Gilda Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray presentation of "Gilda" offers a 1080p transfer in a 1.34:1 aspect ratio, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. Leveraging a high-definition digital transfer created on a Spirit DataCine film scanner from a 35mm fine-grain master, this release delivers a visually stunning experience. The entire film exhibits an organic and pleasing appearance, benefiting from the UCLA Film and Television Archive's 2K restoration, in conjunction with Sony Pictures Entertainment, the Library of Congress, and the National Film and Television Archive U.K.

From the outset, the meticulous care in remastering is evident. The image boasts considerable clarity and sharpness, with close-ups revealing impressive depth, even during darker scenes. Inky black levels and a varied gray scale provide robust contrast and striking clarity. The high level of detail showcases notable elements, from Hayworth's allure to Ford's rugged features. Though minor density fluctuations and occasional tiny blemishes are present, there are no significant disruptions. The integrity of the film grain enhances the overall film-like feel without intruding upon the viewing experience.

Overall image stability remains robust throughout the film, though some print inconsistencies and minor vertical lines appear occasionally but do not detract from the film. The visual consistency brings an enhanced noir atmosphere with excellent shadow details and crisply defined silhouettes. The background elements and costume textures stand out vividly, elevating the cinematic quality of this classic. While Columbia Pictures' modest production values are more apparent due to the increased clarity, this transfer marks a significant improvement over previous releases, making this Blu-ray edition of "Gilda" an essential acquisition for any film noir aficionado.

The Blu-ray release of "Gilda" features a single standard audio track: English LPCM 1.0, with optional English SDH subtitles available for the main feature. This lossless track significantly enhances the musical numbers, particularly in comparison to the lossy track found on previous releases. For instance, during Gilda's final performance in the third act, listeners will notice improved depth while maintaining identical clarity. Overall, the dialogue remains stable and clean throughout, devoid of pops, audio dropouts, or digital distortions, ensuring a seamless auditory experience.

The original monaural soundtrack has been meticulously remastered at 24-bit from the 35 mm soundtrack negative, yielding impressive results for a film from this era. Although some mild surface noise can be detected during quieter sequences, any audible imperfections such as pops or crackles are conspicuously absent. The ambient noises of the casino and Carnival celebration are presented with fine presence and detail, contributing to the immersive quality of the audio. Hugo Friedhofer's Latin-tinged score fills the room effectively, with a slight level boost particularly enhancing Rita Hayworth's iconic musical numbers such as 'Amado Mio' and 'Put the Blame on Mame.' The audio mix demonstrates a wide dynamic range that handles highs, lows, and sonic accents with ease, free from distortion or other anomalies.

Both dialogue and musical elements benefit from the straightforward but effective mix offered on this Blu-ray release. Despite the simplicity of the monaural format, the remastering efforts provide a rich and detailed auditory experience that honors the film’s vintage charm while meeting modern expectations for sound quality.

The Extras on the Blu-ray of "Gilda" provide an extensive and rewarding supplement to the main feature, showcasing insightful perspectives from notable film historians and directors. The collection dives deep into both the film's subtexts and the legendary aura of Rita Hayworth. Highlights include a 2015 interview with Eddie Muller, exploring the provocative elements of the film, and a 2010 commentary by Richard Schickel, analyzing its influence and nuanced relationships. Scorsese and Luhrmann's featurette is particularly engrossing, offering contemporary directors' takes on this iconic film. The vintage documentary on Rita Hayworth adds a historic touch, further enriching the viewer's understanding of her life and career. These well-curated extras are indispensable for any film enthusiast.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Richard Schickel's insights on Gilda's themes, characters, and cultural impact.
• Martin Scorsese and Baz Luhrmann: Directors discuss Gilda and Rita Hayworth's performance.
• Hollywood and the Stars: The Odyssey of Rita Hayworth: 1964 TV episode about Hayworth's life and legacy.
• Eddie Muller: Interview on Gilda's subversive nature and underlying themes.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original preview of the film.
• Leaflet: Illustrated essay by critic Sheila O'Malley.

Charles Vidor's "Gilda" (1946) is a quintessential film noir that finds a perfect balance between bruising emotional drama and the classic seductive allure of its leading lady, Rita Hayworth. The film's underlying currents of repressed desire, manipulation, and unrequited love are set against the bustling yet shadowy backdrop of post-World War II Buenos Aires. The straightforward yet intricate plot revolves around Johnny Farrell (Glenn Ford), a small-time gambler who falls into a convoluted triangle with his new employer, the enigmatic casino owner Ballin Mundson (George Macready), and Mundson's electrifyingly beautiful wife, Gilda (Hayworth). As Johnny and Gilda's past relationship bubbles to the surface, escalating tensions culminate in explosive confrontations.

One of the film's most remarkable aspects is its script, skillfully crafted with sharp dialogue that balances boldness and subtlety. The conversations bristle with innuendo and double entendre, giving life to a story thrumming with psycho-sexual tension. Hayworth's Gilda is the centerpiece, her screen presence undeniably magnetic as she oscillates between a sultry siren and a woman yearning for genuine emotional connection. Iconic moments like her entrance and the unforgettable musical number “Put the Blame on Mame” further cement her in film lore, transforming otherwise simple scenes into mesmerizing cinema.

The exceptional cinematography by Rudolph Mate and orchestrations by Hugo Friedhofer elevate "Gilda" further. Mate’s lush visual tones and shadow-play envelop the film in an almost dreamlike quality, enhancing the narrative’s mystique. Even secondary characters leave strong impressions; Steven Geray’s portrayal of Uncle Pio, the wise washroom attendant, adds depth to the storyline. All these elements coalesce to maintain "Gilda’s" place not just as a film noir classic but as an enduring piece of cinematic art that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.

Criterion's Blu-ray edition of "Gilda" is an exemplary release that upholds the allure of classic Hollywood. The film, a quintessential piece of film noir, showcases Rita Hayworth in one of her most iconic roles while being supported by stellar performances from Glenn Ford and George Macready. Directed masterfully by Charles Vidor, "Gilda" combines twisted longings, underworld intrigue, an exotic locale, and a bizarre love triangle to create a captivating narrative. The script is sharp, the direction is strong, and the performances are compelling, making the film required viewing for enthusiasts of classic cinema.

The visual and auditory presentation on this Blu-ray disc are nothing short of superb. Sourced from the UCLA Film and Television Archive's 2K restoration, the video quality is pristine, capturing the intricate noir lighting and shadow play that defines the genre. The audio restoration also offers a solid experience, ensuring that every line of dialogue and musical note resonates with clarity. Supplementary materials further enrich the experience, providing viewers with insightful context and behind-the-scenes details that are integral to understanding the film's enduring appeal.

In conclusion, "Gilda" is everything one could hope for in a Hollywood classic. The Criterion release not only preserves its legacy but enhances it with top-notch technical specifications and engaging extras. This Blu-ray edition is an essential addition for any serious film collector. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.