Thursday, August 26, 2010

Humf Volume 1

Humf Volume 1 [DVD] [2009]

Humf Volume 1 [DVD] [2009]
From E1 Entertainment

Price: £7.49 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
Humf is short and round, cute and cuddly and at just three years of age is full to the brim with wonder and amusement at the world around him. Humf is very caring but also, he is strong minded although it is clear he has a lot to learn. He takes advice from his Mum and Dad and listens intently to his best friends, Loon and Wallace. Taking on board all his friends and family’s helpful advice, Humf still has to make big decisions to so many questions for himself.

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Cars [DVD]

Cars [DVD] [2006]

Cars [DVD] [2006]
Directed by John Lasseter

Price: £5.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Reviews
There's an extra coat of hot wax on Pixar's vibrant, NASCAR-influenced comedy about a world populated entirely by cars. Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) is the slick rookie taking the Piston Cup series by storm when the last race of the season (the film's high-octane opening) ends in a three-way tie. On the way to the tie-breaker race in California, Lightning loses his way off Route 66 in the Southwest desert and is taught to stop and smell the roses by the forgotten citizens of Radiator Springs. It's odd to have such a slim story from the whizzes of Pixar, and the film pales a bit from their other films (though can that be a fair comparison?).

Nonetheless, Cars is another gleaming ride with Pixar founder John Lasseter, who's directing for the first time since Toy Story 2. There's the usual spectrum of excellent characters teamed with appropriate voice talent, loads of smooth humor for kids and parents alike, knockout visuals, and a colorful array of sidekicks, including a scene-stealing baby blue forklift named Guido. Lightning's plight is changed with the help of former big-city lawyer Sally Carrera (Pixar veteran Bonnie Hunt), the town's patriarch Doc Hudson (Paul Newman), and kooky tow truck Mater (Larry the Cable Guy). The Incredibles was the first Pixar film to break the 100-minute barrier, but had enough story not to suffer; Cars, at 116 minutes (including some must-see end credit footage), is not as fortunate, plus it never pierces the heart. Trivia fans should have bonanza with the frame-by-frame DVD function; the movie is stuffed with in-jokes, some appearing only for an instant. Ages 5 and up. --Doug Thomas

DVD Description
Pixar's latest movie features the talents of Owen Wilson and Steve McQueen, set in the world of car racing.

Lightning McQueen is a cocky, rookie race car. Speeding on his way to a big race, he crashes into Radiator Springs, destroying lots of the inhabitants belongings. In order to make up for what he did, the cocky roadster is sentenced to community service. Though he will do anything to get away from the work, McQueen must learn to respect and bond with the Radiator Springs inhabitants in order to get out of the town and back on the racetracks.

Synopsis
Talking cars rediscover the quirky originality of middle America in this inventive animated film from the folks at Pixar (TOY STORY, FINDING NEMO). Owen Wilson does the voice of arrogant rookie racecar Lightning McQueen, who winds up stranded in the small desert town of Radiator Springs on his way west to a big showdown. Sentenced to community service after literally tearing up the road in a high-speed chase, at first all Lightning can think of is getting back to the world of corporate sponsorship and merchandising tie-ins he loves so well. Eventually, however, the eccentric residents of Radiator Springs begin to grow on him, especially the attractive lady Porsche lawyer (Bonnie Hunt) and a rusty old tow-truck (Larry the Cable Guy). There's also a hippie Volkswagen (George Carlin), a low-riding T-bird (Cheech Martin) and Paul Newman as the gruff, curmudgeonly Doc Hudson, the town judge who harbors his own checkered-flag past. The story may not be new, but Pixar's precision-engineered animation brilliantly illuminates the town and its surrounding cactus-studded vistas down to the minutest detail, and director/writer John Lasseter keeps the film's satiric wit and generous heart in perfect alignment. Adults in the audience should appreciate the film's celebration of old-school American eccentricity, and the kids will dig all the thunderous grit and high-octane wheel burning.

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Choosing Educational Videos for Children

Today, videos have become a very popular means of entertainment among children of all ages. It isn't uncommon for children to spend much of their free time watching their favorite movies or television shows. The invention of the portable DVD player has enhanced the already great role video entertainment can play in a child's day, as it allows parents to take DVD videos wherever children go. This however, creates considerable concern about what today's youngsters are watching. Some DVD and television entertainment is valuable to a child's education, as well as entertaining. Others are not. For this reason, parents should choose their children's videos with great care.

The first factor in choosing the right educational videos for children is to choose educational movies and shows that will match their interests. If you fail to keep a child's interests in mind, the child will be less likely to watch the videos you choose, and may easily become bored and restless. However, if your child is interested in the chosen topic, he or she is much more likely to absorb the contents and remember them later. This way, educational videos will have a more positive and lasting effect on your child.

By choosing the right kinds of videos, you will be able to prevent your children from watching programs you, as the parent, deem undesirable or inappropriate. If you choose videos for your children, you will be able to better monitor the content and quality of each video. You will also be more in touch with what your child is learning, and by familiarizing yourself with the content, be able to discuss the videos with your children. This will also let them know that you are taking an interest in what they are watching and learning.

There are many different titles out there from which to choose, and you want to be sure that the ones you purchase are videos that your children will want to watch. You don't want to invest in educational videos, just to have them sit on the shelf. Before choosing titles, start by getting feedback from your children. Show them the videos you are considering, and find out which videos and topics spark their interest.

When choosing educational videos for your children, it's also important to keep their ages in mind. Purchasing highly educational videos for older children, for example, is often not the best use of time or money. Often, it will result in a lack of attention, leading to a library of videos that your children never watch.

Lastly, watch any videos that you purchase with your children. These videos are meant to be a learning tool, designed to help children have fun while they learn. Videos are not, however, designed to be babysitters. The more interest you take in the lives of your children, the more you will be able to monitor what they watch, and improve their education.

Master Mind Toys, fun and educational children's toys. Bob the Builder, Dora The Explorer, Lego, Thomas The Tank Engine, Trading Spaces, Baby Einstein, Childrens Toys, Playmobil, Robosapien, Radio Flyer. http://www.mastermindtoys.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Nutt

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Alice in Wonderland 2010 DVD - A Quick and Honest Review

As far as Children's DVDs go, this is a fantastic children's movie where 19 year old Alice returns into the wonderland after convincing herself that her original visit at the age of 6, was only a dream. There has been varying critiques on this film, some say it's awful and nothing much like the first (keep in mind it wasn't meant to be) and some say it is an excellent addition to the most loved Lewis Carroll publications.

