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12/18/07 V11.51
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Check out OnVideo's discriminating guide to holiday giftsONVIDEO'S WEEKLY GUIDE TO HOME VIDEO RELEASES
For Tuesday, December 18 -- Monday, December 24
Balls of Fury
A former ping-pong champ is brought in by the government to infiltrate a high-stakes underworld tournament and bring down the organizer, a feared crime boss. In this secret society, the competition is brutal and the stakes are high. It is the unsanctioned, underground, and utterly unhinged world of clandestine Ping-Pong tournaments. Down-and-out former professional Ping-Pong phenom Randy Daytona (Dan Fogler) is sucked into this maelstrom when FBI Agent Rodriguez (George Lopez) recruits him for a secret mission. Randy is determined to bounce back and win, and to smoke out his father's killer-arch-fiend Feng (Christopher Walken). Vitals: Director: Robert Ben Garant. Stars: Dan Fogler, Christopher Walken, George Lopez, Maggie Q, James Hong, Terry Crews, Robert Patrick. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 91 min., Comedy, Box office gross: $32.587 million, Universal.
Halloween
Inspired by Carpenter's 1978 original and his theme that "evil can appear in even the smallest of towns," Rob Zombie's "Halloween" focuses on the early years of young Michael Myers and the events leading up to his fateful Halloween night murder rampage in the quiet town of Haddonfield, Illinois. Following that brutal night, Michael begins 17 years of incarceration at the Smith's Grove Sanitarium maximum-security mental facility where he is treated by noted child behaviorist Dr. Samuel Loomis -- the only person who can truly understand Michael's evil nature. Now, 17 years later, Michael escapes from the mental facility on Halloween day and begins a murderous trek back to Haddonfield to continue his killing streak and seek resolution to events from his past. In Haddonfield, Michael begins stalking a high school girl, Laurie Strode, and her friends, Annie and Lynda. When Dr. Loomis, now a successful author for his book on Michael, hears of his escape, he enlists the help of Haddonfield's Sheriff Brackett to find and put an end to Michael's reign of terror. Vitals: Director: Rob Zombie. Stars: Scout Taylor-Compton, Malcolm McDowell, Daeg Faerch, Tyler Mane, Sheri Moon Zombie, Pat Skipper, Dee Wallace Stone, William Forsythe, Ken Foree, Lew Temple, Danny Trejo, Hanna Hall, Danielle Harris, Adrienne Barbeau, Clint Howard. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: R, 120 min., Horror, Box office gross: $58.104 million, Weinstein Co.
Illegal Tender
After the gangsters who killed his father come to settle a score, a teenage boy and his mother turn the tables on the killers in this story of one Latino family's quest for honor and revenge as the hunted become the hunters. Wilson De Leon Jr. (Rick Gonzalez) is an exceptional college student with an adoring girlfriend, doting mother and a future full of promise. He has never wanted for anything, and he has never been forced to stand his ground. But there's a dark past he must face: Forced to flee her home after gangsters killed her husband, Wilson's mother, Millie (Wanda De Jesus), made an oath to give her children only the best. But all that changes when an enemy from the past catches up with them. It's finally time to take action--and now, they're done running. Weapons at the ready, Wilson, Jr. and Millie prepare for a final showdown with the murderer who robbed him of a father and her of a husband. Vitals: Director: Franc. Reyes. Stars: Rick Gonzalez, Wanda De Jesus, Dania Ramirez, Tego Calderon, Manny Perez, Gary Perez. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: R, 108 min., Thriller, Box office gross: $3.054 million, Universal.
Last Legion, The
A warrior and a wizard embark on an action-packed mission to save the crumbling Roman Empire and its young heir. As they battle across medieval Europe, their epic journey reveals the origin of the legendary sword Excalibur and King Arthur. Vitals: Director: Doug Lefler. Stars: Colin Firth, Ben Kingsley, Aishwarya Rai, Thomas Sangster, Rupert Friend, Peter Mullan, Rory James, Lee Ingleby, Owen Teale, Ferdinand Kingsley. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 110 min., Adventure, Box office gross: $5.920 million, Weinstein Co.
Once
Romantic music-infused story of two struggling musicians. When a brokenhearted street musician clicks with a beautiful and feisty keyboardist, the unlikely couple decides they have nothing -- and everything -- to lose. Over the course of one electric week, the duo writes, performs and records an incredible cycle of songs every bit as spontaneous and soulful as their improbable romance. Stars singer, songwriter and current Billboard chart-topper Glen Hansard ("The Frames") and newcomer Marketa Irglova as the street musician and a Czech immigrant, respectively, as they write, rehearse and record songs that artistically reveal their unique love story. Written and directed by Hansard's former band-mate John Carney. Vitals: Director: John Carney. Stars: Glen Hansard, Marketa Irglova, Bill Hodnett, Danuse Ktrestova.. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: R, 86 min., Musical Drama, Box office gross: $9.087 million, Fox.
