Todd Phillips brings television cops Starsky and Hutch to the big screen with this affectionate action comedy that stars Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson as the title duo. The film debuts on DVD with a widescreen anamorphic transfer that preserves the original theatrical aspect ratio of the film. The seventies-style clothing comes across just as vividly at home as it did on the big screen. English and French soundtracks are both available, while English, French, and Spanish subtitles can be accessed. Supplemental materials include a commentary track by the director. Phillips spends the majority of the track discussing how great his actors are and revealing many of the obscure references to the old series made during the course of the film. A short featurette with Snoop Dogg about the costumes he wore in the movie, a blooper reel, the original theatrical trailer, and a very funny mock-featurette on the making of the film (in which all the interviewees pretend that they hated working together) round out this solid release from Warner Bros.

The South Park animated television show has cultivated an enormous following, and this crudely funny and supremely foul-mouthed spin-off movie has been given competent if less than extravagant DVD treatment. The minimalist animation that is the trademark of South Park does not exemplify the wonders of DVD as well as the likes of Fantasia 2000, but South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut blends in some impressive CGI that really comes into its own in the smooth, anamorphic widescreen transfer. Sound-wise, there is a choice of Dolby 5.1 or Surround Sound, which ensures that the marvelous musical numbers (not to mention the expletives) can be heard in crystal clarity. Unfortunately there are few additional features of any note. The menu screen is amusing, and scene access is deftly handled, plus those of a hardy disposition may enjoy watching the film with the subtitles on (watch those obscenities roll by!). However, the trailers are of limited appeal, the teaser in particular suffering without the surprise element that made it funny in cinemas. Though a commentary would perhaps not have worked, a little background to the film would have been welcome, particularly given the involvement of George Clooney, Minnie Driver, and the rest. This DVD will probably be essential for most South Park fans, but it is still something of a missed opportunity.

Peter Segal directs Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore in the fine romantic comedy 50 First Dates. The film is presented in a widescreen anamorphic transfer that preserves the original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.40:1. The image on the disc is faithful to Jack Green's fine cinematography, which lovingly captures Hawaii at its most beautiful. English and French soundtracks are written in Dolby Digital 5.1. English and French subtitles are accessible. Supplemental materials include a commentary track written by Segal and Barrymore. This is an entertaining track mostly because the two of them are very loquacious and obviously enjoy each other's company. Those who are charmed by Barrymore's public persona will not be disappointed. Deleted scenes with optional commentary, a blooper reel, and a smattering of featurettes round out this solid release of an unexpectedly charming film.