DVD releases
These DVDs were released this week:
"Into the Wild"
Sean Penn directs this beautifully made film in which we meet a young and complex Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch). After he graduates from college, he donates all his money, goes on a road trip, and heads to Alaska. His encounters along the way are terrific and eccentric, highlighted by a relationship with an aging man (Hal Holbrook). The story is told in flashbacks, and you will experience what great filmmaking is all about.
"Awake"
Clay (Hayden Christensen) and Sam (Jessica Alba) are in love, but their lives change when Clay has to have open-heart surgery. He is afflicted with "anesthetic awareness" and is actually awake and paralyzed during the operation. He is aware of what is going on around him. There are many twists and turns, while the clues will keep you guessing throughout.
"Mr.Magorium's Wonder Emporium"
Edward Magorium (Dustin Hoffman) is 243 years old and has owned the magical store for over a century. Kids love all the toys in the store, along with their magic. Edward is the eternal optimist, and is looking forward to experiencing death. He has designated Molly (Natalie Portman), his only employee, to take over the store. She has confidence problems, but gets help from a 9-year-old and an accountant. It has the look of Willy Wonka and the wonderment of Harry Potter.
"Things we Lost in the Fire" This serious adult drama begins at the funeral for Brian (David Duchovny). His wife (Halle Berry) is holding up as well as she can and turns to his oldest friend (Benicio Del Toro). She hated him because of his drug use, but now he wants to be there for her. It is a story that deals with grief, addiction, choices, jealousy, redemption, and most of all, healing.
Available next week
bull; "Bee Movie"
bull; "Dan in Real Life"
bull; "Hitman"
bull; "Love American Style: Season One, Vol. 2"
bull; "Nancy Drew"
bull; "No Country for Old Men"
bull; "August Rush"
bull; "Sleuth"