Decent, dual-layered, anamorphic (original 1.85:1 ratio) and progressive transfer from Artificial Eye. I don't have any strong complaints about the image quality - it looks quite strong at times and the film wavers in its style but the PAL DVD supports it faithfully. Contrast and colors are adeptly rendered. Good news again that I don't see excessive manipulation and the image is very clean.

Audio gives us two flavors - a competent 2.0 channel and a rarely tested 5.1 which, when put to use - has some moments of separation. The dialogue has mostly Arabic with some English and French and there are optional English subtitles (sample below). 

Supplements include a 25 minute interview with director Philippe Aractingi by Daniel Graham. Aractingi is quite energetic and talks a lot with his hands. It's a pleasure to see someone that passionate explain some of the finer points of his vision. I wish more director interviews were this genuinely enthusiastic.  There is another interaction with him in the 7 minute An Audience with Director where he speaks in front of a crowd responding to various cues. We also have a 12 minute interview with actress Nada Abou Farhat about her experiences in making Under The Bombs. There is also a trailer and fairly ineffectual stills gallery.

Great art-house/festival film with a definite message and depth - a truly compelling drama - effectively told and with an intense sense of realism. I feel very fortunate to have seen Under the Bombs and strongly endorse it and the Artificial Eye DVD to others. Highly recommended! 

Gary W. Tooze