Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

The Academy Awards were just a couple of days ago and to capitalize on the height of their popularity, two films with multiple nominations make themselves available for purchase this week. However, one was more successful than the other in bringing home Oscar. Coincidentally, there are some horrific films to counteract the balance of the week. We couldn’t possibly get too many good films at once, could we?

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

Up in the Air

Jason Reitman, son of Ivan, is really making a case for himself as one of the good young directors in Hollywood after Thank You for Smoking, Juno and most recently Up In The Air. Here we get 3 award-worthy acting performances, none winners after a couple of days ago, but remarkable nonetheless and a nominated directing job that many felt was a better contender for Bigelow’s nomination than anyone else. Highly recommended film that fits perfectly with the times, but the supplements on the disc leave something to be desired.

Supplements: Audio Commentary, Deleted Scenes, Featurette, Theatrical Trailers, BR Exclusive Deleted Scenes, Music Video, Storyboards, American Airlines Prank

Old Dogs

We go from a spectacular film to a craptacular film. This is by far one of the most panned and berated films of the year, worthy of competing for worst of the year. Where has the days of quality Disney family film faire gone? Did the death of John Candy end this?  Not good. We even get a music video from Bryan Adams, something that I believe the Canadian government has apologized for on several occasions, but hasn’t stopped producing.

Supplements: Audio commentary by director Walt Becker, producer Andrew Panay, and writers David Diamond and David Weissman, Deleted scenes, Bloopers, “Every Little Step”: new music video performed by John Travolta and Ella Bleu Travolta, You’ve Been A Friend To Me”: music video performed by Bryan Adams, Young Dogs Learn Old Tricks

Planet 51

Did I say craptacular?  Well this is getting there. With a cast that includes the voices of Dwayne Johnson, Justin Long, Gary Oldman, Jessica Biel and Seann William Scott you’d expect something a little better, correct? Am I right? Well this was hardly worthy of your time, but maybe the kids will enjoy it. If it’s this or Old Dogs, I go with this.

Supplements: Planetarium – The Voice Stars of Planet 51, Extended scenes, The World of Planet 51 – explore the sights and sounds of Planet 51, Featurette: Life On Planet 51, Music video montage, Animation progression reels, Target 51 Game

Capitalism: A Love Story

Michael Moore’s polarization is well-documented, but I don’t know how it’s possible to not be captivated with his subject matter and ability to weave entertainment around what many could consider to be a dry topic. Some see it as anti-American. I see it as essential viewing. You may not store your money in a bank ever again. Here’s our full review.

Supplements: Deleted & Extended Scenes, Theatrical Trailers, Extended Interview, Digital Copy

Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Saphire

For those who missed, it now’s your chance to see what Mo’Nique was talking about the other night in the comfort of your own home. Definitely not the easiest film to sit through or say its title 3 times fast, but this film will make you appreciate what it is you have in life and maybe even a little hope that you can overcome what’s holding you down.

Supplements: Audio commentary, Featurettes, Deleted Scene, Audition footage, Bookmarks

Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day

I’ve never seen the original Boondock Saints so I can’t even tell if it was a film worthy of a sequel, yet I’m guessing by the underground popularity of the first film this is a film that warrants a direct-to-disc follow-up. Expect a bunch of south Boston slang, guns blazing and death, but what else is new amongst us Irish? Where’s House of Pain when you need a soundtrack?

Supplements: Filmmaker and Cast Commentaries, Deleted scenes, Unprecedented Access, Billy Connolly & Troy Duffy unedited, Inside the Vault: The Weapons, The Cast Confesses: Scenes from the Set, The Boondock Saints Hit Comic-Con, BD-Live, MovieIQ

Ninja

Umm, the title explains it all. So this is a film about a white dude who wants to be a ninja (don’t we all) who now has to go to New York to protect some chest that houses old weapons. In this day and age, aren’t guns the answer to everything? Who cares about being a ninja when you have a Glock 18, but I guess there would be no Ninja movie.  Wait, that isn’t a bad idea.

Supplements: Trailers

The Stoning of Soraya M.

This is hardly a fun film. This tells the true story of Soraya, an Iranian woman falsely accused of adultery whose punishment was to be buried up to her waist and be stoned to death. This happened in 1986. 1986! Not 346 A.D., but a little over 20 years ago. Odd that both Jim Caviezel and a producer of The Passion of the Christ chose an eerily familiar film with a torturous ending.

Supplements: Yet to be announced.

The Who: The Kids are Alright

If you didn’t get enough of the two remaining members of The Who at the Super Bowl, or as I like to call them The W, then here’s your chance to see all you ever need about The Who. From early days to their last with drummer Keith Moon, this is the film that captures it all. Now go smash some guitars.

Supplements: Yet To Be Announced.

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

Matt Damon’s best un-nominated performance of the year comes to Blu this week as do a lot of under-the-radar films from late last year. By “under-the-radar,” I mean poorly-performing, of course. There’s a pre-remake zombie flick and couple other oddities, but this week lacks the big-hitters. See if anything flights your fancy.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

The Informant!

Matt Damon and Steven Soderbergh reunite, again, for this quasi-biographical political dark comedy about an informant working with the government to blow the whistle on the wrongdoings of the company he works for. This film had mixed reviews upon release, but I am a fan of the two main collaborators behind this and am pleased to see that at least it’s something different than the typical fare. Some have even said that Damon deserved a nomination for this role, but that will be left to be decided in movie blogs and chatrooms around the interweb. Our review.

Supplements: Audio commentary with director Steven Soderbergh and screenwriter Scott Burns, Deleted scenes

The Box

I was kind of surprised to see Cyclops himself, James Marsden, being lined up with Cameron Diaz in this film, finding it interesting that he’s now, in the eyes of producers, capable of sharing screen time with someone as popular as she. Granted, this is a highly forgettable fall film, but top billing is top billing.  Either way if you’re in for a unique, somewhat baffling and convoluted film, but overall decent thriller, grab this disc today.

Supplements: Commentary with Richard Kelly, Richard Matheson: In His Words, The Box: Grounded in Reality, Visual Effects, Music Video Prequels

Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant

The terror on cinema that is Twilight strikes again. No, this is not a spin-off or in any way connected to that series, feel about it what you will, this is just another story of how great it would be to become a mid-teen vampire.  Just think of the benefits. No school, no acne, no dying, but then again you’ll never be old enough to drink, smoke or gamble legally, but ehh, that’s not stopping kids today who aren’t vampires.  It’s surprising the level of supporting cast that’s here, from Hayek to Watanabe to John C. “Freaking” Riley (yes, “freaking” must be used at all times with his name), for basically a kids film. I guess they figured with the success of Harry Potter and Twilight they’d be in for a nice franchise payday.

Supplements: Deleted Scenes, Guide to Becoming a Vampire, Tour du Freak, U-Control Picture-in-Picture, Pocket Blu, My Scenes, BD-Live

The Crazies (1973)

The original George A. Romero film that’s now getting a big Hollywood remake. It’s one of the few remakes I’d actually be interested in seeing. This first film is of cult status and is getting the hi-def treatment by the great people at Blue Underground. The synopsis of this reminds me a bit of the 28 Days/Weeks Later films, where people are of a zombie-like nature, but aren’t truly zombies. One of my two must-see films of the week.

