Inherit the Wind Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Inherit the Wind" by Kino Lorber Studio Classics utilizes the MPEG-4 AVC codec and is presented on a BD-50 disc with a size of 34.15 GB. This edition appears to use the same transfer as previously seen in the 2014 Twilight Time release, which is beneficial as it continues to deliver outstanding visual quality. The transfer is derived from an MGM master, likely from the early 2010s, and significantly surpasses the quality of earlier DVD iterations from 2001. Notably, this transfer manifests minimal damage marks and age-related artifacts compared to other Kino releases, offering an organic and aesthetically pleasing appearance without overt digital manipulation. The encoding is handled efficiently with an average video bitrate of 29909 kbps.

The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 rendering is noteworthy for preserving Ernest Laszlo's Oscar-nominated cinematography through crisp detail and an authentic film-like grain structure. The image boasts deep blacks and balanced whites, imparting a vibrant contrast that enhances scene visuality. Close-ups are particularly revealing, capturing fine facial details such as wrinkles and blemisheswith exceptional clarity. Even subtleties like costume patterns are rendered without distortion, maintaining their integrity throughout the viewing experience. Despite minor print damage appearances, the overall condition of the source materials remains exceptionally clean.

Kino Lorber's decision to retain this transfer underscores a commitment to quality, presenting "Inherit the Wind" in a way that respects and elevates the film’s visual integrity. This release definitively showcases the detailed textures and subtle tonal variances that contribute to its richly immersive cinematic experience.

The Blu-Ray audio presentation of "Inherit the Wind" delivers a DTS-HD Master Audio Dual Mono track with a bit rate of 1558 kbps at 16-bit depth. While earlier releases like Twilight Time provided a DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 track, this edition offers an expanded DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 format. The primary focus remains on dialogue delivery, crucial for the film's narrative complexity, and is proficiently executed without clarity issues, albeit slightly soft. It is advisable to adjust your volume settings to medium-high levels for an optimal listening experience.

Sound effects such as shattering glass and the decisive pounding of a gavel are rendered with precision, enhancing the mix's dynamic qualities. Ernest Gold's soundtrack incorporates variations of "Gimme Dat Old Time Religion," sung by Leslie Uggams, adding richness to both the diegetic and non-diegetic components. These musical elements fill the listening space effortlessly, bolstered by additional original compositions featuring woodwind instruments. Importantly, the audio transfer remains devoid of distortion or age-related artifacts like hiss, pops, or crackles, ensuring an immersive yet understated sonic experience.

The Blu Ray of "Inherit the Wind" offers a rich array of extras, focusing primarily on a new audio commentary by filmmaker and historian Jim Hemphill. Hemphill delivers an insightful and engaging discussion, exploring Stanley Kramer's career, directorial style, and the film's thematic relevance. He adeptly balances analysis with casual storytelling, drawing connections to historical events and contemporary parallels. While the final portion of his commentary heavily focuses on Kramer's life, it's undeniably informative. Despite some repetitive moments, Hemphill prepares his material well, incorporating book excerpts for additional depth. This commentary enriches the viewing experience by blending scholarly context with personal admiration for the film and its director. Notably, the Blu Ray replaces Twilight Time's isolated music track with this new commentary but retains vintage trailer content, providing broader insights into Kramer's work.

Extras included in this disc:

• NEW Audio Commentary by Jim Hemphill: An analytical yet informal exploration of Kramer's career and film themes.
• Original Theatrical Trailer: Hosted by Stanley Kramer with festival footage.
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Includes trailers for other Kramer productions.

The 2018 Blu-ray release of Stanley Kramer's "Inherit the Wind" by Kino Lorber Studio Classics presents a meticulous reproduction of this cinematic classic, preserving its compelling narrative while enhancing accessibility through features like Jim Hemphill's insightful audio commentary. The film, adapted from Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee's 1955 play, dramatizes the famed 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial, capturing the ideological clash between science and religion. With stand-out performances by Spencer Tracy as Henry Drummond (Clarence Darrow) and Fredric March as Matthew Harrison Brady (William Jennings Bryan), the movie adeptly reflects the societal tensions of its era. While deviating from actual events, the film maintains thematic authenticity, depicting the fervor and conflict intrinsic to the trial through its character dynamics and dramatic courtroom scenes.

Despite its lackluster box office performance upon initial release, "Inherit the Wind" has garnered critical acclaim over the decades. Spencer Tracy and Fredric March deliver career-defining performances, lauded for their depth and intensity. Gene Kelly's portrayal of journalist E.K. Hornbeck adds a distinct layer, reflecting his versatility beyond his established musical persona. Critics like Herb Kelly and Jay Carmody have praised Kramer's direction for its courageous embrace of socially relevant themes, though not all reviews were favorable. Notably, Andrew Sarris critiqued Kramer's style as overtly didactic, pointing to a division in critical reception that enriches discussions about the film's enduring impact.

This Blu-ray offers classic film enthusiasts an opportunity to experience "Inherit the Wind" with enhanced audio-visual quality. The inclusion of optional SDH subtitles ensures accessibility, broadening the film's reach to new audiences while retaining its provocative dialogue and artistic merit. Ultimately, the Blu-ray edition not only preserves the film's historical significance but also invigorates its timeless exploration of truth and integrity against the backdrop of societal change.

The 1960 film "Inherit the Wind" stands as a remarkable showcase of cinematic storytelling and acting prowess, featuring unforgettable performances by Spencer Tracy and Fredric March. Their riveting courtroom exchanges not only highlight the narrative but also serve as a masterclass in theatrical performance. Stanley Kramer's direction imbues this film with both precision and depth, underlining its enduring relevance and provocative exploration of faith versus science. The Blu-ray edition released by Kino Lorber is impressive, preserving the high-quality video and robust audio established by earlier editions like Twilight Time and Eureka Entertainment.

Of particular note is the exclusive commentary by Hemphill included on the disc. This insightful accompaniment enriches viewers' understanding of Kramer's auteur qualities and the film's societal impact, offering a perspective that is both informative and thoughtfully curated. The transfer quality is exceptional, maintaining the integrity and detail of the original film, thereby enhancing the viewing experience. The contrast, clarity, and texture prominent in Kramer's work are brought to life in this edition, validating the film's historical and cinematic significance.

In conclusion, "Inherit the Wind" on Blu-ray is a definitive purchase for enthusiasts of classic cinema and socially relevant narratives. Its skillful acting, cogent script, and fine direction make it not just an essential piece for collectors but a vital experience for any cinephile. With its preserved visual and auditory excellence complemented by enlightening commentary, this release earns a very solid recommendation. Whether revisiting this classic or experiencing it for the first time, viewers are bound to appreciate its substantial themes and artistic achievements.