Plot: What’s it about?
Bastian (Barret Oliver) is a young man with troubles, as he is always pushed around bullies and by turn, always looking for an escape. In one instance, he dodges the toughs by ducking into a bookstore, where a certain volume catches his attention. The book is large and bound in thick leather, it just seemed like an important book of some kind. The owner of the shop informs him that the book has magical powers and in truth, Bastia.n would be better off with another choice. He insists that once someone begins to read this magical book, they never want to put it aside, as they’re sucked into the world found in the texts inside. But Bastian wants to discover the truth about the book, so he borrows it and heads into the school’s attic, where he can read in peace and of course, avoid the bullies. Little does he know the book tells an epic tale of magic, dragons, warriors, elves, and all sorts of other mystical elements. This book is like no other he has ever read, as he seems to become part of the story, which shocks him. The road to the end of the story is a long one and is surrounded by danger, but can Bastian somehow see this through?
As one of the movies I watched often as a youth, The NeverEnding Story holds a special place in my collection, without a doubt. I spent many an afternoon just sitting back and watching this picture, never tiring of the adventures within. I sort of assumed it would grow old at some point, but even as I have gotten older, it has remained as magical as ever. So what is it about this movie that stands up to time so well? I couldn’t tell you exactly what it is, but I know for me, the magic, fantasy, and adventure all combine to provide a fun, memorable experience. As with most fantasy films, The NeverEnding Story has elements of the supernatural and beyond, such as massive creatures, princesses, and all sorts of mystical places to pass through. But it also has some roots in the real world, which I think enhances the movie, as it gives us more perspective and allows for a plug to kids, to let them know how fun reading can be. I am thrilled to own this movie on DVD in full scope widescreen and even with minimal supplements, the price is right to purchase. I recommend this film to people of all ages, to anyone who wants to take some fantastic adventures.
Video: How does it look?
The NeverEnding Story is presented in a 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer, with a butchered pan & scan edition on the disc’s flip side. I am glad Warner came to its senses and included a widescreen option here, so let’s hope they continue this common sense with applicable future releases. I figured this would be a good visual effort, but I was stunned by the finished product here, to be sure. The print used looks cleaner than ever before, aside from a couple grainy shots, due to the technical limits of the time, not this transfer. The colors are rich and true, while black levels look accurate and consistent also. In short, this new widescreen transfer is the best this film has ever looked on home video by a landslide, terrific work from Warner here.
Audio: How does it sound?
I had limited expectations here, even with some solid audio potential, but I was pleased with the end results. The surrounds are used here and there, in an effort to spice up the experience, but in the end, this is a pretty tame mix. But as the material seems to be well handled, I have no complaints and I doubt others will, as it just sounds good. I said good, not great, but the music is clean, sound effects are on the mark, and dialogue is crisp and never falters in the least. It won’t win any awards, but I think fans will be pleased. This disc also houses a French language option, as well as subtitles in English, Spanish, and French.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes text notes & trivia on the book & characters, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer.
