HTF HD-DVD REVIEW: The Shining - Recommended (1 Viewer)

The number rating of the video quality doesn't really seem to match the written review of the video quality. I actually read the review portion first and noticed afterward that the video rating was 3.5/5 and was surprised, since other than some grain (which the reviewer stated wasn't a bad thing), there was nothing in the review to suggest the less than stellar rating. It seems a bit confusing.

I tend to reserve the higher numbers for when I really get excited. I believe the only times I've given out a 5 out of 5 has been for the new transfer of 2001 and for the Blu-ray of Dreamgirls.

This is still a really good transfer, and it is the best that The Shining has ever looked on home video. But as far as knocking me out of my seat, that privilege went to 2001, hands down.

I understand that Kevin, and having watched the HD-DVD I agree with you. I just didn't think there was ANYTHING in the written portion of the review that explained the 3.5/5 rating. From what you'd written, I sure wouldn't have expected anything less than a 4, and 3.5/5 at first glance seems very disappointing.

The written review seems much more praiseworthy than the score indicates is all I'm saying. It would probably be helpful if something in the written review explained why you only give the video 3.5 stars. Just my opinion.

I hear you, Mike. I honestly didn't think that 3.5 was a bad score. This is a good, solid, smooth transfer. Is it a revelation? No. Is it trying to be one? No. Does it help to have the compositions back in their proper 1.85:1 ratio? Absolutely.

I admit that I tend to be a tough grader. But I feel that if I give too many 4s and 5s out, then I cheapen the whole idea. This is the same thing as came up when there was a discussion about people using the phrase "Highly Recommended" too much of the time.

(On the issue of the 1.85:1 compositions, the Stanley Kubrick Archives book is instructive. There's a photo of the Timberline Lodge that Kubrick sent to his second unit crew with some very specific instructions on it. You can see the photo in the View from the Overlook featurette. On it, Kubrick has framed a composition at 1-1.85 with the typed note: "THE FRAME IS EXACTLY 1-1.85. Obviously you compose for that but protect the full 1-1.33 area."