Everyone is well aware of
how often the same films are re-packaged and re-sold. First we’ll get a
special edition, then a director’s cut, then the ULTIMATE edition with
hours of never-before-seen footage and outtakes. The truth is, there
really is little difference between each of these releases, other than
a new facade. The entertainment and home video companies have been in
the same rut for years. They’ll resurrect a popular 80s teen movie or a
recent blockbuster with an illusion to make it look like you’re getting
something new. In reality, you aren’t, but consumers still flock to buy
the same movie over and over.
In the wake of this practice, many classic films are sitting in a vault and rotting away, having never even seen a single DVD release, much less numerous releases. For many people, especially the current generation, a DVD release is the only way these films will be seen again. TCM does a fantastic job with running classic films, but there are many that have never been shown and are almost forgotten. We didn’t want that to happen to Leila’s films.
We’ve started a petition, directed at Warner Brothers and MGM, to release the Leila Hyams films in their catalog on DVD. We will eventually have to start one for Paramount as well, seeing as how they hold the rights to a few of her films. For the most part, WB and MGM have the stronghold. To date, roughly four of Leila’s films have seen a DVD release. Those are: Freaks, Sins of the Children, Red Headed Woman and Spite Marriage. To some, four DVD releases doesn’t sound half bad…until you remember that Leila has a total of 52 movies to her credit. That means there are 48 films still hidden away from public appreciation, including the films considered “lost”.
We ask that you please sign the Leila Hyams DVD petition and send the link to as many people as possible. Every name counts! Thank you!
Our online radio interview! Cohen Phillips of DCR Radio did an impromptu interview with us about Leila.