The second entry in director Aki Kaurismäki's "Finland Trilogy," the black comedy The Man Without a Past comes to DVD from Columbia TriStar with a widescreen transfer. The Dolby Digital 5.0 soundtrack is available in the original Finnish language with English subtitles. The only special feature is the theatrical trailer, but this is still a fine release of an award-winning film that received very few screenings in the U.S.

One of the prime examples of the British New Wave film explosion of the 1960s, director John Schlesinger's chronicle of the hopelessly in-his-head Billy is given a wonderful rebirth on DVD that will hopefully introduce a whole new generation to the film's wily charms. The remastered black-and-white print (taken from the original fine-grain master) is available in its original widescreen glory of 2.35:1 and it sure looks great. Some of the blacks appear a bit soft at times, but the transfer is miles ahead of any previous video release. The picture has been enhanced for widescreen television as well. The two-channel English mono soundtrack has also been revamped and it sounds fine, keeping dialogue always clear and balanced. Though they are intended for the deaf and hearing impaired, English subtitles have been included for those who find that the thick English accents are a bit too difficult to decipher. A fascinating video excerpt from the BBC program Hollywood U.K.: British Cinema in the Sixties has been included, hosted by Brit Richard Lester. The video helps put into perspective the importance of British film during this time period, as well as putting Billy Liar into its proper historical place. But the best thing on the disc is the commentary track with Schlesinger and stars Tom Courtenay and Julie Christie. Unfortunately each participant was recorded separately. But the tracks have been edited together nicely, making their different takes on the film seem unified without creating too much overlap. Christie's comments tend to be the must illuminating, though the others' views are also worthwhile and interesting. One of the best things about the track is how each participant holds a different view concerning the ending. Great stuff overall and a disc well-worth picking up. Also included is the original theatrical trailer.