HTF HD DVD REVIEW: Grand Prix (RECOMMENDED).

Grand Prix
HD DVD







Studio: Warner Brothers
Format: HD DVD VC-1
Year: 1966
Rated: Not Rated
Film Length: 176 Minutes
Aspect Ratio: 2.20:1 Widescreen
Audio: DD 5.1 & DD+
Color/B&W: Color
Languages: English, French & Spanish
Subtitles: English, French & Spanish
MSRP: $28.99
Package: Single disc/Red HD DVD Keepcase





The Feature:
Though I have been on board with HD DVD since day one (Canada was a few weeks behind the US getting the players in), I have to admit, I have been mostly unimpressed with the format thus far. Not due to the limitations of the technology - far from it - however, the selection of the material. I recall the early days of DVD when everyone was raving about Universal’s remake and the exclusive DTS version of The Haunting. It was (and still probably is) one of the best examples of how audio can be reproduced on the DVD format. But who cares. It was such a horrible film. Beyond the 3 minute demonstration for friends and family members, the disc occupies truly valuable shelf space.

In the same vein, I’ve had very similar feelings for HD DVD’s with the majority of titles that have streeted so far. However, since the recent release of the 1956 classic, The Searchers, I can’t help but feel the engines are starting to rev (sadly, pun intended here). It would seem as though the studios have finally awakened and discovered that if this format is going to succeed, some trump cards need to be played. In the case of Warner Brothers, that’s just what they’re doing. With the recent announcements/releases of The Adventures of Robin Hood, Batman Begins and The Polar Express (among others) finally, we have titles that are worth getting excited over.

While Grand Prix isn’t necessarily a classic in the literal sense, it is one of the finest racing films ever produced (and hey, anything with a young Garner is worth a look, in my opinion). Directed by John Frankenheimer and starring the young James Garner, Grand Prix covers a multitude of cinematic dynamics. A film that not only examines the sport itself, but contains plenty of action to keep even non-enthusiasts interested as well as its fair share of thick melodrama as the film borders on soap.

Pete Aron (played by James Garner), an American race car driver, is responsible for hospitalizing his teammate, Scott Stoddard (played by Brian Bedford). Aron winds up losing his corporate sponsorship and tries to salvage what’s left of his reputation. Senior circuit members include Jean-Pierre Sarti (played by Yves Montand), and Nino Barlini (played by Antonio Sabato) who also appear throughout the film at various racing venues always in constant competition for the number one spot. As the various races unfold, the drivers make a series of discoveries beyond the art of racing; ones that will eventually result in a close examination of their personalities as well as a grounded perspective of their goals and ideals.

The film was also a success in terms of its technical achievements as it went on to garner (pun not intended this time), three Oscars for Best Sound, Sound Effects and Film Editing. Also worthy of praise is the unique title creation of Saul Bass whose work stands out as “ahead of its time”, like much of the film itself.

The Feature: 3.5/5




Video:
Just like the SD DVD, Warner has once again done wonders remastering this 65mm Super Panavision 70 film which has resulted in one of the best HD titles thus far. The level of image definition is very impressive. Facial close-ups as well as wider and longer shots are incredibly detailed and film-like. Given the nature of the 65mm film, the process would be as much, if not moreso, responsible for the fantastic image, but still – this looks great.

Colors appear accurate and vibrant while skin tones looked real. In another HD strongpoint, blacks looked deep and well defined, while whites looked crisp. The level of contrast was fine. The image is beautiful and smooth. The level of texture and dimensionality are also terrific and the film sports very little film grain. The overall image is immaculate and free or any marks, scratches or blemishes.

Grand Prix is a film that begs to be watched in HD and is a smart card for WB to play during this format duel.

Video: 9/10





Audio:
In addition to the video side of things, Warner has also remastered the original audio track resulting in an upgraded 5.1 soundtrack as well as a Dolby Digital-Plus track although (surprisingly) English mono is not an option.

Considering the age of the film, we shouldn’t expect miracles from the soundtrack, although WB has done an admirable job here. The track is as clean as we could hope for and free of any hiss or other noisy distractions. Most importantly, dialogue is clear and bold – always intelligible.
The dynamics are greater than you might expect and the “upgrade” has afforded the track of a more expansive soundfield – wider, if you will. Don’t expect much from the use of surrounds beyond the basics of atmospheric envelopement. LFE usage is basically non-existent.

Audio: 6.5/10




Special Features:
While there is nothing exclusive to the HD format in terms of special features, Warner has ported over the worthwhile special features from the SD DVD Two Disc Special Edition. They are:

• Pushing the Limit: The Making of Grand Prix is the meat and potatoes of the group which is a documentary that chronicles Frankenheimer’s shenanigans including the conflicts that occurred during the production of the film. Surviving cast-members James Garner and Eva Marie Saint appear and reflect on the tumultuous shoot.
  
  
• Next up is The Style and Sound of Speed which is perhaps my personal favorite feature which pays homage to Saul Bass and his creative work on Grand Prix. As a huge fan of Bass and his accomplishments, the entire film has that “ahead of its time” feel. The acknowledgment of his work here is surprisingly and pleasantly appropriate.
  
  
• Flat Out: Formula One in the Sixties is the first of two features that center around the racing aspect of the film. Here, the history of racing is examined.
  
  
• In Brands Hatch: Chasing the Checkered Flag, the various racetracks utilized in the film are the focal point.
  
  
• Next up is the Theatrical Trailer which shows in pretty good shape.
  
  
• Grand Prix: Challenge of the Champions is a short commercial-like piece which does its best to promote the film and the sport of racing. Dated, but interesting.
  
  Special Features: 4/5
  
  
  **Special Features rated for the quality of supplements, not the quantity. Video and Audio portions will be rated from 0-10. The remainder of the review will continue being rated from 0-5 (similar to SD DVD reviews). Since the ratings are not averaged, the final Overall Rating will be from 0-5.**
  
  
  
  Final Thoughts:
  While I wouldn’t give you the time of day to be front row at Indy 500, Frankenheimer succeeds here by employing likeable and believable characters and avoiding any of the prototypical clichés. Along with camera work that was certainly ahead of its time, the film allows for great character development which, at the end of the day, is the central theme of this film.
  
  If you thought the SD version was terrific, wait till you see the HD DVD. Perhaps not the greatest film to come out of the 60’s, but Grand Prix is certainly one that deserves to be watched – for a number of reasons. That, and the fact the HD presentation is fantastic (not to mention the decent assortment of special features) makes Grand Prix on HD DVD a very easy recommendation.
  
  Overall Rating: 4/5 (not an average)
  
  
  Recommended…!!
  
  
  
  Release Date: September 26th, 2006