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

Richelle

The Boys from Brazil
A band of Nazi leaders, escaped from postwar Germany, scheme to return to power. Their plans to dominate the world are based on a bizarre biological experiment undertaken by Josef Mengele, to clone Hitler. Cast: Gregory Peck, Laurence Olivier, James Mason, Lilli Palmer, Steve Guttenberg. Originally released as a motion picture in 1978. Based on the novel by Ira Levin. Rated R.

The Conversation
A provoking mystery-suspense drama explores the morality of privacy in the story of Harry Caul, a surveillance expert, who conducts a routine surveillance job only to later find himself suspicious that he has become an unwitting player in murder scheme. Originally released as a motion picture in 1974. Cast: Gene Hackman, John Cazale, Allen Garfield, Cindy Williams, Frederic Forrest, Robert Duvall.

The Counterfeit Traitor
An American businessman turned Swedish oil-trader finds his life and fortunes held hostage when he’s blackmailed by British agents and forced into the perilous arena of WWII espionage. Cast: William Holden, Lilli Palmer, Hugh Griffith. Originally released as a motion picture in 1962.
Based on the book by Alexander Klein. Not rated.

The Day of the Jackal
Story of a cold, suave British assassin hired by the French OAS to kill General Charles de Gaulle. Nameless and faceless, the killer, known by the code name of Jackal, relentlessly moves toward the date with death that would rock the world. The tension mounts as the methodical preparations of the Jackal are paralleled with the efforts of the police to uncover the plot, which gives the story non-stop, edge-of-your-seat suspense. Cast: Edward Fox, Alan Badel, Tony Britton, Cyril Cusack, Michel Lonsdale, Eric Porter, Delhpine Seyrig. DVD release of the 1973 motion picture. Based on the book by Frederick Forsyth. Rated PG.

Eye of the Needle
While attempting to complete a crucial mission during WWII, a ruthless German spy is shipwrecked on a deserted Scottish island and befriended by a lonely woman. Cast: Donald Sutherland, Kate Nelligan, Ian Bannen, Christopher Cazenove. Based on the novel by Ken Follett. Rated R.

Five Days
After Leanne and her children vanish into thin air, her husband and family soon learn that nobody is what they seem. Cast: Nikki Amuka-Bird, Hugh Bonneville, Charlie Creed-Miles, Lucinda Dryzek, Rory Kinnear, Patrick Malahide, Janet McTeer, David Oyelowo, Sarah Smart, Penelope Wilton, Edward Woodward. Originally broadcast on HBO in 2007. Rated TV-MA

Love’s Unfolding Dream
Missie’s adopted daughter Belinda is determined to become a doctor, but despite her dedication and ability, Doc Jackson believes women should stay at home– and so does Belinda’s suitor, Drew Simpson. But with faith and hard work, Belinda begins winning the hearts and minds of everyone around her, including a wealthy dowager, who just might help make Belinda’s dreams come true. Cast: Erin Cottrell, Dale Midkiff, Scout Taylor-Compton, Robert Pine, Patrick Levis, Nancy Linehan Charles, Samantha Smith. Based on the novel by Janette Oke. Originally broadcast as a made-for-TV movie in 2007. Not Rated

Man Who Never Was
Account of wartime espionage based on the true story of an intelligence operation designed to mislead the Nazis prior to the 1943 Allied invasion of Sicily. Cast: Clifton Webb, Gloria Grahame. Originally produced as a motion picture in 1955. From the book by Ewen Montagu. Not rated.

Marathon Man
Story of a graduate student and marathon runner unwittingly trapped in a terrifying drama revolving around a murderous Nazi fugitive. Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Laurence Olivier, Roy Scheider, William Devane, Marthe Keller. DVD release of the 1976 motion picture. Rated R.

The Omega Man
Biological warfare has decimated the world’s population. Los Angeles is a windswept, debris-strewn ghost town. There, Robert Neville tools his convertible through the sunny streets, pillaging deserted department stores to survive. And making damn sure he gets undercover before sundown, when the other ‘survivors’ emerge. Based on the novel “I am Legend” by Richard Matheson. Cast: Charlton Heston, Anthony Zerbe, Rosalind Cash. Rated PG.

The Three Days of Condor
A CIA agent who is on the run from a mass slaughter in his research office suddenly finds himself the target of both his employers and the unknown killers of his associates. Based on the novel “Six days of the Condor” by James Grady. CastRobert Redford, Cliff Robertson, Faye Dunaway, Max von Sydow. Rated R.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
Some say George Smiley is in innocent retirement. Others say he was sacked after the Czech scandal. But all agree that nobody ever leaves the ‘Circus’ without some unfinished business. Brought out of retirement to trace an enemy infiltrator in the department where he was once the prize employee, the shy and retiring master of espionage moves forwards to investigate and finds himself going backwards over very old ground … Cast: Alec Guinness, Ian Bannen, Bernard Hepton, Terence Rigby, Michael Jayston, Hywel Bennett and Anthony Bate. Based on the novel by John Le Carre. Not rated.

Touch of Frost Season 13
Detective Jack Frost is called to investigate when a couple return from holiday to find the body of a complete stranger in their bed. He also becomes involved in a murder inquiry and uncovers a crime ring involved in the importing of endangered species and illegal animal goods. Cast: David Jason, Bruce Alexander. Not rated.

New Mysteries – April 2008

Lynne

Another Thing to Fall Laura Lippman – Tess Monaghan is confronted with lies, murder and manipulation as a television series is filmed in Baltimore.

