Original Cast Album: Company Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Collection's Blu-ray presentation of Original Cast Album: Company offers a meticulously executed AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio. This new digital transfer, captured in 16-bit 4K resolution using a Lasergraphics Director film scanner, originates from the original 16mm A/B Ektachrome reversal, while the opening credits benefit from restoration via a 35mm blowup. The restoration process involved extensive manual clean-up using MTI Film's DRS for dirt and debris removal, coupled with Digital Vision's Phoenix treatment to mitigate issues like jitter and flicker. The monaural soundtrack received careful remastering with Avid's Pro Tools and iZotope RX, adding to the nuanced archival work on this storied production.

Criterion's execution retains the raw, spontaneous energy inherent in this low-budget documentary format. The transfer successfully balances authentic grit with noticeable enhancements in color saturation and detail clarity when compared to previous editions. However, the natural grain—heightened by the resolution upgrade—serves as a reminder of the 16mm film's origins. There is a captivating intimacy woven into these visuals, especially with extreme close-ups that lay bare the physical dedication of performers. Despite occasional blurring in wide shots due to historical technical constraints, Criterion’s commitment to fidelity ensures that textured details like facial hair and fabric suspend viewers in the moment.

Overall, this effort offers an organic visual experience that invites audiences directly into the heart of the recording studio atmosphere. While bearing some minor imperfections typical of vintage film, Criterion has crafted a compelling and highly faithful preservation of this cultural artifact, promising endurance for future audiences to explore and enjoy.

The audio presentation on the Blu-ray of "Original Cast Album: Company" benefits from a finely crafted LPCM Mono track. Expertly remastered from original 1/4-inch and 16 mm magnetic tracks, the audio fidelity is exceptional, capturing both musical and spoken moments with impressive clarity. Although the presentation is not particularly wide, it does convey the essence of being in the recording studio, providing listeners with a high degree of immersion. The dynamic range accommodates both the powerful ensemble numbers and more subtle individual performances without distortion, maintaining a clean audio profile devoid of hiss, pops, or crackles.

Particularly noteworthy is the track's ability to render the emotional intensity of Stritch's performance in "Ladies Who Lunch," offering a depth of tone and crystal clarity that enhances the listening experience. Despite these strengths, some die-hard fans may find that certain mumbled asides, notably during the Stritch incident, remain less comprehensible, though overall dialogue comprehension is strong. The presence of optional English subtitles offers a practical solution for those seeking clarity in these moments.

Criterion's Blu-Ray release of "Original Cast Album: Company" impresses with a comprehensive lineup of extras that provide rich context and multifaceted insights into the acclaimed documentary and its broader theatrical universe. These supplements, both newly recorded and archival, offer engaging memories and expert reflections from legendary figures such as Stephen Sondheim, D.A. Pennebaker, and Elaine Stritch. The set delves deep into creative processes, notable performance moments, and the lasting impact of the Company album, further enriched by the entertaining parody segment from IFC's "Documentary Now!". This collection of extras is a must-watch for enthusiasts of musical theatre history and cast recordings.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentaries: Archival and new discussions with Pennebaker, Prince, Stritch, and Sondheim.
• Side by Side: A conversation with Sondheim and Tunick.
• Jonathan Tunick: An interview on orchestration.
• Original Cast Album: Co-op: A spoof by "Documentary Now!".
• Documentary Now! Conversation: Discussion on the original and spoof.
• Additional Commentary Excerpts: Rare outtakes from original commentary sessions.

The Blu-ray release of "Original Cast Album: Company" captures D.A. Pennebaker’s insightful documentation of the intense recording session for this landmark musical. Stephen Sondheim's work on "Company" transformed his recognition from primarily a lyricist to a celebrated composer-lyricist. The inclusion of both historical context and new content, such as a commentary with Sondheim himself, enriches this release significantly. It offers viewers insight into Sondheim's relationship with book writer George Furth and his broader career. The documentary reveals the frenetic yet collaborative environment of a 1970s cast recording, featuring notable interactions with stars like Elaine Stritch, whose spirited struggles are memorably captured.

"Company" was groundbreaking, deftly merging linear storytelling with revue-style vignettes led by Bobby and his social circles, presenting a fresh narrative structure that challenged Broadway conventions. The film not only showcases Sondheim’s remarkable compositions — such as "Being Alive" and "The Ladies Who Lunch" — but also highlights the tactile, analog process of recording cast albums in the pre-digital era. Pennebaker’s unobtrusive camera captures the dynamic synergy between the cast and orchestra and offers detailed glimpses into the technical and emotional ordeals involved in creating a timeless soundtrack.

This Blu-ray is a treasure trove for musical theater aficionados and historians alike. Pennebaker’s intimate access to the sessions brings viewers close to the creative genius of Sondheim and his team, preserving a pivotal moment in musical theater history with raw authenticity. Supplementary features complement the viewing, making this an essential resource for understanding the production of one of Broadway’s most influential works. Whether you're a dedicated theater geek or an admirer of artistic creativity, "Original Cast Album: Company" immortalizes the fervor and precision behind an iconic musical legacy.

The Blu-ray release of "Original Cast Album: Company" offers an exceptional deep dive into the creative genius of Stephen Sondheim and the meticulous process behind recording a groundbreaking Broadway musical. D.A. Pennebaker's acclaimed documentary captures the raw tension and exuberant energy of the original cast, highlighting Sondheim's transformation from a celebrated lyricist to a truly revolutionary composer. The Criterion release succeeds on multiple fronts, providing a video transfer that preserves the visual authenticity of the 1970s while enhancing it with robust audio quality.

Viewers are treated to not just a technical triumph but also an emotionally charged narrative that showcases the dedication and talent of the performers, as well as the detailed craftsmanship that defines Sondheim's work. Musical theater enthusiasts and Sondheim fans will find the documentary's supplemental features particularly enriching, offering additional insights and rare glimpses into this pivotal moment in musical theater history.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray edition of "Original Cast Album: Company" stands as a testament to Sondheim’s everlasting impact on Broadway, augmented by Criterion’s high-quality presentation. It serves both as an engaging historical document for theatrical aficionados and a compelling exploration of artistic perseverance. Highly recommended for those who appreciate musical theater and wish to explore the cohesive blend of human emotion and musical brilliance.