DVD Reviews
Get the skinny on DVD releases and current world and independent films.
There Will Be Blood 2-Disc Collector's Edition
There Will Be Blood is the kind of film for which the cliche "instant classic" was invented, and the pleasures of Daniel Day-Lewis' mysogonistic oilman Daniel Plainview, Paul Dano's snivelling faith healer Eli Sunday, Robert Elswit's Oscar-winning cinematography, Jonny Greenwood's haunting score, and Anderson's endlessly quotable dialogue only deepen with repeated viewings. After having seen it over a dozen times, There Will Be Blood still strikes me as a perfect film.
There Will Be Blood is the kind of film for which the cliche "instant classic" was invented, and the pleasures of Daniel Day-Lewis' mysogonistic oilman Daniel Plainview, Paul Dano's snivelling faith healer Eli Sunday, Robert Elswit's Oscar-winning cinematography, Jonny Greenwood's haunting score, and Anderson's endlessly quotable dialogue only deepen with repeated viewings. After having seen it over a dozen times, There Will Be Blood still strikes me as a perfect film.
The Host out on DVD (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Breaking all box-office records in Korea's history, "The Host" is a movie about a mutant that's a bit of a mutation itself; with unflappable confidence, director Bong Joon-ho (Memories of Murder) grafts droll humor and sly political commentary onto the DNA of a classic Hollywood creature feature. The two disc collector's edition is loaded with special features.
Breaking all box-office records in Korea's history, "The Host" is a movie about a mutant that's a bit of a mutation itself; with unflappable confidence, director Bong Joon-ho (Memories of Murder) grafts droll humor and sly political commentary onto the DNA of a classic Hollywood creature feature. The two disc collector's edition is loaded with special features.
9 Songs - DVD Review
Michael Winterbottom pushes boundaries with a film that uses raw rock'n roll live footage and unsimulated sex for a tender love story that could not bet told any other way. Kieran O'Brien and Margo Stilley are natural and convincing as young, conflicted lovers.
Michael Winterbottom pushes boundaries with a film that uses raw rock'n roll live footage and unsimulated sex for a tender love story that could not bet told any other way. Kieran O'Brien and Margo Stilley are natural and convincing as young, conflicted lovers.
Ascension
For people who enjoy serious sci-fi in the vein of "Solaris," Pennsylvania filmmaker John Krawlzik's first feature film "Ascension" is worth checking out. Shot for under $100,000, "Ascension" is a low-budget high-concept thriller about a suicide investigation on a remote space outpost.
For people who enjoy serious sci-fi in the vein of "Solaris," Pennsylvania filmmaker John Krawlzik's first feature film "Ascension" is worth checking out. Shot for under $100,000, "Ascension" is a low-budget high-concept thriller about a suicide investigation on a remote space outpost.
Call of Cthulhu
It was a minor stroke of genius when director Andrew Leman of the H.P. Lovecraft Historical Society decided to film Lovecraft's influential 1925 horror story as a faux silent film.
It was a minor stroke of genius when director Andrew Leman of the H.P. Lovecraft Historical Society decided to film Lovecraft's influential 1925 horror story as a faux silent film.
Divan - DVD Review
Pearl Gluck's moving documentary traces her personal journey to reconnect with her Hasidic father -- and bring home a couch.
Pearl Gluck's moving documentary traces her personal journey to reconnect with her Hasidic father -- and bring home a couch.
Femi Kuti - Live at the Shrine - DVD
This infectuous music documentary, now available on DVD, proves that the son of Africa's most celebrated musician has come into his own. At home in his native Nigeria, Femi Kuti's sweaty, socially conscious grooves are impossible to resist.
This infectuous music documentary, now available on DVD, proves that the son of Africa's most celebrated musician has come into his own. At home in his native Nigeria, Femi Kuti's sweaty, socially conscious grooves are impossible to resist.
Freestyle
Through a snazzy structure and a never-ending barrage of words, Kevin Fitzgerald's "Freestyle" provides a fascinating window into a vital subculture, its history, its spiritual meaning, and its connection to the traditions of sermonizing and jazz.
Through a snazzy structure and a never-ending barrage of words, Kevin Fitzgerald's "Freestyle" provides a fascinating window into a vital subculture, its history, its spiritual meaning, and its connection to the traditions of sermonizing and jazz.
The Corporation - DVD Review
Mark Achbar, Jennifer Abbott, and Joel Bakan present a thorough investigation of the history, power, and impact of corporations on modern civilization. The two DVD set features hours of additional material.
Mark Achbar, Jennifer Abbott, and Joel Bakan present a thorough investigation of the history, power, and impact of corporations on modern civilization. The two DVD set features hours of additional material.
Takeshi Kitano's Dolls - Review
Frame for frame, Takeshi Kitano's oddly, moving "Dolls" will blow you away with its gorgeous imagery.
Frame for frame, Takeshi Kitano's oddly, moving "Dolls" will blow you away with its gorgeous imagery.
DVD Review: The Motorcyle Diaries
Walter Salles inspirational film about young Che Guevera is out on DVD. Gael Garcia Bernal gives a moving performance as a young doctor for travels through South America.
Walter Salles inspirational film about young Che Guevera is out on DVD. Gael Garcia Bernal gives a moving performance as a young doctor for travels through South America.
Ronsenstrasse - DVD review
Margarethe von Trotta directs the true story of hundreds of German women who defied the Nazis and publicly protested the deportation of their Jewish husbands during the Holocaust.
Margarethe von Trotta directs the true story of hundreds of German women who defied the Nazis and publicly protested the deportation of their Jewish husbands during the Holocaust.
Open Water - DVD Review
The harrowing shark tale "Open Water" is now out on DVD.
The harrowing shark tale "Open Water" is now out on DVD.
Hero DVD Review
Part "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" part "Rashomon," Chinese art house auteur Zhang Yimou ("Raise the Red Lantern") gets in on the wire-fu action with the blockbuster "Hero," the martial arts sensation starring Jet Li, Maggie Cheung, and Zhang Ziyi.
Part "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" part "Rashomon," Chinese art house auteur Zhang Yimou ("Raise the Red Lantern") gets in on the wire-fu action with the blockbuster "Hero," the martial arts sensation starring Jet Li, Maggie Cheung, and Zhang Ziyi.
Before Sunset - DVD Review
Richard Linklater's wonderfully romantic sequel to his 1995 slacker love story "Before Sunrise" is one of our favorite films of the year. Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke reprise their roles for one a real-time stroll through Paris, and the result is a milestone for aging Generation X.
Richard Linklater's wonderfully romantic sequel to his 1995 slacker love story "Before Sunrise" is one of our favorite films of the year. Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke reprise their roles for one a real-time stroll through Paris, and the result is a milestone for aging Generation X.
Dancing At The Blue Iguana DVD
Michael Radford's drama "Dancing At The Blue Iguana" follows the lives of five strip club dancers converge over the course of one week. The A list cast includes Daryl Hannah, Sandra Oh, Charlotte Ayanna, and Jennifer Tilly.
Michael Radford's drama "Dancing At The Blue Iguana" follows the lives of five strip club dancers converge over the course of one week. The A list cast includes Daryl Hannah, Sandra Oh, Charlotte Ayanna, and Jennifer Tilly.
DVD Review: Dogville
A review of Lars Von Trier's masterpiece "Dogville" starring Nicole Kidman as Grace, a young woman in desperate straights who is taken in by the good people of Dogville, an American frontier town during the depression. Paul Bettany, Chloe Sevigny, Lauren Bacall, Jeremy Davies, Stellan Skarsgard, James Caan and Patricia Clarkson also star.
A review of Lars Von Trier's masterpiece "Dogville" starring Nicole Kidman as Grace, a young woman in desperate straights who is taken in by the good people of Dogville, an American frontier town during the depression. Paul Bettany, Chloe Sevigny, Lauren Bacall, Jeremy Davies, Stellan Skarsgard, James Caan and Patricia Clarkson also star.
The Leopard Criterion Collection DVD Review
Visconti's sumptuous Sicilian epic "The Leopard," starring Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, and Claudia Cardinale is now available its first US home video release in a 3-DVD Criterion Collection set.
Visconti's sumptuous Sicilian epic "The Leopard," starring Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, and Claudia Cardinale is now available its first US home video release in a 3-DVD Criterion Collection set.
The Testament of Dr. Mabuse - Criterion Collection DVD - Review
A review of Fritz Lang's 1933 thriller "The Testament of Dr. Mabuse" in the two-DVD Criterion Collection edition.
A review of Fritz Lang's 1933 thriller "The Testament of Dr. Mabuse" in the two-DVD Criterion Collection edition.
Aberdeen
Lena Headey and Stellan Skarsgård are on a substance-addled road trip to reach Charlotte Rampling on her death bed.
