Chopper

“I never killed anyone that didn't deserve it,” claims Mark “Chopper” Read, a real-life Aussie criminal whose sensationalized exploits not only became fodder for Down Under tabloids but served as the subject of his own book, How to Shoot Friends and Influence People. In a knockout performance, sketch-comedy TV actor Eric Bana ferociously captures the vulgar, twisted, self-mythologizing Read in all his undeniably charismatic glory in this critically acclaimed bio-pic. Off-putting in its blood and gore, Chopper gives Reservoir Dogs a run for its money, especially in a scene where Read willingly has his ears sliced off in order to get a prison transfer. The DVD boasts impressive picture and digital sound quality, with extras including separate fascinating commentaries by Read and director Andrew Dominik, a perversely funny interview with Read, and some superfluous deleted scenes. Recommended, with reservations. (T. Rich)