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VIDEO AND DVD PREVIOUSLY REVIEWED
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A
“Abraham and Mary Lincoln: A House Divided" (2003)
Writer-director David Grubin offers an intimate portrait of the frontier farmer's son as well as his aristocratic wife in the comprehensive and compelling three-part series, which originally aired on PBS' "The American Experience" series. The first episode entertains with its presentation of personal details. Although Mary, a learned woman, was an incredible flirt, she waited a year and a half for Lincoln to propose a second time, after he had callously broken off their initial engagement. She saw in him the dogged ambition that would lead him to be president, and she wanted to be by his side when it happened. From his first term as president, the bloody Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation through Lincoln's re-election and assassination, the next two episodes emphasize the human story behind the historical facts. Archival photos and lively dramatizations as well as scenes shot in the Mary Todd Lincoln House in Kentucky and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Illinois are interspersed with historians and biographers' commentary. Narrated by David McCullough. Parents should be aware that the documentary contains gruesome images of Civil War victims unsuitable for younger viewers. However, the program is a thorough and engaging presentation that could serve as a psychological history lesson for adolescents.

"The Abyss" (1989)
Derivative sea adventure tracking the attempt to rescue a U.S. nuclear submarine which has sunk in waters inhabited by mysterious, benign alien creatures. Writer-director James Cameron drowns the fantasy in a sea of dopey interpersonal distractions and technological razzle-dazzle. Intense underwater action with drownings, resuscitations and locker-room language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"A Christmas Story" (1983)
Adapted from Jean Shepherd's nostalgic piece of whimsy, "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash," the movie re-creates what it was like to be a boy (Peter Billingsley) yearning for a genuine Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas in the Midwest of the 1940s. Director Bob Clark gets some good performances from Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillon as the understanding parents and the period atmosphere is nicely conveyed in what is essentially a warm celebration of a more innocent, less sophisticated America. A few vulgar syllables. Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Warner Home Video)

"Across the Universe" (Deluxe Edition) (2007)
At once spectacular and schizophrenic, this musical tribute to the Beatles chronicles the adventures of a Liverpool dockworker (Jim Sturgess) as he travels to America, befriends a rebellious preppy (Joe Anderson), falls in love with the preppy's sister (Evan Rachel Wood), pals around with his Janis Joplin-like singer-landlady (Dana Fuchs), her Jimi Hendrix-like bandmate (Martin Luther McCoy), and a former cheerleader turned bohemian (T.V. Carpio). As conceived and directed by Julie Taymor, the film is a highly imaginative, visually stunning fantasia, employing the music of the Fab Four to elucidate the 1960s, though its contrived story line too often leaves both cast and audience bogged down in a mire of cliches. Partial, rear and upper female nudity, cohabitation, a sexual embrace, a disrespectful sequence with a priest, drug use, occasional rough and much crude and crass language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment)

"A Dennis the Menace Christmas" (2007)
Innocent but mostly unfunny holiday outing in which the titular terror (Maxwell Perry Cotton) wreaks havoc on his grouchy neighbor, Mr. Wilson (Robert Wagner), and his kindly wife (Louise Fletcher), thus causing damages that threaten to ruin his parents (Kim Schraner and George Newbern) financially, a problem that only the intervention of an angel (Godfrey) may be able to resolve. Director Ron Oliver's comedy, when not ripping off Dickens or Frank Capra, indulges in the most predictable kind of destructive slapstick, though along the way it does manage to promote some positive values. One mild oath and a sight gag involving a brassiere. Added features on the DVD include a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film, brief blooper and outtake reels, an audio commentary with Oliver and Wagner, a picture-in-picture video commentary by Cotton, and Spanish and Portuguese dubbing and subtitle options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (Warner Home Video)

"Adventures from the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith" (1996)
Inspiring animated PBS adaptation of former U.S. Secretary of Education William J. Bennett's "The Book of Virtues" features two youngsters, Zach and Annie, who are told a series of classic moral tales by a group of animal friends led by a wise bison named Plato. In the two half-hour episodes devoted to faith, the parable of the good Samaritan, the story of the prophet Daniel, the exploits of anti-slavery activist Harriet Tubman (c. 1820-1913) and the legend of Androcles and the lion are recounted as Annie copes with the sudden death of a friendly older neighbor and Zach hesitates to help an immigrant schoolmate left homeless by a fire. Also released are companion volumes on "Honesty" and "Courage." Full-screen DVD. Spanish language option. (PorchLight Home Entertainment)

"The Adventures of Mark Twain" (1986)
Combining elements of the author's life and times with excerpts from his writings, this animated fantasy will engage youngsters while providing older viewers with some insights into Twain's complex character. Will Vinton's use of clay animation, with fully modeled characters in imaginative sets, is a visual treat. Several scenes may be frightening for the very young but otherwise it's unusually fine family entertainment. The no-frills DVD issue offers a good-looking anamorphic (offering maximum resolution) widescreen image. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment)

"The Adventures of the Little Prince: The Greatest Gift" (1983)
Three episodes from the gentle 1980s Nickelodeon series -- endorsed by the National Education Association -- inspired by the character created by Antoine de Saint-Exupery about the wise child who rules the distant asteroid B-612, and in this series comes to earth for various adventures, learning (and imparting to young viewers) various life lessons in the process. The DVD includes three 22-minute episodes. In the titular story, the Little Prince wants to see what Christmas is all about but lands on a tropical isle where a self-centered rich man, reminded of his own lost child, wants to adopt him, caring little for anyone else until the Prince teaches him about generosity and the true meaning of season. "Too Big for This World" and "The Winning Ride," concerning a giant and a jockey, respectively, follow the same pattern. All in all, these are very nice stories for preschoolers, and if the animation is simplistic, it does capture some of the spirit of Saint-Exupery's beloved work. Print quality is a little soft, but colorful enough for the kids. Five other DVDs in the series are available, along with a boxed set of the entire series (Koch Vision).

"The Adventures of Sharkboy & Lavagirl in 3-D" (2005)
Entertaining family fantasy about a picked-on 10-year-old (Cayden Boyd) with a fertile imagination who finds himself recruited by the superheroes he created in his daydreams and blasts off on a mission to save a distant world from the sinister machinations of Mr. Electric (George Lopez). Directed by Robert Rodriguez, this kid-friendly film is full of whimsical visuals but the gimmicky 3-D effects distract from what is otherwise a genial tale about the importance of imagination and fostering creativity. Some light comic book violence and mildly rude humor. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Buena Vista)

"The Adventures of Ociee Nash" (2004)
Family-friendly drama set in 1898 which follows the modest adventures of a tomboyish 9-year-old (Skyler Day), who, leaving behind her widowed father (Keith Carradine), travels from rural Mississippi to North Carolina to live with an aunt (Mare Winningham) set on teaching her to become a "proper young lady." Along the way, she rubs elbows with such historical personalities as President McKinley and the Wright brothers. Directed by Kristen McGary from Milam McGraw Propst's children's novel, "A Flower Blooms on Charlotte Street," the film scores points for its disarmingly old-time-values tone but, sadly, neither its homespun charm nor its refreshingly wholesome message can fully mask its flat writing and performances. The DVD includes both wide- and full-screen versions, though trailers and TV spots are the only significant extras on a good-looking DVD. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. (Fox)

"Adventures of Walker and Ping Ping" (2008)
Two half-hour episodes of an educational animated series designed to introduce children ages 3-8 to the language, history and culture of China. In the first, a boy named Walker, whose family has recently moved to Hong Kong, befriends local girl Ping Ping, and under the guidance of Ping Ping's Grandpa Joss the two set out to explore the Great Wall. Lessons learned along the way include basic geography and some essential words and phrases, the latter frequently repeated and spelled out on-screen in both Chinese and English. These vocabulary terms are reinforced and added to in the second episode, during which the trio visits a market. This widescreen DVD provides a valuable first glimpse at the life of an ancient and vastly influential nation. (Little Emperor; www.walkerandpingping.com)

"An Affair to Remember: 50th Anniversary Edition" (1957)
Lush sentimental melodrama begins as light comedy with a shipboard romance between a wealthy bachelor (Cary Grant) and a former nightclub singer (Deborah Kerr), then plunges into heavyweight soap opera when their rendezvous in New York is prevented by an accident. Director Leo McCarey's remake of his 1939 "Love Affair" manages to keep the lumbering romance afloat with an old-fashioned mix of smiles and tears, a charming cast and plush settings. Starry-eyed romance. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"After Hours" (1985)
A bored yuppie (Griffin Dunne) from Manhattan's fashionable East Side ventures into a dangerous part of town to meet an eccentric date (Rosanna Arquette) only to encounter a series of life-threatening misadventures before escaping back to the safety of his own turf in the dawn's early light. Director Martin Scorsese's black comedy lacks satiric bite, preferring instead to wring laughs out of mental instability and bizarre sexual practices. Sophomoric nihilism and some brief nudity.  The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Warner Bros.)

"After the Sunset" (2004)
Lackluster caper directed by Brett Ratner about a master thief (Pierce Brosnan) who, after calling it quits and retiring to a tropical island with his sexy accomplice (Salma Hayek), is tempted to steal a priceless gem aboard a cruise ship docked in port while being watched by an FBI agent (Woody Harrelson) gunning to nail him. Despite good cat-and-mouse chemistry between Brosnan and Harrelson, the film's warmed-over premise doesn't really contribute anything new to the heist genre and in making light of the felonies committed suggests that crime pays handsomely. A glamorized portrayal of larceny, crime without consequence, brief violence, several implied sexual encounters and some racy images, as well as an instance of rough language and intermittent crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (New Line)

"Against the Ropes" (2004)
Leaden drama about a brassy female fight fan (Meg Ryan) who tosses her hat and her hopes into the ring when she decides to manage a promising young boxer (Omar Epps). Based loosely on the life of boxing manager Jackie Kallen, the film, directed by Charles S. Dutton, has little chance of scoring a knockout at the box office thanks to lightweight performances and a script that doesn't pack much of a punch. Boxing action, brief violence and drug content, and recurring crude sexual language and humor.      The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Paramount)

"Air Bud" (Special Edition; 1997)
Thin but likable story of a lonely boy (Kevin Zegers) who befriends a stray dog he names Buddy, then discovers the dog's talent for putting a basketball through the hoop which is good enough for his team's coach (Bill Cobbs) to use Buddy as a substitute player in the big game. Directed by Charles Martin Smith, the proceedings are cheerfully manipulative in alternating heartwarming scenes with ones of slapstick silliness, though some threatening moments are provided by an abusive coach and the cruel master who wants his runaway dog back. Some scenes of menace and a few vulgarities. The DVD includes commentary (uh, dog-u-mentary, from the Buddies, the pups considered the offspring of the original Buddy who have starred in sequels). Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment)

"Air Buddies" (2006)
Straight-to-video fifth installment in the live-action "Air Bud" series in which the sports-playing golden retriever, Air Bud, and his mate are dognapped by a flamboyant animal dealer, leaving it up to their litter of five "talking" puppies to undertake a rescue mission, while evading capture themselves by the poacher's bungling henchmen. The pups are adorable, but director Robert Vince's lightweight effort is padded with frivolous slapstick that may keep very young children adequately amused, but have older kids pawing for the remote. Don't be fooled by the DVD's cover art; there's hardly any of the doggy-sports antics of the previous four films. And while you could do worse for clean, family-friendly entertainment, if you're expecting "101 Dalmatians" -- which this movie references -- you're barking up the wrong tree. Bonus features include a cute "interview" with the pooch stars, an instructive segment on how to train your dog, and more. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children (Disney Home Entertainment).

"Akeelah and the Bee" (2006)
Irresistible story about a South Los Angeles 11-year-old loner (Keke Palmer) who reluctantly competes in a national spelling bee under the tutelage of an emotionally fragile English professor (Laurence Fishburne) and against the initial wishes of her hard-working mother (Angela Bassett). Writer-director Doug Atchison handles Akeelah's journey of self-discovery deftly and builds suspense along the way to a satisfying conclusion, helped by his first-rate leads, and inspiring messages about conquering fears, winning by honest means, the strength of community and, above all, the beauty and potency of words. A few crass expressions and a single use of a four-letter word can't detract from an overall warm endorsement for all audiences. The film has been given the deluxe anamorphic DVD treatment with seven brief but enjoyable deleted scenes, three lively featurettes and more. Highly recommended. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children (Lions Gate Home Video).

"A Knight's Tale" (Extended Cut) (2001)
Rollicking action adventure story about a young squire (Heath Ledger) in 14th-century France who assumes his deceased master's identity and works his way up the jousting circuit to foil a nasty villain (Rufus Sewell). Inspired by Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales," director Brian Helgeland deftly blends contemporary attitudes, dialogue and rock music into an entertaining period piece, although the movie's length is a bit indulgent. Intermittent action violence, some rear nudity and fleeting crass language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Aladdin" (1992)
Vibrant animated "Arabian Nights" tale of a genie (voice of Robin Williams), a commoner in love with a princess and an evil vizier who connives to capture the genie and marry the princess. Directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, the Disney production has a sweet story and delightful animation, and Williams' wisecracks wedded to lightning-fast sight gags should hold adult interest. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. (Buena Vista)

"The Alamo" (2004)
Sweeping historical drama set in 1836 about the famous last stand of a handful of Texans -- led by Jim Bowie (Jason Patric) and Davy Crockett (Billy Bob Thornton) -- who, though overwhelmingly outnumbered, valiantly held the besieged fort for 13 days before falling to the Mexican army under the command of Gen. Santa Anna (Emilio Echevarria), rallying the cause of Texan independence. Despite its sweeping scope, the film, as directed by John Lee Hancock, is less concerned with bloody battles and flag-waving patriotism than it is with the relationships of the men involved, resulting in an intimate, character-driven tale about courage and sacrifice. Extended battlefield violence and some crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Buena Vista)

"All Dogs Go to Heaven 1 & 2" (Double Feature) (1989 and 1996)
The two Don Bluth animated features are repackaged in two slim-line DVD cases, full screen, and with no extras. Adequate print quality on both. (Sony)

"All Dogs Go To Heaven 1" (1989)
Dark, disappointing animated feature, set in 1930s Louisiana, charts the death and redemption of a rogue German shepherd (voice of Burt Reynolds) who, after being bumped off by a crooked business partner, cons his way from heaven back to earth where he is reformed by his love for an adorable orphan (voice of Judith Barsi). The orphan proves the only shining light in director Don Bluth's predictable, derivative fantasy with forgettable music and unappealing lead characters. Some cartoon menace and intense moments of mortal danger. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted.

"All Dogs Go To Heaven 2" (1996)
Animated musical sequel in which two canine angels (voices of Charlie Sheen and Dom DeLuise) in San Francisco to retrieve Gabriel's horn help a runaway boy return home while outwitting a devilish duo. Directed by Paul Sabella and Larry Leker, the result features some sprightly songs but the busy animation often looks washed out. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted.

"All Dogs Go to Heaven: The Series" (1996-1999)
Canine guardian angel Charlie and his scrappy sidekick, Itchy, are back, getting into all sorts of mutt mischief while trying to earn their wings and halos by helping out people and dogs in need here below. Originally airing on cable's Fox (now ABC) Family Channel 1996-99, the animated series features the voices of Steven Weber, Dom DeLuise, Sheena Easton, Ernest Borgnine, Charles Nelson Reilly, and Bebe Neuwirth as Anabelle, the pair's celestial handler who keeps them on a short leash. Each of the two discs (sold separately) contains four episodes grouped according to themes, and each pooch parable imparts a life lesson. Volume 1, "Friends to the Rescue," is comprised of stories dealing with friendship: "Field Trip," "Cyrano De Barkinac," "Mutts Ado About Nothing" and "Heaventh Inning Stretch." Volume 2, "Dogs Undercover," contains a quartet of adventures: "La Doggie Vita," "Magical Misery Tour," "Fearless Fido," and the "The Big Fetch." With their teaching story lines, lively animation and positive messages, these collections, while pleasing parents, should keep the pups wagging their tails. (Sony)

"Almost Heroes" (1998)
Comedy clunker about inept explorers Chris Farley and Matthew Perry starting out from St. Louis in 1804 to beat the Lewis and Clark expedition to the Pacific Ocean. It's a one-joke comedy whose witless wilderness proceedings go from crude to cruder. Slapstick violence, sexual innuendo, outhouse humor and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Bros.)

"Alexander" (2004)
Ambitious historical epic which explores the life of Alexander the Great (Colin Farrell), the fabled fourth-century B.C. Macedonian conqueror, chronicling his rise to power, stunning military victories and empire expansion, with breaks in the sword-and-sandal action for some Freudian forays into his bisexuality and estranged relationship with his conniving mother (Angelina Jolie) and rough-hewn royal father (Val Kilmer). Though this "Alexander" is far from great, director Oliver Stone's visually impressive film features spectacular, though graphic, battles and lavish re-creations of antiquity that somewhat balance its epic flaws, which include campy acting and dialogue, a plodding pace and an interminable running time of three hours. Strong battlefield violence and associated gore, an attempted rape, several implied gay sexual situations, one involving shadowy rear nudity, an explicit straight bedroom scene and generalized background debauchery. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Warner Bros.)

"Alfie" (2004)
Successfully competing with fond memories of the 1966 Michael Caine English film, this new version, set in Manhattan, features a superb Jude Law as the womanizing cad whose callous ways eventually catch up with him. Charles Shyer's beautifully crafted remake -- an exceedingly moral film even as it features a most amoral anti-hero -- follows the titular Cockney limo driver as he makes his amorous way through his best friend's girl (Nia Long), a wealthy older society matron (Susan Sarandon), a married woman (Jane Krakowski), a free-spirited party girl (Sienna Miller) and a single mom (Marisa Tomei), before feeling the emptiness of his self-centered life. Some rough and crude language, strong sexual content, nudity and recreational drug use. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Paramount)

"Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" (1975)
A widow (Ellen Burstyn) takes her young son (Alfred Lutter) on a sojourn across the Southwest trying to pursue her dream of a singing career but winds up as a waitress in a greasy spoon where she is courted by a local rancher (Kris Kristofferson). Director Martin Scorsese's somewhat ambiguous picture of a single parent in contemporary America also offers some interesting insights on the condition of women in a male chauvinistic society. Several sordid situations and rough language.   The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Warner Bros.)

"Alice in Wonderland" (1985)
Lavish two-part television adaptation of Lewis Carroll's evergreen children's story with an incredible all-star cast including Red Buttons (the White Rabbit), Sammy Davis Jr. (the Caterpillar), Roddy McDowell (the March Hare), Robert Morley (the King of Hearts), Anthony Newley (the Mad Hatter), Donald O'Connor (the Lory Bird), Martha Raye (the Duchess), Shelley Winters (the Dodo Bird) , Carol Channing (the White Queen), Ernest Borgnine (the Lion), Karl Malden (the Walrus), and Ringo Starr (the Mock Turtle), plus many more. Irwin ("The Poseidon Adventure") Allen produced, and Harry Harris directed Paul Zindel's reasonably faithful adaptation for which Steve Allen (who also appears) provided some pleasant songs, and the accents are mostly American, including cute Natalie Gregory as Alice. The DVD features a fullscreen image, and the color quality of the film is excellent. Kids should love it, while adults will appreciate the parade of stars (Sony Home Entertainment).

"Alien vs. Predator" (2004)
Sci-fi actioner about a team of scientists (including Sanaa Lathan) hired by a wealthy industrialist (Lance Henriksen) to explore a mysterious ancient pyramid discovered beneath the Antarctic who become live bait in a battle royal between the two space species of the title slugging it out for bragging rights in the galaxy. Cross-pollinating two popular franchises, the extraterrestrial face-off, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, while peppered with some mild shivers and creepy atmospherics, is devoid of substance or style, its repellent cavalcade of slimy special effects drowning out any real suspense and testing the boundaries of its PG-13 rating. Gory action violence, an instance of rough language and scattered crude expressions. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Fox)

"All the King's Men" (2006)
Uneven remake of Robert Penn Warren's 1946 Pulitzer Prize winner set in the 1950s, about a rabble-rousing everyman (Sean Penn) who rises from obscurity, railing against political corruption, and is elected governor of Louisiana, only to be polluted by power once he's in office; and the idealistic journalist (Jude Law) who falls under his spell. Written and directed by Steven Zaillian, the handsomely crafted morality tale -- loosely based on the life of Depression-era Louisiana Gov. Huey P. Long -- explores the means and ends of power, but Penn's passionate and committed performance is undermined by an opaque script. A violent shooting, implied adultery, a suicide, a bedroom encounter with shadowy side nudity, a provocative nightclub performance, some mildly crude language, profanity and racial slurs. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Sony Pictures).

"All the President's Men" (1976)
The investigation by two Washington Post reporters (Dustin Hoffman and Robert Redford) of the facts behind the 1974 Watergate break-in has been dramatized with restraint and objectivity. Director Alan Pakula's deliberately low-keyed, well-acted and comprehensive account of a political scandal emphasizes the painstaking work involved in investigative journalism. Though it uses a few coarse words in a realistic context, the movie is one that older teenagers would benefit from seeing. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Warner Bros.)

"Almost Famous" (2000)
Poignant drama set in the 1970s about an aspiring rock journalist (Patrick Fugit) who lands a freelance assignment at age 15 with Rolling Stone magazine to interview a hot new rock band (led by Billy Crudup) as they tour the United States. Director Cameron Crowe's semiautobiographical coming-of-age story skillfully reflects the era, yet remains on a largely superficial level. Implied sexual encounters, fleeting nudity, an extramarital affair, some drug use including an overdose and intermittent rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (DreamWorks)

"Along Came Polly " (2004)
Stale romantic comedy about a tightly wound New York insurance risk assessor (Ben Stiller) who, after being jilted by his newlywed bride (Debra Messing) on their honeymoon, has his play-it-safe lifestyle turned topsy-turvy when he falls for a bohemian former high school classmate (Jennifer Aniston). In lieu of a smart, witty farce about the emotional perils of modern mating, director John Hamburg has strung together a series of crude bathroom sight-gags and stock sex skits which are made more painful by his love-shy leads' total lack of on-screen chemistry. A few sexual encounters, much crass humor, some rear nudity, recurring crude language and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"A Mighty Heart" (2007)
Tense recounting of the 2002 kidnapping of and frantic search for Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl (Dan Futterman) in Karachi, Pakistan, as seen through the eyes of his pregnant wife, Mariane (Angelina Jolie), also a journalist. Director Michael Winterbottom superbly captures the tumult, and without histrionics (except for one searing outpouring of grief), deftly embodies the courageous Mariane Pearl who, after the tragic events, refused to succumb to bitterness or vengeance. Several uses of the f-word under duress, and a few other crude or crass words, fleeting newsreel footage of bombings and some dead bodies including a grim morgue image, a discreet torture scene, a brief nongraphic bedroom scene and a verbal description of Pearl's gruesome death. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

"Amazing Grace" (2007)
Compelling historical biography about William Wilberforce (a dynamic Ioan Gruffudd), the great 18th-century British abolitionist, who with the help of the young British Prime Minister William Pitt (Benedict Cumberbatch), and other like-minded friends in Parliament and elsewhere (Rufus Sewell, Michael Gambon, Albert Finney and Youssou N'Dour), managed -- after tireless and courageous struggle -- to pass an anti-slave trade bill in Parliament. With its solid performances, accessible script and handsome production design, director Michael Apted's film recalls some of the best historical dramas from Hollywood's golden age, and is all the more admirable for its unabashed portrait of a passionate man of God. The DVD includes commentary by Apted and Gruffudd, a making-of documentary with much historical detail, a tour of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, a music video of the title song with Chris Tomlin, and various interactive study guides. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"American Dreamz" (2006)
Fairly amusing satire of fame and politics as a would-be terrorist (Sam Golzari) enamored of American show tunes winds up on an "American Idol"-like talent show, where his Afghan superiors expect him to kill the U.S. president (Dennis Quaid) who is appearing as a celebrity judge to boost his image, while the show's host (Hugh Grant) falls for a "white trash" contestant from Ohio (Mandy Moore). The performances, including those of Marcia Gay Harden and Willem Dafoe, are good, and director-writer Paul Weitz carefully avoids most of the pitfalls of such a premise with a surprisingly sweet-natured story with no real villains, though the salvos about today's vapid pop culture, the public's misplaced priorities, the need for understanding of our "enemies," and the obscenity of war could sometimes be more sharply focused. Scattered instances of four-letter words, profanity, sexual and crass expressions, an implied premarital coupling and a suicide. The anamorphic DVD includes about 12 minutes of deleted scenes, commentary by Weitz and Golzari, and a couple of lightweight featurettes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Universal).

