The Counterfeiters
Germany, 1936. Salomon “Sally” Sorowitsch is the king of counterfeiters. He lives a life of cards, booze, and women. Suddenly his luck runs dry when he is arrested by Superintendent Friedrich Herzog. He is immediately thrown into the Mauthausen concentration camp. There, Salomon exhibits exceptional skills and is soon transferred to the upgraded camp of Sachsenhausen. Upon his arrival, he once again comes face to face with Herzog, who is there on a secret mission. Hand-picked for his unique skill, Salomon and a group of professionals are forced to produce fake foreign currency under the program Operation Berhard. The team, which also includes detainee Adolf Burger, is given luxury barracks for their assistance. Salomon attempts to weaken the economy of Germany’s opponents. But, Adolf refuses to use his skills for Nazi profit and would like to do something to stop the operation. Now faced with a moral dilemma, Salomon must decide whether his actions are ultimately the right ones. Awards: Oscar – Best Foreign Language Film of the Year. Language: German, English, Hebrew, Russian or dubbed French dialogue, English, French or Spanish subtitles. Cast: Karl Markovics, August Diehl, Devid Striesow, Marie Bäumer, Martin Brambach, Dolores Chaplin. Based on the book The Devil’s Workshop by Adolf Burger. Rated: R
New Releases on DVD – August 2008
Stargate Continuum
Ba’al travels back in time and prevents the Stargate program from being started. SG-1 must figure out how to restore history. Richard Dean Anderson, William Devane, Beau Bridges. Not Rated
Documentaries and Nonfiction Films – August 2008
Attenborough in Paradise: and Other Personal Voyages
A collection of seven of David Attenborough’s celebrated nature programs. Topics covered include: the courtship displays of birds in New Guinea; the “music” of the wild; David Attenborough’s career as a nature filmmaker.
Earth: The Biography
Earth is an incredible, exceptional planet with an amazing life story full of cataclysmic disasters, eleventh-hour coincidences that save it from extinction, and an astonishing power to continually regenerate. Uses breathtaking footage and special imaging to tell the story of the great forces that shape the planet – volcanoes, the ocean, the atmosphere and ice. Traveling from Ethiopia’s unique lava lake to an ice cave under a glacier in Greenland and amazing locations in between, examine the forces that have helped create and foster life on Earth. Narrator, Iain Stewart.
Originally broadcast on the BBC in 2007.
Found in China: A Documentary
A group of six Midwestern families with Chinese adoptive daughters take a heritage trip to China. The documentary focuses on the 9- to 13-year old girls and their feelings about being adopted as they learn about the culture of their homeland and the circumstances of their adoption.
Galápagos: the Islands that Changed the World
The inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galápagos Islands are a living laboratory, a geological conveyor belt that has given birth to and seen the death of many species of plants and animals. Narrated by Tilda Swinton. Originally broadcast on the British Broadcasting Corporation, 2006.
Incredible Britain
Join actor Robbie Coltrane as he shows viewers the back roads of London to Glasgow, stopping along the way to learn of some of the more interesting customs of the local people. Includes fun facts map and biography.
Life in Cold Blood
David Attenborough tells the epic story of the most enduringly successful animals to ever walk on land – reptiles and amphibians. The latest technology enables extraordinary and previously unseen behavior to be captured in intimate detail.
Life in the Freezer
Hosted by David Attenborough, this BBC-TV six-episode television series explores the landscape, wildlife, and underwater reaches of Antarctica.
Life in the Undergrowth
David Attenborough guides the viewer through a miniature universe teeming with life, never normally seen, yet all around us. New technology reveals surreal vistas and their extraordinary inhabitants.
The Life of Birds
David Attenborough journeys across seven continents filming thousands of species of birds, revealing their patterns of behavior.
New DVDs: Feature Length Films and TV Series – August 2008
Beau Brummell: This Charming Man
A look at the man who changed fashion during 18th century England, at a time when men wore heavy perfume, makeup, and wigs, by showing princes and lords how he felt a man should truly look. Cast: James Purefoy, Hugh Bonneville, Matthew Rhys. Based on Ian Kelly’s biography of Brummell.
Blue Murder: Set 3
Award-winning actress Caroline Quentin portrays Janine with the perfect combination of toughness and tenderness. And Ian Kelsey brings a subtle vulnerability to his role as DI Richard Mayne, the lead detective on Janine’s team. These tense, tightly plotted British mysteries show the everyday trials and triumphs of a woman balancing career and family.
Foyle’s War: Set Five
Michael Kitchen stars as DCS Christopher Foyle, investigating wartime crimes in an English coastal town. With the end of World War II slowly but inevitably approaching, Foyle and his fellow citizens learn the price of victory and face a peace that will transform their lives in unexpected ways.
Inspector Morse: Part 13 Sins of the Fathers
Real ale buff Inspector Morse is in his element when he investigates foul play at a family-run brewery. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, John Bird, Lisa Harrow, Alex Jennings, Betty Marsden, Paul Shelley, Kim Thomson, Trevor Martin, Paul Mooney, Simon Slater.
Inspector Morse: Part 14 Driven to Distraction
Morse’s investigations into the apparently motiveless murder of a young woman lead him to question his own driving ability and to consider selling his coveted Mark 2 Jaguar. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Patrick Malahide, David Ryall, Christopher Fulford, Mary Jo Randle and James Grout.
Inspector Morse: Part 15 Masonic Mysteries
Morse is top of the list of suspects when his lady friend is found murdered. Even the loyal Sergeant Lewis has to admit that all the clues point to Morse when Beryl Newsome is stabbed at a dress rehearsal for the local drama society’s production of the Magic Flute. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Madelaine Newton, Diane Fletcher, Richard Kane, Ian McDiarmid,Iain Cuthbertson, James Grout.
Inspector Morse: Part 17 Fat Chance
Romance threatens the well-ordered life of Inspector Morse when he is attracted to a female cleric whilst investigating the suspicious death of a young woman deacon. A strong candidate to become the first female chaplain of St. Saviour’s College in Oxford, the victim had a vociferous group of supporters. But could the strong feelings surrounding the campaign have developed into murder? Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Maurice Denham, Zoe Wanamaker, Maggie O’Neill, Kenneth Maig, James Grout, Caroline Ryder and Peggy Mount.
Inspector Morse: Part 18 Who Killed Harry Field?
Harry Field was an artist, a raconteur, a drinker, and not averse to forging the odd painting. When he is mysteriously killed, Morse takes over the investigation and is plunged into the arty world of Harry’s Bohemian friends. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Geraldine James, Nicola Cowper, Freddie Jones, Ronald Pickup.
Inspector Morse: Part 19 Greeks Bearing Gifts
The Greek community in Oxford closes ranks when a Greek restaurant chef is found dead and a baby goes missing. Morse feels more at home with Oxford’s other Greek connection – the classical scholars – and surprisingly discovers there could be a link between the two worlds. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Jan Harvey, Martin Jarvis, James Hazeldine, James Faulkner.
Inspector Morse: Part 21 Dead on Time
When an elderly Don apparently commits suicide, Inspector Morse is called in and finds he has a personal involvement in the case. The wife of the dead man is the woman Morse was engaged to be married to years ago. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Richard Pasco, Joanna David.
Inspector Morse: Part 24 Absolute Conviction
Bailey, Thornton and Cryer were eighties entrepreneurs until it was found that they had stolen millions of pounds from their investors. All three are serving sentences in the same prison where Cryer is found dead in his cell. It looks like a heart attack but the pathologist’s report quickly points to murder. Morse and Lewis go behind bars to investigate but must tread carefully with the prison governor. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Richard Wilson, Sean Bean, Diana Quick.
Inspector Morse: Part 25 Cherubim & Seraphim
When Morse visits his stepmother and half-sister, he finds himself in the middle of a tragedy. His stepniece has committed suicide. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Isla Blair, Sorcha Cusack, Jason Isaacs, John Junkin, James Grout.
Inspector Morse: Part 26 Deadly Slumber
Avril Steppings is permanently brain damaged after a minor operation. When the doctor who runs the clinic that treated Avril is murdered, Inspector Morse has an immediate suspect, Avril’s father. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Brian Cox, Penny Downie, Janet Suzman.
Inspector Morse: Part 27 The Day of the Devil
Chief Inspector Morse matches wits with a dangerous escaped mental patient who is a master of disguise. Morse also has to deal with growing Satanism in Oxfordshire. He is helped in the hunt by his psychiatrist, who appears to be a target. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, James Grout, Harriet Walter, Richard Griffiths, Keith Allen, Gilly Coman.
