The Manchurian Candidate Blu-ray Review

The Manchurian Candidate arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Arrow Video, presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1, and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC in 1080p resolution. The release utilizes the same remastering foundation provided by MGM for their earlier U.S. Blu-ray release, combined with additional picture restoration supervised by Deluxe Restoration in London. This meticulous attention to detail has resulted in the best visual presentation of this classic film to date.

The improvement in detail is notable, from wide panoramic shots to close-ups that reveal intricate skin textures, fine object observation, and even beads of sweat. However, consistent with its cinematic history, there are minor fluctuations and a famously out-of-focus sequence featuring Frank Sinatra that was preserved for its dramatic effect. The black and white cinematography remains impressive, showcasing a rich tonal range from deep blacks to clean, balanced whites. The texture is further enhanced by a perfectly filmic layer of grain, free from excessive DNR application, offering a cinematic feel that respects the film's original aesthetic.

Despite retaining some minor imperfections such as occasional flecks and dirt spots, the overall image stability is excellent. Grain is consistently visible throughout the film, and the lack of problematic sharpening adjustments is commendable. While there is slight room for cosmetic improvements, Arrow Video’s presentation stands out as a significant enhancement over the previous MGM version, making it an invaluable addition to any film aficionado’s collection.

The audio presentation of "The Manchurian Candidate" on this Blu-ray release stands out for its loyalty to the original material. Featuring an LPCM 1.0 mono track, this version preserves the film’s authentic soundscape, unlike the US release's DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 remix. The attempt to remix older classics like this one for six-speaker surround can often result in artificial-sounding dialogue and uneven surround coverage. Instead, the original mono here ensures a more cohesive and natural auditory experience.

Dialogue clarity is a significant strength of this audio presentation, rendered with coherence throughout the track. Despite its limited scope, the dialogue takes precedence and remains stable, albeit with some very light background hiss noticeable around the 01.02.33 mark. This mono track affords other elements such as sporadic gunshots and bustling committee meetings a rich, albeit minimal, resonance that respects the film's vintage nature. The dynamic range, while limited, provides decent depth and intensity without any significant distortions.

Overall, this is an authentic representation of the original audio, with clear and crisp dialogue free from dropouts, pops, or digital distortions. Although it may not provide the immersive surround sound experience typical of modern mixes, it offers a respectful and genuine reproduction of the original soundtrack. This adherence to authenticity makes it a pleasure for purists and fans of the film alike.

The extras included in the Blu-ray release of "The Manchurian Candidate" offer a comprehensive and insightful look into the film and its production. The disc retains much of the material from previous US Blu-ray and MGM DVD releases, which were already quite impressive. Highlights include a Director's Commentary by John Frankenheimer that delves into the intricate production process of the film, alongside an archival interview from 1988 with key figures such as Frankenheimer and Sinatra. The standout new addition is "The Directors: John Frankenheimer," a detailed 59-minute feature that explores Frankenheimer's career through interviews with prominent stars and filmmakers. Other notable extras include interviews with Angela Lansbury and William Friedkin, a theatrical trailer, and a stills gallery. Arrow's packaging is particularly attractive, featuring a reversible cover with alternative artwork and a richly detailed booklet.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director John Frankenheimer discusses the production process.
• The Directors: John Frankenheimer: An archival documentary on Frankenheimer's career.
• John Frankenheimer, Frank Sinatra, and George Axelrod Interview: Discussion on the film's production history.
• Queen of Diamonds: Angela Lansbury: Lansbury discusses controversial moments and directing methods.
• A Little Solitaire: William Friedkin: Friedkin talks about Frankenheimer’s impact and the film's qualities.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• Stills Gallery: Collection of production stills.
• Booklet: Illustrated with interviews, articles, and technical credits.
• Reversible Cover: Featuring original and newly commissioned artwork.

"The Manchurian Candidate" (1962), directed by John Frankenheimer, remains a compelling masterpiece over half a century since its release. This classic thriller, which dives deep into politically-infused conspiracy, was prescient at its time and continues to resonate today. Released during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the film was pulled from distribution shortly after President Kennedy's assassination, only to be rediscovered decades later. The story follows Sergeant Shaw, portrayed with a suitably robotic demeanor by Laurence Harvey, as he returns from the Korean War, decorated as a hero. His commanding officer, Bennett Marco—an intense and dedicated performance by Frank Sinatra—begins to have recurring nightmares, suggesting alternative events behind enemy lines. As Marco investigates, the viewer is drawn into a narrative that is riddled with doubt and paranoia, setting a robust foundation for modern conspiracy thrillers.

The movie's structure stands out due to its careful pseudo-documentary framing, achieved through Lionel Lindon's distinctive cinematography and sharp editing pace. The unusual camerawork lends the film a strikingly contemporary edge while maintaining the visual elegance of classic noir. David Amram's atmospheric soundtrack complements the tense atmosphere of the movie perfectly. The dissection of America's socio-political reality during the late '50s is executed with such precision that it's perplexing the film didn’t alarm contemporary powers—that same political hysteria resonates strongly today. Performances are top-notch across the board: Sinatra abandons his star persona for a more distressed and frantic portrayal; Harvey captivates as the emotionally unstable Shaw; and Angela Lansbury delivers an astonishing performance as Eleanor Shaw Iselin—Shaw’s manipulative mother—that many argue should have garnered her an Oscar.

In sum, "The Manchurian Candidate" is an exercise in taut tension and conspiratorial intrigue. It demands attention with its stunning finale and has rightfully earned its place in the National Film Registry, ensuring its lasting influence on both cinema and socio-political discourse.

The Manchurian Candidate on Blu-ray is an exceptional release that stands out in the pantheon of classic political thrillers. With Arrow Films at the helm, this edition offers superb visual fidelity and a pristine transfer that captures the film's stark, intense visuals with remarkable clarity. The black-and-white cinematography comes to life through meticulous restoration, offering a viewing experience that is both immersive and true to the original presentation. Coupled with the authentic original mono audio, every line of dialogue and nuanced score effectively draws you into its intricate web of intrigue and paranoia.

This Region B-locked Blu-ray disc doesn't just excel in audio-visual quality but also includes a wealth of special features. Fans and newcomers alike will appreciate the comprehensive suite of extras, including all previously available content supplemented with new material that provides deeper insights into the film’s production and enduring legacy. It's immediately apparent that this release surpasses its US counterpart, solidifying its position as the definitive version to own.

The Manchurian Candidate was critically well-received and remains one of the first 100 films selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. It’s a supreme exercise in taut tension and conspiratorial intrigue; a classic political thriller which will keep you guessing throughout.

A great classic finally done justice by Arrow Films.

Arrow Film's unsurprisingly impressive new release - on a Region B-locked disc - sports excellent video and authentic original mono audio, as well as all of the extras that came before, and more, trumping the US counterpart in all three aspects. There's no denying that this is the definitive edition to own, and comes highly recommended.

You can buy The Manchurian Candidate on Blu-ray here.