By DNA Smith
PICKS OF THE WEEK
“Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (PG-13) — “Scott Pilgrim” is not only the most stylistic and visually engaging films of the year, it also is one of the most enjoyable. Michael Cera stars as the titular Pilgrim, a Canadian slacker who plays bass in an indie band and finds himself in the awkward and life-threatening situation of falling in love with the uber-hip and out-of-his-league Ramona (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). But before he can date her, he must defeat her seven deadly exes.
Sure, it’s a goofy and ridiculous premise, but in this fantasy comic book/video game-based universe where Pilgrim and his friends reside, it makes perfect sense, because here everything and everyone exist in a place where physical laws are all based on videogames. Punch a dude hard enough and he’ll fly back 300 yards. Defeat an opponent, and he poofs out of existence, leaving nothing but a shower of golden coins, a la Mario.
Of the hundreds of films based on comic books, “Scott Pilgrim” is the first movie to perfectly replicate the comic book experience and aesthetic. Check it out. This film’s charm and whimsy shouldn’t be missed.
“Sherlock: Season One” (NR) — “Doctor Who” producer Steven Moffat has managed to do what most people thought impossible: Bring to the small screen a modern-day Sherlock Holmes series that is not only exciting and entertaining, but also manages to make the detective relevant in a world of cell phones, internet and CSI units. Benedict Cumberbatch (“Atonement”) stars as Holmes, and he delivers a performance that rivals even the great Jeremy Brett’s — a feat I didn’t think possible. Martin Freeman (“The Office”) co-stars as Dr. Watson, and the chemistry between the two men is what makes the program a delight to watch. The DVD release includes all three 90-minute specials, the original un-aired pilot (which is, in my opinion, superior to the first episode), commentary track on the finale and a featurette on the casting of the show.
“Ladies and Gentlemen: The Rolling Stones” Deluxe Edition 3 DVD Numbered Box Set (NR) — Filmed over the course of four nights in 1972, “Ladies & Gentlemen” is considered by most to be the greatest Rolling Stones concert ever. This lavish boxed set includes the fully restored and remastered concert film, a second disc featuring the “Stones in Exile” documentary, and a third disc packed with special features including television interviews and footage from the Australian leg of the tour. Also included in the individually numbered boxed set is a scarf, a movie poster, two 35mm film cells and a 60-page book.
TV SERIES
“Doctor Who” The Complete Fifth Series
“Golden Girls” 25th Anniversary Complete Collection
“Lie to Me” Season Two
“Californication” The Third Season
“The Super Hero Squad Show: Quest For The Infinity Sword” Vol. 2
“Superman/Shazam” The Return of Black Adam
“Hell’s Kitchen” Season 4 Raw and Uncensored
“Men of a Certain Age” The Complete First Season
“Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” The Complete Series
“Whale Wars” Season 3
“Metalocalypse” Season 3
“Bill Moyers: Genesis — A Living Conversation”
© 2010 King Features Synd., Inc.