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Delmar Daves' 'Broken Arrow' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The 1950 western starring James Stewart is headed for Blu-ray next year. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Kino is working on 'Broken Arrow' for Blu-ray in 2017. Nominated for three Academy Awards, Broken Arrow is a landmark western for its compassionate portrayal of Native Americans. The year is 1870, and former Union soldier Tom Jeffords (James Stewart) is recruited to remove a tribe of Apache warriors who have been interfering with U.S. mail delivery. But Jeffords refuses, preferring to learn about Apache culture in order to attempt a peace treaty. Not only does Apache chief Cochise (Jeff Chandler) promise at least temporary peace by "breaking the arrow," but Jeffords falls in love with - and marries - a Native American woman (Debra Paget). Tragedy strikes, however, and it is now Cochise's challenge to stop Jeffords from acting out in vengeance in this classic western "with plenty of action" (Daily Variety) that is also a compelling love story. The Blu-ray will feature a new 2K transfer and supplements include trailers and more. You can find the latest specs for 'Broken Arrow' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under PENDING.Posted Thu Dec 1, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Paul Schrader's 'Dog Eat Dog' Blu-ray Detailed[teaser]The crime thriller starring Nicolas Cage, Willem Dafoe, and Christopher Matthew Cook planned for Blu-ray this December has now been detailed. [/teaser] As previously reported, Image Entertainment is working on 'Dog Eat Dog' for Blu-ray on December 27. The story of three men who are all out of prison and now have the task of adapting themselves to civilian life. The California three strikes law looms over them, but what the hell, they're going to do it, and they're going to do it their way. Troy, an aloof mastermind, seeks an uncomplicated, clean life but cannot get away from his hatred for the system. Diesel is on the mob's payroll and his interest in his suburban home and his nagging wife is waning. The loose cannon of the trio, Mad Dog, is possessed by true demons within, which lead him from one situation to the next. One more hit, one more jackpot, and they'll all be satisfied. The release will feature 1080p video, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: Nicolas Cage Video Introduction for TIFF; BeyondFest Q&A with Nicolas Cage and Paul Schrader; Audio Commentary with Director Paul Schrader; and a Photo Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'Dog Eat Dog' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under December 27. Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
High-Def Digest Essentials: November 2016Every month, dozens of Blu-rays hit shelves, littering stores with High-Def temptation. New releases, catalog titles, complete TV seasons, and elaborate box-sets all vie for attention, and with so many worthy releases targeting our wallets, choosing which discs to spend our hard earned cash on can be rather tricky. To make things a little easier, we here at High-Def Digest thought it might be helpful to bring you our top three must own recommendations for the month. From important classics to contemporary blockbusters, these are the discs that we consider to be the absolute cream of the crop. High quality releases with great video, audio, and supplements, these are the Blu-rays that are truly worth every penny. Last month we spotlighted a chilling sci-fi/horror classic, a blood-soaked prom date, and a rivetting murder mystery. Be sure to check out the Essential Picks for November 2012, December 2012, January 2013,February 2013, March 2013, April 2013, May 2013, June 2013, July 2013, August 2013, September 2013, October 2013, November 2013, December 2013, January 2014, February 2014, March 2014, April 2014, May 2014, June 2014, July 2014, August 2014, September 2014, October 2014, November 2014,December 2014, January 2015, February 2015, March 2015, April 2015, May 2015, June 2015, July 2015, August 2015, September 2015, October 2015, November 2015, December 2015, January 2016, February 2016, March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, June 2016, July 2016, August 2016, September 2016, and October 2016. [teaser]For November, we're covering a stop-motion fairy tale, a slippery lawyer, and the approaching winds of winter.[/teaser] Please be aware, that if you haven't already seen them, there are some SPOILERS for the discs listed. If you only buy three titles that hit Blu-ray in November, here's what we suggest you pick up, starting with the most essential... 