New Releases for April 29th, 20008 (Full List)
Allan Quatermain and the Temple of Skulls He became the inspiration for many of the 20th century's greatest action heroes -- as well the model for the iconic character Indiana Jones. He is Allan Quatermain, an adventurer and hunter who makes the perilous lands of Africa his home. Filmed on location in South Africa, this epic adaptation of H. Rider Haggard's classic tome King Solomon's Mines stars Sean Cameron Michael as the legendary Quatermain.
Dead Man's Bounty A mysterious loner (Karel Roden) rides into a small town carrying the body of a sought-after outlaw (Val Kilmer is the corpse). But after he gambles his bounty away in a card game with the sheriff (Boguslaw Linda), he must devise a scheme to reclaim the dead man. Katarzyna Figura co-stars as a tough barmaid in Polish writer-director Piotr Uklanski's inventive and bloody Western, which both spoofs and pays tribute to the spaghetti Western genre.
Diamond Dogs In debt to the Mongolian mob, maverick ex-Army officer Xander Ronson (Dolph Lundgren) reluctantly agrees to guide a team of American fortune hunters on a quest to find the legendary Tangka tapestry in this martial arts action thriller. Obstacles natural and supernatural stand in the team's way -- from a competing gang of Russian mercenaries to an ancient curse rumored to protect the relic.
Hero Wanted In order to impress a lovely bank teller, small-town trash collector Liam Case (Cuba Gooding Jr.) stages a robbery so he can emerge as the hero. But the simple plan yields deadly consequences, and Case must seek vengeance against the cohorts who betrayed him. Unfortunately, Detective Terry Subcott suspects Case as the perpetrator of a string of murders in this twisty action drama, co-starring Norman Reedus as Case's conflicted pal and co-worker.
Country Remedy Hoping to land his dream job at a Chicago hospital, the recently widowed Dr. Evan Gibbs (Cameron Bancroft) agrees to spend the summer setting up a clinic in the North Carolina mountains. But he and his 10-year-old son (Aidan Mitchell) have a tough time winning over the locals. This bighearted family film features a colorful cast of small-town characters including Bellamy Young as the mayor and Mickey Jones as an often inebriated handyman.
Moondance Alexander When plucky teen Moondance (Kay Panabaker) finds a lost pony named Checkers, she immediately feels a bond with him. Convinced that he's a champion jumper, Moondance persuades Checkers' owner (Don Johnson) into training the two of them for the Bow Valley Classic. Based on a true story, this touching family drama from director and co-writer Michael Damian also stars James Best and Lori Loughlin.
Saludos Amigos / Three Caballeros Classic Disney cartoons take on a spicy Spanish flavor in this pair of animated features set south of the border. The travelogue Saludos Amigos (1943) finds Donald Duck, Goofy and a parrot named Jose Carioca exploring Lake Titicaca, the Andes mountains, the Argentine pampas and Rio de Janeiro. Then, in The Three Caballeros (1945), Donald Duck serves as a tour guide for a virtual trek through Latin and South America.
William Wegman: The Hardly Boys in Hardly Gold Photographer William Wegman pays homage to the Hardy Boys with this tale of two sleuthing Weimaraners. The Hardly brothers are enjoying a summer at the family house in Maine when their friend Chip's Aunt Gladiola goes missing. Now, the boys find themselves in a sinister plot involving a secret garnet mine and the town's water supply. Starring Battina, Crooky, Chundo and Fay Ray, this charming tale premiered at the 1996 Sundance Film Festival.
Get Outta Town Reformed thief Kelly Olson (Doug Wilson) returns to Los Angeles after his brother is killed. But the local cops aren't convinced he's gone straight and want to force him out of town in this classic crime drama. As he searches for his brother's killer, Kelly finds that even his own mother (Beppie De Vries) has turned against him. But with the support of his girlfriend, Jill (Jeanne Baird), he doesn't give up hope.
Johnny Legend Presents: Blonde Mania! In this homage to all things big, bad, bold, buxom and blond, bombshells Jayne Mansfield and Marilyn Monroe take center stage with rare footage of their appearances on "The Jack Benny Show" well as film clips, commercials and classic movie trailers. See Mansfield's eye-popping appearance at the Golden Globes and the bonus featurette "Blondes Prefer Gentlemen," a salute to platinum blond B-movie queens of yesteryear.
The Fall of the Roman Empire: Deluxe Edition Director Anthony Mann's Academy Award-nominated, epic drama brings to life the glory, grandeur and greed of the crumbling Roman civilization amid a love story for the ages. Faithful Roman soldier Livius (Stephen Boyd) follows the principles of aging Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Alec Guinness), hoping to create a peaceful republic. But Livius' dreams and plans appear to be dashed when the corrupt Commodus (Christopher Plummer) ascends the throne.
The Torture Chamber of Dr. Sadism / Death Smiles on a Murderer In this pair of grisly cult shockers a sadistic count is punished for his sins, only to rise from the grave seeking revenge; and a series of gory murders surrounds a beautiful amnesia victim. Christopher Lee stars as the titular character in The Torture Chamber of Dr. Sadism, based on Edgar Allan Poe's "The Pit and the Pendulum." Ewa Aulin and Klaus Kinski star in director Joe D'Amato's sex and blood extravaganza, Death Smiles on a Murderer.
27 Dresses Tired of being a perpetual bridesmaid after helping 27 friends tie the knot, altruistic Jane (Katherine Heigl) finds herself facing her worst nightmare as her younger sister (Malin Akerman) announces her engagement to the man Jane secretly adores. But when Jane meets the charming Kevin (James Marsden), will she beat her sibling to the altar? Edward Burns and Judy Greer also star in this breezy romantic comedy from director Anne Fletcher.
Ain't Misbehavin' In wartime London, smooth-talking draft dodger Eric Trapp (Robson Green) and stalwart British pilot Eddie Wallis (Jerome Flynn) have only one thing in common: they both play in the same band. But a series of skirmishes with gangsters, spies and bombers is about to change all that. Joining forces for the greater good, the two vow to defend England … using all the lying and cheating means at their disposal in this fast-paced comedy drama.
