听 You might not imagine Bogart as a truck driver, yet you'll find him in that unlikely role as well as starring in a flop that's now recognised as a screen classic, and meeting his future real-life wife. With all three films presented like never before, along with well-researched extra features, this is another essential boxset for fans of Bogey.
They Drive By Night (1940)
The shady world of wildcat truck driving is the background for this B-movie, which finally gave Bogart a part to relish rather than playing a stooge due for a bullet. The film's disjointed feel is revealed in the 'making of' featurette as being down to two different scripts welded together. While Bogey gets his dues, the featurette also quite rightly focuses on the careers of Ida Lupino - who steals the film - and George Raft, who by this point was sick of the tough guy roles he always played. The movie suffers from a slightly battered print, but along with an average mono soundtrack, is quite acceptable.
EXTRA FEATURES
To Have And Have Not (1944)
If you don't know the amusing story behind why Howard Hawks made this film, then we'll save the surprise for when you watch the 'making of' featurette on this Bogey love story. Out of all the discs, the featurette here has the most fascinating anecdotes to enjoy - especially concerning how Lauren Bacall got her smouldering look, and who was wooing who behind the scenes. As for the film, the print is in good condition and the mono sound is clear.
EXTRA FEATURES
The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre (1948)
Humphrey Bogart headed for the hills in this tough gold prospecting drama that didn't win over audiences due to the downbeat plot. Despite it being a flop, Jack Warner thought it was the best picture Warner Bros had ever made, and appropriately the DVD gets the most special features in this boxset. First up is a fact-filled commentary from Bogey expert Eric Lax, who recounts many interesting stories about the Mexico-obsessed John Huston. Also on the disc is a fine 45-minute documentary telling the story of a difficult production (the movie was years in the making). The film itself boasts a clear picture transfer and strong mono sound.
EXTRA FEATURES
This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.