'Kubo and the Two Strings' - Strictly speaking, all movies are shot one frame at a time, but stop-motion animation takes this reality to another level. Marked by a painstaking attention to detail and a staggering dedication to craft, when done right, the art form is capable of breathing life into some truly beautiful films. And 'Kubo and the Two Strings' just might be one of the genre's most beautiful creations yet. An emotional, stirring, entertaining, and absolutely gorgeous celebration of storytelling, love, and human connection, the movie weaves a unique fairy tale adventure filled with talking monkeys, warrior beetles, skeleton monsters, and magical instruments. Using a classic fantasy adventure structure as its backbone, the film takes audiences of all ages on a mesmerizing journey as young Kubo (Art Parkinson) sets out to find magical armor in order to protect himself from his evil grandfather and aunts. Along the way we meet a couple of fun characters who aid our hero on his quest, encounter several obstacles, learn a few lessons, and eventually face the enemy in a harrowing battle. But while these simple beats are all pretty standard, the execution is nearly flawless and absolutely brimming with personality. Rooted in its own unique folklore, the movie easily establishes its magical world, and the mixture of stop-motion and CG animation creates a breathtakingly singular style with striking character designs, affecting expressions, and exciting action. And beneath all these sumptuous visuals are several powerful themes about family, memories, and love, adding depth and surprisingly complex emotion to the narrative. Of course, like all stories, 'Kubo' does ultimately come to an end, but as the film so sweetly reveals, ends don't have to be tragic, as all tales live on through those left to tell them. And I have a feeling this one will continue to be told for many years to come -- especially since this Blu-ray makes sharing it a breeze. A must own family film and a great disc through and through, this title belongs on every family's shelf. But as Kubo says throughout the film, "If you must blink, do it now," because you won't want to miss a single frame. Buy the Blu-ray Buy the Blu-ray 3D 'Better Call Saul: The Complete Second Season' - With its first season, 'Better Call Saul' had a lot to accomplish. As a spinoff of the late, great 'Breaking Bad,' the show had to not only demonstrate that it could turn an amusing in small-bursts supporting player like Saul Goodman into a full fledged protagonist, but it also had to somehow pull its way out of the giant shadow cast by its critically acclaimed predecessor (and his hat). But even with the odds stacked against them, good old "Slipping Jimmy" and company pulled it off without a hitch, offering a compelling tragicomic crime tale marked by an increasingly gripping character study. And with the series' second season, the show continues to expand upon its own unique style and voice through a truly masterful display of small-screen storytelling, proving that the first season's success was far more than just some simple con. As Jimmy (Bob Odenkirk) is thrust into a legitimate (and handsomely paid) position with a prestigious firm, we finally get to see what it's like when he plays by the rules... at least, for a little while. Adhering to that age old adage about a tiger and its stripes, it's not long before our lovable hero is back to his old tricks, practicing a decidedly more "colorful" brand of law. But despite his occasional transgressions, it's impossible not to root for the guy. He knows who he is and acts accordingly and, more importantly, almost always for the right reasons -- even if his methods are a bit unconventional. We cringe as we inevitably watch him make the same mistakes, but still can't help but be impressed by how he almost pulls it all off. Ironically, his heaviest character flaws end up being fueled by many of the same attributes that define his greatest strengths -- creativity, compassion, and a surprisingly steadfast work ethic. And just as season two helps to flesh out Jimmy, these episodes also do a great job of further developing the supporting cast, adding new tantalizing shades of depth to Chuck and Mike. But as impressive as the entire cast is, it's really Rhea Seehorn who steals the show. As Jimmy's potential business partner and love interest, Kim, the actress crafts a strikingly nuanced, delicately complex, and effortlessly believable performance that slowly reveals more layers throughout the season. Cementing itself as one of best written shows on TV, 'Better Call Saul' has fully carved an identity of its own, using elements of its parent series to establish its world while still expanding upon specific connections in order to fill in some intriguing gaps left from 'Breaking Bad.' And more than just expertly plotted, the season is also full of