DVD PLAYHOUSE—MAY 2010
By
Allen Gardner
AVATAR (20th Century Fox) James Cameron beat his own title as box office champ, set with Titanic over a decade ago, with this eye-popping sci-fi epic about a paraplegic Marine name Sully (Sam Worthington), who takes the form of an “avatar,” or virtual being, to go undercover on the planet Pandora, attempting to infiltrate the native Na’vi to gather intelligence that will aid a joint corporate and military operation to rape the planet of its natural resources, destroying its indigenous population in the process. When Sully suddenly “goes native,” he locks horns with the company CEO (Giovanni Ribisi) and his gung-ho commanding officer (Stephen Lang, in a wonderful, scenery-chewing turn from a long-underrated actor). Thought of by many scholars and film buffs as a “game-changer” as much as the first Star Wars film was—and they may be right. While Cameron’s politically-correct storyline and subtext are fields which have been plowed many times before (and much better, in films like Little Big Man and Dances With Wolves), his seamless blend of CGI special effects and live action is truly awesome, and though this viewer found himself questioning certain points of logic after watching the film, while you’re there, it is one hell of a ride. Our advice: hang on and enjoy, although it goes without saying that much will be lost on the small screen, and in 2-D. Sigourney Weaver, Zoe Saldana, and Michelle Rodriguez are fine in support. Packaged as a DVD/Blu-ray combo, with, surprisingly, no extras, although Cameron is doubtless working on a “director’s cut” as this is being written! Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
INVICTUS (Warner Bros.) True story of post-Apartheid South Africa in which newly-elected (and first Black) President Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman), convinces his country’s national rugby team captain (Matt Damon) to beat the odds and win the World Cup, in hopes of bringing the bitterly-divided country together. Freeman and Damon both deliver their usual fine turns, as does a capable supporting cast, with director Clint Eastwood showing his master’s hand with restraint behind the camera. What brings the film down to movie-of-the-week territory is Anthony Peckham’s script, with its self-conscious sense of nobility and a greater emphasis on rugby than on character (and there are some great ones that are unmined here) and story. Too bad, because this could have been another feather in Eastwood’s very impressive cinematic cap. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurette; Music trailer. BD bonuses: Picture-in-picture commentary from cast and crew; BD-exclusive featurettes. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
STAGECOACH (Criterion) When 25 year-old Orson Welles was asked what masters of the cinema he studied prior to making his directing debut with Citizen Kane, Welles answered “That’s easy: John Ford, John Ford, and John Ford.” Welles reportedly screened Ford’s 1939 masterpiece Stagecoach 40 times as his only film school, and he obviously got it right. A disparate group of strangers (Claire Trevor, John Carradine, Thomas Mitchell, and John Wayne, who became a star with his turn as the Ringo Kid) ride in a stagecoach, encountering marauding Apaches, class conflict and the human condition in the film that raised the western from its status as B-movie fixture, to A-list greatness. Beautifully-restored and remastered in high-def. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by western scholar Jim Kitses; Bucking Broadway, a 1917 silent feature by Ford with a new musical score by Donald Sosin; 1968 interview with Ford; Interview with filmmaker and Ford biographer Peter Bogdanovich; Interview with Ford’s grandson, Dan Ford; Featurettes and video essays; 1949 radio adaptation of Stagecoach; Trailer. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
CRAZY HEART (20th Century Fox) Jeff Bridges plays washed-up country singer “Bad” Blake, a cross between Kris Kristofferson and Hank Williams, Sr., who finds a tenuous, and rocky, road to redemption in the arms of a young journalist (Maggie Gyllenhaal) who tries to save the almost-great artist from himself. Bridges won a much-deserved Best Actor Oscar for his double-barreled performance, but he is matched by Gyllenhall every step of the way. Robert Duvall (who also produced) and Colin Farrell are fine in support. Assured writing/directing debut from Scott Cooper. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes and songs; Featurette. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
DIRTY DANCING LIMITED KEEPSAKE EDITION (Lions Gate) Fully-loaded box set of the '80s classic that made a star of the late Patrick Swayze and brought '60s nostalgia to its zenith. Jennifer Grey stars as a wide-eyed Jewish teen who travels with her family to a Catskills resort in 1962, where her eyes are opened to love, sex and some harsh lessons in reality. Film occassionally treads the line into sentimentality and melodrama, but holds up remarkably well, thanks in large part to the chemistry between the two leads, which is palpable. 2 disc set. Bonuses include: Commentary by writer/producer Eleanor Bergstein, choreographer Kenny Ortega, and other key crew members; Featurettes; Trivia track; Tributes to Swayze, Jerry Orbach, director Emile Ardolino; Vintage featurette; Photo gallery; Fan reel; Trailer; Outtakes; Music videos; Mulit-angle dance sequences; Cast interviews; Original screen tests; Deleted, alternate and extended scenes. Widescreen. DTS 6.1 and Dolby 5.1 surround.
MYSTERY TRAIN (Criterion) Another deadpan winner from the inimitable canon of Jim Jarmusch. Disaffected Japanese tourists, an Italian widow, and a disgruntled Brit all come together in Memphis, TN. Great combination of character study/vignettes and homage to one of the United States' greatest cities, and the musical legacy it spawned. Featuring an eclectic cast that includes The Clash's Joe Strummer, Screamin' Jay Hawkins, Cinque Lee, Steve Buscemi and the one-and-only voice of Tom Waits. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Q&A with Jarmusch, responding to questions sent in by fans; Excerpts from documentary on Screamin' Jay Hawkins; Documentary on film's locations the musical history of Memphis; Photo gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.
EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES (Sony) Bredan Fraser plays a distraught father whose two young children are stricken with a seemingly-incurable genetic disorder. Enter reclusive medical researcher Harrison Ford, whom Fraser and wife Keri Russell must convince to help them not only find a cure for their children, but convince the medical establishment to jump on board, as well. Earnest to a fault, which is precisely what sinks this well-meaning film from the get-go. Plays like a Lifetime M.O.W. with an A-list cast, who do their best, but can't rise above a pedestrian script. Ford, who also co-executive produced, can certainly do better. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Interviews with cast, crew and the family whose story inspired the film. BD extras: movieIQ+synch and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround.
