Mildred Pierce Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of Michael Curtiz's "Mildred Pierce" is a remarkably restored and digitized version presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1, with a 1080p transfer encoded in MPEG-4 AVC. This new digital transfer, created in 4K resolution on a Lasergraphics Director film scanner, primarily uses the 35mm original nitrate camera negative. Additional sequences were sourced from 35mm nitrate fine-grain masters and a 35mm safety fine-grain master. The thorough restoration undertaken by Criterion and MTI Film's DRS has resulted in the removal of thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and other visual defects, achieving a stable, clean image devoid of significant age-related imperfections.

The image quality is film-like, featuring excellent clarity and texture that honor Ernest Haller's Oscar-nominated cinematography. The balanced color grading offers rich blacks, convincing grays, and minimal harshness in the whites. Although minor density fluctuations and occasional softness are noted, these are likely inherent limitations of the source material rather than flaws in the restoration process. Depth is impressive for a film of this age, effectively utilizing character placement to create dimensionality.

Shadow delineation is strong, with minimal crush present and no distracting noise or artifacts. The meticulous cleaning ensures an absence of shimmering patterns, debris, and other unwanted screenings interruptions. Despite minor print issues such as fluctuating grain levels and brightness in certain scenes, the presentation overall significantly outshines previous DVD editions and captures the film's vintage aesthetic gracefully. This Blu-ray release stands as a resounding success and is a definitive upgrade for fans of this classic psychological drama.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Mildred Pierce" leaves little to be desired, considering its English LPCM 1.0 format. This monaural soundtrack has been meticulously remastered from a 35 mm soundtrack print created in 2002, based on the variable-area original soundtrack negative. This effort produces vibrant, nuanced sound with exceptional clarity and depth. While the dynamic range reflects the modest capabilities of early post-war sound design, the fidelity and balance are particularly impressive, showcasing Max Steiner's melodramatic score without any mastering anomalies or balance issues.

Ambient effects like restaurant bustle, rain, and the gentle waves of Malibu beach are rendered with authentic tonal depth, adding essential atmosphere to the film's setting. Distinguishing sonic details such as gunfire, footsteps on pavement, slaps, ticking clocks, and even rustling newspaper pages are crisp and immersive. Remarkably, the track is free from age-related imperfections like hiss, pops, and crackles, maintaining a distortion-free experience throughout. Character dialogue is consistently clear and comprehensible, ensuring that every piece of delicious dialogue is well-represented.

Given the era of the film's production, one might expect limitations in the low-frequency extension and surround sound capabilities. However, this Blu-ray presentation makes the most of its front and center channels to deliver a balanced and engaging audio experience. Overall, this high-quality remastering honors the audio's historical significance while satisfying modern standards, making it a noteworthy accomplishment for fans and audiophiles alike.

Criterion's Blu Ray release of "Mildred Pierce" is a treasure trove of supplemental materials that enriches the cinematic experience with deep dives into the film’s historical and artistic context. This comprehensive release combines a multitude of archival footage, insightful discussions, and illuminating interviews, although it would benefit from more content focused on the film's production. The standout feature is the extensive documentary on Joan Crawford, offering a nuanced portrait of her career and personal tribulations. Complementary extras delve into perspectives on the original novel, critiques of the adaptation, and valuable historical interviews with Crawford and relevant figures.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for "Mildred Pierce".
• Molly Haskell and Robert Polito: Discussion on the novel, film noir elements, Joan Crawford's versatility, and more.
• Joan Crawford: The Ultimate Movie Star: Archival documentary on Joan Crawford's life and career.
• David Frost and Joan Crawford: Archival interview from "The David Frost Show".
• Ann Blyth: Q&A session with Ann Blyth moderated by Eddie Muller.
• James M. Cain: Archival interview discussing violence in literature and TV.
• Leaflet: Illustrated leaflet with an essay by critic Imogen Sara Smith.

Michael Curtiz's "Mildred Pierce" (1945) masterfully combines the intrigue of film noir with the emotional weight of melodrama. This Criterion Blu-ray release of the classic boasts a superb resolution to a story told through a complexly structured series of flashbacks. At the heart of the plot is the murder of Monte Beragon (Zachary Scott), which sets off a chain of events implicating and interrogating various characters, especially Mildred (Joan Crawford). Her journey from an unsatisfied housewife to a successful businesswoman underlines a theme of unyielding maternal devotion that culminates in a fraught relationship with her daughter, Veda (Ann Blyth).

The film’s strengths lie in its rich characterizations and layered narrative, which invite viewers to piece together multifaceted relationships and motives. Crawford shines in her Academy Award-winning role, yet Ann Blyth’s portrayal of Veda provides a chilling counterpoint that gives the film its edge. Director Curtiz’s stylistic choices and Ernest Haller’s cinematography encapsulate the timeless allure of early Hollywood, enriched by Max Steiner’s evocative score, ensuring the film's place as not just a film noir but also a critical social commentary on American values and class systems.

Supporting performances from Bruce Bennett as ex-husband Bert and Jack Carson as the ambitious Wally Fay complement the narrative’s depth. The screenplay by Ranald MacDougall adds a sharpness to the dialogues that enhances each character's presence. Though it diverges from James M. Cain’s original novel, this adaptation is both a gripping drama and a nuanced critique, reflecting themes of greed, entitlement, and maternal sacrifice. With its compelling blend of mystery and emotional complexity, "Mildred Pierce" not only revived Crawford’s career but has also remained a touchstone in cinema for its sophisticated storytelling and powerful performances.

Criterion's new Blu-ray release of "Mildred Pierce" stands as a sterling exemplification of post-war American cinema, enriched by its recent 4K restoration. Part woman’s picture, part film noir, and part Freudian exploration, the film adeptly navigates through the turbulent relationship between an indulgent, self-sacrificing mother and her venomous daughter. Joan Crawford delivers an Oscar-winning performance as the titular character, but it is Ann Blyth's portrayal of the malevolent Veda which leaves an indelible mark. Michael Curtiz directs with stylistic assurance, effectively blending mystery, romance, and tension-laden drama in a captivating manner. The Criterion Collection’s careful attention to video and audio transfers offers a premium viewing experience, ensuring a significant upgrade over previous home releases.

The presentation on this Blu-ray is remarkable. Criterion's meticulous restoration delivers a pristine image quality, presenting the film in a way that complements its atmospheric noir elements and nuanced performances. The black-and-white cinematography exhibits deeper contrasts and richer textures, while the audio transfer preserves the era-specific sound design in all its glory. Enthusiasts will find the array of supplemental materials particularly rewarding; from insightful commentaries to behind-the-scenes features, these extras provide a comprehensive exploration into the making of this classic.

This recent trend of having major post-war American films from Warner's vaults restored and released via the Criterion Collection is very encouraging. There are literally hundreds of very important films that can be saved from oblivion and rediscovered by a new generation of film lovers. Michael Curtiz's Oscar winner "Mildred Pierce" does not need my recommendation so I am just going to say that the new 4K restoration is excellent and the Blu-ray represents a major upgrade in quality over previous home video releases. Very highly recommended.