Kind Hearts and Coronets Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Kind Hearts and Coronets," presented by Optimum Home Entertainment, features a top-notch 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 transfer framed at 1.33:1. The original 35mm negatives were meticulously scanned in 2K definition using a Northlight 2 Film Scanner and restored with Film Master D.V.O tools and PFClean software. This extensive restoration process effectively eliminated dirt, scratches, warps, and torn frames while enhancing stability. As a result, the film boasts exceptional clarity, contrast, and deep blacks, capturing the cinematography's atmospheric lighting with remarkable precision. The image retains a sharp yet filmic quality with very fine grain, showcasing how well the original elements have endured over time.

The transfer is notable not only for its incredible visual fidelity but also for its faithful preservation of the film's texture and details. Fine object detail and color reproduction are markedly improved, providing a significant upgrade over previous standard-definition releases marred by subpar transfers. Fans will be pleased to find that no excessive sharpening or noise correction has been applied, ensuring an authentic viewing experience. Minor frame transition issues and occasional soft shots exist but do not detract from the overall visual impact. The high-definition transfer is free from large artifacts and ringing patterns, ensuring a clean cinematic presentation. This release stands as a testament to Optimum's commitment to quality restorations of classic Ealing Studios films.

For aficionados of black-and-white cinematography, Douglas Slocombe’s work on "Kind Hearts and Coronets" is shown in its finest light, reinforcing the excellence of this release. The meticulous attention to detail in the restoration process places this Blu-ray among the best presentations of Ealing Comedies available in high definition. This impressive transfer reaffirms the film's historical and artistic significance while ensuring a visually captivating experience for contemporary audiences.

The audio presentation of "Kind Hearts and Coronets" on Blu-ray features a meticulously restored LPCM 2.0 track that preserves the integrity of the original mono sound while eliminating undesirable artifacts such as pops, clicks, hiss, and distortion. This version impressively showcases a clarity in dialogue that stands out, especially when juxtaposed with previous versions—such as those compared in the Dennis Price Documentary, which highlight the immense improvement. Notably, Louis Mazzini’s voice-over retains a hollow quality that evokes the classic cinema experience, effectively utilizing the timbre of larger center speakers.

Despite the inherent limitations of an LPCM 2.0 track, the audio restoration here achieves a commendable balance by maintaining a crisp, stable sound without problematic distortions. The dynamics are understandably restrained, yet they handle subtle nuances skillfully. For instance, comedic elements like the distant 'boomph' upon Henry D’Ascoyne’s demise in the potting shed are careful not to sound overly sanitized, thereby preserving the humor. Optional English SDH subtitles are also available for the main feature, offering greater accessibility without compromising the overall auditory experience. This cleaned-up soundtrack significantly enhances the film's auditory clarity while skillfully avoiding an overly clinical sound profile.

The Blu-ray extras for Kind Hearts and Coronets provide a rich and engaging exploration of the film's history and its contributors, thoroughly enhancing the viewing experience. Peter Bradshaw, Terence Davies, and Matthew Guinness deliver an insightful audio commentary, filled with detailed observations about the performances and technical achievements, despite occasional silences. John Landis' introduction offers a concise appreciation of the film's enduring charm. The tribute "Dennis Price: Those British Faces" is particularly noteworthy, offering a comprehensive look at Price's troubled yet illustrious career. Other highlights include a BBC Radio 3 Essay by Simon Heffer, which contextualizes the film within post-war Britain, an alternative American ending revealing transatlantic cultural differences, and a restoration comparison illustrating the dramatic improvements made. The behind-the-scenes stills gallery and excerpts from a BECTU interview with Douglas Slocombe provide further fascinating insights. The original theatrical trailer completes the package, evoking nostalgia for classic cinema marketing.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insightful commentary by Peter Bradshaw, Terence Davies, and Matthew Guinness.
• Introduction by John Landis: A concise appreciation from the filmmaker.
• Dennis Price: Those British Faces: Comprehensive tribute to Dennis Price's career.
• BBC Radio 3 - The Essay: Simon Heffer contextualizes the film within post-war Britain.
• Alternate American Ending: Reveals cultural differences in preferred film endings.
• Restoration Comparison: Visual comparison showcasing restoration efforts.
• Behind the Scenes Stills Gallery: Collection of studio portraits and location shots.
• Excerpts from BECTU Interview with Douglas Slocombe: Insights from the lighting cameraman.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer for nostalgic cinema marketing.

Robert Hamer's "Kind Hearts and Coronets" is presented on Blu-ray with a meticulously restored 1080p AVC/MPEG-4 transfer, showcased in the original 1.33:1 aspect ratio. This release features Douglas Slocombe’s illustrious black-and-white cinematography in all its glory. The sharpness of the image, perfectly balanced contrast, and rich black levels make it hard to believe this film was originally released in 1949. The transformation ensures the comedic yet dark tone of the movie is preserved, enhancing the viewer’s experience. Additionally, the original mono audio track has been digitally cleaned, resulting in clear, crisp dialogue free from any distortions such as hiss or pops.

The narrative follows the unforgettable character Louis Mazzini (Dennis Price), an aristocrat with Italian lineage who methodically eliminates the D'Ascoyne family members, portrayed masterfully by Alec Guinness in eight distinct roles. Mazzini’s chilling elegance and polite demeanor juxtaposed with his cold-blooded killings lend a morbid charm to this dark comedy. Price’s portrayal is both captivating and disturbing, making his character's manipulation and ruthlessness fascinating to watch. Hamer's direction underscores the humor with a dry, cold wit that perfectly complements the film's satirical exploration of class and morality.

This Blu-ray release also includes a wealth of supplemental features: an insightful documentary on Dennis Price, an audio commentary, interviews with cinematographer Douglas Slocombe, a restoration comparison, a stills gallery, and more. These additional materials provide valuable context and enhance appreciation for both the film and its restoration process. Overall, this Blu-ray edition of "Kind Hearts and Coronets" not only preserves but elevates one of Ealing Studio’s darkest and most delightful comedies.

Arguably one of the greatest black comedies ever made, Robert Hamer's "Kind Hearts and Coronets" has been recently restored and now brought to Blu-ray by British distributors Optimum Home Entertainment. The restoration work is exceptional, providing a pristine visual experience that surpasses any previous home video edition. The picture clarity uncovers intricate details, preserving the film’s elegant 1900s settings while enhancing the subtle nuances of the actors' performances. Technical precision in color grading ensures the black-and-white cinematography shines, making this Blu-ray release a visual treat for both long-time fans and new viewers alike.

Audio quality has also seen an impressive upgrade, with a restored mono track that remains clear and well-balanced. Dialogue is crisp, allowing the film’s witty script to be fully appreciated. Although this is not a modern surround sound mix, the preservation of the original audio design respects the film's historical and artistic integrity. Supplemental features on the disc are both plentiful and insightful, offering valuable context through documentaries, interviews, and commentary tracks that explore the film's production history, narrative intricacies, and lasting impact on the genre.

If you have the capability to play Region-B locked Blu-ray discs, this release is an essential addition to your collection. "Kind Hearts and Coronets" remains a cornerstone of British cinema, and this stunning Blu-ray presentation ensures that its legacy will continue to endure. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.