The Mask Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded 1.67:1 aspect ratio presentation for "The Mask" demonstrates excellent restoration efforts, refreshing and revitalizing the classic film effectively. The black and white cinematography is balanced superbly, with clear delineation during shadow plays. Grain retention is fine and filmic, maintaining superb detail in facial textures and dramatic shadow sequences. The cleaner source material, albeit with some minor damage in 3-D scenes, complements the film's distinct aesthetic. The disc also includes a 2-D presentation for versatility.

The newly restored 35mm elements bolster the 1.66:1 1080p transfer, yielding jaw-dropping results that stand among the best 3D restorations, comparable to revered classics like the original "House of Wax." The black and white presentation remains vivid and rich in 2D format, with inky blacks and sharp greyscale producing fantastic clarity. Print condition is near immaculate, with only occasional speckles, while in-camera optical effects exhibit a softness characteristic of the source elements rather than the transfer process.

In 3D, "The Mask" shines distinctly with its engaging depth and dramatic leap-out-of-the-screen effects. The presentation maintains stability with minimal crosstalk or ghosting, making it a visually stunning experience. The film's gimmick of donning 3D glasses seamlessly integrates with the narrative, transitioning into immersive 3D as the mask is worn. Overall, this transfer nails its three-dimensional presentation, showcasing remarkable technical prowess in restoring and enhancing this cinematic classic.

The audio presentation of "The Mask" Blu-ray utilizes both DTS-HD MA 5.1 and DTS-HD MA 2.0 tracks, each with distinct characteristics that enhance the viewing experience. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix primarily focuses on frontal design, providing clear dialogue, although it occasionally faces issues with crispy highs. The soundtrack is aggressive and convincingly supports the narrative, particularly elevating the dream sequences. Although the soundscape in these sequences lacks optimal dynamism, the added depth and strange atmospherics contribute significantly to the overall ambience.

The DTS-HD MA 2.0 track also delivers an impressive auditory experience, maintaining a strong balance between dialogue and the surreal nightmare sequences. The Electro-Magic Sound recording process amplifies the psychedelic effects, ensuring crisp and clean dialogue amidst the film's rich sound design by Louis Applebaum. This mix offers plenty of atmospheric presence, albeit with somewhat erratic imaging coordinates to the film's unpredictable visuals. Notably, despite the immersive surround quality of the 5.1 track, the 2.0 mix stands out for its more intense and authentic feel during the nightmare scenes, making it a compelling option for viewers seeking a rawer audio experience.

The Blu Ray extras for "The Mask" provide an insightful and comprehensive look into both the film's creation and the broader world of early 3D cinema. This collection includes a range of engaging content, from informative commentaries to fascinating documentaries, making it a must-watch for cinephiles and fans of classic 3D films alike. The selection of extras is well-curated, with each piece adding substantial value by delving into diverse aspects of filmmaking and historical contexts. Standouts include an in-depth commentary by film historian Jason Pichonsky, who enriches the viewer's experience with detailed production anecdotes, and a poignant documentary on Julian Roffman, the pioneering figure behind the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film historian Jason Pichonsky provides scene-specific insight.
• Julian Roffman: The Man Behind the Mask: Overview of the director’s career and impact.
• Anaglyph 3-D Sequences: Original 3D presentation with Red/Cyan glasses required.
• One Night in Hell: A 3D short film with impressive depth and visual effects.
• Abstract Experiment in Kodachrome: Early experimentation with shape, color, and depth.
• Montage Sequences: Prohibition-era montages showcasing early 3D work.
• The Life and Death of 9413: Silent-era short with notable 3D effects.
• TV Spots: Includes two versions focusing on horror elements.
• Theatrical Trailer: Emphasizes the film’s 3D aspect.
• Reissue Trailer: Focuses on the story’s horrific elements.

"The Mask" from 1961, directed by Julian Roffman, is a unique blend of surreal horror and procedural drama. The film alternates between uneventful, expository sequences and haunting forays into a nightmare realm, facilitated by a cursed mask. These excursions into the eerie and unsettling are the film’s highlight, comprising a precious 14 minutes of macabre visuals and disturbing sounds. However, these moments harshly contrast with the rest of the narrative, which features dry, static passages exploring the concerns of psychiatrist Dr. Allan Barnes (Paul Stevens) and his patients.

The narrative centers around Dr. Barnes, whose patient, Michael Radin (Martin Lavut), is driven to madness and suicide by an ancient tribal mask. Radin's tale of possession and murder remains unconvincing until Dr. Barnes experiences the mask's power firsthand. This revelation sets the doctor on a dangerous path of experimentation that blurs reality and delusion. The story evolves into a psychological thriller, propped up by its innovative use of 3D technology and a bizarre soundtrack, making it visually arresting and audibly disconcerting.

Technically, "The Mask" excels through the impressive efforts of Herbert S. Alpert's cinematography and Slavko Vorkapich's 3D photography, with Stephen Timar’s editing and Willard Goodman's sound design contributing significantly to the film's chilling atmosphere. The 3D presentation is essential to fully experience the terrifying nightmare sequences that could otherwise seem like strange performance art in 2D. Thus, the film’s impact heavily depends on the viewer's appreciation of 3D technology. Despite its narrative shortcomings, "The Mask" stands out as an immersive experience bolstered by its pioneering visual and auditory effects, securing its place as a noteworthy artifact in Canadian horror cinema.

The Mask arrives on Blu-ray with a strong audiovisual presentation that significantly enhances the viewing experience. The film’s nightmarish 3D sequences are masterfully restored, providing an intense and visually arresting spectacle. The soundtrack complements these sequences well, delivering a disorienting auditory experience that aligns perfectly with the surreal visual narrative. Although the story may not be groundbreaking, the technical execution of the Blu-ray elevates the film, making it an engaging watch.

Kino Lorber and 3-D Film Archive have meticulously worked to ensure that both the 2D and 3D versions offer a high-quality experience. The array of special features included offers valuable insights into the film’s production and historical context, adding depth to the overall package. Despite varying opinions on its narrative strength, the documentary-style features and expert commentary provide fascinating content for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

The Mask is short, but it feels long, creating a desire to remain behind the titular nightmare machine, where the production shows the most creativity and comfort. Performances are professionally executed, but director Julian Roffman isn't one to build pace, leaving the feature deflated before it works up the nerve to return to evil. It's an uneven film, but for the mask sequences alone, it's worth a look. Moreover, with the remarkable restoration and thoughtful extras, this Blu-ray release is highly recommended for both its technical prowess and its historical significance in cinematic 3D.