ADDITION: Arrow Academy - Region 'B' - Blu-ray - September 11': The new Arrow Academy 1080P transfer is a decent one. At first I thought it was a bit waxy but feel it is more inherent in the film's true appearance. It is described as 'a new 2K resolution restoration of the film image and sound transferred from 35mm '. There is grain and depth as well as a jump in detail that will be noticed most by those with larger, more discerning, systems. The Arrow shows marginally more information the top, bottom and left edge of the frame - with Criterion showing a small additional amount on the right edge. Contrast is a shade less prominent than the Criterion - who may have procured their digital magic to some degree. Textures aren't overwhelming but the higher resolution does improve the visuals - especially in a few sequences about 2/3rds in. The Blu-ray disc is single-layered with a reasonable bitrate. It adheres to the original 166:1 aspect ratio. There was only one instance of noise that I noted - where the, often, darker Criterion SD exhibited that phenomenon more frequently - although not fatally.

Audio comes in the form of a linear PCM 2.0 channel at 2304 kbps. The uncompressed track has no flaws but is unremarkable except as a stronger representation of the original. Like the Criterion there are optional English subtitles. The Arrow Blu-ray is region 'B'-locked.

The Arrow doesn't have the wonderful Annette Insdorf commentary track but does includes a 25-minute interview with director Andrzej Wajda where he discusses Ashes & Diamonds. It is presented in 1080P. Included in the package is a comprehensive booklet by writer and film historian Michael Brooke, including new writing on the film, a re-print of Marek Hendrykowsk's monograph on Ashes & Diamonds , Andrzej Wajda 's lecture on Cinema Past and Present. The artwork presentation packaging includes three original posters and a newly commissioned cover.

The Criterion is only available as a SD boxset entitled Andrzej Wajda: Three War Films (reviewed HERE) with A Generation (1955), Kanal (1957) and Ashes and Diamonds from1958. It is pricey but can serve as an excellent introduction to the director. The Arrow is definitely an improved presentation for the latter film - plus the included supplements should be enjoyed by fans of the director. Those who are capable of appreciating this masterpiece and can play region 'B' should definitely consider adding this to their digital library. It is the best home theater presentation currently in existence.

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Back in my youth, Ashes and Diamonds was one of those movies which defined a generation -- it was a symbol of our generation; part of the revolt (along with beat-poetry and Bob Dylan) against the stodgy middle-class, religion-ridden world of our parents. The introduction of directors such as Wajda to a new and wider audience is of course one of the great benefits of DVD. (Thanks Anthony!)

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ON THE DVD: Wonderfully film that requires some work and patience. I, again, thoroughly enjoyed. I'm so glad I was able to see all of these films (thank you Criterion!) especially so close together. I got a real feel of the 'Polish school' with one of its icon directors.

The 1.66 widescreen is accurate. Excellent contrast. The film has some dark moments that don't appear to have any manipulations.  I've always enjoyed Annette Insdorf's remarks and although I have not had a chance to indulge in this commentary yet, I expect this will be as insightful and enlightening as her previous. I look forward to it. Overall a fantastic boxset by the great Criterion. Hallelujah! 

Gary W. Tooze