New Releases on DVD – February 2009

Appaloosa

Two friends hired to police a small town that is suffering under the rule of a rancher find their job complicated by a young widow who arrives on the scene with only a dollar and keen sense of survival. Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Ed Harris, Renée Zellweger, Jeremy Irons, Timothy Spall, Lance Henriksen. Based on the novel by Robert B. Parker.  Rated R

Beverly Hills Chihuahua

Chloe is a pampered Beverly Hills chihuahua who, while on vacation in Mexico with her owner’s niece, Rachel, gets lost. She must rely on her new friends to help her get back home before she is caught by a dognapper who wants to ransom her. In the meantime, Papi, a male chihuahua who is in love with Chloe goes in pursuit of her. Papi’s owner is a handsome young gardener for Rachel’s aunt Viv. He slowly develops a romantic interest in Rachel. Chloe befriends Delgado, a lonely German Shepherd, who travels with her and protects her from Diablo, the evil Doberman, who wants to return her and her diamond collar to the dognapper. Voices: Andy Garcia, George Lopez, Drew Barrymore, Cheech Marin, Paul Rodriguez, Edward James Olmos, Luis Guzmán. Rated PG

The Changeling

Set in a working-class suburb Los Angeles, 1928. Christine says goodbye to her son, Walter, and departs for work. Arriving home, Christine discovers that Walter is nowhere to be found. Christine launches a desperate a search for her son. Then, a boy claiming to be Christine’s son appears out of thin air. Knowing the boy is not hers, Christine invites the child to stay in her home. Christine cannot accept the injustice being pushed upon her and continues to challenge the Los Angeles police force at every turn. The police slander Christine and paint her as an unfit mother. Christine challenges the system and the only person willing to aid her in her search is benevolent local activist Reverend Briegleb. Cast: Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich. Rated R

City of Ember

For centuries, the residents of the underground City of Ember have flourished in an amazing world of glittering lights and quiet contentment. But when the City’s massive power generator begins to fail, the streetlamps fade – along with the hopes of the townspeople. Now it will be up to two courageous teenagers to follow a trail of clues left by the ancient builders to find the way out of Ember before their world is plunged into complete darkness. Cast: David Ryall, Harry Treadaway, Tim Robbins, Bill Murray, B.J. Hogg, Toby Jones. Based on the book by Jeanne Duprau. Rated PG

Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog

Aspiring super-villain Dr. Horrible wants to join the Evil League of Evil and win the girl of his dreams, but his nemesis, Captain Hammer, stops him at every turn in this complete three-part musical from Joss Whedon. Cast: Neil Patrick Harris, Nathan Fillion, Felicia Day. Not Rated

Eagle Eye

Jerry and Rachel are two strangers who have been ripped from their ordinary lives when they are “activated” as part of a high-tech assassination plot. Through blistering chases and shocking twists they try to escape –but where can they go when the enemy is everywhere? Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Michelle Monaghan, Rosario Dawson, Michael Chiklis, Anthony Mackie, Billy Bob Thornton. Rated PG-13

Fireproof

Lt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighter’s adage: Never leave your partner behind – it’s a natural instinct. But when it comes to marriage, it’s another story. After a decade of marriage, Caleb and Catherine have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. As the two prepare for divorce, Caleb’s dad asks his son to try The Love Dare experiment. While hoping the experiment has nothing to do with his parents’ newfound faith, Caleb commits to the challenge. Now he will have to attempt to love his wife while avoiding God’s love for him. He will need to be able to demonstrate love over and over again to a person who is no longer receptive to his love. Cast: Kirk Cameron, Erin Bethea, Ken Bevel. Rated PG

Ghost Town

Bertram Pincus is an irritable, cranky Manhattan dentist who develops the unwelcome ability to see annoying dead people. When a smooth-talking ghost traps Bertram into a romantic scheme involving his widow Gwen, they become entangled in a hilarious predicament between the now and the hereafter! Cast: Ricky Gervais, Téa Leoni, Greg Kinnear, Billy Campbell, Kristen Wiig, Dana Ivey. Rated: PG-13

High School Musical 3: Senior Year

Troy, Gabriella, Chad and Sharpay are getting ready to graduate from high school. As college approaches, the senior are struggling with the idea of being separated from one another. Along with the rest of the Wildcats, they stage a spring musical to address their experiences, hopes and fears about their future. Cast: Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Lucas Grabeel, Corbin Bleu, Monique Coleman. Rated G

Madagascar 2: Escape from Africa

In this Dreamworks animated feature, follow Central Park Zoo animals, including, Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo, along with the psychotic penguins, the monkeys, and the lemur leaders as they unexpectedly are now stranded in the middle of Africa. While Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria are rather happy with their new environment, they quickly realize that it’s not all that it seems. Meanwhile, the penguins attempt to repair the plane that they accidentally destroyed.  Rated PG

Nick & Nora’s Infinite Playlist

Nick knows exactly how long it has been since Tris broke up with him – three weeks, two days, and 23 hours. Now she is at his gig, with a new guy. Nick can’t understand how she could have moved on so fast. But that night, Nick meets Norah. They have nothing in common except their taste in music. This begins the night of Nick, Norah and Manhattan. Now, this chance meeting turned into a crusdade to find a legendary rock band’s secret show, ends up being a first date and a night that will change their lives forever. Cast: Michael Cera, Kat Dennings, Alexis Dziena, Ari Graynor, Aaron Yoo, Jay Baruchel.  Rated PG-13

Nights in Rodanthe

Paul is a surgeon who long ago traded his family for career. Adrienne is a devoted mother trying to move on after her husband’s infidelity. At a remote inn in the Outer Banks, the pair expect to do some serious soul-searching, but an approaching storm forces them to turn to each other. Cast: Diane Lane, Richard Gere, Scott Glenn, Christopher Meloni, Viola Davis. Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks. Rated PG-13

Pride and Glory

Centers on a multi-generational family of New York City Police officers. The family’s moral codes are tested when Ray Tierney investigates a case that reveals an incendiary police corruption scandal that happens to involve his own brother-in-law. For Ray, the truth is revelatory, a Pandora’s Box that threatens to upend not only the Tierney legacy, but the entire NYPD. Cast: Colin Farrell, Edward Norton, Jon Voight, Noah Emmerich, Jennifer Ehle. Rated R

Religulous

Comedian and TV host Bill Maher takes a pilgrimage across the globe on a mind-opening journey into the ultimate taboo: questioning religion. Rated R

Savage Grace

A dramatization of the true story of a young woman who married into a wealthy family whose extremely close relationship with her son turns into a deadly tragedy. Cast: Julianne Moore, Stephen Dillane, Eddie Redmayne. Based on the book by Natalie Robins & Steven M.L. Aronson.  Not Rated

