A Lion Is in the Streets Blu-ray Review

The new Blu-ray transfer of "A Lion Is in the Streets" is an exceptional restoration that effectively leverages a recent 4K scan from its original Technicolor negatives. The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 presentation offers a vibrant display, accentuated by the meticulous craftsmanship of Harry Stradling Sr.'s renowned cinematography. The fine detail and crisp textures are striking, vividly capturing both the nuanced features in James Cagney's expressions and the lush backgrounds. This transfer, maintaining the film’s original 1.37:1 aspect ratio, keeps the integrity of the organic film grain while avoiding any deterioration into blockiness, providing a faithful yet enhanced viewing experience over its previous DVD iteration.

Technicolor's prowess is on full display with sumptuous hues that pop onscreen, from Cagney's fiery red hair to the rich blue skies and vivid accents like a yellow taxi cab. Francis's blonde hair and the sharpness of close-ups further highlight the transfer's fidelity, bringing a richness that might have exceeded even original theatrical presentations. Despite a slight brightness in day-for-night scenes, believed to stem from original setups, this Blu-ray release presents an unblemished print with no scratches or marks, expertly concealing any elements of studio artifice.

For fans of Technicolor and Cagney alike, this disc offers a rare treat, encapsulating the nostalgia of classic cinema while delivering unparalleled visual clarity and depth. It's an exemplary update from Warner Archive that not only revitalizes this lesser-seen gem but also enriches it with immersive visual storytelling that pays homage to its historic production roots.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "A Lion Is in the Streets" offers a notable enhancement over its previous DVD version, largely attributed to the integration of a 4K-sourced restoration. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track ensures an immersive auditory experience that complements the film's dynamic narrative. Dialogue is crystal-clear and efficiently mixed with background effects, ensuring that the audibility of spoken words remains uncompromised. Franz Waxman’s dramatic score retains a bold presence, filling the room with remarkable fidelity and depth. While the high end may present slight harshness, it does not detract from the overall impact of the soundtrack.

Technical mastery is evident in the manner in which engineers have handled age-related anomalies. The elimination of hiss, pops, and crackles results in a pristine soundscape, allowing sonic details such as clattering pots, thunder claps, and gunfire to resonate crisply. The ambient subtleties like gentle rain and nocturnal creatures contribute effectively to the film’s atmospheric immersion, providing a rich auditory backdrop that enhances the viewing experience. Optional English (SDH) subtitles are provided during the main feature, enhancing accessibility for all audiences.

In summary, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track on this Blu-ray release stands out as a meticulously crafted audio representation faithful to its era. Its careful restoration and mixing efforts cater to both fidelity and clarity, deserving commendation for turning historical audio elements into a modern auditory delight. This release exemplifies a high standard of audio restoration, leaving fans with a sonic presentation that respects both the original elements and contemporary expectations.

The Blu-ray release of "A Lion Is in the Streets" offers a minimal selection of extras, encapsulating nostalgic value with meticulous digital care. The standout feature is the classic Chuck Jones cartoon "Duck! Rabbit, Duck!", which remains vividly engaging in HD, capturing the timeless appeal of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Elmer Fudd with exceptional visual and auditory fidelity. This vintage Looney Tunes short, shared across other collections, might even surpass the main feature in entertainment quality. In addition, a theatrical trailer is included, presented as an unrestored segment from the film’s opening rather than a traditional preview. Despite these extras feeling sparse, they provide a charming retro glimpse into the era, though more comprehensive archival materials would enhance the package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Duck! Rabbit, Duck!: A classic Looney Tunes short starring Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Elmer Fudd.
• Theatrical Trailer: Unrestored footage serving as a non-traditional preview.

A Lion Is in the Streets is an ambitious yet flawed cinematic effort that, despite its compelling star, struggles to emerge from the shadow of its predecessor, All the King's Men. Directed by Raoul Walsh and starring James Cagney as Hank Martin, the film attempts to capture the rise and eventual fall of a populist political figure, drawing loose inspiration from the story of Louisiana's Huey Long. Although Cagney's performance is as electrifying as ever, his character's inconsistent Southern accent and the film’s glossy Technicolor appearance contribute to a sense of superficiality. The adaptation fails to capitalize on its potential depth, with the screenplay by Luther Davis providing little nuance or progression for its characters, ultimately rendering the storyline somewhat stagnant and predictable.

The film navigates themes of ambition and corruption but lacks the gravitas and incisiveness expected from such an exploration. Despite Walsh's directorial pedigree, A Lion is in the Streets does not quite achieve the visceral power or narrative coherence of more impactful films in this genre. Moments intended to be dramatic often slip into unintended absurdity, such as an outlandish courtroom scene or ill-conceived attempts at tension involving a jealous mistress and a perilous alligator. These elements, while occasionally entertaining, prevent the film from being taken seriously as a hard-hitting political drama. The supporting cast, including Barbara Hale and Frank McHugh, deliver commendable performances but are hampered by a screenplay that provides limited space for character development.

Technically, the Blu-ray release excels, with impressive restoration work that showcases Harry Stradling’s scenic cinematography. The vibrant colors and crisp visuals offer a visual feast that starkly contrasts with the film’s underlying narrative deficiencies. While Cagney’s dynamic presence and a dedicated supporting cast provide some redemption, A Lion Is in the Streets ultimately falls short of its aspirations, leaving it a curious but flawed addition to Cagney’s storied filmography.

Raoul Walsh's "A Lion Is in the Streets" presents a narrative that is hindered by inconsistent tonal shifts and a patchwork screenplay, yet remains entertaining primarily due to James Cagney's magnetic performance. While the film may not achieve forward momentum consistently, it still serves as an interesting piece for Cagney enthusiasts and those interested in a relaxed portrayal of a political rise akin to Huey Long's story. Warner Archive's Blu-ray release accentuates the film's appeal with an impressive Technicolor restoration, highlighting its visual splendor despite its narrative shortcomings.

The Blu-ray edition demonstrates Warner Archive's expertise in audio-visual restoration, offering a robust HD transfer that effectively maximizes the film's vibrant color palette. However, the disc is notably sparse on extras beyond the remastered visual and auditory presentation, catering more to avid collectors and established fans of James Cagney than to new viewers. Technically proficient as always, the audio enhances the impact of Cagney’s performance, allowing his charisma to resonate vividly throughout the film.

In conclusion, "A Lion Is in the Streets" is recommended primarily for fans of James Cagney and classic film collections. The Warner Archive Blu-ray release does justice to the film's aesthetics but offers little supplementary content, making it a purchase tailored for those who appreciate its historical and cinematic context. While it may not engage all audiences looking for a thorough exploration of political drama, it remains an entertaining showcase of Cagney’s enduring star power.