New Releases on DVD – October 2010

Agora

As Christianity gains steam in Roman Egypt toward the end of the fourth century A.D., a young slave (Max Minghella) weighs his desire for freedom against his growing love for his mistress (Rachel Weisz), an atheist as well as a professor of philosophy. Alejandro Amenábar (The Others) directs this epic drama based on the life of Hypatia of Alexandria, a noted Greek scholar and mathematician. Rupert Evans co-stars. Rated R

Arn: The Knight Templar

Based on Jan Guillou’s Crusades trilogy about Swedish Knight Templar Arn Magnusson (Joakim Nätterqvist), this adventure saga follows the son of nobility from his monastic education to his return to the family to help fight for the crown of Sweden. That mission is interrupted, however, when Arn impregnates his lover and is sent to the Holy Land, where as penance he must become a warrior for Christ in the battles of the Crusades. Rated R

Babies

Documentary filmmaker Thomas Balmes charts the simultaneous early development of four babies from different parts of the world, illustrating what makes human life unique, similar and precious wherever it occurs. Training his camera on newborns Hattie from San Francisco, Ponijao from Namibia, Bayarjargal from Mongolia and Mari from Tokyo, Balmes captures everything from first screaming breaths to first steps. Rated PG

The Back-up Plan

When Zoe (Jennifer Lopez) tires of looking for Mr. Right, she decides to have a baby on her own. But on the day she’s artificially inseminated, she meets Stan (Alex O’Loughlin), who seems to be just who she’s been searching for all her life. Now, Zoe has to figure out how to make her two life’s dreams fit with each other. Alan Poul directs this hilarious, heartfelt tale of confusion, confession and romantic slapstick. Rated PG-13

City Island

When he recognizes his son, Tony (Steven Strait), whom he hasn’t seen in more than 20 years, among a crop of new inmates in the jail where he works, Vince Rizzo (Andy Garcia) decides to bring the troubled young man home with him, much to the surprise of his wife and kids. Writer-director Raymond De Felitta helms by this offbeat comedy that also stars Julianna Margulies, Emily Mortimer, Dominik Garcia-Lorido and Alan Arkin. Rated PG-13

The City of Your Final Destination

After duping school officials into awarding him a grant to write a biography on novelist Jules Gund, grad student Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally) must travel to Uruguay to get legitimate authorization from the late author’s three executors. James Ivory (A Room with a View) directs this moving adaptation of author Peter Cameron’s novel of the same name. Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and Charlotte Gainsbourg also star. Rated PG-13

Furry Vengeance

When real estate developer Dan Sanders (Brendan Fraser) finalizes plans to level a swath of pristine Oregon forest to make way for a soulless housing subdivision, a band of woodland creatures rises up to throw a monkey wrench into the greedy scheme. Just how much mischief from the furry critters can the businessman take before he calls it quits? Roger Kumble directs this family-friendly, madcap comedy. Rated PG

Get Him to the Greek

Ambitious young record company intern Aaron Green (Jonah Hill) will let nothing get in the way of his planned rise to the top in the music business — not even the unruly rock star (Russell Brand) he must escort to Los Angeles for the start of his anniversary concert. Doing whatever it takes to get the rocker from Point A to Point B, Aaron encounters all manners of mishaps in this comedy directed by Nicholas Stoller and produced by Judd Apatow. Rated R

Good

Professor John Halder (Viggo Mortensen) has a lot on his plate — a neurotic wife, two small children and a mother suffering from dementia — in this drama set in World War II Germany. But his life changes after he writes a book promoting compassionate euthanasia. When the Nazi party embraces his ideas, Halder faces a series of subtle ethical choices that gradually compromise his morality and his relationships. Rated R

Harry Brown

When a crew of drug-dealing gang members takes the life of his only friend, Leonard (David Bradley), retired Marine and widower Harry Brown (Michael Caine) decides to take the law into his own hands — but his old-school training might be overmatched. Helmed by first-time feature director Daniel Barber, this gritty vigilante thriller set in England also stars Emily Mortimer, Iain Glen, Jack O’Connell, Ben Drew, Joseph Gilgun and Liam Cunningham. Rated R

Iron Man 2

Wealthy inventor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) — aka Iron Man — resists calls by the American government to hand over his technology. Meanwhile, Ivan Vanko (Mickey Rourke) has constructed his own miniaturized arc reactor, causing all kinds of problems for our superhero. Sam Rockwell, Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johansson, Don Cheadle and Samuel L. Jackson co-star in director Jon Favreau’s sequel based on Marvel comic book characters. Rated PG-13

Jackie Chan: Kung Fu Master

Kung fu master Jackie Chan stars as himself in this feel-good story about a 15-year-old Chinese martial arts student (Yishan Zhang) who seeks out the world-famous movie star for fighting lessons. But tracking down Chan proves to be the challenge of a lifetime. In the process of looking for Jackie, he finds far more shenanigans than he expected! This comic actioner also includes cameos from Bing Bai, Jing-wei Tu and Di Yao. Rated PG

Jonah Hex

Enlisted by a Union soldier (Will Arnett), scarred bounty hunter Jonah Hex (Josh Brolin) scours the Wild West in pursuit of Turnbull (John Malkovich), a crazed voodoo master with a scheme to assemble a devastating weapon that will destroy the government and lift the Confederacy. Based on the cult DC Comics hero, this action Western co-stars Michael Shannon as strange circus impresario Doc Cross Williams and Megan Fox as beautiful gunslinger Lilah. Rated PG-13

Just Wright

Good-hearted physical therapist Leslie Wright (Queen Latifah) is looking for romance but keeps finding duds until she meets professional basketball player Scott McKnight (Common). When Scott suffers a major injury, it’s up to Leslie to save his career. Leslie and Scott become close as they work together, but Leslie’s beautiful, gold-digging childhood chum — who is also Scott’s estranged girlfriend — threatens their relationship. Rated PG

The Karate Kid

After moving to Beijing with his mother, Dre (Jaden Smith) falls prey to a bully, so he takes lessons from martial arts master Mr. Han (Jackie Chan) in this remake of The Karate Kid. While Mr. Han teaches Dre to defend himself, he also imparts some important life lessons. Meanwhile, Dre struggles with the unfamiliar language and cultural barriers he encounters in his new country. Taraji P. Henson co-stars. Rated PG

The Killer Inside Me

West Texas Deputy Sheriff Lou Ford (Casey Affleck) is harboring a deep dark secret — while the small town’s residents think him a bit dim, Lou is actually affected by a “sickness” that turns the mild-mannered peace officer into a brutal, psychotic killer. Set in the 1950s, Michael Winterbottom’s adaptation of Jim Thompson’s classic noir novel co-stars Kate Hudson as Lou’s innocent girlfriend and Jessica Alba as Joyce, a local prostitute. Rated R

Killers

When an elite assassin (Ashton Kutcher) marries a beautiful computer whiz (Katherine Heigl) after a whirlwind romance, he gives up the gun and settles down with his new bride. That is, until he learns that someone from his past has put a contract out on his life. Now, the couple must go on the run if they hope to survive and settle the score once and for all. This action comedy from director Robert Luketic co-stars Tom Selleck and Catherine O’Hara. Rated PG-13

Letters to God

Faith and hope are the twin engines that power this uplifting, bittersweet tale based on the true story of Tyler Doherty (Tanner Maguire), an 8-year-old boy who battles brain cancer and turns to God as his own private pen pal. Tyler writes and mails his missives daily, and his steadfast undertaking not only moves his family and friends, but it also alters the life of despairing postman, Brady (Jeffrey Johnson), who opens the boy’s letters. Rated PG

Letters to Juliet

By responding to a letter addressed to Shakespeare’s tragic heroine Juliet Capulet, a young American woman (Amanda Seyfried) vacationing in Verona, Italy, sets in motion a series of events that leads her — and the missive’s lovelorn author (Vanessa Redgrave) — in search of romance. Directed by Gary Winick, this deeply tender and uplifting drama also features Gael García Bernal and Franco Nero. Rated PG

MacGruber

Based on the “Saturday Night Live” sketch, this action-packed comedy stars Will Forte as incompetent former special ops agent MacGruber. When he’s called back into action to deactivate archenemy Dieter Von Cunth (Val Kilmer), MacGruber is on the case. Now, he must thwart Von Cunth’s plans to destroy Washington, D.C., with a nuclear warhead. Kristen Wiig, Ryan Phillippe, Maya Rudolph and Powers Boothe co-star. Rated R

The Mother

A murder rocks a South Korean town and suspicion quickly falls on a reclusive, mentally challenged — and alibi-free — young man (Bin Won). When an inept public defender botches the boy’s case, his mother (Hye-ja Kim) sets out to prove her son’s innocence. Acclaimed director Joon-ho Bong (Memories of Murder) explores the lengths a mother will go to protect her child in this atmospheric crime thriller. Korean dialogue, English subtitles. Rated R

Ondine

An Irish fisherman (Colin Farrell) hauls in an unexpected catch when a mysterious girl (Alicja Bachleda) gets tangled in his nets and soon affects the lives of everyone around her in this fantastical seaside tale from director Neil Jordan (Interview with the Vampire). Is it possible this beautiful stranger is a mythical sea nymph who’s been summoned from the ocean’s depths … or is she something far more common? Rated PG-13

Prince of Persia

Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Prince Dastan, who pairs with spunky Princess Tamina (Gemma Arterton) to keep the Sands of Time — a mystical dagger that gives its holder control over the flow of time — from falling into the wrong hands and putting the world in peril. Mike Newell directs this sweeping live-action adventure based on the popular video game series, co-starring Ben Kingsley and Alfred Molina. Rated PG-13

Robin Hood

Russell Crowe stars as Robin Longstride in director Ridley Scott’s big-budget twist on the celebrated legend. When soldier Robin happens upon the dying Robert of Loxley, he promises to return the man’s sword to his family in Nottingham. There, he assumes Robert’s identity; romances his widow, Marion (Cate Blanchett); and draws the ire of the town’s sheriff (Matthew Macfadyen) and King John’s henchman, Godfrey (Mark Strong). Rated PG-13

Sex and the City 2

Set two years after the wedding that almost wasn’t, this sequel finds gal pals Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Charlotte (Kristin Davis), Samantha (Kim Cattrall) and Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) embarking on a much-needed vacation to exotic Abu Dhabi. They’re still the same soul mates despite responsibilities of motherhood and marriage, but a new romance for Samantha and a little thing called Aidan, Carrie’s ex, keep things interesting. Rated R

Small Town Saturday Night

One decision ripples across the lives of his neighbors when aspiring country singer Rhett (Chris Pine) must choose between pursuing a career in Nashville and remaining in his small hometown to be with his sweetheart, Samantha (Bre Blair). Meanwhile, local cop Tommy (Shawn Christian) keeps tabs on troublemaker Donny (John Hawkes) as all their lives intertwine in unexpected and irrevocable ways. Ryan Craig directs this ensemble drama. Rated R

Solitary Man

Michael Douglas stars as a former car dealership owner who sees his personal and professional lives take a nosedive when the repercussions of years of shady business dealings and chronic womanizing finally catch up with him. Susan Sarandon, Mary-Louise Parker, Danny DeVito and Jenna Fischer co-star in this comedic drama written and co-directed by Brian Koppelman. Rated R

That Evening Sun

Frustrated with being confined to a nursing facility, Abner Meecham (Hal Holbrook) breaks out and walks all the way back to his farm. When he realizes his biggest enemy (Ray McKinnon) now lives in his house, Abner devises a plan to reclaim what rightfully belongs to him. Based on William Gay’s short story, this Southern drama co-stars Walton Goggins as Abner’s son, Paul, and Holbrook’s real-life wife, Dixie Carter, as Abner’s spouse, Ellen. Rated PG-13

Why Did I Get Married Too?

An annual Caribbean retreat turns into a week of life-altering revelations when four couples bust their relationships wide open in filmmaker Tyler Perry’s take on modern love, devotion, unfaithfulness and forgiveness. Angela (Tasha Smith) can’t trust sportscaster Marcus (Michael Jai White) anymore, Sheila’s (Jill Scott) ex (Richard T. Jones) toys with her new marriage and more. Janet Jackson, Malik Yoba, Lamman Rucker and Sharon Leal also star. Rated PG-13

Winter’s Bone

In this noir drama set deep in Ozark territory, resilient teenager Ree Dolly (Jennifer Lawrence) goes on the trail of her missing drug-dealing father when his absence jeopardizes the safety of their family. The deadbeat dad has a critical court date pending, and Ree is determined that he make it — despite the objections of the insular Dolly clan. Director Debra Granik’s unflinching drama won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance. Rated R

New DVDs: TV Series, Nonfiction and Feature Length Films – August and September 2010

The Agatha Christie Hour: Set 1

Tales of romance and danger in the glittering 1920s and ’30s.  In these stories, lesser-known Christie heroes and heroines solve crimes of the heart as well as puzzling cases of larceny and murder. With just the right mix of danger and deception, romance and revenge, innocence and intrigue, these classic adaptations are Christie at her best, now on DVD for the first time. Not Rated

All About Eve

Writer-director Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s story about New York City theater life, with Bette Davis playing an aging Broadway diva who employs a starstruck fan (Anne Baxter) as her assistant, only to learn the woman is a conniving upstart. The classic film won Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director (Mankiewicz), Best Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor (George Sanders). (1950) Not Rated

Le Amiche

A female fashion designer (Eleonora Rossi Drago) who’s looking for a change of pace trades her apartment in Rome for a hotel in northern Italy, where she starts a new life as an employee in a Turin boutique. But will her fresh start be tainted by tragedy? Michelangelo Antonioni directs this classic melodrama based on an article by Cesare Pavese about the changing roles of Italian women. Italian dialogue, English subtitles. (1955) Not Rated

Botswana: In the Footsteps of the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency with Alexander McCall Smith

Join the author as he travels to the heart of Botswana, inspiration and location for his mystery series.

Breaking Bad: The Complete First Season

Diagnosed with cancer and given only two years left to live, high school chemistry teacher Walter (Bryan Cranston) attempts to secure his family’s financial future by teaming up with his former student, Jesse (Aaron Paul), to produce and distribute the illegal drug meth. As Walter slowly builds his empire, his wife, Skyler (Anna Gunn), grows suspicious of his erratic behavior, and the DEA starts searching for the area’s new drug kingpin. Not Rated

Breaking Bad: The Complete Second Season

Chemistry teacher-turned-meth dealer Walter White (Bryan Cranston) and his partner, Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), climb higher in the drug game, which draws dangerous attention from competing cartels and imperils Walter’s DEA brother-in-law, Hank (Dean Norris). The sophomore season of this addictive drama also welcomes Bob Odenkirk to the cast as the unexpectedly sharp consigliere Saul Goodman. Not Rated

Brothers and Sisters: The Complete Third Season

Tireless matriarch Nora Walker (Sally Field) leads her affluent progeny through more triumphs, tragedies and surprises in this classy ABC soap opera. A whole new round of professional and personal dramas unfold for Justin (Dave Annable), Kitty (Calista Flockhart), Tommy (Balthazar Getty), Sarah (Rachel Griffiths), Julia (Sarah Jane Morris), Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) and Saul (Ron Rifkin). Not Rated

The Closer: The Complete Fourth Season

The Closer: The Complete Fifth Season

Georgia detective Brenda Johnson (Kyra Sedgwick) transfers to the Los Angeles Police Department to head up the Major Crimes Division, where her Southern charm and well-honed interrogation skills help her elicit confessions from even the toughest criminals.

The Crucifer of Blood

Adapted from the Arthur Conan Doyle story The Sign of the Four. It depicts the character Irene St. Claire (Susannah Harker) hiring the detective Sherlock Holmes (Charleton Heston) to investigate the travails that her father and his three compatriots suffered over a pact made over a cursed treasure chest in colonial India during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. (1991) Not Rated

Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Seventh Season

The popular HBO sitcom returns for another round of neurotic fun in Season 7. Co-starring Jeff Garlin as Larry’s long-suffering friend and manager Jeff, the series follows the fictionalized adventures of the Seinfeld co-creator, who manages to screw up absolutely every situation he encounters. Rated TV-MA

Dexter: The Fourth Season

Miami forensics specialist Dexter Morgan (Golden Globe winner Michael C. Hall) has been so successful at keeping his secret life as a serial killer under wraps that no one — not even his newly minted wife, Rita (Julie Benz) — knows about his extracurricular activities. Dexter continues to count on the fact that nobody suspects him of murder. And then he commits it with reckless abandon. John Lithgow joins the fourth season in a Golden Globe-winning role. Not Rated

Doc Martin: Series Four

Harried and uncouth as ever, Dr. Martin Ellingham (Martin Clunes) continues to practice his personal brand of medicine on the eccentric residents of Portwenn, England, in Season 4 of the popular BBC comedy-drama series. After breaking his engagement to the village headmistress (Caroline Catz), the doctor hopes to trade the countryside for London, but multiple obstacles stand in his way — including some dire news from his ex-fiancée. Not Rated

Entourage: The Complete Fourth Season

Having fired his hard-charging agent (Jeremy Piven), it’s anyone’s guess what career choices up-and-coming actor Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier) will make on the advice of his three buddies in the fourth season of this popular HBO comedy. Surrounded by his posse — Eric (Kevin Connolly), Turtle (Jerry Ferrara) and half-brother Johnny (Kevin Dillon) — Vince continues to navigate the shark-infested waters of Tinseltown. (2007)

Entourage: The Complete Fifth Season

HBO’s hit comedy is back for a fifth season, with movie star Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier) steering his considerable posse through Tinseltown — a group that includes his brother, his friends from back home, his representatives and a cadre of beautiful women. (2008)

Entourage: The Complete Sixth Season

After a disastrous year capped off by the Smoke Jumpers debacle, Vince (Adrian Grenier) is poised to make a comeback — beginning with a starring role in Martin Scorsese’s next picture. Meanwhile, Turtle (Jerry Ferrara) might finally be getting lucky in love. Kevin Connolly, Kevin Dillon and Jeremy Piven co-star in the sixth season of this Golden Globe-winning comedy series about the unpredictability of the entertainment industry.

