SRP $24.95 2.35:1(16:9) DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 COLUMBIA TRISTAR

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has revisited one of their earlier dvd releases, “THE PEOPLE VS. LARRY FLYNT,” for a “Special Edition” re-release! 

Woody Harrelson gives a fine performance as the pornographer/constitutional rights protector, Larry Flynt, but it’s Ed Norton, in yet another outstanding performance, who steals the show, from many other great performances.  Even Courtney Love is impressive as Flynt’s doomed girlfriend, Althea. 

While the film does a fine job at giving an overview of Flynt’s background, it focuses on his battles with conservatives such as Jerry Falwell and others, and manages to express its concerns for freedom of speech, without resorting to debasing opposing viewpoints.  

COLUMBIA TRISTAR appears to have presented the same transfer as was available on the earlier release.  The 2.35:1 aspect ratio is intact, with 16:9 enhancement.  Colors are generally solid, but the picture varies from looking soft or grainy in spots.  Contrast is fine, with deep blacks and grays, however it’s lacking in the definition apparent on many superior COLUMBIA TRISTAR releases.  Fleshtones appear natural. 

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has presented a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix for this release, and upon comparison to the older disc, there appears to be no difference. While there are some surround/directional effects, they’re generally restrained. Separation is focused almost entirely on the front speakers, except for the musical cues, wherein all speakers are used to boost the great score.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 

COLUMBIA TRISTAR has provided some extras for this “Special Edition.”  One of them features writers Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski.  Aspiring writers will love it, but probably no one else. These two provide plenty of information about the writing process.  Not overly entertaining, but certainly educational.  The 2^nd commentary features Harrelson, Love and Norton.  All three were recorded separately, so it misses the light-hearted banter style of other collaborative commentaries, but each contributes some worthwhile insight.  Unfortunately Director Milos Forman isn’t on either, and his insight is sorely missed!

The best supplements for this “Special Edition” are definitely the documentaries.  “FREE SPEECH OR PORN” offers interviews with the cast, director, and most noteably,…Flynt and Falwell!  There are some great screen-tests, as well as behind-the-scenes moments and more! 

“LARRY FLYNT EXPOSED,” is essentially a biography of the publisher, narrated by Dennis Hopper.  While there is a delete scenes section, it’s a bit disappointing. It only offers two brief scenes, one of which has the option of commentary by Harrelson. The 2^nd scene has an option for commentary with the two writers. Neither of these scenes adds to the film.  Several trailers are included.