DVD Playhouse December 2011

DVD PLAYHOUSE—DECEMBER 2011
By Allen Gardner

THE RULES OF THE GAME (Criterion) Jean Renoir’s classic from 1939 was met with a riot at its premiere and was severely cut by its distributor, available only in truncated form for two decades until it was restored to the grandeur for which it is celebrated today. A biting comedy of manners set in the upstairs and downstairs of a French country estate, the film bitterly vivisects the bourgeoisie with a gentle ferocity that will tickle the laughter in your throat. Renoir co-stars as Octave. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Introduction to the film by Renoir; Commentary written by scholar Alexander Sesonske and read by Peter Bogdanovich; Comparison of the film’s two endings; Selected scene analysis by Renoir scholar Chris Faulkner; Featurettes and vintage film clips; Part one of David Thomson’s “Jean Renoir” BBC documentary; Video essay; Interviews with Renoir, crew members, Renoir’s son Alain, actress Mila Parely. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.

MANGUS! (WolfeVideo) A high school senior (Ryan Boggus) in a small town hopes to live up to his family’s tradition of the oldest male playing the lead in the local production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Goofy and broad (in the extreme) comedy recalls the early “trailer trash” comedies of John Waters, and is shot with a masterful eye for the tacky. Not for everyone’s taste, to be sure, but writer/director Ash Christian certainly has a unique voice, and is one to watch. Nice support from Jennifer Coolidge, Heather Matarazzo, John Waters, and Leslie Jordan. Bonuses: Featurettes; Commentary by cast and crew; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

VAMPIRES (IFC Films) Aptly described as the This is Spinal Tap of vampire pictures, this quirky “mockumentary” tells the “true” story of a vampire clan who struggle to keep themselves together while getting along with their neighbors, and quietly assimilating with regular society. Very funny with the appropriate dash of darkness thrown in for a little spice. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

THE WAVE (Sundance Selects) In present-day Germany, a high school teacher attempts to stir up his lethargic students by devising an experiment that will explain what Totalitarianism is. He calls it The Wave. Within days, The Wave has taken over the school, and the teacher finds his lesson coming to life in an all too real way. Extremely well-executed film across the board, although this is a story that has been told so often over the past fifty years, that it brings little if any new light to the subject. Still, worth seeing if you’re a fan of skillful filmmaking. Bonuses: Interviews with cast and crew; Featurette; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

KIDNAPPED (IFC Films) An upper middle class family move into a supposedly secure gated community outside of Madrid, only to find themselves under siege from a gang of Eastern European kidnappers. While one takes dad on a tour of all the nearby ATMs, the other two terrify and torture the mother and daughter until dad returns with the dough. Technically impressive but otherwise incredibly unpleasant and nihilistic, even by the genre’s standards. Winner of Best Picture and Best Director at the 2010 Fantastic Fest, so judge for yourself. Bonuses: Featurette; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

BEHIND THE MASK (aka THE SHADOW BEHIND THE MASK) (MGM/Fox) Pulp fiction hero the Shadow aka Lamont Cranston (Kane Richmond), finds himself framed for the murder of a sleazy, blackmailing journalist. As he attempts to clear his name, the Shadow finds the killer always one step ahead of him, not to mention the interfering antics of Cranston’s fiancée, Margo Lane (Barbara Read). Some clever touches, particularly with the murderer’s game of cat-and-mouse, but this 1946 cheapie sinks when it tries to be a comedy, with no laughs to be found. Fans of the Shadow are sure to be disappointed, in spite of direction from B-movie legend Phil Karlson. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono.

KILL A DRAGON (MGM/Fox) Cheesy, fun drive-in flick from 1967 has a group of Chinese villagers hiring a mercenary (Jack Palance, wonderful as always) and his band of martial arts experts to defend them from a vicious gangster (Fernando Lamas) whose cache of TNT has washed up on their shores, which he wants back. Enjoyable for its sheer trashiness, although the sight of Aldo Ray in drag might put off even the most die-hard B-movie fan. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.

WELCOME TO L.A. (MGM/Fox) Writing/directing debut of Robert Altman protégée Alan Rudolph is a low key gem presenting a perfect time capsule of mid-70s (1977 to be exact) L.A., and the overall feeling of ennui that hangs over a generation of spoiled ex-hippies who quickly realize how empty their lives are. Dream ensemble cast includes Keith Carradine, Harvey Keitel, Sally Kellerman, Geraldine Chaplin, and Harvey Keitel. Produced by Altman. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.

BLUE, WHITE, RED—THREE COLORS BY KRZYSZTOF KIESLOWSKI (Criterion) Inimitable trilogy of stories from one of cinema’s greatest storytellers about life, love and loss was a defining piece of 1990s arthouse moviemaking. Named for the colors of the French flag (which stand for the tenets of the French Revolution—liberty, equality and fraternity), the three films are set in Paris, Warsaw and Geneva, telling a group of ambiguously interconnected tales about people experiencing profound personal disruption, with the genres ranging from tragedy, comedy and a blend of both. Fine turns from Juliette Binoche, Julie Delpy, Irene Jacob and Jean-Louis Trintignant. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Three cinema lessons with Kieslowski; Interviews with cast and crew; Select scene commentary with Binoche; Video essay; 1995 documentary on Kieslowski; Three shorts by Kieslowski; Featurettes; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 2.0 surround.

12 ANGRY MEN (Criterion) A disparate group of citizens (Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Ed Begley, E.G. Marshall, Jack Warden, Martin Balsam, John Fielder, Jack Klugman, Edward Binns, Joseph Sweeney, George Voskovec, Robert Webber) deliberate over a verdict in a murder trial. Director Sidney Lumet’s feature debut put him, and many of his previously unknown cast, on the cinematic map with this lean, mean, utterly brilliant study of human nature and the relativity of guilt and innocence. Dynamite script from Reginald Rose, based on his own play. Bonuses: Franklin Schaffner’s 1955 TV version; Featurettes; Interviews with Lumet, Rose, screenwriter Walter Bernstein; Kinescope teleplay “Tragedy in a Temporary Town,” directed by Lumet, written by Rose; Interview with cinematographer John Bailey; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby 1.0 mono.

RUSHMORE (Criterion) Wes Anderson’s sophomore outing about an obnoxiously precocious prep schooler (Jason Schwartzman), his obsession with a comely grade school teacher (Olivia Williams) and wary friendship with a self-made millionaire (Bill Murray). Anderson’s finest hour to date as a filmmaker, who skillfully makes otherwise reprehensible characters likeable somehow, all with a skillful grace and aplomb that’s nearly seamless. Great soundtrack of obscure classic rock. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary featuring Anderson, co-writer Owen Wilson, and Schwartzman; Featurettes; “Charlie Rose Show” interview with cast and crew; Audition footage; Storyboards; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

GOLDEN NEEDLES (MGM/Fox) B-movie fun stars Joe Don Baker as a man who seeks a Chinese statue containing seven rare acupuncture needles that supposedly offer eternal youth. Helmed by Enter the Dragon’s Robert Clouse, this is a fun pastiche of James Bond-type espionage thrillers and kung-fu action. Also stars Elizabeth Ashley, Burgess Meredith, Ann Sothern and Jim Kelly. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.

TRIPLE TAP (Well Go USA) High-octane thriller from Hong Kong about a competitive marksman who foils a robbery/kidnapping by killing four of the robbers and saving the life of their policeman hostage. When one of the robbers survives, the marksman suddenly finds himself mixed up in police corruption, violent crime and murder. Tough and uncompromising thriller hits hard and offers a myriad of twists and turns. Good show! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES (20th Century Fox) Surprisingly exciting and affecting “prequel” to Planet of the Apes, which tells the “what if” tale of how our simian cousins take over the planet from their more advanced relatives. James Franco stars as a pharmacologist who develops an anti-Alzheimer’s drug by testing it on chimpanzees. When the program’s star chimp, Caesar (Andy Serkis, in an amazing turn aided by state-of-the-art CGI). After suffering a series of abuses and humiliations at the hands of humans, Caesar breaks free and forms a simian army that threatens the existence of mankind itself. Dynamite from start to finish, with fine support from Frieda Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox, and Tom Felton. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes; Commentary by director Rupert Wyatt and writers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

FINAL DESTINATION 5 (New Line) A man has a premonition that a suspension bridge will collapse, saving a group of his coworkers from a grisly death. Fate, however, had other plans for them, and they must race against time to escape the grim reaper’s cold clutches. Attractive cast gets bumped off in inventive and grotesque ways, which is what appeals to certain types of twisted viewers about films of this ilk, but enough already! We were already bored with part 2…Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Alternate scenes; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

ANOTHER EARTH (20th Century Fox) Around the same time Earth-bound scientists discover another planet that exactly mirrors our own, down to its population of exact doubles, an honors student (co-writer Brit Marling) kills a pregnant woman and her young son in a drunk driving accident, leaving the husband (William Mapother) a broken man. After getting out of prison four years later, the repentant girl tries to make amends to her surviving victim without letting on who she really is. Intriguing blend of sci-fi and morality play works for the most part, is sometimes hampered by its micro-budget. Newcomer Marling is a real find: an ethereal beauty who conjures memories of Ingmar Bergman’s leading ladies. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes; Music video. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

THE HANGOVER PART II (Warner Bros.) The inept trio (Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis) from part I find themselves in Bangkok, Thailand with no memory of how they wound up there. While the original managed to be quite funny in spite of itself, this product (and we use that word literally) is utterly devoid of laughter, charm, or any redeeming qualities. Fine actors like Paul Giamatti and Jeffery Tambor have small roles for which they were hopefully well-compensated. Save 102 minutes of your life and avoid! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes; Gag reel. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

BELLFLOWER (Oscilloscope) Two directionless twenty-somethings (writer/director Evan Glodell and Tyler Dawson) who worship the Mad Max films finds their friendship tested when one gets involved with a woman (Jessie Wiseman) who is bad news, their extreme fantasy lives and their desperate reality come crashing together. Microbudget effort is admirable in its scope and its technical execution, but its story is sorely lacking most of the way through. Just when it feels like the momentum is finally picking up, the film collapses like a deflated soufflé, leaving this viewer most unsatisfied. Still, the film has a strong cult following (mostly of twentysomething males), so judge for yourself. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; Outtakes; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

POINT BLANK (Magnolia) A male nurse sees his pregnant wife kidnapped before his eyes and soon finds himself being used as a pawn by a vicious master criminal named Sartet, whose bidding he must follow if he wants his wife and child back alive. Breakneck thriller from France literally never quits from the moment it opens with a furious chase scene. Utterly preposterous if you look at it too closely, but also entertaining as hell! Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurette; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

FRIGHT NIGHT (20th Century Fox) Remake of Tom Holland’s 1986 comic/horror classic about a suburban teen (Anton Yelchin) who finds that a bloodthirsty vampire (Colin Farrell) has moved next door. While the original was a seamless blend of knowing humor, full-throttle horror, and genuine pathos, this soulless retread forgot to include any of the above, and (for the most part) plays it straight, in spite of David Tennant’s best efforts as a Criss Angel-like magician with a vampire obsession. Too bad, as it starts off well, then quickly goes downhill. Watch the original instead (hopefully soon to be on blu-ray), which still holds up beautifully. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; Bloopers; Music video. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

THE HELP (Touchstone/Dreamworks) Based on Kathryn Stockett’s best-selling novel, Emma Stone stars as a tomboyish Southern blue blood in the early ‘60s who finds herself drawn to the Civil Rights movement, specifically helping to empower the African-American woman (Viola Davis) who helped raise her, and the scores of others who have done the same for generations, yet are relegated to little more than slave status in the confines of the Jim Crow South. While it might sound like the makings of a perfect Lifetime movie-of-the-week, The Help is a terrific period drama with very little sentimentality to weigh it down. Bryce Dallas Howard is a hoot playing the antithesis of the fresh-faced good girl she’s come to specialize in, as is rising star Jessica Chastain as an eager new bride from the wrong side of the tracks. Fine support from a dream cast, including Allison Janey, Octavia Spencer, Sissy Spacek, Mary Steenburgen, Aunjanue Ellis and Cicely Tyson. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Deleted scenes; Featurettes; Music video. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

DESIGN FOR LIVING (Criterion) 1933 classic from the great Ernst Lubitsch stars Gary Cooper, Frederic March and Miriam Hopkins as a trio of Americans in Paris who enter into an “understanding” in this very (for its time) risqué, pre-Code sex comedy. Trend-setting rom-com whose influence can still be felt today. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: The Clerk, starring Charles Laughton, Lubitsch’s contribution to the 1932 anthology film If I Had a Million; Select scene commentary by film scholar William Paul; British TV version of Design for Living from 1964, introduced by Noel Coward; Interview with film scholar and screenwriter Joseph McBride. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.

THE LADY VANISHES (Criterion) One of Alfred Hitchcock’s great early works (1938), this comic thriller stars Margaret Lockwood as a woman traveling across Europe by train who meets a charming spinster (Dame May Whitty), who then seems to vanish into thin air. The young woman soon turns detective and tries to find what became of her missing friend. Michael Redgrave also stars in this classic. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Commentary by film historian Bruce Eder; Crooks Tour, a 1941 feature starring Basil Radford and Nauton Wayne as their characters from The Lady Vanishes; Excerpts from Francois Truffaut’s 1962 audio interviews with Hitchcock; Video essay by Hitchcock scholar Leonard Leff; Stills gallery. Full screen. Dolby 1.0 mono.

CHILLERAMA (Image) At the last night of operation of the final drive-in movie theater in America, a legendary B-movie producer shows a series of rare horror films to a waiting audience. Clever anthology picture is a loving tribute to campy horror flicks, with the five told tales done in deliberately cheesy, over-the-top fashion. Great fun, just don’t expect David Mamet to show up under the screenwriting credits. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Director commentary; Featurettes; Trailers; Deleted scenes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

MARGIN CALL (Lionsgate) Set during the early stages of the 2008 recession, an entry-level analyst in an investment firm stumbles upon damaging evidence that could bring down the company and land its principals behind bars. Terrific kitchen sink drama set in the world of Brooks Brothers suits and Rolex watches, with a dream cast doing some of their best work in years. Kudos to Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Zachary Quinto, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell, Demi Moore and the great Stanley Tucci. Aptly described by one critic as “The day the money died,” this might be the best portrait yet of the fall of Wall Street. Bonuses: Director and producer commentary; Featurettes; Deleted scenes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

STARS AND STRIPES FOREVER (20th Century Fox) Released in 1952, this is a largely fictionalized “biography” of legendary composer John Philip Souza (well-played by the great Clifton Webb) and his days leading the Marine Corps marching band, circa 1890. Film slows to a crawl when focusing on romance between fresh-faced youngsters, played by the very young and fresh-faced Robert Wagner and Debra Paget. That said, it’s beautifully-shot and designed, with stunning Technicolor cinematography and filled with Souza’s rousing marches. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; Pressbook, advertising and still galleries; Trailer. Full screen. Dolby and DTS-HD 2.0 mono.


BLU BAYOU

MGM/Fox releases some great archival titles, starting with Joseph Sargent’s THE TAKING OF PELHAM ONE TWO THREE, one of the 1970s’ best thrillers, about a very tough group of hijackers (Robert Shaw, Martin Balsam, Hector Elizondo, Earl Hindman) who commandeer a New York City subway car and threaten to kill a hostage a minute if their ransom demands aren’t met. Enter transit cop Walter Matthau, who must outwit the very clever and deadly serious leader of the gang, expertly played by Shaw. One of cinema’s greatest cat-and-mouse games, with the final payoff an absolute doozy. Disc has a sorely missed lack of extras, however. Widescreen. DTS-HD 2.0 mono.

THE BIG COUNTRY is director William Wyler’s 1958 classic about an Easterner (Gregory Peck, who also co-produced with Wyler) who travels west only to find himself in the middle of a feud between two powerful landowning families. Rousing blend of western, sweeping romance and epic drama, with Jerome Moross’ score one of the decade’s best and most iconic. Fine support from Jean Simmons, Burl Ives, Carroll Baker, Charlton Heston and Chuck Connors. Bonuses: Featurette; TV spot; Trailer. Widescreen. DTS-HD 2.0 mono.

QUIGLEY DOWN UNDER is low-key, likable western set Down Under, starring Tom Selleck as an American cowpoke and sharpshooter who finds that his mission to “kill some wild dogs” is actually a thinly-veiled order to slaughter Aboriginals from a wealthy cattle baron (Alan Rickman)’s land. Handsomely shot film is epic in scope, but laid-back in execution. Not a great film, but certainly a serviceable one, with the always genial Selleck ably carrying the show. Bonuses: Documentary; TV spots: Trailer. Widescreen. DTS-HD 2.0 surround.

TORA! TORA! TORA! is director Richard Fleischer’s look at the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, from both the Japanese and American points-of-view (the Japanese scenes were directed by Toshio Masuda). Shot with documentary-like realism, leading up to a spectacular recreation of the attack, truly one of the greatest movie spectacles ever filmed. Fine cast includes Martin Balsam, James Whitmore, E.G. Marshall, Jason Robards. Rousing score by Jerry Goldsmith. Bonuses: Commentary by Fleischer and Japanese film historian Stuart Galbraith IV; Documentary; Featurettes; Photo galleries; Fox Movietone News; Trailer. Widescreen. DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

Lionsgate releases Sylvester Stallone’s THE EXPENDABLES: EXTENDED DIRECTOR’S CUT, the testosterone-fueled tale of mercenaries hired to overthrow a ruthless South American dictator. A major disappointment, especially considering the who’s-who cast of action movie vets (Stallone, Jet Li, Jason Statham, Eric Roberts, Dolph Lundgren, Steve Austin, Mickey Rourke and cameos by Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger). Loaded with wall-to-wall explosions, geysers of blood, and zippy one-liners, but also lifeless and dull to the point of being sleep-inducing. The director's cut contains 10 minutes of additional footage plus alternate takes, dialog and soundtrack, but it doesn’t help. Bonuses: Intro by Stallone; Featurettes. Widescreen. DTS-HD 7.1 surround.

eOne releases Pier Paolo Pasolini’s MEDEA, the auteur’s 1969 adaptation of Euripides’ classic play, about the queen/sorceress (legendary diva Maria Callas) who sacrifices everything to win the heart of Jason, leader of the Argonauts, then destroys everything in her path when Jason betrays her. Shot on location in Greece with Pasolini’s signature neo-realism, this is a stunning adaptation of timeless literature, which Pasolini would follow with The Decameron, The Canterbury Tales, and Arabian Nights. Bonuses: Documentary by Tony Palmer, About Callas. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.



DON’T TOUCH THAT DIAL!

eOne releases  IT TAKES A THIEF: THE COMPLETE SERIES, a handsome, 18-disc box set featuring Robert Wagner as Alexander Mundy, TV’s most suave cat burglar-turned-secret agent. From 1968-70, the series’ 65 episodes featured Wagner in one high-wire escapade after another, usually involving the theft of another government’s secrets and a gorgeous dame (or three) waiting in the wings. Malachi Throne is wonderful as Mundy’s reluctant handler, as is Fred Astaire, featured in several episodes as Mundy’s equally-adept burglar father. Bonuses include: Extended feature-length version of pilot episode; Interviews with Wagner and series creator Glen A. Larson; Limited edition senitype reproduced 35mm film frame; 4 piece coaster set; Collectible booklet with retrospective essay. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono.

BEING HUMAN: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON follows three paranormal twenty-something roommates living in Boston: a vampire (Sam Witwer), a werewolf (Sam Huntington), and a ghost (Meaghan Rath), as they struggle to hide their dark secrets from the world, while helping each other navigate the complexities of living double lives and trying to be human. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Featurettes; Interviews with cast and crew. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

UNDERBELLY: THE TRILOGY is a stunning miniseries from Australia that tells the true story of a crime family that ruled Down Under from the 1970s through the early 2000s. The three parts are “A Tale of Two Cities,” which shows how two low-level criminals changed the face of organized crime in Oz; “The Golden Mile,” a portrait of cops and criminals building an empire of excess; and “War On the Streets,” showing the rise and fall of a master criminal during one of the world’s bloodiest crime wars. A stunning blend of “The Sopranos” and “The Wire,” along with a flavor entirely its own, this dynamite collection is a must-see for lovers of true crime. Bonuses: Featurettes; News reel footage. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

Lionsgate releases TYLER PERRY’S MEET THE BROWNS: SEASON 3, a three-disc collection of the third season’s 19 episodes, which finds the Brown family dealing with all the challenges of day-to-day living: job hassles, marital problems, rebellious children and love troubles. Terrific ensemble cast helps bring the material to life. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

20th Century Fox releases THE SIMPSONS: THE FOURTEENTH SEASON, featuring all 22 episodes of the series that has become an American institution. Loaded with inventive satire, outrageous characters and television’s most inimitable dysfunctional nuclear family. Bonuses: Audio commentary by cast and crew; Intro by series creator Matt Groening; Featurettes; Deleted scenes with commentary; Sketch gallery; Multi-angle animation showcase; Bonus horror episodes. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround. History/New Video releases

SWAMP PEOPLE: SEASON TWO, is the reality hit that takes us into the world of Cajuns in the Atchafalaya Swamp and a lifestyle that’s remained virtually unchanged for hundreds of years. See how these amazing people live off the land, catching frogs, squirrels and raccoons, not to mention wrestling alligators with their bare hands! Bonuses: Additional footage. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.



DOCUMENTARY DAYS

Sundance Selects releases Werner Herzog’s CAVE OF FORGOTTEN DREAMS, a look at the Chauvet Cave in France, which houses the oldest cave drawings yet discovered, dating back some 30,000 years. The art itself is stunning, as is the cinematography by Peter Zehlinger, but this is one of the few times where Herzog’s trademark voice-over becomes grating after a while, and the film quickly wears out its welcome after about the 40 minute mark, seemingly having nowhere else to go, but retreading ground already covered. Would have worked beautifully as a long short subject, but not as a feature-length film. Blu-ray edition also features 3D edition. Bonuses: Ode to the Dawn of Man, a short by Herzog; Trailer. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

PBS releases THE FABRIC OF THE COSMOS, WITH BRIAN GREENE, a compilation of four episodes of the TV series which looks at space, time, and the very nature of reality. The episodes “What is Space?” “The Illusion of Time,” “Quantum Leap” and “Universe or Multiverse?” all delve into how our perceptions have fooled us, why time might be an illusion, how a hidden realm might hide what would otherwise seem impossible, and more. Also available on Blu-ray disc.

RADIOACTIVE WOLVES looks at the “dead zone” around the former Chernobyl nuclear reactor in Russia after the deadly accident in 1986, leaving nearly 1100 square miles unsafe for humans. In the interim, forests, marshes and animals have reclaimed the land, becoming a post-nuclear Eden of sorts, with the roost being ruled by packs of wolves. Fascinating look at how nature perseveres in the face of adversity. Also available on Blu-ray disc.

JUNGLE EAGLE looks at the Harpy Eagle, the most powerful bird of prey in the world, that lives in the South American rainforest. The top predators in the jungle canopy, feeding primarily on monkeys and sloths. Wildlife filmmaker Fergus Beeley and his team of cameramen were able to capture some extraordinary footage of these magnificent creatures and the world they inhabit. Also available on Blu-ray disc.

MY LIFE AS A TURKEY Interesting look at Joe Hutto, a wildlife artist and naturalist in Florida, who raises a flock of turkeys from egg to adulthood, and the bond that formed between them. Funny, sad and thought-provoking examination of the bond between man and beast. Also available on Blu-ray disc.

FAITH & DOUBT AT GROUND ZERO is a “Frontline” special that looks at how the values of believers and non-believers have been challenged in the post-9/11 world. Interviews with rescue workers from Ground Zero, clergy members, and people from a host of backgrounds and beliefs makes this a fascinating journey into the mysteries of faith.

Four episodes of the ROUGH CUT series arrive on disc, featuring master furniture craftsman Tommy MacDonald showing you how to make your own home furnishings from scrath. Episodes include “Arm Chair,” “Serving Cart,” “Dressing Mirror,” and “Pie Crust Tray.” All discs include printable plans, as well. All are widescreen, Dolby 2.0 stereo.

H.M.S. PINAFORE is a record of Minnesota’s Guthrie Theater production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s legendary operetta. Story of a proud naval captain’s daughter who falls in love with an ordinary sailor in spite of her father’s preference for a more sophisticated suitor has retained all the charm that made it G & S’ first blockbuster. Bonuses: Mini-doc—“Arts Scene: Minnesota; Featurette. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

STEVE JOBS: ONE LAST THING takes a look at the late Apple founder’s life, philosophy and work ethic, and also how his unique imagination helped reshape the world as we know it today. Through stock footage, interviews with colleagues and friends, and a never-before-broadcast interview with Jobs himself, we get a unique insight into the mind and world of a genius. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

WOMEN, WAR & PEACE is a bold miniseries narrated by Matt Damon, Tilda Swinton, Geena Davis and Alfre Woodard revealing how women have been agents of change in today’s wars—purposefully targeted oftentimes, but essential for the quest of peace and justice. Four episodes include “I Came to Testify,” “Peace Unveiled,” “The War We Are Living,” and “War Redefined.” Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

TOO IMPORTANT TO FAIL takes a clear-eyed look at the challenges facing African-American teenage boys as they navigate their way to adulthood. Examining the lives of boys in Philadelphia, Chicago, Oakland and Los Angeles, host Tavis Smiley talks with kids who are achieving against enormous odds and the adults who refuse to let them fail. Powerful and inspirational. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

History/New Video releases VIETNAM IN HD, a stunning six-hour miniseries the captures the sights, sounds and stories of the Vietnam War through stunning color footage, as well as interviews with the men who fought and survived. Narrated by Emmy-nominee Michael C. Hall, the series also features some of Hollywood’s top talent who narrate the wartime accounts. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Wide and full screen. Dolby and DTS-HD 2.0 stereo.

Vivendi releases PACKERS: ROAD TO XLV, a vivid look at the Green Bay Packers’ triumphant season in 2010 and their eventual ultimate victory as Super Bowl XLV champs. Four discs contain four complete football games: Packers vs. Eagles, Packers vs. Falcons, Packers vs. Bears, and Super Bowl XLV featuring the Packers vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

MVD releases NEW YORK DOLLS: LOOKIN’ FINE ON TELEVISION, a collection of films by Nadya and Bob Gruen that charts the legendary band’s ascension in the heady days of the early ‘70s New York punk scene. Loaded with rare, never-before-seen footage of the band at work and at play, a must for all Dolls fans and lovers of pop culture history. Features fifteen of the Dolls’ biggest hits. Bonuses: 1976 interview with David Johansen and Johnny Thunders. Full screen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

GUNS AND WEED: THE ROAD TO FREEDOM is a stunning examination of Constitutional issues in the U.S., including abuse of authority by police, the war on drugs, self-defense, states’ rights, natural rights, problems of a two-party system and taxation. Interview subjects include Sheriff Richard Mack, MamaLiberty, Shane Scheid, Neema Vedadi, J-Tizzle, Michael W. Dean, and many more. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

eOne releases PABLO FRANCISCO: THEY PUT IT OUT THERE, a record of the comic’s live act in which he waxes on subjects ranging from pop culture, politics and relationships, all with his unique brand of manic energy that can only be compared to a jazz rift wired on espresso. Bonuses: Infomercial; Outtakes; Featurettes; Photo shoot. Widescreen. Dolby 2.0 mono.



FOR THE YOUNG ‘UNS


Lionsgate releases the fourth (and we hope final) installment of Robert Rodriguez’s children’s franchise: SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD, a direct-to-DVD title starring Jessica Alba, Alexa Vega, Daryl Sabara and Jeremy Piven in a strained tale that has baddie Piven attempting (what else?) world domination, with only the intrepid Alba, her two adorable step kids standing in his way. The first couple films were great fun, but leave the dead horse alone, already! Bonuses: Interview with Rodriguez; Deleted scenes; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

Disney releases two direct-to-DVD titles: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: THE ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS, in which Mrs. Potts recounts another tale to her audience about Belle and Beast, in which the evil court composer Forte schemed to keep them apart forever during the holidays. Also available on Blu-ray disc. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: BELLE’S MAGICAL WORLD, features Belle, Beast, Cogsworth and all your other favorite characters as they discover how teamwork and friendship can turn a once-gloomy castle into a dazzling palace fit for a princess. Bonuses on both include: Sing-alongs; Featurettes; Music videos. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

PREP & LANDING is a zippy animated tale about two elves, Wayne, a weary veteran, and Lanny, an eager young rookie, who are part of an elite team that travel the globe and prep homes for Santa’s impending visits. When Wayne is assigned to show Lanny the ropes, they encounter one unexpected challenge after the other, threatening their schedule, and endangering Christmas for children everywhere. Great fun for the entire family. Bonuses: Animated short films; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

20th Century Fox releases ICE AGE: A MAMMOTH CHRISTMAS SPECIAL, a holiday-themed tale that has Sid accidentally destroying Manny’s heirloom Christmas rock and ends up on Santa’s “naughty” list. In order to set things right, he embarks on an odyssey to the North Pole, only to make things much worse! Great family fun. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Sneak peek of Ice Age: Continental Drift; Music video. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS stars Jim Carrey as a successful businessman who is utterly selfish and clueless about anything other than himself, until he gets the unexpected present of six adorable penguins. After his swank bachelor pad is turned into a winter wonderland, his life is turned upside down. Silly slapstick prevails throughout, but it’s sure to please the kids on your Christmas list. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Animated short; Deleted scenes; Gag reel; Featurettes. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

Warner Bros. releases DOLPHIN TALE, an inspirational true story of the bond between animals and humans. When a boy names Sawyer discovers an injured dolphin, it is brought to a marine hospital and named Water. Due to her severe injuries, Water loses her tail and may not survive. With the love and determination of Sawyer, a dedicated marine biologist (Harry Connick, Jr.) and the brilliance of a prosthesist (Morgan Freeman) charged with creating Water a new tail, Water gets a second chance at life. Charming family film was a big hit at the box office, and features fine support from Kris Kristofferson and Ashley Judd. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Animated short; Featurettes; Bonus scene; Gag reel. Widescreen. Dolby and DTS-HD 5.1 surround.

Paramount/Nickelodeon release SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS COMPLETE SEVENTH SEASON, a 4-disc set that features over 9 hours of Spongebob hilarity and adventures, including SB’s entire modeling career, Squidward’s public television career, and Mrs. Puff’s complete Krusty Krab career, and much, much more. Bonuses: Five animated shorts. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo. DORA LOVES BOOTS features 4 Dora the Explorer tales where she helps Boots in a series of adventures, including “Boots’ First Bike,” “Bouncy Boots,” “The Big Red Chicken’s Magic Wand,” and “Vacaciones!” Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

Lionsgate releases THE THREE INVESTIGATORS IN THE SECRET OF SKELETON ISLAND, adapted from the popular “Alfred Hitchcock and the Three Investigators” book series, featuring Jupiter, Pete and Bob checking out the exotic mountains and deserts of Skeleton Island, where they must capture an evil treasure hunter, battle a terrifying mythical creature, and rescue a pretty girl. Sure to please older kids and pre-teens. Bonuses: Featurettes; Photo gallery; Trailers. Widescreen. Dolby 5.1 surround.

PBS KIDS releases two “Arthur” titles: ARTHUR THE GOOD SPORT and ARTHUR HOORAY FOR HEALTH! Each disc contains 8 adventures starring the world’s most famous aardvark, and his family and friends, the former feature sports and teamwork-themed stories, the latter stories about healthy eating and living. Perfect for pre-school and early grade school-aged kids. Bonuses: Printable coloring pages and activities. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 stereo.

Scholastic releases CALDECOTT FAVORITES, a three DVD set featuring 20 stories that have won the prestigious Caldecott Medal, divided up into three sections: “The Ezra Jack Keats Collection,” “Antartic Antics,” and “Make Way for Ducklings.” Featuring voice work by John Lithgow, Laura Dern, Lynn Whittfield, and other celebrity actors. Bonuses: Spanish versions of select stories; Read-along. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono.

GIVING THANKS contains four stories involving America’s native heritage and how the holiday of Thanksgiving was born out of the relationship between the country’s original settlers and the native peoples with whom they co-existed. Stories are: “Giving Thanks,” “Hiawatha,” “The Pilgrims of Plymouth,” and “Lincoln & Douglass: An American Friendship.” Narrated by Danny Glover, Chief Jake Swamp, and more. Bonuses: Interview with author Nikki Giovanni; Read-along. Full screen. Dolby 2.0 mono.