An Unmarried Woman Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of "An Unmarried Woman" boasts a 1080p transfer that is both highly detailed and visually engaging. This new 4K digital restoration was undertaken by the Twentieth Century Fox Film Restoration Department, with the digital transfer created from the 35mm original camera negative and restored at Cineric in New York. The monaural soundtrack was similarly remastered from a 35mm DME magnetic master at Audio Mechanics in Burbank, California. The film appears pristine, marked by a consistent density and fluidity that are often hallmarks of top-tier 4K masters.

However, despite these technical strengths, some elements of the new master may prove contentious. The grading emphasizes a light golden hue that periodically destabilizes primary colors and supporting nuances, affecting the film’s native dynamic range. Darker areas often appear flat and lose fine details, resulting in noticeable fluctuations in grain exposure that can seem unnatural. Moreover, tonal shifts occasionally appear artificial, a sentiment echoed in similar restoration efforts from Fox, such as their work on "3 Women" and "Porky's." Overall, while the Blu-ray offers a generally strong technical presentation, the color grading may come across as problematic for purists seeking fidelity to the film’s original dynamic range.

The video quality otherwise does an admirable job capturing the film's original theatrical experience. Sharpness varies, an aspect faithful to the original photography which sometimes appears soft or milky without any clear reason. Still, the transfer’s accuracy to the source material speaks well of Criterion’s commitment to preserving cinematic history. For those prioritizing visual fidelity and restoration efforts, this Blu-ray release of "An Unmarried Woman" remains a commendable, albeit imperfect, addition to any collection.

The Blu-ray release of "An Unmarried Woman" features a singular audio track: English LPCM Mono at 48kHz, 24-bit. Optional English SDH subtitles are available for the main feature. This lossless Mono track impresses with its clarity, sharpness, depth, and stability, especially considering the film’s original production era. Despite the inherently limited dynamic opportunities in the dialogue-driven narrative, turning up the volume reveals impressive dynamic contrasts.

Bill Conti’s jazzy score is showcased well within the PCM 2.0 mono soundtrack. The dialogue is exceptionally clear and is expertly balanced against the background score and sound effects. Notably, the audio retains its integrity without any age-related disturbances such as hiss, pops, crackle, or flutter. Overall, the mix exemplifies a professional standard that successfully preserves and enhances the nostalgic auditory experience of the film.

The extras for the Blu Ray edition of "An Unmarried Woman" present a compelling and comprehensive array of supplementary content, offering both retrospective and contemporaneous insights into the film and its creation. The standout features include interviews with key cast members such as Michael Murphy, who poignantly reminisces about his character’s haunting impact, and Lisa Lucas, who shares personal anecdotes about working with director Paul Mazursky. Author Sam Wasson provides an incisive video essay on Mazursky's directorial nuances. Furthermore, the inclusion of an archival audio commentary track with Mazursky and star Jill Clayburgh delivers in-depth discussions on specific scenes, shot choices, and thematic elements of the film. Notable is the extensive audio recording of Mazursky's 1980 AFI lecture, offering valuable historical context and director’s insights. The package is rounded off with a vintage trailer and an illustrated leaflet, enriching the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: A vintage trailer for "An Unmarried Woman".
• Michael Murphy: A new interview where the actor reflects on his role and collaboration.
• Lisa Lucas: A new interview discussing her experiences and Mazursky’s directorial style.
• Sam Wasson: A video essay analyzing Mazursky's unique filmmaking approach and themes.
• Paul Mazursky at the AFI: An audio recording from a 1980 lecture by Mazursky.
• Commentary: Archival audio commentary featuring Paul Mazursky and Jill Clayburgh.
• Leaflet: An illustrated leaflet with an essay by critic Angelica Jade Bastién.

Paul Mazursky's "An Unmarried Woman" remains a poignant exploration of the upheaval following a midlife divorce, portraying its themes with a resonance that endures across decades. The narrative centers on Erica (Jill Clayburgh), whose seemingly stable existence is thrown into chaos when her husband Martin (Michael Murphy) abruptly leaves her for a younger woman. What follows is an acute dissection of Erica’s journey to reclaim her identity amidst betrayal and confusion. With the support of her therapist and girlfriends, Erica navigates the fraught terrain of single life and forms a connection with artist Saul Kaplan (Alan Bates). This relationship compels her to re-evaluate her desires and the nature of independence.

Mazursky’s direction is both straightforward and occasionally indulgent, showcasing the subtleties of urban life upheaval with realistic yet graceful visual storytelling. The film is divided into three distinct acts: life pre-separation, the immediate aftermath of the marital collapse, and Erica’s subsequent efforts to forge a new path. Notably, Jill Clayburgh’s performance, lauded with awards and nominations, encapsulates the raw vulnerability and slow empowerment of her character. Murphy’s portrayal of the husband leaves an imprint as an unfaithful, yet remorseful partner, while Bates renders Saul as charming and genuinely open-minded, albeit not without traditional male expectations.

The organic interactions, particularly in social settings, are enriched by performances from supporting actors such as Lisa Lucas, who plays Erica's observant daughter, and Erica’s friends, who add texture to the narrative’s depiction of midlife reassessment. The coherence and relatability of Erica's transformation invite viewers into a reflective dialogue on personal growth post-divorce, spotlighting the intricate dynamics of friendship, societal roles, and self-discovery. By capturing these elements with nuance, "An Unmarried Woman" stands out as a balanced yet unflinchingly honest depiction of emotional resurrection and modern womanhood.

Paul Mazursky's "An Unmarried Woman," nominated for the Best Picture Oscar in 1978, provides a perceptive exploration of womanhood amidst the shifting societal expectations of the late 20th century. Jill Clayburgh's portrayal of Erica, a woman navigating her own transformation post-divorce, is compelling and carries the narrative through some arguably contrived scenarios. Her journey, shaped by the affluent environment she inhabits and the varying expectations imposed on her, delivers emotional resonance that may or may not align with all viewers' sensitivities.

The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray release of "An Unmarried Woman" is sourced from a newly minted 4K master, ensuring pristine video and audio quality that enhances the film's aesthetic experience. While the transfer is impeccable, some may find the color scheme less convincing. As such, those considering adding this film to their collection might benefit from a preliminary viewing to confirm if it meets their visual preferences.

In conclusion, "An Unmarried Woman" offers a thought-provoking glimpse into personal transformation influenced by external societal pressures. The top-tier technical quality of the Criterion release makes it an attractive purchase, although a trial viewing is advisable to ensure it meets individual visual standards. For those invested in cinematic studies or explorations of gender roles, it remains a valuable piece worth experiencing.