Birdman of Alcatraz Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of John Frankenheimer's "Birdman of Alcatraz" by Olive Films, presented in an aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, offers a 1080p transfer that shows both strengths and notable weaknesses. Derived from the same master used by Twilight Time, the transfer exhibits some obvious inconsistencies inherent to its older source. Depth levels fluctuate arbitrarily, often leading to flat segments, and grain exposure is less than optimal. Small white specks and occasional blemishes are noticeable throughout the film, though they remain scattered and non-distracting. Positively, there have been no artificial sharpening or polishing attempts, preserving a decently organic appearance with good grading and proper gamma levels. Image stability is commendable, making the presentation decent overall, but indicating that a contemporary restoration could significantly enhance the picture quality.

Despite using the same source material as Twilight Time's edition, Olive Films' transfer appears noticeably darker. This affects the sharpness of fine details and increases susceptibility to crush, particularly in dark sequences. The fluctuating bitrate also impacts the consistency of the image. Nevertheless, the print remains largely clean, with a pleasing grain structure that adds grit to Stroud's environment. Close-ups are particularly revealing, showcasing pores, facial marks, and individual eyebrow hairs with sharp clarity. Ritter's age makeup also appears quite natural. Importantly, no noise invades dark scenes, and no artificial enhancements are apparent. While this transfer may not match Twilight Time's edition in balance, vibrance, or detail, it still represents a significant improvement over DVD formats, providing a generally satisfactory viewing experience.

The "Birdman of Alcatraz" Blu-ray features a single audio track: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, accompanied by optional English SDH subtitles. The track is notably stable and well-rounded, offering a depth of sound with a range of proper dynamics. While the high-frequencies may display some exceedingly minor instability at higher volumes, the overall quality of this lossless track remains very good, suggesting minimal need for future remixes. This minor flaw notwithstanding, the audio experience is fulfilling and immersive.

Comparable to the Twilight Time disc, the DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 track excels in clarity and balance, devoid of any age-related noises such as pops or crackles. Delicate sonic details like birds chirping and feet shuffling are captured with precision, while more prominent sounds including gunfire and thunder add substantial heft to the mix. Elmer Bernstein's robust score resonates throughout, filling the room effortlessly and blending well with the film’s quieter moments. The understated elegance of this track, coupled with clean silences and comprehensible dialogue, enhances the overall viewing experience of this quiet yet powerful film.

The Blu-ray release of "Birdman of Alcatraz" features a thoughtful collection of extras that provide a deeper understanding of both the film and its historical context. Kate Buford's audio commentary is rich with factual information, offering insights into Robert Stroud's life, Gaddis' novel, and the film's production. Buford delves into Burt Lancaster's Hollywood career, John Frankenheimer's directorial choices, and the socio-cultural backdrop of the film's era. Despite occasional audio issues and some gaps that may deter less dedicated viewers, the commentary remains an informative resource for fans. Additionally, the original theatrical trailer offers a nostalgic glimpse into the film's promotion.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Lancaster biographer Kate Buford provides detailed commentary on Robert Stroud, Gaddis’ novel, the socio-cultural climate, production history, and key figures involved in the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer offering a vintage look at the film’s promotion.

John Frankenheimer's 1962 film, Birdman of Alcatraz, presents a complex and flawed portrait of Robert Stroud, a man who spent over fifty years in prison and transformed into a famed ornithologist from within his cell. The screenplay by Guy Trosper, based on Thomas E. Gaddis' book, skews historical accuracy in favor of delivering a compelling humanistic message. Burt Lancaster's heartfelt and restrained performance captures Stroud's evolution from a violent, belligerent young man to an introspective scholar who finds purpose in his study of birds, despite the embellishments and fabrications regarding Stroud’s true nature and history.

The film delves into Stroud's relationships with other prisoners, guards, his domineering mother, and a fellow bird enthusiast, while highlighting his scientific achievements and self-improvement efforts. Although much of Stroud's ornithological work occurred at Leavenworth Prison, not Alcatraz, the movie effectively portrays the confined, monotonous life of prisoners and their occasional sparks of humanity and redemption. Cinematographically, even in tight prison spaces, Frankenheimer skillfully maintains viewer engagement, with symbolic imagery such as a baby bird emerging from an egg illustrating Stroud's constrained existence.

Despite some slow pacing and factual liberties, Birdman of Alcatraz remains an absorbing character study underscored by themes of resilience and reform. Lancaster's nuanced portrayal is complemented by strong supporting performances from Telly Savalas, Thelma Ritter, Neville Brand, Karl Malden, and Betty Field. The film’s message advocates for a more compassionate justice system while exploring the indomitable nature of the human spirit. Technically proficient with evocative storytelling, it leaves audiences pondering the potential for rehabilitation and change, even under the harshest circumstances.

Olive Films' Blu-ray release of "Birdman of Alcatraz" presents a poignant yet historically inaccurate portrayal of Robert Stroud, compellingly played by Burt Lancaster. While the film's dramatization bears limited resemblance to the real-life Birdman, who was notoriously vicious and violent, it remains a testament to Hollywood's penchant for transforming dark history into watchable drama. Directed by John Frankenheimer and inspired by Thomas Gaddis’s novel, the narrative is both manipulative and carefully crafted, designed to invoke empathy and introspection despite its factual liberties.

This edition leverages the same MGM master used in Twilight Time's earlier release, resulting in a competent but less-than-perfect high-definition experience. The visual transfer appears darker and less polished, and the commentary track lacks the depth seen in the Twilight Time version. However, Olive Films' reissue does maintain audiovisual fidelity to a certain extent, offering a respectable alternative for those unable to acquire the preferred edition.

In conclusion, while "Birdman of Alcatraz" may not offer an accurate historical account, it holds its ground with strong performances and thought-provoking themes. Despite some technical shortfalls, Olive Films’ Blu-ray reissue stands as a worthwhile acquisition for fans of classic cinema and prison reform narratives. Recommended viewing for those interested in the nuanced interplay between fact and artistic license in Hollywood storytelling.