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Apr 21, 2009 Web Exclusive By Nick Hyman

Nickelodeon/The Last Picture Show: Director’s Choice DVD (Sony)

Director Peter Bogdanovich is someone who showed a lot of promise in the ’70s only to have his talent/relevancy disappear in the ’80s (with the notable exception of Mask). He must have a lot of time on his hands now that he’s no longer guest-starring on The Sopranos, as he’s released director’s cuts of two of his films. One is a stone cold classic (The Last Picture Show) and the other (Nickelodeon) is maybe best left forgotten.

The Texas-based The Last Picture Show is a coming-of-age film based on Larry McMurtry’s novel and features an out-of-control good ensemble cast. Jeff Bridges, Cybil Shepherd, Timothy Bottoms, Ben Johnson, and Cloris Leachman all deliver all-time great performances. This new DVD includes an extended director’s cut, a new interview with Bogdanovich, a new commentary with Bogdanovich, and a previously released featurette and a documentary on the re-release of the film and a look back.

Nickelodeon is finally being released on DVD in a new director’s cut that includes two version of the film—the black and white version the director prefers as well as the released color version. This tribute to the early days of cinema and filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille stars frequent Bogdanovich collaborator Ryan O’Neal (who previously rocked it in their much better Paper Moon in ’73), Burt Reynolds, Tatum O’Neal, John Ritter, and a host of other recognizable character actors. Unfortunately, the film is too precious and filled with too much over the top with slapstick humor to leave much of an impact. The production is solid, but the characters aren’t particularly interesting, which makes the film laborious to get through. Also included is a commentary from Bogdanovich on the director’s cut. All in all, the double feature set is essential for Bogdanovich fans and a nice release for cinephiles. (www.SonyPictures.com)

Author rating: 7/10