Slap the Monster on Page One Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Slap the Monster on Page One" by Radiance Films is presented with a meticulous AVC encoded 1080p transfer in 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The transfer is sourced from a 4K restoration of the original camera negative, expertly conducted by Cineteca di Bologna in collaboration with Surf Film and Kavac Film. Under the keen supervision of director Marco Bellocchio, this restoration brings out the film's intrinsic qualities, with its presentation accentuated by the original mono audio, delivering a visually cohesive experience.

This Blu-ray edition is a visual treat, showcasing a well-executed transfer that manages to maintain consistent image densities throughout. The grain field is resolved with precision, offering a natural and organic texture that complements rather than obscures fine details. There's some nuanced discussion around the color timing, which occasionally leans towards blue or brown, yet overall the color palette remains vibrant and authentic. The fine detailing is particularly notable in elements such as the textures of suit jackets and other costumes, reflecting exceptional transfer work. However, it should be noted that archival footage incorporated into the film displays expected degradation in quality, which contrasts against the otherwise pristine restoration.

The audio presentation of "Slap the Monster on Page One" on Blu Ray offers a meticulously preserved LPCM 2.0 Mono track, reflecting the authentic experience of the original Italian release. This sound format caters excellently to the dialogue-driven nature of the film, ensuring clarity and presence in all verbal exchanges. The mono track adeptly handles ambient sounds, such as the distinct clattering of vintage printing presses and the dynamic clamor of external protest scenes, which enhances the immersive experience for the listener.

Nicola Piovani's evocative score resonates with richness and depth, adding an auditory layer that accentuates the narrative's tone and atmosphere. The balance between dialogue and music is finely tuned, allowing each element to occupy its space without overpowering the other. To accommodate non-Italian speakers, the Blu Ray includes optional English subtitles, supporting an inclusive viewing experience without compromising the integrity of the sound presentation.

This technical execution exemplifies a thoughtful approach to audio preservation, providing an engaging yet authentic sonic rendition of the film's original soundscape.

The Blu Ray extras for "Slap the Monster on Page One" present a comprehensive and insightful look into the film's production and influence. The archival and newly filmed interviews are rich in detail, providing both historical context and modern perspectives. Marco Bellocchio's interview is pivotal in understanding the challenges faced during the film's onset, while Mario Sesti offers a critical analysis that enhances appreciation for the film's themes and execution. Alex Cox provides a succinct yet impactful commentary, focusing on key scenes that underline the film's narrative strengths. The inclusion of a well-crafted insert booklet contributes further depth, with an essay by Wesley Sharer and essential cast, crew, and transfer information, ensuring this Blu Ray edition is both informative and collectible.

Extras included in this disc:

• Marco Bellocchio: Archival interview on filming challenges.
• Mario Sesti: New interview providing a critical analysis.
• Alex Cox: Commentary focusing on two significant scenes.

"Slap the Monster on Page One" emerges as a prescient piece of cinema amidst the labyrinthine realms of media and political machinations, with director Marco Bellochio crafting a narrative that resonates strikingly with contemporary media dynamics. At its core, the film examines an overtly right-wing publisher, Bizanti, masterfully enacted by Gian Maria Volont�, who manipulates news to align with his ideological tilt, reminiscent of figures like Rupert Murdoch. This nuanced portrayal underscores a cautionary tale about biased reporting's long-reaching impacts, presenting a critical lens through which modern audiences can evaluate current media landscapes.

The film deftly captures the unrelenting dichotomy between liberal and conservative narratives, mirroring today's polarized media environment. With a storyline that involves orchestrating scapegoats for crimes to serve a political agenda, it offers chilling parallels to current discourse on misinformation. As it tackles challenging reportage issues, it conveys with discomforting accuracy how media can shape societal narratives and fears. The film’s alarming prescience might have contributed to its original underestimation in 1972 but is now fueling its reassessment as a work of notable foresight.

Despite being a commissioned work for Bellochio, "Slap the Monster on Page One" bears no hint of detachment in its execution. The supplementary material delivers engaging insights into the tumultuous period of Italy’s political climate and the production challenges encountered during the making of the film. As we navigate our fraught era of political and media turmoil, this film offers a stark reminder that biased media tactics are not new. Its resurfacing in contemporary discourse speaks to its underlying prophetic voice, thus reaffirming its place as both a historical artifact and a present-day reflection.

"Slap the Monster on Page One" Blu-ray offers a compelling glimpse into the socio-political landscape of 1972, resonating eerily with contemporary issues. The visual transfer is commendably executed, maintaining the film’s raw aesthetic while enhancing clarity and detail. The high-definition transfer exposes the gritty tones and atmospheric lighting with heightened contrast and vibrancy. The disc provides a true representation of the original film stock, making it a visually immersive experience without deviating from the director’s vision.

Audio presentation remains faithful with a robust DTS-HD Master Audio track, capturing the film’s intense dialogues and ambient soundscapes effectively. The balance between spoken words and soundtrack is meticulously preserved, ensuring an engaging auditory experience. While those accustomed to modern mixes may find the mono backdrop modest, it perfectly complements the film's authentic aesthetic.

With a suite of thoughtfully curated supplements, the Blu-ray enriches viewers' understanding of the film’s historical context and its enduring relevance. The included commentaries and interviews delve deeply into the film’s production nuances and cultural impact. These extras provide valuable insights, enhancing appreciation for both longtime fans and first-time viewers.

In conclusion, "Slap the Monster on Page One" is a rare cinematic work that intentionally provokes, challenging viewers across the political spectrum. Though unsettling in its dark themes and blunt narrative, it serves as an unsettling reflection on both past and present societal issues. With solid technical merits and appealing supplementary content, this Blu-ray edition makes for an essential addition to any cinephile’s collection, engaging and provoking thought long after viewing. Recommended.