Hawaii Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Hawaii" presents the film with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. This restoration offers a noticeable improvement over previous standard definition releases, showcasing a significant enhancement in depth and clarity. However, despite these gains, the presentation is not without its faults. The transfer shows remnants of its older master, evident through occasional image instability and sharpening artifacts. Colors appear most vibrant in brightly lit outdoor sequences, with blues and greens standing out, but an overall muted palette somewhat diminishes the potential impact of the film's lush cinematography. Skin tones often veer towards a brownish hue, and grain is present but can be coarser in darker scenes, giving a somewhat muddy look.

Detail varies widely throughout the film; close-ups in natural light reveal impressive textures in actors' faces and costumes, while wider shots tend to soften, particularly in darker or nighttime sequences. Grain fluctuation is also noted, contributing to issues like shadow detail anemia and murky contrast in some scenes. Technical elements such as process photography during sea storm sequences and moments of softness further underscore the aged nature of the source material. While black levels are predominantly deep, issues with crush and pale shadows occasionally arise. Additionally, there are minor physical blemishes including scratches and nicks on the film elements.

Despite these imperfections, the Blu-ray's video presentation is an improvement over past iterations, offering fans of the film the best version available to date. However, it's clear that a more comprehensive restoration could further elevate the visual experience, doing greater justice to Russell Harlan's Academy Award-nominated cinematography.

The audio presentation of "Hawaii" on Blu-Ray provides a solid DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track, offering a robust yet constrained auditory experience. While the mono setup doesn't allow for a wide soundstage, it compensates with surprising depth and power, especially notable in Elmer Bernstein's monumental score. Although the isolated score track in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 offers more width for Bernstein’s sweeping orchestral arrangements, it doesn't account for dialogue or other sound effects, presenting a rather limited enhancement for such a grand composition. The occasional boxy quality in sound effects, particularly noticeable during storm scenes, slightly detracts from the overall experience but doesn't severely impact it.

Notable highlights include the clarity and fullness of sound effects, such as the thunder and crashing waves during the storm at sea. The ambient noises of island life and human chatter are well-rendered, though not entirely immersive. Bernstein's score remains a standout feature, enhancing dramatic moments with its lush, expansive orchestration typical of old Hollywood. This mono mix ensures dialogue is consistently clear and free from imperfections like cracks, pops, or hiss. Even during louder sequences, it maintains a rich, non-tinny quality, earning high marks for its overall audio fidelity. The inclusion of a more dynamic soundtrack option or a bass-enhancing feature would have elevated the epic score and immersive potential of this film's auditory experience.

The Blu Ray of "Hawaii" offers an impressive collection of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience, catering to both casual viewers and die-hard completists. Notably, it includes two versions of the film: the Theatrical Cut (161 minutes) and the Roadshow Cut (189 minutes). Despite the Roadshow Cut being in standard definition with considerable visual issues such as aliasing and pixellation, it presents invaluable excised material and additional audio by Elmer Bernstein. The inclusion of an Isolated Score Track in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 for both versions adds an extra layer of appreciation for the film’s music. The supplementary content, including trailers and an essay booklet by Julie Kirgo, enrich the user’s understanding and enjoyment of this classic film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Original Theatrical Trailer: High-definition trailer for the film.
• MGM 90th Anniversary Trailer: Additional celebratory trailer.
• Isolated Score Track: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix available for both film versions.
• Original Roadshow Version: Standard definition version with significant visual issues.

The Blu-ray release of "Hawaii" brings new life to George Roy Hill's 1966 adaptation of James Michener's novel, albeit with some content concessions. The film, set in the early 1800s, chronicles the cultural clash between native Hawaiians and fervent Christian missionaries led by Max von Sydow's Abner Hale and Julie Andrews' Jerusha. Their tumultuous, often touching journey unfolds in an exquisitely recreated historical setting, bolstered by stunning performances from the entire cast. Andrews' portrayal embodies purity and emotional depth, while von Sydow delivers a multifaceted character study, navigating Hale's stern façade and occasional lapses into martinet tendencies. The narrative carefully orchestrates moments of tension and catharsis, particularly when Richard Harris' Rafer Hoxworth re-enters Jerusha's life, bringing palpable emotional complexity to the story.

Despite focusing on just a fraction of Michener's sprawling epic, the screenplay by Daniel Taradash and Dalton Trumbo successfully condenses the source material's essence. However, the general release version lacks some developmental scenes present in the roadshow cut, notably Hale's pre-marriage angst. This trimmed adaptation arguably hinders character depth yet maintains the film's engrossing arc. The richly detailed island setting serves as both backdrop and character, with indigenous actors adding authenticity to visceral cultural observations. While some scenes might feel prolonged, they collectively build toward a poignant examination of Hale’s evolving worldview and Jerusha's consistent empathy.

Technically, the Blu-ray presents the general release version in 1080p high definition, whereas the roadshow version remains in standard definition due to element quality. Though purists may bemoan the decision, this offering provides a comprehensive glimpse into "Hawaii" in varied visual fidelities. The film's evocative score by Elmer Bernstein and the encompassing cinematography elevate it as a substantial historical drama that retains its vibrancy and thematic resonance decades later. "Hawaii" is a meticulously crafted film that stands as a vivid, emotionally potent exploration of cultural and ideological conflict.

Twilight Time’s Blu-ray edition of "Hawaii" presents a film that remains a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of cultural clashes and the passage of time. Directed with assurance by George Roy Hill, this epic drama features an exceptional cast and powerful character development, bringing to life the tension between the Calvinist missionaries and the native Hawaiians. While not flawless, this release is the most complete package available to date, combining both the standard and roadshow versions of the film. The inclusion of Elmer Bernstein’s sublime score as an isolated track further enriches the cinematic experience.

The visual quality is a mixed bag; while some scenes look stunning, there are noticeable inconsistencies such as occasional color bleeding and a lack of sharp detail and contrast typically expected from Twilight Time releases. The roadshow version's video quality, presented in standard definition and non-anamorphic format, falls below acceptable standards, yet its historical significance and additional footage add depth to the story. Despite these shortcomings, this dual version presentation makes it an intriguing package for aficionados and historians alike.

In conclusion, "Hawaii" is a compelling narrative that elicits genuine emotional responses. Its depth is brought out through its nuanced characters and the stark clash of cultural ideologies. Though neither the video nor audio reaches top-notch quality, this Blu-ray release is still the best rendition of the film available today. With careful direction, a stellar cast, and a memorable score by Elmer Bernstein, "Hawaii" transcends its technical limitations. Highly recommended with some reservations, this edition stands out as a valuable addition to any film enthusiast's collection.