DVD Playhouse: December 2010

DVD PLAYHOUSE DECEMBER 2010
By
Allen Gardner

AMERICA LOST AND FOUND: THE BBS STORY (Criterion) Perhaps the best DVD box set released this year, this ultimate cinefile stocking stuffer offered up by Criterion, the Rolls-Royce of home video labels, features seven seminal works from the late ‘60s-early ‘70s that were brought to life by cutting edge producers Bert Schneider, Steve Blauner and director/producer Bob Rafelson, the principals of BBS Productions. In chronological order: Head (1968) star the Monkees, the manufactured (by Rafelson, et al), American answer to the Beatles who, like it or not, did make an impact on popular culture, particularly in this utterly surreal piece of cinematic anarchy (co-written by Jack Nicholson, who has a cameo), which was largely dismissed upon its initial release, but is now regarded as a counterculture classic. Easy Rider (1969) is arguably regarded as the seminal ‘60s picture, about two hippie drug dealers (director Dennis Hopper and co-writer/producer Peter Fonda) who sell a cache of coke (to no less than Phil Spector) and take their souped-up Harleys cross-country on an odyssey of tragic redemption. One of the great movies, featuring one of the great rock soundtracks and Jack Nicholson’s star-making turn as a boozy Texas lawyer. Five Easy Pieces (1970), helmed by Rafelson and written by Adrien Joyce (Carole Eastman’s nom de plume), follows a son of privilege (Nicholson again) who rejects the manor to which he was born with such fervor that rejection soon becomes the only mantra he can live by, much to the detriment of all in his orbit. Terrific film, with fine support from Karen Black, Susan Anspach, and Sally Struthers. This is the film that features the classic diner scene, where Nicholson suggests to an overly pedantic waitress where she should hold the chicken! Drive, He Said (1970) was directed and co-written (with Jeremy Larner) by Nicholson, and is a fascinating time capsule about a college basketball star (William Tepper) trying to come to terms with the political radicalization of his friends, while being pressured by his traditional values, gung-ho coach (Bruce Dern, wonderful). Legendary screenwriter Robert Towne (excellent in one of his few turns as an actor), Karen Black and former UCLA star Michael Warren, offer fine support. A Safe Place (1971) was writer/director Henry Jaglom’s debut feature, and remains his most accessible work. Tuesday Weld stars as a flower child who has lost touch with reality and dreams of retreating to the simplicity of her childhood. Jaglom deftly tackles the dark side of the flower power movement, and it’s a whopper. Nicholson co-stars along with Orson Welles (!) and the Firesign Theater’s Phil Proctor. The Last Picture Show (1971) is also one of cinema’s finest hours, with author Larry McMurtry adapting his novel of the same name, about a dying town in rural Texas in the early 1950s, those denizens who opt to escape, and those who choose to go down with the ship. Spare, poetic, and masterful, a true work of art helmed by Peter Bogdanovich, which introduced a new generation of stars: Cybil Shepherd, Jeff Bridges, Timothy Bottoms, Ellen Burstyn, Cloris Leachman, Randy Quaid, as well as earning veteran Ben Johnson a much-deserved Oscar for his portrait of the sage Sam the Lion (Leachman also won a Best Supporting trophy). Not to be missed, with gorgeous B&W cinematography, which really pops in its Blu-ray transfer. Finally, The King of Marvin Gardens (1972), helmed by Rafelson, stars Jack Nicholson and Bruce Dern as two diametrically-opposed brothers, each suffering from childhood wounds, trying to save the other in 1950s Atlantic City. Ellen Burstyn gives one of the decade’s greatest performances as a faded beauty queen whose kettle is about to boil over. Bonuses on all include: New hi-def transfers with uncompressed mono soundtracks and option surround soundtracks on Head and Easy Rider; Audio commentary by cast and crew; New and archival interviews and documentaries; Outtakes, screen tests, TV and radio spots, photo galleries and trailers; Booklet featuring essays by critics and film scholars. Also available on Blu-ray disc. All are widescreen.
THE ELIA KAZAN COLLECTION (20th Century Fox) Martin Scorsese assembled this unprecedented, 18-disc collection of fifteen cinematic treasures from fellow Academy Award Winner Elia Kazan. From classic film noir to timeless period pieces, Kazan made a singular impact on the art of the motion picture, while evoking milestone performances from Hollywood's very best, including Marlon Brando, James Dean, Warren Beatty, Natalie Wood and Walter Matthau. Also included in this extraordinary set is A Letter to Elia (2010), the new, full-length documentary on Kazan's life, produced and presented by Scorsese himself.
Disc 1 A Letter to Elia (2010): Martin Scorsese directs and narrates this look at director Elia Kazan. From his triumphs with films such as On the Waterfront to his controversial naming of names during the McCarthy hearings, Kazan is shown in all his complexity.
Disc 2 A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (1945): Based on Betty Smith’s novel, the film tells the story of a girl who strives for a better life, despite her family’s poverty, which is caused in part by her father’s alcoholism. Joan Blondell co-stars as free-spirited Aunt Sissy. James Dunn won an Oscar for his role as the girl’s father.
Disc 3 Boomerang! (1947): When a local priest is murdered, a nervous drifter is fingered as the murderer. He denies committing the crime, but it’s up to a prosecutor (Dana Andrews) who believes the man is innocent to convince the court. The film is based on a true story. The film was nominated for an Oscar.
Disc 4 Gentleman’s Agreement (1947): A journalist (Gregory Peck) poses as a Jew, and soon discovers what is to be a victim of religious intolerance. The film won three Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director.
Disc 5 Pinky (1949): A light-skinned black woman (Jeanne Crain) who’s been passing for white at a northern nursing school returns to the South, where she’s asked to care for an ailing white woman (Ethel Barrymore), who wants nothing to do with her. Pinky must negotiate tricky racial politics in life and love. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards.
