Beyond fan favorites, Dracula, Frankenstein, The Invisible Man and The Wolfman (which arrived a decade later), was a fifth creature from the same era, which also spawned a brace of kinsmen.
The Mummy.
That foible aside, this is a wonderful set, although whether one needs (as opposed to desires it) in 4k is another matter.
First and foremost, there is not 4k imagery in these films. But for true diehard fans, and I count myself among that noble breed, the tiny upgrade is essential.
Does HDR made a huge difference in these 80-90 year old film elements?
No. It seems to add something.
In projection, up close and personal with the screen, what you get in 4k is lovely, glistening grain structure.
Walk back six or seven feet, and it disappears, as it always does, and becomes part of the overall image.
But again, in projection, does that added resolution add anything?
I believe it does. And it’s important to those who cherish these films and desire to extract every bit of detail.
Is it important to the rest of the world?
Probably not.
In the end the question of upgrade is dependent upon both one’s passion for the film, in equal measure with an ability to spend the funds necessary toward ownership.
Personally, I’d go for them.
As for the rest of the world…
Image – 5 (HDR)
Audio – 5 (not multi-channel as publicity states)
Pass / Fail – Pass
Plays nicely with projectors – Beautifully
Makes use of and works well in 4k – 3.5
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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