Inspector Morse: Part 29 The Way through the Woods
The Lovers Lane Killer is dead. The man accused of murdering five people has himself been killed in a prison fight before his trial. The body of Karen Anderson, supposedly the killer’s fifth victim, was never found. Although her bag was recovered at the bottom of the lake at Blenheim, Morse is convinced that Karen’s remains are in Wytham Woods. When a body is discovered at Blenheim, Morse and Sergeant Lewis are on the case. Will the woods at Wytham yield up their secrets to Morse and Lewis? Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Malcolm Storry, Neil Dudgeon, Michelle Fairley, James Grout, Nicholas Le Prevost, Clare Holman.
Inspector Morse: Part 30 The Daughters of Cain
Suspects abound after the murder of Dr. Felix McClure and so do their alibis. A retired university Fellow is stabbed to death in cold blood and Inspector Morse and Sergeant Lewis are plunged back into the heart of Oxford’s academic world. An apparent routine investigation for the two detectives is complicated as they unravel a story of undergraduate suicide, drugs in college and the dismissal of a college scout. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, James Grout, Gabrielle Lloyd, Phyllis Logan, Amanda Ryan, Tony Haygarth, Benjamin Whitrow.
Inspector Morse: Part 32 The Wench Is Dead
On a June morning in 1859, the body of a young woman was found by the Oxford Canal. In the present day, recovering after an operation in hospital, Morse is visited by Adele Cecil and American scholar Millie Van Buren whose book on the murder becomes his preoccupation. Morse soon becomes convinced that the two boatmen publicly hanged for the murder of the respectably married Joanna Franks were the victims of a gross miscarriage of justice. Inspector Morse is joined by Adrian Kershaw, a young graduate police constable, who assists him in his investigations. Cast: John Thaw, Judy Loe, Lisa Eichhorn, Matthew Finney, James Grout, Clare Holman.
Inspector Morse: Part 33 The Remorseful Day
In this last Morse dramatization, an ailing Inspector Morse returns to work to investigate new evidence that has surfaced regarding the brutal murder of the agreeably flirtatious nurse who attended to him when he was in the hospital. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Paul Freeman, T. P. McKenna, Clare Holman, Anna Wilson-Jones, Jesse Birdsall, James Grout.
Lord Peter Wimsey: The Nine Tailors
Twenty years after visiting East Anglia, Lord Peter Wimsey (Ian Carmichael) is stranded there after an auto mishap. When a mutilated body is found on the estate, Wimsey discovers a connection to the jewels that were stolen 20 years before. The full picture eludes him until a natural disaster strikes and the nine church bells that signal death in a country town ring out. DVD release of the original 1974 BBC drama seen on PBS’ Masterpiece theatre. Based on the novel by Dorothy L. Sayers.
Mother Teresa
In a powerful portrayal Golden Globe-winner Olivia Hussey illuminates the life story of Mother Teresa the selfless missionary who brought hope love and salvation to the poorest of the poor. A shrewd diplomat and an indomitable force Mother Teresa is unwilling to accept what others deem impossible fearlessly fighting for the unloved and the forgotten. Her good works transcend hardships and ultimately earn her international acclaim including the Nobel Peace Prize. The small miracles and humble triumphs of Mother Teresa will inspire you in this poignant tale of a modern-day saint.
Porterhouse Blue
Set in a fictional, all-male Cambridge college this movie aims it’s barbs at aristocrats, politicians, and TV reporters as well as academics. Based on the novel by Tom Sharpe. Originally broadcast as single episodes of the TV series in 1987. Cast: Ian Richardson and David Jason.
Smallville: The Complete Fourth Season
Clark Kent will have plenty of reasons to remember senior year! Clark embarks on a quest for three Kryptonian crystals, and trying to keep the crystals from destroying Earth. He also stars on the football team, and the annoying Lois Lane comes to Smallville. Cast: Tom Welling, Kristin Kreuk, Michael Rosenbaum, Jensen Ackles, Allison Mack, John Glover, Annette O’Toole, John Schneider.
Smallville: The Complete Fifth Season
During this exciting pivotal season: Clark faces rogue Kryptonians, Lex Luthor launches a vicious political campaign, the Fortress of Solitude rises, Clark’s love for Lana Lang deepens and he and Lois Lane remain friendly adversaries, Clark crosses paths with AC (aka Aquaman), Victor Stone (aka Cyborg) and the mysterious Milton Fine (aka Brainiac). Cast: Tom Welling, Kristin Kreuk, Michael Rosenbaum, Erica Durance, Allison Mack, John Glover, Annette O’Toole, John Schneider.
Smallville: The Complete Sixth Season
They tried to be friends, but their chosen paths set them on a collision course. The Clark Kent-Lex Luthor rivalry explodes into the fierce good-versus-evil battle. Cast: Tom Welling, Kristin Kreuk, Michael Rosenbaum, Erica Durance, Allison Mack, John Glover, Annette O’Toole. Originally broadcast on television during the 2006-2007 season.
Stargate Atlantis: The Complete First Season
A secret base built by the Ancients is found in the ice in Antarctica. The Stargate Atlantis team is sent on a one-way mission to explore the distant Pegasus galaxy. The team encounters many new civilizations, including the sinister Wraith. Cast: Joe Flanigan, Torri Higginson, Rachel Luttrell, Rainbow Sun Francks, David Hewlett, Paul McGillion.
New Fiction – September 2008
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.
The Betrayal: The Lost Life of Jesus Kathleen O’Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear – An alternate story of the life of Jesus, with notes and a bibliography.
Breath Tim Winton – On the wild coast of western Australia, two boys fall into the thrall of Sando, a big-wave surfer.
The Condition Jennifer Haigh – The McKotch family is devastated upon learning about the medical condition of their only daughter.
The Court of the Air Stephen Hunt – Fantasy and adventure merge in this tale of two orphans, Molly Templar and Oliver Brooks, as they battle to save civilization.
Death Angel Linda Howard – Drea Rousseau flees from crime boss boyfriend, Rafael Salinas, but after taking part of his fortune with her, can she hide?
December Elizabeth Hartley Winthrop – This emotional portrait of a family in crisis, features 11-year-old Isabelle who inexplicably stopped speaking nine months earlier.
Enlightenment Maureen Freely – Social and political complexities along with murder and espionage are featured in this tale of modern Turkey.
Exiles Ron Hansen – In December 1875 the steamship Deutschland ran aground in the Thames estuary. This shipwreck greatly affected the poet, Gerard Manley Hopkins.
Fearless Diana Palmer – Trouble and temptation clash in the Texas town of Jacobsville.
The Franchise Babe Dan Jenkins – Jack Brannon, golf writer, is bored with the men’s professional golf tour, and so he begins covering the LPGA and young Ginger Clayton, the franchise babe.
Gossip of the Starlings Nina de Gramont – As one reviewer writes: “You want a story about prep school? This is a story about prep school.”
House Rules Mike Lawson – Joe DeMarco, secret troubleshooter for the Speaker of the House, is sent on a quest for the truth after two foiled terrorist attacks and a new law is passed targeting Muslims.
The Island of Eternal Love Daina Chaviano – Alone in Miami, Cecilia yearns for the island she left behind. A story of Cuba.
The Law of Second ChancesJames Sheehan – Convict Henry Wilson has eight weeks to live, but will Jack Tobin, a Florida trial lawyer, decide to work on his case?
Mistress of the Sun Sandra Gulland – A fascinating look at the life of Louise de la Valliere as she becomes the mistress of Louis XIV.
Morality Tale Sylvia Brownrigg – The perils and pleasures of a second marriage are portrayed in this comic novel.
My Sister, My Love: The Intimate Story of Skyler Rampike Joyce Carol Oates –The prolific author tells the story of a family that is quite similar to a recent infamous case.
No Choice but Seduction Johanna Lindsey – Danger and intrigue await Katey Tyler on her grand tour of Europe written by a “master of historical romance.”
No One You Know Michelle Richmond – A family drama that focuses on the search for a sister’s killer that leads to secrets, revelations, and damaged lives.
Palace Council Stephen Carter – A political thriller set during the era of Watergate and the Vietnam War written by a highly regarded author.
Promise of the Wolves Dorothy Hearst – Many generations ago, wolves and still-evolving humans communicated and hunted together. Then everything changed and war began.
The Richest Season Maryann McFadden – After more than a dozen moves in 25 years of marriage, Joanna Harrison is lonely and tired of being a corporate wife. Faced with another move, she runs away to Pawleys Island, South Carolina.
Say Goodbye Lisa Gardner – Kimberly Quincy, FBI Special Agent, is searching for a serial killer who may not even exist.
Secrets of a Shoe Addict Beth Harbison – Four friends are in need of thousands of dollars, and fast. The secret that kept Sandra’s shoe addiction alive may be the perfect plan.
Silent Thunder Iris Johansen and Roy Johansen – An American maritime museum has acquired a former Soviet submarine. Is it a trap? Marine architect Hannah Bryson investigates.
