The Academy Museum's upcoming 'Presented in VistaVision' series is a cinematic celebration for film enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the world of VistaVision, a format that has seen a resurgence in recent years. This event is a testament to the enduring appeal of this unique projection method, which was once a competitor to CinemaScope but fell out of favor after the release of 'One-Eyed Jacks' in 1961. The series is a testament to the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing cinematic history, particularly the works of directors like Brady Corbet and Paul Thomas Anderson, who have embraced VistaVision for their films.
What makes this series truly special is the opportunity to witness the power of true VistaVision projection. Unlike conventional methods, VistaVision involves a projector turned on its side, doubling the image surface area and providing unparalleled resolution and texture. This technique was once exclusive to Paramount Pictures, and its resurgence in the modern era is a testament to its enduring appeal and technical superiority. The Academy Museum's initiative to install a VistaVision projector in its David Geffen Theater is a rare and essential opportunity for cinephiles to experience the medium in its purest form.
The series will feature rare VistaVision prints of iconic films such as 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral,' 'The Ten Commandments,' 'White Christmas,' 'Anything Goes,' and 'We're No Angels.' Among these, 'One Battle After Another' stands out as a particularly notable inclusion. This film, previously screened only in its native VistaVision in a handful of theaters worldwide, will now be accessible to a broader audience. The majority of 'One Battle's' prints, along with all prints of 'The Brutalist,' were initially extracted from the VistaVision negative and projected in more conventional formats like IMAX, 35mm, and 70mm. However, the true VistaVision experience, with its enhanced resolution and texture, is a sight to behold.
In addition to the VistaVision prints, the Academy Museum will also screen 70mm restorations of films shot in VistaVision, such as 'The Searchers' and 'North by Northwest.' These screenings will provide an opportunity to appreciate the artistry of these films in all their precision and detail, on the museum's expansive Geffen screen. Furthermore, DCP presentations of classics like 'One-Eyed Jacks,' 'To Catch a Thief,' and others will be available, many of them derived from new 6K digital scans of the VistaVision negatives. This diverse program caters to various tastes, ensuring that every visitor can find something to appreciate.
The 'Presented in VistaVision' series runs from August 20-31 at the Academy Museum. It is a must-attend event for film enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history of cinema and experience the magic of VistaVision. For those who are unable to travel to Los Angeles, the Academy Museum's website provides detailed information about the program and ticket availability, ensuring that the joy of VistaVision can be shared with a global audience.
