Utilizing the industry's top technology and backed by a team with decades of combined experience, Picture Shop’s mastering & restoration team is focused on reviving storytellers’ visions from yesterday to their original glory, remastering classics from their original elements to the premium formats of today and tomorrow.
The restoration of a classic film requires more than technical expertise. It requires an understanding of the creative decisions that shaped the original work, as well as careful consideration of the elements available today. For Picture Shop Senior Colorist Mike Underwood, the process begins with one fundamental priority: remaining true to the filmmaker's original vision.
“When I restore a film like Cinderella or Mrs. Doubtfire, my goal is simple: bring back the look that was originally intended. Whenever possible, we loop in the director. Chris Columbus approved the final look on Mrs. Doubtfire, and for Cinderella, we worked closely with Michael Giaimo from Disney Animation, even tracking down an original print to guide the look and feel.”
The same philosophy came into play when Mike restored the original 1982 Tron, a project that presented its own set of challenges.
“Restoring the original 1982 Tron was filled with challenges. I worked from 6K scans, a mix of 65mm and Vista Vision — both large-format widescreen aspect ratios — and had the privilege of collaborating with director Steven Lisberger. Together, we brought a bright, vivid look to the film that Steven had always envisioned, but couldn't fully achieve back in 1982.”
Understanding the original film is an important part of that process. For Mike, one of the best ways to establish that foundation is to return to a good print whenever possible.
“My top priority when restoring and mastering old films is staying true to the director's original vision. We like to bring the director in whenever we can, and I always try to screen the film first using a good print — it's the best way to understand what we're trying to achieve.”
From Cinderella and Mrs. Doubtfire to the original Tron, these projects reflect the balance at the heart of mastering and restoration: using today's technology and expertise while maintaining a connection to the original creative work. At Picture Shop, that means approaching each restoration with the goal of preserving the filmmaker's vision for audiences today and for generations to come.