Review: The end goal is all that matters in this week’s releases (Includes first-hand account)

This rousing documentary showcases the building of America as a nation through the telling of historical events, including the creation of the postage stamp by the Irish, the aid Germans provided to the Union Army in the Civil War, the Great Migration of African-Americans to the North and West, and much more. With geographical imagery and CGI effects, the series features interviews with descendants of the historical figures whose stories are told throughout documentary.

Focusing on specific themes of land, war, opportunity and disaster, this TV special recounts and recreates the migratory journeys of some of the largest ethnic populations in the United States. Although there were more widespread motivations that led to people leaving their homes for foreign lands, each section highlights the story of a specific person whose tale is representative of many others and whose ancestors continue to reside in the same state. As a result, even the more widely known accounts of migration are enhanced with the lesser known specifics of a real person’s experiences passed down through generations via family lore, the occasional diary and surviving artifacts. The visual representation of dense populations in particular areas also supports the many stories told throughout the documentary.

There are no special features. (Lionsgate Home Entertainment)

American Gods: Season 1 (Blu-ray & Digital copy)

When Shadow Moon (Ricky Whittle) is released from prison, he meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday (Ian McShane) and a storm begins to brew. Little does Shadow know, this storm will change the course of his entire life. Left adrift by the recent, tragic death of his wife and suddenly hired as Mr. Wednesday’s bodyguard, Shadow finds himself in the center of a world that he struggles to understand. It’s a hidden world where magic is real, and where the Old Gods fear both irrelevance and the growing power of the New Gods, like Technology and Media. Mr. Wednesday seeks to build a coalition of Old Gods to defend their existence in this new America and reclaim some of the influence that they’ve lost. As Shadow travels across the country with Mr. Wednesday, he struggles to accept this new reality and his place in it.

This new TV series is based on Neil Gaiman‘s award-winning book of the same name. Sharing several of the themes first seen in his comic book series, The Sandman, the story was largely thought to be unfilmable, but a high-production TV show seems well-suited to the multi-faceted tale. Shadow’s dreams are epic fantasies that are sometimes prophetic, while the New Gods’ faceless minions are killed in gushing fountains of blood. Each episode also includes the ancient tale of a god or people who encountered a deity, providing audiences with a greater understanding of the story world. Moreover, since the show airs on Starz, there is a fair amount of nudity (which is refreshingly and primarily male).

Special features include: commentary by cast and crew on the premiere and finale episodes; “The Road to American Gods”; “Title Gods”; “American Gods Origins”; “Old Gods”; “New Gods”; “What is American Gods?”; “Book vs. Show”; “God Squad” video documentary; and explore the Crocodile Bar in 360 degrees with commentary by cast and crew. (Lionsgate Home Entertainment)

The Big Sick (Blu-ray & Digital copy)

This film is based on the real-life relationship and culture clash between comedian Kumail Nanjiani and his future wife, Emily Gordon. When Emily (Zoe Kazan) contracts a mysterious illness, Kumail (Nanjiani) has to force himself to face her feisty parents (Holly Hunter and Ray Romano), temper his family’s expectations and follow his heart.

It’s not often a movie includes such realistic characters that are as entertaining as they are relatable. Kumail and Emily have a normal relationship that includes embarrassing revelations, sweatpants and laughter. Emily’s parents are loving people who are understandably anxious but trying to keep a brave face, each dealing with the increasing complexity of their daughter’s condition the best they can. Kumail’s interactions with them are naturally awkward, yet some of the most honest of the entire film. In spite of dealing with a fairly serious subject, there is a lot of humour in this movie. Even more notably, it never feels forced. Audiences will find themselves laughing through the entire picture before it finally puts a sappy smile on their already smirking faces.

Special features include: commentary by cast and filmmakers; deleted scenes; making-of featurette; “The Real Story”; “The Big Sick: The Other Stuff”; and 2017 SXSW Film Festival panel. (Elevation Pictures)

Dreamgirls (Blu-ray, DVD & Digital copy)

Set in the 1960s, singers Effie (Jennifer Hudson), Lorrell (Anika Noni Rose), and Deena (Beyoncé Knowles) are discovered at a local talent show by ambitious manager Curtis Taylor Jr. (Jamie Foxx). The trio known as “The Dreamettes” is soon offered the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of opening for popular singer James “Thunder” Early (Eddie Murphy). Subsequently molded by Taylor and propelled into the spotlight as “The Dreams,” the girls find their bid for the big time taking priority over personal friendship, and begin to realize that the true cost of fame may be higher than any of them ever anticipated.