Aunt Dimity: Vampire Hunter Nancy Atherton – This 13th Aunt Dimity mystery features the sighting by Lori Shepherd’s 5-year-old twins, of a strange, cloaked figure with bloodstained lips lurking in the woods.

Blood of the Wicked Leighton Gage – In the remote Brazilian town of Cascatas do Pontal, the bishop, arriving to consecrate a new church, is assassinated.

The Blue Door David Fulmer – Ex-boxer Eddie Cero investigates the cold case that involves the lead singer for the Excels, one of Philadelphia’s best soul acts.

Carrot Cake MurderJoanne Fluke – Hannah Swensen, owner of the Cookie Jar bakery, must deal with the murder of Uncle Gus during a family reunion.

Cross Ken Bruen – Jack Taylor searches for the perpetrator of a horrible murder in Galway, Ireland.

Curse of the Spellmans Lisa Lutz – The dysfunctional family of private investigators returns with another entertaining story of suspicion, surveillance and surprise.

Death Walked In Carolyn Hart – One of the author’s Death on Demand Mysteries, features Max and Annie Darling as a strange mystery confronts them during the renovation of the older home they are restoring.

Frail Barrier Edward Sklepowich – As Venice prepares for the annual regatta, Urbino Macintyre finds himself dragged into an intriguing mystery.

Friend of the Devil Peter Robinson – This British procedural, featuring Chief Inspector Alan Banks and Detective Inspector Annie Cabbot, focuses on two chilling crimes.

Gone to Ground John Harvey – A shocking death may have resulted from a biographer getting too close to the truth about fifties film star, Stella Leonard.

Goodbye Sister Disco James Patrick Hunt – Lt. George Hastings of the St. Louis Police Department is working with the FBI to solve the politically motivated kidnapping of the daughter of a wealthy businessman.

The Headhunters Peter Lovesey – Does a seemingly innocent conversation on “how to murder your boss” have more sinister overtones?

Houston Homicide Bill Crider and Clyde Wilson – Houston, Texas, 1969, and Detective Ted Stephens is looking into a gruesome multiple homicide.

An Incomplete Revenge Jacqueline Winspear – Psychologist and investigator, Maisie Dobbs, delves into a strange series of crimes in the quaint village of Kent.

New Releases on DVD – April 2008

Richelle

Alvin and the Chipmunks
Struggling songwriter Dave Seville opens his home to a talented trio of chipmunks named Alvin, Simon, and Theodore. When they become overnight music sensations, a greedy record producer tries to exploit the ‘boys’ and send them on a grueling concert tour just to line his own pockets. Now Dave must use a little human ingenuity and a lot of ‘munk mischief to get his furry family back before it’s too late! Cast: Jason Lee, David Cross, Cameron Richardson. Voices: Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney. MPAA rating: PG

Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead
Andy, is an overextended payroll executive who lures his younger brother, Hank, into a larcenous scheme to rob a suburban mom-and-pop jewelry store that appears to be an easy target. The problem is, the store owners are Andy and Hank’s real mom and pop, and the seemingly perfect crime goes awry. Cast: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ethan Hawke, Marisa Tomei, Albert Finney, Brian F. O’Byrne, Rosemary Harris. MPAA rating: R

Charlie Wilson’s War
Based on the true story of Texas congressman Charlie Wilson during the early 1980s, this tells how a congressman who loved a good time, one Houston socialite who loved a good cause and one renegade CIA agent who loved a good fight conspired to bring about the largest covert operation in history. Cast: Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams, Ned Beatty. Based on the book by George Crile. MPAA rating: R

Cloverfield
Five young New Yorkers throw their friend a going-away party the night that a monster the size of a skyscraper descends upon the city. Cast: Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas, T.J. Miller, Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel, Odette Yustman. Rated PG-13

Juno
Faced with an unplanned pregnancy, an offbeat young woman makes an unusual decision regarding her unborn child. Cast: Ellen Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Allison Janney, J.K. Simmons. MPAA rating: PG-13.

Lars and the Real Girl
Lars is a sweet but shy guy who has a hard time talking with his family, coworkers, and neighbors. Although his family fears the worst when Lars brings home a life-sized companion doll who he thinks is a real girlfriend, named Bianca, a doctor encourages them to play along with him so that he can work through his delusions. The whole community rallies to his support, and Lars begins to deal with all of his emotions. He even begins to develop feelings for Margo, an attractive co-worker, in what becomes “a hilariously unique love triangle.” Cast: Ryan Gosling, Emily Mortimer, Paul Schneider, Kelli Garner, Patricia Clarkson. Rated PG-13

Lions for Lambs
Injuries sustained by two Army rangers behind enemy lines in Afghanistan set off a sequence of events involving a congressman, a journalist, and a professor. Cast: Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Tom Cruise, Michael Peña, Andrew Garfield, Peter Berg, Derek Luke. Rated R

Mist
When Dave Drayton notices a strange mist on the lake, he does not think much of it. Later, when his son, Billy, his neighbor Brent Norton, and he travel to the grocery store, strange things begin to happen. On their way to the market, they see the army, the local firefighters, and the police heading toward the mist. When he sees this, Brent mentions something about “Project Arrowhead,” a secret military plan that no one knows about. When an elderly man runs into the market with a bloody nose, declaring that something is in the mist, the store immediately becomes besieged by otherworldly creatures which the shoppers and employees must battle. Cast: Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden, Laurie Holden, Andre Braugher, Toby Jones. Based on the novella by Stephen King. MPAA rating: R

Mist: The Tale of a Sheepdog Puppy
Mist is one of three pups born at Borough Farm. From the moment that she opens her eyes, her dream is to become a real sheepdog. But things are not as easy as she might have hoped. Training with the boss is confusing, and then there’s a bunch of gruff and gumpy rams to deal with, and an auntie who may not always have her best interests at heart. Mist will need to learn her craft and prove herself worthy of a place on the team sheepdogs at the farm. Originally broadcast as a television motion picture in 2006. AudienceTV-G.

