Hearts and Minds Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of Peter Davis' "Hearts and Minds," presented by Criterion, boasts a robust technical presentation with a high-definition 1080p transfer in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The high-definition transfer was meticulously crafted from the restored 35mm interpositive by the Academy Film Archive under the guidance of director Peter Davis and cinematographer Richard Pearce. The restoration process involved the use of MTI's DRS for manual removal of thousands of dirt, debris, scratches, and splices, alongside Digital Vision's DVNR for managing small dirt, grain, and noise.

The video quality exhibits considerable depth, clarity, and sharpness, albeit with some expected fluctuations due to the varied source material utilized in this documentary. Such inconsistencies, including varying contrast levels and image stability, are inherent to the original documentary footage, particularly in the war-related segments like aerial bombings. Nonetheless, significant improvements over Criterion's previous DVD release are evident, with enhanced detail in close-ups and improved color reproduction in group shots. The restoration has been handled admirably, as there are no problematic digital corrections or serious encoding anomalies detected.

When examining specific scenes, the modern footage's vibrant colors—such as Lt. Coker's bright white uniform juxtaposed against the vivid red, white, and blues of his homecoming—stand out prominently. Historical newsreel and combat footage maintain their historical integrity despite inherent film grain and damage variations. The black and white footage's quality of blacks and grays also fluctuates but remains within acceptable margins for documentary content. Any inconsistencies in detail or depth are attributable to the original material rather than the encoding process. Overall, this Blu-ray release maintains a high technical standard that positions it as the definitive home video presentation of "Hearts and Minds."

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray release of "Hearts and Minds" is available in English LPCM 1.0, remastered at 24-bit from restored magnetic DME tracks. Criterion has also provided optional English subtitles for the main feature, with printed English subtitles for segments of the film where French and Vietnamese are spoken. Notably, clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum have been manually removed through Pro Tools HD, with crackle attenuated using iZotope RX 3, ensuring a clean listening experience.

Throughout the film, the overall clarity and depth of the audio are consistently pleasing, despite minor dynamic fluctuations. The dialogue in the modern interviews is crisp and free from any damage or wear. While the archival footage imposes some inevitable limitations, the integrity of the audio is well-preserved with no noticeable pops, audio dropouts, or distortions. Although the range of nuanced dynamics is somewhat limited, sporadic explosions exhibit a surprising level of bass, momentarily revealing a broader dynamic range beyond the predominantly dialogue-driven soundtrack.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "Hearts and Minds" offer a comprehensive and profoundly enlightening view into the Vietnam War, supplementing the main feature with valuable interviews and archival footage. These outtakes, captured by director Peter Davis, present an in-depth examination through interviews with pivotal figures such as George Ball, Tony Russo, and General William Westmoreland, alongside impactful raw footage from the war-torn regions of Vietnam. The content is presented in 1080p, although none of the segments are subtitled. The package is further enriched by Davis' insightful 2001 commentary and an engaging 44-page booklet, which provides critical historical context and reflections.

Extras included in this disc:

• Outtakes: Footage shot by Peter Davis but unused in the film.
• Introduction: Text-format overview.
• Philippe Devillers: French journalist discussing French and American impact in Indochina and Vietnam wars.
• George Ball: Archival interviews on his work and views on the Vietnam War.
• Tony Russo: Discusses leaking Pentagon Papers and antiwar activism.
• David Brinkley: Commentary on the media's role during the Vietnam War.
• General William Westmoreland: Excerpts from interviews in "Hearts and Minds."
• Walt Rostow: Audio interview on U.S. policies during the Vietnam War.
• Quang Nam Funeral: Raw footage of a South Vietnamese village funeral.
• Cong Hoa Hospital: Footage of injured soldiers in a South Vietnamese military hospital.
• Commentary: Audio commentary by director Peter Davis.
• Booklet: A 44-page illustrated booklet with essays and technical credits.

Peter Davis' "Hearts and Minds" (1974) provides a piercing examination of the Vietnam War, earning an Academy Award for Best Documentary amidst the backdrop of the war's devastating conclusion. Through a blend of powerful interviews and meticulously compiled archival footage, Davis portrays the multifaceted attitudes toward the conflict. The documentary segments include dialogues with political figures like J.W. Fulbright, revealing critical missed opportunities for peace, and controversial comments from military leaders such as General William Westmoreland. The edited contrasts are instrumental in subtly challenging the pro-war narrative, especially in scenes of raw wartime atrocities and the harsh interrogation methods used by U.S. forces. Davis' non-intrusive interview style allows individuals on both sides of the debate to voice their perspectives authentically, though the film's anti-war stance becomes evident through its careful juxtaposition of content.

The film's title draws from President Lyndon Johnson's remark about winning "the hearts and minds of the people," a sentiment tragically countered by Vietnamese perspectives labeling the U.S. actions as genocidal. Interviews with ordinary Vietnamese citizens culminate in a poignant portrayal of their resilient spirit, making clear the entrenched opposition to American intervention. Similarly, veterans' accounts of their irreversible physical and psychological scars exemplify the deeper societal rifts caused by the war. Notable are the starkly contrasting reactions among American soldiers – from those appearing enthusiastic to those embittered by their experiences – presenting a spectrum of war's impact on personal lives.

Critically, "Hearts and Minds" does not shy away from exposing institutional flaws, from Westmoreland's racist remarks to allegations of strategic incompetence and mismanagement at high levels. While presenting a clear anti-war bias, Davis's documentary captures revealing statements from proponents of the war, adding layers of complexity to its narrative. This holistic yet pointed critique renders "Hearts and Minds" not just a historical record but also a profound commentary on the human and political costs of the Vietnam War.

Peter Davis' "Hearts and Minds" is a controversial documentary that delves into America's involvement in the Vietnam War from 1959 to 1975. Davis employs a propaganda style, heavily tinged with political bias, which may cater primarily to viewers sharing his perspective. The film's polemical content and its tendency toward finger-pointing and potentially misleading portrayals make it a challenging watch for some. However, the technical prowess of The Criterion Collection's high-definition upgrade is undeniable, delivering significant improvements in both audio and visual quality despite limitations inherent in the original source material.

The video's presentation, while not immaculate, is as refined as possible given the archival footage's age and condition. Criterion's meticulous restoration brings out details and nuances that might have been lost in previous releases. The audio track, too, has been cleaned up to provide a clearer and more immersive listening experience. These technical enhancements ensure that "Hearts and Minds" remains accessible to contemporary audiences, albeit with a specific appeal to those interested in historical documentation rather than high-definition perfection.

In the context of ongoing global conflicts and the re-examination of past wars such as Iraq, "Hearts and Minds" gains renewed relevance. It stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of military actions and the power of media in shaping public perception. While it caters more to history buffs than HD aficionados, its timely release makes it a crucial watch for those reflecting on modern warfare and its implications.

In conclusion, "Hearts and Minds" offers a compelling, if biased, look at the Vietnam War era. The Criterion Collection's high-definition treatment enhances this historically significant film, making it RECOMMENDED with reservations. Viewers should approach it with an awareness of its underlying agenda but can appreciate the improved technical presentation.