"America's Heart and Soul" (2004)
Captivating documentary in which filmmaker Louis Schwartzberg traverses the country interviewing a colorful assortment of folks who are passionate about what they do, including a blind mountain climber, a musically inclined dairy farmer, an aerobatic pilot and cliff dancers, to name only a few. Combined with breathtaking, panoramic cinematography, the film's personal vignettes are as emotionally involving as the documentary is spiritually uplifting in celebrating individual diversity and the love of liberty that Americans share. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Columbia/TriStar)

"American Harvest" (2008)
Filmmaker Angelo Mancuso's informative 90-minute documentary travels to Florida, Arizona, Delaware and New York to explore the indispensable role Hispanic migrant workers and immigrants play in sustaining the U.S. agricultural industry. Mancuso interviews farmers and produce brokers who underscore the fact that few native Americans are willing to engage in the picking, cleaning and packaging of the fruits and vegetables that keep our supermarket shelves full. For Mexicans and other Latin Americans, on the other hand, a field job in this country can offer the chance to earn in an hour what they would earn in a day at home. Given that agribusiness would grind to a halt without such workers, those providing them with support, like Caroline Isaacs of the Tucson, Ariz., branch of the American Friends Service Committee, plead for sensible and humane immigration law reform. Mancuso also visits Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Immokalee, Fla., which serves the spiritual needs of the area's Hispanic laborers. Barry Moreno, librarian and historian of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum in New York Harbor, places the contemporary immigrant's experience within a broader historical context. (www.americanharvestmovie.com)

"An American Werewolf in London" (1981)
Trashy, sardonically muddled horror show by writer-director John Landis attempts to combine comedy and fright with a dash of steamy sex. The result is a squalid mess. Contains violence and explicit sex. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

"A Mighty Heart" (2007)
Tense recounting of the 2002 kidnapping of and frantic search for Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl (Dan Futterman) in Karachi, Pakistan, as seen through the eyes of his pregnant wife, Mariane (Angelina Jolie), also a journalist. Director Michael Winterbottom superbly captures the tumult, and without histrionics (except for one searing outpouring of grief), deftly embodies the courageous Mariane Pearl who, after the tragic events, refused to succumb to bitterness or vengeance. Several uses of the f-word under duress and a few other crude or crass words, fleeting newsreel footage of bombings and some dead bodies including a grim morgue image, a discreet torture scene, a brief nongraphic bedroom scene and a verbal description of Pearl's gruesome death. The good-looking DVD includes a 30-minute making-of documentary, and short pieces on the Daniel Pearl Foundation and the Committee to Protect Journalists. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Paramount Home Entertainment)

"Annapolis" (2006)
Diverting but derivative drama about a scrappy shipyard worker (an appealing James Franco), who, after being accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy, must prove his mettle while training for the school's boxing tournament against his no-nonsense drill instructor (Tyrese Gibson). However, director Justin Lin's "An Officer and a Gentleman" retread is hollow and formulaic. Brutal boxing sequences, an attempted suicide, some sexually crude language and humor, as well as profanity. The anamorphic DVD includes seven deleted scenes with audio commentary; a "making of" featurette; and another on the boxing sequences. Audio commentary by Lin and others from the creative team. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Touchstone Home Entertainment).

"An Awfully Big Adventure" (1995)
Dark, muddled tale of backstage romances set in 1947 Liverpool where a dramatic troupe, headed by a cruelly arrogant director (Hugh Grant), is joined by a starry-eyed adolescent (Georgina Cates) who's seduced by the lead actor (Alan Rickman), with devastating consequences. Directed by Mike Newell, the unappealing story of manipulative adults and vulnerable adolescents offers a poorly focused mix of strained drama and mean-spirited comedy. Brief bedroom scenes with nudity, frequent sexual innuendo, fleeting violence and an instance of rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted.

"Amistad" (1997)
Uneven dramatization of the 1839 legal battle over the fate of 53 Africans who massacre the crew of a Spanish slave ship, then are captured by an American naval vessel and put on trial for murder and piracy in a case that ultimately reaches the Supreme Court, where former President John Quincy Adams (Anthony Hopkins) defends their right to freedom. Director Steven Spielberg's ambitious attempt to re-examine the contradictions of a society which proclaimed the equality of all and yet accepted slavery succeeds in dramatizing the obvious injustices done the enslaved Africans (led by Djimon Hounsou), but the legal and political issues argued in the lengthy case are treated in stiff historical tableaus. Some gory violence, brutalizing conditions of slavery and brief frontal nudity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (DreamWorks)

"Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy" (2004)
lame spoof set in the era of 1970s' male-dominated TV newscasts in which a pompous San Diego anchorman (Will Ferrell) loses his heart and then his job to a more competent blonde newcomer (Christina Applegate) set on becoming a network anchor. Writer-director Adam McKay's underperforming comedy mocks chauvinist behavior but the slack script's exaggerated stereotypes are dopey without being funny. An implied affair, several sexual references and crude expressions, occasional profanity and an instance of rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (DreamWorks)

"Anna Karenina" (1997)
Opulent adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's 19th-century novel of czarist Russia contrasts the hard-won love story of an eventually happy couple (Alfred Molina and Mia Kirshner) with the doomed romance of a married woman (Sophie Morceau) who forsakes husband and child to run off with a wealthy officer (Sean Bean). Screenwriter-director Bernard Rose's elaborate period piece is visually lush in portraying the hypocrisy of class distinctions and exploring characters who question the morality of their actions. Brief violence, fleeting bedroom scene and a suicidal character's drug dependency. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (WGBH)

"Angels in America" (2003)
An ambitious, compelling and stirring television adaptation of Tony Kushner's award-winning theatrical production, originally on Broadway in 1993 and 1994. Well-written, timely and poignant, the play hit upon many controversial themes as the new millennium approached: the gay lifestyle and the advent of AIDS in America, the Reagan era, apocalyptic fears, religion and a time-worn human quest to define heaven while grappling with mortality. Directed by Mike Nichols, the television film is true to the play, with excellent production values and a superb cast.: Patrick Wilson, Mary-Louise Parker, Justin Kirk, Al Pacino, Emma Thompson, Meryl Streep and Jeffrey Wright. One cannot write off a play that presents such affecting physical and spiritual anguish, yet "Angels in America" has flaws and numerous troubling aspects that would make many Catholic viewers unable to endure it. An unqualified recommendation is therefore difficult, but there is value in such a spectacularly mounted production that presents much thought-provoking fodder. (HBO)

"Annie Get Your Gun" (1950)
Big and brassy version of the Irving Berlin musical in which rustic Annie Oakley (Betty Hutton) gets some polish working with Frank Butler (Howard Keel) in a sharpshooting act, then finds fame and finally gets her man (Butler) after Buffalo Bill (Louis Calhern) makes her a star in his Wild West Show. Directed by George Sidney, this show has lots of stunt riding, staged Indian attacks and shoot-outs which make a suitable backdrop for Hutton's overcharged performance, with the result memorable chiefly for its songs ranging from the romantic "The Girl That I Marry" to the comedic "Doing What Comes Naturally" and "Anything You Can Do," and the signature tune, "There's No Business Like Show Business." Romantic complications. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Annie Hall" (1977)
Director Woody Allen's romantic comedy about an on-again, off-again relationship between a Jewish comedian from New York (Allen) and a WASP from the Midwest (Diane Keaton). Although the movie is frequently very funny and has a touch of humanity lacking in Allen's earlier work, it falls far short of its more ambitious intention of making a serious statement about human relationships. Some rough language and much humor derived from sexual matters. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (United Artists)

"Antwone Fisher" (2002)
Inspirational true-life story of a troubled naval recruit (Derek Luke) who with the help of a Navy psychiatrist (Denzel Washington) learns to cope with the emotional devastation wreaked by childhood rejection and physical abuse. Despite a sometimes predictable narrative, Washington's directorial debut is a moving account of strength and survival, as well as a testament to the nobility of spirit inherent in every person. Some violence including depictions of child abuse, an implied sexual encounter and minimal rough language and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Fox)

"Antz" (1998)
Computer-animated tale of an ant colony in which a whiny worker ant (voice of Woody Allen) sets his sights on the ant queen's sassy daughter (voice of Sharon Stone) and defies his lowly status by becoming a warrior ant out to save the colony from the machinations of its dictatorial General (voice of Gene Hackman). Directors Eric Darnell and Tim Johnson provide the animation with a three-dimensional look, but the story about following one's dreams is on the bland side. Some crude expressions and fleeting cartoon violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Universal)

"Antwone Fisher" (2002)
Inspirational true-life story of a troubled naval recruit (Derek Luke) who with the help of a Navy psychiatrist (Denzel Washington) learns to cope with the emotional devastation wreaked by childhood rejection and physical abuse. Despite a sometimes predictable narrative, Washington's directorial debut is a moving account of strength and survival, as well as a testament to the nobility of spirit inherent in every person. Some violence including depictions of child abuse, an implied sexual encounter and minimal rough language and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Fox)

"Anything But Love" (2003)
Modestly charming tale of a struggling cabaret singer (co-writer Isabel Rose) torn between her corporate lawyer fiance (Cameron Bancroft) and a destitute musician (Andrew McCarthy) who shares her love of a bygone musical era. Co-written and directed by Robert Cary, the film's romantic predictability is balanced by its low-budget plucky spirit, colorful production design and appealing follow-your-dream theme. Occasional profanity and fleeting homosexual innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Wellspring)

"Anything Else" (2003)
Romantic comedy about an aspiring New York writer's (Jason Biggs) rocky love affair with a sexually free-spirited ingenue (Christina Ricci). Though frequently funny, the film, written and directed by Woody Allen (who also appears in a supporting role), retreads material from many of Allen's earlier movies, and its observations about interpersonal relationships are undermined by the filmmaker's angry, fatalistic cynicism. A nihilistic view of morality, several sexual encounters, recurring sexually crude and religiously irreverent humor, an instance of drug abuse, as well as a few instances of profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

"Anything Goes" (1956)
So-so musical in which a veteran performer (Bing Crosby) agrees to team with a rising newcomer (Donald O'Connor), then each signs a different leading lady (Mitzi Gaynor and Jeanmaire, respectively) while vacationing in Europe, but they resolve the mix-up on the voyage home. Directed by Robert Lewis from Sidney Sheldon's leaden adaptation of the Broadway classic, the result lumbers along with stilted production numbers, surprisingly few laughs and even the few Cole Porter songs from the original seem flat. Romantic complications and some sexual innuendo. The DVD features a terrific looking letterboxed print, but no extras. Strangely, there are no chapter stops for the musical numbers, only for the dramatic scenes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Paramount)

"Apollo 13 (Imax Format)" (2002)
The rerelease of the 1995 Academy Award-winning movie is changed only in that the screen image is up to eight stories high, allowing for some startling vistas and close-ups, although panning shots look momentarily blurry. The original capsule review follows: Fact-based story of the April 1970 moon launch aborted on its third day in space after an incapacitating problem diminished the oxygen, power and computer systems, making the safe return of the three astronauts (Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon) an almost insurmountable problem for Houston Mission Control. Director Ron Howard keeps emotional tensions taut and suspense levels high throughout this salute to the courage and perseverance of all involved in the dicey rescue mission. Fleeting sexual innuendo and minor profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Universal)

"Apocalypto" (2006)
Visually bold but extremely bloody action-adventure set in 15th-century Central America about the desperate odyssey of a jungle tribesman (Rudy Youngblood) to get back to his pregnant wife (Dalia Hernandez) and child after he and other members of his tribe are taken captive by the ruling Mayans following the massacre of his village. In what is essentially a chase movie, director Mel Gibson impressively re-creates the world of the Mayans -- the sights, sounds and savagery -- using an indigenous cast speaking entirely in Mayan dialects, but the intoxicating imagery and human drama are undermined by so much gore that, even if historically accurate, the cumulative result registers as gratuitous. Intense and graphic violence, including scenes of slaughter, human sacrifice, beheadings and a man being mauled by a jaguar, disturbing images, some sexual humor and innuendo, a suggested marital encounter, partial nudity, an instance of rough language and a few crude expressions. The sharp DVD has good-natured, interesting commentary by Gibson and writer and co-producer Farhad Safinia, an informative 25-minute making-of documentary, and a brief deleted scene (though "snippet" would be more accurate). The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Touchstone Home Entertainment).

"Apostolic Fathers: Handing On the Faith" (2007)
Energetic 90-minute examination of the lives, teachings and ultimate martyrdoms of five of the earliest Fathers of the Church. Born into the first or second generation to receive the Gospel message, the so-called "Apostolic Fathers" learned the faith from the apostles themselves, bore witness to it in their writings -- many of which survive -- and offered the ultimate sacrifice for it by laying down their lives under pagan persecution. Affable, anything-for-a-laugh host Steven Ray (given to pratfalls and silly hats), whose own conversion to the Catholic faith was heavily influenced by the writings of the fathers, takes viewers on a journey around the Mediterranean, from the Holy Land through Turkey to Italy and southern France. As he tells the stories of Sts. Clement, Ignatius, Polycarp, Irenaeus and Justin Martyr, the documentary journeys to the ruins of the Roman world in which these holy men lived, enters the arenas where they were executed, and visits their tombs in ancient churches. It is one installment of a 10-part video series entitled "The Footprints of God: The Story of Salvation From Abraham to Augustine." DVD extras include excerpts from an interview with spiritual writer Father Benedict Groeschel, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, a 25-minute making-of film and a brief blooper reel. Also included is a print study guide. Spanish subtitles. (Ignatius Press/St. Joseph Productions) (www.ignatius.com)

"Appaloosa" (2008)
Well-acted throwback to the Westerns of yore as a city marshal (Ed Harris) and his deputy (versatile Viggo Mortensen) try to bring order to the titular fictional New Mexico town by daring to take a powerful rancher and gang leader (Jeremy Irons) into custody, while the sheriff's fickle fiancee (Renee Zellweger) brings minor triangular complications to the men's rock-solid alliance. Harris also co-wrote and directed this overlong but quality production adapted from a Robert B. Parker novel, and though it falls short of truly gripping there's much to admire. Moderate gun violence, vigilante justice, brief long-shot rear nudity, implied nonmarital relationships, some innuendo, one use of the F-word, and some other crude words and profanity. The DVD, which offers both the widescreen and full-screen versions, includes commentary by Harris and writer Robert Knott, additional scenes and four featurettes. Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Home Video; also available on Blu-ray)

"Aquamarine" (2006)
Sweetly told modern-day fairy tale about two 13-year-old best friends -- Claire (Emma Roberts) and Hailey (Joanna "JoJo" Levesque) -- who help a mermaid (Sara Paxton), washed ashore during a storm, experience true love in the hopes that the magic wish rewarded them will undo Hailey's impending move to Australia. With a delightful mix of fantasy, comedy and romance, director Elizabeth Allen's wholesome and warmly sentimental, if admittedly lightweight, effort scores points for admirably showing that authentic love can express itself in varied ways. Some mild sensuality and suggestiveness, a few crass expressions and innuendo. The widescreen DVD contains deleted scenes and three "making of" featurettes, as well as audio commentary by the director and cast members. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II - adults and adolescents. Motion Picture Association of America rating, PG -- parental guidance suggested (Fox Home Entertainment).

"Are We There Yet?" (2005)
Leaden road comedy about a smooth-talking skirt-chaser (Ice Cube) with no patience for kids who gets more than he bargained for when he falls for a pretty divorcee (Nia Long) and volunteers to taxi her two mischievous children (Philip Daniel Bolden and Aleisha Allen) from Portland, Ore., to Vancouver, British Columbia, where she is staying on business, so they can all be together on New Year's Eve. Directed by Brian Levant, this film runs out of gas early, leaving viewers to endure a bumpy ride of scatological sight gags and mean-spirited mishaps (making it unsuitable for younger adolescents) which, unfortunately, dampens its sincere, albeit sentimental, message about the importance of family and parenthood. Recurring crude humor and comic violence, and some mildly crass language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Arguing the World'' (1998)
Feature documentary on the life and times of writers Irving Kristol, Nathan Glazer, Daniel Bell and the late Irving Howe, all of whom attended New York's City College during the 1930s, then went their different ways in the political ferment of postwar America. Writer-director Joseph Dorman uses vintage newsreel footage as well as interviews with the writers and others in providing a nostalgic look at the urban culture from which they came as well as a lively chronicle of how their views grew increasingly conservative over the years. Deals with matters beyond the experience of youngsters. The DVD release includes an interview with Dorman. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (First Run Features)

"The Aristocats: Special Edition" (1970)
Animated Disney feature directed by Wolfgang Reitherman follows the adventures of a family of felines after they inherit the estate of their millionaire mistress, then are catnapped and ditched in the country but then rescued by a pair of bumbling hounds, a couple of giggling geese, a rodent named Roquefort and an alley cat named O'Malley. Enhanced by the voices of Eva Gabor, Phil Harris, Hermione Baddeley and Sterling Holloway, with four songs thrown in for good measure, the result, while not purr-fect, is plentifully pleasing. DVD extras include "The Great Cat Family," hosted by Walt Disney from his old TV show in 1956; a piece on the Sherman brothers, Disney tunesmiths who wrote the film's amiable songs; a scrapbook you can navigate with the remote; and the cartoon short "Bath Day." There's also a charming deleted song introduced by Richard Sherman (and sung by Baddeley), an option to play the film's four songs only, and kid-friendly games and activities. Spanish language option. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. (Buena Vista Home Entertainment)

"Around the Bend" (2004)
Offbeat but appealing story of intergenerational bonding as ex-con grandfather (Christopher Walken), single dad (Josh Lucas), and young son (Jonah Bobo) travel to Albuquerque spreading the ashes of great-grandfather Henry (Michael Caine). Though writer-director Jordan Roberts's film -- which, at its core, is all about reconciliation and forgiveness -- is not without its flaws, he has fashioned a winning film with excellent performances, touching sentiment, considerable humor, an eclectic soundtrack and pretty scenery to counterbalance what could otherwise have been a downbeat story. Some rough and crude language, brief bloody images, and an irreligious dispersal of ashes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Warner Bros.)

"Around the World in 80 Days" (2004)
Entertaining extravaganza set in Victorian times about an eccentric English inventor (Steve Coogan) who, along with his trusty, chop-socky valet (Jackie Chan), embarks on a globetrotting steam-age adventure in order to win an outrageous wager that they can do what the title says. Based on the classic yarn by Jules Verne, the film, directed by Frank Coraci, combines lavish action sequences, romance and madcap comedy in serving up a family-friendly spectacle that is both campy and clever -- and, as an added attraction, quite fun for all but the youngest viewers. Recurring action violence, some mildly crude language and humor, and brief drunkenness. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Buena Vista)

"Arthur 2: On the Rocks" (1988)
Comedy sequel about the perpetually drunk millionaire wastrel (Dudley Moore) whose marriage to a perky waitress-shoplifter (Liza Minnelli) is threatened by a tycoon (Stephen Elliott) and his daughter (Cynthia Sikes). Though director Bud Yorkin adds some weight with a subplot about the couple's adoption of a baby, alcoholism is no laughing matter. Some vulgar language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Warner Bros.)

"The Astaire and Rogers Collection: Volume One"
Long-awaited collection of Fred and Ginger's best films, featuring sparkling prints of arguably their best films, cogent feature-length commentary on three of them, and a vintage musical short, a cartoon and a featurette for each, with everything beautifully restored and packaged. Excellent family viewing. (Warner Bros.)

The collection includes:

"The Barclays of Broadway" (1949)
When illness forced Judy Garland out of this MGM Charles Walters-directed film, Astaire teamed with old partner Rogers after 10 years. It was the last one they'd make together (and the only one in color), playing a married musical comedy team, with the wife having aspirations to break up the act and be a "tragic" dramatic actress. Entertaining musical numbers, though not the equal of their earlier work at RKO. No commentary. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

 "Follow the Fleet" (1936)
Sturdy musical about an easygoing sailor (Astaire) trying to win back his former hoofing partner (Rogers) while her schoolteacher sister (Harriet Hilliard) pines for his shipboard buddy (Randolph Scott). Directed by Mark Sandrich; the appealing characters make the thin plot worth following, helped by some wry humor, delightful dance routines and lively Irving Berlin songs. Romantic complications. No commentary. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

 "Shall We Dance" (1937)
Thin musical about ballet dancer (Astaire) and musical revue star (Rogers) who team for a Broadway show, then get married in name only to avoid a scandal, but true love predictably wins out in the end. Directed by Mark Sandrich, the story creaks with contrived complications but the song-and-dance numbers are first-rate. Commentary by pianist Kevin Cole and Tin Pan Alley tunesmith Hugh Martin. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

 "Swing Time" (1936)
Down-on-his-luck hoofer (Astaire) rides the rails to New York, teams with a comely dance instructor (Rogers) and they score as the town's top dancing duo in such numbers as "Waltz in Swing Time" and Astaire's solo showstopper, "Bojangles of Harlem." Director George Stevens keeps the pair's romantic misunderstandings light and lively, gets strong comic relief from Victor Moore and Helen Broderick, and effortlessly stages such songs as "A Fine Romance" and "The Way You Look Tonight." Elegant entertainment. Commentary by Astaire expert John Mueller and a featurette. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

 "Top Hat" (1935)
Stylish musical romance between a hoofer (Astaire) and a socialite (Rogers) starts with comic misunderstandings in London, then goes on to ever more zany encounters in Venice. Director Mark Sandrich keeps the lightweight proceedings on the boil, with the dance routines and Irving Berlin songs providing substance. Sexual innuendo and frivolous treatment of marriage. The DVD has interesting commentary by Astaire's daughter, Ava Astaire McKenzie, and dance film historian Larry Billman, plus a featurette, a Bob Hope short and the cartoon "Page Miss Glory." The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

"Carefree" (1938)
Wacky musical comedy about a psychiatrist (Astaire) whose best friend (Ralph Bellamy) asks him to treat his marriage-shy girlfriend (Rogers) but matters get complicated when the patient falls for the doctor. Directed by Mark Sandrich, the thin plot takes some very giddy turns, with the added bonus of appealing Irving Berlin tunes, including "I Used to Be Color Blind" danced in slow motion by Rogers and Astaire, as well as Astaire's standout syncopated solo on the golf links (A-I).

"Flying Down to Rio" (1933)
Wacky musical comedy in which a bandleader (Gene Raymond) takes a job in Rio de Janeiro where he unknowingly romances the fiancee (Dolores Del Rio) of a pal (singer Raul Roulien). Directed by Thornton Freeland, the proceedings are dominated by a genial pair of hoofers (Astaire and Rogers) who stage the show-stopping finale with showgirls performing on the wings of biplanes. Stylized violence, romantic complications and innuendo (A-II).

"The Gay Divorcee" (1934)
Comic misunderstandings abound in this dated musical fluff about an American (Rogers) whose lawyer (Edward Everett Horton) hires a professional co-respondent to obtain a divorce in England, then mistakes an unwanted admirer (Astaire) for the unseen hireling. Director Mark Sandrich turns the farcical situation into a lighthearted musical comedy with charming songs and dances, notably "The Continental," and creaky comic routines. Comic treatment of the war between the sexes with divorce as a plot device (A-II).

"Roberta" (1935)
Adaptation of composer Jerome Kern's Broadway hit, here starring Irene Dunne and Randolph Scott as a Russian princess and an American football player who inherits a Parisian fashion business. William A. Seiter directs, and look closely and you'll spot a blonde Lucille Ball as a model. Songs include "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" and "I Won't Dance," and though Astaire and Rogers have only supporting roles they steal the picture (A-I).

"The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle" (1939)
Nostalgic musical biography of a vaudevillian (Astaire) and his bride (Rogers) who in 1911 team as ballroom dancers and become international favorites before Vernon's tragic death as an aviator in World War I. Director H.C. Potter's warm portrait of a loving couple is paced by elegant dance numbers, period songs and occasional comic relief (Edna May Oliver, Walter Brennan and Lew Fields). Old-fashioned family fare (A-I).

"Arctic Tale" (2007)
Queen Latifah delightfully narrates an absorbing story charting the parallel journeys of a polar bear cub and a walrus pup in the Arctic Circle from birth to maturity and showing how they manage to survive a changing environment with ever-decreasing ice seriously impeding both their natural habitat and their ability to obtain food. Co-directors and cinematographers Adam Ravetch and Sarah Robertson have fashioned an impressively photographed "fable" out of the challenges facing these creatures in light of global warming, rendering the film a vivid animal counterpart to Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth." Though restrained in its presentation, the film includes some images of animal violence and death, perhaps precluding viewing by the very young. The DVD edition includes both a making-of featurette, and another kid-friendly one on polar bear spotting. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (Paramount Home Entertainment)

"Art School Confidential" (2006)
Oddball story that can't decide if it's a touching coming-of-age story, gross-out frat movie, murder mystery or mordant black comedy, though it does make some sharply satiric points about the art world. Director Terry Zwigoff's sporadically amusing film adapted by Daniel Clowes from his comic strip concerns a sensitive art school student (Max Minghella), smitten with an attractive artist's model (Sophia Myles) and struggling to find his artistic voice amid loutish roommates, colorful teachers (John Malkovich and Angelica Huston), and an embittered and alcoholic failed artist (Jim Broadbent), against the backdrop of a mysterious strangler killing off the students. Pervasive profanity, rough language and vulgarity, full-frontal male and partial female art-model nudity, much sexual banter and innuendo, a couple of minor gay characters, and a stylized strangling. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment).

"The Assassination Bureau" (1969)
Tongue-in-cheek British comedy set in the early 1900s about an international organization of killers-for-hire that is commissioned by a neophyte reporter (Diana Rigg) to kill their own leader (Oliver Reed). Good cast, marvelous settings but Basil Dearden's direction is rather uncertain in its mixture of slapstick and satire. Comic violence.      The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating was M -- parental guidance suggested, but all ages admitted. (Paramount)

"The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (2007)
Unusual and compelling Western dramatizing the circumstances that lead up to the shooting of notorious outlaw Jesse James (Brad Pitt) by Robert Ford (Oscar-nominated Casey Affleck), a member of his own gang, and the publicity generated afterward. Writer-director Andrew Dominik tells the story intelligently at a leisurely but controlled pace with penetrating close-ups of the excellent cast -- Affleck is particularly outstanding -- to probe psychological motivations, while the relatively restrained violence is presented with an admirable realism devoid of glamorization. Some crude language and profanity, innuendo, a nongraphic sexual encounter, several shooting deaths with blood and scenes of physical violence, suicide and brief rear male nudity. The standard DVD contains no extras but the picture quality is fine, while the HD/DVD combo edition contains a 30-minute documentary. Spanish titles available. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Warner Home Video)

"Assault on Precinct 13" (2005)
Brutal and violent -- though reasonably gripping -- story of a desolate Detroit police precinct under siege by crooked police who are out to silence a criminal (Laurence Fishburne) incarcerated there, to cover up what he knows about corruption within their ranks, effecting an unusual alliance between the police and criminals within the station house who must unite to defend themselves. Jean-Francois Richet's remake of the 1976 film features good performances by Fishburne, Ethan Hawke and Brian Dennehy, but the bloodshed and violence seem unnecessarily explicit, and the improbable story calls for major suspension of disbelief. Graphic and bloody violence and related gore, much rough, crude and profane language, and some sexual innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

"Assisted Living" (2005)
Poignant docudrama that follows a 27-year-old, pot-smoking slacker (Michael Bonsignore) through his final day as a janitor at a nursing home, during which he gains deeper maturity through an unlikely friendship he develops with an elderly resident (Maggie Riley) who is suffering from the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and mistakes him for her absent son. Incorporating footage of real residents and staff at the facility where it was shot into the fictional story, this modest film by first-time director Elliot Greenebaum manages despite its no-frills look to offer a moving meditation on loneliness and the human need for contact and compassion. Some recreational drug usage and brief crude expressions. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Hart Sharp)

"August Rush" (2007)
Unabashedly romantic fable in which an 11-year-old musical prodigy (Freddie Highmore) embarks on a search for the cellist mother (Keri Russell) and rock-singer father (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) from whom he was separated at birth. Director Kristen Sheridan's warm-hearted tribute to the power of music blithely eschews all connection to reality, and will likely strike some as charmingly poetic and others as merely naive. An implied premarital sexual encounter, one use of profanity, one use of the s-word and one crass expression. The double-sided DVD (widescreen and full-screen) includes additional worthy scenes (though one contains an additional profanity). Spanish-language, subtitle options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Warner Home Video; also available on Blu-ray)

"Aurora Borealis" (2006)
Unmotivated Minnesota man (an appealing Joshua Jackson) takes on a maintenance job at an assisted living facility to be near his ailing grandfather (Donald Sutherland) and falls in love with his granddad's home health aide (Juliette Lewis). James Burke's downbeat film scores points for its compassionate portrayal of the elderly and their need for care and the acting is generally good. The script goes beyond empathizing with the grandfather's fervent wish to be spared a debilitating decline into almost making a case for euthanasia, despite a morally sound ending on all fronts. Pervasive rough and crude language, euthanasia theme, adultery, acceptance of premarital sex, some heavy groping and innuendo, a couple of violent brawls and a drug reference. The good-looking anamorphic DVD includes interviews with the actors, writer Brent Boyd, Burke and the producers. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Liberation Entertainment/Regent Releasing).

"Australia" (2008)
Sprawling, generally entertaining three-hour epic set just before and after the bombing of Pearl Harbor as a starchy English widow (Nicole Kidman) takes over her late husband's cattle station down under, and falls in love with a rough-hewn drover (Hugh Jackman) whom she hires to help drive cattle to sale ahead of a rival magnate's (Bryan Brown) villainous henchman (David Wenham). Despite some fanciful plot contrivances, director Baz Luhrmann's lavish homage to classic epics and Westerns brings back old-style Hollywood romance, courtesy of its magnetic leads, and carries an admirable message about racial tolerance. Moderate action violence, a mostly implied nonmarital relationship including a very brief sexual encounter without nudity, mild innuendo, one use of the F-word and some Aboriginal mysticism; acceptable for older teens. Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment; also available on Blu-ray)

"Autumn Spring" (2003)
Tender, bittersweet comedy about an old man (famed Czech actor Vlastimil Brodsky) who invents various colorful personalities in order to come to terms with his own mortality. Despite its at times heavy-handed fatalism, director Vladimir Michalek elicits virtuoso performances from his cast in this minor gem, resulting in a poignant meditation on life's fragility and fleetingness. Subtitles. Minimal rough language, as well as emotionally complex themes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (First Look)

"The Aviator" (2004)
Absorbing and entertaining epic detailing the dramatic glory days of legendary billionaire Howard Hughes, in his myriad roles as aviation innovator and visionary, daredevil pilot, Hollywood producer and airline tycoon, while charting his well-publicized relationships with Katharine Hepburn and Ava Gardner, and ultimately his appearance before the Senate on charges of defrauding the public through wartime airplane contracts. This film is a career high point for both director Martin Scorsese and star Leonardo DiCaprio, who is onscreen almost every minute and gives a highly charismatic performance; and the supporting cast is mostly first-rate. Recurring profanity and intermittent crude expressions, and an instance of rough language, as well as implied sexual situations and innuendo, a violent plane crash and brief rear nudity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Bros.)

B
"Babel" (2006)
Quietly powerful film charting three interconnected stories: an American couple (Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett) stranded in Morocco; the deaf-mute teenage daughter (Rinko Kikuchi) of a widower father (Koji Yakusho) in Tokyo; and a Mexican governess (Adriana Barraza) and her nephew (Gael Garcia Bernal) who take her two young charges across the border. Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's somber film imparts an admirable message about a shared global humanity and the senselessness of violence has superbly empathetic performances by an international cast, and ultimately packs an emotional wallop. Partially subtitled. Some rough language and profanity, crude expressions, some violence including a killing, full female nudity, some discreet sexual elements, and alcohol and drug use. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Paramount Home Video).

"Baby Geniuses" (1999)
Comic misfire in which a megalomaniacal doctor (Kathleen Turner) intent on raising brilliant toddlers in a secret underground lab is outsmarted by 2-year-old twins who wreck her elaborate plans. Director Bob Clark's insipid take on babies as miniature, wise-cracking adults is unappealing, dull and overacted by both Turner and her clueless assistant, Christopher Lloyd. Some cartoon violence and mayhem and a few crude remarks. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Backbeat" (1994)
Tragic, fact-based story of Stu Sutcliffe (Stephen Dorff), one of the original Beatles and close friend of John Lennon (Ian Hart), who left the band to remain in Hamburg with his fiancee (Sheryl Lee) and hopes of a painting career, but died months later of a brain hemorrhage. Director Iain Softley's downbeat movie is little more than a routine buddy story which fails to capture the quirky energy of the Beatles as they first burst onto the international scene. Restrained bedroom scenes, intermittent nudity, brief violence and drug use and much rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

Backdraft" (1991)
Deep-rooted conflicts boil over when a rookie Chicago firefighter (William Baldwin) is placed under the command of his estranged brother (Kurt Russell) during the investigation of a string of arson-related murders. With the terrifying nature of fire emerging as the real star of the movie, director Ron Howard ambitiously tackles a relationship story, a murder mystery and a special-effects action movie with modest success. Some grisly shots of charred bodies, very brief nudity, fleeting sexual innuendo, occasional fisticuffs and intermittent rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

"Bad Boys II" (2003)
      Mindlessly violent action flick in which Miami narcotics cops (Will Smith and Martin Lawrence) must bring down a Cuban drug lord (Jordi Molla) smuggling millions of dollars worth of Ecstasy pills into the United States while protecting an undercover DEA agent (Gabrielle Union) in over her head.
      Director Michael Bay's protracted sequel visually assaults with its senseless, slow-motion gunplay and explosions while the strained plot is a pastiche of extraneous scenes. Relentlessly stylized graphic violence, a sexual encounter, recreational drug abuse and constant rough language with some profanity.     The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Columbia/Tristar)

"Bad Education" (2004)
Triangular drama set in Spain about a young, gay filmmaker (Fele Martinez) who, after encountering a former classmate (Gael Garcia Bernal) -- now a struggling actor -- with whom he had once been enamored, decides to make a movie about their youthful experiences at a Catholic boarding school, in particular the pederast predations by their priest-headmaster (Daniel Gimenez-Cacho). Stylishly directed by Pedro Almodovar, the plot takes classic film-noir conventions and gives them a homoerotic twist. In touching on sexual abuse by the clergy, an unflattering -- and unbalanced -- picture of Catholic priests inevitably emerges; even if Almodovar's intent was to use the crimes as a catalyst for the story rather than as a weapon to target the church for condemnation. Subtitles. The film has been issued in its original NC-17 version, and an R-rated version that modifies some of the sexual content that earned the film its O classification. Almodovar provides full-length commentary in Spanish, but with English translation of his insightful remarks. A few unremarkable deleted scenes are included as a bonus, as well as red-carpet footage of the American Film Institute Film Festival with Bernal, Almodovar and Penelope Cruz, and a brief making-of featurette. Several intense homosexual encounters, implied pedophilia, murder without consequence, recurring drug content, transvestism, two boys masturbating, brief nudity, fleeting violence, instances of irreverent humor and frequent rough and crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is NC-17 -- no one 17 or under admitted. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Bad Santa" (2003)
Abrasive black comedy about a self-loathing safecracker (Billy Bob Thornton) who, along with his dwarf accomplice (Tony Cox), poses as a department store Santa to rob shopping malls of their holiday loot -- that is, until a friendless, overweight boy (Brett Kelly) stirs his booze-soaked conscience. Director Terry Zwigoff should expect coal in his stocking for assaulting viewers with a nonstop barrage of obscenities and vulgar raunchiness that leave Santa's red suit soiled -- in more ways than one. By taking the "merry" out of Christmas and portraying its sleazy St. Nick stand-in as a foul-mouthed, drunken, chain-smoking, suicidal sexual predator, the film undermines its tacked-on redemptive message. Excessive rough and crude language and profanity, recurring lewd sexual encounters, much crass humor, pervasive alcohol abuse, an attempted suicide and some violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Buena Vista)

Bait" (2000)
Insubstantial seriocomic actioner in which a bumbling petty thief (Jamie Foxx) is used by the government to trap a computer mastermind (Doug Hutchison) who stole gold bullion worth millions from the Federal Reserve. It's style over substance in director Antoine Fuqua's slick flick which starts off promisingly then fizzles with a scrambled script, one-note characters and a too-neat Hollywood ending. A sexual encounter, intermittent violence and recurring rough language with fleeting profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (BFS)

"The Ballad of Jack & Rose" (2005)
Offbeat, slow-moving film about a nonconformist with a bad heart condition (Daniel Day-Lewis) who lives alone with his teenage daughter (Camilla Belle) on a former island commune, but then brings the woman (Catherine Keener) he has been dating into the house, along with her teenage sons, disrupting the delicate balance. Written and directed by Rebecca Miller, the film features an accomplished performance by Day-Lewis, but the vaguely incestuous undertones between father and daughter and a scene where the daughter invites one of the boys to deflower her make for fitfully distasteful viewing. Some rough and crude language, sexual situations and innuendo, a brief incestuous kiss, some talk of suicide, partial nudity, some drug material. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (IFC)

"The Ballad of the Sad Cafe" (1991)
Disappointing adaptation of Carson McCullers' twisted love story of a strong, independent woman (Vanessa Redgrave) living in the rural South during the Depression whose downfall is engineered by the dwarfed hunchback (Cork Hubbert) she takes into her home and the husband (Keith Carradine) she threw out on their wedding night. Directed by Simon Callow, the narrative is slow and portentous, the characters unappealing and the conclusion heavy-handed and unenlightening. Brutalizing fistfight between the protagonists and minimal rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Home Vision)

"Ballets Russes" (2005)
Superb dance film about the trendsetting troupe that began with the legendary choreographer Serge Diaghilev (and the participation of great artists like Picasso, Nijinsky and Stravinksy), and after his death came under the leadership of autocratic Russian Col. Wasily de Basil with the name Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo, and how, after some internecine struggle, splintered into two troupes, one keeping that name, the other calling itself the Original Ballet Russes. Having interviewed many of the great dancers at a Ballets Russes reunion in 2000, filmmakers Dan Geller and Dayna Goldfine have juxtaposed priceless footage and still photographs of the great dancers in their youthful primes, making an incredibly poignant contrast. The various rivalries between the companies, and individual choreographers like Leonide Massine and George Balanchine give the narrative heightened dramatic interest. Pitch-perfect narration by actress Marion Seldes. The anamorphic DVD features numerous extras, including additional footage, stills galleries and a 12-page booklet by New York Times dance writer Jack Anderson. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (Zeitgeist Video).

"Bambi" (1942)
Walt Disney's classic animated feature conveys the simplicity, charm and excitement of Felix Salten's novel, especially in its appealing characterization of Thumper, Flower and all the others who inhabit the young deer's forest world. The story has some intense moments, notably the forest fire sequence and the death of Bambi's mother, though in a context not beyond the resources of most young viewers. The DVD premiere of "Bambi" is all you could wish for: a pristine print with a more accurate color palette than even on the film's ballyhooed laserdisc incarnation, restored soundtrack (as well as alternate French and Spanish tracks), and multitudinous features spread over two discs. There are aural re-enactments of Walt Disney's story meetings -- lasting more than an hour -- wherein you can hear how the final film so closely mirrored the original concept. This, like the "Restoring Disney" feature on the second disc, is hosted by Patrick Stewart, who will play Bambi's father in the upcoming sequel, which gets its own plug in "The Legacy Continues" feature. There's a 53-minute "Making of Bambi" documentary; Walt Disney explaining on his television show how some of the film's effects were achieved; a look at the vast Disney archives where seemingly every scrap of Disney material is lovingly kept; a look at the actors who voiced the characters, including Thumper; and a couple of deleted scenes, though those are storyboard reconstructions rather than fully animated scenes. Add to all these a 1937 "Silly Symphony" that presaged some of Bambi's animation techniques, a 1942 time capsule, and a plethora of games and activities for the kids, and you have first-rate family entertainment. But even if there were no extra features, this is one of the true Disney masterpieces, and a must-have for the family library. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. (Buena Vista)

"Bambi II" (2005)
Touching, surprisingly good follow-up to the highly revered Disney classic "Bambi," with the story focusing on the period following the death of Bambi's mother. Here Bambi's father, The Great Prince (voice of Patrick Stewart), reluctantly agrees to nurture his offspring after no surrogate mother can be found, taking a "tough love" approach at first. Bambi (voice of Alexander Gould) is unsure of his father's love, but the inevitable bonding that ensues has echoes of "The Lion King." The plot is sound, and though the artwork is far less detailed than the richly designed original, it's still eye-filling, and the main characters -- including Bambi's friends Thumper (now with sisters), Flower and Faline -- are well-drawn. Strains of the original score and a couple of the songs hearken back to the beloved original, only slightly marred by some bland contemporary ballads. This coming-of-age story is almost good enough to have been released in theaters rather than direct to video. The DVD includes a making-of featurette with the animators paying due homage to the original, and the usual games and activities. Apart from the reference to the mother's death, and some scenes of peril from human hunters and their voracious dogs, which might frighten toddlers, this is fine entertainment for the kids and Disney buffs in general. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (Walt Disney Home Entertainment)

"The Band Wagon" (1953)
Classy backstage musical in which a Hollywood hoofer (Fred Astaire) tries to revive his flagging career by starring in a Broadway musical written by pals (Nanette Fabray and Oscar Levant), but the production fails after its pretentious director (Jack Buchanan) adds a serious Faustian theme and a temperamental ballet dancer (Cyd Charisse). Director Vincente Minnelli's loving spoof of show business serves up a delightful mix of Howard Dietz-Arthur Schwartz songs. Mild romantic complications. The deluxe two-DVD set includes an excellent documentary on the making of the film, a vintage one on Minnelli, a Cyd Charisse deleted number, a Jack Buchanan musical short, and commentary by Liza Minnelli and Michael Feinstein. Beautifully restored picture and sound. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Bangkok Dangerous" (2008)
Grim shoot-'em-up about a solitary hit man (Nicolas Cage) who travels to the titular city to carry out four contract killings for a local crime boss (Nirattisai Kaljareuk), but finds his emotional isolation thawed by his friendship for the petty thief (Shahkrit Yamnarm) he hires as an assistant and his feelings for a pretty pharmacy clerk (Charlie Young) who can neither hear nor speak. As directed by brothers Danny Pang Fat and Oxide Pang Chun, this remake of their 1999 Thai film features considerable violence and muddled moral values, with its hero instructing his protege in the art of killing even while ostensibly reassessing his own viciousness. Brief graphic sexual activity, upper female nudity, intense action violence with gore, suicide, and occasional rough and crude language. Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Lionsgate Home Entertainment; also available on Blu-ray)

"Barbra Streisand: The Television Specials" (1965-1973)
So why shouldn't a "nice Jewish girl" like Barbra Streisand be singing the ultimate Christian hymn in Central Park on a balmy summer night? Indeed, her heart-stopping version of "Silent Night" is only one of many transcendent moments on this most welcome boxed set of the lady's five acclaimed television specials which have finally made it to DVD. Critics in 1965 rolled out the superlatives when her first program (in black-and-white) -- revolutionary for the time, a one-person extravaganza with no guest stars -- first aired, and five Emmy Awards and a Peabody followed. The color follow-up, "Color Me Barbra," was scarcely less lauded. "The Belle of 14th Street," a vaudeville send-up, which added the novelty of guest stars (Jason Robards Jr. and John Bubbles, the original Sportin' Life in "Porgy & Bess," no less), was thought back then to be a bit of a misfire, though the songs are marvelous, and there's a priceless sequence with Streisand as an operatic diva dueting with herself as a young Irish boy in the audience on that old chestnut "Mother Machree." Critics were in her corner again when a one-hour distillation of that memorable Central Park concert was televised the following year. And, in her final hour, "Barbra Streisand ... and Other Musical Instruments," she performed with Ray Charles, kabuki woodblocks, and washing machines in a tuneful smorgasbord. All five specials have been splendidly restored, and provide ample proof of a prodigiously youthful talent that lives up to the oft-misused moniker of "God-given." (Warner Strategic Marketing/Rhino)

"Barbershop" (2002)
Set in Chicago's South Side, the enjoyable ensemble comedy has the owner (Ice Cube) of a local barbershop selling it to a sinister loan shark (Keith David), but then trying to buy it back once he realizes the shop's worth as a gathering place for the community. As directed by Tim Story, the film is flawed by silly stereotypes and predictability, but manages to be endearing as it touches on racism, the black man's place in society and the importance of fellowship. Some sexual innuendo, fleeting drug content and sporadic crass expressions and profanity with an instance of rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (MGM)

"The Batman: The Complete First Season" (2006)
The Bat is back in this action-packed animated series (currently airing on Kids' WB and cable's Cartoon Network). Departing from the vintage film noir moodiness of its lauded predecessor "Batman: The Animated Series" (1992-95), the newer series combines retro elements with a bolder, more vibrant look, strongly influenced by Japanese animation known as "anime" and less brooding in tone. It also reimagines several of the comic book's key characters. The slickly packaged collection contains all 13 episodes, charting the early years of billionaire Bruce Wayne's vigilante war on crime as the caped crusader. It also introduces many of the dark knight's colorful adversaries, including the Joker, Catwoman, the Penguin and Mr. Freeze, as well as lesser known villains like Bane and the Ventriloquist. Bonus features include a behind-the-scenes look, including interviews with creators and animators, two interactive "Batman Junior Detective Challenges" and a DVD-ROM for printable Gotham City Police badges and profiles of Batman's foes. The episodes contain some stylized violence. (Warner Home Video)

"Batman Begins" (2005)
Dark and brooding prequel that explains how Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) became the costumed crimefighter and reveals the "hidden years," detailing his training as a member of a clandestine order of ninja-like vigilantes, leading up to his donning the cape and cowl to become Gotham City's self-appointed guardian. Director Christopher Nolan goes for a more gritty "reality-based" approach, focusing on the psychological dimension of Bruce/Batman's inner conflict rather than comic-book heroics. Intense action violence, some frightening images and mature thematic elements, as well as a few crude expressions and an instance of profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Bros.)

