‘No Country’s’ pursuits now lead to DVD store
No Country for Old Men
Disney, $29.99; Blu-Ray, $34.99
For anyone who can’t get enough of the newly crowned best picture Oscar winner -- the pursuit-within-a-pursuit, philosophically inclined neo-noir western that seduced critics and motion picture academy members with its deadly suspense and sublime formalism -- here it is, ready to be added to your collection.
Joel and Ethan Coen blended unconventional genre motifs and mordant humor in their searing adaptation of the Cormac McCarthy novel, also winning director and adapted screenplay Oscars for their efforts. And, of course, Javier Bardem took home best supporting actor for his turn as a coiffure-challenged killer who has quickly joined the ranks of memorable cinema heavies. Tommy Lee Jones as an aging lawman and Josh Brolin as an opportunistic welder are also dead-on brilliant. Bonus features include three short behind-the-scenes docs.
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August Rush
Warner, $28.99; Blue-Ray and HD, $35.99
This modern fairy tale devoted to the power of music stars young Freddie Highmore as a prodigy searching for the parents from whom he was separated at birth. Directed by Kirsten Sheridan, its earnestness tends to overwhelm its more magical intentions. With Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Terrence Howard and Robin Williams. Includes 10 minutes of additional scenes.
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Bee Movie
Paramount, $29.98/$36.98; HD, $39.99
After his post-sitcom return to his stand-up roots with the documentary “Comedian,” Jerry Seinfeld immersed himself in this animated comedy that landed to mixed reviews. The comedian wrote and produced the film and provided the voice of the lead bee who breaks free of the hive, called to a higher purpose than simply making honey. Available in single- and double-disc editions, with the latter tacking on more features, an alternative ending and commentary from Seinfeld and the other filmmakers.
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Dan in Real Life
Disney, $29.99; Blu-Ray, $34.99
Steve Carell stars as a newspaper columnist who falls for his brother’s girlfriend in this intergenerational comedy from director Peter Hedges (“Pieces of April”). Juliette Binoche steals the show as Carell’s love interest and heads a supporting cast that features Dane Cook, John Mahoney, Emily Blunt and Dianne Wiest. Includes deleted scenes, outtakes, a pair of featurettes and commentary by Hedges.
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Nancy Drew
Warner, $28.98
The self-sufficient young sleuth gets a contemporary update with Emma Roberts in the title role. The quick-witted Nancy’s high jinks in Hollywood are a refreshing portrayal of teenaged girls, though some critics found it more suited for the small screen. A gag reel, making-of doc and music video are the bonus features.
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Sleuth
Sony, $26.96; Blu-Ray, $38.95
Michael Caine steps into the Laurence Olivier role with Jude Law taking over for Caine in this disappointing remake of the Anthony Shaffer two-hander about a novelist and an actor in a deadly battle of wits. Adapted by Harold Pinter and directed by Kenneth Branagh, it fails to live up to the 1972 original. The extras feature commentaries with Branagh and the actors, plus two featurettes.
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And . . .
“Hitman” (Fox; $34.98); “Lake of Fire” (ThinkFilm/Velocity, $27.98); “Summer Palace” (Palm, $24.99); “Tin Man” (RHI, $24.95)
-- Kevin Crust
