BEATLEMANIA LIVES : "A HARD DAY'S NIGHT" BACK IN THEATERS

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BEATLEMANIA LIVES : "A HARD DAY'S NIGHT" BACK IN THEATERS
Whitney Mathesson
USA TODAY
June 23 , 2014

One of this week's most anticipated Blu-ray/DVD releases is the Criterion Collection's beautifully restored edition of A Hard Day's Night. And while I'm sure it'll look fab on my TV, I kind of prefer to see John, Paul, George and Ringo on the big screen — especially since I've never done so before.

Thankfully, next month Janus Films is bringing the classic to more than 90 theaters nationwide. The summer screenings kick off July 4 and mark the movie's 50th anniversary.

I can't say I completely understand the restoration process, but Janus' explanation sounds quite impressive:

Using the latest in digital restoration technology, the Criterion Collection was able to restore A Hard Day's Night from the original 35-millimeter camera negative, which, though incomplete, is in excellent condition. The missing material was taken from two original interpositives. The image was scanned in 4K resolution on a Scanity film scanner to retain the character of the film's original printing stock without any generational loss, and the raw data was carefully treated, using a variety of digital tools, to remove dirt, scratches, flicker and other damage. The final result was approved by director Richard Lester, and is in its original theatrical aspect ration of 1.75:1.
Janus also launched an official Hard Day's Night site, complete with screening info, photos, trivia and more. There, you can learn fun facts like a) the words "The Beatles" are never spoken in the movie; and b) a 13-year-old Phil Collins appears as an extra.

The trailer alone is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. I can think of few other movies that are filled with as much sheer joy as this one.