DVD Round Up

Marvel DVD Round Up, May 2010: ‘X-Men,’ ‘Iron Man,’ ‘Wolverine’

BrianTT — Wed, 05 May 2010 14:13:22 -0400

CHICAGO – With “Iron Man 2” hitting theaters in a matter of hours, the round-up is back with a trio of superhero animated DVDs clearly timed to release with the launch of the biggest Marvel movie of the year. See “Iron Man 2” and take home whichever animated TV on DVD release suits your fancy. Or get all three.

“X-Men: Volume 5,” “Iron Man: The Complete 1994 Animated Television Series,” and “Wolverine and the X-Men: Revelation” were all released on May 4th, 2010.

“Iron Man: The Complete 1994 Animated Television Series”

Photo credit: Buena Vista Home Video

Synopsis: “From Stan Lee comes Marvel’s complete 1994 animated television series, Iron Man. Experience every thrilling moment – from the very first episode, to the final climactic battle – in this 3-disc collector’s edition. Witness the action-packed adventure from the very beginning as billionaire inventor Tony Stark dons his invincible suit of iron to battle the villainous Mandarin and the power of his ten deadly rings. With fellow super heroes Nick Fury, War Machine, Scarlet Witch, Spider Woman and Hawkeye at his side, Iron Man faces off against a band of evil foes, including Whiplash…and confronts his own demons, as well. Go behind the armor and get to know the man under the powered suit. This complete Iron Man collection is a must-have for fans of all ages!”

“Iron Man: The Complete 1994 Animated Television Series” is presented in full screen 1.33:1 with an English 2.0 Dolby Digital Audio track and runs 572 minutes. It is not rated.

The set includes no special features.

“X-Men: Volume 5”

Photo credit: Buena Vista Home Video

Synopsis: “The original tales of Marvel comic books come to life in Volume 5 of the X-men collection. Relive the action of the popular animated series in this collectible compilation of the X-men adventures. The X-men must turn to their arch-nemesis, Magneto, in an effort to save the life of Professor Xavier! Watch the action unfold in the final episode, “Graduation Day,“ and don’t miss a moment of X-men excitement in this 2-disc set, complete with 14 riveting episodes. Complete your X-men collection with this must-own final installment of this great animated series.”

“X-Men: Volume 5” is presented in full screen 1.33:1 with an English 2.0 Dolby Digital Audio track and runs 308 minutes. It is not rated.

The set includes no special features.

“Wolverine and the X-Men: Revelation”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “The world’s end arrives in eight days. Will WOLVERINE and the X-MEN discover the deadly secret to stop it? Uncover the truth in Wolverine And The X-Men: Revelation with five gripping episodes. As the X-Men face a threat lurking in their midst, ANGEL goes against his own father to save fellow mutants. But when his wings are taken from him, will he throw away everything for revenge? Next, dangerous secrets await Scott in the depths of his own mind when he attempts to rid himself of his memories of JEAN GREY. Meanwhile in the future, Xavier struggles at all costs to get information back to Wolverine, even at the risk of ROVER and MARROW’s loyalty. He must act quickly, before GAMBIT succeeds in his treacherous game of thievery. Because if he doesn’t, a power more deadly than anything the X-Men have ever faced will put the world at risk: a fiery entity known as…THE PHOENIX.”

“Wolverine and the X-Men: Revelation” is presented in widescreen 1.78:1 with an English 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio track and runs 110 minutes. It is not rated.

Special features include Audio Commentary with Craig Kyle, Greg Johnson, and Chris Yost, and a trailer gallery.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, April 2010: ‘Tenderness,’ ‘Uncertainty,’ ‘Tony,’ ‘Neowolf’

BrianTT — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:00:52 -0400

CHICAGO – It’s been awhile since the ultra-useful DVD Round-Up brought you a wave of recently released DVDs that slipped below the mainstream radar but we’re back with a very star-powered installment of your favorite column and you can now expect us to return with monthly editions. Russell Crowe and Joseph Gordon-Levitt lead the way for this revamped list of synopses, cast info, tech specs, and special features. Pick your favorites from the quartet below.

“Tony” was released on April 6th, 2010.

“Tenderness” was released on April 13th, 2010.

“Neowolf” was released on April 20th, 2010.

“Uncertainty” will be released on April 27th, 2010.

“Tenderness”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “A career-hardened detective (Oscar winner Russell Crowe) becomes obsesses with the early release of Eric, a teenaged serial killer he helped send to prison. While the detective trails the young psychopath, Eric is joined by a troubled girl who knows the predator’s darkest secrets and desires. Now the detective must race against time to prevent another murder, unaware of the painful truth hiding beneath the surface of this riveting psychological thriller.”

“Tenderness” stars Russell Crowe, Jon Foster, Sophie Traub, and Laura Dern. It was written by Emil Stern and directed by John Polson. It is rated R and runs 101 minutes. The film is presented in widescreen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track.

Special features: “Finding Tenderness: Bringing the Novel to the Screen”

“Uncertainty”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Every choice has a consequence. But what if the flip of a coin could trigger two separate but parallel destinies? Joseph Gordon-Levitt (500 Days of Summer) and Lynn Collins (Wolverine) star as Bobby and Kate, a young New York couple at a crossroads whose lives are about to take very different heads/tails directions: A visit to Brooklyn leads them to gentle discoveries about family, loss and each other, while a day in Manhattan plunges them into an urban nightmare of pursuit, suspense and murder. Olivia Thirlby (Juno) co-stars in this uniquely powerful thriller written, produced and directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, the award-winning filmmakers behind Suture, Bee Season, and The Deep End.”

“Uncertainty” stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lynn Collins, and Olivia Thirlby. It was written and directed by Scott McGehee & David Siegel. It is not rated and runs 105 minutes. The film is presented in widescreen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track.

Special features: Still Gallery, Audition Footage, Script/Scene Comparison, TV Spot, and Trailer.

“Tony”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “A week in the life of Tony, an alienated psychopath with severe social problems, an obsession for action films and a horrible moustache. Unemployed and unemployable, Tony prowls the streets, his nervous attempts to make human connections rebuffed by laughter or contempt. Occasionally he snaps, and violence is the result…

Gerard Johnson’s dark, brutal, bleakly amusing psychological thriller has already drawn favourable comparisons to John McNaughton’s seminal Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer and features a star-making lead performance from Peter Ferdinando as the title character - probably the most alarming cinematic anti-hero since Taxi Driver’s Travis Bickle.”

“Tony” stars Peter Ferdinando, Ricky Grover, Frank Boyce, Lorenzo Camporese, and Cyrus Desir. It was written by Gerard Johnson. It is not rated runs 78 minutes. The film is presented in 1.85:1 widescreen.

Special features: None.

“Neowolf”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Torn between the girl he loves and the dark side of his dreams of fame, a young musician is seduced by a touring rock band called Neowolf with a mysterious past and a hungry habit that comes with the full moon.”

