The Deep End Of The Ocean
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Treat Williams, Jonathan Jackson
Extras: Theatrical Trailer, Featurette, Talent Bios
Rating:
“The Deep End Of The Ocean” is based on a novel by Jacquelyn Mitchard. It is the story of a couple whose 3-year old son has been kidnapped. The film explores the hurt, blame, and depression that accompanies this awful crime. Then, nine years after the abduction, when the family has gotten back into a routine, something shocking happens and tears the family apart again. While the film sticks to the novel’s premise, it doesn’t dig as deeply into the emotional turmoil as the book does. This gives the movie a very superficial feeling.
The Columbia DVD of “The Deep End Of The Ocean” is presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, which shows no warping of the frame. The film looks good, and the picture is very clear. Unfortunately, director Ulu Grosbard shot the film in a very matter of fact style, presumably to add to the reality of the story, so the film has a very flat look, with muted colors.
The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio is acceptable for a dialogue driven film such as this, but don’t expect much action from the rear speakers. The DVD contains the theatrical trailer, a short “Making-Of” featurette, and very sparse talent bios. “The Deep End Of The Ocean” was not the dramatic experience that I’d hoped it would be. Still, if you’re looking for a moving film that isn’t as depressing as it may sound, then I say dive in.
