AVALON" is one of Director Barry Levinson's more personal films, and also, one of his best!  It's a small epic following the Krichinsky family, upon their arrival in America.  Armin Mueller-Stahl gives one of his best performances ever as the patriarch of the family. When we first hear him describe his amazement and love for this "new" country, it's incredibly moving, because it seems so sincere!  The supporting cast is also terrific, especially Aidan Quinn as the son, seemingly cursed with bad luck.  The story deals with many themes, including the loss of "family" and communication, due to advances in technology, specifically "television!" It's a great story, and a great film!
COLUMBIA TRISTAR has provided an exemplary presentation for this dvd release!  While the film looked great on laserdisc, there's far greater resolution achieved here!  The contrast is also impressive, with deep blacks and grays.  There is some grain present, but it's still less than on the laserdisc version.
The dolby 2.0 sound mix is wonderful.  This is a dialogue-driven film, and the dialogue is always well focused and free of distortion.  There are directional effects, but they tend to be used for atmosphere more than "surround" thrills.  The Randy Newman score is well complimented with this mix, engulfing the viewer appropriately at key moments.
COLUMBIA TRISTAR has provided the original theatrical trailer, however, it's only in full-frame and monaural sound.