The Criterion Collection's laserdisc release of Midnight Cowboy wasn't just a transfer of a film; it was a cultural artifact in itself. For many, it represented the pinnacle of home video quality at the time, and the liner notes played a crucial role in enriching the viewing experience. While the exact contents may vary slightly depending on the specific pressing, the notes generally aimed to provide a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the film, its context, and its enduring legacy. This article delves into what those liner notes likely contained, drawing on common themes and elements present in other Criterion releases.
What Likely Featured in the Criterion LaserDisc Liner Notes for Midnight Cowboy
The liner notes for Criterion's Midnight Cowboy laserdisc release probably encompassed several key areas:
1. An Essay on the Film's Cultural Significance
A major component would have been an in-depth essay exploring the film's impact on cinema and society. This essay would likely have discussed:
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The film's groundbreaking depiction of homosexuality and marginalization: How did Midnight Cowboy challenge societal norms and taboos surrounding sexuality and poverty in 1960s America? The essay would likely analyze the film's portrayal of Joe Buck and Ratso Rizzo, exploring their complex relationship and the societal pressures they faced.
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John Schlesinger's directorial vision: The notes would have examined Schlesinger's stylistic choices, including his use of location shooting in New York City, his naturalistic acting style, and his ability to capture the grit and energy of the city's underbelly.
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The screenplay's adaptation of James Leo Herlihy's novel: The liner notes would likely explore the differences and similarities between the novel and the film adaptation, highlighting the choices made in translating the story to the screen.
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The film's lasting influence on subsequent cinematic works: The essay would delve into Midnight Cowboy's impact on filmmakers and its enduring presence in cinematic history. Its influence on independent filmmaking and gritty realism would certainly be a major topic.
2. Cast and Crew Biographies
The liner notes would have included concise biographies of key individuals involved in the production, including:
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Dustin Hoffman and Jon Voight: Detailed information on their careers and their performances in Midnight Cowboy, including casting anecdotes and insights into their character portrayals.
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John Schlesinger: A look at his career and his distinctive directorial approach, highlighting his other notable works.
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Walon Green (Screenwriter): An exploration of his contribution to the film's narrative and dialogue.
3. Technical Specifications & Production Details
Criterion releases often provide detailed information regarding the technical aspects of the transfer. This likely included:
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The laserdisc mastering process: A description of the care taken to ensure the highest quality image and sound possible for the laserdisc format.
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Aspect ratio and audio specifications: Exact details on the visual and audio presentation.
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List of bonus features (if any): While laserdiscs weren't as feature-rich as later formats, there might have been interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, or other supplementary material included.
4. Stills from the Film
The liner notes would have been complemented by a selection of stills from the film, showcasing key scenes and moments, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the narrative and visual style.
5. An Overview of the Criterion Collection
Finally, the notes probably included a brief overview of the Criterion Collection itself, highlighting its mission to preserve and celebrate important films.
In conclusion, the Criterion LaserDisc liner notes for Midnight Cowboy would have served as a valuable companion piece to the film itself, providing a scholarly and insightful exploration of a cinematic masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today. While the exact content remains largely undocumented online, piecing together information from similar Criterion releases reveals a highly probable and comprehensive package.