“Neowolf” stars Agim Kaba, Michael Frascino, Heidi Johanningmeier, Ryan Ross, Megan Pipin, and Veronica Cartwright. It was written by Alessandro di Gaetano & Michael January and directed by Alan Smith. It is rated R and runs 88 minutes. The film is presented in widescreen with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track.

Special features: Trailers

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, Feb. 17, 2010: ‘Good Hair,’ ‘Blood Creek’

BrianTT — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:10:39 -0500

CHICAGO – HollywoodChicago.com’s regular Round-Up column returns this week with another collection of recently released DVDs that may have slid just a bit below your radar while you were busy buying Valentine’s Day cards and candy. We’re not necessarily recommending these titles, merely presenting their details for your awareness. You’re welcome.

“Blood Creek” was released on January 19th, 2010

“Wolverine and The X-Men: Fate of the Future” was released on February 2nd, 2010.

“From Mexico With Love” and “Good Hair” were released on February 16th, 2010.

“Wrong Side of Town” will be released on February 23rd, 2010.

“Blood Creek”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “In 1936, the Wollners, a German family living in Town Creek, West Virginia, are contacted by the Third Reich to host a visiting scholar. In need of money, they accept Professor Ricard Wirth into their home, unaware of the Third Reich’s practices in the occult or Wirth’s real mission, which will keep the family bound for decades to come. Now, in 2007, after mysteriously disappearing two years ago near Town Creek, Evan Marshall’s older brother Victor suddenly returns, very much alive and having escaped his captors. Evan asks no questions; at his brother’s request, he loads their rifles, packs their boat and follows Victor back to Town Creek on a mission of revenge that will test them in every possible way.”

“Blood Creek” stars Rainer Winkelvoss, Shea Wigham, Emma Booth, Dominic Purcell, Michael Fassbender, and Henry Cavill. It was written by David Kajganich and directed by Joel Schumacher. It is rated R and runs 90 minutes. The film is presented in widescreen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track.

Special features: Director’s Commentary.

“Wolverine and The X-Men: Fate of the Future”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Wolverine and the X-Men race through time to regain control of their destiny in Volume 4: Fate Of The Future. Evil attempts to rewrite the past, and the mutant heroes must prevent a perilous future in these five time-bending episodes. History repeats itself when Wolverine’s past resurfaces, forcing him to repay old debts in “Stolen Lives.” In “Code of Conduct,” Wolverine’s history returns again when the X-Men are threatened by the Silver Samurai who challenges the adamantine hero to anohter duel. In “Badlands,” Logan’s captivity helps spawn a new breed of Sentinels to terrorize the future. And before Mojo rips their friendship apart, Nightcrawler struggles to convince a brainwashed Wolverine of their lost days together in “Hunting Grounds.” Finally, in “Backlash,” when Wolverine learns that Master Mold is the same nemesis for tomorrow’s X-Men, he must protect his fellow mutants before the future becomes obsolete. ”

“Wolverine and The X-Men: Fate of the Future” runs 110 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in its original widescreen 1.78:1 aspect ration and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track.

Special features: Audio Commentary with Craig Kyle, Greg Johnson, and Chris Yost; Trailer Gallery.

“Good Hair”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Chris Rock visits beauty salons and hairstyling battles, scientific laboratories and Indian temples to explore the way hairstyles impact the activities, pocketbooks, sexual relationships, and self-esteem of the black community in this exposé of comic proportions that only he could pull off. A raucous adventure prompted by Rock’s daughter approaching him and asking, “Daddy, how come I don’t have good hair?”, Good Hair shows Chris Rock engaging in frank, funny conversations with hair-care professionals, beauty shop and barbershop patrons, and celebrities including Ice-T, Nia Long, Paul Mooney, Raven Symoné, Dr. Maya Angelou, Salt-N-Pepa, Eve and Reverend Al Sharpton – all while he struggles with the task of figuring out how to respond to his daughter’s question.”

“Good Hair” stars Chris Rock and features appearances by Nia Long, Raven-Symone, Kerry Washington, Ice-T, Al Sharpton, Maya Angelou, Salt-N-Pepa, and more. It was written by Chris Rock & Jeff Stilson and Lance Crouther and Chuck Sklar and directed by Stilson. The film runs 95 minutes and is rated PG-13. It is presented in anamorphic widescreen with its original 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track.

Special features: Audio Commentary with Chris Rock and Producer Nelson George; Theatrical Trailer.

“Wrong Side of Town”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “A former Navy Seal seeks revenge by killing a crooked nightclub owner who attacked his wife. The owner’s brother comes after him by placing a massive bounty on his head. His only hope will be to enlist an old friend in retaliation efforts. With his help he’ll stand a chance, but ultimately it will be up to him to save his family and escape his death sentence.”

“Wrong Side of Town” stars Rob Van Dam, David Bautista, Ja Rule, Nelson Frazier, and Omarion. It was written by Marquito Sanchez and David DeFalco and directed by David DiFalco. The film is presented in widescreen with its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track. It is rated R and runs 85 minutes.

Special features: “Set Life with Rob Van Dam”; Interviews with the Stars; “Stunts With Rob Van Dam”; Kali Training Video with David Bautista, Marrese Crump, and Oscar Lugo; Trailer Gallery.

This title is also available on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer and a DTS-HD Master Audio track.

“From Mexico With Love”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Hector Villa (Kuno Becker), a scrappy migrant farmworker by day and part-time prizefighter by night, struggles to reach for a better life for himself and his ailing mother. But when Hector discovers their rich rancher boss has slashed his mother’s pay, he pays the ultimate price for brawling with the boss’ thugs – a one-way ticket back over the Mexican border. Beaten up, broke and jobless, Hector joins forces with an old-school trainer and sets his sights on the rancher’s boxer son for the ultimate David-and-Goliath face-off in this adrenaline- pumping drama from stunt coordinator-turned-director Jimmy Nickerson (Rocky, Raging Bull, Fight Club).”

“From Mexico With Love” stars Kuno Becker, Steven Bauer, Stephen Lang, Alex Nesic, Danay Garcia, and Bruce McGill. It was written by Glen Hartford and Nicholas Siapkaris and directed by Jimmy Nickerson. The film is presented in anamorphic 2.35:1 and accompanied by a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. It is rated PG-13 and runs 98 minutes.

Special features: nada.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, Feb. 1, 2010: ‘B-Girl,’ ‘Wushu,’ ‘Fireball’

BrianTT — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:54:11 -0500

CHICAGO – The DVD Round-Up is back with a collection of foreign films, indie flicks, a documentary, and a Kathy Griffin stand-up special. The key word for 2010 is diversity and there’s no DVD column more embracing of the variety of titles at your local store than the Round-Up.

“Kathy Griffin: She’ll Cut a Bitch” and “You, The Living” were released on January 12th, 2010.

“Chevolution” was released on January 19th, 2010.

“B-Girl,” “Fireball,” “Import Export,” and “Wushu” were released on January 26th, 2010.

