I Walk Alone Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of Byron Haskin's "I Walk Alone" is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1, encoded in 1080p with MPEG-4 AVC. Sourced from a new 4K remaster derived from a 35mm safety dupe negative by the Paramount Pictures Archive, the transfer is commendable for its organic appearance. However, density fluctuations are evident and can impair depth and clarity, particularly noticeable on larger screens or projection systems. While the remastering process has avoided problematic degraining and sharpening adjustments, some fluctuations inherent to the source remain.

The transfer shows minimal signs of wear, with only minor flecks and stains present and no significant imperfections. Although some greyscale inconsistencies and minor unsteadiness appear towards the film's conclusion, these do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. Improvements could have been made by optimizing grain exposure and applying basic stability work to enhance fluidity. Overall, despite some unavoidable limitations of the source material, this release offers a respectable visual presentation of a film that was previously difficult to obtain in any home video format.

The Blu-ray release of "I Walk Alone" features a single audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. The audio presentation employs a monaural format that decodes into the center channel, ensuring that dialogue is generally well-recorded and easily discernible. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided for accessibility.

Despite the overall clarity of the dialogue, the stability of the audio is not impeccable. There are segments where minor optimization could have enhanced the listening experience, as occasional light buzzing in the upper register disrupts an otherwise clean track. These blemishes, while noticeable, are only minor distractions and do not significantly detract from the enjoyment of the film. The audio performance remains a consistent listening experience, especially compared to some of the noted inconsistencies in the video quality.

The Blu-ray of "I Walk Alone" provides an enriching experience for fans and film historians alike through its well-curated extras. Notably, the audio commentary by Troy Howarth stands out for its depth and insight. Recorded exclusively for Kino Lorber, Howarth’s commentary is both meticulously researched and engagingly presented, offering a blend of specific observations about the film and broader reflections on film noir. His analysis delves into the characterizations promoted by Byron Haskin, the nature of conflicts between the leads, and the noirish qualities of the cinematography, while also candidly assessing why "I Walk Alone" may not rank amongst the top in its genre. Additionally, a thoughtfully assembled trailer reel provides a snapshot of other notable Kino Lorber catalog releases, enhancing the overall value of this disc.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film historian Troy Howarth provides insights into "I Walk Alone," characterizations, conflicts, and cinematography.
• Trailer Reel: Includes trailers for The Devil’s Disciple, Valdez Is Coming, Cast A Giant Shadow, Elmer Gantry, and The Indian Fighter.

Byron Haskin's 1947 film noir, I Walk Alone, makes its Blu-ray debut courtesy of Kino Lorber and features a new audio commentary by film historian Troy Howarth. In this intriguing narrative, Burt Lancaster's Frankie Madison, recently released from a fourteen-year prison stint for bootlegging, seeks to claim what he believes is his half of the business established with his former partner, Noll Turner (Kirk Douglas). The two men's confrontations are less physical and more verbal, creating an understated tension that occasionally misses the dynamic physicality typically associated with noir films. Nevertheless, the film consistently captivates with its compelling visual style and evocative atmosphere.

Haskin's directorial approach pairs seamlessly with the taut performances of Lancaster and Douglas. Lancaster excels in portraying the straightforward decency of Frankie, a man seeking redemption and justice within legal bounds, while Douglas masterfully conveys the charm and underlying duplicity of Noll. Wendell Corey, as their mutual friend Dave, adds depth through his portrayal of a conflicted intermediary who quietly orchestrates the betrayal. Lizabeth Scott's Kay Lawrence provides a nuanced love interest whose allegiances evolve as she unravels Dink's scheming nature, enhancing the film's tension and emotional complexity.

The narrative breaks from typical production code restrictions by portraying Frankie as a criminal worthy of redemption rather than as an innocent wronged man. This more nuanced depiction drew some criticism during its release but stands out today for its compassionate stance on Frankie’s character. Hal Wallis and Haskin maximize their smaller budget, delivering a film that feels authentically scaled to its characters' gritty realities. The result is a visually pleasing film that, despite occasional tonal mismatches, effectively harnesses the power dynamics and moral ambiguities central to the noir genre.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "I Walk Alone" brings this long-unavailable film back to the forefront, offering a valuable opportunity for both classic film aficionados and new audiences to appreciate its distinctive features. Directed by Byron Haskin, the film stars the remarkable duo of Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas, whose on-screen interplay, while cautious and somewhat restrained, is nonetheless compelling. The narrative’s exploration of themes like redemption and second chances is embodied poignantly by Lancaster’s character, creating an engaging viewing experience.

Technically, the Blu-ray is sourced from a recent 4K remaster by Paramount Pictures Archive, ensuring a visual presentation that does justice to the film’s original aesthetic. Although not flawless, the video transfer retains the gritty and raw feel that characterizes the genre. The audio commentary included in this release provides valuable insights into the film's production, offering depth and context that enrich the overall experience. The sympathetic portrayal of Lancaster's character as someone deserving of redemption adds emotional resonance to the film, making it more than just a simple crime drama.

Sometimes when you have two very powerful male leads they could cancel each other out, and I think that something along those lines occurs in Byron Haskin's I Walk Alone. Indeed, when Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas are together before the camera it almost feels like they are intentionally trying not to break out of their space so that the other can shine as best as he can. This 'awareness' can be a bit awkward in a genre film that is supposed to look gritty and raw. Still, I Walk Alone is most definitely worth picking up. Kino Lorber's release is sourced from a recent 4K remaster that was prepared by Paramount Pictures Archive. RECOMMENDED.