The Train Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, The Train's 1080p transfer on Blu-ray, courtesy of Kino Lorber, offers a compelling visual experience with a few minor caveats. The master utilized for this release, also sourced for the previous Twilight Time releases, uses a variety of best available elements, resulting in occasional wear and tear. However, the blemishes are minimal and do not distract from the overall viewing quality. Depth, clarity, and delineation are excellent, showcasing the beautiful black and white photography with a natural film grain presence that enhances the film's aesthetic.

The grading of this master is commendable, especially managing darker footage with impressive strength. Black levels are deep and inky, presenting a great shadowy grayscale that provides the image with an outstanding sense of depth and dimension. Notably, there is no significant black crush, a common issue in older masters. Density levels are high, although some fluctuations in stability do appear, likely to be improved with a modern 4K update. There are no problematic digital corrections, and the image stability remains robust throughout. Despite its minor flaws, this Blu-ray transfer is a significant upgrade from the old MGM non-anamorphic DVD and is a satisfying offering for classic film enthusiasts. Note: This is a Region-A locked Blu-ray release requiring a compatible player for access.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "The Train" features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono mix, which marks an improvement over prior DTS-HD MA 1.0 releases. While the dialog remains clean and clear, conveying Maurice Jarre's score with precision, the overall sound could benefit from more nuanced dynamics. Despite some exchanges sounding a bit 'thin' and 'flat' due to aging, the lossless audio track maintains clarity and consistency.

Dynamic unevenness is occasionally apparent, but the mix effectively distributes sound across the channels. Action sequences retain their impactful nature, notably during crucial moments such as the train's final chugging. Although rebalancing could enhance the audio experience, this current mix already offers a coherent listening experience that preserves the film’s sonic integrity.

The Blu-ray release of "The Train" offers an impressive selection of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience. It includes archival and new audio commentaries that delve deep into the film’s production, visual style, and historical context. John Frankenheimer’s commentary richly details the making of the film, while the new commentary by Steve Mitchell and Jay Rubin provides an insightful analysis of cinematic techniques and explosions. The Maurice Jarre isolated score in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 remains a highlight, underscoring the film’s dramatic tension. Supplementary materials such as a Trailers From Hell episode featuring Brian Trenchard-Smith and vintage trailers add nostalgic value, while an 8-page booklet by Julie Kirgo provides scholarly perspectives. Notably, the absence of the Julie Kirgo and Nick Redman commentary from previous releases is offset by these engaging additions.

Extras included in this disc:

• John Frankenheimer Commentary: In-depth discussion on film production.
• Steve Mitchell & Jay Rubin Commentary: Analysis of visual style and techniques.
• Maurice Jarre Isolated Score: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 presentation.
• Trailers From Hell: Episode with Brian Trenchard-Smith.
• Vintage Trailer: Original U.S. trailer.
• Booklet: 8-page illustrated booklet with essay by Julie Kirgo.

John Frankenheimer's The Train (1964) is a monumental cinematic experience embodying the marriage of high-stakes drama and intricate detail. Set against the backdrop of the final days of World War II, the film narrates the gripping story of French Resistance fighter Paul Labiche (Burt Lancaster), tasked with derailing a Nazi plot to steal invaluable French art treasures. While historically, the narrative diverges from actual events—where the art was never successfully relocated by train—the film captivates with its fictive journey. Labiche’s transformation from indifferent railway worker to fervent protector of France’s cultural heritage is compellingly depicted. The clash with Colonel Franz von Waldheim (Paul Scofield) offers an intense cat-and-mouse dynamic, enriched by layered performances and palpable tension.

Cinematically, The Train is anchored in its impressive production values, evoking a striking sense of authenticity. Frankenheimer's direction ensures that each set piece—from massive air raid sequences shot in Gargenville to intimate character interactions—breathes life into this war epic. Deep focus long takes, particularly scenes where Labiche negotiates for Papa Boule’s life amidst the bustling train yard, provide depth and a visceral sense of place. This visual commitment extends to the real railway equipment used, eschewing replicas for genuine period pieces, further immersing viewers in the wartime environment.

Despite some melodramatic moments, especially stemming from Michel Simon's miscast Papa Boule and occasional theatricality in Lancaster’s monologues, the film maintains robust pacing. Frankenheimer's craftsmanship in blending action with reflective pauses on art and humanity ensures a balanced narrative flow. Labiche's intricate and improvisational efforts to deceive German forces sustain the film’s suspense, leading to powerful confrontations that underscore the human cost of war. Von Waldheim’s evolving portrayal from an art-loving Nazi to a ruthless adversary adds psychological depth, enhancing the existential weight carried by the film’s historical and fictional stakes alike.

John Frankenheimer's "The Train" is a technically impressive film that captures the essence of practical effects and stunt work in an era that predates digital filmmaking. The film’s authenticity, achieved through real, tangible stunts, is noteworthy and adds layers of excitement that modern CGI often fails to replicate. While the narrative bends historical accuracy and embraces certain Hollywood cliches, it remains an engrossing action/war film with captivating performances, particularly from Burt Lancaster who showcases his usual charisma and intensity.

Kino Lorber Studio Classics' Blu-ray release of "The Train" utilizes an older master sourced from MGM, resulting in a solid video transfer. The image quality may exhibit some flaws due to its age, but overall it remains serviceable and does justice to the film’s gritty, realistic aesthetic. The audio track has seen minor improvements, enhancing the viewing experience without making dramatic leaps from previous releases. Importantly, most bonus features from the Twilight Time editions have been retained, although notably, there's a change in the commentary track. Enthusiasts may appreciate the new insights provided.

In conclusion, while "The Train" may not reach the heights of a war masterpiece, it is undeniably entertaining and a testament to Frankenheimer's directorial prowess. This Kino Lorber release, though not a definitive upgrade over previous versions, ensures that this action-packed, historically-inspired film stays accessible to audiences. For newcomers or those who missed earlier editions, this Blu-ray is highly recommended. Long-time owners might not find sufficient reasons for another purchase unless they are avid collectors or completest fans of the film.