Reviewer's Rating 2 out of 5 Ìý User Rating 4 out of 5
Brazil DVD (1985)

An administrative error turns into an extraordinary nightmare in Terry Gilliam's stunning flight of fantasy, "Brazil", which has been long overdue a DVD release in the UK. Now it's here, we find out it's distinctly lukewarm when compared to the US release.

TECHNICAL FEATURES

Picture Where this DVD does score points is in picture quality, which is clear, rich in colour, and fresh in appearance.

Sound Flat and uninvolving, the sound quality on offer is not only unambitious, but distorts slightly at higher volume levels.

SPECIAL FEATURES

What is Brazil? Made during the production of the movie, this 30-minute documentary attempts to find out from cast and crew what "Brazil" is actually about. "It's half a dream and half a nightmare," says Jonathan Pryce, while Michael Palin reckons it to be "a rather chilling reality".

Rather more interesting is the frank manner with which this programme deals with the movie's script problems. Tom Stoppard is interviewed on his draft, and defiantly remarks that his method of writing didn't suit Gilliam, snapping, "I haven't seen what script they're shooting."

There's also plenty of behind-the-scenes footage, including the special effects work.

Additional Extra Features Also on the DVD is a trailer.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Region: 2
Chapters: 20
Ratio: 1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 2.0
Audio Tracks: English
Subtitles: Multiple languages
Captions: English
Menus: Static and silent
Special Features Subtitles: "What is Brazil?" comes with subtitles, the trailer does not.

This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-S57 DVD player.

End Credits

Director: Terry Gilliam

Writer: Terry Gilliam, Charles McKeown, Tom Stoppard

Stars: Jonathan Pryce, Robert De Niro, Katherine Helmond, Ian Holm, Bob Hoskins

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

Length: 142 minutes

Cinema: 1985

DVD: 19 May 2003

Country: UK