The Secret Life of Bees

Lily Owens is a young girl who lives on the peach farm that her abusive father owns. Rosaleen is a black woman hired by Lily’s father to be a stand in mother for Lilly. Rosaleen insults some of the biggest racists in their town. Lily and Rosaleen run away to a town Lily believes that her mother once lived in. They go to live with the three Boatwright sisters on their honey farm. She finds solace in their mesmerizing world of beekeeping. Cast: Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, Sophie Okonedo. Based on the novel by Sue Monk Kidd. Rated PG-13

Swing Vote

When twelve-year-old Molly encourages her apathetic father to get involved, she sets off a chain of events on election day that ends with the presidential race coming down to one vote–her dad’s. Cast: Kevin Costner, Paula Patton, Kelsey Grammer, Dennis Hopper, Nathan Lane, Stanley Tucci, George Lopez, Madeline Carroll. Rated PG-13

Towelhead

Follows the life of Jasira, a 13-year-old Arab-American girl, as she navigates the confusing and frightening path of adolescence and her own sexual awakening after moving to suburban Houston with her strict father. Cast: Aaron Eckhart, Toni Collette, Maria Bello, Peter Macdissi, Summer Bishil. Based on the novel by Alicia Erian. Rated R

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Vicky and Cristina are two young American women spending a summer in Spain when they meet a charming guy and his beautiful but volatile ex-wife. Soon, smoldering sparks begin to fly in hilarious fashion when they all become romantically entangled. Cast: Javier Bardem, Patricia Clarkson, Penélope Cruz, Kevin Dunn, Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson, Chris Messina. Rated PG-13

W

A look at the life of the George W. Bush. Cast: Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Banks, Ellen Burstyn, James Cromwell, Richard Dreyfuss, Scott Glenn, Toby Jones, Stacy Keach, Bruce McGill, Thandie Newton, Jeffrey Wright. Rated: PG-13

TV Series and Feature Length Films on DVD – February 2009

Avalon

The story of several generations of a family, from the arrival of immigrant Sam Krichinsky in the suburb of Baltimore called Avalon, down through his children and grandchildren. The family goes from poverty to prosperity and the world changes around them, but their love and humor hold the family together. Cast: Armin Mueller-Stahl, Elizabeth Perkins, Joan Plowright, Aidan Quinn, Leo Fuchs, Eve Gordon, Lou Jacobi, Kevin Pollak, Israel Rubinek. (1990)  Rated PG.

 

Beulah Land

This mini-series centers around the Kendrick family, owners of Beulah Land, and those connected to the plantation by history and fate. It follows Beulah Land from its height of splendor through its destruction in the Civil War and to its rebuilding. Cast: Leslie Ann Warren, Michael Sarrazin, Eddie Albert, Hope Lange, Paul Rudd. Based on the novel by Lonnie Coleman. (1980) Not rated

 

Buffalo Soldiers

A fact-based story about the all-black U.S. Cavalry Troop H, which protected the Western territories in post-Civil War times. The story focuses on the troops’ attempts to capture an Apache warrior, Vittorio, who slaughters the settlers in New Mexico. The film examines the racial tensions that existed between the black soldiers and some of the white soldiers, and the truths about the Indian invaders. Cast: Danny Glover, Bob Gunton, Carl Lumbly, Glynn Turman, Mykelti Williamson. (Made for TV 1997)  Rated G.

 

The Cheap Detective

Neil Simon wrote this tale of a worldly, cynical gumshoe who takes on San Francisco, thugs, crooks, Nazis, femme fatales and the Golden Gate Bridge in this tribute to Bogie and the Hammett/Chandler school of hard-boiled detectives. Cast: Peter Falk, Ann-Margret, Eileen Brennan, Sid Caesar, Stockard Channing, James Coco, Dom DeLuise, Abe Vigoda, Paul Williams, Nicol Williamson. (1978) Rated PG

 

Hanover Street

An American bomber pilot falls in love with a British nurse, and then must escort her husband on a mission behind enemy lines. Cast: Harrison Ford, Lesley-Anne Down, Christopher Plummer, Alec McCowen, Richard Masur, Michael Sacks. (1979) Rated PG

In His Father’s Shoes

After his father’s death a young boy is able to travel back in time wearing his father’s shoes and learns of his father’s childhood. Cast: Louis Gossett Jr., Robert Richard, Barbara Eve Harris. (1997) Rated PG

Jakob the Liar

In Nazi-occupied Poland a poor Jewish cafe owner invents fictitious news bulletins about Allied advances against the Nazis. These lies keep hope and humor alive among the ghetto inhabitants. Cast: Robin Williams, Alan Arkin, Michael Jeter, Armin Mueller0Stahl, Liev Schreiber, Bob Balaban. (2000) Rated PG-13.

 

 

Lovejoy: the Complete First Season

Lovejoy, an antiques dealer and part-time detective, scours the murky salesrooms, auction halls and stately homes of Britain, always on the lookout for a find. And if the antiques business isn’t exciting enough, Lovejoy has a particular weakness for a good sob story or a pretty face, either of which is enough to send him off in pursuit of villains and to help victims recover their property. Whether it’s a priceless old master or a pretty young lady, his love of beauty is sure to land him in trouble wherever he goes. Cast: Ian McShane, Phyllis Logan, Dudley Sutton, Chris Jury.  Note Originally broadcast on BBC television in 1986. Not Rated

 

Miss Evers’ Boys

In 1932, Nurse Eunice Evers is invited to work with doctors on the “Tuskegee Experiment” to study the effects of syphilis. She is faced with a terrible dilemma when she learns the patients are denied treatment that could cure them. Cast: Alfre Woodard, Laurence Fishburne, Craig Sheffer, Joe Morton, Obba Babatundé, E.G. Marshall, Ossie Davis. Based on the play by David Feldshuh. (1997) Rated PG

 

Mississippi Masala

In this exotic and erotic interracial love story, an African American businessman falls for a beautiful Indian immigrant, only to encounter shock and outrage from both families. Cast: Denzel Washington, Roshan Seth, Sarita Choudhury, Charles S. Dutton, Joe Seneca, Sharmila Tagore, Ranjit Chowdhry. (1991) Rated R

 

 

The Mists of Avalon

Follows the women of Avalon from their childhoods through the ultimate fulfillment of their destinies in the battle between Christianity and Paganism that threatens to bring down Arthur’s kingdom. Cast: Anjelica Huston, Julianna Margulies, Joan Allen, Samantha Mathis, Caroline Goodall, Edward Atterton, Michael Vartan, Michael Byrne, Hans Matheson. Based on the novel by Marion Zimmer Bradley.
(2001) Not Rated

 

Nightjohn

The story of a young slave girl and the man who, at great risk to each other, teaches her to read, opening up a whole new world for her. Cast: Beau Bridges, Carl Lumbly, Lorraine Toussaint, Bill Cobbs, Kathleen York, Gabriel Casseus, Tom Nowicki, Joel Thomas Traywick, Allison Jones. Based on the book by Gary Paulsen. (1996)  Rated PG-13

 

