New DVD releases include the ‘grandest film’ of all

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Thursday, 19 November 2009 16:03

Each week, the Reel Dad checks the nutritional value of a movie — new or classic — to help parents choose what to watch with their families. This week our local critic takes a look at some recent and upcoming releases on DVD for you to consider for your next movie night.

Gone With the Wind. The grandest film of all time receives first-class treatment in a stunning new DVD transfer. Never have the visuals of this David O. Selznick classic looked more stunning; never have the performances created more impact. For those of us who have seen the film countless times, it feels fresher than ever; for those in your family who have never experienced it, this is time to jump into this fascinating look at the Old South before, during and after the Civil War. Gone With the Wind remains the epic by which every other epic is measured and usually loses. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

North by Northwest. Perhaps the best dividend of the DVD movement is the royal treatment it delivers to Hollywood classics. This fabulous who-is-he and who-done-it entertainment — from Alfred Hitchcock in 1959 — radiates on screen with every image and color as brilliant as possible. The visual treatment matches the verbal sophistication in this marvelous tale of an advertising man who certainly does find himself in the wrong places and the wrong times. Cary Grant demonstrates, again, that he is the actor of the ages. This is ideal entertainment for the entire family. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

It’s a Wonderful Life. Just in time for the holidays is a new DVD edition of this Frank Capra classic from 1946. This is, for our family, required viewing at this time of year, with its meaningful story of a man who questions the value of his life. There are some serious moments that may disturb younger children; for the rest of us this is a deeply moving and real account of the meaning we all hope to leave for others. Featuring the career-best performance by James Stewart, with a supporting cast of the highest degree, all looking great on the new DVD transfer. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

Forrest Gump. “Life is like a box of chocolates,” the man says, “you never know what you’re going to get.” Part fantasy, part history lesson, part character study, this Oscar-winner from 1994 now receives a new DVD treatment in time for the holidays. Viewed today, some of the tricks in the film may feel a bit dated, but the depth of the relationships is as meaningful as ever, and the performances absolutely ring true. Seeing how strong an actor Tom Hanks can be, given the right material, only makes his recent screen work that more disappointing. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

White Christmas. This timeless musical treat emerges in beautiful form in its new DVD edition. Bing Crosby is at his casual best as an entertainer who gets an idea to put on a show to save a country inn owned by his former military commander. Rosemary Clooney and Danny Kaye are along for the fun. Best of all are the marvelous Irving Berlin songs — including, of course, the title song — and delightful production numbers. This is another holiday staple at the Schumann house. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

Howard’s End. This mesmerizing film adaptation of the E.M. Forster novel is absolutely stunning in its new DVD transfer. Emma Thompson won a well-deserved Best Actress Oscar for her delightful portrayal of a strong-willed British woman — at a time when the role of women was limited — who makes certain to bring what is right to a family filled with the temptation to do wrong. This vastly entertaining film is an excellent introduction to classic literature for readers of any age. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

Downhill Racer. In a beautiful new packaging from the Criterion Collection, this fascinating study of competitive skiing is given a first-class visual transfer. Robert Redford, just before he became a mega star, delivers perhaps his most courageous film performance as an athlete who simply doesn’t know anymore why he competes. Visually, the racing sequences are stunning, and they look spectacular on this new DVD edition. But it’s the anguish of Redford’s work that you will remember. (Also available in Blue Ray.)

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