The Notebook DVD: Review By Courtney O.

Out in time for Valentine's Day, The Notebook is just the kind of love story women talk about. Partially set in the nostalgic era of the 1940's, the film feeds us on the overgrown beauty of the South, and the drive and passion of two young people in unconditional love, torn apart by circ*mstance. The realistic portrayals of Allie and Noah by newcomers Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling (both Canadians) are surprisingly fresh, sarcastic and totally sincere. A lot can be learned from their playful magnetism.

However, this nostalgic view is only half of the movie. Equal representation on the big screen are an older version of Allie and Noah (James Garner); again 'torn apart' by circ*mstance. The test of undying love comes to a head, as the man who couldn't give up on his fiery redhead fifty or so years earlier, can't give up on his platinum lady in the present. The film comes full circle as the tale is told through a notebook, written to remind the aging and ill Allie of her life and her once passionate love.

So, is love just not enough to keep two people together anymore? Doesn't there always seem to be some dramatic decision in every intimate relationship? Well for Allie, it's who does she want to spend the rest of her life with. Because in every love tale, there always seems to be a triangle, an option, a crossroads between the head and the heart, between the safe and comfortable lover-oftentimes with deep pockets-and the one who is more exciting and challenging, and therefore, ultimately more fulfilling. Yet life's tribulations do not end here, not for anyone. And somehow through all this, the key I think is that love isn't so much an anchor, but rather, a very powerful state of mind, one that can help you overcome any and every obstacle laid before you, if you nurture it so.

It's true; I am a sop for love stories. But oftentimes I find them tainted by Sleeping Beauty-like perfection and the formidable happily-ever-after ending; so unrealistic to the point that one must grab for the anti-depressants-and quick. But The Notebook is not such a tale. Yes, it contains a very romantic and persistent character, and another that is less sure and undecided about the relationship--but think, how many relationships are really like that, seriously? A lot. I think where this movie makes up for Noah's heart-wrenching, awe-inspiring, unfiltered love, is in showing the dirt, showing the reality of any two people trying to coexist; willing to make something-not totally easy, and not fully sanctioned by the family-work. And how does it end you wonder? Not gonna tell.

I'm kinda old fashion. While the inclusion of special features on a DVD wouldn't sway my decision to buy or not to buy, I can say that I am becoming more and more intrigued by what is offered in the special feature content.

New Line Cinema has included some juicy featurettes, deleted scenes and other special content in this set that made my admiration for this film even fonder.

All in the Family

A short featurette with a look at the film by director Nick Cassevetes. Not my favorite of the bunch, but well worth sparking some deeper intrigue into the creation of the film.

A Simple Story, Well Told

Another small featurette with Nicholas Sparks who initially created the story. Very worthwhile material straight from the guy who spun this darling tale.

Casting Rachel and Ryan

I loved this featurette. The deeper you click through the menus and bios of the various actors the more you reveal, like the various screen tests of the actors!

Locations

A look at the locations in the South chosen to set the film around. Romantic, sweet goodness as warm and frothy as hot chocolate.

Deleted Scenes

12 deleted scenes occupy the disc which I found to be very entertaining. Many of these scenes are alternate takes of those featured in the film. Very entertaining stuff, and more love story for your buck!

Audio Commentaries

Director Nick Cassavetes and writer Nicholas Sparks both sit down for run down of events that inspired them to create this classic love tale.

This DVD set is doubled-sided, providing a 2.35:1 widescreen version on one side and a fullscreen version on the other. I tested both and both wooed me on my ho-hum set top television. And even though my equipment isn't the greatest, I can say that this film looks beautiful on DVD, capturing the true essence of this story in every way. Thank you Mr. DVD.

On a crappy little TV in a 500 square foot apartment in the bustling city of Long Beach, um, Dolby's EX 5.1 soundtrack sounded just fine. The music was quite nice as well, enlivened by the great big band sounds of the Swing era, as well as original score inspired by Deep South simplicity by Aaron Zigman. And not to mention the many calm sounds of nature, like migrating birds, and the trickling of rain-all adding a very earthy and nurturing feel to the movie, reinforcing the deep, interconnected bond of its main characters.

On the cover is a still from the romantic boat scene, a turning point in the film. Under the downtrodden of rain, it is here where Allie and Noah can't hold back their overflowing love and passion they have for one another.

Boyfriends, don't be afraid to watch this movie. You won't be humiliated or expected to do the kinds of things Noah does for Allie. But we can all take something important from this movie: It's a love story where it's okay to fight, it's okay to be from different sides of the railroad track, and it's okay to wake up and appreciate the one who is totally devoting their life to you, and let yourself be happy for once.