OnVideo.org - Home Video Releases - DVDs, Blu-ray - August


OnVideo Logo blu-ray
Blu-ray Releases
home page
calendar
reviews
features
video resources
video sales
links
information


Join the
Sixties generation

dujour
iway 500
winner


Good & Associates logo

Masthead created by Good & Associates

OnVideo's Guide to DVDs

DVD Resources
Links to DVD news, information and sales sites.

Catalogs of DVDs released 1999 -- 2006

DVD Releases
August 2021
August 3
August 10
August 17
August 24
August 31
June 2021
July 2021
September 2021
October 2021
November 2021
August 3

photo for The Daimajin Trilogy [Limited Edition]

The Daimajin Trilogy [Limited Edition]

(1966 -- Japan) "The Daimajin Trilogy" saw Daiei's Kyoto studios bringing its own iconic movie monster to life in a unique but short-lived series that transplants the Golem legend to Japan's Warring States period of the late-16th century. In "Daimajin," directed by Kimiyoshi Yasuda, the young son and daughter of the benevolent feudal lord Hanabusa flee to the mountains when their parents are slain by the treacherous usurper Odate. Ten years later, when the elderly priestess who has harbored them is also murdered, the rage of the slumbering ancient god that lies beneath the crumbling giant stone idol hidden deep in the forests in the mountains is invoked. In "Return of Daimajin," Kenji Misumi brings his usual stylistic flourish, as the wrathful deity is roused from his new home on an island in the middle of a lake by the violent incursions of a vicious warlord. In the final film, "Wrath of Daimajin," by veteran jidaigeki director Kazuo Mori, four young boys make a perilous trip to elicit the help of the ancient mountain god in freeing their family members who have been enslaved by a tyrannical lord. Remarkably overlooked in the West, these three thrilling tales of feudal oppression and divine retribution meted out by the iconic stone warrior of the title combine lavish period detail with jaw-dropping special effects. Formats: Three-disc Blu-ray set. Extras: Illustrated collector’s 100 page book featuring new essays by Jonathan Clements, Keith Aiken, Ed Godziszewski, Raffael Coronelli, Erik Homenick, Robin Gatto and Kevin Derendorf; postcards featuring the original Japanese artwork for all three films; reversible sleeves featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Matt Frank; commentaries; featurettes; image galleries; (Arrow Video/MVD Entertainment).

Advertisement


Final Account

(2021) This documentary is a portrait of the last living generation of Hitler's Third Reich in never-before-seen interviews raising vital questions about authority, conformity, national identity, and their own roles in the greatest human crimes in history. Formats: DVD. (Focus Features/Universal).

Here Today

photo for Here Today When veteran comedy writer Charlie Burnz (Billy Crystal) meets New York singer Emma Payge (Tiffany Haddish), they form an unlikely yet hilarious and touching friendship that kicks the generation gap aside and redefines the meaning of love and trust. Vitals: Director: Billy Crystal. Stars: Billy Crystal, Tiffany Haddish, Penn Badgley, Laura Benanti, Louisa Krause, Anna Deavere Smith, Nyambi Nyambi, Sharon Stone. 2019, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 117 min., Comedy, US box office gross: $2.807 million, worldwide $2.807 million, Sony. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. Extras: Commentary with Billy Crystal, Tiffany Haddish & writer Alan Zweibel; interviews with filmmakers and cast. Read more here. 2 stars

Luca

Set in a seaside town on the Italian Riviera, Disney and Pixar’s “Luca” is a coming-of-age story about a young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer. Luca shares his amazing adventures with his friend Alberto, but their fun is threatened by a deeply held secret: They’re sea monsters from a world below the water’s surface. photo for LucaVitals: Director: Enrico Casarosa. Stars: Voices of Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer, Emma Berman, Saverio Raimondo, Maya Rudolph, Marco Barricelli,Jim Gaffigan. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: PG, 95 min., Animated Family, worldwide $11.6 million, Disney. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Combo, VOD, Digital. Extras: "Our Italian Inspiration" featurette; "Secretly a Sea Monster" featurette; "Best Friends" featurette; deleted scenes. Read more here. 3 stars

Lucky

(2021) Brea Grant, Dhruv Uday Singh, Kausar Mohammed, Hunter C. Smith, Kristina Klebe. Life takes a sudden turn for May (Grant), a popular self-help book author, when she finds herself the target of a mysterious man with murderous intentions. Every night without fail, he comes after her, and every day the people around her barely seem to notice. With no one to turn to, May is pushed to her limits and must take matters into her own hands to survive and to regain control of her life. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. Extras: Filmmaker commentary, behind-the-scenes photo gallery. (RLJE Films). Read more here.

Pooling to Paradise

(2021) Lynn Chen, Jonathan Lipnicki, Dreama Walker, Jordan Carlos, Taryn Manning. An indie comedy about a ride share that turns into an unexpected road trip to Paradise, NV. Four strangers, each at a cross-worlds in their lives, find unexpected connections that change their view on life. Formats: DVD (Walmart only), VOD, Digital. (SP Releasing). Read more here.

Seance

(2021) Suki Waterhouse, Madisen Beaty, Ella-Rae Smith, Inanna Sarkis. Camille Meadows is the new girl at the prestigious Edelvine Academy for Girls. Soon after her arrival, six girls invite her to join them in a late-night ritual, calling forth the spirit of a dead former student who reportedly haunts their halls. But before morning, one of the girls is dead, leaving the others wondering what they may have awakened. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Director commentary, "Behind the Scenes of Seance," outtakes, deleted scenes, decapitation pre-viz, behind-the-scenes photo gallery. (RLJE Films).
photo for The Sergio Martino Collection

The Sergio Martino Collection

(1971 -- Italy) One of Italian cinema's most celebrated and prolific filmmakers, Sergio Martino worked across a range of genres, but is arguably best known for his giallo thrillers. This collection brings together three of his finest. In "The Case of the Scorpion's Tail," recently widowed Lisa Baumer is summoned to Athens to collect her husband's generous life insurance policy, but soon discovers others are willing to kill to get their hands on it. In the Edgar Allan Poe-inspired "Your Vice is a Locked Room and Only I Have the Key," abrasive drunk Oliviero amuses himself by holding drunken orgies and abusing his long-suffering wife ... but when a series of grisly murders shakes the local community, Oliviero finds himself in the frame. Finally, "The Suspicious Death of a Minor" combines giallo and crime thriller tropes as undercover cop Paolo pursues the Milanese criminal outfit responsible for the brutal murder of an underage prostitute, but finds himself up against a killer-for-hire who's bumping off witnesses before they have a chance to talk. Featuring sensational casts of genre stalwarts, including Edwige Fenech, George Hilton, Anita Strindberg and Luigi Pistilli, with scripts by giallo master Ernesto Gastaldi and sensuous scores by maestro Bruno Nicolai, this is an essential collection for any Italian cult cinema fan. All three restored in 2K from the photo for Tailgateoriginal camera negatives. Formats: Blu-ray. Extras: Commentaries, interviews, featurettes. (Arrow Video/MVD Entertainment). Read more here.

Tailgate (Bumperkleef)

(2019 -- Netherlands) Jeroen Spitzenberger, Anniek Pheifer, Willem de Wolf, Roosmarijn Van Der Hoek. Hans, his wife and two young children, hit the highway on a trip to visit family. After getting stuck behind a slow-moving van, he recklessly starts to antagonize the eerily stoic driver, blaring the horn and riding his bumper. Little does he realize that he’s just crossed the wrong motorist – a deranged madman who sets out to teach Hans a lesson he’ll not soon forget. Lured into an alarming game of vehicular cat and mouse, a simple family road trip turns into a deadly obstacle course in this nerve-wracking, pulse-pounding thriller, an Official Selection at the Sitges Film Festival and FrightFest. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Film Movement). Read more here.

Those Who Wish Me Dead

Oscar winner Angelina Jolie stars as Hannah, a smoke jumper reeling from the loss of three young lives she failed to save from a fire. When she comes across a bloodied and traumatized 12-year-old boy, the two set out together to cross miles of thick forest. Braving deadly photo for Those Who Wish Me Deadlightning storms that challenge even Hannah’s well-honed survival skills, they’re unaware of the true dangers they face as they’re hunted by two killers while a massive fiery blaze heads straight for them. Vitals: Director: Taylor Sheridan. Stars: Angelina Jolie, Nicholas Hoult, Aiden Gillen, Medina Senghore, Tyler Perry, Jake Weber, Jon Bernthal. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: R, 100 min., Action Thriller, US box office gross: $7.309 million, worldwide $23.814 million, Warner. Formats: DVD + Digital Code, Blu-ray + Digital Code, VOD, Digital. Extras: "Making Those Who Wish Me Dead." Read more here. 3 stars

Till Death

(2021) Megan Fox, Callan Mulvey, Eoin Macken, Aml Ameen, Jack Roth. After a romantic evening in their secluded lake house, Emma (Fox) awakens handcuffed to her dead husband. Trapped and isolated in the dead of winter, she must fight off hired killers to escape her husband's twisted plan. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. (Screen Media Films).

