Rambo: First Blood, Part 2 [Ultimate Edition] [DVD] [1985]

John Rambo is back for the third time on DVD with this Ultimate Edition of Rambo: First Blood Part II from Lion's Gate Home Entertainment. Only George P. Cosmatos' commentary has been carried over from Artisan's previous discs, though that doesn't mean that this disc isn't packed. In probably one of the most overblown bonuses since the Blair Witch 2's "The Secret of Esrever" DVD feature, Rambo has been graced with a "Survival Mode" feature that is every bit as worthless as it sounds. Using branching technology, the disc's producers have outfitted the DVD to give the viewer access to special character information, map recreations, and some rather ridiculous animations that serve no purpose other than to just be "flashy." The fact that they have chosen a name like "Survival Mode" to represent all of these features is fitting, since watching the film like this really is like a game of endurance for people with very little time on their hands. Other than the uneven group of bonus features, the 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen picture sports fine contrast and details, while the 5.1 Dolby Digital audio sports a exemplary mix that explodes with action and does a good job at transporting the viewer into the jungle setting. As far as the commentary goes, Cosmatos might be a little too technical at times, but his knowledge of the stunt work is a big bonus that keeps the track interesting throughout. When all is said and done, the disc is worth purchasing for first-time buyers of the series, but should be of no use to those who own the previous superior discs. This DVD is also available in a three-disc Collector's Set of all three Ultimate Edition discs of this blockbuster series.