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New on DVD: ESPN gift set, Bob Hope collection

“ESPN Films “30 for 30 Gift Set”

Sports channel ESPN is celebrating its 30th anniversary on the air by releasing the critically acclaimed series “30 for 30” on DVD in a three-part collection. The first in the series presents 15 films on six discs. They are terrific sport stories from the last 30 years, presented by filmmakers who bring their own perspective to each film. In fact, some of the films have been screened at various film festivals around the world.

The beauty of the films is that you don't have to be a fan of sports to love them. Some of the films are “The Band That Wouldn't Die,” “Muhammad & Larry,” “The U,” “No Crossover: The Trial of Allen Iverson,” “Run Rickey Run,” “Who Killed the USFL,” “The Legend of Jimmy the Greek” and more. Included are more than two hours of bonus features.

“The Bob Hope Collection”

Bob Hope entertained people all over the world for 70 years. He starred in vaudeville, radio, television, concerts and in films. Included in this three-disc set are five of his popular films. Each one has been remastered for the best video and audio quality available.

The films are “The Lemon Drop Kid,” “My Favorite Brunette,” “Road to Rio,” “Road to Bali” and “The Seven Little Foys.”

“Lennon NYC”

As we remember the life of John Lennon on the 30th anniversary of his death, this great documentary gives us material that is available for the first time. Lennon's music was great, but his contributions went beyond his songs. This documentary focuses on his time in New York City and his life with Yoko Ono. We get never-before-released in-studio recordings, concerts and some Lennon/Yoko Ono compositions.

There are interviews with Elton John, Bob Gruen, Jim Keltner and May Pang, as well as the most direct and emotional interview ever given by Yoko Ono. Fans should add this one to their collection.

“The Beatles: Magical Mystery Tour Memories”

The Beatles wrote and produced some great music, and “Magical Mystery Tour” was an album and a film that was a lot of fun. John, Paul, George and Ringo were all getting along famously, and the many interviews included on this program reveal good times for the Fab Four. Victor Spinetti was a close friend of John Lennon, and he provides the commentary. We get to see home movies that were shot at that time, and hear from people who were there.

Available Next Week

“24: The Complete Series”

“America Lost and Found: The BBS Story”

“Despicable Me”

“Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work”

“Sinatra: Concert For the Americas”

“Studs Terkel: Listening to America”

“The Town”