Plot: What’s it about?
Jim Hawkins (Toby Regbo) lives a quiet life with his widowed mother, but he has a free spirit and longs for an adventure on the high seas. When he stumbles upon a treasure map, he confides in a family friend and soon enough, a small crew is assembled to hunt down the promised loot. Jim also befriends an eccentric cook named Long John Silver (Eddie Izzard), who makes sure he is also included in the adventure. As the ship Hispaniola travels the dangerous seas toward treasure, all kinds of trouble soon begin to surface on the vessel. As time passes, tensions mount and hidden intentions soon threaten to be exposed. Jim and Silver find themselves at odds, only to reconcile, then find conflict once again. With the treasure on the horizon, who will manage to claim the loot and who will survive this treacherous adventure?
Video: How does it look?
Treasure Island is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The mini-series looks good here, with a clean and sharp presentation. I found detail to be solid, but of course not on the same level as an HD release. But detail is good for a DVD and the lush visuals come across well. The colors are bright and natural, while contrast is stark and consistent. As far as DVD goes, this transfer looks quite good.
Audio: How does it sound?
A Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack is offered, which sounds good. The mini-series isn’t as action driven as some, so the surrounds aren’t alive at all times. But in the moments where the action kicks in or the open sea needs to come alive, the surrounds oblige and provide solid presence. The music also add some life to the mix, while dialogue remains clear and clear. This disc also includes English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc also includes audio comments from Eddie Izzard and director Steve Barron, an assortment of cast interviews, several promotional featurettes, and the mini-series’ trailer.
