Tony Bennett - An American Classic [Blu-ray] Reviews

• Rob Marshall's Creative Energy Sparks a Worthy, Ultra-Stylish Celebration of Bennett's Career

  
  By A13E0ARAXI6KJW on 2006-11-26
  To accompany his lustrous "Duets" CD, perennial crooner Tony Bennett recruited some first-rank talent behind and before the cameras to help him produce this remarkable TV special to commemorate his 80th birthday. It is at once a throwback to the network variety specials from the 1960's and 70's (before pay-cable rendered them obsolete) and a reinvention of the format incorporating biographical elements within the context of mini-video performances. The result aired on NBC earlier this week as an hour-long special. Without commercials, the program scarcely runs forty minutes, but it remains a superbly crafted showcase for a timeless singer. Thanks to Rob Marshall's innovative conception and immaculate direction, the show follows a roughly chronological timeline of Bennett's career with nine starry-eyed duets connected by brief snippets of his professional milestones.
  
  Things start on a high note with Bennett in an empty theater singing Charlie Chaplin's "Smile" joined by a mellifluous-sounding Barbra Streisand, his most accomplished partner for the evening. In a jazz nightclub setting, he is surrounded by the acrobatic Tony Bennett Dancers and swings though "Sing, You Sinners" with a confident John Legend. In a recording booth at Columbia Studios, Bennett sings his first hit, "Because of You" accompanied by smoky vocals from k.d. lang and a languorous trumpet solo by Chris Botti. Visually, my favorite part of the program is the black-and-white recreation of the 1960's-style variety show complete with dancers in sailor tops and Capri pants. In this segment, Diana Krall joins Bennett on a finger-snapping "The Best Is Yet to Come" followed by a sonorous version of "The Shadow of Your Smile" given a samba-accented makeover by Columbian rock singer Juanes.
  
  The inevitable Vegas sequence features a bevy of feather-fanned showgirls. In this milieu, Bennett is joined by Elton John on a jaunty "Rags to Riches", by new-jack crooner Michael Bublé on a swinging "Just in Time" (whose Dean Martin-style behavior may rankle the more feminist-minded), and finally by a surprisingly stationary Stevie Wonder leaning heavily on his melisma on his own "For Once in My Life" (which includes his trademark harmonica interlude). To show his popularity with the current crop of chart-toppers, Bennett is joined by a retro-styled Christina Aguilera and the dancers in full Fosse mode on "Steppin' Out". It all ends appropriately with a shimmering solo of Bennett's signature song, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco".
  
  Providing the spoken interludes between the performances are Billy Crystal, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Bruce Willis, John Travolta and Robert DeNiro. At about 45 minutes in total, the extras on the DVD actually last longer than the special itself. They start with a 2 1/2-minute trailer and go right into footage of the dancers rehearsing their four production numbers. What follows is an extensive making-of featurette which features interviews with Marshall, choreographer John DeLuca and other key members of the creative staff interspersed with behind-the-scenes footage.
  
  

• Where are the clowns?

  
  By A1O1KQYQ7AXS2Q on 2006-11-24
  I've seen Tony 5 times live and have all his records. The dvd was great, what there was of it! PLEASE, what happened to the filming with Sting, Bono, Celine, Mcgraw etc??????If time was a problem then I have no problem with the edited program-a one hour special on TV. BUT, why didn't Sony film the rest and offer it to us on a full length dvd???I would gladly have paid for a complete film. Shame on you Sony!
  
  

• Why 2 stars?

  
  By A36OM3W2C2HO0S on 2006-11-29
  OK, this is the dvd of the television special that was on in mid-November, right? That show was an hour long which translates to maybe 40 minutes when you cut out the Target commercials. It was an intersting enough show to watch because they had some background of Tony and shots from days gone by and then maybe 5 duets. I was surprised when it came on that it wasn't going to be a 2 hour show given all the advance publicity and with Tony's 80th birthday and all. The end result I thought mainly given the shortness of the show was a little disappointing. I mean they gave madonna 2 hours a few days before and her whole concert sounded like she was singing along with a drum machine (ok I could only take it for about 3 songs) but tony bennet gets an hour, that is 40 minutes. They really should be including this disc with the cd as a bonus, maybe charge 2 bucks more or something. I had been hoping to see Tony do the duet with Elvis Costello that he did with him on letterman of 'Are You Having Any Fun' but of course Costello doesn't exactly fit into the American prime time diet does he? It is nice to hear Tony doing his solo version of that tune on a current safeway commercial though. Anyway, I don't think this dvd is worth buying frankly.
  
  

• SUPERB

  
  By A3FITVNUCR46RU on 2006-11-22
  WOW - Tony Bennett is simly a class act and this DVD proves it. This show is filmed like a throwback to days gone by and his duet with Barbra Streisand is flawless!!
  