Lena Headey and Stellan Skarsgård are on a substance-addled road trip to reach Charlotte Rampling on her death bed.
Ali: Fear Eats the Soul
An immigrant worker falls in love with a German cleaning lady in this Fassbinder's classic.
An immigrant worker falls in love with a German cleaning lady in this Fassbinder's classic.
Prozac Nation
Miramax never released "Prozac Nation" in theaters. Watch it on DVD and you'll understand why. A busty, beautiful, emotive Christina Ricci gives her all to the part of depressive, hot shot writer Lizze Wurtzel. Unfortunately, the final result is thin and shrill.
Miramax never released "Prozac Nation" in theaters. Watch it on DVD and you'll understand why. A busty, beautiful, emotive Christina Ricci gives her all to the part of depressive, hot shot writer Lizze Wurtzel. Unfortunately, the final result is thin and shrill.
The Anniversary Party
Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cummings direct themselves, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kevin Kline, Parker Posey, Jennifer Beals and Phoebe Cates in this smart, witty drama that was much overlooked by both critics and box office. See what you missed on DVD.
Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cummings direct themselves, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kevin Kline, Parker Posey, Jennifer Beals and Phoebe Cates in this smart, witty drama that was much overlooked by both critics and box office. See what you missed on DVD.
Band Of Outsiders
Jean-Luc Godard set out to break all the rules, but "Band of Outsiders" remains his most charming and accessible film.
Jean-Luc Godard set out to break all the rules, but "Band of Outsiders" remains his most charming and accessible film.
Belle De Jour
The French classic finds new life on DVD. Ice cold beauty Catherine Deneuve lures you in; insightful commentary offers clarity to surrealist Bunuel's inscrutable intentions.
The French classic finds new life on DVD. Ice cold beauty Catherine Deneuve lures you in; insightful commentary offers clarity to surrealist Bunuel's inscrutable intentions.
Bittersweet Motel
World Film Guide and Phish fanatic Jurgen Fauth reviews the documentary on his favorite band, now available on DVD. Find out why he calls it a half-assed disappointment.
World Film Guide and Phish fanatic Jurgen Fauth reviews the documentary on his favorite band, now available on DVD. Find out why he calls it a half-assed disappointment.
Blue Velvet
It's still a strange world: Kyle MacLachlan, Laura Dern, Isabella Rossellini and Dennis Hopper will still creep you out in David Lynch's classic freak-fest.
It's still a strange world: Kyle MacLachlan, Laura Dern, Isabella Rossellini and Dennis Hopper will still creep you out in David Lynch's classic freak-fest.
Bonhoeffer
This eye-opening documentary about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German pacifist, pastor, and Nazi resister who was part of a plot to kill Adolf Hitler
This eye-opening documentary about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German pacifist, pastor, and Nazi resister who was part of a plot to kill Adolf Hitler
Bowling for Columbine
Michael Moore's "Bowling for Columbine" is a spirited muckraking romp that has won critical acclaim, prolonged audience interest, and serious awards from all over the world, including an Oscar for Best Documentary, a Cesar for Best Foreign F0lm, and Best Documentary of All Time by the International Documentary Association.
Michael Moore's "Bowling for Columbine" is a spirited muckraking romp that has won critical acclaim, prolonged audience interest, and serious awards from all over the world, including an Oscar for Best Documentary, a Cesar for Best Foreign F0lm, and Best Documentary of All Time by the International Documentary Association.
Bully
"Kids" director Larry Clark returns to his disturbing world of underage sex and violence with "Bully," now out on DVD. It's an unsettling look at a true story of high school revenge that is hard to watch and even harder to forget.
"Kids" director Larry Clark returns to his disturbing world of underage sex and violence with "Bully," now out on DVD. It's an unsettling look at a true story of high school revenge that is hard to watch and even harder to forget.
The Business of Strangers
This is no feel good women's movie: tough talk between Julia Stiles and Stockard Channing will grip your attention in this small, edgy film.
This is no feel good women's movie: tough talk between Julia Stiles and Stockard Channing will grip your attention in this small, edgy film.
Calle 54
Move the furniture, line up the tequila shots, and get ready to boogie down in your living room: The infectuous Latin jazz documentary "Calle 54" is out on DVD.
Move the furniture, line up the tequila shots, and get ready to boogie down in your living room: The infectuous Latin jazz documentary "Calle 54" is out on DVD.
