2.35:1(16:9) DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 COLUMBIA TRISTAR
Writer/Director Brian Helgeland was given free reign to tell his tale in "A
KNIGHT'S TALE", and while it runs away from traditional night films with
abandon, it's still great fun, and extremely innovative in its approach. On
one hand, Helgeland tries to stay true to the times and even offers real
characters, Chaucer turns up as one of the funniest supporting characters
ever. But, Helgeland also sets his striking imagery to the tune of modern
rock ballads and music, at times entertaining, and at others distracting.
Hearing a crowd getting rowdy to the tune of Queen's "WE WILL ROCK YOU" does
manage to create a smile, but it's certain to turn off some traditional fans
of knight films as well. Either the viewer will enjoy the slightly
tongue-and-cheek approach of Helgeland's story, or will hate it. There's no
in-between.

The story has a little bit of everything in it. There are charlatans wanting
to better themselves, and a young knight whom falls in love with a girl
above his station, and much more to please an entire family, without
offending anyone, with the exception of a brief derriere scene.

The COLUMBIA TRISTAR transfer offers the correct 2.35:1 aspect ratio and
16:9 enhancement. It looks stunning! While there are great color values and
fleshtones are natural, there have been few dvds in which the blacks and
grays stay consistently this deep! It's incredible to observe!

The Dolby Digital 5.1 soundmix is extremely aggressive. Helgeland has put a
great deal of emphasis on making the joust sequences come to life, and the
directional and surrounds get a lot of kick here, as does the LFE channel.
This is a demonstration quality soundmix. Add to this fact that there's an
incredible rock score engulfing the listener and there's yet one more reason
to grab this dvd.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has made this a true "SPECIAL EDITION". To begin with,
Helgeland provides a running commentary, along with actor Paul Bettany.
Helgeland is a constant joy to hear. He's such a film enthusiast that one
can't help but be awed by his passion and attention to detail.

There are numerous short featurettes as well. These brief segments cover
nearly everything one could want to know about the film's production,
referring to the historical authenticity as well as production highlights
and equestrian complications. There is also an HBO special that's mostly
fluff.

Our favorite segment is the "DELETED SCENES" section. Unlike most "deleted
scenes" sections, this one offers a large number, six in all! More
importantly, several of them are excellent! There's an option for director's
commentary as well.

A music video and trailers are also included.