Review of History Of The World Part 1

Video

This film is one of Mel Brooks’ best works, consisting of several ‘eras’ in the History of the World from the Stone Age, to the Roman Empire, the French Revolution etc. Each segment is self contained, and the cast play many separate roles. Although a comedy, this film benefits from many lavish sets which gives the impression that a high budget was enjoyed.

The DVD is presented in widescreen 2.35:1 split over 19 chapters. For an 18 year old movie, they really did their homework in locating a glitch free print for this transfer. I only noticed a couple of clicks on the video, and these were only noticeable on long shots of a light colour i.e. light blue sky.

Colours are vibrant and although the image is not as sharp as perhaps it could be, it is still clear that much attention has been paid to the video transfer. Readers of my reviews will know that I am very enthusiastic on the use of DVDs to get the best out of older movies. These comedies were highly popular in the early 80s, and although they are regularly repeated on TV, it cannot match the widescreen, uncut, no commercials, high quality version that the DVD can offer.

Audio

Due to the age of the film, we are ‘treated’ to a Dolby Digital Mono soundtrack here. Not much comment apart from it’s the best you’ll get. No plans so far to remix these films into 5.1 as has been done with other older movies.

Features

Menus are static, and all you get is the original theatrical trailer.

Conclusion

I have always liked Mel Brooks’ films (however I thought ‘Space Balls’ was the weakest). Who else will treat you to such monumental epics as ‘Jews in Space’ and ‘Hitler on Ice’ as you get with History of the World Part One?!! I love bad taste fun poking comedy, and Mel Brooks is the master. The Spanish Inquisiiton segment of this movie treats us to a lavish song and dance number, with dancing monks and singing and swimming nuns!

The DVD is quite cheap actually, and for what you get is pretty good value for money. The video quality is very good given the age of the film, and although you only get the trailer as an extra, fans of Mel Brooks should not miss out on this!