Nothing Sacred Blu-ray Review

Kino's 1080p/AVC-encoded Blu-ray transfer of "Nothing Sacred" represents a significant improvement over prior standard definition releases, largely due to utilizing source materials from George Eastman House's film preservation division, including a Technicolor nitrate 35mm print that belonged to David Selznick. Expect mild age-related print issues such as occasional scratches and specks, but the overall visual performance remains unmarred by severe damage like warpage, brightness fluctuations, or tears. The transfer exhibits natural, healthy grain with no edge enhancement or other digital artifacts. Enhanced clarity is evident, with close-ups showcasing fine detail and backgrounds remaining discernible.

The color reproduction stands out, capturing the creamy, smooth-toned palette of the original film. However, there are subtle inconsistencies in skin tones, fluctuating between pale and ruddy. Despite these minor shifts, the stability and consistency of the hues are commendable. Yet, the lack of comprehensive digital restoration resources is evident in persistent imperfections: specks ranging in color (black, white, blue, green), frequent vertical lines, missing frames, reel change markers, and uneven transitions. The Technicolor appears somewhat faded and lacks the vivid saturation expected from early color films.

Overall, while there are areas for improvement, Kino's release of "Nothing Sacred" on Blu-ray presents a faithful representation of a 1930s film. It offers enhanced clarity and an improved color balance over previous releases but still contends with inherent limitations from the source material. The transfer is satisfactory and watchable, although it leaves one longing for a more thorough restoration to fully do justice to this Golden Age classic.

Kino's Blu-ray release of "Nothing Sacred" presents an LPCM 2.0 audio track that delivers a marked improvement over prior versions, significantly reducing background hiss and noise. While occasional clicks, pops, and splices are still present, the dialogue is consistently clear, and composer Oscar Levant's lush and romantic score sounds richer and fuller than ever. Despite the inherent top-heaviness typical of films from this era, the audio mix avoids being brash or tinny. However, it is worth noting that the Blu-ray lacks any subtitle options, potentially limiting accessibility for some viewers.

Nevertheless, there are limitations. The LPCM 2.0 mono track exhibits a consistent level of surface noise and intermittent pops throughout the film, indicative of minimal clean-up work on the audio. The vintage sound often results in voices possessing a certain shrillness, with limited dynamic range and occasional high-end distortion. The low end lacks weight, reflecting the typical quality of audio from a 75-year-old film that hasn't undergone restoration. Although the dialogue remains clear and comprehensible, one cannot help but note the absence of impressive restorations seen in movie soundtracks tackled by larger studios.

The Blu-ray release of "Nothing Sacred" features a minimal selection of extras that some viewers might find underwhelming. While the inclusion of trailers adds a nostalgic element, the absence of more in-depth content such as retrospective documentaries, film historian commentaries, or production featurettes is noticeable. This lack of comprehensive supplements limits the disc’s appeal to serious cinephiles and collectors seeking deeper insights into the film's production and its significance in cinema history. The restored visual quality is commendable, but the extras leave much to be desired.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailers: Original trailers for "Nothing Sacred," "A Star is Born" (1937), and Kino-produced trailer for "Pandora and the Flying Dutchman."

"Nothing Sacred," directed by William Wellman and based on the script by Ben Hecht, stands as a seminal example of 1930s screwball comedy, utilizing the era's burgeoning Technicolor technology with remarkable finesse. Set against the backdrop of the sensational Radium Girls scandal, the film embarks on a satirical journey through the media frenzy and the public's insatiable appetite for scandal. Fredric March delivers a deadpan yet engaging performance as Wallace Cook, a fallen star reporter seeking redemption through exploiting the purportedly terminal illness of Hazel Flagg, played by Carole Lombard. Notably, Lombard's performance combines vivacity and impeccable comedic timing, cementing her status as one of Hollywood's most gifted comediennes.

Hecht’s screenplay is both scathing and darkly humorous, critiquing journalistic sensationalism and the superficial sympathies of the readership. The plot's predictability is mitigated by its sharp dialogue and balanced screwball romance, illustrating a timeless theme of media manipulation and public gullibility. Noteworthy scenes include Hazel's grand New York debut and the ensuing comic attempts to maintain her fabricated illness, underscored by Lombard’s effervescent portrayal. Moreover, the film’s climax—a peculiar yet heartfelt bedroom brawl between Lombard and March— exemplifies the blended narrative of satire and romance.

Technologically, "Nothing Sacred" is distinguished by its pioneering use of three-strip Technicolor, which enhances rather than distracts from its narrative, avoiding gaudy exaggerations typically associated with early color films. This choice not only serves the story but also strives for greater realism, a rarity in its time. Overall, while some humor has aged, the film’s relentless critique of celebrity culture and media ethics remains powerfully relevant, highlighting that indeed nothing is sacred in the pursuit of fame and profit.

"Nothing Sacred" is a seminal screwball comedy from the 1930s, featuring one of Carole Lombard's best performances and captured in the rare Technicolor format. The film is a sharp satire on journalistic sensationalism and societal fascination with tragedy, still relevant in today's media landscape. After years of subpar releases, Kino's Blu-ray edition finally offers a satisfying viewing experience with a fine-looking transfer that respects the film's visual charm, despite the few blemishes that remain due to the film's age and previous mishandling.

While the Blu-ray's video quality generally impresses, particularly given the notoriously poor condition of the source materials, the audio doesn't quite meet modern standards, exhibiting signs of wear. The lack of supplementary features may disappoint some collectors, but the high-definition release itself is a significant upgrade that allows the film's clever narrative and outstanding performances to shine through more vividly than in any prior editions.

In conclusion, "Nothing Sacred" is a darkly funny farce and a whip-smart satire that remains compelling due to its astute observations on media and public behavior. Despite some technical imperfections and a paucity of extra features, Kino's Blu-ray release is a commendable effort that gives this classic film the respect and exposure it deserves. Highly recommended for both classic film aficionados and new viewers seeking a glimpse into golden-era cinema.