It’s another busy week of new release on video shelves, with a couple of big Hollywood releases and a bunch of interesting independent films. So, if you can’t make it out to the movies, there are plenty of options. Check them out!
Big New Releases!
Blackfish – This harrowing documentary received near universal praise upon its release earlier in the year. It explores the subject of killer whales, including their treatment at theme parks and the many deaths they have caused and suffering they have been victim to while placed in captivity. The subject matter is grim and certainly not for the kids, but for curious viewers it should present some shocking revelations.
Frances Ha – Another critical darling, this independent comedy/drama from acclaimed director Noah Baumbach (The Squid and the Whale) follows the title character, a New York City free-spirit determined to follow her dreams. Greta Gerwig stars and co-wrote the screenplay. If quirky is your thing, this is probably a must see. And to avoid any confusion, the movie was shot in black and white, so don’t try to adjust your set when you don’t see any color on your screen after putting it on.
I Declare War – This new, independent release got quite a reaction from audiences at film festivals and is now debuting on video. A modern update of themes explored in Lord of the Flies, this effort follows a group of children in the woods playing war. As events take a more violent and serious turn, their sticks and rocks become guns and grenades. While a few film festival attendees were shocked, it reportedly received a lot of adoration and should be great viewing for those wanting provocative material. This title comes from Drafthouse Films, who have also put out unusual indie fare like Wrong, Klown and A Band Called Death.
Ip Man: The Final Fight – In Hong Kong and China, there have been several Ip Man bio-pics about the much beloved, real-life martial arts instructor (movie ads in North America always make mention of the fact that, late in life, he trained Bruce Lee). The 2008 version of Ip Man is an extremely well regarded action film and worth checking out if you haven’t seen it. This latest adaptation follows an older Ip Man as he takes on the dangerous Triads. Reportedly, there is less of an emphasis on martial arts and more focus on drama this time out, which led to mixed reviews. Still, action fans who don’t mind reading a few extra subtitles between the fights may want to give it a try.
Man of Steel – One of the biggest and most divisive flicks of the summer makes its video debut. Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Russell Crowe and Kevin Costner star in this reboot of the Superman saga, which presents a much moodier origin story of the comic book hero. Both critics and audiences were split right down the middle about the film, though it seems likely that those who grew up with the Christopher Reeve series will not be impressed with the new direction. Read the original review here. Additionally, those interested in learning more about Superman in cinema might want to check out some remarkable facts about all of the films past and present here.
Not Fade Away – The Sopranos creator David Chase confused a lot of people with this tale of a New Jersey based band struggling in the late 1960’s. It got a lot of mixed reviews upon its release, with many criticizing its inability to wrap up various subplots… but maybe that was the idea. Now renters can make up their own minds. And yes, Sopranos star James Gandolfini is briefly featured in the film.
Prince Avalanche – Here’s yet another low-key comedy/drama that scored with the press. Paul Rudd and Emile Hirsch play two oddballs who carry on some unusual conversations while painting traffic lines down country roads. With an excellent cast, it may be a unique experience for more adventurous renters. Director David Gordon Green has been veering from smaller movies (Snow Angels) to Hollywood flicks (Pineapple Express and Your Highness) – this title marks his return to independent cinema.
Turbo – This animated adventure was a big box office flop this summer, but it got decent reviews and should satisfy little tykes. Made by the same studio behind the Madagascar films, the story follows a snail who dreams of winning the Indy 500 and gets an opportunity after a strange accident gives him super-speed. The impressive voice cast includes Ryan Reynolds, Paul Giamatti, Michael Pena, Samuel L. Jackosn, Luiz Guzman, Bill Hader, Snoop Dogg, Maya Rudolph, Richard Jenkins, Ken Jeong and, of course, Mario Andretti.
Blasts from the Past!
Body Bags – Shout! Factory’s line of horror films brings us another lost cult item. This 1993 anthology film from director John Carpenter and Tobe Hooper isn’t the highlight of either director’s career, but it has always had something of a following. Unfortunately when the flick premiered on home video back in the 90’s, it was heavily censored. This new Blu-ray release finally presents the film “uncut” with all of the gruesome bits intact and features a commentary on each of the three segments. Guest speakers include Carpenter and Hooper, as well as actors Robert Carradine, Stacy Keach and Mark Hamill. Fans of John Capenter and/or Tobe Hooper may want to pick this curiosity up!
Nosferatu – Those interested in horror classics may also want to pick up Kino’s newly transferred, high quality Blu-ray of this 1922 masterpiece. The disc features multiple versions of the title and lengthy documentaries that will impress armchair film historians.
You Know, For Kids!
Turbo – This is definitely the kids pick of the week – please see above for a write up.
On the Tube!
There are some interesting releases on TV as well, including the last season of Dexter. But comedy fans should take note of Burning Love. Originally a web series created by star Ken Marino of Children’s Hospital and Party Down fame, the show also ended up airing on TV. Featuring some surprising star cameos and very funny performances, it hilariously lampoons dating shows like The Bachelor. Burning Love is really funny stuff – to read more about the show, check out the site’s interview with Marino here.
Burning Love: The Complete 1st Season
The Best of Dance Moms – The Championship Dances
Deadliest Catch: Season 8
Dexter: The Complete Final Season
Family Ties: The Complete Series
Last Tango in Halifax: Season 1
MADtv: Season 4
The Paradise: Season 1
The Silk: Season 1