Adapted from the novel which achieved overnight success after being included in the "Oprah Winfrey Book Club," that alone, should not turn viewers away from giving this overlooked film a fair chance.  "WHITE OLEANDER" isn't an easy film to watch. It's extremely depressing at times, but it's also cautiously optimistic, and has a sense of realism to it, uncommon in most films. 

Michelle Pfeiffer stars as the beautiful artist/mom, whom while projecting a "Bohemian" lifestyle, shedding the confines of typical social expectations regarding motherhood, but still wanting the norms of a steady relationship.  When she finds her boyfriend is leaving her, she selfishly kills him.  Unfortunately, as she reveals more about herself, we realize this wasn't just an act of passion, but the actions of a sociopathic, ruthlesss, selfish bitch!  While some may accept her Nietzchean values, it's hard to believe that "anything" she does is with her daughter's best interest in mind.  And, when she helps cause the tragic death of a truly sweet woman via Suicide, later in the film, all chance of sympathy has been thrown out the window.  After killing her boyfriend, her daughter is forced to live in various foster homes, and that's wherein the majority of the film lies.  We witness this young girl bare the unbearable, and be continually let down by figures that are either tragic or plain selfish.  So, why watch the film?  In spite of having to witness some painful moments, the film has a terrific magnetism to it.  It's told in an unusual visual style, making one scene flow right into another.  The acting, by everyone, is sensational! It's hard to fathom that no one was nominated for their work here!

Renee Zellweger, while fine in "CHIACAGO' truly deserves an Oscar for best supporting actress here! 

WARNER BROS. has preserved the film's 1.85:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement.  The image is simply beautiful!  Colors are rich and vibrant in every instance.  Contrast is also excellent, making one of the most beautiful scenes in the film, taking place on a rooftop, at night, look incredible!  Fleshtones appear natural throughout. 

WARNER BROS. has presented a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix.  It's much more aggressive than we'd expected, offering a multitude of directional and ambient effects.  The film's score is also complimented through all the speakers. Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

An audio commentary with the film's director, producer and author of the novel is included.  Unfortunately, novelist Janet Fitch is rarely given the chance to offer her insight into the important themes Kosminsky was trying to present, and it's a very uneven, skewed result. For once, it would've been great to have the director just shut up!

WARNER BROS. has included a "deleted scenes" segment. Some of them are outstanding!  Most importantly, they offer more background to the best part of the film, the relationship fostered between the Renee Zellwegger character and the star, Astrid.  These scenes are presented in widescreen, but without 16:9 enhancement, and vary in quality. 

Two featurettes are included, both offering interviews and some behind-the-scenes type footage, but neither are really entertaining or insightful.

The film's theatrical trailer is included.