March-April 2016

VOL. 31 THE VIDEO REVIEW MAGAZINE FOR LIBRARIES NO. 2

IN THIS ISSUE The Danish Girl | ALA Notables | The Brain | Spotlight on Fitness | Emptying the Skies | The Mama Sherpas | Chi-Raq | Top Spin scene & he d BAKER & TAYLOR’S SPECIALIZED A/V TEAM OFFERS ALL THE PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND EXPERTISE TO FULFILL YOUR LIBRARY PATRONS’ NEEDS.

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800-775-2600 x2050 [email protected] www.baker-taylor.com Spotlight Review The Danish Girl is taken aback. Married for six years, Einar enjoys a lusty conjugal life with Gerda—un- HHH1/2 til, one day, she asks him to don stockings, Universal, 120 min., R, DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray: tutu, and satin slippers to fill in for a miss- ing model. Sensing his delight in posing in Publisher/Editor: Randy Pitman $34.98, Mar. 1 Eddie Redmayne feminine finery, she suggests Einar attend a Associate Editor: Jazza Williams-Wood followed up his Os- party, masquerading as a cousin named Lili. Copy Editor: Kathleen L. Florio car-winning turn as What neither of them expects is that demure Lili will attract amorous attention. And then Editorial Assistant: Christopher Pitman astrophysicist Stephen Hawking in The Theory Gerda’s erotically charged portraits of Lili sell, bringing Gerda fame and fortune. When Graphic Designer: Carol Kaufman of Everything with an- the couple move to cosmopolitan Paris, Lili other amazing transformation and Oscar Marketing Director: Anne Williams grows more confident with experimentation, nomination here—becoming Lili Elbe, one puzzling his boyhood friend/crush (Matthias of the first identifiable individuals to undergo Schoenaerts), who develops romantic feelings Contributing Writers sex-reassignment surgery. The year 2015 toward Gerda. Eventually, Lili turns to an un- witnessed the Supreme Court’s landmark Kathleen C. Fennessy, Reviewer, derstanding German doctor (Sebastian Koch) legalization of same-sex marriage, Caitlyn Amazon.com who will attempt risky and revolutionary Jenner’s transgender transition, and the gender-reassignment surgery. Adapted from Susan Granger, SSG Syndicate huge success of Amazon’s Transparent TV David Ebershoff’s titular 2000 novel, and Donald Liebenson, Reviewer, series. Back in 1926 in Denmark, however, sensitively directed by Tom Hooper, this is Entertainment Weekly, Amazon.com the transgender concept frustrated and be- highly recommended. (S. Granger) Maureen Puffer-Rothenberg, Librarian, wildered psychiatrists, who labeled it perver- Valdosta State University, GA sion. When renowned landscape artist Einar VL at PLA Stephen Rees, Librarian, formerly with Wegener (Redmayne) starts to wear makeup Bucks Co. Free Library, Levittown, PA and clothing belonging to his ambitious-but- Video Librarian will be exhibiting at the struggling portrait-painter wife Gerda (Oscar Public Library Association conference in Frank Swietek, Associate Professor nominee Alicia Vikander), Copenhagen’s Denver from April 6-8. Please drop by our of History, University of Dallas, TX traditionally tolerant artistic community booth (#1454) to say hello!

Additional Contributors: TABLE OF CONTENTS Sean Axmaker Carson Block Video Newsbriefs 4 Relationships & Sexuality 66 Charles Cassady Books Into Movies 6 Food & Spirits 66 Ted Fry Phil Hall Mixed Media 8 Beauty & Fashion 67 Tom Keogh Video Movies 16 Computers & Technology 67 Lisa Martincik TV on Video 49 Sports, Games & Recreation 68 Phil Morehart Key to Star Ratings 54 Crafts, Arts & Hobbies 68 Michael Sandlin Video Reviews 54 The Arts 68 Video Librarian (ISSN: 0887-6851) is pub- Children’s 54 History & Current Events 70 lished bi-monthly by Video Librarian, 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA ALA-ALSC Notable Videos 2016 56 Travel & Geography 72 98370. Subscriptions: $64 for one year in the United States; $69 (US) in Canada Psychology & Self-Help 59 Biography 72 (includes GST); $86 elsewhere. Address all correspondence to Video Librarian, 3435 NE Religion & Philosophy 59 ALA-VRT Notable Videos 2016 74 Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA 98370. Peri- odicals Postage Paid at Poulsbo, WA and at Social & Political Issues 60 Series Update 75 additional mailing offices.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Video Librarian, Teen Issues 62 Japanese Anime 76 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA 98370. Copyright © 2016 by Randy Pitman. Education 62 Music/Dance 77 All rights reserved. Telephone/Fax/E-mail Law & Crime 62 Distributor Addresses 82 Subscriptions: (800) 692-2270 Nature, Math & Science 63 Title Index 84 Editorial: (360) 626-1259 Advertising: (800) 265-7965 Health & Fitness 64 Advertiser Directory 84 Fax: (360) 626-1260 E-mail: [email protected] Spotlight on Fitness 65 Final Frame 86 Web: www.videolibrarian.com Childbirth & Parenting 66

MARCH/APRIL 2016 3 VIDEO LIBRARIAN NEW Video Newsbriefs D CU L LT R U O Ken Burns’s “Jackie Robinson” soundtrack of the

R era, and first-per- E

W Doc Coming April 12 from PBS

son stories of the

Distribution protests, poetry slams, and com- Coinciding with the TV premiere, munity meetings MEDIA PBS Distribution will release Ken Burns’s that drove a na- Jackie Robinson (DVD: $24.99, Blu-ray: tional campaign Inspire Curious Minds $29.99) on April 12. Directed by Ken that brought about Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMa- WorldCultureMedia.com meaningful social hon, the documentary tells the story of change. Telling the Jack Roosevelt Robinson, who rose from story of the grassroots movement that humble origins to break baseball’s color proclaimed “the personal is political,” barrier. Born in 1919 to tenant farmers while also spotlighting the women who in rural Georgia and raised in Pasadena, dared to voice their anger, She’s Beautiful CA, Robinson confronted institutional When She’s Angry features commentary racism long before he integrated Major from activists and writers including League Baseball. In 1949, Robinson Chude Pam Allen, Judith Arcana, Nona began to speak out, challenging oppos- Willis Aronowitz, and Fran Beal. Deliv- ing players, arguing with umpires, and ering a fine tribute to past bravery and talking to the press, while also playing determination, the film also serves as a some of the best baseball of his career, and winning that year’s National League warning and urgent rallying cry to the MVP award. After his sports career was next wave of those determined to ensure over, Robinson continued to use his equal rights for all. fame to further the Civil Rights move- ment, voicing his views through a widely “Bicycle Thieves” and “The read newspaper column in the New York Post, raising money for the NAACP Manchurian Candidate” on and Martin Luther King Jr.’s Southern Criterion Collection’s March Christian Leadership Conference, and campaigning vigorously for candidates Slate he believed would work to improve the This March, Criterion presents an in- lives of African Americans. The docu- teresting variety of world cinema titles. mentary features extensive interviews Slated for March 8 is late French New with Robinson’s widow, Rachel, and Wave director Jacques Rivette’s debut, their surviving children, Sharon and 1961’s Paris Belongs to Us (DVD: $29.95, David; President Barack Obama and Blu-ray: $39.95), which follows a young First Lady Michelle Obama; former literature student (Betty Schneider) and Dodgers teammates Don Newcombe, a loose-knit group of twentysomethings Carl Erskine, and Ralph Branca; writers in Paris. Coming March 15 is John Frank- Worlds Together Series Howard Bryant and Gerald Early; and enheimer’s iconic 1962 Cold War para- celebrities Harry Belafonte, Tom Brokaw, noia thriller The Manchurian Candidate All new Worlds Together Cuba, and Carly Simon. Featuring Oscar-win- (DVD: 2 discs, $29.95; Blu-ray: $39.95), Ecuador and Colombia in Spanish ner Jamie Foxx as the voice of Jackie a razor-sharp adaptation of the novel by and English celebrate culture, history, Robinson, the film is narrated by Keith Richard Condon that stars Frank Sinatra, food, geography and people. Closed- David and features original music by Laurence Harvey, and Angela Lansbury. captioned. Free Teacher’s Guide. 25 Wynton Marsalis. Arriving March 22 is Edward Yang’s inti- min. Ages 10+. $29.95 each mate 1991 Taiwanese epic A Brighter Sum- V3212 Colombia 978-1-60480-156-9 Music Box Films Doc “She’s mer Day (DVD: 3 discs, $29.95; Blu-ray: 2 V3213 Cuba 978-1-60480-157-6 discs, $39.95), based on the true story of a V3214 Ecuador 978-1-60480-158-3 Beautiful When She’s Angry” young teenager’s (Chen Chang) fall from V3215 Tibet 978-1-60480-108-8 innocence into juvenile delinquency. V3202 Ethiopia 978-1-60480-106-4 Arriving March 1 for Women’s Slated for March 29 is Les Blank’s ex- V3203 East Africa 978-1-60480-107-1 History Month V3201 W. Africa 978-1-60480-105-7 hilarating 1974 free-form documentary In celebration of Women’s History A Poem Is a Naked Person (DVD: $29.95, Education Fever in Korea Month, Music Box Films will release Blu-ray: $39.95), showcasing the life V1912 978-1-604-80163-7 $149 PPR She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry (DVD: and career of legendary Rock and Roll $29.95) on March 1. Offering an in- Hall of Famer Leon Russell. Also bowing Preview and sightful, rousing, and often humorous March 29 is the Blu-ray debut of Italian purchase online at account of the birth and rise of the director Vittorio De Sica’s 1948 landmark women’s liberation movement in the film Bicycle Thieves (Blu-ray: $39.95), an WorldCultureMedia.com late 1960s up through its contemporary Oscar-winning Italian neorealist classic [email protected] manifestations in the new millennium, set in poverty-stricken postwar Rome director Mary Dore’s film combines that centers on a man searching for his rarely-seen archival footage, a classic stolen bicycle.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 4 MARCH/APRIL 2016

Books Into Movies

The following films based on books Deadly Sins: My Pursuit are slated to open during March and of Lance Armstrong. Di- April. Movie release dates are subject to rected by Stephen Frears, change. the film stars Guillaume Canet, Dustin Hoffman, Coming in March Chris O’Dowd as Walsh, and Ben Foster as Arm- Whiskey Tango Fox- strong. trot (Mar. 4) is based on journalist Kim Barker’s I Saw the Light (Mar. 2011 memoir The Taliban 25) is based on Colin Shuffle: Strange Days in Escott, George Merritt, Afghanistan and Pakistan. and William MacEwen’s Directed by Glenn Ficarra 1994 Hank Williams: The and John Requa, the dark Biography. Directed by war comedy stars Margot Marc Abraham, this trib- Robbie, Martin Freeman, and Tina Fey as ute stars Elizabeth Olsen, Barker. David Krumholtz, and Tom Hiddleston as Williams. The Young Messiah (Mar. 11) is based on Coming in April Anne Rice’s 2005 novel Christ the Lord: Out of The Jungle Book (Apr. Egypt. Directed by Cyrus 15) is adapted from the Nowrasteh, the biblical classic 1894 story collec- drama stars Sean Bean, tion by Rudyard Kipling. David Bradley, Isabelle Director Jon Favreau’s Adriani, and Adam animated remake of the Greaves-Neal as Jesus. 1967 Disney classic fea- tures voice work by Bill Miracles from Heav- Murray, Ben Kingsley, and Idris Elba. en (Mar. 16) is based on author Christy Beam’s A Hologram for the 2015 faith-based memoir King (Apr. 22) is adapted about her ill daughter. from Dave Eggers’s 2012 Directed by Patricia Rig- National Book Award fi- gen, the film stars Jenni- nalist novel. Directed by fer Garner, Kylie Rogers, Tom Tykwer, the dram- Martin Henderson, and edy stars Tom Hanks, Queen Latifah. Tom Skerritt, and Sarita Choudhury. The Divergent Series: Allegiant (Mar. 18) is Same Kind of Differ- based on the 2013 third ent As Me (Apr. 29) is novel in Veronica Roth’s based on the 2006 New dystopian sci-fi YA se- York Times nonfiction ries. Directed by Rob- bestseller by Ron Hall ert Schwentke, the sci-fi and Denver Moore with adventure sequel stars Lynn Vincent. Directed Shailene Woodley, Theo by Michael Carney, the James, and Octavia Spencer. drama stars Renée Zell- weger, Djimon Hounsou, and Jon Voight. The Little Prince (Mar. 18) is adapted from Looking Ahead French aristocrat Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s 1943 Slated for May is Alice novella. Directed by Through the Looking Mark Osborne, this stop- Glass, based on Lewis motion and computer- Carroll’s 1871 novel animated film features Through the Looking- the voices of Jeff Bridges, Glass, and What Alice Rachel McAdams, Benicio del Toro, and Found There. Director Ricky Gervais. Tim Burton’s sequel features returning stars The Program (Mar. 18) is based on Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, journalist David Walsh’s 2013 book Seven and Mia Wasikowska.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 6 MARCH/APRIL 2016

Mixed Media

Mixed Media features new release to seek revenge on Shax—the evil overlord April 17—April 23 information on upcoming video who destroyed his family—using an arsenal games and TV series on DVD/Blu-ray, of spells to fight off hordes of cult members, Assetto Corsa (505 Games, PS4/XOne: as well as notable older titles that are monsters, and demons. $59.99, Rated: E). This racing simulation re-priced or new to DVD/Blu-ray. game features over 100 hundred cars and Republique (GungHo, more than 20 tracks, emphasizing pure Video Games PS4: $24.99, Rated: M). physics realism to offer meticulously pre- In this third-person ac- cise car handling. Note: Entertainment Software Ratings tion game, the player is Board (ESRB) ratings for video games are: E Hope, a young woman April 24—April 30 (Everyone), E10+ (Everyone 10+), T (Teen), held captive inside Meta- M (Mature), and RP (Rating Pending). morphosis—a shadowy Mafia III (2K, PS4/XOne: $59.99, Rated: Some titles are not rated until just prior totalitarian state ruled by the omnipresent RP). In this third-person action game set to release date. Overseer—who embarks on a treacherous in 1968 in a reimagined New Orleans, and thrilling journey to freedom. players step into the shoes of Lincoln March 6—March 12 Clay, a Vietnam veteran set on escaping a March 27—April 2 criminal past. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD (Nintendo, WiiU: $59.99, Rated: T). MLB The Show 16 (Sony, PS3/PS4: Uncharted 4: A Thief’s In this remaster of the GameCube/Wii $39.99-$59.99, Rated: E). This year’s edition End (Sony, PS4: $59.99, third-person adventure-RPG, players lead of the long-running baseball simulation Rated: RP). In this highly- Link on a quest that will take him to the franchise offers gameplay improvements, anticipated third-person farthest corners of Hyrule and beyond to new game modes, and more personaliza- action-adventure game, restore light to the world. tion options. players resume the be- loved role of Nathan Tom Clancy’s The Nights of Azure (Koei Tecmo, PS4: Drake several years after Division (UbiSoft, PS4/ $59.99, Rated: RP). Set on an uncharted his last adventure, as the retired fortune XOne: $59.99, Rated: M). island floating in the North Sea, this third- hunter is forced back into the world of In this third-person ac- person action-RPG tells a tragic tale of two thieves in a globetrotting journey. tion game, players be- friends faced with impossible decisions that come a member of The will test their loyalty to their quest and to Division, an autonomous each other. TV on DVD/Blu-ray unit of tactical agents trained to operate independently as a dev- April 3—April 9 Available Now astating pandemic sweeps New York City. Quantum Break (Microsoft, XOne: Doctor Who: Series Nine, Part Two March 13—March 19 $59.99, Rated: M). From the creators of Max (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, $24.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, Payne and Alan Wake, this third-person $29.98). The Doctor (Peter Capaldi) and EA Sports UFC 2 (EA, action-adventure game finds players in the companion Clara (Jenna Coleman) deal PS4/XOne: $59.99, Rated: role of Jack Joyce, who is able to bend and with extreme challenges in this second T). This latest entry in shape time in order to outmaneuver and compilation from the 2015 ninth series of the mixed martial arts outwit the enemy. the cult sci-fi series. fighting series features improved character like- April 10—April 16 Fargo: Year Two (Fox, ness and animation, and DVD: 4 discs, $39.98; Blu- adds an all new knockout DiRT Rally (Codemasters, PS4/XOne: ray: 3 discs, $49.99). Set physics system as fighters are invited to step $59.99, Rated: E). This rally racing game in 1979, this 2015 second back into the Octagon. sends players hurtling along dangerous, season of the FX-aired undulating roads at breakneck speed, crime dramedy based on Samurai Warriors 4 Empires (Koei trying to balance every advantage they the popular 1996 Coen Tecmo, PS4: $49.99, Rated: T). In this can gain from their cars against that one brothers feature film stars alternative version of the events depicted crash that could irreparably harm their Kirsten Dunst, Patrick Wilson, Jean Smart, in Samurai Warriors 4, players combine stage time. and Ted Danson. third-person action with strategy as a member in the lower ranks of the army Dark Souls III (From Girls: The Complete Fourth Season who gradually rises to eventually rule the Software, PS4/XOne: (HBO, DVD: 2 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 entire land through conquest. $59.99, Rated: RP). This discs, $39.98). This 2015 fourth season of critically-acclaimed and the Lena Dunham-created dramedy series March 20—March 26 genre-defining third-per- features guest appearances by Jason Ritter son action-adventure se- and Zachary Quinto. Lichdom: Battlemage (Maximum, ries continues with this PS4/XOne: $49.99, Rated: M). In this first- highly-anticipated third Jesus of Nazareth: The Complete person fantasy action game, players step entry that will pit players against massive Miniseries (Shout! Factory, DVD: 2 discs, into the role of Dragon, a scorned mage out bosses in extremely demanding battles. $19.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $24.98). Director

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 8 MARCH/APRIL 2016

Franco Zeffirelli’s depiction of the life and The Bold Ones: The discs, $39.98). Kellita Smith, Keith Allan, times of Jesus Christ is portrayed in this New Doctors—The Com- and Anastasia Baranova star in this 2015 star-studded 1977 miniseries featuring plete Series (Shout! Facto- sophomore season of the post-apocalyptic Anne Bancroft, James Earl Jones, Laurence ry, DVD: 9 discs, $59.99). horror series aired on Syfy. Olivier, Christopher Plummer, and An- This 1969-73 addition thony Quinn. to the rotating format March 8 series is set at a cutting- The Leftovers: The Complete Second edge medical clinic and Community: The Complete Sixth Season (Warner, DVD: 3 discs, $39.98; stars E.G. Marshall, John Season (Sony, DVD: 2 discs, $45.99). Pre- Blu-ray: 2 discs, $44.98). A retired police Saxon, and David Hartman. miering on Yahoo! Screen after its NBC chief relocates his family in the wake of cancellation, this 2015 sixth and final the sudden disappearance of millions of Childhood’s End (Universal, DVD: 3 season of the community college comedy the world’s population in this 2015 sopho- discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $34.98). series features guest appearances by Seth more season starring Justin Theroux, Amy Powerful aliens bring their own particular Green, Steve Guttenberg, and Billy Zane. Brenneman, Christopher Eccleston, and brand of peace to Earth in this three-part Liv Tyler. Syfy-aired miniseries adaptation of the Manhattan: Season 1953 novel by Arthur C. Clarke, starring Two (Lionsgate, DVD: 3 The Lizzie Borden Mike Vogel, Daisy Betts, Charles Dance, discs, $34.98; Blu-ray: 2 Chronicles (Sony, DVD: and Colm Meaney. discs, $34.98). Set during 2 discs, $26.99). Set after the 1940s when the atom- the titular notorious axe Death in Paradise: Season Four (BBC, ic bomb was first created murderer’s 1893 acquittal, DVD: 2 discs, $34.98). Two new members in New Mexico, this 2015 this 2015 Lifetime-aired join the team to solve mysteries in a fic- second and final season of miniseries stars Christina tional island paradise in this 2015 fourth the WGN America drama Ricci, Clea DuVall, and season of the crime comedy series starring series stars John Benjamin Hickey, Olivia Cole Hauser. Kris Marshall, Joséphine Jobert, and Tobi Williams, and Daniel Stern. Bakare. Peaky Blinders: Series Two (BBC, DVD: Rookie Blue: The Final Season (En- 2 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $34.98). The Fall: Series 1 tertainment One, DVD: 3 discs, $39.98). Headed up by the vicious Tommy Shelby (Acorn, Blu-ray: 2 discs, The officers of 15 Division say goodbye (Cillian Murphy), the titular Birmingham $39.99). Aired in the U.S. in this 2015 sixth and final season of the gang continues to gain a hold in the un- on Netflix, this 2013 first Canadian police drama starring Missy derworld in this 2014 second series of the season of the BBC series Peregrym, Gregory Smith, Enuka Okuma, BBC Two-aired historical crime drama, following a British detec- and Charlotte Sullivan. also starring Helen McCrory, Sam Neill, tive (Gillian Anderson) and Tom Hardy. sent to Belfast to review The Spoils of Babylon (IFC, DVD: 2 a seemingly unsolvable murder is newly discs, $24.98). Will Ferrell, Tobey Maguire, Saints & Strangers (Sony, DVD: $26.99). available on high-definition Blu-ray. Also Kristen Wiig, Tim Robbins, Jessica Alba, Aired on the National Geographic Channel, newly available is The Fall: Series 2 (DVD and Michael Sheen star in this 2014 IFC- this 2015 two-part miniseries chronicling or Blu-ray: 2 discs, $39.99). aired period drama miniseries spoof. the arrival of the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving stars Ray Stevenson, Anna Scott and Bailey: Season Four (BBC, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Season Camp, Vincent Kartheiser, and Natascha DVD: 2 discs, $34.98). Stars Suranne Jones, One (Universal, DVD: 2 discs, $22.98). McElhone. Lesley Sharp, and Amelia Bullmore are The cheerful survivor (Ellie Kemper) of an back in this 2014 fourth season from the underground doomsday cult navigates life Togetherness: The Complete First ITV-aired detective drama. in New York City in this 2015 first season Season (HBO, DVD: 2 discs, $39.98; Blu- of the Netflix series, featuring guest ap- ray: 2 discs, $49.99). Two SoCal families Silk: Season Two (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, pearances by Jon Hamm, Martin Short, cohabitate in this 2015 first season of the $34.98). Martha Costello (Maxine Peake) and co-creator Tina Fey. HBO comedy series starring Mark Duplass, comes back to Shoe Lane Chambers after Melanie Lynskey, and Amanda Peet. earning her status as Queen’s Counsel in March 15 this 2012 sophomore season following March 1 the lives and careers of contemporary Cedar Cove: The Final Season (Hall- barristers. mark, DVD: 3 discs, $24.95). This 2015 third The Americans: The and final season of the Hallmark Channel’s Complete Third Sea- Strike Back: Final Season—Cinemax first original scripted series—based on son (Fox, DVD: 4 discs, Season Four (Warner, DVD: 3 discs, $29.98; novels by Debbie Macomber—stars Andie $39.99). Undercover mar- Blu-ray: 3 discs, $34.98). Based on the novel MacDowell as a judge. ried Russian spies Philip by former Special Air Service soldier Chris and Elizabeth (Matthew Ryan, this 2015 fifth and final season of the CHiPs: The Complete Fourth Season Rhys and Keri Russell) are globetrotting original Cinemax series stars (Warner, DVD: 5 discs, $29.98). SoCal concerned that their teen Philip Winchester, Sullivan Stapleton, and motorcycle police officers fight crime in daughter is being recruit- Robson Green. this 1980-81 fourth season of the light ed by the KGB in this 2015 third season of drama series starring Erik Estrada and the Cold War period drama series. Z Nation: Season 2 (Universal, DVD: 3 Larry Wilcox.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 10 MARCH/APRIL 2016

Game of Thrones: The more season of the fictionalized period plays an over-the-top version of himself in Complete Fifth Season drama stars Jamie Bell, Heather Lind, Seth this 2015 fourth season of the Showtime- (HBO, DVD: 5 discs, Numrich, and Angus Macfadyen. aired comedy series that finds the actor $59.99; Blu-ray: 4 discs, supplementing his career by working with $79.98). This highly-an- March 29 a British writing couple (Tamsin Greig and ticipated 2015 fifth sea- Stephen Mangan). son based on the best- Archer: The Complete selling fantasy series by Season 6 (Fox, DVD: 2 The Expanse: Season One (Universal, George R.R. Martin stars Peter Dinklage, discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 DVD: 3 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, Kit Harington, and Emilia Clarke. discs, $39.99). Super spy $49.98). Based on novels by James S. A. Sterling Archer (voiced by Corey, this 2015-16 first season of the Mayday (Acorn, DVD: 2 discs, $39.99). H. Jon Benjamin) is back sci-fi drama stars Thomas Jane, Steven Aired on BBC One, this five-part 2013 in this 2015 sixth season Strait, Paulo Costanzo, and Shohreh Agh- drama centering on an annual pagan of the FX-aired animated dashloo. parade stars Leila Mimmack, Peter Firth, action series that includes guest voices by Sophie Okonedo, and Aidan Gillen. Christian Slater, C.C.H. Pounder, Keith House of Lies: The David, and Carrie Brownstein. Fourth Season (Show- New Tricks: Season 12 (Acorn, DVD: 3 time, DVD: 2 discs, discs, $39.99). Tamzin Outhwaite, Denis Humans: Uncut U.K. Edition (Acorn, $29.98). Don Cheadle Lawson, Nicholas Lyndhurst, and Larry DVD: 3 discs, $39.99; Blu-ray: 2 discs, and Kristen Bell star in Lamb star in this 2015 12th and final $39.99). Aired stateside on AMC, this this 2015 fourth season season of the BBC procedural dramedy 2015 first season of the British-American of the Showtime series following former police officers who tackle sci-fi series following the impact of robot revolving around a das- cold cases. servants on society stars Gemma Chan, tardly management consulting firm. Tom Goodman-Hill, Pixie Davies, and March 22 Sope Dirisu. NYPD Blue: Season 09 (Shout! Factory, DVD: 5 discs, $34.99). The attacks of 9/11 Lost Girl—The Final Chapters: Seasons Life Story (BBC, DVD: come into play in this 2001-02 ninth Five & Six (Funimation, DVD: 6 discs, 2 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: 2 season of the crime drama series, which $29.98; Blu-ray: 4 discs, $34.98). Anna discs, $49.98). Sir David adds Mark-Paul Gosselaar to the cast as Silk stars as the titular bisexual succubus Attenborough narrates the partner of hardboiled Detective Andy in this compilation from the 2014-15 final this 2014 six-part natural Sipowicz (Dennis Franz). seasons of the Canadian supernatural history series focusing on drama that also stars Kris Holden-Ried various animals at differ- A Place to Call Home: Season 3 (Acorn, and Ksenia Solo. ent stages of life. DVD: 3 discs, $59.99). Set in Australia after WWII, this 2015 third season follows nurse Maude: The Complete Fourth Season Mystery Science Theatre 3000: Sarah Adams (Martan Dusseldorp), who (Shout! Factory, DVD: 3 discs, $26.99). XXXV (Shout! Factory, DVD: 4 discs, becomes involved with an affluent fam- Outspoken feminist Maude (Bea Arthur) $59.99). This latest compilation featur- ily (including stars Noni Hazlehurst and runs for state senate in this 1975-76 fourth ing film-blasting hosts Joel Hodgson and Brett Climo). season of the Norman Lear sitcom, featur- Mike Nelson and their robot friends Tom ing guest appearances by Bernadette Peters, Servo and Crow includes three films by April 12 Teri Garr, and Lyle Waggoner. Roger Corman. Finding Your Roots: Season 3 (PBS, Midwinter of the Spirit (Acorn, DVD: April 5 DVD: 3 discs, $39.99). Hosted by Harvard $34.99). Based on the novel by Phil Rick- scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr., this 2016 man, this 2015 three-episode ITV series Banshee: The Complete Third Season third season of the PBS-aired genealogical following an exorcist country vicar (Anna (HBO, DVD: 4 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: 4 series explores the family trees of notables Maxwell Martin) on a supernatural murder discs, $49.99). Aired on Cinemax, this 2015 including Donna Brazile, Bill O’Reilly, investigation also features David Threlfall third season continues to follow an ex- Shonda Rhimes, Norman Lear, Sandra and Nicholas Pinnock. convict turned sheriff (Antony Starr) and Cisneros, and Frank Gehry. his former accomplice (Ivana Milicevic) as The Royals: Season they navigate crime-lord dramas within Heroes Reborn: Event Two (Lionsgate, DVD: 3 the titular fictional Amish small town. Series (Universal, DVD: 4 discs, $29.98). The arro- discs, $44.98; Blu-ray: 3 gant Cyrus (Jake Maskall) Casual: Season One (Lionsgate, DVD: discs, $49.98). This 2015- takes the throne after the 2 discs, $29.98). A divorcee and her teen 16 miniseries continua- king’s death in this 2015- daughter move in with the woman’s bach- tion of the earlier 2006-10 16 E! original drama series elor brother in this 2015 debut season of sci-fi series about humans starring Elizabeth Hurley, the Hulu comedy series starring Michaela with superpowers stars William Moseley, and Alexandra Park. Watkins, Tara Lynne Barr, and Tommy Jack Coleman, Zachary Levi, and Kiki Dewey. Sukezane. TURN: Washington’s Spies—The Com- plete Second Season (Anchor Bay, DVD: 3 Episodes: The Fourth Season (Show- Prisoners’ Wives: Complete Collection discs, $49.98). Set in 1777, this 2015 sopho- time, DVD: 2 discs, $29.98). Matt LeBlanc (Acorn, DVD: 4 discs, $59.99). Showcasing

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 12 MARCH/APRIL 2016

the lives of women left behind by incarcer- Silicon Valley: The Complete Second HHH1/2) explores America’s history of ated men, this 2012-13 BBC drama stars Season (HBO, DVD: 2 discs, $26.95; Blu-ray: racial hatred through the lens of Tulsa, Emma Rigby, Iain Glen, Polly Walker, and 2 discs, $34.98). This 2015 sophomore season OK, where hates crimes from 1921 and Pippa Haywood. of the HBO-aired comedy series from creator 2012 continue to have an impact on the Mike Judge follows a group of men with a Bay local community. Sisters: Season Four (Shout! Factory, Area startup company. DVD: 6 discs, $39.95). Illinois siblings How to Eat Your Watermelon in (Swoosie Kurtz, Sela Ward, Patricia Ka- Veep: The Complete White Company (And Enjoy It) (Music lember, and Julianne Phillips) experience Fourth Season (HBO, DVD: Box, DVD: $19.95). Director Joe Angio’s highs and lows in the 1993-94 fourth 2 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 lively and provocatively titled 2006 season of this dramedy series that also discs, $39.98). Julia Louis- documentary (VL-9/07 HHH) showcases features George Clooney as a detective Dreyfus stars in her Emmy- the life and career of keystone indie love interest. winning role as the U.S. blaxploitation filmmaker Melvin Van Vice President in this 2015 Peebles. New bonus features include an Welcome to Sweden: Season 2 (En- fourth season of the HBO interview with Van Peebles. tertainment One, DVD: 2 discs, $34.98). political satire series that also features Anna This 2015 second and final season of the Chlumsky, Tony Hale, Tmothy Simons, and The Look of Si- short-lived sitcom about a NYC accoun- Reid Scott. lence (Drafthouse, tant (Greg Poehler) who adjusts to life in DVD: $24.99, Blu-ray: his girlfriend’s home in Sweden features April 26 $29.95). Filmmaker guest appearances by Neve Campbell, Jack Joshua Oppenheimer’s Black, and Paul Simon. 19-2: Season 1 (Acorn, DVD: 3 discs, Oscar-nominated 2015 $39.99). The officers of the Montreal Police companion documen- April 19 Service try to balance their professional and tary (VL-7/15 HHH) to personal lives in this 2014 debut season of the his Oscar-nominated 2012 filmThe Act And Then There Were None (Acorn, English-language version of the Canadian of Killing centers on optician Adi Rukun, DVD: $34.99, Blu-ray: $34.99). Based on drama series starring Jared Keeso, Adrian who confronts the men who killed his Agatha Christie’s 1939 classic mystery Holmes, and Benz Antoine. brother during the anti-Communist novel, this three-part 2015 BBC One purge in Indonesia in 1965. Bonus fea- adaptation stars Douglas Booth, Miranda The Doctor Blake Mysteries: Season One tures include audio commentary with Richardson, Charles Dance, and Sam (BBC, DVD: 3 discs, $39.99). This 2013 first Oppenheimer and executive producer Neill. season of the Australian series following the Errol Morris, a Q&A with executive titular chief medical officer’s hometown re- producer Werner Herzog, and footage Dominion Creek turn after three decades stars Craig McLach- from the Indonesian premiere. (Acorn, DVD: 2 discs, lan, Nadine Gardner, and Joel Tobeck. $39.99). Aired as An Klon- Paniolo O Hawai’i: Cowboys of the dike on TG4, this Irish Royal Pains: Season Seven (Universal, Far West (Dreamscape, DVD: $29.99 series—seen on Netflix DVD: 2 discs, $26.98). Hamptons resort [$199.99 w/PPR], web: dreamscapeab. stateside—follows the doctor Hank Lawson (Mark Feuerstein) looks com). Narrated by Willie Nelson, this three Connolly brothers for love in this 2015 seventh season of the 1997 documentary explores the his- (Dara Devaney, Owen USA Network medical dramedy, which also tory of Hawaii’s Paniolo cowboys, who McDonnell, and Seán T. Ó Meallaigh) as features Paulo Costanzo, Reshma Shetty, and learned from the great vaqueros of early they settle in the Canadian Yukon during Henry Winkler. California. Also newly available at the the gold rush. same price are two other documentaries Looking Ahead on Hawaii: The Hawaiians: Reflecting Haven: The Final Season (Entertain- Spirit and Waikiki: In the Wake of ment One, DVD: 3 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: Coming in May is the Dreams. 3 discs, $49.98). The titular small Maine first season ofLou Grant, town is cut off by a mysterious fog bank sophomore season of The Touch the Wall in this 2014-15 fifth and final season of Brokenwood Mysteries, (Touch the Wall, DVD: the supernatural series based on Stephen the fourth seasons of Ma- $22, Blu-ray: $25; Blu- King’s The Colorado Kid, starring Emily jor Crimes and Mr. Self- ray/DVD Combo: $75 Rose and Lucas Bryant. ridge, the fifth season of w/PPR: high schools & Newhart, the ninth season public libraries; $350 w/ Pretty Little Liars: of The Facts of Life, the 22nd season of Top PPR: colleges & universi- The Complete Sixth Gear, the miniseries The Last Panthers, and ties, web: touchthewall. Season (Warner, DVD: the complete series of Cop Rock. com). Featuring striking 5 discs, $49.99). Five underwater photography, lighthearted friends are trapped by a animation, and exciting swim meet foot- demented captor in this Re-priced or New to DVD/Blu-ray age, filmmakers Christo Brock and Grant 2015-16 sixth season of A. Barbeito’s 2015 documentary (VL-1/16 the ABC Family series Hate Crimes in the Heartland (Virgil, HHH1/2) follows two competitive swim- starring Troian Bellisario, Ashley Benson, DVD: $19.99), Directed by Rachel Lyon, mers in the run-up to the 2012 Summer Tyler Blackburn, and Lucy Hale. this timely 2015 documentary (VL-7/15 Olympics.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 14 MARCH/APRIL 2016 VL_Ad_0316_VisionVideo 1/29/16 12:07 PM Page 1

Regrets, Reality, Restoration Quakers Cody High: Hear the heartfelt stories of people who Led by what they refer to as their “inner A Life Remodeled Project have experienced profound regret over their light,” members of the Society of Friends Cody High focuses on the efforts of Detroit’s actions. Drug addiction and alcohol abuse, (Quakers) played pivotal roles in some of the impoverished Cody Rouge community to abandoning one’s faith, poor ethical choices, most transformative events of the last four remove blight and create a safe environment terminal accidents—these are the stories of centuries. Whether it be forging relations for students at the local schools, including the people you will meet in this program. with Native Americans, the abolition of the hundreds of students who attend Cody As distraught as these individuals had slavery, World War II, or the Civil Rights High School. Residents and volunteers, in become, see what—even in their most Movement, Quakers resolutely followed partnership with Life Remodeled, remodeled tormented moments—brought forgiveness conscience even when faced with fierce three schools and 25 homes and tore down and restoration to their anguished pasts. opposition. This documentary introduces 254 vacant houses, bringing beauty back to Four-part documentary, 63 minutes. you to untold stories of Friends who 303 blocks of Detroit. Documentary, profoundly influenced the course of #501678D, $14.99, UPC 7 27985 01678 8 78 minutes. American history. Documentary, 90 minutes. #501675D, $14.99, UPC 7 27985 01675 7 #501639D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01639 9

The Story of the Twelve The Stranger The Apostle Collection Apostles (rerelease) The Stranger is a 40-minute documentary This set includes four DVDs on the Apostles in They started out as average, unexceptional film produced by Emmy-award winning an attractive slipcase. Included are: men of their time: fishermen, farmers, local producer Linda Midgett. It profiles three The Story of the Twelve Apostles (at far left). magistrates. But their dedication to a immigrant stories and includes interviews A.D.: six-hour drama that recreates the prophetic Jewish preacher in the backwaters with local and national leaders. By turbulent years of the Early Church. of the Roman Empire transformed them into highlighting compelling stories of revolutionaries and, in the process, changed immigrants and addressing some common Paul the Emissary: 54-minute drama on the the world itself in ways that would reverberate economic and political misconceptions, The life of the greatest missionary in the history of across time for two thousand years. Here is the Stranger seeks to mobilize us to respond to Christianity. immigrants and to immigration policy in inspiring, astonishing story of the little-known Peter and Paul: 194-minute drama starring ways that are consistent with moral men who became The Twelve Apostles. Anthony Hopkins and Robert Foxworth. Documentary, 100 minutes. principles. Documentary, 40 minutes. #501362D, $39.99, UPC 7 27985 01362 6 #4656D, $14.99, UPC 7 27985 00533 1 #501679D, $14.99, UPC 7 27985 01679 5

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(voiced by Jesse McCartney), and studious Assassin, a reimagining of This section features reviews of current and Simon (voiced by Matthew Gray Gubler) the martial arts drama as a classic studio, independent, and foreign feature are worried that their beloved surrogate vision of stillness, tension, dad/manager, Dave Seville (Jason Lee), has and painterly beauty. Asian films. Each review includes pricing information, become overly enamored with his ER doctor superstar Shu Qi plays Nie as well as running time, rating, subtitling infor- girlfriend, Samantha (Kimberly Williams- Yinniang, kidnapped as a mation, and street dates for yet-to-be-released Paisley). Terrified by the idea that Dave will child and trained by a cold- titles. Most titles reviewed here are widely abandon them, the furry friends reluctantly blooded nun to become an available through most distributors. team up with Samantha’s loathsome teenage assassin for the Emperor, while Chen Chang son, Miles (Josh Green), to fly from Los An- costars as Tian Ji’an, Nie’s target. Tian also geles to Miami, where they believe that Dave happens to be her cousin, as well as the man HHHH= Excellent is about to propose. Problem is: en route, one to whom she was once betrothed. Needless HHH= Good of the chipmunks accidentally sets free all to say, all of this carries emotional complica- of the animals in the cargo hold. Obviously, tions, which Nie hides behind her expression- HH= Fair the disruption of this airborne menagerie less facial mask but betrays in her actions. H irks the federal air marshal, vengeful Agent Hou doesn’t shoot the martial arts scenes in = Poor Suggs (Tony Hale), who promptly threatens a conventional manner: the action arrives in them with prison and puts them on the No pulses—sudden bursts of movement—while Fly List. As directed by Walt Becker, this is the battle scenes are brief, with images of a tediously silly franchise film, predictably individuals racing through tall grass or Current Films filled with slapstick, along with the requisite running through the underbrush given as bathroom humor. But there is one amusing much weight as the clash of swordsmen (and All About E HH scene for film buffs: treated disdainfully in swordswomen). Viewers looking for a classic Wolfe, 93 min., not rated, First Class by subversive, idiosyncratic direc- martial arts spectacle in the vein of Crouching DVD: $24.95 tor John Waters, snippy Alvin retorts, “Don’t Tiger, Hidden Dragon or Ip Man may find this In this loopy dramedy, judge me! I saw Pink Flamingos!” Optional, at frustrating, but many will appreciate this the titular “E” (Mandahla best. (S. Granger) unique cinematic experience. Highly recom- Rose) is a gifted clarinet- mended. (S. Axmaker) ist who gave up a possible Amorous H1/2 musical career—as well as Film Movement, 82 min., not Assassination HH1/2 abandoning her family and one true love, rated, DVD: $24.95 Well Go USA, 139 min., in Trish (Julia Billington)—to become a celeb- In Joanna Coates’s debut Korean w/English subtitles, not rity DJ in a hot British nightclub owned by feature, four young people rated, DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 the creepy, thuggish Johnny Rock (Simon who are dissatisfied with Bolton). The latter runs E’s life with an iron their ordinary lives go off South Korea has become fist, and when her sweet, gay manager, Matt to one member’s isolated the center for slick action (Brett Rogers), books E into a competing club, inherited estate to fashion what they conceive Asian cinema. Assassination, Johnny crushes that plan with veiled threats. as a mini-utopia. The quartet gambol about which is set during the Japanese occupation So it’s no wonder that after E accidentally in the grass and take turns preparing skits to of Korea in the early 1930s, is an entertaining ends up with a bag of Johnny’s cash receipts entertain each other during the evenings. period piece that is more impressive for its from her stints at his venue, she feels no guilt They celebrate rituals, such as a somber mock action than its story. The film opens with a about keeping the money. Johnny, in a lethal funeral that is apparently designed to repre- Korean government leader in exile (Lee Jung- mood, thinks otherwise, forcing E and Matt sent the death of their rejected, conventional jae) spearheading a jailbreak to free a female to go on the run, and they end up on Trish’s histories. They also engage in sex, of course, army sniper sharpshooter (Jun Ji-hyun), who farm. Here, relationship dramas unfold while and while two are male and two female, the is subsequently sent to kill a high-ranking Johnny continues to follow E’s trail. Writer- permutations are various. The problem with Japanese officer. A pair of mercenary crimi- director Louise Wadley has a deft hand with the film (originally titled Hide and Seek) is that nals are tasked with protecting her, and then the occasional action sequence (especially a the four characters—Max (Josh O’Connor), another pair of hitmen are dispatched to stop climactic scene involving a plane), and the Charlotte (Hannah Arterton), Jack (Daniel the mission. Naturally, there’s a traitor here, performances are solid (particularly by Bolton Metz), and Leah (Rea Mole)—are simply not just one of many turnabouts in a film that and Rogers), but this oddball film—built on a very interesting. Amorous briefly comes to is full of double-crosses, double agents, and lightweight, silly premise—takes itself a bit life twice: when a boyfriend of one of the a somewhat confusing timeline that jumps too seriously, and strains credulity. Optional. girls unexpectedly shows up, only to be around with flashbacks and flashforwards. (T. Keogh) treated as an unwanted outsider, and when Serving up busy battles (including a brutal one of the couples pretends to have fallen in massacre) and handsome set-pieces, director Alvin and the love in order to upset the others. Otherwise, Choi Dong-hoon displays more technical Chipmunks: The Road watching these over-privileged, immature expertise than passion or storytelling flair. Chip HH twentysomethings indulge in their mean- Still, this is often entertaining and was one Fox, 90 min., PG, DVD: dering search for fulfillment is a chore and a of South Korea’s top-grossing films for 2015. $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: bore (even with the graphic sexuality). Not A strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) $39.99, Mar. 15 recommended. (F. Swietek) Combining live-action The Ballad of the Weeping Spring with computer-animated The Assassin HHH1/2 HHH characters, this is the fourth installment in Well Go USA, 106 min., in Mandarin w/English SISU, 105 min., in Hebrew w/English subtitles, not the chirpy chipmunk series that began in subtitles, not rated, DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 rated, DVD: $24.95 2007. As the plot unfolds, mischievous Alvin Chinese filmmaker Hou Hsiou-Hsien won Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai and its (voiced by Justin Long), chubby Theodore the Best Director Award at Cannes for The Hollywood remake The Magnificent Seven are

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UPCOMING SUBSCRIPTION FILMS FEBRUARY: GLASSLAND 2016 U.S. THEATRICAL RELEASE John (Jack Reynor) ekes out a meager existence as a taxi driver. After fi nding his mother (Toni Collette) unconscious from another night of drinking, John offers his services to a petty criminal in order to pay for her rehab. Irish, Family Dynamics, Substance Abuse ADVANCE INDIVIDUAL PURCHASE PRICE: DVD only: $150 / PPR: $350 DRL: $499 / PPR + DRL: $599 UPC: 857692005598

