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January-February 2014

VOL. 29 THE VIDEO REVIEW MAGAZINE FOR LIBRARIES NO. 1

IN THIS ISSUE More Than Honey | It’s a Girl | Two American Families | The March | Photo | Untold History of the | Strongman 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

More Than Honey a New beekeeper who switched to HHH1/2 killer bees when he discovered that they are (2012) 91 min. DVD: more productive, require fewer resources, Publisher/Editor: Randy Pitman $29.95, Blu-ray: $34.95 and boast hardier immune systems (how- (avail. from most ever, unlike Jaggi, he has to suit up to Associate Editor: Jazza Williams-Wood distributors), $349 w/ handle these African-born bees). Imhoof PPR (avail. from www. Copy Editor: Kathleen L. Florio kinolorberedu.com). Kino even takes a brief trip to , where labor- Editorial Assistant: Chris Pitman Lorber. ers painstakingly pollinate trees by hand, before concluding in Graphic Designer: Carol Kaufman S w s s d i r e c t o r Markus Imhoof’s More with his biologist son-in-law, who is raising Marketing Director: Anne Williams Than Honey—centering on the mysterious healthier bees that could be instrumental disappearance of the honeybee worldwide— in stemming the tide of colony collapse Contributing Writers takes an intimate and artistic approach to disorder, which—to Imhoof—seems to be the subject, offering close-up views on the more of a multi-faceted problem involving Kathleen C. Fennessy, Reviewer, a variety of harmful factors. Peter Scherer’s .com world of the hive (the film is ’s official Academy Award submission). Imhoof string-based score adds to the elegiac tone, Erika Gieschen, Teacher, Norwalk-La Mirada starts by profiling Fred Jaggi, an alpine man while actor serves as narrator (the Unified School District of County who feels no need for protective gear (“I’m original German version is also included Sam Graham, Reviewer, Amazon.com not a sissy”). Although his family’s cannery here). Extras include an interview with Susan Granger, SSG Syndicate business once revolved around fruits and Imhoof, behind-the-scenes , Donald Liebenson, Reviewer, vegetables, today it’s all about bees and deleted scenes, and a photo gallery. Boast- , Amazon.com honey. As Jaggi notes, “they fed our family,” ing exquisite macro-cinematography by Stephen Rees, Librarian, Bucks Co. Free and beekeeping seems to suit him fine until Jörg Jeshel that takes viewers down to the Library, Levittown, PA the queen makes a move that devastates his microscopic level inside the world of bees, Frank Swietek, Associate Professor colonies (fortunately, breeders can create this is a gorgeous-looking and thought- of History, University of Dallas, TX more queens, allowing Jaggi to start all over provoking documentary—with a cover again). From there, Imhoof turns his atten- quote from Albert Einstein that reminds us: Additional Contributors: tion to a migratory beekeeper who travels “if bees were to disappear from the globe, through North Carolina, , and mankind would only have four years left Sean Axmaker Washington state, helping farmers pollinate to live.” Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. Carson Block fruit and nut crops. And viewers also meet (K. Fennessy) Charles Cassady Ted Fry Fran Gardner Phil Hall TABLE OF CONTENTS Tom Keogh Kendahl Kruver Lisa Martincik Health & Fitness Maureen Puffer-Rothenberg Video Newsbriefs 6 63 Michael Sandlin Books Into Movies 8 Childbirth & Parenting 64 Jeff Shannon Mixed Media 10 Relationships & Sexuality 64 Video Movies 18 Food & Spirits 65 Video Librarian (ISSN: 0887-6851) is pub- lished bi-monthly by Video Librarian, TV on Video 41 Sports, Games & Recreation 66 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA 98370. Subscriptions: $64 for one year 2013 Best Documentaries 49 The Arts 66 in the United States; $69 (US) in Canada (includes GST); $86 elsewhere. Address all Key to Star Ratings 51 History & Current Events 70 correspondence to Video Librarian, 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA 98370. Peri- Video Reviews 51 Travel & Geography 72 odicals Postage Paid at Poulsbo, WA and at additional mailing offices.POSTMASTER: Children’s 51 Biography 73 Send address changes to Video Librarian, 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA Psychology & Self-Help 54 Series Update 74 98370. Copyright © 2014 by Randy Pitman. All rights reserved. Religion & Philosophy 55 Japanese 75 Telephone/Fax/E-mail Social & Political Issues 56 Music/Dance 76 Subscriptions: (800) 692-2270 Editorial: (360) 626-1259 Teen Issues 60 Distributor Addresses 82 Advertising: (800) 265-7965 Fax: (360) 626-1260 Education 61 Title Index 84 E-mail: [email protected] Law & Crime Advertiser Directory Web: www.videolibrarian.com 61 84 Nature, Math & Science 62 Final Frame 86

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 3 VIDEO LIBRARIAN “a bowl of fruit doesn’t really grab me” - Colin Murray, Graphic Novelist

Currently on worldwide festival tour.

Stimulating the intellect and providing the opportunity to explore one’s own natural voyeuristic urges, Semi Colin delves deeply into the mind of erotic illustrator Colin Murray. Part performance, part art and very much part social commentary, the recluse artist finally surfaces to philosophize on his life’s work.

Award winning director Damien Lay’s Semi Colin is a well-crafted exploration into a universal conundrum: What is art and what is not?

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A SignATUre Film From Director Robert Greenwald Unmanned: America’s Drone Wars investigates the impact that U.S. drone strikes have across the globe. The film reveals the realities of drone warfare—the violation of international law, the loss of life, the far-reaching implications for the communities that live under drones, and the resulting blowback the United States faces. Unmanned makes an urgent case that drone strikes create more instability than peace.

“Unmanned is essential viewing if you want to understand what’s going on.” – “Provides a solid overview of drone policy—it covers signature strikes, double-tap strikes and the very vague legal framework used to justify the policy.” – The Nation

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VL_9Ad_5.indd 1 11/25/13 10:48 PM NEW Video Newsbriefs

F.W. Murnau’s “Sunrise” Bows inated series at the NEW 2013 on Blu-ray on January 14 from follows the battling 20th Century Fox families of the Sev- en Kingdoms, who 20th Century Fox Studio Classics has continue to fight announced the Blu-ray debut of the 1929 for power as bonds Academy Award-winning classic Sunrise are strained, loyal- (Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $29.99), slated for ties are tested, and release on January 14. Director F.W. Mur- cruel fates are met nau’s story of betrayal and redemption in this acclaimed show based on George earned Oscars at the first R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire fantasy ceremony in 1929 for the most “Unique novels. DVD/Blu-ray extras include pro- Worlds Together and Artistic Picture,” Best Actress (Janet Learn about the culture, history, food, duction featurettes, extended and deleted Gaynor), and Best Cinematography. The scenes, and audio commentaries. Exclu- geography and people. Closed-captioned. love and loyalty of a farmer and his wife Free Teacher’s Guide. 25 min. Ages 10+. sive to the Blu-ray release are interactive are put to the ultimate test in this classic si- guides, illustrated histories, and behind- $29.95 each lent film that utilized the groundbreaking V3212 Colombia 978-1-60480-156-9 the-scenes segments on the pivotal episode Fox Movietone sound system—making it “The Rains of Castamere.” V3213 Cuba 978-1-60480-157-6 one of the first studio films with a true V3214 Ecuador 978-1-60480-158-3 soundtrack, featuring music and sound V3215 Tibet 978-1-60480-108-8 effects. Presenting both the original Fox “The Jungle Book: Diamond V3202 Ethiopia 978-1-60480-106-4 Movietone and European silent versions, V3203 East Africa 978-1-60480-107-1 Edition” Blu-ray Slated for extras include audio commentary by ASC V3201 West Africa 978-1-60480-105-7 February 11 from Walt Disney www.worldstogether.com cinematographer John Bailey, outtakes, the screenplay, and restoration notes. Walt Disney Studios has announced the upcoming high-definition debut of Families of the World “: Season 4” the animated classic The Jungle Book: Dia- mond Edition (DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray/DVD Hits January 28 from PBS Combo: $39.99), arriving February 11. On January 28, PBS Distribution will Based on Rudyard Kipling’s classic 1894 release Downton Abbey: Season 4 (DVD: novel, the 1967 song-filled celebration 3 discs, $49.99; Blu-ray: 3 discs, $54.99), of friendship, fun, and adventure was compiling the fourth season of the Emmy, Disney’s 19th animated masterpiece. Golden Globe, and Featuring jazzy, toe-tapping songs—in- award-winning ensemble drama—cre- cluding “I Wan’na Be Like You” and the ated and written by —that Academy Award-nominated classic “The has become the most-watched drama in Bare Necessities”—the story follows young PBS history. The new season brings new boy Mowgli on a fun-filled journey with “Recommended.” cast members, including unforgettable characters, including wise BL • SLJ • VL • LJ as Cora’s brother, Harold, and panther Bagheera, jazzy King Louie, www.familiesoftheworld.com returning stars , Laura hypnotic snake Kaa, and lovable, happy- V1875 Philippines 978-1-60480-112-5 Carmichael, , Elizabeth Mc- go-lucky bear Baloo. Bonus features will V1876 978-1-60480-113-2 include intros by Diane Disney Miller and V1877 Italy 978-1-60480-155-2 Govern, and Dame . Six months after the events at the end of the lyricist Richard M. Sherman, an alternate Families of the World third season, the Crawleys are beginning ending, the production featurettes “Spark- Families of Families of Japan to recover from tragedy, and the servants ing Creativity” and “Music, Memories & Families of Australia Families of Kenya are also bucking up, with new arrivals, Mowgli,” a “Bear-E-Oke” sing-along, and Families of Families of Korea departures, rivalries, and betrayals among more. Families of Canada Families of Mexico the downstairs staff. Families of China More Families of Mexico Families of Costa Rica Families of Panama Corrections Families of Egypt Families of Philippines Third Season of “Game of In our “highly recommended” review Families of Families of Puerto Rico Thrones” Arrives February 18 of Shelter Island/TDC’s Wings of a War- Families of Germany Families of Russia rior: The Jimmy Doolittle Story on page 77 Families of Ghana Families of Sweden from HBO of the November/December 2013 issue, Families of Guatemala Families of Thailand the videographic header information was Families of India Families of UK Game of Thrones: The Complete Third Families of Italy Families of USA Season (DVD: 5 discs, $59.99; Blu-ray/DVD accidentally cut off—the line beneath the Families of Israel Families of Vietnam Combo: 7 discs, $79.98) is slated for release title should have read: “(2013) 84 min. DVD: $14.98. (avail. from most distribu- $29.95 each • V1877S Set of 28 $838.60 on February 18 from HBO Home Video. Part political , part epic fantasy, the tors). ISBN: 978-1-939517-08-1.” Also in 2013 third season introduced TV view- the same issue, the Editor’s Choice review ers to the fabled and controversial “Red of The Cinema Guild’s Step Up to the Plate master-comm.com Wedding.” Starring Lena Headey, Emilia on page 67 should have had 4 stars, not 3. .com/mastercommunications Clarke, and Peter Dinklage, the most nom- We apologize for the errors. Phone: 1-513-563-3100

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 6 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014

THE AMERICAN DREAM ISN’T DEAD DEAD ISN’T DREAM AMERICAN THE CRAFTING A N NATION NATION N A CRAFTING ONE CRAFT BEER AT A TIME E M I T A T A R E E B T F A R C E N O

The American craft beer industry is unlike any industry ever seen before in America. It began began It America. in before seen ever industry any unlike is industry beer craft American The its rise during the worst economic crisis in America since the Great Depression. Depression. Great the since America in crisis economic worst the during rise its

In 2012, as the craft beer movement was sweeping the country, a team of visionary young young visionary of team a country, the sweeping was movement beer craft the as 2012, In filmmakers with a passion for both and craft beer, set out to tell the story story the tell to out set beer, craft and film documentary both for passion a with filmmakers of how the American Dream is alive and well. The feature-length documentary film,Crafting Crafting film, documentary feature-length The well. and alive is Dream American the how of A Nation, is the result. result. the is Nation, A

Filmed in California, Colorado, Texas, Missouri, Delaware, Massachusetts, and North North and Minnesota Massachusetts, Delaware, Missouri, Texas, Colorado, California, in Filmed Carolina, Crafting A Nation features breweries, small businesses, and individuals across America. America. across individuals and businesses, small breweries, features Nation A Crafting Carolina, Individuals with passion and dedication. Individuals with the single-minded focus and determina- determina- and focus single-minded the with Individuals dedication. and passion with Individuals tion needed to beat the long odds presented by the economic downturn. Crafting A Nation is is Nation A Crafting downturn. economic the by presented odds long the beat to needed tion about the craft brewing movement, but it’s much more than that. It’s about entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship, about It’s that. than more much it’s but movement, brewing craft the about vision, and the American Dream. Dream. American the and vision,

“When the young director of Beer Culture, a documentary about the success of Colorado breweries, saw saw breweries, Colorado of success the about documentary a , Culture Beer of director young the “When how well the film was received, he decided to tell the larger story: that American craft breweries are buoy- buoy- are breweries craft American that story: larger the tell to decided he received, was film the well how ing the national economy. Crafting a Nation takes the viewer into the cold storage and barrel rooms of a slew slew a of rooms barrel and storage cold the into viewer the takes Nation a Crafting economy. national the ing of breweries, large and small, across the country. “ - Beer Advocate Magazine Magazine Advocate Beer - “ country. the across small, and large breweries, of

“The film is inspiring and you’ll find yourself rooting for Chad, Carissa, and Branden from Black Shirt Brew- Brew- Shirt Black from Branden and Carissa, Chad, for rooting yourself find you’ll and inspiring is film “The LENGTH: 95 Minutes • MSRP: $24.95 $24.95 MSRP: • Minutes 95 LENGTH: ing each step of the way as Kolicko, Harris and the rest of the film crew capture their story with artful PRICE WITH PPR: $295 $295 PPR: WITH PRICE artful with story their capture crew film the of rest the and Harris Kolicko, as way the of step each ing PRICE WITH DSL: $495 $495 DSL: WITH PRICE cinematography, soulful interviews, and a touch of empathy.” -Growler Mag PRICE WITH PPR AND DSL: $595 $595 DSL: AND PPR WITH PRICE Mag Growler - empathy.” of touch a and interviews, soulful cinematography, CATALOG# 20549 • UPC# 6-4603205499-6 6-4603205499-6 UPC# • 20549 CATALOG#

AVAILABLE FROM ALL MAJOR DISTRIBUTORS View trailers online: online: trailers View DISTRIBUTORS MAJOR ALL FROM AVAILABLE www.janson.com • [email protected] www.janson.com www.janson.com [email protected] • www.janson.com Become a fan on Facebook on fan a Become www.facebook.com/jansonmedia www.youtube.com/jansonmedia www.youtube.com/jansonmedia www.facebook.com/jansonmedia Books Into Movies

The following films based on books and . are slated to open during January and February. Movie release dates are sub- Vampire Academy ject to change. (Feb. 14) is based on the 2007 first book in Richelle Coming in January Mead’s six-part YA para- normal romance novel The Adventurer: series. Directed by Mark The Curse of the Waters, the film stars Midas Box (Jan. 10) Zoey Deutch, Lucy Fry, is based on Mariah and Joely Richardson. Mundi: The Midas Box, the 2007 first novel in Winter’s Tale (Feb. 14) G.P. Taylor’s YA fan- is based on Mark Helprin’s tasy series. Directed NYC-set 1983 fantasy by Jonathan Newman, novel. Directed by Akiva the film stars Aneurin Barnard as teen Goldsman, the film stars protagonist Mariah. , Jennifer Con- nelly, , and Labor Day ( Jan. Colin Farrell as central 31) is adapted from character Peter Lake. Joyce Maynard’s 2009 coming-of-age novel. In Secret (Feb. 21) is Directed by Jason Re- based on Émile Zola’s itman, the film stars 1867 novel Thérèse Raquin , Josh and a 1991 play adapta- Brolin, and Dylan tion by Neal Bell. Director Minnette. Charlie Stratton’s roman- tic murder drama stars Coming in February , Tom Fel- ton, and . The Monuments Men (Feb. 7) is based Looking Ahead on Robert M. Edsel’s 2009 nonfiction book Slated for March is Di- The Monuments Men: vergent, director Neil Allied Heroes, Nazi Burger’s adaptation of the Thieves and the Great- 2011 first installment in est Treasure Hunt in Veronica Roth’s dystopian History. Directed by sci-fi YA trilogy, starring , the star-studded WWII Shailene Woodley, Theo drama features Clooney, Matt Damon, James, and Kate Winslet. , and John Goodman.

About Last Night Coming in April is (Feb. 14) is a con- Heaven is for Real, based temporary update of on Christian pastor Todd ’s 1974 Burpo’s 2010 play Sexual Perversity Times bestseller Heaven is in and Edward for Real: A Little Boy’s As- Zwick’s 1986 film ad- tounding Story of His Trip to aptation. Directed Heaven and Back. Directed by Steve Pink, the by Randall Wallace, the stars Kevin Hart, drama stars Greg Kinnear, Kelly Reilly, and Michael Ealy, and Regina Hall. .

Endless Love (Feb. Slated for May is In- 14) is based on Scott herent Vice, director Spencer’s 1979 novel ’s and Franco Zeffirelli’s adaptation of Thomas 1981 film adaptation. Pynchon’s 2009 detective Directed by Shana novel, featuring a star- Feste, the romantic studded cast that includes drama about a teen Jena Malone, Josh Brolin, couple’s love affair , Reese stars Alex Pettyfer, Gabriella Wilde, Witherspoon, and .

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 8 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 ACCLAIMED 2013 U.S. THEATRICAL RELEASE 2013 U.S. THEATRICAL RELEASE ACCLAIMED 2013 U.S. THEATRICAL RELEASE BASED ON THE INTERNATIONAL IN THE ACTION-PACKED TRADITION OF ITALY’S ACADEMY AWARDS® ENTRY FOR BEST-SELLER AND ENEMY OF THE STATE BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM DVD: CMG-DV-7575 • UPC: 741952757597 • $24.98 SRP DVD: CMG-DV-7635 • UPC: 741952763598 • $24.98 SRP DVD: CMG-DV-7626 • UPC: 741952762690 • $29.98 SRP BLU-RAY: CMG-BD-7576 • UPC: 741952757696 • $34.98 SRP BLU-RAY: CMG-BD-7636 • UPC: 741952763697 • $34.98 SRP BLU-RAY: CMG-BD-7627 • UPC: 741952762799 • $39.98 SRP AVAILABLE NOW AVAILABLE NOW AVAILABLE NOW

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ACADEMY AWARD ® is the registered trademark and service mark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. Mixed Media

Mixed Media features new release of the Final Fantasy XIII Rayman Legends (UbiSoft, PS4/XOne: information on upcoming video third-person role-play- $59.99, Rated: E10+). Bringing the critically games and TV series on DVD/Blu-ray, ing series, players return acclaimed game to the next-gen consoles as well as notable older titles that are to the world of Gran PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, this sequel re-priced or new to DVD/Blu-ray. Pulse, where heroine to one of the best platformers of 2011 is a Lightning is tasked with strikingly-animated third-person action saving as many souls as game that finds Rayman and the gang be- Video Games possible. ing sucked into mysterious paintings. February 16—February 22 Tales of Symphonia Note: Entertainment Software Ratings Chronicles (Namco Ban- Board (ESRB) ratings for video games are: E Donkey Kong Country: Tropical dai, PS3: $39.99, Rated: (Everyone), E10+ (Everyone 10+), T (Teen), Freeze (Nintendo, WiiU: $49.99, Rated: RP). This collection of M (Mature), and RP (Rating Pending). E). In this sequel to the rebooted Donkey anime-style cel-shaded Some titles are not rated until just prior to Kong Country franchise of third-person third-person role-play- release date. side-scrolling platformers, Dixie Kong ing games includes re- and Cranky Kong join the adventure mastered versions of both 2004’s Tales Available Now on a mission to reclaim Donkey Kong of Symphonia (originally released for the Island. Nintendo GameCube), and the 2008 Zoo Tycoon (Microsoft, sequel Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the X360/XOne: $49.99, Rat- 2025 (D3, PS3/ New World (originally released for the ed: E). In this remastered X360: $49.99, Rated: M). In this third- Nintendo Wii). edition of the popular person shooter sequel to Earth Defense long-running simulation Force 2017, players will be able to choose Thief (Square Enix, PS3/PS4/X360/ series, players create the among four character classes to repel the XOne: $59.99, Rated: RP). Players will con- zoo of their dreams with most terrifying invasion of giant aliens trol master thief Garrett in this third-per- over 60 animals to adopt, and ravagers the world has ever seen. son stealth adventure game as he steps out care for, and ultimately release into the of the shadows and into the City, where he wild. Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare finds himself caught in an uprising against (EA, X360/XOne: $29.99-$39.99, Rated: the evil Baron. January 26—February 1 E10+). In this comical take on the third- person-shooter , players blast zom- Z: Battle of Z (Namco bies, plants, and all-new characters in a TV on DVD/Blu-ray Bandai, PS3/X360: $59.99, Rated: T). The fully three-dimensional world. Dragon Ball Z cast returns in this third- Available Now person featuring a new Ragnarok Odyssey ACE (XSEED, PS3: character—the most powerful form of $39.99, Rated: RP). In this expanded ver- Bat Masterson: Season Goku (Super Saiyan God). sion of the popular third-person action 3 (TGG, DVD: 4 discs, giant-hunting game originally released $24.98). This 1960-61 Fable Anniversary (Microsoft, X360: on the PlayStation Vita, players battle third and final season of $39.99, Rated: RP). In this modern remas- through an original world based on Norse the Western series star- tering of the classic bestselling Xbox game mythology. ring Gene Barry, based Fable, players once again revisit the world on the life of the titular of Albion to embark on a third-person February 23—March 1 lawman gambler, features role-playing quest to avenge the village a guest spot by Lon Chaney Jr. of Oakvale. Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 (Kon- ami, PS3/X360: $59.99, Rated: M). Players Burning Love: Season 1 (Paramount, Tomb Raider: Defini- will once again control Gabriel Belmont in DVD: $16.99). Nominated for an Emmy, tive Edition (Square Enix, this third-person action-adventure sequel this 2012 first season of the reality romance PS4/XOne: $59.99, Rated: that sees the return of Dracula, weakened parody stars Ken Marino, Michael Ian M). Remastered for next- and yearning for release from his eternal Black, and Abigail Spencer. gen consoles PlayStation bonds. 4 and Xbox One, this ac- Celebrity Billiards with Minnesota claimed third-person ori- The LEGO Movie Vid- Fats (VCI, DVD: $19.99). In-character pro gin story of action heroine eogame (Warner, PS3/ billiards player Rudolf “Minnesota Fats” Lara Croft features a blend of survival, PS4/WiiU/X360/XOne: Wanderone Jr. goes up against celebrities stealth, exploration, and melee and ranged $49.99, Rated: RP). In this in this compilation from the 1967-1971 combat gameplay as Croft unravels the dark new third-person LEGO game show series that features guests history of a forgotten island. action game, players step Groucho Marx, Milton Berle, and the into the shoes of Emmet, Smothers Brothers. February 9—February 15 an ordinary, rules-fol- lowing, perfectly average citizen who is Doc Martin: Series 6 (Acorn, DVD: 2 Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy mistakenly identified as a most extraordi- discs, $39.99). Starring Martin Clunes as XIII (Square Enix, PS3/X360: $59.99, nary person who holds the key to saving the titular English doctor, this 2013 sixth Rated: T). In this third and last chapter the world. series features a wedding between the

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Family Guy, Volume Twelve (Fox, DVD: Wolfblood: Season One (Cinedigm, of Lies: The Sec- 3 discs, $39.98). Creator and star Seth Mac- DVD: 2 discs, $19.99). Produced by the ond Season (Paramount, Farlane’s degenerate Griffin family is back BBC and aired on the Disney Channel, DVD: 2 discs, $45.98). in this 12th volume that includes the 11th this 2012 first season of the fantasy series Starring Don Cheadle season’s 200th episode “Yug Ylimaf.” follows a 14-year-old (Aimee Kelly) whose in a Golden Globe-win- family turns into wolves. ning role as a lucrative Gator Boys: Season 2 (Gaiam, DVD: management consultant, $14.95). Florida-based alligator trappers January 7 this 2013 second season Paul Bedard and Jimmy Riffle are back in of the Showtime-aired comedy series also this 2013 sophomore season of the Animal Archer: The Complete Season Four features Kristen Bell and Ben Schwartz. Planet-aired series. (Fox, DVD: 2 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $39.98). Superlative spy Sterling Archer Enterprise: Season Three Justified: The Com- (voiced by H. Jon Benjamin) and the agents (Paramount, Blu-ray: 6 discs, $129.99). plete Fourth Season of ISIS are back in this 2013 fourth season This 2003-04 penultimate third season of (Sony, DVD: 3 discs, of the FX-aired animated action series. the Emmy-winning sci-fi spin-off is newly $55.99; Blu-ray: 3 discs, available on high-definition Blu-ray. $65.99). Starring Timothy Barney Miller: The Complete Fourth Olyphant as Deputy U.S. Season (Shout! Factory, DVD: 3 discs, (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, Marshal Raylan Givens, $24.99). Hal Linden stars as the titular $34.99). Revolving around the mysterious this 2013 fourth season police captain in this 1977-78 fourth sea- disappearance of a pregnant 12-year-old, of the FX-aired action-crime series also son set from the Golden Globe-winning this -set 2013 seven-episode features Walton Goggins and Natalie Zea. sitcom, featuring guest appearances by miniseries stars , David and Ed Koch. Wenham, and . : The Complete First Season (Warner, Blu-ray: 4 discs, $40.99). Being Human: The January 14 A celebrity psychic uses his skills to bring Complete Third Sea- killers to justice in this 2008-09 debut son (, Hazel: The Complete Final Season season of the drama starring , DVD: 4 discs, $39.98; Blu- (Shout! Factory, DVD: 4 discs, $34.95). Robin Tunney, and Amanda Righetti, newly ray: 4 discs, $49.98). A Based on Ted Key’s Saturday Evening Post available on high-definition Blu-ray. trio of twentysomething comic strip, stars as the titu- roommates—a vampire lar wisecracking housekeeper in this 1965- Mystery Science Theater 3000: 25th (Sam Witwer), a ghost 66 fifth and final season of the Golden Anniversary Edition (Shout! Factory, (Meaghan Rath), and a werewolf (Sam Globe-nominated comedy series. DVD: 5 discs, $64.99). This compilation Huntington)—try to maintain normal lives from the long-running movie-riffing series in Boston in this 2013 third season of the Joanna Lumley’s Greek Odyssey includes four never-before-seen episodes as Syfy-aired American reboot of the British (Athena, DVD: 2 discs, $39.99). Aired on well as the three-part documentary Return supernatural series. public television, this three-hour series to Eden Prairie: 25 Years of Mystery Science follows host Joanna Lumley as she explores Theater 3000. Copper: Season Two (BBC, DVD: 3 popular locales in Greece, including the discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 discs, $59.98). Parthenon, Delphi, the Gates of Hades, Naked City: The Com- Detective Kevin Corcoran (Tom Weston- Mount Olympus, and the birthplace of the plete Series (Image, DVD: Jones) is hard-pressed to maintain order in Olympic Games. 29 discs, $179.98). Featur- 1860s Five Points NYC in this 2013 second ing a bevy of guest stars— and final season of the Emmy-nominated Last of the Summer including , BBC America series. Wine: Vintage 2001 , (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, Diane Ladd, and George Duck Dynasty: Season 4 (Lionsgate, $34.98). Chronicling the C. Scott—this collection DVD: 2 discs, $19.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, escapades of a mischie- includes the complete 1958-63 138-episode $19.99). This 2013 fourth season of the vous elderly trio (Peter Emmy-winning police drama series. A&E reality series following the Robert- Sallis, Frank Thornton, son bayou-based clan features a surprise Keith Clifford), this The Promise (BFS, DVD: 2 discs, wedding bash and an attempt to make compilation from Roy Clarke’s long- $34.98). Starring Christian Cooke, Claire duck jerky. running comedy series includes the 22nd Foy, and Perdita Weeks, this four-part season special “Potts in Pole 2010 BAFTA-nominated miniseries depicts The Following: The Position.” the parallel romances of a British teen’s in Complete First Season Israel and her grandfather’s in Palestine (Warner, DVD: 4 discs, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis: Sea- during WWII. $39.98; Blu-ray/DVD son Two (Shout! Factory, DVD: 5 discs, Combo: 7 discs, $49.99). $29.95). Starring Dwayne Hickman as Snapped—The Killer Collection: The , Natalie date-happy teen Dobie, with Bob Denver Complete Sixth Season (Timeless, DVD: Zea, and James Purefoy as sidekick Maynard, this compilation 3 discs, $24.99). This 2007-08 sixth sea- star in this 2013 first from the 1960-61 sophomore season of

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 12 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 More Documentaries to Love from Alexander Street Press

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Running for Jim Running for Jim is the story of Jim Tracy, the deeply dedicated, tough-loving high school running coach who has been diagnosed with fatal Lou Gehrig’s disease. Jim’s story first came to international attention in 2010 when one of his runners “hit the wall” and collapsed several meters from the finish line during a race. With a record-breaking state championship at stake, the athlete crawled across the finish line, securing the record-breaking championship for her team and ailing coach. For the previous 17 years, despite being at times penniless and homeless, Jim committed his time and energy to training teens to run. Now, as Jim faces the challenge of his life battling ALS, he personifies the strength and fortitude he unequivocally demands of his athletes.

The Latino List: Volumes I and II This two-film set presents a unique glimpse into the vibrant and burgeoning culture of Hispanic America through a series of highly personal video portraits of Latinos who have richly contributed to the fabric of contemporary society. The films capture Hispanic heritage with 30 extraordinary interviews, including Victor Cruz, Gloria Estefan, America Ferrera, Jose Hernandez, John Leguizamo, Eva Longoria, George Lopez, Senator Bob Menendez, Pitbull, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Sonia Sotomayor, and Christy Turlington.

Best Kept Secret: Aging Out with Autism At JFK High School, located in a run-down area in Newark, New Jersey, Janet Mino has taught her class of young men with autism for four years. When they all graduate, they will leave the security of the public school system forever. Best Kept Secret follows Ms. Mino and her students over the year and a half before graduation. The clock is ticking to find them a place in the adult world—a job or rare placement in a recreational center—so they don’t end up where their predecessors have, sitting at home, institutionalized, or on the streets.

Out of Print Every aspect of the written word is changing—from publishing to writing and selling to reading. If books are the foundation of civilization, how does that change the world of ideas? And how does it change us? Narrated by and featuring an array of literature’s top names, Out of Print tackles the questions confronting today’s word industry and shows that much more is at stake than how quickly we can access the latest byte.

Explore these and thousands more films in every discipline at www.academicvideostore.com the romantic comedy series includes guest eight-episode 2012 second season of the an ex-cop turned insurance company appearances by Jack Albertson, Jo Anne Discovery Channel-aired series looks at detective, this 1997 first series of the Brit- Worley, and Thelonious Monk. planets, weather, energy, magnetism, orbits, ish drama includes the two-part episodes comets, and more. “Double Dutch,” “Dangerous Bends,” and Top Gear: The Complete Season 20 “Siege.” (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, $18.98). This 2013 NYPD Blue: Season 05 (Shout! Factory, 20th season of the popular British auto DVD: 6 discs, $34.99). This 1997-98 fifth Family Matters: The appreciation series hosted by Jeremy season of the Big Apple-set Golden Globe Complete Fourth Sea- Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James and Emmy-winning crime-drama series son (Warner, DVD: 3 May features a race against an America’s from creator stars Dennis discs, $29.99). Clumsy Cup yacht in New Zealand and supercar Franz, , Nicholas Turturro, and next-door neighbor Steve speeding across . Kim Delaney. Urkel (Jaleel White) irri- tates the Winslow family The Universe in 3D: A The Returned: The in this 1992-93 fourth Whole New Dimension Complete First Season season that features guest stars including (A&E, Blu-ray: $19.99). (Music Box, DVD: 4 discs, T.K. Carter, Dave Koz, and Naya Rivera. This latest addition to $29.95, Blu-ray: 4 discs, the History Channel- $34.95). Nominated for : The Complete aired series includes an International Emmy, Series (Paramount, DVD: 3 discs, $28.99). three new high-defini- this 2012 French-language Erin Moran and reprise their tion 3D episodes: “Crash series follows the turmoil titular roles in this short-lived Landing on Mars,” “Worst Days on Planet in a small village that is rocked after people 1982-83 sitcom spin-off that also features Earth,” and “God and the Universe.” thought to have died return back home. and Ellen Travolta.

January 21 January 28 Laverne & Shirley: The Seventh Sea- son (Paramount, DVD: 3 discs, $39.99). Bounty Hunters: The Complete First The Hour: Complete This penultimate 1981-82 seventh season Season (Entertainment One, DVD: 2 Collection (Acorn, DVD: 4 discs, $59.99). starring and Wil- discs, $24.98). Aired on CMT (Country Featuring adaptations of stories by Dame liams as Burbank single ladies features Music Television), this 2013 first season Agatha Christie, this 10-episode 1982 PBS guest appearances by Richard Moll, of the animated crime comedy series Mystery!-aired series stars John Nettles, Charles Grodin, and . features the voices of Jeff Amanda Redman, and Rupert Everett. Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, Larry the Cable The White Queen (Anchor Bay, DVD: Guy, and Lisa Lampanelli. Downton Abbey: Sea- 3 discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 discs, $59.99). son 4 (PBS, DVD: 3 discs, Featuring 10 episodes, this 2013 Bullet in the Face (Shout! Factory, $49.99; Blu-ray: 3 discs, Original miniseries stars Rebecca Fergu- DVD: $19.99). A sociopathic killer re- $54.99). Created by Acad- son, Max Irons, Amanda Hale, and Janet ceives a face transplant from the cop he emy Award-winner Julian McTeer. murdered and must take over his job in Fellowes, this 2013 fourth this 2012 IFC-aired thriller series starring season following the Craw- February 11 Max E. Williams, Eddie Izzard, and Eric ley family and their ser- Roberts. vants stars Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmi- The Americans: The chael, and . Complete First Sea- Comedy Bang Bang! son (Fox, DVD: 4 discs, The Complete First Sea- Treme: The Complete Fourth Season $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 discs, son (Anchor Bay, DVD: (HBO, DVD: 2 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: 2 $59.99). Soviet spies 2 discs, $29.99). Based discs, $49.99). Starring Khandi Alexander, (Keri Russell and Mat- on creator and star Scott Rob Brown, and , this fourth thew Rhys) masquerade Aukerman’s titular pod- and final 2013 season brings to a close the as an American married cast, this 2012 debut sea- Emmy-winning drama series telling the story couple in this 2013 debut season of the son of the sketch comedy of New Orleans residents who rebuild after FX-aired Emmy-nominated crime thriller series includes guest appearances by Zach Hurricane Katrina. series. Galifianakis, , , and “Weird Al” Yankovic. Vera, Set 3 (Acorn, DVD: 4 discs, $59.99). Dallas: The Complete Second Season Based on the mysteries by Ann Cleeves, this (Warner, DVD: 4 discs, $39.99). Set after Counting Cars: Season 2, Volume 2 third set starring as tousled the suspicious death of J.R. Ewing (the (A&E, DVD: 2 discs, $14.98). Featuring Las Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope late ), this 2013 sophomore Vegas chopper and hot rod shop owner includes the 2013 episodes “Castles in the season of the re-boot of the classic night- Danny Koker and his crew, this compi- Air,” “Poster Child,” “Young Gods,” and time soap stars Josh Henderson, Jesse lation includes episodes from the 2013 “Prodigal Son.” Metcalfe, Jordana Brewster, , sophomore season of the auto-themed, and Gray. History-aired, Pawn Stars spin-off series. February 4 The Mind of a Chef: Season 2 (PBS, How the Universe Works: Season The Broker’s Man, Series 1 (Acorn, DVD: DVD: $24.99). Narrated by executive 2 (Gaiam, DVD: 2 discs, $29.95). This 2 discs, $39.99). Starring Kevin Whately as producer Anthony Bourdain, this 2013

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 14 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014

second season of the PBS-aired culinary agent Steve Austin in this 1977-78 fifth and career of magician-cardsharp/actor/ series profiles Southern food aficionado final season, which includes guest appear- author Ricky Jay and features archival Chef Sean Brock. ances by Suzanne Somers, Eric Braeden, and footage or reminiscences of Slydini, Bibi Besch. Francis Carlyle, Charlie Miller, Dai : The Com- Vernon, and playwright-filmmaker plete Second Season February 25 David Mamet. Bonus features include (Shout! Factory, DVD: never-before-seen performance foot- 3 discs, $29.95). Star- Legit: The Complete First Season (Fox, age, clips of Jay colleagues (includ- ring as a DVD: 2 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $39.99). ing Steve Martin), and a New Yorker New York author who An Aussie-born standup comic (Jim Jefferies) profile of Jay. Also new to home video relocates to run a small struggles for success in both his professional are Drew: The Man Behind the Poster Vermont inn, this 1983- and personal lives in this 2013 first season (VL-7/13 HHH) and Greenwich Village: 84 sophomore season of the FX comedy series. Music That Defined a Generation (VL- from the Golden Globe and Emmy- 9/13 HHH). nominated series also stars Mary Frann The Middle: Season and Duffy. 4 (Warner, DVD: 3 discs, Hava Nagila: The $44.98). Patricia Heaton Movie (Docurama, Sherlock: Season Three (BBC, DVD: and Neil Flynn star as DVD: $29.95). Film- 2 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $39.98). small-town Indiana heads maker Roberta Gross- and Martin Free- of the Heck family in this man uses “Hava Nag- man star as famous super sleuth Sherlock 2012-13 fourth season set ila” and its various Holmes and Dr. Watson in this 2014 third from the Emmy-nominated iterations to portray season of the BAFTA and Peabody Award- comedy series. the Jewish-assimila- winning mystery series, which includes tion experience in this “The Empty Hearse,” “The Sign of Three,” Looking Ahead entertaining film VL( -5/13 HHH)—new and “His Last Vow.” to home video—that includes inter- Slated for March is the debut season of views with celebrities Leonard Nimoy, February 18 Devious Maids, the second season of Veep, Connie Francis, and Harry Belafonte, the sixth season of Californication, and the as well as various rabbis, rebbes, and Game of Thrones: complete series of Hill Street Blues. authors. Bonus features include ex- The Complete Third tended interviews, historical footage, Season (HBO, DVD: 5 and musical clips. discs, $59.99; Blu-ray: 7 Re-priced or New to DVD/Blu-ray discs, $79.98). Based on Le Joli Mai (Icarus, DVD: 2 discs, George R.R. Martin’s A $34.98). Newly restored and making its Song of Ice and Fire epic (PBS, DVD debut, filmmakers novel saga, this 2013 DVD: $19.99). This new and Pierre Lhomme’s 1963 documentary third season of the compilation highlighting portrait of the City of Light—filmed just Emmy, BAFTA, and Golden Globe-win- the life of America’s 16th after the ceasefire of the French colonial ning fantasy adventure series stars Peter president includes the war in —features narration by Dinklage, Lena Headey, and Emilia 2009 American Experience . Bonus features include Clarke. documentary The Assassi- deleted scenes, bonus shorts, and a 24- nation of Abraham Lincoln, page booklet. Gentle Ben: Season Two (Paramount, the 24-page biography DVD: 4 discs, $29.99). Set in the swamps Abraham Lincoln: President and Icon, and a Nelson Mandela: of the Florida Everglades, this 1968-69 set of exclusive memorabilia reproduced One Man ( Ja n s on, second and final season based on Walt from original materials at Washington DVD: $24.95). Produced Morey’s children’s novel about a boy’s DC’s National Archives and Records Ad- in 2009, this hour-long friendship with a tame bear stars Den- ministration. Also newly available at the documentary explores nis Weaver, Beth Brickell, and Clint same price is Gettysburg and the Civil War, the career of tireless Howard. which includes Gettysburg: The Boys in Blue anti-apartheid activist & Gray (VL-11/02 HHH1/2), as well as a 24- and Nobel Peace Prize Nurse Jackie: Season Five (Lionsgate, page book, memorabilia, and a selection winner Nelson Mandela (1918-2013). DVD: 3 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, of battle maps. $39.98). Picking up with the titular drug- The Search for Robert Johnson addicted ER nurse () getting Deceptive Practice: (Kultur, DVD: $19.99). Director Chris out of rehab early, this 2013 fifth season The Mysteries and Men- Hunt’s 1991 documentary traces the life of the Showtime series introduces Adam tors of Ricky Jay (Kino of legendary bluesman Robert Johnson, Ferrara as love interest police officer Frank Lorber, DVD: $29.95). including his rumored supernatural Verelli. Newly available on home pact with the devil, tangled family ties, video, filmmakers Mol- and grisly murder. Also newly available The Six Million Dollar Man: Season ly Bernstein and Alan are Pablo Neruda, The Real Rembrandt, 5 (Universal, DVD: 6 discs, $39.98). Lee Edelstein’s documentary and The Victorian Nude: The Empire of Majors is back as bionic-body intelligence profile (VL-7/13 HHH1/2) focuses on the the Nude (VL-11/03 HHH)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 16 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 VL_Ad_0114_VisionVideo 11/19/13 8:00 AM Page 1

Bringing Joshua Home The Pink Room Thank God for Football! In late December, 2012, Russian President The Pink Room tells the story of Mien and other Explore the heritage of the English Premier Vladimir Putin signed a bill banning all American young girls who have been victimized in the League (soccer). Football historian Peter Lupson adoptions of Russian children. Bringing Joshua unspeakably dark world of child sex slavery in tells the story of twelve of these clubs and the Home tells the personal story of one family who Cambodia. But this is not just a story about the people who have made an exceptional successfully adopted a Russian child. Arthur and problem. The Pink Room is an inspiring story of contribution to the beautiful game. In this 11- Hanna Rasco share the challenges, joys, and restoration as ordinary people become heroes, part documentary series he takes us to the places drama of adopting their baby boy from Moscow lives are mended, and Cambodians rise up to take where the clubs began over a century ago, and and introducing him into their family. If you've back their country. In a world where it is estimated also visits the stadiums they occupy today. Thank ever wondered what it is like to adopt that over one million children are held captive and God for Football! presents the challenging and internationally, this film gives an inside, real-life sexually abused, a flower blooms in the heart of uplifting stories of some remarkable individuals look into the process from start to finish. Cambodia. Documentary, 57 minutes. who were moved to help those rejected by Documentary, 25 minutes. DVD - #501543D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01543 9 society. Documentary, 157 minutes. DVD - #501513D, $14.99, UPC 7 27985 01513 2 DVD - #501497D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01497 5

With God on Our Side About Miracles Heaven in Sight: With God On Our Side takes a hard look at the About Miracles features four dramatic, true stories The Peter Jackson Story theology and politics of Christian Zionism, which about modern day miracles. Told by the actual Peter Jackson is an accomplished British pianist teaches that because the Jews are God’s chosen people involved and featuring gripping reenactments, who has been blind since the age of two. In this people, Israeli government policies should not be these stories will amaze you. A man is robbed, then live performance recorded before an audience in questioned, even when these policies are unjust. shot in the head at point-blank range and left for Fraserburgh, , Peter plays favorite hymns Critics of Christian Zionism argue that this flawed dead. A woman hears a voice telling her to go to the as well as classical and jazz pieces. He also shares ideology has led to ethnic discrimination and ER even though she has no physical symptoms. A his amazing story of faith and perseverance, great suffering among the Palestinian people. Is student has just one week to raise thousands of revealing how his gift of spiritual sight has enabled there an alternative way to support the people of dollars for a mission trip. A baby is injured in a car him to overcome the limitations of his handicap Israel, a way that doesn’t favor one people group accident and gradually loses his sight while his and share a message of peace and hope with the over another but instead promotes peace, security, parents pray for healing. About Miracles suggests world. Documentary, 100 minutes. and reconciliation? Documentary, 82 minutes. that the only logical explanation is God. DVD - #501518D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01518 7 DVD - #501547D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01547 7 Documentary, 59 minutes. DVD - #501546D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01546 0

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empowerment and spiritualism wrapped in wintry , when Den- This section features reviews of current and a Victorian setting. In 1874 , aristo- nis Girard (Paul Giamatti) classic studio, independent, and foreign feature cratic Margaret Prior (Anna Madeley) seeks is released after spending relief from her inner heartaches—including four years in prison for rob- films. Each review includes pricing information, the death of her beloved father—by serving bery. Trudging home, he as well as running time, rating, subtitling infor- as a “Lady Visitor” to the Millbank women’s discovers that his ex-wife, mation, and street dates for yet-to-be-released prison. Although she envisions herself as Therese (), titles. Most titles reviewed here are widely a guiding figure to the inmates, her regal has banned him from the available through most distributors. bearing and life experiences are far removed house because she’s told their young daughter from the women she visits. Margaret quickly Michi that he died of cancer. Therese has finds herself strangely attracted to the mys- taken up with Dennis’s amiable ex-partner/ HHHH= Excellent terious Selina Dawes (Zoe Tapper), who was buddy Rene (Paul Rudd), who’s divorcing HHH= Good charged in the death of a at a his wife to marry Therese. Frantic and pen- séance that she conducted. Even though the niless Dennis guilt-trips Rene into allowing HH= Fair court branded her a fraud, the other inmates him to team up to sell Christmas trees at H= Poor believe that Selina has paranormal powers. huge mark-up in , despite a parole Soon, Margaret is haunted by eerie circum- officer’s admonition not to leave Canada. stances, including the mysterious appearance Former thieves—for whom lying, cheating, of flowers and a lock of Selina’s hair in her and stealing is a way of life—the pair are bedroom. While the story ultimately drifts determined to go straight. Taking time out Current Films into an unsatisfying conclusion, this is a from persistent arguments about which of the beautifully detailed production, and director men really deserves Therese, the morose and A.C.O.D. HH Tim Fywell taps into the kinetic chemistry misanthropic Dennis befriends Olga (Sally Paramount, 88 min., R, DVD: between Madeley and Tapper, which helps Hawkins), a quirky Russian dentist assistant $29.98, Blu-ray: $39.99, Jan. compensate for the wobbly plotting. A strong who is housesitting at her employer’s brown- 14 optional purchase. (P. Hall) stone. Although plagued with arthritis, Olga is Writer-director Stu Zi- an accomplished pianist, which is convenient cherman’s debut is basi- Ain’t Them Bodies Saints since Dennis is determined to acquire a piano cally a feature-length sitcom HH for Michi. Syrupy, predictable, and contrived, made slightly smarter and All Is Bright clearly evokes the desperation of MPI, 96 min., R, DVD: $24.98, hard economic times—particularly poignant sharper than most network fare thanks to Blu-ray: $29.98 a strong cast. The title is an acronym for around the holiday season—but this is a Marked by ostentatiously Adult Children of Divorce, which includes wistful, joyless, and ultimately forgettable artsy visuals, cruelly delib- restaurateur Carter (Adam Scott)—the son Christmas story. Optional. (S. Granger) erate pacing, and far more of still-warring Hugh (Richard Jenkins) and concern for mood than nar- Melissa (Catherine O’Hara)—who has grown rative coherence, filmmaker David Lowery’s The Angels’ Share up playing family peacemaker although sophomore effort tries to mimic the style of HHH his own relationship with Lauren (Mary later and unfortunately suc- MPI, 101 min., not rated, DVD: Elizabeth Winstead) suggests he has serious $24.98 ceeds. Basically a tale of doomed young love, commitment issues. After his brother, Trey the story opens in small-town Texas, where Ken Loach’s fanciful (Clark Duke), gets engaged, Carter must robbers Bob () and Ruth (Rooney comedy caper movie, set persuade his parents to attend the ceremony Mara) are captured following a shootout in working-class , with their new significant others, leading him at a ramshackle farmhouse, during which Scotland, features a wee to seek advice from his childhood therapist Deputy Wheeler (Ben Foster) is wounded in dash of magical realism. At the center of The (Jane Lynch), who earlier used him as a an exchange of gunfire. Bob takes the rap and Angels’ Share is malt whisky—the title itself subject in her studies of non-adult C.O.D.s. is sent off to prison, while Ruth gives birth derives from the small amount of liquid that Naturally, this leads to emotional crisis as to Bob’s daughter and raises her under the naturally evaporates over time in the barrel both Hugh and Melissa try to manipulate watchful, caring eyes of the recovered cop cask. Caught in a hopelessly destructive matters to their advantage. The film intends and an elderly storeowner (). cycle of poverty, criminality, and violence, for us to sympathize with Carter, but the After a few years, Bob breaks out and makes Robbie (Paul Brannigan) is a local hoodlum character’s self-centeredness makes that dif- his way back to town, but three men show with a straitlaced girlfriend (Siobhan Reilly), ficult. A.C.O.D. serves up some sporadic fun up gunning for him. Although this much and infant son. After Robbie is spared from in the antics of Jenkins and O’Hara, but most of the tale is relatively clear, Lowery delib- prison and given 300 hours of “community scenes feel arch and overblown, and the big erately leaves many plot points obscure and payback,” his work supervisor (John Hen- finale is utterly contrived. A wan, ultimately unexplained. And while there’s no denying shaw)—who enjoys his nightly tipple—de- unsatisfying dramedy, this is an optional that the filmmaker has true cinematic vision, cides to take him and some other hooligans purchase. (F. Swietek) his unfortunate tendency to opt for self-con- on an outing to a whisky distillery. Here, scious poeticism over clear storytelling results Robbie not only learns about the whisky- AffinityHH 1/2 in a movie that often looks lovely, but doesn’t making process but also discovers that he has BFS, 90 min., not rated, DVD: make much sense. Not a necessary purchase. a connoisseur’s nose for identifying different $22.98 (F. Swietek) varieties—an olfactory skill that catches the This 2008 adaptation of attention of Thaddeus (Roger Allam), a slick Sarah Waters’ titular 1999 All Is Bright HH high-end broker, while also earning the re- novel—broadcast on Brit- Anchor Bay, 107 min., R, DVD: $26.98, Blu-ray: spect of whisky professional Rory McAllister ain’s ITV and featured in a $29.99 (real-life scotch expert Charles Maclean). At number of U.S.-based LGBT Director Phil Morrison’s strangely dark another distillery, the auction date for an film festivals—offers a strange mix of gender comedy opens during late November in extremely rare cask of Malt Mill whiskey is

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 18 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 FIRST RUN FEATURES PRESENTS

BIRTH OF THE THE HAPPY HOUSE LIVING DEAD 80 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 915625D STREET DATE: JANUARY 7 76 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 915809D STREET DATE: JANUARY 7 Their relationship on the rocks, a young In 1968 a young college drop-out named Brooklyn couple heads to a remote bed & George A. Romero directed Night of the breakfast to work things out. But from the Living Dead, a low budget that moment they arrive at the Happy House it’s shocked the world, became an icon of the one disaster after another, and they soon counterculture, and spawned a zombie begin to suspect they’ve wandered into a industry worth billions of dollars. real life horror movie. “This marvelous doc looks at all the ways “Perversely unexpected humor! one low-budget, flesh-eating horror D.W. Young has created a puckishly movie changed the world. It’s full of juicy diverting horror comedy with admirable anecdotes that detail how Romero made poise and sneaky charm. A memorably necessity into the mother of nightmare weird cast make for some amazingly invention. Grade: A.” -Entertainment Weekly agreeable company.” -Film Journal

TO DANCE LIKE A MAN IT’S NOT ME, I SWEAR! 58 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 915823D 110 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 915816D STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 4 STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 4 In this child’s eye view on the desire for When his mother decides to leave for a new professional success in the dance world, life in Greece, 10-year-old hellion Leon is triplets Angel, César and Marcos, age 11, prepared to do anything to kill the pain of it all want the same thing – a role in a major all, from destroying the neighbors’ homes to ballet production at Havana’s celebrated falling in love with his best friend Lea. Grand Theatre. Who will be chosen? From Philippe Falardeau, the Academy Featuring ballet superstar José Carreño, Award nominated director of Monsieur and shot at Cuba’s National Ballet School. Lazhar. “A joy to watch! The boys couldn’t have “A resonant coming-of-age story been better subjects – talented, devoted, with elements of dark humor yet still child-like. It’s such a wonderful and childhood whimsy.” film!” -Dancing Times, London -The Globe and Mail