Supplements: Audio Commentary, Interview, Trailers

The Damned United

Here’s the other must-see film of the week for me. For some reason I can’t get enough of British melodrama-comedies. Growing up a fan of The Full Monty must be the culprit and this film looks to quench my thirst. Set in Leeds, England, this is the story of one of England’s greatest football (soccer) managers, Brian Clough, and his 44-day reign over their team, Leeds United. “Why was it only 44 days for someone as great as he,” must be answered in the film. Could you imagine Joe Torre or Bill Walsh only coaching a team for 44 days? Neither can I?

Supplements: Commentary with director Tom Hooper, Michael Sheen and producer Andy Harries, Deleted scenes with optional director’s commentary, Cloughisms with optional director’s commentary, Perfect Pitch: The Making of The Damned United, Creating Clough: Michael Sheen takes on ‘Old Big ‘Ead’, Remembering Brian, The Changing Game: Football in the Seventies, BD-Live

Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths

The only reason I really put this on here is for the special feature “Aquaman Live-action Pilot Episode.” This, I must see. Because of that, this may be the one disc that I actually purchase this week. Thankfully, it’s something that I also enjoy in the form of the DC comic universe. I’m not a huge comic fan, but I’m aware of the main players and I gather this is a film that puts all of our Justice League heroes against those from the “Bizarro” universe. As always, up is down, black is white and hello is goodbye (or “badbye”) in the Bizarro universe.

Supplements: DC Showcase: The Spectre, Bruce Timm’s Top Picks, Wonder Woman Live-action Pilot Episode, Aquaman Live-action Pilot Episode, Trailers, A First Look at ‘Batman Under the Red Hood’, Green Lantern First Look, Superman/Batman Public Enemies First Look, Wonder Woman: The Amazon Princess “, The New World” – Extended Cut

Motherhood

A very cut-and-paste comedy staring Uma Thurman, who you wouldn’t figure for these types of films. This is more Eddie Murphy/Robin Williams, of late, comedic fare.  Everything that can go wrong does, but at the end of the day it all seems to work itself out right.

Supplements: Audio commentary with Katherine Dieckmann and producer Rachel Cohen, Interviews with Uma Thurman, Anthony Edwards, Minnie Driver and director Katherine Dieckmann

Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead

It’s Troma, so don’t ever expect anything. If you’ve never seen a Troma produced or created film you owe it to yourself to see one, just so you can bring some ammo to the conversation. Anyway, I’m very sure that the title explains it all and if that doesn’t do it for you, check out the feature “Ron Jeremy’s ‘alternate happy ending.’” One can only imagine what that’s about.

Supplements: Att-hen-sion getting commentary by director Lloyd Kaufman and writer/editor Gabe Friedman, Commentary by stars Jason Yachanin and Kate Graham, Introduction by Troma co-founder Michael Herz, Interview with Troma star Joe Fleishaker, Sexy rooftop re-shoot, Explosion effect featurette, Ron Jeremy’s “alternate happy ending”, Troma’s first egg-a-morphic widescreen presentation, Music videos, deleted scenes, trailers, thighs the limit

Sorority Row

It’s got Carrie Fisher in it. Yay.

Supplements: Yet to be announced

Wrong Side of Town

For all you WWE or TNA or ECW fans, here’s your wrestler-starring film of the month.  Rob Van Dam and Bautista in a Walking Tall meets 2 Fast 2 Furious meets Rambo action film. After reading the synopsis for this film there are only two words that fit… “Vendetta Vendetta.”

Supplements: Set Life with Rob Van Dam, Interviews with the Stars, Stunts with Rob Van Dam, Kali training video with David Bautista, Marrese Crump and Oscar Lugo, Trailer

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

Sadly, we’re getting a Blu-ray double-dip of a classic film for no other reason but to celebrate its 20th Anniversary with no real improvements over its previous version. Luckily this week brings two new Criterion releases, which can never be sneered at, along with a couple older classics and underrated from from the past six months.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

Black Dynamite

Surprisingly, this is the film that I’m looking forward to getting most this week. This seems like something that Tarantino would be behind in some form, especially with films like Jackie Brown and Death Proof being of the late 70s exploitation genre. You’d almost expect to see this as one of the faux-trailers that were on the Grindhouse experience.

Supplements: Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Scott Sanders and Actors/Co-Writers Michael Jai White and Byron Minns, Lighting the Fuse, The ’70’s: Back in Action, The Comic-Con Experience, Deleted Scenes, MovieIQ, BD-Live

Cabin Fever

Speaking of the Grindhouse trailers, we get the first film from Thanksgiving’s director, Eli Roth. I never really found myself interested in seeing this film. Maybe it’s because Rider Strong is in it and I can’t get past his role as Shawn from “Boy Meets World,” but whatever the reason, I’ve passed on this film. If you happen to enjoy it you’ll get your creep on in full 1080p now.

Supplements: Featurettes, Animated Shorts, Theatrical Trailer, Audio Commentary, Two Animated Shorts, Still Gallery, Trailer, Interactive Bookmark Function

Cabin Fever 2: Spring Fever (DVD Only)

A direct-to-disc sequel to a mildly successful film with the same star reprising his role. Is this what Hollywood spends its time doing? The one saving grace is that you at least get it on Blu-ray. Expect this to be in bargain bins shortly with its soon-to-be-made sequels; Cabin Fever 3: Island Fever, Cabin Fever 4: Dance Fever, and Cabin Fever 5: Dan LeFevour.

Supplements: Audio commentary with cast and crew, The Making of Cabin Fever 2, Gag Reel

Goodfellas: 20^th Anniversary Edition

We should all know and have seen this film. Scorcese’s send-up to The Godfather, basically. A modern take on the mob, based on the real life of Henry Hill. One of the best films of the 9’s. We know this already. What you don’t know is that this is a double-dip from Warner of this film with no improvements made to the video or audio from the previous version. You get a 2nd disc, DVD even, with some added features, but that’s about it. Shame on Warner and any studio who does this crap, the video and audio weren’t reference to begin with. Worth a buy if you don’t own it already, but if you do, think long and hard.

Supplements: Audio Commentaries, Featurettes, Storyboard Comparisons, Theatrical Trailer, Bonus DVD, 32-page booklet

The Ladykillers

The original with Obi-Wan himself, Alec Guinness.  I enjoyed the remake with Tom Hanks so I’m somewhat intrigued by this. Anything with Guinness in it surely is worth watching once.

Supplements: Introduction by filmmaker Terry Gilliam, “Forever Ealing” – a documentary on the famed British studio, Audio commentary with film historian Philip Kemp, Interviews with British filmmakers Allan Scott and Terence Davies and writer Ronald Harwood on the film, 20-Page Booklet, BD-Live (including a bonus interview with British filmmaker James Mangold)

Law Abiding Citizen

They are promoting this as the “Director’s Cut,” as opposed to just the unrated version, so it will be interesting to see how far this film differs from the original that we reviewed here.