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FM2_Mar/Apr_VidLIBr.indd 1 2/10/16 4:30 PM the obvious inspirations having an affair with Morten, and an old Lysistrata, a tough, sexually unapologetic for Benny Toraty’s Israeli friend of Morten’s who is a socially isolated woman who—after seeing a child killed in award-winner, only the tone Peeping Tom. Vogt skillfully weaves all of a drive-by shooting—organizes the women here is genial—with Mizrahi this together into a growing mystery about of gang members on both sides of the war to musical instruments replac- different types of “seeing” in this challenging stage a sex strike until they end the killing. ing Japanese swords or Wild film, which does contain brief explicit images Nick Cannon costars as rapper and gang West guns. The story begins of downloaded pornographic content. Highly leader Chi-Raq, who glorifies the violence with young Avram (Arnon recommended for more adventurous collec- in his music. Lee returns to the stylistic ex- Zadok) approaching Jossef (Uri Gavriel), a tions. (T. Keogh) perimentation and cinematic confrontation reclusive ex-con, with a plea that he take up of his earlier films, with jarring shifts in tone his long-untouched tar—a Middle Eastern Carol HHH and temperament as he stridently proclaims lute—and gather other musicians to come Anchor Bay, 118 min., R, DVD: the film’s message throughout—at times to the bedside of his dying father in order $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.99, Mar. like a revival meeting seeking a callback, at to perform the titular piece, which the two 15 others presenting a history lesson in verse. older men composed many years earlier but Todd Haynes’s tasteful yet The anti-violence message here is serious never played. Jossef agrees, and the film fol- sometimes tedious adapta- even if the vehicle is colorful and satirical, lows him and Avram as they assemble a band. tion of Patricia Highsmith’s playing out as a musical production in one Some are old friends of Jossef’s, but others are 1952 novel, The Price of Salt scene and a literal battle of the sexes in newcomers—a talented young singer, a blind (published under the pseudonym Claire Mor- another. The fine cast includes Angela Bas- flautist—and the would-be recruiters must use gan because Highsmith’s mother disapproved sett as an elder offering advice to Lysistrata, considerable persuasion (and in some cases a of her daughter’s romantic preference for Wesley Snipes as a one-eyed rival gang leader bit of chicanery) to secure involvement when women) stars Oscar nominee Cate Blanchett named Cyclops, Jennifer Hudson as a mother an angry wife or a local gang boss tries to get as Carol Aird, a wealthy about-to-be-divorcee mourning a dead child, John Cusack as an in the way. The enticements of the bars that who meets salesgirl Therese Belivet (Oscar activist priest calling out “politicians in the they visit to search for talent can also prove nominee Rooney Mara) while shopping for a pocket of the NRA,” and Samuel L. Jackson to be a serious obstacle. Naturally, all the Christmas gift for her young daughter. Carol as the chorus and commentator. Provocative, effort turns out to be worth it. The Ballad of leaves her expensive leather gloves on the sexy, and challenging, this is recommended. the Weeping Spring succeeds as a good-natured counter, and after Therese mails them back, (S. Axmaker) homage to Kurosawa and John Sturges, but is Carol invites her to visit her elegant New Jer- also a lively tribute to the Mizrahi genre of sey home. They eye each other longingly, but The Clearstream Affair music, which originated in the Jewish com- this is the 1950s, so they maintain a modest HH1/2 munities in Arab and Persian lands to the demeanor. Impulsively, Carol asks aspiring First Run, 102 min., in French east of Israel and continues to be played by photographer Therese to accompany her on w/English subtitles, not rated, immigrants. Recommended. (F. Swietek) a cross-country trip. Clad in a mink coat, DVD: $24.95 glamorous, gold-haired Carol is exquisite, In Vincent Garenq’s fact- Blind HHH1/2 while insipid, indecisive Therese is simply based thriller, the career KimStim, 96 min., in infatuated. Eventually, the pair acknowledge and happy home life of a Norwegian w/English subtitles, their physical attraction. Unfortunately, they French investigative journalist are nearly not rated, DVD: $29.99 exhibit neither sexual chemistry nor emo- destroyed by his obsession to uncover the Haunting and enigmatic, tional rapport—no playfulness, no humor, truth about international financial malfea- Blind is a blur of reality and only angst and guilt. Indeed, languid Carol sance that reaches into the upper echelons fantasy revolving around a seems to relate far better to her ex-lover (Sarah of government. Gilles Lellouche stars as woman who recently lost Paulson), who remains her best friend/con- Denis Robert, a reporter whose stories her eyesight and now refuses to leave her fidante, coming to her aid when the going about political corruption lead him to a apartment. In this debut feature by Norwe- gets rough. Haynes’s slow-paced, fetishistic, Luxembourg-based bank called Clearstream, gian director Eskil Vogt, Ingrid (Ellen Dorrit formalized direction is stylishly restrained, which he learns has prospered from setting Pettersen), a retired schoolteacher, spends her making for rather tepid melodrama. Curi- up secret accounts that allow customers to days sitting alone by a window, seemingly ously, the most sensitive and affecting scene shield themselves from taxation and laun- awaiting the return from work of her archi- is not between the two women, but rather der ill-gotten profits—sometimes using the tect husband, Morten (Henrik Rafaelsen). when Carol finally confronts her bitter, be- proceeds in political campaigns. Simultane- The viewer gets glimpses of Ingrid’s restless wildered husband (Kyle Chandler)—begging ously, a magistrate (Charles Berling) charged imagination during scenes in which Morten him to put their daughter’s welfare above with looking into kickbacks in the French appears to have slipped into their home his vindictiveness in their ongoing custody arms industry also discovers evidence of unnoticed and is clandestinely watching battle. Still, given the Oscar attention, this is Clearstream’s involvement. Eventually, the her—actions that prove to be projections of recommended. (S. Granger) two men join forces, but their efforts are Ingrid’s own strange blend of paranoia and undercut by an iffy informant, and Robert delight. Other clues surface that Ingrid has Chi-Raq HHH finds himself the target of libel lawsuits become a combined voyeur and provocateur Lionsgate, 127 min., R, DVD: brought by Clearstream. Garenq is obvi- in her mind’s eye, taking on a storyteller role $19.98, Blu-ray: $24.99 ously committed to an accurate telling of that gives her an illusory sense of God-like Spike Lee adapts Aris- this story, which unfortunately brings in so authority over a fictional world. None of this tophanes’s ancient Greek many characters and narrative threads that is apparent at first, but eventually certain play Lysistrata in this pas- it is difficult to keep them straight. Still, not events, such as the sudden switching of a sionate, provocative, and least because it reveals a little-known facet child’s gender, suggests that much of what is unconventional film that of the global financial chicanery that caused being seen is subject to Ingrid’s whims. That transposes the story to Chicago’s South Side, the economic crisis of 2008, this should also goes for the film’s other major characters, which earned the name Chi-Raq for its high be considered a strong optional purchase. including a divorced mom who might be murder rate. Teyonah Parris takes the role of (F. Swietek)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 18 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Award-Winning Cinema Since 2002

ANTONIA’S LINE ACADEMY AWARD® WINNER Best Foreign Language Film 1996 In the wake of World War II, strong-willed Antonia returns to her hometown with her daughter and establishes a new life among the tight-knit, eccentric community. Classics, Scandinavian, LGBT, Women Directors DVD only: $24.95 / PPR: $200 DRL: $499 / PPR + DRL: $599 UPC: 857692005802 Also Available on Blu-ray™

THEORY OF OBSCURITY 2016 U.S. Theatricalcal Release Delve into the enigmatic story of The Residents, the renegade music collective whose career has spanned fi ve decades yet continues to be shrouded in mystery. Documentary, Music, Art DVD only: $24.95 / PPR: $200 DRL: $499 / PPR + DRL: $599 UPC: 857692005574 Also Available on Blu-ray™

FINDING GASTON Follow Gaston Acurio on a journey into the world of Peruvian cuisine, revealing the stories and inspiration behind his mission to change his country through food. Documentary, Food, Latin American, Women Directors DVD only: $24.95 / PPR: $200 DRL: $499 / PPR + DRL: $599 UPC: 857692005451

NIGHTS WITH THEODORE A romantic connection blossoms between two young Parisians during a succession of dreamlike nighttime visits to a singular, beguiling hillside park. French, Romance DVD only: $24.95 / PPR: $200 DRL: $499 / PPR + DRL: $599 UPC: 857692005505

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FM1_Mar/Apr_VidLIBr.indd 1 2/10/16 4:39 PM Creed HHH1/2 the way. Akin wrote the script with Mardik features a career-making performance by Warner, 133 min., PG-13, Martin, an Iraqi-born American of Armenian Bel Powley as Minnie, a precocious, articu- DVD: $28.98, Blu-ray/DVD descent who co-wrote Mean Streets and Rag- late, artistically-inclined teen in 1970s San Combo: $35.99, Mar. 1 ing Bull with Martin Scorsese. Powerful and Francisco, whose mother Charlotte (Kristen Writer-director Ryan devastating, The Cut is a richly realized film Wiig) is very much a child of the time, Coogler not only revives with complicated characters and beautiful embracing a freewheeling lifestyle rife with Rocky nostalgia here but desolate landscapes shot on location in drugs and booze that leaves little time for also introduces a new char- Europe, Africa, Cuba, and North America bringing up her daughters. The only other acter: Adonis “Donnie” Johnson (Michael (Alberta substitutes for the United States). regular adult presence is Charlotte’s current B. Jordan), son of legendary boxing cham- Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) boyfriend, Monroe (Alexander Skarsgård), pion Apollo Creed. Born out of wedlock to a a handsome laidback guy whose bemused mother who died, Donnie is shuffled through Deathgasm HH mellowness offers an oasis of stability in the foster care and juvenile detention until be- Dark Sky, 86 min., not rated, fraught household. Minnie and Monroe’s ing adopted as an adolescent by Mary Anne DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 eventual relationship is presented in gritty, Creed (Phylicia Rashad), who knows that You kind of know go- realistic terms without being sensational, Donnie is her late husband’s illegitimate son. ing in that a movie titled treating intimate sequences with sensitivity Raised and educated in L.A.’s posh Baldwin Deathgasm is unlikely to and animation that is delivered in a semi- Hills, Donnie lands a cushy corporate job but be deeply cerebral—unless psychedelic style derived from Minnie’s own spends weekends prizefighting in Tijuana, we’re talking about heads artistic efforts. The result is a cautionary tale eventually tracking down his father’s fabled rolling, which they do in this New Zealand with bite—a provocative, edgy portrayal of nemesis/friend, Rocky Balboa (Oscar nomi- gorefest that adds heavy metal music and ju- teen sexuality that is often hard to watch nee Sylvester Stallone) in Philadelphia. Rocky venile humor to a mix that aims for a campy but even harder to forget. Recommended. is reluctant to help at first but soon relents, midnight movie vibe it never quite achieves. (F. Swietek) patiently teaching and training Donnie. Don- The plot centers on goth teen Brodie (Milo nie is determined to use his own name, but Cawthorne), who is shipped off to live with The Dinner HHH that turns off ambitious promoters. “Every his ultraconservative aunt (Jodie Rimmer) Film Movement, 92 min., in move that I make, every punch that I throw, and uncle (Colin Moy) and their bullying Italian w/English subtitles, not everybody’s gonna compare me to him,” he jock son (Nick Hoskins-Smith) after Brodie’s rated, DVD: $24.95 admits. Meanwhile, Donnie hooks up with mother goes bonkers. Fortunately, Brodie Based on the bestselling Bianca (Tessa Thompson), a singer/songwrit- meets hip guy Zakk (James Blake), who joins 2009 novel by Dutch writer er, as the plot shuttles toward a major match Brodie’s metalhead band. When the pair Herman Koch, Ivano De with Britain’s cocky Ricky Conlan (ABA break into a derelict house, they find crazy Matteo’s foreboding domes- former heavyweight champion Tony Bellew). Daggers (Stephen Ure), once the lead singer tic drama centers on two upscale families What stands out here are the skillfully subtle of a legendary metal group, who is hiding compromised by their respective offsprings’ storytelling choices as Creed delves into the out from the guru of a satanic cult intent misdeeds. Massimo (Alessandro Gassman) is lengths a man will go to in order to connect on retrieving a “Dark Hymn” that Daggers an affluent criminal-defense lawyer with a with a father he never knew. A very satisfy- stole and now bequeaths to our heroes. The chic trophy wife. His ethics are questioned by ing, redemptive crowd-pleaser, this is highly story kicks into gear once the band plays the brother Paulo (Luigi Lo Cascio), a dedicated, recommended. (S. Granger) piece—which turns everybody within ear- humanitarian doctor at a big-city hospital shot into zombie-like monsters. Brodie and who has to patch together a child shot by The Cut HHH1/2 his cohorts struggle to fight off the menace, one of Massimo’s clients. And then Paolo and Strand, 138 min., in Armenian, while the cult leader and his minions show up his tour-guide wife Clara (Giovanna Mezzo- Arabic & English w/English to reclaim the hymn, with much comically giorno) come to suspect that their own sullen subtitles, not rated, DVD: teen son, a fan of violent Internet videos, $29.99 bloody mayhem ensuing. Writer-director Jason Lei Howden assembles the basic in- may have committed a shocking street crime Fatih Akin, a German- gredients for a goofy good time, but doesn’t in the company of Massimo’s stepdaughter. born filmmaker of Turkish quite successfully blend the elements, with Which parents will go farther and be more descent, makes films about only an occasional sharp line delivered here ruthless in trying to cover up the truth? Word outsiders and the disenfran- by a largely amateur cast. Optional, at best. that a Cate Blanchett version is in the works chised. The Cut takes viewers back 100 years (F. Swietek) for English-speaking audiences could draw to the Ottoman Empire (in an area that is now added interest for this solid drama. Recom- Turkey) to chronicle the odyssey of Nazareth mended. (C. Cassady) Manoogian (Tahar Rahim), an Armenian The Diary of a Teenage Christian torn from his family by the Turks Girl HHH1/2 during World War I. Nazareth survives the Sony, 102 min., R, DVD: Disaster Playground Armenian genocide (an historical event $30.99, Blu-ray: $34.99 HHH1/2 still officially denied in Turkey) and treks In narrative terms, The Kino Lorber, 65 min., not rated, halfway across the world to try to find his Diary of a Teenage Girl has DVD: $24.95 daughters. Nazareth’s journey spans almost an afterschool special vibe This eye-opening, weird- a decade, as he traverses thousands of miles as it unspools a story about ly entertaining documen- (through Lebanon, Cuba, Florida, and the an impressionable 15-year-old girl who in- tary offers a vast overview plains of the American Midwest), and deals dulges in sex with a much older man when of the complex network of with people speaking multiple languages, a permissive, dysfunctional family life offers national and international agencies involved although he himself was left speechless from her no guidance. But filmmaker Marielle in dealing with asteroids and meteors that a throat wound (the cut of the film’s title). Heller’s treatment of Phoebe Gloeckner’s are plummeting toward Earth. Quirky film- Nazareth observes and endures inhuman semi-autobiographical graphic novel refuses maker Nelly Ben Hayoun engages an army acts of cruelty, but is also the beneficiary of to mute the story’s raw quality or paint the of scientists and policymakers at all levels kindness and generosity from strangers along characters in bland, simplistic tones. It also of astro-science and world government to

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 20 MARCH/APRIL 2016 explore the complex process of identifying Drown H1/2 the film is shapeless—a blurry succession of cosmic threats to our planet. But Hayoun Strand, 97 min., not rated, club scenes and relationship disasters. Not a doesn’t conduct straightforward interviews; DVD: $27.99 necessary purchase. (T. Keogh) she puts key figures off-guard by having them An unpleasant drama act out imaginary scenes using ridiculous that suffers from a garbled Emptying the Skies props, or showing viewers what it might narrative flow, Drown is a HHH1/2 be like to be awakened from slumber by character study set against Music Box, 78 min., not rated, an urgent phone call about a falling body. ominous events that threat- DVD: $29.95 Hayoun also vigorously asserts herself in the en to break into cruel violence at any mo- Bestselling author Jona- film by playing characters, including a gov- ment. Juggling slices of past and present than Franzen says here that ernment spokeswoman whose performance scenes, filmmaker Dean Francis (adapting he has avoided environ- is critiqued by officials. Despite the nutty a stage play by Stephen Davis) creates a mo- mentalism because he was streak, however, Disaster Playground offers saic portrait of Len (Matt Levett), a lifeguard afraid of turning into a “misanthropist.” But a fascinating look at the many elements in- whose consistent good work earns him an when he became transfixed by wild birds, he volved in tracking asteroids, which include annual award, an honor that he eagerly laps could not help himself, especially when as- mini-observatories planted at high altitudes up given his barely sublimated self-loathing signed to write about uncontrolled poaching for the specific purpose of spotting anything and rage. Bullied by his father for being gay, of vanishing songbirds in southern Europe. headed our way; offices at NASA; and plan- and generally hopeless about his options in Migrating birds, already suffering habitat ning groups at the White House and United life, Len has abused weaker gay teens and loss, are caught by the millions and sold on Nations. And this isn’t strictly about science: tried to hide his sexual orientation, even from the black market as elitist gourmet delicacies. there’s a chilling discussion here concerning himself. Along comes Phil (Jack Matthews), Although laws against the practice exist in the the difficult decisions world leaders would a confident and more carefree gay lifeguard European Union, practically nobody (except face if an asteroid could be deflected to hit a who appears to have none of the problems grassroots activists) is actively combating deemed-less-than-vital part of Earth. Highly that bedevil Len, resulting in an uneasy the cruel glue-like traps, selfish landown- recommended. (T. Keogh) relationship that explodes when Phil wins ers, thug peasants, and mafiosi in Cyprus, the award that Len has taken home for years. Italy, France, and other hotspots. Filmmaker Divide in Concord Drunk and helpless on a beach at night, Phil Douglas Kass rides along with the dedicated HHH will be subjected to various torments inflicted young men of a tiny Committee Against First Run, 82 min., not rated, by Len and his sidekick (Harry Cook). Unfor- Bird Slaughter, as they try to sabotage traps DVD: $24.95 tunately, the jagged, non-sequential storytell- and liberate birds—or, just as often, have This interesting docu- ing here only undercuts the strength of the to euthanize mutilated, hopelessly crippled mentary tells the story of material, dampening the intended impact. victims. Scenes of dead, dismembered, or 84-year-old widow Jean Not recommended. (T. Keogh) suffering fowl are disturbing—and rightfully Hill’s seemingly quixotic so—in this film that reminds us that behind effort to strike a blow for environmental- Eden HH the quaint charm of the Old World lie some ism, as she faces deep resistance in a town Broad Green, 131 min., in unspeakably cruel customs and traditions. that prides itself on independence. Con- French w/English subtitles, R, Highly recommended. (C. Cassady) cord, MA—where the war for American DVD: $26.99 independence began—celebrates its place There are moments when Far From Men HHH in history with Revolutionary War re-enact- we all wonder how it was Kino Lorber, 101 min., in ments and annual parades. Many Concord that time and tide washed French, Arabic, and Spanish residents don’t want to be told what to do, us onto the shore of the lives w/English subtitles, not rated, clinging to a rationale that personal lib- we’re currently living. An interesting if also DVD: $29.95 erty trumps all other concerns, including sometimes taxing French drama, Eden tries to Set in Algeria, circa 1954, damaging the oceans and contributing to capture that drift of experience over 20-plus against a backdrop of gue- pollution. After learning from her grand- years in the lives of several techno-music DJs, rilla war waged by Muslims son about the destructive impact of plastic who ride a wave of enthusiasm for electronic against French colonials, David Oelhoffen’s bottles that end up in Earth’s oceans by the rave sounds in Parisian clubs. Inevitably, of adaptation/enlargement of Albert Camus’s millions, Hill makes it her personal mission course, that wave flattens, as do the char- “The Guest” manages to stretch a short to ban plastic water bottles in Concord. The acters’ fortunes. Director Mia Hansen-Løve story to feature length. At a time when pushback is tremendous and comes from largely focuses on Paul (Félix de Givry), whom insurgents are indiscriminately picking off various sources, including the phenom- viewers first meet as an optimistic kid in French citizens, rural French schoolteacher enally profitable bottled water industry; 1992. Paul is captivated by dance music that Daru (Viggo Mortensen, who co-produced local merchants; and anti-regulation types he can create through sampling and manipu- this film for iconic French studio Pathé) is who cleverly frame Hill’s movement as a lating ever-shifting beats. As the years pass, assigned by the local militia with the task of war on drinking water instead of on the Paul partners with Stan (Hugo Conzelmann) taking a young Arab named Mohamed (Reda bottles. Year after year, Hill and her sup- to form a DJ duo. The two prove to be a hit Kateb)—accused of murdering a cousin—to porters work to get their measure passed, and briefly become a sensation in New York. his trial and sentencing in the nearest siz- only to fail. But the margin shrinks each Along the way, there are drugs, tragedies, able city. Daru wants no part of it and tries time, proving that the message is getting changing trends, and romances that sizzle to set the stranger free. But Mohamed is through. Filmmaker Kris Kaczor does a and fizzle (Greta Gerwig brings a whimsi- determined to go through with his ordeal thorough job of capturing the politics of cal, ethereal presence to her role as the true under French authorities, rather than face Hill’s quest, treating all sides respectfully love that Paul lets slip away). By the early the rougher justice of his countrymen. Their and fairly, while also serving up an affect- 2000s, there is a sense that these declining reluctant journey together—shown in long, ing portrait of a quiet grandmother who champions have fallen into the trap of con- meaningful takes filmed in a harsh, forebod- discovers her life’s work in her winter years. stant, desperate reinvention. Unfortunately, ing landscape—reveals hidden truths in the Recommended. (T. Keogh) while Eden tries to be philosophic, much of pasts of both men and muddles the status of

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 22 MARCH/APRIL 2016 captor and captive. A powerful, beautifully Smitten with one of her ladies-in-waiting erected on a B-grade mythology about space filmed, thought-provoking drama, this is (Sarah Gadon), this queen indeed takes a emperors and lost souls that was hastily recommended. (C. Cassady) lover, but not one that suits her longtime grafted onto Hubbard’s gobbledygook-filled mentor (Michael Nyqvist). Patrick Bauchau 1950 self-help tome Dianetics. Hubbard was Full of Grace HHH costars as Kristina’s favorite thinker, René dead by the time Scientology finally (and Cinedigm, 83 min., not rated, Descartes. A handsome period biography, rather amazingly) bulldozed the IRS into DVD: $14.95 deftly directed by Mika Kaurismaki, this is granting it tax-exempt status in 1993. David Although solemn (some- recommended. (T. Keogh) Miscavige, Hubbard’s successor, is portrayed times to the point of tonal as gangster-level sinister, going to extremes to keep celeb Scientologists such as John Tra- monotony), Full of Grace A Girl Like Her HH1/2 serves up an interesting Cinedigm, 93 min., PG-13, volta and Tom Cruise happy in the church. and moving story about DVD: $19.95 No voices defending Scientology are heard, a critical moment in the early Christian A quasi-documentary making this a rather one-sided takedown. church, centering on the role that Jesus’s approach is combined here Still, testimony by ex-Scientologists and mother played in reminding the apostles with the found-footage for- escapees, including filmmaker Paul Haggis of her son’s legacy. A decade following the mula to deliver a stern (often and former elite member Hana Eltringham death and resurrection of Christ, Mary hectoring) warning against Whitfield, effectively condemn the sect, as do (Bahia Haifi) spends her final days resting bullying in Amy S. Weber’s sincere but heavy- the cult’s own hysterically kitschy, internally and recalling the pivotal event in her life, handed tale about a high-school girl goaded produced promo videos and media. Highly when she was called upon to bear God’s into attempting suicide by a classmate who recommended. (C. Cassady) only son. While she is being looked after by was once her friend. Most of A Girl Like Her the young Zara (Kelsey Chow), the apostle is a faux documentary being made by Amy The Good Dinosaur Peter (Noam Jenkins) comes calling, bur- Gallagher (Weber, who generally confines HHH dened by the responsibility of salvaging herself to off-screen questions) about a highly Walt Disney, 94 min., PG, and unifying the fledgling church in the regarded public high school. During filming, DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray/DVD face of rival Christian sects. Many of these Amy learns that one of the students, Jessica Combo: $39.99 factions, Peter reports, are like loose can- (Lexi Ainsworth), has attempted suicide, and A near apocalypse oc- nons, sans legitimacy and even incorporat- she changes the focus of her film to find out curred 65 million years ago ing pagan practices. Yet Peter is unsure of why, discovering that Jessica was harassed when an asteroid almost direction: having spent years traveling and by her former friend Avery (Hunter King), hit Earth. Almost is the key word here, ministering while under constant peril, he a stereotypical mean girl who used direct since dinosaurs didn’t go extinct. Some- is ambivalent about what to do. Mary helps intimidation and social network attacks to where in the prehistoric American West, him and the other apostles remember how humiliate and threaten Jessica. The extent of beneath the Clawtooth Mountains, there’s their lives were changed through knowing the emotional assault is made clear through a homesteading family of long-necked Christ, and how her own life was defined Avery’s spycam footage, and eventually Amy green Apatosauruses, headed by Poppa by her son’s mission, gruesome sacrifice, confronts Avery as Jessica’s parents hold vigil (voiced by Jeffrey Wright) and Momma and conquering of death. Haifi and Jenkins in her hospital room. The film tries to get (Frances McDormand). When a flashflood both deliver powerful, emotionally rich beyond a simple black-and-white depiction decimates their frontier farm, timid young performances in this faith-based character of the all-too-familiar terrain of kids hurting Arlo (Raymond Ochoa)—who is not big and study by writer-director Andrew Hyatt. kids by investigating the reasons for Avery’s strong like his parents and siblings—is left Recommended. (T. Keogh) actions, which center on her overbearing on his own. Having been told that he must mother. Earnest and well-intentioned, the learn self-sacrifice and courage, frightened The Girl King HHH film is also unfortunately rather preachy Arlo befriends a grunting, barking, howling Wolfe, 102 min., not rated, and stylistically clumsy, although the sub- feral boy whom he names Spot. Journeying DVD: $24.95 ject matter is important. A strong optional together through the wilderness—dodging In 1933, Greta Garbo purchase. (F. Swietek) nasty raptors and a hungry gang of ptero- famously played Sweden’s dactyls controlled by villainous Thunder- 17th-century Queen Chris- Going Clear: Scientology clap (Steve Zahn)—the pair encounter a tina as a monarch torn strange variety of exotic animal species, between duty and love. The and the Prison of Belief including a pink cobra with legs, a boar- Girl King serves up a more raucous version HHH1/2 sized winged insect, and a pet-collecting of the life of the reluctant royal. Groomed FilmRise, 120 min., not rated, Styracosaurus (Peter Sohn, who also directs) to run a kingdom during a protracted war DVD: $24.95, Blu-ray: $34.95 who is an expert in camouflage. Eventually, between Lutherans and Catholics in Europe Based on Lawrence after sampling some hallucinogenic fruits, (Sweden was a Lutheran country), Kristina Wright’s titular 2013 book, Arlo and Spot gather around a campfire (Malin Buska)—rather than “Christina”—is Alex Gibney’s high-profile HBO-aired ex- with friendly, buffalo-ranching T-Rexes, a free-thinking progressive who is intent on posé excoriates the “religion” of Scientology, whose cowboy leader, Butch (the distinc- turning Sweden into a jewel of intellectual which was founded by prolific pulp/sci-fi tively gruff voice of Sam Elliott), talks about and artistic ambition. But the queen is writer L. Ron Hubbard. With worldwide how fear must be neither surrendered to criticized in her own court as being too real-estate holdings built on fortunes bilked nor ignored. While Pixar’s 16th animated distracted and casual when it comes to es- from adherents, Scientology is here charged feature can’t be called either original or sential responsibilities. Among these is her with the ability and propensity to bully classic—borrowing elements from The Lion obligation to take a husband and give birth anyone who dares leave its tightly controlled King and The Jungle Book—it is an amusing, to an heir—which she steadfastly refuses membership (stated to be declining). Hub- anthropomorphic survivor story featuring to do. Equally stunning to her counselors bard is slammed as a pretend war hero and awesomely photorealistic landscapes that is Kristina’s agenda to create peaceful rela- virtual psychopath who established the are filled with raging rivers and fluttering tions with the pope and Catholic Church. cult as a strictly money-earning venture, fireflies. Recommended.S. ( Granger)

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For non-theatrical/institutional, please contact Courtney Vlaming @musicboxfi lms musicboxfi lms.com at cvlaming@musicboxfilms.com and 312.508.5359 Goosebumps HHH (Nat Wolff) who got Sage pregnant. Next, squad, who finds himself blackmailed by a Sony, 103 min., PG, DVD: Elle tries to sell her feminist first editions nameless voice using the criminal tip line $30.99, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: to a bookstore/cafe owner (Elizabeth Peña), to make his threats. And that’s just the first $38.99 and retrieve a loan from a transgender tattoo act. The body count rises, and the black- Based on the popular YA artist (Laverne Cox). Most memorable among mailer turns out to be so evil and all-seeing horror fiction series by R.L. the people they visit is Karl (Sam Elliott), who that he threatens to become a comic book Stine (who has sold more has never forgotten (or forgiven) Elle. Written supervillain. The director resorts to every than 400 million books and directed by Paul Weitz, Grandma serves cinematic trick in the book to create the worldwide), Goosebumps centers on teen- up a quirky character study within the wrap- perfect nightmare scenario for the compro- ager Zach Cooper (Dylan Minnette), who is per of an acerbic dramedy that is perfectly mised anti-hero. Think of this as a Korean unhappy about moving from New York to tailored for Tomlin’s considerable talents. cop noir with a wicked sense of humor and the small town of Madison, DE, where his Recommended. (S. Granger) an absurdly busy catalog of disasters, kind of recently widowed mom (Amy Ryan) takes a like a Coen brothers film minus the eccentric job as school vice-principal. But Zach’s angst Guidance HHH personalities, driven at such a fast clip that is relieved when he meets girl-next-door Strand, 80 min., not rated, you don’t have time to catch your breath (or Hannah (Odeya Rush), whose overprotective DVD: $24.99 ponder the improbabilities of the twists). dad (warning Zach to stay away) turns out Wr it e r- d i r e c t o r P at Ultimately, A Hard Day is more clever than to be reclusive author R.L. Stine (Jack Black). Mills—once a child actor smart, but it’s also so entertaining that such Apparently, the monsters Stine created in on Canadian TV—also stars distinctions hardly matter. Recommended. his mysteries are real, which is why he zeal- in this dark comedy as Da- (S. Axmaker) ously keeps them locked up. But when Zach vid Gold, a former kid actor unintentionally releases the creatures, they now fallen on hard times. Huevos: Little Rooster’s terrorize the town. So it’s up to Zach, his Gold is a desperately closeted gay man who Egg-Cellent Adventure nerdy pal Champ (Ryan Lee), Hannah, and uses alcohol and drugs to dull the pain of HH Stine to return them to the books where they his ruined career. Just after being told that Lionsgate, 98 min., in Spanish belong. Children who have enjoyed Stine’s he has advanced melanoma, Gold loses & English-dubbed, PG/PG-13, novels will recognize creatures like Abomi- his only remaining gig—recording “daily DVD: $19.98 nable Snowman of Pasadena, Praying Mantis, affirmations” of the sort that Al Franken’s Kicking off with a night- Werewolf of Fever Swamp, The Blob, Vampire Stuart Smalley used to recite on SNL—and marish opening scene in which a demon- Poodle, the evil ventriloquist’s dummy his landlady threatens to evict him. Gold ic-looking, huge-bosomed, hair-curlered Slappy (voiced by Black), and a demonic gang decides to study YouTube clips of guidance housewife goes after anthropomorphic eggs of garden gnomes. Directed by Rob Letter- counselors in order to pass himself off as one, (possibly because the woman is trying to cook man, Goosebumps combines many tales into and despite his odd manner he manages to breakfast?), Huevos: Little Rooster’s Egg-Cellent an entertaining if often frantic stew. Black secure a job at a high school, where he earns Adventure focuses on undeveloped rooster shines as the prolific writer who has churned the respect of some students by not only Rolo (voiced by Zachary Gordon) and his out 204 YA novels going back to 1992, while dispensing distinctly unconventional advice group of farm friends: chickens, eggs (that Jillian Bell gets laughs as Zach’s wacky Aunt but also sometimes a few shots from his can walk, talk, and creepily make out), and Lorraine. Silly and spooky, this engaging fam- always-at-hand bottle of vodka—to provide even a slice of bacon. The farm on which they ily-friendly hit is recommended. (S. Granger) courage to shy kids (or score some pot from live is going bankrupt, and when the old lady the campus dealer). Naturally, Gold can’t get owner decides to sell off items, the creatures Grandma HHH away with this charade forever—especially make plans to earn big money from a “box- Sony, 79 min., R, DVD: $26.99, after the gay gym teacher shows a dangerous Blu-ray: $34.99 ing match”—which looks like cockfighting interest in him—and he eventually winds up (illegal in the U.S.).Weaving in scenes of Paul Weitz’s insight- on a Bonnie-and-Clyde robbery spree with drunk poultry, a duck rap battle, and rats with ful and idiosyncratic road a student from an unhappy home. Guid- the munchies, while also fashioning a love movie revolves around Elle ance is sometimes positively scabrous, but it interest for Rolo (“she wants someone to pick Reid (Lily Tomlin), a pep- also serves up subversive fun, and Gold is a a peck of pickled peppers with!”), this wacky, pery poet and semi-retired perversely fascinating character, constantly coarse tale winds up with an undercooked repeating his affirmations in order to bolster academic who is still grieving for Violet, her finale. I watched the PG version dubbed by his confidence in the face of disasters that partner for 30 years. Elle’s day begins as she an English voice cast, but the disc also in- coldly dismisses much-younger Olivia (Judy threaten to engulf him. Recommended. cludes the Spanish-language PG-13 original Greer), with whom she’s had a four-month (F. Swietek) (perhaps some even bawdier jokes were lost fling. And then Elle’s 18-year-old grand- in translation). Also featuring the voices of daughter, Sage (Julia Garner), appears on A Hard Day HHH Jon Heder, Jason Mewes, and Keith David, her doorstep, asking for $600 to pay for an Kino Lorber, 111 min., in this computer-animated film is optional, at abortion scheduled for later that afternoon. Korean w/English subtitles, not best. (J. Williams-Wood) Having just paid her bills, Elle is broke. And rated, DVD or Blu-ray: $29.95 she cannot use her credit cards since she This sly crime thriller cut them up to make a wind chime, wryly from South Korean film- The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2 explaining, “I’m transmogrifying my life maker Kim Seong-hun HH into art.” Since going to Sage’s brusque, opens with a hit-and-run Lionsgate, 113 min., PG-13, DVD: $29.95, Blu- judgmental businesswoman mother (Marcia on a dark night. The life of the driver, hap- ray/DVD Combo: $39.99, Mar. 22 Gay Harden) is out of the question, the pair less Gun-soo (Lee Sun-kyun), unravels from Director Francis Lawrence’s highly antici- climb into Violet’s ’55 Dodge Royal Lancer there as he tries to cover up the crime while pated conclusion begins where Part 1 left off, and begin driving around Los Angeles, try- also managing the funeral of his mother and with bruised and battered Katniss Everdeen ing to scrounge up the necessary cash. First ducking an internal affairs investigation. Yes, (Jennifer Lawrence) recovering after being stop is an attempt to shakedown the weasel Gun-soo is a police detective on a corrupt almost choked to death by brainwashed

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 26 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutch- bilities will eventually be crushed. The film’s a woman who indulges in sadomasochism erson). While Katniss vows visual eccentricities, most prominently mani- (and, ironically, works at a charity assist- to kill despotic President fested in clips of Claymation and stop-motion ing victims of domestic abuse), and—most Snow (Donald Sutherland), photography (which complement the dream unsettling of all—a couple who play out a resistance leader Alma Coin sequences) unfortunately fail to compensate sexually-explicit sex-slave fantasy, with the (Julianne Moore) says that for the general absence of a compelling story. corpulent, hirsute, and completely naked Katniss is more valuable Optional, at best. (M. Sandlin) male acceding to every wish of a partner as the iconic Mockingjay, who can be brutally demanding. How much inspiring others to band I Hope You Dance: The of this is truly documentary footage and together and end district rivalries in Panem. Power and Spirit of Song how much is staged is somewhat unclear, But this reduces Katniss to a primarily passive HHH but all is artfully arranged into formalized figurehead, assigned to the Star Squad, which tableaux—characteristic of Seidl’s style. A Virgil, 96 min., not rated, DVD: infiltrates a Capitol that has been booby- $14.99 fascinating, frequently disturbing glimpse trapped against the rebels. Lots of violent, into the dark corners of the Austrian psyche, often fatal CGI skirmishes ensue, particularly Originally broadcast on this is recommended for more adventurous when the squad takes a claustrophobic under- the Hallmark Channel, I collections. (F. Swietek) ground route, and winds up in battles with Hope You Dance is a touch- slithering sewer slimes. Resilient stylist Effie ing, inspirational documentary about the making of a song that many people have The Iron Ministry HHH Trinket (Elizabeth Banks) continues to flut- Icarus, 83 min., in Mandarin ter, while the videographer (Natalie Dormer) found healing and motivating during pain- w/English subtitles, not rated, keeps the cameras rolling. Many feel that the ful times. Half the film concerns the power DVD: $29.98 of music to rally us, whether we’re look- third book in Suzanne Collins’s trilogy is the The Chinese passenger ing for answers or strength or relief from weakest and never should have been split into railway system might not extraordinary challenges. In addition to two parts, but studio greed naturally prevailed. sound like a scintillating comments from songwriters Tia Sillers and Even with the support of veterans Sutherland, subject for a documentary, Mark D. Sanders about creating the titular hit Moore, Stanley Tucci, and the late Philip but filmmaker J.P. Sniadecki uses a semi-im- country song, the documentary also features Seymour Hoffman (whose last Gamesmaker mersive approach to thrust viewers into the commentary from the song’s singer Lee Ann Plutarch Heavensbee’s message is read aloud by experience of travel for ordinary Chinese Womack. Also on hand are the late Dr. Maya Woody Harrelson’s Haymitch), star Lawrence citizens, along the way providing a glimpse Angelou (who calls “I Hope You Dance” her here seems to sense that this slog has become of their views on political and economic mat- favorite song), Vince Gill, Graham Nash stale, while—as Katniss’s suitors—Hutcher- (who performs “Teach Your Children”), and ters (some are highly critical of government son and Liam Hemsworth are dismally dull Brian Wilson (who plays a bit of “God Only policy). Initially, viewers might be put off by lumps. Optional. (S. Granger) Knows”). The remainder of the film serves up minutes of black screen (apart from the titles) true stories about individuals who found ways accompanied only by the noise of a moving I Believe in Unicorns to regain hope following tragedy, including train, followed by close-ups of creaking parts HH grieving parents whose only child died yet of a locomotive that only gradually morph IndiePix, 80 min., not rated, lives on, in a sense, through the people who into long tracking shots as the camera pro- DVD: $29.95 received her organs as transplants. And there ceeds through aisles, picking up snatches of Whereas during the is a heartening look at a homeless shelter in conversation—sometimes not translated—or 1980s cinematic teenage Phoenix where clients are learning ballroom following a vendor as he offers snacks and angst was safe in the hands dancing—turns out that learning to dance cigarettes from a pushcart. The first long of real talents like John is both a confidence-booster and visibly lifts dialogue passage comes when a small boy Hughes and Amy Heckerling, nowadays—if morale. Recommended. (T. Keogh) delivers a pseudo-announcement encourag- rookie director Leah Meyerhoff’s debut is ing people to toss trash throughout the train any measure—a teen’s coming-of-age ex- HHH and engage in even more unsavory conduct. In the Basement Although the film was assembled from foot- perience is reduced to kids moping around Strand, 81 min., in German in a trance-like state dreaming of unicorns. w/English subtitles, not rated, age shot in various trains over several years, it Exuding a vaguely poetic sensibility, young DVD: $27.99 is edited to suggest a single journey in which protagonist Davina (played with soporific Director Ulrich Seidl’s old, crowded, filthy accommodations on cars understatement by Natalia Dyer) is a shy high oddball documentary fo- littered with cigarette butts are contrasted schooler who develops a crush on a brood- cuses on hobbies that his with scenes from newer trains, where people ing, cigarette-sucking skate punk named Austrian compatriots enjoy sit in comfort and toy with their smartphones Sterling (Peter Vack). Although there is no in the basement—an area of the home that is or discuss their lives and dreams, either with chemistry between Sterling and Davina, generally free from prying eyes. One elderly other travelers or directly to the camera. One both are obsessed with the idea of escape, gent invites the members of his brass band can read The Iron Ministry as a metaphor for but don’t know where to go. So, they launch to rehearse and drink in rooms filled with the changing face of a nation in the throes themselves on an impromptu roadtrip of his cherished Nazi memorabilia. A hunter of an economic revolution, but patient indefinite duration, while Davina leaves her enthuses over the stuffed animal heads on viewers will find it engrossing simply as a crippled wheelchair-bound mother to fend his walls. A woman enters a storage room unique sensory experience. Recommended. for herself. The rest of the story serves up a filled with dolls, which she gently extracts (F. Swietek) mélange of indulgent dream sequences (some from their boxes and coos over like a mother involving the titular unicorns), 8mm home waking her children. A man singing operatic Jellyfish Eyes HH1/2 movie-style interludes, and the boring teen arias at the top of his lungs also has a gun Criterion, 101 min., in Japanese w/English couple’s random adventures—which amount range in his basement. Midway through, subtitles, not rated, DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 to shoplifting, screwing, arguing, and eating the emphasis turns decidedly kinky as the Internationally renowned visual artist Ta- at diners. Of course, Davina’s naïve dreams camera visits a salesgirl-turned-prostitute kashi Murakami’s feature film serves up a fan- of escaping reality and its attendant responsi- and a client who brags about his potency, tasy of childhood innocence with fantastical

MARCH/APRIL 2016 27 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Pokemon-like creature play- Witch Queen’s effort to destroy humanity cantankerous grandmother, Karen (Tristan). mates in a post-Fukushima by inflicting the Black Death on the world. Karen is a legendary, retired actress of stage world. Jellyfish Eyes is also Cut to the present, where Kaulder is still in- and screen who lives semi-independently on a strange conspiracy tale volved in his war against black magic as the a rural spread. She is also beginning to slide involving a cult of young chief soldier in a religious society that has into dementia and has cardiac problems. researchers in a mysterious provided him with a succession of clerical Despite these obstacles, Karen takes in Julie, lab who apply science and helpers called Dolans over the years. When but winds up being judgmental and prickly magic to transport creatures the current Dolan (Michael Caine) is killed towards the girl. Auditions for a community from an alternate reality. The central story and replaced by a newcomer (Elijah Wood), theater production lure Julie into her first revolves around a young boy named Masashi Kaulder is sent on a mission to discover what stage experience, a development that thrills (Takuto Sueoka), who lost his father during nefarious plot the witches are hatching. The Karen. But Julie’s grief is made worse by a a tsunami and has moved to a small town search takes him to a bar run by a spunky two-timing boy, while the arrival of her father with his mother. After a cooing magical white witch (Rose Leslie) who becomes his adds further complications. As Julie, Tarnow creature—looking vaguely like a mushroom unlikely sidekick on a quest that culminates is one-note, which makes Tristan’s shot at doll—essentially adopts him, Masashi discov- in a confrontation with the resurrected a virtuoso performance that much more ers that every kid has one of their own, which Queen, who is still determined to annihilate obvious in this film directed by Tarnow’s they control with a handheld device (much humankind. The contorted plot is replete husband, John Hancock. A disappointing like a Gameboy) and send into battles. There with oddball characters and complications effort, this is not a necessary purchase. is plenty of gentle satire here—game culture that are illogical even by the low standards (T. Keogh) and addiction, merchandising, high school of this kind of genre nonsense, but all of the cliques and bullying, and religion—but no mystical gobbledygook quickly grows tire- Macbeth HH1/2 real teeth to the message or edge to the film. some and the visual effects are astonishingly Anchor Bay, 113 min., R, DVD: The kids are a flavorless bunch, while the shabby. The makers of this gargantuan mis- $22.98, Blu-ray: $26.99, Mar. 8 adults have even less personality, and con- fire might have hoped it would serve as the The atmosphere is the flicts are resolved in a flash of generosity and start of a new franchise, but it’s more likely real star of this new screen rousing call to unity. Jellyfish Eyesultimately that this will be the last Last Witch Hunter. version of Shakespeare’s can’t decide if it is a parody of juvenile anime Not recommended. (F. Swietek) classic tragedy, in which and game culture or simply an idealistically Michael Fassbender’s ambi- upbeat pop-art incarnation of the same. Op- Like You Mean It HH tious Scottish thane and Marion Cotillard’s tional. (S. Axmaker) Breaking Glass, 90 min., not manipulative Lady Macbeth (not to men- rated, DVD: $21.99 tion the Bard’s text) play second fiddle to The Kindergarten A somber tone permeates the graphic-novel mood of gloom, blood, Teacher HHH1/2 writer-director-star Philipp and fatalism favored by director Justin Kino Lorber, 120 min., in Karner’s somewhat listless Kurzel. Still, the film does possess interest- Hebrew w/English subtitles, not Like You Mean It. Karner ing elements, the most intriguing being its rated, DVD: $29.95, Blu-ray: plays Mark, a struggling ac- focus on father-son relationships. Macbeth $34.95 tor and one-half of a once-smooth romantic begins with a scene in which the central Israeli filmmaker Nadav relationship with musician Jonah (Denver couple presides over the funeral of an infant Lapid’s ominously low-key Milord). Subject to anxiety and depression, (presumably theirs), and next turns to the drama centers on the mounting fixation Mark slowly sinks into a dark hole, while the death of a boy—either Macbeth’s older son that kindergarten teacher Nira (Sarit Larry) emotionally stable, upbeat Jonah watches in or a favored squire to whom he’s become a develops for one special pupil, a withdrawn, helpless frustration. A steady visual refrain surrogate father—during the initial battle sensitive five-year-old boy named Yoav (Avi offers glimpses of the couple in happy early sequence. Later, the narrative centers not Shnaidman), the son of a fiery published days that sharply contrast with current scenes only on Duncan (David Thewlis) and his writer. Quiet and sensitive after his parents’ of strained communication and out-of-sync son Malcolm (Jack Reynor), but also on ugly divorce, Yoav seems to be a budding interest in the bedroom (and everywhere Banquo (Paddy Considine) and his young literary prodigy himself, verbally composing else). Sequences of the pair at therapy sessions son Fleance (Lochlann Harris)—the latter poems and ballads of love and loss that sug- suggest more unraveling than healing—no taking up the sword to avenge his murdered gest maturity beyond his years—pieces that amount of relationship exercises or pharma- father at the close. It also shows the fiery Nira obsessively tries to record and promote ceuticals is going to help. Karner sprinkles execution of Macduff’s (Sean Harris) chil- to other apathetic adults. She believes Yoav in revelations concerning Mark’s troubled dren along with his wife—a fire motif that to be a Mozart-level genius who is going to connection with his family-of-origin, but continues in the red hue that is added to the waste in a decadent society, and she fatefully for the most part the film offers a too obvi- final reel, as Macduff sets aflame the timbers crosses personal and professional boundaries ous trajectory of a partnership losing steam. his soldiers are carrying from Birnam Wood to get closer to his inscrutable creative soul. Optional. (T. Keogh) to confront Macbeth. While these interpre- Although sometimes slow-moving, this tive touches are admittedly provocative, highly-acclaimed film packs a wallop at the The Looking Glass H1/2 this Macbeth remains a lugubriously grim end. Highly recommended. (C. Cassady) First Run, 110 min., not rated, affair, with much of the text whispered or DVD: $24.95 mumbled, often against montages of extra- The Last Witch Hunter H Largely a vanity project neous visuals. Fassbender brings a leonine Lionsgate, 106 min., PG-13, for writer-actress Dorothy gruffness to Macbeth but doesn’t convey the DVD: $29.95, Blu-ray/DVD Tristan (whose onscreen character’s emotional descent, while neither Combo: $39.99 credits include 1972’s Klute), he nor Cotillard bring much poetry to the Bald monotone star Vin The Looking Glass is a thin verse. Overall, this feels more like Kurzel’s Diesel plays Kaulder, a 14th- drama about an unhappy 13-year-old girl Macbeth than Shakespeare’s. Still, it should century hero who becomes named Julie (Grace Tarnow), whose mother be considered a strong optional purchase. immortal after foiling the dies, after which Julie goes to stay with her (F. Swietek)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 28 MARCH/APRIL 2016 CAT # MILE00147 CAT # MILEBD00147 UPC- 784148014746 UPC- 784148014753 NEW RELEASE FROM SRP: $3 4 .99 SRP: $39.99 MILESTONE FILMS

