In this decidedly "Hitchcockian" thriller, Sandra Bullock stars as a computer nerd, wanting nothing more than to enjoy a well deserved vacation, but instead, becomes an unwitting pawn in a conspiracy meant to thwart government and big business through a software allowing unimpeded access to any program.  Being a computer analyst and a shut-in working from home, when Bullock meets and falls for a handsome stranger on vacation, her world appears to be too good to be true.  Soon enough, her vacation becomes a nightmare that even American Express can't fix for her, as her identity becomes non-existent, thanks to evil-doers and the mid-90s preconceptions as to what technology over the net would do.  Bullock must try to regain her identity, and solve a mystery, all while on the run, before her time runs out.  The pacing is pretty good here, and Bullock is so likeable that her presence overcomes most of the glaring flaws in logic throughout the film, but, by the conclusion, one feels we've all seen this kind of film before, and many times!

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has provided a new transfer for this release.  The film's original 1.85:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  In comparison to the previous release, there is less grain present, but it's still annoying in a few spots.  Fleshtones, as with the previous version, are excellent.  There isn't much difference discernible between this and the previous release, except for the fact that there is slightly better contrast, offering deeper blacks and grays.  

The Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is also generally comparable to the previous version. The surround effects are generally restrained, sparing a few action sequences.  But, the wonderful musical score is boosted with the surround presence, and there are more LFE moments on this release.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.  While this isn't an extremely active mix, there are quite a few directional effects in the front soundstage.

There are two commentaries offered for this "Special Edition", one with the film's director and producer offers some interesting production information, but most of the time is spent reiterating what we already see onscreen.

The better of the two commentaries, features the film's writers.  While there are some long passages of silence, at least these two guys are passionate about their craft, and it comes across!  They also explain some major differences between their original concept and what made it to the screen.

There are two featurettes offered.  One is simply the HBO "Making-of" segment, allowing for interviews and some behind-the-scenes" footage.  A new featurette:From script to screen, delves a little bit more into the film's development and eventual casting.  The film's original trailer, with 16:9 enhancement, is also offered.