View Full Version : Commentaries: Rate & Slate 'Em Here !!!
OK, here is a thread that i thought might be beneficial to old and new DVD'ers alike. After thinking about a rating system on another thread i've decided to just see if people will post comments about particular good or bad comms. Anyway feel free to post about fave commentaries or ones you wish you'd never bothered with.
My current Fave's
Armageddon - Informative and Humerous, Affleck is very self depreciating and Bay and Bruckheimer insightful
Scream Interesting facts about the cuts that were made
From Dusk 'Till Dawn Quentin's first and Rodriguez his usual best. Feels like your listening to them in a bar. Great stuff.
Star Wars: TPM I thought Lucas was a bit boring but McKallum and the editor were entertaining
Bad Boys I think this was Bay's first and he is both funny and open about the choices he made and the fact this was his first 'proper' movie and the troubles he had.
El Mariachi/Desperado Both films feature some of the best comm around. The fact that Rodriguez prepares before hand with notes is commendable. You want to know anything about film listen to a Rodriguez comm.
Toy Story 1 + 2 Entertaining to a certain degree. Great banter between the guys talking, but not one of my favourites.
Swordfish A funny one this one in that you think it's going to be Sena pointing out every plot detail but it does actually become better towards the end as he describes certain effects and the troubles accomplishing them.
Gladiator I think Ridley Scott provides an informative and entertaining comm on this. He can be quite dry but i think that is just Ridley's nature.
Blair Witch Project Been a while since i heard this but i remember some great lines about them in the woods and having to wear protection to stop them poking their eyes out. Good all round comm.
Out of Sight Soderburgh gives an all round description of the movie, been a while since i've seen it but i remember it was a good one.:nuts:
Fight Club I've only heard the first 3 so far, the Fincher one is worth a listen if your a FC fan, the second with Fincher, Pitt and Norton is ( i think) a comm everyone should listen to if they have the film. Classic. Pitt and Fincher work well together and they all come up with anecdotes and jokes. Very entertaing. The third one is more serious but nonetheless worhty of a listen. I'll update when i've heard the fourth.
Se7en Only heard the first one on this, Freeman, Pitt and Fincher. I thought Freeman's input was a little dry but it bounced well off of Fincher and Pitt's remeniscing. A fun comm. As for the other three i can't say of as yet.
T2 This comm is packed with people talking about all aspects of the film. But i have trouble remembering any of it. I think a Cameron only track would have been good.
My personal duds.
Mystery Men This is a real snoozer. Kinka Usher practically praises everyone involved in the film which can be soooooo boring.
Go It's been a long time since i heard this one but i do remember being very bored. I think their was some choice moments esp when they're in Las Vegas but i would say listen to this if you don't have any of the ones listed above.
Me, Myself and Irene My all time worst. This comm gave me the idea to start up a thread like this. The farrelly's are so dull it's unbelievable. They name check EVERYONE in the film. It's like sitting with them whilst they're going through a photo album. Very dire.
Well there you go for the minute, there are loads of others i've heard but these are my main rated or slated. So if you've got any of the above and thought 'Oooh i wonder what that comm is like' then i hope you get a better idea.
The point is to get an idea about wether it's worth committing to a comm or not, so post your rated and slated here and hopefully we can get an enjoyable and comprenehsive list of the best comms out there and ones that should be avoided at all costs.
The Thing & Big Trouble in Little China. Commentaries don't get better than Kurt Russel and John Carpenter ******* themselves over the dodgy special effects :D All time favs. The Mallrats comm was pretty good so will be looking forward to listening to the Clerks one when I got time. Speaking of Clerks the animated series was pretty good in parts.
Michael Brooke
14-11-2001, 09:20
Commentators who are always worth listening to:
<B>Bey Logan</B> - absolutely stunning commentaries that cram in more material than you would have thought possible. Delivery is rapid but essential given the sheer quantity of info. Examples: <I>The Big Boss, Fist of Fury, Way of the Dragon, Game of Death, Police Story, Once Upon a Time in China, Close Encounters of the Spooky Kind</I> and a few other Hong Kong Legends titles. Not to be confused with his HKL stablemate Stefan Hammond, who is nowhere near as good.
<B>Herschell Gordon Lewis</B> - the absolute master of the "yes, it's crap, so what?" school, what's particularly irresistible about a Lewis commentary is the sheer incredulity that people are still interested in his work three or four decades later! Examples: <I>Blood Feast, 2000 Maniacs, Color Me Blood Red, The Gruesome Twosome, She-Devils On Wheels, The Wizard Of Gore, The Gore Gore Girls</I>.
<B>John Waters</B> - one of the most natural commentators around, and I actually much prefer his films with a commentary to those without, as they turn reasonably amusing comedies into non-stop laugh riots. Examples: <I>Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble, Desperate Living, Polyester, Hairspray, Serial Mom, Pecker, Cecil B DeMented</I>.
<B>Ridley Scott</B> - invariably highly intelligent and articulate, and always worth a listen: <I>Alien, Thelma & Louise, Gladiator, Hannibal</I>.
<B>Peter Cowie</B> - superb critical commentaries on Criterion DVDs: <I>Grand Illusion, The Seventh Seal</I>.
<B>Martin Scorsese</B> - has commented on more films by other people than himself, but on the strength of <I>Black Narcissus, The Red Shoes</I> and <I>The Last Temptation of Christ</I> he's well worth listening to.
Arch Stanton
14-11-2001, 09:50
Blood Simple: The only commentry i've listened to twice.
Kenneth Loring Of Forever Young Films takes you through the film and tells you about the cuts made to the story to remove M Emmet Walsh's charecters son from the film. How the actors were hung upside down to get the driving in the rain shots. How Mr Loring tryed to buy the rights of the Merchant Ivory back catalog but ended up in a fist fight with Nick Nolte and his luck in aquiring lots of Wrestling films from a begger whilst holidaying in Mexico.
I've not made any of that lot up.
Honest.
Good commentaries:
Any Kevin Smith, particularly Mallrats and the animated Clerks. Funny and with a lot of great info.
Fight Club - as previously mentioned.
League of Gentlemen (both series) - funny and informative, though series 2 is not informative enough!
Spaced series 1 - Best. Commentary. Ever.
Bad... Baaaad commentaries.
Any Tim Burton, dullest man alive.
In the Mouth of Madness - So... how did you light this scene? How 'bout this one? and this?
Omen 3 - stops halfway through????
The worst one has to be Brendon Fraser in The Mummy totally boring. Mind you the one by Arnold Vosloo and the rest was really good.
Useful one was in American Beauty it showed who actually killed him.
Personally I love Paul Verhoeven commentaries (he's more than a little 'eccentric') and hate Tim Burton ones.
American Beauty is the commentary of one man making love to himself. Made me hate the film and Mendes even more! 'This shot is so beautiful', etc, etc.
Just finished all 198 mins of JFK! (from the 4 disc box set) Some gaps, quite informative, but nothing overly special. Although I did learn that Jack Ruby, whom I was convinced was played by a heavily made up Bill Murray, was played by Murray's brother!
Cap'n Al
14-11-2001, 17:05
Originally posted by PaulaB
Useful one was in American Beauty it showed who actually killed him.
Wasn't it blatantly obvious from the film???? I mean, if a character comes into a room covered in blood and holding a gun after another character's murder, isn't it self-explanatory?
Great commentaries not yet mentioned:
Any of the Monty Python team, especially Terry Gilliam's.
PT Anderson's on Boogie Nights (which might be the best filmmaker commentary I've ever heard)
Anthony Minghella on The Talented Mr Ripley; while the film splits audiences down the middle, it's a fantastically detailed and very intelligent discussion of the film.
NexusSheep
14-11-2001, 18:49
I think McG's commentary on Charlie's Angels was quite good. I don't remember the guy pausing for breath; talk about enthusiastic! Other faves include:
The Blair Witch Project
Ronin - John Frankenheimer
Thelma & Louise - Ridley Scott (my fave Director!)
There are many more I haven't listened to, including several by Bey Logan. Must get around to it soon....
V - The Original Mini Series
Fascinating insight into how the first series was made, and should be listened to by any fan of V.
Kit_Taylor
14-11-2001, 20:04
Anthony Wong's commentary on The Untold Story is an abomination. No wonder it isn't listed on the box cover, it's far, far worse than even The Matrix. Even under heavy prompting from an interviewer he frequently just flat out ignores, Wong almost literally just mumbles something trivial every minute or so. It's a real shame as there's a good bit of discussion to be had about this Cat III "classic." Worst thing is, it nuked any respect I'd had for him as an actor.
