October 30th :

October 30th :Eric Bibb: Live on CD…

This package combines two separate radio shows, recorded live in Paris in March and December last year which,according toDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Roberts,confirm Eric Bibb’s status as the number one world-bluesman, over a total of 20 tracks.

Eric Bibb: Live A FIPis online and out on CD now.

New films at this cinema this weekend…

Stuck for something to do this weekend? The list of films showing atManchester Showcase Cinema can be found on this page, and won’t differmuch from what’s on in the rest of the country.

The new films out include: Michael Jackson: This Is It and 9.

October 28th :CHARTS: Alexandra Burke vs Cheryl Cole – who got the No.1…?

Check out themusic chart analysis pagewhich is online now.

The release dates for singles and albums go up until early December.

October 27th :An impressive debut from Beggar Joe on CD…

That’s howDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsdescribes this 13-tracker release from this Manchester quintet, with some blues to open, then onto a funky groove, ajazzier mood and then an ambient long track at the end.

Beggar Joe: Beggar Joeis online and out on CD now.

October 26th :Will you become the King of Fighters on Xbox 360?…

Out now:

Fighting games have become more and more complex as the years have gone on, but sometimes it’s worth going back to the”old school” style and giving them a blast, and this is the latest in a series of 2D fighters that’s out in high-deffor the first time.

King of Fighters XIIis online and out on Xbox 360 now.

Kris Kristofferson releases his swansong on CD…

Well, possibly, his swansong. It’s his 20th studio album, he’s 73 years of age and this releases sees Mr K indeeply reflective mood.DVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertssums up the 11-tracker as “well worth checking out.”

Kris Kristofferson: Closer To The Boneis online and out on CD now.

Youtube highlight: John Simm on GMTV…

Actor John Simm appeared on GMTV to promote his new play, Speaking in Tongues, in London,and there’s also new and recent interviews online from Michael Keaton, Steve Pemberton and Tim Healy.

New Blu-ray comps online…

Please enter the competition listed below by clicking on the packshot on the right.

• Fast & Furious on Blu-ray

CHARTS: Alexandra Burke vs Cheryl Cole – who got the new No.1…?

Check back shortly for the latest charts on themusic chart analysis page.

New DVD highlights out this week…

Once again, we look at a few titles in more detail.

The titles of note are the following, but read on for further details about the highlights:

• ABBA In Japan (Deluxe Version) (17.99 DVD, UMC)
• Alan Bennett At The BBC (29.99 DVD, BBC)
• Bones Season 4 (39.99 DVD, 109.99 Complete DVD Boxset, Fox)
• Coming Of Age Series 1 (15.99 DVD, BBC)
• Coronation Street: Romanian Holiday (19.99 DVD, ITV)
• Dances With Wolves (17.99 Blu-ray, Warner)
• District 13: Ultimatum (15.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, 24.99 DVD Double Bill, 29.99 Blu-ray Double Bill, Momentum)
• Doctor Who Series 1-4 (89.99 DVD, BBC)
• Drag Me to Hell (19.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Lions Gate)
• ER: Complete Seasons 1-15 (129.99 DVD, Warner)
• George Carlin: It’s Bad For Ya (17.99 DVD, Anchor Bay)
• Ghost In The Shell 2.0 Redux (19.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Manga)
• IP Man (17.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Showbox)
• Le Donk And Scor-Zay-Zee (15.99 DVD, Warp)
• Lost Season 5 (44.99 DVD, 60.99 Blu-ray, 174.99 Complete DVD Boxset, Buena Vista)
• Marion & Geoff Series 1 & 2 (19.99 DVD, BBC)
• Monsters vs Aliens (24.99 DVD, 26.99 Blu-ray, Paramount)
• Most Haunted Series 11 (29.99 DVD, Universal)
• Monty Python: Almost The Truth – The Lawyer’s Cut (24.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Eagle)
• Obsessed (17.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Sony)
• Rocky: The Complete Saga (78.99 Blu-ray, Fox)
• Saxondale Series 1 & 2 (19.99 DVD, BBC)
• Torchwood Series 1-3 (59.99 DVD, 69.99 Blu-ray, BBC)
• True Blood Season 1 (39.99 DVD,

Lost Season 5

The epic story of LOST twists, turns and time-shifts in its outstanding fifth season. Packed with bonus material, including a revealing interview with the cast and an exclusive behind-the-scenes feature, LOST is better than ever on DVD.

When destiny calls, the Oceanic 6 find their way back to the island. Discover what forced them to return, and find out the fate of all those who were left behind. The answers to some of LOST’s most pressing questions are revealed in this spectacular 5-disc collection, complete with deleted scenes and an incredible vault of exclusive bonus features.

