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

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series Six

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

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series 7

Another Country

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

A Bridge too Far

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

Champagne Charlie

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

The Decades Collection 1900 -1909

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

The Decades Collection 1910 – 1919

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

The Decades Collection 1920 – 1929

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

The Decades Collection 1930 – 1939

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

The Decades Collection 1940 -1949

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

The Decades Collection 1950 – 1959

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

The Decades Collection 1960 – 1969

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

The Decades Collection 1970 – 1979

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

The Decades Collection 1980 – 1989

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

The Decades Collection 1990 -1999

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

Gattaca

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

A Gentleman’s Game

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

Good Neighbors

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

The Lords of Flatbush

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

The Mary Tyler Moore Show: The Complete Fourth Season

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

Onegin

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

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

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

Possession

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

The Presidents

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

The Prince of Tides

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

Sally Hemings: an American Scandal

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

The Tudors: Season 2

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

New DVD Releases – January 2009

January 15, 2009November 29, 2022Richelle

Angels in the Dust

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

Burn After Reading

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

The Duchess

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

The House Bunny

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

My Tale of Two Cities

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

The Women

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

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

December 31, 2008November 29, 2022Richelle

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series One

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

All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series Five

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

Black Adder: The Complete Collector’s Set

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

Charlotte Gray

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

First Knight

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

The Gift

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

The Green Berets

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

The Horseman on the Roof

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

Inside the Green Berets

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

Radio Flyer

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

State of Play

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

The Train Robbers

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

Walk Away the Pounds with Leslie Sansone

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

More New DVD Releases – December 2008

December 31, 2008November 29, 2022Richelle

Mamma Mia!

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

The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor

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

War, Inc.

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

New Music CDs – December 2008

December 18, 2008November 29, 2022Richelle

100 Greatest Film Themes (6 CD SET) Various Artists, CD 781.542 0NE 2007 – CD 1, 1939-1961, CD 2, 1962-1968, CD 3, 1968-1978, CD4, 1979-1990, CD 5, 1990-1998, CD 6, 1999-2006.

Have A Nice Decade: The ’70s Pop Culture Box Various Artists, CD 781.63 HAV 1998 – For anyone who grew up during the last days of AM radio, anyone who remembers gas shortages, disco scarves, and feathered hair, this mammoth seven-disc box set, Have a Nice Decade: The 70s Pop Culture Box, will be a holy grail of nostalgia. First of all, the discs themselves contain a staggering 164 tracks. Basically, if you remember the song, it’s probably included: from enduring chestnuts even today’s teenagers can sing (“Fire and Rain,” “Fly Like an Eagle”) to obscure gems of kitsch like “The Night Chicago Died” and the supremely maudlin “Billy Don’t Be a Hero.” If you were born in the 1960s, you’ll probably find this stuff enjoyable rather than embarrassing (to the degree that you can think back on your adolescence without cringing). But don’t let the music distract you from the packaging, either. The box is covered in avocado-green shag carpeting (embroidered with a happy-face pattern), and the booklet contains photos of all the artists, essays on the politics and culture of the period, and capsule references to notable events, fads, and people. Only Rhino Records could have put out a reissue package of music, images, and text this perfect.

Complete Studio Recordings Led Zeppelin, CD 781.66 LED 1993 – This 10-CD set contains all nine Led Zeppelin studio albums as originally sequenced.

Like, Omigod! The ’80s Pop Culture Box Various Artists, CD 781.63 LIK 2002 – You want your ’80s! Fer sure! This is the mother of all tributes to the era of skinny ties, Reaganomics, and Pac-Man! Seven CDs, 142 hit songs, from New Wave to Pop to R&B to Hip-Hop to Novelty, including an incredible 49 #1 tracks! Starring Queen, New Edition, Duran Duran, Richard Marx, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Men At Work, Toto, The Cure, Culture Club, Cyndi Lauper, Bryan Adams, Simple Minds, Bangles, New Kids On the Block…and many more. Plus a 90-page book with hundreds of historical photos, facts, and memories from the decade that wanted it all!

Indiana Jones: The Soundtracks Collection John Williams, CD 781.542 IND 2008 – Includes remastered versions of Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade –expanded to include previously unreleased music — as well as the original Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull soundtrack. PLUS A BONUS CD WITH EVEN MORE PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED MUSIC AND FEATURING INTERVIEWS WITH JOHN WILLIAMS,STEVEN SPIELBERG AND GEORGE LUCAS ON THE MAKING OF THIS HISTORIC MUSIC. RELIVE THE MUSICAL ADVENTURE TODAY!

