Man's Favorite Sport? Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Man's Favorite Sport?" is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC in a 1080p transfer. Sourced from an older Universal Pictures master, this transfer appears to be the same one used for the 2016 Universal Blu-ray. Despite the age of the master, the video presentation is quite satisfactory. The transfer is nearly spotless, with only minor blemishes and no significant debris or frame issues. However, a light application of Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) is present, leading to some smearing of textures when viewed frame-by-frame, though this is less apparent during normal viewing.

Russell Harlan’s cinematography shines through as the transfer maintains pleasing delineation, clarity, and depth. While the master struggles slightly with nuances in certain areas, especially under controlled lighting conditions, darker scenes are handled convincingly well. The natural film grain has not been erased but tends to look somewhat unnatural. Despite these minor drawbacks, contrast and black levels are solid throughout, with only slight crushing in some scenes.

The color balance of the transfer remains consistently good, although saturation levels could see improvement to enhance the perception of depth. Overall, this Kino Lorber release offers a solid video experience, aligning closely with professional standards prevalent at the time of its initial Blu-ray mastering. Region-A locked viewers will find this to be a commendable presentation that respects the original film elements despite its inherent age-related limitations.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Man's Favorite Sport?" is a commendable showcase of the English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. This offering ensures a clean and distortion-free experience, effectively preserving the film's charm. The optional English SDH subtitles provide added accessibility, enhancing comprehension for all viewers. Henri Mancini's exceptional score is a standout element, infusing the presentation with energy and flair. His intelligently composed soundtrack, hailed for its wit and charm, complements the on-screen narrative seamlessly. The technical execution of the track ensures clarity, sharpness, and balance, which are notably preserved without age-related imperfections.

Dialogue delivery is consistently clear, attributing to the distinct separation and quality within this mono setup. The sound mix supports the film's comedic undertones without overshadowing them, creating an engaging auditory environment. The reliability of the audio quality allows for an immersive listening experience where Mancini’s score shines brightly, punctuating key moments with finesse. The subtle nuances of the original audio design are retained effectively, providing an authentic representation of the film’s original release.

In summary, this DTS-HD Master Audio track excels in delivering both technical precision and artistic satisfaction. It supports the comedic intent of Howard Hawks’ direction and thrives in elevating Henry Mancini’s acclaimed composition. Despite being a 2.0 mono track, it defies expectations by maintaining a robust and vibrant audio presentation that is both rich and rewarding for enthusiasts of classic cinema soundtracks.

The Blu Ray extras for "Man's Favorite Sport?" offer a rich collection of insights and nostalgia. The audio commentary by filmmaker/historian Michael Schlesinger, enriched with remarks by co-star Paula Prentiss and Richard Benjamin, is an engaging listen that captures a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes details and anecdotes. Schlesinger, thorough in his research, adeptly identifies supporting actors and highlights the comedic and metaphorical nuances of the film, making it valuable for fans and cinephiles. His admiration for Rock Hudson's role adds a personal touch, shedding light on the film’s thematic layers. The vintage theatrical trailer rounds out the extras, providing a glimpse into the film’s original promotional efforts. These features collectively offer an immersive experience that enriches understanding and appreciation of this classic film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: An informative discussion from Michael Schlesinger, Paula Prentiss, and Richard Benjamin.
• Trailer: A vintage theatrical trailer for "Man's Favorite Sport?" in English.

Howard Hawks' "Man's Favorite Sport?" (1964) gets a deserving Blu-ray release from Kino Lorber. This overlooked gem from Hawks' later career captures much of his trademark style, albeit with a slower pace than his earlier screwball comedies. The film skillfully emulates the comedic energy of "Bringing Up Baby," entailing the chemistry between Rock Hudson and Paula Prentiss that supplies the movie's vitality. Hudson plays Roger Willoughby, a sporting goods expert ironically inexperienced in fishing, contrary to his bestseller's claim. This premise sets the stage for delightfully silly escapades and evolving romance, reflective of Hawks' adeptness with humor.

The story unfolds as Willoughby is roped into a fishing contest at Lake Wakapoogee by his well-meaning boss, risking exposure in a hilariously public manner. Accompanied by vibrant characters such as Abigail Page (Paula Prentiss) and Easy Muller (Maria Perschy), the narrative leverages comedic scenarios and character dynamics effectively. While it lacks the frenetic pace of Hawks' earlier works, "Man's Favorite Sport?" affords audiences time to relish its humor, complete with unique, surrealistic gags reminiscent of Tex Avery's style.

Crucial to the film's charm is its outstanding score by Henry Mancini, augmenting the whimsical tone. Though not as recognized as Hawks' other late-career films like "Hatari!" or "El Dorado," this film merits appreciation. Its capacity to generate laughter and engage viewers—especially through the genuine chemistry between its leads—renders it a perfect viewing choice following a long day. This Blu-ray release not only resurrects a sadly underrated Hawks film but also celebrates a unique entry in his directorial repertoire, blending romance with distinctive comedic flair.

The Blu-ray release of "Man's Favorite Sport?" delivers a nostalgic and engaging viewing experience, anchored by a commendable master sourced from Universal Pictures. This film stands out for its captivating chemistry between the characters, which amplifies its comedic elements, making it an ideal pick for unwinding after a hectic day. The video transfer, while derived from an older source, maintains the film’s vibrancy and clarity, ensuring a pleasurable visual journey.

An integral component of this Blu-ray package is the insightful commentary provided by filmmaker/historian Michael Schlesinger. Alongside actors Paula Prentiss and Richard Benjamin, Schlesinger delves into the intricate details of the film's production and contextual nuances, providing fans with a deeper appreciation for the movie. His articulate approach includes highlighting supporting cast members and dissecting thematic elements such as the metaphorical use of fishing within the narrative. Schlesinger's passion for the film is evident as he defends and elucidates its creative merits and humor, even acknowledging its occasionally sluggish pacing.

In conclusion, "Man's Favorite Sport?" shines in comparison to films such as "Bringing Up Baby" due to its dynamic performances and entertaining storyline. This Kino Lorber release is highly recommended for both new viewers and long-time fans who appreciate the subtle brilliance of this classic comedy. Combining well-executed technical aspects with an enriching commentary, it secures its place as a valued addition to any Blu-ray collection.