Touching The Void DVD Review

Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen the print is almost flawless in it's presentation and the transfer is sharp and detailed throughout. Colours are well saturated with no signs of bleed or bloom present and facial close ups manage to show great fine detail. There were only the occasional glimpses of edge enhancement and compression artefacts and for the majority of the time the image looks stunning.

Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 the soundmix is not overly aggressive but captures the snow storms and ice cracks in a pleasing manner. There is good use of ambient effects which helps the action on screen and dialogue and effects are well recorded. LFE use is minimal but when needed it underpins the action.

The extras look at first to be disappointing but what is on offer is interesting and certainly welcome. The Making of documentary follows the crew behind the scenes and we also meet the real Simon Yates and Joe Simpson who give their honest opinions regarding the movie experience. Next is a short film following Joe and Simons return to where it all happened, both men seem to be quite defensive regarding what happened and never truly express themselves to the camera. Finally we get a brief feature telling us what happened after the main incident and what the men are doing now, there are also trailers for other MGM titles.
A truly captivating story of survival in the most extreme circumstances and a film which brings to life the events of that week. The DVD offers excellent AV presentation and is recommended.