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High-Def Digest's Essential Picks: November 2013by Steven Cohen Every 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 affection, 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 spooky haunted house story, a golden age Hollywood classic with a 3D spin, and a big budget adolescent sci-fi fantasy come to life. If you haven't already, be sure to check out the Essential Picks for November, December, January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. [teaser]This month, we're covering the birth of a drug kingpin, a hilarious sci-fi pub crawl, and a masterpiece of world cinema.[/teaser] Please be aware, that if you haven't already seen them, there might be some big spoilers for the films listed. If you can only buy three titles that hit Blu-ray in November, here's what we suggest you pick up, starting with the most essential... 'Breaking Bad: The Complete Series' - From Mr. Chips to Scarface. That was the core of Vince Gilligan's concept for 'Breaking Bad,' and boy did he deliver. Though the show's universal praise might seem like hyperbole, Walter White's journey toward the dark side really is one of TV's shining achievements. A true testament to what can be accomplished over long form small screen storytelling, the hit series follows one man as he gradually loses his soul to unfettered pride and escalating greed. A powerful and multifaceted examination of hubris, family, and barrels full of money, the show is everything great drama is supposed to be: Emotional, surprising, gut-wrenching, utterly absorbing, and explosive. Sometimes literally. With his goatee, sunglasses, and fedora, the image of Heisenberg has become iconic, and Bryan Cranston's slow-build transformation is simply astonishing. Watching the man go from a feeble, meek chemistry teacher, to a powerful and deadly drug kingpin is like watching a monster grow before your eyes. Nuanced and organic, Walter White's rise (or decline, as the case may be) is full of tragedy, bloodshed, and aching pathos. At different points throughout the series, we go from feeling sympathy for Walter, to actively rooting for him, to eventually hating him. Indeed, for many viewers, the character ultimately reaches a point where he can no longer be related to or sided with, and this type of storytelling gamble rarely pays off. In fact, as far as TV goes, only 'The Shield' and its morally loose characterization of Vic Mackey comes close to equaling what Cranston and Gilligan have accomplished here. By the time the last season comes around, many fans will be actively rooting against Walter, but this doesn't hurt one's enjoyment of the show at all. It's simply a natural progression of where the story needs to go -- and the finale itself hits all the right beats, offering a fitting and possibly redemptive end for the infamous family man turned outlaw. His masquerade of selfishness under the guise of selflessness eventually run its course, and watching him finally admit his true motivations out loud is one of the most satisfying moments in television history. A man is diagnosed with terminal cancer and decides to start cooking meth to provide for his family. On its own, that's a pretty fantastic premise, but it really doesn't even begin to hint at how far this show really goes. One of the most consistently good series ever produced (seriously, there is no real "bad" episode of 'Breaking Bad') , every installment feels like a larger piece of a developing puzzle, taking us further and further down the river into Walter White's "heart of darkness." And the show manages to blend a bevy of different genres into an oddly cohesive whole -- offering shades of westerns, gangster flicks, action, horror, and even a healthy helping of quirky comedy. A unique and wholly satisfying character study steeped in suspense, violence, and heartbreak, the show is nearly flawless. In fact, now that all is said and done, the only real criticism I have involves the story's timeline. Up until season five, most of the series is supposed to unravel over about a year, and when held under scrutiny the events and emotional roller coasters that the characters go through seem a bit much for such a small period. Still, that's an incredibly minute nitpick, and technically the narrative does hold up, even if it is a little hard to buy. This complete series set includes every episode of the show and all of the supplements from the previous releases, along with some incredibly cool packaging, collectables, and an exclusive new documentary. Believe the hype, this is one of the greatest shows ever made, and it deserves to be on the shelf of every self-respecting fan of quality storytelling. A must own if there ever was one. 'The World's End' - When certain creative teams get together, viewers are almost always guaranteed a good time. Such is the case with Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg, and Nick Frost. The fun started with their imaginative sitcom, 'Spaced,' and then continued on as the three Brits made quite a name for themselves with their zombie comedy 'Shaun of the Dead,' and its followup, their equally fantastic love letter to action movies, 'Hot Fuzz.' And now with their third feature, the trio somehow manages to go three for three, offering another hilarious, exciting, and just plain awesome flick. An irreverently unique take on the traditional sci-fi body snatcher plotline, 'The World's End' is basically everything anyone could want out of a movie, fusing a witty and surprisingly affecting story about friendship and reclaimed youth with a kick ass feature length barroom brawl against robots. Err, sorry. I mean "blanks." Apparently, they don't like being called robots. Led by a wonderfully manic, intense, and downright unhinged performance from Simon Pegg, the film is full of energy and personality. Determined to reclaim the vigor of his youth, Pegg's Gary King is a classic stunted adult living in the past and his dream to drink a pint at all twelve pubs in his hometown with his three best childhood mates offers a great setup for laughs and even some genuine emotion. And if that wasn't enough, the filmmakers then decide to add in an alien invasion for good measure. Good times ensue. Director Edgar Wright films all the mayhem with his trademark penchant for kinetic thrills and comedic timing, creating a movie that is not only funny, but legitimately thrilling. Though there are plenty of quick cuts, Wright mostly opts to film his numerous fight scenes and action sequences with fast moving extended takes and whip pans, letting the audience see all of the cast's dizzying choreography and crazy stunts as they rip off robot heads and inexplicably continue to drink. That's right, despite finding themselves right in the middle of a sci-fi conspiracy, the ensemble actually decides to continue with their pub crawl. As the situation gets increasingly dangerous, they get increasingly drunk, and this turns out to be a comedic stroke of genius. The group's continuously numbed reactions to pain are especially amusing, and watching Pegg as he desperately tries to get a casual drink amidst severed alien appendages and gushing blue blood is hilarious. Add in an amusing debate on the definition of the word robot, my favorite mention of a crazy straw in any movie, a former Bond, and a former Bond Girl, and you've got a real recipe for success. With 'The World's Ends,' Pegg, Wright, and Frost cap off their 'Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy' in style. Hilarious, action-packed, bursting with creativity and brimming with genuine emotion, this might actually be my favorite flick in the series. Thankfully, the Blu-ray itself comes with demo worthy video and audio that are sure to give your home theater a workout, and an arsenal of entertaining and informative supplements. As far as pure entertainment goes, this is easily one of November's top titles. Well done, Wright, now bring on 'Ant-Man!' 'Tokyo Story' - When it comes to classic films and art house cinema, I'd like to think that I'm fairly well versed -- but there is one very notable movie that has always alluded me. Though it's widely regarded as one of the greatest films every made, and is consistently featured on most top ten lists, up until recently, I had never actually seen 'Tokyo Story.' This wasn't on purpose, mind you. At least, not at first. But as I somehow made it out of film school without watching Ozu's masterpiece, and my committal to all things HD grew, I eventually decided to simply wait. I was saving it, you see. Holding out for an eventual Blu-ray release from Criterion so that I could experience the film for the first time as it was meant to be seen. Well, after years of waiting, that opportunity has finally presented itself, and after watching this disc in all its glory, I'm happy that I held off. A simultaneously heartbreaking and uplifting meditation on family, aging, and the constant winds of change, the film is a gentle and deceptively unassuming milestone of cinema. While I already covered what makes Ozu's approach to filmmaking so special in my full review, I failed to discuss the cast's incredible performances. After playing father and daughter in one of Ozu's previous and equally powerful efforts, 'Late Spring,' Chishu Ryu and Setsuko Hara are reunited here under similar circumstances. Once again, Ryu is cast in the aging father role, but this time Hara plays his widowed daughter in law. Hara's sweet and selfless Noriko is the movie's most likeable character, offering a sharp contrast to her other selfish and preoccupied brothers and sister-in-law. As always, the actress brings along her disarming smile, and her almost perpetual expression of happiness comes to carry subtle hints of deeper emotions. During key instances her smile eventually fades, revealing the greater sorrow that lurks just under the surface. It's a masterfully balanced performance, and Hara makes it all look so easy. Likewise, Ozu mainstay Chishu Ryu is fantastic as the elderly Shukishi Hirayama, and Chieko Higashiyama is also noteworthy as his ailing wife. Watching the aging couple become ignored by their adult offspring is heartbreaking, and both actors completely sell their politely veiled disappointment with their children. A momentary role reversal, where Ryu's character comes home drunk with his friends is also particularly amusing, and the actor does an amazing job of layering his character with pathos and humor. As tragedy strikes the film's third act, Ryu and Hara both rise to the script's challenges, offering subtle but potent portraits of loss and loneliness. Their scenes together are among the film's many highlights, and through Ryu's wise, friendly, tired, and quietly devastated eyes we see Ozu's entire worldview -- filling the screen with palpable pain, sorrow, and love. One of cinema's true masterpieces, 'Tokyo Story' is a sensitive and insightful work of art. A bittersweet picture of humanity at its best, worst, and everything inbetween, Ozu's simple story about everyday life and death touches upon all the facets of existence, revealing the careless pangs of selfishness, and the life-affirming touch of simple kindness. The Blu-ray from Criterion offers pleasing video and audio, and a great selection of comprehensive supplements. A masterful presentation for a masterful film, this is a true must own piece of world cinema and a defining example of moviemaking as art. So, there you have it. While there are 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 27, 2013 at 08:05 AM PST by: -
