This is an excellent DVD.

The image is wonderful. It does have the occasional ghost effect and shimmering, but nowhere near what we're used to on Hong Kong DVDs. An anamorphic transfer would probably have helped, and added bit of much needed sharpness, but this will do just nicely. There are a few specks on the print but nothing serious.

Generally the colors are a tad subdued, but that seems to be an artistic choice. Some scenes - specially those featuring magic - have strong colors. They are very well rendered, with no bleeding.

The 5.1 Dolby Digital sound is terrific. Good use of surround channels and crisp clear dialogue. The subtitles are white and very clear, but is it me or is the font slightly larger than normal?

The disc includes 3 trailers for the film, plus stars and character bios.

There's also a great "Making of" documentary. It runs 17 minutes, and features interviews, clips and behind the scenes shots. It's not subtitled but still very entertaining. Half the running time is devoted to the digital effects, with plenty of before/after shots. Quite interesting.

Definitely a disc worth checking out.

NOTE: A DTS version of this disc is also available.

David Bjerre