Universal re-releases "Silent Running " with a new transfer and it looks great. Starring Bruce Dern as a space ecological warrior, "Silent Running" has carved out a niche with science fiction fans who should welcome this new release.

new release. Story-The Earth has been depleted of its natural habitats and has taken the remaining ecosystems and placed them in biodomes in space until one day, they can return and replenish the Earth. Aboard the "Valley Forge" a dedicated scientist (Dern) maintains the forest, much to the chagrin of his co-workers (Cliff Potts, Ron Rifkin and Jesse Vint) When word comes that the remaining domes should be jettisoned into space and destroyed. Dern takes matters into his own hands to save the remaining domes on his ship. With the help of three drones (Huey, Dewey, and Louie) Dern must hide from the remaining fleet and deal with the loneliness aboard the ship. This film is really a showcase of Dern's talent, because for much of the film he is acting by himself on the ship. His drones were all played by amputees, who fit snugly into the drone outfits and do a remarkable job of bringing human characteristics to machines that are far from human looking. The humanity and message of the script makes this science fiction film such a powerful story.

Picture-A beautiful anamorphic transfer helped make this release a vast improvement over the original release which was criticized for its less than perfect picture and its cutting of the ending. Filmed aboard an old aircraft carrier, the set has the feel of a deep space ship with its closed-in, authentic doorways and hatches. Special photography by special effects artist and director Douglas Trumbull are realistic without overwhelming you with gadgetry. The models of the ships in space hold up today well against computer generated images. Sound-Dolby mono through two channels is all that is offered, as that was the sound that was originally recorded. Songs sung by Joan Baez and written by Peter Schickele fit well during the film and sound clear and undistorted.

An hour long documentary on the making of the film is a great extra. Filmed back in 1972, the documentary is a bit worn and its quality is not nearly as good as the film itself. Interviews with a young Doug Trumbull and cast plus many on location shots make this a fascinating look at the picture. New material was also produced for the disc, including a look back by director Trumbull and Bruce Dern. Trumbull and Dern also provide commentary on a separate audio track for the disc. Other extras include an original theatrical trailer, production notes and cast/filmmakers bios.

An excellent science fiction film with a message, this very humanistic drama set in space has been faithfully restored for this disc release. Extras make the disc a great value and Dern fans will appreciate his performance as a passionate, caring character.