Resurrecting the Champ
Erik Kernan is an up-and-coming sports reporter who rescues a homeless man only to discover that he is, in fact, a boxing legend believed to have passed away. What begins as an opportunity to resurrect the Champ’s story and escape the shadow of his father’s success becomes a personal journey as the ambitious reporter reexamines his own life and his relationship with his family. Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, John Hartnett, Kathryn Morris, Alan Alda, Rachel Nichols, David Paymer; Teri Hatcher. Based on the story written by J.R. Moehringer. Rated PG-13

Rocket Science
The story follows the life of fifteen year-old Hal Hefner(Reese Daniel Thompson), an awkward teenager with a stutter who wants to rise from obscurity and become an unlikely hero of his high school. He sees his chance when the fast-talking star of the debate team convinces him that he’s got the raw talent to succeed at public speaking. MPAA rating: R

Savages
Jon and Wendy Savage are two siblings who have spent their adult years trying to recover from the abuse of their abusive father, Lenny Savage. When their father’s girlfriend suddenly dies, they feel obliged to take care of him. Now together, brother and sister must come to terms with the new and painful responsibilities with their father. The siblings are forced to face the struggle with their now personal demons. Cast: Laura Linney, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Philip Bosco.
Rated R.

Stargate the Ark of Truth
SG-1 searches for an ancient weapon which could help them defeat the Ori, and discover it may be in the Ori’s own home galaxy. As the Ori prepare to send ships through to the Milky Way to attack Earth, on board the Odyssey, SG-1 travels to the Ori galaxy. The International Oversight Committee has their own plans and SG-1 finds themselves in a distant galaxy fighting two powerful enemies. Cast: Ben Browder, Michael Shanks, Amanda Tapping, Christopher Judge, Claudia Black, Beau Bridges, Spencer Maybee, Martin Christopher. Not Rated.

There Will Be Blood
Self-made oilman Daniel Plainview, whose voracious appetite for oil turns him into a California tycoon in the early years of the 20th century must face challenges not only from his son, but also a preacher as ambitious as himself and the oil fields themselves. Cast: Daniel Day-Lewis, Paul Dano, Kevin J. O’Connor, Ciarán Hinds, Dillon Freasier. Based on the novel “Oil” by Upton Sinclair. Rated R

Walk Hard: the Dewey Cox Story
The up-and-down and then up-again story of musician Dewey Cox. Dewey’s songs would change a nation. On his rock ‘n roll spiral, Dewey sleeps with 411 women, marries three times, has 22 kids and 14 step-kids, stars in his own 70s TV show, collects friends ranging from Elvis to the Beatles to a chimp. He becomes addicted to and then kicks about every drug known to man. Despite it all, Cox grows into a national icon and eventually earns the love of a good woman, his longtime backup singer Darlene. Cast: John C. Reilly, Jenna Fischer, Tim Meadows, Kristen Wiig. Rated R.

The Waterhorse
Present day Scotland. Angus discovers a mysterious egg that hatches a sea creature of Celtic mythology. The creature befriends Angus and will eventually be known as the Loch Ness Monster. Trying to hide the dinosaur-like creature, nicknamed Crusoe, Angus enlists Lewis to transfer it to the lake, where boy and serpent have extraordinary adventures together until human stupidity threatens Crusoe’s existence. Emily Watson, Alex Etel, Ben Chaplin, David Morrissey, Brian Cox. Based on the book The water horse by Dick King-Smith. PG

Documentaries and Nonfiction Films – April 2008

Richelle

The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters
Examines a rivalry between two top players of the video game Donkey Kong. Featuring Steve Wiebe, Billy Mitchell, Walter Day. MPAA rating: PG-13

War Dance
A group of children in war-ravaged Northern Uganda are invited to compete in a national music and dance championship, and experience a normal childhood and the taste of victory for the first time. MPAA rating: PG-13

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

Richelle

Forces of Nature
Ben has only two days to get from New York to Georgia for his wedding, but the forces of nature, and a free-spirited traveler, are working against him. Cast: Sandra Bullock, Ben Affleck, Maura Tierney, Steve Zahn, Blythe Danner, Ronny Cox. Rated PG-13.

Miss Austen Regrets
Austen fans will be delighted with the second disc in the new Sense & Sensibility set: Miss Austen Regrets is a perfect companion to the miniseries, starring Olivia Williams stars as the author, and Greta Scacchi–who could easily pass as Williams’ real-life sibling–as Austen’s sister Cassandra. The film takes a bittersweet look at Austen’s life and hints at what could have been had she married one of her suitors. Smart and headstrong, Austen refuses to cave into society’s notions of what a proper woman should do. While her famous heroines all paired up with dashing gentlemen, Austen found that the loves of her life were her written creations.

Murder Must Advertise
It looks like a tragic accident when Victor Dean falls down the spiral staircase at Pym’s Publicity Ltd. His replacement, Lord Peter Wimsey (Ian Carmichael), sets out to find the truth which leads him to a drug ring operating through someone at the agency. DVD release of the original 1973 BBC television drams seen on PBS’ Masterpiece Theatre. Based on the novel by Dorothy Sayers.

Sense & Sensibility
Masterpiece Theatre & the BBC produced this new 3-part adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel about love and marriage. Cast: David Morrissey, Janet McTeer, Hattie Morahan, Charity Wakefield, Dan Stevens, Dominic Cooper, Mark Williams, Claire Skinner, Anna Madeley, Daisy Haggard.

