"THE ROAD TO WELLVILLE" has its fans, and this reviewer, admittedly, isn't one of them!  Adapted from the cult-ish novel by T.C. Boyle, Alan Parker's script and film explores turn-of-the-century class structure and the penchant for the rich and famous to get down in the dirt when it comes to either "new age" or "snake oil", as is the case here. 

Hopkins, always a pleasure to watch, intentionally overacts here, but he's given some competition in this feat by Matthew Broderick, and almost everyone else. Nothing about the film seems real, with the exception of John Cusack, having no problems "underplaying" a role. 

The film is set, for the most part at a retreat run by Hopkins, playing  Kellog(that's right, the one whom created cornflakes) and the lush surroundings actually are complimented in this transfer.  This is no small feat, when considering COLUMBIA TRISTAR declined to release this in its proper aspect ratio and 16:9 enhancement.  While the image looks a bit soft in spots, it's generally solid, and colors are vibrant.  Contrast is fine, although blacks and grays aren't as discernible in darker sequences, as they are in the best transfers.

The Dolby Digital 2.0 mix is generally restrained. While there are a few surround effects, most directionality is focused on the front soundstage. The wonderful score is well complimented with all speakers. Dialogue is always intelligible and free of distortion.

There are several trailers included. .