Rebecca Blu-ray Review

The 1080p transfer of Alfred Hitchcock's "Rebecca," presented in an aspect ratio of 1.33:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, marks a significant upgrade in the film’s home video releases. This release by Criterion utilizes a new digital transfer created in 16-bit 4K resolution from the 35mm nitrate original camera negative, executed on a Lasergraphics Director film scanner at Motion Picture Imaging (MPI) in Burbank, CA. The meticulous digital restoration, overseen by Walt Disney Studios Operations, and additional efforts by the Criterion Collection using Pro Tools HD and iZotope RX, have resulted in a distinctly superior video presentation.

The 4K master is exemplary, bringing remarkable improvements in density, fluidity, and overall image balance. The grain is tightly resolved, reminiscent of the most refined filmic presentations, and the grading introduces a rich range of organic nuances that enhance the visual experience significantly. Highlights, shadows, and reflections maintain their proper balance without the unnatural contrasts seen in previous releases. This meticulous restoration effectively removes distracting debris, cuts, damage marks, and other age-related imperfections.

Contrast is expertly managed with lush blacks and crisp whites that heighten detail levels and enhance depth throughout the film. This transfer excels in presenting fine textures in etchings, carvings, fabrics, and delicate laces with sharpness and precision. Shadow delineation is distinct, ensuring close-ups clearly highlight facial details like Joan Fontaine’s complexion and tear-stained cheeks. Compared to the 2012 Blu-ray release, this edition offers richer contrast and a cleaner, more balanced image, making it an indispensable upgrade for enthusiasts of Hitchcock’s "Rebecca."

The Blu-ray release of "Rebecca" offers a singular audio track: English LPCM 1.0, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles for accessibility. This LPCM mono track, meticulously remastered from the original soundtrack negative, provides clear and well-modulated sound. Extensive restoration efforts have eliminated age-related imperfections such as hiss, pops, and crackles, presenting a polished and clean auditory experience. The new lossless track is quite comparable to the previous release in terms of fluidity, depth, and balance, with no notable discrepancies impacting the overall quality.

Franz Waxman's romantic score benefits from a wide dynamic scale, handling highs and lows without any distortion. The music score consistently enriches the film without overpowering the action, ensuring that dialogue remains prioritized, clear, and comprehensible throughout. Ambient sounds, such as wind and rain, are presented cleanly and effectively, while sonic accents like fireworks are crisp and well-defined. Though the track is not particularly complex, it manages multiple competing elements with admirable ease, providing an immersive audio experience that enhances the overall viewing of Hitchcock’s classic.

Criterion's Blu-ray edition of "Rebecca" offers a comprehensive and engaging set of extras that delve deeply into the film's production, its creators, and its lasting impact. The audio commentary by Leonard J. Leff provides a thorough analysis of the conflict-ridden production, linking "Rebecca" to Hitchcock's broader body of work. A conversation between Molly Haskell and Patricia White examines the film through a feminist lens, while the making-of featurette and a visual effects breakdown offer detailed insights into the technical and creative challenges faced during production. The disc also features several archival interviews and documentaries, including a substantial look at Daphne Du Maurier's life and how her novel inspired the film. Additional extras like screen tests, casting galleries, radio adaptations, and a music and effects track round out this must-have collection for film enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Rerelease Trailer: Original rerelease trailer for "Rebecca."
• Molly Haskell and Patricia White: A discussion on the film's stylistic layers and feminist overtones.
• The Making of Rebecca: Documentary on the production history and Hitchcock's relationship with producer David O. Selznick.
• Commentary: Archival audio commentary by film scholar Leonard J. Leff.
• Visual Effects: An overview by Craig Barron on the film's visual design and specific lensing choices.
• Daphne Du Maurier: In the Footsteps of Rebecca: Documentary focusing on the life and work of the author.
• The Search for I: Archival screen tests, lighting and makeup tests, and costume tests.
• Joan Fontaine and Judith Anderson: Archival NBC interviews and phone interviews with Leonard J. Leff.
• Alfred Hitchcock: Archival interview conducted by Tom Snyder for NBC's "Tomorrow."
• Rebecca on the Radio: Three radio versions of "Rebecca."
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet featuring an essay by David Thomson, reprinted production correspondence, and technical credits.

"Rebecca", Alfred Hitchcock's first Hollywood film, remains a masterclass in atmospheric filmmaking, brilliantly adapting Daphne Du Maurier's classic novel. The plot, partly reminiscent of Cinderella, evolves into a gripping tale of suspense. While tending to an elderly dame in Monte Carlo, the unnamed protagonist (Joan Fontaine) captures the attention of widower Maxim de Winter (Laurence Olivier), leading to their swift marriage. Upon arriving at the grand estate of Manderley, tensions with housekeeper Mrs. Danvers (Judith Anderson) unveil sinister undercurrents, making it clear that Rebecca’s presence still looms large.

Despite its traditional presentation, "Rebecca" effectively showcases Hitchcock's skill in creating tension and nuanced characters. The film skillfully balances mystery, romance, and psychological underpinnings, reinforced by stylish and meticulous craftsmanship. However, some suggest that producer David O. Selznick’s influence constrained Hitchcock’s typically bold style, making the film more polished yet less distinctive compared to his later works. Still, the deft character transformations and pivotal narrative turns ensure its enduring appeal.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Rebecca" honors this cinematic gem with a pristine transfer and an extensive array of supplemental materials. This includes archival interviews, commentary tracks, and a 40-page booklet with essays and rare production insights. The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and LPCM mono audio deliver clarity and fidelity befitting the film's stature. Overall, "Rebecca" not only highlights Hitchcock’s early Hollywood prowess but continues to reveal new layers with each viewing, affirming its place in the pantheon of classic cinema.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Rebecca" represents an unparalleled achievement in the restoration and presentation of Alfred Hitchcock’s first Hollywood film. Sourced from a meticulously crafted 4K master, the visual fidelity is nothing short of stunning, rendering this classic with a clarity and depth never before seen. The transfer beautifully preserves the film's shadowy, atmospheric cinematography, crucial to its haunting tone. Supporting the pristine visuals is an equally impressive audio track that carefully balances dialogue, score, and ambient sounds to recreate the immersive experience intended by Hitchcock.

The Blu-ray set's special features are exceptionally thorough, offering not just a detailed look at the making of "Rebecca" but also comprehensive archival material that sheds light on the complexities and behind-the-scenes dynamics of its production. These supplements enrich the viewer's understanding of both the film's artistic nuances and its historical context. With contributions from film historians and critic insights, the bonus content adds substantial value, making it an essential acquisition for enthusiasts and scholars alike.

In conclusion, while "Rebecca" may lack some of the idiosyncratic flair found in Hitchcock’s later works, it remains a polished and compelling piece of cinematic craftsmanship. Criterion’s Blu-ray release not only does justice to the film’s legacy but arguably elevates it through impeccable restoration and extensive supplementary content. This edition is unequivocally a must-have for any serious film collector, securing "Rebecca’s" place as a pivotal work in Hitchcock’s storied career. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.