Fiddler on the Roof Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Fiddler on the Roof" on Blu-ray is a faithful and commendable representation of the original film. The 1080p AVC encoded transfer at a 2.34:1 aspect ratio preserves the unique visual style that Oswald Morris' cinematography is known for. This includes the intended diffused, slightly surreal look achieved through the use of a silk stocking filter, as noted by the director himself. The Blu-ray painstakingly maintains this aesthetic, offering excellent color reproduction, despite a slight initial pallor after the Entr'acte, and exceptional clarity. Fine details are prominently visible, showcasing nuances such as facial features with surprising depth. Although a few blemishes and occasional flicker are present, grain structure remains intact, enhancing the film's textured appearance.

In comparison to other recent MGM releases, which have been criticized for subpar video quality, this 40th-anniversary edition of "Fiddler on the Roof" demonstrates considerable attention to detail and care in its transfer. While not as extensively restored as some other classic titles, it stands out within MGM's portfolio. The notorious softness of the film's focus is preserved accurately, lending authenticity to the viewing experience. Strong color fidelity and deep black levels contribute to a visually compelling presentation, unmarred by significant noise. However, a few scenes present notable imperfections; for instance, during the aftermath of the wedding attack (1:51:20), viewers may notice increased noise and scratches accompanying the zoom-out shot. Despite these minor drawbacks, MGM's treatment of "Fiddler on the Roof" ensures it remains visually engaging and true to its original cinematic roots.

The Blu-ray release of "Fiddler on the Roof" boasts a fresh lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix, which generally delivers a dynamic and immersive sound experience. The Bock-Harnick score shines with renewed vitality, and the lustrous tones of John Williams’ orchestration are notably rich and warm. Sound effects are intelligently placed, enhancing the environmental authenticity, particularly evident in the film's quiet opening sequence. Dialogue is crystal clear, seamlessly positioned within the soundstage. However, the heightened fidelity reveals some inherent flaws in the original audio stems, such as a slight fuzziness in specific instances, like Michele Marsh's dialogue before "Matchmaker".

The surrounds are particularly engaging, effectively capturing the bustling ambiance of town square scenes. However, despite these successes, there are notable drawbacks, particularly concerning audio synchronization. Around the two-hour mark, substantial audio sync issues emerge, becoming blatantly noticeable at 2:06:34 where Tevye's wife's line, "Do I what?", and following song are significantly out of sync. Moreover, at 2:25:15, an entire line of dialogue mysteriously drops out. These sync discrepancies and the missing line impact the overall viewing experience and were absent or less pronounced in the accompanying DVD edition, raising questions about quality control in this major audio overhaul.

Overall, while the new DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 mix for "Fiddler on the Roof" provides an impressive auditory experience that revitalizes its storied musical score and sound effects, it is marred by notable synchronization issues and occasional dialogue dropouts. These faults detract from an otherwise commendable audio presentation and should be considered by potential viewers seeking an optimal viewing experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Fiddler on the Roof" are a comprehensive collection of insightful and historically rich content. The audio commentary by Norman Jewison and Topol is an informative retrospective, despite being recorded separately, piecing together fascinating details about the film's production in Yugoslavia. The primary featurette, Norman Jewison Filmmaker, is a vintage making-of piece that delves into the myriad challenges of filming on location. Additional snippets in Norman Jewison Looks Back cover crucial anecdotal aspects such as weather difficulties, casting decisions, and the film’s universal themes. A standout extra, Tevye's Dream in Color, presents the sequence in its original vibrant hues. Furthermore, John Williams: Creating a Musical Tradition highlights the composer’s role, while interviews and retrospectives such as Tevye's Daughters and Songs of Fiddler on the Roof offer valuable personal insights from cast and collaborators.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Jewison and Topol: Detailed discussions on filming and personal anecdotes.
• Norman Jewison Filmmaker: Behind-the-scenes featurette focusing on production challenges.
• Norman Jewison Looks Back: Snippets covering various production topics.
• Tevye’s Dream in Color: The dream sequence as originally shot.
• Side By Side Comparison: Split-screen view of the original vs desaturated dream sequence.
• John Williams: Creating a Musical Tradition: Exploration of Williams' contribution to the score.
• Songs of Fiddler on the Roof: Interviews with original musical collaborators.
• Deleted Song: Any Day Now: A demo song meant to introduce Perchik.
• Tevye’s Daughters: Retrospective interviews with the actresses playing Tevye’s eldest daughters.
• Set in Reality: Production Design: Insight into Robert Boyle’s production design.
• Storyboard to Film Comparison: Visual comparison of storyboards to final scenes.
• Trailers, Teasers, and TV Spots
• Standard Definition DVD copy of the film