The Sister Poppy Adams – Two sisters, reclusive Ginny and her younger sister Vivien meet again after nearly fifty years.
Sweet Love Sarah Strohmeyer – A novel about the power of love … and desert.
This Charming Man Marian Keyes – Four women explore how their love for one man, the debonair Paddy de Courcy, has shaped their lives.
Valfierno: The Man Who Stole the Mona LisaMartin Caparrós – On August 22, 1911, the world was shocked to learn that the Mona Lisa had been stolen from the Louvre. A fictional version of the real life crime.
New Music CDs – Summer 2008
Click on Titles to order from the Library Catalog.
All Sides O.A.R., CD 781.66 OAR 2008
O.A.R. has come to stand for authentic Rock music that reflects the collective triumphs and tragedies we all experience is this world: Real people making real music that resounds deeply with their fans. The songs on this album showcase every facet of the band and it’s musical tastes which led to calling the album ‘All Sides’.
Classical Barbra Barbra Streisand, CD 782.42 STR 1976
One of Barbra Streisand’s more esoteric projects, Classical Barbra is an album of European art songs composed by Debussy, Handel, Schumann, and others and sung in French, German, Latin, Italian, and English. Streisand is in typically good voice, and while the album must have been a stretch for her usual audience and a surprise to the classical audience, she carries the performances off.
Crayons Donna Summer, CD 781.63 SUM 2008
Summer helped to define the 70’s pop music generation and Crayons has all the characteristics that made Donna an icon. Containing a potent mix of the up-tempo tunes and ballads, the new album showcases incredible new material that is written by Donna (who wrote or co-wrote the majority of her hits of the 70’s and 80’s). Working with Donna were renowned writers and producers including: Greg Kurstin (Lilly Allen, Pink), Danielle Brisebois (Natasha Bedingfield, New Radicals), JR Rotem (Sean Kingston, Rihanna), Evan Bogart (co-writer of Rihanna’s smash “SOS” and the son of legendary record executive, Casablanca Records founder and Donna’s mentor, Neil Bogart), and Lester Mendez (Shakira, Santana).
The Dark Knight Various Artists, CD 781.542 ZIM 2008
Soundtrack album for the 2008 Batman movie, The Dark Knight. Music composed by Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard. The Dark Knight is an American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Batman. The film is a sequel to 2005’s Batman Begins, which rebooted the Batman film series after an eight-year hiatus. Actor Heath Ledger stars as The Joker.The CD contains 14 tracks of powerful punches of Batman’s adventures of good vs evil.
Esperanza Esperanza Spalding, CD 781.63 SPA 2008
Esperanza, bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding’s debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more. Esperanza is joined in the studio by a crew of A-list session players, including flamenco guitar virtuoso Niño Josele, percussionist Jamey Haddad, drummer Horacio “El Negro” Hernández, saxophonist Donald Harrison and several other seasoned talents – all of whom collectively serve as further evidence of the kind of creative energy and magnetism that she radiates.
Forgiven Los Lonely Boys, CD 781.66 LON 2008
Forgiven is the third album from Grammy Award winning multi platinum artist Los Lonely Boys. This album was produced by Steve Jordan (John Mayer). Forgiven is the follow up to Sacred which debuted at #2 on the Billboard charts in July 2006. The album’s first single ‘Staying With Me’ premiered on May 5th Cinco De Mayo. Los Lonely Boys are a rock band from San Angelo, Texas. They play a style of music which they dub as Texican Rock n’ Roll, combining elements of Rock’N’Roll, Blues, Soul, Country, and Tejano.
Greatest Hits: Every Mile a Memory Dierks Bentley 2003-2008, CD 781.642 BEN 2008
Five years, five #1 hits, six Grammy nominations, and one CMA Horizon Award later, Platinum-selling country superstar Dierks Bentley brings you a collection of his fan’s favorites on Greatest Hits/Every Mile A Memory 2003-2008. The compilation features ten of Dierks’ most recognizable hits, two brand new songs, and five live songs selected exclusively by his fans! Dierks has given his loyal fans creative control of this project, allowing them to handpick the content of the album, cover art, and the album title. Participating fans will then have their names listed in the liner notes of the project as executive producers. Dierk says, ‘I can’t think of a better way to get my fans involved than to have them actually act as executive producers of this record’.
Joshua Tree U2, CD 781.66 U2 1987
Having nearly exhausted their capacity for pop-song politics on War and The Unforgettable Fire, U2 turned toward themes of personal identity and complex relationships on The Joshua Tree. Not that the group was willing to come down off the barricades entirely: “Mothers of the Disappeared” and “Bullet the Blue Sky” turned a jaundiced eye toward Central America and the United States’ role there. But the predominant mood here is one of self-discovery and the hunger for something more on tracks like the pulsating “Where the Streets Have No Name” and the gospel-ish “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” The album’s masterstroke, however, is “With or Without You,” a nasty love song dressed up as an ode of devotion and care. It ranks with the Police’s “Every Breath You Take” as the most misread smash hit of the ’80s.
Julianne Hough Julianne Hough, CD 781.642 HOU 2008
Julianne Hough is already known to millions of fans as the two-time professional dance champion on ABC-TV’s top-rated Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). The show, which pairs professional dancers with music, sports, film and television celebrities, has become a cultural phenomenon and Julianne its top star. Julianne’s debut album is a compelling collection of songs about the joys and challenges of everyday life delivered by an evocative young voice.
Lay It Down Al Green, CD 781.643 GRE 2008
Lay It Down with 11 tracks by Al Green. Friends laying it down with Al Green are Anthony Hamilton on the opening album title track and on ‘You’ve Got the Love I Need’. Corinne Bailey Rae sings with Al on ‘Take Your Time’ and John Legend joins in on ‘Stay With Me (By The Sea)’.
Life, Death, Love & Freedom John Mellencamp, CD 781.66 MEL 2008
The man who has been called `the poet laureate of the interstate’ has reached deep into his soul, bringing forth an album of unparalleled maturity powered by a piercing musical vision. Produced by T Bone Burnett (“O’ Brother Where Art Thou,” Robert Plant, Allison Krauss)
Love on the Inside Sugarland, CD 781.642 SUG 2008
Mercury Nashville’s super duo Sugarland will release their third studio album entitled, Love On The Inside, July 29. Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush co-wrote all tracks and have teamed up with Byron Gallimore again to produce.
Loverly Cassandra Wilson, CD 781.65 WIL 2008
Long considered one of the finest singers in the jazz world, Cassandra Wilson’s new album is a tour de force of emotion, technique, interpretation and style as she brings her considerable powers to this collection of classic songs. Once again she has gathered a band of shining talent, featuring the brilliant Jason Moran on Piano with guitarist Marvin Sewell and Lonnie Plaxico on bass – a band that is so good together that Cassandra was happy to sit in the producer’s chair and let the songs speak for themselves. Featuring incredible interpretations of the classics like Black Orpheus, Caravan, and The Very Thought of You, Cassandra is one of the few singers that can genuinely re-invent a song that we all think we know, such as Wouldn’t It Be Loverly and turn it breathe new emotional life into it. However, the standout track has to be the stunning funky, soulful, brooding St. James Infirmary which has become a staple of her live set.
Modern Guilt Beck, 781.63 BEC 2008
The new album contains 10 new songs, and with the exception of last year’s Grammy-nominated, digital-only single “Timebomb”, Modern Guilt is the first new material Beck has written since the prolific stretch that produced 2005’s platinum Guero and 2006’s universally acclaimed The Information. Modern Guilt is a tightly assembled group of songs that range in lyrical tone from introspection and social commentary to off the cuff wordplay and lighthearted humor. Musically, the album’s ten tracks vacillate between economy and experimentation, hybrid and pop classicism, while consistently manifesting Beck and Danger Mouse’s shared interest in psych-rock, folk, electronic minimalism and orchestration.
Pearl Janis Joplin, 781.66 JOP 1999
Janis Joplin made the blues her own. Though she didn’t live to finish this album before her 1970 death from a heroin overdose, her intense passion and frantic cries of pain and ecstasy were enough to make Pearl one of the most memorable recordings of her era. Her band does fill up some vinyl with the instrumental “Buried Alive in the Blues,” but it’s the vocals that make this album worth hearing these many decades later. Listen to the tortured heartbreak of “Cry Baby” or the hopeful declarations of Kris Kristofferson’s “Me & Bobby McGee” and understand why Joplin remains an essential, if tragic, figure in pop. This reissue of Joplin’s final album includes four live bonus tracks recorded during the 1970 Canadian Festival Express Tour.
