The end of his life was not without its share of irony, but the movie's momentum is lost by that point and the segue to the end credits would probably work a lot better if Bardem had been allowed a few extra tries at the final bit of voiceover narration. Even so, the film's strengths are much greater than its weaknesses, and it is a fascinating look at a culture not often seen in other American films. New Line Home Video's reputation for quality DVD transfers will not be disputed by this disc. The movie has intentionally varied photography, with some shots looking faded and grainy while other look vivid and striking. The contrast is well replicated here.
Black level is deep and the image is sharply focused.
Three soundtracks are available. The English 5.1 and 2.0 tracks are largely similar. The movie does not have a very aggressive surround presence, but it is accurately conveyed. Activity in the rear speakers is confined mainly to music and ambient sounds. The quality of the music recordings is even more varied than the photography, but the best pieces come across as richly enveloping with satisfying bass extension.