(A-) If one looks close enough, there is some slight overall pixelation throughout the entire picture (as well as a few random film artifacts) but none of it's too noticeable or distracting. Despite the intentional use of a mostly drab color palette (to emulate the look of many European films), for the most part the picture looks great, with lots of detail even in the darkly/dimly lit scenes.
AUDIO:
(A+) From the ever-present score that's reminiscent of many 1960's and '70's action dramas/thrillers to the great and effective use of sound effects (such as during the many car chases and gun battles), the audio is superb and makes full and impressive use of its entire dynamic range.
EXTRAS:
Scene selection/Jump to any scene.
Running audio commentary by director John Frankenheimer.
Alternate ending — Under two minutes and extremely pixelated.
DVD-ROM Feature — An online replay of a live event with Frankenheimer recorded on 3/14/99.
Booklet Insert — Contains some photos and text pages concerning the production.
COMMENTS:
Featuring enough vehicular mayhem during its extended car chase sequences to fill several movies from the 70's when that cinematic device was most popular, the film is occasionally riveting and
thrilling. Overall, however, it comes off as a somewhat muddled yarn that's more tease than delivery, and many viewers might be disappointed that the film and its mysterious and curiosity evoking beginning never really delivers.
The disc does contain our favorite supplemental addition -- running audio commentary by the director. While John Frankenheimer's discussion often contains long passages of silence, what's there is insightful. What's missing, however, is some behind the scenes/making of footage that would have nicely complemented his comments — especially anything detailing the many amazing car chase sequences that were filmed at full speed.
Nonetheless, action fans should find this film to their liking, and for those who long for the days of riveting car chases, you certainly won't go wrong with this picture.
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