My Little Chickadee Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "My Little Chickadee" by Kino Lorber offers an astonishing visual experience in 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition, presented in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. This release stands out distinctly due to its meticulous 4K restoration by Universal Pictures, overseen by cinema luminaries Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg. The film’s black levels are profoundly rich, and the print shows no signs of wear or deterioration, marking this as the finest presentation of Mae West's titles thus far. The high-level restoration work involved in the process has ensured that the near-pristine quality of the image allows the film to shine with clarity and vibrant detail.

Captured on 35 mm by cinematographer Joseph Valentine, this edition was scanned from both a nitrate composite fine-grain print and a dupe negative, maintaining a comprehensive 4K resolution throughout. Restorative efforts have been performed with precision, cleaning up frame-by-frame damages while preserving the film’s innate beauty. The natural grain is untouched and complements the detailed textures visible in close-up scenes, such as the instance where Fields hands his card to West, showcasing detailed textures. While diffusion filters and optical transitions inherent to the original style create variations, they are seamlessly integrated into the visual narrative.

The faithful rendition of the 1.37:1 theatrical aspect ratio in 1080p is executed using the AVC codec, resulting in an immaculate image devoid of dust or dirt. Black levels are profoundly deep, contrast has been optimized impeccably, and the grayscale boasts impressive clarity with crisp whites and solid blacks. As someone who might recall viewing subpar television prints or earlier transfers, this version of "My Little Chickadee" will undoubtedly redefine expectations with its stunning visual revival.

The audio presentation of the "My Little Chickadee" Blu-ray is delivered in a DTS-HD Master Audio mono format, demonstrating remarkable clarity across its entire duration. The lossless audio track stands out for its crisp and clear dialogue, allowing for a comprehensive experience free from distractions. The audio encode is expertly executed, ensuring all intricate details of the soundtrack are preserved impeccably. Users will find that there are no noticeable hisses, crackles, warps, pops, or clicks throughout the audio delivery. Additionally, optional English subtitles are available for those who need them.

Coupled with excellent fidelity, this DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono mix adeptly enhances the auditory aspect of this classic film. The dialogue is not only clearly articulated but is also skillfully balanced with Frank Skinner's background score. This careful integration significantly enriches the overall soundscape, weaving together dialogue, music, and effects into a cohesive auditory experience. The sound mix’s proficiency ensures there are no detectable age-related anomalies such as hissing, crackling, or flutter, which is commendable given the film's age.

The extras on the "My Little Chickadee" Blu-ray offer a comprehensive dive into the film's background, especially through the audio commentary by film historians Alexandra Heller-Nicholas and Josh Nelson. The commentary provides an in-depth exploration of Mae West's influence, addressing her contractual demands, such as the prohibition against alcohol on set, and highlighting her unique role as a pioneering auteur. While Nelson and Heller-Nicholas richly examine West's impact and life parallels, they largely overlook other key figures like W.C. Fields, which creates a somewhat skewed narrative for those seeking a balanced retrospective of the film's iconic pairing. Nonetheless, their detailed accounts of censorship battles and West's subversive themes add substantial value. The disc is further complemented by theatrical trailers, offering both nostalgia and insight into the cinematic era.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Film Historians Alexandra Heller-Nicholas and Josh Nelson: In-depth discussion focusing on Mae West.
• My Little Chickadee Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer.
• Kino Trailers: Additional trailers for film releases including "Night After Night," "I’m No Angel," "Belle of the Nineties," "Goin’ to Town," and "Every Day’s a Holiday."

The Blu-Ray release of "My Little Chickadee" offers a captivating 4K restoration, preserving the magic of this classic western comedy originally produced by Lester Cowan and Jack J. Gross. Mae West shines in her role as Flower Belle Lee, injecting her unique charisma into every scene. Her interaction with Cuthbert J. Twillie, played by W.C. Fields, adds an unexpected charm despite their lack of onscreen chemistry. The narrative follows Flower Belle as she navigates scandal and unexpected adventures after marrying the loafer gambler Twillie, bringing forward a delightful mix of humor and intrigue.

The film's production elements significantly enhance its overall appeal. Jack Otterson's art direction pairs beautifully with Vera West's costume design, crafting a visually arresting experience. Frank Skinner's music score introduces a dynamic layer to the storytelling, creating an engaging cinematic rhythm. Joseph A. Valentine's cinematography skillfully captures the nuances of black-and-white photography, further elevating the film's aesthetic charm. Although the collaborative screenplay by West and Fields doesn't fully capitalize on their comedic potential as a duo, director Edward F. Cline succeeds in maintaining a lively pace and rhythm throughout the film.

"My Little Chickadee" presents an intriguing yet mismatched collaboration between two comedic icons. The film allows both Mae West and W.C. Fields to showcase their individual strengths rather than a cohesive partnership. Fields' adept comedic timing contrasts against West's notable screen presence but falters in opportunities for cohesive humor in shared scenes. The storyline brims with potential yet occasionally misses comedic marks, notably in scenes where Mae West could have delivered more impactful humor. Despite these drawbacks, the film remains entertaining and encapsulates the undeniable star power of its lead actors. Their solo performances provide enough charm to warrant viewing, making this Blu-Ray edition a valuable addition for fans of classic cinema.

"My Little Chickadee," a celebrated Mae West film, offers an engaging storytelling experience enriched with charm and wit from start to finish. The latest Blu-ray release boasts a commendable 4K restoration undertaken by Universal, with the notable involvement of cinematic legends Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese. This high-definition transfer is executed with precise attention to detail, noticeably enhancing the visual quality of the film compared to previous home video iterations.

The film, while not exemplary within the comedy genre of its time, remains a cheeky and entertaining piece that showcases the undeniable charisma of its lead stars, Mae West and W.C. Fields. Despite critiques regarding the depth of humor and plot, the film's allure persists, driven predominantly by its lead actors' performances. The Blu-ray release preserves this charm, rendering the visual and auditory elements crisply, which significantly enhances viewer enjoyment and captivates both longstanding admirers and newcomers alike.

In conclusion, "My Little Chickadee" stands as an essential watch for fans of classic cinema. Despite its imperfections, the film's humor and remarkable performances by West and Fields make it a cherished piece. The high-quality Blu-ray transfer enriches the viewing experience, reinforcing its status as a must-have for enthusiasts of vintage films. Highly recommended for anyone who treasures sharp wit and historical cinematic treasures.