The Alphabet Killer
(2008) Eliza Dushku, Cary Elwes, Michael Ironside, Bill Moseley, Carl Lumbly, Timothy Hutton. True story about the murders -- from 1970 to 1973 -- of three girls in and around Rochester, New York, whose bodies were dumped in neighboring villages that bore the same first initial as their names. All three victims' first and last names also had matching initials. Despite questioning more than 800 suspects and the combined police resources of several communities, the case remains unsolved to this day. Extras: Commentary with director Rob Schmidt and producer Isen Robbins, commentary with writer-producer-actor Tom Malloy, "A to Z: The Making of The Alphabet Killer," alternate scene. (Anchor Bay).
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Babylon A.D.
(2008) Dir.: Mathieu Kassovitz; Vin Diesel, Gerard Depardieu, Michelle Yeoh, Charlotte Rampling, Mark Strong, Radek Bruna, Melanie Thierry, Lambert Wilson. Available as a single-disc DVD with the theatrical and unrated extended cut, a special edition two-disc set with a digital copy, and a Blu-ray Disc with a digital copy. Extras: Single-disc: "Babylon Babies" novel-to-screen featurette, " Arctic Escape" inside look at the snow mobile chase. The special edition adds: "Fit for the Screen" martial arts featurette, "Flight of the Hummers" featurette, "Genesis of Aurora" graphic novel prequel to "Babylon A.D.," still gallery. Blu-ray adds 17 Interactive "Scene Evolutions" in BonusVIEW Mode. (Fox).
Bangkok Dangerous
(2008) Directors: Oxide Pang Chun, Danny Pang; Nicolas Cage, Shahkrit Yamnarm, Charlie Yeung, Panward Hemmanee, Nirattisai Kaljaruek, Dom Hetrakul. Available on Blu-ray Disc. (Lionsgate).
Barney: Once Upon a Dino Tale
Barney and friends enter an enchanted world of fairy tales, including "Alice in Wonderland," "The Fisherman and His Wife," "Cinderella," more; $14.98. Extras: Sing-along jukebox with 13 songs. (HIT Entertainment/Lionsgate).
Battlestar Galactica: Season 4.0
(2008) Four-disc set with 10 episodes, $49.98. Extras: Deleted scenes, "The Look of Battlestar Galactica," minisodes, commentary, video blogs, "Cylons: The Twelve" featurette, behind-the-scenes featurettes, "The Music of Battlestar Galactica," more. (Universal).
Behind Enemy Lines: Columbia
(2008) Joe Manganiello, Keith David, WWE superstar Mr. Kennedy. Second sequel in the franchise about U.S. soldiers abandoned behind enemy lines.Extras: Commentary, six featurettes. (Fox).
Bob the Builder: Race to the Finish
(2008) Feature-length animated film, exclusive to DVD: Bob and his crew build a new community sports stadium, teaching kids that teamwork and fun go hand-in-hand; $14.98. Extras: Read-along, bonus episode. (HIT Entertainment/Lionsgate).
Disaster Movie
(2008) Carmen Electra, Kimberly Kardashian, Matt Lanter, Vanessa Minnillo, Crista Flanagan, Nicole Parker, Ike Barinholtz .In rated and unrated editions. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Lionsgate).
Doctor Who: The War Machines
Four episodes of "Doctor Who: The War Machines" arc and four episodes from the "Doctor Who: Four to Doomsday" arc; $24.98. (Warner).
DogTown: New Beginnings
Five episodes of the National Geographic series that follows the dedicated team of experts that work to rehabilitate damaged dogs at Utah's DogTown, part of the largest no-kill animal facility in the United States -- The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary; $24.98. (Warner).
Duckman: Season Three and Four
(1996-97) Seven-disc set with 48 episodes, $49.99. (Paramount).
Elmo Loves You
(2008) Elmo is making a super special surprise card for someone he really loves, but a gust of wind blows it away, and Elmo and Rosita chase the card all over Sesame Street. Can Super Grover use his heroic skills to save the day? Special performances by Trisha Yearwood, John Legend and R.E.M. $14.93. (Genius Products).
The Films of Michael Powell
"Age of Consent" (1969), starring James Mason and Helen Mirren; and "A Matter of Life and Death (Stairway to Heaven)" (1946), starring Kim Hunter, David Niven, Robert Coote and Raymond Massey. Second release under the creative partnership between Sony and Martin Scorsese's non-profit film preservation organization, The Film Foundation, which seeks to make available newly restored classic films on DVD. Extras: "Age of Consent": Introduction by Martin Scorsese, three featurettes: "Making Age of Consent," "Helen Mirren: A Conversation With Cora" and "Down Under With Ron & Valerie Taylor," commentary by author/film historian Ian Christie; "A Matter of Life and Death": Introduction by Martin Scorsese, commentary by film historian Kent Jones. (Sony).
Frisky Dingo: Season 2
Single disc with 12 episodes, $19.97. (Warner).
Ghost Writer
(2009) Alan Cumming, David Boreanaz, Anne Heche, Carrie Fisher, Henry Thomas, Karen Black. A failed composer takes in an aspiring novelist/dilettante, only to find himself pushed to the edge of insanity when his charity is taken for granted. Extras: Commentary by Cumming, who also directed. (Genius Entertainment).
Kiss of the Vampire (Immortally Yours)
(2009) Daniel Goddard, Gary Daniels, Costas Mandylor, Matthias Hues, Eric Etebari, Miranda Kwok, Nick Jameson, Katherine Hawkes. A sleepy town turns into a place of evil unrest when a covenant of vampires starts to feed. One man tries desperately to uncover their secrets, but until he can they ravage the locals and out-smart the police. (MTI Home Video).
Kung Fu Killer
(2008) David Carradine, Daryl Hannah. To avenge the murder of his Wudang Grandmaster, White Crane (Carradine), a Caucasian monk and spiritual master of the martial arts, infiltrates the Shanghai underground, where he forms an unusual bond with a New York lounge singer and her gangster boss. (Genius Products and RHI Entertainment)
Mannix: The Second Season
(1968-69) Six-disc set with 24 episodes, $54.99. (Paramount).
Pineapple Express
(2008) Seth Rogen, James Franco, Danny R. McBride, Gary Cole, Rosie Perez, Amber Heard, James Remar. Available as a single-disc theatrical DVD, a two-disc unrated DVD set, and on Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Extended and alternate scenes; gag reel, "The Making-of Pineapple Express" featurette; commentary by Judd Apatow and Seth Rogen. Two-disc set and Blu-ray includes theatrical and unrated extended versions, and adds raw footage, additional featurettes and behind-the-scenes vignettes, more. (Sony).
Ping Pong Playa
(2007) Jimmy Tsai, Roger Fan, Shelley Malil. Coming-of-age comedy tale of a Chinese-American gangsta-rapper wannabe brother whose pipe-dream of being a basketball superstar is sidelined when he takes his brother's place in a big Ping Pong tournament. Available on Blu-ray Disc. (Image Entertainment).
The Plot to Kill Hitler
(1990 -- TV) Brad Davis, Madolyn Smith Osborne, Ian Richardson. Recreation of the 1944 attempt by several German High Command officers to assassinate Hitler and take control of the German government. Timed for the January wide release of Tom Cruise's "Valkyrie." (Warner).
Righteous Kill
(2008) Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, 50 Cent, Carla Gugino, John Leguizamo, Donnie Wahlberg, Brian Dennehy. Extras: "The Investigation: An In-Depth Look at Righteous Kill" featurette, "The Thin Blue Line: An Exploration of Cops & Criminals," commentary by producer-director Jon Avnet. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Anchor Bay).
