Man with the Gun Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image (1.85:1 aspect ratio) presentation of "Man with the Gun" provides viewers with an exceptionally detailed and crisp visual experience. This 1080p transfer leverages black and white cinematography to create a grand sense of three-dimensional space, with grey scales and black levels maintaining near-perfect standards. Black levels remain inky and consistent without any troublesome dips into crush territories, ensuring true blacks and deep distances in the image. The grain structure is expertly managed throughout, giving the film a textured, fibrous feel that enhances the overall authenticity of the viewing experience.

Facial features are meticulously detailed, capturing every nuance, while wide establishing shots and medium-range shots are equally impressive in their clarity. For a movie that is over 60 years old, this transfer is near perfect, although minor source imperfections such as flicker, scratches, and speckling are present. These minor print damage flaws are generally subtle but can become noticeable during night scenes or dimly lit passages. However, these issues do little to detract from what is otherwise an exceptional visual presentation that pays homage to the film's original cinematographic brilliance.

The English DTS-HD MA 2.0 sound mix on "Man with the Gun" admirably captures the essence of the picture, effectively balancing dialogue, score, and sound effects. Dialogue exchanges are notably clear and unambiguous, ensuring that every line is audible without risk of distortion. The mix reveals a mild amount of hiss, but this slight imperfection does not take away from the overall experience. Scoring by Alex North shines, providing a measured backdrop that enhances rather than detracts from the on-screen action. Instrumentation is precise and well-placed, creating a cohesive auditory backdrop.

Sound effects, particularly gunshots, are rendered with sharp clarity, adding to the immersive experience. The track does not display any unwanted hiss, pops, cracks, or dropouts, contributing to a polished listening experience. While the imaging performs adequately, it occasionally falls short of delivering a fully three-dimensional soundstage, resulting in moments that may seem somewhat flat. Nevertheless, the balance between dialogue, ambient sounds, and score provides ample space for each element to resonate effectively within the stereo field. Overall, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 track delivers an engaging and technically proficient soundtrack that complements the film well.

The Blu-ray release of "Man with the Gun" features a well-curated selection of extras that enhance the viewer's appreciation of this classic film. The inclusion of multiple theatrical trailers in high definition provides nostalgic value and historical context, allowing viewers to experience how films were marketed in the past. The trailers are well-preserved, offering a visually appealing and informative glimpse into the movie’s promotion. While they effectively set up the film's themes and action, it’s worth noting that some trailers contain spoilers. This collection demonstrates a commendable effort to enhance the overall viewing experience through valuable supplementary content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: An original black and white western trailer effectively setting up the film.
• The Wonderful Country Trailer: A fun trailer capturing major events of the movie.
• Young Billy Young Trailer: Engaging trailer that highlights the action and excitement of the film.

1955's Man with the Gun, directed by Richard Wilson and starring Robert Mitchum, begins with a chilling introduction as the villain shoots a barking dog, setting a tense and ominous tone for the film. Mitchum portrays Clint Tollinger, a gunfighter hired to bring order to a terrorized town. As he begins his work, the film explores the traditional Western narrative, interspersed with moments of genuine emotion, particularly through a subplot involving Tollinger and his ex-lover, Nelly Bain (Jan Sterling). The tangential relationship adds unexpected depth to an otherwise straightforward tale of lawlessness and justice.

Tollinger's mission intensifies as he enforces stringent rules, such as disarming the populace and implementing a curfew, drawing the ire of both outlaws and town officials alike. The tension crescendos when Tollinger confronts the film's primary antagonist, Dade Holman (Joe Barry), whose gang has been wreaking havoc. Though Holman is largely absent until the climax, his presence looms menacingly. This narrative choice ensures a palpable sense of threat throughout the film.

The performances are uniformly strong. Mitchum excels as the experienced and unflinching lawman, while Sterling effectively conveys the complexities of past heartbreak. Although Barry's role as Holman is relatively underdeveloped, his function as a feared leader remains impactful. Enhancing the film is Alex North's score, which intensifies key scenes. The succinct 83-minute runtime ensures efficient storytelling devoid of unnecessary exposition. Man with the Gun is a quintessential classic Western, marked by its tight narrative, strong characterizations, and gripping visual style.

"Man with the Gun" stands as an exemplary classic Western, boasting a compelling narrative and a gritty atmosphere. Robert Mitchum's portrayal of a lawman for hire is captivating, delivering a nuanced performance that captures both the toughness and underlying vulnerability of his character, Tollinger. Through tight direction and storytelling, the film deftly explores themes of law, order, and community dynamics. Alex North’s exceptional score further enhances the film’s atmosphere, beautifully complementing its expansive visuals and emotional depth. The script ensures that while predictable at points, the film remains engaging, digging deep into character development which is crucial for its lasting impact.

The Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber impresses with a notable A/V presentation, ensuring that both the visual and auditory aspects of the film remain pristine, transporting viewers back to the West with remarkable fidelity. However, the extras are limited, consisting only of a small set of trailers which may disappoint those seeking additional content or insights into the production. Despite this, the film's strong narrative and Mitchum's standout performance make it a worthy addition to any Western aficionado's collection.

In conclusion, "Man with the Gun" takes some compelling turns and preserves a welcome western atmosphere of remote town intimidation and interaction. Alex North's scoring is exceptional, enhancing the film's reach. Mitchum’s performance maintains a leading man presence as Tollinger embarks on a mission to restore order, pushing boundaries to generate results. While the movie might be predictable in many respects, it remains alert and tender, particularly when delving deeply into character dynamics. As such, "Man With The Gun" manages to entertain and remains recommended to Western movie fans who relish both action and character-driven plots.