ADDITION: Criterion - REISSUE - January 07': The initial release represented Criterion's worst ever DVD transfer, and it had a vast expanse to improve - which it, thankfully, has. The REISSUE is sharper, cleaner and, although there is some movement in the frame, it does show more information. Although anamorphic, progressive and obviously from a different source (the Japanese title, as opposed to western, is used) it does show some artifacts. The black levels have been boosted, perhaps, a shade more than my own personal taste. Overall, fans of the film will be quite pleased with the REISSUE in regards to image.

As with their new Sanjuro release, Criterion have given the option of the 3.0 Perspecta track preserving the original simulated-stereo effects. I did notice on two occasions that it did exhibit a more dynamic range than the old mono (which is still an option).

Stephen Prince, who has a presence on many other Kurosawa Criterion DVD commentaries or liner notes (RAN, Seven Samurai, Rashomom, Kagemusha, Ikiru and Red Beard) does an excellent job with his discussion of Yojimbo. As one might have anticipated - he is well-prepared, brimming with information and totally professional - if in a somewhat lighter tone than, say, a Tony Rayns. Commentaries like these make the DVD worth every penny - it really separates Criterion from their counterparts. There is also a 45-minute documentary on the making of Yojimbo, created as part of the Toho Masterworks series Akira Kurosawa: It Is Wonderful to Create and some extensive liner notes featuring an essay by critic Alexander Sesonske and notes from Kurosawa and his cast and crew.

Overall, Criterion, has taken this problematic DVD production and turned it into a thorough and complete digital release.

****

I guess you never know what you will get from Toho Studios in terms of a print. Obviously Criterion opted for the domestic print master of the original American art house release (see title).

Many consider this on of Criterion's worst DVDs. Non-anamorphic, cropped on all sides and the image quality is quite poor. Often hazy with poor contrast this DVD package has no digital extras save a trailer. Sanjuro may be equally cropped but it is sharper than their Yojimbo. Audio has a decided prominent 'hiss'. Quite an early effort by Criterion but we all hope this will be re-issued by them soon. I know BFI will re-release their edition sooner. Again we hope for improvement. out of  

Gary W. Tooze