Now, Voyager Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of Now, Voyager is presented in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, boasting a 1080p transfer. Utilizing a new 4K resolution digital transfer created from the 35mm nitrate original camera negative, and supplemented by scans from a 35mm nitrate fine-grain master held by the Museum of Modern Art, the restoration demonstrates a commitment to preserving the film's visual integrity. Criterion's meticulous restoration work involved extensive manual removal of imperfections such as dirt, scratches, and splices using MTI Film's DRS, while Digital Vision's Phoenix software managed jitter, flicker, and grain, resulting in an impressively clean and stable presentation.

Despite some minor density fluctuations creating slightly softer visuals in select areas, these are minimal and unlikely to detract from the viewing experience. The restored version exhibits impressive depth, clarity, and smoothness synonymous with high-quality makeovers of classic films. The grading is particularly commendable, producing solid blacks, stable whites, and a nuanced gray scale that enriches the overall image quality. The high level of detail brings out the richness in set designs, costume textures, and facial features in close-ups, enhancing the film's lush cinematography.

Grain structure is preserved, contributing to a film-like texture that complements Sol Polito's exquisite cinematography. Contrast levels are excellent, with deep black levels and stable whites delivering a well-balanced and detailed picture. Shadow delineation is effective, ensuring that darker scenes maintain their integrity without sacrificing detail. Barring a few stray hairs, the source material remains pristine, devoid of nicks or scratches. Criterion's rendition of Now, Voyager on Blu-ray is a superior transfer that celebrates the film’s legacy while meeting the high expectations of modern audiences.

The Blu-ray release of "Now, Voyager" features an English LPCM 1.0 audio track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. Remarkably, the standard audio presentation maintains an impressive clarity, having been remastered from the original 35 mm nitrate fine-grain material. This results in a track that is free from common aging issues such as hiss, pops, or crackles. The audio is consistently clean, crisp, and stable, providing a balanced listening experience. While dynamic intensity might be somewhat limited due to the film's age, there are notable moments of dynamic contrast that enhance the overall audio quality.

A highlight of the track is its ability to showcase Max Steiner's Oscar-winning score with exceptional fidelity. The LPCM transfer handles the highs and lows of the score's strings and winds, filling the room with rich, immersive sound without any distortion. Dialogue comes through clearly, ensuring all spoken parts are easily comprehended. Although it tends towards a quieter overall mix, this high-quality transfer successfully integrates subtle audio elements to form a cohesive and well-balanced auditory experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Now, Voyager" includes an array of impressive supplemental materials that provide rich historical context and critical insights into the film. Highlights include archival interviews, such as Bette Davis on The Dick Cavett Show and Paul Henreid's brief appearance discussing key scenes. Film critic Farran Smith Nehme sheds light on the production and thematic elements, while costume historian Larry McQueen delves into the fashion intricacies designed by Orry-Kelly. Additionally, film scholar Jeff Smith offers a deep dive into Max Steiner's iconic score through selected scene commentary. Vintage radio adaptations and a comprehensive 32-page booklet further enrich this robust package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Bette Davis: Archival episode of The Dick Cavett Show discussing her career.
• Paul Henreid: Archival interview focusing on his classic films.
• Farah Smith Nehme: Critic's analysis of the film's production and impact.
• Larry McQueen: Interview on costume design by Orry-Kelly.
• Selected-Scene Commentary: Analysis of Max Steiner’s score.
• Lux Radio Theatre: Two radio adaptations of the film.
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet with essays and credits.

Irving Rapper's 1942 cinematic gem, Now, Voyager, featuring Bette Davis in a career-defining role, exquisitely showcases the journey of Charlotte Vale. Davis masterfully embodies four variations of her character, portraying her evolution from a nervous, repressed woman under her mother's thumb to a confident, self-assured individual. Gladys Cooper delivers a formidable performance as Mrs. Henry Vale, whose oppressive control drives Charlotte to a near mental breakdown. Charlotte's renaissance begins under the care of psychiatrist Dr. Jaquith (Claude Rains) at a luxurious sanatorium, and further crystallizes during an emotionally charged cruise where she meets Jerry Durrance (Paul Henreid), sparking a complex yet spiritually profound love affair.

The film's narrative adheres to the conventions of early 1940s Hollywood melodramas, complete with high society gatherings and intimate, highly scripted dialogue that at times can feel contrived. However, key moments reveal deeper authenticity, such as the iconic cigarette-lighting scene between Davis and Henreid, which serves as an emblematic romantic gesture that transcends the film's era. The narrative, adapted from Olive Higgins Prouty's novel, might occasionally dip into melodramatic clichés, yet Davis' nuanced performance and the delicate direction save it from becoming predictably stale.

Technically, Now, Voyager stands out for its elegant direction and Max Steiner's Oscar-winning score, whose hauntingly beautiful love theme became an instant classic. The performances are bolstered by literate scripting and Irving Rapper's meticulous direction. Davis' transformation is both physical and emotional, underscoring her bravery to de-glam in a period where such moves were rare among leading actresses. Supported brilliantly by Henreid and Rains, Davis delivers one of her most iconic roles, earning her an Oscar nomination. Gladys Cooper's portrayal of Mrs. Vale provides palpable tension against Davis' Charlotte, resulting in some of the film's richest scenes. This Criterion release ensures the film's legacy with a visually stunning and faithful presentation, preserving its historic and emotional impact for modern audiences.

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of "Now, Voyager" is an essential addition for fans of classic cinema, marking a celebration of Bette Davis' iconic performance and the film’s prestigious legacy. Sourced from a pristine new 4K restoration, the high-definition upgrade ensures that every frame of this timeless melodrama is presented with remarkable clarity. While the film itself may not appeal to all contemporary tastes due to its perceived sterility and occasional reliance on clichés, it remains a compelling narrative of self-discovery and forbidden love, driven by an engrossing storyline and Davis’ powerful portrayal.

The technical aspects of the Blu-ray presentation are top-notch. The superior video and audio transfers highlight the meticulous work of costume designer Orry-Kelly and the importance of costumes in character development, as emphasized by costume historian Larry McQueen. Orry-Kelly’s collaboration with Davis is given due recognition in the supplementary materials, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the creative processes behind the scenes. The iconic Max Steiner score and signature cigarette-lighting motif are rendered with exceptional fidelity, ensuring that the film's dramatic and emotional beats are preserved for modern audiences.

In conclusion, Criterion's release of "Now, Voyager" is a must-own for aficionados of classic romantic dramas and Bette Davis enthusiasts. The comprehensive high-quality supplements enhance the viewing experience, providing valuable insights into the film’s production and historical context. While the film may not resonate with everyone, it stands as a beautifully restored piece of cinema history that deserves a place on any collector's shelf. Highly recommended for fans of the genre.