(New Video, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP)

Filmed just 36 hours after the events of 9/11, this series of interviews conducted by Bill Moyers are a remarkable cross-section of opinions, observations, and analyses from multiple social strata – from the "man on the street" to professionals to an Afghan-American. What is most remarkable is how fascinating these pieces are from a psychological standpoint - in seeing how diverse people's coping mechanisms are - as Moyers paints a picture of the tragedy through the voices of those still trying to make sense of it.

(National Geographic, Not Rated, DVD-$99.98 SRP)

If there's one single thing that a National Geographic special guarantees the viewer, it's a beautifully shot production. The second, but no less important, guarantee is the way in which anthropological information is presented in such a way as to make it seem like something infinitely more fascinating than the classes I fell asleep in during college. In those two key respects, National Geographic's 8-hour exploration of the people, culture, wildlife, and geography of the African continent does not disappoint. From beautiful vistas of serene savannas to teeming population centers, every aspect of this landmass is explored and served up to the viewer in an enticing fashion. The 4-disc DVD set is presented in widescreen with 5.1 sound, and includes a bonus 1-hour making-of special.

(Acorn Media, Not Rated, DVD-$19.95 SRP each)

You know, one wouldn't think that the concept of a crime-solving medieval monk would be nothing more than a set-up for a joke, but one would be proven wrong after viewing this series of mysteries starring Derek Jacobi as the titular brother. What one does get are a series of intriguing mysteries – made all the more riveting by the fact that the sleuthing process is filtered through the prism of the time period. Currently, there are seven programs available on DVD – The Virgin In The Ice, The Devil's Novice, St. Peter's Fair, The Leper Of St. Giles, A Morbid Taste For Bones, The raven In The Foregate, and The Rose Rent. Bonus features on the DVDs include audio comments from Jacobi, bios, booklists, and production scrapbooks.

(Skypilot, Not Rated, DVD-$17.99 SRP)

This has to be, without a doubt, one of the most messed-up things I've ever seen… And I mean that as a compliment. Wu-Tang member Cappadonna – along with the likes of Steph Lova, Jamie Summers, Othorized F.A.M. – have redubbed the Kung-Fu "classic" Iron Fist Pillage with a decidedly… urban… slant. The end product is a hilarious juxtaposition of old school kung-fu and new school rap. Think of it as a hip-hop What's New Pussycat.

(Acorn Media, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP each)

What if the world were flat – and lay atop four elephants, all of whom are standing on a giant turtle hurtling through the universe? That world would be famed British author Terry Pratchett's Discworld – a world full of quirky characters, daft wordplay, and plenty of humor. Think of it in terms of a loopy version of Tolkein's Middle-Earth. Make more sense now? Well, if it still doesn't, dive in to the deep end and experience the Discworld in animated form via two DVD releases adapting two of Pratchett's novels – Soul Music and Wyrd Sisters . While quite British in its humor, both adaptations are quite funny – even if the animation isn't exactly up to Disney quality… But who has the money for that? Both DVDs are packed with nearly identical extras – a rather extensive interview with Pratchett, storyboards, the original pilot film, cast filmographies, a Pratchett bio, character bios, and a list of the Discworld books.

(Anchor Bay, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP)

All I can say is: Peter Cushing as the Doctor. If that doesn't get you excited about seeing the two features contained in this set – Dr. Who and the Daleks and Daleks: Invasion Earth 2150 AD – I don't know what will. And hey – they're even presented in all their anamorphic cinemascope glory! There's also a bonus third disc in the collection containing the documentary Dalekmania , which takes a look at the Doctor Who phenomenon at the height of the 1960's. Dr. Who and the Daleks contains an audio commentary with stars Jennie Linden and Roberta Tovey moderated by Jonathan Sothcott, the photo essay "A History Of Doctor Who", the theatrical trailer and a poster and still gallery. Daleks: Invasion Earth 2150 AD contains the theatrical trailer and a poster and still gallery.

(ADV Films, Not Rated, DVD-$24.98 SRP each)

Farscape is a disturbing sci-fi show… and I really don't know why it disturbs me. The story revolves around a motley crew of outcasts  traveling the far side of the universe – including NASA pilot John Crichton, whose experimental spacecraft engine took him a little farther than he anticipated. I don't know if it's the show's tone – which can veer from humorous to serious to weird at the drop of a hat – or the British-esque production values and cinematography… this show just gives me the willies. Don't get me wrong, though – it's an interesting watch, and a worthy addition to annals of sci-fi. ADV Films has released 10 volumes so far, with the 11^th volume forthcoming, and each DVD is packed with features such as commentary, behind-the-scenes featurettes, actor profiles, and more. It's a smorgasbord of digital delight for a downright quirky show.