“Kathy Griffin: She’ll Cut a Bitch”

Photo credit: Shout Factory

Synopsis: “The Emmy-Nominated special comes to DVD! Two-time Emmy Award-winning and self-proclaimed “D-Lister” Kathy Griffin’s latest comedy special takes you backstage in Hollywood — from the Emmys to the Grammys and even to Cher’s Malibu mansion! Appearing before a sold-out crowd at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland, Oregon, Griffin is in top form dishing about scandalous misbehaving celebrities and her own uproarious escapades in Tinsel Town.

Star of television’s My Life on the D-List, Griffin’s sharp, revealing narratives have become legendary, and her latest special She’ll Cut a Bitch is no exception.”

“Kathy Griffin: She’ll Cut a Bitch” was written and performed by Kathy Griffin. The special runs 60 minutes and is not rated.

Special features include “Never-Before-Seen Bonus Bits: Unaired Stand-Up From the Special”.

“Chevolution”

Photo credit: Magnolia

Synopsis: “In 1960, Cuban photographer Alberto “Korda” Diaz snapped a photo of Ernesto “Che” Guevara. Eight years later, the image exploded throughout Europe and Latin America, where it became a symbol of protest and dissent. Today, the photograph remains of the of the most dominant icons of the twentieth century. Chevolution is a film about a single photograph, and how this portrait with its enigmatic gaze became a symbol of countless visions for change.”

“Chevolution” was written by Sylvia Stevens & Trisha Ziff and directed by Ziff & Luis Lopez. The film runs 90 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in its original widescreen 1.78:1 aspect ration and accompanied by an English Dolby 5.1 track.

Special features include the film’s trailer.

“You, The Living”

Photo credit: Palisades Tartan Video

Synopsis: “You, The Living is made up of 50 brilliantly staged and often darkly comic vignettes that illustrate the truth, humor, poetry and drama of human existence. Few filmmakers ever develop a style as distinctive as director Roy Andersson, a master of composing elaborate set pieces and one of the most gifted artists working in film today. Through his beautifully shot sketches he suggests that we should treasure the life we have, and has us laughing as he shows us that even when we feel sad, alone and that no one understands us, that we all understand perfectly.”

“You, The Living” stars Jessika Lundberg, Elisabet Helander, Bjorn Englund, Leif Larsson, Ollie Olson, Kemal Sener, Hakan Angser, Birgitta Persson, and Gunnar Ivahsson. It was written and directed by Roy Andersson. The film runs 95 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in anamorphic widescreen with its original 1.66:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Dolby Surround 5.1 and DTS 5.1 audio track. It is not rated and runs 95 minutes.

Special features include Director Roy Andersson Commentary, “Sample of Sets” Featurette, Excerpts From Earlier Films By Roy Andersson, 15 Minute Preview of a Documentary on Studio 24 and the Making of “You, The Living, and an Exclusive Featurette” - “Roy Andersson in New York, Sept. 2009”.

“B-Girl”

Photo credit: Screen Media Films

Synopsis: “After a crippling, back alley assault, a show-stopping breakdancer, Angel (Julie ‘Jules’ Ulrich), switches coasts and starts a new life. In an effort to gain back her rep, she must prove herself, battling the West coast’s top street talents. B-Girlculminates in a high-flying, head-spinning breakdance showdown, featuring some of film’s finest hip-hop performers.”

“B-Girl” stars Jules Ulrich, Missy Yager, Drew Sidora, Aimee Garcia, James Martinez, Richard Yniguez, Jenny Gago, and Wesley Jonathan. It was written and directed by Emily Dell. The film is presented in widescreen and accompanied by a 5.1 Surround Sound track. It is rated PG-13 and runs 88 minutes.

Special features include bloopers, dance auditions, dancer profiles, and “The Battle”.

“Import Export”

Photo credit: Palisades Tartan Video

Synopsis: “Olga and Paul. Both are looking for work, a new beginning, an existence, life: Olga, who comes from the Eastern part of Europe, where unremitting poverty is the order of the day. Paul, who comes from the Western part, where unemployment means not hunger, but a crisis of meaning and sense of uselessness. Both are struggling to believe in themselves, to find a meaning in life. In both the West and East. Both travel to a new country, and thus into its depths. Import Export deals with sex and death, living and dying, winners and losers, power and helplessness, and how to give the teeth of a stuffed fox a professional cleaning job.”

“Import Export” stars Paul Hoffman, Michael Thomas, Ekateryna Rak, Maria Hofstiter, and George Friedrich. It was written by Ulrich Seidl & Veronika Franz and directed by Seidl. The film is presented in anamorphic 1.66:1 and accompanied by a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. It is not rated and runs 135 minutes.

Special features include Interview with Director Ulrich Seidl and Interview with Cinematographer Ed Lachman.

“Fireball”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Tai is discharged from jail and returns home only to find his brother in a coma. Determined to find the truth, Tai assumes his brother Tan’s identity, which ultimately leads him to an underground ultra-violent game based on Muay Thai and Basketball principles, but hosted by criminal drug lords. On a mission to find the man that hospitalized his brother, Tai risks his life to avenge his brother on the only court where murder is legal. No rules, no mercy, and only the strongest will survive. ”

“Fireball” stars Preeti Barameeanat, Khanutra Chuchuaysuwan, Kumpanat Oungsoongnern, Phutharit Prombandal, and Arucha Tosawat. It was written by Thanakorn Pongsuwan, Kiat Sansanandana, Taweewat Wantha, and Uncle and directed by Pongsuwan. The film is presented in widescreen 1.78:1 and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio track. It is rated R and runs 97 minutes.

Special features include Behind the Scenes and Trailer Gallery.

“Wushu”

Photo credit: Lionsgate Home Video

Synopsis: “Upon arrival to an elite martial arts conservatory, a group of young boys swear an allegiance to each other and form a gang. A decade later at graduation, they unexpectedly cross paths with an evil martial arts master and foil his kidnapping plan. Now, they must put their combat skills to the test in order to defeat this enemy and save their brotherhood.”

“Wushu” stars Sammo Hung, Liu Fengchao, Wang Wenjie, Wang Fei, Liu Yongchen, and Wang Yachao. It was written by Lao Ho-Leung and Dennis Chan and directed by Anthony Szeto. The film is presented in widescreen 2.35:1 and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Digital and Mandarin 5.1 Dolby Digital track. It is rated PG-13 and runs 98 minutes.

Special features include Behind the Scenes, “Wushu” World Premiere in Cannes Featuring Jackie Chan, and Trailer Gallery.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, Dec. 31, 2009: ‘Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,’ ‘Sita Sings the Blues’

BrianTT — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 11:56:58 -0500

CHICAGO – The DVD Round-Up has traveled the globe this week to bring you a diverse slate of under-the-radar titles received in the HollywoodChicago.com offices this holiday season. With so many major releases this time of year, it’s hard to cover everything, but we wanted to make sure you knew these were out there in case you have a gift card burning a hole in your pocket.

One quick note: We don’t usually inject opinion into the DVD Round-Up. It’s a recurring column merely designed for informational purposes regarding some lower profile titles new on shelves. We’d like to make a rare exception for “Sita Sings the Blues,” a simply wonderful animated film that we only wish we had more time to spotlight but that we wanted to make sure you knew was available before the end of the year. Don’t just go rent it. Buy it. (“Gozu” kind of rules too.)

