With the U.S.A. mired in the Vietnam War, Gene Ryack (Mel Gibson) is a renegade pilot hired by the
CIA to risk his life, airlifting supplies under-cover to indigenous forces battling the communists.
Gene is sticking around just long enough to complete a personal gunrunning deal that will let him
retire in comfort. However his plans go astray when he is thrown together with new recruit Billy
Covington (Robert Downey Jr), young, rebellious and whose maverick flying has just lost him his
job. Gene and Billy find themselves in an international conspiracy where their lives, and hundreds of
others, depend upon their triumph in this covert war.
Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the extras are a trailer, teaser trailer,
'Making Of' and a photo gallery.
Cutthroat Island (£9.99, Momentum)
Not Geena Davis' finest hour, but this pirate adventure directed by
her then-husband Renny Harlin, also starring Matthew Modine,
with Geena as Morgan, whose father is killed by Dawg (Frank Langella)
and after she takes over the captaincy of her ship, she shows off her father's
scalp which contains a piece of the treasure map to the island in the title.
Presented in anamorphic 2.35:1 widescreen and Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, the
extras consist of a trailer, a making-of, interviews, featurette, storyboards
and director's commentary.
Although there's a 15-cert on the cover, the BBFC's site still lists
the PG-rated censored version from 1996 so I cannot confirm if they've
restored the four seconds cut from the film and would a company go to the
trouble of re-rating the film just for a budget release?
L.A. Story (£9.99, Momentum)
Steve Martin is Harris Telemacher, a wacky television weatherman, who thinks his life is perfect,
except for an erratic relationship with a style-conscious girlfriend (Marilu Henner). Then, one bright
and smoggy L.A. day, an electronic freeway sign changes his life, when its advice leads him into a
frivolous romance with a young and beautiful blonde (Sarah Jessica Parker) and, ultimately, to true
love with the woman of his dreams (Victoria Tennant). Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, it's
the most hilariously romantic L.A. story you'll ever experience...
Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, the extras are a trailer, teaser trailer,
featurettes for a 'Making Of' and a 'Behind the Scenes', interviews and a photo gallery.
Lock Up (£9.99, Momentum)
In the middle of the night only six months before he is to be released, Leone (Sylvester Stallone), a
model prisoner, is dragged from his bed in a minimum-security prison and transferred to Gateway,
a maximum-security hellhole run by Warden Drumgoole (Donald Sutherland). The warden has
pulled every string he can to have Leone placed under his control, which is where he aims to keep
him for the rest of his entire life. Previously, Leone had been one of Drumgoole's "charges" at
another facility until he escaped to be at his father's deathbed.
Drumgoole's harshness, which forced Leone to break out two weeks before release, prompted a
newspaper report that accused the warden of brutality. Leone was sentenced to additional time,
while Drumgoole was publicly humiliated and transferred to Gateway, the worst facility in the prison
system. Now it's time for Drumgoole to get even. His plan is to physically and psychologically
intimidate Leone until he lashes out. When he does, Drumgoole will extend his prison sentence in
"hell"... or kill him.
Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, the extras are a trailer, featurettes for a 'Making Of'
and a 'Behind the Scenes', Stallone profile, Cast and Crew interviews and a photo gallery.
Jack Terri (John Travolta) is a talented audio technician who makes a living by recording unique sounds
for horror movies. But when he accidentally tapes an automobile crash that kills a presidential
candidate and injures his young mistress, Sally (Nancy Allen), Jack is hurled into a mystery far more
terrifying than any of his films. Soon he and Sally must fight to stay alive as they uncover an explosive
political conspiracy that will send shockwaves to the highest levels of government.
Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Dressed To Kill (£12.99, MGM)
Fashionable Manhattan therapist Dr. Robert Elliott (Michael Caine) faces the most terrifying moment of his
life, when a psychotic killer begins attacking the women in his life (Angie Dickinson and Nancy Allen) with a
straight razor stolen from his office. Desperate to find the murderer before anyone else is hurt, Elliott
is soon drawn into a dark and disturbing world of chilling desires. And as the doctor edges closer to
the terrible truth, he finds himself lost in a provocative and deadly maze of obsession, deviance and
deceit - where the most harmless erotic fantasies can become the most deadly sexual nightmares.
Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
The Russia House (£12.99, MGM)
Adapted by Tom Stoppard from John Le Carre's novel, director Fred Schepisi's The Russia House
stars Sean Connery and Michelle Pfeiffer as two people caught in a web of spies and politics,
whose love could prove fatal to them both.
When Katya (Pfeiffer), a beautiful Russian book editor, attempts to send British publisher Barley
Blair (Connery) a manuscript written by a noted Soviet scientist, she unwittingly draws them both into
a world of international espionage. The manuscript, which contains information that could alter the
balance of world power, is intercepted by the West's spy-masters who then send Blair to Russia to
gain more information on the mysterious document. But when Blair meets Katya, he finds himself
torn between his mission and the woman whose passion for her country - and for Blair - knows no
bounds.
Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
The Taking of Pelham 123 (£12.99, MGM)
Somewhere underground in New York's subway system, just outside the Pelham station, a gang of
armed men hijack a train, threatening to kill one hostage per minute unless their demands are met.
Forced to stall these unknown assailants until a ransom is delivered or a rescue is made, transit
chief Lt. Cooper (Walter Matthau) must ad-lib, bully, con and shrewdly outmanoeuvre one of the craftiest
and cruellest villains (Robert Shaw) in a battle of wits that will either end heroically or tragically. From the
minute you board this train until its exhilarating climax, you'll be taken by plenty of surprises and lots
of nail-biting action.
Presented in 2.35:1 non-anamorphic widescreen, it's an excellent film, but the only extra it gets
is a trailer.
The Usual Suspects: Special Edition (£22.99, MGM)
In 1998, Polygram treated us to a piss-poor release of this classic thriller
with barely any extras and just a fullscreen picture. Now, four years on and
MGM have restored the balance with an anamorphic 2.35:1 widescreen transfer
and extras galore.