Stone of Sisyphus (XXXII) Chicago, 781.66 CHI 2008
Formed in its namesake city in 1967, Chicago is the first American band ever to propel albums into Billboard®’s pop Top 40 for five consecutive decades, and is among the most successfully charting U.S.-grown acts of all time. Now, another page in the band’s history is revealed with the long-awaited release of Stone Of Sisyphus, the once shelved album that has attained legendary status among fans and critics alike. Recorded in 1993 and originally intended as Chicago XXII, the disc marked a return to the genre-transcending, adventurous fusion of sounds that defined the group’s 1970s-era heyday. Three tracks from it surfaced on Rhino’s 2003 Chicago box, but the album itself is previously unissued—now, this momentous release also features four incredibly rare bonus tracks.
Taylor Swift Taylor Swift, 781.642 SWI 2008
Three years ago, a 13-year old Taylor Swift set out to be a star and moved from Reading, Pennsylvania, to Nashville. By 14, she had a publishing deal, and by 15, a recording contract. In these days of Bianca Ryan (and before her, Tanya Tucker and LeAnn Rimes), many are called, but few are chosen. Swift, it appears, is one of the chosen ones. Her vocal talent is modest, though sweetly affecting, her style seemingly influenced by the radio hits of early Sheryl Crow and Michelle Branch, and perhaps Cyndi Thomson. And at times, her youthfulness shows–she encoded messages in the lyrics of her CD booklet, starting with the name of the boy who cheated on her from “Should’ve Said No” (the album’s strongest offering). But in writing or co-writing all 11 songs on this debut, Swift demonstrates remarkable maturity, particularly in crafting a hooky, radio-ready chorus.
Temptation: Music from the Showtime Series Californication Various Artists, 781.546 TEM 2007
Album contains twenty tracks of music from Californication, the Showtime 12-part series production created by Tom Kapinos and starring David Duchovny as Hank Moody, a troubled novelist whose move to LA and problems with his job complicate the relationships with his ex-girlfriend Karen (Natascha McElhone) and daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin).Songs featured are from The Rolling Stones, Peeping Tom, My Morning Jacket and The Doors plus several songs from the series.
25th Anniversary of Thriller Michael Jackson, 781.63 JAC 2008
The Biggest Album Ever just got bigger. The 25th Anniversary Edition of Thriller celebrates this ground-breaking album with 7 bonus tracks, six of which are previously unreleased. The new tracks include exclusive remixes from Kanye West, Fergie, will.i.am and Akon along with a previously unreleased track from the Thriller sessions, “For All Time,” newly mixed and mastered by Michael Jackson. Also included is a BONUS DVD with new, digitally restored versions of the three videos from the album as well as the Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking performance of “Billie Jean” on the “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” television special.
Where the Light Is John Mayer, 781.66 MAY 2008
Two CD set. This album captures the multi-Grammy Award winning, platinum selling singer and songwriter in the element where fans love him the most – Live on stage! The special concert includes three sets: an acoustic performance, a rare set with John Mayer Trio (with Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino), as well as a set featuring Mayer’s full band, all recorded during the night of December 8, 2007 at the Nokia Theater in LA. This album features the quintessential performer as an acoustic songwriter, electric guitar slinger, bluesman and vocalist. Highlights include many of Mayer’s biggest hits, ‘Waiting On The World To Change’ new interpretations of cover songs, ‘Free Fallen’ and a previously unreleased Mayer gem ‘In Your Atmosphere’.
Wow Hits 2008 Various Artists, 781.7 WOW 2007
The most in-demand record of the year is back WOW Hits 2008, A 2 CD set of the year’s top Christian artists and songs. For over 10 years now the Christian music industry has partnered together to bring fans the most impressive collection of hits available anywhere! WOW Hits 2008 is also a perfect gift for those new to the experience of Christian music.
New Nonfiction – July 2008
Against Happiness: In Praise of Melancholy Eric G. Wilson – Are Americans addicted to happiness? Are we supposed to always be happy?
April 4, 1968: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Death and How It Changed America Michael Eric Dyson – A review of the impact of the death of the leader whose last speech ended with, “I may not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight, that we as a people will get to the Promised Land.”
Bad Money: Reckless Finance, Failed Politics, and the Global Crisis of American Capitalism Kevin Phillips – Has the financial sector hijacked the American economy and put the country’s future at risk?
Bastard Tongues: A Trailblazing Linguist Finds Clues to Our Common Humanity in the World’s Lowliest Languages Derek Bickerton – The firsthand story of the scientific investigation of what language is, how it works, and how it passes from generation to generation.
The Blue Zone: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest Dan Buettner – The author relates nine lessons that can help individuals have a longer life.
Cancer on Five Dollars a Day* (*Chemo Not Included) How Humor Got Me Through the Toughest Journey of My Life Robert Schimmel – A stand-up comedian is confronted with stage III non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The Candy Bombers: The Untold Story of the Berlin Airlift and America’s Finest Hour Andrei Cherny – The saga of the men who made the Berlin Airlift a great military and humanitarian success.
The China Price: The True Cost of Chinese Competitive Advantage Alexandra Harney – How can China offer low prices on goods to the rest of the world?
Covert: My Years Infiltrating the Mob Bob Delaney – Currently an NBA referee, the author relates his tale as an undercover agent who infiltrated the New Jersey Mob.
Forward from Here: Leaving Middle Age—and Other Unexpected Adventures Reeve Lindbergh – As the author turns sixty, she reflects on what her mother, Anne Morrow Lindbergh, once described as “the youth of old age.”
The Great Arab Conquests: How the Spread of Islam Changed the World We Live In Hugh Kennedy – A readable history of the Islamic expansion that created an empire from Spain to China.
Girls Like Us: Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon and the Journey of a Generation Sheila Weller – Although these three women were the musical representatives of the girls who came of age in the 1960s, each artist is portrayed individually.
Havanas in Camelot: Personal Essays William Styron – A collection of the late author’s essays including the title essay about the cigar smoking President Kennedy.
Human Smoke: The Beginnings of World War II, the End of CivilizationNicholas Baker – A wide-ranging chronological look at the political and social landscape that gave rise to World War II .
In Arabian Nights: A Caravan of Moroccan Dreams Tahir Shah – Tahir travels across Morocco and collects traditional stories and reveals the layers of culture of which most visitors are unaware.
Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation Cokie Roberts – The story of early America’s influential women and their public roles and private responsibilities.
Liberty of Conscience: In Defense of America’s Tradition of Religious Equality Martha C. Nussbaum – Is the legacy of religious freedom that was a triumph of early American history in danger?
Maps and Legends: Reading and Writing Along the Borderlands Michael Chabon – Essays celebrating the creativity and verve of various authors and literary traditions.
Mistaken Identity: Two Families, One Survivor, Unwavering Hope Don Van Ryn – From a national news case, the story of two families whose daughters were misidentified and one was buried under the wrong name.
Pure Goldwater John W. Dean and Barry M. Goldwater, Jr. – The writings of the presidential candidate and an early leader of the conservative movement.
Reappraisals: Reflections on the Forgotten Twentieth Century Tony Judt – Today’s world is so unlike the world of even 20 years ago that we are now part of an “age of forgetting.”
Retribution: The Battle for Japan, 1944-45 Max Hastings – The final year of the Pacific war by a notable author.
Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death Irvin D. Yalom – An encouraging approach to the universal issue of mortality.
The Ten Most Beautiful Experiments George Johnson – Ten of the most fascinating experiments in the history of science are depicted by the New York Times science writer.
Time Bandit: Two Brothers, the Bering Sea and One of the World’s Deadliest Jobs Andy and Johnathan Hillstrand – Fishing in the Bering Sea is a lucrative, but deadly occupation. Two of the masters of this trade have been the focus of TV’s Deadliest Catch and relate the background story of their life’s work.
Twenty Chickens for a Saddle: The Story of an African Childhood Robyn Scott – When the author was 7-years-old, her family decided to move from New Zealand to a converted cowshed in rural Botswana.
Uncertain Peril: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Seeds Claire Hope Cummings – The stories behind the rise of industrial agriculture and plant biotechnology are related along with a description of the Arctic Doomsday Vault that houses millions of seeds.
The World that Made New Orleans: From Spanish Silver to Congo Square Ned Sublette – The remarkable tale of the New Orleans’ first century.