Secret Diary of a Callgirl
(2007) Two-disc set with eight episodes, $29.98. Extras: Interview with the star, Billie Piper. (Lionsgate).
The Taking of Power by Louis XIV
(1966 -- Italian) Filmmaking legend Roberto Rossellini brings his passion for realism and unerring eye for the everyday to this portrait of the early years of the reign of France's "Sun King," and in the process reinvents the costume drama. The death of chief minister Cardinal Mazarin, the construction of the palace at Versailles, the extravagant meals of the royal court: all are recounted with the same meticulous quotidian detail that Rossellini brought to his contemporary portraits of postwar Italy. "The Taking of Power by Louis XIV" dares to place a larger-than-life figure at the level of mere mortal. Stars Jean-Marie Patte, Raymond Jourdan,Silvagni, Katharina Renn, Dominique Vincent. In a new, restored digital transfer. Extras: "Taking Power," a multimedia essay by Tag Gallagher, author of "The Adventures of Roberto Rossellini," video interview with artistic advisor Jean Dominique de la Rochefoucauld and script supervisor Michelle Podroznik, video interview with Renzo Rossellini, new essay by critic Colin MacCabe. (The Criterion Collection).
10 Dead Men
(2007) Brendan Carr, Terry Stone, Doug Bradl. Ryan (Carr) has spent years putting his brutal past behind him. He'is a different man, far from the stone cold killer he was a lifetime ago. But when an old face from his past arrives on his doorstep, Ryan is called upon to repay a blood debt from years ago ... but the price is too high. Betrayed, and with his life falling apart around him, Ryan goes on a murderous, bloody revenge spree against the ten men who took his life away from him. (MTI Home Video).
Transformers Animated Season Two
(2008) Two-disc set with 13 episodes, $26.99. Extras: Commentary, three animated shorts, photo gallery. (Paramount).
Tripping the Rift: The Complete Third Season
(2007) Two-disc set with 13 episodes of the Sci Fi Channel animated series, $29.97. (Anchor Bay Entertainment).
The Tudors: The Complete Second Season
(2008) Four-disc set with 10 episodes, $42.99. Extras: "Tower of London" and "Descendants of Henry" featurettes. (Paramount).
The Wackness
(2008) Ben Kingsley, Josh Peck, Olivia Thirlby, Famke Janssen, Mary-Kate Olsen, Method Man. Extras: Deleted scenes, commentary by director Jonathan Levine and Josh Peck, "Keeping it Real: A Day in the Life of Jonathan Levine," "Time in a Bottle: Behind the Scenes of The Wackness," "The Luke Shapiro Show." Also available on Blu-ray Disc.
The Waltons: The Complete Eighth Season
Three-disc set with 24 episodes, $39.98. Extras: Two-hour retrospective feature. (Warner).
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January 13
All Roads Lead Home
(2008) Vivienne Cardone, Patton Oswalt, Jason London, Peter Coyote, Peter Boyle. After 12-year-old Belle (Cardone) loses her mother in a car accident, she rebels against her father (Coyote) and is sent to her maternal grandfather's working farm. With Belle's father struggling with grief and guilt and her grandfather (Boyle) detached and directionless, Belle devotes herself to saving the animals that are destined to be destroyed because they cannot produce for the farm. Can Belle's work bring her family back together and help them rediscover their love for each other? (Anchor Bay).
Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Chipettes
Six episodes from the 1980s featuring the three female chipmunks, $16.99. (Paramount).
Appaloosa
(2008) Dir.: Ed Harris; Renee Zellweger, Viggo Mortensen, Renee Zellweger, Timothy V. Murphy, Daniel T. Parker.Extras: Commentary by Ed Harris and screenwriter-producer Robert Knott, "Bringing the Characters of Appaloosa to Life," "Historical Accuracy of Appaloosa," "The Town of Appaloosa," "Dean Semler's Return to the Western" featurette, deleted scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (New Line).
Balls Out: Gary the Tennis Coach
(2008) Seann William Scott, Randy Quaid. A tennis star who quit the sport after a traumatic incident on the court finds his way back to America and a job as a high school janitor. When the high school tennis coach drops dead, he convinces the school to let him take over, determined to whip the team's crew of slackers into shape. Extras: Commentary, "Tennis, Anyone?" featurette, "A Hot Apple Pie" making-of featurette, deleted scenes, outtakes. (Sony).
Ben 10 Alien Force Season One, Volume 2
Five episodes, $14.98. (Warner).
Blindsight
(2006) Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas, the documentary follows the true-life adventure of six blind Tibetian teenagers on a climbing expedition up formidable Mount Everest. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette. (Image Entertainment).
Breakfast at Tiffany's
(1961) Dir.: Blake Edwards; Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal, Buddy Ebsen, Martin Balsam, Mickey Rooney. Centennial Collection (100th anniversary of Paramount) edition two-disc set. Extras: Commentary by producer Richard Shepherd, photo gallery, eight-page booklet, eight featurettes: "A Golightly Gathering," "Henry Mancini: More Than Music," "Mr. Yunioshi: An Asian Perspective," "The Making of a Classic," "It's So Audrey: A Style Icon," "Behind the Gates: The Tour," "Brilliance in a Blue Box," "Audrey's Letter to Tiffany's." (Paramount).
Brick Lane
(2007) Tannishtha Chatterjee, Satish Kausik, Christopher Simpson. Winner of the London Film Festival and the San Sebastian International Film Festival. A young Bangladeshi woman, Nazneem, arrives in 1980s London, leaving behind her beloved sister and home, for an arranged marriage and a new life. Trapped within the four walls of her flat in East London, and in a loveless marriage with the middle-aged Chanu, she fears her soul is quietly dying. Extras: "Exploring Brick Lane" featurette, interviews, scene specific commentaries, commentary by director Sarah Gavron and Tannishtha Chatterjee. (Sony).
Brideshead Revisited
(2008) Matthew Goode, Ben Whishaw, Hayley Atwell, Emma Thompson, Michael Gambon, Greta Scacchi. Extras: Deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes featurette. (Miramax).
Dallas: The Complete Tenth Season
Three-disc set with 29 episodes, $39.98. (Warner).
The Family That Preys
(2008) Dir.: Tyler Perry; Tyler Perry, Jennifer Hudson, Sanaa Lathan, Kathy Bates, Alfre Woodard, Rockmond Dunbar, Taraji P. Henson, Robin Givens, Cole Hauser, Kadee Strickland. Extras: Featurettes, deleted scenes. (Lionsgate).
Fireman Sam: Saves the Day
Five episodes from the PBS KIDS Sprout series, $14.98. Extras: Bonus episode. (HIT Entertainment/Lionsgate).
Funny Face
(1957) Dir.: Stanley Donen; Audrey Hepburn, Fred Astaire, Kay Thompson, Michel Auclair, Robert Flemyng. Centennial Collection (100th anniversary of Paramount) edition two-disc set. Extras: Photo gallery, eight-page booklet, six featurettes: "Kay Thompson: Think Pink," "This Is VistaVision," "Fashion Photographers Exposed," "The Fashion Designer and His Muse," "Parisian Dreams," "Paramount in the '50s." (Paramount).
Hit and Run (aka Bumper)
(2008) Laura Breckenridge, Kevin Corrigan, Christopher Shand. A night of Spring Break partying turns into a living nightmare for student Mary Murdock after hitting a bump on a dark road only to find a man dangling from her car's bumper. Panicked, Mary frantically beats him unconscious, buries him in the woods and returns home to cover her tracks. But is he really dead? (MGM).
I Do: How To Get Married and Stay Single (Prete-moi ta main)
(2006 -- French) Alain Chabat, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Bernadette Lafont. A carefree single man, pressured by his family to get married, hatches a hare-brained scheme: He will find the "perfect woman," pay her to pose as his fiancee to charm his family, and then arrange for her to jilt him at the altar on their wedding day. That way, his family will feel sorry for him and never mention marriage again. When he meets Emmanuelle (Charlotte Gainsbourg), the sister of Luis' best friend, it seems like a win-win situation, but even the best-laid plans of single men can go horribly wrong. (Lionsgate).
The Last Enemy
(2008) Two-disc set of the five-episode PBS thriller series that explores how technology and terror could transform civilization into a dystopian society of constant surveillance. $29.95. (WGBH Boston Video).
Little Britain, USA
Two-disc set with six episodes, $29.98. Extras: Commentary, deleted scenes, bloopers, more. (HBO Video).
The Lost Gods
(2006) Five episodes of the Smithsonian Channel series about the gods of ancient civilizations, $24.98. (Infinity Entertainment).
Lovejoy: The Complete Season 4
Four-disc set with 13 episodes of the crime-solving antiques dealer, starring Ian McShane, $69.98. (Warner).
Make 'Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America
(2009) Three-disc set of the six-hour PBS miniseries. Hosted by Billy Crystal and narrated by Amy Sedaris. The documentary melds performances, biographical portraits, and American history to illustrate how comedy has mirrored the political and social changes in American society. Each hour-long episode focuses on a different genre of comedy, from slapstick and satire to stand-up and sitcoms. "Make 'Em Laugh" compiles the most popular routines, the most ingenious physical shtick, the snappiest wisecracks, and the most incisive, biting satirical jokes to have come out of American culture. The list of influential comedic talent featured and/or interviewed for the series includes: Charlie Chaplin, Jack Benny, Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Sid Caesar, Judd Apatow, Woody Allen, Larry Wilmore, George Carlin, Richard Pryor, Richard Lewis, Jon Stewart, and many others. $34.95. (Rhino Entertainment).
Matlock: Season Two
(1987-88) Six-disc set with 23 episodes, $54.99. (Paramount).
Mirrors
(2008) Amy Smart, Kiefer Sutherland, Paula Patton, Jason Flemyng, Julian Glover, Ezra Buzzington, John Shrapnel. Unrated. Extras: Featurette on the myths and mythology behind mirrors, making-of featurette, deleted scenes, alternate ending. Also available on Blu-ray Disc.
Mr. Mike's Mondo Video
(1979)Demented comedy from the mind of National Lampoon's and Saturday Night Live's notoriously funny writer-performer Michael O'Donoghue. Spoof of the 1962 shock-exploitation documentary "Mondo Cane," which featured travelogue vignettes of bizarre cultural practices designed to titillate Western audiences. Features members of the classic 1979 Saturday Night Live cast: Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin and Laraine Newman. $19.99. Extras: "Mr. Mike's Least-Loved Bedtime Tales" from Saturday Night Live (1976-1977), Bill Murray's on-air eulogy for Michael O'Donoghue (1994). commentary by writer Mitch Glazer. (Shout! Factory).
My Best Friend's Girl
(2008) Dane Cook, Kate Hudson, Jason Biggs, Alec Baldwin, Lizzy Caplan. In rated and unrated versions. Extras: Commentaries, behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted and extended scenes, gag reel, more. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Lionsgate).
My Bloody Valentine: Special Edition
(1981) Jaime King, Jensen Ackles, Kerr Smith. Extras: Lost footage, an interactive horror film history, a featurette that examines the history of the making of the film. Coincides with Lionsgate's 3-D remake of the film arriving in theaters January 16. (Lionsgate).
NatureTech
(2006) Three episodes of the Smithsonian Channel series about the evolving science of looking to nature for answers to modern problems, $24.98. (Infinity Entertainment).
Our Daily Bread
(2005 -- Germany) Documentary on the world of industrial food production and high-tech farming. To the rhythm of conveyor belts and immense machines, the film looks into the places where food is produced in Europe: monumental spaces, surreal landscapes and bizarre sounds -- cool, industrial environments that seem right out of science fiction movies. In the modern world of high-tech agriculture, animal husbandry and industrial food processing, there's little room for humans -- except as consumers. Extras: Behind-the-scenes photo gallery, interview with director Nikolaus Geyrhalter. $29.98. (Icarus Films Home Video).
Patti Smith: Dream of Life
(2008) Filmmaker Steven Sebring directed this award-winning documentary about legendary musician Patti Smith, surveying her life, her career, and the philosophical and spiritual themes that have dominated her work. Following her through 11 years of work and touring, the film explores Smith's artistry in music, painting and poetry, offering intimate insight into the musician's often conflicted creative style. $24.09. (Palm Pictures).
Reba: Season Five
Two-disc set with 22 episodes, $29.98. (Fox).
Ring of Death
(2008) Johnny Mesnner, Stacy Keach, Charlotte Ross, Uriah Shelton. An ex-cop is tapped by the FBI to go undercover in a prison to uncover a deadly fight club. (Genius Products and RHI Entertainment).
Saxondale: Seasons 1&2
Three-disc set with 13 episodes of the British comedy series about an ex-roadie now at the "cutting edge" of the pest control industry, $39.98. (Warner).
Shut Up and Shoot!
(2006) Gary Busey, Tom Sizemore and Daniel Baldwin, Joseph Cortese, Silvio Pollio. A hot movie producer convinces his star to kill off his producing partners and catch the murders on camera. (Koch Vision).
Skins: Volume 1
Three-disc set with nine episodes of the edgy British teen series, $39.98. Extras: Diaries, ancillary storylines, more. (Warner).
Swing Vote
(2008) Kevin Costner, Dennis Hopper, Nathan Lane, Kelsey Grammer, Stanley Tucci, George Lopez, Madeline Carroll, Paula Patton, Judge Reinhold, Willie Nelson, Mare Winningham, Richard Petty. Extras: Commentary by writer-director Joshua Michael Stern and writer Jason Richman, "Inside the Campaign: The Politics of Production," deleted and extended scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Disney).
'Til Death: The Complete Second Season
(2007-08) Two-disc set with 18 episodes, $29.95. Extras: Bloopers, "Pre-Show Antics With Brad Garrett" featurette. (Sony).
Tyler Perry's House of Payne: Volume Three
Three-disc set with 20 episodes, $29.98. (Lionsgate).
Tyler Perry's The Marriage Counselor: The Play
(2008) The latest stage play written and directed by American playwright Tyler Perry takes a comedic look (with music) at life and love through the eyes of a marriage counselor. (Lionsgate).
Underworld/Underworld: Evolution Double Feature
Three-disc set with the two-disc "Underworld Unrated Extended Edition" and "Underworld: Evolution Special Edition," both starring Kate Beckinsale and Scott Speedman; $19.94. (Sony).
Walker, Texas Ranger: The Sixth Season
(1998-99) Six-disc set with 23 episodes, $54.99. (Paramount).
Without a Paddle: Nature's Calling
(2009). Oliver Jame, Amber McDonald, Madison Riley, Kristopher Turner, Rik Young, Ellen Albertini Dow. Direct-to-video sequel to the 2004 comedy. Everything that can go wrong does when two best friends and one zany Brit venture out into the wilderness in search of a high school sweetheart. Extras: "Up the Creek: The Making of Without a Paddle: Nature's Calling," "Furious Nuts" behind-the-scenes squirrel casting featurette,
"Treehouse Tales," deleted scenes, gag reel. Available on Blu-ray Disc. (Paramount).
Yeti
(2008) Peter DeLuise, Carly Pope, Crystal Lowe, Ed Marinaro. A group of college students battle the legendary creature; 12th installment in TV's "Maneater" series. (Genius Products).
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January 20
The Adventures of Walker & Ping Ping
New animated series that introduces kids to Chinese life, culture and language. The first two episodes: "The Great Wall" and "The Chinese Market," $11.99 each. (Little Emperor).
American East
(2007) Sayed Badreya, Tony Shalhoub, Sarah Shahi, Constance Zimmer, Kais Nashif. A widowed immigrant and devoted family man faces societal pressures and discrimination in a post-9/11 world. Owner of Habibe's Cafe, a popular Middle Eastern hangout in Los Angeles, Mustafa (Sayed) decides to take on a new venture and open a restaurant with Jewish partner Sam (Shalhoub). Unfortunately, his plan leads to resistance from his cafe regulars and the local Arab and Jewish communities. (MGM).
Amusement
(2008) Keir O'Donnell, Katheryn Winnick, Jessica Lucas, Laura Breckenridge, Tad Hilgenbrink. We've seen this before: Three women are stalked by a killer with a grudge that extends back to the girls' childhoods. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Warner).
Another Man's Garden
(2006 -- Portuguese) Groundbreaking film about a young woman from Mozambique whose aspirations are in conflict with the typical opportunities afforded women in her culture; $24.95. (First Run Features Global Lens Film Series).
The Berenstain Bears: Kindness, Caring and Sharing
Five episodes featuring the loveable animated bears in stories that provide positive role models for parents and children; $12.99. (Sony).
Bikini Royale
(2008) Beverly Lynne, Monique Parent. It's Double-O excitement as The Girl From BIKINI returns in her newest espionage thriller. Spies have never been naughtier as Agent Tanya X goes "undercovers" and does whatever it takes to retrieve stolen missile plans in a high-stakes poker game. (Infinity Entertainment).
Boogeyman 3
(2008) Erin Cahill, Kate Maberly, Matt Rippy, Jayne Wisener. Second sequel. Extras: Deleted scenes, "Creating the Boogeyman" featurette, "Deconstructing the Deaths" featurette, "Boogey in Bulgaria" featurette. (Sony).
Captains and the Kings
(1976) Richard Jordan, Perry King, Patty Duke, Ray Bolger, Blair Brown, John Carradine, Katherine Crawford, Charles Durning, Henry Fonda, Celeste Holm, John Houseman, Burl Ives, Vic Morrow, Barbara Parkins, Joanna Pettet. Jane Seymour, Ann Sothern, Robert Vaughn. Three-disc set of the nine-part mini-series based on the best-selling novel by Taylor Caldwell, a rags-to-riches tale of an Irish immigrant in late 1800s.. $39.98. (Koch Vision).
Center Stage: Turn It Up
(2008) Ethan Stiefel, Peter Gallagher, Sarah Jayne Jensen, Rachele Brooke Smith. Heartwarming story about a self-trained dancer from the streets of Detroit who makes her way to New York's most prestigious ballet academy; dance-filled sequel to "Center Stage." Extras: "The Choreography of Center Stage" featurette, "Center Stage: Turn It Up" featurette. (Sony).
Charlie & Me
(2008 -- TV) Tom Bosley, Jordy Benattar. When her beloved grandfather Charlie suddenly falls ill, 12-year-old Casey finds herself making some life or death decisions -- and learning to live with the consequences. (Genius Entertainment).
The Children of Huang Shi
(2008) Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Radha Mitchell, Chow Yun Fat, Michelle Yeoh. Extras: "The Challenge of Huang Shi" behind-the-scenes featurette. (Sony).
Children of the Stones
Seven episodes of the cult 1970 British sci-fi series about paranoia and the paranormal in a sleepy English village, $24.99. (Acorn Media).
Chris Rock: Kill the Messenger
HBO stand-up performance, available as a standard DVD and a three-disc special edition with five hours of bonus features including an interview with Rock. (HBO Video).
City of Ember
(2008) Bill Murray, Tim Robbins, Saoirse Ronan, Harry Treadaway, Martin Landau, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Toby Jones, Mary Kay Place. (Fox).
Cold Prey
(2006 -- Norway) Ingrid Bolso Berdal, Rolf Kristian Larsen, Tomas Alf Larsen, Endre Martin Midtstigen, Viktoria Winge. Norwegian horror film that took Europe by storm and won an international fan following. Five youngsters are heading for the Jotunheimen mountain area to go snowboarding. On the slope, one of them has a bad fall and breaks a leg. Their mobile phones out of range, they catch sight of a mountain hotel in the distance, and decide to find shelter there. The hotel lies empty and silent, obviously closed down years ago. The phone lines are dead, and the youngsters realize they have to spend the night in the hotel. But it turns out they're not alone: In the basement they discover a filthy dungeon of a room, where somebody has recently lived. (Anchor Bay Entertainment).
Confessions of an Action Star
(2008) David Leitch, Debbie Allen, Lee Arenberg. Mockumentary on the rise and fall of a larger-than-life action star, who traveled from exotic dancing to boxoffice fame. (Lightyear Entertainment).
Criss Angel Mindfreak: The Complete Season Four
(2008) Three-disc set with 18 episodes, $34.95. (A&E Home Video).
The Deal
(2008) William H. Macy, Meg Ryan, LL Cool J, Elliot Gould, Jason Ritter. Screwball Hollywood satire about renegade producers dealing in love and moviemaking: A down-and-out film producer agrees to make his nephew's film about 19th century English statesman Benjamin Disraeli. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette, digital copy. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Peace Arch Entertainment).
El Norte
(1993 -- Spanish) Dir.: Gregory Nava; Ernesto Gomez Cruz, David Villalpando, Zaide Silvia Gutierrez, Alicia del Lago. Brother and sister Enrique and Rosa flee persecution at home in Guatemala and journey north, through Mexico and on to the United States, with the dream of starting a new life. It's a story that happens every day, but until Gregory Nava's groundbreaking"El Norte (The North)," the personal travails of immigrants crossing the border to America had never been shown in the movies with such urgent humanism. A work of social realism imbued with dreamlike imagery, "El Norte" is a lovingly rendered, heartbreaking story of hope and survival, which critic Roger Ebert called "a Grapes of Wrath for our time." Director approved special edition, two-disc set. New, restored high-definition digital transfer supervised and approved by director Gregory Nava. Extras: Commentary featuring Nava; "In the Service of the Shadows: The Making of "El Norte": a new video program featuring interviews with Nava, producer and co-writer Anna Thomas, actors Zaide Silvia Gutierrez and David Villalpando, and set designer David Wasco; "The Journal of Diego Rodriguez Silva," Nava's 1972 award-winning student film; gallery of Chiapas location-scouting photographs; booklet featuring an essay by novelist Hector Tobar and Roger Ebert's 1983 review of the film. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (The Criterion Collection).
Emergency! Season Five
(1975-76) Five-disc set with 24 episodes, $39.98. (Universal).
The End of America
(2008) Documentary based on Naomi Wol's New York Times bestseller. As our country ushers in a historic new administration, the film offers an eye-opening indictment of the sweeping policy changes enacted during the Bush Administration that have greatly limited individual liberties while increasing the power of government. Artfully weaving insightful interviews with a cache of spectacular and telling archival photos and footage spanning the last eight years, filmmakers Annie Sundberg and Ricki Stern expertly bring to life Wolf's chilling case that American democracy is under grave threat and her galvanizing call urging regular citizens to take back our legacy of freedom and justice. Two-disc set. Extras: Extended interviews: Daniel Ellsberg ("Pentagon Papers"); Vincent Cannistraro, former CIA Counter Terrorism chief; Eric Lichtblau, New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist; Col. David Antoon, author; Brigadier General James P. Cullen, former Chief Judge of the U.S. Army Court of Criminal Appeals; Mike German, former FBI agent; featurettes; commentary; 2008 pre-election ending and 2008 post-election update. $29.95. (IndiePix: www.indiepixfilms.com).
The Express
(2008) Dennis Quaid, Rob Brown, Omar Benson Miller, Clancy Brown, Charles S. Dutton. Extras: "Making of the Express" featurette, "Making History: The Story of Ernie Davis," "Inside the Playbook: Shooting the Football Games," commentary, deleted scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Universal).
Fireproof
(2008) Kirk Cameron, Erin Bethea, Alex Kendrick, Bailey Cave, Jim McBride, Tommy McBride, Janet Lee Dapper.
George Wallace
(1997) Award-winning miniseries directed by John Frankenheimer and starring Gary Sinise, Angelina Jolie, Mare Winningham. Extras: Featurette. (Warner).
The Girls of Little House on the Prairie: Country School
Three episodes from the classic series, $14.98. (Lionsgate).
The Girls of Little House on the Prairie: Prairie Friends
Three episodes from the classic series, $14.98. (Lionsgate).
The Great Polar Bear Adventure
(2007) Discovery Kids special that shows the world through the eyes of the largest predator found on land -- the polar bear. Combines stunning real life cinematography with cutting edge animation. Voices of Howie Mandel and Megan Follows. Extras: Making-of featurette. $14.95. (Genius Products).
Henry Poole Is Here
(2008) Luke Wilson, Radha Mitchell, Adriana Barraza, George Lopez, Cheryl Hines, Richard Benjamin, Morgan Lily, Rachel Seiferth, Beth Grant. Extras: "The Making of Henry Poole Is Here" featurette; commentary by director Mark Pellington and writer Albert Torres, "All Roads Lead Home" and "Henry Poole Is Here" music videos, more. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Anchor Bay).
Igor
(2008) Voices of John Cusack, Eddie Izzard, Steve Buscemi, Jennifer Coolidge, John Cleese, Sean Hayes, Molly Shannon, Jay Leno, Arsenio Hall. Extras: Deleted scenes, bloopers, "Be an Igor" featurette. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (MGM).
Jonathan Creek: Season 3
Two-disc set with seven episodes of the British answer to "The X-Files," $34.98 .(Warner).
Jurassic Fight Club: The Complete Season One
Four-disc set with 12 dinosaur confrontations, $34.95. (A&E Home Video).
The Last Detective: Complete Collection
Nine-disc set with all 17 episodes of the hit British series about the comically competent detective who always gets his man, but never any respect. Never aired in the States. $99.99. Extras: "Dangerous Davies: The Last Detective" 1981 movie, interviews. (Acorn Media).
Magnificent Obsession
(1954) Dir.: Douglas Sirk; Jane Wyman, Rock Hudson, Barbara Rush, Agnes Moorehead, Otto Kruger. Reckless playboy Bob Merrick (Rock Hudson, in his breakthrough role) crashes his speedboat, requiring emergency attention from the town's only resuscitator -- at the very moment that beloved local Dr. Phillips has a heart attack and dies waiting for the life-saving device. Thus begins one of Douglas Sirk's most flamboyant master classes in melodrama, a delirious Technicolor mix of the sudsy and the spiritual in which Bob and the doctor's widow, Helen (Jane Wyman), find themselves inextricably linked amid a series of increasingly wild twists, turns, trials, and tribulations. For this release, Criterion also presents John M. Stahl's 1935 film version of the Lloyd C. Douglas novel, starring Irene Dunne and Robert Taylor. New, restored high-definition digital transfer. Two-disc set. Extras: Commentary featuring film scholar Thomas Doherty; "From UFA to Hollywood: Douglas Sirk Remembers" (1991, 82 minutes), a rare documentary by German filmmaker Eckhart Schmidt in which Sirk reflects upon his career; video interviews with filmmakers Allison Anders and Kathryn Bigelow, in which they pay tribute to Sirk; booklet featuring a new essay by film critic Geoffrey O'Brien. (The Criterion Collection).
Max Payne
(2008) Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Beau Bridges, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Chris O'Donnell, Amaury Nolasco, Olga Kurylenko. Available as a single-disc DVD, Special Edition DVD and Blu-ray Disc. Extras: The single-disc DVD includes the theatrical Version and unrated extended cut of the film ands commentary by director John Moore, production designer Daniel Dorrance and visual effects supervisor Everett Burrell. The Special Edition adds a behind-the-scenes documentary, "Michelle Payne" animated graphic novel, unrated digital copy. (Fox).
MGM: When the Lion Roars
(1992) Three-part Emmy award-winning miniseries explores the history of MGM, keying in on the moguls, stars and directors that made the studio great in the 1920s, 30s and 40s; narrated by Patrick Stewart. Two-disc set, $29.98.
MI-5: Volume 6
Five-disc set with 10 episodes of the British spy series, $24.98. (Warner).
Monsterquest: The Complete Season Two
(2008) Five-disc set with 18 episodes, $39.95. (A&E Home Video).
Moonlight: The Complete Series
Four-disc set with 16 episodes, $39.98. (Warner).
My Three Sons: Season One, Volume Two
(1961) Three-disc set with 18 episodes, $42.99. (Paramount).
National Lampoon's Stoned Age
(2007) Adam Rifkin, Ali Larter, David Carradine, Talia Shire, Carol Alt, Gary Busey. A Stone Age visionary goes up against the reigning Neanderthals. Originally released as "Homo Erectus." Available in R-rated and unrated editions. Extras: Commentary, bloopers, outtakes, deleted scenes, more. (Paramount).
The Notebook Limited Edition Giftset
(2004) Dir.: Nick Cassavetes; Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner, Gena Rowlands, Sam Shepherd, Joan Allen. Boxed set with photo album and scrapbook (with accessories such as stickers and photo corners, a stationary set with letterhead and envelopes, and collectible bookmarks. Extras: Commentary by director Nick Cassavetes, commentary by author Nicholas Sparks, three featurettes, screen tests, deleted scenes, more. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (New Line).
On Each Side
(2006 -- Spanish) Follows the interconnected lives of several people who are affected by the building of the Rosario-Victoria Bridge -- a gargantuan, modern undertaking that links two Argentine cities. As the bridge rises, director Hugo Grosso introduces characters from both modern and traditional Argentina, bringing into stark relief the connections and conflicts between generations; $24.95. (First Run Features Global Lens Film Series).
Palo Pinto Gold
(2009) Trent Willman, Glynn Praesel, Joanna Goode. A Texas Ranger turns bad and murders his partner for gold, only to be hunted down by the son of the man he killed. (Monarch Home Video).
Paranormal State: The Complete Season Two
(2007) Two-disc set with 12 episodes, $24.95. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette. (A&E Home Video).
Poison Ivy: The Secret Society
(2009) Miriam McDonald, Catherine Hicks, Greg Evigan, Crystal Lowe. Fourth installment in the series about sexy temptresses who let nothing get in the way of their ambitions; here it revolves around college. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Warner).
The Powerpuff Girls: 10th Anniversary Collection: The Complete Series
Six-disc set with 78 episodes, $59.97. (Warner).
Repo! The Genetic Opera
(2008) Anthony Stewart Head, Sarah Brightman, Alexa Vega, Bill Moseley, Paul Sorvino, Paris Hilton. Rock opera. In the near future, after a worldwide epidemic of organ failures that devastates the planet, a biotech company begins offering organ transplants ... for a price. Those who miss their payments are scheduled for repossession and hunted by the villainous Repo Men. Extras:Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Lionsgate).
The Rockford Files: Season Six
(1979-80) Three-disc set of the final season, with 12 episodes, $39.98. (Universal).
Save Me
(2008) Chad Allen, Robert Gant, Judith Light, Stephen Lang. A sex and drug addicted young man is forced into a Christian-run ministry in an attempt to cure him of his "gay affliction", but instead he is faced with the truth in his heart and spirit. Extras: Interviews, deleted scenes, director's notes. (First Run Features).
Saw V
(2008) Tobin Bell, Julie Benz, Costas Mandylor, Scott Patterson, Mark Rolston, Samantha Lemole, Meagan Good, Carlo Rota, Greg Bryk, Laura Gordon. Available in four versions: rated DVD, unrated DVD, Collector's Box DVD and Blu-ray Disc.Extras: Commentaries, featurettes, more. The Collector's Box features a spinning saw blade as part of the packaging along with a voice chip that creates the "Jigsaw" voice and saw sound effects when activated; also includes a picture booklet with a letter from director David Hackl. (Lionsgate).
Taxi Blues
(2008 -- Russian) Natalia Kolikanova, Vladimir Kachpour, Hal Singer, Elena Saphonova. One of the first works to address the coming end of the Soviet Union. In a world filled with hustlers and black marketers, Shlykov, a hard-working, anti-Semitic taxi driver, is pushed over the edge when Lyosha, a Jewish saxophonist who personifies everything he despises, stiffs him for a fare. Shlykov tracks the irresponsible musician down and the two form a bizarre love-hate relationship. At first, class and race division make friendship for these two nearly impossible, until they both learn they aren't so different after all. (Koch Lorber Films).
Vacancy 2: The First Cut
(2009) Agnes Bruckner, Trevor Wright, Scott G. Anderson. Prequel has a recently engaged couple check into the deadly motel with a friend, unaware they're the first intended victims of a team of psychopaths bent on filming and profiting from their murders. Extras: Deleted scenes, "Caught on Tape: Behind the Scenes of Vacancy 2," "Behind the Facade: Constructing the Meadow View Inn" featurette, commentary with filmmakers and cast. (Sony).
Voodoo Dollz
(1990) Grace Phillips, Nathalie Gauthier. Adventures at an exclusive finishing school where the girls truly are finished. (Infinity Entertainment).
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January 27
Abraham Lincoln: His Life and Legacy
(2007) Four-disc History set celebrates the 200th anniversary of America's most beloved president. Includes: "Lincoln"; "Investigating History: Lincoln: Man or Myth"; "Man, Moment, Machine: Lincoln and the Flying Spying Machine"; "Conspiracy?: Lincoln Assassination"; "High Tech Lincoln"; "Sherman's March" and "The Hunt for John Wilkes Booth"; $34.95. (A&E Home Video).
Adam Clayton Powell
(1989) Documentary on the controversial black leader, from his emergence as the princely pastor of Harlem's enormous Abyssinian Baptist Church, where he became known as "Mr. Jesus," to his improbable, riotous political climb and championing of the "War on Poverty" legislation, to his eventual ruin, including being denied his seat in Congress. Narrated by civil rights activist Julian Bond. $19.95. (Docurama).
The Beiderbecke Affair
Two-disc set with six episodes of the lighthearted British series that centers on a pair of wisecracking schoolteachers turned amateur detectives. Broadcast on PBS in the 1990s. $39.99. (Acorn Media).
Black Is ... Black Ain't
(1994) Acclaimed director Marlon Riggs challenges the traditional definition of blackness while issuing a ringing call to African-Americans to celebrate diversity within the community so that the dream of unity can be achieved. An unabashedly frank and honest -- and at times humorous -- look at black identity in America. $19.95. (Docurama). $19.95. (Docurama).
Blossom: Seasons One & Two
Six-disc set with all 37 episodes, $49.99. Extras: Original "Blossom" pilot, commentaries, interviews, more. (Shout! Factory).
Cannery Row
(1982) Nick Nolte, Debra Winger. (Warner Valentine's Day All-Star Romance Classics).
Cheers: The Final Season
(1992-93) Four-disc set with 25 episodes, $39.98. (Paramount).
College
(2008) Drake Bell, Kevin Covais, Andrew Caldwell, Nick Zano. Extras: Gag reel. (MGM).
Dead of Night
(1977 -- TV) Anthology of three horror tales written by Richard ("I Am Legend") Matheson: "Second Chance," "No Such Thing as a Vampire" and "Bobby." $14.98. (Dark Sky Films).
ER: The Complete 10th Season
Six-disc set with 22 episodes, $49.98. Extras:Extras: Gag reel, "Outpatient Outtakes": Unaired scenes. (Warner).
Fantastic Flesh: The Art of Makeup EFX
(2008) Starz Original documentary featuring interviews with Wes Craven, John Carpenter, Eli Roth, George A. Romero, John Landis, Frank Darabont, Robert Rodriguez, Mick Garris, Tom Savini, Dick Smith, Quentin Tarantino, as well as clips from such classic horror and fantasy films as "Frankenstein," "The Exorcist," "Planet of the Apes," "The Chronicles of Narnia," "An American Werewolf in London," "The Thing," "Grindhouse," "Sin City," "Transformers," "Day of the Dead," "Kill Bill-Vol. 1 and 2," "Total Recall," "The Howling" and many more; $19.97. (Anchor Bay).
Far From the Madding Crowd
(1967) Dir.: John Schlesinger; Julie Christie, Alan Bates, Peter Finch, Terence Stamp. (Warner Valentine's Day All-Star Romance Classics).
Girls Rock!
(2008) The Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls is a place where 8-18 year-olds from all over the country come to jam -- forming bands, writing songs and building community. What the girls learn through music extends far beyond song and what they discover is their own true voice and a confidence that is the true meaning of "Girls Rock!" Documentary looks at the innovative camp that started seven years ago in Portland, Oregon. (Liberation Entertainment).
Goodbye Mr. Chips
(1969) Dir.: Herbert Ross; Peter O'Toole, Petula Clark. (Warner Valentine's Day All-Star Romance Classics).
Gospel According to Al Green -- The 25th Anniversary Edition
(1984) An up-close-and-personal look at the charismatic soul legend with an unshakeable faith and an incandescent smile. The acclaimed documentary from Robert Mugge also features several special features including a 90-minute audio interview with Green. $24.99. (Acorn Media).
The Great Music Caper
(2008) Voices of Joanna Levesque, Bow Wow, Cheech Marin. Animated adventure follows little Dizzy and Bop as they rescue their musical, magical land from an evil villain; $19.97. (The Weinstein Co./Genius Products).
Haunted Histories, Volume 3
Five-disc set explores the darkest recesses of evil around the world and through the ages, from the Devil to Dracula; $24.95. (A&E Home Video).
A Hero Ain't Nothin' but a Sandwich
(1978) Cicely Tyson, Paul Winfield. Heart wrenching story about a family struggling with the issues of teenage drug use and crime in their poverty-stricken neighborhood. (Koch Vision).
Higher Ground
(1988) John Denver, Martin Kove, John Rhys-Davies, Richard Masur. CBS drama. John Denver stars as disillusioned FBI agent Jim Clayton who decides to end his career and fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a bush pilot in Alaska. Clayton joins his air force buddy Rick Loden (Kove) to help him run his air freight business. But when Loden is murdered and unjustly branded a bootlegger, Clayton is determined to find the murderer and clear Loden's name. (Sony).
Holly
(2006) Ron Livingston, Chris Penn, Udo Kier, Virginie Ledoyen, Thuy Nguyen. Ron Livingston plays an American card shark and dealer in stolen artifacts in Cambodia who encounters a 13-year-old Vietnamese prostitute, sold by her impoverished family and smuggled across the border as part of the sex trade. Shocked out of his complacency, he embarks on a frantic adventure to bring her to safety. Extras: Interviews, behind-the-scenes featurette. (City Lights Home Entertainment).
Hulk vs.
Two animated films featuring Marvel comic characters: "Hulk vs. Thor" and "Hulk vs. Wolverine." Extras: Commentary, featurettes, more. Available as a standard DVD, two-disc standard DVD set (with extras) and on Blu-ray Disc. (Lionsgate).
Imaginary Witness
(2004) Documentary explores Hollywood's Involvement with and attitude towards the Holocaust. Featuring interviews with Steven Spielberg, Sidney Lumet and other prominent filmmakers and historians. Using rare newsreel footage as well as gripping clips from more than 40 films, this award-winning documentary explores how filmmakers and popular culture have portrayed the Holocaust over the past 60 years. Narrated by Gene Hackman. $24.98. (Koch Vision).
The Invaders: The Second Season
(1968) Seven-disc set with the final 26 episodes, $39.99. (Paramount).
John Grisham Courtroom Collection
Four films based on Grisham novels (in time for the release of his latest, "The Associate": "Pelican Brief," "The Client," "A Time to Kill" and "Runaway Jury," $39.92. (Warner).
Lakeview Terrace
(2008) Dir.: Neil LaBute; Samuel L. Jackson, Patrick Wilson, Kerry Washington, Eva La Rue, Bitsie Tulloch. Extras: Commentary by director Neil LaBute and Kerry Washington, three behind-the-scenes featurettes:
"An Open House," "Meet Your Neighbors" and "Home Sweet Home," deleted scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Sony).
Listen Up! The Lives of Quincy Jones
(2008) Documentary on the award-winning musician, composer and producer$24.98. Extras: Featurettes, interviews, more. (Warner).
The Love Boat: Second Season, Volume One
(1978) Four-disc set with 13 episodes, $39.99. (Paramount).
The Lucky Ones
(2008) Rachel McAdams, Tim Robbins, Michael Pena. Three soldiers -- strangers -- on leave from the war in Iraq meet at JFK Airport in New York and team to take an unexpected road trip across the United States. (Lionsgate).
Mary Poppins: The 45th Anniversary Edition
(1964) Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns, Hermione Baddeley, Karen Dotrice, Matthew Garber, Elsa Lanchester. Two-disc set. Extras: "Mary Poppins from Page to Stage"; "Step in Time": The Broadway cast of Mary Poppins performs the never-before-filmed number "Step in Time" from the show; video intro by scenic and costume designer Bob Crowley; Bob Crowley's design galleries for the Broadway musical; commentary by Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, Karen Dotrice and Richard Sherman; "Poppins Pop-Up Fun Facts"; "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious: The Making of Mary Poppins"; "Movie Magic": A look at the special effect techniques used to bring the magical world of Mary Poppins to life; gala world premiere footage from the red carpet; Dick Van Dyke make-up test; trailers, ads and more from the original release and reissue of the film; Mary Poppins still art galleries; "Disney's Song Selection" sing alongs; "Magical Musical Reunion"; "Musical Journey With Richard Sherman"; bonus short: "The Cat That Looked at a King"; deleted song: "Chimpanzoo." (Disney).
My Uncle Silas: Series One
(2001) Two-disc set with three episodes of the Masterpiece Theatre series starring Albert Finney as the loveable Uncle Silas, a charming old rascal whose love of alcohol and women make him a bad influence on his 10-year-old nephew. $29.98. (BFS Entertainment).
Open Season 2
(2008) Joel McHale, Crispin Glover, Jane Krakowski, Mike Epps, Olivia Hack. Animated sequel to the 2006 smash hit. Extras: "Going WILD! With the Voice Cast of Open Season 2," "How to Draw Your Favorite Characters: Boog, Elliot & Fifi," "Wacky Weenie Arcade" featuring five carnival-style games for kids, deleted scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Fox).
The Pink Panther Collector's Edition
(1963) Dir.: Blake Edwards; David Niven, Peter Sellers, Robert Wagner, Capucine. Extras: Commentary by Blake Edwards, five featurettes: "The Pink Panther Story," "Beyond the Feline: The Cartoon Phenomenon," "The Coolest Cat in Cortina: Robert Wagner," "The Tip Toe Life of a Cat Burglar: A Conversation With Former Jewel Thief Bill Mason," "Diamonds: Beyond the Sparkle." Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (MGM).
The Pink Panther Film Collection Box Set
Seven "Pink Panther" films: "The Pink Panther Collector's Edition," "A Shot in the Dark," "The Pink Panther Strikes Again," "The Revenge of the Pink Panther," "The Trail of the Pink Panther," "The Curse of the Pink Panther," $69.98. (MGM).
The Secret Policeman's Balls
The Secret Policeman's Balls was the collective name for a legendary series of hilarious, irreverent and groundbreaking benefit shows staged to raise funds for Amnesty International, beginning in 1976, and featuring the cream of Britain's comedians (Monty Python, Beyond the Fringe, Rowan Atkinson)and international musical talent (Pete Townshend, Phil Collins, Bob Geldof, Peter Gabriel, Donovan, Jackson Brown, Lou Reed, Kate Bush, more). This three-disc set contains five classic shows: "Pleasure at Her Majesty's" (1976), "The Secret Policeman's Ball" (1979), "The Secret policeman's Other Ball" (1981). "The Secret Policeman's Third Ball" (1987), and "The Secret Policeman's Biggest Ball" (1989), plus a wealth of rare bonus content. $39.99. (Shout! Factory).
Pride and Glory
(2008) Edward Norton, Colin Farrell, Noah Emmerich, Samantha Morton, Lake Bell, Jennifer Ehle, John Voight. Extras: "Source of Pride: The Making of Pride and Glory" featurette, digital copy. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Warner).
Primal Fear
(2008) Our deepest fears are revealed and explored in this History documentary, going beyond the innate terror associated with our most prevailing fears to examine the history, psychology, and science behind them. $24.95. (A&E Home Video).