Based loosely on the rise to fame of The Supremes, this Motown musical adapted from the Broadway show is boosted by a memorable soundtrack and amazing performers. In spite of losing American Idol, this Oscar-winning role put Hudson at the top. Effie is a very talented young woman, but that appears to be of no consequence to the businessmen running their careers. Although Curtis gradually proves he doesn’t take anything into consideration that doesn’t contribute to his bank account. This is a fantastic ensemble that not only captures the essence of their characters and the times in which they lived, but also the soul of the songs that often replace the use of dialogue to express their emotions.

Special features include: director’s extended edition; and Jennifer Hudson’s auditions and screen test. (Paramount Home Media Distribution)

Dynasty: The Complete Series (DVD)

The extravagant lives of the super-rich Carrington family — oil tycoon Blake Carrington (John Forsythe), his manipulative ex-wife Alexis (Joan Collins) and Krystie Carrington (Linda Evanst), Blake’s new wife and Alexis’ nemesis — is exposed as they clash over money, sex and power.

Produced by TV legend Aaron Spelling, this over-the-top drama changed the entertainment landscape. It gave birth to the popular prime-time dramas that would lead to the creation of Beverly Hills: 90210 and Melrose Place, which in turn paved the way for most salacious dramas to adorn the small screen. Lasting nine seasons and 220 episodes, it was conceived as a network competitor the equally popular Dallas. It wasn’t long before the Golden Globe-winning series became the No. 1 watched show in the U.S. as audiences tuned in to see who might get slapped each week. The show has been rebooted on the CW network, but there’s something about that era and this series that can never be recreated.

Special features include: “Family, Furs and Fun: Creating Dynasty”; interactive family tree; Entertainment Tonight interview from 1985; and character profiles. (Paramount Home Media Distribution)

Ernie Kovacs: Take A Good Look – The Definitive Collection (DVD)

Ernie Kovacs was a consummate comedian, influencing TV funnymen such as Johnny Carson, David Letterman, Jim Henson, Pee-wee Herman, Billy Crystal, as well as Monty Python and Saturday Night Live. This is Kovacs’ aphoristic “if a tree falls in the woods” answer to the panel quiz show. Kovacs turns the secret guest show formula on its ear and almost inverts it. In this game, it is the host who gives the panel hints about the secret guest’s identity in the form of surreal sight gags, blackouts and sketches.

This is a slightly more complicated quiz show than average, though it does allow for Kovacs to demonstrate his astounding creativity. On the other hand, Kovacs’ clues only make sense if the player already knows the secret guest’s identity. As a result, they often don’t make sense — to those at home or the panelists who regularly complained to Kovacs over the show’s two seasons. Instead, everyone can just enjoy the imagination that went into the unusual clues and vignettes. Contemporary audiences new to the show may find they have additional difficulties since the guests are often plucked from “recent” news headlines (the show aired between 1959 and 1961).

Special features include: a short essay about the program by film & TV historian Ben Model. (Shout Factory)

Girls Trip (Blu-ray, DVD & Digital copy)

When four lifelong friends (Regina Hall, Tiffany Haddish, Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah) travel to New Orleans for the annual Essence Festival, sisterhoods are rekindled, wild sides are rediscovered, and there’s enough dancing, drinking, brawling and romancing to make the Big Easy blush.

As most people over the age of 30 know, spending time with your college friends gets increasingly difficult — that’s why there are so many movies about the subject. These ladies haven’t reunited under the pretext of a celebration, but rather just because it’s about time and someone else is footing the bill. However, finding a balance between outrageous and occasionally gross-out comedy and sisterly drama is not an easy task. As a result, this movie feels like it’s constantly jumping gears, which makes for a very uneven, sometimes uncomfortable, ride. For example, the transition from drug-induced hallucinations to a legit dance-off to a barroom brawl is almost non-existent. Conversely, the more serious elements involving Hall’s character and her struggle with fame or happiness is far more enticing than any of their over-the-top hijinks.

Special features include: commentary by director Malcolm D. Lee; deleted scenes with commentary by Lee; “Planning the Trip”; “Outrageous Moments”; “The Essence of NOLA”; extended performance of “Because of You” by Ne-Yo; and outtakes. (Universal Pictures Home Entertainment)

Justice (Blu-ray & Digital copy)

It’s 1968 and the Civil War has been over for three years. An old, abandoned mine is now being transformed into a military stronghold by a corrupt mayor (Stephen Lang) and a band of bloodthirsty outlaws hell-bent on reigniting the war. When a U.S. Marshal (Jackson Rathbone) comes to town only to find out that his brother, the town priest, has been murdered, his search for the killer leads to an inevitable clash that becomes a life or death struggle for a much greater cause.