(Artisan, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

There's nothing like a nicely produced Discovery Channel special to really grip my relatively short attention span – a "nicely done" best sums up this comprehensive look at the genesis, planning, construction, and future of the International Space Station. Years in the making with years to go, viewers get a clear portrait of just what a monumental task its construction is, while also being told the numerous benefits to research afforded by the station. The DVD contains featurettes, a Q&A with the director, a timeline, and a photo gallery.

(BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP)

To call The League of Gentlemen surreal would be, well, a bit of an understatement. Demented, trippy, outrageous, confounding… Again – an understatement. No matter what other words one might grasp at to describe this glimpse into the small English town of Royston Vasey, there is no denying that it is funny. Thankfully, American viewers can now on the entirety of the first series on a single DVD – which also contains an audio commentary with the League of Gentlemen team, a virtual tour of Royston Vasey, previously unseen material, outtakes, missing scenes, and a photo gallery. Trust me… It has to be seen to be believed.

(Acorn Media, Not Rated, DVD-$39.95 SRP each)

It's amazing how many detecetive series have come from British authors – especially if one then looks at just how well-written the majority of them are. In that law of averages, Dorothy L. Sayers' erudite Lord Peter Wimsey definitely falls into the "good" category. What is perhaps most satisfying about the Wimsey adaptations done by the BBC is that the stories have been translated so well, and a nuanced character that could be disastrous in other hands is played beautifully by Ian Carmichael. Acorn Media currently has three Wimsey 2-disc sets available on DVD – The Nine Tailors, Clouds Of Witness, and The Red Herrings. Each set features an Ian Carmichael interview, filmographies, trivia, and Dorothy Sayers materials.

(A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$19.95 SRP)

The Lost Battalion revolves around the embattled 77^th Division, 308^th Battalion of the U.S. Army during a hellish five day period at the height of World War I. Cut off from the rest of the army by the Germans – with no food, water, ammo, or means of communication – they were at the mercy of the enemy surrounding them. Miraculously, they were able to stave off them off – a grueling five-day contest of wills. While occasionally melodramatic, The Lost Battalion mostly succeeds in painting a portrait of war both damning and heroic – while not losing sight of the men who fight them. The DVD contains a surprisingly nice bonus – the History Channel special Dear Home: Letters From World War I. The DVD also contains a bio and filmography for star Rick Schroder.

(Artisan, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

I figured the best way to tackle these two Mammoth-centric titles from The Discovery Channel would be to cover them both at the same time. So, what do science-minded fans get? Basically, Land of the Mammoth details the scientist search through the frozen landscapes looking for elusive mammoth remnants. The original documentary, Raising the Mammoth, is definitely the more interesting of the two, as it documents the initial discovery of a frozen mammoth in 1997 and the 1999 airlift out of its icy tomb. Land of the Mammoth is presented in anamorphic widescreen, and contains behind-the-scenes shorts and a photo gallery. Raising the Mammoth is in fullscreen, and contains scientist biographies, a mammoth timeline, a mammoth fact-file, and a conversation with French explorer Bernard Buigues.

(ADV Films, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP each)

If you're an anime fan and you have yet to experience Neon Genesis Evangelion – run to your nearest DVD emporium. To say that this series is one of the biggest head trips I've ever seen is an understatement… a severe understatement. Any show that revolves around the epic battles between mysterious beings - known only as the Angels - and mankind's last hope – the Evangelions – has got to be at least interesting. Add to it the fact that, in true anime fashion, the Evangelions are piloted by an elite team of young warriors. Think Voltron with a deep metaphysical and spiritual undercurrent, and you'd come close to capturing what this show is all about. The DVDs contain character bios.

(Acorn Media, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP)

I've never really been a fan of Charles Dickens. While the perennial treat A Christmas Carol has its undeniable charms, I've been able to resist the more dubious appeal of his other works. Maybe it's all the class warfare – I don't really know. As an adaptation, Channel 4's Nicholas Nickleby is pretty faithful – which should make fans of the book quite happy. For others, like myself… well… Did I mention it's faithful? The anamorphic DVD contains cast filmographies, Dickens materials, and a photo gallery.

(National Geographic, Not Rated, DVD-$29.99 SRP each)

If you're still trying to swallow last summer's big-budget bitter pill, Pearl Harbor, you might want to check out a pair of documentaries from National Geographic. Beyond the Movie: Pearl Harbor directly relates to the feature film, dissecting how historically faithful it was – and wasn't – through interviews with survivors, historians, and the filmmakers themselves. It's an interesting insight into the Hollywood process, and also a nice introductory look at the history involved. For a more in-depth look, there's Pearl Harbor: Legacy of Attack – which couples its historical lesson with Dr. Robert Ballard's search for the Japanese mini-submarine suspected to have been sunk off Pearl Harbor prior to the attack. The documentary also shows the first video footage ever taken within the sunken USS Arizona. The Beyond the Movie DVD contains three bonus documentaries (Japanese Relocation Camps, The Army Nurse, and Pearl Harbor Newsreel) and a timeline. Legacy of Attack includes a behind-the-scenes featurette on Dr. Ballard's expedition and interactive maps of the Japanese bombing runs.