New Releases on DVD – July 2008
The Air I Breathe
In this powerful film, four very different people teetering on the edge of desperation are unexpectedly linked by their destinies. In search for happiness in a gritty urban world, brought to life are the stories of a clairvoyant gangster, a rising pop star, an unlikely bank robber and a doctor desperate to save the love of his life. Cast: Kevin Bacon, Julie Delpy, Brendan Fraser, Andy Garcia, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Clark Gregg, Emile Hirsch, Forest Whitaker. Rated R
The Bank Job
Based on the greatest heist in British history, small-time crook Terry Leather takes on a bank heist when an old friend offers him an inside track to the vault. Along with his hastily assembled team of low-rung criminals, Terry finds himself the target of ruthless mobsters, the police, government officials at the highest level, and even the royal family. Cast: Jason Statham, Saffron Burrows. Rated R
Bonneville
Faced with the decision of a lifetime, Arvilla Holden hijacks her two best friends and sets off in a vintage ’66 Bonneville convertible across the great American West to deliver her husband’s ashes to her step-daughter. What begins as a simple road trip for the trio, will end up becoming a chance to rediscover themselves, their friendship, the importance of promises and always living life to the fullest. Cast: Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, Joan Allen, Christine Baranski, Victor Rasuk, Tom Skerritt. Rated PG
Cassandra’s Dream
When a gambling debt and an expensive courtship place working-class brothers in a financial bind, a rich uncle offers them an out in exchange for committing murder. Cast: Hayley Atwell, Colin Farrell, Sally Hawkins, Ewan McGregor, Tom Wilkinson. Rated PG-13
Charlie Bartlett
When Charlie Bartlett moves to town, his honest charm and likability gives him the position as the resident ‘psychiatrist’ among Western Summit High’s students. Along with fellow student Murphy Bivens, Charlie dishes out advice and the occasional prescription to other students in need. Along the way, he decides to take some of his own advice. Cast: Anton Yelchin, Hope Davis, Kat Dennings, Robert Downey Jr., Tyler Hilton. Rated R
City of Men
Growing up in a culture of violence, Acerola and Laranjinha have become as close as brothers. When they find themselves on opposite sides of a gang war, the lifelong friends are forced to confront a shocking secret from their shared past. In Portuguese with optional English subtitles. Cast: Darlan Cunha, Douglas Silva, Jonathan Haagensen, Rodrigo dos Santos, Camila Monteiro, Naima Silva, Eduardo BR, Luciano Vidigal, Pedro Henrique Vítor, Vinicius Oliveira. Rated R
Cleaner
Single father and former cop Tom Carver has an unusual job– he cleans up crime scenes. But when he’s called in to sterilize a wealthy suburban residence after a brutal shooting, Carver is shocked to learn that he may have unknowingly erased crucial evidence, entangling himself in a dirty criminal cover up. Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Ed Harris, Eva Mendes. Rated R
Definitely, Maybe
A political consultant tries to explain his impending divorce and past relationships to his 11-year-old daughter. Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Isla Fisher, Derek Luke, Abigail Breslin, Elizabeth Banks, Rachel Weisz. Rated PG-13
Drillbit Taylor
Ryan, Wade and Emmit attend their first day of high school and immediately meet up with Filkins, the school bully who comes off like a little Hannibal Lecter. Before they become completely engulfed in Filkins’ reign of terror, they seek out some protection by placing an ad in Soldier of fortune magazine. Their best response and the cheapest comes from Drillbit Taylor, a down-on-his-luck soldier of furtune who lives a homeless existence on the beach. He enrolls them in a sort of physical and mental training, steeling them, and possibly himself, for the ultimate clash against the forces keeping them down. Cast: Owen Wilson, Leslie Mann, Danny McBride, Josh Peck. Rated PG-13
Flawless
Laura Quinn is an executive at the London Diamond Corporation who finds herself routinely stifled on the corporate ladder. Hobbs is an equally overlooked nighttime janitor with an intimate knowledge of the security system. Hobbs has a score to settle with the Corporation. Sensing Laura’s frustration, Hobbs convinces her to help him pull off an ingenious heist. Cast: Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Lambert Wilson, Joss Ackland. Rated PG-13
Flock
Erroll Babbage has spent his career tracking sex offenders, due to his abusive behavior against the sex offenders that he monitor’s, he is forced to an early retirement and has to spend his last eighteen days training his replacement Allison Lowry. When he links one of his deranged parolees to the disappearance of a local girl, he and his new partner must scour the S&M underground to find her before it’s too late. Cast: Richard Gere, Claire Danes, KaDee Strickland. Rated R
Fool’s Gold
A recently-divorced couple bicker and banter their way through an adventure packed undersea hunt as they search for the gold (and the diamonds, emeralds and rubies). Finn, in love with his ex-wife and in deep with gangster Bigg Bunny, has been searching for eight years when he gets a clue about the whereabouts of the Queen’s Dowry, a fabulous fortune that mysteriously disappeared in the Caribbean in 1715. Now, all he has to do is get the gold, get the girl and get going before Bigg Bunny gets him. Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Kate Hudson, Donald Sutherland, Ewen Bremner, Alexis Dziena, Kevin Hart, Ray Winstone. Rated PG-13
In Bruges
After finishing a big job, hit men Ray and Ken have been ordered to cool their heels in the storybook city of Bruges, Belgium. But since hit men make the worst tourists, they soon find themselves in a life-and-death struggle of comic proportions against one very angry crime boss.
Cast: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes, Clémence Poésy, Jérémie Rénier. Rated R
Introducing the Dwights
Shy, warm-hearted, good-looking Tim Dwight has two women crazy about him. One is a dream girl named Jill. The other is his mum, Jean, a bawdy aging comedienne who doesn’t realize she’s past her sell-by date for a big break. As Jean tries to make it in show biz, she also struggles to hold her family, including Tim and his disabled brother Mark, together. Cast: Brenda Blethyn, Khan Chittenden, Emma Booth, Richard Wilson, Frankie J. Holden, Rebecca Gibney, Philip Quast, Katie Wall. Rated R
Ira & Abby
A sweet, hilarious romantic comedy that examines the issues of marriage, monogamy and whether ‘I do’ is the only path to life-long love and happiness. Cast: Jennifer Westfeldt, Chris Messina, Frances Conroy, Judith Light, Robert Klein, Fred Willard, Jason Alexander, Chris Parnell, Darrell Hammond. Rated R
Jumper
David is a Jumper who can teleport himself anywhere in the world, which creates a fun and exciting life. Things turn deadly when David finds himself pursued by a secret organization sworn to kill Jumpers. He forms an uneasy alliance with another Jumper and becomes a player in a war that has been raging for thousands of years. Cast: Hayden Christensen, Samuel L. Jackson, Diane Lane, Jamie Bell, Rachel Bilson, Michael Rooker, Annasophia Robb, Max Thieriot. Based on the novel by Steven Gould. Rated PG-13
Justice League: The New Frontier
The epic tale of the founding of the Justice League. Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman are all here, and so are Green Lantern, Martian Manhunter, and The Flash – whose incredible origins will be told for the very first time. Voices: David Boreanaz, Miguel Ferrer, Neil Patrick Harris, John Heard, Lucy Lawless, Kyle MacLachlan, Phil, Morris, Kyra Sedgwick, Brooke Shields, Jeremy Sisto. Based on the graphic novel by Darwyn Cooke. Rated PG-13
The Last Time
In the cutthroat world of New York City business sales, Ted Riker is the undisputed king. He’s bitter, cynical and ruthless – the exact opposite of Jamie, his naïve new sales partner from the Midwest. As Jamie fails time after time, he tries to befriend Ted and introduces him to his beautiful fiancée, Belisa. She awakens something in Ted. Ted has to decide to follow his heart, or go on to break Jamie’s. With Jamie increasingly on edge, that could be an extremely dangerous idea. Cast: Michael Keaton, Brendan Fraser, Amber Valletta, Daniel Stern, Neal McDonough, Michael C. Hagerty, Michael Lerner. Rated R
Meet Bill
By all appearances Bill’s life is perfect– a perfect mess, that is. His wife is having an affair with the local news anchor and he is stuck in a dead-end job at his father-in-law’s bank. Bill sees no escape from his miserable life until he becomes a mentor to a self-assured teen who is determined to help Bill reinvent his life by setting him up with a sexy lingerie saleswoman who promises to spice things up. Together, the trio confronts Bill’s hapless life with humor and energy while forcing him to capture his dream of becoming his own man. Cast: Aaron Eckhart, Jessica Alba, Elizabeth Banks, Timothy Olyphant, Logan Lerman. Rated R
My Blueberry Nights
Jeremy, a big-hearted owner of a small New York diner, tries to soothe Elizabeth’s jilted heart with his blueberry pie. But only after going on a year-long cross-country odyssey does she realize love was right at her doorstep all along. Cast: Norah Jones, Jude Law, David Strathairn, Rachel Weisz, Natalie Portman. Rated PG-13
Penelope
Penelope is a lonely heiress who has spent her entire life trying to break a strange family curse that left her with a nose of pig. When she meets a charming aristocrat who seems to see beyond her physical appearance, penelope begins to learn that loving herself if more important than breaking the curse. Cast: Christina Ricci, James McAvoy, Catherine O’Hara, Reese Witherspoon, Peter Dinklage, Richard E. Grant. Rated PG
Rails & Ties
After a train collides with a car, an unlikely bond is forged between the train engineer and a boy riding in the car. Cast: Kevin Bacon, Marcia Gay Harden. Rated PG-13
Saving Sarah Cain
Sarah Cain is a sweet, successful, somewhat self-absorbed city girl through and through. But when the untimely death of her sister draws her to Amish country for a funeral, she makes a discovery that will change her life–she is now the legal guardian to five Amish nieces and nephews. Cast: Lisa Pepper, Tess Harper, Elliott Gould, Tom Tate, Abigail Mason, Soren Fulton, Jennifer O’Dell, Danielle Chuchran, Tanner Maguire, Bailee Maidson, David Clennon. Based on the book The redemption of Sarah Cain by Beverly Lewis. Rated PG
Semi-Pro
1970s, Flint, Michigan. Jackie Moon is a former pop sensation who somehow made enough money from a couple of hit records to buy Flint’s semi-pro basketball team, the Tropics. The team consists of a bunch of disorganized losers with one genuine talent named Coffee Black. Despite knowing little about the game, Jackie is the Tropics’ coach as well as a player. His greater love involves coming up with bizarre marketing stunts to draw in an audience. His stunts include wrestling a bear and attempting a motorcycle jump over a line of cheerleaders. When the league plans to merge with the NBA and in order to survive, the Tropics must do the seemingly impossible – win. The Tropics look like they might be shut down so Jackie desperately agrees to let washed-up veteran player Monix take over coaching. Cast: Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson, André Benjamin, Maura Tierney, Will Arnett, David Koechner. Rated R
The Spiderwick Chronicles
The moment the Grace family moves into the dilapidated Spiderwick Estate, strange things begin to happen. As curious Jared investigates, he discovers Arthur Spiderwick’s field guide and the unbelievable truth of the Spiderwick Estate. Cast: Freddie Highmore, Mary-Louise Parker, Nick Nolte, Joan Plowright, David Strathairn. Based on the book by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black. Rated PG
Stop-Loss
Following his tour of duty in Iraq, Brandon King faces an unexpected challenge that puts him at odds with some of his fellow soldiers. Cast: Ryan Phillippe, Abbie Cornish, Channing Tatum, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ciaran Hinds, Timothy Olyphant, Victor Rasuk, Rob Brown. Rated R
10,000 B.C.
