Dark City (UK)

I liked the look of this when it was released, but was warned off by work colleagues. "It`s rubbish" one said, "I couldn`t follow it at all" remarked another. I took a guess that they`d completely missed the point or perhaps their personal taste is different to mine. I certainly wasn`t going to be put off by their warnings and decided to give it a try anyway.

I`m pleased I did too, as this is one of those rare films that demands concentration and imagination from it`s audience. As with "The Thirteenth Floor" and "The Game", a big part of the enjoyment comes from not knowing where things are heading. Intrigue is the name of the game and that`s why so many people moaned about it. Some people won`t give films like this the opportunity to unravel and can`t decode adventurous plot structures (or refuse to try). Anyone falling into that category should stay well clear of this title because it tries to be much more than just simplistic entertainment.

Although effort is required, there is a great deal of pleasure to be had with this film. It stands up well to repeat viewings and the narrative/plotting become clearer every time. The cast are good, with a special mention for Kiefer Sutherland`s portrayal of a "mad professor" stereotype, which at first seems over the top (and a little irritating!), but as you become familiar with the tone of the film it can be re-evaluated as gutsy and wholly appropriate.

Unfortunately, expense HAS been spared on the DVD as the picture (2.35:1), isn`t anamorphic and the sound is only Pro-Logic. As it happens, both of these are as clean and clear as possible but the extras aren`t worth the trouble I`m afraid. If you can spin American discs then you have a superb alternative in this case. If you can track down a French (R2) copy, then you`re in for an even bigger treat! as it has a DTS track and more extras than all the other currently available versions. EIV haven`t put much effort into this U.K disc though and I suspect a special edition will surface eventually.

Basically then, if you fancy a challenging experience and posses patience, an open-mind and an I.Q in double figures, then Dark City could well be for you.