Everwood: The Complete Third Season

This season, love is in the clear mountain air of Everwood. Back from a troubled summer at Juilliard, Ephram commits himself to his music and to Amy. Andy wanted Everwood to be his family’s home. Now it may be just another place they used to live.(2004)

Gentleman’s Agreement

Enterprising reporter Phil Green (Gregory Peck), eager to blow the lid off anti-Semitism, accepts an assignment to pen a series of frank exposés for a progressive magazine. Looking for a new angle, Green poses as a Jew and soon endures the full spectrum of bigotry — from being denied a job and use of public facilities to his son suffering a beating. Little by little, the journalist comes to understand the cruel effects of prejudice. (1947)

George Gently: Series One

George Gently: Series Two

After the hit-and-run murder of his wife, London police officer George (Martin Shaw) moves to England’s North Country to find the killer. Feared by criminals and corrupt cops, George works closely with his partner, John (Lee Ingleby), to stop lawbreakers of all types. Set in 1960s Britain, this drama is based on Alan Hunter’s novels and features guest stars such as Richard Armitage, Phillip Davis and John Kavanagh.

Georgia O’Keeffe

Joan Allen stars as 20th-century painter Georgia O’Keeffe in this Golden Globe-nominated biopic that follows the artist’s tempestuous relationship with her lover and eventual husband, Alfred Steiglitz (Jeremy Irons), a New York photographer and art promoter. Though their marriage weathers long absences and extramarital affairs, O’Keeffe prefers solitude in New Mexico, where she creates her greatest work. Bob Balaban directs. Not Rated

Jesse Stone: Death in Paradise

Emmy Award winner Tom Selleck returns to the role of Jesse Stone, the troubled police chief of Paradise, Mass., in this third chapter of the crime-mystery series based on Robert B. Parker’s best-selling novels. As Stone obsesses on solving the murder of a teenage girl found floating in a local lake, he also works a deadly domestic violence case and faces a run-in with Boston mobsters that may lead to grave consequences. (2006) Not Rated

Jesse Stone: Night Passage

After being cut loose from the LAPD for heavy drinking, Jesse Stone (Tom Selleck) is hired as police chief of Paradise, Mass., an idyllic seaside town. But it doesn’t take long for Stone to uncover the dark side of Paradise. After launching an investigation into a routine domestic abuse complaint, Stone unearths the town’s disturbing and violent secrets. This made-for-television movie is based on the writings of Robert B. Parker. (2006) Not Rated

Jesse Stone: No Remorse

Tom Selleck takes a sixth turn as small-town Massachusetts police chief Jesse Stone, who combats crime as well as personal issues in the movie series based on the best-selling novels by Robert B. Parker. After he’s suspended from his job, Stone travels to Boston at the request of his friend Capt. Healey (Stephen McHattie) — the state homicide commander — to help solve a string of murders plaguing the city. Not Rated

Jesse Stone: Sea Change

Tom Selleck returns in an Emmy-nominated performance as Jesse Stone, a recovering alcoholic and chief of police in sleepy Paradise, Mass. In this installment, Stone’s investigation into a years-old rape case is stonewalled as the town tries to keep the incident quiet to minimize the effect on tourism. Mika Boorem, Kathy Baker, William Devane and William Sadler co-star in this adaptation of the novel by Robert B. Parker. (2007 Not Rated

Jesse Stone: Stone Cold

Adapted from a novel by Robert B. Parker, this made-for-TV drama stars Tom Selleck as Jesse Stone, a jaded Los Angeles detective who takes a job as the police chief of a quiet coastal town in Massachusetts. The hard-drinking Stone maintains a low profile, but when a corpse washes ashore and multiple assailants rape a high school student, the former big-city cop goes into action. Among the supporting cast are Mimi Rogers, Viola Davis and Stephen McHattie. (2005) Rated R

Jesse Stone: Thin Ice

Tom Selleck returns as Jesse Stone, police chief of sleepy Paradise, Mass., who lands in hot water with the town council when he gets tangled up in a shootout in Boston, during which a state police commander takes a bullet. Stone continues to push the council’s buttons — and risks his job — by firing a favored Paradise city employee and taking on a controversial missing-persons case. Kathy Baker and Camryn Manheim co-star. (2009) Not Rated

The Jewel in the Crown

The passionate, turbulent and controversial love affair between a British-raised Indian man and an Englishwoman during the waning years of the British Raj is portrayed in this Masterpiece Theatre miniseries based on Paul Scott’s novel The Raj Quartet. Spanning 14 episodes shot in exotic locales in India and England, this exquisite human epic received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited Series and a Golden Globe for Best Miniseries. (1984)

The Last Enemy

When his brother Michael dies, researcher Stephen Ezard (Benedict Cumberbatch) returns to England after years abroad. Searching for answers about Michael’s death, Ezard realizes that his homeland has transformed into a surveillance state. To complicate matters, Stephen falls for Michael’s enigmatic widow, Yasmin (Anamaria Marinca). Robert Carlyle co-stars in this gripping British miniseries set in the near future. Not rated (2008)

Lost: The Complete Sixth Season

The final season of this drama brings the series to a smashing climax that reveals the fate of the survivors of Oceanic’s flight 815, including Jack (Matthew Fox, in his first Emmy-nominated role) and the others who escaped the island once, only to return. But as Kate (Evangeline Lilly), Sawyer (Josh Holloway), Locke (Terry O’Quinn), Ben (Michael Emerson) and the rest play out their destinies, the island may yet refuse to yield all of its secrets. Rated TV-14

Maggie Smith at the BBC

This three-disc set celebrates four of Dame Maggie Smith’s leading roles for the BBC. The collection begins with two 1972 Plays of the Month, The Merchant of Venice and The Millionairess. . In Alan Bennett’s quietly devastating Bed Among the Lentils,  Smith portrays Susan, a deeply disillusioned vicar’s wife, and in Sir Richard Eyre’s intimate 1993 adaptation of Tennessee Williams’s Suddenly, Last Summer, she takes on Mrs. Venable, a grief-stricken mother. Rob Lowe, Richard E. Grant, and especially Natasha Richardson, as Venable’s niece Catherine, contribute strong work to this Great Performances production.

Marple: Series 5

Julia McKenzie returns for another season as Miss Marple, author Agatha Christie’s beloved amateur detective whose advanced age belies the cunning powers of observation and deduction that help her identify even the wiliest killers. This season, Miss Marple investigates the poisoning of a woman at a Hollywood party; the shooting of an Austrian nobleman at a posh English estate; and the curious case of a woman frightened to death by her wallpaper. Not Rated

McLeod’s Daughters: The Complete Eighth Season

The eighth and final season of this popular Australian television drama finds the daughters McLeod struggling to keep the family homestead afloat at Drovers Run amid an ever-changing climate of tragedy and uncertainty. As the action unfolds, Riley (Dustin Clare) is still missing in the aftermath of the Christmas accident, although Grace (Abi Tucker), Patrick (Luke Jacobz) and Tayler (Gillian Alexy) have miraculously survived.

Misery

Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates) rescues her idol, romance novelist Paul Sheldon (James Caan), after he crashes his car during a fierce blizzard. But when she finds out he plans to kill off the heroine in his next volume, Annie morphs from nurturing caregiver to sadistic jailer. In this tightly wound, suspenseful adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, Bates earns her Best Actress Oscar as a woman come undone in a claustrophobia-inducing house of horrors. Rated R (1990)

The Moonlight Mile

Susan Sarandon and Dustin Hoffman co-star as the grieving mother and father of a recently deceased girl who take in their daughter’s fiancé (Jake Gyllenhaal) because he’s the only living connection they have to their only child. Problems arise when the young man falls in love with a woman (Ellen Pompeo) whose boyfriend has gone missing, prompting his former in-laws-to-be to come to grips with the new relationship. (2002) Rated PG-13

The Murdoch Mysteries: Season 2

Progressive inspector William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) investigates unusual crimes in Victorian-era Toronto in the second season of this suspenseful series. Accompanied by his stalwart partner (Jonny Harris), Murdoch uses new scientific tools to solve mysteries. Also aided by talented pathologist Dr. Ogden (Helene Joy), Murdoch works cases involving Buffalo Bill Cody, a possible Jack the Ripper suspect, Harry Houdini, werewolves and a dinosaur.

Project Runway: The Complete Seventh Season

The design competition is fierce — and uncommonly fashionable — as the seventh season of this hit reality series unfolds, bringing the action back to New York City after a season away in sunny Los Angeles. The first challenge asks the designers to craft a look that truly represents them as a designer. Later on, they design their own printed fabric and create haute couture for the hottest, young models: children.

Raffles: The Complete Collection

A dashing aristocrat turns criminal in this classic British drama. Meet A.J. Raffles (Anthony Valentine), a gentleman of leisure and a first-class cricketer. But when he’s not dining at his club or taking wickets for England, he’s often engaged in his other favorite activity–relieving the wealthy of their riches. A master of accents and disguise, Raffles is assisted by his old school chum “Bunny” Manders (Christopher Strauli). Always eager but often bewildered, Bunny follows his friend into the most complex of predicaments and deadliest of situations, likely as not pursued by the dogged Inspector Mackenzie (Victor Carin) of Scotland Yard.  In each episode, the roguish Raffles and his intrepid companion set out to plunder the wealth of the aristocracy, stay out of the reach of the law, and revel in the thrill of the game.(1977) Not Rated

Rough Crossings

Tells the story of the struggle for freedom by thousands of African-American ex-slaves who fled Southern plantations to fight behind British lines in the American War of Independence. Follows their dream of a journey to freedom in bone-chilling Nova Scotia and Sierra Leone. Features the stories of Englishman John Clarkson, a passionate advocate of the abolition of slavery, and two African men, Thomas Peters and David George, who escaped slavery in a quest for freedom. Cast: Joseph Marcell, Stephen Campbell Moore, Leo Wringer. Not Rated (2007)

St. John in Exile

Dean Jones is mesmerizing in his portrayal of the apostle John at a pivotal point in history. It’s 96 A.D., and scores of Christians have been massacred all over the Roman Empire. John is the last living disciple of Jesus, but he’s an 86-year-old man who’s been forced to spend his remaining days imprisoned in a cave on Patmos. Despite this fact, he refuses to give up and subsequently changes the future path of humankind. (1988) Not Rated

Shall We Dance?

During his daily commute, likable but dejected Tokyo office worker Shohei (Koji Yakusho) sees a stunning woman in a dance studio. Taken with her, he enrolls in ballroom dance lessons at the studio, even though he risks losing face by taking part in what his society considers an improper activity for a man. Shohei quickly realizes, however, that he has a gift for dance and loves participating in it, much to the alarm of his wife and daughter.  Japanese dialogue, English Subtitles.  Rated PG (1995)

Shout

Set against the backdrop of the birth of rock ‘n’ roll, Shout stars John Travolta (Saturday Night Fever) in this coming-of-age musical. Jesse Tucker’s (James Walters) rebellious ways eventually land him in the Benedict Home for Boys in a sleepy Texas town in the ’50s. But when Jack Cabe (Travolta) breezes in as the new music teacher, he introduces Jesse and the boys to the fresh and dangerous new sounds of rock ‘n’ roll. Cabe encourages Jesse to redirect his emotions into music, and to trust his love for Sara (Heather Graham), the beautiful young daughter of the repressive headmaster (Richard Jordan).

Small Island

When Hortense (Naomie Harris) leaves her native island of Jamaica and lands in 1948 London, she dreams of making a better life for herself and expanding her social opportunities. Instead, she’s confronted with racism and life’s harsh realities. One of the harshest is her marriage of convenience to a man (David Oyelowo) she doesn’t love. John Alexander directs this Masterpeice Theatre televised adaptation of Andrea Levy’s award-winning novel. Not Rated (2009)

Spring 1941

After Germany invades Poland and the Nazis order the confinement of all local Jews in the ghetto, medical doctor Artur Planck (Joseph Fiennes) manages to flee with his family, seeking refuge at the farm of Emilia (Kelly Harrison), their former grocer. With the Planck family hiding in her attic, Emilia finds her feelings for the physician growing stronger than she wants, or can control — despite the dangers of the situation. Rated R

Sunrise

A tender story of betrayal and redemption when a farmer intends to drown his wife, so he can be with a seductive city woman. Cast: George O’Brien, Janet Gaynor, Margaret Livingston. (1927) Not Rated

Surviving Picasso

Academy Awardwinner Anthony Hopkins gives a full-throttle performance as the acclaimed artist in this masterful movie told from the viewpoint of Picasso’s longtime mistress (Natascha McElhone) and mother of his children Claude and Paloma.  Rated R

That Darn Cat!

After a bank teller is kidnapped during a robbery, she manages to slip her wristwatch around a stray cat’s neck, hoping that the enterprising feline will lead rescuers to her location in this Disney family classic. Fortunately, the cat wanders into the home of Patti Randall (Hayley Mills), who recognizes the watch’s significance and pushes the FBI — headed by an allergic agent (Dean Jones) — into action. Rated G (1965)

Ugly Betty: The Complete Third Season

America Ferrera stars as Betty Suarez, a humble, plain but very determined 20-something whose quick wit and fearless attitude have helped her rise through the ranks of influential high-fashion rag Mode. In the fourth and final season of this Emmy-winning sitcom, Betty dives back into the treacherous waters of interoffice politics and fashion-world backstabbing, guided by her conviction that virtue can prevail over vanity. Not rated

Victor Borge: 100 Years of Music and Laughter

This unparalleled collection of Victor Borge’s funniest and most memorable skits contains such classic comedy bits as the timeless “Phonetic Punctuation,” “Inflationary Language,” “Autumn Leaves” with Robert Merrill, “The Opera Singer” with Marylyn Mulvey and more. Rare archival footage from the Borge family vault enhances this memorable retrospective. Rita Rudner narrates.

When You’re Strange: A Film about the Doors

Composed entirely of original footage from 1966-71, Tom DiCillo’s documentary about the Doors filters truth from myth, reveals new insight into Jim Morrison and his bandmates, and captures the essence of the iconic rock group and the era. DiCillo’s film pays tribute to the Doors and their music and to a generation’s struggle for individuality and authenticity during an unstable and transformative epoch in America. (2009) Rated R

Wind at My Back: The Complete First Season

Kevin Sullivan and Trudy Grant — creators of the acclaimed television miniseries “Anne of Green Gables” — deliver another family-centered period drama, this time set in the 1930s. In the show’s 13-episode first season, Honey Bailey (Cynthia Belliveau) struggles to keep her family together during the Great Depression, and her two sons (Dylan Provencher and Tyrone Savage) use their creativity to get her a birthday gift. (1996)

Wycliffe: Series Three

Along England’s picturesque Cornish coast, perceptive Det. Supt. Charles Wycliffe (Jack Shepherd) continues to collaborate with his trusted colleagues Kersey (Jimmy Yuill) and Lane (Helen Masters) in order to solve the surrounding region’s mysterious murder cases. Series 3 of this British police program finds Wycliffe’s team investigating treasure hunters, insurance swindlers and other clever criminals. Not Rated

New Releases on DVD – August 2010

Across The Hall

Armed and ready to kill his fiancé’s (Brittany Murphy) mysterious lover in the hotel room across the hall, Terry (Danny Pino) nervously phones his best friend, Julian (Mike Vogel), who offers comfort and guidance while calmly trying to conceal the fact that he’s the man Terry’s after. Director Alex Merkin based this gripping noir thriller, which explores the dangerous intersection of love, sex and friendship, on his own 2005 short film. Rated R

Adam Resurrected

Decades after he survived the Holocaust by becoming a pet “dog” to a brutal concentration camp commandant (Willem Dafoe), Jewish circus entertainer Adam Stein (Jeff Goldblum) finds himself confined to an Israeli mental institution. But when he encounters a feral young boy being held like a dog in the hospital’s basement, Stein discovers a new opportunity to reclaim his humanity. Paul Schrader directs this biting drama. Rated R

Bounty Hunter

Milo Boyd (Gerard Butler) is a bounty hunter whose latest gig is rather satisfying, as he finds out that the bail-skipper he must chase down is his own ex-wife, Nicole (Jennifer Aniston) — but she has no intention of getting nabbed without a fight. Complicating matters, Nicole’s wannabe-boyfriend, Stewart (Jason Sudeikis), joins the chase in this high-octane comedy from director Andy Tennant (Hitch). Rated PG-13

Brooklyn’s Finest

Antoine Fuqua directs this tense drama about three wildly different New York cops whose paths collide in a Brooklyn housing project, where each must make a decision that will change the course of their lives forever. Cynical, washed-up Eddie (Richard Gere) no longer cares about the job or the rules; cash-strapped Sal (Ethan Hawke) sees a shortcut to solvency; and Tango (Don Cheadle) is torn between conflicting loyalties. Ellen Barkin co-stars. Rated R

Chloe

Suspecting her husband, David (Liam Neeson), of infidelity, doctor Catherine (Julianne Moore) hires sexy escort Chloe (Amanda Seyfried) to seduce him and test his faithfulness. But as Catherine checks in on Chloe’s encounters with David, Chloe’s reports become increasingly lurid. Soon, the relationships between all three intensify in unexpected ways. Renowned filmmaker Atom Egoyan directs this psychological drama. Rated R

