A ‘Bright Star’ that’s been overlooked
You should be talking about: “Bright Star”
If there were any justice, star Abbie Cornish would be getting an Oscar nomination for her role as the love of poet John Keats. The slow-burning romance, from director Jane Campion, has been largely overlooked this awards season. Protest by buying the DVD out this week. (Tuesday)
Still talking about: “This Is It”
The DVD release of the Michael Jackson concert film will include two extra documentaries going deeper into the development of what were to be the King of Pop’s comeback shows. The disc will also come with features on the costumes, the dancer auditions and a tribute from the cast and crew to Michael. Buy the Blu-ray edition to also get uncut versions of the numbers “Smooth Criminal” and “Thriller.” (Tuesday)
Giddy to talk about: “The Inbetweeners”
Ah, adolescence. Not since “Freaks and Geeks” have I enjoyed as honest a look at that awkward time as I did watching the first few episodes of this U.K. comedy about a group of teenage friends bumbling their way through a suburban high school. The best reason to locate BBC America on your box. (Monday)
You need to talk about: “Damages”
As good as last season was, it put some of us through the mental wringer with its continuing Season 2 story lines and host of new characters. This season wipes the slate clear: Patty’s taking on a Bernie Madoff-like weasel while secretly pining away for Ellen, who has moved on to busting small-time drug dealers for the district attorney’s office. Their worlds collide for one shocker of a reason. (Monday)
Last chance to talk about: “Dollhouse”
It was noble effort, Whedonites, but shutting down time is here. The good news is that the finale of the Fox series continues the devastating vision set up in the killer first season-ender, “Epitaph One.” (Friday)
-- Denise Martin