Singin' in the Rain Blu-ray Review

Warner Bros. has delivered a commendable video presentation of "Singin' in the Rain" on Blu-ray, paying significant homage to this classic with a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer that primarily shines. The studio employed a meticulous approach, returning to fine grain masters and leveraging a 4K scan to enhance the film's visual splendor, given that the original negative was unfortunately destroyed in the late 1970s. This endeavor has breathed new life into the film, boasting superb colors, contrast, and clarity. Specifically, vivid primaries and lovely skintones stand out, though occasional over-saturation is noted.

Grain presence is subtle yet consistent, maintaining a filmic authenticity without succumbing to oppressive digital noise reduction. Minor edge halos and a slight waxiness in certain shots hint at artificial sharpening but do not detract significantly from the overall quality. Texture resolution is generally praiseworthy, capturing fabric and facial details effectively. Cleanliness of the image is another notable achievement; print scratches, debris, and other blemishes are virtually non-existent, testament to the thorough restoration process. Importantly, the absence of artifacting and banding upholds the integrity of this cinematic treasure.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this transfer is its handling of colors and black levels. Walter Plunkett's extravagant designs for the flapper-era costumes are rendered with marvelous precision—emerald greens, sunny yellows, and other vibrant hues burst forth with an appeal that is both eye-catching and balanced. Even challenging patterns and textures, such as O’Connor and Kelly’s plaid suits and Charisse’s sequined outfits, retain stability without shimmering. Rich black levels avoid the pitfalls of crush while bright whites remain stable. Background elements, like the essential rain sequences, are detailed with more clarity than ever before. While a slight disparity in scene sharpness can be detected, it is minimal and unobtrusive.

In summary, "Singin' in the Rain" on Blu-ray is an impressive visual experience that honors its classic roots while embracing modern high-definition standards. Although not without minor imperfections, this release sets a high bar for similar restorations, ensuring that this beloved musical looks spectacular for contemporary audiences.

Warner's audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Singin' in the Rain" is a benchmark example of how to treat a musical classic with the respect it deserves. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track harmoniously retains the film's original monoaural sound design, while masterfully allowing Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed's timeless compositions to flourish across a new multi-channel soundscape. The dialogue and song lyrics exhibit a perfect blend of clarity and prioritization, making every vocal performance—from Gene Kelly's suave singing to Debbie Reynolds' silky tone—remarkably clear. The orchestration is astutely represented, with individual instruments such as trumpets, snare drums, and strings precisely articulated to create an immersive aural experience. The rear speakers subtly engage throughout the film but dramatically enhance the music scenes, ensuring a full and satisfying sound experience from start to finish.

The surround fidelity and tonal warmth further enhance the track, providing a high dynamic range that captures both the brightness of highs and the depth of lows. This results in heightened vocal and instrumental intensity; Kelly's delicate tenor and Reynolds' brassy delivery are pristine, and the "Broadway Ballet" segment is captured with both vibrancy and nuance. Background atmospherics like pouring rain and street noise blend seamlessly without overpowering the primary audio elements, adding an extra layer of realism. The early talkie sequences are notably well-balanced, preserving historical authenticity with carefully rendered glitches, without succumbing to distracting imperfections. Dialogue is consistently clear and well-prioritized, enhancing the overall intelligibility and engagement.

For aficionados of Golden Age musicals, Warner's treatment ensures "Singin' in the Rain" sounds almost contemporary, providing an invigorating auditory experience that's as polished as it is faithful to its original charm. This mastering not only showcases the technical prowess behind the production but also underscores an unwavering devotion to preserving this beloved classic.

