Almost every one of Adrian Lyne’s films has epitomized the idea of style over substance, “FLASHDANCE,” being just one example.  “JACOB’S LADDER” at least had a great script, but it actually suffered due to Lyne’s “vision.”   He actually, for a change had a terrific script, and opted to change it, calling attention to his visual sense rather than allowing the story speak for itself.

Now, with a well-crafted script, and very capable actors, Lyne has created a terrific film with “UNFAITHFUL.”    Richard Gere stars as Charlie, a generally successful businessman, happy to live a quiet life with his wife Connie and their son in a suburb of New York. It’s hard to think of a role in which Gere was more likeable than he is here.  Charlie’s just a really nice guy.  Unfortunately, while Connie appears to be decent, not only does she not hesitate, but she actually pursues an affair. At the risk of sounding chauvinistic, there is a definite difference between Connie’s infidelity and that of Michael Douglas’ character in Fatal Attraction.  Connie is much more callous about it, and while Douglas’ cheating was also wrong, he at least felt some guilt and remorse. Connie continues her affair, showing no signs of guilt, and no concern for her own family.  In one scene she tells her paramout he’s the first and last thing she thinks about every day.  Not her own child, mind you, but rather the lover!  Connie is one of the most selfish characters displayed on screen ever, and it’s very difficult to not actually hate her all the way through the film’s conclusion. 

The intelligent script never cheats and takes the easy way out of things.  People behave realistically, for better or worse.  And in the film’s surprising finale’, “UNFAITHFUL” ends up being a wonderfully moral film as well. 

20^th CENTURY FOX has provided 2 separate releases for “UNFAITHFUL”, one in widescreen, and another in full frame.  We’ve only reviewed the widescreen version.  This letterboxed version offers the image in its correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  Lyne loves to create painting-like images, and the colors are generally rich.  There’s great detail in every scene, and contrast is flawless.  There are several key scenes which have an intentionally dark look with low-lighting, and there’s still great clarity to them.   Fleshtones appear natural throughout. A great transfer!

The Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is also outstanding.  While it’s not a directional-effects heavy mix, there are many ambient effects.  Surrounds are used effectively during crucial scenes, and the beautiful, hypnotic score grabs hold of the audience, engulfing it with all speakers.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 
 

TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX has loaded this dvd with extras!  

Lyne provides a running commentary on an optional track and while it’s not “entertaining”, it is engaging.  He shows his passion and enthusiasm for the film throughout, as well as providing a great deal of insight into the filmmaking process.  “UNFAITHFUL” is arguably his best and most intelligent work to date, and while he’s provided several commentaries for other films, this one is his most intellectually stimulating one. 

Diane Lane and Oliver Martinez provide selective commentary on another track, and it’s much more light-hearted and carefree than Lyne’s, while still providing insight into both the story and the acting process.  Unfortunately, Richard Gere isn’t on either commentary!  We do get to hear him, however, along with Lyne and Lane in an interview, shown in its entirety, of their interview on the “CHARLIE ROSE SHOW.” 

A deleted scenes section provides 11 deleted scenes, all with optional commentary from Lyne. They didn’t add enough to the story to make their inclusion worthwhile, and the film stands on its own perfectly, just as it is! They’re all presented in 1.85:1 with 16:9 enhancement. 

An alternate ending is also featured, which we actually preferred.  Nothing about the film’s conclusion is changed with this alternate ending, however, there’s a little more said leading up to the film’s closing credits, which we found more moving. 

A featurette, “ON THE SET OF UNFAITHFUL”, is provided, offering behind-the-scenes footage and some insight into the film which served as the inspiration for this very loose remake, from Lyne.

A separate featurette, “ANNE COATS ON EDITING” allows the respected editor to discuss the process, and examines some editing decisions made for “UNFAITHFUL.” 

The original theatrical trailer, also quite remarkable, is also included!