ADDITION: Sony Pictures Classics: February 2010: Since the images on the two Blu-rays are identical, the question of superiority comes down to two fronts: audio and extras. Let's start with the former. Although the Sony disc comes with a wonderful 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track that sounds crystal clear, the MoC release has that and two additional audio tracks to choose from. When you also factor in the fact that both have decent English subtitles (the Sony also has Spanish, French and Portuguese), then the edge has to go to the MoC. Next, let's look at the extras. The MoC and the Sony both have the same deleted scenes, but the Sony disc also has an excellent commentary by the director and the festival producer. On the other side, the MoC has an interview with the director and another of the invaluable booklets that they specialize in. Although both releases have their own strengths, I'd have to give the Sony release a marginal edge here because of the commentary. Overall, I don't think that you'd go wrong with buying either disc and I suspect that your choice of purchase will simply depend on which side of the Atlantic you reside.

Brian Montgomery

****

I expect I'm not going to be very objective with my comments as I just loved this documentary and have watched it 3 times now. Described as " ...a legendary concert event that achieved mythological significance as the definitive Africa – American musical event of the 20th Century" seems wholly appropriate. This film is educational and has wonderful energy - especially in the second half. The performances from the likes of James Brown, BB King, Bill Withers etc. are nothing short of iconic.

Using only original 16mm footage from 1974 (outtakes could have been taken from unused portions of When We Were Kings - where director Levy-Hinte’s was part of the editing team during the production of Leon Gast’s documentary) this DVD transfer is impressive in its own right. The grain-to-noise ratio is excellent on this dual-layered, progressive and anamorphic SD disc. But, Predictably the Blu-ray advances - with even more textured grain, more intensity and vibrancy of the colors and detail as well is an improvement - visible even in the screen captures below. This verité look is magnificent and the elements used must have been in tremendous condition. Surprisingly, I would say that this is a very beautiful looking film with such rich, honest, untainted visuals. It is a sight to behold in motion. I swear that James Brown flicked some sweat onto my coffee table.