| How Does the DVD Look?: I was a little nervous to approach this R3 release and for a long time did not give it a chance even though it is the only English-friendly one you would find on the market. To my surprise Universe have provided a very good, if not excellent, transfer that seems to be flagged properly. The film is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and it is being enhanced for widescreen TVs (yes, 1.85:1 is indeed the ratio which the director approved for this film while it was being shown at festivals around the world). Colors appear well saturated, detail is well handled, and for the most part contrast appears in good condition. My only complain is that as it has been the case with some previous Universe releases sometimes a soft spot will appear here and there forcing me to ponder exactly what process the mastering company is using to transfer film to DVD. A few such instances were noticeable on this release. That put aside however this is one very good looking print.
How Does the DVD Sound?: Unlike the French set of 24 heures de la vie d'une femme an elaborate DTS track has been provided the only audio option we are offered on this R3 release is a French 2.0 mix with optional (small, white) English and Chinese subs. I certainly did not notice any flaws with the audio mix--there were no drop outs, hissing, or cracks—but I feel a tiny bit disappointed that a 5.1 track was no provided. With this said, if having a 2.0 track means a great picture quality (I am reading into the mind of the distribs at Universe) then it is all fine by me. With this said, the English subtitles are very well done without any grammatical mistakes and the syntax appears to have been handled in an immaculate manner.
Extras: Unfortunately the only extra material found on this DVD is a gallery of stills from the main feature. Not quite disappointing indeed as even the French disc offers only a trailer and filmographies for the cast. With other words, this is an "acceptable" presentation.
Final Thoughts: I thought that this film will never show up in R1 land, I really did. And so far our distributors have proven my prediction correct. Fortunately, R3 distrib Universe have provided this film with a deserving treatment that will warm up the hearts of non-French speaking Agnes Jaoui fans around the world. As to the film…color me biased, I adore period romantic stories! Recommended! |
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