America as Seen by a Frenchman Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video's Blu-ray presentation of "America as Seen by a Frenchman" showcases a commendable transfer, maintaining the film's original 2.35:1 aspect ratio. With an AVC encoded 1080p transfer, this release offers a finely balanced blend of organic filmic attributes and contemporary clarity. Despite a few variations in color temperature where some scenes lean toward blues, the overall result is an authentic and vibrant palette. Grain is present but only marginally gritty against certain skies, resolving coherently throughout the viewing experience.

Detail levels are generally commendable, bolstered by Reichenbach’s preference for midrange and wide shots, which effectively highlight the scenic potential of the widescreen format. Notably, there are no significant damages or issues in the source element, aside from the minor color variations. The high-definition master prepared by Les Films du Jeudi and delivered to Arrow Films ensures that the presentation remains true to the film's original visual style while offering modern enhancements for today's viewers.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray of "America as Seen by a Frenchman" features a meticulously preserved LPCM Mono track in the original French, supplemented by optional English subtitles. While primarily consisting of narration, the soundtrack intriguingly incorporates occasional snippets of English heard in the background, adding to the documentary's unique ambiance. A standout aspect of the audio is Michel Legrand's carnival-like score, which endeavors to evoke a sense of Americana through instruments such as banjos.

Legrand’s composition, although distinct from the lush and romantic styles he would become famous for in later works, blends intriguingly with the documentary's visuals, offering a quirky yet immersive auditory experience. The score's diverse instrumental choices and Legrand's experimental approach convey a whimsical feel that seems fitfully successful in capturing the American spirit. The preservation quality of the track ensures clarity and fidelity throughout, allowing the score's eccentricities to shine without overshadowing the narrative content.

The Blu-ray extras for "America as Seen by a Frenchman" provide a rich and engaging exploration of the film and its creator. Philip Kemp's feature, "F for French," offers an illuminating appreciation of François Reichenbach, positioning him within the nouvelle vague despite his documentary focus. Kemp's analysis includes captivating excerpts from Reichenbach's other works, providing a comprehensive understanding of the director's style and influence. Additionally, the disc features a concise image gallery and a meticulously designed insert booklet from Arrow, enhancing the overall value of the package.

Extras included in this disc:

• F for French: An insightful appreciation of François Reichenbach by Philip Kemp.
• Image Gallery: A brief visual presentation.
• Insert Booklet: Arrow’s traditionally well-crafted booklet.

"America as Seen by a Frenchman" is a fascinating documentary crafted by Fran�ois Reichenbach that delves into the idiosyncrasies of American life during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The film begins in San Francisco, capturing iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, but it soon expands to cover a broader spectrum of American landscapes and eccentric activities. Reichenbach's journey unfolds as a patchwork quilt, interweaving various odd and engaging scenes that range from tourists snapping incessant photos with Kodaks to Americans deep in the throes of unique cultural rituals.

The documentary excels in presenting a series of unconventional vignettes, each of which offers a snapshot of American society through an outsider’s lens. The narration is both cheeky and insightful, making pointed observations that resonate even today. Notably, Reichenbach had a knack for capturing moments where the American Dream, as depicted by advertisements, collides with the lived realities of everyday people—a juxtaposition that still holds relevance. His previous work in American advertising gives these segments an authentic touch, creatively contrasting staged glamour with genuine experience.

Particularly striking are scenes that revolve around community activities, which might bring a bittersweet sense of nostalgia for today's viewers, especially those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. From pioneer reenactments and neighborhood barbecues to vintage shots of Disneyland, the film underscores how communal joy and quirky practices contribute to the American fabric. Among the more gonzo activities captured are a bucking bronco rodeo with convict participants, a woman with her horse diving into a pool, and a whimsical convention of twins. These elements combine to create an engaging portrait of America that is as entertaining as it is enlightening.

"America as Seen by a Frenchman" on Blu-ray offers a unique and engaging glimpse into American life through the lens of French director Francois Reichenbach, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in the French New Wave. The film, shot in vibrant detail during the late fifties and early sixties, traverses various facets of American culture from fairs and parades to sporting events. Reichenbach's documentary style, described as "spontaneous expressionism," provides an authentic, albeit sometimes whimsical, view that can feel akin to an eclectic compilation of home movies. There’s a certain nostalgia embedded in this footage that may particularly resonate with Baby Boomers.

The technical presentation of the Blu-ray is notably solid. The film's transfer preserves its original 16mm charm while offering commendable clarity and color fidelity. While some of the source material shows its age, the overall restoration is handled adeptly, giving viewers a clear window into American society of that era. Bonus features enrich the disc further; especially noteworthy is a discussion by film historian Philip Kemp who contextualizes Reichenbach's career and his contributions to cinema. The commentary helps to elevate viewers' understanding of the director’s unique vision and the socio-cultural observations he meticulously captured.

Don't expect much if anything in "America as Seen by a Frenchman" to impart any grave meaning, but that said, certain inferences about late fifties - early sixties American culture can probably inevitably be drawn from some of this footage. This often plays like some odd collection of home movie footage, and it may be somewhat nostalgic for Baby Boomers in particular. Technical merits are generally solid, and "America as Seen by a Frenchman" comes recommended.