Guys And Dolls

DVD Rating: ***

Reviewed by: Leanne McGrath

Read Leanne McGrath's film review of Guys And Dolls
Guys And Dolls
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There are not many extras on this special edition disc of the classic musical, but those present are enjoyable enough for fans of the show and first time viewers.

Two 30-minute Making Of documentaries detail the film's stage roots and its transformation into a Hollywood hit and features nice trips down memory lane from Frank Loesser's wife, son and daughter, choreographer Michael Kidd, Samuel Goldwyn's son Sam Jnr, Joseph Mankiewicz's son Tom and Goldwyn biographer A Scott Berg.

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Tales From Behind The Scenes include Sinatra's dislike of Brando and how he desperately wanted the part of Sky over the non-singer. Apparently, Brando was a terrible prankster and would deliberately fluff lines so they would have to keep re-shooting, something one-take-and-I'm-gone Frankie loathed.

Other anecdotes include how Stubby Kaye is said to have been ordered not to drop under 260lbs and how Goldwyn ditched one of the stage show's most popular tracks, A Bushel And A Peck, as he didn't like it, demanding Loesser write a replacement - the catchy, feline-inspired Pet Me Poppa.

A series of separate short interviews are also included, offering information on Goldwyn, Brando's dance lessons and staging Sinatra's big number Adelaide, which was written especially for him to compensate for his lack of songs.

The movie is broken up into 12 chapters in the scene selection menu, which is a bit miserly considering the length of the run time, while an extensive photo gallery offers on-set, behind the scenes and publicity shots.

Those looking for a singalong will enjoy the interactive menu, which allows you to play just the songs, although the superb Adelaide's Lament, Pet Me Poppa and Take Back Your Mink are omitted and sadly missed.

Overall, you don't get the usual extensive extras you get with more recent movies and there is no first-hand material from any of the stars, but fans will enjoy it.

Reviewed on: 09 Jun 2006
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Guys And Dolls packshot
The Broadway musical of crooks, gamblers and a Sally Army sergeant, called Sarah.
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Product Code: MDR51341SE

Region: 2

Ratio: 2.55:1 Anamorphic Wide Screen

Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1

Extras: From Stage To Screen documentary; The Goldwyn Touch documentary; Interviews; Photo Gallery; Musical Performances


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