The Outcasts Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "The Outcasts" by Deaf Crocodile features a meticulous 2K restoration, presented in 1080p MPEG-4 AVC and retaining the original 1.66:1 widescreen aspect ratio. This version marks the first North American release of the film in high definition. The restoration process harnessed a 35mm print, blown up from the original 16mm film, meticulously handled by the Irish Film Institute. The fidelity to the source material is evident, maintaining an authentic feel while showcasing moderate softness inherent to 16mm film—an expected characteristic that doesn't detract but rather adds to the filmic experience.

Despite the original source's limitations, the transfer quality exhibits exceptional clarity and provides a visually engaging viewing experience. The restoration captures an organic aesthetic, with colors reproduced impressively to enhance the film's visual narrative. The cinematic quality conveyed through this release is notably effective, affirming this edition as a testament to both historical preservation and modern technological execution, resulting in a film presentation that remains true to its origins while appealing to contemporary audiences.

The Blu-ray release of "The Outcasts" features a DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track, showcasing audio clarity and precision throughout its presentation. The dialogue is well-reproduced, offering a clear and satisfying auditory experience that complements the high-quality 2K video restoration. This audio presentation is a testament to the meticulous efforts of the Irish Film Institute and Deaf Crocodile, making for a distinguished auditory experience.

Additionally, the release provides audio in English 1.0 mono LPCM, with optional English SDH subtitles, meticulously restored from the original 35mm optical soundtrack by Avatar Audio Post Production. The restoration process has minimized noise and analogue artifacts effectively, though some distortion may be noticeable during peak levels in Steve Cooney’s score. Despite these minor imperfections, the dialogue remains clear. The post-synced nature of the dialogue enhances its clarity, although it occasionally disrupts the cohesive integration into the overall soundstage.

In sum, the audio restoration and presentation on this Blu-ray release offer a remarkable listening experience, deftly balancing clarity and authenticity while highlighting the nuances of both dialogue and musical elements.

The extras on the Blu Ray release of "The Outcasts" offer a comprehensive and insightful look into the film's development, enriched by exclusive content that fans will appreciate. The set is presented with a deluxe chipboard art-box featuring captivating commissioned artwork, alongside a valuable booklet exclusive to this edition. For added value, a QR code provides access to additional transcribed bonus content online. The interviews within the extras delve deeply into the creative minds behind the film, although technical issues slightly impede the clarity of the director's interview. However, the breadth of content—ranging from personal insights to historical explorations—is impressively vast.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview with director Robert Wynne-Simmons: An in-depth conversation revealing his influences and career.
• Interview with composer Steve Cooney: Discusses music's integral role.
• Visual Essay by Rod Stoneman: Production insights from a film industry veteran.
• The Judgement Of Albion – Prophesies of William Blake: Artistic tribute with visual imagery.
• Early 8mm Films: A collection of captivating short films featuring prominent actors.

"The Outcasts" emerges as an essential folk-horror piece within Irish filmmaking, with a mystical narrative that captivates its audience. Directed by British-born Robert Wynne-Simmons and set against the backdrop of 19th century Ireland, the film explores themes of witchcraft through the journey of Maura, portrayed by Mary Ryan. The character's life spirals into complexity following accusations of witchcraft after her interactions with Scarf Michael, revealing a layered tale filled with surrealism and mythicism. This cinematic gem, while rooted in Irish folklore, also reflects the broader cultural milieu, showcasing the seamless blend of storytelling and visually enchanting filmmaking. This is particularly remarkable considering its context as part of a nascent era in Irish cinema during the 1980s.

Mary Ryan's performance is notable for her exceptional screen presence and inherent charm, lending authenticity to the narrative. Her ability to navigate the film's exploration of paganism and superstition amplifies its atmospheric depth. The contributions of production designer Bertram Tyrer and set decorator Cos Egan enhance the film’s visual narrative, supporting its surreal undertones with refined production values that complement the storytelling. The costume design by Consolata Boyle further adds layers of traditionalism and romanticism, providing a tactile sense of the era depicted.

Technical craftsmanship shines through in Arthur Keating’s exquisite editing and Seamus Corcoran’s cinematography, offering a visually sumptuous experience. Stephen Cooney’s score subtly enriches the gothic tones of the film, underpinning the haunting beauty of this small yet vital production in regional filmmaking. Despite being underrecognized outside its home nation, "The Outcasts" stands as a hauntingly beautiful cinematic offering that will resonate deeply with audiences, encouraging the development of a cult following upon its release in Blu-ray format by Deaf Crocodile.

The Blu-ray release of "The Outcasts" delivers an exceptional home viewing experience, marrying stellar cinematic artistry with high-quality technical execution. The restoration reflects an outstanding dedication to preserving the film's ethereal imagery, enhancing the visual narrative with first-rate video quality and impressive clarity. The audio presentation is equally commendable, offering a lossless track that underscores the cinematic drama with precision and depth. Mary Ryan's lead performance shines brightly throughout, driving the narrative with a captivating presence that underscores the film's standing as a significant piece of Irish cinema.

The release comes richly packaged with an expansive assortment of extras. This edition lacks the commentary by Rod Stoneman initially mentioned on Deaf Crocodile’s website, a noteworthy omission in an otherwise superior offering. Despite this, it includes a broad selection of supplemental content that dwarfs the British Film Institute's Region B version. Notably, the Deaf Crocodile release, though Region A locked, offers substantial value through its comprehensive extras and exemplary packaging, making it particularly appealing for North American audiences.

In conclusion, "The Outcasts" emerges as both a critical and artistic triumph. It is an outstanding cinematic achievement that captivates with beautiful etherealness and superb direction. Mary Ryan's performance is a must-see, anchoring the film's importance as a classic of Irish cinema. The Blu-ray release is exceptional, highlighted by superior video and audio quality alongside an impressive assembly of extras. Highly recommended for cinephiles and collectors alike.