The Last Station

Optimum have put together a solid set of extras for this DVD release. The director's interview, at 38 minutes, is longer than most of its type and, as a result more in depth. Although it is a little rambly in places, there is plenty of interesting information here, both about the genesis of the project - including the fact that Meryl Streep and Anthony Hopkins were originally lined up for the lead roles - and the technical aspects of bringing the film to the screen.

Although the film was ultimately shot in Germany, Michael Hoffman's comments about scouting around Russia are some of the most interesting here and he also has perceptive things to say about the casting of an older actor, Christopher Plummer, in the central role. At 80 years old, he quite rightly observes that, at just two years younger than Tolstoy himself is in the film, he brings precisely the right sort of energy and experience to the role.

The second extra, the 40-some minute Conversations On The Last Station, is more of a glossy affair, intercut with snippets from the film. But all the main cast and crew are involved, offering a good insight into what drew them to the project and what they like most about the finished product. James McAvoy proves to be the most lively interviewee, with his interview encompassing everything from the similarities of the script to Checkov to the ability to birdwatch in Germany.

The film is fully subtitled, although it's a shame that neither extra is. The package is completed with a trailer for the film and a trailer reel.