“Gozu: Collector’s Edition” and “This Beautiful City” was released on December 8th, 2009.

“Sita Sings the Blues” was released on December 15th, 2009.

“Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” was released on December 22nd, 2009.

“Sita Sings the Blues”

Photo credit: FilmKaravan

Synopsis: “Sita is a Hindu goddess, the leading lady of India ’s epic the Ramayana and a dutiful wife who follows her husband Rama on a 14 year exile to a forest, only to be kidnapped by an evil king from Sri Lanka. Despite remaining faithful to her husband, Sita is put through many tests. Nina (the filmmaker Nina Paley herself) is an artist who finds parallels in Sita’s life when her husband – in India on a work project - decides to break up their marriage and dump her via email. Three hilarious Indonesian shadow puppets with Indian accents – linking the popularity of the Ramayana from India all the way to the Far East - narrate both the ancient tragedy and modern comedy in this beautifully animated interpretation of the epic.

In her first feature length film, Paley juxtaposes multiple narrative and visual styles to create a highly entertaining yet moving vision of the Ramayana. Musical numbers choreographed to the 1920’s jazz vocals of Annette Hanshaw feature a cast of hundreds: flying monkeys, evil monsters, gods, goddesses, warriors, sages, and winged eyeballs. A tale of truth, justice and a woman’s cry for equal treatment. Sita Sings The Blues earns its tagline as “The Greatest Break-Up Story Ever Told.””

“Sita Sings the Blues” was directed, written, produced, designed, and animated by Nina Paley. The film runs 82 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in its original widescreen aspect ratio.

Special features include director’s commentary and interview, the bonus short “Fetch!,” and more

“Gozu: Collector’s Edition”

Photo credit: Cinema Epoch

Synopsis: “Yakuza underling Minami (Hideki Sone) has a problem. He’s been ordered by the Boss (Renji Ishibashi) to dispose of his “brother” and crime family mentor Ozaki (Sho Aikawa), and he’s having a hard time completing the mission. Things grow even more difficult when the target disappears from the backseat of his convertible. In a nearby isolated town, Minami soon learns that help will be next to impossible to find. The local inn is run by a degenerate brother and sister team, while the local crew provides him with a subordinate named Nose (Shohei Hino) whose motives are unclear at best. When he finally discovers what happened to Ozaki, Minami is faced with a new dilemma. Among all the nightmare elements, his loyalty is put to the test - along with his sanity.”

“Gozu” stars Kimika Yoshino, Shohei Hino, Sho Aikawa, Harumi Sone, and Hideki Sone. It was written by Sakichi Sato and directed by Takashi Miike. The film runs 129 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in 1.85:1 widescreen and accompanied by a Dolby Digital Japanese Stereo track.

Special features include Behind-The-Scenes Footage, Essay by Film Critic Bill Gibron (Pop Matters), Takashi Miike interview featuring directors Guillermo Del Toro and Eli Roth, Production Featurette, Audio Commentary with film critics Andy Klein and Wade Major, Still Gallery, Trailer, and Title Theme Song.

“Beyond a Reasonable Doubt”

Photo credit: Starz/Anchor Bay

Synopsis: “High profile lawyer, Mark Hunter (Academy Award winner Michael Douglas) has an impeccable record putting criminals behind bars. But when ambitious rookie journalist, C.J. Nicholas (Jesse Metcalfe) begins investigating Hunter for tampering with evidence to secure his convictions, the district attorney’s perfect record if up for scrutiny. Commencing a risky game of cat and mouse with Hunter, C.J. frames himself as a murder suspect to catch the corrupt D.A. in the act. Romantically involved with C.J., but unaware of his assignment, Assistant D.A. Ella Crystal (Amber Tamblyn) becomes caught between her boss’ political ambitions and C.J’s dangerous expose. As mounting evidence stacks up against both men, Ella’s own life, becomes threatened when she discovers incriminating proof that puts the fate of both C.J.’s innocence and Hunter’s reputation in her hands.”

“Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” stars Jesse Metcalfe, Amber Tamblyn, Michael Douglas, Joel David Moore, and Orlando Jones. It was written and directed by Peter Hyams. The film runs 105 minutes and is rated PG-13. It is presented in anamorphic widescreen with its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Dolby Surround 5.1 audio track.

Special features include Audio Commentary with Writer/Cinematographer/Director Peter Hyams and Actor Jesse Metcalfe, “The Whole Truth: The Making of Beyond a Reasonable Doubt,” and “Criminal Forensics - The Burden of Proof”.

“This Beautiful City”

Photo credit: E1

Synopsis: “When a woman plummets from her condo balcony in Toronto’s downtown westside, five turbulent lives collide, releasing spurts and geysers of long suppressed sexuality and aggression.”

“This Beautiful City” stars Kristin Booth, Caroline Cave, Stuart Hughes, Noam Jenkins, and Aaron Poole. It was written and directed by Ed Gass-Donnelly. The film is presented in standard 1.33:1 and accompanied by a stereo track. It is not rated and runs 87 minutes.

Special features include Audio Commentary, Deleted Scenes, Still Gallery, and Trailers.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com

DVD Round Up, Nov. 19, 2009: ‘Spread,’ ‘Open Road,’ ‘Train’

BrianTT — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:17:10 -0500

CHICAGO – The DVD Round-Up is back! Did you miss us? HollywoodChicago.com’s intermittent column designed to serve as a safety net for releases that may otherwise fall without notice is back with a motley crew of titles that have nearly nothing in common. Classic TV, drama, horror, copious sex, and Justin Timberlake. You make the connections.

“The Fugitive: Season Three, Volume One” was released on October 27th, 2009

“The Dead” was released on November 3rd, 2009.

“Spread” was released on November 10th, 2009.

“The Canyon,” “Open Road” and “Train” were released on November 17th, 2009

“The Fugitive: Season Three, Volume One”

Photo credit: Paramount

Synopsis: “The hit series The Fugitive is back, featuring the first 15 Season Three episodes, on DVD for the first time ever! Golden Globe Award winner David Janssen expertly portrays Dr. Richard Kimble, the pediatrician falsely accused of killing his wife, who needs to prove his innocence by leading the obsessive Lt. Philip Gerard (Barry Morse) to the murderous one-armed man. His life in constant danger, Kimble has by now honed his skills in deception in order to evade capture - a new town, a dead-end job, a different identity. Yet he continues to live in a nightmare world that he can never escape.

Relive all the thrills and chills of The Fugitive in the season that won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Dramatic Series.”

“The Fugitive” stars David Janssen, William Conrad, and Barry Morse. The show is presented in its original 4:3 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Dolby Digital mono track. It is not rated and runs 771 minutes on four discs.

The set includes no special features.

“The Dead”

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Synopsis: “In his final achievement, legendary director John Huston brings the magic of James Joyce to the screen with this evocative drama starring his daughter, Anjelica Huston. The Dead takes place in early 20th century Dublin at a vibrant holiday feast. Gretta and Gabriel, a young couple, seem to share a comfortable life. But that night, a familiar voice recalls poignant memories and Gabriel learns of his wife’s unforgotten love.”

“The Dead” stars Anjelica Huston, Donal McCann, Helena Carroll, Cathleen Delany, Rachael Dowling, Ingrid Craigie, Dan O’Herlihy, Marie Kean, Donal Donnelly, Sean McClory, and Frank Patterson. It was written by Tony Huston and directed by John Huston. The film is presented in its original 1.78:1 widescreen format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital 2.0 audio track. The film runs 73 minutes and is rated PG.

Sadly, the film includes no special features and it’s equally shameful that Huston’s last film is not available on Blu-Ray.

“Spread”

Photo credit: Anchor Bay

Synopsis: “Spread is a look at the trails and tribulations of sleeping your way to a life of privilege in L.A. Nikki (Ashton Kutcher) is a fun-loving, freeloading hipster who understands his greatest assets are his looks and sexual prowess. His latest conquest, Samantha (Anne Heche), a stunning middle-aged lawyer, gives Nikki more than he’s ever had before. But when Heather (Margarita Levieva), a gorgeous waitress playing the same game, catches his eye their lifestyles force a choice between love and money. Nikki has to decide if he can live on his own once and for all in the hopes of finding something real.”

“Spread” stars Ashton Kutcher, Anne Heche, Rachel Blanchard, Marie Conchita Alonso, Margarita Levieva, and Sebastian Stan. It was written by Jason Dean Hall and directed by David Mackenzie. The film is presented in its original 2.40:1 widescreen format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track. It runs 97 minutes and is rated R.

Special features include “Living the Dream - The Making of Spread,” “The World According to Nikki,” “Behind-the-Scenes with Ashton Kutcher,” and an audio commentary with actor/producer Ashton Kutcher and actors Anne Heche and Margarita Levieva.

“The Canyon”

Photo credit: Magnolia

Synopsis: “Honeymooners, Nick and Lori head off to the Grand Canyon for adventure and time alone together. Upon arriving, they hire Henry as their guide, who seems to have his own idea about the outdoor excursion. When tragedy strikes, the newlyweds must fend for themselves. Discovering they are prey being hunted by something or someone, they desperately fight for survival to escape the canyon alive.”

“The Canyon” stars Yvonne Strahovski, Will Patton, and Eion Bailey. It was written by Steve Allrich and directed by Richard Harrah. The film is presented in its original widescreen 2.40:1 format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track. It runs 102 minutes and is rated R.

Special features include “Discovering The Canyon,” Behind-the-Scenes Montage, deleted scenes, and Yvonne Strahovski casting session.

“Open Road”

Photo credit: Anchor Bay

Synopsis: “In this heartwarming comedy, minor leaguer Carlton Garrett (Justin Timberlake) must track down his estranged father, legendary pro-athlete Kyle Garrett (Jeff Bridges), when Carlton’s mother (May Steenburgen) becomes sick. Knowing his father’s likelihood to disappoint, Carlton enlists his ex-girlfriend Lucy (Kate Mara) for emotional support.

Years of miscommunication, frustration and comically awkward attempts at bonding come to a head as the mismatched trio make their way home from Ohio back to Houston to reunite their family.”

“Open Road” stars Jeff Bridges, Justin Timberlake, Kate Mara, Harry Dean Stanton, Lyle Lovett, and Mary Steenburgen. It was written and directed by Michael Meredith. It is presented in both 2.35:1 widescreen and 1.33:1 full frame and accompanied by a Dolby Surround 5.1 audio track. The film runs 90 minutes and is rated PG-13.

Special features include “Behind the Scenes of The Open Road” and an audio commentary featuring writer/director Michael Meredith and actor Jeff Bridges.

“Train”

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Synopsis: “Touring Eastern Europe with her college wrestling team, Alex (Thora Birch) attends a debauched late-night party that causes Alex and several teammates to miss their train to Odessa. Her coach is furious, but a mysterious woman offers the coach and wrestlers a ride on an alternative train. The coach agrees, and the athletes, exhausted and hung over, gratefully climb aboard. But the train harbors a deadly secret, and for Alex and her fellow passengers, a blood-soaked nightmare is just beginning.”

“Train” stars Thora Birch, Todd Jensen, and Gideon Emery. It was written and directed by Gideon Raff. The film is presented in 1.78:1 widescreen and accompanied by a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track. The film runs 94 minutes and is rated R.

Special features include a behind-the-scenes featurette.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, Oct. 30, 2009: ‘Sauna,’ ‘The Tournament,’ ‘The Butcher’

BrianTT — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 -0400

CHICAGO – Many editions of the DVD Round-Up have featured a different genre and focus for each title within it. This week seems a little more thematically linked as we have a trio of foreign horror films and a few more independent films than usual. Of course, there has to a holiday comedy to spice things up.

Consider this column informational with synopsis, tech specs, and special features info for titles that might go otherwise unnoticed, but if you’re looking for more critical opinion, we covered “Sauna” when it played at the EU Film Fest, “Medicine For Melancholy” when it was available on IFC Direct, and “Nothing Like the Holidays” when it played in theaters.

“P” and “The Tournament” were released on October 20th, 2009

“The Butcher,” “Medicine For Melancholy,” “Nothing Like the Holidays,” and “Sauna” were released on October 27th, 2009

“Nothing Like the Holidays”

Photo credit: Anchor Bay

Synopsis: “John Leguizamo (Ice Age, Moulin Rouge!), Freddy Rodriguez (Six Feet Under, Bobby), Debra Messing (Will & Grace, The Starter Wife), and Alfred Molina (The Pink Panther 2) lead a hilarious ensemble cast in this humorous and heartwarming holiday story that is “laugh-out-loud-funny and downright touching.” (MoviePictureFilm.com)

It’s Christmastime in Chicago, and the far-flung members of the Rodriguez family are converging at their parents’ house to celebrate the season. During the course of this eventful week, traditions will be celebrated, secrets revealed, old resentments forgotten, familial bonds re-affirmed and the healing power of laughter will work its magic. Nothing Like The Holidays is a “heartfelt” (Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times) gift for the whole family.”

“Nothing Like the Holidays” stars John Leguizamo, Freddy Rodriguez, Debra Messing, Alfred Molina, Luis Guzman, Melonie Diaz, Vanessa Ferlito, Jay Hernandez, and Elizabeth Pena. It was written by Alison Swan and Rick Najeira and directed by Alfredo de Villa. The film runs 98 minutes and is rated PG-13. It is presented in its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Dolby Surround 5.1 audio track.

Special features include “Nothing Like a Family: Cast Reunion,” Audio Commentary by Actor/Producer Freddy Rodriguez, Director Alfredo de Villa, and Producer Robert Teitel, Bloopers, and Theatrical Trailer.