HDD Black Friday Bargain Blitz: 'House of Cards: The Complete First Season' Blu-ray $12.99 at Amazon[teaser]Save eighty percent on the first season of the Netflix original series starring Kevin Spacey at Amazon![/teaser] The online retailer is now selling 'House of Cards: The Complete First Season' on Blu-ray for only $12.99 (80% off suggested retail price). Francis Underwood is Majority Whip. He has his hands on every secret in politics - and is willing to betray them all to become President. Click here to order your Blu-ray copy today! More fantastic deals can be found in Amazon's Black Friday Deals Countdown page here!Posted Wed Nov 27, 2013 at 08:04 AM PST by: -
'Cat in the Brain' in the Works for Blu-ray[teaser]Lucio Fulci's 1990 horror flick will terrorize Blu-ray in 2014. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Raro Viedo is preparing 'Cat in the Brain' for Blu-ray in early 2014. Acclaimed Italian horror maestro Lucio Fulci, director of 'Zombie' and 'The Beyond,' stars in this blood-soaked epic as a director being driven insane by his own movies. Fulci is thrust into an ultra-violent nightmare of death and depravity where murder and madness consume his sanity in a vortex of violence. 'Cat In The Brain' is a psychological masterpiece in the tradition of such cinematic classics as 'Psycho,' 'Strait Jacket,' 'Eraserhead' and Fellini's '8 1/2.' Specs, supplements, and a suggested list price have not been detailed yet but the video will be sourced from the 35mm negative. You can find the latest specs for 'Cat in the Brain' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under PENDING.Posted Wed Nov 27, 2013 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
'Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Film' Coming to Blu-ray[teaser]The Red Sox will slide into home on Blu-ray in November. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, A&E Home Video is preparing 'Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Film ' for Blu-ray on November 26. A 'Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Collector's Edition Set' will also be available on December 3. Don't miss the greatest moments of the Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series with the Official 2013 World Series Film. Catch the highlights of all of the games, interviews, and classic moments from baseball's biggest stage. The Boston Red Sox clinch the first World Series win at Fenway since 1918! This is the third World Series championship for the Red Sox in 10 seasons! Boston Red Sox have 4mil+ Facebook fans and 600k+ Twitter followers! Includes highlights, exclusive access and interviews, plus breathtaking footage that captures the triumph of the Red Sox! The Collector's Edition set includes each definitive 2013 World Series game presented in its entirety, preserving the complete, unedited footage of every World Series game and key postseason games. The Blu-rays will feature 1080p video and DTS-HD MA soundtracks, and supplements will include: Clinching Celebrations; World Series Highlights; World Series Parade; Mission October: Red Sox; MLB Player Poll: Pedroia/Ortiz; Hall of Fame: 2013 World Series; 'This Beard Came Here To Party' Music Video; and President Obama Calls John Farrell. Supplements on the 8-disc Collector's set will include: The complete ALCS Game 6; Highlights from all 11 regular season walk-off wins, team and player milestones; AL™ East clinching celebration; Postseason highlights; Four audio options including TV, home radio, away radio and Spanish-language audio; SleeveStats insert with game trivia, official stats and more. Suggested list price for the Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Film Blu-ray is $34.99 and suggested list price for the Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Collector's Edition Set is $69.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Film' and 'Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Collector's Edition Set' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they are indexed under November 26 and December 3.Posted Wed Nov 27, 2013 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Give the Gift of Amazon Prime This Holiday Season![teaser]It's the gift that keeps on giving the whole year! [/teaser] Just in time for the holidays, customers can now give the gift of Amazon Prime to friends and family. In addition to unlimited Free Two-Day Shipping on more than 15 million items, when you give the gift of Prime, you are giving a year’s worth of unlimited entertainment with Prime Instant Video and Kindle Owners’ Lending Library. “Members have told us they want to give the gift of Prime and we are delighted to offer this new capability in time for the holidays.” said Greg Greeley, Vice President of Amazon Prime. “Our customers can now give the convenience of unlimited two-day shipping to family and friends - it's a gift that can be enjoyed all year long. When you add in the huge selection of popular movies, TV shows and Kindle books already included in the membership, giving Prime is giving a year’s worth of convenience AND entertainment." Purchasing Amazon Prime as a gift is simple and convenient. Customers can visit www.amazon.com/giftprime, add Prime to the shopping cart, enter the recipient’s email address and select a delivery date. Gift recipients will receive an email on that date, with redemption instructions to immediately start streaming quality digital content, borrowing books and shopping with fast, free shipping on millions of items. The annual prime membership is $79. Since the launch of Prime in 2005, Amazon continues to add more and more membership benefits, increasing the selection of items available for unlimited Free Two-Day Shipping by more than fifteen times, introducing Prime Instant Video, adding the Kindle Owners' Lending Library and recently introducing Kindle First which provides Prime members the chance to read a book from Amazon Publishing in advance of its publication each month for free.Posted Tue Nov 26, 2013 at 02:00 PM PST by: -
'Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United' Blu-ray Dated[teaser]The legendary Marvel heroes will team up on Blu-ray in December. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Disney is preparing 'Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United' for Blu-ray on December 3. In this action-packed teamup, the Invincible Iron Man and the Incredible Hulk come together to save the Earth from its greatest threat yet. When two HYDRA scientists try to supercharge a Stark Arc Reactor with Hulk's Gamma Energy, they unleash a being of pure electricity called the Zzzax, and he's hungry for destruction. Together, Iron Man and Hulk are the only force that stands in the way of the Zzzax's planetary blackout. But first the superhero duo will have to get through snarling Wendigos, deadly robots and the scaly powerhouse, Abomination. Can two of Marvel's mightiest heroes find a way to work together without smashing each other before time runs out? Specs have not been announced yet, but supplements will include: Marvel Inter-missions; and Marvel Team-Up with Ryan Penagos and Joe Q. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy combo pack is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under December 3.Posted Tue Nov 26, 2013 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
High-Def Digest's Guide to The Essential Holiday Blu-rays 2013Like so many years before, David Krauss is dreaming of a Blu Christmas. Here are your newest Blu-ray options for the season, along with a rundown of all the old favorites! [teaser]As Charlie Brown and his friends love to sing, Christmastime is here, and that means it's time for High-Def Digest's 5th annual holiday movie wrap-up, a go-to listing of what's new, what's essential, and what to avoid when it comes to yuletide viewing. Whatever your taste, be it romantic or irreverent, there's a disc that will infuse you with that warm, fuzzy holiday feeling.[/teaser] So mull that cider (or wine), cuddle up under your favorite Christmas blanket, and add some serious Blu to the reds and greens that color your season! New Releases: One of the all-time holiday classics finally received a Blu-ray release this fall, but due to a careless glitch, you may need special connections with Santa to score a copy. 'The Bishop's Wife,' starring Cary Grant as a guardian angel intent on helping a harried minister (David Niven) and his concerned spouse (Loretta Young) deal with professional pressures and heal their marriage, is a charming, whimsical tale distinguished by its fine script and the chemistry of its cast. Unfortunately, no guardian angels were watching over the Warner Home Video quality-control crew, who let what seems to be a video authoring error escape their notice. As a result, 'The Bishop's Wife' has been removed from circulation at the moment, but I hope the issue will be rectified soon, so this delightful comedy-drama can still be enjoyed this holiday season. An alternative classic, however, would be 'The Bells of St. Mary's,' a follow-up to 'Going My Way,' with Bing Crosby reprising his Oscar-winning role as Father O'Malley, the even-tempered priest who this time locks horns with the no-nonsense Sister Benedict (Ingrid Bergman) over the future of a parochial school. Nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Picture, this inspirational yarn has been a holiday favorite for decades. And speaking of locking horns, family squabbling is as much a part of Christmas as candy canes and tinsel, and Ed Burns' latest directorial effort, 'The Fitzgerald Family Christmas,' chronicles one clan's attempt to find common ground. This intimate family drama will surely wring a few tears as it reminds us what matters most every day of the year. On the other hand, if you like your family Christmas movies on the crazier side, check out the 2004 Ben Affleck vehicle, 'Surviving Christmas,' in which the affable Affleck plays a lonely millionaire who hires a family to spend the holidays with him. James Gandolfini, Catherine O'Hara, and Christina Applegate also star in this ultimately uplifting comedy that's not as bad as its reputation. Of course, when it comes to Disney and especially Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh, reputation is everything, and at long last, two of the studios classic holiday features are finally making their way onto Blu-ray. The flagship title is without a doubt 'Mickey's Christmas Carol: 30th Anniversary Special