meaningful style, including a fantastic extended shot sequence and two masterful, character illuminating montages. Jimmy still might not be "Saul Goodman" just yet, but the path that leads him there is only growing increasingly absorbing (and slippery) with every episode. Buy the Blu-ray 'Game of Thrones: The Complete Sixth Season' - Throughout the years, 'Game of Thrones' has made quite a habit of killing off numerous important characters -- and usually in rather shocking, gruesome, and sudden ways, often leaving audiences wondering how the show will continue. But with its sixth season, the series introduces one of its riskiest plot developments yet. And ironically, it doesn't come in the form of another untimely death. It actually comes from a resurrection. In a notable break from Westerosi convention, the writers actually bring a recently axed character back to life, and though certain elements of his return are anticlimactic, it turns out that rebirth can be just as compelling as dismemberment. While the details behind Jon's return prove to be predictable, and it remains to be seen whether he suffers from any lasting consequences as a result of his demise, his resulting arc leads to one of the series' most epic and absolutely breathtaking showdowns while also paving the way for even more exciting developments in the future. Thanks to Bran's new penchant for time travel, one of the show's (and books') longest running theories is finally confirmed: L + R does indeed appear to equal J, as we bear witness to the birth of Jon Snow from his mother, Lyanna Stark. The ramifications of this reveal will likely go on to fuel much of the show's endgame, as Jon's true heritage could prove both useful and troublesome for a certain Mother of Dragons. And speaking of Dany, the season's closing moments present fans with an image many were starting to think they may never see, offering an appropriately grandiose tease of Daenerys' army finally crossing the Narrow Sea. There are some lulls along the way, but as we watch King's Landing burst into flame, Cercei take the Iron Throne, and three dragons soaring over the ocean, any occasional hiccups become easily forgivable. And at the very least, we get to spend mercifully little time in Dorne. With just two shortened seasons and a total of about thirteen episodes left, 'Game of Thrones' really has reached the beginning of the end -- and as the first chapter in the series' third act, season six offers another stellar batch of episodes. Likewise, this Blu-ray collections continues to maintain the high standards set by previous releases, providing a fantastic video transfer, an amazing Dolby Atmos soundtrack, and lots of great supplements. Though really, "Battle of the Bastards" almost makes this set a must buy on its own -- even if I do still wish Rickon would have just zigzagged! Buy the Blu-ray So, there you have it. While there were many titles worth picking up this November, those are our top three must own recommendations. We'll be back next month with three more essential picks, but for now, what do you think of our selection? What are your choices for November's must own titles?Posted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 08:25 AM PST by: -
'Dead of Winter' Blu-ray Supplements Detailed[teaser]The bonus features for the 1987 thriller starring Mary Steenburgen and Roddy McDowall arriving on Blu-ray in the new year have now been detailed. [/teaser] As previously reported, Scream Factory is preparing 'Dead of Winter' for Blu-ray on January 10. Katie McGovern will do anything to make it as an actress…even if it kills her. Academy Award winner Mary Steenburgen and Roddy McDowell star in the chilling Dead Of Winter. When struggling actress Katie (Steenburgen) is offered the opportunity to replace an actress who has suffered an emotional breakdown during a film shoot, she jumps at the chance for the role of a lifetime. Arriving at the filming location – an isolated mansion in upstate New York – and getting to know her two mysterious benefactors, Dr. Lewis (Jan Rubes, Witness), and Mr. Murray (McDowell, Fright Night), she begins to suspect there's more to the story… but she can't quite put her finger on it. As the pieces fall into place and the weather outside turns frightful, Katie's quest for stardom becomes a fight for survival in this twisty thriller from the director of Bonnie & Clyde. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: NEW Interview With Actress Mary Steenburgen; Original Theatrical Trailer; TV Spots; and Still Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'Dead of Winter' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 10. Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
