The Life Of David Gale

Like the film, the DVD is a little convoluted, not in content - there is plenty in that department - but it's hardly user friendly. The selection process is annoyingly confusing, in that you don't know whether you've selected something (with a cross) or not (with a little square), or is it the other way around?

Still, this is a relatively minor gripe. All the hallmarks of a decent DVD are there, from the director's audio commentary to the making of the film to a short history lesson on the execution capital of America. In the Death And Texas featurette, we learn that since the reinstatement of the death penalty in 1976 there have been 290 executions in Texas, half of the whole of the US, 130 of which have been in the electric chair.

Alan Parker's interest in capital punishment is clear as he illustrates during his interviews with prison wardens, emphasizing their moral convictions and strict adherence to Texas law. Parker himself is strongly against it, but wanted to create a balanced approach in his work. Whether or not he succeeds is another issue, but it's clear he did his homework.

There is also particular commendation awarded to rookie screenwriter Charles Randolph, a philosophy academic who surprised Parker in his ability to create such a "taut, sharp, and beautifully constructed piece."

Input from the actors is fairly standard, patting the back of Parker and Randolph and discussing the intricacies of the plot without giving away the ending.

Other noteworthy artistic input comes from Parker's two sons, Jake and Alex, who composed the music.

The only other complaint is that the print is occasionally slightly edgy. At certain points, particularly during quick movements, there is a slight rippling effect in the background, which causes minor distortions.

Other than that, there's all the usual PR type entertainment, including trailers, DVD rom features and alternative poster concepts.