Disc 6 Panic in the Streets (1950): A public health worker (Richard Widmark) and a police captain (Paul Douglas) have only 48 hours to stop a pneumonic plague outbreak from spreading across New Orleans. Zero Mostel and Jack Palance co-star in the film, which won an Academy Award for Best Screenplay.
Discs 7 and 8 A Streetcar Named Desire (1951): Based on Tennessee Williams’ play, Vivien Leigh stars as Blanche DuBois, a fading Southern belle who’s not quite what she pretends to be. All is revealed when she comes to New Orleans to stay with her sister (Kim Hunter) and her volatile husband (Marlon Brando). Leigh, Hunter, and Karl Malden took home Oscars for their performances.
Disc 9 Viva Zapata! (1952): Marlon Brando stars as Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata who takes on corrupt president Porfirio Diaz, topples him, and then becomes disillusioned with his brother (Anthony Quinn) who takes Diaz’s place. John Steinbeck wrote the film’s screenplay and Quinn took home a Best Supporting Actor Oscar.
Disc 10 Man on a Tightrope (1953): Fredric March stars in this story of a Czechoslovakian circus troop whose members are drafted into the military when the communists take over. But as they near the Bavarian border, they decide to make a break to escape to the West.
Disc 11 On the Waterfront (1954): Marlon Brando stars in this controversial film about an ex-boxer turned longshoreman who decides to stand up to his corrupt union bosses. The film won eight Oscars, including Best Actor, Best Director, Best Picture, and Best Supporting Actress for Eva Marie Saint.
Discs 12 and 13 East of Eden (1955): Based on John Steinbeck’s novel, this film is a loose retelling of the Biblical Cain and Abel story. James Dean stars as Cal, who competes with his brother Aron (Richard Davalos) for the love of his father (Raymond Massey). Jo Van Fleet won an Oscar for her role as Cal’s opportunistic mother.
Disc 14 Baby Doll (1956): Based on Tennessee Williams’ play “27 Wagons Full of Cotton,” this film’s racy plot about a virgin bride (Carroll Baker) caught between her husband (Karl Malden) and his rival (Eli Wallach) provoked an outcry from the Catholic league. The film was nominated for four Oscars.
Disc 15 A Face in the Crowd (1957): Andy Griffith stars as Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes, a drunken drifter stumbles into fame and power on a new medium called television. But will he be unmasked as a fraud?
Disc 16 Wild River (1960): Montgomery Clift stars as a Tennessee Valley Authority administrator who must deal with the racial politics of hiring black workers. He also must evict and old woman (Jo Van Fleet) from her home, but then he falls in love with her daughter (Lee Remick).
Disc 17 Splendor in the Grass (1961): Warren Beatty made his film debut in this story of a girl (Natalie Wood) who love for a local boy and pressure to be a “good girl” from her parents drives her to madness. The film won an Oscar for Best Screenplay.
Disc 18 America, America (1963): This film is the loose adaptation of the real-life story of Elia Kazan’s uncle who grew up as part of the Greek minority in Turkey. He travels to Constantinople to escape persecution, but dreams of living in America. The film was nominated for four Oscars. Films are full and widescreen, Dolby 2.0 mono.
THE OTHER GUYS (Sony) Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg star as mismatched NYPD detectives who are put back on the street after the precinct’s star cops (Samuel L. Jackson and Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson) are put out of commission. When the pair stumble onto what could be the criminal case of the decade, they must try to solve the case without destroying NYC, and each other, in the process. Frenetic action/comedy is entertaining overall, but also suffers from a bad case of AD/HD, which fried this viewer’s senses less than halfway through the non-stop explosions, punch-ups and pratfalls. Also, owes an awfully big debt to Richard Rush’s cult classic Freebie and the Bean, which was much better (not to mention nastier). Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: PG-13 and unrated versions of the film; Deleted and extended scenes; Featurettes. BD exclusives: More deleted and extended scenes; Featurettes; “Mom-mentary” commentary track featuring Ferrell, director Adam McKay and screenwriter Chris Henchy’s mothers. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS 5.1-HD MA.
AVATAR: EXTENDED COLLECTOR’S EDITION (20th Century Fox) James Cameron’s box office buster is re-released onto DVD in three different versions: the original theatrical version, the Special Edition re-release and an all-new 3-hour Collector’s Edition with 16 minutes of additional footage. The latter edition fleshes out the original story even more, adding greater depth to the lead characters and Cameron’s engaging (if at times sappy) storyline. Truly a major cinematic event, as much as Star Wars was and, like that sci-fi classic, will lose power somewhat on a small screen (even with today’s home theaters) and in 2-D. Nevertheless, no cinefile’s movie library will be complete without this! Bonuses: Alternate opening; Capturing Avatar, an in-depth, feature-length documentary on the film’s production, featuring new interviews with cast and crew; Over 45 minutes of deleted scenes; Family audio track, with all profanity removed. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
CRONOS (Criterion) Guillermo del Toro’s audacious debut feature is a canny and twisted modern vampire story, set in Mexico City. When a kindly, aging antiques dealer (Federico Luppi) comes into the possession of an ancient golden scarab, he soon finds himself the possessor of superhuman powers, as well as a thirst for blood. Ron Perlman chews the scenery with aplomb as a sinister American after the brooch. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Original Spanish voice-over introduction; Commentary by del Toro, and producers Arthur H. Gorson, Bertha Navarro and Alejandro Springall; Horror short from 1987 by del Toro; Featurettes; Interviews with cast and crew; Stills gallery captioned by del Toro; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD MA.