Mike Flanagan's 'Ouija: Origin of Evil' Blu-ray Detailed[teaser]The horror film being summoned to Blu-ray in January has now been fully detailed. [/teaser] As previously reported, Universal says 'Ouija: Origin of Evil' will be available on Blu-ray on January 17. It was never just a game. Inviting audiences again into the lore of the spirit board, Ouija: Origin of Evil tells a terrifying new tale in 1967 Los Angeles. A widowed mother and her two daughters add a new stunt to bolster their séance scam business and unwittingly invite authentic evil into their home. When the youngest daughter is overtaken by the merciless spirit, this small family confronts unthinkable fears to save her and send her possessor back to the other side. The release will feature 1080p video, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: The Making of Ouija: Origin of Evil; Home Is Where the Horror Is; The Girl Behind Doris; and Feature Commentary with Director/Co-Writer/Editor Mike Flanagan. You can find the latest specs for 'Ouija: Origin of Evil' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under January 17. Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
'Seasons' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The 2015 documentary will be getting the Blu-ray treatment in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Music Box Films is working on 'Seasons' for Blu-ray on February 21. After traveling the world alongside migrating birds ('Winged Migration') and diving the oceans with whales and manta rays ('Oceans'), Jacques Perrin and Jacques Cluzaud return to more familiar ground: the lush green forests and megafauna that emerged across Europe following the last Ice Age. Winter had gone on for 80,000 years when—in a relatively short period of time—the ice retreated, the landscape metamorphosed, the cycle of seasons was established, and the beasts occupied their new kingdom. It was only later that man arrived to share this habitat, first tentatively as migratory hunter/gatherers, then making inroads in the forest as settled agriculturalists, and later more dramatically via industry and warfare. With its exceptional footage of animals in the wild, 'Seasons' is the awe-inspiring and thought-provoking tale of the long and tumultuous shared history that inextricably binds humankind with the natural world. You can find the latest specs for 'Seasons' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under February 21.Posted Tue Nov 29, 2016 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
'The Survivor' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The 1981 horror is planned for Blu-ray in January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Severin says 'The Survivor' will be available on Blu-ray on January 10. When a 747 crash lands in a Sydney suburb -- a still-spectacular sequence that helped make this the most expensive Australian film of its time -- the inferno kills everyone on board except the pilot (Robert Powell of Jesus of Nazareth and Tommy) who emerges from the wreckage miraculously unscathed. But as a local psychic (Jenny Agutter of An American Werewolf in London) begins to communicate with the spirits of the doomed passengers, it will unlock a nightmare of madness, murder and supernatural horror. Hollywood legend Joseph Cotten in his final film performance co-stars in this shocker directed by British film icon David Hemmings (Blow-Up) and produced by Ozploitation maverick Antony I. Ginnane (Thirst, Turkey Shoot), featuring haunting cinematography by Academy Award winner John Seale (The English Patient, Mad Max: Fury Road) and now transferred in 2K HD for the first time ever. The release will feature a new 2K restoration and supplements include: Not Quite Hollywood Extended Interviews with Producer Antony I. Ginnane and Cinematographer John Seale; The Legacy of James Herbert; Robert Powell on James Herbert - Archive TV Special On Location Featuring Interviews with Stars Joseph Cotten and Peter Sumner; Archive TV Interview with David Hemmings; Archive TV Interview with David Hemmings and Robert Powell; Antony I. Ginnane Trailer Reel; and TV Spot. You can find the latest specs for 'The Survivor' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 10. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Nov 29, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