The Clash of the Titans

If he is to save the life of the beautiful Princess Andromeda (Alexa Davalos), the valiant Perseus (Sam Worthington) — born to a god but raised as a man — must lead a team of intrepid warriors on a quest to battle a host of powerful, beastly enemies. This sweeping fantasy epic, a remake of the 1981 hit, also stars Liam Neeson as Zeus, Ralph Fiennes as Hades, Danny Huston as Poseidon and Gemma Arterton as Io. Rated PG-13

Cop Out

Jimmy Monroe (Bruce Willis) and off-kilter Paul Hodges (Tracy Morgan) are two suspended cops trying to track down a stolen and very valuable 1950s baseball card. Along the way, they encounter a Mexican beauty and countless other characters and get entangled with the mob. Kevin Smith (Clerks) directs this comedic action flick co-starring Adam Brody, Jason Lee, Michelle Trachtenberg, Kevin Pollak and Seann William Scott. Rated R

The Crazies

When a plane crashes in a small town, a secret biological weapon is released. As the toxic substance infiltrates the local water system, some residents become gravely ill, while others descend into homicidal madness. Sheriff David Dutton (Timothy Olyphant) attempts to set things straight, but soon the military becomes involved in containing the killer virus. Breck Eisner directs this chilling remake of George A. Romero’s 1973 horror classic. Rated R

Creation

Paul Bettany stars as Charles Darwin in this BBC biographical drama that captures the legendary scientist in a period of intense mourning — and expansive intellectual discovery — following the untimely death of his young daughter, Annie. As Darwin dares to question the existence of God, he pens his groundbreaking tome, On the Origin of Species — much to the chagrin of his religious wife, Emma (Jennifer Connelly). Rated PG-13

Date Night

Who knew simple dinner reservations under a different name could turn one New Jersey couple’s date night so terribly upside-down? Claire (Tina Fey) and Phil (Steve Carell) Foster leave their kids with the sitter (Leighton Meester) and head out for a night on the town — as the Tripplehorns.  Mark Wahlberg and James Franco co-star. Rated PG-13

Death at a Funeral

Put-upon Aaron (Chris Rock) is always plagued by drama and dysfunction, but he encounters more than he can handle while attempting to plan his father’s funeral. What’s a family gathering without jealousy, tension and blackmail? Martin Lawrence, Tracy Morgan, Danny Glover, James Marsden, Luke Wilson, Zoe Saldana, Regina Hall and Columbus Short round out a stellar ensemble cast. Neil LaBute directs. Rated R

The Eclipse

In this supernatural thriller penned and helmed by award-winning Irish playwright Conor McPherson, Ciarán Hinds stars as a recent widower who begins to sense that a mysterious presence is sharing his house. Iben Hjejle and Aidan Quinn co-star as a pair of novelists whose worlds converge with that of the widower thanks to an international literary festival in Wexford that brings surprising changes to all their lives. Rated R

The Ghost Writer

A writer (Ewan McGregor) stumbles upon a long-hidden secret when he agrees to help former British Prime Minister Adam Lang (Pierce Brosnan) complete his memoirs on a remote island after the politician’s assistant drowns in a mysterious accident. In director Roman Polanski’s tense drama, the author realizes that his discovery threatens some very powerful people who will do anything to ensure that certain episodes from Lang’s past remain buried.  Rated PG-13

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist) and rebellious computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace) team up to investigate the unsolved disappearance of wealthy Henrik Vanger’s (Sven-Bertil Taube) teen niece (Ewa Fröling), only to uncover dark secrets about Vanger’s powerful family. Niels Arden Oplev directs this Swedish thriller based on the first novel from Stieg Larsson’s best-selling trilogy. Rated R

The Good Guy

Well aware of his own blessings, up-and-coming Wall Street star Tommy Fielding (Scott Porter) decides to mentor one of his co-workers, Daniel (Bryan Greenberg). But his new protégé may prove too apt a pupil in this romantic comedy penned and helmed by Julio DePietro. All is going according to plan until Daniel befriends Tommy’s new girlfriend, Beth (Alexis Bledel) — at which point things go rapidly south for Tommy. Rated R

The Greatest

Allen (Pierce Brosnan) and Grace (Susan Sarandon) Brewer are still mourning the accidental death of their teenage son, Bennett (Aaron Johnson), when the boy’s troubled girlfriend reveals that she is carrying his baby. Now Bennett’s family must release their anger to make room for the new life. Shana Feste writes and directs this moving drama; Carey Mulligan, Michael Shannon, Johnny Simmons and Zoë Kravitz co-star. Rated R

Greenberg

At a crossroads in his life in New York, Roger Greenberg (Ben Stiller) takes some time to figure things out and travels to Los Angeles, where he house-sits for his brother and forges an unlikely bond with his brother’s assistant, Florence (Greta Gerwig). Acclaimed director Noah Baumbach’s (The Squid and the Whale, Margot at the Wedding) finely observed relationship comedy also stars Jennifer Jason Leigh and Rhys Ifans. Rated R

Hot Tub Time Machine

Fueled by energy drinks, vodka and nostalgia for their younger, wilder days, a group of aging best friends travels back in time to 1987, where they get the chance to relive the best year of their lives. And their time machine? Well, it’s a hot tub. John Cusack, Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, Clark Duke, Crispin Glover and Sebastian Stan co-star in this out-of-the-box comedy that takes time travel to a whole new level. Rated R

The Last Station

Set during the last year of Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy’s life, this biopic explores the fractious relationship between Tolstoy (Christopher Plummer) and his wife (Helen Mirren), as he embraces a life of asceticism. Paul Giamatti co-stars as impassioned Tolstoy devotee Vladimir Chertkov, with James McAvoy playing the aging writer’s assistant, Valentin, who is caught in the middle of various struggles. Rated R

Our Family Wedding

Forest Whitaker and funnyman Carlos Mencia butt heads as two domineering dads forced to set aside their culture-clash differences and team up to plan their children’s wedding, with only two weeks until the big day arrives. America Ferrera plays the pregnant bride-to-be opposite Lance Gross as her medical resident fiancé in this wacky comedy from writer-director Rick Famuyiwa (Brown Sugar, The Wood). Rated PG-13

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief

After he discovers that he’s the son of the Greek god Poseidon (Kevin McKidd), 12-year-old Percy Jackson (Logan Lerman) strikes out on an action-packed adventure to rescue his mortal mother and negotiate a peace treaty between his father, Zeus (Sean Bean), and Hades (Steve Coogan). Chris Columbus directs this fun family tale that also stars Pierce Brosnan, Rosario Dawson and Uma Thurman. Rated PG

The Red Baron

Based on the true story of the notorious World War I flying ace, this drama explores the life of Manfred von Richthofen (Matthias Schweighöfer) — aka the Red Baron — from his childhood fascination with flying to his renowned career in the Luftwaffe. After rescuing Canadian pilot Roy Brown (Joseph Fiennes) and falling for military nurse Käte Otersdorf (Lena Headey), the deadly but honorable von Richthofen begins to question the value of war. Rated PG-13

The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry

The lives of three 12-year-old buddies — sharing a carefree existence in the summer of 1970 — suddenly change when one of them, Dustin (Jansen Panettiere), makes an unexpected friend after cutting the lawn of 75-year-old Jonathan Sperry (Gavin MacLeod). As Jonathan shares lessons in faith with Dustin and his pals (Frankie Ryan Manriquez and Allen Isaacson), a spiritual transformation occurs in this Christian drama helmed by Rich Christiano. Rated PG

She’s Out of My League

When he starts dating drop-dead gorgeous Molly (Alice Eve), insecure airport security agent Kirk (Jay Baruchel) can’t believe it. As his friends and family share their doubts about the relationship lasting, Kirk does everything he can to avoid losing Molly forever. Kyrsten Ritter, Lindsay Sloane, Jasika Nicole and Andrew Daly also star in this charming romantic comedy about unlikely lovers. Jim Field Smith directs. Rated R

A Single Man

This stream-of-consciousness, 1960s-era drama centers on a day in the life of George Falconer (Colin Firth) an English-born, Los Angeles college professor reeling from the recent death of his lover of 16 years. Fashion designer Tom Ford makes his directoral debut with this luminous film, which is based on Christopher Isherwood’s novel. Julianne Moore, Matthew Goode, Ginnifer Goodwin, Lee Pace and Nicholas Hoult co-star. Rated R

Stolen

Investigating the mystery behind the mummified, half-century-old remains of a young boy found in a box at a construction site gives a detective (Jon Hamm) key clues to his own son’s disappearance eight years prior. Unfolding through flashbacks, this mystery-thriller from director Anders Anderson also stars Josh Lucas, James Van Der Beek, Jessica Chastain, Rhona Mitra, Jimmy Bennett and Beth Grant.  Rated R

What Just Happened

A harried film producer (Robert De Niro) juggles a lunatic director, a temperamental actor (Bruce Willis) and an out-of-control production while courting a studio head (Catherine Keener) and dealing with his ex (Robin Wright Penn) in director Barry Levinson’s witty and poignant exploration of the movie business. The all-star comedy is based on veteran Hollywood producer Art Linson’s sharply observed novel. Rated R

New Releases on DVD – June 2010

Alice in Wonderland

A 19-year-old Alice (Mia Wasikowska) journeys through Underland, where she experiences strange ordeals and encounters peculiar characters, including the vaporous Cheshire Cat (voiced by Stephen Fry), the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp) and the sadistic Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter). Anne Hathaway, Alan Rickman, Matt Lucas and Crispin Glover co-star in director Tim Burton’s bold adaptation of the Lewis Carroll classic. Rated PG

Armored

Armored truck guards Mike (Matt Dillon), Baines (Laurence Fishburne) and Quinn (Jean Reno) turn against one another after their plan to steal $10 million from their own company goes seriously haywire. A witness throws a wrench into their seemingly flawless strategy, so each man scrambles to save his own skin — whatever the cost to the other conspirators. Nimród Antal directs and Columbus Short co-stars. Rated PG-13

The Book of Eli

Determined to salvage a sacred text in order to protect humanity, Eli (Denzel Washington) goes on a quest across the country in this action-packed sci-fi adventure. Meanwhile, a blind woman named Claudia (Jennifer Beals) tries to protect her daughter, Solara (Mila Kunis). It seems that tyrannical town bully Carnegie (Gary Oldman) has taken a shine to the girl. Directed by the Hughes brothers, the film co-stars Ray Stevenson. Rated R

The Brothers Bloom

The Brothers Bloom made a name for themselves as the world’s best con men. Now, the younger (Adrien Brody) is ready to retire on the millions the pair has swindled. But when his brother (Mark Ruffalo) lures him into one last job, he reluctantly agrees. What he hasn’t counted on, though, is falling for their mark, an adventure-seeking heiress (Rachel Weisz). Robbie Coltrane and Babel’s Rinko Kikuchi co-star. Rated PG-13

Capitalism: A Love Story

Filmmaker Michael Moore (Sicko, Fahrenheit 9/11) takes on capitalism’s roots, the floundering U.S. economy, and 2008’s global financial meltdown and subsequent bank bailout in this rousing documentary. Combining stories about those who suffer most from Corporate America’s greed and insatiable thirst for profits and the people most responsible for myriad crises, Moore embarks on another shocking fact-finding rampage. Rated R

Daybreakers

Earth’s population is up against a vicious plague that’s transforming everyone into vampires and draining the world of an increasingly precious resource: blood. Edward Dalton (Ethan Hawke) and “Elvis” Cormac (Willem Dafoe) must decide what happens next. As the human race count nears zero, will vampires feast on the few men and women who remain, or could science hold the key to a less destructive solution? Sam Neill and Claudia Karvan co-star. Rated R

Dear John

While on leave, U.S. soldier John Tyree (Channing Tatum) falls for Southern college student Savannah (Amanda Seyfried), whose ideals and heartfelt principles are at once attractive and unfamiliar. But their love is put on hold when terrorist attacks prompt John to reenlist. Now, handwritten letters hold the lovers together. Lasse Hallstrom directs this modern romance based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks. Rated PG-13

From Paris with Love

While working at the American embassy in Paris, low-level intelligence agent James Reece (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) gets involved in espionage when he’s pulled into a terrorist plot by high-ranking but uncouth American operative Charlie Wax (John Travolta), who’s trying to stop it. Pierre Morel directs this fast-paced international thriller. Richard Durden also stars. Rated R

Green Zone

U.S. Defense Intelligence Agent Clark Poundstone (Greg Kinnear) doesn’t want to hear what Army Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller (Matt Damon) has to say about not finding the weapons of mass destruction — evidence that could launch a war — he’s been sent to Iraq to unearth. Why the cover-up? Rajiv Chandrasekaran’s exposé Imperial Life in the Emerald City: Inside Iraq’s Green Zone inspired this frenetic wartime drama. Rated R

Hachi: A Dog’s Tale

When his master, Parker (Richard Gere), dies, a loyal pooch named Hachiko keeps a regular vigil — for more than a decade — at the train station where he once greeted the man every day in director Lasse Hallström’s touching drama based on a true story. Hachiko’s faithful routine teaches the station’s patrons about true love and commitment. Joan Allen stars as Parker’s wife; Sarah Roemer, Jason Alexander and Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa co-star. Rated G

The Maiden Heist

Over the years, museum security guards Roger (Christopher Walken), Charles (Morgan Freeman) and George (William H. Macy) each fall in love with a particular work of art in their care. But now, the new curator is shipping out all three works in an overhaul of the museum’s collection. Desperate to save their favorite pieces, the men hatch a plan to steal them before they can be shipped away. Marcia Gay Harden co-stars. Rated PG-13

The Messenger

An injured U.S. soldier, Sgt. Will Montgomery (Ben Foster), is paired up with by-the-book Capt. Tony Stone (Oscar nominee Woody Harrelson) to notify families of killed soldiers — a job that bonds them as they debate different views on serving America. At odds at first, the two find common ground while facing life’s variety of battles. Oren Moverman directs this poignant military tale that co-stars Samantha Morton and Jena Malone. Rated R

Planet 51

When Earth astronaut Capt. Chuck Baker (Dwayne Johnson) arrives on Planet 51 — a world reminiscent of American suburbia circa 1950 — he tries to avoid capture, recover his spaceship and make it home safely, all with the help of an empathetic little green being. Joe Stillman (Shrek) writes and Jorge Blanco directs this animated thrill ride that also features the vocal talents of Jessica Biel and Gary Oldman. Rated PG

Remember Me

Still reeling from a heartbreaking family event and his parents’ subsequent divorce, Tyler Hawkins (Robert Pattinson) discovers a fresh lease on life when he meets Ally Craig (Emilie de Ravin), a gregarious beauty who witnessed her mother’s death. But as the couple draws closer, the fallout from their separate tragedies jeopardizes their love. Allen Coulter directs this romantic drama that co-stars Pierce Brosnan, Lena Olin and Chris Cooper. Rated PG-13

The Road

From the ash-covered, post-apocalyptic remains of Appalachia, the Father (Viggo Mortensen) and Son (Kodi Smit-McPhee) take to the road in search of a better life. But the Father’s health is failing, lending urgency to a journey impeded by nomadic bands of cannibals. Charlize Theron co-stars in this adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, set in a fictional near future in which the world has been virtually destroyed. Rated R

Shutter Island

World War II soldier-turned-U.S. marshal Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) investigates the disappearance of a patient from a hospital for the criminally insane, but his efforts are compromised by his own troubling visions and by Dr. Cawley (Ben Kingsley). Mark Ruffalo, Michelle Williams, Emily Mortimer and Max von Sydow co-star in director Martin Scorsese’s plot twist-filled psychological thriller set on a Massachusetts island in 1954. Rated R

Unthinkable

When the government gets wind of a plot to destroy America involving a trio of nuclear weapons, locations unknown, it’s up to a seasoned interrogator (Samuel L. Jackson) and an FBI agent (Carrie-Anne Moss) to find out exactly where they are. A suspected terrorist who’s already in custody is their only chance for a timely answer. But what will it take to get him to talk? Michael Sheen, Brandon Routh and Martin Donovan co-star. Rated R

When in Rome

After fishing out coins from a water fountain in Italy, cynical New Yorker Beth Harper (Kristen Bell) finds herself being wooed by several ardent suitors. As she deals with the attention, Beth tries to figure out whether a charming reporter (Josh Duhamel) really loves her. Danny DeVito, Anjelica Huston, Jon Heder, Dax Shepard and Will Arnett also star in this romantic comedy. Mark Steven Johnson directs. Rated PG-13

The Wolfman

Based on the 1941 classic, this werewolf-themed horror film set in Victorian England centers on Lawrence Talbot (Benicio Del Toro), an American man who, upon a visit to London, gets bitten by a werewolf. Talbot had come to England to make amends with his estranged father (Anthony Hopkins), but after a moonlight transformation leaves him with a savage hunger for flesh, family harmony is the least of his worries. Rated R

Youth in Revolt

Nick Twisp (Michael Cera), a cynical, sex-deprived teenager living a less-than-satisfactory existence, is pushed by the manifestation of his debonair, rebellious id (also Cera) to bed his dream girl, Sheeni Saunders (Portia Doubleday). Miguel Arteta directs this irreverent, dark comedy based on the popular novel series by C.D. Payne. Steve Buscemi, Ray Liotta, Justin Long, Fred Willard, Jean Smart, M. Emmet Walsh and Zach Galifianakis co-star. Rated R

New DVDs: TV Series, Nonfiction and Feature Length Films – June 2010

Affairs of the Heart: Series 2

Rakishness and romance are in the air in this second anthology of stories inspired by the timeless works of American-born British novelist Henry James, a writer who knew the power of a good plot twist fueled by character-driven drama. Eileen Atkins, Derek Jacobi, Sinéad Cusack and other recognizable names co-star in this selection of six hourlong episodes based on Daisy Miller, An International Episode and some of James’s lesser-known tales. (1974) Not Rated

The Big Bang Theory: Season 2

Two socially inept physicists realize how little they know about the real world when a beautiful woman moves into the apartment next door. Sheldon (Jim Parsons, in his first Emmy-nominated role) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki) try their best to impress Penny (Kaley Cuoco), who helps teach them about life outside their lab. In the second season of this witty sitcom, the geniuses and their equally awkward pals continue their education about the non-geek population.

The Book of Ruth: Journey of Faith

Tolerance, compassion and faith are the keynotes of this moving Christian drama that illustrates the biblical story of Ruth. After being widowed, Ruth (Sherry Morris) travels to Israel, a land in turmoil, and struggles to create a new life for herself. She marries Boaz (Carman), of the Royal House of Judah, and he leads her to a greater understanding of God’s love. Their son Obed will become King David’s grandfather and a herald for the Messiah. (2009) Not Rated

Celebrating Bird: The Triumph of Charlie Parker

In film clips, photos, and interviews, the life of virtuoso saxophonist Charlie Parker is traced from Kansas City to the New York jazz scene of the 1950s.

The Cinder Path

From Masterpiece Theatre, Englishman Charlie McFell (Lloyd Owen) wrestles with his demons — including a coldhearted wife (Catherine Zeta-Jones), economic hardship, the horror of the world’s first Great War and a painful secret he’d rather forget. But Charlie eventually comes out on top in this emotional, made-for-television miniseries based on Catherine Cookson’s best-selling novel. (1995) Not Rated

Collision

In the wake of a six-car crash that leaves two people dead, Detective Inspector John Tolin (Douglas Henshall) and Senior Investigating Officer Ann Stallwood (Kate Ashfield) launch an investigation that unearths dark personal secrets, corporate crime and even murder. Meanwhile, Tolin and Stallwood must deal with their own relationship and come to terms with their past in this Masterpiece Theatre program. Not Rated (2009)

The Commander: Set One

Follow the adventures of Scotland Yard’s Serious and Organised Crime Group Commander, Clare Blake (Amanda Burton), as she starts an affair with a recently released murderer (Hugh Bonneville), cares for her cancer-stricken sister and searches for London’s most dangerous killers. Always taking risks in her personal and professional lives, the unconventional Blake continually battles the attacks of her resentful co-worker, DCI Hedges. (2003) Not Rated

The Couple

Martin Landau heads the cast as Joseph Krauzenberg, an affluent Jewish industrialist who agrees to surrender all of his vast material wealth to the Nazis in return for his family’s safe passage out of German-occupied Hungary. But Krauzenberg’s decision puts his most loyal servants, the Vassmans (Kenny Doughty and Caroline Carver), in jeopardy. Judy Parfitt plays Landau’s stately wife in this somber World War II drama directed by John Daly. (2004) Not Rated

Crooked

When a call girl witnesses a gangland hit, she becomes the mob’s next target, and the only people who can save her are mismatched cops Danny Tyler (Don  Wilson) and Phil Yordan (Olivier Gruner). The pair quickly become targets as well, and all three are soon on the run. But is one of them secretly tipping off their pursuers?  (2005) Rated R

Dalziel And Pascoe: Season One

Unusual methods aside, detectives Andy Dalziel (Warren Clarke) and Peter Pascoe (Colin Buchanan) have nothing in common — Dalziel is the loudmouthed copper to Pascoe’s genteel inspector — but together they crack Yorkshire’s most obstinate murder cases. The opening season of this BBC drama finds the pair investigating the death of a rugby player’s wife and the reappearance of a school principal’s body — and even taking a shine to each other. (1996) Not Rated

A Day in October

This compelling suspense drama follows the underground war-time evacuation of the Jews from Nazi-occupied Denmark to neutral Sweden. The Jewish Kublitz family lives quietly and comfortably in Copenhagen until a wounded Gentile resistance fighter, Niels (D.B. Sweeney) is saved from death by young Sarah Kublitz (Kelly Wolf) who gives him shelter in the Kublitz home. Sarah and Niels fall in love as the Resistance learns of the Nazis plan to arrest Jews. Sarah’s father, who works as a bookkeeper in a Nazi arms factory, must face some tough moral choices. (1991) Rated PG-13

The Deal

The head of Britain’s Labour Party has suddenly died. The two possible successors, political rivals Tony Blair (Michael Sheen) and Gordon Brown (David Morrissey), meet at a fateful 1994 dinner to debate the fate of the country, while flashbacks recount the story of their friendship. This absorbing political drama was meticulously adapted from real events by Peter Morgan and directed by Stephen Frears — the same team behind The Queen. Not Rated (2003)

The Diary of Anne Frank

From Masterpiece Theatre, teenager Anne Frank (Ellie Kendrick) and her Jewish family hide from the Nazis during World War II in this outstanding BBC production of the classic book. As time drags on, they deal with both the terrifying fear of their situation and normal family life. But the cramped quarters and tense situation sometimes cause tempers to flair. Presented in five half-hour episodes, the series intertwines some of Frank’s actual words within the action. (2009) Not Rated

Doc Martin: Series Three

Irascible and uptight as always, the good doctor Martin Ellingham (Martin Clunes) takes on challenges both medical and human in the third season of this British TV series set in the Cornish fishing village of Portwenn. The healer’s relationship with Louisa (Caroline Catz) is as dicey as ever, and he can’t seem to keep his foot out of his mouth. Meanwhile, the doc has acquired an aggressive new suitor in the form of hotel owner Carrie Wilson. (2007) Not Rated

An Englishman in New York

John Hurt plays celebrated, iconic gay author-artist Quentin Crisp (the subject of Sting’s song, “Englishman in New York”) in this pseudo biopic that chronicles Crisp’s high-profile move from London to New York’s Bowery in the 1980s. Cynthia Nixon, Swoosie Kurtz, Denis O’Hare and Jonathan Tucker also star in this long-anticipated sequel to the groundbreaking, made-for-television adaptation of “The Naked Civil Servant.” (2008) Not Rated

Everwood: The Complete Second Season

Just as Andy (Treat Williams) and his two kids, Ephram (Gregory Smith) and Delia (Vivien Cardone), begin to settle into their new home in Everwood, the widower doctor finds himself mired in turmoil when the town’s residents blame him for the death of Colin Hart (Mike Erwin). But things begin to look up for the family when Ephram finds love with a college student (Sarah Lancaster), and Andy begins to fall for Dr. Linda Abbott (Marcia Cross). (2003) Not Rated

Foyle’s War: Set 6

At the end of World War II, amid still turbulent times, Det. Chief Inspector Christopher Foyle (Michael Kitchen) solves the crimes that dog the British coastal town of Hastings, mysteries that have pulled him from retirement. In this three-episode set, a Russian POW’s escape leads to murder; racial tensions boil as African American soldiers await their departure home; and Foyle investigates an accused traitor too willing to meet his fate. Not Rated

Freud

David Suchet offers up an award-winning performance with his portrayal of Dr. Sigmund Freud in this 1984 BBC miniseries tracing the life and career of the founder of psychoanalysis, from his early professional days until his death. The production also features Michael Pennington as Freud’s nemesis, Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung; Helen Bourne as his wife, Martha Bernays; Suzanne Bertish as his sister-in-law; and Alison Key as his daughter, Anna. (1984) Not Rated

Lady Day: The Many Faces of Billie Holiday

This sparkling documentary features rare TV and movie clips, along with commentary by a stellar group of jazz instrumentalists and singers who knew her well.

Mad Men: Season 3

The martini-sipping, chain-smoking execs of New York ad agency Sterling Cooper — led by the dashing and mysterious creative director Don Draper (Jon Hamm) — wade deeper into the turbulence of the 1960s in the third season of this Emmy-winning series. The acclaimed ensemble cast features Elisabeth Moss as rising star Peggy Olson, John Slattery as slick senior partner Roger Sterling, and January Jones as Don’s beautiful but unhappy wife, Betty. (2009) Not Rated

MI-5: Season 7

Richard Armitage joins the cast of this award-winning British spy series as Lucas North, a former MI-5 agent who’s back on the job after spending eight years in a Russian prison — which makes him a perfect fit for Section D’s priority of the moment. But the question is, can he be trusted? His old friend Harry Pearce (Peter Firth) would like to think so but has his doubts. Alex Lanipekun, Hugh Simon and Gemma Jones co-star. (2008) Not Rated

Midsomer Murders: Set 15

The cozy villages of Midsomer County reveal their most sinister secrets in these contemporary British television mysteries. Inspired by the novels of Caroline Graham, modern master of the English village mystery, the series stars John Nettles as the unflappable Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby, with Jason Hughes as his earnest, efficient protégé, Detective Sergeant Ben Jones.

Murphy’s Law: Series One

Murphy’s Law: Series Two

After the IRA murders his daughter, hard-boiled Detective Tommy Murphy (James Nesbitt) escapes to London. Guilt-ridden over her death, Murphy brings a bad attitude to his work as an undercover officer for the Metropolitan Police in this acclaimed British cop series. But with nothing left to lose, he throws himself into the job, diving deep into the city’s underbelly and taking on the most treacherous assignments. (2001) Not Rated

My Neighbors The Yamadas

This animated film follows the adventures of the quirky Yamada family, drawn with digital technology to resemble the watercolor look of the popular “Nono-chan” comic strips. Jim Belushi and Molly Shannon lend their voices to father-and-mother team Takashi and Matsuko, who do their best to handle two children (Liliana Mumy and Daryl Sabara), a live-in grandmother (Tress MacNeille) and Pochi, the family dog. (1999) Rated PG

New Tricks: Season One

Following her mishandling of a recent hostage crisis, Det. Superintendent Sandra Pullman is reassigned as the new head of the Unsolved Crime and Open Case Squad, a team of investigators charged with reexamining cold cases. Determined to not allow the reassignment derail her, Pullman sets out to make the UCOS a top-notch unit with the help of semi-retired detectives Jack Halford (James Bolam) and Gerry Standing (Dennis Waterman). (2003) Not Rated

New Tricks: Season 2

Retired detectives Gerry Standing (Dennis Waterman), Jack Halford (James Bolam) and Brian Lane (Alun Armstrong) are as creaky as the cases they’ve been called in to revive. The leads are bone cold, and their methods verge on eccentric, but their desire for justice hasn’t gone out of style. Season 2 of the BBC sleeper-hit series has the odd combo tracking down a missing greyhound and poking around a fishing pit, among other seriocomic pursuits. (2005) Not Rated

Nine Queens

Two small-time grifters (Ricardo Darin and Gastón Pauls) endure a series of tense negotiations when they attempt to sell a sheet of counterfeit stamps for a hefty sum, but the process is made more stressful when one of the con men’s estranged sister (Leticia Bredice) becomes involved. Fans of American writer David Mamet will appreciate the twists in this Argentinean caper from writer-director Fabián Bielinsky. Spanish dialogue, English subtitles. (2000) Rated R

Pie in The Sky: Series Two

Semi-retired cop Henry Crabbe (Richard Griffiths) pursues his lifelong dream of opening a restaurant, much to the chagrin of his boss (Malcolm Sinclair), who needs Crabbe on the force, and his accountant wife (Maggie Steed), who worries about the financial risks of Crabbe’s new business. Griffiths shines as the brainy, culinary-minded policeman in this deliciously quirky British crime drama from the 1990s. (1995) Not Rated

Place of Execution

Journalist Catherine Heathcote (Juliet Stevenson) solicits the help of investigator George Bennett (Lee Ingleby) for her documentary about the 1963 disappearance of a 13-year-old girl. But when Bennett abruptly stops cooperating, Heathcote begins to unravel some surprising truths. Now Heathcote may have to reevaluate her deep-rooted beliefs about justice. Based on the book by Val McDermid, this “Masterpiece” special co-stars Greg Wise.  (2009) Not Rated

Project Runway: The Complete Sixth Season

Sixteen new designers compete in Los Angeles, finding inspiration everywhere from Malibu’s beaches to the Getty Museum. Features all-new challenges, projects that should never have been made, and celebrity appearances, including Christina Aguilera, Eva Longoria Parker, and Lindsay Lohan. Rated TV-14

Rick Steves’ Italian Countryside

Includes all 6 half-hour Rick Steves’ Europe TV shows on Italy’s countryside, produced from 2000 to 2009: Cinque Terre (Italy’s Hidden Riviera), Siena and Assisi (Italy’s Grand Hill Towns), Tuscany’s Dolce Vita, Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and  The Best of Sicily.

Rick Steves’ Scandinavia

Includes all 4 half-hour episodes on Scandinavia from the Rick Steves’ Europe television program, produced from 2000 to 2009.  Copenhagen — Denmark Beyond Copenhagen — Oslo, Bergen and the Fjords — Stockholm and Helsinki.

Sharpe’s Challenge

Sean Bean reprises his role as Richard Sharpe eight years after his last go-around as the swashbuckling hero. Word that a local maharaja is threatening British interests sends Sharpe on his most dangerous mission yet. When the Indian warlord kidnaps the daughter of a general, Sharpe has not only her fate in his hands but that of an entire empire. Shot in India, and based on the popular adventure novels by Bernard Cornwell. (2006) Not Rated

Sharpe’s Peril

Sean Bean reprises his role as Lt. Col. Richard Sharpe in this made-for-TV adventure set in 1818, when Sharpe and Sgt. Maj. Patrick Harper (Daragh O’Malley) run afoul of a bandit leader while traveling with a disparate group of soldiers and traders to Madras. Desperate to defeat the wily outlaw, Sharpe trains his new, reluctant militia to fight as they traverse the hostile terrain, but discovers that the bandits aren’t their most dangerous enemy. (2008) Not Rated

Second Look: Adults with Autism

Third Look: Supports for Adults with Autism

Produced by the PA Department of Public Welfare, these DVDs look at social supports for adults with autism. Support professionals discuss the importance of assisting autistic adults in the development of social and life skills. Profiles a number of Pennsylvania residents with autism.

The 39 Steps

Richard Hannay (Rupert Penry-Jones) has his holiday interrupted when secret agent Scudder (Eddie Marsan) bursts into his apartment, staying alive just long enough to deposit a notebook. Pegged with murder, Hannay must decode the book and nab the culprits — before they find him first. In this nimble BBC update of John Buchan’s novel, German spies and British police give chase as Hannay races to deliver the coveted code and avert a world war. (2008) Not Rated

True Blood: Season Two

Telepathic waitress Sookie (Anna Paquin) attempts to solve a recent murder and sort out several issues with her vampire boyfriend, Bill (Stephen Moyer), including how to deal with his annoying teenage houseguest, Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll). Season two of this critically acclaimed vampire series features new characters, including Iraq war veteran Terry (Todd Lowe) and mysterious social worker Maryann (Michelle Forbes).

