Timeless tale with modern bonuses

O - R\nStarring: Mekhi Phifer, Josh Hartnett, Julia Stiles\nDirected by: Tim Blake Nelson\nI think it is probably every writer's hope that they will compose at least one piece that every generation will be able to relate to. William Shakespeare has written several and "Othello" is no exception. If you are looking to fill your night with a story of love, deception and death without the cheesy aftertaste, you might want to consider tossing "O" in your DVD player.\nAlthough I wished I could have seen this movie in the theaters, it was almost as good at home. Julia Stiles, Josh Hartnett, Mekhi Phifer, Martin Sheen, Andrew Keegan and Elden Henson all delivered stellar performances. The necessary chemistry was there between the cast members, and in the context of today's high school life the story was actually believable. I think Shakespeare would have been very proud to see this if he were alive today.\nThe extra material included in the package was a welcome addition to the film. The second disk contained the first film version of "Othello," which was a silent film that came out in 1922. Although I did not have the patience to sit through the cuts back and forth from text to action, it was still interesting to watch. They might actually want to add a disclaimer to the box, telling people to watch this version before they see "O," so they can get a better idea of where the story is coming from. \nThe cast interviews were probably my least favorite part of the bonus disc. They all seemed forced and the questions seemed to be leading them on the path to anti-drug advocacy. The film contained drug use and not just a little mary jane. There were some serious steroids and cocaine that passed through the hands of the lead characters. Each cast member and director Tim Blake Nelson were asked about the drug use in the film. All of them of course responded in typical public relations manner. Now I am not saying I disagree with their viewpoints, but I found it interesting that the question about the use of drugs in the film was the only question common to all of the interviews.\nMy favorite part of the bonus disc was the explanation of the basketball shots. The director of photography explained his unorthodox methods for shooting these scenes which are usually shot stereotypically. It is always nice to know what is going on in the minds of the people who are in control of the cameras.\nSo if you want a real film, one with a lot of grit and absolutely no cheese, I would recommend taking a look at this one. And don't forget the second disc -- take your time with it and take a look at everything on it. This is one of those movies that goes beyond simple entertainment.\n

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