THE MOVIE

Inside the rock called Alcatraz they tried to chain a volcano they called "The Bird Man"!

How does bitter convict Richard Stroud cope with a lifetime of solitary confinement? The answer, in a sense, comes from above - in the form of a feeble sparrow he finds in the isolation yard. Stroud brings his newfound companion to his cell, nurses it to health and, from that point on, there's no turning back. Despite having only a third grade education and no hope of parole, Stroud becomes a renowned ornithologist - and achieves a greater sense of freedom and purpose behind prison walls than many in the outside world will ever know.

One of the finest prison pictures ever made, this inspirational and compelling classic from director John Frankenheimer stars Burt Lancaster in an Oscar-nominated performance as Stroud - the convict who, in his power to heal birds, finds the power to heal himself.

THE TRANSFER

Video:

The image is presented in 1.66:1 widescreen and isn’t enhanced. Given its age Birdman has held up pretty well and this transfer isn’t very taxing on the eyes. The image is sharp and clear with plenty of detail on offer.

The black and white is nice and clear while not deteriorating into grey. Obviously it doesn’t have the clear definition of modern black and white footage it is pretty good. Shadow detail is also adequate.

Film artefacts are present but not to a great extent.

A pretty good transfer.

Audio:

There are five audio tracks on this DVD all 2.0. We get English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. The audio isn’t dynamic and is pretty much what you would expect from this film. Dialogue is clear and audible and while there are no syncing issues it is a little flat due to it’s source.

Pretty straightforward.

THE EXTRAS

The only extra is a trailer.

SUMMARY

Although the back covers claim that this is one of the finest prison movies ever made may be a little over exuberant there is no denying that this is indeed a fine piece of cinema and a wonderful story.

Proficiently made and telling an interesting story this film has all the right ingredients and despite its lengthy running time it is a worthwhile cinematic experience.

The DVD is what you would expect, if a little more and only serves to compliment the film well.