In a remote mountain tribe, the young hunter D’Leh finds his heart’s passion in the beautiful Evolet. But when a band of mysterious warlords raid their village and kidnaps Evolet, D’Leh leads a small group of hunters to save her. As they venture into unknown lands for the first time, the group discovers there are civilizations beyond their own and that mankind’s reach is far greater than they ever knew. At each encounter the group is joined by other tribes who have been attacked by the slave raiders. Soon the small band has turned into army. At a massive temple, the band will take their stand against a tyrannical god who has brutally enslaved their own. It is here that D’Leh finally comes to understand that he has been called to save not only Evolet but all of civilization. Cast: Steven Strait, Camilla Belle, Cliff Curtis. Rated PG-13
21
Inspired by the true story of MIT students who mastered the art of card counting and took Vegas casinos for millions in winnings. Looking for a way to pay for tuition, Ben Campbell finds himself quietly recruited by MIT’s most gifted students in a daring plot to break Vegas. With the aid of a brilliant statistics professor and armed with fake IDs, intelligence and a complicated system of counting cards, Ben and his friends succeed in breaking the impenetrable casinos. Now, his challenge is keeping the numbers straight and staying one step ahead of the casinos before it all spirals out of control. Cast: Jim Sturgess, Kate Bosworth, Laurence Fishburne, Kevin Spacey. Based on the book: Bringing Down the House, by Ben Mezrich. Rated PG-13
Vantage Point
U.S. president Ashton is in Salamanca, Spain to announce plans for a major global summit on terrorism. As he stands behind the podium in front of a loudly cheering crowd, he is shot twice. This is followed minutes later by a small explosion and then a massive blast. Secret Service agents Barnes, Taylor, and Holden immediately jump into action, trying to find the terrorists responsible amid all the chaos. First, the events are seen through the eyes of television news producer Rex Brooks. Then, the assassination attempt is replayed from seven different points of view. Each perspective reveals a few more clues. Cast: Dennis Quaid, Matthew Fox, Forest Whitaker, Sigourney Weaver, William Hurt. Rated PG-13
Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins
When a celebrated TV show host returns to his hometown in the South, his family is there to remind him that going home is no vacat ion! It’s one predicament after another when big-city attitude and small-town values collide. Cast: Martin Lawrence, Margaret Avery, Joy Bryant, Louis C.K., Michael Clarke Duncan, Mike Epps, Mo’Nique, Nicole Ari Parker, Cedric the Entertainer, James Earl Jones. Rated PG-13
Documentaries and Nonfiction Films – July 2008
Train Your Dog
Learn to train your dog with a positive and gentle method from two Los Angeles trainers, Nicole Wilde and Laura Bourhenne.
New DVDs: Feature Length Films and TV Series – July 2008
The Adams Chronicles
Four generations of Adamses and 150 years of American history from the birth of the Revolution through the Gilded Age. John Adams, a passionate revolutionary and second president; John Quincy Adams is the proud son of a famous father and sixth president; Charles Francis Adams is a skillful minister to Great Britain during the Civil War; Henry Adams the historian; Charles Francis Adams, Jr. is a railroad magnate. Going beyond politics, portrays these men as husbands, fathers, brothers, sons, as well as leaders. Cast: George Grizzard, Kathryn Walker, William Daniels, David Birney, John Beal, Peter Brandon, Charles Siebert, Nancy Marchand. Based on the family’s personal diaries and correspondences. Originally broadcast on television in 1976.
The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Volume Two
The War Years. Go on spectacular journeys with young Indy (Sean Patrick Flanery) as he travels through Europe, Africa and Asia and comes face to face with Vladimir Lenin, Charles de Gaulle, The Red Baron, and other fascinating characters during the turbulent years of World War I. Originally broadcast on television from 1992-1996. Created by George Lucas.
The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Volume Three
The Years of Change. Follow the thrilling escapades as World War I ends and young Indy (Sean Patrick Flanery) gets entangled in adventures with famous–and infamous–figures like Ernest Hemingway, Woodrow Wilson, Louis Armstrong and Al Capone during some of the most vibrant years of the 20th century. Created by George Lucas.
Alien Nation: The Complete Series
The television series loosely based on the 1988 feature film. Detective Matthew Sikes (Gary Graham), is an LA police officer reluctantly working with alien George Francisco (Eric Pierpoint) from the planet Tencton.
The Blue Butterfly
Tells the story of a terminally ill 10-year-old boy whose dream is to catch the most beautiful butterfly on Earth, the Blue Morpho. His mother persuades a renowned entomologist to take them to the jungle to search for it. Cast: William Hurt, Pascale Bussières, Marc Donato. Rated PG
Blue Murder: Set 1
Blue Murder: Set 2
On the job, Janine Lewis deals with drive-by executions, decomposed bodies, and abducted children. At home, she interviews nannies, schedules parent-teacher conferences, and bolts breakfast on the run. Cast: Caroline Quentin, Ian Kelsey, Saskia Wickham. Originally broadcast on British television.
Bones: Season Two An FBI agent teams up with a forensic anthropologist to solve some of the most baffling and bizarre crimes. Cast: David Boreanaz, Emily Deschanel. Originally broadcast on television during the 2006-2007 season.
Bullitt
A star witness in a controversial court case is murdered, and the police detective assigned to guard him goes after the killers himself. Cast: Steve McQueen, Robert Vaughn, Jacqueline Bisset, Don Gordon, Robert Duvall, Simon Oakland, Norman Fell. Originally produced as a motion picture in 1968. Rated PG.
The Closer: The Complete Third Season
The biggest cases demand the best cops, so when a little girl goes missing or a Homeland Security official takes a long drive off a short cliff or a ’90s serial killer revives his career in the 21st century, the LAPD knows to call Brenda Johnson and her crack team from the Priority Homicide Division. Cast: Kyra Sedgwick, J.K. Simmons, Corey Reynolds, Robert Gossett, G.W. Bailey, Tony Denison, Jon Tenney. Not Rated. Originally broadcast on TNT in 2007.
The Dead Zone: The Final Season
A man (Anthony Michael Hall) awakens from a coma with the power to see the past, present, and futures of anyone he touches. He uses his psychic ability to pursue justice. The 6th and final season of the USA Network Series.
Dickens of London
Traces the extraordinary life of Charles Dickens from his penniless childhood in Chatham and London during the 1820s to the unprecedented success he later enjoyed on both sides of the Atlantic. Cast: Roy Dotrice, Patsy Kensit, Ben Kingsley. Originally broadcast as a television miniseries on Masterpiece Theatre in 1976. Special features include: the bonus disc An Audience with Charles Dickens, a recreation of Dickens’ legendary public performance of A Christmas Carol, starring celebrated actor Simon Callow.
