People Like Us

Using the tagline "inspired by true events" has never taken a more personal tone than with the film "People Like Us." The semi-autobiographical film, directed and co-written by Alex Kurtzman (known for big budget films like "Star Trek" and the "Transformers" series), tells the tale of a fractured family that comes together for the patriarch's funeral. Upon meeting with his father's lawyer, Sam is tasked with tracking down and giving money to a half-sister and nephew that he never knew existed.

The special features on the Blu-ray/DVD combo pack are centered on discussing the film at great length. Included are two feature commentaries of Kurtzman discussing the film with actors and his co-writer. On most packages that would be enough, but here a select scene commentary between him and Michelle Pfeiffer is included. Further discussion can be found with the deleted and extended scenes, which includes an introduction by Kurtzman for each scene explaining why they were cut.

Rather than including a blooper reel of humorous flubs by the cast during filming, the blooper reel included only further alienates the audience. The clips show the cast cracking up for no reason, leaving you to feel like you've missed the joke. In fact, the only part of the package that embraces the audience is "Taco Talk," an extended version of a scene from the film with Chris Pine and Elizabeth Banks talking, half in character and half as themselves. The chemistry between the two in this one scene is potent and a welcome change from the rest of the package.

While the film is a deeply personal story for the director and co-writer, there is simply not enough exposition to discuss without it getting repetitive. Having the filmmakers offer this much explanation for the film lessens the experience for viewers. It's hard to formulate your own opinion when the filmmakers are constantly giving their opinion or explanation about every aspect. "People Like Us" should use the tagline "think like us" because that is basically what they are asking fans to do.

"People Like Us"
Blu-ray Combo Pack
$39.99
http://www.dreamworksstudios.com/