Edition,' a truncated, yet lively and heartwarming animated telling of the Dickens classic. Though Mickey can certainly stand on his own, when paired with 'Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year,' in which the Hundred Acre Wood gang make some New Year's resolutions to appease a Scrooge-like Rabbit, you'll get a full dose of Disney this holiday season with films the whole family will enjoy and cherish. Anniversary Editions: Recycling is very big these days, but movie studios are hopping aboard the band wagon to pad their coffers rather than aid the environment as they re-release a number of holiday favorites in new packaging, but with the same old transfers and extras. Examples of this reprehensible practice include 'A Christmas Story: 30th Anniversary Edition' (which does include a new featurette, but that's the only fresh aspect of this stale re-release), 'Scrooged: 25th Anniversary Edition,' 'Elf: 10th Anniversary Edition,' and 'Love Actually: 10th Anniversary Edition.' All of the preceding titles are described in more detail below, but if you already own them, don't waste your money on these bogus "upgrades." Double Dips: Two notable double dips debuted in 2011 – one that's worth of your money and one to avoid at all costs – and they're still hanging around this year. The one that's worth an upgrade is VCI's 60th anniversary edition of the 1951 classic, 'A Christmas Carol,' starring arguably the cinema's finest Ebenezer Scrooge, Alastair Sim. This version is regarded by many as the most faithful adaptation of Charles Dickens' immortal tale, and Sim's portrayal – by turns sullen, dour, defiant, wounded, and joyously giddy – lends Scrooge more dimension than the role often receives. Though VCI initially put out 'A Christmas Carol' on Blu-ray a mere three years ago, this Diamond Edition substantially improves on that release with a slightly upgraded video transfer, lossless LPCM audio (the previous disc had a compressed track), and a slew of all-new supplements, including a fold-out, abridged reproduction of the film's American pressbook. (Note: The packaging and disc menu lists the audio as Dolby Digital 5.1, but it is indeed a lossless LPCM 5.1 track.) The second double dip – the one to steer clear of – is, surprisingly enough, a "collector's" edition of the all-time classic yuletide tale, 'It's A Wonderful Life.' I know, I know…say it ain't so! Believe me, I'm as disappointed as you. I love this film; it's an undeniable treasure and worthy of all the praise and affection heaped upon it. But this release is a travesty. The transfers (which are quite nice) and extras are exactly the same as the ones on the previously released edition, and the collector's extras – flimsy packaging, a chintzy commemorative Christmas ornament, and a generic booklet – are hardly worth the extra expense. Even if you've never purchased the movie before (and if you haven't, you need to!), go with the original Blu-ray, which takes up less shelf space and presents the emotionally affecting and inspirational (in the best sense of that word) story of George Bailey just as well as this unnecessary "upgrade." All-Time Classics: We've already mentioned the 1951 version of 'A Christmas Carol' as well as 'It's A Wonderful Life,' both of which rank high on the list of all-time classics. (Other versions of 'A Christmas Carol' available on Blu-ray include Disney's 2009 blockbuster 3D interpretation starring chameleon Jim Carrey [available in both 3D and 2D versions] and an acclaimed 1984 television adaptation featuring the esteemed George C. Scott as the irascible Scrooge.) Not far behind them is the 1954 favorite, 'White Christmas,' a spritely Irving Berlin musical starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera-Ellen, and Rosemary Clooney. With high-spirited numbers galore, along with two renditions of the iconic title song, this breezy tale of romance and friendship ranks right up there with Hollywood's best holiday fare. Another great musical is 'Scrooge,' a buoyantly tuneful adaptation of Dickens' yuletide yarn. Starring the versatile and always impressive Albert Finney (who was just 34 years old when he tackled the iconic, miserly curmudgeon), this spritely film remains surprisingly faithful to the original novel, contains a host of memorable songs by Leslie Bricusse, and features a gallery of top British actors (Alec Guinness, Edith Evans, and Kenneth More among them) in key roles. The high quality video and audio transfers make this "spirited" film come alive even more, filling us with plenty of Christmas cheer. Though only about a third of Vincente Minnelli's classic Americana musical, 'Meet Me in St. Louis,' takes place at Christmas, the cheer quotient of this classic musical is pretty high, too, making this year-in-the-life chronicle of a typical American family circa 1904 one of the most beloved and endearing holiday movies of all time. (It covers Halloween, too!) First and foremost, it contains one of Judy Garland's finest performances, as well as a number of instantly recognizable tunes, including 'The Trolley Song,' 'The Boy Next Door,' and of course, 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,' which was written expressly for this film and performed with exceptional beauty and grace by Garland. And no discussion of classic Christmas tales would be complete without a nod to the original 'Miracle on 34th Street,' featuring an Oscar-winning performance from Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle. It's impossible not