Under the Stadium Lights

(2021) Milo Gibson, Abigail Hawk, Acoryé White, Carter Redwood, Noel G., Laurence Fishburne. Inspirational true story of a small-town high school football team who beat all the odds to win their state championship. After a crushing defeat ended their prior season, everyone counted the Abilene Eagles out of title contention. Facing doubts and personal challenges both on and off the field, it took the guidance of their team chaplain (Gibson) and a surrogate father figure (Fishburne) for them to realize what they could achieve when they stood united as a team. Formats: DVD. (Paramount).

The Unthinkable (Den Blomstertid nu kommer)

(2021 -- Sweden) Christoffer Nordenrot, Lisa Henni, Jesper Barkselius. It’s midsummer and Sweden wakes up to a state of emergency. TV, internet, and telephone networks are down, and before anyone realizes what’s behind the collapse, a series of unexplained attacks take place around the country. Alex, a successful pianist whose controlled existence is upturned when his mother dies in a suspected terror attack, returns to his childhood village to arrange the funeral. There, he must reconcile with both his father and his old flame, Anna, who he has desperately been trying to forget. As old feelings come back to the surface, more mysterious attacks plunge Sweden into chaos and confusion. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Magnolia Pictures).



Back to top


August 10

photo for After Life

After Life

(1998 -- Japan) If you could choose only one memory to hold on to for eternity, what would it be? That’s the question at the heart of Hirokazu Kore-eda’s revelatory international breakthrough, a bittersweet fantasia in which the recently deceased find themselves in a limbo realm where they must select a single cherished moment from their life to be recreated on film for them to take into the next world. "After Life’s" high-concept premise is grounded in Kore-eda’s documentary-like approach to the material, which he shaped through interviews with hundreds of Japanese citizens. What emerges is a panoramic vision of the human experience -- its ephemeral joys and lingering regrets -- and a quietly profound meditation on memory, our interconnectedness, and the amberlike power of cinema to freeze time. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, with new 2K restoration, approved by writer-director Hirokazu Kore-eda, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray. Extras: Audio commentary featuring film scholar Linda Ehrlich; new interviews with Kore-eda, stills photographer–cinematographer Masayoshi Sukita, and cinematographer Yutaka Yamazaki; deleted scenes; trailer; an essay by novelist Viet Thanh Nguyen. (The Criterion Collection).

Are You Afraid of the Dark?: Curse of the Shadows

(2021) The Midnight Society returns in a follow-up to 2019’s reimagined limited series horror anthology. Based on the ‘90s kids’ cult classic and featuring a terrifying new story, the second season includes six hour-long episodes that follow an all-new group of kids as they tell the tale of a curse that has been cast over their small seaside town, haunted by a villain named the Shadowman. After their leader goes missing, it’s up to the remaining members of the Midnight Society to break the curse and free the Shadowman’s victims, before they too disappear into the shadows. Formats: DVD. (Nickelodeon/Paramount).

Batman: The Long Halloween, Part Two

(2021) Latest feature-length animated film. Inspired by the iconic mid-1990s DC story from Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale, "Batman: The Long Halloween" continues as the Holiday Killer is still at large and, with Bruce Wayne under the spell of the venomous Poison Ivy, Batman is nowhere to be found. In the meantime, Harvey Dent is confronting battles on two fronts: attempting to end the mob war while also dealing with a strained marriage. And, after an attack that leaves Harvey hideously disfigured, the District Attorney unleashes the duality of his psyche that he’s strived his entire life to suppress. Now, as Two-Face, Dent decides to take the law into his own hands and deliver judgment to those who’ve wronged him, his family and all of Gotham. Ultimately, the Dark Knight must put together the tragic pieces that converged to create Two-Face, the Holiday Killer, Batman and Gotham City itself. Formats: Blu-ray, Digital. Extras: "DC Showcase – Blue Beetle" (new animated short), DC Universe Movies Flashback, From the DC Vault. (Warner). Read more here.
photo for Chariots of the Gods: 50th Anniversary

Chariots of the Gods: 50th Anniversary

(1970) A new 2K restoration from the original 35mm negative. Based on Erich Von Daniken's book purporting to prove that throughout history aliens have visited earth. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has included "Chariots of the Gods" in their list of the Top 100 Documentary Films of All Time. "Fifty million stars in our galaxy have the potential of supporting life forms capable of traveling to other planets," says world-renowned authority Erich von Daniken, whose film version gives stunning visual proof that some form of life from outer space landed on Earth centuries ago. It took five years for von Daniken to document, on film, the physical evidence of visits by galactic travelers who came to Earth. Just what they did here and the influences they left behind is the core of the film. In search of basic truths, the film takes viewers into the far reaches of underground caves and tombs, and to the tops of desolate mountains on every major continent to show the evidence von Daniken has been collecting. Although this controversial film may provide the answers to age old mysteries, it may be the beginning of an entirely new set of questions. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Full-length documentary "Mysteries of the Gods." (VCI Entertainment/MVD Entertainment).

Dark Stories

(2019 -- France) Kristanna Loken, Michelle Ryan, Dominique Pinon. What if demons, the living dead, evil dolls, and other supernatural creatures came to haunt our apartments, houses, cafes, museums and other places of daily life? How would you get through it? What would you do to stay alive? Here are five tales of gripping terror: A lone mother is attacked by a bloodthirsty creepy doll ... and to keep it from killing her sleeping son, she must use all her imagination to photo for Drunk Bus distract it with horror stories -- featuring shadowy ghouls stalking an art gallery, the final judgment before an impending apocalypse, a forensic scientist confronted by his zombie victim, a nightmarish monster and more. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Scream Factory). Read more here.

Drunk Bus

(2020) Charlie Tahan, Kara Hayward, Pineapple Tangaroa, Sarah Mezzanotte. Michael (Tahan) is a recent graduate whose post-college plan is derailed when his girlfriend leaves him for a job in New York City. When the bus service hires a security guard to watch over the night shift, Michael comes face to tattooed face with Pineapple, a 300-pound punk rock Samoan. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Gag reel, behind-the-scenes photo gallery, theatrical trailer. (Filmrise/MVD Entertainment).

Finding You

After an ill-fated audition at a prestigious New York music conservatory, violinist Finley Sinclair (Rose Reid) travels to an Irish coastal village to begin her semester studying photo for Finding Youabroad. At the B&B run by her host family she encounters gregarious and persistent heartthrob movie star Beckett Rush (Jedidiah Goodacre), who is there to film another installment of his medieval fantasy-adventure franchise. As romance sparks between the unlikely pair, Beckett ignites a journey of discovery for Finley that transforms her heart, her music, and her outlook on life. In turn, Finley emboldens Beckett to reach beyond his teen-idol image and pursue his true passion. Based on the young-adult novel. Vitals: Director: Brian Baugh. Stars: Katherine McNamara, Jedidiah Goodacre, Vanessa Redgrave, Rose Reid, Tom Everett Scott. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: PG, 115 min., Romantic Drama, US box office gross: $2.748 million, worldwide $3.308 million, Lionsgate. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital. Extras: "A Look at Finding You," image gallery, theatrical trailer. 2 stars

The Frenchman’s Garden

(1978 -- Spain) María José Cantudo, Ágata Lys, Paul Naschy. “The Frenchman” was what locals called the man who ran the bar and restaurant in the small town of Peñaflor in rural Spain in the early part of the 20th century. But Juan Andrés Aldije Monmejá was not your usual jolly inn keeper. He ran an illegal gambling den and pimped out the waitresses who worked for him; even though he was married to one of the richest women in town, Juan Andrés was not averse to visiting his own bordello for late night entertainment. Deciding that there were easier and quicker ways to exploit his customers, The Frenchman started slaughtering them, stealing their money and burying their corpses in the garden at the back of his inn. As his greed increased, so did the savagery of his murderous acts, and it was not long before people started asking questions. Formats: Blu-ray. (Mondo Macabro).
photo for Friday the 13th 8-Movie Collection

Friday the 13th 8-Movie Collection

Get ready for the only Friday the 13th of the year on August 13th with this collection, which includes newly remastered versions of the first four films in one of the most influential and successful horror franchises in cinematic history. The set is gushing over with hours of previously released special features including slashed scenes, making of featurettes, killer commentaries and much, much more. The set also includes access to digital copies of all eight movies, including the “uncut” edition of the original "Friday the 13th." The eight films in the collection are: "Friday the 13th," "Friday the 13th Part 2," "Friday the 13th Part 3," "Friday the 13th Part IV: The Final Chapter," "Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning," "Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives," "Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood," and "Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan." Formats: Blu-ray. (Paramount).

