Though overlooked by audiences during not one but two theatrical runs last year, Wonder Boys did receive considerable critical acclaim, and is worth seeing if you enjoy adult, literate comedy. However, the DVD features a disclaimer at the beginning of the film (rare for a major studio, as they usually try to hide these things) stating that "This film has been edited for content."

However, the alternation is a single one, and according to director Curtis Hanson at a Q&A back in 2000, was done out of sensitivity. In the theatrical cut of the film, during a lengthy discussion between the Michael Douglas and Robert Downey, Jr., characters, a reference was made to the alleged suicide of famous film star Alan Ladd (aka Shane.) The Ladd estate complained, as Ladd's suicide has long been the subject of much rumor and speculation, but never proved. Ladd did "accidentally" shoot himself, and six months later "accidentally" overdose. The case has never been solved to anyone's, let alone to the family of Ladd's, satisfaction.

Thus, the mention has been deleted from home video versions of the film. Looking closely at the scene in question, it clearly does contain an obvious and rather abrupt cut. However, since this was a director-approved omission, it is unlikely the film will ever be re-released unedited. Unless, of course, the "Ladd case" is ever finally closed...