The Cross and the Switchblade
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Dino DeFilippi, Erik Estrada, Jackie Giroux, Jo-Ann Robinson, Pat BooneBrand: RELIGIOSA
DVD: Region Code 1
Audio: English (Unknown); German (Unknown); French (Unknown); Italian (Unknown); Spanish (Unknown); English (Subtitled); English (Original Language); Spanish (Original Language); Portuguese (Original Language); Russian (Original Language); French (Original Language); Italian (Original Language); German (Original Language); Polish (Original Language)
Format: Color, DVD, NTSC
Picture Format: 1.33:1
Running Time: 105 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2003-04-01
Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Ross Records
Movie Reviews of The Cross and the Switchblade
Movie Review: Wilkerson's blade proves to be the sharpest ...
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a Christian classic that has been transferred very well from the original 35mm negative to DVD. I recall seeing this movie as an adolescent when it first came out and can tell you that it made a huge impression on me. There is no sense comparing the technical production and general aesthetics of this film against the full budget films from that era. The big budget affairs are well known for there excessive resources and effects. "The Cross and the Switchblade" does compare very favorably with the revered cult classics of the day however.
There is probably a bit of nostalgic prejudice clouding my judgment but I do not think that this film could have been improved upon in any way when you take into account its intended purpose. A bigger budget would have allowed for more exciting special effects, visually stimulating scenery, and probably would have garnered "The Cross and the Switchblade" more technical praise. As a result of not having the extra budget, the characters and story line become more of a focal point making it a more intimate viewing experience.
As for the special bonus features, they are a worthwhile addition to the DVD product:
* Interview with Don Murray (Writer/Director) 20 minutes
This is a typical interview offering interesting insights into the behind the scenes events. Of particular note is the story of how gang members were actually recruited to play roles in the film which gave it a true sense of authenticity but also introduced special dangers to the project and to the crew. These gang members really hated each other and had to be managed carefully. Another interesting story touches on how a 21 year old African American girl won a part in the film that was originally written for a teenage Caucasian male: Bo.
* Interview with Associate Director Ken Curtis 20 minutes
This interview focuses on general facts and figures (i.e. setting box office records upon release in 40 cities; translated into 30 languages; etc). The discussion about the films origins and the financial challenges it faced takes on a very businesslike tone.
* Back to The Cross and the Switchblade 24 minutes
This feature begins by discussing the events that brought David Wilkerson to NYC to start his ministry among the gangs. Excerpts from the film are interspersed with real life footage of the people currently being ministered to by the programs that are an outgrowth of Mr. Wilkerson's ministry. The very real images of the people and places that are presented in this special feature create an impressive documentary that is well worth watching.
* Nicky Cruz in South Africa 32 minutes
This short feature is worth the price of the DVD alone. Nicky Cruz speaks very candidly about his experiences from his childhood being an unwanted child in a home filled with witchcraft up through his encounter with David Wilkerson. Fans of "The Princess Bride" will notice how much Nicky Cruz's command of the English language resembles that of Andre the Giant's.
* Biography Feature (general text information about the film personnel listed below)
Pat Boone
Erik Estrada
Don Murray
"The Cross and the Switchblade" rates five stars for the clean, clear transfer from film to DVD, for the special bonus features, for the film being faithful to the times and the culture in which the story took place, and for showing how the message is or is not received by the people involved in this real-life story.
Summary of The Cross and the Switchblade
DVD-Cross & Switchblade by Wilkerson DavidSimilar DVD Movies
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