New Releases From OSCILLOSCOPE LABORATORIES

W HAT OUR FATHERS DID THE WONDERS A NAZI LEGACY OFFICIAL W INNER SELECTION JERUSALEM TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL THE WONDERS centers on a family FILM FESTIVAL of beekeepers living in the Tuscan countryside. The dynamic of their overcrowded household is WHAT OUR FATHERS DID disrupted by the simultaneous explores the relationship arrival of a troubled teenaged boy between two men, Niklas taken in as a farmhand and Frank and Horst von Wächter, a reality TV show Intent on each of whom are the showcasing the family. children of high-ranking Nazi officials and possess starkly CAT # OSC-066 contrasting attitudes toward UPC- 857490005219 their fathers. SRP: $34.99 CAT # OSC-067

OFFICIAL SELECTION OFFICIAL SELECTION UPC- 857490005202 WGRIANNDN PREIXR CANNES FILM FESTIVAL SRP: $34.99 STREET DATE: MARCH 8, 2016 STREET DATE: MARCH 15, 2016 www.oscilloscope.net Making Rounds HHH The Martian HHHH ing sites, meeting plausible candidates, and First Run, 88 min., not rated, Fox, 141 min., PG-13, DVD: even attending a “Patel convention” where DVD: $24.95 $29.98, Blu-ray: $39.99 marriageable members of the huge clan en- Muffie Meyer, who co- Based on Andy Weir’s best- gage in speed-dating. Ravi also visits friends directed and co-edited the selling novel, Ridley Scott’s and family who invariably have certain classic documentary Grey multiple-Oscar-nominated women in mind. Most of this is genial and Gardens, helms this compel- The Martian is an exhilarat- good-natured, but also somewhat repetitive, ling portrait of Drs. Valentin ing, super-suspenseful saga and the outcome of Ravi’s search for a bride Fuster and Herschel Sklaroff, two cardiologists of an astronaut who is accidentally stranded probably won’t come as much of a surprise at New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital. As the on Mars. When a colossal dust storm forces for viewers. Still, this sporadically amusing film’s title suggests, the doctors make their the Ares III crew to abort their Mars surface true-life rom-com should be considered a rounds and speak at length with patients exploration, Commander Lewis (Jessica Chas- strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek) in the hospital’s Cardiac Care Unit while tain) orders a hasty evacuation, believing that accompanied by young doctors-in-training. crewmate Mark Watney (Matt Damon) has Mississippi Grind HHH The work is not easy, by any stretch, with been killed by flying debris. But as satellite Lionsgate, 109 min., R, DVD: challenges coming from the patients (includ- photography soon reveals, Watney is alive. So $19.98, Blu-ray: $24.99 ing a man suffering from heart failure who it’s up to NASA director Sanders (Jeff Daniels) Ryan Reynolds and Ben adamantly refuses to accept prescribed treat- and his cohorts at Pasadena’s Jet Propulsion Mendelsohn star in this ment) and the medical system itself (some pa- Laboratory to figure out how to help Watney road movie about two gam- tients have previously misdiagnosed issues). stay that way in the habitation module, and blers who meet over a poker While the film touches on many problems rescue him before his food supply runs out. game and team up to bet that bedevil Mount Sinai Hospital and the Fortunately, Watney is a resourceful bota- their way from Iowa to a big tournament in wider U.S. healthcare environment, the core nist and courageous problem-solver. After New Orleans. Reynolds is the charismatic focus of Making Rounds is on the charming removing the shrapnel lodged in his torso, Curtis, generous and trusting to a fault, while doctors, who spend liberal amounts of time he’s faced with basic survival tasks. “I’m Mendelsohn is self-destructive Gerry, a listening to their patients’ needs and commu- gonna have to science the shit out of this,” hopeless gambling addict and pathological nicating their diagnoses with an impressive he declares, and then proceeds to improvise liar whose past is a wrecking yard of ruined sense of both maturity and sincerity. In many and innovate while displaying a disarmingly relationships and failed promises. Mississippi ways, Fuster and Sklaroff represent a higher acerbic sense of humor. Of course, there are Grind plays like a ‘70s character drama, an standard of physician care, and one can only unforeseen catastrophes waiting in the wings. oddball buddy movie in which the anti- hope that their acolytes will carry on their Damon is charming and utterly convincing heroes journey through a landscape of card noble tradition. Recommended. (P. Hall) as the geeky contemporary Robinson Crusoe, rooms, dice tables, and racetracks. Filmmak- ably supported by a stellar backup cast that ing team Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck (Half Man Up HHH includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sean Bean, Kristen Nelson) have a knack for finding the right Lionsgate, 89 min., R, DVD or Wiig, and Michael Peña. An enthralling sci-fi patter of dialogue, rhythms of body language, Blu-ray: $19.98 adventure epic, this is highly recommended. and expressive silences between words. Shot A romantic comedy for Editor’s Choice. (S. Granger) on location along the Mississippi River, the the modern age with a de- film offers a great tour of the backroads of cidedly British sensibility, Meet the Patels HH1/2 the American Dream, where folks make bets Man Up stars Lake Bell as Alchemy, 88 min., PG, DVD: in hopes of fortune, playing until the money Nancy, a thirtysomething $19.99 is gone. Sienna Miller, Analeigh Tipton, and writer and singleton living in London who This extended home Robin Weigert costar as the women in the has given up on dating. Simon Pegg costars as movie documentary by lives of the central drifters, while Alfre Wood- disappointed divorcé Jack, who is trying out siblings Geeta and Ravi ard has a memorable scene as a loan shark. Internet dating for the first time. At a train Patel draws laughs based A solid indie film, this is recommended. station, Jack mistakes Nancy for “Jessica”—his on intergenerational and (S. Axmaker) 24-year-old blind date—and Nancy goes with intercultural divisions within the Indian- the flow, until the truth inevitably comes American community. Geeta is behind the Natural Resistance out and their terrific chemistry devolves camera, recording the family’s efforts to find HHH into arguments and recriminations. Such is a wife for Ravi, an actor, who narrates here Kino Lorber, 86 min., in Italian the bumpy road to true love, or at the very and also occasionally appears in animated w/English subtitles, not rated, least second chances. For all of the rom-com sequences as a cartoon version of himself. DVD: $24.95 conventions here (starting with that mis- But the most memorable characters are their The attitude of filmmaker taken-identity/meet-cute premise), director parents, Champa and Vasant, traditionalists Jonathan Nossiter toward Ben Palmer’s Man Up exudes a low-key charm determined to see their son married to an globalization of the wine in- and offers an adult take on expectations, appropriate Indian bride, although they are dustry and the standardization of its products disappointments, and missed opportunities also willing to make some adjustments to the has already been made abundantly clear in along the way to a happy ending. Pegg dials process their family has followed since time both his feature documentary Mondovino (VL down the geekiness and slacker comedy of immemorial—which has been to not just Online-9/05) and his identically-named 10- his usual roles to portray a man genuinely wed another “Patel” (a name more common part TV series follow-up (VL-3/10). Nossiter hurt by his failed marriage but putting on a in India than Smith or Jones is in America) takes up the struggle anew here, shifting his good face. And Bell, who is superb at comic but also a Patel from a specific region in the focus in order to decry governmental policies, awkwardness and self-effacing humor, adopts Gujarat area. Ravi has been secretly dating an particularly regulations coming from the a convincing British accent and exhibits a American named Audrey for some time, but European Union that seem designed to drive touching vulnerability. A sweet and satisfying when they break up, he agrees to accept his artisanal winemakers (and cheese producers) film that sports an easygoing humor, this is parents’ help in finding a suitable mate. That out of business. Nossiter makes his argument recommended. (S. Axmaker) involves going over résumés from Indian dat- largely through conversations with growers

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 30 MARCH/APRIL 2016 who try to continue to follow traditional cide of one of his patients Paranormal Activity: The techniques in four regions of Italy. The most falls into a cult’s orbit with Ghost Dimension H memorable is certainly Stefano Bellotti, a disastrous results in this Paramount, 87 min., R, DVD: radical Piedmont farmer who discourses Australian psychological $29.99, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: learnedly on history and science while also thriller. Travis (Mark Leon- $39.99 taking up a shovel to show the soil differ- ard Winter) is so distraught Paranormal Activity (2009) ences between his neighbor’s vineyards over the death he failed to served up a stylistically clev- and his own. Other interviewees include prevent that he goes into a er variant on the found foot- Giovanna Tiezzi and Stefano Borsa, who deadly emotional tailspin, but is saved by age horror formula using stationary cameras, operate a winery from a converted Tuscan a support group that he is introduced to but succeeding installments floundered. This monastery; Corrado Dottori and Valerio by Grace (Tilda Cobham-Hervey), a beau- sixth entry provides a sort-of summation of Bochi, who have retreated from Milan to tiful girl Travis met who was handing out the fractured mythology involving a demon their grandfather’s farm in the Marches; pamphlets on his commuter train. Travis that haunts houses and their residents, plow- and Elena Pantaleoni, a former librarian is taken to their isolated rural compound, ing well-worn ground as cheerful couple Ryan now tending vineyards on her father’s land where the charismatic Father Jay (Steve Le (Chris J. Murray) and Emily (Brit Shaw), along in Emilia. All offer wry commentary on Marquand) presides over a family of docile with their young daughter Leila (Ivy George), having to contend with bureaucratic in- followers. Initially, Travis is impressed by move into a house that is suspiciously afford- terference, while Nossiter intersperses clips Jay’s apparently supportive methods, but able. Among the former occupants’ stuff they from classic films and animated segments when he sees the cult leader taking advan- find an antique video camera that reveals to add variety. Sure to appeal to oenophiles, tage of a fragile young member of the flock, strange, bubbly bits of unseen energy, and this is recommended. (F. Swietek) he attempts to intervene—with tragic con- old tapes that depict two girls being inducted sequences. Filmmaker Nick Matthews’s low- into witchcraft by a sinister man. At the same The New Girlfriend budget film builds a mood of unease, but time, Leila begins talking to an invisible HHH the pace is extremely slow, and apart from friend, and poltergeist-like phenomena starts Cohen, 108 min., in French Father Jay, the characters are sketchy, and occurring, which the parents try to capture w/English subtitles, R, DVD: some of the action simply strains credulity. on film. The couple even go so far as to call $24.98, Blu-ray: $34.98 Not a necessary purchase. (F. Swietek) in a priest, who concludes that everything The “new girlfriend” happening is the result of an agreement that of Francois Ozon’s comic Our Brand Is Crisis the previous owner made with a demon who drama isn’t what you might HH1/2 needs to possess children in order to assume expect. Mourning the sudden death of his Warner, 107 min., R, DVD: human form. When the cleric remarks “what young wife Laura (played by Isild Le Besco in $28.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 we need is an extermination”—one can’t help flashbacks), widower David (Romain Duris) Apart from weapons but be grateful that this is purportedly the calms himself and his infant son by dress- shipped to other nations, final installment in the series. Not recom- ing in his wife’s clothes. This shocks Laura’s perhaps the worst U.S. ex- mended. (F. Swietek) best friend Claire (Anaïs Demoustier), even port nowadays is political after David explains that Laura knew about consultants, who having debased Ameri- The Pearl Button HHH this predilection. But as Claire spends more can elections with unsavory methods, Kino Lorber, 82 min., in time with David’s feminine side (which he are now busily engaged doing the same Spanish w/English subtitles, names Virginia), she becomes enchanted in foreign climes. Their baleful influence DVD: $29.95, Blu-ray: $34.95, Mar. 22 with her new girlfriend. It’s tempting to is the subject of David Gordon Green’s call this film a dark comedy—it’s based on a well-meaning but uneven dramedy, which Chilean filmmaker Patri- novel by author Ruth Rendell (a specialist in doesn’t quite do justice to its promising cio Guzmán is known for mysteries and psychological thrillers)—but premise as either comedy or drama. Our his documentaries focusing while full of wit, there is actually very Brand Is Crisis is a fictionalized take on on the 1973 coup that overthrew President little darkness in this playful psychologi- the 2002 presidential election in Bolivia, Salvador Allende—which ushered in the cal drama. David is neither gay nor trans- during which James Carville helped elect repressive military regime of Augusto Pino- sexual, and the central pair’s girlish outings a disgraced ex-president over populist Evo chet—including The Battle of Chile; Chile, ultimately lead to sexual attraction, which Morales. Here, the Carville character is Obstinate Memory (VL-1/99); and Salvador Al- complicates matters since Claire is happily “Calamity” Jane Bodine (Sandra Bullock), lende (VL Online-6/07). In his latest essay, the married. Rather, The New Girlfriend offers a burned-out recluse coming out of retire- overriding metaphor is the sea off Chile’s long a celebration of a fluid sexual identity—a ment to advise a senator running well coastline, where he compares the plight of the nonjudgmental acceptance of what years behind other candidates, including an indigenous people of Patagonia—whose mari- ago might have been considered perverse entertainer-turned-politician who has a time lifestyle was crushed by governmental or unnatural—presented as a healthy ac- U.S. consultant too—Pat Candy (Billy Bob decree—with the Pinochet regime’s habit of knowledgment of a non-threatening desire Thornton), a man who has always been her disposing of corpses by tossing them into that also creates a pathway to a new kind of nemesis. By refashioning the dour senator the ocean from helicopters. The two threads friendship as Claire becomes a conspirator as a fighter in a time of crisis, Bodine turns are linked by the story of Jemmy Button, a in David’s secret life. An elegant, sensuous him into a serious contender, while she tribesman who was lured by a pearl bauble production with a light comic touch from and Candy trade dirty tricks on the way to into traveling to Europe in the 19th century a noted Gallic filmmaker, this is recom- Election Day. Although obviously intended and then returning to Patagonia having lost mended. (S. Axmaker) to be sharp satire, for the most part this his identity (a button found on one of the is an oddly muted film that occasionally rails that were used to weigh down the bod- One Eyed Girl HH switches to rambunctious slapstick and ies of junta victims provides a visual con- Dark Sky, 103 min., not rated, DVD: $24.98, Blu- often veers into soapy drama. Still, the nection). Guzmán’s reflections on water as ray: $29.98 star power makes this a strong optional essential to life are reinforced by observations A psychologist despondent over the sui- purchase. (F. Swietek) from artists, poets, and scientists. Evocative

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 32 MARCH/APRIL 2016 and hypnotic, The Pearl Button continues who has long been divorced from Ayoub’s takes refuge in the comfort Guzmán’s effort to keep the memory of the heroin-addict father. Ayoub’s conspicuous of her best friend, Virginia horrifying events of the ’70s alive while also pubescent lust for Laura, girlfriend of one of (Katherine Waterston), a comparing them with earlier instances of the local gang members, begins to lead him trust-fund baby spending man’s inhumanity to man. Recommended. down a dangerous path as he tries to lure her her days on perpetual vaca- (F. Swietek) away from the number one bad boy in the tion in her family’s upscale ‘hood. Ayoub soon finds himself involved vacation cabin in the woods. The Piper HH1/2 with a local Lamborghini-driving drug The pair are ostensibly there CJ Entertainment, 119 min., in dealer—entering an initiation into a violent for each other, yet are so self-involved they Korean w/English subtitles and criminal underworld that gives Ayoub the can barely break out of their own little bub- English-dubbed, PG-13, DVD: courage to pursue Laura. Prince suffers a bit bles. Somewhat spoiled and not very likable, $19.98 from a flat, unimaginative script—the central these privileged women are not softened by In filmmaker Kim Gwang- boy-gets-girl narrative here just doesn’t hold either the filmmaker or the actresses. Moss’s tae’s weirdly unsettling hor- up to close scrutiny—but this often gutsy Catherine is vulnerable and in pain, tangled ror film, the fable of the slice of social realism is directed with brac- in a torrent of contradictory emotions—an- Pied Piper of Hamelin is ing verve by de Jong. Recommended, overall. ger, betrayal, love, hate—but also narcissistic transposed to South Korea in the early 1950s. (M. Sandlin) and lacking any ability to empathize, while Kim (Ryu Seung-ryong) is a crippled flautist, Waterston is distant and wary as Virginia, traveling to Seoul to seek medical help for his The Prophet HH1/2 who is still angry at Catherine’s neglect of tubercular young son. The two stumble into Universal, 86 min., PG, DVD: her own troubles during a previous getaway. an isolated village, where they are received $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98 It’s like an American indie reworking of Hol- kindly by the chief (Lee Sung-min). After This animated adapta- lywood high melodrama—initial pettiness learning that the place is infested with car- tion of Lebanese-American and sniping growing into a passive-aggressive nivorous rats, Kim offers to drive the vermin poet Kahlil Gibran’s inspira- war between bitchy frenemies in close quar- away with his flute in return for money to tional volume of essays—a ters—but instead of the theatrical thrill of a cover his son’s medical expenses. The process passion project from pro- showboating spectacle of divas dueling with involves luring the rodents—a sequence that ducer/actress Salma Hayek—reframes the sophisticated wit and sneering delivery, the looks disturbingly real—into a cave where simple premise of the 1923 book as a political audience witnesses something uncomfort- they are trapped, and it requires a mystical allegory with spiritual dimensions. The noble ably intimate and personal. Recommended. ritual as well as music. The chief, however, poet Mustafa (voiced by Liam Neeson) is a (S. Axmaker) reneges on his promise to Kim, especially political dissident released from house arrest after the piper reveals to the villagers that the and promised freedom as long as he returns Samba HH1/2 Korean War is over, a fact the chief has been to his homeland forever. As he’s being led Broad Green, 119 min., in keeping secret in order to maintain iron-fisted out of town by a pompous, somewhat sinister French w/English subtitles, R, control. But the old man manages to turn the Sergeant (Alfred Molina), he is feted by the DVD: $26.99 townspeople against Kim, condemning him grateful villagers and invited to wax eloquent In filmmakers Eric Tole- as a dangerous outsider—perhaps a Com- on love, marriage, work, children, and other dano and Olivier Nakache’s munist spy—and instigating the mob to take topics, taken directly from Gibran’s poems. Samba, charismatic actor action against Kim and his son. This betrayal Some are read by Neeson in a rich, gravelly, Omar Sy stars as the title will induce Kim to take grisly revenge. One compassionate voice, others are transformed character, a gentle Senegalese man who has senses that The Piper is intended to be a into songs, and all are set against lovely, been living in France illegally for a decade parable about political corruption in South expressionistic animated sequences directed and is now threatened with expulsion. But Korea, but its more subtle criticisms will be by talented guest filmmakers, including Nina the plight of undocumented workers plays lost on outsiders, although it is often effective Paley (Sita Sings the Blues), Joann Sfar (The second fiddle here to the conventions of on a basic ghoulish level. A strong optional Rabbi’s Cat), Tomm Moore (The Secret of Kells), romantic comedy after Samba is committed purchase. (F. Swietek) and Oscar winners Joan Gratz and Bill Plym- to a detention camp, where he is offered help pton. The rest of the film is directed by Roger by an immigrants’ aid group represented Prince HHH Allers, who co-directed The Lion King, and he by nervous Alice (Charlotte Gainsbourg), Kino Lorber, 77 min, in Dutch brings a Disney quality to the central story, a mousy woman who immediately forms w/English subtitles, not rated, ranging from the slapstick humor around a an emotional bond with Samba that will DVD: $24.95 mute girl named Almitra (a character created naturally blossom into full-fledged romance. This gritty urban drama for the film) to the design of the caricatured Of course, no rom-com would be complete from director Sam de Jong villains (although The Prophet features some without colorful supporting characters, so is set in the drab apartment fairly dark material and is not a kid’s film, per Samba supplies not only a vivacious colleague blocks of multicultural Am- se). Fans of the beloved book will appreciate for Alice but also a reckless Brazilian lothario sterdam, far away from the middle-class this respectful adaptation, while others may who is one of Samba’s homeless friends; the pseudo-bohemian decadence of that Euro- find it too new-agey, but the guest sequences pair provide many of the film’s most overtly pean capital’s tourist-gorged city center. The are beautiful works in their own right. A comic moments (including an impromptu story centers on gangly, awkward Moroccan- strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) dance on a window-washing platform that born teen Ayoub (Ayoub Elasri), a budding wouldn’t be out of place in Magic Mike). But gangbanger who hangs out along with his Queen of Earth HHH these humorous bits are juxtaposed, rather outcast adolescent buddies on the turf of the MPI, 90 min., not rated, DVD: $24.98 uncomfortably, with increasingly intense ruling neighborhood gang of twentysome- Filmmaker Alex Ross Perry’s Queen of dramatic episodes revolving around Samba’s thing toughs—although these buffoonish Earth stars Elisabeth Moss as Catherine, a imminent deportation, and the mixture is ATV-riding hoodlums don’t exactly evoke young woman reeling not only from the jarring. Toledano and Nakache obviously the Bloods and Crips. Ayoub lives quietly sudden death of her father but also from the decry the harsh approach that France—and with his half-sister and depressive mother, emotional fallout of a bad breakup. Catherine other European nations—has taken to im-

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For non-theatrical/institutional, please contact @musicboxfi lms Courtney Vlaming at cvlaming@musicboxfilms.com musicboxfi lms.com and 312.508.5359 migration policy, but they’ve chosen to Bughuul’s plan is thwarted by the arrival of a lavishing praise on Kim Il-sung for saving send their message in a lightweight format cop (James Ransone) who witnessed events the country from Uncle Sam’s imperialism. that ultimately compromises their good in the original film and has now turned se- But as filmmaker Yoo cogently observes, intentions. Even so, this often entertaining rial arsonist, destroying places he believes North Korea only has myths but no history film should be considered a strong optional might be the sites of future massacres. None to embrace. There is no celebration of pre- purchase. (F. Swietek) of this makes the slightest lick of sense, but war Korea, nor any contemporary cultural it all winds up with the family and the cop voices that offer anything but praise for the Secrets of War HHH being threatened with immolation on some government. Yoo’s camera finds a bizarre Film Movement, 95 min., in hastily-made crosses. Inane, ineptly made, environment where grand highways and Dutch w/English subtitles, not and curiously dull, filmmaker Ciaran Foy’s avenues are absent of vehicles, and sweep- rated, DVD: $24.95 Sinister 2 represents a precipitous decline ing plazas stand virtually vacant. Few North Adapted from a 2007 best- from Scott Derrickson’s Sinister, which at least Koreans are comfortable with being filmed, selling young adult novel boasted a few genuinely spooky moments. and only the entreaties of a friendly group by Dutch author Jacques Not recommended. (F. Swietek) of schoolchildren here offers evidence of Vriens, Secrets of War fea- universal behavior. A fascinating film that tures a familiar premise— Sleeping With Other lends insight into the least understood of the horrors of war as seen through the eyes People HH Asian nations, this is highly recommended. of children. Set in the Netherlands in the Paramount, 101 min., R, DVD: (P. Hall) beginning days of WWII, the story follows $29.98 two schoolboys, Tuur (Maas Bronkhuyzen) Although one might rea- Spotlight HHHH and Lambert (Joes Brauers), as they go about sonably hope that inde- Universal, 129 min., R, DVD: their normal lives playing games, exploring pendently-made romantic $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $34.98 caves, and roughhousing while the Nazi Party comedies would improve slowly ingratiates itself within their small on their big-studio counterparts, filmmaker A fascinating, true crime village. The best friends look at war with Leslye Headland’s Sleeping With Other People story of the Pulitzer Prize- wide-eyed wonder, laughing while hiding in certainly doesn’t. In fact, her script is based winning Boston Globe in- underground bunkers during air raids and on the standard clichéd rom-com premise: vestigation that revealed hurling rocks at German trains that pass with Jake (Jason Sudeikis) and Lainey (Alison the Roman Catholic Church’s systematic mysterious cargo. Two events will change Brie) are obviously meant to be together, but cover-up of pedophile priests, the Oscar- their experience with the war: a young girl they decide to remain “just friends”…until nominated Spotlight is also the name of the comes to the village to live with her aunt the final reel, when they belatedly realize Globe’s investigative team, headed up by and uncle, and Lambert’s father becomes what the audience already knew 90 minutes Walter “Robby” Robinson (Michael Keaton) the Nazi-appointed mayor of the village. earlier: they can’t live without each other. and comprised of Michael Rezendes (Mark Uncovered secrets, young love, and shifting Before that conclusion, of course, both de- Ruffalo), Sacha Pfeiffer (Rachel McAdams), allegiances cause these events to intersect, velop relationships with others—in Lainey’s and Matt Carroll (Brian d’Arcy James). changing the boys’ friendship and life in case, a caddish married doctor; for Jake, a The group reports to managing editor Ben the village forever. Filmmaker Dennis Bots’s co-worker and single mom—who naturally Bradlee, Jr. (John Slattery), whose father Secrets of War unfolds somewhat predictably, aren’t compatible and they predictably end figured prominently in the Watergate- but it serves up an unflinching yet age-suit- badly. Along for the ride are the inevitable themed All the President’s Men. After the able portrayal of the destruction caused wisecracking best friends who serve as the Globe was bought by the New York Times by the Nazi occupation. Recommended. constant snark chorus. Sudeikis and Brie are in 2001, a new out-of-towner boss arrived: (P. Morehart) personable and attractive leads, but they’re cost-cutting Marty Baron (Liev Schrieber). undercut by a script featuring reams of hyper- Marty fearlessly urges the team to pursue Sinister 2 H1/2 articulate dialogue that smacks more of the a molestation allegation, a subject that the Universal, 98 min., R, DVD: word processor than real life. Not a necessary newspaper has traditionally ignored under $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98 purchase. (F. Swietek) tacit pressure from Cardinal Bernard Law The 2012 original Sinister (Len Cariou) and officials in the Archdio- spun a convoluted found- Songs From the North cese of Boston. Spotlight soon learns that what they are dealing with is not an isolat- footage tale about a demon HHH1/2 called Bughuul, who cajoled Kino Lorber, 72 min., in Korean ed incident. Indeed, scores of similar claims children into murdering & English w/English subtitles, have been privately settled by an evasive their families while filming the slaughter. not rated, DVD: $29.95 attorney, Eric MacLeish (Billy Crudup), out- Further elaborating on an already labyrin- North Korea is an enigma: side the legal system, while those involving thine premise, Sinister 2 has all the children everyone has heard of it, but paperwork have been sealed by complicit Bughuul turned into killers now serving as few in the West have ever judges—thereby “turning child abuse into his ghostly recruiters, enticing other unhappy seen it. Filmmaker Soon-Mi Yoo made three a cottage industry.” Directed by Tom Mc- kids to watch their home movies as training visits to the country, stitching together her Carthy, the film reveals an institutional reels for new massacres. Their current target footage with ample chunks of North Korean conspiracy that protected predators and is Dylan (Robert Sloan), a shy boy living with film and TV productions to offer here a perpetuated their heinous behavior, mov- his mother Courtney (Shannyn Sossamon) startling view of a nation that seems to exist ing priests from parish to parish, a process and more extroverted twin brother in an in a parallel universe. Thanks to the oddball gradually revealed by wary lawyer Mitchell abandoned Illinois farmhouse (after they Kim dynasty that has ruled North Korea since Garabedian (Stanley Tucci), who steers the fled an abusive husband/father). The house its creation in the aftermath of World War team in the right direction once he realizes happens to be adjacent to a decrepit church II, the country appears stuck in an endless their serious intent. A compelling drama where the spirits of Bughuul and his child rehash of Cold War battles. Popular culture that illuminates a timely, still-relevant is- minions now reside. Dylan is apparently be- and museums obsess over the invasion by the sue, this is highly recommended. Editor’s ing primed to kill his mother and brother, but U.S. military during the Korean War, absurdly Choice. (S. Granger)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 36 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Steak (R)evolution ized encounters. Significantly, Sorkin was other low-altitude fixed structures. While HHH1/2 able to interview Jobs’s daughter, who was not he was an engineer at Hughes Aircraft, the Kino Lorber, 112 min., in involved with Isaacson’s book. And it’s Jobs’s outgoing Boenish started filming his own English, French, Italian, and relationship with Lisa (played over the years skydiving, even landing a behind-the- Japanese w/English subtitles, by Makenzie Moss, Ripley Sobo, and Perla scenes role doing aerial footage for John not rated, DVD: $29.95 Haney-Jardine) that serves to humanize him, Frankenheimer’s 1969 parachute drama Distinctly going against particularly after he discovers that his chief The Gypsy Moths. Later, Boenish specialized the contemporary grain of engineer, Andy Hertzfeld (Michael Stuhl- in freefalling cinematography, capturing documentaries on health-conscious/plant- barg), paid Liza’s Harvard tuition. Unlike amazing (pre-video, pre-GoPro) celluloid of based diets, Gallic filmmaker Franck Ribière’s traditional biography, only patchy mentions skydivers. Boenish met and married Jean— documentary celebrates meat. Declaring that are made here of Jobs’s adoption, childhood portrayed here in period re-enactments by French viande cookery has been hobbled rejection, and pioneering, formative years, first-time director Marah Strauch, niece of by butchers’ preference for lean, well-mus- and the chronology stops before the birth of a BASE enthusiast—who turned out to also cled animals—and by “nutritionists” (hor- the now-ubiquitous iPhone or Jobs’s ill-fated be an adrenaline junkie. That Boenish, who reurs!)—Ribière travels to Brazil, the United battle with cancer. Highly recommended. obsessively filmed/archived all of his antics, States, Canada, Scotland, England, Japan, (S. Granger) isn’t being interviewed here is a rather obvi- Sweden, and Italy in a countdown (not always ous tipoff that something must have gone mathematically sequential) of the top steak- Stonewall HH awry, and we are walked through the 1984 serving restaurants and their techniques. Lionsgate, 129 min., R, DVD: stunt—contrived for a David Frost/Guinness Not surprisingly, a salut goes out to small $19.98 Book TV special—that ended his life. In the family farms, where cattle are fattened and The Greenwich Village aftermath, Jean’s decision to continue to conditioned with the best possible feed, ex- bar where a 1969 anti-ha- BASE jump earned the widow much criti- ercise, and care (until they are slaughtered, of rassment riot turned into cism. An intriguing don’t-try-this-at-home course). A Japanese Kobe beef farmer admits the opening salvo in the biographical documentary, this is recom- that he does massage his animals, but, unlike gay liberation movement mended. (C. Cassady) others, he does not make them drink beer provides the title of Roland Emmerich’s film, (the beasts get too drunk too fast). And the which is ultimately nothing more than an Sweaty Betty HH1/2 revelation of where to find the finest steak in old-fashioned fictional coming-of-age tale set Breaking Glass, 94 min., not the world makes for a worthy climax. Among against the backdrop of that watershed event. rated, DVD: $21.99 authors interviewed are Mark Schatzker and After Danny Winters (Jeremy Irvine), a hand- Likely to tax the patience Rene Laporte, while top chefs visited include some high-school kid in small-town Indiana, of more than a few view- Sébastien Bras and the late Marcos Bassi. A is caught in a compromising situation with ers, Sweaty Betty is a crude, premium entrée for foodies, this is highly the team quarterback, his father—who is also meandering documentary- recommended. (C. Cassady) the homophobic football coach—exiles him style film that nevertheless from the family homestead. Danny heads for carries a certain shambling charm. Semi- Steve Jobs HHH1/2 New York, where he quickly finds himself on improvised, the movie takes place on a Universal, 123 min., R, DVD: Christopher Street, center of the city’s gay warm day on the edges of Washington D.C., $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: subculture. Totally looking the part of the where two single dads, Rico (Rico Mitchell) $34.98 straight-arrow stud, Danny falls in with a and Scooby (Seth Dubose), talk about being In 1984, Apple co-found- crowd of high-spirited locals, most notably responsible and plot out their morning and er Steve Jobs (Michael Ray, aka Ramona (Jonny Beauchamp), a afternoon with their young children. After Fassbender) unveils the reedy, androgynous extrovert who takes this protracted material is over, the fun Macintosh, changing the Danny under his infatuated wing. But Danny begins with the introduction of Charlotte, computer world forever. But behind the also catches the eye of Trevor (Jonathan a 1,000-pound sow who is a fixture in the scenes, turmoil reigns. Jobs’s friend/collabo- Rhys Meyers), a straitlaced member of the neighborhood, wandering where she will and rator Steve Wozniak (Seth Rogen) and CEO Mattachine Society, who encourages him to used as a public attraction by her well-mean- John Sculley (Jeff Daniels) both have serious abandon his colorful new friends and adopt ing owner. With animal-control officers look- issues, while Jobs’s marketing chief—Joanna a more moderate approach to effecting so- ing unhappy, Charlotte swims in creeks and Hoffman (Kate Winslet)—is struggling with cial change. The film predictably becomes a participates in tailgating parties for Redskins monetary demands from Jobs’s ex-girlfriend, struggle for Danny’s soul between the forces games. Rico and Scooby’s tale overlaps with Chrisann Brennan (Katherine Waterston), of militancy and compromise, leading up to Charlotte’s—albeit without much logic—in mother of his illegitimate daughter Lisa. Four the Stonewall riot. While heartfelt, Stonewall a film that carries a mellow, sunny tone. A years later, following his ouster from Apple, is also stilted, cliché-ridden, manipulative, strong optional purchase. (T. Keogh) Jobs arrogantly presents another product and ultimately unworthy of its subject. Op- launch—the NeXT black box, after which he tional, at best. (F. Swietek) Tokyo Fiancée HHH triumphantly returns to Apple, introducing First Run, 100 min., in English, French & Japanese the iMac in 1998. Within this fragmentary Sunshine Superman w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $24.95 “backstage” narrative, Oscar-nominated HHH Based on a semi-autobiographical novel by Fassbender deftly embodies Jobs’s relentless Magnolia, 102 min., PG, DVD: bestselling French-language author Amélie nature, subtly revealing not only how Jobs $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98, Mar. 1 Nothomb, Tokyo Fiancée begins as an engag- views the world through a “reality distor- A CNN-Norwegian co- ing, infectiously happy tale, and ends with tion field,” but also how he ruthlessly bullies production, Sunshine Super- its central character being far more somber, those around him. Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin man looks back on the life if also wiser. Strategically set in 2011 be- and director Danny Boyle together create a and legacy of extreme sports fore a major historical event, this tale of a complex, dialogue-driven character study, figure Carl Boenish, a skydiver who invented young woman who finds some missing part based on Walter Isaacson’s bestselling 2011 the dangerous feat of BASE jumping—i.e., of her identity by immersing herself in a biography, coupled with obviously fictional- leaps from cliff faces, towers, skyscrapers and foreign culture stars Pauline Etienne as 20-

MARCH/APRIL 2016 37 VIDEO LIBRARIAN year-old Amélie, a pixie-ish, also an Olympics-level sport not meant for wife (Diane Lane) and activist daughter (Elle French-language Belgian ordinary mortals—it can leave your head Fanning). The strong ensemble cast also in- tutor born in Tokyo who is spinning, although it also looks as if it could cludes comedian Louis C.K. as cynical Arlen now returning as an ardent put your eye out. The subjects of this docu- Hird (a composite of several screenwriters), Japanophile. Hooked on the mentary are both ordinary and remarkable: Michael Stuhlbarg as enigmatic Edward G. country’s glitzy zeitgeist and American teens studying for the SAT, who Robinson, and Dean O’Gorman as outspoken youth culture, Amélie slow- consult with their guidance counselor at Kirk Douglas. Along the way, director Jay ly learns of much deeper school, and try to make time for friends in Roach astutely utilizes archival footage and traditions and complexities their busy schedules, which include up to six re-creates newsreels while illuminating one when she falls for handsome student Rinri hours a day rigorously practicing table ten- of the most shameful periods in Hollywood (Taichi Inoue). Initially giddy over their new nis, in preparation for various pre-qualifying history. Highly recommended. (S. Granger) relationship, Amélie eventually realizes that competitions for making the U.S. Olympics Rinri—like many Japanese men—is slow team in 2012. Directors Sara Newens and Truth HHHH to fully reveal his inner self. Writer-direc- Mina T. Son focus on three kids—Michael Sony, 125 min., R, DVD: tor Stefan Liberski does a masterful job of Landers, Lily Zhang, and Ariel Hsing—who $26.99, Blu-ray: $34.99 modulating the film’s energy, from an initial carry an enormous weight of expectation Truth examines the playfulness and joy to a far heavier sense of on their young shoulders. Viewers witness scandal that erupted after polarization that is made far worse by the the passionate involvement of parents and CBS Nightly News anchor Fukushima disaster. Etienne and Inoue are coaches, as well as Bill Gates and Warren Dan Rather ran a 60 Min- both very good as budding adults who have Buffett, who turn up in a comical moment utes segment asserting that yet to find their bearings in a world of hard of support. The action in Top Spin is sizzling, President George W. Bush used family distinctions and consequences. Recom- featuring lightning-fast exchanges between connections to avoid Vietnam combat and mended. (T. Keogh) competitors that look unearthly. But in the never fulfilled his Texas Air National Guard end, table tennis is all too human, and the obligations. If this report had not been dis- Tokyo Tribe HH1/2 final lesson from competing is that success credited, it might conceivably have tipped the XLrator, 117 min., in Japanese can be defined in different ways, from ful- 2004 Presidential election to Democrat John w/English subtitles, not rated, fillment, to peace of mind, to finding new Kerry. When I was studying journalism under DVD: $14.99, Blu-ray: $20.99 dreams. An engaging sports documentary, Pierre Salinger, he insisted that controversial Adapted from a graphic this is recommended. (T. Keogh) stories be corroborated by two independent novel series, Japanese cult sources. But what if those sources lie? This is director Sion Sono’s Tokyo Trumbo HHH1/2 exactly what happened to Mary Mapes (Cate Tribe is a gang war thriller Universal, 125 min., R, DVD: Blanchett), Rather’s (Robert Redford) long- set in an alternate future as a hip-hopera $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98, time producer. Responsible for finding and musical. It opens with a rapping narrator In the late 1940s and scrutinizing stories, Mapes is curious about delivering exposition on a busy, stylized early ‘50s, Hollywood was the Bush allegations, and—encouraged by studio street set—Tokyo, divided into districts terrorized by Sen. Joseph CBS News president Andrew Heyward (Bruce run by different gangs in a wary state of dé- McCarthy and his House Greenwood)—she assembles an investigative tente—and never leaves the perpetual night Un-American Activities team (Dennis Quaid, Elisabeth Moss, Topher of this studio-created city. Each gang sports Committee (HUAC). Encouraged by judg- Grace). Rushed due to an early air-date, its own tribal look and has its own district mental patriot John Wayne (David James their reporting—which may have been ac- but the peace is broken when a Yakuza-like Elliott) and vicious gossip columnist Hedda curate—nevertheless contains journalistic faction led by the bloodthirsty and perverted Hopper (Helen Mirren), HUAC—chaired by flaws and relies on an erratic source (Stacy Lord Buppa (played by cult actor Riki Takeu- J. Parnell Thomas (James DuMont)—subpoe- Keach). Even today, basic questions have still chi) decides to wipe out every other gang and naed “suspicious” citizens, asking them: “Are not been answered: namely, how did Bush get take over Tokyo for himself and his decadent you now or have you ever been a member into the Guard and why was he excused from son (who forces captives to serve as living of the Communist Party?” A primary target duty? Based on Mapes’s 2005 book Truth and furniture). Also on hand are a beat-boxing was Hollywood’s highest-paid screenwriter, Duty: The Press, The President, and the Privilege personal servant, a pair of kung-fu siblings, Dalton Trumbo (Bryan Cranston), whose of Power, filmmaker James Vanderbilt’sTruth references to Scarface, Bruce Lee, and Kill mockery of the committee landed him in offers a layered and detailed condemnation Bill, and the most literal use of penis envy jail, convicted of contempt of Congress. of contemporary journalism, illustrating how as motivation I’ve ever witnessed in a film. Trumbo led the “Hollywood Ten,” who found Internet obsession with minutia/gossip has Packed with movement and color, Tokyo Tribe themselves blacklisted, unable to work. While often obscured the bigger picture. Highly is a big, busy mess that is more overwhelming others fled overseas, Trumbo refused to leave. recommended. Editor’s Choice. (S. Granger) than thrilling or engaging, featuring extreme Instead, he adopted pseudonyms while writ- violence and purely gratuitous nudity. Which ing scripts that included Roman Holiday and Uncle John HHH is not to say that it isn’t often entertaining—it The Brave One, both of which won Oscars Kino Lorber, 114 min., not is. A strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) for Best Original Screenplay. While most of rated, DVD: $24.95 Trumbo’s work was for schlocky B-picture Although John Ashton Top Spin HHH mogul Frank King (John Goodman), even- is best known for support- First Run, 81 min., not rated, tually Stanley Kubrick and Otto Preminger ing turns in ‘80s action DVD: $24.95 would give Trumbo credit for Spartacus and comedies like Beverly Hills Ping pong is a game you Exodus, respectively. Habitually writing in the Cop, he’s enjoyed a career in play with your cousins at bathtub with a long-stemmed cigarette holder movies and TV for more than 40 years, and bi-annual family reunions, clenched between his teeth and a tumbler has the rare opportunity to shine in a lead or during beery evenings of Scotch at his side, Trumbo—with Oscar- role in this odd but fascinating combination at the corner tavern. Table nominee Cranston superb as the highly- of melodrama and romantic comedy from tennis might be a fancier name, but it is principled idealist—is supported by his loyal director Steven Piet. Ashton is excellent as

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For more information please contact Richard Ross at [email protected] Visit us at bgpics.com John, an aging handyman liked by everybody strong, erratic Dany (Kostas Nikouli), a gay that offers an empathetic meditation on the in his small Wisconsin town. But John might teen whose dissolute Albanian mother has human spirit. Recommended. (S. Granger) have killed a fellow named Dutch (Laurent just died. Living in Crete, Dany sets off to Soucie), a bully who had recently turned find his older brother, Ody—short for Odys- over a new leaf and begun confessing his seus (Nikos Gelia)—in Athens to give him Classic Films past misdeeds. Dutch’s angry brother, Danny the bad news. Their dysfunctional mother (Ronnie Gene Blevins), certainly begins to failed to secure the boys’ legal residency in Burroughs: The Movie suspect that John is responsible for Dutch’s the country, and with their Greek father HHH disappearance. That story, however, alternates long since vanished, Ody and Dany are es- Criterion, 90 min., not rated, with another that initially seems entirely sentially stateless. Together, the pair embark DVD: 2 discs, $29.95; Blu-ray: separate—a good-natured romance between on a journey to find their father, hoping to $39.95 Ben (Alex Moffat) and Kate (Jenna Lyng), co- make him acknowledge their existence and Beat Generation author workers at a Chicago graphics firm. The two give them money and resources. Along the William S. Burroughs (1914- narrative strands come together when the way, the siblings run into problems with both 1997) was a lifelong drug young couple decides to visit the uncle who the police and Greek nationalists who assault addict who incorporated his own experi- brought Ben up—John. And during their stay, non-Greeks in the streets. Dany, while char- ences and drug-induced visions into his work, Danny decides it’s time to take his vengeance ismatic, proves even more unstable when he which included underground classics such on the man he believes killed his brother. A gets hold of a gun, and his relationship with a as Junkie and Naked Lunch (the latter adapted slow-burning thriller that ultimately pays off pet rabbit proves to be not quite what it seems into a film by David Cronenberg). When in unexpected ways, this is recommended. (the rabbit later shows up as a talking giant filmmaker Howard Brookner released this (F. Swietek) in a couple of magical-realism scenes). Along documentary in 1983, following five years the way, there are beautiful moments, such of conducting interviews with Burroughs and Unleashed! A Dog as a wondrous sequence in which a sleeping various friends, colleagues, and fans (includ- Dancing Story HHH Dany and Ody float downriver on a stolen ing Allen Ginsberg, Terry Southern, and Patti Virgil, 81 min., not rated, boat, witnessed by every kind of fairy-tale Smith), Burroughs’s legacy was in the midst DVD: $19.99 forest creature. All of this points toward a of a resurgence. Burroughs himself dominates The synopsis of Un- confrontation between the brothers and a and shapes this film with his sardonic com- leashed! A Dog Dancing Story man who may or may not be their father. mentary, reading excerpts of his work and reads like it was ripped di- Recommended. (T. Keogh) even acting out scenes from his novels in odd rectly from the Christopher mini-movies—all with his distinctive nasal Guest playbook. Filmmaker Justin Turcotte’s Youth HHH drone and deadpan expression (which bring spirited Canadian documentary follows an Fox, 124 min., R, Blu-ray: an oddly animated quality to his delivery). amateur dog dancing company from British $39.99, Mar. 1 Burroughs is more memoir than biography, Columbia that is headed up by a self-styled Italian director Paolo which is both the film’s strength and weak- theatre director, as they attempt to mount Sorrentino’s Youth, set in ness—emerging as a rare literary documen- an elaborate musical production that melds a sumptuous Alpine spa, tary in which the indulged subject works canine choreography with indoor kite flying. serves up a rambling tale very closely with the filmmaker. Burroughs’s Yes, that’s correct: dogs dancing on stage revolving around Fred Ballinger (Michael first-person account provides insight into the with their handlers…surrounded by kite fli- Caine), a retired British composer/con- artist and his life, including an account of ers. The film charts the two-year process of ductor, and his longtime pal, American his homosexual experiences that made him prepping the show for the stage, interweaving screenwriter/director Mick Boyle (Harvey an early outspoken queer icon, a figure who behind-the-scenes drama with the stories of Keitel). Fred is accompanied by his neurotic defied the gay stereotypes of the era. Released the dog dancers, most of whom discovered daughter, Lena (Rachel Weisz), while Mick to art cinemas in 1983, Burroughs was then the activity in retirement. Dog dancing is struggles with his next script, attended lost for decades until it was rediscovered, a serious pastime for its participants, many by several sycophants. Relationships get restored, and re-released theatrically in 2014. of whom have invested years of their lives strained when Lena’s feckless husband (Ed Shot on 16mm, the film’s coarse visual quality training their dogs to dance with them. The Stoppard), who happens to be Mick’s son, is preserved in this digital restoration, and is documentary presents its subject with due leaves her for sexy British pop star Paloma presented with extras including audio com- respect and no condescension, although Faith (playing herself). As Fred and Mick mentary by filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, new the machinations behind the stage produc- playfully ponder their prostates, respective and archival interviews, outtakes, footage tion—a bizarre, costumed Lord of the Rings-ish legacies, and womanizing pasts, they are sur- from the 2014 premiere of the film’s restora- fantasy epic—do devolve into unintended rounded by attentive staff and other guests, tion, and a short experimental 1981 edit of comedy on occasion as the players and their including a self-absorbed actor (Paul Dano), the film. Recommended. S.( Axmaker) dogs learn moves while under the gun. A an obese former soccer star (Roly Serrano), a heartening film that shines a spotlight on the lovelorn mountaineering instructor (Robert Chaplin’s Essanay love and intimate bonds that allow a unique Seethaler), and voluptuous Miss Universe Comedies 1915 HHH1/2 group of owners and their pets to move as (Madalina Ghenea), who strolls around Flicker Alley, 5 discs, 405 min., one, this is recommended. (P. Morehart) unabashedly in the nude. When Queen not rated, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: Elizabeth II’s emissary (Alex Macqueen) ar- $59.95 Xenia HHH rives to invite Fred to conduct a Royal Con- In 1914, Charlie Chaplin Strand, 128 min., in Greek cert of an early composition, the summons was lured away from Key- w/English subtitles, not rated, triggers melancholy memories. And then stone Studios by Essanay DVD: $27.99 Mick is stunned by a disquieting visit from with a huge increase in salary and the A big hit on the film fes- his eccentric, bitter cinematic muse, Brenda promise of creative freedom. Chaplin made tival circuit, Greek director (Jane Fonda). Caine and Keitel deliver subtle, the most of it with 14 official (and one unof- Panos H. Koutras’s drama multi-layered performances—among the ficial) short films produced in 1915. The early Xenia centers on head- best of their respective careers—in this film films His( New Job and A Night Out with Ben

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 40 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Turpin; The Champion and In the Park with A Child Is Waiting Waiting remains a fascinating entry in the Edna Purviance, his leading lady in all sub- HHH auteur’s fi lmography. Extras include an audio sequent shorts) are steeped in the Keystone Kino Lorber, 102 min., not commentary by fi lm historian Tom Charity. tradition of pratfalls and well-placed kicks rated, DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: Recommended. (P. Morehart) to the rear end, but you can see the Tramp $29.95 persona develop through the films and John Cassavetes was one Comin’ at Ya! HH1/2 mature in The Tramp and The Bank, which of the pioneers of Ameri- MVD Entertainment Group, 91 combine pathos and slapstick in a manner can independent cinema, min., R, DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: that defi nes Chaplin’s greatest comedies. directing important, emotionally-charged, $24.95 By the end of his stint at Essanay, Chaplin impeccably-acted fi lms on limited budgets The 3D format was a half- is in top form with Shanghaied, a stowaway outside of the mainstream studio system. forgotten novelty by the farce on a boat; A Night at the Show, play- That said, Cassavetes also worked within the time this 1981 low-bud- ing both a drunk dandy and a working system both as an actor and director (using get Western resurrected it, class rube wreaking havoc at a vaudeville the money to fi nance personal projects), serv- achieving surprising box offi ce success. But show; A Burlesque on Carmen, which spoofs ing as director on 1963’s A Child Is Waiting, while the fi lm deserves credit for restoring the classic opera; and Police, in which the a sober drama with an impressive pedigree the reputation of then-much-maligned 3D, Tramp leaves prison to enter a world of that included Stanley Kramer as producer Comin’ at Ya! is not exactly classic cinema. rampant poverty and crime (portrayed by and Abby Mann as screenwriter, along with The brainchild of two spaghetti Western Chaplin with a cynical, satiric eye—yet stars Judy Garland and Burt Lancaster. Gar- veterans—director Ferdinando Baldi and also heartened with hope). This collection land plays Jean Hansen, a new hire at an actor/producer Tony Anthony—the story of newly restored films not only shows institution for mentally disabled children, follows newly married H.H. Hart (Anthony), Chaplin’s evolution as a performer and a who clashes with the institution’s head, Dr, whose bride has been kidnapped by a pair of filmmaker during his greatest period of Matthew Clark (Lancaster), over the treat- criminal brothers operating a white slavery growth but also represents a vital chapter ment of a particular child. The fi lm could business. Hart embarks on a quest to fi nd his in the development of silent comedy and have slipped into obscurity as just another kidnapped wife, which involves the usual film history. Extras include the bonus standard social issue melodrama, but the amount of B-Western mayhem. Through- shorts Triple Trouble and A Night Out (both acting lifts the material, and Cassavetes’s out, the viewer is assaulted with an endless constructed from Chaplin outtakes), and a preference for improvised performances stream of objects that are thrust directly at booklet with behind-the-scenes images and brings a realism that would have been lost in the camera: coins, a yo-yo, a bowling ball, an essay by fi lm historian Jeffrey Vance. rote line readings. Clashes with Kramer led a snake, fl ames, and even a bare-bottomed Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) Cassavetes to disown the fi lm, but A Child Is baby—all meant to exploit the 3D experi-

A worldwide distributor of compelling star-hosted Documentaries. For DVD sales contact Cinema Libre (www.cinemalibrestudio.com) Educators please contact: [email protected] for university pricing, screenings, study guide and speaking engagments.

