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By
NICK ZEGARAC
While filming Alan Parker's "Evita" stirred up a heap of controversy in Argentina, where it seems the population wasn't exactly keen on having their former first lady represented in the embodiment of an American pop star (Madonna). But no one could have done the role more justice. Together with Antonio Bandaras and Jonathan Price, the screen ignites with hot music, cool numbers and "that little something extra" that is so essential in making pop-operas like "Evita" work on the screen. The film follows the rise of Eva Eduardo -- a waif cum prostitute cum radio star, whose connections to politicians and generals eventually lead her to becoming President Peron's latest flame and later, his wife. The Andrew Lloyd Webber score continues to pull scathing punches as it transforms the cinematic landscape into a seething cesspool of song and dance. A new song, "You Must Love Me" that Madonna wrote, really gives the latter half of the film poignancy.
Unfortunately, the DVD transfer is just bare bones and a shade above my usual vote for "bad." Though widescreen, this movie is not enhanced for 16X9 televisions. Aliasing, shimmering and edge enhancement are present throughout. Colors are slightly muddy and darker scenes really suffer from a loss of fine detail. The 5.1 audio is explosive, giving full range to Andrew Lloyd Webber's classy classic score. There are no extras. None!
A warning: This is not a Hollywood musical -- it's a rock opera. In other words very little is said on the screen that is not accompanied by a full orchestra arrangement. If this is your cup of tea then Madonna does Eva Peron proud. She looks, acts and sings the part to perfection.
"Evita" does justice to its Broadway heritage. It's powerful and impressive entertainment. But the DVD quality is only so-so. |
