The Mikado Blu-ray Review

Criterion’s Blu-ray release of Victor Schertzinger's The Mikado presents a meticulously restored 1080p transfer, employing MPEG-4 AVC encoding and retaining the original 1.34:1 aspect ratio. The restoration process, orchestrated by Criterion, utilized a Spirit Datacine from a 35mm interpositive, complemented by thorough cleanup efforts using MTI’s DRS system and Pixel Farm’s PFClean system. Telecine supervision and color correction, conducted by Lee Kline and Martin Southworth respectively, have ensured an accurate, high-quality presentation.

Examining the video quality reveals notable improvements in clarity and color fidelity. The detailed textures of the ornate costumes and set designs are rendered beautifully, particularly in close-ups where finer elements like hair strands and stitching come sharply into focus. The color reproduction is robust, with a vibrant palette that enhances the visual appeal of this classic opera film. Despite minor issues such as occasional color pulsations and slight color shifting—particularly in Technicolor reds and greens—the overall color scheme is well balanced, giving the footage a lively and energetic feel.

While some softer edges appear in wider shots, the black levels display commendable gradation and depth, offering strong contrast without loss of background detail. Light grain is consistently present, adding a filmic texture that cinephiles will appreciate. The high-definition transfer represents a significant upgrade from previous releases, such as the 1998 DVD by Image Entertainment, unlocking greater detail and visibility that was previously obscured, thus breathing new life into Gilbert & Sullivan’s enduring comic opera.

Criterion’s release of "The Mikado" features a singular audio track: English LPCM 1.0, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles. This soundtrack has been remastered at 24-bit from the original optical tracks, incorporating meticulous noise reduction techniques using Pro Tools HD and AudioCube's integrated workstation. The diligence in removing clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum has resulted in a noticeably cleaner audio experience.

The remastered monaural soundtrack offers remarkable improvements in stability and density, yielding a fuller and stronger sound devoid of disturbing distortions. The clarity of the dialogue is particularly commendable; it is crisp, easy to follow, and free from any distracting pops, cracks, or heavy background hiss. The uncompressed PCM track, limited to the center channel, nevertheless delivers impressive acoustical presence and fidelity. The random chatter of villagers and large chorus numbers are distinctly perceptible, with each voice and instrument captured cleanly and sharply.

Moreover, the mix adeptly handles the musical scores, distinguishing between the highs and mids with precision and presenting a rich tonal balance. While bass frequencies might be expected to suffer in a single-channel presentation, they maintain an appropriate tone, ensuring that even in the grand musical moments, the audio remains both splendid and magnificent. For a musical that is over seventy years old, this Criterion Collection release presents an audio performance that is seamlessly fluid and lucid, doing justice to "The Mikado’s" vibrant and intricate soundscape.

Criterion Collection presents a thoughtful suite of features for the Blu-ray release of Victor Schertzinger's "The Mikado." Expertly curated, this selection includes exclusive insights and historical context, enriching viewers' appreciation of Gilbert and Sullivan's classic. Director Mike Leigh provides an illuminating 19-minute discussion on the film's adaptation, while scholars Josephine Lee and Ralph MacPhail Jr. delve into the historical significance of Schertzinger's film. Additionally, a 1926 promotional short by the D'Oyly Carte company showcases vintage production elements, and a deleted scene features Ko-Ko’s trimmed song "I've Got a Little List." The package is rounded out by rare audio excerpts from "The Swing Mikado" and "The Hot Mikado," and an illustrated booklet with a critical essay.

Extras included in this disc:

• Mike Leigh: Award-winning director discusses Schertzinger's adaptation.
• Scholars: Professors examine the film's history.
• 1926 D'Oyly Carte Promo: Short silent film promoting stage performance.
• Deleted Scene: Ko-Ko’s "I've Got a Little List."
• The Swing Mikado and The Hot Mikado: Audio excerpts from stage productions.
• Booklet: Illustrated with an essay by critic Geoffrey O'Brien.

Victor Schertzinger's 1939 adaptation of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan’s The Mikado delivers a spirited and genuinely entertaining interpretation, readily capturing the satirical essence of the original Savoy opera. The narrative follows Nanki-Poo, the son of the Mikado, who flees to escape an unwanted marriage to Katisha and finds himself entangled in a humorous love triangle involving Yum-Yum and Ko-Ko. Despite the film's Japanese setting, it maintains a quintessentially British tone, with character traits and mannerisms clearly rooted in British culture.

Schertzinger treats the film adaptation with respect for its stage origins, and although some musical numbers have been omitted, the film remains largely faithful to Gilbert & Sullivan’s vision. The charm of the original opera is preserved through animated performances, sharp wit, and lively direction that ensures audiences feel as if they are attending a stage performance rather than watching a cinematic production. Notably, Martyn Greene brilliantly portrays Ko-Ko, stealing scenes with his comedic timing and engaging dance routines.

The production design stands out with its effective use of set decors and period costumes that distinguish this adaptation from the stage. As highlighted by director Mike Leigh in supplementary materials, these visual elements imbue the film with a unique style that offsets its darker themes related to death and punishment, resulting in a lighter and more optimistic tone. The mix of D'Oyly Carte regulars along with Kenny Baker’s American presence adds a distinctive flavor to the film, though it occasionally causes some dissonance in character interpretations. Nonetheless, Schertzinger’s The Mikado retains its timeless appeal through memorable numbers like "A Wand'ring Minstrel I" and "Three Little Maids from School," securing its place as an enduring classic in popular culture.

Victor Schertzinger's "The Mikado" is an accomplished film adaptation of Gilbert & Sullivan's beloved comedic opera. Despite the inherent limitations of translating a live stage performance to film, Schertzinger's direction deftly captures the humor and charm of the original production. The film remains a remarkably witty and genuinely entertaining experience, often rivaling various stage renditions.

Criterion Collection's Blu-ray release of "The Mikado" is a treat for both film aficionados and Gilbert & Sullivan enthusiasts. The audio and video quality is superb, offering a crisp and clear presentation that enhances the viewing experience. Additionally, the release is bolstered by a rich selection of bonus features, including an insightful new video interview with award-winning director Mike Leigh, providing valuable context and behind-the-scenes perspectives.

Though looking slightly dated these days, Victor Schertzinger's The Mikado is still a remarkably witty and genuinely entertaining film. I actually prefer it over various stage productions of Gilbert and Sullivan's opera that I have seen during the years. As expected, Criterion's treatment of the film is very good. Their Blu-ray release also contains a particularly good new video interview with award-winning director Mike Leigh. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.