The Young Girls of Rochefort Blu-ray Review

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of Jacques Demy's "The Young Girls of Rochefort" is a visually stunning presentation that will undoubtedly please fans. Presented in an aspect ratio of 2.40:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the 1080p transfer shines with a vibrant and rich color palette. The restoration was completed in 2K from the original camera negative, supervised by Agnes Varda, although there is some conflicting information about the exact timeline of this restoration. The image is incredibly detailed, with excellent depth and clarity. Scenes, especially outdoor performances, look spectacular, revealing fine details such as tiny hairs on costumes and faces.

Technically, the transfer is superb. The colors are lush, robust, and well-balanced, making the pastels and bright primaries particularly stand out. Reds especially pop, while skin tones appear natural and organic. The black levels are deep and inky, contributing to a pleasing contrast throughout the film. Grain is evenly distributed, preserving the filmic quality of the picture without any problematic degraining corrections. Image stability is impressive with no large damage marks, cuts, debris, stains, or scratches evident. Sharpness is well-maintained without being overly edgy; even a very slight sharpening in an early sequence is hardly noticeable.

Overall, this Blu-ray presentation offers an exceptional viewing experience. Color vibrancy, detail, and stability combine to deliver a truly enhanced visual journey through Demy's classic musical. Criterion's meticulous restoration efforts ensure that the presentation remains faithful to the original Franscope aspect ratio of 2.35:1 while refining image quality to modern standards. The absence of age-related issues and easy-to-read subtitles further emphasize Criterion’s dedication to quality. This release is not only a technical marvel but also a nostalgic visual pleasure for cinephiles. Note: This Blu-ray is Region-A locked.

The Blu-ray release of "The Young Girls of Rochefort" offers a robust audio presentation via its single standard audio track: French DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Criterion has also included optional English subtitles that are conveniently positioned within the image frame. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is notably clean with no audible blemishes such as hiss, pops, cracks, or other distortions, ensuring a seamless auditory experience.

In comparative analysis to other editions, most notably Arte Video's DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, the Criterion release's DTS-HD 5.1 mix stands out equally for its clarity and depth. The dynamic intensity remains consistent across both versions, particularly during the large outdoor performances where crowd noise is effectively balanced. The dialogue is exceptionally clear and centrally located, while the music enjoys an excellent spread across the front soundstage without intruding on the dialogue or sound effects.

This DTS-HD 5.1 audio mix provides a well-balanced and immersive sound experience, especially during musical numbers where rear speakers engage impressively, allowing listeners to feel centered within the action without being overwhelmed. Though it could exploit surround channels more fully, it manages to envelop viewers adequately in key moments. The absence of age-related artifacts like hiss or crackle further elevates this audio presentation, making it a top-tier offering for enthusiasts of this classic musical film.

The Blu-ray release of "The Young Girls of Rochefort" is a robust collection offering a fascinating look into the making of Jacques Demy's classic film. The extras compiled here provide a comprehensive behind-the-scenes view that will captivate enthusiasts and scholars alike. The original archival materials, insightful interviews, and rare footage collectively enhance the viewer's appreciation of the film's unique blend of music, choreography, and design. Each segment is thoughtfully curated with optional English subtitles, ensuring accessibility for an international audience. Additionally, a noteworthy feature is Agnes Varda's documentary that revisits the film's impact 25 years later, featuring both cast and location insights.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original trailer for the 2K restoration.
• Cinema: Archival interview with Jacques Demy and Michel Legrand.
• Jean-Pierre Berthome and Jacqueline Moreau: Discussion on costume design and collaboration.
• Behind the Screen: Documentary episode featuring set designs and rehearsals.
• The Young Girls Turn 25: Agnes Varda’s documentary revisiting key locations and interviews.

Jacques Demy's "The Young Girls of Rochefort" (1967) arrives on Blu-ray, thanks to Criterion’s meticulous restoration. This release includes a host of fascinating supplemental features, like Agnes Varda's documentary "The Young Girls Turn 25," archival interviews with Jacques Demy and composer Michel Legrand, and more, succeeding in exploring the film's production and legacy. The movie itself is presented in French with optional English subtitles, maintaining its authentic charm and accessibility. Retaining the lively visuals and exuberance of the original, this edition ensures the film's enduring appeal.

Set in the picturesque town of Rochefort, where a bustling fair transforms lives, the musical centers on twin sisters Delphine (Catherine Deneuve) and Solange (Françoise Dorléac), who aspire to find true love and leave their hometown. Supported by a stellar cast including Gene Kelly, George Chakiris, and Danielle Darrieux, the movie weaves together various love stories. Demy's narrative complexity and sequence coordination create an engaging cinematic experience characterized by elaborate dance numbers and occasional spoken interludes. It's Demy's vision of providing homage to classic Hollywood musicals like "An American in Paris" and "West Side Story."

Michel Legrand’s versatile score imbues the film with a contagious energy, blending wistful and joyous melodies that complement the on-screen dynamics beautifully. Notably, only Danielle Darrieux performs her songs while other actors are dubbed, adding a layer of polish to the performances. The choreography by Norman Maen is seamlessly integrated into Demy's aesthetic, showcasing free-flowing, expansive dance sequences executed with precision. Although a subplot involving a mysterious slasher seems misplaced, it doesn't detract significantly from the film’s overall buoyancy. Ultimately, "The Young Girls of Rochefort" stands out for its vibrant visual palette, intricate compositions, and unflagging optimism, emphasizing Demy’s mastery in constructing feel-good cinema.

"The Young Girls of Rochefort," directed by Jacques Demy, receives a jubilant Blu-ray release from Criterion. Known for its vibrant visuals and enchanting score by Michel Legrand, this film is a musical tour de force, combining rich colors and elaborate set pieces that bring 1960s French cinema to life. Notably part of Criterion's The Essential Jacques Demy Blu-ray box set, this standalone release maintains the same high-quality content along with an insightful essay by critic Jonathan Rosenbaum.

The technical presentation is exemplary, with a high-definition transfer that does justice to the film's visual opulence and a sound mix that allows Legrand's jazz-infused tunes to shine. The attention to detail extends to the supplementary materials, which are well-curated and enhance the viewing experience. From archival interviews to behind-the-scenes footage, the extras offer a comprehensive look at the film’s production and legacy.

In conclusion, "The Young Girls of Rochefort" on Criterion Blu-ray is a visually captivating and musically delightful experience. Despite some quirks inherent to its genre, the film remains an endearing classic. This Blu-ray release is a must-have for cinephiles, providing both a pristine viewing experience and substantial bonus content. Highly recommended!