kglamers

I note that "This Is Cinerama" and "Cinerama Holiday" are listed as being filmed in an aspect ratio of 1:2.59 but "How the West Was Won" is listed as having a 1:2.89 aspect ratio. Since the film used was standard 35mm stock, with a six-hole pull-down, it seems that the aspect ratio should be the same for every feature presented in this process.

Film buffs would appreciate clarification of this matter.

"How the West Was Won" is, in my estimation, the best of the Cinerama productions because it has a compelling story line accompanying great photography and an excellent musical score. I have always refused to watch it on television because of the limitations of the medium, and I look forward to seeing the film as it was meant to be seen, this autumn in Hollywood.

I remember seeing "This Is Cinerama" in Detroit in 1953, the second city in the US to get the installation, after New York. Mine was a balcony seat, and that was a disappointment. The picture appeared as though projected on top of a huge ball. Also, the vertical strips composing the screen often wiggled a bit, perhaps do to air currents or drafts in the theater. Maybe this problem was not noticeable to those in orchestra seats. The lesson learned was that I would pop for the more expensive orchestra seat for future productions, a couple of which I saw and thoroughly enjoyed.

"How the West Was Won," being presented at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood this fall, has always been on my list to see in the three-strip format. Have ticket; will be there.