When the home video craze flipped from VHS to LaserDisc, many videophiles invested in the new technology for two reasons. The picture quality was far superior to anything a magnetic tape could offer, and the offerings on Laserdisc were geared towards the aficionados and not the masses. Granted, there were a few mainstream films printed every now and then, but Criterion changed the game in the 1980s with the advent of “special edition” releases. “Citizen Kane,” “The Third Man” and “Blade Runner” were just a few of the titles getting the Criterion treatment. Their motto, to release “important classic and contemporary films” for the public.
Then came the switch from a rather clunky Laserdisc format to the now mainstream DVD followed by Blu-Ray. I’ve made it a point over the years to only collect mostly classic films on both formats, with classic meaning either a cherished favorite or well made modern flick. There is no “American Pie” in my collection… oh wait, there is. Damn it.
Since DVDs hit the market, my biggest complaint has been the lack of film treasures in circulation. Major studios have consistently refused to release many of the pulp films from yesteryear, with good reason. Who but a film buff, such as myself, would buy obscure noir films or old-time movies that fell under the radar of the mass market? It would have been a lousy investment for studios to do so.
But, Warner Brothers must be cheered for adopting an ingenious business model to appease all those that appreciate dusty classics from the film vault. This week saw the launch of The Warner Archive. The studio has made available “rare treasures in authorized editions from the original masters.” And so as not to waste money printing hundreds of copies only to have them grow dust in a Midwest Best Buy, Warner Bros. is producing them on demand. The DVDs are released by special order for $19.95, and can also be downloaded for $14.95.
Any movie fan must at least peruse the digital aisle to discover some true gems from the Warner Bros. catalog. Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Rain People,” Warren Beatty’s “All Fall Down” and Robert Altman’s “Countdown” are just a few of the more than 150 movies made available online. First on my list, “The Adventures of Mark Twain” starring Frederic March and Alan Hale. So many to choose from, and all the time in the world to do so. Kudos Warner Bros. Classic idea.
Check out the Warner Brothers Archives for more great finds.
I just got one of the WB Archive DVDs ” The Mating Game” one of my favorite old romantic comedies and I think Tony Randall’s only movie lead. I was quite pleased. Plays like an anamorphic DVD on my widescreen TV. I am confused by the terminology they are using on their website. What is 16:9 fullscreen as opposed to 16:9 letterboxed? Why can’t we have truth in packaging on DVDs?
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