GIRLFIGHT-
COLUMBIA TRISTAR has released one of the best "independent"-like films of recent years on dvd.  "GIRLFIGHT" is impressive for many reasons, but one of them is clearly due to its boldness! All of its characters seem "real"!
Even the main character, Diana, isn't extremely likeable! When we're first introduced to her, she's beating up another girl.  While the victim isn't likeable either, we're still made "instantly" aware that Diana is no angel.  She's a troubled kid, and when we view her home life, we can see why.  At first, we couldn't believe the conflict between her and her father.  Not because the conflict wasn't believable, but because her father didn't seem old enough to be a father!  But, this is what gives the film its realism!  It's believable when you accept that he had to have been a "kid" himself when he fathered Diana to be so young now!  The problems with the social fabric permeating these characters lives, is carefully displayed throughout the film.  Rightfully feeling overlooked by her father, she decides to put her inner-anger to use, and takes up boxing lessons.  Overcoming the "male" dominance of the sport is only one of many problems she encounters on her journey for self-worth.  Complicating things further is another boxer she falls in love with, much to the chagrin of her father.  While this "love story" aspect of the film contributes the only "predictability" existing in the film, it's still well handled, and doesn't succumb to over-sentimentality.  
 
COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented the film with its proper 1.85:1 aspect ratio and 16:9 enhancement.  The film's modest budget is responsible for some of the lighting problems, causing some softness in spots.  Still, overall the image is sharp.  There is some pixelation too, but colors are generally solid.  Fleshtones appear natural throughout, and the resolution is impressive.

The Dolby Digital 5.1 soundmix is more aggressive than we expected from such a modestly budgeted film.  While surround usage isn't non-stop, it's effectively used for atmosphere and the wonderful musical score is well complimented with the 3-dimensional soundstage created here.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has provided a commentary track for this release.
"GIRLFIGHT" marks the directorial debut of Karyn Kusama and her debut commentary is outstanding. This is one of the best commentaries for aspiring filmmakers we've ever heard. The success of the commentary lies in Kusama's frankness.  She's extremely open about compromises she had to make on a film with an abbreviated shooting schedule and her enthusiasm for the cast and the filmmaking process is moving.  She lends a lot of insight into the production end of the film, but also into the aesthetic aspects as well. 
There is a short featurette, offering scenes from the film and interviews.
Trailers for "GIRLFIGHT", "BLACK&WHITE", and "CHARLIE'S ANGELS" are featured.