DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) is the new format for bringing films to your home. With better quality pictures and sound, and extra features generally included as standard on most major releases, it may revolutionise the industry. So, of course, h2g2 has to get in on the act. A quick warning though: DVD distribution is split into several regions all over the world. Due to this, there are slight variations in the different regions' discs. So bear in mind, this review is for region 2 (British)discs.

The Film

Anthony Minghella's first film since "The English Patient" is an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's novel. It tells the story of Tom Ripley (Matt Damon- "Good Will Hunting"), a New York nobody, whose fortunes change on a chance meeting with Herbert Greenleaf. Posing as a Princeton graduate, who knew Greenleaf's son at school, Tom strikes up a friendship with this man, who soon asks a favour of him. He commissions Tom to go to Italy and bring back his wayward son Dickie (Jude Law- "eXistenZ").

Unfortunately, there's just one snag- Tom gradually becomes obsessed with Dickie, and with having his life. This obsession builds to dangerous levels, and leads to a series of tragic events, destroying Tom's life, and many others besides.

The much hyped performances in this film generally live up to expectations. Damon's performance as the title character is good, although perhaps a little difficult to get a handle on. Certainly, despite the best efforts of director and actor, it becomes increasingly difficult to sympathise with the character and by the film's end you almost hope he will be found out. Jude Law's portrayal of the selfish and indulgent Dickie is better- the character is believable, and, pleasingly, the two leads look similar, adding to the Tom's chilling takeover of Dickie's life. And to his credit, Law's accent is spot on.

Speaking of which- to see Gwyneth Paltrow ("Shakespeare in Love") acting with her own accent is a little strange, after that wonderful English one has carried her through so many films. However, she makes the most of a thankless task- her role as innocent, ultimately bereft Marge isn't the most challenging she's ever had. Unfortunately, she cannot save the part completely and the character that should have been the most sympathetic ends up as a somewhat weak and predictable one.

There are some other great parts in the film, particularly the performances from Phillip Seymour Hoffman ("Happiness"), Cate Blanchett ("Elizabeth") and Jack Davenport (TV's "This Life"). The latter two characters provide an ironic situation. In fairly minor roles, they provide the most sympathetic characters- perhaps the only ones who give you a key into this occasionally inaccessible film. It's something of a shame that the characters aren't further developed- but at least they give fuel to the excellent ending.

After the praise that was heaped upon it, "The Talented Mr Ripley" is something of a disappointment. Of course, it's difficult to tell whether the source material could ever have been well adapted for the screen. This reworking at least, ends up a little hollow, despite it's fantastic scenery and acting. Then again, perhaps I didn't like "The English Patient". Perhaps it's just me...

Result: ***

The Disc

Since this film has been the subject of much publicity, it's only right that the disc should be a good one. Fortunately, this doesn't disappoint- included are two theatrical trailers (the teaser and the full-length), two music videos- which at least let you know that it really is Damon and Law singing- and a documentary on the soundtrack. But that's just the icing on the cake. The important parts are two documentaries, and Minghella's commentary. The first documentary deals with what went on behind the scenes, the second is a fairly standard actors love-in. Both are extremely watchable, and give some surprising insights into what the thinking behind the film was. The commentary is as in-depth and interesting as it should be, and certainly lends something to repeated watchings of the film.

Although the film isn't as impressive as perhaps expected, but the disc certainly is. The interesting and entertaining extras add to the film, and make it one well worth a look.

Result:****

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