Five criminals brought together in a framed line-up. 27 bodies in Long Beach Harbour. One dying, terrified
witness. One cop hell-bent on unravelling the truth. Their one connection.... Keyser Soze. The film won two
Academy Awards including Best original Screenplay.
Held in an L.A. interrogation room, Verbal Kint (Kevin Spacey) attempts to convince the Feds that a mythic crime
lord, Keyser Soze, not only exists, but was also responsible for drawing him and his four partners into a
multi-million dollar heist that ended with an explosion in San Pedro Harbour leaving few survivors. Through
offering up his explanation of the events, Kint lures his interrogators into the incredible story of a crime that has
an almost supernatural prowess...
The DVD extras consist of:
'Heisting Cannes With The Usual Suspects' featurette. 'Introducing The Usual Suspects' original featurette. US
theatrical TV spots. Bryan Singer's gag reel. Deleted scenes - hosted by editor John Ottman. 'Taking Out The
Usual Suspects' - interviews and outtakes: interview with John Ottman, interview outtakes, Bryan Singer
introduces Kevin Spacey and friends. 'Round Up: Deposing The Usual Suspects', Pursuing The Usual Suspects,
Doing Time With The Usual Suspects. 'Keyser Soze: Lie Or Legend' featurette. Audio commentary with John
Ottman. Audio commentary with Bryan Singer and Christopher McQuarrie. International trailer. US trailer with
introduction by John Ottman.
Elmo McElroy (Samuel L Jackson), an American master chemist makes plans to do a twenty
million dollar drug deal with the designer drug of the century, POS 51. Unfortunately for
him things don't go exactly to plan and with all his enemies in pursuit, he's thrown into an
unlikely partnership with local hood Felix De Souza (Robert Carlyle).
The DVD is only available to rent from April 15th, at first. The version you rent should be
in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen and with contain trailers, English subtitles and 'hidden
extras', but the one that turned up here is one of the first DVDs I've seen that is timecoded, which is
bloody annoying because it's even worse than seeing "BBC Choice" or "E4 Movie"
stuck on the screen when I'm trying to watch a film. It also has zero extras and the picture
is in a very poor 16:9 non-anamorphic widescreen. What the hell are they playing at?
In Bed with Madonna (£15.99, MGM)
This stunningly shot documentary, partly in black and white, focuses on Madonna's Blonde Ambition
tour. The glittering stage show is shown in brilliant colour to highlight the amazing set and
awe-inspiring and iconic Gaultier-designed costumes. The stage is the place where we see
Madonna at her best with a selection of classic tracks including 'Like A Virgin', 'Papa Don't Preach',
'Promise To Try', 'Vogue' and 'Like A Prayer'. But the real fun comes from the exchanges between
Madonna and her dancers, friends and various family members. From the hotel room to
centre-stage, every line and situation is documented including Madonna's legendary put downs and
diva tantrums.
Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Stargate SG1 Vol 20: Series 5 Episodes 1-4 (£19.99, MGM)
The first four episodes of series 5, all in anamorphic 16:9 widescreen:
Enemies: After losing Teal'c to Apophis, SG-1 and Jacob prepare to battle against their foe on board Cronus's
ship. A mysterious ship appears which allows them to escape only slightly damaged. A later encounter with the
enemy ship shows no signs of life on board, save for an army of replicator bugs and an auto destruct
programme...
Threshold: Teal'c has been saved from death on Apophis's ship, but mentally remains loyal to his old master.
Bra'tac suggests an ancient Jaffa ritual called M'al Sharran - a process which could bring Teal'c back from the
abyss, but could also kill him.
Ascension: While investigating an alien device Carter is found unconscious. Resting from suspected exhaution,
she is visited by an invisible being who holds vital secrets to the device and more. But how does she convince
SG-1 that she is not delusional?
The Fifth Man: O'Neill stays behind on an alien world to tend the wounded Lt. Tyler, the latest member of SG-1.
Back on Earth Hammond informs the team that Tyler doesn't exist! Col. Simmons of the Pentagon wants to use
this latest case of alien mind games to close down the SGC as a safety risk.
Extras:
SG-1 video diary - Don S. Davis. Voulme 21 episode previews. Enemies - audio commentary by director Martin
Wood and visual effects supervisor James Tichenor. Threshold - audio commentary by director Peter DeLuise,
Christopher Judge and visual effects supervisor James Tichenor. Ascension - audio commentary by director
Martin Wood, Amanda Tapping and visual effects supervisor James Tichenor. The Fifth Man - audio commentary
by director Peter DeLuise and producers Jospeh Mallozzi and Paul Mullie. Fan club spot.
Swimming with Sharks (£15.99, Second Sight)
Fresh out of film school, this is Guy's (Frank Whaley) welcome to the real world of Hollywood,
courtesy of his new boss, notorious studio vice president Buddy Ackerman (Kevin Spacey). And this
is just the beginning. From the hurling of insults ("My bath mat means more to me then you") to the
hurling of paper weights, Guy suffers constant humiliation, but begins to learn the ropes ("If they
can't start a meeting without you, that's the only kind of meeting worth going to"). Just when things
are starting to look up, and he feels he has finally earned some respect, he is delivered a shattering
blow. Now it's payback time.
The film is presented in 1.85:1 non-anamorphic widescreen and stereo sound, like the Region 1
DVD, although someone listed a German DVD as being both anamorphic and having a Dolby Digital
Surround 6.1 EX soundtrack. I doubt that somehow. The extras are a trailer, Kevin Spacey
profile and director's commentary. It's also region-free.
An inventive and engaging film which tells the story of Amélie Poulain, a young
French girl who has been brought up by overprotective parents. When she's
old enough, Amélie (Audrey Tautou) leaves the suburbs for Paris where she finds
work as a waitress in a cafe. Life is uneventful until her chance discovery of
a tin box containing a schoolboy's long forgotten memories.
Presented in anamorphic 2.35:1 with both Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1
soundtracks, it was originally intended for this release to be a feature-packed
double-disc set, but now it's only coming out with a director's commentary
as an extra.
America's Sweethearts (£19.99, Columbia TriStar)
Gwen (Catherine Zeta-Jones) and Eddie (John Cusack) are America's Sweethearts - the country's favourite
couple, on-screen and off. But when their very public romance turns into a very private breakup, only veteran
press angent Lee (Billy Crystal) and Gwen's assistant Kiki (Julia Roberts) can help Gwen and Eddie show some
love while they promote their last film together. But the press junket is in a resort hotel miles from anywhere, and
while Lee and Kiki frantically try to keep the media away from the real story - and keep Gwen and Eddie from
revealing their secret - Kiki finds something entirely unexpected in this romantic comedy about true love, happily
ever after and other Hollywood type endings.
The film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains extras in the form of
5 deleted scenes, filmographies and a trailer.
The Barefoot Contessa (£15.99, MGM)
With extraordinary beauty and grace,
Spanish dancer Maria Vargas (Ava Gardner) was born to be a star. Aided by American movie director
Harry Dawes (Humphrey Bogart), she attains great success and fortune in Hollywood's land of
dreams. But, though she gives her all for stardom, there is one thing Maria will never compromise -
her soul. No matter what the cost, The Barefoot Contessa will dance to no-one's music but her own.
Presented in 4:3 fullscreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Birdman of Alcatraz (£15.99, MGM)
How does bitter convict Richard Stroud cope with a lifetime of solitary confinement? The answer, in a
sense, comes from above - in the form of a feeble sparrow he finds in the isolation yard. Stroud
brings his newfound companion to his cell, nurses it to health and, from that point on, there's no
turning back. Despite having only a third grade education and no hope of parole, Stroud becomes a
renowned ornithologist - and achieves a greater sense of freedom and purpose behind prison walls
than many in the outside world will ever know. One of the finest prison pictures ever made, this
inspirational and compelling classic from director John Frankenheimer stars Burt Lancaster in an
Oscar-nominated performance as Stroud - the convict who, in his power to heal birds, finds the
power to heal himself.
Presented in 1.85:1 non-anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
The Defiant Ones (£15.99, MGM)
Nominated for nine Academy Awards including Best Picture, Stanley Kramer's The Defiant Ones broke new
ground by delivering its message of racial tolerance through a fast moving blend of action and suspense.
Joker Jackson (Tony Curtis) and Noah Cullen (Sidney Poitier) are two convicts on the
run. Escaping from a Southern work gang, the two men are bound together by an
unbreakable iron chain and separated by an unbridled hatred towards each other.
Relentlessly pursued by a posse of bloodhounds, they put aside their differences to survive. But when a lonely
woman (Cara Williams) breaks their chain and deliberately sends Cullen to certain death, Jackson must decide
what's more important: saving Cullen... or saving himself.
Presented in 1.85:1 non-anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Delicatessen (£19.99, Momentum)
This futuristic comedy is a sublime tale from French filmmakers Jeunet
(Amélie) and Caro. In a starving, post-holocaust France, a butcher keeps his customers supplied by his
cannibalistic tendencies. But when his daughter falls in love with a circus performer, only an underground band
of vegetarian freedom fighters can save her beloved from the meat cleaver.
Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, the disc contains extras for a Director's commentary
from Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Making of feature, Fine Slices (and Delicacies) from Diane Bertrand,
Footage from the archives of Jean-Pierre Jeunet, 6 Teasers and a Theatrical Trailer.
September (£15.99, MGM)
After a devastating nervous breakdown, emotionally fragile Lane (Mia Farrow) has returned to her
childhood home in Vermont to recuperate. Buoyed by a summer romance with neighboring writer
Sam (Sam Waterston), Lane is soon determined to leave Vermont and start a new life. But when Sam's
affections mysteriously cool and Lane's over-bearing mother arrives with a shocking announcement,
Lane finds herself suddenly tangled in a destructive web of passion, deception and manipulation.
Now her only way out of her emotional tailspin is to confront the fear she's never escaped... and a
terrifying secret that has haunted her life.
Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Shadows and Fog (£15.99, MGM)
Recruited by an inept mob of vigilantes, Kleinman (Woody Allen), a cowardly clerk is forced to search for a
notorious murderer - only to stumble upon a feisty sword-swallower, Irmy (Mia Farrow,m), running away
from the circus, and her clownish boyfriend (John Malkovich). Determined to help Irmy, and eager to
escape the vigilantes, Kleinman abandons his search for the killer... or so he thinks. Rushing
headlong into the odious night, Kleinman and Irmy are launched into a mysterious world of
shadows and fog... from which they may never emerge.
Presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Sweet Smell of Success (£15.99, MGM)
This is the film about a ruthless journalist (Burt Lancaster) and an
unscrupulous press agent (Tony Curtis) who'll do anything to achieve success.
It's late at night in the steamy, neon-lit streets of New York's Times Square, and everything's buzzing
with nervous energy. But press agent Sidney Falco (Curtis) is oblivious to the whirlwind of street
vendors, call girls and con men bustling around him as he nervously waits for early edition of The
Globe. Whose career did gossip columnist J.J. Hunsecker (Lancaster) launch today... and whose
did he destroy?
Presented in 1.85:1 non-anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
J.C. Wiatt (Diane Keaton) has it all. She's beautiful, a successful management consultant, a
high-powered career woman success story for the 80's. She's the ultimate Yuppie. En route to the
most important business meeting of her life, J.C. discovers that she has inherited a 13 month – old
baby girl. She faces some tough choices as she tries to keep her "business first" life and become a
supermum at the same time. Squeezed out at work by her shift in priorities, J.C. moves with her
baby to Vermont where, despite everything going against her, she starts the first gourmet baby food
company and falls for the town's handsome vet (Sam Shepard). This sophisticated screwball
comedy about the pitfalls and payoffs of instant parenthood will put a smile on your face again and
again.
