Separate Tables Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Separate Tables" by Kino Lorber Studio Classics boasts an AVC encoded 1080p transfer, maintaining the original 1.66:1 aspect ratio. Charles Lang’s acclaimed black-and-white cinematography is excellently represented with commendable clarity and sharpness. Both the blacks and gray scale are consistently stable, faithfully preserving the intricate textures like Lancaster’s houndstooth coat. The natural grain predominantly enhances the vintage feel, though occasionally it skews heavier in darker scenes, notably during Lancaster and Hiller's covert rendezvous at the hotel. Contrast remains reliable, albeit with minor fluctuations that induce a slight murkiness in a few select moments.

The transfer exhibits minimal incidents of nicks and marks, and for a film of this age, appears surprisingly clean and crisp. The grain is present yet well-managed, ensuring it does not detract from the viewing experience. Despite the occasional soft scene, the picture quality remains uniformly solid. The robust contrast and superb gray scale variance contribute essential depth and effectively honor Lang's cinematic artistry. Background elements are distinct, and shadow delineation during nighttime scenes is particularly noteworthy. Black levels are rich and full-bodied, while whites are bright and consistent, showcasing the film's visual strengths. Close-ups are notably detailed, capturing the emotional tension on the actors' faces without evident digital anomalies. Overall, this video presentation is a strong showing from Kino Lorber, despite not being a full restoration.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono mix for "Separate Tables" positions itself as a competent and well-crafted audio presentation for a dialogue-centric film. The clarity of the conversations is impeccable, ensuring that every word is distinctly and easily heard. This precision in the dialogue is essential for such a story-driven film. David Raksin's Oscar-nominated score, although understated, is effectively delivered in this lossless format, which adds a refined texture to the overall audio experience.

Subtle background details, such as the distant surf, enrich the soundscape and add depth to the setting. The track's fidelity is commendable throughout, maintaining excellent tonal balance and dynamic range, which seamlessly handles any abrupt volume changes without distortion. There are no age-related artifacts or anomalies like hiss, pops, or crackles to distract from the listening experience. While the mix may lack the immersive qualities of modern multi-channel tracks, it precisely fulfills its role, providing a robust and faithful auditory representation of the film's original audio design.

In conclusion, the mono track on "Separate Tables" delivers a solid performance. It captures the essence of the film's vocal intensity and subtly integrates atmospheric elements and Raksin's music score into a harmonious audio output that respects both the artistic and technical aspects of this classic film.

The Blu-ray extras for "Separate Tables" offer a focused and engaging insight into the film's production. The centerpiece is the Audio Commentary by Director Delbert Mann, who provides a candid and sometimes critical perspective on the film's post-production processes, including his displeasure with the title song and editorial decisions made without his consent. Mann's commentary also delves into the production challenges, his initial reluctance to direct the film, and the transformations from stage to screen adaptation. He offers nuanced observations on working with the stellar cast, particularly Rita Hayworth's anxieties and the mixed critical reception in Europe. Though sparse, these extras provide valuable context for fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Delbert Mann: In-depth discussion on production challenges and post-production changes.
• Theatrical Trailer: A vintage preview featuring Burt Lancaster promoting the film.

Separate Tables serves as an exemplary adaptation of Terrence Rattigan's original dual-stage play into a cohesive cinematic experience. Under the careful guidance of original author Rattigan and screenwriter John Gay, the film merges the two separate one-act plays into a single, tightly-woven narrative set in a seaside hotel. The plot alteration profoundly boosts the emotional gravity without compromising the source material’s core essence. However, this transition was not without its pitfalls—most notably, the import of American stars Burt Lancaster and Rita Hayworth into an otherwise British ensemble casts. Surprisingly, these Hollywood icons fall somewhat short compared to their English counterparts, including Academy Award winners David Niven and Wendy Hiller.

The film excels in both character development and atmosphere. Deborah Kerr's portrayal of the timid Sibyl Railton-Bell, perpetually under her domineering mother's thumb, offers a masterclass in repressed acting. Her nuanced performance, punctuated by downcast eyes and a withdrawn presence, contrasts sharply with David Niven's Major Pollock, whose superficial cheerfulness masks a darker secret. The film’s mise-en-scène benefits from the keen direction of Delbert Mann and meticulous production design, transforming the stuffy confines of Hotel Beauregard into an almost tangible secondary character. Supporting actors like Cathleen Nesbitt and Rod Taylor add depth to the already rich narrative tableau.

Director Delbert Mann's predominantly studio-bound setting doesn’t detract from the film’s raw emotional core; his prior television experience translates well to the intimate scope required here. The cast's exceptional performances elevate what could have become a polished but overly mechanical script. Separate Tables garnered seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Director, yet despite its accolades, some of its emotional spontaneity feels curtailed by its polished structure. Nevertheless, it remains a compelling study on human isolation and emotional interconnectedness, achieving a memorable resonance despite its occasional gloss.

"Separate Tables," adapted by Delbert Mann from Terrence Rattigan's original play, succeeds as a sophisticated tour through adult dramas, adeptly converging the two one-act stories into a coherent film. The British cast, especially stars such as David Niven and Wendy Hiller who deliver Oscar-winning performances, handles the material with remarkable finesse. Although Burt Lancaster and Rita Hayworth contribute respectable performances, they seem somewhat at odds with the otherwise impeccable ensemble. Mann's direction is generally smooth, although it arguably lacks the intensity needed to elevate the narrative into an unforgettable experience.

The Kino Lorber Blu-ray release excels in technical quality, presenting a solid, if slightly flawed, video transfer and strong audio. The visual presentation maintains clarity, although marred by some minor imperfections. The audio is robust, ensuring that Rattigan's sharp dialogue and the film's atmospheric score are experienced to their fullest extent. Supplemental features may appear minimal but are highlighted by an insightful and highly recommended commentary by director Delbert Mann.

"Separate Tables" offers an intelligent and engrossing examination of loneliness and human connection. Despite some tawdry elements that are skillfully managed by the ensemble cast, the film's emotional resonance is powerful throughout. A must-watch for fans of evocative drama, well-acted character studies, and classic cinema.