Diabolique Blu-ray Review

Henri-Georges Clouzot's "Diabolique," presented in an aspect ratio of 1.33:1, has been given a 1080p/AVC transfer by Criterion, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. Criterion’s high-definition transfer demonstrates considerable attention to detail and precision in its restoration efforts. Film grain appears well-resolved, and the natural grain structure is maintained throughout the film, though some instances of grain are less prominent due to noise corrections. The transfer exhibits an impressive level of detail and clarity, comparable to that of the Arrow Films release, with subtle yet effective contrast adjustments and stabilization corrections enhancing the overall visual presentation.

However, inherent limitations in the source material do manifest as an overall softness in the picture. This softness may be attributed to the original shooting conditions of the film but can result in certain scenes appearing slightly fuzzy or even out of focus. Despite these minor drawbacks, the presentation manages to deliver commendable detail, with some scenes showcasing strong dimensionality, especially during the shadowy climax. Contrast levels are good but somewhat subdued, lacking the dynamic pop found in other black-and-white releases. Conversely, black levels are exceptional, providing an inky and rich tone that enhances the film's noir aesthetic.

In summary, even with minor visual imperfections such as faint vertical lines and occasional specks, Criterion’s Blu-ray transfer of "Diabolique" offers a pristinely restored viewing experience that honors the original material. The slight softness and subdued contrast do not detract significantly from the film’s overall presentation, making this a standout release for classic film enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Diabolique" is equipped with a sole audio track: a French LPCM 1.0 track. Criterion has thoughtfully included optional English subtitles for the main feature, ensuring accessibility for non-French speakers. This uncompressed Linear PCM French Mono track delivers a positively solid audio experience. The dialog is delightfully crisp, clean, and stable, making it notably easy to follow despite the film's age.

The faithful reproduction has been well-cleaned, leaving the track devoid of any major inconsistencies or signs of its years since release. However, the inherent limitations of a mono track mean that it lacks significant dynamic amplitude, directional audio, and bass presence. Despite these constraints, the depth and fluidity of the audio remain pleasingly intact. Most impressively, the balance between dialogue and sound effects is very well maintained, preserving the film's original auditory ambiance and showcasing the filmmakers' excellent use of sound.

In essence, the French LPCM 1.0 track on this Blu-ray does a commendable job in maintaining the authenticity and integrity of "Diabolique's" original soundscape. It stands as a testament to the skills of the filmmakers involved, evoking a great deal from its single-channel design and ensuring that both dialog and effects are appropriately highlighted throughout the feature.

The extras section of the Blu-ray for "Diabolique" features an impressive selection of materials that shed light on the creation and lasting influence of Henri-Georges Clouzot’s suspense classic. Presented in 1080p with Dolby Digital Mono, these supplements provide both historical context and technical analysis. The new introduction by Serge Bromberg offers valuable insights into Clouzot's filmography and meticulous filmmaking style. Kelley Conway's selected-scene commentary is rich with academic analysis, dissecting the film's thematic elements and visual techniques. Kim Newman's interview focuses on the film's narrative structure and its impact on the genre, complementing the other features well. The inclusion of the original French theatrical trailer is a nostalgic touch, providing a glimpse into the film’s original marketing. Additionally, an essay by Terrence Rafferty adds further depth to this comprehensive package, making it a must-have for cinephiles.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: The original French theatrical trailer for "Les Diaboliques."
• Introduction: Film historian Serge Bromberg discusses Clouzot’s unique visual stamp on the film.
• Selected-scene Commentary: Kelley Conway analyzes several scenes, delving into Clouzot's themes and visual style.
• Kim Newman: Interview with novelist and critic Kim Newman about the film’s influence on horror cinema.

Henri-Georges Clouzot’s “Diabolique” (1955) remains a paragon of the suspense genre, rivaling the works of Alfred Hitchcock. Set in a boys' boarding school, the film follows the sadistic headmaster Michel Delassalle (Paul Meurisse), his tormented wife Christina (Vera Clouzot), and his mistress Nicole Horner (Simone Signoret). United by their hatred for Delassalle, Christina and Nicole conspire to murder him, leading to an intricate plot involving sedatives and a hidden body. Their anxiety escalates when the body disappears, thrusting them into a whirlwind of paranoia and uncertainty. The film's meticulous construction, characterized by precise camera movements, careful compositions, and understated suspense, captivates audiences without resorting to overbearing techniques.

“Diabolique” is celebrated for its masterful direction and skillful manipulation of suspense. Clouzot’s restrained style avoids flashy tricks, instead using subtle visual cues and careful blocking. A prime example is the scene involving the sedative-laced bottle of liquor, where Clouzot eschews dramatic close-ups for a naturalistic approach that enhances suspense without overt manipulation. The absence of an overbearing musical score further emphasizes the intense realism and psychological complexity. This minimalist approach allows viewers to remain actively engaged with the narrative and visual elements, fostering a deeper level of immersion and anxiety.

Exceptional performances bolster the film’s impact, with Meurisse portraying the cruel headmaster convincingly, while Clouzot and Signoret deliver nuanced transformations under stress. Though “Diabolique” has been frequently imitated and remade, the original’s innovative use of horror elements and twist ending solidify its status as a timeless cinematic treasure. Despite minor plot intricacies, the film’s precision in blending form and content continues to influence modern thrillers, making “Diabolique” indispensable for any film enthusiast.

Henri-Georges Clouzot's "Diabolique" remains a seminal work in the realm of suspense, masterfully leading audiences through an intricate maze of tension and deceit. Despite being over fifty years old, this film retains its ability to evoke chills, employing minimalist yet compelling editing and sound design to avoid the manipulative clichés that plague modern thrillers. Clouzot's direction marks an educational journey, where viewers must engage actively to grasp the full depth of the narrative's malevolent twists. Criterion's Blu-ray release ensures that this experience is presented in the highest quality, with the video and audio enhancements providing a respectable revival of this classic masterpiece.

Criterion has meticulously restored "Diabolique," delivering a visually and sonically immersive experience that showcases the film's artistic imagery in unparalleled clarity. While the supplementary materials are insightful, they may leave some craving more depth. Nevertheless, their presence, combined with the pristine restoration, makes this version a significant improvement over previous releases. The Blu-ray offers an exceptional opportunity for both seasoned fans and new viewers to appreciate the nuanced craftsmanship that defines Clouzot's work.

In conclusion, Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Diabolique" is an excellent addition to their already impressive catalog. The enduring brilliance of Clouzot’s meticulous direction ensures that the film remains as effective now as it was at its debut. This release not only cements "Diabolique" as a must-have for any serious film collection but also reinforces the hope for future releases of Clouzot’s other classics such as "Le Corbeau" and "Quai des Orfevres." VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.