This reviewer has never liked George Hickenlooper's work.  However, his latest film, "THE MAN FROM ELYSIAN FIELDS," is a thought-provoking, poignant, piece of work.  Andy Garcia has made some awful films, and while this didn't win over any large audiences in theaters, it's one of his better films.  Garcia stars as Byron Tiller, an author failing like a failure because he's found that a book of his is available in discount bins. When his editor goes back on forwarding him an advance for his next project, his concerns about supporting his wife and child are heightened. 

Things take a surprising turn, when a mysterious man named Luther(Mick Jagger) introduces himself at a bar, and asks him to work with him at his business, "Elysian Fields," an escort service catering to wealthy women.  Out of necessity, Garcia obliges, and his first client is Andrea,(Olivia Williams).  By coincidence, Andrea is the wife of acclaimed novelist, Tobias Allcott(James Coburn).  This husband and wife have a strange, but open relationship, and the sickly Tobias gives Garcia the chance to assist him with his newest novel, while sleeping with his wife.  Of course, during this process, Garcia's marriage only gets worse. 

One can't praise Mick Jagger enough here.  While not a fan of his acting in the past, he's terrific here.  Narration is chancy in most films, but with Jagger, it works, and makes the film even more intriguing.  The whole cast is good, and I actually enjoyed Coburn's final performance here more than in the acclaimed "AFFLICTION." 

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has preserved the film's 1.85:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement.  The image is decent, but lacks the detail of most of COLUMBIA TRISTAR's better work.  Colors appear muted at times.  Contrast is fine, with generally deep blacks and grays, offering decent clarity in darker scenes. Fleshtones appear natural. 

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented a Dolby Digital 5.0 mix.  Surrounds are restrained, with the exception of a few ambient effects.  However, for a dialogue-driven film, the front soundstage is active with separation effects. The music is well complimented through all speakers as well. 

COLUMBIA TRISTAR offers a commentary with Hickenlooper, Garcia and writer Phillip Jayson Lasker.  It's a great listen, and all three exhibit great camaraderie as well as insight into the film's story and production.

Several trailers and tv spots are also included.