DVD Roundup for June 24th, 2025

June 23, 2025

Welcome to another look at highlights arriving on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD. After a quiet edition, this one is so jam-packed with material that it’s going to be difficult to get through it all. There are numerous high- profile releases, as well as many independents (so much that one wonders why one or two couldn’t have arrived last week. Whatever the case, there is definitely something here for everyone. So, if you can’t make it out to the movies, be sure to give one of these titles a try!

BIG NEW RELEASES!

CONSUMED – After her cancer goes into remission, a woman decides to take a hiking trip with her husband to a remote, wooded area. This is a horror movie, so they soon find themselves dealing with both a serial killer hiding out nearby, as well as a horrific monster ready to rip the skin off of their bodies. And if that wasn’t enough, the lead may also be hiding more about her current condition than her husband knows. This independent chiller was not well-received by the press. About one-third of reviews commented that the film was impressively mounted and they appreciated that the story attempted to deal with serious and relatable issues. Unfortunately, the majority didn’t think the movie was tense or that it handled its dramatic elements in a convincing manner. It stars Devon Sawa, Mark Faminglietti, Courtney Halverson and Amber Mari.

EEPHUS – An old, recreational baseball field is set for demolition so that a middle school can be built on the site. Two teams of local players from all walks of life arrive to play their final game there. Over the course of a couple of hours, they share their thoughts and memories of the park as its time comes to an end. Reaction towards this independent comedy/drama has been uniformly positive. All reviewers called the movie a low-key but relatable and oddly powerful narrative that uses its setting brilliantly. They admired how the filmmakers used the park as a source of humor and nostalgia, as well as a metaphor for life in general, as the characters dealt with the loss in unexpected ways. The cast includes Frederick Wiseman, Bill Lee, Keith William Richards, Wayne Diamond, Cliff Blake, Joe Castiglione, Keith Poulson, Conner Marx, Paul Kandarian and Jeff Saint-Dic.

THE FEATHERWEIGHT – In this period narrative drama set in 1964, a documentary crew follows a retired featherweight boxing champion. The years following the pugilist’s career have not been kind. Those following the man’s daily life see that the world has generally forgotten about him, while debts have piled up, his marriage is on the rocks, and his son becomes a drug addict. With nothing going his way, the aged lead considers returning to the ring. The film earned some attention at film festivals over 2023 and 2024, eventually landing a distribution deal with Tribeca Films. Critics were generally upbeat about it. A small continent complained that while the indie feature did a good job of recreating the era, the story was formulaic and didn’t present a relatable lead or give reason to care about his plight. Still, the consensus was that the picture offered good performances and impressively detailed the personal struggles of athletes as their career and wealth fades. It features James Madio, Ruby Wolf, Keir Gilchrist, Stephen Lang, Ron Livingston, Lawrence Gilliard Jr. and Shari Albert.

LONG LONESOME HIGHWAY: THE STORY OF MICHAEL PARKS – Late actor Michael Parks appeared in hundreds of film and TV productions over his performing career. While he initially gained attention starring in the late 1960s television Then Came Bronson, his disputes with producers resulted in Parks being informally blacklisted in Hollywood. He continued working in B-movies, eventually earning the admiration of many moviemakers and actors, leading to a career resurgence in the mid-1990s in films by Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez and Kevin Smith. This documentary tells his life story, featuring archival interviews with the actor, family members, in addition to those who appreciated his work and/or appeared on camera with him. Interviewees include Rodriguez and Smith, as well as Kurt Russell, Wyatt Russell, Mark Frost, Robert Kurtzman, Justin Long, Leonard Maltin, Haley Joel Osment and more. There aren’t many write-ups for the picture so far, but those that have been posted state the movie is a nice tribute to the actor. For the time being, this is a DVD-only release.

A MINECRAFT MOVIE – The year’s highest grossing film (so far) is an adaptation of the hugely popular video game series. It tells the story of a doorknob salesman who disappears into a portal leading to a strange world made up of building cubes. Years later, two orphans arrive in the same town as the salesman. They discover the portal and enter this alternate universe with two adults. The group discover that they must use their building skills to stop a sinister force from crossing over into our world. This picture was a huge success with the public, but it split reviewers. Almost half called the movie a quirky and silly blast. They were charmed by its eccentric sense of humor and performances, stating that the end result was a lot of fun. But the same number and a few more didn’t find the jokes funny. They also thought the story skewed too young and were unimpressed. The feature can be purchased on 4K Ultra HD only, as well as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Steelbook, a Blu-ray only disc, and a “Crafting Table Edition” Blu-ray/DVD Walmart exclusive. Jason Momoa, Jack Black, Sebastian Hansen, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks and Jennifer Coolidge, Rachel House, Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie headline the film. Read a full review of the film here.

THE MONKEY – Based on the Stephen King short story, this darkly comic creeper (from the director of Longlegs) follows two twin brothers who have spent most of their lives trying to rid themselves of a toy originally owned by their father. It seems the monkey plaything is possessed by an evil force, causing death to those who come into contact with it. The item comes back into the siblings’ lives, and the two vow to finally get rid of it once and for all. Reaction was quite positive towards this feature. A small number didn’t care for the mix of humor and horror, stating the yuks undermined the tension and that they became tired of the story’s repetitive structure. However, the general consensus was that this picture was enjoyably bonkers, with likable lead performances, and outrageously violent and inventive death sequences that would please genre enthusiasts. The movie can be picked up in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo or as a Blu-ray-only release. It stars Theo James, Tatiana Maslany, Christian Convery, Colin O’Brien, Adam Scott and Elija Wood.

NOVOCAINE – A lonely, mild-mannered bank manager with an unusual medical condition falls for an employee. The protagonist makes a connection with her and reveals that his problem involves nerves that can’t register pain. The next day, a violent bank robbery occurs and his potential love connection is kidnapped. He decides that, no matter the physical cost to his body, he will track the hoods down to save his true love. Critics were generally upbeat towards this action/comedy. A small number liked the conceit, but didn’t the film didn’t make clever use of it, instead repeating the same joke until all the laughs dried up. However, the majority thought the lead performer was charming and that the nasty action sequences were creative and well-handled. This picture is available in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo, as well as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Amazon exclusive Steelbook. The cast includes Jack Quaid, Amber Midthunder, Ray Nicholson and Betty Gabriel. Click the link to read a detailed review of the movie.

ON SWIFT HORSES – Based on a popular 2019 novel, this period drama tells the story of a woman who marries a Korean War veteran. She finds herself questioning her decision after spending time with his charismatic brother. Personal details are revealed as the sibling suddenly moves to Las Vegas and gets involved with another man. After the wife relocates with her spouse to San Diego, she begins to fall for a female neighbor, resulting in domestic drama. Response to this title was split right down the middle. Half of reviewers found the characters too repressed and couldn’t get involved in their struggles, also complaining that the ending didn’t move them emotionally. The same number felt that while the picture had its flaws, it was well-acted, gorgeously shot and effectively detailed how all of these characters were hiding their truest feelings and desires from society. For now, the picture is being released exclusively on DVD. It features Daisy Edgar-Jones, Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Diego Calva and Sasha Calle. Read this site’s take on the feature here.

RED ISLAND – Told from the point of view of a child, this French feature is set in 1970s Madagascar. A boy lives on a military base with his family and tries to enjoy himself on this beautiful, seemingly idyllic island. But as time passes and he spends more time at home and with residents, he begins to discover hidden secrets. The lead eventually starts to question the politics and tangled lives of everyone around him. This foreign-language picture earned solid notices. A small number suggested that the various story threads didn’t come together in a satisfying way and that they had hoped for a clearer and more obvious message from the filmmaker. Yet far more complimented the performances and the look of the movie, stating that it sensitively dealt with a child slowly understanding colonialism and the world around him as a less-than-ideal set-up. Nadia Tereszkiewicz, Quim Gutiérrez and Charlie Vauselle headline the film.

SATAN WANTS YOU – Horror movie enthusiasts may find something of interest in this documentary that details the “Satanic Panic” of the 1980s. An American psychiatrist wrote a pulpy memoir with his patient in 1980 about her being kidnapped as a child by Satanists. When media outlets got a hold of the story, the authors became guests on notable daytime television shows. Their dubious story terrified conservative families, resulting in disturbing countermeasures, including wrongful prosecutions and convictions. The film tells the story of what occurred and its effects on the population. This effort was very well-received. One or two voices felt that the movie was too focused on the specific case and should have focused on the bigger, long- reaching and long-lasting effects of mass hysteria. Still, everyone else called it an excellent, enlightening exposé about “moral panics”, the irrational fear it can inspire in others, and the terrible acts that ultimately follow.

SNEAKS – This animated feature follows the adventures of a sneaker. When a high school basketball player gets a pair of highly sought-after running shoes, the footwear is also thrilled to find a home. But the central shoe experiences a shock when its other sneaker, who he considers his sister, is stolen by a collector. The protagonist ends up traveling to New York City and meeting a rag-tag group of shoes from all walks of life, who try to help rescue the missing footwear. Critics were not taken with this animated comedy. A few stated that the movie skewed extremely young, admitting that little kids would enjoy the story and that at least it had a lot of heart. Unfortunately, the general consensus was that the narrative was odd and the plot offered no surprises. They also commented that it didn’t look as visually impressive as other animated features on the market. For the time being, this is a DVD-only release. The voice cast includes Anthony Mackie, Martin Lawrence, Chloe Bailey, Laurence Fishburne, Roddy Ricch, Macy Gray, Swae Lee, Chris Paul, Mustard and Keith David.

SNOW WHITE – Disney’s live-action reimagining of their famous 1937 animated adaptation of the Brothers Grimm fairy tale is now appearing on disc. This version follows a young and beautiful princess who loses her parents and is targeted by a new, sinister Queen. Frustrated that Snow White is the fairest one of all, the royal figure attempts to have the protagonist killed. She escapes and is helped by the Seven Dwarfs and a group of bandits. This title didn’t go over well with the press. Slightly more than one-third enjoyed enough of the modernizations, particularly lead Snow White and her love interest, to give it passing marks. Still, most stated that the film was a bit of a mess, with bland storytelling, odd depictions of the Dwarfs and lacking tension or thrills. The picture is available as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Steelbook, a standalone Blu-ray only, or a standard DVD. Rachel Zegler, Emilia Faucher, Gal Gadot and Andrew Burnap headline the feature. A full review of the film can be found right here.

THE WAIT – An Andalusian gamekeeper living with his son on a farm accepts a bribe from a suspicious figure. A horrible tragedy occurs, causing the man’s entire life to fall apart. The shocked and angry protagonist is warned by others that his land is cursed and not to follow his instincts and take revenge. He ignores the advice, violently attacking those he believes to be responsible and transforming into something hideous as a result. This Spanish horror film with western elements earned plenty of praise from reviewers. There were a handful of write-ups that did call the film overly serious, saying that the multitude of plot twists eventually became silly. Regardless, the consensus was that this foreign-language morality thriller was well-acted, stylish and atmospheric, drawing viewers in with its harrowing story and never letting up for a moment. It stars Victor Clavijo, Ruth Diaz, Moisés Ruiz and Pedro Casablanc.

WHEN WE WENT MAD! THE UNAUTHORIZED STORY OF MAD MAGAZINE – Also known simply as When We Went MAD!, this documentary details the history of the legendary humor/parody magazine. The film crew talks to the writers, artists and editors who made significant contributions, while also examining its cultural influence during its height of popularity. Celebrity readers also share their thoughts on the publication and their favorite pieces. The movie features artists and writers like Sergio Aragonés, Mort Drucker, Jack Davis and Al Jaffe, along with fans like Quentin Tarantino, Bryan Cranston, Judd Apatow, Gilbert Gottfried, ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic, Howie Mandel, Daivd Zucker, Jimmy Kimmel, Howard Stern and others. Looks like a lot of fun for anyone who enjoyed reading the magazine as a kid, teen or adult. This independent documentary was partially funded through Kickstarter and is debuting on disc as a DVD-only release.

BLASTS FROM THE PAST!

Those looking for impressive upgrades of older titles have just as many options. Arrow Video is putting out the science-fiction thriller Dark City (1998) as a “Limited Edition” 4K Ultra HD 2-disc set, and as a “Limited Edition” 2-disc Blu-ray. This feature from Alex Proyas (The Crow) stars Rufus Sewell as a man who wakes up in a strange city where the sun doesn’t shine and no memories of his past. He tries to find out what is going on and encounters threatening figures. This set contains the theatrical version and the superior director’s cut in 4K. The original 35mm camera negative was scanned in 4K for this release, while the unique bits from the director’s cut were sourced and incorporated from a 2K master, all approved by cinematographer Dariusz Wolski. It all looks pretty seamless.

As far as bonuses go, you’ll receive a 2008 director introduction to the film, five commentary tracks that include a 2025 and 2008 commentary from Proyas, a new film critic track, a screenwriter commentary, and an additional track from late critic Roger Ebert. There is an hour-long new piece about the making of the movie with cast and crew interviews, two visual essays on the film, design and storyboard art, an archival making-of featurette from 2008, video interviews with four critics and the director talking about the meaning of the movie, and publicity materials. It also comes in an elaborate case with a reversible sleeve, a booklet, a 60-page book on the production, as well as a poster, reproduction art cards, a postcard, business card for a character and more. A full disc review can be found by clicking this link.

You can also pick up a Blu-ray of the period Japanese title, The Invisible Swordsman (1970). It follows a swordfighter who isn’t particularly good at his job. When his father is murdered, he meets a mysterious figure who offers him a potion that will turn him invisible, allowing him to effectively hunt down the killers responsible. The high-def master for the film was given to Arrow by the Japanese distributor. This effort comes with a film historian commentary track, a Kim Newman interview in which he discusses movies with invisible characters, a look at the visual effects in the film, and an image gallery. It comes with a booklet containing an essay on the title, and reversible cover art.

Radiance Films is delivering a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo pack of Palindromes (2004) from Todd Solondz (Welcome to the Dollhouse, Happiness). This disturbing but very effective dark comedy involves a 13-year-old who wants nothing more than to get pregnant. When she finds that she is expecting, her parents are furious. Numerous events follow that lead the teen down a strange and disturbing path as she attempts to find herself. The story is told in episodes with a wide array of different actresses portraying the main character. For this release, the movie was restored in 4K by The Museum of Modern Art and approved by Solondz. The disc contains a 27-minute interview with Solondz, an audio interview with co-star Alexander Rickel, a visual essay on the film and a trailer. A Blu-ray only version is also available. Read a full disc review right here.

If you were interested in the Daiei Gothic: Japanese Ghost Stories Blu-ray set from a few months ago, each of the individual discs in the collection are now available separately. They include The Ghost of Yotsuya (1959), The Bride from Hades (1968) and The Snow Woman (1968). All are interesting and stylish films that come with some nifty bonuses. Additionally, the studio is rereleasing the slick and entertaining Black Tight Killers (1966) on Blu-ray.

The Tale of Oiwa’s Ghost (1961) is a supernatural Japanese tale about a down-on-his-luck samurai who plots an elaborate scheme to win back his estranged wife. Unfortunately, he doesn’t take into account a spirit that doesn’t approve of his actions. This Blu-ray contains a high-definition transfer from Toei Co. Ltd., along with a critic introduction to the movie, an interview with the same critic analyzing the film, and an overview of the source material. A booklet with an essay on the movie is another added element. Read a complete disc review of this release here.

Here’s a fun (if somewhat disturbing) one. The Scare Film Archives Volume 2: Danger Stories is arriving this week from AGFA. It contains 13 educational safety-scare films made between 1951 and 1982 that were created to frighten children into following safety protocols. In addition to the shorts, you’ll also get a commentary track on Shake Hands with Danger and Mr. Flame, as well as an hour-long “remix” featuring clips from various titles in this and other archives.

Big World Pictures is putting out a double-feature Blu-ray containing the European documentary titles The Monopoly of Violence (2020) and A German Youth (2015). It comes with extra short films, trailers and a booklet with essays on the pictures.

Action: The October Crisis of 1970 (1974) is arriving on Blu-ray from Canadian International Pictures. This is a historical account of a French-Canadian terrorist kidnapping incident in Quebec and the extreme reaction taken by then-Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. The film has been scanned and restored in 2K from the 16mm interpositive by the National Film Board of Canada. Extras include two film expert audio commentaries, new interviews with a professor and with NFB curator on the events, and a 1973 hour-long documentary on English-speaking Canada’s perspective on the crisis. It also comes with a booklet containing essays on the film.

Cinematographe is presenting Female Perversions (1996) on Blu-ray. It stars Tilda Swinton as a female attorney dealing with meaningless sex with various male and female partners, as well as troubling family issues. The movie arrives with a new picture restoration from the original camera negative, a film historian commentary, video interviews with the co-writer/director, the other co-writer, the cinematographer, as well as three cast member interviews.

A “Standard Edition” Blu-ray of Joy of Sex (1984) is also arriving from the distributor. This is a coming-of-age story from director Martha Coolidge (Valley Girl, Real Genius, Rambling Rose) about a teen who decides to lose her virginity after learning that she might be dying. Apparently, the director butted heads with Paramount executives, which resulted in some unfortunate cuts to the film, but the title still has its fans. The Blu-ray contains an impressive 4K restoration from the original camera negative, a film historian commentary, a new interview with Coolidge, a discussion with the movie’s screenwriters, a talk with co-star Colleen Camp, an interview with Lisa Langlois, and a video essay on Coolidge.

