laureatedvd.com

[J.Keith]

Congratulations on the Laureate Collection. Just bought "The Big Trees" - and I now have all six of your releases to date. All I can say is keep up the good work.

Looking at the gorgeous technicolour transfer of "Trees ," I wonder if there is any chance of you releasing its forerunner "Valley Of The Giants," which, I'm told, is a better movie.

A happy and productive 2002 to all at Laureate.

James Keith.

[Ken Barnes]

Dear James,
I don't think there's much chance of seeing the 1938 "Valley of The Giants" on DVD. It was a prestigious film in 1938 - being Warner Bros' third venture into technicolor.

Actually, I'm not sure if it is a better film than "The Big Trees " - but it certainly contains more action. Director William Keighley handled all of "Giant's" big set pieces with more vigour and panache than Felix Fiest's attempts in "Trees." But the latter film has better dialogue and an exuberant central performance from Kirk Douglas.

Also, it should be noted that Warners lost all interest in "Giants" after "Trees" had been released in 1952. The other point to remember- and this is the saddest thing of all - is that 50% of the feature films made before 1950 are now badly deteriorated and said to be beyond restoration.

Your interest and support are much appreciated.
All the best for 2002

Regards
Ken Barnes