The King of Comedy [DVD] [1983]

Compatible with your television, streaming devices, computer, tablet, or smartphone; redeemable for watching movies, documentaries, sports, comedies and more; $50 value

Martin Scorsese's little seen but outstanding The King of Comedy finally makes it's way to DVD, which will surely please the director's fans. Though this disc could have been so much better, what is offered isn't too bad. The image, framed at 1.85:1 and anamorphic, isn't the best out there. It's certainly superior to the other video formats in the past, but still, the picture lacks real detail and the colors aren't particularly strong. Part of this is due to the visual style of the film, but also in the transfer used. What can be said for the sound? The English stereo Dolby Digital track lacks any significant punch but still suits this film fine. Dialogue is generally clear and distortion free, which is all that really would be hoped for. As for extras, the only one of significance is a featurette called "A Shot at the Top" which runs about 18 minutes long. It's made up with as many scenes from the movie as interviews with the only two participants, Scorsese and actress Sandra Bernhard. Also included are 33 images of behind the scene shots and straightforward stills from the film, a very effective theatrical trailer, and a less-effective Canadian TV spot. Finally, there is one deleted scene which is already covered in the featurette and a long version of "Jerry Langford's" (played by Jerry Lewis) full late show monologue, which is only so funny. A commentary on this dark comedy from Scorsese would have been a wonderful addition, but sadly isn't the case.