Charade Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray transfer of Stanley Donen’s “Charade,” presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, offers an impressive 1080p resolution. This release by Park Circus is comparable to the highly praised Criterion edition for the U.S. market. Detail and clarity are strong throughout, decisively addressing the blockiness found in previous DVD releases. The color palette is exceptionally well-rendered, presenting a fresh and natural variety of reds, blues, greens, browns, and blacks. The colors remain warm without being overly saturated, contributing to a pleasing visual experience.

Furthermore, the integrity of the film’s grain structure has been preserved, with minimal post-production sharpening. While some slight dirt and noise corrections have been made, they do not detract from the authenticity of the grainy texture that classic film enthusiasts appreciate. The edges exhibit mild flickering, a limitation carried over from the Criterion release. However, this does not significantly impact the overall viewing stability. Overall, this Region-B locked Blu-ray excels in providing a visually satisfying presentation of "Charade."

The audio presentation on this Blu-ray release of "Charade" features an English LPCM 2.0 track. Extensive tests comparing it with the Criterion Blu-ray's English LPCM 1.0 track reveal minimal auditory difference. Both tracks deliver crisp, clean, and stable dialogue, and Henry Mancini's musical score retains its dynamic characteristics across both versions. However, it is noteworthy that Park Circus did not include optional English SDH subtitles for the main feature, a considerable omission as subtitles should be a standard offering on Blu-ray releases.

The overall audio quality maintains high fidelity, delivering a robust listening experience for viewers. The LPCM 2.0 track effectively channels the film's dialogue and soundtrack with clarity and precision. Despite this, the absence of English SDH subtitles is regrettable, a feature that aids a more inclusive viewing experience for the hearing impaired or non-native English speakers. This omission slightly detracts from the otherwise strong audio performance of this Blu-ray presentation.

The extras included in the Blu-ray release of "Charade" significantly enhance the viewing experience, providing a comprehensive look behind the scenes of this classic film. The Trailer offers a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s original promotion in pristine quality. Additionally, the Photo Gallery presents a curated collection of stills, poster art, and production images, immersing viewers in the visual history and craftsmanship of the movie. Collectively, these extras add substantial value to the Blu-ray package, ensuring that both new viewers and long-time fans can appreciate the depth and context of this timeless masterpiece.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer for "Charade," in English.
• Photo Gallery: Stills from the film, poster art, and additional production stills in high definition.

Stanley Donen's 1963 film "Charade" lands on Blu-ray from Park Circus, presenting a beautifully restored visual journey. The setup includes the original theatrical trailer and a stills gallery, although English subtitles are notably absent. This Region-B locked disc encapsulates the movie's inherent charm through high-definition clarity, combining the glamour of old Hollywood with the intensity of 60s spy thrillers. Featuring luminaries Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant, "Charade" bridges escapism and suspense seamlessly.

The plot revolves around Reggie Lampert (Hepburn), who returns to Paris to find her husband murdered and their assets liquidated. She encounter Peter Joshua (Grant) again, triggering a complex web of deceit involving CIA operative Hamilton Bartholomew (Walter Matthau) and Charles' dubious acquaintances (James Coburn, George Kennedy, Ned Glass). The narrative intricacies transform the film into a dynamic guessing game where trust is constantly questioned, adding layers to its already rich suspense.

What truly elevates "Charade" is the magnetic chemistry between Hepburn and Grant, whose flirtations inject a vibrant, playful energy into the film. Their compelling interactions underscore the narrative's tension and allure. Furthermore, the supporting cast delivers formidable performances that enhance the film's depth and intrigue. Director Donen's partnership with esteemed cinematographer Charles Lang lends "Charade" an enduring visual appeal, characterized by its polished aesthetics and nuanced storytelling. This film is an exemplary blend of star power, narrative complexity, and visual splendor, making it a timeless cinematic experience.

The Blu-ray release of Stanley Donen's "Charade" by British distributors Park Circus is a commendable alternative for fans of the film who do not have access to Criterion's Region-A locked Blu-ray. The picture quality is impressive, offering a significant upgrade from previous DVD versions. The colors are vibrant and accurately reflect the film's original cinematography, while the resolution brings out details that were previously unnoticed. Audio quality is also notable, with clear and well-balanced sound that enhances the viewing experience.

However, a noticeable drawback is the lack of optional English subtitles. This oversight is surprising given that subtitles have become a standard feature in most Blu-ray releases. It limits accessibility for viewers who depend on subtitles for better comprehension or those who prefer watching films with them for clarity. Despite this shortcoming, the Blu-ray package includes a few interesting extra features that provide additional value, such as behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.

In conclusion, Park Circus' Blu-ray release of "Charade" is a worthwhile investment for fans looking to upgrade from their DVD copies. The improvements in video and audio quality make it a compelling choice despite the absence of optional English subtitles. For those passionate about the film and the performances of Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant, this release is highly recommended.