Supplements: Audio Commentary, Featurettes, Trailers

Ran

A great film from legendary Akira Kurosawa makes its way to Blu-ray. Sadly, this isn’t the awesome Criterion version that was released on DVD a few years back.  Somehow Lionsgate snatched up the rights to some of A.K.’s work, but I could think of worse companies than them. Give it a look, you won’t be disappointed.

Supplements: “A.K.” – the acclaimed feature-length documentary on the making of the film, “Akira Kurosawa: The Epic and the Intimate” – documentary on the director, A Portrait of Akira Kurosawa by Japanese cinema expert and interpreter Catherine Cadou, “The Samurai” – documentary on Samurai art, “Art of the Samurai” – an interview with a Japanese art of war expert, 20-Page Booklet, BD-Live

Coco Before Chanel

Here’s your biopic for the week. This one about the life of Coco Chanel before she became “Coco Chanel.” Staring the ever-cute Audrey Tautou as Coco, you’ll learn all you need to know about the woman behind the number 5.

Supplements: Audio Commentary, Three Featurettes, Theatrical Trailer, BD-Live

Dirty Harry Collection

This has been released before and with a better packaging.  This looks to be the 5 films and some features but without all the collectible merchandise from the previous set.  If you got that already, avoid this. If you don’t and want to spend less, here’s your chance.

Supplements: Audio commentaries, Featurettes, Interviews, Trailers

Hunger

The first of two Criterion releases for the week and would any week be complete without one? A gritty and “hard to watch” film from English director Steve McQueen, not to be confused with the acting legend, especially if you were to see him in person (he’s black).  A film about a hunger strike in 1981 by member of the IRA locked up in a British prison, protesting their cruel and unusual treatment. Supposedly very well shot and creative, if you can stomach (all puns intended) the subject and the pain, give this film a spin.

Supplements: Cast and crew interviews, Featurette, Documentary, Original theatrical trailer, Production Notes, Timeline

Lola Montès

The other Criterion release this week. This film is of a completely different nature but one some would definitely recommend seeing. Directed by Max Ophuls (one of Kubrick’s favorite directors), this tells the story of the titular character who was a famous showgirl courtesan who had an affair with King Ludwig I of Bulgaria in the mid 1800s and performer who caused many a newsworthy scene. This is Ophuls’ first use of color, his last film as a director and is one which is supposedly visually stunning. As with all Criterion films, it’s worth viewing at least once.

Supplements: Audio commentary featuring Max Ophüls scholar Susan White, Max by Marcel, a new documentary by Marcel Ophüls about his father and the making of ‘Lola Montès’, “Max Ophüls ou le plaisir de tourner,” a 1965 episode of the French television program Cinéastes de notre temps, featuring interviews with many of Ophüls’s collaborators, Silent footage of actress Martine Carol demonstrating the various glamorous hairstyles in ‘Lola Montès’, Theatrical rerelease trailer from Rialto Pictures, A booklet featuring an essay by film critic Gary Giddins

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

Some big titles this week. Only three newly-released films, leaving the true quality to come in the form of catalog releases, but sometimes that’s all we need to be happy. We have one of the best trilogies in existence, which may not come to mind when you thing of “great trilogies,” but trust me, it deserves to be there. There are also two classic films from a recent filmmaking genius. Don’t sleep on these BDs.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

The Invention Of Lying

An interesting film starring the always funny, always British, Ricky Gervais and the always attractive Jennifer Garner. I must wonder how far I would go in a world where no one had lied and I knew the power that I held. Here’s our review for more.

Supplements: More Laughter: Corpsing and Outtakes, Prequel: The Dawn of Lying, Meet Karl Pilkington, A Truly “Honest” Making of Featurette with Ricky Gervais, Ricky and Matt’s Video Podcasts, Deleted Scenes

The Bourne Identity

The original film in the great trilogy. When this came out I had a connection at a local theater and got to see a midnight screening of either this or We Were Soldiers. We chose Soldiers mainly with the reason that Bourne had started early. Sadly, I wish I had seen this instead.  This, like the two sequels, is a re-release on Blu-ray, as individual titles. This is also the first coming of the long-awaited (but not anticipated) Universal “flipper” discs, AKA BD-59, one side being the Blu-ray, the other side being DVD.  Check Clive Owen in one of his first US film debuts.

Supplements: Audio commentary with Doug Liman, Deleted and extended scenes, Alternate opening and ending, Featurettes, Moby music video, U-Control Picture-in-Picture, My Scenes, BD-Live

The Bourne Supremacy

The second film in this series, but the first to be helmed by one of my new favorite directors, Paul Greengrass. This brought “shaky-cam” to the forefront. It always seems hard for the second film in a series like this to stand out when the first and third seem to be the more impactful of the two. Karl Urban shows that he is worthy of being more than just a supporting actor.

Supplements: Audio commentary with Paul Greengrass, Deleted scenes, Featurettes, U-Control Picture-in-Picture, My Scenes, BD-Live

The Bourne Ultimatum

The third film in this series, so far, and maybe the best of the three, but that’s debatable.  If anyone wants to know how to make a great action film, look no further than this and its brethren. Greengrass took this series and made it one of the best trilogies in film history, in my mind.  Let’s hope that if a fourth does come about everyone involved is back.

Supplements: Audio commentary with Director Paul Greengrass, Deleted scenes, Featurettes, U-Control Picture-in-Picture, My Scenes, BD-Live

Gamer

Let’s just call this “Running Man 2010.”  I’m a big fan of Gerard Butler. I feel that he is capable of being a top-notch actor in many genres, but reading some scripts before you sign on would be a good thing. Stick to more 300 and RockNRolla films and less of these pictures. The second film featuring both Chris “Ludacris” Bridges and Gerard Butler for those keeping score. Here’s our review for more.

Supplements: Audio commentary with the filmmakers and cast, Behind the scenes documentary, Cinematography featurette, Interactive I-Con viewing mode with expanded visual commentary, Scene-specific commentaries, Never-before-seen trailer, BD-Touch, Metamenu Remote, D-Box

Boogie Nights

Paul Thomas Anderson’s sophomore effort re-creates the 1970s porn revolution in Los Angeles and a sprawling epic worthy of being deemed one of the best films of all time. There are memorable scenes galore, fantastic performances and PTA’s ever-roving camera, all working to create cinematic art of the highest order, even if it’s subject matter is anything but.

Supplements: Commentary by Director Paul Thomas Anderson, Commentary by P.T. Anderson and Cast Members Mark Wahlberg, John C. Reilly, Don Cheadle, Julianne Moore, William H. Macy, and Heather Graham, The John C. Reilly Files, Deleted Scenes, Music Video, Trailer

Magnolia

This is PTA’s ode to chance and coincidence, surmising perhaps that those things don’t exist. Another portrayal of the San Fernando Valley told through the eyes of several interconnected characters. It’s third-act twist may throw some for a loop, but this film continues to latch onto your psyche with each subsequent viewing.

