The Hound of the Baskervilles Blu-ray Review

Arrow's high-definition presentation of Terence Fisher's "The Hound of the Baskervilles" arrives on Blu-ray with an aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and employing an MPEG-4 AVC encode. The grain is reasonably heavy, maintaining a film-like consistency without any detrimental digital sheen, though there are some instances of splotches and debris suggesting minor restoration efforts. The transfer exhibits a film-like texture overall, with robust and vibrant images that maintain an organic feel. Despite these positive attributes, the image quality is occasionally uneven, with select sequences displaying acceptable depth while others appear disappointingly flat and dull.

Colours are a significant highlight, notably the rich reds of the hunting tunics and the saturated greens, blues, and purples. However, there are observed inconsistencies in colour saturation, with some tonalities lost entirely in certain scenes. The contrast performance is generally smooth, yet indoor footage struggles with shadow definition and clarity, leading to an inconsistent viewing experience. Outdoor sequences suffer from occasional halo effects that introduce harshness and disrupt the natural grain structure, especially evident in scenes shot under ominous skies. Framing anomalies also affect the image during specific sequences where the top end of the frame appears lowered.

Noteworthy is how close-ups reveal excellent detail, bringing out sharp clarity in faces, props, and costumes. The intricate designs of patterns and stitching on costumes are finely resolved, enhancing the film's period atmosphere. However, one particular scene reveals pronounced edge enhancement around characters, creating a fuzzy outline that detracts from the otherwise natural image quality. Despite these flaws, Arrow's Blu-ray release delivers a largely satisfactory high-definition version that showcases Hammer’s gothic aesthetic effectively for most viewers, though it may not fully satisfy purists.

Arrow’s Blu-ray presentation of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" features an uncompressed mono 1.0 audio track that masterfully navigates the limitations of its vintage sound design. Delivered in English LPCM 1.0, the audio track is vivid and full of energy, driven predominantly by James Bernard’s exhilarating orchestral score. Bernard's brass and string crescendos inject a demonic fervor into the narrative, while his chase motifs (though recycled from "Dracula") provide a compelling impetus. The clarity of the dialogue is commendable, allowing the unique inflections and verbal nuances of each character to shine through—a trademark of vintage British and Hammer films.

However, the track does show its age with some minor background hiss and occasional fluctuating depth. High-frequency stability could be better, and while no digital distortions or dropouts are present, there are brief moments where tiny pops can be detected. Effects like the howling of the Hound, wind gusts, glass shattering, and gunshots are delivered robustly, though the faint weeping heard by Watson might be mixed a tad low for some listeners' preferences. Regardless, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall experience.

This audio track effectively captures the atmospheric tension and fantastical elements synonymous with Hammer productions, bringing a skin-prickling sense of immersion. Although turning up the volume might be necessary to achieve optimal enjoyment, rest assured that the audio richness offered here defies any preconceived notions of tinny or diminutive sound quality. Optional English SDH subtitles are also available, ensuring accessibility without compromising the integrity of this engaging auditory experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" is augmented by a robust selection of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience. The inclusion of a reversible sleeve with both original and newly commissioned artwork by Paul Shipper adds a collector's appeal, complemented by a 26-page booklet featuring an article by former Hammer archivist Robert J. E. Simpson. The isolated music and effects soundtrack presents James Bernard’s score with vivid clarity, surpassing previous unofficial releases. A new audio commentary by Hammer experts Marcus Hearn and Jonathan Rigby offers a captivating dive into the film’s production and nuances, making it a must-listen. Featurettes such as "Release the Hound!" and "André Morell: Best of British" provide deep insights through interviews with key figures and film historians, while archival material like Christopher Lee’s readings and his reflections in "Actor's Notebook" add a nostalgic touch.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: The original black-and-white theatrical trailer.
• Image Gallery: A gallery of promotional materials.
• The Hound of the Baskervilles Excerpts: Two extracts from the novel read by Christopher Lee.
• Actor's Notebook: Christopher Lee: Archival interview with Christopher Lee discussing the film.
• The Many Faces of Sherlock Holmes: A 1986 documentary presented by Christopher Lee.
• Andre Morell: Best of British: Featurette on actor Andre Morell's career.
• Release the Hound!: A documentary on the film’s production history.
• Booklet: Illustrated booklet with new writing by Robert J. E. Simpson.
• Cover: Reversible sleeve with original and new artwork.
• Isolated Score: Isolated music and effects soundtrack.
• Commentary: Audio commentary by Marcus Hearn and Jonathan Rigby.

Hammer’s 1959 version of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" is an opulent and exhilarating adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic Sherlock Holmes tale. The film's narrative, centered around Sir Henry Baskerville's harrowing experiences upon his return to Dartmoor, masterfully evokes a sense of gothic suspense with elements such as errant tarantulas, escaped convicts, eerie lights, and unsettling howls across the moor. Directed by Terence Fisher, this piece vividly brings Peter Cushing’s Sherlock Holmes and Andre Morell’s Dr. Watson to Christopher Lee’s haunted Sir Henry Baskerville. Intrigue intensifies as Holmes and Watson navigate the sinister moors, making Hammer's interpretation both a visually and emotionally compelling rendition steeped in atmospheric tension.

A significant shift in the fabric of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" materializes in its being the first color adaptation, emphasizing visual splendor deeply rooted in gothic horror aesthetics. The film showcases elaborate sets, period appropriate costumes, and atmospheric lighting choices that contribute to its distinctive look. The interactions among main characters generally hold weight, albeit with occasional script-induced imbalances; notably, Holmes' prolonged absence gives Dr. Watson undue prominence. Despite these minor narrative hitches, the rendition maintains an engaging pace. A crucial critique involves the portrayal of the hound itself, whose late reveal and comparatively benign appearance detracts from its potential menace.

The production excels through James Bernard’s orchestral score, heightening the movie's already intense ambiance. Familiar collaborations between Fisher and cinematographer Jack Asher, who previously worked together on other Hammer classics, contribute to the sophisticated visual storytelling. Though there are areas that could have enhanced the gothic immersion further, particularly the hound’s depiction, Hammer's "The Hound of the Baskervilles" remains a robust and thrilling tribute to Doyle’s enduring mystery, underscored by rich period details and strong performances.

Arrow Video's Blu-ray release of Terence Fisher's "The Hound of the Baskervilles" is a commendable presentation enriched with a variety of supplemental materials that provide substantial value for fans and newcomers alike. The edition includes an insightful new audio commentary featuring Hammer experts Marcus Hearn and Jonathan Rigby, among other engaging extras that offer a deep dive into the production and historical context of this classic film. Arrow Video deserves recognition for curating such a compelling array of features, showcasing their commitment to celebrating Hammer’s gothic horror legacy.

The film itself is presented in high-definition, although the transfer has its limitations due to reliance on an older master provided by MGM. While the Blu-ray does not achieve the pristine clarity that high-definition enthusiasts might expect, the grand and atmospheric visual style of this 1959 adaptation remains evident and enjoyable. The inherent visual qualities of Fisher’s work—his strategic blend of gothic mystery, horror elements, and meticulous sleuthing—are well-preserved. Fans will appreciate how the vibrant Technicolor aesthetics elevate the ominous settings of the moors and the ancestral Baskerville estate.

In conclusion, after the classic Basil Rathbone/Nigel Bruce version for Universal in 1939, Hammer reawakened "The Hound of the Baskervilles" with a bravura outing that expertly marries gothic mystery with Holmsien detective work and moments of potent horror. Despite the constraints imposed by its "A" certificate rating, Fisher pushes boundaries effectively within these limits, setting a high bar for the genre. The vivid prologue and atmospheric storytelling demonstrate Hammer's ability to deliver intense and engaging cinematic experiences. Arrow Video’s release, despite some technical shortfalls, offers a rich homage to this esteemed adaptation and is an essential addition for collectors and Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts. For mainstream audiences, considering a rental might be prudent before purchase.