DVD Releases for Week of 1/15/2013

Just a handful of DVDs this week; not really that much to write about them as they are something of a sorry crop - but I will do my best!

'Taken 2' - Liam Neeson is back as ex-CIA operative Bryan Mills who's particular skill set, in this case, is making a terrible movie. Sloppy, lazy, tired and worn; Neeson should have said no to this sequel. Made my list of Worst Movies of 2012 and for very good reason! I still can't believe they actually wrote in the script to have the daughter lob grenades off of the rooftop to lead her father to her. Geez.

'The Possession' - Allegedly based on a true story, this piece of junk is full of old ghost story clichés and is neither suspenseful or scary; it does prove my point that you cannot make a PG-13 horror movie. Although this does provide a few unintentional laughs and may be worth a free rental code from Redbox!

'Won't Back Down' - Even the talents of Maggie Gyllenhaal and Viola Davis can't save this standard 'us against the man' story. While the issue of quality, accessible public education is an important topic, 'Won't Back Down' fails to raise enough interest to make a compelling case. I found myself lectured to and not at all motivated by the cardboard characters and lack of drama.

'To Rome With Love' - Woody Allen's latest romantic fantasy certainly presents Rome in a very romantic fashion; however the story is not really up to the Woody Allen we have come to know and expect. Filled with talent actors and actresses, 'To Rome With Love' was generally flat and not as nearly pleasing as last year's wonderful 'Midnight in Paris'.