To Be or Not to Be Blu-ray Review

In reviewing the video presentation of the Blu-ray release of "To Be or Not to Be," it becomes apparent that the transfer employs an MPEG-4 AVC-encoded BD-50 disc, maintaining the original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The transfer, with an average video bitrate of 27953 kbps, demonstrates a reasonable level of detail, though it is evident that this presentation could significantly benefit from a more modern scan. The disc includes twenty scene selections, which aligns with the functionality typically expected from similar releases.

However, upon closer inspection, the Blu-ray's visual fidelity falls short of contemporary standards. Originating from a master likely intended for SD display, the image suffers from an overall lack of definition due to light digital filtering. This filtering creates a waxy appearance and disrupts the natural film grain, resulting in a busy and non-filmic texture that is particularly noticeable during scenes featuring Anne Bancroft. The attempts at traditional Hollywood elegance through image blooming appear overdone and imprecise after digital processing, further detracting from the overall clarity and sharpness.

The color palette fares no better, displaying flat and desaturated hues that strip the images of their intended vibrancy. Black levels lack depth, compromising the contrast and diminishing any inherent dimensionality of the original film stock. This issues collectively underscore a need for a significant restoration effort to restore the film's visual integrity to its former glory. As it stands, the presentation does not fully do justice to "To Be or Not to Be," and enthusiasts might find themselves longing for a more carefully remastered edition.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "To Be or Not to Be" offers an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround remix, encoded at 3648 kbps and 24-bit, alongside the original Dolby Surround 2.0 stereo mix with 48 kHz and 224 kbps. Additional language options include mono tracks in French, Spanish, and a lossy 5.1 Portuguese dub. Subtitling options extend across English SDH, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Portuguese, accommodating a broad international audience.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 remix presents some challenges. The dialog often strains and sounds tinny throughout the runtime, indicating a lack of preparedness for modern home theater setups. The surround features are subtle; brief stereo flourishes only marginally enhance the soundstage, primarily during key sequences like the Poland bombing, which introduces light bass and a passable soundstage. The score is distributed across the speakers effectively, maintaining clarity amidst other audio elements. Although additional effects, such as a plane taking off in the finale, attempt to utilize surround capabilities, these instances are sporadic and do not fully leverage the potential of the 5.1 mix.

This audio package reveals a disparity between modern audio expectations and the source material's aging limitations. The Dolby Surround 2.0 stereo mix remains an option for purists seeking the original sound experience, yet it too falls short of dynamic range expectations. Given these factors, the audio presentation's strengths lie primarily in musical clarity rather than immersive surround effects.

The extras for the Blu-ray release of "To Be or Not to Be" offer a robust and engaging variety of content. "Brooks and Bancroft: A Perfect Pair" provides insightful reflections from surviving cast and crew, making this 15-minute feature a valuable behind-the-scenes piece. Mel Brooks' humorous yet rare serious take is showcased in "How Serious Can Mel Brooks Really Get?" The vintage interviews with Brooks, Bancroft, and Durning add a nostalgic touch, supplementing the experience with authentic perspectives from the time of the film’s original release. The isolated score in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 ensures a high-quality audio experience, while the feature-length trivia track offers engaging interactivity. The collection is rounded out by various trailers, including those for several Mel Brooks classics.

Extras included in this disc:

• Brooks and Bancroft: A Perfect Pair: Surviving cast and crew reminisce about the project.
• How Serious Can Mel Brooks Really Get?: A short '80s promo for the film.
• Profiles: Vintage interviews with Mel Brooks, Anne Bancroft, and Charles Durning.
• To Be or Not to Be: That Is the Trivia!: Feature-length trivia track.
• Mel Brooks Trailers: Bonus trailers for multiple Mel Brooks films.
• Trailers: Theatrical trailer and Portuguese trailer for "To Be or Not to Be".
• Isolated Score Track: Uncompressed DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.

Shout Select has reissued Mel Brooks's "To Be or Not to Be" (1983) in its eight-disc box set, The Anne Bancroft Collection. This '80s remake of the 1942 anti-Nazi farce adapts the narrative with a touch of contemporary political backdrop, maintaining its relevance despite the changed exterior political conditions. Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft head a lively cast as a Polish theater troupe that mocks Nazi incompetence while engaging in acts of resistance. The film notably includes the depiction of the pink triangles marking homosexuals as undesirables—a detail that underscores its historical resonance. However, the production's budget constraints are visible, giving many sets a somewhat worn and theatrical appearance, aimed at translating a stage aesthetic to the screen.

Despite the relatively low production values, "To Be or Not to Be" succeeds in delivering sharp comedic content. The film portrays every Nazi as inept, similarly to its 1942 predecessor. Moments such as Frederick Bronski (played by Brooks), disguised as Hitler, responding to "Heil Hitler" with "Heil myself!" highlight the comedic irreverence directed at the regime. The narrative derives humor from the troupe's blatant blunders going unnoticed by Nazi higher-ups. Peaking in a dramatic scene where a kidnapped Jew pleads with real Nazis for understanding, although juxtaposed with Brooks’s over-the-top Hitler impersonation, these moments manage to impart significant emotional weight.

In sum, while thin in production finesse, "To Be or Not to Be" offers a seamless blend of satire and socio-political commentary, highlighted by standout performances from Brooks and Bancroft. The movie sustains its message of resistance and rebellion through humor, making it an essential piece of both historical reflection and entertainment.

To Be or Not to Be, presented on Blu-ray as part of the Bancroft and/or Brooks box sets, offers a thoroughly delightful and sharp-witted experience. The transfer quality is commendable, with clear visuals and a rich color palette that highlights the film’s comedic and dramatic elements effectively. The sound mix has also been skillfully balanced, ensuring dialogue is crisp and sound effects are appropriately leveled. Technical enthusiasts will appreciate the careful restoration work that maintains the film’s integrity while enhancing its audiovisual presentation.

The film itself, a remake set in a less chaotic era than the 1942 original, retains its charm and relevance due to its humor and universal message. The performances of the cast, led by the ever-dynamic duo Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft, bring an infectious energy that is both entertaining and poignant. The Blu-ray contains thoughtful extras that provide context and deepen appreciation for both the production’s historical backdrop and its continued relevance.

For whatever reason, Fox has never given To Be or Not to Be an individual release, so you'll need to purchase the Bancroft and/or Brooks box sets to get it. Between Black Friday and the New Year, I've often seen the nine-movie set, The Mel Brooks Collection, offered for $19.99. Fox reissued the box set twice and please use the link in this section if you decide to purchase it. It's presently offered at full price ($100), so you may want to wait for it to dip or buy this collection, which is currently $40 less. RECOMMENDED.