The Rose Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The Rose" is presented in a 1080p transfer supervised by the film's original director of photography, Vilmos Zsigmond. This restoration was executed in 4K resolution from the original 35mm camera negative. The meticulous restoration process, involving MTI's DRS and Digital Vision's Phoenix, successfully removed instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and noise. This care ensures a faithful presentation, retaining the grain and authenticity that reflect the film's original cinematographic intentions.

The transfer maintains superb detail and clarity even in sequences where light and shadows were intentionally manipulated for atmospheric effect. The vibrancy of the color scheme is particularly impressive; it showcases a range of beautifully saturated colors that provide near-Technicolor quality in some scenes. Although the film's heavy use of filters results in fluctuating grain levels, these do not detract from the overall viewing experience and seem intrinsic to its raw, natural aesthetic. Details like Bette Midler's makeup and costumes are rendered with exceptional clarity, especially during concert scenes where the intensity of performance is visually emphasized. Deep black levels are solid, with fine shadow delineation preventing any issues of crush.

The precision of this Criterion release is evident with no visible digital sharpening or post-processing artifacts. The image stability is outstanding throughout, with no scratches, debris, or stains evident. Despite some fluctuating grain which might be disconcerting to some viewers, overall, this release represents a definitive video presentation of "The Rose". Film aficionados will find Criterion's painstaking restoration process maintains the integrity and gritty charm of the original film while delivering an unparalleled home viewing experience.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "The Rose" features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, derived from the original 35 mm magnetic tracks of the 70 mm 6 track mix. The overall separation and depth of the audio are excellent, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. One will immediately notice the dynamic range during concert footage, which bursts with vibrancy and detail, capturing the raw vitality and emotional depth of midler's powerful voice, the blistering guitars, and driving bass and percussion.

Dialogue is generally clean, stable, and easy to follow, although there are moments where it can be slightly overpowered by the more active elements of the sound mix, particularly during intense concert scenes. Surround accents are faint yet effective throughout the dramatic sequences, primarily focusing on a solid front-based soundscape but with enough stereo separation to broaden the auditory experience. Additionally, crowd noises effectively bleed into the rear channels, adding to the concert's atmosphere. Crucially, during non-musical sequences, elements such as revving car engines and whirring helicopter blades heighten the track’s overall immersive impact.

No pops, cracks, hiss, or audio dropouts were detected during this review, underscoring the quality and attention to detail in this potent mix. The intent was to retain much of the original film’s energetic and raw essence while ensuring that the dialogue and finer details remained clear and comprehendible. The result is an excellent auditory experience that remains faithful to the film’s original sound design.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The Rose" features an impressive array of extras that significantly enrich the viewer's experience. The supplemental package includes thoughtful interviews with key figures such as Bette Midler and director Mark Rydell, providing unique insights into the film’s production journey, character development, and technical execution. Cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond's discussion with John Bailey delves into the intricate lighting techniques and decision to shoot on 35mm film, highlighting the organic quality that digital formats often lack. Additionally, archival footage from NBC's Today Show captures behind-the-scenes moments during filming. Each feature is presented in high definition, ensuring clarity and immersion.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Mark Rydell reminisces about the film’s creation, casting, and live concert sequences.
• Interview: Bette Midler: Midler candidly reflects on her experiences and challenges during production.
• Interview: Mark Rydell: A conversation exploring Rydell’s involvement and directorial approach.
• Interview: Vilmos Zsigmond: An in-depth discussion on cinematography and 1970's film techniques.
• Vintage TV Clip from NBC's Today: An interview with Rydell and Midler during a Manhattan shoot.
• Vintage TV Clip: Bette Midler and Gene Shalit: Midler's extensive interview on her role and personal insights.
• Leaflet: An illustrated leaflet featuring an essay by music critic Paula Mejia.

Mark Rydell's "The Rose" (1979), starring Bette Midler, presents a gritty, unvarnished look at the life of rock singer Mary Rose Foster, a character loosely inspired by Janis Joplin. Through Midler's towering performance, the film explores the tumultuous clash between artistic passion and commercial exploitation. Midler's Rose is a dazzling performer on stage, yet off-stage she spirals into emotional fragility, grappling with insecurity and the pressures dumped upon her by her exploitative manager, played astutely by Alan Bates. The narrative dives deep into the chaotic, often destructive realities of the music industry.

The film's cinematography, led by Vilmos Zsigmond and supported by a team of eminent cinematographers, including László Kovács and Owen Roizman, enriches the viewing experience. The concert scenes are powerfully captured with vibrant intensity and realistic fervor, thanks to the multi-camera setups that bring the live performances to life. These sequences are punctuated by Midler’s live vocals which add an authentic touch to the depiction of her character’s exhaustive rise and fall. Coupled with Paul Rothchild’s superb soundtrack production, which invokes the era’s musical essence, the film achieves an ideal blend of auditory and visual excellence.

While portraying a descent into substance abuse and professional disillusionment, Rydell ensures these darker moments are counterbalanced with brief glimpses of humanity and humor. Scenes such as Rose’s stint at a drag show inject levity amongst the overarching melancholy. Supporting performances by Frederic Forrest and Harry Dean Stanton lend depth and texture to the cast, helping to underscore the protagonist’s troubled journey. In its relentless portrayal of a performer’s private agony amidst public adulation, “The Rose” stands out for its raw emotional impact and bold narrative choices.

Mark Rydell’s "The Rose" is an evocative period film that encapsulates the frenetic and chaotic world of 1960s rock-'n'-roll. Originally conceived as a Janis Joplin biopic, the film offers a searing portrayal of a popular rock singer’s tumultuous journey to find balance amidst a life marked by excess and personal turmoil. Vilmos Zsigmond, the director of photography, has meticulously supervised the 4K restoration, resulting in an astonishingly vivid visual presentation on Blu-ray that deeply enhances the viewing experience.

Bette Midler delivers a powerhouse performance, fully embodying the shattered yet resilient spirit of the protagonist. The movie does not hold back in its raw and unflinching exploration of a wild and tortured soul, presented with a visceral intensity that hits like a freight train. Midler’s musical and dramatic prowess is complemented by an excellent cast whose stellar performances add depth to this emotionally charged narrative. The Criterion's Blu-ray release does justice to the film with strong video and audio transfers that elevate the already gripping story.

Criterion's Blu-ray supplement array is impressive, providing an immersive viewing experience. The high-quality video and audio transport viewers back to the psychedelic 1960s, enriching scenes with striking clarity and immersive sound. In conclusion, "The Rose" is not just a film but an experience—a poignant, electrifying portrayal of a rock icon battling her inner demons. This Blu-ray edition comes highly recommended for its meticulous restoration and comprehensive supplemental features, making it a must-have for both film lovers and rock-'n'-roll enthusiasts.