Unconquered Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Unconquered" by Kino Lorber offers a high-definition 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded presentation in the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.37:1. Notwithstanding the absence of a new restoration, the transfer is commendable, maintaining a solid performance across the entire viewing experience. The print appears well-preserved with minimal damage or wear, contributing to an overall sharp visual presentation. The encoding is executed effectively, ensuring viewers can appreciate an excellent color reproduction that honors the film's Technicolor origins.

Film aficionados will be pleased with the organic film grain and precise detail rendering that respects the essence of the original medium. The careful attention to preserving the film’s authentic hues and vibrancy means that its Technicolor palette shines through without compromise. This release captures the movie's aesthetic with impressive fidelity, and the lack of scratches, dirt, or tears offers an immersive and pristine viewing experience, far surpassing prior DVD versions.

In sum, while it may not feature a 4K restoration, this Blu-ray serves as a substantial upgrade for "Unconquered," likely providing the best visual quality for home media enthusiasts to date. Kino Lorber has succeeded in delivering a polished presentation that aligns with professional expectations, preserving the historical and visual integrity of this classic film.

The Blu-ray release of "Unconquered" features an impressive audio presentation with its English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track. This lossless format provides a clear and engaging sound experience that faithfully represents the original mono soundtrack. The dialogue is consistently crisp and intelligible, ensuring that viewers can easily follow the film's narrative without any distractions.

Victor Young’s score is beautifully rendered, standing out prominently in the mix without overshadowing other elements. The audio track maintains a modest dynamic range but excels in delivering a clean, distortion-free listening experience. Notably, this release marks a significant improvement over earlier DVD editions, offering what is likely the best home video audio quality for this film. The track is nearly free from any crackling, hissing, or distortion, which enhances the overall viewing experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Unconquered" provides a compelling collection of extras that enhance the viewing experience. The commentary by esteemed film critic Nick Pinkerton stands out for its insightful analysis, delving into the film's historical context and uncovering intriguing anachronisms. This commentary offers a blend of scholarly detail and engaging critique, enriching the understanding of the film’s production and narrative decisions. Another notable inclusion is the theatrical trailer in high definition, which revisits the promotion style of the era. However, knowledgeable enthusiasts may recognize the absence of a Robert Osborne introduction, previously seen on another release, which could have provided valuable context for classic film aficionados. The additional selection of trailers from Kino Lorber's catalog further complements the package, showcasing a broad spectrum of classic films.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Film Critic Nick Pinkerton: Insightful analysis on the film's nuances.
• Unconquered Theatrical Trailer: High-definition look at promotional material.
• Bonus KLSC Trailers: Includes The Plainsman, The Lives of a Bengal Lancer, Desire, among others.

Cecil B. DeMille's 'Unconquered' is a vibrant action-adventure epic that immerses viewers into a richly detailed historical narrative, grounded in its 18th-century frontier setting. The film, based on Neil H. Swanson's novel, vividly depicts the perils and conflicts surrounding colonial America, rasping against the ever-looming threat of native unrest led by the formidable Pontiac. Gary Cooper, in his signature stoic manner, embodies Captain Christopher Holden with strength and resilience, conveying silent gravitas to the tale's unfolding drama. Paulette Goddard captivates as Abby Hale, whose spirited performance injects life and complexity into the narrative. Their on-screen chemistry enhances the film’s dramatic tension and engaging storytelling.

From a technical perspective, 'Unconquered' excels with its awe-inspiring production values. Ray Rennahan’s Technicolor cinematography envelops the audience in lush visuals of the American frontier. The exquisite art direction by Hans Dreier and Walter H. Tyler captures both the grandeur of fabricated sets and the natural beauty of location shoots across Pennsylvania and Idaho's Snake River. Costume design by Gwen Wakeling further complements these lavish visuals, adding authenticity and style to the characters’ portrayals. Victor Young's evocative score reinforces the film’s adventurous spirit, lifting pivotal scenes with its dynamic orchestration.

Despite these strengths, the screenplay—a collaboration between Charles Bennett, Fredric M. Frank, and Jesse Lasky Jr.—relies heavily on familiar tropes and exaggerated narratives indicative of DeMille's cinematic style. While the script offers engaging one-liners and charismatic dialogue, it succumbs to historical clichés and an extended runtime that might test some viewers' patience. However, 'Unconquered,' under DeMille's distinctive direction, retains an undeniable charm and spectacle, providing classic action-adventure entertainment with a compelling backdrop of American history.

"Unconquered," while not the pinnacle of Cecil B. DeMille's illustrious career, stands as a notable action-adventure film with substantial entertainment value. The standout performances by Gary Cooper and Paulette Goddard anchor the narrative, underscoring DeMille’s knack for crafting compelling historical dramas. The Blu-ray version enhances the film's already solid production merits with a quality encode and clear lossless audio, ensuring an improved home viewing experience that doesn’t go unnoticed.

The Blu-ray release of "Unconquered," crafted by Kino, offers perhaps the definitive home video version of this classic. The HD transfer is impeccable, breathing new life into DeMille's visual storytelling with clarity and vibrance that surpass previous DVD versions. Additionally, the inclusion of a rich commentary track supplements the viewing with valuable insights, making it an engaging resource for both longtime fans and newcomers to DeMille’s oeuvre.

In conclusion, while "Unconquered" may have received mixed critical reception historically, this Blu-ray edition is especially appealing for those enthusiastic about DeMille's work. Kino’s efforts have brought forth a version that not only enhances the cinematic experience but also adds depth through its supplemental material. This release is highly recommended for upgrading existing collections and for those seeking a rewarding blend of history, drama, and adventure in pristine detail.