Crack in the World Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray presentation of "Crack in the World" features a 1080p transfer meticulously sourced from a new 4K scan of the original 35mm camera negative, presented in its correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The resulting image quality is striking, with a fine rendering of film grain, crisp detail, and an authentic color palette that genuinely enhances the viewing experience. Colors, particularly in dramatic sequences such as the finale, are vivid and provide impressive depth, while skin tones are faithfully reproduced, contributing to the sense of immersion in the film’s subterranean setting.

The restoration work is evident in the minimal appearance of scratches, tears, or dirt, with only brief imperfections present—mostly limited to several stock footage inserts which remain necessary for conveying the film’s epic scope. The clarity and contrast of the transfer occasionally draw attention to the era’s composite effects and miniatures; however, many of these techniques hold up remarkably well and the detailed presentation serves to underscore the craftsmanship involved. This high-definition release ultimately represents a significant visual upgrade for "Crack in the World," offering the film at a level of fidelity never before seen on home video.

The audio presentation on the Special Edition Blu-ray of Crack in the World is delivered via a 2.0 dual mono DTS-HD Master Audio track, showcasing significant technical improvements over previous home video releases. Dialogue is clean and intelligible, particularly commendable for a film of its era, with minimal distortion such as crackling, clicking, popping, or hissing evident throughout. The sound mix remains faithful to the original, ensuring that both the subtle conversational tones and the more dynamic elements of Johnny Douglas’ score are preserved with clarity.

The overall balance of the track leans toward authenticity but with some noticeable challenges during the film’s third act. While early scenes are presented at a reasonable volume requiring mild adjustment, late-stage sequences—featuring intense brass from the score, environmental effects like rumbling earth and falling debris, and heightened vocal performances—bring a substantial increase in loudness and dynamic range. Despite this dramatic shift, there are no artifacts or low-frequency buzz, indicating a careful restoration effort. Some viewers may notice the need to adjust volume settings in response to these fluctuations, though this seems rooted in the film’s original mixing choices rather than deficiencies in the current transfer.

Notably, the musical cues retain their period character even if some instrumental choices may seem mismatched to modern ears. In summary, this release offers an authentic and high-fidelity presentation of the original mono track while handling its dynamic demands with commendable technical polish.

The extras for the "Crack in the World" Blu-ray present a well-curated and informative suite of bonus content. The newly recorded audio commentary by historian and screenwriter Gary Gerani delivers a structured, detail-rich account focusing on the film’s production process and screenplay evolution, though the scripted nature may lack spontaneity. The two-part Sidebar features Tim Lucas and Stephen R. Bissette engaging in an energetic and thorough discussion about the film’s significance within both the science fiction and disaster genres. These featurettes are complemented by trailers for contemporaneous films, enhancing the historical context. Overall, while the extras lean toward traditional material, their depth and the expertise of the commentators offer substantial value to viewers interested in genre history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Gary Gerani: An in-depth look at the film's production history and screenplay changes.
• Sidebar with Tim Lucas and Stephen R. Bissette (Parts 1 & 2): A wide-ranging conversation about the film's legacy in science fiction and disaster cinema.
• Trailers: Previews for "The Day the Earth Caught Fire" and "The Last Man on Earth."

“Crack in the World” stands out as an ambitious and entertaining Cold War-era science fiction disaster film. The story centers on Dr. Stephen Sorenson (Dana Andrews), who leads Project Inner Space’s risky attempt to harness geothermal energy by drilling to the Earth's magma core—a process catalyzed with a 10-megaton atomic device. Despite the concerns of Dr. Ted Rampion (Kieron Moore), Sorenson’s rival both professionally and romantically, the bomb is detonated, unleashing catastrophic consequences: a massive fissure in Earth’s crust, triggering tsunamis and earthquakes with the existential peril of splitting the planet in two. The film balances speculative 1960s science with melodrama, notably a love triangle involving Sorenson, his wife Maggie (Janette Scott), and Rampion, adding personal stakes that mirror the unfolding crisis.

Director Andrew Marton leverages a sharp script by Jon Manchip White and Julian Zimet (with Zimet’s original on-screen credit restored in this release), crafting a tense narrative that explores human hubris in the atomic age. While modern geology has rendered the science outdated, the premise remains chilling in execution. The special effects are particularly noteworthy: extensive use of matte paintings, practical miniatures, and composite shots bring the global destruction to life with impressive ambition for the era. The technical craftsmanship from Alex Weldon and Eugène Lourié (also the film’s art director) ensures even complex visuals never feel cheap or unconvincing. Filmed in Spain, standing in convincingly for East Africa, the production values retain a sense of scope and credibility throughout.

Anchored by strong performances from Andrews, Scott, Moore, and Alexander Knox, “Crack in the World” maintains constant narrative tension through layered characters and ever-escalating peril. Its combination of practical effects ingenuity, emotive drama, and apocalyptic spectacle established a template for the disaster films that followed. The restoration highlights the film’s vibrant visuals, making this release an essential look at a milestone in speculative genre filmmaking.

Kino’s Blu-ray release of Crack in the World offers a substantial upgrade for fans of classic science fiction and disaster cinema. The new HD transfer significantly revitalizes the film’s impressive special effects, which remain remarkably convincing and immersive even under modern scrutiny—a feat not always accomplished by films of this era. The meticulous visual restoration ensures practical sequences, such as the ingenious volcanic island model, are showcased at their absolute best. These technical achievements do not overshadow the human element; the three leads deliver performances imbued with genuine pathos, elevating what could have been a standard genre exercise into a more emotionally resonant experience.

While the film’s premise contains its share of dated scientific logic, it capably transcends its “B-movie” roots, feeling more aligned with higher-budgeted contemporaries. The Blu-ray is augmented further by new special features, including insightful commentary that sheds light on both production and behind-the-scenes ingenuity, enhancing repeat viewings. Fans of tactile sci-fi exposition will appreciate memorable moments like the effective glass panel demonstration, providing an added layer of intellectual charm.

In conclusion, Crack in the World not only stands out as a superior cautionary science fiction tale but also receives exemplary treatment in this Blu-ray edition. The combination of an engaging narrative, impressive practical effects, and strong performances—paired with Kino’s careful restoration and worthwhile bonus material—make this release essential for collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century cinematic spectacle. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the genre or in rediscovering a classic elevated by first-rate home video presentation.