Rating: 
Summary: Inferior transfer from Criterion compromises masterpiece
Review: You'll hear no disagreement from me that The Scarlet Empress is Von Sternberg's masterpiece, abounding in stunning imagery. But I have to express my extreme disappointment with Criterion's transfer. Never have I seen a harsher (some call it sharp), grainier image or a black and white film so lacking in the subtle gradations of light and shade. No adjustment to my excellent TV could correct these deficiencies.I have seen beautiful prints of this film recently on the big screen, and the VHS tape from MCA Home Video is also vastly superior to Criterion's release. The only improvement I can detect on the DVD is a brighter, cleaner soundtrack. Based on my previous satisfaction with Criterion's quality, I have pre-ordered many items from the Criterion Collection in the past without waiting to read the reviews; I simply assumed the quality would be excellent. Now, I am greatly concerned about my outstanding pre-orders with Criterion. To sum up, I believe the Criterion release of The Scarlet Empress compromises the reputation of the film itself and the company that released the DVD. I have contacted Criterion and recommended pulling this release from among their offerings and making every effort to correct its deficiencies if at all possible.
| 
