When the 1996 film Michael arrived on DVD, it joined the ranks of mid-90s dramas that often feel more like curiosities than classics. Directed by Nora Ephron and starring John Travolta as the archangel Michael, the movie is a gentle comedy-drama that trades on Travolta’s charisma and a premise that mixes the divine with the mundane. On DVD, the experience is what you might expect from a catalog title of this era: serviceable, but far from a showcase for the format.
The film follows two tabloid reporters (William Hurt and Andie MacDowell) who are sent to investigate a man claiming to be the angel Michael. They find him living in a motel, chain-smoking, drinking beer, and generally behaving in ways that don’t align with heavenly expectations. The plot is a road trip narrative, as the trio travels to Iowa with the angelic hitchhiker in tow. It’s a setup that allows for episodic, character-driven moments rather than high-stakes drama.
In real-world usage, this DVD is best suited for a quiet evening where you want something undemanding. The film’s pacing is leisurely, and the humor is gentle, relying on Travolta’s laid-back delivery and the contrast between his celestial nature and his earthly vices. The DVD format itself doesn’t add much here. The video transfer is adequate for a standard-definition release from the late 1990s, with moderate detail and color that looks a bit dated. The audio is clear in a front-channel mix, but don’t expect surround sound immersion. The disc includes a few basic extras: a theatrical trailer and a commentary track from Ephron, which is informative if you’re interested in the production’s behind-the-scenes decisions.
Key functional features of this DVD include:
- Standard 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer
- Dolby Digital 5.1 surround audio (though the mix is conservative)
- Subtitles in English and Spanish
- Theatrical trailer and audio commentary
One notable limitation is the lack of any restored or upgraded elements. This is a bare-bones release that doesn’t offer anything beyond what you’d get from a basic cable broadcast. The video quality shows its age, with occasional softness and grain that might distract viewers accustomed to high-definition. The commentary track, while interesting, is the only substantial extra; there are no deleted scenes or featurettes. If you’re hoping for a deep dive into the film’s themes or production, you’ll be disappointed.
Compared to other angel-themed films from the same era, like City of Angels (1998) or the more comedic Dogma (1999), Michael occupies a middle ground. It’s less romantic than the former and far less irreverent than the latter. It’s also a stark contrast to more modern streaming options, where you might find similar quirky dramas with better visual quality and more bonus content. If you already have a subscription to a service that includes this film, watching it there might be more convenient than buying the DVD, unless you’re a collector who values physical media.
Who is this DVD for? It’s suitable for fans of John Travolta’s mid-90s work, those who enjoy Nora Ephron’s gentle storytelling, or viewers looking for a low-key film that doesn’t demand intense emotional investment. It’s also a reasonable choice for a library or a rental if you’re curious about the premise but not ready to commit to a purchase.
Who is it not for? If you’re expecting a profound religious film or a sharp comedy, you’ll be let down. The tone is uneven at times, and some scenes feel stretched. The DVD format may also be a dealbreaker for those who prioritize picture and sound quality. Additionally, viewers who prefer fast-paced, plot-driven stories will likely find the film too slow. The character development is thin in places, and the romance subplot between Hurt and MacDowell feels forced.
In summary, Michael on DVD is a respectable but unremarkable release. It captures a specific kind of 1990s filmmaking that feels nostalgic for some but dated for others. The disc does its job without fanfare, and the film itself is a mild, occasionally charming diversion. It’s not a must-own, but for the right viewer at the right time, it can be a pleasant watch. Just keep your expectations grounded—this angel doesn’t perform miracles on DVD.
