The version I saw was the three hour cut and in high quality. It must have been restored and preserved at some point.
Never having seen the two hour version, I do have to say that this film dragged for me.
No particular scene felt long or shot overstayed its welcome. Its simply due to the story not being sufficiently qualified for three hours. Not enough takes place.
There's certainly plenty of momentum during the first hour but once the scene is set, it takes two hours to play out.
Despite beautiful locations, albeit with isolating conditions, solid performances, wonderful sets and costumes, it was all at the expense of a plodding pace.
For those introduced to the film with the shorter version, this three hour cut must be fascinating but having never seen it I can only say that it was drawn out for too long to its rather obvious conclusion. I can see why they wanted it shortened originally.
A lot to enjoy, for certain. I don't believe Jordan ever received his due. He's great in this. (And was outstanding in Gettysburg).
Quality filmmaking. Just not a classic.
Never having seen the two hour version, I do have to say that this film dragged for me.
No particular scene felt long or shot overstayed its welcome. Its simply due to the story not being sufficiently qualified for three hours. Not enough takes place.
There's certainly plenty of momentum during the first hour but once the scene is set, it takes two hours to play out.
Despite beautiful locations, albeit with isolating conditions, solid performances, wonderful sets and costumes, it was all at the expense of a plodding pace.
For those introduced to the film with the shorter version, this three hour cut must be fascinating but having never seen it I can only say that it was drawn out for too long to its rather obvious conclusion. I can see why they wanted it shortened originally.
A lot to enjoy, for certain. I don't believe Jordan ever received his due. He's great in this. (And was outstanding in Gettysburg).
Quality filmmaking. Just not a classic.