Simpsons Movie, The
In the eagerly-awaited film based on the hit television series, Homer must save the world from a catastrophe he himself created. It all begins with Homer, his new pet pig, and a leaky silo full of droppings -- a combination that triggers a disaster the likes of which Springfield has never experienced. As Marge is outraged by Homer's monumental blunder, a vengeful mob descends on the Simpson household. The family makes a narrow escape, but is soon divided by both location and conflict. The Springfield citizenry has every reason to be out for Simpson blood. The calamity triggered by Homer has drawn the attention of U.S. President Arnold Schwarzenegger and Environmental Protection Agency head Russ Cargill. "You know sir," Cargill tells the president, "when you made me head of the EPA, you were applauded for appointing one of the most successful men in America to the least successful agency in government. And why did I take the job? Because I'm a rich man who wanted to give something back. Not the money, but something." That "something" is a devil's plan to contain the disaster. As the fates of Springfield and the world hang in the balance, Homer embarks on a personal odyssey of redemption -- seeking forgiveness from Marge, the reunion of his splintered family, and the salvation of his hometown. Vitals: Director: David Silverman. Voices: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, Harry Shearer, Pamela Hayden, Tress MacNeille, Albert Brooks, rock band Green Day, Tom Hanks. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13,87 min., Animated Comedy, Box office gross: $180.272 million, Fox.
Stardust
Based on the best-selling graphic novel by Neil Gaiman and Charles Vess, "Stardust" is an fantasy adventure tale that begins in a village in England and ends up in places that exist in an imaginary world. A young man named Tristan (Charlie Cox) tries to win the heart of Victoria (Sienna Miller), the beautiful but cold object of his desire, by going on a quest to retrieve a fallen star. His journey takes him to a mysterious and forbidden land beyond the walls of his village. On his odyssey, Tristan finds the star, which has transformed into a striking girl named Yvaine (Claire Danes). However, Tristan is not the only one seeking the star. A king's (Peter O'Toole) four living sons -- not to mention the ghosts of their three dead brothers -- all need the star as they vie for the throne. Tristan must also overcome the evil witch, Lamia (Michelle Pfeiffer), who needs the star to make her young again. As Tristan battles to survive these threats, encountering a pirate named Captain Shakespeare (Robert De Niro) and a shady trader named Ferdy the Fence (Ricky Gervais) along the way, his quest changes. He must now win the heart of the star for himself as he discovers the meaning of true love. Vitals: Director: Matthew Vaughn. Stars: Claire Danes, Charlie Cox, Sienna Miller, Ricky Gervais, Jason Flemyng, Peter O'Toole, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, Ian McKellen (narrator). 2007, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 128 min., Fantasy, Box office gross: $38.3345 million, Paramount.
Underdog
Based on the 1964-73 TV series. Superhero Underdog's mysterious origins begins in the wake of an accident in the high-tech lab of the maniacal scientist Dr. Simon Barsinister (Peter Dinklage). Suddenly, an ordinary, down-and-out young Beagle named Shoeshine finds himself with extraordinary powers, not to mention the unexpected ability to turn his bark into real speech. Now, armed with a "fetching" superhero costume, this unlikely caped crusader and humbly self-described Underdog (voiced by Jason Lee) vows to protect the beleaguered citizens of Capitol City -- especially one beautiful Spaniel named Polly Purebred (voiced by Amy Adams). When a sinister plot by Barsinister and his overgrown henchman Cad (Patrick Warburton), threatens to destroy Capitol City, only Underdog can save the day. Vitals: Director: Frederik Du Chau. Stars: Jim Belushi, Peter Dinklage, John Slattery, Patrick Warburton, Brad Garrett, voices of Jason Lee and Amy Adams. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: PG, 81 min., Family, Box office gross: $43.256 million, Disney.