Back in Business When the British Space Agency creates a revolutionary new space buggy, a team of con artists reunites to take a crack at the ultimate scam in this family-friendly comedy. Will Spencer (Martin Kemp) and his partner in crime, Tom Marks (Chris Barrie), are joined by Will's niece and Tom's screwball son in a foolproof plan to sell the technology to international buyers. Only one thing stands in their way: Scotland Yard's dopiest detective!
Pool Party Matt (Justin T. Bowler) is convinced he can win his ex-girlfriend (Mikki Padilla) back. The only catch? He'll have to pass the state bar exam, a test he's failed two times already. And a house-sitting gig for his imbalanced boss (David Lawrence) certainly won't help with his studies. But the fact that his boss's mischievous kids (Sarah Horvath and Kenzo Lee) are planning a pool party is going to be a major problem.
The Kung Fu Mummy It's a comedy of time-bending proportions when a mummy from ancient Peru is set loose on the streets of modern-day Hollywood with $200 million in rare jewels stuffed inside of him. Of course, it doesn't take long for every crook in town to catch wind of the mummy's hidden riches, setting off a chain reaction of trickery and tomfoolery. Director Randy Morgan also wrote the screenplay for this blend of experimental comedy and B-movie camp.
The Weekend Directed by Michael Todd Kuskin, this rollicking indie comedy chronicles the high-spirited fun at a wild weekend shindig thrown by well-heeled high schooler Jacob Meyers (Kristian Kordula). Hormones rage out of control as Benjamin (Beau Allulli) tries to bed his reluctant girlfriend, Marty summons his courage to pursue his dream girl (Elizabeth G. Wilson), and the geeks turn up looking to change their image.
Bernard and Doris Susan Sarandon and Ralph Fiennes star in this fascinating tale inspired by the life of billionaire heiress Doris Duke, which speculates on the relationship between Duke and her gay butler, Bernard Lafferty, whom she left in charge of her fortune. Newly sober, Lafferty (Fiennes) finds domestic work with the demanding and eccentric Duke (Sarandon). And in six short years, the two opposites forge a bond deeper than anyone would comprehend.
Cold December Dissatisfied with his 9-to-5 job and his predictable suburban existence, 20-something Chicagoan Chris Payton (Chris Fountain) lurches into a life crisis that threatens to break up his marriage in this drama about the decision to take charge or give up. Chris's growing frustration eventually boils over, creating major friction with his wife. With his marriage in serious jeopardy, Chris must come to terms with what he wants for his future.
Disraeli Ian McShane stars in this Emmy-nominated BBC miniseries tracing the rise of Benjamin Disraeli, the famed 19th-century British politician who helped create the Conservative Party and went on to serve two terms as England's prime minister. Despite criticism that he was, among other things, a "fop," a "dandy" and a "rake," Disraeli would become one of the greatest prime minister's in Britain's history -- and also one of its most scandalous.
Fodor's Hamlet Visionary commercial filmmaker Alexander Fodor transforms Shakespeare's classic with this bold experiment that preserves the original text while reimagining characters and subtext. Hamlet (Wilson Belchambers) is physically threatened by his father's ghost (James Frail), drug addiction fuels Ophelia's (Tallulah Sheffield) madness and Horatio and Polonius have become the distaff Horatia (Katie Reddin-Clancy) and Polonia (Lydia Piechowiak).
Hip-Hop Task Force: Studio: Vol. 2 After rapper Elliot Jones is killed in Los Angeles, three cops from the elite federal Hip-Hop Task Force arrive to investigate. Looking deep into the underbelly of the L.A. music world, they uncover some unpleasant truths about the industry. The rampant corruption they unearth clearly played a role in the death, but it's hard to make a case when nobody's talking. Karimah Westbrook, Geonard Butler and James Jones star.
How She Move The life of a high school girl takes a turn for the worse after her sister dies from drug-related problems. She's removed from the comfort and privilege of her private school and forced to return to her old stomping grounds, a dangerous inner-city neighborhood. Struggling to adjust to the changes in her life, she eventually finds unexpected happiness by renewing her passion for step dancing.
Middletown A preacher takes zealotry to new levels -- and faces the wrath of his brother -- when he returns to his vice-ridden hometown in this thriller. The Rev. Gabriel Hunter (Matthew Macfadyen) is stunned to find the village of Middletown awash in sin; but when he begins a mission to save the town, he's shocked to find opposition in his own brother (Daniel Mays), sending his soul-saving efforts into overdrive and setting up an explosive confrontation.
Night of the Fox A pair of secret agents (George Peppard and Deborah Raffin) working for the Allied forces are tasked with finding an American colonel (David Birney) who's drifted behind enemy lines with sensitive information about the D-Day invasion before the Germans can shake it out of him. Michael York and Oscar winner John Mills (Ryan's Daughter) also star in this made-for-television drama based on the novel by Jack Higgins.
Pearl Diver Brought together by a tragic accident, sisters Hannah (Joey Honsa) and Marian (Amy Jean Johnson) try to rebuild their relationship while coming to terms with their Mennonite mother's mysterious murder some 20 years earlier. When Hannah returns to the farming community to help Marian care for her injured daughter, the painful present situation causes the sisters to finally confront their mother's death … and all that it left behind.
Wait Up Harriet In the wake of his wife's sudden death, a grieving firefighter nearly gives up on living. But with the arrival of his wife's spiritual mentor and the encouragement of his own 12-year-old son, he begins to believe in love again. His progress is thrown off track, however, when he discovers some previously unknown truths about his wife's past. Filmmaker Angus Benfield also stars in this independent drama he co-directed with Hanna Eichler.
Boardinghouse After inheriting a large house, Jim Royce (John Wintergate) converts the place into a boarding house that offers low rent to beautiful young women. Surrounded by bikini-clad tenants, Jim is thrilled with his life until an unknown monster begins killing the girls. Often terrorizing them at the pool or in the shower, this supernatural murderer stabs, chops and gouges its victims without mercy. Can Joe's telekinetic powers help him find the killer?
Don't Go in the Woods Alone Campy horror at its finest, this 1982 B movie follows four young backpackers, led by Peter (Jack McClelland), as they're stalked through the wilderness by a deranged, maniacal backwoods killer (played by Tom Drury). In the fine tradition of the gory slasher movies of the 1970s and '80s, this film makes no bones about its simple, bloodthirsty style. Angie Brown, Mary Gail Artz and James P. Hayden co-star as the other fateful campers on the run.
