The Passion Of Joan Of Arc [La Passion De Jeanne D'Arc]- Masters Of Cinema - Double Play (Blu-ray + DVD) - Steelbook [1928]

This is a really beautiful and chunky steelbook package from MoC. Housed in an extremely stout card slip case, printed in colour, is the steelbook case, adorned only with black and white images of Joan. Along side the disc comes a beautifully produced book that's heaving with photos, illustrations and articles of analysis and appreciations by other artists.

Of the restoration itself, a short sequence of before and after images provides ample evidence of the deplorable condition of the original material and the astonishing detail and clarity that has been revealed by the restoration process. While there remains a considerable amount of surface scratching [which is not intrusive during viewing] most of the damage associated with age and neglect has been successfully and sympathetically eradicated. There are only a few images not up to the standard of the majority; these largely appearing in the final 'riot' sequence.

This end sequence I find strangely incongruous coming at the end of a film renowned for its exceptional composition of continuous close-up shots. While providing a rabble rousing climax leading to the burning at the stake, the sequence is rather disappointing in its conception by comparison with what has gone before.

Of the disc; the viewing options are very generous: of the 24fps and the 20fps versions I certainly find that viewing at 20fps is more satisfactory. Human motion does appear to be rendered accurately at this speed and it certainly wouldn't have been shot at 24fps.

It is thought that Dreyer's intention was that the film be unaccompanied and a silent presentation is the default option at both speeds. However, the 20fps version is also offered with a piano score, which I favour, while the 24fps version can be viewed with an avant-garde score that I found too assertive and unsympathetic and found silence preferable to its insistent attention grabbing.

As for the Lo Duca; I had not seen it before, I've only ever seen the original in a sad state in the late 1970's. It's of academic interest since it includes alternative Dreyer takes, but the attempt to rework the original concept with additional material is contemptible.

All this is packed on to one Blu-ray disc. The DVD version which I have not looked at is presented over two discs.

Magnificent: both the film and the package.

Quite possibly the best Blu-Ray release for 2012. Steelbook Package is absolutely superb, the film looks amazing. Masters of Cinema should be praised to the skies for their work in restoring this masterpiece with the obvious care they have for classic cinema. No noticeable DNR or edge enhancement that can blight many a restored film, a fantastic Blu Ray that's very easy to recommend.

Thanks MASTERS OF CINEMA for this utterly impressive edition of one of the great masterpieces of movie history.

Every aspect of the release is simply stunning. Great picture quality. Terrific extras, if you count the "Lo duca version" as an "extra". Interesting scores. And a seriously impressive package design including a lavish 100 page booklet.

Kudos! Continue the great work.