Due December 23:
Eastern PromisesThe film follows the mysterious and ruthless Nikolai Luzhin (Viggo Mortensen), who is tied to one of London's most notorious organized crime families. His carefully maintained existence is jarred when he crosses paths with Anna (Naomi Watts), an innocent midwife trying to right a wrong, who accidentally uncovers potential evidence against the family. The charismatic Russian-born Nikolai is a driver for one of London's most notorious organized crime families of Eastern European origin. The family itself is part of the Vory V Zakone criminal brotherhood. Headed by Semyon (Armin Mueller-Stahl), whose courtly charm as the welcoming proprietor of the plush Trans-Siberian restaurant impeccably masks a cold and brutal core, the family's fortunes are tested by Semyon's volatile son and enforcer, Kirill (Vincent Cassel), who is more tightly bound to Nikolai than to his own father. But Nikolai's carefully maintained existence is jarred once he crosses paths at Christmastime with Anna Khitrova (Naomi Watts), a midwife at a North London hospital. Anna is deeply affected by the desperate situation of a young teenager who dies while giving birth to a baby. Anna resolves to try to trace the baby's lineage and relatives. The girl's personal diary also survives her; it is written in Russian, and Anna seeks answers in it. What she discovers is that the young girl was a forced prostitute in the Vory family. With Semyon and Kirill closing ranks and Anna pressing her inquiries, Nikolai unexpectedly finds his loyalties divided. The family tightens its grip on him; who can, or should, he trust? Several lives -- including his own -- hang in the balance as a harrowing chain of murder, deceit, and retribution reverberates through the darkest corners of both the family and London itself. A brutal, visceral outing from a master of horror and thrills. Vitals: Director: David Cronenberg. Stars: Viggo Mortensen, Naomi Watts, Vincent Cassel, Armin Mueller-Stahl, Sinead Cusack, Donald Sumpter, Jerzy Skolimowski. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: R, 100 min., Thriller, Box office gross: $16.666 million, Universal.
Kingdom, The
When a terrorist bomb detonates inside a Western housing compound in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, an international incident is ignited. While diplomats slowly debate equations of territorialism, FBI Special Agent Ronald Fleury (Jamie Foxx) quickly assembles an elite team (Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman) and negotiates a secret five-day trip into Saudi Arabia to locate the madman behind the bombing. Upon landing in the desert kingdom, however, Fleury and his team discover Saudi authorities suspicious and unwelcoming of American interlopers into what they consider a local matter. Hamstrung by protocol -- and with the clock ticking on their five days -- the FBI agents find their expertise worthless without the trust of their Saudi counterparts, who want to locate the terrorist in their homeland on their own terms. Fleury's crew finds a like-minded partner in Saudi Colonel Al-Ghazi (Ashraf Barhoum), who helps them navigate royal politics and unlock the secrets of the crime scene and the workings of an extremist cell bent on further destruction. With these unlikely allies sharing a propulsive commitment to crack the case, the team is led to the killer's front door in a blistering do-or-die confrontation. Now in a fight for their own lives, strangers united by one mission won't stop until justice is found in the kingdom. Vitals: Director: Peter Berg. Stars: Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, Jeremy Piven, Jason Bateman, Francis Fisher, Minka Kelly, Tom Bresnahan. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: R, 110 min., War Action, Box office gross: $47.456 million, Universal.
Rush Hour 3
Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker reunite with director Brett Ratner for an all new adventure that takes them to Paris where they confront deadly Triads, beautiful women, an angry cabbie and an invasive French inspector to uncover the secret at the heart of the Triad syndicate. Half a world away in Los Angeles, Ambassador Han is about to disclose it. In his possession is explosive new evidence about the inner workings of the Triads -- the most powerful and notorious crime syndicate in the world. The Ambassador has discovered the identity of Shy Shen, the very crux of the wide-ranging crime ring, and he's about to reveal it to the World Criminal Court -- until he is silenced by an assassin's bullet. The Triads will go to any lengths to make sure their secrets stay buried, and there's only one hope for stopping them. Here come Detective Carter and Inspector Lee, who head to the City of Lights to stop the global criminal conspiracy and save the life of the Ambassador's now-grown daughter, Soo Yung. They don't know the city, the language or even exactly what they're looking for, but their race will take them across the city, from the depths of the Paris underground to the breathtaking heights of the Eiffel Tower, as they fight to outrun the world's most deadly criminals and save the day. Vitals: Director: Brett Ratner. Stars: Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Tom Wilkinson, Elizabeth Pena, Tzi Ma, Julia Hsu. 2007, CC, MPAA rating: PG-13, 90 min., Action Comedy, Box office gross: $128.721 million, New Line.
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NEWS
Coming Soon:
Due February 26 is the creep vampire flick "30 Days of Night," set in Barrow, Alaska, where the sun sets and doesn't rise for more than 30 consecutive days and nights, giving bloodsuckers plenty of time to thrive; from Sony on DVD and Blu-ray Disc ... "Lust, Caution," Ang Lee's erotic and suspenseful tale of intrigue in Shanghai during WWII, arrives February 19 from Universal.
DVD Collectibles:
Ridley Scott's "Blade Runner" is one of the most important science
fiction films -- no, one of the most important films -- of the 20th
century. Riffing on Phillip K. Dick's "Do Androids Dream of Electric
Sheep?" Scott put together a film that has had immeasurable influence
on society for its futuristic depiction of a dystopian world -- and has
been the fertile foundation for hundreds of sci-fi films to come. The
film has appeared on more "Top Five" sci-fi lists than any other film.
The story of the film's postproduction -- the trimming of important
scenes, the added voice-over narration, the different versions -- and
then the film's poor critical and audience response on its initial
release -- has been well documented elsewhere. Suffice to say that, on
its 25th anniversary, Scott went back into postproduction to create the
long-awaited definitive new version. "Blade Runner: The Final Cut,"
spectacularly restored and remastered from original elements and
scanned at 4K resolution, contains never-before-seen added/extended
scenes, added lines, new and improved special effects, director and
filmmaker commentary, an all-new 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track and
more. Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Edward James Olmos, Joanna Cassidy,
Sean Young, and Daryl Hannah are among some 80 stars, filmmakers and
others who participate in the extensive bonus features. Three DVD
editions will be available this week: a Two-Disc Special Edition
($20.97), a Four-Disc Collector's Edition ($34.99) and a Five-Disc
Ultimate Collector's Edition ($78.92) in collectible "Deckard
Briefcase" packaging. Simultaneous HD DVD and Blu-ray versions of the
five-disc set, in both digi-pak and "Deckard Briefcase" (in numbered,
limited quantities) will also be released. Only the four-disc and
five-disc sets have all the versions of the film (The new version plus
three previous versions: 1982 theatrical version that contains
Deckard/Harrison Ford's character narration and has Deckard and
Rachel's (Sean Young) "happy ending" escape scene; the 1982
international version, which was used on U.S. home video, laserdisc and
cable releases up to 1992, is not rated, and contains some extended
action scenes in contrast to the theatrical version; and the 1992
director's cut, which omits Deckard's voiceover narration and removes
the "happy ending" finale. It adds the famously controversial "unicorn"
sequence, a vision that Deckard has which suggests that he, too, may be
a replicant).For in-depth information on each release, turn to our
"Blade Runner" calendar listing. From Warner.
Over the years, Anchor Bay Entertainment has released numerous special
editions of "The Evil Dead," each one more dynamic and diabolical than
the one that preceded it, in an effort to continually satiate and
satisfy the ravenous hunger of the film's worldwide legion of fans.
This three-disc set, "The Evil Dead Ultimate Edition," commemorates the film's 25th anniversary and includes: Disc One:
Widescreen version, "One by One We Will Take You: The Untold Saga of
The Evil Dead" featurette, commentary by director Sam Raimi and
producer Robert Tapert ; Disc Two: Full-frame version, "The Evil Dead: Treasures From the Cutting Room Floor" featurette, commentary by actor Bruce Campbell; Disc Three Special Features:
"Life After Death: The Ladies of the Evil Dead": At home, on the road
and behind-the-scenes with Ellen Sandweiss, Betsy Baker and Theresa
Tilly, "The Ladies of the Evil Dead Meet Bruce Campbell: Ellen, Betsy
& Theresa join Bruce for an informal yakfest, "Unconventional":Cast
and crew reunite to discuss horror conventions and beyond, "At the
Drive-In": No-holds-barred Q&A with a drive-in audience of hardcore
fans, "Reunion Panel": The once-in-a-lifetime panel at Chicago's
Flashback Weekend Horror Convention, "Discovering the Evil Dead": A
look at the British home video release of "The Evil Dead" and it's
place in the "Video Nasties" debate, make-up test, trailer, TV spots,
still gallery. $34.97. From Anchor Bay Entertainment.From TV to Video:
Due this week: "The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Volume 2" (1992-93, 1996) a nine-disc set, $117.99 from Paramount ... "Crooked E: The Unshredded Truth About Enron"
(2003) a telefilm about the Enron scandal, starring Shannon Elizabeth,
Brian Dennehy, Christian Kane, from Echo Bridge Home Entertainment ... "The Mod Squad: Season 1, Volume 1" (1968-69) is a four-disc set with 13 episodes, $42.99 from Paramount ... "One Tree Hill: The Complete Fourth Season" is a six-disc set with 21 episodes, $59.98 from Warner ... "Rawhide: Season 2, Volume 2" (1960) is a four-disc set with 16 episodes, $42.99 from Paramount.
