DVD Michael Faraday and his son are still trying to come to terms with the death of his wife when they befriend a family across the road. Michael soon begins to have reservations about the Lang family, realising that they are not what they claim to be.
Details
Do you really know what your neighbours get up to behind closed doors? The film explores American paranoia surrounding domestic terrorism, focusing not on foreign threats but on extremist groups operating within the country itself.
Michael is a teacher and specialist in the study of American terrorism. Still struggling to cope with the loss of his wife, an FBI agent killed during a bungled investigation two years earlier, he finds himself drawn into suspicion when one of his new neighbour's children is injured in what initially appears to be an accident. After rushing the boy to hospital, Michael befriends the Lang family, but soon learns that the injuries were caused by an explosion.
As Michael spends more time with the Langs it becomes increasingly apparent that they are not quite what they seem. His growing paranoia drives him to conduct his own investigation, uncovering unsettling details about the family next door. Working alongside a contact within the FBI, he pieces together a disturbing truth that builds towards a genuinely shocking and uncompromising finale.
Picture & Sound
The anamorphic transfer is solid, with sharp images and natural colour reproduction. Detail levels are strong throughout, particularly in the darker interior scenes. As the film is largely dialogue-driven there is limited use of the surround channels, but the Dolby Digital 5.1 mix remains effective.
Dialogue is clear and well balanced, while the musical score adds tension without overwhelming the quieter moments. When the action does erupt, the explosions carry enough impact to make their presence felt.
Overall
This is a tense and unsettling thriller that benefits greatly from strong performances by Jeff Bridges and Tim Robbins. The film steadily builds an atmosphere of suspicion and unease, culminating in an ending that is both unexpected and disturbing.
Unfortunately, this Region 2 release is severely lacking in supplementary material. While the Region 1 edition includes a director's commentary, here we are provided with nothing more than a cast biography booklet. Given the film's themes and controversial subject matter, a commentary track would have added considerable value.
As a film, it comes highly recommended for fans of intelligent, paranoia-driven thrillers. As a DVD package, however, it disappoints. Those with multi-region capability would be better served seeking out the Region 1 edition instead.
Special features
- Cast Biography Booklet
