Evita - 15th Anniversary Edition was released last week on blu-ray. Finally, I can retire the lackluster DVD release from 1998.

Evita is the popular Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical that won multiple Tonys in 1980. It tells the story of Eva Peron (Madonna), who rose from poverty to become the first lady of Argentina, stepping over every obstacle with determination. Appointed the “Spiritual Leader of Argentina” she was equal part sinner and saint. The entire show is seen through the eyes of Che Guevara (Antonio Banderas), who plays a multitude of roles throughout the musical.

While light on the history, it makes an entertaining 135 minutes. The music is good, and the lyrics are intelligent. Madonna’s performance won her a Golden Globe (the movie also won a Golden Globe for Best Picture-Musical/Comedy.) A new song “You Must Love Me” won an Oscar for Best Original Song.

The 2.35x1 picture is wonderful, and puts the old non-anamorphic DVD to shame. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack is powerful, and is quite crankable.

Extras include a making-of documentary, a music video, and a teaser trailer. The bulk of the supplements on the Criterion Laserdisc, including a commentary by director Alan Parker, are missing--it looks like I will have to keep the laserdisc.

But when I want to marvel at the picture and sound, I will pull out this blu-ray!