For starters, the collectible 8-page booklet is filled with quite a few facts and the background on stigmata. For the uninformed, stigmata are "inexplicable bleeding from fresh wounds that appear without warning..." Stigmata are an honor, a blessing put upon only those most deserving and most devout of all Catholics. The first case recorded is that of St Francis of Assisi of the 13th century (where the director got the name Frankie for Arquette's character), and there have been over 300 documented cases of it - most women (90% according to said booklet). Stigmata continues to this day - including the US - drawing close scrutiny by the Vatican, who investigates all matters concerning miracles (of which stigmata are).

That brings us to the plot of the movie. Frankie Paige (Arquette) has come into the possession of a rosary belonging to a recently deceased priest thousands of miles away, and starts displaying stigmata - only she's a non-believer (and lives quite the deviant lifestyle). While riding home on the subway, she suffers an attack - huge gashes are cut into her back by an unseen attacker. A priest on the bus thinks that it might be the stigmata, and contacts the Vatican. Byrne plays the Vatican investigator, sent out by the cardinal (Pryce, from Tomorrow Never Dies) to investigate the incident and unravel the truth....

The DVD:
The Picture:
The anamorphic transfer is very well done, with virtually no artifacts, defects or grain; however, at times the picture does seem grainy - that's intentional. The colors used for the movie are excellent.

The Sound:
The audio is quite good in the movie, making full use of the surround speakers. The sound is effective and adds to the atmosphere of the movie.

The Extras:
This is a full-fledged special edition from MGM. It contains: a directory's commentary which is insightful, although not terribly exciting; 4 or 5 deleted scenes including the alternate ending; a music video by Natalie Imbruglia; the trailer; and the aforementioned insightful collectors booklet. The deleted scenes don't add much to the movie, except some extra skin on Arquette's part, but like the alternate ending, they're nice to have and view. Also, its worth mentioning that when playing the film, you can choose to play it with the theatrical ending, or the alternate ending.

Summary:
Interesting, although a tad on the bloody side, Stigmata didn't disappoint. Featuring great audio/visuals and tons of extras, this movie is a must-see for those at all interested in learning more about the religious "affliction" know as the Stigmata.