The Cars That Ate Paris
Peter Weir's early film is a surreal satire that will please horror aficianados and anybody with a taste for the bizarre.
Peter Weir's early film is a surreal satire that will please horror aficianados and anybody with a taste for the bizarre.
Children of Paradise
Marcel Carné's poetic 1945 classic lives up to the hype it has received over the years, and with Criterion's restored DVD, it looks as good as it hasn't in decades: this film might just be perfect.
Marcel Carné's poetic 1945 classic lives up to the hype it has received over the years, and with Criterion's restored DVD, it looks as good as it hasn't in decades: this film might just be perfect.
The Company DVD
A DVD Review of "The Company." Robert Altman turns his attentions to the ballet in his latest ensemble film, starring Neve Campbell, Malcolm McDowell, and the Chicago Joffrey Ballet.
A DVD Review of "The Company." Robert Altman turns his attentions to the ballet in his latest ensemble film, starring Neve Campbell, Malcolm McDowell, and the Chicago Joffrey Ballet.
Contempt
Brigitte Bardot shares the screen with Fritz Lang and Jack Palance in Jean-Luc Godard's absorbing 1963 film about love and the movies.
Brigitte Bardot shares the screen with Fritz Lang and Jack Palance in Jean-Luc Godard's absorbing 1963 film about love and the movies.
The Closet
Daniel Auteil and Gerard Depardieu ham it up in Francis Veber's comedy about an accountant in a condom factory who pretends to be gay to keep his job.
Daniel Auteil and Gerard Depardieu ham it up in Francis Veber's comedy about an accountant in a condom factory who pretends to be gay to keep his job.
CQ
Roman Coppola's debut, a superstylish confection about a young artist in Paris working on a film much like "Barbarella" is first-rate fluffy fun.
Roman Coppola's debut, a superstylish confection about a young artist in Paris working on a film much like "Barbarella" is first-rate fluffy fun.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
Ang Lee's Oscar-winning kung-fu spectacular looks stunning, and the disc is stuffed with special features
Ang Lee's Oscar-winning kung-fu spectacular looks stunning, and the disc is stuffed with special features
Daisies
The return of Vera Chytilova's 1966 free-wheeling feminist romp marks the rerelease of a series of Czech New Wave films. Join the revolution with two naughty girls named Marie in our guest reviewer's new favorite film.
The return of Vera Chytilova's 1966 free-wheeling feminist romp marks the rerelease of a series of Czech New Wave films. Join the revolution with two naughty girls named Marie in our guest reviewer's new favorite film.
Dancing At The Blue Iguana
Daryl Hannah, Sandra Oh, Charlotte Ayanna, and Jennifer Tilly shake their booties in Michael Radford's unsentimental look at strip club performers.
Daryl Hannah, Sandra Oh, Charlotte Ayanna, and Jennifer Tilly shake their booties in Michael Radford's unsentimental look at strip club performers.
Das Boot (The Original Uncut Version) DVD
A review of Wolfgang Petersen's seminal submarine movie in the uncut directior's version.
A review of Wolfgang Petersen's seminal submarine movie in the uncut directior's version.
The Einstein of Sex
Celebrated gay filmmaker Rosa von Praunheim tells the story of sex pioneer Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld with humor, compassion, and plenty of naked frolicking.
Celebrated gay filmmaker Rosa von Praunheim tells the story of sex pioneer Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld with humor, compassion, and plenty of naked frolicking.
Everybody's Famous
This quirky and touching Dutch comedy, one of the 2001 Academy Awards nominees for Best Foreign Film, is one of the funniest movies of the year.
This quirky and touching Dutch comedy, one of the 2001 Academy Awards nominees for Best Foreign Film, is one of the funniest movies of the year.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Johnny Depp and Bencio del Toro play two drug-crazed freaks on a rampage through 1971 Las Vegas in Terry Gilliam's twisted adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's cult classic, now out in a lavish two-disc DVD set from the Criterion Collection.
Johnny Depp and Bencio del Toro play two drug-crazed freaks on a rampage through 1971 Las Vegas in Terry Gilliam's twisted adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's cult classic, now out in a lavish two-disc DVD set from the Criterion Collection.
Grave of the Fireflies
One of the most devastating war movies ever made, this animated Japanese classic tells the fate of two orphans after their city is firebombed.
One of the most devastating war movies ever made, this animated Japanese classic tells the fate of two orphans after their city is firebombed.
