Indochine Blu-ray Review

The Blu-Ray presentation of "Indochine" by StudioCanal, available in Region B, represents a remarkable restoration effort overseen by L'Immagine Ritrovata. Digitized and restored frame-by-frame in 4K, the resultant 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer is stunningly detailed, maintaining the original theatrical aspect ratios of either 1.78:1 or 1.85:1 as noted across reviews. The restoration is commendable, showcasing a clean and clear print with impressively detailed close-ups and an authentic filmic grain that enriches the visual texture. While grain levels vary depending on lighting conditions, the overall presentation is visually compelling with a richly vibrant color scheme and exemplary shadow details.

The transformation from previous releases is striking. Comparisons with the old R1 DVD emphasize improvements in clarity, depth, and fluidity. Enhanced primary colors and stabilized nuances now bring out substantial details, previously obscured in highlights and crushed blacks. The unique color grading provides a warm aesthetic, retaining the original green and golden hues while possibly needing minor adjustments in contrast for a better balance. Despite these small critiques, the viewing experience has been significantly elevated, far surpassing earlier versions. This meticulously restored Blu-Ray of "Indochine" is a testament to the dedication put into preserving cinematic art in its best visual fidelity.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Indochine" comes in two sophisticated formats: a natural-sounding Linear PCM 2.0 track and the more dynamic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Both tracks adhere to the film's original French language, paired with clear, albeit sometimes loosely translated, English subtitles. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track stands out as the more dynamic option, characterized by its ability to deliver a significantly enhanced listening experience. Dialogue is well-prioritized across the frontal array, ensuring clarity throughout, while environmental effects richly capture the atmospheric essence of the plantation setting. Additionally, Patrick Doyle's score becomes an emotive backdrop that contributes significantly to the film's emotional sequences.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track offers superior clarity and balance, especially noticeable when compared to the lossy audio track from previous DVD releases. The remastering process has expanded depth and provided a more balanced audio experience during more complex action scenes. Even though the 5.1 mix may not be exceptionally powerful or precise, its overall enhancement makes it the favored choice. This improved clarity extends to fully capturing the lush and evocative score, ensuring an engaging and immersive auditory experience without any detectable mastering or digital errors. Despite the presence of a two-channel counterpart, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track offers a compelling reason to opt for this version, guaranteeing a rich and refined sonic journey.

The Blu-ray release of "Indochine" features a noteworthy extra that will appeal to film enthusiasts and historians alike. The standout supplemental content is a comprehensive documentary titled "Indochine: Une Epopee a la Francaise." This hour-long feature delves into the production history of the film, enriched with insightful interviews from key figures such as director Regis Wargnier, assistant director Jacques Cluzaud, assistant set decorator Claudine Bufnoir, and cinematographer François Catonne. Produced by French documentarian Dominique Maillet, the documentary offers a nuanced look at the narrative's historical backdrop. It’s presented in French with English subtitles, ensuring accessibility for international audiences. This inclusion significantly enhances the value of the Blu-ray edition, providing depth and context that complements the main feature effectively.

Extras included in this disc:

• Indochine: Une Epopee a la Francaise: In-depth look at the production with new interviews and historical context.

Wonderfully restored for its 25th anniversary, "Indochine" shines as a sumptuous period epic that captivates both visually and emotionally. Directed by Regis Wargnier, this French film offers a unique and enthralling glimpse into the turbulent era of French colonial rule in Southeast Asia. The narrative centers on Eliane (Catherine Deneuve), a widowed plantation owner who adopts Camille (Linh Dan Pham), the orphaned daughter of her Vietnamese friends. Both their lives are irrevocably changed when they fall for the same naval officer, Jean-Baptiste (Vincent Perez), amidst growing nationalist movements. Deneuve’s commanding performance earned her an Oscar nomination and adds a profound layer to this sweeping film.

The Blu-ray release from StudioCanal presents a meticulously crafted 4K restoration of the original International Version, which runs approximately 159 minutes. Set against a vibrant historical backdrop, Wargnier’s direction artfully juxtaposes the personal dramas of its characters with the broader socio-political upheavals of 1930s Indochina. The film's visual elegance is comparable to classics such as "The Last Emperor," skillfully blending authentic period details with lush cinematography. Deneuve and Perez deliver compelling performances that anchor the story, while Linh Dan Pham's acting debut as Camille brings a poignant freshness to the film.

While the narrative occasionally overlaps, Wargnier maintains an impartial stance that enriches the film’s conscience, avoiding overt allegiance to any political faction. This neutrality allows the historical events to unfold organically, giving viewers a nuanced understanding of the complexities of colonial Indochina. The tale of love and revolution in “Indochine” not only creates an engrossing cinematic experience but also provides a meaningful commentary on the era’s socio-political landscape, making it a remarkable addition to any film collection.

Studiocanal's Region B-locked UK Blu-ray release of "Indochine" is a masterful rendition of Regis Wargnier's period drama, benefiting enormously from a meticulous 4K restoration carried out under the director's supervision. Notably showcased last year in the Classics section of the Cannes Film Festival, this version of the film has transitioned impressively to Blu-ray. The restoration vividly enhances the visual fidelity, capturing the lush landscapes and intricate period details with remarkable clarity and depth.

The audio quality is equally commendable, providing a rich and immersive listening experience that significantly complements the film's dramatic undertones. Additionally, this release features a comprehensive retrospective documentary that adds valuable context and offers insightful reflections on the movie's production and legacy, making it an essential supplement for cinephiles and enthusiasts of the film.

In conclusion, Studiocanal's Blu-ray package of "Indochine" is a premier release offering impeccable visual and audio quality alongside robust supplementary material. This meticulously restored edition is highly recommended for both long-time admirers and new viewers, affirming the film's timeless appeal. A quarter of a century on, "Indochine" has never looked or sounded better. Highly recommended.

You can buy Indochine on Blu-ray here.