Well gang, you will have to forgive the brevity of this review because, frankly, I don't feel particularly inspired. That is not to say this is not a terrific movie. Most of you have already seen it and know it is definitely that. If you haven't seen it, I'm certain you have heard or read one of the million or so gushing reviews done since the picture was released. The problem is the disc release from MCA/Universal seems so terribly ordinary.
The THX approved transfer is very good, but not great. Colors are strong though some of the more intense hues seem to lose a little definition and there is a bit of chroma noise here and there. I also find the image to be just the least bit soft from time to time. Nothing really objectionable but it definitely lacks the "snap" of a number of other recent transfers. Contrast and brightness are excellent, however. They also got the ratio right. I measure it spot on 2.35:1.
The soundtrack is first rate. There is some honest low end here and the mids and highs are clean and clear. The mix is a lively one with a number of nice directional effects and very effective use of the surround channel.
To add to the "plain Jane" impression, the two-disc set is packaged in a single sleeve jacket. The 140 minute film is spread to 3 CLV sides with 57 chapters. No trailer or other extras are included. I mean, c'mon. Would a gatefold jacket with some expanded liner notes on the inner spread and a lousy trailer have added that much to the cost? As it is, they want $45 bucks for the thing. No telling what they will want for the "deluxe" edition.
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