听 "Saving Private Ryan" is a triumph of technical ability that is showcased to perfection on a superb DVD release.
The raw and gritty imagery is captured in a fine transfer that is seeping with detail, from the horror of the beaches, to the terror lurking in the lush green countryside.
As for the 5.1 sound mix, it is the busiest yet. The terror of the bullets and grenades that come seemingly from nowhere zip across the room with a ferocity that nails you into the centre of the carnage. Ominous tanks eat up the sub woofer, while John Williams' fine score haunts the speakers around you.
The overall presentation of the disc is beautiful. Animated menus take you through the various options available. The main added feature is a 25-minute documentary entitled "Into the Breach". While it starts off looking like yet another cheesy 'making of' featurette it soon reveals deeper, more meaningful thoughts on the film and the events upon which it is based.
Contributions are made not only from the cast and Spielberg but also from the soldiers that landed on the beaches. Combined with photos of the dead and footage of the actual landings, it's a sobering confirmation of some of the most distressing elements of the film.
Chapters: 20
Ratio: 1.78:1
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Extra Features: Scene selection, "Into the Breach" documentary, two trailers, production notes, cast and crew biographies, animated menus, subtitles, English for the hearing impaired.
