On the other hand, the special features section of the DVD is quite impressive. In terms of promotional material, there are four TV spots, two international trailers and a domestic trailer – all of which are more palatable than watching the entire film – and a brief conversation between Crowe and Scott that features them joking around more than saying anything about the actual film.

Next are three music videos featuring Russell Crowe’s band, The Ordinary Fear of God, performing a selection of their original music. The videos themselves are hugely unimpressive but the music isn’t all that bad. One song is titled “One Good Year,” and appears to be shot on the film’s location but the connection seemingly ends there. At least I can’t remember hearing any of these songs in the movie.

The main event is a feature entitled Postcards from Provence. Billed on the DVD as a “unique behind-the-scenes experience,” it gives you the opportunity to watch the entire film accompanied by audio commentary by Scott and screenwriter Marc Klein as well as seamless branching into behind-the-scenes footage. Like so many Ridley Scott DVDs, this provides a fascinating peek behind-the-scenes and explicates that Scott is one of the best and most considerate filmmakers for DVD-philes. Watching the extra material is a joy and it’s fun to hear Scott gush over what a lovely experience the making of the film was for him.

I do admit A Good Year grew on me as it progressed, especially when Scott ditched his hyperactive mode of filmmaking in favor of letting the story unfold naturally. In the end, I mildly enjoyed my time spent vicariously in the South of France, but it was never grand.

Movie Grade: C+
DVD Grade: A-
Overall Grade: B