We believe this movie is a good mixture of the two popular publications, "Alice in Wonderland" and "Alice through the Looking Glass". We enjoyed the majority of the motion picture, although for adults, it may be a little bit of a let-down when compared with the publications. Having said that, as far as Children's DVDs go, Alice in Wonderland 2010 is certainly one to see and we think of it to be one of the better Tim Burton films ever made.

A word of warning though; this movie is a lot darker than others that you could have experienced - including the Disney version. It is probably not a great motion picture for younger kids. A few of the fight scenes are perhaps not ideal for everyone - though the PG certification suggests this.

Young children over the age of seven or eight shouldn't have any issues viewing this motion picture with their dad and mom though. It's not scary - it's just a bit on the dark side. Mr Depp is brilliant with this role and we must admit, we did think (on first impressions) he would be playing a similar character as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory but actually, he plays a much more complete character who occasionally is very amusing. As grown ups, we did have a good laugh aloud several times throughout the motion picture which is unusual for Children's DVDs these days.

Mia Wasikowska, who plays Alice, is a great young actress and plays the role extremely well. Helena Bonham Carter is cast as the wicked Queen of Hearts from the original Alice in Wonderland tale. However, we felt her overall performance was more reminiscent of Queenie from Blackadder. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this character, you may find the tone of her voice and gestures slightly annoying nevertheless for us it was very humorous - although to be honest, a blatant rip-off.

The CGI figures are good, particularly the Cheshire Cat (Stephen Fry) and Absalom (Alan Rickman). Yet, with regards to splendor, the scenery in which Alice spends lots of her time, is not competitive with, say, from the Walt Disney motion picture. The Jabberwocky is a remarkable evil dragon-like beast who eventually shows up at the conclusion of the movie and in terms of computer effects, it is good - not amazing.

We felt a lot of the tension and adventure was greatly comparable to a Harry Potter motion picture rather than the traditional tale of Alice in Wonderland the Disney edition. Nevertheless, like most things, Children's DVDs are transforming so we predicted a difference from the original, popular, Alice in Wonderland Disney movie.

In conclusion, we would recommend this for kids over the age of about seven and we would recommend the PG certificate is abided by. It's a great motion picture but if you've seen the original Disney motion picture, or read the Lewis Carroll publications, then do not get your hopes up! Children's DVDs are changing so we feel that this is a good reflection of what kids anticipate from a motion picture these days.

Expert Ellie G Marsden talks about getting the best Children's DVDs available. Children's DVDs are easy to get online, but childrens DVDs are something that require knowledge before you purchase, so learn a bit before buying.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ellie_G_Marsden

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Thursday, August 19, 2010

Monsters Inc.

Monsters Inc. [2002] [DVD]

Monsters Inc. [2002] [DVD]
Directed by David Silverman, Lee Unkrich, Pete Docter

Price: £6.00 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
The monsters in Monsters, Inc. are just so incredibly cute--and they know it. Whereas Woody, Buzz and pals in the Toy Story saga were filled with self-doubt about just how much the children in their lives would continue to love them, here our heroic monsters and their impossibly lovable human ward Boo have no such worries, at least when it comes to the cinema audience. And that's why Monsters, Inc., for all its wondrous computer-animated artistry, its smart humour and its family-friendly appeal, doesn't quite capture the naïve charm of its predecessors.

Nevertheless, John Goodman and Billy Crystal, as scare-champions Sulley and Mike, are a great double-act whose comedy never goes over kids' heads but still reaches up to make their parents laugh. The film's central conceit--that monsters in the bedroom closet are just doing a night's work in order to generate power from screams for the city of Monstropolis--is funny and cleverly worked out; and kids will of course love the fact that the monsters are mortally afraid of the very children they are trying to frighten.

The animation is extraordinarily detailed (Sulley's fur is a marvel in itself) and the set-piece action sequences top anything that has gone before for sheer audaciousness. But overall Pixar play things very safe, from the hissable villain to the end credit "outtakes". A bolder film might have taken inspiration from The Nightmare Before Christmas; instead, a little of that Disney disease of knowing cuteness seems to have crept into the formula. --Mark Walker

DVD Description
DVD Special Features:
All-new animated short film, Mike's New Car (exclusive to video and DVD).
For The Birds - 2001 Academy Award-Winner for Best Animated Short Film.
Finding Nemo - an exclusive sneak peek of Disney/Pixar's next feature film release.
Hilarious outtakes and Company Play.
Never-before-seen deleted scenes.
Disney Storytime.
Peek-A-Boo: Boo's Door Game.

Aspect ratio: Fullscreen (4:3)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1; Dolby Stereo

Synopsis
Intelligent, funny, adorable, and beautifully animated, MONSTERS, INC. will delight fans of SHREK and TOY STORY, while drawing a new audience of curious, kid-friendly viewers. Billy Crystal and John Goodman make a fiercely funny comedic team as job partners and best friends, Mike (Crystal)--a little green guy with one huge eyeball, and Sulley (Goodman)--a big purple and blue fuzzy guy with dinosaur spikes down his back. Mike and Sully work at MONSTERS, INC., a gigantic corporation that captures the screams of little children and turns them into energy. To make the children scream, the monsters must enter each child's bedroom through the closet door, then deliver a frightening affront. The only problem is, kids aren't scared anymore. And because of this problem, Monsters, Inc. is in a jam. But when one little girl, Boo (Mary Gibbs), follows Sully through her closet door and into the factory, she brings an even more dire issue to the fore: the monsters are actually terrified of children. From Pixar Animation Studios, MONSTERS, INC. is an exciting adventure with a sweet, happy ending.