Presented in 1.85:1 non-anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Bachelor Party (£15.99, Fox)
This look at one man's final moments of bachelorhood stars Tom Hanks as Rick, reluctant
recipient of a bachelor bash given by a group of friends who view partying as their full-time religion. Rick's
worried fiancée, Debbie (Tawny Kitaen), dresses up in disguise and crashes the party to spy on her future
husband. To complicate the night further, Debbie's father hires her ex-boyfriend to win back his daughter. It turns
out to be an evening the soon-to-be-bride and groom will never forget.
This film is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains a trailer, three featurettes
(Behind The Scenes, An American Tradition, While The Men Play) and interview clips with Tom Hanks.
Bones (£19.99, Entertainment in Video)
Jimmy Bones is the person who looks after his neighbourhood until he is betrayed. Twenty years on the
neighbourhood has fallen apart and Jimmy's spirit is about to return...
The film stars Snoop Doggy Doggy & Pam Grier, is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen
and two versions of a music video by Snoop Doggy Dogg. "Dogg Named Snoop" is shown as both
a director's cut and a performance edit.
The Bounty (£19.99, Sanctuary)
Robert Bolt's screen adaptation of Richard Hugh's book 'Captain Bligh and Mister Christian'
stars Mel Gibson as Fletcher Christian and Anthony Hopkins as Captain Bligh
in this version of the famous 18th Century mutiny. The cast also includes Laurence Olivier,
Edward Fox, Liam Neeson and Daniel Day Lewis.
Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the extras are: 2 audio commentaries, a stills gallery
and trailers detailing the previous film adaptations of the story, cast and crew profiles
and a 28-page booklet, giving an account of David Lean's involvement with the film and storyboards
for the proposed sequel.
City Slickers (£12.99, MGM)
New Yorker Mitch Robbins (Billy Crystal) is thirty-nine and miserable. He’s
tired of his job and bored with his life. And his two best friends Ed (Bruno Kirby) and Phil (Daniel Stern) aren’t doing much
better. So when they all decide to chase their troubles away with a fantasy vacation, Mitch and his pals trade
their briefcases for saddlebags and set out to find freedom and adventure herding cattle under the wide New
Mexico sky. But what they discover instead is scorching sun, sore backsides, and more insight into themselves -
and each other - than they ever thought possible.
This film is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains a trailer.
Crocodile Dundee (£19.99, Paramount)
The first and still the best of the three films released to date.
Mick Dundee (Paul Hogan) is an Australian crocodile hunter whose legendary adventures in the
outback have earned him a reputation that has spread to US shores. A New York reporter (Linda
Kozlowski) gets wind of his antics and travels to Australia to interview him, where she meets with a
massive culture shock. She quickly finds herself suitably impressed with Mick's ability to handle this
difficult terrain, if not quite as pleased with his manners. But she soon begins to warm to his charms
and persuades him to come back with her to visit New York - and now it's Mick's turn for a culture
shock.
But is "Crocodile" Dundee ready for the Big Apple. Or more importantly, is the Big Apple ready
for him...?
Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the only extra is a trailer.
Down To Earth (£19.99, Paramount)
Struggling black comic Lance Barton (Chris Rock) knows what it's like to
die on stage. But when his life takes an unexpected turn - straight to heaven - Lance is sure there's
been a mistake.
Miraculously, he's right! An angel tells Lance he was taken prematurely but assures him he can be
returned to Earth - in the aged body of a ruthless white billionaire. In this improbable reincarnation,
Lance begins a hilarious quest to realise his showbiz dream and, along the way, discovers the
person he never imagined he could be...
The film is presented in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen and the extras are
a trailer and a 10-minute featurette.
The Fast and The Furious (£19.99, Columbia TriStar)
They've got the adrenaline rush and the mean machines, but most of all, they've got the extreme need for speed.
On the turbo-charged streets of Los Angeles, every night is a championship race. With nitro-boosted fury,
Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) rules the road turning all his challangers into dust. He and his rival, Johnny Train
(Rick Yune) are the boldest, the baddest and the best. But now, there's new rage on the road...
They know he's tough, they know he's fast, but what they don't know is that he's a speed demon detective (Paul
Walker) with enough drive and determination to come out the winner.
The film stars is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, contains both Dolby Digital 5.1
and DTS 5.1 soundtracks and the extras consist of
featurettes for a Making Of, Racer X: The Article That Inspired the Movie,
Movie Magic Interactive: Special Effects and one on editing for the MPAA. Also,
there's a director's commentary, multiple camera angle stunt sequence, storyboards-to-final
feature comparisons, deleted scenes, a visual effects montage, music videos, music highlights,
production notes, cast and filmmakers notes, a trailer and DVD-ROM features.
Father Ted Series 2 Part 2 (£19.99, VCI)
The final five episodes of Series 2 on one DVD: The Plague, Rock a Hula Ted, New Jack City,
Flight Into Terror and Cigarettes & Alcohol & Rollerblading
The series is presented in 4:3 fullscreen and contains a feature length commentary from
writer Graham Linehan and actor Ardal O'Hanlon.
Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (£24.99, Columbia TriStar)
The year is 2065 AD. The Earth is infested with alien spirits, and mankind faces total extinction. Led by a strange
dream and guided by her mentor Dr. Sid, scientist Aki Ross struggles to collect the eight spirits in the hope of
creating a force powerful enough to destroy the alien presence and pure enough to protect the planet.
With the aid of the Deep Eyes Squadron Aki must save the Earth from its darkest hate and unleash the Final
Fantasy. Final Fantasy is the groundbreaking CGI film from the creators of the Final Fantasy video game
franchise.
