Blue Velvet: Special Edition (US)

"I can`t figure out if you`re a detective or a pervert."

MGM had previously released a standard DVD release two years ago, but has revisited "Blue Velvet" with a brand digital transfer supervised by David Lynch. Presented in the anamorphic widescreen (2.35:1) aspect ratio that preserves the way in which the film was exhibited theatrically, this new transfer is a bit darker than the previous DVD, but the colors appear richer somehow. One can really appreciate the palette of colors that make up the costumes and production design more than before with this new DVD edition, which is important because what the characters wear and where they go greatly defines the "worlds" from which they are coming from as well as how they interact.

A new English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Soundtrack is also provided and it is excellent considering this film is about 15 years old. There is a discrete use of the rear channels and an aggressive use of the base that rivals contemporary film soundtracks.
This new DVD release includes a reprint of the insert from the previous release with productions notes about the film featuring anecdotes regarding the casting from Kyle MacLachlan`s weariness about taking on the lead role as Jeffrey to Dennis Hopper whole hearted acceptance of one of the most memorable screen villains of all time, Frank Booth. According to David Lynch, Hopper declared, "I`ve got to play Frank. I am Frank!"

There`s a few Easter eggs hidden here and there, not too difficult to find and each one is worth a chuckle. Finally, it`s worth mentioning that unlike a lot of Lynch`s movies on disc, this actually does have chapter stops. Whether Lynch had a change of heart on this release or he just didn`t notice, I don`t know… but they`re there if you want `em.

As a whole this is well worth the upgrade from the previous release and a great DVD. "Blue Velvet: Special Edition" is dark, funny and challenging and this DVD puts it in its best light. Kind of a cold, flickering blue light suspended on a hook.

After making Dune, David Lynch went on to make what many consider to be his masterpiece, Blue Velvet. Jeffery Beaumont returns to his hometown of Lumbertown to visit his father who is hospitalized. While walking out in a field, he finds a severed ear and decides to play detective. With the help of a local high-school student, Jeffrey finds a lounge singer whose husband is being held by a pyscopath who he loves her and would do anything to have her. Jeffrey now has to not only help this woman but also stop himself being killed in the process.

The film is presented in 2.35:1 and looks stunning. There are few problems with this picture. The sound has been given a 5.1 re-mix and this helps to enchance the film.

MGM have provided a good range of supplements. The highlight is the 70 minute documentary Mysteries Uncovered. Featuring interviews with many of the key players from the film, this is a very thorough and informative documentary. Next is a montage of deleted scenes which no longer exist except in still picture form. These are interesting to see although some text at the beginning of each scene explaining what the scenes are about would have been nice. Other extras include a trailer, 2 TV spots, Siskel and Ebert`s review of the film, a photo gallery and a couple of easter eggs.

Blue Velvet is an intriguing film with great performances and wonderful imagery. MGM have done a great job with this film.

Finally, this is how the film should look like. Previously available on DVD in Substanddard versions, here Lynch`s best film is served properly. The presentation is More than Satisfactory...

Intro- A short summary of this superb film: Clean cut Jeffery Beaumont finds a chopped human ear in his perfect small town Lumberton(only to discover his town is not so normal). From there on, his investigation is sunk into an erotic, murder mystery. Great performances from all. Most memorable moments in this film is the sadist drug taking Frank Booth played by Dennis Hopper.

My verdict: 4/5

Video- Supervised by David Lynch himself, the transfer is quite a blast. The film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen The colours is just right, well defined and a lot of the grain and flecks has been removed in this release. The only negative side is that is has a little EE noticibly on the roses in the beginning of the film.

Sound Mixed under the supervison of Lynch again, the DD 5.1 is a little disappointing but that`s what Lynch wanted. It`s subtle and as expected with most films with heavy dialogue, there won`t be a lot of activity going on. If you plan to show off your expensive equipment, then this is not the film to play it with. Try Speed or T2

Extras- Lynch hates extras, commentaries and chapter stops. The next best thing is a 70 min documentary name "Mysteries of Love" with archieved interviews with Lynch and recent ones with the cast and crew.

There is a deleted scenes montage showing still images of deleted scenes accompanied by some strange eerie music.

There is a short "Siskel and Ebert" review of the film, Siskel likes it and Ebert doesn`t.

A photo gallery speaks for itself and there is the usual trailers. You will also find 4 easter eggs.

Lastly, there is a 2 page booklet which explains about the film.

Overall- A bona fide masterpiece. Worth viewing again.