PEOPLE OF A FEATHER THE SONG WITHIN: 92 minutes, color, SRP: $27.95, FRF 915748D SEDONA STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 25 75 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 354675D Featuring stunning footage from seven STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 4 winters in the Arctic, People of a Feather Meet 16 extraordinary Sedona women takes you through time into the world of whose stories teach, entertain and inspire. the Inuit and their unique relationship with the eider duck. This gorgeous visual investigation is an exploration of the basic belief that wisdom “Lyrical...stunning.” is everywhere. Through stunning cinema- - tography that reveals the breathtaking and “Artful and meditative. The film is a mystical red rocks of Sedona, music that near mystical mix of time-lapse Arctic lifts the spirit, and monologues from women landscapes, marine-life photography, of different lifestyles, this unique film gives and interwoven imagery of present- us an experience that inspires the humanity day and historical Inuit life.” in us all. -The Georgia Straight THE OYLER HOUSE: THE LAST ELVIS RICHARD NEUTRA’S 92 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 915847D DESERT RETREAT STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 25 Most evenings in Buenos Aires, “Elvis” 46 minutes, color, SRP: $24.95, FRF 915830D Gutiérrez is a star – his singing and stage STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 25 presence bring back to life the King of Rock In 1959, a government employee named and Roll in all his glory. By day, though, Richard Oyler, living in the tiny desert Gutiérrez slaves away at a dead-end factory town of Lone Pine, California, asked job and endures the scorn of his ex-wife; world-famous modern architect Richard only his young daughter, Lisa Marie, brings Neutra to design his modest family home. any joy outside of his Elvis tribute gigs. To Oyler’s surprise, Neutra agreed. Thus began an unlikely friendship that led to Official SelectiOn the design and construction of an iconic mid-century modern masterpiece. “A knockout, riveting performance! “A most inspiring, moving, and memorable John McInerny is utterly compelling.” film, a must for any architecture lover.” -The Reporter -Daniella On Design

To purchase, please contact John Bione at 800.229.8575 x13 or [email protected] For Non-Theatrical/Institutional PPR, contact Dylan McGinty at 800.229.8575 x19 or [email protected] rapidly approaching—with a million-dollar to vent the anger, bitterness, and frustrations only made tolerable by her occasional trysts payout expected. Naturally, volatile Rob- that have come from a self-destructive life, with her West German lover, who is planning bie and three other ne’er-do-wells head for while struggling in real life to prove her her escape to Denmark—supplying money to the Scottish Highlands, bent on staging an value as a mother. Steen attacks this complex a man who will spirit Barbara to freedom in unlikely heist. A sweet-natured, amusing character with ferocity, commanding the his tiny boat. But those plans are upended film (which won the Jury Prize at the 2012 screen with a forceful energy that is fearless by Barbara’s growing sense of comradeship Cannes Film Festival), this is recommended. in its towering rage and poignantly fragile with Andre, and by the hospitalization of (S. Granger) when it comes to emotional failure. Highly a troubled pregnant girl who has escaped recommended. (P. Hall) from a state work camp. Petzold might have Animals HH1/2 played this material in maudlin fashion, but Kino, 94 min., in English & The Attack HHH1/2 he resists the inclination to sentimentalize Catalan w/English subtitles, Cohen, 95 min., in Arabic & while also still effectively delivering the mes- not rated, DVD: $29.95 Hebrew w/English subtitles, R, sage that humanity survives even in the most Donnie Darko meets Ted DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $34.98 repressive regimes through acts of kindness in Marçal Forés’ surrealistic Addressing Arab/Israeli and self-sacrifice. An insightful and poignant debut filmAnimals , which relations on an intimately film, this is recommended. (F. Swietek) centers on Pol (Oriol Pla), a personal scale, The At- psychologically troubled high school student tack—based on Yasmina : Nothing Can who shares his innermost secrets with Deer- Khadra’s bestselling novel—opens in a Tel Hurt Me HHH hoof, a tattered teddy bear that just happens Aviv hospital where Amin Jaafari (Ali Suli- Magnolia, 111 min., PG-13, to walk and talk—or, at least in Pol’s mind. man), a Palestinian fully assimilated into DVD: $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 This device is used as a means of dramatizing Tel Aviv society, works as a highly respected The story of Memphis Pol’s internal conflicts—particularly regard- surgeon. Someone has detonated a suicide band Big Star, whose influ- ing his sexual identity, which comes to the bomb nearby, but Amin has no idea that his ence surpassed their chart fore when he develops a relationship with beautiful wife, Siham (Reymond Amsellem), success, comes to life in a new student, Ikari (Augustus Prew). The was the bomber until Israeli police inform Drew DeNicola’s sensitive documentary. often tense encounters between Pol, Ikari, him of this terrible truth. At first he can’t Since mercurial singer- Alex Chil- and Deerhoof (at one point Pol even attempts accept it (especially when he’s interrogated ton declined to participate, late producer Jim to rid himself of what Deerhoof represents as a possible accomplice), and later begins Dickinson talks about Chilton’s time in the by “killing” the teddy) are portrayed amidst to investigate the bombing, which killed Box Tops, which he left in 1970, joining up caustic observations from another of Pol’s 19 people (including, of course, his wife). with Andy Hummel, Chris Bell, and Jody , periodic interventions from the boys’ Amin digs deeper for the truth, eventually Stephens to form Big Star, who took their coolly rationalistic teacher (), uncovering the identities of the Palestinian name from a local grocery store. Recording and a swirl of mysterious events, including zealots who recruited Siham to be a terrorist. at Ardent Studios, Big Star secured a label the disappearance of a classmate, and a school This present-day mystery unfolds alongside contract when Ardent became a Stax subsid- party that is interrupted by a menacing flashbacks in which we gradually learn more iary, but sales of their debut, #1 Record, were figure wearing a human-sized bear costume. about Amin and Siham’s marriage, which was disappointing, partly because the band’s Animals doesn’t try to make literal sense seemingly ideal (especially as Amin’s profes- introspective brand of power-pop was out (even the abrupt changes from Catalan to sional stature increased), although Amin of step with . Bell took it so poorly English and back again seem designed to keep is now plagued by doubt and uncertainty, he left to pursue a solo career, which would a viewer at sea), but it is beautifully filmed, forced into a reassessment of the woman he only compound his problems. The remaining with lush widescreen camerawork that casts never really knew. Sad, subtle, and gripping members cut Radio City, which suffered due a dreamlike spell over the proceedings. What from start to finish, this first-rate study of to the collapse of Stax, after which Chilton it lacks in narrative coherence, it makes up love and loss in a tragic situation is highly recorded a final ,Third/Sister Lovers, for in atmospheric richness. A strong optional recommended. (J. Shannon) largely on his own. DeNicola and co-director purchase. (F. Swietek) Olivia Mori proceed to trace Chilton’s sub- Barbara HHH sequent career as a solo artist and producer, Applause HHH1/2 Kino Lorber, 105 min., in followed by the rediscovery of Big Star, which Kino, 83 min., in Danish German w/English subtitles, w/English subtitles, R, DVD: PG-13, DVD: $29.95, Blu-ray: reached a fever pitch in the 1980s as R.E.M., $29.95 $34.95 the Replacements, and other alt-rock acts sang their praises. Initially, Chilton evinced little Danish actress Paprika Filmmaker Christian Pet- interest in revisiting his past, but a one-off Steen is not exactly a house- zold’s Barbara serves up an hold name on this side of intriguing character study gig in the 1990s led to a full-fledged revival, the Atlantic, but she might that lays bare the casual cruelty and utter with and from have been if Martin Pieter Zandvliet’s 2009 emptiness of the East German regime before filling in for Bell and Hummel. drama had received a stronger U.S. theatrical Communism’s collapse in 1989. The title fig- Chilton’s death during filming in 2010 caught release. Steen delivers a devastating perfor- ure (Nina Hoss) is a nurse who has been exiled many by surprise, but he lived long enough mance here as an emotionally disheveled from Berlin for an ideological infraction and to receive the credit he richly deserved for actress trying to pull her life together. Off- sent to work in a remote provincial hospital. creating three of the finest records of the stage, Thea Barfoed (Steen) is struggling with Lodged in a small apartment where the land- 1970s. Serving up a solid musical profile, this acute alcoholism and a disastrous divorce that lady keeps close watch on her (and where she is recommended. (K. Fennessy) resulted in her losing custody of her children. is subject to unannounced, humiliating visits Professionally, she has just been cast in a from stern security agents), Barbara is stand- Big Sur HHH plum role: Martha, in a new production of offish and brusque with her new co-workers, Arc, 100 min., R, DVD: $20.99, Jan. 14 Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Thea winds although head physician Andre shares his Writer-director Michael Polish effectively up using Edward Albee’s bitterly vicious play self-built laboratory with her. Barbara’s life is brings Jack Kerouac’s post-On the Road 1962

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 20 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 autobiographical novel Big Andrew Dice Clay, , Louis The locker-room mean girls cruelly mock her, Sur to celluloid life, fol- C.K., and Bobby Cannavale offer strong sup- tossing tampons and screaming, “Plug it up!” lowing an aging Kerouac port for luminous Blanchett, who masterfully Using her cell-phone to make a video, Chris (Jean-Marc Barr), who at the plays her fluttering, delusional, Chanel-clad Hargensen (Portia Doubleday) posts it on the behest of fellow Beat writer character with exquisite precision. Recom- web. When the gym teacher, Ms. Desjardin Lawrence Ferlinghetti (An- mended. (S. Granger) (Judy Greer), realizes what’s happening, thony Edwards) retreats to Carrie’s classmates are reprimanded. Con- an isolated cabin in north- Captain Phillips flicted Sue Snell (Gabriella Wilde) has regrets, ern California’s Big Sur in HHH1/2 but nasty Chris is defiant, which leads to her order to escape the trappings of fame, not to Sony, 134 min., PG-13, DVD: being suspended—meaning no prom. Smugly mention the increasing inevitability of end- $30.99, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: determined to take revenge against Carrie, ing up a skid-row alcoholic in . $40.99, Jan. 21 Chris has no idea what kind of retaliation While Kerouac’s reclusive existence at Big In April 2009, four im- lies in store for her; along with the onset of Sur initially brings both physical and mental poverished Somali fisher- puberty, Carrie has just become aware of her renewal, it isn’t long before his old demons— men hijacked the Danish telekinetic powers. The scary, albeit campy, alcohol, women, and wanderlust—return to container ship Maersk Alabama, loaded with humor of De Palma’s film has been replaced haunt him. Edwards and Radha Mitchell (as 2,400 tons of commercial cargo and 200 tons by an insidiously pervasive sadness. Gory and Carolyn Cassady) don’t bring as much heft of food aid, in the Indian Ocean off the Horn gruesome, Carrie is a downer of a bloodbath to their parts as they should, but the rest of of Africa. The vessel’s 53-year-old American that feels far too evocative of today’s real-life Kerouac’s rambunctiously brainy entourage, Captain, Richard Phillips (), was violence. Optional. (S. Granger) including Josh Lucas as bear-like romantic taken hostage by the ransom-demanding Neal Cassady, are believably rounded out. pirate leader, Muse (Barkhad Abdi), igniting Clear History HHH Drawing upon Kerouac’s own stream-of- a dramatic five-day siege involving a U.S. HBO, 100 min., TV-MA, DVD: consciousness lines from the novel, Polish destroyer, Navy SEAL , and FBI ne- $19.98, Blu-ray: $24.99 is sometimes over-reliant on voiceover—dis- gotiators. Phillips’ prescient wife (Catherine Enthusiasm for Clear His- tracting from the film’s visual strengths—but Keener) was concerned about his safety as he tory will depend on one’s Big Sur ultimately seems to capture Kerouac’s left their Vermont home for Salahah, Oman, enthusiasm for writer-star slowly fragmenting mental state at the time in order to take command of the enormous , who is at his as the doomed author comes to realize that vessel bound for Mombasa, Kenya. Worried Curb-iest here as Nathan he is trapped inside his own celebrity. Recom- about a possible attack, Phillips held a secu- Flomm, once a wild-maned marketing maven mended. (M. Sandlin) rity drill as they neared the Somali Basin, and (“I was the brains behind Edible Arrange- was initially able to take evasive maneuvers ments”) but who blew his chance at a billion Blue Jasmine HHH when the raiders first approached in small dollar payday by renouncing the decision to Sony, 98 min., PG-13, DVD: wooden skiffs. But the next day, the unarmed name a new electric car “Howard” and selling $30.99, Blu-ray: $35.99, Jan. ship was boarded, and Phillips ordered his back his stock in the start-up company. Of 21 well-trained crew to hide in the engine room. course, the Howard became a phenomenal Cate Blanchett delivers “Relax,” says machine-gun toting Muse. “No success. Nathan, now clean-shaven, lives un- an Oscar-worthy perfor- Al Qaeda here. Just business.” Despite being der a new name—Rolly DeVore—in Martha’s mance in ’s abducted, bound, and trapped in a metal Vineyard, where his former boss (Jon Hamm) compassionate, yet chilling lifeboat, the resourceful and resilient Phillips and the latter’s wife (Kate Hudson) now set character study centered is determined to outmaneuver Muse and his up housekeeping, leading Nathan/Rolly to on the disgraced, discarded wife of a Bernie squabbling, bedraggled cohorts. Inspired swear revenge. Clear History would have been Madoff-like fraud. For many years, WASP-y, by Phillips’ memoir, A Captain’s Duty, film- more aptly titled Sour Grapes, which happens elegant Jasmine (Blanchett) has been the maker Paul Greengrass’s edge-of-your-seat to be the title of David’s ill-fated trophy wife of Hal (Alec Baldwin), a con- action thriller is anchored by Hanks’ subtly directorial debut, although directing duties niving, mega-rich financier. nuanced, Oscar-caliber performance. Highly here go to . As with Curb Your Having changed her name from the more recommended. (S. Granger) Enthusiasm, David’s script (more of an out- prosaic Jeanette years ago, she’s a svelte, line) gives the A-list ensemble cast (including self-absorbed, snobbish Upper East Side so- Carrie HH a nicer but no less profane Danny McBride, cialite, living on Park Avenue and spending MGM, 100 min., R, DVD: channeling Beetlejuice, an weekends in the Hamptons. But her lavish $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: uncredited , J.B. Smoove, and lifestyle falls apart when she discovers that $39.99, Jan. 14 ) room to improvise and take the Hal is not only dishonest but also a habitual While Stephen King’s usual digressions to explore whether an apol- philanderer. After he’s sent to prison and the 1974 novel and Brian De ogy needs to be sincere, why Rolly doesn’t government repossesses everything, Jasmine Palma’s 1976 film are both respond to birthday e-mails, and a prurient packs her monogrammed Vuitton bags and undisputed horror classics, running joke concerning, of all things, the relocates to San Francisco. Moving in with director Kimberly Peirce band Chicago. For those who dearly miss her adopted sister ()—a hard- brings a contemporary dimension to her re- Curb, this is the next best thing to ; working grocery store clerk/single mother make of this coming-of-age story, playing on although others for whom a little David goes with two young sons—unhinged Jasmine the fact that teenage bullying has become a a long way are advised to steer clear. Recom- self-medicates with vodka and tranquilizers. social-media-inflamed crisis. Quivering, vul- mended. (D. Liebenson) Financially forced into taking a “menial” job nerable Carrie White (Chloë Grace Moretz) as a dentist’s receptionist, humbled-yet-con- is a naïve, troubled high school outcast so Closed Circuit HHH flicted Jasmine yearns to become someone overzealously sheltered by her religious fa- Universal, 96 min., R, DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD “substantial” again, a possibility that emerges natic mother, Margaret (), that Combo: $34.98, Jan. 7 when she meets a wealthy widower/diplomat when her first menstrual period arrives after The basis for this intriguing (Peter Sarsgaard) with political aspirations. gym class, Carrie is terrified that she’s dying. lies in a quirky British law that requires a

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 21 VIDEO LIBRARIAN defendant in high-profile title, filmmaker Richard completely work, this is still one of film- cases to have two lawyers Rowley’s Dirty Wars takes an maker To’s stronger efforts. Recommended. who are forbidden to share accusing look at America’s (K. Fennessy) classified information with offensive in the so-called one another. The story be- War on Terror. While re- Enough Said HHH gins with a horrific truck ex- porting in Afghanistan, Fox, 93 min., PG-13, DVD: plosion—filmed by multiple Scahill learned firsthand $29.98, Blu-ray: $39.99, Jan. surveillance cameras—that that a black-ops strike force 14 obliterates London’s Bor- called the Joint Special Operations Command Writer-director Nicole ough Market. Soon after, authorities arrest (JSOC) was carrying out preemptive bomb Holofcener examines the Farroukh Erdogan (Denis Moschitto), who attacks and assassinations on suspected pitfalls of middle-age ro- is accused of masterminding the attack. In targets and sympathizers. One such mance as vulnerable and order to try his case, the court must consider victim—almost certainly innocent—was an emotionally conflicted single parents cope evidence that is deemed so sensitive by MI5 Afghan police official, and his family; in a with empty nests in this dramatic comedy, that even the defendant is not permitted Catch-22-like detail, a mystery officer tries starring the late . Energetic to hear or read it. The accused is entitled to to placate grieving clan members with the Eva (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) is a massage thera- two separate lawyers: one to defend him in sacrifice of a sheep. Similar loose-cannon pist who totes her bulky table around West public court and the other to serve as his JSOC rampages in Yemen and Somalia only L.A., making house calls. Now divorced, she’s Special Advocate in closed hearings. But the resulted in turning locals against the United sad that her beloved teenage daughter (Tracey counselors cannot communicate with one States. In what Scahill considers a policy Fairaway) is departing for Sarah Lawrence another. When Erdogan’s barrister commits point-of-no-return, JSOC added to its hit list College. At a cocktail party, Eva meets two suicide, Martin Rose (Eric Bana) is assigned a U.S. citizen, Anwar al-Awaki, described as pivotal people: Marianne (), to defend the alleged bomber. Problem is: a Muslim cleric who was once supportive of a cool, chic, yet condescending poet, and Rose previously had an affair with Claudia the Bush agenda, but turned violently against Albert (Gandolfini), an easygoing, down- Simmons-Howe (), who is serv- America after the invasion of Iraq. While to-earth divorced father whose daughter ing as Special Advocate. Instead of removing JSOC and its commander, Admiral William (Eve Hewson) is heading to Manhattan to themselves on ethical grounds, both are McRaven (portrayed as quite a fiend here), study fashion design. Eva soon becomes eager to investigate and win this case, even stepped from the shadows to widespread ap- Marianne’s confidante, dutifully listening as government forces are busily pursuing a proval after the killing of Osama bin Laden, to her bitter litany of complaints about her speedy conviction. Tautly directed by John Scahill warns that this type of war—without former husband. She also becomes Albert’s Crowley, this timely conspiracy thriller deftly borders or rules of engagement—is an unwin- girlfriend—before realizing that Marianne explores the potential for corruption lying at nable one. While Dirty Wars doesn’t really is Albert’s ex-wife. A subplot intertwines the intersection of ubiquitous technological address the fact that the enemy isn’t exactly Eva’s daughter’s confused best friend (Tavi surveillance and the sanctioned invasion of playing by the Geneva Convention rules Gevinson) with Eva’s own BFF (), privacy. Recommended. (S. Granger) either, the issues that Scahill raises cannot a shallow, self-absorbed therapist struggling be lightly dismissed. Sure to spark discussion, with personal issues. Gandolfini delivers a Curse of H1/2 this is highly recommended. (C. Cassady) sympathetic, self-deprecating performance Universal, 95 min., R, DVD: that nicely captures the sensitive nuances $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: HHH of a man yearning for someone he can love. $34.98 Drug War Well Go USA, 107 min., in Louis-Dreyfus, by contrast, too often falls The horror franchise Chinese w/English subtitles, R, back on facial grimaces and sitcom timing. about a grotesque doll pos- DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 Still, overall, Enough Said delivers insightful, sessed by the spirit of a se- In Johnnie To’s tense wryly amusing social commentary on the rial killer—launched with and stylish Drug War, set subject of contemporary suburban anxiety. 1988’s Child’s Play—is back with this di- in mainland China, drug Recommended. (S. Granger) rect-to-home-video sixth installment. Don dealers do whatever it takes Mancini, writer of all the Chucky movies and to distribute product, while The Falls: Testament of director of the last two, moderates the spoof cops do the same to bring them down. After factor of recent entries in favor of a more matinee-idol-handsome meth manufacturer Love HHH traditional approach. Of course, there’s still Timmy Choi (Louis Koo) crashes his car, Breaking Glass, 120 min., not rated, DVD: $24.99 a strong undercurrent of mordant humor stone-faced Captain Zhang (Sun Honglei) and at work, but the plot is pure simpleminded his officers round up the dealer’s mules, but Jon Garcia’s sequel to his slasher, as a family is methodically massacred have no idea who the kingpin is behind the touching and entertaining in a dark old house one stormy night—albeit cartel. Knowing that a death sentence is in 2012 drama The Falls revisits by a nasty, wise-cracking plastic killer. The the wings, Choi turns informer in exchange the two lead characters five years later. R.J. explanation for why these particular victims for lighter treatment, teaming up with Zhang, (Nick Ferrucci) and Chris (Ben Farmer)—who were chosen gives , who has who poses as a fellow drug lord, in order to met as young Mormon missionaries, fell in regularly voiced the demented Chucky, the get the drop on “Uncle Bill.” Zhang burrows love, and dealt with the wrath of their church opportunity to appear in human form in so deeply into his new role that he grows un- and families—have now gone separate ways. flashback. Not surprisingly, the scariest part stable in his impersonation of Choi’s cackling R.J., an editor at a Seattle magazine, is in a of this lame effort to revive a better-left-dead associate, Haha (Zhang even snorts cocaine longstanding relationship with another man, franchise is a postscript that leaves the door to fit in, but becomes violently ill). Although while Chris has not only renounced his gay wide open for further sequels. Not recom- one guy is on the right side of the law, and identity and reconciled with his parents and mended. (F. Swietek) the other is not, it is the recently widowed Mormon elders, but also lives with a wife in Choi who comes across as the slightly more Salt Lake City. When a funeral once again Dirty Wars HHH1/2 sympathetic protagonist. While the Heat- brings them face-to-face, sparks fly but Chris’s MPI, 86 min., not rated, DVD: $24.98 like shootout at the end—meant to convey denial and fear prove to be formidable obsta- Based on Jeremy Scahill’s book of the same the futility of the war on drugs—doesn’t cles. Things grow even more tense when R.J.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 22 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 WINNER later shows up at Chris’s house, determined to Freda was recruited from the fawning crowds Instead, he mentors arrogant Gustav Werner help his ex-partner face the fact that he is gay. packing the Cavern Club by Beatles manager (Ken Marino), who—not realizing who she Over time, Chris’s resistance cracks, bringing Brian Epstein to work in his office, and then is—seduces Carol after an industry party. him back into R.J.’s arms and on a collision to take charge of the massive amounts of fan Meanwhile, Carol’s encouraged by a nerdy course with his spouse and community. mail. All of it was answered, sometimes with post-production (Demetri Testament of Love is darker than the original a signed picture, sometimes with an authen- Martin) who not only adores her but pushes film, although Garcia and his compelling tic scrap of worn shirt or lock of hair. Ryan big business her way. All of this is happening lead actors have produced another powerful White’s lackadaisical documentary focuses on when Carol moves out of her father’s apart- movie. Recommended. (T. Keogh) how the shy, loyal, trustworthy young girl be- ment and crashes with her sister (Michaela came, in her own way, the “first” fifth Beatle. Watkins) and brother-in-law (Rob Corddry), The Family HH Freda stresses throughout how fun it all was, who are in a marital crisis. Carol, Sam, and Fox, 111 min., R, DVD: $29.98, even when things got “mental” thanks to Gustav eventually become engaged in a toxic Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $39.99 the ever-increasing fan club membership. rivalry, vying with each other to land the French director Luc Freda had a very close personal relationship for a huge movie franchise, The Amazon Besson has assembled a with “Eppie,” as they called Epstein, as well Games—and thereby utter the “In a world…” star-studded cast for this as Paul, John, George, and Ringo—who all phrase made famous by the legendary real- mobsters-in-hiding comedy refused to let her quit when operations moved life Don LaFontaine, who died in 2008. Also revolving around Giovanni to London. In between reminiscences, Freda featuring Eva Longoria, Tig Notaro, Nick Manzoni (), who ruthlessly shows off some of her priceless memorabilia, Offerman, Alexandra Holden, and Geena ratted out the Brooklyn Mafia and will now but often demurs with a bashful smile when Davis, this savvy, screwball, feminist comedy spend the rest of his life in the FBI’s Witness pushed for tastier tidbits. Likely to appeal to is recommended. (S. Granger) Protection Program. Unfortunately, Manzoni Beatlemaniacs, this so-so documentary is a keeps blowing his cover, which continually strong optional purchase. (T. Fr y) Informant HHH frustrates his dyspeptic handler (Tommy Lee Music Box, 81 min., not rated, Jones). Along with his dysfunctional family, I Used to Be Darker DVD: $29.95 Manzoni has just been relocated to a small HHH Writer-director Jamie village in Normandy, France. Under the as- Strand, 90 min., not rated, Meltzer’s documentary pres- sumed name of Blake, the Manzonis face yet DVD: $27.99, Jan. 28 ents a complex and com- another set of re-adjustment issues. Manzoni’s A slice-of-life drama in pelling portrait of radical wife () not only can’t find which a family implodes, left-wing activist Brandon Darby, who would later turn into an FBI peanut butter in the food mart but she’s after which its members informant and Tea Party conservative. rudely informed that local grocers don’t like begin rebuilding new lives, I The film chronicles this radical shift from to stock American products. Infuriated at the Used to Be Darker is the kind of work in which left to right with admirable neutrality, but disrespect, she perhaps overreacts—blowing events unfold with the randomness of daily as the tale progresses—with Darby’s par- up the place. Meanwhile, the manipulative reality. The central character, Taryn (Deragh ticipation—it’s becomes harder to avoid the Manzoni offspring (Dianna Agron, John Campbell), is an Irish girl who makes her conclusion that the Austin, TX-based Darby D’Leo) quickly size up their new schoolmates way to an aunt (Kim Taylor) and uncle (Ned is a two-faced rat who betrayed his admir- and embark on their own schemes. Instructed ) in Baltimore, only to find that the ing followers. Movie-star handsome and to stay out-of-sight, Giovanni discovers an couple—professional musicians—are break- charismatic, Darby was hailed as a hero in old manual typewriter and decides to write ing up, leaving their own teen daughter, Abby a tell-all memoir. Meanwhile, back home, 2005, when he led numerous relief efforts in (Hannah Gross), angry and miserable. Taryn Hurricane Katrina-ravaged New Orleans. He imprisoned Mafia dons dispatch contract kill- has an unspoken problem of her own (which ers to exact retribution. Adapted from Tonino subsequently founded the Common Ground eventually becomes clear), but for most of Relief organization, furthering his credibility Benacquista’s novel Malavita, the weak, un- the film she is buffeted by the conflicts at with left-wing activists everywhere. But the even script here never settles on a consistent, Hannah’s house, until later (and unexpect- honeymoon didn’t last: in 2008, Darby’s cohesive tone, careening from facetious and edly) finding herself under a different roof cooperation with the FBI led to the arrest amusingly amoral to far-from-comedic car- with her aunt’s bandmates. Writer-director of two young protesters at the Republican nage. Optional, at best. ( ) S. Granger Matthew Porterfield treats all of his scenes National Convention. Drawing on numer- as if they were randomly-drawn cards from a ous interviews with Darby and a variety of Good Ol’ Freda HH1/2 deck, lending an organic feel to the presenta- others on opposite ends of the ideological Magnolia, 87 min., PG, DVD: tion. Recommended. (T. Keogh) spectrum, Meltzer winds up with a damning $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 indictment of Darby as a turncoat—although As a footnote in the an- In a World… HHH conservatives and Tea Party members will nals of Beatlemania, Good Sony, 93 min., R, DVD: $30.99, no doubt draw the opposite conclusion. Ol’ Freda offers no new rev- Blu-ray: $35.99, Jan. 21 The film’s use of re-enactments (including elations or delectable dish Writer-director-star Lake Darby playing himself) is questionable, but about the Fab Four’s heyday, Bell’s In a World… takes a Meltzer has effectively created a Rashomon- but it does serve up some adorable anecdotes behind-the-curtain peek at like study of broken trust, media celebrity, about life outside the limelight for “the boys,” Hollywood’s highly compet- and the steady corrosion of civil liberties, as reported by Freda Kelly, the Beatles’ secre- itive voiceover profession. particularly the ethical stretching involved tary and fan club manager, who earned the Haplessly neurotic Carol Solomon (Bell) is in secret governmental surveillance of U.S. title moniker by being their protective teen- a dialect coach and aspiring voiceover artist citizens. Recommended. (J. Shannon) age mother hen. Now in her late 60s, Freda whose chauvinistic, egocentric father (Fred fondly, sometimes wistfully, and always coyly Melamed) is one of the industry’s sonorous Insidious: Chapter 2 H1/2 remembers what it was like to be both a de- greats. Rather than encouraging Carol, he Sony, 106 min., PG-13, DVD: $30.99, Blu-ray/ voted fan and a key figure in the organization constantly demeans her, claiming that “the DVD Combo: $40.99 for 11 years. As a 16-year-old Liverpudlian, industry does not crave a female sound.” Picking up right where the original left

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 24 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 off, Insidious: Chapter 2 finds feelings). While both the acting and action joins the Civil Rights movement. Cuba Good- the troubled Lambert family are solid, the real standout here is a sprawling, ing Jr., Lenny Kravitz, and Terrence Howard trying to uncover a mysteri- impeccably detailed, nostalgic recreation of shine in supporting roles, as does ous childhood secret that the British-occupied Hong Kong of yesteryear. in a cameo as Nancy Reagan, but Robin Wil- has malevolently connected Recommended. (C. Cassady) liams, John Cusack, Liev Schreiber, and Alan them to a shadowy nether- Rickman fare less well as Eisenhower, Nixon, world. Having just rescued Jump HHH Johnson, and Reagan, while James Marsden their son, Dalton (Ty Simp- Breaking Glass, 80 min., not and Minka Kelly impersonate the Kennedys. kins), from the fiendish forces of the spirit rated, DVD: $24.99 Although the parade of famous faces can be realm, mom Renai () and dad Josh Set on a New Year’s Eve distracting, this is ultimately a challenging (Patrick Wilson) must face the consequences: in Derry, , and haunting historical epic. Highly recom- namely, the murder of Elise (), the Jump finds the lives of five mended. (S. Granger) strangled family friend/medium who—along twentysomething men and with her goofy, paranormal investigating women affected by the dis- Margarita HHH cohorts—helped get Dalton back. Of course, appearance of a young man who angered Wolfe, 91 min., not rated, DVD: there are plenty of bizarre, unwelcome oc- a local mobster (Lalor Roddy). The latter’s $24.95 currences, such as a self-playing piano, baby daughter, Greta (Nichola Burley)—haunted A big hit on the LGBT film toys tossing themselves around, and Dalton’s by her mother’s death and distressed by her festival circuit, co-directors conversations with something in the closet. father’s misdeeds—is interrupted during a Dominique Cardona and It seems that both Dalton and Josh have the suicide attempt by Pearse (Martin McCann), Laurie Colbert’s Canadian ability to astral project into a place between a brother of the missing man. Bloodied dramedy Margarita is an life and death that is populated by ghouls from a beating by the mobster’s henchmen entertaining indie effort that succeeds on looking for a healthy body to occupy. Josh’s (for being too inquisitive about his sibling), the strength of its ensemble cast and low- mother (Barbara Hershey) helps the family Pearse is bent on revenge, but falls for Greta. budget charm. The title character is an un- track down an old man who knows more Meanwhile, Greta’s friends, Marie (Charlene documented Mexican nanny (Nicola Correia about both the dimension called “the Fur- McKenna) and Dara (Valene Kane), unaware Damude) who has worked many years for an ther” and the demonic creature that has now of the suicide plan, celebrate the start of a new upscale couple (Patrick McKenna, taken possession of Josh’s body for nefarious year. And then there’s the murder of Pearse’s Claire Lautier) whose tomboy-teen daughter, purposes. Utilizing every cheesy cliché in the cousin, a crime involving small-time crook Mali (Maya Ritter), loves Margarita like a ghost-buster genre, returning director James Johnny (Richard Dormer), who has been sister. But on the personal side, Margarita’s Wan’s tedious and repetitive low-budget reluctantly dragged into efforts to silence girlfriend, Jane (Christine Horne), is hesitant chiller is not recommended. (S. Granger) Pearse. The fateful intersections of these char- to commit when they’re both so young (at acters—most of whom are strangers to one 24), and when she’s faced with the threat of Ip Man: The Final Fight another—are smartly played out in this film deportation, Margarita makes preparations HHH by Kieron J. Walsh. Yes, coincidences abound, to return to Mexico, although circumstances Well Go USA, 101 min., in but there’s a welcome aura of absurdity to the take a turn for the better. It’s a featherweight Cantonese w/English subtitles, rainbow of tones (grim, silly, romantic) found drama, leavened with gently amusing comedy PG-13, DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: in this chamber piece featuring an appealing (Canadian TV star McKenna scores a few good $29.98 cast. Recommended. (T. Keogh) laughs as the well-meaning husband on the Not to be confused with verge of financial disaster), butMargarita man- the Ip Man and Ip Man 2: Leg- Lee Daniels’ The Butler ages to keep the viewer emotionally invested end of the Grandmaster films starring Donnie HHH1/2 in the fortunes and futures of its small, ap- Yen, Ip Man: The Final Fight is part of a series Weinstein, 132 min., PG-13, pealing cast of characters. Recommended. of mythologizing, high-profile, martial-arts DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.99, (J. Shannon) epics centered around a real-life martial-arts Jan. 14 teacher (including director Herman Yau’s Inspired by Wil Haygood’s Mary and Martha HHH 2010 The Legend is Born: Ip Man). The schizoid 2008 Washington Post article HBO, 95 min., PG, DVD: narrative—a mix of straight bio-pic and fight about a White House stew- $19.98 scenes—covers the hero’s life from middle age ard who served eight U.S. Presidents, film- Screenwriter Richard Cur- to death, with some agreeably seasoned actors maker Lee Daniels’ The Butler stars Forest tis (Love Actually) and direc- handling the chopsocky stuff. Scholarly-look- Whitaker as soft-spoken Cecil Gaines, an tor Phillip Noyce (Patriot ing Master Ip Man (Anthony Wong) arrives engaging amalgamation of several butlers Games) bring sensitivity and in Hong Kong in 1950, practically penniless who worked at 1600 Avenue. energy to this well-crafted following World War II. He establishes a low- As a youngster in Georgia, Gaines witnessed story about two mothers—Mary (Hilary profile school teaching the Wing Chun style, the rape of his mother (Mariah Carey) and Swank), an American, and Martha (Brenda and endures a bittersweet separation from his shooting of his father. Trained as a domestic Blethyn), who is British—both of whom lose wife, who cannot adapt to the crowded me- servant by the cotton plantation’s elderly sons to malaria in South Africa. Bonding tropolis. After becoming a widower, Master matriarch (), Cecil was told: through grief, the women meet and chan- Ip scandalizes his pupils by keeping company “The room should feel empty when you’re nel their emotions into activism on behalf with a showgirl who is attracted by his kind- in it.” Gaines perfects his dignified, white- of children susceptible to the disease. The ness. Much of the saga follows the pupils in gloved skills at posh hotels until he’s asked to challenge comes when Mary and Martha their separate travails—in labor-union unrest, join the White House staff. As a silent, first- must decide where to go next with their de- police corruption, and triad-fixed boxing hand witness to history, he dutifully serves sire to help: the only direction appears to be matches—but late in the drama we get a each First Family from 1957 to 1986. His up—into the halls of power where politicians glimpse (not much more) of Master Ip’s most steadfast devotion infuriates his frustrated, can loosen purse strings for research and aid. renowned student, the iconic (over alcoholic wife (Oprah Winfrey) and alienates Swank and Blethyn boast fine chemistry in whose stardom Ip Man seems to have mixed his rebellious elder son (David Oyelowo), who this HBO-aired cable movie partially inspired

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 25 VIDEO LIBRARIAN by true events, while makes a mouthpieces. Not recommended. sexuality, early addiction, suicide attempts, strong impression as Mary’s estranged father. (F. Swietek) and long estrangement from his straitlaced A handsome film that benefits from Noyce’s family (especially a father still struggling to trademark eye for landscapes and gripping The Mortal Instruments: accept all of this). No hardcore imagery is pre- action, Mary and Martha effectively tells a City of HH sented (Buck’s infamous genitalia is revealed dignified tale of emotional survival. Recom- Sony, 130 min., PG-13, DVD: only in promotional still photos), but this mended. (T. Keogh) $30.99, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: is definitely an adult LGBT title, albeit with $40.99 wider appeal, featuring interviews with talk Matt’s Chance HHH1/2 Based on the 2007 first show host Wendy Williams, columnist Dan Osiris, 95 min., not rated, novel in Cassandra Clare’s Savage, and porn actress Sasha Grey. A festival DVD: $16.98 The Mortal Instruments YA circuit favorite that premiered at SXSW, this The biggest surprise in fantasy series, City of Bones is set in a world is recommended. (C. Cassady) Nicholas Gyeney’s dark much like our own, except that vampires and indie comedy is Edward werewolves make up part of the populace. Mulan: Rise of a Warrior Furlong (whose star wattage Clary (Lily Collins), who lives in Brooklyn HHH quickly dimmed following with her mother, Jocelyn (Lena Headey), , 115 min., in his breakout child actor role in 1991’s Termi- has no idea that such creatures exist until Mandarin w/English subtitles, nator 2: Judgment Day) as the titular down- the night she and her friend, Simon (Robert TV-MA, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: on-his-luck slob, who becomes obsessed Sheehan), meet Jace (Jamie Campbell Bower), $29.98 with seeking revenge after discovering his a Shadowhunter who identifies Clary as a Many Americans are only pregnant fiancée in bed with another man. member of his half-angel tribe that lives to familiar with the Chinese Furlong brings a sublime mix of angst, anger, fight evil. When Jocelyn—who neglected to legend of Mulan because of the 1998 Disney and comic agitation to his character, and he tell Clary about her nature—goes missing, animated movie. Set in the year 450 A.D., this is truly hilarious in a sequence in which his the trio set out to track her down before a Chinese live-action feature film stars Zhao appearance in a giant bunny costume at a kid- turncoat Shadowhunter (Jonathan Rhys Mey- Wei as Hua Mulan—headstrong daughter of die birthday party generates a Lord of the Flies- ers) can get hold of her magical chalice and a retired general—who disguises her gender worthy response from the youngsters. Adding wreak havoc. Along the way, they receive help in order to join the military. Over the years, to the fun is Bill Sorice as a Russian gangster from some—including a mentor (Jared Harris) Mulan proves herself to be among the finest who winds up making Matt’s bad situation and a witch (CCH Pounder)—and hindrance soldiers in the land, eventually rising to the much, much worse. And three old-timers are from others, such as disgusting demons and rank of general. Although her dedication to on hand in winning supporting comic roles: ravenous bloodsuckers. To Simon’s chagrin, military duty is without question, Mulan’s Gary Busey as a pawn shop owner; Lee Majors Clary and Jace also fall in love. Unfortunately, potential weakness lies in her unrequited love as a barber; and Margot Kidder as a not-very- director Harald Zwart’s film is bogged down for fellow soldier Wentai (Chen Kun). Under glamorous stripper. Gyeney’s direction keeps by a sprawling plot, awkward dialogue, and the crisp direction of Jingle Ma, Mulan: Rise this energetic, entertaining film moving at a a silly Star Wars twist. Optional, at best. of a Warrior boasts rich production design crisp pace. Highly recommended. (P. Hall) (K. Fennessy) and stunning battle sequences that recall the extravagant epics of old-school Holly- Molly’s Theory of HHH wood. And while the beautiful Wei may not Mr. Angel look like the stereotypical Chinese general Relativity HH Breaking Glass, 68 min., not rated, DVD: $21.99 (it is unintentionally amusing that no one Adopt, 102 min., not rated, can guess her real gender), she invests her DVD: $29.95 Even in a media realm performance with enormous energy. Deliver- Writer-director Jeff Lip- fecund with docu-portraits ing a satisfying action-adventure tale, this is sky’s extremely small-scaled of porn stars and sex work- recommended. (P. Hall) domestic comedy-drama ers, Buck Angel emerges as stars Sophia Takal as Molly, one heckuva subject. The massive, bald, well-spoken bodybuilder—who Museum Hours HHH a jobless young astrophysicist living in a small Cinema Guild, 107 min., in New York apartment with her husband, Zak lives with his body-piercing-specialist wife, English & German w/English (Takal’s real-life husband, Lawrence Michael Elayne, in Mexico (they claim to be among subtitles, not rated, DVD: Levine), who is working two low-paying jobs the alarmed Americans who actually did flee $29.95, Blu-ray: $34.95 in order to support them. On the U.S. because of George W. Bush)—re- The intersection of art night, the couple are visited by a slew of sembles a rippling-muscled pinup. But Angel and life lies at the center guests—Zak’s father (from whom Zak is es- was born female, and found jobs as a blonde of Jem Cohen’s ruminative tranged over money), a precocious neighbor glamour . Despite self-identification Museum Hours, which focuses on the relation- girl dressed as Albert Einstein (along with her as a man, male-hormone treatments, and ship between a Canadian woman visiting mute grandfather, who is introduced as Boris breast-removal surgery, Angel chose to keep Vienna and a guard at the Kunsthistorisches Pasternak), the ghosts of Molly’s mother and “his” vagina, which he has used extensively Museum. Driven more by mood than plot, grandmother, and a little boy who may or in his porn film career (in the international the film opens with Johann (Bobby Som- may not be imaginary. The visitors all share marketplace, Angel is unique, catering to fan- mer) watching the disparate museum visitors secrets, memories, fears, and life lessons, tasy-fetishes that most of us didn’t even know looking at the art exhibitions, describing in which are apparently designed to emphasize existed). One may or may not accept the prem- contemplative, wistful, and wry voiceover the importance of family. While there are ise of Dan Hunt’s documentary—namely, that his attitudes toward his job, life, and the a few penetrating observations in this film Angel is a heroic “sex educator,” bearing a mes- artifacts he helps protect. Anne (Mary Mar- that features graphic nudity and sex, almost sage of tolerance and acceptance garet O’Hara), a plain middle-aged woman, all of the dialogue sounds as though it were that he even takes to Yale University. But the strikes up a conversation with Johann and coming out of Lipsky’s word processor rather film is no tabloid-sideshow, instead emphasiz- asks directions to a local hospital where than from the mouths of real human beings, ing heavy emotional territory as the sympa- her cousin is a patient. Johann eventually so the characters never seem to be more than thetic Angel talks about wrestling with his becomes Anne’s budget tour-guide, even ac-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 26 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 companying her on visits to the hospital. who announces grand plans to tour the world sians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming) But while this personal aspect is charming, in his boat but is in fact a semi-dysfunctional and (with whom he became a Cohen’s real focus is on the museum, both loner living in squalor. The ties between these close friend as well as colleague). As a hom- the masterpieces on the walls and the people fellows become even more interesting as Britt age to the machine-gun collages Ferro often who visit and then go about their business acquires a doting girlfriend (for whom he may employed, Goldgewicht constructs Pablo as outside—juxtaposing contemporary scenes never be truly ready), Bob begins to settle a visually striking cascade of different me- of Viennese life with lovingly photographed down, and Dave resigns himself to a retire- dia—including film clips, stills, graphics, and paintings. Cohen seems to be suggesting that ment plan he doesn’t want. Writer-director —with excerpts from interviews of while art imitates life, the reverse can also be Taylor Guterson remains rigorously true to Ferro, many of which are tied to an animated true. Recommended. (F. Swietek) the destinies of his characters, eschewing sequence showing the artist being shot at the easy attempts at fairy-tale endings for these front door of his apartment—an attack that Oka! HHH endearing guys and instead allowing them has left him in chronic pain (and searching Well Go USA, 105 min., to stew (as must we all) in their own juices. for a way to afford a personal sauna). Addi- in English, French & Aka Recommended. (T. Keogh) tional interview clips feature Jewison, Beau w/English subtitles, not rated, Bridges, (who starred in the DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 Only God Forgives H1/2 only feature Ferro ever directed), and Leonard A sweet-natured tale of Anchor Bay, 90 min., R, DVD: Maltin, as well as family members—includ- personal and cultural ex- $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.99 ing children from whom he’s sometimes ploration in Central Africa, Nicolas Winding Refn’s been estranged—and friends. Narrated in filmmaker Lavinia Currier’s follow-up to Drive reunites deadpan style by —who clearly Oka! is based on an unpublished memoir by him with star relishes delivering digressive little history ethnomusicologist Louis Sarno. In the late for a cross-cultural tale of lessons on TV commercials, trailers, and 1980s, Sarno traveled from New Jersey to American criminals in the credit sequences—this is an informative and Africa to record the traditional music of the Thai underworld. Julian (Gosling) is a re- entertaining portrait of an offbeat influential forest-dwelling Bayaka Pygmies of Yandombe. luctant gangster, pushed by his crime-lord artist. Highly recommended. (F. Swietek) Sarno’s alter ego here is Larry (Kris Marshall), mother, Crystal (Kristin Scott Thomas), to who journeys to Yandombe despite a failing avenge the murder of his older brother, a drug Paradise: Hope HHH liver and other threats to his health. After smuggler who used a boxing club as a cover Strand, 91 min., in German arriving, Larry immerses himself in Bayaka and got his kicks from torturing and killing w/English subtitles, not rated, culture so deeply that he decides to stay on, re- child prostitutes. “I’m sure he had his rea- DVD: $27.99, Jan. 14 cording music and falling in love with a young sons,” says Crystal ( of irony), Paradise: Hope is the final Bayaka woman. It’s not all happily , as she hires hitmen to go after Chang (Vithaya film in Austrian director however: the local Bantu mayor (Isaach De Pansringarm), the avenging street cop who Ulrich Seidl’s loose, semi- Bankolé) is involved in shady deals with a Chi- killed her son. Only God Forgives is a very lurid improvised trilogy that also nese logging firm that threatens to decimate and violent film, serving up an abstract pas- includes Paradise: Love and Paradise: Faith the forest, and he’s also planning to frame the sion play set in the slums of Bangkok, bathed (both reviewed in VL-9/13). This last film Bayaka for poaching elephants. Rather than in intense greens and reds. Gosling walks features a tenuous connection to Paradise: pursue a political agenda, however, Currier through all this as if in a trance, while the Love, which was about Austrian female sex- favors a more lighthearted, loosely plotted cop exacts his own brand of Old Testament tourists in Kenya, since while her single mom character study, beautifully shot by Conrad justice with a sword he pulls out of his back is away on an African adventure, overweight W. Hall (son of the late, great cinematographer collar like a diminutive samurai superhero, adolescent Melanie (Melanie Lenz) is sent to ), filled with enough tribal music, afterward heading to the karaoke club to sing a “diet camp” in the Austrian hinterlands. dance, language, and jungle wildlife to make away his sins. A revenge fantasy, In between exercise regimens and bonding Oka! (the Aka language word for “Listen!”) a full of extreme violence, sexual depravity, with her roommates in secret food raids on memorable travelogue in sight and sound. A and desperate poverty—with Gosling playing the cafeteria, Melanie develops a severe crush lively, uplifting film, this is recommended. something of a romantic dropped into the on one of the principal faculty members, a (J. Shannon) family drug business—this film is beautiful to trim, middle-aged, nameless doctor (Joseph look at, but is ultimately just B-movie exploi- Lorenz). Troublingly, the man returns her Old Goats HHH tation with pretentions to artistic grace. Not fascination, meeting in his office for word- Music Box, 94 min., not rated, a necessary purchase. (S. Axmaker) less glances and secret touching (sessions DVD: $29.95, Jan. 21 that threaten to grow ever more erotic and This sweet and mis- Pablo HHH1/2 dangerous), a quasi-affair that is an open chievous comedy revolves Breaking Glass, 93 min., not secret to the other girls. Some may find around the unlikely friend- rated, DVD: $24.99 Seidl’s muted resolution a cop-out compared ship between three old men, Richard Goldgewicht’s to the directly confrontational narratives in who play themselves within documentary profile looks his two other films, but it meshes nicely as a fictional framework. Dave (David Vander at Cuban-born graphic part of the set. Despite the diet camp angle, Wal) is a financially comfortable retiree designer Pablo Ferro, who the hefty Teutonic maidens here—played by resisting pressure from his controlling wife (following a brief stint with non-pros—seem perfectly and refreshingly to buy a condominium in another state and comic books) revolutionized the style of TV comfortable in their own ample, non-Hol- move away from their longtime home. Part commercials during the early ‘60s and did the lywood skins. Recommended. (C. Cassady) of Dave’s denial strategy is to spend a lot of same for film credit sequences and trailers. time driving Bob (Bob Burkholder) around on Ferro collaborated with Stanley Kubrick on Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters HH errands—the latter being a randy, opinion- Dr. Strangelove and A Clockwork Orange, while Fox, 107 min., PG, DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD ated, foul-mouthed veteran who is writing a also developing continuing professional Combo: $39.99 memoir about his virile youth and sexual con- relationships with (Ferro Since three years have passed since the quests. Bob champions Britt (Britton Crosley), created the memorable opening for The Rus- arrival of Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 27 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Lightning Thief—adapted who is fascinated by Spector and convinced (Kevin Bacon). In the afterlife, Nick is given from the first book in Rick there is enough doubt in the evidence to the opportunity to redeem himself by work- Riordan’s bestselling YA find him not guilty. In fact, the script makes ing for the Rest in Peace Department, where fantasy series—early ex- precisely that case—i.e., the evidence is he is tasked with bringing in (or annihilat- position reminds us that inconclusive at best—and Mamet suggests ing) so called “Deados,” deceased folks who Percy (Logan Lerman) is that Spector is a scapegoat for other celebrity refuse to “move on” to the lower depths. the half-human son of the murder trials, thereby stacking the deck for Partnered with Roy (Jeff Bridges)—a garru- sea god Poseidon. When an interpretation of Spector as martyred lous Wild West lawman—Nick has to learn Camp Half-Blood, the teenage demigods’ innocent without actually stating his belief the ropes for taking down these malefactors, woodsy refuge, is suddenly imperiled, Percy in Spector’s innocence (although Mamet has who (when confronted) turn into bulbous, and friends (Brandon T. Jackson) and said so elsewhere). Unreliable as a biographi- smelly, destructive, cartoonish beasties. Annabeth (Alexandra Daddario) embark on cal drama and less compelling than Mamet’s Nick is also driven to try to reconnect with a quest to retrieve the fabled Golden Fleece best plays and screenplays, the film never- his widow Julia (Stephanie Szostak), despite from the Sea of Monsters (aka the Bermuda theless boasts a certain freak show curiosity the fact that to humans he appears in the Triangle) in order to restore the Camp’s due to Pacino’s over-the-top performance. form of an elderly Chinese man. And, of protective barrier. They’re joined by Percy’s An optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) course, he wants to bring down Hayes, who half-brother, Tyson (Douglas Smith), an in- is not only romancing Julia but also plans secure, sweet-natured Cyclops with one huge HHH to release all the souls from hell in order to CGI eye. Not surprisingly, the group finds Magnolia, 94 min., R, DVD: take over the world. Initially, Nick and Roy itself in a rivalry with the highly competi- $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 are predictably like oil and water, but they tive, self-centered Clarisse (Leven Rambin), Following a trio of medi- manage to bond and—in a splashy, over- who has joined forces with Luke (Jake Abel), ocre studio comedies (Pine- the-top finale—avert Armageddon. Bridges the roguish, resentful son of Hermes. Com- apple Express, , steals what little show there is in R.I.P.D. bative Luke is determined to use the Fleece’s ), writer-director with his broad, oversized turn, but Reynolds restorative powers to resurrect evil Cronos, re- is bland and Bacon does little more than the vengeful Titan, who was vanquished turns to his indie roots with this strangely flare his nostrils. The cheesy special effects centuries ago. Directed by Thor Freudenthal, affecting comedy-drama, set in a burned- here aim for loopy and cool but wind up being silly, gross, and boring. Not recom- this second installment sees the return of out forest in rural Texas. In what amounts mended. ( ) as wine-loving Camp direc- largely to a two-man show, Paul Rudd and F. Swietek tor Dionysus, Anthony Head as the centaur Emile Hirsch star as Alvin and Lance, respec- Chiron, and Nathan Fillion as Hermes—the tively, a pair of road maintenance workers Romeo and Juliet in god of travelers, messengers, and thieves, who paint center stripes and install mileage Yiddish HH1/2 now serving as manager of a UPS store. markers along a stretch of remote asphalt in Nancy Fishman Film Releasing Notable special effects here include the fire- an area devastated by a recent blaze. Alvin, (avail. from www.amazon. breathing Colchis Bull, a supernatural taxi com), 92 min., PG-13, DVD: who is endlessly driven to improve himself $24.95 ride with three haggling Graeae, a seafaring and meticulously plans out every detail of Hippocampus, and a climactic battle with the his future, landed the job for Lance—his While the title might Cyclops guarding an abandoned amusement girlfriend’s brother—who is only interested suggest a performance of park called Circeland. Overall, however, this in good times. Stuck together in makeshift Shakespeare’s play in Yiddish, only a few is a disappointingly uninspired film that campsites along the route, the two bicker and scenes are included in this complicated, just doesn’t live up to the far superior novel. complain, and are occasionally visited by a overly cute, and clumsily executed comedy Optional. (S. Granger) grizzled trucker (Lance LeGault) who offers written and directed by Eve Annenberg, them advice concerning women (and some who also stars as Ava, a graduate student HH whiskey). A turning point in what passes for assigned to update an old Yiddish transla- a plot here occurs when Lance goes off for a tion of Romeo and Juliet by her professor. HBO, 92 min., TV-14, DVD: Stymied by the Elizabethan language, $19.98 weekend and returns with bad news for both Ava hires three goofy young men to help Although this made-for- himself and Alvin—leading to a drunken bonding session as they sympathize with out—ultra-orthodox-raised Jews who are HBO movie is clearly based making a living on the streets through on the trial of famed music each other’s plight. Prince Avalanche is like The Odd Couple in the great outdoors, replete whatever scams they can pull off (includ- producer Phil Spector, who ing stiffing their own lawyer with a bad was indicted for the murder with sometimes amusing and sometimes revealing dialogue. An alternately funny and check). A convenient dose of magic thrusts of B-movie actress Lana Clarkson in 2003, the four into the play—the boys as Romeo, writer-director David Mamet insists that it is sad rumination on the fragility of human affairs that also suggests the possibilities Benvolio, and Mercutio, with Ava as Juliet’s a work of fiction. Not surprisingly,Phil Spec- nurse—in which the rival families have tor feels like a Mamet play, full of dialogue of new beginnings, this is recommended. (F. Swietek) become hostile Hasidic sects, and the ball that combines philosophical arguments where Romeo first encounters Juliet is a Pu- with psychological explorations. rim celebration. Selected scenes are played paces and rants throughout as Spector, the R.I.P.D. H1/2 in Brooklyn settings—a fire escape instead philosopher king in cartoonish hairdos and Universal, 96 min., PG-13, of a balcony, with subway ramps replacing clothes—a flamboyant, eccentric celebrity DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98 Verona’s streets—and a rabbi stands in for driven as much by his own ego as he is by Adapted from a comic- Friar Laurence. It’s an amusing enough con- indignation over being accused of murder. book, this unholy mash-up ceit, but the various plot threads are never Spector comes across as a canny profes- of Men in Black, Ghostbusters, successfully woven together and the strain- sional with insights into culture who is Ghost, and the short-lived ing-for-laughs cast is strictly amateur. The oblivious to the way that the world views CW series Reaper stars Ryan film does boast moments of genuine charm, his behavior and attitudes. Reynolds as Nick, a Boston cop killed during but overall this is a better concept than an costars as attorney Linda Kenney Baden, a drug raid by his nefarious partner, Hayes actual movie. Optional. (F. Swietek)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 28 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014

