Journey Into Fear (1943) Warner Archive Blu-ray Review

Orson Wells after a successful stage career moved on to radio than to movies. He was a prolific writer and director. He directed such classics as The Magnificent Ambersons, The Stranger, The Lady from Shanghai, and what most film historians consider the greatest film in history Citizen Kane.

In 1943 his next film noir was Journey into Fear. Now 81 years after this film's theatrical release Warner Archive Collection have restored and released this film on Blu-ray for the first time ever. This is wonderful news as a new generations can experience this film noir in HD.

Synopsis: An American gunnery engineer pursued by Gestapo agents. His adventures make him cross paths with an impressive array of characters portrayed by Dolores Del Rio, Ruth Warrick, Agnes Moorehead, Everett Sloane, Hans Conried, and Welles himself, who plays Colonel Haki, head of the Turkish Secret Police.

Even though he is uncredited Orson Wells co-produced this film and co-wrote the screen play star Joseph Cotten. During the development of this picture many actors were tapped to play the lead, including, Orson Wells and surprisingly Fred Astaire. But Joseph Cotten was awarded the role after his performance in Citizen Kane.

Journey Into Fear suffered a box office loss according to RKO records, but that has nothing to do with the quality of this film. Admittedly the film's narrative is a bit confusing, but I wonder if that is not because the studio cut the 90 minute film down to 68 films, according to Wells. 

Even with the short comings Journey into Fear is a thrilling little wartime film noir. And it boasts of a tremendous cast. Joseph Cotten is joined by Ruth Warrick, Everett Sloane, Hans Conried, Orson Welles, Dolores Del Rio and Jack Moss. Journey into Fear while not the strongest film noir will offer a good source of entertainment. 

Journey into fear has been transferred to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in the original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Warner Archive Blu-ray transfer comes from a new 4k scan. did a miraculous job in cleaning up this picture making it look and sound amazing. The picture is as crisp as a brand new 100 dollar bill. QAnd the audio track is super clean. Watching this film noir on Blu-ray is a pleasure.

Orson Wells and his Mercury Theater group preformed many radio productions. Warner Archive has done something here that I think is just great. They have added three radio programs from the Mercury Theater Group. As audio only options you can listen to the programs of Dracula (7/11/1938), Treasure Island (7/18/1938), and A Tale of Two Cities (7/25/1938).

As a fans of old radio programs and a person who works as radio DJ this is an absolute spectacular bonus to this Blu-ray release. The Mercury Theater Group's productions were top notch and to be able to hear these old programs is simply amazing.

Warner Archive really went above the call of duty in this release. The Blu-ray insert feature the original poster art, which is amazing. A simply gorgeous film noir restored and looking better than ever. And not 1, not 2, but 3 radio programs. This Blu-ray is a perfect addition to anyone's film noir Blu-ray collection.

So, if you love the films of Orson Wells, are a fan of film noir Journey into Fear is a must own Blu-ray. Head over to MovieZyng and order your copy today. You won't be disappointed with this stellar release.

Out of 4 films reels (4 being the best) the Blu-ray of Journey into Fear receives.....