I don't own the DVD as I refuse to buy it unless it is a widescreen version. Sign the widescreen petition please
Most of my viewing experience has been from TV broadcasts, a VHS copy, and rentals of the laserdisc and DVD.
Warner Bros did a terrible transfer on this film, compared to the laserdisc. I couldn't tell you if the look is intentional or not, having never seen the film in the theatre.
Keep in mind that there are stability problems with many of the film stocks used in the late 70's and early 80's.