Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by rico (A) on October 26, 2006 at 10:12:13

I just repaced my laserdisc with the DVD and besides the aspect ratio now being correct (the reason I did) and anamorphic, I was not expecting the huge improvement in deep blacks and proper contrast, something which definitely enhances one's enjoyment of this classic Edith Wharton tale. I do believe that cinematographer Bobby Bukowski out-Godfathers Storraro in certain scenes, or at least matches what the master accomplished in the "Godfather" films, particularly "Part II".

most people know the simple story: newly arrived in a rural New England small town, Reverand Smith is taken by the stoic and non-communicative criplle Ethan Frome and sets out to find out what happened to render him thus and why the townspeople want nothing to do with him or his family. Liam Neeson is excellent as Frome, both pre- and post- tarauma, as is Patricia Arquette as the young Matty and the uber talent Joan Allen as Frome's wife Zenobia. Like all clssics, even nthough you know the story (I read it in high school) you still watch with hope and interest. Beautifully acted and directed and highly recommended.