Faust Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Faust" employs an AVC encoded image with a 1.26:1 aspect ratio, showcasing Kino Classics' meticulous restoration efforts, despite the challenges posed by combining footage from various sources over its near-century existence. The 1080p HD transfer handles the complex visual language of silent film admirably, particularly for casual viewers and first-time audiences. While the film includes plentiful scratches, jumpy frames, and visible damage, an impressive level of clarity is retained throughout various passages. This allows for a detailed observation of depths, facial reactions, and special effects, which enhance the viewing experience tremendously considering the age and condition of the film.

The contrast is notably stable, providing well-delineated imagery that maintains a balance between the black-and-white tones. Although intimate details like facial features and costume stitching may not be crisp, broader aspects like facial movements and background elements display a strong sense of depth and clarity. Despite enduring numerous warps, scratches, and other debris, these flaws contribute to the authenticity and historical charm of the film. Overall, the video presentation of "Faust" stands as a robust effort to bring a ninety-year-old masterpiece into high-definition, making visible improvements without compromising the original cinematic experience.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Faust" offers an exemplary range of auditory experiences, split between two distinct LPCM 2.0 tracks. The first is a piano score by Javier Perez de Azpeitia, delivering a full, haunting accompaniment that complements the visual narrative exquisitely. The solitary piano produces a moody, atmospheric soundscape that is immersive and synchronizes well with the silent film's tone, enhancing the emotional depth and somber storytelling.

Alternatively, the orchestral score by The Mant Alto Motion Picture Orchestra provides a contrasting, yet equally compelling, auditory experience. This score broadens the sonic palette with robust instrumentation, injecting a greater intensity and varied auditory texture. Both tracks are consistently strong in quality, offering listeners a choice between the intimate tension of the piano and the grandiosity of the orchestral arrangement. Whether one opts for the singular focus of Azpeitia's piano or the layered complexity of The Mant Alto Score, the LPCM 2.0 audio ensures a rich and engaging sonic backdrop to the visual masterpiece.

The Blu-ray extras for "Faust" present an in-depth look into the making of this 1926 classic, emphasizing the meticulous efforts of director F.W. Murnau. "The Language of Shadows" offers a thorough 2007 retrospective, albeit with a somewhat scattershot approach, detailing Murnau's rigorous production methods which often drew parallels to the chaotic nature of Stanley Kubrick’s work. The feature includes invaluable comparisons of different takes and insights into the film's restoration. Additionally, "Marguerite and Faust: Screen Tests" provide a captivating glimpse into an unproduced Ernst Lubitsch film, showcasing actors testing for villainous roles. The DVD includes a noteworthy 1995 English restoration of "Faust" with Timothy Brock's score, performed by the Olympia Chamber Orchestra, presenting an alternate version of Murnau's multiple cuts.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Language of Shadows: 2007 retrospective documenting the arduous production and restoration.
• Marguerite and Faust: Screen Tests: Screen tests for an aborted Ernst Lubitsch production.
• Faust (1995 Restoration): An English restoration with a score by Timothy Brock.

"Faust," directed by F.W. Murnau, showcases the grandiosity and meticulous craft of early cinema. This 1926 silent film, once the most expensive movie ever made before "Metropolis," brings to life the epic tale of Faust—the alchemist who makes a pact with Mephisto (Emil Jannings) under the scrutiny of an Archangel (Werner Fuetterer). Murnau's film is a masterclass in silent film technique, utilizing extensive visual symbolism and precise helming to evoke themes of sin and redemption. His dedication saw countless retakes of scenes, much like a proto-Kubrickian quest for perfection that ultimately pays off in a compelling, emotionally charged narrative.

The film tells a rich, layered story of moral corruption and salvation, packed into every detailed frame. As Faust (Gosta Ekman) succumbs to the temptations and manipulations of Mephisto, his love for Gretchen (Camilla Horn) faces testing trials. Murnau’s visual storytelling effectively channels the dark beauty and tragic intensity of the narrative without relying on dialogue, pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved in silent cinema. The influence of "Faust" extends far beyond its immediate cinematic era, inspiring countless adaptations and deeply impacting the work of future filmmakers who looked up to it as a pioneering effort.

This Blu-ray release from Kino Lorber includes both a 50GB Blu-ray Disc and a DVD version of the film. These meticulously presented versions are Region A locked and housed in a sturdy blue plastic case. This version emphasizes not just the aesthetic brilliance but also the historical importance of Murnau’s vision, ensuring that contemporary audiences can appreciate "Faust" in all its elaborate detail and groundbreaking artistry.

The 1926 version of "Faust," directed by F.W. Murnau, stands as a monumental achievement in cinematic history, combining impressive technical prowess with evocative storytelling. The film masterfully oscillates between intense, ferocious sequences and tender, delicate moments that highlight the human condition's challenges and persecutions. Murnau's directorial brilliance shapes a visually spectacular journey into a world imbued with biblical undertones, providing both dramatic depth and awe-inspiring spectacle.

This Blu-Ray release from Kino Lorber successfully brings the visual and auditory splendor of "Faust" to modern audiences. Despite the film's age, the restoration efforts have preserved its intricate set pieces, pioneering visual effects, and standout performances with remarkable clarity. The video and audio quality are commendable given the source material's limitations, offering an immersive viewing experience that maintains the original's atmospheric intensity. The inclusion of several noteworthy extras further enhances the package, providing valuable context and insights into the film's production and enduring influence.

In conclusion, Kino Lorber's Blu-Ray release of "Faust" is an essential acquisition for both classic film enthusiasts and those interested in the evolution of cinema. The combination of Murnau's unparalleled directorial vision, the film's groundbreaking technical achievements, and the high-quality restoration make this a highly recommended addition to any collection.