The Secret Invasion Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded 2.35:1 aspect ratio presentation of "The Secret Invasion" on Blu-ray is remarkably impressive, considering its over 50-year-old medium-budget origins. Delivering period cinematography with encouraging sharpness, this 1080p transfer showcases secure and inviting detail. Aged faces, decorated interiors, and the beautiful Yugoslavian architecture come through with depth and texture, leveraging the advantages of the high-definition format. Despite the occasional print wear such as nicks, specks, and harsh splices popping into view periodically, the film presents a practically perfect image with managed grain that preserves a filmic appearance.

Colors in "The Secret Invasion" are both defined and engaging, featuring bright blue skies and natural skintones while the costuming brings out additional hues. Primaries particularly pop, with reds standing out amid scenes involving fake blood. Although there are minor crush issues in some night scenes, black levels are solid for the majority of the film, with excellent delineation. Overall, this Blu-ray transfer is an outstanding catalog presentation that highlights the enduring visual appeal of Roger Corman's work.

The audio presentation of "The Secret Invasion" on Blu-ray features a DTS-HD MA 2.0 track that delivers an authentic WWII experience, though it falls short of cinematic excellence. The track primarily focuses on dialogue, which remains clear and well-separated throughout most of the film. However, due to the limits of the 2.0 mix, it lacks the sonic depth needed to fully energize the action sequences. The film's combat scenes, including gunfire and explosions, fail to deliver the expected auditory impact, with muddiness obscuring finer details.

While dialogue-driven scenes benefit from consistent levels and clear separation between sound effects and music, there are noticeable issues during the film's climax. The looping of dialogue significantly detracts from immersion, as words often feel disconnected from the scene. Although some reviews highlighted the absence of age-related hiss or pop, others identified a constant hiss that dampens the overall clarity. Despite these flaws, the mix remains serviceable for casual viewing but does not meet the higher standards one might expect for a war film.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "The Secret Invasion" offer viewers a brief but insightful glimpse into the film’s production and promotion. An interview with director Roger Corman reveals intriguing details about the production's origins and Corman's collaboration with his brother, Gene Corman, highlighting the practical aspects of location shooting. The theatrical trailer adds historical context while showcasing the film’s preserved quality. The extras, though concise, enrich the viewing experience by providing a succinct yet substantial behind-the-scenes look.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview with Roger Corman: Director Corman discusses the production history and shooting locations.
• Theatrical Trailer: A fun trailer that highlights the film's condition and promotional strategy.

Roger Corman's 1964 film, The Secret Invasion, showcases a director stepping out of his usual literary adaptations into the gritty realm of WWII action. This movie, starring Stewart Granger, Mickey Rooney, and Edd Byrnes, combines historical context with emotional depth, striving to balance raw warfare realities with engaging character-driven narratives. While some sequences may come off as filler, Corman earns acclaim for stretching the genre boundaries, interweaving moments of tension and psychological impact amidst the adventure.

Frequently compared to 1967’s The Dirty Dozen, Corman’s film distinguishes itself with a focus on survival and introspection. Standout performances, particularly from Henry Silva, add layers of emotional complexity to the story. Shot in Yugoslavia, the setting exudes authenticity, enhancing the narrative's realism. Despite its budget constraints, Arthur E. Arling's cinematography elevates the visual experience, supporting Corman’s efficient storytelling style. The film capitalizes on its strong cast dynamics, with notable performances delivering both humor and suspense, making The Secret Invasion an absorbing watch from start to finish.

The Blu-ray release of "The Secret Invasion" projects a substantial upgrade in technical quality, making this Roger Corman film a must-see for aficionados of classic action adventure thrillers. The video transfer is particularly notable, with vibrant colors and crisp details that bring the 1964 production to life in a way that standard-definition versions simply cannot. The audio performance holds strong throughout, providing a clear and immersive experience that complements the film's dynamic score and action sequences.

The film itself, while occasionally lacking in pacing, remains engaging due to solid performances from its eclectic cast. Corman's direction, balanced with an understanding of both narrative structure and visual storytelling, ensures that "The Secret Invasion" stands out among mid-century war films. Unique elements, such as the crew’s meticulous planning methods and the emphasis on personality-driven conflict rather than sheer physicality, provide depth and keep the audience invested.

In conclusion, "The Secret Invasion" is pokey, never achieving a steady pace even with enticing turns of plot and an interest in exploring the team's use of finger-snap timing to work out their master plan of escape. Still, dry patches aside, solid performances keep "The Secret Invasion" involving, making it the rare war effort where personality, not brawn, demands the most attention. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Corman's work, this Blu-ray release offers both technical excellence and enjoyable escapism.