THE YOUNG VICTORIA (Sony) Emily Blunt plays the legendary monarch Queen Victoria, during the earliest years of her long reign as England’s most venerable royal. Rupert Friend plays German Prince Albert, who steals Victoria’s heart in a whirlwind romance that captivates the young princess, but leaves a nation divided. Beautiful down to the smallest detail, with Blunt delivering a charming performance (perhaps too charming) as a headstrong young woman who quickly finds herself over her head in life and love, but utterly lacking in energy. Like a beautiful period painting of the 19th century, the film just sits there, and never gains any sort of life that draws in the viewer. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted and extended scenes; Featurettes. BD bonuses: MovieIQ and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
WALKABOUT (Criterion) Nicolas Roeg’s film about a young British brother and sister (Jenny Agutter and Luc Roeg, the director’s son) who find themselves abandoned in the Australian outback, and must learn to survive with the help of an Aboriginal boy (David Gulpilil), who is on his “walkabout,” a rite of passage in which Aboriginal boys must survive in the wilderness on their own. An absolute masterpiece of a film, ravishing visually, aurally, and emotionally—everything a movie should be. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by Roeg and Agutter; Interviews with Luc Roeg and Agutter; Documentary on Gulpilil; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
ELECTRA DIRECTOR’S CUT (20th Century Fox) Jennifer Garner returns as Electra, brought back from the dead after buying the farm to Colin Farrell’s blade in Daredevil. Reclaiming her position as the world’s deadliest assassin, Electra must hone her skills to their finest point in order to fulfill her latest mission, which could affect (gasp!) the fate of the world. Garner is the whole show in this disappointing follow up to one of the best (and most underrated) super hero movies of recent years. If the filmmakers had spent as much time on the script as they did CGI pyrotechnics, there might have been one heck of a kick-ass feminist comic book movie here. As it is, it’s a dud. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by director Rob Bowman, editor Kevin Stitt, Deleted scenes with optional commentary; Alternate/extended scenes with optional commentary; Documentaries and featurettes; Multi-angle dailies. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
NINE (Sony) Rob Marshall, who hit Oscar paydirt with his cinematic adaptation of Chicago, just hits dirt with this ill-conceived and executed version of another hit Broadway musical, this one based on Federico Fellini’s iconic 8 ½. Daniel Day-Lewis stars as a famous film director who undergoes an emotional breakdown, trying to juggle a bevy of women and an out-of-control production, causing him to take stock of his life in a series of increasingly outrageous musical vignettes. Some eye-popping moments, courtesy of some of the world’s most beautiful and glamorous actresses (Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman, Marion Cotillard, Fergie, Kate Hudson and Sophia Loren), but even they can’t save this, which should be a lesson for all filmmakers that some musicals simply aren’t meant to move from stage to screen, even if they’re based on great films! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by Marshall and producer Rob DeLuca; 8 featurettes; 3 music videos. BD bonuses: Featurette with Sophia Loren; Q & A session with cast; MovieIQ and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
LEGION (Sony) Paul Bettany plays archangel Michael who has returned to Earth in order to protect a waitress who is pregnant with the new messiah, and soon to be under siege from some really nasty demons from that grungy netherworld that only exists in movies like this that are heavy on CGI and short on logic. Curiously lifeless and talky film for one that is marketed as an R-rated bloodfest. What’s worse, is that the CGI is even more uninspired than the talk! And what’s Dennis Quaid doing in this movie? We hope everyone got paid. A lot. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes. BD bonuses: Picture-in-picture commentary; BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
DARK NATURE (Troma/Filmworks) A mother and daughter escape to the Scottish highlands for a holiday, only to be greeted with an escalating series of disturbances that soon has them fighting for their lives. Quite suspenseful, scary and not bad of its type, with fine turns from the two leads. Be warned that it is VERY bloody, however, and not for the faint-of-heart. Bonuses: Commentary by director Marc de Launay; Featurettes; Trailer. Short film be de Launay. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 surround.
TOKYO SONATA (E1 Entertainment) Director Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s acclaimed story of a contemporary Japanese family coming apart after its patriarch get laid off from his long-held job. As the situation grows more dire, the family must resort to increasingly desperate measures to survive. Honest, biting and heart-breaking examination of the dissolution of the Japanese middle class in the current financial climate. Bonuses: Featurette; Q&A with cast and crew. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE DUKES (E1 Entertainment) Fun story of do-wop group whose heyday was in the early ‘60s that are now barely getting by playing oldies gigs. After stumbling upon a scheme to steal 35 pounds of gold, the aging crooners must sharpen their skills they learned on the streets growing up, before music turned them around. Warm and winning comedy/drama has a terrific cast: Chazz Palminteri, Peter Bogdanovich, and Robert Davi (who also co-wrote, produced and directed), and is sure to leave you with a smile on your face. Bonuses: Commentary by Davi and cinematographer Michael Goi; Interviews with cast and crew; Deleted scenes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
BIBLE STORIES Sony releases two films based on classic Biblical tales: JEREMIAH stars Patrick Dempsey as the prophet who abandons his family in order to spread God’s message to the city of Jerusalem. Features fine support from legendary actors Klaus Maria Brandauer and Oliver Reed. SOLOMON stars Ben Cross as the newly-crowned king of Israel, whose idyllic rule is interrupted by the visit of the beautiful Queen of Sheba (Vivica A. Fox), with whom he falls deeply in love, and then into a deep depression when she is forced to return to her homeland. Nice turns from David Suchet, Anouk Aimee (as Bathsheba), and Max Von Sydow (as David). Both are well-done, with authentic, gritty atmosphere. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.
SOUTHERN GOTHIC (IFC Films) A burned out strip club bouncer named Hazel Fortune finds himself hitting bottom with self-destruction until redemption appears in the form of the daughter of the club’s new owner. When the innocent young girl is kidnapped by a psychotic vampire preacher (you read it right, and he’s played to the hilt by the great William Forsythe), Fortune must do battle with forces of darkness that, even in his own bleak state, he could never comprehend. Skillfully made shocker emphasizes mood over mayhem (although there’s plenty of that), raises it a bar or two above the usual horror fare. Bonuses: IFC Films trailers; Director’s trailer; Featurette. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ (IFC Films) Veteran actor Armand Assante stars as a hard-nosed U.S. military officer who finds himself in remote Romania, leading a train full of Marines and top-secret equipment towards a waiting NATO outpost. But when the corrupt stationmaster delays their departure, the spit-and-polish officer gets a bitter taste of old-fashioned Eastern European gamesmanship. Unique, funny and touching film was written and directed by 27 year-old wunderkind Christian Nemescu, who was tragically killed in a car accident before the film’s release, a real loss to the film community, based on this sharp socio-political satire. Assante gives the performance of his career. Winner of the Cannes Film Festival, 2007. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE DISAPPEARED (IFC Films) After his younger brother mysteriously vanishes in a London housing project, his older brother (Harry Treadaway) keeps hearing and seeing his brother’s ghost, and begins investigating the truth behind his disappearance. Chilling, atmospheric ghost story from debuting co-writer/director Johnny Kevorkian expertly builds suspense and chills. A winner. Bonuses: Featurettes; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
PAPER COVERS ROCK (IFC Films) A single mother (Jeannine Kaspar) loses custody of her young daughter after a failed suicide attempt. After being released into the custody of her controlling older sister, she must try to put the pieces of her life back together. Expertly-performed drama is reminiscent of the British “kitchen sink” dramas of the 1960s. Not always easy to watch, but honest and heartbreaking from start to finish. Bonuses: Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.
BY BRAKHAGE AN ANTHOLOGY, VOLUMES ONE AND TWO (Criterion) Priceless collection of works from experimental filmmaker/artist Stan Brakhage, who has made more than 350 films over a half-century, challenging all taboos in his exploration of “birth, sex, death, and the search for God.” In his quest, Brakhage turned his camera on explicit lovemaking, childbirth and an autopsy, among other subjects. Two disc collection features fifty-six of Brakhage’s most renowned works, all utterly unique and unforgettable. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Interviews with Brackhage; Commentary on selected films by Brakhage; Short film about Brakhage; 1990 video interview with Brakhage; Audio recordings of two lectures by Brakhage. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
YESTERDAY WAS A LIE (E1 Entertainment) Clever and engaging blend of sci-fi and film noir as a girl with a fondness for the bottle (Kipleigh Brown) finds herself playing detective, on the trail of a reclusive genius a la Howard Hughes, with a sexy lounge singer (Chase Masterson) and her loyal partner (Mik Scriba) backing her up. Beautifully-shot and designed, almost resembling a lower budget version of Sin City. Bonuses: Commentary by director James Kerwin, Brown, and Masterson; Featurettes; Photo gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
JERMAL (Indiepix) Drama from Indonesia about a 12 year-old boy who is sent to live with his father, following his mother’s passing. The father, unaware that he had a son, tries to adjust the boy to life aboard a jermal (fishing platform raised on stilts in the middle of the ocean), where he works as a foreman. Fascinating and powerful story of survival and redemption. Bonuses: Bloopers; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.
DEAR JOHN (Sony/Screen Gems) A young couple (Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried) is forced to separate after the man must finish his military service and the woman her college education, they pass the time by sending an endless stream of love letters to each other. When the war in Iraq begins, however, their separation is extended indefinitely. Sentimental story adapted from a Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook) novel, isn’t nearly as hokey as it could be, with likable turns from the two leads. A “chick flick” to be sure, but a watchable one, thanks in large part to director Lasse Hallstrom’s sure hand. Bonuses: Alternate ending; Outtakes; Deleted and alternate scenes; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
ALL MY FRIENDS ARE FUNERAL SINGERS (Indiepix) Big hit at last year’s Sundance Film Festival stars Angela Bettis in a whimsical tale of a fortune teller who shares her home with a group of ghosts who help her remove clients’ ailments, pesky spiritual visitors, and offer advice from the “other side.” When a mysterious light appears in the woods, the ghosts realize they are trapped and must flee, leaving the fortune teller to ponder life without the only family she’s ever had. Quirky, clever film will stay with you. Bonuses: Featurettes; Music video; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
BLU BAYOU Some of this month’s most-notable Blu-ray releases include: Blue Underground releases the spaghetti Western classic DJANGO, starring Franco Nero as a silent gunman who wanders the west, dragging a coffin behind him, which carries a deadly Gattling gun! Arguably the most influential spaghetti oater next to Sergio Leone’s “Man With No Name” trilogy, Django inspired countless unofficial sequels and knock-offs, none of which matched director Sergio Corbucci’s 1966 original in style, tongue-in-cheek humor, and sheer ferocity. Bonuses: Interviews with Nero and assistant director Ruggero Deodato; Featurette on Nero; 1968 documentary about the spaghetti western phenomenon; Trailers; Intro by Nero. Widescreen. DTS-HD mono. CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD is a gorefest from notorious splatter maestro Lucio Fulci, in which the gates of hell have been opened, releasing flesh-hungry demons who wreak havoc on unsuspecting city-dwellers. 1980 shocker was cut heavily for U.S. release to obtain an R-rating. If it’s your thing, you can’t beat Fulci for bloody, undead mayhem! Bonuses: Documentary on film’s production; Interviews with cast and crew; Poster and still galleries; Trailers; Radio spots. Widescreen. DTS 7.1 surround. Palisades Tartan Extreme releases 9 SONGS, director Michael Winterbottom’s experimental mix of hardcore sexuality and rock n’ roll, as a young London couple play out their relationship between the sheets to the tunes of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Dandy Warhols, and other top bands on the scene several years back. Plays more like an extended short, running just over an hour. Widescreen. DTS-HD 5.1 surround. Sony releases THE KARATE KID, one of the ‘80s classic Summer movies about a “new kid” from Jersey named Daniel (Ralph Macchio) who moves to a tough area of L.A. and is immediately set up by a gang of martial arts bullies. In order to protect himself and save face in front of his first love (Elizabeth Shue), he studies karate under the sage tutelage of his building’s elderly handyman, Mr. Miagi (Pat Morita). Cheesy and dated, to be sure, but still every bit as winning as it was over 25 years ago. Bonuses: Pop-up trivia, interviews, and extras; Commentary by director John G. Avildsen, writer Robert Mark Kamen, Macchio and Morita; Featurettes. The same can’t be said, sadly, for its sequel, THE KARATE KID II, which takes Daniel and Miagi back to the latter’s home of Okinawa, where Miagi must settle a score with an old rival and Daniel must face off again against a more powerful foe over the honor of a girl he falls for. As ridiculous and cloying as the first film was winning and fresh. Bonuses: Featurette. Both are widescreen, Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround. 20th Century Fox releases Lee Tamahori’s intense thriller THE EDGE, starring Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin as an intellectual billionaire and philandering photographer, respectively, who get lost in the Alaskan wilderness and must join forces to survive the elements, in spite of the fact that both are vying for the attentions of Hopkins’ young wife (Elle Macpherson). Dynamite thriller penned by David Mamet will keep you on the edge (pun intended) of your seat! Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. MARKED FOR DEATH is a by-the-numbers actioner starring Steven Seagal, already starting to look a bit hefty for an action hero, as a Fed doing battle against vicious Jamaican drug lords. Some potent action sequences, and lots of bone-crunching violence, but little else. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. Three of funny man Mel Brooks’ best receive the Blu treatment this month: HIGH ANXIETY is Brooks’ 1977 send-up of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thrillers, resulting in lots of classic Brooks routines. Brooks plays a renowned psychiatrist with a fear of heights who finds himself in the middle of a murder conspiracy after taking over the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous. Harvey Korman and (especially) Cloris Leachman are side-splitting in support. Look fast for co-writer (and future Oscar-winner) Barry Levinson as an angry bellboy. From 1981 HISTORY OF THE WORLD, PART I features zany escapes set throughout history, from before the birth of Christ, to the Roman Empire, to the Spanish Inquisition, and beyond. Featuring many of Brooks’ “company” of players, including Madeline Kahn, Dom DeLuise, Harvey Korman, Cloris Leachman and Sid Caesar. Narrated by Orson Welles! Finally, 1993’s ROBIN HOOD MEN IN TIGHTS, Brooks’ send-up of the Robin Hood legend, remains one of his lesser efforts, but still has plenty of big laughs and clever bits making it worth a look. Cary Elwes stars as the dashing rogue of Sherwood Forest, with solid support from Richard Lewis, Roger Rees, Tracey Ullman, and Brooks himself as (what else?) a rabbi. Bonuses on all: Featurettes; Trivia track; Isolated score track. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
DON’T TOUCH THAT DIAL! NBC/Universal releases THE VIRGINIAN, THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON, based on Owen Wister’s 1902 western novel, stars James Drury in the first 90 minute-long TV oater, which ran on NBC from 1962-71. Also starring the legendary Lee J. Cobb, Doug McClure and guest starring a who’s-who of stars and up-and-comers including George C. Scott, Lee Marvin, Bette Davis, Robert Duvall, and many more, The Virginian was the first western series with an air of class to it, predating shows like “The Big Valley” by several years. 10 disc set. Bonuses: Interviews with surviving cast members. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. HBO releases TRUE BLOOD, THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON, featuring all 12 season two episodes where the denizens of Bon Temps, LA. find themselves in increasingly hot undead water as a religious cult out to destroy vampires turns up the heat on their “mission,” and a mysterious woman (Michelle Forbes) arrives on the scene, seemingly casting a spell over the entire town. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; Commentary by cast and crew. BD features: Character perspectives; Flashback/flash foreword interactive timeline; Trivia/hint track; Pro and anti-vampire feeds, where you choose which camp you support and receive online updates. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround. MPI releases two new "Honeymooners" titles: from 1976 THE HONEYMOONERS RETURN stars Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows and Jane Kean, which deals with the train wreck of the Kramdens’ 25th wedding anniversary, while THE HONEYMOONERS VALENTINE SPECIAL, from 1978, tells the zany story of Alice’s attempt to surprise Ralph with a new suit for Valentine’s Day. Bonuses: Vintage sketches. Both are full screen, Dolby 2.0 mono. Sony releases THE THREE STOOGES COLLECTION, VOLUME EIGHT, 1955-1959, featuring the boys’ final 32 shorts and also marking the end of a comedic era. Following the 1955 death of Stooge Shemp Howard, Moe and Larry replaced him with Vaudeville veteran Joe Besser, whom many feel raised the bar on the Stooges’ humor during their final years. You be the judge. 3 disc set. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono. New Video/Lifetime releases a series of estrogen-aimed tear-jerkers: THE TWO MR. KISSELS is based on the scandalous true story of wealthy brothers (John Stamos and Anson Mount) both of whom were found dead under mysterious circumstances, with their wives as key suspects. Not bad of its type, bolstered by a solid cast of actors. RACING FOR TIME stars Charles S. Dutton (who also directed) and Elizabeth Pena in the true story of a Texas prison guard (Dutton) who creates a track program for some of the most hardcore female offenders at the Texas Correctional Youth Authority. A very well-made film that avoids any pitfalls of sentimentality. Dutton is, as always, excellent. GIRL, POSITIVE tells the story of a teenage girl (Andrea Bowen) who finds out that her recently-deceased boyfriend was an IV drug user, and HIV positive. Thinking that she may have contracted the disease from him, she turns to a sympathetic teacher (Jennie Garth) for support and advice. Tough subject matter, sensitively handled. TO BE FAT LIKE ME stars Kaley Cuoco as an attractive and popular high school student athlete whose dreams of a college softball scholarship are thwarted after an injury. So, she hatches an ingenious plan: to don a fat suit, enroll at a rival high school and make a documentary film about how personality can outshine physical appearance. Solid film with a strong moral message. MORE OF ME stars Molly Shannon as an overextended career woman and mother who finds herself literally coming apart at the seams, turning into three separate personalities to cope with her stressful life. While the psychic spilt is successful at first, she soon finds that it’s wreaking havoc on her marriage to her understanding husband (Steven Weber) and the rest of her life, as well. All films are full screen, Dolby 2.0 stereo. Acorn Media releases more great titles from the UK: TRIAL & RETRIBUTION SET 4, from “Prime Suspect” creator Lynda La Plante, is a feature-length drama series which traces a crime from commission to its day in court, much like “Law & Order.” David Hayman and Victoria Smurfit star. 3 episodes on 3 discs. Bonuses: Photo galleries; Bio on La Plante; Cast filmographies. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. RAFFLES, THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, tells the story of a gentleman thief (Anthony Valentine) in Victorian England. A master of accents and disguise, Raffles is assisted by school chum “Bunny” Manders (Christopher Strauli) and pursued by dogged Scotland Yard Inspector Mackenzie (Victor Carin). Fun, tongue-in-cheek series. 14 episodes on 4 discs cover the entire 1977 season and series. Bonuses: Production notes; Bio of author W.E. Hornung. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. JENNIE, LADY RANDOLPH CHURCHILL stars Lee Remick as the American mother of Sir Winston Churchill (Warren Clarke). This was Remick’s most honored role, winning her a 1974 Best Actress Golden Globe and BAFTA Award, as well as an Emmy nomination. Also stars notable British actors such as Christopher Cazenove, Sian Phillips, and Jeremy Brett. Seven episodes on two discs. Bonuses: Bio on Remick; Cast filmographies. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. A BIT OF A DO, THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, stars David Jason as the head of a stellar ensemble cast who play families from opposite sides of the tracks who are forced together when their respective son and daughter must get married one step ahead of the shotgun. Funny, perceptive series takes a barbed look at England’s class system, still very much alive when this first aired in 1989. 13 episodes on 4 discs. Bonuses: Interviews with cast and crew; Filmographies. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. VAN DER VALK MYSTERIES 2, stars Barry Foster as an intrepid Amsterdam police inspector who throws the book aside when tackling a new murder case and instead relies on his finely-honed instincts. Smart, tough policier from 1973 was a huge hit on the other side of the Pond, and is justly being released on DVD in North America for the fist time. 7 episodes on 2 discs. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. FOYLE’S WAR, SET 6, stars Michael Kitchen as a police inspector in post-WW II coastal England, who find his much-desired retirement being postponed by new cases which require his expertise. Three episodes on three discs. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Sony releases DROP DEAD DIVA THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON, stars Brooke Elliott as a glamorous, vain model who dies suddenly and finds herself reborn in the body of a plus-sized defense attorney. At turns funny and touching, with guest stars including Liza Minnelli, Rosie O'Donnell, Nia Vardalos and Delta Burke. 13 episodes on 3 discs. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
DOCUMENTARY DAYS Some of the best documentary and reality titles released this month include…MVD releases two more titles in its “Rare and Unseen” collection: JOHN LENNON RARE AND UNSEEN, featuring “Man of the Decade,” a British TV special on Lennon aired once in 1969; Aquarius, unseen since the ‘70s; “Weekend World,” a British news magazine from the ‘60s thought erased and unseen outside the UK; an interview with David Frost; Plus commentary from Lennon fans and friends including Phil Collins, Len Goodman and Tony Barrow. THE ROLLING STONES RARE AND UNSEEN features: unseen interview footage from Belfast, 1964; Unseen interviews with Mick Jagger and the rest of the band; Keith Richards at the Berlin Film Festival; Local TV news reports on the Stones thought lost, now restored. 45 years worth of rare footage on the band. Great stuff! Both are full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. I NEED THAT RECORD! THE DEATH (OR POSSIBLE SURVIVAL) OF THE INDEPENDENT RECORD STORE is a doc by guerilla filmmaker Brendan Toller which examines, with caustic humor, why roughly 3,000 independent record stores have closed across the U.S. in the past decade. Featuring commentary from indie rock artists and producers, as well as record execs who discuss the changing tide of how people are buying music. Bonuses: Over two hours of extra interviews. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. WE FUN ATLANTA, GA. INSIDE OUT is an inside look at the burgeoning alternative music scene in Atlanta, and some of the hottest bands that make it up, including the Black Lips, Mastodon and Deerhunter. Big hit on the film festival circuit. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. A&E/New Video release I KNOW WHAT I SAW, a look at how government and military officials have covered up UFO sightings and tangible evidence that we Earthlings have had contact with beings from worlds beyond. Pretty convincing, with some very credible witnesses and experts interviewed. Bonuses: Additional footage and outtakes; Bonus interviews. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. HOARDERS THE COMPLETE SEASON ONE takes a fascinating look at the lives of people whose inability to part with their belongings is so out of control, they are on the verge of a personal crisis. Two disc set is a fascinating look at the nature of compulsion, consumerism and obsession. Bonuses: Additional footage. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Indiepix releases PULLING JOHN, a look at All-American Armwrestling Champ John Brzenk as he struggles to hold onto his title against challengers from the hills of West Virginia, and the frozen regions of rural Russia. Shot over four years and five different continents, this is (believe it or not) a suspenseful, funny and engaging look at one man’s determination to stay the best in his field. Bonuses: Over 50 minutes of additional scenes; Graphic comic; Commentary by Brzenk and the filmmakers; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono. ICONS AMONG US, JAZZ IN THE PRESENT TENSE, explores the music and divergent influences that are shaping the world of jazz through interviews, performance footage, and the voices of the musicians themselves. From hip-hop to be-bop, from jam band to free form, this fascinating documentary covers it all. Bonuses: Featurettes; Additional performances; Photo gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Music Gate releases HIROMI IN LOVE, featuring Japanese recording star Hiromi Kanda performing hits from the Great American Songbook, including “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Unforgettable,” and “My Funny Valentine.” Sumptuously produced and filmed, providing Kanda an excellent showcase for her formidable talents. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Two extra songs. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Discovery Channel releases DIRTY JOBS SEASON 4, with host Mike Rowe showing us some of the most dirty, filthy, and disgusting jobs that real people actually do in the world. If it’s a chore that’s likely to turn your stomach, odds are the intrepid Rowe will find it and explore, expose and exploit it—ad nauseam! Five disc set features 30 episodes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Sony releases NOT THE MESSIAH HE’S A VERY NAUGHTY BOY, a terrific documentary, from the producers of Spamalot, offering up a rare, one-night only performance on the Pythons 40th anniversary in which surviving members Eric Idile, Terry Jones, Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam (only John Cleese is sadly missing) reunited on-stage to perform some of their most beloved sketches and bits, backed by the BBC Symphony and Chorus. Delightful fun from start to finish. Bonuses: Featurettes; Sing-along tracks. Also available on Blu-ray disc, featuring movieIQ and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround. DC3 releases CHICKENFOOT GET YOUR BUZZ ON LIVE, a live performance of the band, made up of a who’s-who of rock legends: Joe Satriani, Chad Smith, Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar. 13 tracks, all flawlessly recorded and filmed in Hi-def. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Widescreen. DTS 5.1 surround. Subpop releases DAVID CROSS BIGGER & BLACKER, recorded live at Boston’s Wilbur Theater, featuring the comic and his unique brand of humor, which can only be described as “scatological intellectualism.” Cross takes a page from the likes of Lenny Bruce, George Carlin and Richard Pryor as he mixes social philosophy with raunchy humor guaranteed to make the saltiest sailor blush. Bonuses: Extra concert footage. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Sexy Intellectual releases FRANK ZAPPA THE FREAK-OUT LIST, a fascinating look into the musical roots of avant-garde rock icon Frank Zappa. Features rare footage of Zappa’s pivotal band, The Mothers of Invention, at work and play, as well as interviews with its surviving members, as well as other Zappa friends, colleagues and intimates. Bonuses: Extended interviews; Featurette; Contributor biographies. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.
