Overview: THE DEAL, directed by Oscar®-nominated filmmaker Stephen Frears (The Queen, Mrs. Henderson Presents), explores the complexities of a long-standing relationship between the former British Prime Minster and his successor. From their early parliamentary days to the key meetings following the death of party leader John Smith, Brown was slowly eclipsed by his younger protégé Blair with the growing belief that his popularity could deliver a General Election victory.

DVD Verdict: In last year’s 'The Queen,' director Stephen Frears, writer Peter Morgan, and actor Michael Sheen impressed audiences with their sharp, insightful take on the behind-closed-doors machinations of Tony Blair. Turns out, these collaborators had had some practice for back in 2003 they combined on another Blair movie, 'The Deal.'

While 'The Queen' was set early in Blair’s tenure as prime minister, 'The Deal' focuses on the years before his ascension, when as an MP he battled his friend and mentor (and now successor) Gordon Brown for control of the Labour Party’s future. It is a tribute to the talents of these artists (joined by David Morrissey as Brown) that although the outcome of the story is never in doubt, the tension, and inevitable heartbreak, are palpable.

Politics, in the words of 'The Deal' is about “the ugly business of making friends” — and so, really, is a good deal of big-business filmmaking. Luckily, the creative friendship of Sheen, Morgan, and Frears isn’t over yet: Their third collaboration, about the relationship between Blair and Bill Clinton, is currently in the works - so they say. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, and comes with the Special Features of:

A Conversation with Stephen Frears
Audio Commentary with Writer Peter Morgan
Biographies – Tony Blair and Gordon Brown

Overview: Inspired by the true story of MIT students who mastered the art of card counting and took Vegas casinos for millions in winnings. Looking for a way to pay for tuition, Ben Campbell (Jim Sturgess) finds himself quietly recruited by MIT's most gifted students in a daring plot to break Vegas. With the help of a brilliant statistics professor (Kevin Spacey) and armed with fake IDs, intelligence and a complicated system of counting cards, Ben and his friends succeed in breaking the impenetrable casinos. Now, his challenge is keeping the numbers straight and staying one step ahead of the casinos before it all spirals out of control.

DVD Verdict: There are so many misfires in the plot of "21," you'd think the filmmakers would be too embarrassed to advertise it as being inspired by a true story. I didn't believe this movie for one second, and this is only partly because it tells such an implausible tale--anyone gifted with the ability to count cards would never involve themselves in a scheme this obvious, and they certainly wouldn't be stupid enough to repeatedly go to the same two or three casinos.

And yet five students and a teacher from MIT do exactly that every weekend in Las Vegas playing Blackjack, a game that can easily be won, mathematically speaking. I know little about Ben Mezrich's book "Bringing Down the House," and I know even less about Blackjack; all I can say is that, even if there was an MIT team that won millions by counting cards, I seriously doubt the characters in this film accurately represent the real-life members.

Ben Campbell (Jim Sturgess) is an MIT student hoping to be accepted into Harvard Medical. But he has two problems: (1) tuition and boarding alone would cost around $300,000, an amount his managerial job at an upscale clothing store would not provide; (2) despite his excellent grades, a scholarship cannot be guaranteed. He soon meets math professor Mickey Rosa (Kevin Spacey), who immediately picks up on Ben's superior intelligence. Almost immediately, Ben is lured into joining a secret Blackjack club led by Mickey and teamed with four other math geniuses: Jill (Kate Bosworth), Choi (Aaron Yoo), Kianna (Liza Lapira), and Fisher (Jacob Pitts).

Because they're all able to count cards, they know they can beat any casino and walk away with bundles of money. Besides, it's not as if card counting is illegal. Ben reluctantly agrees to join the club, making it clear that he's only doing it to pay for his stay at Harvard.

After training him thoroughly, Ben, Mickey, and the team begin a weekend-only regiment of flying to Vegas with fake IDs and winning lots of money. Here's something I don't understand, and I mean this of both the film characters and the real life MIT Blackjack team: Why would students from Massachusetts travel all the way to Vegas when Atlantic City is much easier to get to? Never mind--let's just focus on the film. Once in the casino, the team uses a very precise system of hand signals and code words: coupling your hands behind your back means the table is hot; touching the corner of your eye means, "We need to talk"; running your fingers through your hair is a signal to get out as fast as you can.

Even words are used: "sweet" means that the cards are at plus sixteen; "eggs" means that they're at plus twelve; and so on and so forth. Every game scene actually makes the entire scheme look more obvious than clever. Even math geniuses would know to stir up the routine by employing different hand signals each and every time.

Incidentally, I've been calling these characters "math geniuses" only because the film tells us that that's what they are. Had we not been given this information, it would be hard to tell--the actors, while capable, never once made me believe they were any more academically well off than the average Joe. Not even Oscar winner Kevin Spacey could convince me, probably because I could focus on nothing other than how unlikable his character is; Mickey uses these students for his own financial gain, and this is for doing nothing besides "managing" the team.

Eventually, the thrill of winning goes to Ben's head, making him unable to stop even after reaching his $300,000 goal. But as Mickey explained early on, they're in it to count, not to gamble. Ben doesn't care. At a certain point, he doesn't feel he needs Mickey anymore (for reasons I won't reveal). The rest of the team cautiously goes along with Ben, knowing that card counting is a very high-stakes game.

And this brings me to Cole Williams (Laurence Fishburne), a menacing casino enforcer who will gladly beat card counters in dark rooms. Maybe he's cranky because he's just about out of a job; a new image detection system is quickly making him obsolete. Or maybe he doesn't understand the uncanny ability to watch the MIT team via surveillance when they supposedly stay in different hotels each time. I certainly didn't understand it; maybe I missed something along the way. Whatever the case, Williams is on to them soon enough, meaning that Ben has to find some other way to count cards if he wants the money he feels he deserves.

This is the kind of plot that sounds a lot better than it actually is. But "21" works in much the same way a casino does: it blindsides you with bright lights and loud noises, ultimately leaving you poorer than when you first entered. I didn't buy any of it, not the circumstances, not the developing relationship between Ben and Jill, not the relationship between Ben and his MIT friends Miles (Josh Gad) and Cam (Sam Golzari), who are nothing more than nerdy stereotypes. I certainly didn't buy the ending, and while I can't describe it in detail, I can say that it's so implausible and silly it's a wonder no one forced the filmmakers to re-shoot it. True story or not, "21" is a film no one can buy into, and that's a shame because the idea behind it is actually very interesting. Card counting is a calculated system, yet the film miscalculates from start to finish. Go figure. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, and comes with the Special Features of:

Filmmaker Commentary
Basic Strategy: A Complete Film Journal – Making-of featurette
21 – The Advantage Player: The cast explains the game of blackjack and card counting
Money Plays: A Tour of the Good Life - Featurette that explores the clothes, luxuries and locations shown in the film
Digital Copy of the Film

'Shine a Light'
(The Rolling Stones / DVD / PG-13 / 2008 / Paramount Pictures)

Overview: Martin Scorsese leaps into the madness of the Rolling Stones’ organization in Shine a Light, barely controlling (in a most entertaining way) a documentary that culminates in the Stones’ best concert on film. The movie’s highly entertaining, pre-performance prologue finds a frazzled Scorsese trying to get a clue about the band’s plans for a very special New York City date in 2006, a benefit hosted by Bill and Hillary Clinton.

DVD Verdict: Going to see a concert nowadays takes all one's resources. Ticket prices often go up to three digits, and most likely the best view is watching the band perform on a video screen. Sometimes people (myself included) are willing to travel long distances to see one's favorite acts perform onstage. Getting to see the biggest bands, like Paul McCartney, U2, and The Dave Matthews Band is difficult at best. Ironically, the cost of a ticket to see The Rolling Stones play in Martin Scorsese's documentary/concert film 'Shine a Light' is about the same as it would cost to see a live concert when many of their featured songs were popular. It ain't like it used to be.

However, the sheer power and able musicianship haven't gone stale nor retro, so the film is a real treat for those of us who have all but given up on seeing them in person.

It is a testament to Scorsese's directing abilities that the prologue, the intermittent vintage vignettes, and the conclusion are uncluttered. We get our introduction to the band and the various methods of setting up the stage, the play lists, and the operating procedures of the filming. Mick Jagger and Martin Scorsese go at the logistics in a way that has tension, but never garners animosity or loses affection for the project. In many ways, it is a labor of love for both sides, but it is Scorsese who seems the most piqued by the end.

