2.  DVD menus have existed for as long as DVDs, and are primarily used
functionally with little creativity or artistic flair. As the DVD menu only exists
as a means of reaching the main feature it is often ignored or
neglected, leading to the vast majority of menus looking very similar; there
is a standard format for menus that almost every DVD follows.
 However, DVD menus have been used to great effect and there are some
examples of menus with extremely creative designs that use the format in
surprising and innovative ways. However, these are uncommon and the DVD
menu will likely remain extremely functional and basic in most cases.

3.  DVD menus are typically entirely made of either motion
graphics, stills or scenes from the feature, or a composite of both.
 The position of text in a menu varies, but is usually inserted either
directly over a graphic such as a box or strip or, more rarely, in
different positions reflecting the context of the film.
 Graphics can also be used to tie the menu into the main feature;
some DVDs will have the menu mock or copy a prominent interface
or other asset from the film; computer/TV screens, reflections in
windows and complicated gadgetry are popular choices.

4. Colour can be used in a DVD menu to reinforce a
theme in the main feature; if a particular colour or
texture is prominent or central to a film then the DVD
menu will likely follow this direction to introduce it to
the audience. The colour and style of the DVD menu
also gives clues as to the genre or style of movie it
opens.

5.  The DVD menu for ‘The Girl Who Leapt Through Time’ uses motion
graphics and compositing extremely effectively to provide a functional
gateway to the main feature, but also demonstrates exceptional creativity
and artistic merit.
 The fact that the menu prefaces an animated film makes it easier to
include motion graphics without breaking from the style of the film, a flaw
that the menus to almost all live-action films have. The graphics in the
menu are all assets from the feature itself and there is a consistent visual
style across both.
 The text used in the menu is also incorporated into the film’s aesthetic with
the help of motion graphics; instead of being separate from the scene the
menu text is an active part of it’s design in many sub menus while still
standing out and keeping the functionality of the menu.

6.  The DVD menu for ‘Transformers’ is designed match the context of the
main film; the menu appears as text and graphics orbiting and interacting
with a piece of alien technology, a key plot point in the film.
 The ‘frames’ rotating in 3D space show various images and clips from the
film, and are drawn into frame when a submenu is entered.
Strangely, instead of using this interesting and innovative mechanic to
make scene selection more immersive and dynamic, the menu instead
uses a typical four-panel format with superimposed looping clips and text.