THE MAJESTIC LIFE OF PRINCES BREATH OF LIFE STICKY: QUEEN ELIZABETH II OF THE PALACE In Celebration of Earth Day A (SELF) LOVE STORY In Celebration of her 90th Birthday THEMES/ STUDIES THEMES/ STUDIES THEMES/ STUDIES THEMES/ STUDIES History, Royalty, English Empire, Ecology, Sustainability, Environment, Sex Education, Social Sciences, History, Royalty, English Empire, European History Climate Change, Biology, Agriculture Political Science, Biology European History VF-1033 UPC# 881394122420 DVD VF-1032 UPC# 881394122321 SRP: $19.95, PPR: $149.00, 70 Min DVD VF-1028 UPC# 818522012124, SRP: $19.95 SRP: $19.95, PPR: $299.00, 70 Min VF-1016 UPC# 818522011738 BLU-RAY VF-1029 UPC# 818522012131, SRP: SRP: $19.95, PPR: $249.00, 90 Min STREET DATE: 2/2/16 $29.95, PPR: $299.00 w/ study guide, 83 Min STREET DATE: 2/2/16 • STUDY GUIDE AVAILABLE STREET DATE: 5/19/15 STREET DATE: 6/2/15

MARCH/APRIL 2016 41 VIDEO LIBRARIAN ence. But what might be amusing for a few shady Southern California realtor who is that he has wasted his life keeping busy in minutes eventually becomes something of an shaken by a diagnosis of a leukemia-type a largely meaningless job. After 25 years of endurance test—a particularly pointless one terminal illness. Given mere months to live, a punctuality and impersonal interactions for those who watch the 2D DVD release. The panicked Sonny awkwardly turns to religion, with a staff who think of him as a dull, emo- 3D Blu-ray (featuring a frame by frame digital sex (Reynolds’ real-life then-girlfriend Sally tionless functionary (one young employee conversion of the polarized over-and-under Field portrays the anti-hero’s cat-hoarding nicknames him “The Mummy”), Watanabe format of the original 3D release) at least mistress) and, finally, attempted suicide. suddenly drops out, trying to deaden the showcases the film’s chief claim to fame, but The latter antic lands him in a mental fear though drinking and clubbing, and viewers will need to have a 3D TV to enjoy hospital, where Sonny finds a sympathetic then becomes inspired to accomplish some- it. Optional. (P. Hall) but bumbling loon (Dom DeLuise) willing thing meaningful during his final days. The to murder him. Lots of familiar faces (Carl film is split into two parts, with the second Deep in My Heart HHH Reiner, Myrna Loy, Norman Fell, Joanne jumping ahead to Watanabe’s wake, where Warner, 132 min., not rated, Woodward, Kristy McNichol, Robby Benson) co-workers toast the man and a memorable Blu-ray: $21.99 drift through this sketch-like scenario, at late-life achievement. Flashbacks punctu- MGM was the king of least giving this aimless farce some nostalgic ate the narrative, ranging from Watanabe’s movie musicals during the value. Optional. (C. Cassady) memories of how he reached his current 1940s and 1950s and one state of apathy, to co-workers recalling the of their specialties was the Ghost Story HH sudden passion and humility of Watanabe’s musical biopic celebrating Scream Factory, 110 min., R, last months. Presented with a new restored great songwriters, a formula that guaranteed Blu-ray: $29.99 digital transfer, extras include audio com- an excellent soundtrack and all of the pro- Based on the 1979 mentary by film critic Stephen Prince, and duction numbers that could be squeezed in. bestselling novel by Peter two documentaries on Kurosawa. A beauti- After tackling the likes of George M. Cohan Straub, 1981’s Ghost Story ful, touching film that is one of Kurosawa’s (Yankee Doodle Dandy) and Rodgers and Hart shines a spotlight on famed best-loved, this is highly recommended. (Words and Music), MGM turned to Sigmund movie stars Fred Astaire, Melvyn Douglas, (S. Axmaker) Romberg—a classically-trained composer Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., and John Houseman, who became a success composing songs playing old friends who gather to tell each Julien Duvivier in the for Broadway musical revues and operettas other ghost stories—until a specter from their Thirties HHH produced by the Shubert brothers—for this past comes into their lives. They are haunted Criterion, 4 discs, 410 min., in highly fictionalized portrait. Jose Ferrer—not by a young woman (Alice Krige) who first French w/English subtitles, not known for comedy or singing—acquits him- targets the sons of Douglas, and then the rated, DVD: $59.95 self well as the Hungarian-born but Ameri- elderly gents themselves, taking vengeance Julien Duvivier was once can-raised Romberg, displaying uncharacter- for a horrible crime that they committed and a giant of French cinema istic energy and comic chops when he does covered up decades before. Fittingly, much of but his reputation declined an entire show in digest form, performing the film takes place in flashbacks, as stories late in his career. This boxed set of four all of the parts (singing and dancing) and told to one another after a surviving son standout films that Duvivier made with even providing pratfalls. The romanticized (Craig Wasson) appears with his own story actor Harry Baur shows he was a versatile story, however, is basically just a framework of a fiancée with a cold heart. Director John filmmaker who found innovative and ex- for Romberg’s songs from shows such as Irvin creates a handsome film set in a snowy pressive ways to tell moving and entertain- Maytime, The Student Prince, and The New New England winter that could be a Christ- ing stories. David Golder (1930)—a drama Moon, many of which are performed in color- mas card cover (thanks to Oscar-winning about a ruthless banker with a spoiled ful production numbers by MGM’s stable of cinematographer Jack Cardiff), and the four family—is Duvivier’s debut sound film, musical stars, including Rosemary Clooney, Hollywood veterans bring a touch of class to and he creatively uses the new cinematic Jane Powell, Vic Damone, Ann Miller, Cyd their performances. But the long flashbacks dimension right from the opening scenes. Charisse, Howard Keel, Tony Martin, and drag on, dissipating the narrative’s mystery Poil de Carotte (1932), which translates to Gene Kelly (appearing with his brother Fred and suspense. And while it does play mostly “Carrot Top,” mixes comedy and tragedy to Kelly in the latter’s only credited film role). like an old-fashioned horror film, there are tell the story of a sweet, imaginative young Although it doesn’t rank among the great brief moments of gruesome special effects boy whose generous spirit is constantly MGM musicals, this one is snappy and fun (such as a beautiful woman suddenly becom- smothered by a neglectful family. La Tete (thanks in part to director Stanley Donen) ing a rotting corpse). Extras include audio d’un Homme (1933) stars Baur as Georges and features 22 classic songs, along with a commentary by Irvin, and cast and crew Simenon’s Inspector Maigret in an inven- great cast. Extras include outtakes from three interviews. Optional. (S. Axmaker) tively-directed mystery that is part police unused songs, plus the 1954 Oscar-nominated procedural and part battle of wits with an short The Strauss Fantasy, and an archival HHH1/2 arrogant young killer. Finally, Un Carnet de cartoon. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) Ikiru Criterion, 143 min., in Bal (1937), the tale of a recently widowed Japanese w/English subtitles, heiress who tracks down the young men who The End HH not rated, DVD: 2 discs, courted her 20 years ago at her first society Olive, 101 min., R, Blu-ray: $29.95; Blu-ray: $39.95 ball, is one of the director’s most beloved $29.95 Ikiru, which translates as films, serving up a melancholy meditation At the height of his Hol- “To Live,” is one of legend- on memory, loss, and disappointment (along lywood stardom in 1978, ary Japanese filmmaker with Baur, it also features French greats Burt Reynolds directed and Akira Kurosawa’s most emotionally power- Fernandel, Louis Jouvet, and Raimu). These starred in this atypical gal- ful and intimate dramas. Takashi Shimura black-and-white films show some signs of lows sitcom-style movie. (the lead samurai in Seven Samurai) stars as wear and damage, but all have been well- The result, unfortunately, is more of the Kanji Watanabe, a widower single father mastered from archival sources. Part of the funny-peculiar kind than funny-ha-ha. and political bureaucrat who discovers Criterion Collection’s extra-less Eclipse line, Reynolds stars as Sonny, a philandering, that he has stomach cancer and realizes this set is recommended. (S. Axmaker)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 42 MARCH/APRIL 2016

BOXING GIRLS OF KABUL BOXING GIRLS OF KABUL Lost Lost Lost & Walden: Liberi in Libertà, which is essentially a long play during a two-week summer vacation Two Diary Films by Jonas monologue by Gioli with illustrative film with her recently divorced older cousin clips; Paolo Vampa and Giovanni Cappello’s Marion (Arielle Dombasle, a vivacious blonde Mekas HHH Rosso di Landi, in which Gioli replicates goddess). Marion’s smitten ex-lover Pierre Kino Lorber, 2 discs, 350 min., experiments from Polaroid founder Edwin not rated, Blu-ray: $44.95 (Pascal Greggory) turns aggressive with jeal- Land that formed the basis of his theories ousy when smooth, seductive, and happily This compilation offers on color vision; and a lavishly illustrated shallow writer Henri (Féodor Atkine) wins the a very generous introduction to the work booklet. Recommended. (F. Swietek) fancy of the “perfect” Marion while continu- of Jonas Mekas, one of the most important ing to fool around on the side. The tangled figures in the American experimental film Passage to Marseilles affairs, mistaken identities, and white lies are scene, who wrote about cinema in media HHH the stuff of sex farce, but Rohmer—true to outlets such as The Village Voice during the form—doesn’t judge, remaining more inter- 1960s and in 1964 co-founded the Film- Warner, 109 min., not rated, Blu-ray: $21.99 ested in the follies of love and the impulsive, makers’ Cinemathèque, forerunner of New illogical workings of human nature. Rohmer York’s Anthology Film Archives—a major Humphrey Bogart head- lines this 1944 wartime deftly crafts a gentle and sexy human comedy repository of avant-garde films. Mekas also in which Pauline may learn the right lessons began making films of his own, including drama, reuniting with his Casablanca director Michael Curtiz and after all. Extras include a 1996 interview with brief autobiographical entries for a series he Rohmer. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) dubbed “Diaries, Notes and Sketches,” which costars Claude Rains, Sydney Greenstreet, and Peter Lorre in a production that packs he collected into compilations called “Diary HHH Films.” Two of these form the bulk of this several genres into a single film. Opening on Pitfall an Air Force squadron of Free French fighters Kino Lorber, 86 min., not rated, set: Walden (1969) covers the years 1964-68 DVD: $17.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 in roughly chronological order and includes hidden in the countryside, Passage to Mar- Dick Powell, a light ro- shots of family celebrations and encounters seilles segues into a sea drama, a prison escape mantic leading man of nu- with a wide variety of notables; Lost Lost Lost thriller, a war movie, and even features a deck merous 1930s musicals, re- (1976) collects material from Mekas’s experi- brawl that echoes a pirate clash, all nestled defined himself in the 1940s ences with his younger brother Adolfas in into the main storyline through flashbacks and plot twists. Bogart’s story takes him as a weary, witty tough guy the ‘50s and early ‘60s as they settled first in a series of lean crime thrillers that we now into a Lithuanian community in Brooklyn, to pre-war Marseilles, where his crusading newspaper publisher is framed for murder by call (in hindsight) film noir. In fact, the genre then moved to the East Village, and finally was such a good fit that Powell decided to decamped to Vermont for a film project. the Fascists, and to Devil’s Island where he meets his fellow patriots. This is shameless develop his own projects. The 1948 filmPitfall Walden has been available previously on was the first of his independently produced DVD before (see review in VL-11/09), but Lost wartime propaganda, a rousing call to arms to free Europe from the Nazis and turncoat features and one of the most adult and un- Lost Lost is making its premiere on disc. The derappreciated film noir entries. Powell stars impressive extras include audio commentary collaborators (all presented as martinets with Fascist sympathies), but it is also action- as middle-class insurance man John Forbes, on both films by Mekas, six of Mekas’s short packed and enormously entertaining. And a white-collar husband and father living in films, and Gideon Bachmann’sJonas (1968), Curtiz and cinematographer James Wong suburbia who is bored with the routine of his in which Mekas walks around the city and Howe beautifully create the locations—from life. Forbes winds up in what looks like an talks about filmmaking, as well as a booklet Devil’s Island to a cargo freighter on the high affair with a model (smoky-voiced Lizabeth with an essay by film critic Ed Halter. Recom- seas—entirely in the studio. Extras include Scott) who received stolen property from an mended. (F. Swietek) the Oscar-nominated short “Jammin’ the embezzling banker. Afternoon meetings in Blues” featuring Lester Young, a “Night at dive bars ensue, as do fights with a seedy pri- Paolo Gioli: The the Movies” collection (featuring a newsreel, vate detective (Raymond Burr at his sleaziest) Complete Filmworks short subject, cartoon, and trailers from who becomes obsessed with the model, and HH1/2 1944), and a Warner Bros. studio blooper the shadows of Forbes’s city sins follow him Raro, 3 discs, 561 min., in reel. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) home. Director André De Toth, who brought Italian w/English subtitles, not a hard edge to his work, focuses here more rated, DVD: $29.95 Pauline at the Beach on consequences and responsibility than the The work of Paolo Gioli, HHH spectacle of violence. And while some scenes a septuagenarian Italian Kino Lorber, 94 min., in French play out memorably in the dark of night— experimental filmmaker, is in some respects w/English subtitles, R, DVD: with slashes of light picking the players out comparable to that of Stan Brakhage and $19.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 of the shadows as in any great noir—much Bill Morrison in its use of distressed foot- After completing his “Six of the film takes place in the light of day in age, montages of archival clips, artwork, Moral Tales” series (plus a familiar settings: home, office, and the busy animated images, and splashes of moving pair of literary period piec- streets of Los Angeles, placing the drama in patterns across the screen. But his work is es), French filmmaker Éric Rohmer embarked the world of everyday people. Extras include also different enough to present a distinctive on “Comedies and Proverbs,” a set of female- an audio commentary by film noir historian voice, and this collection offers an excellent driven romantic comedies featuring head- Eddie Muller. A rediscovered classic recently introduction, compiling all 38 of Gioli’s strong characters, mismatched couples, and restored by UCLA Film & Television Archive films (varying from three to 42 minutes in crisscrossing plots characteristic of Shake- and The Film Noir Foundation, this is recom- length) dating from 1969 to 2013. The films spearean farce. While many of Rohmer’s mended. (S. Axmaker) are divided into nine categories representing films could be described as intellectual sex different techniques—one grouping includes comedies without the sex, Pauline at the Beach Speedy HHH three hand-painted animated films, another (1983) embraces the earthy passion of sexual Criterion, 86 min., not rated, DVD: 2 discs, consists of compilations of found footage, a play as seen from the perspective of 15-year- $29.95; Blu-ray: $39.95 third utilizes stroboscopic technology, and so old Pauline (Amanda Langlet), who gets an Harold Lloyd was the modern urban young forth. Extras include Patrick A. Rumble’s Film eye-opening lesson in the games grown-ups man of silent movie comedy, a smart-aleck

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 46 MARCH/APRIL 2016 with a spirited personal- Bruce Goldstein and Turner Classic Movies’ tale, but while the cast also includes such ity and wily ingenuity that Scott McGee, a retrospective featurette, Lloyd stalwarts as Sebastian Cabot, Brett Halsey, constantly landed him in home movies, the newly restored 1919 Lloyd Richard Denning, and Beverly Garland, the trouble but also helped him two-reeler “Bumping into Broadway,” and direction by Sidney Salkow is plodding, and through seemingly insur- archival footage of Ruth. A fi ne classic silent the threadbare production values are only mountable challenges. In comedy, this is recommended. (S. Axmaker) negatively accentuated by the luridly colorful Speedy, his fi nal silent fi lm, cinematography (the collapse of the house in Lloyd faces the task of sav- Twice Told Tales HH Gables is laughably chintzy, with the same ing his sweetheart’s crusty old grandfather’s Kino Lorber, 120 min., not papier-mâché pillar repeatedly falling down). streetcar line from unscrupulous business- rated, DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: Extras include a pedantic audio commentary men. Lloyd plays Harold “Speedy” Swift, a $29.95 by fi lm historians Richard Harland Smith and spirited New Yorker who sabotages his big The success of American Perry Martin, and an interview with fi lm- ideas and grand dreams with his passion for International’s string of maker Mick Garris. Not a necessary purchase. baseball—until he’s called to drive a horse- Edgar Allan Poe-inspired (F. Swietek) drawn streetcar across New York City, a se- movies starring Vincent quence that features Lloyd’s trademark stunt Price in the early 1960s led to this 1963 at- The Undesirable HH1/2 comedy as he dodges traffi c, electric street- tempt to repeat the formula using stories by Olive, 66 min., not rated, DVD: cars, and bystanders. Lloyd shot key scenes Nathaniel Hawthorne. Twice Told Tales is an $24.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 on location, including a trip to Coney Island anthology very loosely based on three tales, Produced in Hungary where he and his girlfriend (Ann Christy) only one of which—“Dr. Heidegger’s Experi- in 1914, The Undesirable sample the rides and midway attractions. And ment,” a fountain of youth story—actually is the kind of hoary but Babe Ruth plays himself, bouncing around in appeared in the titular Hawthorne collection. lively melodrama readily the back of Lloyd’s taxi cab while rushing to The second, “Rappacini’s Daughter,” centers associated with early cin- make a baseball game on time. Lloyd was a on a botanist who creates poisonous plants ema. Adapted from a stage play, the story careful steward of his fi lms, overseeing all of that affect his daughter’s ability to interact concerns Betty (Lili Berky), a young woman his productions, and here he and director Ted with her suitor, and the third is a much who upon the death of her father learns Wilde keep the aptly-named fi lm running at slimmed-down version of Hawthorne’s novel that he was actually her uncle, a man who a rapid pace that builds towards a climactic The House of the Seven Gables, about a ne’er- adopted Betty after her mother killed her race against time. Presented with a new do-well out to claim the haunted mansion real father—a violent brute. With her entire digital restoration, extras include an audio his family stole from its rightful owners. Price life upended, Betty lands a job as a maid to commentary by New York’s Film Forum’s hams it up mercilessly as the villain in each a rich couple, only to be accused of a crime

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MARCH/APRIL 2016 47 VIDEO LIBRARIAN she didn’t commit, while her mother, freed purchase for more adventurous collections. so), while the scope of the action—featuring after serving a 15-year prison sentence, goes (F. Swietek) a riverboat, a locomotive chase, and an as- off in search of her. The Undesirable serves up sault on Toad Hall by a gang of ill-behaved star-crossed romance, mistaken identity, ar- What Have You Done to weasels—is wide-ranging. Although made rogance, prejudice, and tragedy while on the Solange? HH for kids, this might seem flat and sluggish to way to a happy ending. It’s also utterly silly Arrow, 107 min., in Italian & children raised on Pixar and Disney features, and quite naïve—compared to films being English w/English subtitles, R, but may well appeal to animation buffs and made in the U.S. and Western Europe at the Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $39.95 fans of the Rankin/Bass style. A strong op- time—but still a curious time capsule, as well An Italian thriller set at tional purchase. (S. Axmaker) as one of the first films by Mihály Kertész, a private girls school in who would go to Hollywood and change his Britain where teenage girls are being brutally You Can’t Take It With name to Michael Curtiz, later directing The killed in a sexually violent manner, this cult You HHH Adventures of Robin Hood, Casablanca, and film stars Fabio Testi as Enrico “Henry” Ros- Sony, 126 min., not rated, Blu- Mildred Pierce, among other classics. Long seni, an Italian physical education teacher ray: $19.99 believed lost, a print was discovered in a (engaged in an affair with one of the stu- James Stewart and Jean New York City basement and repatriated to dents) who becomes a prime suspect and is Arthur star in Frank Capra’s Hungary, where it was restored and given a forced to turn detective with his wife (Karin adaptation of the 1937 Pu- superb new musical score by composer Attila Baal) to find the real killer. This 1972 film litzer Prize-winning Broadway play by Moss Pacsay. Although hardly a lost masterpiece, is considered a classic of the Italian horror Hart and George S. Kaufman. The pair make The Undesirable is an interesting artifact from genre known as giallo, which distinctively a delightful romantic couple (and were re- a country whose silent film legacy is not well combined brutal murders (mostly against united in Capra’s next film, Mr. Smith Goes represented. A strong optional purchase. women), mysterious killers (usually in to Washington), while Lionel Barrymore (S. Axmaker) disguise), and (at its best) creatively choreo- costars as Alice Sycamore’s (Arthur) wonder- graphed spectacles of violence. For all the fully eccentric grandfather—the patriarch The Voyeur HH1/2 characteristic sloppiness of the screenplay, of a creative, crazy extended family (which Cult Epics, 104 min., in English this film remains unusual and surprising, includes Ann Miller, Spring Byington, and & Italian w/English subtitles, with some well-directed murder scenes memorable character actors Donald Meek and not rated, Blu-ray: $29.95 and startling imagery. It is also shamelessly Mischa Auer). Stewart plays Tony Kirby, the Falling somewhere be- salacious in its exploitation of girls as sexual son of a businessman (Edward Arnold) who tween soft- and hardcore objects and unsavory in that these minors are refuses to accept these addled free spirits as porn, the movies of prolific assaulted in a vicious, sadistic, and hateful future in-laws. Capra directs the household director Tinto Brass feature plenty of titil- manner by (no spoiler here) an adult male. scenes with high energy, creating spirited lation, but also strive for an arty look. The The film ultimately explains the motivation screwball comedy from their shenanigans, Voyeur (1994) boasts a distinguished pedigree, for this particular brand of murder (which is but he and screenwriter Robert Riskin replace being based on a novel by Alberto Moravia terribly distasteful), but the extreme violence the unhinged anarchy of the play with sen- (the credits make no mention of this fact against young women makes it hard to enjoy. timental Capra-corn. Now, the story turns since the author’s estate deemed the film Extras include an audio commentary by film on a battle of wills between embrace-the unworthy of bearing his name). This adap- critics Alan Jones and Kim Newman, cast moment-everyman Barrymore and bitter tation does retain something of its source’s and crew interviews, and a video essay by king of capitalism Arnold, spending so much main theme of alienation, but mostly it’s giallo expert Michael Mackenzie. Optional. effort hammering home Capra’s own populist concerned with fairly explicit exhibitions (S. Axmaker) point that it misses the spirit of the original of the human anatomy engaged in sexual material. The film won Best Picture and Best activity, some involving obviously artificial The Wind in the Willows Director Oscars in 1938—Capra’s third and enhancement (the Italian penchant for pros- HH final gold statue for directing—and it was a 1/2 popular hit upon release, but it hasn’t aged thetic penises). The story focuses on Eduardo Warner, 95 min., not rated, (Francesco Casale), a literature professor DVD: $17.99 as well as Capra’s superior films, including whose wife Sylvia (Katarina Vasilissa) has It Happened One Night and It’s a Wonderful Produced for TV by Jules Life. Even so, the snappy dialogue, fine cast, left him, although she visits periodically for Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr., amorous interludes. Eduardo watches with and energetic direction still make this an this 1987 animated feature entertaining film, one sure to appeal to fans envy as those around him—his students, is a largely faithful adapta- the general public—enjoy the sensual plea- of classic Hollywood comedies. Extras include tion of Kenneth Grahame’s oft-filmed 1908 audio commentary by Frank Capra Jr. and sures he longs for. Eduardo also spends time classic novel. Charles Nelson Reilly voices the with his wealthy father—bedridden after an author Cathrine Kellison, and a retrospective obsessive Mr. Toad, who is so smitten with featurette. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) accident—who is ministered to by a beauti- the modern new automobile that he keeps ful nurse in ways that reveal the old man’s buying and smashing them with no regards prodigious equipment. In narrative terms, to the consequences, while his friends Ratty The Voyeur is about Eduardo’s struggle to (Roddy McDowall), Moley (Eddie Bracken), Online understand the reason that his wife aban- and the very private Badger (José Ferrer) doned him, but this is mostly an excuse for Visit Video Librarian Online (www. stage a kind of intervention to curb his videolibrarian.com) during March and Brass to serve up shots of breasts, buttocks behavior before it can land him in serious April for DVD/Blu-ray-specific comments and genitalia—albeit presented in gorgeous, trouble…which it finally does. Like most of added to the video movies reviewed here, lush, widescreen color cinematography the Rankin/Bass productions, The Wind in the as well as new reviews, including The 33, complemented by a bubbly music score. Willows features big, broad characterizations, Entertainment, In the Heart of the Sea, Laby- Extras include an interview with Brass, and as well as bouncy (if ultimately unmemo- rinth of Lies, The Letters, The Night Before, a photo gallery. While not for all tastes, The rable) songs, and solid hand-drawn anima- The Peanuts Movie, Secret in Their Eyes, is a solid example of ‘90s art erotica Voyeur tion. The designs of the animal characters Sisters, The Surface, and much more! and should be considered a strong optional are actually quite engaging (the humans less

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 48 MARCH/APRIL 2016 TV on Video 12 Monkeys: Season One for another mystery, while Tuppence, upset Upstairs Downstairs melo- HHH at being left out, follows him to conduct her drama centering on families Universal, 3 discs, 560 min., own investigation. Matthew Steer costars as living on inherited wealth not rated, DVD: $44.98, Blu- Albert, Tommy’s war buddy scientist who and the servants who work ray: $49.98 helps out with forensic work. Christie pur- for them—presenting a por- This new series created ists may object to the comic emphasis and trait of a culture that was for the Syfy channel is built the contrivances tossed into the mysteries, going extinct in the 1920s. on the 1995 sci-fi thriller but the characters are charismatic and fun The series was a phenom- directed by Terry Gilliam that starred Bruce and the shows are filled with marvelous enon in both Britain and Willis as a time-traveler from a post-apoca- 1950s detail. The series was not renewed, the U.S. (where it ranked as the most popu- lyptic future who is trying to stop a plague so—at least for now—this is the complete lar show on PBS), winning multiple Emmy that will wipe out most of humanity. Aaron run. Compiling all six episodes from 2015, Awards and Golden Globes over its first five Stanford plays James Cole, the time-travel- extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, seasons. There exists a kind of nostalgia for ling agent from the future trying to locate an interview with costar Clarke Peters, and a that kind of class system, at least as prac- the origins of the plague, and Amanda Schull photo gallery. Likely to appeal to fans of light ticed by patriarch Lord Grantham (Hugh costars as Dr. Cassandra Railly, a virologist British mysteries, this is a strong optional Bonneville) and his family, notably his more who overcomes her skepticism and becomes purchase. (S. Axmaker) modern-thinking (but still class-conscious) his partner. The series opens much like the daughter Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery), film, with our jittery hero tracking clues and Better Call Saul: Season who are supported by the servants raised in landing in an asylum while trying to discover One HHH this way of life, led by head butler Carson the meaning of the mysterious “Army of the Sony, 3 discs, 470 min., not (Jim Carter). The sixth and final season of 12 Monkeys,” but then expands with new rated, DVD: $55.99, Blu-ray: the series delivers happy endings all around, characters and a complicated conspiracy $65.99 rewarding viewers for their devotion to the involving black ops labs, biological weapons, Bob Odenkirk plays a lives of the wealthy and the service classes an ancient plague, and a mysterious assassin struggling lawyer trying to alike. Tom (Allen Leach) returns to the fam- known as “The Witness” (Tom Noonan) who get both respect and clients ily manor, marriages ensue (both among is determined to unleash a killer virus upon in Albuquerque, NM, in this prequel series to aristocrats and servants), and characters grow the world. 12 Monkeys is part of the new the award-winning Breaking Bad. Before he and learn as they witness the passing of an wave of ambitious Syfy original shows, and was shady lawyer Saul Goodman (Odenkirk), era (one family is forced to sell their manor, it has fun playing with shifting timelines he was actually Jimmy McGill, a con-man (he and the Crawleys open their home to visitors and conundrums, as well as a bleak future earned the nickname Slippin’ Jimmy) who as a fundraiser). And cousin Rose (Lily James) where marauding gangs prey upon survivors cleaned up his act, obtained a law degree comes back for the finale, while Maggie Smith and sabotage the scientists (led by Barbara from a dubious school, and hung out his continues to offer her hilariously withering Sukowa) trying to save the past and change own shingle in a utility closet in the back of a commentary throughout as Violet Crawley, their present. Presenting all 13 episodes from strip mall beauty shop. Better Call Saul—from the Dowager Countess. Compiling all nine the 2015 debut season, extras include deleted Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan—is a dark episodes from 2015 in their original U.K. scenes, a gag reel, cast auditions, and webi- comedy that chronicles Jimmy’s struggles versions, extras include behind-the-scenes sodes. A well-executed series that bowed to as the younger brother of a once successful featurettes. Presenting a satisfying conclu- good reviews and should interest sci-fi fans, and respected lawyer (Michael McKean) who sion to a passionately embraced show, this is this is recommended. (S. Axmaker) is now holed up with a phobia over electri- highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) cal signals. Jimmy chases clients with more Agatha Christie’s bravado than confidence and sees schemes Extant: The Second Partners in Crime backfire terribly before he finally lands a Season HH case that could make his reputation as well as Paramount, 4 discs, 541 min., HH1/2 his fortune. The series also introduces Mike not rated, DVD: $64.99, Blu- Acorn, 2 discs, 335 min., not ray: $76.99 rated, DVD or Blu-ray: $39.99 Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks), the ex-cop who will become our anti-hero’s reliable field In the second (and final) More than 30 years af- man. Odenkirk is a mix of salesmanship and season of this ambitious ter Tommy and Tuppence desperation as Jimmy/Saul, who isn’t taken Beresford—Agatha Chris- sci-fi drama, astronaut Molly Woods (Halle seriously by clients or other lawyers—a man Berry) has learned that her half-alien son tie’s husband-and-wife team of amateur with a needy soul under the pose, who would detectives—first appeared on British TV, the (played by multiple actors as he grows) is a really like to play it straight and prove him- harbinger of Earth’s destruction. Survival characters have been revived for a new series. self. Better Call Saul was nominated for seven Jessica Raine is the adventurous Tuppence, depends on her betraying both him and the Emmy Awards and Odenkirk earned Golden government while also getting caught up in while David Walliams is Tommy. In the Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations. opening episode, the pair are returning from a conspiracy of inhuman origins. In addition Presenting all 10 episodes from the 2015 first to aliens, there are also “humanichs” on the France with a rare queen bee Tommy has season, extras include episode commentaries, purchased to start a beekeeping business. prowl—robots that are indistinguishable behind-the-scenes featurettes, a gag reel, and from humans, which means there can be But en route they cross paths with a nervous a music video (exclusive to the Blu-ray release young woman who hides secret documents doppelgangers (a lazy plot device). Molly’s are additional featurettes, interviews, and de- husband (Goran Visnjic) only appears in the in their luggage and then runs off, pursued by leted scenes). Recommended. (S. Axmaker) mysterious men. Tuppence is intrigued and first episode, making way for a ruggedly sexy drags Tommy into her investigation, which Jeffrey Dean Morgan as the new male lead, leads them into a nest of Communist spies, Downton Abbey: Season 6—The Final whose role as friend and foe in the govern- putting their lives in danger. Tommy’s Uncle Season HHH1/2 ment plot isn’t quite clear. Molly’s humanich Carter (James Fleet), who is also a police in- PBS, 3 discs, 540 min., not rated, DVD: $49.99, son (Pierce Gagnon) makes a welcome return, spector, first tries to dissuade them from their Blu-ray: $59.99 as does Grace Gummer as a rebel humanichs antics, then drafts Tommy to go undercover The BBC series Downton Abbey revived the engineer. But this season’s focus on a fugitive

MARCH/APRIL 2016 49 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Molly tracking down an alien being bogs in World War II. The pressures of war and fuels the laughter, rather it’s the realities of down in formula narrative about machines the brutality of the German overlords take situations played for jokey pathos that makes taking over humanity, nanobot technology, an emotional toll on the village residents, Getting On such an offbeat delight. Present- shifting identities, and—groan—a magic who find themselves slowly divided between ing all six episodes from 2014, extras include amulet that will save the world. Extant still those who collaborate with the occupiers deleted scenes and a gag reel. Recommended. boasts big-budget production design and spe- (either willingly or otherwise) and those (T. Fr y) cial effects, but the new direction for the story who engage in resistance (in both large and turned out to be a hard sell, and the show small ways). To its credit, the series is brutally Inside Amy Schumer: folded its tent. Presenting all 13 episodes honest in its exploration of the relative ease Season 3 HHH from 2015, extras include behind-the-scenes with which many French nationals found Paramount, 2 discs, 210 min., featurettes, set tours, deleted scenes, and a gag themselves working in alliance with their not rated, DVD: $22.98 reel. Optional. (T. Fr y) one-time enemy. And it also deserves praise Amy Schumer’s acclaimed for considering aspects of life during wartime Comedy Central skit show is Fear the Walking Dead: often absent from many American produc- guided by her raunchy style The Complete First tions concerning WWII, most notably in of humor and perspective HH terms of food rationing and the efforts by on sexual politics. Each episode is loosely Season 1/2 the Germans to play their victims against Anchor Bay, 2 discs, not rated, defined by a theme which runs through the DVD: $39.98, Blu-ray: $49.99 each other. A French Village also boasts a sketches, interviews with people on the street, handsome production design and vibrant From the creators of The and clips from her standup comedy act. In its visuals. Unfortunately, however, the series third season, the show leapt from cable hit Walking Dead, this prequel too often falls victim to soap opera-level plot series is set in Los Angeles at to cultural phenomenon thanks to acclaimed devices, while the unusually large ensemble pieces that went viral on YouTube. This is the the moment of the zombie plague outbreak. cast—which includes stars Audrey Fleurot Kim Dickens stars as Madison Clark, a high season that satirized sexual double standards, and Thierry Godard—is variable in dramatic with Tina Fey, Patricia Arquette, and Julia school counselor and widow with two older abilities. Compiling all six episodes from the children (one a drug addict dropout on the Louis-Dreyfus celebrating the latter’s “Last 2009 first season,A French Village—despite its F**kable Day,” and also sexualized music streets, the other a high school teenager), flaws—offers a compelling view of how the with Cliff Curtis costarring as Travis Manawa, videos with the song “Milk Milk Lemonade.” French see their tragic wartime history. A The episode “12 Angry Men Inside Amy a divorced father with a teenage boy he sees strong optional purchase. (P. Hall) on weekends. Madison and Cliff are two Schumer” parodied the famous movie, this adults living together and trying to make time with an all-male jury (including Jeff their mixed family work. As the plague Getting On: The Goldblum, John Hawkes, and Paul Giamatti) spreads, so does panic, thanks to 24-hour Complete Second Season passing judgment on the actress’s sex appeal news and social media reports of the infected HHH and physical appearance. In another skit, biting innocent bystanders and getting up HBO, 180 min., TV-MA, DVD: she’s the perfect undercover cop because she after being taken down by a hail of gunshots. $29.99, Blu-ray: $39.99 is so plain-looking that no one ever notices The short six-episode season ends with the Getting On is probably the her. For much of the show, Schumer presents family getting out of the city and looking least-known comedy show herself as a hard-drinking, sexually reckless for sanctuary, essentially setting up the on a network famous for woman, but her humor cuts both ways as main series to come. But after five seasons of well-known, smart TV. The ratings weren’t she takes on body shaming, pay inequities, The Walking Dead, the learning curve of the good enough for HBO to go beyond a just- birth control, sexual assault, and other issues. human survivors here (who make the same wrapped third season, but there’s plenty to Winner of an Emmy Award for Outstanding mistakes) comes off as repetitive, and the enjoy in this brisk and darkly funny second Variety Sketch Series, this set compiles the new perspective doesn’t add much urgency season. The setting is the geriatric ward of a uncensored versions of all 10 episodes from or tension. What the show does bring to shabby Southern California hospital where the 2015 third season, with extras including a the genre is an exploration of an extended nurses and a supervising doctor bicker back bonus unaired sketch, a collection of unaired family under pressure, hints of a military and forth and battle with patients and ad- interviews, and outtakes. Recommended. conspiracy as martial law takes over, and a ministrators, but also provide compassionate (S. Axmaker) general state of chaos as the unimaginable care that feels warmly authentic. The black sweeps through a major metropolitan city. humor is often based on the realities of end- Maison Close: Season The massive popularity of the parent series of-life care, especially bodily functions and Two HHH will likely stir interest in this companion fluids. And while that may sound like a grim Music Box, 400 min., in French show. Compiling the brief 2015 debut season, proposition, the writing and cast coalesce w/English subtitles, not rated, extras include behind the scenes featurettes. into an oft-hilarious comedy of human DVD: 3 discs, $34.95; Blu-ray: A strong optional purchase. [Note: a Blu-ray foibles. This season finds socially inept doctor 2 discs, $39.95 “special edition” of the first season will bow Jenna James (Laurie Metcalf) in the doghouse This second season of March 22 with additional bonus features.] for her questionable research studies and at- the French-language series (S. Axmaker) tempts at ersatz hospice care. Nurses Dawn set in a Parisian brothel during the Belle (Alex Borstein) and Didi (Niecy Nash) are bet- Époque is set against the backdrop of the A French Village: Season ter friends, though still fumbling caregivers beginnings of the Third Republic, which 1 HH1/2 in spite of their humane attitudes. Sexually stressed the restoration of moral order in MHz, 4 discs, 700 min., in confused head nurse Patsy De La Serda (Mel the nation. Part of that agenda involved French w/English subtitles, not Rodriguez) remains an enigma, friend, and controlling prostitution in the city, which rated, DVD: $39.95 thorn to most in his path. In addition to explains the prominence here of stern Chief This French television the strong ensemble, guests including Car- Commissioner Torcy (Sébastian Libessart), series, broadcast stateside on rie Preston, Betty Buckley, Jean Smart, and whose rigor in trying to clamp down on the MHz Choice, details life in a Mary Kay Place kick up the funny conflict oldest profession leads Madame Hortense small village during the German occupation by several notches. It’s not quite satire that (Valérie Karsenti)—whose autocratic rule

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 50 MARCH/APRIL 2016 over The Paradise was challenged in the ear- Mr. Robot: Season 1 nately meddling, obnoxious, endearing, and lier season—to play a dangerous balancing HHH1/2 imperious in the grand tradition of British act between the police and ambitious gang Universal, 484 min., not rated, drag comedians, but a little bit of Mrs. Brown leader Mosca (Michaël Cohen), who takes DVD: 3 discs, $44.98; Blu-ray: goes a long way. Compiling all 18 episodes up residence in the house as the effective 2 discs, $49.98 from the 2009-13 three-season run, extras manager. Simmering animosities within Rami Malek, who has includes seven Christmas specials. Not a his organization and hostility from other delivered impressive per- necessary purchase. (T. Fr y) gangs alternate with the continuing stories formances in small film of the women who try to survive in The roles for years, takes the lead in this cable Mystery Science Theater Paradise, including Véra (Anne Charrier), conspiracy series as Elliot, an intense, socially 3000 Volume XXXIV whose hopes for her daughter are threat- awkward computer hacker who works for a ened by the girl’s rebellious streak, and HHH1/2 computer security outfit by day and metes Shout! Factory, 4 discs, 480 Rose (Jemima West), whose involvement out justice by night. That might make him min., not rated, DVD: $59.99 with Mosca is endangered by his desire for sound like a superhero, but Elliot is emotion- a big score. The filmmakers’ habit of using This 34th compilation ally troubled and unstable, self-medicating to of the cult TV show Mystery anachronistically modern music to nudge maintain his equilibrium, while also spying viewers toward a comparison between Science Theater 3000 fol- on everyone to discover their secrets. Elliot lows the longstanding formula of screening The Paradise women’s attempt to achieve is recruited by a cabal of revolutionary hack- autonomy and today’s continuing struggle really bad movies with snarky commentary ers led by an enigmatic anarchist known as delivered by a man and his robot compan- for female equality can be jarring, but this “Mr. Robot” (Golden Globe-winner Christian ions imprisoned on a space station. All four is otherwise a sumptuously-mounted and Slater) to hack a powerful corporation known movies roasted here hail from the B&W well-acted series. Extras include a booklet as Evil Corp and erase the debts of millions horror-fantasy ‘50s era of legendary cheapo with production notes, photos, and inter- of citizens. Mr. Robot has an element of sci-fi studio American International Pictures. B- views. Recommended. (F. Swietek) but it’s more of a conspiracy thriller seen movie legendary director Roger Corman’s through the perspective of a schizophrenic self-explanatory The Saga of the Viking Women Marco Polo: The hero, whose dryly witty narration reveals a and Their Voyage to the Waters of the Great Complete First Season tormented mind: Elliot is paranoid and has Sea Serpent (1957) is roundly mocked by Joel HHH hallucinations, so he must sort out what’s real Hodgson (and robots), who also does the Anchor Bay, 547 min., not from what’s in his head. The series, created by honors for filmmaker Bert I. Gordon’s War rated, DVD: 4 discs, $39.98; Sam Esmail, borrows from Fight Club and V of the Colossal Beast (1958), which follows the Blu-ray: 3 discs, $49.99 for Vendetta, but takes its portrait of corporate rampage of a deformed mutant giant through Historical accuracy takes power, cyber-crime, and grassroots-activists- Mexico and California. Mike Nelson serves a backseat to excitement, as-anarchist-hackers into unexpected direc- as wisecracking host for the other two AIP political skullduggery, and sex in this Net- tions. Presenting all 10 episodes from the releases (both inspired by the ‘50s “Bridey flix original series about the titular 13th- Golden Globe-winning 2015 debut season, Murphy” reincarnation craze): Edward L. century Venetian, who spent nearly 20 years extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette, Cahn’s The She Creature (1956) and Corman’s at the court of the Mongolian warlord Kublai deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Highly recom- The Undead (1957). Nelson and the ‘bots hi- Khan and recorded his colorful experiences mended. (S. Axmaker) lariously scold Leonard Maltin for giving the following his return to Europe. Lorenzo latter a positive write-up in his movie guides. Richelmy is a handsome if also rather Mrs. Brown’s Boys: Extras include new introductions by MST3K bland Marco, while Benedict Wong cuts an Complete Series HH bit player Frank Conniff, and the full-length imposing bearlike figure as Khan. One of Universal, 8 discs, 748 min., documentary It Was a Colossal Teenage Movie the many interwoven narrative strands fo- not rated, DVD: $99.98 Machine: The AIP Story—a gossipy oral history cuses on Marco’s assimilation into the royal This BBC Scotland and of the company, featuring Corman, among court—despite suspicions from many of the RTÉ sitcom will mostly be others. Highly recommended. (C. Cassady) ruler’s family and advisors—including his unfamiliar to audiences not training in martial arts and horsemanship tuned into bawdy British TV. Ray Donovan: Season by a grim Taoist monk called Hundred Eyes The show entirely revolves around Brendan Three HHH (Tom Wu). A second concerns the Italian’s O’Carroll who dons drag as the titular Mrs. Paramount, 637 min., not dangerous romantic interests at court, while Brown and spews out strings of foul-mouthed, rated, DVD: 4 discs, $42.99; a third involves Khan’s determination to wink-wink ad libs and malapropisms before Blu-ray: 3 discs, $49.99 conquer the world—which leads not only an adoring live crowd. The setting is Agnes This Showtime-aired se- to a struggle with his own brother over ter- Brown’s cluttered Dublin household and the ries starring Liev Schreiber ritory but also a protracted effort to capture cast is composed of her motley family, all of as a professional “fixer” in a heavily-fortified Chinese city where the whom exist purely as foils for her dirty jokes, Los Angeles who covers up the scandals of wily chancellor of the Song dynasty plots leering peepers, and naughty asides. O’Carroll the rich and famous presents an interesting to have Khan assassinated. Marco Polo has a rules the stage, frequently going off script to collision of cultures. The son of a conniving tendency to fall back repeatedly on the same speak directly to the studio audience or his small-time Boston crook (Jon Voight), Ray clichés—Marco finds himself in chains and castmates. Goofs, bloopers, flubbed lines, and has lost his accent and suppressed his family’s threatened with execution quite often—but technical gaffes are all part of the fun in an hot-headed nature beneath an unemotional the writing is generally solid, and the visuals otherwise ordinary set of highly Anglophilic front of cold reason and cool calculation. But are eye-catching. Presenting all 10 episodes family situations. Critics skewered the show the rest of the extended family still hangs on from 2015, extras include a documentary as juvenile and offensive, which it most cer- to their Boston-Irish identity, making Ray on the historical Marco Polo, behind-the- tainly is, although aside from the deliberately something of an outsider in his own home. scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, a gag amateurish style and obsession with sex, it’s As the third season begins, Ray has moved reel, and art and costume galleries. Recom- not such a far cry from classic sitcoms like out of the house to live in a downtown apart- mended. (F. Swietek) Fawlty Towers. O’Carroll’s character is alter- ment, and his brother Terry (Eddie Marsan)

