Review of Jurassic Park: Collector`s Edition DTS

Introduction

I remember going to see Jurassic Park for the fist time in the local cinema when it was released. There was a bit of controversy as it had been given a PG certificate with a statement that it was not suitable for younger viewers - a very odd decision and no doubt the result of pressure being applied from the studio. The certificate ended up ruining my viewing of the film as I had to tolerate several young children frightened out of their wits by T-Rex and co and screaming, hding behind seats etc. This led me to go to a late night showing to see the film again, this time in peace.

I enjoyed the film, due to a number of ingredients - mainly that Spielberg knows how to keep the audience entertained and the special effects were at the time breathtaking. I did own the film on VHS but sold it when I pre-ordered the DTS version earlier this year.

Has this DVD got a big bite to match the hype?

Video

Video is presented in an anamorphic transfer at 1.85:1. the quality throughout is as you would expect and hope for - stunning, with superb clarity and detail.

When the film was released much of the interest was centered on the CGI dinosaurs - these were truly groundbreaking and I remember the feeling of awe when they make their first appearance in the film. I felt the same way today. The transfer shows just how good the effects were - they still look fantastic and the added resolution of DVD makes them look even better. Visually, this film is a treat - typical Spielberg action fare with plenty of setpieces and panned shots.

The only downside to the visuals is the in-your-face shot of merchandise.

Audio

I opted for the DTS version of Jurassic Park and I was not disappointed.

From the opening sequence where the dinosaur gets the bloke trying to unload the packing crate, the sound is stunning.

The use of all channels is superb - and it really is like watching a different film such is the difference in atmosphere over the VHS version.

There are setpiece scenes throughout the film, some to note are when Sam Neill and Laura Dern shoot the radar down into the earth on the dig, the first appearance of the T-Rex, the scene where the herd runs past Neill and the two children...I could go on.

There`s also of course dialogue and it is clear and understandable throughout and to top it off, John William`s score sounds great.

Features

Being a Collector`s Edition, you expect a great deal of extras, and you`re not going to be let down.

There is a "The Making Of Jurassic Park" documentary, theatrical trailers for Jurassic Park, The Lost World, Jurassic Park III, a "Dinosaur Encyclopedia", production notes and cast & filmmakers info. There is also DVD-ROM content with the promise of live web events.

The only thing that is missing is a commentary which is a shame as it would have been topped things off quite nicely - and this is exactly the sort of film where commentaries are at their most interesting.

Another gripe is the Jurassic Park III trailer which is actually a teaser and consists only of some leaves whistling in the wind and some growls. Not worth the space on the DVD as far as I`m concerned.

The menus however are quite nice.

Conclusion

Overall, fans of the film will love this disc.

Being an old release, you`re probably only going to buy it if you already like the film - and most people do - it`s one of the most successful in history. If you`ve not seen this for a while on video, or perhaps only seen it on television, go out and buy this DVD - the picture and sound are stunning and this really is how the film should be seen.

If only all DVD releases were of this quality.

Recommended.