Touch of Evil

Synopsis: Five versions of Orson Welles’ film noir classic: the 1998 reconstruction (111 min); the 1958 preview version rediscovered in the mid-1970s (109 min); and the 1958 theatrical version (96 min) - each presented in both 1.85:1 and 1.37:1 aspect ratios (1958 Preview version in 1.85:1 only).

TOUCH OF EVIL has taken many forms. The film as released in 1958 was certainly compromised from Orson Welles’ vision, but a brilliant and lengthy memo written by Welles to studio heads in 1957 - taking issue with a studio rough-cut - had some influence on a subsequent preview version shown to test audiences (and rediscovered in the mid-1970s) as well as the 1958 theatrical version. Forty years later, in 1998, Universal produced a reconstructed version of the film that takes into meticulous account the totality of Welles’ memo, and ostensibly represents the version of the film that most closely adheres to his original wishes.
Extras include: 56-page illustrated book containing the words of Orson Welles, and much more
Series: Masters of Cinema
Language: English
Country: United States
Year of release: 2011
Year of production: 1958
Notes: Reviewed in Viewfinder 86 by Professor James Chapman.
Subjects: Film studies
Keywords: feature films; Welles, Orson (1916-1985); Film noir

Director

Cast

Name: Eureka Entertainment
Email: info@eurekavideo.co.uk
Web: http://www.eurekavideo.co.uk/ External site opens in new window
Phone: 020 8459 8054
Fax: 020 8459 5162
Address: Unit 9, Ironbridge Close
Great Central Way
London
NW10 OUF
Notes: An independent distributor specialising in releasing classic and early/silent films on DVD, including the Masters of Cinema curated collection of classic and world cinema. Sale via retail outlets.

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