The Red Shoes [Criterion Collection]

"Criterion's presentation of this classic film is typical of their DVD productions: stupendous. As often is the case, a number of quality supplements are included. At the top of the list would have to be an exceptional partly scene-specific commentary moderated by film historian Ian Christie, with interviews from stars Marius Goring and Moira Shearer, director of photography Jack Cardiff, composer Brian Easdale, and devoted fan, director Martin Scorsese. On a separate audio track, Jeremy Irons' wonderful voice reads excerpts from directors Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger's novelization of The Red Shoes and the original Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Red Shoes. A real treasure is a gallery, made up of many photographs of posters, lobby cards, and more from a personal collection of Scorsese. In addition to this is a second gallery, made up of numerous production shots and even a few from deleted scenes. A featurette, utilizing the angle button, where animated storyboards and the final filmed version can be viewed, will also appeal to a legion of fans. Finally, along with the film's trailer, is an extraordinary filmography of Powell and Pressburger, including not only text, but film clips from many of the movies they made. The film is nothing short of remarkable as well. The transfer, shown in its original full-frame aspect ratio of 1.33:1 isn't exactly flawless, as minute scratches are visible from beginning to end, but the new digital transfer, supervised by Cardiff, is far better than has been available before, and these minor faults are far from a distraction. Detail is outstanding and the depth of field is simply marvelous. Color, an essential element of the film, comes across vividly. Skin tones are equally impressive. The mono Dolby Digital sound, utilizing the original elements, is accurate in its presentation from the theatrical release. Criterion, not known for altering the sound on their titles, has done a splendid job with what was available. Dialogue is clear, and the music, though it may have had a fuller sound with some enhancements, still comes across beautifully. Once again, Criterion releases a DVD that equals the art of the film itself."