'Slumber Party Massacre II / Slumber Party Massacre III' Blu-ray Features Revealed[teaser]The double feature will be available in stores early next year. [/teaser] As previously reported, Scream Factory is working on 'Slumber Party Massacre II / Slumber Party Massacre III' for Blu-ray on January 17. Slumber Party Massacre II - Courtney, the younger sister of the "new girl across the street" in the first film is all grown up now, but suffers from nightmares about the Big Wet Incident. She and the other members of her female rock group go to a condo for the weekend to play music and have fun with their boyfriends. Courtney's dreams are of her sister, who is in a mental institution, warning her of having sex, and the dreams begin to spill into real life, threatening Courtney and her friends as they begin experiencing an attrition problem. Slumber Party Massacre III - After a hard day of volleyball at the beach, a teen whose parents are away decides to have a slumber party with her girlfriends. Their boyfriends predictably show up to scare them, but a stranger from the beach is also seen lurking around the house. Soon the group begins experiencing an attrition problem. The release will feature the original 76 minute R-Rated Version (HD) and Extended 85 minute Unrated Cut (Standard Definition) of Slumber Party Massacre II, the original 75 minute R-Rated Version (HD) and Extended 87 minute Unrated Cut (HD with standard definition inserts) of Slumber Party Massacre III, and supplements include: Slumber Party Massacre II Audio Commentary with writer/director/producer Deborah Brock, producer Don Daniel and story editor Beverly Gray; Sleepless Nights: Revisiting the Slumber Party Massacres – a three-part documentary; Slumber Party Massacre III Audio Commentary with director Sally Mattison, actress Hope Marie Carlton, Brandi Burkett and story editor Beverly Gray; Trailers; and Still Galleries. You can find the latest specs for 'Slumber Party Massacre II / Slumber Party Massacre III' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 17. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Nov 29, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Ken Russell's 'The Lair of the White Worm' Blu-ray Announced[teaser]The Vestron Video classic comes to high-definition this January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate says 'The Lair of the White Worm' will hit Blu-ray on January 31. James D'Ampton (Hugh Grant) returns to his country castle in England. Legend has it that James' distant ancestor once slayed the local dragon- a monstrous white worm with a fondness for the sweet flesh of virgins. The young Lord dismisses the legend as folklore, until archaeology student, Angus Flint, unearths a massive reptilian skull and the ancient worship site of a pagan snake god on James' property. When James' virtuous girlfriend, Eve (Catherine Oxenburg), suddenly disappears, he and Angus set out to investigate the foreboding cavern said to be the worm's lair where a centuries-old mystery begins to uncoil. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: Two Audio Commentaries: Director Ken Russell, Lisi Russell, in conversation with Film Historian Matthew Melia; 'Worm Food: The Effects of The Lair of the White Worm' featurette; 'Cutting for Ken' an Interview with Editor Peter Davies; 'Mary, Mary' an interview with Actress Sammi Davis; 'Trailers from Hell' featuring Producer Dan Ireland; Theatrical Trailers; and Still Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'The Lair of the White Worm' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 31. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Nov 29, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
High-Def Digest's Holiday Movie Round-Up - Part 1: The Top 10 ClassicsI have a lot of favorite movies, but do I watch them all once a year? Not a chance. And yet somehow I make time every holiday season to cozy up to a handful of classic yuletide films. There's just something warm and comforting about revisiting these iconic motion pictures, all of which transmit the same timeless messages of hope, kinship, and joy. Between 1927 and 1970, Hollywood produced enough Christmas movies to fill Santa's sack a few times over. Not all stand the test of time, but after much consideration, [teaser]High-Def Digest has compiled a Top 10 List of holiday classics that are readily available on Blu-ray and well worth an annual spin.[/teaser] Whether tuneful or tear-jerking, comic or romantic, all of them are perennial favorites. So pour the hot chocolate (or maybe a brandy), light the fire, grab a blanket, and enjoy these highly recommended seasonal discs. It just won't be Christmas without them. #10 - 'Remember the Night' (1940) Arguably the most obscure title on this list, 'Remember the Night' is a little-known, understated gem. Written by Preston Sturges, who masterfully mixes comedy, romance, and pathos, and delicately directed by Mitchell Leisen, this affecting trifle focuses on a suspected shoplifter (Barbara Stanwyck) who's given a Christmas furlough by a guilt-ridden D.A. (Fred MacMurray) who can't bear to see her stuck in jail over the holidays. The two travel to his mother's Indiana home, where the cynical, street-wise dame experiences first-hand the type of close-knit family life