Mutiny on the Bounty Blu-ray Review

Warner Bros.' Blu-ray presentation of "Mutiny on the Bounty" is a mixed bag that benefits from a wide 2.77:1 aspect ratio and an AVC encode. While this is not a new transfer, the execution does show commendable improvements in color reproduction and overall vibrancy compared to previous DVD and HD-DVD iterations. The Technicolor Ultra Panavision 70mm elements work well to immerse viewers in this cinematic epic, offering warm, sun-kissed palettes that transition beautifully into the lush greens of Tahiti. The reds and deep blues are particularly noteworthy, providing a rich depth that enhances the visual experience dramatically. However, despite these strong points, the image frequently lacks the fine detail and texture one might expect.

On the downside, the video transfer has some noticeable weaknesses that can't be overlooked. There is a significant lack of grain and texture, giving parts of the film a flat and waxy appearance. This absence of finite details results in background elements and mid-range shots appearing smudgy, possibly due to excessive digital noise reduction (DNR). Foliage lacks intricate detailing, and costumes and set pieces fail to pop with the anticipated clarity. At times, close shots capture fine details, but this sharpness does not extend to wider scenes, leading to inconsistencies in overall image quality. Additionally, some greenish haloing around background figures and minor edge enhancements are present but seem inherent to the source material rather than the transfer process.

Despite these issues, the Blu-ray's depth of color and strong black levels create a visually captivating experience. Contrast is well-maintained, contributing to a pleasing three-dimensionality in both deck and island scenes. Shadows, especially below decks, add atmospheric depth, though occasional crushing during darker scenes could be noted. Warner Bros. has surely made strides with this release, yet it remains evident that a superior scan from the original 65mm negatives would have furnished a more robust and detailed visual presentation worthy of this lavishly shot film.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix presented in the Blu-ray edition of "Mutiny on the Bounty" is a significant enhancement over previous releases and a revelation for aficionados of Bronislaw Kaper's iconic score. While recognizing the inherent limitations of audio materials from a film that is over half a century old, the remastered track provides an impressively rich and engaging aural experience. The audio presentation is marked by a broad stereo spread across the front channels, delivering a sense of depth and immersion that faithfully replicates the original 4-channel stereo mix used during its initial Roadshow presentations. The crisp and clear dialogue remains impressively centered, ensuring the distinct voices of Howard and Brando are articulated with minimal distortion, supported by comprehensive background sound effects that enrich the overall atmosphere.

The sonic energy of this mix is particularly noticeable in Kaper’s riveting score, where the orchestral elements exhibit exceptional clarity and warmth. The use of surround channels is executed convincingly, transforming simple score elements and sound effects into a full surround mix. The low-frequency effects (LFE) layer provide substantial depth, enhancing the dramatic sequences like storm scenes and Tahitian drumming, with ample bass that adds to the overall impact without overshadowing other elements. Shipboard sounds such as scrubbing decks, clanking sails, and ambient water lapping against the hull are well detailed and placed, providing a realistic auditory backdrop.

Although modern mixes surpass this in terms of dynamic range and discrete sound placement, the effort put into this restoration is evident. The background chatter of the crew and atmospheric effects contribute significantly to the film’s authenticity. In comparison to older HD-DVD releases, this Blu-ray audio offers nuanced improvements in LFE and dynamic range, though it remains somewhat constrained by its dated source material. Nevertheless, it stands as perhaps the best auditory experience "Mutiny on the Bounty" has ever offered on home media, making it a noteworthy upgrade for any collector.

The Blu-ray of "Mutiny on the Bounty" features a respectable array of extras carried over from previous DVD and HD-DVD releases. Although there is no commentary track or comprehensive production footage, the supplements provided offer valuable insights into the construction and journeys of the ship replica. Highlights include "After the Cameras Stopped Rolling: The Journey of the Bounty," a 2006 featurette that delves into the building of the ship, and "The Story of H.M.S. Bounty," which details both the historical ship and its cinematic reconstruction. Historical curiosity is further piqued by the long-lost Prologue and Epilogue, presented in SD anamorphic widescreen, adding depth to the film's narrative. Unfortunately, these features emphasize the replica voyages more than the film's troubled production, missing an opportunity for a more extensive retrospective.

