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***The "Darth Editous" Episode IV DVD Info and Feedback Thread*** - a partially "de-specialed" DVD

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 (Edited)

Version 4 (or is it 5?) or this edit is currently in progress, so go to the end of the thread for the latest news.


This thread is for the discussion of my edit of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, following on from the discussion that started on page 12 of the Thought on de-SE'ing the DVD thread.

I started sending out discs today, so hopefully I can get some feedback soon.

Using the 2004 PAL DVD as source, the following changes were made (some go quite a way to restoring the original version of the film, some fix continuity and SFX errors, and some might be a bit controversial):

2007: For an updated list of changes in version 3, go to page 36.

0. The Star Wars logo recedes too quickly. I interpolated new frames to slow it down to the right speed.
1. Fixed the jump cut after R2 and 3PO cross the corridor (watch the Stormtroopers in the background)
2. Smoothed a jump cut as R2 starts rolling away from Leia towards 3PO.
3. Smoothed another jump cut as R2 rolls off towards the escape pod.
4. Painted out the flap of white material behind a wall when the Stormtrooper shoots Leia.
5. Fixed the goof where R2's arm opens the pod door, but disappears in the next shot.
6. When 3PO and R2 are in the pod, the Star Destroyer recedes into the background. Unfortunately so do the stars, which is not what they should see. I've replaced the stars with non-receeding ones.
7. Vader takes a very pantomimish stance when Leia is brought to him - I've cut that out.
8. Moved the restraining bolt on R2, which appears in the wrong position in one shot.
9. When 3PO stands up the Sandcrawler, his eyes blink off for half second. I've fixed that.
10. I've cut the SE Tatooine stormtroopers, so this part is now almost identical to the OT (but the CGI Dewback is still there in the background, and I've shortened the preceeding shot of the Sandcrawler).
11. I've painted out a spurious wire that sprouts from 3PO's head while he waits in line to be bought.
12. Graphic equalized some of Owen's lines due to poor audio quality.
13. I've painted the reappearing red R2 unit green to fix the continuity error.
14. There's a bad cut in the music (it completely drops out for a fraction of a second) when we see the Sandpeople mounting their Bantha - fixed.
15. I've edited out the wall hanging/cloak thing behind Luke to fix a continuity error (but in a weird way - more on that later).
16. I've morphed Luke and Ben, and adjusted 3PO, so the jump cut is not so obvious when he turns on the lightsabre (the lightsabre also visibly extends).
17. Mos Eisley. I've painted out (but kept the shot) the humanoid droid smacking down the floating droid as the speeder enters Mos Eisley. The shot with the Ronto throwing it's Jawa riders is cut.
18. (This is a really geeky one) I've painted out a small stone that could be seen rolling across the ground for apparently no reason behind Ben, as he mind-tricks the Stormtroopers.
19. I've fixed a few frames as the speeder approaches the Cantina, where the shadows were not correctly painted.
20. In the same scene, a ship in the background flys in front of two moisture vaporators, which makes it appear to be tiny. I've moved it behind the vaporators.
21. I've painted out Batboy's transparent eyes.
22. Greedo's subtitles are now "burnt" into the video, with the same font as the SE Laserdiscs.
23. Han fires first!
24. The single frame of Greedo before he fries is no longer a poor dummy.
25. Jabba - you're cut! I've done my best to reconstruct the OT here, right down to matching the number of frames in the transition.
26. The sync on Ben's line ("If the ship's as fast as he's boasting...") was out by 600ms (15 frames).
27. I've painted in the radar dish on the Falcon as it sits in docking bay 94 (just before "What a piece of junk!").