to believe in Santa Claus after watching this charming yet incisive comedy that gently reinforces the season's true meaning. Though the video quality isn't a huge upgrade from DVD, it's good enough to stuff this little beauty in your holiday stocking. (The 1994 remake starring Richard Attenborough, Elizabeth Perkins, Dylan McDermott, and Mara Wilson, is also available on Blu-ray, but who would ever want to see that?) Modern Classics: The most notable holiday film to join the Blu-ray family last year was 'The Muppet Christmas Carol,' and we're still basking in its glow in 2013. Kermit and the gang pay homage to the Charles Dickens classic in a surprisingly faithful adaptation that mixes humor and warmth with an array of top-notch Paul Williams songs and a generous helping of Muppet lunacy. Michael Caine makes a marvelous Scrooge, and Brian Henson's slick direction turns this family musical into a very delightful package. Also from Disney, 'The Santa Clause' trilogy, featuring the original 'The Santa Clause,' its saccharine sequel, 'The Santa Clause 2,' and the insufferable 'The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause,' can be purchased in one package or in separate volumes. The clever first film is by far the best, filled with whimsy and wonder, but the sequel scores some points, too, as it charts the newly crowned Santa's search for a suitable mate. The third film adds Martin Short to the mix as a mischievous Jack Frost, but his icy presence freezes the franchise. If you like your annual helping of 'A Christmas Carol' a little more on the comedic side, you'll be happy with Richard Donner's 'Scrooged,' featuring Bill Murray as the Ebenezer-esque Frank Cross. With an updated take on the classic yarn that strikes a more relatable chord, and fine supporting work from such stalwarts as John Forsythe, Robert Mitchum, Karen Allen, and Alfre Woodard, this light-hearted comedy merges laughs with wonderful warmth and a bit of edgy bite, and will ultimately charm even the crustiest Christmas killjoy. Upgraded video and audio make this one a keeper. Sometimes age alone transforms a run-of-the-mill movie into a classic, and that seems to be the unfortunate fate that's befallen 1985's clunky, elephantine Kris Kringle biopic, 'Santa Claus: The Movie.' I remember loathing this bloated behemoth when it was first released, and haven't mustered the courage to see it since. Fonder (or at least more realistic) Christmas memories are explored in the nostalgic 'A Christmas Story,' the darkly comic 1983 adaptation of humorist Jean Shepherd's fictional memoir. Who among us can't identify with nine-year-old Ralphie and his dogged pursuit of his dream toy? With both wide-eyed wonder and a mischievous twinkle, this fan favorite deliciously skewers the season. (Yet however much you revere 'A Christmas Story,' make sure you steer clear of its misguided sequel, 'A Christmas Story 2,' which takes place five years down the road and finds Ralphie eyeing a new car instead of an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle.) And if you can't identify with Ralphie, then surely you've fantasized at least fleetingly about making your parents and/or siblings disappear, like Kevin McCallister does in 'Home Alone.' C'mon, admit it. Cute-as-a-button Macaulay Culkin battles bungling house burglars Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern after his family leaves on a Parisian vacation without him, learning a lot about independence and the meaning of Christmas in the process. Deftly juggling uproarious slapstick with honest sentiment, this John Hughes production makes us laugh and cry and appreciate the simple pleasures that make this holiday special. 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,' the change-the-location-but-keep-the-story-the-same sequel is also available on Blu-ray, and both films can be purchased in a handy, low-priced two-pack. And speaking of Christmas vacations – or should I say "stay-cations" - no yuletide celebration is as wacky or wacked out as the one Chevy Chase and family experience in 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.' Running a close second, though, would have to be Buddy the Elf's Big Apple odyssey in Jon Favreau's surprisingly sweet, festive, and hilarious Christmas comedy, 'Elf.' As the orphan child raised at the North Pole and now on a quest to find his real family, Will Ferrell captures the essence of wide-eyed innocence, while James Caan makes a fine foil as his crusty, Scrooge-like dad. Romantic Comedies: Christmas is certainly one of the most romantic times of the year, and two films blanket us with that warm, fuzzy feeling only a good love story can provide. 'Love, Actually' takes a mosaic approach as it chronicles the exhilaration and heartache of several couples as they navigate love's treacherous minefield. The all-star cast includes Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy, Colin Firth, and Keira Knightley, and though I'll never forgive Alan for what he does to Emma (and will never be able to listen to Joni Mitchell again without thinking about it), it's impossible not to embrace this well-crafted film. I also really like 'The Holiday' (sssshhh! Don't tell anyone!), Nancy Meyers' chick flick supreme about two lonely women (Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet) who trade houses at Christmas and find unexpected love with Jude Law and Jack Black. (I won't spoil who hooks up with whom.) It's a bit predictable and trite, but also strangely irresistible, especially if you've got the tree lit and a roaring fire in the fireplace. It's also one of the few movies in which I don't find Diaz unbearable. Romance lovers and those who like their Christmas movies filled with inspiring messages might want to check out 'The Christmas Shoes' and its sequel, 'The Christmas Blessing,' two TV movies that emphasize the power of love, faith, and family in the face of disillusionment and despair. Rob Lowe and Kimberly Williams-Paisley star in the first film about a young boy determined to make his mother's final Christmas special, and Neil Patrick Harris plays the grown-up version of that boy in the sequel, grappling with issues from his past and strained familial relationships. 