DVD Releases for the Week of Aug. 18, 2009

Hot off the heels of the Cassavetes retrospective at Cinema du Parc comes a new transfer of Husbands about three married men who go off on a personal journey together after the death of a friend. This is the first time Husbands will be available on DVD. Along with Peter Falk it also stars Cassavetes as one of the men, allowing viewers to experience both his directing and acting style.

Tyson
Those four ‘musclemen’ in Husbands have nothing on the subject of James Toback’s documentary: former pro boxer Mike Tyson. While infamous for his ear-chewing incident and violent exterior, this close-up interview with the man attempts to reveal a lighter and even spiritual side to his personality. Most controversially, it gives him a voice against accusations of sexual harassment that have been generally regarded as de facto considering his past behaviour. While there is little muscle-flexing here, generally favourable reviews should make this a could one to check out.

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Play Time
Some cineastes would claim it to be a cop-out watching Jacques Tati’s 1967 film on the small screen. In fact, some would go as far as to say it ain’t worth it. The reason being the film was shot in 70mm film – which is IMAX quality. I suppose the same criticism could be made for watching IMAX films on DVD, which have less content than a traditional documentary as they rely on image. Basically unprecedented for an art film in the 60s, the visual details are said to be astounding. While primarily a visual film, it has a basic storyline of a businessman attempting to find someone (and getting lost in between) and some slight humour to accompany what’s on screen.

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Other Releases
Crime est notre affaire, Le
Hannah Montana: The Movie
Last House on the Left

Love Comes Lately
Surveillance
These Old Broads

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