Beloved failed at the box office for many reasons.  First of all, it's very long, 171 minutes!  As good as it is, and we liked it, it could still benefit from some editing!  But, the benefit of home viewing is the ability to take a break, if necessary.  Also, it's well suited for the intimacy of home viewing.  Winfrey is great as the woman literally haunted by her past on the way to enlightenment.  The supernatural aspects of the film will undoubtedly turn off some viewers within the first few minutes, as the opening sequence is filled with seemingly unexplainable supernatural phenomena, and it's gross!!!  The transfer is exceptional, with vibrant colors when intended, and a dynamic directional effects mix.  A featurette and trailer are also offered.

Holy Man is one of Eddie Murphy's best films in years.  It's only fault lies in going for drama and a message when it should stay concentrated on the comedy working so well for most of the movie.  Kelly Preston looks terrific, as does the disc with exemplary color levels and flawless contrast.  The 2.35:1 aspect ratio is necessary and intact.  The dolby digital 5.1 sound is extremely active in certain scenes, then non-existent for long hauls.

While the plot may seem reminiscent of "Eddie and the Cruisers", a reporter takes the viewer back over the career of a rock star whom may have faked his own death, it's in a different league.  The period it covers feels authentic in every way.   The music is incredible, enhanced greatly by the transfer's dolby digital 5.1 sound mix.  The colors and fleshtones manage to stay sharp even in the most troublesome lighting situations.  A fun time!!!!

Mira Sorvino won the Oscar for her performance here, and it's the best thing she's done so far.  But, everything about the film is engaging, Allen's performance for instance.  For the first time in a while, his character is interesting, and funny.   The transfer isn't anything spectacular, with adequate contrast and color.   Allen doesn't strive for anything extravagant here, but everything looks fine.   The mono sound is unremarkable, and makes one wonder why he doesn't choose to magnify his great music selections with enhanced sound quality.

An ABBA Music video to "Dancing Queen" is offered as a supplement to the film on the dvd.  It's appropriate considering the film's main character is an ABBA addict.  Muriel isn't the most likeable character, and that's what makes her interesting, and ultimately sympathetic.  She feels real!  The film, like the main character works its charm on the viewer as its narrative makes the film less and less predictable.  The transfer looks wonderful, as it should!  Color is important to every scene, and they're vibrant throughout.  The surround sound is minimal, except for musical segments.