Buzzin' the 'B's:
"Hatchet" (2007) is a backwoods slasher film about a
deformed boy, accidentally killed, who returns from the grave to wreak
revenge. In rated and unrated versions. Stars Joel Moore, Tamara
Feldman, Deon Richmond, Mercedes McNab and Kane Hodder; from Anchor Bay
... "Bring It On: In It to Win It" (2007) is the
third direct-to-video sequel in the popular teen franchise; this one
stars Ashley Benson, Michael Copon, Cassie Scerbo, Jennifer Tisdale and
Kierstin Koppel; from Universal.
"Cinderella II: Dreams Come True" (2002) is a direct-to-video sequel with three tales and a game, $29.99 from Disney.
Special Interest:
"Deep Water" is a 2005 documentary
narrated by Tilda Swinton that details the true story of Donald
Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who enters the most brutal nautical
challenge ever -- the very first solo, non-stop, round-the-world
sailboat race. After risking his finances and finding an investor,
Crowhurst choose his boat, enlists nine extremely skilled sailors and
begins preparing for his voyage, a process that was riddled with
obstacles and omens. Setting sail on the last eligible day, Crowhurst
began a treacherous journey that would leave six of the nine men dead,
and his own life, sanity, and victory hanging in the balance.
Documentary filmmakers Louise Osmond and Jerry Rothwell use Crowhurst's
recently re-discovered original 16mm films and tape recordings -- as
well as numerous interviews with his wife Clare, son Simon and his
competitor Robin Knox-Johnson -- to reconstruct the extraordinary
journey. From Genius Products ... "Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Second Gig: Individual 11"
is a single disc of the anime classic series, $29.97 from Manga Video
... Carmen Electra brings her version of total body fitness routines
home in "Carmen Electra's Aerobic Striptease: In the Bedroom" and "Carmen Electra's Aerobic Striptease: Vegas Strip," $19.99 each from Paramount ... "2007 FIA Formula One World Championship Review"
(2007) features all the action from every race in the 2007 Formula One
season, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and amazing
on-board camera shots; $29.99 from SRO Sports ... "A to Z of MotoGP
(2007) is a definitive guide to the world's fastest and most
prestigious motorcycle racing championship; $24.99 from SRO Sports ... "MLS Cup 2007: The Championship Match"
(2007) features full-game broadcasts of the soccer championship match
between the Houston Dynamo and the Houston Dynasty; $19.95 from A&E
Home Video.
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THIS WEEK'S DVD RELEASES:
Weekly listings of DVD releases can now be viewed on mobile
devices at www.tagtag.com/onvideo
A to Z of MotoGP (2007) Definitive guide to the world's fastest and most prestigious motorcycle racing championship; $24.99. (SRO Sports ).
Balls of Fury (2007) Dan Fogler, Christopher Walken, George Lopez, Maggie Q, James Hong, Terry Crews, Robert Patrick. Extras: Deleted scenes, alternate ending, "Balls Out: The Making of Balls of Fury," "Under the Balls: The Life of a Ball Wrangler" "mockumentary." (Universal).
Blade Runner: The Final Cut (1982) Dir.: Ridley Scott; Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, Edward James Olmos, M. Emmet Walsh, Daryl Hannah, William Sanderson, Brion James, Joe Turkel, Joanna Cassidy, James Hong, Morgan Paull. Director Scott's new version of the film, restored and remastered from original elements, containing never-before-seen and extended scenes. Three DVD editions will be available: a Two-Disc Special Edition ($20.97), a Four-Disc Collector's Edition ($34.99) and a Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition ($78.92) in collectible "Deckard Briefcase" packaging. Simultaneous HD DVD and Blu-ray versions of the five-disc set, in both digi-pak and "Deckard Briefcase" (in numbered, limited quantities) will also be released. (Warner).
Blade Runner: The Final Cut Special Edition (Two discs) Disc 1: Ridley Scott's all-new "final cut" version of the film. Restored and remastered with added and extended scenes, added lines, new and cleaner special effects and all new 5.1 Dolby Digital audio. Also includes: Commentary by Ridley Scott; commentary by executive producer/ co-screenwriter Hampton Fancher and co-screenwriter David Peoples, producer Michael Deely and production executive Katherine Haber; commentaries by visual futurist Syd Mead, production designer Lawrence G. Paull, art director David L. Snyder and special photographic effects supervisors Douglas Trumbull, Richard Yuricich and David Dryer. Disc 2: "Dangerous Days: Making Blade Runner": A feature-length authoritative documentary revealing all the elements that shaped this hugely influential cinema landmark. Cast, crew, critics and colleagues give a behind-the-scenes, in-depth look at the film -- from its literary roots and inception through casting, production, visuals and special effects to its controversial legacy and place in Hollywood history.
