The Warner Archive Collection is proud to be releasing another eye-popping Technicolor® restoration, THAT MIDNIGHT KISS. This handsome M-G-M production provided the screen debut of the immortal Mario Lanza. The story tells of aspiring diva Prudence Budell (Kathryn Grayson) knew what she wanted in a singing partner….but what she got was an uninspiring, walrus-like snob. “Great tenors are very seldom young, good looking men who feel the words of opera” the maestro (Jose Iturbi) explained. “If you ever find one who looks the part, you let me know”. So Prudence found him. And, not coincidentally, his appearance on screen meant that M-G-M had found a major film star. Lanza, already a recording sensation first big-screen appearance in this 1949 film helped to make the production a glowing, box-office success. As singing truck driver Johnny Donnetti, the broad-shouldered tenor proved he could handle lines with ease and warmth. And he amply showcased what everyone already knew – he could belt out a song (highlights include Donizetti’s “Una Furtiva Lagrima” and Verdi’s “Celeste Aida”). Grayson, who had a lifelong ambition to perform on the operatic stage, graced Verdi’s “Cara Nome” with her bright coloratura. And, in his final movie, Iturbi teamed with his sister for Chopin’s stirring “Revolutionary Etude”. Another delightful confection produced by Joe Pasternak.

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Video Quality

Warner Archive presents That Midnight Kiss with a stunning new 1080p master transfer in 1.37:1 sourced from a 4K restoration of the Original Technicolor Camera Negative. Warner Archive never fails to astound Golden Age fans with sumptuous transfers that allow this film to possibly look better than the day it premiered. The film sparkles with natural film grain intact, unlocking a world of discrete detail and clarity. The film showcases some vivid colors within the costumes, production design, and landscapes that leap off the screen with an undeniable vibrancy. Black levels are first-rate with noble stability throughout. The film is downright flawless with no obvious instances of damage or dirt observed here. Compression artifacts, banding, and other such nuisances are not found. Warner Archive is one of the best labels working today.

Audio Quality

The Blu-Ray comes with a DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio mono track that works effortlessly to bring this story to life. This is not a fully committed musical, but there are plenty of tunes to perk up the narrative, and they all sound grand with strong fidelity. There is no unforgivable age-related wear and tear to the track such as humming, hissing, or popping. The more bustling moments are steadfastly handled and give the track a pulse. No single element ever tramples any dialogue that is being uttered here. Exchanges and background noises are represented thoughtfully along with the score. Warner Archive has provided an audio experience that matches the visual one. Optional English (SDH) subtitles are included for the feature film.

Special Features

“One Love of Mine” (Outtake): A nearly three-minute unused musical take is provided.

Senor Droopy: An eight-minute Tex Avery Droopy Dog cartoon is provided here in HD in which our star pup participates in a bullfighting contest.

Heavenly Puss: An eight-minute Tom and Jerry cartoon is provided here in HD in which Tom must face his consequences in the afterlife.

Theatrical Trailer (2:39)

Final Thoughts

That Midnight Kiss is a charming tale of musical ambition and budding romance that balances the melodrama and heartwarming romance with proper care. Mario Lanza makes a mighty impression in his debut, and he is joined by a worthy ensemble that gives him a comfortable safety net. The narrative is far from complex, but it hits the expected beats with a level of confidence that is to be admired. If you like warm feelings and cool songs, this is a film to seek out. Warner Archive has released a Blu-Ray with a sterling A/V presentation and a nice array of special features. Recommended

That Midnight Kiss can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or various other online retailers.

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

Disclaimer: Warner Archive 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.