Headless Horseman College friends en route to a party find themselves stuck in the middle of nowhere when they take a wrong turn and land in the uncharted town of Wormwood. As if that weren't weird enough, they're also being chased by a killer who's lost his head. According to local legend, an insane man was decapitated 100 years ago on Halloween, and now, he's back to claim the heads of seven strangers -- as he's done every seven years since.
In the Blood Finally ready to explore his attraction to men, college jock Cassidy (Tyler Hanes) goes out with sexy Victor (Carlos Alberto Valencia). But in the middle of their foreplay, he has a disturbing vision of his sister's death, which may be linked to the recent murders on campus. A serial killer is on the loose, and the only way for Cassidy to have more psychic visions to help catch the murderer is to embrace his homosexuality completely.
Knock, Knock When somebody starts picking off youngsters at Tyson High School -- in gruesome ways linked to their parents' vocations -- tosspot detective Mike Soto (Antonio Mastrantonio) and his pretty partner, Billie Vega (Kim Taggart), are on the case. The school's dim-witted, lecherous janitor (Sal Sirchia) soon becomes a suspect, but all is not what it seems this gory spine-chiller also starring Joli Julianna, Lou Savarese and wrestler Stephanie Finochio.
Schizo A face from the past shatters a young figure skater's marital bliss in director Pete Walker's grisly shocker. Samantha Gray (Lynne Frederick) is ecstatic about her upcoming wedding … until an unwelcome guest shows up to begin a crusade of terror: her mother's ex-lover (Jack Watson), who killed Samantha's mom 15 years ago as she watched. With Samantha's friends getting picked off one by one, can she stop the madman before becoming the next victim?
Berkeley In order to avoid the draft during the turbulent 1960s, Ben Sweet (Nick Roth) enrolls at UC Berkeley, where his talent for playing the guitar coupled with an altruistic naïveté lead him down the path of free love, drugs and political activism. Searching for his place in the world, Ben tries to sort out his complicated romantic entanglements, as well as make peace with the conservative father who resisted his artistic pursuits.
Slant: Asian American Short Films: Vol. 1 Each year, the Aurora Picture Show hosts Slant, a festival of short films by leading Asian-American filmmakers. This collection features eight of the festival's best films, as chosen by curator Melissa Hung, from its 2000 inception. Selections include "Profiles in Science" by Wes Kim, "Lilo and Me" by Kip Fulbeck, "How to Do the Asian Squat" by Daniel Hsia, "I Pie (A Love Story)" by Nobu Adilman and "A Little Bit Different" by Lynn Okimura.
The Guatemalan Handshake A man's disappearance in the wake of a widespread blackout ignites a chain reaction of oddball events in this award-winning independent feature from writer-director Todd Rohal. No one's sure what happened to derby driver Donald Turnupseed (Will Oldham), but his absence has had a definite effect on those around him, including his pregnant girlfriend (Sheila Scullin), his father (Ken Byrnes) and his best friend, Turkeylegs (Katy Haywood).
The Living End Auteur Gregg Araki delivers a remastered edition of his breakthrough film. Jon (Craig Gilmore), who's just been diagnosed with AIDS, reluctantly opens his home to a similarly afflicted homicidal drifter named Luke (Mike Dytri). When Luke kills a cop, the two elude the authorities on a road trip through the American West. But as the journey progresses, Jon begins to wonder if Luke's "do it all, for tomorrow we die" attitude is right for him.
Harlequin Romance Series: Diamond Girl For years, plain paralegal Claire Barnard (Joely Collins) has been secretly in love with her boss, attorney Denny Montana (Kevin Otto), who never gives her a second look. But things change when Denny's brother Regan (Jonathan Cake) arrives to facilitate the sale of the family vineyard. Transforming Claire into a beauty, Regan asks her to tempt Denny away from his domineering girlfriend. But when Regan falls for Claire, things get complicated.
Harlequin Romance Series: Loving Evangeline After his brother dies in a boating accident, wealthy software company exec Robert Cannon (Nick Mancuso) returns to his small coastal hometown to try to discover the facts about the tragic death. He soon discovers that marina owner Evie Shaw (Kelly Rowan) has suspicions about the "accident," and things get complicated as he begins to fall for her. Shari Belafonte co-stars in this romantic drama.
Rescued Stranded on an island after a plane crash, Megan Hughes (Jaci Twiss) finds herself caught in a love triangle with her co-workers, the sincere Mormon convert Chris Russell (Shea Potter) and the arrogant nonbeliever Mark Taylor (Matthew Resse). Passions and jealousies flare, but slowly Megan starts learning important lessons about faith and believing in herself in this gripping tale of love and spirituality.
The Golden Compass After overhearing a shocking secret, precocious orphan Lyra Belacqua (Dakota Blue Richards) trades her carefree existence roaming the halls of Jordan College for an otherworldly adventure in the far North, unaware that it's part of her destiny. Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig and Sam Elliott co-star in this fantasy-laden family adventure based on the first book of the Philip Pullman trilogy His Dark Materials.
Harm's Way After escaping from an abusive home, Mavis and her daughter Victoria (Hannah Lochner) take refuge at a remote women's shelter run by Bea (Kathleen Quinlan). But as the seemingly compassionate Bea befriends Victoria, the girl begins to turn against her mother. Now, Mavis finds herself in a fight for her life in this tense thriller directed by Melanie Orr. Ingrid Kavelaars and David Sparrow co-star.
Buso Renkin This anime series follows teen Kazuki Muto, who attempts to save -- and is later brought back to life by -- Tokiko Tsumura, a pretty damsel under attack from a beast known as a homunculus. But as it happens, she's part of an organization sworn to safeguard humanity from the homunculi, and after she implants Kazuki with a device that gives him the power to fight them, he and Tokiko join forces to vanquish the evil figure controlling the creatures.
Champion Joe While roaming the slums of Tokyo, fugitive orphan Joe Yabuki meets ex-boxer Danpei, who sees potential in the tough young kid and, through rigorous training, transforms him into a champion. The training will come in handy, too, when Joe must face off against his archrival, Tohru Rikiishi. Based on Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba's manga classic, this 1980 treat pioneered the genre of sports anime.