A Hard Day's Night
The Fab Four's first feature film! The Beatles' superbly entertaining, irreverent first film comes with all the special features a fan could wish for.
The Fab Four's first feature film! The Beatles' superbly entertaining, irreverent first film comes with all the special features a fan could wish for.
Hedwig and The Angry Inch
After stage and the movie theaters, "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" comes to rock your home entertainment system. John Cameron Mitchell's rousing transexual rock musical is out on an oh-so-fabulous DVD.
After stage and the movie theaters, "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" comes to rock your home entertainment system. John Cameron Mitchell's rousing transexual rock musical is out on an oh-so-fabulous DVD.
From Mao to Mozart
Twenty years ago, violin virtuoso Isaac Stern visited China to play concerts and "say hello with music." The resulting documentary won an Academy Award. Now it's out on DVD, and it's as fresh and inspiring now as it was then.
Twenty years ago, violin virtuoso Isaac Stern visited China to play concerts and "say hello with music." The resulting documentary won an Academy Award. Now it's out on DVD, and it's as fresh and inspiring now as it was then.
George Washington
David Gordon Green's acclaimed debut is the latest film to get the royal Criterion treatment.
David Gordon Green's acclaimed debut is the latest film to get the royal Criterion treatment.
The Housekeeper
In this lovely French film by Claude Berri, middle-aged divorcé Jean-Pierre Bacri finds solace with his irrepressible young housekeeper (Émilie Dequenne.) Can their improbable affair work out?
In this lovely French film by Claude Berri, middle-aged divorcé Jean-Pierre Bacri finds solace with his irrepressible young housekeeper (Émilie Dequenne.) Can their improbable affair work out?
Ghost World
One of the the best films of 2001. Terry Zwigoff adaptation of Daiel Clowe's comic book breathes genuine teenage ennui.
One of the the best films of 2001. Terry Zwigoff adaptation of Daiel Clowe's comic book breathes genuine teenage ennui.
The Kids Are All Right
Jeff Stein's classic documentary about legendary rock band The Who has been painstakingly restored to full, rip-roaring glory.
Jeff Stein's classic documentary about legendary rock band The Who has been painstakingly restored to full, rip-roaring glory.
Idi Amin Dada
A new Criterion DVD unearthes this first-hand portrait of the Ugandan dictator by French filmmaker Barbet Schroeder. This eye-opening document should not be missed by anybody with an interest in the human capacity for evil.
A new Criterion DVD unearthes this first-hand portrait of the Ugandan dictator by French filmmaker Barbet Schroeder. This eye-opening document should not be missed by anybody with an interest in the human capacity for evil.
Iris
The true story of Iris Murdoch's decline from Alzheimer's, with remarkable performances by Kate Winslet and Judi Dench, works better on the small screen.
The true story of Iris Murdoch's decline from Alzheimer's, with remarkable performances by Kate Winslet and Judi Dench, works better on the small screen.
Italian for Beginners
The handheld camera aesthetics of Dogme 95 look terrible on DVD, but the warm humor of Lone Scherfig's Danish comedy still convinces.
The handheld camera aesthetics of Dogme 95 look terrible on DVD, but the warm humor of Lone Scherfig's Danish comedy still convinces.
The Lord of the Rings: Extended Edition
Did we really need another DVD version of "The Fellowship of the Ring"? Jürgen says: of course we did!
Did we really need another DVD version of "The Fellowship of the Ring"? Jürgen says: of course we did!
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
The film was shot in New Zealand, but the marketing decisions seem to get made in Mordor: just like last year, New Line is releasing a thinly appointed DVD set of "The Two Towers" now, only to follow up with a deluxe 4-disc extended version in November. Should Frodo-fanatics wait, or can they quench their Hobbit-hankering right now?
The film was shot in New Zealand, but the marketing decisions seem to get made in Mordor: just like last year, New Line is releasing a thinly appointed DVD set of "The Two Towers" now, only to follow up with a deluxe 4-disc extended version in November. Should Frodo-fanatics wait, or can they quench their Hobbit-hankering right now?
The Lost Honor Of Katharina Blum
Volker Schlöndorff and Margarete von Trotta's take on Heinrich Böll's polemic against the power of the state and media, "The Lost Honor Of Katharina Blum," is as pressing now as it was in 1975.
Volker Schlöndorff and Margarete von Trotta's take on Heinrich Böll's polemic against the power of the state and media, "The Lost Honor Of Katharina Blum," is as pressing now as it was in 1975.
Lovers On The Bridge
Leos Carax' delirious 1991 love story about a homelss couple is wildly poetic and always surprising. Juliette Binoche plays a painter who is losing her sight and falls for a fire eater who makes his home on the Pont Neuf in the heart of Paris. At the time, "Les Amants Du Point-Neuf" was the most expensive French film ever made.
Leos Carax' delirious 1991 love story about a homelss couple is wildly poetic and always surprising. Juliette Binoche plays a painter who is losing her sight and falls for a fire eater who makes his home on the Pont Neuf in the heart of Paris. At the time, "Les Amants Du Point-Neuf" was the most expensive French film ever made.
The Magdalene Sisters
Peter Mullins' powerful film recreates a shameful period in Irish history through the fictional stories of three girls.
Peter Mullins' powerful film recreates a shameful period in Irish history through the fictional stories of three girls.
Mario Bava
Fear and Loathing in Italy: enjoy the schlock-artsy horror classsics "Blood and Black Lace" and "Whip and the Body" in restored digital splendor.
Fear and Loathing in Italy: enjoy the schlock-artsy horror classsics "Blood and Black Lace" and "Whip and the Body" in restored digital splendor.
Melies the Magician
Before George Lucas, there was George Melies, the pioneer of fantasy film. Facets Video's DVD release "Melies the Magician" combines a documentary about Melies' career with fifteen short films in restored splendor.
Before George Lucas, there was George Melies, the pioneer of fantasy film. Facets Video's DVD release "Melies the Magician" combines a documentary about Melies' career with fifteen short films in restored splendor.
Morvern Callar
Lynne Ramsay's second film stars Samantha Morton who gives a riveting performance in the title role.
Lynne Ramsay's second film stars Samantha Morton who gives a riveting performance in the title role.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Marcy finally sees Nia Vardalos' surprise hit "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," and she says: hold the tzatziki. Read why she thinks it's not just bad, but offensive.
Marcy finally sees Nia Vardalos' surprise hit "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," and she says: hold the tzatziki. Read why she thinks it's not just bad, but offensive.
My Life As A Dog
Before Swedish director Lasse Hallström got lost in Hollywood, he struck a true chord with the 1986 classic about a sensitive boy who likes to compare himself to Russian space dog Laika.
Before Swedish director Lasse Hallström got lost in Hollywood, he struck a true chord with the 1986 classic about a sensitive boy who likes to compare himself to Russian space dog Laika.
My Neighbor Totoro
Hayao Miyazaki's classic animation, now out on DVD, is gentle enough to appeal to the youngest demographic, but anybody with open eyes and heart will find plenty to love.
Hayao Miyazaki's classic animation, now out on DVD, is gentle enough to appeal to the youngest demographic, but anybody with open eyes and heart will find plenty to love.
A Knife In The Water
Two men, one woman, and a sailboat: Roman Polanski's 1962 debut is a taut psychological thriller that earned the Polish director an Oscar nomination and catapulted him onto the world stage. The Criterion Collection two-disc DVD set includes Polanski's short films and a restored version of "Knife in the Water."
Two men, one woman, and a sailboat: Roman Polanski's 1962 debut is a taut psychological thriller that earned the Polish director an Oscar nomination and catapulted him onto the world stage. The Criterion Collection two-disc DVD set includes Polanski's short films and a restored version of "Knife in the Water."
Night and Fog
In 1955, Alain Resnais made the first documentary about the Nazi concentration camps. Almost 50 years and literally hundreds of Holocaust movies later, it is still the most devastating film of its kind. The masterpiece that Francois Truffaut called "the greatest movie ever made" is now available on Criterion DVD.
In 1955, Alain Resnais made the first documentary about the Nazi concentration camps. Almost 50 years and literally hundreds of Holocaust movies later, it is still the most devastating film of its kind. The masterpiece that Francois Truffaut called "the greatest movie ever made" is now available on Criterion DVD.
À Nous La Liberte
Rene Clair's 1931 comedy about the fate of two escaped convicts looks fresh and clean in this new DVD transfer courtesy of the Criterion Collection.
Rene Clair's 1931 comedy about the fate of two escaped convicts looks fresh and clean in this new DVD transfer courtesy of the Criterion Collection.
O
The cast is red-hot: Julia Stiles, Joshnett Harnett, and Mekhi Phifer, but Tim Blake Nelson's controversial adaptation of Shakespeare's "Othello" sheds no new light on the American teen scene.