"Battle of Britain" (1969)
With the fall of France in 1940, Great Britain stood alone against the might of the German air force. The movie pays tribute to the smaller number of British fighter pilots who, in the months that followed, downed so many planes that the Luftwaffe was unable to mount its massive raids. Laurence Olivier, Michael Redgrave and Trevor Howard star in this huge and impressive British production directed by Guy Hamilton. Wartime violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"The Beach" (2000)
A dissatisfying thrill-seeking drama about a restless American traveler (DiCaprio) who convinces a French couple (Guillaume Canet and Virginie Ledoyen) to journey with him to an idyllic, remote island off Thailand, but once there, they must pay a deadly price to keep the perfect beach a secret. Director Danny Boyle's visually beautiful but chaotic film becomes muddled as the beach's bohemian residents realize that evil exists even in paradise. Some gory violence including a suicide, a few shadowy sexual encounters with frontal nudity, some recreational drug abuse and recurring rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

"Because of Winn-Dixie" (2005)
Gentle and disarming story based on Kate DiCamillo's award-winning best-seller about a Baptist preacher (Jeff Daniels) and his little girl, Opal (AnnaSophia Robb), who move to a small Florida town, and the dog they take in. The dog becomes the catalyst for Opal to make friends with several of the town's outcasts: an ex-alcoholic recluse (Cicely Tyson), a fearful, spinsterish librarian (Eva Marie Saint) and a guitar-strumming pet store manager with a prison record (Dave Matthews). Wayne Wang's film is beautifully acted all around, and imparts a heart-tugging message about people's loneliness and need to connect, making satisfying entertainment for adults as well as children. The two-sided DVD -- which offers both wide and full screen versions-- includes detailed and amusing feature-length commentary by Daniels and producer Trevor Albert; scene-specific commentary by Robb to which children will respond; a brief gag reel; and two featurettes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Fox)

"Basic" (2003)
Unsatisfying military thriller in which an ex-Army Ranger (John Travolta) and a prickly Army captain (Connie Nielsen) must try to unravel the truth behind the Panama jungle deaths of a hated Special Forces sergeant (Samuel L. Jackson) and four trainees under him, while two survivors spin an elaborate series of stories about what happened. Director John McTiernan's macho action flick takes a "Rashomon"-like approach to the narrative, but the dozen characters, murky visuals and constant plot twists eventually become tedious. Recurring violence, much rough language and intermittent profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Beauty Shop" (2005)
Amiable comedy about a widowed mother (Queen Latifah) working as a hairdresser who, after a falling-out with the shop's owner, flamboyant Jorge (scene-stealing Kevin Bacon), opens her own establishment in the ghetto and, thanks to her styling prowess and warm-hearted people skills, overcomes myriad obstacles to success. Bille Woodruff's engaging film is a perfect showcase for the likable Latifah, the eclectic ensemble cast (including Alfre Woodard, Alicia Silverstone, Djimon Hounsou and Andie MacDowell) makes for interesting watching and, despite some salty street language and salon sex chatter, the movie imparts solid messages about loyalty, friendship and parenting. Some profanity, crude language and crass expressions, sexual innuendo and suggestive dancing. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (MGM)

"Becoming Jane" (2007)
Interesting speculative drama, based on only a few known facts, about the bittersweet romance between writer Jane Austen (Anne Hathaway) and an Irish lawyer (James McAvoy), and how the experience might have influenced her writings. Julian Jarrold directs with an authentic 18th-century feel, performances are good (with American Hathaway holding her own reasonably well among such British stalwarts as Maggie Smith, Julie Walters and the late Ian Richardson) and though the film is somehow not entirely satisfying it nonetheless holds your interest up to its bittersweet ending. Though possibly acceptable for older teens, this film contains a couple of boxing sequences, a frisky but nongraphic husband and wife encounter, some prostitutes, an implied premarital sexual encounter, mild innuendo and brief sexual allusions. Copious DVD extras include commentary by Jarrold, writer Kevin Hood and producer Robert Bernstein, a whopping 13 deleted scenes, a making-of featurette, and a feature allowing viewers to watch the film with educational pop-up facts and footnotes. Spanish language and titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Buena Vista Home Entertainment)

"Be Cool" (2005)
Flat follow-up to the 1994 comedy "Get Shorty" in which mobster-turned-movie producer Chili Palmer (John Travolta) -- having grown disenchanted with the film industry -- sets his streetwise sights on the music business, and agrees to manage a promising young singer (Christina Milian) who is tied in with shady record producers (Harvey Keitel and Vince Vaughn). Based on the Elmore Leonard novel and directed by F. Gary Gray, the stale sequel lacks the sharpness and satirical edge of the far superior "Shorty," resulting in a film that, despite a charismatic if retread performance by Travolta, is contrary to its title only lukewarm. The movie contains recurring violence, an implied sexual encounter, images of smoking, drug content, some vulgar gestures, and much rough and crude language and humor. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (MGM/UA)

"Bee Movie" (2007)
Generally delightful animated feature about a scrappy bee (voice of Jerry Seinfeld) who decides to sue the human race for stealing the honey manufactured by his hard-working bee brethren and brings the case to court, with the help of a sympathetic florist (Renee Zellweger). An often very funny script (by Seinfeld and others), terrific voice work from a cast including John Goodman, Chris Rock, Kathy Bates and many more, and ultimately a valuable ecological lesson, make this film -- directed by Simon J. Smith and Steve Hickner -- above-average family fare. Mild innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating was PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (DreamWorks)

"Be Kind, Rewind" (2008)
Zany, warmhearted comedy about a New Jersey video store worker (Mos Def) who comes up with a scheme to create amateur video versions of classic films when his bungling friend (Jack Black) accidentally erases all the tapes after the manager (Danny Glover) leaves town to investigate saving the building from demolition. Despite its intentionally rough-hewn, indie ambience, a wildly improbable plotline, and too much low-comedy shtick, writer-director Michel Gondry's valentine to filmmaking ultimately delivers a touching story of friendship, with a strong affirmation of community and good fellowship, as the townspeople rally to the aid of the threatened business. Some vulgar humor, brief sexual references and mild comic violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Home Video)

"Bee Movie" (2007)
Generally delightful animated feature about a scrappy bee (voice of Jerry Seinfeld) who decides to sue the human race for stealing the honey manufactured by his hard-working bee brethren with the help of a sympathetic florist (Renee Zellweger). An often very funny script (by Seinfeld and others), terrific voice work from the cast, and ultimately a valuable ecological lesson make this film -- directed by Simon J. Smith and Steve Hickner -- above-average family fare. Mild innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Paramount Home Entertainment)

"Bee Season" (2005)
Gently involving drama about a sixth-grade spelling prodigy (Flora Cross) whose father (Richard Gere), an academic who believes that words and letters "hold the secrets of the universe," obsessively tutors her for a national spelling bee to the detriment of his mentally unstable wife (Juliette Binoche) and religiously rebellious teenage son (Max Minghella). Co-directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel couple domestic dysfunction and Jewish mysticism, thoughtfully crafting an intelligent, finely acted and visually imaginative, but emotionally muted, exploration of faith and family. A sexual encounter, a scene involving a questionable distribution of Communion, and minimal rough and crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"Being Julia" (2004)
A few bright spots in an otherwise tedious adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham's novel, "Theatre," about a larger-than-life English stage actress (Annette Bening) who has an open marriage with her producer husband (Jeremy Irons), and takes up with an earnest young American accountant (Shaun Evans) in her husband's employ. Hungarian director Istvan Szabo is no stranger to period drama, but was perhaps the wrong choice for a film that doesn't quite ring true in its depiction of the 1938 period or very English locale. Nor is American Bening completely convincing either, in spite of some effective moments. A few instances of crude language, casual depiction of extramarital sex and an instance of rear nudity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Bella" (2007)
Sweetly sentimental story about an unmarried New York waitress (an especially fine Tammy Blanchard) who loses her job after becoming pregnant, and her restaurant's empathetic chef (Mexican soap favorite Eduardo Verastegui) -- an ex-soccer star whose career ended after his car fatally struck a child -- who gives the young woman emotional support, takes her to visit his loving family and gently tries to persuade her to keep the baby. Director and co-writer Alejandro Monteverde's impressive feature film debut is sometimes dramatically slack and implausible, but the sensitive performances, positive depiction of the chef's warm Latino family and, most of all, its affirmative pro-life message -- along with themes of self-forgiveness, reconciliation and redemption -- should resonate with Catholic viewers. Partially subtitled. A couple of crass words, a child's death, a drug reference, and the out-of-wedlock theme aside, the film is admirably free of objectionable elements. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Lionsgate)

"Bells Are Ringing" (1960)
Faithful adaptation of Broadway musical about an overly helpful telephone answering service operator (Judy Holliday) who gets involved with her customers' lives, and falls in love with one of her clients, a composer (Dean Martin) struggling with writers' block, while fending off the police who think service is a front for illegal activities, including a bookie operation. Director Vincente Minnelli failed to open the movie up cinematically and the result is rather static, but Holliday's performance is treasurable and the Jule Styne-Comden & Green songs top notch. The DVD release includes three rare cut numbers, including one each for Holliday and Martin, and one with an almost unrecognizable Hal Linden, then making his film debut, and a short documentary about the making of the film, hosted by Linden. Excellent print quality. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Beneath the Planet of the Apes" (1970)
Lame sequel has an astronaut (James Franciscus) reaching the bombed-out earth, where the ape people are warring with the subterranean remnants of the human race -- a colony of skinless people who worship "the Holy Bomb'' and these deformed humans destroy the planet in the final scene. Directed by Ted Post, it lacks the wit, excitement and ingenuity of the original's warning to warmongering, damage-prone humanity. Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment; also available on Blu-ray)

"Benji Off the Leash!" (2004)
Family-friendly drama which finds the eponymous mutt teaming up with a shaggy stray and a young boy (Nick Whitaker) to save an ailing dog from a squalid backyard puppy mill run by a greedy breeder (Chris Kendrick). As directed by "Benji" creator Joe Camp, neither the film's heartwarming message nor its adorably scruffy stars can hide the doggone awful script and acting -- four-legged performers excluded. Some mildly crude expressions, implied spousal abuse and images of animal cruelty. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II - adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Goodtimes)

"Ben-Hur" (Collector's Edition) (1959)
Director William Wyler's classic Hollywood epic follows the Jewish prince of the title (Charlton Heston) after he's betrayed by his Roman boyhood friend (Stephen Boyd) and subjected to much misery until finally achieving retribution for all his suffering. The narrative's melodrama is transformed by the grand scale of its spectacle, especially the chariot race, and by the stirring performances of its principals. The handsomely packaged four-disc collector's edition is a must have for any home film library. Discs one and two contain a glorious digital transfer that restores the lavish movie to its original grandeur and proper widescreen format (too narrow for some tastes), with audio commentary by Heston and film historian T. Gene Hatcher. The box set also includes a beautifully remastered transfer of the 1925 silent version starring Ramon Novarro. Worth the price alone, disc four contains two documentaries tracing the history of the film -- from the strongly religious Lew Wallace novel (subtitled "A Tale of the Christ") through its earlier stage and screen adaptations -- while examining its cinematic importance and influence on moviemaking (including interviews with current Hollywood directors like Ridley Scott and George Lucas), vintage newsreels of the film's star-studded New York and Hollywood premieres -- as well as its Japanese debut, attended by then-Emperor Hirohito -- highlights from the 1960 Academy Awards ceremony where it won an unprecedented 11 Oscars (including Wyler accepting his Best Director statuette from John Wayne), theatrical trailers, and rare screen tests (including -- believe it or not -- a young Leslie Nielsen auditioning for the role of Messala, which eventually went to Boyd.) The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. (Warner Bros.)

"Ben Hur"/"King of Kings"
"Ben Hur" (1959). Director William Wyler's classic Hollywood epic follows the Jewish prince of the title (Charlton Heston) after he's betrayed by his boyhood Roman friend (Stephen Boyd) and subjected to much misery until finally achieving retribution for all his suffering. The narrative's conventional melodrama is transformed by the grand scale of its spectacle, especially the chariot race, and by the stirring performances of its principals who manage to overcome the story's cliches and stereotypes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. "King of Kings" (1961). Stolid screen spectacular presents the life of Christ within the historical context of Jewish resistance to Roman rule. Uncomfortably cast in the title role is Jeffrey Hunter, though more effective are Siobhan McKenna as his mother, Robert Ryan as John the Baptist, Hurd Hatfield as Pilate, Rip Torn as Judas and Harry Guardino as Barabbas. Directed by Nicholas Ray, the script is preoccupied with the period's political unrest but treats the Gospel account reverentially, if with more dramatic license than some might find acceptable. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Beowulf & Grendel" (2006)
Grim and tepid, if ruggedly beautiful, retelling of the eighth-century Anglo-Saxon saga of the Norse hero Beowulf (Gerard Butler), who leads a troop of warriors across the sea to help the long-suffering Danish king Hrothgar (Stellan Skarsgard) rid his lands of a murderous troll, Grendel (Ingvar Sigurdsson), who is exacting revenge on Danes for an earlier wrong. Stripping the epic of both its fantasy and Christian elements while remaining faithful to its outline, director Sturla Gunnarsson does a good job at establishing the dark and brutish world of the poem, breaking up the overall broodiness with savage swordplay and severed limbs. But what the film gains in pathos by humanizing the monster, and a contemporary feel by modernizing the dialogue (including frequent use of the f-word), it loses in mythic luster. Assorted bloody violence including dismemberment, some gruesome images, a rape flashback, an implied sexual encounter, a crass scene of urination, and recurring rough and crude language. The widescreen DVD's paltry bonus features include some deleted scenes and interviews with cast and crew members, none particularly interesting. (Some of the interviews and outtakes also contain expletives.) There's also a short featurette of extracts from a longer behind-the-scenes documentary. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Union Station Media).

"Beowulf" (2007)
Generally impressive 3-D animated reworking of the Beowulf legend, dramatizing the warrior's (Ray Winstone) vanquishing of the tortured Grendel (Crispin Glover), his encounter with the demon's mother (Angelina Jolie) and his later troubled kingship. Director Robert Zemeckis has taken some dramatic license with the venerable but sketchy original narrative, but writers Neil Gaiman and Roger Avery's intelligent screenplay has remained faithful to the essentials, including its mix of Christian and pagan elements, while several of the action sequences, including the climactic battle with a flying dragon, are excitingly done. Nearly full male and female nudity, sexual references and innuendo, period bawdiness, adultery, implied nonmarital encounters, intense violence with gore and a suicide. Possibly acceptable for older teens. The vivid anamorphic DVD -- minus the 3-D effects, of course -- contains six not fully animated deleted scenes and an interesting making-of documentary that shows how the performance-capture animation was done, and other background features on the production and legend itself. The writers contend they put back earthy elements that the monks who preserved the legend presumably excised from their manuscripts. Spanish language and title options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Paramount Home Entertainment)

"Bernadette" (1987)
The story of St. Bernadette and her visions of "a beautiful lady in white" at a grotto near Lourdes, France, in 1858 is reverently rendered in this 1989 French production by veteran film director Jean Delannoy ("Mary of Nazareth," "The Eternal Return"). American actress Sidney Penny portrays the eponymous 15-year-old peasant girl with graceful down-to-earth innocence, humility and youthful awkwardness. Her honest performance shows Bernadette as a normal teenager caught up in circumstances beyond her understanding, but who refuses to wilt under local pressure. Having been previously unavailable in the United States, the movie has some fine period details and on-location photography, but the overall film is compromised by extremely poor dubbing into English and falls short of Henry King's superior "Song of Bernadette" (for which Jennifer Jones won the best actress Oscar in 1943 in the title role). The miraculous apparitions are handled discreetly, without resorting to cheesy special effects. Praised by the Vatican as "a sensitive portrayal of a very moving story that deserves a wide audience" and selected to screen daily at the shrine in Lourdes, the film is simple and historically accurate, as well as faithful to the religious drama of the events without the usual slushy piety. The result is a straightforward, but spiritually moving, picture of a young woman's faith, a story that still has relevance for contemporary viewers. Dubbed into English. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested.

"Between the Walls" (2006)
Low-budget Christian-themed drama about an embittered, unemployed steelworker (Patrick Midgley) whose resentment of his dead father (Scott Davis) -- a stern, Bible-quoting tyrant -- is fueled when he uncovers a stash of audio tapes on which his father had secretly recorded everything that happened within the family's unhappy walls. The discovery further disillusions him about religion, until his boyhood best friend (Eli Jared), a born-again Christian, leads him back to faith. Written, directed and produced by twin brothers Chris and Nick Staron, the well-intentioned film is competently crafted despite uneven performances. The melodramatic, allegorical script is preachy and its take on personal salvation as a one-time decision is simplistic, but, overall, it imparts redemptive messages about forgiveness, letting go of anger and relying on God. The DVD also includes deleted scenes, a behind-the-scenes video journal, an amusing animated "Pint Size Parable" and three instructional segments on producing and shooting a movie. Some mature thematic elements. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Glowing Nose, www.glowingnose.com)

"Beverly Hills Chihuahua" (2008)
A pampered pooch (voice of Drew Barrymore) is kidnapped by a Mexican dog-fighting ring while on a junket in the custody of her doting owner's (Jamie Lee Curtis) self-absorbed niece (Piper Perabo), escapes with the help of a protective ex-police dog (voice of Andy Garcia) and discovers life on the streets while the ardent Chihuahua (voice of George Lopez) she once spurned leads the search for her. Along with entertaining adventures, director Raja Gosnell's sprightly live-action canine quest offers lessons about ethnic prejudice and class distinctions while also portraying the personality-warping effects of materialism. Mild menace. The DVD includes a new animated short, "The Legend of the Chihuahaus," three deleted scenes, bloopers and audio commentary by Gosnell (but only on the widescreen edition). Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment; also available on Blu-ray)

"The Bette Davis Collection"
Three beautifully packaged and restored classics, which contain interesting 10-minute "featurettes" about the film, and other assorted features, join the already-issued and excellent restorations of "The Letter" and "Now Voyager."

