English Dolby Digital 5.1, English DTS 5.1, French Dolby
Surround, Spanish Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
English, Spanish, Closed-captioned
Extras:
Audio
Commentary with Director Bryan Singer and Brian Peck, Enhanced
Viewing Mode, THX Optimizer, Production Documentary Scrapbook,
"The Uncanny Suspects" Featurette, "X-Factor"
Featurette,
Image Gallery, Character Gallery, "Special Effects of the
X-Men" Featurette, Trailers, TV Spots, Internet Interstitials,
"Reflections of the X-Men" Featurette, X-Men 2 Sneak
Preview, Daredevil Teaser
X-Men was waited upon with eager
anticipation upon its release, as every book-to-screen transfer is,
and didn't disappoint. From a story that succeeded for fans and
non-fans alike to excellent casting (ie. Ian McKellen-as-Magneto,
Patrick Stewart-as-Xavier and Hugh Jackman-as-Wolverine), this movie
was fantastic on so many levels. I did find there was a lack of action
in the movie, but it is understandable that the world of X-Men and its
characters had to be set up.
After the initial DVD was released in November 2000, the studio felt
the need to put out a special edition featuring more behind the scenes
footage. I found some to be not that interesting, such as the costume
designs, screens tests and the X-Men premiere footage. However, there
is plenty to keep the die hard fan entertained. A special feature
allows the viewer to go see behind-the-scenes footage of selected
parts of the movie, along with including in multiple deleted scenes. A
commentary featuring director Bryan Singer as well as Brian Peck is surprisingly
interesting for a two-person commentary, with tons of insights about
the movie and the making-of process. Finally, a special sneak preview
of X-Men 2 provided little detail about the film itself, but piqued my
interest enough to make me go and see it on opening day.
X-Men 1.5 is designed more for the hardcore fan of the series than the
casual viewer. However, seeing X-Men again before the release of the
sequel is essential for everyone.