The United States of Tara: Season One

Steven Spielberg created this wry cable series that follows Tara (Toni Collette, in a Golden Globe-winning role), a wife and mother suffering from a dissociative identity disorder. As she wrestles with multiple personalities, Tara works to keep her dysfunctional family from falling apart. John Corbett co-stars as Tara’s husband, who finds ways of coping with his wife’s mutability. Keir Gilchrist and Brie Larson play the couple’s children. Not Rated

Wind at my Back: The Complete Second Season

Honey Bailey (Cynthia Belliveau) may have found love and security with teacher Max Sutton (James Carroll), but she still has her share of troubles in this dramatic series from the creators of “Anne of Green Gables.” In the show’s sophomore season, Honey’s sister-in-law Grace (Kathryn Greenwood) launches a radio advice program and becomes a local celebrity, and a ghost seems to be haunting New Bedford’s best hotel. (1997) Not Rated

Wind at My Back: The Complete Third Season

In the third season of this saga set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, life doesn’t get any less complicated for Honey, her children, their controlling grandmother or anyone else in the Bailey brood. As the season opens, the failure of the Silver Dome Mine is having far-reaching effects on the city of New Bedford, and May is more determined than ever to wrest back control of the mine and her town’s fortunes. (1999) Not Rated

Wind at My Back: The Complete Fourth Season

In 1930s Ontario, in the depths of the Great Depression, widow Honey Bailey continues to live with the terrible choice thrust upon her by her wealthy, controlling mother-in-law, trying her best to provide a life for the children she left behind. In the fourth season of this frequently heartbreaking melodrama, Honey has taken gravely ill and is consigned to a sanitarium, while the rest of the family deals with their own issues. (2000) Not Rated

Wind at my Back: The Complete Fifth Season

The popular series from the creators of “Anne of Green Gables” returns for a fifth and final season, continuing to chronicle the trials and tribulations endured by the ever-resilient Bailey family during the Great Depression. Following her stint in a sanatorium, Honey (Laura Bruneau) returns to New Bedford to find her family in flux. Max (James Carroll) considers a career in politics and Hub (Dylan Provencher) contemplates priesthood. (2000)

New Releases on DVD – May 2010

Closing the Ring

Shirley MacLaine and Christopher Plummer star in Richard Attenborough’s bittersweet tale of love, loss, promises and secrets. Fifty years after the death of her true love, Ethel Ann (MacLaine) must finally grieve the painful past unearthed by a found ring. As daughter Marie (Neve Campbell) struggles to understand her cold, alcoholic mother, Ethel Ann and Jack (Plummer) revisit their shared past, and the aching promises made long ago are revealed. Rated R

Crazy Heart

When reporter Jean Craddock (Oscar nominee Maggie Gyllenhaal) interviews Bad Blake (Oscar winner Jeff Bridges) — an alcoholic, seen-better-days country music legend — they connect, and the hard-living crooner sees a possible saving grace in a life with Jean and her young son. But can he leave behind an existence playing in the shadow of Tommy (Colin Farrell), the upstart kid he once mentored? Robert Duvall produces and co-stars. Rated R

The Edge of Darkness

As a seasoned homicide detective, Thomas Craven (Mel Gibson) has seen the bleakest side of humanity. But nothing prepares him for the toughest investigation of his life: the search for his only daughter Emma’s (Bojana Novakovic) killer. Now, he is on a personal mission to uncover the disturbing secrets surrounding her murder, including corporate corruption, government collusion and Emma’s own mysterious life. Rated R

Endgame

Confidential political negotiations between South African government representative Prof. Willie Esterhuyse (William Hurt) and African National Congress President Thabo Mbek (Golden Globe nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor) lead to the peaceful demise of apartheid. Taking place in a bucolic British country estate, the talks are fraught with tension, but together the two men find a common path in this engaging Pete Travis-helmed drama. Rated PG-13

Extraordinary Measures

After their two young children are diagnosed with a rare genetic disease for which conventional medicine has no cure, John (Brendan Fraser) and Aileen (Keri Russell) pin their hopes on the work of unconventional scientist Dr. Robert Stonehill (Harrison Ford). Director Tom Vaughan’s heartfelt drama is based on the true story of the Crowley family, as chronicled by journalist Geeta Anand in her book The Cure. Rated PG

Five Minutes of Heaven

A powerful meditation on guilt, forgiveness and reconciliation, this potent drama stars Liam Neeson and James Nesbitt as two men on opposite sides of Northern Ireland’s political struggle: one a killer, the other the brother of the man he killed. In crafting his keenly sensitive film, director Oliver Hirschbiegel eschews the predictable to deliver a work of tremendous insight and emotional complexity. Not Rated

The Guitar

In one fateful day, Mel Wilder (Saffron Burrows) is fired from her job, abandoned by her boyfriend and diagnosed with a terminal disease. With nothing left to lose, Mel’s determined to make the most of her final days by living the life she always dreamed of. Directed by Amy Redford, this touching story celebrates the emotional and spiritual liberation of a woman who thumbs her nose at death and refuses to go gently into that good night. Rated R

Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus

Christopher Plummer and Heath Ledger star in this quirky fantasy from director Terry Gilliam. When a deal with the devil comes due, the immortal Doctor Parnassus (Plummer) must renegotiate the pact to save his daughter. Now, with the help of his mystical theater troupe and a mysterious stranger, Parnassus attempts to right the wrongs of his past. The Oscar-nominated film is Ledger’s last, with Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell and Jude Law all completing his role. Rated PG-13

Invictus

In this drama based on real-life events, director Clint Eastwood tells the story of what happened after the end of apartheid when newly elected president Nelson Mandela used the 1995 World Cup rugby matches to unite his people in South Africa. Based on John Carlin’s book, the film stars Morgan Freeman as Mandela and Matt Damon (both Oscar nominated) as Francois Pienaar, the captain of the scrappy South African team that makes a run for the championship. Rated PG-13

It’s Complicated

Ten years after their divorce, Jane (Meryl Streep) and Jake (Alec Baldwin) enjoy an amicable friendship. When the two unite for their son’s college graduation, their romance is rekindled. But Jake is married, and Jane’s architect, Adam (Steve Martin), has a thing for her. Now cheating on the younger woman for whom he left Jane, Jake wants his ex-wife back. But Jane’s busy getting to know Adam. Nancy Meyers (Something’s Gotta Give) wrote and directed this Golden Globe-nominated comedy. Rated R

Leap Year

Anna (Amy Adams) chooses February 29 to propose marriage to her “perfect” boyfriend, Jeremy (Adam Scott), sure he’ll accept because of an Irish custom. But after meeting charming innkeeper Declan (Matthew Goode) en route to Dublin, Anna must evaluate her original plans. Anand Tucker directs this charming romantic comedy about finding what one really wants in the most unexpected places. John Lithgow co-stars. Rated PG

Legion

In the wake of an apocalypse of major proportions, a motley crew of survivors (including Dennis Quaid, Tyrese Gibson and Kate Walsh) ekes out a living at an abandoned truck stop in the desert, never suspecting that the pregnant woman walking among them is carrying the Messiah. Paul Bettany co-stars in this thriller as the archangel Michael, who was sent to Earth to steer humankind away from darkness and toward the light. Rated R

The Lovely Bones

When 14-year-old Susie Salmon (Saoirse Ronan) is murdered, she watches from above as her family deals with her tragic death — and as her killer prepares to strike again. Torn between vengeance and healing, Susie’s loved ones are forever changed. Mark Wahlberg and Rachel Weisz star in Peter Jackson’s adaptation of Alice Sebold’s riveting, best-selling novel; Susan Sarandon and Oscar nominee Stanley Tucci co-star. Rated PG-13

The New Daughter

Luis Berdejo directs this supernatural thriller centered on John James (Kevin Costner), who moves to the country to get a new start — only to be confronted by a new nightmare when his daughter, Louisa (Ivana Baquero), begins acting stranger by the minute. With unsettling events besetting the South Carolina home, John begins to believe that something on the edge of the forest nearby might have the answers he needs. Rated PG-13

Nine

Movie director Guido Contini (Daniel Day-Lewis) is in the throes of a midlife crisis, struggling to write his film while juggling relationships with wife Luisa (Marion Cotillard), mistress Carla (Oscar nominee Penélope Cruz), muse Claudia (Nicole Kidman), producer Lilli (Judi Dench) and his mother (Sophia Loren).  Stacy Ferguson and Kate Hudson co-star. Rated PG-13

The Spy Next Door

While babysitting for his neighbor, Gillian (Amber Valletta), Bob (Jackie Chan) is thrust into a world of top-secret adventure after one of the kids inadvertently downloads a secret code in this action-packed comedy. Now Bob must guard the children when secret agents descend upon them. Billy Ray Cyrus, Lucas Till and George Lopez co-star, with Lopez playing CIA agent Glaze, who might not be on the up-and-up. Rated PG

Tenderness

After completing his stint in a juvenile detention center for murder, 18-year-old ex-con Eric Poole (Jon Foster) embarks on a hazardous road trip with Lori, a hyper teen (Sophie Traub), close by his side. But little do the troubled pair know that they are being tracked by Det. Cristofuoro (Russell Crowe), a hard-nosed New York cop who’s convinced that Poole is a psychopath capable of killing again. Rated R

Tooth Fairy

When minor-league hockey player Derek Thompson — who has a penchant for knocking out his opponents’ teeth every time he plays — disillusions a fan, he is sentenced to a stint for one week as a bona fide, tutu-clad, real-life tooth fairy. Soon, Derek is inspired to rekindle his youthful dreams. Ashley Judd portrays his love interest, Carly, in this family comedy starring The Rock aka Dwayne Johnson. Rated PG

Valentine’s Day

n this Los Angeles-set comedy from director Garry Marshall (Pretty Woman), the tripwires of modern love are exposed in a carousel involving relationships and the single life on the most romantic day of the year: February 14. Proposals, infidelity, loneliness and more are explored. Julia Roberts, Ashton Kutcher, Jamie Foxx, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Jennifer Garner, Bradley Cooper and Patrick Dempsey lead a star-studded cast. Rated PG-13

The Young Victoria

Eighteen-year-old British royal Victoria (Emily Blunt) ascends to the throne and is romanced by future husband Prince Albert (Rupert Friend) in this lush period film that chronicles the early years of the British monarch’s larger-than-life reign. Produced by Martin Scorsese and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, the Oscar-nominated film also stars Miranda Richardson as the Duchess of Kent, Jim Broadbent as King William, and Paul Bettany as Lord Melbourne.  Rated PG

New DVDs: TV Series, Nonfiction and Feature Length Films – May 2010

Bang the Drum Slowly

Bruce Pearson (Robert De Niro) is a dedicated baseball player who’s hiding a secret: He has Hodgkin’s disease. His only confidante is the team’s star pitcher, Henry Wiggin (Michael Moriarty), who covers for him as he faces not only a waning season but a slowly fading life. Vincent Gardenia received an Academy Award nomination for his role as the team’s coach in this tearjerker based on Mark Harris’s 1950s novel. Rated PG (1973)

Blackbeard: Terror at Sea

A National Geographic special featuring dramatic reenactments of the exploits of the pirate Edward Teach, a.k.a. Blackbeard, who during his career led in the pillage of some forty ships en route to or from the Caribbean. (2006)

Concertos, Sonatas, Trios: Mozart

Anne-Sophie Mutter playing all of Mozart’s major compositions for the violin as “Mozart project.”

Cranford: Return to Cranford

The two-part saga Return to Cranford opens to a struggling Cranford, a traditional English village that in autumn 1844 is airing the conflicts that accompany progress. Miss Matty Jenkyns (Judi Dench), after having closed her business in the last series, is happily babysitting the child of her maid, Martha (Claudie Blakley). This gives the ladies in town something to gossip about, as does every other small event in this chatty group. The same women populate this new Cranford–the snooty Miss Jamieson (Barbara Flynn), nosy Miss Pole (Imelda Staunton), Miss Forrester (Julia McKenzie), Peggy (Jodie Whittaker), and Erminia (Michelle Dockery)–while a few new men added into the mix creates options for love interests throughout.

Damages: The Complete Second Season

Golden Globe winner Glenn Close returns as ruthless attorney Patty Hewes in FX’s critically acclaimed legal thriller that explores the cutthroat world of high-stakes litigation in New York City. Rose Byrne (28 Weeks Later) co-stars as Ellen Parsons, once a wide-eyed associate who’s now a clever, hardened attorney in her own right. Ellen’s out for justice, and she may give her former mentor a run for her money.

A Death in Tehran

From the PBS series Frontline, at the height of the protests following Iran’s presidential election, a young woman named Neda Soltani was shot and killed on the streets of Tehran. Her death was filmed on a cameraphone, then uploaded to the web, quickly becoming an international outrage. Frontline investigates the life and death of the woman who remains a symbol for those wanting to keep the movement alive. (2009)

Emma

Convinced that she’s a superb matchmaker, Emma Woodhouse (Romola Garai) — despite warnings from her friend Mr. Knightley (Jonny Lee Miller) — persuades her chum Harriet Smith (Louise Dylan) to reject suitor Robert Martin (Jefferson Hall) and find a better husband. After Emma suffers the consequences of her meddling, she learns that love often hides in plain sight. Michael Gambon also stars in this BBC adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel.

Lost: The Complete First Season

Lost: The Complete Second Season

Lost: The Complete Third Season

Lost: The Complete Fourth Season

Lost: The Complete Fifth Season

Stranded on a tropical island after their plane crashes 1,000 miles off course, a group of castaways must learn to survive in their new home, avoid the gigantic something crashing through the trees and determine whether they’re really alone. Matthew Fox, Evangeline Lilly, Terry O’Quinn, Dominic Monaghan and Naveen Andrews head the diverse ensemble cast in this landmark series, which won an Emmy for Best Drama.

The Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland Collection

Contents: Babes in Arms (1939), Strike Up the Band (1940), Babes on Broadway (1941), and Girl Crazy (1943)

Midsomer Murders: Set 14

The cozy villages of Midsomer County reveal their most sinister secrets in these contemporary British television mysteries. Inspired by the novels of Caroline Graham, modern master of the English village mystery, the series stars John Nettles as the unflappable Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby, with Jason Hughes as his earnest, efficient protégé, Detective Sergeant Ben Jones. Guest stars include Stephanie Cole, Gareth Thomas, Christopher Fairbank, Richard Hope, Peter Eyre, Chris Barrie, Matthew Marsh, and Clare Higgins.

The Perfect Gift

A spoiled schoolgirl, her overworked executive mother, and a disillusioned young minister each receive an uplifting message about friendship, commitment, and the truest meaning of Christmas from a friendly, but mysterious “drifter” named Jess. Not Rated

Poldark: Series One

This sweeping miniseries follows Capt. Ross Poldark (Robin Ellis) as he returns to England after fighting in America’s War for Independence. In Cornwall, Poldark discovers that his beloved Elizabeth (Jill Townsend) is engaged to his cousin and his fortune has been lost. Ross struggles to revive his estate, reconcile himself to a future with a new bride, Demelza (Angharad Rees), and overcome a bitter feud with rival George (Ralph Bates). (1975) Not Rated

Private Practice: The Complete First Season

Private Practice: The Complete Second Season

In this “Grey’s Anatomy” spinoff, neonatal surgeon Addison Forbes Montgomery (Kate Walsh) leaves the drama of Seattle Grace Hospital for a new life in Santa Monica, Calif., at the Oceanside Wellness Group. Though her new co-workers have no shortage of emotional baggage, they’re standout physicians — and Addison goes along for the ride. The series also stars Tim Daly, Taye Diggs, Amy Brenneman, Paul Adelstein and Audra McDonald.

Rudy Maxa’s World: India

Plunge right into northern India’s intoxicating mix of riotous pandemonium and sublime beauty, from Old Delhi’s teeming streets, pungent spices, and glorious jumble of shops to the magnificent man-made wonder, the Taj Mahal. Rajasthan beckons with its irresistible lure of brilliant colors, scorching days, ghostly twilights, and the fiery spirit of its people.

Rudy Maxa’s World: Thailand

Explore all of Bangkok’s nooks and crannies. Get picture-taking tips from a photojournalist, and visit the fruit and vegetable markets where Thai cooking begins. In the heart of Thailand’s Golden Triangle, take an idyllic long-tailed boat ride along the Kok River, luxuriate in out-of-this-world guest houses and a tented resort, and go bargain hunting at the Night Market.

Shipwreck! Captain Kidd

This National Geographic documentary follows a group of underwater archaeologists as they explore the wreckage of the Quedagh Merchant– a 17th-century ship loaded with valuables from the East Indies that the notorious Captain Kidd captured and scuttled off the coast of Catalina Island in the Dominican Republic.

The Treaure of the Sierra Madre

Wrapped in a classic tale of adventure, this Academy Award winner helmed by John Huston follows a trio of gold prospectors who set out to strike it rich and agree to split the take … until paranoia and greed consumes one of them. Delivering superb performances as the three miners are Humphrey Bogart, Tim Holt and Walter Huston, who copped a Best Supporting Actor Oscar while son John scored statuettes for his direction and screenplay. Not Rated (1948)

The Tudors: Season 3

The sexually insatiable King Henry VIII (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) romances third wife Jane Seymour (Annabelle Wallis) and ruthlessly quashes an uprising of rebels protesting England’s break with Rome in the third season of Showtime’s Golden Globe-nominated historical drama. But dissension within his own ranks leads Henry to question the loyalty of his closest allies. Grammy winner Joss Stone joins the cast as Anne of Cleves, Henry’s fourth wife.  Not Rated

Weeds Season 5

Showtime’s hit dramedy lights up another season of good times after a tumultuous fourth-year finale that found suburban mom-turned-drug lord Nancy Botwin (Golden Globe winner Mary-Louise Parker) sharing some shocking news with Tijuana, Mexico, Mayor Esteban Reyes (Demián Bichir). While Andy (Justin Kirk) continues to wrestle with his feelings for Nancy, Shane (Alexander Gould) shows interest in taking up the family business. Not Rated

New CDs – April/May 2010

All In Good Time Barenaked Ladies, CD 781.66 BAR 2010 – 2010 album from the acclaimed multi-platinum Canadian Pop-Rock group, their first without co-vocalist Steven Page. Since their inception, they have racked up eight Juno awards and multiple Grammy nominations, sold more than 14 million albums worldwide, written a plethora of hit singles and amassed an international fanbase whose members number in the millions. All In Good Time, their 11th studio album was produced by longtime collaborator Michael Phillip Wojewoda and mixed by Bob Clearmountain.

Emotion &  Commotion Jeff Beck, CD 781.66 BEC 2010 – For his first studio album in seven years, Grammy-winning guitarist Jeff Beck returns with an eclectic mix of tracks that find the guitar virtuoso accompanied by a handpicked cast of talented musicians, as well as several songs accompanied by a 64-piece orchestra. Rhino unleashes the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer s restless genius with EMOTION & COMMOTION.Beck recorded EMOTION & COMMOTION late last year at Sarm Studios in London with award-winning producers Steve Lipson and Trevor Horn. To create the album s diverse sound, Beck used a number of musicians, including appearances by frequent collaborators Vinnie Colaiuta (drums), Jason Rebello (keyboards), and Tal Wilkenfeld (bass). The album also includes contributions from a trio of singers: Imelda May (‘Lilac Wine’), Olivia Safe (‘Elegy For Dunkirk’), and Grammy-winner Joss Stone (‘I Put A Spell On You’ and ‘There s No Other Me’).

A Reality Tour David Bowie, CD 781.66 BOW 2009 – Bowie fans can rejoice over the news that A REALITY TOUR is finally being released as a double-CD, an audio remastering of his hugely successful 2004 tour including three previously unreleased tracks from the concert: China Girl, Breaking Glass and Fall Dog Bombs The Moon.

