Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (2 Disc Set) [2001] [DVD] [2002]

Inspired by the popular video game franchise, Hironobu Sakaguchi's Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within is a completely computer-generated film which, unlike Toy Story and Shrek, is also a serious science fiction drama with astonishingly human digital actors. Aki, the female lead, appeared in a full-page spread in Maxim magazine's Hot 100 list--and was indistinguishable from the real-life models. The setting and conflict make for incredible action, but it's the larger issues, character interaction and human elements that really make the movie shine. The Spirits Within is not simply a science fiction movie, in the same way that Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is not simply a kung-fu flick. The result is a fantastic summer movie with better action and more emotion than Pearl Harbor and actors more lifelike than those in that other video game movie, Tomb Raider.--Mike Fehlauer, Amazon.com

On the DVD: disc one includes an interesting, if a little flat, director’s commentary. Better is the isolated score with a superb and fascinating commentary from composer Elliot Goldenthal. Other options allow you to access more information about the film. The menus are clear and feature full CGI effects and specially created sequences. Disc two is where you will find the real meat, with literally hours of documentaries and technical promos to plough through covering every aspect of the filmmaking process, along with music videos and an alternative opening sequence. You can re-edit a short sequence from the film and there’s also a wealth of DVD-ROM material offering the complete screenplay and an interesting tour of Square Pictures, makers of the film. Features like the FHM-style photo shoot of CGI heroine Aki give an indication of the target audience for this movie. Add all this extra material to the superb picture quality--which almost leaves you convinced that you are watching a live action movie--and crystal sharp sound and you have one of the most technically impressive discs to hit the market so far. Any DVD buff will need this just to prove that the format is a worthwhile investment.--Jon Weir

DVD Special Features Disc 1 Digitally Mastered in High Definition using the filmless digital files
Commentaries:
1) Co-Director and Crew
2) Animation Director, Editor and Staging Director
Isolated Score with Commentary by Composer Elliot Goldenthal
Storyboard/Playblast selects with optional Filmmaker Commentary. Also includes Subtitle factoids.
Interactive Animation Menus: Featuring CGI
Intros Created by Square Pictures
Scene Selection with Motion Images
Theatrical Trailers
Production Notes

DVD Special Features Disc 2 Original Interactive Documentary: The Making of Final Fantasy. Dig deeper and link-out to 17 information pods including: Final Fantasy Thriller Music Video, Mini-Movie: Aki's Dream, 2 Face Wraps (Aki, Dr. Sid), Character Morphs, Matte Art Explorations, Composting Builds
Multi workshop Including: 7 In-Depth Character Files, 3 Vehicle Scale Comparisons (Bandit, Quatro, Black Boa), Trailer Explorations, Sets and Props
Alternate Opening Sequence
Final Fantasy Shuffler: Become the filmmaker by re-editing a pivotal scene from the film.
Interactive Animated Menus

DVD-Rom Exclusive: Interactive Film Exploration, Includes Complete Screenplay, Virtual Tour of Square Pictures, Screensaver and Weblinks. (NB: Requires DVD:Rom Drive on your PC with Widows 95 or higher and will not work on CD:ROM drive. May not work on Macintosh computers.)

The year is 2065. A meteor has crashed onto Earth unleashing millions of alien creatures who roam the earth, decimating field and city alike, threatening to extinguish life itself. Prepare to be spellbound by an amazing woman, the brave individuals at her side and an astounding mission to save the Earth - all in cutting-edge CGI!

The year is 2065 AD. The Earth is infested with alien spirits, and mankind faces total extinction. Led by a strange dream and guided by her mentor, Dr Sid, scientist Aki Ross struggles to collect the eight spirits in the hope of creating a force powerful enough to protect the planet. With the aid of the Deep Eyes Squadron Aki must save the Earth from its darkest hate and unleash the spirits within.

Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within is the groundbreaking new CGI film from the creators of the Final Fantasy Video Game Franchise.