ANIMATION NATION Paramount/MTV release DARIA: THE COMPLETE ANIMATED SERIES, which follows the deadpan adventures of Daria Morgendorffer, an eccentric high schooler stuck in the dregs of middle America who just wants to be left alone so she can make fun of and belittle everyone around her. Very funny, barbed humor. Features all five seasons of the MTV hit, plus both Daria movies: “Is it Fall Yet?” and “Is it College Yet?” Bonuses: Pilot episode; Music video; Daria intros; Featurettes; Spin-off script; Cast and crew interviews. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Sony releases MR. BUMP PRESENTS PLANES, TRAINS AND DILLYMOBILES!, an animated compilation from the “Mr. Men Show” aimed at the little ones in your house, as Mr. Bump explores the world of cars, trains and ships. Bonuses: Mr. Bump game; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Warner Bros. releases THE BEST OF ELMO 2, featuring more of Elmo’s greatest moments on the PBS classic “Sesame Street.” Elmo shares the screen with the likes of Adam Sandler, Destiny’s Child, David Beckham, and The Goo Goo Dolls. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Buena Vista/Marvel release IRON MAN THE COMPLETE 1994 ANIMATED TELEVISION SERIES, offering all the animated adventures of billionaire inventor and super hero Tony Stark on 3 discs. Terrific animation and some inventive stories that should please the kids in your house, of any age. X-MEN VOLUME 5, features more adventures of everyone’s favorite mutant super heroes, this time with Captain America and Old Soldiers along for the ride. 2-disc set features 13 episodes. Both are full screen, Dolby 2.0 stereo. Finally, WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN REVELATION has the X-Men struggling to save the world, which will end in eight days if they don’t find a way to stop it. Five episodes of the hit series. Bonuses: Commentary by Craig Kyle, Greg Johnson, and Chris Yost; Trailer gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE YOUNG VICTORIA (Sony) Emily Blunt plays the legendary monarch Queen Victoria, during the earliest years of her long reign as England’s most venerable royal. Rupert Friend plays German Prince Albert, who steals Victoria’s heart in a whirlwind romance that captivates the young princess, but leaves a nation divided. Beautiful down to the smallest detail, with Blunt delivering a charming performance (perhaps too charming) as a headstrong young woman who quickly finds herself over her head in life and love, but utterly lacking in energy. Like a beautiful period painting of the 19th century, the film just sits there, and never gains any sort of life that draws in the viewer. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted and extended scenes; Featurettes. BD bonuses: MovieIQ and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
WALKABOUT (Criterion) Nicolas Roeg’s film about a young British brother and sister (Jenny Agutter and Luc Roeg, the director’s son) who find themselves abandoned in the Australian outback, and must learn to survive with the help of an Aboriginal boy (David Gulpilil), who is on his “walkabout,” a rite of passage in which Aboriginal boys must survive in the wilderness on their own. An absolute masterpiece of a film, ravishing visually, aurally, and emotionally—everything a movie should be. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by Roeg and Agutter; Interviews with Luc Roeg and Agutter; Documentary on Gulpilil; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
ELECTRA DIRECTOR’S CUT (20th Century Fox) Jennifer Garner returns as Electra, brought back from the dead after buying the farm to Colin Farrell’s blade in Daredevil. Reclaiming her position as the world’s deadliest assassin, Electra must hone her skills to their finest point in order to fulfill her latest mission, which could affect (gasp!) the fate of the world. Garner is the whole show in this disappointing follow up to one of the best (and most underrated) super hero movies of recent years. If the filmmakers had spent as much time on the script as they did CGI pyrotechnics, there might have been one heck of a kick-ass feminist comic book movie here. As it is, it’s a dud. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by director Rob Bowman, editor Kevin Stitt, Deleted scenes with optional commentary; Alternate/extended scenes with optional commentary; Documentaries and featurettes; Multi-angle dailies. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
NINE (Sony) Rob Marshall, who hit Oscar paydirt with his cinematic adaptation of Chicago, just hits dirt with this ill-conceived and executed version of another hit Broadway musical, this one based on Federico Fellini’s iconic 8 ½. Daniel Day-Lewis stars as a famous film director who undergoes an emotional breakdown, trying to juggle a bevy of women and an out-of-control production, causing him to take stock of his life in a series of increasingly outrageous musical vignettes. Some eye-popping moments, courtesy of some of the world’s most beautiful and glamorous actresses (Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman, Marion Cotillard, Fergie, Kate Hudson and Sophia Loren), but even they can’t save this, which should be a lesson for all filmmakers that some musicals simply aren’t meant to move from stage to screen, even if they’re based on great films! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by Marshall and producer Rob DeLuca; 8 featurettes; 3 music videos. BD bonuses: Featurette with Sophia Loren; Q & A session with cast; MovieIQ and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
LEGION (Sony) Paul Bettany plays archangel Michael who has returned to Earth in order to protect a waitress who is pregnant with the new messiah, and soon to be under siege from some really nasty demons from that grungy netherworld that only exists in movies like this that are heavy on CGI and short on logic. Curiously lifeless and talky film for one that is marketed as an R-rated bloodfest. What’s worse, is that the CGI is even more uninspired than the talk! And what’s Dennis Quaid doing in this movie? We hope everyone got paid. A lot. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes. BD bonuses: Picture-in-picture commentary; BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround.
DARK NATURE (Troma/Filmworks) A mother and daughter escape to the Scottish highlands for a holiday, only to be greeted with an escalating series of disturbances that soon has them fighting for their lives. Quite suspenseful, scary and not bad of its type, with fine turns from the two leads. Be warned that it is VERY bloody, however, and not for the faint-of-heart. Bonuses: Commentary by director Marc de Launay; Featurettes; Trailer. Short film be de Launay. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 surround.
