The Suspect Blu-ray Review

Presented in a 1.38:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, the Blu-ray release of "The Suspect" by Kino Lorber boasts a 1080p transfer sourced from a new 2K master. This release offers a remarkably pleasing visual experience, despite minor density fluctuations inherent in the original elements. The overall delineation and depth are superb, providing a fluid visual experience. This master is exceptionally graded, with strong, stable blacks that avoid distracting crush, and grays and whites displaying nuanced ranges. Grain is present and looks healthy, contributing to an organic texture without any notable stability issues.

The 2K master does a commendable job of retaining the film’s noir aesthetics, ensuring the rich cinematography by Paul Ivano is faithfully represented. The transfer maintains a lovely film-like quality with no problematic digital alterations. Rich, deep blacks anchor the image while bright whites maintain their integrity without blooming. The varied gray scale enhances depth, though occasional shadow crush may be observed. Sharp close-ups are particularly notable, capturing striking details like the folds of Charles Laughton's face and showcasing the glamor of Ella Raines. Some minor vertical lines are present in the print and certain scenes appear softer than others, but the excellent contrast and clarity provide an overall exceptional viewing experience. This high-quality presentation is an excellent way to revisit "The Suspect."

The Blu-ray release of "The Suspect" features a singular audio track in English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 with optional English SDH subtitles. The audio presentation is notably clean and stable, with clear articulation in dialogue-driven scenes. Reviewers have found the sound to be free from technical issues such as background hiss, pops, and distortions. Though the music at times appears somewhat 'thin,' this is a characteristic expected from films of its 1940s vintage, and does not detract from the overall audio quality.

As a largely quiet film focused on dialogue, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track performs impressively by rendering the spoken word crisply and clearly, without age-related artifacts such as pops or crackles. The sound is well-balanced, and even subtle elements like horse hooves and footsteps are distinctly audible. The dynamic range adeptly accommodates Frank Skinner's music score, which adds emotional depth without ever sounding distorted. Particularly in scenes featuring robust exchanges between Charles Laughton and Ella Raines, the dialogue remains consistently easy to follow, showcasing Laughton's impeccable diction and adding to the immersive experience.

The Blu-ray of "The Suspect" offers a comprehensive audio commentary by the esteemed author and critic Troy Howarth. Howarth dives deep into the stylistic identity of the film, Charles Laughton's compelling performance, the ethical complexity within the narrative, and director Robert Siodmak's aesthetic legacy. Besides providing a cohesive analysis of the plot and characters, Howarth also touches on the film's treatment of domestic abuse, a daring subject for its time. Although the commentary could benefit from more production insights, it remains a robust and engaging track. Additionally, this disc includes select trailers from Kino Lorber's catalog.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Author Troy Howarth discusses the film in detail, including key cinematic elements.
• Trailers: Previews for "The Paradine Case," "Witness for the Prosecution," "The Spiral Staircase," "Cry of the City," and "So Evil My Love."

Robert Siodmak's "The Suspect" (1944) presents an intriguingly complex exploration of moral ambiguity wrapped in an accessible film noir narrative. Anchored by Charles Laughton's captivating performance as Philip Marshall, the film delves deep into a character study rather than focusing solely on the act of murder. Laughton’s portrayal is uncharacteristically subtle, showcasing meticulous restraint while ensuring that his character remains both sympathetic and morally compromised. Paul’s transition from a miserable man trapped in an abusive marriage to a calculating murderer is presented with finesse, compelling the audience to empathize with his plight despite his heinous actions. This nuanced portrayal is supported by the film's atmospheric production, period-appropriate settings, and strong supporting performances.

Philip Marshall's relationship dynamics serve as the engine of the film. His oppressive marriage to Cora (Rosalind Ivan) and subsequent connection with the young, vibrant Mary Gray (Ella Raines) offer a keen examination of personal desperation and the extents one might go to escape it. The script avoids simplistic judgments, showing Philip's criminal evolution as a desperate, almost logical progression from his emotionally suffocating life. Inspector Huxley's (Stanley Ridges) suspicions add a layer of suspense, yet the narrative uniquely avoids any direct on-screen violence. This choice accentuates the psychological intensity and moral quandaries embedded in the storytelling.

Siodmak’s direction stands out by blending film noir elements with robust character development. The focus remains not on the procedural aspects of the crime but on the environment and internal struggles that shape Philip's actions. The supporting cast, while not widely recognized, delivers authentic performances that enhance the film's immersive quality. This Blu-ray edition, powered by 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono audio, guarantees a crisp viewing experience that complements Siodmak's meticulously crafted visuals and narrative style.

Robert Siodmak's "The Suspect" is an evocative film noir crafted from James Ronald's novel material. Instead of emphasizing suspense, the film delves deeply into character study, particularly focusing on Charles Laughton's role as a beleaguered husband who finds himself pushed to extreme measures. Laughton’s understated performance is memorable and commands attention as his character navigates morally ambiguous territory. The surrounding cast delivers commendable support, contributing to a robust narrative that explores the depths of human desperation.

The Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber is sourced from a high-quality 2K master provided by Universal Pictures. This restoration presents the film with exceptional visual clarity, highlighting the intricate details that further enhance Siodmak’s direction. The audio, presented in a solid lossless format, ensures that every line of dialogue is clear and impactful. Additionally, the exclusive audio commentary by Troy Howarth offers insightful perspectives, making this edition an enriching experience for ardent film buffs and casual viewers alike.

Conclusively, "The Suspect" is a compelling film that diverges from classic noir staples by focusing on its protagonist's internal struggle rather than external suspense. This Blu-ray release is an excellent opportunity to appreciate one of Hollywood’s overlooked gems, bolstered by superb technical restoration and expert commentary. Very highly recommended.