Review of Mrs. Doubtfire

Video

Mrs Doubtfire is presented in its original 2.35:1 widescreen ratio. Although not a ‘special effects’ type movie, an anamorphic transfer would have been nice. But hey, this is a Fox disc, so maybe this is only to be expected.

That said, the transfer is first rate, sharp and high vivid colour. The layer change is very noticeable and quite early on in the movie. Maybe they did this to accommodate the large amount of extras included on this DVD presentation. The film is divided up into 23 chapters.

Audio

A Dolby Digital 5.0 (yes 5.0!) soundtrack is present. There were several points in the movie where there is plenty of front channel left and right effects, and rears are used sufficiently but are not intrusive.

Features

There are many extras supplied on this disc, accessible through static menus. You get a full commentary by Director Chris Columbus, a load of deleted scenes lasting about 40 minutes, cast interviews, make up behind-the-scenes footage, and three trailers.

Conclusion

This is a funny movie, but behind the jokes is quite a sad story. Robin Williams plays the lead role that could have been written for him, and it is difficult to envisage anyone else playing the part. Williams dons his granny look in order to be with his children, as Saturday visitation rights granted from his divorce is not enough for him. The jokes come thick and fast and Sally Field and Pierce Brosnan are good supporting roles.

The DVD is well put together with a nice set of extras. The make up screen tests are worth a view, and the commentary is very informative Overall a good family movie.