DVD Easter Eggs
In the computer world, many
people like to search for hidden features in programs and operating systems. Since many of
these people (including myself) now own DVD players, it was only a matter of time until
the search began for similar hidden features on DVDs. The search was not in vain. Many
such hidden features, from the spectacular to the mundane, have been found. In this
section I will not only try to identify some of the hidden features, commonly called
easter eggs, but also provide a few tips for locating your own.
Please drop a line
using the Feedback to report any
features you find, add any tips to locate them or just to make general comments or
suggestions. If you make a suggestion that appears here you will receive credit for it.
Locating Hidden Features:
If you have a DVD drive on your computer this task is a bit easier. Start
by moving your mouse around the screen and take note of anything that is highlighted. This
is especially useful in elaborate animated menus but has also been seen to work on rather
simple menus as well. Look for something that is not part of the menu that highlights. For
example, the menu itself may be presented as a list or words on a background. Check
objects in the background to see if you can select them. If you know something about the
movie look for objects that held some importance in the film. For example, on the Alien
DVD one sub menu has a pool of acid. The acid burning through the deck was a
dramatic moment in the film and sure enough, the pool of acid in the background is
selectable and leads to a hidden feature.
If you have a DVD player you can do the same things only it may take a
little more time. Experiment with the directional or arrow keys on your remote. Start at
the top of the first menu and try moving in each direction. If the menu looks like it
onlys permits movement from left to right, try the up and down arrow keys at every
selection. If the normal flow is up and down try left and right at every selection. The
trick here is to attempt to move off the usual menu selections. You can't beak anything by
using the arrow keys so be creative! Have some fun with it but most important, be patient.
Some hidden features are a bit more tricky than others. Some can only be
activated if some event has occurred before trying the feature. For example, some hidden
menu selections are only activated after you have visited the menu, moved to a
specific selection on the menu and returned to the menu once again. Take some notes as to the
combinations you have tried.
Some studios like to use the same or similar objects to view the hidden
features. The studio logo is always a good place to try. Another popular place to hide
features is in a list of films one of the actors has appeared in. Many times you will see
a simple list of movies or filmography. Try highlighting each item of the list. Sometimes
they will provide a trailer for that movie.
