For those photographers demanding the absolute highest quality images film can offer, large format has long been the answer. With the smallest standard film size being 4 inches by 5 inches, it's no wonder that the quality can be so much better. On an 8x10 print, a 4x5 negative is a mere 2x enlargement, where a 35mm negative is an 8.5x enlargement. Even 6x7 medium format negative cannot compare with a 3.6x enlargement at 8x10. Take into accout that there are large format cameras that take 5x7 and 8x10 film, and it's easy to understand how image quality can be so astounding.
Aside from large negatives, most large format cameras offer movements for perspective control. On field cameras and old press cameras, movements may be limited to limited rise, fall (with drop-bed), and tilt, but even these limited movements often allow photographers impressive freedom over controling perspective. In fact, the amount of rise, fall, and tilt is often as good as (or far better than) the movements found on expensive perspective control lenses for 35mm and medium format. As a result, the most demanding photographers often choose large format to obtain the absolute highest quality results and complete control over perspective.
But wait... If large format is such a Holy Grail of quality and control, why doesn't everybody use it? The problem is the size of the equipment, and the cost. While you can often buy a top notch 4x5 camera and lens for less than a medium format system, the cameras are far larger and heavier (hence less portable), and also more complex to work with. Additionally, while you can get something like a Speed Graphic with lens for only $300 or so, film costs of $2 or more per sheet of film plus hefty development costs quickly drives the cost of ownership up. As a result, large format tends to be used only by professionals who require the image quality, or serious amateurs who develop and print their own black and white film.
However, if the ultimate in image quality is your goal, or if you want to perfect your photography in the most challenging of mediums, large format provides the final answer.
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