Buck and the Preacher Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Blu-ray release of "Buck and the Preacher" presents the film in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, utilizing a meticulous MPEG-4 AVC 1080p transfer sourced from a new, exclusive 4K master. The transfer is executed with impressive clarity, showcasing excellent retention of grain that respects the film's original texture. Outdoor panoramic shots are particularly breathtaking, matched by equally stunning nighttime scenes and close-ups that exhibit fine detail. The color palette, expertly graded, boasts healthy primaries and nuanced shades that effectively capture the essence of the western setting. The disc displays no signs of problematic digital corrections or stability issues, offering a consistently spotless viewing experience.

Underlying the technical finesse is a 16-bit 4K resolution conversion via a Lasergraphics Director film scanner from the original 35mm camera negative. The restoration of this beloved Western brings forward unparalleled clarity and detail, elevating it far beyond previous home video releases. Scenic elements like dust and the rugged terrain are rendered with remarkable realism, underscoring the film's meticulous production design. There is no sign of crushing in shadowy scenes, with black levels handled excellently even when characters, such as Preacher in his black attire, navigate dark settings.

Color reproduction is vibrant and accurate to the period, with costumes and landscapes rendered in vivid detail against the expansive Western backdrops. The flesh tones are authentic and finely detailed, delivering an immersive viewing experience that stands testament to the careful restoration process. Overall, this edition of "Buck and the Preacher" represents the film's pinnacle presentation for home audiences, capturing its gritty charm with unparalleled fidelity.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Buck and the Preacher" features a singular English LPCM 1.0 monaural track, which effectively captures the essence of the film's original sound design from the early 1970s. Presented with optional English SDH subtitles, the track provides clear and stable dialogue reproduction, ensuring that every line is intelligible and coherent. The soundtrack, composed by jazz legend Benny Carter and performed by renowned blues musicians Sonny Terry, Brownie McGhee, and Don Frank Brooks, is faithfully rendered, with notable precision in maintaining the integrity of the original score and sound effects.

The audio remastering process utilized the original monaural soundtrack components, referencing the original soundtrack negative and enhancing them at Bluewave Audio in Los Angeles. This meticulous process ensures minimal distortion, eliminating instances of crackling, popping, hissing, or fluttering. The dynamic range of the track is well-suited to the film's atmospheric needs, adeptly contrasting intense sequences featuring dynamic soundscapes with quieter, more subdued moments. Although the track does not feature low-frequency extension or surround sound presentation, it captures the intended dynamics within its mono limitations.

Overall, the audio track presented on this Blu-ray release is likely the best the film has ever sounded on home video, surpassing previous releases in both clarity and fidelity. Whether it’s the action-laden sequences or the horse gallops that vividly come alive, this audio presentation succeeds in delivering a vibrant cinematic experience that respects the film's original monaural intentions.

The extras on the Blu-ray release of "Buck and the Preacher" are a satisfactory blend of archival and new content, although not extensive. They provide significant insights into the film's production and cultural impact. The featurette "Expanding the Western," led by film scholar Mia Mask, offers an analytical perspective on the Black western genre and Sidney Poitier's directorial contributions. Archival television appearances by Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte enrich the package, revealing behind-the-scenes glimpses and historical context. Gina Belafonte's interview adds another layer, sharing personal memories and contextualizing the film in her father's civil rights work. The inclusion of an essay by critic Aisha Harris further deepens the understanding for viewers. Despite not being extensive, these features collectively provide a robust exploration for fans and newcomers.

Extras included in this disc:

• Expanding the Western: Film scholar Mia Mask discusses the film's creation and impact.
• Behind the Scenes: Archival footage from Durango, Mexico.
• Soul!: Poitier and Belafonte discuss societal issues and filmmaking.
• The Dick Cavett Show: Insightful discussion about the film and politics.
• Gina Belafonte: Reflections on legacy and civil rights.
• Leaflet: Essay by critic Aisha Harris.

Sidney Poitier's directorial debut, "Buck and the Preacher," is a revisionist western that captures the tumultuous post-Civil War era while integrating aspects of buddy comedy and Black Power themes. The film portrays Buck (Poitier), a hardened wagon master, as he leads freed slaves from Louisiana to Kansas, obfuscated by adversarial nightriders hired by plantation owners. Poitier directs with a firm grip, displaying a protagonist leading with integrity amid adversity in a period where both racial and genre conventions were being challenged. His portrayal resonates with his established persona of quiet strength, bringing depth to his character as a valiant leader and gunfighter committed to guiding his people toward promised freedom.

Harry Belafonte complements Poitier through the captivating role of Preacher, a humor-laden, resourceful conman whose journey with Buck transitions from rivalry to camaraderie. Their chemistry energizes the narrative as both characters resist convention and offer subversion within a genre traditionally dominated by white narratives. The interplay between Poitier's straight-laced Buck and Belafonte's cunning Preacher highlights the evolution of their partnerships—a reflection perhaps of broader, more nuanced depictions emerging in cinema at this time. The juxtaposition of these two characters provides a refreshing perspective on western filmmaking.

Despite some pacing issues where dramatic moments intersperse with comedic bits that momentarily disrupt the film's rhythm, Poitier’s inexperience behind the camera shows mostly in moments rather than overwhelming the film. While the blending of genres occasionally gives rise to inconsistencies—the film’s dramatic structure sometimes struggling against comedic tones—these are minor quibbles against its overall backdrop of landmark representation. "Buck and the Preacher" thus emerges as a distinguished piece within both western and African-American cinema, engaging the audience with themes of resilience while redefining traditional storytelling in its exploration of black historical narratives.

Buck and the Preacher, a seminal western directed by Sidney Poitier, gains a refreshing lease on life with Criterion's new Blu-ray release. The film, often overlooked at its initial release, seamlessly marries the classic western narrative with a nuanced exploration of friendship and Black liberation. Featuring standout performances by Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte, the narrative unfolds with a sly craftiness, injecting a fresh perspective into the genre. The restored 4K master ensures that every scene appears vibrant and engaging, while the sound is meticulously tuned to enhance the cinematic experience.

Criterion's release boasts an exemplary HD transfer that enhances the film's visual and auditory presentation significantly over previous editions. Special features provide additional context and depth, exploring the collaboration between Poitier and Belafonte and offering insights into the film’s impact as a revisionist western. This edition is essential for both new viewers and collectors seeking to upgrade from earlier DVD versions, as it truly elevates the original material to new heights of enjoyment and appreciation.

In conclusion, Buck and the Preacher, though stylistically divergent from contemporaries like Heaven’s Gate, contributes profoundly to the reimagining of the western genre. While it sometimes struggles with its tone balance, blending comedy with drama in ways that challenge its thematic coherence, it remains a unique film of its time. The new Criterion edition is a testament to the film's enduring relevance and offers an enriched viewing experience that reaffirms its place within cinematic history. Highly recommended for its historical significance, enhanced presentation, and engaging storytelling.