American Gigolo Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video’s release of "American Gigolo" on Blu-ray presents a stellar upgrade over the previous Paramount edition. The film is shown in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, with the audio options including the original mono, stereo, and 5.1 surround. Meticulously restored using a 4K scan from the original 35mm negatives, the project underwent grading in SDR, HDR10, and Dolby Vision. This technical commitment, overseen by Fotokem and Dragon DI, results in a visual feast approved by Director Paul Schrader himself. The overall palette in this release is notably more vivid and dynamic compared to older versions. Despite a few variances in densities and saturation, the consistency and clarity offered here are unmatched.

The restoration expertly highlights John Bailey’s cinematography with natural grain levels that are predominantly consistent throughout the film, although slightly heavier during the opening credits. The opticals look impressively stable, especially when compared to prior versions that suffered from gate weave and subpar optical quality. The saturated reds and oranges in specific scenes are strikingly vivid, enhancing the noir-esque lighting in Julian’s apartment and the intricate details of his Armani suits. Grain does intensify in dimly lit scenes, but this appears intentional, aligning with the film's moody aesthetic. Overall, Arrow’s Blu-ray is an admirable remaster offering a discernible improvement in both detail and emotional impact.

For those seeking an even more superior experience, Arrow also offers a 4K UHD edition with Dolby Vision HDR, promising further enhancement to an already exceptional presentation. Whether you opt for the Blu-ray or the UHD edition, Arrow Video’s "American Gigolo" stands as one of the best-looking discs of the year, delivering a visually captivating experience that honors Schrader's vision and Bailey’s cinematography.

The audio presentation of "American Gigolo" on Blu-ray offers a spectrum of listening options, including LPCM Mono, LPCM 2.0, and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. The transition from mono to stereo is notably striking, delivering an immediate enhancement in the auditory experience. This may make the shift to the 5.1 track appear less dramatic initially, though the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track distinctly enriches the Giorgio Moroder score, providing a fuller surround experience. Furthermore, the 5.1 mix effectively utilizes ambient environmental effects, enhancing outdoor scenes with precise placement of side and rear sound elements. Dialogue clarity remains consistently high across all tracks.

Arrow's inclusion of the original monaural mix in PCM 1.0 (48Hz/24-bit) underscores their commitment to audio fidelity, offering a surprisingly robust experience, particularly noticeable during the opening sequences and Moroder’s iconic music. The stereo mix further elevates the score and deepens dialogue and environmental sounds, offering a balanced listening option. While the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track expands primarily the musical elements, fans of Moroder's work will likely appreciate the comprehensive remixes. English SDH subtitles are also provided, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.

In summary, the audio tracks on this Blu-ray offer a highly satisfying listening experience tailored to a range of preferences, with each track bringing distinct advantages. The meticulous attention to audio quality enhances both dialogue and musical scores, making this a worthwhile upgrade for enthusiasts of "American Gigolo."

The Blu-ray of "American Gigolo" offers an extensive array of supplements that enrich the viewing experience with in-depth insights into the film's production, casting, and stylistic choices. A standout among these extras is the commentary by Adrian Martin, whose engaging analysis dissects both the technical aspects and character motivations within the film. The interviews present diverse perspectives, such as Paul Schrader’s candid recounting of casting challenges and King Baggot’s discussion on camera techniques. Notably, Jennifer Clark delves into the fashion elements key to Julian’s character, complementing the cinematic narrative with scholarly observations. Arrow's packaging enhances the overall product with detailed artwork and informative booklets, making this a must-have for collectors.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Adrian Martin: Insightful analysis of the film's technical and narrative elements.
• Below the Surface: Interview with director Paul Schrader.
• Six Ways to Sunday: Interview with Hector Elizondo.
• The Business of Pleasure: Interview with Bill Duke.
• Montages and Monologues: Interview with editor Richard Halsey.
• The Non-Conformist: Interview with camera operator King Baggot.
• Man Machine: Discussion with Dan Wilcox on Giorgio Moroder's score.
• American Icon: Interview with Professor Jennifer Clark on the film's fashions.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• Image Galleries: Collection of stills, posters, and lobby cards.

"American Gigolo," directed by Paul Schrader and released in early 1980, succinctly captures the essence of the 1980s zeitgeist while pre-figuring many of the themes that would dominate the decade. In his third directorial effort, Schrader’s vision is strikingly clear, providing a compelling neo-noir tinged character study that explores male escort Julian Kay's (Richard Gere) complex life. Gere’s portrayal of Kay, equipped with impeccable confidence and stylish Armani suits, stands as a defining performance in his career. Julian, with his meticulously maintained physique and high-end lifestyle, forms the epicenter of a plot that entwines sexual economics and danger, culminating in his being framed for a murder.

Schrader’s thematic underpinnings delve into the darker facets of American capitalism, positioning Julian not just as a gigolo but as a metaphor for commodification. Julian’s world is a curated display of material luxury—expensive watches, Warhol art pieces, and a black Mercedes—yet it remains void of personal fulfillment. Gere’s nuanced performance subtly questions whether Kay derives any genuine pleasure from his transactional existence. Schrader’s deliberate homage to cinematic inspirations like Bresson and Bertolucci infuses "American Gigolo" with an artistic resonance, making it a visually and emotionally engaging experience.

From a technical perspective, "American Gigolo" shines with cinematographer John Bailey’s “color noir” aesthetics and a magnetic score by Giorgio Moroder featuring Blondie’s "Call Me." The film’s visual and auditory components are impeccably intertwined, creating a slick yet timeless sensory amalgamation that reflects the era's mood. The film’s success, grossing $52 million against a $5 million budget, highlights its significant impact, reinforced by its stylish execution and the audience's visceral connection to Gere’s raw sex appeal enveloped in high-fashion allure. Schrader’s kinder character portrayal compared to his earlier works adds a layer of complexity, ensuring "American Gigolo" remains a critically acclaimed piece in cinematic history.

"American Gigolo" on Blu-ray, offers an intriguing dive into Paul Schrader's directorial prowess and Richard Gere's iconic breakthrough role. While some plot elements may feel outdated, the film's focus on Julian's character remains compelling and relevant. Arrow's Blu-ray release stands out with impressive technical quality, preserving Schrader's meticulous visual style and Giorgio Moroder's evocative soundtrack. The image quality is crisp, with heightened detail that brings new life to the film’s visual flair. The audio track is robust, ensuring the soundtrack resonates with clarity and depth.

Supplementary materials are a significant highlight of this release. Featuring comprehensive behind-the-scenes content, insightful commentary, and contextual analyses, these extras provide both fans and new viewers with a deeper understanding of the film's impact and legacy. Whether you are revisiting the film or experiencing it for the first time, these supplements enrich the viewing experience, making it a worthy addition to any collection.

In conclusion, "American Gigolo" may have aspects that show its age, particularly in the mystery subplot, but its core themes and character exploration remain powerful. Arrow's Blu-ray edition excels with superior technical performance and a plethora of enriching features. This release comes highly recommended for enthusiasts of 80s cinema and newcomers alike.