That said, it's the cinematography that sticks with me. Yes, I listened and learned quite a bit about these many sites I'd never even heard of. But the brilliant shots in daylight, fog, or even the dead of night are simply amazing.
When you add in cool computer-generated graphics of the theories discussed, including how some of the sites may have looked before the stones were removed for other purposes along with the entertaining presentation and beautiful high definition video, you have an amazing experience lasting more than two hours.
My only complaint about the DVD is there were frustrating gaps of a few seconds where the picture would go black as it loaded the next chapter.
In addition to the documentary itself, you get quite a large number of extras.
The "Interview" included provides a great deal of background from Soskin and Bott on the making of the film. The project has been in the works since 2001 and the duo discuss how it came to be and their goals for the film.
The "Outtakes" feature includes a number of bloopers caught while filming. Soskin, like any other narrator or actor, sometimes takes several tries before getting a line right. It's obvious his sense of humor helps him through those rough patches.
Some "Unseen Footage" shows some of the clips cut from the film while they shot it. It was very interesting to see the camera work and how weather affected their shots.
The "Original TV Pilot Film" that was made in 2001 is included on the DVD. Originally the Soskin and Bott's idea was for a number of short segments on television. But after they shot the first 10 minute film, they decided that it was untenable due to schedules and weather. Instead, the duo took it upon themselves to write, shoot, and edit the film.
Also included is a short trailer for the film, a slide show with 72 slides covering the making of the film, and commentary from Soskin and Bott.
If you've ever wanted to know more about some of the stone monument mysteries of the British Isles, Standing with Stones is a great way to learn more. In addition, the high definition video provides a beautiful way to tour parts of the U.K. without actually getting a plane ticket!
For more information about the film, be sure to check out the Standing with Stones website.
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