September Storm Blu-ray Review

The 2D presentation of "September Storm" offers a generally pleasing filmic image, boasting a modest yet effective grain structure. Textural efficiency is commendable, with well-defined skin tones, clothing, and environmental details like the rocky landscapes and wooden boats, presenting a strong level of definition and clarity. Color reproduction is sound, with natural greens and vibrant yellows standing out, although some fade is noticeable in certain shots and black levels occasionally showing some softness. Age-related artifacts, such as occasional static lines and pops, do appear but are minimal and non-intrusive. Despite these minor caveats, the 2D transfer maintains a respectable visual quality that's especially impactful during specific scenes such as the night-time stormy seas and underwater sequences.

Transitioning to the 3D presentation, "September Storm" truly excels. The restoration efforts by 3D Film Archive and 3D Space have significantly elevated the film's visual impact, presenting a robust sense of depth and dimension. Initial titles show minimal pop-out effect, but the background water bubbles provide a considerable depth sensation. Seaside vistas extend impressively, with landmass perspectives reinforcing the extensive spatial dimension. Underwater scenes benefit from a striking level of screen-stretching depth, enhanced by small elements like bubbles appearing to float beyond the screen. Dynamic 3D shots, such as the angled view of a xylophone or the careful spacing in a club scene, highlight meticulous spatial detail. While some underwater scenes suffer from color washout, other moments - particularly during night-time storm scenes - deliver deep, accurate blacks, showing meticulous restoration without significant crosstalk. This exceptional 3D restoration solidifies "September Storm" as an immersive visual experience.

Ultimately, this Blu-ray release offers fans high-quality video across both 2D and 3D formats. While maintaining some traditional limitations inherent to older CinemaScope films, the diligent restoration has revitalized "September Storm," particularly magnifying its visual storytelling through effective use of color, depth, and texture.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 soundtrack in "September Storm" is characterized by its competent but not exemplary execution. Dialogue supports the film well, centering effectively and remaining consistently clear throughout. Music by Edward L. Alperson Jr. and Raoul Kraushaar, while attempting to provide a broader stereo experience, remains somewhat restricted to the center, occasionally feeling cramped. Key sound effects such as raging waters and gusty winds during the storm sequence do lack crispness and a more immersive spatial definition. However, the essential ebbs and flows manage to deliver the required atmosphere despite noticeable undercurrents of hiss.

Notably, the mono mix for the feature film has been refined to a high standard, effectively eliminating many age-related audio issues such as pops or crackles. On-deck scenes exhibit a layered atmospheric quality that aptly reflects open spaces, whereas below-deck scenes convey a cavernous echo—likely by design rather than a fault of audio aging. Sound effects contribute to the overall depth and cohesion of the film’s ambiance. The track's persistence of mild hiss is present but remains unobtrusive, ensuring that it doesn’t detract from the overall auditory experience. Also, the song “Be by You” played over the credits benefits from a distinctive stereo treatment that enhances its fidelity and rhythm.

Overall, while not without its flaws, "September Storm" offers a solid audio presentation that maintains clarity and cleanliness, supporting the film’s narrative effectively.

The Blu-ray extras for "September Storm" provide an eclectic and engaging mix of content, enhancing the release beyond the primary film. Highlights include the newly discovered short films that showcase both color claymation and black-and-white 1950s dance numbers, available in both 2D and 3D formats, adding significant nostalgic and technical value. Interviews with Asher Dann and Lewis Gilbert deliver insightful retrospectives, uncovering behind-the-scenes anecdotes and reflecting on the filming experience. The inclusion of theatrical trailers and TV spots in HD further augments the historical context of this release. These features collectively make this Blu-ray a must-buy for enthusiasts of classic 3D cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer in HD.
• Television Spot: Promotional ad in HD.
• Asher Dann Interview: Reflective interview with insights on his career.
• Lewis Gilbert Interview: Brief but informative discussion on "Harmony Lane."
• Sam Space: Claymation short film with vibrant 3D presentation.
• Harmony Lane: Detailed short with exemplary 3D quality.

The Blu-ray release of Byron Haskin's "September Storm" by 3-D Film Archive is a cinematic preservation success. This 1960 adventure film, painstakingly restored for a spectacular 3D presentation, offers historical significance as the last dual-strip 3D feature from the 1950s and the only Natural Vision 3-D film shot in CinemaScope. While the plot is simple, involving American model Anne Traymore (Joanne Dru) and the treasure-seeking trio of playboy Manuel (Asher Dann), adventurer Joe (Mark Stevens), and his sidekick Ernie (Robert Strauss), the real allure lies in its 3D visual splendor. Majorca's scenic beauty, impressively captured in color and enhanced by underwater sequences, stands out despite the lackluster storyline.

The film's strengths lie primarily in its technical achievements and rich visual experience. The underwater 3D photography is particularly noteworthy, surpassing predecessors like "Creature from the Black Lagoon" in both color and depth. Despite limited character development and a plodding narrative, the Blu-ray presentation allows viewers to appreciate the visual grandeur that defines "September Storm." Scenes of scuba diving, sunken treasures, and stormy seas deliver engaging 3D effects that heighten the film's sparse action sequences.

Acting performances are commendable but constrained by a rather thin script. Joanne Dru's Anne embodies glamour and grace, while Stevens and Strauss bring a touch of humor and ambiguity to their roles. Unfortunately, narrative tension remains moderate at best, with dramatic moments feeling superficial. The storm sequence, possibly the film's most dynamic scene, manages to inject some excitement. However, without the immersive benefits of 3D, the film's appeal diminishes considerably. Thus, "September Storm" emerges as an entertaining yet ultimately modest spectacle, where stunning visuals outshine a modestly engaging plot.

"September Storm," while not a standout film in its own right, gains significant merit through its impressive 3D presentation. The film, essentially an exotic beach movie with a treasure hunt narrative, effectively uses its stereoscopic effects to create an immersive experience. The four-person treasure hunt, though not remarkable in terms of storytelling, becomes engaging through the tangible, vibrant vistas that come alive in 3D, making the viewer feel an integral part of the adventure. The restoration work on the film is commendable, providing a solid 2D image and an outstanding 3D presentation that brings the classic back to life after nearly six decades.

The efforts of the 3-D Film Archive, 3-D Space, and Kino Lorber are evident in the meticulous image restoration and the inclusion of a robust two-channel soundtrack. Despite the film's vintage, the audio quality remains effective, highlighting essential sounds that complement the visual experience. Additionally, the Blu-ray release offers a notable collection of bonus features, including a pair of vintage 3D shorts which enhance the overall value of the package, making it a worthwhile acquisition for enthusiasts of classic cinema and 3D technology alike.

In conclusion, "September Storm" serves as an important piece of cinematic history, particularly for fans of stereoscopic filmmaking and vintage 3D films. The film’s narrative may not be its strongest aspect, but its historical significance and technical restoration make it a valuable addition to any collection. The beautiful 3D restoration and the engaging underwater sequences significantly elevate the viewing experience. Recommended for those interested in seeing how past filmmakers experimented with 3D technology and for those who appreciate high-quality restoration work of classic films.