On stage it becomes a celebration. There's no arguing these guys are dedicated. After an exuberant rendition of "All Down the Line," an early song, Charlie Watts looks directly into the camera and with a few facial gestures lets us know without pretense how demanding it is to be one of the nimblest drummers of one of the most celebrated rock bands ever. Equally flexible is a slender Mick Jagger who still struts his stuff as well as ever. Rising to the occasion is the guitar interplay of Ron Wood and Keith Richards, whose camaraderie outmatches Keith and Mick.

There's good will and good vibes all around that never seems forced. The concerts draw from San Bernadetto and New York City, and the former concert is a benefit for The Bill Clinton Foundation. Near the end of the introduction, we get the former President, his senator wife, Hillary, and several relatives who get a chance to meet and have pictures taken with the band. On stage, they've never seemed happier. The energy has always been there, but the warmth between the band members seldom has seemed more cohesive.

This concert shows them having fun, almost like they've taken themselves too seriously in the past. Never has Mick Jagger seemed so willing to share the stage. There are moments that Keith is front and center with Mick off of the venue. Then, Mick gets almost deferential with guest guitarist, Buddy Guy, and singers Jeff White III and Christine Aguilar. Even the back up members in the brass section, the dancer-singers, and the other musicians get the spotlight. As Keith says in a fairly recent interview, "I don't THINK when I'm up there. All I can do is feel," and more simply, "We love what we do." (Yet, I couldn't help but notice Mick stop in the middle of the stage while he was singing "Jumping Jack Flash" as he was in the sites of a pretty fan's picture cell phone. Some things never change.)

After a huge catalog that forty-five active years can garner, they bring a lot during their vintage performances. The play list? Well, there will always be a bone to pick, but what makes the "light shine through" is their ability to play any song and make it really rock. I was surprised, for instance, by the number of songs they drew from `Some Girls,' which happened to be my first Stones' album, but while I don't think it's their best selection, I loved what they did with it in concert. Besides several tracks from `Some Girls,' they take highlights across the board, but showcase variety in their repertoire.

"Jumpin' Jack Flash, as an opener, "Tumbling Dice," "Brown Sugar," and "Start Me Up" are The Stones playing big, but, then, "Far Away Eyes" is a sample country serving that is contrasted with blues numbers like "I'm Free". Acoustically, they play just fine with "You Got the Silver" and "As Tears Go By".

For a concert movie, they still know how to show everybody a good time. They are vintage rockers: smooth, seasoned, but still with a kick after all these years. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, and comes with the Special Features of:

4 Bonus Performances by the Rolling Stones not shown in theaters: 'Undercover of the Night,' 'Paint It Black,' 'Little T & A,' and 'I'm Free'
Behind-The-Scenes Featurette

www.Paramount.com/HomeEntertainment

Overview: Jake (Sean Faris, 'Yours, Mine, and Ours'), full of anger after his father's death, starts to find a place for himself at his new Florida high school - until Ryan, the head of an underground mixed-martial arts (Cam Gigandet, 'The O.C.'), picks Jake out as a prime opponent.

DVD Verdict: This is one of the most masculine-positive films I have ever seen in my entire life! Sure there's a lot of sweat and hot muscle everywhere you look! But that takes a big back seat to genuine character development - with the primary focus being on the muscle on the left side of your chest (Your Heart)! What an incredibly intelligent story! If only Hollywood could have the courage to do this more often - A "Fight Club" type movie with zero, I repeat, zero exploitation or gore! This rare, one-of-kind movie is even suitable for older children to watch! It is so sophisticated, in fact, I would even recommend it as an excellent resource for Anger Management classes!

The fight choreography is mind boggling! It certainly looks like full contact! If you watch closely you could even learn some very good moves!

It also made me reflect on my own High School experience! Where there were certainly a lot of aggressive and vicious bad guys, but very few good guys to stand-up to them. It amazes me to this very day how some teenage boys develop powerful, man-like bodies at an early age, but have the emotional maturity of a turnip! Is this a universal in American society? All this aggressiveness and malevolence to those physically weaker than one's self? Where does it come from? Is it some sort of malfunctioning biological drive? Or learned at home from an abusive parent? If only we could find the right physical trainer as our hero did! Wow! It could move mountains for so many people who are constantly bullied by their fellow, physically stronger classmates!

'Never Back Down' is neither maudlin or trite! It discusses real issues we all will face at some point in our life - like making a big mistake, relocating to a different community, falling in love, defending one's self from physical or emotional harm, dealing with the loss of a loved one, submitting to someone wiser than yourself, and learning to manage anger, regret and grief! This, and a lot more, is covered in this delightful, sheer joy of a film! This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, and comes with the Special Features of:

Deleted Scenes
Mix It Up: Bringing MMA to the Big Screen
Blow By Blow: Breaking Down the Fights
Audio Commentary
Star Power: Djimon Hounsou in Training
The Thrill of the Fight: Choreographing MMA
Training The Cast

Overview: David Naughton of AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON stars as famed horror director Harry Penderecki whose career has been plagued by violent mishaps and critics’ attacks. But when Harry decides to shoot his comeback movie, he’ll do it with a crew that includes a stressed assistant director (Brian O’Halloran of CLERKS), his foul-mouthed production manager (Ellen Sandweiss of THE EVIL DEAD), an oddball cinematographer (Gerry Bednob of THE 40 YEAR OLD VIRGIN), his loyal grip (Ken Foree of DAWN OF THE DEAD) a deranged Vietnam vet (Gunnar Hansen of THE TEXAS CHAIN SAW MASSACRE) and more!

DVD Verdict: In the tradition of This Is Spinal Tap, Incident At Loch Ness and American Zombie, 'Brutal Massacre: A Comedy' is a spoof about filmmakers, actors, and entertainers doing what they do. In this case, the "documentary film crew" is following washed up B-movie director, Harry Penderecki (David Naughton, of An American Werewolf in London fame), as he vows to make his most popular film to date, entitled Brutal Massacre.

This direct-to-disc offering follows the faux flick from inception to casting to shooting to premiere, and captures all the craziness between. Behind the camera is eager and hopeful, though jaded, Penderecki (who previously directed such cult classics as: I'll Take The Ring Back, And The Finger Too!), his loyal first A.D. Jay (Brian O'Halleran, from Clerks), his temperamental D.P. Hanu (Gerry Bednob, The 40 Year Old Virgin), long-suffering Production Manager Natalie (Ellen Sandweiss, from the first Evil Dead), and earnest grip Carl (Ken Foree, The Devil's Rejects).

In front of the camera are your various bimbos and bad-actors with good-looks stereotypes, and on the fringes is a cast of strange characters who help advance the plot — and burial plots. For instance, Texas Chainsaw Massacre's Gunnar Hansen plays an unhinged local who allows the production to shoot on his farm, much to their later regret.

The story idea is funny, and the actors display a remarkable penchant for comic timing (even the ones who are a bit shaky, or have limited range, manage to deliver some genuinely laugh-out-loud moments). The are some great insider jokes and even better sight-gags (not to mention some admirable restraint in certain ways, considering that some of the most juicy deaths are actually left to the viewer's imagination). Horror fans, especially the die-hards who attend the conventions, buy rare indies, and collect cinema-killers' autographs, will glean even more. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.78:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Extended and Deleted Scenes
Behind The Scenes of 'Brutal Massacre: A Comedy'
Trailer

Overview: Law plays a big-hearted owner of a small New York diner who tries to soothe Jones' jilted heart with his blueberry pie. But only after going on a year-long cross-country odyssey does she realize love was right at her doorstep all along.

DVD Verdict: 'My Blueberry Nights' had a lot of potential, a great cast, a hot director and a hot young singer who is making her film debut. So what could go wrong with all of this potential? Everything. First and foremost, The major problem this film has is its script, which is just full of clichés and awful dialog. None of the characters feel real and their stories are not very interesting at all except for the story involving the characters played by Rachel Weisz and David Strathaim which is only interesting because you have two of the best actors working today trying hard to bring meaning to their roles and almost succeeding but with how unfocused the script is, they both only manage to make you think on how better this film would have been with just their characters as the focus and of course a better screenplay for them to work with.

Jude law is just playing himself and Natalie Portman has the goods but does not have a clear direction on how to play her character and i blame it all on how unfocused the script is. The second problem is Nora Jones, who is making her film debut. She's a great singer but she's not an actress and its almost painful to see her in the main role because she does not connect with the audience and you don't really care about her character at all. Maybe if she had a better screenplay to work with as well and some formal training, she would have done better but as she is now in this film, she's more a deer in headlights than an actor.

Kar Wai Wong does try his best but he should have just waited for a better script and with such a great cast at his disposal, he should have taken the time to support them with better material then to leave them hanging in the wind and that's what i think he did with making this film. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.66:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, and comes with the Special Features of:

Making-Of 'My Blueberry Nights'
Q&A with Director Wong Kar Wal
Still Gallery
Theatrical Trailer

Overview: A tattooist unwittingly unleashes a forcible deadly spirit through an ancient Samoan tattoo tool. Now marked for death he will need to uncover the source of the evil in order to save his new love and recover his own soul.

DVD Verdict: 'The Tattooist' explores the ancient tradition and spiritual belief behind the ancient Samoan art of tatau. Jake Sawyer (Jason Behr, The Shipping News, Skinwalkers), is a modern day painted man with a penchant for the healing powers and ancient beliefs of tattooing. The man is also a gifted tattooist in the traditional sense, traveling the world to ink anyone interested.

While at a tattoo expo, Jake stumbles across a tent where a group of people are performing traditional Samoan tatau on a man. It is here that Jake also first encounters Sina (Mia Blake, Without a Paddle) instantly falling in love. Despite this, Jake decides, in a moment of haste, to steal one of their traditional tatau tools. Shortly afterward, Jake accidentally cuts his hand with the tool. Jake begins to repeatedly hear the rhythmic tapping sound of Samoan tattooing and begins to see a dark figure in flash by in mirrors.

Despite this, Jake sets up shop in a New Zealand town (coincidentally the same town as Sina) where he instantly begins to find success. Jake also finds success with Sina, tattooing her in a moment of passion. Everything is business as usual until one of the people he has tattooed dies a horrible death. Jake soon realizes that everyone he has tattooed is ending up dead. Now Jake needs to figure out how to put an end to this evil in order to save Sina.

'The Tattooist' is essentially just another horror film in this long line of unimaginative horror films where a seemingly undefeatable evil entity begins to kill people at random. Things look hopeless for the film protagonists until they figure out that the killer is a scorned ghost whose own violent murder needs to be solved. Other films that feature almost the exact same plot line include The Ring, Fear Dot Com and One Missed Call. The only thing that changes between these films, is the innocuous item that these so called trapped souls have chosen to choose their victims from.

'The Tattooist' DVD release is presented in anamorphic widescreen and features a 5.1 stereo surround soundtrack. The DVD includes several special features include deleted scenes, and an audio commentary with film director Peter Burger and actor Jason Behr. The DVD also boasts several featurettes covering various subjects including The Tattooist: Behind the Scenes, Behind the Tattoo Designs, The Colors of the Tattooist, Becoming a Chief, and Real Life Samoan Tattoo.

The DVD release also features a bonus digital copy of the film that can be transferred to a PC computer or watch it on your Sony PSP or Sony Playstation 3. Unfortunately at this time, the digital copies are not compatible with Macintosh computers.

Overview: After a young man is blinded in an explosion, he receives the eyes of a wolf in an experimental operation, but starts viewing fellow humans as prey. Like Wolfen, The Howling, and An American Werewolf in London before it, HYBRID delivers a snarlingly sharp twist on the werewolf genre for a new generation of animal lovers.

DVD Verdict: This is the eighth installment in the “Maneater” series and is basically a movie about an experiment in human behavior. Starring Cory Monteith (TV’s “Kyle XY,” Final Destination 3), two-time Emmy Award® nominee Justine Bateman (TV’s “Family Ties”), and Tinsel Korey (Into the West), 'Hybrid' tells the story of when a security dispatcher (Aaron Scates - Monteith) is blinded in an explosion, he's put in the care of Dr. Andrea Hewlitt (Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Bateman.)

Famous in her field for spearheading extraordinary-though controversial-medical breakthroughs - her newest being cross-species organ transplants - Aaron turns out to be her very first human subject! When a severely wounded wolf is brought to Dr. Hewlitt's office by museum curator Lydia Armstrong (Korey), Dr. Hewlitt leaps on the opportunity and successfully transplants the wolf's eyes to Aaron-despite Lydia's objections.

Aaron, however, is thrilled. Not only can he see again, he can see in the dark. He also has an unusually acute sense of hearing, and tears into a raw steak like never before. Unfortunately, he also tends growl, and to target people as prey!

But Lydia, a fiery young Assiniboine woman who worked to save the wolfs life only to see it donated to Olaris Labs, tries to help Aaron when things start to go wrong after the transplant. But she finds that events are spinning out of control as the firm that put up the money for her research want Aaron for their own nefarious purposes. A race ensues to save Aaron from unscrupulous persons and from his newly grafted nature and it is only those who truly understand the powers at work inside Aaron’s soul who can truly help.

That all said, 'Hybrid' has its weaknesses beyond being a simplistic gore flick. In any TV movie cash is going to be tight and the purse strings need to be handled with care. Except for casting Justine Bateman in the role of Dr. Hewlitt, most of the rest of the cast are unknowns, and there is a reason for that - it doesn’t cost that much. Except for the performances of the lead roles, the acting in 'Hybrid' is pretty weak.

But, I’ve certainly seen worse, and I didn’t feel like laughing, but I did wince every now and then! Added to the insufficient acting quality was a screenplay that was swamped with overly simple and even awkward dialogue. Another weakness of this DVD is that there is a total lack of an extras menu. There is an auto-play medley of "Maneater" series trailers before the general menu and then the viewer has the option of “play movie” or “scene selections” ... and that is ALL! This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, but does not come any Special Features.

Overview: From the beloved best-selling series of books comes an extraordinary fantasy adventure revealing the unseen world that exists all around us. From the moment the Grace family moves into a secluded old house peculiar things start to happen. Unable to explain the accidents and strange disappearances the Grace children Jared Simon and Mallory start to investigate and find the unbelievable truth of the Spiderwick Estate and the amazing creatures that inhabit it.

DVD Verdict: If you didn't already know, "The Spiderwick Chronicles" is a fantasy film with a slightly dark side. Though the film's premise is pretty familiar, its tone sometimes becomes a little different from other recent fantasy films like "Stardust" or "The Golden Compass." Some creatures such as fairies and goblins may look too grotesque or creepy, even scary for some kids - though adults may find something humorous in their behaviors.

"The Spiderwick Chronicles," based on a series of children's novels by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, begins with the Grace family - spirited Mallory (Sarah Bolger, "In America"), twins Jared and Simon (both by Freddie Highmore, "August Rush") and their mother Helen (Mary-Louise Parker) - moving into old "Spiderwick" estate. Those kids are not very happy living in this dilapidated house surrounded by thick woods. And this spooky house may be haunted. At least that's how Jared (Freddie Highmore) thinks when he notices something is crawling behind the wall.

Jared, most adventurous (and most careless) one of the three children, discovers an old laboratory. There he finds an old book that has a note warning not to open it. Of course, he ignores it. He realizes his mistake too late when he knows the house is beleaguered by some invisible critters led by terrifying Mulgarath (cameo by Nick Nolte).

Though the film's story may sound like zombie film, it is, as some reviewers point out, actually closer to "Home Alone" where clever children outwit "bad" goblins. The battles are, as IMDb's parents guide says, "suspenseful but not too violent," but still some of the creatures (including "good" ones) may look too creepy for some. Remember the animation supervisor / characters designer is Phil Tippett, whose great visual effects works include those of "Starship Troopers" and "Willow."

Entertaining and fun as it is, "The Spiderwick Chronicles" is not perfect. The double role by Freddie Highmore does not work as it should because Simon is much weaker as character than Jared. The sub-plot about kids' parents can be much shorter. Some part of the film's actions is a bit conventional and the ending is ... well, certainly unique, but you may dislike it.

Still director Mark Waters ("Mean Girls" "Just Like Heaven") keeps a good pace throughout, never wasting time before starting actions, and these actions are always fun to watch. Perhaps the readers of the original books have something to say about the way they were adapted, but overall I enjoyed watching "The Spiderwick Chronicles."