Kujibiki Unbalance This comic anime series centers on the ups and downs of orphaned Chihiro Enomoto and his fellow freshman at Rikkyoin High School, who spend the school year campaigning for student government. Besides grappling with the election, Chihiro must deal with a smorgasbord of other issues, which includes love at first sight and a reunion with his childhood gal pal Ritsuko -- the reigning student council president -- who's become enamored of him.
A Generation Apart Filmmaker Jack Fisher recounts the story of his parents' miraculous survival from Nazi death camps and examines the intergenerational conflicts that inevitably grew between the parents and their progeny. The 1984 documentary, which originally aired on PBS, explores the wounds of the Holocaust with striking candor and poignancy. Bonus features include a commentary with the director and his father, as well a newly filmed epilogue.
Che Guevara: Hasta la Victoria Siempre The story of Ernesto Guevara de la Serna is chronicled through historic footage in this documentary, which follows the revolutionary from his early days in South and Central America to his involvement in the Cuban revolution and beyond. After participating in the Congolese guerilla war, the elusive Guevara headed to Bolivia in the late 1960s to foment an uprising. In Bolivia, Guevara was captured by a Special Forces unit and executed.
Furtwangler's Love Directed by Jan Schmidt-Garre, this affecting documentary profiles renowned Berlin Philharmonic maestro Wilhelm Furtwängler, whose unsurpassed artistry was wrought in the pressure cooker of World War II. Featuring intimate interviews, rehearsal footage and classical music excerpts such as Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony no. 7 in A Major, the film delves into Furtwängler's many passions: his music, composing and his love for his wife, Elisabeth.
Great Writers: William Faulkner Explore the life and works of one of America's greatest writers with this absorbing program on William Faulkner. Famous for his depiction of the growing pains of the South in his many novels, Faulkner received the Nobel Prize in literature in 1949. Expert commentary, archival documents and rare interviews shed light on the celebrated author, whose major works include The Sound and the Fury, As I Lay Dying, Light in August and Absalom, Absalom.
Harrier Discover the revolutionary Harrier fighter plane, the world's first vertical/short take-off and landing military aircraft, in this fascinating documentary that shows its origins and combat use by the U.S. Marine Corps, British navy and others. Footage of the Harrier in NATO exercises and weapon delivery highlight the amazing helicopter-like maneuvering capabilities of this unique fighter aircraft.
Joseph Campbell: Mythos II Shortly before his death in 1987, mythology scholar Joseph Campbell embarked on a lecture tour that served as a summation of his life's work. This engaging series is an in-depth primer into mankind's narrative and social history. Campbell discusses the roots of Asian mythology, Buddhism and the path of enlightenment as viewed in the East and West, the journey into the afterlife and the power of yoga. Susan Sarandon hosts the program.
King Corn In Aaron Woolf's thought-provoking documentary, friends Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis move back to America's Corn Belt to plant an acre of the nation's most-grown and most-subsidized grain in an attempt to follow their crop into the U.S. food supply. What they discover about genetically modified seeds, powerful herbicides and the realities of modern farming calls into question government subsidies, our fast-food lifestyle and the quality of our food.
Mahatma Gandhi: The Life and Times of a Modern Legend Through peaceful civil disobedience, Mahatma Gandhi fought to alleviate poverty, liberate women, end discrimination and free India from British rule. This documentary explores Gandhi's impressive life and his important message of nonviolence. Gandhi's tremendous leadership and noble acts of passive resistance helped India achieve its independence in 1947, one year before he was tragically assassinated.
Nanking Co-directors Bill Guttentag and Dan Sturman helm this Sundance selection chronicling the story of "the Rape of Nanking," a World War II-era tragedy in which more than 200,000 Chinese citizens were murdered and tens of thousands were raped at the hands of Japanese soldiers. Woody Harrelson, Mariel Hemingway and Stephen Dorff portray some of the Westerners who rose to the occasion with quiet acts of heroism.
Secrets of the Parthenon: Nova A team of researchers, architects and engineers investigates the improbable construction of Greece's wondrous temple, the Parthenon -- erected without any building plans or blueprints in the shockingly fast time frame of eight or nine years. This absorbing "Nova" special revisits the halcyon days of ancient Greece, where a group of more than 200 masons brought their craftsmanship to bear on this architectural miracle.
Shakespeare's Stratford This engaging travelogue journeys to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of England's most famous playwright, for a unique tour of all things Shakespeare. Visit the legendary sites that inspired the Bard while hearing intriguing tales of his life. "I like this place and willingly could waste my time in it," Shakespeare wrote in "As You Like It." He could just as easily have been talking about his charming hometown.
The British Empire in Color Weaving rare color footage, eyewitness accounts and interviews, this documentary crafts an unbiased portrait of the British Empire. Milestones such as the partitioning of India, the creation of the state of Israel, the Suez crisis, black nationalism in Africa and the 1997 handover of Hong Kong are presented from multiple viewpoints, revealing Britain's role in spreading education, law and democracy, as well as racism and cultural bigotry.
The First World War: 1914-1918 Vintage footage and expert commentary illuminate this documentary on the history and impact of World War I, the so-called "war to end all wars." While innovations such as aircraft, tanks and telecommunications changed the face of warfare on the battlefield, industrial progress made significant changes on the home front. Historians reveal how these and social developments made the era notable for more than the conflict alone.
The True Story of Charlie Wilson's War Charlie Wilson was a Texas congressman who became part of an unbelievable stunt in which he helped funnel more than $300 million into a covert effort to fund Afghanistan's war against the Soviet Union. Going beyond the Hollywood dramatization Charlie Wilson's War, this eye-opening film details the whole shocking story of Wilson's involvement in the scheme, along with CIA agent Gust Avrakotos and socialite Joanne Herring.
Tornado In this fascinating hourlong documentary, viewers will see the Panavia Tornado -- a lightning-fast fighter jet of immense power jammed inside a compact design -- as it flashes across the sky in action. Jointly developed during the 1970s by the British, the Germans and the Italians, the fearsome twin-engine aircraft showed off its muscle during the Persian Gulf War. The video also includes information about the Tornado's evolution.
God-Links Struggling New York actors Bud (Josh Casaubon) and Holly (Emily Fitzgerald) meet and hit it off. She's watched over by Earl (Joseph Tudisco), a guardian angel who's concerned that her new love doesn't seem to have an angel of his own. When Earl discovers the identity of Bud's missing angel, Yvette (Katherine Brecka), it rekindles a romance in the two guardians, but it forces Bud to face a devastating memory he's repressed his entire life.
