The Shining Blu-ray Review

Warner has significantly elevated the home viewing experience of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining" with its latest Blu-ray release, presenting the film in its original theatrical widescreen aspect ratio of 1.85:1, now adjusted to 1.78:1 to slightly open up the frame. The 1080p VC-1 encode reveals the ornate details of the Overlook Hotel with an unprecedented clarity, removing the constraints of previous home video formats plagued by color bleed, low resolution, and improper aspect ratios. This release showcases a meticulous cleaning process, likely involving digital noise reduction among other techniques, markedly improving upon the less refined presentations on VHS and DVD. While some may quibble about the digital processing, the resultant image—void of dirt, dropouts, and excessive grain—maintains a stable brightness and offers a depth that pulls the viewer into Kubrick's eerie universe.

Detail within the film's numerous settings—the clutter of Jack and Wendy's initial apartment, the ghostly lobby of the hotel, and the unforgettable decaying grandeur of Room 237—is now strikingly visible, enhancing both the atmospheric depth and the storytelling's visual intricacy. Outdoor scenes benefit immensely from this restoration, with early sequences showcasing the Overlook’s exterior and the surrounding landscapes achieving a crispness that aids in rendering these iconic shots as more haunting than ever. Additionally, this Blu-ray corrects color imbalances seen in previous editions, presenting hues that are not only stable and vibrant but also true to Kubrick's vision—deep blood reds, muted backdrops, and accurate skin tones contribute to a viewing experience that is both immersive and faithful to the original exhibition.

The detailed restoration work extends to the black levels and contrast, with dark scenes avoiding crushing and maintaining depth through robust black tones that shift to bluish as the narrative progresses into winter's grip. This balance ensures that each frame conveys the intended mood without sacrificing detail. The outdoor sequences, particularly the aerial flyby and the approach to the Overlook Hotel, display a refined clarity where even distant hills and thin clouds are discernible. In essence, Warner’s reissue not only celebrates "The Shining" as a seminal piece of film history but also sets a new standard for the preservation and appreciation of visual detail in home video releases.

The audio presentation of "The Shining" on Blu-ray features two English tracks, a high-definition PCM 5.1 at 4.6 Mbps and a standard Dolby Digital 5.1 at 640kbps. The PCM track, though limited by its 16-bit/48 kHz quality which parallels CD audio, provides a lush auditory experience. Despite its age and the film’s original mono source, the remixed soundtrack offers a clear, albeit not deeply dynamic, listening experience. Dialogue is consistently clear and well-centered, making every spoken word easily discernible against the backdrop of the film’s increasingly ominous score. However, the audio does not exploit the full potential of modern surround sound systems, with minimal use of the rear channels and a somewhat lacking low-frequency extension.

Wendy Carlos’ score, though showing its age with a synth sound that might not appeal to all, remains effective in setting the mood. It is predominantly front-heavy, with slight bleed into the rears that provides a modicum of ambiance but falls short of creating a truly enveloping experience. The high notes of the score are sharp and distinct, contributing significantly to the tension and atmosphere. Bass is present but not overwhelming, crescendoing alongside the film’s visual haunts but never reaching the depths that might have been achieved with a more contemporary mix.

In conclusion, while Warner Bros has made an effort to elevate "The Shining" with high-resolution audio, the limitations of the original recording hamper the outcome. The PCM track does outshine its Dolby Digital counterpart in clarity and richness, yet both tracks underwhelm in terms of surround sound imagery and dynamic range. The endeavor to modernize the soundtrack for this classic horror film is commendable but ultimately serves more as a testament to its time rather than a showcase of audio fidelity or immersive sound design.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Shining" are a well-curated blend of insights and behind-the-scenes footage that provide a deeper understanding of Kubrick's meticulous approach to filmmaking. Fans are treated to a full-length commentary by steadicam inventor Garrett Brown and John Baxter, Kubrick's biographer, which, though somewhat dry, offers detailed observations on the film's iconic sequences. "The Making of The Shining" by Vivian Kubrick is a standout, offering unprecedented access to the set and revealing the intense dynamics between Kubrick and Shelley Duvall. Additionally, new featurettes including interviews with key collaborators like screenwriter Diane Johnson and composer Wendy Carlos, alongside reflections from A-list directors on Kubrick's work, enrich the viewing experience. While some may find the volume of familiar faces and content slightly repetitive, the overall quality and depth of material make this Blu-ray a valuable addition for Kubrick aficionados.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Garrett Brown and John Baxter: Insightful yet formal commentary.
• A View From The Overlook: Crafting The Shining: Documentary featuring Spielberg and others on the film's production.
• The Visions of Stanley Kubrick: Short documentary on Kubrick's filmmaking techniques.
• The Making Of The Shining: Behind-the-scenes footage by Vivian Kubrick, including actor interviews.
• Wendy Carlos, Composer: Brief feature on the film's electronic music score.
• Original Trailer: The film's original trailer, presenting a quaint, less revealing look compared to modern trailers.

