Episode #1.1 Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Episode #1.1" stands as a testament to Warner Archive Collection's reputation for delivering top-tier visual quality for catalog titles. Sourced from a meticulous 4K scan of the original camera negative, the film is brought to life with stunning clarity and fidelity. Shot on Kodak Eastmancolor film, the vividness of the 2.35:1 Panavision aspect ratio is fully preserved in this remarkable 1080p transfer. Utilizing the AVC codec, the color reproduction is exceptional, with warm, well-saturated hues that enhance the visual appeal from scene to scene. The result is a vibrant presentation where every frame is packed with era-specific details, from urban exteriors to stylish outfits designed by Edith Head.

The video transfer highlights the film's aesthetic, delivering a clean and consistent image with a natural grain structure that reinforces its vintage charm. The encoding on this disc boasts a high bitrate, ensuring a smooth and film-like presentation throughout its duration. Unlike many transfers, the Metrocolor hues remain balanced and true, avoiding any undue push towards the red spectrum, which is crucial given the film's rich wardrobe budget visible in every costume change. The application of contrast is expertly managed, providing an image that is not only appealing but also entirely faithful to the filmmakers' original intent. This edition serves both as an impeccable restoration and a fitting Blu-ray debut for collectors and fans alike.

The audio presentation of "Episode #1.1" on Blu-ray showcases a carefully crafted DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mix that aligns well with the original one-channel sound of the film. This audio track admirably emphasizes the crispness of the dialogue, though it often cedes prominence to the exuberant score by Johnny Williams—indeed, that John Williams—as it complements the film’s narrative with forethought. While the depth achieved is moderate, it remains fitting for a production focused mainly on overlapping indoor exchanges, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining authenticity without unnecessary embellishments.

The integrity of the audio track is commendable, displaying a polished synchrony of dialogue, music, and sound effects without any auditory distractions like hiss or crackle. Noteworthy is a subtle enhancement around the 70-minute point where certain lines, possibly redubbed with superior equipment, stand out for their clarity. This only enhances an already reliable mix, ensuring that the soundscape is bolstered without diverging from its mono roots.

Additionally, the inclusion of perfectly synced English (SDH) subtitles ensures accessibility and further audience engagement. These subtitles fit neatly within the 2.35:1 frame and mark a departure from previous styles by adopting a more visually pleasing format, thus enhancing the viewing experience. Overall, the audio presentation remains faithful to its origins while benefiting from modern refinements.

The Blu-ray extras for "Episode #1.1" offer a succinct yet insightful glimpse into the film's production, catering both to passionate cinephiles and casual viewers. Although limited in quantity, these additions enrich the home viewing experience, compensating for the modest selection with quality content. Notably, the Edith Head Featurette provides a historical context and engages the audience in the intricate world of costume design as exemplified by Natalie Wood's wardrobe. This feature, though dated, is both quaint and insightful, celebrating Edith Head's artistic prowess. Furthermore, the Theatrical Trailer reflects the lively and dynamic essence of the film itself, serving as both a nostalgic artifact and an effective marketing tool.

Extras included in this disc:

• Edith Head Featurette: Highlights costume designs by Edith Head, modeled by Natalie Wood, with film clips.
• Theatrical Trailer: Captures the film's vibrant spirit in a promotional piece.

Arthur Hiller's "Penelope" aspires to be a captivating screwball comedy, featuring Natalie Wood as the charming yet kleptomaniac protagonist. Despite its promising concept and appealing lead, the film inadvertently stumbles, failing to maintain the zany pacing needed to elevate the narrative into the realm of classic 1930s screwball epics. Set amidst the 1960s Manhattan backdrop, the movie benefits from its strong location photography and an impressive wardrobe by Edith Head, enriching Wood’s portrayal with visual splendor. The plot unfolds with Penelope, bored with her workaholic banker husband, robbing his bank out of sheer restlessness and confessing her crimes to her infatuated psychiatrist (Dick Shawn), who reluctantly aids her.

While the film boasts fine performances from a stellar cast including Peter Falk as the diligent detective, some elements have not aged well, notably Jonathan Winters' appearance as a lecherous professor. The screenplay by George Wells begins on a high note with thrilling heist sequences but subsequently loses momentum, drifting into a predictable and less engaging showcase of Wood's varied costumes rather than deepening her character's quirky antics. Scenes of past heists introduce flashbacks that lack differentiation, with Wood appearing ageless regardless of supposedly different time frames.

Despite its shortcomings, "Penelope" offers a glimpse into both the evolving cinematic landscape at the close of the Hays Code era and Natalie Wood's enduring appeal, even in comedy that struggles to find its comedic rhythm. The supporting cast manages brief shining moments amidst uneven storytelling, with Falk's entertaining detective work being a standout. Fortunately, Warner Archives' pristine Blu-ray release restores the movie's audiovisual quality, complete with a 4K-sourced restoration and lossless audio, presenting "Penelope" as a viable pick for longstanding fans and intrigued first-time viewers alike.

Arthur Hiller's "Penelope" is a charming echo of classic screwball comedies, spinning the tale of a kleptomaniac entangled in her own mischief. While the storyline may waver in its comedic intentions, the mid-1960s New York City setting provides a visually appealing backdrop that enhances the film's nostalgic charm. The cast, with their spirited performances, attempts to elevate somewhat weak material, delivering an entertaining experience for those fond of vintage cinema.

The Warner Archive Collection Blu-ray release of "Penelope" offers an impressive visual presentation, sourced from a 4K restoration that captures the vibrant essence of the film's mid-century style. Despite some elements not aging gracefully, the superior audio-visual quality provides a delightfully immersive experience. The Blu-ray may lack extensive bonus features; however, the pristine quality of the main feature compensates for this shortcoming for aficionados of the leading lady and the era.

In conclusion, "Penelope" is a lightweight and enjoyable film that resonates with fans of classic cinema, particularly those captivated by its leading star. Though the narrative occasionally struggles to maintain comedic balance, the Blu-ray release is highly commendable for its outstanding restoration and visual fidelity, making it a worthwhile addition for collectors and newcomers alike.