Sometimes, even the best intentions can lead to unexpected results. Paramount recently found itself in hot water after fans noticed something…off about a scene in the remastered I Love Lucy Blu-ray box set. Released last month, the collection was meant to bring the iconic 1950s sitcom into the HD era. But a specific moment in the episode Lucy Takes a Cruise to Havana from the Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour specials instead sparked a wave of criticism online.
The Scene That Stood Out (For the Wrong Reasons)
Screenshots from the episode went viral, showing background characters who looked bizarrely over-enhanced. Instead of staying blurred in the background, their faces were unnervingly sharp and distorted—think bulging eyes, unnatural smiles, and a smoothness that felt out of place. It’s a small moment, but one that distracted from the charm of the show’s leads, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.
Naturally, fans took to Reddit and social media, speculating that artificial intelligence was behind the mishap. After all, AI tools often struggle with depth of field, attempting to sharpen what isn’t meant to be in focus.
Paramount’s Explanation
Paramount quickly addressed the issue, confirming the background faces were “accidentally over-enhanced” during the restoration process. However, they denied that generative AI was involved, clarifying that the restoration relied on manual processes. The studio promised to release an updated version of the Blu-ray set to correct the mistake.
A Massive Undertaking
This Blu-ray release wasn’t just about touching up a few frames. The restoration team spent four years working on the entire series, combining original 35mm negatives, 16mm reels, and even videotape to reconstruct the episodes in stunning HD. They even tracked down missing footage and repaired damaged frames to make the show look as pristine as possible.
The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour specials, included in the set, were remastered for the first time, and many fans have praised the collection overall for its quality. But it’s this one scene that has stolen the spotlight, at least for now.
What’s Next?
If you’ve already purchased the Blu-ray box set, Paramount says fixes are on the way. While the restoration hiccup may have sparked some laughs, it’s clear the studio is committed to getting it right.
This little misstep hasn’t diminished I Love Lucy’s legacy—it’s still as timeless and beloved as ever. And who knows? Maybe this viral moment will inspire new fans to check out the classic sitcom for themselves.
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