Flower Drum Song (1961) {KL Studio Classics Blu-ray Review}

Reviewed by Jason Lockard

Roger and Hammerstein are responsible for some of the greatest musicals in cinema history including, The King and I, Sound of Music, Oklahoma, Carousel, State Fair and South Pacific. Watching a Rogers and Hammerstein film is enjoying a cinematic experience. 

Another Roger and Hammerstein classic is getting a Blu-ray release. Thanks to the good folks at Kino Lorber under the division of KL Studio Classics Flower Drum Song is getting a chance to shine in HD.  

Chinese immigrant Mei Li (Miyoshi Umeki, Sayonara) travels to San Francisco's Chinatown to marry nightclub boss Sammy Fong (Jack Soo, Barney Miller), but little does she know that he wants to marry showgirl Linda Low (Nancy Kwan, The world of Susie Wong). When she arrives Sammy pawns her off on wealthy Master Wang (Benson Fong, The Love Bug) to be the fiancée for his son, Wang Ta (Victor Sen Yung, Bonanza). Mei Li falls in love with Wang, but he wants to marry Linda as well. What is a girl to do?

Now many might say that this film is very dated and even stereotypical for this generation and I can see how some might say that. But I feel people can be very shortsighted. This film is a snapshot of another generation and in my opinion is essential film viewing.

I really enjoyed this an amazing Roger and Hammerstein musical. As with all Rogers and Hammerstein musicals, the music is the star. No wonder it deservedly was nominated for 5 Academy Awards. The music is exceptional and the acting is great. The film was expertly directed by Henry Koster, My Man Godfrey).

The film has been remastered in 2K and transferred in 1080p in 2.35:1 aspect ratio. There are two audio options 2.0 stereo and 5.1 surround sound. The is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Now watching this new 2K master is like seeing a brand new 2022 release. The colors are truly eye catching. The picture is sharp and the audio is clear. To say I was impressed with this remaster would be an understatement.

But Kino Lorber didn't stop at a stunning looking 2K Master. They added some really cool bonuses features to this Blu-ray release. Take a look at what is included on this set.


* Audio Commentary by Star Nancy Kwan with Film Historian Nick Redman

* A Classic Evolves: From Print to Stage to Screen

* Faces of the East: Casting Flower Drum Song

* The Songs of Flower Drum Song

* ENJOY BEING A GIRL to the East-meets-West classic CHOP SUEY, experience the wonder of these dazzling musical numbers

* An All-Access Pass to the Sets and Costumes of Flower Drum Song 

* The Legacy of Rodgers & Hammerstein

* Theatrical Trailer (Newly Mastered in 2K)

Watch The Trailer



As an avid collector of musicals this new Blu-ray of the Rogers and Hammerstein classic Flower Drum Song is getting a place of prominence. It is that good of a release. I think classic musical fans are going to want to add this tp their collections as well.

If you love Rogers and Hammerstein musicals as much as I do you are going to want to add this Kino Lorber Blu-ray of Flower Drum Song. Head over to Amazon and order your copy today.

 Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) KL Studio Classics Blu-ray release of Flower Drum Song receives...