The Vanquished Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "The Vanquished" on Blu Ray showcases a combination of sourced materials that yield a varied visual experience. Aimed at achieving an optimal display, the 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode (1.37:1 aspect ratio) was derived from three different sources: the original 35mm camera negative, a release print from the 1953 Venice Film Festival, and another release print from the Experimental Cinematography Center. This blend has rendered a high-definition transfer with sharp definition and detailed resolution. However, the transition between different sources is noticeable, with occasional scenes appearing blurrier. Overall, the elements are commendably preserved, with lifelike textures prominently displayed. Fine details such as signage text, bottle labels, individual bricks, and clothing stitches are crisply outlined.

Contrast is generally well-balanced, ensuring excellent visibility with clean whites and deep blacks that maintain shadow details and provide dimensionality. The presentation, however, is not without flaws; pockets of noise, haloing, and banding are present intermittently. While filtering is applied to give the image a clean, semi-soft look with diminished grain, it somewhat dilutes fine detail, making parts of the film appear more like a television program than a cinematic experience. Instances of film damage are present with varying intensity including flicker, debris, and rough reel changes. Minor scratches, vertical lines, and bits of dirt are visible but generally forgivable given the overall enhanced visual clarity achieved in this Blu Ray edition.

Despite the mixed consistency due to its assembly from multiple sources, "The Vanquished" offers a visually engaging HD presentation. The restoration efforts have succeeded in preserving the film's intrinsic textures to a considerable extent while delivering balanced contrast and vivid detail to enhance the viewing experience for both aficionados and new viewers alike.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "The Vanquished" offers two uncompressed PCM 2.0 mono listening options: the Italian dub and the original mix of Italian, French, and English. The 2.0 LPCM mix provides the essentials without overt distortion, maintaining a minimal hiss level. Dubbed dialogue is thick but expressive, supporting the film's intended emotional highs and lows, while the scoring and soundtrack are seamlessly integrated into the overall flow. Though the mix exhibits limited power, it aptly retains the intended stillness and passionate character interactions.

The original mix, displayed theatrically in 1953, delivers a strong, engaging presence and a broad, welcoming soundfield filled with appreciable background activity. Giovanni Fusco's jazz-like music showcases distinct clarity and orchestration separation. However, the lossless mix suffers from a largely flat dynamic range and limited acoustics. Vocals often appear distant and hollow, accompanied by occasional hissing and noise. Furthermore, some sequences sound bright and jarring, with an altogether missing low-end, rendering the audio presentation somewhat flatter and slightly dull. Overall, despite some notable strengths in dialogue clarity and soundtrack integration, the audio presentation has room for improvement in dynamic range and low-frequency response.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Vanquished" offer a fascinating dive into the film's historical and cultural backdrop, making them essential for enthusiasts of post-war Italian cinema. The collection is highlighted by interviews with key figures like actor Franco Interlenghi and writer/producer Turi Vasile, providing rich context about the production, Michelangelo Antonioni's directorial style, and the Italian cinematic landscape of the time. Notably, the inclusion of original and uncut versions of segments from the film adds substantial academic and historical value. Presented in various formats and lengths, the extras augment the main feature by offering deeper insights into its creation and legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

Booklet: Contains an eight-page essay by Stefania Parigi.

Interview with Franco Interlenghi: Discusses working with Antonioni and provides anecdotes about filming and career insights.

Interview with Turi Vasile: Explores post-war Italian cinema and discusses the film’s industry impact.

Tentato Suicidio: Segment from "Love in the City" directed by Antonioni.

Italy: Original, uncut version of the controversial middle segment from 1953.

Released in 1953, "The Vanquished" presents a formative stage in Michelangelo Antonioni’s directorial evolution, exploring the pervasive violence and moral decay among post-war youth. The film utilizes three distinct narratives set in Italy, France, and England to dissect the callousness gripping society. Antonioni focuses not on providing answers but on scrutinizing the passionate yet ill-fated characters involved in these violent acts. The result is a prescient work that condemns thrill-killing and media exploitation, though it demands profound patience from the viewer due to its methodical pacing.

Despite some degree of studio interference—due to controversial content, changes were enforced, including the addition of a didactic prologue and epilogue—the film’s core messages remain impactful. The stories examine young adults from different European countries: Italy, driven by apathy and fleeing societal norms; France, inspired by the empty promises of notoriety; and England's chilling tale, which follows an aspiring poet whose detachment and delusions reflect troubling societal realities. Peter Reynolds offers a gripping performance as Aubrey in the London segment, illustrating the disturbing ease with which notoriety can be obtained through sensationalism.

Antonioni’s direction, alongside Enzo Serafin’s cinematography, employs a neo-realist approach with lyrical undertones, creating a visually compelling yet tragic narrative. "The Vanquished" remains both accessible and profound, offering an existential portrait that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. The film suggests that societal structures contribute significantly to youth violence, positioning not only the criminals but the entire social fabric as 'vanquished'. Through its rhythmic storytelling and genuine portrayal of existential despair, the film maintains its relevance and impact more than six decades after its initial release.

"The Vanquished" is Michelangelo Antonioni's provocative exploration of youth violence, seamlessly blended with a contemplative examination of modern bourgeoisie culture. Presented in a lyrical, neo-realist style that remains evocative and poignant, this film continues to captivate audiences despite historical studio interference. The narrative constructs an existential portrait of society, showcasing Antonioni's skill in balancing sensational melodrama with deeper thematic reflections.

The Blu-ray release from Raro Video offers commendable visual and audio quality. The picture is surprisingly sharp, effectively capturing the film's moody aesthetic and detailed cinematography. The audio presentation is robust, ensuring that the movie's dialogues and soundtrack enhance the viewing experience. Supplementary materials add significant value, providing intriguing insights and enriching the overall package. This release is not just for Antonioni enthusiasts but also serves as a recommended watch for those new to his work.

Although the presentation suffers, "The Vanquished" remains potent for Antonioni purists, while the addition of the full, uncut Italy sequence supplies an interesting look at the censorship of the day.