The cast is red-hot: Julia Stiles, Joshnett Harnett, and Mekhi Phifer, but Tim Blake Nelson's controversial adaptation of Shakespeare's "Othello" sheds no new light on the American teen scene.
Onibaba
Two murderous women try to make a living in times of war in the Japanese classic.
Two murderous women try to make a living in times of war in the Japanese classic.
Queer as Folk
The first season of this groundbreaking TV series, now out on DVD, offers a compelling panorama of urban gay life, including daring sex scenes couched in solid soap opera plots.
The first season of this groundbreaking TV series, now out on DVD, offers a compelling panorama of urban gay life, including daring sex scenes couched in solid soap opera plots.
Rabbit Proof Fence
Director Phillip Noyce probes Australia's dark past, when aboriginie children, the so-called "Stolen Generation," were taken from their parents for reeducation. The amateur child actors steal the show from Sir Kenneth Branagh.
Director Phillip Noyce probes Australia's dark past, when aboriginie children, the so-called "Stolen Generation," were taken from their parents for reeducation. The amateur child actors steal the show from Sir Kenneth Branagh.
Roots of Rhythm
Harry Belafonte narrates this fine documentary that explores the long and rich history of Latin music.
Harry Belafonte narrates this fine documentary that explores the long and rich history of Latin music.
Onibaba
Two murderous women try to make a living in times of war in Kaneto Shindo's Japanese classic film.
Two murderous women try to make a living in times of war in Kaneto Shindo's Japanese classic film.
Pepe Le Moko
Jean Gabin is utterly winning in this supremely entertaining crime classic set in the exotic maze of the Casbah.
Jean Gabin is utterly winning in this supremely entertaining crime classic set in the exotic maze of the Casbah.
Schizopolis
Naked men streak through a park, a randy bugman spews nonsense while he's persued by a mysterious film team, the camera pans to a tree adorned with a sign: "Idea missing." Yes, it's Steven Soderbergh's classic mindbender "Schizopolis."
Naked men streak through a park, a randy bugman spews nonsense while he's persued by a mysterious film team, the camera pans to a tree adorned with a sign: "Idea missing." Yes, it's Steven Soderbergh's classic mindbender "Schizopolis."
The Sea
Baltasar Kormakur's 2002 crically aclaimed Icelandic film is a eanspirited, tragic, and hilarious portrait of a dysfunctional family.
Baltasar Kormakur's 2002 crically aclaimed Icelandic film is a eanspirited, tragic, and hilarious portrait of a dysfunctional family.
Shadow Skill
This anime action-adventure now out on DVD offers impressive fight sequences but not much else. It feels a bit like looking over someone else's shoulder at the arcade.
This anime action-adventure now out on DVD offers impressive fight sequences but not much else. It feels a bit like looking over someone else's shoulder at the arcade.
So Close
Hong Kong action choreographer Corey Yuen shows Quentin Tarantino how it's done: stylish wire-fu, high tech gadgets and three of Asia's sexiest actresses make "So Close" buckets of high-flying fun.
Hong Kong action choreographer Corey Yuen shows Quentin Tarantino how it's done: stylish wire-fu, high tech gadgets and three of Asia's sexiest actresses make "So Close" buckets of high-flying fun.
Space is the Place
It's the end of the world--don't you know that yet? Sun Ra's unique blend of avant-jazz film, head flick, sci-fi spoof and blaxploitation is the grooviest movie about a crew of black spacemen dressed as Egyptian gods you will ever see.
It's the end of the world--don't you know that yet? Sun Ra's unique blend of avant-jazz film, head flick, sci-fi spoof and blaxploitation is the grooviest movie about a crew of black spacemen dressed as Egyptian gods you will ever see.
The Specialist
A haunting portrait of Adolf Eichmann during the 1960 trial in Jerusalem, Eyal Sivan's documentary offers profound insights into the mechanics of the Holocaust.
A haunting portrait of Adolf Eichmann during the 1960 trial in Jerusalem, Eyal Sivan's documentary offers profound insights into the mechanics of the Holocaust.
La Strada
One of Fellini's best films, "La Strada" is an essential classic of world cinema that's bound to break your heart.
One of Fellini's best films, "La Strada" is an essential classic of world cinema that's bound to break your heart.
Tully DVD Review
Hilary Birmingham's indie drama "Tully" succeeds because of the wonderful perfomances of its actors, including Julianne Nicholson, whose freckled skin seems to glow from within.
