The Makioka Sisters Blu-ray Review

Criterion's release of "The Makioka Sisters" on Blu-ray features a 1.88:1 aspect ratio and a 1080p transfer encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. This high-definition digital transfer was performed using C-Reality Datacine with Oliver wetgate processing from a 35mm low-contrast print. Extensive restoration efforts involved manually removing thousands of instances of dirt, debris, and other imperfections using MTI's DRS and Pixel Farm's PFClean systems, while Digital Vision's DVNR system addressed small dirt, grain, and noise reduction. Telecine supervision was handled by Maria Palazzola, with color grading by Lou Levinson at Prime Focus, Los Angeles.

Video quality is excellent with consistently strong detail, even in dimly lit scenes, and surprisingly good contrast levels. The color palette remains balanced and natural, although some outdoor scenes might have appeared more vibrant in their original theatrical presentations. Edge-enhancement is minimal and not concerning, ensuring the film retains its natural thickness typical of well-executed transfers without excessive noise filtering. There are no significant issues related to artifacting, halo effects, or banding.

The Criterion restoration approach has maintained perfectly intact grain levels contributing to the film’s organic qualities. Colors are clear and natural, enhancing the subdued visual style when necessary. Fine details, such as clothing patterns, are rendered crisply without aliasing or pulsing. While there are minor inconsistencies in skin tone colors visible early in the film—with occasional blue noise and sharp pink hues—these normalize as the film progresses, leading to an overall pleasing and clean visual experience. Despite these minor issues, "The Makioka Sisters" on Blu-ray exemplifies Criterion's meticulous restoration work and offers a visually engaging presentation.

The sole audio track on the Blu-ray release of "The Makioka Sisters" is a Japanese LPCM 1.0 monaural soundtrack, masterfully remastered at 24-bit from the optical track print. Pro Tools HD was employed to manually eliminate clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum, while AudioCube's integrated workstation attenuated crackle. Criterion has thoughtfully included optional English subtitles for the main feature, further enhancing accessibility.

The overall impression of the remastered audio is one of well-maintained clarity and balance. The dynamic range of the monaural track, though limited, imparts a certain depth and fluidity that enriches the viewing experience. Despite the commendable technical restoration work, some listeners might find the score's tinny quality and occasional harsh blares somewhat distracting. Although ambient effects are minimal, they sporadically add richness to scenes. However, dialogue clarity is undeniably excellent and remains discernible over other audio elements, ensuring that the film’s narrative is conveyed comprehensively.

While some reviews appreciated the fidelity and balance achieved, others felt the monaural track fell short of expectations with moments of light static and an unappealing musical score. The track maintains a general softness that, combined with sporadic harsh blares, can become frustrating to attentive listeners. Notwithstanding these criticisms, it's evident that the audio remastering offers a predominantly clean and functional auditory experience for this dialogue-centric film.

The Blu-ray release of "The Makioka Sisters" excels in providing a compelling array of extras that complement the film. Despite a limited selection, each supplement is meticulously crafted to enrich the viewer's understanding and appreciation of this cinematic gem. The high-definition theatrical trailer offers a nostalgic glimpse into the film's original presentation, perfectly preserved with optional English subtitles for accessibility. Additionally, the inclusion of an 18-page illustrated booklet elevates the release, featuring an insightful essay by Audie Bock, a distinguished scholar of Japanese cinema. While the disc may appear minimalistic at first glance, the quality and relevance of these extras significantly enhance the overall package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: The original theatrical trailer for The Makioka Sisters. In Japanese, with optional English subtitles.
• Booklet: An 18-page illustrated booklet containing Audie Bock's essay "Of Love and Money".

Kon Ichikawa's adaptation of Junichiro Tanizaki's novel, The Makioka Sisters, presented on Blu-ray by Criterion, is a testament to the intricate interplay of tradition and modernization in pre-war Japan. Set in Kyoto in 1938, the film delicately portrays the lives of the four Makioka sisters, each navigating different aspects of societal expectations as Japan moves towards Westernization. The eldest sisters, Tsuruko and Sachiko, are entrenched in their roles upholding family traditions, ensuring that Yukiko, the third sister who remains unmarried, finds a suitable husband before the youngest, Taeko, may marry. Taeko's progressive disposition and entrepreneurial pursuits only add to the familial tension.

Despite its lack of conventional plot progression, the film shines through its brilliant depiction of individual character arcs amidst a shifting cultural landscape. The understated conflicts—Yukiko's reluctance towards arranged marriages and Taeko's defiance against traditional norms—capture the essence of Japan’s evolution in a subtle, nuanced manner. Ichikawa masterfully uses the changing seasons as an allegory for the inevitable transformation facing the Makioka family. Notably, the performances are so immersive that the line between actor and character blurs, drawing viewers into a seemingly real historical narrative.

While the pacing of The Makioka Sisters is deliberate and methodical at 140 minutes, it rewards those with patience through its meticulous exploration of family dynamics and societal pressures. The Criterion release benefits from high-definition clarity that enhances the film’s scenic beauty and period-accurate details. Accompanied by an 18-page booklet with an essay by film scholar Audie Bock, Criterion’s package ensures that this milestone in Japanese cinema is preserved with reverence and depth, making it ideal for connoisseurs of film history and cultural studies alike.

Kon Ichikawa's "The Makioka Sisters" is an exquisitely crafted film that delves deep into the lives of a wealthy Japanese family during a period of significant socio-political change. The Blu-ray release by Criterion showcases the film's visual splendor with solid video quality, preserving the director's meticulous cinematography and the atmospheric ambiance of pre-war Japan. Richly lensed sequences and nuanced performances by the cast contribute to a deeply moving portrayal that captures the essence of its era.

However, despite the visual prowess, the audio quality of the release falls short of expectations. The almost shameful audio track can detract from the immersive experience, particularly for those who emphasize sound in their viewing setup. Additionally, the absence of substantial supplemental features is a notable downside for those used to Criterion's typically comprehensive packages. Although the package may lack the usual extras, its price point offers value, particularly during retailer promotions.

In conclusion, "The Makioka Sisters" is a poignant and beautifully rendered period piece by one of Japan’s master filmmakers. While the Blu-ray’s audio and lack of extras might not meet Criterion’s usual high standards, the film itself remains an essential watch for those interested in Japanese cinema and history. This release stands out for its evocative storytelling and visual artistry, making it a worthy addition to any collection. Highly recommended.