Seven Brides for Seven Brothers - DVD

Special Features:

Extra languages - Spanish and German; subtitles available for 19 languages, plus two (English, German) for the hearing-impaired

The DVD includes a short 1997 documentary, narrated by Howard Keel, on "The Making of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." Keel gives some of the history of the movie, such as the fact that the movie was filmed entirely on the sound stages of the M-G-M studios in order to save money.

The documentary includes interviews with Michael Kidd, Stanley Donen, Russ Tamblyn, and others involved with the film. The interesting interviews and commentary include explanations of how the dances in "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" evolved.

My Review:

The DVD of "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" is digitally enhanced, with excellent, sharp and clear video and bright, natural colors. The 2.55:1 aspect ratio is great for viewing the long barn dance number on a large screen TV, but it does not work well for smaller, portable sets.

The story of "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" is based originally on an old Roman legend, "The Rape of the Sabine Women," a story which is told in the film by Adam to his younger brothers. It is this legend that motivates them to kidnap the women they want. The story might work well as a short story, but it comes across in the film as quite "corny." However, the story line of "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" is not the reason people enjoy the film. The dance numbers, which Michael Kidd, the choreographer, insists are not real dancing, are the highlight of the movie. Especially enjoyable is the barn dance number that features gymnastic feats by five of the brothers.