(Acorn Media, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP each)

Growing up, I always thought Agatha Christie's Poirot was French – don't ask me why. As time went by, I grew up and learned to pay attention to what I was watching… He's Belgian, by the way. It's a good thing I did learn to pay attention, because Christie's detective is a wry, fascinating problem solver – made all the more evident in his portrayal onscreen by David Suchet. Acorn Media currently has a whole slew of Poirot mysteries available on DVD – and I recommend them all. Currently available are Hickory Dickory Dock, Murder On The Links, Hercule Poirot's Christmas, Peril At End House, Mysterious Affair At Styles, The ABC Murders, Death In The Clouds , and One Two Buckle My Shoe. All of the DVDs contain bios of Christie and Suchet, trivia, cast filmographies, and Christie materials.

(BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$14.98 SRP)

Told in an animation style similar to that of Aardman (Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run), Robbie tells the tale of Robbie the Reindeer, of course. Robbie is the son of Rudolph, who send his son off to train with all of the other reindeer – as well as take his place at the head of Santa's team. What Robbie doesn't realize is that he has a devious foe in Blitzen, who is still resentful of Rudolph's fame and eager to see his son fail. A fun, funny 30 minute adventure for kids or adults. The anamorphic DVD contains an audio commentary with the director, a making-of featurette, complete animated storyboards, cast & character bios, and a photo gallery.

(ADV Films, Not Rated, DVD-$44.98 SRP each)

It's been over 15 years since Robotech began airing on TV here in the US – piquing the interest of American viewers and heralding the full-scale assault of Japanese anime that was on the horizon. It's a true joy to revisit the Robotech saga through what I can only describe as an exhaustively well-done series of box sets from ADV films. While the volumes are available separately, I'm recommending the boxsets because – well – you've got to watch it straight through. Six of a total of seven sets have been released thus far, each one containing a third disc of bonus materials, ranging from English-language versions to pre-production artwork and rare behind-the-scenes footage. If you have fond memories of Robotech, these sets are a must. If you've yet to experience Robotech – these sets are a must.

(New Video, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP)

This Academy Award Nominated documentary asks what one would think is a rather simple question – if you could make you deaf child hear, would you? From that seemingly straightforward query comes a profoundly deep debate when the parents of the child in question happen to both be deaf… both also members of families with a large amount of deaf relatives. Their concern is that their daughter, Heather, will be forsaking a vast and interesting deaf culture – comprised of a unique visual and artistic language. Heather's hearing grandparents, however, are pushing for the operation. What this documentary presents, then, is an interesting debate – based in cultural beliefs – with the fate of a 5 year-old child in play. The DVD contains bonus interviews and outtakes not seen in the film.

(MGM/UA, Not Rated, DVD-$14.95 SRP)

Slowly but surely, the classic films of Peter Sellers are making their way to DVD and, while not one of his best films, After the Fox is definitely a must-see for afficianados. What else can you expect from the director of The Bicycle Thief and Neil Simon? Sellers plays a maniacal thief intent on swindling a huge shipment of gold bullion – a plan aided by his numerous changes of disguise. However, things begin to unravel when he poses as a film director directing a film about – a gold theft. The anamorphic DVD contains the film's original theatrical trailer.

(Columbia/Tristar, Rated PG-13, DVD-$24.95 SRP)

What could have more inherent comic potential than the ticking time bomb that is a blind date? Why then is this Blake Edwards film, placing Bruce Willis (at the height of Moonlighting) in a steadily disastrous outing with a beautiful woman (Kim Basinger), such a bore? What should snap with comic punch instead flounders under languid timing. It's an interesting viewing, however, just to see a nascent Bruce Willis emerging into a true movie star. The anamorphic DVD contains the film's theatrical trailer.

(BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP each)

Anyone who caught this documentary series during its American airing on The Discovery Channel will attest to the beautiful photography highlighting the undersea menagerie that makes up this "Blue Planet" we call Earth. No matter how good it looked on your TV, however, it looks infinitely more beautiful on DVD. On four programs spanning two DVDs, all of the varying aquatic environments are covered, from the frozen seas to the deepest parts of the oceans – and all of the amazing creatures contained therein. The Blue Planet: Ocean World/Frozen Seas DVD contains behind-the-scenes featurettes, an interview with cameraman Doug Allan, a music video, photo gallery, and fact files. The Blue Planet: Open Ocean/The Deep DVD contains behind-the-scenes featurettes, an interview with "The Deep" researcher Penny Allen, a photo gallery, and fact files.

