The Bat (1959) Blu-ray Screenshots (Patreon)

Video

Unfortunately, The Bat takes a heavy hit from the DNR goblins, leaving behind digital residue, compression, and waxiness, all the while sapping life from this film stock. Smearing is evident, grain isn't, and the fine detail disappears entirely. What a mess.

It's a shame too since the scan itself looks modern and recent. Resolution seems high, while all damage is whisked away. The print appears pristine.

Plus, it's bright, and gray scale exhibits great range. A little murky in the middle grays, but black levels reach great density. The contrast's intensity looks practically new, if clipped at the brightest levels.

Audio

Film Detective uses a DTS track - not DTS-HD, just DTS. Odd, but impact sounds minimal. Dialog doesn't strain that much. Music struggles in the upper registers, without any notable lows. It's vintage, but adequate.