The Organizer
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Synopsis
In turn-of-the-twentieth-century Turin, an accident in a textile factory incites workers to stage a walkout. But it’s not until they receive unexpected aid from a traveling professor (Marcello Mastroianni) that they find their voice, unite, and stand up for themselves. This historical drama by Mario Monicelli, brimming with humor and honesty, is a beautiful and moving ode to the power of the people, and features engaging, naturalistic performances; cinematography by the great Giuseppe Rotunno; and a multilayered, Oscar-nominated screenplay by Monicelli, Agenore Incrocci, and Furio Scarpelli.
Picture 9/10
Mario Monicelli’s The Organizer receives a lovely new 1080p/24hz high-definition transfer presented on Blu-ray by Criterion, the film presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 on a dual-layer disc. It’s not at all surprising the transfer looks good but I was still a little shocked at the levels it was able to reach. Short of a few minor (and I mean minor) source imperfections—small bits of dirt, mild flickering—this looks fairly pristine. The image remains crisp and clean, delivering rich, distinct textures, and rarely goes fuzzy. Grain is rendered perfectly, gray levels are strong and distinct, and shadow delineation is good. If I had one minor quibble about the digital transfer itself it’s that whites look to be boosted a bit in a couple of scenes; there were scenes where I wasn’t sure if what I was seeing on the ground was snow or dirt simply because it could look to be blown out. But past this issue and the minor imperfections this looks stunning.
The Organizer - Screen Captures
Audio 6/10
It’s a fairly average lossless PCM 1.0 mono track with clear dialogue and decent music, but it really only has one flat level, lacking depth and range. No problems with background noise or damage, though.
Extras 2/10
As what can be called a budget release the supplements to be had are slight. The only significant supplement is a brief 10-minute interview with director Mario Monicelli, which was actually recorded by Criterion in 2006. I’m not sure as to why there was such a long delay, but Monicelli talks about what drew him to the subject matter of the film, what differentiates an Italian comedy (or commedia all’Italiana) from other types of comedies (the big difference is that they’re usually more tragic,) and then goes over the casting a little and shooting on location. It’s a fine enough interview with the director, though incredibly brief. I’m hoping Criterion shot a longer interview with the man that could possibly show up on other releases.
The disc then closes with the film’s American theatrical trailer. J. Hoberman then provides the essay found in the insert.
I wish there was more but I guess I can’t say I’m surprised considering it’s a lower tier release. In that case I’m glad Criterion at least included the interview with the director, which is a fine addition in and of itself.
Closing
A solid little budget release from Criterion, featuring a sharp digital transfer and at least one half decent supplement. It comes highly recommended for those looking to own the film.
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