NOTE: There was a single layered non-anamorphic DVD of this film put out by Warner in 1997 (yes, they were making DVDs back then!). It came in the dreaded snapper case and had a pan-and-scan version on the opposite side. We have posted a sample comparison image below - obviously the anamorphic image here is far superior in detail and contrast. No contest.

The new image looks great and only some very minor digital noise separating it from perfection. Black levels are very strong and I am totally satisfied overall.

This commentary is a duplicate of the one originally done almost a decade ago by Busch and Epperson and it shows how far DVDs have come. It sounds as though they are ill prepared and there are gaps - no where near as complete as it could have been for this film - certainly the weakest commentary of the boxset. The second disc of extras is superb - a lot of valuable and interesting facts are discussed.

In my opinion the new package is a must-own. I mean, does it get any better than this? Hollywood at its most toxic and enchanting. I love the all the hints at blurring the line between reality and the 'dream factory'. There will never be another star like Bette Davis and this film ranks as another penultimate foray in her impossible and extensive career. Somehow the caricature performances work to a 'T'.

Gary W. Tooze