Saigon Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1, Saigon's Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber features a 1080p transfer encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and sourced from a new 2K scan of the 35mm original fine grain print. The resulting video quality showcases fresh visuals that often appear very attractive, though there are occasional inconsistencies and fluctuations affecting density levels, delineation clarity, and depth. Notably, the transfer avoids problematic digital corrections, maintaining a good grayscale and stable image. However, minor imperfections such as white nicks, small blemishes, and black spots can be observed, particularly in darker scenes.

Director of photography John F. Seitz’s work shines through in this new master, with well-delineated details in scenes featuring debris at the crash site, characters' uniforms, and bustling Saigon streets. Despite minor visual imperfections, such as occasional white specks and process photography techniques typical of the era used for ship and car scenes, the release provides an authentic representation of the film’s historical visual style. The film grain is preserved faithfully, adding to the nostalgic appeal without significant scratches, tears, or dirt disrupting the viewing experience.

The audio presentation of the "Saigon" Blu-ray is exclusively in English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with optional English SDH subtitles. Dialogue is consistently clear and distinct, facilitating ease of comprehension. However, there are moments where the audio exhibits noticeable thinness, suggesting compression. These fluctuations, likely due to the film's age, do not significantly detract from the overall experience but do highlight the film's vintage nature.

Sound effects, such as car engines, gunshots, a plane crash-landing in the jungle, and ambient street noise, are delivered effectively within the 2.0 mono DTS-HD Master Audio track. Robert Emmett Dolan’s score is faithfully reproduced, though it possesses a subdued quality that may lack dramatic impact in some scenes. Despite minor cases of distortion like clicking, crackling, popping, and hissing, these instances are minimal and infrequent.

Overall, this release represents the optimal audio presentation for "Saigon" on home video formats. The track remains faithful to the original mono mix, ensuring an authentic auditory experience that aligns with the film’s era.

The Blu-ray release of "Saigon" provides a comprehensive selection of extras that enhance the viewing experience, delivering valuable insights and context for fans and film historians alike. The exclusive new audio commentary by film historians Lee Gambin and Elissa Rose is a standout feature. Their spirited discussion covers the film’s aesthetic, stylistic elements, the impact of war trauma, and the film's significance in the careers of Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake. Gambin and Rose also delve into production details, the cultural and political backdrop of the film’s setting, and its reception during its time. Additionally, the vintage trailer included provides a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s original promotion, capturing the essence of 1940s cinematic intrigue and escapism.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film historians Lee Gambin and Elissa Rose provide an in-depth discussion of the film.
• Trailer: A vintage English trailer for “Saigon.”
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Includes trailers for related classics like “Lucky Jordan” and “Calcutta.”

Leslie Fenton's Saigon (1947) is a noteworthy entry in post-WWII Hollywood cinema, presented on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber. Starring Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake, the film's potential is instantly elevated by their presence—a duo well-recognized from previous successes such as The Blue Dahlia. Saigon promises a blend of intrigue and exotic locales set against a backdrop of crime melodrama, reminiscent of iconic films like Casablanca. Despite this promising setup, the movie doesn't fully realize its potential, primarily due to narrative and structural issues. The story, revolving around shady businessman Alex Maris (Morris Carnovsky) and his attempts to move $500,000 from Shanghai to Saigon with the help of Army friends Larry Briggs (Ladd), Mike Perry (Douglas Dick), and Pete Rocco (Wally Cassell), unfolds with some promising elements but ultimately falters due to weak script execution and an uneven focus on romantic subplots.

The film benefits from historical genre elements and a talented production team. Cinematographer John F. Seitz's work imparts a rich atmosphere, from the rain-slicked streets of Shanghai to the vibrant yet perilous expanse of Saigon. Composer Robert Emmett Dolan and costume designer Edith Head contribute significantly to the film's period feel, enhancing its noir essence with visual and auditory flair. However, despite these strengths, Saigon suffers from pacing issues and a familiar storyline that reduces its impact. The romance between Ladd and Lake feels underdeveloped and secondary to the criminal narrative, resulting in an experience that lacks coherent emotional resonance.

Supporting performances, especially Douglas Dick's portrayal of the terminally ill Mike Perry and Luther Adler's role as the determined Lieutenant Keon, do add depth to the film. Nevertheless, the overall narrative shortcomings overshadow these contributions, leading to a film that, while offering some entertainment value and stylistic flourishes, does not fully capitalize on its promising premise or the star power of its leads.

"Saigon," the fourth and final film featuring the iconic duo of Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake, does not quite reach the heights of their previous outings. The movie suffers from an uneven script and lackluster direction by Leslie Fenton, which impedes its potential. While Ladd and Lake exhibit their usual chemistry, their performances are burdened by a plot that fails to engage the viewer fully. Lake, despite looking radiant in Edith Head’s costumes, delivers an underwhelming performance. Overall, "Saigon" lacks the suspense and dynamism that characterized the duo's earlier hits such as "This Gun for Hire" and "The Glass Key."

The technical aspects of Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release are noteworthy. The film has been sourced from a new 2K master, which, despite some inconsistencies, presents the film in a visually pleasing manner. The HD transfer significantly enhances the film’s visual appeal, making it more enjoyable for modern audiences. Additionally, the Blu-ray offers a solid commentary track, providing valuable insights and enhancing the viewing experience. This effort to rescue "Saigon" from obscurity is commendable and ensures this piece of cinematic history is accessible to fans and cinephiles alike.

In conclusion, while "Saigon" falls short of being a classic due to its tepid script and direction, Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release makes a strong case for revisiting it. The restored visuals and insightful commentary contribute to a richer viewing experience. For fans of Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake, this Blu-ray offers a chance to complete their collection and appreciate the duo's on-screen magic one last time. Highly recommended for enthusiasts of classic cinema.