COLUMBIA TRISTAR deserves a big hand for electing to give some of their "classic" titles the "SUPERBIT" treatment.  While older titles, like "FROM HERE TO ETERNITY" may have limited market potential, especially after already being released in a wonderful dvd presentation with extras already, the "SUPERBIT" treatment allows for even better image quality, as well as enhanced "DTS" sound!

It's no fluke that "FROM HERE TO ETERNITY" won an Oscar for "BEST PICTURE" in 1953.  It's a great film and worthy of being part of any film lover's dvd library.  Sure there are some instances wherein it borders on a soap opera atmosphere, but it's also got some stellar performances, and it's got a timeless magic to it that is certain to endear it to new, younger audiences who aren't privy to the kind of studio gems released long ago. 

The film takes place right before the attack on Pearl Harbor, focusing on several characters, serving in the military, and the conflicts each of them must deal with and overcome.  Montgomery Clift is incredible as Private Prewitt, a man nearly traumatized by his own men because he won't take part in a boxing match that they're counting on, in spite of his former triumphs as a boxer. Ol' Blue Eyes, Sinatra, himself plays the role which won him an Oscar, Private Maggio, a soldier with a devil-may-care attitude who's caught the attention of a ruthless Sargeant, played by Enest Borgnine.  And, of course, Burt Lancaster gives one of his most memorable performances, as well as takes part in one of the film's most memorable love scenes, as Sergeant Warden, a soldier having an affair with his CO's wife, Deborah Kerr. 

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has preserved the film's original 1.33:1 aspect ratio.  While there are some minor imperfections connected to the original film elements, this is a great looking transfer! The black&white cinematography is well complimented throughout the film.  There are some instances wherein the contrast lacks the black/gray discernment we'd have liked, it's still superior to any other presentation of the film, on television, or even in the prior "impressive" dvd release.  The "SUPERBIT" treatment has completely eliminated any sign of artifacts, present in that former release.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented a DTS 5.1 mix for this film, a marked improvement over the matrix surround offering previously available. While purists will take issue of remixing this film, the surround effects are terrific fun during the attack scenes, and the score is even more impressive through all speakers.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 

Another enhancement here lies in the Monaural track being offered.  The fidelity is noticeably improved over the previous version, offering incredible reproduction in every instance.  While gone are the extras, including the great commentary offered on the previous dvd version, this "SUPERBIT" still offers enough of a marked improvement to be highly recommended.