The winter is the absolute best time for DVD buyers. The summer blockbusters all are released within the period of a month or two. That's great for the buyer, but probably not so great for their wallet (but hey, a little splurging never hurt anyone). Several of the movies listed below are out much earlier than I had expected, though again, that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Star Trek - November 17
This space epic from J.J. Abrams featured a stunningly complex storyline, an all-star cast, and effectually rebooted a dying franchise. Reviews of the film were overwhelmingly positive, and a sequel is already in the works. Star Trek will be released in both standard and special editions.
Bruno - November 17
Also out on November 17, this film is the opposite of Star Trek. Starring Sacha Baron Cohen as a gay Austrian fashionista, this movie is a mockumentary that recieved much criticism upon its release for its explicit content, which includes a dialogue between Bruno and a talking penis. However, if you liked Cohen's previous effort, Borat, you'll most likely like this satire.
Angels & Demons - November 24
While its source material had some flaws, this adaptation of Dan Brown's novel removed these flaws, and was in essence a much more fast-paced and entertaining film than its predecessor, 2006's The Da Vinci Code. The third film in the series, The Lost Symbol is set to be released in 2012. The film will be released in both standard and special editions.
Funny People - November 24
While opinions were mixed about Judd Apatow's first serious film, there's no doubt that Funny People had a heart, and featured funnyman Adam Sandler in his most serious and best role yet. This release will contain both an unrated and theatrical cut of the film.
Terminator Salvation -- December 1
This film attempted to revitalize the Terminator franchise, which had been dead since 2003's Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines. However, as many critics will tell you, it failed in that regard, instead being a heartless film with no real emotion. This film will be released on DVD in the theatrical cut, while the director's cut will be only available on Blu-Ray.
Public Enemies -- December 8
One of my favorite films of the summer, this period drama focuses on John Dillinger, played by Johnny Depp, throughout his criminal career. While it meanders at times, it is very well-done, and the acting is solid. The film will be available in a two-disc special edition.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince -- December 8
The sixth film in the blockbuster series, Prince was criticized for its focus on melodrama but was still one of the best rated films in the series. Two films (Deathly Hallows split into two parts) will be released in 2010 and 2011. The film will be released in both standard and special editions, as well as a six-film set of all the films (which is really unwise to buy until the final two films are released).
The Hangover -- December 15
This buddy comedy was a surprise hit, featuring the tale of three friends in Vegas in the aftermath of a bachelor party that they can't remember. Featuring over the top laffs, this will be a sure-fire bestseller. Available in both a single-disc theatrical cut and a two-disc unrated edition.
Inglourious Basterds - December 15
Famed director Quentin Tarantino's newest film was lauded by critics fo
r a surprise ending. Starring Brad Pitt and Eli Roth, this film will be released as a two-disc edition.
District 9 - December 29
While missing the Christmas rush, this critically lauded film is both a great action film and a thought-provoking social commentary. A two-disc edition is slotted for release as well.
9 - December 29
The second film with "9" in the title to come out on December 29, 9 is the animated dystopian film featuring puppets, or stitchpunks. It's a very darkly done adventure film, and is being released a mere 3 1/2 months after its theatrical release.
