James Bond Ultimate Edition Vol 1

JAMES BOND ULTIMATE EDITION VOLUME 1

MGM HOME VIDEO/20TH CENTUREY-FOX

STATS
DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, Color, CC, Languages: English, French, Subtitles: English, French, Chapters: 32, Price: $89.95

GOLDFINGER
Anamorphic Widescreen (1.66:1), Original MONO, French 5.1, Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Thai, Chapters: , Running Time 110 mins., Rated PG

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1), Original MONO, French 5.1, Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Thai, Running Time 120 mins., Rated PG

THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN Anamorphic Widescreen (1.85:1), Original MONO, Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Thai, Running Time 125 mins., Rated PG

THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS
Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1), Original MONO, French 5.1, Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Thai, Running Time 131 mins., Rated PG

THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH
Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1), French 5.1, Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Thai, Running Time 128 mins., Rated PG -13

THIS REVIEW HAS BEEN FORMATED FOR W-I-D-E-S-C-R-E-E-N MONITORS

THIS IS AN ONGOIING REVIEW - NEW ADDITIONS WILL BE IN YELLOW

VISUAL
All transfers are excellent. Colors are magnificent – vibrant, rich and, except where listed below are constant. Grain level is also either extremely low, or non-existent. These transfers are the best any of any of these films have ever been seen in for home video.

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER – There is slight degrade in visual quality beginning at 1hr. 20min, 25secs. – color turns a bit pink and contrast is off – with blacks poor. 1hr. 21mins, 25secs.

THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS – Nothing wrong here, but of note it should be mentioned that English subtitles for a Russian speaking character which were omitted from a previous DVD release have been reinstated.

AUDIO
Each film originally produced in MONO has gotten a royal re-mix in 5.1 with DTS/Dolby Digital sound. The new mixes are clean and surprisingly dimensional. Each film/mix retains its own sense of character as well keeping this a job of significant rendering. There’s a lot of frontal panning, especially with dialog opening up and matching the widescreen splendor. Although sound effects are sometimes panned to and between the rears, and have their own directness this varies from film to film. Music however heavily directional and is more akin to listening to a stereo CD – clear, bright, with a wide soundstage full of depth. The sonic clarity richly creates at home a theatre-like presence for so many who have never seen many of these Bond films in a cinema.

Thankfully along with the newly recorded 5.1 mixes it was decided these releases would include the original MONO, for those films mixed that way. This is not just a nod to purists, but also to those who worked on the films. There is nothing wrong in re-working the original elements and procuring an update which budget or technical lacking of the day denied the original production. But what was originally presented should be preserved for respect if nothing else.

PRESENTATION
Upon first glance the bit gold and black box isn’t that impressive. Once the shrink wrap is peeled way the mustard color turns out to be a gold foil and the Bond logo glistens of silver foil. Slide out the inner box/tray and the bulk of this set comes into play. Each film is packed in a slim-line black Plastic Amaray. Included is a booklet for each film with background info, and color photos.
Menus are simply outrageous and classy – some of the best EVER put onto DVD. Although the layout is the same for every film it is also made unique by that film’s music and scenes.
Animated, and with sound there are also transitions to each sub-menu. I would advice all views to just sit down and enjoy each menu because they are done so well. Unlike the over burdened DISNEY menus these are fitting, and straight to the point, and easy on the eye. Sleek is the word that comes to mind. With so many sub-menus it can become daunting and confusing, but in this case it isn’t. Best of all, when needed the viewer can skip ahead of the animation to make your choice.
Hands down this is probably one of the best laid out releases ever for DVD.

GOLDFINGER
DISC 1

DISC 2
This disc is broken down into the following –
DECLASSIFIED: M16 VAULT
SEAN CONNERY FROM THE SET OF GOLDFINGER – 1.33:1, B&W, MONO, Running Time 3mins, 11secs. This archival piece has Sean being interviewed on the set of the film. It is raw and without glitz, a nice piece of simple straight forward publicity from the day from the BBC.

THEODORE BIKEO SCREEN TEST for the part of GOLDFINGER– 1.85:1, Color, MONO, Running Time 5 mins, 38 secs.

TITO VANDIS SCREEN TEST for the part of GOLDFINDER - 1.85:1, Color, MONO, Running Time 4 mins, 11 secs.

