I’ve recently found a gorgeous 35mm IB Tech print of THX 1138 in Italian. This is the first time we get our hands on this film in 35mm and, more importantly, so well preserved! Colors are fantastic and these are some of the pictures from the seller
The Italian version has credits in Italian but we already have access to 16mm prints to help reconstruct the whole American theatrical release, including the extended scene of SEN with the kids!
This 35mm film has already been purchased and a 4k professional scan has begun, thanks to the help of many generous members.
First half of the film has been scanned already but we are still short of 418 euros in order to complete the scan and buy the needed HDDs.
These are some teasers from the scan. First image is the raw file, second image is how the film appears when projected, third is how it should and will appear after the needed corrections.
high-res here -> https://someimage.com/elj94Kv
high-res here -> https://someimage.com/svFRx1K
PLANNED RELEASES:
PHASE ONE - A first direct grindhouse version (1080p) will be released soon after completion of the scan, this will include the needed corrections seen above. [the Laserdisc “cut” from 35mm scan has already been made by Mavimao, check it out http://originaltrilogy.com/topic/THX-1138-1st-Directors-Cut-35mm-Grindhouse-Edition/id/49918]
PHASE TWO - A digitally cleaned-up version of the film will follow the first “grindhouse version” (this one will require some months of work I think). Poita came out of retirement just to save this film for us!
PHASE THREE - a possible Despecialized Edition by Harmy
If you want to give us a hand to finally save THX 1138, any donation can really help. PM me for PayPal address.
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UPDATE: FUNDING FOR THE SCAN IS MORE OR LESS COMPLETE BUT… I have planned this preservation budget very tightly, strictly to cover scanning and shipping costs and probably underestimating quite a few as well but I initially did not include Poita’s expenses (back up hard drives, professional software licenses, etc), he’s the wizard making this magic happen so if you still wish I help out, please still consider supporting this project with your donations by contacting either me or directly Poita at this point.
Thank you very much
LIST OF BENEFACTORS FROM THIS FORUM SO FAR (in chronological order, more or less)
alexp120 (x2), snicker (x2), J.D., dahmage, valien, THX11384EB, Dek Rollins, Wazzles, silverwheel, jonno, Asaki, Harmy, saf1916, detola, Tower Boss, Porter, Laserschwert, jartatl, Shaunvis, jerlgrain, CriticalDan, Bewy, Socialiste, 2002thx1138, FekLeyrTarg, kurosawafan, Matthew M. (you forgot to tell me your username), Thomas L. (same as for Matthew), FilmCrewe, jerryd89, Mallwalker, Spaced Ranger, FaderArvid, Colson, impossiblefunky, clutchins, 77FN, jdaering
–updated 16th May–