Get Carter (1971) - Blu-ray Analysis

      Get Carter, 1971.

      Directed by Mike Hodges.

      Featuring Michael Caine, Ian Hendry, John Osborne, and Britt Ekland.

      SYNOPSIS:

      If you're a fan of this film, you might want to hold off for a few days to get the upcoming 4K Ultra HD edition, which will feature a new 4K restoration by the British Film Institute along with a substantial collection of extras. The Blu-ray discussed in this review is a re-release of the 2014 edition, which only includes a commentary track.

      This was my first experience with Mike Hodges’ 1971 classic, Get Carter, and it certainly lived up to expectations. I have always appreciated Michael Caine’s charming persona, and it shines brightly in this film.

      He portrays Jack Carter, who is involved with two gangsters in London but returns to his hometown of Newcastle after his brother, Frank, passes away in what is described as a drunk-driving incident. Despite warnings to avoid creating trouble, Jack suspects there’s something amiss with the official explanation and begins investigating what truly happened.

      Jack's quest brings him into contact with former acquaintances and ultimately leads him to the residence of local crime lord Cyril Kinnear (John Osborne). This poses a risk due to the potential conflict between his bosses and Kinnear, but he is also romantically involved with one of his boss's girlfriends and plans to escape with her to South America after he's finished.

      As he continues his investigation, he becomes increasingly entrenched in the dark dealings of the Newcastle mob, pushing the narrative towards a bleak conclusion that likely set the tone for 1970s cinema. While Star Wars emerged in 1977, the lead-up to that film was populated with movies like this, both in the United States and Europe.

      Upon its release 54 years ago, Get Carter received mixed reviews but has since developed a cult following. Notably, strong endorsements from Quentin Tarantino and Guy Ritchie have prompted a reevaluation of the film. If you are uncomfortable with amoral characters, this might not be the film for you. Otherwise, it's definitely worth watching.

      I understand this Blu-ray is a reissue of the one released by Warner Bros. in 2014. A new 4K Ultra HD edition is set to be released soon, so it could be worth waiting for that if this review piqued your interest. It will include a Blu-ray as well and, notably, will feature the 2022 4K restoration done by the British Film Institute, marking its U.S. debut.

      The new edition will also come with various bonus features, in contrast to this edition, which only offers a commentary track featuring Michael Caine, director Mike Hodges, and cinematographer Wolfgang Suschitsky. These three were recorded separately, so their insights mainly reflect their individual contributions to Get Carter. This commentary was also included in the 2000 DVD release, concluding any historical reflections in the late 90s.

      As one might expect, Caine talks about his career at that point and why he accepted the role. Hodges provides an overall perspective on the production, mentioning the tensions between Caine and co-star Ian Hendry (who plays Jack’s old associate Eric Paice), which inadvertently enhanced the film since their characters are at odds. Suschitsky discusses his lighting choices and more.

      A trio of trailers completes the disc.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Brad Cook