that has eluded her. Over the course of a few days, they grow close, but what happens after Christmas is over and he's forced to prosecute her? Though some of the comedy is a bit dated, the intimacy and warmth remain palpable, thanks to the sensitive performances of Stanwyck, MacMurray, Beulah Bondi, and a first-rate supporting cast. As I wrote in my review of the film, "the best things come in small packages, and 'Remember the Night' is a winsome holiday surprise - unassuming in presentation, yet strangely wondrous." #9 - 'Christmas in Connecticut' (1945) Five years after 'Remember the Night,' Stanwyck made another Christmas picture with a higher profile. In this breezy, World War II-era romantic romp she plays a Martha Stewart-like domestic diva who's roped into hosting a serviceman on leave over the holidays. The only problem is her finely crafted persona is a total sham (she can't even fry an egg!), and if her publisher gets wind of her deception, she'll be fired. What ensues is a madcap Christmas packed with countless complications that conspire to unmask her, not the least of which is her burgeoning affection for the GI (Dennis Morgan) who buys her phony act hook, line, and sinker. An adept comedienne, Stanwyck shines in an energetic portrayal, and she receives priceless support from Sydney Greenstreet, S.Z. Sakall, and Reginald Gardiner. A few laugh-out-loud lines and lovely chemistry between Stanwyck and Morgan make this chipper rom com a fun diversion for the whole family. #8 - 'The Bishop's Wife' (1947) Though Hollywood's most famous guardian angel will be properly saluted in a subsequent entry in this list, Dudley, a do-right spirit played by a dapper Cary Grant, checks in at #2. He spontaneously appears during the Christmas season to help Henry (David Niven), a beleaguered minister, and his put-upon wife, Julia (Loretta Young), who fears her husband's preoccupation with building a cathedral is destroying their marriage. As pressures mount, Julia grows closer to Dudley (who she believes to be human), which sends Henry into a jealous pique. This charming fantasy deftly explores this odd triangle with gentle humor and honest emotion, blending romance with inspiration as Dudley enlightens not only Henry and Julia, but also others in their intimate circle. Shot with ethereal grace and punctuated by fine performances, 'The Bishop's Wife' is a heartwarming tale that's simple and meaningful. #7 - 'Scrooge' (1970) Albert Finney was only 34 years old when he tackled the venerable role of Ebenezer Scrooge in this musical version of Charles Dickens' classic 'A Christmas Carol,' but he nails the part, embracing the legendary miser's bitter loneliness, sour attitude, and - at last - giddy delight after he's redeemed by a trio of spirits one spooky Christmas Eve in Victorian London. Unlike other interpretations of Scrooge, Finney plays the character as both a young man and aged curmudgeon (check out the picture below), and several memorable songs by Leslie Bricusse enhance the familiar story, both heightening its sense of loss and regret and infusing it with an infectious vim and vigor. Purists may occasionally cry foul, but 'Scrooge,' which features cameos by a gallery of Britain's finest actors, including Alec Guinness as Jacob Marley, is an unqualified delight that captivates the senses and warms the cockles of our hearts. #6 - 'White Christmas' (1954) Packed to the gills with Irving Berlin tunes, including the iconic title song, spiked with terpsichore, and dressed to the nines with gorgeous Technicolor, 'White Christmas' is the type of splashy, sumptuous fare that painlessly injects everyone with a jolt of holiday spirit. Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera-Ellen, and Rosemary Clooney make a winning quartet, singing and dancing to more than a dozen Berlin standards as they mount a stage show designed to save the struggling Vermont inn of a crusty Army general (Dean Jagger) who's fallen on hard times. Snappy dialogue, eye-popping production numbers, and a sprinkling of sentiment keep the film's engine humming, and a Crosby-Kaye drag duet of 'Sisters' is a definite comic highlight. No matter how many times you see it, it's impossible not to dream of a white Christmas after seeing this festive, entertaining film. #5 - 'Meet Me in St. Louis' (1944) Only a third of this wonderful Technicolor musical takes place at Christmas, but the sequence is so memorable, it makes an indelible impression. Countless singers have recorded 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,' but the incomparable Judy Garland introduces it here, wistfully singing it to a weepy Margaret O'Brien, and hers is the definitive version. This year-in-the-life chronicle of the generically named Smiths, who eagerly anticipate the 