New DVD Releases – December 2008

December 16, 2008November 29, 2022Richelle

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

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

The Dark Knight

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

Fred Claus

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

Hancock

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

The Happening

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

Horton Hears a Who

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

Journey to the Center of the Earth

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

Man on Wire

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

The Perfect Holiday

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

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

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

Step Brothers

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

This Christmas

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

Wall-E

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

Wanted

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

The X Files

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

You Don’t Mess with the Zohan

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

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

December 16, 2008November 29, 2022Richelle

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Seven

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

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Eight

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

‘Allo ‘Allo: The Complete Series Nine

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

Byron

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

Count Dracula

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

Mulberry: The Complete Series

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

30 Rock Season 1

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

More Christmas CDs

December 11, 2008November 21, 2013Richelle

A Midwinter Night’s Dream Loreena McKennitt, CD 781.723 MCK 2008 – On her first full-length holiday album, Loreena celebrates the season with a CD that blends the five songs from A Winter Garden (1995) with eight new recordings inspired by seasonal favorites. 13 tracks including ‘The Holly & The Ivy’, ‘Good King Wenceslas’, ‘Seeds Of Love’, ‘Coventry Carol’ and more.

NOW Essential Christmas Various Artists, CD 781.723 ESS 2008 – THE ESSENTIAL NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL CHRISTMAS presents 25 of the most beloved holiday favorites from some of the greatest music artists of all-time, all on one CD.

Christmas Duets Elvis Presley, CD 781.723 PRE 2008 – Elvis’ most cherished holiday classics reinterpreted by today’s biggest female stars with Elvis Presley! The album features ‘Blue Christmas’ with Martina McBride, ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ with Carrie Underwood, ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ with LeAnn Rimes, ‘Santa Clause Is Back In Town’ with Wynonna Judd ‘Silent Night’ with Sara Evans, ‘White Christmas’ with Amy Grant plus Gretchen Wilson, Karen Fairchild & Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town, Anne Murray, Olivia Newton-John and three Bonus Tracks.

What A Night! A Christmas Album Harry Connick Jr., CD 781.723 CON 2008 – Holidays with Harry and his 2008 release, What A Night! A Christmas Album. Harry Connick, Jr. is an accomplished singer, pianist, and actor who emerged in the late 1980s as a Sinatra-style crooner for a new generation. As a musician, his influences include Bebop, New Orleans Jazz, and big-band swing. His score for the film When Harry Met Sally brought him national acclaim and an Oscar. He has appeared in many films and he is known for his Pop music as well.

And Winter Came Enya, CD 781.723 ENY 2008 -Twenty years after her landmark Watermark album, Enya’s seventh studio disc, And Winter Came continues a phenomenally successful career that has included more than 70 million albums sold worldwide. And Winter Came is an enchanting evocation of the changing landscape of winter as well as the festive cheer of the holidays. One of the most successful female artists of all-time, and second only to U2 as the biggest selling Irish artist in history, Enya brings her beguiling and ethereal music to bear on the darkest and yet most hopeful season with And Winter Came.

Playlist Plus: A Very Special Christmas Various Artists, CD 781.723 VER 2008

Time-Life Music: Treasury of Christmas – Holiday Memories Various Artists,CD 781.723 TIM 2002 -America’s Favorite Christmas Collections. This special edition of The Time-Life Christmas is based on the multi-million-selling collection The Time-Life Treasury of Christmas, as seen on TV. This 2 CD album features your favorite songs, all original recordings, all original artists, and digital mastering for the best sound quality.

New Music CDs – December 2008

December 8, 2008November 21, 2013Richelle

Prospekt’s March Coldplay, CD 781.66 COL 2008

Paper Trail T.I., CD 781.649 T. I. 2008

A Twist In My Story Secondhand Serenade, CD 781.66 SEC 2008

808s & Heartbreak Kanye West, CD 781.63 WES 2008

Day & Age The Killers, CD 781.66 KIL 2008

Safe Trip Home Dido, CD 781.66 DID 2008

Hit Man [LIVE]David Foster & Friends, CD 781.63 FOS 2008781.66 TV 2008

Night Ripper Girl Talk, CD 781.66 GIR 2006

Secret Diary Girl Talk, CD 781.66 GIR 2006 leCD 781.66 GIR 2004

Soul Seal, CD 781.66 SEA 2008

That Don’t Make Me a Bad Guy Toby Keith, CD 781.642 KEI 2008

The Greatest Songs Of The EightiesBarry Manilow, CD 781.63 MAN 2008

Brad PaisleyPlayCD 781.642 PAI 2008

Ray LaMontagne Gossip In The GrainCD 781.66 LAM 2008

New Books on CD – December 2008

December 6, 2008November 21, 2013Richelle

Against Medical Advice James Patterson and Hal Friedman – The best selling novelist presents his first nonfiction title with the story of Cory Friedman, a young man who endured years of suffering with Tourette’s syndrome.

