Pandora's Box Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Pandora's Box" by Criterion is a notable enhancement, brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. Restored to a 1080p transfer and maintaining the original 1.33:1 aspect ratio, the film benefits from a comprehensive 2K restoration sourced from elements housed at prominent European archives. This restoration project, funded by Hugh M. Hefner, was executed in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as the George Eastman Museum and others. Under the supervision of Martin Koerber and restored by Haghefilm Conservation BV, Amsterdam, this version stands as a testament to the dedication towards preserving cinematic history.

A comparative analysis with Criterion’s 2006 DVD release reveals substantial improvements in visual fidelity. Image stability has notably advanced, eliminating the previous issues of constant jumps and shifts. Clarity and depth have been significantly heightened, offering a viewing experience that is aesthetically more film-like than its predecessor’s video-like quality. Although minor fluctuations and imperfections persist due to the mixed origins of source materials, the improved detailing across grayscale, shadow nuances, and highlights lend a superior organic appearance to the visuals.

Despite some inevitable surface imperfections attributable to the condition of surviving elements, this Blu-ray release demonstrates a leap towards visual authenticity. The restoration does a commendable job in resolving uneven film grain, ensuring that even the most problematic scenes exhibit an enhanced and engaging depth. While the visual consistency varies due to the differing conditions of source materials, this release marks a definitive version likely unmatched on home video, reflecting both historical continuity and technical precision in its presentation.

The Blu-ray release of "Pandora's Box" offers a compelling array of four standard audio tracks. These include the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 orchestral score by Gillian Anderson, which sets itself as the default option, and three additional DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks: a Weimar-era cabaret score by Dimitri Pentchev, a 1997 modern orchestral score by Peer Raben, and a piano improvisation score by Stéphan Oliva. Each track maintains remarkable clarity and fidelity, with minimal distortion, ensuring a quality audio experience devoid of crackling or hissing.

While the inclusion of diverse scores may cater to varied musical tastes, some reviewers express a desire for a more modern, perhaps electronic, soundtrack to match contemporary sensibilities. The piano score by Oliva draws notable attention, though its abstract harmonies might be less appealing during more intense dramatic sequences. The modern orchestral score by Raben stands out for its dynamic range and diversity, though opinions vary on its overall impact.

In conclusion, this Blu-ray audio presentation significantly surpasses previous releases, offering a notable improvement in sound quality. Regardless of individual preferences for the provided scores, this edition is arguably the best auditory experience available for the film on home video. The technical execution demonstrates precision and care, enhancing the film's rich audio landscape while engaging both new audiences and long-time enthusiasts alike.

The Blu-ray edition of "Pandora's Box" offers a comprehensive suite of extras that enrich the viewing experience with historical and cultural insights. The archival audio commentary by scholars Thomas Elsaesser and Mary Ann Doane, initially from Criterion's 2006 release, offers a deep dive into the production nuances and cultural contexts. The traditionally narrated documentary "Louise Brooks: Looking for Lulu" provides an extensive look into the life of Louise Brooks, complemented by personal interviews. "Lulu in Berlin" stands out as a pivotal interview capturing Brooks’ reflections on her iconic role and experience in Berlin. Furthermore, Richard Leacock shares insights from his own interactions with Brooks, while Michael Pabst sheds light on his father’s directorial legacy. The disc also features a restoration trailer and an insightful 94-page booklet with essays and articles focused on the film's rich history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Audio commentary by Thomas Elsaesser and Mary Ann Doane.
• Louise Brooks: Looking for Lulu: Documentary detailing Louise Brooks’ life.
• Lulu in Berlin: Archival interview with Louise Brooks.
• Richard Leacock on Louise Brooks: Recollection of interviewing Louise Brooks.
• The Shadow of My Father: Michael Pabst on his father and Louise Brooks.
• Trailer: Restoration trailer for the 2K version of Pandora’s Box.
• Booklet: 94-page booklet with essays and articles.

Georg Wilhelm Pabst's "Pandora's Box" (1929) masterfully captures the human condition through the tragic narrative of Lulu, astutely portrayed by Louise Brooks. The Blu-ray release by Criterion revitalizes the film with a carefully reconstructed restoration, presenting it in eight acts that intricately traverse Lulu's ascent from street life to her ultimate downfall. The film's allure lies in its timeless exploration of human complexities, transcending the silent era's typical narratives. Pabst uses Lulu's beauty as a lens to examine the transactional nature of human relations—a theme articulated without moral judgment and remains ever pertinent.

The film’s technical prowess is evident through the striking cinematography by Günther Krampf, which vividly encapsulates Weimar-era Berlin's decadent yet bewitching atmosphere. Cinematic elements blend seamlessly to enhance the hypnotic allure that enraptures Lulu's world. Moreover, "Pandora's Box" boldly broaches subject matter ahead of its time, with overt references to LGBTQ themes through Countess Geschwitz’s feelings towards Lulu—daring content that met its share of censorship and bans upon release. Despite initial controversy and deviations from its Frank Wedekind roots, the film underwent various restorations, including a significant one in 2009, resulting in its esteemed position in cinematic history today.

Louise Brooks' performance remains unparalleled, imbuing Lulu with an elegance and complexity that captivated both contemporaries and later generations. Despite initial critiques and censorship-related edits which had once relegated the film to obscurity, critical rediscovery post-1950s has cemented "Pandora's Box" as a seminal work that not only fortifies Brooks' legacy but also solidifies its stature as a major milestone in German and world cinema. This enduring classic offers viewers a profound engagement with its nuanced portrayal of societal dynamics propelled by its timeless lead protagonist.

G.W. Pabst's "Pandora's Box," a cornerstone of German cinema, receives a transformative update with its Criterion Blu-ray release. This version is distinguished by a meticulous 2K restoration that rejuvenates the visual experience, allowing contemporary audiences to connect with this silent film's enduring themes and striking contrasts. Set against the backdrop of the Weimar Republic, the film's exploration of decadence and societal contrasts remains relevant, resonating with viewers today. The restoration is complemented by a consistent transfer that aptly captures the film's complex aesthetic, enhancing both clarity and texture.

The Blu-ray release excels not only in picture quality but also in its comprehensive suite of special features, carried over from Criterion's previous DVD edition. These extras provide rich context, further solidifying Louise Brooks' iconic performance in the role of Lulu. Despite past critiques—stemming from comparisons to its source material and various altered versions—the film is now celebrated for its artistic and cultural impact. Criterion's meticulous attention to detail ensures that this release honors the film's legacy while making it accessible to a new generation.

In conclusion, "Pandora’s Box" on Blu-ray presents an essential viewing experience that bridges classic cinema with modern expectations, marrying historical critique with technical excellence. The contrasts that define the world of Lulu and the film's era continue to offer valuable insights into our own society, ensuring its relevance persists. This release is a must-have for film enthusiasts and collectors alike, highly recommended for its exemplary restoration and enriching features.