Cinema Retro has received advance copies of the forthcoming restored roadshow version of Robert Wise's 1966 epic The Sand Pebbles. The film, which was widely praised at the time of its released, has basically been snubbed by the critical establishment ever since. In fact, it is one of the greatest films of the 1960s- and if you doubt why, just sample this Fox special edition DVD. The film is a tremendous achievement on all levels and has fanatical grass roots support among movie fans. In fact a web site dedicated to the film (www.thesandpebbles.com) has lobbied for years for the restoration of the movie. Happily, that goal has now been fulfilled magnificently. There may be a more impressive DVD release of a classic film this year, but I'll believe it when I see it.