‘Sweeney Todd’
The Demon Barber of Fleet Street has Johnny Depp and Tim Burton joining forces again. This time it’s a big-screen adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s award-winning musical thriller with Depp in the lead role (Oscar-nominated at that). Depp sets up a barber shop down in London which is the basis for a sinister partnership with his fellow tenant, Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter). Many special features are added including the real history of the Demon Barber, a look at Sondheim’s musical, rehearsals, recording sessions, and the brilliant design and art direction involved in the production. (Dreamworks) ‘The Kingdom’ Series Two A haunting roller coaster of a ride is in store for viewers of this inventive supernatural thriller set inside Denmark’s most esteemed but cursed medical institution. The final four episodes tied into malicious forces at work as the hospital’s restless spirits play havoc among the eccentric staff and residents. (Koch) ‘The Unknown Soldier’
A provocative and intriguing story that is a dagger in Germany’s consciousness, here is a film about the controversial Wehrmacht Exhibition. Through this material it is revealed for the first time via personal letters, photographs and film footage that implicates the common foot soldier in horrific acts. Crimes against humanity committed by the Nazi regime is often thought of as the exclusive work of the Waffen SS and the Gestapo, this is a revealing look at a nation still reconciling its proud history with a unique and horrible wartime legacy. (First Run) ‘You’ve Got Mail’ Deluxe Edition Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan star in this comedy/romance where two business rivals hate each other at the office but fall in love over the Internet. Greg Kinnear, Dave Chappelle, Parker Posey, and Jean Stapleton are part of the fine supporting cast. Supplements include all-new interviews with Hanks and Ryan as well as a Carole King music video, an interactive tour of Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and commentary from co-writer/director Nora Ephron and producer Lauren Donner. (Warner Bros) ‘PU-239’
A nuclear-power plant worker (Paddy Considine) in 1995 post-Soviet Russia, learns how authorities lied about the extent he was exposed to radiation and now only has a few days to live. If you had only a few days to live, how far would you go to ensure your family’s future? Deadly substances (plutonium) in the hands of deadly figures (Russian criminal underground) is at the core of this riveting thriller. It includes commentary from writer/director Scott Burns. (HBO) ‘The Wild, Wild West’ The Fourth Season James West (Robert Conrad) and Artemus Gordon (Ross Martin) have their hands full keeping the late 19th century America safe from the evil geniuses, criminal masterminds, and devious despots out to change the world order. As two agents of President Grant, these two roam the west in their special train keeping the ever-present chaos from spreading to dangerous levels. Two dozen episodes from the 1968-69 season come on six discs. (Paramount/CBS) Film and television author RANDY WILLIAMS reviews the latest movies, television shows, documentaries and music programs now available for purchase online or at your local retail store.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on March 28, 2008. Read the original PDF.