Laser? DVD? The Cowboy Experience

by Rick Squillante



A Hardcore "Cowboy-o-phile"? Looking for the ultimate viewing experience for the finest of cinematic treasures? Well throw away your vhs, 'cause buckaroo, you're movin' up a notch.

Laser Disks

For the Purist: Criterion Collection #146 from the Voyager Company.

  • Original 1.85:1 Widescreen format.
  • Original stereo audio track.
  • Full Feature Format (CAV) allowing freeze frame, slow and fast motion, etc.

    This is the definitive print of the original release. Voyager accomplished an excellent transfer. The real bonus on this disc is the running commentary with director Schlesinger and producer Jerome Hellman on Analog Audio Track 2. Their insights into the "how's" and "why's" of each scene are priceless. A photo gallery and details of scripting round out the supplementary section. If you're interested in the film's structure and behind the scenes tidbits, this print is a must!

    For the Revisionist: 25th Anniversary Edition (ML104687) from MGM/UA.

  • Remastered print under Schlesinger and Hellman's supervision.
  • Original 1.85:1 Widescreen format.
  • Dolby Surround Sound audio.
  • Supplemental section includes interviews with cast (Hoffman, Voight, Vacarro) and creative team (Schlesinger), 1969 and 1994 trailers, Voight's screen test, and rehearsals.

    Flawless! Rejuvenated colors and the remixed audio track take the viewer deeper into the film's intensity. HOWEVER, you MUST watch on a balanced, quality screen, and listening on a good Dolby Pro-Logic system to get the film's full impact. Shoddy system? - Don't waste your time! And the supplemental section is phenomenal. Personally, my favorite print. The one drawback is the 8-second delay going from Side 1 to Side 2 - a small price to pay for Nirvana.

    DVD

    For the Revisionist: 25th Anniversary Edition (906038) from MGM/UA.
    Same as the laser disc except no supplemental section. It does include the Pan & Scan (Waste of Time) version, and French and Spanish alternative audio tracks, and Closed Captioning. Sound is great, but the colors seem a bit muted when compared to the laser. The one plus is having the entire film on one side of the disk.

    If you don't have the equipment for viewing this, the ultimate film, on either laser or dvd, quickly become friends with someone who does, get them the laser or dvd as a gift for the upcoming holidays and invite yourself over for the premiere screening. Somehow - Someway - See this film digitally!

    Finally, my favorite "Midnight Cowboy" joke…………….."John Wayne, Best Actor".

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