ON TOUR WITH THE ASTIN MARTIN DB-5 – 1.33.1, 1.85:1letterbox, Color/B&W – Archival footage of the car used in publicity along with film clips are shown covering how the car travel over the world in conjunction of release of GOLDFINGER, and even used in commercials of the day. Running Time 11mins. 40 secs.

HONOR BLACKMAN OPEN ENDED INTERVIEW – B&W, 1.33:1 – Archival footage pre-prepared by the studio of the day showing Honor answering questions that were also prepared for local newscasters when edited together would look like she was interviewed by that interviewer. Running Time 3mins., secs.58

007 MISSION CONTROL
In this section under the following choices, 007, THE WOMEN, ALLIES, VILLIANS, MISSION COMBAT MANUAL, Q BRANCH, EXOTIC LOCATIONS, the viewer after making a choice, is shown clips from the film accordingly -This for the avid BOND fan who at a glance can bring up a chosen point of reference. EG: Under 007 on sub-selection is “Drinks with 007”. Once chosen another sub-selection is given showing all the drinks Bond has during the film. The views clicks on one or the “play all” feature and that scene/s in the film are shown showcasing the drink.

MISSION DOSSIER
THE MAKING OF GOLDFINGER Documentary: 1.33:1 w/1.85:1 letterbox clips, Color/B&W, Stereo 2.0, Running time 26 mins., 05 secs. This all inclusive “making of’ has on camera interviews, with cast and crew members along with some behind the scenes footage. Thankfully, footage only briefly seen in this documentary are also included in full as other bonus materials – this is the first time these materials have been made available on their own.

THE GOLDFINGER PHENOMENON Documentary: 1.33:1, Color/B&W, Stereo 2.0, Running time 29 mins., 14 secs. Instead of mixing the publicity what was to follow the release of GOLDFINGER with the making of featurette all this in coved in more detail with this one. A lot of archival news footage is interwoven to better illustrate the publicity and even merchandising popularity of the 007 franchise.

ORIGINAL PUBLICITY FEATURETTE: 1.33:1, B&W, MONO Running time 2 mins., 15 secs., This piece centers on Harold Sakata and Honor Blackman and their characters. Thankfully this is one of the featurettes from which scenes were plucked and edited into the “making of “, and can been viewed in its entirety.

ORIGINAL RADIO INTERVIEWS WITH SEAN CONNERY:

MINESTIRY OF PROPAGANDA
ORIGINAL THEATRICAL TRAILER – 1.33:1, Color, MONO
RADIO SPOTS ( )
TV SPOTS (34) Including a radio interviews with Sean Connery

IMAGE DATABASE
STILL GALLERY: Each is viewer advanced and broken down into the following;
THE FILMMAKERS, PORTIRATS, PRE-CREDITS, THE FONTAINEBLEAU, BOND & JILL, M’S OFFICE, DINNER WITH COLONEL SMITHERS, STOKE POGES, ANDERMATT, THE LASER TABLE, HONORED WITH HONOR, THE FLYING CIRCUS, AURIC STUD, A ROLL IN THE HAY, FORT KNOX, NO TIME TO BE RESCUSED, THE ASTON MARTIN DB5, GILDING JILL, KEN ADAM, BOND MEETS HIS MAKER, “GOLDENFINGER” AROUND THE GLOBE, MERCHADISING

EXTRAS

SIGHTS AND INSIGHTS
In THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN, of all the Bonds this one has inadvertently dated itself using a minor and insignificant part of history as exposition. In fact a younger audience, unaware of the reference may blame the writing of the film for not better explaining the vagueness of an “energy crisis” stated in a throw-away line.