Michael Mackenzie
14-11-2001, 20:47
Without a doubt the worst two commentaries I have ever heard are the Brendan Frazer one on The Mummy Ultimate Edition and the one on The Matrix. Truly dire stuff with very little content.
My personal favorites right now are Hannibal, Antz and the Japanese one on Final Fantasy. All very informative, and in the case of FF, unintentionally amusing (the amount of laughter in that track is quite disturbing, eg. "Look, in this shot the sun is rising." "Hahahahahahaha!!!").
Thanks for the heads up on Final Fantasy i have that one but it was putting it off thinking it might be a chore. I'll try that one next. Ta Whiggles :D
Shrek Not the best Comm by any stretch of the imagination but at least the three contributors bounced off each other well. They did sound as though they were forced into doing it and as such they make snide remarks about who would listen to the comm track. Still, worth a listen.
Kit_Taylor
14-11-2001, 23:56
I've just listened to the group commentary on Das Boot, and it's a real corker, although it rips the film to shreds by being brutally honest about all the shortcuts they made. It's got it all: banter, lots of really geeky technical detail and quality anecdotes.
Did you know that whilst they were filming, Steven Spielberg borrowed the U-boat to use in Raiders of the Lost Ark?
Oh, and it was broken when he gave it back.
StuBruise
15-11-2001, 03:06
Originally posted by kingmob
Spaced series 1 - Best. Commentary. Ever.
Still working my way through it, but best quote so far: "I can't believe some of the @@@@ I used to do with you!" -- had me in stitches :D
Haven't had time to listen to it all yet but the director/writer commentary for The Limey seems, from what I've heard, to be pretty good -- some bickering here and there, which is always nice, and some tricksy playing around with commentary convention (sound effects, playing with the timeline, leaving in studio operators' instructions etc.).
Clerks made me laugh lots, especially the semi-comatose Jason Mewes :)
I'm sure I read somewhere about a commentary where one of the participants angrily storms out part-way through; did I imagine this or does it really exist? :)
~~stu
"I'm sure I read somewhere about a commentary where one of the participants angrily storms out part-way through; did I imagine this or does it really exist?"
-----
this could be the first Dogma SE commentary (the one with absolutely everybody) where producer Scott Mosier supposedly left in disgust when the commentary degenerated into what people would be watching on TV that night.
Hence the inclusion of a more technical commentary with Smith, Mosier and Periera alone.
IMHO both of these commentaries are excellent and deserve time.
I also heartily recommend the "hidden" commentary track on Vince Periera's " A Better Place". Very funny.
The Best Comm i listen to is Spinal Tap SE where the actors are doing the comm as there characters
Also like the Goonies track, Corey Feldman did shut up and look like sean astin did want to be there and left half way though
TombRaider with Simon West i found intresting, you could tell he reading in a certain bit
Michael Mackenzie
15-11-2001, 18:20
Originally posted by Sonick
TombRaider with Simon West i found intresting, you could tell he reading in a certain bit Listen to the Chris Columbus one on Mrs. Doubtfire -- he's reading the WHOLE thing!
Hollow Man - I finally got round to listening to my first Paul Verhoven track. This is actually above par with an informative an insightful look at the production, effects and story of the 'invisible man' fable. There's three people gassing away so there is very rarely any pauses and they all sound like they got on really well.
Worth listening to.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - This was another film i've been putting off the comm. But having heard it i don't know why i did. Both Ang Lee and the other guy (soz, he's name escapes me) converse well and they seem quite honest about their views on the film. Another comm worth listening to.
Originally posted by robby
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - This was another film i've been putting off the comm. But having heard it i don't know why i did. Both Ang Lee and the other guy (soz, he's name escapes me) converse well and they seem quite honest about their views on the film. Another comm worth listening to. [/B]Spooky!! I'm listening to this right now!!
All of Joss Whedon's commentaries on Buffy are superb. Insightful and very funny, you can tell where the quirky humour from the show comes from.
But look out for other Buffy commentaries by the likes of Marti Noxon, who just talk you through each scene like you're an idiot while brown-nosing anyone involved in the production. Rubbish.
StuBruise
22-11-2001, 09:59
Originally posted by kingmob
"I'm sure I read somewhere about a commentary where one of the participants angrily storms out part-way through; did I imagine this or does it really exist?"
-----
this could be the first Dogma SE commentary (the one with absolutely everybody) where producer Scott Mosier supposedly left in disgust when the commentary degenerated into what people would be watching on TV that night.
Hence the inclusion of a more technical commentary with Smith, Mosier and Periera alone.
IMHO both of these commentaries are excellent and deserve time.
I'm pretty sure this isn't the one I was thinking of (I think it was released well before Dogma) but thanks anyway -- Dogma was already on my Christmas list but now I know what I'll be watching first thing on Boxing Day :D
~~stu
I just got the 'empiors new groove' I have to say it's one of the most driest commentory i have ever heard. It's imformative, but soooo boring. It's the same with Dinosuor, are all Diseny commenties this bad?
Originally posted by Roberto
I just got the 'empiors new groove' I have to say it's one of the most driest commentory i have ever heard. It's imformative, but soooo boring. It's the same with Dinosuor, are all Diseny commenties this bad?
That's interesting Roberto, i have this disc which i borrowed from a freind. I was going to listen to it before i give it back on Fri but i think i'll give it a miss. TBH the only Disnay comm i've like so far were the Toy Story ones, but i think al lot of that is down to the fact John Laseter and co are a fun bunch to be around. They certainly livened up the Big Breakfast the other day.
Thanks for the heads up:), see this thread works:D :D
richie99
22-11-2001, 14:23
I've just got round to the Fight Club comm (!) and was very impressed. Shame there's not more this good.
Another fave is The Rock (Criterion) - you get to hear how much Nic Cage actually puts into his role.
Got bored of the Shrek comm. after about half an hour....
allerseelen
22-11-2001, 21:37
Check out the "The Hidden" a 80's Sci-Fi movie with Kyle MacLachlan and a black Ferrari. The director makes some fairly candid comments on the poor quality of the extras and how some of the actors play the same character differently. He also reveals that Claudia Christians boobs are fake in the stripper scene :(
However her butt in the next scene is all real :)
Also the Elite Re-Animator cast+crew commentary is good for a few laughs.
Fever Dawg
22-11-2001, 22:52
Can't believe that nobody has mentioned Bruce Campbell/Sam Raimi on Evil Dead 2 and AOD ! Legendary !
I was crying laughing at BC's "Say hello to Papa" as he cut's his girlfriends head off, with a spade, in Evil Dead 2. Both commentaries are awesome.
Ridley Scott is a great 'commentator' too.
Originally posted by Robby
That's interesting Roberto, i have this disc which i borrowed from a freind. I was going to listen to it before i give it back on Fri but i think i'll give it a miss. TBH the only Disnay comm i've like so far were the Toy Story ones, but i think al lot of that is down to the fact John Laseter and co are a fun bunch to be around. They certainly livened up the Big Breakfast the other day.
Thanks for the heads up:), see this thread works:D :D The Toy Story commentaries would be independent of Diseny because they made by Pixer. It's not that the emperor new groove has a bad commentary, it's very informative but just very boring. It's all about delivery, you can make commentaries informative and good to listen to, look at the animation team of Dreamworks, Antz, Shrek, Prince of Egypt, Road to Eldordo. All interesting to the end! Disney, next time give your animation team a personality transplant!
Your right Roberto it's Pixar not Disney, come to think of it i don't think i have listened to an animated Disney track. I've got Bedazzled for a week and don't know whether to try those comm's out. There is a Director comm and another with Liz and someone else, i forget who at the mo.
Anyone heard these?? any good?
This is Spinal Tap has a great commentary as the actors commentate in the roles of the characters so continuing the spoof documenatry!
Mr Flibble
27-11-2001, 11:58
The first commentary I listened to was the Ghostbusters one - and I'll listen to it again I'm sure.
The one for American Pie and Alien are also worth a go, but I have to disagree about the one on Blair Witch, I just found it really dull - sorry!
Calathea
27-11-2001, 22:48
Apollo 13 by Jim Lovell and his wife, great to listen to his own memories of the event as he watches the film
Chicken Run was quite good
Ghostbusters
Anymore for anymore???
I've only had time to listen to the short Comms on the free BMW DVD 'The Hire' All four are pretty informative. I think Ang Lee's is the less entertaining as he doesn't really say much. But well worth as listen as they're only 5 - 10 mins each.
Anyway i plan on listening to The Fast and The Furious, Moulin Rouge and Almost Famous Bootleg in the next few days so i'll keep you all posted.
Michael Mackenzie
10-01-2002, 14:42
A particularly good commentary I enjoyed recently is the actors' commentary on Final Destination (Region 1 only if I remember rightly). It has Devon Sawa, Kerr Smith, Kristin Cloke and Chad E. Donella in it, and although it's a little slow to start, it is one of the most amusing ones I have heard to date.
Mr Furious
10-01-2002, 16:34
I thoroughly enjoyed John Cleese's contribution on the Life of Brian Criterion DVD.
I'm not sure whether the same commentary appears on the new R2 release! :(
zeroCool
10-01-2002, 17:15
Bad Ones:
Jamie Foxx on Bait - he basically explains whats' happening onscreen for the whole movie
Mel Gibson on Braveheart - lot's of gaps (toilet breaks?) very little insight
The one on the Heathers Laserdisc was an absolute classic - not sure if it is the same one on the DVD but if it is - definately worth checking out (Writer/Director/Producer - not sure of there names at the moment)
Moulin Rouge
Firstly if you loved this movie as much as i did then i think you'll really appreciate what these guys and gal have to say. Both commentaries are interesting with very little pause.
Commentary 1: This one concentrates mainly on the process of making the movie, how sets were accomplished, obstacles they overcame, general design and CGi work, what the actors brought to there roles etc. Baz also indicates the importance of keeping the comic/tragedy stroyline so closely knitted. A good all round overview of the production of Moulin Rouge
Commentary 2: This one is my favourite of the two. Baz and Craig Pearce are very animated in their discussions, they cover practically everything relating to the story of Moulin Rouge, for example the device of using popular songs to portray Christian as the greatest poet in the world and how it's important to compress story through montage. They also explain the different opening they were going to use which is very interesting. You get the feeling these guys really do know each other very well which goes some way in keeping this Comm from becoming boring. They also keep hinting that you should go out and check out their work in the early script drafts. (Which i haven't done, i think text based extras are the only thing i don't look at as it can be really hard on the ol' eyes). Crikey, you wouldn't think is was 22 would you!!?:nuts:
I've seen a lot of comments regarding MR from people who really dislike the comic elements to the film. In both Comms Baz illustrates these parts are vital in keeping the tragic elements to the story so profound. It's interesting what he has to say about it.
The second Comm also addressed an issue i had with the character Le Chocolat. I could understand his role as another saviour to Satine (always there to save her when Christian wasn't) but it always bugged me why he did it. Something i never picked up on when watching the film is the importance of the secondary characters. Lautrec, Le Chocolat etc, were always wanting what the main characters had.
Anyway, two great Comms. Next ones will probably be Rush Hour 2 and Almost Famous.
Keep the others coming they're all useful.
Robby
I've been very bored lately so i have a couple more i've listened too sooner than expected.
Rush Hour 2 - This one is very much the same format as the original film except that the writer is now also involved. So you can expect the usual ' we tried to get to the action sequences ASAP' sort of banter. It's worthy of a listen if only to hear Brett Ratner discuss how out of his head Jackie Chan was on the boat fighting sequence.
If only they could get Chan & Tucker to do a commentary. Still it's always informative and not boring.
The Fast And The Furious - Rob Cohen is very interesting in this Comm. He ranges from the editing process, to story, character, actor, composition, lighting troubles and hints at his forthcoming Vin Diesel flick XXX. He also let's in that a couple of unanswered questions from this film will be answered in the sequel. So it looks like that could def be a possibility. Again, if you liked this movie (i know a lot of you didn't) you will get a lot of info and enjoyment from this track. Always informative, he comes across as a big kid really.
arias90210
19-01-2002, 18:08
My faves are:
1) 'Kentucky Fried Movie (R1 only) - easily the funniest track i've ever heard, it features the ZAZ boys (Zucker, Abrahams, Zucker) of 'Airplane' and 'Naked Gun' fame, and John Landis.
Not heavy on technical detail, but the anecdotes come thick and fast, the track is basically a reunion and they don't exactly take their handiwork seriously. True classic.
2) 'Alien' - As mentioned Scott, is pretty good at this commentary business, and for me this is his best work....intelligent, insightful and well paced.
3) 'Trinity & Beyond' - Strange choice by most standards i guess, but this track by producer/director Peter Kuran (if you've heard of the name it's because his day job is as a top FX man), is one of the best around. It adds imeasurably to the brilliant documentary, providing detailed background to whats appearing on the screen, as well as his journey to bring the film to fruition.
4) 'Godfather' Trilogy - Just about the best i could have hoped for
in a comm track from this once truely great film maker. He talks honestly and quite openly about the making of all 3 movies and given how long each flick is there is very little in the way of overlap.....the only thing missing, for me atleast was a grovelling apology for the abomination that was his daughters performance in part 3......but hey!, you can't have everything;)
5) Anything by Oliver Stone......o.k so this a bit of cheat, but pound-for-pound, Stone is the best in Hollywood at this talking 'thing'. His tracks are always intelligent, detailed and more-often-than-not controversial. Its guarenteed you'll never be bored.
Little gems you may have missed
'Cleopatra' - Great anecdotes and given most of the participents are now dead, dishes some dirt as well....nice
'The Great Train Robbery' - Michael 'Jurassic Park' Crichton, takes a slightly dry but very interesting journey throught his heist movie. Including how he broke the law and had to stay on the good side of the IRA.
'Cube' - A witty and intelligent look at the making of this indie classic. (Together with 'Pi', these are almost a master-class in low budget filmmaking).
'Almost Famous' - O.K, this has only recently come out....but this is a fantastic track....pure nostalgia.
The Truely Sucktacular
Tim Burton on everything he does, he may be talented, but god is he DULL!!!!
The Farrelly Bros. on 'Me Myself and Irene'....the movie wasn't the only thing that blew on this dvd
'Braveheart'.....you'll need one to wade through this track
'Exorcist TVYNSB', or whatever its called....oh joy!, a track where the director spends all his time describing what's happening on the screen.
'The House Of Mirth' - Wonderful film.....easily on of the most boring tracks everrrrr:p
rezabelady
19-01-2002, 20:34
Tim Burton's commentary on Planet of the Apes isn't too bad - at least certainly not compared to the only other one of his that i have listened to (Edward Scissorhands - i fell asleep with that one!!)
Some absolutely superb commentaries:
John Carpenter on Assault on Precinct 13 provides nary a dull moment, and superbly informative throughout.
Paul Morrissey, Udo Kier and Maurice Yacowar all provide terrific commentaries on Criterion's DVDs of Blood for Dracula and Flesh for Frankenstein.
Stanley Donen & Peter Stone provide a showstopper seemingly non-stop argument for Criterion's Charade (recently made OOP)
Roger Ebert on Citizen Kane is a sheer blitz of information and insights.
Bruce Eder's Criterion commentaries (The Most Dangerous Game, The Blob, etc.) are generally superb, accurate and his refreshed, eager tone really makes you pay attention.
I must be the only one who enjoyed Brendan Fraser's track on The Mummy. It wasn't your standard, info packed track, but it was like he was sitting in the room with you, watching the movie & commenting like a mate.
Other ones I liked;
Most John Carpenter tracks - but only if he's with some one else! (Ghosts of Mars is more entertaining than the movie!)
Samuel L Jackson's bits of both Sphere and Deep Blue Sea were great.
Zero Effect is good. It even contains a little competition.
Anything involving Bruce Campbell is usually worth a listen. Just finished his track on the first Evil Dead. Superb!
Any of the Kevin Smith ones are good, although I thought Clerks was a bit of a mess. Probably because there were so many people there and they only had one mic.
All the Die Hard ones are worth a listen. I thought the third one was most interesting because of all the changes the script went through.
The Fast & the Furious is quite embarassing to listen to. The director keeps using 'hip' terms, like 'rice-rockets' and 'dope-ass', and leching over the female members of the cast. Mind you, I thought the film was pretty bad too.
Michael Mackenzie
22-01-2002, 13:52
The commentary on Omen II with producer Harvey Bernhard is really horrible. He is incredibly boring and has nothing of merit to say. Better yet, they got the guy who produced the DVD to prompt him half the time, asking inane questions like "You got a story credit on this movie. Did you write it?" Dire stuff.
On a side note, the Omen commentary with Richard Donner and Stuart Baird is far better, and is genuinely interesting, and FUNNY.
My favourite has to be Bruce Campbell's comm. from Evil Dead 2.
