Woody Allen's latest, "Sweet and Lowdown" is also one of his best.  Sean Penn stars in this pseudo-biography about a legendary jazz guitarist whom is pretty "lowdown" by any definition.  While Allen ingeniously intercuts interviews with characters that allegedly knew Penn's character, Emmet Ray, or knew of him, we begin to understand the problems inherent in recollection.  They're never certain, and they can never define someone.  A perfect example of this is near the film's ending, wherein three different versions are given to explain what happened during a "hold-up" sequence involving Ray, his wife, and a mobster.  The viewer is told various scenarios by an interview subject, and we're shown several scenarios, but none of them have any similarity to what could be defined as "truth".  The one thing that is true, and that Emmet Ray learns too late, is that we need people in our lives, and love is the greatest gift of all.  Most of the film, Emmet is trying to impress upon everyone he meets the sacrifice necessary for greatness.  He unabashedly tells his girlfriend he needs others, that's his life, his art,..etc.  There's a strong argument brought forth by Penn that great art coincides with great flaws.  This is the same argument Allen brought up in his earlier film "Deconstructing Harry".  However, Emmet's ultimate unhappiness losing the one true thing that matters, argues something totally different, and it's brilliant.

        The dvd transfer for the release from COLUMBIA TRISTAR and as is a standard with this studio, the release is far better than average.  The 16:9 enhancement brings even more depth and resolution to a sharp picture.  Colors are vibrant, and there's great clarity to every scene.  No artifacts present. 

        The mono sound(typical with Allen releases) doesn't really hinder the film, although it would be great to hear the wonderful jazz music in dolby digital 5.1!!!  But, it's clear and all dialogue is perfectly rendered.  There are several trailers featured, including one for Allen's "HUSBANDS AND WIVES" starring Liam Neeson.  We hope this one gets released from TRISTAR soon!