Runner Runner HH takes place nearly a millennium earlier. personal woes. Directed by Jacob Goldwasser, Fox, 92 min., R, DVD: $29.98, Highly recommended. (C. Cassady) this 2007 film grows somewhat funnier as Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $39.99, the ladies’ scheme unravels, and there are Jan. 7 Schooled: The Price of a couple of comic motifs—especially Irena’s tendency to settle confrontations with mar- Set in the world of online College Sports HHH1/2 gambling, Strand, 87 min., not rated, tial arts moves—that warrant a laugh. But for stars as DVD: $19.99 the most part this is a disappointing comedy. Richie Furst, a mathemati- Filmmakers Ross Fin- Optional. (T. Keogh) cally adept Princeton grad student who used kel, Jon Paley, and Trevor to work on Wall Street but (unlike his bosses) Martin’s revealing docu- HHH lost everything in the 2008 meltdown. Now mentary—narrated by Sam Cinedigm, 96 min., R, DVD: he collects a commission for directing fellow Rockwell—explores arguments that college $29.95, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $34.95, Jan. 14 Ivy Leaguers to a poker website. Following athletes should be paid for playing sports, a cease-and-desist threat of expulsion from including (and perhaps especially) those Written and directed Dean Monroe (Bob Gunton), Richie bets his attending school on a sports scholarship. If by Destin Daniel Cretton, tuition bankroll on a round of digital Texas that sounds counterintuitive, consider the this poignant psychologi- Hold ‘Em—which, against all odds, he loses. conditions under which college athletes play. cal drama about troubled Believing he’s been swindled, Richie travels Various former and current National Col- teens earned accolades at film festivals to Costa Rica to confront the online poker legiate Athletic Association (NCAA) players worldwide. Twentysomething Grace (Brie company’s CEO, Ivan Block (), interviewed here point out that schools are a Larson) is a group supervisor at a live-in fos- who conveniently lives offshore and outside de facto farm club for dozens of professional ter-care facility for at-risk kids. Working with federal jurisdiction. Ivan offers Richie a sports, but those not chosen potentially give her supportive, longtime boyfriend, Mason lucrative job, ostensibly grooming him as a up prime years of earning power in order to (John Gallagher Jr.), and new employee, Nate protégé. Also on hand is flirtatious Rebecca work for free while the NCAA takes in enor- (), Grace does her best to comfort (Gemma Arterton), who may or may not be mous profits. College athletes have no choice troubled residents, such as nearly-18-year-old Ivan’s exclusive arm candy. Before long, Rich- but to grant their skills, likenesses, and much Marcus (Keith Stanfield), who is terrified ie grows suspicious of his devious, obviously else for the financial gain of institutions, about living on his own for the first time, corrupt boss, and when an FBI agent (Antho- while stipends for food are so low that many and can only express his fear and fury in a ny Mackie) pressures him to turn informant student players often don’t have enough to rap song. But it’s the arrival of violently angry to take down Ivan on criminal charges, he eat. Administrators, coaches, and schools reap Jayden (Kaitlyn Dever)—who writes and il- is faced with a high-stakes moral dilemma. billions from games, marketing deals, video lustrates a revelatory fable about an octopus Unfortunately, director Brad Furman’s film games, TV revenue, and more while athletes and a shark—that pressures Grace into not suffers from a sketchy, stilted, and contrived are monitored constantly and endure severely only acknowledging her own difficult past script. Optional, at best. (S. Granger) restricted personal liberties as spelled out but also coming to terms with her unantici- by over 400 NCAA rules. Why don’t more pated future. Grace, Mason, and Nate aren’t Saving General Yang amateur athletes speak out? Because they therapists; as counselors, their job is to create a safe environment and keep the damaged HHH1/2 need to remain eligible to go professional adolescents under their protection from hurt- Well Go USA, 107 min., in one day, a status that easily changes when Mandarin w/English subtitles, the NCAA and colleges grow disenchanted ing themselves and others. But sometimes not rated, DVD: $24.98, Blu- with a student. Based on Pulitzer Prize-win- they perceive more than the mental health ray: $29.98 ning historian Taylor Branch’s 2011 e-book professionals, so tension naturally escalates Filmmaker ’s The Cartel (which grew out of his Atlantic when their evaluations and suggested treat- rousing battle epic tells Monthly magazine article “The Shame of Col- ments don’t align with the observations of a cherished morality tale from Chinese lege Sports”), this hard-hitting film is highly vigilant staffers. Basing the sensitive story history, one involving the seven sons of recommended. (T. Keogh) on his own experience working at a similar General Yang. Yu’s approach is aptly grand- institution, Cretton’s direction is realistic and scale—big as folklore itself—but avoids She’s Got It HH unsentimental. Recommended. (S. Granger) the outlandish wire stunts that would SISU, 87 min., in Hebrew have pushed the material into martial-arts w/English subtitles, not rated, A Single Shot HH fantasy. Set within the 10th-century Song DVD: $24.95 Well Go USA, 116 min., R, Dynasty, the story finds the Emperor’s realm A sometimes cute but DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98, being attacked by traditional enemies, the slow-moving comedy from Jan. 14 Khitan. During the battle, the Emperor’s Israel, She’s Got It is a heist Despite the title, there general, (), is movie with a battle-of-the- are two decisive rifle shots wounded by a poison arrow and deliberately sexes twist. Malka (Dorit-Bar-Or) is a com- in David M. Rosenthal’s A left stranded deep in enemy territory in bative shop steward at a clothes factory who Single Shot, but the mirror- order to lure out his seven young sons on becomes incensed when management lays ing of a destructive bullet with a redemptive a rescue mission that will pit them directly off a number of female employees, including round merely underscores the schematic against a vengeful Khitan commander. A her good friend, Irena (Evelyn Kaplun). Mean- quality of this slow-moving piece of noir-ish holy man predicts that six sons will return while, Malka’s sister, Yafit (Yael Poliakov), be- backwoods pulp. Venturing out from his home, but that prophecy ultimately takes on gins dating a security guard who is in cahoots trailer looking for deer, shaggy poacher John a different meaning, as the sacrifices made with Irena’s printer husband to rob a casino Moon () fires into the rustling by the Yang clan grow more painful and and substitute the stolen cash with counter- brush, killing a girl. Searching her belong- extreme. The title—which obviously echoes feit money. When the three women get wind ings, John finds a pile of cash. He conceals the Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan—is of the plot, they decide (along with Malka’s corpse and appropriates the money, hoping no mere commercial gimmick but instead husband) to step in and take the money for to use it to win back his estranged wife, who exceptionally fitting for this war story that themselves as a balm for unemployment and left along with their young son. Naturally,

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 30 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 “JOIN“JOIN“JOIN THETHE CLUB!”CLUB!”CLUB!”

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THETHETHE FILMFILM FILM MOVEMENTMOVEMENT MOVEMENT SUBSCRIPTIONSUBSCRIPTIONSUBSCRIPTION FORFORFOR LIBRARIES LIBRARIES Receive a new film on DVD every month, before it’s •• ReceiveReceiveReceive aa anewnew new filmfilm film on on DVDDVD every every month,month,month, beforebeforebeforeit’s it’s it’s • •available to the general public availableavailableavailable toto to thethe the generalgeneral general public public Subscriptions are available with Public Performance •• SubscriptionsSubscriptionsSubscriptions areare are availableavailable available with with PublicPublic Public PerformancePerformance Performance • •Rights (PPR) & Digital Rights Licenses (DRL) RightsRightsRights (PPR)(PPR) (PPR) && & DigitalDigital Digital Rights Rights Licenses Licenses (DRL)(DRL) (DRL) Discussion guides & marketing materials •• DiscussionDiscussionDiscussion guidesguides guides & & marketing marketing materialsmaterials materials • •are provided areareare providedprovided provided • IndividualIndividual titlestitles alsoalso available withwith PPRPPR && DRLDRL •• •Individual Individual titles titles also also available available with with PPR PPR & & DRL DRL RECENTRECENTRECENT FILM FILM MOVEMENTMOVEMENTMOVEMENT RELEASESRELEASESRELEASES:::

ININ THE THE NAME NAME OF OF BROKEN THETHE IRAN JOB JOB WILLWILL YOU YOU STILL STILL LOVE LOVE ME ME TOMORROW? TOMORROW? THETHE JEWISH JEWISH CARDINAL CARDINAL WILLWILL YOUYOU STILLSTILL LOVE ME TOMORROW? INUPC:UPC: THEIN 616892-186960 616892-186960 THE NAME NAME OF OF UPC:UPC: 616892-186861BROKENBROKEN UPC:UPC:THETHE 616892-186663 616892-186663 IRAN IRAN JOB JOB UPC:UPC: 616892-187165 616892-187165 THETHEUPC:UPC: JEWISH JEWISH616892-187264 616892-187264 CARDINAL CARDINAL UPC:UPC: 616892-186861 616892-186861 UPC:UPC: 616892-187264 616892-187264 UPC:UPC: SRP:616892-186960SRP: 616892-186960$24.95 $24.95 SRP: $24.95 UPC:UPC:SRP: SRP:616892-186663 616892-186663 $24.95 $24.95 UPC:UPC:SRP: SRP: 616892-187165616892-187165 $24.95 $24.95 SRP:SRP: $24.95 $24.95 SRP:SRP: $24.95 $24.95 SRP:SRP: $24.95 $24.95 PPR:PPR: $350.00 $350.00SRP: / /PPR SRP: PPR$24.95 + +$24.95 DRL: DRL: $499.00 $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00$350.00 / PPR + DRL: $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00 $350.00SRP: / SRP: /PPR PPR $24.95 $24.95+ + DRL: DRL: $499.00 $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00 $350.00 /SRP:SRP: PPR/ PPR $24.95+ + DRL: DRL: $499.00 $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00 $350.00 / PPR / PPR + +DRL: DRL: $499.00 $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00 $350.00 / PPR / PPR + + DRL: DRL: $499.00 $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00$350.00 // PPR + DRL: $499.00 PPR:PPR: $350.00 $350.00 / /PPR PPR + + DRL: DRL: $499.00 $499.00 PPR: PPR:$350.00LGBTQLGBTQ $350.00 Studies,/ Studies, PPR / PPR+ Religion, Religion, DRL:+ DRL: $499.00 $499.00 ComingComing ofof Age,Age, Latin American Studies,Studies, HumanHumanPPR:PPR: Rights,$350.00Rights, $350.00 Iran, Iran, / /PPRMiddle PPRMiddle + + EasternDRL: EasternDRL: $499.00 $499.00 Studies, Studies, LGBTQLGBTQ Studies, Studies, Asian Asian Language Language and and InterfaithInterfaith Dialogue, Dialogue, Jewish Jewish Studies, Studies, ComingComing of Age,of Age, Latin Latin American American Studies, Studies, InterfaithInterfaith Dialogue, Dialogue, Jewish Jewish Studies, Studies, LGBTQLGBTQAt-Risk At-RiskStudies, Studies, Youth Youth Religion, Religion, Women Directors HumanHumanPolitics,Politics, Rights, Rights, Sports, Sports, Iran, Iran, Women’s MiddleWomen’s Middle Eastern EasternStudies Studies Studies, Studies, LGBTQLGBTQCulture,Culture, Studies,Studies, Family Family AsianAsian Dynamics Dynamics Language andand Religion,Religion, Political Political Science, Science, Social Social Justice Justice At-RiskAt-Risk Youth Youth WomenWomen Directors Directors Politics,Politics, Sports, Sports, Women’s Women’s Studies Studies Culture,Culture, FamilyFamily Dynamics Religion,Religion, Political Political Science, Science, Social Social Justice Justice To subscribe or learn more, contact Maxwell Wolkin • (212) 941-7744 x211 ToToTo subscribesubscribe subscribe oror or learn learn more, more, contactcontact contact MaxwellMaxwell Maxwell Wolkin WolkinWolkin • •• (212) (212)(212) 941-7744 941-7744 x211 x211x211 [email protected]@filmmovement.com • • filmmovement.com/librariesfilmmovement.com/libraries [email protected]@filmmovement.com • • filmmovement.com/librariesfilmmovement.com/libraries that plan goes awry almost immediately and she compliments one of his poems—even Gomes’s Tabu is a two-part story that takes Moon soon finds himself in the crosshairs of though she has a boyfriend and a drug prob- considerable artistic risks, and often, but not the dead girl’s nasty partners: Obadiah (Joe lem. At Thanksgiving, Rusty’s pretentious always, succeeds. The first part, “Paradise Anderson), an ex-con sporting tattoos and a sister, Sam (Lily Collins), a 19-year-old college Lost,” set in Lisbon just after Christmas, mean attitude, and his even more menacing student, informs her father and brother that introduces a cantankerous elderly woman colleague, Waylon (Jason Isaacs). Also on she has just published her first novel, spark- named Aurora (Laura Soveral) who seems to hand are Jeffrey Wright as John’s booze- ing jealousy in Bill, who’s suffering from have little contact with reality, and her well- ridden old friend (a man with a secret) and writer’s block, and Rusty, who’s just getting intended neighbor and only true friend, Pilar Ophelia Lovibond as a sweet neighbor who started, but she leaves her mother out of the (Teresa Madruga). When Aurora is hospital- serves as a damsel-in-distress. Optional. (F. picture, since she holds Erica responsible for ized, she gives Pilar the name and address of Swietek) her parents’ split. Sam also does her best to a man named Gian Luca Ventura (Henrique fend off the advances of nice-guy classmate Espírito Santo). The second part, “Paradise,” Smash & Grab: The Story Lou (Logan Lerman), because she prefers switches to 50 years earlier, during ’s of the Pink Panthers no-strings relationships, although she softens colonial occupation in Africa, and is narrated HHH once she sees the way he cares for his termi- through the recollections of Gian Luca, who 1/2 nally ill mother. As the characters let down was the best friend of Aurora’s husband, a Music Box, 89 min., not rated, DVD: $19.95 their guards, relationships thrive, along with farmer whose fortunes were threatened by ef- expected roadblocks. Boone has assembled forts to bring independence to the Portuguese Filmmaker Havana Mark- a fine cast for this occasionally absorbing, colonies. The young Aurora (Ana Moreira) ing’s documentary focuses if tonally inconsistent film, but all of them and Gian Luca (Carloto Cotta) fall in love, on the notorious Pink Pan- have done better work elsewhere. A strong creating an emotional tumult within the thers: a network of master thieves who optional purchase. (K. Fennessy) growing chaos surrounding them. Gomes have stolen $300 million worth of jewels in structures Tabu with a bare minimum of dia- Europe, Asia, and the Middle East since 2000 logue and a flourish of artistic touches—most with stunning efficiency. Although not con- Sweetwater HH notably moody black-and-white cinematog- doning these crimes, Smash & Grab presents Arc, 95 min., R, DVD: $20.99, Blu-ray: $24.99 raphy capturing the lovers’ range of emotions the Panthers’ story as if it were a Hollywood and the elderly Aurora’s isolation—but the thriller, mixing interviews, animation, and Presumably, sibling di- film’s style doesn’t always work, and the reportage, as it tells the strange tale of the rectors Logan and Noah soundtrack’s Phil Spector-penned pop tunes Panthers’ emergence from the horrors of Miller intended this oddball are more distracting than dramatic. Still, this Yugoslavia’s disintegration in the 1990s, a oater to be a gender-bend- time when a black market for stolen jewels ing homage to the spaghetti interesting that dares to evolved among Serbian refugees. Security Westerns of in which Clint be different should be considered a strong camera footage from numerous jewelry stores Eastwood’s “” took ven- optional purchase. (P. Hall) across Europe captures the Panthers at work, geance on those who wronged his family. The briskly and boldly driving speeding cars villain here is a religious fanatic named Josiah Thérèse HH through shop entrances, snatching what they (scenery-chewing Jason Isaacs), who appar- MPI, 110 min., in French came for, and disappearing again—all in the ently will kill anyone threatening his iron w/English subtitles, R, DVD: $24.98 space of 20 seconds. Fascinating details are control over the titular town, which he has offered, such as the Panthers’ use of beautiful, turned into a 19th-century cult commune. Beautifully designed and wealthy-looking women to perform recon- One of those who are murdered happens to photographed, this French naissance in jewelry stores months before be the rancher-husband of Sarah (January import tells an almost re- a hit. Perhaps most interesting of all are Jones), an erstwhile hooker who turned over lentlessly depressing tale interviews with several police detectives from a new leaf when she married, but now suffers of a 1920s bourgeois family and the woman various countries, each of whom has been on both loss and humiliation at the hands of who threatens its stability with her doomed, the Panthers’ trail for years without success. the lascivious Josiah and his minions. Un- embittered longing for love. The script—co- Even the cops, it turns out, have a grudging derstandably, Sarah takes up her guns to sys- written by director (who died admiration for these successful bandits. tematically wipe out all malefactors. A third shortly after the film was completed) and Highly recommended. (T. Keogh) major player in this revenge tale is outsider based on the 1927 novel Thérèse Desqueyroux Sheriff Jackson (, doing a sort of by François Mauriac—serves up a series of Stuck in Love HH1/2 Gabby Hayes imitation)—sent to investigate downbeat episodes over a decade amidst gor- Millennium, 96 min., R, DVD: disappearances in the vicinity—who is drawn geous country landscapes and heavy-handed $28.99, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: into the fray. For some reason this pulp non- social commentary. Thérèse (Audrey Tautou) $29.99 sense attracted notable actors, but while the submits to an arranged marriage in order A divorced novelist and Millers clearly intend this to be at least partly to bring the land owned by two families his family grapple with is- a spoof, their ridiculously overwrought saga together—much in the way that kingdoms sues in Josh Boone’s direc- induces the sort of laughter that arises from once forged alliances by trading princesses. torial debut. Bill Borgens derision rather than amused appreciation. Her husband (Gilles Lellouche) is an uptight (Greg Kinnear), who putters around an Not recommended. (F. Swietek) aristocrat and the victim of Thérèse’s clumsy enviable beach house, pines for his ex-wife, attempt at murder (Thérèse also may or may Erica (), while enjoying Tabu HH1/2 not be responsible for devastating fires in trysts with a married neighbor (Kristen Bell). Adopt, 118 min., in Portuguese their vast pine forests). The reasoning behind It isn’t exactly a rough life, but it is a fairly w/English subtitles, not rated, her increasingly morose alienation has to empty one. His 16-year-old son, Rusty (Nat DVD: $29.95 do with class subversion and possibly envy Wolff), a Stephen King fan, divides his time Not to be confused with over the love that she sees her childhood between Bill and Erica (who has since remar- the same-named 1931 F.W. friend Anne find (and then lose). Contrary ried). Aspiring writer Rusty pursues Kate Murnau classic, Portuguese to her most famous screen persona in Amelie, (Liana Liberato), the girl of his dreams, after writer-director Miguel Tautou here is sullen and ashen, smoking

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 32 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 endless cigarettes while falling deeper into with Will seems particularly gratuitous), by-assassin, at which point Violet & Daisy catatonic despair. A bleak, if also closely the story for the most part stays focused on devolves into a sort of existential dialogue observed, portrait of emotional devastation, relationship gaffes and the family pressure in which the three characters reveal their this is optional, at best. (T. Fr y) Will is experiencing to seek “help” for his personal demons. Conversation alone isn’t sexuality. A low-key, tender tale of partners enough, of course, so Fletcher keeps inventing The To Do List HH trying to figure out how to stay together, this incidents—a trip to buy bullets, the arrival of Sony, 104 min., R, DVD: is recommended. (T. Keogh) another group of killers—to string out the $30.99, Blu-ray: $35.99 running-time. Despite its weaknesses, Violet What separates this com- Unhung Hero HH1/2 & Daisy is notable for featuring one of the last ing-of-age comedy about a Breaking Glass, 84 min., not performances by the late James Gandolfini as high school kid discovering rated, DVD: $19.99 the girls’ target, putting his hangdog manner sex from countless others is “I look like a big, dumb to use as the doomed, good-hearted lug—the that it is presented entirely idiot. People aren’t going very antithesis of Tony Soprano—who from the perspective of a teenage girl. Au- to take me seriously.” So actually bakes homemade cookies for his brey Plaza (Parks and Recreation) stars as class says Patrick Moote—aspir- guests. Unfortunately, Gandolfini’s turn is valedictorian Brandy, a straitlaced, somewhat ing actor/standup comic overshadowed by the absolute artificiality snooty, brainy girl who suddenly becomes in costume as a weiner—who embarks on a of the narrative. Not a necessary purchase. concerned by the fact that she has no experi- personal journey due to his professed small (F. Swietek) ence with boys or sex. With the help of her penis to explore whether “size matters.” best friends she makes a list of sexual experi- Patrick’s rejected marriage proposal on the With Love… From the ences to have during her before big screen at a UCLA basketball game is Age of Reason HHH heading off to college. Number one on the ascribed to his girlfriend being disgruntled First Run, 89 min., in French list is a dumb-blonde hunk (Scott Porter) who over his dimensions. In director Brian Spitz’s w/English subtitles, not rated, also works at the public pool where Brandy is Unhung Hero, Patrick delves into the $5 billion DVD: $24.95 employed. The To Do List is set in 1993, which penis-enhancement business (in which South Sophie Marceau delivers gives filmmaker Maggie Carey plenty of op- Korea currently predominates). Unsatisfied by a grand performance in portunity to have fun with the nostalgia of pills, pumps, and “jelqing” exercises, Patrick director Yann Samuell’s in- the age before Internet searches (Brandy has travels to investigate a Malaysian condom teresting dramedy, starring as high-powered to look up every sexual term she encounters manufacturer, a Korean sex theme-park, Tai- executive Margaret, who begins receiving in encyclopedias and dictionaries, which adds wanese penile martial-arts, and tribes in New letters that she wrote to herself as a child. to the comic confusion). While the female Guinea, all ostensibly tied to Patrick’s plight. The missives (coupled with drawings and perspective is refreshing, this is still a rather Some information is enlightening—phallus other creative materials)—all meant to one clumsy and not particularly clever adolescent length, says an anthropologist, is a modern day remind Margaret of the hope, magic, comedy without much insight into the joys, obsession stoked by porn and hype; in reality, and love that once defined her—were made complications, and expectations of sex. So our ancestors were much more concerned by little Margaret in anticipation of her heart despite a good supporting cast that includes about virility and fertility. But a lot of this hardening after years of scarcity and the loss , , Christopher Mintz- documentary comes across as schtick-y, and of her closest friend (played by Jonathan Zac- Plasse, Andy Samberg, and Donald Glover, even sex columnist/author Dan Savage voices caï as an adult). Michel Duchaussoy is golden with Connie Britton and Clark Gregg as Bran- skepticism about Moote’s movie project. Not as the aging notary who agreed to keep the dy’s parents, this is not a necessary purchase. surprisingly, the film features male-member letters for young Margaret decades ago and (S. Axmaker) nudity (not Patrick’s, however), but—surpris- then deliver them to her when the time was ingly—the legendary endowment of adult- right. His scenes with Marceau offer a striking Turtle Hill, Brooklyn film star John Holmes (inspiration for Boogie series of emotional contrasts, especially since HHH Nights) goes unmentioned. Given the offbeat Margaret has become a corporate shark who is Breaking Glass, 90 min., not topic, this should still be considered a strong almost in a state of amnesia regarding her rug- rated, DVD: $19.99 optional purchase. (C. Cassady) ged but whimsical youth. Also memorable are Written by its two lead performances by Marton Csokas as Margaret’s actors, Turtle Hill, Brooklyn is Violet & Daisy HH loving but alarmed husband, and Theirry a bittersweet dramedy about Cinedigm, 88 min., R, DVD: Hancisse as her long-suffering but funny a couple, Will (Brian W. $29.95, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: assistant. Besides Marceau, the other magi- $34.95 Seibert) and Mateo (Ricardo Valdez), who are cal aspect here is the special effects, which on the verge of either coming apart or grow- A pair of young women heighten the imaginative element resident ing closer on the day of Will’s 30th birthday. working as contract killers in all of those letters reminding Margaret to A large ensemble cast plays the principals’ in order to support their love herself. Recommended. (T. Keogh) friends and family, who arrive for a daylong taste for fun vacations and party, where various dramas play out while fashionable attire might sound like a good You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ guests sort through their own relationship premise for a cheeky movie. Certainly the Yet HH1/2 laundry. Fortunately, director Ryan Gielen opening sequence—in which Violet (Alexis Kino Lorber, 115 min., in is working with a bunch of good actors, who Bledel) and Daisy (), dressed French w/English subtitles, not keep the movie from turning soapy—bring- as pizza-delivering nuns, take out a gang of rated, DVD: $29.95 ing invention to the characters and keeping mobsters—boasts a certain flair. But writer- After wealthy and suc- the nonstop dialogue fresh. Although there is director Geoffrey Fletcher can’t sustain the cessful stage director An- an occasional hint of smugness to the script, idea in this film that quickly degenerates toine d’Anthac dies (very as Seibert and Valdez seize a couple of op- into a tedious talkathon centered on the girls’ likely a romantic suicide), his butler enacts portunities to make a political point (a scene next target, a sad-sack who has stolen mob his last wish by inviting troupers from featuring a politically conservative, Log Cabin money. It turns out that the potential victim d’Anthac’s past achievements (real-life thesps Republican gay man in a heated exchange is terminally ill and trying to commit suicide- of the Comédie Français portray themselves

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 33 VIDEO LIBRARIAN here, including and Hippolyte who survives a crash landing during Bergman, and an engrossing three-and-a-half Giradot) to watch a new video of d’Anthac’s a bombing raid. Taken prisoner by armed hour “making-of” documentary capturing greatest triumph: a modern-dress take-off Palestinians, Yoni meets 12-year-old Fahed scenes ranging from early rehearsals to on-set on Orpheus and Eurydice (the “Antoine (Abdallah El Akal), an orphan who faces the conflicts between the two Bergmans. Highly d’Anthac” piece is actually playwright Jean dangerous ostracism felt by all Palestinians recommended. (T. Fr y) Anouilh’s 1941 Eurydice). In veteran French in the city. Harboring a strong desire to see filmmaker Alain Resnais’s latest, this film- his late parents’ village again, Fahed frees The Best Years of Our within-the-film (done by another director Yoni in exchange for the latter’s help in get- Lives HHHH altogether, Bruno Podalydès) spurs the as- ting to his family’s original home. Zaytoun Fox, 170 min., not rated, Blu- sembled mourners to fall back into their old soon develops into a kind of buddy movie ray: $19.98 stage roles—sometimes with two of them with international consequences, especially Winner of seven Acad- essaying the very same part—in semi-disas- after Yoni—who becomes a father figure to emy Awards, including Best sociated scenes that seem to cross-reference young Fahed—brings the boy back with him Picture, Best Director, Best relationships to each other and with the to his military base. Escaping from a series Actor, and Best Screenplay, William Wyler’s mysterious d’Anthac, a master of “coupe of dire circumstances, the pair get to know brilliant drama about domestic life after de theatre.” Exceedingly handsome staging and care about each other on the journey. World War II remains one of the all-time and production values may mollify viewers Both Dorff and El Akal bring intensity to classics of American cinema. Inspired by a who might otherwise find this obtuse and their roles, balanced by bouts of mirth pictorial article about returning soldiers in unfathomable. An offbeat foreign film by and warmth, in this accessible drama from Life magazine, the story focuses on three war a legendary auteur, this is a strong optional director Eran Riklis that also sheds light veterans (, Dana Andrews, and purchase. (C. Cassady) on the misery of Beirut during that time, in unforgettable roles) and when a bright, urbane Lebanese downtown their rocky readjustment to civilian life in You’re Next HH1/2 was turned into the bombed-out blight of their Midwestern town of Boone City. Captur- Lionsgate, 94 min., R, DVD: the Palestinian quarter. Recommended. ing the contradictory moods of America in $19.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: (T. Keogh) the mid-to-late , this epic drama spans $24.99, Jan. 14 a complex range of emotions, from joyous cel- This satirical gory slasher ebration and happy reunion to deep-rooted combines a dysfunctional Classic Films ambivalence and reassessment of personal family reunion with the priorities. A movie milestone when it was first random violence of a home released in 1946, The Best Years of Our Lives invasion. It’s fortunate that Autumn Sonata still packs a with powerful, timeless Erin (Sharni Vinson), a resourceful teaching HHH1/2 themes. Bowing on Blu-ray with an excel- assistant, was raised in a survivalist com- Criterion, 93 min., in Swedish lent transfer, extras include interviews with pound in the Australian Outback, because w/English subtitles, not rated, costars Virginia Mayo and , she’s about to meet her boyfriend and former DVD: 2 discs, $29.95; Blu-ray: and an introduction by Mayo. Highly recom- $39.95 professor Crispian’s (AJ Bowen) squabbling mended. Editor’s Choice. (J. Shannon) Davison family and significant others, who Reflecting on Autumn are gathering to celebrate his parents’ 35th Sonata in a memoir written wedding anniversary at the latter’s posh, Eng- years later, filmmaker Ingmar Bergman real- The Big Combo HHH lish Tudor-style manor house. After a shock- Olive, 87 min., not rated, DVD: ized that some critics were probably right $19.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 ing prologue that introduces the masked in- in saying that this 1978 film was “Bergman truders, the Davison’s isolated country estate doing Bergman.” A wrenching and mag- Joseph H. Lewis was one is suddenly invaded by unknown attackers nificent mother-daughter portrait,Autumn of the most distinctive wearing weird animal masks and wielding Sonata stars , who brings low-budget stylists of the crossbows. What Crispian’s mother Aubrey glamour and authority to the role of Char- 1940s and ’50s, a filmmaker (Barbara Crampton), father Paul (Rob Moran), lotte, a famed pianist who all but abandoned who—at his best—was able sister Aimee (Amy Seimetz) and feuding daughters Eva () and Helena to overcome budgetary limitations and con- brothers Felix (Nicholas Tucci) and Drake (Joe (Lena Nyman) to pursue her career. After a ventional scripts with shadowy atmosphere, Swanberg) don’t realize is that their neighbors seven-year absence, Charlotte visits Eva and striking images, startling set-pieces, and have already been slaughtered…and, accord- superficialities quickly give way to terrible obsessive characters on the edge. This 1955 ing to the writing (in blood) on the wall, recriminations as the latter unleashes a tor- production brings film-noir style and attitude they’re next on the siege slate. Director Adam rent of resentment and outright hatred on to a crime drama starring Cornel Wilde as Lt. Wingard keeps the shocks coming, playing several painful topics, including the severely Leonard Diamond, a driven cop who hounds much of the inherent creepiness here for disabled Helena, who now lives with Eva and preening mobster Mr. Brown (Richard Conte), laughs, although the one-by-one elimination her husband, Viktor (Halvar Björk), after hav- the latter an arrogant kingpin who has made plot is utterly predictable. A strong optional ing been institutionalized by Charlotte. Sven chilly blonde debutante Susan Lowell (Jean purchase. (S. Granger) Nykvist’s exquisite cinematography relies on Wallace) his emotional slave. Brian Donlevy close-ups of faces twisted by emotion as the is Joe McClure, a Brown cohort with a hearing Zaytoun HHH director cuts deftly from the unflinching aid (a detail used in one of the picture’s dis- Strand, 110 min., in English, present to still-life memories of the past, tinctive torture scenes), while Hebrew & Arabic w/English all rendered in painterly compositions and and Earl Holliman are buddy-team hired kill- subtitles, not rated, DVD: burnished autumnal color schemes. Re-is- ers Fante and Mingo, who are also working for $27.99, Feb. 18 sued on DVD and bowing on Blu-ray, this Brown. Lewis turns the tale into a personal Set in 1982 Beirut, Leba- Criterion Collection release features extras battle between the obsessive lawman and non, during a cross-border including a 2003 introduction by Bergman, the megalomaniac criminal in an abstract conflict with Israel, Zay- audio commentary by Bergman expert Peter vision of big-city America that is created toun stars Stephen Dorff as Yoni, an Israeli Cowie, interviews with Ullmann and Ingrid from stock sets, slashes of light, and pools of

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 34 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 darkness—all courtesy of cinematographer is the eponymous giant pachyderm. Durante shadowy grace. Famed plas- extraordinaire John Alton, who helps create stars as circus owner Pop Wonder, with Day tic surgeon Dr. Génessier an austere, eerily empty yet simultaneously as his daughter, and force of nature Martha (Pierre Brasseur), wracked claustrophobic world that is drenched in Raye as Lulu the fortune teller, who wonders with guilt over disfiguring death and doom. Newly remastered for DVD whether marriage to Pop will ever be in her his once-lovely daughter, and bowing on Blu-ray, this fine film from future. costars as the hand- Christiane (Edith Scob), in a the late years of the noir era is recommended. some new arrival, sent by his father (Dean car wreck, lures young wom- (S. Axmaker) Jagger)—a rival circus owner—to undermine en to his secluded mansion the Wonder Circus. Even when I saw this as with the help of his mistress, Louise (Alida The Big Parade HHH1/2 a kid, I thought Boyd (Ben-Hur) was out of his Valli), in order to perform brutal, bloody Warner, 151 min., not rated, element in a musical comedy, but Durante, experiments upon them, sacrificing their DVD: $14.98, Blu-ray: $27.98 Day, and Raye are seasoned pros. Perhaps beauty and lives to restore Christiane’s face. An undisputed silent clas- not the greatest show on Earth (it bombed Christiane wanders like a lost fawn through sic, King Vidor’s 1925 World at the box office),Billy Rose’s Jumbo is still a the house, her scarred visage hidden behind a War I drama capturing the lot of fun, with some great songs—including blank mask that exposes only her sad, lonely horror and costs of war the Rodgers and Hart standards “This Can’t eyes, and as each attempted skin graft fails, stars John Gilbert as spoiled Be Love” and “The Most Beautiful Girl in the she slips further into despair and discon- American rich kid James Apperson, who World”—and fine vintage circus acts. Bowing nection. Franju employs Génessier’s sadistic sneers at service but joins up after witnessing on Blu-ray, extras include the 1953 Tom and undertakings to create an eerie poetry remi- the excitement of a recruitment parade. In Jerry cartoon “Jerry and Jumbo,” and the niscent of ’s fantasy imagery, a standard platoon-movie set-up, disparate 1933 Rodgers and Hart “Yours culminating in an astonishingly brutal yet characters from all walks of life go into basic Sincerely.” Recommended. (D. Liebenson) beautiful finale. Previously available on DVD, training and find camaraderie in their dreams Eyes Without a Face has been newly remastered of glory, with plenty of romantic competition David Copperfield and debuts on Blu-ray, with extras including for a French peasant girl named Melisande HHH1/2 Franju’s 1949 short documentary “Blood of (Renée Adorée), and lots of slapstick gags. The Warner, 131 min., not rated, the Beasts” (looking at Paris slaughterhouses), tone changes, however, once they’re sent to DVD: $21.48 new and archival interviews, excerpts from a the frontlines in France, a no-man’s land of ’ sprawl- 1985 documentary on the film’s screenwrit- snipers, machine gun nests, and a bombed- ing, semi-autobiographical ers (Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac), out moonscape of mud and trenches and novel was squeezed into this and a booklet with essays. Recommended. fallen dead. Vidor’s direction is sophisticated vivid and handsome 1935 (S. Axmaker) and visually rich, with delicate portraits of MGM production. Produced by David O. romantic hope countered with harrowing Selznick and directed by , the The Fly HHH images of death and destruction. Although tale follows David from birth and boyhood Fox, 94 min., not rated, Blu- Vidor leans on humor and even rewards view- (played by child star ) to ray: $24.99 ers with an uncomplicated happy ending, The his becoming a young man (Frank Lawton). The 1958 original version Big Parade is the first anti-war masterpiece of Some scenes from the source were necessar- of The Fly serves up a mix of American cinema. Featuring a strong score ily cut, but the film is largely faithful and is science fiction and monster compiled and conducted by Carl Davis, this brought to life with distinctive performances movie, framed by the do- hugely popular film was the top-grossing (the boast of a “star cast of 65 players” is only mestic drama of a happy family shattered silent motion picture of the era. Debuting a slight exaggeration). Not so much star-stud- by reckless experimentation. David Hedison on DVD and Blu-ray with a luminous transfer ded as well-populated from the deepest pool stars as Andre Delambre, an obsessive scien- from a restored print, extras include audio of Hollywood studio character actors, David tist who creates a matter-transference device commentary by film historian Jeffrey Vance, Copperfield features Edna May Oliver as the and tests it on himself, resulting in a swap archival audio clips of Vidor, and a vintage eccentric but generous Aunt Betsey; Basil of body parts with an insect trapped in the studio tour. Packaged in a digi-book with Rathbone as David’s cold, stern stepfather; machine. Directed by Kurt Neumann and notes, stills, art, and advertising material, this and Roland Young (usually cast in comic roles) presented largely in flashback, the film looks is highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) as the obsequious villain Uriah Heep; as well lavish thanks to the CinemaScope widescreen as supporting turns by , color format. The monster makeup is hidden Billy Rose’s Jumbo Elsa Lanchester, Lewis Stone, and Maureen for most of the running time, but then slowly HHH O’Sullivan. The most inspired casting here is revealed in shock scenes that send Delambre’s Warner, 127 min., not rated, W.C. Fields, who is marvelous as the hearty wife, Helene (Patricia Owens), off screaming. Blu-ray: $21.99 and loyal Micawber, a far cry from the sly, But there are other startling moments, includ- This 1962 musical ex- sour curmudgeon that Fields was famous for ing an inspired fly’s-eye-view kaleidoscope travaganza, perhaps best playing in his comedies. Previously available shot, and the metal-press insecticide that remembered for Jimmy on DVD in a boxed set—long out of print—it’s opens the film with a bloody splash. The Durante’s signature “What elephant?” gag now part of the Warner Archive manufacture- focus, however, is on the ordeal of Helene, (and for being referenced in John Kennedy on-demand collection, with extras including who goes on a mad hunt for the part-human Toole’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1980 novel A two vintage shorts and a classic cartoon. fly that has escaped Andre’s lab. Vincent Price Confederacy of Dunces) marked the end of an Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) costars as the loyal brother-in-law dedicated era. It was ’s last musical, Durante’s to looking after Helene and her son, and Her- final leading screen role, and Busby Berkeley’s Eyes Without a Face HHH Marshall is the police inspector. The Fly swan song as a film choreographer. Based on Criterion, 90 min., in French w/English subtitles, has aged, of course, and some of the dialogue the 1935 Broadway musical (in which Du- not rated, Blu-ray: $39.95 (scripted by future bestselling novelist James rante also starred), Billy Rose’s Jumbo centers Georges Franju’s perverse 1959 French Clavell) is stilted and silly, but it’s one of the on the misfortunes of the financially strug- horror film is at once lyrical, haunting, and more creative examples of sci-fi horror gling Wonder Circus, whose main attraction deviant—an elegant classic of sadism and and an iconic genre film of the era. Debuting

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 36 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 on Blu-ray, extras include audio commentary for Mexico. One of the best low-budget film up with gangsters, as the husband is being with Hedison and film historian David Del noirs of the era, and the only classic of the sent to the gallows for a murder he didn’t Valle, a retrospective , a Biography genre directed by a woman, The Hitch-Hiker commit. The thread then weaves back to the episode on Price, and a Fox Movietone News slipped into the public domain years ago, St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre —a vicious short. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) resulting in numerous poor-quality releases act of religious persecution in 16th-century over the decades on tape and disc. This edi- France—then moves on to the story of Christ, High Plains Drifter tion, mastered from an archival 35mm print and finally unspools a lavish tale involving enlightened royalty, scheming priests, and a HHH1/2 from the , shows minor Universal, 105 min., R, Blu-ray: damage but is otherwise a major improve- poor Mountain Girl (Constance Talmadge) $19.98 ment and is now the definitive home-video in ancient Babylon. This last sequence is the ’s second presentation. Extras include an image gallery. most spectacular, with monumental staging, film as a director (and his Recommended. (S. Axmaker) live elephants, and a dynamic camera that at first Western) offers a varia- one point swoops through the entire set. An tion on the “Man with No Name” theme, HHH image of a serene Eternal Mother (Lillian Gish) starring Eastwood as a drifter known only as Criterion, 77 min., not rated, frames the four tales, and Griffith’s finale in- “the Stranger,” who rides into the desert town DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 tercuts the climactic scenes from all of them. of Lago and is quickly attacked by three gun- René Clair’s sexy Ameri- Although a flop with audiences, Intolerance men. Recovering with the aid of a local little can rom-com ghost story is features images of incredible beauty coupled person (a memorable role for Billy Curtis), the a delightful and deftly made with moments of heartfelt drama, all pulled Stranger is hired by the intimidated townsfolk 1942 trifle with Veronica together by sophisticated editing, and backed to fend off a band of violent ex-convicts. Lake at her best as Jennifer, by a fine score composed and conducted by After teaching the citizens self-defense and a 17th-century witch who’s resurrected hun- Carl Davis. Re-released on DVD and bowing instructing them to paint the entire town red dreds of years after being burned alive by the on Blu-ray in a superior edition mastered from and rename it “Hell,” the Stranger vanishes, Puritans. Jennifer’s released spirit (visualized film historian Kevin Brownlow’s restoration. but reappears when the marauding criminals as a plume of smoke) finds a comely body and extras include the feature-length versions arrive, delivering justice while also teaching decides to wreak havoc on the life of guber- of two segments that Griffith re-edited for the townsfolk a harsh lesson about moral natorial candidate Wallace Wooley (Fredric separate release years later, an interview obligation. Is the Stranger a figure from their March)—descendent of Jonathan Wooley with Brownlow, and a booklet. A landmark past or a kind of supernatural avenger? Com- (also played by March), the man who sent , this is highly recommended. bining humor with action, 1973’s High Plains her to the stake—on the eve of his impending (S. Axmaker) Drifter is simultaneously both a serious and marriage to the hard, cold, spiteful Estelle (Su- tongue-in-cheek tribute to the Westerns that san Hayward). When Jennifer’s love potion : made Eastwood a household name. Shining backfires, however, she finds herself falling in Ultimate on Blu-ray—albeit with only a trailer as a love with the mortal. For all of the playful Collector’s Edition supplement—this is highly recommended. fantasy and cheekiness, there’s also an un- HHHH expected gallows humor running beneath (J. Shannon) Warner, 7 discs, 429 the energetic comedy and rapid-fire gags, as min., G/PG/PG-13, Blu- The Hitch-Hiker HHH well as a very adult sensibility to Jennifer’s ray: $99.98 Kino, 71 min., not rated, DVD: flirtations. had a hand in Hollywood legend James Dean (1931-1955) $24.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 the production, but it’s the light touch and only made three films during his tragically Actress Ida Lupino was continental maturity of French director short career, all for Warner Bros., and de- one of the only women Clair that stir the ingredients into such a buting on Blu-ray in this handsome boxed directing American mov- piquant cocktail. A beloved minor classic, I set. Dean burst onto the silver screen with ies in the 1940s and ’50s, Married a Witch finally debuts on DVD and ’s superb 1955 adaptation of John and this independent 1953 Blu-ray with a strong image (despite some Steinbeck’s East of Eden, an update of the production—inspired by the true story of an brief sections with print damage), and extras Cain and Abel story. The Oscar-nominated escaped killer who murdered his way down including an archival audio radio interview Dean plays Cal Trask, a moody, neurotic, let- the West Coast—takes her into a distinc- with Clair, and a booklet. Recommended. tuce farmer’s son, who vies with his virtuous tively masculine thriller world. (S. Axmaker) brother, Aron (Dick Davalos), for the favor of Roy Collins (Edmond O’Brien) and Gilbert their father, Adam (Raymond Massey). But Bowen (Frank Lovejoy) are married men on Intolerance HHH1/2 Dean’s most iconic role would come later the a fishing vacation that detours into Tijuana, Cohen, 2 discs, 168 min., not same year with his iconic Oscar-nominated where they end up in a hostage situation af- rated, DVD: $39.98, Blu-ray: performance as a troubled misunderstood ter fugitive convict Emmett Myers (William $49.98 teen named Jim who winds up in a standoff Talman—most famous for playing Hamilton D.W. Griffith’s 1916 fol- with the law in Nicholas Ray’s 1955 Rebel Burger to Raymond Burr’s Perry Mason) low-up to Birth of a Nation Without a Cause, which costarred hitches a ride and forces them to drive him serves up a diatribe against and Natalie Wood (all three leads would to the Gulf Coast. O’Brien and Lovejoy are prejudice that spans centu- meet untimely deaths: Dean in a car crash, convincing as middle-class guys in a night- ries and continents in a quartet of stories from Mineo murdered, and Wood drowning in a marish situation, and Talman is intimidating different epochs that form an intertwined mystery-shrouded boating accident). Dean’s as a psychotic killer with a sadistic sense of narrative even more ambitious than its last film—and final Academy Award nomina- humor and a scarred eyelid that never fully influential (and controversial) antecedent. tion—was ’ 1956 Giant, based closes—even when he’s asleep. The result is Populated by characters with names such on ’s tri-generational epic novel a sweaty, lean thriller that plays out almost as “Boy” (Robert Harron), “Dear One” (Mae chronicling the volatile relationship between entirely on desolate dirt roads and dusty Marsh), and “Musketeer of the Slums” (Walter Bick Benedict (), representing rural highways, with California’s striking, Long), Intolerance begins with the modern the old Texas of immense cattle ranches; Jett boulder-strewn Alabama Hills standing in story of a young couple in hard times caught Rink (Dean)—the original JR—personifying

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 37 VIDEO LIBRARIAN the new Texas shaped by oil money; and social goddess Addie Ross, who informs her Walter Lang’s 1951 Tech- the woman loved by both men, Benedict’s “dearest friends” that she is leaving town nicolor production features wife from the East, Leslie (). in the company of one of their husbands. in the dual role Sporting fine transfers, extras across the discs Each reflects on their own marriage, trying previously assumed by Mau- include audio commentaries, documentaries, to determine if their mate might be the one. rice Chevalier (in Folies) and behind-the-scenes featurettes, interviews, de- Deborah (Jeanne Crain) is a young Navy wife (in Rio). Kaye’s leted scenes, screen and wardrobe tests, and who feels out of place with her upwardly mo- Jack Martin is an American more. Although all three titles are available bile husband’s social set. Rita (Ann Sothern) is song-and-dance man based separately on Blu-ray, this set features two a successful writer for radio who earns more in Monte Carlo. When playboy aviator Henri exclusive bonus documentaries—James Dean: than her schoolteacher spouse (). Duran (Kaye with a French accent) returns Forever Young (narrated by Martin Sheen) Lora May (Linda Darnell) is a girl literally from his latest adventure, Martin notices his and the American Masters entry James Dean: from the wrong side of the tracks who lands own uncanny resemblance to Duran—and Sense Memories—as well as a commemorative a store tycoon (Paul Douglas at his gruffest), takes note of Duran’s neglected wife, Lili photo book. Highly recommended. Editor’s but he’s convinced she’s a gold-digger. The (). After Duran is called away Choice. (R. Pitman) flashbacks are by turns melodramatic, clever, on business, Martin accepts an invitation to acerbically witty (anticipating Mankiewicz’s impersonate him for an important function, La Cage aux Folles the following year), and even which gives him the chance to cozy up to HHH1/2 blatantly comic. Bowing on Blu-ray with a Lili—and infuriate his dance partner, Colette Criterion, 96 min., in French sparkling black-and-white transfer, extras (Corinne Calvet). Duran pays him back with w/English subtitles, R, DVD: include audio commentary (by Mankiewicz an impersonation of his own. While it’s not $29.95, Blu-ray: $39.95 biographers Kenneth Geist and Cheryl Lower, Twelfth Night, On the Riviera is an enjoyable The surprise global art along with the director’s son, Christopher diversion, as well as a , since house hit of 1978, this zesty Mankiewicz), a Biography episode devoted to designer Oleg Cassini outfitted wife Tierney, French-Italian coproduc- Darnell, and Fox Movietone newsreel footage and Sylvia Fine penned tunes for husband tion was one of the first films to portray gay of Oscar night, when the film won for Best Kaye (except for the standard “Ballin’ the characters in a positive, upbeat light. A Director and Best Screenplay. Highly recom- Jack”). Look sharp for future Bob Fosse hoofer farce in the classical tradition, La Cage aux mended. (D. Liebenson) (and wife) Gwen Verdon as a dancer and Folles was based on a popular and critically Tierney’s famous portrait from Laura above acclaimed stage play, and went on to inspire Lion of the Desert HH Duran’s fireplace. Although considered a two film sequels, a Broadway musical, and Anchor Bay, 174 min., PG, Blu- minor effort in the Kaye canon—the musical Mike Nichols’ 1996 American remake The ray: $19.99 was more of an audience favorite than a criti- Birdcage, starring and Nathan Destined to remain a cal darling—this engaging film (released as Lane. Directed by the late Edouard Molinaro, dubious footnote in movie part of a celebration of the 100th anniversary the original film is a decidedly more natural, trivia books, this occasion- of Kaye’s birth) makes a welcome debut on low-key affair, but it still delivers abundant ally impressive 1980 epic Blu-ray, with a retrospective featurette and laughs. The fun begins when nightclub was financed with a budget of $35 million profiles of Kaye and choreographer Jack Cole. owner Renato (Ugo Tognazzi) and his - by Libyan dictator Muammar Qaddafi, who Recommended. (K. Fennessy) queen partner Albin () agree previously attempted the role of movie pro- to pretend to be a straight couple for Renato’s ducer with the critically roasted 1977 film Othello HHH1/2 son (from a previous relationship) when the Mohammad, Messenger of God (also newly Kultur, 159 min., not rated, latter introduces them to the prim parents available on Blu-ray). Lion of the Desert didn’t DVD: $19.99 of his fiancée. As played by Serrault (who fare much better (grossing approximately $1 It isn’t quite complete— originated the role on stage), Albin is the million worldwide), and while some of its the second scene of Act II is quintessential drama queen, but his sensitive wartime action sequences are intelligently omitted—and Stuart Burge’s nature (along with Renato’s love for his son) filmed, the movie is more notable for its direction makes no effort gives La Cage aux Folles the heart and soul that bad acting. Under a shaggy Muslim beard, to disguise its origin on the have kept the story so popular. The bright Anthony Quinn stars as Omar Mukhtar, the stage of Britain’s National Theatre, but this pastel-and-neon color palette shines on the Arab hero and guerilla fighter who defended 1965 film of Shakespeare’s tragedy about the restored digital transfer for Criterion’s new Libya against Benito Mussolini and Italy’s at- titular jealous Moor, who the malevolent Iago Blu-ray and DVD editions, which also feature tempted conquests during World War II. As manipulates into murdering his faithful wife, excellent sound for the light and bubbly straightforward biography, the movie boasts Desdemona, is nonetheless a classic (rarely score by Ennio Morricone. Extras include an admirable epic sweep, but a cliché-ridden has the text been acted with greater clarity new interviews with Molinaro and Laurence script and uniformly terrible performances and power). Nabbing numerous Oscar and Senelick (author of The Changing Room: Sex, (from a cast that includes , Oliver Golden Globe nominations, this Othello is Drag and Theatre), archival clips from the Reed, and ) make this little more also a controversial production: some viewers original stage play, and a booklet featuring an than a curiosity. Presented with a lackluster consider ’s blackface makeup essay by film critic David Ehrenstein. Highly Blu-ray transfer that is not even in the original in the title role to be offensive (Bosley recommended. (J. Shannon) 2:39:1 aspect ratio, the running time on this Crowther, then film critic of theNew York extras-less release is 173 minutes, not the 156 Times, called it a minstrel show version of A Letter to Three Wives minutes listed on the jacket (and this is still the play). Regardless, Olivier delivers a bril- HHH1/2 well short of the full-length 206-minute ver- liant performance, a tour de force of irresistible Fox, 103 min., not rated, Blu- sion). Optional, at best. (J. Shannon) magnetism and passion, while also bringing ray: $24.99 out the best in his colleagues, especially Frank In Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s On the Riviera HHH Finlay, whose Iago is a masterpiece of quiet Oscar-winning 1949 classic, Fox, 90 min., not rated, Blu-ray: $24.99 menace and cunning. The young Maggie three women are the joint Inspired by Roy Del Ruth’s Folies Bergère de Smith makes a resplendent Desdemona and recipients of a letter from neighborhood Paris and Irving Cummings’ That Night in Rio, a virile Cassio, with the rest of

