Nothing Like the Holidays [DVD] [2008]

Jodie Foster's humorous portrayal of an odd dysfunctional family coming together for Thanksgiving dinner should strike a chord with anyone who has ever weathered the holidays -- and survived. Home for the Holidays features a very nice 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen presentation that sports vivid colors, solid flesh tones, and even black levels. Although there is a small amount of grain and dirt in certain scenes, overall this is a very nice looking transfer from MGM. No edge enhancement or shimmer was spotted throughout the feature. The audio is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 (as well as Dolby 2.0 Surround in French) and sounds very good. Since this is a dialogue-driven film, surround effects were not aggressive, though there were moments when all speakers were engaged. Dialogue, effects, and Mark Isham's comedic score all shine clearly and concisely. Also included on this disc are French and Spanish subtitles. Much like Jodie Foster's directing debut Little Man Tate, Home for the Holidays includes a commentary track by the director. Jodie Foster tends to be very lively and talkative throughout this track, making it enjoyable and enlightening for the viewer. Also included on this disc is an original theatrical trailer for Home for the Holidays. This DVD may not be heavy in the supplements department, but it should be filling enough for any fan of disastrous family comedies.