Rating summary

Movie		5.0
Video		4.5
Audio		5.0
Extras		4.0
Overall		4.5

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Blu-ray Movie Review

A masterpiece that introduced the world to the great Elia Kazan

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a remarkable cinematic classic which marked the feature-film debut of auteur filmmaker Elia Kazan (East of Eden, On the Waterfront). Based on the beloved novel by the great Betty Smith, the feature-film adaptation was produced by Louis D. Lighton (Wings, Now and Forever). The story explores the lives of a family growing up together around a suburb of Brooklyn, New York.

A unique coming-of-age drama centered upon exploring the life journey of the young Francie Nolan (Dorothy McGuire) as she experiences the ups and downs of life throughout her own youth: from starting to develop a love of reading at the tender age 13 to growing up to be a young lady at 16. Throughout the story, Francie devours books, delves into school, and starts to catch the eye of a charming young man alongside her journey towards adulthood.

The story similarly explores the life of Francie's family tree: brother Neeley Nolan (Ted Donaldson), aunt Sissy (Joan Blondell), and father Johnny Nolan (James Dunn). A close-knit family, the story revolves around their interconnected lives in the grand scheme of the jig-saw puzzle of life. The younger brother is a constant misfit (getting into trouble). Sissy provides love and affection. Her adoring father, Johnny, provides Francie with unending praise.

A Family Tree

The backbone of the film explores their family and the remarkably close relationships each have to one another as they go about their daily lives. The children experience the beauty and struggles of growing up in New York (with the “tree” in the title representing a metaphor for the family itself). The story is set against the backdrop of Irish immigration in to the United States. The theme explores immigration subtly and is an important element to consider (perhaps even more so in modern times).

The production is enhanced by a number of remarkable cinematic achievements: the music score by Alfred Newman (The Greatest Story Ever Told, The Diary of Anne Frank) gives the film a beautiful backdrop that enhances the character-development and the heart of the storytelling. The film is also edited to perfection by the great Dorothy Spencer (Lifeboat, Cleopatra). Each scene feels impeccably crafted and there is never a moment in the film in which it feels like there is a misused frame of film. A brilliant work of editing.

The cinematography by Leon Shamroy (Planet of the Apes, Leave Her to Heaven) is similarly gorgeous with remarkable black and white imagery that creates a feeling of nostalgia throughout the entire film. Creating a sense of warmth and wonderment to the entire production, Shamroy's cinematography was essential in the film feeling like a classic masterpiece that has withstood the test of time with ease. The filmmaking is even more breathtaking as a result.

The art direction by Lyle R. Wheeler (Gone with the Wind, All About Eve) provides the stage necessary for the production to feel vibrant and creative throughout. The backdrop of New York and the turning wheels of city-life beside the family tree are essential elements that are heightened by the rewarding settings and artistic choices in place for the sets and essential production pieces. The costumes by Bonnie Cashin (The House on 92^nd Street, Unfaithfully Yours) similarly impress in spades with quality gowns and wardrobes for the cast.

The screenplay by Tess Slesinger (The Bride Wore Red, Remember the Day) and Frank Davis (Ten Tall Men, The Train) does a solid job of adapting the source-material. While the book is a masterpiece that stands as a singular achievement which the film cannot fully replicate in every regard, the heart and essence of the novel is kept intact. The book explores a lengthier period of time and is perhaps too much for a single film.

Elia Kazan directs with a authenticity rarely seen in the works of first time filmmakers. Given that Kazan is one of the best Hollywood filmmakers of all time, it's no surprise that he makes a grand impression in his first film. The camera-work is exquisite and is so in tune with the requirements necessary to make the storytelling more remarkable and ultimately effective. Kazan clearly gives audiences a demonstration of his mastery of filmmaking right out of the gate. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a masterpiece.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Presented on Blu-ray from distributor Eureka Entertainment as part of the prestigious Masters of Cinema series line, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn has received a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition presentation in the original 1.33:1 full frame aspect ratio. The gorgeous black and white photography looks exceptional throughout the entire film. This is a stunning presentation that has been well restored in every regard. There are no signs of print damage whatsoever. There is some slight filtering on the image but nothing detrimental to enjoying the presentation.

The entire presentation shows no signs of dirt, debris, scratches, burns, and other serious detriments to the print. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn has received a crisp, clear, and well-defined presentation with nice depth and clarity throughout. What a stunning transfer. The encode is similarly impressive with a high bit-rate at 35.40 mbps. Outstanding in every sense, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn has been loving cared for.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The release is presented with an uncompressed PCM 2.0 mono audio presentation. The 24 bit depth lossless audio track is exceptional with excellent audio fidelity and clarity throughout. There are no signs of detrimental pops, clicks, hiss, or damage to the audio track. Dialogue is crisp and clear from beginning to end. The music sounds clear and vibrant. This is not a harsh sounding track at all. Rather, the audio is remarkably clear for a film of its age. The soundstage is not as flashy as a modern film may have but the dynamics of the track are remarkable. A job well done.

Optional English SDH subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing are provided.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Audio Commentary featuring Richard Schickel, Elia Kazan, Ted Donaldson, and Norman Lloyd

The Making of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (SD, 15:24) is a must-see featurette which explores the production of the film with interviews with those involved. The historical significance is similarly discussed. Includes interviews with Ted Donaldson (the actor who performed the part of Neeley Nolan), Richard Schickel (author of "Elia Kazan: A Portrait"), stage director Norman Lloyd, and several clips from archival interviews with director Elia Kazan himself.

An Appreciation of Dorothy McGuire (SD, 9:56) features words by Norman Lloyd about the beloved actress. Lloyd recollects working with her and shares memories that any fan of McGuire will want to hear discussed.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn: Hollywood Star Time – Episode 4 (January 27, 1946) (30:09) is an audio-only radio news program which includes elements relevant to the release of the Kazan classic A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. The radio program plays against the backdrop of occasional still photographs as taken from the production.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

A masterpiece that is necessary viewing for fans of Elia Kazan, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is one of the most underrated gems by the great and legendary director. The performances are exquisite. The production merits are remarkable. The story (as based on the classic novel by Betty Smith) is just as charming as always. The Blu-ray release features a stunning video-audio presentation and a quality selection of absorbing supplements. The release comes highly recommended.