Broken Bells Broken Bells, CD 781.66 BRO 2010 – Broken Bells is, The Shins’ James Mercer & Danger Mouse. Featuring “The High Road” and “The Ghost Inside” Broken Bells features Mercer on vocals, guitars and bass while Brian Burton aka Danger Mouse plays organ, drums, piano, synths and bass. The pair play all the instruments on the album with the exception of a full string section arranged by Daniele Luppi. Broken Bells was recorded at Mondo Studio in Los Angeles and produced by Danger Mouse.

Here Lies Love David Byrne, CD 781.63 BYR 2010 – ‘Here Lies Love’ is a 22 song double-disc song cycle – improbably poignant, decidedly surreal, surprisingly thought provoking – about the rise and fall of the Philippines’ notorious Imelda Marcos. It was conceived by David Byrne; composed by Byrne and British deejay/recording artist Fatboy Slim, a/k/a Norman Cook; and performed by a dream cast drawn from the worlds of indie rock, alt country, R&B and pop.

The Canadian Tenors The Canadian Tenors, CD 781.63 CAN 2009 – The Canadian Tenors have crisscrossed the globe thrilling millions of music lovers with their magical voices, their wonderful sense of humor, and their memorable music. The foursome have received rave reviews and standing ovations around the world from the Tel Aviv Opera house where they shared the stage with Andrea Bocelli to Las Vegas Mandalay Bay Coliseum with David Foster and Friends to Toronto s Air Canada Centre where they headlined at ONE NIGHT LIVE with STING and Sheryl Crow. They have performed over 80 concerts for over 150,000 people on three separate continents and have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities as they share a passion for bringing awareness to impoverished children world-wide.

Genuine Negro Jig Carolina Chocolate Drops, CD 781.643 CAR 2010 – The Carolina Chocolate Drops are as much about revelation as revival. On its Nonesuch debut, Genuine Negro Jig, the trio brings exuberance, humor, virtuosity and an infectious acoustic groove to its exploration of a near-forgotten brand of banjo-driven string-band music originating more than a century ago in the foothills of North Carolina, the Piedmont region where band members Rhiannon Giddens and Justin Robinson were raised. In this rural area, musicians, both black and white, once shared and swapped tunes.

The Age of Miracles Mary Chapin Carpenter, CD 781.642 CAR 2010 – The Age of Miracles is the 3rd Zoe/Rounder release from world renowned singer-songwriter Mary Chapin Carpenter. The Age of Miracles has been a work in progress since 2007. The album is a personal exploration of regret and resilience but also a larger, more universal expression of wonder at the times we are living in. Carpenter is backed by an incredible band that includes Matt Rollings (piano, B-3 organ), Russ Kunkel (drums), Duke Levine (electric and acoustic guitar), Glenn Worf (bass), Dan Dugmore (steel and 12 string guitar) and Eric Darken (percussion). It also features guest vocals by Vince Gill and Alison Krauss.

American VI: Ain’t No Grave Johnny Cash, CD 781.642 CAS 2010 – American VI: Ain’t No Grave, is the sixth and final installment of Johnny Cash’s critically-acclaimed American Recordings album series. As with the previous five albums in the American Recordings series, American VI was produced by Rick Rubin. American VI is deeply elegiac and spiritual, with each song its own piece of the puzzle of life’s mysteries and challenges – the pursuit of salvation, the importance of friendships, the dream of peace, the power of faith, and the joys and adversities that entail simple survival. It is an achingly personal and intimate statement, as, from the end of the line, Johnny Cash looks back on a most extraordinary life.

The Pursuit Jamie Cullum, CD 781.65 CUL 2010 – This album contains tracks spanning across the Pop, Hip Hop and Jazz genres, including the lead single ‘I’m All Over It’, an outstanding take on Rihanna’s ‘Don’t Stop The Music’ and the spectacular ballad ‘Love Ain’t Gonna Let You Down’ as well as many more. Cullum mixes Jazz with melodic Pop and Rock into a crossover style that calls to mind such artists as Harry Connick, Jr., and Norah Jones. In that vein, Cullum will just as often cover a swinging Jazz standard as a modern Rock song, and his original compositions deftly move from earnest ballads to songs of sardonic wit.

The Open Door EP Death Cab for Cutie, CD 781.66 DEA 2009 – 2009 EP from the Indie favorites containing four new tracks and one unreleased demo. The band’s platinum selling album Plans was a huge success, which came after their DVD collection Directions, which sold over 30,000 copies. Following up those was no easy task, but Narrow Stairs has already been praised by MTV.com as the band’s most daring and adventurous effort to date. Now, although the four new tracks are a little different from those on the last album, The Open Door can be considered a companion piece to Narrow Stairs.

Big To-Do Drive-By Truckers, CD 781.66 DRI 2010 – ATO Records is pleased to announce the release of The Drive-By Truckers label debut, The Big To-Do. The album, which will be the band’s tenth in their thirteen-year career, is scheduled to be released March 16, 2010. The Big To-Do features thirteen new tracks from the Drive-By Truckers and was produced by their long time producer, David Barbe (Sugar, Bettye LaVette). ‘It s very much a rock album,’ says Patterson Hood of the Trucker s upcoming release. ‘Very melodic and more rocking than anything we ve done since disc 2 of Southern Rock Opera.’

Women and Country Jakob Dylan, CD 781.642 DYL 2010 – Women + Country is Jakob Dylan’s highly anticipated sophomore album following his critically acclaimed solo debut, Seeing Things. Women + Country is soulful yet striking, ripe with sublime beauty. Paired with Oscar, Grammy, and Golden Globe award winning producer T Bone Burnett (Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, Crazy Heart) and joined with the stirringly rich vocals of Neko Case and Kelly Hogan, Women + Country creates a compelling and powerful experience for the listener.

Fearless Love Melissa Etheridge, CD 781.66 ETH 2010 – Fearless Love, her triumphant tenth album, expands on the multiple strengths that have made Etheridge one of the most beloved figures in modern rock. It follows her revealing 2007 set The Awakening with a rousing tone at once tough and tender, as only Etheridge can be. It’s that force of presence that has earned her, among other accolades, the 2007 Academy Award for best original song (“I Need to Wake Up” from the documentary An Inconvenient Truth) and two Grammy Awards.

Irm Charlotte Gainsbourg, CD 781.63 GAI 2009 – January 26th, 2010 marks the Because Music / Elektra release of Charlotte Gainsbourg’s third studio album titled IRM. The title is derived from M.R.I, which reflects the medical procedure Charlotte had to go through after suffering a head injury in a water skiing accident in 2007. The album is Charlotte’s most personal to date, and is produced by acclaimed Grammy nominated artist/multi-instrumentalist Beck.

My Best Days Danny Gokey, CD 781.642 GOK 2010 – The debut Country album from the 8th season finalist of American Idol featuring the single “My Best Days are Ahead of Me”. During his bid for the Idol title, Gokey impressed the judges with his vocal versatility, but it was his buoyant personality and perseverance in the face of adversity that earned Gokey a special place in the hearts of Idol devotees.

Plastic Beach Gorillaz, CD 781.66 GOR 2010 – Five years on from the release of Demon Days, Murdoc Niccals and co. return with Plastic Beach. The band have taken up residence, recording on a secret floating island deep in the South Pacific, a Plastic Beach HQ, made up of the detritus, debris and washed up remnants of humanity. This Plastic Beach is the furthest point from any landmass on Earth; the most deserted spot on the planet.

Somewhere Down the Road Amy Grant, CD 781.7 GRA 2010 – Amy Grant returns with a plethora of NEW music ! Somewhere Down The Road is a unique album full of 6 brand new songs, 2 previously unreleased songs, a new recoding of a classic song “Arms Of Love”, and rounded out with 3 of her best loved story-songs. The theme for the album is stories & journeys. Amy has always been a great storyteller and many of her most impactful songs have come from her own journey as she sings about the honesty of life, it’s joys and struggles, and ultimately the hope she has found in faith and love. The songs on Somewhere Down The Road read like journal entries that will resonate with anyone who grapples with wanting answers to life’s toughest questions.

Downtown Church Patty Griffin, CD 782.254 GRI 2010 – Hailed as one of Americana and folk music’s most esteemed artists, Patty Griffin has sold over a million records and was awarded with the Americana Music Association’s highest honor as “Artist Of The Year” in 2007. Griffin has received multiple Grammy nominations and has toured the country relentlessly, creating avid followers wherever her music is heard. She is a natural songbird that can hush an audience with her performances, but Griffin’s power is in her passionate storytelling with a voice that is mournful yet uplifting. Patty Griffin’s new album, Downtown Church, is a collection of Gospel-infused songs produced by longtime friend, bandmate and acclaimed producer Buddy Miller at the Downtown Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN. Downtown Church brings to life Gospel songs that have influenced contemporary music in a way that only Patty Griffin can do.

The Open Road John Hiatt, CD 781.66 HIA 2010 – Looking at life through the rearview mirror was the inspiration for John Hiatt s brand new album, The Open Road. A classic Hiatt record, the rockin songs sizzle with the heat from two-lane blacktop on a summer s day. Hiatt and his touring band (Kenny Blevins on drums, Patrick O Hearn on bass and Doug Lancio on guitars) recorded a set that gives Garage Rock a new meaning. All the other years, my songs are about coming home, Hiatt says. But within these 11 new songs including Haulin and the title track The Open Road home is never the destination.

Freight Train Alan Jackson, CD 781.642 JAC 2010 – After 20 years of writing and recording hit after hit, country music has become synonymous with Alan Jackson. The superstar has sold over 50 million albums and has claimed nearly 100 industry awards – including three CMA Entertainer of the Year Awards. Freight Train, Jackson’s 18th album was produced by longtime collaborator Keith Stegall and features 12 brand new songs, one of which is Jackson’s hot new single, “It’s Just That Way.” Eight of the album’s dozen tracks bear Jackson’s songwriting credit, including one he penned with Roger Murrah, with whom he wrote one of his biggest hits, “Don’t Rock the Jukebox.” In a moving tribute to the legendary Vern Gosdin, who passed away last year and for whom Jackson has long expressed admiration, Jackson enlisted Lee Ann Womack to record “Till the End,” Gosdin’s 1977 classic duet with Janie Fricke.

Black Ribbons Shooter Jennings, CD 781.642 JEN 2010 – Highly anticipated 2010 album from singer/songwriter Shooter Jennings. Black Ribbons features a unique collaboration between Jennings and best-selling author Stephen King. The 70-minute concept album sees King provide the voice of Will O’ The Wisp, a late-night talk show radio host who is in the last hour of his final broadcast before the airwaves is overtaken by ‘government-approved and regulated transmissions.’

Animal Ke$ha, CD 781.649 KE$ 2010 – 2010 debut album from the American singer/songwriter who achieved fame as featured vocalist on Flo Rida’s hit single ‘Right Round’. Animal was executive produced by Dr. Luke (Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Kelly Clarkson, and Avril Lavigne) and includes collaborations with producers Max Martin and Benny Blanco. The album’s first smash single, ‘TiK ToK’, has had TV placements in the Project Runway promo spots, Melrose Place and So You Think Can Dance.

The Fame Monster Lady Gaga, CD 781.63 LAD 2009 – Says Lady Gaga, “In the midst of my creative journey composing The Fame Monster, there came an exciting revelation that this was in fact my sophomore album. I would not add, nor take away any songs from this EP, it is a complete conceptual and musical body of work that can stand on its own two feet. It doesn’t need The Fame.” “We may have an economy, but MUSIC HAS NO ECONOMY. I will release four or more singles from The Fame Monster, tour the world with The Monster Ball Tour, and most importantly I insist on honoring my fans with an affordable new album, an album that is as loyal to them, as they have been me.” “For those who do not have my debut album, there are a series of collectible double-disc editions that include both albums and artwork conceived by the Haus of Gaga in collaboration with our mentor Hedi Slimane. Hear the music, see the show, live and love yourself…Lady Gaga.”

Orchestrion Pat Metheny, CD 781.65 MET 2010 – Orchestrion was influenced by the primitive but evocative player-piano technology of yesteryear that has fascinated Metheny since he was a child. The player piano inspired inventors of that age to create the orchestrion, a large mechanical multi-instrument device that imitated the sound of an orchestra. Metheny brings this concept into the 21st century, composing and playing five ambitious pieces with his tailor-made, sophisticated, musically dynamic ensemble. Orchestrionics is what Metheny calls this new method of performing. The resulting album, recorded in midtown Manhattan s MSR studio after months of experimentation at home, is a marvel of the digital era, yet the record sounds beautifully, stirringly, human. In other words, timeless.

The Boy Who Knew Too Much Mika, CD 781.66 MIK 2009 – 2009 sophomore album, the follow-up to his multi-million selling debut, produced by Mika and Greg Wells (Katy Perry, P!nk). The Boy Who Knew Too Much features guest contributions by Imogen Heap and Final Fantasy’s Owen Pallett, and contains the brilliant first single ‘We Are Golden’. The album straddles a line between childish na‹vet‚ and world-worn sophistication; Mika likens this transformation as the shift from childhood and his debut’s innocence to something more akin to adolescence. The arrangements are bigger and more beautiful than ever before, and the album is underpinned by an open-hearted and accepting idea of what living in the 21st century means in all its contradictory, complicated glory.

Still Standing Monica, CD 781.643 MON 2009 – Multi-Platinum, Grammy Award winning recording artist, Monica, is set to release her new album Still Standing on March 23, 2010. Producers joining her in the studio on the new project include Neyo, Missy Elliot, Jermaine Dupri, Brian Cox, Stargate, and Carlos McKinney.

My Dinosaur Life Motion City Soundtrack, CD 781.66 MOT 2009 – 2010 release from the American Punk Pop band. My Dinosaur Life marks the band’s major label debut and finds them reuniting with producer and friend Mark Hoppus of Blink-182, who first teamed up with the band when he produced their hit record Commit This to Memory. Andy Wallace (Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Sonic Youth) was brought in to mix the album and the end result is another step forward: 12 new songs that are lyrically contemplative and poignantly honest while still cleverly culturally astute and music that harkens back to early Motion City Soundtrack while employing the musicianship and maturity the band has gained over the past seven years.

The Outsiders Needtobreathe,CD 781.66 NEE 2009 – Needtobreathe’s third studio album, The Outsiders is slated for an August 25, 2009 release. Recorded from the end of 2008 through April 2009 with Jim Scott, John Alegia and Rick Beato, fans will be reintroduced to the versatility they knew from their previous album, The Heat. The Outsiders truly finds NEEDTOBREATHE coming into their own, seamlessly blending ambient, arena-ready soundscapes with a decidedly Southern sensibility.

Country Music Willie Nelson, CD 781.642 NEL 2010 – Willie Nelson goes back to his roots with a songbook of classic Americana. Country Music was recorded in Nashville, TN and produced by T Bone Burnett. Nelson wrote one track on the album, “Man With The Blues” and, with T Bone Burnett, co-arranged three traditional songs, “Satan Your Kingdom Must Come Down,” “I Am A Pilgrim,” and “Nobody’s Fault But Mine.” The album also features many popular old-time/bluegrass/folk songs including Ernest Tubb’s “Seaman’s Blues, Merle Travis’ “Dark As A Dungeon,” and Doc Watson’s “Freight Train Boogie”. Willie Nelson collaborated with many musicians on Country Music including old-time banjo master Riley Baugus, double bassist Dennis Crouch, and T Bone himself, all musicians featured on Raising Sand, the 2009 Grammy® award-winning Album of the Year by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss.

Have One on Me Joanna Newsom, CD 781.66 NEW 2010 – 2010 three CD release from the acclaimed singer/songwriter, the long-awaited follow-up to her album The Y’s. Featuring Ryan Francesconi and Neal Morgan from Joanna’s Ys Street Band, Have One On Me is an extravagantly packaged collection of fantastic new Joanna Newsom songs: her most colorful record to date. Joanna’s music has more of an affinity with the Folk revival of the ’60s, or the Bluegrass movement at present, than with most contemporary Folk (or Anti-Folk) scenes. Affinities aside, her style could hardly be called Bluegrass; nor does it evoke the pastoral tonalities of ’60s Folk: she sings about whalebones, sleep, grammar, mollusks, accumulation, automobiles, owls, burning boats, string collections, milk, teeth, bridges, balloons, cake, colors, and kin, all in an otherworldly, ragged-sweet voice that defies convention.

Now 33: That’s What I Call Music Various Artists, CD 781.63 NOW 2010 – 2010 release, the 33rd installment in this groundbreaking compilation series. To date, the NOW series has generated sales of over 200 million albums worldwide, and has sold over 74 million copies in the United States since its debut. Every album in the NOW series has reached the Billboard Top 10, and it is the only non-soundtrack, multi-artist collection to reach #1 Billboard status on the Billboard Top 200 Album Sales Chart. 21 tracks including cuts from Kesha, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Snoop Dogg, Young Money, Jay Sean and many others.

Ollusion Omarion, CD 781.643 OMA 2010 – Grammy® – nominated entertainer Omarion makes his long awaited return to the scene with his third studio album, Ollusion Throughout each record on the forthcoming release, Omarion showcases his growth as an artist and entertainer. Omarion is back with an updated sound and truly consistent album that proves he has grown up, as his fans have. The triple threat known for his vocal, dancing and acting abilities, penned and co-produced all of the songs on Ollusion.

Harmony The Priests, CD 782.22 PRI 2009 – 2009 sophomore albu from the singing global superstars who broke the Guinness world record for the fastest selling classical debut album of all time. The Priests, brothers Fathers Martin and Eugene O’Hagan and Father David Delargy, were young school friends when they first sang together at the age of 12 (Martin and David) and 15 (Eugene). Their love of singing continued whilst studying for the priesthood in Rome. Once ordained, all three took up parish commitments. Singing was both part of prayer plus, in their spare time, they performed in local operas, musicals and choirs. In February 2008, a record company scout knocked on their door and asked them to make a demo. The rest, as they say is history. The Priests never allow their music commitments to stand in the way of their day jobs and parish obligations.

