Jim Harwood wrote:Having worked on the nitrate elements for this serial, getting them into shape for scanning, I can tell you that the bulk of the serial sources from the nitrate original negatives. There was some backup elements used (fine grain, dupe negatives) for sequences and reels here and there, but the majority of the running time came from original negative.
I haven't seen the finished product myself, but it should look really nice!
Thanks for that update, Jim. Info from someone directly involved in the project should kick the enthusiasm up another notch.
When under-appreciated classics receive blue ribbon treatment it's an absolute delight. I can only imagine what this will look like maxed out on BD from the best surviving 35mm sources. As one of Republic's finest early chapter plays
Daredevils of the Red Circle sets a high watermark from the first episode and never lets up. In high definition this should kill earlier DVD and DVD-R knock-offs copied from LD, videotape or well worn 16mm prints.
Charles MiddletonAlthough KINO-Lorber is promising only two classic Republic serials,
Daredevils of the Red Circle and the equally awesome
Adventures of Captain Marvel, ...who knows, if sales are brisk enough maybe we'll see more cliffhangers from Republic's golden era (1938-1949) licensed for home release on BD. That would be welcome news indeed!
Enthusiasm notwithstanding, I have absolutely no connection with Paramount, KINO or anyone marketing K-L releases. I'm just excited that someone has finally seen enough potential in these great Republic cliffhangers to gamble on licensing first rate 4K masters for the home market.
The preorder price seems reasonable enough for collectors to pick-up extra copies as gifts for friends and family who love epic adventure flicks. Bottom line, if you enjoy vintage serials this would be good time to vote with your dollars.