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 38 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 the cast providing strong support. DVD extras Schaefer—today plays more like myth, the DVD and Blu-ray editions, with extras in- include brief excerpts from an interview with story of an outsider who envies the lifestyle cluding a featurette with Leigh biographer , who recounts his memo- of the good people he defends, but also Anne Edwards, and a booklet. While none ries of Olivier and the National Theatre. knows that his reputation with a gun will of these films are outright classics, this is a Highly recommended. (F. Swietek) never truly allow him to become a part of nice set that shows a different side of Leigh. their community. Nabbing six Academy Recommended. (S. Axmaker) Shack Out on 101 HH1/2 Award nominations (including Best Pic- Olive, 73 min., not rated, DVD: ture and Director, and winning for Best Wild Style: 30th $24.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 Cinematography), Shane bows on Blu-ray in Anniversary Edition Director Edward Dein’s a sparkling transfer, with extras including HHH audio commentary by George Stevens, Jr. low-budget film noir, set Music Box, 2 discs, 82 min., R, almost entirely in a dumpy and associate producer Ivan Moffat. Highly DVD: $29.95 recommended. (R. Pitman) diner on a lonely stretch This 1983 indie, shot of the California coast, on the streets of New York represents one of the oddest collisions of B- The by Charlie Ahearn with movie crime and Cold War anti-communist Anniversary Collection real-life personalities from the world of art paranoia of the 1950s. receives HHH and music in the leading roles, serves up a top billing as a waitress named Kotty, Cohen, 2 discs, 339 min., not time capsule look at the urban and stolid second-rate Frank rated, DVD: $49.98, Blu-ray: of the South Bronx. A scruffy narrative Lovejoy is Professor Sam Bastion, a nuclear $59.98 about a graffiti artist named Raymond physicist at a local college who hangs out at Before becoming inter- “Zoro” (“Lee” George Quinones), who is on the seaside café—splitting his time between nationally famous for play- the verge of a mainstream breakthrough, dating Kotty, gabbing with owner George ing Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind, is interwoven amidst scenes of club per- (Keenan Wynn), and swapping seashells Vivien Leigh was a rising star in Britain, formances, playground rap battles (while with a short-order cook nicknamed Slob and this set collects the four British films the competitors are playing basketball, no (), whose easygoing manner can she made before going to Hollywood. Fire less!), outbursts of breakdancing, and a slip into nasty threats (a scene with George Over (1937), an Elizabethan spy finale featuring an outdoor concert. Among and Slob clearing the tables to pump iron drama set during the time when Spain was the pre-fame hip-hop icons featured here and compare pecs is one of the weirdest preparing to attack Britain with the Spanish are Fab 5 Freddy, Grandmaster Flash, the interludes in American film). The narra- Armada, cast Leigh in her first major role, Cold Crush Brothers, Chief Rocker Busy tive plays out like a bizarre stage play, with as Cynthia, a lady-in-waiting to Queen Bee, and the Rock Steady Crew, as well as characters gathering in the greasy spoon Elizabeth I (Flora Robson) and lover of loyal graffiti artist Sandra “Pink” Fabara and to banter and lob insults and cracks before naval officer Michael Ingolby (Laurence 1980s underground personality Patti As- getting down to the business of stealing Olivier, whom Leigh later married). James tor as a Village Voice reporter. While not secrets for a spy network. And when a har- Wong Howe photographs director William particularly well acted, the film nonethe- poon gun is introduced, you know it’s going K. Howard’s visually impressive production, less boasts an authenticity that keeps it to be used on someone before the credits which costars Raymond Massey and James buoyant and engaging. Viewers will see roll. The offbeat humor, unusual character Mason. Leigh transforms from wide-eyed early performances by some of the most in- twists, and strange romantic dynamics (all innocent to cagey professional as double fluential artists of what was then a culture three men make a play for Kotty, who fends agent Madeleine Goddard in Dark Journey in its infancy, and while it’s technically for herself pretty well) elevate this above (1937), a World War I espionage thriller not a documentary, the historical record the level of ordinary Red Scare polemic. A directed by Victor Saville and costarring it preserves makes it an important visual minor cult oddity featuring fine cinematog- Conrad Veidt as Baron Karl Von Marwitz, document—and invaluable addition to raphy by Oscar-winner Floyd Crosby, this a German operative who falls in love with any collection of urban American and hip- is recommended. (S. Axmaker) her. Leigh appears with in the hop history. This new 30th-anniversary 1937 comedy Storm in a Teacup, helmed by edition DVD features audio commentary Shane HHH1/2 Ian Dalrymple and Saville, about a minor by Ahearn, an anniversary reunion, vari- Paramount, 118 min., not scandal that becomes a press sensation, ous artist interviews, an expanded photo rated, Blu-ray: $19.98 with Harrison playing reporter Frank Bur- gallery, and a booklet. Recommended. Director George Ste- don and Leigh as Vickie, the daughter of the (S. Axmaker) vens’ 1953 Shane, one of politician (Cecil Parker) at the center of the cinema’s all-time classic turmoil. Finally, filmmaker Tim Whelan’s Westerns, stars 1938 St. Martin’s Lane (aka Sidewalks of Lon- as the titular gunfighter, a don) is a rags-to-riches tale starring Charles Online drifter who assists a group of homestead- Laughton as busker Charles Staggers, who Visit Video Librarian Online (www. ers in fending off a land-hungry rancher. takes street urchin Libby (Leigh) under his videolibrarian.com) during January Shane enters the lives of the Starrett fam- wing, after which Harrison’s theater im- and February for DVD/Blu-ray-specific ily—husband Joe (Van Heflin), wife Marian presario Harley Prentiss plucks her off the comments added to the current video (Jean Arthur), and son Joey (Brandon De streets and onto the stage. Leigh’s cockney movies reviewed here, as well as new Wilde), who idolizes him—initially help- accent here is unconvincing at best, but reviews, including Afternoon Delight, All ing out with chores and later becoming her sassy performance is dynamic, and Is Lost, Austenland, Baggage Claim, Cloudy more involved in the local fight, especially she’s entrancing as the dancing dreamer, With a Chance of Meatballs 2, Don Jon, after the rancher brings in a hired gun theatrical ingénue, and—finally—confident Fruitvale Station, Inequality for All, Last (). Once lauded for its realism star managing the press and her fans with Love, Machete Kills, Riddick, Rush, Samson (a scene with agitated animals during a utter professionalism. All four films are & Delilah, The Spectacular Now, Sunlight Jr., dust-up between Joe and Shane is still quite remastered from archival 35mm materials Thanks for Sharing, and much more! powerful), Shane—based on a novel by Jack from the for these

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 40 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 TV on Video

2 Broke Girls: The () goes undercover to report Hamilton (Ashley Rickards) Complete Second on Briarcliff’s horrific conditions. The jour- isn’t exactly a nerd, but she nalist winds up discovering more than she isn’t shallow enough to fit Season HH1/2 bargained for, including a former Nazi doc- in with the popular crowd Warner, 3 discs, 513 min., not rated, DVD: $44.98 tor (James Cromwell) performing heinous either. Jenna’s desire for vis- surgeries in Briarcliff’s dank, secret cellar ibility gains traction when The second season of with the help of a demonically possessed nun she hooks up with Matty CBS’s popular sitcom finds (Lily Rabe); a black-winged angel of death (Beau Mirchoff), her crush struggling roommates and (Frances Conroy); and a new patient (Evan object, only to discover that BFFs Max (Kat Dennings) and Caroline Peters) who may or may not be the hideous he isn’t interested in dating—although they (Beth Behrs) continuing on course as sexpot psychopath known only as “Bloody Face.” continue to see each other in private. Then waitresses who sling dialogue that is rife Also featuring returning first-season costars Jenna trips and breaks her arm, resulting in with innuendo and blatant double enten- Joseph Fiennes and Zachary Quinto, Ameri- an oddly positioned cast and rumors that she dres. White co-workers at a Brooklyn diner can Horror Story—Asylum serves up plenty was trying to kill herself, but best friends Ta- owned by Korean man-child Han (Matthew of sick, twisted surprises paired with deep, mara (Jillian Rose Reed) and Ming (Jessica Lu) Moy)—with elderly black cashier Earl (Garrett dark humor. Presenting all 13 episodes from know otherwise. The humiliations continue Morris), and perverted Ukrainian cook Oleg the 2012-13 second season, extras include by way of a jealous cheerleader, Sadie (Molly (Jonathan Kite) thrown into the mix—the behind-the-scenes featurettes and deleted Tarlov), who covets Matty but whose plans girls have a dream of opening a cupcake scenes. Recommended. (J. Shannon) tend to backfire, especially since Jenna gains boutique that finally becomes a reality (sort more confidence each time she has to stand of). Doubling down on the ribald humor and Arrow: The Complete up for herself. Jenna also catches the eye of ethnic stereotyping, the show also features Matty’s friend, Jake (Brett Davern), who finds Jennifer Coolidge as Sophie, a dopey Polish First Season HHH Warner, 972 min., not rated, her easier to talk to than his bubble-headed nymphomaniac who hooks up with Oleg. girlfriend, Lissa (Greer Grammer). If Jenna’s Co-creator Michael Patrick King ( DVD: 5 discs, $59.98; Blu-ray/ Sex and the DVD Combo: 9 discs, $69.98. mother (Nikki Deloach) and guidance coun- City) has thumbed his nose at critics by bring- selor (Desi Lydic) aren’t much help in navigat- ing what he calls “high lowbrow humor” to The CW fills in the space vacated by Smallville with ing these issues, her father (Mike Faiola) offers the sitcom stage, and the results are pretty some good advice. Compiling all 24 episodes much love-it-or-hate-it. Episodes follow Max this new take on another DC comic book superhero: Green Arrow. While from the 2011-12 first and second seasons, and Caroline as they do whatever it takes to this is recommended. (K. Fennessy) become entrepreneurs, including romanc- maintaining the basics—a rich guy becomes ing new and old boyfriends, working extra a vigilante, fighting urban crime with bow jobs, and tolerating or baiting those around and arrow—this series sets up an origin story Beauty & the Beast: The them. Fans will have a lot to enjoy, starting (part Robinson Crusoe and part Hunger Games First Season HH1/2 with Dennings’ fine turn as an insecure, that plays out in flashbacks over the course Paramount, 6 discs, 923 min., voluptuous smart-ass, and the always reliable of the season) that finds once-spoiled rich not rated, DVD: $49.99 Coolidge, who nails ditzy. Compiling all 24 kid Oliver Queen (Stephen Amell) becoming CBS’s youth-oriented re- episodes from 2012–13, DVD extras include seasoned by ordeal into a warrior. Arrow is make/update of the George a behind-the-scenes featurette, a character kind of a junior Batman, working in a city R.R. Martin-scripted 1987- profile, deleted scenes, a panel discussion that is just as corrupt as Gotham City, play- 1990 cult TV fantasy series with King and the cast, and a gag reel. A ing the playboy for his family, friends, and with Ron Perlman and strong optional purchase. (T. Fr y) the media in order to hide his true mission could also have been titled Supermodel and to right his father’s wrongs, which includea the Beast (or, to be precise, Supermodel and American Horror conspiracy of millionaires aiming to clean the Male Supermodel). Set in a New York up their city on their own unforgiving terms. City where scarcely anyone seems to be Story—Asylum: The Queen even opens a nightclub as a cover over the age of 25, the show stars Krisin Complete Second for his identity and his secret lair (hidden Kreuk as Catherine Chandler, a gorgeous Season HHH1/2 beneath, Batcave-style). In keeping with the police detective who hooks up with hand- Fox, 553 min., not rated, DVD: network’s young adult demographic, Arrow is some Vincent (), the last known 4 discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 dominated by attractive twentysomethings in survivor of an Afghan War experiment discs, $59.98 cool costumes and sleek fashions engaged in gone amok—to create a genetic super-soldier Rather than keep the plenty of romantic tangles, but it’s also a lot with spliced-in animal DNA. Vincent now same characters and settings from season to darker than Smallville; Arrow kills his enemies hides out in the NYC shadows, freelancing season, series creators Brad Falchuk and Ryan in the early episodes and dishes out much as a superhero, becoming—in moments Murphy have retained several members of collateral damage during his crime-fighting of stress—an uncontrollable Incredible the first-season cast (especially Emmy-win- escapades. Presenting all 23 episodes from the Hunk. Together the pair solve some big- ner Jessica Lange) but dropped them into an 2012-13 debut season, extras include behind- city mysteries and negotiate the pitfalls all-new, all-American horror story with new the-scenes featurettes, a cast and crew Q&A, of a paranormal relationship, whilst the roles. Whereas the first season focused on a deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Recommended. malevolent shadow-government military- present-day family struggling in a notori- (S. Axmaker) industrial conspiracy that created Vincent ously haunted “murder house,” the second lurks in the background—along with lots season opts for a classically gothic setting: Awkward: Seasons 1 & 2 HHH of mopey alt-rock music. Replacing the the Briarcliff home for the criminally insane, Paramount, 4 discs, 528 min., not rated, DVD: urban fairy-tale vibe of the original with a former tuberculosis ward where 46,000 $26.98 more of a Twilight-meets-CSI ambiance, people died before it was sold to the Catholic MTV’s compulsively watchable Awkward this chimerical saga is more or less passable Church in 1962. It is here, two years later, recounts the misadventures of a 15-year-old pop-escapism. Presenting all 22 episodes that Sister Jude (Lange) rules with an iron California girl longing to be noticed, who from the 2012-13 debut run, extras include fist, especially when an ambitious reporter narrates each episode as a post. Jenna pilot-episode audio commentary, behind-

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 41 VIDEO LIBRARIAN the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, untouched by Walt’s actions (a major theme the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, and and a gag reel. A strong optional purchase. of the series). Cranston won the a gag reel. A strong optional purchase. (C. Cassady) Emmy three times and while the acclaim is (S. Axmaker) well-deserved, it’s not just because he created Bones: The Complete the most quietly intimidating character on : Season Twelve TV. The rationalizations that have accompa- Eighth Season HH1/2 HHH Fox, 1,039 min., not rated, nied every step of his transformation over Echo Bridge, 3 discs, 960 min., DVD: 6 discs, $59.98; Blu-ray: the five seasons stem from an underlying not rated, DVD: $19.99 5 discs, $69.99 arrogance and cruelty that has been there Featuring 38 episodes The eighth season of from the start—albeit buried under self-pity (mostly two-parters), this this long-running crime and bitterness—and these attributes drive 2012-13 12th season from procedural starring Emily his final quest for revenge and one last stab the long-running Canadian Deschanel as socially awkward but brilliant at redemption. Finally earning the elusive series starts off with “Come As You Are,” in forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, this which the students of Degrassi Community “Bones” Brennan and as 2013 second half of the fifth season boasts School are thrilled after Principal Simpson FBI agent Seeley Booth opens with Brennan extras including audio commentaries, be- (Stefan Brogren, a Degrassi alumni since in hiding, framed by genius serial killer hind-the-scenes featurettes, an alternate 1987) decides they no longer have to wear Christopher Pelant (Andrew ), and ends ending, deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Highly uniforms. But that’s about the most ordinary with Pelant still at large on a personal mis- recommended. (S. Axmaker) thing that happens this season, which fea- sion to make the lives of Brennan and Booth tures storylines incorporating love triangles, miserable. The crime-solving partners are Defiance: Season One a gay school play version of Romeo and Juliet, now living together (but unmarried) and are HH1/2 cheating, health issues, inappropriate bosses, the parents of a baby girl, and between bouts Universal, 3 discs, 558 min., suicide, drugs, screwed up parents…and even with Pelant, they fall back into their familiar not rated, DVD: $59.98, Blu- schoolwork. This season also includes two crime-scene camaraderie. The rest of the ray: $69.98 hour-long specials: “Las Vegas,” where Drew “squint” team returns as well—Tamara Taylor Syfy’s most ambitious and Bianca (Luke Bilyk and Alicia Josipovic) as veteran coroner Cam, Michaela Conlin original series in a long travel with pals to get married and are in- as resident artist Angela, and T.J. Thyne as time is set in 2046, follow- volved in a cheesy Elvis musical number; and bugs-and-slime specialist Hodgins. And psy- ing an alien attack that destroyed Earth’s the graduation finale “The Time of My Life.” chologist and profiler Dr. Sweets (John Francis cities and seeded it with plants and animals Although this is sure to be popular with the Daley) even moves in with the couple after of extraterrestrial origin. Survival now target audience, as a longtime franchise fan he breaks up with his girlfriend. The series depends on coexistence with the invaders, I can’t help but notice that the makers seem has earned its popularity with its solid mix who are all from races that have fled their to be running out of realistic steam. Guest of science-speak, eccentric personalities, and own dying planet—leading to a collision star Chaz Bono helps a transgendered student humor, and this set continues to play with of cultures that can be combustible. The with girl trouble? Someone’s dad with early the formula, with undercover assignments at narrative plays out more as a futuristic onset dementia runs over the family dog? A a dance competition and a roller derby league. Western, complete with rakish cowboy law- top scholar who developed a breast cancer Plus, fans will finally hear the long-awaited man Nolan (Grant Bowler) and his adopted breathalyzer and earned a scholarship to MIT marriage proposal. Compiling all 24 episodes alien daughter, Irisa (Stephanie Leonidas), but can’t remember to take birth control? from the 2012–13 season, extras include who give up their wandering ways to stake Seven brunette males with the same haircut? episode commentaries, behind-the-scenes out a place in the titular frontier mining Maybe it’s me, or maybe it’s time for class to featurettes, deleted scenes, and a gag reel. A town that was once St. Louis (the damaged be dismissed. DVD extras include an episode strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) arch still rises over the land, providing a commentary, a 300th episode celebration, distinctive visual signature). The tribalism “making-of” featurettes, bloopers, and more. : The Final of the various populations isn’t that much Recommended, overall. (J. Williams-Wood) Season HHH1/2 different from real-life urban melting Sony, 385 min., DVD: 3 discs, pots—varying individual motivations give Dexter: The Final Season $55.99; Blu-ray: 3 discs, Defiance its share of heroes and villains, HHH $65.99 but most folks fall somewhere in between. Paramount, 633 min., not Breaking Bad has been While there is nothing new here, the show rated, DVD: 4 discs, $55.98, called the best American TV sports an engaging production design that Blu-ray: 3 discs, $63.98 show of its time, and these suggests a mix of industrial practicality This black-humored final eight episodes end the series with the and scavenged technology, and within this Showtime original series— same intelligence, depth of character, and un- landscape all sorts of schemes, conspiracies, starring Michael C. Hall as flinching drama that defined this landmark and political machinations are stirred into Dexter, a blood-spatter expert for Miami PD show throughout. Walt (), familiar stories of suspicious strangers, and TV’s favorite serial-killer hero—devel- the one-time high school chemistry teacher criminal activity, a Romeo and Juliet cross- oped a strong fan following that kept Dexter’s who evolved from desperate cancer victim cultural romance, and outside forces trying reign of crime going for eight seasons, the to superstar meth cook to ruthless godfather to take over Defiance and the mines that last of which finds him in great shape, but of his domain, is out of the meth business at give it value. Although not complex enough adoptive sister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter) this point. Or so he thinks: his DEA agent to attract viewers from across the genre di- spiraling into a self-destructive binge after brother-in-law finally figures out that Walt vide, it should satisfy otherwise underserved learning his dark secret and even killing was the mystery drug kingpin he’s been TV sci-fi fans, as well as those playing the to protect it. The story arc here is all about chasing all this time and the investigation tie-in video game—a massive online third- reconciling present and past, which comes stirs the violence back up with a vengeance. person adventure mirroring events on the back in the form of psychopathologist Dr. Of course, it all comes back to family and show. Compiling all 13 episodes from the Evelyn Vogel (), who friends, and once again no one remains 2013 debut season, extras include behind- helped Dexter’s adoptive father Harry (James

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 42 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 “EXTRAORDINARY! ONE OF THE GREAT SERIES OF THE YEAR.” - Robert Lloyd,

“EERIE, TENSE AND HIGHLY ADDICTIVE.” - Entertainment Weekly

“ NOT TO BE MISSED... STUNNINGLY PROVOCATIVE.” - David Wiegand, San Francisco Chronicle

AVAILABLE JANUARY 21, 2014

PRE-BOOK DECEMBER 17, 2013

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AVAILABLE

- David Wiegand, San Francisco Chronicle

STUNNINGLY PROVOCATIVE.”

NOT TO BE MISSED...

“

- Entertainment Weekly

AND HIGHLY ADDICTIVE.”

“EERIE, TENSE

- Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times

ONE OF THE GREAT SERIES OF THE YEAR.” “EXTRAORDINARY! Remar) create Dexter’s code (i.e., he only slays (Cory Monteith, who died in July 2013) has of Kovacs and an accomplished actress, other killers) and now consults for Miami PD a new career—while gifted newcomers are singer, comedienne, and entertainer in her in the case of a serial murderer nicknamed filling in the ranks as underclassmen.Glee is own right. I remembered little of the variety the Brain Surgeon (for reasons that become still teenage in the extreme—with show, which alternated weekly with The Sid obvious after you see the first victim). There’s fantasy elements in which students break out Caesar Show, but Adams’ commercials for also a potential apprentice for Dexter to in lavishly staged productions Muriel Cigars (“Why don’t you pick one up mentor, and maybe even a chance at a real that mirror their emotions with equal parts and smoke it sometime?”) left an imprint on family life of his own, although it’s hard to style and literalism. Amidst all the hugging my adolescent libido. Here’s Edie (later The Edie envision a happy ending for a man with so and tears, diversity has never been so ador- Adams Show) was an unconventional variety much collateral damage on his conscience. able, with breakups of every sort—boy/boy, series that while not nearly as groundbreak- Compiling all 13 episodes from 2013, extras boy/girl, girl/girl—as well as new couplings. ing or subversive as her husband’s TV forays include behind-the-scenes featurettes. Likely Mr. Schuester (Matthew Morrison) finally was still engagingly off-center. One indelible to satisfy faithful fans, this is recommended. marries Ms. Pillsbury (Jayma Mays), while bit: Adams does a striptease to David Rose’s (S. Axmaker) Cheerios cheerleaders coach Sue Sylvester well-known tune “The Stripper”—intercut (Jane Lynch) continues to bring the laughs. with Weegee photographs that make it appear Family Tree: The The characters deal with everything from as if his subjects are reacting to her sultry Complete First Season bullying to a shooting, although the rous- dance. The home video release of vintage HHH ing, creative production numbers remain the variety shows is always welcome, especially show’s raison d’être (and for those who want to HBO, 2 discs, 216 min., TV-14, in the case of a long-buried treasure such as DVD: $29.98 skip the , there’s a “Glee Jukebox” Here’s Edie. Compiling the complete 1962-64 option here). Compiling all 22 episodes from run of all 21 episodes, the series features time Christopher Guest brings 2012–13, additional extras include “making- capsule glimpses of legendary musicians and his /improv of” featurettes, interviews, and deleted scenes. entertainers (Count Basie, Duke Ellington, comedy approach to HBO A strong optional purchase. (T. Fr y) with Family Tree, which stars Chris O’Dowd Lionel Hampton, Sammy Davis, Jr., Bob as Tom Chadwick, a recently unemployed and Hope, Bobby Darin), as well as stars of their divorced thirtysomething who is distracted : The time (Allan Sherman, Eddie Fisher), and even from his self-pity when he inherits a box Complete Second Season baseball great Maury Wills. Among the more of memorabilia from a distant great-aunt HH uniquely compelling moments here are a and sets out to track down the backstories Warner, 5 discs, 929 min., not clip of Sir Michael Redgrave performing the of his ancestors. What he finds, inevitably, rated, DVD: $59.98 “St. Crispin’s Day” speech from Henry V, and is a roll call of eccentrics, underachievers, The first season finale another featuring Peter Falk as a New York and pursuers of stunted dreams, but it all of this CW-aired romantic cab driver who reflects on how much the unfolds in the droll, underplayed manner comedy ended with Lemon president is worth. Extras include musical that makes Guest’s feature films (including Breeland (Jaime King) being jilted at the altar numbers from several of Kovacs’ TV shows Waiting for Guffman and A Mighty Wind) such by hunky George Tucker (Scott Porter) after (including Adams’ signature a delight. The first half of the season plays out the latter decided he was in love with Dr. Zoe impression, in which the blonde bombshell in Great Britain, but then Tom’s sister, Bea Hart (Rachel Bilson), whom he found in bed performs “The Ballad of Davy Crockett”), a (Nina Conti)—who travels everywhere with with local lothario Wade Kinsella (Wilson 1965 Muriel promotional film, and a booklet. an opinionated hand puppet that channels Bethel) when he burst in to break the news. Recommended. (D. Liebenson) her repressed opinions—and best mate Pete If that sounds a little on the breathless-and- (Tom Bennett) join him to follow the trail to wacky side, such are the soap opera antics of The Hollow Crown: America. Some familiar faces from Guest’s small-town Southern life in BlueBell, AL. De- The Complete Series movies show up along the way, including spite an all-too-familiar premise—Zoe wound HHH1/2 Michael McKean (as the dad who spends up in the little burg as a general practitioner Universal, 4 discs, 528 min., his days watching painfully unfunny—and after her dream of being a big-time surgeon in not rated, DVD: $44.98 completely made-up—old British sitcoms), fizzled—Hart of Dixie is often Shakespeare’s “Henri- Ed Begley Jr., Fred Willard, Bob Balaban, and heartwarming. The story arc for the second ad”—the tetralogy of plays Guest himself. Compiling all eight episodes season is anchored by Zoe’s uncertainty covering the period 1398– from the 2013 debut season, extras include about choosing between George and Wade, 1422 in English royal history—is sumptu- deleted scenes, four faux Britcom scenes, and as well as continued interactions among other ously mounted in this four-film PBS-aired music clips from the show. Recommended. prominent citizens, including Lemon’s father, series produced by the BBC. Each was filmed (S. Axmaker) the cranky Dr. Brick Breeland (Tim Mathe- in locations connected with the actual events son); mayor and former NFL star Lavon Hayes by three directors—Rupert Goold for Richard Glee: The Complete (Cress Williams); and Zoe’s on-and-off friend, II, Richard Eyre for Henry IV, Part 1 and Part 2, the gossipy Annabeth Nass (Kaitlyn Black). Fourth Season HH1/2 and Thea Sharrock for Henry V—and they fea- Compiling all 22 episodes from 2012–13, this ture many of Britain’s most esteemed actors Fox, 963 min., not rated, DVD: is an optional purchase. (T. Fr y) 6 discs, $59.98; Blu-ray: 4 in supporting roles, including Patrick Stewart, discs, $69.99 , James Purefoy, John Hurt, Julie As in seasons past, lessons Here’s Edie: The Edie Walters, Alun Armstrong, Geraldine Chaplin, are learned and issues are Adams Television , and the late . The faced—with song, dance, Collection HHH leads are taken by Ben Whishaw as Richard humor, and drama—by the attractive talented MVD, 4 discs, 720 min., not II, Rory Kinnear and as a young kids in William McKinley High School’s New rated, DVD: $49.95 and older Henry IV, as Prince Directions glee club. A handful of characters This four-disc set rekin- Hal (later Henry V), and Simon Russell Beale have graduated—Rachel (Lea Michele) and dles a powerful childhood as Sir John Falstaff. Easily the most successful Kurt (Chris Colfer) are in New York, and Finn crush on Edie Adams, wife of the quartet is Richard II, in which Whishaw

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 44 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 offers an extraordinary performance in an shadowy CIA analyst Peter Quinn, who’s far dead and Jack is not satisfied with the official adaptation that depicts King Richard as a from being above suspicion himself. Compil- explanation, he turns detective and ends up fey figure whose overthrow mimics Chris- ing all 12 episodes from 2012, extras include digging through an old political scandal and tian martyrdom. The quality of the three behind-the-scenes featurettes and deleted cover-up along with investigative reporter Henry films, unfortunately, is somewhat scenes. Highly recommended. (T. Fr y) Linda Hillier (Marta Dusseldorp). The second compromised by the presence of Hiddleston, film, Black Tide, sends Jack on a missing- who tries hard but frankly seems out of his In the Flesh HHH persons case that turns out to be connected league, and by the decision of both Eyre and BBC, 180 min., not rated, to a number of disappearances. Anchored Sharrock to mute some of the plays’ most DVD: $19.98 by an interesting character and a strong rousing passages—including the St. Crispin’s Amidst the prolifera- performance by Pearce, these traditional but Day speech in Henry V, presented here in a tion of movies in which well-written offerings are of the same caliber conversational style that lacks the grandeur the voracious undead serve as most British TV mysteries but with an in versions starring Laurence Olivier and Ken- as various metaphors, the Australian setting and sensibility. Compiling neth Branagh. Kinnear and Irons are solid as BBC presents this three-part both feature-length episodes on DVD and a young and old Henry IV, but Beale’s Falstaff series, directed by Jonny Campbell, which Blu-ray/DVD Combo set (opt for the latter, is curiously sedate, never emerging as the is set in the aftermath of a zombie uprising. since the prices are identical), extras include a comically oversized personality of tradition. With drugs and therapy being used to calm behind-the-scenes featurette. Recommended. That’s only one aspect of the decision by both the rampagers (now classified under the tag (S. Axmaker) Eyre and Sharrock to present the last three “partially deceased syndrome”)—allowing plays in realistic fashion—a characteristic their underlying human personalities to take also evident in the battle sequences, which control—horror takes a backseat to social HHH1/2 are extremely grim and gritty. By contrast, drama as one young man, suicide victim BBC, 2 discs, 336 min., not Goold translates the theatrical nature of Rich- Kieren (Luke Newberry), returns home to a rated, DVD: $34.98 ard II into genuinely cinematic terms rather small village where fear and hatred prevail. The premise of this BBC than simply toning it down. Despite being While his parents (Marie Critchley, Steve series finds widowers Alan uneven, The Hollow Crown is an ambitious Cooper) try to protect him from patrolling and Celia—childhood project that boasts true flashes of brilliance. militias, and younger sister Jem (Harriet sweethearts who haven’t DVD extras include “making-of” featurettes. Cains) cannot acknowledge that the brother seen each other for 50 years—reunited in Highly recommended. (F. Swietek) she knew still resides within this strange and their seventies via Facebook and quickly damaged body, Kieren faces his own issues. deciding to marry. Thanks to perceptive : The Complete The narrative tackles themes of intolerance, writing by and outstand- Second Season forgiveness, acceptance, guilt, trauma, and ing performances from a strong ensemble HHH1/2 hypocrisy, ultimately finding that emotion cast, Last Tango in Halifax proves to be a Fox, 628 min., not rated, DVD: is far more powerful than reason or knowl- surprisingly affecting comedy-drama. Much 4 discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 edge. As a vehicle for portraying prejudice, of the credit goes to Derek Jacobi and Anne discs, $59.98 In the Flesh is not exactly subtle, but creator Reid as the septuagenarian lovers learning Showtime’s acclaimed Dominic Mitchell invests deeply in his char- anew about one another and surrounded by drama about vigilance acters, exploring how people justify their families whose problems ring true. Alan’s against domestic terrorism—centered on a impulses and ignore contradictions to suit daughter, Gillian (), is a widow troubled CIA agent and a soldier who may their needs. Rather than good guys versus struggling to keep the family farm afloat be hiding terrible secrets—is novelistic TV at bad guys, this is more about self-awareness while caring for a teenage son troubled by its best. Homeland and its lead actors—Claire and the all-too-human contradictions that rumors about his father’s death, and Celia’s Danes as operative Carrie Mathison and bubble up within us. Compiling all three daughter, Caroline (Sarah ), finds Damian Lewis as Sgt. Nicholas Brody—won episodes that originally aired in 2013, this is her philandering husband trying to worm his Emmys for the gripping debut season. This recommended. (S. Axmaker) way back into her life after going off with a second run is equally compelling, with more younger woman—a situation that unnerves unpredictable plotlines, and seismic shifts. Jack Irish, Set 1 HHH their two boys. The initial disastrous meeting Carrie’s bipolar disorder is under control now Acorn, 202 min., not rated, between Gillian and Caroline has a calculated that she’s not only out of the Company but DVD: $39.99, Blu-ray/DVD feel, and the episode in which Alan and Celia has also overcome her romantic feelings for Combo: 2 discs, $39.99 are locked in a local museum for the night Brody. Newly elected to Congress, Brody is Guy Pearce is Jack Irish, comes off as contrived, but for the most part also trying to move forward, but his secret a former lawyer struggling the material that Wainwright has invented life won’t let go, and pressures come both to pick up the pieces after for the characters (such as Celia’s reaction from the highest levels of the U.S. govern- his wife is brutally mur- to news of Caroline’s liaison with a fellow ment and the top tier of Islamic extremists dered—by Irish’s own client—in this Austra- teacher) is genuinely moving, with twists who are its mortal enemies. Tension builds lian telefilm series based on novels by Peter that make emotional sense. Compiling all as Carrie is pulled back into the intelligence Temple. All of this is established within the six episodes from the 2012 first season of this fold and Brody all but loses his mind (and his first few minutes of Bad Debts, the first of two BAFTA-winning series, this is highly recom- family) when asked to do unthinkable things. Jack Irish films that debuted on Australian mended. (F. Swietek) Returning characters include Mandy Patinkin TV in 2012. Pearce is suitably shabby and as Saul, Carrie’s boss and mentor; David seedy as Jack, who turns his back on his Leverage: The Final Season HH1/2 Harewood as CIA deputy director David Estes; profession, but seems content getting by as Fox, 4 discs, 635 min., not rated, DVD: $39.98 Jamey Sheridan as Vice President William a low-rent debt collector, itinerant racetrack This cable series about a modern Robin Walden; Morena Baccarin as Brody’s wife, gambler, drinker, and apprentice to a cabinet Hood team of colorful thieves who combine Jessica; Morgan Saylor as Brody’s daughter, maker—playing it all in the low-key style of a old-fashioned confidence schemes and Dana; and Navid Negahban as master terror- man slipping back into old haunts and easy high-tech tools to take on rich crooks in acts ist Abu Nazir. Rupert Friend is introduced as rhythms. But when a former client turns up of poetic justice comes to a close with this

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 45 VIDEO LIBRARIAN fifth and final season. The shows on TV, Mad Men features sophisticated fictional town of Fernwood, OH, the show original team is still intact writing, superb acting, unusual plot turns, stars Louise Lasser as the titular unfulfilled and more comfortable than and a finale that means big changes for the housewife, who is struggling with a sexually ever in their roles—Timothy future of the company and individual lives in confused husband (Greg Mullavey), a father Hutton as former insurance what will be the final season. Compiling all known as the “Fernwood Flasher,” a serial investigator and team ring- 13 episodes from 2013, extras include behind- killer who targets domestic animals as well as master Nathan Ford; Gina the-scenes featurettes and an interactive gal- people, and the waxy yellow build-up on her Bellman as con artist Sophie lery on the “Summer of Love.” Recommended. kitchen linoleum. Among the notable costars, Devereaux; Christian Kane as the muscle, (S. Axmaker) Debralee Scott is Mary’s sexually reckless Eliot Spencer; Aldis Hodge as computer single sister, Mary Kay Place is a neighbor and expert Alec Hardison; and Beth Riesgraf as Mama’s Family: The aspiring country singer, is cat burglar Parker. A move to Portland, OR Complete Collection the town’s scheming mayor, and Martin Mull (where the show is actually shot) brings HH plays identical twins. The half-hour program new authenticity to the series. One episode was shot like a traditional soap opera and ran StarVista, 24 discs, 3,315 min., features the famed “Spruce Goose” aircraft not rated, DVD: $199.95 five days a week in syndication, mixing wild at the Evergreen Aviation Museum, while a parodies of soap opera complications with later chapter revives the D.B. Cooper legend, Before Tyler Perry’s sly cultural satire about changing sexual with the regular cast members taking on Madea, there was plain- mores, consumerism, family dynamics, and additional parts in a substantial flashback. speaking Mama. A breakout character from media hysteria. The series is over 35 years old Guest stars include , Treat Wil- The Show, Mama’s dysfunctional yet it holds up surprisingly well, thanks to liams, Fred Ward, Matthew Lillard, and family sketches were admirably acted but also smart writing, a superb cast, and its perfect Adam Baldwin, along with Mark Sheppard tonally at odds with the broader comedy and evocation of the soap opera style. The video as returning nemesis Jim Sterling. Offering show-stopping musical numbers of the parent quality here betrays the show’s age, with escapism over drama while also delivering show. But a funny thing happened on the discoloration and some distortion at the edges action-movie flair, snappy writing, likable (if way to a weekly series: Mama’s rougher edges of the image, but that’s to be expected from eccentric) characters, and plenty of cheeky were somewhat smoothed over and Mama’s ‘70s video technology. Compiling all 325 humor, this is hardly essential TV but it is Family went from being to episodes from the 1976-77 first and second often fun. Compiling all 15 episodes from just another sitcom on the block from 1983- seasons, extras include behind-the-scenes 2012, extras include audio commentaries, 1990. The ensemble cast is hit and miss. Vicki featurettes, 10 episodes of the spin-off series deleted scenes, and a gag reel. A strong op- Lawrence, former Burnett sidekick, is in her Fernwood 2 Night, and a booklet. Recom- tional purchase. (S. Axmaker) element in her signature role. Blandly likeable mended. (S. Axmaker) Ken Berry is her dim son, Vinton, who moves back home, and is later joined by “floozy” Mad Men: Season 6 Naomi (Dorothy Lyman), whom he marries, The Middle: Season 3 HHH much to Mama’s displeasure. I’d mention HHH Lionsgate, 618 min., not rated, Vinton’s two children Sonja and Buzz, but Warner, 3 discs, 516 min., not DVD: 4 discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: they were gone by the time the series went rated, DVD: $44.98 3 discs, $49.98 into first-run syndication after two seasons. A cross between Malcolm The sixth season of the Pre-Golden Girls Rue McClanahan and Betty in the Middle and Roseanne, acclaimed cable drama White star as Mama’s sister and daughter, this sitcom receives little about mid-20th-century respectively. Burnett herself pops in on oc- network support, respect advertising execs and creative types drags the casion as high-strung, resentful daughter from critics, or recognition from the characters into the New York of 1968, where Eunice with husband Harvey Korman in tow Academy of TV Arts & Sciences. But op- they’re still frantically trying to get a handle (Korman did double duty during the show’s erating under the radar, it remains one on the fast-developing counterculture. Don initial NBC run as an Alistair Cooke-type of TV’s buried treasures. The third season Draper (Jon Hamm) responds in the usual host who introduced the episodes). Compil- is hardly the charm for the Heck family ways—chafing at the independence of young ing all 130 episodes from the series’ six-season from Orson, IN, who live chaotic lives of wife Megan (Jessica Paré), having an affair run, the copious extras here include the 1982 financial and social desperation. The Hecks with upstairs neighbor Sylvia (Linda Cardel- TV-move Eunice, a cast reunion, interviews, are the family who takes in the mail and lini), and blithely sabotaging a relationship original sketches, bloopers, and a “family tends to the pets of vacationing neighbors with a problem client—while also ending up album” booklet. Although popular in its (and are invariably rewarded with souvenir merging the firm with a rival, which brings day, Mama’s Family is an ‘80s relic that has refrigerator magnets as thanks). As with Peggy (Elisabeth Moss) back into the fold. not aged well (shot on video, it looks even The Honeymooners, what keeps The Middle Meanwhile, marriages end, relationships more ancient than most of the jokes). Not a from crossing over into the utterly depress- sour, and a speedball-fueled weekend work necessary purchase. (D. Liebenson) ing is its clever writing, fully-committed session sends the old guard on a bender. performances, and indefatigable spirit: the Woven throughout are an increasing number Hecks have been lapped a thousand times of flashbacks to Don’s childhood growing Mary Hartman, Mary over, but they refuse to quit the race. At the up at a brothel, but real-life events also leave Hartman: The Complete heart of the series are those “once in awhile” their mark, from the assassinations of Dr. Series HHH moments in which, against all odds, the Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy Shout! Factory, 38 discs, 8,100 family manages to come together (albeit to Vietnam and the protests at the Democratic min., not rated, DVD: $249.95 fleetingly). In one episode, mother Frankie National Convention. As in previous years, Norman Lear’s soap op- (Patricia Heaton) moves heaven and earth the characters stand largely outside the swiftly era parody lasted only a to get two concert tickets for moving social currents and major news sto- year and a half in the mid- herself and daughter Sue (Eden Sher) as a ries, and the series continues to provide an 1970s and never received high ratings, but bonding outing, only to be crushed when interesting perspective on American history, it developed a strong following and had a Sue invites a friend to use the second ticket. culture, and social norms. Still one of the best big impact on popular culture. Set in the Watching TV by herself, Frankie winds up

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 46 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 being unexpectedly joined by her usually the opener, rebuilding the Schmidt “brand”). resembling a thief of Baghdad than the sailor thoughtless, selfish slacker son (Charlie But for those who love the show, season two of traditional folk tales, Sinbad (Elliot Knight) McDermott). Guest stars include Ed Asner, does feature some benchmark episodes, begins as a reckless youth in 8th-century Molly Shannon, and Heaton’s Everybody including “Cooler,” with Jess and Nick’s Basra, accidentally causing the death of the Loves Raymond costar Ray Romano, who kiss, and “Virgins,” in which the characters emir’s nephew and losing his own brother to appears in a two-part honeymoon flashback recall how they lost their virginity. Notable execution. As part of his atonement, Sinbad episode. Compiling all 24 episodes from guest stars include Jamie Lee Curtis and is cursed and sent to sail the oceans in a the 2011-12 third season, extras include de- as Jess’s parents, the late Dennis captain-less, hazard-prone vessel called the leted scenes and bloopers. Recommended. Farina as Nick’s con man father, and Olivia Providence, whose multicultural crew (an Arab (D. Liebenson) Munn as a stripper/love interest for Nick. physician, a Viking war criminal, an African Fans will appreciate the inspired banter and princess) become Sinbad’s allies in perilous, Nashville: The Complete wordplay that boasts an original, uniquely fantastic adventures that cut across world New Girl loopiness. Extras include an episode folklore. Among the diversions here are were- First Season HH1/2 Lionsgate, 5 discs, 903 min., audio commentary, deleted scenes, a gag reel, wolves, mermaids, ninjas, Death himself, and TV-PG, DVD: $45.99 and an extended episode. Recommended. what would pass for the fabled “roc” bird. The Set in the big-business (D. Liebenson) production values and costumes are superb, capital of , and while only a few guest stars in the exotic this drama is a full-blown The Secret of Crickley cast (, , Janet nighttime soap opera with Hall HH1/2 Suzman, Dougray Scott) might be familiar a superb soundtrack. Created by Callie BBC, 175 min., not rated, to U.S. viewers, this series is a real treasure. Khouri (writer of Thelma & Louise), Nash- DVD: $19.98 Compiling all 12 episodes from the 2012 de- ville is a series dominated by women, most Prolific British horror but season, extras include behind-the-scenes notably Connie Britton’s Rayna James, writer James Herbert’s 2006 featurettes. Highly recommended. Aud: P. a savvy star whose marriage to mayoral novel—his penultimate (C. Cassady) candidate Teddy Conrad (Eric Close) is work—served as the basis on the rocks, and Hayden Panettierre’s for this three-part 2012 BBC miniseries, : The country pop tart Juliette Barnes, a fiercely which tells a rather old-fashioned haunted- Complete Sixteenth competitive, career-minded shark with house tale spanning 70 years, moving Season HH1/2 more talent than she’s given credit for. between the present and events from 1943. Paramount, 308 min., not Sandwiched amongst the sometimes tire- stars as Eve, who blames rated, DVD: 3 discs, $42.99; some parade of affairs, betrayals, black- herself for the disappearance of her young Blu-ray: 2 discs, $59.99 mail, and back-stabbing career gambits are son Cam during a visit to a park. To help her As a former South Park some terrific original songs, thanks to the cope, husband Gabe (Tom Ellis) arranges a diehard fan—who blinked involvement of musical producer T-Bone family stay at Crickley Hall, an old mansion back bitter tears after being turned away as Burnett. Clare Bowen, Jonathan Jackson, near a coastal village. But Eve soon senses a too young (by a month!) to watch the 1999 and Sam Palladio play attractive young spectral presence, which she believes to be Oscar-nominated feature film in theaters—I up-and-comers; Powers Boothe and Robert Cam calling for help. As the ghostly appari- have to admit that I’m somewhat indifferent Wisdom are political heavyweights locked tions increase, Eve investigates the history when it comes to newer seasons, including in campaigns of smears and dirty tricks; of the place, discovering that it was the site this 14-episode 16th season from 2012 of the and Charles Esten is an amiable veteran of a tragedy during the war, when it served -aired animated series. Once guitarist and recovering alcoholic whose as a refuge for children fleeing the Blitz. again, the youngsters of and Matt reckless past complicates much of the nar- Writer-director Joe Ahearne juggles Eve’s Stone’s infamous Colorado city tackle their rative. Nashville is a minor success, but that inquiries (which involve a medium and a weight in absurdity and pop culture skewer- is largely thanks to the music and the strong parapsychologist as well as various locals) ing in episodes including “Reverse Cowgirl” leads. Compiling all 21 episodes from the with flashbacks to 1943, a time when the im- (Clyde’s mom dies when he leaves the toilet 2012–13 debut season, extras include be- perious head of clashed with seat up); the meme-puncturing “Faith hind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, a young teacher who questioned his stern Hilling”; the survival spoof “I and bloopers. A strong optional purchase. methods, particularly toward a sad-faced Jew- Should Have Never Gone Ziplining”; and the (S. Axmaker) ish boy from Germany. Eventually, the plot trickle-down bullying-themed “Butterballs” strands come together, but a series of unlikely (in which the timid Butters is tormented New Girl: The Complete coincidences in the last act ultimately strain by his seemingly sweet grandmother, who Second Season HHH credulity. While handsomely mounted and taunts him: “think you’re fuckin’ tough, Fox, 3 discs, 546 min., not decently acted, The Secret of Crickley Hall huh?”). Also including the matchmaking rated, DVD: $39.98 feels like a contrived attempt to resuscitate a misstep “Cartman Finds Love” and “Rais- Although I am mostly creaky genre. Optional. (F. Swietek) ing the Bar” (which pokes fun at reality resistant to New Girl’s re- star Honey Boo Boo and composer Randy lentlessly quirky charms, Sinbad: The Complete Newman), the season culminates with the the encyclopedic recaps in First Season HHH1/2 lackluster finale “Obama Wins!”—an epi- such pop culture barometers as Entertainment BBC, 540 min., not rated, sode that sadly pales in comparison to the Weekly are solid evidence that the series has DVD: 3 discs, $29.98; Blu-ray: stellar, pitch-perfect 2008 election-themed a devoted following. Jess (Zooey Deschanel) 2 discs, $34.98 entry “About Last Night…” (one of my favor- and loft-mate Nick (Jake Johnson) are the Sinbad of Arabian Nights ites of the entire series). Either Parker and show’s will they/won’t they relationship, and fame receives a grandiose Stone are getting way more lame, or maybe during this sophomore season—following Pirates of the Caribbean-type I’m—finally—growing up. Extras include much high school-ish behavior—they will. treatment in this Anglo-Irish BBC co-produc- mini-commentaries by Parker and Stone and The series continues to insist on making tion filmed in picturesque Malta and replete deleted scenes. A strong optional purchase. womanizer Schmidt a thing (or as he calls it in with digital f/x and magical creatures. More (J. Williams-Wood)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 47 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Spartacus: War of the as a mysterious outsider hiding a scandalous series full of flashing lights, lavish sets, and Damned, The Complete secret, and as the town’s cor- dazzling costumes—whose days are taken rupt and power-hungry mayor. Compiling up with murders, mob hits, shady deals, Third Season HH all 13 episodes from the 2013 debut season, compromised politicians, and a city govern- Anchor Bay, 3 discs, 553 min., extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, ment torn between keeping crime off the not rated, DVD: $49.98, Blu- ray: $59.99 deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Recommended. streets and making sure the gambling estab- (J. Shannon) lishments thrive. But while the re-creation This third and final sea- is impressive, the tug-of-war between these son of the Starz cable series rivals never matches either the grit or the about the titular slave who led an uprising The Vampire Diaries: The novelistic sweep of its cable inspirations (the that almost toppled the Roman Republic Complete Fourth Season sex and violence here are also definitely toned combines blood, beefcake, and soft-core HHH down), and Vegas was cancelled after a single porn, to which is added arch speechifying, Warner, 969 min., not rated, season. Costars include Carrie-Anne Moss liberally salted here with f-bombs. The overall DVD: 5 discs, $59.98; Blu-ray/ DVD Combo: 9 discs, $69.98 as assistant DA Katherine O’Connell; Jason result is similar to one of those ridiculous O’Mara as Ralph’s brother and deputy; Taylor sword-and-sandal movies that Italian studios L.J. Smith’s multi-volume Handley as Ralph’s son; and Sarah Jones as a churned out in the 1950s and ’60s, goosed YA saga about ancient blood- hotel exec. Compiling all 21 episodes aired in up with gratuitous sex and nudity, and a suckers and teenage love predates the Twilight 2012–13, DVD extras include episode audio nonstop deluge of violence (including regular book series. But it wasn’t until after Twilight commentaries, behind-the-scenes featurettes, doses of decapitation and dismemberment, became a pop phenomenon that showbiz deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Optional, at as well as an occasional crucifixion). The cashed in on the craze with a TV version best. (S. Axmaker) storyline offers a fanciful depiction of the of The Vampire Diaries, which remains a hit military cat-and-mouse game played between for the CW network. The biggest news from noble Spartacus (Liam McIntyre) and crafty season four arrives in the 20th episode, which More Boxed Sets Crassus (Simon Merrells) on their way to a is essentially the pilot for the new spin-off final showdown, which in this case involves show The Originals. The Vampire Diaries is set : a hand-to-hand duel. Both sides are also ripe in Mystic Falls, where supernatural spirits Complete Series with dissension, as Spartacus argues with his have long been present, and where the blood 1-7 Limited Edi- more bellicose second-in-command, Crixus of Elena, Stefan, and Damon boils with pas- tion Blu-ray Gift (Manu Bennett), and Crassus is unable to sion in a complicated triangle of vampire Set (BBC, Blu-ray: mediate between his ambitious son, Tiberius obsession. Newly turned Elena is struggling 29 discs, $349.98). (Christian Antidormi), and the arrogant with the switch to immortality and the real- Compiling the complete adventures of the young Julius Caesar (). Those ity of what feeding really means, although it Ninth Doctor () and hankering for another helping of comic- will later turn out that Elena has a cure for Tenth Doctor (), as well as book-level heroics will eat War of the Damned vampirism—a plot point that reaches a head episodes featuring the Eleventh Doctor up, but most viewers would be better off during the cliffhanger finale. Actress Nina (), this high-definition collection watching Stanley Kubrick’s brilliant 1960 epic Dobrev plays both Elena and her ancient showcasing the escapades of an eccentric Spartacus. Compiling all 10 episodes aired doppelgänger Katherine, which leads to the time-traveling sci-fi hero includes all seven in 2013, extras include behind-the-scenes unusual prospect of fighting herself to the series sets from 2005-13—reviewed in VL- featurettes. An optional purchase, at best. “death.” Paul Wesley, who plays Stefan, also 7/06 (HHHH), VL-5/07 (HHHH), VL-11/11 (F. Swietek) has a double named Silas. Compiling all 23 (HHH), VL-1/13 (HHH), and VL Online-10/13 episodes from the 2012-13 fourth season, (HHH)—and The Complete Specials, starring Under the Dome HHH extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, Tennant, plus bonus features. Paramount, 4 discs, 541 min., deleted scenes, a gag reel, and a gallery of fan- not rated, DVD: $54.99, Blu- created artwork. Recommended. (T. Fr y) The Nunsense Collec- ray: $64.99 tion (SRO, DVD: 4 discs, Adapted from Stephen Vegas: The DVD Edition $39.99). Starring Rue McCla- King’s bestselling 2009 nov- HH nahan and Vicki Lawrence, el, the CBS summer minise- Paramount, 5 discs, 902 min., this compilation includes ries Under the Dome—essen- not rated, DVD: $55.98 the musical comedies Nun- tially a small-town melodrama with a sci-fi This cops-and-gangsters sense (VL-11/97 HHH1/2), twist—was a ratings hit. On a bright autumn drama, co-created by Nicho- Nunsense 2: The Sequel (VL- day, the 1,976 citizens of Chester’s Mill, ME, las Pileggi (writer of Goodfel- 1/01 HHH1/2), Nunsense 3: suddenly find themselves trapped under a gi- las), takes a network TV stab The Jamboree (VL-7/03 HHH), and Nuncrackers gantic clear dome: no one can enter or leave. at the popular strain of period shows that are (guest starring John Ritter). Although it differs from the novel, the small finding success on paid cable networks. The screen version of Under the Dome still pits hook here is the collision of a cowboy lawman individual citizens and groups against each and urban mobsters in the wild days of early other as loyalties and rivalries form over pre- 1960s Las Vegas. Dennis Quaid is Ralph Lamb, Online cious resources like water, food, and firearms. a maverick rancher turned frontier-style Visit Video Librarian Online (www. Over time, a military presence forms outside sheriff of Las Vegas County (the character is videolibrarian.com) for more reviews dur- the dome, but the dome’s origin and purpose loosely based on an actual person of the same ing January and February, including: The (alien, or supernatural, or military?) remain name), who is brought in to run herd over the Fall: Series 1, Johan Falk Trilogy, Kindred: shrouded in mystery as tensions escalate be- growing mob presence. (The The Embraced, Line of Duty: Series 1, Mys- neath it. Appealing to all demographics, ) costars as Vincent Savino, a Chicago tery Science Theater 3000: 25th Anniversary series features both teenagers and a suitably gangster who takes over a hotel/casino and Edition, Primeval New World: The Complete soapy variety of adults vying for control, with has aspirations to control the entire town. Series, Silk: Series One, and much more! the ensemble cast capably led by Mike Vogel Both are larger-than-life personalities—in a

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 48 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 2013 Best Documentaries

colorful ghostwriter David Ritz. (VL-11/13) those who have experienced tragedy due to guns. (VL-9/13) Brooklyn Castle (Millen- 2013 nium, 90 min., DVD: $19.99 Guilty Pleasures (PBS, 86 [$60 w/PPR from First Run min., DVD: $19.99 [$39.95 Features, www.firstrunfea- w/PPR from www.teacher. tures.com]). Directed by shop.pbs.org]). Aired on Katie Dellamaggiore, this PBS’s POV series, director engaging documentary Julie Moggan’s documen- shines a spotlight on the tary offers a perceptive look highly-ranked junior high chess team at in- at the romance novel genre, ner-city Brooklyn Intermediate School 318, profiling individuals from celebrating the commitment of students, India, Japan, England, and New York, in- The following list, selected and compiled parents, teachers, and administrators. (VL- cluding three women who read Harlequin by Video Librarian staff, honors the best new 9/13) (in Britain, Mills & Boon) romance novels, documentaries reviewed in the magazine and an elderly bachelor who has written nearly online during 2013. Unless otherwise noted, The Central Park Five 50 bodice rippers, and a male model who titles are available from most distributors. (PBS, 120 min., DVD: $24.99 appears on more than 200 Mills & Boon [$54.95 w/PPR from www. covers. (VL-1/13) 56 Up (First Run, 138 teacher.shop..org], Blu- min., DVD: $29.95). The ray: $29.99). Famed film- Head Games (The AV eighth film in Michael maker Ken Burns’s latest Cafe [www.theavcafe.com], Apted’s groundbreaking documentary—adapted 96 min., DVD or Blu-ray: landmark documentary se- from a book by his daugh- $14.99). Inspired by the ries—in which the director ter, Sarah Burns—presents a gripping true titular book from former has interviewed a group of crime story from the perspective of five black football player and wres- subjects every seven years and Latino teenagers from Harlem who were tler Christopher Nowinski, since 1964 when they were seven—finds wrongly convicted of raping a white woman filmmaker Steve James’s the now-56-year-olds coping with the global in New York City’s Central Park in 1989. documentary exposes the dangers of sports financial crisis. (VL-7/13) (VL-5/13) concussions—aka “mild traumatic brain injury”—which are often anything but Beware of Mr. Baker Ethel (HBO, 97 min., mild, especially when suffered by school-age (Vivendi, 74 min., DVD: DVD: $19.98). Directed by athletes. (VL-11/13) $14.95). Filmed at his South 11th and last child Rory African homestead, irate Kennedy, this HBO-aired The House I Live In (MPI, London-born septuagenar- biographical documentary 108 min., DVD: $14.99). ian drummer Ginger Baker focuses on Ethel Kennedy, Eugene Jarecki’s Sundance of Cream and Blind Faith is who describes an idyllic, Grand Jury Prize award- profiled in this rock-and-roll active upbringing in the winning documentary pres- saga from writer and filmmaker Skakel family followed by wonderful and ents a searing indictment Jay Bulger. (VL Online-6/13) terrible years as a Kennedy clan matriarch. of both the ineffectiveness (VL-9/13) and the flawed social justice Blackfish (Magnolia, 83 of the so-called “War on Drugs,” detailing the min., DVD: $26.98, Blu-ray: First Position (MPI, 94 chronic failure of government policy over the $29.98). Nominated for a min., DVD: $24.99). Film- past four decades. (VL Online-7/13) Sundance Grand Jury Prize, maker Bess Kargman’s beau- director Gabriela Cowper- tiful dance documentary The Imposter (Indomi- thwaite’s investigative report follows a group of multi-eth- na, 99 min., DVD: $19.98). on SeaWorld is a thought- nic kids striving in a mighty Playing like a psychological provoking and compelling performance competition: thriller, Bart Layton’s sus- piece of activist filmmaking, questioning the Youth America Grand penseful documentary— the wisdom of keeping orcas—or so-called Prix world-traveling exhibition of both clas- based on a 2008 New Yorker killer whales—in captivity as entertainment sical and modern dance, which serves as a article by David Grann—in- providers in staged shows. (VL-11/13) route to school scholarships and job slots in terweaves interviews and professional troupes. (VL-3/13) dramatizations to tell the almost unbeliev- Branca’s Pitch (Strand, able-but-true story of a 23-year-old French 87 min., DVD: $19.99). Film- A Girl & a Gun (First Algerian man who assumed the identity of maker Andrew J. Muscato’s Run, 76 min., DVD: $24.95 a missing Texas teenager. (VL-1/13) “jockumentary” looks at [$200 w/PPR: public librar- the aftermath surrounding ies, $350 w/PPR: colleges & Into the Cold (Shelter the scapegoating of 1950s universities from Collective Island/TDC, 87 min., DVD: Brooklyn Dodger pitch- Eye Films, www.collective- $24.98 [$199 w/PPR: public er Ralph Branca after he eye.org]). Filmmaker Cath- libraries, $249 w/PPR: col- threw a ball that was hit for ryne Czubek’s provocative leges & universities from a game-winning home run—the legendary documentary examines the relationship www.shelterisland.net]). “shot heard round the world”—and also ex- between American women and firearms Filmed using a handheld plores Branca’s collaboration on a book with through interviews with both enthusiasts and video camera, director Se-

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 49 VIDEO LIBRARIAN bastian Copeland’s extraordinary documen- and experts, including Erin Brockovich. (VL ties from Media Education tary follows photographer Copeland and Online-1/13) Foundation, www.mediaed. teammate explorer Keith Heger on a 400-plus- org]). Writer-director Byron mile expedition through the Arctic Circle to The Other Dream Team Hurt’s PBS-aired Independent the North Pole. (VL-3/13) (Lionsgate, 90 min., DVD: Lens documentary exam- $24.98). Filmmaker Marius ines the complex relation- Knuckleball! (MPI, 85 A. Markevicius’s inspiring ship between black people min., DVD: $24.98). Film- documentary celebrates and soul food, which health makers Ricki Stern and Annie Lithuania’s love for basket- experts warn carries risks Sundberg’s entertaining and ball—from being forced to for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart dis- informative documentary play on Soviet teams after ease, obesity, and other ailments. (VL-7/13) looks at a controversial and the country was absorbed often marginalized group of by the U.S.S.R. following WWII, to their The Story of Film: An baseball pitchers who spe- amazing 1992 Summer Olympics perfor- Odyssey (Music Box, 915 cialize in throwing unpre- mance in Barcelona as an independent min., DVD: 5 discs, $69.95). dictable knuckleballs, focusing on 18-year Lithuanian team that was fi nancially backed Beginning with the birth veteran Tim Wakefi eld of the Boston Red Sox by the Grateful Dead. (VL-1/13) of motion pictures in the and 37-year-old R.A. Dickey of the New York silent era and moving up Mets. (VL-5/13) The Revisionaries through the digital age, (Kino Lorber, 83 min., Irish critic and filmmaker Last Call at the Oasis DVD: $29.95 [$349 w/PPR Mark Cousins’s 15-part per- (Docurama, 105 min., DVD: from www.kinolorber- sonal tribute serves up a comprehensive $29.95). Filmmaker Jessica edu.com]). Detailing one history of cinema that features interviews Yu’s globe-spanning eco- aspect of the continual with fi lmmakers and actors such as Gus Van alarm documentary on evolution-vs.-creationism Sant, , Wim Wenders, Claire dwindling water resourc- argument, director Scott Denis, , John Sayles, and Abbas es—a situation stemming Thurman’s documentary Kiarostami. (VL-1/13) from a combination of waste- offers a snapshot of theocratic strategies for ful industries, shortsighted insinuating a right-wing Christian agenda Undefeated (Anchor planning, and a human population of seven into U.S. schools, focusing on Texas School Bay, 114 min., DVD: $14.98, billion—features commentary from activists Board of Education Chairman Don McLe- Blu-ray: $19.99). Filmmak- roy, who believes that the universe is only ers Dan Lindsay and T.J. 6,000 years old. (VL-5/13) Martin’s Oscar-winning documentary follows the Searching for Sugar Manassas Tigers, a severely Man (Sony, 87 min., DVD: underfunded West Mem- $30.99, Blu-ray: $35.99). phis high school football How An obsession to uncover team striving to overcome their losing repu- the truth about an obscure tation with the help of volunteer coach Bill Much singer-songwriter brings Courtney. (VL-1/13) surprising and affect- TIME ing revelations in Malik The Waiting Room Bendjelloul’s hugely en- (Docurama, 82 min., tertaining, Oscar-winning documentary on DVD: $29.95 [$295 w/PPR Sixto Rodriguez, who commercially bombed from Bullfrog Films, www. at Motown but became hugely popular years bullfrogfilms.com]). Peter Are you later (unbeknownst to him) when several Nicks’s Academy Award of his songs were adopted as anthems in short-listed documentary LOSING apartheid-era South Africa. (VL-1/13) offers a powerful cinema vérité portrait of the stun- to Somm (First Run, 93 ningly overcrowded emergency waiting video Acquisition? min., DVD: $24.95). Ja- room at Oakland’s Highland Hospital. son Wise’s entertaining (VL-9/13) documentary explores the exclusive world of the pres- We Steal Secrets: The tigious Court of Master Story of WikiLeaks (Uni- Sommeliers, focusing on versal, 130 min., DVD: four wine buddies who $19.98). Directed by Alex study history, geography, Gibney, this documentary and German-language idioms using fl - thriller blends the stories 1 vendor. cards in an effort to pass the famously of Julian Assange and the 80,000 titles. intimidating Master Sommelier Exam, creation of WikiLeaks with which challenges their ability to ID wine that of document-leaker 1 STOP. right down to a specifi c vineyard and year, Pfc. Bradley Manning in the dissemination by taste alone. (VL-11/13) of top-secret material about the Iraq War, www.ActionLibraryMedia.com as well as a huge cache of State Department Soul Food Junkies (PBS, 60 min., DVD: documents that were embarrassing to Wash- $24.99 [$275 w/PPR: colleges & universi- ington. (VL-11/13)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 50 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Video Reviews

Tim Curry, John Rhys-Davies, George Ken- Skipper would rather update her blog than Ordering information for the titles reviewed in nedy, Margot Kidder, Ben Stein, and in a re- enjoy the Swiss scenery, Stacie is worried curring role as an ever-foiled monster-hunter, her “natural jock” status will be marred this section can be found in the “Distributor Jim Belushi. A strong optional purchase. Aud: by her lack of horse-riding skills, and little Addresses” listings at the back of the magazine. P. (C. Cassady) Chelsea is unhappy when tiny pony Dash appears to be her biggest prospect. Centered HHHH= Excellent The Ant and the Grasshopper HHH1/2 around the upcoming annual equestrian (2013) 6 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). tournament—with the threat that the riding HHH= Good . PPR. Closed captioned. academy may close (if they don’t win!)—A HH= Fair ISBN: 0-545-57136-7. Pony Tale finds Barbie bonding with a ma- Animated by Soup2Nuts, this latest adapta- jestic steed from a special ancient herd, and H= Poor tion from daughter/father team Rebecca and serves up comic relief in the form of fluffy PPR = Public Performance Rights Ed Emberley is based on their 2012 picture puppies, boys from a rival school, and a ste- book. Featuring narration and an über-jazzy reotypical French worker and his scheming DD = Digital Download soundtrack by -based blues musi- brother. Extras include an episode from the “Life in the Dreamhouse” web series, music Aud = Audience cian Chris Thomas King, the classic fable is here updated with vivid greens, bright blues, videos, and outtakes. Recommended. Aud: K = Preschool-Kindergarten and day-glo pinks and orange as a girl-ant P. ( J. Williams-Wood) struggling with picnic remains on a humid E = Elementary (grades 1-3) day meets a hip grasshopper and his buggy Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures: I = Intermediate (grades 4-6) boogie band. “Come groove with us!” says the Volume 1 HHH grasshopper—who calls the ant “baby”—but (2011) 120 min. DVD: $19.95. Polka Dot J = Jr. High (grades 7-8) since she’s in a hurry to get back to the colony, Productions (dist. by Janson Media). ISBN: 978-1- H = High School (grades 9-12) the gang (including beetle, dragonfly, and 56839-457-2. bee musicians) follow along, and provide Five-year-old Betsy navigates her first year C = Colleges & Universities music for a cool underground party. Offering of school in this charming animated PBS- P = Public Libraries a funky twist on a well-known tale, extras aired series created by teacher and author include a read-along option. Highly recom- Betsy M. Quinn and directed by Academy mended. Aud: K, P. (J. Williams-Wood) Award–winning animator Fred Crippen. During the eight segments compiled here, Barbie & Her Sisters in A Pony Tale the precocious student attends her first day of CHILDREN’S HHH class, makes friends, and shares her anxieties, (2013) 75 min. DVD: $19.98, Blu-ray/DVD confusion, and excitement about this big new Combo: $26.98. Universal Studios Home change. Each segment combines lessons in Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). SDH educational basics, such as counting, with an Aaahh!!! Real Monsters: The Complete captioned. overarching moral theme. Betsy learns about Series HH1/2 Set in the shadow of the Matterhorn (in teamwork, responsibility, and how to solve (2013) 8 discs. 1,200 min. DVD: $29.95. Shout! the Alps, not Disneyland), this latest ad- conflicts as she navigates new experiences Factory (avail. from most distributors). dition to the animated franchise features that include going on field trips, searching for Well before Monsters University, Nickelode- Barbie and her siblings traipsing around the lost class salamander, and preparing for on aired this 1994-1997 cartoon series about a pretty-cool-looking CGI riding school her first visit from the tooth fairy. The simple, a secret creature academy in a city dump owned by their Aunt Marlene and her colorful animation boasts the pleasing look that educates young monsters in the art of young twins Max and Marie. In this out- of a child’s drawing, while the corresponding scaring humans (with one amusing episode ing, Barbie is searching for a special horse tone is light and friendly. Recommended. featuring black-and-white classroom-style to bring home for riding competitions, Aud: K, P. (K. Cruver) films illustrating how boogeymen-monsters shaped civilization through the ages). The plotlines in the 52 episodes compiled here focus chiefly on three monster classmates: Blackout HHHH (2013) 7 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). Weston Woods Krumm, whose standout trait is a foul smell; Studios. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 0-545-57146-4. shape-changing Oblina, an overachiever with consistently high grades; and Ickis, who This adaptation of author and illustrator John Rocco’s 2011 may be the son of an eminent monster, but picture book—which won acclaim as a Caldecott Honor Book and basically resembles a bunny. Stories include Best Book of the Year for Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, Krumm becoming conceited after he fashions and Kirkus Reviews—features a rousing salsa-ish soundtrack by a discarded purse into a new head, Oblina David Mansfield. Narrated by Oscar-nominee Stanley Tucci, the attracting a shallow suitor, and an encounter almost-luminously animated Blackout focuses on a young boy with one of the academy’s most prominent and his family in a city apartment on a hot summer night. Ev- dropouts—Bigfoot. Despite the school setting eryone is too busy talking on the phone, cooking, etc., to play a and the fact that the monster heroes faith- board game, so the protagonist turns to video games…until “the lights…went…out…all fully turn in their homework (i.e., scaring of them.” Watching the household bond not only with each other (as they gather people), the show is far less about guidance flashlights and candles for shadow ) but also with their neighbors (everyone than pure goofiness. That said, Aaahh!!! Real congregates to appreciate a music and ice-cream filled block party lit by the stars) Monsters is also pretty noisy and frantic, and is a heartwarming treat. Extras include read-along subtitles, and an interview with one has to wonder whether 21st-century kids Rocco (also known for his work on the Percy Jackson & the Olympians covers). Highly will get the gags about pay telephones and recommended. Editor’s Choice. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood) film-loaded cameras. Celebrity voices include

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 51 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Emmy Nominee - Outstanding Arts & Culture Programming Highly Recommended ½ Video Librarian The Cart That Carried Martin ★★★ (2013) 7 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-933938-97-4. Based on author Eve Bunting and illustrator Don Tate’s 2013 book, this iconographic-animated adaptation—narrated by Sean Crisden—follows the funeral procession of Martin Luther King Jr., as his staff borrows a wagon, paints it the color “of grass when it rains,” and hitches it to a pair of mules for the trip from Ebenezer Baptist Church through to King’s alma mater, Morehouse College. The Cart That Carried Martin is full of realistic details, ranging from the sad crowds (who climb trees and lampposts for a better view) to an image of Coretta Scott King—under a dark veil—holding her young daughter. Viewers will also see the National Historic Site display of the titular cart that held an activist icon on his last day, a man whose “great spirit had been the heaviest part of him.” Also including an audio segment about King’s life, this is recommended. Aud: E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)

The story of acclaimed artist Beverly ★★★ set aside by Squirrel for the winter. In “It’s McIver and her promise to take care of Gravity Falls: Six Strange Tales (2013) 129 min. DVD: $19.99. Walt Disney Okay,” Mouse accidentally disturbs Little her sister Renee (who is mentally dis- Studios Home Entertainment (avail. from most Nutbrown Hare’s fun and tries hard to com- abled) when their mother dies. distributors). SDH captioned. pensate; while in “Slip, Slop, Slide,” Hare is embarrassed about his clumsiness when “The same themes that fuel this artist’s dis- Twelve-year-old siblings Dipper and Mabel skating with pals on an ice pond. “Inside tinguished work - race, class, family, disability are sent to visit their great-uncle in Gravity Day” is a cute segment in which Hare and - propel this cinematic portrait. A testament to Falls for the summer. Their “Grunkle” runs Mouse—who are not natural hibernators the transformative power of art.” - Full Frame the Mystery Shack, a tourist trap billed as “the world’s most bizarre museum.” But his like Squirrel—decide to give hibernation a faux wonders pale in comparison to what try in order to make spring come faster, and WESTCITYFILMS.com Dipper and Mabel discover in the pages “Snowfl ake” is a sweet tale about trying to of a journal they fi nd in the woods. This catch a snowfl ake that one can keep. Serv- imaginative animated Disney Channel series ing up valuable life lessons tucked within recalls Eerie, Indiana, a one-season wonder engaging narratives that are enhanced by about two friends who investigate the weird- lovely visuals, this is highly recommended. ness of their idyllic small town. Fortunately, Aud: K, P. (T. Keogh) Gravity Falls seems destined to have a longer life, not least because animation is a better I Want My Hat Back ★★★ medium for creating such age-appropriate (2013) 9 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). oddities as, say, a marauding monster com- Weston Woods Studios. PPR. Closed captioned. prised of garden gnomes seeking a garden ISBN: 0-545-57151-0. New queen. The series greatly benefi ts from the Canadian author and illustrator Jon for ebullient voice of (Flight of Klassen’s 2011 picture book—a cute story the Conchords), who imbues Mabel with an about a bear searching high and low for his 2014! infectious eccentricity and enthusiasm, and missing hat—was lauded with both ALA aside from minor annoyances, the twins’ Notable and Theodor Seuss Geisel Beginning relationship is refreshingly supportive. Reader honors. Narrated by Daniel Pinkwater, Compiling six episodes from the series, this with a banjo/whistling soundtrack by Scotty is recommended. Aud: P. (D. Liebenson) Huff, this animated adaptation follows Bear after he realizes that, “My hat is gone. I want it back.” Moseying along, Bear asks about his DVD Guess How Much I Love You: Hidden Parenting Principles hat as he encounters animals such as a fox, 300048 $79.95 DVD UPC#846742004780 | Treasure ★★★1/2 a frog, a turtle, a snake, and others…includ- (2011) 80 min. DVD: $12.98. Entertainment One ing a rabbit wearing a hat, who grows very Join leading adolescence and parenting (avail. from most distributors). SDH captioned. expert Laurence Steinberg, Ph.D., in an ISBN: 1-4172-3719-8. defensive about the inquiry. Set against a stark white background with black, gray, examination of the ten basic principles Based on the 1994 children’s picture book and muted colors used for the creatures and of good parenting. written by Sam McBratney and illustrated by forest, this silly story features extras includ- Closed Captioned Anita Jeram, the animated Guess How Much I ing read-along subtitles and an interview Grade 6 – Adult Love You includes six short episodes featuring with Klassen. Recommended. Aud: K, E, P. Little Nutbrown Hare, his dad Big Nutbrown (J. Williams-Wood) Hare, and friends Little Field Mouse, Little Grey Squirrel, and Little Redwood Fox. The elegant woodland world of Jeram’s original Mama Doni’s Jewish Holiday Party images comes to life in these stories, which ★★★ CALL 888.455.7003 kick off with “Hidden Treasure,” in which (2013) 66 min. DVD: $19.98. Mama Doni Productions (avail. from most distributors). OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE: Mouse looks for a sparkling rock but can’t www.learningzonexpress.com find one. In “Finder’s Keepers,” Fox hap- This delightful DVD for children—starring pens upon a pile of yummy spotted acorns Parents Choice award-winning entertainer

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 52 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Debuted #9 on the New York Times Bestsellers List Starred Review.

“Expertly imagined, composed, drawn and colored, this is Wiesner at his best.” — Kirkus Reviews

This scrumptious New York Times bestseller has a whole lot of kick… and is now on video!

Dragons love tacos. Unfortunately, where there are tacos, there is also salsa. And if a dragon accidentally eats spicy salsa... oh, boy. You’re in red-hot trouble.

Now available from your media distributor.

dreamscapeab.com

Mr. Wuffles Dragon Tacos Ad.indd 1 12/4/13 1:52 PM Mama Doni (Doni Zasloff Thomas), a dy- namo of energy and talent—focuses on three HHH Jewish holidays marked by rituals, good food, Lost and Found 1/2 (2008) 24 min. DVD: $9.98. Entertainment One (avail. from most bonding time, music, and fun, with Doni and distributors). ISBN: 1-4172-3217-X. musical partner Eric Lindberg contributing bluegrass versions of holiday favorites. For Based on a popular children’s book by Oliver Jeffers, Lost and Chanukah, Mama Doni wisely begins with Found—narrated by Oscar-winner —is a charming, a kids’ game: a dreidel circle with gelt (choco- gorgeously animated short about a boy who comes to terms with late coins) in the middle for the winner, taking responsibility for an impetuous penguin. When the latter which is followed by a cute film about trying turns up one day in a seaport town, the critter waddles its way to use gelt as real money in stores, after which into the life of our nameless little hero, who tries to rid himself Doni explains the story behind Chanukah. of the bird via a lost and found department and a departing Next up is Passover, which Doni suggests is ship. When nothing works, he takes the penguin with him in a about freedom—including the freedom to rowboat and heads for Antarctica, but a few mishaps lie in wait, including a giant storm, be oneself. Doni notes that Passover includes an encounter with hundreds of rubber ducks, and a malevolent-looking giant octopus. housecleaning, shopping for kosher foods The visuals are wonderful, the spare dialogue enchanting, and the story’s unexpected and leavened products, putting together a ending both sweet and satisfying. DVD extras include a “making-of” featurette. Highly Seder plate, and—for youngsters—making recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (T. Keogh) matzo pizza. The third segment, which centers on the Shabbat (or weekly Sabbath), features more tunes, dances, and stories, solid theme-based compilation touching on Those Darn Squirrels HHH along with a simple recipe for making chal- facing common worries. Segments include (2013) 8 min. DVD: $38.99. Dreamscape Media. lah. Bundled with a bonus audio CD featur- a silly scene featuring the “Mostly Poultry” PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-933938-40-0. ing 13 songs, this engaging children’s title is T-ball team overreacting to a thunderstorm, Based on the 2008 picture book by author recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (T. Keogh) during which Hooper’s Store worker Chris, Adam Rubin and illustrator Daniel Salmieri, Laundromat employee Leela, , and this iconographic-animated adaptation Power Rangers Zeo, Volume One HHH try out techniques to calm introduces crotchety “Old Man Fookwire, ” (2013) 3 discs. 480 min. DVD: $19.95. Shout! the chicken; Zoe overcoming her fear of who—unimpressed with the niceties of life Factory (avail. from most distributors). Closed enormous fuzzy Muppet pup Barkley and captioned. (such as pie and puppies)—only gets excited learning about proper etiquette for meeting about painting pictures of the myriad birds This compilation of 25 episodes from the and greeting dogs; and a sleepover where that fly near his little home on the edge of 1996 fourth season of the never-ending U.S./ Baby Bear reassures his younger Cousin town. With the onset of fall, the lonely grump Japanese Power Rangers franchise features Bear over scary shadows. Also including decides to try to lure the avian scavengers the chintzier production values of yester- animated segments, and a vignette with into sticking around with robust birdfeeders, year—i.e., very little CGI, and the “Zords” guest star James Gandolfini (as he chit-chats but these are swiftly overtaken by a group of (robot animals used by the Power Rangers) with Zoe about fears and clutches a teddy are clearly puppet miniatures. Believe it or crafty, extremely intelligent squirrels. Both bear), extras include the bonus episode “A not, some fans actually find those subpar the birds and Fookwire are upset at the thiev- Celebration of Me, Grover,” and three ad- qualities to be this cheesy enterprise’s pri- ing rodents, so Fookwire sets about fashion- ditional segments. Recommended. Aud: K, mary charm (in one episode here, the heroes ing complicated contraptions to put a stop to P. ( J. Williams-Wood) learn about something called the “Internet”). the pilfering…even though the birds—natu- Zeo finds the suspiciously mature-looking rally—still fly South for the season. Although “high school” Power Ranger kids facing a : Fun! HH1/2 the old man is sad, Those Darn Squirrels comes new foe: the Machine Empire, led by a royal (2013) 121 min. DVD: $14.98. Warner Home up with some ideas to soften the blow for family of robots described as so evil they Video (avail. from most distributors). Fookwire in this fun children’s tale narrated were expelled from an association of villains. This latest compilation from the long-run- by Kirby Heyborne. Recommended. Aud: K, But they’re an exceptionally goofy dynasty ning children series cobbles together fairy E, P. (J. Williams-Wood) of darkness, silly even by series standards, tale and nursery rhyme-themed segments and the metallic King Mondo remains jovial featuring the popular Muppet characters and and upbeat even when his minions (most of friends. Here, Elmo and Abby try their hand PSYCHOLOGY & SELF-HELP whom wear what look like C3PO masks) are at helping Mother Goose—who is suffering defeated repeatedly by the Rangers. Guest from writer’s block—to create three more -monsters are on the level of a top-hat- works before her deadline. El Huaso: The Last Rodeo HHH ted, punning man-piano called Fortissimodo pops up in reporter garb to meet with classic (2012) 78 min. In English & Spanish w/English (which features an gag). The infec- characters, including a princess who wants subtitles. DVD: $398. Magic Lantern Films. PPR. tious sense of dumb fun is underlined by cast to kiss an amphibian (which backfires) and Canadian filmmaker Carlo Guillermo gags and bloopers over the closing credits. a snoring Sleeping Beauty. Also including Proto’s documentary highlights the - In one, an actor mispronounces “service” ’s playdate with Hansel and Gretel, tional trauma experienced by his father, as “cervix,” and that’s about as “racy” as the Abby attempting to kiss to Gustavo, a 58-year-old Chilean immigrant show gets. Collections already Powered up turn him into royalty, and a nervous Jack Be who carved out a successful business career will find the time-tested fan base wanting Nimble (who draws inspiration from a song- before becoming obsessed with the concept to revisit this classic. Recommended. Aud: singing kangaroo and the famous cow who of suicide after medical tests detected the P. (C. Cassady) jumped over the moon), this is ultimately possible beginnings of Alzheimer’s disease. a so-so title. Extras include two bonus seg- The diagnosis only exacerbates Gustavo’s Sesame Street: Being Brave HHH ments, and the full-length CinderElmo (star- propensity toward depression—his mother (2013) 134 min. DVD: $14.98. Warner Home ring Keri Russell, Kathy Najimy, and Oliver succumbed to Alzheimer’s and his father took Video (avail. from most distributors). Platt). A strong optional purchase. Aud: K, P. his own life. As Gustavo finds his memory The Sesame is back in this (J. Williams-Wood) slowly fraying—a sequence in which he be-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 54 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 comes frustrated by failing to take the proper that abusers don’t necessarily look creepy and with the more contemporary notion of the highway exit is particularly painful—he ar- may even seem normal. “Stopping an Abuser” tempter found in the Christian Gospels. The ranges to leave the bleak wintry landscape of assures kids that they can be assertive and film explores the emergence of associated im- Toronto and go back to Chile. While Gustavo say “NO!”—even to a grownup—noting that agery during the Middle Ages, discusses the claims that his return to his native country it’s okay to lie in order to get away if you feel introduction of the concept of witchcraft and will allow him to pursue a childhood dream danger. “Telling Someone” includes sugges- human “deals” with Satan (ranging from the of being a cowboy, his son is concerned that tions for creating a safety network of family Faust story to a myth associated with blues the trip home will be the final stop on his or school workers, with information for the musician Robert Johnson), and examines life’s journey. Although often uncomfort- National Abuse Hotline. DVD extras include a how the devil and his adherents have been able to watch, El Huaso tells a sensitive and PDF teacher’s guide. A fine guidance title on a portrayed in popular entertainment, particu- heartbreaking family story. Recommended. serious subject, this is highly recommended. larly in movies such as the 1973 blockbuster Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) Aud: E, I, P. (J. Williams-Wood) The Exorcist. The final segment turns to the issues of possession and exorcism, looking at Here One Day HHH the sporadic panics regarding satanic practice (2012) 76 min. DVD: $95: public libraries; $295: RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY (particularly involving ritual abuse of chil- colleges & universities. Two Suns Media. PPR. dren) that have sprung up since the 1980s, In her artful, affecting documentary, film- the prevalence of satanic references in rock maker Kathy Leichter tries to understand The Devil We Know: An Objective Look at music, and the attitudes of Christians (espe- more about her late mother by sifting through the Prince of Darkness HHH cially the ) toward such mat- photographs, home movies, and audio record- (2013) 48 min. DVD: $169.95. Films Media Group. ters. Although the documentary sometimes ings. In 1958, Nora Williams married Franz PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62290-715-1. suffers from a sensationalist bent—jazzing up Leichter, a Holocaust survivor (his mother Satan and satanism remain staples of the subject with flashy graphics, film clips, died in a concentration camp) who went on popular culture even as the devil himself and artwork, as well as whiplash editing—it to become a New York state senator. Friends has steadily faded from serious discussion in also offers smart commentary from a variety and relatives remember Nora, a school admin- theological circles. A fast-paced documentary, of interviewees (including a priest). Recom- istrator, as bright, charming, and witty, but The Devil We Know looks at various aspects mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) starting in the 1970s, she began to suffer from of demonology, beginning with a histori- severe mood swings. Diagnosed with bipolar cal sketch of the devil’s evolution over the Thank God for Football! HHH disorder, Nora took medication and attended centuries. Early Scriptural allusions in such (2013) 157 min. DVD: $19.99. Christian a support group. Franz encouraged Nora to Jewish texts as the Book of Job to a figure Television Association (dist. by Vision Video). become more politically active, but she feared who served as God’s assistant are contrasted An interesting football-and-faith docu- that her marriage would suffer if she spent too much time outside the home (she did, however, print up for associates that read “Kiss Me, I Have a Mental Instability”). Over time, Nora’s depression worsened, par- ticularly after the death of her own mother. She tried different prescriptions and even electroshock therapy, but no one realized how hopeless Nora felt until she jumped to her death from the family’s 11th-story apart- ment. By engaging with the very materials she spent 16 years trying to avoid, Leichter has been able to move forward. A powerful personal story, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) You Are in Charge of Your Body HHH1/2 (2013) 31 min. DVD: $185 (teacher’s guide included). Human Relations Media. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62706-021-9. Designed for grades 3-5, this important program takes a direct but age-appropriate approach to the subject of sexual abuse, featuring adult and kid actors who continue to remind viewers “don’t worry, we’ll only be acting.” Combining dramatic re-enact- ments with real-life kid commentary, and animated segments, You Are in Charge of Your Body is primarily divided into three sections with vignettes that are followed by a sum- mary/review incorporating advice on how to deal with situations. “Recognizing Sexual Abuse” addresses body boundaries (the bath- ing suit parts), warning signs (even without actual touching), and emphasizes the fact

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 55 VIDEO LIBRARIAN such as families who no longer speak to them. HHH One youthful mother’s travails appear to Heaven in Sight consist of not being able to hail a taxi to ac- (2013) 100 min. DVD: $19.99. Christian Faith Ministries (dist. by Vision Video). commodate her and a very large and colorful child’s coupe (a tricycle with a cab). Despite In this video autobiography and concert, blind Christian taking on a topic worth exploring, the lack pianist and composer Peter Jackson of shares his story of context here makes this an optional pur- of faith and determination while also intermittently playing chase. Aud: C, P. (F. Gardner) favorite hymns—as well as jazz and classical pieces—before a live audience in Fraserburgh, Scotland. We learn that Jackson lost his vision as a result of contracting measles, and since his parents Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder felt ill-equipped to raise a sightless child, he was removed from Story HHH home at the age of 2 and cared for by a social service agency. (2013) 61 min. DVD: $195: high schools & public Struggling with sadness and feeling unloved, Jackson found salvation upon hearing libraries; $295: colleges & universities. Transit his first piano notes—and a song about Jesus—when he was 4. Not only was the sound Media. PPR. of the instrument revelatory, but also the message about a God who loved all boys and The Allied conquest of Germany at the end girls, including him. Talking about his education—which initially included prayers of WWII led to the birth of approximately and learning to read and write Braille in equal measure—Jackson says that he felt a 100,000 illegitimate babies between Ger- personal connection not just to God but also to teachers who were kind and lived their man women and Allied occupation soldiers, faith. Eventually, music lessons were added to his educational regimen, and during his almost 5,000 of whom were mixed-race teenage years he was playing parties and clubs, inspired by such greats as Fats Waller. “mischlingskinder” children, fathered by Jackson also went through the normal rebellion of most teenagers, even moving away black servicemen. Filmmaker-narrator Regina from God; but then returned to his religious roots with a fervor that led him to make Griffin finds multiple ironies in the lives of ministry a full-time pursuit. Offering an inspiring account of an unusual spiritual these innocent kids. Although the scandal of journey, this is recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block) “brown babies” was culturally discomfiting to Aryan-blond Germans, it became appall- ingly clear (even to members of the Third mentary, Thank God for Football! chronicles get more out of the celebrations by under- Reich) that the U.S. was a mercilessly racist the birth of soccer in the U.K., while also standing relevant Gospel passages, this guide society, a place where such children would focusing on the Christian organizations that explains the cycle of Gospel readings that find no welcome either. A flawed heroine here embraced—and helped develop—the game take place during Lent, with specific purposes is the late Mabel Grammer, a light-skinned during its early years. Historian Peter Lupson linked to different Sunday services. Along the Afro-American socialite who undertook a tells the stories of 12 clubs in exhaustive way, viewers learn about the “scrutinies,” rites personal mission to place the unwanted chil- detail with highlight footage sure to thrill tied to passages that encourage self-evaluation dren with accepting families. Unfortunately, aficionados. For example, viewers will learn and offer reminders about temptation and her DIY adoption system had its own share about the origins of the Aston Villa club—one the meaningfulness of Jesus’s resurrection of problems, and we meet siblings Dan and of the most winning teams—which started in the daily lives of Christians. Also touching Sonja Cardwell, who went from Germany to a with Bible students at a Wesleyan chapel, who on the need to renew Baptismal promises, miserable existence as farm laborers in Mary- first played together on a cricket team (four the meaning of transfiguration, and the land (Dan tells a particularly poignant story of them were intrigued by a new thing called last days of Christ and his prophecy of “end about his search for his true birth mother). “association football” and decided to give it times,” this will serve as a solid springboard Combining interviews and archival material, a go). Presented alongside the sports history for group discussion or personal reflection. Brown Babies shines a light on a little-covered but accounting for much less of the running Recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) chapter from WWII. Recommended. Aud: C, time is a message about the importance of P. (C. Cassady) Christian faith, values, and worship to players and officials alike. Host and narrator Lupson SOCIAL & POLITICAL ISSUES Building Babel HHH1/2 appears on location, backed by archival foot- (2012) 58 min. DVD: $79.95: public libraries; age, photographs, and drawings, as well as $295 w/PPR: colleges & universities. Seventh Art dramatic re-enactments. The chapters here HH Releasing. can be played in their entirety, or accessed Bittersweet Joke 1/2 Director David Osit’s fly-on-the-wall docu- (2011) 52 min. DVD: $390. Icarus Films. PPR. individually by the clubs, which include: mentary centers on Sharif El-Gamal, a New Barnsley, Everton, Fulham, , Man- Claiming to be “the first film to show the York City real estate developer whose inten- chester City, Southampton, Swindon Town, real lives and faces of unwed mothers and tion to build a Muslim community center in and Tottenham Hotspur. Recommended. their children in Korea,” this well-inten- Lower Manhattan—two blocks from Ground Aud: P. (C. Block) tioned effort from filmmaker Paik Yeonah Zero, where the World Trade Center collapsed nevertheless fails to quantify how South following the 9/11 terrorist attack—caused Through Lent & Easter Sunday with the Korean society’s treatment of single moms is local outrage. While El-Gamal is portrayed Gospels of Matthew and John HHH markedly different from that in other places as a well-meaning and even affable philan- (2013) 22 min. DVD: $24.99. Oblate Media around the globe (even though the country thropist determined to stop the demonizing (dist. by Videos With Values). PPR. ISBN: 978- is known for exporting babies for adoption of Muslims in America, his harshest critics 193214288-4. worldwide). The young women whose stories here regard him as tone deaf and insensitive This step-by-step overview of the impor- are highlighted in Bittersweet Joke are bright, to the pain of New Yorkers who lost loved tance of New Testament Gospels during the optimistic, funny, and opinionated, and they ones on 9/11 (the fact that those naysayers season of Lent (leading to Easter) begins with include activists in a nascent association es- are stereotyping an entire group of people as a reflection on the significance of Easter in tablished to fight for women’s rights. But the an enemy is an irony that is lost on them). Catholicism, noting that every other event documentary falls short in explaining what, Shot over two years, Building Babel captures in the church’s annual life actually springs exactly, are the obstacles they face, aside from the long process of moving this quixotic from Easter. Suggesting that Catholics will social pressure expressed in various ways, project along at its creator’s mounting ex-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 56 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 pense—despite facing official and unofficial attempt to stay relevant and in the public eye? obstacles—and it reflects El-Gamal’s mood McGreevy himself notes that a dangerous swings throughout, from hope to despair. blend of ego and exhibitionism draws many We see him pray with his family, hold people into politics and the priesthood. In a press conferences, deal with his wife’s am- longer film, Pelosi might have been able to bivalence, chide an imam for grandstanding explore these issues in more detail, but as it is, during a meeting, and constantly talk to the Fall to Grace is recommended only for regional media, which has a field day after El-Gamal’s collections, and is optional elsewhere. Aud: troubled youth is revealed. “Our community C, P. (C. Cassady) is closeted; we’re not practicing being good Americans,” says El-Gamal at one point. Global Food Equity HHH Building Babel powerfully illustrates why that (2012) 20 min. DVD: $129.95. VEA (dist. by Films practice is so hard. Highly recommended. Media Group). PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1- Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) 62290-046-6. Presenter Georgia Daoud mingles in a Fall to Grace HH1/2 crowded open market while talking about (2013) 46 min. DVD: $19.98. HBO Home global imbalances in access to food in Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). this short documentary that also features Shoehorning a lot of material into a too- interviews with experts including Jennifer brief running time, this documentary short Evans of the Australian Red Cross, Shen from politics-watcher Alexandra Pelosi (Jour- Narayanasamy from the aid group Oxfam In- neys with George) centers on disgraced former ternational, Dr. Claire Melamed of the global New Jersey governor Jim McGreevey—a rising movement ActionAid, and Peter Goossens star of the Democratic party (with possible from the Somalia World Food Program. Glob- White House aspirations)—who was publicly al Food Equity looks at why some people don’t outed in 2004 in an extramarital homosexual have access to safe and nutritious food, with affair that became a scandal. McGreevey’s at- reasons ranging from insufficient finances tempt at a stirring mea culpa speech as a “gay to distribution problems. The statistics here American” earned more jeers from late-nite indicate that 1 in 7 people go to bed hungry comics than respect, and he subsequently left (even though so much food is wasted), with office. McGreevey then went into an Episco- those affected including individuals who are pal seminary (finding no acceptance within isolated, low-income, disabled, and mired in his own Catholic Church) for three years and war conflicts. Global food inequities lead to emerged with a new image, as an un-closeted inflated prices, as well as malnutrition and gay-activist cleric (and would-be priest) who obesity, and impacted economies. While conducted highly public outreach programs naturally offering no magic solutions—al- for women prisoners and addicts, and often though it does present some good ideas about found himself in the midst of New Jersey’s sharing technology, and working together to black community—home to his strongest combat dwindling resources—this is sure to former constituents. The big question: is this spur discussion. Recommended. Aud: H, C, new mission sincere, or just a grandstanding P. ( J. Williams-Wood)

Greedy Lying Bastards HHH (2013) 94 min. DVD: $19.98. The Disinformation Company/TDC (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-1-939517-15-9. According to this documentary by filmmaker and activist Craig Rosebraugh, climate change has been anticipated for at least a couple of generations. In fact, segments from a 1950s educational video here predict much of what has come to pass, including melting ice caps, extreme weather phenomena, and out-of-control wildfires. That vintage excerpt also suggests the underlying rea- sons: namely, the unrelenting exploitation of fossil fuels. Greedy Lying Bastards asks a pivotal question: if we knew this was coming, why didn’t we try to prevent it? Rosebraugh looks at decades of successful efforts by the oil and gas industries to shape public opinion and lead government policy away from the acceptance of climate change as a growing reality, denying everything while hiring legions of skeptics to testify that nothing is wrong. Entire careers in denial have been crafted, some of them bordering on the cartoonish, such as that of conservative British pundit Christopher Monckton, who denies global warming at every oppor- tunity. Besides explaining how a concerted push by big business (including massive donations to the campaigns of key elected U.S. representatives) has won the day so far, the documentary also provides ample evidence of the ongoing destructive processes at work in the Arctic, in the drought- and fire-plagued U.S. West, and in the shifting everyday weather patterns across the globe. Climate change isn’t just “coming,” we’re reminded, it’s already here. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 57 VIDEO LIBRARIAN HHH judge is sympathetic to their concerns, but that often rivaled parades in their size and Heart of Sky, Heart of Earth the timing of the suit proves problematic—by (2012) 98 min. DVD: $295. Umbrella Films (dist. scope. Although shifting attitudes and rising by Bullfrog Films). PPR. ISBN: 1-93777-245-4. waiting two years to pursue legal action, expenses have taken a contemporary toll on the litigants end up with a limited range of Filmmakers Frauke Sandig and Eric Black’s Owens’ business, he manages to keep this im- options. The Hill documents the trial, deci- documentary offers a caustic critique of the portant community tradition alive, aided by sion, and paths that the participants end up ecological destruction caused by mining his adult sons. Turner wisely avoids showing taking in its wake. Telling a timely human and deforestation in Mexico and Guatemala, the more graphic aspects of preparing a body story about the potential downsides of urban while also serving up a poetic evocation of for burial (instead, Owens carefully explains planning, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. the traditional spirituality of the indigenous how embalming fluid works, comparing it (K. Fennessy) peoples in the region—especially the Maya, to Botox in its ability to remove the signs who view the devastation as a rupture of the of aging). A heartfelt, deeply invigorating proper relationship between man and nature, Homegoings HHH1/2 portrait, this is highly recommended. Aud: presaging disaster. Along the way, six young (2013) 56 min. DVD: $24.95: individuals; $49.95: C, P. (P. Hall) public libraries & high schools; $195: colleges & Mayans talk about both the racism they have universities. California Newsreel. PPR. Closed faced and government military action against captioned. Life and Death in Assisted Living their people, while also describing their Christine Turner’s PBS-aired POV docu- HHH personal journeys to their ancient mentary primarily focuses on the work of (2013) 60 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). PBS rituals and a life in accordance with the natu- Isaiah Owens, founder of the Owens Funeral Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-963-6. ral order. One young man, for example, has Home in Harlem, NY. Owens recalls his life- With Baby Boomers aging, assisted liv- chosen to live in the forest and practice the time fascination with mortuary sciences, ing facilities have become a multibillion old ways, while a young woman, who found dating back to his childhood in rural South dollar industry. In this PBS-aired Frontline herself mistreated when she attempted to Carolina, where he would stage funerals for documentary, correspondent A.C. Thompson assimilate, has returned to traditional dress. dead animals (Owens also runs an establish- investigates this weakly regulated business Their stories are tied together by recitations ment in his hometown, where his 95-year-old sector that has become “the rock we don’t from creation myths drawn from Mayan mother works part-time as a receptionist). want to look under.” Of particular concern texts, set against haunting landscapes and Owens’ story serves as a foundation for a is Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, which skies. Scenes showing that even historically wider exploration of long-held customs affects one in five Americans at some point. significant sites are being reduced to rubble related to African-American funeral rites. Under pressure by Wall Street to remain prof- by bulldozers take on particular poignancy The Jim Crow era forced black communities itable, flagship companies such as Emeritus here, although the spirit of Heart of Sky, Heart to handle their own arrangements for tak- have not only cut corners, but their low-paid of Earth is more elegiac than angry—express- ing care of their dead, which over the years staff members are also not really qualified ing a mournful yet dignified attitude toward led to a protocol that involved boisterous to care for the special needs of Alzheimer’s those who cannot comprehend the conse- memorial services celebrating the departed, residents. This film details several tragedies, quences of their destruction. Recommended. coupled with widely attended processions including a former pro football star who Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) The Hill HHH (2013) 60 min. DVD: $99.95: public libraries; It’s a Girl HHH1/2 $310: colleges & universities. The Cinema Guild. (2012) 63 min. DVD: $24.95: individuals; $39: public libraries; $295 PPR. ISBN: 0-7815-1444-4. w/PPR: colleges & universities. Shadowline Films (avail. from www. Filmmaker Lisa Molomot’s documentary itsagirlmovie.com). Closed captioned. The Hill focuses on the citizens of Prospect Director Evan Grae Davis’s disquieting documentary sheds Park—a mixed-race district—who not only light on the practice of gendercide in India and China. It’s a protested a plan for urban redevelopment, Girl opens with an Indian woman who killed eight of her infant but also took their dispute to federal court. daughters because she was hoping for a son. While she may have Rather than renovate two area high schools, been acting on a cultural preference, it’s hard to sympathize officials in New Haven, CT, decided to raze with her actions—no matter how neatly she buried the bodies. three blocks in order to build one magnet But Davis wisely continues to take a non-inflammatory tone school, an action that would displace 94 fami- towards this upsetting topic, using animated drawings along the way to illustrate sta- lies. From the city’s perspective, construction tistics, including the shocker that one out of four Indian girls do not live past puberty. would create jobs and also allow for the ex- Sons can bring prosperity to parents through the antiquated dowry system, but since pansion of the Yale-New Haven Hospital, but marriage-age daughters represent a financial loss, poorer families see them as a drain residents on “the Hill” fear the higher costs on their resources. Other unwanted girls meet their ends through abandonment and of living elsewhere. As the film begins, some abortion in a situation that activist Rita Banerji describes as “systemic negligence.” In have sold their homes, while others are hold- China, the one-child policy, which went into effect in 1979, has produced similar out- ing out. One resident notes that he has paid comes, including forced abortion and sterilization. Although rural families may have off his mortgage, and has no incentive to start two children, many also hope for boys. When a woman named Li and her husband all over again (he’s also visually impaired, and had a third girl, they left their children with relatives and went into hiding, hoping has memorized the complete interior of his to reunite with them someday. The consequences for parents who break the law in- house). Another man, who runs a diner, has clude steep fines and a lack of citizenship (and its attendant benefits) for their “extra” been losing money as customers are moving children, but the subsequent shortage of women for men to marry has led to a rise in away. Some who originally supported the kidnapping and sex-trafficking. Some of the white-collar subjects here experience more development change their minds after they positive outcomes, but they also have greater financial means at their disposal with see how poorly the implementation is going, which to fight cultural and policy norms. DVD extras include extended interviews, and a coalition is formed to hire a civil rights behind-the-scenes featurettes, and a discussion guide. Highly recommended. Aud: C, attorney and file suit against the city and the P. (K. Fennessy) Board of Education. On the plus side, the

