Paris Blues Blu-ray Review

Paris Blues receives an impressive Blu-ray presentation from Kino Lorber Studio Classics, utilizing an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.67:1 aspect ratio. Directed by Martin Ritt, with DP Christian Matras behind the camera, the film's high definition transfer is generally commendable. The blacks are deep and well-defined, while the gray scale is well modulated, naturally capturing the film's monochromatic palette. The texture of the grain adds a nostalgic visual quality, though there are slight variations, especially noticeable in some outdoor scenes possibly shot by a second unit. Depth is often excellent in these exterior shots, providing engaging glimpses of a bustling Parisian cityscape. Close-ups deliver impressive fine detail and texture - like in one memorable scene where a lacy camisole worn by Woodward looks particularly vivid. Minor anomalies such as a quasi-flicker around the edges occur but do not significantly detract from the overall viewing experience.

The 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 encoded transfer further accentuates this black-and-white film’s charm by retaining age-revealing elements without making them distracting. Facial features and textures, especially during pivotal scenes like the Battle Royal between Louie Armstrong and Ram, are captured with commendable clarity. While interiors—or soundstage-created scenes—may lack some sharpness, they contribute a unique vintage atmosphere that serves the film's narrative. Contrast remains robust with strong, inky blacks that maintain detail within shadows. The white balance is accurately rendered; whites appear crisp without being overexposed, providing a well-balanced grayscale range from the lightest whites to the deepest blacks.

Overall, while not perfect, this Blu-ray transfer offers 'Paris Blues' a significant visual upgrade, capturing its timeless essence with a high-definition fidelity that respects its original cinematographic aesthetic.

The Blu-Ray presentation of "Paris Blues" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono mix that is commendable for its era, capturing Duke Ellington’s Oscar-nominated brass-inflected score with impressive clarity and fullness. The mix ensures that dialogue is reproduced cleanly and clearly, whether characters are engaged in quiet conversations or energetic jazz battles. While there may be minor reservations among audiophiles concerning the lower end, the overall listening experience remains highly satisfactory.

Ellington's contribution to the film is particularly well-highlighted in this lossless audio format. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix delivers a broad dynamic range, maintaining a consistent tone throughout without sounding flat or echo-y. The balance between dialogue, subtle sound effects, and the musical score is effectively maintained, ensuring each element receives appropriate prominence. Notably, the absence of scratches or hisses enhances the clarity and immersion of the soundscape. This mix exemplifies a meticulous understanding of its core elements and excels in portraying them authentically.

The Blu-ray release of "Paris Blues" offers a compelling array of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience for both cinephiles and casual audiences. Featuring a range of interviews, archival materials, and engaging commentaries, the extras provide invaluable insights into the film's production and historical context. The restored promotional trailer is presented in high definition, showcasing the quality of restoration work. Additionally, the expert audio commentary gives a deep dive into the film’s intricate layers, from its musical score to its socio-political themes. Each extra is meticulously crafted to ensure it complements the main feature efficiently.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Expert analysis and insights on various aspects of the film.
• Interview with Cast and Crew: In-depth discussions with key personnel.
• Restored Trailer: High-definition promotional trailer.
• Archival Footage: Rare behind-the-scenes clips and promotional material.
• Photo Gallery: A collection of stills from the movie and production.

"Paris Blues" offers a compelling and nuanced portrayal of expatriate jazz musicians in Paris. The film stands out in director Martin Ritt's oeuvre for its understated treatment of racism and its exploration of the transient lives of artists striving to find their place. Set against the backdrop of smoky Parisian jazz clubs, the story revolves around Ram Bowen (Paul Newman) and Eddie Cook (Sidney Poitier), who navigate the challenges of their craft while confronting societal and personal issues. Ram, portrayed as both a dedicated musician and a complex character with flawed relationships, embodies the archetypal tortured artist. His interactions with Connie (Diahann Carroll) and Lillian (Joanne Woodward) push both him and Eddie to question their priorities, juxtaposing artistic ambition against romantic and personal fulfillment.

Ritt artfully captures the film's jazz ethos through live performances and a score by Duke Ellington, infusing authenticity into the story. The character dynamics are enriched by Louis Armstrong's exuberant portrayal of Wild Man Moore, adding layers of musical credibility. As Ram dreams of bigger stages and Eddie finds solace in Europe's more tolerant atmosphere, their budding romances with Connie and Lillian foreground themes of racial tension and the elusive American Dream. Despite the film's marketing as a romance, "Paris Blues" delves deeper into the complexities of identity, ambition, and the sacrifices artists make for their craft.

The film's candid depiction of jazz culture, from the ardent fanbase to the darker elements of drug use, paints a vivid yet idealized picture of Parisian life. Subplots, such as the internal struggles of Ram's guitarist René Bernard (André Luguet) with addiction, underscore the entwined nature of genius and vulnerability. Rich in thematic content and atmospheric details, "Paris Blues" is a tribute to both the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence and the human connections that challenge and inspire along the way.

Paris Blues" on Blu-ray presents a film that intriguingly occupies a niche in the careers of its A-list cast and crew, demanding a revisit from enthusiasts and cinephiles. The movie, featuring universally commendable performances by Paul Newman and Sidney Poitier, captures the essence of a transformative period in jazz music. The narrative thrives on strong character arcs and compelling dialogue, though it can sometimes lean heavily on exposition. Nevertheless, these elements are balanced by thematic richness that gives depth to the characters' journeys.

The Blu-ray format does justice to the film with its solid technical merits. The image quality maintains an authentic visual appeal, enhancing the Parisian backdrop that plays a crucial role in the story's ambiance. The sound design, punctuated by Duke Ellington's evocative score, delivers an authentic auditory experience, even if jazz had evolved beyond Ellington's style by the time of the film's release in 1961. This fidelity to period music adds a layer of authenticity that is likely to be appreciated by jazz aficionados.

In conclusion, "Paris Blues" is an oddly recondite film that merits more recognition than it has historically received. It is not without flaws, as some conventional elements might detract from its otherwise forward-thinking atmosphere. However, the exceptional acting and the iconic jazz score lend it significant appeal. The Blu-ray release ensures a quality viewing experience and is thus recommended for fans and those with an interest in jazz history. This one is worth a look.