Out of Africa

Simply one of the most beautiful films ever made, Robert Redford and Meryl Streep topline this turn-of-the-century tale about a strong-willed woman who tries to establish a farm in Africa, and the handsome white hunter with whom she falls hopelessly in love. Based on the autobiographical stories of Isak Dinesen, this 7 Academy Award-winning 1985 film is the definition of epic romance, making The English Patient seem like a TV soap by comparison. Universal has our deep gratitude for doing this highly anticipated DVD release up right, with a stunning video transfer and a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix that shows off John Barry's incomparable score, and features that include an audio commentary by Sydney Pollack and the 50-minute documentary "Song of Africa." Our highest recommendation, and not to be missed. Editor's Choice. (S. C. Sickles)[Blu-ray Review—Apr. 27, 2010—Universal, 161 min., PG, $26.98—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 1985's Out of Africa sports a solid transfer with DTS-HD 5.1 sound. Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Sydney Pollack, a “Song of Africa” making-of featurette (50 min.), deleted scenes (15 min.), production notes, cast and crew bios, trailers, and the BD-Live function. Also included on this combo flipper disc is a bonus DVD version of the film. Bottom line: a welcome Blu-ray debut for this multiple Oscar winner.][Blu-ray Review—Mar. 13, 2012—Universal, 161 min., PG, $39.98—Making its second appearance on Blu-ray, 1985's Out of Africa boasts a great transfer with DTS-HD 5.1 sound. Housed in a digi-book package, Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Sydney Pollack, “A Song of Africa” making-of documentary (73 min.), deleted scenes (15 min.), a bonus DVD copy of the film with text production notes, the BD-Live function, and trailers. Bottom line: for those who don't already own this on Blu-ray, this Blu-ray/DVD two-fer of the Oscar-winning film is highly recommended.]