Hilary Birmingham's indie drama "Tully" succeeds because of the wonderful perfomances of its actors, including Julianne Nicholson, whose freckled skin seems to glow from within.
Twin Peaks: The First Season Special Edition
Before "Mulholland Drive," there was "Twin Peaks." The first season of David Lynch's milestone TV series is now available as a special edition DVD set, and in digital resolution, FBI special agent Dale Cooper likes his apple pie twice as much.
Before "Mulholland Drive," there was "Twin Peaks." The first season of David Lynch's milestone TV series is now available as a special edition DVD set, and in digital resolution, FBI special agent Dale Cooper likes his apple pie twice as much.
"The Two Towers" Extended Edition
The ring, it's getting heavier: this week, the second installment of Peter Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy is available in a special edition 4-DVD set with an extended cut of the film and oodles of special features
The ring, it's getting heavier: this week, the second installment of Peter Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy is available in a special edition 4-DVD set with an extended cut of the film and oodles of special features
Umberto D.
"Flike! Flike!" the old man calls out for his dog. If you're not tearing up, you're probably not human. Now you can relive the sadness over and over again because the Criterion Collection released Vittorio De Sica's 1952 neo-realist classic on DVD.
"Flike! Flike!" the old man calls out for his dog. If you're not tearing up, you're probably not human. Now you can relive the sadness over and over again because the Criterion Collection released Vittorio De Sica's 1952 neo-realist classic on DVD.
Slim Susie
Ulf Malmros' hip, dark crime comedy from Sweden "Slim Susie" is out on DVD. When beauty queen Susie (Tuva Novotny) disappears from her small town, her older brother returns from Stockholm (Jonas Rimeika) to discover the whereabouts of his sweet little sister.
Ulf Malmros' hip, dark crime comedy from Sweden "Slim Susie" is out on DVD. When beauty queen Susie (Tuva Novotny) disappears from her small town, her older brother returns from Stockholm (Jonas Rimeika) to discover the whereabouts of his sweet little sister.
The Visitors
In times like these, what better escape from the news than French slapstick? Jean Reno and Christian Clavier clown their way through this 1993 time-travelling comedy, now out on DVD.
In times like these, what better escape from the news than French slapstick? Jean Reno and Christian Clavier clown their way through this 1993 time-travelling comedy, now out on DVD.
Waking Life DVD
How do you know you're not dead yet? Richard Linklater's stunning animated feature presents a series of philosophical conundrums in fascinating rotoscope color.
How do you know you're not dead yet? Richard Linklater's stunning animated feature presents a series of philosophical conundrums in fascinating rotoscope color.
A Walk on the Moon
Diane Lane, Liev Schreiber, and Viggo Mortensen star in this heartfelt story of hippie adultery set in the Summer of Love.
Diane Lane, Liev Schreiber, and Viggo Mortensen star in this heartfelt story of hippie adultery set in the Summer of Love.
The White Sheik
Marcy used to be intimidated by Italian master Federico Fellini. After seeing his sweet and hilarious debut, a rambunctious screwball comedy with a heart of gold, she's a fan.
Marcy used to be intimidated by Italian master Federico Fellini. After seeing his sweet and hilarious debut, a rambunctious screwball comedy with a heart of gold, she's a fan.
Warm Water Under a Red Bridge
Magic elements mingle with oddball characters in Shohei Imamura's quiet tale of a company man who finds renewed life in a small Japanese fishing town.
Magic elements mingle with oddball characters in Shohei Imamura's quiet tale of a company man who finds renewed life in a small Japanese fishing town.
With a Friend Like Harry
Dominik Moll's morbid thriller, hands down one of the best movies of the year, is out on DVD. Don't miss it.
Dominik Moll's morbid thriller, hands down one of the best movies of the year, is out on DVD. Don't miss it.
Best DVDs of 2003
In a year were a lot of new films turned out to be disappointments, DVD remained a haven for the discerning film fan: our home library of towering classics grew by leaps and bounds in 2003, with weekly releases of terrific titles, often with restored image and sound and packed with valuable bonus features, essays, and in-depth commentary that do the movies justice.
In a year were a lot of new films turned out to be disappointments, DVD remained a haven for the discerning film fan: our home library of towering classics grew by leaps and bounds in 2003, with weekly releases of terrific titles, often with restored image and sound and packed with valuable bonus features, essays, and in-depth commentary that do the movies justice.