Indeed, "The Spiderwick Chronicles" is presented in 1080p anamorphic widescreen (2.35:1) and is enhanced for 16x9 televisions. Special features are presented in high-definition, save for one section. We begin with a 7-minute “It’s All True” in which director Mark Waters tells us that the film is a, well, ... true story! An 8-minute “It’s a Spiderwick World” continues down much the same path with the authors of the books, Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi, touring the set and saying that it looks like the real house.

Next are the pages from Arthur’s field guide about some of the magical creatures. There’s also a Blu-ray enhanced version of the guide that pops up creature trivia during the film and also links back to the pages at various intervals. The 14-minute “Spiderwick! Meet the Clan!” explores the cast of the film.

The 20-minute “Making Spiderwick” explains more of the design of bringing the books to the screen. Whereas the 14-minute “The Magic of Spiderwick” goes into the visual effects in the film. The 2 minute “Final Word of Advice” has Waters return to warn us to watch out for the creatures! There are also 8 minutes of deleted scenes (presented in movie quality), 5 minutes of Nickelodeon TV spots (in standard definition), and 2 trailers (4 minutes in total).

DVD Verdict: In 2005, UCLA film school graduate Grace Lee gave the world her documentary THE GRACE LEE PROJECT. Lee located women all across the country with the same name in an effort to address societal preconceptions about Asian-American females. So, you can imagine after that film and two other acclaimed works of non-fiction, shooting a zombie movie is an odd left-field turn for the respected filmmaker.

But on further inspection, Lee and John Solomon — who play themselves in the film — are doing exactly that same thing in this project that they have all along…for the most part. Despite its obvious predecessors, 'American Zombie' is not a mockumentary. It is a sociological look at a host of sensitive cultural subjects, ranging from ageism and sexism to harassment and bigotry, that just so happens to feature subjects that are members in the community of the living dead.

As the crew continues to follow the subjects through their daily lives, a dangerous rift is forming between Lee and Solomon. She desires to capture the struggles with a trained and objective eye. He, on the other hand, seems dead set on finding hidden caches of decomposing body parts strewn across the kitchen counters and bags of brains chilling in the vegetable drawers of their refrigerators. This clear break in ideals leads the filmmakers to redress their desires for shooting the documentary.

Still as they proceed they learn of an annual zombie retreat titled “Live Dead”. A wilderness festival filled with fellow Revenants, Rock Music and Recreation. Determined to garner an invite to this exclusive and highly monitored event, the pair ultimately convince Joel to bring them along. Once they arrive and events begin to cull and uneasy air about them and the duo become more determined than ever to uncover the mysterious subculture that exists in the world of the zombie.

'American Zombie' is far from the perfect film. The set-up is long and the need for director Lee to make the project feel like a legitimate documentary causes the beginning to drag on a bit as the audience waits for something interesting to occur. Even with the need to dissect the lives of these people taking up better than half the film, the project still manages to work on a basic level. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Commentaries with the Cast, Writers and Director
Behind The Scenes Featurette
Theatrical Trailer

DVD Verdict: Popeye the Sailor was one of the most endearing and successful characters in animation history with a unique way of speaking, muscular forearms and ever-present corncob pipe. His strange, humorous and often supernatural adventures take him all over the world and place him in conflict with enemies such as the Sea Hag and Bluto.

This volume is an authorized edition from the original masters and includes loads of interviews and never-before-seen special features. But just a word of caution, these are from the wartime years and do contain non-politically correct wartime stereotypes. Anyway, this collection completes the Max Fleischer produced cartoons on disc 1 and some of disc 2. The Famous Studios B&W produced cartoons are also included on disc 2.

This authorized edition from the original masters provides full-color fun starring Popeye, Olive Oyl, Popeye Junior, Bluto and the rest of the gang including: Happy Anniversary; Poopdeck Pappy and the Family Tree; Junior Gets a Summer Job; Junior’s Genie.

After all these years, Popeye continues to be a symbol of individualism and one of the most popular and beloved characters in American culture. The simple, yet classic humor of 'Popeye The Sailor 1941-1943: Volume 3' truly reinforces the fact that his charm remains timeless. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Commentaries
Popeye Popumentary Featurettes
Out of the Inkwell: The Fleischer Story retrospective documentary
Feature-Length Movie 'Gulliver's Travels'
Vintage Audio Recordings
Radio Interviews and More!

DVD Verdict: Like most Spurlock's endeavors, this series' first season creates a familiar setting most of us can relate to. Whether it's an issue (sexuality, drinking, religion, minimum wages, etc.) within our own lives, or our family or friends, Spurlock delivers an honest viewpoint about the concerns of our day.

In 2004, Spurlock directed and stared in the Oscar nominated documentary, 'Super Size Me,' where he vowed to eat nothing but McDonald's for a full month. His goal? To show that the fast food dynamo's effect on the human body can be catastrophic. In this 2nd season of this series, Spurlock manages to stay relatively detached from his creation, opting to only serve as narrator for most of the episodes.

Each segment begins with Spurlock explaining the concept of the given show's experiment, with episodic thesis statements so riffed with puns it would make Carrie Bradshaw blush. While he does appear every once and a while in given episodes doing outside research for the segments topic and participating in random side experiments, Spurlock is only really present in the seasons final episode, "Jail", where he spends 30 days in a minimum security jail. This episode proves to be one of the seasons best, rounding out the set nicely.

Some episodes fare better than others; the season premiere, "Immigration", proves to be one of the season's better episodes, partly because of the focus on a strong believer. By having the border-obsessed activist be devout in his ideals, there is a stronger connect to his side of the argument, and a stronger disconnect between him and the opposing ideals. As a result, the episode becomes one of better examples of the opposing sides being shown equally, with the minuteman understanding the contrasting ideal of immigration, while still standing by his own beliefs.

'30 Days' has unnerving maturity in its presentation of such controversial topics, treating each side of the given debate with equal explanation and understanding. Never is one side painted badly, or the opposing shone as the obvious answer to the nagging questions being presented. And alternately, we never have any over-dramatic clash of ideals.

The series is delightfully comfortable in being honest, never taking advantage of the tension to "create" a moment of two opposing views that lead to an all out war. There are no clichéd fights, yet no tidy endings; the two sides never really change their position or their beliefs, but simply beginning to understand the "other half" better. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Audio Commentary on Immigration and Jail
Deleted Scenes

DVD Verdict: I'm a big fan of TV mysteries, so I was very happy to see Arts Alliance America releasing the first season (five 2-hour episodes) of this very underrated mystery series. Burt Reynolds fans (who know what he can do when given solid material) and TV mystery aficionados should grab this one!

"B.L. Stryker" only lasted two seasons (as long as the "ABC Mystery Movie" lasted) but can and should have gone far longer, even after the umbrella series was axed. "Stryker" was a terrific series, the best by far of any of the ABC Mystery Movie segments (including the Columbo revival, and I'm a Columbo fan!) with strong talent in front of and behind the camera.

Tom Selleck co-produced, the scripts were strong by the likes of Robert B. Parker ("Spenser: For Hire" and the "Jesse Stone" series) and Joe Gores, and the directors included Hal Needham. And this series is among the best that Burt Reynolds ever did, solid mysteries with a light comic touch (but never buffoonish comedy). The cast had a terrifically smooth chemistry from the start, including Ossie Davis as Stryker's best friend and retired boxer Oz (whose character really grounded the show and humanized the potentially cliche Stryker PI character), Dana Kaminski as Stryker's wannabe-actress/secretary Lynnda, Rita Moreno as Stryker's glamorous ex-wife Kimberly, Michael O. Smith as the local police Chief McGee, and Alfie Wise as the nouveau riche neighbor whose toys (planes, cars, SUVs) always ended up getting destroyed during Stryker's cases. And the guest cast included Kristy Swanson, Helen Shaver, Maureen Stapleton, Neil Patrick Harris (before Doogie Howser) and many others.

The pilot episode is much darker in tone and violence than the rest of the series, and the true tone of the series and the full cast of characters aren't established until the second episode. If you're a mystery fan or a Burt Reynolds fan, do yourself a favor and buy the First Season (with five 2-hour episodes) when you see it, so that sales will dictate Arts Alliance releasing Season 2 (with seven episodes, several among the best of the series).

The video is clear and the episodes are unedited, and as a bonus there's PDF scripts of three of the episodes. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs.