Supplements: Magnolia Video Diary — Covers the blossoming of a modern-day masterwork, Frank T.J. Mackey Seminar, Seduce and Destroy Infomercial, One and Save Me — Aimee Mann music videos, Theatrical trailers and TV spots

Smokin’ Aces

This must be “films with rappers in it” release week, with Common and the lovely Alicia Keys – even though technically she isn’t a rapper, she associates with them, dammit. This film was interesting and had some quality action set pieces, but in the end it didn’t quite live up to expectations. Now that it’s on Blu, maybe its time for a second go-round. If nothing more, you can see the new “James Kirk” in an earlier Chris Pine role.

Supplements: One Smoking Camera, Lock, Stock and Two F**cking Barrels, U Control – Picture in Picture, U Control – Assassin Tracker, BD Live – Basic Download Center, BD Live – Video Rotation, BD Live – On-Screen Ticker

Smokin’ Aces 2: Assassins’ Ball

A sequel to a film not really worthy of a sequel. Direct-to-disc and pretty soon direct-to-discount bins. Who knows, we may be surprised by this film, but I’ll take the under on it.

Supplements: Audio Commentary, Featurettes, Deleted Scenes, Gag Reel, BD-Live, News Ticker, pocket BLU, My Scenes, D-Box Enhancements

Che

Many young people today go around rocking the Che Guevara t-shirts and such, but I wonder if they truly know who this man was and would they continue doing so if they knew? From my understanding, this film truly does look at him and tries its best to remove the glossy freedom-fighter image that’s improved his reputation and instead shows him for what he really was. Now enough political talk, this is a film directed by the homie Steven Soderbergh and starring Benicio Del Toro and it’s being brought to you on Blu-ray by Criterion. Those are some pretty strong reasons to look into it.

Supplements: Commentary by Historian Jon Lee Anderson (both parts), Deleted Scenes, The Making of ‘Che’, Trailer, End of a Revolution, Interviews from Cuba, Che and the Digital Camera Revolution

Whiteout

Saved the best for last? Hardly. This film is not really worth the time and effort other than seeing Kate Beckinsale’s beauty. However, it’s Antarctica and she’s wearing a giant blazer, so hardly the skin-tight leather we’ve come to hope for. My suggestion is go buy 1982’s The Thing on Blu-ray if you want to see a great Antarctic suspense film. You won’t be disappointed.

Supplements: Alternate Scenes, The Coldest Thriller Ever Story, Freeze Frame: From Page to Screen, Digital Copy

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

What’s this? Worthy Blu-ray releases. No foolin’. We actually have a good stash of films this week. Two are considered among the best films of 2009. One is proclaimed to be one of the true masterpieces of cinema. There are a duo of early 90s action films starring the beefcake team of Schwarzy and Stallone. All hail the New Year as BDs are back!

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

Halloween II

To me, there is one, and only one, Halloween movie: the 1978 original directed by John Carpenter, starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Donald Pleasance. Anything else is but a sham compared to the original. This fact won’t stop Hollywood from producing sequels and spin-offs, noting that there are 6 sequels, 1 variation (Halloween 3: Season of the Witch) and then the two new Rob Zombie films.  This is the second one and even though I am a fan of Zombie’s music, I can’t seem to get around to viewing these films. Thankfully Zombie said this will be his last Halloween film, but we’ve heard such things before. Um…Scary Movie anyone? Here’s our review if you need more persuasion.

Supplements: Commentary with writer/director Rob Zombie, Deleted and alternate scenes, Blooper reel, Audition footage, Michael – Interior, Uncle Seymour Coffins’ stand-up routines, Captain Clegg and the Night Creatures Music Videos, movieIQ, BD-Live

The Hurt Locker

I missed this film during its run in theaters and the studio didn’t make that any easier by having a very limited release, but I am primed and ready to watch it on Blu.  On many critics Best of the Year lists and a possible Best Picture nomination, now that the academy has expanded that category to 10 films. Definitely a must buy and a must own.  The pricing is an issue, though. I hoped with the New Year we would be beyond $25+ release week prices. No such luck. Read our review to find out just how astounding the film is.

Supplements: Audio Commentary with Kathryn Bigelow and Mark Boal, The Hurt Locker: Behind the Scenes I, Image Gallery with Q & A

Moon

2009 had to be the year of quality sci-fi films, with Star Trek, District 9 and Avatar, this was a year to be a sci-fi geek and Moon must be included in that list of great films. This is in many ways a throwback to the science fiction films of the late 60s and early 70s, relying more on a unique story, great model work and quality acting for the lack of a big budget. Sam Rockwell is an actor that just can’t seem to break through to true mainstream stardom. He always gets close, but never seems to stick. I for one have been a fan of his for years, since 1989 unbeknownst to me with his bit part in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. This is the other must own disc released today, but maybe that’s the sci-fi nerd in me talking. Again, pricing is a sticking point, which will be a shame if people miss out on this. Read our review for more info.

Supplements: Audio Commentaries, Featurettes, Short Film, Trailers

In the Loop

I know very little about this film but it seems to be getting a good deal of love.  Interesting to see Anna Chlumsky of My Girl fame making a comeback of sorts with this film.

Supplements: Yet to be announced.

Fame

First there was a movie, then there was a Broadway musical and now there’s a movie again. Seems ol’ Hollywood is up to its same old tricks. What more can we expect? You do get over 15 minutes of extended dance scenes that were just so great they withheld them from the theatrical release. Everyone jump for joy!

Supplements: 15 Deleted Scenes, Fame National Talent Search Content Winner, Music Video

I Can Do Bad All By Myself

It’s a Tyler Perry movie. Enough said.  Would much rather watch a Luke Perry movie.

Supplements: 3 Featurettes

The Brothers Bloom

Two brothers, last name Bloom, are great conmen and they’re off to pull of the greatest con of their careers before they retire.  With the always cute Rachel Weisz, and two quality actors in Adrian Brody and Mark Ruffalo this should be a worth a peak or two. Here’s our review to elaborate.

Supplements: Yet to be announced

Post Grad

It’s a romantic comedy with Alexis Bledel. You decide if its really worth your time.  Somehow I think I may already know the answer. The Hurt Locker and Moon get limited extras, but this film has a stockpile. Something’s wrong with this picture. Our review will tell you what to expect.

Supplements: Deleted and Alternate Scenes, What Not To Wear, Post Grad Confidential, “One Day” Music Video By Zach Gilford, Real Life Advice with Alexis Bledel and Zach Gilford, Know Your Strengths: Career Advice, How Not To Get A Job, A Guide To Moving Back Home, Dress For Success, Find Your Match! The Best Job For You

8 ½

It’s a Criterion Blu-ray. Right there, half of you should already be buying it. It’s Federico Fellini’s 8 ½, what more do you want me to elaborate on? If you call yourself a film fan, you must see this film, and what better way than to do so on Blu-ray? Get it now.