A personal favorite of this writer is being released this week via Criterion. Sorcerer (1977) from director William Friedkin (The French Connection, The Exorcist) is getting a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo release, as well as a Blu-ray only edition. It stars Roy Scheider as one of a group of desperate men from around the world who are hiding out in Central America. Living in poverty and desperate for cash, they accept work on a dangerous mission to transport trucks filled with unstable nitroglycerin through the jungle. It’s an incredibly tense picture filled with memorable characters, not to mention authentically dangerous-looking driving sequences.

The movie has received a 4K restoration in Dolby Vision approved by director Friedkin. Included on the release is a 2018 documentary on the production, a conversation on the title between a film critic and director/fan of the film James Gray, archival audio interviews with the screenwriter and the editor, a 2015 conversation with Friedkin on the movie, behind-the-scenes production footage, a trailer, and a booklet containing an essay on the title.

Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould (1993) is a beloved, award-winning Canadian biopic about classical pianist Glenn Gould (played by Colm Feore) that is made up of various vignettes detailing specific events in his life. For decades, the picture has only been available on a long out-of-print DVD. Now, the film is finally arriving in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set or as a Blu-ray-only release. For this release, the 4K restoration was supervised and approved by director Francois Girard (The Red Violin, The Song of Names). It contains a new commentary with Girard and co-star Don McKellar, a conversation between Girard and filmmaker Atom Egoyan, two 1959 companion programs about the artist, and archival interviews with star Feore and the producer.

Cult Epics is putting out a Rutger Hauer – Sylvia Kristel Double-Feature Blu-ray containing the Dutch pictures Mysteries (1978) and Pastorale 1943 (1978). The disc contains 2K transfers of the movies, audio commentaries, interviews and publicity materials.

If you’re a fan of the Nicolas Cage horror film Longlegs (2024), Decal Releasing is presenting a 4K Ultra HD Steelbook of the film. Press releases for this edition promise that, in addition to the fancy packaging, a few never-before-seen bonus features will be included on the disc.

Film Masters is delivering a Blu-ray of The Blood of Jesus (1941), a drama about a woman who finds herself caught in between Heaven and Hell after being contacted by an agent of the Devil. The film has been newly restored in HD for this release.

Convict’s Code (1939) is about, appropriately enough, a convict just released from prison (for a crime he didn’t commit). He tries to make a new start and falls for a woman, only to learn that her brother was the crook who set him up. The lead must decide whether or not to take revenge. Like the previous title from the distributor, the movie has been newly restored in HD for Blu-ray.

Film Movement is presenting A Life in Dirty Movies (2013), a documentary about sexploitation filmmaker Joe Sarno and his attempts to get one more picture made at the age of 88. This Blu-ray contains a director commentary, bonus interviews from adult industry players, and a film historian essay.

The distributor is also putting out a Blu-ray of the Mexican neo-western Time to Die (1966), about a former gunman who tries to make a new life for himself after serving time, only to have the sons of a man he killed try to take vengeance on him. Nobel Prize winner Gabriel García Márquez wrote the screenplay. The film has been restored in 2K for this release, and arrives with a director commentary, and an introduction from moviemaker and film historian Alex Cox. A booklet with an essay on the movie is also included.

Breaking Glass (1980) is arriving on Blu-ray from Fun City Editions. It’s a British cult film about the London punk and new wave scene and a young singer/songwriter trying to catch her big break. The specs include a new restoration of the uncut UK version from archival film elements (prepared at Paramount Pictures), as well as an audio commentary, an interview with the producer, an image gallery, and a booklet with new essays on the movie. The first copies come with a double-sided wrap with legacy artwork for the feature.

The Australian thriller Sleeping Beauty (2011) is arriving on Blu-ray from IFC Films. Emily Browning stars in this tale of a university student drawn into an unusual profession that involves sleeping untouched in a bed alongside paying customers. The disc includes a film critic commentary, and a booklet with writing on the movie.

Kino is having a busy week as well. You can pick up the Audie Murphy Collection V, a Blu-ray box set containing the westerns Walk the Proud Land (1956), Seven Ways from Sundown (1960) and Bullet for a Badman (1964). All the pictures come with critic commentaries and trailers.

