Donovan's Brain Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Donovan's Brain" presents the film with an AVC encoded image in a 1.37:1 aspect ratio, showcasing impressive clarity that will satisfy both fans and cinephiles. Benefiting from a fresh new scan, the HD transfer exhibits remarkable detail, particularly in production design and set decoration. Close-ups are exceptionally sharp, revealing fibrous qualities in costumes and nuanced facial features. The black and white cinematography is well balanced, maintaining fine grain for a filmic texture, although there are some mild vertical scratches and speckling that do not detract from the overall presentation.

Considering the film's age and its status as a lesser-known B-level sci-fi movie, the 1080p transfer is genuinely remarkable. Black levels and grey scale are excellent, contributing to a substantial sense of depth. The film's grain structure has been retained, ensuring a satisfying level of detail that can even expose the era's technological limitations in special effects—all of which add to the nostalgic charm. Notably, the transfer is sourced from a pristine print, making it virtually spotless with no noticeable damage or speckling. This clean, well-done remaster allows viewers to fully appreciate the intricacies of Dr. Cory's laboratory and other meticulously crafted sets.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 presentation of "Donovan's Brain" delivers a robust and comprehensive listening experience, albeit with notable volume intensity. Users are advised to lower their volume before initiating playback as the soundtrack reveals an unexpected loudness which might be a transfer characteristic. The audio maintains a high level of fidelity, with surges in violence reaching crackly highs while retaining clarity. Dialogue exchanges remain lucid and crisp, elevating the dramatic moments effectively. The musical score is forceful yet pleasing, enhancing the suspenseful framework of the narrative.

A slight hiss is detectable throughout the soundtrack, though it does not detract significantly from the overall listening engagement. The mix offers secure dialogue, balanced effectively against sound effects and score, ensuring a well-defined sonic separation. This separation provides an immersive auditory atmosphere that enriches the viewing experience. While there are minor imperfections, such as occasional pops, the audio track fulfills its function without major distractions. All considered, this audio presentation is of high quality, ensuring that every line of dialogue and musical cue is clearly communicated to the audience.

The Extras on the Blu-ray of "Donovan's Brain" offer a comprehensive look into the film's historical context and enduring influence. Richard Harland Smith’s audio commentary is particularly enriching, infusing the movie with a plethora of fascinating trivia and insightful remarks that keep listeners engaged. Joe Dante’s segment in "Trailers From Hell" adds another layer of appreciation, making the audience wish for even more extended commentary from Dante due to his evident passion and depth of knowledge on the subject. The inclusion of both the theatrical trailer and trailers for related films like "The Magnetic Monster" and "The Black Sleep" enhances the historical perspective provided by the disc.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary featuring film historian Richard Harland Smith: A treasure trove of trivia and engaging content.
• Trailers From Hell: Director Joe Dante shares thoughts on the movie's history and influence (HD).
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional material (SD).
• 'The Magnetic Monster' Trailer
• 'The Black Sleep' Trailer

"Donovan’s Brain," a 1953 adaptation of Curt Siodmak's novel, gracefully diverges from traditional horror, opting instead for a riveting blend of mad science and telekinetic exploits. The narrative captivates through its exploration of mind control, encapsulated in the disturbing premise of a brain submerged in a tank of murky fluid exerting its will over the scientist who revived it. Delivering quintessential 1950s sci-fi, Lew Ayres stars as Dr. Patrick Cory, a talented but overzealous surgeon whose groundbreaking procedures push ethical boundaries. The film focuses on cerebral debates over divine intent and scientific hubris, opting for financial machinations over visceral violence.

Ayres anchors the film with a compelling performance, supported by Nancy Davis (Nancy Reagan) as his wife Janice and Gene Evans as his oft-inebriated colleague. The tale unfolds with Donovan, an unscrupulous tycoon who survives only via his brain. The movie richly explores themes of power and autonomy as Donovan's brain gradually manipulates Cory, escalating to mind control and sinister schemes. The unfolding suspense lies not in gore but in the cerebral and psychological torment epitomized by Cory's loss of agency—an uneasy reflection of Cold War era anxieties.

Technically, "Donovan’s Brain” embodies the charm of B-movies from its era, with its noticeably rudimentary special effects—a rubber brain in a fish tank manipulated by sticks—paradoxically enhancing its eerie atmosphere. Despite any perceived cheesiness, the film remains historically significant as it predates and influences numerous adaptations and embodied Cold War fears about mind control. Viewed through this lens, it maintains an enduring appeal. Enthusiasts of 1950s sci-fi will find this Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber a gratifying experience that preserves the film’s original allure while providing a nostalgic journey into classic genre filmmaking.

'Donovan's Brain' is a classic piece of early 1950s sci-fi filmmaking. While it would go on to inspire a number of rip-offs and remakes, the original is still the best and just as creepy as ever. Kino Lorber has nailed this Blu-ray release with a fantastic image transfer and a very strong audio track along with some decent extra features. 'Donovan's Brain' is highly recommended.

Perhaps genre fanatics new to Donovan's Brain won't receive the quaking experience promised in the early going, but the picture generally keeps on task, building tension through confrontations and interference from sleazy supporting characters. It's an enjoyable effort with pleasing darkness and thespian confidence (future First Lady Nancy Davis appears as the scientist's wife), helping to give the silliness of an all-powerful floating brain some necessary gravity. While 'Donovan's Brain' may not provide the intense freneticism modern audiences might expect from sci-fi films, it triumphs with its methodical tension-building and intriguing character dynamics. The plot surrounding an all-powerful brain allows for eerie storytelling that pioneers the creepy, cerebral themes seen in later adaptations.

The Blu Ray transfer by Kino Lorber is commendable, offering substantial improvement in detailing and sharpness, making it an immersive viewing experience. The audio quality supports the eerie atmosphere of the film impeccably, with clear and robust sound contributing significantly to the movie's overall impact.

Additional features included within the Blu-Ray release offer valuable insights and context for fans and newcomers alike. This version serves both as an homage to classic cinema and an engaging presentation for sci-fi enthusiasts.

Perhaps genre fanatics new to Donovan's Brain won't receive the quaking experience promised in the early going, but the picture generally keeps on task, building tension through confrontations and interference from sleazy supporting characters. It's an enjoyable effort with pleasing darkness and thespian confidence (future First Lady Nancy Davis appears as the scientist's wife), helping to give the silliness of an all-powerful floating brain some necessary gravity.