FUNNY GIRL

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has finally released the long-awaited “FUNNY GIRL”, and yes, it’s been worth the wait!  One of her better films, in “FUNNY GIRL” Streisand actually gives a terrific performance.  Her portrayal of the energetic, vibrant Fanny Brice is totally believable and often moving. 

The film plays like an epic.  Big sets, elaborate costumes, stunning cinematography, and a monumental director, William Wyler.   Wyler, known for such epics as "Ben Hur" displays a craftsmanship here to project a musical/drama unlike any other.  Unlike most musicals, when songs occur here, they're believable, without actors just breaking into song and dance, in an unbelievable manner.  The drama is heartfelt, and the love story is both moving and realistic.


COLUMBIA TRISTAR has released this version with its 2.35:1 aspect ratio intact and 16:9 enhancement.  The color values are incredible! The production design is elaborate, and there is a wide array of colors in almost every scene. With that in mind, it’s dazzling to see the colors so bold and without oversaturation.    There is also great depth in every frame, allowing stronger detail than we’ve seen in almost any other dvd release this year!  The contrast is perfect, with deep blacks and grays. 

The soundmix has been restored for Dolby digital 5.0 sound.  While there isn’t much in the way of rear speaker effects, the wonderful score is boosted here.  There are some separational effects on the front soundstage, and dialogue is well focused on the center channel.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has included a featurette, “BARBARA IN MOVIELAND”.  It’s entertaining, and unusual, detailing how a train station was transformed into one of the sets for the film.  There is also another featurette, but it’s basically self-promoting, and several trailers