What’s new on DVD movies, TV





Film and television author Randy Williams reviews the latest movies, television shows, documentaries and music programs now available for purchase online or at retail stores.

The HustlerCollector’s Edition (Fox)- A talented but selfdestructive pool shark (Paul Newman) learns about the price of success the hard way. Garnered four Oscar nominations including best picture. Bonus material includes Newman commentary, pool tips and a making-of feature.

The Peter Sellers Gift Set (MGM)- The masterful comic actor with few equals delivers plenty of merriment, whether it’s a romantic farce or spy spoof. The four-disc offering includes “The Pink Panther,” “Casino Royale,” “The Party” and “What’s New, Pussycat?”

Rio Bravo-Special Edition (Warner Bros.)- As part of a 100th anniversary birthday salute to John Wayne, “Rio Bravo” tells the story of headstrong Sheriff Chance (Wayne) who is asked to defend a small town against an outlaw gang and its hired killers. Time and again he is saved by seemingly trivial friends, portrayed by Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson, Walter Brennan and Angie Dickinson. The two-disc collector’s edition offers a unique assortment of lobby cards as well as a feature on Old Tucson, site of many Hollywood westerns.

Becket (MPI)- Nominated for 12 Academy Awards, this magnificent story of friendship and betrayal features Peter O’Toole as Henry II and Richard Burton as his confidant. Based on the popular play, the disc also offers commentary by O’Toole, interviews with the editor and composer, as well as archival comments from Burton.

The Sergio Leone Anthology (MGM)- An eight-disc box set from the visionary Italian director whose “spaghetti westerns” reinvented the genre. Clint Eastwood is the man with no name in “A Fistful of Dollars,” “For a Few Dollars More” and “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.” James Coburn stars in “Duck You Sucker.” A colorful story booklet and cast recollections are included.

Seinfeld-Season 8 (Sony)- The merriment from this zany New York quartet rolls on with a fourdisc, 22-show offering. Popular episodes such as “The Muffin Tops” and “Yada Yada” are supported by extensive bonus material, including allnew cast interviews, fact tracks and bloopers.

Deadwood-The Complete Third Season (HBO)- With the town’s first election, the lawless era of this 1870s South Dakota outpost is coming to an end, even though the brutal power struggles continue. This six-disc, 12-hour box set features bonus material that explores dynamic character relationships, a documentary analyzing the era and extensive audio commentaries.

Roots-30th Anniversary Special Edition (Warner Bros.) – Based on Alex Haley’s bestselling novel following the lives of several generations of a slave family, the top mini-series of all time arrives on a four-disc set. Bonus materials include cast recollections, a documentary with all-new material, as well as the Roots’ family tree information.

Architectural Wonders/ Technology (A&E)- Truly amazing celebrations of human possibilities are explored, including the Great Wall of China, the Manhattan Project, the Pyramids of Giza, and Walt Disney World. Some of mankind’s greatest pioneering achievements as well as engineering disasters are studied in depth. Offered separately in eight-disc box sets.

Fat-What No One Is Telling You (PBS)- A deep and compassionate look at a serious health issue, this documentary addresses the many myths surrounding the physiological aspect of shedding weight. It also studies the psychological and cultural factors involved in the struggle for weight loss. Extra features include lifestyle tips and medical advice.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *