HEAD ‘Andromeda’ Translates Well
The Michael Crichton best-seller “The Andromeda Strain,” which chronicles the fight against a lethal outer-space organism entering the Earth via a satellite probe, translates well to laser disc, 20 years after the film’s release.
Arthur Hill, David Wayne, James Olson and Kate Reid star in this science-fiction thriller, which still resonates with contemporary threats of germ and biological warfare. The MCA Universal Home Video release is letterboxed, with a watchable aspect ratio that works well on the home screen. Surprisingly, director Robert Wise’s varied use of split screen adapts nicely for home viewing in this format.
The G-rated film, which has digital sound and runs 2 hours,10 minutes, features extended play (no special features) on Sides 1 and 2, and standard play (freeze frame, slow motion and fast motion) on Side 3. The films boasts 19 chapter stops, including the “Andromeda Molecules,” which make for intriguing stop action. The 20th chapter stop is the theatrical trailer, which, ideally, should precede the film, but that’s a small quibble.
“The Andromeda Strain,” MCA Universal Home Video, letterboxed, digital sound; Sides 1 and 2 extended play, Side 3 standard play, $39.95.
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