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 58 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 MAGIC LANTERN The Machine Which Makes Everything Disappear HHH (2012) 101 min. DVD: $29.98. Icarus Films Home Video (avail. from most distributors). The mournful reality of life in post-Soviet Georgia is the subject HHHH of this anecdotal documentary by Tinatin Gurchiani, who put out a call for people aged 15-25 to audition for roles in a movie, and then filmed their responses to her disarmingly probing Highly— recommended!Video Librarian questions, which reveal a pervasive attitude of demoralization resulting from both the country’s abject poverty and the shadow of its repeated wars. In some cases, Gurchiani expands on the impromptu interviews by following the subjects to their homes and filming brief segments of their day-to-day lives—including a boy working on his struggling family’s small farm, and a young man prevented from joining the army by a criminal conviction who traipses from one friend to another beseeching them to visit his imprisoned brother. The only false note comes near the end, when a young woman confronts her mother, who abandoned the family years earlier; their meeting ends in hysterical weeping that comes across as contrived (especially since the girl is an acting student). But overall this is a moving depiction of the desperation that per- vades Georgian society in the aftermath of the fall of the USSR. The title, incidentally, comes from a question about what one might choose to make disappear if the titular Inside illegal Mongolian mining. “Terrifying!” —The New York Times machine actually existed. DVD extras include an interview with Gurchiani. Recom- mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)

escaped his memory care wing and died after this population is uncertain—the number HHHH swallowing industrial strength dishwashing cited here is approximately 18 million, with liquid; a woman who jumped (or fell) from more than 120,000 newcomers arriving each a second story window; and a case of severe year—but the degree of poverty and danger Highly— recommended!Video Librarian neglect in which a woman developed life- they face is clear. Sexual abuse by predators threatening bedsores. Former staffers recall and drug usage are matters of daily life, the lack of training and pressure to keep the and there is little evidence of government facilities fully occupied at all times, while also intervention to address the crisis, although noting that many dementia patients should Fischer does include a brief segment on In- not have been in an independent living fa- derjit Khurana, who runs a network of social cility in the first place, but are because they workers seeking to provide healthcare and can be charged higher rates for care. Terrible education to these youngsters. DVD extras incidents have led to time-consuming and include a photo gallery. Presenting a shock- emotionally-wrenching litigation, and view- ing overview of a grave social crisis, this is ers will hear testimony from the Emeritus recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) CEO, attorneys on both sides, whistleblowers, Group childrearing under Pinochet. and distraught family members. Offering Mothers of Bedford HHH1/2 “Fascinating!” — an urgent and timely report on a “ticking (2011) 96 min. DVD: $89: public libraries; $350: time bomb” that promises more injuries colleges & universities. Women Make Movies. PPR. and deaths, this is recommended. Aud: C, Eighty percent of American women in P. (S. Rees) prison are mothers of school-age children. Filmmaker Jenifer McShane explores how Lucky Express: India’s Forgotten Train programs at Bedford Hills Correctional Facil- Kids HHH ity—a maximum security penitentiary north (2013) 86 min. In English & Indian w/English of New York City—allow inmates to be moms subtitles. DVD: $19.95. Cinema Libre Studio to their kids, even over extended periods of (avail. from most distributors). incarceration. Filmed over four years, Mothers Filmmaker Anna Fischer’s documentary on of Bedford focuses on five women from diverse the homeless children who populate India’s backgrounds who have been convicted of vast network of railroad depots offers an crimes ranging from robbery to second- unusual insider view, thanks to the input degree murder, serving sentences from two of Vijay “Lucky” Bahadhur. Born in Nepal, to 15 years. None are career criminals, and Bahadhur escaped an abusive family at the viewers will likely empathize as they talk age of 5 and wound up at the central station about the actions and decisions that landed in New Delhi, where he fell into a Dickensian them in Bedford (their parents and children life as a chai wallah (tea server) pickpocket also share thoughts on what it’s like to have Depression in a Chilean family. within a juvenile gang. Today, he’s a film a daughter or mother in prison). Bedford’s “See this film!” —Boston Phoenix school student, but still retains an ability to model program provides classes, a baby nurs- with the new wave of young orphans ery, and guidance geared toward teens. Scenes who barely survive in and around the nation’s filmed in the Bedford’s Children’s Center MAGIC-LANTERN-FILMS . COM train platforms and stations. The extent of capture weekend visits, and Center founder

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 59 VIDEO LIBRARIAN textbooks inevitably portray the other side as being heinous villains, while children Two American Families HHH1/2 (2013) 90 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH take an active role in denigrating their captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-962-9. neighboring foes during nationalist holiday In the last few decades, working Americans have been whip- celebrations. A frank and disturbing portrait lashed by downsizing, outsourcing, and the slow erosion of the of neighboring peoples who prefer animosity American Dream, as many high-paying full-time positions have to brotherhood, this is recommended. Aud: been replaced by non-union, part-time jobs with no benefits. For C, P. (P. Hall) the past 20 years, PBS host Bill Moyers has periodically checked in with two families as they struggle to maintain their Pandora’s Promise HHHH foothold in the middle class: the Neumanns and the Stanleys, (2013) 80 min. DVD: $149 ($250 w/PPR). Kino who suffered a significant drop in income when the breadwin- Lorber Edu. ners’ jobs at a major manufacturer were outsourced to cheaper foreign labor. At first, In a media marketplace where anti-nuke the husbands and wives engage in further education and retraining, while juggling attitudes have reached critical mass, film- childrearing and bill-paying priorities. Eventually, however, both families wind up maker Robert Stone’s provocative docu- having to cope with a cascading set of problems, ranging from dealing with collection mentary—featuring nuclear engineers, as agencies and threats of home foreclosure, to subsequent job losses. Family members well as converted environmentalists who describe their feelings of hurt and loss of pride as they navigate a new reality of food are now in favor of atomic energy—offers pantries and rummage sales. Not surprisingly, there are anger issues, marital strife, a different take. Authors such as Gwyneth and family stress, as one spouse misses scout meetings and other important family Cravens, Richard Rhodes, and Whole Earth occasions, and night shifts leave little time together for the family. Moyers acknowl- Catalog founder Stewart Brand claim to have edges the role of the church and wider community support, but these benevolent thoroughly investigated atomic-energy tech- efforts are inevitably merely a band-aid on a life of living paycheck to paycheck and nology from both sides, and now consider it amassing credit card debt, while facing a future of lowered prospects and expectations. to be a sustainable and wise choice over cli- Offering a sobering and timely tale of lost dreams and dashed hopes, this is highly mate-devastating fossil fuels (wind, tidal, and recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees) solar power being inadequate to realistically meet needs). Pandora’s Promise argues that a large amount of anti-nuclear propaganda has been secretly underwritten by the oil and gas Sister Elaine Roulet notes that the time served timberlands in Alaska. The story of give-and- industries, and also suggests that meltdown gives some women the opportunity to admit take and compromise between all parties is sites such as Three Mile Island, Fukushima, that they weren’t “great” mothers and to heartening although hardly magical: at film’s and even the eerie ruins at Chernobyl, are not begin again—an observation borne out here end, many issues remain unresolved even as quite the uninhabitable wastelands depicted. in serious efforts to break cycles of addiction hugely profitable clear-cutting continues. France, an eco-conscious and politically pro- and neglect. It’s evident that families are Still, this is an inspiring film about people— gressive nation, converted to a nuclear-based strengthened through these efforts, which who don’t usually see eye to eye—looking for infrastructure and now has the cheapest and makes it particularly distressing to learn that a common cause, and with virtuosos such as cleanest power grid in Europe. It is truly a after filming was completed, the program’s Kaki King, Yo La Tengo, the Antlers, and Steve Through-the-Looking-Glass moment when budget was cut by 40 percent. Offering a Earle contributing to the soundtrack, the Margaret Thatcher, warning in 1989 against thought-provoking and inspirational look message here is particularly resonant. Highly CO2 emissions (nuclear power being her at an effective social program, this is recom- recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) solution) sounds like the voice of reason, mended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg) while opponents of nuclear power (with Dr. The Other Town HHH Helen Caldicott unfortunately looking like Musicwood HHH1/2 (2011) 45 min. In Greek & Turkish w/English a raving lunatic) are lumped in with global- (2012) 80 min. DVD: $99.95: public libraries; subtitles. DVD: $59.95: public libraries & high warming skeptics, Holocaust deniers, and $350: colleges & universities. The Cinema Guild. schools; $175: colleges & universities. Third World other enemies of science fact. Although some PPR. Newsreel. PPR. of the film’s points can certainly be debated, A story about beautiful guitars unexpect- Some neighbors just cannot get along. Pandora’s Promise provides much-needed bal- edly turns into a major environmental case Case in point: Greece and , whose ance on a hot topic. Highly recommended. study in this interesting documentary, during respective populations view each other with Editor’s Choice. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) which several top manufacturers—Gibson, a strident contempt that makes other ethnic Taylor, and Martin among them—overcome conflicts look like zany misunderstandings. competitiveness in order to work together Greek filmmaker Hercules Millas and Turkish TEEN ISSUES towards saving what is left of old-growth director Nefin Dinç have mercifully chosen forest in Southeast Alaska, a major source not to follow the examples of their country- of spruce for their instruments. Not surpris- men in their collaborative documentary that Sleepless Epidemic HHH ingly, the melodic sounds that come from the highlights how the residents of Dimitsana in (2013) 32 min. DVD: $79.95 (downloadable best acoustic guitars require different types Greece and Birgi in Turkey have successfully teacher’s guide available). Learning ZoneXpress. of wood: mahogany, rosewood, ebony—all kept the hatred alive. The enmity stems all PPR. Closed captioned. of which are in increasingly short supply the way back to the 1821 war that led to Hosted by author Mary Sheedy Kurcinen due to deforestation in various parts of the Greek independence after centuries of Otto- (Sleepless in America), this guidance program world. Filmmaker Maxine Trump shows how, man rule. Subsequent conflicts between the focuses on the benefits that adolescents in a kind of shotgun alliance, companies are nations have only added to the bitterness, receive from getting enough sleep at such a working with two adversaries, Greenpeace and today it seems impossible to find anyone crucial time during their development. Esti- and Sealaska (the latter a corporation manag- on either side who can say a positive word mating that only 15-20% of youths get the ing and selling Native American tribal assets), about folks across the border. These feelings rest they need, Sleepless Epidemic looks at vari- to find a solution to the mass destruction of are passed down across generations—school ous factors—such as the jump from younger

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 60 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 grades to junior high (where there’s more from teachers, students, and residents. At homework at night and an earlier start time Crellin Elementary School in Maryland, in the morning)—that might explain the children receive hands-on experience in difference between a normally irritable kid projects related to stream studies (which and a truly exhausted teen. Touting sleep are polluted due to acid mine damage in as a priority, Kurcinen shares good tips on the Appalachians), a playground makeover, setting your body clock seven days a week and tree planting. At the Young Achiev- (avoiding those weekend sleep-ins), possibly ers Science and Math Pilot in Mattapan downsizing commitments, eating breakfast (near Boston), urban kids learn about civic (and maybe a bedtime snack), reducing engagement and farm/orchard systems, TV/computer/phone screens (“your bed- and produce their own radio show. In room is not a place for technology”), and Howard, SD, teens unhappy about the lack developing a good nighttime ritual to help of entertainment talk with the 27-year-old the body reset. While this suffers somewhat mayor about options for keeping their from some stilted interviews with teens and money local. Also looking at projects at parents, it offers fine advice, overall, and the nonprofit career skills center Aprovecho is therefore recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. and alternative Kennedy High School in (J. Williams-Wood) Cottage Grove, OR, as well as a venture for making documentary shorts at the Watsonville High School Video Academy EDUCATION near Silicon Valley, Schools That Change Communities serves up solid examples of collaborative projects that produce real-life More Time to Teach: Building local benefits. Highly recommended. Aud: Community in a Challenging Classroom H, C, P. (J. Williams-Wood) HHH (2013) 21 min. DVD: $79.95 (teacher’s guide included). ChildSense. PPR. Closed captioned. LAW & CRIME ISBN: 978-0-615-83901-1. Educational coaches Jeff Fink and Jon Halpern share practical ideas in this pro- In a Town This Size HHH gram about building community in the (2011) 71 min. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features classroom in order to proactively manage (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. and avoid behavioral problems. Three vi- Bartlesville, Oklahoma—a well-off town gnettes here demonstrate how a teacher’s that is home to a populace of 35,000, and reaction to various behaviors can make a serves as the headquarters for Phillips Petro- dramatic difference in the instructional leum—is the setting for Patrick V. Brown’s environment. Each scenario is first pre- quietly devastating documentary, which sented with an undesirable adult reaction focuses on episodes of child abuse involving to a student’s action, after which viewers respected pediatrician Dr. Bill Dougherty Jr., are encouraged to pause, evaluate what who took advantage of numerous patients happened, and consider other methods of during the 1960s and ’70s. Supplemented dealing with the situation. The scene is then with archival material—stills, TV news repeated, with a more constructive educator clips, and newspaper articles—this sad story response. The examples illustrate straight- is primarily told through recollections by forward cause-and-effect methods that help those who were abused, and their relatives, build an atmosphere conducive to creating who grieve not only over the damage to their strong relationships between both teacher children’s lives but over their own failure and students, and among the youngsters to realize what was happening in the office themselves. The film demonstrates how and home of a trusted doctor and friend. shaming and making judgments—whether During a conversation with a therapist who good or bad—about individual kids can lead discusses the psychological effects of such to peer isolation, suggesting instead that in- cases, Brown reveals that he was one of structors stay focused on behavior. A simple Dougherty’s victims, and he eventually goes but powerful presentation that could inspire to the perpetrator’s house, receiving no re- meaningful change, this is recommended. sponse when he hammers on the front door. Aud: E, I, J, H. (K. Cruver) In a Town This Size importantly calls attention to the ineffectiveness of laws requiring those Schools That Change Communities victimized to bring charges within two years HHH1/2 of being abused—a loophole that allowed (2013) 58 min. DVD: $39: public libraries ($79 Dougherty to escape punishment. DVD ex- w/PPR); $195 w/PPR: colleges & universities. The tras include bonus interviews, deleted scenes, Video Project. Closed captioned. a resource guide, and an epilogue detailing Director Bob Gliner’s absorbing docu- the film’s screening at various festivals and in mentary about schools that incorporate Bartlesville. Offering a moving treatment of community-based activities in the curricu- a challenging subject, this is recommended. lum includes brainstorm-spurring stories Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 61 VIDEO LIBRARIAN societies were by definition primitive and conflict of interest. Although some scientifi- NATURE, MATH & SCIENCE backwards. Murphy makes reference to Jared cally-minded viewers are likely to question Diamond’s 1997 Pulitzer Prize-winning aspects of the methodology described here, nonfiction bestseller Guns, Germs, and , others will find this to be a solid discussion North America HHH which made the intricacies of geography a starter on a controversial topic. Recom- (2013) 2 discs. 329 min. DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: subject of fascination to the masses (well, mended. Aud: P. (C. Block) $34.99. Gaiam (avail. from most distributors). that and Google Maps). Extras include Tom Selleck narrates this seven-episode an instructor’s guide, and printable maps Smarter Brains HHH Discovery Channel-aired series showcas- and graphics. A fine companion series to (2013) 60 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). PBS ing breathtaking nature footage from the Murphy’s Human Geography: Making Sense of Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-942-1. “indomitable” North American continent Planet Earth (VL-11/13), this is highly recom- Our abilities to reason, solve problems, (Latin America counts here, for variety’s mended. Aud: H, C, P. (C. Cassady) and adapt to changing situations are part sake), often matched to alt-pop music. North of what makes us human. But how is intel- America’s basic point seems to be that U.S.- Resonance: Beings of Frequency HHH ligence acquired and can it be improved? region viewers need not go abroad to witness (2012) 88 min. DVD: $24.95. Patient Zero Films Peter Coyote narrates this PBS-aired docu- great wonders, offering fresh takes on com- (dist. by Janson Media). ISBN: 978-1-56839-455-3. mentary from filmmaker Jim Hoppin that mon critters including chipmunks (fighting Are artificially created radio waves killing examines the most complex and mysterious ferociously over their caches), garter snakes honeybees? Can cell phone towers cause organ in the human body. Different parts of (mating in a giant mass in Manitoba), and health problems? These concerns and oth- the brain carry out various functions, rang- coyotes (a Death Valley specimen actually ers are explored in this documentary that ing from handling the most primitive of does coexist with the road runner, but pre- plays like a real-life episode of The X-Files. activities, to using language, reasoning, and fers catching lizards and bugs over the bird). Starting with the premise that the Earth’s memory (at any given time, billions of neu- Nature also appears red in tooth and claw atmosphere has a “frequency” (called the rons are communicating in a process called here, as a baby humpback whale is killed by a “Schumann resonances,” which are excited “neuronal chatter”). Contrary to earlier be- pack of orcas, wild mustangs violently battle by thunderstorms across the globe) that is liefs, new scientific evidence shows that the for mates, and several species of predators identical to one created by alpha waves in human brain is always evolving, and can be munch on tiny sea-turtle hatchlings. The the human brain, Resonance makes a case improved at any age. Scientists are busy with next-to-last episode focuses on the actual that manufactured sources of other frequen- a fresh initiative called the “Human Brain wildlife cinematographers and their reac- cies (of greatest concern here: mobile phone Project,” using computers to map the brain tions to what they’ve filmed, while the finale technology) are disrupting nature, with in order to find out more about how it works counts down a poll of the home-audience’s health effects ranging from interfering with and why it breaks down. Like cardiovascular top 10 favorite North American wild places. circadian rhythms to causing cancer. The exercise for the body, brains also need to Extras include select episode commentaries interviews included are compelling—some stay in shape so that people can “be as smart by the filmmakers, and a narration-less op- people are so sensitive to emissions that they as you can be at any age.” Some ways to keep tion. A solid but not especially groundbreak- have created rooms with special shielding the brain healthy include physical exercise, ing nature travelogue series—more notable (even in the glass) to give them space in their “active experiencing,” and meeting new for its gorgeous imagery than its lackluster home that is free of electromagnetic (EM) challenges (whether it be acting, dancing, narration—this is recommended, overall. radiation. Others share their experiences or learning sign language), or just getting Aud: P. (C. Cassady) related to drastically dropping bee popula- out to meet others, and trading memories tions and speculate on the possibility of EM and perceptions. Offering a solid mix of Physical Geography: Making Sense of as a cause. And some talk about how studies information and encouragement, this guide HHH dismissing any possible harm were poorly to understanding and nurturing the brain is Planet Earth 1/2 conducted or funded by companies with a recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees) (2012) 4 discs. 232 min. DVD: $199.99 (teacher’s guide included). Ambrose Video Publishing. PPR. Closed captioned. Noted geographer Dr. Alexander B. Mur- How I Became an Elephant HHH1/2 phy, a professor at the University of Oregon, (2013) 82 min. DVD: $19.99: individuals; $49: public libraries & high is the perfect host for this engaging eight- schools; $149: colleges & universities. Green Planet Films. PPR. Closed part series (Murphy has followed in the captioned. footsteps of his father, who contributed an Juliette West cares passionately about elephants, so much so innovative map to the classic Goode’s World that she and her father travel from their suburban California Atlas). Murphy explains how the science of home to Thailand to witness close-up the abuse inflicted on geography broke away from geology during animals in captivity and to help Thai activist Lek Chailert rescue the 19th and 20th centuries to become a victim named Ratree. Filmmakers Tim Gorski and Synthian “human geography,” i.e., studies of how Sharp follow then-14-year-old Juliette, who was aware of the terrain shapes the cultural and economic pachyderms’ plight before her trip to a country that is known for development of humankind—and, vice “loving” elephants but also subjects them to abuse that appears to be ingrained in Thai versa, as human beings today are able to culture. The animals are beaten, starved, and struck with harpoon-like hooks that leave drastically alter the environment. Touring deep wounds as they are trained for seemingly benign uses such as carrying riders on the world, Physical Geography addresses the treks or painting pictures with their trunks. Ratree, confined with chains and forced plate tectonics model of continental drift; repeatedly to mate, has a broken hip as the result of a violent coupling. How I Became the “hydrologic cycle” as exemplified by an Elephant is sometimes tough to watch (with hidden-camera footage of beasts being the catastrophic flooding of Nashville in hideously treated), but it powerfully documents Juliette’s odyssey, which has sparked 2010; the impact of landscape on the ancient a movement to increase awareness of the problem. DVD extras include deleted scenes, civilizations of Rome and the Mayans; and and comments from primatologist Jane Goodall on the importance of hope. Highly the fallacy of “geographical determinism,” recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Gardner) which once dictated that jungle-dwelling

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 62 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Sponsored by BayView Entertainment Wild Things with Dominic Monaghan: Deadliest Critters HHH (2013) 180 min. DVD: $14.98. BBC Worldwide Ltd. (avail. from most distributors). Although it is not self-evident from the DVD cover, this BBC-Canadian series focuses more often than not on the littler species in the animal kingdom, which may be fitting since it’s hyper-enthusiastically hosted by Brit actor Dominic Monaghan, best known for his supporting role as a diminutive hobbit in The Lord of the Rings series. Here, the “deadly” predator animals showcased include a scorpion, an ant, and a water beetle. But even if it comes across as a bit of a tongue-in-cheek affair—less Crocodile Hunter than Leech Whisperer—kudos should go to adrenaline-junkie Monaghan for pulling it all off with solid dashes of travelogue and pop science. The first destination is Guatemala, where Monaghan handles the rare Mexican beaded lizard, which is the only venomous lizard beside the Gila monster. In Namibia, he seeks the black thick-tailed scorpion PEEL OFF THE POUNDS PILATES (seen glowing in ultraviolet light). In Ecuador, he explores the rainforest canopies BAY454 $14.99 and undergrowth, looking for the notorious swarming army ant. And in Vietnam he Fitness legend Kathy Smith presents a new workout confronts a variety of snakes and crocodiles (Monaghan seems to be quite the reptile DVD that uses the power of Pilates to kick fat burning enthusiast) before finally glimpsing the giant water bug in situ, preying on fish in a into high gear. After a vigorous warm-up, you’ll start murky lake. A somewhat gonzo but still worthwhile nature series, this is recommended. off with a jazzy dance-based fat burning workout Aud: P. (C. Cassady) followed by upper body sculpting and lower body strengthening that maximize weight loss potential and the corresponding health beneets. The upper and HEALTH & FITNESS Leslie Sansone—Just Walk: Walk it Off lowerlo body sections also incorporate core work for total in 30 Days HHH1/2 conditioning. A relaxing cool down/stretch segment is (2013) 64 min. DVD: $14.98. Anchor Bay also present for a complete tness program. Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). The Genius of Marian HHH Closed captioned. (2013) 84 min. DVD: $95: high schools & public Bubbly instructor Leslie Sansone brims libraries; $295 w/PPR: colleges & universities. with enthusiasm during this presentation of Ro*co Films Educational. two fast-paced 30-minute walking-in-place When filmmaker Banker White started workouts. Sansone’s six-days-a-week program filming in 2009, his 61-year-old mother, alternates a “burn” routine, which focuses Pamela White—a former model and social on fitness walking, with a “firm” sequence, worker—was working on a book about her which covers toning. Sansone shares her own mother, painter Marian Williams Steele. philosophy and explains the basics of her Pam would abandon the project after she regime, which was partially molded by found out she had Alzheimer’s disease—the feedback she received from fans via social same illness that led to Steele’s death in 2001. media. The soundtrack can be played with Banker continued to document his mother’s her instructions or music only, the latter a life over the next three years. At first, Pam handy option once the pattern has become refuses to acknowledge the diagnosis even familiar. A refreshingly diverse group of as she loses the ability to drive and read assistants demonstrate how people of differ- books, although she still meets regularly with ent ages, genders, and abilities approach the INTIMACY SPA PRESENTS her singing group. She also rejects having a exercises, and they’re a remarkably fired-up SENSUAL YOGA FOR COUPLES professional caregiver, so her husband, Ed, bunch, with Sansone’s encouragement add- BAY550 $14.99 opts to work from home in order to look after ing considerable energy to the proceedings. Following the yoga practices in this DVD will make her. Ed says he doesn’t mind, but as the years The steps, lifts, stretches, and kicks—all your body exible and strong while drawing clarity pass, resentment begins to kick in, since he performed at an increasing pace—are intense and peace into your mind. Couples will nd their has to help his wife with almost everything. and will definitely work up a sweat. Also emotions connecting and resonating with a deeper featuring floor work in the toning section The children do what they can, but Ed still harmony with the regular practice of couple’s yoga. feels isolated (the couple refer to each other (which requires an exercise mat, although hand weights are deemed “optional”), this This can also improve quality of life by bringing as “Mom” and “Dad,” which says something renewed health, deeper intimacy, and more pleasure about their passion for parenting). Pam “faster, smarter fitness” workout is highly for each other. Exploring these creative and sensual doesn’t want to end up in a facility like her recommended. Aud: P. (K. Cruver) mother, but she does finally learn to accept practices can add both tenderness and power to your some outside help. The Genius of Marian is Tracie Long—Focus Series: Kickback relationship. Contains mild nudity. not an easy film to watch, and the handheld HHH camerawork can feel invasive, but there is (2013) 30 min. DVD: $9.98. Shelter Island/TDC real psychological value in this profile, which (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-1- not only never sugarcoats the debilitations 939517-10-4. of Alzheimer’s, but also underscores the toll Instructor Tracie Long jumps right into Order from your distributor or that the illness takes on friends and relatives. the workout in this volume from her Focus call BayView at 201-488-6110 WWW. BAYVIEWENTERTAINMENT. COM Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) series. Suggesting both light and medium-

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 63 VIDEO LIBRARIAN his country’s children in December 2012. Made by the Rascos, the film chronicles the Rodney Yee: Yoga for Your Week HHH1/2 (2013) 100 min. DVD: $14.98. Gaiam (available from most distributors). numerous obstacles to gaining legal custody of Joshua, which required multiple trips to Veteran yoga teacher Rodney Yee brings his characteristically Russia at the couple’s expense. Viewers wit- peaceful approach to this compilation of five 20-minute routines. ness that drawn-out process here step-by-step, Each section is tailored to achieve specific results, including in- as scenes build suspense about the ultimate creasing energy, strength, and flexibility. Yee works on a simple outcome while also capturing the Rascos’ platform set up on a deserted beach, where the soothing rhythm drive and love. Even if adopting Russian of the ocean waves provides an effective soundtrack for both his children is currently no longer an option for movements and the natural ebb and flow of breath necessary Americans, this heartwarming documentary for a successful practice. Narration provides basic instruction, which is probably most effective for those who already have could inspire some to look to other nations some yoga experience, although it should not be too difficult for alert beginners to where youngsters without families hope catch on. The program is bookended with morning warm-up and evening cool-down to find a real home. DVD extras include a routines. Yee is an encouraging presence, exuding calm and strength, and frequently featurette about the adoption experience of flashing a smile at his students. With several basic poses and a fair number of more another family (in China), and tips related challenging positions, this should satisfy a wide range of abilities. Highly recom- to international adoption. Highly recom- mended. Aud: P. (K. Cruver) mended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) to-heavier weights (Long tells viewers when advocating for a new paradigm in healthcare RELATIONSHIPS & SEXUALITY to “heavy up” during the routine), Kickback seems mainly to rehash—in bullet-point starts off with a cardio interval that includes style—the conclusions of earlier feature- slow jabs/squat sequences, upper cuts, hooks, length films such as Forks Over Knives (VL- Children of Srikandi HHH rowing, cross-block, and a “jab and jack” 9/11), Food, Inc. (VL-11/09), and The Future (2012) 74 min. In Indonesian w/English subtitles. combo. The lower-body weight training of Food (VL-1/06). Still, this makes for a solid DVD: $29.99: individuals; $295: institutions. segment features moves such as sidekicks, compact primer, as viewers are reminded that Outcast Films. PPR. pulses, plies, side lunges, and step-squats; modern medicine tends to treat symptoms Made by young female filmmakers, this and the matwork floor section presents (and makes Big Pharma rich), instead of pro- compilation of eight short films exploring ab-focused moves, along with side plank, moting general well-being—or “vitality,” as , bisexual, and transgender identity push ups, and hip-presses, plus straddle defined in Dr. Shojai’s holistic/preventative in Indonesia (which has the world’s largest stretching at the close. While the dance-y, worldview. According to Shojai, stress, lack Muslim population) combines dramatic club-ish soundtrack doesn’t altogether mesh of proper sleep, and eating a conventional scenes with symbolic or poetic expressions of with the tempo of the moves, this workout American diet (including ghastly “fast food” thoughts on diversity and acceptance. Billed could burn calories and improve balance. from livestock animals that are fattened on as an anthology and divided into chapters, Other titles in the Focus series include Lift non-nourishing castoffs to save money) all the directors here are identified only as “the Higher and Power Up. Recommended. Aud: P. contribute to some of the more pernicious children of the Srikandi Collective.” In one (J. Williams-Wood) medical syndromes. Organic and small of the more effective pieces, a young woman farms offer better food options, and for those describes her transition from polite Muslim Treat Yourself Therapy: Thumb CMC who are lucky enough to live near a local conformist to becoming an out lesbian; over time, her clothing changes to reflect her Arthritis HH1/2 farm-market, prices can be competitive with (2011) 30 min. DVD: $35. Treat Yourself Therapy. the GMO-stuffed corporate agri-product. changing perspectives on God and sexuality. ISBN: 978-1-4507-9438-1. High-profile diet and medical guru-authors In another, a gay law student talks about life Certified hand therapists Jessica Karge and appearing here include Dr. Bruce Lipton, Dr. on the streets following her family’s rejection. Kathleen Papi-Baker present this program Hyla Cass, Eliezar Ben Joseph, and Dr. Tim And one offers a humorous look at the range on managing the symptoms of a degenera- Brown. Serving up a solid side dish that will of words that women might use to describe tive joint condition known as thumb CMC supplement the main course of longer related their diversity. Interspersed throughout are arthritis. Describing the different stages, documentaries, this is recommended. Aud: beautifully filmed scenes of a traditional the pair show viewers how to ameliorate P. (C. Cassady) Indonesian puppet show about the legendary symptoms with treatments including a moist Srikandi, who was born a girl but became a heating pad, paraffin baths, massaging, man, as well as backstage interviews with splinting, range-of-motion exercises, cold CHILDBIRTH & PARENTING the (“I’m neither a man nor a packs, and strengthening techniques. Some woman”) and a male singer (who performs of the advice sounds obvious (“avoid activi- in traditional feminine costume). Serving up provocative personal perspectives on ties which require forceful pinching”), and Bringing Joshua Home HHH1/2 the fairly heavy commercial content—with (2013) 25 min. DVD: $14.99. Ideal Images LGBT issues, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. onscreen blurbs for specific websites or item Entertainment (dist. by Vision Video). (M. Puffer-Rothenberg) brands—detracts from the useful information This short documentary looks at the featured here. Still, given the dearth of similar lengthy and costly process of adopting a Undressing Israel: Gay Men in the material on this specific subject, this should Russian orphan—a complex business, espe- Promised Land HHH1/2 be considered a strong optional purchase. cially if the prospective parents happen to (2013) 46 min. In English & Hebrew w/English Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) be American. The subject of Bringing Joshua subtitles. DVD: $19.99. Breaking Glass Pictures Home is North Carolina couple Arthur and (avail. from most distributors). Vitality HHH Hanna Rasco’s adoption of baby Joshua from This jaunty, informative documentary ex- (2012) 55 min. DVD: $19.99. Virgil Films (avail. a Moscow orphanage, which occurred before tols Israel’s progressiveness on LGBT issues, from most distributors). Closed captioned. Russian president Vladimir Putin signed especially regarding homosexual males. Ac- Dr. Pedram Shojai’s hour-shy documentary into law a bill banning U.S. adoptions of knowledging that Israel’s liberalness might

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 64 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 surprise some, filmmaker Michael Lucas nard’s breezy documentary about wine- damaged by weather extremes. It turns out provides both anecdotal and statistical making in the Burgundy region of central that the personalities of winemakers are evidence suggesting that in recent decades France. A Year in Burgundy follows the reflected in their practices and attitudes, the nation has accelerated changes in laws travels of Martine Saunier, a French native raising the question of whether making and policies to make life more open for ev- who imports wines (from families she has wine is an art or a craft, as well as whether eryone. Drawing on numerous interviews, known for generations) to her adopted it is better to be freewheeling or academic Undressing Israel finds affirmative answers to city of San Francisco, and each year visits in one’s approach. Viewers will see vast questions about the legality of homosexu- her suppliers back home. Wine has been wooden wine presses that are still standing ality in Israel, the ability to be open about made in Burgundy for 2,000 years, thank- after centuries, while also delving down sexual orientation during required military fully kept alive during the Dark Ages by into ancient cellars full of dusty, cobwebbed service, the rights to marry and have chil- the needs of Christian monasteries and bottles, along the way also learning some- dren and to hold positions in government, communion services. Saunier’s meetings thing about the cultivation and harvest- and much else. Prime Minister Benjamin with various suppliers reveal much about ing of grapes (the latter of which requires Netanyahu’s positive references to gays and winemaking practices, including optimum armies of temporary workers to get the job in recent speeches (including one at times and methods for taking grapes from done). Likely to appeal to oenophiles and the United Nations) are cited, as well as of- the vine, techniques for pressing and fer- armchair travelers, this is highly recom- ficial sanction for an annual Gay Pride event menting, as well as what to do with grapes mended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) that draws tens of thousands from around the world. The documentary focuses almost exclusively on attractive guys with beautiful bodies, but all are well-spoken and many are successfully raising kids in long-term relationships. DVD extras include audio commentary with Lucas, and a film festival Q&A montage. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) FOOD & SPIRITS

Dare to Cook: Barbecue & Grilling HHH (2013) 74 min. DVD or Blu-ray: $24.95. Bennett- Watt HD Productions. PPR. ISBN: 978-1-60490- 075-0 (dvd), 978-1-60490-109-2 (blu-ray). Seattle-area Chef Tom Small offers his tips on cooking meat in this primer that includes techniques for barbecuing, grilling, and smoking. An admitted aficionado of the “sport” of BBQ (some people even think of it as a lifestyle), Small explains the distinction between BBQ (indirect heat over low temp) and grilling (high heat), looks at different cuts of meat (demonstrating how to rip the mem- brane off, and noting that it’s the marbling fat inside the meat that adds flavor, not the excess on the outside), and contrasts vertical electrical vs. trigger pellet smokers, while also explaining why he uses a gas grill (mainly, for convenience). Serving up spareribs, pork shoulder, hot links, brisket, and chicken, Small spruces up the recipes here with various sauces and rubs for those who want sweet or spicy, or fancier seasoning (including a citrus Cuban marinade, red eye coffee glaze, and In- dian-style concoction with yogurt and garam masala). Also including a printed ingredient list, this informative addition to the Dare to Cook instructional series is recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)

A Year in Burgundy HHH1/2 (2013) 88 min. In English & French w/English subtitles. DVD: $29.95. Kino Lorber (avail. from most distributors). Wine enthusiasts will enjoy David Ken-

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 65 VIDEO LIBRARIAN THE ARTS Brewed in Brooklyn HHH1/2 (2013) 45 min. DVD: $24.95. Delaware Valley Video (dist. by Janson Media). ISBN: 978-1-56839-463-3. “You could argue that Brooklyn was the brewing capital of Bill Cosby: Far From Finished HHH the United States,” says one expert in filmmaker John Weber’s (2013) 95 min. DVD: $16.99, Blu-ray: $19.99. well-crafted documentary tracing the history of beer making Paramount Home Entertainment (avail. from most in the New York borough from the early 1800s through the distributors). SDH captioned. ISBN: 1-4157-7575-3 present day. Vintage and contemporary footage accompanies (dvd), 1-4157-7574-5 (blu-ray). input from historians, brewers, and beer lovers, who talk about It is said that the celebrity factor for the the origins of the industry, including the German immigrant best-known comedians affords them perhaps family behind classic brands such as Rheingold (whose “Miss a 10-minute grace period with audiences Rheingold” pageants were a hugely successful promotional effort in the mid-20th before they have to legitimately bring the century). Viewers learn about the days when brewing only took place at certain funny. No elder is more beloved times of the year, and blocks of ice (cut from lakes during the winter) kept in ice- and esteemed than Bill Cosby, who appears houses were the only way to have cold beer available during the warmer months. here in his first standup special in 30 years, By the late 1880s, Brooklyn boasted 35 breweries, which generated $8 million in confirming his status as the dean—although sales annually, but things really took off in the 1900s thanks to pasteurization “standup” is a bit of a misnomer, as Cosby sits and canning, which allowed for longer shelf life and regional distribution. Of throughout. But even sitting, Cosby’s body course, then came Prohibition, which hit “like a sucker punch in a Bensonhurst language and facial expressions effectively ballroom.” In response, the industry limped along, making lemonade, soft drinks, help sell his observations and stories, which and “near beer” until Prohibition was repealed in 1933. But other challenges beset mostly revolve around marriage and the the producers—labor difficulties and outside competition among them—leading to Mars/Venus divide. While Cosby’s delivery a collapse by the 1970s. However, in 1988, the startup Brooklyn Brewery launched hasn’t dated, some may feels his views have a that now also includes a multitude of enthusiastic home brewers. (mainly, variations on how men are power- An entertaining and informative documentary sure to appeal to brew fans, this is less against their controlling girlfriends or highly recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block) wives). Cosby compares marriage to chess, in which the queen moves wherever she wants. Cosby doesn’t tell jokes per se, but stories in which he is at odds with, or in the doghouse SPORTS, GAMES & RECREATION recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) of, “Mrs. Cosby.” Among the better ones here is a bit about when he forgot his secu- Rising From Ashes HHH1/2 rity alarm code. Director Robert Townsend (2013) 80 min. DVD: $27.95. First Run Features here wisely keeps the camera trained on the (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. Age of Champions HHH performer, with no gratuitous or pandering (2013) 72 min. DVD: $59.99 ($149 w/PPR): public Shot over a period of six years by film- audience reaction shots. Extras include a libraries; $245 w/PPR: colleges & universities. maker T.C. Johnstone, Rising From Ashes— conversation between Townsend and Cosby Collective Eye. narrated by —follows the (who talks about his start in comedy), and be- Age is just a number—like point scores— fortunes of several young Rwandan men hind-the-scenes featurettes. Recommended. in filmmaker Christopher Rufo’s easygoing who are gradually transformed into a team Aud: P. (D. Liebenson) profile of competitors at the 2009 trials of competitive cyclists vying for a spot at for America’s National Senior Olympics. the 2012 Olympics. Reaching out for that improbable goal entails a long and arduous Bone Wind Fire (Désert Vent Feu) Notable among these jock great-grand- HHH1/2 parents are 100-year-old tennis star Roger process that demands not only discipline and determination, but also coming to (2011) 30 min. DVD: $150. National Film Board Gentilhomme and 86-year-old pole-vault terms with a haunting, bloody past, since of Canada. PPR. prodigy Adolph Hoffman. Two elderly these racers are survivors of the 1994 geno- Inspired by Sharyn Rohlfsen Udall’s book African-Americans in Washington, D.C. cide in Rwanda that resulted in a million Carr, O’Keeffe, Kahlo: Places of Their Own, film- (one undergoing chemotherapy for cancer gruesome deaths in a matter of weeks. maker Jill Sharpe’s documentary illustrates concurrent with the games) specialize in The group is composed of individuals who how the visual aesthetics of 20th-century swimming and the high dive; both are old once would have been enemies, making artists Emily Carr, Georgia O’Keeffe, and enough to remember Jim Crow segregation, reconciliation an important theme here. Frida Kahlo were inspired by their surround- when the only public pool they could visit Equally stirring is the theme of redemption, ings. The cinematography here is gorgeous, was the reflecting pool on the National particularly as it relates to cycling legend displaying O’Keeffe’s stark New Mexico des- Mall. One grace note that may strike many Jock Boyer, the first American to compete erts, Carr’s lush British Columbia rainforests, viewers is the mellow good sportsmanship in the Tour de France. Derailed by a crime and Kahlo’s colorful Mexico City home and shown by many of these athletes, who—un- (lewd behavior with a minor) that sent him neighborhood. What the artists saw in these like so many young superstars in the pros to prison in the mid-2000s, Boyer was of- environments is reflected in the bold, richly —are gracious in defeat and compliment fered the opportunity to reinvent himself envisioned images they created: O’Keeffe’s their opponents. One major exception in Rwanda, where he coaches the cyclists to oversized flowers and sun-bleached skulls, seems to be women’s basketball, in which push past pain in order to become world- Carr’s native totem poles, and Kahlo’s hal- the Tigerettes of Louisiana—a sassy, fiercely class competitors. The healing implications lucinatory scenes of illness and isolation. competitive bunch of gals—get particularly of Boyer’s strategy are not lost on the Bone Wind Fire imagines the artists’ daily physical against arch-rivals from Pennsyl- athletes, one of whom says that suffering lives in brief dramatic re-enactments ac- vania and Tennessee (their matches could for a good cause is a new and liberating companied by narration drawn from their form the basis for a whole separate movie). experience. Highly recommended. Aud: letters and journal entries—musings about An uplifting sports documentary, this is C, P. (T. Keogh) the creative process and their approach to

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 66 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 painting—punctuated with occasional low- key visual effects. Sadly, the women’s works initially suffered from a scathing critical reception that was based as much on their personal lives as on artistic merit. Serving up compelling visuals and evocative fi rst-person narrative, this well-crafted, informative documentary is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)

Cartoon College ★★★1/2 (2012) 76 min. DVD: individuals: $19.95, institutions: $199 w/PPR. L.B. Thunderpony Productions. ISBN: 978-0-9728678-4-8. White River Junction, VT, has the honor of hosting the recently instituted Center for Cartoon Studies, a two-year MFA college for aspiring cartoonists and “comix” creators. CCS nurtures its visionaries less along the Marvel/DC superhero line and more in the edgy, fi ne-art tradition of Maus creator Art Spiegelman (interviewed here). Although watching a person sweat over panel pencil- ing and inkings at a sketching table is not terribly cinematic, fi lmmakers Josh Melrod and Tara Wray succeed in drawing (sorry) the viewer’s interest with a narrative that follows the travails of various aspiring artists under- going the rigors of cartoon-theory class and SIIA C O D iE Award FINALIST, “Best E duca t io n Refe re n c e So lu t io n” the dreaded thesis presentation. Students LIBRARY JOURNAL Be s t Databas e RUNNER-UP, “B est in Media” range from Al Wesolowski, an elderly, half- deaf, semi-retired Boston archaeologist, who hopes to turn his whimsical stick-fi gures into a new career, to young and brash Jen Vaughn, whose comics tend to center on mermaids EXCITING FEATURES: and menstruation. Aside from the fact that NEW young comics-creators tend to be thoughtful peer-group outcasts, the chances of making  Custom Segment Tool a living out of being a cartoonist are slim, so a DIY industry of self-published and very  Continuous Play and Loop Playlist Options personal graphics has arisen. Big-name cartoonists making guest appearances here include Scott McCloud, Francoise Mouly,  EasyBib Citation Integration Lynda Barry, Jules Feiffer, and Gabby Schulz. Extras include updates on the students and  Transcript Cross-Search Feature the school. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)  Top Ten Video Widget Eric Fischl: The Process of Painting  Enhanced Support Center ★★1/2 (2012) 38 min. DVD: $45 ($150 w/PPR). Checkerboard Film Foundation.  And More! Contemporary American artist Eric Fis- chl is perhaps best known for depictions of suburban life that are often charged with erotic undertones. But as Edgar B. Howard’s documentary—made in con- www.InfobaseLearning.com/TrialAD2014 junction with the 2012 exhibition Dive Deep: Eric Fischl and the Process of Painting at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts—makes abundantly clear, Fischl’s work has embraced a variety of media (including ® sculpture and photography) and subjects, Facts On File / Chelsea House / Bloom’s / Ferguson’s / The World Almanac / Films Media Group although the human body has remained 1-800-322-8755 • [email protected] his primary focus. In what is basically an www.InfobaseLearning.com autobiographical self-portrait created from a series of interviews conducted at Fischl’s

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 201VL_0114_FOD_pp_1213.indd4 1 67 VIDEO LIBRA12/5/13RIA N 10:29 AM centuries, with particular attention paid to Edward Elgar and William Walton. Although The Best of (The Original) An Evening at the Improv Starkey devotes some time to various rulers’ HHH1/2 domestic musical activities—his portrait of (2012) 4 discs. 720 min. DVD: $29.98. Somerville House (avail. from Queen Victoria and her beloved Prince Albert most distributors). performing duets together and hosting a Even with the occasional lame skit and gratuitous musical visit by Felix Mendelssohn is rather touch- number, comedy gold can be found in this compilation from ing—the emphasis here is on the importance the cable-TV series An Evening at the Improv, which began in of compositions written for public occasions, 1982. The comics on parade here at the Los Angeles branch of especially coronation ceremonies. Starkey’s Bud Friedman’s Improv range from the great ones early in their comments are bolstered by musical excerpts, career (Phil Foster introduces young Jerry as having artwork, and ornate on-location filming. been in standup for only about the last half-hour) to others DVD extras include longer performances of who never became household names, but perhaps should have (Marc Weiner, Mau- nine pieces, and a booklet. Sure to appeal to rice LaMarche). Viewers will see Michael Keaton before his acting career and Robert Anglophiles and music buffs, this is highly Townsend prior to his becoming a film director. Other stars here include guest hosts recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) Leslie Nielsen, , James Coco, Ed McMahon, Don “Father Guido Sarducci” Novello, and—reminiscing about working with/covering for Lenny Bruce—Mort Sahl. Muybridge’s Strings HHH1/2 Rising comics include Arsenio Hall, Steven Wright, Howie Mandel, , Richard (2011) 13 min. DVD: $99. National Film Board of Lewis, and Elayne Boosler (“Pac-Man is the history of the Jewish people—being chased Canada. PPR. while eating.”). And look for celebs in the audience, including Johnny Carson and Pia The title of this short by Koji Yama- Zadora. Serving up 12 hours of comedy from over 100 comedians, this set admittedly mura—one of the masters among Japanese features some dated material, but also some gem routines, and the price is right. Highly animators—refers to photographer Eadweard recommended. Aud: P. (C. Cassady) Muybridge (1830–1904), whose experiments with successive stop-motion stills of running animals and sprinting humans (projected New York studios, Fischl talks about his distinctive challenges of building a national through a device called the zoopraxiscope) early education—during which he rejected motion picture industry. Despite its consider- represented a pioneering stage in the de- abstraction in favor of figurative painting at able output, the Cambodian film world was velopment of motion pictures. Yamamura the California Institute of the Arts—and his relatively small, with numerous actors work- incorporates some of those strips into his struggle to find his own creative voice, which ing together in multiple productions, many of film, while adding impressionistic sequences he claims is the essential process every artist which focused on either mild melodrama or drawn from Muybridge’s life, including an must go through, although he also readily horror/sci-fi inspired by Cambodian folklore, episode in which he suffered an injury in admits the importance of those who have with musical interludes permeating nearly a stagecoach accident, and an incident in influenced his style. Fischl also discusses the every work. Today, young Cambodians ap- which he shot his young wife’s lover, an act practical aspects of his work, commenting on pear to be indifferent to this lost heritage, and for which he was tried but acquitted. Yama- the different ways in which he approaches the once-grand movie palaces of capital city mura juxtaposes this material with images painting (with either oils or watercolors), Phnom Penh are either dilapidated or have depicting a Japanese mother as she watches photography, and sculpture, as well as the been transformed to serve other purposes. her daughter grow up, offering a meditation technological aids he has adopted—some- Poster art, publicity stills, and snippets of on the irresistible nature of time and change. times reluctantly—in recent years. From soundtrack music offer clues to the quality Muybridge’s Strings is obviously a far cry from a technical perspective, the production is of the original material, while several elderly mainstream , which has come to increasingly depend on impersonal hardly slick—with spartan cinematography movie buffs cite factoids about their favorites. CGI technology and cookie-cutter stories. and sometimes rough editing—but it will Offering a tragic reminder of the ephemeral But this will certainly appeal to those who certainly appeal to fans of Fischl’s work, as nature of popular culture, this is highly rec- appreciate a more traditional if idiosyncratic well as aspiring young painters who may ap- ommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) short that also features thematically thought- preciate his musings about his training and provoking material. Highly recommended. career. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, Music & Monarchy HHH1/2 Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) P. (F. Swietek) (2013) 2 discs. 234 min. DVD: $49.99. Athena (avail. from most distributors). SDH captioned. HHH ISBN: 978-1-59828-995-4. The Noise of Cairo: Arts After the Arab Golden Slumbers 1/2 In this four-part series, historian David (2011) 96 min. DVD: $398. Icarus Films. PPR. Spring HHH1/2 Starkey—who has built a 35-year career as a (2012) 52 min. DVD: $295. Filmakers Library From 1960 through 1975, Cambodian TV host—discusses how monarchs have used (dist. by Alexander Street Press). PPR. ISBN: 978-1- filmmakers made more than 400 feature music to express authority since the 15th 4631-1726-9. films, but the ascension of the Khmer Rouge century, and how composers have served Although the outcome in Egypt of the 2010 brought things to an abrupt halt: the creative rulers’ needs. The first episode concentrates Arab Spring (and its continuing reverbera- talents involved either fled into exile or were on Henry V, Henry VIII, and Elizabeth I, em- tions) was not quite what optimistic revolu- arrested and killed by the Khmer Rouge (and phasizing not only their particular tastes but tionaries had in mind, the uprising in Cairo many of the movies were destroyed or lost). also their patronage of the Chapel Royal as a had an enormous effect on a cultural level. Davy Chou’s poignant documentary offers a training ground for composers and perform- Filmmaker Heiko Lange presents a broad glimpse into the halcyon days of Cambodian ers. The second focuses on Henry Purcell, rec- overview of freedom’s impact on everything cinema—no mean feat, considering that so ognized as the greatest of native-born English from street-level artistic expressions (murals, little footage is available to recall the tri- composers, while the third looks at George paintings on roads, graffiti) to galleries, to umphs of this period. Directors Ly Bun Yim, Frideric Handel, who although German came dance companies, and music. Told primarily Ly You Sreang, and Yvon Hem join onetime to epitomize 18th-century English music. through the perspectives of 12 artists repre- leading lady Dy Saveth in discussing the The final segment covers the 19th and 20th senting various —whose comments