Overcome With his repeated acts of rebellion, headstrong teenager Colton is making life miserable for everyone who loves him, but when an accident forces him to reevaluate his lifestyle, he decides to fight an uphill battle for forgiveness and redemption. Aaron U. Brown and Jaycee Lynn head the cast in this family drama, a contemporary Christian allegory based on the New Testament story of Paul's conversion.
Anna Getty's Pre & Post Natal Yoga Workout Heiress, actress and yoga teacher Anna Getty helps expectant and new moms achieve that elusive balance of work, play and parenting -- which she terms PureStyle Living -- in these two comprehensive workouts. The prenatal program offers a regimen designed to help expectant mothers achieve a peaceful, healthy birth, both for child and parent. The postnatal side offers solutions to meeting the physical and emotional challenges of new motherhood.
Blood, Sweat & Teeth The most intimidating bloodthirsty warriors of cage fighting battle it out in this collection of extreme matches. Front-row fans should be warned: The hard-hitting, take-no-prisoners action doesn't stop even when teeth go flying. Packed with some of the most intense cage fights ever filmed, this carnival of carnage captures all of the incredible moves, debilitating knockouts and blood-and-sweat drama of the sport.
Rage in the Cage Filmed near New Orleans, this sequel to 1999's "Blood, Sweat & Teeth" follows some of the explosive extreme sport's rising stars, interweaving exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, scads of gladiatorial action and more. You'll have the best seat in the house as tough young warriors from the world of mixed martial arts duke it out in a succession of no-holds-barred battles inside the octagon.
Shape Up with David Howard Keeping physically fit is all part of the job for world-famous ballet instructor David Howard. In this unique workout, exercisers of all levels will benefit from Howard's energizing combination of strength and agility training. In addition to the results-driven exercises, the program features top Broadway dancers demonstrating the techniques in routines set to an upbeat original score by composer Douglas Corbin.
Strip to It: Core Moves & Fantasies Turn up the heat with this sizzling instructional program on the art of stripping. Joined by two students, dance teacher Angi Carlston leads you through 22 core moves, plus transitional, specialty and advanced moves. Each easy-to-learn step is shown from multiple angles to make sure you're getting it right. When the lesson's over, choose from a host of music and video accompaniments to customize your performance -- and captivate your audience.
TNA Wrestling: Against All Odds 2008 Total Nonstop Action superstars such as Kurt Angle, Booker T, Christian Cage, AJ Styles and Samoa Joe enter the ring for a series of all-out brawls, and you'll have a front-row seat to see some of the world's best professional wrestlers duke it out. Other body slammers on the card include Abyss, "Black Machismo" Jay Lethal, Tomko, Eric Young, Scott Steiner, Kevin Nash, Gail Kim and "Cowboy" James Storm.
The Arizona Diamondbacks: 2001 World Series After only four years of playing together as a team, the upstart Arizona Diamondbacks managed to defeat the veteran New York Yankees in a stunning seven-game World Series, just weeks after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. Highlights in this complete collection of games include memorable play from team MVPs Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling, as well as Luis Gonzalez's series-winning ninth-inning hit.
Track & Field: Conditioning Learn the techniques and establish the fundamentals needed for track and field skill development in this conditioning program that features former University of Oregon men's track and field coach and throwing events expert Stewart Togher. Using a variety of drills proven to boost athletic performance, this program, part of the Track & Field training series, is designed for both coaches and athletes.
Track & Field: Discus & Hammer Build your skills and learn winning techniques with this training program that emphasizes the fundamentals of discus and hammer throw, hosted by track and field throwing events expert Stewart Togher. Using a variety of drills proven to boost athletic performance, this training series taps the expertise of former members of the University of Oregon coaching staff and is designed for both coaches and athletes.
Track & Field: Long Jump & High Jump Build your skills and learn winning techniques with this training program that emphasizes the fundamentals of long jump and high jump, hosted by John Gillespie, a leading authority and coach of the triple jump. Using a variety of drills proven to boost athletic performance, this training series taps the expertise of former members of the University of Oregon coaching staff and is designed for both coaches and athletes.
Track & Field: Middle Distance, Hurdles & Sprints Accomplished coaches Bill Dellinger and John Gillespie and former Pac-10 sprint champion George Walcott emphasize fundamentals and demonstrate winning track and field techniques in this informative training program designed for coaches and athletes. Part of the Track & Field series, the presentation features a variety of drills proven to boost athletic performance and establish a solid foundation for further skill development.
Track & Field: Triple Jump & Pole Vault Track and field coaches Dan West and John Gillespie emphasize training fundamentals, demonstrate winning techniques and analyze the skills of triple jump and pole vault competitors in this instructional program designed for both coaches and athletes. Part of the Track & Field series, the presentation features a variety of drills proven to boost athletic performance and establish a solid foundation for further development.
UFC 80: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Rapid Fire Nine furious fights are in store for mixed martial arts fans with this action extravaganza held in Newcastle, England. Highlights include B.J. Penn going for the lightweight title against Joe Stevenson and Gabriel Gonzaga taking on Fabricio Werdum. In other thrilling matches, Marcus Davis faces off against Jess Liaudin, and Paul Taylor battles Paul Kelly.
WWE: Twist of Fate: The Matt & Jeff Hardy Story Matt and Jeff Hardy have created a sensation both in and out of the pro wrestling ring. This hard-hitting profile tells the brothers' full story, from childhood bouts with each other to their meteoric rise to success with WWE. Fans will get not only the personal side of their ascent, but also plenty of thrilling match footage showcasing how the siblings reached the top of their sport.
A Touch of Frost: Season 13 A dead man found in a couple's bed. A murdered Vietnamese man. A rare crocodile. What do these three cases have in common? They're all tugging at the shrewd mind of maverick detective Jack Frost (David Jason). As the ace sleuth works his way toward uncovering an unusual crime ring, he also works to lock up a former rival and relax with his latest lover in this 13th season of the hit British series.
