The Last Emperor
2:1, 1987, Criterion
Here is a title destined for controversy. If you haven't already heard, Emperor was originally released in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, but here Criterion, at the insistence of the Cinematographer, Vittorio Storaro, with the approval of Bernardo Bertolucci, has released the blu-ray in 2:1.
This means some information has been lost from the sides of the frame. Most of the time this is not particularly distracting, but I have to say that I really would have preferred the original aspect ratio -- I think it added to the epic feel of the film and even though, once you accept the new aspect ratio, it is mostly not a distraction, it does noticeably intrude a few times and you become aware of the effect of the new narrower (but taller) framing.
Natural grain is reproduced well and is consistent throughout, some thin ringing noted a few times on high contrast edges. Some are going be disappointed because occasionally there are scenes with a slightly soft and dim appearance.
Personally, I believe this is due to Mr. Storaro's exquisite and masterful use of soft natural light. It takes a lot of skill to shoot in such light and to achieve the type of results he does. If you consider the quality of the light Mr. Storaro captures and the amount of shadow detail you're getting, I think you'll be impressed. IMO, it is really beautiful.
Black levels are excellent, detail is not always as apparent as it might have been with more light, but there are plenty of sharper scenes with more light, lots of detail, saturation, excellent contrast, beautiful use of color, faces detailed down to the pores and imperfections, exquisite fine detail in fabric and clothing, single strands of hair, arresting imagery, and impressive scenery. Aspect ratio issues aside, this is a significant upgrade in PQ from the DVD and unless the film maker changes his mind and approves another release with the original aspect ratio, this is likely the best option you're going to have if you want to collect this title on blu-ray.
2:1, 1987, Criterion
Here is a title destined for controversy. If you haven't already heard, Emperor was originally released in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, but here Criterion, at the insistence of the Cinematographer, Vittorio Storaro, with the approval of Bernardo Bertolucci, has released the blu-ray in 2:1.
This means some information has been lost from the sides of the frame. Most of the time this is not particularly distracting, but I have to say that I really would have preferred the original aspect ratio -- I think it added to the epic feel of the film and even though, once you accept the new aspect ratio, it is mostly not a distraction, it does noticeably intrude a few times and you become aware of the effect of the new narrower (but taller) framing.
Natural grain is reproduced well and is consistent throughout, some thin ringing noted a few times on high contrast edges. Some are going be disappointed because occasionally there are scenes with a slightly soft and dim appearance.
Personally, I believe this is due to Mr. Storaro's exquisite and masterful use of soft natural light. It takes a lot of skill to shoot in such light and to achieve the type of results he does. If you consider the quality of the light Mr. Storaro captures and the amount of shadow detail you're getting, I think you'll be impressed. IMO, it is really beautiful.
Black levels are excellent, detail is not always as apparent as it might have been with more light, but there are plenty of sharper scenes with more light, lots of detail, saturation, excellent contrast, beautiful use of color, faces detailed down to the pores and imperfections, exquisite fine detail in fabric and clothing, single strands of hair, arresting imagery, and impressive scenery. Aspect ratio issues aside, this is a significant upgrade in PQ from the DVD and unless the film maker changes his mind and approves another release with the original aspect ratio, this is likely the best option you're going to have if you want to collect this title on blu-ray.
Last edited:
