Destined to be one of the most controversial films ever made on the issue of racism, "AMERICAN HISTORY X" is monumental in its boldness and unapologetic attitude towards complex issues.  Ed Norton gives his finest performance so far as a vicious neo-nazi, whom after viciously killing three black men, tries to save his younger brother from going down the same hate-filled path he's taken.

Director Tony Kaye tried to have his name removed from credits due to in-fighting during the editing phase of the film(Norton supposedly took over) but, the film is near perfect.  While graphic and unrelenting, it should be mandatory viewing in all high schools!

The dvd transfer is outstanding.  The film is a mixture of color and black and white, and the contrast is flawless in every scene.  Grays and blacks are discernible and there's no artifacting anywhere!  The dolby digital 5.1 sound mix is restrained, used mostly to compliment a moving, sometimes overwhelming musical score.  The deleted scenes segment is interesting and there's one particular scene that should've definitely been left in, but that's for the viewers to decide.

"PLEASANTVILLE" is one of those rare films that actually improves with each viewing.  There are so many nuances throughout the film(Director/writer Gary Ross helps address these in his commentary!), that repeated viewing is almost a must!  Reese Witherspoon and Tobey Maguire are terrific as the young troubled kids thrust by a magical remote control into the seemingly perfect/bland world of '50s television!  But, the rest of the cast is wonderful too! Practically "everyone" gives an Oscar worthy performance, really!

The dvd transfer is incredible!  While the film blends black&white imagery with color, all of it's beautiful.  Fleshtones are perfectly consistent, and contrast is flawless!  There's great clarity in every scene and no artifacting!  The dolby digital 5.1 sound offers a multitude of directional effects, as well as complimenting an unforgettable score from Randy Newman.  NEW LINE also offers the score on an isolated track!  Other supplements include Fiona Apple's music video, directed by her boyfriend, "Magnolia" director Paul Thomas Anderson.  A behind-the-scenes featurette as well as a storyboard gallery and audio commentary are also included.  The theatrical trailer is one of the most moving we've seen as well!!!  Our only criticism:  Writer/director Gary Ross never really addresses the intent behind a surprise moment at the film's last minute!

"DROP DEAD GORGEOUS" died at the box-office, but is given a new chance to win fans with a wonderful dvd presentation from NEW LINE.  Kirsten Dunst and Denise Richards star in this mockumentary take on small town America and its thirst for beauty pageants.Kirstie Alley and Ellen Barkin are wonderful as the "stage-moms" from hell,  making their daughter's and the community's lives a living hell.  While a little to obvious at times, the film has more than its share of funny moments, and the cast is excellent.

The transfer is great, although there are a few brief moments wherein artifacting was noticeable.  The fleshtones are fine and colors are sharp, giving the film a nice polish!  The dolby digital 5.1 sound offers an aggressive mix with directional effects and a great soundtrack!  We're a little disappointed that the two main girls(Dunst and Richards) weren't featured on an audio commentary.  It would've made this dvd perfect, instead of near-perfect!