DVD Releases for February 3, 2009
Zack and Miri Make a Porno
Rated R for strong crude sexual content including dialogue, graphic nudity and pervasive language
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
Writer/director Kevin Smith’s latest opus stars Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks as roommates that decide to produce a porno in order to pay their rent. While completely silly and over-the-top (just like the rest of Smith’s work), it still remains crudely funny and provides for the best sight gag of 2009. Just don’t watch it over dinner or you may lose yours. Fair warning. B-
Rent: The Final Performance Filmed Live on Broadway
Not Rated
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
Thirteen years ago I spent the night outside during an ice storm just so that I could score front row center tickets for the Broadway phenomenon called Rent. While my extremities were upset with me, it turned out to be one of my most cherished memories. I went back another 6 times over the next decade to see the show again. So I am sad to say that the show can’t go on forever, and in 2008 the final performance was given. Luckily for us it was recorded and now on DVD and Blu-ray with tons of special features about the ground-breaking show. This release and the not the Rent movie is the definitive version of the show and the best way to relive history. A
Oliver and Company
Rated G
Available on DVD
In 1989, one year before they changed their tune with The Little Mermaid, Disney Animation released this pop musical based on Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens. The biggest problem with this film is that it is clearly dated. To make matters worse, the music is reprehensible and the animation is truly ugly. The only saving grace on this DVD is the Oscar winning Pluto short “Lend a Paw” located in the special features section. D+
Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist
Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material including teen drinking, sexuality, and crude behavior
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
Michael Cera and Kat Dennings roam the streets of New York City trying to catch their favorite band playing, while their friends keep getting into and causing trouble. This might make it into cult classic status some day, but I just didn’t get it. There is not a plot to be found and much of the film seems loosely put together. I found the actor’s commentary on the disc to be much more entertaining than the film itself. C
Friday the 13th Uncut
Rated R
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
Just in time for Friday, February 13th, and in preparation for the new Michael Bay Friday the 13th movie, comes the original 1980 classic slasher pic about camp counselors getting offed by a serial killer. Blu-ray gives it a fresh look that has been missed until now, but the glorious cheesiness is still there in full force. Also being released are the next two in the series including Friday the 13th 3D with glasses included. C-