Smiley’s People
The bespectacled spymaster is once more called from retirement to come to the aid of the ‘Circus’–and he returns with a vengeance. The murder of an emigre Soviet General who was also a British agent, sends him digging into the past on a twisted trail across Europe that moves, inexorably, towards a final showdown with his old adversary, Karla of Moscow Center. Cast: Alec Guinness as George Smiley, with Eileen Atkins, Anthony Bate, Bernard Hepton, Michael Lonsdale, Beryl Reid, Patrick Stewart, and Bill Paterson. Based on the novel by John Le Carré ; sequel to his Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. Produced by BBC television in 1994

Foreign Language Films – April 2008

Richelle

Endless Way
As he comes of age, Ah Ming must begin a life of endless labor to bring sacred water to his family. Forced into an arranged marriage with a young girl from a neighboring village, he must forsake his true love, Ah Shui. Unable to cope with the harsh routine that each villager must endure, Ah Ming’s wife leaves, never to return, and the long suffering Ah Shui steps forth to care for Ah Ming and his ailing mother, sharing their pain and grief. Chinese (Mandarin) dialogue with optional English, simplified Chinese, and traditional Chinese subtitles. Chinese (Mandarin) dialogue with optional English, simplified Chinese, and traditional Chinese subtitles.

Going to School with Dad on My Back
Based on a true story, Going to School with Dad on my Back focuses on the selfless acts a family must endure to ensure the survival of their brightest, and the hope of a better future for all of China. Based on a true story. Originally released as a motion picture in 1997. Chinese dialgoue with optional Chinese or English subtitles.

Legend of the Black Scorpion
Scheming royals and other officials seek to conquer empires and consolidate power to form a single omnipotent dynasty. Meanwhile, a legendary empress who has the fighting skills unparalleled by any man, harbors forbidden desires for her stepson. Set in the Age of Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, tells the story of a royal court in turmoil including forbidden love, deceit, revenge, overpowering beauty, and greed. Originally released as a motion picture in 2006. Mandarin and English dialogue, English or Spanish subtitles.

New Books on CD – March 2008

Richelle

The Abstinence Teacher Tom Perrotta – Stonewood Heights is the setting for this story of a human sexuality teacher and her daughter’s soccer coach.

The Anatomy of Deception Lawrence Goldstone – Murder, secrets, and crime in the Philadelphia of 1889.

The Appeal John Grisham – A jury returns a shocking verdict against a chemical company accused of dumping toxic waste.

The Art of Power Thich Nhat Hanh – True power comes from within.

Beverly Hills Dead Stuart Woods – Murder, political intrigue, and betrayal boil over in 1940’s Hollywood.

Big Boned Meg Cabot – Sometime sleuth Heather Wells finds herself on the shortlist of suspects in the murder of an unloveable boss.

Capitol Conspiracy William Bernhardt – Oklahoma defense attorney Ben Kincaid is in a campaign of terror against government officials in the nation’s capital.

The Chameleon’s Shadow Minette Walters – When British Lieutenant Charles Acland returns home from Iraq, he suffers from a head injury and personality changes, but is he capable of murder?

The Darkest Evening of the Year Dean Koontz – The new thriller by a perennially favorite author features Amy Redwing who is dedicated to saving golden retrievers.

Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat? An Easy Plan for Losing Weight and Living More Peter Walsh – Rather than count calories, focus on how, why, and where you eat.

Duma Key Stephen King – Recuperating from a construction accident, Edgar Freemantle’s life takes a supernatural turn as he recuperates on Duma Key. Vintage King.

The Fall of the House of Bush Craig Unger – A critical look at the Bush presidency and the war in Iraq.

Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity David Allen – Our ability to be productive is directly proportional to our ability to relax and our minds are clear.

The Ghost Robert Harris – Power, politics, corruption and murder are all featured in a thriller involving a ghost writer and a British prime minister.

Her Last Death Susanna Sonnenberg – An emotional tale of a daughter’s relationship with her mother.

Homecoming Bernhard Schlink – As a child of World War II, Peter Debauer grew up with few memories of his father. His search for him takes him through Europe and finally to New York City.

The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want Sonja Lyubomirsky – Methods to increase happiness in our day-to-day lives — in the short term and over the long term.

I Am Legend Richard Matheson – The classic horror novel, recently released as a film, is now available as an audiobook.

I’m Proud of You: My Friendship with Fred Rogers Tim Madigan – The story of the author’s personal friendship with Mr. Rogers and the important legacy that he left to all of us.

Light of the Moon Luanne Rice – Susannah Connolly travels to France to fulfill her mother’s dying wish to find a mysterious saint linked to her family’s history.

The Painter of Battles Arturo Pérez-Reverte – Andres Faulques, a famous war photographer, has retired on the coast of Spain, when the man featured in a long-ago photograph appears with the intention of killing him.

Remember Me Sophie Kinsella – Following a car accident, Lexi Smart finds she has a completely different life than the one she used to know.

The Secret Between Us Barbara Delinsky – Deborah Monroe and her daughter, Grace are in an accident. When Deborah takes responsibility, the deception takes on a life of its own.

The Senator’s Wife Sue Miller – The author of While I Was Gone returns with the story of two women and a portrait of two marriages.

The Serpent’s Tale Ariana Franklin – Adelia Aguilar, returns from her earlier outing in Mistress of the Art of Death, to unravel the murder of King Henry II’s mistress.

7th Heaven James Patterson – The Women’s Murder Club faces a terrifying case.

Shadow Music Julie Garwood – King John has arranged for the marriage of Princess Gabrielle to a Scottish laird, but intrigue, war and romance intervene.

Shakespeare: The World as Stage Bill Bryson – The author explores the life and works of William Shakespeare and offers humorous reflections of his own adventures in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Tree of Smoke Denis Johnson – Outstanding reviews have accompanied this new novel set during the Vietnam War era.

Watchman Ian Rankin – Miles Flint is a government spy who has been making some serious mistakes.

Wizard’s Daughter Catherine Coulter – A young woman with a mysterious past is able to interpret an ancient book in 1830’s London.

New Releases on DVD – March 2008

Richelle

August Rush
A charismatic young Irish guitarist and a sheltered young cellist have a chance encounter one magical night above New York’s Washington Square. They are soon torn apart, leaving in their wake an infant, August Rush, orphaned by circumstance. Now performing on the streets of New York City and cared for by a mysterious stranger, August uses his remarkable musical talent to seek the parents from whom he was separated at birth. Cast: Freddie Highmore, Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Terrence Howard, Robin Williams, William Sadler. Rated PG

Atonement
In 1935, a 13-year-old girl irrevocably changes the course of several lives when she accuses her older sister’s lover of a crime he did not commit. Cast: James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, Romola Garai, Saoirse Ronan, Vanessa Redgrave. Based on the novel by Ian McEwan. Rated R

Bee Movie
In this animated feature film, a bee with a life ambition to make honey decides to sue humans for eating his product. Featured voices: Jerry Seinfeld, Renée Zellweger, Matthew Broderick, Patrick Warburton, John Goodman, Chris Rock, Kathy Bates, Barry Levinson, Larry King, Ray Liotta, Sting, Oprah Winfrey, Larry Miller, Megan Mullally, Rip Torn. Rated PG

Beowulf
In a mystical time of monsters, demons and dragons, one man heroically rises above all others –his name is Beowulf. Cast: Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, John Malkovich, Robin Wright Penn, Brendan Gleeson, Crispin Glover, Alison Lohman, Angelina Jolie. Based on the epic poem Bewoulf. Rated PG-13

Chaos
After a deadly bank heist, Detectives Quentin Conners and Shane Dekker are drawn into a mysterious case where nothing is what it seems. Pulling the strings is a criminal mastermind who seems to kill without warning or reason. Abound with random acts of violence and deception, the only hope for survival is finding an order to the chaos. Cast: Jason Statham, Ryan Phillippe, Wesley Snipes, Justine Waddell, Henry Czerny. Rated R

Dan in Real Life
Dan Burns is a local newspaper advice columnist. He has three daughters and is a widower. Things get complicated when he finds out that the woman he falls in love with is actually his brother’s new girlfriend. Cast: Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook, John Mahoney, Emily Blunt, Dianne Wiest. Rated PG-13

Death at a Funeral
As the mourners and guests at a British country manor struggle to “keep a stiff upper lip,” a dignified ceremony devolves into a no-holds-barred debacle of misplaced cadavers, indecent exposure, and shocking family secrets. Cast: Ewen Bremner, Peter Dinklage, Matthew Macfadyen, Kris Marshall, Alan Tudyk. Rated R

Enchanted
The beautiful princess Giselle is banished from the animated land of Andalasia by the evil queen. She finds herself in the gritty streets of the real, modern-day Manhattan. Shocked by this strange new environment that does not operate on a “happily ever after” basis, Giselle find herself adrift in a chaotic world that is badly in need of enchantment. Giselle begins to fall in love with the cynical, no-nonsense divorce lawyer who has come to her aid. Little does he realize that this joyful, wide-eyed innocent is about to enchant him. Cast: Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, Timothy Spall, Idina Menzel, Susan Sarandon.PerformerNarrator, Julie Andrews ; voices: Jeff Bennett, Kevin Lima, Teala Dunn. Rated PG

Fierce People
Fierce People takes an inside look at the upper classes, examining the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of good manners. This unflinching drama exposes the trappings of wealth and privilege, and their overwhelming power to seduce and corrupt. Cast: Diane Lane, Anton Yelchin, Donald Sutherland, Kristen Stewart, Elizabeth Perkins, Paz De la Huerta and Chris Evans. Based on the book by Dirk Wittenborn. Rated R

I Am Legend
Robert Neville (Will Smith) is the last human survivor in what is left of New York City. A pandemic has left only 1% of the population alive and most of those who survived are no longer human. The infected, now lurking in the shadows, watch Neville’s every move. Perhaps mankind’s last, best hope, Neville is driven by the only one remaining mission: to find a way to reverse the effects of the virus using his own immune blood. Based on the novel by Richard Matheson. Rated PG-13

Into the Wild
Inspired by a true story, Christopher McCandless is a young man who abandons his life of comfort to pursue the freedom of life on the road, a quest that leads him to the Alaskan wilderness and the ultimate challenge of his life. Cast: Emile Hirsch, Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt, Jena Malone, Catherine Keener, Vince Vaughn, Kristen Stewart, Hal Holbrook. Based on the book by Jon Krakauer. Rated R

The Kite Runner
As young boys living in Afghanistan, Amir and Hassan were inseparable friends, until one fateful act tore them apart. Years later, Amir will embark on a dangerous quest to right the wrongs of the past. Cast: Khalid Abdalla, Homayoun Ershadi, Shaun Toub, Atossa Leoni, Saïd Taghmaoui. Based on the book by Khaled Hosseini. Rated PG-13

Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium
Mr. Magorium owns the most amazing store in the world, where all the toys literally come to life. When the boss decides to retire, the shop throws a tantrum, and all its wonders begin to cease. Now Mr. Magorium’s reluctant manager, skeptical accountant, and most loyal customer must work together to save the emporium by finding a little magic within themselves. Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Natalie Portman, Jason Bateman, Zach Mills. Rated G

No Country for Old Men
Llewelyn Moss is a Vietnam vet who could use a break. One morning while hunting antelope, he spies several trucks surrounded by dead bodies. He decides to examine the site. He finds a case filled with $2 million and a truck loaded with heroin. Moss takes it with him, tells his wife he’s going away for awhile, and hits the road until he can determine his next move. On his the way from El Paso to the Mexican border, he discovers he’s being followed by ex-special ops agent Chigurh. Cast: Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin. Based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy. Rated R

The Seeker
During Christmas break from school, a seemingly typical teenager discovers that he is anything but ordinary. As the seventh son of a seventh son, Will Stanton is The Seeker – a chosen warrior destined to restore the delicate earthly balance between Light and Dark. Guided by ancient protectors of the Light, young Will must travel through time to gather the hidden signs that hold the ultimate power to protect the world. Rated PG

Snow Buddies
The talking puppies are back, and this time they venture to the frosty arctic and team up with new friends in an exciting dogsled race across Alaska. When the going gets tough, the daring dogs have to band together with their new friends, Talon and Shasta, and muster up the courage to face the fur-raising challenges ahead. But will the puppies have what it takes to win the race and find their way back home? Voices: Kris Kristofferson, Josh Flitter, Henry Hodges, Liliana Mumy, Jimmy Bennett, Skyler Gisondo, Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Everett Scott, Molly Shannon, Dylan Sprouse, Lothaire Bluteau Paul Rae, Jim Belushi. Rated G

Sweeney Todd
Reinventing himself as Sweeney Todd, a man unjustly sent to prison returns to exact revenge on those who ruined his life, especially the evil Judge Turpin who sent the man to prison. Not only does he seek revenge for the cruel punishment he suffered in prison, but also for what happened to his wife and daughter. When he returns to his home town, he reopens his barber shop, where Mr. Todd becomes the Demon of Fleet Street. Mrs. Lovett is Sweeney’s amorous accomplice who creates diabolical meat pies out of the remains of Mr. Todd’s victims. Cast: Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman, Timothy Spall, Sacha Baron Cohen. Based on the musical by Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler and the musical adaptation by Christopher Bond. Rated R

Talk to Me
Washington, D.C., in the mid-to-late 1960s, vibrant soul music and exploding social consciousness were combining to become a unique and powerful effect. It was the place and time for Ralph Waldo “Petey” Greene, Jr. to fully express himself and “tell it like it is.” With the support of his irrepressible and tempestuous girlfriend Vernell, the new ex-con talks his way into an on-air radio gig. He forges a friendship and a partnership with Dewey Hughes. From the first wild morning on the air, Petey relies on the more straight-laced Dewey to run interference at WOL-AM, where Dewey is the program director. At the station, Petey quickly becomes an iconic radio personality. Combining biting humor with social commentary, Petey openly courts controversy for station owner E.G. Sonderling. Petey was determined to make not just himself but his community heard during this turbulent period in American history. As Petey’s voice, humor, and spirit surge across the airwaves with the vitality of the era, listeners tune in to hear not only incredible music but also a man speaking directly to them about race and power in America. Through the years, Petey’s style, on- and off-air – would redefine both Petey and Dewey, and empower each to become the man he would most like to be. Cast: Don Cheadle, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson, Mike Epps, Martin Sheen. Rated R

Things We Lost in the Fire
Audrey Burke is reeling from the news that her husband has been killed in a random act of violence. Once anchored by the love and comforts of their marriage, Audrey is now adrift. Impulsively, she turns to Jerry, a down-and-out addict who has been her husband’s close friend since childhood. Cast: Halle Berry, Benicio Del Toro, David Duchovny, Alison Lohman, Omar Benson Miller, John Carroll Lynch. Rated R

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

Richelle

The Bostonians
Olive, a militant suffragette, takes on the education of Verena, a brilliantly gifted but naive young girl. Olive wants to mold and use this gift for the feminist cause. But Verena is also loved by Basil Ransom, an impecunious young lawyer with views strenuously opposed to the Boston feminists. This 1984 production features Christopher Reeve, Vanessa Redgrave, Madeleine Potter, Jessica Tandy, Nancy Marchand, and Linda Hunt. Based on the novel by Henry James.

Buffalo Girls
Calamity Jane romances Wild Bill Hickok, befriends madam, and joins Wild West show in sprawling mini-series featuring Anjelica Houston, Melanie Griffith, Gabriel Byrne and Sam Elliott.
Comanche Moon
Texas Rangers Augustus McCrae and Woodrow F. Call are now young men dealing with the ever increasing tensions of adult life– Gus with his great love, Clara, and Call with Maggie, the young prostitute who is in love with him. McCrae and Call join a Ranger troop in pursuit of three outlaws: Comanche Chief Buffalo Hump, Comanche horse thief Kicking Wolf and Ahumado, the deadly Mexican bandit king with a penchant for slow torture. Together, they struggle to protect an advancing western frontier against the defiant Comanches who are determined to defend their territory and their way of life. Based on the novel by Larry McMurtry. Originally broadcast as a television mini-series in 2008. A prequel to the mini-series Lonesome Dove. Cast: Val Kilmer, Steve Zahn, Karl Urban, Linda Cardellini, Elizabeth Banks, Adam Beach, Rachel Griffiths, Wes Studi, Jonathan Joss, Sal Lopez.

Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Sixth Season
The sixth season of critical darling HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm delivers the same Larry David and his life of absurd self-sabotage that has entertained viewers for nearly a decade. Cast: Larry David, Cheryl Hines, Jeff Garlin, Wanda Sykes, Susie Essman, Richard Lewis, Viveca A. Fox. Originally broadcast as individual episodes of the television program in 2007. Rating: TV-MA.

Dr. Bell and Mr. Doyle
In 1878, when Mr. Doyle meets the brilliant teacher, Dr. Bell, the young medical student is drawn into a new world of crime investigation. As he assists Bell in solving gruesome police cases, Doyle becomes fascinated with his tutor’s uncanny talent for outwitting the most clever criminals. But, one particularly vicious cat-and-mouse game has a different ending. Doyle finds his life completely changed … and even Dr. Bell’s agile mind cannot predict the outcome. Cast: Ian Richardson, Sean Wightman, Robin Laing, Dolly Wells, Charles Dance, Ralph Riach, Aly Bain, Andrew John Tait. Originally released as a motion picture in 2000. MPAA rating: Not rated.

14 Hours
A young man, morally destroyed by his parents not loving him and by the fear of not being capable to make his girlfriend happy, keeps police at bay for fourteen hours while attempting suicide. Cast: Paul Douglas, Richard Basehart, Barbara Bel Geddes, Debra Paget, Grace Kelly, Agnes Moorehead, Robert Keith. Originally released as a motion picture in 1951. Based on a true story written by Joel Sayre in the New Yorker. Not Rated.

Jericho of Scotland Yard 2
Inspector Michael Jericho (Robert Lindsay) is a brilliant detective and a darling of the media. However he is haunted by the memories of his father a policeman whose murder Jericho witnessed as a boy. Never married and alone since his childhood sweetheart left him for another during WWII Jericho is obsessed with his work at Scotland Yard. Yet he finds himself drawn to his beautiful French neighbor Juliette (Aurelie Bargeme)- a prostitute with a tortured past. Set amidst the social upheaval of post-war 1950s London Jericho unravels headline-grabbing mysteries. His diligent team includes faithful friend and colleague Detective Sergeant Clive Harvey (David Troughton) and the ambitious young Detective Constable John Caldicott (Ciaran McMenamin) Originally produced for Mystery! PBS television program in 2005.

Murder Rooms: The Dark Beginnings of Sherlock Holmes
The story of the relationship between the young Arthur Conan Doyle and his real-life mentor and noted forensic scientist, Dr. Joseph Bell, as they unite to solve the most baffling murder cases in Victorian Scotland. A 2001 BBC TV production featuring Charles Edwards and Ian Richardson.

The New Adventures of Old Christine: Season 1
Single working mom Christine Campbell has just learned that her ex is dating a much younger woman with the same first name. To avoid any confusion, the new girlfriend is dubbed New Christine, which leaves her with the unfortunate nickname Old Christine. Christine struggles to hold it together as she adjusts to her new nickname, confronts the meanie moms at her son’s private school, jumps back in the dating pool– and gets laughs every misstep of the way. Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Clark Gregg, Hamish Linklater, Trevor Gagnon, Emily Rutherford, Tricia O’Kelley, Alex Kapp Horner. Originally broadcast on television in 2006. Contains all 13 episodes from the first season.

Peter and Paul
This 1981 television drama examines the development of the early Christian church and the roles of the apostles Peter and Paul. Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Robert Foxworth, Eddie Albert, Raymond Burr, Jose Ferrer, John Finch.Summary

The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes
When a beautiful woman claims that her dear husband has disappeared the investigation takes Sherlock Holmes (Robert Stephens) and Dr. Watson (Colin Blakely) to Scotland where – to their surprise – they uncover a plot involving a clandestine society Her Majesty’s Secret Service… and the Loch Ness Monster! But before he can deduce matters to the elementary. Holmes makes an error that may jeopardize the national safety of Britain… and ruin his reputation! Cast: Robert Stephens, Colin Blakely, Geneviève Page, Christopher Lee. MPAA rating: PG13.

Speed
An L.A.P.D. SWAT team specialist is sent to diffuse a bomb that a revenge-driven extortionist has planted on a bus. Until he does, he and a female passenger must keep the bus speeding through the streets of Los Angeles at more than 50 miles per hour or the bomb will explode. Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper, Sandra Bullock, Joe Morton, Jeff Daniels. Rated R

Speed 2
A young woman and her boyfriend set out on a luxurious Caribbean cruise liner, but their trip to paradise turns deadly when a lunatic computer genius takes over the boat and sets it on a course for destruction. Cast: Sandra Bullock, Jason Patric, Willem Dafoe, Temuera Morrison, Glenn Plummer. Rated PG-13

Tin Man
Dorothy Gale, a.k.a. DG, is all grown up and bored. She mopes around working as a waitress and goes to school part time. Before she knows it, she’s back in OZ and on the run from the evil sorceress Azkadellia, her storm troopers and clumsy bats. Along the way she falls in with some strange characters including the brainless Glitches; Raw, a cowardly and psychic lion-man hybrid; and, Wyatt Cain, a cowboy cop from Central City called a ‘tin man’ because of his tin badge. Cast: Zooey Deschanel, Alan Cumming, Neal McDonough, Kathleen Robertson, Raoul Trujillo, Callum Keith Rennie, Anna Galvin, Ted Whittall, Richard Dreyfuss. Originally broadcast on the Science Fiction Channel Dec. 2-4, 2007.