One of the funniest (unintentionally) has to be McG's comm. to Charlies Angels
"I love Cameron in this scene"
"Look at Cameron, isn't she wonderful. So physical. She trained so hard for this movie etc"
"Cameron is so talented. Look at her there, she's like a Gazelle"
"The Camera adores her (Cameron) She's just so natural. She radiates charm etc."
Runner-up prize goes to Mena Suvari's contribution to AP 2 :
"Hi. I'm Mena Suvari, Hee-hee-hee-hee-hee!"
Nooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
Mr Perfect
27-01-2002, 13:45
ooer there's gravy on my spacebar. Anyway from some of the ones that I have listened to from my "massive" collection.
Bride of Chucky - The one with the actors and the writer is really funny, but I've only managed five minutes with the directors comm. before turning it off.
Valentine - duff film with matching comm.
The Rage: Carrie 2 - better than expected, and slightly more honest than the usual "she was so great, he has the best big toe in film today etc..."
Scream 2 & Scream 3 - Although I like the films, the comm. on each the participants seem to think that these are faultless.
Killer Klowns From Outer Space Love the film but the comm. although mildly amusing was a little dry.
I've listened to others but that gravy is bugging me now :)
Se7en :Story Commentary; This is a very fascinating Comm that goes some way into detailing how this genre differed from most cop thrillers and in particular how the ending came about and at one point wasn't even considered by studio bosses as making the final film. TBH i found the 'host' Richard Dyer author of the BFI modern classics to be irratating and a little dull although he does provided a lot of background on thrillers and why he thinks this film differed from the usual fare and is regarded as a 'modern classic'. For me Fincher and writer Andrew Kevin Walker were the most interesting, obviously these guys know the film like the back of their hands and they describe all the elements they had getting away with what was written and how they went about pushing the conventions of traditional cop thrillers. Walker dominates most of the track and it's been a long time that i've listened to a Comm with such interest as what was being said came off almost like a documentary.
Highly informative, easy to listen too and very entertaining.
Almost Famous Bootleg Finally got round to listening to this one and if you love the film it's a must listen too. A lot of reviews i've seen of commentaries compare them to having your favourite film/star sitting with you telling you the ins and outs, no more so is this true than with AF. Dominated by Crowe this comm comes across as a trip down memory lane with a nice touch of including Camerons Mother who takes it all in her stride and comes off as a very nice and intellectual woman. She backs up all the stories that Crowe reminisces over which goes some way into believing this film is semi-autobiographical. At times both touching, Crowe finishes with a touching tribute, and is also frequently funny thoughout, notably Crowe getting a bit irate over an extra in the graduation scene. There's little of the 'oh he/she is just fabulous' but not really enough to make you go 'give it a rest for crying out loud'. Crowe also makes numerous mentions of Vanilla Sky throughout the Comm which is insightful and rather clever, as i want to see it even more now.
Great Comm just sit back and let it wash. Very entertaining and well worth a listen.
Originally posted by Whiggles
On a side note, the Omen commentary with Richard Donner and Stuart Baird is far better, and is genuinely interesting, and FUNNY. Hear, Hear!
Just listened to this t'other day and I'm after the <I>Superman</I> DVD now - just for the commentary! :p
I just watched the first four comms on the Futurama boxset and it much better than the simpsons ones
John Di Maggio(bender) is v funny in the comm:clap:
I just watched the first four comms on the Futurama boxset and it much better than the simpsons ones
John Di Maggio(bender) is v funny in the comm
Totally agree I was in stitches every time he laughed! Sounded just like Bender. The commentaries on Futurama are great, it's like watching with the people on the commentary in the room, the pauses don't annoy me as much I thought they would it's just them getting caught up watching the episodes. Great.
Bump as i didn't want it to get lost in the next cut off. (whenever that is)
So anyone listened to any more comms??. I must admit i've not done for quite a while, partly because i haven't bought much. I have listened to the pilot comm on Buffy. Which is enlightening in certain aspects (how they set up characters, plot devices, the budget constraints and Alison Hannigan SP? recommended the band,Nerf Herder who did the opening title music) but being a bit of a Buffy Virgin Joss Whedon gave a lot of future spoilers away. So i wasn't too impressed with that.
But the two on the 1st season disc are good for the 45 minutes running time. Always informative i found. :D
Joe Pasquale
10-03-2002, 21:19
Originally posted by Sonick
Also like the Goonies track, Corey Feldman did shut up and look like sean astin did want to be there and left half way though
Yeah, found that really odd. I'd imagine the other peeps think he's a bit of a tosser now... I mean he's undoubtedly the only one whose in the big movies now, but c'mon. Too busy? Aw, diddums.
One I rarely see mentioned is Fast Times at Ridgemont High I think it's the only one I've ever seen where they talk for a good few minutes even after the credits have finished, even Heckerling and Crowe nattering with a black screen is entertaining. They do talk about Nic Cage quite a lot though, which is odd considering his screen time is about 2 whole seconds. Do definately reccomend it though.
Stand by Me with Reiner at the mic is quite good also, though not too exciting, it is very interesting.
One I've thought of sitting through sometime is the 6+ hours on The Stand, anyone heard it?
The Beyond - (Catriona MacColl and David Warbeck) - This is a good commentary. The commentary is very 'chatty', them going on about how they made The Beyond, their experiences with Lucio Fulci, etc. Check the spider sequence for a good bit. :)
Evil Dead - (Bruce Campbell) - I don't like Evil Dead much, but this commentary is excellent. Full of information about the film.
Michael Mackenzie
11-03-2002, 08:12
The commentary on North by Northwest by screenwriter Ernest Lehman is pretty good, although there are a LOT of pauses, and he spends quite a bit of time just managing to remember what's meant to be happening in the scene. When he does have something interesting to say though, it's very interesting.
Rollo Tomassi
12-03-2002, 13:09
I really liked the commentary on the Fallen DVD with Greg Hoblit, Nicholas Kazan and Charles Roven. Very informative, with lots of ancedotes and stories about the production. They had to re-shoot the audio on one of the scenes because someone left the master (and only) copy on a train! Also, the way the 'demon vision' was filmed was interesting too. I always like it when the writer is included in the commentary.
I've listened to Soderburgh's commentaries on Out of Sight and The Limey and can recommend these too. Quite a bit of friction between him and the respective screenwriters!
My faves have all been mentioned with the exception of the Graham Linehan one on the first Father Ted disc. It is absolutely superb.
I haven't had a chance to listen to the series 2 ones yet but would be surprised if they aren't just as good.
BlueDwarf
13-03-2002, 00:47
Just listened to commentary 1 of Donnie Darko, with Richard Kelly (director) and Jake Gyllenhaal (Donnie).
Good mix of stuff about the technical aspects of filming, actors' "motivation" and other anecdotes about the process as a whole.
Very entertaining and interesting - pointed out stuff I missed on the first viewing, and the attention to detail paid to continuity, etc.
And the film itself is a cracker - buy it now!!
"My teeth are itching!!"
[HB]RugRat
17-03-2002, 23:42
Recently watched/listened to dir. commentary on Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back after enjoying previous commentaries as much as the film itself (Dogma, Mallrats etc) - found it quite disappointing actually.
Only Smith, Mewes and Mosier commentate (as opposed to the 5 or 6 on previous commentaries) and it raised barely a chuckle throughout.
Another thumbs up for "The Beyond" - very funny and quite sad, David warbeck dieda few weeks later....
One to check out is the director/cast commentary on "The Crimson Rivers" (subtitiled unless you speak French). Three Frenchman (Mathieu Kassowitz, Jean Reno & Vincent Cassell) speaking nine to the dozen with anecdotes and sly digs at one another. One of the best I've heard/seen in a very long time. Up there with "Blair Witch" for an entertaining insight into the film-making process.
Chorlton
20-03-2002, 15:17
Triumphs
The Thing - Carpenter and Russell - Class
Independence Day and Godzilla - You've gotta love those technical/SPFX commentaries!!!!
12 Monkeys (Collectors Edition) - Between the 90 minute doc and the commentary, I don't think there is a lot else you could ever know about this movie.
Tragedies
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - Could James Schamus be any ruder to Ang Lee?
Mystery Men - I loved the film but fell asleep during the commentary.
Antz - IMHO, PAntz.
Ta Ra,
Chorlton
GrossePointeJack
21-03-2002, 17:26
Just listened to the 'SAY ANYTHING...' track with John Cusack, Cameron Crowe and Ione Skye and it was excellent - they also talk for 20 minutes BEFORE the movie even starts just to set up some of the things like how they got the jobs etc before they kick into the film.
