Plot: What’s it about?
Amantha Starr (Yvonne De Carlo) thought her life would be a simple one, as her father had wealth and she stood to inherit his estate at some point. In addition to this eventual fortune, Amantha was gorgeous and knew how to get what she wanted, so she seemed to have her life under control. But when her father died, her life was thrown into chaos and she faced a future that wasn’t just unsure, it was brutal. The truth about her heritage was revealed when her father died, the truth being that she had some African blood in her lineage. This was a shock to everyone, especially Amantha, but when her father’s estate was sold, she was considered property and sold as well. The man who bought her is Hamish Bond (Clark Gable), a plantation owner who owns numerous slaves, but treats them well. As time passes, Amantha’s presence arouses more than a little attention from Hamish, as a tension begins to build between the two. As the world moves into change around them, is there a chance for love between a slave and her master and if not, what will become of Hamish’s plantation?
Clark Gable back on the plantation? Yes, Band of Angels has a lot in common with Gone With the Wind, such as the plantation locales, well crafted costumes, and even the presence of Gable. This is not Gone With the Wind however, not even close, despite some similar elements. While that film is considered a classic, Band of Angels is a middle of the road movie that has some moments, but comes up short as a whole. I think the best part of Band of Angels is Yvonne De Carlo, who is so hot it should be illegal, one of the most beautiful cinema sirens of all time. She proves here that while she is a gorgeous creature, she also had the chops to earn her keep beyond her looks. Gable also turns in a solid effort, but his fire burns a little less hot almost twenty years after Gone With the Wind. Also of note is Sidney Poitier, who has a great role here and delivers on all counts. The film also has impressive visuals, between the lush locations and skillful costume work. While not as high end as some period pieces, the production design is above average and adds to the experience. Band of Angels is not a classic, but it is a more than decent movie and De Carlo is reason enough to rent this one.
Video: How does it look?
Band of Angels is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The transfer here is acceptable, but with so many incredible transfers of films from this era, it’s hard not to be disappointed. The print has frequent debris, including grain and the image just doesn’t look clean enough. The visuals have decent detail, but the image just isn’t that sharp and some softness is evident, usually due to the grain and debris. I did find the colors to be effective, with bright, but natural hues, while contrast is stark and consistent, so no worries there. As I said, this is a reasonably good transfer, but we’ve been spoiled by so many incredible treatments, this one winds up as a slight let down.
Audio: How does it sound?
The included mono option is no frills, but it covers the basics and in this case, that is enough to warrant a solid score. The elements are in good form here, no signs of distortion in the least to report. This is not the kind of movie that relies on intense sound effects, but the elements sound as good as possible, which is about all we can ask, I think. No issues in terms of dialogue either, as vocals sound clean and clear at all times. This disc also includes a French language track, as well as English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes the film’s theatrical trailer.
