For the second time in as many weeks, the folks at Paramount have shown us just how good the venerable analog laserdisc really is. Previously, 'Mission: Impossible' wowed us with a stunning disc presentation and now we have an equally amazing experience in 'The Phantom'.
Released this past summer to generally positive reviews, 'The Phantom' was largely ignored at the box office. Though I thoroughly enjoyed this film in its theatrical presentation, this new disc, in many ways, is a more enjoyable experience. With its beautiful widescreen photography and elaborate action sequences, some of the more subtle nuances of the characterizations (such as they are) tend to be overwhelmed. The smaller scale of the home screen gives the story a bit more balance. Directed by Simon Wincer and written by Jeffrey Boam, the film stars Billy Zane, an over-the-top Treat Williams and Kristy Swanson. Filled with terrific action, great sets, gorgous locations and likable characters, this 'The Phantom' is sure to please for a long time to come.
The THX approved widescreen transfer for this disc is, quite simply, flawless. Colors are perfect. Contrast and brightness is perfect. Sharpness and detail is perfect. From the dense jungle to the night shrouded streets of the big city, every detail is rendered with all the clarity and precision one can rightly expect from video. The wide Panavision frame is accurately transferred with a spot-on aspect ratio of 2.35:1.
As for the audio on this disc, as a reviewer, I find myself in a difficult position. When I listen to the 2-track Dolby Surround mix, I hear what I would have once considered a great soundtrack. Wide dynamics, clear dialog, good directionality and aggressive surround envelopement. All the elements of a great soundtrack are there. But, after a few minutes of the spectacular Dolby Digital track, matrixed surround just doesn't measure up. Now that the discrete digital formats have been around for a few years, I have noticed a marked improvement in the quality of multi-track mixes. 'The Phantom' is a perfect example. The greatest benefit of the discrete formats is the ability to place any sound in any channel without the technical limitations of the matrix process getting in the way. The sound designers on this film make full use of this capability. I do not recall any film I have seen that uses the split surrounds as actively or effectively.
'The Phantom' runs 100 minutes and the disc contains 20 chapters. The side break is very well placed. No trailer or other extras are included (this is Paramount after all). List price is $39.95.
'The Phantom' is a fun movie and this is a fabulous disc. What more could you want. Highly recommended.
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