A trifle from Barry Levinson and Robin Williams, "Man of the Year" proves one thing-that a good comedian in the White House might not be a bad thing but a film about the same subject isn't a good thing. Robin Williams plays Tom Dobbs a talk show host who runs for President on a lark and doesn't appear to have a chance. He wins. When it turns out that there might have been a mistake (think hanging chad except involving computers) and the wrong person was elected, Dobbs finds himself in a fight to fulfill a job he originally didn't think he'd have a chance to do. Having an outstanding cast to support "Man of the Year" (Laura Linney, Jeff Goldblum) can't prop up this feeble satire from Levinson ("Wag the Dog"). The premise and Williams certainly show some potential early on but that potential is quickly lost as the film falls into a predictable rhythm and story. ---

Image & Sound:

A presidential transfer awaits those who put this film into their DVD player. Universal has done a top notch job in putting this together for DVD. Colors are vivid and images crisp. Audio sounds quite good as well with nice use of surround speakers. ---

We get two noteworthy special features with this set. The first is a solid video diary on the making of the film. It would be more noteworthy if the film were good. The second is a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the making of the film, Williams' improve skills both on and off camera. It's a solid and occasionally entertaining piece.

Final Words: