An American Classic [Blu-ray]

I caught this special when it was shown on NBC to honor Tony Bennett on his 80th birthday.I was absolutely besotted with the very high quality of the performances and Rob Marshall'sexcellent direction. And throughout that hour I kept thinking "How is it possible that we can stillsee a television special that can be compared with the best of the 1960s?" (that dance numberaccompanying Diana Krall and Tony on "The Best is Yet to Come" is actually a recreation ofa 1960's TV special. It's way groovy!)I thought I would mention highlights but there were so many of them. The introductory remarksby famous actors adds another wonderful dimension. They (people like Billy Crystal, Catherine ZetaJones, John Travolta and others) present the chronology of Tony's long career / major achievementsthat makes this as much a mini-documentary as an entertaining group of performances.This is an iconic achievement as far as a TV special goes. I'd say you should make it part ofyour library. Future generations will be amazed, especially since so little on television is worththe trouble these days.

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.

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!!!

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!

Tony does duets with a variety of famous people. His life is narrated in between by other actors. My only complaint is that it wasn’t long enough. Could have watched another hour! If you like Tony Bennett you’ll not be disappointed!

...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.

Extraordinary production. First class all the way. The only thing I wish that was better was in the bluray mastering of the audio tracks. Dolby digital 5.1 is the best they provided. DTS-HD Master audio would have been more appropriate for such a fine production released on bluray.

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!

From the moment Barbra Streisand walks on stage through the darkness to the moment the titles roll, its just a spellbinding experience and a real lesson as to what musical entertainment ought to be.Music, singing and dancing are all there and there in abundance. Tony's obvious joy at singing with Streisand set the stage for what was to be 'A show to remember'. Previously unheard of singer, John Legend, had me out looking for more examples of his work. I knew of K.D Lang's work before this DVD but I never realised how good a singer she really is and there is a magic between her and Tony that is a joy to see. The arrangement of the tune is angelic and Chris Botti's trumpet is an added bonus. If you want to know what perfection is, look to this track. Diana Krall's 'The best is yet to come' pleases but the dancing and dancer's reveal an age of entertainment, sadly rarely seen today. Elton John amuses, while Michael Buble shows why he is fast becoming one of the most popular MOR artists around. What can anyone say about Tony and Stevie Wonder's duet on 'For once in my life'? Just watching the genuine adulation on Tony's face says it all. Wonder is just amazing. Every note seems to be a surprise and its no wonder that the pair received a Grammy award for the rendition. That, alone, is worth the price of the DVD.Despite not being a fan of modern pop singers like Christine Aguilera, I loved her performance, loved the fantastic dancing and again, the obvious admiration between her and Bennett.On the downside, some of the kitchy switching between colour and b&w filming was an unnecessary embellishment and I could live without the the interjections of stars like Travolta, Zeta-Jones, De Niro and Bruce Willis, although I suppose it helped to show the respect that Bennett is held in, within the entertainment fraternity. The show stands on its content and would have been great, even shot on 8mm.No one can fail to enjoy this show, nor marvel at the great man's abilities as he turns eighty.This is what 'Entertainment' is really all about. Invite some friends over, sit down and enjoy. Its a one off opportunity that would cost a fortune to see live and you can have it for just a few pounds in your own front room.

Hi. This blu-ray have a perfect image, sound and the concert show have the perfect Music. Thank you. Abilio

A classic performance by this renowned singer in a showcase setting. Unique and unrepeatable

Brilliant

Excellent