Mississippi Burning Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray presentation of Alan Parker's Mississippi Burning exhibits a highly commendable 1080p transfer, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and framed in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Sourced from a recent 4K remaster, this release marks a significant upgrade over earlier editions. Enhanced delineation and depth characterize the image, with a much-improved color scheme that positively impacts both depth and fluidity. Clarity is notably superior, especially in daylight outdoor scenes, showcasing finer details and more convincing background highlights. Minor criticisms include sporadic small white specks; however, these are not overly distracting.

The contrast has been finely tuned compared to the earlier 2015 Twilight Time release, eliminating previous issues with blooming whites and hazy film grain during darker scenes. Whites now display a spectrum of shades, enhancing the image’s natural look. Dark sequences maintain uniform black tones without crushing or losing detail, while a healthy presence of film grain ensures high levels of detail. The cooler overall tone ensures robust colors without oversaturating blues, while flesh tones appear more natural with pleasing red and pink hues. Intricate details in patterned clothing and facial features are brought into sharper relief, especially in close-up shots.

Free from artifacts such as edge enhancement or digital noise reduction (DNR), the presentation is clean and visually appealing. Though minor points of near-crushing black levels persist in some darker moments, the enhancements in clarity, depth, and color fidelity make this release stand out. It's an exceptional upgrade that showcases the meticulous remastering efforts, ensuring a detailed and visually satisfying experience for viewers.

The sole audio track on the "Mississippi Burning" Blu-ray release features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix. Alongside this, optional English SDH subtitles are available for the main feature. While the 2.0 mix delivers clean dialogue, robust action sounds, and a commendable Trevor Jones score, it falls short in terms of dynamic range and spatial atmosphere. The sound remains confined within the stereo channels, lacking the expansive quality that would enhance quieter sequences and more intimate character exchanges.

Despite these limitations, the existing DTS-HD MA 2.0 track serves its purpose effectively, offering clear and well-leveled audio free of distortions such as hiss or pops. There are particular scenes, like the civil rights march and Navy movements through swamps, where the sound mix does rise to the occasion, but these moments are sparse. While the mix maintains consistent quality that doesn't require volume adjustments, a more dynamic audio mix might have provided a richer and more immersive experience for the viewer. However, within its technical constraints, it remains a solid and effective auditory presentation.

The Blu-ray Extras for "Mississippi Burning" represent a strong selection that enhances contextual understanding and appreciation of the film. The main feature, an audio commentary by director Alan Parker, provides an in-depth look at the film's genesis, filming locations, narrative intricacies, and internal conflicts. Though originally recorded for a DVD release, the commentary remains insightful despite some lapses in flow. The absence of Trevor Jones' isolated score from the Twilight Time release is notable; its atmospheric qualities would have been a valuable addition. However, the extras still manage to deliver substantial content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: In-depth audio commentary with director Alan Parker discussing various aspects of the film.
• Trailer: A vintage trailer presenting an authentic preview of "Mississippi Burning."

Alan Parker's "Mississippi Burning" (1988) delivers a fiercely compelling portrayal of the investigation into the disappearance of three civil rights workers in rural Mississippi. Idealistic FBI Agent Ward (Willem Dafoe) and seasoned Agent Anderson (Gene Hackman) uncover the deeply ingrained racism that permeates the town. Hackman’s Oscar-nominated delivery stands as a testament to his intense commitment, capturing the raw tension and moral complexity with an intensity reminiscent of his role in "The French Connection". Willem Dafoe and Frances McDormand also deliver commendable performances, complementing the narrative's gravitas. Supporting actors like Stephen Tobolowsky and Michael Rooker add layers of discomfort as they seamlessly embody sinister small-town figures.

The film, while candidly brutal, oscillates between moments of fierce momentum and almost melodramatic introspection. Alan Parker’s direction hits its mark with scenes depicting raw hostility, though it occasionally teeters on becoming overly sentimental. Chris Gerolmo’s script bolsters the film’s impact when it addresses the systemic rot head-on but risks losing some of its intensity during more meditative sequences. Despite these fluctuations, "Mississippi Burning" retains its punch through its stark portrayal of racial tensions and unflinching depictions of violence.

While the film’s historical accuracy is debatable, its earnest effort to capture the era's tumultuous spirit is undeniable. This Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber includes essential features such as an archival audio commentary by Alan Parker and English SDH subtitles, providing both context and accessibility. The presentation maintains the film's gritty atmosphere while engaging viewers in an arresting and brutal thriller that, despite its imperfections, remains relevant and impactful decades later.

The recent Blu-ray release of Mississippi Burning by Kino Lorber Studio Classics showcases a significant upgrade thanks to an exceptional 4K remaster. This iteration enhances the visual quality remarkably, providing a notable improvement over previous releases. The narrative, centered on race relations in the Civil Rights era, is delivered through breathtaking performances by Gene Hackman, Frances McDormand, Willem Dafoe, and supporting actors like Brad Dourif and R. Lee Ermey. Although some characterizations and historical liberties are taken, the film maintains its powerful impact.

The technical aspects of this Blu-ray edition are commendable; the transfer delivers a more precise image, preserving the film’s gritty yet evocative visual style. Audio retains the archival commentary from director Alan Parker, adding depth and context to the viewing experience. Despite the lack of new bonus features, the archival materials included provide valuable insights into the film’s creation and its historical backdrop.

This recent release of Alan Parker's Mississippi Burning is sourced from a very nice 4K remaster that offers a strong upgrade in quality over previous releases of the film. It does not have any new bonus features. It retains the archival audio commentary that the director of the film recorded years ago and an old trailer. RECOMMENDED.