Without a doubt, one of the most overlooked, entertaining films of the past year is the Disney film, “REIGN OF FIRE.”  In spite of a poorly conceived marketing campaign, which caused the film to barely play in theaters, the studio has given a lot more care and attention to the dvd release. 

One of the best things going for the film is its director, Rob Bowman.  Bowman directed some of the best episodes of “THE X FILES” as well as the theatrical version. 

Bowman is one of those rare directors whose films have an identity of their own.  He knows how to make a slick film without sacrificing content. 

“REIGN OF FIRE” has an opening sequence set in modern-day London, with a young boy visiting his mom, a construction worker, at an underground tunnel.  After a cavernous space is opened up during a drilling, the boy, Quinn ventures in and finds a dragon.  It’s not “Pete’s Dragon” this time.  This one shoots fire with horrific consequences.  Quinn escapes, but not before seeing his mother killed by the beast.

In the brilliant news montage that follows, similar in its tone to the one presented in “THE ROAD WARRIOR,” we learn that 20 years have passed since the dragon’s lair had been opened, and the dragons have multiplied in the millions!  Nuclear weapons were used, but to no avail, and now the human survivors are scattered about, living in primitive conditions.  One group of survivors is led by a now grown Quinn. They live in an old castle, living on scarce rations, and with home-made, but elaborate contraptions, meant to give warning of any dragons approaching. 

It becomes evident that these survivors are trapped in their castle, as leaving it brings about probable death-by-fire.  This is demonstrated in an effectively, nail-biting sequence within the film’s first half-hour. 

Things look up for the castle’s tenants when a rag-tag team of American Soldiers show up, full of brawn and weaponry.  Matthew McConaughey is perfect in this role, and adds another creative dimension to the film through his characterization. 

The special effects are outstanding!  While there are many films utilizing CGI effects, most don’t look as impressive as what’s been achieved here.  These dragons don’t ever look cartoonish.

Buena Vista Home Video has preserved the original 2.35:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  It’s a sensational transfer! This is truly a “demonstration” disc!  Colors are rich, and even though there’s an intentionally gritty design to much of the film, there’s excellent detail and depth in every scene.  Contrast is flawless, with deep blacks and grays.

BUENA VISTA has presented both a DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 and DTS 5.1 option for the soundmix.  This is an aggressive soundmix!  There’s plenty of surround involvement, engulfing the audience like the dragons engulf their prey.  Directional effects are virtually non-stop, with dragons whooshing around the viewer in all directions.  One of the most spectacular sight&sound experiences occurs during a skydiving sequence in the film’s first hour, and it’s recommended for the perfect scene to demonstrate” the potential of a great dvd/home theater experience.  Dialogue is intelligible and free from distortion.  Both the Dolby Digital and “DTS” are excellent mixes, however, the “DTS” mix offers better detail and bass, in almost every instance.  We can’t praise BUENA VISTA enough for their choice to regularly include DTS with their releases.

BUENA VISTA has included several featurettes.  “CONVERSATIONS WITH ROB BOWMAN” allows the director to discuss his inspirations for the film.  “IF YOU CAN’T TAKE THE HEAT,…” examines the real-time effects employed in the film. “BREATHING LIFE INTO TERROR” offers several brief interviews.