DVD Verdict: Adapting the screenplay from her novel of the same name, Maureen Medved gives star Ellen Page some awfully well-worn pieces of dime-store philosophy to spew up here in her early work, 'The Tracey Fragments.' Shot in Bruce McDonald's native Ontario and originally released in Canada last November, the film Page showcase that looks strange enough to almost be something more. Random shots of a cheap necklace, toy horses, and a tiny noose are all well and good, but their randomness seems unable to conjure up any feeling except that of "dude, this is totally random". Indeed, the imagery is self-conscious chic enough to be noticeable but is unable to cull together meaning or even merry bewilderment.

Infused as in such a manner to be a 21st century variation on 'The Catcher in the Rye,' when the viewer first meets Tracey (Page), she is sitting naked in the back of a bus with only a flimsy shower curtain to guard her from the elements. Tracey is the broken product of an unstable home; her father (Ari Cohen) regards his children as "accidents," and her catatonic mother (Erin McMurtry) only pauses from watching television long enough to light up another cigarette.

Upon discovering that a botched hypnosis experiment between Tracey and her younger brother, Sonny, has left the young boy emotionally transformed into a canine, the decision is made to send Tracey to a psychiatrist. Tormented by her classmates and lost in fantasies about her boyfriend and rock & roll savior Billy Zero (Slim Twig), the emotionally complex young woman has become enamored with a new student at school who doesn't even realize she exists.

Later, when Sonny disappears, Tracey takes it upon herself to locate her missing sibling and make sure that he finds his way back home. While at first it appears that benevolent rent boy Lance (Maxwell McCabe-Lokos) may be her guiding light through the darkened city streets, Tracey quickly learns that to trust is to place your life in the hands of someone who may sell you out at a moment's notice.

Now naked and desperate in the middle of a labyrinthine metropolitan nightmare, Tracey makes it her mission to find Sonny no matter how harrowing her quest may become. Basically, 'The Tracey Fragments' is a movie that plays with your mind, but not for common, plot-driven reasons. See tis movie today for proof that the little indie that would ... actually could! This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Behind-the-Scenes Interview and Footage with Bruce McDonald and Ellen Page
Trailer
Winner of the Tracey: Re-Fragmented Contest, Joel Norn
Short-Listed Entries from the Tracey: Re-Fragmented Contest
The Single Frame, a selection of images on set and behind the scenes by photographer Matt O'Sullivan

Overview: Ryan (Troy Gentile) Wade (Nate Hartley) and Emmit (David Dorfman) attend their first day at high school and they re pumped until they meet up with Filkins (Alex Frost) a school bully who comes off like a little Hannibal Lecter. Before they become completely engulfed in Filkins reign of terror they seek out some protection by placing an ad in Soldier of Fortune magazine. Their best response and the cheapest comes from Drillbit Taylor (Owen Wilson) a down-on-his luck soldier of fortune who lives a homeless he likes to say home-free existence on the beach.

DVD Verdict: After the success of "Superbad," I expected there to be copycats the following year. And "Drillbit Taylor" seemed to be just that, taken down a few degrees of raunchiness. You've got a loudmouth fat kid with a Jewfro, his geeky best friend, and their even geekier friend that the fat kid belittles every chance he gets. The trio of "Drillbit" are indeed a poor man's Seth, Evan, and McLovin, in that they look the same but aren't nearly as memorable. But I gotta say... I liked the movie.

For what it was - an obvious "Superbad" knock-off with more sentimentality and less sexual jokes - this was a pretty good movie. For the interesting story, some hilarious moments, and even some cheer-worthy parts, this is definitely something worth seeing with your friends. I wouldn't buy it on DVD unless I found it in a bargain bin, nor would I watch it again if I were alone, but "Drillbit" is worth seeing at least once. I'm not big on Owen Wilson either, but I thought he gave a great performance with this, hitting all the comedic and `serious' parts when they came up. And while we're on the acting topic, the trio of kids each gave a fair performance, though the only one that stood out was Nate Hartley as Wade. Though I have to say, the scene where `T-Dog' (played by Troy Gentile) freestyles is amazing.

There are many things about this movie that prevent it from being exceptional... or even GOOD for that matter. A huge part of that is that a lot of it is quite simply ridiculous. The whole "all you have to do to pass as a teacher is drink a cup of coffee in the teacher's lounge" was simply a bad scene, and was just used as a cheap plot device to show how Drillbit could get into the school... but really. Didn't buy it. Also, the fact that the trio of kids believed Drillbit's obvious lies for so long makes them just look really stupid. There were many other ridiculous things about the movie, but there is also enough good (some even great) parts to prevent it from being awful.

Overall, I'm still going to say it's pretty much a poor man's "Superbad," but considering how great "Superbad" was, that's more of a compliment than it is a criticism. "Drillbit" is worth watching at the very least. Just... I wouldn't buy it yet. For, in truth, it'll be in the bargain bin in no time. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Commentary by: Steven Bell, Kristofor Brown, Troy Gentle, Nate Hartley and David Dorfman
The Writers Get A Chance To Talk: Kristofor Brown and Seth Rogen
13 Deleted & Extended Scenes
Line-O-Rama
Gag Reel
6 Exclusive Survival Featurettes

Overview: The curtain is going up on THE SUITE LIFE OF ZACK & CODY: LIP SYNCHIN' IN THE RAIN! Get ready to laugh out loud at four outrageously funny episodes from the hit Disney Channel original series packed with mischief mayhem and music! Plus discover if Dylan and Cole Sprouse are exactly alike in the exclusive "Twin-Tastic" bonus feature loaded with fun facts and cool trivia about real-life twins and watch the sidesplitting gag reel featuring hilarious never-before-seen moments from the entire cast!.

DVD Verdict: This DVD contains 4 episodes of the Disney Channel series, "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody." The show is set in the Tipton Hotel in Boston. Regular characters include identical twins Zack and Cody (Dylan and Cole Sprouse), hotel heiress London Tipton (Brenda Song), as well as candy counter girl Maddie (Ashley Tisdale), single mother Carey (Kim Rhodes), and the hotel's manager Mr. Mosbey (Phill Lewis).

The four episodes featured on this DVD begin with: "Lip Synchin' In The Rain," which has the gang putting on their version of "High School Musical." Inside gag is that Ashley Tisdale starred in the actual HSM as Sharpay, however in "Zack & Cody," nobody sees that Maddie looks anything like Sharpay. Even though Maddie is the best singer and dancer, rival London gets the role of Sharpay because her dad is rich. Of course there is a happy ending and the gang works together to make the show a hit. #2 is "Arwin That Came To Dinner."

Arwin is the hotel repairman/engineer who is distraught that his mother has moved out of the apartment that they share...and Arwin is clearly in his thirties. The twins and their mom help Arwin get over his mom fixation and find true love by converting his apartment into a cool bachelor pad. #3 is "Orchestra," which features a Russian Violin prodigy in the high school orchestra who comes between Cody and his girlfriend Barbra. 1970's blonde bombshell Susan Blakely has a role as the orchestra conductor, Mrs. Madigan. #4 is "A Tale of Two Houses." Zack & Cody's dad is back in town due to a play he is performing in.

The twins scheme to crash his new apartment with their girlfriends while dad is working, and unbeknownst to them, they pick the same evening. 4 is a definitely a crowd, and even more people decide to drop in. Extras include "Twin-Tastic," a featurette with the twins getting interviewed by Brenda Song (London), telling what it's like to be twins. No great revelations here, but it's still nice to see how natural the kids are what a nice rapport they have, even off camera.

It is also interesting to hear about identical twins...the truths, the myths, and the entertaining stories that the boys share. A gag reel with bloopers and blunders is also included for good measure, as well as a number of Disney sneak Movie and DVD previews. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.78:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs. [DLW]

DVD Verdict: Well directed, brilliantly acted and filmed, basically it seemed to be about the earth fighting back, maybe trying to shake off the humans responsible for seemingly devastating it. Very sad in this respect, but a movie that needs to be seen, hopefully to get people thinking about their impact as a collective mass that everyone is having on this poor planet we call home, often to the detriment of all other forms of life which have suffered terribly in one way or another.

And I think this is what was being shown in the film, and the spirit of the earth and it's misplaced creatures rising up conveyed this message very well. Though not in such detail as to spoil the mysterious effect but in ghostly ways that were just right, not too little and not too much. But just enough to get the message home to what it was really all about.

Maybe the director had a different vision to what I am interpreting from what I have seen in it, but this is how it came across to me. Also a very beautiful film to look at in it's pristine whiteness of wilderness.

