‘Game Change,’ ‘Smash’ out on DVD

“Game Change”

This terrific film, made for HBO, was adapted from the best-seller by John Hellermann and Mark Halperin. It depicts the behind-the-scenes drama of the 2008 McCain campaign and the decision to tap Sarah Palin as his running mate. To capture the women’s vote and defuse some of the celebrity status of Barack Obama, McCain’s top strategist (Woody Harrelson) came up with idea of Palin (Julianne Moore) as a running mate. He did not do his homework, and it’s fascinating to watch the infighting that went on within the Republican party with regard to the nomination. The ensemble cast is excellent, and the storytelling is riveting, but Moore is the true star. Even if you do not like politics, you will simply enjoy the drama of “Game Change.”

“Smash: Season One”

Steven Spielberg is one of the producers of this TV series which revolves around the creation of a Broadway musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe. There are the financial backers, writers, director, choreographers, actors and a lot of backstage drama. The music is amazing. Debra Messing, Katharine McPhee, Megan Hilty, Christian Borle, Jack Davenport and Anjelica Huston co-star. The four-disc set includes all 15 episodes from the first season.

“Hollywood: Streets of Gold”

The two-disc set includes five documentaries that film lovers will enjoy for many years to come. They are:

Ÿ “Hollywood: The Golden Years,” hosted by Gene Kelly

Ÿ “Hollywood: The Great Stars,” hosted by Henry Fonda

Ÿ “The Legend of Marilyn Monroe,” hosted by John Huston

Ÿ “Hollywood: The Selznick Years,” hosted by Henry Fonda

Ÿ “The Gift of Laughter,” hosted by Burt Reynolds.

“The Jerry Lewis Show: Fan Favorites”

The Jerry Lewis show ran on NBC from 1967 to 1969. This special program features nine episodes full of skits and guest stars, including Imogene Coco, Shirley Jones, Don Rickles, Flip Wilson, Audrey Meadows, Janet Leigh and others.

Available Next Week

“Carpenters: Live Rarities”

“Farewell My Queen”

“Joan Rivers: Don’t Start With Me”

“Taken 2”

“To Rome With Love”

“Won’t Back Down”