MGM brings Mel Brooks' science fiction farce Spaceballs to DVD with both widescreen and standard versions on the same disc, and 5.1 Surround Sound, though the movie's lackluster production values make it difficult to discern the quality of the transfer. Still, for fans of actor/writer/director Brooks, the full-length commentary (originally recorded for the laserdisc release) includes his trademark quips and a genuine appreciation of the actors and other collaborators on the film. He has an amazing memory for the details of their careers before and after working with him. It's also refreshing for a director to mock his own work, as well as laugh at the comic bits he has undoubtedly seen dozens of times. In a brief behind-the-scenes featurette, cast members John Candy, Rick Moranis, and others talk about the pleasure of working with Brooks and share stories of on-set goofiness. Basically, for fans of Brooks' unique comic sensibilities, the DVD makes a worthwhile evening's entertainment.
This reviewer is a member of the Best Buy Tech Insider Network Program. This invitation-only program provides BestBuy.com reviewers with manufacturer-supplied products for the purpose of writing honest, unbiased and usage-based reviews. Outside of receiving products to test and review, Best Buy Tech Insider Network Reviewers are not compensated in any other way.
I love this movie! This was one of Mel's best shows, and I've seen nearly all of his stuff. Those of you who know Brooks-"Lord Dark Helmet" in tone and schtick is a 're-invention' of Ron Rifkin's "Prince John" in "When Things were Rotten". It was as if Brooks told Rick Moranis, "Remember how Rifkin did Prince John? That's what I want. Do that." Daphne Zuniga was spot on, and gorgeous. John Candy was perfect. All in all, a great show.
This reviewer is a member of the Best Buy Tech Insider Network Program. This invitation-only program provides BestBuy.com reviewers with manufacturer-supplied products for the purpose of writing honest, unbiased and usage-based reviews. Outside of receiving products to test and review, Best Buy Tech Insider Network Reviewers are not compensated in any other way.
I saw this in the theater when it came out, and enjoyed it. Had it in video-VHS/DVD and was hoping the Blu-ray would have improved picture. Actually, for what it is, it is okay, but the Blu-ray mastering exposed how weak the production values were-the carnival scenes must have cost them about 12 bucks. The best part of the show? Bernadette Peters-she was gorgeous in this, and deserved a better movie.