Le Divorce

"The team of Ismail Merchant and James Ivory forgo their commonly used classical stories to adapt this novel, set in contemporary Paris, by Diane Johnson. The little-seen movie may be helped by the home video release, but this DVD wouldn't be the reason to see it. If it wasn't for a wonderful transfer, with both 2.35:1 and pan-and-scan versions available on the same disc, there would be little going for this title. The picture is quite good though, with superb use of color throughout and a particularly strong focus on a natural appearance. Paris has never looked more beautiful. The sound, offering both Dolby Digital 5.1 tracks in English and French (with subtitles at the right times) is primarily focused up front, with only a sporadic tease of the surrounds. Nothing more would be expected for this dialogue-driven film. What is truly missing, however, are supplements, which are simply non-existent. Other than some colorful animated menus, nothing, not even the film's trailer, is included. Le Divorce is an odd, not always interesting nor satisfying blend of humor and drama. As with the movie, this disc isn't necessarily interesting or satisfying either."