The film features the voices of Alec Baldwin, Ving Rhames, Peri Gilpin, Donald Sutherland
and E.R.'s Ming-Na, is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains the
following features:
Disc 1: Commentaries by co-director Motonori Sakakibara, animation director Andy Jones, editor Chris Capp,
staging director Tani Kunite. Isolated score. 3-D Playblast video and storyboard select (82 mins). Aki photoshoot.
Theatrical and teaser trailers. Trailer for Metropolis.
Disc 2: 30 minute 3-D interactive documentary covering 'The Making of Final Fantasy', 'Hironobu Sakaguchi's
Spiritual Vision', 'The Technology of Square Pictures', 'The World of Final Fantasy'. Links to 17 featurettes
including face wraps, concepts, pre-concept art, sets & props and compositing demos (60 minutes). Final
Fantasy 'Shuffler' - become the filmmaker by re-editing a pivotal scene. Featurettes - 'The Gray Project', 'Matte Art
Explorations', 'Compositing Builds', 'Boards and Blasts'. Joke outtakes. Final Fantasy music video 'Thriller'. Mini
movie: 'Aki's Dream'. Alternate opening sequence. Seven in-depth character files. 3 vehicle scale comparisons
(Bandit, Quatro, Black Boa). DVD Rom features - interactive film exploration, virtual tour of Square Pictures,
screen savers, screenplay
Friday the 13th Part 2 (£19.99, Paramount)
Five years after the horrible bloodbath at Camp Crystal Lake, all that remains is the legend of Jason
Voorhees and his demented mother, who had murdered seven camp counsellors. At a nearby
summer camp, the new counsellors are unconcerned about the warnings to stay away from the
infamous site. Carefree, the young people roam the area, not sensing the ominous lurking
presence. One by one, they are attacked and brutally slaughtered.
The film is presented in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen with mono sound and the only extra
is a trailer.
Ghost (£19.99, Paramount)
The classic weepie with the pottery wheel and Patrick Swayze getting killed in a
conspiracy, with Demi Moore as his girlfriend and Whoopi Goldberg as a psychic
who is far from that.. or is she?
The film is presented in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen and the extras are
a trailer, a 22-minute featurette and a director's commentary.
Greenfingers (£15.99, MGM)
Inspired by a true story, this is the tale of a group of criminals serving time in prison. Colin Briggs and his cell
mates are forced to tend to the gardens by the prison warden and soon discover that they have a real talent for
this work.
The film stars Clive Owen, Helen Mirren and Warren Clarke, is presented
in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains a trailer.
The Ladies Man (£19.99, Paramount)
After being unceremoniously sacked from his job as a radio show host for one too many lewd and inappropriate
comments, Leon Phelps (Tim Meadows) finds himself at a loose end. He is turned down by every other radio
station in town, but just when he thinks he has reached the end of the line, a mysterious letter arrives on his
doormat...
His "true love" is asking him to return to her, and her money, immediately. There's just one problem - Leon doesn't
know which one of his hundreds of conquests the letter is from. He sets out on a hilarious mission to uncover
the identity of the mystery lady. However, little does he know that a band of husbands, all of whom have been
scorned by their wives in favour of Leon, are on a mission to find him!
Also starring Billy Dee Williams, Will Ferrell, Karyn Parsons, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen
and Lee Evans, the film is presented in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen and the extras are
a 2-minute trailer and 11 minutes of interview clips.
Legally Blonde (£19.99, MGM)
She's a Beverly Hills beauty who'll do anything to keep her man. Even if it means going all the way... to law
school! Reese Witherspoon stars with Luke Wilson, Selma Blair, Matthew Davis and Victor Garber in a knockout
comedy with a heart of gold - and hair to match. Elle Woods (Witherspoon) is a California blonde with couture
clothes, fabulous friends and the hottest boyfriend on campus. So when Warner Huntingdon III (Davis) suddenly
dumps her and heads for Harvard Law School, Elle takes matters into her own perfectly manicured hands. She
enrols too! Now getting Warner back should be a snap, right? Wrong. Elle's about to begin the toughest fight of
her life - for love, honour, justice and respect for blondes everywhere!
The film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen and the extras consist of:
Audio commentary with director Robert Luketic, Reese Witherspoon and producer Marc Platt. 8 deleted scenes
with director's introduction. 'The Hair That Ate Hollywood' featurette. Music video 'Perfect Day' by Hoku. Legally
Blonde soundtrack advertising spot. Original theatrical trailer. Trivia track.
Legend (£15.99, Fox)
Tom Cruise stars in this visually stunning fantasy adventure from Ridley Scott in which pure good and evil battle
to the death amidst spectacular surroundings. Set in a timeless mythical forest inhabited by fairies, goblins,
unicorns and mortals, the story has Tom Cruise, a mystical forest dweller, chosen by fate to undertake a heroic
quest. He must save a beautiful princess (Mia Sara) and defeat the demonic Lord of Darkness (Tim Curry, under
layers of incredible make-up) or the world will be plunged into a never-ending ice age.
This film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains a trailer.
Mona Lisa (£16.99, Anchor Bay)
A well-revered drama directed by Neil Jordan and starring Bob Hoskins,
Cathy Tyson, Robbie Coltrane & Michael Caine, but not one that ever floated
my boat. The film is presented in anamorphic 16:9 widescreen and Dolby Digital
5.1 sound. Extras include a location report from Film 86, a featurette of Neil Jordan in
Cannes, a clip of Nat King Cole in 1965, a trailer, cast and crew info and
a picture gallery.
My Cousin Vinny (£15.99, Fox)
In this comedy hit, two carefree pals travelling through Alabama are mistakenly arrested and charged with
murder. Fortunately, one of them has a lawyer friend in the family - Vincent Gambini (Joe Pesci), a former auto
mechanic from Brooklyn who has never been in court or in Alabama. When cousin Vinny arrives with his
leather-clad girlfriend (Marisa Tomei in her Oscar-Winning® supporting Actress performance) to handle his first
case, it's a real shock-for him and the deep south!
