Bourne Identity, The (2002)

Starring: Matt Damon, Franka Potente, Chris Cooper
Director: Doug Liman

Rating: PG-13

Studio: Universal

Review Posted: 1.28.03

Spoilers: None

By John Teves.

Originally appeared on DVDFreak.net

Pulled from the sea with two bullets in his back, Jason Bourne (Damon) discovers he has the skills of a very dangerous man and no memory of his violent past. Racing to unlock the secret of his own identity, he discovers the deadly truth: he's an elite government agent. But to the government, Jason Bourne isn't just their property, he's a malfunctioning thirty million dollar weapon. Lethally trained, built to disappear, he's an agent on the run who has to be taken out.

>Read Craig Younkin's Film Review!

BOURNE IDENTITY appears in an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 on this single-sided, dual-layered DVD; the image has been enhanced for 16X9 televisions. As one might expect from Universal, BOURNE IDENTITY looked magnificent. Sharpness was excellent at all times. The film remained crisp and distinct. I saw no signs of softness or jagged edges. There was also no evidence of edge enhancement. A few small specks here and there, but otherwise the image looked clean and unmarked. The colors looked rich and brilliant. Black levels were deep and rich, while shadow detail came across clear. Overall, the BOURNE IDENTITY displayed a sharp and impressive DVD presentation.

BOURNE IDENTITY is presented in both a Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS track. There were no major difference between the two tracks as the DTS and DD5.1 soundtracks were very similar. However, the DTS version displayed a slightly stronger bass response and was somewhat more involving and surrounding. All five channels received a vigorous workout through much of the film. The film created a terrific sense of atmosphere and allowed the viewer to become completely involved in the action. Audio was positive. Dialogue was natural with no signs of edginess. Music score was lively and the bass appeared tight and deep throughout the film. Overall, the audio for BOURNE IDENTITY was truly a dynamic track.

• Feature Commentary with Director Doug Liman
• The Making of The Bourne Identity
• Extreme Ways Music Video by Moby
• Exclusive Alternate Ending
• Explosive Deleted Scenes
• Theatrical trailer(s)
• Production notes

Meet the next new action superstar! Matt Damon was absolutely remarkable as Jason Bourne. He posses the skills, personality and attitude for this character. This film is sharp, enjoyable, and surprising for those of you who were not very impressed with xXx then BOURNE IDENTITY is right up your alley.

This film has some nice choreographic fight scenes as well as a very clever plot twist. I thought BOURNE IDENTITY was a fantastic film. The DVD provided absolutely stellar picture and sound for the film transfer. The extras were decent, and the film itself was an appealing action flick. BOURNE IDENTITY comes highly recommended!

Film Rating: 4 out of 4

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