Nancy Allen

CHICAGO – At first glance, Brian De Palma’s “Dressed to Kill” and Sam Peckinpah’s “Straw Dogs” may seem to have little in common beyond a studio and a need to be on Blu-ray. It’s common for that to the be the ONLY link (such as when “Scary Movie 2” and “Trainspotting” hit the format next week…come back for coverage). But these two actually have more in common than just a company and a spiffy new transfer. They’re a pair of controversial thrillers from two of the most interesting directors of their era. And with the remake of “Straw Dogs” about to open on Friday, perhaps it’s time we revisit them.

CHICAGO – When Brian De Palma was at his peak in the ’70s and ’80s, he was simply one of the best living directors. Some wanted to write him off as nothing more than an Alfred Hitchcock wannabe, but that was a criticism that I never understood.

CHICAGO – Movie collectors can be gluttons for punishment. We strive to have complete collections of certain filmmakers or film franchises, even if we know better when it comes to actual quality. Such is the case with those of us excited that the “Robocop Trilogy” is now available on Blu-ray, given the fact that the first movie is an absolute classic while the two sequels are perfect examples of what NOT to do with a franchise.