The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2

photo for The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2 After surviving a night of terror on the West Coast, (not-so) best-selling author Carl Black (Mike Epps) moves his family back to his childhood home in the Windy City where he hopes to find the peace and quiet he needs to write his new book. But when an eccentric neighbor (Katt Williams) moves in next door, Carl becomes convinced that the man is a vampire trying to take his family, and must team up with his oddball neighbors to save his career and their lives. Vitals: Director: Deon Taylor. Stars: Mike Epps, Katt Williams, Bresha Webb, Lil Duval, Zulay Henao, Tyrin Turner, Michael Blackson, Snoop Dogg, Andrew Bachelor, Gary Owen, Danny Trejo. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: R, 97 min., Horror Comedy, US box office gross: $2.543 million, worldwide $2.543 million, Lionsgate. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray + Digital Code, VOD, Digital. Extras: Commentary with cast & crew, "The House Next Door: Meet The Dope Cast," "Hidden Empire: Paving a New Way," bloopers, deleted scenes. Read more here. 2 stars
photo for I Am Toxic

I Am Toxic

(2018 -- Argentina) Esteban Prol, Finni Bocchino, Horacio Fontova. A man wakes in a world ravaged by biological warfare with no memory of his previous life. Taken prisoner by scavengers he meets a young woman who helps him escape. As the scavengers pursue them through barren wastelands he discovers that he must make the ultimate sacrifice to save her. Formats: DVD. (Jinga Films).

Lust

(2017 -- Portugal) Magdalena From Delis, Sondre Krogtoft Larsen, Damian Gallagher. A famous crime writer becomes a victim after a crazed fan brutally attacks her. Isolated in her apartment she tries to recover but continues to feel threatened after experiencing strange events. Her psychiatrist believes that it's all in her mind, a result of post-traumatic stress, but she is convinced that her attacker is stalking her and resorts to extreme violence to protect herself. Formats: DVD. Extras: Trailer, stills, behind the scenes featurette, behind the scenes - SFX. (Jinga Films).

The Misfits

(2021) Pierce Brosnan, Rami Jaber, Hermione Corfield, Jamie Chung, Mike Angelo, Tim Roth, Nick Cannon. A band of modern-day Robin Hoods known as "The Misfits" recruit renowned thief Richard Pace (Brosnan) to help them pull off the heist of the century. The prize: millions in gold bars stashed underneath one of the world's most secure prisons. From Action director Renny Harlin ("Cliffhanger," "Die Hard 2," "The Long Kiss Goodnight"). Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Paramount). Read more here.
photo for My Heart Can't Beat Unless You Tell It To

My Heart Can't Beat Unless You Tell It To

(2021) Patrick Fugit, Owen Campbell, Ingrid Sophie Schram. Dwight (Fugit) prowls the streets after dark. He searches each night for the lonely and forlorn, looking for people who won’t be missed. Dwight takes no joy in this, but he needs their blood. Without fresh human blood, his fragile young brother Thomas cannot survive. Each death takes a larger toll, the burden of his crimes weighing heavier each time, threatening to crack his spirit. But Thomas (Campbell) and his sister Jessie (Schram) are all the family Dwight has left, and as a fiercely private and close-knit family unit, they depend on him and the rituals they’ve learned in order to keep their secret. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. (Dark Sky Films).Read more here.

Occupation: Rainfall

(2021 -- Australia) A sequel to the 2018 film "Occupation." This installment unfolds two years into an intergalactic invasion of Earth, as survivors fight back in a desperate ground war. While casualties mount by the day, the resistance -- along with some unexpected allies -- uncovers a plot that could bring the war to a decisive end. Now, with the alien invaders hell-bent on making our planet their new home, the race is on to save mankind. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray + Digital Code, VOD, Digital. Extras: Audio commentary with writer-director Luke Sparke; audio commentary with writer-director Luke Sparke, producers Carly Imrie and Carmel Imrie, actor Zachary Garred, and visual effects supervisor Alex Becconsall; "Sydney Escape"; deleted scenes. (Lionsgate). Read more here.
photo for Profile

Profile

(2021) Follows an undercover British journalist on her quest to bait and expose a terrorist recruiter through social media, while trying not to be sucked in by her recruiter and lured into becoming a militant extremist herself. The unconventional thriller plays out entirely on a computer screen in the screen life format. Vitals: Director: Timur Bekmambetov. Stars: Valene Kane, Shazad Latif, Christine Adams, Amir Rahimzadeh, Morgan Watkins. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: R, 106 min., Mystery Thriller, US box office gross: $1.744 million, worldwide $1.763 million, Universal. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. Read more here. 2 stars

Queen Bees

(2021) Helen is forced by her daughter to move into the Pine Grove Retirement Community after she locks herself out of her house while a fire rages in the kitchen. At first, Helen is reluctant to stay there, but eventually is invited into the social circle of the Queen Bees: a photo for Queen Beesgroup of women (and a few men) who rule the social scene like the popular kids in high school. Eventually, Helen comes into her own as she builds new friendships and even finds romance with a fellow resident named Dan. Vitals: Director: Michael Lembeck. Stars: Ellen Burstyn, Jane Curtin, Loretta Devine, Ann-Margret, Christopher Lloyd, James Caan, Alec Mapa, French Stewart, Matthew Barnes. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 100 min., Comedy, US box office gross: $1.895 million, worldwide $1.895 million, Gravitas Ventures. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. 2 stars

Scenes From an Empty Church

(2021) Kevin Corrigan, Max Casella, Thomas Jay Ryan, Paul Reiser. In a locked-down NYC, two priests open their church doors to those seeking salvation during the most isolating of times. From the commonplace to the truly metaphysical, their visitors reflect the full spectrum of personal crises of spirituality. Throughout their encounters with the city's sweetest, wildest and weirdest, the two priests learn the importance of connection, empathy and open-mindedness. Sometimes a little faith is all you need to make it through the bad times. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (MPI Media Group). Read more here.
photo for Through the Shadow

Through the Shadow

(2015 -- Portugal) Romeu Evaristo, Alexandre Varella, Isabel Gueron, Xande Valois, Mel Maia. Moving to the countryside of 20th century Rio de Janeiro, prim and assuming Laura is unprepared for life on an isolated plantation. Hired as a nanny for two young orphans who live on their uncle's coffee farm, she soon notices that things are not all as they seem. Confronted with continual apparitions, and noting the children's increasingly ambiguous behavior, Laura becomes convinced in the presence of hostile spirits whom she believes are intent on taking possession of her young charges. With growing concerns for their safety, she strives to unravel the mysteries of her new home without realizing that it may be herself who is in mortal danger. Based on Henry James classic novel "The Turn Of The Screw." Formats: DVD. (Jinga Films).

Victim of Love

(2019 -- Denmark) The Copenhagen streets lead to the doorway of hell in Jesper Isaksen's stylish horror thriller. Charly (Rudi Køhnke) has unwillingly returned to his hometown Copenhagen in order to search for his American girlfriend Amy, who disappeared under strange circumstances at a hotel. Charly decides to revisit the hotel but is soon distracted by possible criminal activities in the room next door, by the tempting bartender Felicia (Siff Andersson) and his own faltering sense of judgment. Good old Copenhagen is decaying into a phantasmagorical nightmare, causing us to doubt what we're watching. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Indican Pictures). Read more here.




Back to top


August 17

After the End

(2021) Alex Frnka, Justin Hall, Dot-Marie Jones. A suspenseful story of life after a viral pandemic. After years on his own in a post-pandemic Oklahoma, a 17 year-old doomsday prepper meets a pregnant girl who brings companionship, but also the danger of a gun-wielding group of survivors hellbent on building a new world. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Shout! Studios). Read more here.

Analog Love: The (Long Lost) Art of the Mixtape

(2021) Do you remember sharing your feelings with someone through a “mix tape?” Analog Love is a joyful look at why this ritual of communication through music still continues to be so meaningful. The insights of Henry Rollins, Money Mark (Beastie Boys), Kim Shattuck (The Muffs), Jennifer Finch (L7), Jimmy Urine (Mindless Self Indulgence), Chantal Claret, Jude “Rude Jude” Angelini, Zernell Gillie (Grimy!), Monalisa Murray, Christian James Hand (The Session) and many more, get to the bottom of the long-lost art of the mix tape. Formats: Blu-ray, VOD. (Passion River). Read more here.

A Discovery of Witches Season 2

(2021) Two-disc set with all 10 episodes of the series based on the “All Souls” trilogy by Deborah Harkness. After narrowly escaping the Congregation of vampires, witches, and daemons, Diana and Matthew are hiding in time in the fascinating and treacherous world of Elizabethan London. Here, they must find a powerful witch teacher to help Diana control her magic and search for the elusive Book of Life. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: "The Story of A Discovery of Witches," "Can Love Survive," "Creating Elizabethan London." (RLJE Films).

Fast Vengeance

(2021) D.Y. Sao, Natalie Burn, Bai Ling, DMX, Jeff Fahey. Upon hearing of his brother's death, Shen returns to his old stomping grounds to find the men responsible and take justice into his own hands. He learns that a biker named Cobra and his ferocious gang, The Midnight Squad, were the ones responsible ... but to get anywhere close to them, he must enter the dark, turbulent realm of underground motorcycle racing. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. (Shout Studios). Read more here.

Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard

photo for Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard The world’s most lethal odd couple – bodyguard Michael Bryce (Ryan Reynolds) and hitman Darius Kincaid (Samuel L. Jackson) – are back on another life-threatening mission. Still unlicensed and under scrutiny, Bryce is forced into action by Darius’s even more volatile wife, the infamous international con artist Sonia Kincaid (Salma Hayek). As Bryce is driven over the edge by his two most dangerous protectees, the trio get in over their heads in a global plot and soon find that they are all that stand between Europe and a vengeful and powerful madman (Antonio Banderas). Joining in the fun and deadly mayhem is Morgan Freeman as ... well, you’ll have to see. Vitals: Director: Patrick Hughes. Stars: Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson, Salma Hayek, Antonio Banderas, and Morgan Freeman, Frank Grillo, Caroline Goodall, Rebecca Front, Gabriella Wright, Alice McMillan, Kristofer Kamiyasu, Tom Hopper, Blake Ritson, Richard E. Grant. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: R, 100 min., Action Comedy, US box office gross: $33.409 million, worldwide $55.265 million, Lionsgate. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Code, 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Combo, VOD, Digital. Extras: “Ryan, Sam, Salma: One F’d Up Family” featurette, “Gone Soft: The New Michael Bryce” featurette, “Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard: #stuntlife” featurette, “On the Set of Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard” featurette, Gag reel, theatrical trailers. Read more here. 3 stars

In the Good Old Summertime BLU-RAY DEBUT

(1949) Judy Garland, Van Johnson and silent comedy icon Buster Keaton star in this delightful musical when love can bloom between the most unlikely of couples in the good old summertime. photo for Little Q Extras: Introduction by Garland Biographer John Fricke; vintage "Fitzpatrick TravelTalks Shorts: Chicago, the Beautiful & Night Life in Chicago," theatrical trailer. (Warner Archive).

Little Q

(2019 -- China) Simon Yam. Little Q, a yellow lab with a curious birthmark, is training to become a guide dog for the blind. When his training is complete, Little Q is sent to help Lee Bo Ting, a famous, recently blinded chef. Irritable and bitter, Bo Ting is at first reluctant to rely on Little Q and even tries to drive him away several times. But through his loyalty, Little Q eventually teaches Bo Ting how to trust again, opening him up to a new life of wonderful possibilities. Formats: Blu-ray. (Well Go USA).

Midnight Diner

(2019 -- China) Tony Leung Ka-Fai, Deng Chao, Eddie Peng, Vision Wei. A small, counter-only restaurant, open daily from midnight to 7, is lovingly helmed by its mysterious owner and photo for Midnight Dinerchef, a quiet enigma who provides no menu yet can make any dish the customer desires. Year after year, people flock from far and wide to the mysterious Midnight Diner to share their stories, savor delicious home cooking, and finally, to leave refreshed, feeling equally full and ready for their next adventure. Formats: Blu-ray. (Well Go USA).

Nakom

(2017 -- Ghana) Jacob Ayanaba. Set in present day Ghana, Nakom follows Iddrisu, a talented medical student who is summoned home by his sister after their father's sudden death. Iddrisu reluctantly returns home to the village of Nakom, buries his father and temporarily assumes the head of the impoverished household and farm, inheriting not only the delicate task of planting a successful crop but also a debt left by the deceased patriarch that could destroy the family. Attempting to maintain part of his studies from the confines of a small hut, Iddrisu becomes increasingly frustrated with the incessant physical and emotional needs of those around him, the demanding toil of the land and lack of rain. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Corinth Films).

NCIS: The Eighteenth Season

(2020-21) Four-disc set with all 18 episodes of the series originally conceived as a spinoff of the American legal drama "JAG." "NCIS" has evolved into a major television franchise spread across three different series. Following a fictional team of special agents known as the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the show combines elements of police procedural dramas with military drama to create incredibly engaging episodes. Formats: DVD. (CBS/Paramount).

Notorious Nick

(2021) Cody Christian, Barry Livingston, Kevin Pollak, Elisabeth Röhm. Even though he was born with a partial left arm, Nick Newell (Christian) dreams of being a fighter. After wrestling in high school, Nick becomes a fierce competitor when his best friend, Abi, introduces him to mixed martial arts. Suddenly, a tragedy provides Nick with an unexpected opportunity, but to succeed he must commit to becoming the fighter he always hoped to be. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Lionsgate). Read more here.
photo for Original Cast Album: 'Company'

Original Cast Album: 'Company'

(1970) This holy grail for both documentary and theater aficionados offers a tantalizingly rare glimpse behind the Broadway curtain. In 1970, right after the triumphant premiere of Stephen Sondheim’s groundbreaking concept musical "Company", the renowned composer and lyricist, his director Harold Prince, the show’s stars, and a large pit orchestra all went into a Manhattan recording studio as part of a time-honored Broadway tradition: the recording of the original cast album. What ensued was a marathon session in which, with the pressures of posterity and the coolly exacting Sondheim’s perfectionism hanging over them, all involved pushed themselves to the limit -- including theater legend Elaine Stritch, who fought anxiety and exhaustion to record her iconic rendition of “The Ladies Who Lunch.” With thrilling immediacy, legendary filmmaker D. A. Pennebaker offers an up-close view of the larger-than-life personalities, frayed-nerve energy, and explosive creative intensity that go into capturing the magic of live performance. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, with new, restored 4K digital transfer, supervised by Chris Hegedus and Nate Pennebaker, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray. Extras: New audio commentary by composer-lyricist Stephen Sondheim; audio commentary from 2001 featuring director D. A. Pennebaker, actor Elaine Stritch, and Broadway producer Harold Prince; new conversation among Sondheim, orchestrator Jonathan Tunick, and critic Frank Rich; new interview with Tunick on the art of orchestrating, conducted by author Ted Chapin; never-before-heard audio excerpts from interviews with Stritch and Prince, conducted by D. A. Pennebaker and Hegedus in 2000; “Original Cast Album: ‘Co-Op,’” a 2019 episode of the TV series "Documentary Now!" that parodies the film; reunion of the cast and crew of “Original Cast Album: ‘Co-Op’” recorded in 2020, featuring director Alexander Buono, writer-actor John Mulaney, actors Rénee Elise Goldsberry, Richard Kind, Alex Brightman, and Paula Pell, and composer Eli Bolin; an essay by author Mark Harris. (The Criterion Collection).
photo for Riders of Justice

Riders of Justice

(2021) Mads Mikkelsen, Nikolaj Lie Kaas, Andrea Heick Gadeberg. Actioner follows recently-deployed Markus (Mikkelsen), who is forced to return home to care for his teenage daughter after his wife is killed in a tragic train accident. But, when a survivor of the wrecked train surfaces claiming foul play, Markus begins to suspect his wife was murdered and embarks on a mission to find those responsible. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. (Magnolia Home Entertainment).

Rogue Hostage

(2021) Tyrese Gibson, John Malkovich, Michael Jai White, Chris Backus, Holly Taylor. Single father and former Marine Kyle Snowden (Tyrese Gibson) must save his daughter and other hostages from a dangerous criminal who has trapped them inside a neighborhood store owned by Kyle's polarizing stepfather, Congressman Sam Nelson (John Malkovich). Formats: DVD, Blu-ray + Digital Code, Digital, VOD. (Lionsgate).

Shadow of the Thin Man BLU-RAY DEBUT

(1941) William Powell, Myrna Loy, Barry Nelson, Donna Reed. A jockey who threw a race is murdered in the locker room. With that, Nora and hubby Nick are off to the races on another case of murder, mirth and perfect martinis. Red herrings abound. Extras: Vintage short: "The Tell-Tale Heart," cartoon: "The Goose Goes South," theatrical trailer. (Warner Archive).

Shook

(2021) Daisye Tutor, Emily Goss, Nicola Posener, Mythica Series, Octavius J. Johnson. When Mia, a social media star, becomes the target of an online terror campaign, she’s forced to solve a series of games to prevent people she cares about from getting murdered. But is it real? Or is it just a game at her expense? Formats: DVD. (RLJE Films).

Stay Out of the Attic

(2020) Ryan Francis, Morgan Alexandria, Bryce Fernelius, Michael Flynn. A diverse group of ex-cons-turned-professional-movers are convinced by their creepy client to pull an all-nighter for a generous pay bump. It turns out their client is a Nazi surgeon, and his living experiments are rotting in the attic. As the night progresses and rooms are cleared, they slowly uncover the horrors that exist inside his old Victorian mansion. Together, they must find a way to escape this house of horrors. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. (RLJE Films).

Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat BLU-RAY DEBUT

(2019) David Carradine, Bruce Campbell, Maxwell Caulfield, Morgan Brittany, M. Emmet Walsh, John Ireland. The road to Purgatory is paved with good intentions, and Count Mardulak (Carradine) wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s seeking atonement for centuries of human carnage, which is why he’s instructed Purgatory’s vampire residents to slather on SPF 100 sunblock, pursue daytime activities ... and drink only synthetic blood. But some vampires don’t agree with Mardulak — they want the real thing — and if that means wooden bullets flying in a vampire civil war, so be it, in this wild horror-comedy. Extras: Commentary with director Anthony Hickox and director of photography Levie Isaacks; isolated score selections and audio interviews with music historian Randall Larson and producer Jefferson Richard; "Wild Weird West” interview with director Anthony Hickox; “Bloodsuckers From Purgatory” interview with special makeup effects creator Tony Gardner; “Memories of Moab” interview with actor Bruce Campbell; “A Vampire Reformed” interview with actor David Carradine; “A True Character” interview with actor M. Emmet Walsh; theatrical trailer; still gallery. (Vestron Video Collector’s Series/Lionsgate).
photo for The Water Man

The Water Man

(2021) David Oyelowo, Rosario Dawson, Lonnie Chavis, Amiah Miller, Alfred Molina, Maria Bello. In this fantasy adventure, Gunner (Chavis) sets out on a quest to save his ill mother (Dawson) by searching for a mythic figure who possesses the secret to immortality, the Water Man. After enlisting the help of a mysterious local girl, Jo (Miller), they journey together into the remote Wild Horse forest -- but the deeper they venture, the stranger and more dangerous the forest becomes. Their only hope for rescue is Gunner’s father (Oyelowo), who will stop at nothing to find them. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: "The Making of The Water Man," "Animation Behind-the-Scenes," Toronto International Film Festival Q&A, filmmaker commentary. (RLJE Films).



Back to top


August 24


photo for Ashes and Diamonds BLU-RAY DEBUT

Ashes and Diamonds BLU-RAY DEBUT

(1958 -- Poland) A milestone of Polish cinema, this electrifying international sensation by Andre Wadja -- the final film in his celebrated war trilogy -- entwines the story of one man’s moral crisis with the fate of a nation. In a small Polish town on the final day of World War II, Mace (the coolly charismatic Zbigniew Cybulski), a fighter in the underground anti-Communist resistance movement, has orders to assassinate an incoming commissar. But when he meets and falls for a young barmaid (Ewa Krzyzewska), he begins to question his commitment to a cause that requires him to risk his life. "Ashes and Diamonds’" lustrous monochrome cinematography -- wreathed in shadows, smoke, and fog -- and spectacularly choreographed set pieces lend a breathtaking visual dynamism to this urgent, incendiary vision of a country at a crossroads in its struggle for self-determination. Formats: Blu-ray, with new 4K digital restoration, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack. Extras: Audio commentary from 2004 featuring film scholar Annette Insdorf; new video essay by Insdorf on the film’s legacy; "Andre Wadja: On Ashes and Diamonds,” a 2005 program featuring director Andre Wadja, second director Janusz Morgenstern, and film critic Jerzy Plazewski; archival newsreel footage on the making of the film; an essay by film scholar Paul Coates. (The Criterion Collection).
photo for Blind Beast

Blind Beast

(1969 -- Japan) "Blind Beast" is a grotesque portrait of the bizarre relationship between a blind sculptor and his captive muse, adapted from a short story from Japan's foremost master of the macabre, Edogawa Rampo. An artist's model, Aki (Mako Midori), is abducted, and awakens in a dark warehouse studio whose walls are decorated with outsized women's body parts -- eyes, lips, legs and breasts -- and dominated by two recumbent giant statues of male and female nudes. Her kidnapper introduces himself as Michio (Eiji Funakoshi), a blind sculptor whom she had witnessed previously at an exhibition in which she featured intently caressing a statue of her naked torso. Michio announces his intention of using her to sculpt the perfect female form. At first defiant, she eventually succumbs to his intense fixation on her body and finds herself drawn into his sightless world, in which touch is everything. "Blind Beast" is a masterpiece of erotic horror that explores the all-encompassing and overwhelming relationship between the artist and his art and the obsessive closed world that the artist inhabits, with maestro director Yasuzo Masumura ("Giants and Toys," "Irezumi") conjuring up a hallucinogenic dreamworld in which sensual and creative urges combine with a feverish intensity. Formats: Blu-ray. Extras: New audio commentary by Asian cinema scholar Earl Jackson; newly filmed introduction by Japanese cinema expert Tony Rayns; "Blind Beast: Masumura the Supersensualist," a new visual essay by Japanese literature and visual studies scholar Seth Jacobowitz; original trailer; image gallery; reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella; FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated booklet featuring new writing by Virginie Sélavy. (Arrow Video/MVD Entertainment). Read more here.
photo for The Cannibal Man

The Cannibal Man

(1972 -- Spain) Vicente Parra, Emma Cohen, Eusebio Poncela. From subversive Spanish writer/director Eloy de la Iglesia comes the international hit and DPP 39 Video Nasty that remains among the most notorious and misunderstood shockers of the 70s: When a slaughterhouse worker accidentally kills a man during a fight, it triggers a desperate descent into madness and mass murder. Also known as "The Apartment on the 13th Floor" and "Week of the Killer." Features both the International and extended Spanish Version newly scanned from the original negatives for the first time ever. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: "Cinema at the Margins": author Stephen Thrower and film writer Dr. Shelagh Rowan-Legg on Eloy de la Iglesia; "The Sleazy and the Strange" interview with film critic Carlos Aguilar; deleted scenes; original theatrical trailer. (Severin Films).
photo for The Cat O' Nine Tails

The Cat O' Nine Tails

(1971) Following the success of his debut feature, "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage," distributor Titanus tasked writer-director Dario Argento with delivering a follow-up in short order. The resulting film, granted a greatly enhanced budget and heralded in its US marketing campaign as "nine times more suspenseful" than its predecessor, was "The Cat O' Nine Tails." When a break-in occurs at a secretive genetics institute, blind puzzle-maker Franco Arnò (Karl Malden), who overheard an attempt to blackmail one of the institute's scientists shortly before the robbery, teams up with intrepid reporter Carlo Giordani (James Franciscus) to crack the case. But before long the bodies begin to pile up and the two amateur sleuths find their own lives imperiled in their search for the truth. And worse still, Lori (Cinzia De Carolis), Franco's young niece, may also be in killer's sights. This second entry in the so-called "Animal Trilogy" found Argento further refining his distinctive style and cementing his reputation as the master of the giallo thriller. Featuring a nerve-jangling score by the great Ennio Morricone, "The Cat O' Nine Tails" remains one of Argento's most suspenseful and underrated films. New 4K restoration. Formats: 4K Ultra HD. Extras: Interviews; featurettes; commentaries; script pages for the lost original ending, translated into English for the first time; original Italian, international and US theatrical trailers; illustrated collector’s booklet featuring an original essay on the film by Dario Argento, and writing by Barry Forshaw, Troy Howarth and Howard Hughes; fold-out double-sided poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Obviously Creative; six double-sided, postcard-sized lobby card reproduction artcards; limited edition packaging with reversible sleeve featuring originally and newly commissioned artwork by Obviously Creative. (Arrow Video/MVD Entertainment). Read more here.

