House of Mirth
COLUMBIA TRISTAR has released the newest adaptation of an Edith Warton novel,
"HOUSE OF MIRTH". Her novels are far more complex than one would at first think due to various subtexts and the underlying social issues she addresses in them. "HOUSE OF MIRTH" is no exception, and it's one of the best films based on one of her novels yet.

Gillian Anderson has never really gotten the chance to expand as an actress as she does here in the lead role. She plays, Lily, a woman trying to find the wealthy "Mr. Right"at the turn of the century. As the film opens, she meets Lawrence, played magnificently, by Eric Stoltz. While they both flirt and are attracted to each other, but he doesn't have the financial means to meet her demands "or" her debts! One of the obstacles from her self-happiness lies in her gambling, and it's something that will contribute to her demise. There are various other suitors we meet and they're all individually interesting. Even Dan Ackroyd gives what may be his first, "believable" dramatic performance!

While the other supporting members(Anthony LaPaglia is also fantastic) are wonderful, it's Anderson that steals the show! She proves that she's really an incredible actress, bringing many dimensions to a character whose own motivations make her less than likable.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented the film with its proper 2.35:1 aspect ratio and 16:9 enhancement. It's a remarkable transfer! While at first the film appears too soft, it's soon evident that this look is exactly what Director Terrence Davies is seeking! It's unlike other "soft" transfers because it's never too soft or blurry. There's great detail and the colors adequately fit the production design like a nice finish on wood.

While one probably wouldn't expect a parlor room drama to gain much from a DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 mix , the soundstage here is highly involved. Although many interior scenes are focused towards the center channel for important dialogue, the surrounds kick in with great atmospheric impact whenever characters are taken outside of the various interiors. Train stations, large yards and more setting provide a really engulfing experience for the listener that's wonderful, but never overdone!

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has included a running commentary with Director Terrence Davies. Right from the start, we realize we're listening to someone with a high level of education, lending one to feel Davies could easily open up "MASTERPIECE THEATER" on a regular basis. While not overly energetic, he's deeply insightful, and his perspective on the film, as well as the subtext of the novel, allows one to feel like they're sitting in a highly enjoyable "advanced seminar for filmmakers".

There is also a "deleted" scenes segment, with the option of more commentary from Davies. Some of them are extended versions of scenes, but Davies evocatively points out that sometimes, "less isn't more, it's just less!" His commentary here is really worth listening to.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has also included trailers for "House of Mirth," "Age of Innocence," "Little Women," "Sense and Sensibility" and "The Remains of the Day".