I’ve already dealt with Quantum of Solace’s merits as a film, but now that the DVD’s out, it’s time to revisit what the latest Bond flick looks like on the small screen. Here’s a hint: smaller. Like most action films, it suffers a little from the shrinkage. Bond films are better the more you’re absorbed in their world, even with their enhanced realism since Craig took on the mantle. Unless you have a home theater, it’s tough to duplicate the experience of seeing Quantum of Solace at the local multiplex.

And a lot of critics (and fans) were disappointed even by that, so chances are they won’t be happy with the DVD. Especially the single-disc version. It’s utterly bare-bones, featuring only trailers and a music video for the hideous theme song (”Another Way to Die” by the unlikely pairing of Jack White and Alicia Keyes). I can’t honestly say that a repeat viewing improves the movie. I liked it to begin with, and found it somewhat less engrossing the second time around.

As a Bond fan, you probably still want to own this movie. As a completist, you don’t need me to tell you that. But as a casual fan or an action movie buff, do you really need this movie? Will you really want to watch it again in a month, or a year?

Obviously these are questions only you can answer for yourself, but for me, the answer’s not totally clear. I am both a Bond fan and a completest, so I want to own this. But will it leave my shelf anytime soon? Is it something I’d bring along to watch with friends, hoping to convert them to the fandom?

Especially with the two-disc edition costing over $20 (over $30 if you like to buy your DVDs from overpriced brick-and-mortar stores), it might not be worth it to everyone. Buy with caution.

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