PUMPKIN-$SRP 26.98

Teen-age angst, and other relevant issues have seldom been handled as innovatively, or as creatively as they are in “PUMPKIN”, a new dvd release from MGM.  When a sorority’s tactics to win “Sorority of the Year”, by tutoring mentally deficient athletes, sorority sister, Carolyn(Christina Ricci) is first against it.  When she first meets her charity case, a kid named “Pumpkin”, in an honestly painful, but still funny scene, her frustration with him brings out a loud scream! 

What happens next is unpredictable, moving, and entertaining, as the unlikely pair, against all odds, become enamored with one another, causing controversy and self-reflection to the superficial elements around them. 

Unfortunately, after a turn of events causes Carolyn to attempt suicide, everything about the film becomes somewhat predictable and trite.  There are still some great scenes and the dialogue is memorable, but the direction of the story is one the audience has seen many times over. 
 
MGM has provided the correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement for this release.  An open-matte version is also offered on the alternate side of the disc.  Although the film appears to have had a modest budget(no commentary is offered to know for sure)the image is generally pleasing. Colors are decent, though not vibrant, and contrast is fine.  There is an abundance of grain at times, but overall, this is an above-average transfer.  Fleshtones appear natural.

MGM has presented “PUMPKIN” with a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix.  Because the film is dialogue-conscious, it’s not overly aggressive. However, in a few key sequences the surround effects come to life and provide some great moments.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.