Plot: What’s it about?
I know a lot of people dislike her, but even they have to admit, Britney Spears has become a global phenomenon. Of course, many bands have been in the same boat, such as The Beatles, The Spice Girls, and *N Synch, but few have stood the test of time. But like those other bands, Britney has a massive promotions team to ensure she gets airtime and such, so I doubt we’ll her leave any time soon. In this new release, Britney’s live performance in Hawaii is the focus, but we’re also shown the other sides of Miss Spears. I found the live performances to be energetic and very well done, even if the songs weren’t always right up my alley. So her skills as a dancer/live performer are showcased well there, but what about her music videos, comedic skills, and of course, the real Britney Spears? In some interviews, she discusses her take on life and stardom, which is good for fans, if a little pretentious at times. This program also provides the skits from her stint as host on Saturday Night Live and I have to say, I found her to be hilarious in these. Her two musical numbers from the show can also be viewed here, as well as a selection of her music videos.
Ok, I admit it. I spun this disc just to see the SNL skits, but come on, the one with Woodrow is downright classic. She milks her pristine persona to sheer perfection in these pieces, which makes me think she might not be the paper thin human people claim her to be. In any case, she impressed me in these SNL numbers and as far as her music, it is better than most of the other uninspired lot out there. I’d rather see a young woman sing positive songs than some gangster rapper going on about killing his girlfriend. So she isn’t a musical genius, name me on modern performer is, if you can. This disc is very well put together and offers a terrific package for fans of Britney’s music. The musical numbers seem to be the main draw here, but the bonus interviews, SNL skits, and videos included also add a lot of value. So if you like her and want to see some more of her, then this disc packs a lot of bang for the buck, so don’t hesitate to pick it up. And if you don’t like her, then by all means, pass this release and review on by, thanks.
Video: How does it look?
The bulk of this material was made for television and is shown full frame, but some of the videos are presented in non anamorphic widescreen. All look as good as you could ask for, with no real problems I could detect. Of course, the interviews, SNL skits, and performance footage don’t look like film, but they do seem well done and that is what counts here. The videos show more refinement and detail, but the lack of anamorphic enhancement causes some minor shimmering and the like. But the colors and contrast seem balanced at all times here, no real complaints to be made, in the videos or other sections. If you thought this material looked good on television, then you’ll be pleased here, I am sure.
Audio: How does it sound?
This disc uses a Dolby Digital 5.1 track, which allows the music to be full and very immersive at all times. I’ve heard a lot of live performance tracks and this is a very good one, well mixed and the surrounds are used to terrific ends. I doubt this music has ever sounded this good, I was very impressed. The non musical sequences sound good also, though of course, they don’t pack the same punch in the end. But the elements sound more than solid throughout the presentation, so I don’t think anyone will be let down here. This disc also includes a 2.0 stereo track and English subtitles, which are always a welcome inclusion.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes a selection of still photos, as well as a jukebox feature, which allows you create a playlist of the music videos/live performances from the program.
