Eddie Murphy is the thorn in Robert De Niro's side for the light but enjoyable buddy cop flick "Showtime", which appears an equally acceptable DVD.

TECHNICAL FEATURES

Picture The slick look of "Showtime" transfers to disc with a smooth veneer that's impressively bright with detail.

Sound A lively 5.1 sound mix helps whip the pace of the film along, and includes some big bass highlights for the action scenes.

SPECIAL FEATURES

Audio Commentary Director Tom Dey is joined by story writer/producer Jorge Saralegui for a fairly upbeat guide to the making of the movie. Dey wanted to avoid using the usual LA locations seen in other films, and he talks us through the alternative backdrops he used instead. Dey hadn't wanted to do another buddy movie, having just come off "Shanghai Noon", but was tempted by the acting talent on offer, and he discusses how to direct such big stars. He also gives special mention to Kadeem Hardison for his small but funny role.

Documentary In fact it's a 14-minute 'making of' featurette, complete with the usual cast and crew interviews on plot and character. The difference here is that it's hosted by William Shatner, who gives us a breakdown on the important elements needed in a TV cop show. It's only moderately funny, but the tongue-in-cheek presentation makes a welcome change from the promotional cheese you'd usually get with a Hollywood flick.

Additional Scenes Eight deleted scenes are on offer, and most of them are worth watching. Tom Dey provides an optional commentary.

Additional Special Features Also on the DVD is a cast and crew list, plus a trailer.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION:
Chapters: 28
Ratio: 2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Audio Tracks: Multiple languages
Subtitles: Multiple languages
Captions: English and Italian
Menus: Static with music
Subtitles (Special Features): All the special features come with subtitles apart from the trailer, main feature audio commentary, and commentary for the deleted scenes.

This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-S57 DVD player.