Issue 147

DVD Review: Dr Strangelove - The Reel Collection Special

23rd October 2006

Stanley Kubrick originally intended to produce a straight-faced Cold War thriller in Dr.Strangelove.

The sheer absurdity of the Cold War nuclear arms policy, however, led the director and co-screenwriter to twist the script of Dr. Strangelove into a classic dark satire. Soviet and American leaders race to prevent the reality of mutually assured destruction after the paranoid and delusional General Jack D. Ripper orders an air strike upon Russian targets.

The partnership of Kubrick's original interpretation, with sharp comic performances by Peter Sellers (two main characters and the title role), created a picture never bettered in stressing the irrationality of Cold War nuclear deterrence.

The Reel Collection format features several documentaries, including some highlights of Kubrick's early career and his other work with Peter Sellers. The film tin packaging includes a collection of film stills for the fans, although many of the special features are available on previous editions.

Dr Strangelove: The Reel Collection Special Edition was released on 2 October.

Tom Okeeffe