MARCH/APRIL 2016 51 VIDEO LIBRARIAN is in prison, a victim of their father’s latest ing from his liver transplant but still up to his an anti-public housing campaign at a time ill-conceived criminal scheme. To spring neck in irresponsible, alcoholic behavior; and when resentment to court-ordered low-in- Terry (who suffers from Parkinson’s), Ray Ian (Cameron Monaghan) is diagnosed as come housing was so fierce it bordered on makes a deal with a shady Los Angeles mogul bipolar and his actions become increasingly hysteria. A true story about public housing (Ian McShane) and lands in the middle of a dangerous and bizarre. The Gallaghers’ blue- policy and city politics may not sound struggle over the family business with the collar South Side Chicago neighborhood is like the makings of compelling drama latter’s ambitious daughter (Katie Holmes). succumbing to gentrification—which doesn’t but Show Me a Hero showcases what Simon Meanwhile, Ray’s father puts the whole fam- sit well with anyone—and drugs are wreak- does best: exploring real-life events and ily in the crosshairs of the Armenian mob. ing havoc in many quarters. None of this issues through a dramatic lens that puts The heart of the show is built on family makes for a wholesome family dynamic, only politics, economics, and social justice in conflict and Ray’s guilt, anger, and self-im- by now it is really just the show’s dedicated personal terms. Wasicsko is at the center posed emotional isolation—and Schreiber fans who will have much interest in follow- of the story but is only one character in an carries the drama with a strong, understated ing the outrageous and often insufferable an- expansive canvas that encompasses not just portrayal. Compiling all 12 episodes from tics of this brutal soap opera. Still, the series the politicians but also the white homeown- the 2015 third season, this dark drama is does score points for its portrait of a strong ers resisting change (including Catherine recommended. (S. Axmaker) (albeit dysfunctional) family weathering Keener, whose bedrock civility is carried storms together. Presenting all 12 episodes away by mob passions), and folks strug- Restless HHH from the 2015 fifth season, extras include gling to make a life for themselves in the Acorn, 185 min., not rated, an audio commentary, behind-the-scene crime-ridden projects—from a healthcare DVD: $34.99 featurettes, and unaired scenes. A strong worker (LaTanya Richardson Jackson) go- A quiet tale of espionage optional purchase. (T. Fr y) ing blind from diabetes, to a single mother and suspense, Restless spins (Ilfenesh Hadera) from the Dominican a fine spy story that jumps Shaun the Sheep: Republic forced to leave her children back between 1939 and 1976. Season One HHH on the island while she supports them Hayley Atwell stars as Eva Lionsgate, 2 discs, 280 min., from Yonkers. The narrative spans several Delectorskaya, a reluctant agent recruited by not rated, DVD: $14.98 years as the protests and court cases drag British Intelligence just in time for WWII. The animated children’s on and is as much about the polarization Michelle Dockery costars as the daughter series Shaun the Sheep hails of politics as it is about the resentment and who is astonished to not only learn of her from Nick Park and Britain’s fear surrounding desegregation. Extras in- mother’s covert history 35 years later (Char- Aardman Animations, cre- clude a “making-of” featurette. A powerful, lotte Rampling plays the older Eva), but also ators of the Wallace and Gromit shorts and provocative drama, this is highly recom- discover that the dangers of the past are still movies, and features the same style of stop- mended. (S. Axmaker) nipping at Eva’s heels. This two-part 2012 motion animation. Shaun is a diminutive but miniseries unfolds through a judicious series imaginative member of a flock of sheep who South Park: The of flashbacks and flashforwards that describe has a creative touch when it comes to having Complete Eighteenth Eva’s indoctrination to spycraft, her work fun on his rural farm. The country barnyard Season HH1/2 spreading disinformation in the U.K. and is also home to an earnest sheep dog who Paramount, 2 discs, 220 min., the U.S., her romantic attachments, and the balances his duties with an appreciation for not rated, DVD: $29.99, Blu- growing evidence that she’s still part of the Shaun’s ideas; a trio of wily pigs, and a farmer ray: $39.99 game—even in her dotage. Rather than fancy who manages to remain oblivious to the Creator and voice stars up the story with florid mystery or forced antics of his livestock. The story is presented Trey Parker and Matt Stone emotion, director Edward Hall wisely adopts as silent movie comedy—with music and haven’t quite beat the dead horse to a bloody a straightforward approach in adapting the sound effects, but no dialogue (except bleat- pulp, as evidenced with this 2014 10-episode 2006 novel by William Boyd. Eva’s journey ing)—and each short episode is filled with 18th season of the long-running vulgar ani- from innocent girl, to master spy, to paranoid clever visual humor and vivid personalities. mated series, which includes continuations operative still stuck out in the cold makes for This series ran on the Disney Channel in of storylines (in a change from the usual a satisfying mix of tension and drama. And the U.S. in 2007 but this re-release is timed standalone episodes or specific arcs). In “Go the ensemble cast is first rate, including Rufus to coincide with the arrival of the Oscar- Fund Yourself,” potty-mouthed Colorado Sewell and Michael Gambon. Extras include nominated Shaun the Sheep feature film. grade-schoolers Kyle, Stan, Cartman, and a photo gallery. Recommended. (T. Fr y) Compiling all 40 first season episodes, extras Kenny drop out of classes to make money on a include behind-the-scenes featurettes, and start-up company that does nothing; “Gluten Shameless: The a sing-along music video. Recommended. Free Ebola” finds the boys on the outs with Complete Fifth Season (S. Axmaker) their school friends and trying to get back in HH1/2 their good graces by offering up singer Lorde Warner, 642 min., not rated, Show Me a Hero (who is actually Stan’s dad); “The Cissy” fea- DVD: 3 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: HHH1/2 tures Cartman jumping on the transgender 2 discs, $44.98 HBO, 2 discs, 358 min., TV- train to get better bathroom privileges; and The relentless Sturm und MA, DVD: $39.98, Blu-ray: “Handicar” spotlights handicapped Timmy Drang of the Gallagher clan $49.99 as he takes over the local rideshare market. returns in this fifth season set. The show’s Developed by David Si- Also featuring the Emmy-nominated episode raison d’être has always been to convey the mon (creator of The Wire) “Freemium Isn’t Free” (with an appearance woozy and chaotic uncertainty at the center from the titular 1999 non- by South Park movie characters Terrance and of one multi-layered, large Irish family. Fresh fiction book by Lisa Belkin, this six-part Phillip), “Cock Magic,” and the two-part out of prison, Fiona (Emmy Rossum) is get- 2015 HBO miniseries directed by Paul season finale “#REHASH” and “#HappyHo- ting caught up with a new boss and further Haggis stars the talented Oscar Isaac as lograms,” extras include episode commen- entangled in bad (though steamy) romantic Nick Wasicsko, a city councilman who taries and deleted scenes. A strong optional decisions; Frank (William H. Macy) is recover- became the mayor of Yonkers in 1988 with purchase. (J. Williams-Wood)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 52 MARCH/APRIL 2016 True Detective: The Even the actors seem to struggle with putting lessly back in, the phone lines are constantly Complete Second much effort into the silly shenanigans: Dean down, and the kooky inhabitants all share a Norris as Big Jim, Mike Vogel as Barbie, and wavelength of paranoia. Chief among them Season HH1/2 Rachelle Lefevre as Julia appear confused is Sheriff Pope (Terrence Howard), who rules HBO, 3 discs, 503 min., TV- with an iron fist and public executions. The MA, DVD: $59.99, Blu-ray: themselves as the sci-fi narrative turns even $79.98 more cartoon-like with re-birthed humans debut season sports some maddening, circu- and Dome-inspired delusions. Compiling lar plots and an absolutely insane backstory, The second season of the all 13 episodes from 2015, extras include but the detailed production design, creative crime anthology series created and written for behind-the-scenes featurettes, extended and chutzpah, and surefooted ensemble cast HBO by novelist Nic Pizzolatto takes on an deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Optional, at make for many memorable moments. The entirely new mystery, complete with a fresh best. (T. Fr y) residents include Toby Jones as a malevolent setting and cast of characters. This one comes psychiatrist, Melissa Leo as a not-so-kindly out of the tradition of L.A. crime fiction UnREAL: Season 1 Nurse Ratched-type, Carla Gugino as one of with political corruption and compromised Burke’s (maybe) missing people, and Juliette HHH1/2 cops, an elaborate web of criminal cover- Lewis as a seemingly sympathetic bartender. ups, gangsters, and graft. Colin Farrell plays Lionsgate, 2 discs, 440 min., not rated, DVD: $26.98 Compiling all 10 episodes from the 2015 first Ray Velcoro, a detective with anger issues in season, extras include behind-the-scenes An acidic satire of real- the mob’s pocket; Rachel McAdams is Ani featurettes. Recommended. (T. Fr y) Bezzerides, a rising detective whose reckless ity TV, this Lifetime series personal life threatens her career; and Vince is set behind the scenes of Zoo: Season One HHH Vaughn is Frank Semyon, a smooth career a Bachelor-like show (here called Everlasting). Constance Zimmer stars as Paramount, 4 discs, 540 min., criminal trying to go legit in a major new not rated, DVD: $64.99, Blu- redevelopment scheme. The tangled storyline Quinn King, the manipulative producer who ray: $76.99 kicks off with the murder of a city manager engineers conflict in order to create the kind of showy drama that earns ratings, while Shiri This offbeat thriller and the disappearance of Frank’s seed money, adapted from the titular which lands him in trouble with his mobbed- Appleby is production assistant Rachel Gold- berg, Quinn’s star protégé. Nobody is better at 2012 bestselling novel by up partners. Ray and Ani are then teamed James Patterson and Michael with a motorcycle officer (Taylor Kitsch) for mind games and psychological manipulation than Rachel…which makes her miserable. Ledwidge serves up a tale of animals taking a murder investigation that isn’t supposed over Earth. A pandemic grows from strange to go anywhere but draws them into a con- And that pretty much sets the stage for ev- erything that happens behind the curtain of lion attacks in Los Angeles and bizarre, sys- spiracy involving the rich and powerful in a tematic prowling of creatures on the African (fictional) economically depressed California this contrived dating show, in which a dozen or so contestants compete for a handsome Plain. And it doesn’t stop until the world’s town. After the acclaim for the Southern fauna are united in war against humans. A gothic vibe of the brilliant first season, audi- young British bachelor (Freddie Stroma) who is heir to a hotel fortune. But while there is a team of five far-flung cast members spout ences were disappointed in this more familiar pseudoscientific jargon and engage in twisted urban crime drama and critics lambasted catty competitiveness between the women, the real drama occurs behind the camera logic to figure things out, without much suc- the show for its shopworn character types cess. But no matter: this is cartoony good fun and plot twists. But it’s well-written, overall, where Quinn and her team conspire to bring out the worst behavior in the contestants. with a serious edge to the drama and action. with a vivid atmosphere of seediness and des- Along the way, there are coordinated bat at- peration. Compiling all eight episodes from Created by Marti Noxon and Sarah Gertrude Shapiro (a war-scarred veteran of the real The tacks, bears that communicate and work to 2015, extras include episode commentaries corral people, and lots of talk about a sacred and behind-the-scenes featurettes. A strong Bachelor), UnREAL is less an outright parody and more of a scathing commentary on the “mother cell” that might be a cure (distributed optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) culture that feeds the genre. Presenting all 10 globally via mosquitoes, no less). The setting episodes from the 2015 debut season, extras shuttles between Botswana, Fukushima, Rio, Under the Dome: Season include bonus footage. Highly recommended. Paris, and Mobile, AL, and the animal special effects are particularly well done, right down 3 HH (S. Axmaker) Paramount, 4 discs, 546 min., to the eerie, widened pupils of infected hordes not rated, DVD: $64.99, Blu- of realistic-looking CGI beasts. James Wolk ray: $76.99 Wayward Pines HHH is the nominal star as Dr. Oz, a researcher in It wasn’t exactly trumpets Fox, 3 discs, 440 min., not Africa whose right hand is Abraham Kenyatta that brought the fall, but rated, DVD: $29.98 (Nonso Anozie). Less believable is a miscast just like the fabled walls Filmmaker M. Night Shy- Kristen Connolly as a brash journalist, while of Jericho, the Dome came tumbling down. amalan (The Sixth Sense) may Nora Arnezeder as a French agent and Billy Good thing, as CBS finally pulled the plug have lost the Midas touch, Burke as a soulful veterinarian round out after three increasingly bizarre seasons of but his reputation is on the the gang. Presenting all 13 episodes from the what began as a summer replacement series in upswing again, in part due 2015 debut season, extras include behind-the- 2013. Even during its first giddy season, Under to Wayward Pines. The former wunderkind scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, and a gag the Dome didn’t take long to start running off is an executive producer and he directed the reel. Recommended. (T. Fr y) the rails with goofiness that was out of sync premiere episode of this agreeably spooky with Stephen King’s 2009 source novel. Up mystery drama—based on a 2012-14 trilogy to and including the apocalyptic finale, the of novels by Blake Crouch—about the black Online hole goings-on in a small town in Idaho. Matt writers here seem to be scrambling around for Visit Video Librarian Online (www. plot deviations and mostly coming up empty Dillon carries an ironic twinkle in his eye videolibrarian.com) for more reviews with a cockamamie alien pod-people sideline as secret service agent Ethan Burke, whose during March and April, including: Black complete with killer queens, a society of missing person investigation takes him to Work, The Bold Ones: The Lawyers—The followers known as the Kinship, and a band Wayward Pines, a destination that he is ap- Complete Series, Chasing Shadows, Thérèse of resistance fighters lost in the network of parently bound never to leave. It’s the kind of Raquin, The Widower, and much more! tunnels beneath the town of Chester’s Mill. place where the route out of town loops end-

MARCH/APRIL 2016 53 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Video Reviews

from the popular Angry Birds video game on a zany puppet kick—are all on hand to Ordering information for the titles reviewed in franchise serves up a strange compilation help crack the case when the ghost of the this section can be found in the “Distributor of related shorts featuring the titular pink college founder keeps scaring away potential heroine. Without using words—except for students. “Be Quiet, Scooby-Doo” takes place Addresses” listings at the back of the magazine. a brief muffled “sweet” or “hey”—Stella and during a colorful underground Crystal Can- her brightly colored friends communicate opy cave tour, as a strange “Crystal Crawler” HHHH= Excellent through expressions and convey their emo- monster makes mayhem with scientific re- HHH= Good tions through noises. “A Fork in the Friend- searchers; and “Party Like It’s 1899” centers ship” finds purple bird Gale drunk with on a costumed mystery party at Wuthering HH= Fair power after she discovers a crown and a magic Manor, where a headless apparition comes to book—and is immediately worshipped by a life during a sleuthing game. Also including H= Poor gaggle of weird green pig-like creatures. “Bad “Screama Donna,” “Kitchen Frightmare” PPR = Public Performance Rights Princess” alerts Stella and the gang to Gale’s (Scooby and Shaggy’s food mentor’s Cheese new stature, while other episodes center Volcano eatery is threatened by a Yeti snow DRA = Digital Rights Available on hang-gliding practice (“Own the Sky”), monster), “Me, Myself, and A.I.,” and more, Aud = Audience power plays (“The Golden Egg”), an awkward this snappy update—with silly asides that will celebration (“Don’t Steal My Birthday”), and appeal to adults as well as young people—is K = Preschool-Kindergarten a Stella/Gale showdown (“To the Bitter End”). recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) Extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes. E = Elementary (grades 1-3) Offering very little in the way of life lessons, A Dance Like Starlight HHH I = Intermediate (grades 4-6) this is not a necessary purchase. Aud: P. (2015) 8 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. (J. Williams-Wood) PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-63379-448-1. J = Jr. High (grades 7-8) Subtitled “One Ballerina’s Dream,” this H = High School (grades 9-12) Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! Season 1, Part 1 iconographic-animated adaptation of au- HHH thor Kristy Dempsey and illustrator Floyd C = Colleges & Universities (2015) 2 discs. 292 min. DVD: $19.98. Warner Cooper’s 2014 picture book is narrated by P = Public Libraries Home Video (avail. from most distributors). Bahni Turpin and presented in realistic oil Marking the 12th show to feature cartoon wash. A Dance Like Starlight focuses on a little scaredy cat Great Dane Scooby-Doo, this black girl with dancing dreams in 1950s Har- Cartoon Network-aired series is set during the lem. “Hope can pick your dream up,” Mama CHILDREN’S summer after the gang finishes high school. says, “off the floor of your heart.” And Mama Compiling 12 episodes from the 2015 first would know, thanks to her hard work han- season, opener “Mystery 101” focuses on dling and cleaning the costumes for a nearby brainy Mystery Inc. member Velma’s (newly ballet school. Tagging along with her mother, Alice in Wonderland: Down the Rabbit voiced by Kate Micucci) quest to enroll at the the girl impresses the ballet master with Hole HH prestigious Kingston University. Scoob (Frank her copycat of routines—performed in the (2015) 9 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. Welker), Shaggy (Matthew Lillard), Fred (also wings—and she joins the lessons (although PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-68262-974-1. Welker), and Daphne (Grey Griffin)—who’s not in front with the white girls)—and is good Paying tribute to Lewis Carroll’s 1865 classic Alice in Wonderland, this iconographic- animated adaptation of the 2015 picture Hillary Rodham Clinton: Some Girls Are Born to Lead book written by Joe Rhatigan and Charles HHH Nurnberg and featuring acrylic painting 1/2 (2016) 13 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. PPR. Closed captioned. illustrations by Eric Puybaret is narrated ISBN: 978-1-52000-366-5. by Downton Abbey’s Joanne Froggatt. This modern retelling follows the well-worn story Monicagate? Wall Street ties? Private email controversy? Young of little girl Alice’s ordinary day by the river, viewers will find none of those mentioned in this biographical which turns zany after she follows a rabbit profile of current presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clin- with a pocket watch down a hole. Alice uses ton—an iconographic-animated adaptation of the 2016 picture book written by Michelle Markel and illustrated by LeUyen deductive reasoning (eating and drinking Pham. But let’s not throw the former First Lady out with the random labeled items that shrink and grow Whitewater (rim shot). Narrated by Lesa Lockford, this inspira- her body) to make her way through a garden, tional girl-power portrait notes that Hillary Rodham grew up in the 1950s in a “man’s runs a race with various creatures, and gets world.” As a teenager, Hillary attended a speech by Martin Luther King, Jr.; she later advice from a blue caterpillar. Unfortunately, graduated from Wellesley College, earned a degree from Yale Law School, and married the story oddly stops on a cliffhanger—for future Arkansas governor and U.S. President Bill Clinton. As a First Lady and mother those familiar with the original novel—right to young Chelsea, Hillary was part of a “new breed, a Superwoman.” Because Hillary before the infamous tea party. A strangely took a much more active role in politics than was characteristic of a First Lady, she abridged version of a beloved tale, this is an met resistance, particularly over her role in promoting universal healthcare (she had optional purchase, at best. Aud: K, E, P. (J. to wear a bulletproof vest on speaking tours). Clinton went on to make history as a Williams-Wood) senator from New York (“no First Lady had ever done such a thing”), before mount- ing a failed bid for the presidency in 2008, and then taking a position as Secretary of Angry Birds—Stella: The Complete State in the Obama administration. Adults may have differing opinions about Hillary First Season HH Clinton, but no one can deny her very real achievements as a woman who has broken (2015) 78 min. DVD: $14.99. Sony Pictures Home more than one glass ceiling. Extras include a detailed, narrated timeline of Clinton’s Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). life and career to date. An inspiring true-life female empowerment biography for kids, This 13-episode 2015 first season of this is highly recommended. Aud: E, P. (R. Pitman) the 3D motion-animated series spin-off

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 54 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Make family movie night special with these new releases from NCircle Entertainment!

With these educational and adventure-driven new releases, NCircle Entertainment will make your family movie night fun and educational at the same time. Take your little one on an action-packed adventure with The Little Prince, with stories inspired by the masterpiece of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Jim Henson’s Doozers love to DESIGN, CREATE, and INNOVATE while having a great time putting their ideas into action on their STEM-based adventures. Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab explores science and the inventions of Thomas Edison and other famous inventors; while the secret lab kids go on adventures around the world and through time. Lily’s Driftwood Bay is a magical place full of imagination where a new adventure washes ashore each day. Get ready for a spring full of imagination, adventure, and education that educates with NCircle Entertainment.

Available at the following wholesalers: Alliance Entertainment, Ingram Entertainment, Midwest Tape, Baker & Taylor, and WaxWorks. www.NCircleEntertainment.com enough to be picked out for a demonstration. Seeing a picture of “colored” prima ballerina Janet Collins in the newspaper inspires the mother and daughter to go see the dancer at ALA-ALSC Notable Videos 2016 the Metropolitan Opera for a night full of awe and joy. An engaging ode to hope and ALA’s Association for Library Services following the escapades of an endearingly aspiration, this is recommended. Aud: K, E, to Children (ALSC) has selected its 2016 neurotic squirrel, this animated adapta- P. ( J. Williams-Wood) list of Notable Children’s Videos, which tion of her 2009 picture book—narrated includes DVDs for children 14 years of by David de Vries—finds the titular hero Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the age and younger. Unless otherwise noted, trying to stay awake to avoid bad dreams. HHH titles are available from most distributors (See review on page 58) Shopping Mall Gorilla or the companies are listed in the “Dis- (2015) 8 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). Weston Woods Studios. PPR. Closed captioned. tributor Addresses” on page 82. That is NOT a Good Idea! (Weston ISBN: 978-0-545-87915-6. Woods, 7 min., DVD: $59.95). Winner This animated adaptation of a 2014 picture Bugs in My Hair! (Weston Woods, 8 of the Carnegie Medal for Excellence book by author Katherine Applegate and min., DVD: $59.95). Narrated by Jesse in Children’s Video, this adaptation of illustrator G. Brian Karas tells the story of Bernstein, this excellent animated adapta- author-illustrator-narrator Mo Willems’s Ivan, beginning with his capture as a cute tion of writer-illustrator David Shannon’s 2013 picture book is framed as an old- baby western lowland gorilla in the Congo by lighthearted 2013 picture book tackles an timey filmstrip watched by adorable giggly poachers with “loud guns and cruel hands.” embarrassing subject as it follows a boy baby geese who follow the story of Hungry Sold to owners of the B&I shopping mall in who has cartoonish head lice. (VL-11/15) Fox in his pursuit of Plump Goose. (See Tacoma, WA, along with a female in 1964, review on page 58) Ivan got his name after shoppers were encour- I’m Brave (Weston Woods, 8 min., aged to enter a “name the babies” contest DVD: $59.95). An animated adaptation The Toxic Life Cycle of a Cigarette of author and illustrator couple Kate and (sadly, the girl gorilla, Burma, died after a (Human Relations Media, 17 min., DVD: Jim McMullan’s 2014 picture book—from few months). Dressed in human clothes and $149.95, web: hrmvideo.com). Featuring their popular series—this tale centers on comments from teen farm workers and given a bed, Ivan’s activities included baseball a firehouse and a busy anthropomorphic a leading scientist, this eye-opening live- games and riding a motorcycle, until he grew fire truck (drawlingly narrated by Jona- action guidance program outlines the too big and was put into a cage in the mall, than Banks). (VL-11/15) downsides of cigarette manufacturing where he engaged in channel-surfing, finger- and disposal, as well as the widely-known painting, and people-watching in a lonely Peanut Butter and Jellyfish (Weston health hazards of smoking. existence. After nearly 30 years at B&I, the Woods, 8 min., DVD: $59.95). Author-il- organization PAWS and others banded to- lustrator-narrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka uses Viva Frida (Dreamscape, 11 min., DVD: gether to get Ivan out of the shopping center acrylic colors to depict underwater neon $38.99). Based on the Caldecott Honor and into a zoo, where he was able to gradually sea creatures and plants in this fun ani- Book and Pura Belpré Award winner (for adjust to life with other gorillas. A strange mated tale based on his 2014 picture book, Latino works for children), this icono- true story—brought to national attention by which follows frolicking best buddies graphic-animated adaptation of author- Applegate, who won a Newbery Medal for her Peanut Butter the seahorse and Jellyfish illustrator Yuyi Morales’s 2014 picture The One and Only Ivan—this is recommended. (the jellyfish). VL( -1/16) book—narrated by Adriana Sananes—of- Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood) fers an introduction to famed Mexican Same Same But Different (Weston painter Frida Kahlo. (VL-9/15) Looking at Lincoln HHH Woods, 8 min., DVD: $59.95). Author and (2015) 10 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. illustrator Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw’s 2011 Members of the 2016 Carnegie Medal/ PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-63379-611-9. picture book is adapted in this vibrantly Notable Children’s Videos Committee are: Narrated by Elizabeth Cottle, this icono- colorful iconographic-animated short Chair, Lizabeth L. Deskins, Hilliard City graphic-animated adaptation of author and that features dual-narration by Maxwell Schools, OH; Eric Carpenter, Fred A. Toomey illustrator Maira Kalman’s 2012 picture book Glick and Vikas Adam, comparing and Elementary School, Atlanta, GA; Linda L. about America’s 16th President follows a little contrasting the lives of two young boys Ernst, King County Library System, Mercer girl who sees a tall man on her way to a coffee Island, WA; Joanna Fabicon, Los Angeles whose teachers have matched them up Public Library; Dr. Sharon McQueen, Old shop breakfast and is reminded of Abraham in a pen pal program. (VL-9/15) Lincoln. Heading to the library (yes!) to find Dominion University, Norfolk, VA; Mary- ann H. Owen, Oak Creek Public Library, out more information, the girl marvels at Scaredy Squirrel at Night (Weston WI; Susan H. Polos, Bedford Central School the plethora of books written about the man Woods, 11 min., DVD: $59.95). The latest District, Mt. Kisco, NY; and Laurie B. Reese, with the “unusual face.” Our protagonist in author-illustrator Mélanie Watt’s series Los Angeles Public Library. gleans a lot of information about Abe, from his log cabin birth in his native Kentucky to his good relationship with his stern-look- ing stepmother, longtime love of learning, job as a lawyer (“He did like to argue”), and marriage to Mary Todd. Touching on lesser- known aspects of Lincoln’s life (including the fact that he used his top hat to carry notes, loved Pippin apples, and especially enjoyed Mozart’s The Magic Flute), as well as his defining role in the Civil War, this his- torical short is recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 56 MARCH/APRIL 2016 THE YEAR’S TOP CHILDREN’S TITLES COMING SOON TO VIDEO

Drum Dream Girl Last Stop on Market Street Funny Bones A young girl ful lls her dreams Join young CJ on a Discover the little-known in this video treatment of memorable ride as the 2016 story of Mexican artist Jose‚ the acclaimed Pura Belpré Newbery winner comes to Guadalupe Posada in this Award winner. life in this dynamic video! 2016 Sibert winner. Available in May Available in April Available in April ISBN 9781520013213 $38.99 ISBN 9781520011356 $38.99 ISBN 9781520011424 ...... $38.99

THE CALDECOTT HONOR BOOK IS NOW AN ALA NOTABLE CHILDREN’S VIDEO! Frida Kahlo, one of the world’s most famous and unusual artists, is revered around the world. Her life was lled with laughter, love, and tragedy, all of which in uenced what she painted on her canvases. ISBN 9781681410173 ...... $38.99 ORDER THESE VIDEOS TODAY! TM dreamscapeab.com

VL MarApr16 Coming Soon Ad.indd 1 2/3/16 12:38 PM Piggy Tales: The Complete First Season lanie Watt’s series following the escapades loss, hallucinations, and confusion. When H of an endearingly neurotic squirrel is based his horoscope ominously predicts that his (2015) 51 min. DVD: $14.99. Sony Pictures Home on her 2009 picture book. Noting that he dreams will come true, Scaredy springs into Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). never sleeps—in order to avoid the risk of a silly plan of preventative action (featur- A companion to the Angry Birds video game having a bad dream (his thoughts of freaky ing a teddy bear decoy, molasses, and a fi re spin-off Bad Piggies, this computer-animated dragons, fairies, ghosts, unicorns, etc., extinguisher). Naturally, there will be an 31-episode fi rst season from 2015 consists of are presented in a jumbled kaleidoscope unexpected hitch in his strategy. An ALSC brief minute-plus segments that feature word- style)—Scaredy Squirrel has plenty of ideas Notable Children’s Video selection, this less small creatures who look like green peas, to keep busy, including counting stars and engaging tale about a cute rodent with an only with pig snouts and ears. The opening scrapbooking. However, even he admits that overactive imagination is recommended. episode, “Trampoline,” follows a Piggy who sleep loss has side effects—including energy Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood) ignores a sign cautioning against jumping on a trampoline and ends up smashed on the ceiling…along with the remnants of other That is NOT a Good Idea! HHH1/2 Pigs who didn’t pay attention. “Abduction” (2015) 7 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). Weston Woods fi nds a big Pig laughing at a small UFO…until Studios. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-0-545-87932-3. it forces its way into the pig’s mouth and Narrated by prolifi c author and illustrator Mo Willems, this lifts him away; “Superglue” joins together animated adaptation of his 2013 picture book is framed as an several Piggies by accident; and “Epic Sir old-time fi lmstrip being watched by adorable giggly baby geese. Bucket” features a nonsensical joust. Extras The story follows Hungry Fox, who meets Plump Goose and include behind-the-scenes featurettes. An un- asks if the lady would like to go for a stroll. When she responds imaginative series trying to ride the fi nancial positively, the audience of little geese voice their doubts, yelling coattails of a popular video game, this is not “that is NOT a good idea!” This peanut gallery gang continues recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) to respond unfavorably, arguing that it is really, really, really not a good plan for Plump Goose to follow Hungry Fox into the deep dark woods…into Scaredy Squirrel at Night HHH his kitchen…to help him boil soup water. But there’s a surprise in store—for the (2015) 11 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide viewer! Also including a read-along option and a “Team Mo” featurette by the writer’s included). Weston Woods Studios. PPR. Closed daughter, Trixie Willems, this fun short—winner of the 2016 Carnegie Medal for captioned. ISBN: 978-0-545-87923-1. Excellence in Children’s Video and an ALSC Notable Children’s Video selection—is Narrated by David de Vries, this latest ani- highly recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood) mated adaptation of author-illustrator Mé-

Children’s Classics

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VIDEO LIBRARIAN 58 MARCH/APRIL 2016 My Depression HHH is powerfully portrayed in filmmaker Lau- PSYCHOLOGY & SELF-HELP (2015) 30 min. DVD: $79: public libraries; $175: rent Bécue-Renard’s documentary, which colleges & universities. DRA. The Video Project. focuses on patients at The Pathway Home, PPR. Closed captioned. a residential therapy facility in the Napa At the Beach HHH Sigourney Weaver, Steve Buscemi, and Valley where Vietnam vet Fred Gusman (2014) 6 min. In French w/English subtitles. DVD: Fred Armisen are among the voice talent and his staff conduct individual and group $79. DRA. National Film Board of Canada. PPR. cast for this animated HBO-aired documen- sessions with soldiers and medics suffering Directed by Jeremy Peter Allen, this addi- tary from filmmakers Roz Lichter and Josh from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) tion to the National Film Board of Canada’s Hetzler centered on the complex issues and as a result of their service in Afghanistan 5 Shorts Project series takes a brief glimpse at symptoms surrounding clinical depression. and Iraq. Shot in fly-on-the-wall style over a July 2014 beach event held by Association The central character is a woman who ap- the course of five years, Of Men and War des Grands Brûlés F.L.A.M., a Quebec re- pears carefree at times, but more often is gradually focuses on a number of patients source for burn victims and their families. staving off the emergence of a black cloud who are encouraged to break the self- At first, the chatter of families and shots or is losing her sense of self-worth in a world erected walls of emotional resistance to of sunbathers and beachgoers make this full of people she believes are more interest- their feelings—releasing a mixture of grief, seem like any other popular recreation spot, ing than her. She tries to stay isolated, but a rage, and anxiety that could take the form but a closer look reveals that a number of friend lures her up from the depths only to of angry outbursts, helpless weeping, or people have various burns. A few talk about find that our poor heroine isn’t ready for it: stunned silence. Bécue-Renard also follows being out in the sun for the first time in she can’t find anything to talk about, can’t the men on outings or, in some cases, on years and feeling comfortable at an outing make eye contact—all she wants to do is their return home, where they struggle to where scars need not be hidden. “You can’t escape. Outlining some of the symptoms of rebuild their lives with wives and children. change what you are,” says one participant. protracted depression, including mercurial Of Men and War is often painful to watch; “If it bothers people, they can just look temperament, unpredictability, and suicidal PTSD is not an easily treated condition, away.” An interesting short depicting a lazy thoughts and feelings, My Depression reminds and therapeutic success may be only par- summer day gathering that was likely both viewers that there is no quick fix, but often tial and also extremely fragile. However, challenging and freeing for participants, lots of hard work involving commitment the film is not primarily concerned with this slice-of-life portrait is recommended. to therapy, while on the road to gradually the specific psychological methods em- Aud: C, P. (J. Williams-Wood) rebuilding self-esteem. Based on Broadway ployed by Pathway; rather, it offers an producer Elizabeth Swados’s award-winning incisive and often disturbing portrait of Changed Forever: Grieving the Death of 2005 memoir My Depression: A Picture Book, individuals who are so scarred by their this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) combat experience that they are unable Someone You Love HHH1/2 (2015) 50 min. DVD: $59.95. Paraclete Press to function in the civilian world—men (avail. from most distributors). PPR. ISBN: 978-1- Of Men and War HHH1/2 who are now engaged in a fight that may 61261-754-1. (2015) 103 min. DVD: $149 ($349 w/PPR). DRA. be as difficult as any they faced on the “Grief is like a tunnel that closes in be- Kino Lorber Edu. battlefield. Highly recommended. Aud: hind you—the only way out is through,” The human cost of America’s recent wars C, P. (F. Swietek) viewers are told in this guidance video from faith-based Paraclete Press that is short on proselytizing and long on empathy RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY for those experiencing grief. Granted, the role of faith is explored here (along with the universal question, “How could God allow this to happen?”) in an authentic Quakers: That of God in Everyone HHH1/2 and sensitive manner, but much of the (2015) 90 min. DVD: $19.99. Vision Video. material is equally applicable to believers Filmmaker Isaac Stambaugh’s excellent documentary skillfully and non-believers. Changed Forever features traces the impact of Quakers on American history, from the Co- interviews with people in the midst of lonial era up into the 21st century. Arriving in the future nation grieving, as well as three experts in grief during the late 17th century, William Penn and fellow Quaker counseling, while offering support to settlers took possession of land granted them by England’s throne, those struggling with the loss of a loved but also wrote compensatory treaties with the indigenous peoples one. Likely to be of some comfort is the who were already here. Spreading up and down the East Coast, the affirmation that everyone experiences grief Quakers would eventually find their principles in direct conflict in a highly personal way; there is no pre- with the country’s growing reliance on a slave-based economy. determined timeframe, style, or parameters Many Quakers migrated from the south to Ohio and other Northwest Territories, often for a “proper” grieving process. This will taking slaves along and freeing them upon arrival (Quakers were also instrumental in somewhat soothe those who are troubled helping slaves escape through the Underground Railroad). Stories of Quaker philan- by the often well-intentioned question, thropists and activists are abundant here, including those of Sarah and Isaac Harvey, “Isn’t it time to move on now?” The simple who gained a private audience with Abraham Lincoln and had a hand in his thinking answer is no, not until a person is ready. concerning the language of the Emancipation Proclamation. The role of pacifist Quakers Although there is no upside to grief, many in the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the first Gulf War is explored, offering report that—over time—the terrible pain an impressive account of men and women acting on their consciences yet not shirking becomes a “sweet sadness” that comes and responsibilities (driving ambulances and providing relief in the thick of battle action). goes. Also featuring a discussion guide, Quaker involvement in the Civil Rights movement is also covered here, as is the role this is highly recommended, especially for of Quaker schools in contemporary U.S. society. Serving up a fine historical study of those without similar fare such as Paraclete a religious group’s trials and triumphs while living in an often fractious, violent land, Press’s Grieving the Sudden Death of a Loved this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh) One (VL-3/13). Aud: P. (C. Block)

MARCH/APRIL 2016 59 VIDEO LIBRARIAN and SCTV performers. As Martin Short notes, is threatened with dismissal if he doesn’t SOCIAL & POLITICAL ISSUES Canadians and Americans look much the focus on acquiring job skills, but before he same. “It’s almost as if they’re Russian spies can be expelled, Chau decides to move back dressed up as Americans.” Cohen also looks home, where he faces a lonely existence and a 14: Dred Scott, Wong Kim Ark & at Canadians’ “supposedly boring history,” complicated physical environment. However, tolerance for low temperatures, and reputa- just when things are looking pretty bleak HH1/2 Vanessa Lopez tion for niceness. If Canadians are known for (enough so that Chau admits to contemplat- (2014) 67 min. DVD: $375. DRA. Graham Street Productions. PPR. apologizing for anything at the drop of the ing suicide), his determination and raw talent hat, some speakers believe that the overly as a painter earn him a deserved break—and One of the surprise issues to arise in polite façade hides some intense passive-ag- possible future. An inspiring portrait, this is the 2016 presidential campaign involves gressiveness. As Michael J. Fox points out, the highly recommended. Editor’s Choice. Aud: citizenship. Anne Galisky’s documentary national sport—hockey—is hardly genteel. C, P. (T. Keogh) offers three stories about determining the Other speakers include Seth Rogen, Alan definition of citizenship—two historic cases Thicke, and members of the power rock trio that resulted in landmark rulings by the Cody High: A Life Remodeled Project Rush. Some of these are standard interviews, HHH U.S. Supreme Court and one contemporary others not: Cohen speaks with Jason Priestley, (2014) 78 min. DVD: $14.99. Vision Video. instance regarding the child of illegal im- for instance, in front of a fireplace with beers migrants. The film begins with the infamous and a small dog at their side, while he chats The Cody Rouge community of Detroit Dred Scott case, which resulted in the 1857 with Dave Foley in bed. Anyone who has ever was not a place someone would want to stop Supreme Court ruling that blacks could not felt simultaneously proud of and embarrassed in, says a longtime resident at the beginning be U.S. citizens and had no standing that by his or her hometown is likely to relate to of this spirited, inspiring documentary. would allow them to bring litigation. Often Cohen’s findings. Recommended. Aud: C, P. Particular streets in the neighborhood were overlooked insights regarding the Dred Scott (K. Fennessy) unofficially off-limits by mid-afternoon, case are presented here, most notably regard- due to brazen gang activity in an area where ing the inclusion of Scott’s wife Harriet in HHHH dozens of houses were abandoned and falling the litigation, and the acknowledgment that Chau, Beyond the Lines (2014) 34 min. DVD: $79: public libraries & apart—a reflection of Detroit’s larger prob- many enslaved blacks tried to use the courts high schools; $299 w/PPR: colleges & universities. lems with crumbling industries, abandon- to push for their liberty. The documentary Seventh Art Releasing. ment of homes, and collapsed city services. then moves to the Wong Kim Ark case, in Filmmaker Courtney Marsh’s extraordi- Filmmaker Walter V. Marshall’s documentary which a San Francisco-born Chinese-Ameri- nary documentary—Oscar-nominated for captures the incredible blight that struck can successfully forced the Supreme Court in Best Documentary Short—begins in a grim Cody Rouge, especially in its schools and 1898 to define birthright citizenship as per setting: a facility in Ho Chi Minh City for along residential streets, where kids were the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. kids who are living with severe birth defects growing up with no sense of purpose, join- This case recently gained new attention and disabilities directly tied to Agent Orange, ing gangs for survival and a sense of family. via the debate on so-called “anchor babies” a notorious chemical defoliant that the U.S. Along came the nonprofit organization Life (children born in the U.S. to illegal immi- sprayed on Vietnamese forests for a decade. Remodeled, which took a holistic approach grants), which leads to the film’s third story Up to 4.8 million people in Vietnam have to rebuilding the community both literally regarding U.S.-born Vanessa Lopez and her been affected by their parents’ exposure and spiritually. Cody High tells the story of a Mexican parents. Unfortunately, the Lopez to the poison via rivers and other natural massive effort to fix the schools and a number story intentionally blurs the lines between sources. Among the boys at the “Agent Or- of houses, clean up and beautify the streets, legal and illegal immigration, moving the ange School” is Chau, a teen with misshapen and even refurbish a football field (including film away from history lesson and towards arms and legs whose dream to become an art- acquiring used goalposts from the Detroit political statement. Still, this is sure to spark ist runs afoul of the institution’s staff. Chau Lions). But this was not just about structural discussion and should be considered a strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) Being Canadian HHH The High Cost of Cheap Gas HHH1/2 (2015) 89 min. DVD: $59.95 ($250 w/PPR from (2014) 56 min. DVD: $39: public libraries; $79: high schools; $159: edu.passionriver.com). Passion River (avail. from colleges & universities. DRA. Green Planet Films. PPR. most distributors). Filmmakers Jeffrey Barbee and Mira Dutschke’s alarming Robert Cohen takes a seriocomic look documentary draws parallels between the environmental impact at Canadian identity in this self-described of hydraulic fracturing—or fracking—in American communities home movie (possibly so-called because and in regions of Africa. In both cases, fracking invariably yields many of his friends, such as comedian the same disastrous results: polluted and/or lowered water tables, Dana Gould, appear here). Working in poisoned water sources for humans and animals, toxic under- Hollywood as a sitcom writer and traveling ground gases released into the air we breathe, and other forms of extensively outside of Canada, Cohen has environmental devastation that fossil fuel companies perpetuate, encountered every variety of stereotype exiting before they can be held responsible for any long-term consequences. In the U.S., about his fellow Canadians. Here, he travels fracking was exempted (through legislation signed by George W. Bush in 2005) from across Canada, starting in Nova Scotia and such federal laws as the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act. In such places as South Africa ending in Vancouver for Canada Day, while or Botswana, however, the situation is even worse, as weak governments are trampled also incorporating comments from non- by energy corporations that acquire and pollute scarce drinking water resources before Canadians, who tend to characterize the disappearing with their profits and leaving a mess for locals to clean up. Similar problems country as clean, cold, and white. Cohen surround the exploitation of methane and other non-renewable energy sources. The thinks the widespread ignorance stems from High Cost of Cheap Gas argues that there is no clean way of extracting these resources indifference, since Canada rarely appears from the Earth, and that corporate greed and cynicism will sadly prevail when it comes in the news. Because Cohen is a comedy to issues of responsibility. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh) writer, it’s not surprising to hear from SNL

