Jean Renoirs Film Noir - The Woman on the Beach Robert Ryan Joan Bennett DVD Review

(aka 'La Femme sur la plage' or 'Desirable Woman')

USA 1947

Captivating and stylized Film Noir from Renoir is deftly delivered with fog-shrouded atmospheres'.

Recuperating coast guard Lieutenant Scott Burnett (Robert Ryan) has his head turned from wholesome fiancé Eve (Nan Leslie) for a non-consummated affair-of-the-heart with comely Peggy Butler (Joan Bennett) wife of a famous painter who is now blind (Charles Bickford). Peggy is held psychological prisoner in the marriage over guilt that she may have caused his blindness so the Lieutenant tries to prove he is faking. The mood is quintessential noir and although the plot is sparse the mysterious atmosphere, performances and overly-powerful score carry the film. One can't help but feel the neurotic aura under the surface of the under-spoken dialogue and meaningful character glances. Both female leads are stunningly attractive and it was interesting to see a young Irene Ryan (yes, Granny from The Beverley Hillbillies!) as the local gadabout. I rank this as a sublime Noir and is highly recommended.

Gary W. Tooze

Poster

Theatrical Release: June 2nd, 1947

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DVD Review: Éditions Montparnasse - Region 2 - PAL

DVD Box Cover		CLICK to order from:
Distribution	Éditions Montparnasse - Region 2 - PAL
Runtime	1:10:42
Video	1.33:1 Aspect Ratio Average Bitrate: 7.1 mb/s PAL 720x576 25.00 f/s
	NOTE: The Vertical axis represents the bits transferred per second. The Horizontal is the time in minutes.
Bitrate:
Audio	English (Dolby Digital 2.0)
Subtitles	French, None
Features	Release Information: Studio: Éditions Montparnasse Aspect Ratio: Original Aspect Ratio 1.33:1 Edition Details: • Serge Bromberg introduction DVD Release Date: March 1st, 2006 Slim, transparent keep case Chapters: 7

Comments:

Although some 'trailing' is exhibited this looks well-above standard for tube viewing. There is some contrast boosting no doubt (minor edge enhancement). Strong grey-scale and detail give a good balance to the image. Audio is very consistent. The French subtitles are removable on-the-fly and there is an introduction (in French only) by Serge Bromberg running about 3 minutes.

I know some critics were indifferent to it - possibly expecting too much from Renoir's reputation but I was very impressed with this film as an excellent film noir. Recommended!

Gary W. Tooze

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