This is a fairly typical Western plot in which a gunslinger still holding onto a sense of lawfulness enters a town that has been overwhelmed by corruption. His instinct is to return justice to the town, but he quickly discovers that’s easier said than done. In this case, the mayor and his cohorts are not strictly serving their greed but what they consider a much grander cause to revive the South. However, even in this context, the picture doesn’t offer much beyond its predecessors — except that when the townsfolk are called upon, they don’t cower in corners like many did before them. The movie is a perfectly adequate addition to the genre, but it’s definitely not breaking any new ground.

There are no special features. (Universal Pictures Home Entertainment)

Lady Macbeth (DVD)

Rural England, 1865. Katherine (Florence Pugh) is stifled by her loveless marriage to a bitter man twice her age, whose family is cold and unforgiving. When she embarks on a passionate affair with a young worker (Cosmo Jarvis) on her husband’s estate, a force is unleashed inside her, so powerful that she will stop at nothing to get what she wants.

While the title is somewhat indicative of its protagonist’s actions, Katherine is far more cunning and cruel than the film’s namesake. There’s no denying she’s been dealt a bad hand as she’s disrespected daily in what is supposed to be her new home. Therefore, it’s not surprising she seeks the comforts of another man when her “owners” are away on business. However, her desire for this man brings out a ruthlessness in her that destroys anyone who will stand in her way of being with him. His passion for her, on the other hand, burns comparatively less brightly and the extreme measures she takes to preserve their relationship wears on his conscience. This gothic tale of love and murder slowly pulls viewers into Katherine’s world and winds them around her little finger.

Special features include: behind-the-scenes featurette; and photo gallery. (D Films)

Marcella: Season One (DVD)

After taking a career break to raise her children, Detective Sergeant Marcella Backland (Anna Friel) rejoins the London Metropolitan Police following the abrupt end of her marriage. She jumps right into one of her old cases when a serial murderer known as the Grove Park Killer seemingly resurfaces. But as Marcella dives deeper into the case, the devastating changes to her personal life leave her in a fragile state. Struggling to cope, she experiences blackouts and extreme rage. When someone close to her estranged husband (Nicholas Pinnock) is murdered, Marcella fears she may have been involved.

While the murder investigation is the primary narrative, Marcella’s unstable mental health is an equally formidable driving force of the season. Marcella was formerly known as a superior investigator with good instincts, but the lead detective is unfamiliar with her history and unwilling to follow her hunches even though they are often proven correct. But on the flipside of her notable police skills, Marcella is possibly committing violent crimes she can’t remember and may be implicated in or jeopardizing her own case. These contradictory aspects of her life make for an interesting crime drama that takes the “crazy cop” narrative a step further. While the answers are made clear by the end of the season, there are issues still unresolved that will likely resurface in season two.

There are no special features. (Acorn)

Planes, Trains and Automobiles (Blu-ray, DVD & Digital copy)

Neal Page (Steve Martin) is an uptight advertising executive trying to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. When his flight is rerouted to Wichita, he reluctantly partners with Del Griffith (John Candy), an obnoxious yet loveable salesman. Together, they embark on a cross-country adventure that includes various modes of transportation, comical mishaps, and unforgettable rental car shenanigans.

While director John Hughes was primarily known for the teen dramas that gave birth to the “Brat Pack,” he also made some equally memorable comedies about adults. This is a classic story about two characters that couldn’t be more different but are forced into impossible situations together. In this case, Neal will do almost anything to get back to his family on time… including spending several miserable days with a man he despises but would grow to love. Del is loud, annoying, untidy and unreliable — though he does occasionally come through with a more-or-less feasible plan that provides minimal comfort or progress. The difficulties they run into during their travels are unimaginable and hilarious, making this a timeless comedy that never falters.

Special features include: deleted scene; “Getting There is Half the Fun: The Story of Planes, Trains and Automobiles”; “John Hughes: Life Moves Pretty Fast”; “John Hughes: The Voice of a Generation”; “Heartbreak and Triumph: The Legacy of John Hughes”; “John Hughes for Adults”; and “A Tribute to John Candy.” (Paramount Home Media Distribution)

Red Christmas (Blu-ray)

Diane (Dee Wallace) is a matriarch presiding over the gathering of her squabbling grown children on Christmas Day. Tensions give way to terror when a deformed stranger appears at the door with vengeance on his mind. Diane must protect her family as limbs are severed and secrets are brought into the light.

