An Inspector Calls Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "An Inspector Calls" is presented in an aspect ratio of 1.37:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, delivering a 1080p transfer. This U.S. release is sourced from a digitally restored master previously prepared by StudioCanal in the United Kingdom. Despite minor source limitations, this transfer retains a high level of fidelity. The restoration has effectively managed grain and cleanup without compromising the film's visual integrity. As a result, the film maintains a slightly softer yet convincingly graded appearance, typical of a dated interpositive, with stable blacks and well-balanced grays and whites. Note that small fluctuations in delineation and depth are inherent to the original material.

The transfer boasts excellent contrast, clarity, and nuanced grayscale, producing vibrant and well-balanced visuals. Evident but finely resolved grain enhances the film-like quality, with deep black levels in the gentlemen's dinner jackets providing substantial visual weight. Good shadow delineation prevents any significant crushing, and details such as rain and Edwardian background interiors are rendered with impressive clarity. Costumes and textures are detailed, and close-ups remain sharply defined. There are no noticeable issues with artificial sharpening or boosting, ensuring image stability throughout. Fans of this classic mystery will undoubtedly appreciate the minimal print damage and overall top-notch presentation that revitalizes "An Inspector Calls" for current Blu-ray standards.

The standard audio track on this Blu-ray release of "An Inspector Calls" is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles for the main feature. The restoration process has ensured the audio is stabilized and optimized before transfer to the new master. Although a slight enhancement for a fuller sound in some segments could be beneficial, there are no significant technical issues. The dramatic soundtrack effectively produces dynamic contrasts, and there are no dropouts, distortions, or other similar anomalies.

The DTS-HD Master Audio track delivers clear, well-modulated sound, essential for the dialogue-heavy nature of "An Inspector Calls." While not heavy on atmospheric elements, the track's quality remains undiminished. Pregnant pauses are pristinely clean, and the music score by Francis Chagrin fills the room seamlessly. Crucially, the interplay between actors is consistently easy to comprehend. The track performs superbly without intrusive age-related hiss, pops, or crackle, ensuring distortions do not corrupt the mix. This unobtrusive audio track may appear understated but excels in fulfilling its role effectively.

The Blu-ray release of "An Inspector Calls" features a commendable selection of extras that enhance the viewing experience with insightful and engaging content. Author and film historian David Del Valle delivers a lively audio commentary, enriching listeners with in-depth analysis of J.B. Priestley's play adaptation, differences between the stage and screen versions, and detailed exploration of Alastair Sim's craftsmanship. The interview with actress Jane Wenham provides a delightful personal recount of her experiences working on the film, from interactions with director Guy Hamilton to reflections on British class conflicts. These extras effectively complement the main feature, offering both long-time fans and new viewers valuable context and engaging historical insights.

Extras included in this disc:

Jane Wenham: Recollections of working on "An Inspector Calls" and meeting J.B. Priestley.

Commentary: David Del Valle offers detailed analysis of the film's adaptation and themes.

Trailers: Previews for "The Devil's Disciple," "Force 10 from Navarone," and "Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins."

Guy Hamilton's 1954 film "An Inspector Calls" is a compelling adaptation of J.B. Priestley's classic play, available on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber. This version comes enriched with supplemental features, including an archival interview with actress Jane Wenham and a new audio commentary by David Del Valle, enhancing the already immersive viewing experience. Region-A locked and accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles, the Blu-ray meets rigorous technical standards, presenting the film in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video with DTS-HD Master Audio mono sound.

Set in 1912, the narrative unfolds almost entirely within the opulent home of the Birling family. The Birlings are celebrating the engagement of their daughter Sheila (Eileen Moore) when they are interrupted by Inspector Poole (Alastair Sim), who inquires about a young woman's tragic suicide. What begins as a conventional drawing-room mystery transforms into a biting critique of privileged British society. Through a series of five flashback episodes, the film reveals each family member's connection to the ill-fated Eva Smith. The structure bears semblance to Agatha Christie's mysteries, but its social commentary is unflinchingly direct.

The cinematography by Ted Scaife and the art direction by Joseph Bato provide a visual richness that contrasts sharply with the film's moral ambiguity. Directed with intimacy and precision by Hamilton, "An Inspector Calls" prioritizes character development over flashy techniques, keeping viewers gripped throughout its concise runtime. Alastair Sim delivers a restrained yet magnetic performance as Inspector Poole, although the flashbacks occasionally steal screen time from him. Nonetheless, the supporting cast excels, making this adaptation both an engaging mystery and a potent social allegory.

"An Inspector Calls" is a masterfully crafted film that has garnered longstanding praise for its brilliant structure and intricate narrative. Directed by Guy Hamilton, this adaptation of J.B. Priestley's play not only presents an engaging mystery but also delves into deep, enduring themes. The film's elegance is elevated by the exceptional performance of Alastair Sim, whose portrayal adds significant depth and complexity, displaying a facet of his talent that many may have previously overlooked. The story's climactic twist ensures a gripping viewing experience that stands out within the British mystery genre.

The Blu-ray release by StudioCanal, presented under their Vintage Classics collection, ensures that viewers experience "An Inspector Calls" with outstanding visual and audio quality. The strong video transfer preserves the film's period details and atmospheres, while the clear audio enhances the impactful dialogue and underlying tension. The inclusion of high-quality supplements further enriches this edition, making it not only a restoration of a classic but also an enhanced viewing experience for modern audiences.

I discovered this film only after it was restored and added to StudioCanal's Vintage Classics collection. I think that it is quite special not only because it is brilliantly structured and executed, but also because it reveals a completely different side of Alastair Sim's talent. Obviously, I was late to join those who have tirelessly praised the film over the years, so I hope now that it is finally available in the U.S. it will appear on the radar of other collectors that have been unaware of its existence and they will have the same experience I enjoyed a few years ago. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.