I just bought the Criterion blu ray and it comes in three aspect ratios, 1.33, 1.66, and 1.85. I was wondering what the "definitive" aspect ratio that Kazan mainly intended it to be shown in. Also, is the 1.33 or 1.66 just cropped from the 1.85 or is it similar to an open matte presentation?
shareCompared to the original negative, 1.66:1 and 1.85:1 are matted (thus 1.33:1 is an open matte).
1.85:1 was how the film was premiered in 1954 and was preferred by Columbia Pictures at the time.
1.66:1 was what Boris Kauffman would use in later films such as *12 Angry Men* and *The Fugitive Kind*.
Personally I like 1.66:1 as it provides enough environmental context (like the 1.33:1) while still providing a clear image composition. But when it's all said and done, any of them look great.
And as I'm one who labours to provide sources: http://youtu.be/s7-aMi4Rr-4