Pierce Brosnan has been quoted as saying he was the one who made BOND popular again. He has also been quoted he would like to be the one to kill him off. Well Pierce, perhaps it’s time. The glimmer of anything that was BOND which GOLDENEYE shone has steeply diminished with each seceding addition starring Brosnan.
In a nut shell, there is no class. In TOMORROW NEVER DIES the series fell to the commonality of using techniques associated with lower end Chinese cinema complete with slow-motion effects. It was in that same film BOND began his lower element decent with double fisted guns. Now in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH Bronsan regulates his gun like a common drug lord in a Quentin Tarantino film. In Bond’s first confrontation with this film’s villain he literally moves his gun seven times to seven different positions on his opponents head. This common maneuver usually seen in grade B “gangsta” films is not typical 007, nor British Secret Service behavior. Besides, why would this multi-position of the gun phase a man whose head already has a bullet in it, and is slowing dying anyway?! Bringing me to another new low for BOND - this film’s villain, Robert Carlyle as Renard, looks as if he was defrosted from suspended animation as a survivor from a concentration camp. His character is ugly, common and without any finesse making him substandard to 007 and with past BOND villains. Then again we’re not dealing with Connery, Moore, or even Lazenby or Dalton.
Even BOND girls have fallen from grace. Any previous BOND wouldn’t, even on a bad day, have to “settle” for women that looked this bad. Now we have Sophie Marceau who has the hair of a muppet from the DARK CRYSTAL, but that’s okay considering what her character turns out to be. But there’s no excuse for the casting of Denise Richards as Christmas Jones. She makes Tanya Roberts seem like a member of the Royal British Theater. I can only guess Ms. Richards was hired for her lips. (You figure that remark out yourself people.) Tomorrow may never die, but BOND certainly has. Rest in peace 007. Oh, and Pierce, I hope you’re happy.

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EXTRAS

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER
DISC 1
AUDIO COMMENTARIES: In all 16 members from both cast and crew are heard from, edited together making one hell of a listen.

DISC 2
This disc is broken down into the following –
DECLASSIFIED: M16 VAULT
SEAN CONNERY 1971 THE BBC INTERVIEW - 1.33:1, Color, MONO, Running Time 5 mins., 14 secs. Connery very much at ease, and in control of the situation answers questions from a rather sleazy, rather snide interviewer.

LESSON #007 CLOSE QUARTER COMBAT – 1.33:1, Color, MONO, Running Time 4 mins., 21 secs., This short behind the scenes footage covers the elevator fight in the film and unusual challenges faced within such small confines.

OIL RIG ATTACK – 2.35:1 Anamorphic, Color, Stereo (Music), Running Time 2 mins., 21 secs., This unused footage of scuba men dropped from helicopters for the final assault on the oil rigs at the film’s climax is presented in extremely good quality. It is shown with music from the film.

SATILITE TEST REEL – 2.35:1, Color, Stereo (Music), Running Time 1 mins., 58 secs.,
Michael Wilson narrates the various layers of special effects footage tests for the special effects layers; and production sketches.

EXPLOSION TESTS – 2.35:1, Color, Stereo (Music) Running Time 1 mins., 52 secs., As with the SATILITE TEST REEL footage this footage is presented much in the same manner with Michael Wilson starting off with a explanatory narration.

ALTERNATE AND EXPANDED ANGLES – This multi-screen presentation showcases sequences that have been recreated using never before footage. They are broken down into the following: ELEVATOR FIGHT, MOONBUGGY CHASE, VEGAS CHASE, BAMBI & THUMPER, BOND ARRIVES ON THE OIL RIG.
All sequences are 2.35:1, and anamorphic (except with muli-screen), and stereo.

DELETED SCENES – All are presented in anamorphic 2.35:1.
SAMMY DAVIS JR. (Running time 1 mins., 06secs.,), KILLING SHADY TREE (Running time 50secs.,), DINNER WITH PLENTY (Running time 1min., 16 secs.,),
PLENTY RETURNS (Running time 49 secs.,), THROUGH THE ALLEY AGAIN (Running time 58 secs.,), MR. AND MRS. JONES (with narration by Michael Wilson Running Time 2mins., 30 secs.),

007 MISSION CONTROL
In this section under the following choices, 007, THE WOMEN, ALLIES, VILLIANS, MISSION COMBAT MANUAL, Q BRANCH, EXOTIC LOCATIONS, the viewer after making a choice, is shown clips from the film accordingly -This for the avid BOND fan who at a glance can bring up a chosen point of reference. EG: Under WOMEN on sub-selections are “Marie”, “Tiffany Case”, “Plenty O’Toole”. Once chosen another sub-selection is given showing all the drinks Bond has during the film. The views clicks on one or the “play all” feature and that scene/s in the film are shown showcasing the drink.