It always makes me laugh though but Cameron Crowe always gets foul mouthed when he seems to get excited on the track - while the other 2 are quite reserved - does Crowe do this on the other tracks he's done?
Cant wait for the Jerry Maguire one now - with all the cast including Tom Cruise which should be good.
Just listened to the Steven Soderbergh and Ted Griffin track.
I have to say not brilliant but at least they seem to get on, always joking around. To begin with it seems like Steven really isn't into it and doesn't want to participate but he does get into the flow of it by the end and is always informative.
I think you'll get a lot out of it if you're interested in story structure. They comment on how they left scenes in and contemplated trimming others. Very good in that respect, Soderbergh cites Griffiths as an influence, setting up questions and answering them with transitions. That i found quite interesting especially as you can see the effect right there on screen.
Will try out the Pitt, Garcia and Damon one in the next few weeks.
Watched Jerry Maguire SE Video Comm with Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr, Renne Zewelleger and Cameron Crowe
Very Enjoyable
The Best Bit is where Tom Cruise is Nailing Kelly Preston - Renee gets all Shy and Embarrassed
Cuba Talking about what he is most Famous For "Show Me The money"
Holy Grail - listened to Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam track, very interesting and funny, possibly recorded seperately. Next the other members.
Best in Show - Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy. Very good not - that funny, but very interesting how an improvised film is made. They also commentate on the 30 mins of deleted scenes.
This is Spinal Tap - goes without saying, this is one of the best commentaries I have heard.
Superman - The Movie is also good.
jamesdeanbradfield
23-05-2002, 12:27
Both Spaced DVDs - just as funny as the programme itself but in a totally different way, lots of mutual insults flying and clearly a lot of alcohol having been drunk... yet also containing plenty of useful info about the programme and how it was made. Just like commentaries should be! :)
StuBruise
23-05-2002, 12:50
Originally posted by jamesdeanbradfield
Both Spaced DVDs - just as funny as the programme itself but in a totally different way, lots of mutual insults flying and clearly a lot of alcohol having been drunk... yet also containing plenty of useful info about the programme and how it was made. Just like commentaries should be! :)
On the other hand, the commentaries for Black Books are funny but not particularly informative; if only they'd got Graham Linehan in to impart some factual knowledge :/
Have to give a big thumbs-up to the Pixar commentaries; amusing and interesting, if perhaps a little back-slappy at times. Can't wait for Monsters Inc :D
~~stu
I have also enjoyed many that have been mentioned, but some that haven't ....
All three commentaries are informative and insightful on the R1 "Beyond The Mat" DVD. Definitely worth forking out extra when comparing it to the Region 2.
The Director and actor who played Johnny Rotten do a very entertaining commentary on "Sid & Nancy", where they compare the film to the actual events depicted.
This is an excellent topic btw. :)
Originally posted by Dopper
This is an excellent topic btw. :)
Thankenya kind Sir and for the bump too. :D
I've actually got 3 whole films to catch up on before i listen to any other comms (that's sooo unlike me).
Memento and From Hell being two of them. I'm quite intrigued by the four different endings for the Memento Comm, anyone listened to them???
At The Gates
21-06-2002, 09:34
Bey Logan gets my vote. The guy is a veritable oracle of information. The only bad thing is if you have load of HKL discs then he can go over the same things in different films (history of Wong Fei Hung for example) but thats not really his fault.
I still have to listen the commentary track on Encounters Of The Spooky Kind.
Tiffany Bradford
25-06-2002, 06:59
This is Spinal Tap - As far as I'm concerned, it's the best.
Snatch - I loved the rapport between Guy Ritchie and Matt Vaughn.
Any commentary with Ridley Scott (it's a shame his brother doesn't have the same running dialogue and articulation on the Spy Game commentary).
Se7en and Fightclub - Fincher to me is fascinating to listen to. He sounds so much like Spacey doing John Doe in Se7en that I was mesmerized. The combination of Fincher/Pitt commentaries is winning, with or without the co-stars.
Dark City - If you didn't consider it the best film of 1998, you will after Roger Ebert persuades you with his full length commentary/oral love letter.
gavinhanly
25-06-2002, 15:31
The commentary on the original Criterion Silence of the Lambs was excellent - and probably my favourite. Shame it'll fade into history now. The parts where the FBI guy is talking are often scarier than the film itself!
On a similar note, the Jodie Foster commentary on Contact is very good indeed.
The Cider House Rules with John Irving and Lasse Hallstrom is a must for any fan of John Irving.
I also liked the Phantom Menace - although I felt it could have done with some input from the actors too. Perhaps AOTC will re-address this...
Rypro525
27-06-2002, 01:10
my brother is saying that he likes the pota commentary cause he basicly spends half the time complainging bout doing se's and deleted scenes and complaining about us with our forums and saying that we are too obsessive.
do his other commentaries say the same thing.
my all time favorite is airplane and citizen kane ebert.
Anybody got any other recomendations?
Is Monsters Inc worth a listen?, Blade 2? The Rock SE, Traffic CC
These are all a few i have and have considered.
Finding time a bit short at the mo, still interested in what others think of recent Comms though.
Peter Cowie's commentary on Tokyo Olympiad is truly oustanding and very entertaining.
Both of Blade2 commentary tracks are pretty good.
Listened to both the commentaries on friday during a loooong bus journey.
Both excellent.
The Katy Haber one in particular.
Here's a snippet! :) 400kb Mp3 (http://www.cityonfire.com/gZa/SDKH.mp3)
Originally posted by Garry Cowell
Listened to both the commentaries on friday during a loooong bus journey.
Both excellent.
The Katy Haber one in particular.
Here's a snippet! :) 400kb Mp3 (http://www.cityonfire.com/gZa/SDKH.mp3)
You sod.
I was just going to recommend that!
Superb commentary, superb disc.
The only thing that I think the package needed was English subs. But that complaint is very, very minor.
Superb commentaries, superb extras, superb DVD quality, superb disc.
Originally posted by Narshty
Peter Cowie's commentary on Tokyo Olympiad is truly oustanding and very entertaining.
Narsh picks a Criterion one ! The Shock! The Horror!
Originally posted by Garry Cowell
Listened to both the commentaries on friday during a loooong bus journey.
The amount of times i wanted to do that when i had to travel back and forth from Uni the last three years. :(
I take it you got yourself a dinky little portable player?
Originally posted by Robby
I take it you got yourself a dinky little portable player? Sony Net MiniDisc MZ-N1 :D
Ripped BOTH the commentary tracks to HD (WAV) (approx 20minutes) then dubbed them both to a MD (using LP4) in approx 10mintes. http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif
...and to think I once used to do this realtime via my DVD audio out. :o
What a good idea, i got me a Minidisc too :D
Doesn't it take away some of the impact of it though?, especially if the commentators are talking about something screen specific.
Captain_Chaos
20-10-2002, 16:53
Fawlty Towers series 1 is bad
as far as blade 2 comms go for the director writer one as del torro is hilarious . carpenters are pretty good ie big trouble in little china. the thing.the fog etc . as for chuckles the special ed of basket case is far more entertaining than the film. but the dogs
doodas has got to be chud rg1 dvd just hearing daniel stern , john heard and company taking the **** out of each others
performances and the director and writer running the film down
is just fantastic .
Nicadeemas
21-10-2002, 12:09
The Thing - Awesome comm.
This was the first comm I ever listened to and I thought all comms were this good. You could hear Kurt Russel and John Carpenter lighting up cigarettes and helping themselves to drinks and they both sounded like they were really enjoying themselves. They were laughing and joking and before I knew it, the film was over.
Sadly, not all comms are up to this standard.
Nic
KeyserSoze
22-10-2002, 19:38
havent checked out The Thing yet.
but i have listened to Big Trouble in Little China, and am i the only person who thought ol' Kurt was a tad annoying ? he almost always interrupts Carpenter when hes trying to get something across.
Mr Flibble
24-10-2002, 14:21
I listened to the Actors track on Oceans' 11 recently, quite informative and nice and relaxed - although Brad Pitt isn't actually with the other guest speakers, they just edit the track to make it sound like he was.
The fun they had making this movie comes across in the track, and made me enjoy a great film even more - well worth listening too :)
this is spinal tap aswell for me,some comedy moments on it
"hes dead" or when there slaging of marti "look at his fake beard"
or talkin about the keyboard player... classic!!:D
another fav is
Dark Days for one of the most interesting, shows you the effort he put in into making the film
I did listen to the very short comms on the two shorts from the Monsters Inc DVD,
For the birds was ok i s'pose. Not particularly informative.
Mike's New Car is perhaps the most bizarre as it's narrated by two children of the animators, i think one of them is the girl who played 'Boo'.
