Below are two new and very diverse releases from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment.  Both films in their own right would make great gifts for Christmas and the upcoming holidays.

The A-Team: Today, The A-Team is being released on Blu-ray & DVD.  Based on the popular 1980’s TV show, this was a surprisingly intelligent and hugely entertaining action film.  For those seeking explosive entertainment, it comes highly recommended.  We reviewed the film when it opened in theatres on June 11th, all agreeing that it delivered a ton of fun.  Our consensus was:

 

“The A-Team is a fun Summer blockbuster filled with explosive action sequences, good acting, quirky characters, and surprisingly intelligent twists.  For those seeking action-filled entertainment, The A-Team is a must-see. *** (Out of 4)”

 

The Blu-ray includes audio commentary with director Joe Carnahan, featurettes, and a short montage of memorable scenes from the movie.  A digital copy is also included, as well as an extended cut of the film.

 

The A-Team is 118 minutes and rated PG.  The extended version is 133 minutes and unrated.

Cyrus: To change pace entirely, the Duplass Brothers third collaborative effort, Cyrus, is also being released today courtesy of 20th Century Fox.  Featuring the best performance of Jonah Hill’s young career, this is a very interesting little character study.   We reviewed the film when it opened in theatres on June 25th, all considering it one worth seeing.  Our consensus was:

 

“Featuring Jonah Hill’s best performance to date, Cyrus is an interesting emotional triangle, that works so well because it never delves into full creepiness, and treats its subjects with sincerity.  Despite the sometimes distracting shaky camera work, this is a fascinating character study from directors Jay and Mark Duplass. ***1/2 (Out of 4)”

 

The Blu-ray includes 2 deleted scenes, the first more worthwhile than the second.  Both include introductions from the Duplass Brothers.

 

Please read my Q&A with Jay & Mark Duplass here.

 

Cyrus is 90 minutes and rated 14A.

 

-John C.