Cimarron Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Cimarron" offers a stunning visual presentation that revitalizes this nearly century-old classic. The film, shot in an unconventional 1.2:1 aspect ratio, effortlessly captures a sense of grandeur through its exceptional production design and expansive cinematography. Despite its age, the meticulously restored version by Warner Archive reflects a newly invigorated aesthetic that stays true to the original film's visual intent. Leveraging a new 4K scan from cellulose acetate safety preservation elements, the restoration process resuscitates the movie's texture and detail, making every frame—from sun-drenched prairies to the intricately lit interiors—come alive with remarkable clarity. While the inherent grain and imperfections of the original film stock persist, they serve to enhance the authenticity and charm associated with early cinema.

The technical craftsmanship of Edward Cronjager's cinematography, particularly in the portrayal of dynamic sequences like the Oklahoma land rush, demonstrates the ambitious scope of early film production. The sequence boasts sweeping panoramics interspersed with intimate close-ups, effectively capturing the chaos and excitement of the event. While some scenes are limited by static shots, director Wesley Ruggles’ strategic use of extras creates an illusion of bustling activity, enhancing the film's epic feel. This restoration not only elevates "Cimarron" beyond its original exhibition quality but also easily surpasses previous home media editions, such as Warner Bros.' 2006 DVD. Enthusiasts of classic cinema will find that this Blu-ray edition presents "Cimarron" as a visual triumph deserving of its place in cinematic history.

Warner Archive's DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mix for "Cimarron" demonstrates a commendable balance between preserving the raw historical material and delivering a clear audio experience. Originating from a safety print derived from a nitrate preservation negative in the 1960s, the audio restoration achieves clarity in dialogue while maintaining a mostly clean sound environment. Although certain louder elements, such as high-frequency sounds, can verge on harshness—often compared to a train nearing derailment—the overall sound fidelity remains commendably smooth. This is a significant improvement over previous home video editions, showcasing enhanced minimal hiss and pop sounds typically associated with older film material, ensuring a fine auditory effort under challenging circumstances.

Technically detailed, the film’s English 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio is supported by optional English SDH subtitles, though limited to the feature itself. The original RCA Photophore sound recording lends exceptional clarity to dialogue. Notably, the sound effects vividly enhance key scenes: the Oklahoma land rush sequence is dynamically presented with realistic elements such as thundering horse hooves, creaking wagon wheels, and urgent human shouts, encapsulating a chaotic fervor in the audio spectrum. Similarly, later scenes with oil wells and cheering crowds are skillfully integrated into the audio design, providing a robust and memorable auditory experience that reflects the film's dramatic narrative arc. This blend of historical authenticity with modern audio technology delivers an engaging sonic landscape that respects the film’s legacy.

The Blu-ray extras for "Cimarron" deliver a compelling look into vintage animation and early 20th-century cinematic innovation. The highlight is the inclusion of restored Merrie Melodies shorts, which resonate with historical significance and visual appeal. The restoration quality is commendable, accommodating both animation enthusiasts and those interested in the evolution of film. These extras not only offer engaging entertainment but also serve as a significant way of preserving cinematic history. The package rounded out with an intriguing live-action short, adds depth to the collection and provides a broader understanding of the era's creative endeavors.

Extras included in this disc:

• Lady, Play Your Mandolin: The first Merrie Melodies short by Warner Bros., featuring Foxy in a whimsical, Prohibition-era saloon.
• Red-Headed Baby: A vintage musical cartoon set in a toy store at night.
• The Devil's Cabaret: A 1930 Technicolor short depicting the humorous workings of the underworld office.

"Cimarron," directed by Wesley Ruggles, is a historic cinematic undertaking notable more for its technical accomplishments than narrative prowess. As an early Best Picture winner, the film chronicles a 40-year saga beginning with the 1889 Oklahoma land rush. The plot follows Yancey Cravat (Richard Dix) and his wife Sabra (Irene Dunne) as they establish themselves in Osage, encountering both personal and societal struggles. Despite its ambitious storytelling arc encompassing significant historical events like the Cherokee Strip settlement and the burgeoning oil industry, the narrative often feels stagnant and unfocused.

Renowned for its ambitious production, "Cimarron" was a significant achievement in 1931 with its over $1.5 million budget, which was a record for RKO Pictures. Utilizing more than 5,000 costumed extras and approximately 30 camera operators, it achieved a grand visual spectacle reflective of the nitrate-era filmmaking. Initially well-received and a trailblazer in Oscar nominations, including in all Big Five categories, the film's legacy suffers due to its flat narrative momentum and pervasive cultural stereotypes. While these issues may deter modern audiences, it's a spectacle that captures an era’s technological exploration in cinema.

The Blu-ray release from Warner Archive exquisitely enhances "Cimarron" with a new 4K-sourced restoration. The restoration allows the film to shine visually, offering an impressive picture quality that surpasses typical catalogue releases of its time. The disc presents a compelling reason for historical film enthusiasts to revisit this early Hollywood production, despite its narrative shortcomings. Together with additional early 1930s pre-show entertainment, it’s a package that celebrates both the ambitious spirit and visual achievements of "Cimarron," while acknowledging its limitations in storytelling evolution.

Wesley Ruggles' "Cimarron," a pioneer Best Picture winner, stands as a technical marvel despite its modest box office success and mixed critical acclaim. The film's adaptation from Edna Ferber’s novel captures the evolving landscape of the Oklahoma territory through impressive action sequences and grandiose set designs. While lauded for its technical achievements, the film falls short with its often criticized character complexity and exaggerated acting styles. Its place atop lists of less favored Best Picture winners reflects these shortcomings, overshadowed by overlooked classics of 1931 like "The Public Enemy" and "City Lights."

The Warner Archive's Blu-ray release breathes new life into this early Hollywood epic with a remarkable 4K-sourced restoration. This visual enhancement elevates the viewing experience, highlighting the film's elaborate period detail and dynamic cinematography. The restoration is complemented by a thoughtfully curated selection of pre-show entertainment elements, making this release a valuable addition for collectors and enthusiasts of classic cinema. However, for newcomers, the film's historical significance might necessitate a trial viewing before purchase.

In conclusion, while "Cimarron" may not fully stand the test of time in terms of narrative depth and character development, its remarkable visual presentation and historical milestones make it a noteworthy piece in film history. The Blu-ray edition offers a compelling package that enhances the film's aesthetic value, appealing particularly to those interested in cinematic restoration and historical Westerns. Fans of Ruggles' and Mann’s later remake will appreciate this release’s contribution to preserving an important piece of cinematic heritage.