'Take Shelter' makes for chilling viewing on DVD
“Take Shelter”
In a film that garnered widespread critical acclaim, Michael Shannon gives a terrific performance as Curtis LaForche, a foreman at a sand-mining company in rural Ohio. He lives with his wife Samantha (Jessica Chastain) and special-needs child Hannah (Tova Stewart).
Curtis is haunted by bad dreams and begins to see and hear things no one else does. Struggling to separate delusion from reality and worried about schizophrenia, which runs in his family, he seeks medical help as paranoia affects his relationships with friends and family. Then Curtis' visions prompt him to build a shelter in his backyard as this film weaves together the finest elements of drama and psychological horror.
“All Quiet On the Western Front”
Based on Erich Maria Remarque's classic anti-war novel, this film won Best Picture and Best Director Academy Awards in 1930. The story follows a group of young German school boys who enlist in World War I and have to deal with the brutal reality of war.
The film has now been digitally remastered and fully restored for a new DVD set that comes in hardcover book packaging. Special features include documentaries, featurettes, movie reproductions, studio newsletters, posters, photos, a silent version of the film and more.
“Woody Allen: A Documentary”
Woody Allen is a very private person, and this documentary, part of the PBS American Masters series, marks the first time he has given the public access to his personal life. The excellent program follows Allen's life from his childhood through more than 40 years of filmmaking.
The controversial Allen — a writer, director, actor, comedian and musician — let filmmaker Robert Weide follow him over a year to put together this entertaining and informative documentary. There are some memorable film clips from his many movies, but it's the wide variety of interviews that really paint the picture of who Woody Allen really is.
“Under The Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story”
At one time or another, most of us have played the game Monopoly. In fact, it's been played by over a billion people in more than 110 counties. This documentary traces the history of the game, now more than 75 years old, and partially focuses on the championships that are held around the world every four years.
Available next week
“American Experience: Bill Clinton”
“J. Edgar”
“Martha Marcy May Marlene”
“Puss in Boots”
“Santana: Live At Montreux 2011”
“That Show with Joan Rivers Vol. 1-3”
“The Mighty Macs”
“Tower Heist”