As you'll find out on his DVD of Soderbergh's minimalist remake of "Solaris", producer James Cameron planned a rather different take on the novel had he decided to direct it.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
Picture Moody and characterised by steely greys and blues, this subtle and sharp transfer is beautifully done.
Sound The 5.1 sound mix is haunting and enveloping while giving the impression of infinite space.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Audio Commentary This is James Cameron's first audio commentary. Joining him for the moment is director Steven Soderbergh. Together they provide an interesting discussion on the film and offer an excellent insight into the production process.
Steven comments on how his film is very different from what Cameron might have directed, which prompts James to joke that he'd probably have had more car chases. Cameron is adamant, though, that he is fully supportive of Soderbergh's vision and likes the minimalism Soderbergh brought to the project.
Rather annoyingly, both discuss in some detail alternate cuts of scenes and indeed a longer cut of the film they think is more rewarding and challenging. They also agree that this material should go on a future special edition DVD, so bear that in mind.
HBO Special This 13-minute look at the making of the film is interesting for some of the behind-the-scenes footage but otherwise the interviews are pedestrian in what they offer.
Solaris: Behind the Planet Is Hollywood the home of bad techno music? They're awfully fond of using it on featurettes like this further behind-the-scenes effort. It's damned annoying and clashes completely with the serenity of what we see, including Soderbergh directing George Clooney, and a look at the special effects in the film.
Additional Extra Features Also on the DVD are extracts from the screenplay and a selection of preview trailers.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Chapters: 25
Ratio: 2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Audio Tracks: English
Subtitles: See Captions
Captions: English
Menus: Animated, with music
Special Features Subtitles All of the special features come with subtitles apart from the preview trailers.
This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.
Solaris DVD (2003)