FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT deserves credit for releasing the entirely overlooked, box-office loser,
"SMILLA'S SENSE OF SNOW".  While it's easy to justify releasing mediocre box-office successes like "PORKY'S", it takes guts to release a film as unusual as "SMILLA", and it's even more impressive to see that FOX has given such careful attention to its dvd presentation, even in terms of offering Dolby Digital 5.1, while the laserdisc only offered Dolby Surround.

While the film is a mystery, it's also a great character study.  Julia
Ormond stars as Smilla, a soft-spoken woman with an unusual talent.  One night, while returning to her apartment, she learns that a young
neighborhood boy has just fallen from the top of a roof and died.  The death appears to be accidental, as the boy was said to have been playing, but Smilla soon suspects otherwise, and begins her own investigation.

Smilla is continually confronted with unique and mysterious characters.  Her neighbor, Gabriel Byrne, at first seems like a decent, concerned man wanting to aid her in her investigation.  But, he, just like most of the characters in this film, may have ulterior motives, as we and "she' suspect by their unusual actions.  Everything about the film's setting, characters, and narrative, seems mysterious.  Even the film's opening sequence is strangely reminiscent of the "X-FILES" movie, including a bizarre "epic-like" disaster, with big "special effects". 

The acting, especially in respect to Ormond, is excellent.  While she's cold and distant, she seems "real".  Unfortunately, Richard Harris' character appears too contrived, even though he does his best at making it believable.

FOX has provided a fine transfer here.  While the opening segment is a
little soft, the image quickly improves, achieving and maintaining a sharp
and detailed look.  There is some minor pixelation, but the color values are extremely good and make up for these minor flaws.  The film's original 2.35:1 aspect ratio is intact with 16:9 enhancement. 

The Dolby Digital 5.1 sound mix is usually restrained, but surrounds are
effective when used.  The musical score is excellent, and this mostly
dialogue-driven film offers well focused center channel placement.  It's
also free from distortion.

A brief featurette, lasting about five minutes, and focusing on
"self-promotion" is offered.  There's some interesting behind-the-scenes
footage however. 
The film's original theatrical trailer is offered as well as trailers for
"GRAND CANYON" and some other FOX dvd releases.