To put things into context since it’s fairly difficult to spoil a movie with this obvious a “twist,” the film opens with the bombing of an abortion clinic and the supposed rescue of a fetus. Decades later, the now-grown aborted fetus returns to take revenge. This story is incredibly problematic as it represents both sides of the pro-life/pro-choice argument to some extent. The former has zeroed in on the fantastical idea that the aborted fetus would still be alive and viable, while the remainder of the narrative represents its introduction to the family as a destructive and fatal force never meant to exist. The brief discussion in the bonus features between writer/director Bob and Wallace reveal their perspectives on the controversy, but it’s still a challenging watch.

Special features include: commentary by director Craig Anderson; a deleted scene; “Dee Wallace Speaks”; “An Interview with Gerald Odwyer”; Craig Anderson mini-interview; and blooper reel. (Artsploitation Films)

Rock Dog (Blu-ray & DVD)

Bodi (Luke Wilson), a wide-eyed Tibetan Mastiff, is expected to become the next village guard to a group of fun-loving, countryside sheep, but fears he doesn’t have the passion to assume the role from his dad, Khampa (J.K. Simmons). Everything changes when a radio literally falls out of the sky and Bodi hears a song by rock legend Angus Scattergood (Eddie Izzard), opening his heart to a musical world he must explore. Leaving home to chase his destiny in the big city, Bodi attracts the attention of Khampa’s nemesis, Linnux (Lewis Black). Leader of a hungry wolf pack, Linnux believes that Bodi is his ticket back into the village and closer to delicious sheep. It’s up to Bodi to save his family and friends from harm without giving up his newfound dream.

This independent animated film has an exceptional voice cast that truly enrich their respective characters. Wilson’s enthusiastic naiveté is balanced with a sincere kindness that makes Bodi immediately likeable. On the other hand, Izzard knows exactly how to project a conceited rock star with a flashy personality. Black never disappoints, though his typical angry shtick is toned down and transformed into a demanding boss. Notably, Sam Elliott plays a sage character that offers Bodi advice and guides the overall narrative with his deep, soothing voice. With a solid soundtrack and entertaining characters, this film is a fun watch that should’ve had legs in the mainstream.

Special features include: interview with director Ash Brannon; interview with creator Zheng Jun; “Believe”; and “Glorious” sing-along music video. (Universal Pictures Home Entertainment)

Shopkins: World Vacation (DVD)

This sequel sees Kooky Cookie win the trip of a lifetime to London, but it’s not long before plans start going awry. Soon Kooky Cookie and her pals are hopping from Paris to New York to Tokyo. But with the mischievous Biscuit Bandits on the loose, can the Shopkins and Shoppies save the day?

This miniature toy phenomenon is expanding with the addition feature-length movies that use an outrageous narrative to further promote the product line. In this instance, Kooky Cookie is innocently caught in the middle of a jewel heist and unknowingly made one of the Bandits’ accomplices. As she makes global headlines as first a fashion icon and then a wanted jewel thief, her friends try to sort through the imposters and save her. The film is cute and colourful like the toys, and the story is somewhat episodic and silly as expected.

Special features include: “Shopkins Bring Europe to Jessicake”; “Move It Like You Mean It Karaoke”; and “Ready To Go Karaoke.” (Universal Pictures Home Entertainment)

Shot Caller (Blu-ray & DVD)

When a DUI turns deadly, an unsuspecting father, Jacob (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), must go to extreme lengths to survive in a maximum-security prison.

This is a raw and disturbing portrait of a man pushed to his limits and forced to work within a system that demands his soul. Jacob makes a terrible mistake one night, but because it was lethal he is incarcerated with men whose crimes were less than accidental. To survive, he must align himself with one of the ruling criminal factions who have no interest in his business acumen — only that he can follow orders and wield a shiv. It’s a surprisingly powerful film that carries even greater impact because his journey to the top of the food chain isn’t revealed until later in the film. Coster-Waldau is compelling and a key contributor to the film’s excellence.

Special features include: filmmaker commentary; and “Inside Job.” (Lionsgate Home Entertainment)

Step (DVD)

Set against the backdrop of Baltimore’s inner city, the documentary chronicles the senior year of a girls’ high school step dance team. Empowered by their teachers, coaches, families and each other, they strive to win a championship and go to college.

While the documentary doesn’t dive too deeply into these girls’ lives, you have to respect director Amanda Lipitz’s decision not to exploit the teens while also applaud the dancers for sharing as much as they do about their personal histories and struggles. Filmmakers focus on a couple of the girls — one vying for a full scholarship to a prestigious U.S. college and the other coping with difficulties at home and the question of whether she’ll even get into college. Their stories are framed in the context of the support provided by an invested school counsellor and their teammates who are all working together to win the upcoming competition. It’s easy to see how empowering step is for these girls and to experience the joy of their successes alongside them since viewers will simply want to see them do well.