And so, in wrap, if you are a fan of moody, thought-provoking thillers drenched in melancholia (very close in tone to something like John Carpenter's 'The Thing') then this film is for you. However, if you gravitate towards the more popular, mainstream horror fare or just the gory stuff, try watching this with an open mind and hopefully expand your horizons! This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Making Of The Last Winter
A Feature-Length Documentary Including: Deleted Scenes and Interview with Director Larry Fessenden
Feature Commentary By Co-Writer/Director Larry Fessenden

DVD Verdict: At this point you would think that every movie lover should know that whether or not a movie is gonna be good should not be determined solely by the previews. I must admit that I fell for that once again because the previews really make this movie look interesting!

Now, truth be told, I can't start popping off about the comparisons between the movie and the book like most people tend to do because I never read the book. However, I do know what I like, and what I don't like, and this movie I didn't like friends, sorry!

Not to take away from someone else that said it before me, but my only gripe was that nothing pertaining to the weeds got explained which I find frustrating in a movie. I think it cheats the viewers when they have to walk away from a movie with tons of unanswered questions. Like, what are these vines? Where did they come from? And why are they only confined to the Mayan temple?

I guess the blood and gore was suppose to distract us from these little minute tidbits. I won't bother to go over the plot because as we all know a group of Americans are on vacation in Mexico and they head off to explore an ancient pyramid engulfed with a man-eating plant species. I know it sounds far-fetched as hell, but it could've worked. The ending was also awful. I mean, are we supposed to guess whether or not the only survivor made it off the pyramid infested with these vines only to spread it to the outside world?

I don't know. But I recommend that you rent this DVD with some friends and spread the monetary output accordingly. However, not to be totally unfair, I've seen worse so it's worth watching at least once when you have absolutely nothing else to do! This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Never-Before-Seen Alternate Ending
Commentary with director Carter Smith and editor Jeff Betancourt
The Making of THE RUINS—the cast and crew provide insight into the transformation of Scott Smith’s novel to the screen
Creeping Death—reveals the process of bringing the deadly vines to life and the practical special effects that were used
Building THE RUINS—provides a detailed look at the set and location for the film
Deleted Scenes with optional commentary by Carter Smith and editor Jeff Betancourt: Rain, Celebration, Going Over The Escape Plan, Theatrical Ending, and a Theatrical Trailer.

DVD Verdict: Frank Allen (Ryan Reynolds) is about to give away his daughter Jesse in marriage. Before he does, however, the anal, overly organized father feels he must impart some words of wisdom to his soon-to-be son-in-law, Ed (Mike Erwin).

Frank's wisdom plays out over the course of the movie Chaos Theory as he shares a dramatic tale of the ups and downs of his own marriage experience. As the story begins, Frank and his buddy, Buddy (Stuart Townsend) are fighting over the same girl, Susan Allen (Emily Mortimer). Susan chooses to be with Frank and the two get married and have a daughter. Jesse is seven at the beginning of the movie.

When Frank leaves for a lecture, his highly structured existence is screwed up when Susan intends to set the clock ahead 10 minutes as a joke, but instead sets it behind. Frank ends up late for a lecture about time management. Following the lecture, Frank is approached by the beautiful Paula Crowe (Sarah Chalke), who was at the lecture. After several drinks and seductive compliments, Paula works her way into Frank's room. Susan calls to check in and Frank immediately runs out to return home.

On his way home, Frank (driving drunk) runs a pregnant woman off the road. Although attempting to do a good deed by helping her to the hospital, Frank actually sets off a chain reaction of events that lead to tale of love, forgiveness, and chaos. This move is extremely thoughtful and charming. Reynolds is one of our favorite actors and is brilliant as he portrays his character during multiple points in his life. Emily Mortimer is also excellent in her role as the sought after leading lady, wife, and mother. Her emotional acting is excellent. This story is a good romantic comedy that should not scare guys away, as it offers some very `manly' comedic relief. Indeed, the entire supporting cast were excellent, and Reynolds' character brings an appropriate amount of the aforementioned comic relief mixed with his unraveling. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs.

Overview: In a seedy Hollywood motel, a down-and-out ventriloquist overdoses in front of her son and daughter, scarring them for life. Eighteen years later, the son, who has not spoken a word since his mother’s suicide, and daughter, depart on a road trip to Las Vegas. Still haunted by their childhood memories, they are unable to fulfill their mother’s dying wishes to uphold the family bloodline and become great ventriloquists. Entranced by the dummy’s commands, the long journey plunges them further and further into darkness as they begin a murderous rampage across the desert.

DVD Verdict: OK, getting this straight from the start, I am a HUGE fan of horror. And so with that said, ... this movie is absolutely awful! Inded, 'Triloquist' is a disastrous attempt to blend something as raw as 'Natural Born Killers' with the classic Anthony Hopkins movie, 'Magic.' But somewhere along the way the whole project hit the crapper ... and if you make it, come the end you'll feel like you've been standing in much the same position throughout!

The story makes no sense. The siblings are on a mission to get the mute, ventriloquist brother laid - so they can create a magical child! For the storyline, the dummy is just kind of an add-on. He doesn't play much of a relevant role in the plot and isn't eerie. The gore is horribly cheesey. And the character of Norbert was so annoying that I really hated him from the moment he came on screen! Oh, but if you want really, really, really bad acting then sit thru the screen time given to lead actress Paydin LoPachin! Again, it's a woeful, shambolic set of performances!

I had thought that as this was being released from the Dimension / Extreme Series that it would be half-way decent event. Much like 'Automaton Transfusion'. But, it was complete garbage ... so please don't waste your time. This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, but does not come any Special Features.

Overview: The last magical season with Jeannie! The mayhem continues when Jeannie has to choose between being Tony's wife or being the queen of a country. Against Tony's wishes, Roger and Dr. Bellows plan a bachelor party for him. At the wedding, Jeannie and Tony try to figure out how to avoid photos since genies don't show up in pictures.

DVD Verdict: I hadn't seen as many episodes of this last season of Jeannie so I was really exited about this box set being made available. Of course I have all of the seasons, have watched them a dozen times so I was really anxious to catch some of the episodes that I have never seen. I remember seeing the wedding episode and how wonderful it really was to see Jeannie and Tony get married. I have watched all of Seasons 1-4 so many times now, I have episodes memorized!

The show in general had some minor drawbacks, which kept it from being perfect.. One thing was that Jeannie could not be shown in a photogragh but she was in the newspaper in season 4 and then we she got married she tried to hide from the camera because Jeannie's cannot be photograghed. Also after Jeannie was to be married as it talked about in season 4 she was not suppose to be able to have her powers after she gets married and would lose all her powers but she still does after her and Tony get married in season 5. There are so many others flaws also.

Like remember the time Mr's Bellows met Jeannie when she thought her and Tony were married and the other times that Dr Bellows has met Jeannie. Dr Bellows had actually saw Jeannie so many times previously and then when they get married you kind of think wouldn't he recognise her if he had seen her before so many times.

Once in the car at the office, another time at the office when she played the secretary and once at Major Nelsons house, then again when Mr's Bellows thought that her and Tony were married and then again when they actually did get married and that is just a few times I can remember. Watching them all the first time over I did not realize all of this, you really have to watch it a lot to notice everything.

The writing could have been better. I loved the episodes and think that they are all funny but they had a potential to be better! Major Nelson's character is hillarious. I loved the time he flipped out of bed and so many other times he got mad at jeannie or even when he acted as a different character. He is truly a supurb acter and really what made the show sooo great in my opinion. Barbera Eden of course did a great job as well. I think that they could have made it even funnier but they didn't. Being a huge fan of the show I am not trying to put it down. It is definitely better then any of today's garbage and a treasure to own so I highly recommend buying season 5 on DVD.

I also like that Tony and Jeannie actually did get married because it was what the series was based on. I remember as a little girl hoping and hoping that they would get married on each and every episode that I watched. You have to admit that they had great chemistry together and what a match and perfect couple.

All in all there are some great episodes on this season as well as all of the seasons. If you are a fan you will definitely watch these over and over again! The only thing that I would have changed is to add more features. All of the seasons do not have any features or behind the scenes footage. We would like to see the magic of the show and how it worked but they have not included it with the DVD's yet. Maybe later with a separate disc Sony will come up with something to add with a completed series. Maybe they could add the 'I Dream of Jeannie' movie in also, even though it is mediocre it is still worth a watch. Enjoy! This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, but does not come any Special Features.