(Universal, Rated R, VHS-Priced For Rental, DVD-$26.98 SRP)

Director John Madden's follow-up to Shakespeare In Love treads many of the same grounds – the power of love over social morays and so on – but fails to deliver any of the charm of the former. Instead, we get a warmed-over soap opera revolving around the passionate love affair between Italian officer Antonio Corelli (Nicolas Cage) and a young Greek woman named Pelagia (Penelope Cruz) whom he falls head-over-heels for while stationed on her tiny island. Unfortunately, their love is complicated by the fact that she is engaged to a local fisherman (Christian Bale). Yet another wrench is thrown into the works when the war finally intrudes on their little corner of paradise – forcing Corelli and Pelagia into making drastic decisions, and delivering the viewer from overwhelming boredom… albeit far too late. The anamorphic DVD contains a commentary with Madden, a Russell Watson music video, production notes, cast & crew info, and the trailer.

(Warner Bros, Rated G, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

For those of you out there who still have a bad taste in your mouth over the disappointment that was Elmo In Grouchland , then I have good news for you – Follow That Bird is now on DVD. As enjoyable for adults as it is for kids, the writing is never downshifted to a supposed "kid" level, but instead retains the same multi-level scripting that made the good old days of Sesame Street so much fun for both the adults and their children. Even better is that this flick was made while Jim Henson and Richard Hunt were still alive (as well as a time when the human cast had just as big a role to play in the story, unlike modern Sesame Street). Of course, with every bit of good news, there's bad. Warner Bros has released this title only in Pan & Scan – did they not learn their lessons after the Willy Wonka debacle last year? The disc is also featureless save for the theatrical trailer – two huge negatives one can only hope will be rectified in the near future.

(BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$14.98 SRP each)

French & Saunders are a true rarity – blisteringly funny sketch comediennes. Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are truly a talented duo that must be seen to be believed – in everything from their scathing film parodies to just their basic sketchwork. Thankfully, BBC has finally released two volumes of F&S on DVD – Gentlemen Prefer French & Saunders and French & Saunders At The Movies. Both volumes are must-haves, and both DVDs contain a bonus F&S special – including a wonderful takeoff on Star Wars Episode I.

(MGM/UA, Rated R, DVD-$26.98 SRP)

While watching Ghost World, one gropes for just the right word to apply to it… A word that perfectly sums it up. Unfortunately, while a reviewer may desire brevity, some films prove to be much more complicated than brevity allows. This is one of those films. To undercut this flick's genius, I could call it a "quirky coming-of-age story" or a "delightful romp" or " an amazing character piece". None of those descriptions do justice to this wonderfully quirky, brilliantly oddball character piece about the summer after high school, and the way two outcasts (Thora Birch and Scarlett Johansson) turn their backwards world upside down – until they make a disastrous targeting error. The anamorphic DVD contains a making-of featurette, deleted and alternate footage, a music video, and the film's trailer.

(A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP)

Ever since seeing Oliver Stone's JFK, I've been fascinated by the idea that the Kennedy assassination was rife with conspiracies – so many conspiracy theories, in fact, that it could make your head spin. In this excellent release from A&E, however, viewers will get a measured, step-by-step rundown and analysis of all of these theories, making for compelling viewing – to say the least. Spanning 2 discs and almost 5 hours, this is not a superficial compilation, but delves the minutiae, as well as the bigger picture (fake autopsy photos, anyone?). The DVD also contains a timeline of critical events.

(Sony Wonder, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

Another Rankin/Bass special finds it's way to DVD, the Easter-friendly Here Comes Peter Cottontail. While not as popular as Rudolph or Frosty, it's still a fun romp executed in classic Rankin/Bass fashion. The remastered DVD also contains the bonus special Puss in Boots.

(Artisan, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

As if they needed any further indication after the debacle that was 10^th Kingdom that the creative well was dry, this TV movie should have hammered that fact home to Hallmark and Henson. Ostensibly, this flick is about the ramifications if the descendent of Jack were to try and lift the family curse inflicted when his ancestor killed the giant. It's actually a very funny premise – unfortunately, none of the entertaining nature inherent in it is contained in the final execution. The DVD contains a behind-the-scenes featurette, as well as a look at Jim Henson's Creature Shop.

