Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson in "Vacancy"
courtesy of Sony Home Entertainment
"Checking Out"

As hot as the weather is right now, you need a chilling movie to help cool things down. And I have just the right DVD for you. "Vacancy" is somewhat similar to the old "Psycho" film but not as terrifying and not as shocking. What it does have is a pair of lead actors who win the audience over from the very start. You are pulling for Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson through every adversity they face, and that is a real plus for this movie.

David and Amy Fox (Wilson and Beckinsale) are a married couple who are on a trip. They get off the interstate and take a back road and that is when their troubles begin. Their car develops problems and it is in the wee hours of the morning. They end up checking into a seedy motel where the motel manager (Frank Whaley) is as bizarre acting as Anthony Perkins ever was.

Once in their room Dave discovers some old VHS tapes that show people being murdered. He makes the connection that these events took place in the very room in which he and Amy are staying. A cat and mouse game begins between the couple and a trio of assailants with the loser being killed.

This is the type of movie that places the emphasis on suspense rather than gore, and that's a plus. Like "Disturbia" the thrills in the movie come from fear and dread rather than blood and guts.

There are some plotholes in the movie but nobody expects a film like this to make perfect sense. It is enough that the couple is in jeopardy and they are trying everything than can to escape. The audience is cheering them on and hoping against hope that they survive.

Wilson is his usual loveable self and that makes Dave a truly likeable hero. He is still a little klutzy and all too human but his attempts to save his mate are totally believable. Beckinsale is a true beauty and she makes Amy vulnerable yet strong. She is not the typical little woman as she uses her wit and her strength to try to save her own neck.

You will definitely get some chills watching this suspenseful film. It is the perfect movie for a hot summer night.

"Rome: The Complete Second Season" is also must watch DVD entertainment. The ten episodes of the second season are on the new DVD plus a lot of extras. But even without the extras, just watching the story of Roman life after the death of Julius Caesar is reason enough for celebration.

This show had it all - great acting, a compelling story, fantastic sets, plus sex and violence. What else could you want? And it is all presented in a literary way that challenges the mind and the eyes. 

For those who don't subscribe to HBO this is the opportunity of a lifetime to see one of the most celebrated shows on television. This is something special so get it today!

If you are into backyard barbecuing, or even backyard barbecue eating then you will have an interest in "Barbecue Championship Series - Volume 1, The Complete Season." This DVD shows the competition for the title of best barbecue maker. It is a cooking, judging fight to the finish as six champions, six challengers and six wild cards do battle.

This is reality meets the Food Network and the viewers are the winners. He food is great, the insight astonishing, and the competition fierce. So get this DVD and let the food games begin.

Also in the "Reality" genre is "Underground," a DVD about "ultimate fighting." The competitors are some of the top stuntmen in the movies today and they are up for the challenge. They are fighting for a million-dollar prize so it is all out and no holds barred competition.

There are a variety of categories such as kickboxing, karate, boxing, wrestling and more. It is action packed and exhilarating to watch. So get the DVD that everybody is discussing - "Underground."

"Eight Simple Rules" will always be remembered as John Ritter's last TV series. It was one in which he appeared as the father of two daughters and a son. The show had some wonderful comedic moments and Ritter was at his best when trying to bluster and solve problems at the same time. 

All of this is captured on the DVD "Eight Simple Rules: The Complete First Season DVD." All twenty-eight episodes are included in the package plus some extras. This is a great family comedy and one you will want to add to your collection.

Your family will also enjoy "The Muppet Show: The Complete Second Season Special Edition DVD." These shows have not been seen in years and the special muppet form of humor is still as enjoyable as it was when first observed.

Plus you get a fantastic array of guest stars such as Steve Martin and Julie Andrews. It is also presented with fun and delight that will enchant all of your kids and the adults in your family as well. Don't miss this new DVD of "The Muppet Show: Second Season." It's a winner!

For a final treat, pick up "Cory In the House: All Star Edition." This -popular Disney Channel series has all the fun and all the laughs plus some bonus "Behind the Scenes" features. Raven Symone and Dwayne "The Rick" Johnson star in different episodes and the behind the scenes looks are at them.

"Cory In the House" is fast becoming one of the Disney Channel must see series. Watch this DVD and you will certainly see why.
 

 

 

 

 

©2007 Jackie K. Cooper

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