Play It Again, Sam Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of "Play It Again, Sam" by Kino Lorber features a remarkable 1080p transfer derived from an updated 4K restoration completed by Paramount Pictures. This restoration breathes new life into the film, offering a vibrant and healthy visual experience throughout. The detail and clarity of the delineation offer impressive depth, with the image appearing as if it were from a freshly minted 1970s print. Grain is well-resolved and naturally exposed, free from artificial digital corrections.

The color reproduction is exceptionally balanced, capturing realistic skin tones effectively, as evidenced by the noticeable details on Woody Allen's freckles. Although most of the color work is commendable, there is an issue with one sequence where the primary blue shifts to an unnatural light teal. Despite this minor flaw, the film overall boasts excellent image stability without any age-related anomalies. The stunning views of San Francisco are richly showcased, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the setting.

This Region-A locked release necessitates a compatible player for viewing. For those who can access it, this presentation encapsulates the film’s historical and aesthetic charm. The visual treatment ensures that the essence of the original negative is preserved with a modern edge, making it a worthwhile addition for classic film enthusiasts looking to experience "Play It Again, Sam" in a format that respects its original cinematic qualities.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Play It Again, Sam" is anchored by a singular English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. This mix is a solid representation of the era's sound characteristics, providing a faithful reproduction of the film's original audio dynamics. While the mix avoids enhancements typical of modern soundtracks, it maintains clarity, with dialogue remaining sharp and easy to follow. Any dynamic unevenness or momentary thinning is inherent to the original recording, reflecting an authentic vintage audio experience.

The new 4K scan of the original camera negative has elevated the overall audiovisual experience, with this Blu-ray version delivering superior visual quality that complements its strong audio counterpart. Though bass presence is minimal in this mono mix, the soundtrack excels in maintaining balance and coherence throughout the film. Billy Goldenberg's background score, enriched with references to Max Steiner’s "Casablanca" and “As Time Goes By,” integrates seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing emotional resonance without overpowering other elements. Crucially, the absence of anomalies such as hiss, pops, crackle, or flutter underscores the technical proficiency of this release.

Subtitles optional in English support viewer accessibility, ensuring that dialogue intricacy remains comprehensible for all audiences. This Blu-ray edition offers a pristine audio experience that both honors the film's historical context and satisfies modern auditory expectations. The attention to detail in preserving and enhancing original sound elements makes it a noteworthy addition to any film enthusiast's collection.

The Blu-ray extras for "Play It Again, Sam" provide intriguing insights and engage viewers with a deeper understanding of the film's development and legacy. The exclusive audio commentary by screenwriter Alan Spencer and critic Justin Humphreys provides a dynamic discussion that delves into distinctions between the film and the play, lauds the director's vision, and highlights different actors' portrayals of the lead role on stage. The inclusion of vintage trailers adds a nostalgic touch that embraces the film's era. This combination of audio-visual extras makes the disc a valuable resource for both enthusiasts and scholars of Woody Allen's work, enriching the cinematic experience imminently.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Exclusive audio commentary by Alan Spencer and Justin Humphreys discussing film-play differences and director appreciation.
• Trailer: A vintage trailer for "Play It Again, Sam" showcasing its original release style.

Herbert Ross' "Play It Again, Sam" (1972), while directed by Ross, undeniably exudes Woody Allen's essence as its writer and star. This Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber adeptly captures the comedy's spirit with meticulous attention to cinematic detail. The plot follows Allan Felix, portrayed by Allen, a neurotic film critic grappling with dating woes after his wife Nancy leaves him. Allen excels in channeling his hallmark comedic style, blending self-deprecating humor with slapstick elements, as Allan fumbles through romantic misadventures. The invocation of cinematic icon Humphrey Bogart, played by Jerry Lacy, offers comedic guidance and fortifies the motif of cinema's escapist allure in Allen's work.

Despite being a dated piece from the early '70s, "Play It Again, Sam" holds intrigue in its mirroring of Allen's transitional career phase. Known for distinct roles as a writer-director-star, Allen leveraged this adaptation of his 1969 play to expand his audience beyond the niche appeal of his earlier films, "Take the Money and Run" and "Bananas." The film's setting in San Francisco adds an alluring backdrop for Allan's antics. Diane Keaton and Tony Roberts add dimension with their reprise of roles from the Broadway production, further elevating the film's narrative depth.

The film is a quintessential exploration of Allen's themes—romantic neuroses and the illusory screen-world desires. The dynamic between Allan and Bogart delivers some of the most humorous sequences, accentuating the comedic input from Jerry Lacy's Bogart impression. In contrast, Allan's connection with Linda, captured amidst humorously inept romantic endeavors, underscores the film’s enduring appeal. Though the comedy sometimes draws from darker themes around male archetypes, it ultimately remains a nuanced exhibit of Woody Allen's early comedic prowess and serves as a pivotal reference point for his subsequent acclaimed works.

Herbert Ross’ "Play It Again, Sam" is a comedic exploration where Woody Allen navigates the complexities of humor and character authenticity with his portrayal of a bachelor film critic. His performance, intertwining comedy with elements of awkwardness and discomfort, showcases a daring comedic narrative that would be scarcely approached in contemporary cinema. The film's script, characterized by its boldness, is complemented by Allen's authentic execution of a multifaceted persona that engages and challenges both viewers and their perceptions of comedy.

The Kino Lorber Blu-ray release benefits from a new 4K master sourced from Paramount Pictures, enhancing the film's visual appeal to deliver a viewing experience that revitalizes the original charm of the movie. While the audio commentary by screenwriter-producer Alan Spencer and film historian Justin Humphreys provides valuable insights into the film's production and legacy, it stands as a rare addition for a Woody Allen film. Despite this, the accompanying trailer, presented in a less flattering 4:3 full-frame format, detracts slightly from the overall package quality.

In conclusion, "Play It Again, Sam" impressively blends humor with authentic character portrayals, challenging conventional comedic boundaries. With Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release, enriched by a high-definition scan and engaging commentary, the film is a testament to Allen's unique comedic style and remains a recommended addition for audiences seeking both nostalgia and insightful cinematic storytelling.