The Wachowski Sisters' directorial debut has been given solid treatment with Olive's DVD/Blu-ray of one of the '90's best Noir films. Taking a new twist on the classic genre, ex-con handywoman Corky (Gina Gershon) takes a job fixing up a Chicago apartment which happens to be next door to a vicious Mafioso, Caesar (played excellently by Joe Pantoliano) and his alluring mole named Violet who's played by Jennifer Tilly. After beginning an affair with Violet they wind up setting into motion an elaborate plan to steal the money Caesar is holding for the local crime family all the while mob bodies start to pile up at Caesar's feet. In a genre that rarely if ever has likeable LGBT characters this film is a breath of fresh air and will probably go down as a classic in the genre and gay cinema. Wachowskis' directing skills were already at the top of their charts here with some very creative camerawork and moody cinematography plus the film's leather-focused wardrobe accentuates the mood as well. As I said the transfer is pretty solid whichever format you go with. I personally just picked up the DVD version for this one given the lack of special features and was not disappointed. Despite housing two cuts on the same disc the picture quality never falters, the mood and atmosphere clearer than ever before with no excessive tinkering to be noticed. Just a solid, filmic presentation and possibly the best the film will get on U.S. shores. The sound quality is very solid too, both the DVD and Blu-ray are reported to have the same Stereo 2.0 track which actually deliver the film's heart-pumping sound and score quite effectively. Given Olive Film's M.O. this was probably what the film was originally shot with given it was lower-budget Indie film. Overseas releases do have 5.1 mixes on their releases but judging from screencaps online I notice the picture appears to be more cropped and zoomed in on those releases than the American one is. The only true flaw is of course the lack of bonus features even the commentary on the old letterboxed DVD from back in the day. I'm not sure why it was left off but this was as stated before really my only knock against this release. On the plus side of this though the lack of bonus features does leave more disc space to the transfer to breathe without unnecessary compression issues. Overall if you are fan of Noir, any of the stars (especially Gershon or Pantoliano who are both at the top of their games here), The Wachowskis' or are looking for a more gay-friendly film in a genre other than Comedies or Coming-of-Age Dramas then this is an excellent film to check into. This film was destined for cult status and has probably already achieved it. As usual, fabulous and highly recommended.

I saw this back in the 90s when it was first released and Ive loved it ever since. So happy Kino has finally given this the Bluray treatment. I just wish it was in 5.1 surround.

No problems with the purchase. Discs good condition.

First movie from the creators of the MATRIX franchise. Well shot & an excellent blend of thriller/crime/noir genres. Extras are the real boon.

One of my all time favorite movies. The blu ray also boasts a picture perfect picture with incredible sound. Truly a cult classic. Best buy also had the cheapest price around. Highly recommended.