28. I've painted out the guy in a green shirt behind Han, in the first shot of Han in the cockpit after they take off.
29. Before Leia is brought to Tarkin, there's a shot of him and another officer standing in front of a poorly projected picture of Alderaan. I've replaced the projection with a shot of Alderaan from later, replicating the original shading and size.
30. Moff Tarkin's line "...then name the system!" has been graphic equalized to mask the poor audio quality.
31. The stars behind the Death Star jump (as if a few frames were cut) as the Death Star fires - I fixed that.
32. Just after Alderaan bites the big one, Luke's lightsabre is green! Now it's blue - and I've shortened it because at one point the tip remains completely out of frame, causing it to appear far too long.
33. I've used reversed footage to fix a horrendous jump cut when Luke turns off the lightsabre.
34. I've used a morph to fix a bad jump cut when Luke ignites the sabre while wearing the helmet.
35. Vader no longer gestures after finishing his sentence (the shot remains the same length).
36. When the Falcon enters the DS docking bay, I've fixed the gap in the glow from the docking bay light.
37. Some of the stars behind Vader, as he walks to the Falcon, show through his helmet.
38. I've cut the DVD-addition line "There's no-one here." as the Stormtroopers leave the Falcon. The alternative was making the second Stormtrooper reply, "Duh!"
39. Using morphs and pastes, I've fixed a few jump cuts and wobbling doors in the docking bay control room.
40. While our heroes wait for an elevator, a guy goes by first in a light shirt, then in a dark shirt. Now he just wears a dark shirt.
41. I've painted out a stray hair on Leia's forehead which disappears too quickly during a cut-away.
42. The line "I had it all under control until you led us down here!" was of particularly bad quality, so I've replaced it with the same line from the SE LD.
43. After Luke says "It just let go of me and disappeared!" the scene cuts to Leia, at which point all ambient noise suddenly diminishes. I pasted in some sounds to make the transition smoother.
44. The sound of the Stormtrooper hitting his head is so loud it sounds like a comedy sound effect. Alternative sounds didn't work out, so now he just doesn't bump his head - he hangs back until the lead trooper has entered the room.
45. I morphed R2 as he rolls out of the cupboard to fix a slight jump cut (it was much worse on the Laserdiscs but still needed touching up).
46. Two overhead shots of Ben at the Tractor Beam Station needed the colours of the matte painting corrected. The DVD was better than the LD, but there was still room for improvement.
47. Before the cut-away to Leia ("No wait, they'll here!"), Han's gun emits a puff of smoke even though he hasn't fired it yet (painted out).
48. Luke says "What good will it do us if he gets himself killed?", runs off down the corridor, then if you listen closely it sounds like he spits! I cut the sound out.
49. A morph fixes a jump cut when Leia shuts the door on the approaching Stormtroopers, leaving her and Luke trapped on the unextended bridge. There was also a visible squib on the door, which I've painted out.
50. On the DVD, they made a half-hearted effort (a single frame morph) to fix the jump cut when Ben ignites his lightsabre. I've made this a lot smoother.
51. On the DVD, they claimed to have fixed Ben's unpainted lightsabre (just before we cut to our heroes getting to the docking bay). All they did was add the glow, but they forgot to paint the white core. Another shot around this one had a similar problem for a frame or two.
52. In various shots, I've painted out the power cable that led from Ben's sleeve to his lightsabre.
53. When Luke sees the duel from a distance, Ben's lightsabre is already raised and neither sabre is painted. The sabres are now painted in the right positions.
54. When Ben gets cut down, I've added in his face so it looks less like an empty cloak.