MISSION DOSSIER
INSIDE DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo (2.0) Running time 30 mins. A terrific documentary as detailed and insightful as the other BOND “making ofs” broaching each aspect of the filmmaking process..

CUBBY BROCCOLI - THE MAN BEHIND BOND – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo (2.0), Running time 41 mins., 08 secs. This is a loving tribute to the man who brought 007 to the screen. It covers his entire life highlighted with film clips from his various projects. Family, cast, and crew members reflect with on camera interviews.

MINESTIRY OF PROPAGANDA
Christmas Theatrical Trailer Teaser (2.35:1 letterbox in 4:3 image), Theatrical Trailer (1.85:1)
TV Spots (5) all 1.33:1
Radio Spots (3)

IMAGE DATABASE
STILL GALLERY: Each is viewer advanced and broken down into the following;
INTRODUCTION, SEAN CONNERY, JILL SAINT JOHN, CHARLES GRAY, LANNA WOOD, THE SUPPORTING PLAYERS, DIAMOND SETTINGS, DIAMOND GLAMOUR, BEHIND THE SCENES, WHERE IS BLOFELD, 007 ON THE MOON, ON LOCATION, TITLES

For his final appearance, in DIAMAONDS ARE FOREVER, (not counting NEVER SAY NEVER AGAIN) Connery saunters his 007 persona effortlessly. The film contains perhaps 2 of the most wickedly sadistic and warped pairs of henchman in any BOND adventure. First, Mr. Wint and Mr. Kidd, and secondly, Miss Bambi and Miss. Thumper - eye-opening for its day is the obvious sexual orientation of the male pair and arguably even the female pair. Not since Clebbs in FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE was same sex preference ever so blatantly presented within the series. But perhaps what is more revealing is the quiet way the world around 007 was radically, yet quietly changing since it first debut. Still, as with all BOND films produced under the watchful eye of Cubby everything was done with a style and class that since has not been equaled.

AUDIO COMMENTARY FEATURING DIRECTOR GUY HAMILTON – Although this commentary features DIRECTOR, GUY HAMILTON, and even has some others edited in (Lois Maxwell, and even Honor Blackman) it consists mostly of host who delivery some very interesting tidbits, but has no vocal personality whatsoever. It would have been more interesting to have had someone interview Mr. Hamilton nudging him on while the film was playing. When he speaks there are extremely funny moments and at least the info is then first hand. The host however would be excellent providing his compiled info for a “text commentary”, since his delivery is little more than reading what’s in front of him. On an interesting note, the host mentions that the commentary is for “Laserdisc’, which is nice that it was saved and re-used for this very special DVD release.

AUDIO COMMENTARY FEATUREING THE CAST & CREW – Even though this commentary is littered long silent passages it still holds its own; thank to and excellent host. It is mostly crew members who speak and even then they have been recorded at separate times, and later edited together. But it is the host who fills in those responses with intelligent and depth analysis.

MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN
DISC 1

DISC 2
This disc is broken down into the following –
DECLASSIFIED: M16 VAULT
THE RUSSELL HARDY SHOW – 1.33:1, Color, MONO, Running time.2 mins. 59 secs.
This edited interview has Roger Moore (who is also joined by Harve V ) being interviewed, from British show from 1974. The interviewer has been edited out leaving only Roger and Harve. Surprisingly it all works very well. On an interesting note Harve mentions that he would be in “DUNE”!. The footage is in excellent condition.

ON LOCATION WITH THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN – 1.33:1, Color, MONO Running time 1 mins., 31 secs.
Narrated by producer Michael Wilson this archive footage shows filming in Hong Kong. It has Roger Moore and Britt Ekland, the producer and director.

GIRLS FIGHTING – 1.85:1 (Anamorphic), Color, Running time 3 ,mins, 29 secs. No sound, but stereo music from the film as been added. Again Producer Michael Wilson narrates these dailies of footage covering some of the Kung-fu fighting in the film.

AMERICAN THRILL SHOW STUNT FILM – 1.33:1, Color, MONO, Running time 4 mins. 47 secs. This archive short was produced by the man who was responsible for the spiraling jumping car sequence in THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN. It is made available for the viewer to watch with, or without, a commentary.

