Steven Spielberg strikes a conciliatory tone in his introduction to this two-disc presentation of his acclaimed revenge opus. Clearly responding to some criticism, he notes that he is “in no way, shape, or form” attacking Israel in the film. We’ll take him at his word; however, Munich is a harsh look at how the country sought to avenge the kidnapping and murder of its athletes at the 1972 Olympics by implementing its own campaign of sanctioned murder.

Disavowed Mossad agent Avner (Eric Bana), wrestles with moral issues as he leads his team in executing 11 terrorists involved in the Munich crimes. What’s there to gain from more killing when his targets will simply be replaced by others? How is Israel different from the terrorists when it suborns murder? At 164 minutes, things get a little tedious between assassinations. But the overall impact is powerful, and it’s all beautifully photographed by Janusz Kaminski.

Disc one contains the film by itself; as a result, the 2.35:1 anamorphic presentation looks terrific, with no details lost despite the many dark scenes. The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio mix is exceptional, too. The producers varied the sound effects for each explosion, and all the intricate sounds are distinctly audible.

Six featurettes on disc two cover various elements of the production. All the principals are accounted for, but noticeably absent is any substantial documentary information on the historic event itself.

Munich doesn’t approach Spielberg’s other weighty dramas, but it’s a thought-provoking examination of vengeance and what becomes of those who seek it.