55. I've painted Vader's sabre red in a few uncoloured scenes (when he's in the background behind the Stormtroopers).
56. When Han asks "You in kid?" Luke now replies "Yeah," before Han's "Okay, stay sharp."
57. The Falcon shudders as the TIEs pass, but the shake effect on Han and Luke is entirely horizontal and shows no motion blur. I've added rotational and translational movement, and some motion blur.
58. As the TIE makes it's first attack, the glow from the Falcon's engine has a gap in it (from the model's support?) and it flickers. I've smoothed it and filled in the gap.
59. There's a shot of R2 and 3PO in the curved seat on the Falcon. Look closely behind Artoo - for a few frames at the end, a head (probably Luke) appears. I've painted it out.
60. In five or six shots, I've removed the matte boxes from around the TIEs. One shot was particularly awful.
61. I've desaturated a green-tinted TIE fighter that passes in front of Han, and a blue-tinted TIE fighter that passes in front of Luke.
62. I've reframed one shot of a TIE approaching the camera which had no stars on the right 1/5th (or so) of the frame.
63. I've painted out parts of the motion control rig on the falcon that are briefly visible as the Falcon makes it's final descent towards Yavin IV.
64. I've painted out a tool that a technician knocks off a bench as they take care of R2.
65. I've fixed the Death Star schematic that appears on the monitor and in the briefing. The weapon bowl should appear above the equatorial trench, not on it.
66. The clock on the Death Star screen during the attack is now consistent with the announcements. One shot required colour correction to match all other shots of the clock.
67. The whole Biggs scene is gone. I never really liked it, but the ILM guy walking in front to cover up R2's jump made it terrible. They could have done a better job of that, I'm sure. Unfortunately it means I've had to remove the shot of Luke walking under his X-Wing's wing (a different take was used in the OT).
68. In a couple of scenes, I've painted out some stray hairs that Tarkin forgot to comb out.
69. Something I think everyone will be pleased about is that I've been able to restore the missing fanfare, after Red Leader says "I'm gonna cut across the axis and try and draw their fire." I used the Special Edition soundtrack CD as my source. The music was still there in the rear channels, incidentally - it definitely wasn't a creative decision!
70. In a couple of cockpit shots, I've painted out a speck of white that appears on the screen (it doesn't move in a way consistent with a distant rebel ship).
71. In two shots of ships pulling out of the trench, I've adjusted the contrast so that space appears properly black.
72. I've added an X-Wing to the shot where Luke looks down to see Red Leader bite the dust. It always bugged me that there was an explosion with no visible cause.
73. I've done my best to correct some bad blue screening, when Luke says "You can't do any more good back there!".
74. I've reframed the shot of Luke looking back at R2 after he gets shot, because he clearly wasn't smoking as he was in the shots before and after.
75. I've adjusted the colour of the stars in two trench shots, where black space appeared blue (probably not noticeable on a TV screen).
76. I've painted out a smudge on the camera, just after Ben is heard to say "Let go, Luke!"
77. I've copied the second of two identical shots of Vader spinning out of control over the first, because in the first shot, parts of the motion control rig were visible.
78. I've painted out Vader's eye in one shot when it is particularly visible through his mask.
79. As our heroes make their way to get their awards, one rebel in the background raises his hand just before a cut - I've painted it out. Maybe he needed the bathroom.
80. Leia's now don't start moving up a few frames before the credits begin.
81. Denis Lawson's name is now spelt correctly in the end credits.

