Stallone’s 2nd direct-to-video(dvd) release from  COLUMBIA TRISTAR, “AVENGING ANGELO,” is here! While it suffers from not knowing whether to be a straight drama or comedy, Stallone’s actually great in his role, and it does offer Anthony Quinn’s last performance, which while brief, is still entertaining. Stallone plays Frankie Delano, bodyguard to crime figure, “Angelo” (Quinn)Allieghieri.  Angelo, recognizing that his demise is inevitable, asks Frankie to protect his daughter, Jennifer(Madeline Stowe)who is completely oblivious to her father’s real profession.  When Angelo is finally killed, Frankie becomes determined to “avenge” his death, and protect Jennifer from those who’ve killed her dad and are now after her.  Of course, he decides to reveal the “truth” about her father to her, and complications arise, as well as some funny, but more often ridiculous pratfalls, for her in the process.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has preserved the film’s 2.35:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement, and there’s also an option for pan&scan.   While some of the film appears to have been filmed with the intent to look grainy, there are plenty of scenes, where there’s no thematic reason for the varying softness or grain.  The image is still decent, overall, but it’s inconsistent.  Fleshtones appear natural.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix for this release.  It’s not an overly aggressive soundmix, there is a fair share of directional and bass effects. Dialogue is always intelligible.

An audio commentary has been included with the films’ director, Martyn Burke.  It’s a surprisingly entertaining commentary, and in spite of the film’s numerous flaws, there’s a lot to offer here for aspiring filmmakers.

A featurette has also been included, filled with behind-the-scenes footage, as well as narration from the film’s cinematographer, Usama Rawi.  It’s a terrific featurette, and well worth viewing.

An interview with the film’s writers and trailers are also included.