Austin Powers International Man of Mystery (DVD)

Description

Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery features both widescreen and pan-and-scan versions of the film; however, the original theatrical aspect ration of 2.35:1 has been changed by director Jay Roach to a 2:1 aspect ratio, perhaps to better accommodate its widescreen enhancement. The commentary track allows Roach and Mike Myers to tell what is improvised and what is scripted in the film, specifically to point out the different inspirations and homages, and joke around some as well. The deleted scene menu features two original endings and five scenes that were either cut for time or because they were expendable. One of the original endings is particularly hilarious and at least two of the deleted scenes (“The Henchman’s Wife” and “Fendi Briefcase”) could have been left in the film. The “Spy Genre Retrospective” is disappointing, just a series of pages to read about the movies that inspired the film instead of a featurette. Meanwhile, the animated “Music to Shag To” sequence, a celebrity cameo menu, and the “Swedish-Made Penis Enlarger Pump” features aren’t exactly substantial but do add to the zany feel of the DVD. The theatrical trailer is also included. Austin Powers can’t compete with current special editions, but it is nonetheless a fun disc for an enjoyable film.