The Emperor Waltz Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "The Emperor Waltz" on Blu-ray, released by Kino Lorber, impressively captures the film in its original 1.37:1 theatrical aspect ratio and is encoded in 1080p using MPEG-4 AVC. Sourced from a beautifully preserved print, the transfer exudes a naturally filmic feel, providing viewers with an impressive showcase of the film’s cinematography. The detail and clarity are commendable, making it a delight for enthusiasts who appreciate visual fidelity. The color reproduction stands out remarkably due to the lush warm hues and inviting richness characteristic of Paramount Technicolor films. Though it's not a 4K remaster, the scan demonstrates a high-quality visual experience that remains true to the original cinematic nuances.

Despite minor imperfections in the form of occasional dust, dirt, and debris, alongside a slight tear noticed in one scene, the overall quality is largely unaffected. These artifacts are sparse and do not detract significantly from the viewing experience, maintaining an understated charm that stays loyal to the original material. Glamour close-ups exhibit a softer appearance as intended, while other scenes maintain sharpness, highlighting the meticulous care taken in this transfer. The film is divided into eight chapters, which aids navigation and enhances the viewing pleasure. Overall, the Blu-ray presentation of "The Emperor Waltz" assures a visually engaging and satisfying rendition of this classic film.

The Blu-ray release of "The Emperor Waltz" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono soundtrack that delivers an exceptional auditory experience. The lossless encoding ensures the audio performance is of high caliber, with dialogue and score clarity being particularly noteworthy. Despite the inherent limitations due to the age of the source material, the depth and detail achieved in this presentation are commendable. There's an unexpected level of punch, giving life and vibrancy to songs and dialogues alike, reflecting a sophisticated sound engineering effort.

This DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track stands out for its rich and distinct sound quality, providing a sure and true auditory experience for fans. Under the expert supervision of Victor Young, the mix balances dialogue, song lyrics, and music impressively. Noteworthy is the masterful handling of sound effects—specifically, the remarkable echoes during early songs where Bing harmonizes with himself. The soundtrack is free from audio imperfections like hiss, crackle, flutter, or pops, indicating meticulous restoration work aimed at maintaining the authenticity and purity of the original recordings while enhancing the listening experience for modern audiences.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Emperor Waltz" provide a comprehensive insight into the film's context and legacy. An engaging audio commentary by Joseph McBride, a distinguished film historian, offers an in-depth exploration of the film, presenting a persuasive argument for its reevaluation. Additionally, a brief but noteworthy interview with the Oscar-winning director Billy Wilder, conducted by Volker Schlöndorff, provides valuable perspectives from Wilder himself. These elements are complemented by a collection of classic trailers, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the cinema landscape of that era.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Joseph McBride: Insightful analysis and appreciation of the film.
• Billy Wilder and Volker Schlöndorff Interview: Brief discussion with the director about the film.
• Trailers: A range of classic trailers including "Road to Morocco," "Kiss the Blood Off My Hands," "The Lost Weekend," and others.

"The Emperor Waltz" emerges as a quintessential example of Hollywood's classic musical-comedy, directed by the illustrious Billy Wilder. The film showcases an ambitious narrative layered with underlying social commentary wrapped in a frothy operetta facade. The movie stars Bing Crosby, Joan Fontaine, and Richard Haydn, each delivering notable performances that anchor this stylized story. Crosby shines as Virgil Smith, an exuberant American gramophone salesman, whose journey to make a monumental sale to the Emperor Franz-Josef leads to romantic entanglements and cultural collisions. While Fontaine's portrayal of the elegant Countess Johanna captivates, critics have noted a lack of chemistry between her and Crosby, despite both actors individually showcasing their formidable talents. Richard Haydn's portrayal of the Emperor is especially praiseworthy, blending subtle comic timing with gravitas.

Technically, "The Emperor Waltz" is a feast for the senses, underscored by George Barnes's breathtaking cinematography, which captures the kaleidoscope of the Tyrolean Alps with enchanting detail. This is complemented by the Oscar-nominated costumes from Edith Head and Gile Steele, which add an exquisite layer of visual opulence. Franz Bachelin and Hans Dreier’s art direction further elevates the film, offering a richly detailed backdrop that enhances the narrative’s grandeur. Victor Young’s score is another standout element, offering an evocative musical foundation that underscores the film’s emotional tones and drama dimension, seamlessly intertwined with strains of Strauss’s lilting waltzes.

Despite its stylistic and production triumphs, Wilder’s meticulous direction infuses the narrative with nuanced critique of class superiority cloaked as a light-hearted comedy. The screenplay, co-written with Charles Brackett, deftly interlaces humor and thematic gravitas against a post-WWII backdrop, seeking subtly to address societal inequities. While some elements of the script are viewed as predictable or overly simplified, particularly in its resolution of class conflicts, "The Emperor Waltz" nevertheless succeeds in offering an endearing cinematic performance that deservedly finds acclaim amidst audiences appreciating its layered artistry and historical acumen.

Billy Wilder's "The Emperor Waltz" is a fascinating blend of musical charm and insightful social commentary, effectively brought to life by the remarkable performances of Bing Crosby and Joan Fontaine. This film is a testament to Wilder's iconic legacy in classic Hollywood, showcasing his unmatched ability to intertwine humor with astute observations on societal nuances. The production design is visually striking, adding depth to the film's narrative and elevating its comedic undertones.

The Blu-ray release of "The Emperor Waltz" delivers an excellent presentation, marked by superior video clarity and robust audio performance that capture the film's original essence. Kino Lorber has ensured that this release is not just visually appealing but also enriching in content, featuring a selection of bonus materials which include an exclusive audio commentary. These features provide fans and collectors with deeper insights into the filmmaking process and Wilder’s vision.

In conclusion, "The Emperor Waltz" is a captivating musical that resonates with both charm and intellect. This Blu-ray release stands out as an essential addition for admirers of Billy Wilder and classic cinema enthusiasts alike. Meticulously curated, it surpasses expectations with its thoughtful restoration and supplementary content. Highly recommended for those seeking to experience the film in its finest quality.