Review of New England Patriots Super Bowl XXXVIII DVD

The New England Patriots have been in two of the most dramatic and exciting (at least at the end of the game) Super Bowls ever played. Twice they have won the game in the waning seconds after driving from deep in their own territory into field-goal range.

Super Bowl XXXVIII was one of these two Super Bowls; it saw the Pats defeat the Carolina Panthers 32-29 on a last-second boot by Adam Vinatieri.

The DVD of said clash features about an hour-long recap of the Patriots’ entire 2003 season, including highlights of every single regular-season and postseason game, with extensive film of the Super Bowl.

The disc chronicles New England's 14-2 record that culminated in two playoff victories, one against the Tennessee Titans in the AFC Divisional Playoffs (17-14) and one against Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship (24-14).

As always, the season-long segment has sideline and locker room scenes, as well as player commentary throughout. My only quibble is that it would have been nice to have more details on the individual games and more inside information in general.

Nevertheless, this highlights package is complete and well done.

But the best thing on the DVD is the entire game broadcast is on it. That, in and of itself, makes it worth owning if you are a Patriots fan. This faithful reproduction makes it a keepsake for any NFL fan.

Another outstanding feature is the "ESPN NFL Match-Up" segment, which breaks down the Super Bowl. This was an absolutely superb bit that dissected the game and its key plays.

The other bonus features include media day coverage (featuring player interviews before the game); post-game interviews and comments by players, coach Bill Belichick, and owner Robert Kraft; and another short piece called “Quick Hits,” which has even more interviews with players, coaches, and media about the Super Bowl.

All in all, this is a very well-done package and is highly recommended for New England Patriots fans.


Disclaimer: I am a die hard New England Patriots fan and am totally biased in this review.

NFL Films - Super Bowl XXXVIII - New England Patriots Championship Video