I haven't found concrete evidence, but we will assume the film was shot in a 1.85 ratio making the 1.78 anamorphic conversion acceptable (loss of about 4%). The Criterion transfer looks excellent leaving all the rough production earmarks of its roots intact. The heavy grain gives the feel of true film although I suspect there is some digital noise as well producing that effect. All-in-all the DVD looks to give an accurate representation of its original festival showings. The commentary is a bit unique but almost excessively informative. These can be the best commentaries as they are very honest with Barbara relaying details about the films unsuspected success. This only helps imbue the true independent feel that the film already supports. It really clicks into place very well. The other supplements - 'Making of...', interview, outtakes etc. are all of a decent quality and highly relevant to appreciating the film in a higher vein. Nice to here John Sayles opinions. This is another great package by Criterion. Very worthwhile content.

The film is an account of a violent miner strike (if you couldn't tell simply from the screencaps) but it seems to be able to touch us with its strong, simple and intense characters even beyond Kopple's heavy-handed accounting of the details.

Gary W. Tooze