And I’m always a bit jealous of those folks, as although you can see a film dozens of times, you can only see it for the first time once.
And the impression of that initial viewing can be monumental.
Most people are unaware that To Kill a Mockingbird was actually based upon an award-winning novel by a young woman from Alabama – a friend of Truman Capote’s.
The film was beautifully cast, especially the children. Gregory Peck has a meaty lead role, for which he received an award. Copies of his eyewear from this film are available in several colors. I probably need a pair.
Direction by Robert Mulligan is superb. Score by Elmer Bernstein.
There are two rumors that began flying about years ago. The first was that the film was shot in NaturalVision. The second is that it was Robert Duvall’s first appearance on film.
I believe the first is false, while the second appears to be true.
The film was shot in an early process called black & white, which eliminated color.
Initial inclination learning this was coming to 4k was abject fear of hot white spots, and 4.0 density black.
Thank goodness, it didn’t happen.
While the new 4k from Universal is encoded for HDR10, the process was performed with a very light hand, and for that I’m eternally grateful.
Beautiful work by Universal.
Grain structure is appropriate for the era, while not ever appearing obvious, especially from a nominal seating distance.
Gray scale is magnificent throughout, as would befit the work of Russell Harlan.
Now to the important feature of this unpacking podcast.
The packaging is simple yet elegant. Imagery with Mr. Peck at the centered in color, with a scene from the trial as background in black & white.
The slipcase is finished in matte, with the 4k Ultra HD logo at the top against a glossy black background.
The news here, and the reason for collectors to grab the first pressing, is that the title of the film, not only on the obverse, but also on the spine are beautifully embossed, with lettering in glossy black.
Normal reverse allowing for all the pertinent information.
Shot on location in Monroeville, Alabama, as well as on the Universal lot.
Tons of extras. One can probably spend a couple of weeks watching them.
Image – 5 (HDR10)
Audio – 5 (DTS-HD MA 5.1 & 2.0 Monuaral)
Pass / Fail – Pass
Plays nicely with projectors – Yes
Upgrade from Blu-ray – Yes
Makes use of and works well in 4k – 4.25
Very Highly Recommended
RAH
To Kill a Mockingbird 60th Anniversary (4K UHD + B…
40% Off $29.98 $18.00
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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