'Splendor' quite a splendid DVD

One of the most underrated but brilliant films of this past year, "American Splendor" is finally on DVD.\n"Splendor" centers on underground comic-book writer Harvey Pekar (played by the awesome Paul Giamatti), a grumbling, self-loathing everyman who is crass and blunt, but at the same time strangely charming. The film segments the chunk of Harvey's life where he creates a comic book that isn't about superheroes or talking animals, but rather exposes his everyday life. All the supporting characters in his books are his friends and co-workers, many of whom are introduced in the film.\nStylistically, "American Splendor" employs an excellent mix of reality and fiction by interspersing scenes of the real Harvey Pekar helping make the film, along with his voice-over that narrates the action onscreen. There is one interesting moment where Giamatti finishes a scene in the film, and the camera pulls back to see Pekar interacting with Giamatti on set. Ballsy, but highly effective.\nThe DVD isn't fully loaded, but has a nice dose of extras. There's a group commentary by Pekar, the directors and cast, and also a neat behind-the-scenes featurette that is short, but entertaining as it shows the real Harvey Pekar dealing with his newfound fame.\n"American Splendor" is recommended to anyone looking for an offbeat comedy with some unexpected soul.