A Box With Too Much Bite

I'm thrilled that Teeth is coming out on DVD. After I saw it in Cannes, I was afraid that my first time would also be my last. I didn't know if it would get picked up or if it would ever see the light of day again, even on DVD. I thought that one of the best films I'd ever seen was in danger of slipping through the cinematic cracks. I was shrieking with delight to see it get a theatrical release, but I think I'm even more ecstatic that it's being released on DVD. This way, more people can get a chance to see and love it. And I firmly believe that it will gain a huge cult following. So, hooray for DVD.

That being said, what is up with the cover art on the front of the DVD box? Apparently, it's being released as part of a line called "Dimension Extreme." Well, yeah, it's extreme, but why does extreme translate to smut? This cover completely trivializes Teeth and makes it look like a freaking porno. When I first saw it, I was pleased. I was like, "Hell yeah, she's sexy and empowered." As I mulled it over, I changed my mind. She's represented TOO sexually. She's depicted as a sexual predator, and that's not what she is at all. It's also just plain, old-fashioned objectification and exploitation to turn a trick...I mean, a profit. It sends the wrong message. It's an insult, the epitome of cheap, and Teeth deserves so much better.

Then again, it's just a box, right? I mean, I'm sure people who seek it out and purchase it already like it. And it's not like it's going to be on the main display at Best Buy next to Alvin and the Chipmunks or something. I'm mad about the cover, but I'll be damned if I let a cover prevent me from supporting the film, Mitchell Lichtenstein, and Jess Weixler.

Whoa, hold it. I just went on Amazon to get the picture of the DVD so I could include it in this post, but they've changed it. I confirmed it by checking with the site that released the news of the cover art in the first place. They have since reported that the cover art has been officially changed. Now, it's the Teeth poster.

Wow. I'm totally flustered. That's great. Good move, Dimension Extreme! Damn right you changed it! They must have known I meant business. Seriously, though, this was a wise decision. It leaves some mystery, and it's classier and way more appropriate.

Still, this would be my ideal cover:

While the revised art does fit really well with the film's intentions, I think this one would capture the spirit and the tone a little better. It's more fun and playful and makes her look sweet and innocent, like she is, but with a dash of mischief. In my opinion, that's the perfect combo.

But, I'm really just splitting hairs here. I'll take the revised DVD cover art any day. It's absolutely wonderful, and it IS the official poster, after all. I was so outraged about the original concept. This is a pleasant surprise and a HUGE improvement, and it shows Teeth the proper respect. It feels like Mitchell Lichtenstein and not like pervy Dimension Extreme. I'm very, very happy. See? If you believe, change IS possible. Don't give up on your dreams, kids!