The Bells of St. Mary's Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Bells of St. Mary's" presents a significant technical upgrade courtesy of Olive Films' new 4K restoration. Encoded in MPEG-4 AVC and presented in its original 1.27:1 aspect ratio with a 1080p transfer, this high-quality edition breathes new life into the 74-year-old film, delivering both vitality and nostalgic warmth. A natural grain structure maintains the authentic feel of celluloid, enhancing the viewer's experience without imposing modern digital intrusions. Density levels have vastly improved, showing minimized fluctuations and a more ‘tightly’ controlled image quality compared to previous editions. This enhancement is particularly noticeable in close-up shots that display better delineation without requiring larger screens.

Additionally, overall visual stability and fluidity have been addressed, with smoother transitions throughout the film. Although some inherent limitations of the source material remain visible owing to the film’s age, the visuals appear healthier and better graded, making for an overall superior viewing experience. Contrast is slightly hot, producing a slightly over-bright picture that still maintains deep blacks and crisp whites free from blooming. The grayscale has seen meticulous attention, bringing out finer textures in costumes and set details while keeping background elements discernible. Minor visual inconsistencies such as infrequent stray marks do not detract from the pristine experience. Olive Films has truly provided a top-tier product with this signature edition, and it sets a high bar for future restorations of classic films.

The Blu-ray release of "The Bells of St. Mary's" comes with a single audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. This audio presentation does an admirable job of honoring the original sound design by Stephen Dunn, which received the Oscar for Best Sound Recording. The track maintains clarity and stability throughout, displaying commendable dynamic intensity for a film of its era. Dialogue is consistently clear and easy to follow, ensuring that viewers can fully engage with the narrative without strain.

Sound effects play a crucial role in enhancing the film's atmosphere. Notable sonic elements such as the shrill school bell, shattering glass, and honking car horns are sharply delineated and impactful, while more subtle touches like creaking floorboards add to the environment's authenticity. Bing Crosby's renowned musical interludes sound rich and resonant, reflecting the high quality of the original recording. The Oscar-nominated score by Robert Emmett Dolan is reproduced with a fullness that effectively envelops the listening space.

The audio quality remains free from distortions, dropouts, or significant age-related artifacts such as pops or crackle. However, listeners who prefer higher volume levels might occasionally detect a very light background hiss. This minor issue is generally unobtrusive and does not detract from the overall listening experience. Optional yellow English subtitles are available for the main feature, providing additional support where needed. This DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track stands as a testament to both the original sound recording's excellence and Olive's efforts in preserving it through this Blu-ray release.

The Blu-ray edition of "The Bells of St. Mary's" features an array of comprehensive extras that offer thorough insights into the film's production, cultural impact, and historical context. Notable contributions include Gary Giddins' engaging audio commentary, which delves into production details, censorship challenges, and Ingrid Bergman's passionate portrayal of Sister Benedict. The various featurettes add depth, with Steve Massa offering a vivid chronicle of director Leo McCarey's evolving career and Emily Carman outlining the origins of Hollywood franchises. The inclusion of archival radio adaptations enhances the historical richness, drawing listeners into the era's broadcast style. Overall, this Blu-ray set is an excellent resource for cinephiles and scholars alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Screen Guild Theater Radio Adaptations: Two archival radio adaptations featuring Bing Crosby, Ingrid Bergman, and Jean Carroll.
• Before Sequel-itis: Professor Emily Carman discusses Hollywood franchise history.
• Human Nature: Film historian Steve Massa on Leo McCarey’s career and filmmaking style.
• Faith and Film: St. Rose Pacatte discusses the film's humor and themes.
• Commentary: Audio commentary by Bing Crosby biographer Gary Giddins.
• Booklet: 8-page illustrated booklet with an essay by Abbey Bender.

Leo McCarey's "The Bells of St. Mary's" (1945) reaches new heights with its Blu-ray release. Supplementary features such as new audio commentary by Gary Giddins and video programs with film historian Steve Massa enrich the viewing experience. The 8-page booklet with an essay by Abbey Bender further complements the package. Presented in English with SDH subtitles, this Region-A locked edition shines with a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video codec and DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 sound.

As a follow-up to the Oscar-winning "Going My Way," "The Bells of St. Mary's" maintains high accolades, including seven Oscar nominations and a win for Best Sound Recording, making it RKO's most successful release. Bing Crosby reprises his iconic role as Father Chuck O'Malley. In a deft narrative shift, Ingrid Bergman stars as Sister Mary Benedict, head of a beleaguered inner-city school. Their dynamic—blending Crosby’s rule-bending charm and Bergman’s steadfast devotion—drives the film's emotional core. Horace Bogardus (Henry Travers) provides a compelling antagonist, while the supporting cast excels, notably Joan Carroll as the struggling student Patsy Gallagher.

The episodic nature of the film weaves together numerous narrative threads with warmth, comedy, and heartfelt drama, thanks to Dudley Nichols' literate screenplay. McCarey's direction avoids maudlin tendencies by emphasizing simplicity and genuine emotional engagement. Highlights include Crosby's musical performances and an endearing nativity play by young children. Bergman’s luminous portrayal of Sister Benedict solidifies her status as one of cinema’s most believable nuns. Travers' memorable turn as a Scrooge-like figure adds depth, underscoring themes that remain relevant even today. During troubled times, "The Bells of St. Mary's" offers a refreshing, uplifting respite, embodying timeless inspirational cinema.

Olive Films' latest Signature Edition Blu-ray release of "The Bells of St. Mary's" showcases the film's enduring charm with a meticulously sourced new 4K restoration. The enhanced visuals breathe new life into this timeless classic, ensuring that Bing Crosby's and Ingrid Bergman's heartfelt performances are captured in crisp detail. Accompanied by lossless audio, the viewing experience is markedly improved, allowing audiences to truly appreciate the subtleties of Leo McCarey’s direction and the film’s overall sound design.

In addition to the technical upgrade, Olive Films has enriched this release with a robust selection of bonus features. The inclusion of an insightful audio commentary by Bing Crosby biographer Gary Giddins stands out, adding depth and context to the viewing experience. The package is further complemented by an eight-page booklet that provides additional insights into the film’s production and legacy. These elements collectively distinguish this edition from previous releases, making it a substantial upgrade for both casual viewers and collectors.

"The Bells of St. Mary's" may not be categorized strictly as a holiday film, but its inspirational tone and heartwarming narrative resonate profoundly during the holiday season. This emotionally stirring sequel to "Going My Way" continues to capture hearts with its messages of faith and simplicity. The Signature Edition’s refined presentation and thoughtful supplements invite both new audiences and longtime fans to immerse themselves in the film’s everlasting appeal.

If you already own Olive Films' first release of "The Bells of St. Mary's" and have been waiting to hear if the label's upcoming Signature Edition is worth picking up, the answer is yes. It is sourced from a very nice new 4K restoration that offers meaningful improvements. This upcoming release also has a good selection of exclusive new bonus features, including a nice audio commentary by Bing Crosby biographer Gary Giddins. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.