Director Christopher Nolan's clever, and at times puzzling, thriller Memento is presented on DVD, but the real mystery is why more wasn't done with this acclaimed film on a format that practically invites innovation. On the bright side, the image is first-rate, with an anamorphic transfer framed at the original aspect ratio of 2.35:1. There are few signs that this was a lower budget independent film, as the picture is sharp, with little wear, and constantly conveys the theatrical experience. Offering both Dolby Digital 5.1 and two-channel surround tracks, the sound on this release is also well defined. Though there is a very limited use of the rear speakers, all other sounds are clearly reproduced up front. Fans of this intelligent film highly anticipated a special edition, but their hopes were quickly squashed by the reality that supplemental materials are unfortunately rather thin. The main extra is a 23-minute IFC interview with director Christopher Nolan covering this film, his previous movie Following, and his influences. The remaining features are brief and less interesting, including a comparison of the tattoos with original concept art, a section that allows viewing of elements from the movie's website, theatrical trailers for this film and the aforementioned Following, a television spot, and some brief cast and director biographies. Finally -- and curiously not mentioned on the box -- the full original story from Jonathan Nolan that inspired the movie is included. This is unquestionably a film that begs for an audio commentary, or at least an in-depth documentary. Sadly, they are not included, though with the way things work, expect a special edition sometime down the line.
Customer Rating
5
Sheer Genius!
on September 24, 2007
Posted by: benjamyn47
from Bellingham, WA
Brilliance. Nolan created a movie you can watch over and over and still always find something new. Definitely a thinking person's movie.
Very well done. Mel Gibson's talent for directing almost exceeds that for acting. A great story and a great visual presentation. Definitely worth checking out.
This is definitely Leo's best performance. I wasn't quite sure what to expect when walking into the theater, but I was instantly hooked. Ed Zwick has long been one of my favorite directors and he certainly doesn't disappoint here.
It's so hard to watch Lost because you can't stop. The DVD is certainly the way to go-- no commercials and no having to wait a week for the next episode. I wish they would all be released as 24hr movies... I'd pay to watch that in a theater!
I'd not been the biggest fan of Ryan Gosling until I happened upon Half Nelson. He is phenomenal in the role of a drug-addicted history teacher. Newcomer Shareeka Epps is also great in her role. Anthony Mackie is always good and is definitely consistent here. The movie may move slow for some, but there is plenty to appreciate about it.
Rediscover the lost art of ventriloquism as voice throwing funnyman Jeff Dunham keeps audiences laughing with a little assistance from three inanimate friends who aren't nearly as wooden as their outer facades may lead you to believe. From the curmudgeonly complaints of his elderly friend to the hilarious rants of his purple pal from the Micronesian Islands and a jalapeno pepper with a self-effacing sense of humor, there's no shortage of aching sides when Dunham takes the stage. Parents be warned though, Dunham's edgy sense of humor certainly isn't for the small fry.
Customer Rating
5
Hilarious!
on September 20, 2007
Posted by: benjamyn47
from Bellingham, WA
It had been a while since I cried at a comedian's performance. What Jeff Dunham is able to do is just amazing and incredibly funny. Of course Walter and Peanut are the best, but the other puppets are fun to see. The outtakes alone are reason enough to buy the DVD. Don't miss his new one "Jeff Dunham: Spark of Insanity" when it comes out!
This season has one of the best episodes of all time: Marie's Sculpture. The entire season is hilarious and well worth the cost. Wonderful writing and acting kept this show on for a long time.
Ray Romano's hit sitcom about the ups and downs of family life comes to DVD with this well-appointed box set. The episodes on Everybody Loves Raymond: The Complete First Season have been transferred to disc in their original full-frame aspect ratio of 1.33:1, and the audio has been mastered in Dolby Digital Stereo. In addition to the original English-language soundtracks, each episode features alternate dubbed tracks in French and Spanish, while optional subtitles in English, French, and Spanish are also included. Bonus materials include commentary tracks on selected episodes by Ray Romano and the show's creator Phil Rosenthal, three short featurettes on the production of the show's first season, and an appearance by Romano on the Late Show with David Letterman which helped inspire the series.
Customer Rating
5
Great Show
on September 19, 2007
Posted by: benjamyn47
from Bellingham, WA
What a fantastic show! ELR finds humor in the smallest of things and is able to draw the big laughs without need for strong language or perversion. Two thumbs up for season 1!
Giving comedian Ray Romano a television show was one of the smartest decisions in TV history. The ability to find unique humor in every family situation was the show's specialty. The only thing bad about the 9th season is that it's the last one.
Shane Black has proven himself as a writer time and time again over the years. In his directorial debut, he proves himself a master of both crafts. KKBB has some of the most clever writing in a long time, delivered flawlessly by Robert Downey, Jr. and Val Kilmer. This movie is amazingly smart and witty. Though it was given very little publicity, this is one of the best movies of the year.