The 4400: The Fourth Season
When 4400 missing people emerge from nowhere, the Department of Homeland Security wants to know why. But the answers aren’t coming easy, and by the time they do … it might be too late.
French Kiss
When her fiance is smitten by a beautiful Frenchwoman, Kate flies to Paris determined to win him back. However, nothing prepares her for Luc, a cunning, sexy Frenchman with a gift for gab and a fondness for thievery. A self-proclaimed expert on affairs of the heart, Luc promises to help Kate win back her man. But one star-crossed misadventure after another sweeps them across France, ultimately changing them in ways they never dreamed possible. Cast: Meg Ryan, Kevin Kline, Timothy Hutton, Jean Reno, Francois Cluzet, Susan Anbeh. Rated PG-13.
Grey Owl
Directed byRichard Attenborough and based on a true story, an Englishman named Archibald Belaney (Pierce Brosnan) moves to Canada in the early 1900s to live as a Native American. Rated PG-13
Hamish MacBeth: Series Three
Police constable Hamish Macbeth (Robert Carlyle) finds more mysteries in the small Scottish town of Lochdubh. Originally broadcast on BBC-TV in 1996. Based on the books by M.C. Beaton.
Hocus Pocus
When three outlandishly wild witches are accidentally conjured up by pranksters, they return from 17th century Salem and set out to cast a spell on the town, but first they must outwit three kids and a talking cat. Cast: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, Vinessa Shaw. Rated PG
Hope Floats
A single mother who’s had a few hard knocks in life tries to get it together with the help of her ditsy mom and her childhood sweetheart. Cast: Sandra Bullock, Harry Connick, Jr., Gena Rowlands, Kathy Najimy, Rosanna Arquette. Rated PG-13
Inspector Morse: Part 1 The Dead of Jericho
In Episode 1 of the series, Inspector Morse, who never quite finds romance, thinks that at last things will turn out differently. He meets the beautiful Anne Stavely, but it is a love not destined to be when Anne is found hanging from a beam under mysterious circumstances. Morse suspects murder and sets out to discover the truth with the help of Sergeant Lewis. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Gemma Jones, Patrick Troughton. Based on the novel by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 2 The Silent World of Nicholas Quinn
Inspector Morse is called in to investigate one of the most puzzling murder cases yet. Someone is selling examination secrets at Oxford and making a killing in more ways than one. Nicholas Quinn is the hard-of-hearing member of an examinations board until one day he is found dead at home. Can Morse match up the clues with the killer? Based on a novel by Colin Dexter. Cast:
John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Barbara Flynn, Clive Swift, Frederick Treves, Michael Gough.
Inspector Morse: Part 3 Service of All the Dead
Helped by the church cleaner, Inspector Morse investigates five ruthless and gruesome killings in and around a quiet country church. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Angela Morant, Judy Campbell, John Normington, Michael Hordern, Maurice O’Connell, Peter Woodthorpe.
Based on the novel by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 4 The Wolvercote Tongue
A precious jewel known as The Wolvercote tongue is missing and its owner has been found dead in a hotel room. Morse suspects foul play, despite the pathologist’s report that she died of a heart attack. Based on a novel by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Peter Woodthorpe, Simon Callow, Kenneth Cranham, Roberta Taylor.
Inspector Morse: Part 5 Last Seen Wearing
Inspector Morse returns when a schoolgirl from a wealthy family is missing. Morse is convinced she has been murdered and his investigations reveal that there is more going on at her exclusive school than meets the eye. But before he has unravelled the mystery, he finds another murder on his hands. Based on the novel by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Elizabeth Hurley, Julia Sawalha.
Inspector Morse: Part 6 The Setting of the Sun
Morse is back at his Alma Mater when he is invited to present the trophy to the winner of a crossword competition at Oxford and a student attending the dinner is murdered. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Peter Woodthrope, Anna Calder-Marshall, Robert Stephens, Avis Bunnage, Derek Fowlds, Robert Lang, Amanda Burton. Based on the novel by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 7 Last Bus to Woodstock
Inspector Morse uncovers a web of intrigue, blackmail and hidden passion in a local insurance office, when he investigates the death of a young secretary. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Peter Woodthorpe, Anthony Bate, Terrence Hardiman, Fabia Drake, Jill Baker, Holly Aird, Paul Geoffrey. Based on the novel by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 8 Ghost in the Machine
Valuable paintings are stolen from the estate of Sir Julius Hanbury, and when Sir Julius himself disappears Morse and Sergeant Lewis are called upon to investigate the minds and morals of the aristocracy to solve the mystery. Cast:John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Amanda Hillwood, Patricia Hodge, Michael Thomas. Based on a story by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 9 The Last Enemy
Morse is back at his Alma Mater when a body is found in a canal and the evidence points to a connection with one of the colleges at Oxford. Based on a story by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Amanda Hillwood, James Grout, Barry Foster, Michael Aldridge.
Inspector Morse: Part 10 Deceived By Flight
Sergeant Lewis gets to display his cricketing skills as a sub with the Clarets XI old boys’ team when they gather for their annual match at Oxford, but Morse is called in when one of the team is murdered. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Amanda Hillwood, Norman Rodway, Sharon Maughan, Daniel Massey, Nicky Henson, Jane Booker, Geoffrey Beevers, Bryan Pringle. As seen on A & E and PBS Mystery!
Inspector Morse: Part 11 The Secret of Bay 5B
Playboy architect Michael Gifford has been found strangled in his car and the only clues to the murder are his diary and a car park ticket. The diary shows that Gifford had regular assignations in the car park and a telephone number proves to be that of a local insurance company, although Gifford did not have a policy there. The plot thickens as Morse and Lewis uncover a love triangle involving the dead man. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Amanda Hillwood, Mel Martin, Marion Bailey, Andrew Wilde, Philip McGough.
Inspector Morse: Part 12 The Infernal Serpent
Morse and Lewis have to tackle a particularly unsavory case involving child abuse. Their inquiries into the murder of an eminent environmentalist, killed minutes before he was scheduled to give a controversial lecture, unearth skeletons in the cupboard of a respectable academic family. Based on the characters by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Cheryl Campbell, Barbara Leigh-Hunt, Geoffrey Palmer, Irene Richard.
Inspector Morse: Part 16 Second Time Around
The murder of an ex-Deputy Police Commissioner and the theft of a single chapter of his memoirs cause Morse concern. It soon becomes apparent that the missing chapter relates to a murder committed 18 years ago which was at the time investigated by the victim and Morse himself. Based on characters created by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Kenneth Colley, Pat Heywood, Ann Bell, Oliver Ford Davies and James Grout.
Inspector Morse: Part 20 Promised Land
When the case against the Abingdon gang comes under scrutiny, Morse and Lewis must travel to Australia to locate their prime informant who was resettled there with his entire family in exchange for the information he provided the police.Starring John Thaw as Inspector Morse, with Kevin Whately, Rhondda Findleton, John Jarratt, Max Phipps, Con O’Neill, Noah Taylor and James Grout. Based on characters created by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 22 Happy Families
Sir John Balcombe, head of one of the country’s largest companies, is found brutally murdered at his home. The Balcombe family shows no sign of grief and the murder is attracting considerable public attention. Morse dislikes the press attention but his mind is brought swiftly back to Balcombe House when a second murder occurs. Based on a characters created by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Rupert Graves, Gwen Taylor, Anna Massey.
Inspector Morse: Part 23 The Death of the Self
An Englishwoman is attending an expensive psychotherapy course near Vicenza, Italy when she dies in a freak accident. The Italian verdict is accidental death, but the woman’s husband questions the decision. Morse and Lewis are sent to Italy where Morse discovers that the psychotherapy centre is run by an old adversary. Based on characters created by Colin Dexter. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Frances Barber.
Inspector Morse: Part 28 Twilight of the Gods
While celebrations are taking place at the new college building at Oxford, Morse and Lewis look into the murder of a freelance journalist, who was working on an article about college benefactor Bayden. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, John Gielgud, Robert Hardy, Sheila Gish, Jean Anderson, James Grout. Based on the characters created by Colin Dexter.
Inspector Morse: Part 31 Death is Now My Neighbour
Murder strikes in an Oxfordshire village at 17 Bloxham Drive. Exactly 24 hours later, while a policeman patrols outside, the resident at Number 15 is shot dead by the same gun. Investigators begin to unearth links between the neighbours of the modern estate. The murders also take Morse and Lewis into the hothouse atmosphere of the election for Master of Lonsdale College, over which the smooth and odious retiring master, Sir Clixby Bream, presides. Cast: John Thaw, Kevin Whately, Richard Briers, Maggie Steed, John Shrapnel, Judy Loe, Roger Allam, James Grout, Mark McGann. Based on the novel by Colin Dexter.
I.Q.