Quite a fun track, although steer clear if listening to kids scream with delight and laughter is your idea of an instant migraine. :D
Originally posted by Raphph
Narsh picks a Criterion one ! The Shock! The Horror!
Always a surprise up me sleeve...
My favourite DVD commentary is undoubtably the Fight Club one with Fincher, Pitt and Norton. It would have been even better if Bonham-Carter could have been there with them instead of a seperate recording inserted into the commentary.
I think that Patrice Leconte is one of the best - simply hilarious and highly enthusuastic - shame noone has been bothered to sub any of his commentaries for a UK release :(
Vincent Cassel is up there with the best - although impossible to comprehend if you're not fluent in French - only his commentary on Brotherhood of the Wolf and Crimson Rivers are available subtitled (I think) - shame as the films are crap!
Kassowitz Jeunet and Tavernier are also really good at commenting but none of their commentaries are available subtitled.
Wim Wenders is also quite good although his humour is an acquired taste ...
that's if from the European perspective :D
IHATELIFE
08-11-2002, 00:40
The commentary track on "Once Were Warriors" is good:clap:
Tony Scott's and inparticular Quentin Tarantino's commentaries on <I>True Romance</i>. :thumbs:
A good techinal commentry on the making of films are the one by Martin Campbell and Michael G Wilson on GoldenEye and Martin Campbell on The Mask of Zorro , but touch dry but quite informative , but my all time fav has to be the cast/crew on Chasing Amy I've listened to it about 5 times now always cheers me up when I listen to it and althought I've only listened to about 20mins of it the Carpenter/Piper commentry on They Live seems quite entertaining :)
Not sure if it's my fave (most of them have already been mentioned, e.g. Ridley Scott, Futurama, Starship Troopers) - but Brass Eye has to be worth a mention for most original!
The genuis Morris got a bunch of homeless people off the street, gave 'em a few tins and plonked them in front of an episode of Brass Eye.
"No... it's an analogy"
Brilliant, well almost brilliant, something about it isn't quite right.
As for worst - mm, again, already mentioned I think - The Matrix was very disappointing.
I'm sure there is a fine line between commentaries that grip and entertain you, and ones that quite literally send you to sleep.
Bumping as i've a horrible feeling a server prune is imminent.
davey1970
01-01-2003, 19:39
hes probably been mentioned - but i like Ridley Scott ones, in partic Alien.
also enjoyed Existenz
d
Creamstick
01-01-2003, 23:23
Faves :
Fight Club - Fincher/Pitt/Norton/HBC
Boogie Nights - PTA interviews the cast "Do you think Luis Guzman is on drugs during the movie?"
Any Evil Dead Trilogy
Any Carpenter/Russell
Any John Waters
Pitch Black - Twohy/Diesel/Hauser Seems like a couple of mates having a beer!
Any Bey Logan commentary
Blade 2 - the commentary on the deleted scenes is priceless "Look at that edited!!! Micheal edited Bolton!!!!!"
Any Kevin Smith group commentary - esp. Dogma/Chasing Amy/Dogma
Re-Animator - Cast/Producer commentary is very funny
Haven't listened to many, but the Spaced ones are my favourites. Very funny, informative, and there's near to no gaps in.
Futurama (S1 & S2) David Cohen has the most annoying, nerdy voice ever, yet he's still quite interesteing. John DiMaggio is annoying at first, too, but I got used to him. Billy West's stuff is excellent, though; extremely funny stuff.
Red Dwarf (S1) The cast commentary is quite good, really, although Craig Charles' laugh tends to grate. Chris Barrie is great in it.
Spinal Tap From what I've heard of it, it's superb. Presumably unscripted, they do VERY well as the characters. The 'He's dead' bits are genius.
Worst i've heard:
The Simpsons (S1 & S2) It's just so... tedious.
Phoenix Night is Funny
Peter Kay says If you watch this alone, it be like having us watching it with you in you house get some Mannequin's to sit next to you
then he says
"there is someone sneaking around you house!"
"i'm not joking":nuts:
The Italian job is pretty bad.
The director only manages one word answers and the other guy is some tedious geek who wrote the "making of" book.
A good bit:
Tedious geek> So he used an orange bulldozer to bring the colour scheme of the titles into a thread running through the film.
Director> I think it only came in that colour.
Martin
ps. Is the new Withnail and I (anchor bay) commentary any good, I have the old no extras disc.
beobrand
03-01-2003, 16:00
I listened to the Anchor Bay Highlander director and producers comm over Christmas and it was very interesting and amusing. A pleasant surprise that they could remember so much about a film made 15 years previously!
I must agree with the negative comments about the Braveheart commentary...started well and quickly got very repetitious and uneventful...I never finished it!
Spinal tap is great as everyone seems to agree.
The Patriot is SOOOOOO boring it is ubelievable!
The Thirteenth Floor commentary by Josef Rusnak is fascinating and really makes you appreciate the film.
Chorlton
17-01-2003, 12:58
ps. Is the new Withnail and I (anchor bay) commentary any good, I have the old no extras disc.
I listened to this and found it extremely dull. There were some anecdotes but they kept repeating themselves and describing the action on the screen. I think it would have been better with Bruce Robinson. A wasted opportunity.
I haven't listened to a commentary for a while which has rated well. Must be my choice in movies :p
Ta Ra,
Chorlton
GoodVibrations
19-01-2003, 18:05
"Das Boot"
"Citizen Kane" (Both Ebert's and Bogdanovich's)
"Seven Samurai" (Criterion)
"Brazil" (Criterion, both)
are very good.
The worst I've listened to is "The X-files Movie". More boring than the movie itself (unbelieveable but true).
I prefer actors' commentaries as they seem to strike a more laidback balance between interesting behind the scenes info. and having a laugh with the film.
Some winners:
Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis and writer Callie Khouri on the Special Edition of Thelma And Louise.
Richard O'Brien & Patricia Quinn on The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
I'm digging this one up...
There is an excellent one with Peter Mullan on The Magdalene Sisters...
andrewcalderuk
12-09-2003, 12:03
Bound is pretty good.
delbosque
12-09-2003, 12:06
Steven Soderberg's commentary track on the Criterion release of Traffic is very good, quite frank about some of the dodgy narrative choices he and his writer had to make. It's much better than the bland Solaris track he did with James "Blue" Cameron.
Michael Cimino's "interview-commentary" on the new Deer Hunter release is excellent, funny, exasperating and very moving.
And I wish Fincher had included a commentary on his superb Panic Room.
Originally posted by delbosque And I wish Fincher had included a commentary on his superb Panic Room.
We can but hope for the S.E.
Originally posted by delbosque
Steven Soderberg's commentary track on the Criterion release of Traffic is very good, quite frank about some of the dodgy narrative choices he and his writer had to make. It's much better than the bland Solaris track he did with James "Blue" Cameron.
I quite liked the Solaris one, i keep meaning to listen to the Traffic version but each time i get round to it i watch the film instead. :|
I think the running time puts me off somewhat. I love a good comm track but for films like, Godfather, LOTR, Once Upon a Time in America etc i don't think i could watch them for the duration.
Ed Parsons
12-09-2003, 14:09
Phoenix Nights
The Wolf Man
Charade (Criterion)
All top rate commentary tracks.
Michael Moore's commentary on Roger&Me is superb - very insightful and fascinating!
kaine106
13-09-2003, 16:18
All Futurama commentaries are great!
Jelly I agree, Cohen is the ultimate nerd sound but Billy West is fantastic, I love it when he talks in a characters voice!:lol:
I like the commentaries on Alan Partridge too. Funny stuff.
andrewcalderuk
13-09-2003, 18:05
Have I Got News For You is worth listening to.
:lol: :lol: :lol:
Citysmith
15-09-2003, 13:07
For me the one disc (that should be 2) is the 4 Lord of the Rings commentaries. I tend to bang 'em on turn off the TV and just drift off to sleep. Not because it's boring :thumbs: but because I just find it so relaxing. Esp the one with Peter Jackson doing most of the talking. :dork:
It does get on the GFs nerves sometimes, but she learning to live with it :thumbs:
Just watched Jean-Pierre Jeunet's commentary on Delicatessen. Thumbs up, here. Very interesting and often funny - I like the way he keeps mentioning 'The Americans'.
Mmm, I want The City Of... now.
delbosque
16-09-2003, 23:28
Probably the best - as has already been suggested - are the LOTR 4 (?) and especially the actors' track which is exceptional. Scott Hicks deserves a mention because two of his movies (Snow Falling on Cedars & Hearts in Atlantis) will probably be forgotten, but his commentaries add immeasurably to these films.
