The Night of the Grizzly Blu-ray Review

The AVC-encoded 1080p transfer of "The Night of the Grizzly" in 2.35:1 offers a predominantly satisfactory but occasionally middling high-definition presentation. The most striking feature is the presence of consistent, film-like grain that imbues the image with a rich, authentic texture reminiscent of classic cinema. Some shots, especially of blue skies against mountainous backdrops, do exhibit clumpy grain, although this appears to be inherent in the original source elements rather than a flaw in the digital transfer. Instances of print damage are present, such as occasional pops, flecks, and discolorations at the frame edges, but these minor defects do not significantly detract from overall visual integrity.

However, the transfer struggles with contrast issues. In brightly lit scenes, flesh tones tend to blend into the background, which can distract from the otherwise decent sharpness observed in midrange and close-up shots. Conversely, night scenes featuring the dark black bear are plagued by shadow detail loss and severe crushing, smothering finer details and impacting viewer immersion. While black levels provide some satisfactory shadow play and atmosphere during nocturnal sequences, some crushing persists, detracting from detail during pivotal moments.

Color reproduction is generally earthy and adequate, with occasional vibrant bursts in elements like blood and clothing. Skin tones are notably tanned and leathery. Notable detail includes weather-beaten faces, woven fabrics, and clearly defined environmental features such as wood grain and rifle stocks. Though colors sometimes appear pallid, likely due to age-related fade, the palette retains a degree of vividness where necessary. Slight aliasing occurs, but there is no significant banding, DNR, or edge enhancement. Despite the contrast issues, this transfer successfully presents intricate details and textures but may frustrate some viewers due to its handling of black levels.

The DTS-HD MA 1.0 mono track of "The Night of the Grizzly" presents a faithful and accurate rendition of the original audio. The dialogue is consistently clear and never gets lost amidst the action, maintaining a strong presence throughout. Notably, the voices of Clint Walker and Leo Gordon are both robust and mellifluous. The score by Leith Stevens is clear and well-represented, though slightly brittle at times. Sound effects like the breaking of a whiskey bottle and the thudding of fists during brawls are vivid and solidly rendered, adding authenticity to the action. Despite some repetitious effects, such as fist-on-bone impacts, they remain satisfying.

The Mono track also captures the more nuanced elements of sound design. The marauding bear’s roar, while somewhat muted by the single-channel format’s limitations, still bites into the mix effectively. Gunshots have a pleasant “crunch,” especially notable with Winchester rifle sounds and ricochets. Mechanical sound effects, such as the snapping of man-traps and the crashing through stable walls, are delivered with a firm degree of impact that adds depth to the film’s more intense scenes. Despite a naturally narrow and fairly shallow sound field, lower frequency moments offer surprising fullness and create a more immersive auditory experience. The audio presentation generally maintains a solid foundation even if bass levels aren't spectacular.

In summary, while the sound design is undoubtedly from an older era, it remains engaging and robust enough to satisfy listeners. From dramatic fistfights to the impactful bear scenes, the Blu-ray's audio delivers a pleasing, if not exceptional, listening experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Night of the Grizzly" by Olive Films delightfully surprises fans with added extras, enriching the overall viewing experience. Notably, the disc includes a heartfelt 27-minute featurette, showcasing an interview with the venerable Clint Walker. The actor fondly revisits his time portraying Big Jim Cole, shares anecdotes about the film’s production, and even reflects on his career in law enforcement. This retrospective provides invaluable insights into both the actor and his character, offering a rare glimpse into the film's legacy. The inclusion of such supplementary content is a commendable effort by Olive Films, enhancing the allure of this classic release.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Legend of Big Jim Cole: An engaging retrospective interview with Clint Walker, exploring his favorite role and behind-the-scenes stories.

In "The Night of the Grizzly," director Joseph Pevney crafts an engaging, albeit predictable, tale set in the rugged outdoors. The film stars Clint Walker as Big Jim Cole, a former sheriff who inherits a 640-acre ranch only to find himself in debt and at odds with the malicious Jed Curry, played by Keenan Wynn. Shot in the stunning San Bernardino National Forest, the film showcases impressive landscapes, enhancing its authentic Western feel. The narrative tension is driven by dual threats: Curry's scheme to reclaim the land through underhanded means and a menacing grizzly bear devastating local farms.

Walker shines as the lead, embodying the rugged everyman hero, supported by a robust cast that includes Martha Hyer and Nancy Kulp. Hyer's character, Angela, although glamorously styled more like a 1966 icon than an 1866 homesteader, adds a touch of charm to the ensemble. The film strikes a balance between tension and warmth, with familial bonds and light comedic moments intertwined seamlessly with the more grim and brawling aspects.

Technically, Olive Film’s release offers an unrestored yet detailed high-definition transfer that remains faithful to its source material. The cinematic aesthetics of the vintage film are well-preserved, and the added bonus of an interview with an aging but still charismatic Clint Walker enriches the release. Pevney’s adept framing of action scenes with location footage lends credibility to the plight of the Cole family, making "The Night of the Grizzly" an exhilarating and well-crafted piece of vintage Americana that resonates with charm and tension.

The Night of the Grizzly is a classic Western that offers a blend of heartwarming and engaging elements, despite occasionally veering into less intense territory. The film's most significant assets are its beautifully shot locations in the San Bernardino National Forest, delivering breathtaking vistas and rich scenery that elevate the visual experience. Clint Walker's performance, characterized by his commanding physical presence, adds an air of authenticity and charm to the story. Keenan Wynn's portrayal of a spirited villain further enhances the film's appeal, injecting moments of delightful antagonism. While some bear sequences may come off as more whimsical than menacing, the overall ambiance is pleasingly nostalgic.

From a technical perspective, the Blu-ray release of The Night of the Grizzly has a few noticeable issues in video quality that might not meet the high standards of videophiles. These inconsistencies are evident in some scenes where the transfer appears less refined. However, the audio presentation is solid, ensuring dialogues and scenic sounds are clear and immersive. The supplementary materials included in the Blu-ray are minimal but provide some insightful context about the film's production and cast.

In conclusion, The Night of the Grizzly may not be the pinnacle of Western cinema, but it offers a delightful experience with a strong sense of place and earnest performances. Those appreciative of classic Westerns and stunning natural backdrops will find much to enjoy. Due to some video quality issues, a rental might be advisable for viewers sensitive to such elements before committing to a purchase for their collections.