My 2 cents worth:
That is if I understand you ---- 24x36 is a small format --- The only "real" way to get "that super special large format look" is to go out & get a medium or larger formatted camera --- They & their lenses are darn expensive -- most especially the digital versions - they are also big & heavy and only if I was a lot younger & single worth it!! ---- Currently the closest I see myself "somewhat" getting there will be with my upcoming purchase of Canon's 5Dsr --- But as they say "close" or better yet "just a little bit closer" only counts in Horse Shoes

You won't get the same effect in 35mm as large format. You can get into LF for $500 or less. The brands that are most popular are: Toyo, Calumet, Deardorff,(if you can find one) Graflex, Wista, and Horseman. Most of these will come with a lens but if not you want a 150mm one. That is standard for 4"X 5" LF cameras. You also need a light meter, film (100 ISO, box of 50) and a good tripod, no cheap stuff, you are now holding up a camera and lens that weigh around 10 lbs. get rid of the ball head for a pan and tilt type. Get at least 3 film holders (12 shots). The first few times you use it it'll be awkward but you settle into it. Buy the cheapest film to start with (Arista), and a focusing loupe. You will enjoy this type of photography but it is slower. Field cameras are made to use out in the field and View cameras are used in the studio but you can use the View camera outside and a few pro's prefer to.