Sangaree Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Sangaree" demonstrates an excellent 3-D presentation that sets a high standard from the beginning. The film’s three-dimensionality shines throughout, with organically dimensional scenes showcasing impressive space and separation between characters and objects. Particularly striking is the opening sequence with its intricate set-piece inside a dimly-lit bedroom where the sense of room proportions and spatial relationships are notably well-rendered. This level of detail extends consistently across various settings, from crowded ballrooms to intimate close-ups. Though it lacks the extreme 'pop-out' moments of other renowned 3-D releases, such as "Cease Fire" or "The Maze," it excels in providing a relaxed yet immersive 3-D experience that enhances the storytelling without overpowering it. However, some minor hardware-induced crosstalk issues are noted, which do not significantly detract from the overall refined and captivating presentation.

In 2-D, "Sangaree" is presented with remarkable clarity and visual flare courtesy of a thorough restoration from its right-eye original camera negative source. The Eastman color reproduction is robust, delivering high saturation and vibrant colors that make the costumes and set pieces truly pop. Textures and fine details are meticulously maintained, whether it's the resplendent fabrics of period clothing or the intricate decorative elements within both interior and exterior shots. Despite some inherent source-related issues like chemical dissolves and day-for-night footage darkening excessively, the overall image quality remains commendable. Grain is present but managed well, maintaining a filmic quality throughout. A few scratches and speckles persist but are minor in the grand scheme of this otherwise beautifully restored image.

Notably, the faithful 1080p resolution in the film's original 1.37:1 aspect ratio further complements the visual experience. Although slight variances in color quality due to the decomposing sources are observable, the restoration team has impressively cleaned up most dirt and scratches. The result is a viewing experience that preserves the charm of vintage 3-D cinematography with effective depth and minimal distracting damage, making it a gem for both 3-D enthusiasts and fans of classic cinema.

The Blu-Ray presentation of "Sangaree" includes a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 lossless soundtrack that admirably handles the film's mono audio components. The sound track's dynamic range is predictably minimal with tight center-focused spacing, reflecting the natural limitations of the original recording. Dialogue clarity is consistently adequate, maintaining a front-center emphasis that ensures the essentials are conveyed effectively, even if some slight crunchiness and compression are noticeable. Although the musical elements might not meet modern standards, they still contribute sufficiently to the overall atmosphere.

The score, composed by Lucien Cailliet, exhibits a mildly thin quality, likely due to the age of the source material. This DTS-HD mix provides a touch of static and popping; however, these artifacts lend an authentic, organic fidelity to the presentation. Notably, some sequences like the bar fight and the climactic mob scene stand out as auditory highlights, where complex soundscapes are rendered clearly without distortion. Despite minor aging issues, such as skipped or looped dialogue lines, the track overall maintains a strong performance with clean and clear audio, free from hiss or notable pops. The meticulous remixing ensures that all elements—dialogue, sound effects, and music—coalesce to deliver an immersive experience suitable for this classic film.

The supplemental content of the Sangaree Blu-ray provides an engaging and technically impressive look into the film’s legacy. The collection includes trailers in both 2D and 3D (though presented flat), a comprehensive restoration demo available in 3D which showcases the meticulous effort involved, and an entertaining 1955 Lux Radio Theater adaptation of the film, featuring performances by Arlene Dahl and Cesar Romero. The restoration demo notably highlights challenges such as negative deterioration, with before and after comparisons that illustrate the film’s breathtaking transformation. These extras, though not extensive, offer significant insights into the 3D restoration process and historical context of Sangaree.

Extras included in this disc:

• 3-D Trailer: Promotional material for the 3D release of the film, presented in 2D.
• 2-D Trailer: Standard advertisement for the film.
• Restoration Demo: Detailed video showing restoration efforts with split-screen comparisons.
• Lux Radio Theater Presentation: The 1955 radio adaptation of Sangaree starring Arlene Dahl and Cesar Romero.

Sangaree, Paramount's first 3-D production in Technicolor from 1953, is a complex film that blends post-Revolutionary War drama, romance, and multiple subplots with varying degrees of success. Directed by Edward Ludwig and adapted from Frank G. Slaughter’s novel, the movie features Fernando Lamas as Dr. Carlos Morales, who inherits the Sangaree estate from General Darby (Lester Matthews). This inheritance puts Morales at odds with Darby’s daughter Nancy (Arlene Dahl) and embroils him in legal battles, societal disdain, piracy, and even a plague. The film’s authenticity and rich set designs add to its period charm, though some narrative threads may appear convoluted and disjointed.

Lamas portrays Morales with charisma and confidence, adeptly navigating through numerous challenges that include heated courtroom confrontations, medical crises, and subplots involving piracy and old flames. His on-screen chemistry with Dahl is palpable, reflecting the real-life romance that culminated in their marriage a year after production. Despite these engaging performances, the film occasionally falters in maintaining dramatic tension and focus. Lurid studio sets occasionally mimic scenic Georgian backdrops but sometimes lead to an uneven tone, underscoring the campier aspects of 3-D cinematography.

Edward Ludwig’s direction excels in emphasizing Lamas’ physical presence but often downplays potential action set pieces. Barroom brawls and pirate ship intrigues offer glimpses of excitement yet lack sustained intensity. Costume designer Edith Head’s work vividly encapsulates the era’s elegance, enhancing both character portrayal and visual appeal. However, the drawn-out intricacies of estate law, class struggle, and fledgling romance often hinder a coherent narrative drive. Ultimately, while Sangaree incorporates several melodramatic elements and intriguing plot points, it frequently spreads its ambitions too thin, resulting in an ornate but intermittently engaging cinematic experience.

Kino Lorber Studio Classics and 3-D Film Archive have done an exceptional job with the Blu-ray release of “Sangaree,” providing audiences with a newly restored transfer that revitalizes this Paramount early 3D release. The film itself is a delightful romp, resplendently set with meticulously crafted costumes and well-executed performances from Fernando Lamas and Arlene Dahl. Smart story elements and engaging side plots keep the film from drowning in its myriad tangents, ensuring the central romance remains entertaining within its historical context.

The technical qualities of this Blu-ray are commendable, with terrific 3-D cinematography that enhances the viewing experience. The restoration brings the film back to life with a pristine image quality that far surpasses expectations from a title of its age. The audio track is robust, providing clear and authentic sound that further immerses viewers into the Golden Age of Hollywood. Notable extras include a comparative piece between the original elements and restored image, as well as the Lux Radio Theater production, adding significant value for enthusiasts of vintage cinema.

In conclusion, “Sangaree” is not only a fun historical escape but also a remarkable example of early 3D filmmaking. The restoration work by 3-D Film Archive ensures it can be appreciated in its full glory for years to come. Fans of the genre will find this release indispensable. Very highly recommended.