Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
The Comfort of Strangers is a perfectly realized adaptation of the unsettling Ian McEwan novel of the same name. Paul Schrader directs. Christopher Walken and Helen Mirren shine in the film. Criterion Collection has given the film a pristine Blu-ray release.
Reversal of Fortune is a well made film based on the true crime book by defense lawyer Alan Dershowitz. Jeremy Irons gives a strong performance alongside Ron Silver and Glenn Close. Warner Archive has given the film a fan pleasing Blu-ray presentation.
Deep Rising is an adventure film that blends elements from The Poseidon Adventure, Under Siege, Alien, and John Carpenter films into one crazy B-movie starring Treat Williams and Famke Janssen. Kino Lorber has given the film a Collector’s Edition full of extras.
Small Soldiers is a family friendly film from Joe Dante from 1998. Featuring some great comedic talents, the film is ripe for rediscovery.
The Second Civil War is a strong entry in Joe Dante’s filmography. Working with a dream cast, the film is an enjoyable satire.
Gremlins 2: The New Batch is a rare thing – a great sequel. Warner Bros. gave the film a Blu-ray release in 2012.
Death Warrant is a great early Van Damme feature. Scorpion Releasing/ Ronin Flix have given the film a strong transfer from a 2K scan and some enjoyable special features.
Color of Night was vilified upon its release but has still held onto a devoted fan base for more than twenty five years. The new release by Kino includes the home video debut of the Theatrical Cut and a great commentary track by Richard Rush. Unfortunately, the video specs are still pretty rough.
Showdown is an extremely fun and unintentionally hilarious rip-off of The Karate Kid. MVD Rewind have given it a fantastic release. Fans of cheesy Nineties films will want to check this one out.