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Avatar - The Legend Of Aang - Book 2 - Complete

Avatar - The Legend Of Aang - Book 2 - Complete [DVD]

Avatar - The Legend Of Aang - Book 2 - Complete [DVD]
From Paramount Home Entertainment

Price: £10.93 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
Japanese anime gets an American makeover in the original Nickelodeon series AVATAR - THE LEGEND OF AANG (aka AVATAR – THE LAST AIRBENDER). On a futuristic Earth torn between the warring elements of Air, Earth, Water, and Fire, only one special being known as the Avatar can bring peace to the conflicted planet. The trouble is, the Avatar is an immature 12-year-old boy called Aang, who would rather wander the world having fun-filled adventures than settle down and face his heroic destiny. AVATAR ably blends kids-oriented comedy with martial-arts action-adventure worthy of its Japanese counterparts. This collection presents the second series in its entirety.

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Matilda - Special Edition

Matilda - Special Edition [DVD] [1996]

Matilda - Special Edition [DVD] [1996]
Directed by Danny DeVito

Price: £2.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
Danny DeVito's adaptation of the Roald Dahl book for children is mostly just fine, helped along quite a bit by the charming performance of Mara Wilson (Mrs Doubtfire) as the eponymous young Matilda, a brilliant girl neglected by her stupid, self-involved parents (DeVito and Rhea Perlman). Ignored at home, Matilda escapes into a world of reading, exercising her mind so much she develops telekinetic powers. Good thing, too: sent off to a school headed by a cruel principal, Matilda needs all the help she can get. DeVito takes a highly stylized approach that is sometimes reminiscent of Barry Sonnenfeld (director of Get Shorty, a DeVito production), and his judgement is not the best in some matters, such as letting the comic-scary sequences involving the principal go on too long. But much of the film is delightful and funny.--Tom Keogh

DVD Description
The hilarious story of Matilda based on the book by Roald Dahl. Once upon a time, there lived a quite extraordinary little girl named Matilda, but unfortunately her parents were so obsessed with their own lives they never noticed Matilda. They send her to Crunchem Hall, a horrible boarding school run by a bossy headmistress Miss Trunchbull. There, Matilda discovers remarkable skills, which allow her to turn the tables on the wicked grown-ups in her world.

Special Features

* My Movie about Making Matilda by Mara Wilson
* A Children's Guide to Good Manners
* Escape to the Library
* Matilda's Movie Magic
* A Truly Terrible Test
* Maths Game
* The Spelling Bee
* Get Rid of Mrs Trunchbull - trivia game
* Make Magic with Matilda
* Matilda the Movie Character Gallery
* Terrify the Trunchbull - interactive fun
* Matilda the Movie read along

DVD Technical Information:

* Running Time: 94 minutes
* Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround (English)
* Subtitles: Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Icelandic, Norwegian, Polish, Portugese, Russian, Swedish
* Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic - 2.35:1
* Disc Type: DVD-9
* Region Code: 2

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Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs [DVD] [2009]

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs [DVD] [2009]
Directed by Phil Lord, Chris Miller

Price: £3.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
Judi and Ron Barrett's Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs is a much-loved, whimsical book about a tiny island where food falls from the sky like rain. The book serves as a jumping-off point for Sony's animated, digital 3-D Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs which is not so much a retelling of the book as an exploration of what makes food rain from the sky on a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Flint (Bill Hader), a clever young inventor with a reputation for creations gone awry, has recently completed a machine that he claims will turn water into food. Like his past failed inventions, Flint's new food-converting machine doesn't work as planned, and on its initial test run it ends up getting launched into the sky where clouds form and begin to rain cheeseburgers. The falling burgers destroy the Swallow Falls community's latest attempt to bolster its failing, sardine-dependent economy, but the Mayor's (Bruce Campbell) initial fury quickly turns to greedy anticipation as he begins to realize that food falling from the sky could serve as an innovative tourist draw. As the entire town is caught up re-defining itself as "Chew and Swallow," only Flint's father (James Caan) remains skeptical of his son's invention. Greed leads to some very strange weather events like spaghetti twisters and extra-giant food which, while providing a huge career opportunity for brainy weather intern Sam Sparks (Anna Faris) who's masquerading as an air-headed television personality, also threaten to destroy the town and its inhabitants. In the end, only the collaborative efforts of Flint, his father, and Sam can save the town of Chew and Swallow from certain destruction by the out of control invention. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs is a funny, imaginative film that's well-animated and immensely entertaining for kids and adults. Rated PG for brief mild language, but appropriate for most ages 5 and older. --Tami Horiuchi
Special Features

* Directors' Commentary with Bill Hader
* A Recipe for Success: The Making of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
* Key Ingredients: The Voices of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
* Progression Reels with Introductions by Visual Effects Supervisor Rob Bredow
* Behind the Scenes of Miranda Cosgrove's Raining Sunshine Music Video
* Raining Sunshine Music Video by iCarly's Miranda Cosgrove
* Flint's Food Fight Game
* Interactive Raining Sunshine Sing-A-Long
* Extended Scenes
* Early Development Scenes
* English Audio Descriptive Track

Synopsis
Inspired by Ron and Judi Barrett's beloved children's book of the same name, CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS follows inventor Flint Lockwood (voice of Bill Hader) and a brainy weathergirl (voice of Anna Faris) as they attempt to discover why the rain in their small town has stopped, and food is falling in its place. Meanwhile, lifelong bully Brent (voice of Andy Samberg) relishes in tormenting Flint like he did when they were kids, and Mayor Shelbourne (voice of Bruce Campbell) schemes to use Flint's latest invention -- a device designed to improve everyone's lives -- for his own personal gain. Mr. T voices by-the-books cop Earl Devereaux, and James Caan voices Flint's technophobe father, Tim.

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Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Complete Book 3

Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Complete Book 3 Fire DVD Collection

Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Complete Book 3 Fire DVD Collection
Directed by Ethan Spaulding, Giancarlo Volpe, Joaquim Dos Santos

Price: £10.93 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
Japanese anime gets an American makeover in the original Nickelodeon series AVATAR - THE LEGEND OF AANG (aka AVATAR – THE LAST AIRBENDER). On a futuristic Earth torn between the warring elements of Air, Earth, Water, and Fire, only one special being known as the Avatar can bring peace to the conflicted planet. The trouble is, the Avatar is an immature 12-year-old boy called Aang, who would rather wander the world having fun-filled adventures than settle down and face his heroic destiny. AVATAR ably blends kids-oriented comedy with martial-arts action-adventure worthy of its Japanese counterparts. This collection presents the third series in its entirety.

