Originally slated to be directed by (Pi) Director Darren Aronofsky, "BELOW" ended up being helmed by David(Pitch Black)Twohy from a script by Aronofsky.

Just the premise alone, made this reviewer excited about viewing "BELOW."  It's basically a horror thriller set almost entirely within a submarine, with WW2 as the background.  After an American Sub rescues the survivors of a boat hospital boat sunk by a German U-boat, things begin to get very creepy.  "BELOW" is a throwback to the great horror films of Val Lewton, wherein what's suggested was far scarier than what's actually seen. In the case of a ghost story, this technique of using obscured images, dark corridors, and creaking pipes works in an incredibly effective manner. 

Twohy has put together an excellent cast, including Olivia Williams and Bruce Greenwood.  Everyone is terrific, but it's Williams' role as the haunted captain with a dark secret, that steals the film. It's a shame that the film did so poorly in its brief, belated theatrical run, however, this excellent dvd presentation gives new audiences a chance to be entertained and scared by something that's uncommon lately, an effective horror film. 

BUENA VISTA has presented the film's original 1.85:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  Colors are solid throughout, and while there are plenty of scenes within the sub's interior calling for a subdued look, there are other scenes in which the colors are vibrant.  The contrast is flawless! There are deep blacks and grays, offering excellent definition in the film's frequent dark scenes.  Fleshtones are consistently natural. 

BUENA VISTA has provided a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix for this release.  It's terrific!  This is an aggressive mix, with creative effects throughout the film. There are also plenty of .1(LFE) effects to give any subwoofer a real workout!  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 

BUENA VISTA has included some extras for this release.  A "deleted scenes" section offers three scenes, with or without director's commentary.  Unfortunately, all of the scenes were properly removed, offering nothing to advance the film.

A featurette, "THE PROCESS" is also included, offering a little but entertaining insight into the film's development from script to screen.  It includes some behind-the-scenes footage from Twohy's home video camera.

An audio commentary with Twohy and most of the cast, has been included.  It's one of the best commentaries we've heard in a long time!  The group of six all provide discussion around the kinds of questions any fan of the film would want to hear. A lot of fun!. 

Last but not least, is the film's theatrical trailer. It's provided in letterboxed format, with 16:9 enhancement and Dolby Digital 5.1.  One look at it, and it's easy to see the film was poorly promoted.  The actual film is nothing like the trailer.