'The Most Wonderful Time of the Year' also falls into this category, with a more whimsical spin, as a harried single mother (Brooke Burns) and cynical son find the true meaning of the season, thanks to jovial Uncle Ralph (Henry Winkler) and the hunky stranger (Warren Christie) he brings home for the holidays. Also for Winkler fans (and xenophobes), there's 'An American Christmas Carol,' which tells the same tale as the Dickens classic without the hoity-toity accents. I'm sure Henry Winkler makes a good Scrooge (renamed Benedict Slade here) in this 1979 TV movie, and shifting the setting to Depression-era New Hampshire adds an interesting twist, but if you crave a retelling of the inspired and inspiring holiday story, there are plenty of better options. Animated Fare: When I was a kid, one of the few things that could help speed the interminable wait between Thanksgiving and Christmas was the steady stream of children's holiday specials that flooded the network airwaves, and now almost all my favorites are now available on Blu-ray! Leading the charge are such perennially delightful programs as 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' (let Linus tell your family "what Christmas is all about") and 'Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas,' as well as a must-have box set called 'The Original Christmas Classics.' And classics they are! 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' (narrated by Burl Ives), 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' (narrated by Fred Astaire), and 'Frosty the Snowman' and 'Frosty Returns' are all included. Also high on the animated list is another top-notch entry, 'The Year Without a Santa Claus,' featuring the talents of Mickey Rooney and Shirley Booth as the beleaguered Mr. and Mrs. Claus, as well as one of the lesser titles in the Rankin/Bass catalogue, 1974's ''Twas the Night Before Christmas,' which was inspired by Clement Moore's immortal poem and deals with the timeworn premise of doubting Santa's existence. Joel Grey, Tammy Grimes, and George Gobel are among the stars who lend their voices to this charming tale. For Disney fans, 'Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas,' the direct-to-video companion to the acclaimed original, takes place while Belle is still a prisoner in the Beast's castle, and finds the lovely heroine on a mission to celebrate Christmas with festive cheer, much to the chagrin of her hairy and humbug captor. Though a far cry from its parent film, both artistically and thematically, 'The Enchanted Christmas' may not be 100% enchanting, but it provides enough tuneful warmth to satisfy audiences of all ages. There's even a cartoon adaptation of Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' starring the myopic Mr. Magoo – 'Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol.' For those who prefer more innovative animated fare, check out Tim Burton's ghoulishly delightful 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' and Robert Zemeckis' magical 'The Polar Express,' which is available in both flat and 3D versions. The charming 'Arthur Christmas – 3D,' which puts a fresh spin on the age-old Santa story and features the voice talents of such esteemed actors as James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent, Hugh Laurie, and Bill Nighy, is still on the shelf this year, along with 'Kung Fu Panda Holiday,' 'Alvin and the Chipmunks: Christmas with the Chipmunks,' 'Prep & Landing: Totally Tinsel Collection,' including both the original 'Prep & Landing' and the 'Naughty vs. Nice' sequel, and 'DreamWorks Holiday Classics,' which includes 'Shrek the Halls,' 'The Madagascar Penguins in a Christmas Caper,' 'Merry Madagascar,' 'Donkey's Christmas Shrektacular,' and 'Dragons: Gift of the Night Fury.' After all, what good is a franchise if it doesn't spawn a special Christmas installment? Quirky Christmas: Viewers with more offbeat taste may find these curios interesting… 'Santa Claus Conquers the Martians,' the 1964 cult classic about the abduction of Santa to the Red Planet, arrives at last on Blu-ray in a newly restored edition from Kino, while 'Santa Claus' is a 1959 Spanish language film from Mexico that checks in at #54 on IMDb's list of Bottom 100 Films (as rated by site users) and charts St. Nick's battle with the devil Pitch, who's determined to – you guessed it – ruin Christmas. Tyler Perry's indefatigable character Madea is also on a mission to save the holiday when family strife and secrets threaten to sabotage it in 'A Madea Christmas: The Play,' while a homosexual college student (Keith Jordan) crawls back into the closet to survive the holidays with his conservative parents (Derek Long and Kelly Keaton) until his boyfriend (Adamo Ruggiero) unexpectedly shows up in the warm-hearted comedy 'Make the