TOKYO SONATA (E1 Entertainment) Director Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s acclaimed story of a contemporary Japanese family coming apart after its patriarch get laid off from his long-held job. As the situation grows more dire, the family must resort to increasingly desperate measures to survive. Honest, biting and heart-breaking examination of the dissolution of the Japanese middle class in the current financial climate. Bonuses: Featurette; Q&A with cast and crew. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE DUKES (E1 Entertainment) Fun story of do-wop group whose heyday was in the early ‘60s that are now barely getting by playing oldies gigs. After stumbling upon a scheme to steal 35 pounds of gold, the aging crooners must sharpen their skills they learned on the streets growing up, before music turned them around. Warm and winning comedy/drama has a terrific cast: Chazz Palminteri, Peter Bogdanovich, and Robert Davi (who also co-wrote, produced and directed), and is sure to leave you with a smile on your face. Bonuses: Commentary by Davi and cinematographer Michael Goi; Interviews with cast and crew; Deleted scenes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
BIBLE STORIES Sony releases two films based on classic Biblical tales: JEREMIAH stars Patrick Dempsey as the prophet who abandons his family in order to spread God’s message to the city of Jerusalem. Features fine support from legendary actors Klaus Maria Brandauer and Oliver Reed. SOLOMON stars Ben Cross as the newly-crowned king of Israel, whose idyllic rule is interrupted by the visit of the beautiful Queen of Sheba (Vivica A. Fox), with whom he falls deeply in love, and then into a deep depression when she is forced to return to her homeland. Nice turns from David Suchet, Anouk Aimee (as Bathsheba), and Max Von Sydow (as David). Both are well-done, with authentic, gritty atmosphere. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.
SOUTHERN GOTHIC (IFC Films) A burned out strip club bouncer named Hazel Fortune finds himself hitting bottom with self-destruction until redemption appears in the form of the daughter of the club’s new owner. When the innocent young girl is kidnapped by a psychotic vampire preacher (you read it right, and he’s played to the hilt by the great William Forsythe), Fortune must do battle with forces of darkness that, even in his own bleak state, he could never comprehend. Skillfully made shocker emphasizes mood over mayhem (although there’s plenty of that), raises it a bar or two above the usual horror fare. Bonuses: IFC Films trailers; Director’s trailer; Featurette. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ (IFC Films) Veteran actor Armand Assante stars as a hard-nosed U.S. military officer who finds himself in remote Romania, leading a train full of Marines and top-secret equipment towards a waiting NATO outpost. But when the corrupt stationmaster delays their departure, the spit-and-polish officer gets a bitter taste of old-fashioned Eastern European gamesmanship. Unique, funny and touching film was written and directed by 27 year-old wunderkind Christian Nemescu, who was tragically killed in a car accident before the film’s release, a real loss to the film community, based on this sharp socio-political satire. Assante gives the performance of his career. Winner of the Cannes Film Festival, 2007. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE DISAPPEARED (IFC Films) After his younger brother mysteriously vanishes in a London housing project, his older brother (Harry Treadaway) keeps hearing and seeing his brother’s ghost, and begins investigating the truth behind his disappearance. Chilling, atmospheric ghost story from debuting co-writer/director Johnny Kevorkian expertly builds suspense and chills. A winner. Bonuses: Featurettes; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
PAPER COVERS ROCK (IFC Films) A single mother (Jeannine Kaspar) loses custody of her young daughter after a failed suicide attempt. After being released into the custody of her controlling older sister, she must try to put the pieces of her life back together. Expertly-performed drama is reminiscent of the British “kitchen sink” dramas of the 1960s. Not always easy to watch, but honest and heartbreaking from start to finish. Bonuses: Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.
BY BRAKHAGE AN ANTHOLOGY, VOLUMES ONE AND TWO (Criterion) Priceless collection of works from experimental filmmaker/artist Stan Brakhage, who has made more than 350 films over a half-century, challenging all taboos in his exploration of “birth, sex, death, and the search for God.” In his quest, Brakhage turned his camera on explicit lovemaking, childbirth and an autopsy, among other subjects. Two disc collection features fifty-six of Brakhage’s most renowned works, all utterly unique and unforgettable. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Interviews with Brackhage; Commentary on selected films by Brakhage; Short film about Brakhage; 1990 video interview with Brakhage; Audio recordings of two lectures by Brakhage. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
YESTERDAY WAS A LIE (E1 Entertainment) Clever and engaging blend of sci-fi and film noir as a girl with a fondness for the bottle (Kipleigh Brown) finds herself playing detective, on the trail of a reclusive genius a la Howard Hughes, with a sexy lounge singer (Chase Masterson) and her loyal partner (Mik Scriba) backing her up. Beautifully-shot and designed, almost resembling a lower budget version of Sin City. Bonuses: Commentary by director James Kerwin, Brown, and Masterson; Featurettes; Photo gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
JERMAL (Indiepix) Drama from Indonesia about a 12 year-old boy who is sent to live with his father, following his mother’s passing. The father, unaware that he had a son, tries to adjust the boy to life aboard a jermal (fishing platform raised on stilts in the middle of the ocean), where he works as a foreman. Fascinating and powerful story of survival and redemption. Bonuses: Bloopers; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.
DEAR JOHN (Sony/Screen Gems) A young couple (Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried) is forced to separate after the man must finish his military service and the woman her college education, they pass the time by sending an endless stream of love letters to each other. When the war in Iraq begins, however, their separation is extended indefinitely. Sentimental story adapted from a Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook) novel, isn’t nearly as hokey as it could be, with likable turns from the two leads. A “chick flick” to be sure, but a watchable one, thanks in large part to director Lasse Hallstrom’s sure hand. Bonuses: Alternate ending; Outtakes; Deleted and alternate scenes; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
ALL MY FRIENDS ARE FUNERAL SINGERS (Indiepix) Big hit at last year’s Sundance Film Festival stars Angela Bettis in a whimsical tale of a fortune teller who shares her home with a group of ghosts who help her remove clients’ ailments, pesky spiritual visitors, and offer advice from the “other side.” When a mysterious light appears in the woods, the ghosts realize they are trapped and must flee, leaving the fortune teller to ponder life without the only family she’s ever had. Quirky, clever film will stay with you. Bonuses: Featurettes; Music video; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
BLU BAYOU Some of this month’s most-notable Blu-ray releases include: Blue Underground releases the spaghetti Western classic DJANGO, starring Franco Nero as a silent gunman who wanders the west, dragging a coffin behind him, which carries a deadly Gattling gun! Arguably the most influential spaghetti oater next to Sergio Leone’s “Man With No Name” trilogy, Django inspired countless unofficial sequels and knock-offs, none of which matched director Sergio Corbucci’s 1966 original in style, tongue-in-cheek humor, and sheer ferocity. Bonuses: Interviews with Nero and assistant director Ruggero Deodato; Featurette on Nero; 1968 documentary about the spaghetti western phenomenon; Trailers; Intro by Nero. Widescreen. DTS-HD mono. CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD is a gorefest from notorious splatter maestro Lucio Fulci, in which the gates of hell have been opened, releasing flesh-hungry demons who wreak havoc on unsuspecting city-dwellers. 