Stallone allegedly went to great limits for the role he landed in COP LAND, gaining immense weight,salary cut, etc.  It was worth it, and although the film falls short of its intentions in various ways, his performance is calculatingly restrained and rewarding.  The supporting cast is also entertaining, although De Niro's performance is the only one that seems heavy-handed.  The story dealing with overtones of   corruption, racisim and other topics, is in many ways a homage to High Noon.   In fact, one could argue that it "borrows" extensively from it. 

The quality of the DVD transfer is excellent.  Although the film is grainy in spots, it matches the theatrical prints perfectly.  The 1.85:1 aspect ratio is intact.  The Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, while not extremely active, adds depth to significant scenes. 

Finally, PULP FICTION has arrived.  The transfer is far superior to any of the current laserdisc versions.(There is a regular Dolby Surround version,DTS version, and Criterion Collector's CAV-Dolby Digital version) The colors appear more defined in virtually every scene.  Also, DVD technology adds great resolution to the film's more darkly lit moments.  Our only criticism: BUENA VISTA is not offering their DVDs with enhanced 16:9 transfers.  This would make a huge difference to the discerning film fans and collectors DVD is trying to please.  The Dolby Digital 5.1 sound matches the Criterion version.  It isn't as active as we'd have liked, but it does add depth to some of the film's best moments. 

Thankfully, the DVD release of PRETTY WOMAN is the more recent "Director's Cut" version.  While the new footage isn't exactly a revelation, it does add a little more depth to the film's character development.  As with the laser disc version of the "Director's Cut", Gary Marshall's audio commentary is also included.  Marshall is pleasing to hear, and often funny.

The DVD transfer is considerably sharper than the previous laserdisc versions, with far more depth and color control, especially in the extensive location scenes.  The film's 1.85:1 ratio is intact.  The Dolby Surround sound is slightly less ambient than the laserdisc, although the pop rock soundtrack moments bring out great quality in contrast to the rest of the film.