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

ADDITION: Kino Blu-ray (July 2021): Kino have transferred Harold Becker's The Black Marble to Blu-ray. It is cited as being from a "4K Restoration from the Original Camera Negative". It can appear soft and even waxy at times but it may have been the lens chosen for the scene of even the less-effective 80's stock. Generally it looks quite nice in 1080P with the grain being a shade clunky, as we have seen from other Hollywood films made at this time. Colors are not particularly deep but there is depth. While a less-remarkable HD presentation, it looks authentic and the image is fairly consistent.

On their Blu-ray, Kino use a DTS-HD Master 2.0 channel track (16-bit) in the original English language. The film has a few aggressive effects and a score by the great Maurice Jarre (Crossed Swords, The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds The Tin Drum, The Man Who Would Be King, The Damned etc.) that has some beautiful suites. Some may note Ochi chyornye (Dark Eyes) written by Florian Hermann and Adalgiso Ferraris. Kino offer optional English subtitles on their Region 'A' Blu-ray.

The Kino Blu-ray offers an older commentary by director Harold Becker - that may have been done in 2003. He talks about his previous work with Joseph Wambaugh, namely The Onion Field. He describes The Black Marble as a 'romantic comedy' while also being a 'black comedy'. He discusses his own early short film, documentary and cinematography work, Wambaugh's books, Dog Shows, the importance of casting, and some of the performances; Robert Foxworth, Paula Prentiss, Harry Dean Stanton etc.. He takes gaps but it is still of interest. There is also a theatrical trailer.      

Harold Becker's The Black Marble is pretty cute involving a cop-romance, a dognapping and the occupational hazards of law enforcement. It's certainly not what you might expect from a Joseph Wambaugh novel adaptation with many dark comedic moments. There are enjoyable characterizations from Paula Prentiss, Harry Dean Stanton, Barbara Babcock and keep your eyes peeled for James Woods. It's amusing but not great. I really like Harold Becker's work - Sea of Love and Malice. The Kino Blu-ray includes the interesting commentary. Those keen on the plot and cast may wish to indulge.

Gary Tooze