A major studio release in its day, "The Carpetbaggers" was adapted from Harold Robbins' best-seller by John Michael Hayes, who had by then become one of Hollywood's top screenwriters before bowing out from his profession two years later, via "Nevada Smith," a prequel to "Carpetbaggers."

Directed by Edward Dmytryk, and starring an exceptionally assembled cast, Paramount's DVD offers a brilliant transfer, showcasing Joseph MacDonald's rich Panavision cinematography. Sporting a new 5.1 mix, the discreet Dolby tracks are very active, nicely separating dialogue, sound effects, and Elmer Bernstein's thunderous orchestral/jazz score. (A mono mix is also included for those preferring a more rudimentary mix, but why do that to Elmer?)

© 2003 Mark R. Hasan