Brick (4K UHD, KL Studio Classic)
What is it? High school noir.
Why do you watch it? I’m a little hesitant to simply call this a high school noir, but it gives the film a legitimate feel and soon blossoms into something more. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is a slightly wiser teenager than his years, but after the death of a friend, he is unable to move on. Writer/director Rian Johnson packs the film with a cast of seedy, strange, and welcome characters, as well as mysteries that don’t quite go as expected. Although Johnson moved on to bigger films, this film remains one of his best, a masterful depiction of loneliness, obsession, and apathy wrapped in a beautiful atmosphere. Kino’s new 4K may not be a revelation, but it’s still a noticeable upgrade at times, as the film plays with shadows and menacing stillness.
(Bonus: new 4K scans, commentary, deleted scenes, special features)
the best
Cross Creek (KL Studio Classics)
What is it? Women find their voice.
Why do you watch it? Mary Steenburgen is a national treasure, and Hollywood used to give her leading roles. Here, she plays real-life author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, a woman in her late twenties who, fed up with the constraints imposed on her by society, decides to leave everything behind and live her life in the Florida outback. There she finds wonder, friendship, and inspiration. It’s a sweet and charming film supported by great lead performances. Add in Peter Coyote, Rip Torn, and some beautiful scenery, and you’ve got a movie you’ll want to watch again and share with your family.
(Bonus: special feature, commentary)
rest
Captain Planet and the Planeteers: The Complete Franchise
What is it? Delicious food gathered!
Why do you watch it? Oh no, Captain Planet, no. But neither am I. The character is an interplanetary being summoned by five children who are trying to clean up the Earth, and the children watching learn about the dangers of pollution and the like, and get out and do the right thing. It’s an idea. It features a group of bad guys who must learn a lesson about abusing Mother Nature, and several guest stars with familiar voices, including Meg Ryan and Martin Sheen. Ultimately, it’s as light and formulaic as most children’s cartoons, but with some preachy aspects that sometimes get in the way of the fun. This set includes both the original cartoon and the new adventures of Captain Planet.
(Bonus: None)
Cowboys & Aliens (4K UHD, KL Studio Classic)
What is it? A Western movie featuring aliens!
Why do you watch it? Jon Favreau’s ambitious film adaptation of the popular comic book has probably seen better days than you remember, even if it hasn’t quite reached that level of greatness yet. That said, it’s hard not to have fun as Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford embark on a genre mash that pits six archers and horses against alien technology. Contrast is a good time, and it’s helped by a supporting cast that includes great faces like Walton Goggins, Keith Carradine, Clancy Brown, Paul Dano, and Sam Rockwell. It’s probably overstayed its welcome a bit, and the expanded version even more so, but you can’t beat the intent and the small thrills.
(Bonus: new 4K scans, commentary, interviews, special features, theatrical and extended cuts)
Garbo Talk (KL Studio Classic)
What is it? A dying woman has only one thing left on her to-do list.
Why do you watch it? The great Sidney Lumet directed this dramatic comedy, and while I’m not sure it’s a subject that suits his particular skills, the result is a great example of how we can improve our lives and families. It’s an attractive expression of your priorities. Anne Bancroft headlines alongside Ron Silver, Carrie Fisher and Katherine Hicks, all of whom do a good job. There are some laughs and fun moments, but the buildup doesn’t give you the payoff you’d expect. It’s partially by design, but that doesn’t mean it’s an improvement.
(Bonus: Explanation)
Also appearing this week:
Babylon Berlin: Season 4, The Boy in the Woods, The Devil’s Pool (4K UHD, Criterion), A Nightmare on Elm Street (4K UHD), Summer with Carmen, Thanksgiving (4K UHD), To Catch a Thief (4K UHD)