The funniest is Alex Cox's on the region 2 Sid and Nancy disc. Very off-message as well.
Futurama series 4 commentary
John Di Maggio is not as good in this series
He has been surpassed by Maurice Lamarche:lol:
Also the LXG commentary with Jason Flemying and Tony Curran when they talk about meeting Sean Connery:lol: :clap:
mikegray
24-12-2003, 13:05
Votes for Scream, any Kevin Smith film, the Keira Knightley commentary on Pirates Of The Carribbean and the trading insults of the commentary on Miss Congeniality.
Aardvark_DK
27-12-2003, 10:01
Aronofsky's commentary on Requiem for a Dream is incredible. Very informative and always interesting. And the one he did on Pi is almost as good.
Terry Gilliam's commentary on 12 Monkeys is also very, very good. And don't miss the documentary "The Hamster Factor and Other Tales of 12 Monkeys" (or whatever it's called).
Matt5678
31-12-2003, 22:26
Originally posted by Whiggles
Without a doubt the worst two commentaries I have ever heard are the Brendan Frazer one on [b]The Mummy Ultimate Edition and the one on The Matrix. Truly dire stuff with very little content.
There's commentary on the Matrix?
jamie_rowe
01-01-2004, 00:36
The Sum of All Fears Great opportunity to see how much crap Tom Clancy can give Phil Alden Robinson without the latter going off it
Ghostbusters and Men in Black video commentaries are both superb and I would like to see more like them
Worst:
Mission: Impossible II Huge chunks of silence from the Woo-meister
Tomb Raider God-awful - Simon West seems less interested in the film than any of its disappointed audience
Originally posted by Matt5678
There's commentary on the Matrix?
R1 only (Maybe R4). Not much cop though.
If you ever buy the Fawlty Towers DVD, don't waste your time listenining to the commentaries. The bloke barely speaks and even when he does you can hardly hear him seen as they kept the show's sound to loud. Awful. :gag:
jordanash
01-01-2004, 23:54
An exceptionally poor commentary track is the Desser effort for the Criterion "Tokyo Story" which is also not a commentary at all but a reading from a script, read in a very unprofessional half-hearted fashion. This should be held up as the very way NOT to do a commentary track: Desser might have a lot of interesting things to say about a sublime movie but not many people will stay the course to find out. The commentary track for John Ford's "My Darling Clementine" seems to be similarly afflicted. Great movie, though :)
Originally posted by Robby
Originally posted by Matt5678
There's commentary on the Matrix? R1 only (Maybe R4). Not much cop though. I think (and this may be mere conjecture by whomever told me) that because a headbutt was cut out of the R2 release, the commentary timing was off and so they removed it rather than edit a few seconds.
I'd love to hear the official word on this as it sounds like a very lazy reason to have ditched the commentary (I find it hard to believe that a few seconds of silence couldn't be found near the affected area; I've also heard commentary tracks wherein the participants appear to be commenting on footage that's a few seconds in advance of what's being shown on the DVD, so sync issues don't seem to be a problem for most studios). Anybody know for sure? Now I've typed it out it sounds ridiculous...
That was my understanding too smst. Think i read it in DVD Review a few years back.
Peter Griffin
06-01-2004, 08:09
The cast commentary on LOTR TTT is excellent as was the one for FOTR. When they talk about Helms Deep it sounds like there was some serious hard work and tough going to get that scene in.
Also I do find Merry and Pippin to be quite funny at times when they are talking (not sure of their real names) so they lighten the mood a little bit.
Im still to listen to the PJ one yet so I look forward to that. :thumbs:
PS: Futurama series 4 commentaries are great stuff. Pity about the lack of John DiMaggio but Billy West you are a GOD! :notworthy
And can I say that although David X Cohen has the nerdiest voice ever he is the best thing on the commentaries, he knows everything about everything and is really funny. Luckily we get him for every episode ever so well done to them too. :thumbs:
I don't often have time to listen to commentaries; but have realised I can work and listen to DVDs in the office, so I'll be doing more of that from now on!
Total Recall SE R1 is pretty boring - Arnie has very little of any substance to say and often gets things wrong. Both him and Verhoeven spend far too long just describing what's happening, it's more like a soundtrack for the blind than a commentary.
Escape from New York SE R1 was much better, Kurt and John really come across as a couple of mates having a laugh and while very little of any substance seems to be talked about it is at least entertaining listening to them both. Nice mix of technical detail and anecdotes. Kurt laughing at everything can get a bit wearing.
Rollocop
13-01-2004, 15:08
Ive only listened to one full commentary, for Bravehear and I wish I hadnt bothered. I was interested to see if he continued his supposed rant belittling Scotland and the Scots for how much they got into the movie (Although I do agree with that to some extent).
He hardly spoke and it was pretty dull. General tone was "its raining here...... it was raining a lot"
Originally posted by Rollocop
Ive only listened to one full commentary, for Bravehear and I wish I hadnt bothered. I was interested to see if he continued his supposed rant belittling Scotland and the Scots for how much they got into the movie (Although I do agree with that to some extent).
He hardly spoke and it was pretty dull. General tone was "its raining here...... it was raining a lot"
That is a bad first impression for a commentary because that is one of the worst ones out there.
andrewcalderuk
14-01-2004, 15:19
Another vote for The Limey - must've listened to it 3 or 4 times :dork: .
Also the Steve Zahn section of the commentary on Roadkill/Joyride is very funny (it's about 10/15mins in).
:)
Two more...
R2 Air Force One - the interview style is a bit annoying but it does help keep Wolfgang on track, he seems to trail off into silence on his own. Lots of comments about which bits are models/real aircraft/shot one way and shown another etc. which are of little interest. A few amusing mentions of one of the Russian actors trying to be a young Marlon Brando and mentions of bits cut out for the final release but all in all pretty missable.
R1 The Thing - Kurt & John again and much the same as with Escape from New York - entertaining to listen to and some good anecdotes.
jordanash
17-01-2004, 23:38
One to avoid at all costs is the director/star/producer commentary for Eight Legged Beasts. It comes across like a calculaated insult to anyone who was rash enough to buy or rent the DVD - I watched a friend's copy.
I was stupidly harsh about the commentary on the new release of My Darling Clementine (region 1 only so far), after hearing only a few minutes. It still sounds scripted but its talk of John Ford's "El Greco skies" really won me over.
The commentary on the R1 Fahrenheit 451 is one of the very best I've heard. It immediately heads into my top five....
It's listed as a Julie Christie commentary but is in fact a skilfully compiled selection of anecdotes, analysis and comment from the film editor, Julie Christie, one of the producers, Ray Bradbury himslef, Lourent Bouzereau (DVD extras producer), the biographer for Bernard Hermann etc etc. Each contributor is announced as they speak and the time for each section of commentary runs from one sentence to several minutes. All of the participants make a positive contribution and there is not a dull moment.
The preferred format for commentary seems to be the team approach where all particpants are gathered in one location (Romero's Knightriders is perhaps the best example of this approach), but here the carefully selected compilation method is perfect.
Incidentally, the whole package for this release is praiseworthy - the video transfer looks immaculate apart from one or two shots, the sound is mono but clear, and the documentaries are well-considered and packed.
One of the best releases of the year overshadowed by the bulk ofsome of the uber-sets (Alien Quadrilogy etc).
Steve
KeyserSoze
27-01-2004, 09:03
is Fahrenheit 451 a good movie ?
better than Equilibrium ?
;)
As ever Rodriguez delivers on the Once Upon a Time in Mexico commentary. He really gets into it and is both entertaining and educational. Seems he's really jumped on the HD filming bandwagon and from what he says it seems to be a huge leap in film making and i quite agree with him that those that stay with film/35mm are doing it purely for nostalgic reasons.
Originally posted by KeyserSoze
is Fahrenheit 451 a good movie ?
better than Equilibrium ?
;)
Fahrenheit is an excellent film. Actually, while I love Bradbury the novel is my least favourite work of his - works much better as a movie. Helps if you like a 60s feel to a movie (but not "Beach Blanket Bingo" kinda 60s feel), don't mind a lack of action, and dig German and British accents. Good for a change of pace afetr "Volcano High".
As for "Equilibrium", er.... :thinking: ... dunno. :searchme:
Heh heh, I think it takes a different approach.
Steve
R2 Freddy vs. Jason
A 3 Man comentary with Robert Englund, Ken Krizenger and Ronny yu. As expected Robert E leads the track and goes into lots of detail about the freddy charater and all teh other elm street films. A great track.
zeroCool
30-01-2004, 12:24
Marv, do any of the Friday 13th's have decent commentaries?
