| IVL presents the films in their original aspect ratio of 1.33:1. Print quality varies a few notches, some dictated by original shooting conditions (Wild Child features quite drastic changes in light and colour between shots in certain scenes) and the presentations are pretty much non-remastered (scratches on the print, muted colours etc). Clarity is reasonable throughout though and the rough look often complements the films themselves.
The Cantonese Dolby Digital 2.0 tracks (with Thai being heard briefly in Old Plough and Mandarin dominating Choice Of Dreams) overall sound fine without much detractions. Wild Child fares less well though with a wide mono experience that is often harsh and can be heard in the rear speakers as well. Adjusting your receiver settings a bit remedies this mostly but expect a tinned sound in the film overall.
The optional English subtitles read well and feels coherent. During one very easily understood sequence in Old Plough, they go missing however and the reference to Kafka at one point is misspelled. Traditional and simplified Chinese subtitles are also included.
Both discs carry the same supplements, starting with a RTHK promo spot that precedes the main menu. The remaining extras are brief, English subtitled interviews with Ann Hui (2 minutes, 13 seconds) and Allen Fong (2 minutes, 35 seconds). Hui expresses admiration for Fong's advanced creativity and describes the difficulty to survive employing such a technique and stance as a filmmaker. Fong describes the structure of the series as being linear before he came on board and directed individual movies. Mentions of inspirations for Wild Child and casting choices are worthwhile but longer interviews would've been very welcome.
Cover Gallery showcases the top 10 entries in the cover art competition arranged in preparation for the release of Below The Lion Rock on dvd. These are often in tune works and refreshingly varied styles were selected in the end. Each entry is also accompanied by Chinese text. On the physical cover and in the menus, we also get clearer renditions of art for Wild Child (not included amongst the top 10), Ode To Un Chau Chai and more of a general one for the Allen Fong collection. |