Almost as a reiteration of John’s “stop whining” post, I encourage you to simply enjoy the new DVD sets as the wonders of science fiction that they are.
I am not posting this to spawn even more “Why wont they release the originals” but rather to offer my point of view about the DVD set, since I now own it. Oh yes, nearly a whole 24 hrs before it was released in stores I got my eager little mitts on a StarWars DVD set.
I watched A New Hope tonight. I was filled with joy and amazement as though I was watching the film for the first time. It was sheer bliss. I am sure opinions will vary on those who insist that the original, low quality, 2channel stereo sound, Han shooting first copy is “better” and you are entitled to think so. You are also entitled to go on Ebay and purchase an original VHS set of the originals for around $150US (and climbing).
The sound is incredible. With a 5 channel Surround Sound system, you are TOTALLY engulfed in this world. The Special Editions had surround capability, but not even close to this extent. Stuff actually comes out of the rear speakers now. ObiWan sounds dounright spooky when you cant tell where his voice is coming from. Chills I tell ya!!
The imagry is all updated, and the not so special parts of the Special Edition have been tweeked to make it more believable. Jabba is not so cartoony, and the extra occupants of the streets of Mos Eisley no longer stick out. A fine job they did. The DVD menu was cool, and the packaging makes it a great addition to my DVD shelves.
Waaaaay back when we first heard news of Episode1 being planned, the question arose as to how they would make a film that takes place chronologically BEFORE the films created 20 years ago. With all the advancements in special effects this prequel was doomed to look more advanced than its follow up. It just wouldnt “look right”.
The concept that once the empire was dominating the galaxy, things fell into a state of disarray, and since most of the movie takes place on backwater planets far from the core, of course they would look more simplistic. But it still didnt “look right”
If there is any one thing about this new edition, with its crisper brighter image, and hair raising perfect sound, and additional special effects is this:
“The DVD Editions tie together the visuals and imagery from the first 3 films, to make a more believable transition.”
And by the Force…. I like it.
Don’t make this about who shot who first, (for the record they shoot at the same time now!) or how many dewbacks wandered by in that scene, or how sucky you think the Young Anakin’s ghost is. Enjoy the movie like you had never seen it before. Try.
No wait….. “Do or do not, there is no try!”
I will be watching Empire and Jedi tomorrow, and when I have seen them all, I will watch the special features disk.