The film is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains two trailers and a
director's commentary.
The Purple Rose of Cairo (£15.99, MGM)
Lonely Depression-era waitress Cecilia (Mia Farrow) is hopelessly addicted to Hollywood movies. Spellbound by her
new favourite The Purple Rose Of Cairo, Cecilia is astonished when the leading man (Jeff Daniels) suddenly walks
off the screen to meet her. Wooed by his charm, Cecilia finds herself falling for him - until she meets the real
actor who plays him. Romanced by both a fictional character and a famous star, Cecilia struggles to locate the
shifting line between fantasy and reality, only to discover that sometimes it's just a heartbeat away.
This Woody Allen film is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains a trailer.
The Queen Mother: Her Reign in Colour (£12.99, Momentum)
At the time of this DVD's release (Feb 25th 2002) she was alive, but she has
since passed away, as of 3.15pm, Saturday 30th March 2002.
On this DVD, recently-discovered colour film footage throws a new
light on her reign as Consort to King George VI from 1937-53.
This DVD is presented in 4:3 fullscreen, with English subtitles and runs for
a mere 49 minutes.
Ring 0 (£19.99, Tartan)
The video curse which struck in the previous installments of Ring was not, it turns out, the first incarnation of the
fatal power possessed by Sadako. With a death toll reaching back as far as the 1950s - when open-reel tape
recorders were the technological means by which the curse could manifest itself - the evil legacy has been more
widespread than anyone could have imagined. Finally, the secrets surrounding the evolution of the curse are
about to be be revealed...
When a reporter is struck down during a widely publicised demonstration of parapsychological power by one
Yananura Shizuko, unnatural events are put into motion. One by one, every single journalist present at the event
is struck down, and as the 1960s draw to a close, the fiance of the first man to die is determined to find
whoever, or whatever, is responsible and take her revenge.
Presented in anamorphic 16:9, the extras include star and director filmographies, stills gallery,
Mark Wyatt film notes, Japanese Ring cycle trailers and the Asia Extreme trailer reel. It's also
region-free.
Running Scared (£12.99, MGM)
Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal star in a motion picture that asks the question, "How come the bad guys always
drive the good cars?" The answer has them Running Scared in this lightning-paced comic thriller from director
Peter Hyams. Ray and Danny are two of Chicago's finest - a pair of fast-talking crime-fighters who love
chasing bad guys, dodging bullets and making the mean streets, well, less mean. They are the bad boys who
grew up to be the good guys, two of the best cops on the force - until they screw up. As a result they are
forced to take some leave. They decide to go to Florida, which opens their eyes to a paradise in the sun where
they can chase the good life. The trick is to get there with their youth and their bodies still intact. The bad news is
every crook in Chicago wants to take one last shot at them.
This film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen and contains a trailer.
Saving Grace (£17.99, Fox)
When her husband jumped out of a plane without a parachute, Grace Trevethen (Brenda Blethyn) knew life would get
tough... but she had no idea just how tough. Left with a manor on the Cornish coast, a mountain of
debt and dozens of creditors on her heels, she is about to lose everything. But with Matthew (Craig Ferguson), the
manor's Caretaker, Grace hatches an outrageous idea: why not use her renowned green thumb to
plant a cash crop and pay off her debts?
Soon her greenhouse becomes a hot bed of illegal activity - and business starts blooming. But if the
buzz gets too big, these budding entrepreneurs just might have to watch their dream go up in
smoke!
The film is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen. Yes, the cinematic ratio was 2.35:1 but
it must've been shot with Super-35 as this print sees the matte opened up so you get some
extra picture top and bottom. Extras include a trailer, interviews and a 20-minute featurette.
Soul Survivors (£rental, Momentum)
College freshman, Cassie is horrifically injured in a car accident which kills her boyfriend Sean. She tries to get
over her ordeal but finds herself hovering between life and death and turns to a young priest to help her...
The DVD is only available to rent now, at first. The version you rent should be in anamorphic
16:9 widescreen and with a trailer and production notes as extras, as well as English subtitles.
However, the one that turned up here is one of the first DVDs I've seen that is timecoded, which is
bloody annoying because it's even worse than seeing "BBC Choice" or "E4 Movie"
stuck on the screen when I'm trying to watch a film. Also, there are no extras on this disc
and the film is presented in 4:3 fullscreen! What the hell are they playing at?
The Terrorist (£19.99, Tartan)
Malli (Ayesha Dharker), a 19 year-old Sri Lanken, lives with a small community of guerilla fighters in the South Indian jungles.
Their enigmatic leader promotes terrorism for political gain and everyone is expected to be committed to the
cause. When an important Indian politician plans a visit to a neighbouring village, Malli is overjoyed to be
hand-picked for a suicide mission; her own brother died for the cause and she believes it will bring great honour
to his revered name.
Embarking on her two-day journey through the jungle she encounters allies and enemies, and begins to have
doubts. During her training she stays with an unsuspecting farmer and his wife, an old couple she grows close
to, and with them finds time to contemplate her actions. With the day of the assassination dawning, she prepares
for her ultimate sacrfice. With memories of true love and life's greater meaning haunting her, her moral dilemma
increases...
Presented in anamorphic 16:9, the extras include star and director filmographies, stills gallery,
Jonathan Carter film notes, World Cinema trailer reel and a few notes about the film's support
from John Malkovich. It's also region-free.
Wayne's World (£19.99, Paramount)
The excellent film to part-ay with, which was established on Saturday Night Live.
