A method for enhancing video or other multimedia in order to achieve a
closer-to-movie theater viewing experience. The enhancement method can be
applied to YUV or other video formats which are used for TV or digital
media. The method provides a curve with at least one inflection point
such that at least one region has a concave upward arc and another region
has a concave downward arc. The improved curve provides relatively less
contrast in relatively dark regions and relatively more contrast in
relatively bright regions. By taking into account the visual sensitivity
to various luminance levels, a neutral point is selected to be located at
a relatively dark point. To the darker side of the neutral point,
luminance is suppressed. To the brighter side of the neutral point,
luminance is enhanced. This luminance-mapping curve is applied to the
luminance (Y) signal so as to enhance both brightness and contrast.