Extras included in this disc:

• After the Cameras Stopped Rolling: The Journey of the Bounty: Documentary on the construction of the replica for the film.
• The Story of H.M.S. Bounty: Detailed account of the ship's history and its cinematic reconstruction.
• The Bounty's Voyage to St. Petersburg: Documentation of the replica's journey to Florida.
• The Bounty: Star Attraction at the New York World's Fair: Coverage of the ship's display at the 1964 fair.
• H.M.S. Bounty Sails Again!: Vintage newsreel of the replica's global voyage.
• Prologue and Epilogue: Recoveries from the film's flashback narrative.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original movie trailer.

The 1962 adaptation of "Mutiny on the Bounty," directed by Lewis Milestone, presents a visually spectacular but somewhat flawed epic. The film's grandeur is underscored by its lush Ultra Panavision 70 cinematography, expertly handled by Robert L. Surtees, capturing the vastness of the open seas and the tropical allure of Tahiti. Bronislaw Kaper's towering score enhances the film's epic scale, blending heroic fanfares with sinuous love themes, and standing as one of the most memorable film scores of its era. However, despite these technical marvels, the narrative struggles under the weight of Brando's eccentric performance and directorial inconsistencies.

Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Fletcher Christian is divisive—ranging from quirky to outright foppish—while Trevor Howard’s Captain Bligh presents a chillingly cruel yet nuanced figure. The on-screen tension between Brando and Howard is palpable, likely reflecting their real-life acrimony. Brando's infamous off-screen antics, including romantic entanglements and temperamental clashes, nearly jeopardized the production but also added an authentic layer of discord that permeates the film. The narrative falters mainly in its final act, where pacing issues and a less cohesive storyline undermine what could have been a more impactful denouement.

While Howard’s portrayal brings a unique sexual ferocity to Bligh, making his sadomasochistic tendencies almost palpable, Brando’s overly effeminate interpretation of Christian detracts from the character's believability as a naval officer. This adaptation’s ambition to delve into complex character dynamics is both its strength and its weakness, as it occasionally overplays these elements to the detriment of narrative cohesion. The supplementary material, including overture and intermission segments, although adding to the film’s roadshow grandeur, does little to mitigate its excessive length and uneven pacing. Overall, while "Mutiny on the Bounty" offers moments of impressive cinematography and musical achievement, it ultimately falls short of its ambitious storytelling goals.

The Blu-ray release of "Mutiny on the Bounty" exemplifies a mixed bag of technical achievements and cinematic impact. Many reviewers have pointed out that while it may not be the definitive ultra-widescreen epic of the year, it surpasses previous versions such as the DVD and HD-DVD releases. The 70mm cinematography remains one of its strongest assets, capturing vivid visuals and retaining the integrity of the original film's special effects. The audio quality, highlighted by Kaper’s magnificent score rendered in lossless audio, adds significant value and elevates the home viewing experience, reflecting the film's original grandeur.

Despite a robust technical presentation, viewer satisfaction may fluctuate based on individual expectations. Some critics express a sense of missed potential, particularly when comparing "Mutiny on the Bounty" to other classics such as "Bridge on the River Kwai" or "Lawrence of Arabia." The film's narrative trajectory in its concluding acts leaves some feeling unfulfilled, even if the journey through its first couple of hours showcases gripping drama and well-crafted performances from Marlon Brando and Richard Harris.

In conclusion, for fans of "Mutiny on the Bounty," this Blu-ray release offers a commendable upgrade in both visual and audio departments over previous editions. For newcomers, it’s a valuable addition to any collection, given its historical significance and engaging cinematography. However, potential buyers may want to weigh their expectations regarding narrative satisfaction before making a purchase. Overall, this release comes Highly Recommended for its technical prowess and nostalgic value.