Arsenic and Old Lace Blu-ray Screenshots (Patreon)

Video

Arguably one of the most overdue Blu-rays since the format's inception, the wait was worth it. Criterion produces a dazzling and beautiful 4K scan for this release, sourced from a pristine negative. It's spotless.

Flawless grain reproduction keeps the imagery organically sharp, even luxurious. Sharpness reaches HD's peak potential, and the detail that results is remarkable, even after years of growing accustomed to UHD releases. Texture shines even in mid-range shots. The house's decor, from lace to wood, shows equally.

Perfect gray scale balances exquisitely, mid-tones balanced and resolved, the black levels dense and the highlights vivid. There's not a fault to report.

Audio

Pure PCM mono handles the dialog wonderfully. Clarity and fidelity belie the age, presented with only the slightest wear. Max Steiner's score holds together in pitch, bells and horns equally sharp. No hiss, no dropouts. This is the standard for vintage audio.