After some research for 'Building Empire' I came to the conclusion that the Super 8 cut must have been taken from the 70mm version, due the apparent differences. Given that the Super 8mm release was clearly sometime after the theatrical release, it begs the question, why would they chose to use the 70mm print as a source? Perhaps they thought it offered the best image quality for the transfer needed. Does anyone know the release date of the Super 8mm release?*
I would love to see the airline print of TESB that is mentioned over at retrothing! I have contacted one of the guys there to see if he is willing to deal.
*EDIT - It seems the Ken Films Super 8mm versions were released on 1st June 1980. And there were 4, 8 and 17 minute versions. I wonder if any of these other releases hold any more clues. Link
This version with the play along tape may be different again. Anyone seen it before?**
** EDIT - I found this mention on another forum - "Curiously, in 1980, when Ken Films licensed THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK for home movie use, not only did they release two different 400' reels from the film, but offered a 200' reel that was in sound...yet came with a cassette of the soundtrack for those who did not have a sound projector. I recently tracked down this obscure item for the collection at home. (Yes, I still play with the old projector.)" - I wonder if the tape is from the 35mm or 70mm release?
I wonder if any of those 70mm film frames released in 1995 tell us any more? Ok, perhaps that one is a bit desperate.
EDIT - Actually I think this is the entire run.
I guess we will just have to wait and see if a pirate copy of TESB filmed from a 1980 70mm theatre run turns up.
JD