99 River Street Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "99 River Street" by Kino Lorber presents the film in its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio with a 1080p transfer encoded via MPEG-4 AVC. It's evident that the transfer is from a secondary element, leading to occasional softness and a flatter image at times. Despite this, detail levels are generally pleasing, with a convincing grading that maintains the film’s classic noir aesthetic. Image stability is commendable, though grain exposure is limited, causing depth and texture nuances often to appear average. While not an outstanding remaster, it remains a satisfactory representation of this film noir classic.

Sharpness levels are acceptable, particularly in close-ups where facial details such as Payne's rugged features and Keyes' allure are evident. The grayscale rendition is effective, showing rich blacks and crisp whites, contributing to decent shadow details even in the predominantly night-set scenes. The transfer showcases a nicely varied gray scale that enhances clarity and depth despite occasional age-related nicks and marks. Although some shots appear somewhat washed out or softer compared to others, the overall effort replicates the film's natural look and effectively honors its classic elements.

Kino Lorber’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that the film retains its gritty cityscape atmosphere, with faint grain maintaining a genuine celluloid feel. However, dust, debris, and occasional edge contouring are present, slightly distracting from the overall experience. The transfer decently applies contrast, though the additional resolution sometimes reveals the movie tricks intended to add dimension to the backlot setups. Despite these minor flaws, this Blu-ray transfer provides a visually engaging experience that showcases the raw intensity and stylistic depth characteristic of Phil Karlson’s direction.

The Blu-ray release of "99 River Street" exclusively features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track. While devoid of optional English SDH subtitles, the track itself delivers clear and well-modulated sound, providing a faithful representation of the era's single channel soundtracks. When the music score by Emil Newman and Arthur Lange comes into play, it fills the room effortlessly and enhances the film's atmosphere. The dialogue remains crisp and easily comprehensible throughout the entire feature, ensuring that viewers remain engaged without any auditory distractions.

Sonically, the audio track succeeds in delivering distinct sound effects such as fisticuffs, gunfire, and revving car engines with clarity. Although the audio boasts impressive clarity and stability, there is occasional evidence of age-related unevenness in the upper registers and an extremely light hiss that is barely noticeable. However, these are minor issues that do not detract significantly from the overall experience. Notably, there are no significant audio dropouts or distortions, and the absence of typical defects like hiss, pops, or crackles further solidifies its integrity.

While this DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track is not a groundbreaking mix by modern standards, it faithfully enhances viewer immersion by maintaining vibrant and dynamic audio that uplifts the film's overall excitement quotient. The meticulously balanced combination of dialogue, music, and atmospheric effects creates an authentic and engaging auditory experience, ensuring this classic film’s historical essence is well-preserved.

The Blu-ray extras for "99 River Street" provide an exemplary supplement to the film, enriching viewers’ understanding through meticulous commentary and vintage material. Film noir aficionado Eddie Muller shines with a detailed and engaging audio commentary, revealing fascinating anecdotes about the cast and crew, including Evelyn Keyes’ semi-retirement and John Payne's intriguing connection to Ian Fleming’s "Moonraker." Muller's deft blend of historical context, personal connections, and genre expertise offers both an educational and entertaining layer to the viewing experience. Additionally, a collection of trailers from Kino Lorber’s catalog adds a nostalgic touch, covering related film noir titles.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Noir expert Eddie Muller delivers a lively and informative commentary offering insights into the film's production, cast, and noir elements.
• Trailer: A vintage trailer for "99 River Street" in HD.
• Additional Trailers: Trailers for "Hidden Fear," "Shield for Murder," and "He Ran All the Way."

Phil Karlson's "99 River Street" is a prime showcase of 1950s film noir, presenting a gritty, unvarnished exploration of crime and desperation. John Payne delivers a robust performance as Ernie Driscoll, a former boxer turned New York City cab driver who finds himself entangled in a precarious web of deceit and murder. His portrayal effectively blends ruggedness with a palpable romantic sensitivity, making Ernie’s plight compelling. Peggy Castle excels in her role as the disillusioned, materialistic wife, Pauline, whose affair with a slick gangster, Victor Rawlins (Brad Dexter), sets off a chain of deadly events. The film’s unique energy and spontaneity emanate from the strong performances, which imbue the narrative with an intensity and raw authenticity that transcend its modest budget.

Screenwriter Robert Smith crafts a tight, action-laden script from George Zuckerman’s original story, creating a fast-moving tale filled with unpredictable twists. Director Phil Karlson's adept handling of tension is complemented by Oscar-nominated cinematographer Franz Planer’s gritty yet stylish visuals. The film’s aesthetic perfectly aligns with its macho attitude, capturing New York's dark streets and shadowy corners. Emil Newman and Arthur Lange’s orchestral score further intensifies the dramatic undertones, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Evelyn Keyes stands out with her multi-dimensional performance as Linda James, an aspiring actress, adding significantly to the film's dynamic. Frank Faylen provides solid support as Ernie’s loyal friend, while Dexter and Jay Adler bring depth to their villainous roles. Despite some limitations in special effects, Karlson’s innovative compositions and close-ups lend an elegance to the film. "99 River Street" is a solid genre piece that impresses with its vigorous storytelling, complex characters, and Karlson's deft direction—making it a notable entry in the realm of noir cinema.

Phil Karlson’s "99 River Street" stands out as a gritty and twist-filled noir that brings raw intensity to the screen. John Payne's performance as the beleaguered cab driver framed for his wife's murder is particularly commendable, capturing the quintessential noir angst and aggression. Evelyn Keyes also shines in her dynamic role, embodying a character with unexpected depth and vigor. The film's fast pace and gripping narrative, complemented by colorful supporting characters, create an atmosphere teeming with tough realism and underworld intrigue.

The Kino Lorber Blu-ray release of "99 River Street" does justice to the film's dark tones and stark visuals. Sourced from an older MGM remaster, the presentation may not be groundbreaking but delivers a respectable improvement over previous home video editions. The audio and video transfers are solid, ensuring the film's visceral quality is well preserved. The inclusion of Eddie Muller's insightful commentary adds significant value, shedding light on the film's historical reception and deeper nuances.

Even without the effective twists that Robert Smith's script introduces, "99 River Street" still would have been one hell of a film. Why? Because Phil Karlson was the man behind the camera, and because the top cast that was assembled for it had the right attitudes a film noir of this caliber requires to be legit. So, Eddie Muller is entirely correct to point out in his audio commentary that the old reviews where the film was trashed for its lack of authenticity were written by critics who did not know what they were looking at. 99 River Street works as well as it does because it is mean, brutal, and fast, a streetwise firecracker that is determined to leave its own trail. Macho film noirs do not get any better than this, folks. Kino Lorber's release is sourced from an older remaster that was prepared by MGM. It is not bad, but in an ideal world this film should look very impressive on Blu-ray. RECOMMENDED.