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 68 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 are interspersed with footage of the protests and Bondi’s heirs sued to regain possession. from his career (including reflections on and everyday life in the city—the essential Museum officials worldwide argued that the joys and difficulties of compromis- message here is that Egyptians feel a greater interfering with the painting’s return to ing with his fellow players), coupled with connection to the arts since the Arab Spring, Austria could poison the common practice archival footage of Juilliard rehearsals and and those who create art have wider latitude of loaning artworks across national lines, performances at various venues—including to make works about liberty or anything else and the case resulted in a long period of the White House. Colleagues such as Itzhak on their minds. In fact, one artist says, some litigation and a negotiated settlement. Us- Perlman and Seiji Ozawa testify to Mann’s people are looking to the art world in Egypt to ing file footage, other archival material, and musicianship and his camaraderie, while instruct them on what to think about current extensive interviews with many of the major members of his own family—including events. Not everything is wonderful: with players, Shea expertly covers each phase of son Nicholas, a longtime violinist with the the Egyptian army assuming control of the the story, showing how the legal jockeying Mendelssohn String Quartet—salute him as government and an unexpected crackdown revealed the extent of Nazi plundering of a husband and father. Special attention is on the civilian population, the situation was European artworks—as well as the ways in given to Mann’s devotion to contemporary certainly unstable at the time of filming (and which museums, while publicly mouthing music—notably, the quartets of Béla Bartók, continues to be so). But as a vibrant snapshot high principles, have used dubious means which Juilliard helped popularize with of blossoming creativity in a society under- to hold onto pieces that were stolen from audiences, and pieces by composer Elliot going tumultuous upheaval, this is highly Jewish owners. DVD extras include footage Carter, who here offers thanks for Julliard’s recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) from a 2010 ceremony at the Museum of premieres of his works. Mann’s tireless ef- Jewish Heritage, and excerpts from Leopold’s forts as a teacher—nurturing many of the 2006 deposition about his acquisition of the Portrait of Wally HHH1/2 finest contemporary string quartets—are (2012) 90 min. In English & German w/English painting. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. also covered in insightful clips from master subtitles. DVD: $99: public libraries; $350 w/PPR: (F. Swietek) classes. A revealing, affectionate portrait of colleges & universities. Seventh Art Releasing. a man who continues to be an inspiration An investigation into the fate of a single Speak the Music: Robert Mann and the to others well into his 90s, this is recom- painting serves as an entrée into a dark Mysteries of Chamber Music HHH mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) cultural world in Andrew Shea’s exceptional (2013) 58 min. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features documentary. The work in question is the (avail. from most distributors). Superheroes: A Never-Ending Battle titular portrait that Austrian expressionist When the Juilliard String Quartet began HHH1/2 Egon Schiele painted of his mistress in 1912. performing—in the late 1940s—it brought (2013) 180 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR), In 1939, the painting was confiscated by a to the repertoire a mixture of transpar- Blu-ray: $29.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH Nazi-affiliated dealer from its owner, Lea ency, energy, passion, and refinement that captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-974-2 (dvd), 978-1- Bondi, and it wound up in the Austrian quickly earned the group a reputation as 60883-975-9 (blu-ray). National Gallery after the war, but was soon one of the finest of all chamber ensembles. Hosted and narrated by Liev Schreiber, purchased by Rudolf Leopold, becoming part Founding member Robert Mann was this three-part PBS-aired documentary de- of the private collection that formed the basis Julliard’s first violinist for an astonish- voted to American comic-book superheroes for the state-sponsored Leopold Collection, ing 52 years. Allan Miller’s celebratory (sorry, Astro Boy) serves up an entertaining which opened in 2001. A celebrated legal case documentary includes generous excerpts history while also updating aging collec- over its ownership arose in 1997, when it was from interviews with Mann as he recalls tion mainstays such as Comic Book Confi- loaned to New York’s Museum of Modern Art his boyhood in Oregon and key moments dential and ’s Mutants, Monsters & Marvels. The late- intros of and Batman (the latter was actually Bob Kane’s inspired rip-off of the pulp’s leading Last Will. & Testament HHH dark-knight crimefighter, the Shadow) led (2012) 85 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH captioned. to a comics explosion up through World ISBN: 978-1-60883-984-1. War II. During the ensuing peacetime, Debate about the true authorship of the plays and poems as- however, comics were blamed for juvenile cribed to has been going on since at least the delinquency and sexual deviance, so the 19th century (if not earlier). Over the last hundred years, the focus superhero market slumped. Stan Lee’s has increasingly centered on one alternative candidate—Edward 1960s-era Marvel Comics, beginning with de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, a well-educated man who was the Fantastic Four, introduced (relative) deeply involved in Elizabethan court intrigue. This so-called emotional nuance and real-world issues to Oxford theory has been dramatized—not very successfully—in the genre, attracting more mature readers. the movie Anonymous (VL-3/12), featuring Sir Derek Jacobi (one Eventually censorship was banished, and of de Vere’s strongest adherents), who also appears in this PBS-aired documentary by mainstream acceptance was achieved for Lisa and Laura Wilson. Comprised largely of excerpts from interviews with theatrical costumed heroes and heroines (thanks professionals (such as Jacobi and Vanessa Redgrave), as well as scholars, Last Will. & in part to blockbuster Hollywood adapta- Testament is supplemented by illustrative artwork and archival material, play excerpts, tions). Comics geeks might complain that and period re-creations that provide historical context—as well as an amusing clip from the saga is too tightly focused on Marvel a mock trial on the controversy argued before several U.S. Supreme Court justices. and DC Comics, but most viewers will en- Roughly the first half of the documentary is devoted to observations casting doubt on joy this fine survey that features interviews Shakespeare’s authorship, with the remainder given over to arguments in favor of de with genre greats and affiliated authors, Vere, and while the coverage is not exactly balanced, critics of the Oxford hypothesis actors, and artists—including Stan Lee, are included. All told, the film makes a sober, visually elegant case for the contrarian Carmine Infantino, Jerry Robinson, Adam view of who wrote the Shakespearean corpus, while also noting that admiration for West, Lynda Carter, Michael Chabon, and the works themselves will always transcend the question of their authorship. Recom- Frank Miller. Extras include bonus inter- mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) views. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 69 VIDEO LIBRARIAN talent and their dedication to dance. An in- spiring documentary, this is recommended. Photo HHH Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) (2013) 2 discs. 312 min. DVD: $49.99. Athena (avail. from most distributors). SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62172-065-2. HHH The subtitle—”A History from Behind the Lens”—of this Welcome to the Machine 1/2 (2013) 90 min. In English & German w/English ARTE-France TV series is a bit misleading, since Photo offers no subtitles. DVD: $16.95. Music Video Distributors A-B chronology of photography’s evolution and milestones, but (avail. from most distributors). rather presents a non-linear set of English-narrated segments German director Andreas Steinkogler’s that make creative use of CGI while addressing different aspects Welcome to the Machine opens with a wonder- of photography considered as art. Various movements (chiefly ful (and likely apocryphal) Hunter Thompson Pictorialism) sought to make photography as distinct, symbol- quote: “The music business is a cruel and laden, and expressive as painting, ultimately leading up to the shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway influential Düsseldorf School, which stressed hyper-realism and an illusion of objectivity where thieves and pimps run free and good (producing in 2007 the world’s most expensive art-photo print: Andreas Gursky’s “99 men die like dogs. But there’s also a negative Cents”). Individual chapters include “Staged Photography,” “Press Usage,” “Conceptual side.” Presenting the “12 Commandments” of Photography” and “Surrealism Photography,” but it’s not until the ninth out of the the music business, this how-to/documentary dozen episodes here that viewers will hear a discussion of the birth of photography offers gut-level advice that is more timeless (with a proud Gallic boast that once Louis Daguerre made photo-imaging practical, than trendy. Viewers follow the tribulations the French government gave him a stipend to free up the process for all mankind), of a wannabe group, “The New Vitamin,” although the conclusion is up-to-date, plunging into a post-celluloid world of digital as it tries to make it to the big time, a quest cameras and artifice. No portfolios by the scandalous Robert Mapplethorpe are presented complete with squalid practice halls, inflated here, but the work of other edgy shutterbugs (such as Japan’s Nobuyoshi Araki) feature egos, and infighting—interrupted by the oc- nudity and sensuality. DVD extras include a booklet with a timeline on the history of casional gig. Steinkogler draws on interviews photography. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) from pros who offer firsthand guidance, including Kim Wilde, Fatboy Slim, members of Buckcherry, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Cypress Hill, and Kool and the Gang, as Trash Dance HHH1/2 movements. Highly recommended. Aud: C, (2012) 68 min. DVD: $21.95: individuals; $59: P. (K. Fennessy) well as industry press, promoters, managers, high schools & public libraries; $299: colleges & hangers-on, and many others. Covered topics universities. Panther Creek Pictures (avail. from TuTuMuch HHH include the purpose of awards shows (not a www.trashdancemovie.com). PPR. ISBN: 978-0- (2010) 83 min. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features flattering portrait), the mechanics of mak- 9893430-0-8. (avail. from most distributors). ing music (including writing, performing, Garbage collection literally becomes art in No mean girls appear in Elise Swerhone’s and recording audio and video), the horrors Andrew Garrison’s Trash Dance, which docu- pleasant documentary about the summer and triumphs of first live concerts, dodgy ments the creation of a performance piece audition program of the Royal Winnipeg lodging on the road, a hilarious segment on built around sanitation workers. Garrison Ballet, a month-long intensive course in good and bad band names, trying to make a follows Austin choreographer Allison Orr which some 70 young dance students, cho- “hit,” shady money deals, relationships with for a year as she brings the project to life by sen from 1,000 or so applicants worldwide, critics and music journalists, and more. Well embedding herself with the city’s Solid Waste live in dormitory-style housing and vie for worth the watch for aspiring musicians, this is Services Department in order to get a feel for invitations to join the company’s profes- highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Block) their work and to recruit participants. As in sional school the following year. TuTuMuch, her previous productions, Orr aims to make filmed at the 2005 camp, focuses on nine invisible people visible. Although their jobs participants, some of whom—such as petite, HISTORY & CURRENT EVENTS are undeniably necessary, citizens still tend bespectacled Canadian Alicja—are brash to take these workers for granted—if they and outspoken—while others are quiet and notice them at all. Orr, who is white, ends up reserved. Swerhone interweaves footage from The Contradictions of Fair Hope with 24 performers, mostly black, who work class sessions together with observations HHH1/2 in recycling, litter abatement, street clean- from both the girls and their instructors. (2013) 67 min. DVD: $24.98. Shelter Island/TDC ing, and dead animal collection. Spending Viewers will also see the girls away from the (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-1- time with her troupe, she finds that some barres, having fun on outings and comfort- 939517-12-8. are single parents, while a few have second ing one another over bouts of homesickness. Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, this docu- jobs to make ends meet. She also discovers (A few boys are glimpsed during the audition mentary tells the story of the Fair Hope a world of talent that becomes integrated process, but there’s no hint of gender inter- Benevolent Society, one of many such orga- into the finished piece: Ivory Jackson Jr., for action off the floor.) The students’ relatives, nizations that were founded by freed slaves instance, contributes a rap, while Orange particularly parents, are also interviewed, following the Civil War. Fair Hope was estab- Jefferson plays harmonica on composer offering perspectives on the girls’ home lives lished in Alabama in 1888 to help formerly Graham Reynolds’ stirring score. At the end and other interests, as well as the sacrifices enslaved blacks live productively by pooling of the film, Garrison presents a deftly edited that the families have made in order to pro- resources and labor. Inhabiting adjoining overview of the performance which played vide opportunities for their children. The properties, its members crafted a constitu- out on an abandoned airport runway and film ends with the company’s final decisions tion, a dues-paying structure, a somewhat attracted more audience members than the about who will be invited to the professional arcane leadership format (including selection stands could hold. By shining a light on school, leading to scenes of jubilation, disap- of a queen), and protocols for dealing with these unrecognized citizens, Garrison and pointment, and—in one case—ambivalence illness and death. Their sense of ritual and Orr don’t just put names and faces to these about accepting the offer. While all nine identity was so powerful that they held an blue-collar positions, but also reveal the aren’t able to immediately fulfill their dream, annual event with formal trappings and an grace and artistry inherent in their everyday TuTu Much impresses on viewers both their air of worship. These traditions carried from

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 70 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 one generation to the next, and many Fair here with a couple of eyewitnesses (including HBO-aired documentary explores how the Hope participants born in the 1920s and ’30s one woman who took a famous photograph ultimately successful operation was built speak here with a deep sense of history. About just before JFK was shot). The long trail of on decades of painstaking investigation, midway through, directors S. Epatha Merker- subsequent presidents embracing or capital- analysis, and fieldwork—especially within son and Rockell Metcalf switch their focus to izing on Kennedy’s legacy and unfinished and by the CIA. Following the Soviet Union’s the state of Fair Hope today, specifically their agenda began with Lyndon Johnson, who withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989, bin yearly celebration. Now called Foot Wash, the strategically employed the beloved memory Laden emerged as a victor, and—while once worshipful occasion has become a lewd of his predecessor to further civil rights and denying ties to terrorism—began secretly festival, rife with prostitution, gambling, au- social reform. labored under financing the beginnings of a global jihad tomatic weapons, and an aura of lawlessness. the shadow of his late rival; Gerald Ford against perceived enemies. CIA analysts, But the bawdiness here (including nudity) incurred the wrath of Ted Kennedy by par- seeing similarities in terrorist strikes in dif- makes a statement: something happened to doning Nixon for alleged Watergate-related ferent places, became aware of al-Qaeda (an Fair Hope over time, and why that occurred crimes; Jimmy Carter made the mistake of al-Qaeda “unit” existed at the CIA by 1995). is a major point of the film. Highly recom- alienating the Kennedy clan and paid for it; Years of further intelligence gathering led to mended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) and Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill the first memo written for the White House Clinton, George W. Bush, and about al-Qaeda in 1998, but it would be the JFK: 50 Years, A Commemorative all have been—in one way or another—favor- tragic events of September 11, 2001 that Collection HHH ably or unfavorably compared to JFK and his would lead to a global war strategy aimed (2013) 6 discs. 480 min. DVD: $34.99. TOPICS dreams for America. JFK’s trip to Dallas on against the organization. Manhunt covers Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). that fateful day was supposed to help set the the long search that eventually resulted in ISBN: 978-1-61894-360-6. stage for his reelection a year later; instead, the raid on bin Laden, but what is most The 50th anniversary of the assassination his ghost has hovered over the White House fascinating here is the network of analysts of John F. Kennedy in 1963 has inspired a ever since. Highly recommended. Aud: C, and operatives who together doggedly made cascade of books and TV documentaries P. (T. Keogh) incremental progress in locating him. These about his presidency and the circumstances individuals come across as regular people of his death. While this five-disc set (with a Manhunt: The Inside Story of the Hunt in extraordinary jobs, which can almost bonus audio CD) offers nothing new, it does for Bin Laden HHH make one forget (until a CIA administrator provide a useful selection of archival footage, (2013) 103 min. DVD: $19.98. HBO Home reminds us) how much of their success was culled mostly from contemporary theatrical Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). the direct result of coercive interrogations, newsreels, TV broadcasts, and films produced Closed captioned. so-called “black sites,” and outsourced tor- by the United States Information Agency, The killing of Osama bin Laden in his ture sessions rendered by U.S. allies. Still, with some home movies added to the mix. compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, on this is a solid documentary chronicle of the Many of Kennedy’s most famous speeches May 2, 2011 marked a hard-won if also events covered in the Hollywood blockbuster are included here (at least in truncated form), long delayed triumph for the American . Recommended. Aud: C, P. including the campaign event to assuage intelligence community. Greg Barker’s (T. Keogh) Protestant concerns about his Catholicism, the Inaugural Address, the Berlin Wall speech, and others on civil rights, the space program, The March HHH1/2 and the Cuban missile crisis. Although the or- (2013) 60 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH der isn’t chronological, the coverage is broad, captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-958-2. starting with Kennedy’s days in the House For the civil rights struggle in America during the last century, of Representatives and proceeding through 1963 was a turning point: NAACP executive Medgar Evers was the senatorial years, the 1960 presidential gunned down in Mississippi by a white supremacist, and Bir- run, and the major events of his presidency, mingham, AL, police commissioner “Bull” Connor loosed dogs concluding with the assassination itself. and high power fire hoses on peaceful demonstrators, including The technical quality is, of course, variable many women and children. With sit-ins and local marches not (a 1952 Longines Chronoscope with then having wider impact, civil rights activist and labor leader A. Philip Representative Kennedy is afflicted by a wavy Randolph urged a massive march on Washington D.C. Narrated image and poorly synchronized sound, and by , filmmaker John Akomfrah’s PBS-aired documentary describes the silent home movies are predictably primi- the build-up to August 28, 1963’s “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom,” which tive). But overall the footage, drawn largely backers hoped would arouse the nation’s conscience and lead to a Civil Rights bill in from the holdings of the National Archives, Congress. At best, John F. Kennedy was a “reluctant partner,” fearing that the march is in reasonably good shape considering its would spark violence, while FBI director J. Edgar Hoover was openly hostile, claiming age. Both a solid collection of source materi- that the movement was nurtured and inspired by Communists. Surviving activists als from the so-called Camelot years and a here recall the feelings of misgiving, hope, and excitement, while also noting the commemoration of a national tragedy, this is challenges and divisions that plagued the planned march. Civil rights leader Bayard recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek) Rustin was vulnerable both because of his leftist background and the fact that he was openly gay, and young firebrand John Lewis (now a senior congressman) rattled nerves The Kennedy Half-Century HHH1/2 with his planned speech promising a Sherman-like march on the south, if progress (2013) 58 min. DVD: $19.99. Kultur International wasn’t made. To help reassure the establishment, singer Harry Belafonte recruited a Films (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-0- broad spectrum of entertainers, including , , and Joan Baez. 7697-5077-4. But, of course, the centerpiece of the event was Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” Paul T. Roberts’ documentary looks at the speech—improvised at the last moment—which electrified the crowd of hundreds of long-running impact of Kennedy’s death on thousands. Comments from historian Taylor Branch, Oprah Winfrey, and Congressman the American presidency. But first,The Ken- Lewis are interwoven with vintage footage of this unforgettable moment in American nedy Half-Century covers the 1963 assassina- history. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees) tion itself and immediate aftermath, talking

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 71 VIDEO LIBRARIAN revolutionaries—assuming that a hundred or so embarrassing troublemakers would leave. Untold History of the United States HHH1/2 When tenfold more appeared overnight—all (2013) 4 discs. 796 min. DVD: $23.98, Blu-ray: $49.99. Warner Home Video (avail. from most distributors). disillusioned with the regime—Castro added prostitutes, convicts, and homosexuals to the Oliver Stone’s 10-hour Untold History of the United States bows mix, denouncing all wholesale as “filth.” The on Blu-ray with a DVD release slated later for March 4. Let’s get Cuban-Americans interviewed here (many the big caveats out of the way first: 1) most of this history has of whom were children at the time of the been told, 2) it is limited to roughly the last 75 years, and 3) boatlift) have made successful lives, but in it’s less about the United States, per se, than about U.S. foreign Cuba, Dr. Garcia—unsurprisingly—finds policy (very little attention is paid to domestic matters). That poverty and no on-camera admiration for said, this is not the 20th-century American history you learned Fidel. Also featuring an introduction by Cu- in school. Based on the titular book by Stone and historian ban-descended actor Steven Bauer (Scarface), Peter Kuznick, the series takes viewers on an often fascinating waltz down memory and comments from author Brian Latell (After lane that is surprisingly less revisionist than one might expect from Stone (who has Fidel), this solid update on a major contempo- been labeled a conspiracy theorist in the past). Stone himself narrates—in a sincere rary historical event is recommended. Aud: but somewhat monotone voice that occasionally fights the often bombastic classical C, P. (C. Cassady) music on the soundtrack—against a backdrop of extensive archival material. Although the wealth of details (which are not always well-tied to the central arguments) can be overwhelming, the overall narrative here is compelling. In chronicling American TRAVEL & GEOGRAPHY missteps and misadventures during WWII and the Cold War, as well as in Vietnam, Latin America, Iraq, and Afghanistan—among other locales—the series elevates some semi-forgotten Americans, such as FDR’s progressive vice-president Henry Wallace (who was bumped off the final FDR ticket in favor of Harry S. Truman—the man who Aerial America: New England Collection would authorize dropping the atomic bombs on Japan), while questioning the saintly HHH1/2 aura surrounding others, such as Ronald Reagan, who squandered a chance for nuclear (2013) 276 min. Blu-ray: $19.98. Media disarmament because of his Star Wars space defense initiative pipe dream during the Group (avail. from most distributors). Closed ‘80s. Does the series lean a bit to the left? Of course it does, but viewers will gain a captioned. much better understanding of two key points. First, like the British, French, and Dutch The Smithsonian Channel’s Aerial America before us, America has been engaged in empire building over the last three-quarters series stages flyovers featuring important of a century; unlike those other nations, America has preferred indirect involvement, historical sites, here in the New England supporting puppet political figures who back American interests. Second, the cost of states of Maine, , New Hamp- our apparently unwavering belief in American exceptionalism has been very high. shire, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Rhode Blu-ray extras include two bonus prequel episodes (with some overlapping material), Island. The latter, being the smallest state in a stimulating conversation between Stone and author/pundit Tariq Ali, and a booklet. the union, practically receives a house-by- Sure to spark heated debate (Stone/Kuznick and historian Sean Wilentz have already house (or rooftop-by-rooftop) treatment, but sparred off in a public exchange in the New York Times), this is highly recommended. fortunately they are some very interesting Aud: C, P. (R. Pitman) houses. Viewers will behold such spectacles as the mansions belonging to , Robert Frost, and Stephen King; a haunted Unsung Hero: The Story of the Horse in were essentially tethered victims once the lighthouse; an environmental anomaly that the Civil War HHH barrages began. Offering a decent tribute to has produced “deserts” in Maine; the Atlantic (2013) 56 min. DVD: $69.95. TMW Media Group. its titular subjects, this is recommended. Aud: arsenal of nuclear submarines at Groton; and PPR. H, C, P. (F. Gardner) the pleasure homes of Kent Masterson Brown’s documentary and the Kennedys. This leg of the series was focuses on the millions of horses that partici- Voices from Mariel: Los Marielitos, Then shot during bright autumn days, so the fall fo- pated in the War Between the States, during and Now HHH liage of New England appears in all its storied which as many as 1.5 million possibly died. (2011) 80 min. DVD: $179.95. Films Media pictorial splendor. Sure to appeal to armchair Written and narrated by Brown, Unsung Hero Group. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-62102- travelers, this is highly recommended. Aud: relies largely on shots of battlefields and loads 978-6. P. (C. Cassady) of vintage photographs (with the pans and Voices from Mariel revisits the epic 1980 zooms so common to the historical genre), “Mariel boatlift” mass exodus of 125,000 Discoveries…America National Parks: coupled with stories of famous steeds such as refugees—packed in 1,700 boats—from Fidel Arches, Canyonlands & Natural Bridges Old Baldy, Cincinnati, Winchester, and Trav- Castro’s Cuba to Florida. Then and now, HHH1/2 eller, which are sometimes told via excerpts the Marielitos were regarded as criminals, (2012) 50 min. DVD or Blu-ray: $24.95. Bennett- from soldiers’ memoirs. Interviews with a according to filmmaker James Carleton. Watt HD Productions. PPR. ISBN: 978-1-60490- farrier (whose company is one of the film’s This argument is mainly made through 161-0 (dvd), 978-1-60490-184-9 (blu-ray). sponsors) and some Civil War re-enactors are the voice of one of his subjects, Dr. Jose This entry from Jim and Kelly Watt’s interspersed throughout. It’s hard to imagine Garcia, a Marielito making a return visit to acclaimed high-definition-filmed Discover- the vast problem of feeding the animals once Cuba 30 years later. Interviewed vets of the ies…America National Parks series takes view- they were separated from the supply wagons, boatlift here describe positive upbringings in ers to the wild and rocky lands of southern some of which traveled in caravans 50 miles Castro’s Cuba with Marxist indoctrination, Utah. Beginning in Arches National Park, long. Starvation was unavoidable and wide- but noted that disenchantment set in after home of the iconic Delicate Arch, the trav- spread; after Gettysburg alone, Union Gen. hearing about better lives 90 miles away in elogue offers an introduction to the 76,000 George Meade’s army lost 15,000 horses due the USA. After handfuls of Cuban dissidents acres of sandstone arches, buttes, and other to a lack of fodder. The horses also perished sought refuge in the Peruvian embassy, Fidel geologic wonders, capturing 17th-century in battle: the dozens required to pull cannons granted blanket exit visas to all counter- Native American art painted on desert rocks,

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 72 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 “The recent reemergence of immigration as a pressing matter in U.S. politics… makes HARVEST OF EMPIRE a especially timely documentary. Getzels and López’s while a park ranger offers explanatory com- the band was rising, Forrest took a consider- intelligent fi lm should broaden the discussion… ments. In nearby Canyonlands, the wear and able advance from RCA to leave and made an Recommended.” --Video Librarian tear wrought by two rivers over millennia has ill-fated solo album. As Monster’s drummer left a magnificent canyon and a visual feast Pete Weiss puts it, “He was one of the largest of varied shapes. Here, trails lead intrepid assholes ever to walk the planet.” The band visitors deep into the back country, while would eventually reunite, but Forrest’s drug the raging Colorado River offers a perfect (if problems only worsened. Forrest believes also dangerous) venue for whitewater raft- that his downward spiral began when he ing. The filmmakers also stop at the Natural learned the truth about his origins (which Bridges National Monument (established by involved adoption) at the age of 13. After Theodore Roosevelt and boasting fantastic hitting bottom, he started to get his life back stone formations), as well as ancestral Pueblo together following a series of rehab stints. sites. Footage of recreational drivers steering From there, he went on to help fellow ad- souped-up jeeps through chasms and up dicts, including Courtney Love and Red Hot and down rock walls might sound environ- Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante, in mentally perilous, but it sure looks like fun. conjunction with the Musicians Assistance Highly recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) Program. Through celeb rehab expert Dr. Drew Pinsky, he studied the science of addic- tion and became a proponent of abstinence- BIOGRAPHY based treatment (although Baruth is a little vague about Forrest’s falling out with the Las Encinitas program, which utilizes prescrip- Bob and the Monster HHH tion drugs). Forrest ultimately formed his (2012) 85 min. DVD: $16.95, Blu-ray: $19.95. own recovery centers, where he promotes Music Video Distributors (avail. from most the same non-religious, prescription-free distributors). techniques that were effective for him. Of- Third World Newsreel Many documentaries revolve around mu- fering an interesting portrait of one man’s MORE THAN 45 YEARS OF sicians who have battled substance abuse, triumph over addiction and subsequent but director Keirda Baruth profiles an indie good work, this is recommended. [Note: this PROGRESSIVE MEDIA is also available on DVD for $99.95 w/PPR rocker who became a drug and alcohol coun- order online at www.twn.org selor. Bob Forrest admits that he wanted to for public libraries, and $350 w/PPR for try heroin ever since he discovered Lenny colleges and universities from The Cinema Bruce. In the 1980s, Forrest moved from Palm Guild at www.cinemaguild.com.] Aud: C, Springs to Hollywood, where he hobnobbed P. (K. Fennessy) with bands like Fishbone and Jane’s Addic- tion. His interest in poetry and literature led In Search of Blind Joe Death: The Saga him to front Thelonious Monster, whose of John Fahey HHH1/2 ascent coincided with his own descent into (2012) 57 min. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features coke, crystal meth, and heroin use (Baruth (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. New uses claymation sequences to depict Forrest’s John Fahey (1939-2001) was “a provoca- Release! chemically-enhanced experiences). Just as teur in the Romantic mode” says a friend of

Far Out Isn’t Far Enough: The Tomi Ungerer Story HHH1/2 (2012) 98 min. DVD: $27.95. First Run Features (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. Children’s book author-illustrator Tomi Ungerer shunned the limelight for years before recently reappearing. Brad Bernstein’s fascinating, beautifully-made documentary is essentially an Discoveries... America National Parks autobiographical piece, featuring extended excerpts from 40+ titles, $24.95 ea New releases monthly 50-90 minutes each interviews with Ungerer, who discusses his childhood in Nazi- occupied Alsace before proceeding to his move to the United States in 1956, where he found work as a magazine cartoonist. Ungerer also wrote popular (albeit idiosyncratic) children’s books, and produced a series of devastating anti-war posters during the Vietnam protest era. But his career was derailed when it was revealed that he was also creating works of , and he left New York, first for Nova Scotia, and then Europe, and is only now reemerging to widespread but belated acclaim. Ungerer’s recounting of his life is both deeply mov- ing and filled with wry observations, which Bernstein accompanies with plentiful examples of his illustrations—some transformed into animation—as well as stills, other archival material, and comments from relatives and friends such as Jules Feiffer and the late Maurice Sendak. DVD extras include audio commentary by Bernstein, 200+ DVD titles / Also available in Blu-ray deleted scenes, a conversation between Ungerer and Feiffer, and a tour with Ungerer of his home in Ireland. A powerful portrait of uncommon depth and perception, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 73 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Strongman HHHH Series Update (2009) 113 min. DVD: $24.95. Passion River (avail. from most distributors). The following titles are new additions Even big guys get the blues, as viewers will see in this powerful to series that were previously recom- (in more ways than one) and engaging cinematic character study. mended. Titles are available from most Zachary Levy’s debut film serves up a winning profile of Stanley distributors unless otherwise noted. “Stanless Steel” Pleskun, of South Brunswick, NJ. An old-school strongman who could have stepped out of Coney Island in the Recently released days of vaudeville, Stan lifts cars in parking lots, pounds nails by PBS Home Video with his hands at private-booking kiddie parties, hoists platforms is Craft in America: loaded with people using one finger, and (his personal specialty) Forge (60 min., DVD: folds coins in his big hands, turning a penny into a two-year anniversary present for $19.99), the latest epi- his chain-smoking love, Barbara. Stan shoulders domestic friction with Barbara and sode of the Peabody her disapproving sister, while also harboring professional envy for better-paid fake Award-winning series strongmen in Cirque du Soleil, all the while pining for something more meaningful exploring handmade in his “craft.” Stan also avidly watches The Honeymooners, and after a while he really and modern crafts, comes to resemble Ralph Kramden (albeit with the ability to bend horseshoes) in this here focusing on artists forging metal incredibly entertaining fly-on-the-wall portrait of a fascinating character. Highly transformed by fire. See review ofCraft recommended. Editor’s Choice. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) in America: Messages in VL-11/11.

The newest program in Lionsgate and the late seminal guitarist in this engrossing clearly the best. Comprehensive, sober, and HIT Entertainment’s animated series documentary. Fahey, an American original balanced, the two-part profile proceeds in based on The Railway Stories by the Rev. who freely explored—even created—genres chronological fashion from Kennedy’s privi- W. Awdry is Thomas & Friends: The and styles on a journey of restless expres- leged birth up through his funeral. Part one Thomas Way (58 min., DVD: $14.98), sion, was a steel-string instrumentalist and covers Kennedy’s school years, early physical which includes the title episode, plus non-vocalist who energized the folk music problems, decorated service in World War “The Switch,” “Percy’s Lucky Day,” scene in the early 1960s with his cyclical, II, successful runs for both the U.S. House “Calm Down Caitlin,” and “The Lost repetitive rhythms. According to The Who’s and the Senate, and the 1960 presidential Puff.” See review of Thomas & Friends: Pete Townshend, Fahey lived and created campaign—both the primaries and general Santa’s Little Engine in VL-11/13. “in a bubble.” Filmmaker James Cullingham election. Part two concentrates on his thou- interweaves archival footage, animation, sand-day presidency, offering detailed exami- The latest addition to Paramount and interview clips as he explores both the nations of early missteps—most notably the Home Video and ’s popu- psychological and artistic reasons for Fahey’s Bay of Pigs—and the turnaround that came lar preschool series Dora the Explorer is determination to remain a remote iconoclast with his skillful handling of the Cuban Mis- Dora’s Ice Skating Spectacular! (69 sheltered by mystique. The film covers the sile Crisis, opting for a sea blockade instead of min., DVD: $14.98), which includes musician’s mental decline during his later more hawkish alternatives. Kennedy’s escala- the wintery title story and the bonus years, when he lived in squalor while see- tion of American involvement in Vietnam episodes “Catch That Shape Train” and ing his artistic stock rise among a younger and his reluctant embrace of the Civil Rights “Dora and Perrito to the Rescue.” See re- generation of experimental musicians (such movement receive penetrating analysis here, view of Dora’s Christmas Carol Adventure as Sonic Youth), but it also looks at the as does the Camelot glamour that he and in VL-11/10. more vital years of Fahey’s youth, when his wife Jackie exuded, bringing them virtual laidback personality and sharp wit suited rock-star status. Narrated by Oliver Platt, JFK Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment’s his mesmerizing sounds. Musically inclined expertly blends archival footage with com- Barney: Perfectly Purple (52 min., viewers might wish there were more details mentary from a variety of scholars/authors DVD: $14.98) is the latest title in the on Fahey’s deliberate experiments in jazz, (including Robert Caro and Robert Dallek), series featuring the purple dino and classical, and electric guitar composition, who don’t hesitate to point out Kennedy’s pals Baby Bop, BJ, and Riff, who explore but the trade-off here is that the film does failings—including his inveterate woman- friendship and fun in the episodes deliver penetrating commentary on Fahey’s izing—along with his virtues. And they “A Perfectly Purple Day,” “Arts,” and influences (including nature), his passion remind us that Kennedy’s presidency was “Neighborhood.” See review of Barney: for the guitar as a personal instrument, and a work in progress: many initiatives stalled Best Manners in VL Online-3/04. his legacy. DVD extras include performance when he died, and were only brought to clips of Fahey and others, as well as extended fruition by successor LBJ, whose hand was Also newly avail- interviews. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. strengthened by Kennedy’s martyrdom. An able from HIT and (T. Keogh) excellent biographical portrait, this is highly Lionsgate is Angelina recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek) Ballerina: Twirling JFK HHH1/2 Tales (61 min., DVD: (2013) 2 discs. 240 min. DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: $14.99), the latest in $34.99. PBS Video (avail. from most distributors). O their computer-ani- SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-965-0 (dvd), nline mated series about the 978-1-60883-966-7 (blu-ray). Visit Video Librarian Online (www. titular dancing mouseling, who here Of the many TV documentaries made videolibrarian.com) for more reviews dur- prepares for a Spring Fling performance. to commemorate the 50th anniversary of ing January and February, including: An See review of Angelina Ballerina: The Show the assassination of President John F. Ken- Apology to Elephants, Honor Flight, Is School Must Go On—Christmas in Mouseland in nedy, filmmaker Susan Bellows’sJFK— aired Enough?, Mallamall, and much more! VL-11/03. on PBS’s American Experience series—was

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 74 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Japanese Anime

AKB0048: Season One (preferably with deep-tongue action). Even of Turan, the Ades Federation launches HH1/2 with the kitsch and cheesecake erotica, an attack, and Millia—the last Turan (2012) 325 min. DVD: 3 Campione! still boasts some genuinely stirring princess—finds protection with the ragtag discs, $59.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, moments. Presenting all 13 episodes from the Sky Pirates, who prowl the Blue World $69.98. 2012 series in dual-language sets on DVD and airways in Robin Hood fashion (assuming (avail. from most distributors). Blu-ray, rated TV-MA, this is recommended. that the Merry Men were more like perky ISBN: 978-1-6161-5345-8 (C. Cassady) 15-year-old girls on cool flying cycles). (dvd), 978-1-6161-5346-5 (blu-ray). Fam, an alpha Sky Pirate, becomes Princess Millia’s BFF and protector in her quest to AKB0048 is set in a future where all forms Kokoro Connect: The gather allies against the Federation. Hand- of entertainment have been banned on the Complete TV Series somely visualized (partial CGI brings to inhabitable planets in the universe. Enforc- HHH1/2 life a steam-punk-techno look), this set of ing this ban is a group known as DES, which (2012) 325 min. DVD: 3 the first 12 episodes from the 2011 series will stop at nothing to ensure that no singing discs, $59.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, features flashbacks to help desperate new- takes place. But DES’s reign of terror is being $69.98. Sentai Filmworks (avail. from most distributors). bies catch up with the tangled mythology challenged by the young girls of AKB0048, ISBN: 978-1-6161-5410-3 (dvd), and it ends with a cliffhanger. Presented futuristic fictional heirs to the real-life all-girl 978-1-6161-5411-3 (blu-ray). in a dual-language Blu-ray/DVD Combo Japanese pop band AKB48. The 13-episode The old comic plot twist of - set, rated TV-14, extras include episode debut 2012 season starts with American Idol- ping (remember 18 Again! or Freaky Friday?) commentaries, short sketches, and a Q&A style auditions, after which the chosen girls receives a strange twist in this anime series learn to work together as performers and as with the animators at 2011. about five students—three girls and two Recommended. [Note: Last Exile: Fam, The fighters against DES treachery. Unfortunately, boys—who belong to a school-based project however, the characters are bland, the plots Silver Wing—Part Two is also newly avail- called the Cultural Study Club. One day, able.] (C. Cassady) uneventful, and some viewers may find the they discover that they can switch bod- J-pop soundtrack to be something of an ies among each other, and through this Michiko & Hatchin, Part acquired taste. Nonetheless, the idea of girl newfound talent the club members learn singer-soldiers rocketing around the galaxy painful and often harrowing lessons about One HH1/2 with guns on their hips and songs on their (2008) 4 discs. 275 min. Blu- previously hidden neuroses and jealousies. ray/DVD Combo: $64.98. lips carries a certain charm, and the series The group also must deal with a mysterious deserves some credit for its good-humored Funimation (avail. from most adult who is aware of their powers (having distributors). ISBN: 1-4210- musical spin on a well-worn anime genre. exchanged physical forms with one of their 2718-6. Presented in DVD and Blu-ray dual-language teachers, this individual now has access to sets, rated TV-PG, this is a strong optional What’s the difference their everyday lives). While one of the seg- between the anime series Michiko & Hatchin purchase. [Note: AKB0048: Season Two is ments is played for crass laughs—a girl who’s slated for release on Feb. 4.] (P. Hall) and a Robert Rodriguez movie? Well, Ro- afraid of men after a would-be sexual assault driguez is actually more cartoon-y, and learns the value of placing kicks his films can feature full female nudity, Campione! Complete to an attacker’s crotch—the series features a whereas this Nippon TV entry simply teases Collection HHH surprising number of mature scenarios that viewers with the skimpy garb of hot-tamale (2012) 325 min. DVD: 3 cruelly expose the characters’ emotional heroine Michiko, a notorious outlaw and discs, $59.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, vulnerabilities. Compiling all 13 episodes recent prison escapee living in a pulp- $69.98. Sentai Filmworks from 2012 in a dual-language set, rated TV- (avail. from most distributors). fictional amalgam of Mexico and Brazil ISBN: 978-1-6161-5405-9 14, Kokoro Connect is a fine series that serves (although everyone has Japanese names, (dvd), 978-1-6161-5406-6 up morality lessons cloaked in a light sci-fi except for Russian mobsters). Michiko (blu-ray). setting. Highly recommended. [Note: Kokoro swings by the cruel household of an evil In this -derived Clash of the Titans- Connect: Original Anime Selection is also newly priest to rescue from Dickensian foster-mis- ish series, the gods naturally can show up available.] (P. Hall) ery the 9-year-old blonde waif Hana, aka attired as Tokyo schoolgirls. Japanese teen Hatchin, who may or may not be Michiko’s Kusanagi Godo is traveling in Italy when he Last Exile: Fam, The own child. Together the pair search for the realizes his destiny of becoming a “Campi- Silver Wing—Part One mysterious Hiroshi Morenos—Michiko’s one,” a superhuman able to slay gods. With an HHH lost love—who vanished amidst under- approaching doomsday-prophecy deadline, (2011) 4 discs. 300 min. Blu- world intrigues (Hiroshi may or may not be Kusanagi is challenged by numerous “rogue” ray/DVD Combo: $64.98. Hatchin’s father). The loosely-plotted quest deities (most derived from Greco-Roman Funimation (avail. from most varies wildly in tone, from action antics sources) and monsters, as well as unethical distributors). ISBN: 1-4210- in which a Lara Croft-y lead pretty much rival Campiones, who hoard the powers of 2671-6. ignores all of the bullets being fired at her, gods they have vanquished...or something In the comics-derived Last Exile fran- to moody character-based episodes, mak- like that. Epic battles typically cue sidebar- chise, after calamity struck the water- ing for a striking, if also somewhat uneven soliloquies about the origins and taxonomy dominated Blue World, most of humanity series. Compiling the first 11 episodes from of gods such as Apollo, Mithras, and Athena. was evacuated via mysterious, powerful the 2008-09 run on a dual-language Blu- But the standard texts of Joseph Campbell giant machines called Exiles, which later ray/DVD Combo set, rated TV-MA, extras and Edith Hamilton were never like this returned them home (and now remain in include episode commentaries, a featurette “ comedy” in which Kusanagi sud- dormant orbit like multiple moons). But with lead American voice actress Monica denly finds himself amidst a servile quartet these events also created rival kingdoms: Rial, and a Japanese press conference of sexy, scantily dressed paranormal girls, the former refugees vs. the Ades Federation with (female) director Sayo Yamamoto. A all competing for his love. And the kicker: of heavily militarized, hardened survivors strong optional purchase. [Note: Michiko & these goddesses can only download vital who never left the planet. Under pretext Hatchin, Part Two is also newly available.] mythological intel to Kusanagi via kissing of peace talks with the returnee kingdom (C. Cassady)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 75 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Music Dance Ashton Celebration: cross between Lynyrd Skynyrd and Alice in sings smoothly, but lightly—so lightly that The Royal Ballet Dances Chains. Within the “unplugged” configura- the brassy accompaniment sometimes threat- tion, Wylde alternates between rockers and ens to drown her out, but she always manages Frederick Ashton power ballads on songs including “Stillborn,” to come through. Occasional audience shots HHH1/2 “” and “.” reveal attendees swaying to the beat, but (2013) 84 min. DVD: $29.99, Extras include an interview with Wylde, a director Helen Scott wisely keeps the focus Blu-ray: $39.99. Opus Arte visit to a British prison where Wylde plays two on Emerald, who sings, dances, and converses (dist. by Naxos of America). songs and takes questions from the audience, between songs. Alongside conventional The premier British cho- and a music video for “Losin’ Your Mind.” instruments like piano, bass, guitar, and reographer of the 20th century, Frederick Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and drums, a DJ adds samples of record scratches Ashton (1904-1988) served as the artistic stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM and vocals from Louis Armstrong (some jazz director of the Royal Ballet from 1963 to stereo on Blu-ray, this is a strong optional fans may balk, but it’s fairly subtle and unob- 1970 (the company’s golden age). Filmed at purchase. (K. Fennessy) trusive). Performing hits including “Stuck,” the Royal Opera House, this 2013 program “Back It Up,” and “A Night Like This,” Emer- celebrating Ashton’s prodigious talent fea- Bye HHH ald introduces “Completely” by noting that, tures five of his short ballets, which not only “This might be the most personal song I’ve demonstrate his variety and creativity over (2012) 22 min. DVD: $19.99. Kultur International Films ever written.” Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby a two-decade span—from 1958 to 1977—but (avail. from most distributors). Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and DTS- also underscore his enduring influence on the ISBN: 978-0-7697-5062-0. HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, extras Royal Ballet and English ballet in general. The Distinguished Swedish include an interview with Emerald, who cites first piece, set to Ravel’s increasingly corrosive choreographer Mats Ek cre- John Barry and Shirley Bassey as influences. La Valse, features the full company ensemble. ated this impressionistic Recommended. (K. Fennessy) Next up is a rapturous pas de deux for Leanne one-woman work in 2010 Benjamin and Valeri Hristov based on the as a quasi-farewell showpiece for Sylvie CeeLo Green is Méditation from Massenet’s opera Thaïs, fol- Guillem, who was the prima ballerina of the lowed by a lighthearted pairing for Yuhui Loberace: Live in Vegas Paris Opera in the late 1980s before moving Choe and Alexander Campbell drawing HH1/2 to London’s Royal Ballet and later to Sadler’s on Johann Strauss II’s Voices of Spring. The (2013) 85 min. DVD: $14.98, Wells Theatre. Set to Beethoven’s final piano fourth segment, set to music by Erik Satie, is Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock sonata (in an eccentric 1983 recording by Entertainment (avail. from Monotones I and II, featuring two groups of then-young Croatian wunderkind Ivo Pog- most distributors). three dancers who ultimately join together. orelich) and seen here in a 2012 performance, Grammy-winning singer- The fifth and longest piece isMarguerite and Bye is a virtuoso piece that straddles the line songwriter CeeLo Green takes center stage Armand, a mini-romantic-tragedy set to Liszt between ballet and modern dance, exhibiting that was originally danced by Fonteyn and in this 2013 performance filmed at Planet Guillem’s prowess in both. Guillem passes Nureyev, and is performed here by Sergei Hollywood in Las Vegas. Backed by plenty through a brightly lit door in mid-stage and Polunin and Tamara Rojo, the latter in one of bling and booty-shaking babes, the portly of her final performances as the company’s then energetically struggles toward and away vocalist opens this 18-song set (including a principal dancer before taking over the from other doors in which various human few medleys) with “Lady Killer” and “Bright artistic directorship of the English National figures can be glimpsed—an expression of Lights, Bigger City,” before segueing into a Ballet. All of the music is expertly conducted the mixture of trepidation and liberation Stevie Wonder-ish version of INXS’s “Need by Emmanuel Plasson. Presented in DTS 5.0 that comes with any major life transition (as You Tonight,” followed shortly by his rendi- (DTS-HD 5.0 on Blu-ray) and LPCM stereo, Ek explains in an accompanying bonus fea- tion of “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” (short answer, extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette. turette). The role is demanding, and Guillem no). And then things start getting weird on Highly recommended. (F. Swietek) tackles it with passionate artistry, making it this Loberace showcase, with a three-part a fine capstone to her remarkable career. Pre- medley featuring “Boy George” (as a RuPaul sented in LPCM stereo, this is recommended. superfan, I immediately recognized the : (F. Swietek) impersonator as Drag Race contestant Shan- HH1/2 nel, aka Bryan Watkins) but no CeeLo. The (2013) 165 min. DVD: $14.98, unremarkable tunes “Nothing’s Shocking Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock Caro Emerald in Concert Entertainment (avail. from HHH Anymore,” “Sideshow,” and “Fool for You” most distributors). (2013) 111 min. DVD: $14.98, lead into Green’s version of his Pussycat Dolls It’s hard to get excited Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock hit “Don’t Cha” (revised with manlier lyrics about a rock band that Entertainment (avail. from about being rich) and “Whoever Loves Me,” most distributors). sports such a generic sound, but fans who’ve which features a sample of the theme to the been following guitarist since his Jazz-pop entertainer classic sitcom Soap. The audience seems to years with certainly may feel Caro Emerald (Caroline Es- warm up considerably for a “Freak” medley, otherwise about Unblackened, which captures merelda van de Leeuw) turns on the charm a neat old-school influenced reunion of a stripped-down set at Los Angeles’s Club in this 18-song 2013 concert from the BBC Green’s old hip-hop group Goodie Mob (my Nokia in 2013 featuring Wylde, guitarist Radio Theatre in London. Adding electronic favorite moments, hands down), and the , and bassist John DeServio, touches, the Dutch vocalist reinvents a classic radio anthems “Crazy” and “Forget You.” who all remain seated the entire time (ironi- style for traditionalists and modernists alike. Unfortunately, the music is undercut by the cally, concertgoers on the floor have to stand Both Emerald and her band come dressed for gyrating chorus girls, horrible jokes, and due to the lack of seats). The other players the occasion in , which fits blatant onstage shilling for CeeLo’s green include drummer Chad Szeliga, vocalist Greg the retro vibe—with a black dress and white liqueur product. Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Locascio, and keyboard player Derek Sherin- bolero jacket for Emerald (the fashion lover Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and DTS- ian. The songs are serviceable, and Wylde also sparks up her look with red lipstick and HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, extras doesn’t have a bad voice, but the end result silver-glitter heels). As they segue between include an interview with Green. A strong plays like a less distinctive, mumble-heavy upbeat and down tempo selections, Emerald optional purchase. (J. Williams-Wood)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 76 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Deep Purple: Perfect Rombo vocally sailing into the stratosphere, livers bang for the buck in Live at Luna Park, while Johannes Martin Kränzle is powerful performing an epic 2012 concert at the titu- Strangers Live HH1/2 (1984) 141 min. DVD: $14.98. as N. (for Nietzsche) and Matthias Klink lar soccer stadium in Buenos Aires. Drum- Eagle Rock Entertainment equally strong as the foppish guest who mer Mike Mangini, who joined in time for (avail. from most distributors). is skinned but emerges as the god Apollo. A Dramatic Turn of Events (the band’s 11th It’s safe to say that most Presented in DTS 5.0, Dolby Digital 5.0, full-length studio album), rounds out the hard rock bands from the and PCM stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.0 lineup of James LaBrie (vocals), John Pe- last three decades would and PCM stereo on Blu-ray, extras include trucci (guitar), Jordan Rudess (keyboards), cite Deep Purple as one of their major influ- a booklet, and Bettina Ehrhardt’s documen- and John Myung (bass). The quintet serve ences. Along with Led Zeppelin and Black tary Ich Bin Dein Labyrinth, which is almost up a 17-song set during a 160-minute main Sabbath, Deep Purple defined the emerging critical viewing in order to decipher what is show that incorporates material dating genre of heavy metal in the early ‘70s. This happening onstage, and includes interviews back to their 1989 debut, When Dream live concert filmed at Melbourne, Australia, with Rihm, director Pierre Audi, designer and Day Unite, along with guitar, drum, during 1984 was part of a self-proclaimed Jonathan Meese, Metzmacher, and the main and keyboard solos (they’re also joined by reunion tour to promote the album Perfect singers. For the musically adventurous, this a local string quartet for four numbers). Strangers, a release that ended an eight-year is highly recommended. (F. Swietek) Highlights include fan favorites such as hiatus for the band, who appear here in “The Silent Man,” “Beneath the Surface,” their seminal lineup with vocalist Ian Gil- Don Giovanni HH “The Spirit Carries On,” and “The Root of lan, guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, drummer (2010) 183 min. DVD: 2 discs, All Evil.” Extras include six bonus songs, a Ian Paice, bassist Roger Glover, and Jon $39.99; Blu-ray: $39.99. Bel Air behind-the-scenes documentary (in which Classiques (dist. by Naxos of members discuss the departure of drummer Lord on keyboards. Along with the title America). track and other numbers from the then- Mike Portnoy), and a multi-angle version of new album—including “Knocking at Your In this 2010 staging at the song “Outcry.” Presented in DTS 5.1, Back Door”—the 14-song set features many the Aix-en-Provence Festi- Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and val of Mozart’s 1787 opera early favorites, such as “Space Truckin’,” DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, about the lecherous Don “Strange Kind of Woman,” “Highway Star” this is recommended. (K. Fennessy) Juan, director Dmitri Tcherniakov not only and an extended sing-along encore of their updates the piece to the present and extends signature anthem “Smoke on the Water.” East End Babylon: The the action over months, but also portrays While the ‘80s-era video quality is charac- the originally unrelated characters as the Story of the Cockney teristically substandard, the audio—with psychologically damaged members of a Rejects HHH DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo op- single family. In the process, Tcherniakov (2013) 90 min. DVD: $10.95. tions—is efficiently mastered, making the Music Video Distributors (avail. has removed every trace of humor from wailing, pounding, and crunching sound from most distributors). what the composer called a dramma giocoso, of this proto heavy metal band loud and For those who watch turning it into a dark domestic tragedy set clear. Extras include a behind-the-scenes Richard England’s docu- entirely in a richly appointed private library tour featurette. A strong optional purchase. mentary on punk rock legends the Cock- and focusing on the decline of an aging lo- (T. Fr y) ney Rejects—presented entirely from the thario left with only a pitiful remnant of his perspective of the band members them- seductive powers. The musical performance selves—it might help to have more than a Dionysos HHH1/2 does not salvage this production: the play- passing acquaintance with various aspects (2010) 2 discs. 122 min. In ing by the original-instrument Freiburger German w/English subtitles. of British subculture. Formed in 1978 by the Barockorchester under the baton of Louis DVD or Blu-ray: $39.99. brothers Jeff and Micky Geggus, along with Langrée is fiercely dramatic, missing much EuroArts/Unitel Classica (dist. their brother-in-law Chris Murrell on bass, by Naxos of America). of the music’s gracefulness, and the cast and drummer Paul Harvey, the group was The spectacle is as im- members—especially Bo Skovhus as the signed by EMI a year later, and in 1980 their portant as the music in severely depressed Don Giovanni—are single “Oi! Oi! Oi!” set the foundation for Wolfgang Rihm’s opera, actually often more convincing in their act- what later became the Oi genre. While their captured here during its 2010 Salzburg ing than their singing. Why the festival— musical advocacy of West Ham Football and Festival premiere. Rihm constructed the turning out sane and respectful Mozart distaste for British politicians initially lim- libretto from scattered lines of Friedrich performances since 1948—chose to take ited their appeal to working-class Britain, Nietzsche’s Dionysos-Dithyramben poems, such an uncharacteristic approach to this it also drew the attention of local neo-Nazi arranged here as a series of scenes from masterpiece remains a mystery. Presented in groups and the notorious hooligan element the philosopher’s life and presented in the Dolby Digital 5.1 and PCM stereo on DVD, that turned sporting events into brawling phantasmagorical terms he might have and DTS-HD 5.1 and PCM stereo on Blu-ray, riots. This nasty edge ultimately spilled into experienced as he slid into insanity. But extras include a “making-of” featurette. A their concerts, and the Cockney Rejects’ Nietzsche’s disorientation is also portrayed much better choice here would be the 2008 political messaging was frequently twisted as an ascent to Dionysian ecstasy, complete Covent Garden mounting (VL-9/09). Not a by the local media as expressions of severe with Greek gods, bevies of nymphs, and necessary purchase. (F. Swietek) antisocial behavior. Personnel changes and bizarre masked figures placed against set- shifting tastes saw their star power ebb and tings that have a pop-art feel. Essentially Dream Theater: Live at flow over the years, but time has ultimately an atonal score, the music is full of lush Luna Park HHH been their ally, as they continue to enjoy a romantic overtones similar to those Berg (2013) 231 min. DVD: 2 discs, worldwide base attracted by their visceral brought to Lulu, and is deftly played by the $17.98, Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle energy. Punk aficionados will savor the rich Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester of Berlin Rock Entertainment (avail. soundtrack mix of the band’s best music, under the baton of conductor Ingo Metz- from most distributors). while Anglophiles will certainly get a kick macher. The singing is also remarkable, The New York prog-met- out of this rocking portrait of Britain in the with sopranos Mojca Erdmann and Elin al band Dream Theater de- 1980s. Recommended. (P. Hall)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 77 VIDEO LIBRARIAN The Freddie Mercury about “authenticity” but thrives on fabricated him at home and at church. As a teenager, HHH image and fakery (phoniness embodied by Morrison studied at the New South Wales Tribute Concert one of the film’s primary interviewees, Chris Conservatorium, where he so impressed (1992) 270 min. DVD: 3 discs, $29.98, Blu-ray: $24.98. Eagle Rock of Island Records, a white Londoner Burrows that the band leader added him to Rock Entertainment (avail. who has remade himself in the image of a his quintet (Morrison played with Burrows from most distributors). South Central L.A. gangsta). A fascinating for six years before striking out on his own). This concert honoring and entertaining music documentary, this is Another influence, Dizzy Gillespie, proclaims the late Queen frontman highly recommended. (M. Sandlin) Morrison “one of the best.” As an entertainer, and rock icon was a major entry in the age Morrison likes to joke around on stage, but of mega-productions that began in 1985 with Hugh Laurie: Live on the he takes his music seriously. Other notable speakers praising his work include Australian Live Aid. Organized by surviving Queen Queen Mary HH1/2 members Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John (2013) 106 min. DVD: $14.98, guitarist Tommy Emmanuel and jazz critic Deacon, the show marked the establishment Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock Leonard Feather, who caught a gig at the of the Mercury Phoenix Trust for AIDS educa- Entertainment (avail. from Village Vanguard, and found Morrison to tion and research (Mercury died from AIDS most distributors). be “equally adept on the trumpet and the in November, 1991). Presented in April 1992 Like many actors whose trombone.” Presented in LPCM stereo, this at London’s Wembley Stadium before an celebrity has allowed them is recommended. (K. Fennessy) audience of 72,000, the opening act included to indulge other interests, Hugh Laurie par- tribute performances by Metallica, Def Lep- layed his success as the star of the Fox drama La Fanciulla del West pard, Guns N’ Roses, and others, while the House for eight seasons into a side career as HHH main show found Queen playing as the house pianist and lead singer of a blues ensemble (2012) 140 min. DVD: $24.99, band for the likes of Roger Daltrey (“I Want It called the Copper Bottom Band. This PBS- Blu-ray: $39.99. EuroArts/ All”), Robert Plant (“Crazy Little Thing Called aired 2013 concert is filmed on the Queen Unitel Classica (dist. by Naxos Love”), Seal (“Who Wants to Live Forever”), Mary in Long Beach, CA, where Laurie’s of America). (“We Are the Champions”), and idol, New Orleans blues legend Professor European directors ap- others. The 30-plus performances of primar- Longhair, recorded an album in 1975 that pear to be more frequently ily Queen and Mercury compositions here are Laurie says changed his life. The 18-song set adopting the idea of reframing operas in topped by a pair of duets: Annie Lennox and features mostly blues standards—including cinematic terms, which is the approach taken David Bowie on “Under Pressure” and Elton “Staggerlee,” “Louisiana Blues,” and “Swanee here by Christof Loy to Puccini’s 1910 Wild John and Axl Rose on “Bohemian Rhapsody.” River”—interspersed with engaging remarks West piece in this 2012 staging for the Royal Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu- from Laurie. While reasonably pleasant enter- Swedish Opera. The orchestral prologue is set ray release) and LPCM stereo, extras include a tainment, no one would seriously argue that to a filmed credits sequence aping the style of 10th anniversary documentary, and rehearsal Laurie is anything more than a competent 1950s Westerns—complete with Monument footage. Recommended. (T. Fr y) keyboardist or that he has a great voice (it’s no Valley vistas—and projections mimicking the wonder that he turns over several numbers to onstage action appear periodically against The Great Hip Hop Hoax his backup crew—singers and instrumental- the rear of the stage. Fortunately, the concept ists—who are excellent.) Presented in DTS HHH1/2 doesn’t overwhelm the story, which for the 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and (2013) 88 min. DVD: $16.95. most part is presented in proper period cos- Music Video Distributors (avail. DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, ex- tume (the sets are relatively spare, but some from most distributors). tras include an interview with Laurie. While striking visual effects offer compensation). As a brazen act of defi- it feels a bit like a vanity project, this will no Happily, the musical side of the production ance—fueled by desper- doubt appeal to Laurie’s many fans, making is excellent, with Nina Stemme in powerful ate ambitions to transcend it a strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek) voice as Minnie, the barkeeper who rescues their boring lives—the titular hip-hop her lover, bandit Dick Johnson, from the identity fraud perpetrated by the Scottish James Morrison: The clutches of Sheriff Jack Rance. John Lundgren duo Silibil N’ Brains definitely goes beyond Wizard from Oz HHH cuts a menacing figure as the lusty lawman, faking a little street cred. Gavin Bain and (1989) 54 min. DVD: $19.99. and although Aleksandrs Antonenko seems Billy Boyd—best friends blessed with a fair Kultur International Films a trifle weak as Johnson, the rest of the cast amount of rhyming/rapping talent—initially (avail. from most distributors). registers strongly, while Pier Giorgio Morandi have their dreams of stardom dashed: during ISBN: 978-0-7697-5061-3. leads the company orchestra and chorus in a a humiliating audition in London, record This engaging profile, committed reading that misses only the final execs snidely dismiss them as the “rapping which aired on Australian measure of fire and passion.The Girl of the Proclaimers.” But with their talent for mim- television in 1989, spot- Golden West, as the title is usually translated, icking American accents, Gavin and Billy lights a unique musical talent. James Mor- lacks the famous tunes of the composer’s set out to meticulously craft for themselves rison is not only one of the rare antipodean more popular works, but it’s an expertly an image of snotty Eminem-type California citizens who have made a mark on the inter- crafted piece, and this performance is pref- rappers…and almost immediately begin to national jazz scene, he’s also a multi-instru- erable to the visually wacky mounting from see doors opening. After a single gig, the pair mentalist (playing the trumpet, trombone, the Opera (VL-3/11). Presented attract major-label interest: nearly literally and euphonium). This music documentary in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and PCM stereo overnight their wildest visions of fame seem combines interviews and performance clips, on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and PCM stereo on to be coming true. But will the industry out including a session with Morrison’s men- Blu-ray, this is recommended. (F. Swietek) them as frauds? Although director Jeanie tor, Don Burrows; an engagement with the Finlay’s The Great Hip Hop Hoax doesn’t always World Superband in New York; and a concert Lucrezia Borgia HH1/2 show Gavin and Billy in the most sympathetic at Switzerland’s prestigious Montreux Jazz (2013) 127 min. In Italian w/English subtitles. light, it’s hard to fault the pair of gutsy Scots Festival. The horn player, who also races DVD: 2 discs, $24.99; Blu-ray: $39.99. EuroArts for effectively exposing the shallowness and cars and pilots planes, hails from a musical (dist. by Naxos of America). gullibility of an industry that talks smack family, who appear here to sing and play with The prospect of hearing much-loved Renée