The Blues Under the Skin (1973) is a documentary about twelve incredible blues artists, including Buddy Guy, BB King, Mance Lipscomb, Robert Pete Williams and Roosevelt Sykes. It includes performances and interviews with the musicians. This Blu-ray lists a 30-minute interview with the director, 10 minutes of deleted scenes, and trailers as bonus features.

Handsome Harry (2009) follows an ex-Navy man trying to carry out the dying wish of a shipmate. Secrets are revealed in the process. This indie drama features Jamey Sheridan, Steve Buscemi, Aidan Quinn and Campbell Scott. Extras listed include a director commentary, a commentary with star Sheridan, a behind-the-scenes featurette and a trailer.

The first film from director Gore Verbinski (the Pirates of the Caribbean series, The Ring, The Weather Man, Rango, A Cure for Wellness) was the PG comedy Mousehunt (1997). It is now receiving a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo release. Nathan Lane and Lee Evans play two men scheming to rid an antique house of a mouse. However, the small animal keeps getting the better of them. If you pick up the title, you’ll get a new 4K picture restoration from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, as well as a film historian commentary, deleted scenes, in addition to a teaser and a trailer. The discs come in a slipcase.

Thriller enthusiasts can now pick up The Peacemaker (1997) in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set. This effort stars George Clooney and Nicole Kidman as a team trying to track down stolen nuclear weapons. The release boasts a new 4K master sourced from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, as well as two film historian commentaries, deleted bits, stunt footage and a trailer. The discs also come in a slipcase.

Road Trip (2000) is a raunchy comedy that is also getting a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray upgrade. The plot involves a college student who accidentally mails a sex tape to his girlfriend across the country. He sets out with his pals to recover the video before it reaches its destination. The cast includes Tom Green, Brekin Meyer, Seann William Scott, DJ Qualls and Fred Ward and this feature is an early effort from director Todd Phillips (Old School, Starsky & Hutch, The Hangover series, Joker, Joker: Folie a Deux). This release contains a new 4K master of the theatrical cut sourced from the original camera negative in Dolby Vision. It doesn’t look like the unrated version is on this set, but it does include a film historian commentary, a behind-the-scenes featurette, a music video, deleted scenes, and two trailers.

The western comedy Rustlers’ Rhapsody (1985) is a homage to classic 1940s westerns, featuring a singing cowboy squaring off against a cattle baron. This film from writer/director Hugh Wilson (creator of WKRP in Cincinnati and writer/director of Police Academy) features Tom Berenger and Marilu Henner, with Andy Griffith as the villain. It was a box office flop and I haven’t seen it since I was a kid, but I do remember it having some funny moments. The movie has been impossible to find for some time and is now finally arriving on Blu-ray. It has been given a 4K restoration from the original camera negative and comes with a film historian commentary and trailer. A slipcase is also included with the first printing.

Made in New Jersey: Films from Fort Lee is a 2-disc Blu-ray collection from Milestone Films containing shorts and documentaries made on location in the New York town between 1909 and 1935. This includes one of the first vampire films ever made, as well. The set includes a booklet with essays and film notes.

The well-regarded biopic Capote (2005) with Philip Seymour Hoffman is being rereleased from MPI Media Group as a Blu-ray, and a Blu-ray and DVD Mediabook.

MVD Visual is presenting a Blu-ray of One Tough Cop (1998) as part of their Marquee Collection. It tells the story of NYPD detective Bo Dietl and his efforts to take down an organized crime family. This picture stars Stephen Baldwin, Chris Penn, Amy Irving and Gina Gershon. Various publicity materials are listed as extras on this disc.

The British line Powerhouse/Indicator Films is putting out several titles this week. You can pick up A Day at the Beach (1970) on Blu-ray. The drama stars Mark Burns and Peter Sellers and involves an alcoholic struggling to take care of his niece. It was co-written by Roman Polanski and was barely released. Considered lost for a time, the film was eventually rediscovered, receiving critical acclaim. The original cut and extended version have been given 4K restorations, and the disc contains a feature-length documentary on the producer, an archival documentary on cinematographer Gilbert Taylor (Repulsion, Star Wars: A New Hope), as well as a booklet with writing on the feature.

The erotic horror film Fascination (1979) from French B-movie auteur Jean Rollin is arriving in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo set. The 4K restoration is from the original negative and presented in Dolby Vision, and the set contains a film historian commentary, featurettes on the production and cast, crew, and film expert interviews, along with promo materials.