"Dark Victory" (1939)
Classic tear-jerker in which an energetic socialite (Bette Davis) is felled by a brain tumor, then falls in love with the surgeon (George Brent) who saved her life but knows she has only a few months to live. Directed by Edmund Goulding, the emotional manipulation of the plot is shamelessly transparent, but what still holds interest today is Davis' spunky, smiling-through-the-tears performance. Also, look for Ronald Reagan and a miscast Humphrey Bogart. The DVD features a fully restored print, perceptive commentary by film historian James Ursini and CNN film critic Paul Clinton, and the short, "1939: Tough Competition for Dark Victory," detailing how the film was overshadowed by "Gone With the Wind," "Wuthering Heights" and the year's other classics. Romantic complications and tense discussions of death. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"The Letter" (1940)
In a Singapore courtroom, the wife (Bette Davis) of a rubber plantation owner (Herbert Marshall) stands trial for killing a man she claims tried to assault her but his Eurasian widow (Gale Sondergaard) turns up with a letter proving it was an act of murder. Under William Wyler's moody direction, Davis gives a chilling performance in the coldly unsympathetic role as the faithless wife who ruins her life and the happiness of those around her. The DVD features a restored print, two Lux Radio Theater broadcasts with Davis and Marshall, and an alternate ending (with the famous retribution for the wife's crime intact). Restrained treatment of infidelity and its consequences. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Mr. Skeffington" (1944)
Bette Davis received her eighth Oscar nomination for her spectacular performance as Fanny Skeffington, a beautiful New York socialite surrounded by suitors before and after marriage, but who loses her looks because of diphtheria. Claude Rains plays her devoted husband whom she ultimately comes to appreciate, and Franz Waxman composed the lush score. The DVD features invaluable commentary by director Vincent Sherman, and the interesting short, "Mr. Skeffington: A Picture of Strength." The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Now, Voyager" (1942)
Classy tear-jerker follows a repressed Bostonian spinster (Bette Davis) from a sanatorium where she gains some self-confidence to an ocean cruise where she falls for an unhappily married man (Paul Henreid) but sublimates her love for him by giving a home to his love-starved preteen daughter. Directed by Irving Rapper, Davis's transformation from milksop to socialite is winning, Gladys Cooper makes a fine ogre as her domineering mother and Henreid's routine in lighting two cigarettes is classic Hollywood schmaltz. The DVD includes several audio-only Max Steiner scoring session music cues. The doomed love affair is handled most discreetly. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"The Star" (1952)
After three years without a job, a former movie star (Bette Davis) gets a chance at a supporting role but her ego gets in the way. In the film directed by Stuart Heisler, Davis runs the gamut of emotions, lacerating her agent (Warner Anderson), charming a veteran producer (Minor Watson), smothering her child (Natalie Wood) and scorning the man (Sterling Hayden) who loves her, but the melodramatic results are hardly worth the effort. The DVD includes a new featurette, "How Real Is the Star?" which insist the star's character was not based on Davis, but actually on Joan Crawford. Actress Carol Kane is among those interviewed. Romantic complications, sexual innuendo and delusional behavior. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"The Beverly Hillbillies: Ultimate Collection -- Vol. 1" (1962-1963)
The 1960s television classic from sitcom genius Paul Henning was an instant hit and ran for nine years, often in first place. The series comes to DVD with its first season of 26 episodes in glistening black and white. The amusing premise had Ozark mountaineer Jed Clampett (Buddy Ebsen) striking oil and, along with Granny (Irene Ryan), animal-loving daughter Elly May (Donna Douglas) and Cousin Jethro (Max Baer), then moving to Beverly Hills, where they were sitting ducks for every kind of con artist. The humor holds up surprisingly well, thanks to the engaging, perfectly cast leads who played with conviction. The superbly produced 50-minute documentary "Paul Henning & the Hillbillies" puts the show in historical context, shows how the series was created, and even includes rare footage of a baby-faced Henning in his singing days, crooning "Star Dust." Hennings' daughter, Linda Kaye Henning, is a gracious host, and rightly extols her dad's "clean but funny" humor. Ultimately, CBS canceled the series along with all of its other "rural" shows, deciding to cater to a more urban audience. Other features include an interesting interview with Baer; Ebsen doffing his overalls for top hat and tails on "The Hollywood Palace" TV show; and Ryan improbably belting "I'm a Woman" on another episode. Good, wholesome comedy for the whole family. (MPI)

"Bewitched: The Complete Third Season" (1966-67)
The latest installment in season-by-season release of that popular 1960s television staple features 33 episodes -- all in color, unlike the earlier seasons -- with Elizabeth Montgomery as Samantha (with her magically twitchy nose), Dick York as beleaguered husband Darrin and the great Agnes Moorehead as Samantha's mother. It was in this season that baby Tabitha's magical powers were discovered. Though there are no extras or commentary, the print quality is excellent and the slimline casing for the four discs continues the admirable space-saving trend of these television boxed sets. And it's good to be reminded of the charms of the original after the recent disappointing big screen version of the property. (Sony)

"Beyond the Gates of Splendor" (2005)
Absorbing and inspirational feature-length documentary chronicling the efforts of five married Protestant missionary couples to establish contact with the Waodani Indians, a primitive tribe dwelling in Ecuador's Amazon rain forest feared throughout the region for their savagery. Based on the best-seller by Elisabeth Elliot and narrated by an adult son of one of the couples, the film details the group's story from their college years to their arrival in Ecuador in 1952, their work among the more friendly Quicha tribe, their initial encounters with the fierce Waodani, the brutal slaying of the five male missionaries in 1956, and the courageous decision of the martyred men's widows to remain among the Waodani, who eventually turned away from their ancestral legacy of violence. Though marked by tragedy, the story is ultimately one of redemption, as several of the missionaries' children continue their parents' work, educating and empowering the impoverished Waodani, some of whom were responsible for their fathers' deaths. Beautifully crafted, with moving interviews with surviving family members, the film is a stirring testament to the power of faith and forgiveness, and witnesses the shared humanity of all people. The video contains some violent descriptions of death and brief disturbing images, as well as native nudity. (Fox Home Entertainment)

"Big Daddy" (1999)
Insipid comedy in which an irresponsible 32-year-old (Adam Sandler) temporarily takes custody of a motherless 5-year-old boy (twins Cole and Dylan Sprouse) to impress a girlfriend, but in the process learns parenting is more than just hanging out and goofing off. Director Dennis Dugan's dopey movie rarely moves beyond toilet humor, blatant product placements and sappy sentiment as Sandler's character predictably matures after initially being a terrible role model. Implied affairs, coarse expressions and gestures, some profanity and fleeting violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Bird" (1988)
Biography of troubled jazz saxophonist Charlie "Bird" Parker (Forest Whitaker) follows his last years on the road and with his common-law wife (Diane Venora). He died in 1955 at age 34 after ravaging his body with years of heroin and alcohol addiction. Directed by Clint Eastwood, there's not a false note in this expressionistic, moody look at the jazz subculture of the 1950s. Realistic view of the consequences of Parker's addiction, a graphic suicide attempt, sexual promiscuity and an offhanded acceptance of out-of-wedlock pregnancy. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Warner Home Video)

"Birth" (2004)
Unconventional love story about a New York widow (Nicole Kidman) who comes to believe that her dead husband has been reincarnated as a 10-year-old boy (Cameron Bright), much to the dismay of her new fiance (Danny Huston). Director Jonathan Glazer has crafted an elegiac meditation on love, loss and mortality, buttressed by exceptional performances from the assembled ensemble, hauntingly evocative visuals and a disquietingly plaintive score, but the film contains several controversial scenes between Kidman and Bright -- including one in a bathtub -- that many viewers may find extremely troubling. Suggestive situations involving an adult and a minor, and an explicit sexual encounter between adults with nudity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (New Line)

"The Bituminous Coal Queens of Pennsylvania" (2005)
A beauty pageant in a rural Pennyslvania mining community serves as a microcosm of small-town America in directors David Hunt and Jody Eldred's warmhearted documentary. To mark the pageant's 50th anniversary, organizers invited the previous winners, including 1972's Sarah Rush, an actress now living in Hollywood who serves as the film's tour guide. Interviews with the high school-age contestants and local personalities provide a charming, often humorous, window into a vanishing slice of Americana. The film contrasts the anxious preparations of the hopefuls with conversations with the rough-hewn miners who give the town its fierce sense of identity. The wholesome film can be enjoyed by all and celebrates the kind of traditional values that even city slickers can appreciate. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (available only through Netflix, www.netflix.com).

"Black Beauty" (1971)
British version of the classic tale of a boy (Mark Lester) and his horse comes to the screen under the direction of James Hill. It is lovely to look at but is unfortunately flawed by stilted scripting and wooden performances which, one hopes, will not spoil it for younger audiences. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted. (Koch)

"The Black Hole" (1979)
Disney science fiction movie with some fine special effects and a mediocre plot about a maverick scientist (Maximilian Schell) and his mysterious space laboratory. Unfortunately, director Gary Nelson has made the experience no more intriguing than a ride at Disneyland. Incidental violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG - parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Buena Vista Home Entertainment)

"Black Snake Moan" (2007)
Extremely lurid, but ultimately redemptive, melodrama set in rural Tennessee about an aging blues singer (Samuel L. Jackson) who nurses a badly beaten nymphomaniac (Christina Ricci) back to health, and gets her to overcome her drug and sexual addictions, conquering his own inner demons in the process. Writer-director Craig Brewer pulls out the stops with an intentionally florid style, while the impressive performances of the leads -- as well as those of John Cothran as a benevolent preacher, S. Epatha Merkerson as an empathetic friend and Justin Timberlake as an emotionally damaged soldier who loves the young woman -- overcome the more outrageous plot elements. The high quotient of sex, violence and foul language -- which walks the finest of lines between morally objectionable and dramatically valid -- will seriously limit the film's appeal to audiences, Catholic and otherwise. Pervasive rough and crude language and profanity, racial epithets, strong sexuality including a couple of graphic encounters without nudity, premarital situations, upper female nudity elsewhere, violence and drug use. The widescreen DVD features intelligent commentary by Brewster who describes the themes of the film as "sin and salvation." Among several interesting deleted scenes is a moving one with Jackson reading the "mustard seed" passage from Matthew to Ricci, and three informative featurettes which confirm the movie's serious intent. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Paramount Home Entertainment).

"Blade: Trinity" (2004)
Violent and vacuous fantasy action sequel, based on the titular Marvel Comics' character, a brooding half-mortal, half-vampire slayer (Wesley Snipes), who in this third go-round must join forces with a team of vampire hunters (Jessica Biel and Ryan Reynolds) and battle an army of bloodsuckers (led by Parker Posey) bent on resurrecting the granddaddy of all undead, Dracula (Dominic Purcell) -- here re-imagined as an ancient Sumerian demon -- to spawn a vampiric master race. Directed by David S. Goyer, this bloodfest dishes out the same tedious gore and cheesy dialogue as the first two installments, and hopefully this one will drive a stake through any future films in this forgettable franchise. Excessive violence, much profanity and rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (New Line)

"Blades of Glory" (2007)
Fitfully amusing buddy comedy about rival skating champions -- a macho ladies' man (Will Ferrell) and a former child prodigy (Jon Heder) -- banned from the world championships after fighting on the ice, who reluctantly become a team when they learn it's the only way they'll be allowed back to compete, while a jealous brother-sister act (Will Arnett and Amy Poehler) attempt to sabotage the duo. Will Speck and Josh Gordon direct the sophomoric proceedings capably, the skating stunts are well handled, the leads are well paired, and there are apt satirical barbs at the skating industry. The pervasive low humor and vulgarity preclude the younger viewers who would most appreciate the humor, even as predictable affirmations of friendship and good sportsmanship eventually prevail. Crude language, crass expressions, mild profanity, a couple of brief nongraphic sexual encounters, innuendo, comic violence and mayhem, including a decapitation, brief comic suggestion of incest and drug use. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Paramount Home Video)

"The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi" (2004)
Stylish but gory revenge tale set in 19th-century Japan about a wandering, blind blade-master (Beat Takeshi) who uses his lethal sword skills to rid a small farming village of a gang of ruthless bandits. Incorporating cross-genre elements as diverse as vaudevillian slapstick and hip-hop dance, Takeshi -- who also wrote and directed the film under the name Takeshi Kitano -- gives the classic samurai tale a jazzy makeover, which, though chock full of blood-splattered swordfights, is not without moments of beauty, emotion and humor. Stylized action violence with associated gore, brief suggestion of child prostitution, a suicide, cross-dressing references and some crude language and humor. Subtitles. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Buena Vista)

"Blue Crush" (2002)
Average story about a young woman (Kate Bosworth) training to win the prestigious Pipe Masters surf competition who falls for a professional quarterback (Matthew Davis) staying at the hotel where she and her friends (Michelle Rodriguez, Sanoe Lake) are chambermaids, forcing her to re-evaluate her lifelong goals. As directed by John Stockwell, the skimpy story about overcoming fears and self-doubt while staying true to one's dreams despite the distractions of love is an afterthought to the awe-inspiring shots of surfing expertise and huge Hawaiian waves curling and smashing down on the shore. An implied sexual encounter and some sexual suggestiveness, brief underage drinking, a scene of fisticuffs and sporadic crass language and expressions. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"Blood Diamond" (Two-Disc Special Edition) (2006) Compelling action-adventure set in Africa's Sierra Leone as a mercenary (a superb Leonardo DiCaprio), a crusading U.S. reporter (Jennifer Connelly) and a frantic African fisherman (Djimon Hounsou) who's been separated from his family join forces against a backdrop of bloody civil war and plundering of the country's natural resources. Director Edward Zwick masterfully balances the action sequences with the more intimate ones. The film, though overly long, delivers on entertainment value, while imparting a worthy message about the immoral origin of conflict diamonds and the exploitation of child soldiers, and delivers a strong affirmation of family, while the DiCaprio-Connelly romance is refreshingly devoid of overt sexual elements. Much violence and bloodshed though admirably restrained in its presentation, murder, rough language and profanity, crude expressions, threat of rape, underage drinking and smoking. The film is presented in sharp anamorphic widescreen with commentary by Zwick on the first disc, while the second platter is loaded with feature material: a 50-minute documentary on conflict diamonds, a profile of DiCaprio's training for the role, a look at women journalists at war, and how Zwick filmed the siege of Freetown. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Warner Home Video).

"Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius" (2004)
Handsomely crafted biopic set in the 1920s about the life of legendary golfer Bobby Jones (Jim Caviezel), who, though getting off to a sickly start, defied the odds, overcoming physical hardships and personal demons to rise to the pinnacle of the sports world. Though the unfocused narrative spends too much time in tedious tournament sequences, the well acted film, directed by Rowdy Herrington, is an inspirational celebration of the ability of the human spirit to triumph over adversity and succeed without abandoning personal principles. Sporadic crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Bogie & Bacall: The Signature Collection" (1944-48)
The four classic films made by Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, who would marry after their first film, "To Have and Have Not," have been gathered in this new box set. The print quality is excellent on all. All except "The Big Sleep" are classified A-II -- adults and adolescents. None were rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (Warner Home Video).

"The Big Sleep" (1946)
Classic hard-boiled crime caper with Raymond Chandler's private eye, Philip Marlowe (Bogart), taking a routine blackmail case that turns into a convoluted murder mystery involving a millionaire's bewildering daughters (Bacall and Martha Vickers). Director Howard Hawks keeps the plot complications simmering with plenty of rugged action, colorful tough guys, much sardonic humor, snappy dialogue and the promise of romance. Stylized violence and sexual innuendo. The DVD contains both the unreleased 1945 version, and the 1946 theatrical version with many scenes reshot to show Bacall to better advantage than in the first version. Archivist Robert Gitt of the University of California-Los Angeles explains the differences, large and small.

"Dark Passage" (1947)
Offbeat crime melodrama about a man (Bogart) who escapes prison, is sheltered by a woman (Bacall) who believes him innocent and has a plastic surgeon change his face so he won't be recognized as he tries to find the culprit who framed him. Directed by Delmer Daves, the film has some interesting plot twists, with fine use of San Francisco locations and a good gallery of intriguing characters. The DVD features a making-of featurette and a Bugs Bunny cartoon with a Bogart-Bacall connection.

"Key Largo" (1948)
High tension melodrama from Maxwell Anderson's play in which a hardened war veteran (Bogart) arrives at a Florida Keys hotel to find its owner (Lionel Barrymore) and his daughter (Bacall) being held prisoner by gangsters (headed by Edward G. Robinson), then is forced to take them to Cuba by boat after a hurricane leaves them stranded. Directed by John Huston, the desperate proceedings are given conviction by a fine cast, including Claire Trevor's aging gun moll, with the outcome hinged on the veteran's regained idealism in the riveting climax. Stylized violence, menacing situations and muted sexual innuendo. No extra content on the DVD.

"To Have and Have Not" (1944)
Lively adventure from Ernest Hemingway's novel set in the Caribbean where the American captain (Bogart) of a charter fishing boat throws in with the Free French resistance after being pushed around by Vichy agents in 1940 Martinique, while managing to find romance along the way with a slim adventuress (Bacall). Directed by Hawks from a script by Jules Furthman and William Faulkner, the melodramatic action is secondary to the romantic subplot and interesting cast of stereotypes, notably Walter Brennan's drink-addled seaman and his recurring question: "Was you ever bit by a dead bee?" Stylized violence and sexual innuendo. The DVD contains a making-of featurette, a cartoon in which "To Have and Have Not" figures, and a radio version with Bogart and Bacall.

"Body of Lies" (2008)
Taut and engrossing Middle East thriller about a conscientious U.S. intelligence agent (Leonardo DiCaprio) who -- in an environment of deception and betrayals -- seeks out an Osama-like terrorist leader while taking orders from his longtime colleague, a hard-nosed CIA chief (Russell Crowe) back in Virginia. Director Ridley Scott maintains a good pace, and there are intelligent performances by all, including Mark Strong as the agent's Jordanian liaison, while the culturally enlightened script encourages humanistic understanding of the politically and socially volatile region. Relatively brief but graphic images of violence, torture, and medical procedures, pervasive rough language and profanity, and some blunt sexual expressions. Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Warner Home Video; also available on Blu-ray and a 2-Disc Digital Copy Special Edition, each with bonus features)

"Boogeyman" (2005)
Hokey horror flick about a young man (Barry Watson) who has been haunted all his life by memories of a traumatic incident he "witnessed" in his bedroom as a boy -- he is convinced the eponymous evil specter snatched his father -- and who is advised by his psychologist that in order to salvage his sanity he must prove that the fearful episode was nothing more than a figment of his troubled imagination by spending a night alone in his creepy childhood home. Though not without some mild suspense and popcorn-tossing jolts, the movie, directed by Stephen Kay, is a muddled mess of failed frights, horror-movie cliches and backend-heavy special effects pieced together by a mostly incoherent script. Several sequences of menace, which involve horror-style violence as well as some sexually suggestive scenes, one of which contains partial nudity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Born on the Fourth of July" (1989)
Emotionally wrenching story of an idealistic youth (Tom Cruise) who returns from Vietnam a crippled war hero, grows increasingly disillusioned and alienated from family and friends, turns to alcohol and sex but then rediscovers a purpose in life as part of the anti-war movement. Adapted from Ron Kovic's book by Kovic and director Oliver Stone, the movie captures the period in which the nation became polarized by the war and provides some insight into the problems of Vietnam veterans, but Stone's overly graphic depiction of violence and a sequence in a bordello are not for the faint-hearted. Disturbing depiction of violence, a scene with nudity in a sexual context and much rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

"The Bourne Supremacy" (2004)
Frenetic follow-up to "The Bourne Identity," about amnesiac CIA assassin Jason Bourne (Matt Damon), pursued around Europe by CIA operatives and a Russian hit man, while struggling with disturbing memories of a violent incident in which he may have played a part. Fine performances by Damon and a supporting cast including Joan Allen and Brian Cox, though extremely fast editing and episodic storytelling take this a couple of notches below the excellence of the first film. Scenes of intense action violence and a brief instance of crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"The Bourne Ultimatum" (2007)
This lightning-paced, globe-trotting follow-up to "The Bourne Identity" and "The Bourne Supremacy" wraps up Bourne's (Matt Damon) quest to discover his true name and history even as CIA project head (David Strathairn) orders his immediate termination, but is continually stymied by Bourne's lethal skills at evasion and unexpected help from female CIA operatives (Joan Allen and Julia Stiles). Director Paul Greengrass orchestrates sustained and eye-popping action-excitement throughout, while top-notch cast members (including a climactic appearance by Albert Finney) manage to flesh out their characters, resulting in a satisfying if somewhat exhausting thriller. Much intense and fierce violence and intermittent profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal Studios Home Video)

"Bordertown" (2006)
Worthy if necessarily bleak investigative drama in which, at the behest of her editor (Martin Sheen), a Chicago reporter (Jennifer Lopez) travels to Juarez, Mexico, to uncover the truth about a series of rapes and murders committed against female factory workers and, uniting with a former colleague and old flame (Antonio Banderas) as well as a wealthy local humanitarian (Sonia Braga), tries to protect the young survivor (Maya Zapata) of one such attack. Writer-director Gregory Nava's film, inspired by true events, is absorbing, despite some melodramatic elements and an over-simplified indictment of globalization. Brutal rape and attempted rape, nonmarital sexual activity, rear and upper female nudity, graphic images of blood and corpses, some rough, crude and profane language, and occasional crass language. The full-frame DVD features a making-of sequence including interviews with Nava, Lopez and Zapata, as well as two 15-minute documentaries about the factual background, one of which has an especially touching testimonial from a female factory worker struggling to educate her children so they can avoid exploitation. Spanish subtitles. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (THINKFilm)

"Boynton Beach Club" (2006)
Touching story about widowed and divorced seniors in Florida adult community who meet in a bereavement group and come to learn that life is far from over, as they forge friendships and romantic relationships. Director and co-writer Susan Seidelman has gathered a first-rate cast including Joe Bologna, Dyan Cannon, Len Cariou, Sally Kellerman, Michael Nouri, Renee Taylor and Brenda Vaccaro and has, for the most part, avoided hackneyed treatment, and with good messages about recovery from grief, finding unexpected love and rebuilding self-esteem. Casual view of premarital sex including condom use and pornography, acceptability of divorce, mild innuendo, nongraphic sexual encounters, partial female nudity, a few instances of rough and crude words, a nonsexual encounter with a prostitute and drug use. The anamorphic DVD features personable commentary by Seidelman. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment).

"Boys Don't Cry" (1999)
Disturbing fact-based story of a confused young woman (Hilary Swank) posing as a guy in rural Nebraska where she fools some tough yokels with her male impersonation, and even romances one of their gals (Chloe Sevigny) before the ruse is discovered, with deadly consequences. Directed by Kimberly Pierce, the story of a woman's attempt to switch genders is convincingly portrayed as a dangerous obsession ultimately exploding in vengeful violence by unstable macho males in the tragic conclusion. Stylized violence including a graphic rape scene, sexual situations and references, brief nudity, drug abuse, occasional profanity and rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"The Boys of St. Vincent" (1994)
Fictional dramatization of fact-based events in Canada centers in a Catholic orphanage run by religious brothers who sexually molest the youngsters in their care but, because of a cover-up, are not brought to trial until 15 years later. Shown originally as a four-hour TV program, the 1992 Canadian production directed by John N. Smith is a powerful indictment of those who abuse positions of trust as well as a sensitive, nonexploitational portrayal of the damage done to their victims and the community, with convincing performances by a fine cast headed by Henry Czerny as the tormented chief offender. Strong fare but responsibly treated, relying on suggestion rather than graphic depiction of the sexual abuse of minors, with much pent-up emotional churnings, some outbursts of violence and occasional profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (New Yorker)

"The Bourne Identity" (2002)
 Well-crafted thriller in which a highly trained CIA agent (Matt Damon) suffering from amnesia after a botched secret operation must figure out who he is and why fierce assassins are after him as he is aided by a German woman (Franka Potente) whom he has taken into his confidence. Based on the novel by Robert Ludlum, director Doug Liman's film is both an engaging character study and a fast-paced espionage yarn as the ongoing chase scenes and chilling close calls provide suspense and deflect attention from the story's predictable spots. Recurring harsh violence and some profanity with an instance of rough language.      The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"Bozo, the World's Most Famous Clown: Collection #1"
Thirty episodes spread over four discs comprise the first in a promised series of the beloved TV clown. The squeaky-clean episodes are culled from the series that aired in Boston in the 1960s with Frank Avruch as the titular funnyman, and with a studio audience of well-dressed children that would get low points on a diversity meter today. Fairly low-tech by today's standards, the color episodes nonetheless look remarkably good. Each episode includes a five-minute Bozo cartoon, too. The format is comfortingly straightforward: some slapstick involving riding Zany Zebra, a balloon game and some water antics in a bathtub. But all this should appeal to very young children and even some adults who fondly remember this icon from childhood (Infinity Entertainment./Falcon Picture Group/Larry Harmon Pictures Corp.).

"Breach" (2007)
Interesting, though by its nature downbeat dramatization about the case of FBI agent Robert Hanssen (a compelling Chris Cooper), who was revealed to be a spy for the Russians, called the worst breach in the history of U.S. intelligence, and how he was entrapped by young undercover agent Eric O'Neill (Ryan Phillippe), assigned to work with him. Writer-director Billy Ray's gray-toned film is deliberately paced, but ultimately delivers on suspense. There is secondary interest for Catholic viewers in Hanssen's commitment to Catholicism, though given the unsavory aspects of his personality (not only treasonous, but an alleged sexual deviant as well) the connection is more unfortunate than not. Candid discussion of sexual matters, some crude language and profanity, a brief image of a pornographic video, domestic discord and mild violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Universal Home Video).

"Breaker Morant" (1980)
During the Boer War, three officers of an Australian unit (led by title character Edward Woodward) are court-martialed for shooting prisoners. Despite uniformly fine performances and well-staged action scenes, Australian director Bruce Beresford's fact-based courtroom drama never quite comes to grips with the issues raised about the irregular nature of combat against guerrilla forces as well as the defense of following orders. Mature themes and battlefield violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Image Entertainment)

"Breakfast at Tiffany's" (Centennial Collection; 1961)
Bright romantic comedy from Truman Capote's tale of Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn), a bubble-headed beauty whose kooky behavior wows Manhattan's social set and bowls over an earnest young writer (George Peppard) despite complications involving a well-to-do woman (Patricia Neal). Director Blake Edwards lances the bogus glitter of the big city and paces the action with humor (notably Mickey Rooney's broad performance as an irascible Japanese neighbor) but the movie's main attraction is Hepburn's ability to portray the innate innocence of the free-spirited Holly. Mature themes. The generously filled DVD includes several new features, including some carry-overs from the last release in this format, as well as commentary by producer Richard Shepherd. Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Paramount Home Entertainment)

"Breakin All the Rules" (2004)
Lukewarm romantic comedy about a magazine executive (Jamie Foxx) who writes a best-selling guide to breaking up after getting dumped by his fiancee, only to wind up in an awkward affair with his cousin's (Morris Chestnut) girlfriend (Gabrielle Union). Fueled by moldy mistaken-identity plot twists, the formulaic farce directed by Daniel Taplitz offers a mixed-bag message which, while espousing commitment, places little value on chastity. A recreational view of sex, several implied sexual encounters and recurring crude language and humor. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Breaking the Da Vinci Code" (2005)
Well-presented and intelligent refutation of claims made by author Dan Brown in his novel "The Da Vinci Code." The hourlong program is comprised mostly of interviews with biblical scholars and art historians, many of whom have written books debunking Brown's best seller. While acknowledging Brown's effective storytelling, they take issue with his assertions of historical accuracy. The production contends that many of Brown's "facts" are gross misrepresentations or outright inventions based on fanciful speculation and unsupported by historical evidence. Citing early church fathers, as well as first-century Jewish and pagan sources, the program makes a strong case that Brown's novel, however entertaining as fiction, is bad history. Unfortunately, the program takes a broad stroke approach and doesn't allow for a detailed examination of every inaccuracy. Still, it does provide viewers with a good overview of the more spurious claims put forward by the novel. Among the topics covered: the question of Christ's divinity; Mary Magdalene and her relationship to Jesus and his apostles; the Gnostic gospels; and Opus Dei. The DVD bonus features include extended interviews, a short documentary on Leonardo da Vinci, a tour of the Rosslyn Chapel, featured prominently in the novel, as well as a Spanish-language track. (Grizzly Adams Family Entertainment)

"Breakfast at Tiffany's" (Anniversary Edition) (1961)
Bright romantic comedy from Truman Capote's tale of Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn), a bubble-headed beauty whose kooky behavior wows Manhattan's social set and bowls over an earnest young writer (George Peppard) despite complications involving a well-to-do woman (Patricia Neal). Director Blake Edwards lances the bogus glitter of the big city and paces the action with humor (notably Mickey Rooney's broad performance as an irascible Japanese neighbor) but the movie's main attraction is Hepburn's ability to portray the innate innocence of the free-spirited Holly. The sharp-looking widescreen DVD includes commentary by producer Richard Shepherd; a 15-minute, behind-the-scenes featurette with Shepherd, Edwards and Neal as well as Hepburn's "companion," Robert Wolders, her son Sean Ferrer, the casting director and several extras, including some surprising revelations, such as Edwards regretting the casting of Rooney and Peppard. There are other short features on Hepburn's sense of style; the famed store Tiffany's itself; and the background on an adulatory letter from Hepburn extolling the store's virtues. Mature themes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

"Breaking & Entering" (2007)
So-so drama about a London architect (Jude Law) -- living with a Swedish-American divorcee (Robin Wright Penn) and her autistic 13-year-old daughter -- who has an affair with the widowed Bosnian mother (Juliette Binoche) of a troubled boy who has broken into the architect's inner-city office, prompting a re-evaluation of his life and relationships against the city's evolving cultural landscape. Writer-director Anthony Minghella's film features good performances, but interweaves its themes of immigration, motherhood and economic disparity into a plot that's not terribly compelling, though its moral resolution involves forgiveness and reconciliation. Some rough and crude language and profanity, upper female nudity, a prostitute character, a couple of nongraphic sexual encounters, some sexual banter, infidelity and a condom reference. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Weinstein).

"Breakout" (1975)
Down-on-his-luck pilot (Charles Bronson) contracts to fly a wrongly accused American out of a Mexican prison and finds himself involved with a rogue CIA operation. Directed by Tom Gries, it's an old-fashioned adventure yarn with the emphasis on action rather than violence, except for a grisly depiction of a villain being killed by an airplane propeller. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Columbia/TriStar)

"The Break-Up" (2006)
Tepid but fitfully affable romantic comedy charting the deterioration of the relationship of an art gallery assistant (Jennifer Aniston) and a loutish Chicago tour bus operator (Vince Vaughn) who ultimately learns to be a more considerate person. Director Peyton Reed draws good work from the stars, especially the effortlessly appealing Aniston and a scene-stealing Judy Davis, though the protagonists from the start seem distinctly incompatible. Underneath the not-very-funny funny business, there are some universal truths about relationships, but the setup never quite rings true, and the script should be way sharper. Considerable profanity and crude language and an instance of rough language, some crass sexual banter, partial nudity and a permissive view of a premarital relationship. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Universal).

"Brick" (2006)
Gritty low-budget murder mystery set in Southern California about a high school loner (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) whose obsessive search for his missing ex-girlfriend (Emilie de Ravin) leads to danger and deception, with a list of suspects that includes her junkie boyfriend (Noah Segan), a manipulative socialite (Nora Zehetner), a drug dealer (Lukas Haas) and a volatile thug (Noah Fleiss). Inspired by the crime novels of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett, director Rian Johnson cleverly gives the high school movie a noir twist, combining the teen and classic detective genres, resulting in a hard-boiled hybrid that proves intriguing despite its modest trappings, though its slangy dialogue may take some getting used to. Some violence, including several rough beatings and a shooting, recurring drug content, unflattering portrayal of authority figures, underage drinking and smoking, and sporadic crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Universal Home Video).

"Bridget Jones's Diary" (2001)
Fitfully entertaining comedy about a single, thirtysomething British woman (Renee Zellweger) who obsesses about her weight and her bad habits in her diary as she searches for the perfect man. Witty dialogue and an appealing cast in director Sharon Maguire's film help to overcome one-dimensional characterizations and a predictably structured plot, yet its atmosphere of promiscuity is troublesome. Fleeting and implied sexual encounters, recurring rough language and some profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IV -- adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Buena Vista)

"The Bridge of San Luis Rey" (2005)
Visually sumptuous remake of Thornton Wilder's 1927 Pulitzer Prize-winning book about the efforts of a clergyman (Gabriel Byrne) to piece together the lives of five strangers who perished when a bridge collapsed in 18th-century Peru at the time of the Inquisition, so he can determine whether the accident was pure chance or God's predetermined plan. Writer-director Mary McGuckian has assembled an A-level -- though wildly uneven -- cast (including F. Murray Abraham, Robert DiNiro, Kathy Bates, Geraldine Chaplin and Harvey Keitel), but despite the compelling story, moral themes and fine production values, the results are dramatically static. The letterboxed DVD looks great, and at least provides a visual feast. Some adult thematic material makes this suitable for adults and older adolescents. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (New Line)

"Bridge to Terabithia" (2007)
Coming-of-age fantasy based on Katherine Paterson's children's novel about a young loner (Josh Hutcherson) who befriends a new girl in school (AnnaSophia Robb) who's also an outcast, and together they create a magical world -- Terabithia -- where they can escape their real-life troubles. The young leads are charming and the sweet story gently imparts worthy messages about friendship, family and the power of imagination, but director Gabor Csupo's faithful adaptation is a bit underwhelming, as the anticipated fantastical elements are minimal. Still, despite a plot twist that may upset sensitive young children, the movie is family-friendly. Mature thematic elements, including the death of a child, some minor peril and mildly crude language. The well-packaged DVD includes two audio commentaries, one with Csupo, writer Jeff Stockwell and producer Hal Lieberman; the other with Hutcherson, Robb and producer Lauren Levine, and featurettes on the themes of the book and the film's production. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children (Walt Disney Home Entertainment).

"Brideshead Revisited" (2008)
Well-acted and lushly outfitted, but substantially re-imagined, screen version of Evelyn Waugh's 1945 novel about a middle-class 1920s Oxford University student (Matthew Goode) who becomes entangled with an aristocratic Catholic dynasty through his almost romantic friendship with its younger son (Ben Whishaw), subsequently clashing with its misguided matriarch (Emma Thompson) and pursuing an adulterous affair with her elder daughter (Hayley Atwell). Director Julian Jarrold's sweeping period drama transforms a Catholic convert's meditation on God's grace into a cautionary tale about the negative effects of guilt-inflicting religious fundamentalism. Nongraphic adulterous sexual activity, brief rear nudity, a passing same-sex kiss, and occasional crass language. The handsome DVD contains seven deleted scenes (one with partial nudity), audio commentary by Jarrold, producer Kevin Loader, and writer Jeremy Brock, and a featurette, "The World of Brideshead." Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Miramax Films Home Entertainment)

"Brigadoon" (1954)
Based on classic Lerner and Loewe Broadway musical about vacationing Americans (Gene Kelly and Van Johnson) lost in the Scottish countryside where they stumble upon an 18th-century village that appears only for a day every 100 years. Kelly's love for village lass Cyd Charisse isn't strong enough to keep director Vincente Minnelli's colorful fantasy from falling disappointingly flat, though the songs that remain from Broadway are lovely and Kelly's choreography worth watching. Beautiful transfer, and three interesting -- if less than scintillating -- deleted musical numbers. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. (Warner Bros.)

"Bright Young Things" (2004)
Overly frenetic but generally successful adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's "Vile Bodies," a morality tale about hedonistic Jazz Age sophisticates who party their lives away in wild abandon until they're caught short by reality. Actor-writer Stephen Fry, making his directorial debut, shows an overfondness for rapid camera pans, and lays on the Twenties soundtrack pretty heavily, but he elicits fine performances from a stellar cast, and as the story takes a serious turn the film slows down to a thoughtful pace as well. Recreational drug and alcohol use, implied promiscuity, generalized decadence, amoral behavior and a suicide. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (New Line)

"Bringing Up Baby" (1938)
Classic screwball comedy in which a serious-minded paleontologist (Cary Grant) gets mixed up with a zany socialite heiress (Katharine Hepburn) whose pet leopard, Baby, is mistaken for an escaped killer leopard as confusions multiply until girl gets boy. Howard Hawks directs the hilarious proceedings with flair and style; he is aided by a playful plot, madcap performances by Hepburn and Grant and a great supporting cast. The DVD is given a two-disc packaging, loaded with extras including the documentary "Cary Grant: A Class Apart," and Richard Schickel's "The Men Who Made the Movies" documentary on Hawks. Print quality is a bit faded but, alas, the best available. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"Broadway: The American Musical" (2004)
How do you compress more than a century of musical comedy into six-hours? That's the daunting task producer Michael Kantor has had to face on this panoramic series, and he succeeds far better than anyone could have hoped in telescoping the history of such a bountiful period. Narrated and hosted by the ever-gracious Julie Andrews, the series offers an overview of this uniquely American art form, from the "Ziegfeld Follies" through Rodgers & Hammerstein, Sondheim, the British invasion of Andrew Lloyd Webber, right up to today, and from performers like Fanny Brice and Ethel Merman, through today's Nathan Lane and Kristin Chenoweth. The first three hours cover roughly 40 years, while the second half covers 60. Understandably, there were many unavoidable omissions when the series was broadcast on PBS, but this DVD version promises five hours of bonus footage, which may compensate. Kantor has structured the series to demonstrate how the Broadway musical mirrored societal and cultural changes, and the connections he draws are undeniably persuasive. There are marvelous film and video performances on display. Where clips didn't exist, there are striking montages from still photographs, and indeed much of the archival black-and-white photo material is presented in eye-catching 3-D relief. All the talking heads are insightful and well-chosen: Al Hirschfeld, Tommy Tune, Susan Stroman, Ben Vereen, Jerry Orbach, June Havoc, Tim Robbins, Jerry Herman and many others. The occasional missteps are rare. This is a beautifully constructed series that offers almost as much pleasure as the genre it so winningly celebrates. (The DVD edition includes a wealth of additional material: performances and interviews, and a special featurette: "Wicked: The Road to Broadway.") (Paramount/PBS)

"Broadway: The Golden Age" (2004)
A feast for theater lovers, as filmmaker Rick McKay set out to discover whether there really was a "golden age" on the Great White Way, by interviewing (over a five-year period) more than 100 stars who describe how they first fell in the love with theater, what it was like to come to New York during the 1940s and '50s, how they got their first breaks, the thrill of opening night, and their opinions on the great performers of the era like Marlon Brando and Kim Stanley, etc. Logically and brilliantly complied into themed sections, those interviewed are remarkably consistent in their recollections of the era, as when each in turn thrillingly recalls how Laurette Taylor's performance in "The Glass Menagerie" was the greatest they had ever seen. The gorgeous archival film clips of Broadway's theater district (most in color) are quite fascinating, as is the (truly) rare performance footage of landmark performances, such as "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," "Bus Stop" and "Damn Yankees," which makes fascinating comparisons to their better known film versions. With Carol Burnett, Ben Gazzara, Fay Wray, Gwen Verdon, Angela Lansbury and dozens more. In addition to director's commentary, the DVD contains extensive footage of the New York and Los Angeles premieres of the documentary, more interviews and a generous chunk of footage from the proposed sequel, "Broadway: The Next Generation." (RCA Victor)

"Broadway's Lost Treasures Collection" (2003-2005)
Highly recommendable boxed set comprising three PBS specials, "Broadway's Lost Treasures I, II, and III," all culled from past Tony Awards shows, the annual event which honors the theater's best. How can you go wrong with Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury, Carol Channing and the like? Many of the clips show the performers in their prime during the actual year their respective shows were on Broadway (and you'll be amazed at how long those segments were allowed to run in the old TV days!); clips include Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin in "Evita," Joel Grey in "Cabaret" and Jerry Orbach in "42nd Street." Other clips capture the stars in later years, re-creating their great moments, such as Robert Preston in "The Music Man," Julie Andrews in "My Fair Lady" and Alfred Drake in "Kiss Me, Kate." The three discs each come with generous bonus material, in some cases numbers less "popular" than the main items, but no less entertaining, among them a lengthy excerpt of Katharine Hepburn's improbable musical outing in "Coco," Robert Goulet and David Wayne in a terrific number from "The Happy Time," and an aging Desi Arnaz recalling his breakthrough role in Rodgers & Hart's "Too Many Girls." There's a bonus CD devoted to nonmusicals, featuring such gems as James Earl Jones in "The Great White Hope," Maggie Smith in "Lettice and Lovage," and Art Carney in "Lovers," along with choice bits of Annette Bening, John Lithgow, Kevin Kline and Gary Sinise showing what they can do in front of a live audience. (Acorn Media)

"Broken Flowers" (2005)
World-weary womanizer (Bill Murray), deserted by his latest amour (Julie Delpy), receives an anonymous letter from a long-ago flame informing him he has a 19-year-old son, leading his neighbor (Jeffrey Wright) to suggest he look up ex-girlfriends (Sharon Stone, Frances Conroy, Tilda Swinton, Jessica Lange) and determine which one might have sent the letter. Writer-director Jim Jarmusch's quirky film is a telling commentary on relationships and human interconnection, the performances are fine, and Murray is effortlessly luminous. Scattered uses of rough language, brief full-frontal female nudity, implied premarital sex, underage drinking and brief drug use. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Universal)

"Broken Trail" (2006)
A grizzled cowboy (Robert Duvall) and his estranged nephew (Thomas Haden Church), on a horse drive from Oregon to Wyoming, find purpose after rescuing five young Chinese women sold into prostitution. Greta Scacchi plays an older frontier prostitute who becomes a surrogate mother to the women and Chris Mulkey is a ruthless hired gun paid to bring them back. Director Walter Hill evokes the classic Westerns of John Ford with his sweeping cinematography and a production quality that can stand tall with feature films. The performances are first-rate -- especially Duvall, who delivers perhaps his finest work since "Lonesome Dove" -- and the textured script by Alan Geoffrion (based on his novel) has a strong redemptive undercurrent. The three-hour movie originally was an AMC miniseries. The two-disc anamorphic DVD also includes a "making-of" featurette. The film contains some bloody period violence, including shootings, beatings, a nongraphic hanging, and a scene where a horse is put down, a brutal rape, prostitution, a suicide, vigilante justice, fleeting partial nudity, some sexual banter and innuendo, and scattered crude language (Sony Home Entertainment).

"Brother Bear 2" (2006)
Sequel to the 2003 animated fable, based on native American folklore, which finds boy-turned-bear Kenai (voiced by Patrick Dempsey) traveling with his childhood love (Mandy Moore) to a sacred spot to destroy an amulet that will free her to marry a member of his former tribe. Old feelings are rekindled, forcing him to choose between remaining a bear and becoming human again, thus sacrificing his big-brother relationship with mischievous cub Koda (Jeremy Suarez). Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas once again provide laughs as daffy moose duo Rutt and Tuke. Directed by Ben Gluck, the visually lovely follow-up is funny and tender, with stirring songs by Melissa Etheridge. While some parents may have problems with the story's shamanistic elements, others will enjoy it as a fairy tale that warmly affirms family bonds, the wonder of creation and the permanence of love. The film contains some mild innuendo and minor peril. Bonus features include a behind-the-scenes look at scoring the movie. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted (Buena Vista Home Entertainment).

"The Brothers Grimm" (2005)
Visually inventive, highly atmospheric adult fantasy that presents the fairy-tale authors -- Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm (Matt Damon and Heath Ledger, with credible English accents) -- as con-artist characters in a story as fantastical as anything they might have written, incorporating familiar elements of many of their stories, as an autocratic French occupier (Jonathan Pryce) orders them to get to the bottom of strange happenings in a German forest involving missing children. Director Terry Gilliam gets high marks for creating an evocative, 19th-century world, and whipping up a good deal of excitement as the story races to its conclusion, but the film is marred by a slow start and an uneven screenplay by Ehren Krueger. Intense action violence, frightening images, many involving insects, torture scenes, scattered profanity and crude language, brief sexual situations and brief irreligiosity. The DVD version features informative commentary by the soft-spoken Gilliam; several deleted scenes for which he professes great fondness; and featurettes on the making of the film and the production design. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Buena Vista)

"Bruce Almighty" (2003)
Be-careful-what-you-wish-for comedy about a frustrated TV news correspondent (Jim Carrey) whose life is changed when God (Morgan Freeman) entrusts him with divine power after the reporter angrily accuses the Almighty of being asleep at the wheel. Despite its lighthearted irreverence, director Tom Shadyac uses humor to explore such issues as free will, and offers a positive image of personal faith rare in Hollywood flicks. An instance of rough language, minimal profanities, some crass humor and an implied sexual encounter. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal Studios Home Video; also available on Blu-ray)

"The Bucket List" (Warner Bros.)
Rated "PG-13"
Unremarkable, formulaic, only mildly entertaining story of two cancer patients -- a wealthy, womanizing tycoon (Jack Nicholson) and a middle-class garage mechanic (Morgan Freeman) -- who decide to hit the road and experience all their wildest dreams in the time they have left, that is, until they "kick the bucket." We've seen all this before, and except for seeing the two stars in standard reliable form, director Rob Reiner's film is predictably routine, though some problematic elements aside, imparting a positive message about finding the joy in life and bringing joy to others. An instance of the f-word; some crude expletives, crass expressions and scattered profanity; a vulgar gesture; an implied nonmarital sexual encounter; sexual references and innuendo; and domestic discord. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

"Bug Rangers: Hairy Situation" (2006)
Formerly called "Roach Approach," the computer-animated series uses the zany cartoon adventures of a clan of cockroaches to teach Bible lessons. In "Hairy Situation" -- the fourth installment -- scrawny egghead Cosmo doesn't think he has what it takes to earn his Bug Rangers "Bulging Muscles Merit Badge," only to discover that underneath his thick glasses he's a physical dynamo. His newly realized prowess -- which he mistakenly attributes to a merit badge he happens upon -- makes him popular with a local jock, but leaves old pals Squiggz and Flutter in the cold, providing an opportunity for Grandpa Lou to recount the Old Testament story of long-locked strongman Samson. Created by Bruce Barry, the Christian-flavored series, with its vibrant animation, conveys positive faith-based messages -- including the moral that God is the source of all our talents and that we must use our gifts -- in a way that's fun for kids. Bonus features include a look at the episode's storyboard process and a drawing lesson with cartoonist Barry (Fox Home Entertainment).

"Bugtime Adventures: A Giant Problem" (2005)
Whimsical second video in what will be a 13-episode animated series (from the Christian based Lightning Bug Flix) which teaches Bible lessons through cartoon fun. Each episode follows the adventures of a group of likable bugs who learn important lessons at the feet (literally) of some of the Good Book's most beloved figures. The parallel plots of the insect and human characters sometimes intersect, allowing the zany insects to apply insights gained to solve their own dilemmas. In "A Giant Problem: The David Story," the creatures' village is threatened with total destruction when a water dam springs a leak. Above their tiny tragedy the army of the Israelites is in equally dire straits as it face off against the Philistines. Inspired by the heroics of the young shepherd boy David in overcoming seemingly impossible odds and slaying the Philistine's champion Goliath, an adorable ant named Meghan finds the courage and faith to save the day. TV-savvy kids probably won't be wowed by the rudimentary animation, but the series conveys positive moral messages while providing a fun and accessible way for young viewers to learn about the Bible. Narrated by Willie Aames. Bonus features include puzzles and games involving the bug characters. (CNI Distribution/Willowcreek Marketing, (905) 984-3168, ext. 224)

"Bullets Over Broadway" (1994)
Prohibition-era comedy in which a high-minded playwright (John Cusack) accepts backing for his latest work from a gangster (Joe Viterelli) who wants his showgirl mistress (Jennifer Tilly) in the cast, then during rehearsals falls for the play's fading star (Dianne Wiest) and rewrites his script in collaboration with the mistress' hard-boiled bodyguard (Chazz Palminteri). Directed by Woody Allen, the lightweight period proceedings are intermittently amusing and the exaggerated performances are fun for awhile but the theme's skewering of pretentiousness is heavy-handed and the philosophical asides lack wit and originality. Occasional stylized violence, some sexual situations and references as well as a few instances of profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Buena Vista)

"Bullitt" (1968)
When an underworld informer is killed while in the protective custody of a San Francisco police detective (Steve McQueen), the detective sets up a ruse to smoke out those responsible. Under the direction of Peter Yates, the action thriller displays a convincing degree of realism thanks to close attention to details of police work, harrowing car chases through city streets and McQueen's tight-lipped performance. Some graphic violence and sexual references. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Warner Home Video)

"Bunny Lake Is Missing" (1965)
Suspenseful thriller about a child who appears to have been abducted but who, in fact, may never have existed. Otto Preminger directs Keir Dullea and Carol Lynley as a properly mysterious couple with Laurence Olivier as a quietly effective London policeman. Mature themes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (The Ultimate Collector's Edition) (1969)
Stylish seriocomic Western set at the end of the 19th century when a pair of outlaws, Butch (Paul Newman) and the Kid (Robert Redford), realizes that civilization has overtaken their profession and head for the Bolivian frontier. Director George Roy Hill brings off the action scenes with gusto and humor though there are enough realistic scenes to show that their criminal exploits have serious consequences. Much stylized violence and a sexually suggestive situation. The handsome DVD package contains bountiful features: two commentary tracks, one by screenwriter William Goldman, another by Hill, lyricist Hal David, documentary director Robert Crawford Jr., and cinematographer Conrad Hall; a 1994 "making of" documentary and others detailing the production and the true story; and interviews with the cast and production team. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children (Fox Home Entertainment).

"The Butterfly" (2003)
Entrancing French tale of a neglected 8-year-old Parisian (Claire Bouanich) who hides in the car of her crusty elderly neighbor (Michel Serrault) headed to the Alps in search of a rare butterfly, a trip which brings the lonely twosome unexpected emotional dividends. Writer-director Philippe Muyl delicately explores the discovery of nature through a child's eyes as the old man reluctantly, then with genuine caring, embraces the role of grandfather figure. Subtitles. Brief sexual references and occasional profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (First Run Features)
C
"Cache" ("Hidden") (2005)
Superior allegorical French thriller -- with political underpinnings -- about a talk-show host (Daniel Auteuil) and his wife (Juliette Binoche) who receive ominous videotapes indicating that they are under surveillance. Director-writer Michael Haneke eschews melodramatics for understated suspense and psychological tension. Scattered rough and crude language; an instance of profanity; two violent, if dramatically valid, episodes including the beheading of a rooster, with images of blood; a suicide, with blood; brief shadowy nudity. The exceptionally sharp anamorphic DVD includes an illuminating 25-minute interview with Haneke, who underscores the film's theme as being about "guilt" though he demurs at explaining the film's ambiguous ending, and a half-hour "making of" documentary. Good, easy-to-read subtitling. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Sony Home Entertainment).

"Cadence" (1990)
An Army private (Charlie Sheen) confined in the post stockade infuriates his racist jailer (Martin Sheen) by bonding with the black prisoners and rejecting favored treatment. Director Martin Sheen turns out a subtle, understated film about bigotry, mixing humor with drama and fleshing out the characters without resorting to empty stereotypes. Brief violence, some racial epithets and a fleeting sexual reference. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Republic Entertainment).

"The Camden 28" (2007)
Anthony Giacchino's sensitive and intriguing documentary follows the story that began in August 1971, at the height of the Vietnam War controversy, when 20 people were arrested in the Federal Office Building in Camden, N.J., as they attempted to destroy or carry off written records belonging to the local draft board. Within days, another eight people were arrested and charged with helping to organize the break-in. Their trial in early 1973 would mark a turning point in the struggle between the government -- in particular the FBI -- and the anti-war movement. All but one of those arrested were practicing Catholics who believed that their faith compelled them to oppose the war. Some footage of wounded soldiers and injured civilians, including a scene in which a naked soldier receives medical treatment, may preclude young viewers. Added features on the DVD include interviews with lawyers from both sides, a brief interview with anti-war movement historian Michael S. Foley, who places the Camden 28's role in the larger context of the Vietnam protests, and more footage of the group's 2002 reunion. (First Run Features)

"Can't Hardly Wait" (10th Anniversary Edition) (1998)
Failed coming-of-age comedy in which various couples at an unsupervised high school graduation party break up, make up or attempt to act wild and crazy. Co-directed by Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan, the tiresome proceedings feature stereotyped characters lurching uneasily between looniness and loneliness. An implied sexual encounter, some underage drinking and verbal crudity with minimal profanity and rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment; also available in Blu-ray)

"Cape Fear" (1991)
Violent remake of the 1962 thriller has a Bible-spouting psychopath (Robert De Niro) imprisoned for viciously violating a woman returning to terrorize his former lawyer (Nick Nolte) and to rape the man's wife and teenage daughter (Jessica Lange and Juliette Lewis). Director Martin Scorsese loses the atmospheric terror of the original in favor of graphic brutality and a relentlessly ugly vision of the law as powerless to protect the innocent. Excessive violence, perverse sexual innuendo, adult endorsement of teen drug abuse and minimal rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Universal)

"Capote" (2005)
Gripping chronicle of writer Truman Capote (a superb Philip Seymour Hoffman) getting the inspiration to write his acclaimed "nonfiction novel," "In Cold Blood," after a Kansas farm family is brutally murdered; his probing interviews with the townspeople and the killers walk a fine line between calculation and compassion. Director Bennett Miller's sobering film masterfully re-creates the early 1960s as Capote travels back and forth from the superficial New York social scene to the bleak aura of death row at Leavenworth, with fine performances by Catherine Keener, Clifton Collins Jr., Chris Cooper and Amy Ryan. Brief violent images, an implied homosexual relationship, scattered profanity and rough language, crude expressions, a vulgar anecdote, sexual reference and a hanging. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Columbia/TriStar)
 

"Captain January" (1936) Rated "G" Formula sudser with loveable orphan Shirley Temple cared for by lighthouse keeper Guy Kibbee until the loss of his job forces him to seek out the child's rich relatives. Director David Butler covers the bases with occasional song-and-dance numbers, some playful humor and a capable supporting cast (Slim Summerville, Buddy Ebsen and Jane Darwell). Easy-going, unpretentious family fare. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted (Fox Home Entertainment).

"Carandiru" (2004)
Raw and rambling prison drama about life in an explosively overcrowded Latin American penitentiary as seen through the eyes of a humanitarian-minded doctor (Luis Carlos Vasconcelos) brought in to implement an AIDS-prevention program. Based on actual events which occurred at Brazil's notorious Sao Paulo House of Detention, the film, directed by Hector Babenco, conveys an almost palpable sense of confinement and tinderbox volatility, but falls short of compelling, in large part due to an unfocused, episodic script, and, despite an underlying theme of redemption, the doctor's nonjudgmental acceptance of the inmates' aberrant behavior.         Strong bloody violence including an intense riot sequence, several sexual encounters with partial nudity, a casual attitude toward homosexuality, recurring drug content and much rough and crude language.    The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Columbia/TriStar)

"The Cardinal" (1963)
Sprawling melodrama from Henry Morton Robinson's novel about the ecclesiastical rise of an Irish-American priest (Tom Tryon) from 1917 Boston to a post in the Vatican in 1924, who then becomes a bishop after tangling with the Ku Klux Klan in 1934 Georgia and is made a cardinal after tangling with the Nazis in 1938 Austria. Directed by Otto Preminger, the movie makes good use of the religious backgrounds and clerical roles (dying pastor Burgess Meredith, Boston cardinal John Huston and Vatican prelate Raf Vallone), but the central figure is pure cardboard and his moral crises unconvincing. Stylized violence, racial epithets and such moral issues as saving the life of the infant rather than the mother in a troubled childbirth and the temptation to leave the priesthood for the love of a woman. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Warner Bros.)

"The Care Bears Movie" (25th Anniversary Limited Edition) (1985)
The Care Bears are sweet little pastel-colored creatures who inhabit a gentle world called Care-a-Lot. Unless they teach the world to care, Care-a-Lot will fall into ruin. Very young children should appreciate this sentimental film with its catchy songs and admirable messages about love and compassion. The full-screen DVD looks very nice indeed, and features one of the first Care Bears television specials, "Professor Cold Heart and the Freeze Machine." More of the Care Bears TV series can be seen in "Care Bears: Care-a-Lot Adventures" and "Care Bears: Forest of Feelings," released simultaneously with the film. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted (MGM Home Entertainment).

"The Carol Burnett Show -- Let's Bump Up the Lights!" (2004)
The much-loved comic's TV special features a reunion with the series' original stars: Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, Tim Conway and Lyle Waggoner, with an emphasis on the Q-and-A with the audience that opened each episode, including a slew of vintage clips. They're all here: the requests for Carol's Tarzan yell or ear-pulling, kissing Lyle, requests for the restrooms, and other humorously mundane matters, all testament to the comforting, just-folks environment Burnett fostered. There's an OK new song for Burnett by her longtime writers Ken and Mitzi Welch about how posterity will remember her only for that Tarzan impersonation. Good entertainment overall, some mildly risque quips notwithstanding. The only criticism is that at 42 minutes, it's a shame some extra material couldn't be added, but all in all this is a delightful trip down memory lane. (CBS DVD/Paramount Home Entertainment)

"Carrie" (1952)
Elaborate sudser from the Theodore Dreiser novel about a country girl (Jennifer Jones) who gets a job in turn-of-the-century Chicago, is seduced by a salesman (Eddie Albert), then runs off with a married man (Laurence Olivier) to New York where she leaves him flat while finding fame on the stage. Director William Wyler's studied period piece arouses little interest in the characters and their woes, though Olivier's descent into penury gains some sympathy. Mature theme and treatment. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Paramount)

"Cars" (2006)
Delightful computer-animated movie set in a world of anthropomorphic autos about a cocky racecar (voiced by Owen Wilson) which, while en route cross-country to compete in a prestigious championship, is unexpectedly detained in a neglected desert town, where his growing friendship with the town's four-wheeled residents (Paul Newman and Bonnie Hunt, among them) effects a change of heart regarding fame in the fast lane. Co-directed by John Lasseter and Joe Ranft, the film has a full tank of humor and emotions -- not to mention bar-raising visuals -- while its solid storytelling imparts a charming message about taking the time to appreciate what really matters in life. The colorfully packaged DVD contains deleted scenes, two animated shorts and more. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted (Buena Vista Home Entertainment).

"Casablanca" (Ultimate Collector's Edition) (1942)
Classic romantic melodrama set in the refugee crossroads of French North Africa, where an American expatriate (Humphrey Bogart) helps the woman who broke his heart (Ingrid Bergman) and her husband (Paul Henreid), an underground leader, escape the Nazi dragnet. Directed by Michael Curtiz, the story is replete with World War II intrigue, sardonic humor, punchy dialogue ("Here's looking at you, kid!"), a great cast, including Claude Rains as a suave Vichy police officer, and Dooley Wilson's rendition of "As Time Goes By." Time stands still for this one, though the wartime atmosphere may be too menacing for the children. Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Warner Home Video; also available on Blu-ray)

"Casanova" (2005)
Handsome but leisurely paced period piece about history's most famous lover (Heath Ledger), focusing on a fictitious "secret" episode in his life: his incognito love affair with an 18th-century Venetian beauty (Sienna Miller) who writes feminist tracts under a male nom de plume. On the plus side, Lasse Hallstrom's film is well-acted, farcical without overdoing the slapstick, remarkably restrained in sexual matters, and even has a reasonably moral ending, but there's a surfeit of troublesome Inquisition-era jibes at the Catholic Church (including a comically villainous bishop played by Jeremy Irons), and an episode involving the seduction of a novice. Brief sexual episodes without nudity, innuendo, some crude expressions, pervasive anti-clerical view and a mild torture scene. Hallstrom provides the leisurely commentary on the handsome anamorphic widescreen DVD, which also includes a making-of featurette, and additional ones on the costume and production design, and an "extended" sequence from the film. The baroque soundtrack sounds especially good. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Touchstone Home Entertainment)

"Casino Royale" (2-Disc Widescreen Edition) (2006)
Adrenaline-charged adaptation of Ian Fleming's first James Bond novel (spoofed in a 1967 film of the same title) in which the iconic British superspy (Daniel Craig in his 007 debut) must infiltrate a high-stakes card game organized by a banker (Mads Mikkelsen) to international terrorists. Director Martin Campbell's addition to the franchise (the 21st overall) jettisons the campy elements of past films for a grittier, more serious return to the harder-edged tone of the books -- especially with regard to the violence -- blending virtuoso action sequences and substantial character development to show the origins of the Bond mythology. Virile yet vulnerable, Craig's secret agent is less the sophisticated playboy -- though there is the usual womanizing -- and more a brash and brooding assassin. Recurring strong action violence, including an intense torture scene, adultery, partial nudity, sexual situations and some mildly crude language. The anamorphic DVD looks good with the film on disc one, and the extras -- featurettes on the stunt work and action sequences, Craig's assumption of the role, and the reminiscences of former "Bond girls" such as Halle Berry, Ursula Andress and Honor Blackman -- on disc two. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment).

"Cassandra's Dream" (2008)
Fairly interesting but ultimately unconvincing London-based drama about two financially needy brothers (Ewan McGregor and Colin Farrell) asked by their rich uncle (Tom Wilkinson) to kill a business associate for pay. The two leads are excellent, but writer-director Woody Allen's Hitchcockian script fails to avoid a sense of contrivance, and Allen's nihilistic worldview, as espoused here by McGregor's character, is beginning to grow tiresome. An off-screen murder, brief violence, much conversational profanity, drug references, some brief sexual banter and nonmarital relationships. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Genius Productions, Inc.)

"Catch and Release" (2007)
Dour, slow-moving romantic comedy about a woman (Jennifer Garner) whose fiancee is killed shortly before their wedding who learns that he fathered a child with an out-of-town massage therapist (Juliette Lewis) who eventually comes to town with the child in tow, moving in with her and her fiance's buddies (Kevin Smith, Sam Jaeger and Timothy Olyphant) with ensuing romantic complications. Writer-director Susannah Grant's formulaic chick flick strains for credibility, the acting is bland (especially Olyphant as her principal love interest), and is unredeemed by the overall message of forgiveness and a reasonably moral wrap-up. Permissive sexual mores, intimate encounters (one intense but fully clothed, the other gauzily photographed with no actual nudity), sexual banter and innuendo, some crude language and expressions and profanity, a suicide attempt and drug use. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment).

"The Cave" (2005)
Schlocky horror action movie about a team of expert cave explorers (led by Cole Hauser and Eddie Cibrian) trapped miles beneath the surface, who, while struggling to find a way out, fall prey to an unknown subterranean species of ravenous creatures. Despite its creepy claustrophobic setting, Bruce Hunt's directorial debut provides few (even B-movie) jolts, resulting in a formulaic and forgettable group-peril flick that caves in under the weight of its illogical and hackneyed script. Recurring monster menace and bloody gore, as well as scattered crude language and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Columbia/TriStar)

"The Celestine Prophecy" (2006)
Spiritual action-adventure based on James Redfield's best-seller about an American teacher (Matthew Settle) who journeys into the Peruvian jungles, where he becomes involved in a high-stakes search for nine ancient scrolls of unknown origin that contain "insights" revealing steps to a higher mystical self-awareness -- or "God experience" -- and that prophesy an imminent next phase in mankind's spiritual evolution that will supersede organized religion. He is aided by an international group of initiates working to translate the scrolls, including a schismatic Catholic priest (Joaquim De Almeida), while a shadowy archeologist (Jurgen Prochnow), the country's military brass, and a nervous Catholic prelate (Hector Elizondo) conspire to thwart their efforts and suppress the scrolls' message. While the concept of the interconnectedness of reality, the underlying beauty and mystery of creation and the soul-nourishing power of love are ostensibly good, this is just typical New Age mysticism packaged as a grade-B action film, clumsily directed by Armand Mastroianni. The DVD also contains a standard "making of" featurette. Some action violence and theological views are incompatible with the Catholic understanding of reality. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment).

"Chandni Chowk to China" (2009)
In this flavorful yet prolix fusion of Bollywood cinema and Hong Kong martial arts, a clownish cook (Akshay Kumar) from Delhi travels to China to vanquish a gangster exploiting villagers near the Great Wall. He crosses paths with a set of female twins and is transformed into a fighter by their father, a kung fu master. Director Nikhil Advani blends music and melodrama, cartoonish humor and stylized action into a colorful spectacle that proves to be too much of too many things, destined to test the patience of uninitiated moviegoers as well as ardent fans of both genres. Frequent martial arts violence that is occasionally intense, and pervasive broad, if generally chaste, humor characteristic of the Bollywood idiom. In Hindi. English and Spanish titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III --adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Home Video)

"Charlie Wilson's War" (2007)
Adept, sophisticated political drama, based on real events, recounting how an obscure, high-living Texas congressman (Tom Hanks) united with a wealthy, ostensibly pious political supporter (Julia Roberts) and a gifted but volatile CIA agent (Philip Seymour Hoffman) to defeat the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Director Mike Nichols' rollicking film revels in the comic divide between its central character's disreputable lifestyle, which is portrayed at times quite graphically, and his historic achievement, with perhaps an invitation to excuse or even celebrate the one in light of the other. Sustained upper female and rear nudity, implied nonmarital sex, drug use, sexual humor, irreverent dialogue, pervasive rough and some crude and crass language, and scenes of wounded children. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. (Universal Studios Home Entertainment)

"Cheaper By the Dozen 2" (2005)
Agreeably entertaining sequel to the 2003 comedy which finds the Baker brood -- mom (Bonnie Hunt, dad (Steve Martin) and their 12 children -- vacationing at a lakefront cabin where their summer holiday unravels into a battle for bragging rights against a rival clan headed by a hypercompetitive blowhard (Eugene Levy). Director Adam Shankman serves up a similar helping of mildly amusing slapstick and heart-tugging sentiment, slightly more satisfying this time around, while again affirming a strong family-values message. Much comic mayhem, and some mildly crude humor, language and innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Fox Home Entertainment)

"The Christmas Toy" (1986)
This is puppeteer par excellence Jim Henson's delightful hourlong fable, set on Christmas Eve, in which Rugby (voice of Dave Goelz), a self-centered stuffed tiger, leaves the safety of the playroom he shares with a collection of other toys and risks being "frozen" if spotted out of place to relive the glory of the previous Christmas when he was his young owner's favorite gift, forcing his underappreciated sidekick Mew (voice of Steve Whitmire), a cat toy, and sensible redheaded doll Apple (voice of Kathryn Mullen) to follow on a rescue mission. Directed by Eric Till, this children's musical television special -- targeted for 2- to 8-year-olds -- though inevitably somewhat dated looking, emphasizes the enduring values of hospitality, openheartedness and selfless friendship. Full-screen DVD. (Lionsgate/HIT Entertainment)

"Christmas at Maxwell's" (2005)
Ohio-based wine merchant (Andrew May) copes with the cancer-related illness of his wife (Jack Hourigan), while raising their two children (Charlie and Julia May), and struggling with profound guilt about the past, until an elderly nursing home resident (Angus May) changes their lives at Christmastime in this Ohio-set tale. Inspired by personal experience, director-writer William C. Laufer (who also plays a priest) has made a heartfelt film with admirable messages about God's forgiveness, the strength of family and being a good Samaritan, and features a touching conclusion, but the picturesque film is handicapped by languid pacing, an episodic script and mostly colorless performances, except for a reasonably convincing Hourigan. Mild profanity, crass expressions, mild sexual innuendo and mature thematic material. The DVD includes a behind-the-scenes featurette, a director-producer commentary track and one deleted scene. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Laufer Film) (www.lauferfilm.com)

"A Christmas Story" (1983)
Adapted from Jean Shepherd's nostalgic piece of whimsy, "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash," the movie re-creates what it was like to be a boy (Peter Billingsley) yearning for a genuine Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas in the Midwest of the 1940s. Director Bob Clark gets some good performances from Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillon as the understanding parents and the period atmosphere is nicely conveyed in what is essentially a warm celebration of a more innocent, less sophisticated America. A few vulgar syllables. Spanish titles option. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Warner Home Video)

"The Christmas Toy" (1986)
This is puppeteer par excellence Jim Henson's delightful hourlong fable, set on Christmas Eve, in which Rugby (voice of Dave Goelz), a self-centered stuffed tiger, leaves the safety of the playroom he shares with a collection of other toys and risks being "frozen" if spotted out of place to relive the glory of the previous Christmas when he was his young owner's favorite gift, forcing his underappreciated sidekick Mew (voice of Steve Whitmire), a cat toy, and sensible redheaded doll Apple (voice of Kathryn Mullen) to follow on a rescue mission. Directed by Eric Till, this children's musical television special -- targeted for 2- to 8-year-olds -- though inevitably somewhat dated looking, emphasizes the enduring values of hospitality, openheartedness and selfless friendship. Full-screen DVD. (Lionsgate/HIT Entertainment)

"Christy" (The Complete Series) (1994-1995)
Four double-sided discs feature all 19 episodes of the CBS series based on Catherine Marshall's best-selling 1967 novel, in which a plucky girl of 19 decides to teach impoverished youngsters in 1912 Appalachia. Inspired by Quaker missionary Miss Alice (Tyne Daly), idealistic Christy Huddleston (Kellie Martin) leaves behind her comfortable urban family for remote Cutter Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains of east Tennessee, where in the one-room church-schoolhouse she is to teach children of all ages who are hungry, shoeless, bookless and, in the case of one little girl, mysteriously mute. Handsomely shot on location in the panoramic Great Smokies, the drama reflects Marshall's mother's real-life experiences teaching in just such a spot. Martin's expressive face conveys Christy's alternating determination to make a difference in the lives of her young charges as well as the frequent discouragement that tries her faith. With its above-average production values, "Christy" is quality family fare, and the title character is a potential role model for young viewers. DVD quality is fine (Fox Home Entertainment).

