DVD Reviews

The Code

The Code is the new thriller from Luc Besson's Gaumont productions. Although it aspires to emulate such classic French thrillers as La Femme Nikita and Subway, it fails in every conceivable way.

The Code is the all too familiar story of the ex-con trying to go straight but gives in to temptation, and tries to pull off one last score that promises easy money, easier women, and a clean getaway. Naturally it turns out to be anything but. Although The Code does manage to pull off some stylistic touches, its aspirations were too big for this formulaic storyline.

The Picture is presented in anamorphic widescreen and is actually the best thing about this disc. Images are clear and crisp, with fine black level and contrast, with nice color depth and apparent detail. Occasional grain is the only complaint here. The Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack is a little less than what the seasoned DVD viewer would expect, but it does the job on par with good channel differentiation, even if it mostly comes from the front speakers.

The Extras dept is simply a let down, although one has to wonder if anything of interest could have come from any behind-the-scenes material. Trailers for other Columbia TriStar titles are included as well as one for The Code.

The Code may make for some mildly entertaining fare on a Saturday night, when every other movie you wanted to rent is out. Just beware that if you've seen any good crime film in the last decade, The Code will be viewed as nothing more than a retreat from good film's past.

Review By Shlomi Ifrah