The Apartment (1960) is prime Wilder – most of them are – but to see it in 4k is a new treat.
Beautifully rendered in black & white – shot by Joseph LaShelle, it won five Academy Awards and placed itself as the adult comedy (also drama and romance) of the era to beat.
Previously released, presumably from the same master, by Arrow, it joins a list of UA (MGM) productions arriving in sparkling new 4k restoration on Arrow or Criterion, to be supplanted by 4k via Kino.
For those wondering if you’ll get an uptick in 4k over the Arrow, the answer is yes, but not major. You’ll see it more in projection than on a flat panel. If one doesn’t have the Arrow, go directly to Kino for the 4k.
The audio is still primarily monaural, although tracking in 5.1, with music working more via the left and right.
One of the great films, and a necessity in any serious library.
Image – 5 (SDR)
Audio – 5
Pass / Fail – Pass
Plays nicely with projectors – Yes
Makes use of and works well in 4k – 4.5
Very Highly Recommended
RAH

Robert has been known in the film industry for his unmatched skill and passion in film preservation. Growing up around photography, his first home theater experience began at age ten with 16mm. Years later he was running 35 and 70mm at home.
His restoration projects have breathed new life into classic films like Lawrence of Arabia, Vertigo, My Fair Lady, Spartacus, and The Godfather series. Beyond his restoration work, he has also shared his expertise through publications, contributing to the academic discourse on film restoration. The Academy Film Archive houses the Robert A. Harris Collection, a testament to his significant contributions to film preservation.
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