When a sleazy TV exec (Rob Lowe) offers Wayne (Mike Myers) and Garth (Dana Carvey) a fat contract
to tape their late-night-cable-access show at his network, the two can't believe their good fortune ("No way". "WAY!"). But they soon discover the
road from basement to big time is a gnarly one, fraught with danger, temptation, and ragin' party opportunites.
Can Wayne win the affections of rock goddess Cassandra (Tia Carrere)? Will Garth get dunked by his dream girl
(Donna Dixon) at the doughnut shop?
Presented in anamorphic 16:9, the extras are just a trailer, interviews and director's commentary.
Given that both films can be bought on video together for around £12.99 and the two DVDs
would cost you £40, why couldn't we see some SNL footage of the original show?
Wayne's World 2 (£19.99, Paramount)
Having achieved godlike status as a late-night TV personality, Wayne (Mike Myers) now
confronts the question that has plagued man for centuries: Is there life after cable?
Wayne gets his answer in a dream, wherein a very famous (and very dead) rock star says, "Put on a rock
concert, and they will come." So Wayne and Garth (Dana Carvey) present "Waynestock." But first, Wayne must
save his girlfriend Cassandra (Tia Carrere) from a sinister record producer (Christopher Walken), as Garth
grapples with the advances of mega-babe Honey Hornee (Kim Basinger).
Presented in anamorphic 16:9 and again, the extras are scant with just interviews and a director's
commentary.
WWF Rebellion 2001 (£19.99, Silver Vision)
Running for 175 minutes, this DVD features Championship Matches, the Tag Team Championship
Elimination Match, the WWF Intercontinental Championship Steel Cage Match and also the
Divas Tag Team Match with Lita, Torrie Wilson, Mighty Molly, Stacy Keibler and
Trish Status plays referee.
It's presented in 4:3 fullscreen and is region-free.
WWF Survivor Series 2001 (£19.99, Silver Vision)
Running for 189 minutes, this DVD takes in a 10-strong Winner Take All Elimination Match of 10
WWF stars, the Immunity Invitational Battle Royal Match, the Steel Cage Tag Team Championship
Unification Match, the Championship Unification Match, the European Championship and also the Six
Pack Challenge for the Women's Championship featuring Lita, Jacqueline, Trish, Ivory, Mighty
Molly and Jazz. It's presented in 4:3 fullscreen and is region-free.
In this erotic feature, a soft-spoken, beautiful photographer retreats to her friend's hillside home to
re-think her relationship and her career. The quiet gives rise to a longing for something she cannot
define... a sexual awakening that is fuelled by the discovery of her friend's high power telescope.
Through this new lens of desire she is drawn into a dangerous game of mystery and lust when she
discovers that it is she that is being watched by an unknown stranger. Who or what is behind the
strange occurence? And where will Lisa's journey into the erotic taboo of voyeurism lead her?
Presented in 4:3 fullscreen, the only extras are a photo gallery and a trailer for the sequel,
Eyes of Desire II.
Command and Conquer: Renegade is a 3D action game based on Westwood Studios' successful real-time strategy series. For the first time ever it's
possible to get up close and personal, as you fight on the ground around those famous structures. Played from either a first or third-person perspective,
Renegade is C&C for Quake fans.
In Renegade you become GDI Commando Havoc. Fans might remember him from the very first Command and Conquer game. You are the last line of
defence for the Global Defence Initiative and their best chance of defeating the Brotherhood of Nod.
The style of gameplay is relatively open-ended, it's your choice if you want to use stealth techniques or go guns blazing into the fray. Of course, you can
mix and match the playing styles depending on the situation. It's usually a good idea to use the lay of the land to attack from the most effective position.
A new feature for Renegade is the ability to make use of over twelve vehicles including rocket bikes, Orca fighters and flame tanks. Toasting enemies with
the flame thrower is satisfying as well as useful.
A multi-player matchmaking service is being offered by Westwood Online so you can challenge other gamers from around the world to a game of
Renegade. The multiplayer experience includes both teamplay and deathmatch games.
Dropship: United Peace Force (PS2) (£39.99, Sony)
Deploy and destroy using the cutting edge Dropship technology to reinforce peace in world-wide hotspots. Load your Dropship with deadly combat
vehicles and fly, drive and shoot your way through a massive enemy-infested photo-realistic terrain. Your decisions affect the outcome as your wingmen
and ground forces rely on your guidance and support. Reveal a tale of military might and political intrigue as you and your co-pilot take out tactical targets
to cripple enemy strongholds.
A new power has come to the fore in China. Although not democratically elected this new regime seems to be complying to all international law and
therefore the United Peace Force (UPF) remains more concerned with trouble-spots in Sahara, Colombia and Kazakhstan. However over the course of the
game you learn through your wingman and co-pilot (events unfold in FMV) that this new regime is squashing all resistance with brutal force and worse
still, attempting to build a new super technology that will render the UPF's attempts to create world peace - obsolete. The player must play through
missions to uncover this storyline and eventually attack the headquarters of the sinister regime, taking out the super-technology and galvanising prospects
for world peace.
Ecco the Dolphin (PS2) (£39.99, Sony)
Delving into the underwater world is similar to flying a jet, but being a dolphin is a more relaxed and pleasurable experience. The same sort of control
method and freedom of movement applies.
Ecco is essentially an exploration and puzzle game. One of the earliest levels sees a baby whale trapped under falling rocks. The mother is naturally
distressed and Ecco cannot free the baby by himself. He needs to make use of his sonar to communicate with other dolphins to enlist their help. Then it’s
possible to move the rocks and save the day. Other puzzles include simple things like working out your air supply in underwater caves or outfoxing
dangerous sharks. Stealth tactics come into play in the later levels.
It looks and sounds excellent but is very odd to play.
Legends of Wrestling (Playstation 2) (£39.99, Acclaim)
A contender to the WWF crown with 42 of the greatest wrestlers of all time
including Hulk Hogan, Bret 'Hitman' Hart & Jerry 'The King' Lawler.
