Review of Snatch (2 disc set)

Introduction

Having enjoyed “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels”, I wanted to go and see “Snatch” when it was on at the cinema, but never got around to it. So when it became available for pre-order on DVD, I ordered my copy straight away, confident that I wouldn’t be disappointed.

Like its predecessor, “Snatch” cleverly entangles several related sub-plots into a stylish thriller, this time with a more comic outlook, but still raw and to the point.

I’ll not give a brief synopsis of the film, as the various plots aren’t easy to put into words without spoiling the enjoyment as the story unfolds. However without giving too much away, the film has one storyline revolving around a diamond heist, one revolving around two bare knuckle boxing promoters and another tying the previous two together.

Video

Video comes in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and is very high quality throughout. The film has a deliberate slightly washed-out greyish look that is just perfect for the movie and is beautifully presented.

Visually this film is a treat. From the ultra stylish opening credit sequence to the end of the movie, the movie looks great, using fantastically seedy locations that are perfect for the characters involved.

The opening credit sequence is superbly put together – I really didn’t notice just how good it was until I watched it for the second time. Everyone in the movie is introduced as the picture seamlessly pans from one scene to another.

Audio

The Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack, like the video, is superb. The great music makes full use of all the channels available and the sound has plenty of range. Good use is made of the soundstage for effects and other incidental noises.

Dialogue is clear and mostly understandable throughout the movie. I say mostly, because Brad Pitt’s character speaks a dialect deliberately unintelligible, which is absolutely hilarious and used to good effect in the movie!

Also, when the movie starts we are treated to the Dolby Digital Train intro – which is rarely seen and still sounds great on a good system!

Features

Being a two-disc set, it comes as no surprise that there are plenty of extras. On disc one there’s a director/producer commentary and a “Stealing Stones” feature – similar to the “Follow the White Rabbit” in “The Matrix” but instead using diamonds to indicate points where scenes were removed. Also included is a “jump-to-song” feature.

Disc two contains the main meat, and includes a “making-of” – which is nothing like the usual backslapping nonsense seen on Hollywood releases. This “making-of” consists of tongue-in-cheek interviews with cast and crew, and general horseplay – and is absolutely superb – entertaining from start to finish! There’s also a “B-roll”, trailers, production notes, TV spots, deleted scenes, filmographies, storyboard comparisons, sound bites and photo library.

Conclusion

Snatch is the most stylish and entertaining movie that I have seen for a long time – Guy Ritchie has managed to make a film much better than the excellent “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels”.

Snatch succeeds on all levels – the plot is superb – various sub-plots all leading to the same conclusion and entwined beautifully. Then there’s the great performances from a very good cast – all playing great characters – all of whom has something different to offer. Fantastic style – from the opening credit sequence to the music to the cinematography, the movie just oozes style. Great extras – the two-disc set provides one of the best range of extras available on DVD – superbly presented. And finally great entertainment from start to finish.

There’s not much more to say, apart from my advice that you should go and buy or rent “Snatch” as soon as possible!