LUDWIG

LUDWIG REVIEWED

“Ludwig” gets a release that almost mirrors the “Fanny & Alexander” release from Criterion. For the younger readers, massive European mini-series were usually cut together as lengthy Arthouse epics in America. This release presents both cuts in the best way possible. There are some disc splits, but it keeps the A/V Quality quite sharp. So, what about the film? Why don’t young film snobs know much about this film?

Well, because it doesn’t have that grand of a legacy. It’s visually stunning costume drama porn, but nothing happens. Visconti paints a portrait of a sullen Royal who lives indoors and only ventures out for moonlight romps when the mood strikes him. Ludwig is sheltered in every sense of the word. As he ages, it becomes revealed that this might not be a bad thing as very few people can reach him. But, still he turns everyone and everything into a playground to suit his whims. This one won’t play for all audiences.

SPECIAL FEATURES

• Brand-new interview with actor Helmut Berger
• Luchino Visconti, an hour-long documentary portrait of the director by Carlo Lizzani (Wake Up and Kill, Requiescant) containing interviews with Burt Lancaster, Vittorio Gassman, Francesco Rosi, Claudia Cardinale and others
• Speaking with Suso Cecchi d’Amico, an interview with the screenwriter
• Silvana Mangano: The Scent Of A Primrose, a half-hour portrait of the actress
• Theatrical trailer
• FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated collector’s booklet containing new writing by Peter Cowie

A/V STATS

• 2.39:1 1080p transfer
• DTS-HD 1.0 mono

RELEASE DATE: 4/11/17