Video
This region free, PAL version of Drive is easily the best available, simply because it has an anamorphic picture and is an uncut version of the film. The region 1, NTSC version is presented in Pan and Scan, and is cut by twelve minutes. Medusa Pictures has done well with this transfer, though I suppose the colours could stand a little more saturation, as it would add to the comic book ambiance. There are times during the finale that the décor would have benefited from a little overkill. The only real shortcoming is the sharpness, which occasionally verges on blurry.
Audio
Though the soundtrack reveals some of the well-hidden budget constraints, this Dolby Digital 5.1 track is still very aggressive. Directional effects are balanced, and dialogue is clear. There is little or no audio distortion. Though this isn't the most impressive track I've ever heard, it more than gets the job done. A special note is made on the box and during the documentary feature that this version includes the original Dave Williams score as part of the directors cut. This is the only place it is available.
Extras
The virtual plethora of features is headed by a semi-novice, but ultimately entertaining and informative documentary entitled "The Force Behind the Strom". The nearly fifty minute feature delves into all aspects of the film's making. This includes stories behind casting decisions, script changes, on set comradery, and a few near fatal flubs during filming. The most interesting bits are those that involve ways the crew dealt with the budget and time constraints (really, it looks like an 'A' picture, especially by 1995 pre-digital norm special effects), and the ultimate distributor butchery. Fortunately for myself, this was the first time I'd seen the film, as apparently the director's cut is by far the preferred version.
The feature length commentary includes the director, fight choreographer, and the two main stars. Kadeem Hardison basically dominates the track, as his voice and personality are the largest of the four participants, but director Wang manages to keep most of the track on focus. The track is playful, fun, and easy to listen to.
Also included is a collection of deleted scenes, an interview gallery, a photo gallery and the cast and crew bios. Most of the deleted scenes were deleted with good purpose; however, each is still accompanied by a nice description and a reason for their deletion. The interview galleries mostly consist of outtake footage that didn't make it into the original documentary, and not very interesting, frankly.
Conclusions
American action enthusiasts with PAL converting players really can't go wrong with this disc, which is affordable, and easily the best on the market. |
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