One of Sidney Poitier's best films, "A PATCH OF BLUE" has just received the recognition it deserves with a superb dvd presentation, courtesy of WARNER BROS.  Poitier shines here, but so do all of the outstanding supporting players. 

Shelley Winters plays Rose-Ann, a prostitute/mother, to a sweet blind girl named Selina(Elizabeth Hartman. Selina’s rare moments of happiness occur when her grandfather, an alcoholic, accompanies her to sit by a tree in a nearby park.  There, she works on beading, to then sell for a small income.  One day, a decent young man, Gordon Ralfe(Sidney Poitier), meets and befriends her.  Director/writer Guy Green has crafted a brilliant story here. It’s thoroughly poignant!  Gordon doesn’t reveal he’s black and the viewer, like Gordon, knowing she can’t see, is that much more moved when the two fall in love.  While we wonder what will happen when she finds out he’s black, the dilemma points out the ludicrousness of it even being an issue!   When they fall in love, it’s the real thing, as it’s not a love built on superficial things affecting most relationships. 

When comparing “A PATCH OF BLUE” to Poitier’s bigger hit, “GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER,” it’s easy to see the former is superior in almost every aspect.  “GUESS” exploits the “inter-racial” aspects of the plot, whereas “A PATCH OF BLUE” explores it.

The subject matter of “A PATCH OF BLUE” could have easily made it melodramatic and predictable. It’s due to the outstanding direction, acting and script, that the film works well on every conceivable level.  The script never allows its characters to come off as stereotypes. People are never just “black” or “white.” They’re imperfect and ignorant at times, and Gordon’s not portrayed as being a knight in shining armor. Instead, more importantly, he’s the perfect man for Selina, or any decent girl, because he’s so decent. 

WARNER BROS has preserved the film’s original 2.35:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement.  The black&white cinematography is wonderful.  Compositions take full advantage of the ratio, and any cropped image would greatly diminish the impact of Green’s story.  The contrast is flawless! Blacks and grays are deep, and the entire image glistens!  There is no noise anywhere, and the image is really flawless!

WARNER BROS. has provided the original monaural track for the film.  It’s in fine shape, with a fidelity range, helping to showcase Jerry Goldsmith’s terrific score.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

WARNER BROS. has included a wonderful commentary with writer/director Guy Green.  He comes across as a very likeable guy, and his script certainly conveys a sensitive, compassionate human being.  He discusses his background as a cinematographer, inspirations, and plenty of insight into the film's actual production.  It's a great film, and recommended as part of every dvd collection.