There are few better things than curling up in front of a fantasy movie that will sweep you up. This week's DVD picks, including films by Hayao Miyazaki, Mel Brooks, and Lotte Reiniger, are poised to take your mind off the real world for hours at a time.
1. The Thief of Bagdad
The villian does wear a mustache, but otherwise there is no connection to current events: this fantastic 1940 film, shot in wartime England, is a magical delight from 1001 Arabian Nights. Starring Conrad Veidt and Sabu.
2. My Neighbor Totoro
This early Miyazaki classic deserved a better release, but I am glad that this gentle, loving childrens' story is available on DVD at all.
3. Nijinsky
Australian director Peter Cox dramatizes the life and letters of celebrated Russian ballet dancer Vaclav Nijinski. With the voice of Derek Jacobi.4. The Producers
If you couldn't get tickets for the smash Broadway production, see the film that started it all--still one of Mel Brooks' funniest.5. Esther Kahn
Summer Phoenix is ravishing in the title role as a young Jewish actress trying to become a star. Ian Holm plays her coach.6. Sex - The Annabel Chong Story
An unsettling documentary about the porn star and feminist scholar.7. Happy Times
Jie Dong joins the esteemed list of beautiful Chinese actresses. Her shining presence is reason enough to see this formula-driven tragi-comedy by Zhang Yimou.8. Siddartha
Filmed in Northern India, Conrad Rooks' 1972 adaptation of Herman Hesse's novel shines with Sven Nykvist's gorgeous cinematography.9. Drunken Master
Jackie Chan's 1979 success is a must-own for all fans of drunken kung-fu.10. The Adventures of Prince Achmed
Generally considered the first animated feature, Lotte Reiniger's silhoutte film still enchants 75 years after its making.