All the world knows about Einstein the scientific genius. But what about Einstein the matchmaker? I.Q. puts this fanciful notion to the test and comes up with winning results in this fun, warm-hearted romantic comedy. Cast: Meg Ryan, Tim Robbins, Walter Matthau, Charles Durning. Rated PG
John Adams
While our new nation was suffering attacks from both within and without, John Adams had a vision of a nation of liberty and justice for all. He guided his peers–General George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson–in setting the values and agenda for a glorious, free America. Adams and his wife Abigail refined these democratic ideals, and their partnership became one of the most moving love stories in American history. Cast: Paul Giamatti, Laura Linney, Stephen Dillane, Danny Huston, David Morse, Sarah Polley, Tom Wilkinson.
Originally broadcast on HBO as a seven-part mini-series in 2008. Based on the book written by David McCullough. Rating: TV-14.
Land of Plenty
Story about a woman who works with the homeless, and a paranoid Vietnam vet who both become interested in the death of a Pakistani man killed in a drive-by shooting, but for totally different reasons. Cast: John Diehl, Michelle Williams, Richard Edson, Wendell Pierce, Burt Young. Not Rated
The Last Detective: Series 4
Things are looking up for Detective Constable “Dangerous” Davies, as played with heart and sly wit by Peter Davison. Dangerous has a knack for solving impossible crimes and piecing together connections where others have long since given up.
Longford
Based on a true story of the devout Catholic British Lord Frank Aungier Pakenham, 7th Earl of Longford, and his controversial, colorful, headline-making friendship with one of Britain’s most notorious criminals, child murderess Myra Hindley. Cast: Jim Broadbent, Samantha Morton, Lindsay Duncan, Andy Serkis. TV-MA.
MacArthur Park
Life in the park is daily warfare with rival gangs, police raids, the wealthy decadents who come for drugs and the ongoing demons of addiction, and the harder Cody tries to escape the park, the more it seems to close in on him. Cast: Thomas Jefferson Byrd, Brandon Adams, Tami Anderson, B-Real, Bad Azz, Elenn Cleghorne, Julie Delpy, David Faustino, Balthazar Getty, Rachel Hunter. Rated R
Mansfield Park
When Fanny Price is sent away to live with her rich cousins, she’s meant to learn the ways of proper society but manages to enlighten them as well. Cast: Embeth Davidtz, Jonny Lee Miller, Alessandro Nivola, Frances O’Connor. Based on Jane Austen’s novel. Rated PG-13.
Marple: Season Three
In her golden years, Miss Marple (Geraldine McEwan) blends into the scenery of her elegant surroundings. All the better to observe the foibles of human nature that lead to evil — and to surprise one and all when she solves crimes that baffle the professionals. Rich with period detail, these all-new adaptations feature stellar supporting casts, including Richard E. Grant, Amanda Burton, Eileen Atkins, Saffron Burrows, Greg Wise, Martine McCutcheon, Francesca Annis, Peter Davison, Jane Seymour, and Juliet Stevenson.
McLeod’s Daughters: The Complete Third Season
McLeod’s Daughters: The Complete Fourth Season
McLeod’s Daughters: The Complete Fifth Season
McLeod’s Daughters: The Complete Sixth Season
The adventure on the Australian outback continues with sisters Claire and Tess and the women of Drovers Run as they face new challenges running the large cattle property.
Medium: The First Season
Inspired by the life story of Allison DuBois, a woman who can communicate with the dead, but for most of her life she viewed this gift as a curse. Allison finally submits to her calling when she realizes she can do more good as a medium than as a lawyer. Cast: Patricia Arquette, Maria Lark, Miguel Sandoval, Sofia Vassilieva, Jake Weber. Not Rated.
Midsomer Murders: Set Ten
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 Barnaby with John Hopkins as his brash young assistant, Sergeant Dan Scott. Guest stars include Oliver Ford Davies, Annette Crosbie, Owen Teale, June Whitfield, Geoffrey Whitehead, and David Burke.
Numb3rs: The Complete First Season
We all use mathematics every day– but in a world of body counts, multiple criminal masterminds, and percentages involving perpetrators who may act again, figures are especially valuable. This is the world of Numb3rs. Don Eppes is an FBI agent who recruits his mathematically gifted brother Charlie to help the Bureau solve a wide range of challenging crimes in Los Angeles, thus tackling the most baffling criminal cases from two very distinctive perspectives. Cast: Rob Morrow, David Krumholtz, Judd Hirsch, Peter MacNicol, Alimi Ballard, Sabrina Lloyd, Navi Rawat, Kate Norby. Originally broadcast on CBS television during 2005.
Numb3rs. The Complete Second Season
FBI agent Don Eppes couldn’t be more different from his younger brother, Charlie, a brilliant math professor at a California university. Don deals in hard facts and evidence, Charlie thrives in a world of mathematical probability and equations. Don and Charlie often combine their areas of expertise to solve a wide range of challenging crimes in Los Angeles. Cast: Rob Morrow, David Krumholtz, Judd Hirsch, Alimi Ballard, Peter MacNicol, Navi Rawat, Diane Farr, Dylan Bruno.
Originally broadcast on CBS television during the 2005-2006 season.
Numb3rs: The Complete Third Season
FBI Special Agent Don Eppes recruits his mathematically gifted brother, Charlie, to help the Bureau solve a wide range of challenging crimes in Los Angeles. Don is assisted by fellow agents Megan Reeves, David Sinclair, and Colby Granger, while Charlie finds insight and encouragement from a co-worker, Dr. Larry Fleinhardt, and Amita Ramnjuan, Charlie’s former grad student.
Rob Morrow, David Krumholtz, Diane Farr, Alimi Ballard, Dylan Bruno, Peter MacNicol, Navi Rawat. Originally broadcast on television during the 2006-2007 season.
Poirot: Collector’s Set 12
David Suchet returns as Agatha Christie’s eccentric Belgian sleuth. All three mysteries are well acted, shot in beautiful locations, and manage to fold in a little dry humor with the ghastly business at hand.
Project Runway: The Complete Second Season
Starring international supermodel Heidi Klum, this series follows a group of young fashion designers competing with each other to make it in the high-stakes world of fashion. Originally broadcast by Bravo 2005-2006. Rated TV 14.
The Scarlet Letter
Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel brings to life the attitudes and passions of 17th century New England. Condemned by her Puritan fellows for having a child out of wedlock, Hester Prynne is forced to wear a scarlet letter. Cast: Meg Foster, John Heard, Kevin Conway. Originally broadcast by PBS in 1979. Not rated.
Slap Shot
The coach of a third-rate hockey team signs up some rough and tough players to help his team win. Cast: Paul Newman, Michael Ontkean, Lindsay Crouse, Jennifer Warren, Jerry Houser, Strother Martin. Originally produced as a motion picture in 1977. Rated R
Stargate Atlantis: Season 2
Stargate Atlantis: Season 3
Stargate Atlantis: Season 4
A secret base built by the Ancients is found in the ice in Antarctica. The Stargate Atlantis team is sent on a one-way mission to explore the distant Pegasus galaxy. The team encounters many new civilizations, including the sinister Wraith. Cast: Joe Flanigan, Torri Higginson, Rachel Luttrell, Rainbow Sun Francks, David Hewlett, Paul McGillion.
Supernatural: The Complete Second Season
Brothers Sam and Dean (Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles) travel the darker corners of the American landscape in search of their father, who’s gone missing while hunting the malevolent forces that lead to the death of their mother.
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
When the beautiful widow Helen Graham moves into the derelict Wildfell Hall with her son, she arouses great curiosity from the local villagers. CastTara Fitzgerald, Rupert Graves, Toby Stephens. Based on the novel by Anne Brontë. Originally broadcast on BBC TV in 1996.
Twister
Scientist Jo Harding and her crack team of tornado chasers are pursuing the most destructive weatherfront to sweep through mid-America’s Tornado Alley in 50 years. TV weatherman Bill Harding is trying to get his tornado-hunter wife, Jo, to sign divorce papers so he can marry his girlfriend Melissa. But Mother Nature, in the form of a series of intense storms has other plans. Jo’s team is planning to launch revolutionary electronic sensors into the funnel of the tornado. They hope to obtain data to create an improved weather warning system. In order to get the sensors to work, the team must intercept the twister. Cast: Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Jami Gertz, Cary Elwes. Rated PG-13
Wire in the Blood: The Complete Fifth Season
Clinical psychologist Dr. Tony Hill (Robson Green) must race against time to profile and track down vicious criminals before they strike next. Not Rated
Without a Trace: The Complete First Season
Without a Trace: The Complete Second Season
FBI agent Jack Malone and his dedicated team of The Missing Persons Unit are on the case. These investigators track down missing persons by using advanced profiling techniques. Cast: Anthony LaPaglia, Poppy Montgomery, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Enrique Murciano, Eric Close.