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 78 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 Fleming in a demanding Covent Garden (VL-11/10), and the Salzburg Morrissey: 25Live coloratura role in one of Festival (VL-5/12). In this particular staging, HHH Gaetano Donizetti’s bel the drawbacks—somewhat dated sound (2013) 92 min. DVD: $14.98, canto operas is enticing, and a cramped aspect ratio reflecting the Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock but this 2013 San Fran- standards of the time—are overridden by Entertainment (avail. from cisco Opera mounting of the musical attributes. Andrew Davis draws most distributors). the composer’s titular 1833 lush playing from the London Philharmonic, Indie rock legend Mor- romantic tragedy center- giving the score romantic ripeness without rissey—who fronted The ing on the notorious Renaissance femme sacrificing its spiky underpinnings. Christine Smiths from 1982-87—takes the stage at fatale is disappointing—largely because of Schäfer is a masterly Lulu, both in terms of for this intimate Fleming’s subpar contribution. The libretto her properly fierce acting and her ability to 19-song set from 2013, celebrating 25 years is historical nonsense: after Lucrezia discov- cope with the role’s vocal demands (she’s of a solo career (albeit two-phase: 1988-1997 ers her long-lost son Gennaro, her husband also ably supported by Kathryn Harries, and 2003-2010). Backed by an almost entirely Alfonso suspects her of having an affair with Wolfgang Schöne, and the rest of the cast). buff five-piece boy band, the middle-aged the lad and hatches a plot to poison him; Even the vaguely modern costumes and the bard of the morose opens with “Alma Mat- even though Lucrezia intervenes, Gennaro spare stage set (a tall curving brick wall with a ters,” lyrically setting the scene for what’s to prefers to die along with the other victims circular staircase) work in this case. Presented follow (“this is my life to destroy my own of Alfonso’s dastardly scheme. Fleming cuts in LPCM stereo, this is highly recommended. way”). Morrissey’s velvet vocals (“I have a a striking figure as the dubious heroine, (F. Swietek) lovely singing voice,” he says here, and he but her singing lacks the focus and spark does) shine on songs that range from the demanded by Donizetti’s vocal pyrotech- Moby-Dick HHH1/2 political “Irish Blood, English Heart,” to the nics, coming across as rather cautious and (2012) 142 min. DVD: 2 heartbreaking “Let Me Kiss You” (“so close even pallid. By contrast Michael Fabiano is discs, $24.99; Blu-ray: $39.99. your eyes/and think of someone you physi- a ringing Gennaro and Elizabeth DeShong EuroArts (dist. by Naxos of cally admire/and let me kiss you”), to the ag- is fine in the trousers role of his comrade-in- America). gressively vegetarian in the Smiths’ hit “Meat arms Orsini, although director John Pascoe Since 2000’s Dead Man Is Murder” (“and the turkey you festively overplays the sexual attraction between the Walking, American com- slice—murder”). What makes Morrissey so two men. The remainder of the cast is good poser Jake Heggie has cre- much fun is the combination of eloquent if unexceptional, Riccardo Frizza’s conduct- ated a string of operas that have been Debbie Downer lyrics with infectious pop ing seems more efficient than inspired, and warmly received by critics and the public rock on songs like “Everyday Is Like Sunday,” the sets and costumes veer from dark and alike. His latest, Moby-Dick—an adaptation “Ouija Board, Ouija Board,” “November uninteresting to simply garish. Ultimately, of Herman Melville’s literary classic written Spawned a Monster,” “Speedway,” “You’re this production demanded an outstanding for the opening of the new Dallas opera the One for Me Fatty,” and “I’m Throwing Lucrezia to rise above the ordinary, and house in 2010—is performed here in this My Arms Around Paris” (sounds upbeat, I Fleming simply doesn’t fill the bill. The 2009 2012 mounting by the San Francisco Opera. know, but…Paris gets the nod “because only Munich performance with Edita Gruberova While certainly his most ambitious work to stone and steel accept my love”). Although (VL-5/10) is preferable, despite its minimalist date, Moby-Dick still boasts a traditionally you wouldn’t know it from watching this staging. Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital tonal and immediately accessible score that solid concert, Morrissey was checked into a 5.1, and PCM stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD often sounds like film music, albeit with hospital with double pneumonia five days af- 5.1 and PCM stereo on Blu-ray, extras include hints of Benjamin Britten. The libretto ter the show. Extras include in-session studio interviews with Fleming, Fabiano, and De- by Gene Scheer obviously prunes down recordings of four songs (three of which are Shong, and a behind-the-scenes featurette. the novel, but does so with sensitivity, also performed during the concert, including Optional. (F. Swietek) producing a well-flowing narrative that the rousing “Action Is My Middle Name”), be- gives Heggie numerous opportunities for hind-the-scenes footage, and a brief interview expressive touches. The physical produc- HHH1/2 clip with Russell Brand, who introduced the Lulu tion is elaborate: Robert Brill’s shipboard (1996) 183 min. Blu-ray: singer at the concert. Presented in DTS 5.1, $29.99. Kultur International set with riggings, masts, and whale-render- Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and Films (avail. from most ing apparatus is supplemented by Elaine DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, this distributors). ISBN: 978-0- J. McCarthy’s imaginative rear projection is recommended. (R. Pitman) 7697-50 63 -7. imagery, which allows sailors to appear Despite some limitations, to be perched in whaleboats in a surging this Blu-ray release of a 1996 sea—paddling about amidst huge waves— Oil City Confidential Glyndebourne production is a formidable among other special effects. Conductor HHH contender amongst the various versions Patrick Summers leads the orchestra with (2013) 106 min. DVD: $10.95. available of Alban Berg’s 1937 opera about a sure hand, and the vocalism is excellent, Music Video Distributors the ultimate femme fatale, an amoral seduc- with Jay Hunter Morris an obvious stand- (avail. from most distributors). tress who disposes of several husbands and out as the obsessive Captain Ahab, and The title of filmmaker suitors before being killed (along with her Stephen Costello impressive as Greenhorn Julien Temple’s amusing lesbian lover) by Jack the Ripper. For a long (ultimately revealed as Ishmael). Presented documentary about the time, Lulu had a reputation as a somewhat in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and PCM British band Dr. Feelgood—who pretty much forbidding exercise in 12-tone serial com- stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and PCM invented the pub rock genre in 1971—refers position, and performances were relatively stereo on Blu-ray, extras include interviews to a below-sea-level enclave about an hour rare. But since the unfinished third act was with Heggie, Scheer, Summers, and major east of London called Canvey Island, home completed by Friedrich Cerha in 1979, the cast members, and a behind-the-scenes to massive refineries that share space with full piece has gained recognition as one of featurette. A large-scale contemporary ramshackle cottages and a close-knit commu- the modern masterpieces in the repertory, opera that is easy on the ear and attractive nity that spawned Dr. Feelgood. Oil City Con- and been served well on disc, with excel- to the eye, this is highly recommended. fidential is hosted by original guitarist Wilko lent recent versions from Zurich (VL-9/04), (F. Swietek) Johnson, a manic, bullet-headed whirlwind

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 79 VIDEO LIBRARIAN who tells the story of both Canvey Island include extended scenes, behind-the-scenes progressive rock and heavy metal by drawing and the band’s origins with wacky charm featurettes, and a music video. Exclusive to on influences ranging from Deep Purple (Der- and a touching sense of nostalgia. Temple the Blu-ray release is a “Fan Cut” version ek Sherinian’s dramatic keyboard playing) to (who made the acclaimed Sex Pistols opus, of the film with four additional songs, and Metallica (Tony MacAlpine’s rapid-fire guitar The Great Rock ‘N’ Roll Swindle) directs with more. Optional. (S. Granger) leads). As drummer Mike Portnoy, who played a snappy, frenetic style, combining archival with Sherinian in the prog-metal band Dream concert footage, home movies, real and faux The Perfect American Theater, explains to an enthusiastic audi- film clips, and contemporary interviews HHH ence, their 12-song (plus solos) set combines with both the band’s surviving members (2013) 120 min. DVD: $29.99, work that the members recorded separately (singer Lee Brilleaux died in 1994) and other Blu-ray: $39.99. Opus Arte and together, such as “The Stranger” from sixtysomething characters who were in Dr. (dist. by Naxos of America). MacAlpine’s 1986 Edge of Insanity album, Feelgood’s dizzying orbit. Although their The title of Philip Glass’s which also featured bass player Billy Sheehan music was a punky mixture of American latest so-called “portrait (Mr. Big, David Lee Roth). Since the others southern blues, R&B, and straight ahead opera” is definitely ironic, prefer playing to speaking (and Sheehan’s rock, it was flavored by the culture of Canvey since the piece draws an unflattering picture “Shy Boy” from his former band Talas is the Island. DVD extras include bonus interview of beloved House of Mouse founder Walt Dis- only vocal selection), the outgoing Portnoy clips. A solid profile likely to appeal to older ney. The libretto, fashioned by Rudy Wurlitzer doubles as master of ceremonies. Aside from punk rockers and fans of Temple’s other mu- from a novel by Peter Stephan Jungk, begins the originals, the players cover Jeff Beck’s sic docs, this is recommended. (T. Fr y) with Disney (Christopher Purves) at the end regal track “The Pump.” From start to fin- of his life, dying in a hospital, where he ish, the band moves quickly and works well One Direction: reflects on his childhood and later career. together, but they eschew memorable motifs HH What we see is not the genial Uncle Walt in favor of head-banging beats (and air guitar- (2013) 92 min. DVD: $30.99, of TV appearances but rather a right-wing worthy moves). The editing and camerawork Blu-ray/DVD Combo: ideologue and philandering racist who mer- acknowledges the members’ secondary roles $35.99. Home cilessly drove a far more artistically talented as music instructors with frequent close-ups Entertainment (avail. from staff—including Dantine (Donald Kaasch), on their fingers. Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby most distributors). a dedicated member of the animation team Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD Documentary filmmaker with leftist leanings, who Disney summarily 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, extras in- Morgan Spurlock catapulted dismissed. The disjunction between Disney’s clude a behind-the-scenes featurette. A strong into the national spotlight when he stuffed public and private faces isn’t a bad premise optional purchase. (K. Fennessy) himself with McDonald’s hamburgers in for an opera, but it’s consistently undermined Super Size Me. Now he’s cashing in on a global here by Wurlitzer’s inability to create a cohe- : pop music phenomenon with this authorized, sive narrative arc, coupled with obstinately Sweet Summer Sun— relatively staid, but mostly insipid concert flat, mundane writing that even a fine cast documentary centered on the wildly popular, Hyde Park Live HHH1/2 can’t quite transcend. Fortunately, the music (2013) 118 min. DVD: $14.98, British/Irish boy band One Direction. Filmed partially makes up for the libretto’s flaws: during the group’s 2012-13 world tour, the Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock Glass’s score is one of his most interesting, Entertainment (avail. from film draws on live footage from more than juxtaposing his usual insistent, minimalist most distributors). 100 shows, ranging from London’s O2 Arena propulsion against sweeter, more lyrical to stops in Europe, Asia, Australia, Mexico, Most rock bands from the moments, with even a few brassy outbursts, 1960s that are still playing can be found on and North America, including Manhattan’s as well as richer orchestration than he ordi- Madison Square Garden and Los Angeles’s the oldies circuit, serving up bland hit med- narily employs. In this 2013 premiere from leys in hour-long sets before toddling offstage Staples Center. Spurlock superficially profiles Madrid’s Teatro Real, Dennis Russell Davie the five slouching, working-class lads, who to get an early night’s rest. Not the Rolling superbly conducts the orchestra, and the Stones. Forty-four years after they first wowed range in age from 19 to 21: mop-topped Harry physical production—which includes projec- Styles, bland Louis Tomlinson, generous the crowd at the Glastonbury Festival in Lon- tions of approximations of Disney’s animal don’s Hyde Park, the original bad boys of rock Zayn Malik (who buys his mother a house), characters—is often striking. Presented in acoustic guitar-playing Niall Horan, and ‘n’ roll made their second appearance—in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on Blu-ray) and LPCM summer 2013—for this 16-song hit-laden set heavily-accented Liam Payne. Along the way, stereo, extras include a cast gallery. This is an the documentary looks at their unlikely be- in front of 100,000-plus fans. Backed by tow- imperfect American, but on the basis of the ering video projection screens on a massive ginning in 2010, when they were matched as score alone is recommended. (F. Swietek) mates by Simon Cowell on The X Factor com- stage with a long runway, the Stones start it petition; their squealing, screaming fans; and up with “Start Me Up,” kicked off with Keith their adjustment to fame and fortune, which Portnoy Sheehan Richards’ signature guitar riff, while svelte- includes visits from Chris Rock and Martin MacAlpine Sherinian: and-strutting 70(!)-year-old frontman Mick Scorsese, and reportedly selling more than Live in Tokyo HH1/2 Jagger embarks on his trademark hyperkinetic 16 million worldwide. Unlike some (2012) 106 min. DVD: $14.98, concert-long walk/run/funky chicken dance other pop music documentaries, there’s no Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock (I suspect Jagger put in miles before the end drinking, smoking, drugs, or sex here (hard Entertainment (avail. from of the show). The third founding member, partying seems to be verboten, as well as any most distributors). Charlie Watts, sets the rhythmic pace, while mention of Styles’s brief fling with songbird Throughout this Novem- Ronnie-come-lately-Wood (only a Stone since Taylor Swift). But then again this profile is ber 2012 engagement at Zepp Tokyo, four 1975) lays down a wall of guitar sound. And duly authorized under Pepsi sponsorship, seasoned musicians play the kind of super- the backup band shines—including decades- and vetted not only by Columbia TriStar charged instrumental rock more likely to ap- long Stones musicians Darryl Jones on bass, but also by Syco Records (Simon Cowell’s peal to aspiring players than casual fans, not Chuck Leavell on keyboards, Bobby Keys on production company), and the quintet’s least because their tour grew out of a series of sax, and Lisa Fischer on vocals; even former management. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 music clinics. In terms of genres, the hyper- guitarist Mick Taylor makes a welcome re- on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 on Blu-ray, extras democratic quartet bridges the gap between union appearance on a wonderfully long

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 80 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 and rambling “Midnight Rambler,” as well productions, this is highly recommended. “The Way You Do the Things You Do” and as on the classic closer, “(I Can’t Get No) Sat- (R. Pitman) Al Green’s “Here I Am (Come and Take Me).” isfaction.” The nonstop hit parade includes These up-tempo classics work better than “Street Fighting Man,” “Ruby Tuesday,” Springsteen & I HHH the mid-tempo songs that comprise much of “Honky Tonk Women,” “Miss You,” “Gimme (2013) 142 min. DVD: $14.98, their original material, with the exception of Shelter,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “Sympathy for Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock the protest anthem “One in Ten.” Although the Devil,” and a beautiful, chorus-backed Entertainment (avail. from Ali handles the lion’s share of the vocals, rendition of “You Can’t Always Get What You most distributors). Falconer picks up the mic to toast on “Reg- Want.” Never serving up workmanlike note- Ridley Scott served as pro- gae Music” and “Rat in Mi Kitchen” (Astro for-note versions of their songs, the Stones ducer for this Bruce Spring- and Hassan also trade vocals on the Slickers’ manage to keep things loose throughout steen-centric documentary “Johnny Too Bad”). The 21-song set ends while also sounding amazingly tight for a from Baillie Walsh, in which with their signature cover, Neil Diamond’s band playing in a huge outdoor venue. Extras fans provide the stories, performance footage, “Red, Red Wine.” For an encore, they play include three bonus numbers (including a and three-word descriptions of the Boss, such two more Labour favorites, Eric Donaldson’s fine “Paint It Black”). Presented in DTS 5.1, as “passion, desire, freedom.” One Dutch “Cherry Oh Baby” and a version of Jimmy Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, and man caught his first Springsteen concert Cliff’s yearning “Many Rivers to Cross” DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, when he was 9 years old (it clocked in at (which would have benefited from a statelier this amazing concert proves that the Stones three and a half hours), and has been a fan pace). While the music comes across clearly, can still bring it a half-century on. Highly ever since. Other speakers describe onstage the commentary between some songs could recommended. (R. Pitman) encounters, including a Scottish woman have used a little post-production sweetening, who got her wish to dance with Springsteen since some words are impossible to make out. : The Musical like Courteney Cox in the “Dancing in the Debuting on Blu-ray with DTS-HD 5.1 and HHH1/2 Dark” music video, and an Elvis impersonator LPCM stereo sound options, this is a strong (2013) 130 min. DVD: who realized a lifelong ambition when he optional purchase. (K. Fennessy) $14.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: performed “All Shook Up” with Springsteen $19.98. DreamWorks Home and the E Street Band. Also featured are Willy DeVille: Live in the Entertainment (avail. from plenty of offstage encounters, including a most distributors). Lowlands HH1/2 jam session with a Copenhagen busker. In (2005) 119 min. Blu- Scoring eight Tony nomi- other clips, fans simply talk about the role ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock nations, including Best Mu- that Springsteen’s music has played in their Entertainment (avail. from sical (and winning for Best Costume Design), lives, such as the trucker who listens to the most distributors). Shrek: The Musical is a rousing, big-hearted acoustic Nebraska during her cross-country Late singer and guitar- belter of a show based on William Steig’s excursions, calling the album “political, but ist Willy DeVille combines jazz and soul in beloved 1990 picture book Shrek! and the poetic at the same time.” One of the more this 21-song set from a 2005 performance subsequent DreamWorks hit film. Directed by amusing testimonials comes from a little girl with his seven-piece band Mink DeVille at Jason Moore, and featuring book and lyrics by who says, “You can see his veins popping out, Amsterdam’s Paradiso Club. The band opens David Lindsay-Abaire, and music by Jeanine because he’s working so hard.” As viewers will with a cover of War’s “Low Rider, “ featuring Tesori, this colorful, beautifully-staged 2009 note during performances of “Thunder Road” Hook Hererra on blues-powered harmonica, production enhances the now-familiar tale and “Born to Run,” she’s right. Extras include after which DeVille takes the stage clad in a with plenty of wink-wink Great White Way additional fan submissions and bonus songs. black-and-white flamenco-inspired ensemble jokes and a fabulous score featuring 17 new Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and decorated with silver and turquoise jewelry. songs. Brian d’Arcy James stars as the titular stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM If his nicotine-stained voice recalls contem- reclusive green ogre whose swamp now stereo on Blu-ray, this is recommended. poraries such as and Tom teems with squatting fairy tale characters (K. Fennessy) Waits, the instrumentation, which includes evicted from their homes in Duloc by the accordion and standup bass—shares more in ruthless diminutive ruler Lord Farquaad UB40: Live at Montreux common with a Tex-Mex outfit like Los Lobos. (Christopher Sieber). Since Farquaad needs a At times, he’s hard to understand—DeVille princess, and Shrek wants his land back, the 2002 HH1/2 tends to segue from words into growls when pair strike a deal: Shrek—accompanied by the (2002) 96 min. Blu-ray: $19.98. he isn’t taking a drag from an ever-present cig- wisecracking Donkey (Daniel Breaker)—must Eagle Rock Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). arette—but his angelic backup singers coun- rescue Princess Fiona (Sutton Foster) from a terbalance his sour with their sweet. DeVille, castle guarded by a dragon in return for his Differing from other Brit- who uses a cane, remains seated the entire swamp. The cast uniformly shines, although ish 2 Tone groups such as the time, but it’s hardly a listless performance; the scene-stealer here is Foster, who win- Specials, outfit UB40 put more he just has his own unique way of working somely combines innocence, heart, beauty, of a pop or soul spin on ska than the more up a sweat. For the most part, he sticks to spunk, and the ability to cut a mean fart. And favored punk (the English Beat borrowed roots-oriented material, with the exception the standout score serves up several hum- from all three camps). In this 2002 Montreux of Bryan Ferry’s “Slave to Love,” a callback mable tunes, including “Big Bright Beautiful Jazz Festival performance, they concentrate to his origins as a player on the fringes of World,” “I Know It’s Today,” “Who I’d Be,” on old favorites and crowd-pleasing rendi- the 1980s new wave and post-punk scene. If “Morning Person,” “I Think I Got You Beat,” tions of Motown and Brill Building numbers. DeVille had chosen to perform solo, his voice and the foot-stomping tolerance anthem The lineup includes brothers Ali and Robin wouldn’t have been up to the task (“Change “Freak Flag,” not to mention an all-cast Campbell (vocals and guitar), Earl Falconer of Heart” here is especially rough), but with closing rendition of the Monkees’ “I’m a (bass), Mickey Virtue (keyboards), James these players his limited range is much less of Believer.” Extras include sing-along songs, Brown (drums), Norman Hassan and Astro a liability and his slide guitar playing shines and a brief “making-of” featurette hosted by (percussion), and a four-man horn section. throughout. Bowing on Blu-ray with DTS-HD Cameron Diaz. A wonderful home video re- As on their bestselling 1983 covers collection 5.1 and LPCM stereo sound options, extras lease that will be much appreciated by those Labour of Love, they add reggae rhythms to include an interview with DeVille. A strong who simply don’t have access to Broadway everything, including The Temptations’ hit optional purchase. (K. Fennessy)

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 81 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Distributor Addresses

Contact information for distribu- Film Movement Outcast Films Weston Woods Studios tors of titles reviewed in this issue 109 West 27th St., Ste. 9B 511 Avenue of the Americas, Ste. 398 90 Old Sherman Tpke. New York, NY 10001 New York, NY 10011 Danbury, CT 06816 are listed below. Some titles must Tel: (866) 937-3456 Tel: (800) 343-5540 Tel: (800) 243-5020 be ordered direct, while others are Web: filmmovement.com Web: outcast-films.com Web: westonwoods.scholastic.com available from a wide variety of Films Media Group Passion River Women Make Movies distributors. 132 West 31st St., 17th Fl. 154 Mt. Bethel Rd. 115 W. 29th St., Ste. 1200 New York, NY 10001 Warren, NJ 07059 New York, NY 10001 Tel: (800) 322-8755 Tel: (732) 440-8100 Tel: (212) 925-0606 Web: films.com Web: passionriver.com Web: wmm.com

Alexander Street Press First Run Features PBS Video Zeitgeist Films 3212 Duke St. 630 Ninth Ave., Ste. 1213 2100 Crystal Dr. 247 Centre St., 2nd Fl. Alexandria, VA 22314 New York, NY 10036 Arlington, VA 22202 New York, NY 10013 Tel: (800) 889-5937 Tel: (800) 229-8575 Tel: (800) 344-3337 Tel: (800) 509-0448 Web: academicvideostore.com Web: firstrunfeatures.com Web: pbs.org Web: zeitgeistfilms.com

Ambrose Video Publishing Green Planet Films Ro*co Films Educational 145 W. 45th St., Ste. 1115 P.O. Box 247 80 Liberty Ship Way, Ste. 8 New York, NY 10036 Corte Madera, CA 94976 Sausalito, CA 94965 Tel: (800) 526-4663 Tel: (415) 377-5471 Tel: (415) 332-6471 Web: ambrosevideo.com Web: greenplanetfilms.org Web: rocoeducational.com

Bennett-Watt HD Productions Human Relations Media Seventh Art Releasing 13021 244th Ave. SE 41 Kensico Dr. 6579 Pickwick St. Issaquah, WA 98027 Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 Los Angeles, CA 90042 Tel: (800) 327-2893 Tel: (800) 431-2050 Tel: (323) 259-8259 Web: bennett-watt.com Web: hrmvideo.com Web: 7thart.com

Bullfrog Films Icarus Films Shelter Island/TDC P.O. Box 149 32 Court St., 21st Fl. 220 E. 23rd St., Ste. 405 Oley, PA 19547 Brooklyn, NY 11201 New York, NY 10010 Tel: (800) 543-3764 Tel: (800) 876-1710 Tel: (917) 402-0460 Web: bullfrogfilms.com Web: icarusfilms.com Web: www.shelterisland.net

California Newsreel Janson Media Third World Newsreel 44 Gough St., Ste. 303 88 Semmens Rd. 545 Eighth Ave., 5th Fl., Ste. 550 San Francisco, CA 94103 Harrington Park, NJ 07640 New York, NY 10018 Tel: (877) 811-7495 Tel: (201) 784-8488 Tel: (212) 947-9277 Web: newsreel.org Web: janson.com Web: twn.org

Checkerboard Film Foundation Kino Lorber Edu TMW Media Group 1 East 53rd St., 14th Fl. 333 W. 39th St., Ste. 503 2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd. New York, NY 10022 New York, NY 10018 Venice, CA 90291 Tel: (212) 759-2056 Tel: (212) 629-6880 Tel: (800) 262-8862 Web: checkerboardfilms.org Web: kinolorberedu.com Web: tmwmedia.com

ChildSense Kultur International Films Transit Media 1970 S. Baker Rd. 195 Hwy. 36 190 Route 17 M, Ste. D Balsam Lake, WI 54810 West Long Branch, NJ 07764 Harriman, NY 10926 Tel: (651) 353-4959 Tel: (800) 573-3782 Tel: (800) 343-5540 Web: childsense.net Web: kultur.com Web: transitmedia.net

The Cinema Guild L.B. Thunderpony Productions Treat Yourself Therapy 115 W. 30th St., Ste. 800 P.O. Box 221 P.O. Box 682005 New York, NY 10001 Woodstock, VT 05091 Park City, UT 84068 Tel: (800) 723-5522 Tel: (802) 457-3465 Tel: (801) 558-6376 Web: cinemaguild.com Web: cartooncollegemovie.com Web: treatyourselftherapy.com

Collective Eye Learning ZoneXpress Two Suns Media 2305 SE Yamhill St. P.O. Box 1022 448 Riverside Dr., #112 Portland, OR 97214 Owatonna, MN 55060 New York, NY 10027 Tel: (503) 232-5345 Tel: (888) 455-7003 Tel: (917) 842-5388 Web: collectiveeye.org Web: learningzonexpress.com Web: twosunsmedia.com

The Disinformation Company/TDC Magic Lantern Films The Video Project 220 E. 23rd St., Ste. 405 P.O. Box 8567 P.O. Box 411376 New York, NY 10010 New York, NY 10116 San Francisco, CA 94141 Tel: (917) 402-0460 Tel: (646) 926-6760 Tel: (800) 475-2638 www.disinfo.com/store Web: magic-lantern-films.com Web: videoproject.com

Dreamscape Media National Film Board of Canada Videos With Values 6940 Hall St. P.O. Box 6100, Centre-Ville Station 4126 Seven Hills Dr. Holland, OH 43528 Montreal, Quebec H3C 3H5 CANADA Florissant, MO 63033 Tel: (877) 983-7326 Tel: (800) 542-2164 Tel: (800) 233-4629 Web: dreamscapeab.com Web: nfb.ca Web: videoswithvalues.org

Entertainment One Naxos of America Vision Video 22 Harbor Park Dr. 1810 Columbia Ave., Ste. 28 P.O. Box 540 Port Washington, NY 11050 Franklin, TN 37064 Worcester, PA 19490 Tel: (516) 484-1000 Tel: (615) 771-9393 Tel: (800) 523-0226 Web: us.eonefilms.com Web: naxos.com Web: visionvideo.com

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 82 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 MUST-HAVE DOCS FROM ZEITGEIST FILMS

OffiCial SElECTiON SEATTLE SLAVOJ ZIZEK iNTERNaTiONal film fESTiVal THE PERVERT’S OffiCial SElECTiON TORONTO GUIDE TO IDEOLOGY iNTERNaTiONal A film by Sophie Fiennes film fESTiVal

“FREQUENTLY ENGAGING, ENTERTAINING AND STIMULATING.” – Smith, “IRRESISTIBLE! Outlaw philosopher Slavoj Žižek... makes a terrifically entertaining host.” –Steve Dollar, The Wall Street Journal

Cultural theorist superstar Slavoj Žižek re- teams with director Sophie fiennes (The Pervert’s Guide to Cinema) for another wildly entertaining romp through the crossroads of cinema and philosophy. With infectious zeal and a voracious appetite for popular culture, Žižek literally goes inside some truly epochal movies to explore and expose how they reinforce prevailing ideologies.

as the ideology that undergirds our cinematic fantasies is revealed, striking associations emerge: What hidden Catholic teachings lurk at the heart of The Sound of Music? What are the fascist political dimensions of Jaws? Taxi Driver, Zabriskie Point, The Searchers, The Dark Knight, ’s They Live (“one of the forgotten masterpieces of the Hollywood left”), Titanic and propaganda epics from Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia all inform Žižek’s stimulating, provocative and often hilarious psychoanalytic-cinematic rant.

ThEATRICALLY RELEASED IN ALL kEY U.S. MARkETS

STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 18, 2014 • DVD SRP $29.99 • CAT NO. Z1159 • UPC 795975115933 AVAILABLE MARCH 25

NOmiNEE - TRUER NOmiNEE WiNNER NOmiNEE WiNNER - bEST EDiTiNG THaN fiCTiON aWaRD bEST DOCUmENTaRy bEST EDiTOR bEST fEaTURE iN a DOCUmENTaRy INDEPENDENT GOThAM IDA IDA TRIBECA SPIRIT aWaRDS aWaRDS aWaRDS aWaRDS film fESTiVal

“ELECTRIFYING! by sticking with historical footage...Osder has made a documentary that’s astonishingly in the present tense.” –David Edelstein, New York Magazine ONE OF ThE TOP FIVE LET THE FIRE BURN DOCUMENTARIES OF 2013! a film by JaSON OSDER –a.O. Scott, The New York Times

On may 13, 1985, a longtime feud between the city of and controversial radical urban group mOVE came to a deadly climax. by order of local authorities, police dropped military-grade explosives onto a mOVE-occupied rowhouse. TV cameras captured the conflagration that quickly escalated—and resulted in the tragic deaths of eleven people and the destruction of 61 homes. Using only archival news coverage and interviews, first-time filmmaker Osder has brought to life one of the most tumultuous and largely forgotten clashes between government and citizens in modern american history.

DVD SRP $29.99 • CAT NO. Z1160 • UPC 795975116039

To order call 212-274-1989 or contact your distributor www.zeitgeistfilms.com Title Index 2 Broke Girls: Complete Second Season ...... 41 Dare to Cook: Barbecue & Grilling ...... 65 Morrissey: 25Live ...... 79 A.C.O.D...... 18 David Copperfield ...... 36 Mortal Instruments: City of Bones ...... 26 Aaa!!! Real Monsters: The Complete Series ...... 51 Deep Purple: Perfect Strangers Live ...... 77 Mothers of Bedford ...... 59 Aerial America: New England Collection ...... 72 Defiance: Season One ...... 42 Mr. Angel ...... 26 Affinity ...... 18 Degrassi: Season Twelve ...... 42 Mulan: Rise of a Warrior ...... 26 Age of Champions ...... 66 Devil We Know, The ...... 55 Museum Hours ...... 26 Ain’t Them Bodies Saints ...... 18 Dexter: Final Season ...... 42 Music & Monarchy ...... 68 AKB0048: Season One ...... 75 Dionysos ...... 77 Musicwood ...... 60 All Is Bright ...... 18 Dirty Wars ...... 22 Muybridge’s Strings ...... 68 American Horror Story—Asylum: Complete Second Discoveries…America National Parks: Arches, Canyonlands Nashville: Complete First Season ...... 47 Season ...... 41 & Natural Bridges ...... 72 New Girl: Complete Second Season ...... 47 Angels’ Share, The ...... 18 Don Giovanni ...... 77 Noise of Cairo: Arts After the Arab Spring ...... 68 Animals ...... 20 Dream Theater: Live at Luna Park ...... 77 North America ...... 62 Ant and the Grasshopper, The ...... 51 Drug War ...... 22 Oil City Confidential ...... 79 Applause ...... 20 East End Babylon: The Story of the Cockney Rejects ...... 77 Oka! ...... 27 Arrow: Complete First Season ...... 41 El Huaso: The Last Rodeo ...... 54 Old Goats ...... 27 Ashton Celebration: The Royal Ballet Dances Frederick Enough Said ...... 22 On the Riviera ...... 38 Ashton ...... 76 Eric Fischl: The Process of Painting ...... 67 One Direction: This is Us ...... 80 Attack, The ...... 20 Eyes Without a Face ...... 36 Only God Forgives ...... 27 Autumn Sonata ...... 34 Fall to Grace ...... 57 Othello ...... 38 Awkward: Seasons 1 & 2 ...... 41 Falls: Testament of Love ...... 22 Other Town, The ...... 60 Barbara ...... 20 Family, The ...... 24 Pablo ...... 27 Barbie & Her Sisters in A Pony Tale ...... 51 Family Tree: Complete First Season ...... 44 Pandora’s Promise ...... 60 Beauty & the Beast: First Season ...... 41 Far Out Isn’t Far Enough ...... 73 Paradise: Hope ...... 27 Best of (The Original) An Evening at the Improv ...... 68 Fly, The ...... 36 Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters ...... 27 Best Years of Our Lives, The ...... 34 Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, The ...... 78 Perfect American, The ...... 80 Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures: Volume 1 ...... 51 Genius of Marian, The ...... 63 Phil Spector ...... 28 Big Combo, The ...... 34 Glee: Complete Fourth Season ...... 44 Photo ...... 70 Big Parade, The ...... 36 Global Food Equity ...... 57 Physical Geography: Making Sense of Planet Earth ...... 62 Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me ...... 20 Golden Slumbers ...... 68 Portnoy Sheehan MacAlpine Sherinian: Live in Tokyo .... 80 Big Sur ...... 20 Good Ol’ Freda ...... 24 Portrait of Wally ...... 69 Bill Cosby: Far From Finished ...... 66 Gravity Falls: Six Strange Tales ...... 52 Power Rangers Zeo, Volume One ...... 54 Billy Rose’s Jumbo ...... 36 Great Hip Hop Hoax, The ...... 78 Prince Avalanche ...... 28 Bittersweet Joke ...... 56 Greedy Lying Bastards ...... 57 R.I.P.D...... 28 Black Label Society: Unblackened ...... 76 Guess How Much I Love You: Hidden Treasure ...... 52 Resonance: Beings of Frequency ...... 62 Blackout ...... 51 Hart of Dixie: Complete Second Season ...... 44 Rising From Ashes ...... 66 Blue Jasmine ...... 21 Heart of Sky, Heart of Earth ...... 58 Rodney Yee: Yoga for Your Week ...... 64 Bob and the Monster ...... 73 Heaven in Sight ...... 56 Rolling Stones: Sweet Summer Sun—Hyde Park Live ...... 80 Bone Wind Fire (Désert Vent Feu) ...... 66 Here One Day ...... 55 Romeo and Juliet in Yiddish ...... 28 Bones: Complete Eighth Season ...... 42 Here’s Edie: Edie Adams Television Collection ...... 44 Runner Runner ...... 30 Breaking Bad: Final Season ...... 42 High Plains Drifter ...... 37 Saving General Yang ...... 30 Brewed in Brooklyn ...... 66 Hill, The ...... 58 Schooled: The Price of College Sports ...... 30 Bringing Joshua Home ...... 64 Hitch-Hiker, The ...... 37 Schools That Change Communities ...... 61 Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story ...... 56 Hollow Crown: Complete Series ...... 44 Secret of Crickley Hall, The ...... 47 Building Babel ...... 56 Homegoings ...... 58 Sesame Street: Being Brave ...... 54 Bye ...... 76 Homeland: Complete Second Season ...... 45 Sesame Street: Fairy Tale Fun! ...... 54 Campione! Complete Collection ...... 75 How I Became an Elephant ...... 62 Shack Out on 101 ...... 40 Captain Phillips ...... 21 Hugh Laurie: Live on the Queen Mary ...... 78 Shane ...... 40 Caro Emerald in Concert ...... 76 I Married a Witch ...... 37 She’s Got It ...... 30 Carrie ...... 21 I Used to Be Darker ...... 24 Short Term 12 ...... 30 Cart That Carried Martin, The ...... 52 I Want My Hat Back ...... 52 Shrek: The Musical ...... 81 Cartoon College ...... 67 In a Town This Size ...... 61 Sinbad: Complete First Season ...... 47 CeeLo Green is Loberace: Live in Vegas ...... 76 In a World… ...... 24 Single Shot, A ...... 30 Children of Srikandi ...... 64 In Search of Blind Joe Death ...... 73 Sleepless Epidemic ...... 60 Clear History ...... 21 In the Flesh ...... 45 Smarter Brains ...... 62 Closed Circuit ...... 21 Informant ...... 24 Smash & Grab: Story of the Pink Panthers ...... 32 Contradictions of Fair Hope, The ...... 70 Insidious: Chapter 2 ...... 24 South Park: Complete Sixteenth Season ...... 47 Curse of Chucky ...... 22 Intolerance ...... 37 Spartacus: War of the Damned ...... 48 Ip Man: The Final Fight ...... 25 Speak the Music: Robert Mann ...... 69 It’s a Girl ...... 58 Springsteen & I ...... 81 Jack Irish, Set 1 ...... 45 Strongman ...... 74 Advertiser Directory James Dean: Ultimate Collector’s Edition ...... 37 Stuck in Love ...... 32 James Morrison: The Wizard from Oz ...... 78 Superheroes: A Never-Ending Battle ...... 69 Action! Library Media Service ...... 50 JFK ...... 74 Sweetwater ...... 32 Alexander Street Press ...... 13 JFK: 50 Years, A Commemorative Collection ...... 71 Tabu ...... 32 Baker & Taylor Entertainment ...... 2 Jump ...... 25 Thank God for Football! ...... 55 BayView Entertainment ...... 63 Kennedy Half-Century, The ...... 71 Thérèse ...... 32 Bennett-Watt HD Productions ...... 73 Kokoro Connect: Complete TV Series ...... 75 Those Darn Squirrels ...... 54 Breaking Glass Pictures ...... 39 La Cage aux Folles ...... 38 Through Lent & Easter Sunday with the Gospels of Centex Enterprises ...... 65 La Fanciulla del West ...... 78 Matthew and John ...... 56 Last Exile: Fam, The Silver Wing ...... 75 To Do List, The ...... 33 Choices, Inc...... 61 Last Tango in Halifax ...... 45 Tracie Long—Focus Series: Kickback ...... 63 Dark Hollow Films ...... 57 Last Will. & Testament ...... 69 Trash Dance ...... 70 Dreamscape ...... 53 Lee Daniels’ The Butler ...... 25 Treat Yourself Therapy: Thumb CMC Arthritis ...... 64 Entertainment One ...... 9, 11 Leslie Sansone—Just Walk: Walk it Off in 30 Days ...... 63 Turtle Hill, Brooklyn ...... 33 Film Movement ...... 31 Letter to Three Wives, A ...... 38 TuTuMuch ...... 70 Films Media Group ...... 67 Leverage: The Final Season ...... 45 Two American Families ...... 60 First Run Features ...... 19 Life and Death in Assisted Living ...... 58 UB40: Live at Montreux 2002 ...... 81 Janson Media ...... 7 Lion of the Desert ...... 38 Under the Dome ...... 48 Kino Lorber Education ...... 23 Lost and Found ...... 54 Undressing Israel: Gay Men in the Promised Land ...... 64 Kultur International Films ...... 15 Lucky Express: India’s Forgotten Train Kids ...... 59 Unhung Hero ...... 33 Learning ZoneXpress ...... 52 Lucrezia Borgia ...... 78 Unsung Hero: The Story of the Horse in the Civil War .... 72 Library Video Network/LVN ...... 8 Lulu ...... 79 Untold History of the United States ...... 72 Magic Lantern ...... 59 Machine Which Makes Everything Disappear ...... 59 Vampire Diaries: Complete Fourth Season ...... 48 Master Communications, Inc...... 6 Mad Men: Season 6 ...... 46 Vegas: The DVD Edition ...... 48 Midwest Tape ...... 88 Mama Doni’s Jewish Holiday Party ...... 52 Violet & Daisy ...... 33 Music Box Films ...... 43 Mama’s Family: Complete Collection ...... 46 Vitality ...... 64 Oscilloscope Pictures ...... 29 Manhunt ...... 71 Vivien Leigh Anniversary Collection ...... 40 Passion River Films ...... 55, 87 March, The ...... 71 Voices from Mariel: Los Marielitos, Then and Now ...... 72 Margarita ...... 25 Welcome to the Machine ...... 70 PBS Video ...... 85 Mary and Martha ...... 25 Wild Style: 30th Anniversary Edition ...... 40 Shelter Island/TDC ...... 4, 5 Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman: Complete Series ...... 46 Wild Things with Dominic Monaghan ...... 63 Strand Releasing ...... 35 Matt’s Chance ...... 26 Willy DeVille: Live in the Lowlands ...... 81 Third World Newsreel ...... 73 Michiko & Hatchin, Part One ...... 75 With Love… From the Age of Reason ...... 33 TM Books & Video ...... 86 Middle: Season 3 ...... 46 Year in Burgundy, A ...... 65 Vision Video ...... 17 Moby-Dick ...... 79 You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet ...... 33 West City Films, Inc...... 52 Molly’s Theory of Relativity ...... 26 You Are in Charge of Your Body ...... 55 Zeitgeist Films ...... 83 More Than Honey ...... 3 You’re Next ...... 34 More Time to Teach: Building Community ...... 61 Zaytoun ...... 34

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 84 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 New and Notable

Explore with Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr., the evolution of the African-American people, as well as the multiplicity of cultural institutions, political strategies, and religious and social perspectives they developed—forging their own history, culture and society against unimaginable odds. 360 minutes on 2 Discs DVD $34.99 ISBN# 9781608839971

Masterpiece: NOVA: Making Stuff 2 Lincoln@Gettysburg Downton Abbey Go with David Pogue on a In 1863, Abraham Lincoln Season 4 fantastic journey through the proved himself a master The sweeping Downton revolutionary technologies of a new frontier--not on Abbey saga continues with that are making our lives the battlefields of the Civil a fourth season of drama, better by working Faster, War, but in his “high-tech” romance, and family intrigue. Safer, Colder, and Wilder. command center, the War Dame Maggie Smith stars as From quantum computers Department Telegraph Violet, the stubborn Dowager to maglev trains, and from Office. The telegraph was Countess of Grantham, matriarch of Downton. increasing the speed of a stock transaction to the “Internet” of the nineteenth century, Hugh Bonneville stars as her son, the stoic Lord decreasing the risk posed by an earthquake, and it gave Lincoln powers of command, Crawley; Elizabeth McGovern is his American emerging technologies are changing our communications, and control never before wife, Cora, and Michelle Dockery is their world. exercised by a commander-in-chief. He used daughter Lady Mary. From Academy Award®- 240 minutes on 2 Discs this new technology to connect the country to winner Julian Fellowes. DVD $29.99 him--receiving nearly live dispatches from his ISBN# 9781608839803 generals in the field and sending out his plans 525 minutes on 3 Discs for the nation faster than ever before. DVD $49.99 ISBN# 9781608839674 American Masters: 60 min. Marvin Hamlisch: DVD $24.99 Ready to Raw What He Did For Love ISBN# 9781608830299 Explore the science, Remember composer, Chasing Shackleton innovation, and sheer genius conductor and PEGOT winner it takes to transform the most Marvin Hamlisch. With new Can six men endure Sir basic ingredients into the interviews with family, Barbra Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic world’s most awe-inspiring Streisand, Steven Soderbergh, rescue mission today? Using machines. Raw to Ready Quincy Jones, Christopher a replica boat, and the same goes deep inside factories to Walken, Sir Tim Rice, Joe Torre, Woody Allen, equipment and clothing as uncover the hard work and John Lithgow, Lucie Arnaz, Ann-Margret, would have been used in craftsmanship it takes to build these incredible and others, AMERICAN MASTERS reveals the 1914, explorer Tim Jarvis and machines and reveals the hidden stories of events that led to both his staggering success his crew attempt to follow human ingenuity that have transformed the and, ultimately, his even greater humanity: his in Shackleton’s wake, going beyond the point earth’s most essential raw materials into creative process, struggles, inner turmoil and of no return, using their firsthand experience monumental marvels of modern technology. breakthroughs. measured against historical accounts to unlock the secrets of Shackleton’s survival. 240 minutes on 2 Discs 84 min. DVD $29.99 DVD $24.99 180 min. DVD $24.99 ISBN# 9781608830190 ISBN# 9781608830329 ISBN# 9781608830350 © 2014 PBS

To purchase these and other award winning DVDs, visit shopPBS.org/teachershop or other authorized distributor sites. Thank you! Your purchase supports PBS. Final Frame

documentaries are often built around stories ity in order to perform in that need to be told—whether of interesting staged shows for audiences. Mo’ Better Docs people or pressing social issues. Although I am a big football Another year (the ninth, actually), another Folks I won’t forget anytime soon include fan (go Seahawks!), I’m wor- “Best Docs” list. With the latest set of 25 the decidedly quasi-social former Cream ried about the long-term winners (see pg. 49), the total now tops 200 drummer Ginger Baker, who takes a cane to negative health effects of playing contact (all appear in annotated annual lists online filmmaker Jay Bulger’s schnoz in the opening sports after seeing Steve James’ persuasive in the “Resources” section of Video Librarian scene of the aptly-titled Beware of Mr. Baker. documentary about concussions, Head Plus!, www.videolibrarian.com). Or David Ritz, the tattooed earring-wearing Games. And I am both amazed and angered Once again Video Librarian staff hunkered ghostwriter for straight-arrow Ralph Branca— by the underlying racism towards blacks, down between June and October, watching the former Brooklyn Dodgers’ pitcher who Latinos, and poor whites that lies behind the close to 200 documentaries in order to cre- threw the game-losing pitch known as the failed “War on Drugs,” an argument force- ate the list. “shot heard round the world”—in director fully made by filmmaker Eugene Jarecki in I can think of worse jobs. Andrew J. Muscato’s Branca’s Pitch. Or Ian The House I Live In. Past “Best Documentaries” lists have been Cauble, Dustin Wilson, DLynn Proctor, and Entertaining, enlightening, endearing, a mix of higher-profile films (including The Brian McClintic—four wine buddies who enraging—these are just some of the feelings Cove, Grizzly Man, , Inside tirelessly work the flashcards and endlessly I associate with watching documentaries, the Job, The Invisible War, Jesus Camp, Man on sip-and-spit into their cups during their quest best of which enrich our lives personally and Wire, March of the Penguins, Murderball, No End to become Master Sommeliers in filmmaker sometimes even change the world. in Sight, Project Nim, Sicko, Taxi to the Dark Side, Jason Wise’s Somm. Or Ethel Kennedy, a I’m already excited about seeing several Waiting for Superman, , Word- woman who has seen more than her fair share of the documentaries reviewed in this issue, play, and Young @ Heart) and lesser-known of tragedy, yet remains a familial and social including our featured cover title on bee titles (such as 51 Birch Street, Beethoven’s Hair, force of nature, as lovingly depicted in her colony collapse disorder, More Than Honey; Big Enough, The City Dark, Dear Zachary, Family daughter Rory Kennedy’s moving Ethel. the pro-nuke Pandora’s Promise; the art history Affair, Four Seasons Lodge, Hacking Democracy, There are also things I will look at differ- doc Portrait of Wally; the garbage collection The Hobart Shakespeareans, The Learning, A Life ently now. And that list starts with SeaWorld, performance piece Trash Dance; and the Without Pain, Lucky, Monster Camp, No Impact thanks to filmmaker Gabriela Cowper- biographical profile Strongman. Man, Nursery University, Sister Helen, So Much So thwaite’s disturbing Blackfish, an investigative Speaking of “strong,” I’d best go gird my Fast, Sunset Story, and Yellow Brick Road). report on the dangers and questionable ethics loins for the next round of 200 docs. This year’s list reminds me that the best of keeping orcas (or killer whales) in captiv- Randy Pitman

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VIDEO LIBRARIAN 86 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014