im looking at those examples and except for the hoth speeder and last image of MF, I cant really see any lines. And yes, going off of my best memory, the only lines I recall are the rancor scenes.
Harmy, I watched your 1.0 of the OOT last week and don't recall seeing any and im assuming you didnt remove.
the differences I do see in all examples is that the overall image is more faded as opposed to the recomped versions. and seperate elements are more faded than others. I thik I recall Joe Lettieri saying that this was likely done in order to avoid matte lines.
anyway, I guess the thing I would want to know is if all the elements were recomposited, cleaned up and restored using the latest/greatest tech, would that just naturally result in reduced matte lines and keeping the image integrity of all elements? if so, i think that would be ok. Its probably not practical to optically recomp the elements anymore than it is to chemically remaster a film as opposed to digitally. The equipment probably does not even exist anymore(?)
OTOH, if it doesnt and removal of matte lines involves scribbling them out like how wire work is scribbled out, that to me is tinkering.
Harmy, It sounds like you confirmed that if they did a modern recomp but used same elements, it likely could reduce the matte lines. Your opinion is that it would be a compromised release, but then the only other alternative would be to remaster an IP with all the elements already composited, right? dang, im so rusty on this stuff.
@baronlando - I always knew money was no issue, but i was shocked to see it that low, lol. I was never comfortable with the idea of Robert Harris offering to restore the OOT for free because i think that was one of the things that encouraged Lucas' behavior and attitude for everything he does. He had so many people over the years that would either do things for free or below market rate because we all love SW. But if those estimates are true, I can understand why mr. harris wouldnt mind doing it pro bono ;P As for the SW thread, you are a braver and more patient man than I ;P