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Sunday, August 15, 2010

X-Men - Seasons 1 and 2 Boxset

X-Men - Seasons 1 & 2 Boxset [DVD]

X-Men - Seasons 1 & 2 Boxset [DVD]
From Clear Vision Ltd

Price: £27.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
In the not-too-distant future, mankind has morphed. Civilization is made up of both humans and a new breed of mutants. Endowed with super hero qualities, these mutants can, for example, turn their fingers into claws, shoot laser beams from their eyes, and move objects with their minds. Considered a dangerous threat to society, these life forms are persecuted by an army of government-controlled robots charged with destroying them. At the same time, some mutants form their own terrorist group called The Brotherhood that aims to exterminate humankind. A mastermind known as Charles Xavier forms an elite group of mutants known as X-Men to use their unique powers to fight evil for the purpose of universal peace. This animated series brings to life the adventures of the characters created by Marvel's supremo Stan Lee. Features all the episodes from the first two series of the show.

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X-Men - Season 1, Volume 2

X-Men - Season 1, Volume 2 [DVD]

X-Men - Season 1, Volume 2 [DVD]
From Clear Vision Ltd

Price: £8.00 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
In the not-too-distant future, mankind has morphed. Civilization is made up of both humans and a new breed of mutants. Endowed with super hero qualities, these mutants can, for example, turn their fingers into claws, shoot laser beams from their eyes, and move objects with their minds. Considered a dangerous threat to society, these life forms are persecuted by an army of government-controlled robots charged with destroying them. At the same time, some mutants form their own terrorist group called The Brotherhood that aims to exterminate humankind. A mastermind known as Charles Xavier forms an elite group of mutants known as X-Men to use their unique powers to fight evil for the purpose of universal peace. This animated series brings to life the adventures of the characters created by Marvel’s supremo Stan Lee. Features a selection of episodes from the first season of the show.

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Care Bears Movie II - A New Generation

Care Bears Movie II - A New Generation [DVD] [1986]

Care Bears Movie II - A New Generation [DVD] [1986]
From Uca

Price: £3.93 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
Featuring the sequel to the Care Bears. A little girl is tricked into trapping the bears but later has a change of heart.

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Hannah Montana - Season 2 Vol.4

Hannah Montana - Season 2 Vol.4 [DVD] [2007]

Hannah Montana - Season 2 Vol.4 [DVD] [2007]
From Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainm

Price: £3.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
Some DVDs in the world are completely review-proof, and season two of Hannah Montana more than fits that criteria. With a hit movie, a cinematically released concert and now a sell-out tour to her name, Miley Cyrus stars in the title role. And it’s a dual part she has to play. By day, she’s country girl Miley Stewart, the everyday girl next door. By night? That’s when she transforms into the singing sensation Hannah Montana.

It’s a simple idea behind Hannah Montana, and its success owes much to the charm and enthusiasm with which the clearly-talented Miley Cyrus tackles the role. She handles both sides of it well, and can, to her credit, also belt out a tune with some style. She does plenty of that too across the second season of Hannah Montana, as well as dealing with the challenge of putting across a character who has inevitably struggles with her dual life.

It’s certainly glossy, polished entertainment, but that doesn’t mean that Hannah Montana doesn’t hit the mark. There’s genuine talent fuelling the success of the show, and while it’s inevitably the kind of programme that parents of young daughters may dread--especially if they’ve had to listen to the accompanying music on loop too!--the truth is that this is infectious entertainment, and hard not to enjoy. And given the continuing global success of Hannah Montana, there’s a lot more of it to come, too! --Jon Foster

Synopsis
Disney Channel fans will already know Miley Stewart's (Miley Cyrus) fabulous secret: by day, she's just the girl next door, but after dark, she’s Hannah Montana, the famous pop star. This collection includes the forth and final volume of episodes from the wildly popular third series. Follow Miley as she tries to balance her jet-set music career with the stuff of daily life, in the episodes 'The Way We Almost Weren't', 'You Didn't Say It's Your Birthday', 'Hannah in the Streets with Diamonds', 'Yet Another Side of Me', 'The Test of My Love', 'Joannie B. Goode', and 'We're All on This Date Together'.

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New Spider-Man 1995

New Spider-Man 1995 - Season 3, Volumes 1 & 2 [DVD]

New Spider-Man 1995 - Season 3, Volumes 1 & 2 [DVD]
From Clear Vision Ltd

Price: £12.93 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Synopsis
The animated adventures of comics superhero Spider-man. Features the complete second series.

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Monsters vs Aliens

Monsters vs Aliens (with free 3D glasses) [Blu-ray] [2009]

Monsters vs Aliens (with free 3D glasses) [Blu-ray] [2009]
Directed by Conrad Vernon, Robert Letterman

Price: £16.91 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
With eye popping visuals and launching the kind of brightly coloured carnage onto the screen that computer animation excels at, Monsters vs Aliens is a film that knows its intended audience well, and targets them precisely. On one side of the fence is a motley crew of heroes, led by the near 50-feet tall Ginormica. She’s joined by B.O.B. the blob, Dr Cockroach and the frankly bizarre The Missing Link. Between them, they have to fight off the threat of the dastardly Gallaxhar, in a fairly standard at heart good versus evil adventure.

And yet Monsters vs Aliens throws plenty into the pot to make things more interesting. Firstly, it’s odd cast of characters are generally the last thing you’d expect from cute and cuddly kids’ movies, but they’re a hard bunch not to like. Then there’s some terrific voice talent at work, and the overall quality of the animation is simply superb as well.

What’s nice too about Monsters vs Aliens are the tips of the hat to the older viewers. It’s not always the most subtle script for working on two levels, but the assorted nods to science fiction classics are warmly appreciated. They certainly help paper over a few of the cracks when the film’s blinding visuals relax and leave you realising what a straightforward tale is hiding underneath. But then the film tries so hard to keep you entertained that it’s hard not to cut it some slack.

