Medium Cool (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

Criterion Blu-Ray Looks Great and Loaded with Extras!
Medium Cool has never looked better on this newly minted Criterion Collection Blu-Ray. The colors look vivid while the transfer still retains the texture of the original film stock.

There is an audio commentary by director Haskell Wexler, editor Paul Golding, and actor Marianna Hill. Wexler addresses the criticism of the opening scene and how the two journalists don't help the accident victim. He mentions being faced with that decision several times in his career. All three praise Harold Blankenship's performance and how real it is. Wexler and Golding point out that during the protest scene at the end, tear gas was really shot at them, but the famous line, "Look out Haskell, it's real!" was added later.

Also included is a commentary by historian Paul Cronin who examines the origins and production of Medium Cool. He expertly analyzes the film's themes while also delving into what led Wexler to make it. Cronin points out that Wexler paid for the film himself and...

Cool
This film was at the time of its release overshadowed by Easy Rider. But this film was not only a brave experiment by Haskell Wexler, it was an accurate representation of the times. The improvised dialog captured the concerns of the people and filming in the actual riot was incredible. A very good document of the times.

A near-flawless Blu-ray from Criterion
Those familiar with Criterion DVDs and Blu-rays know about the company's commitment to quality, so this new edition of Haskell Wexler's "Medium Cool" won't disappoint. The video is sourced from a new 4K master, so the detail and stability of Wexler's 16mm and 35mm footage is second to none. The mono audio sounds great too, and give credit to Criterion for not attempted a faux remix.

The special features, by and large, are some of the best I've seen from Criterion. Not only to we get an older 2001 audio commentary with Wexler and company, but the studio also commissioned a new commentary with historian Paul Cronin. Together, they provide a lot of context for those who don't know some of the real stories behind the scenes. We also get a handful of documentary excerpts, including a brief reunion with the actor who plays young Harold in the film. Together, these extras are almost as compelling as the main feature.

This is one of Criterion's very best releases...

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