The Blue Max Blu-ray Review

"The Blue Max" is presented on Blu-ray with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, and the result is largely impressive. The film benefits significantly from the high-definition treatment, showcasing gorgeously vivid and accurate colors, especially noticeable in Peppard's striking blue eyes and the lush reds which avoid any browning or purplish tints. Black levels and contrast are consistently strong, contributing to an overall luminous clarity that beautifully highlights the visual elements of this Fox CinemaScope film. Although heavier grain and softness appear in some process shots, these are more prominent due to the high clarity of this transfer.

Despite these strengths, the presentation of "The Blue Max" does exhibit some inconsistencies. While the source print looks pristine with no evident signs of age or damage, a very light layer of grain usually retained in most scenes appears sporadically heavier in special effects sequences. Some scenes exhibit a slightly smooth, glossy texture that may be attributed to digital filtering, though it's applied sensibly enough to keep detail strong. The high-definition presentation also makes the optical effects work much more noticeable, with studio shots and matte lines becoming quite obvious. Additionally, the color palette leans towards a faded look with a slight teal hue, and fleshtones occasionally veer towards orange. Indoor scenes can appear somewhat dim, but overall, the HD master provides a solid visual experience that will impress long-time fans of the film.

"The Blue Max" is furnished with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that thoughtfully reimagines the original four-track magnetic soundtrack. While it may not rival the intensity of contemporary audio productions, it delivers impressive low-frequency effects (LFE) that authentically replicate the explosive sounds of early 20th-century warfare. The sonic landscape captures the buzz and rattle of early aircraft, especially in key flight sequences, immersing listeners in the historical atmosphere. Dialogue clarity is commendable, ensuring conversations are consistently crisp and distinct.

Jerry Goldsmith's majestic score is the highlight of this presentation, benefiting immensely from the lossless audio format. The fidelity is impeccable, with a dynamic range that allows the orchestral elements to shine, from the initial descending strings to the resonant brass sections. Although other audio elements may show slight age-related limitations—such as infrequent hissing and comparatively muted battle sounds—the score remains robust and vividly detailed.

While surround activity is generally sparse, with side speakers staying mostly silent, directional audio in action sequences offers a satisfactory experience. The later dogfights come alive, providing decent bass from spinning propellers, firing machine guns, and falling bombs, though modern releases offer more impactful bass levels. Despite these minor shortcomings, "The Blue Max" achieves a compelling auditory experience that balances its historical roots with an engaging score presentation.

The Blu-ray release of "The Blue Max" offers a robust collection of extras that will appeal to enthusiasts of film scores and movie history alike. The Isolated Score Track in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 allows viewers to experience Jerry Goldsmith's complete score in its full glory. The Audio Commentary by Jon Burlingame, Julie Kirgo, and Nick Redman is particularly engaging, providing insights into Goldsmith's music, the film’s production, and thematic elements. This scholarly discussion highlights the intricate connections between the score and its classical influences, providing deep dives into alternate versions of musical cues. Finally, the Theatrical Trailer, presented in standard definition, serves as a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s original marketing.

Extras included in this disc:

• Isolated Score Track: Experience Jerry Goldsmith’s complete score in DTS-HD MA 2.0.
• Audio Commentary with Jon Burlingame, Julie Kirgo, and Nick Redman: In-depth analysis of the score and production details.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer in standard definition.

"The Blue Max," directed by John Guillermin, revisits the harrowing days of World War I, juxtaposing the grim reality of trench warfare with the captivating emergence of aerial combat. The film centers on Bruno Stachel (George Peppard), an ambitious German soldier whose desire for prestige propels him into the elite ranks of fighter pilots. The stark contrast between the entrenched ground battles and the exhilarating biplane dogfights forms a visually and emotionally rich narrative landscape. While the screenplay may be somewhat verbose, the exceptionally dynamic aerial cinematography, courtesy of Anthony Squire, provides an awe-inspiring visual experience. Guillermin's rigorous directorial style maintains a steady momentum through Stachel’s morally complex journey, despite some pacing issues.

George Peppard's portrayal of Stachel is marked by an unsettling charisma that aligns with his character’s ruthless ambition and egotism. Stachel’s relentless pursuit of the Blue Max, a prestigious accolade awarded for downing twenty enemy planes, underscores his contentious relationships within his squadron, notably with aristocratic peer Willi von Klugermann (Jeremy Kemp). The film brilliantly unveils the propaganda machinery of wartime Germany, as Stachel's gruff background is manipulatively marketed to inspire the masses. This cynical narrative is both enhanced and detracted by Peppard's performance; while his American accent feels inconsistent amidst the European ensemble, his stoic demeanor reinforces Stachel’s overarching detachment.

The narrative crescendos during meticulously staged aerial battles and visually impactful sequences that leverage the grandeur of CinemaScope. Complementing these scenes is a subplot involving Countess Kaeti von Klugermann (Ursula Andress), resulting in moments of emotional turbulence that interweave with Stachel’s sky-bound endeavors. Despite some outdated romantic elements, the final act delivers a powerfully staged climax enriched with thought-provoking themes on wartime exploitation and personal vendetta. Ultimately, "The Blue Max" melds traditional war epic storytelling with striking anti-war commentary, making it a compelling watch despite its uneven script and occasionally one-dimensional protagonist.

"The Blue Max" on Blu-ray offers a mixed yet visually stunning experience that captures the essence of mid-20th century war films. The film itself is anchored by its compelling story and striking cinematography, despite George Peppard's performance coming across as somewhat rigid and unconvincing. The narrative might have benefitted from some trimming to maintain pace, but the engaging plot and exceptional aerial stunts ensure that viewers are captivated. The Blu-ray transfer showcases one of the finest Fox CinemaScope presentations, reflecting the film’s rich detail and immersive visual quality.

The technical aspects of this release are commendable. The video quality is notably strong, albeit with minor inconsistencies that hardly detract from the overall experience. The audio track, while not as dynamic as contemporary action films, provides a balanced complement to the visuals, enhancing the film's immersive quality. The isolated score track underscores Jerry Goldsmith's memorable music, adding depth to the viewing experience. Additionally, the commentary track is packed with insightful production trivia, providing added value to film enthusiasts.

In conclusion, "The Blue Max" may have its imperfections in terms of pacing and performances, yet it stands out for its engaging story, superior cinematography, and impressive aerial sequences. The Blu-ray transfer is top-notch, delivering a visually rich and technically sound experience. Fans and collectors will find this release to be a worthy addition to their collection, offering both high-quality presentation and valuable bonus content. Highly recommended.