It's easy to be underwhelmed with "The Big Lebowski"  if you're expecting another "Fargo".  It's nothing like it!   While it recalls some of  the innovative humor found in "Raising Arizona", it's not non-stop funny like that classic either!   However, fans of the Coen brothers will undoubtedly appreciate that at its worst, "The Big Lebowski" is unusual, unpredictable, and amusing.  The plot finds Jeff Bridges as a "totally" laid back "dude" caught up in a case of mistaken identity, kidnapping and more!   The acting by everyone, including John Goodman, is outstanding.   Ben Gazzara is on hand, taking part in one of the funniest gags of the whole film.  The cinematography is unforgettable, perfectly captured with its entire composition intact due to the letterboxed option of the dvd.  A full frame version is also available.   Both versions have excellent contrast and fleshtones.  The musical soundtrack benefits greatly with the superb dolby digital 5.1 soundtrack.  In addition, the soundtrack offers extremely active directional effects. 

The gritty world of a Kingston ghetto is the backdrop for this tale of a mother trying to escape from poverty, the ruthless man trying to seduce her daughter, and other turmoil.   Jamaica is a land offering incredible images, and the transfer captures numerous compositions well, although letterboxing would have helped.  The dolby digital stereo does its best to capture the energy and the freedom that the music and dancing offers, but again,  a "5.1" track would've boosted the appeal of this dvd.

Fans of "Mr. Bean"  will only be disappointed that this compilation of Rowan Atkinson's Chaplin-like character is only 78 minutes long!  There are 11 sketches, but "Mr. Bean takes an Exam" is our personal favorite.  Even after several viewings, like most Chaplin shorts, it's still funny!  The transfer is excellent with perfect contrast and color values.  The dolby surround sound offers few effects but the comedy doesn't rely on soundmix, rather on clever timing and Atkinson's skilled performance. Perfect for repeated viewings.

Bon Jovi fans will be enthralled with the energetic approach filmmakers have taken in capturing Bon Jovi Live at Wembley Stadium on June 25, 1995.  The cameras glide along when they need to, and the rest of the time they're in positions giving an optimum view of various members of the group giving a passionate performance.  The transfer looks fine although it's too grainy at given moments.  One major disappointment is the lack of  a "5.1"  track.  The Dolby Digital stereo lacks the power that this concert deserves.

There's no denying the purple dinosaur's grip on children, and with "Barney's Great Adventure" at least children are learning in an entirely non-harmful way.   No one could accuse a Barney film of having "hidden" messages!   Barney takes the gang to Grandpa's farm in the search of a magic egg.  There's plenty of children's songs, all the merrier in a dolby digital 5.1 track.  The full frame version is the only one offered here, but there doesn't appear to have been anything missing that would have been saved with letterboxing.  The transfer looks great and colors are sharp.