What's on a DVD?

A look inside

PLUGGED IN

On 'The Matrix' DVD, viewers can switch away from the main feature

to learn how a favorite scene was shot or listen to one of its creators discuss style and technique.

DVD also allows more than one version to be included on a disc, letting viewers choose the size and shape of the picture (wide-screen vs. TV format).

Ditto for sound, since DVD technology often encodes more than one dialogue track on a disc. Watch the new Hollywood thriller in English - then flick a switch and practice your Spanish or French!

I WANT MY DVD

Multiple viewing options, shown here from 'The Matrix,' point to an important reason DVD is replacing VHS and laserdiscs:

The history of motion pictures has moved steadily toward increased control of the experience by the viewer.

(c) Copyright 2000. The Christian Science Publishing Society