Race to Freedom

The story of four slaves who escape from a cotton plantation in the South and travel along a clandestine network of escape routes to freedom in Canada. Cast: Janet Bailey, Michael Riley, Dawnn Lewis, Ron White, Glynn Turman, Courtney B. Vance, Tim Reid. (1994)  Not Rated

 

 

Robin Hood: Season One

Robin of Locksley heads home from the Crusades to find his people starving and brutalized under the tyrannical rule of the new Sheriff. Along with trusty companion Much, trickster Allan A. Dale and passionate Will Scarlett, Robin teams up with forest outlaws Little John and Roy, leading his gang to help Nottingham’s poor. Robin’s ally in Nottingham is Marian, the sweetheart he left behind when he left for the Crusades. The state of England is rotten and Robin and the gang will learn that doing good deeds in Nottingham is a dangerous business indeed. Cast: Jonas Armstrong, Lucy Griffiths, Richard Armitage, Keith Allen, Sam Troughton, Gordon Kennedy, Harry Lloyd, Joe Armstrong, Anjali Jay, Michael Elwyn, William Beck. (2006) Not Rated

 

Robin Hood: Season Two

The world is changing rapidly. The Sheriff of Nottingham has forged a pact with the black knights to kill King Richard. But first, the sheriff wants Robin dead more than ever and sets about catching him with the help of his sister and others. Marian and Edward are placed under house arrest in the castle after Gisborne burns their home to the ground. Now with Marian as castle spy, Robin and his gang can continue to help the people of Nottingham and stay one step ahead of the sheriff and Gisborne. As events begin to turn in favor of the sheriff, suspicion of a spy within Robin’s gang becomes evident. Could this change the dynamic of the gang or tear them apart for good? Cast: Jonas Armstrong, Lucy Griffiths, Richard Armitage, Keith Allen, Sam Troughton, Gordon Kennedy, Harry Lloyd, Joe Armstrong, Anjali Jay, Michael Elwyn. Originally broadcast on BBC television in 2007. Not Rated

 

Selma Lord Selma

Set in 1965, during the turbulent early days of the right-to-vote movement. The story of a young schoolgirl in Selma, Alabama, who is inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to resist the degradation that her fellow African-Americans are suffering. Based on the book by Sheyann Webb and Rachel West Nelson. Cast: Mackenzie Astin, Jurnee Smollett, Clifton Powell. (1999) Rated TV-PG

 

Ten Days that Unexpectedly Changed America

Ten acclaimed documentary filmmakers offer a fresh, compelling look at 10 pivotal moments in American history and their often unforeseen repercussions. Episodes include: Massacre at Mystic; Shays’ Rebellion, America’s First Civil War; Gold Rush; Antietam; The Homestead Strike; Murder at the Fair, the Assassination of President McKinley; Scopes, the Battle over America’s Soul; Einstein’s Letter; When America Was Rocked; Freedom Summer. Narrators, Jeffrey Wright, Martin Sheen, Terry Kinney, Campbell Scott, Joe Morton. Originally Broadcast on The History Channel. (2006) Not Rated

 

The Trouble with Angels

Two mischievous students turn convent school upside down with their pranks. Their graduation is both a relief and a celebration for the Mother Superior. Cast: Rosalind Russell, Hayley Mills, June Harding, Binnie Barnes, Gypsy Rose Lee, Camilla Sparv, Mary Wickes, Jim Boles. (1966) Rated PG

The Tuskegee Airmen

A history of the pilots who faced discrimination in their effort to fly combat aircraft for their country during World War II. Originally broadcast on PBS in 2003.  Narrator, Ossie Davis. Not Rated

 

The Vicar of Dibley: The Immaculate Collection

The sleepy English village of Dibley is plunged into an uproar when its new vicar turns out to be a woman. And not just any woman, but the unconventional Geraldine Granger who brings her own earthy spirit and humor to the pulpit. Cast: Dawn French, Gary Waldhorn, James Fleet, Emma Chambers, Liz Smith, John Bluthal, Trevor Peacock, Roger Lloyd Pack, Richard Armitage. Originally broadcast by BBC1 1994-2000. Not Rated

 

Where Angels Go…Trouble Follows

Comedic drama centering around nuns in a convent and the conflict between the traditional, rigid values of the Roman Catholic church and the liberalism of the 1960s. Cast: Rosalind Russell, Stella Stevens, Binnie Barnes, Susan St. James, Mary Wickes, Dolores Sutton, Milton Berle, Arthur Godfrey, Van Johnson, Robert Taylor. Sequel to The trouble with Angels. (1968) Rated G

 

Words by Heart

A drama focused on the hardships endured by a black family living in the Midwest in the 20th century. With social progress still decades away, the family experiences open prejudice nearly everywhere they turn. Cast: Charlotte Rae, Robert Hooks, Alfre Woodard, Fran Robinson, Leo Geter, Rance Howard, Bobby Jacoby, Bill Zuckert. Based on the book by Ovida Sebestyen. (1988) Not Rated

TV Series, Nonfiction and Feature Length Films on DVD – January 2009

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series 4

The true-life adventures of veterinarian James Herriot in rural England. Cast: Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison, Lynda Bellingham and John McGlynn. Based on the books by James Herriot. Not Rated.

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series Six

The heart-warming tales of James Herriot, his wife Helen and his volatile but warm-hearted partner, Siegfried Farnon continues. Based on James Herriot’s popular autobiographical books. Cast: Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison, Lynda Bellingham. Not Rated

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series 7

The true-life adventures of veterinarian James Herriot in rural England. Cast: Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison, Lynda Bellingham and John McGlynn. Based on the books by James Herriot. Not Rated.

Another Country

An elderly, exiled British spy remembers his days at an English boarding school in the 1930s. In school, he fell in love with a male classmate, explored his homosexuality and was exposed to Marxist ideas, both contributing to his activities as a spy. Cast: Cary Elwes, Colin Firth, Rupert Everett. (1984) Not Rated

A Bridge too Far

A dramatization of the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, tracing the failed Operation Market Garden in which Allied soldiers struggled to disable the German forces from behind enemy lines in Holland. Cast: Dirk Bogarde, James Caan, Michael Caine, Sean Connery, Edward Fox, Elliott Gould, Gene Hackman, Anthony Hopkins, Hardy Kruger, Laurence Olivier, Ryan O’Neal, Robert Redford, Maximilian Schell, Liv Ullmann. Based on the book by Cornelius Ryan. (1977) Rated PG

Champagne Charlie

Founder of the greatest Champagne dynasties of the world, Charles Heidsieck falls in love with Southern belle Pauline. Cast: Hugh Grant, Megan Gallagher, Megan Follows. Based on the book by Joseph Henriot. (1989) Not Rated