LIFE IN FLIGHT (IFC Films) Patrick Wilson stars as a Manhattan architect yearning for fulfillment in spite of having a seemingly-perfect life. When he meets a free-spirited young woman (Lynn Collins) he suddenly finds his world opening up in ways never imagined. Amiable comedy is buoyed by an attractive young cast, including Rashida Jones, Amy Smart, Zack Orth, and Fred Weller. Bonuses: Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
ALARM (IFC Films) A young woman (Ruth Bradley) moves from Dublin to a seemingly idyllic suburban town, only to feel more isolated and vulnerable than ever. Aidan Turner co-stars as her love interest, who can’t seem to relieve the woman’s anxiety. Echoes of Roman Polanski’s Repulsion abound in this atmospheric chiller, which relies on suspense more than gore to send shivers up your spine. Bonuses: Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
LEGENDARY ASSASSIN (Lionsgate) When the remains of a crime syndicate boss are found, Hong Kong’s criminal underworld is thrown into chaos and starts to come apart at the seams. A handful of society’s refuse must join together and track down the killer, before their world explodes. Nifty whodunit/action hybrid with some truly dazzling set pieces, executed in a compact 89 minutes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
MODERN TIMES (Criterion) Charlie Chaplin’s 1936 classic was his last silent film, and his last appearance as the Little Tramp, featuring the Tramp as a gleefully inept factory worker who falls in love with lovely Paulette Goddard (who would later become Mrs. Chaplin in reality), as a homeless girl with a heart of…you get the idea. Surreal, hilarious and poignant salute to the working class and their survival in the waning days of the Great Depression features one classic sequence after another. A true treasure, beautifully restored with a 2K resolution digital transfer. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by Chaplin biographer David Robison; Two visual essays by Chaplin historians; Featurettes; Deleted scenes; Home movie from 1933 by Alistair Cooke, featuring Chaplin and Goddard; The Rink, a Chaplin two-reeler from 1916; Three theatrical trailers; Booklet featuring essays by critic Saul Austerlitz and film scholar Lisa Stein. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
THE NIGHT OF THE HUNTER (Criterion) Actor Charles Laughton’s first and only foray behind the camera as director is one of the 1950s’ greatest films. Robert Mitchum stars as Harry Powell, a traveling preacher with ominously tattooed knuckles (Love/Hate) who marries a fragile widow (Shelley Winters) under less-than-honorable intentions, which her children quickly discover. Almost sublime blend of suspense, dark humor and (yes) Grimm’s fairy tale, with a strong nod to the stylistics of German Expressionism, as well. Lillian Gish, Peter Graves and Billy Chapin co-star. Bonuses: Commentary by second unit director Terry Sanders, critic F.X. Feeney, archivist Robert Gitt and author Preston Neal Jones; Documentary on the film’s production; Featurettes and interviews; Clip from “The Ed Sullivan Show” in which cast performs a scene cut from the film; Archival interview with cinematographer Stanley Cortez; Sketch gallery; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 1.0 mono.
BEAUTIFUL KATE (eONE) Actress Rachel Ward (“The Thorn Birds”) makes a strong debut as writer/director with this unflinching drama about an Aussie man (Ben Mendelsohn)’s return to his remote farming community to make amends with his dying father (the great Bryan Brown), and come to terms with disturbing memories of his twin sister Kate (Sophie Lowe). Tough and unsentimental film pulls no punches. Bonuses: Cast and crew interviews; Deleted scenes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE YEAR OF GETTING TO KNOW US (eONE) Jimmy Fallon plays an aimless young man who returns home to Florida to make peace with his dying father (Tom Arnold) and stuck-in-the-‘60s mother (Sharon Stone). Fallon is quite good in the lead in this solid, if unremarkable film. Nice support from Lucy Liu. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Sundance press conference footage with cast and crew. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
MICMACS (Sony) Another feast for the senses from French auteur Jean-Pierre Jeunet (Amelie). Danny Boon stars as Bazil, a survivor of urban violence who, with a determined group of fellow travelers, decides to put all weapons manufacturers out of business, come hell or high water. Like most of Jeunet’s films, this one is nearly indescribable, except to say that you should see it (or rather experience it) yourself and draw conclusions from there. Love him or not, Jeunet is nothing if not a true original! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by Jeunet; Interviews with Jeunet and actress Julie Ferrier; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround.
KNIGHT AND DAY (20th Century Fox) Cameron Diaz plays a small town girl named June who meets mysterious stranger Tom Cruise and is swept off her feet. Before they can say “I do,” June realizes that her new beau is a secret agent who drags on a cat-and-mouse chase that covers the globe. James Mangold’s lastest film can’t decide if it’s an homage to the romantic thrillers that Cary Grant and Alfred Hitchcock were masters of in the ‘50s and ‘60s, or if it’s an over-the-top 1980s action/comedy. As it is, we’re left with a painful, and uninspired mishmash of both genres, creating a hybrid that runs out of gas (or electricity, choose your metaphor) almost immediately. The attractive stars try their damndest but it’s hard to believe this was the best script that arrived in their mailbox last year. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; BD-LIVE features; Music video. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
FRENEMY (Lionsgate) Zack Galifianakis, Matthew Modine, Paul Adelstein and Callum Blue star as a group of friends who are affected by a violent crime, claiming one of them. When the others survive, the mull over the meaning of life and the fickleness of fate. Odd, half-funny, half-serious film (or is it more of an exercise) from former adult filmmaker Gregory Dark, also known as Little Fish, Strange Pond. Not for every taste, but worth a look. Bonuses: Trailer gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE A-TEAM (20th Century Fox) Who came up with the idea that a good movie could be made from a lame TV show? Whoever they are, if you’re reading this, I want the two hours of my life BACK that were spent watching this ridiculous PRODUCT (yes, “product,” not “film”) that doesn’t have one frame of entertainment to be seen. Liam Neeson wastes his formidable talents here, playing the leader of a group of ex-Special Forces soldiers who were court-martialed on trumped-up charges. There’s little point in summing up the plot, as it’s simply an excuse to frame a series of explosions and one-liners delivered by Bradley Cooper and former UFC champ-turned-actor Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, stepping into Mr. T’s shoes. Director Joe Carnahan (Narc) showed a lot more promise than this mess. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Theatrical and extended versions of the film; Featurettes; Deleted scenes and gag reel. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
TWELVE (20th Century Fox) Joel Schumacher helmed this powerful, deadpan study of wealthy, disaffected teens in contemporary Manhattan, adapted from Nick McDonell’s cult novel. Chace Crawford stars as White Mike, a son of privilege who has fallen from grace due to outside circumstances, now forced to deal pot and a new “designer” drug called twelve to his former classmates who are home for Christmas break. If it feels like a 21st century, East Coast version of Bret Easton Ellis’ classic Less Than Zero, you’d be spot-on, as this film deftly captures the deadpan ennui than made Ellis’ debut novel (unlike its film adaptation) such an enduring knockout. Schumacher, an unlikely but gifted helmer for this film, does expert work with a who’s-who of upcoming talent, including Emma Roberts, Rory Culkin, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Emily Meade and vets like Ellen Barkin, terrific in a small, but memorable role as a mother for whom the devil most certainly created Prada. Savvy viewers will see the blood-soaked, melodramatic ending coming miles before it arrives, but that shouldn’t stop viewers from experiencing this tight, powerful, under-seen film. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
ALEX COX’S STRAIGHT TO HELL RETURNS (Microcinema) Cult director Alex Cox has re-tooled his 1986 punk western classic Straight to Hell with digitally-enhanced bloodletting, six restored scenes and newly-mixed 5.1 surround sound. Starring the unlikely cast of Sy Richardson, Joe Strummer of the Clash, Dick Rude, Courtney Love, The Pogues, Elvis Costello, Dennis Hopper, Grace Jones, Edward Tudor-Pole, Jim Jarmusch, Miguel Sandoval, and Kathy Burke. This “new and improved” STH 2.0 is certainly slicker and more polished than the original, but part of its charm was its rough edges, which seem almost dull now rather than smooth. Bonuses: Documentary; Commentary by Cox and Rude; Featurettes; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE (Summit) Third chapter of the Twilight series finds Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) surrounded by danger as Seattle is hit by a string of brutal murders and an evil vampire continues her quest for revenge. Meanwhile, Bella must choose between her true love Edward (Robert Pattinson) and her best friend Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner), knowing that her decision could ignite the ageless struggle between vampires and werewolves. This is one of those franchises that you either “get” or you don’t. If your answer is the latter, avoid this teen potboiler as a vampire would a good Italian restaurant! Bonuses: Two audio commentaries with Pattinson, Stewart, author Stephanie Meyer and Wyck Godfrey; 6-part documentary; Deleted and extended scenes; Photo gallery; Music videos. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
CHER: THE FILM COLLECTION (MGM/Fox) Six films starring pop culture icon Cher, from her early, hippie days to her more recent incarnation as a reigning diva. Good Times (1967) teams Cher with then-husband Sonny Bono in director William Friedkin’s first feature, which is basically a series of sketches and songs from the pair assembled into a feature-length film. Some nice directorial touches, but certainly no hints as to what any of the players were to deliver later! Chastity (1969) was written by Bono, and stars Cher as an aimless young woman, haunted by past abuses, who hitchhikes cross-country. Tries very hard to be a meaningful “message” picture, but comes off as heavy-handed and dated today. Silkwood (1983) is Mike Nichols’ dynamite dramatization of Karen Silkwood (Meryl Streep), a nuclear power plant worker who died mysteriously as she was about to blow the whistle on Kerr-McGee, her former employers. Cher rocked the house as Silkwood’s lesbian roommate, and scored a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her work. Moonstruck (1987) won Cher a Best Actress Oscar for her terrific turn as a frustrated Italian-American widow torn between her fiancée (Danny Aiello) and his unhinged younger brother (Nicolas Cage). A terrific romantic comedy, with fine direction by Norman Jewison and an Oscar-wining script from John Patrick Shanley. Mermaids (1990) is set in the early ‘60s, with Cher as a single mother with two daughters (Winona Ryder and Christina Ricci) who finds love with a mild-mannered local man (Bob Hoskins) in a small Massachusetts town. Mixes good moments with bursts of sentimentality that nearly ruin the proceedings. Finally, Tea With Mussolini (1999) is director Franco Zefferelli’s semi-autobiographical tale of a young boy orphaned during WW II, and being raised by a group of Englishwomen. Cher steals the show as a wealthy American art collector who befriends the women. All are widescreen, Dolby 5.1 surround, and Dolby 2.0 mono.
FIRE & ICE: THE DRAGON CHRONICLES (eOne) A peaceful kingdom is besieged by a monstrous Fire Dragon, leaving the land’s princess (Amy Acker) to search for a killer to fell the mighty beast. When Gabriel (Tom Wisdom), son of a legendary knight, steps forward, the two summon the powerful Ice Dragon to battle its mortal enemy, but will the winner decide to conquer the kingdom for itself? Cheesy almost to the extreme, but still highly entertaining, as this film wears its B-movie passport proudly on every sleeve (and cuff). Some of the CGI is painfully bad, but just pretend it’s an old claymation Sinbad movie from Ray Harryhausen, and you’ll be in the proper frame of mind! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
VALHALLA RISING (IFC Films) Dark, brutal Danish Viking epic stars Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale) as a maimed prisoner known only as One Eye who escapes his captors and rejoins fellow soldiers headed to the Crusades. When their ship finds itself pushed off-course, and landing in the New World, these “Soldiers of Christ” must face the most cunning warriors of them all—Native American tribesmen defending their lands. Uncompromising, visually stunning and thematically rich, another winner from director Nicholas Winding Refn (the Pusher trilogy, Bronson). Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
STRICTLY BALLROOM: SPECIAL EDITION (Miramax) Baz Luhrmann was put on the filmmaking map with this romantic comedy about an unorthodox dancer (Paul Mercurio) who teams with a fellow outsider (Tara Morice) to compete in the Australian Pan Pacific Ballroom Dancing Championship. Like all of Luhrmann’s subsequent films, this one establishes his AD/HD from nearly the first frame, flinging images, sounds and dialogue at the viewer like an aerial bombardment. If you’re a fan of his style, you’re likely to take a shine to this much-loved export from Down Under, if not…dance elsewhere. Bonuses: Featurettes; Deleted scene; Design gallery with narration; Commentary by Luhrmann. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
FLIPPED (Warner Bros.) Delightful family-friendly romance between a 14 year-old boy (Callan McAuliffe) and girl (Madeline Carroll) who have been lifelong friends, then suddenly discovers that the other is attractive as they come of age. Tracking the pair from grade school to junior high, we get a warts-and-all view of adolescence, told with humor, charm and truth. A welcome return to form for director Rob Reiner, whose long dry spell could be over with this winner. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by cast and crew; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP (HBO Films) Peter Morgan, who has apparently taken the mantle of Tony Blair stories official scribe (he also penned The Queen and “The Deal”), put his quill to this story of the so-called “special relationship between British Prime Minister Tony Blair (played once again by the excellent Michael Sheen, see above comment re: Mr. Morgan) and President Bill Clinton (Dennis Quaid, also fine). Succeeds as a canny examination of the enigmatic Clinton through Blair’s eyes, although both Hillary Clinton (Hope Davis) and Cherie Blair (Helen McCrory) are beautifully-nuanced characters, as well. Fine direction by Richard Loncraine. Bonuses: Featurette. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
A DOG YEAR (HBO Films) Jeff Bridges delivers another stellar turn in this film based on the memoir by New York Times best-selling author Jon Katz. Bridges plays a burned-out writer suffering from mid-life writer’s block who reluctantly adopts a “problem” Border Collie to train the pooch into normalcy, only to discover it’s he who’s receiving the training from his new four-legged friend. Fine support from Lauren Ambrose and veteran actress Lois Smith. Bonuses: Featurette. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
THE HORDE (IFC Films) Not that the world needed another zombie picture, but this one ain’t half bad, and is the first one in memory from France. While Paris burns and the undead have taken over the city of lights, a rag-tag group of former cops plans an assault on an urban gang’s headquarters in retaliation for the brutal murder of a fellow officer. What the foes quickly realize is that they must become friends and band together, or end their days as a meal for the hungry hordes of zombies that are closing in. Hyper-violent and gory, but also smart, funny and scary as hell. Bonuses: Alternate opening; Featurettes; Short film; Deleted scenes; Poster and storyboard galleries; Teasers and trailers. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
MAP OF THE SOUNDS OF TOKYO (IFC Films) Writer/director Isabel Coixet (Elegy)’s eccentric, erotic thriller revolves around a delicate Japanese assassin (Rinko Kikuchi) who finds herself falling for her next intended target (Sergi Lopez), which increases through a series of heated sexual encounters in a Tokyo hotel. Terrific blend of sexual tension and suspense, with Coixet showing her obvious filmmaking gifts in all their glory. Bonuses: Featurette; Teaser and trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.
CYRUS (20th Century Fox) John C. Reilly plays a recently-divorced sad sack who falls hard for single mom Marisa Tomei, only to find their love cock-blocked at every turn by her neurotic man/child son, Cyrus (Jonah Hill). Writer/director brothers Jay and Mark Duplass have fashioned 2/3 of a biting, searing black comedy that could have been a boundary-shattering masterpiece, but seem to get cold feet in the third act when, instead of letting the lit fuse reach the dynamite, they’re happy to simple let it fizzle out. A real let-down, particularly given the amount of talent both in front of and behind the camera. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Q&A with the filmmakers; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.
THE TOWN (Warner Bros.) Rock-solid heist picture directed, co-written by, and starring Ben Affleck, as a professional thief who plans a final score that will get him out of his dead-end Massachusetts town and ensure a future for himself and his new love (Rebecca Hall), an unwitting former victim of his thievery. Jon Hamm scores big as a tenacious FBI agent on Affleck’s trail, as does Jeremy Renner as a tightly-wound member of Affleck’s crew. Blu-ray edition contains theatrical version and extended 153 minute director’s cut, which is an even better film, more deliberately paced, and allows more time to flesh out all the characters in the mosaic-like story. Supporting cast includes Blake Lively, Pete Postelthwaite and Chris Cooper, all sinewy business as Affleck’s dad. Bonuses: Commentary by Affleck; Featurettes; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.




DON’T TOUCH THAT DIAL! Acorn Media releases more classic titles from across the Pond, including the long-awaited North American release of MAN IN A SUITCASE, SET 1, the groundbreaking espionage series that broke barriers for violence, sex and mature themes in the mid-60s. Richard Bradford, a highly-underrated and under-used actor, stars as McGill, an ex-CIA operative with a murky past who finds himself a masterless samurai in swinging ‘60s London. Freelancing as a private eye/gun-for-hire, McGill tackles everything from missing persons cases to tangling with madmen out to control the world. Just terrific, and holds up beautifully. Fun early turns from the likes of Donald Sutherland, Judy Geeson, and Nicola Pagett. 15 episodes on 4 discs. Bonuses: Photo gallery. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. DISCOVERING HAMLET features Derek Jacobi and Kenneth Branaugh in a 1988 documentary that shows then-rising star Branaugh preparing to play the melancholy Dane under the tutelage of veteran thespian Jacobi, at that time regarded as the greatest Hamlet to date. A fascinating time capsule and look into the actor’s process. Bonuses: Interviews with cast and crew; Featurettes; Bonus disc with behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and more; 12-page viewer’s guide; Photo gallery. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. GARROW’S LAW, SERIES 1 is an 18th century courtroom drama following a passionate young barrister (Andrew Buchan) who fights the corruption in London’s Old Bailey, advocates for the accused, and pioneers the art of cross-examination. Alun Armstrong co-stars as Garrow’s mentor with a nice turn from Lyndsey Marshal as his love interest. Bonuses: Featurette; Photo gallery; Biographies and filmographies. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. BLUE MURDER: COMPLETE COLLECTION follows the triumphs and travails of Detective Chief Inspector Janine Lewis (Caroline Quentin) as she tackles Manchester’s most brutal crimes and their purveyors, all the while remaining a devoted single mother of four. Great blend of gritty street crime and family drama. 19 episodes on 9 discs. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. SINGLE-HANDED: SET 1 is an Irish police drama about a Garda Sergeant (Owen McDonnell) who is transferred from Dublin to his tiny native hamlet on the west coast, where he soon discovers that law enforcement in a close-knit community has specific challenges of its own. Three feature length crime dramas on three discs. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. DIRTY TRICKS stars Martin Clunes in a bawdy romp as a charming sociopath on the run from the law who finds himself accused of murder. Winner of an International Emmy for Best Drama. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. THE GUILTY stars Michael Kitchen and Caroline Catz as a successful attorney and his secretary who, after a drunken celebration together, find themselves having gone too far. She cries rape, he denies it. Meanwhile, a streetwise punk (Sean Gallagher) finds himself in hot water when his search for his birth father goes horribly awry. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. ENEMY AT THE DOOR: SERIES 2 tells the continuing story of the Nazi occupation of Britain’s Channel Islands and the men and women who lived through it. Fine ensemble cast includes Alfred Burke, Bernard Horsfall, John Rhys-Davies, Kenneth Cranham, Stephanie Cole and David Hayman. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. THE AGATHA CHRISTIE HOUR: SET 2 features five dramatizations of classic Christie stories: “Magnolia Blossom,” “The Mystery of the Blue Jar,” “The Red Signal,” “Jane in Search of a Job,” and “The Manhood of Edward Robinson.” Fine casts include Amanda Redman, Ralph Bates, Stephanie Cole, Christopher Cazenove, Cherie Lunghi, and Rupert Everett. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. PIE IN THE SKY: SERIES 4 continues the comic misadventures of Detective Inspector Henry Crabbe (Richard Griffiths), who divides his time between catching criminals and his true passion—cooking. Fine support from Maggie Steed and Malcolm Sinclair. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. WISH ME LUCK, SERIES 2 follows the nail-biting adventures of Liz Grainger (Kate Buffery) a secret agent during WW II, based on true stories of the women who were recruited by Britain’s Special Operations Executive. Fine support from Julian Glover, Lynn Farleigh, Jane Snowden and guest turns from Jane Asher, Jeremy Northam. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Lifetime/NewVideo releases PRAYERS FOR BOBBY, starring Sigourney Weaver as a deeply religious housewife who struggles to come to terms with her son’s coming out as a gay man. Sensitively handled, with fine support from Henry Czerny, Ryan Kelley, Austin Nichols and Carly Schroeder. Bonuses: Featurettes; Interviews with cast and crew. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. HOLIDAY SWITCH stars Nicole Eggert as a struggling blue collar mom who is granted a holiday wish to see how life would have been different if she’d married her high school sweetheart, now a wealthy art gallery owner. Solid retooling of oft-told Dickens classic. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. RECIPIE FOR A PERFECT CHRISTMAS stars Christine Baranski, Carly Pope and Baby Cannavale in a holiday comedy of errors about a bookish 20-something food critic who finds her life turned topsy-turvy when her overbearing mother hits town for the holidays. Cute, fun family entertainment. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. THE ROAD TO CHRISTMAS stars Jennifer Grey as a woman about to marry a glamorous multimillionaire in storybook Aspen, CO., who finds her desires shifting after meeting a charming widower (Clark Gregg) while socked in during a snowstorm. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. A&E releases the cult classic ‘70s sci-fi series SPACE: 1999 on Blu-ray for its 35th anniversary, featuring all 24 episodes on 7 discs, beautifully restored and remastered, and looking smashing on BD! Martin Landau and Barbara Bain star as the commanding officers of Moonbase Alpha who find themselves knocked out of orbit after a nuclear explosion at a lunar waste dump. Groovy blend of psychedlia, sci-fi and social commentary, a real landmark in television. Bonuses: Commentary by creators Gerry and Sylvia Anderson; Music-only tracks; Photo galleries; Alternate opening and closing titles; Featurettes. Full screen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS: THE COMPLETE SEASON 5 features more reality-TV shenanigans from the former Kiss frontman and his family, including wife, former Playmate of the Year Shannon Tweed, his kids and of course, his bandmates. Features all 17 season 5 episodes. Bonuses: Additional footage. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. BILLY THE EXTERMINATOR SEASON ONE & TWO features “pest remover” Billy Bretherton and his adventures clearing some of the nastiest critters in Louisiana out of civilization, from rattlesnakes, to raccoons, to some really nasty gators, watch Billy work his fearless magic with gusto. Bonuses: Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Time-Life releases a mammoth box set of THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, featuring 40 DVDs with all 100 hour-long episodes that were broadcast from 1974-78, digitally-restored. Lee Majors plays Col. Steve Austin, an astronaut injured in a crash who is literally rebuilt by the U.S. government into a half-human/half-machine who tackles the nation’s toughest missions as a secret agent. Great, cheesy fun, particularly as the series seemed to take itself quite seriously back in the day! Bonuses include more than than 17 hours of features, including new interviews with stars Lee Majors, Richard Anderson, Lindsay Wagner, exec producer Harve Bennett; Featurettes; Audio commentaries by cast and crew; Three pilot TV movies: “The Six Million Dollar Man,” “Wine, Women and War,” “Solid Gold Kidnapping”; Three reunion TV movies: “The Return of the Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman,” “Bionic Showdown,” and “Bionic Ever After?”; Crossover episodes of “The Bionic Woman; Alternate syndicated edits of the pilot and reunion films. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. HBO releases DEADWOOD: THE COMPLETE SERIES on Blu-ray and DVD, featuring all 36 episodes of David Milch’s groundbreaking western series on 13 discs. Timothy Olyphant stars as a reluctant sheriff in a 19th century mining town, who shares an uneasy alliance with the town boss (Ian McShane, in a career-reviving turn as one of the tube’s great ambiguous villains). Sprawling, epic, poetic and profane, truly one of television’s finest hours that will likely never be equaled. Bonuses: Featurettes; Interviews with Milch, cast and crew; Audition footage; Episode commentaries; Outtakes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. 20th Century Fox releases 24 SEASON EIGHT: THE COMPLETE FINAL SEASON, with Kiefer Sutherland as Agent Jack Bauer, racing to prevent the assassination of a Middle Eastern leader, a terrorist threat against New York City, and more! Terrific swan song for the hit series, with Sutherland and a terrific supporting cast including Mary Lynn Rajskub, Cherry Jones, Anil Kapoor, Annie Wersching, Katee Sackhoff, Mykelti Williamson and Freddie Prinze, Jr. pulling out all the stops. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Expanded episodes; Scenemakers on 21 select episodes; Featurettes; Deleted scenes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. LIE TO ME: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON, features more mind games with Tim Roth’s Dr. Cal Lightman, the world’s leading deception expert. Watch as Cal interrogates everyone from wife killers to terrorists, all of whom slip themselves up with unconscious ticks, mannerisms and slips. Smart, sly psychological drama, with Roth owning every scene he’s in. Bonuses: Extended and deleted scenes; Featurettes; Gag reel. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.




BLU BAYOU Disney releases a BD, 3-D version of Tim Burton’s ALICE IN WONDERLAND, starring Johnny Depp as the maddest of Mad Hatters, in one of the most twisted, surreal adaptations of Lewis Carroll’s classic, mind-altering (and altered) children’s fable. The 3-D tech is surprisingly good, particularly considering how new the format is for the home theater experience. Be sure to watch this feast for the senses on the best, most up-to-date system possible for full effect! 4-disc combo pack includes BD 3-D version; Regular BD version; DVD version; and a digital copy of the film. Bonuses: 16 featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. Criterion releases David Cronenberg’s VIDEODROME, starring James Woods as a cable TV maven looking for salacious content to keep his station on the cutting edge. When he stumbles across a pirate broadcast of hyper-violent torture called “Videodrome,” his attempts to unearth its origins send him on a mind-altering journey into a shadow world that grows increasingly bizarre and dangerous. Like all of Cronenberg’s films, this 1983 cult classic combines sci-fi, biology and prescient social commentary to create a unique stew for discriminating tastes. New Wave star Debbie Harry scores big in support. Bonuses: Unrated version of the film; Commentaries by Cronenberg, cinematographer Mark Irwin, Woods, and Harry; Featurettes; Documentary; Camera, a 2000 short by Cronenberg; Interviews with cast and crew; Fear on Film, a 1982 roundtable discussion between Cronenberg and directors John Carpenter, John Landis, and Mick Garris; Trailers; Photo gallery. Widescreen. Dolby 1.0 mono. Sony releases three titles from director Robert Rodriguez: a double bill of EL MARIACHI/DESPERADO, Rodriguez’s micro-budget debut and its big budget follow-up about a wondering mariachi with a guitar case full of weapons crossing paths with vicious Mexican drug lords. The first, with its no-name cast and hyper-kinetic no-budget panache remains one of the best films of its kind, while its sequel, in spite of the star power of Antonio Banderas and lots of eye candy, seems lifeless in comparison. ONCE UPON A TIME IN MEXICO features Banderas again in the lead, this time leading an all-star cast including Johnny Depp, Salma Hayek, Mickey Rourke, Eva Mendes, Danny Trejo, and Willem Dafoe, in a western epic loaded with blazing shoot-outs, zippy one-liners and giant set pieces…but very little else of substance. Bonuses: Commentary by Rodriguez; Featurettes; Short films; Deleted scenes; Music videos; BD LIVE and movieIQ synch features. Widescreen. DTS-HD 2.0 stereo and 5.1 surround. Lionsgate releases six titles from actor/writer/director/producer Tyler Perry: MADEA’S BIG HAPPY FAMILY, MADEA’S FAMILY REUNION, and MADEA GOES TO JAIL are all broad farces featuring Perry in Drag as an overbearing, but loving Southern patriarch, based on Perry’s hit stage plays. THE FAMILY THAT PREYS tells the story of one working class (Alfre Woodard) and one wealthy (Kathy Bates) mother who have been friends for years, and find their friendship tested as their respective families are at odds with each other. DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN features Perry, in his film debut, along with Kimberly Elise, Steve Harris, Shemar Moore and Cicely Tyson about a well-to-do black family facing challenges upon a couple’s anniversary party. WHY DID I GET MARRIED stars Perry, Janet Jackson, and Jill Scott about eight married college friends on vacation at a secluded Colorado resort whose lives are put under the microscope when one of the men shows up with his young mistress. The last three titles are all funny, touching examinations of life for the black upper middle class. Bonuses: Commentary by Perry; Featurettes; Deleted scenes; Photo galleries. Widescreen. DTS-HD 5.1 surround.



DOCUMENTARY DAYS A&E releases Michael Epstein’s LENNONYC, a terrific, intimate look at the last decade of John Lennon’s life, spend in the Big Apple. Loaded with never-before-seen footage of Lennon and work and play, with wife and collaborator Yoko Ono, as well as fellow musicians such as Elton John, Jim Keltner and producer Jack Douglas. Ono gives her most candid interviews to date. Superb doc, not to be missed by Beatles/Lennon fans. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. Disney releases three brand new docs: WALT & EL GRUPO: THE UNTOLD ADVENTURES takes a look at Walt Disney’s 1941 sojourn to South America as a cultural ambassador, where Walt took a group of handpicked artists who created two classic films as a result of the trip: Saludos Amigos and The Three Caballeros. Loaded with rare footage and unique insights into Disney’s creative process. Bonuses: Commentary by filmmaker Theodore Thomas and historian J.B. Kaufman; Photo galleries; Featurettes; Saludos Amigos, original 1943 feature; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. THE BOYS takes a look at the Sherman brothers, Robert and Richard, who were Disney’s prolific songwriting team during the 1950s and ‘60s, most famous for their score to the hit Mary Poppins. Featuring interviews with Dick Van Dyke, Angela Lansbury and Roy Disney. Bonuses: Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. WAKING SLEEPING BEAUTY takes a look at the second chapter of Disney’s animation legacy in the 1980s and ‘90s after a long fallow period, that was jumpstarted by films such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Lion King. Featuring interviews with the players who made it happen: Michael Eisner, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Roy E. Disney, and John Lasseter, to name a few. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes; Commentary by director Don Hahn and producer Peter Schneider. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. Imagine releases SONDHEIM: THE BIRTHDAY CONCERT, featuring the biggest names on Broadway performing legendary composer/lyricist Stephen Sondheim’s biggest tunes. Hosted by David Hyde Pierce, with longtime Sondheim collaborator Paul Gemignani conducting the New York Philharmonic. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Widescreen. DTS-HD 5.1 surround. HBO releases ROBERT KLEIN: UNFAIR & UNBALANCED, the legendary comedian’s ninth HBO stand-up special, backed by a full symphony orchestra. Klein takes on a variety of topics, from Barack Obama, to medical marijuana, to gay rights, all with his trademark insight and timeless humor. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. MVD releases DAVID BOWIE: RARE AND UNSEEN, featuring a host of rarely-seen clips of the legendary rocker from his roots in late ‘60s London to more recent interviews, including one from 1999. Great stuff, not to be missed for Bowie fans! Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. Finally, Sony releases THE OFFICIAL FIFA WORLD CUP FILM IN 3D, a stunning film of the 2010 World Cup game in South Africa, enhanced and remastered in Blu-ray and 3-D! A must-have for the soccer fan your family. Widescreen. DTS-HD 5.1 surround.



FOR THE WEE ONES Disney releases a magnificent Blu-ray/DVD double feature of FANTASIA/FANTASIA 2000, with the former being (arguably) the most influential animated feature ever made, combining eye-popping art and color with beautiful music, thought of by many as the precursor to modern music video. “Night On Bald Mountain,” starring Mickey Mouse and one nasty demon, still gives this viewer chills! Hard to believe it was originally released in 1940. Sixty years later, the sequel arrived, which is almost as magnificent as its predecessor, expertly combining stunning images with equally majestic classics from the likes of Beethoven, Gershwin and more. Bonuses: Featurettes; Audio commentaries; Destino, a classic short collaboration between Walt Disney and Salvador Dali. Full and widescreen. Dolby 5.1 and DTS-HD 7.1 surround. STEP UP 3 is the third chapter of the eye-popping dance movie series, this one following a group of tight-knit New York street hoofers who compete against the best hip-hop dancers in the world. Featuring hit songs from Flo Rida, Trey Songz, and Sofia Fresh. Available in a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. Bonuses: Featurettes; Short film; 8 music videos. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 and DTS-HD 7.1 surround. Warner Bros. releases CATS & DOGS: THE REVENGE OF KITTY GALORE, a fun chapter in the pet-friendly series that casts canines, and other cute critters, in this send-up of James Bond-style espionage adventures. This time out, former secret agent Kitty Galore unleashes a diabolical plan to dominate the animal kingdom, uniting dogs and cats for the first time in order to bring Kitty and her plot down. Sure to please the little ones in your home. Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. Bonuses: Featurettes; Outtakes and gag reel; Looney Tunes cartoon; Sneak peak at new Yogi Bear theatrical film. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. LEGEND OF THE GUARDIANS: THE OWLS OF GA’HOOLE is a terrific animated fantasy, helmed by Zack Snyder (Watchmen, 300) about a group of owls who must battle a series of nefarious foes to keep their feathered friends safe. Terrific cast provides the voices, including Helen Mirren, Sam Neill, Geoffrey Rush, Hugo Weaving and Abbie Cornish. Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. Bonuses: Featurettes; Music video; Artwork galleries; Looney Tunes cartoon. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. SUPERMAN/SHAZAM! THE RETURN OF THE BLACK ADAM, is an all-new collection of animated shorts starring two of DC’s most revered heroes, who must do battle against the nefarious Black Adam to keep Gotham City safe. Bonuses: Short adventures featuring Jonah Hex, Green Arrow, Black Canary, and The Spectre. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. 20th Century Fox releases THE DOLPHIN: STORY OF A DREAMER, an all-new animated adventure about Alexander, a little dolphin with big dreams, living in a world where dreams are forbidden. Heartwarming story, beautifully animated, and aimed at the under age 5 crowd. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround. Scholastic/A&E releases SCHOLASTIC STORYBOOK TREASURES: THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS!...AND MORE ANIMAL ADVENTURES, offering 5 classic children’s tales narrated by Paul Giamatti, Zach Braff, and Mandy Patinkin, in a read-along DVD, aimed at ages 3-8. Bonuses: Interviews with Little Pigs author Jon Scieszka and illustrator Lane Smith. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono. Paramount/Nickelodeon releases two Spongebob Squarepants titles: LEGENDS OF BIKINI BOTTOM with everyone’s favorite sponge and his gang tackling the mysteries of the Bikini Bottom Triangle. SPONGEBOB SEASON 6, VOLUME 2 is a two-disc set with all 23 episodes of the hit show’s sixth season, and is a must-have for any die-hard Spongebob fan in your house! Bonuses: Featurettes; Bonus Spongebob shorts. Both are full screen, Dolby 2.0 stereo. Finally, iCARLY SEASON 2, VOLUME 2 offers 12 episodes on two discs of the hit Nickelodeon series, as well as the "iFight Shelby Marx" TV movie special. Bonuses: Featurettes. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.