Reviewer's Rating 2 out of 5  
Blackball DVD (2003)

It may be another "undemanding, join-the-dots comedy", but Mel Smith's filmic rocket up the backside of the genteel world of lawn bowls does co-star Johnny Vegas, which will prove a draw for many to explore this movie. Just don't expect much from the DVD, which is at least being pitched at a low price to reflect the lack of added value.

Mel Eats The Mike

Either director Mel Smith's commentary was recorded by amateurs or, as we suspect, he sat far too close to the microphone, because it's an uncomfortable listening experience. Apart from hearing every delightful noise his mouth has to offer, it's a distorted recording. Combined with the fact that it's not very interesting and you've got a pretty lousy package on offer. You will pick up background story on the real character who inspired the film, plus Mel discusses how various scenes were edited.

Snippets Fit For The Bin

Did that last bit sound a bit desperate? Like we were trying to find something good to say? Well, this is where the charity runs out, because the cast and crew interviews on this DVD are nothing short of useless. "My character is called... and he does..." and so it goes on. Totally useless and boring little snippets of interviews are all you get. Even Johnny Vegas is rendered boring. This is not a DVD that's going to bowl you over.

EXTRA FEATURES

  • Audio commentary with director Mel Smith
  • Cast and crew interviews
  • Theatrical trailer
  • TV spots
  • Radio spots
  • This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.

    Technical Information

    REGION SOUND MENUS RATIO
    2 Dolby Digital 5.1 Animated, with music 1.85:1 (anamorphic)
    CHAPTERS SUBTITLES AUDIO TRACKS
    20 English English
    CAPTIONS EXTRAS SUBTITLES CERTIFICATE
    English None of the special features come with subtitles 15

    End Credits

    Director: Mel Smith

    Writer: Tim Firth

    Stars: Paul Kaye, Johnny Vegas, James Cromwell, Alice Evans, Vince Vaughn, Bernard Cribbins

    Genre: Comedy

    Length: 97 minutes

    Cinema: 05 September 2003

    DVD: 16 February 2004

    Country: UK