There is no question this classic adventure belongs in every serious film collector's library.
he Criterion edition is, indeed, superior to Delta's technically. The Criterion picture, completely remastered and restored, is more distinctly defined, the black and white contrasts more pronounced, the occasional age spots largely removed.
Audio:
The sound, too, is better, smoother, sweeter, clearer, with less background noise. On the other hand, the Delta release has over twice the chapter stops. In any case, for anyone but the connoisseur Criterion's improvements in picture and sound probably would not in themselves warrant the hefty price difference.
Extras:
It is in the extra items that the Criterion issue shows its worth. First, there is a full-feature audio essay by Marian Keane, Assistant Professor of Film Studies at the University of Colorado. Ms. Keane is somewhat overly serious throughout her commentary, too much the scholarly lecturer for my taste, but she provides a wealth of information and insight. Second, there is a complete 1937 Lux Radio Theatre broadcast of the story starring Robert Montgomery and Ida Lupino, based on the film and introduced by Cecil B. DeMille. Third, there is a half-hour documentary about Hitchcock's British years, made in 1978 and narrated by Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. Fourth, there are excerpts from the original 1935 press book for the film, filled with fascinating bits and pieces of trivia. Fifth, there are over a dozen original production design drawings. And, finally, there is a booklet insert containing further comments by Ms. Keane, plus a complete list of the cast and credits.
Parting Thoughts:
Anyone who loves Hitchcock, mystery, suspense, or good vintage films should check out Criterion's edition of "The 39 Steps." Even though the price is steep for picture and sound quality that continue to show their age despite extensive restoration, the film is a classic and the bonus items make the package more than worthwhile.
Audio:
The sound, too, is better, smoother, sweeter, clearer, with less background noise. On the other hand, the Delta release has over twice the chapter stops. In any case, for anyone but the connoisseur Criterion's improvements in picture and sound probably would not in themselves warrant the hefty price difference.
Extras:
It is in the extra items that the Criterion issue shows its worth. First, there is a full-feature audio essay by Marian Keane, Assistant Professor of Film Studies at the University of Colorado. Ms. Keane is somewhat overly serious throughout her commentary, too much the scholarly lecturer for my taste, but she provides a wealth of information and insight. Second, there is a complete 1937 Lux Radio Theatre broadcast of the story starring Robert Montgomery and Ida Lupino, based on the film and introduced by Cecil B. DeMille. Third, there is a half-hour documentary about Hitchcock's British years, made in 1978 and narrated by Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. Fourth, there are excerpts from the original 1935 press book for the film, filled with fascinating bits and pieces of trivia. Fifth, there are over a dozen original production design drawings. And, finally, there is a booklet insert containing further comments by Ms. Keane, plus a complete list of the cast and credits.
Parting Thoughts:
Anyone who loves Hitchcock, mystery, suspense, or good vintage films should check out Criterion's edition of "The 39 Steps." Even though the price is steep for picture and sound quality that continue to show their age despite extensive restoration, the film is a classic and the bonus items make the package more than worthwhile.
Average user rating (1-5):
[release]3127[/release]