99 River Street Blu-ray Review

Released by Kino Lorber, "99 River Street" on Blu-ray showcases Phil Karlson's film noir in 1080p resolution, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, and presented in the cinematic 1.37:1 aspect ratio. Originating from a 35 mm black-and-white negative shot with spherical lenses by Franz Planer, the Blu-ray retains an atmospheric noir aesthetic with a photochemical finish. While the transfer presents a mostly pleasing grayscale and stable image quality, it's acknowledged as slightly soft compared to other period film Blu-rays. This special edition doubles the disc layer count compared to its predecessor, potentially enhancing the presentation.

Although there’s some minor increase in the exposure of film grain compared to the earlier release, notable improvements across the board would necessitate sourcing from healthier elements for a proper 4K remaster. Details such as costume patterns and beading of sweat come through clearly, though sweeping panoramic sequences remain soft. Select scenes exhibit visual issues; notably, a composite shot towards the film’s end features flickering, and certain close-ups focus more successfully than others due to deliberate tight framing. Backlot street scenes alongside rear projections might break immersion for contemporary audiences but are valuable for maintaining period authenticity.

In terms of upgrading from the first release, it's a marginal benefit unless opting for 4K upscaling, where this version shows slight improvements. However, such gains might not be universally replicated across different 4K Blu-ray players. For collectors or enthusiasts without the initial version, this represents a solid entry point; however, existing owners may find minimal incentive for repurchase. Please be mindful that this is a Region-A locked release, necessitating compatible playback equipment.

The Blu-ray release of "99 River Street" features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, complemented by English SDH subtitles. This audio track delivers a commendable level of clarity, ensuring dialog remains distinct and easily comprehensible throughout the film. It is noteworthy that the inclusion of English SDH subtitles marks a significant improvement from previous editions, enhancing accessibility for a broader audience. While the audio quality is robust, slight unevenness in dialogue can be detected sporadically, which may affect immersion in certain scenes.

The film's sound effects are effectively rendered within the 2.0 audio framework. The soundtrack captures the nuance of car engines, the tension of fighters in the ring, and Ernie's notorious sucker punches in the theater with remarkable precision. Additionally, gunshots and police sirens are integrated to complement the ambient soundscapes of gym environments and bustling streets. Despite the overall effective sound design, there is a faint presence of background hiss in quieter moments which could become noticeable to discerning listeners.

Overall, this release offers a faithful audio presentation of "99 River Street," maintaining the integrity of its original sound elements while updating accessibility features. The DTS-HD Master Audio track, while occasionally uneven, ensures a vivid auditory experience that preserves the film’s dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

The Blu-ray extras for "99 River Street" offer a compelling dive into the film's production and context. A highlight is an insightful audio commentary by Eddie Muller, an esteemed film noir specialist, noted for his keen deconstruction of the film. Muller's commentary enriches the viewing experience by shedding light on the film’s stylistic misconceptions, detailed character analysis, and intriguing career anecdotes about the film's director, Phil Karlson, and its stars, with whom Muller shares personal connections. He critiques aspects like fight choreography while imparting fascinating background like Evelyn Keyes' pivotal casting choice and her subsequent personal ventures. His exposition extends to the distinctive narrative elements like boxing legality explored in the storyline. This comprehensive exploration by Muller is invaluable to enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into the unique allure of 99 River Street.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: A vintage trailer for 99 River Street.
• Commentary: Eddie Muller provides an extensive deconstruction of the film.
• Additional trailers: Trailers for titles from Kino Lorber's catalog including Hidden Fear, Shield for Murder, He Ran All the Way.

Phil Karlson's 1953 film, "99 River Street," now available on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber, epitomizes the noir genre's brutal yet captivating storytelling. The narrative follows Ernie Driscoll (John Payne), a former boxer turned cab driver, as he navigates a treacherous landscape after his wife's body is discovered in his cab. From failed pugilist to murder suspect, Ernie embodies the classic noir archetype, brilliantly portrayed amidst a gritty backdrop crafted by Oscar-nominated cinematographer Franz Planer. His visual composition juxtaposes toughness with an almost casual elegance, creating a powerful yet understated atmosphere.

The film's storyline, adapted from an original story by George Zuckerman and screenplay by Robert Smith, offers more than a mere plot; it presents a character-driven narrative elevated by intense performances. The interactions between John Payne and featured supporting actors, such as Evelyn Keyes and Frank Faylen, inject the film with a palpable energy. Their effortless portrayals highlight the unpredictability inherent in their characters’ chaotic world. This unpredictability is where "99 River Street" thrives, generating tension that leaves audiences perpetually on edge, anticipating plot twists lying around every corner Ernie turns.

The orchestral score, orchestrated by Emil Newman and Arthur Lange, perfectly complements the film’s dramatic tone. Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release boasts a meticulous remaster from MGM, preserving the pristine quality of this cinematic experience while retaining its rugged charm. The film’s thematic exploration and aesthetic execution make it as relevant today as it was at its inception, serving as a prime example of how vivid character dynamics and evocative cinematography can infuse a story with timeless appeal. This release also includes insightful commentary by film noir expert Eddie Muller, offering valuable context to this genre-defining masterpiece.

"99 River Street" on Blu-ray is an exemplary film noir that stands as a testament to director Phil Karlson's mastery in creating a visceral cinematic experience. Set over the course of a single, tension-filled night, the film expertly weaves a gritty narrative packed with relentless suspense and emotional depth. The film features a top-notch cast delivering performances that embody the raw and rugged spirit intrinsic to film noirs of this caliber. The narrative orbits a protagonist whose simmering internal rage and a tormented self-image form a dangerous and captivating blend. This dynamic is further amplified by Robert Smith's clever scripting and dialogue, all of which contribute to the film's enduring appeal.

Technically, the recent Blu-ray Special Edition release presents this classic film with subtle yet noteworthy improvements, derived from a newly encoded remaster of the original material. While these enhancements may be minimal to most viewers, they contribute to an overall enhanced audiovisual experience for those with keen attention to detail. It should be noted that this edition provides optional subtitles, an advantage over previous releases for accessibility, making it an essential option for some collectors while generally not a mandatory upgrade for others.

Ultimately, "99 River Street" remains a quintessential piece of cinema that exemplifies the taut and brutal energy of film noir at its utmost. Even without its intriguing script turns, the film achieves greatness due to Karlson’s direction and the formidable cast. As articulated in Eddie Muller's insightful commentary, historical reviews misunderstood the film's authenticity; its power lies in its unapologetic portrayal of raw emotion and swift brutality. An essential addition to any classic film collection, this release is recommended for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.