Yeah the R1, Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday - has a very good comentary, which is fun to listen too and informative. The two guys doing the comentary sound like there having a great time and seem to have forgotten just how Gory the unrated cut of the film is.
IHATELIFE
31-01-2004, 23:16
I enjoyed the commentary track by Tony Wilson on 24hpp :thumbs:
ryonhilluk
02-02-2004, 15:58
Another :thumbs: for the Futurama Season 2 commentaries.
ryonhilluk
14-03-2004, 20:19
IGN have compiled a list of commentaries here.
http://dvd.ign.com/articles/496/496425p1.html
Just finished Eli Roth's commentary on Cabin Fever.
This guy hits you with a barrage of info regarding the making of his movie - not so much scene specific but more about his influences and how he got started in the industry.
He also mention how he got paid $35 by Troma to record the commentary for their release of Bloodsucking Freaks - might have to dig that one out of the collection to see if it matches up to his Cabin Fever effort.
Judging by this effort, if Roth gets the opportunity to make more films he could become the King of Commentaries:thumbs:
What, even better than Robert Rodriguez??
He's my commentary king so far. Not got round to watching Cabin Fever yet, i did rather enjoy Wrong Turn even though i thought i wouldn't. Is it the same sort of film??
Originally posted by Robby
Not got round to watching Cabin Fever yet, i did rather enjoy Wrong Turn even though i thought i wouldn't. Is it the same sort of film?? Not seen either but I don't think Eli Roth would appreciate you comparing the two!
Check this interview (http://www.joblo.com/arrow/interview90.htm) and scroll half way down to the 'Yeah, I heard you hated "Wrong Turn"' bit. :lol:
I would have quoted Eli Roth but there's more swearing than gawd!
DanWilde1966
15-03-2004, 14:21
Great commentaries:
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Hooper, Pearl, Hansen)
The Thing (Carpenter, Russell)
The French Connection & The Exorcist (Friedkin)
Last House on the Left (Craven, Hess, Lincoln, et al)
Fahrenheit 451 is indeed a fascinating commentary and a great film.
The "visual commentary" on Finding Nemo is quite jolly.
The worst commentaries I have heard recently:
Dances With Wolves (Costner droning on -- :mad: )
Dr Terror's House of Horrors (Freddie Francis, apparently in the throes of Altzheimers on this evidence, twittering away.)
odd.. i thought Friedkin on the french connection was dull.. it was like a running commentary of exactly what was going on, on screen..
DanWilde1966
15-03-2004, 14:29
Originally posted by orac
odd.. i thought Friedkin on the french connection was dull.. it was like a running commentary of exactly what was going on, on screen..
I can see your point, though I am biased: I think he is a genius filmmaker on his day, insane, intellectually razor sharp, a bit sadistic - brilliant - and fascinating to listen to.
Robby
I think Rodriguez is the current king, but I think his crown could be taken if Roth continues like he has started (sitting in on five commentaries on his first movie).
I guess we'll have to see what happens:)
DanWilde1966
15-03-2004, 17:58
Roth obviously talks better than he directs: Cabin Fever was an appalling film. :suspect:
Quite tempted to buy Cabin Fever now for the commentary although i said i'd never buy a film for the commentary again after i bought Sidewalks of New York which has an Edward Burns comm................. still not found time to listen to it and i must have had it a year if not longer.
Granted, Cabin Fever is no masterpiece and will probably forgotten about in a few years time, but it's still the best horror movie to come out of the states in a good while.
Of course by saying that I'm probably letting myself in for some criticism:brickwall
The commentary on Strange Days is a bit disappointing.
It's a recording of a lecture she gave about the camera techniques just played over the film.
Unfortunately it relies on being able to see the slides she is showing for the lecture - which don't match up with the film.
An under-appreciated SF film though and only $2-3 at dvdpacific
duckwaffle
28-09-2004, 22:19
Can't believe no-one's mentioned Shaun of the Dead yet. All 4 commentaries are great fun to listen to, even the zombie's one! :thumbs:
Unfortunately, the same can't be said for Airplane! Great film, duff commentary. It's just the Zuckers saying what they didn't put in the film was awful, and what they left in wasn't much better. That's the vibe I got from listening to them droning on.... :shrug:
As for TV show commentaries, Futurama :notworthy , Red Dwarf :D and the Ricky Gervais one on Animals is possibly the funniest commentary I've ever heard. Shame the Simpsons ones are rather dissapointing, shoulda got some voice actors in to liven up the mood a tad! :wave:
Both commentaries on Kevin Smith's Jersey Girl are excellent, & both are considerably funnier than the movie itself.
It's worth buying the disc just to hear Kevin's rant about the Mirror's 3AM Girls in the first 15 minutes of the Smith/Affleck commentary. :notworthy
LordoftheDance
29-09-2004, 11:33
Tony Scott's and inparticular Quentin Tarantino's commentaries on <I>True Romance</i>. :thumbs:
That's what I was going to say. Tarantino in particular had me guffawing a couple of time with some choice anecdotes. :thumbs:
I love all the commentaries I've heard from FX god,director,actor,stuntman and all round good egg Tom Savini and it was with great excitement I sat up late one night and listened to him blabbering on with director George Romero and his good lady and moderator Perry Martin on the new Dawn of the Dead set from ABUS.Excellent stuff.
A commentary should be both informative and entertaining and this track ticks both boxes for me.
As a bonus the cast track on the same set is another little gem.The cast have a great time chattering on about the good old days and taking the mick out of each other and it is an absolute pleasure to spend a couple of hours in their company.
The same set features another commentary from producer Richard Rubenstein but I'm saving that one for a rainy day. :thumbs:
Michael Mackenzie
29-09-2004, 19:50
I'd completely forgotten about this thread. A few recent hits for me:
- Jean-Jacques Annaud on THE NAME OF THE ROSE
- David Cronenberg and Mark Irwin on VIDEODROME
- David Cronenberg and Peter Weller on NAKED LUNCH
- Eric Bress and J. Mackye Gruber on THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT
- Tim Lucas on BLOOD AND BLACK LACE
- David Koepp and William Goldman on PANIC ROOM
Finally managed to listen to the Comm on Boogie Nights SE, the one where it sounds like PTA invited all and sundry around for a drunken shindig. Not particularly informative but entertaining in a way. The only thing i took away from it was that Luiz Guzman is probably the biggest stoner around since Jay & Silentbob.
Jon Cybernet
06-10-2004, 09:01
Both commentaries on Kevin Smith's Jersey Girl are excellent, & both are considerably funnier than the movie itself.
It's worth buying the disc just to hear Kevin's rant about the Mirror's 3AM Girls in the first 15 minutes of the Smith/Affleck commentary. :notworthy
I'd second this, The Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes Commentary had me in stitches last night, far better than the movie, and Mewes talks extensively and honestly about his Herion addiction and subsequent rehab that took place around the time Smith was making Jersey Girl.
Looking forward to the other commentary now!
Good Commentaries
Dog Soldiers :thumbs:
Futurama (sepecially the one where Billy West does the whole episode in character as "Zoidberg" :clap:
Bad Commentaries:
U.S. Marshalls - huge gaps, they even tell you to skip ahead to another track to carry on.
Guns of Navarone - Directors Comm. It was dull as dishwater, I turned it off at the mountain climbing scene.
Star Trek Generations is very good
A very 'honest' commentary
Good Commentaries
Dog Soldiers :thumbs:
Futurama (sepecially the one where Billy West does the whole episode in character as "Zoidberg" :clap:
Any idea which episode this is? I remember it being hilarious and really want to watch it again, but dont want to have to go through 4 seasons worth of commentaries to find it
Any idea which episode this is? I remember it being hilarious and really want to watch it again, but dont want to have to go through 4 seasons worth of commentaries to find it
Sorry, all I can remember is that its not season 1
I'm not sure whether or not these've been mentioned.
Darren Aronofsky's comments on 'Requiem for a Dream' are great. Interesting, funny, relevent and entertaining. Quite possibly one of the best commentaries out. Jake Gyllenhaal and Richard Kelly on the theatrical cut of 'Donnie Darko' present an excellent, low-key commentary
My favs..
Shaun of the Dead - Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright + Main cast one
Spaced - Series 1 and 2
Phoenix Nights - Series 1 and 2
Idle Hands is decent too
Michael Cimino's commentary for The Deerhunter is excellent - really adds to the experience of the movie and provides so much personal insight into being a director - one that deserves repeated listenings.
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