As you can probably tell, this wasn't an effort to recreate the original version of ANH, but rather to create a hybrid that I could actually stand to watch.

While I wait for people to receive their copies, I'm happy to expand on any of the above or post screenshots.

Darth Editous
dartheditous@hotmail.co.uk

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I've loved reading all your changes and really have only had one bone of contention with them. That being the Stormtrooper hitting his head. Just because it's a signature of the Star Wars franchise. So much so that Jango Fett hits his head in AOTC. But it certainly won't take away from all the other great work you have listed here.
The Jedi are all but extinct.......
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That being the Stormtrooper hitting his head. Just because it's a signature of the Star Wars franchise. So much so that Jango Fett hits his head in AOTC. But it certainly won't take away from all the other great work you have listed here.


Yeah, I knew that one wouldn't go down well with everyone... but hey, it was a goof until the SE, when they added a minor sound effect. And the sound effect they added to the DVD is just ridiculous.

DE
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I have a question:

What is your feeling on us redistributing these edits? I mean, copying them and giving them to friends?
The Jedi are all but extinct.......
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Yes!!! Another PAL based SW project

Seems like some comprehensive work done for ANH, Darth Editous - are there plans to do similar for ESB and RoTJ in the future?

A little patience goes a long way on this old-school Rebel base. If you are having issues finding what you are looking for, these will be of some help…

Welcome to the OriginalTrilogy.com | Introduce yourself in here | Useful info within : About : Help : Site Rules : Fan Project Rules : Announcements
How do I do this?’ on the OriginalTrilogy.com; some info & answers + FAQs - includes info on how to search for projects and threads on the OT•com

A Project Index for Star Wars Preservations (Harmy’s Despecialized & 4K77/80/83 etc) : A Project Index for Star Wars Fan Edits (adywan & Hal 9000 etc)

… and take your time to look around this site before posting - to get a feel for this place. Don’t just lazily make yet another thread asking for projects.

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Originally posted by: oojason
Yes!!! Another PAL based SW project

Seems like some comprehensive work done for ANH, Darth Editous - are there plans to do similar for ESB and RoTJ in the future?


I think ESB is the easiest film to De-SEize. Wouldn't it just take some matte paintings in Bespin, some cuts of the Wampa and replacing the dialogue of the Emperor.

I think he used the PAL version because the colors were closer to being correct, yes?
The Jedi are all but extinct.......
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I think he used the PAL version because the colors were closer to being correct, yes?

The main reason I used PAL is because I'm British, but also they have 1.2x the vertical resolution and a better colour space.

What is your feeling on us redistributing these edits? I mean, copying them and giving them to friends?


The way I see it, I don't really have any rights to this work - I mean it probably is, strictly speaking, a breach of copyright, but one that Lucasfilm has been extraordinarily nice about in the past. So once you've got a copy you're free to do as you wish with it (that's from my POV of course, not Lucasfilm's).

are there plans to do similar for ESB and RoTJ in the future?


There are, though again they will be my hybrid versions of the films. Most of the Bespin stuff will stay, but Boba Fett will get his voice back, along with Vader's original "Bring my shuttle" line and possibly some of the Emperor dialogue - I haven't watched it yet so I don't know how bad it is.

DE
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Rather than clear out PMs, so I can send more...

To anyone who'd like to request a copy, I already have quite a long waiting list, so at this time I can't really take any more addresses - sorry!

Because I'm in the UK, it gets pretty expensive to send discs out. I've included PayPal details for anyone who wants to reimburse me (postage and materials only of course), but it would be a cheaper option for everyone if some of my first US recipients could share it with other members. Would any of you (who've already sent me your address) be willing and able to do that?

I'll have to get to work on a Divx version to get out on file sharing...

DE
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If you make sure it gets to someone like The Dark One (aka Darth Osor), then it can be posted to Usenet and a whole pile of people can get it quickly and efficiently.

Not that I'm volunteering DO to do the posting; just that he's a previous example of a direct route to wide distribution via the best method.

Of course I'd like to get a copy, but I'm willing to spend the time and money to d/l it myself.
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Originally posted by: Darth Editous
Rather than clear out PMs, so I can send more...

but it would be a cheaper option for everyone if some of my first US recipients could share it with other members. Would any of you (who've already sent me your address) be willing and able to do that?


Now don't bombard me with PMs, but once I recieve my disc (If it is indeed coming), I am planning on making some copies for friends. When I'm burning these, I have no problem doing this for 5 members or so from here, just one stipulation. I'm not going to get in trouble with Lucasfilm, so, you must own a copy of the 2004 DVD and want this as a backup. That's my only stipulation.

Also, DE....I never asked. Did you restore the old school 20th Century Fox and LFL logos?
The Jedi are all but extinct.......
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Sounds like you've done a bang up job creating something that can satisfy the old fans and new fans alike. While I don't agree with all your changes, I like what you've done, and I can't wait to see it!

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If someone could get Rikter or Metallaxis a copy maybe they could post on MYSPLEEN.NET as a torrent for download.

Of if I had a copy I would be more than glad to make copies for whoever wanted it.

“Good… Bad… I’m the guy with the gun.”

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Originally posted by: Hardcore Legend[O]nce I receive my disc [...] I have no problem [making copies] for 5 members or so from here.


I'd love to have a copy. I've got the 2004 DVD set (you want a UPC number as proof?). I've also got about 40 LDs -- that should make me pretty legal.

