It had two sets of labels on the heads of each reel; both labels read "Dolby Distribution Services." The first were, "Select Print" with "Title", "Select Print #" (1), "Reel #", "Lab Print #", "Grade", and "Destination" (blank). The next set were, "General Release Print Reel" with "Reel", "Title", "Grade", "Lab Print #".

I wasn't aware that Dolby did reel grading or similar services (?). Grades included A, B, and B-. All reels were uncut, and many had hand cues over lab cues (including two hand cues on some frames, I can't understand why).

I assume the pairing of labels means it started out as a "select" print and then was converted to general release after the film opened? Seemed odd that it was uncut if it really was a general release print... I also wonder at "select" print having reels graded down to B-. One would assume they would pull all A's.

Also, does anyone have a reference to the A, B, etc. style of grading?

Thanks.

------------------
John P. Pytlak, Senior Technical Specialist
Worldwide Technical Services, Entertainment Imaging
Research Labs, Building 69, Room 7525A
Rochester, New York, 14650-1922 USA
Tel: +1 585 477 5325 Cell: +1 585 781 4036 Fax: +1 585 722 7243
e-mail: john.pytlak@kodak.com
Web site: here Kodak Website

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Contact would be Tim Schafbuch:
here

As you may know, the Kodak Cinema Operations (ScreenCheck) Program also offers services to distributors and theatres:
here Kodak Cinema Evaluation
here Kodak Cinema Operations Team

------------------
John P. Pytlak, Senior Technical Specialist
Worldwide Technical Services, Entertainment Imaging
Research Labs, Building 69, Room 7525A
Rochester, New York, 14650-1922 USA
Tel: +1 585 477 5325 Cell: +1 585 781 4036 Fax: +1 585 722 7243
e-mail: john.pytlak@kodak.com
Web site: here Kodak Website

I'm still a little puzzled how a formerly "select" print makes it into the general pool, and how I end up receiving it before anyone with a platter. Not that I'm complaining!

--jhawk