The Decades Collection 1900 -1909

The dawn of the 20th century brought with it stunning new technology–technology that would change the world–and public personalities that were larger than life. Relive the heady days at the birth of the modern age, and discover its more sobering moments, with this exceptional compilation of documentaries. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Murder at the Fair: the Assassination of President McKinley : September 6, 1901 (10 Days that Unexpectedly Changed America) ; The Panama Canal (Modern Marvels) ; Theodore Roosevelt: Roughrider to Rushmore (Biography) ; The Technology of Kitty Hawk (Modern Marvels) — Disc 2: San Francisco Earthquake (Mega Disasters) — The Model T (Automobiles)

The Decades Collection 1910 – 1919

In the teens, a nation still recovering from its own growing pains was thrust onto the world stage and began its rise to the status of superpower. In this collection you’ll discover the genesis of World War I and the reality of life in the trenches; walk the decks of the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic; witness the demise of a 300-year dynasty; and experience much more of this formative decade. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: WWI: the Death of Glory ; World War I (Foot Soldier); Secrets of the Romanovs (Ancient Mysteries) — Disc 2: Titanic: 90 Years Below; Albert Einstein (Biography) ; Vladimir Ilyich Lenin: Voice of the Revolution (Biography) ; Titanic Tech (Modern Marvels)

The Decades Collection 1920 – 1929

Following a decade of worldwide terror and deprivation, the Roaring Twenties were a swinging time of flappers, bathtub gin and high spirits. It was an exhilarating period when we could achieve anything, from flying across oceans, to discovering the mysteries of the past, to unlocking the secrets of life itself. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Rumrunners, Moonshiners, and Bootleggers; Ku Klux Klan: a Secret History — Disc 2: Charles Lindbergh: against the Wind (Biography) ; Howard Carter: Triumph and Treasure (Biography) ; The Monkey Trial (In Search of History) ; F. Scott Fitzgerald: the Great American Dreamer (Biography).

The Decades Collection 1930 – 1939

Today we are still feeling the effects of the Great Depression and Prohibition. The 30s, with its gangsters and work projects, breadlines and escapist pursuits (superhero comics, color movies, thoroughbred racing) was a formative period for our country. With mounting global tensions and domestic despair, the roar of the 20s faded quickly. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: The Great Depression: Part 1: The Great Shake-up ; Part 2: Face the Music ; Part 3: Striking Back ; Part 4: Desperate Measures — Disc 2: The True Story of Seabiscuit ; The Empire State Building (Modern Marvels) ; Al Capone: Scarface (Biography) ; Love & Death: the Story of Bonnie and Clyde (Biography).

The Decades Collection 1940 -1949

The forties dawned with Nazi forces in Poland. It was clear from the beginning that trouble lay ahead. This sweeping DVD presentation captures the figures that steered the globe through these turbulent waters, including Churchill, Roosevelt, Gandhi, Hirohito and others. It also offers matchless documentaries of the landmark moments of American involvement in WWII: Pear Harbor and D-Day. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Pacific: the Lost Evidence: Pearl Harbor; D-Day: the Lost Evidence; Churchill and the President (History Undercover) — Disc 2: Hirohito (Biography) ; Tokyo Rose: Victim of Propaganda (Biography) ; Evita: the Woman behind the Myth (Biography) ; Mahatma Ghandi: Pilgrim of Peace (Biography).

The Decades Collection 1950 – 1959

It was the age of hip-swingers, jet-fighters, and Ike-likers. It saw the end of the scourge of polio and the dawn of the scourge of McCarthyism. Much of what we nostalgically revere – the foundations of our pop culture – arose in the fifties. This DVD collection explores the boom-time of the post-war decade when the sky was the limit and the Cold War chilled the planet. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Korea: the Forgotten War (Parts 1 & 2) ; The Search for the Polio Vaccine (Modern Marvels) ; Eisenhower: Supreme Commander in Chief (Biography) — Disc 2: When America Was Rocked: September 9, 1956 (10 Days that Unexpectedly Changed America) ; McCarthy Reconsidered (20th Century) ; Elizabeth: the Reluctant Monarch (Biography) ; The Hollywood Censorship Wars (Time Machine).

The Decades Collection 1960 – 1969

Depending on whom you ask, the sixties was all about love, civil rights, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, decadence, repression, or something else completely. It was many things to many people, and was, unquestionably, a turning point in our national experience. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Voices of Civil Rights (Save Our History) ; The JFK Assassination (Investigating History) ; Martin Luther King Jr: The Man and the Dream (Biography) ; Malcolm X (Biography) — Disc 2: October Fury (History Undercover) ; Apollo 11 (Modern Marvels) ; Bay of Pigs Declassified (History Undercover) ; Getting High: a History of LSD (History’s Mysteries).

The Decades Collection 1970 – 1979

Just outside the mesmerizing glint of the disco ball, the Seventies seem like a time of madness: war raged in Southeast Asia, America’s president was crooked, Olympic athletes were slain, cult members drank poisoned punch, and the Son of Sam stalked the night. It was, in retrospect, a terrifying time only slightly ameliorated by the distractions of a decadent nightlife culture and over-the-top pop icons. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Vietnam: a Soldier’s Diary (20th Century with Mike Wallace) ; Richard Nixon: Man and President (Biography) ; Revenge! (History Undercover) — Disc 2: David Berkowitz: Son of Sam (Biography) ; Ayatollah Khomeini: Holy Terror (Biography) ; Bruce Lee: the Immortal Dragon (Biography) ; Jim Jones: Journey into Madness (Biography).

The Decades Collection 1980 – 1989

The decade that gave us the “yuppie” was all about big business, big government and big changes. The balance in global dominance shifted as the superpowers – China, the USSR, the U.S., and England – realigned and either asserted themselves or faded away. Our world changed forever during these fateful ten years, and this captivating two-disc set clarifies the major events – and major players – that shaped our globe. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: The Iran-Contra Scandal (20th Century with Mike Wallace) ; Democracy Crushed: Tiananmen Square (20th century) ; Ronald Reagan: a Legacy Remembered — Disc 2: The Rise and Fall of the Wall (Declassified) ; The John Lennon Assassination (American Justice) ; Mikhail Gorbachev: a Man Who Changed the World — The Falklands Campaign (Greatest Raids).

The Decades Collection 1990 -1999

Still perfectly clear in the rear view mirror, the nineties loom in our collective memory. This revealing DVD collection remembers events eerily similar to our current situation: a war in Iraq, domestic terrorism, and deadly school shootings. The set also covers the touchstone trials of the decade, if not the century: O.J. Simpson and Bill Clinton. All segments previously aired as episodes of various programs on The History Channel. Contents Disc 1: Conspiracy: Oklahoma City Bombing; Columbine: Understanding Why (Investigative Reports) ; Attack at Waco (American Justice) ; 1993 World Trade Center Bombing (Minute by Minute) — Disc 2: Trial of O.J. Simpson: Anatomy of a Murder (20th Century) ; Desert Storm: the Ultimate War; The Impeachment of William Jefferson Clinton (20th Century).