Yuletide Gay.' Turkeys: We all love turkey around the holidays, except when it comes to movies, and there are a couple of rancid offerings that will only serve to sour us on the season. Despite a strong cast that includes Oscar-winners Reese Witherspoon, Robert Duvall, Sissy Spacek, and Jon Voight, make sure you keep away from 'Four Christmases,' a tiresome slapstick comedy about a selfish couple (Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn) who visit a quartet of quirky, annoying, even frightening relatives when their balmy Christmas plans get canceled. Equally wretched is 'Deck the Halls,' a tiresome, completely unfunny chronicle of neighbors (Matthew Broderick and Danny DeVito) trying to outdo and ultimately sabotage the other's massive holiday light displays. Thankfully, 'Christmas with the Kranks' hasn't yet found a Blu-ray release, and if studio executives are smart, it never will. Dozens of other holiday Blu-rays are available to brighten (or darken) this Christmas, from traditional Yule log presentations and concerts to irreverent black comedies ('Bad Santa'), action flicks (I always enjoy giving the original 'Die Hard' a spin over the holidays) and, yes, even horror films. ('Silent Night,' a remake of the 1984 slasher flick 'Silent Night, Deadly Night' that chronicles the deadly rampage of a psycho axe murderer disguised as Santa, joining 'Silent Night, Zombie Night,' an equally bloody yuletide exercise from last season, and the always entertaining 'Gremlins.'). But for those who desire a well-balanced, family-friendly selection that plays well from year to year, you can't go wrong with any of the above choices (well, maybe with the exception of 'Santa Claus: The Movie,' 'Four Christmases,' and 'Deck the Halls'). So plop a few marshmallows in your hot chocolate, grab a comfy blanket, light that fire, and let these movies infuse you with seasonal spirit. Happy Holidays!!Posted Tue Nov 26, 2013 at 09:20 AM PST by: -
'Raise the Titanic' to Surface on Blu-ray[teaser]The 1980 adventure from Director Jerry Jameson will surface on Blu-ray in January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Shout Factory is working on 'Raise the Titanic' for Blu-ray on January 21. Join the underwater race to salvage the Titanic and its vital defense cargo. Adapted from Clive Cussler's international best-seller, the story follows the exploits of American special agent Dirk Pitt as he sets out to recover vital material from the Titanic which could make the US impregnable to atomic attack. The ship is down too deep for divers and the only solution is to raise it. The incredible project must be managed in absolute secrecy because of deadly interference from a rival nation. The Titanic is finally, and majestically, brought to the surface -- but the vital, rare mineral is missing... Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements for the Blu-ray/DVD combo pack will include a making-of featurette and a trailer. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $19.97. You can find the latest specs for 'Raise the Titanic' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 21.Posted Tue Nov 26, 2013 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
HDD Black Friday Bargain Blitz: 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand: The Complete First Season' Blu-ray $9.99 at Amazon![teaser]The first season of the Starz series is nearly 90 percent off at Amazon! [/teaser] The online retailer is now selling 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand: The Complete First Season' for $9.99 (88% off suggested list price). The four-disc set comes in book-like packaging.' Click here to order the bloody gladiator carnage today! You'll find more sweet bargains in Amazon's Black Friday Deals Countdown page here!Posted Tue Nov 26, 2013 at 06:55 AM PST by: -
'Fruitvale Station' Blu-ray Announced[teaser]Ryan Coogler's acclaimed drama is planned for Blu-ray in January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Starz/Anchor Bay is working on 'Fruitvale Station' for Blu-ray on January 14. Winner of both the Grand Jury Prize for dramatic feature and the Audience Award for U.S. dramatic film at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, director Ryan Coogler’s 'Fruitvale Station' follows the true story of Oscar Grant (Michael B. Jordan), a 22-year-old Bay Area resident who wakes up on the morning of December 31, 2008 and feels something in the air. Not sure what it is, he takes it as a sign to get a head start on his resolutions: being a better son to his mother (Octavia Spencer), whose birthday falls on New Year’s Eve, being a better partner to his girlfriend Sophina (Melonie Diaz), who he hasn’t been completely honest with as of late, and being a better father to Tatiana (Ariana Neal), their beautiful four year-old daughter. Crossing paths with friends, family, and strangers, Oscar starts out well, but as the day goes on, he realizes that change is not going to come easily. His resolve takes a tragic turn, however, when BART officers shoot him in cold blood at the Fruitvale subway stop on New Year’s Day. Oscar’s life and tragic death would shake the Bay Area – and the entire nation – to its very core. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements will include Fruitvale Station: The Story of Oscar Grant and Q&A with Cast and Filmmakers. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Fruitvale Station' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 14.Posted Tue Nov 26, 2013 at 06:00 AM PST by:
