One of the most unusual science fictions of the past decade, "DARK CITY",
comes to vibrant life on DVD from NEW LINE. Another entry into their
"Platinum Series", it appears that everything from NEW LINE is a "Platinum
Series" title. This is good news, because the "Series" label
indicates multiple extra features. This title comes with two individual audio
commentaries, one with Roger Ebert, the other with the films director,writers, production
designer and more. The production designer is surprisingly interesting, and viewers
will want to hear from him after viewing the outstanding look of his work that has been
brilliantly duplicated on an "excellent" transfer. There are few scenes
where pixels are apparent, and much of the film, whic is dark, has great shadow detail.
The 2.35:1 aspect ratio is a must, although a pan&scan version is also offered.
The Dolby Digital 5.1 sound is active in almost every frame!
Director Barry Levinson has been pretty busy lately, "Sphere" and "Wag
the Dog" were released in close proximity to each other at theaters. "Wag
the Dog" is obviously provocative due to it's uncanny timing with the current White
House scandal, but the film's script deals with fundamentals of politics that are
timeless. Levinson and Dustin Hoffman are included on an audio track. In
addition to this, an insightful documentary is also featured. The picture, 1.85:1 is
perfectly captured, and the image is perfect throughout. The Dolby Digital 5.1
features some specialized effects, but they're mostly subdued.