(Columbia/Tristar, Rated R, DVD-$19.95 SRP)

What is perhaps most amazing about this film is just how brutally funny it is – and that its director is Bob Zemeckis, a director who isn't exactly seen as helming flicks with an edge to them. In Used Cars, however, there is a delirious abandon in the portrayal of the truly sleazy Rudy Russo (Kurt Russell) - the ace salesman behind one of the dealerships owned by the dueling Fuchs brothers (both played by Jack Warden). What is the true selling point of this DVD relea3e, :esides a film long unavailable, is the audio commentary with Russell, Zemeckis, and Producer/Co-Writer Bob Gale. To say that this trio had a good time recording the commentary would be an understatement – this is one of the funniest, most free-wheeling commentaries I've ever heard. If only half of the commentaries available on DVDs were a quarter as fun. The anamorphic DVD also contains deleted scenes, radio spots, an odd little local TV spot Russell filmed with the owner of the car dealership they shot the film ad, and the theatrical trailer.

(Paramount, Rated PG, DVD-$24.99 SRP each)

Ah, The Bad News Bears. If there ever was a film that summed up a portion of childhood, it's this. I remember watching this film on videodisc (remember that format?) back in my formative years, laughing at the hapless hijinks of that backwards little league team – and their frazzled coach (Walter Matthau). Thankfully, the film has aged well – situational and character humor often does. Unfortunately, the two sequels – The Bad News Bears Go To Japan and The Bad News Bears In Breaking Training – don't hold up well at all… Evidence of the desire to cash in on the successful first film as opposed to a desire to produce anything more than marginal follow-ups. Thankfully, all three films are anamorphic – unfortunately, there are no features. Well, at least the picture and sound quality is good… Beats videodisc, that's for sure.

(Walt Disney, Rated G, DVD-$29.99 SRP)

When they first started releasing DVDs of their animated classics, Disney's bare-bones, lackluster approach drew a great deal of criticism and condemnation from DVD fans who were not terribly impressed with the subpar product. Oh, what a little time and effort will do – Disney is now one of the top producers of content laden, truly special edition DVDs – and, thankfully, their attention has turned to reissuing one of those early bare bones releases. Peter Pan is now a beauty to behold, and packed high enough to the rafters with quality features to earn it a big thumbs up. The DVD contains an audio commentary (a truly informative track featuring Roy Disney, Leonard Maltin, Jeff Kurtti, John Canemaker, Margaret Kerry, Kathryn Beaumont, Ward Kimball, Marc Davis, Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas), the film's original making-of featurette from 1951, a more recent making-of documentary, a storybook, and a game.

(BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$34.98 SRP)

From the same people who brought us Walking With Dinosaurs, here comes a documentary on the early days of the current dominant species – the mammals. Told with the same amazing CG animation and attention to detail, Walking With Prehistoric Beasts is, in a word, fascinating. Oh - and fun. The 2-disc anamorphic set features two 50-minute behind-the-scenes featurette, interviews with the creators, fact files, a photo gallery, and storyboards.

(New Line, Rated R, DVD-$24.98 SRP)

When a small-time hustler (Vince Vaughn) finds himself up against a proposition he can't refuse when a seductive chanteuse (Julia Ormond) introduces him to a legendary con (Ed Harris). Unfortunately, his desire for fast cash puts him in a situation far over his head that deteriorates fast. While not a great film, it's a perfectly good thriller that rests on the shoulders of a wonderful cast. The DVD contains the film in both fullscreen and anamorphic widescreen.

(Criterion, Not Rated, DVD-$39.95 SRP)

Wild Strawberries is a film about life… Simple as that. It's about triumph and tragedy, rapture and regret, hopes and fears, dreams and desires. Through the use of flashback and fantasy, director Ingmar Bergman manages to encapsulate all of these things through a rather simple device, as Professor Isak Borg comes to terms with his life – and impending death – as he travels to accept an honorary degree. While some people find Bergman to be a rather cold director, this is one of his warmest films – and a nice primer on a genius director. As befitting a Criterion release, this disc is packed to the gills. First, there's an extensive documentary, Ingmar Bergman On Life And Work, which is a 90-minute glimpse into, well, the man and his work. The disc also contains an audio commentary from film scholar Peter Cowie and a stills gallery.

(National Geographic, Not Rated, DVD-$24.98 SRP)

While not a terribly big fan of  Peter Jackson's film or the novels themselves, I've always been fascinated by author JRR Tolkein's melding of myth, legend, history, and geography into his fictional Middle-Earth. That process – and the personal aspects of Tolkein's life and experiences that shaped it – is what made this Beyond the Movie release from National Geographic such a pleasure to watch. In creating a context for the creation of Tolkein's world of Hobbits, Orcs, Elves, Humans, and more, everyone from anthropologists to archeologists are interviewed. For anyone interested in the aspects often drawn from when authors create fantastic worlds, this is a must-see. The DVD contains exclusive footage from the film, and interviews with the cast, filmmakers, explorers, anthropologists, and archeologists.

