Rating summary

Movie		4.5
Video		3.5
Audio		4.5
Extras		3.0
Overall		4.0

The Ring Blu-ray Movie Review

A one-two punch of drama and romance from the great Alfred Hitchcock

The Ring is one of the earliest Alfred Hitchcock productions (and was released in 1927, the same year of The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog). The film is a charming and entertaining drama which is important as one of the best early works from the gifted auteur director. A quietly moving gem.

Jack Sander (Carl Brisson) is known as the “One Round” Jack for a reason: the boxer is an expert in the ring. A “king of the boxers” (so to speak), Jack has a strong passion for boxing. The ring acts as a vessel for his dreams. Going up against another opponent, Bob Corby (Ian Hunter), the big lead in the ring comes to a potential halt when faced with defeating the new-guy.

As it turns out, the new guy isn't so new after all: an apparent master boxer (of the Australian boxing ring), the suspense of the match continues to develop to brand new heights. As the fighting ensues between the two men, the story explores the characters in and out of the ring. Jack's lovely girlfriend, Mabel (Lillian Hall-Davis), begins to feel torn between the affections of the two fighters. An immense drama of complicated romance and in-the-ring strength ensues. Which boxer will become victorious: winning the match and winning the heart of the beautiful Mabel?

"One round Jack? More like one-punch, Jack!"

The production has some fantastic elements for an early silent production. The feature has impressive cinematography by Jack E. Cox (The Lady Vanishes, The Adventures of Tartu) and art direction by C. Wilfred Arnold (The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog, Konga). The film feels like a higher-budget production for a silent-era film, and Hithcock knows how to make the match in the ring a compelling experience. The piano score by composer Meg Morley (Spoken English) adds to the sense of rhythm behind the story and keeps us engaged.

Written and directed by Alfred Hitchcock (Psycho, The Birds), The Ring doesn't showcase the traditional suspense elements that one identifies with the great filmmaker. The closest element is the “suspense” over the match fights and who will win. Nonetheless, Hitchcock makes the most of his screenplay and the energy on display in this classic silent film is impressive.

Though some scenes display culturally insensitive elements which are worth mentioning (and should be remembered within the context of the time-frame in which the film was originally produced), The Ring is still a largely entertaining production and one which showcases the early promise of a gifted filmmaker. Hitchcock fans should take note.

The Ring Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on Blu-ray from distributor Kino Lorber, Alfred Hitchcock's The Ring is presented in a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition presentation. The film has received a generally impressive black and white presentation which will satisfy viewers. Though the scan shows signs of wear with frequent scratches to the print throughout, the overall clarity on display is excellent and satisfactory given the age and condition of the elements. While the transfer might not be the best presentation in the collection, it's a clear improvement with high-definition clarity.

The film looks naturally cinematic (with no signs of DNR) and the rich imagery of Alfred Hitchcock shines. The finale is exciting with the boxing scene having excellent depth and detail. If there is any major criticism, it's that black levels are average and have a grayish tone. There are also occasional minor specks of damage on the print as well. All said, an imperfect but highly engaging transfer of The Ring that will impress most viewers.

The Ring Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio score sounds superbly rendered. The lossless audio is enticing and beautifully reproduces the piano score music accompanying the silent film presentation. This is a serene accompaniment to the film that brings a sense of perfection to the experience. There are no issues with crackle, hiss, pops, or clicks on the track. An outstandingly clear and vibrant soundtrack.

The Ring Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Audio Commentary by Film Critic Nick Pinkerton

Hitchcock/Truffaut: Archival Audio Interview (The Ring/The Farmer's Wife) (SD, 7:33) is an engaging listen between the two iconic filmmakers as the medium is discussed. Accompanied by photographs presented in a slide-show style rendering, the audio-track is a must-listen for true Hitchcock enthusiasts hoping to glimmer some extra insights from the maestro filmmaker.

The Ring Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Entertaining, action-packed, and surprisingly comedic, The Ring is an interesting example of the growing talents of a young Hitchcock (even if the film doesn't prelude the masterful suspense eventually to come). With excellent performances and a strong music score, The Ring is a classic worth experiencing. Take a bet on it. Highly recommended.