NewDeep wrote:Was it originally released in theatres in academy ratio (4:3)?
The Godfather I was released theatrically at widescreen ratio 1.85:1. If you are a purist of how it was shown theatrically, then that's the ratio to go with.
NewDeep wrote:The DVDs BDs are all 1.78:1 or 1.85:1.
The movie was originally shot by cinematographer Gordon Willis in 35mm full frame (~1.37:1), but planned for theatrical ratio of around 1.85:1, and thus composed accordingly. However, each scene was shot so they work for a more
open matting, and projectionists have some leeway.
Thus, when it comes to DVDs/BDs,
they have opened up the frame to accommodate the aspect ratio native to anamorphic widescreen DVDs and widescreen televisions.
NewDeep wrote:Was the Godfather I VHS in uncropped 4:3?
Not exactly, it seems to be more a mix to me, when I look at
comparisons. Some shots are opened up at the top/bottom, while others are cropped on the sides, and then others have both.