Brandon Routh in "Superman Returns"
courtesy of Warner Home Video

"Flying High"

Whereas the James Bond series, the Batman adventures, and even the "Star Wars" prequels have gotten darker and more serious than the originals, the Superman series still flies high with special effects and a do good hero. "Superman Returns" is now out on DVD and it shows that the basic premise of the Superman movies is here to stay.

Brandon Routh has taken over the "Superman" role and he is quite impressive. Kate Bosworth is Lois Lane and she is a spirited lady for our super hero. Kevin Spacey, channeling Gene Hackman, plays Lex Luther and even Marlon Brando appears in a cameo as Superman's father

This two disc DVD also has three hours of bonus features that include additional scenes, behind the scenes, and interviews. You will want to be aware of everything that went on in bringing this hero back to the screen. So get "Superman Returns" and see why this franchise is "flying high."

You can learn everything you ever wanted to know about the filming of "The Green Mile" and more in "The Green Mile: Special Edition." This two disc DVD features the full version of the film plus a ton of extras. You get a documentary, an interview with Tom Hanks, and other special features that will enlighten you as to the background of the film and the story.

This movie that stars Hanks, Patricia Clarkson, Bonnie Hunt, James Cromwell and Michael Clarke Duncan gets better with every viewing. It has so many nooks and crannies in the script that you can't take it all in with just one visit. And with all this "extra" material you are set for hours and hours, days and days.

Val Kilmer stars in "The Ten Commandments: The Musical" and he is very impressive. I know this idea of a musical about Moses sounds hokey but for some reason I enjoyed the whole thing. Maybe it has already fallen over into camp, but for whatever reason I had a good time and think you might too.

It is nice to see something different and daring for a change and this "musical" certainly is. And bravo to Kilmer for taking on the role of Moses. He has a pretty good singing voice and he certainly can do the drama. So if you like musicals take a chance and watch this one. You might enjoy it more than you think.

"Bah, Humduck! A Looney Tunes Christmas" is the first Looney Tunes movie ever made to be seen originally on DVD. The movie is a take off on Dickens' A CHRISTMAS CAROL and features Daffy Duck as the Scrooge like character.

Porky Pig, Bugs Bunny, Tweety, Granny and others join in the fun and make this a movie with a message but also a wealth of laughs. Get it!

Chip n Dale and their pals Gadget Hackwrench, Zipper and Monterey Jack are all back for a new adventure in "Chip n Dale's Rescue Rangers: Volume 2." This 3-disc collection takes you on adventures all around the world. So grab a comfortable seat with the kids and let them have a blast as Chip n Dale come to the rescue every time, any time.

Mickey Mouse, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto are all on DVD in "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Mickey Saves Santa and Other Mouseketales." The group has fun times along with great adventures and capers that will keep your kids glued to the TV screen. This is a wonderful way to entertain tem in the most wholesome way.

So pick up your copy of "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Mickey Saves Santa and Other Mouseketales." It will make you a popular person in your household. And while you are out also pick up "Adventures of the Gummi Bears: Volume One Seasons 1 - 3." This adventure of the bears that have some super powers is also a kid treat. Just watching the bears protect the world form evil is a thrilling way to spend some time.

Just in time for Christmas comes "The Golden Girls: Season 6." This collection of shows from the very funny sixth season would make the perfect gift for someone on your list. It has special guests like Sonny Bono, Debbie Reynolds and Jeffrey Tambour; and as always it features the hilarious exchanges between Dorothy, Sophia, Blanche and Rose.

Make sure you add this to your shopping list and make someone very happy this Christmas season!

 

 

 

 

 

©2006 Jackie K. Cooper

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