THE ROAD TO BOND – 8 mins. This audio only piece has W.J. Milligan, stunt coordinator for the spiral spinning car jump talk about his career and work on the MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN. A color picture (16:9 image) of J Milligan standing with Cubby Broccoli is shown on screen accompanying the audio.

GUY HAMILTON THE DIRECTOR SPEAKS – Running time 5 mins., 3secs., This audio piece is accompanied by B&W and color photos in 16:9. Mr. Hamilton reflects from his humble beginnings as a studio tea boy and his respect for those he learned from.

007 MISSION CONTROL
In this section under the following choices, 007, THE WOMEN, ALLIES, VILLIANS, MISSION COMBAT MANUAL, Q BRANCH, EXOTIC LOCATIONS, the viewer after making a choice, is shown clips from the film accordingly -This for the avid BOND fan who at a glance can bring up a chosen point of reference. EG: “Titles” give the viewer the option to view the main credits with out the text (Titles) allowing the viewer to fully appreciate the visual structure of this very special main credit sequences – they have a “music” video quality about them, even before the term was ever thought of.

MISSION DOSSIER
INSIDE THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 30 mins., 57 secs.
Narrated by Patrick McNeal, as with the other Bond “Making ofs” this is yet another well formatted, and informative piece. Among the points of interests is the problem of choosing a location for the film, and how they differ from the book

DOUBLE-O STUNTMEN A LOOK AT THE GREATESTS STUNTS AND STUNT PERFORMERS IN THE BOND FILMS – 1.33:1 w/clips from films in various aspect ratios., Color, Stereo, Running time 28 mins., 40 secs. This special piece great gives due to those who made each actor who played Bond look his best. The mostly unseen stuntmen who work behind the scenes are given their time in the limelight via on camera interviews, and archival footage.

MINESTIRY OF PROPAGANDA
Coming for Christmas Theatrical Trailer (1.85:1 letterbox in 4:3 image), A Man Called Scaramanga Trailer (1.85:1) letterbox in 4:3 image.
TV Spots (2) one is strangely 1.85:1, the other 1.33:1
Radio Spots (3)

IMAGE DATABASE
STILL GALLERY: Each is viewer advanced and broken down into the following;
PORTRAITS, PRESS CONFERENCE, PHUKET, BANGKOK, BONDING WITH AMC, DOJO 007, ABORD SCARAMANGA’S JUNK, HONG KONG, PINEWOOD, THE GOLDEN GUN, AROUND THE WORLD WITH 007,

AUDIO COMMENTARIES - The first is with Sir Roger Moore, the second with various members of cast and crew. Both are excellent. I preferred Rogers due to his style, and wit. From the start Roger states with isn’t a screen or film commentary but rather thoughts and recollection on his experience in film. Even so, he does have a lot to say on the film. He goes at it alone without the aid of a moderator to nudge him on and fills the time with some well done impersonations. The second commentary is hosted with edited comments from various persons that run the gambit of the film’s production.

THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS brought another new 007 with much debate. The film by many was felt much too politically correct for a “modern” and politically correct society of the mid 1980’s. Suddenly a Bond who smoked was not right, not to mention a sexual promiscuous Bond who suddenly found himself in the midsts of AIDS shocked world.
Towards the films end audiences were thrust into the reality of very current news worthy events taking place in Afghanistan between the Russians and people of that region. At the time it was easy to elect a sympathetic response (especially from Americans) for those fighting for freedom. Now of course in retrospect those very same “feedom” fighters are know to have paved the way for the Taliban. Perhaps the Russians were right all along which now makes Bond’s actions in aiding those “freedom fighters” a complete misjudgment.
At the film’s end Bond states that there is a good restaurant in the city of “Karachi”. As a post script to this writing, announced today on March the 15, 2007 it was announced that terrorist Khalid Sheikh Mohammed confessed to the beheading of American journalist Daniel Pearl in that same city. (Not to mention playing a central role in 30 other attacks and plots in the U.S. and worldwide that killed thousands of victims) So Karachi will now bring much more to mind than a good restaurant suggested by Bond – and those very same “freedom fighters” were the seeds of today’s psychotic Muslim terrorists.

THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS
DISC 1
AUDIO COMMENTARY with DIRECTOR JOHN GLEN and CAST MEMBERS – Director Glen does well in holding his own for the most part of the film At one point he discusses how a cut sequence from the film didn’t work – but is available as a bonus piece on the disc. Much is mentioned of the locations with the movie was filmed. Most interesting of course at this time in history are places which doubled for Afghanistan. For the BOND fans there’s an especially cool tidbit of trivia which concerns a parrot.

DISC 2
This disc is broken down into the following –
DECLASSIFIED: M16 VAULT
DELETED SCENES WITH INTRODUCTION BY DIRECTOR JOHN GLEN - Glen introduces the piece first set the piece then it switches to actual raw footage of various takes. It’s always interesting to see raw footage prior to special effects (optical effects) is added. Color, MONO w/stereo music, 16.9 with 2.35:1 anamorphic footage. Runing time 8 mins., 04secs.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY 007 – Color, 1.33:1, MONO. Roger Moore plays host for this piece done for the 25 Anniversary of Bond (for television in 1987). In his infamous style he guides the viewer in newly done footage that falls between clips from the various films in the series. The piece ends up promoting the “new” Bond for THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS, Timothy Dalton. Done prior to the film’s final edit a keen eyed viewer will spot a scene not in the release version of the film. Running time 48 mins., 29 secs.

SILVER ANNIVERSARY FEATURETTES
CUBBY BROCCOLI – Color, 1.33:1, MONO, Running time 1 mins., 28 secs. This is a standard, for the day, publicity piece probably shown as filler on TV which uses the 25th Anniversary of Bond but showcases the film’s producer.

MARYAM D’ABO- Color, 1.33:1, MONO, Running time 1 mins., 16 secs. This like the “CUBBY” piece pushes the LIVING DAYLIGHTS and her part in it.

AROUND THE WORLD WITH JAMES BOND – Color, 1.33:1, MONO, Running time 1 mins., 31 secs. The piece shares the same narrator as the previous shorts and is done in the same style.

THE NEW BOND CAR – Color, 1.33:1, MONO, Running time 1 mins., 59 secs. The car is at the center of this piece which shares the same format as the previous. All were done to simply promote THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS for TV audiences.

TIMOTHY DALTON: THE NEW JAMES BOND/VIENNA PRESS CONFERENCE – Color, 1.33:1, MONO, Running time 4 mins., 34 secs. Filmed at the time in Vienna this is a lost art of publicity, mostly due to the fact that most film done today don’t deserve this kind of presentation. Although this footage amounts to a group of people sitting at a table and answering questions it is film history and for that reason is interesting and just plain fun to watch actors that are so professional and classy.

TIMOTHY DALTON ON ACTING – Color, MONO, 16.9 Running time 7 mins.,13 secs. This archival footage seems to have been re-formatted for 16.9 from a 1.33:1 source. The image is a bit fuzzy and seems cropped. At the interview was filmed anamorphic press material was not done. Dalton is extremely well spoken and the interview is very different from today quick pace jazzed up press pieces. Back then the style was more relaxed and people didn’t have problems attention deficit.

DALTON AND D’ABO INTERVIEWS – Color, MONO, Running time 5 mins., 44 secs.
The Dalton portion is unused footage from the first interview previous (ON ACTING) and switches back and forth between D’ABO. Material used was originally 1.33:1 and has been reformatted for 16:9. Most interesting is Dalton candidness on first being asked to play Bond and having the sense to turn it down do to his being too young. He saw that maturity was needed to portray the character correctly and didn’t let ego walk ahead of common sense. (I doubt Pierce Bronson would have done the same)

THE ICE CHASE OUTTAKES – DELETED FOOTAGE WITH NARRATION BY DIRECTOR JEHN GLEN – Glen introduces the piece first set the piece then it switches to actual raw footage of various takes. It’s always interesting to see raw footage prior to special effects (optical effects) is added. Color, MONO w/stereo music, 16.9 with 2.35:1 anamorphic footage. Runing time 8 mins., 04secs.

