A riveting drama of an idealist caught up in the rough-and-tumble world of newspaper journalism, Lonelyhearts stars screen legend Montgomery Clift (Judgment at Nuremberg, Freud) in a haunting performance as Adam White, whose whole life changes when he joins the staff of The Chronicle as advice columnist MISS LONELYHEARTS. But at what cost to his personal happiness? White’s relationship with Justy Sargeant (Dolores Hart, King Creole) is soon threatened by his involvement with his career and his sympathy for the poor souls who bear all to Miss Lonelyhearts. The great Robert Ryan (Horizons West, Day of the Outlaw) brilliantly portrays the world-weary and fiercely cynical editor, Bill Shrike, and Myrna Loy (Love Me Tonight, Midnight Lace) is stunning in an uncharacteristic role as Shrike’s neglected and troubled wife. Completing the stellar cast is Maureen Stapleton (Reds) in her Oscar-nominated film debut. From the acclaimed novel by Nathanael West (The Day of the Locust), the daring Lonelyhearts is a spellbinding view of ambition, greed and human frailty. Directed by television and film veteran Vincent J. Donehue (Sunrise at Campobello).

For thoughts on Lonelyhearts, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:

[youtube https://youtu.be/o54I9R54yQg?t=3105]

Video Quality

Lonelyhearts makes its Blu-Ray debut thanks to Kino Classics with a 1080p transfer from a brand new master courtesy of MGM. While it is a bit odd for this not to be listed as a 2K or 4K scan, we must say that this largely looks spectacular throughout outside of a few moments that seems to be struck from lesser elements. The new transfer shows off a tremendous amount of depth and enhanced detail within the film’s composition. The office at the newspaper is rich with desks that extend back into the frame with little details on their surface.

Contrast is firmly defined with only minimal instances of flicker and density fluctuation in the print. Black levels are deep with no obvious occurrence of black crush or compression artifacts. You are treated to an admirable amount of textures on the clothing and within the production design. Nicks and scratches have almost been eradicated completely, but you may still spot a few spots of slight intrusion. The natural film grain remains intact within the fetching black-and-white photography. Kino Classics has delivered another old school gem.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray comes with an admirable DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track that delivers a joyous listening experience. Dialogue and background noises are balanced well with all competing elements so that everything has a chance to shine. This track shows nearly no signs of age related wear and tear. The most apparent issue is that the track sounds a bit thin when it comes to its musical heights, but even this is not as prominent as some older feature films. The music does not overwhelm the dialogue or other important information. There are optional English (SDH) subtitles included for the feature film. Kino Classics has delivered their typically excellent work.

Special Features

Trailers: The two-and-a-half minute trailer for Lonelyhearts is provided here. There are trailers for Indiscretion Of An American Wife, Judgement At Nuremberg, Freud, Day Of The Outlaw, There’s Always Tomorrow, The Rainmaker, He Who Must Die, Anna Lucasta and Shake Hands With The Devil.

Final Thoughts

Lonelyhearts is a thoroughly engaging tale of morality and human decency complemented by some standout performances. Montgomery Clift turns in one of his signature terrific performances, and it is great fun to see a more mature Myrna Loy showing up in a pivotal role. There is not a lot to be said of the plot that could evoke its transfixing nature, but those who appreciate any of these performers will consider this time well spent. Kino Classics has delivered a Blu-Ray release that shows off a great A/V presentation but almost nothing in the way of special features. If you love a well-acted melodrama, do not pass this up. Recommended

Lonelyhearts is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Kino Classics has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.