It's possible to link moves together for lethal single-button combos and
to create your own wrestler.
Matt Hayes Fishing (PC) (£19.99, Electronic Arts)
A fishing game for the PC with 20 to test your fishing skill and 4 modes of play including:
Matt’s Challenge (level based gameplay)
Fishing trip (freeform fishing)
Tournament (compete against computer opponents in a tournament)
Multiplayer (compete over a network against real human opponents)
There are 6 top European fishing venues, including Loch Lomond, Lough Derg, Grafham Reservoir
and Gamlebyviken and 6 predatory species on which to test your tackle, including
Pike, Perch, Zander, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Chub and Salmon.
Bonus are also available by catching special fish to give you an extra
chance of beating the level
Moto GP 2 (Playstation 2) (£39.99, Namco)
Time to get saddle-sore with the follow-up to last year's Moto GP,
a review of which can be found
HERE.
Peter Pan: Return to Neverland (PSX and PS2) (£29.99 each, Sony)
An into-the-screen "run, jump, fly and collect" game aimed at youngsters and based on the
recent Peter Pan film sequel.
Sled Storm (PS2) (£39.99, Electronic Arts)
A sled-racing game with 7 unique tracks with extensive hidden shortcuts and alternate routes,
2 player split screen action, plus music and sound effects are provided via DTS surround
sound.
Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World (Gameboy Advance) (£34.99, Nintendo)
The SNES classic goes portable with new multiplayer and other modes. Meet Yoshi the legendary dinosaur and save Princess Peach from the Koopa King.
9 worlds and 96 levels packed with hidden areas.
DVDs reviewed by the editor are watched on a Panasonic TXW32R4 32" widescreen TV
connected to either a Creative Dxr2 DVD-ROM player or Microsoft Xbox and
played through a Sony STR-DB930 amplifier.
PC games reviewed by the editor are on:
Since Nov 2005: Intel Pentium D 830 3.0Ghz, 1Gb RAM, 128Mb nVidia GeForce 6700XL, Windows XP
Since Aug 2003: Intel Pentium 4 2.66Ghz, 512Mb RAM, 128Mb GeForce4 MX440 graphics, Windows XP
Since May 2003: Intel Pentium 4 2.6Ghz, 512Mb RAM, 128Mb ATI Radeon 9600TX graphics, Windows XP
Since Jun 2002: Intel Pentium III 600Mhz, 384Mb RAM, Windows 98 SE, 64Mb ATI Radeon 8500LE
Since May 2000: Intel Pentium III 600Mhz, 384Mb RAM, Windows 98 SE, Voodoo 3 3000 AGP
Air America (£9.99, Momentum)
Cutthroat Island (£9.99, Momentum)
L.A. Story (£9.99, Momentum)
Lock Up (£9.99, Momentum)
Blow Out (£12.99, MGM)
Dressed To Kill (£12.99, MGM)
The Russia House (£12.99, MGM)
The Taking of Pelham 123 (£12.99, MGM)
The Usual Suspects: Special Edition (£22.99, MGM)
The 51st State (£rental, Momentum)
In Bed with Madonna (£15.99, MGM)
Stargate SG1 Vol 20: Series 5 Episodes 1-4 (£19.99, MGM)
Swimming with Sharks (£15.99, Second Sight)
Amélie (£19.99, Momentum)
America's Sweethearts (£19.99, Columbia TriStar)
The Barefoot Contessa (£15.99, MGM)
Birdman of Alcatraz (£15.99, MGM)
The Defiant Ones (£15.99, MGM)
Delicatessen (£19.99, Momentum)
September (£15.99, MGM)
Shadows and Fog (£15.99, MGM)
Sweet Smell of Success (£15.99, MGM)
Baby Boom (£12.99, MGM)
Bachelor Party (£15.99, Fox)
Bones (£19.99, Entertainment in Video)
The Bounty (£19.99, Sanctuary)
City Slickers (£12.99, MGM)
Crocodile Dundee (£19.99, Paramount)
Down To Earth (£19.99, Paramount)
The Fast and The Furious (£19.99, Columbia TriStar)
Father Ted Series 2 Part 2 (£19.99, VCI)
Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (£24.99, Columbia TriStar)
Friday the 13th Part 2 (£19.99, Paramount)
Ghost (£19.99, Paramount)
Greenfingers (£15.99, MGM)
The Ladies Man (£19.99, Paramount)
Legally Blonde (£19.99, MGM)
Legend (£15.99, Fox)
Mona Lisa (£16.99, Anchor Bay)
My Cousin Vinny (£15.99, Fox)
The Purple Rose of Cairo (£15.99, MGM)
The Queen Mother: Her Reign in Colour (£12.99, Momentum)
Ring 0 (£19.99, Tartan)
Running Scared (£12.99, MGM)
Saving Grace (£17.99, Fox)
Soul Survivors (£rental, Momentum)
The Terrorist (£19.99, Tartan)
Wayne's World (£19.99, Paramount)
Wayne's World 2 (£19.99, Paramount)
WWF Rebellion 2001 (£19.99, Silver Vision)
WWF Survivor Series 2001 (£19.99, Silver Vision)
Eyes of Desire (£19.99, MIA)
Command & Conquer: Renegade (PC) (£29.99, Electronic Arts)
Dropship: United Peace Force (PS2) (£39.99, Sony)
Ecco the Dolphin (PS2) (£39.99, Sony)
Legends of Wrestling (Playstation 2) (£39.99, Acclaim)
Matt Hayes Fishing (PC) (£19.99, Electronic Arts)
Moto GP 2 (Playstation 2) (£39.99, Namco)
Peter Pan: Return to Neverland (PSX and PS2) (£29.99 each, Sony)
Sled Storm (PS2) (£39.99, Electronic Arts)
Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World (Gameboy Advance) (£34.99, Nintendo)
Worms 2 (PC) (£4.99, Sold Out)