In 1933 he directed Paul Lukas, Elissa Landi and Nils Asther in By Candlelight. Now KL Studio Classics are giving this James Whale film a Blu-ray release from a 4K restoration.
Josef (Paul Lukas, The Kiss Before the Mirror) is the ultra-dutiful butler to a Casanova-like prince (Nils Asther, The Bitter Tea of General Yen). Falling in love with Marie (Elissa Landi, The Sign of the Cross), whom he assumes to be a countess, Josef masquerades—quite convincingly—as his rakish master. The catch: Marie is herself a poseur, a mere maidservant of nobility.
The film is based on P.G. Wodehouse’s (Anything Goes) adaptation of a Siegfried Geyer play. The film is a romantic comedy of seduction and infidelity. This film would have never seen the light of day after the enforcement of the censorship guidelines of the Motion Picture Production Code.
Now while By Candlelight may not be James Whale's best film, it should by no means be dismissed. James Whale was brought onto the picture later in pre-production. He brought his amazing vision to this film. It should be noted that the subject matter if watched through 2022 woke eyes will be ultra offensive. But if you take it as a film from yesteryears you truly will enjoy it.
This classic has been digitally restored by Universal Pictures in 4K from 35mm Original Film Elements. It has been transferred in 1080p in 1.37:1 aspect ratio the audio is a DTS-HD 2.0 with the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
This new 4K restoration is absolutely beautiful. In comparison to a previous DVD this new transfer is head and shoulders above that release. The picture is crisp and clean and the audio is clear. I am blown away by the quality of this restoration.
Now KL Studio Classics added some cool bonus features take a look at what is included on this Blu-ray.
* NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historian Troy Howarth
Troy covers so much territory in this commentary including production history and major players behind the scenes. I recommend this commentary very much.
* Trailers: The Sign of the Cross (1932), The Ghost Breakers (1940), I’m No Angel (1933), Four Frightened People (1934), and Supernatural (1933).
As you can see with the new 4K restoration and the insightful commentary this new Kino Lorber Blu-ray is a must own for James Whale fans. It is highly recommended.
If you are a fan of Pre-Code Hollywood films or if you were disappointed with the DVD release. Defiantly check out this new Blu-ray from Kino Lorber you will not be disappointed with this one. 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 By Candlelight receives...
 KL Studio Classics Blu-ray){kind=link}
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