‘Little Miss Sunshine’
Michael Arndt won an Academy Award for his script about a family determined to get their young daughter into the finals of a beauty pageant so they take a cross-country trip in their VW bus. Greg Kinnear leads the clan and Alan Arkin took home a Best Supporting Oscar as the spirited grandfather. A making-of segment, gag scene, music, alternate endings are part of the disc. (Fox)
‘Batman’ The Motion Picture Anthology 1989-1997
The global film phenomenon that started 20 years ago with Tim Burton’s new version of the caped crusader now comes together in a sharp package that includes “Batman,” “Batman Returns,” “Batman Forever” and “Batman and Robin.” A cave full of extra material, over 18 hours worth, include deleted scenes, music videos, character analyses, director commentaries, makeup and visual effects segments, and the brilliant production design through the years. (Warner Bros)
‘Raging Bull’
One of the best films of the 1980s becomes more raw and riveting through the Blu-ray treatment. “Raging Bull” was nominated for eight Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director (Martin Scorsese). Robert DeNiro gives an Oscar-winning performance as the edgy, troubled boxer Jake LaMotta. Cast and crew commentary and a four-part documentary are also provided. (MGM)
‘French Connection’
Based on a true story the picture features Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider as New York City detectives trying to break a narcotics smuggling ring. This 1971 film won five Academy Awards. Breaking down the chase scene, a BBC documentary, and untold stories are included. “French Connection II” is available separately. (Fox)
‘The Who — Live at Isle of Wight’
This is one of the classic performances by an all-time leading rock ‘n’ roll band. It is presented in newly restored visuals, remixed sound and such exclusive extras as a new 40-minute interview with Pete Townshend and two songs not seen in the original film shot at their famed 1970 concert — “Substitute” and “Naked City.” (Eagle Rock)
‘Vanishing Point’
Barry Newman stars as an ex-Marine, ex-race car driver who takes the ride of his life trying to deliver a 1970 Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco with the heat on his tail. Presentation includes both U.S. and British film versions, a virtual dashboard, an interactive 1970 Dodge Challenger, a 70s trivia track and director commentary. (Fox)
‘Ronin’
This clever thriller was helmed by John Frankenheimer, director of the Oscar-winning auto racing film, “Grand Prix.” It is no surprise therefore that this story about a group of covert agents on a job includes one of the more memorable chase scenes in cinematic history. Robert DeNiro and Jean Reno star. Package includes Smart Menu Technology and 1080HD resolution. (MGM)
‘Sideways’
This bittersweet journey of midlife self-discovery through scenic California wine country won a Golden Globe as Best Picture. Starring Paul Giamatti and Virginia Madsen, this presentation also includes a behind-the-scenes segment as well as deleted scenes. (Fox)
‘Any Given Sunday’ Director’s Cut
Acclaimed director Oliver Stone’s look at the competition, both on and off the field, of America’s favorite sport. There are more than a dozen deleted and extended scenes, a slide show, still gallery, music videos, as well as commentary by Stone and Jamie Foxx. NFL greats like Jim Brown and Lawrence Taylor appear. (Warner Bros)
Randy Williams can be reached at writtenbyrw@yahoo.com