Blade Runner: Collector's Edition (Four discs) The Four-Disc Collector's Edition includes everything from the Two-Disc Special Edition plus three additional versions of the film, as well as an "Enhancement Archive" bonus disc of enhanced content that includes 90 minutes of deleted footage and rare or never-before-seen items in featurettes and galleries that cover the film's amazing history, production teams, special effects, impact on society, promotional trailers, TV spots, and much more. Disc 3: 1982 Theatrical Version: This is the first theatrical version of the film. It contains Deckard/Harrison Ford's character narration and has Deckard and Rachel's (Sean Young) "happy ending" escape scene. 1982 International Version: Also used on U.S. home video, laserdisc and cable releases up to 1992. This version is not rated, and contains some extended action scenes in contrast to the Theatrical Version. 1992 Director's Cut: The Director's Cut omits Deckard's voiceover narration and removes the "happy ending" finale. It adds the famously-controversial "unicorn" sequence, a vision that Deckard has which suggests that he, too, may be a replicant. Disc 4: Bonus Disc: "Enhancement Archive": Featurettes: "The Electric Dreamer: Remembering Philip K. Dick," "Sacrificial Sheep: The Novel vs. The Film," :Signs of the Times: Graphic Design," "Fashion Forward: Wardrobe & Styling," "The Light That Burns: Remembering Jordan Cronenweth," "Promoting Dystopia: Rendering the Poster Art," "Deck-a-Rep: The True Nature of Rick Deckard," "Nexus Generation: Fans & Filmmakers"; "Philip K. Dick: The Blade Runner Interviews" audio; "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep Cover Gallery" images; "The Art of Blade Runner" image galleries; screen tests: Rachel & Pris; unit photography gallery; deleted and alternate scenes; 1982 promotional featurettes; trailers and TV spots; marketing and merchandise gallery images.
Blade Runner: Ultimate Collector's Edition (Five discs) The Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition includes everything in the Four-Disc Edition, plus the ultra-rare, near-legendary Workprint version of the film, newly remastered. The Ultimate Collector's Edition will be presented in a unique five-disc digi-package with handle which is a stylish version of Rick Deckard's own briefcase. Each briefcase will be individually numbered and in limited supply. Included is a lenticular motion film clip from the original feature, miniature origami unicorn figurine, miniature replica spinner car, collector's photographs as well as a signed personal letter from Scott. Disc 5: Workprint Version: This rare version of the film is considered by some to be the most radically different of all the "Blade Runner" cuts. It includes an altered opening scene, no Deckard narration until the final scenes, no "unicorn" sequence, no Deckard/Rachel "happy ending," altered lines between Batty (Rutger Hauer) and his creator Tyrell (Joe Turkell), alternate music and much more. Also includes: Commentary by Paul M. Sammon, author of "Future Noir: The Making of Blade Runner" and a featurette, "All Our Variant Futures: From Workprint to Final Cut."
Braveheart Special Collector's Edition (1995) Mel Gibson, Patrick McGoohan, Catherine McCormack. Two-disc set. Extras: "A Writer's Journey" featurette, "Alba gu Grah! The Making of Braveheart," "Tales of William Wallace," cast interviews, photo montage. (Paramount).
Bring It On: In It to Win It (2007) Ashley Benson, Michael Copon, Cassie Scerbo, Jennifer Tisdale, Kierstin Koppel. Third direct-to-video sequel. Extras: Deleted scene, "Lights, Cameras, Bring It!" behind-the-scenes featurette, "East Coast Proper" and "West Coast Flair" dance featurettes, "The Rumble With Tony G." "Cheer Off! Learn How to Cheer With Tony G." (Universal).
Carmen Electra's Aerobic Striptease: In the Bedroom. Carmen's back with another version of her total body fitness routines; $19.99. (Paramount).
Carmen Electra's Aerobic Striptease: Vegas Strip. Carmen's back with another version of her total body fitness routines; $19.99. (Paramount).
Cinderella II: Dreams Come True (2002) Direct-to-video sequel with three tales and a game, $29.99. (Disney).
Crooked E: The Unshredded Truth About Enron (2003) Shannon Elizabeth, Brian Dennehy, Christian Kane. TV drama about the Enron scandal. (Echo Bridge Home Entertainment).
