Flower Drum Song Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Flower Drum Song" by Kino Lorber delivers a visually captivating experience with a 1080p AVC encoded transfer in the Panavision aspect ratio of 2.35:1. The presentation utilizes a brand-new 2K master, resulting in a visually dynamic offering that highlights the exquisite cinematography by Russell Metty. The image quality is generally superb, characterized by a vibrant palette, with deeply saturated colors like reds, yellows, and blues, alongside more muted pastels. The film's sets and costumes are rendered with impressive clarity, allowing viewers to appreciate the opulent designs and textures, particularly in the various musical numbers. However, minor inconsistencies in color temperature are occasionally noticeable during certain sequences.

The meticulous attention to detail in the transfer supports the film’s aesthetic, from the intricately designed sets to the intentional use of cinematic techniques such as forced perspective and high-key lighting in musical performances. These elements are particularly evident in standout moments, like when Nancy Kwan's character sees multiple reflections or the expansive Sunday number. Despite being primarily filmed on Universal’s back lot and sound stages, dressed as San Francisco's Chinatown, the transfer generally maintains clarity and vibrancy. Yet, some location shots, particularly those depicting San Francisco and some Chinatown sequences, exhibit slightly reduced clarity compared to studio-based scenes.

Overall, this faithfully rendered 1080p transfer captures the charm and vivid cinematography of "Flower Drum Song" effectively, making it a valuable presentation for fans of classic cinema and showcasing mid-20th-century production artistry.

"Flower Drum Song" on Blu-Ray offers an impressive auditory experience through its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. This configuration expertly provides ample space for Alfred Newman's richly detailed orchestrations, making the musical's vibrant score truly come alive. The side and rear channels are strategically engaged, providing subtle yet effective ambient effects, particularly noticeable during dynamic sequences like the carnival in Chinatown. Dialogue is consistently clean and clear, supported by optional English subtitles that enhance accessibility.

The disc also includes a robust English 2.0 stereo option alongside the 5.1 mix, both presented in DTS-HD Master Audio. The stereo track shines in its ability to present musical numbers with dramatic flair, allowing individual instruments to stand out with clarity. Notably, the dialogue maintains precision throughout, though it highlights an intentional halting delivery by Umeki and Fong, indicative of their characters' nuanced grasp of English. The orchestral score is a thrilling mixture of romantic ballads, comedic tunes, dance sequences, and even a fantasy ballet, all presented without any age-related audio disturbances.

Overall, "Flower Drum Song" in its Blu-Ray incarnation provides exceptional audio fidelity that meticulously threads music through the soundstage. By taking full advantage of the available channels, it heightens both the narrative and emotional impact of the film’s score and dialogue. Such technical attention ensures that this audio presentation remains both professionally polished and deeply engaging for listeners.

The Blu-ray release of "Flower Drum Song" includes an extensive and engaging array of extras that have been ported from the earlier DVD edition. Notably, the audio commentary by Nancy Kwan, moderated by Nick Redman, provides enriching insights into her role and reflections on the film's cultural impact. The featurettes on this disc delve deeply into various aspects of the movie's production and its significance. Each segment combines historical context with personal anecdotes, offering a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look. This collection is emblematic of insightful retrospection on both the artistic and societal facets of the film's journey from print to stage and screen, celebrating the legacy of Asian-American representation in Hollywood.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by Nancy Kwan: A conversation reflecting on the film and its broader cultural implications.
• A Classic Evolves: Explores the adaptation process from novel to film.
• Faces of the East: Discusses casting decisions and Asian-American roles.
• The Songs of Flower Drum Song: Focuses on the development of the film’s score.
• An All Access Pass to the Sets and Costumes: Highlights production and costume design.
• The Legacy of Rodgers and Hammerstein: Overview of their contributions to musical theater.
• Flower Drum Song Trailer: Theatrical preview of the film.
• Thoroughly Modern Millie Trailer: Included as a related production by Ross Hunter.

The Blu-ray release of "Flower Drum Song" presents a unique entry in the Rodgers and Hammerstein filmography, noted for its significant risk-taking in casting predominantly Asian actors for Asian roles—a notable departure from standard practices of its era. Despite this progressive casting choice, the film has been critiqued for not fully adhering to cultural authenticity, as it sometimes relies on stereotypes. The narrative, adapted from the novel by C. Y. Lee, focuses on cultural and generational conflicts faced by Chinese Americans in 1960s San Francisco. The film's plot, primarily comedic, explores themes of assimilation and the intergenerational clash between traditional family expectations and modern American culture.

Henry Koster's direction benefits from the adaptation's enhanced song placement, which elevates the musical experience without overshadowing the comedic elements. Notably, standout numbers like "I Enjoy Being a Girl" and "Fan Tan Fanny" feature inventive musical arrangements and choreography by Hermes Pan, designed to exploit the Panavision frame effectively—with Nancy Kwan's performance especially highlighted despite her vocals being dubbed. The film is characterized by lush Technicolor visuals that attempt to capture the vibrant essence of San Francisco's Chinatown, although some sequences arguably extend unnecessarily due to protracted balletic interludes.

Rodgers and Hammerstein's score remains a defining feature of the film, delivering both sprightly melodies and lyrical depth to character development. The performances by Miyoshi Umeki and James Shigeta provide emotional depth, with routes both touching and endearing. Supporting roles execute their comedic duties with flair, adding to the layered narrative exploring identity and belonging. Overall, "Flower Drum Song," while possessing some dated elements, continues to charm with its heartfelt performances and exploration of cultural dynamics in mid-century America.

The Blu-ray release of "Flower Drum Song" by Kino Lorber delivers a visually and audibly impressive experience, honoring the original charm and vibrancy of Henry Koster's film. This adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical is characterized by its lively and affective musical numbers, choreographed by Hermes Pan with eye-catching costumes by Irene Sharaff. The set designs add to the visual spectacle, making each sequence sparkle with creativity. While the film is somewhat old-fashioned and carries some degree of cultural stereotyping typical of its production era, it retains a unique stylishness and offers an engaging narrative experience that avoids heavy plotlines, opting instead for a lighthearted charm.

The technical quality of this Blu-ray is commendable, capturing the film’s picturesque aesthetics and the enchanting score with clarity and precision. Audio and visual presentations are sharp, enhancing the viewing experience and providing a more profound appreciation for the film’s meticulous production design. Despite the supplements being slightly outdated, they remain enjoyable and offer valuable insights into this landmark film's historical context and its impressive artistic achievements.

Conclusively, "Flower Drum Song" remains a charming and winsome film that showcases exceptional performances, notably by Miyoshi Umeki, whose portrayal is both sensational and emotionally resonant. While the narrative may not challenge modern sensibilities, it stands as a testament to its time's cinematic and cultural landscape. The Blu-ray's solid technical merits ensure that both long-time fans and new viewers can appreciate the film’s stylized allure. Recommended for its artistry and nostalgic value.