DVD REVIEW

xXx  (2002)

Starring: Vin Diesel, Asia Argento, Marton Csokas
Director: Rob Cohen

Rating: PG-13

Studio: Columbia

Review Posted: 1.15.03

Spoilers: Minor

By John Teves

Xander “xXx”Cage is a notorious underground thrill seeker who, until now, has been deemed untouchable by the law. NSA Agent Gibbons forces xXx to cooperate with the government to infiltrate an underground Russian crime ring to avoid going to prison. Betting xXx can succeed where other conventional spies have failed, Gibbons sends xXx to enter this world of crime undetected, using his natural athletic prowess and a whole lot of attitude. Enlisted for a dangerous covert mission, he must combat a clever, organized and ruthless crime enemy far beyond the scope of his experience.

This film was a blast! This film is the supreme brainless yet pleasurable and thrilling action film I’ve seen in awhile. What makes xXx different is the "in-your-face," witty and charming attitude our character Xander Cage presents. This is definitely an action movie, and just when you think the action is over, you get some more! Of course, some of the action seemed less than believable, but the film moved at a very good pace so you're likely to overlook this detail.

xXx appears in an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 on this single-sided, dual-layered DVD; the image has been enhanced for 16X9 televisions. xXx looked fantastic. Most of the film appeared clear and crisp, but obvious softness appeared at times. Jagged edges created no concerns, but there was evidence of edge enhancement. In general the film looked clean, no signs of grit or speckles. Colors looked lively and brilliant. Black levels looked deep, while shadow detail was thick. Ultimately, xXx provided a clear presentation.

The DVD presents a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. At first I was disappointed to find the DVD did not offer a DTS track, but nonetheless, the 5.1 mix fulfilled that void. This 5.1 mix was an active bombardment of pure surround heaven. The effects provided material from all five channels most of the time, and it did so in an forceful style. Effects and music score opened from all sides. Without a doubt all five of your speakers are in for a pleasing workout. Audio quality was fine with no noticeable concerns related to edginess. In the end, xXx provided a grand soundtrack. I'm looking forward to the Superbit release at which time Columbia Tri-Star will graciously offer the well-disserved DTS track.

• “A Filmmaker’s Diary” Documentary Audio

• Commentary with Director Rob Cohen
• “Diesel Powered” Featurette
• “Building Speed: The Vehicles of xXx” Featurette
• “Designing the World of xXx” Featurette
• “The GTO Is Back” Featurette
• Deleted Scenes with Optional Director’s Commentary
• Visual Effects “How To’s”
• “Adrenaline” Music Video
• Theatrical Trailers

Overall, xXxhas everything we could hope for in a pointless action flick; the earsplitting music, breathtaking stunts, meaningless action and a charming and clever leading character. The DVD provides great picture and sound as well as a decent amount of extras.

Fans of the film will be most pleased with this DVD. For those of you who are anticipating a DTS version of the film, no need to fear, Columbia Tri-Star will release the Superbit version soon enough. This film comes highly recommend to all action fans.