Deep Water (2005) Documentary narrated by Tilda Swinton. The film details the true story of Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who enters the most brutal nautical challenge ever -- the very first solo, non-stop, round-the-world sailboat race. After risking his finances and finding an investor, Crowhurst choose his boat, enlists nine extremely skilled sailors and begins preparing for his voyage, a process that was riddled with obstacles and omens. Setting sail on the last eligible day, Crowhurst began a treacherous journey that would leave six of the nine men dead, and his own life, sanity, and victory hanging in the balance. Documentary filmmakers Louise Osmond and Jerry Rothwell use Crowhurst's recently re-discovered original 16mm films and tape recordings -- as well as numerous interviews with his wife Clare, son Simon and his competitor Robin Knox-Johnson -- to reconstruct the extraordinary journey. (Genius Products).
The Evil Dead Ultimate Edition Commemorates the film's 25th anniversary. Over the years, Anchor Bay Entertainment has released numerous special editions of "The Evil Dead," each one more dynamic and diabolical than the one that preceded it, in an effort to continually satiate and satisfy the ravenous hunger of the film's worldwide legion of fans. This three-disc set includes: Disc One: Widescreen version, "One by One We Will Take You: The Untold Saga of The Evil Dead" featurette, commentary by director Sam Raimi and producer Robert Tapert; Disc Two: Full-frame version, "The Evil Dead: Treasures From the Cutting Room Floor" featurette, commentary by actor Bruce Campbell; Disc Three Special Features: "Life After Death: The Ladies of the Evil Dead": At home, on the road and behind-the-scenes with Ellen Sandweiss, Betsy Baker and Theresa Tilly, "The Ladies of the Evil Dead Meet Bruce Campbell: Ellen, Betsy & Theresa join Bruce for an informal yakfest, "Unconventional":Cast and crew reunite to discuss horror conventions and beyond, "At the Drive-In": No-holds-barred Q&A with a drive-in audience of hardcore fans, "Reunion Panel": The once-in-a-lifetime panel at Chicago's Flashback Weekend Horror Convention, "Discovering the Evil Dead": A look at the British home video release of "The Evil Dead" and it's place in the "Video Nasties" debate, make-up test, trailer, TV spots, still gallery. $34.97. (Anchor Bay Entertainment).
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Second Gig: Individual 11. Single disc, $29.97. (Manga Video).
Halloween (2007) Scout Taylor-Compton, Malcolm McDowell, Daeg Faerch, Tyler Mane, Sheri Moon Zombie, Pat Skipper, Dee Wallace Stone, William Forsythe, Ken Foree, Lew Temple, Danny Trejo, Hanna Hall, Danielle Harris, Adrienne Barbeau, Clint Howard, Two-disc unrated director's cut. Extras: Deleted scenes, Alternate Ending, bloopers, commentary by director Rob Zombie, "The Many Masks of Michael Myers," "Re-Imagining Halloween," "Meet the Cast," casting sessions, Scout Taylor-Compton screen test (Laurie Strode). (Weinstein Co./Genius Products).
Hatchet (2007) Joel Moore, Tamara Feldman, Deon Richmond, Mercedes McNab, Kane Hodder. Backwoods slasher film about a deformed boy, accidentally killed, who returns from the grave to wreak revenge. In rated and unrated versions. Extras: Commentary by writer-director Adam Green, cinematographer Will Barratt and actors Tamara Feldman, Joel David Moore and Deon Richmond; "The Making of Hatchet," "Meeting Victor Crowley": in-depth look at the creation of a new horror icon; "Guts & Gore" makeup and prosthetic effects featurette; more. (Anchor Bay).
Illegal Tender (2007) Rick Gonzalez, Wanda De Jesus, Dania Ramirez, Tego Calderon, Manny Perez, Gary Perez. Extras: Deleted scenes, "The Making of Illegal Tender," "Dame Dame" music video. (Universal).
The Last Legion (2007) Colin Firth, Ben Kingsley, Aishwarya Rai, Thomas Sangster, Rupert Friend, Peter Mullan, Rory James, Lee Ingleby, Owen Teale, Ferdinand Kingsley Extras: Deleted scenes, commentary by director Doug Lefler, fight scene choreography featurette, "Making The Last Legion" featurette, "From The Director's Sketchbook: A Storyboard-to-Film Comparison." (Genius Products/Weinstein Company).
MLS Cup 2007: The Championship Match (2007) Full-game broadcasts of the soccer championship match between the Houston Dynamo and the Houston Dynasty; $19.95. (A&E Home Video).
The Mod Squad: Season 1, Volume 1 (1968-69) Four-disc set with 13 episodes, $42.99. Extras: "Forming the Squad" featurette, "The Guest Stars of The Mod Squad," "Inside The Teeth of the Barracuda" (Episode 1). (Paramount).
National Treasure Collecter's Edition (2004) Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha, Sean Bean, Jon Voight, Harvey Keitel, Christopher Plummer. Two-disc special edition timed for the theatrical release of the sequel. Extras: Four new featurettes, sneak peek at "National Treasure: Book of Secrets." (Disney).
Once (2007) Glen Hansard, Marketa Irglova, Bill Hodnett, Danuse Ktrestova. Extras: Commentary by director John Carney and actor-musician Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova; free music download of "Falling Slowly" from the soundtrack; "Making a Modern Day Musical" featurette, "More Guy, More Girl" featurette; webisodes. (Fox).
One Tree Hill: The Complete Fourth Season. Six-disc set with 21 episodes, $59.98. Extras: Commentary on select episodes; unaired scenes; gag reel; "One Tree Hill in Your Town" behind-the-scenes look at taking the show on the road to the town of one lucky fan to film "It Gets the Worst at Night" with cast, crew and the lucky fans; "Tree Hill's Charity Basketball Game Highlights"; "Tree Hill High Time Capsule." (Warner).
Rawhide: Season 2, Volume 2 (1960) Four-disc set with 16 episodes, $42.99. (Paramount).
Simpsons Movie, The (2007) Voices: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, Harry Shearer, Pamela Hayden, Tress MacNeille, Albert Brooks, rock band Green Day, Tom Hanks. Extras: Commentary by James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, Al Jean, Mike Scully, David Silverman, Dan Castellaneta, and Yeardley Smith; commentary by David Silverman, Mike B. Anderson, Steven Dean Moore and Rich Moore; deleted scenes; Homer's monologue on "The Tonight Show"; The Simpsons judge "American Idol"; Homer Introduces "American Idol"; "Let's All Go to the Lobby"; Alternate character designs by the directors and Matt Groening. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Fox).
Stardust (2007) Claire Danes, Charlie Cox, Sienna Miller, Ricky Gervais, Jason Flemyng, Peter O'Toole, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, Ian McKellen (narrator). Extras: "Good Omens: The Making of Stardust," deleted scenes, blooper reel, additional scenes. Also available on HD DVD. (Paramount)
2007 FIA Formula One World Championship Review (2007) All the action from every race in the 2007 Formula One season, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and amazing on-board camera shots; $29.99. (SRO Sports).
Underdog (2007) Jim Belushi, Peter Dinklage, John Slattery, Patrick Warburton, Brad Garrett, voices of Amy Adams and Jason Lee. Extras: Bloopers, deleted scenes, original episodes from the classic television series. (Disney).
Due December 23:
American Pie Presents: Beta House (2007) John White, Steve Talley, Jake Siegel, Jordan Prentice, Christopher McDonald, Eugene Levy. Another direct-to-video edition of the "American Pie" series, this time taking place in college. Extras: Deleted scenes and bloopers, behind-the-scenes interviews and featurettes. (Universal).
Eastern Promises (2007) Dir,: David Cronenberg; Viggo Mortensen, Naomi Watts, Vincent Cassel, Armin Mueller-Stahl, Sinead Cusack, Donald Sumpter, Jerzy Skolimowski. Extras: "Secrets and Stories" behind-the-scenes featurette, "Marked for Life" tattoo featurette.(Universal).
The Kingdom (2007) Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, Jeremy Piven, Jason Bateman, Francis Fisher, Minka Kelly, Tom Bresnahan. Extras: Deleted Scenes, "Character by Character: The Apartment Shootout," "Creating the Kingdom" behind-the-scenes featurette, "Constructing the Freeway Sequence" featurette, "History of The Kingdom: An Interactive Timeline" (allows viewers to scroll through decades of history to learn more about key events in this animated timeline that branches off into archival news stories, short featurettes, text based stories, etc.), commentary by director Peter Berg. Also available on HD DVD. (Universal).
Rush Hour 3 (2007) Dir.: Brett Ratner; Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Tom Wilkinson, Elizabeth Pena, Tzi Ma, Julia Hsu.As a single disc and two-disc Platinum edition. Extras: Commentary by Ratner, deleted scenes, outtakes, "Le Rush Hour Trois Production Diary" featurette, more. (New Line).
For more DVD info, check out our DVD calendar pages at
<http://www.onvideo.org/calendar/cal_dvd.htm>
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Copyright 2007 CyberPod. All rights reserved.
ISSN 1094-3676
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