Be advised, though: if I get a copy, I'm not in a position to torrent, post, or make copies (sadly). So if someone else fits that bill better, send it to them.

If I still qualify, I can PM you shipping details...
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I've just sent you a PM, but on another note is there any chance of covers and/or disc art?
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My PMs are full again and I can't be bothered to clean them, so...

Hardcore Legend, I haven't yet sent you a copy - I was going to do it next week. Copies will be going out this week to:

Brimley
Commander Courage
norinradd (UK)
Hal 9000
CobraGuy
ADigitalMan
Mattfitch (UK)
tellan (UK)

The following will probably get theirs next week:

ReverendBeastly
russs15
tellan
El Lono
Klingon_Jedi
Rebel11_38
MagnoliaFan
Hurin
Hardcore Legend

russs15, I'll be including PayPal details in a cover letter. dartheditous@hotmail.co.uk is (one of) my PayPal addresses.

Boomstick, PM me your address and I'll send you a copy next week.

Each DVD also has a JPG of the disc's label on it, but I didn't bother making new cover art because I'll be putting it inside the official DVD case.

David
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Also, DE....I never asked. Did you restore the old school 20th Century Fox and LFL logos?

Nope. To replace the Fox logo I would have had to go to a lower quality source, like LD or VHS. I could have recreated the Lucasfilm logo pretty easily, but I like the new one better.

Post screenshots!


Here's one of my favourite fixes, because it came out so well:

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/81/15/alderaan.jpg

Here's the no-longer invisible X-Wing (this may not be the final version, I can't remember):

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/81/16/xwing.gif

Here's the spaceship that flies in front of the moisture vaporator:

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/81/16/ship.jpg

Play spot-what's-missing with this one:

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/81/17/moseisley.jpg

Here's Ben, now visible inside his cloak. He fades away as he gets sliced.

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/111/05/face.jpg

The corrected Death Star schematic:

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/111/08/schematic.jpg

The Falcon's dish added:

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/111/08/dish.jpg

Anything else anyone particularly wants to see?

David
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Awesome work! Can you post the shot of the fixed Green Saber?

-B
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Tantine IV's Corridors could be touched up a bit. If you are going to post or fix the green lightsaber make sure it's the perfect blue from the DVD BM's Videogames and Still Galleries section.
"A Jedi can feel the force flow through him".
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This shows the recoloured sabre, and the fact that I shortened it slightly to bring the end back into frame:

http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/152/11/sabre.jpg

Looking at it now, it doesn't quite match a later shot from the same angle. But the sabre looks more like white in later closeups - I could have spent a long time making everything match precisely, but instead I went for the quick fix that stops that single shot jumping out at you.

DE
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Original:
http://www.dvdanswers.com/misc/chris/images/articles/starwars/anh/originals/falconsaber.jpg

DVD:
http://home.comcast.net/~glgrimm1/falconsaberdvd.JPG

Darth Edit's
http://img14.imgspot.com/u/05/152/11/sabre.jpg

Fixed:
http://home.comcast.net/~glgrimm1/falconsaber2.JPG
The Jedi are all but extinct.......
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Uh, "fixed" is a subjective term in this case. The "fixed" one looks pretty darn fake to me. I like DE's version.

H
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Originally posted by: Hurin
Uh, "fixed" is a subjective term in this case. The "fixed" one looks pretty darn fake to me. I like DE's version.

H



Really? What about it looks fake?
The Jedi are all but extinct.......
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Originally posted by: Hardcore Legend
Originally posted by: Hurin
Uh, "fixed" is a subjective term in this case. The "fixed" one looks pretty darn fake to me. I like DE's version.

H



Really? What about it looks fake?


Well, it would help us to have a meaningful discussion if you didn't keep changing it!

It looks better now. But before, you had a very deep blue with a sharp distinction between the deep blue outer edge and the core.

Here's another picture of yours from another thread. Originally, your "fixed" one above looked more like Obi-Wan's here:

http://www.dor-lomin.com/ot-images/anhlightsaber3.jpg