Beverly Hills, 90210: Season 4 With their high school years behind them, the young adults of 90210 face more serious issues than unrequited crushes and finding a prom date in the fourth season of the popular drama set in tony Beverly Hills. This season, Steve, Brandon, Kelly and Donna join the Greek system; a carjacking scares Dylan into buying a gun; Stuart proposes to Brenda; Andrea learns she's pregnant; and Brandon meets President Clinton.
Cheers: Season 9 Laughter, camaraderie and beer continue to flow at the Boston bar filled with quirky regulars in the ninth season of the long-running sitcom, especially now that Sam has ownership of the establishment again. Developments this season include Rebecca's plan to marry jailbird Robin Colcord, an ongoing feud between the bar folks and the new owner of the second floor restaurant, and Carla's quest to be crowned Miss Boston Barmaid.
Dark Shadows: The Beginning: Collection 4 The classic Gothic soap opera gathers momentum in this collection of episodes that finds Victoria (Alexandra Isles) abducted by Matthew Morgan (George Mitchell) and Roger (Louis Edmonds) reeling from a surprising revelation about his wife. These rare, early episodes establish the strange supernatural tone of the series, setting the stage for the arrival of the show's most popular character, the vampire Barnabas Collins.
Human Weapon: Season 1 Mixed martial arts fighter Jason Chambers and former NFL star Bill Duff travel the globe in this A&E series to study new forms of self-defense, getting just one week to ready their skills for a dangerous fight with a "human weapon." The show's first season finds Jason and Bill learning the finer points of kung fu, karate, judo, muay Thai, Israeli krav maga, Marine Corps martial arts, eskrima stick fighting and more.
Intelligence: Season 1 Packed with intrigue, duplicity and tension, this edgy Canadian crime drama delves into the shadowy world of the Vancouver syndicate and the cops who keep it under surveillance. When a biker gang threatens his territory, businessman -- and mob kingpin -- Jimmy Reardon (Ian Tracey) becomes a stool pigeon for Organized Crime Unit director Mary Spalding (Klea Scott) … in exchange for her turning a blind eye to his "extracurricular" activities.
Jacob & Joshua: Nemesis Rising This reality series from Logo (the first TV network for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community) follows twins Jacob and Joshua Miller -- opposites personally but a perfect team onstage -- as they pursue success in the music business. Their quest takes them from their Montana home to Los Angeles, where their record label promotes them as openly gay. Problem is, some of the duo's friends and family members don't know the truth.
Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is: Season 2 Get a look inside Grammy-nominated R&B singer Keyshia Cole's real life as she continues to deal with the conflicts that arise in her newly reestablished relationships with her sister and her ex-con mother in the second season of this reality show. The whole family moves to Atlanta, and Cole begins to record her second album, "Just Like You." Meanwhile, she keeps working on establishing healthy ties with her family members.
Paranormal State: Season 1 When things go bump in the night, you can't really call the Ghostbusters. But you could call the student-run Paranormal Research Society at Penn State University to figure out whether your haunting is real or just a hoax. Over the course of this A&E series' first season, team leader Ryan Buell and his crew of part-time paranormal investigators meet with a family being stalked by a shape-shifter and a woman whose dog senses a demonic spirit.
Sabrina, the Teenage Witch: The Complete Animated Series Featuring celebrity voices Larry Storch, Howard Morris and Mel Blanc as Salem the impish cat, this 1971 animated series follows saucy teen witch Sabrina. When she's not facing the challenges of Riverdale High School or honing her skills under the tutelage of her sorceress aunts Hilda and Zelda, Sabrina -- accompanied by her warlock cousin Ambrose -- finds herself in the midst of countless comical adventures.
The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Vol. 3 Swing into action with history's greatest hero in seven feature-length episodes of the Emmy Award-winning series. Young Indy (Sean Patrick Flanery) travels the world in search of adventure, encountering the 20th century's most influential people. He witnesses the birth of the blues, crosses paths with Al Capone, rubs elbows with the stars in Hollywood and visits Thomas Edison's lab. Anne Heche, Jeffrey Wright and Harrison Ford guest star.
The Big Bow Wow In bustling Dublin, six 20-something neighbors hang out at the Big Bow Wow, a dance club where they can catch up and chill out. This stylish TV drama follows the complicated personal and professional lives of the wildly disparate group. A recent arrival to Dublin, Leah (Melanie Clark Pullen) is learning how to live with her new flatmates, and Eric (Chris McQuarry) is adjusting to being openly gay.
The Big Gay Sketch Show: Season 1 Eight talented comedians take aim at pop culture, social attitudes, politics and more in this original series from LOGO, television's first gay network. The premiere season of the Rosie O'Donnell-produced show features a mother playing matchmaker for her gay son; a gay werewolf; the hard-hitting "Tranny 911" and "Afromations with Lamont"; and dim-witted Chad Michael and Michael Chad, whose household tips include how to make your own ice.
The Big Gay Sketch Show: Season 2 Join a crew of talented comedians as they skewer social attitudes and pop culture in this original series from Logo, television's first gay network. This season's satire includes Elaine Stritch pitching her new fragrance; Maya Angelou's dramatic reading from Craigslist; a wicked twist on "Dynasty"; and a "Facts of Life" parody featuring guest star Paul Vogt of "Mad TV." Chastity Bono and co-executive producer Rosie O'Donnell also appear.
The Waltons: Season 7 Joy, grief, love and loss are all on the docket for the indomitable Walton clan in the seventh season of the beloved family drama. The season opener breaks the tragic news that Grandpa Zeb has passed away, which leaves Grandma heartbroken and alone. In other developments, Mary Ellen and Erin move to Charlottesville, Elizabeth celebrates an important birthday, and Jim-Bob joins the Army after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Baby's First Year: Vol. 2: Bringing the Baby Home Newborn babies don't come with how-to manuals, but parents are in luck -- this program gives you vital information about the moment baby arrives (covering topics like circumcision, preemies and using a doula) to when you bring your little one home. Pediatricians and parents share tips and stories about sleeping patterns, crying habits, SIDS and colic, and helpful hints for Mommy and Daddy to get some rest too.
Ballet Class: Intermediate & Advanced with David Howard Professional ballet dancer and coach David Howard focuses on movement potential, kinetic awareness and classical vocabulary in this intermediate ballet lesson that features former members of the American Ballet Theatre. A member of the National Association for Regional Ballet's board of directors, Howard has coached at the Joffrey, New York's Metropolitan Opera, the Ballet de Marseilles, Boston Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada.
