Thirty-odd years before Stephen King did for clowns what Jaws did for sharks, these energetic acrobats of silliness gave laughter to many, often during darker times. Kirk Douglas stars as one such entertainer, Hans Müller, in the classic drama, The Juggler, which has made its worldwide debut on Blu-ray through Imprint Films in Australia.
After surviving the Holocaust, Hans is relocated to the newly established state of Israel, but is haunted by horrific memories of being held in a concentration camp where his family was murdered. Overcome by psychological trauma and guilt, Hans struggles to adjust to his new life.
The Juggler has the distinction of being the first American picture to be filmed in Israel, and this debut release comes at a pivotal time in the nation’s history, given the ongoing conflict with neighbouring Palestine, which has only intensified. While the film’s story is, without a question, tragic, I think being able to see Israel during its early years gives perspective and serves as a timely reminder of its intended purpose. Countless refugees from Europe were given a chance to start again and live in peace far from the horrors of the war that saw them unjustly expelled from their homes.
Kirk Douglas, whom I’m often mixed on, delivers one of his best performances. The classic image most have of the screen legend is that of an assertive and often abrasive figure, but as Hans, he’s vulnerable and yet has this wonderful ease with people. His torment is never far from the surface, which prevents him from staying put in one place, but he touches the lives of those he meets, including a young orphan and admirer, Yehoshua.
There’s a lot of compassion behind The Juggler, which could have easily been used as a political vehicle, but I think the message is kept very simple. War may be over, but people need time to heal, not just to be relocated under the assumption that all is well because the bombs have stopped falling. Even to this day, the atrocities committed by the Nazis are still difficult to comprehend, so you can only imagine what it was like when it was still painfully fresh in living memory.
VIDEO AND AUDIO
Columbia Pictures clearly had The Juggler ready for HD because it looks amazing. Imprint hasn’t disclosed any information other than it being a 1080p presentation, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the 1.33:1 image is the result of a recent scan, as the texture and level of detail are impressive. It’s one of the best black and white transfers I’ve seen in a while. English LPCM 2.0 Mono provides decent sound despite a limited scope and optional English HOH subtitles are included.
I hope The Juggler receives more recognition, considering Imprint’s release. It may not be the most celebrity edition, but at least it’s out there and more accessible than before.
THE JUGGLER
(1953, director: Edward Dmytryk)
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direct blu-ray screen captures
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