Stanley Kubrick's rendition of "The Shining" emerges as a landmark in horror cinema, despite its departure from Stephen King’s original novel. The film intricately explores the psychological breakdown of Jack Torrance, brilliantly portrayed by Jack Nicholson, whose descent into madness within the confines of the eerie Overlook Hotel forms the crux of the narrative. Kubrick elevates the story beyond a mere haunting, delving deep into themes of isolation, insanity, and the supernatural. Nicholson's performance is particularly accentuated in the 1080p Blu-ray presentation, making his portrayal all the more menacing. The Blu-ray format enhances visual details, rendering the chilling atmosphere of the Overlook with stark clarity and vivid colors, thanks to an improved aspect ratio of 1.78:1.

Despite initial criticisms surrounding its slow pacing and deviation from traditional horror elements, "The Shining" has undergone a reevaluation over time. Critics and audiences alike now celebrate the film for its atmospheric tension and psychological depth, recognizing it as a masterclass in horror filmmaking. Kubrick's methodical pacing and unconventional narrative techniques contribute to the movie's lingering dread, culminating in intensely shocking moments that have since become iconic. The presentation on Blu-ray breathes new life into these scenes, offering a visual feast that underscores Kubrick's genius in crafting horror through imagery.

However, the film’s fidelity to its source material and some of Kubrick’s more cryptic symbolism have been points of contention. The adaptation significantly alters characters and thematic elements from King’s novel, leading to King’s own criticism of the film. Yet, these deviations contribute to "The Shining's" unique appeal, showcasing Kubrick's visionary approach to storytelling. The Blu-ray release not only offers superior visual and auditory quality but also provides an opportunity for both new audiences and longtime fans to experience Kubrick's intricate design and Nicholson's compelling performance in unparalleled clarity. This release solidifies "The Shining" not just as a seminal work in the horror genre but as a profound exploration of human frailty against a backdrop of palpable terror.

"The Shining," Stanley Kubrick's masterful adaptation that continues to haunt and intrigue audiences years after its initial release, makes a chilling comeback in its Blu-Ray presentation. The film, known for its slow-burn terror and psychological depth, is presented with a clarity that heightens every suspenseful moment and the eerie calm of the Overlook Hotel. Jack Nicholson's portrayal of Jack Torrance offers a menacing glimpse into a man slowly succumbing to madness, brilliantly contrasted by the innocent yet aware Danny. This Blu-Ray edition captures the essence of their performances with exceptional detail, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the unsettling dynamic between father and son. However, it's not without its flaws; an issue with color grading is noticeable at times but doesn't significantly detract from the overall experience.

Supplemental materials provided with this release offer invaluable insights into Kubrick's meticulous craft, adding layers to the viewing experience for both new audiences and long-time fans. While some may find the pacing deliberate, it's a signature of Kubrick's style that contributes to the film's oppressive atmosphere. Technical aspects of the Blu-Ray, including the remastered video and the high-definition audio mix, have generally met expectations, though some purists might argue the audio remix does not surpass the original. The visual transfer is particularly notable for its improvement over previous versions, showcasing the film's iconic visuals in stunning clarity.

In conclusion, this Blu-Ray edition of "The Shining" stands as a definitive version for collectors and enthusiasts alike. While it presents minor technical imperfections, they are overshadowed by the overall quality of the transfer and the wealth of supplementary content. This release not only pays homage to Kubrick's visionary work but also ensures that the chilling legacy of "The Shining" will continue to captivate and terrify audiences for generations to come. Recommended without reservation, it's a must-have for those looking to explore the depths of this cinematic masterpiece in high definition.