Age Group | I was born when |
Video Likes | Correct aspect ratio, the best possible transfer from the available original. |
Video Dislikes | Incorrect aspect ratio, restorations that try to "improve" the original (eg colourisation), transfers that are sloppy and don't make the most of the format. |
Audio Likes | Clear, enveloping sound that draws you into the film. Music that suits the movie and is sympathetic to the period and atmosphere of the film. |
Audio Dislikes | Use of rears and sub-woofer just because they are there. Surround should not draw undue attention to itself except for special effects that are important to the story or atmosphere. |
Favourite DVDs | See my top 10. |
Least Favourite DVDs | So many bad movies, so little space. Basically movies that treat the viewer like they are stupid irritate the daylights out of me. |
Most Eagerly Awaited DVDs | Hmmmmm, can't think of any at the moment. |
Titanic | Great true story ruined by shallow love story. The sinking was great on the big screen, but the DVD was disappointing. At least Leonardo dies, so that's a plus. |
The Matrix | From a technical standpoint, an excellent DVD. As a movie; grossly overrated and conceited. I really don't understand all the fuss about it. |
Terminator 2 | I'll admit up front, I'm not an Arnie fan. Fabulous special effects for its time makes this technically very good but - it's an Arnie film so leave the brain in neutral. |
Star Wars | Saw the original in the theatre and loved it although I'm not fanatical about it. Haven't seen the DVD yet. As far as the series goes, the first three (episodes 4-6) were fun but episode one took itself far too seriously, tried too hard and was disappointing. I haven't bothered with episode two or three. |
Godzilla | Haven't seen it all through as my intelligence was insulted. At least the old Japanese versions KNEW they were rubbish. |
Independence Day | If only they spent some of their mega-budget on a script. Lots of special effects to distract you from the lack of decent plot, character development or talent. |
DVD Player | Toshiba SD-1200Y , using Component output |
Display | Panasonic TH-42PV500A 42" HD Plasma . Calibrated with Digital Video Essentials (PAL). This display device is 16x9 capable. |
Audio Decoder | Built in to amplifier/receiver . Calibrated with Ultimate DVD Platinum. |
Amplification | Yamaha RX-V596 |
Speakers | Richter Wizard fronts, Richter Lynx centre, Richter Hydra rears, Velodyne CT-100 sub-woofer |
1. Schindler's List: Special Edition (1993) Brilliantly told true story of a man of contrasts in a time of insanity. | 2. Citizen Kane (Warner) (1941) Voted best American film in 100 years - what more can I say. Ground-breaking film when released, it's still a great story. The extras are brilliant and enhance the movie by putting it in its historical context. | 3. The Eagles-Hell Freezes Over (Warner) (1994) Reference DVD for sound. Brilliant DTS track and a great concert. I go back to it again and again. | 4. The Godfather-DVD Collection (1972) It was an offer I couldn't refuse. Great story, brilliant acting, extras galore. | 5. Lawrence of Arabia: Collector's Edition (1962) One of the great epics. Stunning cinematography, inspired editing and a restoration that is near perfect. |
6. The Great Escape: Special Edition/Gold Edition (1963) In an era that churned out war movies galore, this is one of the best. Great ensemble cast telling a story all the better because it's true. | 7. North by Northwest (1959) The master at his peak. No-one comes near Hitch for suspense and just enough humour to keep it fresh. Plus, you can play 'Where's Alfred'. | 8. Saving Private Ryan (DTS) (1998) One of the best modern war films made. Graphic without being gratuitously violent. Emotional moments that are not overdone. The DTS sound is amazing. | 9. The Manchurian Candidate (1962) One of THE best political thrillers. Skillful editing of the dream sequences is a highlight. | 10. Ronin (1998) Intelligent spy film with a car chase sequence even better than 'Bullitt'. Superb video transfer and sensational audio. |