007 MISSION CONTROL
In this section under the following choices, 007, THE WOMEN, ALLIES, VILLIANS, MISSION COMBAT MANUAL, Q BRANCH, EXOTIC LOCATIONS, the viewer after making a choice, is shown clips from the film accordingly -This for the avid BOND fan who at a glance can bring up a chosen point of reference. EG: In the final selection within this part of the bonus features is “Exotic Locations” which showcases all the locations used in the film complete with film clips and narration.

MISSION DOSSIER
INSIDE THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo (2.0), Running time 33 mins., 39 secs. Like the previously done “Making of” this one, so far, is probably my favorite. It has just perfect amount of interviewed responses, archive footage and the like to make it move swiftly and full of great info – plus there a screen test of actor Sam Neil in the role of Bond.

IAN FLEMING: 007’S CREATOR – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo (2.0), Running time 43 mins., 44 secs. What I presumed was going to be a rather slow moving albeit informative pieces turned out to be a mini-movie/bio on the Bond’s creator. This is well worth the sit and move like lightening with twists turns and, best all, it’s all true!

THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS MUSIC VIDEO PERFORMED BY A-HA – Running time 4 mins., 32 secs.

THE MAKING OF THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS MUSIC VIDEO – 1.33:1, Color, Running time 3 mins., 53 secs. Pushing the Anniversary of BOND, as with all of the other LIVING DAYLIGHTS promos, this piece makes the group A-HA the main attraction. Most interesting is the fact the video was done on the 007 soundstage.

MINESTIRY OF PROPAGANDA
All are theatrical trailers: NORTH AMERICAN TEASER (2.35:1) anamorphic, Color 2.0 Stereo, UK TEASER Color, (1.85:1) letterbox in 4:3 image,
RELEASE TRAILER Color, 2.35:1 anamorphic, 2.0 Stereo.

My only quibble are that there are no TV or Radio Spots.

IMAGE DATABASE
STILL GALLERY: Each is viewer advanced and broken down into the following;
INTORDUCTION, TIMOTHY DALTON MARYAM D’ABO, INTRODUCING THE NEW 007, THE VILLAINS, ALLIES, GIBRALTAR, CZECH MATE, VIENNA GAMBIT, DEATH TO SPIES, AFGHANISTAN, HERCULES, BEHIND THE SCENES EXOTIC BEAUTY, MARKETING

Amaray cover, booklet cover.

THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH
DISC 1
AUDIO COMMENTARY FEATURING DIRECTOR MICHAEL APTED & second
AUDIO COMMENTARY FEATUREING PETER LAMOUNT, COMPOSER DAVID ARNOLD and VIC ARMSTRONG – : Of the two the 2nd is the most interesting and entertaining. All come off very well, having worked on multiple BOND features, except Composer Arnold who tries very hard to sound professional and legitimize his score. Funny thing about it is the others don’t seem to care. The other Commentary has Director Michael Apted constantly complaining about how each scene was soooo difficult. Question? Why was he chosen? Most of the action scenes, what the BOND franchise is known for, was done by Second Unit Director Vic Armstrong. Apted was supposedly chosen for his “expertise” in directing drama with hopes to infuse the BOND character with depth. Now, how much more depth could he give when in ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE the character fell in love, married and was a widower by film’s end?

DISC 2
This disc is broken down into the following –
DECLASSIFIED: M16 VAULT
DELETED AND EXTENDED SCENES WITH INTRODUCTIONS BY DIRECTOR MICHAEL APTED – Is it possible that Director Apted actually believes what he says in the intro? Did the producers actually think that no one would assume who was the villain? Of course it’s not Robert Carlyle’s fault how he looks, but then again but bottom line he looks like either drug addict or a thug. Yes, this is how stupid the BOND films have dropped along with those producing them.

DELETED SCENE: MEETING RENARD – Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time, 58 secs. – The scene was originally intended to introduce the villain but dropped due to not making a good enough unveiling. DUH! Didn’t anyone even think that when they read it on paper?!

EXTENDED SCENE: BOND TRIES TO STOP KING – Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 2 mins., 10 secs. Not much added there in this scene which is also accompanied by director Apted commentary droning on why the film I made needed, yet again, had to re-edited because it just didn’t work. Hint. Didn’t anyone realize this in the script stage?!

DELETED SCENE: DBS AT KING’S FUNERAL - Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 18 secs.

EXTENDED SCENE: THE THINGS WE DO FOR ENGLAND – Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 1 mins., 15 secs. – The line that was cut.

DELETED SCENE: STATIC CHARGE - Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 28 secs. – Two bits cut from Q’s lab that didn’t work – no wonder. At this point I grew really sick of Director Apted complaining hoooow really difficult everything was.

DELETED SCENE: OIL & BLOOD - Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 51 secs. – Yet again Apted tells how what he did just didn’t work.

ALTERNITVE SCENE: TROUBLE IN THE PIPELINE - Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 54 secs. – yet more wasted time and effort.

THE BOAT CHASE – This has four extended/alternate/expanded takes within the same scene. Then the scene is presented as originally intended. When a camera icon appears on screen it is a signal for the viewer to switch angles. It also has a introduction by the director. Anamorphic 2.35:1, Color, Stereo

JAMES BOND DOWN RIVER, Original 1999 Featurette – 1.33:1 w/letterboxed 2.35:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 25 mins., 05 secs. – This piece is more in the traditional vein of BOND, mostly due to the real talent in the hands of the second unit, effects and stunt persons involved. There is no bitching as with the director. These people know what to do and how to deliver. Some very good behind the scene footage is shown on location on the Themes where the segment was filmed. Also, the quality is wonderful.

CREATING AN ICON: MAKING THE TEASER TRAILER – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo, 4 mins., 20 secs. An interesting piece that shows the evolution of the teaser complete with behind the scenes footage and test graphics; after which the finished teaser is shown.

HONG KONG PRESS CONFRENCE - This footage of Pierce in front of the Hong Kong press showcases via his answers the lack of class and respect for what followed prior him. He really is full of himself and nothing else. 1.85:1 w/2.35:1 scenes from the film. Color, Stereo, Running time 9 mins., 46 secs.

007 MISSION CONTROL
In this section under the following choices, 007, THE WOMEN, ALLIES, VILLIANS, MISSION COMBAT MANUAL, Q BRANCH, EXOTIC LOCATIONS, the viewer after making a choice, is shown clips from the film accordingly -This for the avid BOND fan who at a glance can bring up a chosen point of reference. EG: Under “Q BRANCH” on sub-selection is “Exploding gun”. Once chosen another sub-selection is given showing all the drinks Bond has during the film. The views clicks on one or the “play all” feature and that scene/s in the film are shown showcasing the drink.

MISSION DOSSIER
THE MAKING OF THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 15 mins., 05 secs.
Compared to the other BOND “Making ofs” this one is simply a cable like filler covering the production in a most banal and simplistic way. Produced in 1999 it is more a promo rather an informative retrospective piece.

BOND COCKTAIL – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 22 mins., 49 secs. Another promo piece done to push the film for its theatrical release – strangely this one is a bit more interesting than the “Making of”.

TRIBUTE TO DESMOND LLEWELYN – 1.33:1, Color, Stereo, Running time 3 mins., 21 secs. This loving tribute is done as a music video compiled from various scenes from the various film “Q” appeared in all to the song “NOBODY DOES IT BETTER” from the SPY WHO LOVED ME. Very nice.

THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH MUISC BY “GARBAGE” – 1.33:1 letterbox, Color, Stereo, Running time 4 mins. 01 secs. What can I say, the group’s name says it all.

THE SECRETS OF 007: ALTERNATE VIDEO OPTIONS – 8 alternately edited scenes and the main title visuals minus text.

MINESTIRY OF PROPAGANDA
RELEASE TRAILER 1.33:1 Letterbox, Color, Stereo, Running time 2 mins., 18 secs.

IMAGE DATABASE
STILL GALLERY: Each is viewer advanced and broken down into the following;
INTRODUCTION, PIERCE BROSNAN, SOPHIE MARCEAU, ROBERT CARLYE, DENISE RICHARDS, MARIA GRAZIA CUCINOTTA, GOLDIE, BOND’S TEAM, BEHIND THE SCENES/BILBAO, BEHIND THE SECENES/Q BOAT, BEHIND THE SCENES/BAKU, BEHIND THE SCENES/SKI CHASE, BEHIND THE SCENES/NUCLEAR TESTING FACILITY, COSTUME DESIGNS, MARKETING