Blu-Ray Review: ‘Blue Velvet’ [Criterion Collection]: Criterion releases the definitive edition of David Lynch’s classic surreal neo-noir.

THE FILM:

Among many David Lynch obsessives, Blue Velvet was their entry point into his dreamy oeuvre. It was his first exploration into his obsession with the dark underbelly under polite American society, striking a chord that remains felt throughout pop culture.

While the film was an initial critical and commercial flop, its surreal tendrils took root in many viewers psyches, and its central theme not only inspired Lynch’s television series Twin Peaks (which starred Velvet lead Kyle MacLachlan), but countless other films and TV series .

What’s clear from revisiting the film is that unlike so many classic films where something once shocking is now quaint (see the shower scene from Psycho), is that Lynch’s dark vision of sexual violence is as unnerving as ever, (Dennis Hopper’s deviant misogynist Frank Booth is still frightening) seems sadly timely in the #metoo era.

This makes it the perfect time for Criterion’s new Blu-ray release, set to enrapture a whole new generation of fans.

AUDIO and VIDEO:

Criterion’s release is the most essential edition of the film to date, featuring a stunning 4K digital restoration that adds silken highlights to its rich dark nor cinematography, while its sunny Norman Rockwell on acid scenes pop with new clarity.

Lynch has always had a knack for sound design, and the audio for the film doesn’t disappoint with a cracking 5.1 surround DTS-HD Master Audio track that allows Angelo Badalamenti’s haunting score to soar to new heights, and make the film’s unique patter cut through with clarity. The original 2.0 surround soundtrack is also included.

EXTRAS:

For those who have purchased previous Blue Velvet special editions, it’s the extras that will make many triple dip for Criterion’s release. In addition to ported over featurettes like 2002’s behind-the-scenes doc Mysteries of Love, there is a treasure trove of Criterion exclusives.

“It’s like the song Amazing Grace. The footage was lost but now it’s found.”

One of the biggest highlights is The Lost Footage, 53 minutes of deleted scenes and alternate takes assembled by Lynch himself.

The footage plays in the same order as the film, making it easy to see how it would flow if inserted into the final cut.

While the footage is arresting, Lynch was right to make the cuts, but scenes like the infamous flaming nipple sequence or a dog eating kibble onstage before Dorothy Valens (Isabella Rosellini) performs, shows how Lynch’s fusion of the surreal and banal has been intact since his most humble beginnings.

Another featurette of note is “Blue Velvet” Revisited, a feature-length “meditation” on the making of the film by Peter Braatz, filmed on-set, and its strange and immersive quality compliments Lynch’s feature film.

It’s a Strange World: The Filming of “Blue Velvet,” is a 2019 documentary featuring interviews with crew members and visits to the original filming locations that gives viewers an intimate look at the making of the film, while the 2017 interview with composer Angelo Badalamenti delves into his long-running partnership with Lynch, from their unlikely meeting to their unique synthesis of sound and vision.

Last but not least, are inclusions from Lynch’s autobiography Room to Dream, including an audio excerpt of Lynch discussing his memories of the production, and a deluxe booklet featuring notes from co-author Kristine McKenna.

FINAL VERDICT:

Criterion’s Lynch approved release is a true treat for Lynch obsessives, and one that will prove unlikely to top with subsequent releases. To quote the film’s theme song And the mysteries Of love/Come clear. This is a pristine a transfer as any fan could hope for, and shows how the film has lost none of its staying power.

DIRECTOR-APPROVED SPECIAL EDITION FEATURES