Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of approximately 2.56:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Flicker Alley's Blu-ray release of "Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich" offers a significant upgrade in video quality. Processed from the original camera negative scanned in 2K at FotoKem, this 1080p transfer dramatically outperforms previous editions. Although minor age-related imperfections remain, such as slight density inconsistencies due to secondary sources, the overall image stability and consistency have seen marked improvements. The color saturation and balance exhibit enhanced luminosity and accuracy, introducing new color values that were previously absent. Additionally, background flicker, debris, and blotches have been significantly minimized, providing a cleaner viewing experience.

This release employs the Smilebox format to faithfully preserve the original Cinemiracle presentation's aspect ratio and screen geometry. The join lines between the three-panel elements have been expertly blended, rendering them nearly invisible for most of the film. Where they do exist, they remain unobtrusive. The blending of the panels surpasses even that seen on the recent "This Is Cinerama" Deluxe Edition, with color matching between panels achieved at an exceptional level. Clarity and fine detail frequently reach stunning degrees, removing nearly all age-related artifacts such as scratches and debris. While color intensity appears slightly weaker than "This Is Cinerama" in rare instances, the overall presentation remains overwhelmingly breathtaking. Through these meticulous restorations, "Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich" likely achieves what will be its definitive Blu-ray presentation for future viewers.

The Blu-ray release of "Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich" features a single audio track in English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, without optional English SDH subtitles. The lossless DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track is truly remarkable and showcases the multi-track sound capabilities inherent in the Cinemiracle format. This mix provides an engaging and expansive soundscape that situates the viewer amidst the various dynamic environments depicted in the film, such as the vast ocean, vibrant musical performances, or bustling dock scenes.

The audio presentation maintains a stable and dynamic balance, with particular strengths in depth and clarity, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. The lossless quality of the track serves the high-definition format well, delivering a sound that is almost devoid of age-related artifacts. While a theatrical screening offers a unique auditory experience, the Blu-ray's audio quality successfully translates the film’s inherent sound dynamics, making it an excellent choice for home viewing.

The Blu-ray of "Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich" offers a robust collection of extras that significantly enhances the viewing experience. These supplements, expertly curated, delve into both the historical context and technical intricacies of the film's production and restoration. The standout feature is "The Windjammer Voyage: A Cinemiracle Adventure," a compelling documentary showcasing in-depth interviews with the cast and crew. Another notable inclusion, "The Reconstruction of Windjammer," provides a fascinating look at the meticulous 2K restoration process. The breakdown reel offers a unique glimpse into emergency procedures for Cinerama and Cinemiracle presentations, while contemporary footage of the Christian Radich highlights the vessel's ongoing legacy. Complemented by insightful slideshows and a beautifully illustrated booklet, these extras provide a comprehensive understanding of this cinematic marvel's enduring impact.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Windjammer Voyage: A Cinemiracle Adventure: In-depth documentary by Dave Strohmaier with interviews and insights from the cast and crew.
• The Reconstruction of Windjammer: Documentary on the 2K restoration process narrated by David Strohmaier.
• Windjammer Breakdown Reel: Emergency reel used during the original screenings.
• The Christian Radich Today: Featurette on the ship's legacy, featuring footage from the 2010 Tall Ships Festival.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer from the new restoration.
• Windjammer Behind the Scenes Slideshow: Compilation of behind-the-scenes images.
• Cinemiracle Showplaces Slideshow: Photos and blueprints of the original venues.
• Booklet: 12-page illustrated booklet with an essay by Randy Gitsch.

Bill Colleran and Louis De Rochemont III's Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich (1958) offers a unique cinematic experience that mirrors what IMAX does for contemporary audiences. Filmed using the Cinemiracle process, which employs three cameras and projectors to create an immersive widescreen effect, the film captures the stunning voyage of the Norwegian training ship, Christian Radich, as it journeys from Oslo to America. Unlike traditional travelogues, Windjammer merges documentary-style exploration with a slight narrative touch, thanks to its focus on a specific crew of teenage cadets and their nautical adventures.

The voyage is a visual treat, visiting diverse locations such as Madeira, Puerto Rico, Curacao, and New York City. Highlights include a thrilling basket-sled ride in Madeira, a performance by the renowned cellist Pablo Casals in Puerto Rico, and vibrant festivities in Trinidad. The filmmakers' use of Cinemiracle presents breathtaking ocean vistas and underwater scenes with remarkable depth and clarity. Particularly notable is a stunning shot captured from a submarine surfacing to reveal the Christian Radich on the horizon. This visual prowess is complemented beautifully by a soundtrack featuring both cadets' musical performances and local musicians in various ports of call.

Though the film includes minor dramatic elements—such as a subplot about a lost dog—the essence remains a charming and leisurely exploration of both the high seas and the rich cultures visited. The Smilebox curved screen simulation on the Blu-ray successfully mimics the original theatrical experience, allowing modern viewers a taste of the film’s grand scale. This new restoration by HTF’s David Strohmaier is an impressive achievement, making Windjammer a delightful time capsule and a must-see for fans of classic cinema and maritime history alike.

Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich is a stellar release in Flicker Alley's Cinerama series, now presented with a brand-new 2K restoration and reconstruction by David Strohmaier and his team. This Deluxe Edition offers a significant enhancement over the previous Blu-ray release from 2012, with its impeccably restored visuals bringing the immersive three-panel format to life in a way that is both engaging and relaxing. The film remains one of the better travelogues in its category, noted for its stunning visuals that capture the majestic voyage of the Christian Radich.

The technical aspects of this release are exemplary. The new restoration provides crisp picture quality, enhancing the film's panoramic sequences and intricate details. The audio mix complements the visual upgrade, providing a balanced and immersive experience. In addition to the main feature, the included bonus features deliver rich, insightful content that adds substantial value to this release, making it an essential pick for enthusiasts of three-panel films and classic travelogues alike.

This is the one title from Flicker Alley's Cinerama series that after it was released on Blu-ray in 2012 I have revisited the most. I just find it incredibly relaxing, and the visuals are often stunning. This new Deluxe Edition of Windjammer: The Voyage of the Christian Radich offers a brand new 2K restoration and reconstruction of the film that was completed by David Strohmaier and his team and the end result is quite impressive. Do not hesitate to upgrade, folks. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.