Special features include: commentary by director Amanda Lipitz; deleted scenes; “Step is Life”; “The Lethal Ladies of BLSYW”; “Inside the Rehearsal Room”; Lethal Ladies music video; and gallery. (Fox Home Entertainment)

Spongebob Squarepants: The Complete Ninth Season (DVD)

Dive into more than 20 tales and three double-length episodes, including the latest food craze to sweep Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob’s search for a new job, and a mysterious goo bubble battle. Plus, soak up five bonus Krabby Patty shorts.

Even after nine seasons, the adventures of the young sponge and his friends are still fresh and amusing. Spongebob’s drive to be the best burger-maker in Bikini Bottom includes being seduced by a state-of-the-art spatula. Meanwhile, Mr. Krabs is predictably persuaded to cheapen his Krabby Patty recipe with filler in order to be a nationwide success represented by Patrick. Other episodes include Sandy Squirrel’s attempts to break the record for various feats; Squidward’s desire to learn karate; and Gary’s late teething phase that threatens to destroy Spongebob’s house.

There are no special features. (Paramount Home Media Distribution)

Summer of Fear (Blu-ray)

Plucky, teenaged Rachel’s (Linda Blair) life is turned dangerously upside down when her cousin Julie (Lee Purcell) moves in following the death of her parents in a car crash. Julie enchants everyone in the family and appears to be a loving relative, but Rachel knows her cousin is up to something creepy…something like witchcraft.

Sometimes the idea of a new sibling or live-in relative to share and spend time with sounds appealing — until they arrive and you realize they’re an evil witch taking over your life and family. Of course, it’s easier for your family to believe you’re paranoid or insane than in the existence of magic and the supernatural. Safe for the whole family, this TV movie directed by Wes Craven still showcases his penchant for thrilling audiences but with less gore and not as scary monsters. Watching everything unfold from Rachel’s perspective, viewers are inevitably on her side as they see what the other characters can’t about their new guest. That’s not to say she still doesn’t make some foolish mistakes in dealing with the problem, but the conclusion will satisfy those seeking a positive ending as well as those who prefer something a little more malign.

Special features include: commentary by director Wes Craven; interview with Linda Blair; poster and still gallery; and original trailer. (Doppelganger Releasing)

Three O’Clock High [Collector’s Edition] (Blu-ray)

The new kid, Buddy Revell (Richard Tyson), is rumored to have a violent history and Jerry Mitchell (Casey Siemaszko) has been tasked with getting to the bottom of it for the school paper. Desperate to get out of writing the story, Jerry accidentally angers Buddy and earns himself a date with Buddy’s fists later that day.

Some version of this story has played out in almost every TV sitcom with several employing the same strategies as Jerry in an attempt to avoid a severe beating; many of these tactics similarly backfire as well. Jerry’s best friend and younger sister also do their best to help him out of his predicament, though they generally only make things worse. Buddy seems to have significant issues with being touched, but that appears to be his only motivation for wanting to destroy Jerry. The adults in the film contribute to the comedy of the situation as Jeffrey Tambor, Mitch Pileggi and Philip Baker Hall come in at various intervals to demonstrate they can’t help either. The conclusion is unexpected, but very rewarding — its composition among other amusing aspects of the production are discussed in the bonus features by the director.

Special features include: commentary by director Phil Joanou; “Head of the Class,” interview with Joanou; “Passing the Test,” interviews with screenwriters Richard Christian Matheson and Tom Szollosi; “School Clothes,” interview with costume designer Jane Ruhm; still gallery; and theatrical trailer (Shout Select)

Wish Upon (Blu-ray & DVD)

After her father (Ryan Phillippe) presents her with a mysterious music box, Clare Shannon (Joey King) is surprised to find her every wish coming true. Her joy slowly morphs into terror as she begins to realize the bloody price of each new wish.

Numerous narratives on screen and paper have warned audiences of the dangers of making magical wishes with the general consensus being nothing is given for free. Nonetheless, Clare continues to take the easy road to a better life even after realizing the fatal consequences of fulfilling her desires. The deaths are reminiscent of those in Final Destination as an unseen force orchestrates the “accidental” death of someone Clare knows; although it doesn’t always take the most obvious path, stretching some scenes out longer than they’d be expected to last. King is excellent as a young woman divided and eventually addicted to the ancient box’s power, which is reassuring since most of the film rests on her shoulders.

Special features include: “I Wish: The Cast Share What They Would Wish”; “Attic Tour with Joey King”; “Directing Darkness”; and two motion comics. (D Films)