Plot: What’s it about?
Major Jock Sinclair (Alec Guinness) is brash, strong willed man who loves to drink his booze and bond with his fellow soldiers. Sinclair didn’t come from a wealthy home or traditional military family, but he has been enlisted in Scotland’s armed forces his entire life. He now commands a battalion of loyal men, whom he expects the world from. He wants his soldiers to respect him and be as loyal as possible, which is usually the case. He has a short temper and is as stubborn as can be, but he is a man who deserves immense respect. He is soon to be replaced in command however, as Colonel Basil Barrow (John Mills) is assigned to be the new battalion leader. Basil comes from a rich family with a military past, so he is well educated and runs his men by the book. This even handed, level headed approach is quite opposite to Sinclair’s own style, but that is just the start of the conflicts between the two men. The rift leads to Sinclair’s temper flares and he tears into Barrow’s methods, both in his personal and professional realms. Even at his worst, Sinclair is unable to shake up Barrow however, which makes all the more upset. When Jock goes too far and gives in to violence against a soldier, he finds himself in danger of being drummed out of the service. But will Barrow bring down the ax, or will he find a way to forgive Sinclair’s actions?
If you’re looking for a movie with impeccable performances, you simply must spend an evening with Ronald Naeme’s Tunes of Glory. The film has refined, superb efforts from leads Alec Guinness and John Mills, who shine here. Guinness turns in what could be his finest performance, so you know to expect top notch work. Mills doesn’t step to the side however, instead he takes the spotlight at times and serves as a great complement to Guinness. Mills has a more reserved, internal role, but his talent is obvious here. Guinness has more of a chance to show off, given his emotional and often brash character. The two work well together throughout, never trying to outdo each other, instead satisfied to let the material take the focus. The pace in Tunes of Glory is rather slow, as the movie is more about the characters, instead of a complex plot. So don’t expect much action, as this is more about dialogue and character study, instead of some larger scope premise. But the out of this world performances, great direction by Naeme (The Horse’s Mouth), and top shelf locations ensure Tunes of Glory is never dull or aimless. Criterion has served up a restored transfer and some nice extras, which means this release is a worthwhile one. I’d recommend this to fans of Guinness, but also to anyone who loves a low key, well crafted drama. Criterion’s disc is rather expensive, but the movie warrants the extra expense.
Video: How does it look?
Tunes of Glory is presented in 1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen. This is yet another fine treatment from Criterion, who have restored another excellent picture. This project is another success, though some flaws remain. The main issue is a line that appears the film’s close, which seems to have been unavoidable. I’ve seen worse and been able to overlook it however, so I can’t see getting that upset. The rest of the print looks terrific too, with minimal debris and grain to see, so the image is quite remarkable. The visuals have more depth than expected also, which ensures the small touches are preserved. Aside from the brief presence of the line I mentioned, this is quite simply a magnificent presentation.
Audio: How does it sound?
This soundtrack has also been cleaned up for this release, so the mono option sounds as good as can be expected. A few pops and worn moments can still be heard, but this is as good as you could demand for the elements involved. The accents are tough to understand at times, but that is expected and the soundtrack is not to blame in the least. I found dialogue to be clean and crisp at all times, with no volume or balance issues to mention. So while not a memorable audio experience, this is an adequate and well crafted soundtrack. In case those accents get too tough, this disc also includes optional English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes interviews with director Ronald Naeme and stars Alec Guinness & John Mills, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer.
