NOTE: The below Blu-ray captures were taken directly from the Blu-ray disc.

ADDITION: Indicator Blu-ray (October 2021): Indicator have transferred Joseph Sargent's bio-pic MacArthur to Blu-ray. It is on a dual-layered disc with a very high bitrate. It has some green-leaning in the interiors which we can presume is part of the source. Overall another solid Indicator transfer - it looks about as good as it can in this 1080P format with both authentic, true, colors and their hallmark contrast. It's clean and this Blu-ray provides a consistent, highly pleasing, HD presentation.

Also included is the UK version. MacArthur was released in British cinemas in 1978 as MacArthur: The Rebel General and featured a number of differences when compared to the US Theatrical Cut, most notably a unique scene in which MacArthur meets Emperor Hirohito. Some UK VHS editions presented a variant on the UK Theatrical Cut which including minor changes to the music. The presentation is here on this Indicator Blu-ray in 1080P, lossy Dolby, cropped (1.33:1), with optional English (SDH) subtitles, sourced from an original UK VHS edition. Comparisons captures are below.

NOTE: We have added 50 more large resolution Blu-ray captures (in lossless PNG format) for DVDBeaver Patrons HERE

On their Blu-ray, Indicator give the option of a linear PCM mono track or a DTS-HD Master 5.1 surround track - both 24-bit, in the original English language. The latter bump is likewise found on the 2017 Universal Blu-ray available HERE. It exports adroit separations from the rear channels - purists will appreciate the mono inclusion. MacArthur has battle sequences that carry depth and a wonderful score by the great Jerry Goldsmith (Lilies of the Field, The Culpepper Cattle Co., The Burbs, Seconds, Hoosiers, The Blue Max, Breakheart Pass, Link, Breakout, The Salamander, The Mephisto Waltz, Seconds, The Omen) sounding subtle and contemplative to intense and dire - dependent on the scene - via the effective lossless transfer. Indicator offer optional English (SDH) subtitles on their Region 'B' Blu-ray.

Like Midway, the Indicator Blu-ray includes a new commentary by Steve Mitchell and Steven Jay Rubin (author of Combat Films: American Realism, 1945-2010.) These guys are the go-to pair for a commentary of a war-related genre film. They discuss the Albert Whitlock matte paintings used in the film, how Peck is stupendous in the role, others considered for playing the lead, the extensive cast support, the military equipment seen in MacArthur and much more. General Disposition is from 2004 and runs 5-minutes with director Joseph Sargent recalling his time working with Gregory Peck. There are also a selection of Pathé newsreels capturing events portrayed in the film: A Tribute to MacArthur (1942, 3 mins), MacArthur in Australia (1942, 1 min), MacArthur Returns to Philippines (1944, 5 mins), MacArthur Steps Down (1951, 2 mins), MacArthur Addresses Congress (1951, 6 mins), and MacArthur Honored on 75th Birthday (1955, 1 min), an original theatrical trailer, radio spots and an image gallery: promotional and publicity material. The package has a limited edition exclusive 36-page booklet with a new essay by Robert Matzen, archival articles on the film and events that inspired its screenplay, an overview of critical responses, and film credits. 

Joseph Sargent's MacArthur is an engrossing bio-pic. There are inaccuracies but the general tone and less exacting details make for a welcome viewing experience. It's one of Gregory Peck's favorite roles and films! The Indicator Blu-ray is at their massively high standards. It includes a solid HD a/v, a well-informed commentary, the UK version curiosity, a booklet and more. Fans of the General, war-genre or military buffs will find MacArthur rewarding. Recommended!

Gary Tooze