DVD Releases for January 27, 2009
RocknRolla
Rated R for pervasive language, violence, drug use and brief sexuality
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
It seems like Guy Ritchie has been away for a long time (thanks a lot Madonna for releasing him), and he is finally back and just as edgy as ever. RocknRolla is yet another twisty, funny British underground thriller with an amazing cast including Gerard Butler and Tom Wilkinson. The biggest advantage to this version over the theatrical is that you can switch on the subtitles – a huge help in understanding what is actually going on. Guy Ritchie films have done nothing to convince me that they speak the same language across the pond. A-
Fireproof
Rated PG for thematic material and some peril
Available on DVD
This little Christian film cost about a half million to make and pulled in 33.5 million at the box office. That makes it one of the most successful films of the year by anyone’s estimate. Although this pic about a fireman (Kirk Cameron) and his wife whose marriage has hit the rocks is poorly written and sloppily directed, the message is strong and the audience is apparently pleased. Not for everyone, but many believe in it’s power. C
Mary Poppins: 45th Anniversary Special Edition
Rated G
Available on DVD
The magical nanny is back for another special edition. The movie could look better with a more rigorous restoration, but it’s still a good representation of the ground breaking Disney flick. The best reason to buy this new edition is that the second disc focuses on the new Broadway production and features a look at the very impressive new version of the chimney sweep song Step in Time. B+
Pride and Glory
Rated R for strong violence, pervasive language and brief drug content
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
Edward Norton and Colin Ferrel prove that they can sometimes make questionable career choices in this mediocre cop thriller about cops gone bad and family that protects them. Everything about this film, including the acting, writing, directing, pacing and even the special features on the dvd, are just plain blah. D+
The Rocker
Rated PG-13 for drug and sexual references, nudity and language
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
The Office’s Rainn Wilson is an ex-heavy metal drummer that is dumped by his band for being a bit too intense. When images of him drumming naked cause him and his new band to become Youtube sensations, he gets his chance at revenge against his old bandmates. Wilson definitely proves that he has potential to be a good Will Ferrell-like leading man, but he needs better material to work with. He is hysterically funny, but the story is lame and so is the acting by the most of the rest of the cast. C+