The Secret of Santa Vittoria Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Secret of Santa Vittoria" delivers an often stunning 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Shot by celebrated Italian cinematographer Giuseppe Rotunno, the transfer captures the picturesque Italian village scenes with considerable finesse. The opening credits sequence, which appears almost woven under a burlap scrim, showcases a depth and clarity never before seen in the film's home video history. The stone architecture and surrounding foliage are rendered with highly detailed fine lines, while facial complexions appear natural and revealing. The Blu-ray maintains a consistent, natural layer of grain, ensuring there are no signs of aggressive digital sharpening or other image tweaking.

Colors on this Blu-ray are well-saturated and accurate, though viewers may notice some slight fluctuations in color temperature throughout the presentation. Contrast is robust, managing sun-dappled outdoor scenes and shrouded interiors with ease. Black levels are inky and true, offering deep, penetrating shadows that enhance the cinematic appeal of the film. Whites are bright and crisp, and the overall color palette is full-bodied and cleanly rendered. However, the source material shows its age in a few poorly-resolved sequences that are notably soft, mildly noisy, and exhibit noticeable ringing around objects. Despite these minor issues, the high-definition transfer remains in excellent shape and will undoubtedly satisfy fans of this classic film.

The audio presentation of "The Secret of Santa Vittoria" on Blu-ray showcases an exemplary DTS-HD Master Audio mono soundtrack that delivers an immersive and highly nuanced auditory experience. Despite the original mono mix, dialogue is crystal clear and imbued with warmth, ensuring that character interactions are engaging and intelligible, although heavy accents may occasionally require the audience's attention. Ernest Gold's vibrant score benefits from remarkable fidelity and dynamic range, providing a full-bodied, rich audio experience. The soundstage, while centered within a single channel, remains impressively broad and welcoming, demonstrating not the slightest hint of distortion.

Background noises are presented with meticulous clarity and separation, contributing significantly to the film's atmosphere. The orchestral elements of Gold's score exhibit outstanding separation and articulation, supported by a detailed mid-range that enhances the overall sonic environment. Low-frequency effects, although limited in a mono mix, offer appreciable depth and response when necessitated by the material. Overall, the precise prioritization of vocals and effects within this DTS-HD Master Audio ensure a sound mix that not only complements but elevates the visual presentation of this lighthearted war dramedy.

The Blu Ray release of "The Secret of Santa Vittoria" offers a commendable selection of extras that enhance the viewing experience. The Original Theatrical Trailer and the MGM 90th Anniversary Trailer are well-preserved in 1080p, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s promotion. The Isolated Score Track, presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo, is a highlight, allowing viewers to appreciate Ernest Gold’s Oscar-nominated music in its full, nuanced detail. This collection of extras is thoughtfully curated and serves as an essential complement to the feature presentation, offering historical context and a deeper auditory experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Original Theatrical Trailer: A glimpse into the film’s promotion in 1080p.
• MGM 90th Anniversary Trailer: Celebratory trailer in 1080p.
• Isolated Score Track: Ernest Gold's Oscar-nominated music in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo.

Stanley Kramer's "The Secret of Santa Vittoria," adapted from Robert Crichton's 1966 best-selling novel, presents a unique blend of comedy and drama. Set in an Italian village during World War II, the film deftly juxtaposes the serious historical backdrop with a boisterous and often whimsical narrative. Anthony Quinn delivers a standout performance as Italo Bombolini, the town drunk who finds himself appointed mayor in a hilarious twist of fate. The film opens on a high note with the townsfolk celebrating Mussolini's downfall in a childlike, exuberant manner, immediately setting a comedic tone. However, this levity occasionally undermines the plot's more serious moments, resulting in a sometimes awkward oscillation between farce and tension.

The scenic village of Santa Vittoria provides a picturesque setting for the unfolding drama. Kramer populates this charming locale with a colorful array of characters, including Anna Magnani as Bombolini's domineering wife Rosa and Giancarlo Giannini's Fabio, the educated voice of reason. As the narrative progresses, the villagers rally around Bombolini to hide their precious wine stockpile from the encroaching Nazis, led by the meticulously cast Hardy Kruger as Sepp Von Prum. These sequences are both visually stunning and emotionally charged, showcasing Kramer's ability to weave together a story that is both engaging and visually captivating.

While the film does suffer from occasional pacing issues and a somewhat musty feeling attributed to its middle-of-the-road 1960s sensibilities, it redeems itself through its robust characterizations and lush cinematography by Giuseppe Rotunno. Quinn's portrayal of Bombolini stands as the film's cornerstone, maintaining an upbeat quality that sustains audience interest even when the narrative lags. Kramer's film may not fully deliver on its potential for sociopolitical commentary, but it entertains with its spirited tale of collective resistance and unity against oppressive forces.

The Secret of Santa Vittoria' Blu-ray is an engaging showcase of Stanley Kramer's capable direction. With standout performances by Anthony Quinn, Hardy Krüger, Sergio Franchi, and Virna Lisi, the film captures the boisterous and energetic spirit of its historical setting. This release features an impressive audio and video presentation, ensuring that fans will appreciate the film’s original charm and visual quality. However, the absence of substantial supplemental content may leave some viewers wanting more in terms of added value.

Visually, the Blu-ray transfer is crisp and vibrant, highlighting the picturesque charm of the small Italian village that forms the backdrop for this narrative. The audio is equally praiseworthy, delivering a clear and immersive experience that complements the film’s lively atmosphere. While the technical presentation excels, the lack of additional features or behind-the-scenes insights feels like a missed opportunity to further enrich the viewing experience for audiences.

The Secret of Santa Vittoria is, kind of like the town it portrays, ungainly and a little chaotic. But much like the townspeople it portrays, the film also has a surplus of heart, and that aspect carries it through some of the lethargic elements. Buoyed by an absolutely first-rate cast at the top of their respective games, this may not be prime Kramer, but it's still hugely enjoyable if taken on its own terms. Technical merits here are excellent, and The Secret of Santa Vittoria comes Recommended.