Damin J Toell
Senior HTF Member
Some members are probably tired of the discussion of Evil Dead's AR, and the debate will probably never end, but here goes, anyway. Evil Dead was shot on standard 16mm, and it had an exposed aperture of 1.33:1. "The Evil Dead Companion" by Bill Warren states that the film was meant to be exhibited at 1.66:1 during its theatrical run. The Elite transfer was unmatted. For the latest Anchor Bay release, Sam Raimi requested that the film be matted to 1.85:1. As Sam was busy with Spider-Man, this process was overseen by (Executive Producer) Bruce Campell.
For me, that Sam Raimi wanted 1.85:1 is enough. For others (including many who are perhaps swayed by the fact that they've only even seen it unmatted on home video), any matting is unacceptable. It's unlikely ever to be resolved in the minds of many, even if Sam stopped by all of our houses and had a long discussion with each of us about it.
DJ
For me, that Sam Raimi wanted 1.85:1 is enough. For others (including many who are perhaps swayed by the fact that they've only even seen it unmatted on home video), any matting is unacceptable. It's unlikely ever to be resolved in the minds of many, even if Sam stopped by all of our houses and had a long discussion with each of us about it.
DJ
