The Naked Kiss
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Synopsis
The setup is pure pulp: A former prostitute relocates to a buttoned-down suburb, determined to fit into mainstream society. But in the strange, hallucinatory territory of writer/director/producer Sam Fuller, perverse secrets simmer beneath a seemingly wholesome facade. Criterion is proud to present The Naked Kiss in a beautiful widescreen transfer.
Picture 4/10
The Naked Kiss, Samuel Fuller's incredibly fun pulp film, first appeared on DVD through the Criterion Collection on this single-layer disc, presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1. It has not been enhanced for widescreen televisions.
The digital transfer found here (more than likely ported from what would have been their laserdisc transfer) is a step up from the companion release, Shock Corridor, but not my much. Contrast seems to be a little better here, making halos and edge-enhancement less of a distraction, though it's still present. But the image is almost always soft, even on close-ups (though this could be intentional) and long shots are still a fairly blurry digital mess. Jaggies are noticeable, and noise rears its ugly head occasionally, more noticeable when you zoom in on a widescreen televisions.
The print used for this transfer looks to be in better shape than what was used for Shock Corridor but it still has scratches here and there which can get heavy a few times. Ultimately it's a weak transfer but a bit better than what was found on the original DVD for Shock Corridor.
Audio 4/10
While not awful it's not the most exciting mono track. Dialogue is easy to hear and despite some louder (and harsher) moments with the music this aspect comes off flat and plain. Still, not as irritating as the Shock Corridor mono track.
Extras 1/10
Like Shock Corridor this disc comes with only a theatrical trailer, which is at least fun. Michael Dare also writes an essay about the film and Fuller, which appears in the enclosed insert.
Closing
Another "meh" edition for a film that deserves better. Thankfully, like with Shock Corridor, Criterion is re-releasing the film on DVD and Blu-ray with a new transfer and more supplements.
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