The River Blu-ray Review

The River's Blu-ray release, courtesy of Kino Lorber, boasts an impressive 1080p transfer presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC. While the master used for this release isn't newly minted, it shows strong organic qualities that manifest in notable depth and clarity. The visual density ranges from good to very good, providing a satisfying viewing experience despite a few softer segments. The use of minimal digital adjustments ensures that native details and nuances are preserved, contributing to the film's authentic look.

The color palette on this Blu-ray is particularly commendable, with skin tones and shadows rendered faithfully. Although a few highlights could have been optimized better, there are no serious anomalies to detract from the overall quality. Saturation levels remain consistent, and image stability is excellent throughout. Notably, there's an absence of large debris, scratches, or damage marks, making this one of the best visual presentations the movie has seen on home video. This release surpasses previous iterations, including the Universal DVD, offering a superior visual experience for discerning viewers.

(Note: This is a Region-A locked Blu-ray release. Viewers will need a native Region-A or Region-Free player to access the content.)

This Blu-ray release of "The River" features two standard audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Both tracks exhibit superb clarity and precision in dialogue, with no detectable technical or age-related anomalies. The lossless 5.1 track especially stands out, providing a dynamic range that engages the listener throughout the film. The audio remains consistently clean, balanced, and stable, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

John Williams’ evocative score benefits significantly from the 5.1 track, showcasing superior fidelity and presence compared to the 2.0 track. While the 5.1 track brings a notable depth to intense scenes such as those featuring flooding footage, it's not an audio mix designed to push the limits of high-end audio systems. Overall, this release likely marks the pinnacle of how "The River" will sound on home video, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles and casual viewers alike.

The extras on the Blu-Ray release of "The River" provide a deep dive into the film and its production, maintaining an informative tone while enriching the viewing experience. The new audio commentary from critic and filmmaker Daniel Kremer alongside film historian Nat Segaloff offers thorough insights and engaging anecdotes about the film’s background and director Mark Rydell's career. Attention to detail in these segments is commendable, allowing viewers a behind-the-scenes glimpse that enhances their appreciation of the film. In addition, the vintage U.S. trailer provides a nostalgic look back, complemented by a selection of bonus KLSC trailers for related films.

Extras included in this disc:

Commentary by Daniel Kremer and Nat Segaloff: New audio commentary featuring production background and career anecdotes.

Trailer: Vintage U.S. trailer for "The River".

Bonus KLSC Trailers: Includes trailers for "Raggedy Man," "The Bounty," and "Country".

Mark Rydell's The River (1984), starring Mel Gibson and Sissy Spacek, captures a harrowing story of a struggling farming couple in a small Tennessee town. Tom Garvey (Gibson) faces the dual threats of frequent flooding from a nearby river and the impending construction of a dam by the Tennessee Valley Authority, overseen by his wife's former beau, Joe Wade (Scott Glenn). Despite the inevitable hardships depicted, the film delves into deeper issues of personal determination, community bonds, and the struggles faced by small business owners in an indifferent economic climate.

Cinematographically, Vilmos Zsigmond's work stands out, capturing the rural beauty and emotional resonance of the setting. John Williams' evocative score further enhances the film’s atmosphere. Performances are robust; Spacek's portrayal of Mae Garvey is both luminous and resilient, earning her critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination. Gibson delivers a strong, albeit slightly flawed, performance as Tom, which has garnered varied opinions over time but underscores the character's essential stubbornness and heart. Scott Glenn’s nuanced portrayal of Joe Wade adds a layer of complexity to the film's dynamics, offering an ambiguous antagonist who wields significant power over the Garveys' fate.

However, while the film has its strengths, it is not without flaws. The script sometimes lacks depth and pacing, leading to moments that feel underdeveloped. Additionally, Rydell’s direction relies heavily on character observation rather than driving an emotional connection, which works inconsistently throughout the film. Despite these shortcomings, The River remains relevant today, reflecting ongoing struggles faced by those in precarious economic situations, making it a poignant, if imperfect, cinematic experience.

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "The River" is a compelling testament to the evocative filmmaking and narrative depth of this farm drama. Directed by Mark Rydell and cinematographed by Vilmos Zsigmond, the film is anchored by poignant performances from Mel Gibson and Sissy Spacek, who navigate the harsh realities of rural life in America. Though it was overshadowed by other similarly themed films upon its original release, "The River" stands out today for its emotional resonance and impressive cinematic techniques.

The audiovisual quality presented in this Blu-ray is commendable. The transfer is sourced from an older yet well-maintained master from Universal Pictures, which ensures that the organic beauty of Zsigmond's lensing is preserved. The high-definition transfer highlights the nuanced color palette and enhances the film's atmospheric tension. Additionally, the inclusion of an informative commentary track provides valuable context, enriching the viewing experience for both new viewers and long-time fans. This release is notably superior to any previous DVD or HD-DVD versions.

Kino Lorber’s edition of "The River" merits high praise and a strong recommendation. It offers a definitive home video experience for this film, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those familiar with earlier editions. The narrative's intense dilemmas and raw portrayal of American life continue to resonate powerfully, offering both entertainment and reflection. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.