(Home Vision, Not Rated, DVD-$19.95 SRP)

I've never been a fan of alternative artist Robert Crumb's artwork – it's always struck me on some disturbing subliminal level that's hard to quantify. That being said, I found this documentary portrait of Crumb to be imminently fascinating – told in the first person, it paints a confessional portrait of Crumb as an iconoclast both disturbed and talented.

(Winstar, Not Rated, DVD-$9.98 SRP each)

Winstar releases two more volumes of the AFI's documentary series celebrating directors – this time shining a spotlight on Michael Mann and Roger Corman. While the doc on Mann (Ali, Manhunter, Last of the Mohicans) is interesting, by far the more entertaining of the two would be Roger Corman's. Its analysis of the (in)famous independent film producer is a rare look behind the curtain of one of Hollywood's longest standing mavericks whose low-budget flicks were a virtual film school to many an up-and-coming director, including James Cameron, Martin Scorsese, and Ron Howard.

(Fox, Rated R, VHS-Priced For Rental, DVD-$27.98 SRP)

Going in, I was hoping that this flick would prove to be more inventive and interesting than its rather lackluster advertising campaign had led me to believe. While not quite as hackneyed, it wasn't exactly what I was hoping for. Michael Douglas plays a prominent New York City psychiatrist whose daughter is kidnapped. Unfortunately, the key to her safe return is locked away in the troubled mind of a young woman (Britanny Murphy) – and he must try and extract it before time runs out. It's a mild potboiler with occasional suspense, but nothing more. The anamorphic DVD contains an audio commentary with director Gary Fleder and actors Michael Douglas, Sean Bean, Brittany Murphy, Famke Jansen and Oliver Platt. The disc also contains a making-of featurette, "Cinema Master Class" conversation with Gary Fleder, a producing workshop, conversation with the Kopelsons, 2 multi-angle storyboard sequences, a Brittany Murphy screen test, and trailers.

(Paramount, Rated PG-13, VHS-Priced For Rental, DVD-$29.99 SRP)

Call me loopy, but I actually found myself enjoying this Keanu Reeves flick about a desperate-for-cash gambler (Reeves) who takes a job as a Little League baseball coach. While his initial attitude towards the job his purely mercenary – he intends to ditch it as soon as he gets enough cash – his mind is eventually changed when he realizes just how much the ragtag group of kids need someone to believe in… and it's in him that they do. Look at it as a latter-day PG-13 version of The Bad News Bears. The anamorphic DVD contains an audio commentary (with director Brian Robbins and writer John Gatins), a making-of, deleted scenes, a music video, and the film's trailer.

(Paramount, Rated PG-13, DVD-$24.99 SRP)

Quite honestly, this has to be the most annoying John Cusack film I've ever seen – and it's no mean feat to get me to hate a film that John Cusack is in. Ostensibly, the flick is about the lengths one man (Cusack) goes to – including battling pirates, a hurricane, and hijackers, among other things – in order to be with his special someone. Instead, it's a middling, boring, annoying exercise in maintaining an attention span pushed to the brink. Did I mention it's written & directed by Steven Lisberger, the man behind Tron? The anamorphic DVD contains no bonus materials whatsoever. Not even an apology.

(Home Vision, Not Rated, DVD-$19.95 SRP)

If it were not for Ed Harris' superb film on the life of painter Jackson Pollock, I probably would not have given this documentary much thought. However, intrigued by Harris' portrayal of a temperamental – and misunderstood – artist, I decided to give this doc a spin. What I found was a spryly paced analysis of what made Pollock tick, filling in holes that Harris' fictionalized account had neither the time or place to incorporate.

(Columbia/Tristar, Rated PG, DVD-$19.95 SRP)

This is the first film that truly showed that Tom Hanks had any dramatic range – not a quality that was really exercised in film's such as The Money Pit). The film also contains Jackie Gleason's poignant final film appearance, playing Hanks' newly-divorced father who's facing both a forced retirement and health problems, but remains an obstinnt curmudgeon even when he desperately needs help. This flick is about the thawing of familial relationships, and also about the awkward time when the child must become the parent to his/her parents, usually at the time's that are most inopportune. The anamorphic DVD contains the film's original theatrical trailer.