Norman Jewison’s 1971 film adaptation of “Fiddler on the Roof” remains a towering achievement in musical cinema, brilliantly capturing the essence of the beloved Broadway production while injecting his own cinematic flair. Set in pre-revolutionary Russia, the story delves deeply into the life of Tevye, a Jewish peasant who grapples with maintaining tradition amidst societal change. Played by Chaim Topol, Tevye’s character is rendered with heartfelt nuance, blending humor with profound emotional depth, notably in his dialogues that break the fourth wall and provide introspection. Jewison’s direction, supported by the visually stunning cinematography of Oswald Morris and John Williams' Oscar-winning musical adaptation, crafts a film that balances intimate performances with expansive, evocative visuals.

The narrative thrives on its poignant depiction of Tevye’s family struggles against a backdrop of impending upheaval. While tradition forms the cornerstone of Tevye’s world, his three daughters challenge and slowly dismantle these long-held beliefs by choosing paths influenced by love rather than duty. These personal conflicts are masterfully intertwined with broader societal tensions, making the story universal. Jewison’s adept handling of scenes such as “Tradition” showcases his ability to merge the grandeur of cinema with the intricacies of stage choreography, particularly through tight and dynamic editing by Antony Gibbs and Robert Lawrence.

Moreover, “Fiddler on the Roof” excels through its musical numbers, compellingly performed and seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Each song from the brilliant Bock-Harnick score not only stands out as an individual delight but also serves to drive the plot forward and deepen character development. The film's meticulous production design and period-accurate costumes enrich the storytelling, creating a vivid, immersive experience. This Blu-ray release ensures that Jewison’s cinematic masterpiece is accessible in a format that honors its stunning visuals and enduring musical legacy.

The Blu-ray release of "Fiddler on the Roof" presents a mixed bag, excelling in some areas while faltering in others. The film itself remains a celebrated musical classic, with a compelling portrayal of Tevye, whose vibrant humor and spirited demeanor infuse life into the narrative and its musical numbers. The video transfer, managed by MGM, is executed with commendable precision, delivering crisp and clear visuals that do justice to Norman Jewison's directorial finesse. However, the audio quality reveals notable shortcomings, including sync issues and a dropped line of dialogue which may disrupt the immersive experience for some viewers.

It should be noted that despite these technical flaws, the enduring charm and emotional depth of "Fiddler on the Roof" still shine through. The iconic score, lovingly adapted by John Williams, coupled with smart directorial choices, anchor the film’s relevance and immediacy. For those who are particularly sensitive to audio imperfections, renting the Blu-ray before purchasing might be a prudent approach to ensure personal satisfaction.

If you don't have a lump in your throat by the end of "Fiddler on the Roof," you might want to consult a coronary specialist to make sure you still have a heart. This beautifully tender and simultaneously hilariously raucous musical is a loving testament to the power of family in the face of change and hugely sweeping societal forces. Graced by one of the most iconic scores of the 1960s, lovingly adapted by John Williams and delivered to film with some very smart choices by director Norman Jewison, "Fiddler on the Roof" has lost none of its immediacy nor indeed its relevance. This new Blu-ray offers excellent image quality and should excite even those who normally are immune to the charms of film musicals. Very highly recommended.