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 60 MARCH/APRIL 2016 improvements; Life Remodeled also helped create or restore programs for kids, with local mentorship providing direction. It’s excit- The Storm Makers HHH (2015) 66 min. In Khmer w/English subtitles. DVD: $24.95. First Run ing to see Cody Rouge discover a newfound Features (avail. from most distributors). pride in this upbeat film about helping to lift people out of chronic hopelessness. Recom- Filmmaker Guillaume Suon’s bleak PBS-aired POV documen- mended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) tary offers a shocking look at human trafficking in Southeast Asia. Cambodian youth, we learn, are easily sold into slavery in HHH Thailand, Malaysia, and Taiwan, beginning with false promises How to Change the World 1/2 that are made by traffickers to the victims’ starving, uneducated (2015) 109 min. DVD: $149 ($349 w/PPR). DRA. Kino Lorber Edu. families. By focusing on the terrible experiences of dead-eyed teenager and former slave Aya, along with the business practices Greenpeace may be the world’s best- of two traffickers, the film delivers a fairly complete picture of known environmental organization, but as how this industry works from one end to the other. As is the case with thousands of filmmaker Jerry Rothwell’s documentary other kids, Aya was “recruited” by a trafficker who convinced her economically des- demonstrates, its beginnings were humble perate parents that she would get a good-paying job in Thailand. Once Aya turned up and sometimes contentious. Employing a at the appointed place and time, however, her passport was confiscated and she was wide spectrum of archival material—in- sold to a man in Thailand who regularly beat and raped her, resulting in pregnancy. cluding clips from news broadcasts and Rescued by Thai police, Aya was ultimately sent back home along with her unwanted 16mm footage drawn from the group’s own child whom—she confesses late in the film—she often hits in revenge for what the vaults—Rothwell charts the movement’s toddler’s father did to her. Meanwhile, the two traffickers who agreed to be filmed and transformation from 1971, when it started as interviewed here carry on their criminal activities with impunity. Presenting a startling a ragtag collection of Vancouver, B.C., activ- and terrifying glimpse of the daily realities of the slave trade in at least one corner of ists gathering to protest a U.S. underground the world, this disturbing documentary is recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) nuclear test on an Alaskan island, up through 1979, when Greenpeace—a name adopted almost accidentally—was reorganized with flags everywhere. In city council and zoning safety require that they sleep in the nearby an elaborate international structure. Present- meetings, the white mayor is hostile towards town of Mafraq. But that proves beneficial, day interviews with surviving members of the any suggestion that she or this unfolding since they are able to interview Syrians try- original team center on the late Bob Hunter, situation is tied to racism, while community ing to survive there as well. What emerges a charismatic, guru-like reporter who spear- activists fail to obtain a “historic site” pres- is a stirring portrait of struggling residents, headed the nuclear protest and then went on ervation status for their streets. Meanwhile, including a couple who have lost two sons to lead the group’s publicity-rich encounter the college students living in the unwanted to the war, a single mother who is trying to with Russian whalers off the California coast frat house are rattled by these developments. raise her children, and a former student who (an amusing aside involves consultation of One well-spoken young man pushes back channels his energy into helping others. But the I Ching about where to concentrate their against the racism charge by expressing his the most poignant figure here is Raouf, an search). Although successful (mostly due to idealization of the stereotypical “Southern ebullient 10-year-old who becomes the film- capturing graphic and appalling footage of gentleman” as someone who values his good makers’ dedicated helper. Only late in Salam the Soviet-era ships slaughtering immature name and reputation. Eventually, some com- Neighbor is it revealed that Raouf’s refusal to whales), fissures eventually erupted within mon ground emerges when the students—in go to class stems from trauma he suffered the leadership over goals and tactics: a major search of volunteerism opportunities—are when his school in Syria was bombed. The split arose between Hunter and his unofficial invited to help locals build a community gar- insular tone adopted by some of the current second-in-command, Paul Watson, during den, which results in people from both sides American presidential candidates may make a save-the-seals campaign (which Brigitte starting to talk to one another. A surprisingly the film’s plea—that America should do more Bardot promoted). Interview clips—with hopeful documentary that begins with a to help the displaced, including inviting Hunter’s daughter and many erstwhile col- portrait of a community dividing itself along them to the United States—a hard sell, but leagues, including Patrick Moore, whose polarized racial lines but ends on a symbol of it’s a message that should be heard. Recom- environmental corporate-consulting firm is possibility, this is highly recommended. Aud: mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) considered a sellout by old friends—under- C, P. (T. Keogh) score the fact that the rancor over whether Women of ’69, Unboxed HHH Greenpeace made sensible compromises or Salam Neighbor HHH (2015) 59 min. DVD: $49.95 ($250 w/PPR from actually betrayed its mission continues even (2015) 75 min. DVD or Blu-ray: $250: public edu.passionriver.com). Passion River (avail. from today. Serving up a timely profile of a signifi- libraries; $400: colleges & universities. Tugg. DRA. most distributors). cant environmental institution, this is highly PPR. Nineteen women who graduated from recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) While the exodus of Syrian refugees into Skidmore College in 1969 and recently turned Europe has recently enflamed debate, their 65 are profiled in this talking-heads docu- Old South HHH1/2 flight has been ongoing for years, resulting mentary by filmmaker Peter Barton, which (2015) 54 min. DVD: $89: public libraries, $350: in numerous U.N.-operated camps that have serves up another portrait of aging boomers colleges & universities. Women Make Movies. PPR. become virtual cities in adjacent countries. looking back on their heady school days. At Filmed in a historically African-American The stresses that these encampments place on the heart of the film is a relic of those times: neighborhood in Athens, GA, filmmaker the host nations (as well as the U.N. budget) a Skidmore “yearbox” that replaced the con- Danielle Beverly’s Old South centers on a have mostly been discussed in emotionally ventional yearbook and consisted of artistic predominantly white college fraternity that detached numerical terms. Here, American portraits of students, full of free-spiritedness moves onto a street where black families filmmakers Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci and promise. What emerges is a sense of have lived for generations. The first sign that humanize the situation by living for a month how much American culture was changing things will not go well comes when the frat in the Za’atari camp in Jordan, recording the in the latter half of the ‘60s: the prim and house hosts an antebellum celebration that experience. In reality, the pair occupy their proper Skidmore girls who entered the 1964 includes a parade, costumes, and Confederate tent only during daylight—fears for their freshman class would soon be standing up

MARCH/APRIL 2016 61 VIDEO LIBRARIAN to campus authorities on the subjects of free spends as much time with the kids at home as expression, alcohol, sex, and more. Five years he does at school, offering insights into their later, everything was different, as issues of challenges and extracurricular interests. In pursuing a career or motherhood—or jug- many ways, Some Kind of Spark plays like the gling both—became paramount for some of opposite of the 2014 film Whiplash, where these women after college. An interesting, a music school teacher browbeats a student collective story that serves as a microcosm into greatness; here, the teachers can be stern, of American life for women during a time but are always aware that they are dealing of great change (1969 was also the year that with kids who will need encouragement in Hillary Clinton graduated from Wellesley order to persevere and improve. At the end College) and during ensuing decades, this is of the second year, the students must decide NEW! recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) whether to audition for MAP’s more rigorous third year. While not every student takes that Discoveries... America step, it’s clear that MAP has benefited all of National Parks TEEN ISSUES them in lasting ways. Recommended. Aud: 40+ titles, $24.95 ea / New titles monthly, previously released: C, P. (K. Fennessy) California Missions Colorado’s Spectacular Statue Of Liberty San Francisco Why Do Bullies Bully? HHH Grand Canyon Yellowstone LAW & CRIME Arizona Footprints Dry Tortugas (2015) 30 min. DVD: $64.95. DRA. TMW Media Of The Ancients Arches, Canyonlands Group. PPR. Lyndon B. Johnson & Natural Bridges Japanese American New Orleans Jazz Former teacher and anti-bullying expert Incarceration Hawaii Keith Deltano (host of The Complete Anti- Arresting Power HH1/2 Mount Rainier Wrangell-St Elias & Mount St Helens Cuyahoga Valley Bullying Kit, reviewed in VL-1/16) is briefly (2015) 84 min. DVD: $40 ($125 w/PPR): public Mount Rushmore Yosemite featured here in lecture clips, but the bulk of libraries; $250 w/PPR: colleges & universities. Florida Everglades Glacier & Why Do Bullies Bully? is comprised of inter- DRA. Collective Eye. Closed captioned. & Biscayne Craters Of The Moon San Antonio Missions Katmai, Lake Clark views with students who talk about dealing A timely documentary, given the wide- Olympic & Alagnak with bullies. Adding personal opinion to spread criticism of police killings of black Bennett-Watt HD Productions, Inc. the mix (one girl heartbreakingly says that males, co-filmmakers Jodi Darby, Julie Perini, Ph: 800-327-2893 • Ph: 425-392-3935 bullies prey on victims by “making them feel and Erin Yanke’s Arresting Power presents Email: [email protected] like they don’t have a place on Earth”), this a dismal rap sheet of bad behavior by of- www.Bennett-Watt.com guidance program centers on the psychology ficers in Portland, OR. The film’s political of bullies, who may be envious, often have stance is summed up by interviewee/author misplaced anger, and are usually insecure. Kristian Williams, who doesn’t want police Noting that bullies tend to project their reform but rather the outright abolition of own issues onto others, the participants of- police. Declaring that Oregon was founded fer suggestions on how to stand up and be as a white supremacist haven with anti- part of the solution. Also featuring an online black laws remaining on the books almost resource guide, this is recommended. Aud: J, up to contemporary times, the filmmakers H, P. (J. Williams-Wood) examine past cases of police brutality and bullying, including an instance in which a despondent, bereaved black man was shot EDUCATION while a counselor was en route to help him, and another involving a black Marine who had just foiled a robbery only to be fatally Some Kind of Spark HHH choked by cops who assumed that he was (2014) 85 min. DVD: $100: public libraries; $250: the criminal. And then there was the “pos- colleges & universities. Argot Pictures. PPR. sum incident,” in which white cops dumped Aside from its regular curriculum, New dead animals at a black-owned business for York’s Juilliard School also offers a two-year fun and seemed amazed that anyone took of- program for inner-city kids ages 8-12. Direc- fense. According to activists and civil-rights tor Ben Niles spent three years with several figures, a powerful union protects these bad Music Advancement Program (MAP) stu- guys in blue (although no police spokesmen dents, including Pete, a soft-spoken charmer appear on camera). Subtitled “Resisting Police who plays the flute, and Ami, an ebullient Violence in Portland, Oregon,” extras include bass player who sings with her church choir. a film premiere Q&A, bonus interviews, Pete moved to the United States in the wake and a study guide. A low-budget (especially of the Haitian earthquake. Although he never evident in some poor audio) documentary played the flute before, Pete gets off to a good specifically aimed at Portland viewers, this start, only to fall behind in the second year, should still be considered a strong optional because he had little time to practice over the purchase elsewhere due to the subject matter. summer. Ami takes inspiration from Grammy Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) Award-winning singer and bass player Esper- anza Spalding. Explaining her attraction to Pull of Gravity HH the stand-up bass, she says, “It’s tall and I’m (2015) 80 min. DVD: $50 ($150 w/PPR): public tall. It just says, ‘I’m here’.” Other subjects libraries; $295 w/PPR: colleges & universities. include Rahman (trombone), Kari (violin), DRA. Collective Eye. Closed captioned. and Alejandro (drums and percussion). Niles The “gravity” in the title of this docu-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 62 MARCH/APRIL 2016 You Belong to Me: Sex, Race and Murder on the Suwanee River HHH (2015) 88 min. DVD: $19.95. Vision Films (avail. from most distributors). Filmmaker John Cork’s grim documentary tells an unusual story of racial injustice, with many a surprising development extending over two decades. In 1952, Ruby McCollum, a well- educated and relatively affluent African-American mother of four in Live Oak, FL, shot and killed Dr. Clifford Leroy Adams in his own office. The murder of Adams, a white man, was officially tied to an argument over a $116 medical bill, and McCollum stood trial before an all-white jury and judge. McCollum’s attorney did not fight the charge but rather the perceived motive, arguing that McCollum did not kill Adams over a bill, but because he had raped her repeatedly and fathered a child by her. Most of this evidence was ruled inadmissible by the judge, who even went so far as to order the jury not to look at the child when she was in the courtroom. McCollum was found guilty and sentenced to be executed, but her story became even more complex with the entrance of two dogged journalists (one being Zora Neale Hurston) whose investigations were stymied by the same judge. Combining archival materials with interviews of many people familiar with the case (including one of the jurors, and members of McCollum’s family), You Belong to Me is a disturbing story of race and justice in the Jim Crow-era American South. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) mentary relates to recidivism, as many application of citizen science, Bluebird Man released prisoners soon find themselves tells the story of Alfred Larson (now in his incarcerated again after a failed attempt to mid-90s) and his late wife Hilda, who took return to society. The film focuses on three their senior passion for a dwindling species Philadelphia men struggling to reboot their of native birds in the remote mountains lives after years of criminal activity and in the borderlands of Idaho and Oregon time behind bars. El Sawyer, one of the men and helped stage a remarkable comeback. in the spotlight, shares director credit with The bluebirds, indigenous to the area, Jon Kaufman. In many ways, the odds are were fighting a losing battle at the beaks stacked against these men: 67 percent of and claws of other birds such as sparrows released ex-offenders wind up back in prison and starlings that were introduced to the within three years, creating a never-ending continent during the colonization of the loop in which career criminals become Americas. With passion, kindness, and career convicts. All three men share very simple hard work, Larson has built small similar problems: a tumultuous upbringing birdhouses (to serve as the “voids” that in poverty-stricken neighborhoods, minimal are found naturally in some trees), which education and no marketable skills, and net- he has distributed across the region, and works of friends who offer the worst possible tended for more than 35 years. This has camaraderie (many having also served time entailed tagging to keep tabs on the birds’ in prison). The family members, peers, and breeding process and lifecycles (ensuring parole officers of the spotlighted subjects are that there are actual hatching chicks and interviewed, but no one seems to be deeply healthy adult birds). Larson, who is believed concerned with scope of the problem, and to have banded more than 27,000 bluebirds, even the three men seem fairly lackadaisical is a remarkable figure who illustrates the about their respective crises, rarely showing power of one individual to change the world any great remorse for their actions. Pull of for the good. Extras include additional Gravity was obviously created with the best scenes, and segments from the TV series of intentions—clearly, a solution needs to be Outdoor Idaho. Highly recommended. Aud: found for the recidivism revolving door—but H, C, P. (C. Block) it’s hard to feel much sympathy for the irre- sponsible individuals profiled here. Optional. Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) HHH1/2 (2014) 92 min. DVD: $39.95 ($125 w/PPR): public libraries & high schools; $295 w/PPR: colleges & NATURE, MATH & SCIENCE universities. DRA. Collective Eye. Closed captioned. Director Costa Boutsikaris’s informative documentary centers on various designs Bluebird Man HHH1/2 for sustainable ecosystems, which are (2014) 28 min. DVD: $26.95: public libraries; $49: sometimes found in unexpected places. high schools; $100: colleges & universities. DRA. The governing idea is to create a symbi- Green Planet Films. PPR. otic relationship between biology and A touching documentary on the effective technology that maximizes yield while

MARCH/APRIL 2016 63 VIDEO LIBRARIAN HEALTH & FITNESS The Brain HHH1/2 (2015) 2 discs. 360 min. DVD: $34.99 ($64.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62789-470-8. Bite Size HHH1/2 The human brain—a sealed, isolated chamber—is “nature’s (2015) 90 min. DVD: $24.99. Bond/360 (avail. perplexing masterpiece,” a window to the outside world, and from www.amazon.com). director of everything we do. This six-part PBS-aired minise- In this cinema vérité look at America’s ries, hosted by Dr. David Eagleman, takes viewers on a tour of child obesity epidemic, director Corbin Bill- the brain, the “ultimate storyteller.” Electrochemical signals ings eschews interviewing authorities and are the “common currency of the brain,” sorting streams of eminences wearing white lab coats, instead data in a “massive mind mash.” Unlike other animals, humans specifically concentrating on four adolescents are helpless at birth, but the brain relies on sensory informa- from different backgrounds who are strug- tion (smell, touch, seeing, and hearing) to build a lifetime of experience. Eagleman gling with weight-related health problems notes that Romanian orphans who were forced to live their early years deprived of and issues. Davion’s girth makes him a candi- most sensory stimulation or human contact suffered ill effects that could persist date for diabetes and an early grave, but he is years later. Humans are social animals, so the brain can provide tools for empathy, more worried about his endangered standing or succumb to the group contagion of hate, stereotyping, bullying, and even geno- on the school football team, not only because cide. Other topics covered here include the teen brain and its struggle with impulse of his health problems but also because of his control; the automatic, unconscious actions of our brain; the question of free will; raging outbursts at being bullied for being decision making; the importance of our “gut feelings”; memory; and aging. The “fat.” KeAnna equates eating whatever she final episode features speculation about the future, ranging from cryogenic “brain wants with empowered confidence, even as preservation” to the possibility that we may become non-biological beings in which school health advisors try to set her straight our brains, if not our bodies, survive our death. Eagleman clearly and enthusiasti- (and cope with the loss of exercise gear due to cally explains associated concepts, ranging from a boy’s amazing ability to quickly budget cuts). Moises is the computer-gamer/ perform intricate cup stacking, to how human desire for instant gratification can film-fan son of a macho dad who criticizes his lead us to ignore dire consequences. Released in conjunction with Eagleman’s couch-potato ways; ironically, it’s the active, companion book, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees) slim father whose bad eating habits catch up with him first. Emily is no longer morbidly obese, but only thanks to long, expensive using low-impact tools such as rain tanks a major waterway running from an upper therapy, coupled with discipline imposed by her parents. The moral of the narrative here is and manmade bee hives. Inhabit visits a basin in Eastern Oregon to the Pacific coast that the kids aren’t in this alone, and families number of sites where permaculture—short in Northern California. Before the arrival and peer groups should clean up their own for “permanent agriculture”—is working of white settlers, the Klamath was at the diets and unhealthy habits as well. Bonus remarkably well. An outdoor laboratory in core of a way of life for multiple Native features include a cartoon. Recommended. Vermont regularly experiments with dif- American tribes. Over time, the newcom- Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) ferent means of enhancing productivity ers re-routed parts of the river, drained it in vegetable and fruit gardens by spreading for irrigation, polluted it with industry, rainwater through simple ditches running and filled it with the debris of deforesta- States of Grace HHH1/2 downhill, without any pipes or equipment. tion—all of which significantly reduced (2014) 74 min. DVD: $95: public libraries, $350: colleges & universities; Blu-ray: $120: public Another farmer uses certain plants that at- the salmon population and deeply affected libraries, $375: colleges & universities. New Day tract pollinators—i.e., helpful insects—that the tribes. Damming up the Klamath in Films. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-57448- in turn enrich the soil and deliver robust multiple locations made things far, far 401-4 (dvd), 978-1-57448-402-1 (blu-ray). kale and other crops. In the suburbs, where worse—warming the cold water (which is Dr. Grace Dammann, a high-profile San 40 million acres of American lawns absorb necessary for salmon) in lakes that were Francisco physician and clinic founder who is 3,000 tons of pesticide every year, some formed by the dams. During the 1970s, revered in AIDS and humanitarian circles, was homeowners are beginning to implement conflicts between tribes with legal rights severely mangled in a car crash on the Golden permaculture practices in order to grow to fish vs. farmers and loggers came to a Gate Bridge in 2008. Having long ministered their own food. Some of the most interest- crisis point, with the federal government to others in crises, she is now an invalid, rely- ing material here involves permaculture in stepping in to create the Endangered Spe- ing on her longtime domestic partner turned cities, especially rooftops (which soak up cies Act and the courts supporting the full-time caregiver Nancy “Fu” Schroeder, rainwater and help decrease the volume tribes. All sides were hit by further federal while also coping with the dawning ado- of water flowing into gutters) and in play- decisions that wound up damaging both lescence of their adopted daughter Sabrina grounds, where kids can healthfully snack farmers and then tribal fishing, setting the (who is herself afflicted with cerebral palsy). on fruit and vegetables growing onsite. stage for protracted negotiations between These strong women belong to a supportive Offering an inspiring look at sustainable all parties to find a workable compromise California Zen Buddhist community (author agriculture practices for those willing to about how to save the dying Klamath. A Isabel Allende is part of their circle of friends), partner with nature, this is highly recom- River Between Us includes interviews with but the torturous programs of therapy and re- mended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh) former Oregon governors, current Secretary habilitation test their loyalties severely. Film- of the Interior Sally Jewell, tribal represen- makers Mark Lipman and Helen S. Cohen’s A River Between Us HHH1/2 tatives, farmers, and others who have a States of Grace not only shows the dynamics (2015) 90 min. DVD: $39: public libraries; $89: stake in this tragic issue. While not fully of a non-traditional American family but high schools; $225: colleges & universities. DRA. resolved, however, there is reason—as the also probes the limits of the caregiver/patient Green Planet Films. PPR. film demonstrates—to be hopefully opti- relationship, where fatigue and desperation Filmmaker J. Martin’s painful but en- mistic about the future fate of the mighty can set in even among individuals who seem lightening documentary tells the story of Klamath River. Highly recommended. Aud: formidably armed—both intellectually and historical conflict over the Klamath River, H, C, P. (T. Keogh) spiritually—to meet the challenges. A power-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 64 MARCH/APRIL 2016 ties together the poses and includes mirror Sansone’s moves and energy, Spotlight on Fitness cat/cow, downward facing dog, reverse, Walking Off the Pounds presents a warm- and bridge, along with a bonus “Guided up intro with walking in place, sidestep, Meditation” at the close. Offering tips kicks, knee lifts, and side taps. Noting Couples Workouts for modifications while focusing on “it does not matter if it’s right or left, for Health and “self-care” and restoring one’s energy, you can’t do this program wrong,” Happiness: Core & this beginner’s instructional guide is Sansone and crew incorporate arm Flexibility HHH recommended. [Note: also newly avail- reaches, hip touches, hamstring curls, (2015) 35 min. DVD: able in the Element series are Cardio & lunges, turns, hip swivels, and step-taps, $14.99. BayView Conditioning Yoga and Targeted Toning adding intensity and speed along the Entertainment (avail. from Yoga.] Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) way. Also featuring a cool-down walk most distributors). and the mat-based “Healthy Abs & Fitness instructor and couples thera- Kathy Smith: FastFit Back Session,” this solid program finds pist Gina Guddat demonstrates with 10-Minute Miracle Sansone offering tips and encourage- ment throughout, reminding viewers the help of partner Larry Berg in this HHH1/2 that “any time you feel like walking, exercise program designed for two (2013) 50 min. DVD: people. “Stay active! Stay healthy! Stay $14.99. BayView it’s the right time.” Recommended. together!” is the motto here, and while Entertainment (avail. from [Note: also newly available in the Leslie the unlit candelabra in the apartment most distributors). Sansone—Just Walk series is 5 Boosted backdrop comes across as a tad corny, Longtime fitness ma- Miles!] Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) the idea that couples can help each oth- ven Kathy Smith adds to her extensive er with balance while also improving library of exercise programs with this Simplified Tai Chi for their relationship seems solid. Featur- collection of 10-minute mix-and-match Beginners HHH ing a warm-up with stretching twists, workouts. Offering an intro overview of (2015) 140 min. DVD: hamstring pulls, and knee-lifts, Core & this regimen that incorporates dumb- $29.95. YMAA Publication Flexibility incorporates a lot of mat work, bells and is designed for “maximum Center (avail. from most including three levels of lean backs results in minimum time,” FastFit distributors). ISBN: 978-1- 59439-292-4. (with rounded back and holding on to 10-Minute Miracle features Smith and thighs), oblique lean backs (with joined four participants (one demonstrating Vancouver-based tai hands), tap pulses, reverse crunch and modifications) going through “Body chi master Helen Liang leg extensions, oblique hip lifts, three Basics,” with squat, rear-dip lunge, hosts this detailed primer on the 24- varieties of plank moves measured by bicep curl, pike, and curl pulse moves; posture short form of tai chi, derived time not reps, and a “super couple” “Total Body Toner,” which focuses on from the ancient long form over the low back lift. Also featuring stretching strength-training combos with rows, years for a simplified and standardized segments for hamstrings, back (“dead dips, shoulder press, triceps kick, and practice. Liang provides a walkthrough bug stretch”), and legs, this is recom- curtsy squat; “Fat Burning Blast,” cen- of the moves in a garden setting before mended. [Note: also newly available tering on cardio with standing crunches heading into a studio with a white back- in the Couples Workouts for Health and and pivot combos; and “Flat Abs Fast” ground, where she explains underlying Happiness series are Cardio Sweat and (called “Miracle Abs” on the DVD philosophy and guidelines (tying in the Strength & Tone Together.] Aud: P. (J. box), which includes mat work moves head, eyes, and torso to center the focus; Williams-Wood) such as cannonball, side crunches, and paying attention to body placement Superman position. Finishing up with in order to avoid injury) as she goes Element: Beginner a “Stretch & Flex” segment for “when through the five sections of instructions HHH you want to rejuvenate throughout the for moves that include “Wild Horse Level Yoga Parts Its Mane,” “Repulse Monkey,” (2015) 78 min. DVD: day,” this fine entry in the long-running $14.98. Anchor Bay series is highly recommended. Aud: P. and “Grasp the Sparrow’s (Peacock’s) Tail.” Providing front and rear views, Entertainment (avail. from (J. Williams-Wood) most distributors). Closed along with help from Master Chenhan captioned. Yang, this challenging but compre- This latest addition Leslie Sansone— hensive beginner’s guide to short to the extensive library Just Walk: Walking form tai chi is recommended. Aud: P. of Element exercise titles is hosted Off the Pounds (J. Williams-Wood) by Hollywood trainer Alanna Zabel. HHH Filmed in front of a soothing Shangri-la (2015) 66 min. DVD: Coming Soon ocean backdrop, Beginner Level Yoga in- $14.98. Anchor Bay cludes two routines. “The Foundations Entertainment (avail. from Jillian Michaels: Hot Program” incorporates various Hatha most distributors). Body, Healthy Mommy postures for flexibility and strength- Upbeat instructor Leslie Sansone is (Gaiam, DVD: $14.98, building, with Zabel coaxing viewers back with this latest addition to her avail. Mar. 15). Fitness to “imagine your feet are like roots of a indoor walking series, featuring a trio personality Jillian Mi- plant” for moves including mountain of segments that when combined add chaels hosts this exer- pose, warrior, table top, plank (half, up to a three-mile workout (around 15 cise compilation that full, and modified), sphinx, cobra, and minutes per mile). Backed by a group includes three workouts child’s pose. “The Slow Flow Program” of 10 women and men who spiritedly designed for new mothers.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 65 VIDEO LIBRARIAN DVD PICKS Sponsored by BayView Entertainment ful documentary that touches on numerous and LGBT—this is highly recommended. subjects—medical, biographical, religious, Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) CHILDBIRTH & PARENTING

The Mama Sherpas HHH (2015) 77 min. DVD: $24.99. Bond/360 (avail. from www.amazon.com). Director Brigid Maher decided to make a film about midwives after having one child by Cesarean section and another by vagi- nal birth (the former was a disappointing experience; the latter was not). As in previous documentaries from producers Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein (The Business of Being Born, Breastmilk), Maher here draws attention to unnecessary medical procedures that benefit hospitals at the expense of patients, but she focuses on practices across the country where midwives collaborate THE UNIVERSE OF with doctors. Whitney Pinger, a certified nurse midwife (CNM) KEITH HARING at George Washington University Hospital, serves as a bridge between obstetricians D5003 $19.99 and patients (an inter-title explains that certified midwives are authorized to practice A friend of Andy Warhol, of Grace Jones and of in five states, while CNMs provide care in all 50 states). Pinger believes that America’s Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring was the 30% Cesarean rate is too high—particularly since the World Health Organization wunderkind of 1980’s pop art. His sleek style and recommends a rate of 15% (fewer C-sections result in a lower infant mortality rate). inimitable line earned him instant and global With proper training, Dr. Annette Fineberg at Sutter Medical Group believes it is just success during his brief but meteoric career. In as safe to deliver twins and breech babies vaginally, although doctors routinely per- this powerful and moving lm by Claudia Clausen, form C-sections in those instances. The Mama Sherpas features several actual births, Haring’s friends and lifelong accomplices – Kenny including a water birth and a breech birth. In one case involving a Somali immigrant, Scharf,Scharf Yoko Ono, Tony Shafrazi, and many others a midwife recommends a C-section because the patient has diabetes and other risk – trace the personal and artistic journey of this extraordinary artist. factors. While it isn’t what she wants, the woman realizes that it’s in her baby’s best interest, so she assents. This incident underscores Maher’s point that while there is nothing fundamentally wrong with C-sections, their frequency in American hospitals has grown out of control. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)

Janeane Garofolo, porn star turned sex edu- RELATIONSHIPS & SEXUALITY cator Nina Hartley, and Clinton-era Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders, who was forced to resign after she advocated for the teaching of Sticky: A (Self) Love Story HHH masturbation in schools. Accurately labeled (2015) 71 min. DVD: $19.95. Vision Films (avail. with a DVD cover tag reading “Warning: from most distributors). Contains Graphic Material,” this is recom- Filmmaker Nicholas Tana’s documentary mended for more adventurous collections. about masturbation approaches the subject Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) from various angles, beginning with histori- cal evidence that autoeroticism has always been a part of the human experience. From FOOD & SPIRITS 30 MINUTES TO FITNESS: here, the discussion shifts to American soci- ety’s discomfort with the topic, as evidenced ABS & CORE by the scandals surrounding such celebrities A Few Good Pie Places HHH BAY2123 $14.99 as Pee-Wee Herman, who was arrested for (2015) 60 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS This DVD has two 30 minute workouts that are allegedly polishing the bishop (yes, the film Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62789-486-9. packed with effective ab and core moves. Whether features an array of slang terms) in an adult The American cultural staple of pie is the you do the complete workouts or choose to do just a theater. Sticky also looks at a slew of political subject of this look at tasty desserts served at 10 minute segment, you will strengthen your abs, downfalls resulting from all manner of sex popular locales across the country. Touting trim your waistline and truly improve your overall core function. Included are standing waistline moves, scandal, not just masturbation. Pornography pie’s elements of comfort, flavor, and simplic- plank work training and various sit up variations all as an aid to masturbation is discussed by ity, enthusiasts here call it “the perfect food,” targeting the core area. It’s time to stop doing sit ups Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flynt, but noting that due to the fruit, “it’s practically that are ineffective and harmful to your back and the film is more interesting when it travels good for you.” Narrated by Rick Sebak, this start using Abs & Core. down unexpected roads, such as a look at PBS-aired food travelogue takes viewers to female masturbation emerging as a kind of spots including Portage Pie in Westfield, NY, cultural-political right, championed by the where the Thayer family brags about having feminist movement of the 1970s, with self- made a pie for Ken Burns; Ikeda’s Country Order from your distributor or love becoming a form of self-validation in an Market in Auburn, CA, which features enor- call BayView at 201-488-6110 oppressive society. Also covered are cultural mously-domed apple pies; Portland, ME, myths linking masturbation to sociopathic to enjoy Two Fat Cats whoopee pies; and WWW. BAYVIEWENTERTAINMENT. COM behavior. Other interviewees include actress Virginia’s Woodruff’s Store, a gospel-filled

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 66 MARCH/APRIL 2016 home to sweet potato and fried pies. From a self-service honor system set up at Vermont’s Poorhouse Pies, to Seattle’s A la Mode bakery’s Advanced Style HHH “Blue Hawaiian” signature pie, and more, A (2014) 72 min. DVD: $19.99. Bond/360 (avail. from www.amazon.com). Few Good Pie Places wraps up with Pie Day Advanced Style slots neatly between Bill Cunningham New York festival events in Minnesota. Also includ- (VL-9/11) and Albert Maysles’s Iris (VL-9/15), since the documen- ing bonus featurettes, this mouthwatering tary celebrates fashionable New York women who are over 60. If foodie road trip is recommended. Aud: P. photographer Cunningham casts his net widely, blogger Ari Seth (J. Williams-Wood) Cohen gravitates towards more eccentric style mavens, like Iris Apfel, star of Iris (who also appears here). Cohen says he launched Just Eat It HHH1/2 his blog shortly after moving to New York: everywhere he went, (2015) 73 min. DVD: $350. Peg Leg Films (dist. he noticed older women treating the city’s sidewalks like their by Bullfrog Films). PPR. SDH captioned. ISBN: 1- own personal runway, and he took inspiration from their confidence and creativity. 94154-548-3. Director Lina Plioplyte profiles seven women, ranging in age from 62 to 95. Not all In a headline-grabbing stunt that would are wealthy, but all spend a substantial portion of their income on clothing. They see be funny if it weren’t so sobering, Canadian themselves as artists, although 93-year-old Ilona Royce Smithkin actually teaches on filmmaking couple Jen Rustemeyer and Grant the subject (her portrait of Ayn Rand adorns many of Rand’s books). Tziporah Salamon, Baldwin, after learning that 40 percent of 62, works in a vintage shop, so she has access to many unique items, although it can all food in North America goes to waste, take her years to construct the perfect outfit. Debra Rapaport, 67, saves money by determined to live for six months off discards making her own bracelets, which add to her sculptural look. Thanks to Cohen’s blog (with perhaps occasional handouts from and ensuing book, the ladies here become stars, and Plioplyte captures their photo family and friends). The couple’s docu-diary shoots and talk show appearances. The tone throughout is buoyant, so much so that a accompanies interview sidebars from the death at the end barely registers, but then Cohen’s coterie does take a Holly Golightly likes of authors Jonathan Bloom and Tristram approach to life: have fun, look great, and don’t stop dancing until the music stops. Stuart, along with farmers and insiders, about Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) the culture of wretched excess and corporate pathology (bigger portions, more food than is needed) that results in millions of tons computers (conducting all of his business up facts and figures, the film emphasizes of edibles being consigned to trash bins. in person or over the phone). Lorenzo Ré thoughts and impressions, making for In fact, the protagonists’ dumpster-diving constructs hats for designers such as Philip a dreamlike journey through the 20th leaves them overwhelmed with more than Treacy. For each one, Ré creates wooden century, although Swinton does focus on they could possibly eat (and Grant gains an molds that he drills and sands by hand. a few notable figures, such as Alice Guy, a unflattering amount of weight). Presenting Bruno Légeron, a fourth-generation crafts- Gaumont secretary who became the first both the full-length documentary and a man, applies feathers and fake flowers to director of narrative features, and Sergei 50-minute abridged version, extras include a clothing for Lanvin and Balenciaga. He Eisenstein, the Russian filmmaker who study guide. Offering real food for thought in has managed Maison Légeron for 35 years, used cross-cutting to stir the emotions. a hungry world, this engaging and informa- although some of his employees have been Although the filmmakers don’t identify tive film is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, with the business even longer. His is one of the clips, which come mostly from national P. (C. Cassady) three such houses in Paris, where there used archives, some familiar faces appear, such to be dozens. All three of Bernard’s subjects as Charlie Chaplin in a 1984-like sequence lack successors, and they worry about the from Modern Times, and Julian West in Carl BeautyBEAUTY & Fashion & FASHION future of their ateliers. Some of their peers Theodor Dreyer’s Vampyr (the end credits have already sold their businesses to Chanel list over 200 films). As the telephone be- and Dior, but at the expense of autonomy. came widely available, new jobs opened Handmade with Love in France HHH According to Lognon, if he sold out to Cha- up for women, with switchboard operators (2014) 70 min. DVD: $99.95: public libraries; nel, he would “cease to exist.” An interest- helping to establish these connections. $350: colleges & universities. The Cinema Guild. ing niche portrait of a little-seen aspect of With the invention of the Dictaphone, PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 0-7815-1529-7. haute couture, this is recommended. Aud: secretaries were able to record a boss’s mes- The prevailing myth is that couture ap- C, P. (K. Fennessy) sages, saving time and increasing efficiency. parel costs more because a designer’s name is Radio, TV, and film also connected people, attached, but the reality is that the clothing the latter whether they watched motion takes longer to make, no matter how high COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY pictures in a theater or shared home mov- the mark-up. Director Julie Georgia Bernard ies with friends and family. The computer profiles three French craft houses that bring served as a business aid in the post-war designer concepts to life. In all cases, the Dreams Rewired HHH years, long before it was as ubiquitous artisans stress that they cannot rush their (2015) 85 min. DVD: $29.98 ($398 w/PPR from in homes as radio and TV—devices that work, while also noting that they receive www.icarusfilms.com). Icarus Films Home Video computers have either supplanted, wed, little respect (they miss the days when they (available from most distributors, Mar. 22). PPR. or incorporated. And on a poetic note, dealt directly with designers rather than Closed captioned. Swinton says that “the city is transformed brand representatives). Gérard Lognon spe- Tilda Swinton narrates co-directors into the largest set of all time.” Of course, cializes in pleats that have adorned runway Manu Luksch, Martin Reinhart, and the inter-connective wonders of technol- models for Chanel and Dior. He named Thomas Tode’s experimental documentary ogy have also come at a price, including one of his workrooms after Hermés, since that draws on archival film clips to shed reduced privacy and increased surveillance he’s pleated millions of their carré scarves. light on today’s wired world—revisiting on the part of the government and other Lognon is so firmly rooted in the past that communications innovations of the past, interested parties. A thought-provoking, he brags about the number of cigarettes he beginning with the telephone and end- meditative film, this is recommended. Aud: smokes and takes pride in his ignorance of ing with the computer. Instead of serving C, P. (K. Fennessy)

MARCH/APRIL 2016 67 VIDEO LIBRARIAN SPORTS, GAMES & RECREATION CRAFTS, ARTS & HOBBIES

Back on Board: Greg Louganis HHH Pedestal Dining Table HHH1/2 (2015) 87 min. DVD: $59.95 ($350 w/PPR from (2015) 100 min. DVD: $19.95. The Taunton Press edu.passionriver.com). Passion River (avail. from (dist. by The AV Cafe). PPR. ISBN: 978-1-63186- most distributors). 457-5. This HBO-aired documentary about four- Would-be Nick Offermans (let alone Ron time Olympic gold medal award-winning Swansons—both Swanson and his Parks high-diver Greg Louganis—who was once and Recreation character Nick share a love of a household name—opens with the star fi ne woodworking) will enjoy this detailed athlete’s California home in foreclosure. instructional video on how to construct a Even as he won unprecedented honors in beautiful pedestal dining table. Part of the the sport throughout the 1980s, Louganis acclaimed Fine Woodworking video workshop felt hostility from peers not just for his series, this program features woodworker homosexuality (an open secret in the dive Timothy Rousseau, who takes viewers from community) but also because of his Cold inspiration to completion, covering all War friendships with competing high-div- points in-between. Rousseau lays out the ers from the U.S.S.R. (earning Louganis tools and shares techniques for potentially the pejorative “commie fag”). Lucrative tricky processes such as working with mor- commercial-endorsement deals failed to ma- tise-and-tenon joints, gluing pieces together, terialize, which would have been a different and hand-shaping the wood. Like many art story if Louganis were straight, says a former forms, good woodworkers put their intellect, coach here. While breathtaking Olympic heart, and soul into their pieces—qualities feats took place in the public eye, bad man- that some believe are transferred to the com- agement and regrettable personal/business pleted works. I’ve certainly felt that with a few relationships behind the scenes culminated guitars (the good ones that a guitar player in Louganis disclosing his HIV-positive “bonds” with). Also featuring a digital plan status to the public on The Oprah Winfrey for the table, this excellent how-to is highly Show in 1995, following up with a candid recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block) 1996 memoir, Breaking the Surface. Although media judgment was harsh (a head wound during a dangerous dive could have exposed THE ARTS Video Acquisition = bystanders to the champ’s tainted blood), the LGBT community embraced Louganis’s candor. Here, fi lmmaker Cheryl Furjanic Amy Schumer: Live at the Apollo HHH parallels Louganis’s symbolic redemption (2015) 65 min. HBO Home Entertainment (avail. on the games circuit (he now advises young from most distributors). DVD: $19.98. Closed Olympians) with recent breakthroughs in captioned. gay rights. A solid sports profi le with added Late in this HBO Comedy Special, super- LGBT interest, this is recommended. Aud: star comedienne Amy Schumer admits to C, P. (C. Cassady) being considered a sexually-oriented standup ? Walk On HHH (2013) 82 min. Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $125: public libraries & high schools; $250: colleges & universities. Walk On (avail. from www. = walkondocumentary.com). PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-4951- 6479-8. With behind-the-scenes assists from Hollywood-celeb produc- ers (such as actor Alfred Molina, who also appears here), director Mark Bashian’s documentary reminds viewers that the HIV virus, AIDS, and unprotected sex are all still vital public-health issues, as well as sources of ignorance and fear, even though the disease has faded from the public awareness since the panic-ridden 1990s. The fi lm’s virtue lies in the way it embeds its messages in an inspiring personal sports narrative: California’s Joseph Kibler was born with the virus (following infi delity by his late father), while his twin brother died in infancy. Joseph was initially unable to walk, but now manages short firm orders approval plans distances—with supreme effort and determination—using a cane. Addressing school groups and training for a six-mile AIDS walk in L.A., Joseph meets other individuals shelf-ready who have conquered disabilities, although not necessarily AIDS-related (such as a foreign imports small distributors wheelchair-bound casualty of a rock-climbing mishap, who is now an award-winning out of print titles streaming video “standup” comic). Joseph also talks with comic actress Regina Hall (whose Q&A about Joseph’s sex life is simultaneously tacky and highly educational). An entertaining and www.ActionLibraryMedia.com enlightening documentary, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) 800-886-4408

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 68 MARCH/APRIL 2016 comic. Which is both no surprise and also a bit of a revelation, given that during the previous hour or so, while still delivering on the raunch quotient with absolutely no in- hibitions, she largely avoids uttering George Carlin’s infamous “seven dirty words.” STREAMING VIDEO FOR ALL LIBRARIES Candid about insecurities over her body and being non-supermodel-skeletal, Schumer describes her culture shock going from the East Coast to work in Hollywood, where everyone is incredibly “hot,” and a personal trainer worked heroically to get Schumer to New, State-of-the-Art lose 10 pounds for her own movie project (unnamed, but clearly Trainwreck). Schumer tackles STDs, bodily functions, and euphe- Video Platform! mistic names for a wild variety of kinky sex acts, sometimes with uproarious, red-faced audience feedback. Filmed at Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater, and directed by Chris Rock, this entertaining standup per- Improved formance by the current female comic du jour is sure to be popular. Recommended. Performance Aud: P. (C. Cassady) and Speed Cavedigger HHH More Powerful (2015) 39 min. DVD: $24.99 ($199.99 w/PPR). Dreamscape Media. Closed captioned. Searching and Filmmaker Jeffrey Karoff’s Oscar-nomi- Browsing nated short documentary serves up a portrait of Ra Paulette, a septuagenarian Taos man New Video who uses hand tools to dig into northern New Mexico’s sandstone mountains, as he Playback Controls sculpts elaborate, intricate caves that feature soaring arches, sunroofs, and Art Deco–style New Ways to fi ligree—and even sometimes added mirrors Share Content to resemble ponds of water. Paulette is clearly a somewhat obsessive man, describing his More passion—which he’s indulged for a quarter- century—in quiet, almost reverential tones. Customization Although he is untrained in art, architecture, Options geology, or structural engineering, the resul- tant caverns are extraordinarily beautiful. Redesigned, Paulette’s avocation is not, however, without NEW problems: his work is hardly remunerative, FEATURES! Fully Responsive as his supportive wife admits, and the artist Interface repeatedly falls into disagreements with the NEW patrons who do help subsidize his efforts DESIGN! New Support (sometimes for years rather than the months originally agreed upon) when they consider NEW Center and “their” cave fi nished and he insists on con- CONTENT! Admin Portal tinuing to embellish it at their expense. Cave-ins are also a constant danger: Paulette must abandon one project due to a collapse he only narrowly escapes. Paulette remains un- deterred, however, and Cavedigger closes with See why 13 million users love the artist’s decision to devote his remaining years to creating a magnum opus that will Films On Demand! be a summation of his vision—which might take a decade to complete. Karoff deftly FREE Trial: www.Infobase.com/TrialAD16 captures Paulette’s eccentricity and artistic ambition in gentle, understated fashion in this engaging profi le. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)

How to Smell a Rose HHH1/2 Facts On File | Chelsea House | Bloom’s | Ferguson’s | The World Almanac® | Films Media Group | Learn360 (2014) 62 min. DVD: $19.95. Kino Lorber (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. (800) 322-8755 • [email protected] Anyone who is enthralled with docu-