"The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" (Special Two-Disc Collector's Edition) (2005)
Captivating live-action fantasy adventure based on C.S. Lewis' beloved children's classic set in World War II-era England about four siblings (Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, William Moseley and Anna Popplewell), who, having been evacuated from London to the home of an eccentric professor (Jim Broadbent), stumble through a magical wardrobe into the enchanted realm of Narnia, where they help the wise and noble lion Aslan (voiced by Liam Neeson) defeat the evil White Witch (Tilda Swinton), who holds the land under an icy spell of eternal winter. Seeded with Christian symbolism and subtext, director Andrew Adamson's faithful adaptation balances spectacle with storytelling while exploring themes of good and evil to capture the childlike wonder that underscores Lewis' tale. Some battlefield violence, intense scenes of child peril and menace, and several frightening sequences. The anamorphic widescreen DVD features two commentaries: a rollicking reminiscence with Adamson and the four kids, and another informative one with Adamson, the producer and production designer, plus a short blooper reel. If you choose, you can watch the film with on-screen "pop-up facts" about the magic land. The second disc includes background documentaries on the director and the children, a look at how the C.S. Lewis work finally made it to the screen, and further information on Narnia, its characters and creatures. Highly recommended family viewing. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Walt Disney Home Entertainment)

"Cinderella III: A Twist in Time" (2007)
Remarkably good second sequel to the 1950 Disney animated classic has Cinderella's (voiced by Jennifer Hale) evil stepmother Lady Tremaine (Susanne Blakeslee) getting hold of the Fairy Godmother's magic wand one year after our heroine marries her prince (Christopher Daniel Barnes), and causing time to reverse so that the fateful slipper will fit her gawky daughter Anastasia (Tress MacNeille) instead. Cinderella must now -- with the help of her mouse friends Gus and Jac and those resourceful bluebirds -- get to the prince (under an amnesiac spell), convince him he's been duped and prevent a second wedding from taking place. Directed by Frank Nissen, the film -- replete with some pleasant (if contemporary-sounding) songs -- recreates the ambience of the original with remarkable fidelity, though Disney purists may argue otherwise, and the tightly plotted script includes some warmly sentimental stretches among the suspenseful and action-packed ones, imparting a solid message about the true meaning of love, and a touching conclusion involving sacrifice on the part of one character. The anamorphic DVD looks great, and features a music video with Hayden Panettiere, a game, and several DVD-ROM features with myriad activities. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted (Walt Disney Home Entertainment).

"City of Ember" (2008)
Imaginative futuristic tale about a doomed underground city whose inhabitants know nothing of the world above, and a brave girl (Saoirse Ronan) and resourceful inventor's son (Harry Treadaway) who try to discover the secret way out before the city's failing generator breaks down completely. With an intricate and clever production design, and an interesting cast including Bill Murray, Tim Robbins, Martin Landau and Toby Jones, first-time feature director Gil Kenan's well-paced adaptation of Jeanne DuPrau's novel imparts good values and makes excellent family entertainment for all but the youngest viewers who might be frightened by a particularly scary monster and some other scenes of peril. The DVD has no extra material. Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"CJ7" (2008)
Generally enchanting though somewhat flawed comic fable about an impoverished, shunned Chinese schoolboy (Xu Jiao) whose life is transformed when his hardworking, widowed father (Stephen Chow) brings a toy home from the garbage dump that turns out to be a doglike alien critter with supernatural powers. Chow, who also wrote and directed, hits the mark both humorously and dramatically, and his film offers a telling critique of cutthroat materialism, though its positive message and humane, even specifically Christian, values are undercut by a few distasteful scenes focused on the alien's doggy poop. Occasional crude language, comic-book violence and scatological humor, though probably acceptable for older teens. Added features on the widescreen DVD include commentary by the cast and crew and two making-of featurettes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment)

"Cleopatra" (1963)
Lumbering Hollywood epic of suds along the Nile as Egypt's queen (Elizabeth Taylor) makes a conquest of Julius Caesar (Rex Harrison), then after his assassination ensnares his avenger, Mark Antony (Richard Burton), but both commit suicide when cornered by the legions of Octavius (Roddy McDowall). Director Joseph L. Mankiewicz manages to hold interest for the first hour, chiefly in Harrison's portrayal of a man consumed by his ambitions, but the next three seem interminable as the gassy love story bogs down in tedium and the visual spectacle wears thin, save for the sea battle at Actium. Stylized violence, sexual situations and much sexual innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)

"Click" (2006)
Fitfully compelling fantasy about a workaholic architect (Adam Sandler) who receives a remote-control device from a mysterious inventor (Christopher Walken) allowing him to fast-forward through life. Frank Coraci's uneven and predictable film begins as a comedy (and a fairly crude one at that), then turns almost tragic when the protagonist gets a chance to see into the future, leading him to regret his all-consuming work habits and coming to the profound realization that family comes first. Sandler's performance, too, is a mix of his old-style lowbrow antics and impressive growing maturity, but the script for this "It's a Wonderful Life" retread could have been better. Unneeded vulgar humor including flatulence, innuendo, and sexual sight gags, crude language and expressions, profanity, promiscuity, ethnic stereotyping, transgender character and drug references. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 (Sony Pictures Home Entertainment).

"Cloverfield" (2008)
Skillful, effective horror exercise in which the amateur videotaping of a going-away party for a young executive (Michael Stahl-David) hosted by his brother (Mike Vogel) and attended by the girl who has awakened his interest (Odette Yustman), as well as a number of other friends (Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas and T.J. Miller), is interrupted by the arrival in Manhattan of a rampaging monster. Director Matt Reeves' film cleverly contrasts the intimate feel of the ubiquitous camcorder with the vast scale of the havoc being unleashed and also benefits from believable characters and a script rich in deadpan humor. Some graphic images of the wounded, two uses of the f-word, pervasive crude and frequent profane language, and sexual references. The DVD includes commentary by Reeves, a making-of backgrounder and other featurettes, a few so-so deleted scenes and two moderately alternate endings. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Paramount Home Entertainment)

"The Color Honeymooners: Collection One" (1966-67)
This three-DVD boxed set represents the first season of Jackie Gleason's return to his role as bus driver Ralph Kramden, expanded to 60-minute length, in color and with full-fledged musical numbers inserted throughout. Art Carney was back to re-create his inimitable sewer worker Ed Norton, but the wives were different. Blonde Sheila MacRae made a likable Alice -- ditto Jane Kean as Ed's mate, Trixie -- but neither could quite erase memories of Audrey Meadows and Joyce Randolph in the 1950s' version. There are some pearly moments, and the results are enjoyable, but the magic of the original isn't quite there. The songs and some interesting guest stars like comedian Louis Nye, Christopher Hewitt ("Mr. Belvedere"), and legendary Gilbert & Sullivan star Martyn Green, among others. There's an interesting feature on the production's highly publicized move to Miami. Good family viewing (MPI).

"Cranford" (2008)
First-rate adaptation of three Elizabeth Gaskell novels -- "Cranford," "My Lady Ludlow" and "Mr. Harrison's Confessions" -- which aired recently on PBS's "Masterpiece" series. An all-star cast, including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Michael Gambon, Imelda Staunton, Eileen Atkins, Alex Jennings, Julia McKenzie and Francesca Annis, plays the residents of the small English town in the 1840s whose lives are about to change with the arrival of the railway and a handsome new doctor (Simon Woods). Simon Curtis directed the five-part series. The DVD includes a nice half-hour making-of featurette. (BBC Video)

"Crossing Ways" (2005)
Well-intentioned drama about a motor-cross racer (Tom Swaida) whose Catholic faith strengthens him to overcome a painful family secret and mend emotional fences with his embittered alcoholic father (Joe Valle). Written and directed by Swaida, the low-budget digital film is handicapped by flat performances, poor sound quality and an amateur look. Yet the its redemptive ending imparts a heartfelt Gospel message about the healing power of forgiveness and reconciliation. The two-disc set includes a movie trailer, behind the scenes footage, bloopers, interviews and a music video, among other bonus features. Scenes of alcohol abuse and some mild domestic violence, involving shoving and shouting. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America. (Christian Film Brotherhood) (www.christianfilmbrotherhood.org, or (508) 398-7344)

"Cry Wolf" (2005)
Modestly involving teen thriller set in a posh prep school where, following an off-campus murder, a group of students (including Lindy Booth and Jared Padalecki) initiate a new arrival (Julian Morris) into their clique and, as a prank, concoct a story about a masked killer only to find themselves menaced by a real stalker -- eerily echoing their fabrications -- with no one to believe them. Directed by Jeff Wadlow, the low-budget film's "Ten Little Indians" story line is reasonably suspenseful despite genre cliches, and its better-than-average script -- littered with red herrings and capped with a surprise twist -- emphasizes psychological tension over slasher gore. Some bloody violence, sexual humor and suggestiveness, and sporadic crude language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"Castle Keep" (1969)
Screen version of novelist William Eastlake's surrealistic satire on the absurdity of war is set in a Gothic chateau with its priceless art treasures where an American major (Burt Lancaster) and a company of infantrymen prepare to make a stand against the German army's offensive at Bastogne. Regrettably, director Sydney Pollack fails to incorporate a convincing human and moral dimension to counterbalance the senseless heroics and casual sexual relationships that result. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is O -- morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R -- restricted. (Columbia/TriStar)

"Catch That Kid"/"Like Mike"
"Catch That Kid "(2004). Cleverly conceived but morally misguided kiddie caper about a 12-year-old girl (Kristen Stewart) and her two best friends, rival suitors (Max Thieriot and Corbin Bleu), who decide to break into a high-security bank in order to steal enough money to pay for her dad's costly, life-saving surgery. Despite a smart script and a fresh-faced cast that gives the film's shopworn heist plot a youthful twist, director Bart Freundlich uses an end-justifies-the-means attitude to rationalize his improbable premise, which, though ultimately discredited, makes it difficult to wholeheartedly applaud this otherwise entertaining movie. An ambiguous attitude toward larceny, minimal mildly crude humor and some action violence. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. "Like Mike" (2002). Sweet story about an orphaned boy (Lil Bow Wow) with dreams of being a famous basketball player who dons an old pair of Michael Jordan's sneakers and is suddenly able to lead a struggling NBA team to victory with his amazing hoop skills. Although director John Schultz's fantasy flick is predictable, the endearing underdog-turned-hero plot and nifty special effects, as well as the idea that every child deserves a family, are a winning combination. Although likely suitable for preteens, there are a few menacing moments and brief crass language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Fox)

"Catwoman" (2004)
Slick but soon-to-be-forgotten tale, loosely inspired by the comic-book character, about a mousy graphic artist (Halle Berry) working for a cosmetic conglomerate (headed by Lambert Wilson and Sharon Stone) who is killed for happening upon a corporate coverup, only to be reborn with superpowers, including catlike agility and stealth, which she uses to unleash her feline fury on her murderers. As directed by Pitof, neither slick visual effects nor Berry strutting her stuff in revealing skintight shredded leather can distract viewers from the film's shallow characterizations, clumsy dialogue and moral ambiguities. Recurring stylized violence and an implied sexual encounter. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Bros.)

"Cellular" (2004)
Somewhat satisfying fast-paced thriller about a kidnapped woman (Kim Basinger) whose life -- along with that of her young son -- hangs on the tenuous connection to a stranger's (Chris Evans) cell phone. Giving the old damsel-in-distress formula a wireless twist, director David R. Ellis' slim story about a good Samaritan slacker trying to save a woman he has never met is full of predictable popcorn thrills -- including high-octane car chases -- which, taken as a whole, add up to more than the sum of its B-movie parts. Recurring violence, some gore and terror situations, an instance of rough language, a crude gesture and some sexual humor, as well as crass language and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (New Line)

"Champions of Faith: Baseball" (Special Edition) (2007)
Handsomely shot hourlong documentary featuring interviews with six outstanding practitioners of America's pastime -- catcher Mike Piazza, shortstop David Eckstein, pitcher Jeff Suppan, first baseman Mike Sweeney, manager Jack McKeon and coach Rich Donnelly -- during which they discuss the role the Catholic faith has played in shaping their lives and careers. Along with narration by sportscaster John Morales, director Tom Allen's film includes a host of briefer faith-based affirmations from other field and clubhouse figures. (TLA Releasing)

"Chaos Theory" (2008)
Passable, though somewhat far-fetched, romantic tale in which an uptight efficiency lecturer (Ryan Reynolds) uncovers a devastating secret about his wife (Emily Mortimer) and becomes recklessly adventurous, despite grave concerns by the wife and his best friend (Stuart Townsend). Director Marcos Siega's uneven film is part character study, part family melodrama, but its emphasis on loyalty, love and forgiveness compensates for some dramatic unsteadiness. The DVD includes both widescreen and full-screen formats and three unremarkable deleted scenes. Spanish titles option. Adultery, implied nonmarital and premarital sex, sexual humor, permissive reference to birth control, one use of the f-word, some crude language and a few profanities. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Warner Home Video)

"Charley's Aunt" (1941)
Rarely seen version of Brandon Thomas' classic with Jack Benny playing Lord Babberly, an Oxford student, who impersonates the aunt of one of his chums (Richard Haydn) in a scheme to help the friend woo the girl he loves (Anne Baxter), until the real aunt (Kay Francis) shows up and complications ensue. Director Archie Mayo's film takes some liberties with the original plot, and Benny, though amusing as the aunt, is too American for this very English story, but the handsome production and solid supporting cast including Edmund Gwenn, Laird Cregar and Reginald Owen counterbalance some overdone slapstick. The DVD includes lively, informative commentary by film historian Randy Skretvedt, and "Three of a Kind," a promotional short for the film from the period. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (Fox Home Entertainment).

"Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (2005)
Entertaining and stylish remake of 1971's "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory," as sweet-natured young Charlie (Freddie Highmore), along with four bratty children, wins a visit to a mysterious emporium, run by the reclusive candy-maker Wonka (Johnny Depp). Tim Burton's take on the Roald Dahl tale is predictably darker than the bright Gene Wilder version, but it's hugely inventive, combining Dickensian atmospherics with mordant wit and featuring an understated, slyly humorous performance by Depp, who seems at times to be channeling Michael Jackson's Neverland persona. The plot contains positive messages about family, loyalty and unselfishness, and only a few scenes of tongue-in-cheek peril that might upset the very youngest viewers. The DVD print looks great, though there's no commentary. The second disc is filled with extras: a feature about the fabulous squirrel attack scene, a biography of Dahl, a look at actor Deep Roy's transformation into all the Oompa Loompas, and other background features, plus a host of activities for the kids. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Warner Bros.)

"Chicago" (2002)
Zesty musical set in Prohibition-era Chicago finds two rival song-and-dance gals (Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones) each jailed for murder using the same unscrupulous attorney (Richard Gere) to exploit their celebrity and get them off the hook. Adapted from Bob Fosse's 1975 Broadway show, director Rob Marshall's spirited black comedy weaves fantasy and reality together for a naughty, razzle-dazzle take on the corrupting power of greed and fame. Brief violence, a fleeting sexual encounter, double entendres, intermittent profanity and an instance of rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Buena Vista)

"Chicago: The Razzle Dazzle Edition" (2002)
Zesty musical set in Prohibition-era Chicago finds two rival song-and-dance gals (Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones), each jailed for murder, using the same unscrupulous attorney (Richard Gere) to exploit their celebrity and get them off the hook. Adapted from Bob Fosse's 1975 Broadway show, director Rob Marshall's spirited black comedy weaves fantasy and reality together for a naughty, razzle-dazzle take on the corrupting power of greed and fame. Brief violence, a fleeting sexual encounter, double entendres, intermittent profanity and an instance of rough language. The second DVD issue of the Oscar-winning film is a two-disc special edition, with far more extras than the no-frills first issue. The audio commentary by Marshall and writer Bill Condon is carried over from that version, along with the cut number, "Class" (but be warned the lyrics are vulgar, if satiric). The second disc includes extended versions of the musical numbers, though in some cases, this means only extra rehearsal footage, a look at a young Liza Minnelli reminiscing about her stint in the Broadway production, an interview with original star Chita Rivera and more. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Miramax)

"Chicken Run" (2000)
Delightful clay animation feature about a plucky chicken (voice of Julia Sawalha) and her hen pals cooped up in a British egg farm who, with the help of a flying Yankee rooster (voice of Mel Gibson), must escape the cruel clutches of the egg farmer (voice of Miranda Richardson) before she turns them into chicken pies. Though the story lags in parts and some jokes may go over children's heads, fantastic anthropomorphized features and the narrative's witty details make directors Peter Lord and Nick Park's first full-length feature both visually pleasing and cleverly amusing despite a few intense moments. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. (Universal)

"The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian" (Three-Disc Collector's Edition) (2008)
Exciting and well-crafted if less emotionally absorbing follow-up to 2005's "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" has the Pevensie siblings (William Moseley, Anna Popplewell, Skandar Keynes and Georgie Henley) returning to Narnia to help the title character (Ben Barnes) stage a revolt against his evil uncle. The bellicose nature of the proceedings and uneven attempts by director and co-writer Andrew Adamson to inject humor and romance don't prevent this faithful adaptation of the second volume in C.S. Lewis' classic series from being salubrious entertainment. Battlefield violence and deadly hand-to-hand combat, an implied decapitation, a brawl involving schoolchildren, some intense scenes of child peril and several frightening sequences. The generously packed DVD includes commentary by Adamson and the cast, 10 deleted scenes, bloopers, bounteous feature material and a digital copy of the film. Spanish language and titles options. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment; also available on Blu-ray)

"The Chronicles of Riddick" (2004)
Bloated sci-fi tale in which an escaped convict (Vin Diesel) is called upon to save what's left of humanity from a ruthless megalomaniac (Colm Feore) and his virtually indestructible army of former-humans-turned-robots. Aside from an impressive production design, writer-director David Twohy's special-effects-laden action film remains grounded by its murky narrative, dull characters and leaden pacing. Recurring stylized violence, minimal profanity and an instance of rough language. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"The Chorus (Les Choristes)" (2005)
Glossily sentimental and heart-tugging French film about a failed musician (Gerard Jugnot) who takes a teaching job at a boarding school for troubled boys in the late 1940s and helps them overcome their delinquent and violent ways by forming a choir, under the disapproving eye of the school's autocratic principal (Francois Berleand). Christophe Barratier's film about the healing power of music features first-rate performances, and heavenly singing by the boys -- once they get going -- making this a surefire audience pleaser even as the setup is transparently manipulative. Some crude language, a brief verbal suggestion of sexual impropriety and a few violent episodes. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children  under 13. (Buena Vista)

"Cinderella Man" (2005)
Moving true-life story of Depression-era boxer Jimmy Braddock (Russell Crowe in top form) who -- after several years out of the ring, working on the docks -- took up fighting again to support his loving wife (Renee Zellweger) and their three young children, and against all odds made a tremendous comeback, eventually going up against the notorious Max Baer (Craig Bierko). Director Ron Howard has made an absorbing film with first-rate performances (including that of Paul Giamatti as his manager) and authentic period flavor; though the boxing sequences are strong they're far less graphic than similarly themed films, and the human story of Jimmy's devotion to his family is paramount. Much period profanity, some crude language and ring violence with blood. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal)

"A Cinderella Story" (2004)
Light but lackluster teen romantic comedy set in Southern California about a slaving high school senior (Hilary Duff) whose hopes of happily-ever-after with a quarterback Prince Charming (Chad Michael Murray) are stymied by her wicked stepmom (Jennifer Coolidge). Director Mark Rosman gives the familiar fairy tale a contemporary makeover, stripping its fantasy elements, while retaining its sweet sense of storybook romance. Some mildly crude language, humor and innuendo. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG -- parental guidance suggested. (Warner Bros.)

"Cinderella III: A Twist in Time" (2007)
Remarkably good second sequel to the 1950 Disney animated classic has Cinderella's (voiced by Jennifer Hale) evil stepmother Lady Tremaine (Susanne Blakeslee) getting hold of the Fairy Godmother's magic wand one year after our heroine marries her prince (Christopher Daniel Barnes), and causing time to reverse so that the fateful slipper will fit her gawky daughter Anastasia (Tress MacNeille) instead. Cinderella must now -- with the help of her mouse friends Gus and Jac and those resourceful bluebirds -- get to the prince (under an amnesiac spell), convince him he's been duped and prevent a second wedding from taking place. Directed by Frank Nissen, the film -- replete with some pleasant (if contemporary-sounding) songs -- recreates the ambience of the original with remarkable fidelity, though Disney purists may argue otherwise, and the tightly plotted script includes some warmly sentimental stretches among the suspenseful and action-packed ones, imparting a solid message about the true meaning of love, and a touching conclusion involving sacrifice on the part of one character. The anamorphic DVD looks great, and features a music video with Hayden Panettiere, a game, and several DVD-ROM features with myriad activities. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I -- general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G -- general audiences. All ages admitted (Walt Disney Home Entertainment).

The anniversary version of 'Cinderella' on DVD: Try it on for size
By Harry Forbes Catholic News Service
NEW YORK (CNS) -- Leave it to Disney to throw a red-carpet premiere for an animated movie that's 55 years old!
   And the glittering event at New York's Ziegfeld Theatre Oct. 2 -- which brought out everyone from Star Jones Reynolds to Molly Shannon -- was not even to celebrate a theatrical reissue of a classic film, but rather to promote a DVD release.
   However, the film in question is one of Disney's most beloved: 1950's "Cinderella," and even though, yes, it was once available on VHS, and then again on laserdisc (does anyone remember laserdiscs?), its release in a handsomely packaged two-disc "platinum edition" DVD from Buena Vista Home Entertainment is something to get excited about. As it's from an era where children's entertainment had an innocence sadly lacking today, and Disney was the gold standard, it's a must for any home library.
   Though from an artistic perspective, the film is less detailed than the Disney films of a decade before, and there's too much of the mice and the mean cat Lucifer, these are quibbles. For most people, these iconic images are what makes "Cinderella." This is, moreover, a superb restoration, where picture and sound are all you could ask for. The film's dialogue and songs can be heard in French and Spanish. The two discs are loaded with nearly all of the essential material previously released on the jam-packed laserdisc, but with a good deal more as well.
   We could live without the perfectly awful disco-music video of "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and the well-produced but utterly gratuitous Cinderella sports stories from ESPN, hosted by Joe Namath, but the second disc is loaded with the goodies that Disney fanatics and film buffs will crave: two never-used musical sequences re-created with storyboards, "The Work Song" and "Dancing on a Cloud"; seven demo recordings of songs that didn't make it; three radio segments with the delightful voice of Cinderella, Ilene Woods, then a young mother with a 3-year-old; and body double Helene Stanley's appearance on a Disney TV show.
   There are several interesting documentaries, including a 45-minute history of the film "From Rags to Riches" featuring cogent commentary by film historians such as John Canemaker and Christopher Finch, several of the animators, and voice stars Woods and Mike Douglas (the future talk show host who was the singing voice of the Prince); along with featurettes about earlier plans to film the fairy tale; the so-called "Nine Old Men," Disney's core animators; and artist Mary Blair, whose designs permeated the Disney films of that era. And did we mention a plethora of games and activities for the kids?
   The digital image on the screen of the Ziegfeld Theatre was amazingly sharp and the colors were richly saturated -- as they also are, it goes without saying, on the DVD. Along with the little princesses dressed to the nines, there was June Foray -- the voice of Lucifer the cat, and later Rocket J. Squirrel and Natasha from "Rocky & Bullwinkle" -- along with the Fairy Godmother from the TV musical version: Celeste Holm, looking radiant even without her wand.
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