The film materials damaged/lost in last weeks fire were 35mm prints meant for theatrical distribution. Besides some original dye-transfer prints probably among them, it's not an irreplacable loss. On the other hand, the Universal Music materials supposedly had a lot of losses.
Early reports were getting a lot of ridiculous bad information out before actually verifying anything.
What about the original soundtrack, Robert? Could it be restored to 1958 condition today? The anamorphic DVD hasd the mono track, which was from an optical print, is that correct? I listen to the mono when I watch the DVD, but it is pretty ropey in places, which is understandable, but its deficiencies are less bothersome that the foley tinkering that goes on in the 5.1 remix
I have provided screen-caps of both DVD verisons and a 720p version for comparison. The difference is quite clear. It's the last post on the first page of this link.
Sorry no Rear Window Screencaps, but I was able to find a few more for "Vertigo" and "Family Plot" in 1080p. The detail is incredible, especially in the wallpaper at Ernie's.
First: please pardon my lack of knowledge. I've been spending all of my time in the HD forum for the past couple of years. After a quick search here, and a couple of online retailers, I'm slightly confused about editions of 'Vertigo'.
Mine has a copyright date of 1998, and has an orange cover; it has the 'Obsessed with Vertigo' documentary, and also the commentary track featuring RAH. I didn't find this edition available at online retailers.
However, I see that a new 2-disc SE will be released on 10/7/08, but there are few details about the set. Anybody know what the basic differences are, so far as the transfer, or details about extras?
I'm probably better off aiming at this disc, than holding off for a Blu-ray.
It was re-released with the new cover to better match Universal's other Hitchcock releases. It's nonanamorphic.
The new 2-disc "Legacy Edition" will sport a new anamorphic transfer and some new extras as well as the old ones. It hasn't been released yet so details are a bit scant.