MARCH/APRIL 2016 69 VIDEO LIBRARIAN mentaries about filmmakers will treasure this wonderful late-life profile of Richard “Ricky” Leacock, whose career achievements Love’s Labour’s Lost & Love’s Labour’s Won: Special included camerawork on Robert J. Flaherty’s Edition HHH1/2 1948 classic Louisiana Story and who revo- (2015) 2 discs. 288 min. DVD: $54.99, Blu-ray: $59.99. Opus Arte (dist. lutionized nonfiction cinema via portable by Naxos of America). cameras and synchronized sound recording The Bard staged in Downton Abbey style is both the great attrac- on the landmark 1960 documentary Primary. tion and potential downfall of director Christopher Luscombe’s Filmmakers Les Blank and Gina Leibrecht 2015 Royal Shakespeare Company double bill. Because Luscombe visited with Leacock in 2000 at his farm added a substantial helping of 1920s musical theatre to the mix in Normandy, where the legendary cinema here, the combination might easily have backfired, but instead artist offered respectful recollections of his proves to be exceptionally agreeable. The inspiration is to treat cinematic career—most notably, his work Much Ado About Nothing (presented here as Love’s Labour Won), a with Robert Drew, D.A. Pennebaker, and the tale of a squabbling couple forced to confess their love through trickery, as a sequel to Maysles brothers in developing and perfect- Love’s Labour’s Lost, which is about friends who vow to abjure romance for scholarship, ing the technology and style that helped only to have their commitment sorely tested. Both plays are performed by the same bring about the similar “direct cinema” and cast (although the characters’ names differ), updated to the early 1900s (the first takes cinema vérité approaches to filmmaking. But place immediately before World War I; the second in the war’s aftermath), and set at Leacock displays an even greater passion an elegant country estate. Some of the dialogue, moreover, has been transformed by when talking about his love of cooking. Nigel Hess into songs sometimes reminiscent of Gilbert and Sullivan and occasionally Indeed, a surprisingly large portion of the of Noel Coward, which are nicely handled by the expert cast that is headed by Edward film follows Leacock as he shops for fresh Bennett as Berowne/Benedick and Michelle Terry as Rosaline/Beatrice, with Nick Ha- vegetables at a local market, cooks for the verson adding lowbrow humor as Costard/Dogberry. Even those unconvinced by the camera, and shares amusing stories regarding argument that Much Ado About Nothing can serve as a sequel to the earlier Love’s Labour his efforts to prepare various gourmet dishes. Lost will likely be disarmed by this splendid mounting, with a 20th-century setting and Also prominent are scenes of the elderly but operetta-like approach that prove to be surprisingly persuasive. Extras include audio still spirited Leacock enjoying the serenity commentaries, interviews, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and a cast gallery. Highly of the French countryside while observing recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek) what makes the experience so special. In some ways, How to Smell a Rose is a double send-off of two filmmaking greats: Leacock such as the Sonics and Merrilee Rush. O’Day path through the main building’s central died in 2011, with Blank passing away two also promoted dances and concerts, which courtyard. In 2008, the museum’s director years later. Highly recommended. Aud: C, led to an anti-trust lawsuit, although the resigns, and his successor is left to deal with P. (P. Hall) court cleared him of all charges. All of the the matter. The frustration also extends to DJs here enjoyed their work, but also had to some staff, although dedicated curators are I Am What I Play HHH contend with stalkers, substance abuse, and shown still trying to add to their collections (2015) 104 min. DVD: $59: public libraries; the move towards Internet broadcasting. By as the process drags on. Hoogendijk’s fly- $299 w/PPR: colleges & universities. Seventh Art embracing some changes (but not all), they on-the-wall access makes for an intriguing Releasing. found ways to stay relevant. Recommended. portrait of people struggling with the sorts Roger King’s I Am What I Play profiles four Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) of issues confronting many public institu- major-market disc jockeys, who recount their tions nowadays, although not usually to this biographies while also detailing the radio The New Rijksmuseum HHH extreme. The film ends with the 2013 reopen- landscape from the 1960s up to today. New (2014) 131 min. In Dutch, English, French & ing of the Rijksmuseum, which is presented York’s Meg Griffin, who works at Sirius XM, Spanish w/English subtitles. DVD: $27.95. First as a grand celebration, but is truly the result originally studied to become a veterinarian. Run Features (avail. from most distributors). of 10 years of exasperation. Recommended. On a whim, she gave college radio a try, and One might expect a documentary about Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) was hooked. She dropped out of school and the Netherlands’ premier national museum moved up the ranks until she got a job at to concentrate on its masterpieces, such as WNEW, where she embraced the burgeon- Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. But while film- HISTORY & CURRENT EVENTS ing punk scene. Similarly, Boston’s Charles maker Oeke Hoogendijk affords tantalizing Laquidara studied art in college before glimpses of such pieces, they are often being switching to acting. When that didn’t pan moved, prepared for display, or undergoing Empire HHH out, he moved to radio, and found his call- restoration. The film instead focuses on the (2012) 2 discs. 303 min. DVD: $49.99. Athena ing, which led to a gig at WBCN, where he countless delays tied to the institution’s (avail. from most distributors). SDH captioned. graduated to morning show host. Toronto’s renovation, which began in 2003 with an ISBN: 978-1-62172-228-1. David Marsden knew from the start that he expected timeframe of a couple of years but This five-part 2012 British series, a co-pro- wanted to be a DJ, even if his parents didn’t dragged on for nearly a decade. Obstacles duction of the BBC and The Open University, consider it a respectable career path. Since include construction-related problems, serves up an extended essay on England’s he played rock ‘n’ roll, he created a persona, staff debates about interior arrangements, imperial history, something that host Jeremy David Mickie, to match the boisterousness and budgetary setbacks, but most of the Paxman suggests contemporary Brits tend to of the music. His first boss didn’t like it, roadblocks here are bureaucratic and politi- be embarrassed about. Offering an overview but listeners responded favorably, and he cal. Intervention by governmental cultural of the British Empire, which began in the became a local celebrity (although he hid his agencies occasionally causes setbacks, but the 16th century and was dissolved in the 20th, homosexuality in order to stay in the game). real major snafu involves angry protests by the recurrent theme here is whether British Seattle’s Pat O’Day bounced around a few Amsterdam’s bicycle enthusiasts over plans rule was beneficial or harmful to the areas stations before he took over the afternoon for a new entrance. The cyclists oppose a de- controlled. Each episode features an over- shift at KJR, where he popularized local acts sign that will interfere with their traditional arching subject—power politics, the exporta-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 70 MARCH/APRIL 2016 tion of English customs to faraway locales, grew desperate; a subsequent jousting ac- details the nuclear meltdown at Fukushima, the thirst for adventure, economic motives, cident caused him constant pain and pos- which was exacerbated by human error and philanthropic intentions—covering sibly brain damage, leading to a personality (plant workers here offer a harrowing ac- a wide variety of locales, including India, change and increasing brutality. Fanned count of how they faced this unprecedented China, the Middle East, Africa, the Carib- by court intrigue, Henry accused Anne of situation). Running parallel to this recap is bean, and Canada (the future U.S. is omitted) affairs and even incest with her brother. A the story of a second nuclear plant—located in somewhat scattershot fashion. Along the subsequent trial (which Henry did not at- several miles from the damaged Fukushima way, intriguing issues are raised (such as the tend) led to embarrassing disclosures about facility—that also experienced the rough imperial role of English sports—particularly Henry’s alleged lack of skill at lovemaking. weather conditions, but did not sustain mas- cricket) and excellent thumbnail sketches More importantly, it also resulted in Anne’s sive damage. Also in the spotlight is TEPCO, are presented of key figures, including T.E. execution, which did not end Henry’s the company that runs both plants, which Lawrence, Cecil Rhodes, General Charles troubles or violence. Successive marriages found itself tasked with the responsibility Gordon, and famed missionary David Liv- finally produced a male heir, but the boy of cleaning up the radioactive mess while ingstone. A wealth of artwork and archival was short-lived and—ironically—it was trying to convince Japan and the wider material is supplemented with visits to a woman, Elizabeth I, who would reign, world of the continuing value of nuclear formerly imperial regions, where Paxman in- becoming one of England’s greatest mon- power. While the film could have devoted terviews locals (including a Kenyan woman archs. Full of low intrigue, high drama, more time to an in-depth consideration of who was a freedom fighter, a couple of elderly and historical insights, this documentary the potential long-term health risks cre- English ladies who saw Gandhi, and even the covering events fictionalized in the Golden ated by the nuclear plant’s meltdown—not great-grandson of the Mahdi, who besieged Globe winning PBS miniseries Wolf Hall only to Japan, but also to the Pacific Rim Gordon at Khartoum). The overall result is (based on Booker prize winning novels by nations bathed in radioactive fallout via somewhat disjointed and clearly apologetic, Hilary Mantel) is highly recommended. Aud: the atmosphere and ocean waters—it does with an admission that imperial rule was H, C, P. (S. Rees) offer an intelligent examination of how the basically indefensible and often brutal (while crisis transpired, as well as an inspiring look arguably also accomplishing some good), but Nuclear Meltdown Disaster HHH1/2 at the heroic reactions to this unimaginable it’s also quite informative, featuring many (2015) 60 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS scenario. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, fascinating anecdotes. Extras include a view- Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62789-462-3. P. (P. Hall) er’s guide with a timeline, map, and articles. On March 11, 2011, an earthquake in Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) Japan set off a tsunami that damaged the Fu- Uyghurs: Prisoners of the Absurd HHH kushima I Nuclear Power Plant, resulting in (2014) 99 min. DVD: $225. DRA. National Film Henry and Anne: The Lovers Who the greatest nuclear disaster since the 1986 Board of Canada. PPR. Changed History HHH1/2 catastrophe at Chernobyl. Filmmaker Miles The treatment of prisoners at Guanta- (2014) 120 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). O’Brien’s PBS-aired NOVA documentary namo Bay, where the U.S. has held so-called PBS Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62789- 479-1. As a young man, King Henry VIII was The Bomb HHH virile and handsome, living in an age where (2015) 120 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH masculinity was used as a justification for captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62789-452-4. power. A major blot on the king’s happi- In the late 1930s, development of an atomic bomb suddenly ness was his inability to produce a male became an urgent national priority in the U.S. after concerned heir, the repercussions of which not only American scientists noted that the Nazis were trying to build one. shook England but also had international A letter from Nazi refugee Albert Einstein to President Roosevelt consequences. Filmmaker Chris Mitchell’s quickly led to the formation of the secret atomic Manhattan PBS-aired documentary, hosted by Dr. Su- Project. Filmmakers Rushmore Denooyer and Kirk Wolfinger’s zannah Lipscomb, examines the eventful, PBS-aired documentary provides an entertaining and informa- passionate, and ultimately tragic marriage tive history of the bomb, with an emphasis on the early days of Henry and Anne Boleyn. In those days, in Los Alamos, NM, where scientists worked under the direction of autocratic leader when love was a political concern, Henry’s General Leslie Groves, enduring primitive living conditions in utmost secrecy. In spite first wife Catherine’s inability to birth a of security efforts, German scientist and Communist spy Klaus Fuchs was forwarding son became known as the “king’s great classified information on the bomb to the Soviets, America’s then-partner and future matter,” driving Henry to seek a divorce rival. Although Harry Truman was kept in the dark about the project until after he on the grounds that Catherine, previously became president, he accepted the fateful decision to drop bombs on Hiroshima and married to Henry’s brother, was a party Nagasaki, horrific acts that helped end the war. America’s singular position proved to to sin in the eyes of God, and the couple be short-lived, however, after the Soviets tested a nuclear weapon, opening a Cold War were punished with no male children. arms race (which lasted for much of the second half of the 20th century). A storm of Henry, who had many mistresses, cast his recriminations would follow, much of it leveled at tormented chief scientist J. Robert eyes on Anne Boleyn, an attractive, well- Oppenheimer, who was suspected of having Communist sympathies. The Bomb connected, flirtatious woman who spent looks at the Bikini Atoll tests, as well as near misses in potential nuclear showdowns much of her youth in France. In his effort in Korea and Cuba, which finally led to talks, treaties, and test bans. Along the way, to divorce, Henry eventually bypassed the the film effectively conveys the sheer insanity of the “new reality” of the nuclear age, disapproving Pope, creating and declaring including the infamous “duck and cover” drills, fallout shelters, and idea that having himself head of the Church of England. a clean yard and well-maintained house increased the odds for survival. The doctrine The marriage was passionate but turbulent, of “massive retaliation” (satirized in the black comedy classic Dr. Strangelove) finally and Lipscomb here examines their letters brought home the futility of nuclear weapons, although concerns remain about bombs to one another while visiting important falling into the wrong hands. A solid primer on the subject, this is recommended. sites in their relationship. When a male Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees) child still was not forthcoming, Henry

MARCH/APRIL 2016 71 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Vesuvius, which buried Pompeii in 79 A.D., Circle Unbroken: A Gullah Journey from Africa to America preserving a microcosm of Roman society at the height of its power. But in addition to HHH tourism, energy, and soothing hot springs (2015) 55 min. DVD: $19.95 ($24.95 w/PPR). Marshall Publishing. ISBN: 978-1-936134-60-1. and mud baths, volcanoes also create fertile soil, which leads many to risk the dangers In filmmaker Clark Santee’s musical documentary, co-writer and stay nearby to cultivate crops. One of the and narrator Anita Singleton-Prather tells the story of the Gullah most worrisome contemporary volcanoes is people through song, dance, and re-enactments (for several num- La Palma in the Atlantic’s Canary Islands: if bers, she provides lead vocals in a husky alto). In America, the this super volcano explodes, it could create Gullah primarily live in South Carolina, tracing their ancestry to tsunamis that might wipe out distant cities the West African nations of Sierra Leone, Gambia, Senegal, and like Manhattan (this could occur hundreds Angola. In one 18th-century re-enactment, slave traders raid an of years from now—or next Thursday). Likely African village; in another, Southern plantation owners bid for slaves at an auction. to appeal to armchair travelers, this is recom- Period drawings, paintings, and prints depict the harrowing journey that slaves took mended. Aud: P. (S. Rees) from Africa to the New World, during which many died due to overcrowding, malnutri- tion, and corporal punishment. On the plantations, slaves picked cotton, indigo, and rice—crops similar to those they cultivated in Africa. Singleton-Prather also describes BIOGRAPHY cultural practices, such as weddings (or “jumping the broom”) and Poro, the latter an initiation ritual signifying a boy’s transition to manhood. One song, “Peas and Rice,” celebrates two staples of the Gullah diet, while the Yoruba traditional “Funga Alafia” offers glad tidings and hopes for peace. For these sequences, the performers eschew Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth HHH1/2 the stage for parks, cemeteries, and other locations. Singleton-Prather also provides (2013) 84 min. DVD: $375. Kali Films (avail. from www.alicewalkerfilm.com). PPR. an overview of the abolitionist movement, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, and the Emancipation Proclamation. Towards the end, she mentions the 2015 murders Deeply informative and spiritually fulfill- of nine parishioners at the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, a sad reminder that ing, filmmaker Pratibha Parmar’s excellent racism is far from over. Students of African-American history will find much of interest documentary serves up a profile of Pulitzer here. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Fennessy) Prize-winning author Alice Walker, whose extraordinary journey began in the Jim Crow years of the Deep South, where she was raised in a matchbox house (with paper bags “enemy combatants” without trial since plastered to the walls in lieu of wallpaper) by 2001, is outrageous in many respects, but TRAVEL & GEOGRAPHY a mother who stood up to white owners of the Kafkaesque experience of 22 Uyghurs cotton fields in her determination to educate who were turned in as terrorists in response her children. Alice started writing poems as to bounties announced by Secretary of Volcanoes & Extreme Landscapes a means of emotional escape, and ultimately Defense Donald Rumsfeld is especially HHH received a scholarship in the early 1960s to galling. Filmmaker Patricio Henríquez’s (2015) 90 min. DVD: $24.95. Globe Trekker Spelman College in Atlanta. There she fret- documentary effectively recounts the story (avail. from most distributors). PPR. ISBN: 1- ted over whether to jeopardize her standing 937103-33-0. of these Turkic-speaking Muslims, who were with the school in order to join Civil Rights persecuted for their involvement in the sep- Throughout human history, volcanoes marches, but found in historian Howard aratist movement in the Chinese region of have been a source of fear and fascination. Zinn—who would be fired from the Spelman Xinjiang, and fled to Afghanistan, only to Hosted by Megan McCormick, this Globe faculty for his activism—an early mentor. be captured post-9/11 and sold to America. Trekker special takes viewers on a tour of While still writing, Walker became more ac- The men endured up to seven years of cap- the world’s mightiest, most active volcanoes. tive in the Black Power movement. She mar- tivity in Cuba (and Chinese interrogators One of the best known is Hawaii’s Kílauea, ried white Jewish attorney Melvyn Leventhal were given access to them), before being once considered the home of Pele, a native (an expansive personality who speaks warmly eventually released to other countries, but god. Over thousands of years, volcanic erup- of his ex-wife in filmed interviews) and had scars remain—not only on the men but tions have increased the size of the islands as a daughter, feminist writer Rebecca Walker. also on the reputation of the United States. molten rock has cooled (Kílauea lies in the Walker’s years at Ms. magazine in New York Footage of the interior of the Guantanamo heart of the fabled Pacific “Ring of Fire”). In were fruitful and she found a black sisterhood facility is limited but telling, and Henríquez 1883, a massive eruption of Java’s Krakatoa of fellow writers. Racial dividing lines at the includes extended excerpts from interviews volcano was deemed the loudest sound ever time were so strong, however, that her mar- with three of the prisoners, who describe heard on Earth, resulting in a blast that riage to Leventhal did not last. Walker talks their harrowing ordeal. Also interviewed sank ships, while also creating huge, deadly about story and poetry collections she wrote are Rushan Abbas, who was enlisted by tidal waves that killed thousands (for years before completing the 1982 international authorities as their translator and quickly afterward, the volcanic ash that spewed bestseller The Color Purple, partially based on became their protector, and Sabin Willett, a into the atmosphere made for spectacular her grandparents’ experiences. Quincy Jones Boston bankruptcy lawyer who argued their sunsets). Today, Java is one of the most active and Steven Spielberg are on hand to discuss case in federal court. Henríquez also looks volcanic zones in the world. Some volcanoes, the film version, with some additional time at the Uyghurs’ story within the context of like Stromboli off the coast of Italy, are in devoted to a backlash in the 1980s against the President Obama’s failed attempt to close near constant eruption while others, such work for associating spousal violence, rape, the detention camp, using news clips and as Japan’s Mt. Fuji, has been dormant for lesbianism, and incest with African-Ameri- interviews with Daniel Fried, point man on centuries. In 1980, Washington state’s Mount can characters. The documentary also covers the doomed effort. Presenting a surreal true St. Helens came to life with a shattering blast Walker’s activism in America, Africa, Gaza, story that reflects poorly on both American that leveled old growth forests and killed over and elsewhere; her more recent writing; and law and politics, this is recommended. Aud: 50 people. Perhaps the most famous volcanic relationships and love affairs. Walker appears C, P. (F. Swietek) disaster remains the eruption of Italy’s Mount to be a liberated spirit, asking what it truly

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 72 MARCH/APRIL 2016 means to be human and not letting herself be in which archrivals battle with the encour- to his journalism roots, even as his novels trapped by conventional expectations. Extras agement of “nubile” female cheerleaders. (including One Hundred Years of Solitude and include an interview with the director, film Humans crave acceptance and security, Love in the Time of Cholera) earned classic premiere Q&A, audio of Walker reading her but the flipside is brutal exclusion, best il- status. Late in life Márquez would use his poem “Remember,” and a study guide. Highly lustrated by the policies of Nazi Germany. talent to condemn the rise of narcotics and recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) In the twilight of his life, Wilson meditates gangsterism in Colombia. Despite the Clinton on our place in the natural world, the need interview, Gabo does not dwell on the State E.O. Wilson: Of Ants and Men HHH1/2 to reclaim the “better angels” of our nature, Department’s infamous banning of Márquez (2015) 120 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). and the importance of saving other species from entering the U.S. because of his political PBS Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62789- in order to save ourselves. Offering a fine views. His high-profile friendship with dicta- 4 4 8 -7. overview of Wilson’s life, work, and the aca- tor Fidel Castro is described here as a complex A champion of conservation and biodi- demic controversies concerning his research love-hate alliance that Márquez often used to versity, and winner of two Pulitzer prizes, on sociobiology, this inspiring and informa- help free prisoners from Cuban jails. The great octogenarian naturalist Edward Osborne tive profile is highly recommended. Aud: H, author’s script contributions and adaptations Wilson has changed how we look at the C, P. (S. Rees) for movies and TV are minimized here, world. In this PBS-aired documentary from although they might have lent more visual filmmaker Shelley Schulze, Wilson calls him- Gabo: The Creation of Gabriel Garcia interest to a presentation that heavily relies self a “happy man in a terrible century”—a Márquez HHH on talking heads and archival footage. Still, time of environmental degradation that finds (2015) 90 min. DVD: $348. Icarus Films. PPR. given Márquez’s superstar status in world humanity seemingly rushing headlong into Closed captioned. literature, this made-for-libraries biographi- self-destruction. Raised in rural Alabama, A serviceable documentary profile of cal portrait of the author is recommended. Wilson was always captivated by nature, but revered writer Gabriel Garcia Márquez, who Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) an early injury (limiting his vision to one won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1982, eye) made him concentrate on examining the filmmaker Justin Webster’sGabo is notable Jaco HHH1/2 world’s “little things”: insects, particularly for interviewing cohorts of Márquez in the (2015) 2 discs. 217 min. DVD: $19.99, Blu-ray: ants. Wilson was struck by the similarity South American literary firmament—Plinio $24.99. MVD Entertainment Group (avail. from of ants and humans, who not only share a Apuleyo Mendoza, Juan Gabriel Vásquez, most distributors). motivation to build complex societies while Xavi Ayén—rather than guest Anglo acade- Directors Paul Marchand and Stephan working toward common goals, but also both micians and various celebs. One startling Kijak join forces for this stirring portrait of engage in tribalism. Wilson describes tribal- exception: President Bill Clinton, an ardent renowned bassist Jaco Pastorius (1951-1987), ism as a “sort of communion,” transcending admirer of Márquez’s writings, who says who grew up in Florida surrounded by music individual selves to create superorganisms, that the author’s works affected Clinton’s since his father, Jack, was a nightclub singer. in which ants sacrifice themselves for the own views on South America. Growing up Jaco played the drums before turning to the common good (illustrated by battles to the in a small town in Colombia, Márquez was bass, which proved a perfect fit. Soul singer death between leaf cutter and termite ants, raised mostly by grandparents, who imbued Wayne Cochran praises Jaco’s ability to play where “soldiers” die defending the nests). him with a different vision of life that would anything thrown at him. Jaco’s brother, For humans, tribalism has both positive and nurture his “magical realist” prose style. The Gregory, recalls that the birth of Jaco’s negative effects. Wilson describes our love young “Gabo” initially worked as a newspa- daughter, Mary, inspired him to aim higher of competitive sports, particularly football, per reporter, and he would repeatedly return than session work. Sting believes that Jaco transformed bass playing into something symphonic, while Herbie Hancock marvels BaddDDD Sonia Sanchez HHH at Jaco’s ability to invest his playing with (2015) 91 min. DVD: $24.95: individuals; $49.95: public libraries & high personality. Mary says that her father heard schools; $295: colleges & universities. California Newsreel. PPR. Closed music in everything, concluding, “It’s a gift captioned. and it’s a burden.” A chance meeting with Co-directed by Barbara Attie, Janet Goldwater, and Sabrina Bobby Colomby of Blood, Sweat, & Tears Schmidt Gordon, this feature-length documentary celebrates the led to a deal with Epic and Jaco’s first solo life of octogenarian African-American poet and activist Sonia album in 1976. Jaco could have continued Sanchez, presenting autobiographical reflections by Sanchez, down the solo path, but instead he joined reading of her work by herself and others (including actress Weather Report, which helped to unite Ruby Dee), and testimony about her influence from colleagues rock and jazz fans, inspiring bassists such and scholars. Alabama-born Sanchez speaks movingly of her as Flea and Metallica’s Robert Trujillo (the youth: she lost her mother as an infant and had a troubled childhood involving a latter produced this documentary). Cocky frequently-absent father and neglectful relatives. She also describes the incident that and competitive, Jaco enjoyed a fractious energized her at the age of 19, when she was summarily turned down for a writing job relationship with Weather Report founder in New York because of her color. That discriminatory experience inspired Sanchez to Joe Zawinul, but Joni Mitchell and other participate in the creation of the Black Arts Movement of the 1960s, and to become collaborators noticed that his behavior was a pioneer in the establishment of Black Studies curricula in American colleges (her becoming downright erratic in the late 1970s early efforts in San Francisco met resistance, but were ultimately recognized when as mental illness and substance abuse issues Sanchez was appointed to a professorship at Temple University in 1977). Sanchez’s brief surfaced. There were other problems, as well, involvement with the Nation of Islam and her verbal confrontation with the Black which makes Jaco increasingly hard to watch, Panthers, as well as her role in the anti-war movement of the ‘70s, are also touched but Marchand and Kijak avoid melodrama for upon. Often accompanied by jazz musicians here, Sanchez’s recitations of free-verse a more matter-of-fact approach. Juan Alderete poetry are now seen as a precursor of hip-hop and rap. Offering an illuminating and of the Mars Volta speaks for many bassists inspiring profile of an influential figure who helped to bring about significant social when he states: “He was our Hendrix.” Extras change, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) include bonus interviews. Highly recom- mended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)

MARCH/APRIL 2016 73 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Tigre, and her current band, the Julie ALA-VRT Notable Videos 2016 Ruin. (VL-5/14) The Salt of the Earth (Sony, 110 min., The American Library Association DVD: $24.95). Exploring how the African Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $26.99). Filmmaker (ALA) Video Round Table Notable Videos nation of Uganda became a hotbed for ha- Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salga- for Adults Committee has compiled its tred aimed at gays and lesbians in the last do’s documentary explores the work of the 2016 list of Notable Videos for Adults, a decade, Oscar-winning director Roger Ross latter’s father, humanistic photographer list of 15 outstanding films released on Williams’s powerful documentary finds Sebastião Salgado. (VL-7/15) video within the past two years. Unless that part of the blame lies with American otherwise noted, titles are available from evangelical churches. (VL-7/14) The Square (City Drive Films, 109 min., most distributors or the companies are DVD or Blu-ray: $17.98). Director Jehane listed in the “Distributor Addresses” on The Great Invisible (Anchor Bay, 92 min., Noujaim’s 2013 Oscar nominee for Best page 82. DVD: $19.98 [$95: high schools & public Documentary captures real-time events in libraries; $295 w/PPR: colleges & universi- Cairo’s Tahrir Square, a symbolic strong- Alive Inside (City Drive Films, 78 ties from Ro*co Films Educational, www. hold for dissenters protesting against the min., DVD or Blu-ray: $19.95). Filmmaker rocoeducational.com]). Director Margaret repressive Mubarak government in 2011. Michael Rossato-Bennett’s documentary Brown travels across Alabama, Louisiana, (VL-1/16) celebrating the salutary impact of music and Texas, exploring the legacy of the April on dementia patients centers on social 2010 Deepwater Horizon explosion. (See Watchers of the Sky (Music Box Films, worker Dan Cohen, who provides iPods upcoming review in VL-5/16). 121 min., DVD: $29.95). Edet Belzberg’s to nursing home residents suffering from documentary tells the story of Raphael Alzheimer’s and other forms of mental India’s Daughter (Women Make Movies, Lemkin, a refugee from Nazi-occupied debilitation. (VL-1/15) 62 min., in Hindi w/English subtitles, DVD: Poland who coined the term “genocide” $89: high schools & public libraries; $395: and lost nearly 50 family members to the Call Me Lucky (MPI, 105 min., DVD: colleges & universities). Filmmaker Leslee Holocaust. (VL-5/15) $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98). Standup comic Udwin’s documentary tells the tragic story turned filmmaker Bobcat Goldthwait pays of the brutal 2012 gang rape on a Delhi bus Web (Sundial Pictures [http://sundial- tribute to Barry Crimmins, acerbic critic of of a 23-year-old medical student, who later pictures.com], 84 min., DVD: $24.95 [$200 the conservative Reagan-Bush years, men- died from her injuries. (See upcoming review w/PPR]). Filmmaker Michael Kleiman’s tor to comics, and champion of victims of in VL-5/16). documentary chronicles a project to Internet child abuse. (VL-1/16) introduce laptop computers and Internet The Kill Team (Bullfrog Films, 79 min., connectivity to children in remote Peru- E-Team (Ro*co Films Educational [www. DVD: $350). Director Dan Krauss’s cinematic vian locales. (VL-3/15) rocoeducational.com], 89 min., DVD: $95: inquest examines crimes committed on the high schools & public libraries; $295 American side of the war in Afghanistan, The Whole Gritty City (Alexander w/PPR: colleges & universities). Filmmak- here told mostly from the point of view of Street Press [www.alexanderstreet.com], 89 ers Katy Chevigny and Ross Kauffman’s infantryman Adam Winfield while prepar- min., DVD: $295). Three Louisiana march- documentary spotlights members of an ing for his trial. (VL-7/15) ing bands prepare for Mardi Gras in this Emergencies Team international human documentary from filmmakers Richard rights group who investigate trouble spots The Missing Picture (Strand, 92 min., Barber and Andre Lambertson. (VL-5/15) around the globe. (See upcoming review DVD: $27.99). Cambodian director Ri- in VL-5/16). thy Panh’s iconoclastic Oscar-nominated The Notable Videos for Adults Committee documentary tells the story of his family’s members are: Chair, Wendy Highby, University Freedom Summer (PBS, 120 min. DVD: harrowing experiences during the Khmer Libraries, University of Northern Colorado; $24.99 [$54.99 w/PPR from www.teacher. Rouge terror of the 1970s, using meticulously Cecilia Cygnar, Niles Public Library District, shop.pbs.org]). Acclaimed documentary carved wooden and clay figures arranged in IL; Linda Frederiksen, Washington State filmmaker Stanley Nelson brilliantly cap- various situations. (VL-5/14) University, Vancouver Library; Maura Lynch, tures the passion, anguish, and fury of Guilderland Public Library, Albany, NY; Sandra Macke, Catalog Librarian, Portland, OR; Jeffrey Mississippi’s 1964 summer months during The Punk Singer (MPI, 81 min., DVD: Pearson, Askwith Media Library, University of the volatile Civil Rights era in this PBS- $24.98). Filmmaker Sini Anderson’s docu- Michigan Ann Arbor; Junior Tidal, Ursula C. aired film. VL( -11/14) mentary focuses on the life story of musician Schwerin Library, New York City College of and Lyme disease sufferer Kathleen Hanna, Technology, CUNY; and Lorraine Wochna, God Loves Uganda (First Run, 83 min. covering Hanna’s years in Bikini Kill, Le Alden Library, Ohio University.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 74 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck HHH a film career and a series of affairs—after (2015) 132 min. DVD or Blu-ray: $24.98. meeting Ava Gardner, his first marriage Series Update Universal Music Enterprises (avail. from most was over (Gina Gershon provides Gardner’s distributors). perspective from her writings). Gibney then The following titles are new additions moves to Sinatra’s Oscar-wining turn in From While other filmmakers have made docu- to series that were previously recom- Here to Eternity, his campaigning on behalf mentaries about Nirvana singer-songwriter mended. Titles are available from most of John F. Kennedy, and his marriage to Mia Kurt Cobain (1967-1994), Brett Morgen’s distributors unless otherwise noted. Montage of Heck is likely to prove definitive, Farrow, which ended just as his work was starting to seem passé. Along the way, the especially since Morgen had unfettered ac- Lidia Celebrates film examines his Mafia ties and his exploits cess to family members and archival mate- America: Home for with the Rat Pack in Las Vegas. Although rial. Serving up a chronological biography, the Holidays (60 min., he intended to retire in 1971, Sinatra would the film interweaves home movies with DVD: $24.99) is the revive his music career a few years later, and insightful interviews. Some speakers, like most recent special Gibney closes with a 1978 rendition of “New Cobain’s mother, Wendy O’Connor, have from WGBH and PBS York, New York.” It’s a positive note on which never talked about him on camera before, Distribution’s public to end an evenhanded portrait of a life with but agreed to participate after Kurt’s daugh- television-aired series as many lows as highs. Extras include bonus ter, Frances Bean Cobain, signed on as pro- featuring culinary ex- audio interviews. Highly recommended. Aud: ducer. So it’s somewhat surprising that the pert Lidia Bastianich, who here looks C, P. (K. Fennessy) documentary paints a fairly critical portrait. at a variety of holiday traditions. See O’Connor praises her son’s musical talent as review of Lidia Celebrates America: Life’s a child, but says that after her divorce from Turned Towards the Sun HHH Milestones in VL-5/14. Don Cobain, Kurt never recovered from his (2014) 91 min. DVD: $19.95. MVD Entertainment Group (avail. from most distributors). feelings of betrayal (this thematic thread Shout! Factory has released the new- runs throughout, making Kurt seem more Michael “Micky” Burn (1912-2010) was est addition to their animated animal emotionally stunted than sensitive and an Englishman whose life often played like series, Pound Puppies: A Rare Pair (110 sympathetic). Morgen draws on journal en- a wild thriller. His father was employed by min., DVD: $12.99), which follows the tries, drawings, and audiotapes to track the the House of Windsor and as a young man pups of Shelter 17 and the Kennel Kit- stages of Cobain’s development, skillfully Burn was briefly enchanted by the early eco- tens as they work together to help pets editing the material together (although the nomic promise of Nazism in rebuilding the find the best home. See review ofPound animated segments, which depict Kurt in German economy (he even had an audience Puppies—Mission: Adoption in VL-7/13. private moments, seem extraneous). Since with Hitler). But Burn quickly became disil- the director opted to focus on Cobain’s point lusioned with the Third Reich and served in Paramount Home Entertainment’s of view, he keeps interviews to a minimum, the Royal Army in World War II, participating latest release in their Nickelodeon-aired but does include key figures such as Nirvana in the commando raid on St. Nazaire. Cap- computer-animated series about mon- bass player Krist Novoselic, and Cobain’s tured and held in a POW camp, Burn later ster trucks is Blaze and the Monster widow, Courtney Love. Morgen appears to won the Military Cross for his valor. Burn Machines: Rev Up and Roar (87 min., have little interest in rehashing the details of would go on to embrace Marxism and enjoy DVD: $14.99), which includes four epi- Cobain’s suicide—one of the music world’s a successful writing career. Greg Olliver’s sodes featuring dinosaur and monster more tragic losses—but otherwise does a fine documentary plays up Burn’s links to many truck pals. See review of Blaze of Glory: job of telling Cobain’s story. Extras include prominent individuals—some on an intimate A Mini-Movie in VL-5/15. bonus interviews and a photo gallery. Recom- basis (a bisexual, Burn was once the lover mended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) of future Soviet spy Guy Burgess) and some The Family Films Collection (120 that are rather tenuous (Burn’s claim to have min., DVD: $14.99), the latest Vision rescued Audrey Hepburn during wartime was Video release of Gospel Films Archive’s Sinatra: All or Nothing at All HHH1/2 based on his sending food and cigarettes to (2015) 2 discs. 259 min. DVD or Blu-ray: $29.98. collection of vintage short films featur- Eagle Rock Entertainment (avail. from most the future star’s mother, who sold them ing Christian themes, includes This distributors). on the black market in the Nazi-occupied My Son (1954), Missionary to Walker’s Netherlands). Burn found new audiences as Oscar-winning director Alex Gibney’s Garage (1961), Rim of the Wheel (1951), a journalist while covering the frontlines HBO-aired profile of singing legend Frank and Honor Thy Family (1951). See review of the 1956 Hungarian uprising, and in his Sinatra uses Ol’ Blue Eyes’ 1971 retirement of The Christopher Films Collection in final years was a beloved raconteur. Offering concert as a structuring device, with the 11 VL-9/15. a glowing tribute to a man whose life was songs he performed serving as a kind of auto- fascinating, fast-paced, and full of adventure, biography. Gibney combines new and archi- NCircle Entertain- this biographical profile is recommended. val interviews with footage from Sinatra’s life, ment’s Guess How Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) while his kids—Nancy, Frank, and Tina—pro- Much I Love You: vide much of the voiceover, along with col- The Song of Spring laborators, such as composer Nelson Riddle. (80 min., DVD: $9.99) Gibney also incorporates several interviews O is the latest animated with Sinatra himself, including a revealing nline compilation featuring conversation with Walter Cronkite from the Visit Video Librarian Online (www. the Nutbrown hare 1960s. Sinatra grew up in Hoboken, NJ, dur- videolibrarian.com) for more reviews family and their meadow and forest ing the Depression. When he proved more during March and April, including: pals, based on the children’s books by successful at singing than studying, Sinatra Chasing Pluto, Defining Sexual Assault, author Sam McBratney and illustrator dropped out of school, and his fame grew Demon on Wheels, The Image Revolution, Anita Jeram. See review of Guess How as he worked with Harry James and Tommy Sweet Georgia Brown, The True Cost, and Much I Love You: Hidden Treasure in Dorsey. Once Hollywood beckoned, Sinatra much more! VL-1/14. moved to California, where he embarked on

MARCH/APRIL 2016 75 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Japanese Anime

Buddy Complex: The Dragonar Academy: be baffled. Presented in a dual-language edi- Complete Series HHH Complete Series HH tion, rated TV-PG, extras (on the Blu-ray/DVD (2014) 5 discs. 375 min. Blu- (2014) 4 discs. 300 min. Blu- Combo version) include behind-the-scenes ray/DVD Combo: $54.98. ray/DVD Combo: $64.98. featurettes. Recommended. (C. Cassady) Funimation (avail. from most Funimation (avail. from most distributors). distributors). Momokyun Sword: A time-travel gimmick This humdrum manga- Complete Collection distinguishes this intricately derived T&A fantasy will appeal to those H1/2 detailed combat/sci-fi saga. Aoba Watase is a who felt that Anne McCaffrey’s Pern novels (2014) 300 min. DVD: 2 discs, typical high-schooler circa 2014, who is faced unfairly omitted the key elements of huge $49.98; Blu-ray: $59.98. Sentai with a huge “mecha” robot that appears out of cleavage, butts bulging out of panties, and Filmworks (avail. from most nowhere, trying to kill him. Aoba is saved by human-dragon sexual entendres. In a realm distributors). the surprise intervention of classmate Hina, where humans and intelligent dragons co- One of the best-known Japanese fairy-tales who is suddenly piloting a mecha herself. exist, the Dragonar Academy hosts would-be is that of “Peach Boy,” a heroic lad found by Thrust by Hina into a “singularity” time dragon masters learning to partner with their an old couple inside of a peach, who grows up warp, Aoba finds himself in the year 2088, scaly companions. Problem-student Ash to be a conqueror of demons. This cheesecake during a World War between the Confed- Blake—destined to be a great dragon-master variation envisions a Peach Girl, named Mo- eration (Japan and Asia-Pacific nations) and in spite of himself—is the reluctant recipient moko, who matures with enormous, pendu- Zogilia (obviously Russia), with the standard of an immature dragon who happens to take lous breasts. Because of Momoko’s ability to weapon being the “Valiancer”—which the human form of a nubile, flame-haired bond with her retinue of animal-spirit friends consists of giant powered armor (piloted by girl. Ash names her Eco, although she insists (a monkey, a pheasant, and dog) for superior teenagers, naturally). Although initially re- that she is the master in their relationship, fighting prowess, Momoko is recruited to garded with suspicion by the Confederation, which basically revolves around saving each assist the huge-chested “Celestial Maiden Aoba soon proves himself an ace Valiancer other from peril and being found in ribald Squad” in battle against power-hungry de- operator. But then he re-encounters Hina—a situations (since she’s a dragon, Eco often mons. Some demons turn out to be not as fierce Valiancer pilot for Zogilia, with no goes clothing-optional). There is a threat here bad as they seem, and there are some nice memory of their previous life together. Their from villains controlling undead/corrupted riffs here on Nippon folklore and established time-tangled relationship plays out during a dragons that flagrantly molest women using characters of legend (the Maidens become broad-canvas saga of battlefield camaraderie, tentacles—but fortunately a counterforce of feudal singing idols, unintentionally turning betrayal, intrigue, service-drama hijinks, busty princesses are always up for strategy- all of the ferocious samurai into simpering and doomsday weapons. Compiling all 13 planning sessions (sometimes nude in the sissy sycophants). But for the most part, this episodes from 2014 in a Japansese-language communal bath). Compiling all 12 episodes is clichéd formula fare mixing boobs, butts, Blu-ray/DVD Combo set, rated TV-14, extras from 2014 in a dual-language Blu-ray/DVD and battles. Compiling all 12 episodes from include two bonus OVAs, and promo videos. Combo set, rated TV-MA, extras include 2014 in separate DVD and Blu-ray editions, Recommended. (C. Cassady) audio commentaries and promo videos. Not rated TV-14, and presented in Japanese with a necessary purchase. (C. Cassady) English subtitles, this is not recommended. Daimidaler: Prince vs. (C. Cassady) Penguin Empire: The Dragonball Z: Complete Series H Resurrection ‘F’ HHH Riddle Story of Devil: The (2014) 4 discs. 300 min. Blu- (2015) 95 min. DVD: $29.98; Complete Series HH1/2 ray/DVD Combo: $64.98. Blu-ray/DVD Combo: 2 discs, (2014) 2 discs. 325 min. DVD: Funimation (avail. from most $34.98. Funimation (avail. $64.98. Funimation (avail. distributors). from most distributors). from most distributors). One of the worst anime productions to Fox joined with legend- Ever-optimistic Haru Ich- ever come down the proverbial pike, Daimi- ary Japanese studio Toei to release this 2015 inose just wants to graduate daler takes all of the stereotypical vices of latest theatrical spin-off in the long-running from her prestigious Class Black at the Myôjô anime—misogyny, incoherent storylines, Dragonball Z franchise of fight-saturated ad- Academy private boarding school, but her 12 pointless violence—and magnifies them a venture-fantasies starring Goku, a “Saiyan” classmates are actually assassins who were thousand-fold, with nary a jot of anything alien martial-artist who came to Earth as part sent to kill her—and whoever succeeds will resembling wit or style. The plot revolves of a fearsome conquering warrior race. But receive her fondest wish. Assassin Tokaku around a teenage pervert named Kouichi Goku is a good-natured lug whose only ambi- Azuma, for reasons mysterious even to her- who has the ability to produce the Hi- tion is to boost his fighting abilities higher self, casts herself as Ichinose’s protector from ERO particles needed to operate a giant and higher, so he has turned out to be the the other highly-motivated girls. Is this a case robot. But Kouichi can only create these planet’s defender, accessorized with a nag- of altruism, love, or something else? Adapted particles by molesting buxom girls, which ging wife, a son, and sequels-full of extended from the ongoing manga Akuma no Ridoru he does in disgustingly graphic detail. The family, allies, and other talking-animal and by Yun Kôga, this is a yuri (girl love) actioner reason Kouichi and his robot are needed shape-shifting-ninja types. Directed by Ta- with emotional overtones. Each assassin is because Earth is facing an invasion of dayoshi Yamamuro, the film’s plot concerns receives a background story explaining her alien penguins with huge front tails (that one of the franchise’s longstanding villains, personal path to Class Black and ambitions, look suspiciously phallic). Unfortunately, evil galactic conqueror Frieza, last seen to some of which are poignant while others are the makers of this enervated mess are be literally in little pieces. Thanks to the malevolent. But while the animation sparkles, unable to differentiate between comedy mystic power of the “Dragon Balls,” Frieza the series doesn’t really do justice to the stories and vulgarity. Compiling all 12 episodes is brought back to life with boosted powers of the assassins, and the hints of romance from 2014 in a dual-language Blu-ray/DVD and he is determined to come to Earth to remain frustratingly just that. Presenting all Combo set, rated TV-MA, extras include destroy Goku and his friends in a rematch. 13 episodes from 2014 in a dual-language audio commentaries and bonus OVAs. Not Fans won’t be disappointed, although new- edition, rated TV-14, extras include episode recommended. (P. Hall) bies to the Dragonball mythology will likely commentaries. Optional. (L. Martincik)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 76 MARCH/APRIL 2016 Music Dance

Adam’s Passion HHH Sartori, although beefy in appearance, ex- has never achieved the in- (2015) 94 min. DVD: $24.99, hibits a huge, ringing tenor as Radamès, the ternational renown of his Blu-ray: $39.99. Accentus general whose love for Aida leads to their joint earlier Romeo and Juliet, but Music (avail. from most doom. But both are very nearly overshadowed this scintillating 2013 stag- distributors). by Anita Rachvelishvili, who brings fire as ing from St. Petersburg’s The music of Estonian well as luscious tone to the role of Amneris, Mariinsky Theatre certainly composer Arvo Pärt has a the rival whose jealousy destroys the lovers. makes a strong impression. hushed, ethereal beauty, The supporting cast can’t match this power A revival of the 2002 production by Alexei but is also static and repetitive—an unlikely trio—in the role of high priest Ramfis, Matti Ratmansky, Cinderella is presented on an choice for conventional ballet treatment. But Salminen’s once rock-steady bass shows a oddly spare stage—with only a couple of in this 2015 world premiere performance at newfound gruffness—but overall this Aida staircases and a few sticks of furniture—but the Noblessner Foundry Tallinn, avant-garde brings welcome freshness to an operatic war- the costumes are vibrantly colorful and the American stage director (and sometime horse that too often suffers from pedestrian choreography displays an exuberant mix- choreographer) Robert Wilson finds an ap- run-throughs. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD ture of soulful elegance and almost frantic propriate visual complement to the music’s 5.1 on the Blu-ray release) and PCM stereo, gestures. The company orchestra plays the contemplative quality, employing statuesque this is highly recommended. (F. Swietek) alternately spiky and lush score brilliantly poses and movements that are sometimes for musical director Valery Gergiev, while the barely perceptible. Their collaborative work Black Stone Cherry— dancing is splendid. Diana Vishneva makes brings together four separate pieces by Pärt. A Thank You: Livin’ Live, for a lovely heroine, her hesitant gestures gentle orchestral Sequentia, newly composed, perfectly capturing the character’s shyness, Birmingham, UK HH1/2 leads into Adam’s Lament (2009), a choral set- and she’s admirably partnered with Vladimir ting of a poem by a monk of Mount Athos in (2014) 131 min. DVD: $20.98 (audio CD included), Blu-ray: Shklyarov, who brings both hauteur and boy- which the first man foresees all the pain his $25.98 (audio CD included). ishness to the prince, reaching a high level sin will cause humanity. Following Tabula Eagle Rock Entertainment (avail. from most of virtuosity in his long third-act search for rasa (1977), a double concerto for two violins distributors). the girl whose foot will fit the glass slipper. and piano, the chorus returns for Miserere For their first Birmingham concert, Ken- The rest of the cast shine as well, with Ekat- (1989/92), a plea for divine mercy. Wilson tucky alternative-metal outfit Black Stone erina Kondaurova—wearing a bright orange accompanies the music with a long sequence Cherry played at Barfly—a venue that holds wig—threatening to steal the show as the of the naked Adam, slowly turning and then 200 people. For this 2014 engagement, on wicked stepmother. While Romeo and Juliet walking down a ramp extended into the au- tour for their album Magic Mountain, the is undoubtedly the composer’s greatest bal- dience, followed by another in which adults band appear at the LG Arena (since renamed let, Ratmansky’s inventive take on Cinderella and children, watched by a heavily costumed Genting Arena), which holds over 15,000. justifies its continuing place in the Russian woman, carry ladders in patterns while a boy After releasing four full-length albums, it’s repertory. Presented in PCM stereo, this is balances what appears to be a brick on his not surprising they would make a few British recommended. (F. Swietek) head. The performers’ movements on the fans. But their sound couldn’t be more quint- nearly bare stage are agonizingly slow, set essentially American. Even when covering The Color of Noise off by Wilson’s imaginative lighting design. U.K. trio Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love,” HHH Conductor Tõnu Kaljuste elicits refined work they still sound as if they grew up on South- from the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra and (2015) 120 min. Blu-ray/ ern rock acts—such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and DVD Combo: $19.95. MVD the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir. Molly Hatchet—an effect reinforced by their Entertainment Group (avail. Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and plaid shirts, jeans, and tattoos. But apparently from most distributors). PCM stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and that’s a big part of their appeal, since 2011’s Eric Robel’s digressive PCM stereo on Blu-ray, this is recommended. Between the Devil & the Deep Blue Sea was a documentary revolves around Tom Hazelmy- (F. Swietek) top five hit in Britain, but barely cracked the er, musician and founder of Amphetamine Top 40 in the U.S. This 21-song set consists Reptile Records. As a framing device, Robel Aida HHH1/2 of shouted rockers that inspire singing and draws on a 25th anniversary concert that (2015) 151 min. In Italian w/ fist-pumping from the crowd, particularly on took place in Minneapolis in 2010. Hazelmyer English subtitles, DVD: $24.99, “Such a Shame,” which features more vocals Blu-ray: $39.99. C Major/Unitel makes for a unique subject, since he’s a private Classica (dist. by Naxos of from the audience than lead singer-guitarist man with a public profile—even though he America). Chris Robertson, who stays rooted to the provided an interview, most of the commen- You would expect Milan’s spot, while guitarist Ben Wells and bassist Jon tary here comes from the bands he worked La Scala to serve up Verdi’s Lawhon never stop moving back and forth with, including Cows and the Melvins. The ever-popular opera with exuberance and across the stage, and drummer John Fred Color of Noise moves along chronologically, confidence, and that is certainly the case in Young takes a loose-limbed, John Bonham starting with Halo of Flies, the noise-rock Peter Stein’s 2015 staging, which brilliantly approach to his kit. Extras include a bonus trio in which Hazelmyer began to make his blends tradition with innovation, display- audio CD, and an interview with Robertson reputation. While the band was getting off ing sumptuous costumes (some in period and Wells from 2015’s Download Festival the ground, he joined the Marines, partly style while others sport modernist touches) along with two songs from their headlining because he didn’t have the grades for col- set against backgrounds that emphasize performance. Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby lege, but Robel also hints at a conservatism geometric shapes rather than quasi-realistic Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD that is somewhat at odds with the indie-rock structures. While the look is striking, the real 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, this is a scene: Hazelmyer is a gun enthusiast with glory of this Aida lies on the musical side. strong optional purchase. (K. Fennessy) an antipathy for hippies (Robel could have Conductor Zubin Mehta delivers powerful explored this subject more, particularly in orchestral accompaniment to an exceptional Cinderella HHH light of Hazelmyer’s use of stylized swastikas). cast. Kristin Lewis acts touchingly and sings (2013) 110 min. Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $42.99. While Hazelmyer was on leave, the band ravishingly in the title role of the Ethiopian Mariinsky (dist. by Naxos of America). played and recorded, but couldn’t interest princess in Egyptian captivity, while Fabio Serge Prokofiev’s 1944 fairy-tale ballet a label, so Hazelmyer started his own. From

