The Hallelujah Trail Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "The Hallelujah Trail" presents a 1080p transfer, showcasing the film in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Sourced from a new 2K master prepared by MGM, this release offers considerable improvements over the previous version, which was derived from a standard definition source. The increased detail, clarity, and depth are evident throughout the film, even though it does not represent a full restoration. Minor surface imperfections and occasional traditional damage are present, particularly noticeable in one area post-caravan negotiations. Nevertheless, visuals demonstrate excellent delineation and stability, without problematic digital corrections, ensuring an organic appearance.

Color fidelity is generally strong, with stable tones across the board. However, certain scenes suggest a more balanced color spectrum in blues and browns could enhance the overall viewing experience—areas where 4K could potentially excel. As it stands, the color balance is predominantly satisfying, notably in darker areas where blacks, grays, and dark hues exhibit nuanced depth. Film grain and fine details are meticulously represented, with minimal instances of scratches, tears, or dirt affecting the visual quality.

In summary, this Blu-ray release is significantly superior to any previous offerings of the film on home video, with remarkable visual improvements despite some areas that could benefit from future enhancements in higher resolution formats. As a Region-A locked release, appropriate playback equipment is required for access. This Blu-ray is currently the best representation of "The Hallelujah Trail" available for home viewing, bringing a classic film back to life with respectable fidelity.

The Blu-ray release of "The Hallelujah Trail" is equipped with two commendable audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, offering viewers a flexible listening experience. Optional English subtitles, positioned seamlessly within the image frame, enhance accessibility. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track showcases an impressive blend of clarity, sharpness, and dynamic intensity. Listeners will appreciate the depth and engaging mix, especially since it retains the essence of Elmer Bernstein's majestic score without the flaws commonly found in previous versions, such as flutter, clicking, or distortion.

In addition to the audio quality, this release includes the complete overture, intermission, entr’acte, and exit music from the roadshow version, enriching the auditory experience. This Blu-ray presentation notably surpasses past home video formats, ensuring a superior auditory experience. While previous screenings have featured a special track for 70mm presentations, the current audio tracks on this Blu-ray do not disappoint, offering a faithfully preserved and enhanced experience that immerses the viewer in the film’s playful and majestic soundscape.

The Blu-ray release of "The Hallelujah Trail" offers a robust selection of extras that enrich the viewing experience. Central to these is an engaging and informative audio commentary by filmmaker/critic Michael Schlesinger and author/screenwriter C. Courtney Joyner. Their commentary delves deeply into various aspects of the film including its production, casting choices, the work of director John Sturges, and cinematographer Robert Surtees. They also discuss the film's aspect ratio and Elmer Bernstein’s notable soundtrack, providing a wealth of information that aficionados of westerns and cinema history will find invaluable. Moreover, the vintage trailer offers a nostalgic glimpse into the film's original marketing strategy, further enhanced by a selection of trailers from other classic films.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: A vintage promotional trailer for "The Hallelujah Trail."
• Commentary: Insightful discussion by Michael Schlesinger and C. Courtney Joyner.
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Trailers from a selection of related classic films.

"The Hallelujah Trail," directed by John Sturges, emerges as a distinctly intriguing blend of action and comedy, richly captured on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber. Set against the backdrop of an imminent winter in 1867 Denver, the film weaves a tapestry of comedic escapades revolving around the dwindling whiskey supplies for the local miners. The storyline unfolds with the ambitious Frank Wallingham (Brian Keith) leading a wagon train of liquor amid a melee involving Sioux Indians, a citizen's militia, and temperance activist Cora Templeton Massingale (Lee Remick), whose growing affection for U.S. Army Cavalry Col. Thaddeus Gearhart (Burt Lancaster) adds romantic tension to the comedic chaos.

The film's standout feature is its organic chemistry between a talented ensemble cast, reminiscent of the same charm found in Stanley Kramer's "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World." The interplay among actors elevates even minor scenes, such as the alcohol-laden banter between Lancaster's stoic Gearhart and Remick's defiant Massingale. These performances are enriched by the sumptuous visuals of Oscar-winning cinematographer Robert Surtees, who delivers grand and vibrant scenes that offer a delightful spectacle to accompany Elmer Bernstein's rousing score. Although not every comic moment lands perfectly, the straight-faced delivery imbues successful comedic beats with greater impact.

Despite its extended setup and occasional pacing lulls, "The Hallelujah Trail" maintains a captivating allure thanks to its production values and the deft handling of comedic elements by Sturges. The film benefits from an impressive cast, with Donald Pleasence's role as the whiskey-loving "Oracle" Jones and Jim Hutton's portrayal of Gearhart’s right-hand man providing additional layers of humor and earnestness. While the plot could potentially oscillate into more compelling territories, the effortless charm and unyielding chemistry make for an entertaining and visually striking cinematic experience.

"The Hallelujah Trail" features an engaging blend of satire and comedy that retains unexpected sincerity, primarily stemming from the natural chemistry among its cast and John Sturges' intuitive direction. The film, set against spectacular period visuals, crafts an entertaining narrative despite its predictability. This latest Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber is excellently sourced from a high-quality master, ensuring the visual and audio fidelity is exceptional for home viewing. Additionally, it includes a rich, exclusive audio commentary by critics C. Courtney Joyner and Michael Schlesinger, which adds substantial value for both aficionados and new viewers.

This release distinguishes itself as probably the finest home video edition to date, surpassing previous DVDs and Blu-rays. It provides a complete HD transfer accompanied by important musical elements like the overture, intermission, entr'acte, and exit music from the roadshow version. These additions contribute significantly to producing an authentic viewing experience reminiscent of its original theatrical run. Such inclusivity in this edition marks it as not only technically superior but also fulfilling from a nostalgic perspective.

In conclusion, "The Hallelujah Trail" is a film where jovial excess meets surprising depth, largely due to the dynamic interplay between its ensemble cast and the deft hand of director John Sturges. Kino Lorber’s release does great justice to this underappreciated gem, heightening the film’s visual appeal with its superior transfer quality and enriching the audience's understanding through thoughtful commentary. This Blu-ray is not only highly recommended but also stands as an essential upgrade for collectors and casual fans alike.