DVD REVIEW

Truth About Charlie, The  (2002)

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Thandie Newton, Tim Robbins
Director: Jonathan Demme

Rating: R

Studio: Universal

Review Posted: 4.08.03

Reviewed by John Teves

Romance and suspense ignite a modern Paris backdrop in director Jonathan Demme's fresh take on the Stanley Donen film Charade (also included on this disc). Regina (Newton) meets Joshua (Wahlberg) while on vacation, as she's contemplating ending her marriage to Charlie (Stephen Dillane). But upon her return to Paris, she finds that both her apartment and her bank account have been emptied -- and her husband has been murdered.

TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE appears in both an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 for its 2002 remake version and in a 1.35:1 aspect ratio for its original version of the film. Both version of the film have been enhanced for 16x9 televisions. (I will only be commenting on the 2002 release in this case). I felt the film consistently appeared positive. I noticed no concerns related to softness at any time. I detected no signs of speckles or grit during the films presentation. Black levels looked dark and deep, while shadow detail was solid. Low-light sequences showed good definition and accuracy. As a whole, the film transfer for TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE looked positive with no major concerns.

TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE is presented in both Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS track. The mix presented a fairly passive piece that tended to generally reinforce the forward channels. Audio quality appeared good. Speech was natural and clear, as I noticed no issues related to edginess. I felt that track demonstrated some good bass at times as well as some effect surround effects, but overall the film remained downcast. As a whole I thought TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE demonstrated a normal track for this type of film.

- Bonus Movie Charade
- Feature Commentary With Director Jonathan Demme
- Thrilling Deleted Scenes
- The Making of The Truth About Charlie
- Theatrical Trailer
- Production Notes
- Cast & Filmmaker Biographies

 

Overall

THE TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE is, it truly sucks! A moderately lifeless and ridiculous attempt at a spy thriller this film truly is trying to watch; a totally tasteless film. TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE never bothers to attempt any depth. The DVD offers generally strong picture with decent sound plus a minor complement of supplements.

For those who enjoyed the original film, Universal offers both versions of CHARLIE - the 2002 theatrical remake and the original on this DVD disc. Give TRUTH ABOUT CHARLIE a look only if the cast interests you; otherwise, skip this lame spy thriller.

Film Rating: 1 out of 4

Review originally appeared on DVDFreak.net

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