Search - Directed By Alan Smithee on DVD

MPAA Rating: NR Movie Release: 2000 DVD Release: 04/23/2002 Format: DVD Audio Tracks: English SwapaDVD Credits: 1 Number of Discs: 1 Run Time: 0 hrs 50 mins Studio: Wellspring Media Members Wishing: 2 Genres: Film, TV & Radio, Biography, Film & Television History, Media Studies

The truth behind reviled Hollywood schlockmeister Alan Smithee is revealed in this documentary presented by the American Movie Classics Channel. Identified as having directed around 50 films between the late '60s and the late '90s, Smithee -- in actuality -- is not a real person at all but is instead a Director's Guild of America-designated pseudonym for directors who, for a number of reasons, wanted their names removed from the credits of certain films. This film examines a number of the films in question and filmmakers who chose to use moniker, as well as instances when the Director's Guild refused to allow the name to be used. ~ Ryan Shriver, All Movie Guide

This documentary on the most infamous name in Hollywood filmmaking has been given a simple presentation for its release on DVD. Directed by Alan Smithee has been given a letterboxed transfer to disc in the widescreen aspect ratio of 1.85:1, while the audio has been mastered in Dolby Digital Stereo. The narration and interviews are in English, with no multiple-language options. Bonus materials include a filmography for the mysterious Mr. Smithee, and Internet links to related websites. ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide