The War of the Worlds Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1, this Blu-ray edition of "The War of the Worlds" has been digitally restored in 4K resolution using a DFT Scanity film scanner from the original three-strip Technicolor negatives. With MPEG-4 AVC encoding and a 1080p transfer, the video quality on this release is nothing short of spectacular. Colors are incredibly vibrant and well-balanced, with an impressive range of hues that bring a new life to the film. The color-correction work, particularly noticeable in scenes featuring Mars now appearing red rather than blue, enhances the overall visual experience.

The image stability is exemplary throughout the film. Though there are minor fluctuations in clarity, depth, and density levels in areas utilizing archival footage or specific visual effects, these elements are part of the film's original theatrical appearance. Image detail is remarkable—sweat on the foreheads in tense scenes and the intricate design of the Martian tentacle are rendered with such precision and clarity that they defy the movie's age of nearly 70 years. Contrasts are slightly darker than usual, but they contribute to the detailed rendering in low-light scenes.

This restoration corrects previous issues seen in earlier releases that used Eastman Color stock instead of the original Technicolor negatives. The picture is pristine, with organic film grain and meticulously cleaned-up image quality that eliminates many past instances of visible wires, scratches, and dirt. This commitment to preserving and enhancing visual integrity makes this Blu-ray release a definitive choice for home viewing, easily surpassing all previous VHS and DVD releases.

The Blu-ray release of "The War of the Worlds" includes two distinct audio tracks: English LPCM 1.0 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. Both tracks offer superb clarity, sharpness, and stability. However, the 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, meticulously created by Academy Award-winning sound designer Ben Burtt during the 2018 4K restoration, decidedly enhances the overall auditory experience. This track breathes new life into the film, especially notable in its nuanced rendering of sound movement during action-packed scenes. The 5.1 track’s spatial dynamics allow the menace and chaos accompanying the Martian invasion to envelop the soundfield compellingly.

Dialogues, sound effects, and Leith Stevens’ stirring score are robustly delivered on both tracks, yet the 5.1 DTS-HD MA track markedly enriches these elements with greater depth and impact. One can particularly observe this during scenes with heightened action; for instance, the LFE contributes a substantial boost when the death ray is first activated, delivering a palpable sense of menace and power. Overall, both tracks significantly improve upon previous home video versions by eliminating common issues like distortion and hissing, thereby ensuring a clean and immersive auditory presentation that fans of the film will undoubtedly appreciate.

The Blu-ray release of "The War of the Worlds" is complemented by an extensive suite of extras, expertly curated to appeal to enthusiasts and scholars alike. Noteworthy among these is "Movie Archeologists," a compelling exploration of the film's production history and effects led by Craig Barron and Ben Burtt. The "From the Archive: 2018 Restoration" segment dives into the meticulous process of bringing the film to 4K glory. The historical documentary "The Sky is Falling" features insightful interviews with cast and crew from a 2005 perspective. Additionally significant is the archival 1970 audio seminar with producer George Pal. Fans of Orson Welles will appreciate both "The Mercury Theater on the Air" broadcast and the KTSA interview with H.G. Wells. Completing the package are a theatrical trailer and a booklet with an essay by J. Hoberman.

Extras included in this disc:

• Movie Archeologists: Insights on visual and sound effects in the film.
• From the Archive: 2018 Restoration: Discussion on the film’s 4K restoration.
• The Sky is Falling: Documentary focusing on the film’s making.
• George Pal: Archival audio interview covering his career and special effects.
• The Mercury Theater on the Air: 1938 radio adaptation by Orson Welles.
• KTSA Interview: 1940 radio interview featuring H.G. Wells and Orson Welles.
• Commentary: Archival commentary track by Joe Dante, Bob Burns, and Bill Warren.
• Trailer: A vintage trailer for The War of the Worlds.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet with an essay by J. Hoberman.

Byron Haskin's 1953 classic, "The War of the Worlds," has been revived on Blu-ray by Criterion with a stunning 4K restoration, offering an invigorated viewing experience. The film, adapted from H.G. Wells' renowned novel, pivots around the horrifying Martian invasion in a small Californian town, driving humanity to its brink of extinction. The combination of George Pal's visionary production, Al Nozaki's iconic design for the Martian machines, and George Barnes' hallucinatory Technicolor cinematography crafts a visual spectacle that has seen an enduring legacy through the decades.

Haskin effectively balances terror and action, managing to animate 1950s’ Cold War anxieties through impeccable special effects and tight direction. The Martian war machines, with their rare manta ray shapes and menacing cobra heads, wield a skeleton beam that vaporizes everything in their path—a sight that has remained vividly terrifying over time. Barry and Ann Robinson’s on-screen chemistry lends some emotional weight amidst the chaos, although their relationship sometimes feels displaced within the sci-fi context. Notably, supporting actors such as Les Tremayne and Robert Cornthwaite deliver committed performances, enriching the human aspect of the narrative.

The film also serves as an unsettling reflection on societal fears during its release era, resonating even with contemporary audiences in different circumstances like modern-day pandemics. The Criterion Blu-ray provides this timeless piece with not just aesthetic enhancements but also enriched depth and clarity that reveal intricate details previously marred by prior lackluster video releases.

Byron Haskin's The War of the Worlds has been revitalized through a stunning 4K restoration, bestowed by The Criterion Collection with remarkable results. This genre-defining classic, which translated H.G. Wells' novel into a quintessential sci-fi spectacle, is now presented in a visual quality that is nothing short of breathtaking. The film, historically marred by subpar home video transfers, is now more luxuriant and vibrant than ever before, prompting contemplation on the boundaries of restoration fidelity. Criterion supplements this high-definition transfer with enriching special features that delve deep into the film's creation and restoration process, featuring exclusive programs and archival material.

Considered one of the most influential science fiction films, The War of the Worlds resonated deeply with audiences at its original release and continues to be relevant amid contemporary global issues. Its depiction of unanticipated catastrophe remains poignant as ever. Criterion's edition does justice to the film’s legacy, offering a visual experience that retains the original Technicolor spectacle while enhancing it to meet modern standards. Although not every bonus feature from previous releases has been included, the comprehensive selection presents enough content to satisfy both new viewers and long-time aficionados.

In conclusion, The War of the Worlds is a timeless film that has been given an exemplary rerelease by Criterion. The technical restoration brings out an unprecedented visual richness, complemented by insightful special features. This version is a substantial upgrade from previous releases and a must-have for science fiction enthusiasts and cinephiles alike. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.