There's Always Tomorrow Blu-ray Review

"There's Always Tomorrow" arrives on Blu-ray in a 1080p resolution with an MPEG-4 AVC encoding, and it maintains its original 1.85:1 widescreen theatrical aspect ratio. The black-and-white cinematography, masterfully handled by Russell Metty, shines through in this transfer. The picture boasts crisp and clear details with minimal print damage, rendering fine details in textures, shadows, and costumes notably well. Barbara Stanwyck's white furs, for example, display impressive fine detail and rich black levels. The contrast and grayscale are handled excellently, contributing to a vivid presentation that fans will find largely satisfying.

While the transfer excels in visual clarity and fluidity, occasional grain presence can be somewhat distracting. This graininess, however, does offer an authentic film-like feel to the experience. Some viewers might notice the transfer appears overly processed at times, but this doesn't detract significantly from the overall positive attributes and striking visual quality. The source material's cleanliness stands out, yielding a seamless and immersive visual experience despite the lack of apparent restorative work. This Blu-ray presentation ensures that the eloquent cinematography and detailed textures of the film are preserved splendidly for both new audiences and long-time fans of Douglas Sirk's work.

The Blu-ray release of "There's Always Tomorrow" showcases an exemplary DTS HD Master Audio 2.0 mono soundtrack. The lossless audio is a significant enhancement for this dialogue-driven film, ensuring that every verbal exchange remains the focal point. Dialogue is consistently crisp, clear, and comprehensible, with a particular focus on Stanwyck's rich and resonant vocal performance. The track skillfully balances the pivotal conversations while preserving the integrity of the original soundscape, free from any noticeable distortions such as crackle, hiss, or warps.

Complementing the dialogue are the natural sound elements that play a crucial role in shaping the film's atmosphere. Notably, the sounds of California downpours add depth and shading to various scenes, enriching the emotional landscape without overpowering it. The dynamic range adeptly handles both the sweeping highs and the somber lows of Heinz Roemfeld and Herman Stein's evocative score, maintaining an unaltered auditory experience devoid of any age-related artifacts like pops or hisses. The optional English subtitles provide an additional layer of accessibility without detracting from the immersive audio experience.

This audio track, though not playing a leading role in the film’s storytelling, proves its mettle when required, delivering a flawless auditory presentation that enhances the viewing experience of "There's Always Tomorrow".

The Blu-ray edition of "There's Always Tomorrow" offers a satisfying array of extras that cater to enthusiasts of classic cinema. The standout feature is the insightful audio commentary by film historian Samm Deighan, who dives deep into the subversive themes, the societal context of America at the time, and the initial critical reception of Sirk’s films. Deighan provides an engaging analysis of the film, making connections to the dark side of American domesticity and emphasizing the realism and strong performances. The extras also include a collection of trailers, highlighting other notable works from Kino Lorber, adding further value to the disc.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Film Historian Samm Deighan: In-depth exploration of themes, societal context, critical reception, and film analysis.
• There's Always Tomorrow Theatrical Trailer: Original promotion.
• The Great Man's Lady: Trailer.
• The Bride Wore Boots: Trailer.
• Witness to Murder: Trailer.
• All I Desire: Trailer.
• The Tarnished Angels: Trailer.
• Murder, He Says: Trailer.

"There's Always Tomorrow" is a compelling Douglas Sirk-directed drama that delves into the subtle complexities of mid-life crises within the framework of 1950s Americana. The film's narrative poignantly inverts traditional familial melodramas by focusing on Clifford Groves (Fred MacMurray), a toy manufacturer grappling with a sense of unfulfillment despite his outwardly perfect life. When an unexpected visit from his former love, Norma Vale (Barbara Stanwyck), reignites dormant feelings, the nuanced performances by MacMurray and Stanwyck add layers of emotional depth. Their on-screen chemistry imbues the film with a sincerity that elevates it above conventional melodrama, while Joan Bennett provides a robust counterbalance as Clifford's wife.

Technically, the film is superbly crafted, featuring lush black-and-white cinematography by Russell Metty, which contributes to a dream-like state underpinned by expertly framed characters and shadows. The effect lends a darker tone that enhances the film's thematic gravitas. Complementing this visual artistry are the impeccable sets and costumes designed by Alexander Golitzen, Eric Orbom, and Jay A. Morley Jr., respectively, which add period authenticity and visual splendor to the production. Heinz Roemheld and Herman Stein’s music score further enriches the film, adding an elegant undercurrent without overwhelming the story.

The screenplay by Bernard C. Schoenfeld, adapted from an Ursula Parrott story, tackles universal themes such as emotional neglect and yearning with sophistication and an undercurrent similar to Schoenfeld's work on "The Twilight Zone." Sirk’s direction ensures a measured, thoughtful exploration of these mature themes. The collaboration with editor William Morgan results in a film that maintains an engaging rhythm and pace. Overall, "There's Always Tomorrow" stands out for its intelligent film-making, resonant performances, and timeless exploration of human vulnerability and suburban life's deceptively smooth facade.

Review:

There's Always Tomorrow delivers a masterful performance by Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray, who manage to create a dynamic and cohesive on-screen chemistry that is equally compelling and emotionally resonant. Their interactions are filled with a vitality that brings depth to their characters, contributing significantly to the film’s dramatic achievement. The stunning black and white cinematography further elevates the production, giving it a dream-like aesthetic that aligns perfectly with the storyline and its darker, more complex themes.

Director Douglas Sirk has done an exceptional job in revitalizing familiar material by injecting it with sensitivity, warmth, and insight, transforming a well-worn triangle tale into something fresh and engaging. The portrayals by Stanwyck, MacMurray, and Joan Bennett are natural and affecting, offering a slice-of-life family drama that values honesty over melodrama. This balance allows the film to resonate more authentically with its audience, making it a standout example of Hollywood's Golden Age storytelling.

The Blu-ray presentation from Kino is exemplary, providing solid video and audio transfers that enhance the viewer's experience of this long-neglected gem. A stellar commentary track accompanies the visual and audio quality, adding further value to the package. Altogether, this Blu-ray edition of There's Always Tomorrow is a must-have, offering first-rate sound and video quality for film enthusiasts looking to add a classic piece of Hollywood history to their collection. Highly recommended.