Stand-In Blu-ray Review

ClassicFlix's Blu-ray presentation of "Stand-In" employs an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original 1.33:1 theatrical aspect ratio. With film elements initially found to be severely deteriorated, the discovery of better-condition materials at the British Film Institute spurred an extensive restoration process. Despite notable challenges, the improvement in stability, contrast, and grayscale representation is significant. The restoration included massive efforts to reduce dirt, damage, and dust specks, with before and after comparisons showcasing the extent of this work.

The image quality is generally pleasing, respecting the film’s grain structure while maintaining a natural aesthetic. Although minor signs of age such as white and black scratches persist, the overall clarity and detail levels show impressive enhancement. Variability in grain structure and occasional wear remain, but these are outweighed by the remarkable stability achieved. The grayscale image appears robust, with very good black levels. The diligence shown in the restoration ultimately brings new life to this rare comedic gem, making it a valuable addition to the home video market.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Stand-In" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, which, while generally clear and adequately expressive, reveals its age through certain audio artifacts. The high end of the spectrum, particularly within the minimal music score, sounds somewhat muffled. This can become quite noticeable during quieter scenes. However, dialogue is rendered with a satisfactory level of clarity, ensuring that viewers can follow conversations with minimal strain. Nonetheless, there is a detectable level of background hiss and occasional crackle, which, although reduced from the original source, has not been completely eliminated.

Despite these minor imperfections, the overall mix remains professionally balanced. Dialogue, Rex Rommell’s musical score, and the assorted sound effects have been well-integrated into the mono track. These technical choices ensure that each element maintains a coherent presence within the audio experience. While some blemishes persist, they do not significantly detract from the effectiveness of the sound design in conveying the film's narrative and emotional tones.

The extra features presented in the Blu Ray of "Stand-In" offer a compelling and technically rich insight into the restoration process of this classic title. The disc includes a Restoration Demonstration, which vividly documents the severe damage present in the original elements and showcases the meticulous restoration work through split screens and side-by-side frames. Additionally, viewers may find the menu navigation slightly challenging due to the color scheme used, where selected options become difficult to read. It also includes trailers for other Classic Flix releases, though the automatic launch of "Merrily We Live" can be somewhat intrusive.

Extras included in this disc:

• Restoration Demonstration: Shows severe damage and restoration efforts via split screens and side-by-side frames.
• Classic Flix Trailers: Includes trailers for Blondie (TV series), Down Three Dark Streets, Raw Deal, Tomorrow Is Forever, and Merrily We Live.

Set amidst the backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, Tay Garnett’s "Stand-In" offers an intriguing yet somewhat schizoid mix of satire, farce, and drama. The film centers on accountant Atterbury Dodd (Leslie Howard), appointed by his boss Fowler Pennypacker (Tully Marshall) to assess the viability of the ailing Colossal Studios. Unbeknownst to Dodd, the studio’s downward spiral is orchestrated by Ivor Nassau (C. Henry Gordon) and his conspirators, including diva Thelma Cheri (Marla Shelton) and egotistical director Koslofski (Alan Mowbray). In a humorous twist of fate, Dodd finds himself guided through this treacherous terrain by stand-in Lester Plum (Joan Blondell), whose down-to-earth nature becomes indispensable. Despite the airtight plot and enjoyable performances, the film’s inconsistent tone—oscillating between screwball humor and serious capitalist critique—leaves it feeling unbalanced.

"Stand-In" leverages some elements found in Capra-esque films but diverges significantly due to its focus on an upper-crust protagonist entangled in the shenanigans of Hollywood's elite. Unlike Capra's common-man heroes, Dodd is a patrician who inadvertently stumbles into a battle of wills with Nassau and his cohorts. The setting allows for a skewering analysis of Hollywood, drawing loose comparisons to films like "Sullivan's Travels." Some scenes, such as the antics on the set of the ill-fated epic "Sex and Satan," showcase zany humor, while others delve into social and economic commentaries reminiscent of proletarian cinema. Yet the screenplay falls short in delivering Capra's noble thematic aspirations.

The supporting cast adds notable depth: Humphrey Bogart's portrayal of producer Douglas Quintain is tinged with tragic elegance despite comedic undertones, while Joan Blondell shines as Lester, offering both levity and emotional gravity. Directed with a steady hand by Garnett, "Stand-In" navigates its ninety-minute runtime without exhausting the viewer’s patience. Even as it fumbles with tonal shifts, the film remains an enjoyable artifact of its era, delivering both critique and comedy against the glitzy façade of Tinseltown.

The Blu-ray release of "Stand-In" by ClassicFlix showcases a quintessential yet underappreciated dramedy from the 1930s directed by Tay Garnett. This film, featuring commendable performances from a trio of top stars, navigates the chaotic world of Hollywood with an eye for the acerbic yet humorous nuances characteristic of its era. The restoration work carried out is noteworthy, meticulously addressing numerous issues inherent in the aged source materials. However, some defects remain perceptible, reflecting the inherent challenges in rejuvenating older film stock.

The film itself treads familiar territory within the screwball comedy genre but does so with charm and occasional sharp wit. While the screenplay and casting may not consistently hit the mark of the genre's finest examples, there are moments that shine, particularly in its satirical take on Tinseltown's extravagances. The supporting cast deliver performances that, though sometimes understated, offer an enjoyable viewing experience filled with amusing asides and character-driven humor.

ClassicFlix's diligence in the restoration process has breathed new life into "Stand-In," overcoming significant technical obstacles. Though imperfect, the Blu-ray presentation offers a visual quality that significantly enhances the film's accessibility and enjoyment for contemporary audiences. This release stands as a testament to the value of preserving and celebrating cinematic history, bringing back a film that deserves renewed appreciation.

In summary, "Stand-In" may not fully capture the heights of its genre but remains an enjoyable piece of cinema that provides insightful commentary on the film industry of its time. ClassicFlix’s restoration ensures that modern audiences can appreciate its charm and historical significance despite the challenges posed by its original elements. This release is a worthwhile addition to any classic film collection.