Review of Fiddler On The Roof

Video

Fiddler on the Roof dates back to 1971, and this DVD release contains a fully resored version, with a newly re-mixed 5.1 soundtrack. The disc is anamorphic 2.35:1 and the three hour film is split into 36 chapters.

Picture quality is stunning for a film nearly 30 years old, and they have really paid attention to the print used in the transfer. All specks and scratches have virtually been eradicated, and the DVD shows off to the full the beautiful landscape scenery of the small Yugoslavian village where it was filmed (set in Russia). There are many scenes that would be completely lost on the audience if a pan and scan version was being seen, which is obviously the case when the film is shown on the TV.

Audio

The restored newly mixed 5.1 soundtrack is as stunning as the visuals. This film, being a musical, was crying out for this soundtrack, and the restorers have used the 5.1 soundstage to the full. The music sounds as bright and sharp as if it was recorded yesterday, rather than 30 years ago.

Features

The menus are static, but a selection of music from the film is played over the top.
You get a nice audio commentary by the director and Topol, and a small 8 page booklet giving behind the scenes information.

Conclusion

This is a marvellous example of what can be achieved with DVD for older films. They have obviously invested time and money in this project and the results are impressive. Hopefully more older classics will find their way onto DVD, opening up the market to all age groups rather than mainly just the 18-30 male age group as at present.