Firestone Dances: Historic Ballet Performances Culled from dance highlights of the 1962-63 incarnation of "The Voice of Firestone" series, this collection features the U.S. televised solo debut of Rudolf Nureyev as well as appearances by the famed team of Jacques D'Amboise and Melissa Hayden. These and other distinguished dancers -- including Maria Tallchief, Oleg Tupine Caprice and Kirsten Simone -- perform to the music of Tchaikovsky, Debussy, Rossini, Pugni and Minkus.
Plasmaquarium 2: Ultra Coral Reef Now you can enjoy the spectacular beauty of exotic coral reefs anywhere you have a television. Featuring hundreds of colorful fish, this calming program contains 11 coral reef scenes that were filmed in the waters off the coast of the Philippines. The high-quality images give viewers a panoramic perspective of each reef, and the tranquil soundtrack of either soft music or natural bubbling makes the images all the more soothing.
Russian Folk Song and Dance Surrounded by magnificent natural landscapes, four outstanding troupes -- wearing ornate traditional costumes -- perform ethnic Russian songs and dances in this one-of-a-kind video. Actor Tony Randall provides the narration as the Pyatnitsky Folk & Dance Ensemble, the Siberian-Omsk Folk Chorus, the Uzbekistan Dance Ensemble and the Moldova Folk Song and Dance Ensemble present an array of stellar routines.
Soviet Army Chorus, Band and Dance Ensemble In a Russian equivalent of the USO, the Soviet Army Chorus, Band and Dance Ensemble traveled the front lines during World War II, entertaining the troops with 200 dancers, acrobats and musicians. This rare filmed performance features the troupe in one of the 1,500 appearances they made during the war, bringing traditional Russian music and spectacular tumbling and dance to the stage.
Surviving Motherhood: Your Guide to Being a Mom Despite its many joys, motherhood is definitely not for wimps. This informative Learning Channel series lays out the challenges of being a mother and discusses strategies for meeting each. Viewers will learn the truth about postpartum depression, how to keep the romance in your relationship after the baby arrives, how to cope with the "terrible twos" and more. Also included are two episodes of the TLC series "A Baby Story."
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer Featuring more than 60 illustrations from the likes of Norman Rockwell, Mark Twain's celebrated novel springs to life in this engaging dramatization as mischievous orphan Tom Sawyer and his friends share adventures on the mighty Mississippi River. Using his charm and his wits, Tom always skates away from trouble, whether he's pretending to be a buccaneer or pursuing the lovely Becky Thatcher. On-screen text is included so viewers can read along.
Bachatas Pegaditas en Video Enjoy the Dominican Republic's answer to the blues with this compilation of videos by some of the biggest names in bachata. The clips feature bittersweet lyrics and haunting melodies by artists such as Andy Andy, El Gringo de la Bachata, Monchy & Alexandra, Zacarias Ferreira, Wilkin Rivera, Toby Love, Nicold Frias, Kiko Rodríguez and Ronald Nuñez.
Bernstein in Rehearsal and Performance This program captures one of the most celebrated classical conductors of all time, Leonard Bernstein, in rehearsal and performance at the Academy of Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival in 1988, in particular exploring the music of Dmitri Shostakovich. Bernstein's infectious passion and gift for teaching come shining through as he leads the student ensemble through the wonders of Shostakovich's evocative compositions.
Celebration of Gospel: Spirit in Song Top R&B and gospel singers fill the room with songs of praise in this rousing revival. Artists include Patti LaBelle, John Legend, Shirley Caesar, Yolanda Adams, Mighty Clouds of Joy, Israel and the New Breed and Kirk Franklin. Popular television and radio personality Steve Harvey hosts the spiritual songfest, which first aired on BET. Other featured performers include J Moss, T-Bone and Dr. Bobby Jones.
Celibidache: Ravel and Debussy The incomparable Sergiu Celibidache leads the Munich Philharmonic through works by Maurice Ravel and Claude Debussy in this rare recorded performance from 1994. Celibidache's intense passion infuses selections including Ravel's "Alborada del Gracioso," "Rhapsodie Espagnole" and "Bolero," as well as Debussy's "Prélude à 'l'Après-midi d'un Faune" and "Images: No. 2. Iberia."
Concert in Honour of Pope Benedict XVI: Live from the Vatican Celebrated conductor Mariss Jansons leads the Symphonieorchester und Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks in an inspirational performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, recorded live at the Vatican in a 2007 concert honoring Pope Benedict XVI. Also included is a powerful version of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina's "Tu Es Petrus," along with behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the musicians involved in this historic event.
Louis Armstrong: Live in Australia This rare presentation captures an entire concert by legendary jazz trumpeter Louis Armstrong during his 1964 tour of Australia and includes performances of favorites such as "Mack the Knife" and "Sweet Georgia Brown." Backed by Jewel Brown, Danny Barcelona and others, Satchmo also cuts loose on "Blueberry Hill," "How High the Moon," "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," "When the Saints Go Marching In" and more.
Martina McBride: Live in Concert Country music star Martina McBride shines in this concert from the PBS series "Great Performances." Filmed in Moline, Ill., the show features McBride's greatest hits, including "Happy Girl," "Independence Day," "How I Feel" and "Concrete Angel." Other tracks include covers of Pat Benatar's "Hit Me with Your Best Shot" and Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" and the standards "I Never Promised You a Rose Garden" and "Over the Rainbow."
Merengues Pegaditos en Video Get your toes tapping to the unique sound of the Dominican Republic's trademark music with this compilation of videos by some of the biggest names in merengue. The clips feature infectious tunes by artists such as Karis, Milly Quezada, Jandy Ventura, Eddy Herrera, Kinito Méndez, Giselle, Sergio Vargas, Fulanito, Opalo, Ilegales and Grupo Mania.
Salsas Pegaditas en Video Thrill to the fiery sounds of Latin America's biggest musical export with this compilation of videos by some of the biggest names in salsa. The clips feature Caribbean- and African-influenced melodies by artists such as Víctor Manuelle, N'Klabe, La Organización, Tito Rojas, Orquesta Guayacán, Jerry Rivera, Puerto Rican Power, Luis Manuel and 3 Son Salsa.