Supplements: Introduction by Terry Gilliam, Audio Commentary, “Fellini: A Director’s Notebook” Vintage TV Special, “Nino Rota: Between Cinema and Concert” Documentary, Interviews, Still Galleries, Theatrical Trailers, Booklet Essays, “The Last Sequence” Documentary

Cliffhanger

I love Cliffhanger. It’s just pure beyond belief action fun. If you haven’t seen this, please do, but come in with a desire to have fun, because you will. Why in the world hasn’t John Lithgow gotten more roles as a villain? He’s great at it, between this film, Footloose and Santa Claus: The Movie, just to name a few, he plays that great slimy villain who’s just evil inside. Now if only we can get Demolition Man on Blu, I’d be able to die happy.

Supplements: Commentary with director Renny Harlin and Sylvester Stallone, Technical crew commentary, Stallone on the Edge: The Making of Cliffhanger, Special effects featurettes, Storyboard Comparisons, Deleted scenes, MovieIQ

Last Action Hero

People hate on this film as if it had sex with their mothers, but I love it. I want to see the Jack Slater films myself. They seem to be from the same realm as the McBain series featured in “The Simpsons.”  Sadly, this has no real special features to speak of, which is a true shame. One of my must-buys of the week, but will wait for a nice sale.

Supplements: BD Live, movieIQ

The Simpsons: The Complete 20^th Season

I know we only talk about new Blu-ray movie releases, but I can’t let something like the first Simpsons season coming to Blu-ray go without mention. Sadly, this is of the 20^th season, which is but a shadow of seasons 1-12, but is an improvement over seasons 13-19.

Supplements: The Twentieth Anniversary Special Sneak Peek by Morgan Spurlock

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

January is typically the dumping ground for films in theaters. It appears the first Blu-ray week of the new year is taking the same approach. A small amount of titles, none being too enticing. There is a $100 million+ film in the bunch, however. Take a look and see if any suit you. Surprises lurk around ever corner.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

10 Things I Hate About You: Special Edition

The first film I saw Heath Ledger in. I knew more about Joseph Gordon-Levitt from his “3^rd Rock” and Angels in the Outfield days. I was surprised by how much I actually enjoyed the film. Of course it follows the formula of romantic comedies, even if it is based off of Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew,” but if it works why go away from it?  Three of the main stars have moved onto mainstream popularity and success, with J G-L coming on lately, and check a then 27-year-old Gabrielle Union playing a sophomore. That age difference rivals Stacey Dash in Clueless.

Supplements: 10 Things I Love About 10 Things I Hate About You 10 Years Later, I Want You To Want Me: The 10 Things I Hate About You Screen Tests,  Audio Commentary with co-writers Karen Lutz and Kirsten Smith, and stars Andrew Keegan, David Krumholtz, Larisa Oleynik and Susan May Pratt

Cheaper By The Dozen 2

The sequel to a film I’ve never seen. I doubt anything I say will sell you on it. If you happen to be a fan, then grab it on Blu.

Supplements: Feature Commentary by Director Adam Shankman, FOX Movie Channel Presents Casting Session, Camp Chaos, A Comedic Trio

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs

As a kid, this story was always one of my favorites, living in a place where all kinds of great food just fell from the sky, as if it was a “Treehouse of Horror episode” (“oh, it’s raining again”). I found it hard to see how they could turn that short story into a feature length film, but if they could bring “The Polar Express” to the big screen, anything was possible. As with a good deal of the 3D films, the Blu-ray does not yet have that presentation, sticking with traditional 2D, but for a kids film it shouldn’t make much difference. Give it a spin.

Supplements: Directors’ commentary with Bill Hader, “Raining Sunshine” music video by iCarly’s Miranda Cosgrove, Interactive “Raining Sunshine” sing-a-long, Behind the scenes of Miranda Cosgrove’s “Raining Sunshine” music video, Make It Rain Food, A Recipe for Success: The Making of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, Key Ingredients: The Voices of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, Flint’s Food Fight Game – enhanced for Blu-ray, Extended scenes, Early development scenes, Progression reels with introductions by visual effects supervisor Rob Bredow, Interactive “Splat” button (throw food at the screen while you watch the movie!)

Dogtown And  Z-Boys

The first of two Stacy Peralta documentaries coming on Blu-ray this week. My preference was for the 80s era skating with guys like Christian Hosoi, Tony Hawk and Rob Roskopp, but will be giving this a viewing one of these days.

Supplements: Multi-Angle Sequences, Lords of Dogtown: Webisodes, Tony Alva Art Show, The State of Pool Skating with Tony Alva and Bucky Lasek, Commentary with Director Stacy Peralta and Editor Paul Crowder, Alternate Ending, Deleted Scene, Extended Raw Skate Footage

Riding Giants

An awesome documentary that spans over 40 years of big wave surfing, and surfing in general, from the origins in Hawaii, to So-Cal surfers taking on the big waves of Pipe Line and Waimea Bay, to the lone surfer at Mavericks and the thought of being towed into Jaws with Laird Hamilton is a lasting one. And if you didn’t know already, “Surfing’s the source man… swear to God.”

Supplements: Director and Editor’s Commentary, Writer and Surfers’ commentary, The Making of Riding Giants, Fuel TV’s Blue Carpet Special, Deleted Scenes

The Final Destination (3D)

My only interest in this film was to finally see a live action film in the new digital 3D technology. The preview of the NASCAR tire flying at you piqued my interest. Well, I never ended up seeing it and any interest I had has been lost. This does come with the old school anaglyph 3D “technology,” which with everything I’ve ever seen for home release so far has been poor.

Supplements: Two alternate endings, Previsualization and Storyboards, Body Count: The Deaths on The Final Destination – Deconstructing Key Death Scenes, Additional Scenes

The Green Berets

A classic release for you this week and with John Wayne no less. This was made back when we thought we could win the “war.” Well, if John Wayne couldn’t pull us through, even in movie form, nothing would. At least you can watch this and think the U.S. could have won.

Supplements: The Making of The Green Berets

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

Wow. Quite a dearth of titles this week. So much so that you see a Direct-to-Blu title in the headline. Of course there’s an obvious choice hovering above all BD titles this week like an alien mothership. Everything else is either lesser known, lesser quality or as previously mentioned, didn’t get a theatrical release. That doesn’t mean you should stay away, though. There’s always something to salvage when 1080p is concerned.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

District 9

One of the best movies of the year and one of the surprise hits, as well. Directed by Neill Blomkamp, who should be doing the Halo movie if you’ve seen his Landfall and Halo: Combat short films, does an outstanding job of redefining the whole sci-fi/action universe. The film shows the Hollywood machine you don’t need to spend $300 million – I’m looking at you Transformers 2 – to get a great looking feature and to turn a huge profit. A wise man once said “an effect without a story is just an effect” (George Lucas, before he made the Star Wars prequels) and this film follows the proclamation perfectly. Check our review if you don’t believe it.

