Μύ "You'll never be young again," purrs Anne Bancroft to Dustin Hoffman in "The Graduate". While that's true enough, the movie is fresh and young again, thanks to a beautiful DVD release.
That this film should ever have been shown on TV or released on video squashed in a pan and scan version is disgusting. This is a prime example of a director who has mastered the art of using the widescreen format to communicate in a second what would take others pages of script. Presented in the original 2.35:1 letterbox ratio on disc, this is a transfer that is stunning in clarity and rich with colour. As with the DVD release of "Bridge on the River Kwai", this is a revelation.
Accompanying the sensual teasing on-screen is a handsome 2.0 sound mix that brings the best out of the Simon & Garfunkel music, and adds atmosphere with some well placed effects.
A five-minute interview with Dustin Hoffman and a fascinating documentary "The Graduate at 25" make up the extra features. These include interviews with producer Lawrence Turman, scriptwriter Buck Henry, and the ever-youthful Katharine Ross. Among the revelations are some interesting original casting choices and a screen test of Ross.
A limited edition 64-page book with production notes and a collection of articles and reviews from the original theatrical release, wraps up a DVD that, like Anne Bancroft, asks, "Would you like me to seduce you?"
Chapters: 16
Region: 2
Ratio: 2.35:1 (Anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 2.0
Extra Features: Scene selection, interview with Dustin Hoffman, "The Graduate at 25" documentary, photo gallery, trailer, 64-page companion book, animated menus, multiple languages, subtitles.
