Cold Sweat Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Terence Young's Cold Sweat receives a commendable 1080p transfer on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber. Sourced from an older master, likely from a prior DVD release, this transfer showcases solid technical qualities. The absence of digital tinkering ensures the image retains a strong organic feel, though minor density fluctuations and occasional black crush are present. These issues notwithstanding, the delineation remains good, and even on larger screens, the visuals offer plenty of detail. The color grading is notably effective, with saturation appearing quite natural and balanced.

The film grain, evident throughout, lends a clean, film-like appearance to the image, further bolstering its commendable detail levels. Facial features, period-specific clothing, and detailed makeup work are robustly presented, demonstrating the transfer's ability to handle fine details with precision. Black levels are rich and inky, imparting the image with significant depth. While minor speckling and dirt are noticeable, particularly in scenes with optical effects such as interior shots of Bronson's car during chase sequences, these issues appear inherent to the source material rather than the result of transfer or restoration shortcomings. Overall, image stability is excellent and the film looks impressive even on large screens.

In summary, despite being sourced from an older master, Cold Sweat delivers a high-quality visual experience in high-definition. While some minor imperfections persist, the strong organic appearance, effective color grading, and detailed visuals make it a commendable Blu-ray transfer that will not disappoint enthusiasts of vintage cinema.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Cold Sweat" is anchored by a robust English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. The upper register is exceptionally stable, free from any distortions, pops, or age-related artifacts, which ensures a consistently high fidelity. Moreover, the mid and low ranges are meticulously balanced, eliminating any sudden spikes or drops in dynamic range. Clarity remains outstanding throughout, enhancing the overall listening experience.

The DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix strikes a compelling balance that complements the film's demanding auditory landscape. The careful equilibrium of sound allows for a slow-burn suspense that utilizes silent moments to intensify tension, while delivering peaks that punctuate action scenes effectively. Notably, dialogue retains its clarity across diverse acoustic scenarios, including James Mason's distinctive American accent. The atmosphere is brought to life in sequences like the high-paced car chase, where the roar of engines and squealing tires envelop the listener, and Bronson's off-road escapade showcases excellent sound design. The audio levels are impressively calibrated, requiring no constant adjustments. This is a rock-solid audio mix that significantly enriches the viewing experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Cold Sweat" provide a compelling dive into the film, enriching the viewing experience with pivotal insights and thrilling promotional content. The audio commentary, led by film historians Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson, offers an in-depth analysis of the film’s conception and critical reception, as well as its place within Charles Bronson's career. Additionally, the high-energy Car Chase Promo captures some of the film’s most exciting moments, presented in a style that seems rare today. Lastly, the disc features a collection of trailers for some of Bronson's other notable works, immersing viewers in a multifaceted look at his filmography.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Film historians discuss the film’s conception, reception, and strengths.
• Car Chase Promo: Exciting footage presented as a promo piece.
• Cold Sweat Trailer: Theatrical trailer.
• Rider on the Rain Trailer: Trailer for another Bronson film.
• Mr. Majestyk Trailer: Trailer featuring Charles Bronson.
• Breakheart Pass Trailer: Trailer advertisement.
• The White Buffalo Trailer: Promotional trailer.
• Cover: Reversible cover with vintage poster art.

"Cold Sweat," directed by Terence Young and starring Charles Bronson, operates within a 94-minute runtime brimming with fast-paced action and edge-of-your-seat tension. Loosely based on Richard Matheson's novel "Ride the Nightmare," the story follows Joe Martin (Charles Bronson) as a successful businessman with a dark past that unexpectedly resurfaces. Joe's tranquil life in the picturesque south of France, alongside his naive wife Fabienne (Liv Ullmann) and his stepdaughter, is shattered when old acquaintances, led by Captain Ross (James Mason), break into their home, seeking retribution for a crime dating back a decade.

The characterization in "Cold Sweat" appears disjointed at times. While Bronson's portrayal of Joe Martin maintains an everyman's resilience and ingenuity, the chemistry with his co-stars, including Liv Ullmann and Jill Ireland, often feels strained and unconvincing. The narrative stumbles with noticeable plot holes and an inorganic character development. Although James Mason delivers a commendable performance, his American accent choice leaves much to be desired, resembling more Robert Shaw in "Jaws" than an authoritative villain.

What "Cold Sweat" lacks in narrative cohesion, it compensates for with stunning cinematography by Jean Rabier and an impressive selection of panoramic scenes from the south of France. The noteworthy action sequences, particularly the high-adrenaline car chase that rivals the iconic "Bullitt," provide a visual treat. Despite the film's climatic sequence being abruptly cut and its ending feeling rushed and overly simplistic, the ride leading up to it is thoroughly engaging. This Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber offers additional features that enhance appreciation, such as an audio commentary by film historians and original trailers. Overall, while "Cold Sweat" might not stand out as one of Bronson’s classics, it remains a captivating addition for action enthusiasts and fans of 1970s cinema.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Cold Sweat" offers a commendable viewing experience for fans of Charles Bronson and 70s thrillers. The film, while riddled with an underwhelming cast dynamic that detracts from its full potential, compensates with stunning visuals of the south of France and gripping racing sequences akin to those in "Bullitt". The transfer, sourced from an older but robust organic master, delivers an impressive audiovisual performance that breathes new life into this lesser-known Bronson flick.

The Blu-ray presentation stands out with its sharp picture quality and dynamic sound that surpasses the memories many might have from VHS days. The inclusion of an insightful audio commentary enhances the value of the package, making it a desirable acquisition for collectors and fans of Charles Bronson alike. This effort underlines Kino Lorber's commitment to revitalizing vintage cinema through conscientious remastering and enriching supplementary content.

While "Cold Sweat" might not ascend to the status of an undiscovered genre masterpiece, it succeeds in providing elements of gritty entertainment and visual splendor. It is a worthy addition to any Charles Bronson aficionado's collection, especially when considering the quality of Kino Lorber's release.

While I don't agree that "Cold Sweat" is the insufferable abomination many old reviews on this side of the Atlantic have described, I can't say that it is an underappreciated genre classic either. Simply put, the stars that were hired to do this film do not look credible together, and this really is the main source of all of its major problems. On the other hand, there are some spectacular visuals from the south of France, and even some top-notch racing footage that is on par with the one that made "Bullitt" a cult classic, but this is basically filler material. Kino Lorber's release is sourced from an old but good organic master.