Gattaca

In a society ruled by a genetically elite overclass, Vincent is an “In-Valid,” who assumes the identity of an elite in order to travel into space with the Gattaca Aerospace Corporation. A week before his mission, he is implicated in a murder and his cover slowly unravels under the scrutiny of an investigator and the woman he loves. Cast: Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Alan Arkin, Jude Law, Loren Dean, Gore Vidal, Ernest Borgnine, Blair Underwood, Xander Berkley, Tony Shalhoub, Jayne Brook. (1997) Rated PG-13

A Gentleman’s Game

At twelve-years-old, Timmy shows the early promise of a champion in the making. When his father sends him to caddy at a local country club, he finds a world where privilege meets the working class. With the help of a golf teacher with a broken past, he learns more than just technique and sportsmanship. Cast: Mason Gamble, Dylan Baker, Philip Baker Hall, Gary Sinise, Justin Goncalves, Henry Simmons II, Linda Emond, David Zayas, Ellen Muth. Based on the novel by Tom Coyne. (2001) Rated R

Good Neighbors

A couple decides to live off the land of their suburban London home to the annoyance of their neighbors. Cast: Richard Briers, Felicity Kendal, Paul Eddington, and Penelope Keith. Originally broadcast on BBC-TV in 1975-1977. Not rated.

The Lords of Flatbush

A group of kids in 1950s Brooklyn form a gang and do everything together. While this makes things easier, they eventually have to face new problems. Cast: Perry King, Sylvester Stallone, Paul Mace, Henry Winkler, Susan Blakely, Renée Paris, Maria Smith. (1974) Rated PG

The Mary Tyler Moore Show: The Complete Fourth Season

Join Mary and the rest of the crew from the WJM-TV newsroom for another season of the classic sitcom. This time around Mary deals with more adventures, both in the newsroom and with her romantic life. Cast: Mary Tyler Moore, Edward Asner, Valerie Harper, Gavin MacLeod, Ted Knight, Betty White, Cloris Leachman. Originally broadcast on television in 1973-1974.

Onegin

After inheriting his uncle’s country estate, playboy Evgeny Onegin travels there and meets a beautiful, passionate young girl, Tatyana. But their relationship sparks a series of events so horrifying they threaten to destroy everything the two have ever known. Based on the novel by Alexander Pushkin. Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Liv Tyler. (1998) Rated R

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Neal Page (Steve Martin) wants to fly home to spend Thanksgiving with his family. Del Griffith (John Candy) leads Page on a hilarious, cross-country, wild goose chase that keeps him from tasting his turkey. (1987) Rated R

Possession

A pair of literary sleuths unearth the amorous secret of two Victorian poets only to find themselves falling under a passionate spell. Cast: Gwyneth Paltrow, Aaron Eckhart, Jeremy Northam, Jennifer Ehle, Lena Headey, Toby Stephens. Based on the novel by A.S. Byatt. (2002) Rated PG-13

The Presidents

This History Channel documentary is an eight-part survey of the personal lives and legacies of the remarkable men who have presided over the Oval Office. From George Washington to George W. Bush, series gathers together vivid snapshots of all 43 Commanders in Chief who have guided America throughout its history–their powerful personalities, weaknesses, and major achievements or historical insignificance. Based on the book To the Best of My Ability, edited by James McPherson. The set features rare and unseen photographs and footage, unexpected insight and trivia from journalists, scholars, and politicians such as Walter Cronkite, David Brinkley, Wesley Clark, Bob Dole, and former President Jimmy Carter. Narrated by Edward Herrmann. Includes a feature-length Bonus Program “All The Presidents’ Wives”. Not Rated

The Prince of Tides

A disillusioned Southern coach reveals his tortured childhood in order to help his troubled, suicidal sister, and discovers the healing powers of love and forgiveness. Cast: Barbra Streisand, Nick Nolte, Blythe Danner, Kate Nelligan, Jeroen Krabbé, Melinda Dillon, Jason Gould. Based on the book by Pat Conroy. (1991) Rated R

Sally Hemings: an American Scandal

The story of the mulatto woman who had an affair with President Thomas Jefferson for nearly 40 years. Cast: Sam Neill, Carmen Ejogo, Mario Van Peebles, Mare Winningham, Diahann Carroll. (2000) Not Rated

The Tudors: Season 2

After failing to have his marriage to Katherine annulled, Henry appoints himself the head of the Church of England. Anne Boleyn insists that Henry remove the Queen from the picture. A royal visit to France finally prompts Anne to consummate her relationship with Henry. After failed attempts to have his marriage annulled, Henry’s patience finally wears out and he marries Anne in secret. The king and new queen are disappointed that their first child is a girl, whom they christen Elizabeth. Cast: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, Natalie Dormer, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Nick Dunning, James Frain, Jamie Thomas King, Hans Matheson, Peter O’Toole, Jeremy Northam. Showtime Production. Not Rated

New DVD Releases – January 2009

Angels in the Dust

The inspiring story of Marion Cloete, a university-trained therapist who— with her husband and three daughters— fearlessly walked away from a privileged life in a wealthy Johannesburg suburb to build Botshabelo, an extraordinary village and school that provides shelter, food, and education to more than 550 South African children. Not Rated

Burn After Reading

When a disc filled with some of the CIA’s most irrelevant secrets gets in the hands of two determined, but not very bright, gym employees, the duo are intent on exploiting their find. Events soon spiral out of everyone’s and anyone’s control, resulting in a non-stop series of hilarious encounters! Cast: George Clooney, Frances McDormand, John Malkovich, Tilda Swinton, Brad Pitt. Rated R

The Duchess

The compelling true story of a lavish world filled with smoldering passion, heartbreaking deception and stifling demands. Beloved by a nation but betrayed by her husband, vivacious and heroic Georgiana Spencer, the Duchess of Devonshire and “Empress of Fashion”, faced an agonizing choice between responsibility and love. Cast:Keira Knightley, Ralph Fiennes, Charlotte Rampling, Dominic Cooper, Hayley Atwell. Based on the book Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire by Amanda Foreman. Rated PG-13

The House Bunny

When Playboy Bunny Shelly is tossed out of the Playboy Mansion, she has nowhere to go. When she stumbles into a sorry sorority, she finds a place where she can finally put her skills to good use. Cast: Anna Faris, Colin Hanks, Emma Stone. Rated PG-13

My Tale of Two Cities

“My Tale of Two Cities” is a feel-good “comeback” story starring the city of Pittsburgh and some of the it’s favorite neighbors including Franco Harris, Teresa Heinz Kerry, the late Mayor Bob O’ Connor, former Treasury Secretary Paul O’ Neill, Mrs. Joanne Rogers, “Mr. McFeely” of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood”, and many others.

