NEW LINE has packaged a terrific release for the dvd presentation of "BOILER ROOM", an adolescent version of "Wall Street".  While the film fails on most every level, it's still an interesting failure, making the commentary offered with director/writer Ben Younger that much more worthwhile.  Younger credits the films he "borrows" from, but doesn't seem to realize there's "nothing" original in his film.  That would be alright, if Younger was able to at least present a unique style to the film, but he fails here too!  The acting is impressive, and except for a dreadful cameo from Ben Affleck(not his fault, blame Younger trying to rip off Baldwin's Glengarry moment!) makes up for much of the film's problems.

The transfer is outstanding.  While the film has an intentionally gritty look to it, it's not grainy and there's great depth and contrast. The dolby digital 5.1 soundtrack offers a multitude of directional effects as well as a decent score, also featured on an isolated track(with 5.1!) 

There is a deleted scenes section with an alternate ending.  While one of the deleted scenes is actually quite good, the film is already far too long, and its inclusion wouldn't have improved the film overall.  The alternate ending, while intriguing, couldn't make up for the film's flaws either.

NEW LINE offers one of their most supplement-filled releases with "DETROIT ROCK CITY".  The film is a homage to the rock group Kiss, focusing on a boy(Edward Furlong) and his friends out to see and meet their idols, KISS.  The film has a great sense of nostalgia, something akin to what the television series "Freaks and Geeks" tried for but failed at!  There are great comedic moments between the sagging moments, and the film generally keeps a brisk pace for its 95 minute duration. 

The 1.85:1(16:9) transfer is often gritty, but it appears to be intentional.  The contrast is decent, and color values are sharp. The dolby digital 5.1 soundtrack is outstanding, with great separation and great bass!  The supplements are extensive. There are three(3) audio commentaries, one with the original rock group, which is funny and nostalgic, one with the film's director, and one with the cast and crew.  All of them are worth listening to, adding greatly to the dvd's overall value!  The two music videos are inconsequential.

NEW LINE has included a neat option with their release of "THE ASTRONAUT'S WIFE".  Now, viewers can actually read the screenplay while watching the film.  It's more entertaining than subtitles and captures the "intended" nuances of Director/Writer Ravich's film.  Unfortunately, the film is a mixed bag.  While compelling, it falls flat far before the film's horrible and anti-climatic ending.  Still, fans of films like "Rosemary's Baby" will be kept in suspense through most of the film.

The dvd transfer is first-rate, with great depth and contrast in even the darkest scenes.  The dolby digital 5.1 soundtrack is filled with directional effects, and even the most subtle atmospheric effects work well.

Completely overlooked at theaters, "PUMP UP THE VOLUME" is a highly entertaining, original, funny film with a message.  Christian Slater stars as a daring DJ(perhaps a young Howard Stern type) who's not afraid to take on anyone or any issue.  After taking on a school principal, the FCC gets involved, and the film's message about being a rebel "with" a cause takes on great meaning.

The dvd looks terrific with bright colors, perfect fleshtones, and fine contrast.  There is some minimal artifacting.  The dolby digital 5.1 sound mix offers some directional effects, but is used primarilly to boost the film's terrific soundtrack.

Director/writer Steven Baigelman's overlooked "Feeling Minnesota" gets a well deserved "new" lease on life, thanks to NEW LINE's wonderful dvd presentation.  Anyone whom has seen this in its typical cropped form, is missing a great deal of important visual information, pertinent to the sight gags Baigelman has created.  Keanu Reeves is actually pretty decent here as a drifter whom falls for the bride of his brother's wedding. 

The film takes on a very dark comedic atmosphere at times, but is ultimately actually sweet and funny.

The dvd transfer looks wonderful with the 16:9 enhancement offering great contrast and color control to the 2.35:1 aspect ratio.  Although a pan&scan version is offered, don't waste your time.  The dolby digital 5.1 soundtrack offers some fun directional effects, but is most effective in its presentation of a great soundtrack.

Luke Perry stars in the based-on-fact story of Rodeo star Lane Frost, killed by a bull at an early age.  Director John Avildsen tries for a "Rocky-esque" feel to this film, and while it doesn't succeed on that level, it has small aspirations which it achieves.

The transfer looks quite good, much sharper than the laserdisc version, with virtually no grain, and sharp color values.  The dolby digital 5.1 soundtrack is expansive with directional effects throughout and the musical score is quite good.