Little Miss Marker Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of approximately 1.35:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of Little Miss Marker from Kino Lorber offers a mostly satisfactory 1080p transfer. Shot on black-and-white 35 mm film with spherical lenses by Alfred Gilks, the film's image retains a nostalgic and classic veneer, though there are noticeable limitations due to the lack of remastering. The natural grain structure effectively captures the celluloid feel, providing a commendable look, especially given the film's vintage origins nearly nine decades ago. Despite some instability during transitions, the overall image stability is robust. Grayscale is generally convincing with balanced highlights, and image clarity allows for distinct details such as patterns on costumes and facial features.

The contrast and delineation in Little Miss Marker are quite good, delivering rich blacks and stable bright whites that enhance the visual narrative. The film's silvery filmic appearance adds depth, and the close-ups, particularly of Shirley Temple’s iconic tear-stained expressions, are captured with precision. While present, print damage such as errant spots and scratches does not significantly detract from the viewing experience, maintaining an engaging and largely uninterrupted visual flow. The enduring charm of this transfer lies in its ability to present well-defined images and shadow details despite areas where digital restoration could elevate the presentation further.

In conclusion, while this release does not achieve the pristine quality that a newly remastered version might offer, it nonetheless provides a gratifying replication of the historical texture and visual essence of Little Miss Marker. Viewers with a region-compatible player will find this Blu-ray to be both an endearing homage to early cinema and a testament to Kino Lorber's effort to preserve its filmic qualities.

The Blu-ray release of "Little Miss Marker" presents an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles. The audio track maintains a generally clean and accessible sound quality, highlighting the dialogue with clarity and precision. Despite the nearly 90-year-old origins of the soundtrack, the dialogue remains distinct, and the vocal performances, particularly Dorothy Dell's "I’m a Black Sheep Who’s Blue" and her duet with Shirley Temple on "Laugh, You Son of a Gun," are pleasantly conveyed.

However, the fidelity of the track is somewhat limited, a characteristic typical of early 1930s recordings. Although there is intermittent light background hiss, it is not accompanied by distortions or crackle, preserving the overall stability of the listening experience. This ensures that while there are inherent imperfections due to age, they do not notably detract from the listening experience.

The musical score by Ralph Rainger enhances the viewing experience without overwhelming the dialogue or action. The sound fills the room moderately well, with sonic accents being crisp. Nevertheless, there remains a slight thinness on the high end, characteristic of tracks from this era. Despite these limitations, fans of Shirley Temple and vintage cinema can expect a satisfactory audio presentation that reliably supports the film's nostalgic charm.

The Extras on the Blu-ray of "Little Miss Marker" offer insightful commentary, notably an exclusive audio track by film critic Lee Gambin and costume historian Elissa Rose. The commentators delve into various aspects of the film's production and narrative, providing rich historical context about different film versions and the socio-economic backdrop of the Depression era. They explore character dynamics, particularly highlighting Shirley Temple's role and her unique status in Hollywood, attributed to familial support and intrinsic talent. The discussion touches upon the character arcs and thematic elements, including the symbolic nature of the horse and its role in uniting characters. Noteworthy anecdotes about Shirley Temple's interactions with Bill “Bojangles” Robinson and behind-the-scenes details enrich the commentary. The examination of costumes, Menjou's style, and Dorothy Dell’s life contribute further depth. This engaging track is a valuable addition to the disc, offering layered insights for devoted fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: An insightful audio track by Lee Gambin and Elissa Rose covering film history, narrative themes, and character dynamics.
• Trailers: Includes trailers for related Kino releases, such as the 1949 remake "Sorrowful Jones."

Alexander Hall's 1934 classic, Little Miss Marker, now available on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, stands as a poignant character study driven by the seamless chemistry of its stars. The synergy among Shirley Temple, Adolphe Menjou, and Dorothy Dell enriches the narrative, transforming it into an engaging exploration of mismatched souls converging in the gritty world of New York's gambling dens. Despite several script alterations from Damon Runyon's original story, critics agree these changes don’t dampen the film’s charming essence. Temple’s portrayal of Marky, the streetwise moppet used as gambling collateral, injects the film with infectious energy, capturing audiences both then and now.

Temple’s performance is a masterclass in blending innocence with mature comedic timing, crafting a character that stands out even amidst such a vivid ensemble cast. As Marky brings unexpected heart to her adopted gangster family, Menjou and Dell are far from overshadowed. Menjou's Sorrowful Jones evolves convincingly, showcasing the tender transformation from hard-nosed bookie to caring guardian. Dell complements the cast with her multifaceted portrayal of Bangles Carson, blending vulnerability with charisma despite some tonally dissonant musical scenes.

The film’s visual appeal is enriched by Alfred Gilks’ cinematography, known for its work on collaborations with W.C. Fields and An American in Paris. Though the plot navigates predictable tropes—redemption through love and community—the lively dialogues and vibrant Runyonese banter breathe fresh life into these motifs. Historical context aside, Little Miss Marker continues to captivate thanks to Temple’s magnetic screen presence, affirming her legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring child stars. In a sobering twist, her co-star Dell’s untimely death just weeks post-premiere serves to underscore the transient magic of cinema captured in Hall's ebullient yet heartfelt narrative.

The Blu-ray release of "Little Miss Marker" by Kino Lorber brings a classic Shirley Temple film into the spotlight once more, offering a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century cinema. While the title role is characterized by Temple's undeniable charm, it is the substantial performances by Adolphe Menjou and Dorothy Dell that infuse authenticity into the comedy. The film is a fine example of its era, retaining a stage-bound feel yet benefiting from Temple's performance, which left an indelible mark unmatched by subsequent portrayals of the same character.

Technically, the Blu-ray presentation, derived from an older master, does leave the film with a dated appearance. Despite this, it manages to maintain decent overall quality, delivering solid video and audio performance. This version is a visual delight that allows audiences to appreciate both the narrative charm and Temple's exceptional talent during that period. While some may miss potential opportunities like scenes at racetracks that could have expanded its visual scope, this edition still manages to engage through its simplicity and nostalgia.

In conclusion, "Little Miss Marker" endures as an essential part of Shirley Temple's filmography and a delightful rendition of Damon Runyon's tale. Although not among Temple's most universally acclaimed works today, this Blu-ray offers a worthwhile revisit for fans and newcomers alike. The charming blend of humor and nostalgic performances makes this release recommended for anyone appreciating classic cinema and its evolution.