Tommy & Tuppence Partners in Crime. Set 1
Tommy & Tuppence Partners in Crime. Set 2
Agatha Christie ‘s husband-and-wife sleuthing team (Francesca Annis and James Warwick) take on a series of short whodunits.

A Touch of Frost Season 6
Award-winning British actor, David Jason, is Jack Frost, a no-nonsense detective whose unorthodox methods fuel the tension between him and his superiors. Based on the novels of R.D. Wingfield.

Barbara Taylor Bradford’s A Woman of Substance Trilogy
The story of Emma Harte, a bright and ambitious servant girl who overcomes her impoverished Yorkshire beginnings in her quest to become an international retailing magnate and one of the richest women in the world comes full circle when Emma’s granddaughter must struggle against powerful enemies to keep the family’s retail empire from collapsing. Cast: Jenny Seagrove, Liam Neeson, Deborah Kerr, Barry Bostwick, Stephen Collins, James Brolin, Lindsay Wagner, Anthony Hopkins, Stephanie Beacham, Christopher Cazenove.

Everything You Want
When Abby meets Quinn on campus, she faces an awesome dilemma: choose between her oh-so-perfect, but imaginary, boyfriend and this flesh-and-blood reality. Cast: Nick Zano, Shrir Appleby, Alexandra Holden, Orlando Seale, Edie McClurg, Will Friedle. TVPG.

New Mysteries – March 2008

Lynne

The Anatomy of Deception Lawrence Goldstone – A forensic thriller from 1889 Philadelphia features Dr. Carroll as he grapples with the principles of the scientific process to track a daring killer.

The Apostate’s Tale Margaret Frazer – In the spring of 1452, Dame Frevisse is reunited with a lost soul she never expected to see again. This is the latest title in a popular series.

As the World Churns Tamar Myers – Mennonite innkeeper Magdalena Yoder may be newly married, but she is still faced with a new mystery at the Hernia Holstein Competition.

Blue Heaven C.J. Box – A ticking-clock plot finds rancher Jess Rawlins hoping to protect two children who were unintended witnesses to murder, from the author of the Joe Pickett novels.

The Book of Old Houses Sarah Graves – Jacobia Tiptree discovers a mysterious book during the course of her renovation of an 1823 house in a quaint seaside town in Maine.

The Chameleon’s Shadow Minette Walters – When British lieutenant Charles Acland returns from Iraq with a serious head injury, his personality is changed, but would he be capable of murder?

Death of a Gentle Lady M.C. Beaton – The elderly Mrs. Gentle may not be all that she appeared, especially after she is found murdered.

Down Into Darkness David Lawrence – London Detective Stella Mooney is faced with a series of gruesome murders that are connected, but how?

Extracurricular Activities Maggie Barbieri – Alison Bergeron, English professor, is involved in cozy murder replete with romance, humor and suspense.

The Eye of Jade Diane Wei Liang – Mei Wang is a modern, independent woman in today’s Beijing. She is also the city’s first successful female private investigator.

Gas City Loren D. Estleman – The black heart of Gas City is exposed in this tale of lust, power, revenge and madness.

Hand of Evil J. A. Jance – Ali Reynolds becomes involved in a series of grisly murders committed by a killer who is crisscrossing the Southwest.

The Mortal Groove Ellen Hart – Jane Lawless, restaurateur and amateur sleuth is celebrating New Year’s Eve when her party takes a different turn.

Of Blood and Sorrow Valerie Wilson Wesley – Private investigator, Tamara Hayle discovers how the ties that bind can also become a noose.

A Pale Horse Charles Todd – Scotland Yard Inspector Ian Rutledge is searching for a missing man, but the result is a shocking killing spree.

Person of Interest Theresa Schwegel – Leslie McHugh is married to an undercover cop, who has more secrets that even she is willing to ignore.

Plum Lucky Janet Evanovich – Stephanie Plum is back with a between-the-numbers, off-the-wall mystery caper.

Prayer of the Dragon Eliot Pattison – Former Beijing investigator, Shan Tao Yun is on parole from a Tibetan work camp when his skills are needed after two men are murdered in a remote village.

The Purrfect Murder Rita Mae Brown & Sneaky Pie Brown – Is Mrs. Murphy and her associate Mary Minor a match for a killer who has made everyone in Crozet, Virginia a suspect?

Saturday’s Child Ray Banks – A hard-boiled British mystery that features Cal Innes who is fresh out of prison, by a writer who has been compared to Ian Rankin.

The Seduction of the Crimson Rose Lauren Willig – Another episode from the Pink Carnation series featuring Lord Vaughn who is a British spy during the Napoleonic era.

The Serpent’s Daughter Suzanne Arruda – Adventure and suspense abound as American adventuress Jade del Cameron faces murder and a kidnapping in 1920’s Tangier.

Stranger in Paradise Robert B. Parker – Police Chief Jesse Stone faces his most fearsome adversary in this latest book by the author of the famed Spenser novels.

T is for Trespass Sue Grafton – The latest Kinsey Millhone adventure may be her most unsettling to date.

Three Shirt Deal Stephen J. Cannell – LAPD detective Shane Scully fights to save a man railroaded for murder.

Touchstone Laurie R. King – Intrigue, terrorism and explosive passions ignite after a visit to a remote cottage in Cornwall and a meeting with the man code-named Touchstone.

Voices Arnaldur Indriđason – The author of Silence of the Grave, the Gold Dagger award-winner, returns with another Icelandic mystery featuring Inspector Erlendur Sveinsson.

Watchman Ian Rankin – Miles Flint, government spy, has been making some serious mistakes, but something else is wrong at the agency that has nothing to do with his errors.