听 "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" is a rare movie event, a foreign film that goes on to become a box office smash. It's also awakened the public to the potential beauty of martial arts in movies. The DVD release is bound to be popular and fans will not be disappointed.
While the standard of the martial arts choreography may be nothing new, director Ang Lee has exploited the cinematic potential of the form to the degree that the big screen is the only way to experience it. For home viewing, the DVD is the best format of choice. The picture quality is excellent and it captures the rich art direction that distinguishes this movie to the finest detail.
The 5.1 sound mix is superb. It has a range that extends from subtle atmospherics right through to fast, precise sounds that mirror the on-screen drama. Soaring above that is the soulful solo performed by cellist Yo Yo Ma, which is truly a pleasure to experience.
Ang Lee teams up with writer and executive producer James Schamus for the audio commentary. They joke around but don't really impart much of interest. It's a bit disappointing, and you may find the interview with Michelle Yeoh far more helpful. She gets straight to the heart of what this movie meant to her and what Lee was trying to achieve. Along with a 20-minute 'making of' documentary and trailers, this is a fine disc of a visual wonder.
Chapters: 28
Region: 2
Ratio: 2.35:1 (Anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Extra Features:
- Scene selection, animated menus, multiple languages, subtitles
- audio commentary with director Ang Lee and executive producer/screenwriter James Schamus
- Michelle Yeoh interview
- 'Making of', animated photo gallery, cast and crew filmographies
- US theatrical trailer, international trailer, "Not One Less" trailer, "Vertical Limit" trailer
