Holiday Movie Madness

[December 21st, 2005] Looking for the last-minute holiday gift ideas or just something to watch over the long weekend? Here are a few suggestions that might work for you.

Serenity—The big-screen conclusion to the ill-fated science-fiction television series Firefly mainly attracted fans, which is a shame, because this was one of the more entertaining films of the years. You don't even need to be familiar with the original series to enjoy this fast-paced space adventure that pits roguish mercenaries against an evil galactic empire.

The Rockford Files: Season One—Not only was this one of the best television series of the 1970s, but three decades later it holds up as one of the best shows of all time. James Garner stars as Jim Rockford, an ex-con turned private gumshoe who week after week used his wit and charm to solve the cases too difficult for the cops.

Sin City: Extended Edition—I warned all of you when Sin City first came out on DVD that an everything-and-the-kitchen-sink über-edition would be coming just around the corner. Most of you didn't listen, and now you're going to have to buy this two-disc version too because...well...because Sin City kicks ass!

The Producers: Deluxe Edition—Forget the insipid new version starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick (see review). Instead, invest your money wisely in this newly released double-disc version of the 1968 classic. Mel Brooks' original has Zero Mostel, Gene Wilder, Dick Shawn and Kenneth Mars in comedic perfection. The new version in theaters has jack and shit.

One Day in September (1999) and 21 Hours at Munich (1976)—If Steven Spielberg's new film Munich floats your boat (see review, page 59), you should check out Kevin Macdonald's 1999 documentary, which chronicles the tragic events at the 1972 Munich Olympics, when 11 Israelis were killed by Palestinian terrorists. Also of interest is the 1976 made-for-television movie, which dramatizes the same events.