Fantasia 2000 [DVD] [1999]

Generously packaged with an array of features full of background, technical information, and production detail, Disney's Fantasia 2000 DVD will please animation enthusiasts and children alike. Originally released in the IMAX format, the picture retains the striking colors and crisp graphics with a pristine 1.85:1 widescreen transfer. The lovely classical score shines in any of the variety of sound choices: DTS 5.1 Surround Sound, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, THX-Certified including THX Optimode. The behind-the-scenes information begins with "The Making of Fantasia 2000," a 48-minute documentary with the entire production team discussing the inspiration, conception, and the long road to completion. In the first "Audio Commentary," executive producer Roy E. Disney (Walt's nephew), conductor James Levine, and producer Don Ernst discuss how they strove to retain the magic of the original Fantasia, while also staying true to Walt's original idea of showing the most advanced animation. The second commentary allows the individual segment directors and art directors to specifically address their work, where CGI, watercolor, or hand-drawn animation was used. Animation fans will also relish the inclusion of two animated shorts, Melody and Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom (an Academy Award winner in 1953). Though the extra features are directed more to adults than children, the package is a fine example of how far "cartoons" have come.