For much of the running time of Monsters vs Aliens though you simply won’t have to. That’s because it’s solid, funny and pacey entertainment, that easily whiles away an hour and a half. There’s plenty of re-watch value here too, in a film that proves to be quality family entertainment. It’s no Shrek, but it’s still a fine piece of work. --Jon Foster

Special Features
The Monsters vs Aliens Blu-ray will be presented in 1080p high definition. The disc includes the following ginormous extras:

* B.O.B.’S BIG BREAK in Monster 3D & 2D
* Filmmaker Commentary
* Exclusive Blu-ray Extras:
> Animators’ Corner - Picture-In-Picture
> Trivia Track
* Modern Monster Movie Making
* The Tech of Monsters vs Aliens
* Three Never Before Seen Deleted Scenes:
> Monger’s Plan
> War Room Turns on Monsters
> If You Don’t Know
* DWA Music Video Juke Box
* Karaoke Music Party with:
> “More Than A Woman” with B.O.B.
> “Born To Be Wild” with Dr. Cockroach Ph.D. & The Missing Link
> “I Will Survive” with Ginormica
* Paddle Ball Game in Monster 3D
* Top Secret Sneak Peek Files:
> How To Train Your Dragon (HD)
> The Penguins of Madagascar (HD)
> Shrek The Halls (HD)
> Secrets of the Furious Five
> Monsters vs Aliens Activision Game trailer

Synopsis
Susan Murphy's (voiced by Reese Witherspoon) wedding day is rudely interrupted when from out of nowhere, she's hit by a falling meteor! Amazingly, she survives the collision and proceeds to walk down the aisle looking every inch the glowing bride... glowing green, that is. Things only get stranger once inside the church, as Susan suddenly grows to a colossal 49 feet 11 inches tall. Because of her new stature, she's branded a 'monster' and carted off to a secret government facility for genetic anomalies. There, she meets fellow outcasts; a brilliant cockroach with a PhD, a bizarre ape-fish hybrid, a gelatinous and indestructible blob, and a 350 foot grub. When an alien robot with an appetite for destruction lands on Earth, a desperate President calls for the monsters to be released in the hope that they will defend the very people who imprisoned them. Of course, the monsters oblige as they are basically good, despite their outward appearance. In their clumsy effort to save mankind from the alien threat, they prove that they each have something valuable to offer and that together they can really make a difference.
DreamWorks Animation and directors Conrad Vernon (SHREK 2) and Rob Letterman (SHARK TALE) have created a fun adventure packed full of B-movie references, eye-popping 3D visuals, and quirky-looking monsters kicking alien butt.

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The Muppet Show

The Muppet Show - Season 3 [DVD] [1978]

The Muppet Show - Season 3 [DVD] [1978]
From Disney

Price: £15.93 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews


Amazon.co.uk Review
An iconic variety show that ran from 1976 to 1981, The Muppet Show was a masterpiece of puppetry and slapstick humour, as well as a showcase for the best musical and comic talent of its day. Season Three ran 1978-1979 and featured 26 famous guest stars, including Roy Clark, Pearl Bailey, Jean Stapleton, Harry Belefonte, Danny Kaye, Cheryl Ladd, Raquel Welch, Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, and Sylvester Stallone. Some of the most unique episodes of this series include: the Lynn Redgrave show, in which she and all the Muppets used the entire show to re-enact the story of Robin Hood; the Loretta Lynn episode, which was ostensibly filmed at the railroad station when the theatre was being fumigated; and the visual effects-laden Alice Cooper episode. Other notable moments include Liberace's performances of everything from a Chopin Nocturne to a Boogie Woogie piece, Gilda Radner's amusing musical rendition from Gilbert and Sullivan's operetta "Carrots of Penzance" (or was that "Parrots of Penzance," or "Pirates of Penzance?"), and Danny Kaye's appearance as the Swedish Chef's uncle. Naturally, the series features all your favorite Muppet characters like Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fozzie Bear, Scooter, Rowlf, Crazy Harry, Beaker, and Animal as well as the beloved skits Muppet Labs, Pigs in Space, Swedish Chef, Veterinarian's Hospital, and Muppet Newsflash. Truly timeless entertainment for all ages, this third season of The Muppet Show is just as adept at bringing back memories as it is making new ones. --Tami Horiuchi

Synopsis
The Muppet Show remains one of TV's most enjoyable shows for the whole family. With wacky humour appealing to kids and parents alike, this variety series featured all the favorites in Jim Henson's gang: Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, Rowlf, Fozzie, Rizzo, Gonzo, and more. Beaker meeps, the Pigs in Space try to save the universe, and Kermit just tries to keep the show from falling apart. With musical numbers, sketches, backstage insight, and less-than-helpful cooking tips from the Swedish Chef, life at The Muppet Show is never boring. In the third series, the beloved Muppets are joined by celebrity guests including Sylvester Stallone, Liberace, Alice Cooper, Raquel Welch, and Gilda Radner. A true TV classic, this collection presents all 24 wacky episodes of the third series.


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Friday, August 13, 2010

Open Season/Open Season 2

Open Season/Open Season 2 [DVD] [2008]

Open Season/Open Season 2 [DVD] [2008]
From Sony Pictures Home Entertainment

Price: £5.00 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Synopsis
This collection contains both the episodes from the OPEN SEASON franchise, an animated series centring on the adventures of two quite unusual forest heroes, Elliott the bear and Boog the deer.


Boog (Martin Lawrence) is a gentle and domesticated bear; Elliot (Ashton Kutcher) is an absentminded and accident-prone deer who has been shunned by his herd. Boog longs to return to the cushy conditions he had with Beth (Debra Messing), an animal-loving park ranger who rescued him and raised him as a pet from the time he was a cub. Desperate to please his new friend, who spared him from an overzealous hunter (Gary Sinise), Elliot tries to help lead Boog back to the mountainside town, but instead they are met with hostility by their fellow forest creatures, including a combative squirrel, McSquizzy (Billy Connelly); a perfectionist beaver, Reilly (Jon Favreau); and a machismo-fuelled deer, Ian (Patrick Warburton), who is Elliot's nemesis. Now, with hunting season upon them, they must all align to defend themselves against the hunters that annually plague their domain.


Following on from the fun-filled original, OPEN SEASON 2 continues the adventures of kind and caring bear Boog and his messy deer companion, Elliot, who, together, they struggle to adapt to the way of life in the wild. In this, their second adventure, Elliot falls in love with Gisele and intends to marry her. Unfortunately life isn't that easy in the woods and some complications ensue, as Elliot's new friend--the dog, Mr Weenie--is abducted by a troop of spoilt domestic pets on a mission to bring him back to his old owner…

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Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince

Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince [DVD] [2009]

Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince [DVD] [2009]
Directed by David Yates

Price: £5.53 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
The sixth installment of the Harry Potter series begins right where The Order of the Phoenix left off. The wizarding world is rocked by the news that "He Who Must Not Be Named" has truly returned, and the audience finally knows that Harry is "the Chosen One"--the only wizard who can defeat Lord Voldemort in the end. Dark forces loom around every corner, and now regularly attempt to penetrate the protected walls of Hogwarts School. This is no longer the fun and fascinating world of magic from the first few books—it's dark, dangerous, and scary.

Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) suspects Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) to be a new Death Eater recruit on a special mission for the Dark Lord. In the meantime, Professor Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) seems to have finally removed the shroud of secrecy from Harry about the dark path that lies ahead, and instead provides private lessons to get him prepared. It's in these intriguing scenes that the dark past of Tom Riddle (a.k.a. Voldemort) is finally revealed. The actors cast as the different young versions of Riddle (Hero Fiennes-Tiffin and Frank Dillane) do an eerily fantastic job of portraying the villain as a child. While the previous movies' many new characters could be slightly overwhelming, only one new key character is introduced this time: Professor Horace Slughorn (with a spot-on performance by Jim Broadbent). Within his mind he holds a key secret in the battle to defeat the Dark Lord, and Harry is tasked by Dumbledore to uncover a memory about Voldemort's darkest weapon--the Horcrux. Despite the long list of distractions, Harry, Ron (Rupert Grint), and Hermione (Emma Watson) still try to focus on being teenagers, and audiences will enjoy the budding awkward romances. All of the actors have developed nicely, giving their most convincing performances to date.

More dramatic and significant things go down in this movie than any of its predecessors, and the stakes are higher than ever. The creators have been tasked with a practically impossible challenge, as fans of the beloved J.K. Rowling book series desperately want the movies to capture the magic of the books as closely as possible. Alas, the point at which one accepts that these two mediums are very different is the point at which one can truly enjoy these brilliant adaptations. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is no exception: it may be the best film yet. For those who have not read the book, nail-biting entertainment is guaranteed. For those who have, the movie does it justice. The key dramatic scenes, including the cave and the shocking twist in the final chapter, are executed very well. It does a perfect job of setting up the two-part grand finale that is to follow. --Jordan Thompson

DVD Description
Own one of this year's coolest Christmas gifts: Harry Potter and the Half Blood-Prince Limited Death Mask Edition, offered exclusively through Amazon.co.uk. While you cannot wear the mask, it definitely will be a fine collector's item to show off on your DVD shelf.

Adolescent wizard-in-training Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts for another year of schooling and learns more about the dark past of the boy who grew up to become Lord Voldemort in this, the sixth installment of the film series that originated from the writings of author J.K. Rowling. There was a time when Hogwarts was thought of as a safe haven, but thanks to Voldemort's tightening grip on both the Muggle and wizarding worlds, that simply isn't the case anymore. Suspecting that the castle may even harbour an outright threat, Harry finds his investigation into the matter sidelined by Dumbledore's attempts to prepare him for the monumental battle looming ever closer on the horizon. In order to discover the key to Voldemort's defences, Dumbledore enlists the aid of resourceful yet unsuspecting bon vivant Professor Horace Slughorn, who may have a clue as to their enemy's Achilles' heel. Meanwhile, teenage hormones cause the students at Hogwarts to lose focus on their true mission. As Harry and Dean Thomas clash for the affections of the lovely Ginny, Romilda Vane attempts to woo Ron away from Lavender Brown with some particularly tasty chocolates. Even Hermione isn't immune from the love bug, though she tries her hardest to suppress her growing jealousy and keep her emotions bottled up. But there is one student who remains completely aloof from the romance blossoming all around, and he intends to leave a dark impression on his classmates. With tragedy looming ever closer, it begins to appear as if peace will prove elusive in Hogwarts for some time to come.

Special Features:
Disc 1: Feature film

Disc 2:
Behind the Story: Close Up with the Cast of Harry Potter: Hosts Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom) and Alfie Enoch (Dean Thomas) lead us on an entertaining look at the cast of Harry Potter as they explore their interests away from acting and spend a day on set with the production team:
• Editing with Daniel Radcliffe: Daniel and editor Mark Day have a lighthearted conversation about film editing and how to get the right shot for a scene.
• Special Effects with Matthew Lewis, Oliver Phelps and Tom Felton: The guys get a "science lesson" from Special Effects Supervisor John Richardson and technician Matthew Harlow.
• Owl Training with Jessie Cave: Jessie heads outside for training tips with “hootie” and owl trainer Guillaume Grange.
• Stunt Training with Rupert Grint: Rupert shows off his thrill for danger with the stunt department.
• Costume Designs with Evanna Lynch: Evanna shares her jewelry designs with Costume Designer Jany Temime.
• Art with Bonnie Wright: Bonnie and graphic designer Eduardo Lima show off the fun props, products and set designs.
• Behind The Camera with James Phelps: In his debut performance in the assistant director department, James actually becomes a crew member on set.
• Make-Up with Emma Watson: Emma and designer Amanda Knight talk about the biggest challenges on this year’s film.

One Minute Drills: The cast has 60 seconds to describe their character’s personality, history, relationships and other traits before time runs out.

Extras:
J.K. Rowling: A Year In The Life: A fascinating and intimate look into the life of J.K. Rowling over the last year of writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
What’s On Your Mind: Hosted by Tom Felton, the cast is put on the spot when asked a series of rapid-fire questions on their likes and dislikes.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ - Sneak Peak: Get an inside look at the amazing world of magic and excitement being created at Universal Orlando® Resort in Florida.