(Lions Gate, Rated R, DVD-$24.98 SRP)

If you were to hear a cold pitch saying – "Let's set Shakespeare's Othello in a school with teenagers playing the roles and it revolves around basketball" – you'd probably either fall of your seat laughing, or expect the final outcome to be a miserable teen flick. No matter what your expectations might have been, director Tim Blake Nelson's final product is a wonder to behold – it's as full of resonance as Will's original. The film also spares no punches in its tale of love, jealousy, and vengeance, depicting the violence of the story with a no-holds-barred approach that leaves the audience stunned. Sadly, it was also what held up the film's release, since its premiere was unfortunately scheduled near another of the seemingly prevalent school shootings – causing its original studio to get cold feet. Eventually, it wound its way to Lions Gate who released it last fall. As a fascinating comparative tool, Lions Gate has also included a restored version of the 1922 silent film adaptation of Othello – a truly nice touch. The two-disc set also features an audio commentary with Tim Blake Nelson, an isolated music track, trailer, deleted scenes with commentary from Nelson, and analysis of the basketball scenes with Nelson and cinematographer Russell Lee Fine Fine. The silent version of "Othello" features a new score and commentary.

(Walt Disney, Rated G, DVD-$29.99 SRP)

Never, to the end of my days, will I be able to comprehend Disney's need to make badly written, poorly animated sequels to their classic films. Oh yeah, I forgot – money. Well, this latest release, a follow-up to Cinderella, doesn't fail to disappoint. I would say that there's a plot, but that would be giving it far too much credit – let's just say that it takes place after the events in the first film, and Cinderella and her wicked family all wind up on Springer. Do you believe me? Aw, shucks. The anamorphic DVD contains a featurette geared towards kids about film scoring, a storybook, activities, and a music video.

(IndieDVD, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

You gotta love the underdog. I do, which is why I was interested in partaking of this "lost" View Askew film (exec produced by Kevin Smith and Scott Mosier) which is being released by an up-and-coming DVD company, IndieDVD. For anyone unfamiliar with Drawing Flies, the best way to sum it up is Slackers meets The Blair Witch Project - wherein bickering 20-somthings find themselves being led on a mad quest deep into the woods to find Bigfoot. Yes – Bigfoot. Shot in black & white and starring Jason Lee, Carmen Lee, Jason Mewes, and Renee Humphrey, it's a surreal comedy that is well worth checking out. The DVD contains a commentary with co-directors Malcolm Ingram and Matt Gissing, a cast commentary (with Ingram, Gissing, Kevin Smith, Scott Mosier, Carmen Lee, Jason Lee, Jason Mewes, and Renee Humphrey), bloopers, outtakes, deleted scenes, and a special introduction with Smith and Mosier.

(Dimension, Rated R, DVD-$29.99 SRP)

For me, this is probably the weakest entry in Kevin Smith's series of View Askewniverse flicks – yes, even below Mallrats. Seeing as how it's the final installment in that crude little corner of filmdom (don't get me wrong – I like crude), it's somehow fitting that Smith decided to send the whole shebang into retirement with a huge farewell bash… And that's just what this is, often to its detriment. While the film is ostensibly about the cross-country journey of slackers-extraordinaire Jay & Silent Bob (Jason Mewes and Smith) in order to put a stop to the filmed adaptation of the Bluntman & Chronic comic book (based upon our titular heroes), it is instead an in-joke celebration of the films (and characters) that came before. What that doesn't make for, however, is coherent viewing, and the narrative often suffers in order to squeeze in a gag or a cameo. Or hey – maybe I'm just too uptight. Again – it's not my favorite Smith flick… but Mark Hamill's cameo is worth the price of admission. The anamorphic 2-disc DVD is packed to the gills with extras, including an audio commentary (with Smith, Mewes, and producer Scott Mosier), over an hour of deleted and extended scenes with intros, a gag reel, featurettes, the Comedy Central Behind-the-Scenes special, and music videos.

(Columbia/Tristar, Not Rated, DVD-$50.95 SRP)

The Larry Sanders Show premiered at a time when the wars being waged between the late-night network talk shows was at its fiercest – with skirmishes erupting in a field crowded not just with Jay and dave, but also with the likes of Chevy Chase, Jon Stewart, Dennis Miller, Byron Allen, and a slew of others. It was into this battlefield that Larry Sanders rode in, a satirical deconstruction of the personalities, artifice, and backstage tussles that shaped the real-life talk shows – and their hosts. It was as host Larry Sanders that Garry Shandling made his most biting satire – creating a character that was egotistical, neurotic, funny, non-confrontational, and petty… The ultimate showbiz animal. Flanked by his bumbling (but just as ego-driven) sidekick Hank Kingsley, his tough-as-nails producer Artie (Rip Torn), and the rest of the show's staff, Sanders must constantly fight off network attempts to retool his show, cancelled guests, guest hosts vying for his job, and personal problems at home. Did I mention what a brilliantly funny satire this is? Well, you can now discover it for yourself with the release of the entire 13-episode first season on DVD. As far as supplements go, the 3-disc set contains a wonderful interview with Shandling conducted by critic Tom Shales, where Shandling discusses the shows genesis, growing pains, and eventual finale.

