Plot: What’s it about?
Ellena Roberts (Jenna Elfman) found a man who she could be with, someone she could trust in and plan a future with. At an airport, she bumped into a man named David Stillman (Sam Robards) and the sparks flew right from the start. He was a man of means, a neurosurgeon with a busy practice and she made an instant connection with this new man. What could have been a brief round of chitchat turned into a night of conversation, from a taxi cab to a talkative dining session. Ellena was sure this man could be the one, the man she could marry and have a family with. The situation takes a turn for the romantic side when the two venture into the bedroom and soon enough, clothes are removed and sexual hjinks ensue. Stillman insists the night wasn’t impulse and wants to have a real relationship, which is great news to Roberts. This story seems like magic, but Ellena’s tale is not the same one told by Stillman. She was arrested on charges of harassment, as Stillman denies all claims of the encounter. Instead, he tells authorities she is insane and refuses to leave him alone, which makes his entire family seem unsafe. But is Ellena insane as Stillman claims, or is the truth being buried by this married man?
The roster of cable channels is loaded with specific channels, like The Sci/Fi Channel, The Cartoon Network, and of course, Lifetime. The estrogen fueled Lifetime has been a cable staple for a long while now, offering talk shows, reality shows, and old sitcom favorites, but the channel is best known for its line of Lifetime Original Movies. These films have become the afterschool special of this modern age, an even mixture of cautionary tales and warm, fuzzy tales. So some of the movies make us cry, while others make us cry, then be overcome with hope and happiness. Now Lifetime has its own DVD label, so those original movies can be seen at will. Obsessed is one of the first films to be released on Lifetime’s label and falls into the cautionary tale section, so if you want warm and fuzzy, hard cheese. Jenna Elfman is best known for her comedic work, mostly her television presence, but here she takes on a more dramatic side. The film hinges on her performance and in the end, Elfman proves she has some chops. Her role here is memorable and well played, thanks perhaps to John Badham’s solid direction. Elfman is able to push Obsessed a notch above the usual Lifetime fodder, without stooping to sheer camp. I wouldn’t call this a great movie, even by made for television levels, but Obsessed does warrant a rental to those interested.
Video: How does it look?
Obsessed is presented in full frame, as intended. This movie was shown in 2002, so I expected a solid, if not great looking visual treatment. The print shows no real blemishes to speak of, even the darkest of scenes look solid and on the mark. The colors have a grim, often understated appearance and that’s as intended, while flesh tones seem natural at all times. No issues with contrast either, as black levels are smooth and refined, without fail. All in all, a superb visual presentation in all respects and one that should satisfy fans.
Audio: How does it sound?
This release uses the original stereo mix, which means the sound is adequate but lacks punch of any kind. The music comes through quite well though and sounds rich and well placed within the mix. When effects do emerge they sound good, but without the full surround format they seem hollow and limited. The dialogue sounds terrific though and shows no volume or separation inconsistencies. This is a movie from Lifetime after all, so if you were expecting any kind of dynamic audio, please pass over whatever you’re smoking, ok? This disc also includes a Spanish language track, as well as subtitles in English and Spanish.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes some behind the scenes interviews. A commentary track with Elfman would have been excellent, but no such luck.
