Rating summary

Movie		4.0
Video		4.0
Audio		4.0
Extras		3.0
Overall		4.0

Line of Demarcation Blu-ray Movie Review

A strong exploration of the human spirit.

Line of Demarcation is an intriguing suspense-thriller which is centered around World War II. Based on the acclaimed novel by Colonel Rémy, the French production explores how France was affected by the Nazi occupation. Produced by Georges de Beauregard (Breathless, Contempt), the feature is a unique effort exploring the horrors of war and one that fans of international cinema will admire.

Pierre (Maurice Ronet) is a military officer who has recently been set free by Nazi's to return home. The home town is a small community within the Jura Mountains which rests at the border between Nazi-occupied France and a Free Zone. Upon returning home, Pierre finds that the community has become occupied by the German Nazi's and things are not as they once were. His wife, Mary (Jean Seberg), a schoolteacher, has decided to join the Nazi resistance. Mary joins local activists in helping Nazi prison escapees across the border and in to the free zone. Can the free zone be reached before it is too late?

The performances give some dramatic weight to the production. Maurice Ronet is impressive as Pierre – as is Jean Seberg as Mary. The duo provide the film with an impressive sense of depth. Exploring the complexities of the human spirit, Line of Demarcation is enhanced by these performances. The actors work well together to form a compelling cinematic experience on a serious subject.

A powerful story.

The cinematography by Jean Rabier (The Proud Ones, Pleasure Party) is striking. The black and white cinematography looks splendid. The visual element of the filmmaking helps the story feel far more involving and compelling. Given the dark tones of the storytelling, the black-and-white aesthetic certainly seems appropriate. The end result is a drama (with thriller aspects) that shines.

The music score composed by Pierre Janen (Blue Panther, Les Biches) is another fantastic component of the production. The score gives tension and heart to the cinematic experience. As the story keeps turning towards its conclusion, the music is there to heighten the visuals.

Written for the screen and directed by Claude Chabrol (Story of Women, La Cérémonie), Line of Demarcation is an outstanding cinematic achievement. The film explores war in a unique way: focusing on an element at play during the time- period in which events unfolded in France. A compelling production, Chabrol brings forth strong performances from his cast and works well alongside his collaborators – including editor Jacques Gaillard (The Champagne Murders, Les Bonnes Femmes). The end result is a satisfying film that world cinema enthusiasts should consider seeking out.

Line of Demarcation Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on Blu-ray from Kino, Line of Demarcation is presented in 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition in the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.66:1 widescreen. The release is downright stunning. The presentation has received a brand new 4K restoration. The black and white cinematography looks exceptional. The image quality on the release is clean and free from any issues with print damage or scratches. An amazing looking scan that delivers exactly what film enthusiasts desire most: an engaging, beautifully restored, and faithful presentation.

Line of Demarcation Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The Blu-ray release is presented in French DTS HD Master Audio mono (with English subtitles). The audio track is impressive and manages to be a good match to the high-quality video-presentation. The entire sound presentation is effective at handling the sound design: the dialogue consistently impresses with clear definition and absorbing clarity. The entire track is in good condition and manages to make the experience all the more absorbing for listeners. Fans will be pleased.

Line of Demarcation Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Audio Commentary by Film Historian Samm Deighan

The release also includes a selection of trailers promoting other releases available from distributor Kino Lorber: The Champagne Murders (SD, 2:29), Razzia Sur La Chnouf (HD, 3:03), Alphaville (HD, 1:21), and Leon Morin, Priest (HD, 3:16).

Line of Demarcation Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Line of Demarcation is an intelligent, thought-provoking, and compelling work of art. There is something profound about the film. The storytelling is tense and relevant from start to finish. The Blu-ray features an outstanding 4K restoration of the film that any fan should consider essential. Kino has done an amazing job bringing this title to North America. Don't miss it.