Unsuk Chin: Alice in Wonderland Lewis Carroll's classic Alice in Wonderland is brought to fantastic new life in this hypnotic opera by Korean composer Unsuk Chin, a production directed by Achim Freyer. The enchanting fairy tale of Alice and her adventures in a magical world where she meets a strange collection of characters are depicted by a mix of both and puppets and singer-actors. The result is a colorful collage of music, costumes and masks.
Voice of Firestone: Robert Merrill: In Opera and Song After more than two decades on radio, "The Voice of Firestone" became a television sensation. This compilation features opera and musical theater star Robert Merrill, one of the show's greatest performers, in rare original broadcasts. Highlights include "On the Street Where You Live" from "My Fair Lady," selections from "Il Trovatore," "Carmen," "Pagliacci" and "The Barber of Seville" and standards such as "I Only Have Eyes for You."
Zappa Plays Zappa Accompanied by a score of other talented musicians, guitarist Dweezil Zappa plays the songs of his legendary father, Frank Zappa. Recorded live in Portland and Seattle, this program features an eclectic set sure to please even die-hard Zappa fans. Special guests Napoleon Murphy Brock and Terry Bozzio, former collaborators with Frank Zappa, also take the stage to help Dweezil pay tribute to his father's incredible legacy.
Angelique In 17th-century France, beautiful country maiden Angélique (Michèle Mercier) marries wealthy neighbor Jeoffray de Peyrac (Robert Hossein) out of convenience, but eventually, she falls in love with him. So when Jeoffray is arrested and then vanishes, she bravely sets out to find him. This is the first of many dramas based on Anne and Serge Golon's novels about strong-willed Angélique and her adventures during the reign of Louis XIV, the Sun King.
Angelique: The Road to Versailles / Angelique and the King Now widowed, 17th-century French beauty Angélique (Michèle Mercier) opens an inn, reunites with her children, and is called on to handle a special assignment for King Louis XIV in this double feature. In The Road to Versailles, Angélique suffers great loss but bounces back when she finds her kids and becomes a businesswoman. In Angélique and the King, Angélique's political mission turns complicated when a foreign diplomat falls for her.
Avida This French surrealist, hyper-stylized comedy reveals what happens when an animal handler gets sucked into the world of two subversive, drug-addicted zookeepers in the midst of orchestrating a plot to kidnap a rich woman's dog. Everything goes awry when the three dognappers, in their efforts to wrangle the canine, find themselves forced into helping the dog's wealthy owner to achieve her last wish.
Dear Mr. Waldman Set in early-1960s Tel Aviv, this coming-of-age story centers on 10-year-old Hilik (Ido Port) and his struggle to help heal the emotional wounds of his father, who hasn't recovered from losing his elder son at Auschwitz. Still in denial, Moishe (Rami Heuberger) believes his son escaped and is now President Kennedy's aide. To help his father move on and gain the father-son relationship he sorely needs, Hilik puts Moishe's love to the test.
Heartbeat Detector When a Parisian psychologist (Mathieu Amalric) is asked to conduct a confidential assessment of Mathias Jüst (Michael Lonsdale) -- the head of the German petrochemical company that employs him -- he uncovers a series of unpleasant truths. Nicolas Klotz directs this French-language Cannes selection that explores the lingering effects of World War II-era Nazism on contemporary Europe.
Karaoke Terror: The Complete Japanese Showa Songbook In this dark, cult comedy set to retro karaoke hits, a war for revenge rages between two sects of karaoke devotees when a middle-age divorcée from the Midoris crew is killed by a teenage slacker from the Gakis gang. A generation gap between them, the two groups of malcontents, who share a passion for singing oldies tunes, turn their societal angst against each other in a no-holds-barred battle that leaves only death and destruction in its wake.
Living Goddess Filmed in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley, Ishbel Whitaker's documentary examines the lives of three girls thought to be reincarnated goddesses whose story unfolds amid the country's political and religious strife. Worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists alike, the three share a common divinity, but while Chanira and Preeti are sheltered from the outside world, Sajani's parents strive to create a normal life for their daughter.
Lone Wolf and Cub: TV Series: Vol. 1 After being falsely accused of scheming against the shogun, royal executioner Ittô Ogami (Kinnosuke Nakamura) flees with his 3-year-old son, Daigorô, on a quest for vengeance against the Yagyu clan that killed Ittô's wife and disgraced him. Father and son soon become paid assassins known as Lone Wolf and Cub in this rousing Japanese TV series also starring Takumi Satô. Nine episodes are included.
Party 7 In director Katsuhito Ishii's off-the-wall comic tale, a collection of screwballs, killers and crooks converge at a kitschy hotel where two-bit yakuza Miki Shunichirô (Masatoshi Nagase) is holed up with a heap of stolen cash. As two perverted voyeurs observe the action in his Miki's room, he entertains a number of uninvited visitors, including his shapely ex-girlfriend (Akemi Kobayashi) and a bushy-haired, combustible assassin.
Pistoleros When word spreads that jailed gangster Frank (Erik Holmey) hid millions in stolen money somewhere in Copenhagen, all types of criminals come out of the woodwork looking for it, including Frank's sons Sonny (Daniell Edwards) and Brian (Dennis Riedel). Meanwhile, crafty gun dealer Tuki (Salah El Koussa) sells weapons to everyone involved in the hunt, which is growing increasingly frenetic as more trigger-happy thugs get in on the action.
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly In 1995, author and Elle magazine editor Jean-Dominique Bauby suffered a stroke that put him in a coma; he awakened mute and completely paralyzed. Mathieu Amalric stars in this adaptation of Bauby's autobiography, which he dictated by blinking. Julian Schnabel was nominated for the 2008 Best Director Oscar and won the Golden Globe in the same category for his poignant film about the strength of the human spirit.
Untamable Angélique / Angélique and the Sultan Michèle Mercier stars as indomitable 17th-century French heroine Angélique de Peyrac in two films based on the novels of Anne and Serge Golon. In 1967's Untamable Angélique, she rebuffs the advances of a ship's captain, who sells her into slavery out of spite. In Angélique and the Sultan (1968), our heroine's husband (Robert Hossein) hatches a scheme to rescue her from the clutches of a powerful -- and well-armed -- sultan.
