DVD REVIEW

Majestic, The

Starring: Jim Carrey, Martin Landau
Director: Frank Darabont

Rating: PG-13

Review Posted: 7.1.02

By John Teves

Peter (Jim Carrey), a Hollywood screenwriter, stumbles into Lawson, California with his memory blanked out by an auto accident. There, he's mistaken by the citizenry to be a long lost war hero; an identity Peter also comes to believe while restoring the town's shuttered movie palace and romancing the Adele (Laurie Holden) he supposedly left behind. It's the perfect life and, perhaps, the perfect lie. But the truth is bound to surface.

The Majestic is a feel good American movie about patriotism, self-respect and standing up for what is just. This is a lengthy film, but I had no difficulty remaining focused. Jim Carrey gives a great moving performance. The cinematography of this film is absolutely radiant looking. The look, experience, mode and decor of this movie is just first class film making. This film could unquestionably be an instant classic.

The Majestic appears in an aspect ratio of 1.85:1 on this single-sided, double-layered DVD; the image has been enhanced for 16X9 televisions. The film provided a very solid visual experience.  Sharpness was prime, crisp and detailed. No major concerns with jagged edges nor did I find marks of edge enhancement. Colors were marvelous. The film offered a rich and resounding palette. No signs of noise or bleeding. Black levels were deep and lucid; shadow detail was heavy but not exceedingly thick.

The film is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1. Music offered nice stereo resonance, while effects and speech both exhibited fair localization and adherence. Surround effects seemed reasonable but insignificant. Rear speakers came to life adequately well, but they usually provided more support for the forward channels. Audio quality was clear and precise with no signs of manipulation. The films score sounded brisk and vibrant.

Extras are scant, but here they are. First a rather unremarkable feature, the "Sand Pirates Of The Sahara - The Complete Sequence". This sequence is in the film already and doesn't add anything to the DVD by itself. If you count the theatrical trailer and cast/crew highlights as extras, well, you got them here. Other than that, this is it, really.

Should you rent it or buy it? The Majestic may be slow at times, but the story is delivered in a heartwarming and sincere approach. The DVD provides excellent picture and sound plus some average extras.

The Majestic is a compelling movie that deserves your attention. If you already know you like the movie, get this DVD; for everyone else, this film is worth a look for fans of the genre. I highly recommend it.

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