1904 World's Fair, is oh-so-identifiable as it addresses the simple yet timeless issues of home, faith, and the ties that bind, while perfectly depicting the dynamics of an average American family. Other great songs like 'The Boy Next Door' and 'The Trolley Song,' marvelous performances, and impeccable direction by Vincente Minnelli make this uplifting film appealing any season of the year, but especially around the holidays. #4 - 'Holiday Inn' (1942) A dozen years before 'White Christmas,' Irving Berlin penned the song that would spawn that film, and Bing Crosby unforgettably introduces it in 'Holiday Inn.' The anthem became an instant classic and so did this sprightly movie about an inn that only opens on holidays and the rivalry between two men (Crosby and Fred Astaire) who love the same girl (Marjorie Reynolds). Great numbers abound, almost all of which are paired to various holidays throughout the year (Astaire's Fourth of July firecracker dance is a highlight), and plenty of comedy fuels the narrative, but it's the easygoing chemistry between Crosby and Astaire and that iconic shot of Bing crooning 'White Christmas' at the piano in front of a roaring fire that make this marvelous seasonal musical truly sing. #3 - 'Miracle on 34th Street' (1947) If you've ever doubted the existence of Santa Claus, 'Miracle on 34th Street' will make you believe all over again. Writer-director George Seaton's inspired and incisive script about a department store Santa (Edmund Gwenn) who swears he's the real Kris Kringle - and is willing to go to court to prove it - won an Oscar, and Gwenn was named Best Supporting Actor for his whimsical and endearing portrayal. A young Natalie Wood made a name for herself as the cynical child who tries to call his bluff and Maureen O'Hara files arguably her most memorable performance as her matter-of-fact mother who falls for the affable lawyer (John Payne) who takes up Santa's cause. Terrific supporting turns by Gene Lockhart, Jerome Cowan, William Frawley, and especially Thelma Ritter add extra zing to one of Hollywood's snappiest and most inventive holiday films. As I wrote in 2009, "Filled with humor, honest sentiment, and enough seasonal cheer to perk up Ebenezer Scrooge, this timeless classic…never gets stale." #2 - 'A Christmas Carol' (1951) Charles Dickens' timeless Christmas ghost story has been filmed several times, but the best adaptation not surprisingly comes from the Brits. This version, which embraces the tale's dark elements and flaunts a deliciously creepy feel, strays a bit from the novel, but features the finest interpretation of its hero, that cantankerous Christmas killjoy, Ebenezer Scrooge. Alastair Sim spoils the role for anyone else with a performance that's both broad and understated, but he doesn't neglect the delicate shadings in between. His is a three-dimensional Scrooge, and his wildly expressive face aptly reflects the miser's gamut of emotions. The joyful climax overflows with yuletide cheer and is guaranteed to melt even the hardest heart. To paraphrase Tiny Tim, God bless this movie, everyone! #1 - 'It's a Wonderful Life' (1946) Few films make me cry like a baby EVERY TIME I see them, but Frank Capra's 'It's a Wonderful Life' never fails to evoke a visceral emotional response. James Stewart is brilliant as George Bailey, an unselfish man who sacrifices his dreams in the name of service and responsibility and remains devoted to his family despite more pressures and setbacks than anyone should have to bear. When at last he believes all hope is lost, he contemplates suicide, but just in the nick of time, a novice guardian angel named Clarence (Henry Travers) descends from heaven one fateful Christmas Eve to prove to George how important and meaningful his life has been. 'It's a Wonderful Life' has been copied and parodied to a fare-thee-well over the past 70 years, but it remains the quintessential Christmas movie because it celebrates the human spirit and shows how seemingly insignificant acts can profoundly affect others and even change the world. A fresh-faced Donna Reed, young Gloria Grahame, and gallery of fine character actors, including Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, H.B. Warner, and Beulah Bondi all make essential contributions to this inspirational tale that seamlessly blends comedy, drama, romance, and fantasy. Though it wasn't very successful at the time of its release, 'It's a Wonderful Life' has grown in stature exponentially over the years to become an indisputable classic and an annual holiday tradition for many families. It's our top Christmas film pick, and if by some chance you've never seen it, you're in for a treat. Just make sure you have the Kleenex handy.Posted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 01:00 PM PST by:
