Synopsis:

Nothing gets the blood pumping like a good war movie with an outrageously patriotic score! Such is the case of Tony Scott's Crimson Tide! Set in the time prior to the end of the Cold War era, America has been put on alert. A Russian dissident has taken control of the Politburo and is waging war on those who do not share his political point of view. In an early morning raid, his forces gain control of a cache of Nuclear weapons and the ability to launch an all out attack on anyone not in line with his goals and ideals. The USS Alabama, a top drawer Nuclear Submarine is dispatched to the region with specific instructions to put down this threat should the threat prove to be more than that. The Commander of the boat (Gene Hackman) has seen combat and lives for the battle. His Executive Officer (Denzel Washington) however is the new breed of military man in that; he views war as the enemy and not a means to an end. During routine prep for the possibility of conflict, an emergency message is received by the sub advising that the situation has worsened and an attack on the US is imminent. Ready to meet the aggressor with both barrels blazing, Hackman steams ahead to meet the would be conqueror of America however, given the great amount of both static and an inability to confirm the message, Washington has his doubts about proceeding without confirming the orders as received. Hackman and Washington go head to head and the action is more than incredible, it's gripping and totally immersing. Of all the sub dramas: Hunt for the Red October, U-571, Run Silent Run Deep, Gray Lady Down etc… Crimson Tide has an emotion and drive all it's own! It's hard to pick a favorite out of this category but if I could, Crimson Tide would be right up there with HFRO & U-571!

Audio/Video:

The audio for Crimson Tide is a very well delineated 5.1 DD soundtrack. The surrounds are put to incredible use as well as the Sub. There are a decent amount of aural effects that essentially immerse you in the experience and the audio track is one exceptionally loud and clear presentation. The video is for the most part a beautifully rendered widescreen digital transfer. The only moments at issue are a few instances of shimmering and slight pixelation. Other than that, the transfer sparkles. The blacks are deep and true and the reds are rich and luxuriant in their presentation.

Extras:

There are no extras for this disc.

Overall:

Crimson Tide is a great movie! The chemistry between Hackman and Washington is stellar. You couldn't have asked for better actors to play these roles. The action is intense and the excitement of the film never lets up. I am crazy about war movies and Crimson Tide is one of those well-written, well-acted and well-directed films that are a credit to the genre. If you are interested in a good drama with teeth, Crimson Tide is for you. I can't recommend this movie enough! The one thing stuck in my craw however is the absolute lack of extras available on the disc! None! Not even a trailer for the movie is included. Hollywood Pictures could have spent a little more money and given us just a taste of the goodies but, they held back in total. With no SE on the horizon, this is going to be the best boat going. If you haven't seen it, you just have to. If you have, see it again! It's a lot of fun and very well presented. Highly Recommended