Supplements: Metamorphosis: The Transformation of Wikus, Innovation: Acting and Improvisation, Conception and Design: Creating the World of District 9, Alien Generation: Visual Effects, Director’s Commentary, Joburg From Above: Satellite and Schematics of the World of District 9 – Interactive Map, Koobus Big Gun, The Alien Agenda: A Filmmaker’s Log Three-Part Documentary, The Alien Agenda: A Filmmaker’s Log – Chapter 3: Refining District 9, movieIQ, cinechat, BD-Live

(500) Days of Summer

One of the better films of the year and a film that continues to prove that Joseph Gordon-Levitt is an actor to follow, if they do another Batman film with the Joker, I nominate JG-L as the new Joker, as he even kind of looks like Ledger. Back to this film, Zooey Deschanel is in it, so what else can I say other than this is a unique look at the romantic film genre. Who hasn’t had a girlfriend/boyfriend that you just can’t seem to get out of your mind? Our review has even more to say.

Supplements: Feature commentary with Director Marc Webb, Writer Michael Weber, Co-Writer Scott Neustadter and Actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lost Days of Summer: Deleted and Extended Scenes With Optional Commentary by Director Marc Webb, Writer Michael Weber, Co-Writer Scott Neustadter and Actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Summer At Sundance, Not A Love Story – Making (500) Days of Summer, Two Audition Tapes With Optional Commentary By Director Marc Webb, Summer Storyboards, Bank Dance Directed By Marc Webb, Mean’s Cinemash: “Sid and Nancy/(500) Days of Summer”, Music Video: “Sweet Disposition” By Temper Trap, Six Conversations With Zooey and Joseph, Filmmaking Specials

All About Steve

Is this the year of Sandra Bullock?  With The Blindside, The Proposal and this film, it would be hard to argue otherwise. Your main weapon in that argument would be this film, which is highly forgettable and was definitely her worst of the year. If you’re a fan of Bradley Cooper, maybe you check this out, but even then, I don’t know.

Supplements: Commentary by writer Kim Barker, Sandra Bullock, Thomas Haden Church, Bradley Cooper, Ken Jeong and director Phil Traill, All About All About Steve, Gag Reel, Crew Snapshots To Mary’s Rap, Take A Stab at Vocab!, Fox Movie Channel Presents Casting Session

Family Guy: Something, Something, Something, Dark Side

Ah, “Family Guy,” your lack of creative writing and thought causes you to use and reference every other work of pop culture from the last 30 years. I’ll admit, even when you do that, I am still a fan. This is the second of their Star Wars rip-offs, I mean, homages, and by far it will be the best thing they do all year, such was the case with Blue Harvest. It will be funny, it will follow the story of Empire step-by-step and it will make unrelated references to “Happy Days,” Bill Clinton, wards of the state, Carl Lewis botching the National Anthem (“uh-oh”) and “Charles in Charge,” but overall it’s going to be talked about and if you don’t buy this you will be out of the loop.

Supplements: “Something Something Something” pop-up video, The Dark Side of Poster Art, Animatic version of the episode, Deleted scenes, Digital Copy

Extract

The newest Mike Judge creation, expect this to become cult material in no time, as with all his other work.  Jason Bateman has really displayed a comedic style, playing the straight man so well. Check the review.

Supplements: Mike Judge’s Secret Recipe, Deleted scenes, Extended scenes

Pandorum

Didn’t see it. Looked like a complete copy of Alien.  It’s got Dennis Quaid (the non-hotel-room-fee-evading one) and Ben Foster in it, so that’s something right?  Maybe our review could give you a better idea.

Supplements: Audio commentary, The World of Elysium: Behind-the-scenes featurette, Flight team training video, Deleted and alternate scenes, Still galleries

It Might Get Loud

A documentary for anyone who is a fan of rock music and its key instrument.  Featuring The Edge, Jimmy Paige and Jack White, what more could one with an ax ask for?

Supplements: Toronto Film Festival Press Conference, BD-Live

American Pie: The Book of Love

Remember 1999, when there was a movie about a group of guys trying to lose their virginity before college, it involved some crazy scenarios, horrible yet comical results, and we all had a big laugh?  What was that movie’s name? Oh yeah, it was American Pie.  Well it seems that the people behind this continuation think we’ve all had memory loss because this is basically an exact repeat of that film, only 10 years later. They even decided to include Eugene Levy in it, as a slap-in-the-face insult to us viewers. Really now, if you’re going to use the American Pie name in the same vein as the National Lampoon name is used, don’t make the same movie twice. National Lampoon sure as hell didn’t try to make Animal House a second time 10 years later, with Stephen Furst reprising his role as “Dorfman” and pass it off as something new and original.

Supplements: Deleted scenes, Gag reel, Featurettes, American Pie Trivia, BD-Live, My Scenes Sharing, My Chat

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

Did Christmas already come and go? No holiday titles this week and almost no titles at all. Small week for new BD releases, however, we are given the new Michael Mann and the new Harry Potter. Perhaps all other studios felt threatened by the Blu-ray box office potential of Harry Potter. WB even threw two reissues of the first two films in the series. There’s a hidden gem in this slate, starring Robin Williams, you’d be happy to seek out.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

Public Enemies

Michael Mann’s latest.  I missed this in theaters but the use of digital cameras, gives the film a look that I don’t think goes with the setting and mood of the film.  If you’re making a period piece, a gritty gangster-type film, give me traditional film stock with film grain.  The digital cameras, especially the way Mann’s used them, looks too out of the place, almost like cell phone video or something. The aspect seems off, the gun fights look like behind-the-scenes documentary pieces. It doesn’t have that “finished touch” look that one comes to expect.  With Collateral and Miami Vice, this was easy to look past, but with this film, it just doesn’t feel right. Now what do we think of the film itself, here’s the review to remind you.

Supplements: Larger than Life: Adversaries, Michael Mann: Making Public Enemies, Last of the Legendary Outlaws, On Dillinger’s Trail: The Real Locations, Criminal Technology, Feature Commentary with Director Michael Mann, U Control – Interactive Timeline, U Control – Picture in Picture, Gangster Movie Challenge, My Chat, My Movie Commentary, My Scenes Sharing, IPhone APP, BD-Live

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

It seems that the fantasy genre has died down over the last few years, what with the end of the Rings trilogy and the demise of the Narnia “franchise,” but Harry Potter is still kicking strong and making huge money.  I’ll pick this up because I’ve gotten the rest of the series on disc..  The question for fans is, do you buy these individually or wait for the ultimate box set containing all the films and a locker full of useless swag?  Here’s our review and our thoughts of the film with respect to its use of D-Box technology.

Supplements: Additional scenes, Close-up with the cast and crew, J.K. Rowling: A Year in the Life, One-minute drills, What’s on your mind, Universal’s “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” sneak peek, WB Maximum Movie Mode, BD-Live, My commentary, Live Community Screening, Introduction to the Harry Potter Ultimate Editions by Daniel Radcliffe, Facebook Connect

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Ultimate Edition

The first film gets a double dip on Blu, this time with a box full of that useless swag I mentioned earlier.  This film, and the one that follows, really were the young kid versions of the series and who better to have directed them than Chris Columbus?  This guy knows how to make family friendly/kids films.  An enjoyable film and a good way to start off the film franchise.

