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  Directed by
  Starring
  Specs
  • Widescreen 2.35:1
  • 16:9 Enhanced
  • Dual Layer ( )
  Languages
  • English: Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
  • English: DTS 5.1 Surround
  Subtitles
    English, Dutch, English - Hearing Impaired, Hindi
  Extras

    The Mummy Returns (Superbit)

    Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Home Entertainment . R4 . COLOR . 130 mins . M15+ . PAL

      Feature
    Contract

    When I first heard about the ‘Superbit’ concept, I was ecstatic. In their infinite wisdom distributors would finally seek to maximise the audio and video quality of a DVD release at the expense of other inclusions. Indeed, to my mind, premium quality was what DVD was really all about. In theory, it all seemed so obvious. If a movie sucked, then no amount of extras would make it palatable. If a movie was fantastic, then fans would not only buy the disc independent of the inclusions, but also expect the best presentation possible.

    Now, you would think that distributors would start releasing 'Superbit' titles in this latter category before any others, but rather they seem intent on teaching me a lesson. The inherent problem with my theory, of course, is that the majority of films don’t really fit into either category; occupying the void between ‘must have’ and ‘must avoid’. And while I sat and watched this 'Superbit' release of The Mummy Returns, an exceedingly average film in nearly every respect, I was struck by just how wrong I was. Some films just don’t rate the lavish attention to quality, or for that matter a purchase for home consumption, without all the added distractions. For ultimately, that is the real value that DVD extras bring to your average Hollywood dross. Both in terms of marketing and the viewing experience, they allow the consumer to be distracted from the film itself; to be duped into allowing themselves to forget just how ordinary the feature presentation really is. I’m embarrassed to admit the number of times this still works on me.

    Simply put, a basic requirement of any film afforded a 'Superbit' release is that the film must stand on its own. Sadly, The Mummy Returns does not.

    The thing is, on the strength the titles currently available, 'Superbit' should by rights be re-christened Supershit. Sure one or two great films have snuck in there, but the majority of 'Superbit' films, in particular the predominance of crap Hollywood sequels, just don’t meet this basic requirement. So why all the crud? Well, of course the Hollywood sequel mentality often yields films with higher budgets and with it a higher quota of visual and sound effects, than the films that inspired them. The irony is that these effects, as with many effects-laden extravaganzas, are lavished on such films to hide their basic inadequacies. In many cases, then, the 'Superbit' process succeeds only in taking this process to its logical conclusion. Polishing the metaphorical turd as it were.

      Video
    Contract

    The Mummy Returns, while falling directly into this category, is an even more interesting case in point. First time around, the film’s 'Collectors Edition' release won accolades for its outstanding audio and video presentation. Surpassing even The Mummy Ultimate Edition, it shipped with both Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS soundtracks and one of the best transfers then seen on DVD. With only a director’s commentary, minimal subtitles and a few DVD-ROM additions joining the feature on the first of a two disc set, maximum bandwidth was poured into the audio and video transfers. The thing is, when key scenes from the 'Collector's Edition' and this new 'Superbit' release are compared side by side, I’m at a loss to spot or hear any real differences between the two. It’s possible that the image is just a little sharper and the colour a little deeper, but I could just as easily credit this to the power of suggestion. Could it actually be that the 'Superbit' release displays the same audio and video as the 'Collector's' release?

    Theories aside, there is no question that this is one beautiful looking DVD release. The anamorphic, widescreen (2.35:1) transfer has been drawn from a crystal clear print and is absolutely perfect in all respects. Delivering deeply saturated colours and perfect black level, the absolutely stunning detail – both in the bright desert sunshine and the shadows of a midnight oasis – does its best to reveal every flaw in the rather rushed CG job. Why they didn’t just superimpose Dwayne’s head on that giant scorpion thing is anyone’s guess.

      Audio
    Contract

    In keeping with the video, the audio presentation is also stunning with the obligatory Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1 soundtracks provided. As I have said above, these soundtracks both appeared on the 'Collector’s Edition' and under comparison reveal no discernable differences from those provided here. But let’s take nothing away from them. While the DTS mix exhibits slightly better fidelity and channel separation, both mixes are superb examples of the craft. Dialogue is kept clear and distinct throughout; even when mixed with impressive directional effects that span all four corners of the room. And that is most of the time. Like the first film, Alan Silvestri bestows another overly-dramatic score; balanced beautifully between the front and rear. A generous low-end is also provided with the sub providing subtle support in every scene, and called on to shake your windows on a number occasions. There’s no doubt that this is reference quality material we have here.

      Extras
    Contract

    Well, no! That's kinda the point.

      Overall  
    Contract

    I'm at a loss to see just what value this 'Superbit' release of The Mummy Returns really provides. In terms of audio and video quality I honestly can't see or hear any difference between this and the film's previous digital incarnation! With a reduction in the price of the 'Collector's Edition' (with all those tantalisingly distracting extras), frankly you'd be mad to pass it up in favour of this one. I'll certainly be keeping my old edition! Frankly, there's 'Superbit' releases that are must-haves for my collection, but this ain't one of 'em.


  • LINK: http://www.dvd.net.au/review.cgi?review_id=3061
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      And I quote...
    "There are 'Superbit' releases that are must-haves for my collection, but with a kick-arse 'Collector's Edition' available, sadly this ain't one of 'em."
    - Gavin Turner
      Review Equipment
    • DVD Player:
          Toshiba SD-2108
    • TV:
          Panasonic TC-68P90A TAU (80cm)
    • Receiver:
          Yamaha RX-V795
    • Amplifier:
          Yamaha RX-V795
    • Speakers:
          B&W 602
    • Centre Speaker:
          B&W CC6 S2
    • Surrounds:
          JM Lab Cobalt SR20
    • Subwoofer:
          B&W ASW-500
    • Audio Cables:
          Standard Optical
    • Video Cables:
          Standard Component RCA
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