Additional Scenes:
• Harry and Hermione Walk Through the Halls of Hogwarts
• Harry and Hermione Discuss Marauder’s Map
• Harry, Ron & Hermione Discuss The Vanishing Cabinet
• Harry and Dumbledore Arrive At Cave Entrance
• Harry and Dumbledore Leave Cave
• Clouds Gather Over Hogwarts as Flitwick Conducts Choir
• Harry Joins Ron, Hermione and Ginny In The Common Room
• Harry and Hermione Discuss Ron At Astronomy Tower

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Thursday, August 12, 2010

Up (1 Disc) [DVD] [2009]

Up (1 Disc) [DVD] [2009]

Up (1 Disc) [DVD] [2009]
Directed by Pete Docter, Bob Peterson

Price: £7.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
At a time when too many animated films consist of anthropomorphized animals cracking sitcom one-liners and flatulence jokes, the warmth, originality, humor, and unflagging imagination of Up feel as welcome as rain in a desert. Carl Fredericksen (voice by Ed Asner) ranks among the most unlikely heroes in recent animation history. A 78-year-old curmudgeon, he enjoyed his modest life as a balloon seller because he shared it with his adventurous wife Ellie (Ellie Docter). But she died, leaving him with memories and the awareness that they never made their dream journey to Paradise Falls in South America. When well-meaning officials consign Carl to Shady Oaks Retirement Home, he rigs thousands of helium balloons to his house and floats to South America. The journey's scarcely begun when he discovers a stowaway: Russell (Jordan Nagai), a chubby, maladroit Wilderness Explorer Scout who's out to earn his Elderly Assistance Badge. In the tropical jungle, Carl and Russell find more than they bargained for: Charles Muntz (Christopher Plummer), a crazed explorer whose newsreels once inspired Carl and Ellie; Kevin, an exotic bird with a weakness for chocolate; and Dug (Bob Peterson), an endearingly dim golden retriever fitted with a voice box. More importantly, the travelers discover they need each other: Russell needs a (grand)father figure; Carl needs someone to enliven his life without Ellie. Together, they learn that sharing ice-cream cones and counting the passing cars can be more meaningful than feats of daring-do and distant horizons. Pete Docter (Monsters, Inc.) and Bob Peterson direct the film with consummate skill and taste, allowing the poignant moments to unfold without dialogue to Michael Giacchnio's vibrant score. Building on their work in The Incredibles and Ratatouille, the Pixar crew offers nuanced animation of the stylized characters. Even by Pixar's elevated standards, Up is an exceptional film that will appeal of audiences of all ages. Rated PG for some peril and action. --Charles Solomon

DVD Description
Carl Fredricksen spent his entire life dreaming of exploring the globe and experiencing life to its fullest. But at age 78, life seems to have passed him by, until a twist of fate (and a persistent 8-year old Junior Wilderness Explorer named Russell) gives him a new lease on life. Up takes audiences on a thrilling journey where the unlikely pair encounters wild terrain, unexpected villains and jungle creatures. When seeking adventure – look Up.

DVD Deluxe: Theatrical Short, Partly Cloudy
Exclusive Short, Dug’s Special Mission
Home Theatre Maximizer
Director Commentary w/ Pete Docter & Bob Peterson
Feature Documentary, Adventure is Out There
Alternate Scene, The Many Endings of Muntz
Learn How to Take Your Favourite Movies on the Go
Synopsis
A feisty septuagenarian teams with a fearless wilderness ranger to do battle with a vicious band of beasts and villains in this computer-animated adventure scripted by Pixar veteran Bob Peterson and co-directed by Peterson and MONSTERS, INC. director Peter Docter. Carl Fredricksen is a 78-year-old balloon salesman. His entire life, Carl has longed to wander the wilds of South America. Then, one day, the irascible senior citizen shocks his neighbours by tying thousands of balloons to his home and finally taking flight. But Carl isn't alone on his once-in-a-lifetime journey, because stowed away on his front porch is an excitable eight-year-old wilderness explorer named Russell. Later, as the house touches down on the world's second largest continent, Carl and his unlikely travelling companion step outside to discover that not only is their new front lawn considerably larger, but that the predators therein are much more ferocious than anything they ever faced back home.

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Toy Story/Toy Story 2 [DVD]

Toy Story/Toy Story 2 [DVD]

Toy Story/Toy Story 2 [DVD]
Directed by John Lasseter

Price: £9.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
Toy Story
There is greatness in a film that can be discussed, dissected, and talked about late into the night. Then there is genius that is right in front of our faces--you smile at the spell it puts you into and are refreshed, and not a word needs to be spoken. This kind of entertainment is what they used to call "movie magic" and there is loads of it in this irresistible computer animation feature. Just a picture of these bright toys on the cover of Toy Story looks intriguing as it reawakens the kid in us. Filmmaker John Lasseter's shorts illustrate not only a technical brilliance but also a great sense of humour--one in which the pun is always intended. Lasseter thinks of himself as a storyteller first and an animator second, much like another film innovator, Walt Disney. Lasseter's story is universal and magical: what do toys do when they're not played with? Cowboy Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Andy's favourite bedroom toy, tries to calm the other toys (some original, some classic) during a wrenching time of year--the birthday party, when newer toys may replace them. Sure enough, Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) is the new toy that takes over the throne. Buzz has a crucial flaw, though--he believes he's the real Buzz Lightyear, not a toy. Bright and cheerful, Toy Story is much more than a 90-minute commercial for the inevitable bonanza of Woody and Buzz toys. Lasseter further scores with perfect voice casting, including Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head and Wallace Shawn as a meek dinosaur. The director-animator won a special Oscar "For the development and inspired application of techniques that have made possible the first feature-length computer-animated film". In other words, this movie is great. --Doug Thomas

Toy Story 2
John Lasseter and his gang of high-tech creators at Pixar create another entertainment for the ages. Like the handful of other great movie sequels, Toy Story 2 comments on why the first one was so wonderful while finding a fresh angle worthy of a new film. The craze of toy collecting becomes the focus here, as we find out Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) is not only a beloved toy to Andy but also a rare doll from a popular 60s children's show. When a greedy collector takes Woody, Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) launches a rescue mission with Andy's other toys. To say more would be a crime because this is one of the most creative and smile-inducing films since, well, Toy Story. Although the toys look the same as in the 1994 feature, Pixar shows how much technology has advanced: the human characters look more human, backgrounds are superior, and two action sequences that book-end the film are dazzling. And it's a hoot for kids and adults. The film is packed with spoofs, easily accessible in-jokes and inspired voice casting (with newcomer Joan Cusack especially a delight as Cowgirl Jessie). But as the Pixar canon of films illustrates, the filmmakers are storytellers first. Woody's heart-tugging predicament can easily be translated into the eternal debate of living a good life versus living for forever. Toy Story 2 was deservedly a huge box-office success. --Doug Thomas, Amazon.com

