Ragtime: 40th Anniversary

Based on E.L. Doctorow's novel, "Ragtime" tells an unforgettable story of disparate character in New York City in the early 1920s. From the emerging New York suburb of New Rochelle to the flashy spectacle of Atlantic City, a family faces racial tensions, scandals, and violence that will test everything they believe in. (Gary Reber)

Special features include collectible packaging featuring a foldout image of the film's theatrical poster and an interior spread with key movie moments. On Disc 1: commentary by Director Milos Forman and Executive Producer Michael Hausman, the featurettes "Ragtime Revisted: A Conversation With Lary Karaszewski And Screenwriter Michael Weller" (HD 21:11) and "Remembering Ragtime" (HD 18:32)), deleted and extended scenes (SD 17:06), legacy deleted scenes (SD 19:19) and a Movies Anywhere digital code. Disc 2: Director's Cut Workprint (02:54:02).

The 1080p AVC picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia
Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, upconverted to 2160p
with greater resolution and luminance, was
photographed on 35mm film in anamorphic Todd-AO 35 at 2.35:1 using J-D-C cameras and sourced from a remastered 4K transfer and Digital Intermediate format. This is a beautiful filmic experience with a lush, saturated color palette bedded in subtle fine grain, which is virtually unnoticeable. Hues are rich and warm throughout and exhibit fine textural shadings. Flesh tones are perfectly natural and reveal facial complexities. The production design is incredible and period realistic. Contrast is excellent. Unlike an actual theatrical presentation black levels actually extend to solid black, not dark grayish as in the theatrical experience. White levels are natural and exquisite. Resolution is superb with fine deal exhibited in facial features, hair, beards, skin pores and facial lines. Object texture is nicely defined throughout which enhances the realism of the period, as well as the period costumes. Miroslav Ondricek's Academy Award-winning cinematography is incredible. This is a remarkable film presentation that is a classic to experience. (Gary Reber)

The Dolby TrueHD 5.1-channel soundtrack has the qualities of a fine theatrical presentation. Fidelity is excellent for a soundtrack created 40 years ago. Randy Newman's orchestral music is expansive across the soundstage and surrounds. Atmospherics are absolutely realistic in terms of city sounds, night clubs, and beach settings. Sound effects deliver realistic dynamite explosions, gunfire, and numerous nuanced effects. Foley sound effects are perfectly synced with picture. While front stage focused, surrounds are satisfyingly enveloping. Bass extension is deep but not exaggerated. Dialogue is intelligible and spatially integrated. This is an involving holosonic® soundtrack that perfectly complements the picture. (Gary Reber)