Wiseguy on HDNET: How'd they do that?

[120inna55]

Wiseguy was one of my favorite TV series. I've caught a few episodes on HDNET. The PQ obviously blows away my DVD box sets. I just love film in HD.

The question is: How is the aspect ratio 16x9? This series running from 1987-90 was obviously 4x3. The few episodes I've seen on HDNET are not stretched in any way, and they don't seem to be cropped. I'm usually an OAR nut, but this looks nice. Is this an example of open-matte?

Thanks.

 

[dfergie]

Same way they did Hogans Heros... not sure how though...

 

[charper1]

Master film/tape was probably shot in Panavision and cropped for TV, now the DVDs and HD airings are made from the original masters.

 

[120inna55]

Master film/tape was probably shot in Panavision and cropped for TV, now the DVDs and HD airings are made from the original masters.

The DVDs are still 4:3 (at least the 2 sets I own).