Darabont is so in tune with King and his vision that no other writer-director should ever be approached for the job. Definitely one of the best films of 1999. Absolutely stunning anamorphic digital transfer. The images are exceptional, with lifelike colors and flesh tones, industrial strength blacks that never fade or waver, and amazing depth of field. Colors are warm but vivid, with excellent saturation.
Earth tones are natural, while whites and grays are clean thanks to a pristine original negative.
No noise, artifacts or dirt. The frame is alive with contrast, including attention to detail that is almost exact. A lot of the film takes place in shadows, and not once are the blacks compromised. Except for an occasional soft edge, the picture quality is excellent. The Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround soundtrack is so perfectly mixed and distributed that you will feel like you're trapped in the cellblock with the characters.