San Francisco Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "San Francisco" showcases a remarkable 1080p transfer that stems from a new HD master derived from nitrate preservation elements. The mixture of genres in the film effectively displays its varied locales and moods, ranging from the lively Barbary Coast scenes to the dramatic earthquake and its smoky aftermath. Warner Archive has maintained an impressive layer of natural film grain, resulting in fine detail and commendable depth under optimal lighting. The transfer runs at a high bit rate throughout the film, with negligible dirt or debris, and no excessive digital noise reduction, thus preserving the authenticity of the original material. A few special effects present minor imperfections like harsh outlines and wavering contrast levels, yet these have been left intact, respecting the original visual design rather than artificially upgrading them.

The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer notably enhances clarity and contrast, providing a film-like image with precise grain structure. Age-related damages such as nicks, specks, and scratches are virtually absent, although slight fluctuations in picture quality occur sporadically. Key visual elements like rich blacks, crisp whites, and varied grays bolster depth and detail. Intricate costumes worn by MacDonald, featuring feathers and sequins, are meticulously rendered. Enhanced close-ups bring out the rugged features of Gable, along with MacDonald's smooth complexion and Tracy's reverent appearance. While some rudimentary special effects are more evident due to increased definition, these are minor in light of the superior overall transfer. This Blu-ray release undoubtedly surpasses prior versions and is a significant enhancement worthy of an upgrade.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono mix of "San Francisco" delivers an impressive and satisfying auditory experience, particularly for a film from the 1930s. The dialogue is clean and crisp, background noise is well-managed, and the musical numbers, including Jeanette MacDonald's solos, have a dynamic and full presence. The audio mix truly excels during the third-act earthquake scene, which features remarkable low-end activity that heightens the chaotic atmosphere. This segment stands out as a definitive highlight, showcasing the powerful capabilities of a mono track from this era.

While the film maintains a wide dynamic range that accommodates everything from roaring destruction to operatic highs without any distortion, the opening New Year's Eve sequence does have moments where dialogue becomes slightly obscured by the revelry. However, this is a minor issue in an otherwise flawless track. Optional English (SDH) subtitles enhance accessibility, though there's room for improvement if Warner Archive starts porting existing subtitle tracks for the DVD-era bonus features. The overall fidelity and sound quality affirm why "San Francisco" deservedly won the Oscar for Best Sound Mixing.

The Blu-ray release of "San Francisco" brings forward a notable collection of extras from the 2006 DVD, enhancing the value of the package with a good mix of archival and entertainment material. These extras, while not always film-specific, provide rich context and pleasant diversions, appealing to both film aficionados and casual viewers. Noteworthy content includes an in-depth documentary on Clark Gable, delightful vintage cartoons, insightful TravelTalks shorts, an alternate ending, and a theatrical reissue trailer. The offerings are well-rounded, providing both historical significance and light-hearted entertainment, ensuring a balanced viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Clark Gable: Tall, Dark & Handsome: A 1996 documentary narrated by Liam Neeson, offering an insightful overview of Gable's life and career.
• Classic Cartoon - Bottles: A 1936 animated short with eerie and fantastical elements.
• Cavalcade of San Francisco: A 1940 Technicolor travel short showcasing San Francisco’s landmarks.
• Night Descends on Treasure Island: A FitzPatrick Traveltalks short documenting the 1939 Golden Gate Exposition.
• Alternate Ending Sequence: A different, more subdued ending transform the ruins to a restored San Francisco.
• Theatrical Reissue Trailer: The 1948 re-release trailer in high definition.

W. S. Van Dyke's "San Francisco" remains a classic example of Hollywood's Golden Age disaster films, expertly merging melodrama with the era's penchant for spectacular effects. The film stars Clark Gable as Blackie Norton, a rough-around-the-edges nightclub owner, and Jeanette MacDonald as Mary Blake, a talented singer who becomes Blackie's muse and love interest. Their burgeoning relationship is filled with complications, including Blackie's political ambitions and Mary's rapid rise to fame. Spencer Tracy delivers a commendable performance as Father Tim Mullen, Blackie's lifelong friend and moral compass. Reportedly, the on-screen chemistry between Gable and MacDonald belied their off-screen tensions. Nevertheless, both actors infuse their roles with a dynamic intensity that keeps viewers engaged.

The narrative takes a dramatic shift with the arrival of the 1906 earthquake, a sequence that showcases Van Dyke's directorial prowess and stands as a testament to early Hollywood filmmaking innovation. Sets on hydraulic lifts and expertly coordinated miniatures create a breathtaking portrayal of destruction that is remarkably effective even today. The film's fantastical elements are balanced by Anita Loos' screenplay, which crafts a rich tapestry of San Francisco's cultural and moral dichotomies during the early 20th century. Musical numbers by MacDonald demonstrate her operatic range and provide an intriguing contrast to the film's darker themes.

While the film’s grandeur and dramatic twists are compelling, they are not without criticism. Its final act, heavy with religious overtones, can feel like a miscalculated departure from the otherwise engaging storytelling. However, this does not detract significantly from the film’s overall impact. The technical feats achieved in the earthquake sequence alone solidify "San Francisco" as an enduring piece of cinematic history. Warner Archive’s Blu-ray release does justice to the film’s legacy, offering a pristine audio-visual experience that enhances its historical and entertainment value.

W. S. Van Dyke's 1936 classic, San Francisco, is an engaging cinematic experience that seamlessly shifts from romantic drama to musical to full-on disaster film. This multifaceted narrative captures the turbulence of a city in transition, marked by the compelling performances of Clark Gable, Jeanette MacDonald, and Spencer Tracy. The story centers around the complex romance between Gable’s roguish saloon owner and MacDonald’s prim-and-proper singer, enriched by Tracy’s nuanced supporting role. However, it is the dramatic earthquake and subsequent fire sequence that truly stands out, making this film one of Hollywood’s earliest and most memorable disaster spectacles.

The Warner Archive Blu-ray edition is particularly impressive, boasting a new HD master derived from original nitrate elements that showcase the film's visual splendor in high definition. The audio quality is equally commendable, ensuring that both dialogue and the musical interludes are rendered with clarity and depth. Additionally, this release includes all the bonus features from the 2006 DVD edition, offering a wealth of supplementary material that provides deeper insights into the film's production and historical context.

In conclusion, San Francisco is a treasure worth rediscovering, offering sheer entertainment value despite its occasional narrative missteps. The Warner Archive Blu-ray’s outstanding audio/visual presentation and comprehensive extras elevate the home viewing experience, making it highly recommended for both newcomers and devoted fans. This edition captures the essence of a bygone era in cinema while preserving the film's enduring appeal for modern audiences.