We have seen such films as the life of Jack LaMotta in Ragin' Bull. James J. Braddock in Cinderella Man. Muhammad Ali in The Greatest and Ali. But in 1942 Errol Flynn starred as Indian British boxer James Corbett in Gentlemen Jim. Now Warner Archive is giving this pugilistic classic on Blu-ray!
Set primarily against the backdrop of the 1880's San Francisco, the film follows Jim Corbett's rise from bank clerk to world champion. With his lightning quick punches and dance-like footwork, the glib, cocky Irishman revolutionized the heretofore illegal prizefighting game, elevating it from the bare knuckle brawling to the sport of skill it is today.
As with most biopics there is a lot of creative license in this film. But it is a heartfelt, lighthearted and exciting biopic. Raoul Walsh masterfully directed this amazing biographical drama. He is known for his amazing filmography that included such great films as The Big Trail (John Wayne's first film), The Strawberry Blonde, High Sierra, They died with their boots on.
Errol Flynn (Santa Fe Trail) is at his absolute best in this film. Alexis Smith is sweet as Victoria Ware Jim's sponsor. It is interesting to note that her first feature film credited role was in 1941's Dive Bomber opposite Errol Flynn. In Gentleman Jim she is paired with him again.
The film has an including, Alan Hale (The Adventures of Robin Hood), Ward Bond (It's a Wonderful Life), Jack Carson (Arsenic and Old Lace), William Frawley (I Love Lucy) and Minor Watson (Boys Town) just to name a few.
Gentleman Jim has been transferred to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio soundtrack is a DTS-MA HD 2.0. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
This transfer of Gentleman Jim to Blu-ray is spectacular. The picture is crisp and clean not a sign of damage to the print. We hear the term "in glorious black and white", they must have been talking about this transfer. It is that great! But that is not all that it included on this Blu-ray. Take a look at the bonus features included on this Blu-ray!
* WARNER BROS. CARTOONS
The Dover Boys at Pimento University (1942) Three morally upright brothers who attend Pimento University (P.U.) must save their fiancée from their archenemy, Dan Backslide.
Foney Fables (1942) Classic fairy tales are retold with this wacky twist. We see such retelling of Sleeping Beauty, Tom Thumb, The boy who cried wolf, Jack and the Beanstalk and many more.
Hobby Horse-Laffs (1942) The popular radio program "Hobby Lobby" is spoofed here with blackout gags showcasing people's various hobbies and inventions.
* Lady Esther Screen Guild Playhouse Radio Broadcast with Errol Flynn and Alexis Smith
* Original Theatrical Trailer
Gentlemen Jim is an entertaining feature film. It is filled with action, drama, and a hint of comedy to keep the film bouncy! But the bonus features take this film to a whole other level of cool. The addition of 3 classic cartoons, the trailer and the radio drama. Live the addition of the radio dramas!!! This is a simply amazing release!
So, if you love sports movies or biographical films Gentleman Jim is a rousing drama that you will absolutely be enthralled with. Head over to MovieZyng and order your copy today!
Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) the Blu-ray of Gentleman Jim receives....
 Blu-ray Review ){kind=link}
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