Overview: Get ready for more outrageous antics as The Three Stooges return in this second collection of chronological masterpieces.

DVD Verdict: Their type of physical comedy that they pioneered is the absolute hardest to do. Jack Black, Jim Carrey, Steve Carrell, Mike Myers, and even the Wayans brothers, all owe their entire careers to this legendary comedy team.

After years of poor transfers and the same repeated shorts on extremely high priced sets of only a few episodes at a time, Sony releases yet another volume of what is hands down the ultimate Stooge fans must-have set.

This treasure trove of shorts, many of which have almost never been aired and have not seen the light of day since their original theatrical exhibition back in the late 1930's, is the only special feature you need. If you have any younger children or teens that are fans of newer comedians I strongly urge you to introduce them to the men that invented today's type of comedy.

Sure, they might initialy balk at the original Black & White presentation of the shorts, but I can give you a 100% guarantee that once they start watching these legendary masters go to work, they will want to repeatedly visit this wonderful timecapsule of a bygone era that trancends the two tone color of these films. The greatest tribute to these masters of Comedy, is knowing that newer generations are getting introduced to them.

Indeed, each short in this compilation has been digitally remastered and the soundtrack has been fully restored. Never before have these 70+ year old films looked or sounded so good. Gone is each pop, scratch, hiss, splice and wobbly frame. The contrast has been lovingly corrected. Granted, there are times when the picture fluctuates in contrast (when the camera is sped up to make images move faster), but that was limited to the technology for the time.

Most importantly, it shows the team at their peak. Moe, Larry and Curly were never more vigorous than during this period. While there are a few shorts that miss their mark here, many are high energy romps. The fact that numerous directors were in and out of the mix during this era didn't hurt the series. The Three Stooges Collection Volume Two: 1937-1939 contains 24 titles presented in their original release order. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs but does not come with any Special Features.

Overview: In a small cafe in occupied France the harassed proprietor Rene is fighting his own war. With the German Army in residence at the bar Rene is risking his neck to aid the Resistance by hiding two British airmen and a radio transmitter upstairs. As if this wasn't enough Rene has also got involved in hiding a priceless painting in a garlic sausage which even now is being sniffed out by the Gestapo. But Rene's real problem is his wife Edith and what she will do to him when she finds out about the affairs he is having with two sexy waitresses!

DVD Verdict: The end is near for Rene and the 'Allo' Allo' saga. Even with new cast members (changing actors, but not new roles), the program made the passage of two years in a blink of an eye. Indeed, you need to be an 'Allo' Allo' fan to truly "get it" at this late point in the series, but this two disc set is WELL WORTH adding to the collection.

If you have never seen the series you need to begin at the beginning to build the plot of this, the most popular syndicated comedy of all time from the BBC. And YES, this series has larger distribution than Monty Python, Fawlty Towers, Black Adder, etc.

With a long two year break between this and the seventh season - which is all explained in the bonus material - the time has passed in the scenario, the actors look way older. Well, those who made it to these shootings, unlike the 2nd reincarnation of "It is I, LeClerc"! The series contains less episodes and the first one is way too overly long. Almost a movie, to be quite frank! The jokes are funny, some are new, and the Leutenant Gruber impersonation of der Fuehrer is unsurpassable!

The British airmen disappeared, so did the Italian Captain, but the Madonna is fully back and so is the 'ruthless' Communist Resistance. The series is saturated with anticipation of the war end, that way (the French) or the other (the Germans), and as usual the Resistance is quite preoccupied with money, be it ransom from Germans or cash from Rene's till, all along with some futile attemps to do the Germans a real damage.

And, of course, there is a somewhat new for these series 'pudding club' plot, which ends to everybody's satisfaction (almost). I am not sure whether this is the last one or if there are more due, but never mind as we already know who won the war: those fighters like Rene that were dragged into the vortex against their will and survived against all odds! This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Comedy Connections - 'Allo 'Allo!
40-minute special tracking the careers of the 'Allo 'Allo! cast since the end of the series
Cast Bios

Overview: Winner of 14 honors, including two British Academy Awards and two International Emmys, 'Absolutely Fabulous' is written by and stars Jennifer Saunders as Edina, the demented PR guru obsessed with keeping up with the times. Her best mate, Patsy (played with glorious panache by Joanna Lumley), is the magazine editor who can't find her office and has a penchant for pill-popping and young men!

DVD Verdict: This is simply the one of the best, if not the best television show to come out of any country. A truly hilarious show of a couple of women who are completely in their own worlds, they smoke, they booze, they curse and all while wearing high fashion.

Indeed, when anyone raves about Sex and the City, you need only to remind her that the Brits did it first - and better - with the creation of the brave say-anything show about sex, drugs, and the battle of the bulge. Absolutely Fabulous is a groundbreaking, off-the-wall comedy from the early 1990s, which began with a skit from The French and Saunders Show, about a moral, uptight daughter and her extremely loose mother.

Ab Fab has taken this to the extreme. Edina (Jennifer Saunders) is the queen of excess. Her clothes are outrageous, her attempts at weight loss comical, and her efforts at motherhood (her daughter, Saffron--played to perfection by Julia Sawalha--is a practical-minded, reliable teenager) are uneven at best. Eddy's best friend is Patsy, a promiscuous Ivana Trump look-alike who always has a cigarette between her lips, a drink in her hand, and a fine-looking man (or boy) in her bed.

The entire show lasted for three seasons, and all are included in this set. From organizing an orgy to a brush with poverty to the death of Eddy's father, nothing - and we mean nothing - is sacred in this show. Without a doubt, Ab Fab is one of the greatest television satires created, although keep in mind that it's strictly for adults.

But perhaps the best thing about watching Ab Fab on DVD is that it's not edited for content. True, even though it appeared on cable, Comedy Central had to edit out a few choice words (the BBC, as well as all other European television stations, are a little more lenient than American stations), all of which naturally appear on the DVD. It's not a huge deal, & I'm a mature guy, but for you hardcore purists, this is the only way to go! It just makes it a little more enjoyable.

Some of the best, most intelligent, insightful moments (both comedy and drama) come from the constant conflicts between mother and daughter. Edina's best friend from school, Patsy Stone (played admirably by ex-model Joanna Lumley) was unwanted by her mother while growng up, and so she's even more of a drunken, drug dependant, slutty mess than Edina...and Patsy has always openly resented Saffy for being an obstacle to Edina's hedonistic lifestyle.

The partying antics of Edina and Patsy add just enough silliness to make the show more fun at appropriate intervals. So, there is plenty of intelligence, insight, debauchery and silliness to make this a great all-around comedy.

It's just like when Edina says to Saffy, "It's lovely how I call you Sweetie Darling all the time, isn't it? I wonder how that started." Saffy replies, "It started because you couldn't remember my name for the first 3 years." PRICELESS!!! We need to see more brilliant British comedy here in the U.S.

They've gone down roads that even the shows that were paved by them won't dare to go. It doesn't matter how often you watch these episodes, they never get old. Every character is just as outrageous as the next one. A definite must see for everyone. And with this box set, you won't have to run around looking for the other seasons and specials!

And so, in wrap, 'Absolutely Fabulous - Absolutely Everything' is a complete Ab Fab anthology delivering the series' entire run - all 36 episodes, all five seasons - from its humble beginnings to its cocky, self-assured years as an international hit. Plus, we get all three specials, including Gay, a.k.a. the famous Absolutely Fabulous in New York Christmas special.

Then we get four hours of bonus features such as genuinely hilarious outtakes, flubs, and crack-ups from each season; two sample episodes of the original sketch comedy show French & Saunders, with the show's genesis in a sketch featuring Jennifer Saunders as Edina and her comedy partner Dawn French as Saffy (remember how The Simpsons started on The Tracey Ullman Show?); gorgeous young Joanna Lumley, in footage from the 1960s, discussing her life as a Carnaby Street model (and you can tell where Patsy's nicotine addiction came from); photo galleries for every season; and the feature-length behind-the-scenes retrospectives How to Be Absolutely Fabulous and Absolutely Fabulous: A Life.

On top of all that we get funny and informative commentary tracks from Saunders and producer Jon Plowman on the Season Four episodes. Topics up for lively, often ribald discussion include the difficulties involved with bringing the series back after a gap of several years. This is a Wide Screen Presentation (1.66:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs.

