National Velvet Blu-ray Review

Warner Archive's recent Blu-ray release of "National Velvet" presents an exceptional 1080p transfer, sourced from a state-of-the-art 4K scan of the film's original Technicolor camera negatives. This restoration maintains the boutique label's esteemed track record, with colors ranging from muted earth tones to vibrant hues throughout, rendering each scene with stunning clarity. The restored footage captures the picturesque small-town streets, dark stables, and the sunlit exteriors of the gripping Grand National steeplechase event with profound precision, preserving the detailed Oscar-nominated cinematography of Leonard Smith.

The transfer delivers a delicately balanced picture, spotlighting fine details such as costume textures and impeccably defined facial features. Noteworthy are the rich Technicolor elements — the lush green landscapes, deep blue oceans, and Elizabeth Taylor's vividly hot pink and yellow accented jockey outfit. Contrast levels are robust, with inky blacks offering depth without overshadowing scene details, and whites remaining crisp without blooming. Although some grain fluctuation and minor softness in certain scenes are apparent — aspects often inherent in high-definition presentations that can expose technical elements like painted backdrops — these slight imperfections do little to detract from an overall vibrant visual experience.

In conclusion, Warner Archive successfully revives "National Velvet" for modern audiences, furnishing a crisp and film-like high-definition viewing that will undoubtedly impress fans of this enduring family classic. The array of well-preserved colors and fine details highlights the meticulous restoration process, making this presentation arguably the best "National Velvet" has ever looked on home video.

The audio presentation of "National Velvet" on Blu-ray utilizes a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track that excellently restores its original mono roots. Dialogue throughout is impressively crisp and clear, a fundamental achievement in maintaining the film's narrative clarity. Herbert Stothart's renowned musical compositions, known for their evocative prowess, are delivered with precision, though they exhibit slight strain at higher registers. The soundtrack benefits from a well-balanced integration of music and speech, with minimal auditory impairments—namely, very few instances of hiss and no noticeable pops or sync issues.

While some may find it necessary to adjust their listening volume for optimal clarity, the audio mix provides an extensive dynamic range that captures the film’s musical highs and lows without distortion. The bass frequencies are notably robust, particularly enhancing the tension and immersion during the climactic racing scenes. This contrasts with the otherwise straightforward dialogue-focused sections, which consistently maintain their clarity without interference from the background score or ambient noise. Overall, this audio restoration successfully preserves the film's auditory integrity and offers an engaging listening experience worthy of its classic status. Optional English (SDH) subtitles are available for the main feature, contributing an additional layer of accessibility to this restored classic presentation.

The Blu-ray release of "National Velvet" offers a modest selection of extras carried over from earlier DVD editions, but each adds a distinct value for enthusiasts of classic cinema. The extras, though limited, provide a nostalgic glimpse into the film's original promotional strategies, presented with restored clarity. The provided materials maintain the spirit and heritage of the film, encapsulating its essence in a way that echoes the classic allure of this beloved story. The theatrical trailer, in particular, stands out as an excellent piece of preserved history, engaging audiences with its vibrant representation of that era's cinematic promotion techniques.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: A high-definition presentation of the original promotional piece that captures the film's classic appeal.

"National Velvet," adapted from Enid Bagnold's 1935 novel and directed by Clarence Brown, is an endearing film that has stood the test of time, primarily due to Elizabeth Taylor's captivating performance in her first starring role at the age of 12. Taylor, with her genuine equestrian skills, injects vitality into the character of Velvet Brown, a passionate girl with dreams of horse racing glory. Supported by a spirited cast including Mickey Rooney as the curiously restrained Mi Taylor, the film creates an engaging narrative. The plot, revolving around Velvet securing and training a spirited gelding named The Pie for the Grand National steeplechase, masterfully intertwines familial warmth and the universal theme of following one's dreams.

Brown's direction ensures that "National Velvet" is more than a mere sports drama. The film's charm lies in its tender depiction of family dynamics set against a picturesque English village. This setting enriches the maturation arc of Velvet, who bravely defies gender norms to achieve her aspirations. The ensemble cast delivers a delightful range of performances with Anne Revere's Oscar-winning role as Velvet's supportive mother and Angela Lansbury's noteworthy portrayal of Velvet's sister, amidst a vibrant backdrop of Technicolor brilliance. The climactic race sequences are thrillingly executed, offering a perfect balance between character-driven storytelling and exhilarating action.

The Blu-ray release by Warner Archive offers the film a remarkable restoration, sourcing a 4K scan from the original Technicolor negatives. With its pristine 1080p video transfer and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono mix, the disc preserves the film’s aesthetic appeal and auditory richness. While lacking extensive bonus features, this release ensures "National Velvet" remains a viable option for both nostalgic viewers and newcomers who appreciate classic cinema reimagined for modern consumption. The film endearingly captures a bygone era's charm while echoing timeless themes of determination and spirit.

Clarence Brown's "National Velvet" remains a quintessential entry in family-oriented sports dramas, retaining its charm through decades. The narrative, while straightforward, delivers solid entertainment with its compelling themes of ambition and determination. Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of the horse-crazy young girl leaves a lasting impression, capturing the innocence and tenacity that define this classic. Though the story may resonate as slightly dated to modern audiences, its emotional core remains intact and impactful.

Warner Archive's Blu-ray release enhances this experience with an exemplary 1080p transfer derived from a meticulous 4K scan of the original Technicolor camera negatives. The visual fidelity breathes new life into the film, enriching the vibrant palette synonymous with Technicolor. Complementing this visual upgrade, the disc features restored lossless audio, ensuring an immersive auditory experience. Despite the lack of supplementary materials, the precision and care evident in this restoration render the package particularly appealing at its current price.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray edition of "National Velvet" offers a superior viewing opportunity that preserves and revitalizes a beloved classic for contemporary audiences. Both fans returning for nostalgia and newcomers exploring for the first time will find this presentation satisfying. Its seamless blend of technical excellence and unwavering charm make it a highly recommended acquisition for any film aficionado.