New DVD Collection Features "The Stranger"

[Roger Ryan]

I read a positive review this morning in the Detroit Free Press of a new DVD collection called "Killer Classics" from Questar. Included among the five public domain noir films featured is Welles' "The Stranger". I have no idea whether this transfer is any better than previous ones, but the review emphasized that the overall quality was acceptable and that the bonus documentary on noir films was a good one. More info can be found at Amazon.com.

[Wilson]

I read that review also; I can't imagine the quality is better than what's already out there, but one never knows.

[R Kadin]

I quite like the Roan Group's "Stranger/Cause for Alarm" DVD, as it is (although I sure wouldn't turn my nose up at a good documentary on film noir). The image quality is very good; the sound is, too. And the decision to pair up the two films is well-considered.

Revisiting it again recently, I must say that I had almost forgotten The Stranger's marvellously-choreographed opening scenes. The Wellesian play of light and shadow across sets almost impressionistically akilter was a delight to behold. And there are lots more little moments that can sometimes be unduly discounted thanks to the studio-dictated, formulaic structure of the film.

And, forgive me, but every now and then it sure is nice to see a Welles film with the dialogue in sync.