Soldier of Love Sade, CD 781.643 SAD 2010 – Known for their one of a kind timeless sound, Sade has enjoyed phenomenal success both internationally and stateside throughout the span of their twenty-five year career. The highly anticipated new body of work SOLDIER OF LOVE features 10 new songs including the latest single, “Soldier Of Love”.

Here I Am Marvin Sapp, CD 781.642 NEL 2010 – An original member of Commissioned, Marvin Sapp is one of Gospel music’s most recognizable voices to date. In 2007, his fourth solo release Thirsty became a Gold Certified success, spurred on by the history-making lead single “Never Would Have Made It”. “Never Would Have Made It” was named the longest running #1 single at radio across all genres, spending more than 40 weeks in the top spot. Marvin’s new release Here I Am is a live recording that showcases the raw vocal abilities of the “pastor who sings”. The first single, “The Best In Me”, is already being hailed as an inspirational classic.

Volume Two She & Him, CD 781.66 SHE 2010 – What began as a fascinating, no-strings-attached collaboration on 2008’s Volume One has evolved into a bona fide, touring band, and She & Him are here to stay. Zooey Deschanel and Matt Ward are a comfortable and complementary musical pair; hearing them again on Volume Two feels like getting together with two old friends. This time, the harmonies have grown more angelically layered, the string arrangements more dramatic, the songwriting even sharper and more confident. All songs (except 4 and 7) written by Zooey Deschanel. Produced by M. Ward.

Slash Slash, CD 781.66 SLA 2010 – “Slash”, Slash’s first solo release, is a collection of new songs written in partnership with some of the most notable and legendary artists in music. After first enlisting the services of producing partner Eric Valentine (Queens of Stone Age, The All-America n Rejects), Slash compiled a premier rhythm section in bassist Chris Chaney (Jane’s Addiction) and drummer Josh Freese (Nine Inch Nai ls). The album features an all-star roster of guest musicians including Ian Astbury of The Cult, Chris Cornell, Rocco DeLuca , Fergie, Dav e Grohl, Myles Kennedy of Alterbridge, Kid Rock, Lemmy Kilmeister of Motorhead, Ada m Levine of Maroon 5, Duff McKaga n, M. Shadows of Avenged Sevenfold, Ozzy Osbourne, Iggy Pop, and Andrew Stockda le of Wolfmother. Slash handled the majority of arranging and song writing duties and handpicked each guest artist to collaborate with on rounding out each track.

The Cricket’s Orchestra Meaghan Smith, CD 781.63 SMI 2009 – The Cricket’s Orchestra, the full-length debut album from acclaimed Canadian musician Meaghan Smith, is the follow-up to Smith’s highly acclaimed 2008 EP The Cricket’s Quartet, which The Washington Post declared as ”…one of the best finds of late ’08.”

Tonight TobyMac, CD 781.7 TOB 2010 – TobyMac’s new record TONIGHT is the highly anticipated follow up to the best-selling album Portable Sounds. Continuing Toby’s unique ability to blend musical influences TONIGHT has an amazing mix of rock, pop, urban and hip hop sounds and styles. It features the smash hit single “City On Our Knees”

True Blood Original TV Soundtrack, CD 781.546 TRU 2009 – Elektra Records and HBO have joined forces to put together a riveting collection of songs that connect TRUE BLOOD fans with the hit HBO series. The TRUE BLOOD soundtrack includes the show theme song ‘Bad Things’ by Jace Everett and features artists such as C.C Adcock, Lucinda Williams, Ryan Adams, Allen Toussaint, The Legendary Shack Shakers, The Watson Twins and more. The songs featured on the soundtrack were included in Season 1 of the series.

Raymond v. Raymond Usher, CD 781.643 USH 2010 – 2010 release, the seventh album from the multi-million selling R&B artist. Following the success of his platinum selling 2008 release Here I Stand, Raymond v Raymond takes you on a journey through the dichotomy of man. Raymond v Raymond opens up another chapter of Usher’s coming of age as he tells the story of balancing the challenges of day to day life as an evolving man while jumping back on the scene as a sex symbol and fearless superstar entertainer. With the help of some of the biggest producers in music including Polow Da Don, Jim Jonsin (Lollipop), Danja (Sober), and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Raymond v Raymond is sure to paint a vivid portrait of growth, triumph, defeat and happiness.

In the Dark The Whigs, CD 781.66 WHI 2010 – With their stunning third album, In The Dark, The Whigs have gone widescreen. Bursting with energy, emotion, and unpredictable experimentation, the Athens, GA-based trio tear open the artistic envelope, bringing both nuance and eclectic strength to songs like ‘Hundred/Million’ and the raucous first single, ‘Kill Me Carolyne’. In The Dark is both atmospheric and ambitious, without losing the pedal-to-the-metal power that earned them universal praise as one of America’s finest young Rock ‘n’ Roll bands. Both an accessible album and one that captures the band’s on-stage passion (something that has become synonymous with the band’s live show), In The Dark reveals another layer in the band’s songwriting and highlights what fans and critics have fallen in love with.

Under Great White Northern Lights The White Stripes, CD 781.66 WHI 2010 – In the summer of 2007, shortly after the release of their 6th album ‘Icky Thump’, The White Stripes headednorth of their hometown of Detroit to embark on an ambitious journey across Canada. White called upon filmmaker Emmett Malloy to come and document this trek for the band. Malloy had directed videos for the band in the past, and seemed eager to hit the road with them. Equipped with a couple of 16mm cameras, and a few other documenting devices, the band and crew all headed north. The end result was ‘Under Great White Northern Lights’. ‘Under Great White Northern Lights’ is a visual and emotional feature length film documenting The White Stripes making their way through Canada and culminating with their 10th anniversary show in Nova Scotia. The film documents the band playing shows all over Canada; from local bowling alleys, to city buses, and onward to the legendary Savoy Theater for the 10th Anniversary show.

I Got Your Country Right Here Gretchen Wilson, CD 781.642 WIL 2010 – Multi-Platinum recording artist Gretchen Wilson exploded onto the country music scene with her smash hit Redneck Woman and has since scored three No 1 albums with ‘Here for the Party’, ‘All Jacked Up’ and ‘One of the Boys’. She recently left her long time record label home at Sony music and started her own Redneck Records label. Her first single, Work Hard, Play Harder, is reminiscent of the music that first brought her to national and international prominence. Her first album on Redneck Records is entitled ‘I Got Your Country Right Here’ and will hit stores March 30, 2010.

IrmCharlotte GainsbourgCD 781.63 GAI 2009January 26th, 2010 marks the Because Music / Elektra release of Charlotte Gainsbourg’s third studio album titled IRM. The title is derived from M.R.I, which reflects the medical procedure Charlotte had to go through after suffering a head injury in a water skiing accident in 2007. The album is Charlotte’s most personal to date, and is produced by acclaimed Grammy nominated artist/multi-instrumentalist Beck.

New Releases on DVD – March and April 2010

According to Greta

Dumped on her grandparents (Ellen Burstyn and Michael Murphy) for the summer by her indifferent mother (Melissa Leo), acerbic and self-destructive teenager Greta (Hilary Duff) disrupts the elderly couple’s staid life on the Jersey Shore in this coming-of-age melodrama. But eventually, a romance with a charming short-order cook (Evan Ross) and the unconditional love of her grandparents help Zoe face down her demons. Rated PG-13

Adam

When beautiful teacher Beth (Rose Byrne) moves into a nearby apartment, strangely awkward Adam (Hugh Dancy), who suffers from Asperger’s syndrome, breaks through his limited social abilities and flirts with the young woman in this moving romance. Beth responds to Adam’s unusual courtship, and as they overcome the obstacles to intimacy, they learn how to face life’s other challenges. Max Mayer directs, while Peter Gallagher and Amy Irving co-star. Rated PG-13

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel

Alvin (voiced by Justin Long), Simon (Matthew Gray Gubler) and Theodore (Jesse McCartney) are back, along with their careworn manager, Dave (Jason Lee), and this time they have competition: The Chipettes (Anna Faris, Christina Applegate and Amy Poehler), hired by Dave’s nemesis, Ian Hawke (David Cross). Cameron Richardson, Zachary Levi and Wendie Malick also lend their voice talents for this good-time live-action/CGI sequel. Rated PG

Bad Lieutenant

Corrupt Det. Terence McDonaugh (Nicolas Cage) — whose bad habits include pain drugs, reckless sports gambling and accepting sexual bribes — investigates the murder of five Senegalese illegal immigrants in New Orleans. Co-starring Val Kilmer as McDonaugh’s partner, Xzibit as drug supplier Big Fade and Eva Mendes as prostitute Frankie Donnenfield, director Werner Herzog’s action drama is a loose update of Abel Ferrara’s 1992 film, Bad Lieutenant. Rated R

Birdie & Bogey

Birdie urges her father, Danny, to once again play on the PGA tour. But just when things are going well, Birdie’s life is threatened by a deadly disease and Danny must find the strength to carry on. Cast: Janine Turner, Mike Norris, Carey Scott, Sheree J. Wilson, Amanda Alch. Not Rated

The Blind Side

Oversized African American Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), the teen from across the tracks and a broken home, has nowhere to sleep at age 16. Taken in by an affluent Memphis couple, Leigh Anne (Sandra Bullock) and Sean (Tim McGraw), Michael embarks on a remarkable rise to play for the NFL. Bullock’s performance garnered a Best Actress Oscar nomination and Best Actress Golden Globe Award. Kathy Bates co-stars. Rated PG-13

The Box

A disfigured NASA employee named Arlington Steward (Frank Langella) informs Norma (Cameron Diaz) and Arthur (James Marsden) Lewis that they have 24 hours to decide if they want to push a button inside a box that will give them a cool million — but a complete stranger will die at the same time. Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko) writes and directs this thriller based on sci-fi writer Richard Matheson’s short story. Rated PG-13

Brothers

When severely traumatized Capt. Sam Cahill (Golden Globe nominee Tobey Maguire) returns home alive from a military mission in Afghanistan after he was presumed dead, he learns that his brother, Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal), has gotten dangerously close to his grieving wife, Grace (Natalie Portman), and his kids. Mare Winningham and Sam Shepard also star in this wartime drama about human frailty and battles fought on the home front. Jim Sheridan directs. Rated R

Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant

Things get freaky fast for 16-year-old Darren Shan (Chris Massoglia) when his friend (Josh Hutcherson) takes him to a circus that’s chockfull of sideshow oddities. There, he meets vampire Larten Crepsley (John C. Reilly) and receives a life-changing bite on the neck. As the newest member of the mysterious Cirque du Freak troupe, Darren keeps company with Madame Truska (Salma Hayek) and sparks a war between the vampires and their rivals. Rated PG-13

Cold Souls

Paul Giamatti stars as himself, an actor in the throes of anxiety over an upcoming performance — until he gives his soul to a mysterious company that promises to freeze and store it until he wants it again, along with his anxieties. But when his soul goes missing, Giamatti embarks on a journey to track it down. Along the way he learns a thing or two about engaging every human emotion, however difficult. Sophie Barthes directs. Rated PG-13

The Damned United

Arrogant Brian Clough (Michael Sheen) helms England’s soccer champs Leeds United in 1974 alongside confidant and assistant manager Peter Taylor (Timothy Spall), but he manages to bungle the deal in a mere 44 days, winding up fired. Written for the screen by Peter Morgan (The Queen, Frost/Nixon) and based on David Peace’s critically acclaimed novel, this fictionalized account of the notorious sports legend co-stars Jim Broadbent. Rated R

Did You Hear About the Morgans?

After witnessing a murder, high-powered — and estranged — wife Meryl (Sarah Jessica Parker) and husband Paul (Hugh Grant) Morgan must say good-bye to sophisticated Manhattan when they enter the witness protection program together and land in Wyoming. At odds, they attempt to adjust to small-town life in this charming comedy that also stars Sam Elliott, Mary Steenburgen and Elisabeth Moss. Marc Lawrence (Two Weeks Notice) writes and directs. Rated PG-13

An Education

Jenny’s (Oscar nominee Carey Mulligan) Oxford-bound teen life is undistinguished in 1961 London until she’s given a different kind of education after being immersed in the beguiling but hazardous world of cultured and much-older David (Peter Sarsgaard). Even Jenny’s father, Jack (Alfred Molina), is intrigued by him, but her school’s unimpressed headmistress (Emma Thompson) works to keep Jenny’s entire future from crumbling under David’s influence. Rated PG-13 (2009)

The Fantastic Mr. Fox

When Mr. Fox’s nightly raids on three nearby farms raise the ire of the selfish farmers, he must outwit the men’s increasingly outrageous plans to catch him in this animated adaption of the Roald Dahl book. As the farmers’ schemes take a toll on his hungry family, Mr. Fox must find a new way to get his paws on the bounty. Wes Anderson directs, and George Clooney and Bill Murray lend their voice-over talents in this Oscar nominee. Rated PG

The Informant

While gathering evidence against his employer, ADM in Decatur, Ill., to help the FBI build a price-fixing conspiracy case, wealthy, affable executive Mark Whitacre (Matt Damon, in a Golden Globe-nominated role) begins to piece together a fantasy world of his own. Based on Kurt Eichenwald’s acclaimed nonfiction book about a true-life Corporate America whistle-blower, Steven Soderbergh’s dark comedy co-stars Scott Bakula, Joel McHale and Melanie Lynskey. Rated R

Men Who Stare at Goats

Journalist Bob Wilton (Ewan McGregor) latches onto an unbelievable story in Iraq when he meets Lyn Cassady (George Clooney), a man of mysterious origins who reveals he was a “warrior monk” trained by the U.S. Army to develop psychic powers. Jeff Bridges co-stars as Lyn’s mentor, the man who dreamed up the top-secret operation. Kevin Spacey and Rebecca Mader co-star in this Grant Heslov-helmed wild spoof. Rated R

Motherhood

Financially strapped Eliza Welch (Uma Thurman) wants to throw her 6-year-old daughter a great birthday party, but all of Manhattan, her goofy dog, and her 2-year-old dynamo of a son seem to be conspiring against her. Besides the pressure of the party, Eliza must battle an invasive film crew, fend off a flirtatious messenger boy and keep up appearances at the playground. Katherine Dieckmann directs; Minnie Driver and Anthony Edwards co-star. Rated PG-13

New Moon

In this sequel to Twilight directed by Chris Weitz (American Pie), Forks, Wash., resident Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) is reeling from the departure of her vampire love, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), and finds comfort in her friendship with Jacob Black, a werewolf (Taylor Lautner). But before she knows it, she’s thrust into a centuries-old conflict, and her desire to be with Edward at any cost leads her to take greater and greater risks. Rated PG-13

Old Dogs

On the verge of a game-changing business deal, a divorced dad (Robin Williams) and his womanizing best friend and partner (John Travolta) are thrown for a loop when they’re tasked with caring for a rambunctious pair of 6-year-old twins. Helmed by Walt Becker, this family comedy also stars Seth Green, Kelly Preston, Matt Dillon, Rita Wilson and Bernie Mac, in his final big-screen appearance. Rated PG

The Other Man

Over dinner, Peter’s (Liam Neeson) wife, Lisa (Laura Linney), essentially reveals that she’s been cheating on him — and then disappears the following day. Obsessed with learning the details, Peter tracks down Ralph (Antonio Banderas), Lisa’s lover. Believing Ralph doesn’t know who he is, Peter plays little games with him in an effort to quell his own despair. Rated R

Pirate Radio

In 1966, hard-partying British DJs have the time of their lives running a radio station on a ship in the North Sea, broadcasting generation-defining (but banned) music to millions. The crew includes Quentin (Bill Nighy), the Count (Philip Seymour Hoffman), Gavin (Rhys Ifans) and Dave (Nick Frost). But they face getting shut down by Sir Alistair Dormandy (Kenneth Branagh). Richard Curtis (Love Actually, Four Weddings and a Funeral) directs. Rated R

Precious

Viciously abused by her mother (a riveting, Oscar-winning Mo’Nique) and pregnant by her father, Harlem teen Precious Jones (Oscar nominee Gabourey Sidibe) has an unexpected chance at a different life when she enrolls in an alternative school. Teacher Blu Rain (Paula Patton) encourages her, but Precious must battle unimaginable barriers everywhere in her life. Lee Daniels directs this drama that features appearances by Mariah Carey and Lenny Kravitz. Rated R

Princess and the Frog

Down in New Orleans during the fabulous Jazz Age, young Princess Tiana (voice of Anika Noni Rose) searches for true love and comes face-to-face with snooty debutante Charlotte (Jennifer Cody), ancient voodoo priestess Mama Odie (Jennifer Lewis) and the evil Dr. Facilier (Keith David). But with the help of her mother (Oprah Winfrey), a crooning alligator and other friends, Tiana’s fairy-tale dreams may come true after all in this Oscar nominee. Rated G

The Private Lives of Pippa Lee

When her husband (Alan Arkin), who’s 30 years her senior, relocates the family to a retirement community, flawless wife and mother Pippa Lee (Robin Wright Penn) slides toward a nervous breakdown as she reflects on her tumultuous past and befriends her neighbor’s enigmatic son (Keanu Reeves). With a powerful cast that also includes Julianne Moore and Winona Ryder, this pensive drama is adapted from director Rebecca Miller’s novel of the same name. Rated R

A Serious Man

Larry Gopnik (Golden Globe nominee Michael Stuhlbarg) has hit a “rough patch,” according to a colleague, and it would seem so: people are dropping dead all around him, his wife (Sari Lennick) wants a “get” and his whining kids (Aaron Wolff and Jessica McManus) only add to the heavy load. Larry is just looking for some help. Can a few rabbis guide him to life’s answers? Richard Kind co-stars in Joel Coen and Ethan Coen’s 1960s-set, dark Jewish-culture send-up.

