Taza, Son of Cochise Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Taza, Son of Cochise" from Kino Lorber features an impressive 1080p MPEG-4 MVC encoded high-definition presentation, maintaining the original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.00:1 widescreen. Utilizing a brand new 2K master, the restoration by 3-D Film Archive is commendable. The transfer showcases naturalistic image quality with intact grain and minimal print wear or tear. While some inherent softness exists, the film’s colors are subdued but fitting for the original cinematographic style. The 3D restoration is particularly noteworthy, effectively eliminating ghosting and crosstalk, albeit without excessive pop-out effects. Fans will appreciate the meticulous efforts made to revive the vintage 3D experience, although it understandably doesn’t match the robustness of modern 3D productions.

From the opening credits, the Blu-ray delivers deep three-dimensional staging, with wide-open scenery that enhances depth into the Z-axis. The combat scenes featuring spears and knives exhibit remarkable 3D action sequences—such as the intense fight between Taza and Naiche, along with a later raid involving arrows and spears. These moments are contrasted by simple indoor scenes which also benefit from effective depth. The detailed presentation allows viewers to appreciate facial features, makeup, and costume patterns while retaining a natural, film-like appearance.

The restoration is largely successful, with only minor speckling and some rough-around-the-edges process shots. The breathtaking scenery of Arches National Park and well-staged battle sequences further exemplify the attention to detail. Despite any minor imperfections, this Blu-ray release ranks among the finest restorations by 3-D Film Archive alongside notable titles like "Gog," "Sangaree," "It Came from Outer Space," and "Revenge of the Creature." Both 2D and 3D formats are available, ensuring that viewers without 3D equipment can still enjoy a high-quality standard presentation.

The Blu-ray release of "Taza, Son of Cochise" boasts an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track that enhances the viewing experience. Despite the age of the source materials, the lossless soundtrack delivers remarkable robustness, particularly during action scenes and the climactic battle. The mix provides a solid sense of depth and imaging, accentuated during instances like horses galloping across the screen. Dialogue is consistently clean and clear, free from muffling or significant clarity issues, making it easy to follow the narrative without distractions. Optional English subtitles are also offered for accessibility.

This DTS-HD MA 2.0 audio mix ensures a vivid auditory experience, elevating both dialogue and score. The dialogue is generally crisp, although there are few moments that suggest possible redubbing, which results in a slightly boxed-in sound compared to the otherwise expansive landscape audio. Nevertheless, such instances are rare and minimal. The action sequences and Frank Skinner's dramatic score coalesce seamlessly, enriching the overall atmosphere. While there's an occasional minor hiss during quieter moments, these are infrequent and do not detract from the overall excellent condition of the track. Given these strengths, the audio presentation significantly contributes to the enjoyment of this classic film.

The Blu-ray release of "Taza, Son of Cochise" offers a focused collection of extras that enhance the viewing experience by delving into its historical and technical aspects. The standout feature is the full-length audio commentary with David Del Valle and C. Courtney Joyner, enriched by insights from 3-D expert Mike Ballew. This commentary provides a detailed, engaging analysis of the film's production and its place in 3-D cinema history. Complementing this, the slideshow commentary by Ballew highlights rare photography and press materials, offering unique visual insights into the film's background. An added bonus is the restored 3-D trailer, featuring updated titles over original footage, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the movie's promotional era.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with David Del Valle, C. Courtney Joyner, and Mike Ballew: In-depth discussion on the film's production and 3-D cinema history.
• Slideshow Commentary with Mike Ballew: Visual overview with rare photography and press materials.
• Taza, Son of Cochise Trailer (in 3-D): Restored 3-D trailer with new titles.

"Taza, Son of Cochise" is a captivating 3D feature packed with action and adventure that stands out as a vintage classic. The film, produced by Ross Hunter and based on a story written by Gerald Drayson Adams, offers an engaging narrative focusing on Native American characters in a more positive light. Set after the Apache Wars, the story centers on Taza (Rock Hudson), son of the late Cochise, who desires peace with the white settlers. In contrast, his younger brother Naiche (Rex Reason) aligns with Geronimo (Ian MacDonald) to reignite conflict. Taza's efforts to maintain peace and his romantic entanglements with Oona (Barbara Rush) provide additional layers to this narrative.

The technical aspects of "Taza, Son of Cochise" enhance its storytelling. The art direction by Bernard Herzbrun and Emrich Nicholson complements the natural landscapes, making the film's 3D presentation particularly impactful. The cinematography by Russell Metty ensures that the mountainous terrains and expansive outdoor scenes become mesmerizing in 3D, immersing viewers right from the start. The original score by Frank Skinner imbues the film with energy, elevating action sequences and enriching character depth. Despite some wooden dialogue in George Zuckerman’s screenplay, Douglas Sirk’s direction maintains a workmanlike approach that keeps the movie engaging.

The production's authenticity merits acknowledgment despite the historical liberties taken for dramatic effect. The film’s cast, although not portraying Indigenous characters perfectly by modern standards, imbues a sense of authenticity. Notably, the 3D photography stands out, especially in staging thrilling action sequences filmed in Arches National Park, lending a natural presence to the depth effects. Overall, "Taza, Son of Cochise" combines classic Western action with technical prowess to offer an entertaining watch, particularly in its original 3D format.

Taza, Son of Cochise, a vintage 3D production directed by Douglas Sirk, is an engaging and entertaining Western despite not reaching the heights of genre-defining classics. The film, featuring Rock Hudson in a dedicated performance as Taza, benefits immensely from the exquisite 3D restoration by the 3-D Film Archive and Kino Lorber Studio Classics. This restoration enhances the viewing experience with magnificent depth and clarity, making both the 3D and 2D versions visually captivating. The film's earnest effort to depict native peoples respectfully, despite its now-dated approach, adds a layer of sincerity to what could have been just another stereotypical Cowboys and Indians narrative.

The restoration does not stop at the visuals; the audio mix is equally commendable, handling its workload well and adding to the immersion of the story. Moreover, the included audio commentary provides valuable context about the significance of the film within the first wave of 3D classics from Hollywood in the 1950s. The commentary enriches the viewing experience by shedding light on the production’s background and its place in cinema history. Douglas Sirk's direction, combined with beautiful locations and stellar 3D photography, makes Taza, Son of Cochise a unique entry in the Western genre.

In conclusion, Taza, Son of Cochise is an impressive representation of early 3D filmmaking, deserving of its place in any classic film collection. While it may not be a masterpiece, it offers enough entertainment value and technical prowess to be highly recommended, especially for enthusiasts of Westerns and 3D cinema. The top-notch restoration ensures that this film can be enjoyed as it was meant to be seen, providing an exciting journey through both visual and auditory landscapes. Highly recommended.