Ludwig

The extras may not look up to much, but don't let that fool you. They are as epic as the film itself, overflowing with information even the most hardened DVD buff would find hard not to like.

The appetiser is a documentary on director Luchino Visconti's life, which was almost as lavish and eccentric as King Ludwig's. There are interviews with Europe's leading actors at the time. Even the legendary Burt Lancaster (The Leopard) hailed him as the best director he has ever worked for.

The meat in this sandwich is The Perfume Of A Primrose, which discusses the life of Silvana Mangano, one of the most beautiful women in the world at the time. The former Miss Rome loved being the object of man's desire, but was controlled by a manipulative husband.

The grand finale is Italian Portraits: Suso Cecchi D'Amico, co-screenwriter of Ludwig, who was introduced to the world of cinema at an early age by her father.

The menu system is incredibly simplistic and easy to navigate, with classical music as the score.

Overall this is a professional effort and should be a worthy edition to any lover of foreign cinema.