Rapture Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Rapture" offers an impressive 1080p/AVC-encoded High Definition video, maintaining the original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.35:1. The black and white cinematography is striking, rendering atmospheric landscape shots and closer scenes with exquisite detail, highlighting skin textures, clothing weaves, and set designs. The contrast is excellent, with strong, deep black levels only slightly hindered by occasional crushing at the extremes. A fine layer of filmic grain enhances its cinematic vibrancy, providing a rich visual texture that aficionados will appreciate.

Despite the film’s age, some residual defects—such as minor scratches and intermittently noticeable edge enhancement—are present but not overly distracting. The high-definition transfer, reportedly derived from the same master used in the U.S. release, displays traces of edge-enhancement more prominently in daylight scenes. Nonetheless, the overall image stability is commendable. The encoding, described as superior, ensures better-resolved film grain without problematic degraining corrections. Tiny flecks appear sporadically, with no large debris or significant damage to note. This video presentation honors the film's black-and-white visuals with a highly respectful and robust transfer, only slightly marred by minor technical inconsistencies.

The audio presentation of "Rapture" on Blu-ray is commendable, particularly given the inherent limitations of the 1.0 track, which is delivered in lossless DTS-HD Master Audio. The most striking element is undeniably the haunting and evocative score by Georges Delerue, which elevates the entire aural experience. The dialogue maintains clarity and coherence throughout and is given free rein across the frontal array, standing out against the atmospheric score and sound effects. Notably, the dynamic moments such as storms or cityscape noises are captured with a satisfying level of immersion, though the overall range is predictably narrow due to the format constraints.

Eureka Entertainment also offers an English LPCM 2.0 track, providing a well-rounded and stable sound experience with good depth and clarity, particularly during intense sequences like police chases. Georges Delerue’s score continues to shine in this format, establishing the mood and emotional tone effectively. Dialogue remains crisp and steady with no issues of background hiss, audio dropouts, or distortions, ensuring an unobtrusive listening experience. Optional English SDH subtitles are available, positioning neatly within the image frame for those who require them.

Overall, the audio delivery, though restrained by the limitations of its original format, manages to impress through its clear dialogue, well-captured atmospheric effects, and a profoundly moving score that enriches the cinematic experience.

The Blu-ray edition of "Rapture" provides a surprisingly robust array of extras. Most notably, it features an engrossing audio commentary by renowned film historians Julie Kirgo and Nick Redman, who meticulously delve into the film’s themes, cinematography, and performances while offering rich insights into director John Guillermin’s career. Although it lacks the Isolated Score available in the Limited Edition Twilight Time US counterpart, the disc more than compensates with its unique commentary. Additionally, a well-crafted booklet penned by critic Mike Sutton further enriches the viewing experience, loaded with thought-provoking essays and vintage stills.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film historians discuss themes, cinematography, and John Guillermin's career.
• Booklet: Features an essay by critic Mike Sutton and vintage stills.

John Guillermin’s 1965 film "Rapture" is an evocative and haunting coming-of-age drama that remains largely underrated. Capturing the moody Brittany beachfront with striking camera angles reminiscent of visionaries like Welles and De Palma, the movie embodies a profound blend of symbolism and simmering repression. The narrative follows 15-year-old Agnes, brilliantly portrayed by Patricia Gozzi, who lives under the grip of a domineering father and experiences an awakening of her nascent sexuality with the arrival of an escaped convict, played by a young Dean Stockwell. Through its religious subtext, acute character design, and unexpected plot twists, "Rapture" offers a depth and complexity that is both compelling and underacknowledged.

The film's evocative atmosphere is beautifully captured by cinematographer Marcel Grignon, whose fluid camera work enhances the visual storytelling. Georges Delerue’s atmospheric soundtrack adds to the overall tone, providing a rich aural backdrop to the intense emotions on display. Gozzi's performance as Agnes is striking; she exudes innocence, guile, and an enthralling bewilderment. Her interactions with Stockwell's convict are magnetic, adding layers to the narrative. Melvyn Douglas as the frustrated father feels occasionally out of sync but still contributes effectively to the tension-laden dynamic.

Key events such as the arrival of the convict and his subsequent interactions with both Agnes and the housekeeper (Gunnel Lindblom) reveal intricate facets of Agnes' personality, pushing the viewer to profile her in new ways. These interactions are charged with varied sexual overtones, most notably when the housekeeper attempts to seduce the convict. The film navigates these complex relationships, presenting actions and emotions that can be polarizing—authentic for some and absurd for others. Despite this division, "Rapture" remains a powerful, often overlooked gem that echoes the works of Bergman and Fellini.

Eureka Entertainment’s Blu-ray release of "Rapture" is a delicate balance of impressive visuals and technical prowess, further reinforced by Patricia Gozzi’s authentically compelling performance. Her portrayal breathes life into this moody French/American coming-of-age drama, captured in mesmerizingly rich black-and-white cinematography. The film is a mix of beautifully shot scenes and an evocative soundtrack by Georges Delerue, evoking a haunting yet engaging atmosphere.

Technically, Eureka has done an admirable job with this Region B-locked UK Blu-ray, delivering robust video quality and optimal audio fidelity. The enhancement of the master used previously ensures that details are crisp and shadows adequately balanced, preserving the film’s original aesthetic allure. Furthermore, the package includes a welcome commentary track that provides additional context and insight, which should be particularly appreciated by both fans and newcomers to the film.

Despite some narrative inconsistencies where the film tries to encapsulate too many thematic elements simultaneously, "Rapture" remains a charming hidden gem that is definitively worth exploring. With Eureka’s superior video and audio presentation, along with its enriching extras, this Blu-ray release is indeed a commendable addition to any film enthusiast's collection.

Driven by an impressively authentic performance from young starlet Patricia Gozzi, and captured with wonderfully rich and utterly striking black-and-white cinematography, this moody and mysterious French/American coming-of-age drama is a lost little gem that is definitely worth checking out. The video, audio, and extras make this a superior way in which fans and newcomers alike can enjoy this gem. On Region B-locked UK Blu-ray, Eureka have delivered an impressive package boasting strong video and audio, as well as a welcome commentary which fans will particularly appreciate.