My Fellow Americans (DVD), Warner Home Video, Comedy

Warner's original DVD presents My Fellow Americans in standard-definition 4:3 fullscreen rather than its original 1.85:1 theatrical ratio. Reframing the image for older televisions sacrifices picture information at the sides, making this the disc's most significant limitation. The transfer is serviceable but dated. Detail is relatively soft, colors are somewhat subdued, and contrast lacks the depth of better DVD presentations. Although watchable, the image offers little visual refinement. A later widescreen edition is preferable for viewers who value the intended presentation. The packaging advertises Dolby Digital 5.1, although the available information does not establish how actively the surround channels are used. Given the film's emphasis on dialogue and comedy, clear conversations and well-balanced music matter more than aggressive effects. Occasional action provides opportunities for a livelier soundfield, but this is not material that demands a spectacular multichannel presentation. English, French, and Spanish language and subtitle options are listed on the case. Extras include a blooper reel, theatrical trailer, production notes, interactive menus, and scene selection. The selection is modest, but the outtakes are a welcome addition for a comedy built around such seasoned performers. No substantial retrospective is included. My Fellow Americans is a lively, thoroughly enjoyable political comedy powered by the terrific chemistry of Jack Lemmon and James Garner. Playing rival former presidents forced to work together while fleeing a conspiracy, the two trade insults and wisecracks with impeccable timing. Dan Aykroyd, Lauren Bacall, John Heard, and Wilford Brimley add considerable appeal to the supporting cast. The plot is deliberately far-fetched, but the brisk pacing, playful political satire, and infectious performances make it easy to forgive. The film gets considerable mileage from the clash between its two very different presidential personalities, and its seasoned stars give even the broadest jokes an appealing touch of credibility. This is lighthearted entertainment that succeeds because its performers know precisely how to deliver a punch line. Warner's early DVD is less impressive than the film itself. Its fullscreen framing compromises the original composition, and the picture is merely adequate. The advertised Dolby Digital soundtrack and small collection of extras offer some value, but neither offsets the compromised video presentation. The film earns an enthusiastic recommendation for its humor and outstanding cast. Collectors, however, should favor a widescreen DVD edition over this fullscreen release.

This is a funny and enjoyable movie.

it is onr of my favorite movies

Good watch

Great movie!

This is one of my very favorite movies. If you want to laugh, please watch this movie and you will probably do as I did and purchase it so you can watch it when you need a good laugh. It is well worth the nominal price. A great value!!!

I'm a little bit disappointed because my package came damaged and a movie was loose Inside the Box had a little scratch on it but that's okay and I call walmart.com reported my complaint but since I cannot get replacement I request a refund the way I could order another one and hopefully this time he doesn't come damage I'm a movie collector and I would love to have a movie in great condition without any broken case or the movie scratch

Exactly as described

This is an older movie but very funny. You can not go wrong with James Garner and Jack Lemmon. A political comedy that has reminders of the economic issues going on now.

underrated movie.