ADDITION: (November 2014) Warner Archive Region FREE - Blu-ray: We get the classic The Picture of Dorian Gray in 1080P by the Warner Archive. It advances upon their 2008 DVD, perhaps not as much as one would hope - but still improved in the areas of contrast, detail and a smidgeon more information in the frame. Actually the very few color scenes, in HD, tend to look the most superior but overall the texture and slight sense of depth give it a more film-like appearance.

Audio gets an appreciated bump as well via a DTS-HD Master 2.0 channel mono track at 2017 kbps. The score by Herbert Stothart (Mrs. Miniver) sounds dramatic and adds to the atmosphere - sounding very tight via the uncompressed. There are optional English subtitles on the Region FREE Blu-ray disc.

Same extras as last DVD with rewarding commentary by Angela Lansbury and historian Steve Haberman and the two, Oscar winning, shorts - one a Tom and Jerry cartoon. The Blu-ray also has a trailer.

It remains an intriguing and haunting film experience and, even more-so, in 1080P. Those who have not seen this vintage gem should pick this up, but double-dippers may pause. To each his own. 

***

ON THE DVDs: ADDITION: Warner's new Portrait of Dorian Gray eclipses the older French edition in quite a few areas.

Contrast is more pure - the PAL edition had a faded sepia tone at times. The, rare, times color is utilized the NTSC edition shows dramatic improvement (see below) with richer, deeper, and more accurate hues. The French edition looks a shade brightened and may be marginally less sharp. The PAL edition may also be horizontally compressed a shade. Overall the new Warner edition is the winner on the visual front.

I didn't note extensive audio differences although one is mono and the other 2.0 channel stereo but for those sensitive to PAL speedup may not the slightly higher tones from Angela Lansbury.

Extras go the way of the new release with a wonderful, relaxed commentary with Angela Lansbury and historian Steve Haberman. The latter sure know his stuff and I'm amazed at how ageless Lansbury sounds with excellent recollection of the film production. It was a real slice of enjoyable listening. There are also two shorts (one a cartoon) and a theatrical trailer. Frankly, I think you'd have to be crazy not to get this for $12. VERY highly recommended!   

ON THE PAL RELEASE: This dual-layered DVD from France looks exceptionally good. Detail and contrast are quite strong but some artifacts still show through.  Thankfully the French subtitles are totally removable. The mono audio was clear and consistent. There are no extras but this has great value for the price. There is a very real 'Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde' intonation with this classic film and it is quite impacting considering the melodrama and the time it was made. I was pretty blown away by it and am very glad it was recommended to me - I give the same nod to you! 

Gary W. Tooze