The Gentle Gunman (1952) is a British wartime thriller that is also arriving in either as a 4K Ultra HD release or a standalone Blu-ray. The specs list a 4K picture restoration presented in Dolby Vision, an intro from the son of the writer/director, an audio recording of an interview with a cast member, a film critic discussion on the movie, a short film from the director, as well as publicity materials.

The distributor is also putting out The Ship That Died of Shame (1955) on both 4K Ultra HD, as well as Blu-ray. This is another British title about World War II gunboat veterans who end up involved in criminal shipping practices. When something goes wrong during one of their journeys, the entire crew’s lives are put in danger. The cast includes Richard Attenborough, George Baker and Bill Owen. The film was restored in 4K for this edition and is presented in Dolby Vision. The director’s son also introduces the movie, and it also comes with a 2001 interview with Attenborough, an analysis from a film historian, a short film, image gallery, booklet and more.

The indie drama about depression and loneliness, You Are Alone (2005), is arriving on Blu-ray from Saturn’s Core Audio & Video. It comes with two writer/director commentaries, the original rough cut of the picture, an interview with the filmmaker, deleted scenes with optional commentary, behind-the-scenes footage, shorts from the movie maker, trailers and a reversible sleeve.

And there is even more coming this week! Severin is getting on a Doctor Who kick with a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set (as well as a standalone Blu-ray) of Doctor Who and the Daleks (1965), as well as the sequel, Daleks’ Invasion Earth: 2150 A.D. (1966), also in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo or simply on Blu-ray. Both of these pictures star Peter Cushing as the hero as he takes on sinister forces from outer space. Both titles have been restored in 4K from the Techniscope negative by Studio Canal. You’ll get multiple commentary tracks on both titles, archival cast and crew interviews, documentaries and publicity materials.

And, if you want both movies, you can buy them in either a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray or Blu-ray only box set Total Extermination: The Peter Cushing Doctor Who Collection, which has very nice cover art for the discs.

Not to be confused with the 1976 Tobe Hooper horror film, the Italian Eaten Alive (1980) is arriving in a “Standard Edition” 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray. This is a cannibal film about travelers happening upon a religious cult in the jungle (who also enjoy eating people). Besides the picture upgrade, it comes with a film historian commentary, a feature documentary on the star of the movie, cast and crew interviews and more.

Jack the Ripper (1959) is an early film telling the story of London’s Whitechapel murders that is arriving as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo. The movie, following the police investigation of the slayers, was more graphic than most of its era and was regarded with shock upon its release. It has since found a following. You’ll get 4K restorations of two different versions of the film, a commentary with the co-writer/co-director, screenwriter and assistant director, featurettes about the title and Jack the Ripper, as well as promo materials.

Last Cannibal World (1977) is another Italian cannibal film that can be purchased as either a 4K Ultra HD “Standard Edition” or a Blu-ray “Standard Edition”. The 4K restoration was taken from the original camera negative and it comes with a director commentary, interviews with the assistant director, as well as cast members. A trailer and TV spot is also included, along with a booklet containing writing on the movie.

The Shiver of the Vampires (1971) is another erotic horror title from Frenchman Jean Rollin that is coming out as a 4K Ultra HD “Standard Edition” with a 4K restoration of the interpositive presented in Dolby Vision, as well as director commentary, a film critic commentary, and tons of other features like deleted scenes and inserts, critical reappraisals and more.

The distributor is also making a 4K Ultra HD, as well as a Blu-ray “Standard Edition” available for the Italian effort, Slave of the Cannibal God (1978). Once again, it comes with a sharp picture and many of the bonuses of previous editions, in a straight-forward package without frills.

Unknown World (1951) is a really interesting science-fiction title getting the Blu-ray treatment from Severin. The plot involves a renegade scientist assembling a team to drill a home in the center of the Earth before a nuclear war breaks out on the surface. Many believe the movie may have been co-written by Dalton Trumbo, along with credited scribe and Oscar nominee Millard Kaufman (who wrote Bad Day at Black Rock). The film has been restored and scanned uncut in 4K from the protection negative. It comes with a movie expert commentary, an interview with the grandson of the star, a film historian discussion on the title, a video essay on the special effects and a trailer.

Shout Factory is delivering the hit cheerleader comedy Bring It On (2000) in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo pack. It’s about an intense competition between squads that results in plenty of elaborate dance routines. The 4K transfer is from the original camera negative, presented in Dolby Vision and approved by the director. Bonuses include a director commentary track, a making-of, wardrobe and make-up tests, deleted scenes, extended scenes and a theatrical trailer.

You can also pick up the “Director’s Cut” of JFK (1991) on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray. This is a 2-disc set that contains a 2023 4K UHD Oliver Stone-approved scan of the original camera negative and a commentary track with the director.

Sony Pictures is delivering some interesting titles this week. Experiment in Terror (1962) is a clever and stylish thriller from director Blake Edwards (Breakfast at Tiffany’s, The Pink Panther, A Shot in the Dark, The Great Race, The Party) with Lee Remick and Glenn Ford. It tells the story of a woman terrorized by a mysterious figure, who attempts to manipulate her into helping him steal $100,000 from the bank where she works.

The chiller I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) is arriving from the studio as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Steelbook. This effort stars Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe and Freddie Prinze Jr. as teens who hit a man with their car and then dispose of the body. Sometime later, they are all contacted by someone claiming to know what they did and are soon hunted down by an unknown killer with a hook. This 4K edition is presented in Dolby Vision and includes hours of special features including deleted scenes and more.

St. Elmo’s Fire (1985) is arriving on 4K Ultra HD. This “Brat Pack” drama featured its stars moving on from high school tales and playing recent college grads trying to make their way in the world. The cast includes Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Andrew McCarthy, Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy and Mare Winningham. The release contains a 4K image restoration from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, as well as an archival commentary with director Joel Schumacher, a featurette with Schumacher talking about the production, 12 deleted scenes, a making-of featurette, a music video and a trailer.

With the new sequel hitting theaters this weekend Universal Pictures is presenting a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray “Limited Edition” Steelbook of the horror film M3GAN (2022). One expects that the content and bonuses will be the same, just in new packaging.

This is even a busy week for Warner Bros. titles. First, the Warner Archive line is delivering Blu-rays of The Citadel (1938), A Date with Judy (1948), The Enchanted Cottage (1945) and Executive Suite (1954). His Kind of Woman (1951) is also arriving, along with the notable Natalie Wood/ Warren Beatty effort, Splendor in the Grass (1961).

Warner Archive is also dipping their toes into 4K by making the classic musical romantic-comedy High Society (1956) available as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set or a standalone Blu-ray. The original, high-resolution VistaVision negative has been given a new scan and arrives in Dolby Vision. Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra star in this effort about the ex-husband of a woman who is about to be remarried. He tries to convince her that they’re still in love before she ties the knot. It comes with bonus features that include a 2003 retrospective featurette, a newsreel of the film’s premiere, radio spots, a Droopy cartoon and trailers.

Warner Bros. is also reissuing some studio titles. The original, uncut version of 9½ Weeks (1986) is arriving on Blu-ray. Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger appear in this film from Adrian Lyne (Fatal Attraction, Indecent Proposal) about a torrid affair between two strangers.

The classic family film Free Willy (1993) is also being rereleased on Blu-ray.

Speaking of projects created for kids, you can also pick up Looney Tunes Platinum Collection Volume 1 and Looney Tunes Platinum Collection Volume 2 on Blu-ray. This is different from the previous set released a week or two ago, and each contains 2 discs of different Looney Tunes cartoons in the best possible quality. As with other releases, just remember that the shorts were produced between the 1930s and the 1960s and some of the gags may not have aged particularly well.

And you can also pick up a Blu-ray reissue of the deep-sea sci-fi film Sphere (1998) featuring Dustin Hoffman, Sharon Stone and Samuel L. Jackson as researchers investigating a sunken U.F.O. at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.

YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS!

All of the week’s kid-friendly titles can be found below.

Care Bears Unlock the Magic – Three Cheers for Cheer! (NCircle) DVD

Free Willy (1993) (Warner Bros.) Blu-ray

Looney Tunes Platinum Collection: Volume 1 (Warner Bros.) Blu-ray

Looney Tunes Platinum Collection: Volume 2 (Warner Bros.) Blu-ray

Sonic Prime: The Complete Series (2022 – 2024 animated series) (NCircle Entertainment) Blu-ray Steelbook

ON THE TUBE!

And here is a list of the TV-related discs coming your way!

Care Bears Unlock the Magic – Three Cheers for Cheer! (NCircle) DVD

The Corridors of Power (PBS) DVD

Doctor Who: Season 1 (2023 – 2024 season) (BBC) Blu-ray