“The Tournament”

Photo credit: The Weinstein Company

Synopsis: “Every seven years, thirty of the world’s most deadly assassins face off against one another for an outrageous cash prize. There’s only one rule: kill or die. As dozens of wealthy gamblers watch via closed-circuit TV, a city is overrun by brutal assassins - all aiming to be the last one standing. Starring Ving Rhames (Mission Impossible films), Kelly Hu (X2: X-Men United) and Robert Carlyle (Stargate: Universe), The Tournament is an explosive, action-loaded thriller where the winner takes all”

“The Tournament” stars Ving Rhames, Robert Carlyle, and Kelly Hu. It was written by Gary Young, Jonathan Frank, & Nick Rowntree and directed by Scott Mann. The film runs 95 minutes and is rated R. It is presented in a matted widescreen transfer and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track.

Special features include…nothing.

“Medicine For Melancholy”

Photo credit: IFC Films

Synopsis: “Wyatt Cenac (of The Daily Show) and Tracey Heggins star in this love story about two African-American twenty-somethings, their one-night stand, and a revealing day-after in rapidly gentrifying San Francisco - a city with the smallest proportional black population of any other major American city. In his internationally acclaimed and award-winning debut feature, writer/director Barry Jenkins creates a tender yet resonant tale of sex, race, bicycles and modern urban life that became one of the most significant hits of the festival season and remains perhaps the most talked-about independent film of the year.”

“Medicine For Melancholy” stars Wyatt Cenac and Tracey Heggins. It was written and directed by Barry Jenkins. The film runs 88 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in an enhanced widescreen transfer and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track.

Special features include the trailer and “Director’s Notes: An In-Depth Interview with Barry Jenkins at the London Film Festival”.

“Sauna”

Photo credit: IFC Films

Synopsis: “A chilling horror film, Sauna explores the space between Christianity and paganism. The year 1595 - a long and brutal war is finally over. Brothers Knut and Erik - who are part of a commission marking the border between Finland and Russia - commit a terrible sin as they leave a young girl to die a horrible death. As the commission crosses the uncharted swamp, the girl returns to haunt them. Weary men find solace from the nameless village and find a sauna - the sauna where all sins are washed away. Seeking forgiveness the brothers step in…”

“Sauna” stars Ville Vertanen, Tommi Eronen, and Viktor Klimenko. It was written by Iiro Kuttner and directed by AJ Annila. The film runs 84 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in a 2.35:1 widescreen transfer and accompanied by a Finnish/Russian Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track.

Special features include the film’s trailer.

“P”

Photo credit: Palisades Tartan

Synopsis: “While growing up in rural Thailand, a young orphan girl, Dau, is taught magic by her grandmother. But when her grandmother falls sick, Dau is lured to Bangkok to find work so that she can buy medicine. She finds herself working in a go-go bar, and her journey from naïveté to maturity is swift. She uses the magical skills her grandmother taught her to her advantage, but in doing so makes enemies within the bar. As her magic gets darker, and the consequences increasingly horrific, she gradually loses control, and something evil takes over. ”

“P” was written and directed by Paul Spurrier. The movie runs 110 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in anamorphic widescreen and accompanied by a Thai Dolby Digital Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Directors Audio Commentary, “Behind the Scenes,” “Soi Cowboy Go-Go Bars” Featurette, Rawang Music Video, Production Photos, and Original Theatrical Trailer.

“The Butcher”

Photo credit: Palisades Tartan

Synopsis: “Told entirely through two POV video cameras, The Butcher throws you into the middle of chaos and death: a handful of people have been abducted and lie bloodied and bound on the floor of a rotting slaughterhouse. Nearby, a team of snuff film producers are discussing their gruesome handiwork: torturing their captives to death, one by one.”

“The Butcher” was written and directed by Kim Jinwon. The movie runs 75 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in anamorphic widescreen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Korean Dolby Digital Stereo 2.0 track.

Special features include Alternative Ending, Behind the Scenes Photos, Storyboard Sketches, and the Original Theatrical Trailer.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, Oct. 20, 2009: ‘Medium,’ ‘Princess,’ ‘Top Chef’

BrianTT — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:06:23 -0400

CHICAGO – Over the course of dozens of editions of HollywoodChicago.com’s DVD Round-Up column, we have brought our readers more than a few collections that possessed a remarkable variety of genres in one piece, but few match this week’s column, a quartet of titles that include supernatural drama, reality television, foreign animation, and classic fantasy.

It would be harder to say what these titles have in common than to point out their remarkable differences. All they really share is a launch on DVD around the same time. We truly have something for everyone this week. Synopsis, cast, technical details, and special features follow. Pick your favorite…

“Princess” was released on September 29th, 2009.

“The Gate” and “Medium: Season Five” were released on October 6th, 2009.

“Top Chef: Season Five” was released on October 20th, 2009.

“The Gate”

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Synopsis: “After an old tree is removed from the ground, three young children accidentally release a horde of nasty, pint-sized demons from the hole in a suburban backyard. What follows is a classic battle between good and evil as the three kids struggle to overcome a nightmarish hell that is literally taking over the Earth.”

“The Gate” stars Stephen Dorff, Louis Tripp, and Christa Denton. It was written by Michael Nankin and directed by Tibor Takacs. The movie runs 85 minutes. It is presented in its original 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 2.0 Dolby Digital Audio track.

Special features include Audio Commentary with the Filmmakers, All New Cast and Crew Interviews Including Writer Michael Nankin and Special Effects Creators Randall William Cook and Craig Reardon, and the Theatrical Trailer.

“Medium: The Fifth Season”

Photo credit: Paramount

Synopsis: “Patricia Arquette returns as Allison Dubois, the psychic mom who tries to balance her challenging career with her family life at home. This season, a sense of order is restored when Allison return to work with D.A. Manuel Devalos (Miguel Sandoval) and detective Lee Scanlon (David Cubitt). Plus, her husband Joe (Jake Weber) sets up his own company, funded by a multimillionaire.

But it’s Allison’s daughter Ariel (Sofia Vassilieva) - more than her younger sister Bridgette (Maria Lark) - who has trouble accepting the gift she inherited from her mother. This season, unsetting visions about school and boys trouble this psychic teen. In this 5-disc set of Medium: The Fifth Season - which includes all 18 episodes - Allison’s life at home can be just as baffling as any police case.”

“Medium” stars Patricia Arquette, Jake Weber, Sofia Vassilieva, Maria Lark, Miguel Sandoval, and David Cubitt. It was created by Glenn Gordon Caron. The show runs 809 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in its original 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track.

Special features include “The Making of Medium: Season 5,” “Script to Screen: Apocalypse…Now?,” “JAck and Patricia Q & A,” and “Curious Maria”.

“Princess”

Photo credit: Palisades Tartan

Synopsis: “The 32-year-old clergyman August returns home from years of missionary work after hearing about the death of his sister Christina, who - after going from greatness to the gutter as the famous porn star The Princess - has finally died of drug abuse. She has left her five-year-old daughter Mia, with a prostitute. August visits the brothel to bring Mia home with him and becomes her guardian. Burdened by sorrow, guilt and unspeakable rage, August goes on a rampage to avenge his sister’s death and brings her small daughter with him. The mission escalates into a brutal and violent rout as August attempts desperately to protect the only thing he holds dear - namely Mia - forcing him to make a fateful decision.”

