Just debuting for the first time on Blu-ray September 13, 2011. It includes never-before-seen ‘Alternate Final Duel’ scene along with many other extras.
The Synopsis:
Jim Caviezel and Guy Pearce play two long-time friends who become the bitterest of enemies in The Count of Monte Cristo. This tale of adventure and revenge is better than ever thanks to the addition of Blu-ray High Definition!
When the dashing and guileless Edmond Dantes (Caviezel) is betrayed by his best friend (Pearce) and wrongly imprisoned, he becomes consumed by thoughts of vengeance. After a miraculous escape, he transforms himself into the mysterious and wealthy Count of Monte Cristo, insinuates himself into the French nobility, and puts his cunning plan of reprisal in action. Experience the resounding clash of swords and the deadly glint off every razor-sharp blade. With the pristine sound and magnificent picture quality of Blu-ray, this swashbuckling thriller will have you perched on the edge of your seat until the very last drop of sweet revenge is exacted.
This one-disc release lists for $26.50 US / $31.50 CAN and runs for an impressive 131 minutes. Rated PG-13 in the US and PG in Canada.
The Movie:
I enjoyed this movie immensely! It makes you feel for the main character as he is wronged in so many ways, and root for him as he makes his way back from what can only be viewed as a very real Hell. Revenge isn’t the nicest topic but it is what drives this movie forward. Although you know it isn’t the best reason for living, you believe in how one man could be so totally consumed by it. And, despite yourself, you hope his plans to ruin all of the people who wronged him succeed!
As in all great movies, good prevails, and our hero finds redemption and peace by the end of the movie. Although there are many fine action sequences in this movie, it’s real strengtha are in the characters and the superb storytelling. Be sure to watch for the little flourishes, such as the chess piece, throughout.
Bonus Features:
5 Deleted Scenes with commentary
These scenes were cut from the final film for good reason, as they would have added little more of value. But the alternate final duel was interesting. You get to see how the climatic battle was originally shot, and in my opinion, why it was re-shot to much better effect. A definite highlight of the disc.
“The Napoleonic World” – Production Design Featurette
Like most of the extras on this disc, it is short and sweet. But it does take you on a scouting trip of possible locations for the film and gives a glimpse into how the final locations were chosen and why.
“En Garde” – Multi-Angle Sword Fighting Feature
Not the most interesting bonus feature, but for film fans, a pleasant enough distraction. Learn how the Director used multiple cameras to get coverage of the final duel scene.
“The Pen” – A Retrospective on author Alexandre Dumas
This was by far the most interesting bonus feature. I learned things about Dumas I never knew before which helped me to appreciate the man behind one other little classic called The Three Musketeers. A must-see!
“Adapting A Classic” – Screenwriting Segment
My second-favorite of the bonus material. Learn the difference between writing a good book and making a successful movie.
“The Clash of Steel” – Stunt Choreography Piece
Another short but entertaining look at the behind-the-scenes work that goes into every Hollywood picture. This time we hear from the man who trained the leads in swordplay. Watching the rehearsals was fun!
Layer-By-Layer and the Audio Commentary round out the Bonus Features.
Final Comments:
I saw this movie when it first came out but had forgotten most of the storyline. So for me it was like watching a whole new movie for the first time! And what a treat it turned out to be. As the Screenwriter, Jay Wolpert, said in the Screenwriting Segment: His job wasn’t to adapt the book, but to write a good movie. And that he did!
So if you plan to take my recommendation and see this movie: Prepare for Adventure. Count on Revenge!
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