1980 shocker was cut heavily for U.S. release to obtain an R-rating. If it’s your thing, you can’t beat Fulci for bloody, undead mayhem! Bonuses: Documentary on film’s production; Interviews with cast and crew; Poster and still galleries; Trailers; Radio spots. Widescreen. DTS 7.1 surround. Palisades Tartan Extreme releases 9 SONGS, director Michael Winterbottom’s experimental mix of hardcore sexuality and rock n’ roll, as a young London couple play out their relationship between the sheets to the tunes of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Dandy Warhols, and other top bands on the scene several years back. Plays more like an extended short, running just over an hour. Widescreen. DTS-HD 5.1 surround. Sony releases THE KARATE KID, one of the ‘80s classic Summer movies about a “new kid” from Jersey named Daniel (Ralph Macchio) who moves to a tough area of L.A. and is immediately set up by a gang of martial arts bullies. In order to protect himself and save face in front of his first love (Elizabeth Shue), he studies karate under the sage tutelage of his building’s elderly handyman, Mr. Miagi (Pat Morita). Cheesy and dated, to be sure, but still every bit as winning as it was over 25 years ago. Bonuses: Pop-up trivia, interviews, and extras; Commentary by director John G. Avildsen, writer Robert Mark Kamen, Macchio and Morita; Featurettes. The same can’t be said, sadly, for its sequel, THE KARATE KID II, which takes Daniel and Miagi back to the latter’s home of Okinawa, where Miagi must settle a score with an old rival and Daniel must face off again against a more powerful foe over the honor of a girl he falls for. As ridiculous and cloying as the first film was winning and fresh. Bonuses: Featurette. Both are widescreen, Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround. 20th Century Fox releases Lee Tamahori’s intense thriller THE EDGE, starring Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin as an intellectual billionaire and philandering photographer, respectively, who get lost in the Alaskan wilderness and must join forces to survive the elements, in spite of the fact that both are vying for the attentions of Hopkins’ young wife (Elle Macpherson). Dynamite thriller penned by David Mamet will keep you on the edge (pun intended) of your seat! Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. MARKED FOR DEATH is a by-the-numbers actioner starring Steven Seagal, already starting to look a bit hefty for an action hero, as a Fed doing battle against vicious Jamaican drug lords. Some potent action sequences, and lots of bone-crunching violence, but little else. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. Three of funny man Mel Brooks’ best receive the Blu treatment this month: HIGH ANXIETY is Brooks’ 1977 send-up of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thrillers, resulting in lots of classic Brooks routines. Brooks plays a renowned psychiatrist with a fear of heights who finds himself in the middle of a murder conspiracy after taking over the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous. Harvey Korman and (especially) Cloris Leachman are side-splitting in support. Look fast for co-writer (and future Oscar-winner) Barry Levinson as an angry bellboy. From 1981 HISTORY OF THE WORLD, PART I features zany escapes set throughout history, from before the birth of Christ, to the Roman Empire, to the Spanish Inquisition, and beyond. Featuring many of Brooks’ “company” of players, including Madeline Kahn, Dom DeLuise, Harvey Korman, Cloris Leachman and Sid Caesar. Narrated by Orson Welles! Finally, 1993’s ROBIN HOOD MEN IN TIGHTS, Brooks’ send-up of the Robin Hood legend, remains one of his lesser efforts, but still has plenty of big laughs and clever bits making it worth a look. Cary Elwes stars as the dashing rogue of Sherwood Forest, with solid support from Richard Lewis, Roger Rees, Tracey Ullman, and Brooks himself as (what else?) a rabbi. Bonuses on all: Featurettes; Trivia track; Isolated score track. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
DON’T TOUCH THAT DIAL! NBC/Universal releases THE VIRGINIAN, THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON, based on Owen Wister’s 1902 western novel, stars James Drury in the first 90 minute-long TV oater, which ran on NBC from 1962-71. Also starring the legendary Lee J. Cobb, Doug McClure and guest starring a who’s-who of stars and up-and-comers including George C. Scott, Lee Marvin, Bette Davis, Robert Duvall, and many more, The Virginian was the first western series with an air of class to it, predating shows like “The Big Valley” by several years. 10 disc set. Bonuses: Interviews with surviving cast members. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. HBO releases TRUE BLOOD, THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON, featuring all 12 season two episodes where the denizens of Bon Temps, LA. find themselves in increasingly hot undead water as a religious cult out to destroy vampires turns up the heat on their “mission,” and a mysterious woman (Michelle Forbes) arrives on the scene, seemingly casting a spell over the entire town. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; Commentary by cast and crew. BD features: Character perspectives; Flashback/flash foreword interactive timeline; Trivia/hint track; Pro and anti-vampire feeds, where you choose which camp you support and receive online updates. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround. MPI releases two new "Honeymooners" titles: from 1976 THE HONEYMOONERS RETURN stars Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows and Jane Kean, which deals with the train wreck of the Kramdens’ 25th wedding anniversary, while THE HONEYMOONERS VALENTINE SPECIAL, from 1978, tells the zany story of Alice’s attempt to surprise Ralph with a new suit for Valentine’s Day. Bonuses: Vintage sketches. Both are full screen, Dolby 2.0 mono. Sony releases THE THREE STOOGES COLLECTION, VOLUME EIGHT, 1955-1959, featuring the boys’ final 32 shorts and also marking the end of a comedic era. Following the 1955 death of Stooge Shemp Howard, Moe and Larry replaced him with Vaudeville veteran Joe Besser, whom many feel raised the bar on the Stooges’ humor during their final years. You be the judge. 3 disc set. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono. New Video/Lifetime releases a series of estrogen-aimed tear-jerkers: THE TWO MR. KISSELS is based on the scandalous true story of wealthy brothers (John Stamos and Anson Mount) both of whom were found dead under mysterious circumstances, with their wives as key suspects. Not bad of its type, bolstered by a solid cast of actors. RACING FOR TIME stars Charles S. Dutton (who also directed) and Elizabeth Pena in the true story of a Texas prison guard (Dutton) who creates a track program for some of the most hardcore female offenders at the Texas Correctional Youth Authority. A very well-made film that avoids any pitfalls of sentimentality. Dutton is, as always, excellent. GIRL, POSITIVE tells the story of a teenage girl (Andrea Bowen) who finds out that her recently-deceased boyfriend was an IV drug user, and HIV positive. Thinking that she may have contracted the disease from him, she turns to a sympathetic teacher (Jennie Garth) for support and advice. Tough subject matter, sensitively handled. TO BE FAT LIKE ME stars Kaley Cuoco as an attractive and popular high school student athlete whose dreams of a college softball scholarship are thwarted after an injury. So, she hatches an ingenious plan: to don a fat suit, enroll at a rival high school and make a documentary film about how personality can outshine physical appearance. Solid film with a strong moral message. MORE OF ME stars Molly Shannon as an overextended career woman and mother who finds herself literally coming apart at the seams, turning into three separate personalities to cope with her stressful life. While the psychic spilt is successful at first, she soon finds that it’s wreaking havoc on her marriage to her understanding husband (Steven Weber) and the rest of her life, as well. All films are full screen, Dolby 2.0 stereo. Acorn Media releases more great titles from the UK: TRIAL & RETRIBUTION SET 4, from “Prime Suspect” creator Lynda La Plante, is a feature-length drama series which traces a crime from commission to its day in court, much like “Law & Order.” David Hayman and Victoria Smurfit star. 3 episodes on 3 discs. Bonuses: Photo galleries; Bio on La Plante; Cast filmographies. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. RAFFLES, THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, tells the story of a gentleman thief (Anthony Valentine) in Victorian England. A master of accents and disguise, Raffles is assisted by school chum “Bunny” Manders (Christopher Strauli) and pursued by dogged Scotland Yard Inspector Mackenzie (Victor Carin). Fun, tongue-in-cheek series. 14 episodes on 4 discs cover the entire 1977 season and series. Bonuses: Production notes; Bio of author W.E. Hornung. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. JENNIE, LADY RANDOLPH CHURCHILL stars Lee Remick as the American mother of Sir Winston Churchill (Warren Clarke). This was Remick’s most honored role, winning her a 1974 Best Actress Golden Globe and BAFTA Award, as well as an Emmy nomination. Also stars notable British actors such as Christopher Cazenove, Sian Phillips, and Jeremy Brett. Seven episodes on two discs. Bonuses: Bio on Remick; Cast filmographies. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. A BIT OF A DO, THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, stars David Jason as the head of a stellar ensemble cast who play families from opposite sides of the tracks who are forced together when their respective son and daughter must get married one step ahead of the shotgun. Funny, perceptive series takes a barbed look at England’s class system, still very much alive when this first aired in 1989. 13 episodes on 4 discs. Bonuses: Interviews with cast and crew; Filmographies. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. VAN DER VALK MYSTERIES 2, stars Barry Foster as an intrepid Amsterdam police inspector who throws the book aside when tackling a new murder case and instead relies on his finely-honed instincts. Smart, tough policier from 1973 was a huge hit on the other side of the Pond, and is justly being released on DVD in North America for the fist time. 7 episodes on 2 discs. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. FOYLE’S WAR, SET 6, stars Michael Kitchen as a police inspector in post-WW II coastal England, who find his much-desired retirement being postponed by new cases which require his expertise. Three episodes on three discs. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Sony releases DROP DEAD DIVA THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON, stars Brooke Elliott as a glamorous, vain model who dies suddenly and finds herself reborn in the body of a plus-sized defense attorney. At turns funny and touching, with guest stars including Liza Minnelli, Rosie O'Donnell, Nia Vardalos and Delta Burke. 13 episodes on 3 discs. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