MARCH/APRIL 2016 77 VIDEO LIBRARIAN 1986 to 1998, he signed over 70 acts, some of Johann Strauss II’s most observers claimed to have seen over the years, whom—like Helmet—would eventually move famous operetta (a compli- suggesting that they might be vaudevillians on to major labels. He also worked with art- cated farce of infidelity and of yore looking for somewhere to hang out ists, like Coop and Frank Kozik, who designed mistaken identities) is that since the building did attract artistic types album covers and posters. Their influence on it celebrated the career of in the early-20th century. The musical por- Hazelmyer was so profound that he segued Dame Joan Sutherland, who tion of the program includes a 10-song set from music to art. His new career began in was retiring from the stage. with the house band, featuring guitarist earnest after a bout with spinal meningitis Although Sutherland was Douglas Hunt, saxophone player Phil Dunn, in 2009. Afterward, he found printmaking not part of the regular cast, she and her col- and drummer Kyle Ivy, who concentrate therapeutic, and has since opened an art leagues Marilyn Horne and Luciano Pavarotti on rock and R&B covers such as the Doors’ gallery. Both visually and aurally stimulating, appeared in the traditional “gala scene” at “Light My Fire” and Lionel Ritchie’s “All The Color of Noise offers an engaging mix of Prince Orlofsky’s ball in Act 2, singing pieces Night Long.” Everyone except Hunt sings, “color” and “noise” capturing Hazelmyer’s by Cilea, Rossini, Saint-Saëns, and Verdi be- but they are better musicians than singers, B-movie aesthetic. Presented in 5.1 surround fore Sutherland offered “Home Sweet Home” so the instrumental selections work best, sound and stereo, extras include an audio to expected cheers (also featured is a ballet like Peterson’s “Tribute to Monk.” While too commentary, behind-the-scenes featurettes, interlude). Otherwise this staging, presented narrowly focused to have wide appeal, this a 1992 interview with Hazelmyer, bonus song in an English translation that invites much should still be considered a strong optional performances, a poster gallery, and a booklet. mugging from the cast, is a rather broad purchase. (K. Fennessy) Recommended. (K. Fennessy) affair, made all the more peculiar in that the Orlofsky role is taken by countertenor The Jam: About the Jochen Kowalksi rather than the traditional Der Freischütz HHH1/2 Young Idea HH1/2 (2015) 149 min. In German mezzo—although Sutherland’s husband (2014) 2 discs. 90 min. DVD: w/English subtitles, DVD: 2 Richard Bonynge’s conducting does bring a $19.98, Blu-ray: $24.98. Eagle discs, $39.99; Blu-ray: $39.99. solid lilt to the familiar tunes. Viewers also Rock Entertainment (avail. from C Major/Unitel Classica (dist. must suffer a prolonged comic riff at the most distributors). by Naxos of America). beginning of Act 3 by John Sessions as the In the late ‘70s, the work- Carl Maria von Weber’s jailer, which recalls the music hall as much ing-class British punk trio 1821 masterwork—a mile- as the operatic stage, and notes the presence The Jam had a somewhat different look and stone in the development of John Major, the newly-installed Prime sound compared to contemporary acts like of German Romantic opera—tells a super- Minister, in one of the venue’s boxes. Made the Sex Pistols, drawing on R&B influences natural tale that focuses on Max, a huntsman for British TV, this Die Fledermaus (The Bat) and sporting a ‘60s mod fashion style instead who is so anxious to win the hand of Agathe exhibits the visual and sonic limitations one of safety pins and torn clothing. The band’s in a shooting contest that he is persuaded would expect of a quarter-century-plus-old debut LP, 1977’s In the City, featured driving by Kaspar, a man who has sold his soul to TV production, but even though it will ap- the devil, to do the same in return for seven songs written by singer-guitarist Paul Weller, peal more to aficionados of Sutherland than backed by bassist Bruce Foxton, and drummer magic bullets that will always find their tar- Strauss, it is a fine tribute to one of the 20th gets. It would be difficult to imagine a more Rick Buckler—including the titular youth century’s greatest coloratura sopranos. Pre- anthem single that promised “we wanna potent presentation of Der Freischütz—which sented in PCM stereo, extras include bonus boasts a succession of memorable arias and say, we gonna tell ya/about the young idea.” segments of Sutherland singing famous arias Although only six years old when The Jam choruses—than this 2015 production from by Verdi, Donizetti, and Bellini excerpted the Dresden Semperoper. Christian Thiele- arrived on the music scene, Martin Freeman from filmed Opera Australia productions. A (Sherlock, The Hobbit) became a lifelong fan mann coaxes extraordinary playing from the strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek) Staatskapelle Dresden, while the vocalism is (“I know every lick of those records.”) Free- top-notch, with Michael König (Max), Sara man is one of several aficionados singing the Jakubiak (Agathe) and Georg Zeppenfeld (Kas- Giving Up the Ghosts: band’s praises in Bob Smeaton’s documentary par) all superb, and Christina Landshamer Closing Time at Doc’s profile, which presents a relatively anodyne adding a touch of joviality as Agathe’s good- Music Hall HH1/2 and controversy-free chronological portrait natured cousin Ännchen. Some may object (2014) 80 min. Blu-ray: $19.95. tracing the rise and rise of the group (in to director Axel Köhler’s updating of the ac- MVD Entertainment Group Britain, that is; The Jam’s political songs tion from the 17th century to what appears (avail. from most distributors). never caught fire in America) up through to be post-WWII, but he certainly creates a Respected music docu- the release of their sixth and final LP, 1982’s striking tableau for the key setting of Wolf’s mentary filmmaker Robert Mugge’s latest The Gift. Shortly thereafter, Weller—at the Glen, which features corpses hanging in the captures the last night at an influential music ripe old age of 23—walked away from it all air, bathed in hellish red lighting. In all, this venue: Doc’s Music Hall, which was origi- (forming the Style Council two years later, is a thoroughly gripping version of Weber’s nally a Muncie, IN, shoe store bought and and continuing to have a critically-acclaimed opera, even though the visuals are sometimes reinvented in 1992 by keyboard player John solo career to this day). Weller, Foxton, and a bit too dark (a deliberate effect of the light- Peterson, who oversaw the place for 20 years. Buckler are all on hand to visit key locations ing design). Presented in DTS 5.0 (DTS-HD In opening remarks, Peterson notes, “Yes, I’m in the band’s history while also offering 5.0 on the Blu-ray release) and PCM stereo, a real doctor.” He keeps his board certification reminiscences—although never onscreen this is highly recommended. (F. Swietek) in Western medicine up to date, while incor- together. In fact, “The Bitterest Pill”—the title porating Eastern systems such as Ayurvedic of a late single—of their breakup is essentially Die Fledermaus HH1/2 medicine into his practice. He opened Doc’s glossed over here (Foxton reputedly did not (1990) 197 min. DVD: 2 discs, $29.99; Blu- in order to revive the style of venues he played speak to Weller for 25 years, but he did appear ray: $24.99. Arthaus Musik (dist. by Naxos of in as a musician during the 1960s. In between on a 2010 Weller solo album). While the love America). full-length song performances here, Peterson and enthusiasm for the group is wonderful The big selling point of this December and his associates—including manager Mike to hear (full disclosure: The Jam rank as one 31, 1990 performance—mounted at the Martin—recount the place’s history. Associ- of my all-time favorite bands), the narrative Royal Opera House, Covent Garden—of ate Paul Troxel mentions ghosts that some here is ultimately a bit thin—no redemptive

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 78 MARCH/APRIL 2016 tales, no tear-filled reunions, not even sex a year after the release of her multi-platinum Kwiecie´n (Roger), Georgia Jarman (Queen and drugs to go along with the rock ‘n’ roll, Prism. Capturing a December performance Roxana), and Saimir Pirgu (the Shepherd) are just a well-deserved appreciation of a land- in Sydney, Australia, this concert features also utterly committed. This 2015 production mark band that many have never listened to. nine costumes and seven set changes—ev- is equally remarkable for Kasper Holten’s Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and erything a Perry fan could want. But aside staging, which is dominated by the statue of stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM from the acoustic segment, Perry spends so a gigantic human head (designed by Steffen stereo on Blu-ray, extras include additional much time jumping, dancing, and flying Aarfing), which rotates in Act 2 to reveal interviews and performances, as well as a through the air that live vocals here seem three levels—an observatory, a library, and a bonus DVD of The Jam performing a 22-song unlikely, since they would be wobbly at best. room with a group of writhing dancers—that set on the German TV show Rockpalast (with The staging makes little attempt to disguise correspond to Freud’s superego, ego, and audio options in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 the subterfuge, with dancers often taking the id. The costumes suggest an eclectic mix of and stereo). Although sometimes overdriven, place of her band, which means that some of styles and periods, with the Shepherd’s garb the DTS 5.1 concert sound is pretty good and their parts were probably pre-recorded as well. standing out in its bright, shimmering colors. the band is at their energetic best on classic Regardless, the spectacle’s the thing, and on Presented in DTS 5.1 and Dolby Digital stereo tunes such as “Going Underground,” “The that basis, Perry delivers the goods, singing on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo Eton Rifles,” and the haunting “Down in the the hits, like “California Gurls,” and never on Blu-ray, extras include audio commentary Tube Station at Midnight.” A strong optional forgetting that her audience consists primarily by Holten and Pappano, an introduction to purchase. (R. Pitman) of young girls (as shots of the crowd prove). the opera, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and She even brings two members up on stage, a a cast gallery. A worthy competitor to the Just Let Go: Lenny swimsuit-clad teenager with whom she takes 2009 Bregenz Festival production (VL-1/11), this mounting of an intriguing, provoca- Kravitz Live HH1/2 a selfie and an 8-year-old to whom she gives (2014) 166 min. DVD: $14.98, a box of pizza, which probably contains more tive modern opera is highly recommended. Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock tour merchandise than food. If Perry’s dance- (F. Swietek) Entertainment (avail. from pop sound doesn’t deviate much from song most distributors). to song, it certainly provides a hospitable Lady Antebellum: Wheels This 2014 European tour canvas for the visuals, which range from the Up Tour HHH documentary draws from lighted prism that brings her to the stage, (2015) 101 min. DVD: $14.98, several shows, interweav- to a short film featuring cat cut-outs, to the Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock ing song performances with interview animatronic horse she rides during the show’s Entertainment (avail. from clips. Although Lenny Kravitz plays most Egyptian portion. Even her guitarists join her most distributors). instruments when recording albums, he’s for a trip through the air during which their Nashville country-pop backed onstage by 11 musicians, includ- fret-boards spray sparks above the crowd. All trio Lady Antebellum (Dave ing guitarist Craig Ross, keyboard player told, it’s pretty fun stuff for those who value Haywood, Charles Kelley, George Laks, bass player Gail Ann Dorsey, stagecraft over musical innovation. Presented and Hillary Scott) put on a fan-friendly and drummer Cindy Blackman Santana. in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on show in this 2015 engagement from the Ross met Kravitz through Kathy Valentine DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Meadows Ampitheatre in Irvine, CA. On of the Go-Go’s, who introduced the two Blu-ray, extras include behind-the-scenes tour in support of their sixth album, 747, when Kravitz was recording under the name footage. Recommended. (K. Fennessy) the band serves up a polished 20-song set Romeo Blue, and they’ve been together (including a medley) that spans their career and influences. Between selections, behind- ever since. While the others haven’t been Król Roger HHH1/2 with Kravitz as long, the band’s versatility (2015) 88 min. In Polish w/ the-scenes material provides a glimpse helps make up for the generic quality of English subtitles. DVD or Blu- of stage planning, meet-and-greets, and the performer’s newer material, such as ray: $39.99. Opus Arte (dist. by other offstage activities. Early in the show, “Dirty White Boots” (“We’re gonna get it Naxos of America). Haywood introduces their backing band: on in your dirty white boots”) off 2014’s It has taken a long while Jonathan Long (keyboards), Dennis Ed- Strut, which isn’t as distinctive as the songs for Karol Szymonowski’s wards (bass), Clint Chandler (guitar, banjo, that brought him to fame in the 1990s, 1926 opera to win interna- mandolin), Jason “Slim” Gambill (guitar), like “Always on the Run,” “Fly Away,” and tional recognition, but this and Scott’s husband, Chris Tyrell (drums). “Are You Gonna Go My Way?” (all played excellent production of Król Roger at London’s Midway through the proceedings, Nash- here). In terms of musicianship, however, Royal Opera House suggests that the time has ville singer and mandolin player Hunter Kravitz and his band skillfully integrate finally come. The libretto—serving up a par- Hayes—their tour mate—joins the group for rock with funk and soul, and director Paul able of the struggle between emotion and in- three songs, including the collaborative ef- Dugdale incorporates interviews with each tellect inspired by Euripides’s The Bacchae—is fort “Where It All Begins,” and “Compass,” musician, as well as rehearsal footage. Pre- set in the 12th century and centers on a which Hayes performs solo. Aside from sented in Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on handsome young Shepherd accused of heresy the hits, such as the recent “Bartender,” DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on at the court of King Roger of Sicily for espous- the band plays songs from Shania Twain Blu-ray, this is a strong optional purchase. ing what amounts to hedonistic beliefs. The and Fleetwood Mac, giving them a chance (K. Fennessy) Shepherd’s words arouse Queen Roxana, who to stretch the borders of their mid-tempo goes off with him, after which Roger follows sound, particularly on Aerosmith’s hard- Katy Perry: Prismatic the pair to the East, where the Shepherd is re- rocking “Walk This Way.” All the while, World Tour Live HHH vealed as the god Dionysius, whose bacchant the irrepressible Haywood mingles with (2014) 147 min. DVD: $14.98, followers Roxana has joined. Szymonowski audience members at the front of the stage, Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock clothes this strange tale with music that is and encourages everyone to clap and sing Entertainment (avail. from extraordinary for its surging rhythms and along. Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital most distributors). voluptuous scoring, played to the hilt by the 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 Katy Perry’s Prismatic house orchestra under the baton of Antonio and LPCM stereo, this is recommended. World Tour began in 2014, Pappano. The vocalism and acting of Mariusz (K. Fennessy)

MARCH/APRIL 2016 79 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Lynyrd Skynyrd: Ballet since its premiere in hauled off to die and Martha pleading that 1842, August Bournonville’s the dead should never be forgotten nor their Pronounced ‘Leh-’nérd cheerfully silly combination killers forgiven. Weinberg’s score carries the ‘Skin-’nérd & Second of pantomime and dance narrative along powerfully, becoming tran- Helping Live from retains considerable charm scendent when it incorporates Bach’s famous Jacksonville at the despite some radical revi- Chaconne into the final scene—contrasting Florida Theatre HH1/2 sions made by the compa- a musical monument to German genius with (2015) 97 min. DVD: $14.98, ny’s artistic director, Nikolaj Nazi brutality. Mounted on a stunning set, Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock Entertainment (avail. Hübbe, and choreographer Sorella Englund The Passenger features intelligent direction from most distributors). in the 2009 version, which is presented here by David Pountney, intense orchestral work Playing in 2015 at the Florida Theatre in in a 2014 revival. In the first act, fisherman by the Vienna Symphony under Teodor Cur- their hometown of Jacksonville, ‘70s heyday Gennaro and local lass Teresina are madly in rentzis, and committed vocalism by Michelle Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd here love, despite the machinations of two other Breedt (Lisa), Elena Kelessidi (Martha), and perform in their entirety the band’s 1973 suitors who try to blacken Gennaro’s reputa- other members of the company. Presented in first and 1974 second albums—sort of. The tion. During a boat sailing, however, a storm Dolby Digital 5.0 and PCM stereo on DVD, qualifier is because this iteration of Lynyrd comes up and Teresina is lost at sea. In the and DTS-HD 5.0 and PCM stereo on Blu-ray, Skynyrd is pretty close to a tribute band— second act, Gennaro ventures to the under- this is highly recommended. (F. Swietek) boasting only one original member who water grotto where his fiancée is being held played on those early albums: guitarist Gary by the sea spirit Golfo, who has transformed Rebel Scum HH1/2 Rossington. Lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, her into a naiad (she remembers nothing (2015) 95 min. DVD: $14.95. who died along with other band members in of her past). Gennaro manages to awaken MVD Entertainment Group a tragic 1977 plane crash, has been replaced Teresina’s memory and take her back, where (avail. from most distributors). with his younger brother, Johnny Van Zant, in the third act the whole of Naples—having Filmmaker Video Rahim’s whose voice sounds similar, although his turned out for her funeral—instead celebrates Rebel Scum—a profile of constant lyric-interpretive hand signals grow the couple’s marriage. This version updates Knoxville country-punk tiresome and he takes American flag wor- the setting to the 1950s, but a greater shock quartet Dirty Works—is ship a little too far (one flag on the back of comes in Act II, when the original score—a one of those music documentaries that focus his jacket, another wrapped around the mic hodgepodge of numbers by Edvard Helsted, more on the antics of a band than on the mu- stand—Stars and Stripes, not the previously H.S. Paulli, and H.C. Lumbye—is replaced sic they make. Front man Christopher Scum is favored controversial Confederate flag). The by a modern one from Louise Alenius, such a physically unhinged performer that he seven-man band (and two backup singers) representing a stark shift in styles. Still, the leaves shows covered in blood—from hitting delivers the group’s signature three-guitar overall result remains engaging, especially his face with the microphone. Christopher attack—backed by bass, drums, keyboards since Alban Lendorf and Alexandra Lo Sardo is also a heroin addict who maintains his (and an extra horns and percussion rhythm make such an attractive pair as Gennaro and equilibrium by way of methadone, much like section on some songs)—on now-classic rock Teresina. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 his girlfriend, Renee (sadly, she died in a car hits including “I Ain’t the One,” “Tuesday’s on the Blu-ray release) and LPCM stereo, this accident after filming wrapped). Although Gone,” “Simple Man,” and “Call Me the colorful, unpretentious, whimsical produc- he grew up in Ohio, Christopher ended up Breeze,” as well as the megahits “Free Bird” tion is recommended. (F. Swietek) in the South when he ran away from home and “Sweet Home Alabama” (with its infa- to live with his aunt. About his addiction, he mous dig against Neil Young, although it The Passenger HHH1/2 says he was hyperactive as a kid and that his would be hard to deny the inspiration of (2010) 161 min. In German w/ parents put him on Ritalin, which he believes Young’s earlier “The Needle and the Damage English subtitles. DVD: $29.99, made him susceptible to heroin. His band Blu-ray: $39.99. Arthaus Done” on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s hard-rock “The Musik/Unitel Classica (dist. by mates include guitarist Steven Crime, bass Needle and the Spoon” here). Ultimately, this Naxos of America). player Shaggy, and drummer Bernard, while is a mixed bag. Does Rossington’s extended Mieczystaw Weinberg, a peripheral characters include trusty roadie solo on “Free Bird” still feel like one of the Polish composer who fled Drew and profane neighbor Lumpy. Dur- greatest guitar riffs in the history of rock? Yes, the 1939 Nazi invasion and ing the course of the film, the band spends it does. But while not quite oldies-tribute- spent the rest of his life in the Soviet Union, more time partying than either rehearsing band-on-the-casino-circuit material, this is remains relatively unknown despite a prolific or performing. Collateral damage along also not exactly vibrant freeform rock ‘n roll output that included seven operas. Presented the way includes Steven’s jail sentence for (although this band was never much into here in its first fully staged production—at a DUI, Shaggy’s ouster from the group, and improv jamming). And the caustic, biting the 2010 Bregenz Festival—The Passenger Christopher’s repeated attempts to set his hair slam against their record label, “Workin’ for (dating from 1967-68) is obviously a very on fire (failing only because the filmmaker MCA,” loses some sting here, considering that personal work for Weinberg, most of whose stops him). Somehow, the four make it to the the parent label for this release is Universal family perished in the death camps. An end of this film alive, although not all of their Music Group (as in formerly MCA/Univer- adaptation of a novel by Auschwitz survivor drug and alcohol-addicted friends are quite sal—cue Alanis Morissette). Presented in DTS Zofia Posmysz, the opera centers on Lisa, a so lucky. Extras include a “making-of” fea- 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and onetime female guard at Auschwitz who is turette, film premiere segment, music video, DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, now married to Walter, a diplomat. While and NPR coverage. A disturbing portrait of extras include a backstage interview with traveling by ship to Walter’s new post, Lisa the darker side of rock ‘n’ roll, this is a strong band members. A strong optional purchase. becomes convinced that a mysterious woman optional purchase. (K. Fennessy) (R. Pitman) onboard is actually Martha, a former prisoner Lisa had tried to blackmail by threatening Roger Waters: The Wall HHH Napoli HHH her fiancé Tadeusz with death. The libretto (2015) 133 min. DVD: $19.98, Blu-ray: $22.98. (2014) 105 min. DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: $39.99. juxtaposes shipboard scenes with flash- Universal Studios Home Entertainment (avail. from Opus Arte (dist. by Naxos of America). backs as Lisa reveals her past to her shocked most distributors). A repertory staple at the Royal Danish husband, and it closes with Tadeusz being Roger Waters and Sean Evans co-directed

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 80 MARCH/APRIL 2016 this film capturing Waters’s played with the band). Once they filled out eye-catching, musically vivid rendition is The Wall Live tour, which their ranks, the Scorpions won a battle of the recommended. (F. Swietek) became the highest-gross- bands that resulted in a recording contract. ing solo tour in history. In Now, the group is a more international affair, Unity: The Latin Tribute between performances of with American drummer James Kottak, who to Michael Jackson songs from Pink Floyd’s joined in 1996, and Polish bass player Paweł HHH classic 1979 album, the film Maciwoda, who signed on in 2003. During (2015) 60 min. DVD: $19.99 inserts scenes of Waters their farewell tour, the Scorpions also play ($49.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. driving through France and Italy while re- Moscow, significant because their 1990 song SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1- flecting on the father and grandfather he lost “Wind of Change” struck such a chord that 62789-537-8. to war. It’s like two films in one, with the road they recorded a version in Russian, which Produced by Peruvian- trip offering a respite from the busyness of led to a meeting with Gorbachev. The former American musician Tony Succar, this PBS- the stage sets that feature animated segments, Soviet Union president remembers, “That aired tribute to the hit songs of Michael Jack- puppet sequences, and dramatic lighting (11 was a time when rock gained recognition.” son as performed by Latin instrumentalists musicians fill out the sound, including G.E. If the beginning of the 1990s represented a and singers is an unexpected treat, offering Smith on guitar). In concert, Waters conjures high, the band soon experienced new lows as lots of musical color and flavor that brings up the past by singing “Mother” paired to their music fell out of fashion, but still they a whole new dimension to familiar music. footage of his 1980 self, whom he dismisses persevered through Meine’s throat problems Shot in a small venue with a large ensemble as “fucked up little Roger from all those years and an ill-fated flirtation with dance music. of players, standout tracks here include Jean ago.” In France, Waters’s adult children join The singer regrets that they were never as Rodriguez’s powerful take on “Billie Jean,” him to visit their great-grandfather’s grave popular in Germany as they were in other Kevin Ceballo’s spirited cover of “Man in site. He also meets up with director Peter countries, such as France, where “Still Lov- the Mirror” (as well as his playful versions Medak, who describes his wartime escape ing You” became the country’s top-selling of “Thriller” and “Black or White”), Obie from Hungary (oddly, Waters doesn’t identify single. Other speakers include KISS’s Paul Bermudez and Jennifer Pena’s silky, Span- Medak). There appears to be a twofold goal at Stanley, former drummer Herman Rarebell, ish-language duet on “I Just Can’t Stop Lov- work here: to protest the futility of war while and longtime producer Dieter Dierks. Recom- ing You,” Jon Secada’s thoughtful “Human also recognizing those who lost their lives to mended. (K. Fennessy) Nature,” and India’s “Earth Song.” Featuring it. A worthy aim, but Waters makes a tactical fine vocal work backed by expressive music, error when he appears clad in a Gestapo-style Turandot HHH Unity reworks classic radio pop songs with trench coat against a red and black back- (2015) 125 min. In Italian w/ extended salsa jams and percussion solos. ground of Fascist imagery as planes appear English subtitles, DVD: $24.99, Presented in 5.1 surround sound, this is Blu-ray: $39.99. C Major/Unitel to dive-bomb the stage. Audience members Classica (dist. by Naxos of recommended. (T. Keogh) raise their arms, and it looks like they are at America). a Nazi rally—the intended effect, but it plays Spectacle is often a major Whole Lotta Mugge more like endorsement than critique. On the selling point in the produc- plus side, the Blu-ray release offers a bonus tions mounted by the Bre- Renowned documentary filmmaker Robert disc with live performances of “Comfortably genz Festival, with its huge stage at the edge Mugge is showcased with the recent release Numb” and “Outside the Wall” featuring of Lake Constance (facing an arena that seats of two newly restored films that illustrate his Waters’s former band mates David Gilmour 7,000). In this 2015 staging by Marco Arturo talent for capturing music and dance around and Nick Mason, as well as extra segments. Marelli of Puccini’s final opera, however, the world. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 on DVD, and the flamboyance is easily matched by an Dolby TrueHD 7.1 on Blu-ray, extras on both impressive musical performance (with the Gil Scott-Heron in Black formats include “A Visit to Frank Thompson” standard Alfano completion). Fire-juggling Wax (MVD Entertainment (with Waters at the grave of a war hero) and acrobats and ninja-like figures (as well as Group, DVD or Blu-ray: “Time Lapses” (with footage from Athens a commedia dell’arte clown) occasionally $19.95). The spotlight shines and Buenos Aires). Sure to be popular, this is dart about the stage, which is dominated by on singer-songwriter and recommended, overall. (K. Fennessy) a sweeping version of the Great Wall (par- hip-hop forefather Gil Scott- tially rigged to collapse in an early scene). Heron in director Robert Scorpions: Forever and a Among the supernumeraries, moreover, Mugge’s 1982 documentary. Day HHH are men who look like terracotta figures, Extras include the compan- (2015) 100 min. In German although outfitted in Mao-era suits. That ion short subject Is That Jazz? w/English subtitles. DVD anachronistic touch is characteristic: while or Blu-ray: $19.95. MVD most of the Chinese characters are dressed Hawaiian Rainbow & Entertainment Group (avail. in traditional garb, the hero Calaf—who Kumu Hula: Keepers of a from most distributors). beats the imperious titular princess at the Culture (MVD Entertain- After playing music for game of riddles that dooms most of her ment Group, DVD: $19.95). 50 years and selling 100 million records, the suitors—is made up to resemble the com- Inspired by the state’s cul- German metal band the Scorpions embark poser himself in his last days, and the three ture and history, director on their final tour in Katja Von Garnier’s court ministers likewise wear early-20th- Robert Mugge combined documentary. Recalling their history while century suits, although sometimes with forces with future Hawaiian spending 18 months traveling to Thailand, brightly colored robes. The visual splendor governor (from 2010-14) Dr. Neil Abercrombie Beirut, and other cities, singer Klaus Meine is nicely complemented by excellent vocal- to motivate the Hawaii State Legislature to says he met the brother he never had when ism, especially from Riccardo Massi (Calaf), fund these educational films: 1987’sHawai - he connected with guitarist Rudolf Schenker Mlada Khudoley (Turandot), and Guanqun ian Rainbow on music and dance styles, in Hanover, discovering that they shared Yu (Liu), as well as strong playing by the and 1989’s Kumu Hula: Keepers of a Culture, similar goals and influences (through much Vienna Symphony under Paolo Carignani. which explores hula tradition through the of the decade, Rudolf’s brother, Michael, also Presented in DTS 5.0 and PCM stereo, this generations.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 81 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Distributor Addresses

Contact information for distribu- Kino Lorber Edu Weston Woods Studios 333 W. 39th St., Ste. 503 90 Old Sherman Tpke. tors of titles reviewed in this issue New York, NY 10018 Danbury, CT 06816 are listed below. Some titles must Tel: (212) 629-6880 Tel: (800) 243-5020 be ordered direct, while others are Web: kinolorberedu.com Web: westonwoods.scholastic.com available from a wide variety of Marshall Publishing Women Make Movies distributors. 1075 Bradford Ct. 115 W. 29th St., Ste. 1200 Elgin, IL 60120 New York, NY 10001 Tel: (888) 300-3455 Tel: (212) 925-0606 Web: marshallpub.com Web: wmm.com

Argot Pictures Music Box Films YMAA Publication Center 465 E. 7th St. #6V 173 N. Morgan St. P.O. Box 480 Brooklyn, NY 11218 Chicago, IL 60607 Wolfeboro, NH 03894 Tel: (646) 732-3725 Tel: (312) 241-1320 Tel: (800) 669-8892 Web: argotpictures.com Web: musicboxfilms.com Web: ymaa.com

The AV Cafe National Film Board of Canada 6201 S. 58th St., Ste. A P.O. Box 6100, Centre-Ville Station Lincoln, NE 68516 Montreal, Quebec H3C 3H5 CANADA Tel: (877) 228-2233 Tel: (800) 542-2164 Web: theavcafe.com Web: nfb.ca

Bullfrog Films Naxos of America P.O. Box 149 1810 Columbia Ave., Ste. 28 Oley, PA 19547 Franklin, TN 37064 Tel: (800) 543-3764 Tel: (615) 771-9393 Web: bullfrogfilms.com Web: naxos.com

California Newsreel New Day Films P.O. Box 3400 P.O. Box 165 Lancaster, PA 17601 Blooming Grove, NY 10914 Tel: (877) 811-7495 Tel: (888) 367-9154 Web: newsreel.org Web: newday.com

The Cinema Guild Passion River 115 W. 30th St., Ste. 800 154 Mt. Bethel Rd. New York, NY 10001 Warren, NJ 07059 Tel: (800) 723-5522 Tel: (732) 321-0711 Web: cinemaguild.com Web: passionriver.com

Collective Eye PBS Video 2305 SE Yamhill St., Ste. 101 2100 Crystal Dr. Portland, OR 97214 Arlington, VA 22202 Tel: (503) 232-5345 Tel: (800) 344-3337 Web: collectiveeye.org Web: pbs.org

Dreamscape Media Seventh Art Releasing 6940 Hall St. 6579 Pickwick St. Holland, OH 43528 Los Angeles, CA 90042 Tel: (877) 983-7326 Tel: (323) 259-8259 Web: dreamscapeab.com Web: 7thart.com

Film Movement TMW Media Group 109 West 27th St., Ste. 9B 2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd. New York, NY 10001 Venice, CA 90291 Tel: (866) 937-3456 Tel: (800) 262-8862 Web: filmmovement.com Web: tmwmedia.com

First Run Features Tugg 630 Ninth Ave., Ste. 1213 4210 Spicewood Springs Rd. New York, NY 10036 Austin, TX 78759 Tel: (800) 229-8575 Tel: (855) 321-8844 Web: firstrunfeatures.com Web: edu.tugg.com

Graham Street Productions The Video Project 1631 NE Broadway, #453 145 Ninth St., Ste. 102 Portland, OR 97232 San Francisco, CA 94103 Tel: (503) 282-8683 Tel: (800) 475-2638 Web: 14themovie.com Web: videoproject.com

Green Planet Films Vision Films P.O. Box 247 14945 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 306 Corte Madera, CA 94976 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Tel: (415) 377-5471 Tel: (818) 784-1702 Web: greenplanetfilms.org Web: visionfilms.net

Icarus Films Vision Video 32 Court St., 21st Fl. P.O. Box 540 Brooklyn, NY 11201 Worcester, PA 19490 Tel: (800) 876-1710 Tel: (800) 523-0226 Web: icarusfilms.com Web: visionvideo.com

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 82 MARCH/APRIL 2016 MUST-HAVES FROM THE CRITERION COLLECTION

PHOENIX BARCELONA I KNEW HER WELL ONLY ANGELS HAVE DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 WINGS ISBN: 978-1-68143-139-0 ISBN: 978-1-68143-135-2 ISBN: 978-1-68143-114-7 DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-131-4 ISBN: 978-1-68143-138-3 ISBN: 978-1-68143-134-5 ISBN: 978-1-68143-113-0 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-130-7

A BRIGHTER SUMMER PARIS BELONGS TO US THE MANCHURIAN A WHIT STILLMAN DAY DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 CANDIDATE TRILOGY DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-116-1 DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 DVD EDITION • SRP: $79.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-122-2 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-120-8 ISBN: 978-1-68143-133-8 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-115-4 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $79.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-121-5 ISBN: 978-1-68143-119-2 ISBN: 978-1-68143-132-1

A POEM IS A NAKED THE KENNEDY FILMS THE KID BICYCLE THIEVES PERSON OF ROBERT DREW & DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 ASSOCIATES ISBN: 978-1-68143-110-9 ISBN: 978-1-60465-732-6 ISBN: 978-1-68143-118-5 DVD EDITION • SRP: $29.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-137-6 ISBN: 978-1-68143-109-3 ISBN: 978-1-68143-117-8 BLU-RAY EDITION • SRP: $39.95 ISBN: 978-1-68143-136-9 AVAILABLE AT WWW.CRITERION.COM Visit www.baker-taylor.com/criterioncollection for the complete Criterion Collection. Title Index

12 Monkeys: Season One ...... 49 Daimidaler: Prince vs. Penguin Empire ...... 76 Mr. Robot: Season 1 ...... 51 14: Dred Scott, Wong Kim Ark & Vanessa Lopez ...... 60 Dance Like Starlight, A ...... 54 Mrs. Brown’s Boys: Complete Series ...... 51 Adam’s Passion ...... 77 Danish Girl, The ...... 3 My Depression ...... 59 Advanced Style ...... 67 Deathgasm ...... 20 Mystery Science Theater 3000 Volume XXXIV ...... 51 Agatha Christie’s Partners in Crime ...... 49 Deep in My Heart ...... 42 Napoli ...... 80 Aida ...... 77 Der Freischütz ...... 78 Natural Resistance ...... 30 Alice in Wonderland: Down the Rabbit Hole ...... 54 Diary of a Teenage Girl, The ...... 20 New Girlfriend, The ...... 32 Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth ...... 72 Die Fledermaus ...... 78 New Rijksmuseum, The ...... 70 All About E ...... 16 Dinner, The ...... 20 Nuclear Meltdown Disaster ...... 71 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip ...... 16 Disaster Playground ...... 20 Of Men and War ...... 59 Amorous ...... 16 Divide in Concord ...... 22 Old South ...... 61 Amy Schumer: Live at the Apollo ...... 68 Downton Abbey: Season 6—Final Season ...... 49 One Eyed Girl ...... 32 Angry Birds—Stella: The Complete First Season ...... 54 Dragonar Academy: Complete Series ...... 76 Our Brand Is Crisis ...... 32 Arresting Power ...... 62 Dragonball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ ...... 76 Paolo Gioli: The Complete Filmworks ...... 46 Assassin, The ...... 16 Dreams Rewired ...... 67 Paranormal Activity: Ghost Dimension ...... 32 Assassination ...... 16 Drown ...... 22 Passage to Marseilles ...... 46 At the Beach ...... 59 E.O. Wilson: Of Ants and Men ...... 73 Passenger, The ...... 80 Back on Board: Greg Louganis ...... 68 Eden ...... 22 Pauline at the Beach ...... 46 BaddDDD Sonia Sanchez ...... 73 Element: Beginner Level Yoga ...... 65 Pearl Button, The ...... 32 Ballad of the Weeping Spring, The ...... 16 Empire ...... 70 Pedestal Dining Table ...... 68 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! Season 1, Part 1 ...... 54 Emptying the Skies ...... 22 Piggy Tales: Complete First Season ...... 58 Being Canadian ...... 60 End, The ...... 42 Piper, The ...... 34 Better Call Saul: Season One ...... 49 Extant: The Second Season ...... 49 Pitfall ...... 46 Prince ...... 34 Bite Size ...... 64 Far From Men ...... 22 Fear the Walking Dead: Complete First Season ...... 50 Prophet, The ...... 34 Black Stone Cherry—Thank You ...... 77 Few Good Pie Places, A ...... 66 Pull of Gravity ...... 62 Blind ...... 18 French Village: Season 1 ...... 50 Quakers: That of God in Everyone ...... 59 Bluebird Man ...... 63 Full of Grace ...... 24 Queen of Earth ...... 34 Bomb, The ...... 71 Gabo: The Creation of Gabriel Garcia Márquez ...... 73 Ray Donovan: Season Three ...... 51 Brain, The ...... 64 Getting On: Complete Second Season ...... 50 Rebel Scum ...... 80 Buddy Complex: Complete Series ...... 76 Ghost Story ...... 42 Restless ...... 52 Burroughs: The Movie ...... 40 Girl King, The ...... 24 Riddle Story of Devil: Complete Series ...... 76 Carol ...... 18 Girl Like Her, A ...... 24 River Between Us, A ...... 64 Cavedigger ...... 69 Giving Up the Ghosts ...... 78 Roger Waters: The Wall ...... 80 Changed Forever ...... 59 Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief ...... 24 Salam Neighbor ...... 61 Chaplin’s Essanay Comedies 1915 ...... 40 Good Dinosaur, The ...... 24 Samba ...... 34 Chau, Beyond the Lines ...... 60 Goosebumps ...... 26 Scaredy Squirrel at Night ...... 58 Chi-Raq ...... 18 Grandma ...... 26 Scorpions: Forever and a Day ...... 81 Child Is Waiting, A ...... 41 Guidance ...... 26 Secrets of War ...... 36 Cinderella ...... 77 Handmade with Love in France ...... 67 Shameless: Complete Fifth Season ...... 52 Circle Unbroken ...... 72 Hard Day, A ...... 26 Shaun the Sheep: Season One ...... 52 Clearstream Affair, The ...... 18 Henry and Anne: The Lovers Who Changed History ...71 Show Me a Hero ...... 52 Cody High: A Life Remodeled Project ...... 60 High Cost of Cheap Gas, The ...... 60 Simplified Tai Chi for Beginners ...... 65 Color of Noise, The ...... 77 Hillary Rodham Clinton: Some Girls Are Born Sinatra: All or Nothing at All ...... 75 Comin’ at Ya! ...... 41 to Lead ...... 54 Sinister 2 ...... 36 Couples Workouts for Health and Happiness ...... 65 How to Change the World ...... 61 Sleeping With Other People ...... 36 Creed ...... 20 How to Smell a Rose ...... 69 Some Kind of Spark ...... 62 Cut, The ...... 20 Huevos: Little Rooster’s Egg-Cellent Adventure ...... 26 Songs From the North ...... 36 Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2 ...... 26 South Park: Complete Eighteenth Season ...... 52 I Am What I Play ...... 70 Speedy ...... 46 I Believe in Unicorns ...... 27 Spotlight ...... 36 I Hope You Dance ...... 27 States of Grace ...... 64 Advertiser Directory Ikiru ...... 42 Steak (R)evolution ...... 37 In the Basement ...... 27 Steve Jobs ...... 37 Action! Library Media Service ...... 68 Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective ...... 63 Sticky: A (Self) Love Story ...... 66 Baker & Taylor Entertainment ...... 2 Inside Amy Schumer: Season 3 ...... 50 Stonewall ...... 37 BayView Entertainment ...... 66 Iron Ministry, The ...... 27 Storm Makers, The ...... 61 Bennett-Watt HD Productions ...... 62 Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Sunshine Superman ...... 37 Breaking Glass Pictures ...... 39 Gorilla ...... 56 Sweaty Betty ...... 37 Jaco ...... 73 That is NOT a Good Idea! ...... 58 Cerebellum Corp...... 87 Jam: About the Young Idea ...... 78 Tokyo Fiancée ...... 37 Criterion ...... 83 Jellyfish Eyes ...... 27 Tokyo Tribe ...... 38 Dark Hollow Films ...... 63 Julien Duvivier in the Thirties ...... 42 Top Spin ...... 38 Dreamscape ...... 57 Just Eat It ...... 67 True Detective: Complete Second Season ...... 53 Entertainment One ...... 5, 13, 23, 33, 43 Just Let Go: Lenny Kravitz Live ...... 79 Trumbo ...... 38 Film Movement ...... 17, 19 Kathy Smith: FastFit 10-Minute Miracle ...... 65 Truth ...... 38 Films Media Group ...... 69 Katy Perry: Prismatic World Tour Live ...... 79 Turandot ...... 81 First Run Features ...... 21 Kindergarten Teacher, The ...... 28 Turned Towards the Sun ...... 75 Green Planet Films ...... 86 Król Roger ...... 79 Twice Told Tales ...... 47 Icarus Films ...... 9 Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck ...... 75 Uncle John ...... 38 Janson Media ...... 11 Lady Antebellum: Wheels Up Tour ...... 79 Under the Dome: Season 3 ...... 53 Kino Lorber Education ...... 7 Last Witch Hunter, The ...... 28 Undesirable, The ...... 47 Learning ZoneXpress ...... 62 Leslie Sansone—Just Walk ...... 65 Unity: The Latin Tribute to Michael Jackson ...... 81 Master Communications, Inc...... 4 Like You Mean It ...... 28 Unleashed! A Dog Dancing Story ...... 40 Midwest Tape ...... 88 Looking at Lincoln ...... 56 UnREAL: Season 1 ...... 53 Music Box Films ...... 25, 35 Looking Glass, The ...... 28 Uyghurs: Prisoners of the Absurd ...... 71 MVD Entertainment Group ...... 47 Lost Lost Lost & Walden ...... 46 Volcanoes & Extreme Landscapes ...... 72 National Film Board of Canada ...... 44, 45 Love’s Labour’s Lost & Love’s Labour’s Won ...... 70 Voyeur, The ...... 48 National Media Market (NMM) ...... 6 Lynyrd Skynyrd ...... 80 Walk On ...... 68 Macbeth ...... 28 Wayward Pines ...... 53 NCircle Entertainment ...... 55 Maison Close: Season Two ...... 50 What Have You Done to Solange? ...... 48 Oscilloscope Pictures ...... 29 Making Rounds ...... 30 Why Do Bullies Bully? ...... 62 PBS Video ...... 85 Mama Sherpas, The ...... 66 Wind in the Willows, The ...... 48 Strand Releasing ...... 31 Man Up ...... 30 Women of ’69, Unboxed ...... 61 TM Books & Video ...... 58 Marco Polo: Complete First Season ...... 51 Xenia ...... 40 Touch the Wall ...... 68 Martian, The ...... 30 You Belong to Me ...... 63 Vision Films ...... 41 Meet the Patels ...... 30 You Can’t Take It With You ...... 48 Vision Video ...... 15 Mississippi Grind ...... 30 Youth ...... 40 Momokyun Sword: Complete Collection ...... 76 Zoo: Season One ...... 53

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The PBS logo is a registered trademark of the Public Broadcasting Service and is used with permission. Final Frame

words of the visibly disgusted priest in particular sense), but in Harold and Maude). this issue alone three oth- Sex! Sex! Sex! Still, I can’t argue the fact that our con- ers fi lms also warrant that Ok, now that I have your complete, un- temporary world is nothing like the one 30 term: Austrian director divided, and possibly somewhat breathless years ago in which I was building a video Ulrich Seidl’s In the Base- attention, let’s talk about sex. Or, more collection for a public library (as I recall, my ment (with S&M scenes that are more than specifi cally, sex in cinema. biggest challenge was keeping copies of The 50 shades of grey); Sticky: A (Self) Love During editing for this issue, our associ- Last Temptation of Christ—which kept magi- Story, Nicholas Tana’s documentary about ate editor, Jazza Williams-Wood—who is an cally disappearing—on the shelves). masturbation; and Italian fi lmmaker Tinto excellent young thirtysomething wielder How different is it? Brass’s 1994 erotic semi-classic The Voyeur of the red pen—crossed out a remark in Item: Playboy no longer has nudity (too (featuring prosthetic penises). reviewer Tom Keogh’s write-up on Norwe- blasé in the Internet age of readily avail- Sex in cinema is on the rise. We used the gian director Eskil Vogt’s feature fi lm Blind. able porn). word “adventurous” in its coded alternate The line in question referred to “brief ex- Item: Sports Illustrated features a plus- sense a total of six times in 2015; in this is- plicit images of downloaded pornographic sized woman on the front of its Swimsuit sue alone, it appears four times (and for you content.” Issue. print subscribers looking for a good reason Jazza felt that the tacked-on clause com- Item: Library Journal now has a book to upgrade to Video Librarian Plus!, let me ing at the end of the review was a little awk- review section devoted to “Erotica.” just say that a librarian could build a fairly ward (true) and that brief explicit images Item: Video Librarian has its fi rst trans- decent fi lms-with-a-touch-of-porn collec- were “not really a big deal” (egads!). gender woman on the cover. tion just by doing a text search on “adven- Over the past decade-plus, Jazza and I Today, Edwin Meese would be having turous” in our online review database). have had our editorial differences. She, for a p o p l e c t i c fi t s . Of course, we will still alert readers about instance, will always change my “U.K.” to But getting back to sex in cinema: long- graphic content, and librarians will con- “UK,” and I, in turn, will always ignore it. time readers of Video Librarian are un- tinue to make selections suitable for their Like civil politicians (surely an oxymoron), doubtedly aware that we use a code word individual communities. we agree to disagree. for movies or documentaries featuring And speaking of sex, when you see a But on the sex thing, well, following fur- sexually-explicit material. You will see this reference to the Sex Pistols’ “Anarchy in ther discussion (Peoria was mentioned), we at the end of the review for Blind: “Highly the U.K.” actually printed as “Anarchy in agreed that Video Librarian would continue recommended for more adventurous col- the UK,” you will know that the editorial to alert readers whenever films featured lections [italics added].” Over the years, mantle has offi cially been passed. naughty bits “commingling” (in the famous we have used this word sparingly (in this Randy Pitman 55 MINS | PAL DVD | English Streaming file has optional subtitles

APRIL 2 is World Autism Awareness Day “The world has two choices: We can have elephants or we can have ivory trade. We can’t have both.”

Allan Thornton Environmental Investigation Agency

20% 52 MINS | CLOSED CAPTIONED OFF CODE VL316 HABITAT - PIKA, PIKA - RIVER RUN - WEB OF LIFE - IF i WERE A TREE - BUFFALO LOVE, and more

A Kid for the Wild 11 catchy ecology music videos set in Yellowstone 87 MINS | CLOSED CAPTIONED

From moderate cases to extreme, the film explores what it’s like living with autism on a day-to-day basis. Chapters “I think this movie might be good for people who do not understand what the word Autism means so that they may realize all that we bring.” Conner B. 22 years old ~ Film reviewer living inside the autism spectrum

FILMS FOR EARTH DAY TRASHED, SAND WARS, WHO BOMBED JUDI BARI, THE HIGH COST OF CHEAP GAS, BLUEBIRD MAN, NEW FARMS-BIG SUCCESS, LITTLE MISS DEWIE PO Box 247 | Corte Madera, CA 94976 | 415-377-5471 | [email protected] www.greenplanetfilms.org DVDs: GPF, Midwest Tape, AV Cafe, Follett. Digital: Kanopy, Hoopla, Overdrive

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