“Princess” stars Henrik Ibsen, Ida Dwinger, Jens Arentzen, Jiming Cai, Liv Corfixen. It was written by Anders Morgenthaler & Mette Heeno and directed by Morgenthaler. The film runs 90 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in its original widescreen 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Danish Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track.

Special features include just the original theatrical trailer.

“Top Chef: New York (Season Five)”

Photo credit: A&E

Synopsis: “The world-class culinary competition only gets fiercer in TOP CHEF: NEW YORK—the No. 1 food show on cable—as 17 new cheftestants head to the Big Apple to test their skills and compete for culinary stardom. Featuring some of the biggest names in food and entertainment, the fifth season of this Emmy®-award winning series welcomes newbie Toby Young to the judges’ table alongside host Padma Lakshmi, head judge and celebrity chef Tom Colicchio, and Gail Simmons. In the most challenging season yet, the cheftestants battle to prove they have what it takes to be crowned the next Top Chef.”

“Top Chef: New York (Season Five)” stars Padma Lakshmi, Tom Colicchio, Gail Simmons, Toby Young, and guest judges include Martha Stewart, The Foo Fighters, Jean-Georges, Rocco DiSpirito, and Eric Ripert. The show run 694 minutes and is not rated.

Special features include an exclusive cookbook, never-before-aired stew room footage, extended interviews, a cooking demonstration, and a PC game demo.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

TV on DVD Round Up, Oct. 8, 2009: ‘Primeval,’ ‘Life on Mars,’ ‘Mister Ed’

BrianTT — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:16:31 -0400

CHICAGO – The Round-Up returns with a special TV on DVD edition of our regular, informational column. Why is it special? Because this is the most diverse collection of TV that the Round-Up staff has ever seen. From classics like “Mister Ed” to recent shows like “Life on Mars,” this edition truly has something for everyone. And something remarkable for “Spongebob Squarepants” fans.

“Primeval: Volume Two” was released on September 15th, 2009.

“Brotherhood: The Final Season” and “Spongebob Squarepants: The First 100 Episodes” were released on September 22nd, 2009.

“Life on Mars: The Complete Series” and “The Patty Duke Show: Season One” were released on September 29th, 2009.

“Mister Ed: Season One” was released on October 6th, 2009.

“Brotherhood: The Final Season”

Photo credit: Paramount

Synopsis: “This 2-Disc set includes all 8 dramatic final season episode of this critically acclaimed, superbly acted and explosive blue-collar drama. Will Tommy live up to his promise to leave The Hill? Or will Michael’s transgressions finally lead to their undoing? Can the Caffee family survive….or have they finally gone too far?”

“Brotherhood” stars Jason Isaacs, Jason Clarke, Annabeth Gish, Ethan Embry, Kevin Chapman, Fiona Erickson, Brian F. O’Byrne, and Fionnula Flanagan. It was created by Blake Masters. The show is presented on two discs and runs 426 minutes. It is presented in its original 16:9 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 Surround and Spanish mono track.

Sadly, there are no special features on the final season of “Brotherhood”. It’s a shame to watch a series that once showed so much potential to be a major part of the Showtime lineup go out with such a lackluster release.

“Life on Mars: The Complete Series”

Photo credit: ABC/Buena Vista

Synopsis: “Immerse yourself in the groundbreaking series that captivated fans and critics from coast to coast. With an irresistible soundtrack and one of the most celebrated casts on television, including Jason O’Mara, Michael Imperioli, Gretchen Mol and Harvey Keitel, Life On Mars is smart, suspenseful drama with a finish that will blow you away. “It’s one of those endings I believe will make you watch the series again,” says Executive Producer Josh Appelbaum.

There’s a fine line between delusion and reality. NYPD detective Sam Tyler finds himself walking both sides of that line when he is suddenly hurtled back in time to 1973 after being struck by a car in 2008.

Journey back to the ’70s and uncover the secrets of Life On Mars. It’s a “strange and exhilarating ride” raves The New York Times. Plus, with unique and exciting bonus features — including an insider’s view of where the show’s concept began, a six-million dollar moment in which ’70s legend Lee Majors steps back into the past with the cast and crew, and much more — Life On Mars is unforgettable on DVD!”

“Life on Mars” stars Jason O’Mara, Michael Imperioli, Gretchen Mol, and Harvey Keitel. The show is presented on four discs and runs 731 minutes. It is presented in its original 1.78:1 widescreen aspect ratio and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound track.

Special features include “To Mars and Back,” “Sunrise to Sunset With Jason O’Mara,” “Flashback: Lee Majors Goes to Mars,” “Spaced Out,” Deleted Scenes and Audio Commentaries.

“Mister Ed: The Complete First Season”

Photo credit: Shout Factory

Synopsis: “Architect Wilbur Post (Alan Young, The Time Machine) and his wife Carol (Connie Hines) move into a beautiful new home complete with a barn in the backyard. When Wilbur takes a look in his new barn, he finds that the former owner left his horse behind. This horse is no ordinary horse… he can talk, but only to Wilbur, which leads to all sorts of misadventures for Wilbur and his trouble-making sidekick Mister Ed.

Premiering in 1960, Mister Ed became the first syndicated series ever to be picked up by a network when CBS adopted the show in 1961 for the remainder of its five-year run, and the program won a Golden Globe Award in 1963 as Best TV Show.”

“Mister Ed” stars Alan Young and Connie Hines. The show is presented on four discs and runs around 13 hours. It is presented in its original standard 1.33:1 black & white format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital Stereo track.

Special features include Interviews With Stars Alan Young and Connie Hines and Audio Commentary on the Pilot Episode with Alan Young and Connie Hines.

“The Patty Duke Show: The Complete First Season”

Photo credit: Shout Factory

Synopsis: “From 1963 to 1966, American audiences were treated to the weekly comic hijinks of identical twin cousins, Patty Lane, a normal American teenager living in Brooklyn Heights, New York and Cathy Lane, her Scottish cousin freshly arrived in the United States to finish her secondary schooling. Patty Duke, already an Academy Award-Winner for her role in The Miracle Worker, played the roles of both girls. The Patty Duke Show immediately won over television audiences and ran for three fun-filled seasons, totaling 104 hilarious episodes. For the first time all 36 episodes are available on DVD in this 6-disc set!”

“The Patty Duke Show” stars, well, Patty Duke. The show is presented on six discs and runs around 15 hours. It is presented in its original standard, full-frame format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital Stereo track.

Special features include “A Look Back at The Patty Duke Show” with brand-new cast interviews.

“Primeval: Volume Two”

Photo credit: BBC

Synopsis: “Monster hit Primeval roars back onto the screens for an extended third series. Still reeling from Stephen’s death and with the depth of Helen’s betrayal now revealed, Nick Cutter must fight to re-focus his embattled team. Cutter’s crew are joined by some new recruits in the form of maverick policeman Danny Quinn, sparky Egyptologist Sarah Page, and the new leader of the ARC’s security forces Captain Becker. But as the anomalies continue to present an unrelenting series of threats, the task in hand seems almost insurmountable. It’s not just deadly creatures the team has to contend with, they also face a threat to the future of not just the ARC but of mankind itself. Prepare for more explosive action as Primeval bares its newly sharpened teeth.”

