Tag Archives: DVDs

November 9, 2008 · 12:22 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Nov. 9

 

Po completes his training and receives the Dragon Scroll in "Kung Fu Panda."

Po completes his training and receives the Dragon Scroll in "Kung Fu Panda."

Children and fantasy fans shouldn’t have trouble finding a movie this week because DVD releases include the sequel to “Hellboy,” a new “Star Wars” adventure and a delightful animated comedy from DreamWorks.

 

Kung Fu Panda
3 1/2 stars (out of four)
Rated PG for sequences of martial arts action
DreamWorks
Available now on DVD and Blu-ray

DreamWorks Animation has another winner in “Kung Fu Panda,” a creative feature about Po, an overweight panda bear who dreams of becoming a martial arts hero.

He gets his chance when Master Oogway, the most famous martial artist in his land, announces that Po is destined to become the Dragon Warrior, a fierce fighter with the power to defeat an evil and feared leopard named Tai Lung. Po’s anointment doesn’t sit well Master Oogway’s protégé, Master Shifu, who can’t imagine turning Po into a hero. Shifu would rather see one of his long-time students — known collectively as the Furious Five — become Dragon Warrior.

In order for the lowly Po to fulfill his destiny, he must overcome not only the prejudice of others but his own self doubt.

“Kung Fu Panda” is wonderfully realized, with every animal character rendered in glorious detail. While this makes the movie great to look at, it’s the clever storytelling and fantastic voice cast that really set it apart. Comedian Jack Black voices Po, infusing him with an irresistible, manic energy. Other big-name voicers include Dustin Hoffman as Master Shifu and Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Jackie Chan and Lucy Liu as members of the Furious Five.

The movie is available by itself or in a two-pack with the short film “Secrets of the Furious Five.” The latter is a cute, 24-minute picture in which Po explains how members of the Furious Five got their starts.

 

Hellboy II: The Golden Army
3 stars (out of four)
Rated PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi action and violence and some
language
Universal
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

Writer-director Guillermo del Toro’s second stab at the Hellboy franchise is a considerable improvement over his first. This time, he’s delivered a comic book movie that is fast-paced, filled with great special effects and often quite funny.

The plot has Hellboy, a powerful demon who fights for America under the auspices of the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense, attempting to stop the spiritual world from starting a war on humanity. The leader of the spiritual rebellion is Prince Nuada (Luke Gross), a powerful warrior who is angry that his father agreed to a truce with humanity eons before.

Convinced that his kind should rule the world, Nuada schemes to take control of a mechanical army that is said to be indestructible. Hellboy (Ron Perlman) does his best to foil Nuada’s plans with the help of other heroes possessing special abilities, most notably his fiery girlfriend, Liz (Selma Blair), and the amphibian Abe Sapien (Doug Jones).

“Golden Army” is heavy on action, and most of the sequences are beautifully staged, making the film terrific eye candy.

It is available on single-disc releases and on a three-disc special edition. Extra features vary.

 

This Christmas
2 stars
Rated PG-13 for comic sexual content and some violence
Sony Pictures
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

Why do people watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” year after year after year? Because new holiday classics are hard to come by. Writer-director Preston A. Whitmore II did his best to create one with “This Christmas” but, like most of his filmmaking peers, he came up short.

“This Christmas” takes a hard look at the Whitfield family, which is gathering together for the holidays for the first time in years. The matriarch is Ma’Dere (Loretta Devine), a traditional mother who insists that her live-in boyfriend, Joe (Delroy Lindo), pretend that he has his own place when the kids are around.

While Ma’Dere puts on her holiday charade, her children deal with their own issues. Her oldest daughter (Regina King) is trying to convince everyone to sell the family business. A son (Idris Elba) is being chased by small-time thugs. Another son (Chris Brown) is hiding his desire to become a full-time musician.

Believe it or not, that’s just the half of it, and that’s the problem with “This Christmas.” There are so many characters and subplots that it is difficult to invest in any of them, which is too bad because the cast is very good.

DVD extras include deleted and extended scenes, a filmmakers’ commentary, a making-of feature and a music video featuring Brown.

 

Star Wars: The Clone Wars
3 stars (out of four)
Rated PG for sci-fi action violence throughout, brief language and momentary smoking
Warner Brothers
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

Like Cartoon Network’s “Clone Wars” television series, the action in this animated feature is set between the live-action “Star Wars” films “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith.”

When Jabba the Hutt’s son is kidnapped, Jedi knights Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi are asked to rescue the infant in an effort to garner favor with Jabba, who controls crucial shipping routes. The mission isn’t simple because the renegade count Dooku and his apprentice Ventress are working to assure their failure. Also, Anakin must watch over his new Padawan learner Ahsoka.

“Clone Wars” has a lighter tone than the live-action movies, and that makes it kid appropriate, but it is also well-plotted enough for adults to enjoy. The stylized animation is a cross between anime and more traditional computer-generated imagery, but it isn’t as detailed as in most modern theatrical releases. Still, the look is generally appealing, and the many action sequences are beautifully choreographed.

All in all, “Clone Wars” is an enjoyable adventure film that “Star Wars” junkies will do well to check out.

The movie is available on a single-disc release and a two-disc special edition. Extra features vary.

 

ALSO OUT TUESDAY

“Beer for My Horses”: Country singer Toby Keith co-wrote this adventure comedy with comedian Rodney Carrington. It was inspired by one of Keith’s songs, and he and Carrington star as deputies who defy orders in hopes of saving a friend who was kidnapped by drug dealers.

Walt Disney Treasures: For years, Buena Vista Home Entertainment has been treating fans to vintage cartoons and television shows via its Disney Treasures releases. The latest are “The Chronological Donald: Volume Four,” “The Mickey Mouse Club Presents Annette” and “Dr. Syn: The Scarecrow of Romney Marsh.” The Donald Duck set includes 31 of the popular character’s cartoons released between 1951 and 1961. “Annette” collects 20 episodes of Annette Funicello’s daily TV series about a country girl who moves to the suburbs to live with her rich aunt and uncle. Lastly, “Dr. Syn” features all three installments of the 1960s Disney miniseries about a parson with a heroic alter ego.

“The Boys in the Band”: Director William Friedkin’s 1970 relationship drama about gay men who gather for a birthday party but experience something more outrageous was restored just for this DVD. The film is considered a groundbreaking piece of gay cinema, and it stars Leonard Frey, Kenneth Nelson, Peter White, Laurence Luckinbill and Cliff Gorman.

“Scrubs” — Season Seven: The seventh season of this medical comedy about employees of Sacred Heart teaching hospital was abbreviated by the Hollywood writers’ strike, but 11 episodes still made it on air. This two-disc set has them all.

“Thomas Kinkade’s Christmas Cottage”: Direct-to-DVD film based on painter Thomas Kinkade’s life. The film tells the story of a young Kinkade (Jared Padalecki) who returns from college to find that his mother (Marcia Gay Harden) is in danger of losing her home. He is inspired to paint a mural and discovers his calling while infusing others with the Christmas spirit.

“7th Heaven” — The Seventh Season: All 22 episodes from the seventh season of this long-running family drama about a Protestant minister and his family.

“The Streets of San Francisco” — Season 2, Volume 2: Twelve episodes of the classic police drama centered on investigators Mike Stone (Karl Malden) and Steve Keller (Michael Douglas).

“Studio One” Anthology: Seventeen episodes of “Studio One,” which aired teleplays in the 1940s and 1950s. Included are presentations of “June Moon” with Jack Lemmon and Eva Marie Saint, “Twelve Angry Men” with Robert Cummings, “1984” with Eddie Albert and Lorne Greene, and Julius Caesar with Theodore Bikel.

“Son of the Beach” — Volume 2: The action — and comedy — centers on a squad of lifeguards known as Shore Patrol 30. Produced by Howard Stern, “Son of the Beach” is essentially a “Bay Watch” parody. This set includes unaired episodes from season two along with every regular episode of season three.

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November 2, 2008 · 6:40 am

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Nov. 4

Anne Hathaway and Steve Carell in "Get Smart."

Anne Hathaway and Steve Carell in

The DVD world paused to catch it’s breath this week, as there is only one major theatrical release making its way onto video. But, as usual, we’ve got plenty of television shows, reissues and direct-to-DVD titles to take up the slack.

 

Get Smart
2 stars (out of four)
Rated PG-13 for some rude humor, action violence and language
Warner Brothers
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-Ray

Big screen adaptations of television shows have become commonplace at the multiplex, and this is the latest. Like the 1960s television show that it’s based on, “Get Smart” follows the adventures of Maxwell Smart (Steve Carell), a well meaning but often incompetent secret agent.

On his first assignment, Max is paired with Agent 99 (Anne Hathaway), a veteran operative who reluctantly takes him under her wing. As they work together, Max’s technique improves and 99 begins to warm up to him. Then, another spy calls Max’s loyalty into question, putting his career and America in danger.

Carell and Hathaway are talented actors and their character readings are solid. Unfortunately, the “Get Smart” script isn’t nearly as entertaining as they are. The pacing is slow and good gags are intermittent, leaving viewers with a picture that is more ponderous than funny.

The film is available in single-disc versions and a two-disc special edition. Extra features vary.

 
Futurama: Bender’s Game
3 stars
Unrated
20th Century Fox
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

“Futurama,” brainchild of “Simpsons” creator Matt Groening, has endured one of the strangest runs in television history. Initially, the animated show aired on Fox from 1999 to 2003. Then, production ceased but reruns were broadcast on Cartoon Network. Fast forward to 2007 when “Futurama” was reborn.

The original creative team gathered with the idea of making four direct-to-DVD movies that could be split into individual episodes and aired on Comedy Central. The latest — and third — of those films is “Bender’s Game,” an homage to the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons.

For folks who don’t know “Futurama,” a primer. The animated series is set in the 31st century, and it revolves around the adventures of Philip J. Fry, a 21st century man who made it to the future after being cryogenically frozen. He and his friends, including a mutant named Leela and testy robot named Bender, work for a delivery company owned by eccentric professor Hubert J. Farnsworth.

In “Bender’s Game,” the title character discovers he has an imagination and embraces it by playing Dungeons & Dragons.
Alas, Bender uses his imagination too frequently and eventually goes mad. Meanwhile, Professor Farnsworth enlists his employees’ help in bringing a greedy fuel executive down a notch.

The two stories intertwine when Bender magically transports everyone into an alternate dimension where they are forced to play out an adaptation of “The Lord of the Rings.” It sounds bizarre because it is. But it’s also a lot of fun.

“Bender’s Game” is filled with pop culture references and witty asides that are often more entertaining than the overall story. Although the show is animated, the language and content are targeted at adults. And those who like science fiction and sharply scripted humor should find it a pleasant distraction.

DVD extras include an audio commentary by the filmmakers, a storyboard animatic, a bit on Dungeons & Dragons and deleted scenes.

 
Reaper: Season One
3 1/2 stars
Unrated
Lionsgate
Available Tuesday on DVD

Few television shows are as good out of the box as “Reaper,” a supernatural dramedy that blends “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”-style action and special effects with a significant helping of laughs.

Bret Harrison plays Sam, a lowly box store employee who is shocked to discover that his parents sold his soul to Satan (Ray Wise). As if that’s not bad enough, he also learns he must work for the Devil as a bounty hunter … or suffer unpleasant consequences.

Most episodes involve Sam and his wacky friends — the uber-slacker “Sock” (Tyler Labine) and the more conservative Ben (Rick Gonzalez) — capturing demons who have escaped from Hell. This setup gives individual episodes a strong beginning, middle and end, but the screenwriters also include a variety of ongoing stories.

The most important side plot involves Sam’s quest to find a way out of his devilish contract. Also in play is his desire for a romantic relationship with his friend Andi (Missy Peregrym); a contentious relationship with his boss, Ted (Donavon Stinson); and a plot by friendly demons to unseat Satan.

Too often, television series — even good ones — start with poor character development, but the “Reaper” ensemble created layered and well-fleshed-out characters at episode one. Wise is particularly winning as the Devil, who effortlessly swings from genial to menacing.

This five-disc set includes all 18 season-one episodes plus extra features including audio commentaries, deleted scenes and a gag reel.

  
ALSO OUT TUESDAY

“Return to Sleepaway Camp”: This direct-to-DVD addition to the “Sleepaway Camp” franchise is timed to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the original, 1983 film. The story centers on campers at rural Camp Manabe who experience a series of bizarre accidents. The tragedy recalls the bloodbath that took place years before at nearby camp Arawak, the setting for the original picture.

“Spin City” — Season One: It’s hard to believe this television sitcom is just now getting a DVD release, but better late than never. Michael J. Fox stars as Mike Flaherty, the workaholic deputy mayor of New York City. Along with an oddball cast of cohorts, he keeps the city government churning. Barry Bostwick, Richard Kind, Alan Ruck, Michael Boatman, Connie Britton and Alexander Chaplin also star.

“Get Smart” — The Complete Series Gift Set: If Steve Carell’s “Get Smart” remake stirs nostalgia for the television series, this 25-disc set should more than sate your appetite. It includes all 138 episodes of the original series with Don Adams as secret agent Maxwell Smart and Barbara Feldon as the voluptuous Agent 99.

“Star Wars” — The Prequel Trilogy: This set offers the opportunity to purchase “The Phantom Menace,” “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith” in a boxed set. Each movie was already available ala carte, so there’s no new content.

“Shrek the Halls”: Set after “Shrek the Third,” this half-hour animated adventure plugs the Shrek characters into a holiday setting.

The Bourne Trilogy: As spy thrillers go, Matt Damon’s outings as amnesiac secret agent Jason Bourne are top-notch. This set includes the franchise’s original film — “The Bourne Identity” — plus both sequels, “The Bourne Supremacy” and “The Bourne Ultimatum.”

The Wild Wild West — The Complete Series: Fans of the 1960s science fiction Western can own all four seasons thanks to this 27-disc gift set. The show follows the adventures of secret service agents James West (Robert Conrad) and Artemus Gordon (Ross Martin), who traveled in a high-tech train protecting President Ulysses S. Grant and other American interests.

The Gregory Peck Film Collection: A six-disc set from Universal featuring some of Peck’s best-known films. Included are “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “Cape Fear,” “Arabesque,” “Mirage,” “Captain Newman, M.D.” and “The World in His Arms.”

Planet of the Apes — 40th Anniversary Collection: All five of Charlton Heston’s “Planet of the Apes” movies are available on Blu-ray for the first time. They can be purchased collectively through this set or individually.

A Christmas Story — Ultimate Collector’s Edition: Repackaging of the much-loved holiday movie about a 1940s boy who desperately wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. The film has been available on DVD for years, but this version includes a variety of memorabilia. The film is also being released on Blu-ray for the first time.

Batman — The Complete Animated Series: What’s with all the huge, multi-disc sets? We’re heading into the holiday season, meaning distributors are trotting out as many high-end gift ideas as possible. For fans of the Dark Knight, this is a good one. “Batman the Animated Series” is a superbly made superhero cartoon, and this collection includes every episode.

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October 28, 2008 · 11:51 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Oct. 28

(Left to right) Brendan Fraser, Josh Hutcherson and Anita Briem in "Journey to the Center of the Earth."

It’s an outstanding week for home video, particularly when it comes to family viewing. Not only has Disney released a new direct-to-DVD title, but we got a great family film from Abigail Breslin and an enjoyable remake of a science-fiction classic.

 
Journey to the Center of the Earth
3 stars (out of four)
Rated PG for intense adventure action and some scary moments
New Line Cinema
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

As science-fiction films go, “Journey to the Center of the Earth” places the emphasis squarely on fiction, and that’s OK.

Anyone willing to buy into the concept of dinosaurs living within the Earth’s core shouldn’t much care that the plotting is ridiculous. The basic story — introduced in Jules Verne’s novel — has always been nutty, yet it’s still classic. In this version of the tale, Brendan Fraser plays Trevor Anderson, a scientist obsessed with finding his long-missing brother, Max.

Max believed the stories in Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth” novel were based on fact, and he failed to return from an expedition to prove such. So, Trevor decides to embark on a similar adventure in hopes of finding Max and making scientific history.

Along with Max’s young son, Sean (Josh Hutcherson), and a mountain guide named Hannah (Anita Briem), Trevor begins an expedition in Iceland. In short order, the three explorers find themselves falling deep into the Earth’s core and learning that the fanciful stories in Verne’s novel are indeed true.

The storytelling is so silly that it can’t be taken seriously, but it’s also loads of fun. What’s more, the PG-rated action is intense enough to be interesting but not so overwhelming that it will scare most youngsters. That makes “Journey” a great movie for young families.

The DVD releases include 2-D and 3-D versions of the film, and the 3-D effects are great.

DVD extras include a commentary by Fraser and Brevig, a short feature on Hutcherson, and historical theories about our planet’s core.

 

Kit Kittredge: An American Girl
3 ½ stars
Rated G
New Line Cinema
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray
This wonderful feature is oh so timely in our trying economic times. Born from the American Girl doll and book franchise, the movie tells the story of Kit (Abigail Breslin), a 10-year-old living through the Great Depression in Cincinnati.

When Kit’s father (Chris O’Donnell) loses his car dealership, forcing him to leave home and look for work in Chicago, it turns life upside down. Doing whatever she can to keep their home, Kit’s kindly mother (Julia Ormond) takes in boarders who become part of the extended family.

The movie has the warm glow and conservative spirit of a picture made in the 1940s or 1950s, but the technical prowess of a modern effort. That’s a winning combination, and G rated films like this are too rare.

DVD extras are limited to trailers for other “American Girl” products and a handful of features available only to those with a computer DVD drive and internet connection.

 
Abbott & Costello: The Complete Universal Pictures Collection
4 stars
Unrated
Universal
Available on: DVD
The average movie fan may not be interested in all 28 films that Bud Abbott and Lou Costello made for Universal, but this set is a collector’s dream. It comes in an attractive cardboard chest packed with 15 discs containing the movies and numerous bonus features.

There are far too many titles to review individually, but most folks already know if they like Abbott and Costello. And fans will be in nirvana with this collection.

Of particular note this time of year are the titles “Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein” (1948), “Abbott and Costello Meet The Killer, Boris Karloff” (1949), “Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man” (1951), “Abbott and Costello Meet Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” (1953) and “Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy” (1955). As part of an early Halloween celebration, I watched “Frankenstein” with my 4- and 7-year-old sons, and it is amazing how well the storytelling holds up. The film is filled with slapstick moments, and features some terrific vintage performances, making it an outstanding choice for family viewing.

Abbott and Costello were about more than horror-comedies, so it’s important to note that the set also includes “In the Navy” (1941), “Buck Privates” (1941), “In Society” (1944), “Abbott and Costello Meet the Keystone Cops” (1955), and many more.

 
Tinker Bell
2 ½ stars
Rated G
Disney
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray
Everyone knows the story of Tinker Bell’s friendship with Peter Pan, but Tink’s origination was always a mystery … until now.

This direct-to-DVD title reveals where the famous Disney fairy came from, and it packs a valuable message about the need for varied talents and personalities in our world. Although the storytelling isn’t as layered as in most of Disney’s theatrical releases, it is strong enough to keep the interest of children.

“Tinker Bell” is also surprisingly beautiful for a direct-to-video title. The imagery is stunning throughout, surpassing the animation seen even in a handful of big screen features.

DVD extras include a guide to the fairy realm, a feature on how the filmmakers created it for screen, deleted scenes and a new music video.

 
Zombie Strippers
1 ½ stars
Available in an unrated version and the theatrical cut, which was rated R for strong violence and gore, sexuality/nudity and language
Sony Pictures
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray
Patterned after the low-budget horror-sexploitation films that were rampant in the 1970s, “Zombie Strippers” tells of a renegade zombie who escapes extermination to spread his curse to a Nebraska strip club.

When the joint’s top stripper (former porn star Jenna Jameson) gets massacred on stage, it looks like bad news for the club owner, Ian (Robert Englund). But when she mysteriously reanimates and takes the stage again, it becomes clear that men find zombie strippers even hotter than regular gals. In fact, the live nude girls have difficulty competing with the undead, so some of them willingly convert.

As the title suggests, there is plenty of nudity and an equal amount of over-the-top gore. Unfortunately, there aren’t as many laughs as the goofy premise would suggest.

It’s fairly clear that writer-director Jay Lee wanted “Zombie Strippers” to be like “Planet Terror,” the excellent B-movie homage director Robert Rodriguez delivered last year. The potential was there but the execution isn’t witty or loose enough to merit a recommendation … even at Halloween.

Special DVD features include two making-of features, deleted scenes, and a commentary with Jameson, Englund, Medina and director Jay Lee.

 
ALSO OUT THIS WEEK


“Hell Ride”: Executive producer Quentin Tarantino teamed with writer-director Larry Bishop to make this homage to the motorcycle flicks of the 1960s and ’70s. Dennis Hopper, Michael Madsen and Vinnie Jones star as bikers looking for vengeance against a rival motorcycle gang that killed one of their loved ones.

“Animal House” — 30th Anniversary Edition Gift Set: This memorable 1978 comedy about college kids behaving badly has achieved cult status. It’s been released on DVD numerous times before, but this two-disc set — packaged in a frat house-shaped box — includes the film, a new documentary about it and exclusive Scene-It games. John Belushi, Tim Matheson, John Vernon, Verna Bloom and Tom Hulce star.

“The Polar Express” 3-D: It may be bad form to start talking Christmas before the Halloween decorations are down, but there’s no denying the quality of this 2004 animated picture about kids who take a magical ride to the North Pole. This release marks the first time the film has been available on Blu-ray, and both regular and Blu-ray editions come with special glasses and the option of 3-D viewing.

“Mystery Science Theater 3000” — 20th Anniversary Edition: In this bizarre television series, an oddball collection of supposed space travelers provide humorous commentary for terrible B-movies. The set includes four of the show’s most-requested episodes plus a collection of bonus content.

“Dale Earnhardt 10 Greatest Wins”: NASCAR fans can relive some of the late driver’s greatest moments on the track with this five-disc collection. Featured races are the 1984 Talladega 500, the 1987 Winston, the 1989 Southern 500, the 1993 Coca-Cola 600, the 1995 Busch Clash, the 1995 Brickyard 400, the 1995 Save Mart Supermarkets 300, the 1998 Daytona 500, the 2000 Cracker Barrel 500 and the 2000 Winston 500.

Complete television series sets: As studios gear up for the holidays, they’re trotting out an increasing number of large, multi-disc sets designed for gift giving. This is a particularly busy week, as complete collections of more than five television series are hitting stores. The shows range from relatively new — “The 4400” — to old-time classics — “The Little Rascals,” “The Flintstones,” “Sanford and Son.” And, of course, there are a couple that fall in between — “Newsradio” and “Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman.” All of these sets have suggested retail prices exceeding $50, but you get a lot of viewing for the money.

 

Forrest Hartman is a film critic for the Reno Gazette-Journal, KTVN-TV (Reno), Alice Radio (Reno), the Free Daily Observer (Hotchkiss, CO) and New Jersey Voice. Contact him at forrest@forresthartman.com.

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October 19, 2008 · 1:53 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Oct. 21

This week’s crop of DVDs brings a comic book action film, a horror-thriller and a heady documentary from comedian Ben Stein.

The Hulk flexes for his latest big screen appearance.
The Hulk flexes for his latest big screen appearance.

The Incredible Hulk
2 1/2 stars (out of four)
Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense action violence, some frightening sci-fi images and brief suggestive content
Universal
Available Tuesday on DVD, Blu-ray

This new take on the Marvel Comics’ hero the Hulk has the same problem as director Ang Lee’s 2003 film. Namely, the title character — a huge, green behemoth — looks like he walked straight out of a computer game.

This isn’t troubling when Hulk is relegated to shadows or fast-moving flashes of action, but any time the camera delivers a close-up, it’s clear that he’s an animated character in a realistic world. Viewers who are able to move beyond this visual distraction can enjoy “Hulk” as a pure popcorn flick. Those who can’t are out of luck.

The story begins in a Brazilian slum where Bruce Banner (Ed Norton) has been practicing meditation and other martial arts disciplines in order to suppress his emotions and prevent him from transforming into the Hulk. He has things dialed in until a U.S. Army general named Ross (William Hurt) attempts to capture him, causing a major Hulk out in the process.

One thing leads to another and Banner winds up in the U.S. hoping to find a scientific method to permanently get rid of the Hulk. Instead he finds a nutty soldier (Tim Roth) who has purposely dosed himself with the same chemicals that turned Banner into a monster. The result? A creature named the Abomination that is even angrier and more destructive than Hulk. Everything leads to a battle between these two titans, and it’s a good one, even if the characters do look out of place next to their live-action co-stars.

“The Incredible Hulk” is being released in multiple editions, including single-disc versions and a three-disc special edition. Extra features vary.

 
The Strangers
1 star
The DVD includes rated and unrated versions. The theatrical cut is rated R for violence/terror and language
Universal
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

Writer-director Bryan Bertino’s “The Strangers” was supposedly inspired by true events, but the more research one does, the more the claim seems like salesmanship. Snake-oil salesmanship that is.

It’s tough to find a definitive source, but many sites argue that it was inspired by the Manson Family murders, which although gruesome bare only a minor resemblance to events in the film. Of course, that says more about the honesty of the filmmakers and promoters than the film itself.

As horror pictures go, “The Strangers” is deftly crafted and suspenseful. It focuses on Kristen McKay (Liv Tyler) and James Hoyt (Scott Speedman), a young couple who retire to a country home after having a relationship squabble. Already drained, they find themselves in the midst of a nightmare when masked thugs begin terrorizing them. At first, it seems the assailants are more interested in frightening them than harming them, but things get progressively more violent.

Like director Michael Haneke’s “Funny Games,” the film is basically scenes of the two victims being mercilessly tortured. And, as with Haneke’s film, that is its downfall.

“The Strangers” is intense and frightening, but it is also morally bankrupt and devoid of valuable themes. The fact that the filmmakers decided to claim a false connection to reality, indicates that even they may have found their work hard to justify. Unfortunately, for them, an “inspired by true events” tag doesn’t change anything.

The DVD includes rated and unrated versions of the film, deleted scenes and a feature called “Elements of Horror.”

 
Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed
2 1/2 stars
Rated PG for thematic material, some disturbing images and brief smoking
Vivendi Entertainment
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

Actor and comedian Ben Stein’s “Expelled” is for the religious right what director Michael Moore’s films are for the liberal left. Although both filmmakers sell their works as documentaries, they are better described as rants or filmic opinion pieces. And, in my mind, that’s just dandy.

Discussion of controversial issues is key to life in America, and it’s nice to hear views from both sides of the aisle. “Expelled” argues that we are being subjected to scientific blacklisting, where researchers who discuss the possibility of intelligent design are routinely fired. And Stein presents some compelling evidence for this finding.

The trouble with opinion pieces, of course, is that they present only one side of the issue and generally ignore facts that fail to support their conclusions. It’s like listening to only one half of a political debate, and that’s the difference between good journalism and many of today’s so-called documentaries.

Everyone can agree that the majority of today’s scientific community has a bias against creationism. And, if the Creationism Vs. Darwinism argument is taken far enough it is possible to hit a standstill. It is therefore interesting to hear Stein’s thoughts on the issue.

Bottom line: “Expelled” brings up interesting points that merit discussion, but it should in no way be considered a thorough examination of the subject. For that, personal research is required. Whether movies like this hope to encourage such research is debatable, but I believe they are most valuable when they convince viewers to seek out further information on their own.

DVD extras include bonus music tracks, a message from Stein, and a piece on using intelligent design for medical research.

 
ALSO OUT TUESDAY

“The Incredible Hulk” — The Complete Fifth Season: With the new Hulk movie on DVD, Universal decided it was the perfect time to roll out the fifth and final season of the popular 1970s and ’80s television show. Because the series was canceled during season-five filming, this set has only seven episodes spread over two discs. Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno star.

“Sold Out: A Threevening With Kevin Smith”: Most people know Kevin Smith as the writer and director of “Clerks,” “Chasing Amy,” “Mallrats” and numerous other films. But Smith is also a funny and talented public speaker and comedian. He’s so good, in fact, that that he’s able to sell DVDs of his Q&A speaking engagements. “Threevening” is his third such release, and it’s a two-disc affair boasting more than five hours of uncensored material.

“Missing”: This 1982 film dramatizes the search for American journalist Charles Horman, who disappeared during the 1973 coup in Chile. The movie won the Palme d’Or at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival and it landed an Oscar for best adapted screenplay. Stars Jack Lemmon and Sissy Spacek also received Oscar nominations for their performances. This release comes courtesy of the outstanding Criterion Collection, and it includes an entire disc dedicated to extra features.

“Knight Rider” — The Complete Collection: The new “Knight Rider” television series wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the original 1980s drama that ran four seasons on NBC. The series related the exploits of Michael Knight (David Hasselhoff), a police detective rescued from near death and given a new life fighting crime with the help of a sentient car named K.I.T.T. Universal’s DVD set includes every episode of the series, plus the “Knight Rider 2000” television movie.

James Bond films: MGM seems to release new versions of its James Bond pictures on DVD every couple of years. This week is special, however, because the company is not only reissuing a number of Bond titles, it is trotting them out on Blu-ray for the first time. Available are “Casino Royale,” “From Russia With Love,” “Thunderball,” “For Your Eyes Only,” “Dr. No,” “Live and Let Die” and “Die Another Day.”

“The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” — The Complete Series: This 1960s television series told the stories of international spies teaming up to fight an evil organization known as Thrush. Now, all 105 episodes are being released in a single, 41-disc set.

Looney Tunes Golden Collection — Volume 6: Warner Brothers’ latest collection of animated shorts includes 60 cartoons featuring the likes of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Tweety and Sylvester. The four-disc set retails for $64.92. Those who want a smaller dose of Looney Tunes can opt for Spotlight Collection 6, a two-disc set with only 30 cartoons retailing for $26.99.

“According to Jim” — Season One: The family comedy starring Jim Belushi and Courtney Thorne-Smith gets a deluxe, four-disc treatment including all 22 episodes from the debut season.

“Family Guy” — Vol. 6: This television series about a dysfunctional cartoon family has always been a favorite on DVD. The new release includes three discs of material new to video. Fans who don’t already own previous seasons may also want to consider “Family Guy”: The Complete Series, a 22-disc set including more than 100 episodes and a number of extra features.

— Forrest Hartman is the film critic for the Reno Gazette-Journal, Alice Radio and KTVN-TV. E-mail him at Forrest@ForrestHartman.com.  

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October 10, 2008 · 5:01 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Oct. 14

The release of the fourth Indiana Jones film is the big DVD news this week, but those who aren’t interested in the exploits of the aging adventure can tap into a couple independent efforts.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
2 1/2 stars (out of four)
Rated PG-13 for adventure violence and scary images
Paramount
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

It’s easy to get excited when Harrison Ford dons a fedora and starts swinging a whip because Indiana Jones is one of his greatest characters. Alas, this fourth entry in the franchise is also the weakest.

Set 20 years after Indy’s last big-screen adventure, “Crystal Skull” finds the adventurous archeologist living at the height of the Red Scare. Even he has the FBI looking into his background, but this doesn’t much matter because he isn’t in the U.S. for long.

After a quick introduction, Indy and a young protégé named Mutt (Shia LaBeouf) take off on a mission to locate a missing professor (John Hurt). This quest not only brings the adventurer together with his old love Marion (Karen Allen), it finds him battling a group of evil Russians led by Cate Blanchett.

The first few acts of “Crystal Skull” are well staged and entertaining but the movie gets increasingly silly as it wears on. Because Indy is such a well-loved character we’re able to put up with the goofiness, but director Steven Spielberg has done far better work.

The movie is available in single-disc and two-disc versions, and extra features vary.

Mongol: The Rise of Genghis Khan
3 1/2 stars
Rated R for sequences of bloody warfare
New Line Cinema
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

This excellent biopic about Genghis Khan’s transition from put-upon youth to leader of men received a nomination for best foreign language film at last year’s Academy Awards. It didn’t win the category, but it’s still worth watching.

Shown in Mongolian, with English subtitles, the movie starts with Genghis as a young man named Temudjin. He was supposed to inherit the role of khan of his tribe, but his father’s untimely death instead caused the tribe to abandon him.

The movie depicts how these events, and other hardships, strengthened Temudjin (Tadanobu Asano) and prepared him to unite all the tribes of Mongolia. The film also details his relationship with his wife, Borte (Khulan Chuluun).

“Mongol” is heavily romanticized and fictionalized, with director Sergei Bodrov choosing to portray Temudjin as a brave and idealistic leader rather than the brutal warrior of legend. The movie also covers a vast time, forcing Bodrov to skip past important moments in Temudjin’s career. This is frustrating but it doesn’t change the fact that the picture is gorgeously shot and emotionally powerful.

The DVD has no significant extra features.

War, Inc.
2 stars
Rated R for violence, language and brief sexual material
First Look Studios
Available Tuesday on DVD and Blu-ray

War is not an easy topic to satirize, which is one reason “Dr. Strangelove” is such a classic. Unfortunately, “War, Inc.” isn’t “Strangelove” no matter how badly it wants to be.

John Cusack stars as Brand Hauser, a highly trained hitman plying is trade in a not-so-distant future where America is controlled by big business. Corporate America has become so immersed in government, in fact, that a private business has been allowed to wage war on a Middle Eastern nation.

Hauser, as an agent of the company, is sent to the occupation zone to eliminate a foreign oil minister. His cover? Trade show producer.

Already questioning his profession, Hauser tries to plan his hit while babysitting a Central Asian pop star (Hilary Duff) and sparring with a beautiful journalist (Marisa Tomei). It’s enough to drive an assassin batty.

“War, Inc.” has moments, and its attack on corporate greed is welcome. But satires are supposed to be funny and there’s nary a laugh. What’s more, Joshua Seftel’s presentation is too over the top, even for a supposed comedy.

The DVD has no significant extra features.

ALSO OUT TUESDAY

“The Universe” — The Complete Season Two: Science buffs are sure to enjoy this five-disc collection dedicated to the place that we live. Of course, the Milky Way Galaxy is only a small part of what’s covered, as the show looks at the entire cosmos using computer visualizations of everything from exoplanets to cosmic collisions.

Ghost House Underground: It wouldn’t be October without a host of horror films making their ways into local video outlets. Ghost House Underground is an eight movie set featuring titles from around the world selected for inclusion by director Sam Raimi (“Army of Darkness,” “Spider-Man) and producer Rob Tapert (“The Evil Dead,” “The Grudge”). The titles are “The Last House in the Woods,” “No Man’s Land: The Rise of Reeker,” “Dark Floors,” “Room 205,” “Dance of the Dead,” “Trackman,” “Brotherhood of Blood” and “The Substitute.” The movies are available individually for $19.98 or in the set for $159.98.

A VeggieTales Movie — The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: The Veggie gang is back playing three characters who lack the confidence, drive and courage to fulfill their dreams. When a mysterious artifact whisks them back in time and into a pirate adventure, everything changes.

“Nash Bridges” — The First Season: Every season-one episode of this 1990s drama starring Don Johnson and Cheech Marin as San Francisco Bay area detectives.

“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” — The Eighth Season: More crime scenes and more investigations from everyone’s favorite forensic scientists. Particularly noteworthy this season? William Friedkin (“The Excorcist”) directed an episode.

“SpongeBob SquarePants — Who Bob What Pants”: Six episodes of the “SpongeBob” television series available on DVD for the first time.

“Fighter Pilot — Operation Red Flag”: Blu-ray release of the large-format film originally shown in IMAX theaters. Viewers find themselves in the cockpit of a high-tech fighter, as a young pilot goes through the Red Flag combat training exercise.

“Holiday Inn”: Universal offers a 3-disc treatment of the Irving Berlin holiday film featuring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire as two guys competing for the same gal. This set includes the original, black-and-white film plus a colorized version.

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October 6, 2008 · 11:32 am

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Oct. 7

This week’s home video crop is led by an Adam Sandler comedy, a thriller by the director of “The Sixth Sense” and the re-release of a classic Disney picture.
You Don’t Mess With the Zohan
1 1/2 stars (out of four)
Available unrated and in the theatrical cut, which was rated PG-13 for crude and sexual content throughout, language and nudity
Columbia Pictures
Available on: DVD and Blu-ray

Adam Sandler offers his take on Middle East politics by playing a Mossad agent named Zohan who tires of killing Palestinian terrorists, fakes his death, and moves to the U.S. to become a hair stylist. He is heartened to see that Palestinians and Jews work side by side in the States, and he even takes a job at a salon owned by a Palestinian-American.

Alas, Zohan’s past comes back to haunt him when a man that he wronged (Rob Schneider) discovers that he’s still alive. Soon enough, Zohan is forced into a showdown with a top Palestinian operative known as The Phantom (John Turturro). At stake? Peace between Arabs and Israelis … and Zohan’s career as a stylist.

Like every Sandler comedy, “Zohan” has good moments. Trouble is, there’s not enough of them. The film is poorly written, dull and predictable, and those aren’t qualities you find in a good comedy.

The movie is available on single-disc and two-disc releases, some featuring an unrated cut of the film. Extra features vary by version.

The Happening
2 stars
Rated R for violent and disturbing images
20th Century Fox
Available on: DVD and Blu-ray

It’s looking more and more like writer-director M. Night Shyamalan’s career won’t regain the luster it had from 1999 to 2004, when he released “The Sixth Sense,” “Unbreakable” and “Signs.” The first and last of that group were among the best movies released during their period, and “Unbreakable” was a lightweight-yet-likable thriller.

Since, Shyamalan’s work has been on a downward spiral. “The Village” (2004) was a passable suspense film, but “Lady in the Water” (2006) was nearly unwatchable and “The Happening” isn’t much better.

The story is built around the creepy premise that an unknown toxin is making its way through the airstreams of eastern U.S. cities causing everyone exposed to instantaneously commit suicide. When high school science teacher Elliot Moore (Mark Wahlberg) learns of the problem, he gathers his wife (Zooey Deschanel) and makes plans to get out of Philadelphia. Joining the Moores on their journey is Elliot’s friend Julian (John Leguizamo) and his daughter, Jess (Ashlyn Sanchez). As the group flees toward what they hope is a safer area, the suicide epidemic spreads until Elliot and company find themselves at the center of the outbreak zone with no idea what’s going on.

The premise is scary and many parts of the story are nicely presented, but Shyamalan’s work is inconsistent. As the characters attempt to make their way to safety, they — and the audience — learn more about the toxin and the way it spreads. But the rules of the outbreak are nonsensical, and there are plot holes everywhere. Beyond that, “The Happening” doesn’t seem to have a point. It could be interpreted as a plea for environmental awareness, but it certainly isn’t a well-reasoned one.

Sleeping Beauty
3 stars
Rated G
Disney
Available on: DVD and Blu-ray

When released in theaters, “Sleeping Beauty” didn’t make nearly enough money to cover its $6 million budget, and the results were disastrous for Walt Disney Productions. But with time, the 1959 film gained a large following, and it is now considered a classic.

The story tells of a beautiful princess cursed to remain unconscious until true love’s kiss sets her free. The storytelling is on the slow side, but the visuals are spectacular, particularly considering when the movie was made. “Sleeping Beauty” is also the ultimate “princess movie.” It features a group of benevolent fairies, an evil dark fairy, a strapping prince and, of course, a radiant and lovable heroine.

The film also has an excellent score, as it was based partially on Tchaikovsky’s “Sleeping Beauty” ballet and features much of the composer’s music.

Disney has released “Sleeping Beauty” in the past, but this 50th anniversary edition has been beautifully digitally restored. What’s more, the Blu-ray version is the first ever high-definition release of a Disney animated classic. As with most of Disney’s animated films, it will only be sold for a limited time.

DVD extras include a documentary on the making of “Sleeping Beauty,” deleted songs, deleted scenes, an alternate open and more.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

“Touch of Evil”: This re-release of director Orson Welles’ 1958, film noir effort features three versions of the film. The first is the theatrical cut, which was tampered with by Universal executives. The second, is a re-edited version restored to Welles’ original vision. The third is Welles’ 1957 rough cut.

“The Munsters: The Complete Series”: With Halloween around the corner, Universal decided it was time to roll out all 70 episodes of this vintage television comedy about a family of lovable monsters. Also included in the set are the two feature-length “Munsters” movies. People who don’t want to spring for the entire series, can purchase the “Family Portrait” episode (colorized and in the original black-and-white) on a separate DVD.

“30 Rock” — Season 2: The NBC comedy series about the behind-the-scenes operations on a television show gets the full DVD treatment. Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, Tracy Jordan and Jenna Maroney star.

“Feast II — Sloppy Seconds”: A sequel to the original “Feast,” which was made by winners of the reality television show “Project Greenlight.” As with the first picture, “Sloppy Seconds” is about bloodthirsty monsters that go on a killing spree.

“Joy Ride 2 — Dead Ahead”: Direct-to-DVD sequel to “Joy Ride.” Once again, a psychopathic big rig driver terrorizes a group of young people.

Classic Christmas Favorites: This Warner Brothers DVD set features 10 animated holiday films, including “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” “Frosty’s Winter Wonderland,” “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and “Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July.”

“Robot Chicken” — Season III: Twenty recent episodes of the offbeat, stop-motion animated comedy series that airs on Cartoon Network.

“The Smurfs” — Season 1, Vol. 2: Who doesn’t love the animated blue pixies who live in Smurf Village and battle the evil Gargamel? This two-disc set includes 20 episodes of the animated television series.

“You’re Not Elected, Charlie Brown”: If the current presidential race has overwhelmed your political sensibilities, this Peanuts video may help you loosen up. Charlie Brown decides to back Linus in his run for student body president, but a skeleton in the closet may come back to haunt them.

Hitchcock classics: Three of director Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpieces — “Psycho,” “Vertigo” and “Rear Window” — have been re-released on two-disc, special edition DVDs with numerous extra features.

“Keeping Up With the Kardashians”– Season One: First season of the reality television series detailing the lives of Hollywood’s Kardashian/Jenner family.

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September 30, 2008 · 11:45 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Sept. 30

It’s a slow week for mainstream video releases, but the two big titles hitting stores are among the best of the year so far.

Iron Man
3 1/2 stars (out of four)
Rated PG-13 for some intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence,
and brief suggestive content
Paramount Pictures
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

“The Dark Knight” may be the superhero film of 2008, but “Iron Man” is a close second. Based on the popular Marvel Comics books, the film centers on Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), a brilliant scientist who heads a weapons manufacturing company.

When viewers meet Stark, he’s arrogant and careless, but that changes when a military convoy that he’s traveling with is attacked and he’s nearly killed by one of his own weapons. Suddenly awakened to the horrors that his products inflict, Stark manufactures a suit of high-tech armor and begins playing hero in hopes of making amends.

“Iron Man” packs all the action and special effects one expects from a summer blockbuster, but it’s also an intelligent film with solid plotting and interesting political undertones. Downey, a brave choice to play a comic book hero, is wonderful, and his supporting cast — Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard and Jeff Bridges — is outstanding.

Bottom line: “Iron Man” is super.

The film is available in single-disc and two-disc versions. Extra features vary.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall
3 1/2 stars
Unrated
Universal
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

“How I Met Your Mother” star Jason Segel proved he is more than a television front man by writing and starring in this outstanding and raucous romantic comedy. Segel wrote himself the role of Peter Bretter, a Hollywood composer famous for his relationship with actress Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell). He’s fine playing second fiddle to her stardom until she dumps him for a ridiculous rock star named Aldous Snow (Russell Brand).

In despair, Peter books a Hawaiian vacation to get Sarah off his mind. Then, she and Aldous show up at the same resort. In a stubborn effort to prove that he’s fine without her, Peter refuses to leave, leading to a series of wonderful relationship gags and the possibility of a new romance with a beautiful hotel employee (Mila Kunis).

“Sarah Marshall” is inventive, unusual and consistently funny. It’s also extremely raunchy, with graphic nudity and profanity making its way into countless scenes. This won’t be a problem for folks who enjoy movies like “Knocked Up” and “Superbad,” but those who prefer tamer fare could be offended. That’s worth chancing though because movies as funny as “Sarah Marshall” don’t come along often.

The picture is available in single-disc and three-disc unrated versions. Extra features vary.

Bigger, Stronger, Faster
3 stars
Rated PG-13
Magnolia Home Entertainment
Available on: DVD

Director Chris Bell’s documentary on anabolic steroid abuse in the U.S. is entertaining, informative and surprisingly personal. That’s because Bell and his two brothers grew up idolizing famous muscle men like Hulk Hogan, and both of his siblings are consistent steroid users.

Although hardly pro-steroid, “Bigger, Stronger, Faster” shows a side of steroid use that rarely makes its way into the media. For example, the movie questions the difference between athletes who take steroids and musicians who take anti-anxiety medication. The film also dares to question whether steroids are really as unhealthy as their reputation suggests.

The real point of the film, however, is not to make a judgment on steroid use. Rather, it’s to examine the mentality that drives people to take them. Ultimately, Bell asserts that the American quest to be No. 1 has a poisoning effect on society, and it’s tough to argue against his premise.

Folks with no interest in athletics or drug abuse may find “Bigger, Stronger, Faster” long-winded, but Bell does his best to keep the tone light and entertaining. The result is a documentary that leaves viewers with some thinking to do.

DVD extras include 40 minutes of deleted scenes and a behind-the-scenes featurette.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

“Taxi to the Dark Side”: This documentary about government abuse of power — particularly as it relates to the torture and killing of an innocent Afghani taxi driver — won the 2007 Oscar for best documentary feature.

“Beauty and the Beast” — The Complete Series: Fans of this 1980s fantasy drama can now catch every episode on DVD. In the first two seasons, Linda Hamilton stars as a New York assistant district attorney and Ron Perlman plays the man-beast who befriends her. Hamilton left after two seasons, leaving Jo Anderson to take over as the new female lead in season three.

“Ax Men” — The Complete Season One: All 13, first-seaon episodes of the History Channel reality series about loggers in the Pacific Northwest.

“When We Left Earth” — The NASA Missions: Four-DVD set looking at human space exploration. This material was originally broadcast on the Discovery Channel as part of a documentary miniseries, but this set contains nearly four hours of material that wasn’t shown on TV.

“Numb3rs” — The Fourth Season: Another season of the FBI crime drama where special agent Don Eppes (Rob Morrow) engages the help of his mathematical genius brother, Charlie (David Krumholtz), to solve crimes.

“Pulse 2”: Direct-to-DVD horror sequel about phantoms who haunt the living through cellular phones and wi-fi devices. Jaime Bamber and Boti Bliss star.

“My Three Sons” — The First Season, Volume 1: There’s something charming about old-school sitcoms. In this one from the 1960s, Fred MacMurray plays Steve Douglas, a widower doing his best to raise three sons on his own.

“My Name is Earl” — Season Three: The continuing adventures of a one-time ne’er do well (Jason Lee) trying to make up for all the bad things he’s done. Doesn’t sound like it, but it’s a comedy.

“An Autumn Afternoon”: The final film of Japanese director Yasujiro Ozu, this 1962 effort focuses on a widower overseeing the wedding of his grown daughter. Presented by the Criterion Collection.

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September 23, 2008 · 11:50 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Sept. 23

It’s a good week for comedy, with George Clooney, Simon Pegg and Danny McBride all offering films designed to make us laugh. What’s more, the “Sex & the City” movie has fashion fans everywhere drooling in their cosmos.

Sex and the City
3 stars (out of four)
Rated R for strong sexual content, graphic nudity and language
New Line
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

After knocking people out for years on HBO, “Sex and the City” made a successful trip to the big screen this year. And why not? The movie version of “SATC” is a solid relationship drama featuring strong performances in all key roles.

Sarah Jessica Parker is Carrie Bradshaw, a fashion-loving writer who is about to settle down with her on-again-off-again boyfriend “Mr. Big” (Chris Noth). And, because you can’t have a wedding without friends, Carrie’s TV series pals are on hand to help her prepare.

There’s Samantha (Kim Cattrall), the sex addict; Miranda (Cynthia Nixon), the hard-working attorney; and Charlotte (Kristin Davis), the stay-at-home mom. Although the movie is built around Carrie’s impending marriage to Big, each lady gets a complete story arc. That makes the film longwinded, but the solid performances overshadow all dead spots.

Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the series. Writer-director Patrick King crafted a story that allows viewers to quickly “get” each character, so newcomers and longtime fans can watch and enjoy together.

The movie is available on a single DVD or on a 2-disc special edition featuring an extended cut. Extra features vary.

Leatherheads
3 1/2 stars
Rated PG-13 for brief strong language
Universal
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

George Clooney can’t seem to do wrong, at least not in the entertainment field. He’s been a fine actor for years, and with 2002’s “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind” and 2005’s “Good Night, and Good Luck” he proved an adept director.

In “Leatherheads,” he stars and directs, handling both roles beautifully. The film is a throwback to 1930s and 1940s screwball comedies, with Clooney playing Jimmy “Dodge” Connelly, an aging football player trying to keep his professional team afloat during the uncertainty of the 1920s.

Desperate, Dodge hires college football’s biggest star, Carter Rutherford (John Krasinski). His plan works, but it also sparks a classic love triangle, as Dodge and Carter both fall for a no-nonsense reporter played by Renee Zellweger.

“Leatherheads” is essentially an homage to Golden Era movies so it plays like a film made 60 years ago. The dialogue is sharp and the performances stylized, making it perfect for folks who love classic cinema and long walks down memory lane.

DVD extras include deleted scenes, a commentary with Clooney and producer Grant Heslov and several making-of features.

Deception
2 stars
Rated R for sexual content, language, brief violence and some drug use
20th Century Fox
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

One would think a thriller centered on executive sex clubs would be too titillating to fail, but “Deception” is surprisingly bland. Ewan McGregor stars as Jonathan McQuarry, a hard-working accountant who is so immersed in numbers that he doesn’t have a social life. That changes when he meets Wyatt Bose (Hugh Jackman), a smooth-talking businessman who knows how to live it up.

When Jonathan mistakenly ends up with Wyatt’s phone, he’s introduced to a club where business people routinely hook up for commitment- and guilt-free sex. Jonathan is intrigued but realizes he’s not cut out for such a radical lifestyle when he meets a beautiful blonde (Michelle Williams) that he wants to start a relationship with. Before he can go any further, he learns that he’s been sucked into a radical blackmail scheme with the girl, millions of dollars and his life at stake.

The premise of “Deception” is decent, but director Marcel Langenegger telegraphs several key plot twists, leaving viewers with a thriller that forgets to thrill.

DVD features include deleted scenes, a making-of short, and a commentary by Langenegger.

Run, Fatboy, Run
3 stars
Rated PG-13 for some rude and sexual humor, nudity, language and smoking
New Line
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

What happens when a middle-aged Brit realizes he made a mistake by running out on his pregnant girlfriend? He tries to make up for it — and prove that he can commit — by competing in the ultimate athletic event, a marathon.

Things would have been easier for Dennis Doyle (Simon Pegg) if he had stuck with his girl (Thandie Newton), especially since she is now involved with a handsome American named Whit (Hank Azaria). But simplicity doesn’t suit a good romantic comedy, and “Fatboy” is good.

Pegg is so winning that he keeps viewer interest even when the plot becomes routine, and his supporting cast — especially Harish Patel as Dennis’ landlord and coach — is equally strong.

Special DVD features include a filmmakers’ commentary, deleted scenes and outtakes.

The Foot Fist Way
1 1/2 stars
Rated R for strong language and some sexual content
Paramount
Available on: DVD

Danny McBride is no household name, but recent appearances in “Pineapple Express” and “Tropic Thunder” are putting him on the map. While he was a supporting player in those big-budget flicks, he is the main man in “The Foot Fist Way,” an independent comedy about Fred Simmons, a moronic tae kwon do instructor.

As Simmons, McBride is the worst possible leader, speaking to his young students in an inappropriate manner, running down their self esteem, and even placing them in physical danger. The concept has comic value, especially since there are martial arts instructors who have no business working with children. Unfortunately, the gags aren’t consistent enough to merit a recommendation.

DVD extras include bloopers, deleted and extended scenes, an alternate ending and a commentary by McBride and director Jody Hill.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

The Godfather — The Coppola Restoration Collection: Might this be an offer you can’t refuse? Classic gangster films “The Godfather” and “The Godfather, Part II” have been painstakingly restored to provide better picture quality, and “The Godfather, Part III” has been digitally remastered for DVD. The films, which are frequently ranked among the best in American cinema, are also available on Blu-ray for the first time.

Reno 911!: Miami — More Busted Than Ever! Unrated Cut: New release of the “Reno 911!” movie featuring an unrated cut and a new “lost” version.

High School Musical 2 — 2-Disc Deluxe Dance Edition: The popular youth-friendly movie gets a new DVD treatment with never-before-seen extra features.

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September 16, 2008 · 11:59 pm

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Sept. 16

This week’s crop of videos includes something for everyone: a fast-paced family adventure, taut crime thriller, trite romantic comedy, and touching documentary. Surely, there’s something appropriate for that upcoming movie night.

Speed Racer
4 stars (out of four)
Rated PG for sequences of action, some violence, language and brief smoking
Warner Brothers
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

With its over-the-top visuals, stylized acting and fast-moving plot, “Speed Racer” is one of the greatest cartoon adaptations ever put to screen. The only down side is that most people don’t have a home theater capable of recreating the theatrical experience. But don’t let that stop you from renting the DVD. Nab the biggest TV you can, crank up the sound, and enjoy.

It’s no small challenge to take a classic Japanese cartoon series, introduce it to a new generation of fans and convert it to live action. Fortunately, filmmaking brothers Andy and Larry Wachowski — the guys behind “The Matrix” films — were up to the task. Visually, they have created one of the most astounding films to hit theaters this year. They also relate a pretty good story.

Emile Hirsch stars as Speed Racer, a young man who has dreamt of racing cars his entire life. He’s haunted by the fact that his older brother, Rex, died in a car accident, but that doesn’t prevent him from driving like a madman. It’s apparent that Speed is one of the finest drivers in the world, and that draws the attention of a schmaltzy corporate race team owner named Royalton (Roger Allam). He offers Speed a racing contract, but the young driver turns him down, leading Royalton to start a vendetta.

What follows is a smart-but-easy-flowing story that addresses corporate greed and family honor. Of course, those things take a backseat to the futuristic racecar action that drives the film. Every racing sequence is dominated by saturated primary colors, and Speed’s car careens through physically impossible stunts that make it seem as though the old-time cartoon has actually come to life.

“Speed Racer” is a near-perfect movie.

DVD special features include a tour of the movie set, a piece on the cars and racetracks, and a short about the racecar drivers.

Made of Honor
2 stars
Rated PG-13 for sexual content and language
Columbia Pictures
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

Director Paul Weiland’s latest boasts the most overused premise in the romantic comedy genre: old friends falling in love.

Sure, this happens in real-life, but it rarely happens as depicted in “Made of Honor,” a trite bit about a womanizing guy named Tom (Patrick Stewart) who finally falls for his pal Hannah (Michelle Monaghan). Trouble is, he realizes he loves her after bedding countless women and making it pretty clear that he’s not marriage material.

Still, he’s set to convince Hannah otherwise when she announces — of course — that she is engaged to a perfect guy named Colin (Kevin McKidd). And, guess what? Hannah asks Tom to be her maid of honor. Intent on breaking the engagement, Tom agrees.

If the plot sounds like the much-better “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” that’s because it is. “Made of Honor” is also like countless other “friends falling in love” flicks, and that makes it slow-moving, dull and predictable.

An audio commentary by Weiland is the only extra on DVD, but the Blu-ray disc adds deleted scenes and a couple making-of features.

88 Minutes
3 stars
Rated R for disturbing violent content, brief nudity and language
Tri Star
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

When “88 Minutes” was released in theaters, it was hammered by critics nationwide, and that makes me the odd man out. Maybe I’m getting soft, but I didn’t find it half bad. In fact, I’ll argue that it’s plenty entertaining in that “turn off your brain and enjoy” sort of way.

Al Pacino stars as Jack Gramm, a psychologist who testifies against serial killers in court, a profession that has served him well until now. On the eve of the execution of a nasty murderer named Jon Forster (Neal McDonough), he receives a call saying that he has just 88 minutes to live. As it becomes clear that the threat is serious and that Forster ordered it from behind bars, Gramm tries to discover who’s trying to kill him.

Too deep an examination of the plot — and its ridiculous complexity — will surely lead to disappointment. But folks who can simply hang on and enjoy Pacino’s performance will be rewarded with a fast-moving and enjoyable thriller. Alicia Witt, Leelee Sobieski, Amy Brenneman and William Forsythe also star.

DVD extras include a director’s commentary, a discussion with Al Pacinco and an alternate ending.

Young@Heart
3 stars
Rated PG for some mild language and thematic elements.
20th Century Fox
Available on: DVD

Director Stephen Walker’s 107-minute documentary about the Young@Heart chorus of Northampton, Mass., is inspiring, funny, touching and, sometimes, quite sad. He followed members of the chorus — all age 70 or older — through preparations for a new show including performances of Sonic Youth’s “Schizophrenia,” Cold Play’s “Fix You” and James Browns “I Feel Good.”

Although the group draws attention through the gimmick of senior citizens performing rock music, the documentary focuses on the vitality of individual members and the leadership of chorus director Bob Cilman. Audiences get a feel for the group’s rehearsal process, and they are also exposed to the real-life drama surrounding the health concerns of several members.

It’s saddening that several Young@Heart singers passed away during the making of the film, but it is stirring to see the dedication and love every member has for performing. Although it likely wasn’t his intent, Walker has crafted a piece that speaks to the power of music and its ability to bring out the best in people of all ages.

DVD extras include deleted scenes and a short feature about a Young@Heart appearance in Hollywood.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

Chuck — The Complete First Season: Offbeat comedy series about an easygoing computer geek named Chuck (Zachary Levi) who accidentally downloaded top secret information to his brain, making him a hot property for the U.S. government and its enemies. Most episodes revolve around Chuck balancing his life as a box store employee with near-daily intelligence exploits courtesy of a smoking hot spy named Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski).

Private Practice — The Complete First Season: This “Grey’s Anatomy” spinoff got its start when Dr. Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh) left Seattle Grace Hospital to set up shop in California. Don’t remember what happened? It’s all here.

Pushing Daisies — The Complete First Season: New drama based on the adventures of a pie maker who learns that he can bring the dead back to life. Only thing is, his power comes with a price.

Dirty Sexy Money — The Complete First Season: ABC drama focused on Nick George (Peter Krause), an idealistic lawyer drawn into a world of dirty deeds after he becomes the personal attorney to an ultra-rich family.

The High School Flashback Collection: Classic teen movies “The Breakfast Club,” “Weird Science” and “Sixteen Candles” packaged together in a boxed set.

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September 9, 2008 · 12:09 am

Video Verdict: New DVDs for Sept. 9

It’s a busy week on the home video front with new releases ranging from a sweeping martial arts adventure to a Tina Fey comedy.

The Forbidden Kingdom
3 stars (out of four)
Rated PG-13 for sequences of martial arts action and some violence
Lionsgate
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

The main selling point behind “Forbidden Kingdom” is that it’s the first film to feature martial arts legends Jackie Chan and Jet Li on screen together. That’s good news on its own, but there’s more to the film than this star-power gimmick.

“Kingdom” is centered on Jason Tripitikas (Michael Angarano), a teen-age American who loves martial arts films but has zero kung fu skills. That changes when he is magically transported to an alternate world where he must return a magic staff to its rightful owner. Aiding him on his journey are a drunken kung fu master (Chan), a powerful monk (Li) and an angry young woman (Yifei Liu).

These three teach Jason how to fight and guide him through a journey that is packed with high-flying combat sequences … including an impressive battle between Chan and Li. Although the movie is built around martial arts action, it’s surprisingly tame, often playing like a young adult film.

To enjoy “Forbidden Kingdom,” one must get comfortable with a story that makes no apologies for moving viewers from one fight sequence to the next. One must also accept that this is a fantasy-based tale that owes as much to “Lord of the Rings” as “Fearless.” Do those things, and martial arts nirvana awaits.

The movie is available in a single-disc version and on a two-disc special edition. Extra features vary.

Baby Mama
3 stars
Rated PG-13 for crude and sexual humor, language and a drug reference
Universal
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

When career woman Kate Holbrook (Tina Fey) decides to have a baby even though she doesn’t have a significant other, she enlists a sperm donor. Sadly, she discovers that she can’t get pregnant.

Not one to give up, Kate goes one step further and hires an earthy working-class gal named Angie (Amy Poehler) to be her surrogate mother. Everything is fine until Angie gets in a fight with her piggish boyfriend (Dax Shepard) and moves in with Kate. Suddenly, the two women realize they’re nothing alike, and it looks as though they’re in for a nine-month nightmare.

Although “Baby Mama” is a straightforward odd couple comedy that treads familiar ground, it’s worth watching because writer-director Michael McCullers delivers a host of good gags that keep things moving. Also, Fey and Poehler have excellent chemistry … even if they do allow Shepard and co-star Steve Martin to steal a number of scenes.

Extra features include deleted scenes, an alternate ending and a feature on the making of the film.

The Fall
2 1/2 stars
Rated R for some violent images
Sony
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

Tarsem Singh (“The Cell”) isn’t the sort of director who can sell a film on name alone, so it took A-list helmers David Fincher and Spike Jonze to push “The Fall” into theaters earlier this year. Fincher and Jonze also get a “presented by” credit on the DVD box, but this is still Tarsem’s film.

The elegant visuals and sweeping narrative are unlike anything Fincher or Jonze have produced, but the artistic scope of the project is consistent with their ambitions. It makes sense, then, that they would push Tarsem’s unusual passion piece.

“The Fall” relates the story of a 5-year-old girl named Alexandria (Catinca Untaru) who meets a Hollywood stuntman named Roy (Lee Pace) while both are recovering from injuries in a Los Angeles hospital. Roy was crippled when riding a horse off a bridge, but his real pain stems from the fact that his actress/girlfriend abandoned him. Alexandria, hurt herself by falling off a ladder while picking fruit with her family. The two talk everyday, and Roy tells her a fanciful story involving five bandits out to kill an evil ruler named Odius.

As the film pushes forward, Tarsem cuts between scenes of Alexandria’s and Roy’s relationship and of colorful re-enactments of the fantasy tale Roy is spinning. Soon, the two worlds intersect, particularly in the mind of the impressionable Alexandria.

Visually, Tarsem’s work is stunning, so “The Fall” is always beautiful to look at. Unfortunately, his storytelling — both in the real and fantasy worlds — lacks urgency. That means the movie bobs at a leisurely pace when it should be racing forward, dragging viewers along in anticipation.

Strong lead performances and breathtaking art direction go a long way toward making up for the movie’s flaws, but they don’t eliminate them.

DVD extras include deleted scenes, some short making-of features and two audio commentaries.

Smallville — The Complete Seventh Season
3 stars
Not rated
Warner Brothers
Available on: DVD, Blu-ray

Although “Smallville” isn’t as fresh as when it bowed seven years ago, it remains one of the most enjoyable fantasy/science fiction series on television. The show is set during Superman’s younger years — long before he donned the costume — and it explains how Clark Kent (Tom Welling) went from farm boy to hero.

Even more interesting, is the program’s treatment of Superman’s arch villain, Lex Luthor (Michael Rosenbaum), who started as a good guy but became pure evil by the end of the seventh season. Season seven also spends a good deal of time with the arrival of Supergirl (Laura Vandervoort), the introduction of the classic villain Bizarro, and relationship problems between Clark’s friend Chloe (Allison Mack) and her boyfriend, Jimmy Olsen (Aaron Ashmore).

One reason the show flagged in later seasons is that it’s treatment of Lois Lane (Erica Durance) isn’t as appealing as it’s take on other characters. Also, the love of Clark’s life, Lana Lang (Kristin Kreuk), has become increasingly dark and, oddly enough, less interesting. Still, the writing is consistently strong and the ever-present nods to Superman mythology are a lark.

DVD special features include commentary tracks on two episodes, short features on Supergirl and Jimmy Olsen, a digital comic book, and unaired scenes.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

Grey’s Anatomy — Season Four: Seventeen episodes of medical drama featuring the doctors of Seattle Grace hospital. Key happenings include Dr. Erica Hahn (Brooke Smith) taking over as head of cardiothoracics, Derek (Patrick Dempsey) and Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) struggling with difficult clinical trials, and Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh) settling in as a permanent cast member.

Cool Hand Luke — Deluxe Edition: Re-release of the classic Paul Newman film about a chain gang prisoner who refuses to bow to authority. The new DVD features a fresh, anamorphic transfer of the film.

C.S.I. Miami — The Sixth Season: More crime scenes and more investigations as Horatio Caine (David Caruso) and company solve case after case.

The Big Lebowski: New, two-disc edition of Joel and Ethan Coen’s quirky, 1998 comedy about a slacker who gets mixed up with unsavory characters through a case of mistaken identity. The DVD was produced to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the film’s release. Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore and Steve Buscemi star.

Ugly Betty — The Complete Second Season: The sophomore season of America Ferrera’s soap-opera-like dramatic comedy is spread over five discs. Ferrera plays the title character, who is not so much ugly as out of place at the ultra-chic fashion magazine office where she works.

Barbie & the Diamond Castle: Animated Barbie musical about young women who team up to defeat a selfish muse and preserve music for the world.

Medium — The Fourth Season: The continuing adventures of Allison Dubois (Patricia Arquette), a Phoenix psychic who works with the district attorney’s office to solve cases. The show, which is a hit for NBC, also stars Jake Weber, Miguel Sandoval, Sofia Vassilieva and Maria Lark.

Wings — The Seventh Season: Next to last season of the 1990s, NBC comedy about two brothers running a small airline in Massachusetts.

Seed: Director Uwe Boll (“BloodRayne”) presents the story of a serial killer who survives repeated execution attempts and — after being buried alive — seeks revenge. The DVD, which contains extreme violence and gore, is not rated.

Jon & Kate Plus Ei8ht — Seasons 1+2: Reality television show that looks at life in the large family of Jon and Kate Gosselin. The young couple is raising a set of twins and a set of sextuplets.

I Want Candy: Direct-to-video comedy about two young men who secure funding for their film by agreeing to cast a popular adult film star as their lead. Carmen Electra, Tom Riley and Tom Burke star.

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