In 1950 brought together Gary Cooper, Lauren Bacall and Patricia Neal for western entitled Bright leaf. This year that films is celebrating its 75th birthday. And for that epic of a birthday, we need an epic release. Well, enter Warner Archive Collection for a restoration and Blu-ray release!
Synopsis: Forget cotton. Tobacco is king in the American South of the 1890s. Brant Royle buys and sells tobacco - and plenty of it, building a cigarette-manufacturing empire. But his empire is starting to crumble. Gary Cooper gives iconic presence to the role of Royle, whose drive for wealth and power is fueled by a desire for revenge against the tycoon (Donald Crisp) who earlier brought ruin to his family. Another desire also enflames Royle's heart. He's romantically drawn to the magnate's imperious daughter (Patricia Neal)...and she may have an agenda of her own.
Gary Cooper is a star! He shines in everything he does, but he really seems to stand out in westerns. You want proof of that just watch his performance in High Noon. Bright Leaf after its theatrical run for the most part faded from consciousness and mostly forgotten.
Most feel that this is a film about tobacco. And while yes there is that element and it is undeniable. This is really a film about betrayal and revenge. Micheal Curtiz does a masterful job behind the camera as always. And the performances of Lauren Bacall (The Shootist) and Patrica Neal (They day the Earth Stood Still) really enhance the film.
Warner Archive Collection has transferred Bright leaf to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in the original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio track 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's 4k scan of Bright Leaf really brings crystal clarity to this film. But a gorgeous looking 4k scan is not all this Blu-ray release has going for it. Warner Archive added not one but two Bugs Bunny cartoons from 1950.
Bunker Hill Bunny (1950) Bugs Bunny fight against Sam Von Schamm The Hessian in the American Revolutionary War "Battle of Bagle Heights".
Hillbilly Hare (1950) Bugs Bunny goes on vacation in the Ozark Mountains. While there he encounters Curt and Pumpkinhead Martin, two dimwitted hillbillies who Bugs makes fools of.
For films fan who enjoy historical dramas with a well-crafted story. Or if you a fan of 1950s cinema, Bright Leaf is 110 minutes of entertainment that will defiantly scratch that itch. And if you are looking for the best way to see it. Well, you can't get much better than this new Blu-ray release from Warner Archive. Plus, you get two Bugs Bunny cartoons. Now that is a nice bonus!
If you would like to add Bright Leaf to your home video library head over to Amazon and order your copy. You will be impressed but how great this 75 year old film looks on Blu-ray!
Out of 4 films reels (4 being the best) Warner Archive's Blu-ray of Bright Leaf receives.......
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