Fail Safe 2000: A Timeless Cautionary Tale of Nuclear War

The Criterion Collection's release of Sidney Lumet's 1964 film 'Fail Safe' is a remarkable achievement in the world of restoration. The movie, presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 on a dual-layer disc, has been scanned from the 35mm original camera negative and looks unbelievably good. The black-and-white presentation is sharp, clean, and film-like, with impeccable detail and contrast that allows for bright whites and dark blacks without blooming or crushing.

The story of 'Fail Safe' is a cautionary tale of nuclear war, but it never tries to beat its purpose into the viewer. Instead, it lets the story tell itself, which is always the best approach. The script is excellent, and the story even better. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the film and was honestly moved by the ending.

The performances in 'Fail Safe' are also noteworthy. Richard Dreyfuss, Harvey Keitel, and Hank Azaria stand out as particularly strong, but it's difficult to break away any actors from the strong ensemble. The whole cast rises to the occasion in this picture, making it a truly impressive achievement given that it was performed live on national television.

One of the most striking aspects of 'Fail Safe' is its ability to capture the sense of a Cold War drama. From the set design and costumes to the direction and choice to air in black and white, every element works together to create an atmosphere that is deeply immersive.

In short, 'Fail Safe 2000' is a must-see for anyone interested in film or history. It's a powerful cautionary tale of nuclear war that still resonates today, and its restoration is a testament to the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

Fail safe 2000