(Columbia/Tristar, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP)

Well, I never thought I would see the day. Which day, you ask? The day when I would actually see a relatively faithful film adaptation of Madame Butterfly that didn't put me to sleep, and even – shockingly – had me riveted. Well, I have seen the day, and this is the adaptation. As filmed by Frederic Mitterand, this tale of the purchased love of a Japanese Geisha (played hauntingly by Ying Huang) by an American soldier (Richard Troxell) is an achingly beautiful world where romance is a commodity to be bought and sold. The anamorphic DVD contains an informative (if brief) making-of featurette.

(A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP)

It was a good idea… Why not go back and shoot a new version of Orson Welles adaptation of The Magnificent Ambersons – reinstating all of the material that the studio had cut out behind his back? While it may have been a great idea, as executed it's a poorly edited monotonous affair that captures none of the energy that even the truncated Welles' original had. I desperately wanted to like it – as I said, it's a great concept for a remake, but the spark just wasn't there. As an intellectual exercise, it's worth checking out if you're a fan of Welles or the original film, but beyond that it's a washout. The DVD contains a making-of featurette, an Orson Welles bio/filmography, and talent bios/filmographies.

(A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$39.95 SRP each)

If anyone doubted A&E's commitment to continuing their remarkably well-done line of classic TV on DVD, the fact that they've released two more sets of Secret Agent (aka Danger Man) should quiet those fears right quick. Patrick McGoohan's secret agent is a thinking man's spy, only using violence as a last resort. While attempts may be made to compare him to Bond, McGoohan's John Drake makes 007 look oafish by comparison – heck, there are even shades of MacGuyver. A&E continues to do a nice job on the digital restoration of their series releases – it's always nice to pop something like this in and be amazed at just how good it looks compared to how it's looked in the past. As far as supplements go, both Sets 2 & 3 contain the original US opening of the show (featuring Johnny Rivers "Secret Agent Man") and a photo gallery.

(Artisan, Rated R, VHS-Priced For Rental, DVD-$24.98 SRP)

Just when you thought the entire wretched teen slasher flick was finally dead, along limps this pitiful death knell like some wayward straggler. Honestly, that's really all that has to be said for the flick… Avoid it unless you've got money to burn or time to kill. The anamorphic DVD contains deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes materials, and the theatrical trailer.

(A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$39.95 SRP each)

Last year, A&E collected the entirety of the first season of Gerry Anderson's kitschy sci-fi adventure series. They've just released the penultimate 2-disc sets (Sets 5 & 6), which comprise the first half of Season 2. Frankly, I find the second season to be the most interesting, mainly because of a dichotomy I noticed – it is, at the same time, both the best and worst the series has to offer. While continuing to provide interesting stories (who could beat a sci-fi Adam & Eve parable?), it is quite evident that the show's budget is continually being cut. If the show had gone to a third season, I wouldn't have been surprised if they'd started doing episodes in cardboard boxes. And yes, Martin Landau's performances are about as inspiring as oak, but that's half the fun – Space: 1999 is a camp sci-fi artifact… thank goodness they're on DVD (and uncut to boot). Set 5 contains the original Year 2 promotional spots and a still gallery, while Set 6 contains the Original Year 2 Behind-the-Scenes featurette (which is a lot of fun).

(A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP)

Ever since I was a kid, I've been a huge Titanic buff. One of the first truly engrossing documentaries on the history of the voyage – and its passengers – was the one done by A&E almost a decade ago. Combining survivor recollections, solid historical research, and modern observations, it painted a vivid portrait of the disaster – including the world it took place in. Thankfully, this DVD release also comes with a more recently done documentary which explores the aftermath of the disaster, including discussions about why the events continue to fascinate us to this day. I can't recommend this release highly enough. As far as special features go, there's a timeline of events, bios of some of the passengers, and an essay on the history of the tragedy as seen in popular culture.

(New Line, Rated R, DVD-$19.98 SRP)

Even for fans of Twin Peaks, Fire Walk With Me is an odd little film. Ostensibly, this film acts as a prequel to David Lynch's off-kilter tale of murder in a small town – and all of the oddball personalities that coexist there. Fire Walk examines the days leading up to the murder of that pivotal victim, Laura Palmer. Unfortunately, what was fun in an odd, quirky way in the TV series instead become odd and disturbing in the film. What is nice about this anamorphic DVD release – which has been a long time in coming – is the unique documentary it contains. What is most unique would be the way it strings together what – in any other documentary production process – would be B-roll material. Instead, these series of off-the-cuff, awkward moments present a rather interesting look back from the cast of the film. The DVD also contains the film's theatrical trailer. Unfortunately, the DVD does not contain the scores of deleted scenes which are known to exist, or a commentary from Lynch – which I miss mainly because I'd love to know what the heck everything means.