The 60th Anniversary Ultimate Collector's Edition of "Singin' in the Rain" offers a robust collection of extras that significantly enhances the viewing experience. The package includes a variety of collectible items and an impressive suite of supplementary material that both enthusiasts and casual viewers will appreciate. With notable contributions from various actors, filmmakers, and historians, the audio commentary is a treasure trove of reflections, anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes insights. The inclusion of the new documentary, "Raining on a New Generation," bridges the legacy of the original film with contemporary perspectives. The disc also features valuable historical context through documentaries like "Musicals Great Musicals" and engaging archival content such as outtakes and scoring sessions, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of this cinematic classic.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Features Debbie Reynolds, Donald O'Connor, Stanley Donen, and others.
• Singin' in the Rain: Raining on a New Generation: Contemporary artists discuss the film’s impact.
• Jukebox: Create and listen to playlists of songs from the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original preview of "Singin' in the Rain."
• Musicals Great Musicals: The Arthur Freed Unit at MGM: Documentary on producer Arthur Freed.
• Excerpts from Features Where Songs Originated: Performances from earlier films featuring songs used in "Singin' in the Rain."
• What a Glorious Feeling: The Making of Singin' in the Rain: Behind-the-scenes chronicle.
• You Are My Lucky Star Outtake: Deleted solo performance by Debbie Reynolds.
• Scoring Sessions: Pre-recordings of musical material from the film.
• Gallery: Montage of production photographs.

"Singin' in the Rain" stands as a timeless Hollywood masterpiece, embodying the quintessence of cinematic musicals with its energy, exuberance, and irrefutable charm. A delightful blend of dance, song, and comedy, the film is set against the backdrop of Hollywood's transition from silent films to talkies in the 1920s. Gene Kelly’s performance as Don Lockwood is both impeccable and iconic, showcasing not only his superb dancing skills but also his comedic timing. Debbie Reynolds delivers a captivating performance as Kathy Selden, while Donald O’Connor’s role as Cosmo Brown adds a perfect dose of humor, highlighted by his unforgettable "Make 'Em Laugh" number.

The production values are stellar, reflecting the grandeur of MGM's Arthur Freed unit. Musically, it's a treasure trove, featuring classics like "Good Morning," "You Were Meant for Me," and, of course, the titular "Singin' in the Rain." Kelly’s famous solo performance in the rain remains one of cinema’s most cherished scenes, characterized by its joyful choreography and technical brilliance. The script by Betty Comden and Adolph Green cleverly combines satire with romance, offering a playful yet pointed critique of Hollywood’s early days. Jean Hagen’s portrayal of Lina Lamont is particularly noteworthy for its comedic genius and voice characterization.

Each musical number is masterfully crafted, with "Moses" showcasing unparalleled tap dancing prowess, rivaled only by the famed Nicholas Brothers. The "Broadway Ballet" sequence, featuring Kelly and Cyd Charisse, is a sublime expression of dance and passion. Even 60 years after its release, "Singin' in the Rain" captivates modern audiences with its joyful spirit and dazzling performances. It’s not just entertainment; it’s an experience that leaves one astounded at the sheer talent and artistry of its creators. Aspiring cinephiles and seasoned moviegoers alike will find themselves irresistibly drawn into its timeless allure.

"Singin' in the Rain" debuts on Blu-ray with a remarkable 4K remaster that showcases the film's timeless visual splendor with an impressively detailed, albeit slightly flawed, video presentation. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track enhances the viewing experience, providing an immersive auditory treat. Warner Bros. has complemented the technical aspects with an extensive collection of special features, including an engaging audio commentary, a newly produced high-definition documentary, and numerous enticing extras.

The Ultimate Collector's Edition is undeniably pricey but justifies its cost for die-hard fans. This edition includes a second disc packed with SD bonus content, a beautifully crafted 48-page hardcover book, and a collectible umbrella. For collectors who may find this excessive or for those on a budget, Warner also offers a more affordable single-disc version that maintains the essential elements of this classic.

In conclusion, arguably the greatest movie musical of all time, "Singin' in the Rain" shines brightly once again, capable of winning over new generations of enthusiasts. While not all will appreciate its value, Kelly and Freed's classic is undeniably deserving of a spot in any serious film collection. For both seasoned collectors and casual fans alike, this release stands as an essential addition, ensuring the magic of "Singin' in the Rain" endures.