DVD previews
Coming Jan. 1:
“Cosmopolis” (R, 108 minutes, Entertainment One): Robert Pattinson plays 28-year-old billionaire Eric Packer, who decides that his perfectly coiffed ’do needs a trim. Despite the protestations of his security chief, Eric insists on journeying to his favorite barber shop. In an “Odyssey”-like turn, he stumbles upon a parade of characters and hazards. He runs into his new wife, an old flame, a water-main break, a pie-throwing deviant and an anticapitalist riot, among other impediments. And all the while he talks. And talks. And talks. The intentionally stilted interactions give the film a dreamlike quality that’s bolstered by some bizarre situations. Despite the thick dialogue, there’s something compelling about the whole endeavor, because it feels like anything might happen. Even so, it might be better appreciated by a reader than a moviegoer. But the film’s takeaway seems best summed up by the first limo visitor who wonders: Do you ever get the feeling you have no idea what’s going on? Contains intense violence, language, sexual situations and nudity. Extras: “Citizens of Cosmopolis” featurette, commentary with director David Cronenberg, interviews with the cast and crew.
“The Trouble With Bliss” (PG-13, 97 minutes, Anchor Bay): Director Michael Knowles’ third feature film, based on Douglas Light’s novel, “East Fifth Bliss,” made the festival circuit in 2011 and had limited release in 2012. The lighthearted indie comedy, set in New York City, centers on Morris Bliss (played by Michael C. Hall, of TV’s “Dexter”) and his colorful if not quirky family, friends and love interests. Peter Fonda plays his widowed father and Brie Larson, the teenaged daughter of his former classmate who helps him kickstart his life. Contains sexual content, partial nudity and a brief violent image.
“Doctor Zhivago” (2003, Acorn Media): Two-disc set includes the complete British broadcast series starring Keira Knightley, Hans Matheson and Sam Neill. Extras: Cast and crew interviews.
Television series: “Being Human: The Complete Second Season,” “Trial & Retribution, Set 6” (the last four feature-length editions of the British crime series) and “Lillie” (1979, all 13 episodes of the British miniseries).