Anaconda

Columbia is sure enjoying its Superbit series of titles. Already there are several available, with much more on the way. For the uninitiated, a Superbit is a dual-layered DVD, devoted to nothing but the best picture and sound quality. Extras are sacrificed, but if presentation is more important to you, then these are the versions to get.

Filmed in Super-35, the 2.40:1 anamorphic picture has excellent colour fidelity, with brilliant Fleshtones, very deep, and pure blacks with superlative contrast. The print can be a bit grainy at times, but that's not the fault of the DVD. If you have an HDTV, then this will look awesome.

The soundtrack is where you'll find the most noticeable improvement. The Dolby 5.1 and, especially, the DTS 5.1 tracks, sound awesome, with constant use of surrounds, thumping .1LFE and ambient effects. Randy Edelman's tropical score sounds great, too. For those with DTS capabilities, then this DVD will give your system a great work out.

Like I said, there are no extras, but Superbits is all about presentation.