HURRICANE, THE: DVD

For me, the DVD highlight is a very special feature of 10 deleted scenes, which are individually introduced by eloquent, intelligent director Norman Jewison. Jewison not only explains why the scenes were cut, but sets up each one, leading us even deeper into our commitment with the characters. He explains how the structure and rhythm are the ultimate test of whether the audiences believe that what is happening on screen is real. Jewison insists in having the final cut in his contract these days, and although the initial film was over three hours long, the final version runs 140 minutes. (The only film he made over three hours is Fiddler on the Roof, he remembers.) Perhaps one of the most important scenes deleted is the one in which the cab driver who drove Hurricane that fateful night is found; the reasons for this scene's omission is fascinating.

In an on-location featurette, Jewison reflects on the social condition and how this film is a literature of this generation. We hear from the real Lesra Martin, the real Rubin Carter (who can't stop smiling), as well as a very fit Denzel Washington who talks about the punishing training and the fighting sequences.

In the director's commentary we learn about the long gestation period for this film and the importance of the music. What an impact Bob Dylan's jolting lyrics has had on us all and here the music wails at the injustice and describes joy, hope and despair in a subdued, bluesy jazz score. Jewison is a mine of information; anyone interested in this film, or film making generally, will get a lot out of this. The decisions big and small, the mood, the actors, the cinematography, the music – there's a banquet to consume here. The Hurricane is an engrossing experience and one that certainly moved me: the DVD extra features enhance that enjoyment and involvement."
Louise Keller

Review Published: September 7, 2000

________________

We gratefully acknowledge the complimentary use of a DVD player from Philips.< p>

________________