Supplements: Creating the World of Harry Potter, Part 1: The Magic Begins, Featurettes, Galleries, Deleted scenes, Trailers, More!, In-Movie Experience with Chris Columbus, WB Maximum Movie Mode, BD-Live, Theatrical & Extended, Digital Copy (Theatrical), 48-page photo booklet

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Ultimate Edition

The second film in the series, considered by most to be the least favorite.  One can definitely see the growth the actors took and it was obvious after this film that the series needed some growth in the direction and to take a new approach.  A set, like the first, that will be loaded with collectibles and have the best-looking and sounding version of this film to date, as well as including the extended cuts.

Supplements: Creating the World of Harry Potter, Part 2: Characters, Screen tests, Featurettes, Deleted scenes, Galleries, Trailers, WB Maximum Movie Mode, In-Movie Experience with Chris Columbus, BD-Live,  Theatrical & Extended, Digital Copy, 48-page photo booklet.

Julie & Julia

No film year would be complete without some sort of a biopic, or someone portraying another famous individual, and with this film we get a look into the beginnings of Julia Child and her impact on an everyday person.  Will Streep get a Oscar nomination for playing someone famous, just as countless others have in the past? Seems odd that the majority of the special features are actually old shows of Child’s, showing how to prepare various meals.  Oh well.

Supplements: Commentary with Writer/Director Nora Ephron, Family & Friends Remember Julia Child, Julia’s Kitchen, Secret Ingredients: Creating Julie & Julia, Poaching Eggs with Julia Child & Jacques Pépin, Making Hollandaise Sauce with Julia Child & Jacques Pépin, Mark Peel prepares Scrambled Eggs, Suzanne Goin prepares Braised Beef Short Ribs, Steven Lewandowski & Drew Nieporent Prepare Butter Poached Maine Lobster, movieIQ

World’s Greatest Dad

Is this Robin Williams best film he’s made in a long while?  We’ll have to watch to find out.  Bobcat Goldthwait directs, never figured him for behind the lens, but you have to do something now that they aren’t making Police Academy 14. Read our in-depth review.

Supplements: Audio commentary, Deleted scenes, Outtakes, Behind the scenes, HDNet: A Look at ‘World’s Greatest Dad’, Music video

UFC : Ulitmate 100 Greatest Fights

Spike TV ran a marathon of sorts of their countdown of the 100 greatest UFC fights leading up to UFC 100 (really, why are they still counting?).  That series was just the “I Love the 80’s” style countdown, highlight and clips of the fights with comments from various fighters and Dana White.  This set, however, is each and every one of those fights in their entirety, which I must say is huge.  I cant think of a fight in the UFC that wasn’t on the list, so basically get this and you get pretty much every fight you’d need to see in the UFC.  The #1 fight though is a bit of a headscratcher for me.  I know why they chose it, as I could think of at least 15 fights that were better.  #1 though did have a huge impact on the future of the organization, no doubt.

Supplements: Yet to be announced.

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

Over the past few months, studios have struck exclusive Blu-ray deals with retailers. It’s somewhat of an annoying phase, but luckily patience pays eventually. Two of those formerly exclusive title are available everywhere this week, both being classics in their own right. Guy Ritchie’s first two gangster masterpieces make their 1080p way to you this week, as well as a couple of May blockbusters from earlier this year. Of course there are a few more titles, all of which only work to enhance your collection for the better.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

Gremlins

For those who have yet to pick this up when it was released exclusively at Target in October, now’s your chance at a classic film that somehow manages to mix Christmas, Horror and comedy into one piece of awesomeness. Written by Chris Columbus (does this guy know holidays films or what?), directed by Joe Dante, produced by Steve Spielberg and starring the uber-cute, yet almost old enough to be my mother, Phoebe Cates, this film is a classic that must be viewed by all. My main beef is with Warner and their need to include audio and subtitles in more than 7 different languages. Again, how about using some of that space for more features?

Supplements: Commentary with director Joe Dante, producer Michael Finnelli and special effects master Chris Walas, Commentary with Dante and cast members Phoebe Cates, Zach Galligan, Dick Miller and Howie Mandel, Behind the Scenes Featurette, Additional Scenes, Trailers, Theatrical trailer

The Green Mile

Much like Gremlins, this film has already been released exclusively at one retailer over a month ago, Best Buy, but now’s your chance to snag it through Amazon at the best price.  The film that introduced us to both Michael Clark Duncan (kind of fallen off) and Sam Rockwell (need more of his work), this film is a classic in many aspects. Great acting by Tom Hanks, no doubt, but it was Duncan that stole the show, playing the gentle giant who had to die for a crime he did not commit. Also, surprising to me at the time, that this was a Stephen King based film, yet if you’ve seen The Shawshank Redemption, you’re probably not that surprised. A must own and a favorite among one member here I know.  Again, Warner decided to load it with multiple audio and subtitle options, let’s hope that this didn’t cause some decent features to go by the wayside.

Supplements: Commentary by writer/director Frank Darabont, Additional scenes, Walking the Mile: The Making of the Green Mile Documentary, Miracles and Mystery: creating the Green Mile Featurette Gallery, Tom Hanks Make-Up Tests, Michael Clarke Duncan Screen Test, The Teaser Trailer: A Case Study, Theatrical Trailers

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels

The first film by Guy Ritchie and a favorite, as well. Very fresh at the time and fun to see how everything all wrapped up in the end. A film I could, and have, watched time and time again, it never gets old. And keep an eye out for a now older Young Sherlock Holmes as one of the “growers”.

Supplements: One Smoking Camera, Lock, Stock, and Two F**king Barrels, BD-Live, Ticker, D-Box, My Scenes

Snatch

The perfect follow up to Two Smoking Barrels. This film is bigger, funnier and has a greater cast. Endlessly quotable, if you can pull of the Pikish accent, and we all want to be able to fight like Pitt. Any man who has yet to see this film, Two Smoking Barrels or RockNRolla needs their man-card checked and/or confiscated. A must-watch and a must-own.

Supplements: Commentary with writer/director Guy Ritchie and producer Matthew Vaughn, The Snatch Cutting Room, Making Snatch: featurette, Deleted scenes with optional commentary, Video photo gallery, Pikey subtitles, Snatch TV spots & trailers, Easter egg, movieIQ

Termintator Salvation

The big release of the week for the masses. Missed this in the theaters as our review states, I didn’t miss much. My love of everything Terminator will force me to buy it and hope that if a 5^th film comes out it will be closer to 1, 2 & 3 than #4.

Supplements: WB Maximum Movie Mode, Focus Points, Re-Forging the Future, The Moto-Terminator, BD-Live, “Resist or Be Terminated” Video Archive, Terminator Salvation Prequel Digital Comic #1, My commentary, Live Community Screening

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

The second biggest release of the week for the masses is the follow-up to the surprisingly huge Night at the Museum. This one didn’t seem to have the same following or support as the original, but $250 million is always hard to follow.  Definitely a film for family night as it’s no doubt a hit with its target audience.

