Robinson Crusoe on Mars Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" boasts a 1080p/AVC-MPEG-4 encoded transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.37:1, created from a 4K scan of a 35mm interpositive. The meticulous restoration work—incorporating MTI's DRS, Pixel Farm's PFClean, and Digital Vision's DVNR systems—has culminated in clear improvements in fine object detail, contrast consistency, and image stability. Issues such as background shimmer and macroblocking found in previous editions have been effectively addressed, delivering a cleaner and more stable viewing experience.

The visual presentation showcases vibrant reds and bright yellows, especially in the ship and spacesuits, against the inky blackness of space, though occasional soft scenes and minor discolorations persist, reflecting inherited limitations of the source material. The Death Valley National Park's Martian landscapes reveal remarkable detail and texture, with grains of sand visibly embedded in characters' clothing. Scenes shot on sets benefit from sharpness and well-defined objects, exhibiting impressive depth.

Issue-wise, minor artifacts such as the occasional brightness flicker due to post-production color manipulation of the skyline and a brief hair artifact at the 25-minute mark are noticeable but do not detract significantly from the overall quality. The focus softness at the edges of long shots and less sharp blown-up 16mm stock footage are also present but expected, given the film’s age and production techniques. Overall, Criterion has accomplished a notable upgrade over previous releases, maintaining high professional standards in video restoration.

The audio presentation on the "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" Blu-ray is delivered through an English LPCM 1.0 track, which exhibits a surprisingly robust dynamic range for a mono format. Remarkably crafted from a 35mm magnetic full-coat three-track master, this soundtrack shows a meticulous restoration process. Clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum were manually removed using Pro Tools HD, and crackle was minimized through Audio Cube's integrated workstation. The resulting audio experience is notably clean and crisp, exceptionally improving dialogue comprehensibility, with no discernible balance issues regarding Van Cleave's music score.

Despite being a monaural track, the sound effects are surprisingly immersive. The movement of MGP-1 and the meteors across the audio channel during the opening credits is impressively nuanced. Additionally, the roar of MGP-1’s retro engines and the high-pitched whine of spaceship engines and energy blasts show commendable detail. Strong bass dynamics manifest particularly during spaceship attacks and explosions, enhancing the film’s impactful moments. Nevertheless, some instances, such as when Draper dictates his supplies' status or Mona's drinking effects, exhibit an occasional lack of dimensionality.

Overall, the LPCM 1.0 track provides a surprisingly rich auditory experience that effectively supports the film's narrative and action sequences. The exceptional clarity and stability of the dialogue ensure an engaging viewing experience without distraction from balance issues or unintended noise artifacts. Criterion’s careful remastering process is clearly evident in this high-quality audio presentation.

The Blu-ray extras for "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" offer an exemplary collection that provides in-depth insights into both the production of the film and its thematic relevance. The standout feature is the 1994 commentary track, recorded exclusively for Criterion, which includes screenwriter Ib Melchior, actors Paul Mantee and Victor Lundin, production designer Al Nozaki, and special effects designer Robert Skotak. This commentary is enriched with excerpts from a 1979 interview with director Byron Haskin. Additionally, the disc includes a short documentary by Michael Lennick, highlighting the scientific concepts tied to the film and our collective wonder about Mars. Other notable extras include Victor Lundin's music video, the original theatrical trailer, and a unique collection of sketches by Cleo Baldon. A 12-page illustrated booklet further enriches this comprehensive package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Features key figures from the film's production and excerpts from a 1979 interview with director Byron Haskin.
• Destination: Mars: A documentary exploring scientific themes in the film.
• Music Video: Victor Lundin’s song "Robinson Crusoe on Mars."
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer.
• Under the Surface: A gallery of sketches by Cleo Baldon.
• Booklet: Includes an essay by Michael Lennick, an original alien dialect dictionary by Ib Melchior, and Mars facts from the screenplay.

Byron Haskin's "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" is a standout within the landscape of mid-20th century science fiction. The film uniquely blends speculation about Mars' resources with a compelling survival story, highlighting Commander Christopher 'Kit' Draper's (Paul Mantee) struggle after an unexpected crash-landing on Mars. Accompanied by his pet monkey, Mona, Draper navigates the challenges of his new environment, discovering methods to generate oxygen and procure water, essential for his continued survival. These speculative ventures steeped in scientific curiosity mirror the era's nascent space exploration, resonating with NASA’s contemporary inquiries.

The film's narrative, though grounded in a lone survival trope akin to Daniel Defoe's original novel, ventures into a slightly different direction by focusing less on technological marvels and alien encounters. Instead, it emphasizes the human aspects of survival—ingenuity, resilience, and adaptation. Draper's discovery of an underground aquifer and edible plant, along with his interaction with Friday (Victor Lundin), a slave who escapes from alien overlords, underscores themes of cooperation and mutual dependency. These actions balance Draper's intense isolation with moments of profound human connection, capturing an essence reminiscent of early "Star Trek" episodes.

From a visual and production standpoint, Haskin’s work remains notable for its time. The film's special effects, though limited by mid-1960s technology, capably depict Mars as a harsh yet intriguing place. Surreal elements such as fireballs and atmospheric transitions are meticulously presented, even if now they seem quaint compared to modern standards. The spacecraft and alien technology evoke the aesthetic of Haskin's earlier projects like "The War of the Worlds" (1953), albeit in a more constrained manner. Despite minor shortcomings in pacing and sometimes rudimentary effects, "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" continues to captivate for its imaginative depiction of an alien world's life-sustaining possibilities.

Criterion’s Blu-Ray release of "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" by Byron Haskin is an exceptional presentation that both old fans and new viewers will appreciate. The film itself, a charming re-imagination of the literary classic, benefits greatly from its atmospheric retro aesthetic and moody score, creating a calming and engaging viewing experience. Criterion excels in leveraging high-definition technology to bring this retro gem to contemporary audiences with a visual and auditory quality that enhances the original film’s impact.

While "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" might not have achieved mainstream success, it has rightly garnered a cult following over the years. This Criterion edition provides an invaluable opportunity to rediscover a largely forgotten cinematic treasure. The disc includes a wealth of supplemental features that provide deeper insight into the film’s production and thematic undertones, thereby adding educational value and context for both longtime fans and new watchers interested in mid-20th-century science fiction.

In conclusion, Criterion’s meticulous restoration and supplemental package render "Robinson Crusoe on Mars" a highly recommended addition to any film collection. This Blu-Ray release not only revives an underrated classic but also showcases the potential impact it might have had on the genre’s evolution. Highly recommended for its historical significance and the pristine quality of Criterion’s treatment.