The Film
While biographies about musicians tend to show the highs and lows of the subject, Stars and Stripes Forever is really a foot stomping feel good tale of the famous band leader John Philip Sousa (Clifton Webb) from beginning to end. Based loosely on Sousa's own biography, Marching Alone it shows how the king of the marches attempted to break out of just being a brass band leader to finally embrace it, while still going against conventions of the day. Made in 1952 the film offers little controversy, and despite a short running time of 89 minutes, some segments drag out with the subplot involving Willie Little (Robert Wagner) who joins Sousa's U.S. Marine Band and his semi-secret romance with Lily Becker. The story is thus fairly light but with music that will stay with you for days to come.
The Picture
While nearly 60 years old this film looks quite good, with plenty of eye popping reds, whites and blues. The 1.37:1 presentation is a tad wider than the traditional 1:35:1, but actually feels bigger. The transfer is actually quite impressive considering the age, and generally clear of noticeable distractions. In some cases this gives away that rather limited sets and obvious sound stages that were used for this one, but this one is really more about the music than the visuals.
The Sound
Much can be said for keeping it simple. While the music is bombastic, brassy and just pounding - all of which a good march should be - the soundtrack is presented in mono DTS-HD. Instead of trying to create a fully immersing experience with discrete audio, this is a one channel affair but very full as well. The marches do have a marching effect, while the dialog comes through clear as well.
The Extras
The story is complemented with a few interesting extras, including a bonus feature on the making of the film, a featurette on the man John Philip Sousa, an alternative introduction to the film, pressbook, advertising and still galleries and the original trailer. The two disc package, which contains a DVD version in standard definition, offers a nice slipcase with raised musical transcription. A small addition, but one fans will appreciate. Moreover the 16 page booklet, which offers information on the film's stars, is also a nice addition and a throwback to when pictures like this were really something special.
Final Thoughts
Stars and Stripes Forever is far from the final word on John Philip Sousa and the movie isn't perfect. But the package is good, the film fairly enjoyable and good looking in the process. But again, it is the marches - those famous marches - which is what this one is about!
Product Details
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