Serious Moonlight

When Louise (Meg Ryan) discovers that her husband, Ian (Timothy Hutton), is about to run off to Paris with a much younger woman, Sara (Kristen Bell), she does what any self-respecting wife would do: She duct-tapes him to the toilet, which is where he remains when their home is burglarized. Rated R

Sherlock Holmes

Robert Downey Jr., in a Golden Globe-winning role, stars as the legendary London sleuth Sherlock Holmes, joined by Jude Law as Dr. Watson, in this Guy Ritchie-helmed reinvention of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective series. Based on a comic book by producer Lionel Wigram, the story follows Holmes and Watson as they face off against the villainous Blackwood (Mark Strong). Rachel McAdams co-stars as sharp beauty Irene Adler. Rated PG-13

2012

When typhoons, earthquakes and other disasters suddenly threaten to destroy the world, Jackson (John Cusack), his estranged wife, Kate (Amanda Peet), and others surmise that the secret may lie in ancient Mayan prophecies that describe global calamity in the year 2012. Roland Emmerich co-writes and directs a star-studded ensemble cast that also includes Thandie Newton, Oliver Platt, Woody Harrelson, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Danny Glover. Rated PG-13

Up in the Air

Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) racks up miles flying around the country firing employees on behalf of companies. But he faces losing the job he savors to recent college grad Natalie Keener (Anna Kendrick) — and losing the ability to escape emotional ties to anything. A connection he builds with Alex Goran (Vera Farmiga), however, might change his outlook on the future. Golden Globe winner Jason Reitman’s smart comedy also stars Jason Bateman. Rated R

Where The Wild Things Are

Max (Max Records) imagines running away from his mom and sailing to a far-off land where large talking beasts — Ira, Carol, Douglas, the Bull, Judith and Alexander — crown him as their king, play rumpus, build forts and discover secret hideaways. Producer Tom Hanks and director Spike Jonze bring Maurice Sendak’s whimsical story to life; James Gandolfini, Catherine Keener, Forest Whitaker and Catherine O’Hara lend their talents. Rated PG

New DVDs: TV Series, Nonfiction and Feature Length Films – March and April 2010

All That Jazz

Bob Fosse’s autobiographical film celebrates the raunchy underbelly of show business. Successful director-choreographer Joe Gideon (Roy Scheider) is at the top of the Broadway heap. But he stands powerless as his world slowly collapses around him; his obsession with work has almost destroyed his personal life, and only his bottles of Dexedrine keep him going. Soon, it’s clear Gideon will have to make a choice — his art or his life. (1979) Rated R

An Angel for May

When Tom (Matthew Beard), a boy living in contemporary Yorkshire, is swept through a time warp with his dog, he arrives in World War II-era England and meets May (Charlotte Wakefield), a girl suffering from the trauma of losing her family during a bomb strike. As Tom tries to find his way back to his own time, the two form a bond that teaches both some important lessons. Tom Wilkinson co-stars in this heartwarming family drama. (2002) Not Rated

The Belle of Amherst

Julie Harris reprises her Tony Award-winning Broadway role as 19th century American poet Emily Dickinson in this one-woman interpretation of the great literary figure’s life. Against the backdrop of Dickinson’s 19th century Amherst, Mass., home, Harris declaims from the reclusive poet’s poems, letters and diaries to offer a delicate portrait of the artist as both a real human being and long-suffering genius. (1976) Not rated

Big Love: The Complete Third Season

After a tumultuous year that saw the Hendrickson family exposed as polygamists — and Roman (Harry Dean Stanton) exposed as the snitch — Bill (Bill Paxton) and his trio of wives (Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloë Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin) have regrouped for a third season of this Best Drama Emmy nominee. Roman has been arrested; his son (Matt Ross) has stepped in to fill his shoes; and Barb has joined the board of the family business. TV-MA

Billy Elliot

When 11-year-old Billy Elliot (Jamie Bell) trades boxing school for ballet lessons, his father (Gary Lewis) — a hardworking miner from Northern England who despises the idea of his son running around in toe shoes — is less than pleased. But when the boy wins an audition for the Royal Ballet School, he experiences a change of heart. Stephen Daldry directs this Oscar-nominated drama that spawned a Tony-winning Broadway musical of the same name. (2000) Rated R

The Bridges of Madison County

When her family is off at the state fair, vaguely discontented Iowa housewife Francesca Johnson (Meryl Streep) meets National Geographic shutterbug Robert Kincaid (Clint Eastwood), who’s in Madison County to shoot Iowa’s covered bridges. What begins as a guarded friendship soon erupts into an intense affair that rekindles Francesca’s forgotten passions. But she finds her emotions in conflict when the time comes to choose her future. (1995) Rated PG-13

Broken Arrow

When rogue stealth-fighter pilot Vic Deakins (John Travolta) deliberately drops off the radar while on maneuvers, the Air Force ends up with two stolen nuclear warheads — and Deakins’s co-pilot, Riley Hale (Christian Slater), is the military’s only hope for getting them back. Traversing the deserted canyons of Utah, Hale teams with park ranger Terry Carmichael (Samantha Mathis) to put Deakins back in his box. But can they pull it off? (1996) Rated R

A Chorus Line

Based on the smash hit Broadway musical with a score by Marvin Hamlisch and starring Michael Douglas, A Chorus Line tells the story of a group of young dancers auditioning for a part in a new show. It includes such song hits as “What I Did for Love,” “Dance 10, Looks 3” and “At the Ballet.” The stage version won many Tony Awards and even a Pulitzer Prize. (1985) Rated PG-13

Easter Parade

Judy Garland and Fred Astaire sing and trip the light fantastic to 17 Irving Berlin tunes in this romantic classic. The simple plot concerns a hoofer (Astaire) who teams with an inexperienced chorus girl (Garland) in order to show up his former dance partner, Nadine (Ann Miller). Berlin’s tunes, which include “We’re a Couple of Swells” and “Happy Easter,” sparkle in Astaire and Garland’s able hands (and feet). Peter Lawford co-stars. (1948) Not Rated

Fargo

Frances McDormand won an Oscar for her turn as pregnant police chief Marge Gunderson — a serious sleuth who’s sharper than her folksy accent suggests — in this black comedy. William H. Macy co-stars as a car dealer who conspires with hotheaded kidnappers (Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare) to kidnap his wife (Kristin Rudrüd) so he can pocket part of the hefty ransom. (1996)  Rated R

Five Easy Pieces

Jack Nicholson, a promising concert pianist, chucks it all to work on a California oil rig.  Years later he returns home to confront the cultured and dysfunctional family he left behind when he learns his father is ill.  (1970) Rated R

For Me and My Gal

Judy Garland puts Gene Kelly (in his MGM screen debut) through his musical paces in this tuneful delight about a couple of vaudeville hoofers on the rise. But things go inconveniently dark when America enters World War I and Kelly gets his draft notice to report for duty. Will he dodge the draft now that stardom is just within reach? Includes the title tune (a great duet for Judy and Gene) and “Ballin’ the Jack.” Busby Berkeley directs. Not rated (1942)

G.I. Jane

Ridley Scott directs this intense look at Lt. Jordan O’Neil (Demi Moore), a Navy topographer chosen as a litmus test for women in combat. O’Neil enters the elite but punishing Navy SEALs force — though with its 60% dropout rate, no one actually expects her to succeed. Watch as a steely-nerved and tightly muscled Moore attempts to prove everyone wrong. Viggo Mortensen co-stars as a crusty instructor who dishes out the grueling training regime. (1997) Rated R

Glee: Season One, Volume One: Road to Sectionals

High school Spanish teacher Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) agrees to take over the school’s glee club, whose misfit members are eager to reverse the group’s reputation as the worst in the country. Featuring several musical numbers in each episode, the Golden Globe-winning series also stars Chris Colfer as drama queen Kurt, Amber Riley as diva Mercedes, Cory Monteith as quarterback Finn and Lea Michele as perfectionist Rachel. Vol. 1 includes the first half of Season 1.

Goodnight Mister Tom

Bitter old Tom Oakley (John Thaw) is transformed after taking in young war refugee William Beech (Nick Robinson), who’s evacuated to Tom’s village during the London blitz in this affecting Masterpiece Theatre adaptation of Michelle Magorian’s novel. Ill-tempered Tom grudgingly agrees to harbor Willie and slowly coaxes the cheerless boy from his shell as the two form an unlikely bond. But Willie’s joy is shattered when his mother beckons him home. Not Rated

A Greater Yes: The True Story of Amy Newhouse

After climbing Pampa High School’s popularity chain, taking her volleyball team to the state championship, and founding the school’s first drug-, alcohol- and violence-free club, Amy Newhouse must now fight the biggest battle of her life — cancer. Not Rated (2008)

Herb and Dorothy

Chronicling the story of unlikely art collectors Herb Vogel and Dorothy Vogel, filmmaker Megumi Sasaki demonstrates that it’s not necessary to be wealthy in order to build a significant collection in this fascinating documentary. A postal clerk and a librarian, the Vogels share a passion for art, which they pursued over decades, becoming two of the most important collectors of minimalist and conceptual art with more than 4,000 pieces.

The Hex: The Complete First Season

Shy teenager Cassie (Christina Cole) dreams of hanging out with the popular kids at her British boarding school, but has to make due with her best friend and fellow outcast, Thelma (Jemima Rooper). Everything changes, however, when Cassie discovers she’s descended from an ancient supernatural clan and is drawn into a dangerous yet intriguing world. Michael Fassbender, Amber Sainsbury and Jamie Davis co-star in this gothic fantasy from England. (2004) Not Rated

Inside the Pentagon

The Pentagon is the military nerve center of the United States, reaching out to far-flung battlefields with information, technology and a culture that permeates more of America and the world than many realize. This National Geographic documentary depicts the Pentagon’s 58-year history, taking viewers into the restricted inner workings of the Pentagon, and includes coverage of the response following the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. (2002)

Ironweed

Jack Nicholson and Meryl Streep star in this moody Depression-era drama about Francis Phelan, a former pro baseball player haunted by his past and now living the squalid life of a nomadic drunk. Crippled by guilt and sorrow, Phelan reunites with his erstwhile lover and drinking pal (Streep) on the bleak streets of 1938 Albany, N.Y. Hector Babenco directs this Oscar-nominated adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by William Kennedy. Rated R (1987)

Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?

In this engaging discussion on moral and political philosophies, professor and author Michael Sandel invites you into his Harvard University classroom to spark debate on long-standing beliefs about democracy, equality, justice and more. A popular course at Harvard, Justice applies the philosophies of Aristotle, Kant and others to modern-day dilemmas such as same-sex marriage, affirmative action, surrogate motherhood, loyalty and human rights. (2009)

The Last Brickmaker in America

Haunted by the death of his wife and the obsolescence of his life’s work, brickmaker Henry Cobb’s (Sidney Poitier) existence is invigorated when he becomes the unexpected mentor to a troubled 13-year-old boy (Cody Newton). Helmed by Gregg Champion, this touching made-for-television drama also stars Jay O. Sanders and Wendy Crewson as Danny’s self-centered parents, Mike and Karen Potter. Rated PG (2001)

A Leap of Faith

Rick and Lindsay meet at a rehabilitation camp for the blind, they each have a challenge to overcome.  Lindsay is coping with blindness, and Rick must prove that he can be trusted.  Although they clash at first, it isn’t long before they are leaning on each other for strength. Not rated (1995)

Lost Episodes of Victor Borge: Volume 1

Lost Episodes of Victor Borge: Volume 2

Victor Borge in all his glory, these are comedy routines from Borge’s TV specials never before released on home video.

Lovejoy: The Complete Season Six

Sharp-eyed antiques dealer and sleuth Lovejoy (Ian McShane) has his hands full in the sixth and final season of this popular BBC mystery series, which finds both Charlotte (Caroline Langrishe) and Tinker (Dudley Sutton) disappearing in separate instances. Lovejoy also runs afoul of a loan shark, searches for a priceless samurai sword, tangles with the police yet again, and finds himself torn between two women.  Not Rated

Lovejoy: The Christmas Specials

Even shady antiques dealers have to deal with Christmas, and Lovejoy (Ian McShane) is no exception. But when it involves a savage attack, a hunt in Prague and a mission to clear a name in North Carolina, holiday cheer takes on a whole new meaning. (1992 and 1993) Not Rated

Mrs. Winterbourne

Pregnant 18-year-old Connie (Ricki Lake) has been kicked out by her boyfriend. On a train, she meets Hugh Winterbourne (Brendan Fraser) and his pregnant wife, Patricia (Ricki Lake again). When the train wrecks and Connie wakes up in the hospital — mistaken for the widowed Patricia — Hugh’s mother (Shirley MacLaine) takes her in. Playing along with the charade, Connie soon falls in love with Hugh’s twin brother, Bill (Brendan Fraser again).  Rated PG-13 (1996)

Prizzi’s Honor

Jack Nicholson stars as dim-bulb Mafia hit man Charley Partanna, who falls hard for sultry freelance killer-for-hire Irene Walker (Kathleen Turner). But the lovebirds are facing double trouble: The woman Charley jilted — Maerose Prizzi (Anjelica Huston), the don’s daughter — desperately wants her man back, and Irene happens to have pilfered a boatload of Prizzi dough! Huston snagged a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her venomous portrayal. Rated R (1985)

Pulp Fiction

A burger-loving hit man (John Travolta), his philosophical partner (Samuel L. Jackson), a drug-addled gangster’s moll (Uma Thurman) and a washed-up boxer (Bruce Willis) converge in this sprawling, comedic crime caper fueled by director and co-writer Quentin Tarantino’s whip-smart dialogue. Their adventures unfurl in three stories that ingeniously trip back and forth in time, resulting in one of the most audacious and imitated films of the 1990s. Rated R (1994)

The Sixth Day

Ah-nuld” is back and brawnier than ever! This time, Schwarzenegger is a helicopter pilot who finds himself on the “To Do” list of a murderous tycoon (Tony Goldwyn). The good news is that the hit gets botched. The bad news is that Goldwyn has cloned Arnold, who must fight to get his life back. An action-packed spin on the ethical quandary of cloning, The 6th Day is future-perfect. RatedPG-13 (2000)

Smart Start Yoga

Instructors, Rodney Yee and Colleen Saidman use several guided chair and standing yoga poses as well as a seated meditation session to help restore calm and can be used anywhere at anytime.

Something to Sing About

Tommy (Darius McCrary) worries that he’ll never get a break. An ex-con with the voice of an angel, Tommy finds his luck changing when Memaw (Irma P. Hall), a kindly grandmother who hears him singing one day, takes him in. Soon, he’s found God, lands a job and has a chance for his big singing break. He’s also caught the eye of Memaw’s beautiful granddaughter. But Tommy’s old friend doesn’t believe he’s changed, and he must fight for his new life. Not Rated (2000)

Sophie’s Choice

Aspiring author Stingo (Peter MacNicol) shares a Brooklyn boarding house with winsome Polish émigré Sophie (Meryl Streep) and her mercurial lover, Nathan (Kevin Kline) — a union unsettled by Nathan’s violent behavior and Sophie’s disturbing recollections of her wartime experience. Stingo uncovers the truth about Sophie, however, when her accounts of her stint at a Nazi concentration camp unravel, laying bare the real source of her torment. Rated R (1982)

Station Jim

Train station porter Bob Gregson (Charlie Creed-Miles) finds a stray dog he dubs Station Jim. Soon, the pup is a favorite among the local orphanage children. So when the orphanage is threatened by closure, Station Jim must help save the facility with a few dog tricks of his own. But can Jim do all this and foil a plot against the queen? Laura Fraser and Thomas Sangster co-star in this family film set in Victorian England. Not Rated (2001)

Vanilla Sky

David Aames (Tom Cruise) has it all: wealth, good looks and a gorgeous woman (Cameron Diaz) on his arm. But just when he’s found true love with warmhearted Sofia (Penélope Cruz), his face is horribly disfigured in a car accident, and he loses everything … or does he? Director Cameron Crowe delivers a bizarre yet beautiful take on love, beauty and morality inspired by Alejandro Amenábar’s Spanish-language film Open Your Eyes, also starring Cruz. Rated R (2001)

The Warrior 

After venturing into China on a diplomatic mission, a group of Korean envoys is captured, accused of espionage and sent to a remote desert to die. Refusing to accept their fate, they make their way back to Korea. That journey leads to the rescue of a beautiful Ming princess (Ziyi Zhang) and a fierce battle with bloodthirsty Mongol warriors. Sung-su Kim directs this lavish production, one of the most expensive in the history of Korean film.     Rated R (2001)

Windows 7  for Dummies

Teaches how to use Windows 7, including how to keep track of files, create music CDs, fix common problems, and customize a Windows 7 desktop. (2009)

Yanks

Acclaimed director John Schlesinger stages this epic romance across the dramatic backdrop of World War II. Stationed in England at the end of the war, three American soldiers (Richard Gere, William Devane and Chick Vennera) find romance with three local women: Jean Moreton (Lisa Eichhorn), Helen (Vanessa Redgrave) and Mollie (Wendy Morgan). Jazz fans should keep an eye out for singer Annie Ross in a brief role as a bus driver. Rated R (1979)