Overview: Ian McShane is back as Lovejoy the crime-solving antiques dealer with an eye for beauty and trouble! The worlds quirkiest crime-solving antiques hero is back in Season Three, now with four discs of side-splitting and outrageous escapades! And this season much to Lovejoy's annoyance he's not the only one on a never-ending quest for wealth and valuables!

DVD Verdict: This third season, available over in England for some while but that's beside the point, finds the basic foursome of Lovejoy, Tinker, Lady Jane and Eric now moving very easily in character. Those who enjoyed the first season but found the quality of film and production a tad hoary will delight in the increasing quality of production values without any sacrificing of the stories inherent lightness of touch. Indeed, this and the next season will be the high points of the entire series.

The first two stories open ominiously, to say the least, for all of us who can't get enough of the captivating Beatrice and Benedict edge between Lady Jane and antiques self-taught expert and divy Lovejoy. A new woman ('Ab Fab's Joanna Lumley) appears and sweeps Lovejoy off his feet.

From that point things bubble up and over with just enough general surprises to warrant calling this all something of a classic. Ian McShane continues his march into television immortality as the ruggedly handsome womanizer who loves antiques with a surprisingly pure devotion despite his inherently too clever by half nature. Phyllis Logan sets just the right touch of proper crust and breeding for countering Lovejoy's hornswoggling inclinations, while Dudley Sutton's Tinker is a complete joy to watch. Chris Jury as Eric more and more convinces as a solid fourth, and one has only to sit back and enjoy one of the treats of modern television.

Some of my favorite fourth season episodes include: 'Friends in High Places' - Lovejoy returns from Spain to find Tinker has joined a monastary and Eric is now a security guard. Jane's friend Vicky Cavero is staying at Feldsham hall and quickly entagles the entire gang in a series of events when she asks Lovejoy to sell a South American gold ring.

'No Strings' - A rock group (Hothouse Flowers, no less!) that is playing at a charity concert stays at Feldsham hall but the organizer runs off with the proceeds. The group decides to sell an antique harp but even that disappears.

'Smoke Your Nose' - When the Reverend claims there is a Roman Mosiac Floor in the field next door, Lovejoy races to find it before developers build over it. Also, Lovejoy and Lady Jane have a romantic dance together. But it's all OK as she and Alexander have seperated. But just just what is that metal antique piece that Lovejoy carries around everywhere with him?!

'Highland Fling' - Investigating some sketchs takes Lovejoy and Jane to Scotland. While there they uncover a con involving one of Jane's friends. But the real question is will Lovejoy and Jane finally consumate thier romance? Guest Stars Simon Ward and Born Free's Bill Travers.

Included is an interview with McShane (part 3) where he talks about Lovejoy. Gash's grungy divey was tamed by McShane and made him a wee bit more acceptable to telly viewers, but he retained the essence and often used many of Gash's story lines. In conclusiom. the whole cast is great, the series is created with loving care and BBC gives a great package at a super price. Not to be missed by McShane fans or fans of the series. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:

Ian McShane looks back on Lovejoy (Part 3)
Alan Titchmarsh interview with Ian McShane

Overview: Filmed entirely on location in Hawaii the show followed Jack Lord as he played Steve McGarrett head of an elite state police unit investigating "organized crime murder assassination attempts foreign agents felonies of every type." James MacArthur played his second-in-command Danny ("Danno") Williams with local actors playing members of the Five-O team.

DVD Verdict: Nothing lasts 12 years without having something going for it. In the case of Hawaii Five-O, it easy to dismiss it as a typically television crime drama that got lucky by finding its audience and keeping it. The same could be said for Law and Order. Except, in television years, luck usually runs out after two or three years. Gimmicks get old, the formula is figured out, and sharks are jumped so often they don't even complain.

Some of that is inevitably due to the infinitely more sophisticated production values of the series that have followed in its wake; Five-0's technology, sets, and other practical elements are laughably primitive by current standards. Problem is, the cheese factor extends to pretty much every other aspect of the show as well. Most of the action sequences are utterly tension-free, and the pace is frequently glacial, with interminable scenes bogged down by talky exposition.

But shows that last five years, much less 12, have to have something besides luck, gimmicks, and great scheduling. Hawaii Five-O had a number of things going for it. First of all, let's be honest. The setting was, and still is so lush and exotic that it is easily intoxicating. Hawaii is beautiful, and most people either live there or want to live there. Filming on location has always been a blessing when it's been done, and probably no more so than on this series.

Next, Jack Lord, playing Five-O chief Steve McGarrett, was one of a long line of no-nonsense law enforcement figures. The strength, integrity, and dedication of these kinds of characters cannot be overstated, and these characters will always have lots of fans rooting them on, not unlike Law and Order's Jack McCoy.

Finally, watching shows like this is always a treat because you see so many stars that were either big stars enjoying a working Hawaiian vacation, or lots of up and coming stars before they got their big break. Hawaii Five-O was a natural draw for both categories, and it's fun to watch them and remember when.

And it goes without saying that it was the inspiration for Miami Vice, but this was no pastel color version of Honolulu. You can forget Don Ho singing Tiny Bubbles. McGarret looked more like a hardnosed FBI agent than he did the chief detective, running his crew like drill sergeant. James MacArthur may have seemed a little soft but he provided the necessary relief to Lord's hardboiled command. Kam Fong played the memorable Chin Ho through most of the series also.

In conclusion, it's also fun to remember when you could look forward to hearing one of the best and most recognizable theme songs in television history. Not a small thing when you add it with the other factors. Hawaii Five-O had a lot going for it then, and it has a lot going for it now. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs but does not come with any Special Features; save for Episode Promos.

Overview: Two divorced New Yorkers - a slob and a fussbudget - try to live together without driving each other crazy' in this classic sitcom based on Neil Simon's hit play and movie. Both Jack Klugman and Tony Randall won Emmys in the leads the latter in the final year of a five-season run.

DVD Verdict: You want guest stars?! You want big names?! Ok, well, just two months after their epic "Battle of the Sexes" drew the largest-ever live audience for a tennis match, Bobby Riggs and Billie Jean King squared off against each other at the ping-pong table in the episode, "The Pig Who Came to Dinner." Ballet superstar Edward Villella performs in "Last Tango in Newark" and Marilyn Horn, as a baker with an operatic voice and an unrequited crush on Oscar, sings selections from Carmen, as well as "People," in "Vocal Girl Makes Good."

"The Songwriter" features legendary disc jockey Wolfman Jack and entertainer Jaye P. Morgan, who performs the ever-popular Felix-penned ditty, "Happy and Peppy and Bursting with Love." Playboy emperor Hugh Hefner drops in for the flashback episode, "One for the Bunny," in which a jealous Felix is undone when he must photograph his future wife, Gloria, for a possible Playmate spread! How about them star-studded apples?! For me some of the season’s best episodes are the ones that go back to the basics of Neil Simon’s warhorse play: Can two divorced men share an apartment without driving each other crazy? In "The Insomniac," Felix cannot get to sleep ("I’m up as a pup") despite Oscar’s best efforts. In "Cleanliness is Next to Impossible," Felix hypnotizes the unwitting Oscar into becoming a neat freak after Oscar’s new girlfriend calls him sloppy (Felix’s heartbreak at having to bring Oscar out of it is palpable. "It’s like a dream come true," he moans).

Elinor Donahue’s Miriam, Felix’s girlfriend, is conveniently forgotten in the episodes in which Felix tries to win back his ex-wife ("Gloria Moves In"). Zinger-queen Brett Somers also returns as Oscar’s ex-wife, Blanche, in flashback episodes that continue to play havoc with Felix and Oscar’s backstory (so now they were in the Army together?) Randall, Klugman and company (including Penny Marshall as Oscar’s secretary, Myrna) clearly relish playing to their enthusiastic live audience, and this richly entertaining season is brimming with classic moments and bits of comic business that continue to bring down the house.

So, here's a tip of the hat to Jack Klugman and Tony Randall. They had a chemistry going that does not come along often. I back-up that statement by asking this question, had one or the other left the series could another actor step in? Randall sets it up and Klugman knocks it down - the result; laughter all around! This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs but does not come with any Special Features.

Overview: This three-disc set celebrates four of Dame Maggie Smith's leading roles for the BBC. The collection begins with two 1972 Plays of the Month, The Merchant of Venice and The Millionairess. Alan Bennett's quietly devastat