Supplements: Audio commentaries, Featurettes, Deleted scenes, Alternate ending, Gag reel, Trailers, Deleted scenes, Museum Scavenger Hunt Game, Featurettes, BD-Live

Secondhand Lions

A heartwarming film, but nothing special beyond that. The last time I’ve heard from or seen H.J.O. He, like many others, went the way of the cute child actor who grows up into a not so cute adult male.  Enjoy this and pour out a 40 oz. for him will ya?

Supplements: Three Featurettes, Director commentary, Deleted scenes, Visual effects comparisons

The Mask of Zorro

A very forgettable film, save for Catherine Zeta-Jones. Somehow this warranted a sequel, but if that’s any good I couldn’t tell you. This available on BD for $16, so if you like it no better time than now to get it.

Supplements: Director’s Commentary, Unmasking Zorro, Deleted scenes, The Legend of Zorro Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peek, Exclusive Scene from “The Legend of Zorro”, movieIQ

Written and compiled by The Film Nest guest contributor “FightinIrish” (peep him in the Comments section)

With Thanksgiving just days away, this week’s releases aren’t many or heavy hitters, but a worthy handful of titles nonetheless. There are the newest opuses from Dan Brown and Judd Apatow, followed by some heralded 80s titles and some more Christmastime cheer.

Please know anything you buy through use of the attached links goes toward supporting us at The Film Nest. Thanks in advance.

Angels & Demons

The sequel/prequel to the smash hit The DaVinci Code, this film is a mixed bag for me.  In many ways I felt it stayed truer to the source material than the other film and then there were some huge changes that I felt crippled the film for those who read the book. I must say that it is nice to see all the statues you read being represented here, so your imagination can meet reality. I’ll be picking it up and thank you Sony for giving this a below average MSRP, much appreciated.

Supplements: Featurettes, Theatrical Trailers, Extended version of film, Interactive journey through Rome, Cinechat, MovieIQ, BD-Live, Digital Copy

Funny People

Is this movie funny?  Are these people funny?  Check our review for the answer.  Universal went above and beyond with the supplements and extra features on this disc. Very impressed.

Supplements: Feature commentary with Judd Apatow, Adam Sandler, and Seth Rogen, Raaaaaaandy!, Music from Funny People, From the Archives, The Films of George Simmons, Prank Call 1990, Yo Teach…!, Line-O-Rama, Deleted and extended scenes, Funny People Diaries, Judd’s High School Radio Show, More Line-O-Rama, Adam Sandler and Judd Apatow appear on “Charlie Rose”, U-Control, BD-Live, My Chat, My Funny People Commentary, My Scenes Sharing, Additional deleted and alternate scenes, Additional music with James Taylor on the set, Stand-up performances by the cast, Additional archival material, Hilarious prank calls from Adam Sandler and Judd Apatow

Air America

Classic Mel Gibson crazier-than-thou action film from the late 80s and early 90s.  I remember this only vaguely, but I know it has a following. And who doesn’t love young Robert Downey Jr.?

Supplements: Audio commentary with Writer/Co-Producer John Eskrow, Featurette: “Pre-Flight: The Storyboards of Air America”, Featurette: “Return Flight: Revisiting Air America”

Cujo

The Jaws of dog films. Probably has lived off of hype and memory and doubt it holds up some 25 years later. Kind of odd that a horror-style film is being released post-Halloween. Sometimes I wonder about the marketing departments of these studios.

Supplements: Audio commentary with Director Lewis Teague, Three-part documentary: “Dog Days: The Making of Cujo

Four Christmases

I’ve missed both of Vince Vaughn’s last two holiday-themed films, Fred Claus and this film. I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a bad thing. I enjoy Vaughn as an actor, his comedy style is usually a hit, but sometimes it seems to be repetitive. Anyone who has ever had a significant other knows the challenges of balancing holidays between both families. I can only imagine dealing with a divorced family and having twice the commitment.

Supplements: Four Christmases: Holiday Moments, HBO First Look: Four Christmases, Seven Layer Holiday Meals in a Flash, Gag Reel, Deleted Scenes, BD-Live, Digital Copy

Gomorrah

Apparently this is The Godfather, old world style. Modern day, factitious (fictional film based on factual events or people) film about the gangster lifestyle in Italy and how it controls everyone who lives there, even those who want no part of it. It’s a Criterion release, so you know it’s worth the money.

Supplements: Five Stories, a 60-minute documentary on the making of Gomorrah, New video interviews with Garrone and actor Toni Servillo, Interviews with writer Roberto Saviano and actors Gianfelice Imparato and Salvatore Cantalupo, Deleted scenes, Theatrical trailer, A booklet featuring an essay by critic Chuck Stephens, Content, Timeline

The Monster Squad

Outside of The Lost Boys, this film may be my favorite 80s teen horror film, especially since it deals with all the original Universal Monsters. In many ways The Goonies meets Monster films. A definite cult classic that finally got released on DVD a few years back, here’s the Blu-ray version of that film. A definite consideration for upgrade if you have the DVD. If you don’t, by all means get this and I have three words for: “Wolfman’s got nards!”

Supplements: Five-part retrospective featurette: Monster Squad Forever!, Classic interview with the Monster himself, A Conversation with Frankenstein, Deleted scenes, Animated storyboard sequence

My Bloody Valentine

The original film from 1981. I never saw it and probably never will, but if I have to see one Bloody Valentine, I’m taking this one. Again, kind of a head scratcher as to why it’s being released now and not a month ago or even last January when the remake was released in theaters.

Supplements: “Bloodlust: My Bloody Valentine and the Rise of the Slasher Film”, “Bloodlines: An interactive Horror Film History”, Deleted footage

New Police Story

I’ve had this on DVD for a few years now and it’s good to see Jackie Chan being the Jackie Chan of old, going back to his 80s and 90s-era Hong Kong action films.  Definitely better than most anything he’s done in the US, save for the Rush Hour and Shanghai films.

Supplements: “The Making of New Police Story”, English dubbing featurette, Select scene commentary with Jackie Chan

Santa Buddies

Disney’s milking their “buddies” dog films a bit much. This time they’re coming with a direct-to-video holiday film. I vaguely remember the first “buddy” film, Air Bud, but I don’t believe the dog ever spoke. These dogs do.  It’s a kids flick and nothing more. Get it for them.

Supplements: DVD copy of the film, Sing a-longs, Music Video, BD-Live

Shorts

Robert Rodriguez, who I am a huge fan of, goes back to family films.  Is it good?  Check the review.

Supplements: Magic of Shorts, ‘Shorts’ Show and Tell, Ten Minute Film School: Short Shorts, Ten Minute Cooking School: Chocolate Chip Volcano Cookies, BD-Live

The Way of the Gun

I saw this years ago and haven’t seen it since. I remember enjoying it then so I might be inclined to grab it now that its on Blu-ray. It’s especially notable for Ryan Phillippe clocking a very deserving loudmouth female in the opening scene. It’ll relieve you of some pent-up aggression.

Supplements: TBA