  

• Tony Bennett American Classic

  
  By AT7VN6S5IUNGM on 2006-12-24
  This DVD was excellent as far as it went. However I saw the show when it was presented on TV. I was very disappointed that when veiwing the DVD at least four maybe more artists were left off . I never would have bought this product had I known that it was not complete. I feel cheated and want others to realize that they are not getting a complete show.
  
  
• Tony B Blu-ray
  By A1REIN2RNMSTMQ on 2007-02-21
  Outstanding duets. Tony Bennett again multi-generational. That's why he's still winning awards. LOVE the blu-ray format.
  
  
• This disc is encoded for a 16x9 anamorphic picture...
  By A3MQTSF26KT1PU on 2006-12-22
  ...and offers the choice of a rich sounding PCM Stereo (default) or an atmospheric (and tastefully restrained) 5.1 Dolby Digital surround mix (offered via the audio set-up menu). All of the bonus material is also presented in 16x9 anamorphic and in stereo - "enhanced for widescreen televisions." The show really takes advantage of this movie-like format - adding to the classy elegance of the, alas, much-too-short presentation.
  
  I only note this here because nowhere on the packaging or on the disc itself is this information offered. It's obvious this was shot in HD, and apparently there will also be a Blu-Ray release of this title.
  
  
• Bennett
  By A3SRN66JLHAPLR on 2007-04-10
  Uncompressed PCM stereo is superb. Picture is excellent, if you like contempary style music, this is a must.
  
  
• Great production, great choreography, great performances!
  By A2KB564KNK2Z5Z on 2007-05-12
  Before I purchased this item, I thought I would only enjoy a few tracks by my favorite artists. But, it kept me enthralled all through the playing time. Personally, I bought this one because I like Barbra Streisand. But, wow, all the duet performances are so great. I've watched it twice now (in only 2 weeks). And I think I'll still enjoy it some more times. I think this DVD can be played at your home parties for the enjoyment of your valued guests.
  
  
• Tony Bennett Blu-Ray Review
  By A28RC4RKZ77VMS on 2007-05-12
  I liked Tony Bennett before, but now I love him. Very nice DVD, even the black and white portion is so clear. Highly recommended.
  
  
• Tony Bennet - An American Classic - Blu-ray
  By ARKY2KAX4WHCI on 2007-09-27
  Everything about this show is top notch. I have the Blu-ray version and the video and audio quality was superb. The production was outstanding and was patterned after some of the old time tv variety shows. Every guest that performed seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves and were at the top of there game. I would highly recommend this in any format but the Blu-ray version really stands out.
  
  
• cancel the CHEEZY dancers -you don't need em + won't miss em
  By A1UV209YOSPRG2 on 2007-03-20
  I am giving four stars because I dont waste my time writing negative reviews- so a four star review means I have to diss something. My stomach was turning watching the cheezy and totally gross dance scenes- feathered fans and top hats and canes- PUHLEEZE !! None of these vocals are enhanced in any way buy these gyrating midriffs with the same old sorry meaningless cliched moves and the horrific non flattering outfits- they look like pole dancers in an atlantic city off the beaten path porn palace. Have I made my case?
  Other than that the songs chosen were interesting, everyone does a masterful job singing - but I couldn't watch this tape again. These 2006 scenes just makes one all the more nostalgic for the neon lights of the old time dimly lit smoky jazz clubs when musical craft was king- I bet tony wishes that this style was still reigning as well
  
  
• Living Legend!
  By A1YHH08ONCRVW8 on 2007-03-27
  First, I give this four starts and not five only for the brevity of the program. But 40-odd minutes still offer many opportunities to appreciate what this 80 year-old can do! The creative program was directed by Rob Marshall and includes choreography (Tony even dances a bit) and visuals that live up to his Chicago accomplishments. Being something of a purist, I have to say I was initially skeptical of the "guest list." Each musician rises to the challenge, and the songs alternate between touching and flashy. Tony shines in each tune, an effect heightened by a full orchestra and elaborate sets. The film quality is excellent and vivid as is the sound recording. I found myself watching and re-watching sections over and over again -- you will, too. The extra features (including the "making of" documentary) are very interesting, too. This project was clearly a work of love for all involved. What a fine way to celebrate Tony's career.
  
  
• Tony Bennet does it again!
  By A36QSK0CVYJM26 on 2007-10-10
  I wasn't sure what to think about my blind purchse of this DVD. When I sat down with the family to watch it we were messmerized by the quality and exceptional musicianship of the whole event staged to celebrate Tony Bennet's 80th birthday. The director won an Emmey Award for the DVD. I could see why. It is fantastic set design with a throwback to the 60's that was just so much fun to watch. The dancers really brought a cool feel to the whole event. I can't recommend this DVD enough. The whole family gave it a big thumbs up. The behind the scenes was a great bonus as well.My favorite performance was Tony and Stevie Wonder. Just superb!
  
  
• Oustanding quality, but too short!
  By A3C88KLMC0EEIQ on 2007-12-23
  When I listened and viewed this Blu-ray disc I was taken aback by the quality of the audio, video and the performances. I spent the whole evening with it and was absolutely enchanted with selection of songs, the sincere interpretations of the guest artists and the stunning choreography of the dancers. This disc is a real keeper and I know I will be watching it and yes, listening to it over and over for many years to come.
  
  However, I could not rate it a 4.5 or 5 because it was simply too short. I was disappointed by the length of this disc and expected more. I could care less about the add-ons or whatever you call them. I wanted more of Tony Bennett. I didn't get that.
  
  Otherwise, this disc was most enjoyable from a pure audio, video and entertainment perspective.
  
  
• Good
  By A1KCV94TGCASIV on 2008-08-02
  Excellent picture quality, the Blu-ray is outstanding.
  Was somewhat dissapointed with the length of the disk, felt somewhat cheated.
  
  
• the master shows how it's done
  By A21I62TCDL4754 on 2007-01-10
  Tony Bennett has such a great talent and winning smile. It is great to see him please audiences still and to inspire younger performers. They need to learn from the master. Today's young entertainers gain lots of celebrity for less talent.
  
  
• TELEVISION AT IT'S MUSICAL BEST!
  By A2W2I68JZA8QSD on 2007-01-10
  What a delight to see a musical television special done the right way! The Tony Bennett American Classic special that was directed by Rob Marshall was truly a great musical event! The concept of having music icon Tony Bennett preform was contempory artists could easily have not worked...but pairing him up with the likes of Elton John, Diana Krall, and K D Lang (just to name a few)...worked magically! The concept for each of the numbers was brilliant and did not seem dated and it all just worked perfectly! My only complaint on the DVD was with the extra's....I would really have enjoyed seeing more from the "from the cutting room floor" But have to say the show itself was tops!!!
  
  
• Still one of the best singers!
  By A6FDC6FLHM4GJ on 2007-01-16
  Produtcion quality is very high caliber! My only complaint is music arrangers and conductors are not credited as the charts are the best.
  
  
• Excelente Concierto de Tony Bennett
  By A18KYU86O98BP4 on 2007-02-08
  Una vez mas podemos ver la grandeza del inmenso Tonny Bennett, quien junto a estelares de la cancion traen un concierto sin desperdicios.
  Quien lo obtenga, tendra un DvD excelente para su coleccion.
  
  
• Great Buy
  By A14WH3QXOPYBM9 on 2007-03-26
  I had caught the tail end of this concert when it was on tv. I enjoyed what I saw and heard, and It was definately what I had expected. Very good singing by Toney B's guest and the incomperable Toney B was excellent as always!!!!!!!! He still has his pipes at 80!!!!! Totally blew me away!!!! The concert is more of a mock tv show. Though I did like this format, it lacked the enthusiasm of those old dean martin tv shows. The director should have had more interaction with Tony and his guest singers. It would have been fun to see him talking about jazz music, with the modern day crooner, Michael Buble , for instance. All in all this is a great dvd definately worth buying, with the performances with Christina Agulara and Michael Buble standing out!!!!
  
  
• Tony the Best
  By A32ZDW6G0A8M8O on 2007-09-21
  Having been a Tony Bennett fan for 50 years I wondered if this DVD would be any different from others. It certainly was - a great use of guests and the dancing was superb. It really is a wonderfully produced show featuring a lot of Bennett favourites but packaged so differently. I loved this DVD and recommend it to all his fans and if you've not discovered Mr Bennett yet - start now!
  
  
• Sinatra said, "he is the best singer because he moves me"
  By A1CIJS9J3HW88G on 2008-02-08
  Everybody loves Tony Bennett. And see who he sings with:
  - Barbra Streisand
  - K.D. Lang plus Chris Botti in one number (Because of You)
  - John Legend
  - Diana Krall
  - Elton John
  - Michael Buble
  - Christina Aguilera
  
  And the Tony Bennett great dancers.
  
  This concert is worth every invested dollar. Plus you get outstanding PQ and audio in 5.1 uncompressed PCM.
  
  
• Great DVD!
  By A3HPHLWHW0XWJ4 on 2008-03-06
  Great performances both from Tony Bennet and the guests stars. Beautifully combined the songs with the introductions from the actors.
  His voice is magic as usual.
  
  
• Tony B
  By A2MZ3RFZ0E1NZD on 2008-09-24
  Bluray looks good on my 1080P, but I could have saved money by sticking with my regular DVD.
  
  

• Chris Botti: Live (With Orchestra and Special Guests) [Blu-ray]
• Legends of Jazz: Showcase [Blu-ray]
• Celine Dion: Live in Las Vegas - A New Day [Blu-ray]
• Elton John: Elton 60 - Live At Madison Square Garden [Blu-ray]
• Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds: Live at Radio City Music Hall [Blu-ray]