“Primeval” stars Jason Flemyng, Douglas Henshall, Andrew-Lee Potts, Hannah Spearitt, Laila Rouassi, and Ben Mansfield. It is presented in its original 1.78:1 widescreen aspect ratio and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 2.0 audio track. The show is presented on three discs and runs 445 minutes.

Special features include audio commentary, “Cutter’s Odyssey,” and “Monster Competition”.

“Spongebob Squarepants: The First 100 Episodes”

Photo credit: Paramount/Nickelodeon

Synopsis: “”Are you ready….?!” for spongetacular adventure, comedy and drama? Go ahead, backstroke through ten years of hilarity with “Help Wanted,” “Spongebob’s House Party,” “Christmas Who?” and “Dunces And Dragons.” You’ll laugh and guffaw as you cruise through this massive DVD collection with SpongeBob, Patrick, Mr. Krabs, Sandy, Squidward, and, yes, even Plankton.

Whether you’re a super-absorbent fan or just beginning to soak up the wonderful world of SpongeBob, these first 100 episodes are all you need to become an expert on Bikini Bottom and our most beloved sponge. It’s all here: “Ripped Pants,” “The Camping Episode,” “Goo Goo Gas,” “Atlantis Squarepantis” and much much more!”

“Spongebob Squarepants” is presented in its original full frame format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital Stereo audio track. The show is presented on 14 discs and runs 2,233 minutes. Yes, that’s 2,233 minutes. That’s over 37 hours of “Spongebob”. Clear your schedule.

Special features include “Square Roots: The Story of Spongebob Squarepants,” Audio Commentary from the Animation Team, “Life Lessons From the Bikini Bottom,” “Help Wanted: The Seven Seas Edition,” and “Kick-Wham-Pow-Bob” Music Video”.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

DVD Round Up, Sept. 29, 2009: ‘Deadgirl,’ ‘Nightwatching,’ ‘Next Day Air’

BrianTT — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:29:19 -0400

CHICAGO – Horror, action, drama, and comedy - HollywoodChicago.com’s DVD Round-Up has it all. Where else can you read about the latest from internationally acclaimed auteur Peter Greenaway and the newest Mos Def comedy in one column? These are the recently released titles that you might have missed when you last updated your Netflix queue. See if any of them grab you enough to deal with “Very Long Wait”.

All four titles - “Deadgirl,” “Next Day Air,” “Nightwatching,” and “Triangle” - were released on September 15th, 2009.

“Deadgirl”

Photo credit: MPI

Synopsis: “Daringly original and genre-busting, Deadgirl is an odyssey into the soul of our alienated youth that takes the conventions of the horror and coming-of-age movies and turns them on their heads.

When high school misfits Rickie and JT decide to ditch school and find themselves lost in the crumbling facility of a nearby abandoned hospital, they come face-to-face with a gruesome discovery: a body of a women - stripped naked, chained to a table and covered in plastic - and soon realize she is anything but dead. Quickly the boys find themselves embarking on a twisted yet poignant journey testing the limits of their friendship, and forces both to decide just how far they’re willing to stretch their understanding of right and wrong.

Deadgirl is a new genre classic and a no-holds-barred look at the horror of growing up. Starring Shiloh Fernandez (Cadillac Records), Noah Segan (Brick), Michael Bowen (Kill Bill) and Candice Accola (Juno).”

“Deadgirl” stars Shiloh Fernandez, Noah Segan, Candice Accola, and Michael Bowen. It was written by Trent Haaga and directed by Marcel Sarmiento and Gadi Harel. It is presented in 2.35:1 widescreen and accompanied by an English 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound track. The film is not rated and runs 101 minutes.

Special features on “Deadgirl” include Cast & Crew Commentary with Stars, Director, Writer, & More, Deleted Scenes, Behind the Scenes/Making of Featurette, Make-up Gallery, and Reversible Art.

“Next Day Air”

Photo credit: Summit

Synopsis: “A haze-brained courier (Faison) sparks off a chain of uproarious events after he mistakenly delivers a package containing some high grade product to the wrong address and into the hands of two bumbling, wannabe gangsters (Epps and Harris). But these two fools have no clue that their neighbors down the hall - the REAL gangster and his feisty girlfriend - are connected to the Mexican mob and will do whatever it takes to recover their package.”

“Next Day Air” stars Donald Faison, Mike Epps, Wood Harris, Omari Hardwick, Darius McCrary, Lauren London, and Mos Def. The film was written by Blair “Butta” Cobbs and directed by Benny Boom. It is presented in 1.78:1 widescreen and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 5.1 track. The film is rated R and runs 84 minutes.

Special features includes a Director’s Commentary and Outtakes.

“Nightwatching”

Photo credit: E1

Synopsis: “While painting a group portrait of the Amsterdam Musketeer Militia, the renowned Dutch artist Rembrandt (Martin Freeman) discovers a murder plot involving his subjects. Determined to expose the conspiracy, Rembrandt builds his accusation in the form of his painting - “The Night Watch” - a decision which costs him everything.”

“Nightwatching” stars Martin Freeman, Emily Holmes, Jodhi May, Eva Birthistle, Toby Jones, and Natalie Press. It was written and directed by Peter Greenaway. It is presented in 16x9 widescreen and accompanied by an English 5.1 Surround Sound track. The film is rated R and runs 135 minutes.

Special features include the feature-length documentary “Rembrandt’s J’Accuse” in which director Peter Greenaway explores the theories and conspiracies behind Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” in order to solve the puzzle of one of the art world’s greatest mysteries, Interviews with Peter Greenaway, Martin Freeman, Eva Birthistle and Jodhi May.

“Triangle”

Photo credit: Magnolia

Synopsis: “Three legends of Hong Kong cinema - Tsui Hark, Ringo Lam and Johnnie To - join forces to deliver this ingenious and thrilling crime caper, with each director lending his own distinct take on one part of the story.

Three drinking buddies, Sam, Fai and Mok, are struggling to make ends meet, when one night a mysterious old man appears and offers them a unique financial opportunity. He claims that buried beneath a high-security government building, lies an ancient treasure of great wealth. In agreement, the three men set off to commit the heist, but what they find puts their honor and friendship to the ultimate test.”

“Triangle” stars Louis Koo, Simon Yam, Sun Hong Lei, Lam Ka Tung, Kelly Lin, Yao Yung, and Lam Suet. It was written by Half Leisure, Kenny Kan, Sharon Chung, Yau Nai Hoi, Au Kin Yee, and Yip Tin Shing, and directed by Tsui Hark, Ringo Lam, and Johnnie To. It is presented in 2.35:1 widescreen and accompanied by a Cantonese and English Dub 5.1 Dolby Surround track. The film is rated R and runs 92 minutes.

Special features include Behind the Scenes and “Making of Triangle”.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com