The Tall Target (1951) Warner Archive Blu-ray Review

Abraham Lincoln is considered by most to be the greatest president in American history. His tragic assassination rocked America at the time. Many years after the assassination films were being made about Lincoln. A few years ago Warner Archive released on Blu-ray Abe Lincoln in Illinois. In 1951 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) brought the world a film noir about the plot to assassinate Lincoln entitled "The Tall Target".

It is hard to believe The Tall Target is heading towards it 75th birthday. But before it hits that milestone Warner Archive Collection has decided to give The Tall Target a Blu-ray release for the 74th year of its release. Now film fans that love historical films can add this MGM classic to their collections.

Synopsis: Former police officer John Kennedy doesn't have a ticket, but he's determined to stay aboard the overnight train rolling from New York to Washington, D.C. He's convinced that someone -- or someones -- among the passengers intends to kill newly-elected President Abraham Lincoln when the train stops in Baltimore. The true-life "Baltimore Plot" provides the inspiration for this M-G-M thriller. 

Anthony Mann known for directing film noirs and westerns and his unique fingerprints are found all over this film noir. Dick Powell is stellar in his role as officer Kennedy. In addition, there is the wonderful talents of Paula Raymond (Days of our Lives) and Adolphe Menjou (A Star is Born). 

Even though we know the history that this assassination attempt will not be successful. Anthony Mann weaves an exciting and impactful tale with tons of tension. The film was not a box office success, but it is a wonderful historical tale and should be more known than it is.

Warner Archive Collection have transferred The Tall Target to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio track is a DTS-HD Master Audio English 2.0. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Warner Archive Collection has done another remarkable job with this film noir. The picture black and white picture is crisp and clean. There is no damage that I noticed, and the audio is clear with no hiss or pops. This Blu-ray makes a great viewing experience for this film.

Now in addition to a simply beautiful film transfer, Warner Archive Collection has added some very cool bonus features to this release. Take a look at what is included. 

* The Radio broadcast of Mr. President with Edward Arnold from March 6, 1949 
*  M-G-M cartoons
- Jerry's Cousin (1951) Jerry is tired of Tom's harassment, so he calls his cousin Muscles for help.
- Slicked-up Pup (1951) Spike just gave Tyke a bath, Tom accidentally knocks Tyke into the mud. Now Spike makes Tom clean him up and keep him clean, which Jerry tries to mess up! 
* Original Theatrical Trailer.

The addition of cartoons from the same year is always cool and as a huge fan of radio and a radio DJ myself, the addition of a classic radio program always thrills me. Warner Archive really put together some nice bonuses here. Thus, increasing the cool factor.

If you love film noir and historical dramas the Tall Target is the best of both worlds. And the best way to witness this film is on this Blu-ray release from Warner Archive. head over to MovieZyng or Amazon and order your copy today.

Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) Warner Archive's Blu-ray release of The Tall Target receives....

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