Cat on a Hot Tin Roof [Deluxe Edition]

Warner Home Video has done well by Richard Brooks' Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), giving the movie a gloriously sharp and vivid transfer in its proper non-anamorphic aspect ratio (1.85:1). That would be enough by itself to recommend this DVD -- Paul Newman and Elizabeth Taylor look so stunning in their opening shots that the disc is like a massage to the eye, and cinematographer William H. Daniels' Oscar-nominated work has been lavished exceptional care across this entire disc. But the producers have also included a highly animated and informative commentary by Tennessee Williams and Elizabeth Taylor biographer Donald Spoto, which is a delight to listen to and every bit as entertaining as the movie itself. His work is worth the price of admission by itself, and makes this a disc that one will watch more than once on first opening it. Spoto is also on hand for the bonus featurette "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof: Playing Cat and Mouse," which also includes contributions from Drew Casper and Paul Newman biographer Eric Lax, and co-star Madeleine Sherwood. This is, like the commentary, a highly animated, engaging, and informative account of the movie's production, and well worth seeing. The original trailer is also present (letterboxed 1.85:1), looking in nearly as good shape as the film itself. The latter has also been given a generous 26 chapters. The disc opens automatically to a very easy to use multi-layered menu offering quick and simple access to all features.