DOCUMENTARY DAYS Some of the best documentary and reality titles released this month include…MVD releases two more titles in its “Rare and Unseen” collection: JOHN LENNON RARE AND UNSEEN, featuring “Man of the Decade,” a British TV special on Lennon aired once in 1969; Aquarius, unseen since the ‘70s; “Weekend World,” a British news magazine from the ‘60s thought erased and unseen outside the UK; an interview with David Frost; Plus commentary from Lennon fans and friends including Phil Collins, Len Goodman and Tony Barrow. THE ROLLING STONES RARE AND UNSEEN features: unseen interview footage from Belfast, 1964; Unseen interviews with Mick Jagger and the rest of the band; Keith Richards at the Berlin Film Festival; Local TV news reports on the Stones thought lost, now restored. 45 years worth of rare footage on the band. Great stuff! Both are full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. I NEED THAT RECORD! THE DEATH (OR POSSIBLE SURVIVAL) OF THE INDEPENDENT RECORD STORE is a doc by guerilla filmmaker Brendan Toller which examines, with caustic humor, why roughly 3,000 independent record stores have closed across the U.S. in the past decade. Featuring commentary from indie rock artists and producers, as well as record execs who discuss the changing tide of how people are buying music. Bonuses: Over two hours of extra interviews. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. WE FUN ATLANTA, GA. INSIDE OUT is an inside look at the burgeoning alternative music scene in Atlanta, and some of the hottest bands that make it up, including the Black Lips, Mastodon and Deerhunter. Big hit on the film festival circuit. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. A&E/New Video release I KNOW WHAT I SAW, a look at how government and military officials have covered up UFO sightings and tangible evidence that we Earthlings have had contact with beings from worlds beyond. Pretty convincing, with some very credible witnesses and experts interviewed. Bonuses: Additional footage and outtakes; Bonus interviews. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. HOARDERS THE COMPLETE SEASON ONE takes a fascinating look at the lives of people whose inability to part with their belongings is so out of control, they are on the verge of a personal crisis. Two disc set is a fascinating look at the nature of compulsion, consumerism and obsession. Bonuses: Additional footage. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Indiepix releases PULLING JOHN, a look at All-American Armwrestling Champ John Brzenk as he struggles to hold onto his title against challengers from the hills of West Virginia, and the frozen regions of rural Russia. Shot over four years and five different continents, this is (believe it or not) a suspenseful, funny and engaging look at one man’s determination to stay the best in his field. Bonuses: Over 50 minutes of additional scenes; Graphic comic; Commentary by Brzenk and the filmmakers; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono. ICONS AMONG US, JAZZ IN THE PRESENT TENSE, explores the music and divergent influences that are shaping the world of jazz through interviews, performance footage, and the voices of the musicians themselves. From hip-hop to be-bop, from jam band to free form, this fascinating documentary covers it all. Bonuses: Featurettes; Additional performances; Photo gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Music Gate releases HIROMI IN LOVE, featuring Japanese recording star Hiromi Kanda performing hits from the Great American Songbook, including “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Unforgettable,” and “My Funny Valentine.” Sumptuously produced and filmed, providing Kanda an excellent showcase for her formidable talents. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Two extra songs. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Discovery Channel releases DIRTY JOBS SEASON 4, with host Mike Rowe showing us some of the most dirty, filthy, and disgusting jobs that real people actually do in the world. If it’s a chore that’s likely to turn your stomach, odds are the intrepid Rowe will find it and explore, expose and exploit it—ad nauseam! Five disc set features 30 episodes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Sony releases NOT THE MESSIAH HE’S A VERY NAUGHTY BOY, a terrific documentary, from the producers of Spamalot, offering up a rare, one-night only performance on the Pythons 40th anniversary in which surviving members Eric Idile, Terry Jones, Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam (only John Cleese is sadly missing) reunited on-stage to perform some of their most beloved sketches and bits, backed by the BBC Symphony and Chorus. Delightful fun from start to finish. Bonuses: Featurettes; Sing-along tracks. Also available on Blu-ray disc, featuring movieIQ and BD-LIVE features. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1 surround. DC3 releases CHICKENFOOT GET YOUR BUZZ ON LIVE, a live performance of the band, made up of a who’s-who of rock legends: Joe Satriani, Chad Smith, Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar. 13 tracks, all flawlessly recorded and filmed in Hi-def. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Widescreen. DTS 5.1 surround. Subpop releases DAVID CROSS BIGGER & BLACKER, recorded live at Boston’s Wilbur Theater, featuring the comic and his unique brand of humor, which can only be described as “scatological intellectualism.” Cross takes a page from the likes of Lenny Bruce, George Carlin and Richard Pryor as he mixes social philosophy with raunchy humor guaranteed to make the saltiest sailor blush. Bonuses: Extra concert footage. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Sexy Intellectual releases FRANK ZAPPA THE FREAK-OUT LIST, a fascinating look into the musical roots of avant-garde rock icon Frank Zappa. Features rare footage of Zappa’s pivotal band, The Mothers of Invention, at work and play, as well as interviews with its surviving members, as well as other Zappa friends, colleagues and intimates. Bonuses: Extended interviews; Featurette; Contributor biographies. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.
ANIMATION NATION Paramount/MTV release DARIA: THE COMPLETE ANIMATED SERIES, which follows the deadpan adventures of Daria Morgendorffer, an eccentric high schooler stuck in the dregs of middle America who just wants to be left alone so she can make fun of and belittle everyone around her. Very funny, barbed humor. Features all five seasons of the MTV hit, plus both Daria movies: “Is it Fall Yet?” and “Is it College Yet?” Bonuses: Pilot episode; Music video; Daria intros; Featurettes; Spin-off script; Cast and crew interviews. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Sony releases MR. BUMP PRESENTS PLANES, TRAINS AND DILLYMOBILES!, an animated compilation from the “Mr. Men Show” aimed at the little ones in your house, as Mr. Bump explores the world of cars, trains and ships. Bonuses: Mr. Bump game; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Warner Bros. releases THE BEST OF ELMO 2, featuring more of Elmo’s greatest moments on the PBS classic “Sesame Street.” Elmo shares the screen with the likes of Adam Sandler, Destiny’s Child, David Beckham, and The Goo Goo Dolls. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Buena Vista/Marvel release IRON MAN THE COMPLETE 1994 ANIMATED TELEVISION SERIES, offering all the animated adventures of billionaire inventor and super hero Tony Stark on 3 discs. Terrific animation and some inventive stories that should please the kids in your house, of any age. X-MEN VOLUME 5, features more adventures of everyone’s favorite mutant super heroes, this time with Captain America and Old Soldiers along for the ride. 2-disc set features 13 episodes. Both are full screen, Dolby 2.0 stereo. Finally, WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN REVELATION has the X-Men struggling to save the world, which will end in eight days if they don’t find a way to stop it. Five episodes of the hit series. Bonuses: Commentary by Craig Kyle, Greg Johnson, and Chris Yost; Trailer gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
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