mothmanpropheciesspecialedition

SRP $27.95

2.35:1(16:9)

DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1

COLUMBIA TRISTAR

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has re-released “MOTHMAN PROPHECIES” as a “special edition.” For fans of the film, the extra features, including a terrific documentary exploring the “facts” surrounding various sightings of the “Mothman,” make for an entertaining, if somewhat incredulous hour. Director Mark Pellington offers a running commentary, but it’s less involving, more technical, and far duller than most commentaries. It’s even more disappointing when considering how good his commentary was on the dvd release of “ARLINGTON ROAD.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has preserved the film’s 2.35:1 aspect ratio for this release, with 16:9 enhancement. We compared it to the previous dvd version, and could find no difference. Colors are excellent, and there’s outstanding detail in every shot. Contrast is also excellent with deep blacks and grays. Pellington uses his color scheme and production design to great affect here, and this transfer compliments it with perfection.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix for this release, and upon comparison to the previous version, it appears to be the same. While the use of directional/panning effects is generally restrained, there is an abundance of separation and ambient effects throughout the film. Even more effective is the score, heavily synthesized, and extremely scary, boosted at different points, with maximum impact, throughout the film. Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has added a 2^nd disc for this “special edition.” In addition to the lackluster commentary we’ve mentioned, there is a great documentary as well as a two-part featurette, “DAY BY DAY: A DIRECTOR’S JOURNEY.” It provides plenty of “behind-the-scenes” footage, as we follow pre-production and production on the film.

A deleted scenes segment offers five cut scenes, in letterbox, but without 16:9 enhancement. Their quality is solid, however the content adds nothing to the film, and it's obvious why they were cut.