Ahead of the Curve: Two Years at Harvard Business School Philip Delves Broughton – A Harvard MBA has been the golden ticket to American business. The author relates his educational experiences.

The Beach House Jane Green – When she learns she may lose her beloved house, Nantucket resident Nan takes out an ad — rooms to rent for the summer.

Black & White and Dead All Over John Darnton – New York police detective Priscilla Bollingsworth investigates the death of a merciless local newspaper editor.

The Bodies Left BehindJeffery Deaver – A night time call to 911 brings Brynn McKenzie to a scene of horror and a forced flight into the woods of Wisconsin.

Change Your Brain, Change Your Life Daniel G. Amen – The author states that anxiety, depression, anger and obsessiveness can be controlled by healing your brain.

The Christmas Sweater Glenn Beck – When 13-year-old Eddie receives a Christmas sweater instead of bicycle he is very disappointed. Later after his mother’s death, the sweater is all Edie has to remind him of her.

The Condition Jennifer Haigh – The McKotch family is devastated upon learning about the medical condition of their only daughter.

The Dark Side: The Inside Story of How the War on Terror Turned into a War on American IdealsJane Mayer – The decisions made following the events of September 11, 2001 will continue to affect America is the coming years.

Devil May Care Sebastian Faulks writing as Ian Fleming – A new James Bond thriller written to celebrate the centenary of Ian Fleming’s birth.

The Gate House Nelson DeMille – The author returns to the fabled Gold Coast of Long Island and the changing world of ultra-WASP, John Sutter.

The Given Day Dennis Lehane – At the end of World War I, America was a country torn by political and civil unrest. This sweeping novel centers on the events surrounding the Boston Police Strike of 1919. Starred reviews.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows – A wonderful story about a unique book club that became an alibi to protect its members from arrest by the Germans during WWII.

I See You Everywhere Julia Glass – The complex bond between sisters is explored in this tale of conscientious Louisa and iconoclastic Clem.

Havana Nocturne: How the Mob Owned Cuba…and Then Lost it to the Revolution T.J. English – The true tale of organized crime and political corruption that preceded the Cuban Revolution.

Heat Lightning John Sandford – The author’s latest outing features Minnesota investigator Virgil Flowers and a disturbing series of murders.

Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution—and How It Can Renew AmericaThomas L. Friedman – The noted author of The World Is Flat looks at America’s loss of focus and the global environmental situation and how these two problems are linked.

Hot Mahogany Stuart Woods – Stone Barrington is enjoying a quiet meal at Elaine’s when he is drawn into the cutthroat world of priceless antiques.

The Laughter of Dead Kings Elizabeth Peters – Vicky Bliss is back! The beautiful and brainy art historian/sleuth is in Egypt searching for solutions in the mysterious Valley of the Kings.

Legally Dead Edna Buchanan – U.S. Marshal Michael Venturi has a nightmare situation when a relocated government witness terrorizes a small town.

The Lucky One Nicholas Sparks – On a tour of duty in Iraq, U.S. Marine Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a young woman that changes his life.

A Most Wanted ManJohn Le Carré – Issa, a young Russian man smuggled into Hamburg, meets up with Annabel, a civil rights lawyer, and Tommy Brue, as they become victims of rival intelligence operations in the War on Terror.

My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey Jill Bolte Taylor – The author, a brain scientist, experienced a massive stroke at the age of 37. She shares her perspective on the brain and its capacity for recovery.

Rough Weather Robert B. Parker – Spenser is a bodyguard at a society wedding when his nemesis, Gray Man, guns down guests and kidnaps the bride.

Tailspin Catherine Coulter – Psychologist Timothy MacLean is in danger of being killed by a former patient.

This Land is Their Land: Reports from a Divided Nation Barbara Ehrenreich – A satirical take on class disparities in the United States.

The War Within: A Secret White House History 2006-2008 Bob Woodward – The author’s fourth book about the Bush administration takes the reader through the highest levels of decision-making at the White House, Pentagon and State Department.

We Are Soldiers Still: A Journey Back to the Battlefields of VietnamHarold G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway – The author of We Were Soldiers Once… And Young, revisits his relationships with ten American veterans as well as a Vietnamese general and two of his commanders.