Probably the only way to be sure is to watch the DVD and see if the picture looks sharp or not. (Another thread on this site cites the NY Times story on how poor the first DVD was, which might give you a clue what to look for.) The copyrights are confusing, especially since the new DVD came out in 2008. Frankly, it sounds as if you may have gotten the older disc.
Here's the difference between the covers of the first and second DVDs: although both are outwardly identical, the blue lettering of the cast's names on the upper left is a brighter shade of blue (like sky blue) on the new disc, compared to a darker, more of a navy blue shade on the first DVD.
How was the disc advertised -- as the original or the remastered? That's a hazard of buying used, especially if more than one version of a film is out on DVD -- you can never be sure what you're getting.
Both versions are still available, but oddly the first, poorer DVD is more expensive (MSRP $19.99) vs. the newer DVD's price of just $14.99 (MSRP). Of course, you can get them cheaper than the suggested price. If it turns out your disc is the older one, return it and just buy the newer one new. FYI, the release date of the first DVD was Feb. 20, 2007, vs. the second's June 17, 2008.
Sorry I can't be of more help.
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goodjourney
15 years ago
Thanks, Hobnob (and I like your moniker)!
The DVD doesn't mention either original or remastered. But the cast's names on the front cover of the case are in a dark navy-purple color, rather than a sky blue, so I think you're right that I probably got the older, inferior version.
I've actually never seen this movie, but I picked it up for $2.00 at my local library. I'll give it a watch soon, but I like to read people's comments beforehand sometimes, to help me know what to look for and appreciate.
I really appreciate your reply!
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hobnob53
15 years ago
Hi goodjourney,
It does sound as though you have the first, flawed version. Actually, I think both are labeled "remastered", it's just that the first wasn't remastered as well as the second. If you decide it's a movie you'd like to keep, you would probably be better off getting the new one, even for a few more dollars.
It is a pretty enjoyable, loopy kind of movie, so I think you'll find it fun. The highlight is Carmen Miranda's rather bizarre number, "The Lady in the Tutti-Frutti Hat". And this is certainly the only chance you'll ever have to hear the frog-throated actor Eugene Pallette sing -- briefly, fortunately. Great, deep color, if it's transferred right.
And I'll return the compliment by saying I like your nom-de-IMDb too!
Let us know how you liked the film (and the visual quality of the print you have).
Enjoy!
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