> That's "Original Aspect Ratio" -- the size the movie was originally (or intended) to be shown in theaters.
>
> Letterboxing vs. Pan and Scan:
> If you don't understand the reasoning behind letterboxing, try this. What's the size of a television screen? Square (ish). What's the size of a movie screen? Rectangular.
>
> Now, how would you fit a rectangular movie fit on a square(ish) television screen? You'd make it smaller to fit within the available space.
>
> "I hate the black bars!"
> What you should realize is that they aren't covering up any of the movie. If anything, when you watch a movie on television, you're usually watching a movie that's cropping off the left and right sides.


I have to say, the advent of DVD has opened this right up as you now most often get the choice whether to view letterbox or pan-n-scan. The only trouble I find is that my better half generally wants pan-n-scan and I want letterbox!

Be "kind to your nose and don't have unnecessary rhinopl" asty