Synopsis
Two features. TOY STORY and TOY STORY 2 - a dazzling sequel to the 1995 blockbuster. Andy heads off to summer camp, leaving the toys behind to fend for themselves. In much the same way Buzz discovered he is a mass-produced product in the first instalment, Woody discovers that he is a valuable collectible spawned by a popular 1950s kiddie-puppet TV show, 'Woody's Roundup Gang' when he is kidnapped by an evil toy collector, Al McWhiggin. Through Al, who plans to sell him to a Japanese toy museum, Woody is reunited with the toy versions of his TV cohorts plucky cowgirl Jessie (Cusack), prospector Stinky Pete (Grammer), and trusty horse Bullseye. Woody must choose between seeing Andy grow up and forsake him and living a sterile but eternal life behind glass being admired but not played with. Meanwhile, the rest of the original toy troupe undergoes a thrilling crosstown adventure to locate their kidnapped friend and restore him his rightful owner. Extremely entertaining, surprisingly touching, endlessly thrilling eye candy for anyone of any age. Golden Globe Winner: Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

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Nanny McPhee and The Big Bang [DVD] [2010]

Nanny McPhee & The Big Bang [DVD] [2010]

Nanny McPhee & The Big Bang [DVD] [2010]
Directed by Susanna White

Price: £9.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details

Editorial Reviews

DVD Description
Synopsis:

In Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang, Oscar®-winning actress and screenwriter Emma Thompson returns to the role of the magical nanny who appears when she’s needed the most and wanted the least in the next chapter of the hilarious and heartwarming fable that has enchanted children around the world.

In the latest installment, Nanny McPhee appears at the door of a harried young mother, Mrs. Isabel Green (Maggie Gyllenhaal), who is trying to run the family farm while her husband is away at war. But once she’s arrived, Nanny McPhee discovers that Mrs. Green’s children are fighting a war of their own against two spoiled city cousins who have just moved in and refuse to leave.

Relying on everything from a flying motorcycle and a statue that comes to life to a tree-climbing piglet and a baby elephant who turns up in the oddest places, Nanny McPhee uses her magic to teach her mischievous charges five new lessons.

Synopsis
Emma Thompson returns as the eponymous magical governess alongside an all-star cast that includes Maggie Gyllenhaal (STRANGER THAN FICTION), Rhys Ifans (NOTTING HILL), Ralph Fiennes (SCHINDLER’S LIST) and Maggie Smith (SISTER ACT). The second instalment from the popular franchise, this new adventure sees Nanny McPhee employing her supernatural skills to help a young mother (Maggie Gyllenahall) taking care of her unruly kids while her husband (Ewan McGregor) is courageously fighting for Britain during World War II. Based on the best-selling novel series NURSE MATILDA by Christianna Brand, NANNY MCPHEE AND THE BIG BANG has been scripted by versatile Thompson, who also penned the first chapter of the saga. The not-so-baddy-after-all in charge is this time played by an entertainingly histrionic Rhys Ifans.

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Alice in Wonderland [DVD] [2010]

Alice in Wonderland [DVD] [2010]

Alice in Wonderland [DVD] [2010]
Directed by Tim Burton

Price: £9.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery. Details


Editorial Reviews

Amazon.co.uk Review
The marriage of director Tim Burton with the darker edges of the Alice In Wonderland story seems, on paper, to be an impressive match. And to a point, it is: Burton’s film explodes with colour and style, bringing a real sense of imagination to the classic Lewis Carroll stories. Alice In Wonderland isn’t perfect, though. It’s, at heart, far more conventional than you may be expecting, and the beefing up of the Mad Hatter’s role to accommodate the casting of Johnny Depp is problematic. That said, Depp’s performance is fine, even if it’s Helena Bonham-Carter who steals every scene she’s in. And Burton also wisely casts a strong supporting cast of British thespians, who don’t get enough screen time, but make the most of what they get. The end result, however, is a fun telling of an engaging story. And while Tim Burton’s take on Alice In Wonderland is far from the best filmed take on the source material, it’s nonetheless a solid family movie. It also looks stunning on Blu-ray. The colourful production design comes across wonderfully well, in vibrant 1080p, and the enveloping sound mix matches it too. And given how often the film is likely to be re-spun over the years, it’s easily the best way to own the film. --Jon Foster

DVD Description
Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice for a fantastical new adventure from Walt Disney Pictures and Tim Burton. Inviting and magical, Alice In Wonderland is an imaginative new twist on one of the most beloved stories of all time. Alice (Mia Wasikowska), now 19 years old, returns to the whimsical world she first entered as a child and embarks on a journey to discover her true destiny. This Wonderland is a world beyond your imagination and unlike anything you’ve seen before. The extraordinary characters you’ve loved come to life richer and more colorful than ever. There’s the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp), the White Queen (Anne Hathaway), the Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter), the White Rabbit (Michael Sheen) and more. A triumphant cinematic experience – Alice In Wonderland is an incredible feast for your eyes, ears and heart that will captivate audiences of all sizes.

Synopsis
Tim Burton takes a stab at Lewis Carroll's timeless tale of a young girl (Mia Wasikowska) lost within a fantasyland with this 3-D production of ALICE IN WONDERLAND. THE LION KING's Linda Woolverton provides the script, with Hollywood heavyweights Richard Zanuck and Joe Roth heading up the production team. Burton veteran collaborator Johnny Depp co-stars as The Mad Hatter, marking the pair's sixth teaming in a partnership that's included the likes of EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, SLEEPY HOLLOW and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.

Nineteen-year-old Alice (Mia Wasikowska) is attending party at a lavish country estate when she sees a white rabbit with a pocket watch dart into the bushes. Curious, she follows the rabbit to an enormous tree, and tumbles down a hole that takes her to Underland, a strange world inhabited by anthropomorphic creatures in search of someone to save them from the dreaded Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter), who has stolen control of the kingdom from her sister the White Queen (Anne Hathaway), by decapitating anyone who dares disagree with her. According to a scroll detailing a historical timeline of Underland -- including events that have not yet taken place -- it is Alice who will set the kingdom free by defeating the Jabberwocky, a powerful dragon-like creature under the control of the Red Queen. But is this Alice the same Alice who appears in the scroll? While some of the creatures of Underland have their doubts, the Mad Hatter and his friends are certain she's the same girl who previously visited them years ago.

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