The Women

Set in Manhattan, the story starts with beautiful, intelligent Mary Haines discovering her husband is cheating on her. Needing their support, Mary’s girlfriends all rally around her with advice, cocktails, and shopping. Cast: Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, Eva Mendes, Debra Messing, Jada Pinkett Smith, Carrie Fisher, Cloris Leachman, Debi Mazar, Bette Midler, Candice Bergen. Based on the play by Clare Boothe Luce and the 1939 motion picture screenplay by Anita Loos and Jane Murfin. Rated PG-13

New DVDs: TV Series and Feature Length Films – December 2008

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series One

In the mid-1930s, young James Herriot, fresh from veterinary school, arrives in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales to begin his career. Cast: Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison, Carol Drinkwater. Based on the books by James Herriot. Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1978.  Not Rated

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series Five

The BBC TV series continues with more of  the heart-warming tales of James Herriot, a country vet , his wife Helen  and his volatile but warm-hearted partner, Siegfried Farnon . The period is now the early Fifties, but the Dales are slow to embrace the world of tomorrow. Tristan has left the Ministry of Agriculture to return to the Darrowby practice. Even with Calum  on the team, the vets see little of the leisure that the modern age promises. Based on James Herriot’s popular autobiographical books. Cast: Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison, Lynda Bellingham.  Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1988. Not Rated

Black  Adder: The Complete Collector’s Set

One of the best comedy series ever to emerge from England, Black Adder traces the deeply cynical and self-serving lineage of various Edmund Blackadders from the muck of the Middle Ages to the frontline of World War I. British comic actor Rowan Atkinson played all five versions of Edmund, beginning with the villainous and cowardly Duke of Edinburgh, whose scheming mind and awful haircut seem to stand him in good stead to become the next Archbishop of Canterbury–a deadly occupation if ever there was one. Among tales of royal dethronings, Black Death, witch smellers (who root out spell makers with their noses), and ghosts, Edmund is a perennial survivor who never quite gets ahead in multiple episodes. Cast: Rowan Atkinson, Tony Robinson, Tim McInnerny, Miranda Richardson, Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Patsy Byrne. Originally broadcast by BBC1 in 1983-1989.  Not Rated

Charlotte Gray

A 25-year-old Scottish woman cooperates with the French Resistance in hopes of rescuing her lover, a missing Royal Air Force pilot.  Cast: Cate Blanchett, Billy Crudup, Michael Gambon, Rupert Penry Jones, Anton Lesser, James Fleet, Ron Cook. Based on the book by Sebastian Faulks.(2001) Rated PG-13.

First Knight

Sir Malagant declares war on King Arthur in hopes of gaining part of Camelot. In the meantime, Arthur’s young bride, Guenivere, has fallen in love with Lancelot, one of Arthur’s loyal knights. Cast: Sean Connery, Richard Gere, Julia Ormond, Ben Cross, Liam Cunningham, Christopher Villiers, Valentine Pelka, Colin McCormack, Ralph Ineson, John Gielgud. (1995)  Rated PG-13

The Gift

Annie has ‘the Gift’. Some fear her, others claim she’s a witch. But now, a murder has been committed and only she can solve it. On a twisted trail of open infidelity and jealous rage, she sees visions that will haunt her and discovers a truth that will tear the town apart. Cast: Cate Blanchett, Giovanni Ribisi, Keanu Reeves, Katie Holmes, Michael Jeter, Kim Dickens, Gary Cole, Greg Kinnear, Hilary Swank. Rated R. (2001)

The Green Berets

A Special Forces colonel leads his troops into battle against the Viet Cong. Cast: John Wayne, David Janssen, Jim Hutton, Aldo Ray, Raymond St. Jacques, Bruce Cabot, Jack Soo, George Takei, Patrick Wayne, Luke Askew, Irene Tsu. (1968) Rated G

The Horseman on the Roof

In 1832, an Italian revolutionary living in Provence is pursued by assassins. He takes refuge in a small town ravaged by a cholera epidemic, where he meets a mysterious and beautiful noblewoman. In French with English subtitles. Cast: Juliette Binoche, Olivier Martinez, Claudio Amendola, Pierre Arditi, Isabelle Carre, Francois Cluzet.  (1995)  Rated R.

Inside the Green Berets

This National Geographic production documents the daily lives and activities of the Green Berets assigned to a remote outpost in Afghanistan. Originally broadcast on television in 2007.

Radio Flyer

After their mother marries a child abuser, Mike decides to help Bobby escape by turning their Radio Flyer wagon into a magic rocket ship that will carry Bobby to safety. Cast: Elijah Wood, Lorraine Bracco, Joseph Mazzello, Adam Baldwin, John Heard. Narrated by Tom Hanks. (1992) Rated PG-13

State of Play

Stephen Collins is an ambitious politican. Cal McCaffrey is a well-respected investigative journalist and Stephen’s ex-campaign manager. En route to work on morning, Stephen’s research assistant mysteriously falls to her death on the London Underground. Rumors soon surface of an affair between Stephen and the assistant. Meanwhile, a suspected teenage drug dealer is shot to death. Revelation upon revelation pile up in the aftermath of these two seemingly unconnected events, ultimately bringing to light shady dealings between the government and major corporate powers. Friendships are tested and lives are put on the line as an intricate web of lies unfolds. Cast: David Morrissey, John Simm, Bill Nighy, Kelly MacDonald, James McAvoy. Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 2003.  Not Rated

The Train Robbers

Three Civil War veterans team up with a train robber’s widow to recover a stash of gold. Cast: John Wayne, Ann-Margret, Rod Taylor, Ben Johnson, Christopher George, Bobby Vinton. (1972) Rated PG

Walk Away the Pounds with Leslie Sansone

Fitness Expert Leslie Sansone leads these two walking workouts: a One Mile Get Up and Get Started Walk and a Two Mile High Calorie Burn Walk.

More New DVD Releases – December 2008

Mamma Mia!

Sophie has just one wish to make her wedding day perfect –to have her father walk her down the aisle. Now she just has to find out who her father is! Cast: Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgård, Julie Walters, Dominic Cooper, Amanda Seyfried, Christine Baranski.  Based on the songs of ABBA. Rated PG-13

The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor

Alex O’Connell sets out to help combat the resurrected a Han Emperor. When Alex is tricked into awakening the ruler from eternal slumber, the reckless young archaeologist must seek the help of the only people who know more than he does about taking down the undead: his parents. This time, the O’Connells must stop a mummy that has awoken from a 2,000-year-old curse who threatens to plunge the world into his merciless, unending service. As the monarch roars back to life, the O’Connell’s find his quest for world domination has only intensified over the millennia. Cast: Brendan Fraser, Jet Li, Maria Bello, John Hannah, Michelle Yeoh, Luke Ford, Isabella Leong, Chau Sang Anthony Wong, Russell Wong. Rated PG-13

War, Inc.

