It’s great to hear Lumet talk about a movie that he is clearly proud of. He talks about how close it is to the real events, how he worked with the actors, the lack of music, and production anecdotes, like the casting John Cazale (at Pacino's recommendation). Lumet points out the bits that were improvised in the moment by the cast who were responding to their environment. The filmmaker does a great job of taking us through this landmark movie in this informative commentary.

This commentary will make you long for the days where writing and performance were at the forefront of great movies. Lumet's retention of so many fascinating details years after the fact is en-erring. From rehearsal, to scouting and converting the location, right down to revelatory moments in acting and the way it was achieved. Lumet is not only a classic but classy as he even regales the extras with praise for their hard work on those long days. It's one thing to have a vision and quite another to be able to communicate it. Lumet has the gift for both.

The reason for buying DVDs instead of renting them is to watch, then watch again with audio commentary.

All of you out there are deep movie lovers so will assume you know the film well.

I remember seeing Dog day Afternoon upon release and was blown away. Have seen it numerous times over the years since then.

Watching with Sidney Lumet's commentary makes it like watching for the first time. One appreciates the film and especially the performances even more. He is never boring, never patronising and recognises a performance (and performances) that is one of Pacino's best ever (his insight into the twitch and the phone call with Leon bear testimony to this and make eengross you even more). Chris Sarandon's performace benefits from the commentary; sadly no oscar for him (George Burns The Sunshine Boys? Please???)

But who need awards etc when YOU enjoy the film.

If you love and appreciate what a director & actors put into a film then this will not disapoint.