听 Now that we've had DVD around for a few years, it's becoming clear that there are discs that come packed with any old rubbish, and discs that come with something worth seeing. "Romeo + Juliet" sits in the latter category.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
Picture You don't think that Fox would go to all the trouble they have with this release and then slap on a lousy picture transfer? Well, you're right. They didn't.
Sound So maybe we can tear into the 5.1 mix? Apparently not, as this, along with the mix for the "Moulin Rouge" DVD, is all about creating the sensation of movement, which this track does well. Watch out for the fireworks scene - nearly killed off a DVD reviewer and a subwoofer too.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Audio Commentary Writer and director Baz Luhrmann is joined by co-writer Craig Pearce, art designer Catherine Martin and cinematographer Don McAlpine for a lively commentary that has quite a technical slant to it. Those of you familiar with the film will remember all the clever advertising and branding in the movie and it's discussed at length here, along with the general ambition to make Shakespeare cool again.
Director's Gallery This section divides into a number of featurettes, a few of which involve Baz filmed at a seminar, explaining how he pitched the film to the executives hoping for "Strictly Ballroom 2", with the advice not to mention that the film had anything to do with Shakespeare. He's a funny speaker, and well worth watching. A number of scenes are also dissected into rehearsal, staging and the actual final shooting, giving you a meaningful way to look at the construction of various moments in the film, rather than just a load of random behind-the-scenes footage.
Cinematographer's Gallery Somewhat smaller and less impressive than the Director's Gallery, here you'll find images and explanatory text of what Don McAlpine was trying to achieve on the shoot.
Design Gallery This section has to be one of the all-time best in DVD design, understanding the aims of the film that are being dissected. All the branding, guns, and overall design of the movie is explored here, and it's beautifully done. Animated galleries set to music take you through the conceptual process behind the look of the movie.
Interview Gallery A series of short interviews await your hovering finger. More than likely you'll skip through the dull cast interviews - "my character is" - but watch the crew pieces, which add further thoughts to the making of the movie (by this point, you'll be an expert).
Marketing How do you market a film that is all about branding? Find out here with conceptual poster designs, TV spots and a trailer.
Additional Extra Features Music videos. DVD-ROM Features: Screenplay to movie comparison.
Region: 2
Chapters: 29
Ratio: 2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1 and 2.0 surround
Technical Features: Scene selection, animated menus, and English captions for the hearing impaired.
This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-S57 DVD player.