Turaqistan is a country occupied by an American private corporation run by a former U.S. vice-president. In an effort to monopolize the opportunities the war-torn nation offers, the corporation’s CEO hires a troubled hit man to kill a Middle East oil minister. Now, struggling with his own growning demons, the assassin must pose as the corporation’s Trade Show producer in order to pull off his current hit. Cast: John Cusack, Joan Cusack, Marisa Tomei, Hilary Duff, Ben Kingsley, Dan Aykroyd, Ned Bellany. Rated R

New DVD Releases – December 2008

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

The four Pevensie children – Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy – return to Narnia, only to discover that hundreds of years have passed since they ruled there. Now, crowning himself king, the evil General Miraz has taken charge. The children enlist the help of a heroic mouse called Reepicheep. They set out find the exiled Prince Caspian, determined to see him rightfully named king. Cast: Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley, Anna Popplewell. Based on the book by C.S. Lewis. Rated PG

The Dark Knight

With the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman raises the stakes on his war on crime and sets out to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that plague the city streets. The partnership proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a reign of chaos unleashed by a rising criminal mastermind known to the terrified citizens of Gotham as The Joker. The Joker, whose eerie grin, laughter, and inhuman morality makes him dangerous. Batman seeks to stop the mysterious Joker at all costs. He has no method at all and seeks to see the world plunge into the fire he has yet to light. But, Batman has come to represents the symbol of hope. Cast: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Heath Ledger, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Morgan Freeman. Rated PG-13

Fred Claus

Fred Claus has lived in his little brother’s shadow for most of his life. Fred is in jail and Nicholas has to bail him out on the condition he come to the North Pole and repay his debt. Vince Vaughn, Paul Giamatti, John Michael Higgins, Miranda Richardson, John Michael Higgins, Rachel Weisz, Kathy Bates, Elizabeth Banks, Kevin Spacey. Rated PG

Hancock

Hancock is a hard-living and misunderstood superhero who has fallen out of favor with the public. When he grudgingly agrees to an extreme makeover from idealistic publicist Ray Embrey, his life and reputation rise from the ashes and all seems right again –until he meets a woman with similar powers to his and the key to his secret past. Cast: Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman, Eddie Marsan.  Rating: PG-13

The Happening

An unstoppable event threatens the world’s population by attacking the most basic human instinct of all: survival. Elliot Moore is an ordinary man who is trying to save his family from a terrifying, invisible killer. As Elliot discovers the incredible possibility of what is happening, it becomes very clear that no one is safe. Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Zooey Deschanel, John Leguizamo, Betty Buckley. Rated  R

Horton Hears a Who

One day, Horton the elephant hears a cry for help coming from a speck of dust. Even though he can’t see anyone on the speck, he decides to help it. Good thing since as it turns out, the speck of dust is home to the Whos, who live in their city of Whoville. Horton agrees to help protect the Whos and their home. Unfortunately for Horton, this gives him nothing but torment from his neighbors. They refuse to believe that anything could survive on the speck. Still, Horton stands by the motto that, “After all, a person is a person, no matter how small.” Voices: Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Carol Burnett, Will Arnett, Seth Rogen, Isla Fisher, Jonah Hill, Amy Poehler. Rated G

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Science professor Trevor Anderson’s radical theories have tarnished his reputation. While backpacking across Iceland with his nephew Sean, the two find a cave that leads them deep down into the bowels of the planet. They go on a quest to find out what has happened to Trevor’s missing brother, also a scientist. Trevor, Sean and their mountain guide discover a fantastic and dangerous lost world in the center of the earth. There, they discover a bizarre landscape filled with terrifying creatures. Cast: Brendan Fraser, Josh Hutcherson, Anita Briem. Based on the novel by Jules Verne. Rated PG

Man on Wire

A look at the high-wire walk made by Philippe Petit in 1974 between the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers in New York City, and how it is still considered one of history’s most artistic crimes. Based on the book To Reach the Clouds, by Philippe Petit. Rated PG-13

The Perfect Holiday

A single mother is raising her three children after the divorce from her rapper ex-husband. Her oldest son wants his parents to get back together. The youngest daughter would rather see her mom happy and decides to use Santa Claus to get her wish. The kids practically compete to see who will win the war of love. Cast: Morris Chestnut, Gabrielle Union, Faizon Love, Terrence Howard, Queen Latifah, Charlie Murphy, Katt Williams, Jill Marie Jones, Rachel True, Malik Hammond, Khail Bryant.Rated PG

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

Join the four best friends as they finish their first year of college and dive into a summer of excitement. Bridget journeys to Turkey on an archeological dig. Carmen plunges into the hectic, creative world of summer theater in Vermont. Lena discovers new love and old heartbreak at the Rhode Island School of Design. Tibby takes a big step in her relationship with Brian in the Big Apple. Cast: Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrera, Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel, Rachel Nichols, Rachel Ticotin, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Blythe Danner. Based on the novel by Ann Brashares. Rated PG-13

Step Brothers

Brennan and Dale are two middle-aged loafers who are forced to live together when their parents get married. When their immature antics over TV privileges and personal property take their toll on their parents’ marriage, the devious duo hatch a scheme to reunite the couple. Cast: Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Richard Jenkins, Mary Steenburgen, Adam Scott, Kathryn Hahn. Rated R

This Christmas

For the first time in years, the entire Whitfield clan has come home to spend the Christmas holiday with their mother and her boyfriend. Each has brought plenty of baggage along with them. As the lights are hung and the tree is trimmed, secrets are revealed and ties are tested, but eventually they rediscover and celebrate the wonderful gift of family. Cast: Delroy Lindo, Idris Elba, Loretta Devine, Chris Brown, Columbus Short, Regina King, Keith Robinson, Laz Alonso, Sharon Leal, Lauren London. Rated PG-13

Wall-E

Walt Disney Pictures presents a Pixar Animation Studios film. After hundreds of lonely years, a waste management robot finds a new purpose in life. With only a cockroach for a friend, he finds true love in another robot sent on a mission to Earth to see if it is safe for human life. MPAA rating: G.

Wanted

Wes is 25 years old and is a disaffected, clock-punching drone. His boss chews him out hourly, his girlfriend ignores him routinely, and his life plods on in interminable boredom and routine. Everyone knows Wes will amount to nothing – that is until he meets the sexy woman named Fox, and then everything changes. Wes’ estranged father is murdered, and the deadly Fox recruits him into The Fraternity, a secret society that trains him to avenge his father’s death, by unlocking his dormant powers. Fox teaches Wes how to develop his lightning-quick reflexes and phenomenal agility. He discovers that The Fraternity lives by an ancient, unbreakable code: to carry out the death orders given by emotionless Fate itself. Cast: James McAvoy, Morgan Freeman, Terence Stamp, Thomas Kretschmann, Angelina Jolie. Rated R

The X Files

When a group of women are mysteriously abducted, the FBI reunites agents Mulder and Scully to investigate.Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Amanda Peet, Billy Connelly, Alvin “Xzibit” Joiner. Rating: PG-13.

