Feallan said:
Okay, maybe it's a stupid question, but how this 70mm frame scan isn't cropped? I thought all 70mm prints were 2.20:1?
Well from what little I've read, there were several aspect ratios for the several 70mm filming and projection technologies, but 2.20:1 was standard for blowing up 35mm film for 70mm, at least as I understand it. Here's some 70mm frames:
Notice that there are magnetic strips between the edge of the frame and the sprocket holes, as well as outside of the sprocket holes. These strips held the six channel audio, and would cut down on the available space in frame. Most of the 70mm frames of Star Wars that I've seen have not included these strips, so they were definitely never projected in a theater. They may simply be blowups of 35mm made specifically for collectors, unless they took a print and used it before the strips were added, which I find unlikely. The frame I used above was already cropped, so I don't know if it had audio. Based on the wider aspect ratio however, as well as it's unfaded appearance, I'd say that is not authentic. That's why I like the photo more; I know where it came from. Perhaps someone with more intimate knowledge of the 70mm process can set us straight!
@timdiggerm: You were there? That's so cool! I guess that explains why you're not interested in this - you've seen it already. ;)