Picture: Anamorphic Widescreen. Good image. Overall resolution is quite good and there don't appear to be any technical stumbles. Since the feature gets to utilize the disc space and the audio channels very simple, compression is kept to a minimum. The film is a bit grainy in some parts, a stylistic choice. Colors are strong. Contrast is in good shape. Miike is in full play mode here, delivering scenes made to look like worn out 60's samurai films as well as acutely composed shots of pure beauty. Sharpness is crisp.

Sound: Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo, English or Japanese language tracks. Optional English subtitles. Well, some disappointment that there isn't a full-bodied surround presentation. The Stereo track is relatively strong and the soundtrack bristles with sharp fx and meaty, centered dialogue. Very nice subs, a good translation with no grammatical errors.

Extras: A second disc of extras includes: "Making Of" Featurette (19:32).— "Secrets of Izo" Featurette (60:25).— Theatrical Premiere footage (11:13)— Takashi Miike Trailer Reel (includes Izo trailers).— Production Still Gallery.— More Media Blaster's release trailers.

I strongly suggest diving into the "Secrets of Izo" before the "Making of" featurette. "Secrets" contains a lot of informative stuff, particularly Miike delving into the intent behind the film, as well as a lot of technical behind the scenes bits. Also curious is how many of the actors repeatedly say they signed on without fully understanding the script, yet they wanted to be involved because of Miike and the producers passion behind the project. The "Making of" is a little more basic and promo oriented, actors paying lip service to the film, and cute little text pop-ups on the behind the scenes stuff. Finally, the Premiere footage has a line-up of he key actors and Miike briefly talking about the film, making wise cracks, abd dishing out some praise before the film is screened.

Conclusion: ...This is a solid DVD, nice image and sound, and the extras add some insight and manage to help smooth out an oddball flick.