DVD Releases For Week of 6/04/2013
Well, lots of titles this week, and the good news, there are several direct to DVD releases that more than make up for the horrid theater releases. That shows you just how much the studios cater to the masses that constantly crave for mindless explosions and ignore solid content.
'Identity Thief' - If not for the hilarious Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy, 'Identity Thief' would have been a total waste of time. As it is, the funniest moments are in the trailer. Despite outstanding efforts from the two stars, the mind numbing plot and awful direction simply overshadow Bateman and McCarthy. Here's hoping they team up again with a different writer and director. Their talent was simply wasted here, as if your $1.50 for the rental.
'A Good Day To Die Hard' - The weakest of the 'Die Hard' entries is not even saved by the always fun to watch Bruce Willis. With an uninspired, confusing story and very by the book direction, 'A Good Day To Die Hard' is certainly not the way to end the franchise and I hope they give it at least one more shot. For now, we are going to have to wait for RED II to see the Bruce we know and love (can you tell I can't wait for RED II?).
'Warm Bodies' - With the zombie craze in high gear, it is refreshing to see a movie that takes the genre and turns it on it's rotting ear, so to speak! As a very charming love story, 'Warm Bodies' does more in 97 minutes than 'Twilight' was able to do over the course of 6 (or was it 7) films! And that is take a classic horror genre piece and turn it around just a little bit. Director Jonathan Levine ('50/50') brings his indie sensibilities and his knack for subtle humor to a genre that may soon be running out of gas (but maybe not, as long as 'The Walking Dead' can keep up the excellent story writing) with expert craftsmanship and terrific acting. 'Warm Bodies' is a must see!
'Escape From Planet Earth' - 3D Aliens couldn't be any lamer. Most kids would be insulted by the far too simple plot and light weight (if any weight) humor. Need to torture the kiddies for 90 minutes? Turn on this mind numbing excuse for a family film. The only place I wanted to escape from was the theater during this film!
'It's A Disaster' - I love Julia Stiles and she has never been better than in 'It's A Disaster' - a very clever dark comedy that centers around a group of couples who meet monthly for a brunch when a regular monthly meeting turns bizarre as the city is attack throwing them into a pressure filled situation. Trapped in the house, unsure if they will make it through the night, the situation becomes a very impromptu therapy session with hilarious results. Totally unique and often very touching, this is a direct to video must see.