Spike Lee's latest movie is also being hailed by many as his best in years. Returning to the "time-limited, pressure cooker environment" that distinguished Lee's earlier He Got Game and Do The Right Thing, Lee deals with New York post 9/11 as a subtext to Edward Norton considering his final 24 hours before he begins a seven year stretch in the pokey. With such a good reception for this "moving, witty character piece", it's therefore apt that the DVD should take this opportunity to provide a retrospective on Lee's career to date.

A Director's Director

Although The Evolution Of An American Filmmaker documentary runs at a brisk 22 minutes, it's a well structured programme that's bolstered by interviews with such heavyweights as Scorsese and Lumet on Lee's contribution to US film. Watching it, you're reminded of the number of stars Lee has introduced to the global stage, Denzel Washington being his most famous discovery.

Lee The Tour Guide

Spike also proves to be a natural in delivering an informative and entertaining audio commentary. If you're unfamiliar with New York he's a great tour guide, discussing locations that are personal to him. It's one facet of a detailed commentary that reveals his unique approach to filmmaking. Just as good is writer David Benioff, who has his own track, discussing how his original novel, subsequent screenplay, and Lee's opinions married to produce the final film.

Deleted Hoffman

You must check out the deleted scenes that include some inspired comedic acting by Philip Seymour Hoffman.

EXTRA FEATURES

This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.