Deadfall Blu-ray Review

Signal One Entertainment's Blu-ray release of "Deadfall" delivers a respectable 1080p/AVC-encoded presentation in the original 1.66:1 aspect ratio, stemming from a robust master. While the source material is not specified to be from a new remaster, the high definition transfer shows substantial detail and a healthy grain texture that complements the film's vintage aesthetic. Close-ups particularly stand out with excellent clarity, though medium and long shots demonstrate some variability, especially under challenging lighting conditions. Despite occasional inconsistencies, daylight scenes are rendered impressively, making this the best visual presentation the film has seen to date.

The color scheme is adeptly managed, with rich wood browns predominating and occasional vibrant hues providing visual interest. Black levels are robust and offer commendable shadow detail, although some nuances in darker scenes could be optimized further with a future 4K remaster. The balance of the image remains generally stable, aside from minor issues such as negligible black crush and a few tiny white flecks, but there are no major distractions like debris or frame damage. Density and saturation are adequate but leave room for enhancement, ensuring that the current rendition remains untainted by digital over-processing.

Ultimately, "Deadfall" on Blu-ray affords viewers a mostly satisfying high-definition experience. The film's visual quality may not achieve demo disc heights due to its inherent limitations, yet it presents significant improvements over previous editions. For enthusiasts of the era or the film itself, this release offers the best available viewing experience while hinting at potential gains that a 4K overhaul could bring in the future.

The Blu-ray release of "Deadfall" features a Linear PCM 1.0 Mono track that performs admirably within its limitations, delivering a polished and clean audio experience. While the track might occasionally feel slightly muted, it effectively delivers clear dialogue with well-maintained prioritization, alongside subtle yet effective car and street sounds, and crashing waves, generating an immersive atmosphere despite its single-channel constraints. The standout element of the audio presentation is undeniably John Barry's Bond-esque score, which is both striking and elevates the film's overall auditory experience. This soundtrack, although not crafted to accompany specific scenes, significantly enhances the film's mood.

The lossless LPCM 1.0 track provided is impressive in terms of clarity, depth, balance, and stability. Fox likely performed a full audio remix when preparing the master for this Blu-ray edition, ensuring high-quality sound without audio dropouts or digital distortions. The result is an exceptional track that showcases the audio capabilities within the film’s mono framework. Optional English SDH subtitles are available for the main feature, catering to viewers requiring accessible content. Given the excellent execution of this audio track, it is hard to envisage any notable improvements from a future 4K remastering effort.

The Blu-ray release of "Deadfall" is complemented by a robust array of extras that enrich the viewing experience. The assortment includes in-depth interviews such as "From the Page to the Screen" with film historian Chris Poggiali, who offers insights into the film's production history and adaptation nuances. "The John Barry Touch: The Music of a Master" featurette provides a deep dive into the celebrated composer's work on the film, incorporating clips from various interviews. Additionally, an isolated score track allows viewers to appreciate Barry's music in its full glory. The collection is enhanced with a gallery of promotional stills, the original trailer, and a 20-page illustrated booklet by film historian Christopher Bray, offering a critical perspective on the movie.

Extras included in this disc:

• From the Page to the Screen: An interview with Chris Poggiali discussing the film's production and themes.
• The John Barry Touch: The Music of a Master: Featurette on John Barry's legacy and score.
• Isolated Score: Presented as LPCM 2.0.
• Stills Gallery: Collection of original promotional materials.
• Trailer: Original Deadfall trailer.
• Booklet: 20-page illustrated essay by Christopher Bray.

Bryan Forbes' Deadfall (1968) is an intriguing fusion of crime caper and film noir that strays from the typical genre conventions of its time. Adapted from Desmond Cory's verbose 1965 novel, the film stars Michael Caine as Henry Clarke, a renowned burglar recovering from alcohol abuse in a sanatorium. He is approached by the enigmatic Fe (Giovanna Ralli) and her husband Moreau (Eric Portman) for a heist involving an expensive jewelry collection. The narrative weaves a complex web as Henry falls for Fe, unaware of the convoluted dynamics between the trio, particularly Moreau’s concealed sexuality. The backdrop of an opulent Spanish setting adds a significant atmospheric layer, enhancing the film's unique noir vibe.

Caine delivers a powerful performance defined by authentic machismo, rivaling his other noted roles like in Get Carter. Ralli’s portrayal of Fe is compelling, making her character convincingly multifaceted and engaging. Portman's nuanced delivery adds to the film’s refined quality, which distinguishes it from contemporary crime dramas. Forbes’ direction ensures that the psychological and emotional stakes in Deadfall are as compelling as the heist itself, gradually shifting focus from the crime element to deeper character exploration. This approach provides the film with an intriguing, contemporary edge that has aged well over the decades.

Adding to its allure, John Barry's score is nothing short of perfection, imbuing scenes with an evocative musical layer that complements Forbes’ stylish direction. Shirley Bassey's rendition of "My Love Has Two Faces" will delight older viewers and listeners. Ultimately, Deadfall emerges as an elegant, subversive tale deserving a reevaluation and greater appreciation for its unique place within the crime genre canon.

Signal One Entertainment's UK Blu-ray release of "Deadfall" offers a commendable video presentation, showcasing this lesser-known Michael Caine film with notable clarity, apart from some sporadically softer scenes. The transfer, derived from a well-maintained Fox master, provides the best visual experience this film is likely to receive on home media. The audio quality also stands out, ensuring immersion and clarity, albeit without significant surround dynamics. The array of extras included enhances the overall package, making it an appealing purchase for collectors and fans of Caine's work.

While "Deadfall" may not enjoy universal acclaim, its unique style sets it apart from the typical spy genre films of its era. This distinction is particularly appreciated given the saturation of James Bond imitators and vibrant spy comedies that emerged during the late '60s and early '70s. The film's deliberate deviation from these trends allows it to carve out a distinct identity, making it a memorable cinematic experience despite any narrative imperfections. The visual and auditory fidelity provided by this Blu-ray release serves to highlight its stylistic uniqueness.

In conclusion, whilst neither Caine nor Forbes can quite bring it all together into a perfected whole, it's certainly a memorable ride. Signal One's UK Blu-ray release of "Deadfall" presents the little-known Michael Caine curio with a very impressive video presentation that, intermittent softer sequences notwithstanding, is easily the best we'll ever see from this film, as well as a solid audio presentation and a decent collection of extras to round out the package. Those interested should certainly check it out, particularly if you like decent Caine movies.