Rancho Notorious Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Rancho Notorious" offers an exemplary video presentation that combines meticulous restoration with a deep respect for its original Technicolor roots. Stemming from a recent 4K scan of the original three-strip Technicolor camera negatives, this 1080p transfer from Warner Archive demonstrates impressive clarity and authenticity. The process successfully eliminates dirt, debris, and other age-related wear while maintaining the film's native texture. The result is a striking image that excels in detail, depth, contrast levels, and color saturation. This preservation effort includes consulting a 35mm dye transfer print for color accuracy, ensuring no modern colorization adulterates the film's visual allure. Despite isolated instances of slight color shifting, the overall presentation meets high standards expected by purists.

Technically, the transfer utilizes the AVC codec within the film’s traditional 1.37:1 aspect ratio, enhancing sharpness to where details—even the folds in painted backdrops—emerge clearly. This sharpness also accentuates the textures in costumes and the film's intricate western decor. The film-like appeal is bolstered by vivid Technicolor hues that explode into view post-opening credits. Elements like inky blacks, bright whites, and well-defined shadow delineation further enhance visual fidelity. The seductive blend of bold reds, lush greens, and expansive blues defines an irresistible and timeless color palette.

Close-ups are particularly noteworthy, showcasing Dietrich’s ageless magnetism with significant clarity, along with the evocative features of other cast members. The pristine source print remains free from nicks or scratches, with only occasional softness failing to diminish the picture’s splendor. Warner Archive delivers a near-flawless visual treat that pays homage both to the cinematic craftsmanship of Hal Mohr and to the enduring glamour of classic Hollywood.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track on the Blu-ray presentation of "Rancho Notorious" has been meticulously restored, delivering a remarkably clean and balanced audio experience. The track's fidelity is impressive, with all age-related issues such as hiss, crackle, pops, or flutter completely eliminated. Dialogue is consistently crisp and clear throughout, maintaining excellent placement and a strong, centered presence. William Lee's narration and vocals are particularly robust and assertive, taking center stage with resonant conviction that adds depth to the audio presentation.

Emil Newman's score, alongside Marlene Dietrich’s sultry rendition of "Get Away Young Man," is presented with a wide dynamic scale, exhibiting both the highs and lows without distortion. Acoustic accents such as gunfire, fisticuffs, and galloping horse hooves are presented with precision, further enhancing the auditory experience. Although the mono track lacks the surround sound complexity found in modern mixes, it compensates with impressive tonal depth and fidelity.

Overall, this audio mix serves as a solid complement to the film’s visual presentation. Optional English (SDH) subtitles are available, aiding any viewers who require them. Die-hard fans of the genre and film will find this restoration satisfying in how it preserves the film's auditory essence while enhancing clarity and immersion.

The Blu Ray release of "Rancho Notorious" disappoints in terms of supplementary content. Despite the film's classic status and previous online availability of its trailer, the disc fails to include any additional materials such as behind-the-scenes insights or historical contexts, which are valuable to enthusiasts and film historians. The absence of even the most basic extras like a trailer contrasts sharply with the expectations typically set for archival releases. This omission underscores a missed opportunity to enhance the viewing experience and deepen the appreciation of this cinematic work. As it stands, the disc provides only the core movie without any added features to engage viewers further.

Extras included in this disc:

• None: The release contains no additional content such as trailers or featurettes.

Fritz Lang's "Rancho Notorious" ventures into the Western genre, featuring a narrative punctuated by themes of hate, murder, and revenge, depicted in vivid Technicolor. The film follows Wyoming rancher Vern Haskell, played with intensity by Arthur Kennedy, as he pursues justice for his fiancée's brutal death. Marlene Dietrich's portrayal of Altar Keane, a former saloon singer harboring outlaws for a cut of their spoils, adds a powerful dynamic to the story. Despite some character clichés and a plot that occasionally leans on convenience, the intriguing setup provides a fertile ground for strong performances. The supporting cast, including Mel Ferrer and George Reeves, enrich the immersion in this atmospheric Western.

Technically, the film stands out with Hal Mohr's vibrant cinematography, although it lacks the expansive grandeur seen in later CinemaScope productions. Lang's directorial style injects his signature noir elements into the Western setting, creating a unique albeit uneven cinematic experience. While Dietrich’s glamor and charisma dominate, potentially overshadowing other characters, it is her commanding presence that sustains viewer engagement throughout the film. Her aesthetic choices were reportedly a point of contention with Lang, yet they undeniably enhance her screen allure, contributing to the film's unusual appeal.

Although "Rancho Notorious" is not a pinnacle of its genre, its unique narrative offers a compelling glimpse into Lang's stylistic versatility. With a mix of engaging dialogue and action sequences, the film captures enough tension and allure to entertain classic movie enthusiasts and Western aficionados alike. It remains notable for presenting one of the rare instances of a female-centric Western, augmented by the formidable Dietrich. Despite some shortcomings in script and execution, it maintains its status as a noteworthy entry in Lang's diverse oeuvre.

Fritz Lang’s "Rancho Notorious" is a Technicolor Western that commands attention, mainly due to Lang's German Expressionist influence which permeates the film. While the narrative traverses familiar revenge territory, it is energized by standout performances, particularly from Marlene Dietrich, whose magnetic presence dominates. Supported by strong performances from Arthur Kennedy and Mel Ferrer, the film embodies the aesthetics of its time while showcasing Lang’s knack for stylistic flair and subtle noir undertones.

The Warner Archive’s Blu-ray release is an impressive restoration, sourced from a 4K scan of the original nitrate negative, offering a visual experience that not only surpasses previous home releases but arguably excels beyond original theatrical showings. Despite the lack of supplemental material, the five-star transfer ensures that both visual and audio quality are robust, preserving the film's vibrant Technicolor greatly and enhancing every detail of its grandeur for dedicated fans and newcomers alike.

In conclusion, while "Rancho Notorious" might not transcend its genre limitations entirely, it stands as a significant representation of mid-century Westerns through Lang's unique directorial lens. The Warner Archive Blu-ray is an essential addition for enthusiasts of the director, the stars, or the Western genre, offering an exceptional audiovisual upgrade that rescues this minor classic with a major facelift. Highly recommended to aficionados seeking quality over quantity in film restoration.