听 There are some suitably intense undercurrents in this Scorsese film thanks to the screenplay by Paul "Taxi Driver" Schrader. Add the magnetic Nicolas Cage and a superb supporting cast and you have a wickedly dark thriller with some surprisingly comedic overtones.
Scorcese's visceral flair dominates this film and this DVD mastering brings out the very finest detail despite the primarily night-time settings. The lighting frequently comes from strip neon or streetlights but despite the often intense tones the picture remains sharp and vibrant throughout.
The 5.1 track is equally impressive, with Elmer Bernstein's understated score subtle and warm. Sound effects are unobtrusive, creating superb atmosphere although when the film demands it there's plenty for your amp to bang out.
Included on the DVD is a short featurette, which apart from the standard fawning interviews contains some interesting information. This includes comments by Scorsese on how the film is based on real stories.
Overall, you couldn't ask for a better picture or sound quality but if the US release contains the trailer then why can't the UK disc have it too? It's not a big thing but why be so cheap?
Chapters: 30
Ratio: 2.35.1
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Extra Features: Scene selection, featurette, multiple languages and subtitles, English for the hearing impaired.