You Don’t Mess with the Zohan

The Zohan is the finest counterterrorist agent the Israeli army has. That is, until he fakes his death and travels to Manhattan to live his dream as a hairdresser. All goes well until his cover is blown when he’s recognized by a Palestinian cab driver. The Zohan must now fight to live a peaceful new life in New York with his new career. Cast: Adam Sandler, John Turturro, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Nick Swardson, Lainie Kazan, Rob Schneider. Rated: PG-13

New DVDs: TV Series and Feature Length Films – December 2008

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Seven

René, a French café owner during World War II, wants only to run his café and enjoy the occassional transgression with his waitresses. Now the Germans and the Resistance want him executed, his mother-in-law is missing, and he is smuggling food to a downed British airmen in a storm drain.  Cast: Gorden Kaye, Richard Marner, Carmen Silvera, Kim Hartman, Vicki Michelle, Richard Gibson, Kirsten Cooke, Guy Siner, Arthur Bostrom, Sue Hodge, Kenneth Connor.  Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1991. Not Rated

 

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Eight

Things are looking up for René Artois. The British airmen have finally escaped to England, Captain Bertorelli and his Italian troops have gone home, and the war is going badly for the Germans. Could this mean the return to a peaceful life? Cast: Gorden Kaye, Richard Marner, Carmen Silvera, Kim Hartman, Vicki Michelle, Richard Gibson, Kirsten Cooke, Guy Siner, Arthur Bostrom, Sue Hodge, Kenneth Connor.  Originally broadcast on the BBC during the 1991-1992 season.  Not Rated.

 

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Nine

The end of the war is in sight and Rene is eagerly anticipating a quick return to normalcy. Unfortunately, this is Nouvion, and normalcy will have to wait. Cast: Gorden Kaye, Ricahrd Marner, Carmen Silvera, Kim Hartman, Vicki Michelle. Originally broadcast as a BBC television series in 1992.  Not rated.

 

 

Byron

Relive the true story of one of history’s greatest romantic and tragic heroes. Byron was a figure who defined the romantic spirit of the early 19th century. In five days he rises from obscurity to superstar status, but throws it all away in a scandal.  Cast: Jonny lee Miller, Natasha Little, Vanessa Redgrave, Julie Cox, Philip Glenister. A 2005 BBC Production.  Not Rated.

 

Count Dracula

Jonathan Harker visits the Count in Transylvania to help him with preparations to move to England. It is in the Count’s castle that Jonathan becomes a prisoner, and discovers Dracula’s true nature. Cast: Louis Jourdan, Frank Finlay, Susan Penhaligon, Judi Bowker, Mark Burns, Jack Shepherd.  Based on the novel by Bram Stoker. Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1977.  Not rated.

 

Mulberry: The Complete Series

Mulberry, the cheerful Cockney son of Death and Springtime, starts his “career” as the Grim Reaper’s apprentice when he is sent to collect the acerbic and reclusive Miss Farnaby. He instead joins the staff in her creaky manor house, becomes her personal servant, and endeavors to help her enjoy life during the three month extension grudgingly granted by his dad. What will happen when winter ends and spring arrives? Will life go on?Cast: Geraldine McEwan, Karl Howman.A BBC TV Production broadcast in 1992.  Not Rated

 

Liz Lemon is the head writer of a live variety program in New York City. Liz’s life is turned upside down when brash new network executive Jack Donaghy interferes with her show, bringing the wildly unpredicatable Tracy Jordan into the cast. Now it’s up to Liz to manage the mayhem and still try to have a life. Cast: Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, Jack McBrayer, Scott Adsit, Judah Friedlander, Alec Baldwin.  Not Rated.

New Releases on DVD – November 2008

Get Smart

When the headquarters of the U.S. spy agency CONTROL is attacked and the identities of its agents are compromised, the Chief has no choice but to promote his analyst Maxwell Smart, who has dreamed of working in the field. Smart will do whatever it takes to thwart the latest plot for world domination by KAOS. Cast: Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway, Dwayne Johnson, Alan Arkin, Terence Stamp, James Caan. Rated PG-13

 

Hellboy II

The fate of mankind hangs in the balance when a ruthless prince awakens an unstoppable army of creatures to wage war with the human world. It’s up to Hellboy and his team of paranormal outcasts to face off with the forces of darkness in ultimate battle of good versus evil. Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, Jeffrey Tambor, Seth MacFarlane, John Hurt. Rated PG-13. Based on the Dark Horse comic book created by Mike Mignola.

 

Kung Fu Panda

Po works in his family’s noodle shop while dreaming the day away about becoming a Kung Fu master. His dreams soon become reality when he is unexpectedly chosen to join the world of Kung Fu and study along side his idols. Before they know it, the vengeful and treacherous snow leopard Tai Lung is headed their way. It is now up to Po to defend everyone from the oncoming threat. Voice of Po: Jack Black. Audience MPAA rating: PG; for sequences of martial arts action.

 

Tropic Thunder

When three of Hollywood’s biggest stars head into Vietnam to shoot a war movie, they find that the action becomes much more real than any of them expected. Cast:Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Steve Coogan, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, Brandon T. Jackson, Bill Hader, Nick Nolte. Rated R

More New DVDs: TV Series and Feature Length Films – November 2008

Damages

Patty Hewes, the nation’s most revered and most reviled litigator, and her ambitious protégée, Ellen Parsons, become embroiled in a class action lawsuit targeting Arthur Frobisher, one of the country’s wealthiest CEOs. As Patty battles Frobisher and his attorney, Ellen learns what it takes to win at all costs. Cast: Glenn Close, Rose Byrne, Ted Danson. Not rated.

The Dark Crystal

Jen, a Gelfling (one of the last survivors of the elfin-like race), is told of a prophecy by his master, a wise and gentle mystic. Jen sets to the task of returning the crystal shard to the all powerful Dark Crystal, making it whole again, and restoring light to the world. Voices: Jim Henson, Kathryn Mullen, Frank Oz, Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire. (1982) Rated PG.

Labyrinth

A teenage girl’s baby brother is kidnapped by the King of the Goblins; in order to rescue him she must navigate a devilish labyrinth. Cast: David Bowie, Jennifer Connelly, Toby Froud, Shelley Thompson, Christopher Malcolm, Natalie Finland, Shari Weiser, Brian Henson, Ron Mueck, Rob Mills, Dave Goelz, David Alan Barclay, David Shaughnessy. (1986) Not Rated

The Sally Lockhart Mysteries: The Shadow in the North

Sally Lockhart has started her own financial consulting business. When her client loses a fortune from the unexpected collapse of a shipping line, Sally is determined to find out why so many of their ships have mysteriously vanished without a trace. Cast: Billie Piper, Jared Harris, J.J. Feild, Matt Smith, David Harewood, Hayley Atwell, John Standing, Julian Rhind-Tutt. A Masterpiece Mystery! Production of WGBH Boston and the BBC. Hosted by Alan Cumming. Not Rated.

Sleepers

Sentenced to the Wilkinson School for boys, four pals are mistreated at will by a cadre of sadistic guards. 15 years later, they have an unexpected opportunity for revenge. Cast: Kevin Bacon, Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Patric, Brad Pitt. (1996) Rated R