The Rocker
(2008) Rainn Wilson, Christina Applegate, Teddy Geiger, Josh Gad, Emma Stone, Jeff Garlin, Jane Lynch, Jason Sudeikis, Will Arnett, Howard Hesseman. Two-disc set. Extras: Digital copy for portable media players, commentary by director Peter Cattaneo and actor Rainn Wilson; commentary by actors Josh Gad, Teddy Geiger, Emma Stone and Jason Sudeikis; deleted scenes; gag reel; "Rainn Wilson: Office Rocker" featurette; "Pete Best Interview" featurette; "Behind The Band: Vesuvius" featurette; "Rock Beat With Fish Fishman" featurette; "The Music of The Rocker" featurette; "Rock Tales" featurette; MTV Film Festival panel; four exclusive podcasts; Vesuvius Public Service Announcements. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Fox).
RocknRolla
(2008) Dir.: Guy Ritchie; Gerard Butler, Thandie Newton, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Jeremy Piven, Idris Elba, Tom Wilkinson. Two-dsic set. Extras: Commentary by Guy Ritchie and Mark Strong, "Guy's Town" behind-the-scenes featurette, digital copy. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Warner).
Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired
(2008) Marina Zenovich's HBO documentary examines the public scandal and private tragedy that led to legendary director Roman Polanski's sudden flight from the United States. On March 11, 1977, Roman Polanski was arrested in Los Angeles and charged with the following counts: furnishing a controlled substance to a minor, committing a lewd or lascivious act on a child, unlawful sexual intercourse, rape by use of drugs, perversion and sodomy. Less than a year later, on February 1, 1978, Polanski drove to LAX, bought a one-way ticket to Europe, and never came back. Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired explores the implausible events that took place between these dates, along with details, before and after, that forever altered the life and career of Polanski, one of the world's most acclaimed directors. The film re-examines the notorious California case involving Polanski, the world's most celebrated director at the time, whose life already read like the script of one of his most tragic, brutal films. Polanski lost both his Polish parents during WWII, but rose to become a star filmmaker in Poland, England and, later, the U.S. His storybook love affair with Sharon Tate ended with her 1969 murder at the hands of followers of Charles Manson; she was eight months pregnant. Surviving the tragedy and press firestorm accompanying it, Polanski rebuilt his career in the 1970s - until he made a fateful mistake during a 1977 photo shoot with a 13-year-old girl. $27.98. (Image Entertainment).
Russell Peters: Red, White and Brown
(2009) Recorded at the WAMU Theatre at Madison Square Garden in February, 2008, Peters delivers material from his record-breaking Homecoming Tour, with tales of his travels to India and Dubai, as well as his own issues with body hair, the World Cup and Cheap Indians. A DVD/CD combo, $19.99. Extras: Commentary, deleted scenes. (Comedy Central/Paramount).
The Scream'in Sam Kinison Collection
(2009) Box set with five Sam Kinison comedy specials: "Sam Kinison: Breaking the Rules," "Sam Kinison: Family Entertainment Hour," "Sam Kinison in Las Vegas," "Outlaws of Comedy With Sam Kinison" and "Brother Sam: A Tribute to Sam Kinison"; $14.98. (Mill Creek Entertainment).
The Secret of the Magic Gourd
(2007 -- China) Voice of Corbin Bleu as the lead character. One of China's top grossing family films and Disney's first Chinese language film. A boy learns the meaning of work after a magic gourd grants him anything he wants. Extras: Games, behind-the-scenes featurette, bloopers, music video. (Disney).
Sidney Poitier Collection
Four-disc set with "Edge of the City," "A Warm December," "Something of Value" (all new to DVD) and "A Patch of Blue"; $39.92. (Warner).
Songs in Ordinary Time
(2000) Sissy Spacek, Beau Bridges. CBS telefilm centers around Marie Fermoyle (Spacek) a divorced mother of three children struggling to provide for her family in Vermont. Marie's life is forever changed with the arrival of an enigmatic stranger named Omar Duvall (Bridges), to whom the family extends their hospitality. Marie quickly becomes an easy target for the smooth-talking Omar, who seduces her and her family with the promise of easy money and success. (Sony).
Sonny Rollins: Saxophone Colossus
(1998) The definitive portrait of a jazz legend and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award-winner from acclaimed documentarian Robert Mugge. Blending background, profile, and performance, it offers much more than a concert film. Filmed in New York City, Tokyo, and a rock quarry in upstate New York, this historic documentary features scenes from a concert at Opus 40 and a world premiere concert with a Japanese symphony orchestra. $24.99. (Acorn Media).
Sputnik Mania
(2008) Documentary about the 1950's arms and space race, narrated by Liev Schreiber, and based on Paul Dickson's best-seller "Sputnik: The Shock of the Century." Two-disc set, $29.95. Extras: More than 140 minutes of never-before-seen footage: "Alert Today, Alive Tomorrow"; "American Anti Communist"; "Communist Society"; "Crazy Russian Space Film"; "Laica"; "Missiles, Missiles, Missiles." (A&E Home Video).
The Stewardesses 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition
(1969) Michael Garrett, Christina Hart, William Basil. Three-disc set with three versions of the cult film: Full, uncut 3-D color version, restored B&W 3-D version, color 2-D version. Extras: Interview with cast and crew, outtakes, screen tests. (Shout! Factory).
This American Life: The Second Season
(2008) Host Ira Glass hits the road to collect compelling stories of everyday Americans. Six episodes of the Showtime series, $19.99. Extras: Commentary. (Paramount).
2012: Science or Superstition
(2009) December 21, 2012: the end date of the sophisticated Long Count Calendar created by the ancient Maya in Central America. Countless books and websites, magazine articles and newspaper headlines debate its meaning, with enthusiasts in two camps: those forecasting apocalypse -- the end of time -- and those who see a coming renewal, a rebirth of consciousness. This compelling and definitive documentary brings to life the fascinating debate on the 2012 phenomenon through riveting interviews with leading experts, illuminating cosmic footage from NASA and eye-popping CGI. $19.95. (The Disinformation Company).
Vicky Christina Barcelona
(2008) Dir.: Woody Allen; Scarlett Johansson, Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Rebecca Hall, Patricia Clarkson. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (The Weinstein Co./Genius Products).
Warner Bros. Romance Classics Collection
"Palm Springs Weekend" (1964), "Parrish" (1961), "Susan Slade" (1961) and "Rome Adventure" (1962); $39.92. (Warner).
Waterloo Bridge
(1940) Dir.: Mervyn LeRoy; Vivien Leigh, Robert Taylor. (Warner Valentine's Day All-Star Romance Classics).
The Yellow Rolls Royce
(1965) Ingrid Bergman, Shirley MacLaine, Rex Harrison, George C. Scott, Art Carney, Omar Sharif, Jeanne Moreau, Alain Delon. (Warner Valentine's Day All-Star Romance Classics).
You're a Good Sport, Charlie Brown
(1975 -- TV) Remastered deluxe edition, $19.98. (Warner).
All listings are based on information from
the home video studios. Some release dates may change and titles may come out
after a specified date (with no announcement from the studio). Additionally,
some titles may be released with little or no advance announcement. And since
all DVDs are priced at sell-through and are available for substantial discounts
at both online and brick-and-mortar stores, we only list suggested retail prices
for some special editions, box sets and collections.
All DVDs are screened on a reference system consisting of a
Oppo BDP-83 Blu-ray Disc Player w/SACD & DVD-Audio, a
Rotel RSX-972 Surround Sound Receiver, and Phase Technology 1.1 (front), 33.1 (center),
and 50 (rear) speakers and Power 10 subwoofer.
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