SPARTACUS [DVD BOXSET] [CRITERION COLLECTION]

Description: Additional Information from InnerSleeve Product Description Universal Pictures originally released Spartacus as a bare-bones DVD, and The Criterion Collection also released the film as a three-disc laserdisc with most of the same extras as this disc. Neither can hold a candle to this splendid two-disc release. The film's transfer is stunning. Spartacus' long-troubled restoration history, supervised by the preeminent film restorer Robert A. Harris (who also restored Lawrence of Arabia and Vertigo to their undisputed glories), has been well documented. The arduous process yields results that are nothing short of amazing. Shown in its original aspect ratio of 2.2:1, enhanced for widescreen TVs, the picture was digitally transferred from a 65 mm intermediate positive. Though Kirk Douglas does seem a bit too red at times, the color correction is stable, tends not to bleed, and seems perfectly balanced overall. The high-contrast picture is sharp throughout, giving many modern-day films a run for their money in terms of visual quality. There is no evidence of compression artifacts whatsoever. The film's 5.1 and 2.0 soundtracks have also been remastered and reconstructed from multiple elements. Alex North's thunderous score really shines here. Disc one contains two audio commentaries. The first track, which was originally recorded for the earlier laserdisc release from 1992, contains insights, observations, and production details from producer/actor Douglas, actor Peter Ustinov, novelist Howard Fast, producer Edward Lewis, restoration expert Harris, and legendary designer Saul Bass. This is simply one of the best DVD commentary tracks around, as all of the contributors have ample time to reminisce about the film's sometimes troubled production. Ustinov almost steals the show with some of his more acerbic comments. The second track is a scene-by-scene analysis taken from screenwriter Dalton Trumbo's notes, written after he viewed a rough cut of the film. The track is narrated by Michael McConnohie and also contains some Alex North music compositions. Disc one also contains an informative restoration demonstration. Disc two contains a wealth of information, including some rare deleted scenes, vintage newsreel footage of the film's premiere, some rather amusing promotional interviews of Ustinov and actress Jean Simmons, another great interview with the droll Ustinov from 1992, an excellent documentary concerning the Hollywood Ten (of which Trumbo was a member) and much, much more. About InnerSleeve We offer unbeatable prices, quick shipping times and a wide selection of vinyl. Purchases come with a 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee (minus Shipping & Handling fees) on all unopened products. All items are from licensed Distributors. We do not deal with any Bootleg or Used items!

Price: 44.93 USD

Location: North Carolina

End Time: 2024-10-22T19:15:19.000Z

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