Using whatever sources were available, the restoration team created a new 35mm 8-perf negative from which a 65mm inter positive was generated. Although not noticeable on the screen, some elements were as many as eight generations away from the original negative. Both 70mm and 35mm prints were then made for theatrical showing. Variations in the color of the above three different formats are indicative of the efforts necessary to produce a properly balanced print.
In addition to bringing the image back to life, the soundtrack was also rejuvenated. Most of Bernard Herrmann's brilliant music score had been recorded in three track stereo. The original music recordings were mixed with new sound effects to give this reborn version of Vertigo a soundtrack to match the visual clarity embodied by VistaVision. The 70mm prints employed dts digital sound, eliminating the need to go to the appreciable time and expense of adding sound on magnetic stripes.
Robert Harris has stated that following the restoration of this nearly lost classic, it should be around for another 200 years. We can only hope so. This film holds up nearly as well as does Kim Novak. (Yum!)
The musings of Robert Harris regarding film restoration, new DVD releases, and other technical aspects of cinema that interest the propeller head and just plain movie fan can be found on The Digital Bits website. Click the link to open a new page and read what's on Bob's mind.
Technical Drawings and Print Dimensions.
