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Catalogs of DVDs released 1999 -- 2006

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November 2013
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November 1

Saving Santa (2013) Animated family film with the voices of Martin Freeman, Noel Clark, Tim Conway, Tim Curry, Ashley Tisdale, Joan Collins. A lowly stable elf finds that he is the only one who can stop an eccentric billionaire scoundrel's invasion of the North Pole by using the secret of Santa's sleigh, a TimeGlobe, to travel back in time to save Santa -- twice. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo. (Anchor Bay).


November 5

Absolutely Fabulous: Absolutely All of It Ten-disc set contains every episode and special from the award-winning five-season series, spanning over 20 years of misguided adventures with fashionista best friends Edina (Jennifer Saunders) and Patsy (Joanna Lumley) -- all tucked away in a superr-luxe limited edition faux (totally PC, sweetie) iguana skin clutch bag. Formats: DVD, $158.72. (BBC Home Entertainment).

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photo for Angelina Ballerina: Twirling Tales Angelina Ballerina: Twirling Tales (2013) Angelina and her friends stay on their toes in these twirling, whirling tales of friendship and fun for the little ones: "Angelina's Dance Like a Cake Day," "Angelina's Noisy, Messy Lunchtime," "Angelina and the Musical Plant," "Angelina and Her Parents' Dance Lessons" and "Angelina's Mother's Day." Formats: DVD, $14.98. Extras: "A Dance a Day" Dance Club, "1, 2, 3, 4, 5" karaoke music video, "Swing Thing" karaoke music video.(Lionsgate).
Ben 10 Omniverse: Aliens at War (2012-13) Two-disc set with 10 episodes from the second and third season of the Cartoon Network series, $19.97. Formats: DVD. Extras: "Alien Database." (Warner).
The Best Man BLU-RAY DEBUT (1999) Taye Diggs, Morris Chestnut, Monica Calhoun, Terrence Howard, Harold Perrineau, Nia Long. Extras: "Spotlight on Location," Columbia/Sony music soundtracks presentation, theatrical trailer. (Universal).
photo for The Best Years of Our Lives BLU-RAY DEBUT (1946) Dir.: William Wyler; Myrna Loy, Fredric March, Dana Andrews, Teresa Wright, Virginia Mayo, Cathy O'Donnell, Hoagy Carmichael, Harold Russell, Gladys George, Roman Bohnen, Ray Collins. One of the greatest films of all time encapsulates the dreams, desires and realities of mid-20th century America. The Academy Award-winning film (seven Oscars, including Best Film and Best Director) follows three WWII veterans who return home to small-town America to discover that they and their families have been irreparably changed. Capt. Fred Derry (Andrews), a soda jerk before the war, returns to a loveless marriage; Sgt. Al Stephenson (March), a banker, returns a stranger to a family that's grown up without him; and sailor Homer Parrish, a machinist, returns home, tormented by the loss of his hands, to his loving and understanding girlfriend. Extras: Introduction by Virginia Mayo, interview with Mayo and Teresa Wright, theatrical trailer. (Samuel Goldwyn/Warner).


The Bishop's Wife BLU-RAY DEBUT (1947) Dir.: Henry Koster; Cary Grant, Loretta Young, David Niven, Monty Woolley, James Gleason, Gladys Cooper, Elsa Lanchester. Samuel Goldwyn/Warner).
Bonnie & Clyde: Justified (2013) Eric Roberts, Dee Wallace, Ashley Hayes, Jim Poole. A&E miniseries uses the poems and letters of Bonnie Parker to bring to life the love that brought Bonnie and Clyde together, the crimes that made them infamous, and the deaths that made them legendary. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Stills gallery. (Lionsgate).
Bonnie & Clyde: The Real Story (2013) Compilation of two History Channel specials "Bonnie & Clyde: The Story of Love and Death" and "Man, Moment, Machine: Hunting Bonnie and Clyde." The story of Bonnie and Clyde -- and their infamous tale of love and violence -- has fascinated people for nearly 80 years. This release is timed for the "Bonnie & Clyde" miniseries airing on three networks: A&E, History and Lifetime. Formats: DVD. (Lionsgate).
Boy Meets World: The Complete Collection (1993-2000) Twenty-two-disc set with all seven seasons and all previously released bonus material plus newly created featurettes which include brand new interviews with the cast, $99.98. Formats: DVD. New Extras: "Boy Meets World: Back to the Beginning" featurette, "Boy Meets ... World Fandom" featurette explores fan favorite moments, characters and lines. (Lionsgate).
Bratz Babyz Save Christmas: The Movie (2013) When a trip to the mall with Gran leads to the shocking discovery that Santa won't be able to "deliver" this Christmas, things aren't so merry and bright for Cloe, Sasha, Jade and Yasmin. Now it's up to the girlz to find the North Pole, train to be elves and stop a trio of bumbling bandits from stealing a very special Christmas gift. Formats: DVD, $14.98; VOD; Digital. (Lionsgate).
Care Bears: The Great Giving Holiday (2013) New CGI holiday special with Great Giving Bear, Harmony and all their cuddly Bear friends. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. Extras: Extra episode. (Lionsgate).
Clear History (2013) Larry David, Jon Hamm, Kate Hudson, Eva Mendes, Michael Keaton, Bill Hader, Phillip Baker Hall, Danny McBride, Amy Ryan, J.B. Smoove. HBO Original Film about a marketing executive (David) at a start-up electric car company who gives up his 10 percent of the business after a petty argument with his boss (Hamm). The company subsequently makes billions of dollars, destroying his life and leaving him publicly humiliated. Ten years later, after changing his name and moving to a small island off the Massachusetts coast, all is well -- until something from the past threatens his new life. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, Digital. (HBO).
Doctor Who: The Complete Series 1-7 Limited Edition Blu-Ray Gift Set Twenty-nine-disc set celebrating Doctor Who's 50th anniversary. The set includes the complete adventures of the Ninth Doctor (Christopher Eccleston) and Tenth Doctor (David Tennant), available in newly remastered Blu-ray versions at full 1080p resolution for the first time ever, sitting alongside those of the Eleventh Doctor (Matt Smith). Also includes fully remastered complete Tenth Doctor Specials as well as The Complete Fifth and Sixth Series (previously available on Blu-ray), photo for Doctor Who: The Complete Series 1-7 Limited Edition Blu-Ray Gift Set to full 1080p resolution, and the new "Doctor Who: The Complete Seventh Series Blu-ray." Extras include hours and hours of bonus features from the past collections plus 120 minutes of bonus material that has never previously been available on disc. Add in a Doctor Who Universal Remote Control Sonic Screwdriver, a gesture-based remote control replica of the Eleventh Doctor's trusty tool, crafted from real metals and featuring sound effects from the show; now you can control your television with a wave of your hand and feel like a Time Lord yourself. There's also three exclusive original art cards and an exclusive Doctor Who comic book. $349.98. (BBC Home Entertainment).
Dora the Explorer: Dora's Ice Skating Spectacular! (2013) Three episodes: Dora and Boots skate to the rescue of the Snow Princess, Snow Fairy, and all their Snowy Forest friends!; Dora catches a runaway train; Dora races to rescue Boots with her puppy and Scooter. Formats: DVD, $14.98. (Nickelodeon/Paramount).
Duck Dynasty: I'm Dreaming of a Redneck Christmas (2013) A double-length Christmas special, $9.98. Formats: DVD. (Lionsgate).
East End Babylon: The Story of the Cockney Rejects (2013) There were only three ways out of the East End -- football, boxing and rock 'n' roll. This documentary tells the unvarnished story of the Cockney Rejects through interviews, archive material and thunderous live footage: It's a no frills look at the career of a band which probably had more punk attitude than almost anyone else. Formats: DVD. (MVD Visual).
Farscape: Complete Series (1999-2003) 15th Anniversary Edition with all 88 complete and unedited episodes from the four-season run. Includes a 16-page mini comic book created by the same team that made Jim Henson's acclaimed graphic novel "Tale of Sand." Based on the prequel "Peacekeeper Wars," the comic includes select images from The Jim Henson Company's archive and an exclusive interview with Brian Henson revealing never-before-shared facts about the Farscape Legacy. In 20-disc Blu-ray ($149.95) and 27-disc DVD ($129.95) sets. DVD Extras: "Memories of Moya: An photo for Farscape: Complete Series Epic Journey" documentary; "Farscape Undressed," the home-video premiere of the rarely seen, long-sought-after never before released behind-the-scenes special; three archival documentaries: "In the Beginning: A Look Back With Brian Henson," "Making of a Space Opera" and "Season Three: A Look Back With Executive Producer David Kemper"; three "Inside Farscape" featurettes: "Villains," "Visual Effects" and "Inside Farscape: Save Farscape," in which fans, cast and crew discuss the fate of the series; 31 audio commentaries; deleted scenes, director's cut scenes, and an alternate version of the Season 2 premiere; behind-the-scenes interviews with the characters, cast, and creative team of "Farscape"; "Listening in With Composer Guy Gross" featurettes for 12 episodes; original TV promos. Blu-ray Extras: 29 episode commentaries; "Memories of Moya: An Epic Journey" documentary; three archival documentaries: "In the Beginning: A Look Back With Brian Henson," "Making of a Space Opera" and "Inside Farscape: Save Farscape," in which fans, cast and crew discuss the fate of the series; multiple video profiles featuring archival clips and cast/crew discussing their characters and roles on "Farscape"; more than 90 minutes of deleted scenes; slideshows and archival photo galleries, including character concepts and promo photos; production design galleries featuring screenshots, rough drafts and concept slide shows; behind-the-scenes interviews with Ben Browder, Claudia Black, Anthony Simcoe, Virginia Hey, Gigi Edgley, Paul Goddard (Stark), Wayne Pygram (Scorpius) and more; original TV promos and trailers. (Cinedigm).
photo for The Fitzgerald Family Christmas The Fitzgerald Family Christmas (2012) Kerry Bishe, Connie Britton, Edward Burns, Heather Burns, Dara Coleman, Brian d'Arcy James. The adult siblings of the Fitzgerald family prepare for their estranged father to return home for Christmas for the first time since he walked out on his family 20 years earlier. Functioning as the head of a family of seven brothers and sisters, Gerry is used to being the go-to guy to get family matters handled. When estranged father Jim shows up with a request to spend the holidays with the family, it's no easy feat for Gerry to address. Faced with old resentments, hurt feelings and anger, this is a family decision that won't be made easily, especially when his mother Rosie is adamant that Jim is never to set foot back into her home. Trying not to choose sides, Gerry must find a way for them to reach a decision on whether or not to forgive and allow the holiday family reunion. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: "The Making of The Fitzgerald Family Christmas"; commentary with writer-director-producer-actor Edward Burns; theatrical trailer. (Magnolia Home Entertainment).
Girl Most Likely (2013) Kristen Wiig, Annette Bening, Matt Dillon, Darren Criss, Christopher Fitzgerald, June Diane Raphael, Natasha Lyonne, Bob Balaban. Read more about "Girl Most Likely" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc,VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: "Making Most Likely" featurette, "Life in the Human Shell" featurette, deleted scenes, gag reel. (Lionsgate).
Grown Ups 2 (2013) Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, Salma Hayek, Maya Rudolph, Maria Bello, Shaquille O'Neal, Nick Swardson, Alexander Ludwig, Milo Ventimglia. Read more about "Grown Ups 2" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Eight deleted scenes, "Shaq and Dante: Police Force" featurette. Blu-ray adds three featurettes: "Look Who Stopped By" look at the cameos throughout the film, "Mr. Spade's Wild Ride" with Spade as he prepares to be rolled down the hill in a tire, and "The Feder House" look at the construction of the sound stage where the Feder house was built. (Sony).
photo for Guess How Much I Love You: Hidden Treasure Guess How Much I Love You: Hidden Treasure (2013) Six animated episodes from the Disney Junior TV series inspired by the "Adventures of Little Nutbrown Hare" books by Sam McBratney. Formats: DVD, $12.98. (Entertainment One).
The Hive (2013) Three 88-minute long DVDs of episodes from the new Disney pre-school series about the Bee family: "A Very Buzzbee Christmas," "Buzzbee's Family Adventures" and "Party in the Honeybee Hive." $12.95 each. Formats: DVD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). (Cinedigm).
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Extended Edition (2012) Dir.: Peter Jackson; Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Lee Pace, Ian Holm, Luke Evans, Cate Blanchett, Orlando Bloom, Elijah Wood, Hugo Weaving, Evangeline Lilly, Christopher Lee, Benedict Cumberbatch. Formats: Five-disc Blu-ray 3D set ($54.98), three-disc Blu-ray ($35.99), five-disc DVD ($34.99), VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Features a 13-minute longer cut and nine hours of new special features, including commentary with director-producer-screenwriter Peter Jackson and co-producer/screenwriter Philippa Boyens, and "The Appendices," a multi-part documentary focusing on various aspects of the film and the Trilogy. (New Line).
I Love Lucy: Colorized Christmas Both colorized and black-and-white versions of "The Lucy Christmas Special," "Lucy Goes to Scotland" and "Lucy's Italian Movie." Formats: DVD, $16.99. (CBS/Paramount).
photo for Ice Road Truckers: Season 7 Ice Road Truckers: Season 7 (2013) Four-disc set with 12 episodes, $24.98. The truckers battle more than treacherous winter roads in Season 7 of the hit History series. Hugh Rowland is back, this time as the boss, with his own trucking company. Bound and determined to reclaim his crown as "King of the Road" and take down well-established rival Polar Industries, he's confronted by an arsenal of heavy haulers, including Alex Debogorski and Lisa Kelly, who return to the icy roads with a goal and a grudge. With families to support, a no-nonsense work ethic and an against-all-odds determination, each trucker continues to race against the elements -- and each other -- keeping their eyes on the road ... and the big prize. Formats: DVD. Extras: Bonus footage. (Lionsgate).
Intolerance BLU-RAY DEBUT and DVD (1916) D.W. Griffith changed the course of film history with his 1915 Civil War blockbuster "The Birth of a Nation," and, spurred on by its colossal success, he went even bigger on his next epic, the ambitious and still awe-inspiring "Intolerance," in which he masterfully links four centuries-apart stories of universal suffering. Stung by charges of glorifying racism in "The Birth of a Nation," Griffith decided to make his next film a plea for tolerance, acceptance and understanding. An epic like nothing that came before , the monumental film remains as powerful today as it was almost a century ago; the major innovation in screen narrative tells four stories in parallel about social injustice and the effects of intolerance through the ages. "The photo for Modern Story," about a working man wrongly accused of a crime, was later issued as a separate film ("The Mother and the Law," 1919). "The Judean Story" tells of Jesus' conflicts with the Pharisees and Rome. "The Medieval Story" is about the effects of the massacre of 16th-century French Huguenots. "The Babylonian Story," about the conquest of Babylon by Persia, also was issued later as a separate film ("The Fall of Babylon," 1919). Skillful cross-cutting and linking shots of a figure representing Eternal Motherhood rocking a cradle, bring all four stories to a tense climax. With the profits from "The Birth of a Nation," Griffith spared no expense on "Intolerance," constructing huge sets and hiring thousands of extras for spectacular crowd scenes; the most iconic representation of this lavishness remains the sequence set at the immense walls of Babylon. Many of the leading stars of the silent screen appear in the film, including Griffith regular Lillian Gish, Mae Marsh, Elmo Lincoln, Robert Harron and Constance Talmadge. Remastered in 2K. The musical soundtrack is in mono for the DVD and 2.0 LPCM for the Blu-ray. Carl Davis' orchestral score is in 5.1 Dolby Digital. Extras: The two full-length features drawn from "Intolerance": "The Fall of Babylon" and "The Mother and the Law," accompanied by new scores by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra; a 2013 featurette with film historian Kevin Brownlow; new essays by Cineaste magazine editor Richard Porton and historian William M. Drew; and a theatrical rerelease trailer. (Cohen Film Collection).
James Dean Ultimate Collector's Edition BLU-RAY DEBUT A beautifully designed and packaged limited and numbered seven-disc Blu-ray set celebrating James Dean. When he died in 1955 at the age of 24 in a car crash, Dean -- a talented "method" actor, rebel and risk taker -- was mourned by millions of fans throughout the world. Despite only making three films -- all of them for Warner Bros. -- Dean became one of Hollywood's most spectacular stars, and 50 years later still remains an internationally compelling force, an iconic image, and a cult favorite of timeless fascination. The core of the set are his three films: "East of Eden," "Rebel Without a Cause" and "Giant," each in a 4k restoration from original camera negatives remastered at Warner Bros. Motion Picture Imaging. For "Rebel Without a Cause," the stereo soundtrack was reconstructed from the magnetic photo for James Dean Ultimate Collector's Edition BLU-RAY DEBUT soundtrack stripes of CinemaScope release prints. Also included are three full-length documentaries: "James Dean Forever Young," narrated by Martin Sheen; "American Masters: James Dean -- Sense Memories" and "George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey" (Stevens directed "Giant"). The collection also contains a 48-page photo book with behind-the-scene images and rare insight into each film, three mini reproductions of the original theatrical movie posters, and reproductions of production memos from "East of Eden" and "Rebel Without a Cause." The "Ultimate Collector's Edition" will sell for $99.98; each film will also be available as a stand-alone Blu-ray book for $27.98 each. Extras: New featurette: "Dennis Hopper: Memories from the Warner Lot"; vintage documentaries: "James Dean Remembered," "Forever James Dean," "George Stevens: Filmmakers Who Knew Him," "Return to Giant, "Memories of Giant,"" East of Eden: Art in Search of Life," "Rebel Without a Cause: Defiant Innocents"; commentaries on all three films; premiere footage for "East of Eden" and "Giant"; wardrobe tests; screen tests; deleted scenes for "East of Eden" and "Rebel Without a Cause"; and much, much more. (Warner).
Journey to the Christmas Star (2012 -- Norway) Agnes Kittelsen, Jakob Oftebro. A courageous girl sets out on a hazardous journey to find the Christmas Star in order to free the kingdom from a curse and bring back a long lost princess, against all odds and a mighty foe. Formats: DVD, $14.99. (Vertical Entertainment).
Keeping Up Appearances: Collector's Edition Ten-disc set of the perennial hit sitcom includes every episode, newly remastered and gathered together in a limited edition "Gardeners Vest" package with collectible seeds and plant tags. Features more than 200 minutes of bonus content, including the brand new featurette "Hyacinth Revealed." Formats: DVD, $158.72. (BBC Home Entertainment).
photo for Killer Holiday Killer Holiday (2013) Michael Copon, Rachel Lara, Julia Beth Stern, Alex Mandel. Psychotic killer Melvin "Spider" Holiday stalks eight unsuspecting teenage victims lured to an abandoned amusement park off old Route 66. They soon discover that the park comes complete with broken down carnival rides, the smell of death and a killer ready to give them one ticket to hell. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette, gag reel. (Lionsgate).
Law & Order: The Thirteenth Year (2002-3) Five-disc set with 24 episodes. Formats: DVD. (Universal).
Lovelace (2013) Amanda Seyfried, Peter Sarsgaard, Hank Azaria, Wes Bentley , Adam Brody, Bobby Cannavale, James Franco, Debi Mazar, Chris Noth, Robert Patrick, Eric Roberts, Chloe Sevigny, Sharon Stone, Juno Temple. Read more about "Lovelace" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette. (RADiUS-TWC/Anchor Bay).
Mad Men: Season 6 (2013) All 13 episodes, $49.98. Don Draper (Golden Globe-winner Jon Hamm) and the rest of the award-winning cast deal with the after effects of adultery, divorce, a merger, and an ever changing social climate in the sixth season of the Emmy-winning series that explores the glamorous and ego-driven "Golden Age" of advertising in late 1960s New York City. Formats: Four-disc DVD, $47.98; three-disc Blu-ray, $49.98; Digital; UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: "Recreating an Era" featurette, "Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out" featurette, "Summer of Love Archives" featurette. (Lionsgate).
photo for Magic City: The Complete Second Season Magic City: The Complete Second Season (2013) Three-disc set with eight episodes of the hot Starz Miami mob series, set in the late 1950s. In this season, Ike Evans risks everything in a life and death battle to rid his Miramar Playa Hotel of the mob and Ben "The Butcher" Diamond. Ike's dangerous plan to defeat Diamond takes Ike from Havana's glamorous casinos to dealings with a new devil -- Diamond's boss in the Chicago Outfit. Ike's wife Vera gets a second chance at her former dancing glory, while sons Stevie and Danny drift farther from Ike -- Stevie toward the power and rewards of Diamond's dark world, Danny into the moral righteousness of State's Attorney Jack Klein. Changes in Castro's Cuba ripple to the shores of Miami Beach, and a new world order begins to tear the Evans family apart. Formats: DVD, $44.98; Blu-ray Disc, $54.99. Extras: "The Gamble for Havana," "The Criminal Element," "Tales From the Underbelly," "Magic City Style," "The Music That Makes Magic." (Anchor Bay).
Mickey's Christmas Carol BLU-RAY DEBUT (1983) 30th anniversary edition. Classic Disney characters play the roles in this animated retelling of the Charles Dickens masterpiece. Blu-ray/DVD Combo, Digital. (Disney).
My Name Is Nobody: 40th Anniversary Edition BLU-RAY DEBUT (1973) Dir.: Tonino Valerii, Sergio Leone (uncredited). Terence Hill, Henry Fonda, Jean Martin, R.G. Armstrong. Sergio Leone wrote and produced this Spaghetti Western, with music by Ennio Morricone. (Image Entertainment).
photo for Naked City: The Complete Series (1958-63) Twenty-nine disc set with all 138 classic episodes of the acclaimed Emmy Award-winning police drama series filmed entirely in New York City and starring Paul Burke, Horace McMahon, Harry Bellaver, James Franciscus, John McIntire and Nancy Malone. "Naked City's" first season featured half-hour episodes while the remainder of its four season run was comprised of hour-long episodes. The classic TV series -- which focused on the lives of the detectives of New York's 65th Precinct, but wasn't shy on vivid chases and gun fights -- was famous for the signature closing line of every episode, "There are eight million stories in the Naked City. This has been one of them." The show featured an amazing list of guest stars including Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, William Shatner, Martin Sheen, Robert Duvall, Rip Torn, Alan Alda, George C. Scott, Telly Savalas, Leslie Nielsen, Dennis Hopper, Peter Fonda, James Caan, Jack Klugman, Jean Stapleton, Walter Matthau, Jon Voight, Gene Hackman, Christopher Walken, Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, Peter Falk, George Segal, Jack Warden, Ed Asner, Doris Roberts, Suzanne Pleshette, Diane Ladd, Vic Morrow, James Coburn, Mickey Rooney and Burgess Meredith, to name just a few. Formats: DVD, $179.98 but available for preorder at Amazon for $99.99. (Image Entertainment).
Nazi Mega Weapons (2013) In a quest for world domination, the Nazis built some of the biggest and deadliest pieces of military hardware and malevolent technology in history. This six-part series recounts Germany's engagement in World War II from a unique perspective, uncovering the engineering secrets of iconic megastructures, telling the stories of the engineers who designed them and revealing how they sparked a technological revolution that changed warfare forever: "Atlantic Wall," "U-Boat Base," "V2 Rocket," "Super Tanks," "Jet Fighter Me262," and "Fortress Berlin." Formats: Two-disc DVD, $34.99. (PBS Distribution).
photo for Oil City Confidential Oil City Confidential (2009) Julien Temple's "Oil City Confidential" is the last film in his trilogy on British music of the 1970s, a prequel to his landmark films about punk figureheads the Sex Pistols in "The Filth & the Fury" and Joe Strummer in "The Future Is Unwritten." Rather than being standard "rockumentaries," Temple uses the music as a prism through which he examines the social and cultural conditions of the times. The films share his characteristic cinematic language -- an irreverent and anarchic style of montage of archive and fictive footage, which he pioneered in "The Great Rock & Roll Swindle." "Oil City Confidential" is a film noir feature length documentary about Dr Feelgood; it's the story of four men in cheap suits who crashed out of Canvey Island in the early '70s, sandpapered the face of rock 'n' roll and left all that came before a burnt-out ruin. Formats: DVD. (MVD Entertainment).
Out in the Dark (2012 -- Israel-USA-Occupied Palestinian Territory) Nicholas Jacob, Michael Aloni. A drama centered on the love affair between two men on opposite sites of the Mid-East conflict: Palestinian student Nimer and Roy, an Israeli lawyer. Formats: DVD. Extras: Behind the scenes featurette, deleted scenes. (Breaking Glass Pictures).
photo for Parkland (2013) Zac Efron, Marcia Gay Harden, Billy Bob Thornton, Jacki Weaver, Paul Giamatt, James Badge Dale, Jackie Earle Haley, Colin Hanks, David Harbour, Ron Livingston, Jeremy Strong, Tom Welling. Recounts the chaotic events that occurred in Dallas on November 22, 1963, the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Weaves together the perspectives of a handful of ordinary individuals suddenly thrust into extraordinary circumstances: the young doctors and nurses at Parkland Hospital; Dallas' chief of the Secret Service; an unwitting cameraman who captured what became the most watched and examined film in history; the FBI agents who nearly had the gunman within their grasp; the brother of Lee Harvey Oswald, left to deal with his shattered family; and JFK's security team, witnesses to both the president's death and Vice President Lyndon Johnson's rise to power over a nation whose innocence was forever altered. Released to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the assassination. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Blu-ray/DVD Combo. Extras: Deleted scenes. (Millennium Entertainment).
photo for Passion Passion (2013) Dir.: Brian De Palma; Rachel McAdams, Noomi Rapace. Brian De Palma returns to the sleek, sly, seductive territory of the erotic thriller with this lurid trashy melodrama. The rivalry between the manipulative boss of an advertising agency and her talented protege escalates from stealing credit to public humiliation to murder. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Interviews with De Palma, McAdams and Rapace. (Entertainment One).
Renoir (2013 -- France) Michel Bouquet, Christa Theret, Vincent Rottiers. A lushly atmospheric drama about the relationship between the giant of impressionism, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and the future giant of cinema, his director son, Jean Renoir ("Grand Illusion," "Rules of the Game"). Set on the French Riviera in the summer of 1915, Jean returns home to convalesce after being wounded in World War I. At his side is Andree, a young woman who rejuvenates, enchants, and inspires both father and son. France's entry for the Best Foreign-language Oscar for 2013. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Cinedigm).
The Right Stuff BLU-RAY DEBUT (1983) Dir.: Philip Kaufman; Sam Shepard, Scott Glenn, Ed Harris, Barbara Hershey, Dennis Quaid, Fred Ward, Jeff Goldblum. The 30th Anniversary Blu-ray Book includes rare photos, production notes and more. Extras: "The Journey and the Mission" scene specific commentary, "John Glenn: American Hero" [1998 PBS Documentary], "Realizing the Right Stuff," "T-20 Years and Counting," "The Real Men With The Right Stuff." (Warner).
photo for Robotech: The Complete Set Robotech: The Complete Set For the first time ever, the entire Robotech saga is collected in one, massive 20-disc gift set, with all 85 episodes of the original series, three feature films and over 12 hours of bonus material, including a new bonus disc never released with any previous Robotech set, $89.98. "Robotech" -- a sweeping science-fiction anime epic of humans defending their home world against alien domination -- was instrumental in introducing anime to American audiences when it first appeared on television in 1985. The saga is told through the eyes of characters caught up in a series of wars that erupts when a mysterious spacecraft crash-lands on Earth at the turn of the millennium. The secrets of alien knowledge aboard this vessel were unlocked, leading to the development of "Robotechnology" and the creation of a vast arsenal of robotic "mecha" to defend the Earth against the alien threats that would eventually strike to lay claim to the mysterious power source known as "protoculture." Formats: DVD. Extras: "Robotech: The Inside Story," featuring the original 1985 production crew; "The Making of Robotech: Love Live Alive"; animatics from "Love Live Alive"; deleted scenes from "Love Live Alive"; rare promotional reels, the original Japanese version of "Love Live Alive"; never-before-released animatics; alternate versions of episodes; deleted scenes; trailers; and all the special features from the previously released DVDs. (Lionsgate).
Saved By the Bell: The Complete Collection (1989-93) Thirteen-disc set with seasons 1-5 and all previously released bonus materials plus new special features, $49.98. Formats: DVD. New Extras: "Saturday Morning: From Toons to Teens" featurette, "It's Alright: Back to the Bell" documentary provides a comprehensive and personal account of the creation of the cultural icon. (Lionsgate).
photo for Scoot & Kassie's Christmas Adventure Scoot & Kassie's Christmas Adventure (2013) Luke Perry, Ariana Bagley, Taylor Negron, Anson Bagley. After a young girl, Kassie, rescues a wounded former police dog, Scoot, she organizes a charity concert to raise money for less fortunate kids. When two crooks show up and plot to steal the cash, Scoot leads the way as the unlikely group of heroes work together to catch the bad guys and save Christmas. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Universal).
Six Shooters (2010 -- Argentina/Spain) Pablo Cedron, Nazareno Casero, Claudio Rissi, Mariana Anghileri. Ten years after looking into the eyes of his father's killer, a young man is on the hunt for the gang of outlaws that left him homeless, traveling from town to town taking up odd jobs in exchange for shelter, hunting down each man, one by one, taking justice into his own hands. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). (Lionsgate).
Syrup (2013) Amber Heard, Shiloh Fernandez, Kellan Lutz, Brittany Snow. Based on the best-selling book about a young man who comes up with a sexy new soda drink, this comedy attempts to expose the cut-throat world of advertising through the eyes of a young prodigy chasing fame, fortune, and the woman of his dreams. When fresh-out-of-school Scat comes up with a brilliant new product that gives new meaning to the old saying "sex sells," he's sure that it will send him right to the top. But first he has to convince his boss, the beautiful and mysterious "6," that it's an idea worth millions, and overcome betrayal by his best friend. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: AXS TV: "A Look at Syrup," trailer, interview with executive producer/costume designer Sophia Banks-Coloma. (Magnolia Home Entertainment).
The Three Faces of Eve BLU-RAY DEBUT (1957) Joanne Woodward won a Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of a woman with multiple personality disorder -- Eve White, a troubled housewife who begins seeing a psychiatrist and, under hypnosis, reveals her additional personalities: a vamp and an independent sophisticate. Extras: Commentary, Fox Movietone News: Academy Awards, theatrical trailer. (Fox).
Twilight Forever: The Complete Saga Celebrating the 5th anniversary of the theatrical debut of the first "Twilight" film, this boxed set features all five films, more than two hours of brand new bonus content and every special feature ever produced for the blockbuster franchise. The deluxe packaging arrives in a double-sided box that highlights the iconic characters, one side featuring Edward and Bella and the other side featuring Jacob; and the discs are held in a commemorative photo album highlighting the most iconic moments from the entire saga. Formats: 12-disc DVD, $64.98; 10-disc Blu-ray, $74.99; Digital; UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: The all-new material featured in this complete collection includes a cast retrospective with new interviews; "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Character" featurette that showcases previously unreleased behind-the-scenes moments on set; an exploration of the epic's "Twilight FAN-omenon"; "Twilight Forever: Edward's Saga" and "Twilight Forever: Jacob's Saga." These new features will be available alongside the more than 10 hours of bonus material released in previous home entertainment editions that includes multi-part "making of" documentaries, behind-the-scenes featurettes, cast and crew interviews, deleted and extended scenes, photo galleries, red carpet footage, music videos and more. (Summit/Lionsgate).
Weeds: The Complete Collection Blu-ray (2005-12) Sixteen-disc set in a special "glowing" acrylic case package, $119.97. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: "Pot Circle: Weeds Cast Roundtable" featurette, "They Came, They Smoked, They Left" featurette, "Nancy's Sexcapades" featurette, "Suburban Black Widow" featurette. (Lionsgate).
White House Down (2013) Dir.: Roland Emmerich; Channing Tatum, Jamie Foxx, Maggie Gyllenhaal, James Woods, Richard Jenkins. Read more about "White House Down" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Four Featurettes: "A Dynamic Duo," a look at the chemistry between Tatum and Foxx and their on-screen presence; "Men of Action" featurette on Tatum's willingness and desire to perform his own stunts, as well as the extensive training required; "Roland Emmerich -- Upping the Ante," a look at Emmerich's vision for the film; "Meet the Insiders" on the supporting cast. Blu-ray adds a gag reel and nine more featurettes: "The Beast," a look at the film's presidential limo; "The Full Arsenal: Guns, Grenades, Tanks and Choppers"; "VFX Boundaries Down"; "The Inside Story" about the film's fast-moving rise from concept to the big screen; "Presidential Treatment," a look at the size and scope of the massive production; "Lights, Camera, Heart-Pumping Action"; "Crashing the Oval Office," a look at how the filmmakers constructed a stunt set, then drove an SUV at full speed into the Oval Office; "Drowning the Beast" presidential limo escape from the White House pool; "Recreating the White House," about the meticulous detail that went into replicating the White House. (Sony).
Winnie The Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year BLU-RAY DEBUT (2002) Rabbit will only discover the true spirit of the season after his pals make misguided New Year's resolutions to change. Blu-ray/DVD Combo, Digital. (Disney).

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November 12

photo for Action Packed Movie Marathon, Vol. 2 Action Packed Movie Marathon, Vol. 2 Two-disc set with four action flicks. "Bulletproof" (1988): Los Angeles cop/ex-CIA agent Frank "Bulletproof" McBain (Gary Busey) travels across the border to retrieve a top-secret attack vehicle which was hijacked by Russian-backed Libyan terrorists. Darlanne Fluegel and Henry Silva also star. "Bamboo Gods and Iron Men" (1974): An attempt is made by an underworld organization to recover a carved Buddha in which is hidden a substance powerful enough to control the world. "Trackdown" (1976): A Montana rancher (Jim Mitchum) comes to Los Angeles, searching for his runaway sister (Karen Lamm), who has become entangled in a world of crime, drugs, and prostitution. Erik Estrada, Anne Archer and Cathy Lee Crosby also star. "Scorchy" (1976): Scorchy (Connie Stevens) is a female undercover agent who will stop at nothing to bust a drug-smuggling ring. Cesare Danova, William Smith and Greg Evigan also star. Formats: DVD, $9.99. (Shout! Factory).
All the President's Men 2-Disc Special Edition BLU-RAY (1976) Dir.: Alan J. Pakula; Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Jack Warden, Martin Balsam, Hal Holbrook, Jason Robards, Jane Alexander, Meredith Baxter, Ned Beatty, Stephen Collins. New Blu-ray version commemorates the 40th anniversary of Watergate. Extras: New documentary "All the President's Men Revisited" plus vintage special features: "Telling the Truth About Lies: The Making of All the President's Men"; "Woodward and Bernstein: Lighting the Fire"; "Out of the Shadows: The Man Who Was Deep Throat"; commentary by Redford; "Pressure and the Press: The Making of All the President's Men"; Jason Robards Interview excerpt from Dinah!, hosted by Dinah Shore; trailer. (Warner).
Ambushed (2013) Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Vinnie Jones, Carly Pope, Gianni Capaldi, Daniel Bonjour. A pair of mid-level drug pushers want a chance to hit the big time and decide to achieve their goal by ripping off their middleman in a murderous bid for greatness, setting off a dangerous chain of events involving a ruthless crime boss, a dirty cop and the Federal agent chasing them all. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo. (Anchor Bay).
Animals (2012 -- Spain) Oriol Pla, Augustus Prew, Martin Freeman. An unconventional coming-of-age tale, "Animals" is an intoxicating blend of fantasy and cold reality. Seventeen-year-old high-schooler Pol has stubbornly extended his childhood, aided in no small measure by his opinionated, drums-playing, English-speaking pet Teddy bear, Deerhoof. But when he meets alluring new student Icari, the safety of Pol's innocent imagination crumbles as he experiences his first pangs of love and sexual longing. Catalan helmer Marcal Fores' debut feature. Extras: Making of featurette, "The Bear Truth" short film, "Animals," a short film by Marcal Fores, audio commentary with Fores, eight-page collectible booklet, official "Animals" trailer. (Artsploitation Films).
The Attack (2013 -- Lebanon/France/Qatar/Belgium) Ziad Doueiri. Stars: Ali Suliman, Reymonde Amsellem, Evgenia Dodena, Dvir Benedek, Uri Gavriel. Read more about "The Attack" in the November Calendar. In Arabic and Hebrew with English subtitles Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Interview with director Ziad Doueiri, theatrical trailer, photo gallery. (Cohen Media Group).
Barney: Perfectly Purple photo for Barney: Perfectly Purple (2013) More of the very very popular kids show trusted by moms and adored by children. Here's three episodes with rainbows of sharing, caring and imagination with the purple dinosaur: "A Perfectly Purple Day," "Arts" and "Neighborhood." Formats: DVD, $14.98. Extras: Animal sounds match game, "Barney's Color Train" read-along, "Clean Up, Clean Up" karaoke music video. (Lionsgate).
The Best of Dance Moms:The Championship Dances (2012) Three-disc set is a collection of episodes that feature the hottest dance routines from Seasons 1 and 2, including full-length choreographed dances never before-seen-on TV. Formats: DVD, $14.98. (Lionsgate).
Blackfish (2013) Killer whales are beloved as majestic, friendly giants yet infamous for their capacity to kill viciously. "Blackfish" unravels the complexities of this dichotomy, employing the story of the notorious performing whale Tilikum, who -- unlike any orca in the wild -- has taken the lives of several people while in captivity. This documentary expands on the discussion of keeping such intelligent creatures in captivity. Read more about "Blackfish" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: A note from the director; "Death by Mosquito in Marine Parks"; "Recollections of a Former SeaWorld Trainer"; "The Truth About Wild Whales"; "Alternatives to Captivity"; more. (Magnolia Home Entertainment).
Blood on the Docks (2011) Four episodes of the gritty French TV series -- adapted from the best-selling crime novels by Graham Hurley -- about the war on the streets in the port city of Le Havre. Formats: Three-disc DVD, $39.95. (MHz Home Entertainment).
photo for The Carol Burnett Show: Christmas With Carol The Carol Burnett Show: Christmas With Carol Features two complete holiday episodes from "The Carol Burnett Show": December 21, 1974 and December 18, 1977, as well as an additional hour of bonus sketches such as "Christmas Night Quarrel" with Sid Caesar, "Charwoman: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" with Jonathan Winters and "The Twelve Days After Christmas." Formats: DVD, $12.95. (StarVista Entertainment).
The Capture of Grizzly Adams (1982) Dan Haggerty, Chuck Connors, June Lockhart, G.W. Bailey. Dove Foundation approved made-for-TV family film follows the wilderness-loving mountain man Grizzly Adams as he seeks to clear himself of a wrongful murder charge and rescue his daughter, who may be sent to an orphanage. Formats: DVD. (CBS/Paramount).
photo for Chief Wilson Chief Wilson (2013) The latest title in the popular pre-school "Chuggington" animated train series. Features the episodes "Chief Wilson" and "Stop Koko Stop" from the new television season, as well as "Magnetic Wilson," "Wilson's Wacky Tour," "Chugger of the Year" and "Undercover Action Chugger," plus a bonus Badge Quest episode, "Chug Patrol." Formats: DVD, $14.98. (Anchor Bay). CLEAR=ALL>
City Lights (1931) The most cherished film by Charlie Chaplin is also his ultimate Little Tramp chronicle. The writer-director-star achieved new levels of grace, in both physical comedy and dramatic poignancy, with this silent tale of a lovable vagrant falling for a young blind woman who sells flowers on the street (a magical Virginia Cherrill) and mistakes him for a millionaire. Though this Depression-era smash was made after the advent of sound, Chaplin remained steadfast in his love for the expressive beauty of the pre-talkie form. The result was the epitome of his art and the crowning achievement of silent comedy. New, restored 4K digital film transfer, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray. Formats: Blu-ray/DVD Combo. Extras: Commentary by Charlie Chaplin biographer Jeffrey Vance; "Chaplin Today: City Lights," a 2003 documentary on the film's production, featuring Aardman Animations cofounder Peter Lord; "Chaplin Studios: Creative Freedom by Design," a new interview program featuring visual effects expert Craig Barron, archival footage from the production of "City Lights," including film from the set, with audio commentary by Chaplin historian Hooman Mehran, a costume test, a rehearsal and a complete scene not used in the film; excerpt from Chaplin's short film "The Champion" (1915), along with footage of the director with boxing stars at Chaplin Studios in 1918; trailers; booklet featuring an essay by critic Gary Giddins and a 1966 interview with Chaplin. (The Criterion Collection).
photo for Combat! The Complete Series Combat! The Complete Series (1962-67) The groundbreaking "Combat!" offered a gritty, unflinching look at American soldiers battling on the front lines in Europe during World War II, confronting imposing odds and demonstrating remarkable levels of ingenuity and courage. Vic Morrow and Rick Jason headed a stellar cast in the long-running war drama featuring an incomparable list of guest stars (including Eddie Albert, James Caan, James Coburn, Lee Marvin, Leonard Nimoy, Mickey Rooney, Rip Torn, Robert Duvall, Roddy McDowall, Sal Mineo, Telly Savalas, Bill Bixby, Claude Akins, Dennis Hopper, Ricardo Montalban and Wayne Rogers) as well as top directorial talent. This collection includes all 152 episodes, including the final season in color. Formats: DVD, $229.98. (Image Entertainment).
Dealin' With Idiots (2013) Jeff Garlin, Max Wright, Nia Vardalos, Bob Odenkirk, Gina Gershon, Timothy Olyphant, J.B. Smoove, Jami Gertz. Faced with the absurd competitiveness surrounding his son's youth league baseball team, a famous comedian decides to get to know the colorful parents and coaches better in an attempt to find the inspiration for his next movie. Formats: DVD. (IFC Films).
Dexter: The Complete Final Season (2013) Final 12 episodes of the bone-chilling series. Formats: Four-disc DVD, $57.99; three-disc Blu-ray, $68.99. (Paramount).
photo for Dexter: The Complete Series Collection Dexter: The Complete Series Collection (2006-13) Includes all eight seasons in an collectible recreation of the actual blood slide box used by Dexter Morgan to catalog his victims on the show. Also designed and included specifically for this collection is "Grafix: The Art of Dexter," a collection of photography, fan artwork and iconography and images used in the series' cutting edge promotional campaigns. Finally, fans will enjoy an all-new bonus disc with over three hours of behind-the-scene interviews, featurettes and photo more. This bonus material delves deep into the series and is highlighted by the new documentaries "The Evolution of Dexter Morgan" and "The Code." Amazon.com will also be offering an exclusive complete collection, showcased in sleek, collectible "bust/head" packaging representing an anonymous Dexter kill. Formats: 33-disc DVD, $352.99; 25-disc Blu-ray, $427.99. (Paramount).
East West 101: Series 2 & 3 (2009-11) Australian series about a young detective -- a Muslim in a post-9/11 world where such an identity automatically arouses suspicion and fear -- at the Major Crime Squad in Sydney. The detective and his team work together to solve cases involving people who represent a cross-section of modern Australia while exploring the fear and mistrust that exist between East and West, between Muslim and non-Muslim, whose lives and cultures are irrevocably intertwined. Formats: Three-disc DVD, $39.95. (MHz Home Entertainment).
Fascination Coral Reef: Hunters and the Hunted 3D BLU-RAY (2013) Eat or be eaten ... it's all about survival. This undersea adventure explores the brightly colored reefs, teeming with life and hungry attackers in a struggle between the hunters and the hunted. Surprisingly, the diverse fish confuse some of the attackers -- sharks -- with their vast display of shapes and colors. Also plays in 2D on any Blu-ray player. (Universal).
Frances Ha (2013) Dir.: Noah Baumbach; Greta Gerwig, Mickey Sumner, Michael Esper, Adam Driver, Michael Zegen. Read more about "Frances Ha" in the November Calendar. Formats: Blu-ray/DVD Combo. Extras: Conversation between filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich and the film's co-writer and director, Noah Baumbach; conversation between actor and filmmaker Sarah Polley and the film's co-writer and star, Greta Gerwig; conversation about the look of the film between Baumbach, director of photography Sam Levy, and creative director Pascal Dangin; trailer; booklet featuring an essay by playwright Annie Baker. (The Criterion Collection).
Gettysburg and the Civil War (2013) Box set to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address (November 19, 2013). Includes the documentary "Gettysburg: The Boys in Blue & Gray," which presents the crucial battle of the war as described by the soldiers who took part in it; a 24-page illustrated history of the conflict; and a selection of recreated replica memorabilia, including a map of the Battle of Gettysburg, a map of America which illustrates the extent to which the nation was divided, and an 1863 "call to arms" by Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Formats: DVD, $19.99. (PBS Distribution).
Grabbers (2012 -- UK/Ireland) Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley, Russell Tovey. When an island off the coast of Ireland is invaded by bloodsucking aliens, the townspeople discover that the tentacled creatures are allergic to alcohol -- so getting drunk is the only way to survive. Formats: DVD. (IFC Films).
photo for The Great Hip Hop Hoax The Great Hip Hop Hoax (2013) Californian hip-hop duo Silibil n' Brains were going to be massive. No one knew the pair were really Scottish, with fake American accents and made-up identities. When their promising Scottish rap act was branded "the rapping Proclaimers" by scornful A&Rs, friends Billy and Gavin reinvented themselves as L.A. homeboys, the real deal. The lie was their golden ticket to a dream life. With confessions from the scammers, insight from the music execs they duped and doodle reconstructions, the film charts the roller-coaster story of the highs of the scam and the lows of madness and the personal toll the deception took. A film about truth, lies and the legacy of faking everything in the desperate pursuit of fame. Formats: DVD, $16.95. Extras: (MVD Visual).
Half Brother (2013) Eight episodes of the Swedish TV series that revolves around the life of a family spanning the last half of the 20th century as an un-produced screenwriter searches for his elusive half-brother. Formats: Four-disc DVD, $49.95. (MHz Home Entertainment).
Home Again (2012) Tatyana Ali, Stephan James, Lyriq Bent. Three strangers -- -- a single mother from Toronto, an irresponsible British teen, and a New Yorker trying to escape his criminal past -- are deported to a home they've never known and are forced to start their lives over on the unforgiving streets of Jamaica. Formats: DVD, Digital Extras: (One Village Entertainment).
I Declare War (2012) Gage Munroe, Michael Friend, Aidan Gouveia, Andy Reid, Spencer Howes, Alex Cardillo, Dyson Fyke, Eric Hanson. Armed with nothing more than twigs, their imaginations and a simple set of rules, a group of 12-year-olds engaged in a lively game of "Capture the Flag" in the neighborhood woods start dangerously blurring the lines between make-believe and reality. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Commentary with directors Robert Wilson, Jason Lapeyre and producer Lewin Webb; commentary with Wilson, Lapeyre and the cast; "Building a Battle" featurette; "Soldiers and Actors" featurette; "The Ultimate I Declare War Capture The Flag Paintball Challenge"; trailer; 16-page booklet. (Drafthouse Films).
In Search of Blind Joe Death: The Saga of John Fahey (2013) Known as the father of American Primitive Guitar, John Fahey is considered to be a foundational figure in American folk music. As both musician and musicologist, Fahey made an important contribution to our understanding and appreciation of such music genres as Delta blues, Appalachian bluegrass and New Orleans jazz. This documentary combines interviews, performances and archival footage with animation in a musically charged tribute to a tremendously influential composer, guitarist and provocateur. Interviewees include The Who's Pete Townshend, Chris Funk of The Decemberists and renowned radio personality Dr. Demento. Formats: DVD. Extras: Rare John Fahey performance footage; "John Fahey Speaks: Woodburn Inn, 1999"; performances by Chris Funk, Jimmy Crosthwait, George Winston and others; extended interviews with Pete Townshend, Dean Blackwood and Joe Bussard. (First Run Features).
photo for Ip Man: The Final Fight (2013 -- Hong Kong) Anthony Wong, Eric Tsang, Jordan Chan, Gillian Chung, Marvel Chow, Anita Yuen, Xiong Xin-xin, Wong Cho-lam. Legendary Wing Chun grandmaster Ip Man's later life in Hong Kong as he struggles against the vicissitudes of life: His pursuit of a romance with a young singer after his wife's death (against the wishes of his disciples); his relationship with his elder son; his thoughts on Bruce Lee, who would become his most celebrated student; and challenges from a rival kung fu school that draws him into the dark and dangerous underworld of the Triads. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Making-of featurette, interviews with cast and crew, trailer. (Well Go USA).
JFK 50 Year Commemorative Ultimate Collector's Edition Blu-ray Blu-ray edition of the 1991 film starring Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, Kevin Bacon, Gary Oldman, Sissy Spacek, Jack Lemmon, Joe Pesci, Donald Sutherland, Laurie Metcalf, John Candy, Walter Matthau, Sally Kirkland and Edward Asner. Set includes three captivating documentaries: Oliver Stone's "JFK: To the Brink," the insightful look at the JFK presidency that was included in his photo for JFK 50th Commemorative Ultimate Collector's Edition Blu-ray 2012 Showtime Series, "The Untold History of the United States"; the brand-new "JFK Remembered: 50 Years Later" from filmmaker Robert Kline; and "John F. Kennedy: Years of Lightning, Day of Drums," a documentary produced by George Stevens Jr. and written and directed by Bruce Herschensohn, who also composed the music. In addition, the "JFK UCE" includes the feature film drama "PT 109" (1963, starring Cliff Robertson), about Kennedy's World War II experiences as a skipper in the South Pacific. The "JFK UCE" also contains commemorative items from the Kennedy Presidential Library: collectible reproductions of family and presidential photos, a campaign poster from the 1960 presidential campaign, and a copy of Kennedy's historic inaugural address. Lastly, there's a 32-page book of famous quotations, and a 44-page JFK movie photo book. "JFK" Extras: "Behind the Story," commentary by director Oliver Stone, "Beyond JFK: The Question of Conspiracy," multimedia essays, "Assassination Update -- The New Documents," "Meet Mr. X: The Personality and Thoughts of Fletcher Prouty," deleted/extended scenes, theatrical trailer. $49.00. Order it now for $38.99 at Amazon. (Warner).
JFK Remembered: 50 Years Later (2013) Robert Kline documentary offers images and personalities frozen in time: From Kennedy's nomination at the 1960 Democratic Convention in Los Angeles to his election on November 8, 1960; from his inspiring inaugural address to the Bay of Pigs; from civil rights struggles to space exploration; from the Berlin Wall appearance to his leadership during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Part of the "JFK 50 Year Commemorative Ultimate Collector's Edition" Blu-ray set. Formats: DVD, $5.94. (Warner).
John F. Kennedy: Years of Lightning, Day of Drums The noted 1964 documentary -- produced by George Stevens Jr., written, directed and scored by Bruce Herschensohn, and narrated by Gregory Peck -- about the fallen president's thousand days in office has been meticulously restored and remastered as part of the "JFK 50 Year Commemorative Ultimate Collector's Edition" Blu-ray set; available separately on DVD. Formats: DVD, $11.97. (Warner).
photo for John Carpenter Presents Body Bags Collector's Edition John Carpenter Presents Body Bags Collector's Edition (1993) John Carpenter plays a creepy-looking coroner who introduces a trilogy of blood-curdling tales (directed by himself and Tobe Hooper): "The Gas Station" (starring Robert Carradine and Alex Datcher), "Hair" (starring Stacy Keach), and "Eye" (directed by Tobe Hooper, and starring Mark Hamill). Young college student Anne (Datcher) works the late shift at "The Gas Station" while a killer is on the loose. Middle-aged business man Richard Coberts (Keach) can't stand the thought of losing his "Hair" and he'll do anything to keep it. Brent Matthews (Hamill), a baseball player, submits to an "Eye" transplant after he loses an eye in a car accident. After going through the revolutionary eye surgery, he ends up getting more than just his eyesight back. With special appearances by Deborah Harry, Sheena Easton, Twiggy, David Naughton, John Agar, David Warner and cameos by notable horror film legends Wes Craven, Hooper, Sam Raimi, Roger Corman and Greg Nicotero. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo. Extras: Commentary with Carpenter and actor Robert Carradine on "The Gas Station"; commentary with Carpenter and actor Stacy Keach on "Hair"; commentary with producer Sandy King on "Eye"; "Unzipping Body Bags" featurette with Carpenter, King, Keach and Carradine; trailer. (Scream factory/Shout! Factory).
The Lion of the Desert BLU-RAY DEBUT (1981) Anthony Quinn, Rod Steiger, Oliver Reed, John Gielgud, Raf Vallone, Irene Papas. (Anchor Bay).
photo for MADtv: Season Four MADtv: Season Four (1998-99) Four-disc set with 25 episodes, $29.93. Primetime Emmy-winning series "MADtv" -- a late night sketch-comedy show based on the humor of MAD magazine -- was one of the top-rated late-night comedy staples in the 1990s and ran on Fox for 14 seasons. This fast-paced and irreverent sketch comedy series is well-known for its outrageous movie and television parodies, cutting political satires, commercial and music video spoofs, social commentary and pop culture send-ups. In this season, guest hosts Vivica A. Fox, Shaquille O'Neal, Keri Russell, Jerry Springer and others joined in with the ensemble to mock some of the year's most popular movies, stars and politicians. Formats: DVD. (Shout! Factory).
Man of Steel (2013) Dir.: Zack Snyder; Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Diane Lane, Kevin Costner, Russell Crowe, Julia Ormond, Antje Traue, Harry Lennix, Christopher Meloni, Laurence Fishburne. Read more about "Man of Steel" in the November Calendar. Formats:Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD 2-disc Special Edition, 3D Limited Collector's Edition (includes a limited release metal "S" glyph with lucite glass stand), Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: "Strong Characters, Legendary Roles" featurette explores the legendary characters of the Superman mythology and how they have evolved in this new iteration of the Superman story; "All-Out Action" goes inside the intense training regimen that sculpted Henry Cavill into the Man of Steel and Michael Shannon and Antje Traue into his Kyptonian nemeses; "Krypton Decoded" lowdown on all the amazing Krypton tech, weapons and spaceships. Blu-ray adds "Journey of Discovery: Creating Man of Steel" immersive feature-length experience that allows viewers to watch the movie with director Zack Snyder and stars Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Diane Lane and others as they share the incredible journey to re-imagine Superman; "Planet Krypton" exploration of Krypton and its lost society. (Warner).
The Message BLU-RAY DEBUT (1977) Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas, Michael Ansara. (Anchor Bay).
photo for Mumfie's White Christmas Mumfie's White Christmas (1995) First release from the series "Britt Allcroft's Magic Adventures of Mumfie," about a special little elephant who sets off to find adventure, meeting new friends Scarecrow and Pinkey the flying pig along the way. Here Mumfie, Scarecrow and Pinkey mount a quest across sea and snow to ask Santa for a wintery white Christmas. (Britt Allcroft is creator of the award winning children's television shows "Thomas and Friends" and "Shining Time Station.") Formats: DVD, $9.98; VOD; Digital. (Lionsgate).
The Naughty List (2013) Voices of Matthew Lillard, Drake Bell, Sean Astin, Kyle Chandler, Naya Rivera. After two young elves give Santa and the North Pole food poisoning they must redeem their Naughty List status by finding a way to save Christmas. Formats: DVD, VOD. (ARC Entertainment).
Nosferatu BLU-RAY DEBUT (1922) F.W. Murnau's "Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror" is resurrected in an HD edition mastered from the acclaimed 35mm restoration by the Friedrich-Wilhelm-Murnau-Stiftung, backed by an orchestral performance of Hans Erdmann's 1922 score. An unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker's "Dracula," "Nosferatu" remains to many viewers the most unsettling vampire film ever made, and its bald, spidery vampire, personified by the diabolical Max Schreck, continues to spawn imitations in the realm of contemporary cinema. Extras: "The Language of Shadows" (2007), a 52-minute documentary on F.W. Murnau. (Kino Lorber).
Ocean Predators 3D BLU-RAY (2013) Documentary takes a look at an underwater world of dangerous predators with razor-sharp teeth and unveils the mysteries surrounding sharks, barracudas and moray eels. Also plays in 2D on any Blu-ray player. (Universal).
Paradise (2013) Dir.: Diablo Cody; Julianne Hough, Octavia Spencer, Russell Brand, Holly Hunter, Nick Offerman. After surviving a plane crash and coming into a big, fat insurance payout, a young conservative woman suffers a crisis of faith and heads out to Las Vegas with a checklist of untried sins for a comedic and oddball odyssey of lost souls, broken faith and cheap cocktails. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. (Image Entertainment).
Polar Bears: Ice Bear 3D BLU-RAY (2013) The Polar Bear is the Arctic's biggest predator ... but what happens to the "Ice Bear" when there's no ice? This documentary features breathtaking 3D cinematography shot over 12 months in the Canadian Arctic, capturing rarely-seen behavior for an enthralling and captivating look at the bear's changing world. Also plays in 2D on any Blu-ray player. (Universal).
Prince Avalanche (2013) Paul Rudd, Emile Hirsch. Offbeat buddy comedy about an odd couple of sorts, the introspective and stern Alvin and his girlfriend's brother, Lance, dopey and insecure, who leave the city behind to spend the summer of 1988 repainting traffic lines on a desolate country highway that's been ravaged by wildfire. The isolated landscape becomes a place of misadventure as the men find themselves at odds with each other and the women they left behind, but eventually they develop an unlikely friendship. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: AXS TV: "A Look at Prince Avalanche," theatrical trailer. (Magnolia Home Entertainment).
photo for Stan Lee's Superhumans -- Season Two Stan Lee's Superhumans -- Season Two (2011) Four-disc set, $24.98. Co-hosted by comic book maven Stan Lee, the series scours the globe for the real-life counterparts of Lee's characters -- people with unique genetic traits that translate into remarkable powers. These include a Shaolin monk with an unbreakable body, a man who may be the greatest jumper in the world and another who can control sharks. Formats: DVD. Extras: Thirteen additional scenes. (Lionsgate).
Turbo (2013) Voices of Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson, Maya Rudolph, Snoop Dogg, Ken Jeong, Ben Schwartz, Paul Giamatti, Michael Pena, Luis Guzman, Bill Hader, Richard Jenkins Read more about "Turbo" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, 3D Blu-ray/Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). (DreamWorks/Fox).



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November 19

American Experience: JFK (2013) Forever enshrined in myth by an assassin's bullet on November 22, 1963, John F. Kennedy's presidency has often defied objective appraisal. This new portrait, part of the Peabody Award-winning American Experience series, "The Presidents," offers a fresh assessment of the man, his accomplishments and his unfulfilled promise. Produced and directed by Susan Bellows, "JFK" features interviews with Kennedy family members and historians including Robert Dallek, Robert Caro, and Evan Thomas. Formats: Two-disc DVD, two-disc Blu-ray, Digital. (PBS Distribution).
photo for And While We Were Here And While We Were Here (2012) Kate Bosworth, Iddo Goldberg, Jamie Blackley, Claire Bloom. A young American writer finds herself at a personal and professional crossroads when she accompanies her musician husband to his concert on an island off the picturesque Amalfi Coast. While adapting her grandmother's WWII stories into a book, she stumbles into a passionate and playful affair with a much younger man. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Original B&W director's version, trailer. (Well Go USA).
Assault on Precinct 13 Collector's Edition BLU-RAY DEBUT (1976) Dir.: John Carpenter; Austin Stoker, Darwin Joston, Laurie Zimmer. Isolated and cut off from the city inside a soon-to-be-closed L.A. police station, a group of police officers and convicts must join forces to defend themselves against the gang called Street Thunder, who have taken a blood oath to kill someone trapped inside the precinct. Extras: Commentary with writer-director John Carpenter; commentary with art director and sound effects editor Tommy Lee Wallace; interview with actress Nancy Loomis Kyes; interview with actor Austin Stoker; interview with Carpenter and Stoker; trailer; radio spots. (Scream factory/Shout! Factory).
Breaking the Girls (2013) Agnes Bruckner, Madeline Zima, Shawn Ashmore, Shanna Collins, Kate Levering. A "Strangers on a Train"-like pact goes awry when a college student finds herself framed for the murder of a classmate who slandered her -- a murder committed by the woman who initially proposed the perfect, untraceable crime. Formats: DVD. (IFC Midnight Films).
Bridegroom (2013) Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, the Emmy-nominated creator of TV hits "Designing Women" and "Evening Shade," tells a remarkable and moving real-life story. On May 7, 2011, a young man named Shane Bitney Crone tragically lost the love of his life, the ironically named Tom Bridegroom, to an accident. Because they weren't married (and despite the partners having been together for six years), Shane had no legal claim to Tom after he died. Tom's family banned Shane from the funeral, he was unable to say goodbye to his love, and he received no survivor benefits. On May 7, 2012, the first anniversary of Tom's death, Shane posted a video on YouTube titled "It Could Happen to You." He created it to honor his partner and show the world what can happen when two people committed to each other are legally barred from the rights and protections afforded by marriage. The video went viral, ultimately receiving over 2 million views on YouTube and inspiring thousands of emails and comments on YouTube and Facebook, including heartfelt reactions from such celebrities as Neil Patrick Harris, Fran Drescher and Denise Richards. Bloodworth-Thomason's film, which includes interviews, and photos and video footage of Shane and Tom, sheds light on the struggles that same-sex couples face due to marriage inequality. Formats: DVD. (Virgil Films).
Caesar & Otto's Deadly Xmas (2012) Linnea Quigley, Brinke Stevens, Felissa Rose, Joe Estevez, Deron Miller, Robert Z'dar, Debbie Rochon. Caesar and his half-brother Otto take on duties as Santa and his elf. However, the bodies begin to pile up when a fellow store Santa develops a vendetta against them, and he turns Caesar's list of dinner guests into a list of Xmas-inspired victims. Formats: DVD. Extras: Three commentary tracks (director, cast/crew, actors), behind-the-scenes featurette, alternate scenes, three short films: "Piggyzilla," "Otto's First Job," "The Perfect Candidate," trailers. (Wild Eye Releasing/MVD Entertainment).
Crystal Fairy (2013) Michael Cera, Gaby Hoffman. A boorish American twentysomething traveling in Chile, who somehow manages to create chaos at every turn, coaxes three Chilean brothers into accompanying him on a road trip north to experience a legendary shamanistic hallucinogen called the San Pedro cactus. When he invites an eccentric woman to join the group's quest, the devil-may-care journey becomes a battle of wills as he finds himself locking horns with his new traveling companion ... until they drink the magic brew on a beach at the edge of the desert. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. (IFC Films).
Danguard Ace: The Movie Collection (2010) Two-disc set of the Japanese anime about a transforming robot/space ship and an evil scientist and his robots who fight over control of a new planet in the solar system. Formats: DVD, $19.97. (Shout! Factory).
Danger in the Manger (2012) David Tennant, Marc Wootton, Jason Watkins. Family film about a worried new teacher who has to juggle a pregnant wife and a class of children on a road trip to the national "Song for Christmas" competition. Formats: DVD, VOD. (Inception Media Group).
The Day Kennedy Died (2013) Narrated by Kevin Spacey, this Smithsonian Channel documentary tells the story of the tragic day 50 years ago, when president John F. Kennedy was assassinated, through the memories of people who played a part in those extraordinary events -- from the journalist who was with the Kennedy family all day to the nurse who checked his vital signs at the hospital. These never-before-seen interviews, along with rarely shown photos and video footage, piece together the final moments of JFK. Formats: DVD, $14.98. (Inception Media Group).
Diagnosis Murder: The Complete Series (1993-2001) Fifty-one disc set with all eight seasons, $279.99. Formats: DVD. Extras: Includes the three original TV pilot movies (shot in British Columbia) and two reunion TV films as well as a bonus episode of the detective series "Mannix." (Visual Entertainment).
Eve of Destruction (1991) Gregory Hines, Renee Soutendijk, Michael Greene. Created in the image of her inventor, Eve VIII, a sophisticated and deadly android, is the flawless culmination of years of research but when an unexpected mishap during testing sends her into a sudden, irreversible rampage, Eve begins stalking and killing anything she perceives as a threat. It's up to terrorism expert Jim McQuade (Gregory Hines) to find and deactivate her before she realizes her ultimate capability: nuclear annihilation. Formats: Blu-ray/DVD Combo. (Shout! Factory).
photo for Here's Edie: The Edie Adams Television Collection Here's Edie: The Edie Adams Television Collection More than 50 years after it premiered on the ABC network, the variety shows "Here's Edie" and "The Edie Adams Show" (www.edieadams.com) hit DVD and digital formats. This is the first time either television show has been seen in any format since their original broadcasts in 1962-1964. Unlike any variety show before or since, "Here's Edie" was a tour-de-force for a female entertainer in the early-1960s. After the sudden passing of her husband Ernie Kovacs in January 1962, Adams forged ahead with her own headlining show, showcasing her many talents. Adams hosts, sings, dances, acts, does comedy, takes an uncredited role of costumer Enke and also produces her own show. While much has been said of Adams' preservation efforts of the Ernie Kovacs archive, she also left behind a stunning body of her own work that survives due only to her indefatigable preservation efforts. The "wow" factor of this box set resides in the eclectic guest stars Adams was personally able to secure for the show. Jazz fans will be able to see rare performance footage of such giants as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Stan Getz, Lionel Hampton, Woody Herman and Al Hirt, among others. Popular photo for Here's Edie: The Edie Adams Television Collection vocalists include Sammy Davis Jr., Bobby Darin, Johnny Mathis and more. Comedians include Bob Hope, Rowan & Martin, Soupy Sales along with Buddy Hackett, Dick Shawn and Terry-Thomas, who co-starred with Adams in the classic motion-picture "It's A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" (1963). Classical music fans can look forward to performances of Andrew Previn, Lauritz Melchoir and Laurindo Almeida. Additional guests include Allan Sherman, Spike Jones, Peter Falk, Sir Michael Redgrave, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Buddy Hackett and more.

This 12-hour, four DVD set features a new digital transfer from original 2-inch videotapes of the entire 1962-64 run of 21 episodes (with her famed Muriel Cigar commercials intact), plus extensive bonus footage. This material includes rarely seen Adams musical numbers from numerous Ernie Kovacs shows of the 1950's with introductions from Kovacs himself. Other bonus features include a set of commercial promos by Adams and another "Mad World" co-star, Sid Caesar (whose "The Sid Caesar Show" alternated weeks with Edie's shows), a Muriel Cigars promotional film and more. Also included is a 16-page booklet packed with rare photos from the family archive, an essay from Edie's son, Joshua Mills, and a show-by-show rundown from Ernie Kovacs and Edie Adams curator and DVD co-producer Ben Model. $49.95. (MVD Entertainment).

I Am Zozo (2012) Kelly McLaren, Courtney Foxworthy, Demetrius Sager, Caleb DeBattista, Caleb Courtney, Darren Wayne Evans. Psychological thriller about five young people who play with a Ouija board on Halloween and attract the attention of a malevolent demon. Formats: DVD, VOD. (Image Entertainment).
photo for Informant Informant (2012) A powerful and timely portrait of Brandon Darby, a left-wing activist turned FBI informant and then Tea Party conservative whose actions led to the arrest of two protesters at the 2008 Republican National Convention. In 2005, Texas-born Darby became an overnight hero when he traveled to Katrina-devastated New Orleans and braved toxic floodwaters to rescue a friend stranded in the Ninth Ward. Soon after, he became a co-founder and spokesperson for Common Ground, a successful grassroots relief organization. But over the next few years, he began hiding a shocking secret. After two young protestors, David McKay and Bradley Crowder, were arrested at the 2008 Republican National Convention, Darby revealed he had been instrumental in the indictment as an FBI informant. Today, having renounced his left-wing past, Darby is a Tea Party member who writes regularly for the right-leaning website Breitbart.com. Formats: DVD. (Music Box Films).
JFK: One PM Central Standard Time (2013) PBS program recounts the riveting story of the reporting from Dallas, Texas and the CBS Newsroom in New York by Walter Cronkite from the moment President Kennedy was shot on Nov. 22, 1963, until newscaster's emotional pronouncement of his death at 1 p.m. CST. The program features interviews with President Bill Clinton and NBC Nightly News anchor and managing editor Brian Williams; rarely seen archival footage of Kennedy and Cronkite; and moving memories from the producers, writers and reporters who were there on that day. Formats: DVD, $24.99; Digital. (PBS Distribution).
Merry Christmas, Splat ... And More Winter Stories (2013) Four holiday story delights: "Merry Christmas, Splat," "Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas," "Snowflake Bentley" and "Owl Moon." Formats: DVD, $14.95. Extras: Read-along function, behind-the-scenes look at creating the animation for "Fletcher." (Scholastic Storybook Treasures).
The Mod Squad: The Complete Collection (1968-73) Thirty-nine disc set, $219.95. While most popular shows of the era focused on the ideal American family (moms wearing pearls and baking cookies) or society's mainstream heroes (mostly White, macho men), ABC's "The Mod Squad" broke the mold. While solving crimes, apprehending photo for The Mod Squad: The Complete Collection heinous criminals and addressing social injustice, the youthful investigators -- Julie (Peggy Lipton), Pete (Michael Cole) and Linc (Clarence Williams III) -- fairly oozed cool. Not only were they counter-culture, but a female and an African-American protagonist made for ground-breaking TV. "One White, One Black, One Blonde" was the network's promo line, targeting a youthful audience. Offered work fighting crime as an alternative to being incarcerated themselves, The Mod Squad's three cops utilized their youthful, hippie personas as a guise to get close to the criminals they investigated. Being of the flower-child era, they didn't carry guns (or make the ultimate arrests), but instead wore beads and mod clothing, peppering their dialogue with slang of the day -- like "groovy," "keep the faith" and "solid" -- all backed by a rock 'n' roll soundtrack. The show portrayed a multi-cultural society, dealing with such controversial issues as racial politics, drug culture, anti-war sentiment, soldiers returning from war, student unrest, abortion, spousal abuse, child neglect, illiteracy and slum lords ... all radical subject matter for TV at the time. Produced by Aaron Spelling and Danny Thomas. Formats: DVD. Extras: "Forming the Squad," "Inside the Teeth of the Barracuda: 1968," "Friends of The Mod Squad" and "Hello, My Name is Julie: The Mod Look" featurettes. (Visual Entertainment).
MOMO: The Sam Giancana Story (2013) Details the life of a tough, impoverished kid who rose through the ranks of Chicago's underworld to become a top member -- ­many say the real godfather -- ­of the most ruthless gangland organization in the country: The Outfit. The film provides new evidence and insight into Giancana's connections with the Kennedy family -- how he delivered three states to ensure JFK's election and later personally arranged for the president's assassination. Featuring never-before-seen home videos shot by Giancana himself, the film also exposes Giancan's affair with Marilyn Monroe and potential role in her death, as well as his participation in a covert CIA plan to take down Castro in Cuba. It also showcases the Giancana daughters -- Bonnie Giancana and Fran Giancana -- speaking about their father publicly for the first time in 30 years. Formats: DVD, Digital. (Synergetic Distribution/The G-Machine).
My Little Pony -- Friendship Is Magic: A Pony For Every Season (2013) Each member of the Mane 6 -- Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Apple Jack and Pinkie Pie -- gets her very own opportunity to shine with six episodes from the HUB TV Network show. Formats: DVD. Extras: Sing-Along. (Shout! Factory Kids).
photo for >Night of the Comet Collector's Edition BLU-RAY DEBUT Night of the Comet Collector's Edition BLU-RAY DEBUT (1984) Dir.: Thom E. Eberhardt; Robert Beltran, Catherine Mary Stewart, Kelli Maroney, Sharon Farrell, Mary Wornov, Geoffrey Lewis. A comet wipes out most of life on Earth, leaving two Valley Girls to fight the evil types (killer zombies and blood-seeking scientists) who survive. But first they do what all good Valley Girls do ... they go shopping. Extras: Commentary with writer-director Thom Eberhardt, commentary with stars Kelli Maroney and Catherine Mary Stewart; commentary with production designer John Muto; "Valley Girls at the End of the World" interviews with Maroney and Stewart; "The Last Man On Earth?" interview with Robert Beltran; "Curse of the Comet" interview with special make-up effects creator David B. Miller; still galleries (behind the scenes and official stills); theatrical trailer. (Scream Factory/Shout! Factory).
Paranoia (2013) Liam Hemsworth, Gary Oldman, Harrison Ford, Amber Heard, Josh Holloway, Embeth Davidtz, Richard Dreyfuss, Lucas Till. Read more about "Paranoia" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Deleted scenes, "Privacy Is Dead" featurette, "The Paranoia Begins" production featurette, "The Players" behind the scenes featurette, theatrical trailer. (Fox).
Planes (2013) Voices of Dane Cook, Val Kilmer, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Brad Garrett, John Cleese, Teri Hatcher, Anthony Edwards, Priyanka Chopa, Stacy Keach, Sinbad, Cedric the Entertainer, Carlos Alazraqui, Roger Craig Smith. Read more about "Planes" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, 3D Blu-ray/Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital. Extras: "Klay's Flight Plan," a behind-the-scenes featurette that follows director Klay Hall's personal journey during the making of the film, including his family connection to aviation; "Meet the Racers" featurettes introducing racers El Chupacabra, Ripslinger, Dusty and Ishani. "Franz's Song," never-before-seen completely finished animated song that features the German mini-car, Franz Fliegenhosen, who encourages Dusty on his flight; deleted scenes; "Top 10 Flyers," a look at the 10 greatest aviators in history hosted by ESPN's Colin Cowherd. (Disney).
photo for Primitive (2011) Reggie Bannister, Matt O'Neill, Kristin Lorenz, Jeff Ryan. When special effects artist Martin Blaine and hypnotist Dr. William Stein unknowingly conjure up a blood-thirsty predator, Martin must confront the inner demon they brought to life before it rips apart everyone he's ever known. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Commentary, "Deconstructing the Special Effects of Primitive" featurette, cast interviews, outtakes. (Lionsgate).
Sanguivorous (2011 -- Japan) The first Japanese avant-garde, silent vampire movie ever made. The film focuses on a young woman suffering from mysterious physical ailments who's horrified to discover that she's descended from generations of vampires. When with her boyfriend, she struggles to control her peculiar appetite. But it's in her blood. Written and directed by Japanese filmmaker Naoki Yoshimoto and featuring the renowned avant-garde butoh dancer Ko Murobushi. Co-stars Masaya Adachi, Ayumi Kakizawa, Ko Murobushi, Mutsuko Yoshinag. Formats: DVD VOD Extras: (Tidepoint Pictures/MVD Entertainment Group).
Schooled: The Price of College Sports (2013) A comprehensive look at the business, history and culture of big-time college football and basketball in America. It is an adaptation of "The Cartel" by Pulitzer Prize Winning civil rights scholar Taylor Branch, and his Atlantic Monthly article, "The Shame of College Sports." The documentary presents a hard-hitting examination of the NCAA's treatment of its athletes and amateurism in collegiate athletics; weaving interviews, archival and verite footage to tell a story of how college sports became a billion dollar industry built on the backs of athletes who are deprived of numerous rights. Includes interviews with Houston Texans' running back Arian Foster, Emmy-winning sportscaster Bob Costas, ESPN analyst Jay Bilas, The New York Times' Joe Nocera, Sports Illustrated's Frank Deford and Michael Rosenberg. Formats: DVD. (Strand Releasing).
Star Trek: The Next Generation: Season 5 BLU-RAY DEBUT (1991-92) Six-disc set with 26 episodes, $129.99. Set in the 24th century, the exploits of the U.S.S. Enterprise continue with some of the most memorable episodes of the series, including Paul Winfield's guest appearance as Dathon and Ashley Judd's debut performance in the episode, "Darmok." The set also includes the jaw-dropping opening scene portraying the destruction of the Enterprise in "Cause and Effect," and "The Inner Light," the critically acclaimed episode that garnered the series its first Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. In addition to all-new photo for Star Trek: The Next Generation: Season 5 BLU-RAY DEBUT commentary tracks on select episodes with some of the franchise's most notable names, deleted scenes and a gag reel, the high-definition collection includes the newly produced featurette, "Requiem: A Remembrance of Star Trek: The Next Generation." This two-part documentary explores the making of the series' fifth season and focuses on the effect the passing of creator Gene Roddenberry, which took place halfway through the season, had on the show as well as the production family. The tribute to the late creator includes key cast and crew members sharing their favorite memories of working with Roddenberry and bidding farewell to the Great Bird of the Galaxy. Also includes the epic two-part episode "Unification" (which has been spun off as a separate disc, see below) in which Capt. Picard (Patrick Stewart) pursues Ambassador Spock (Leonard Nimoy) into enemy Romulan territory on a heroic mission in an attempt to unify the Vulcans and the Romulans. Extras: Episodic promos, "Archive Mission Log: Mission Overview Year Five," "Archive Mission Log: Departmental Briefing Year Five Production," "Archive Mission Log: Departmental Briefing Year Five Visual Effects," "Archive Mission Log: Memorable Missions," commentaries, deleted scenes, "Archive Mission Log: A Tribute to Gene Roddenberry," "Archive Mission Log: Intergalactic Guest Stars," "Archive Mission Log: Alien Speak," "In Conversation: The Music of Star Trek: The Next Generation," "Requiem: A photo for Star Trek: The Next Generation: Unification BLU-RAY Remembrance of Star Trek: The Next Generation -- Part One: The Needs of the Many," "Requiem: A Remembrance of Star Trek: The Next Generation -- Part Two: The Needs of the Few," gag reel,(CBS/Paramount).
Star Trek: The Next Generation: Unification BLU-RAY (1992) Feature-length presentation of the fan-favorite, two-part epic adventure from the series' fifth season. Over 25 million viewers tuned into the original airing of the episode, making it one of the most-watched of all seven seasons of the series. In the episode, Leonard Nimoy reprises his iconic role as Spock as both he and Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) venture on a heroic mission in an attempt to unify the Vulcans and the Romulans. Extras: Commentary, deleted scene, "From One Generation to the Next" new featurette that takes a behind-the-scenes look at the making of two-part episode and the introduction of Spock to the 24th century saga of the hit series. $24.99. (CBS/Paramount).
photo for Therese Therese (2013 -- France) Dir.: Claude Miller; Audrey Tautou, Gilles Lellouche, Anais Demoustier. A newly married woman realizes a loveless life awaits her in this adaptation of the classic French novel by Francois Mauriac. In the pine-forested Landes region in southwest France, young Therese (Tautou) has married wealthy but arrogant Bernard Desqueyroux (Lellouche) and is now part of the oppressively traditionalist Desqueyroux family. Although able to live in the lap of luxury, she soon realizes that her role is to be forever subservient to Bernard and act as little more than his accessory. When her best friend (and Bernard's younger sister) Anna (Demoustier) falls madly in love with a handsome young Jewish man, Therese finds her own needs changing and soon sets out to free herself from the provincial conventions that threaten to keep her forever repressed. Formats: DVD. (MPI Home Video).
The To Do List (2013) Aubrey Plaza, Andy Samberg, Clark Gregg, Connie Britton, Donald Glover, Rachel Bilson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse Read more about "The To Do List" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Commentary with director Maggie Carey and star Bill Hader; "Maggie Carey: Directing the To-Do List" behind-the-scenes featuretter; "Dirty Mouth," a feqaturette highlighting every naughty word or phrase in the film in one raunchy montage; delted scenes; "The Re-do List" (gag reel). (CBS Films/Sony).
Tokyo Story (1953) A profoundly stirring evocation of elemental humanity and universal heartbreak, "Tokyo Story" is the crowning achievement of the unparalleled Yasujiro Ozu. The film, which follows an aging couple as they leave their rural village to visit their two married children in bustling postwar Tokyo, surveys the rich and complex world of family life with the director's customary delicacy and incisive perspective on social mores. Featuring lovely performances from Ozu regulars Chishu Ryu and Setsuko Hara, "Tokyo Story" plumbs and deepens the director's recurring themes of generational conflict, creating what is without question one of cinema's mightiest masterpieces. New 4K digital restoration, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray. Formats: Blu-ray/DVD Dual Format Edition. Extras: Commentary featuring Yasujiro Ozu scholar David Desser, editor of Ozu's "Tokyo Story"; "I Lived, But ...", a two-hour documentary from 1953 about Ozu's life and career, featuring interviews with critics and former cast and photo for Touched By an Angel: The Ninth & Final Season crew members; "Talking With Ozu," a 40-minute tribute to the director from 1993, featuring the reflections of filmmakers Lindsay Anderson, Claire Denis, Hou Hsiao-hsien, Aki Kaurismaki, Stanley Kwan, Paul Schrader and Wim Wenders; trailer; booklet featuring an essay by critic David Bordwell. (The Criterion Collection).
Touched By an Angel: The Ninth & Final Season (2002-03) As the critically acclaimed and inspirational series comes to its conclusion, earthbound angel Monica (Roma Downey) is up for a promotion to supervisor, but is faced with her greatest challenge yet. As she wrestles with a life-changing decision, she learns the true meaning of God's message of sacrifice. The series also stars Della Reese, John Dye and Valerie Bertinelli. Six-disc set with 22 episodes, $61.99. Formats: DVD. (CBS/Paramount).
Treme: The Complete Third Season (2012) Four-disc set with 10 episodes. Two years have passed since Hurricane Katrina ravaged the city. From musicians and chefs to businessmen and bartenders, everyone is struggling to piece their lives back together, but are facing new challenges every day. In addition to the ensemble cast of Wendell Pierce, Khandi Alexander, Clarke Peters, Rob Brown, Steve Zahn, Kim Dickens, Melissa Leo, Lucia Micarelli, Michiel Huisman, David Morse, Jon Seda, India Ennenga, and Chris Coy, photo for Treme: The Complete Third Season Season 3 features live performances and cameos from notable New Orleans legends including The Neville Brothers, Fats Domino, Tab Benoit, Dr. Michael White, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Sonny Landreth, The Red Stick Ramblers, Monk Boudreaux, James "Sugarboy" Crawford and Davell Crawford, Kermit Ruffins, John Boutte, The Hot 8 Brass Band, Anders Osborne, Tom McDermott, Marcia Ball, Meschiya Lake, Ivan Neville, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews, Glen David Andrews, Donald Harrison, Jr. and The Valparaiso Men's Chorus, among other. Formats: DVD, $39.99; Blu-ray Disc, $49.99; Digital. Extras: Three "Behind Treme" featurettes: "Chef Dinner," "David Simon" and "Neville Brothers"; "The Music of Treme"; music commentaries on all 10 episodes with WBGO's Josh Jackson and NPR Music's Patrick Jarenwattananon; audio commentaries; episode previews and recaps. Blu-ray adds "Down in the Treme," a look at the music and culture of New Orleans configured as an in-episode viewing mode. (HBO).
The Twilight Zone: The Complete Series (1959-64) All 156 episodes of Rod Serling's classic, groundbreaking series in one box set. Travel to another dimension of sight and sound again and again with Rod Serling and guest stars Art Carney, Burgess Meredith, Cliff Robertson, Dennis Hopper, Bill Bixby, Leonard Nimoy, Burt Reynolds, Don Rickles, Jack Klugman, Robert Redford, Lee Marvin, Martin Landau, Telly Savalas, William Shatner and many more. Formats: Twenty-five DVDs, $169.98. (Image Entertainment).
2 Guns (2013) Denzel Washington, Mark Wahlberg, Paula Patton, Bill Paxton, Fred Ward, James Marsden, Edward James Olmos. Read more about "2 Guns" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Deleted and extended scenes, "Undercover and Into Action" featurette, commentary with director Baltasar Kormakur and producer Adam Siegel. Blu-ray adds "The Good, the Bad and the Sexy," "Finding the Vibe," "Living Dangerously" featurettes. (Universal).
photo for The Ultimate Three Flavors Cornetto Trilogy The Ultimate Three Flavors Cornetto Trilogy Three-disc set with the three Simon Pegg-Nick Frost-Edgar Wright collaborations: "The World's End," "Hot Fuzz," "Shaun of the Dead." Formats: DVD, $39.98; Blu-ray Disc, $49.98. Extras: All the bonus features from all three films. The Blu-ray version adds interactive screenplays for all three films. (Universal).
The Vivien Leigh Anniversary Collection (2013) Four-disc set celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Oscar winner's birth with remastered editions of four classics -- restored and digitally remastered in collaboration with the British Film Institute -- made in England that helped lead David O. Selznick to reward her with the most coveted role in movie history: Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone With the Wind." The titles: "Fire Over England" (1937), "Dark Journey" (1937), "Storm in a Teacup" (1937) and "St. Martin's Lane" (1938). Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. Extras: Featurette with Leigh biographer Anne Edwards, a 16-page booklet with a new essay by Leigh biographer Kendra Bean, and original theatrical trailers. (Cohen Film Collection).
We're the Millers (2013) Jennifer Aniston, Jason Sudeikis, Emma Roberts, Will Poulter, Ed Helms, Nick Offerman, Kathryn Hahn. Read more about "We're the Millers" in the November Calendar. Formats: Two-disc DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Extended cut of the film, "Miller's Unleashed -- Outtakes Overload," "Stories From the Road" behind-the-scenes featurettes ("Extreme Aniston", "The Miller Makeovers," "Road Trippin' With the Millers," "Don't Suck Venom," "Getting Out of a Sticky Situation," "I Am Pablo Chacon," "Rollin' in the RV"), "Livin' It Up with Brad" featurette, "When Paranoia Sets In" featurette, deleted scenes, gags & more outtakes. (Warner).
When Calls the Heart (2013) Hallmark Channel movie about Elizabeth Thatcher, a cultured young school teacher in 1910 who, through the discovery of her aunt's secret diary, finds the courage to leave her big city home to accept a teaching position in a frontier coal mining town. In the process, she also finds the potential for love with a handsome Royal Canadian Mountie. Directed by Michael Landon Jr. and based on the best-selling books by Christian author Janette Oke. The film has inspired a TV series of the same name for 2014. Formats: DVD. (Word Entertainment).
photo for >Women Without Men Women Without Men (2009 -- Iran) Against the tumultuous backdrop of Iran's 1953 CIA-backed coup d'etat, the destinies of four women converge in a beautiful orchard, where they find independence, solace and companionship in this highly acclaimed and award-winning adaptation of Shahrnush Parsipur's magical realist novel. Fakhri, a middle-aged woman trapped in a loveless marriage must contend with her feelings for an old flame who has just returned from America and walked back into her life. Zarin, a young prostitute, tries to escape the devastating realization that she can no longer see the faces of men. Munis, a politically awakened young woman, must resist the seclusion imposed on her by her religiously traditional brother, while her friend Faezeh remains oblivious to the turmoil in the streets and longs only to marry Munis' domineering brother. As the political turmoil swells in the streets of Tehran, each woman is liberated from her predicament. Formats: DVD. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette, Walker Art Center Q&A, director Shirin Neshat video compilation: two slideshows featuring "Production of Women Without Men" and "The Art of Shirin Neshat," booklet featuring an interviewing with director Shirin Neshat. (IndiePix).
The World's End (2013) Five middle-aged friends set out to relive a beer-fueled odyssey from their youth, and end up in an epic battle to save humankind. This is the third and final film in Wright's "The Ultimate Three Flavors Cornetto Trilogy," which also features hits "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz," and which is being released to Blu-ray this week. Read more about "The World's End" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: "Completing the Golden Mile -- The Making of The World's End," about the film and the depth of the themes and the relationships between the characters; commentary with screenwriters Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg. Blu-ray adds: Cast commentary with stars Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Paddy Considine; technical commentary with director Edgar Wright and director of photography Bill Pope; "Filling in the Blanks: The Stunts and FX of The World's End"; hair and make-up tests; rehearsal footage; stunt tapes; VFX breakdown; "There's Only One Gary King -- Osymyso's Inibri-8 Megamix mash-up of Gary King's (Pegg) best moments set to music by DJ Osymyso; "The Man Who Would Be (Gary) King"; "Signs & Omens," a film clip montage highlighting all the hidden clues and hints throughout the film; "Edgar & Simon's Flip Chart" in which writers Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg bring back the trusty flip chart to reveal their step-by-step process of creating the story; deleted scene, outtakes, alternate edits and more. (Universal).

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November 26

Agatha Christie's Poirot, Series 10 Four mysteries, newly remastered and restored to their original U.K. broadcast order. Formats: Two-disc DVD, $39.99; two-disc Blu-ray, $49.99. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette, photo gallery. (Acorn Media).
Battle Ground (aka Forbidden Ground) (2013) Johan Ear, Tim Pocock, Martin Copping, Denai Gracie, Sarah Anne Mawbey. Three British soldiers find themselves stranded in No Man's Land after a failed charge on the German Trenches in France during WWI. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette. (Lionsgate).
Breaking Bad: The Complete Series BLU-RAY (2008-13) A Collector's Edition of the entire series with more than two-hours of never-before-seen footage in a new series documentary ("No Half Measures: Creating the Final Season of Breaking Bad") photo for Breaking Bad: The Complete Series BLU-RAY exclusively in the box set, which comes packaged in a collectible replica barrel representing part of Walter White's dark legacy. The documentary chronicles the making of the final season, from filming the first table read to the very last day on set and everything in between, including Bryan Cranston inviting the camera in to his Albuquerque living room for the first reading of the final script with Aaron Paul. The box set also contains all bonus features from previously released seasons (more than 50 hours, including retail exclusives formerly only available in select stores), a Los Pollos Hermanos apron and a collectible booklet with a letter from Gilligan, as well as a commemorative "Breaking Bad" challenge coin designed and created by Gilligan exclusively for this set as a token of appreciation to fans for making the "Breaking Bad" journey. Formats:Blu-ray Disc, $299.99. (Sony).
Breaking Bad: The Final Season (2013) The final eight episodes. Formats: Three-disc DVD, $55.99; two-disc Blu-ray, $65.99; UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Cast and crew commentaries on every episode, Alternate ending: A three-minute alternate version of how "Breaking Bad" could have ended, deleted and extended scenes, gag reel, Walt's confession, the layers of a sound mix, episodes of "Inside Breaking Bad," uncensored and extended episodes, four featurettes: "The Main Event," "The Final Showdown," "Life of a Show Runner" and "Behind-the-Scenes of the Alternate Ending." Blu-ray adds "Blood Money" table read, a rare look at the only final season "Breaking Bad" table read. (Sony).
The Canyons (2013) Dir.: Paul Schrader; James Deen, Lindsay Lohan, Nolan Gerard Funk, Amanda Brooks, Tenille Houston, Gus Van Sant. Available in rated and unrated director's cut. Read more about "The Canyons" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc. (IFC Films).
Getaway (2013) Ethan Hawke, Selena Gomez, Jon Voight, Rebecca Budig, Paul Freeman. Read more about "Getaway" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Crash cams, "Destroying a Custom Shelby," "Metal and Asphalt," "Selena Gomez: On Set," "The Train Station." (Warner).
The Horror Show (1989) Lance Henriksen, Brion James, Rita Taggart. Serial killer Max Jenke, who butchered 116 people with his meat cleaver, is sent to the electric chair but the burst of electricity turns him into a supernatural force, and he vows revenge on the cop who captured him. Formats: Blu-ray/DVD Combo. Extras: Commentary with producer Sean S. Cunningham, interview with stunt coordinator Kane Hodder and actress Rita Taggart, theatrical trailer. (Shout! Factory).
How Sherlock Changed the World (2013) Documentary looks at the astonishing impact that Sherlock Holmes has had on the development of real criminal investigation and forensic techniques. Uses archival material and reconstruction to tell the true stories of the scientists, detectives and even criminals who were inspired or influenced by the legend of Holmes. The program explores real crimes that were solved thanks to a piece of equipment Holmes used, a technique he popularized or invented, or even his method of reasoning. Formats: DVD, $24.99. (PBS Distribution).
Impractical Jokers: The Complete First Season (2011-12) Two-disc set with 17 episodes of the truTV show that centers around four longtime friends who dare each other to do outrageous things in public on hidden camera, capturing the startled reactions from innocent bystanders. Formats: DVD, $19.98. Extras: Commentary, behind-the-scenes features, deleted scenes. (Warner).
photo for JFK Assassination: The Definitive Guide (2013) Documentary timed to release around the program broadcast premiere as well as the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's assassination. To create "JFK Assassination: The Definitive Guide," the History Channel conducted the largest nationwide survey on the death of John F. Kennedy to learn what the American people believe really happened. The results of this extensive survey will allow viewers to take a deeper look at the murder of JFK along with the surrounding events that took place that day. Through this unique special, viewers will have the opportunity to examine the assassination that forever changed this country. Formats: DVD, $14.98. (Lionsgate).
JOBS (2013) Ashton Kutcher, Dermot Mulroney, Josh Gad, J. K. Simmons, Matthew Modine, Lesley Ann Warren, Ron Eldard. Read more about "JOBS" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: "Ashton Kutcher IS Steve Jobs," "The Legacy of Steve Jobs," "JOBS: Behind the Score," commentary with director Joshua Michael Stern. (Universal).
Knightriders BLU-RAY DEBUT (1981) Dir.: George A. Romero; Ed Harris, Tom Savini, John Amplas, Patricia Tallman, Ken Foree. The members of a traveling Renaissance Faire, who saddle up on motorcycles instead of horses, ride from town to town to stage medieval jousting tournaments with combatants in suits of armor and wielding lances, battle-axes, maces and broadswords. But they find it difficult to keep their family-like group together, with pressure from local law enforcement, interest from entertainment agents, and fallout from their increasingly delusional leader. Extras: Commentary; new interviews with writer-director Romero, Savini and Harris; theatrical trailer; TV spots. (Shout! Factory).
Le joli mai (The Lovely Month of May) (1963) Dir.: Chris Marker & Pierre Lhomme. One of Chris Marker's major works, "Le joli mai," had its U.S. premiere at the very first New York Film Festival in 1963, then quickly disappeared from our screens. But the film, now fully restored, reemerged at this year's Cannes Film Festival, Telluride Film Festival, and Toronto Film Festival. Its U.S. Theatrical season started on September 13, 2013 at Film Forum in New York City. A portrait of Paris and Parisians shot during May 1962 -- after the end of the French war in Algeria and ­"the first springtime of peace" for France since before World War II­ -- the cinema verite "Le joli mai" is a film with several thousand actors including a poet, a student, an owl, a housewife, a stock broker, a competitive dancer, two lovers, General de Gaulle and several cats. It features a musical score by Academy Award-winning composer Michel Legrand, with narration by Simone Signoret (English) and Yves Montand (French). Formats: Two-disc DVD. Extras: Three bonus films: "Playtime in Paris" (Catherine Varlin, 1962), "A Distant Gaze ..." (Jean Ravel, 1964), "Exercise in Direct Cinema" (1962), featuring Pierre Lhomme; deleted scenes; 24 page booklet. (Icarus Films).
Murdoch Mysteries, Season 6 Thirteen episodes of the hit detective series set in Victorian-era Toronto that follows Yannick Bisson as the brilliant Detective William Murdoch, a pioneer of crime-solving technologies. Formats: Four-disc DVD, three-disc Blu-ray Disc, $59.99. (Acorn Media).
Old Dogs & New Tricks: Complete Seasons 1 & 2 (2011-13) All 15 episodes of the TV series that follows the friendship and tribulations of four diverse and otherwise successful gay West Hollywood men -- each one located squarely within middle age. Formats: DVD, Digital. Extras: Gag reel, behind-the-scenes featurette. (Wolfe Video).
Photo: A History From Behind the Lens (2012) Twelve-part series examines the past, present, and future of photography using clever animations. Episodes include Surrealist Photography; The Primitives of Photography, 1850–1860; The New German Objectivity; Staged Photography; Press Usage; Pictorialism; New Vision: Experimental Photography of the 1920s; Photographing Intimacy; The Inventors; Found Images; Conceptual Photography; After the Photo. Formats: Two-disc DVD, $49.99. Extras: Twelve-page booklet with a history of cameras, a timeline of breakthroughs in photography, articles on photographic portraits and image manipulation, and a glossary of photography terms. (Athena).
photo for Please Kill Mr. Know It All Please Kill Mr. Know It All (2012) Lara Jean Chorostecki, Jefferson Brown, Al Sapienza. Romantic comedy about an anonymous advice columnist who finds herself caught in an unlikely romance with the man who has been hired to kill her alter ego. When her anonymous advice column -- written under the name Mr. Know It All -- becomes an overnight success, Sally has to submit a sketch of the "author" and chooses a handsome stranger she spots in a movie theater, Albert, who just so happens to be a contract killer. Once the picture is published, Albert can't walk down the street without being recognized, and so, for the sake of his livelihood, he decides he must kill Mr. Know It All. But after meeting her, Albert doesn't know whether to kiss her or kill her. Buy when the girlfriend of Albert's mob boss decides to pack up and leave after reading an inspiring newspaper column, Albert finds himself contracted to kill the author --- Mr. Know It All -- and he's torn between love and responsibility. Formats: DVD. (Monarch Home Entertainment).
Red 2 (2013) Bruce Willis, John Malkovich, Mary-Louise Parker, Helen Mirren, Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Byung Hun Lee, David Thewlis, Brian Cox, Neal McDonough. Read more about "Red 2" in the November Calendar. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital, UltraViolet (cloud). Extras: Deleted scenes, gag reel. Blu-ray adds "The Red 2 Experience" behind-the-scenes featurette about the characters, the weapons, the spy gadgets and stunts. (Summit Ent./Lionsgate).
Romeo and Juliet in Yiddish (2010) Lazer Weiss, Melissa Weisz, Mendy Zafir, Bubbles Yoeli Weiss, Josef Yossi Friedman, Eve Annenberg. "Romeo and Juliet" has been translated around the world and transferred to many locales; this one sets William Shakespeare's tragedy in contemporary New York, spoken in today's Yiddish by mostly young, ex-Orthodox actors. Ava, a wisecracking middle-aged E.R. nurse, undertakes a Yiddish translation of Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet" in her pursuit of a Master's degree. In over her head, she accepts help from some charismatic and wayward young Ultra Orthodox dropouts, Lazer and Mendy. When an ex-Orthodox leaver enchants Ava's apartment with Kabbalah magic, the young men begin to live Shakespeare's play in their heads -- with Juliet as a beautiful Lubavitch girl -- in a gauzy and beautiful alternate reality where everyone is Orthodox. The Bard never dreamed of the Montagues as Satmar and the Capulets as Lubavitch. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. More info: www.nancyfishmanfilmreleasing.com. (Cinedigm).
photo for Samson & Delilah Samson & Delilah (2013 -- Australia) Rowan McNamara, Marissa Gibson. Best described as a "survival love story," Australia's official Oscar submission from 2009 and winner of the Camera d'Or at Cannes for "Best First Film," follows cheeky, aimless Samson (McNamara) and Delilah (Gibson), two indigenous 14 year-olds living in a isolated Aboriginal community in the desert of Central Australia. Amongst a tiny collection of houses, day in and day out, nothing changes and no one seems to care. However, when tragedy strikes, the duo are branded as outcasts and they turn their backs on home and embark for distant Alice Springs on a grueling road trip that turns into a journey of self-discovery. Formats: DVD. Extras: Cast and crew interview, behind-the-scenes featurette, short film: "The Things They Said." (IndiePix).
The Snow Queen (2012 -- Russia) Animated tale based on the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale. Formats: DVD, $20.99, VOD. (Vertical Entertainment).
Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman The colossally popular Zatoichi films make up the longest-running action series in Japanese history and created one of the screen's great heroes: an itinerant blind masseur who also happens to be a lightning-fast swordsman. As this iconic figure, the charismatic and earthy Shintaro Katsu became an instant superstar, lending a larger-than-life presence to the thrilling adventures of a man who lives staunchly by a code of honor and delivers justice in every town and village he enters. The films that feature him are variously pulse-pounding, hilarious, stirring, and completely off-the-wall. This deluxe set features the string of 25 Zatoichi films made between 1962 and 1973, collected in one package for the first time. New digital restorations, with uncompressed monaural soundtracks on the Blu-rays. Formats: Blu-ray/DVD Combo (9-Blu-Rays/18-DVDs). Extras: "The Blind Swordsman," a 1978 documentary about Zatoichi portrayer and filmmaker Shintaro Katsu, along with a new interview with its director, John Nathan; interview with Asian-film critic Tony Rayns; trailers for all 25 films; book featuring an essay by critic Geoffrey O'Brien, synopses of the films by critic, novelist, and musician Chris D., "The Tale of Zatoichi," the original short story by Kan Shimozawa; and 25 new illustrations inspired by the films, by 25 different artists. (The Criterion Collection).


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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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November 10, 2013
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