Rykodisc version of "M" (1 Viewer)

[Raj_Thiara]

Noticed a DVD for R1 for two Fritz Lang films (Spies and M) put out by Rykodisc. Anyone know anything about the AV quality of this production?

 

[Jeff Adkins]

It's lousy. The Criterion disc isn't much better. There is a new restored version that was released in Germany which blows away the Criterion. Unfortunately, there are no English subtitles, but I hear a new version is being worked on (possibly by Criterion?) for R1. You can check out shots of the different versions on dvdbeaver.com.

Jeff

 

[Brian PB]

There is an extensive discussion of the new transfer of M at dvdscan (also known as The Laser Examiner). It is currently available only as a Region 2 PAL disc from the German label UFA (and is expected on the UK's Eureka label later this year--also in the PAL format).

While I suspect we'll see this version in Region 1 eventually, it may be a while--Criterion has recently indicated that they don't plan to re-release M using the restored elements, at least in the near future.

 

[Jon Robertson]

Here's the final paragraph from that review:

If you are dependent on subtitles to fully understand the film, you might want to wait a bit for the release of the 2-Disc Set Special Edition of M by Eureka in the U.K. in September 2003. It will feature a new digital transfer to be made a High Definition Datacine, and will also for the first time present a 50 minute interview with Lang, extensive documentaries, audio commentaries, and more. The Laser Examiner will supervise the project, including the transfer.

I think we can officially refer to the above as the Best News Of The Year. Period.

 

[Jeff_HR]

Here's the final paragraph from that review:

quote:
If you are dependent on subtitles to fully understand the film, you might want to wait a bit for the release of the 2-Disc Set Special Edition of M by Eureka in the U.K. in September 2003. It will feature a new digital transfer to be made a High Definition Datacine, and will also for the first time present a 50 minute interview with Lang, extensive documentaries, audio commentaries, and more. The Laser Examiner will supervise the project, including the transfer.

I think we can officially refer to the above as the Best News Of The Year. Period.

I agree, wonderful news. I'll be buying the R2 Eureka disc as soon it is available.

 

[Jon Robertson]

Full specs and details

It's a R2 PAL release, I'm afraid, though this staggering release alone should convince one or two people to go multi-region.

 

[Jeff_HR]

Is this version fully restored in terms of running time to that of its original cut?

 

[Jon Robertson]

Yes, it's been totally restored and reconstructed (hence the supplement that compares the original version on the disc, and the post-WWII recut).

 

[Jeff_HR]

Wonderful. I'm looking forward to reading some reviews.

 

[Mark_vdH]

No other choice than to go with the upcoming R2 Eureka....