The Clockmaker of St. Paul

(1974 -- France) The debut feature of legendary director Bertrand Tavernier. Adapted from Georges Simenon’s novel "The Watchmaker of Everton" (1954), it stars Philippe Noiret as the unassuming title character, a man who begins to reexamine his life when his son is wanted for murder. Asked for help by the police inspector (Jean Rochefort), he realizes how little he knew about his son, and begins to seek out the truth hidden behind his family’s walls. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: New introduction by filmmaker Walter Hill, commentary by director Bertrand Tavernier, booklet with excerpts from Tavernier's memoir [Blu-ray only], interview with Tavernier and Philippe Noiret (2001), interview with Tavernier (2008), trailer. (Kino Classics).

The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It

photo for The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It A chilling story of terror, murder and unknown evil that shocked even experienced real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. One of the most sensational cases from their files, it starts with a fight for the soul of a young boy. After a cop stumbles upon a dazed and bloodied young man walking down the road, the suspect is accused of murder and claims demonic possession as his defense, forcing the Warrens into a supernatural inquiry unlike anything they've ever seen before. Vitals: Director: Michael Chaves. Stars: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Ruairi O’Connor, Sarah Catherine Hook, Julian Hilliard. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: R, 112 min., Horror, US box office gross: $63.177 million, worldwide $175.177 million, Warner. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray + Digital Code, 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Combo, VOD, Digital. Extras: "By Reason of Demonic Possession” in-depth look at the true story that inspired the movie. Blu-ray adds “The Occultist” featurette; “Exorcism of Fear” behind-the-scenes; “DC Horror Presents The Conjuring: The Lover #1” video comic that takes you deeper into the Conjuring Universe. Read more here. 2 stars
photo for The Dark: Collector's Edition

The Dark: Collector's Edition

(1979) William Devane, Cathy Lee Crosby, Richard Jaeckel, Keenan Wynn, Casey Kasem, Jacquelyn Hyde. In this chilling tale of alien terror, a writer (Devane) takes a personal interest in a series of baffling, shocking murders in Los Angeles ... and evidence suggests the suspect may not be human. Every night "The Mangler" stalks the streets, attacking and mutilating random victims. On the creature's trail is TV reporter Zoe Owens (Crosby) and police detective Dave Mooney (Jaeckel), but the truth behind the murders is far more strange and horrifying than they could ever imagine. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Audio commentary with producer Igo Kantor and director John “Bud” Cardos; interview with composer Roger Kellaway and Cardos; vintage Interview with Cardos; photo gallery; original theatrical trailer. (MVD Visual).

Dreambuilders

(2020 -- Denmark) Minna’s life is turned upside-down when her dad’s new fiancée and her daughter move in. Her new stepsister, Jenny, turns out to be horrible and Minna is very photo for Dreambuildersfrustrated. One night, Minna discovers a world behind her dreams, where the whimsical dreambuilders create every fantasy and nightmare we endure nightly on their theater stages. Minna also finds out how to manipulate Jenny’s dreams. But interfering with dreams has dire consequences … and when Minna goes too far one night, Jenny can’t wake up anymore. Minna must enter the dream world one more time to face the nightmare she has created in order to save Jenny and her new family. Animated feature. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo, VOD, Digital. (Shout! Kids). Read more here.

Evil Dead Trap

(1988 -- Japan) Miyuki Ono, Aya Katsuragi, Hitomi Kobayashi. A TV station employee takes a camera crew out to an abandoned factory to investigate a purported snuff film that was made there, only to end up running for her life. Formats: Blu-ray. New 4K scan restoration. Extras: Audio commentary with director Toshiharu Ikeda and SPFX manager Shinichi Wakasa; commentary by filmmaker Kurando Mitsutake ("Karate Kill," "Gun Woman"); commentary with James Mudge of Eastern Kicks; "Trappings of the Dead - Reflecting on a Japanese Cult Classic"; storyboards; behind-the-scenes stills; promotional artwork; trailer. (Unearthed Films). Read more here.
photo for The Fatal Raid

The Fatal Raid

(2019 -- Hong Kong) Jade Leung, Patrick Tam, Min-Chen Lin, Jeana Ho, Michael Ton. Two elite police teams head up a secret operation following a dangerous smuggling ring across the Macau border, but when their presence is discovered, the mission ends in a deadly firefight. Twenty years later, an escort mission brings the survivors back to the scene of the tragedy -- and fosters a highly unwelcome reunion. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. (Well Go USA).

Funhouse

(2019 -- Sweden) Valter Skarsgård, Gigi Saul Guerrero, Khamisa Wilsher, Christopher Gerard, Karolina Benefield. Down and out backup singer and celebrity ex-husband Kasper is invited to compete in the Funhouse, an online "Big Brother" style reality show. In an attempt to rebrand his image due to a tarnished reputation, Kasper reluctantly accepts the offer. Alongside seven other C-list celebrities from around the globe, he competes for a 5 million dollar prize. At first, the Funhouse is just as the name suggests, full of wild times, budding friendships, love connections, and brewing rivalries. But, to everyone’s surprise, the fun quickly turns into misery when the first challenge leaves one of the contestants brutally murdered. Formats: DVD, Digital, VOD. Extras: "Behind the Scenes of Funhouse," visual effects breakdown. (Magnet/Magnolia Home Entertainment). Read more here.

Habit

(2021) Bella Thorne, Gavin Rossdale, Paris Jackson, Josie Ho, Andreja Pejic. L.A. party girl Mads (Thorne) gets a gig running drugs for Eric, a washed-up Hollywood star. When their cash gets stolen and Eric is slain by a rival drug lord, Mads and her two sexy BFFs hide out by dressing up as nuns. But in spite of their costumes, these bad girls are no angels. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. (Lionsgate). Read more here.

Jurassic Hunt

(2021) Courtney Loggins, Ruben Pla, Tarkan Dospil, Joston Theney. In this pulse-pounding sci-fi thriller, female adventurer Parker joins a crew of male trophy hunters in a remote wilderness park. Their goal: slaughter genetically recreated dinosaurs for sport using rifles, arrows, and grenades. After their guide is killed by raptors, the team tries to escape the park – but the hunters quickly become the hunted. Even worse, the park’s manager suspects Parker of being a spy and sends a hit squad after her. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Lionsgate). Read more here.

NCIS: Los Angeles: The Twelfth Season

(2020-21) All 18 episodes. The 12th season finds Callen (Chris O’Donnell) and Sam (LL Cool J) continuing to take on dangerous, vital cases with international ties, while working to find balance as they each try to maintain new and blossoming relationships. Formats: DVD. (CBS/Paramount).
photo for One Dark Night: Collector's Edition

One Dark Night Collector's Edition

(1982) Meg Tilly, Melissa Newman, E.G. Daily, Adam West. World renowned psychic Raymar is found dead after announcing that he had uncovered the secret of how to become even more powerful in death by the use of telekinetic powers. At the same time, two high school girls plan an initiation night for their friend Julie (Tilly), who is determined to shed her "goody goody" image. Her test is to spend the night locked in the crypt - the same one that Raymar has been buried in that very day. The crypt soon becomes a battlefield of horror. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Audio commentary with director Tom McLoughlin and writer Michael Hawes; work print version of the film; commentary with McLoughlin and producer Michael Schroeder; interviews with McLoughlin, Schroeder, actress E.G. Daily, make-up person Paul Clemens, director of photography Hal Trussell, production designer Craig Stearns and Nancy McLoughlin. (MVD Visual).
photo for Overboard

Overboard

(1987) Director: Garry Marshall; Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Edward Herrmann, Katherine Helmond, Roddy McDowall. A cruel but beautiful heiress mocks and cheats a hired carpenter to do some work on her yacht. When she gets amnesia after accidentally falling overboard, he decides to introduce her to regular life by convincing her they're husband and wife -- in the process getting a mother for his four kids and a free housekeeper. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Interview with Screenwriter Leslie Dixon. (Severin Films).

Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway

(2021) In this live action/CGI sequel, the lovable rogue is back. Bea, Thomas, and the rabbits have created a makeshift family, but despite his best efforts, Peter can’t seem to shake his mischievous reputation. Adventuring out of the garden, Peter finds himself in a world where his mischief is appreciated, but when his family risks everything to come looking for him, Peter must figure out what kind of bunny he wants to be. Vitals: Director: Will Gluck. Stars: Rose Byrne, photo for Peter Rabbit 2: The RunawayDomhnall Gleeson, David Oyelowo, Elizabeth Debicki, Margot Robbie, James Corden. 2019, CC, MPAA rating: PG, 93 min., Family, US box office gross: $39.297 million, worldwide $145.297 million, Sony. Formats: DVD + Digital Code, Blu-ray + Digital Code, 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Combo, VOD, Digital. Extras: "Bunnies, Baddies, and the Big City: The Making of Peter Rabbit 2," "Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle's Wee Little Kitchen," "Bea's Crafting Corner: DIY Bunny Bookmarks," "Bea's Crafting Corner: Create Your Own Woodland Terrarium." Read more here. 3 stars

Prince of the City BLU-RAY DEBUT

(1981) Director: Sidney Lumet; Treat Williams, Jerry Orbach, Williams plays a New York City narcotics detective who reluctantly agrees to cooperate with a special commission investigating police corruption, and soon realises he's in over his head. He's plunged into a nightmare of conflicting moral issues in a world where nobody can be trusted. Extras: "The Real Story" featurette. (Warner Archive).



Back to top



August 31

photo for Beasts of No Nation

Beasts of No Nation

(2015 -- Ghana) The nightmare of war is seen through the eyes of one of its most tragic casualties -- a child soldier -- in this harrowing vision of innocence lost from Cary Joji Fukunaga. Based on the acclaimed novel by Uzodinma Iweala, "Beasts of No Nation" unfolds in an unnamed, civil-war-torn West African country, where the young Agu (Abraham Attah, in a haunting debut performance) witnesses carnage in his village before falling captive to a band of rebel soldiers led by a ruthless commander (an explosive Idris Elba), who molds the boy into a hardened killer. Fukunaga’s relentlessly roving camera work and stunning visuals -- realism so intensely visceral it borders on the surreal -- immerse the viewer in a world of unimaginable horror without ever losing sight of the powerful human story at its center. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, with 2K digital master, approved by director Cary Joji Fukunaga, with 5.1 surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack on the Blu-ray. Extras: New audio commentary featuring Fukunaga and first assistant director Jon Mallard; two new documentaries on the development and making of the film, featuring interviews with Fukunaga, author Uzodinma Iweala, actors Idris Elba and Abraham Attah, and producers Amy Kaufman, Daniela Taplin Lundberg, and Riva Marker; new conversation between Fukunaga and producer and cultural commentator Franklin Leonard; new interview with costume designer Jenny Eagan; trailer; an essay by film critic Robert Daniels. (The Criterion Collection).

Blue Bloods: The Eleventh Season

(2020-21) Four-disc set with all 11 episodes of the series that follows the Reagans, an Irish-American Catholic family in New York City with a history of work in law enforcement. Starring Tom Selleck as NYC Police Commissioner Frank Reagan, the cast also includes Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan, Will Estes, and Len Cariou. Shot on location in New York City. Formats: DVD. (CBS/Paramount).
photo for The Brotherhood of Satan

The Brotherhood of Satan

(1971) A small rural town and a family of outsiders, both trapped in the demonic grip of ... The Brotherhood of Satan. Recently widowed Ben, his glamourous girlfriend Nicky and his small daughter K.T. are on a road trip across the Southwest, which comes to a screeching halt when they witness an accident. Heading to the nearby isolated desert town of Hillsboro to report it to the Sheriff (L.Q. Jones), they are met with a hostile reaction from the locals, who are gripped by paranoia and fear due to a series of gruesome deaths, as well as the mysterious disappearance of 11 of the community's children. As the bodies continue to pile up around them, Ben and his family find themselves joining the sheriff, a local priest and the town's enigmatic physician Doc Duncan (Strother Martin) in the midst of a mystery that points towards a deadly satanic cult. Produced by Alvy Moore and L.Q. Jones, a veteran character actor best known for his work with Sam Peckinpah, "The Brotherhood of Satan" is an atmospheric and chilling tale of terror that provides a crucial missing link between "Rosemary's Baby" (1968) and "The Devil's Rain" (1975) in the cycle of turn-of-the-seventies shockers involving sinister devil-worshipping cults lurking within the dark shadows of modern-day America. Formats: Blu-ray. Extras: New audio commentary by writers Kim Newman and Sean Hogan; "Satanic Panic: How the 1970s Conjured the Brotherhood of Satan," a new visual essay by David Flint; "The Children of Satan," exclusive new interview with actors Jonathan Erickson Eisley and Alyson Moore; original trailers and TV and radio spots; image gallery; reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Richard Wells; FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated booklet featuring new writing by Johnny Mains and Brad Stevens. (Arrow Video/MVD Entertainment). Read more here.

Bugsy Malone BLU-RAY DEBUT

(1976) Acclaimed director Alan Parker redefined the movie musical with his first feature-length film, "Bugsy Malone," which celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. Available for the first time in the U.S. on Blu-ray, the film has been remastered from the original elements for this limited-edition release. The Blu-ray includes a new Filmmaker Focus delving into this early work from the director of "Fame," "The Commitments," "Pink Floyd: The Wall," "Mississippi Burning" and "Evita." Set in 1929 New York City, the film captures a flashy world of would-be hoodlums, showgirls, and dreamers -- all portrayed by child actors. As Tallulah, the sassy girlfriend of the owner of Fat Sam's Grand Slam Speakeasy, future superstar Jodie Foster leads a talented cast. Parker’s sharp script, combined with the music and lyrics of Paul Williams, makes for an irresistible satire that’s truly one-of-a-kind. The limited-edition Paramount Presents Blu-rays come in collectible packaging featuring a foldout image of each film’s theatrical poster and an interior spread with key movie moments. Each disc also includes access to a digital copy of the film. (Paramount Presents).
photo for Dune [Limited Edition}

Dune [Limited Edition}

(1984) Following a notorious aborted attempt by Alejandro Jodorowsky in the 1970s, Frank Herbert's bestselling sci-fi epic "Dune" finally made it to the big screen as the third film by emerging surrealist wunderkind David Lynch, featuring an all-star cast that includes several of Lynch's regular collaborators. The year is 10,191, and four planets are embroiled in a secret plot to wrest control of the Spice Melange, the most precious substance in the universe and found only on the planet Arrakis. A feud between two powerful dynasties, House Atreides and House Harkonnen, is manipulated from afar by ruling powers that conspire to keep their grip on the spice. As the two families clash on Arrakis, Duke Atreides' son Paul (Kyle MacLachlan, in his screen debut) finds himself at the center of an intergalactic war and an ancient prophecy that could change the galaxy forever. Though its initial reception ensured that Lynch largely eschewed mainstream filmmaking for the rest of his career, "Dune" has since been rightly re-evaluated as one of the most startlingly original and visionary science fiction films of the 1980s. Its astonishing production design and visual effects can now be appreciated anew in this spellbinding 4K restoration, accompanied by hours of comprehensive bonus features. Brand new 4K restoration from the original camera negative. 60-page perfect-bound book featuring new writing on the film by Andrew Nette, Christian McCrea and Charlie Brigden; large fold-out double-sided poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Dániel Taylor; six double-sided, postcard-sized lobby card reproductions; limited edition packaging with reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Dániel Taylor; commentaries; featurettes; interviews. Formats: 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray. Extras: (Arrow Video/MVD Entertainment). Read more here.

Fear The Walking Dead Season 6

(2020-21) Four-disc set with all 16 episodes. After being torn apart by the Pioneers, Morgan’s (Lennie James) group is now dispersed across their far-reaching settlements, with life behind the Pioneers’ walls testing each of the group’s members in different ways — and forcing them to define who they really are in this new world. As Morgan’s bid to free the remaining members of the group grows bolder, Virginia’s (Colby Minifie) desperation to find her sister accelerates, as does her need to protect the settlements from the enemy forces outside…and within. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. Extras: Commentaries. (Lionsgare).

In the Heights

photo for In the Heights (2021) Usnavi, a Dominican bodega owner in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City, longs for a nearby salon worker and fantasizes about a lavish return to the beaches of his homeland. Usnavi's childhood friend, Nina, a local success story, is back from her first year in college harboring a secret. Over the course of three days and through song, the residents of The Heights come together to move forward with a renewed sense of what it means to call a place "home." Based on the musical stage play by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Vitals: Director: Jon M. Chu. Stars: Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins, Leslie Grace, Melissa Barrera, Olga Merediz, Daphne Rubin-Vega, Gregory Diaz IV, Stephanie Beatriz, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Dascha Polanco, Jimmy Smits, Ariana Greenblatt, Marc Anthony. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 143 min., Musical, US box office gross: $28.828 million, worldwide $39.528 million, Warners. Formats: DVD + Digital Code, Blu-ray + Digital Code, 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Combo + Digital Code, VOD, Digital. Read more here. 2 stars

The Last Man on Earth

(1964) Vincent Price, Franca Bettola, Emma Danieli, Giacomo Rossi, Umbert Raho, Christi Courtland. Screen legend Vincent Price gives a masterful performance in this post-apocalyptic sci-fi chiller, the first and most faithful adaptation of Richard Matheson’s classic novel "I Am Legend." A plague envelops the earth, decimating the population and leaving one man still alive: scientist Robert Morgan (Price), who exhibits a strange immunity to the deadly disease. The rest of the earth’s people slowly turn into bloodsucking vampires and Morgan must use all of his knowledge to survive their onslaught. Directed by Sidney Salkow, this seminal classic influenced the creation of "Night of the Living Dead" plus countless imitations. Formats: Blu-ray. Extras: New audio commentary by Richard Harland Smith, "Trailers From Hell" with Joe Dante, "Richard Matheson Storyteller," two TV spots, alternate ending, Italian trailer. (Kino Lorber Studio Classics).

Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms

(2021) The fate of the universe once again hangs in the balance as warriors come together for one final clash in this all-new, feature-length animated film. This episode picks up shortly after the explosive finale of "Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge"; here the team of heroes are besieged by the enemy forces of Shao Kahn -- forcing Raiden and his group of warriors into a deal to compete in a final Mortal Kombat that will determine the fate of the realms. Now the heroes must travel to Outworld in order to defend Earthrealm and, simultaneously, Scorpion must find the ancient Kamidogu before it's used to resurrect the One Being – which would mean certain destruction of all things in the universe. Formats: Blu-ray, 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Combo, Digital. Extras: "The God and the Dragon: Battling For Earthrealm" featurette, "Voices of Kombat" featurette, "Kombat Gags" gag reel, commentary. (Warner).

NCIS: New Orleans: The Final Season

(2020-21) All 16 episodes of the seventh and final season. The 7th season of NCIS: New Orleans finds Pride (Scott Bakula) and the team fighting for justice in their beloved city as New Orleans grapples with the effects of COVID-19. Pride, seeing how the pandemic has overwhelmed the system, finds creative ways to help his neighbors with the assistance of Rita Devereaux (Chelsea Field), and is asked by the Mayor to be a part of a special task force assigned to help make actual change in their city. Also, Wade (CCH Pounder) is overwhelmed by the high volume in the morgue due to COVID-19, Hannah (Necar Zadegan) shoulders being separated from her daughter, and Tammy (Vanessa Ferlito) and Carter (Charles Michael Davis) investigate a suspicious death aboard a humanitarian ship offshore, where they learn that some crew members are infected with the deadly virus. Formats: DVD. (CBS/Paramount).

Spirit Untamed

photo for Spirit Untamed (2021) An animated story of adventure, family and friendship. Free-spirited Lucky Prescott moves to Miradero to join her estranged father, but she's decidedly unimpressed with the sleepy town until she discovers a unique tie to her late mother who was a fearless horse-riding stunt performer. She quickly forms a bond with a wild mustang named Spirit and makes two new pals who love horses as much as she does. When a heartless wrangler plans to capture Spirit and his herd, Lucky and her friends set off on a journey to rescue the horse who has given her an unbreakable connection to her mother’s legacy. Vitals: Director: Elaine Bogan. Stars: Voices of Isabela Merced, Marsai Martin, Eiza González, Mckenna Grace, Walter Goggins, Andre Braugher, Julianne Moore, Jake Gyllenhaal. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: PG, 88 min., Animated Family, US box office gross: $17.635 million, worldwide $38.571 million, DreamWorks/Universal. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Code, VOD, Digital. Extras: Deleted and extended scenes; "Finding Your Spirit" cast and filmmaker featurette; "Behind the Voices – The Cast"; "Cowgirls Rule"; "Drawing Spirit – Spirit Untamed"; "Create Your Own Indoor ‘Campfire'" using crepe paper and LED lights; "How to Ukelele"; "Snack Time – S’mores"; "Abigail’s Hand Shadow Secrets"; "How To Zoetrope"; sing-alongs; commentary with director Elaine Bogan, co-director Ennio Torresan, and producer Karen Foster. Read more here. 2 stars

Summer of 85

(2020 -- France) From one of France’s most prolific and versatile filmmakers, François Ozon ("Potiche," "Frantz," "Swimming Pool"), comes this acclaimed reverie on first love and the impassioned influence it holds over those who experience it. It’s based the landmark 1982 LGBT young adult novel "Dance on My Grave" by British author Aidan Chambers. When Alexis (Félix Lefebvre) capsizes off the coast of Normandy, David (Benjamin Voisin) comes to the rescue and soon opens the younger boy’s eyes to a new horizon of friendship, art and sexual bliss. David’s worldly demeanor and Jewish heritage deliver a jolt to Alexis’s traditional, working class upbringing. Their relationship is soon rocked by a host of challenges, including an unexpected sexual rival (Philippine Velge) and a romantic oath that transcends life itself. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. (Music Box Films). Read more here.

Three Men to Kill: Two Newly Restored Films By Jacques Deray

The Gang (1977 -- France): In 1945, as World War II comes to a close, five small time crooks unite to form a gang lead by the charismatic Alain Delon. After several bold robberies they become notorious as “the front-wheel drive gang.” The police attempt to stop their crime spree with little success, but how long will their luck last? Three Men to Kill (1980 -- France): In this Gritty, violent and suspenseful thriller, Delon plays Gerfaut who comes to the aid of a man laying wounded in the road, not knowing the man has taken two bullets to the belly. Soon he becomes the target for the killers, who see him as a dangerous witness. But Gerfaut has been around the block a couple of times and he won’t be so easily eliminated. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. (Cohen Film Collection).

Truth to Power

(2021) Millions fill stadiums across the world for the sound of Serj Tankian, the Grammy-winning lead singer of System of a Down. With exclusive interviews, adventures, and original footage personally filmed by Serj, this documentary allows audiences backstage access to an international rock star whose faith in music not only revolutionized heavy metal, but also world events. Throughout his life, the musician has pursued social justice, harnessing the power of his songs and celebrity for real political change. Serj’s voice is equally likely to take on American corporate greed as lambast the corrupt regime of his homeland. His decades-long campaign for formal U.S. recognition of the Armenian Genocide was finally approved by Congress in 2019. Governments hate him. People love him. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray. (Oscilloscope Laboratories).

12 Mighty Orphans

photo for 12 Mighty Orphans (2021) The true story of the Mighty Mites, the football team of a Fort Worth orphanage who, during the Great Depression, went from playing without shoes or even a football to playing for the Texas state championships. Over the course of their winning season these underdogs and their resilient spirit became an inspiration to their city, state, and an entire nation in need of a rebound, even catching the attention of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The architect of their success was Rusty Russell, a legendary high school coach who shocked his colleagues by giving up a privileged position so he could teach and coach at an orphanage. Few knew Rusty's secret: that he himself was an orphan. Recognizing that his scrawny players couldn't beat the other teams with brawn, Rusty developed innovative strategies that would come to define modern football. Vitals: Director: Ty Roberts. Stars: Luke Wilson, Vinessa Shaw, Wayne Knight, Jake Austin Walker, Jacob Lofland, Levi Dylan, Robert Duvall, Martin Sheen. 2021, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 118 min., Drama, US box office gross: $3.238 million, worldwide $3.238 million, Sony. Formats: DVD, Blu-ray, VOD, Digital. Extras: Deleted scenes Read more here. 2 stars

A Wake

(2021) Noah Urrea, Kolton Stewart, Sofia Rosinsky, Megan Trout. LGBTQ family drama follows a religious family as they gather to mourn the loss of one of their own, resulting in a clash between the children and parents, and revelations that will shake them all to their cores. Formats: DVD, VOD, Digital. (Breaking Glass Pictures). Read more here.



Back to top

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.


E-mail OnVideo


| Home | Resources | DVD Releases | Calendar |
| Links |


E-mail: mail@onvideo.org
© 1996 -- 2021 OnVideo. All rights reserved
August 18, 2021
(ISSN 1094-3676).
Custom Search