Special Features:

• LOST On Location – Get The Inside Stories From The Cast And Crew
• Building 23 & Beyond – Join Michael Emerson As He Infi ltrates The Secret LOST Offi ces To Meet The Team Who Is Behind The Show’s Real Mysteries
• An Epic Day With Richard Alpert – Follow Nestor Carbonell Across The Island On The Intense Last Day Of The Season’s Finale
• Making Up For LOST Time – An Interesting And Humourous Look At How The Producers, Writers And Cast Sort Out The Survivors’ Leaps Through Time
• Mysteries Of The Universe: The DHARMA Initiative – The Recently Unearthed And Complete Exposé Questioning The Truth Of The DHARMA Initiative
• LOST Bloopers
• Deleted Scenes
• Audio Commentaries

Lost Season 5 is out now on Blu-ray (£44.79),DVD (£33.88) andComplete (£79.98).

True Blood Season 1.

Created by SIX FEET UNDER’s Alan Ball, TRUE BLOOD is like a sexier, bloodier older sister to the relatively well-behaved TWILIGHT. This HBO drama is based on the Southern Vampire Mysteries novels by Charlaine Harris, a series set in a world where vampires have just begun to ‘come out’ after a synthetic blood substitute called True Blood is introduced. Oscar winner Anna Paquin stars as Sookie Stackhouse, a telepathic waitress living in Bon Temps, Louisiana, who falls hard for Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer), a Civil War veteran and vampire. But their romantic romps aren’t the only draw for the series: the existence between humans and vampires is an uneasy one, and people are dying.

Clothes fall to the floor almost as often as blood spatters the walls in this show that blends supernatural horror, sex, and mystery, with just a little bit of social commentary thrown in for good measure. Executive producer Ball and his writers have shaped a variety of fascinating characters in addition to Sookie and Bill, including Sookie’s mysterious boss, Sam Merlotte (Sam Trammell); her best friend, Tara (Rutina Wesley); her womanising brother, Jason (Ryan Kwanten); and her sweet grandmother, Adele (Lois Smith). This collection presents the show’s complete first series.

True Blood Season 1 is out now on Blu-ray (£34.98) andDVD (£27.78).

Monsters vs Aliens

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.

Monsters vs Aliens is out now on Blu-ray (£16.98) andDVD (£14.88).

Coronation Street: Romanian Holiday

What could be better? A footballer’s wedding, a week in the sun, a luxury villa in historic Transylvania. It’s the trip of a lifetime for Coronation Street’s favourite café owners Roy and Hayley Cropper, until the brash Glen and Verity appear… Opposites don’t attract in this chaotic comic caper as the unlikely foursome embark on an adventure neither couple will ever forget. And when Weatherfield hell-raiser Becky McDonald jets in from her honeymoon, the stage is set for mountain mayhem deep in the heart of Dracula Country.

In a one-off special for ITV DVD filmed entirely on location in Romanian, café owners Roy and Hayley are delighted when a face from their past invites them to attend her glamorous wedding to a footballer currently plying his trade in the Romanian league.Excited at the prospect of catching up with an old friend and combining the wedding with a few days in Eastern Europe, the culture vultures set off on their travels. But things quickly take an unexpected turn for the worse. Although problems with their flight mean they miss the wedding, the disappointed pair are looking forward to a few days of relaxation at a remote villa. Yet no sooner have they unpacked their bags than they are joined by loud and brash couple Verity and Glen, the groom’s aunt and uncle. A clash of personalities soon ensues as Hayley and Roy try to make the best of the situation. However, the noisy and vulgar antics of Glen and Verity prove too much and the couple cut short their trip. About to board the flight home, Roy and Hayley’s adventure takes another unexpected twist when they bump into a familiar face – Weatherfield hellraiser Becky Granger….

Coronation Street: Romanian Holiday is out now on DVD (£11.98).

October 23rd :Press releases for new games and DVDs…

New press releases are online now for the following:

• IP Man on Blu-ray and DVD
• Ross Noble: Nobleism on DVD

The latest press releasesare online now.

CHARTS: Chipmunk vs Alexandra Burke – who got the No.1…?

Check out themusic chart analysis pagewhich is online now.

The release dates for singles and albums go up until early December.

New films at this cinema this weekend…

Stuck for something to do this weekend? The list of films showing atManchester Showcase Cinema can be found on this page, and won’t differmuch from what’s on in the rest of the country.

The new films out include: Saw 6, The Fantastic Mr Fox, The Goods and Cirque Du Freak.

October 21st :Youtube highlight: Richard Herring on The Wright Stuff…

Comedian Richard Herring appeared on The Wright Stuff to promote his new show, As It Occurs To Me, in London,and there’s plenty other new stuff from recent episodes up on the Wright Stuff Youtube page now!

October 20th :The army of the Twelve Monkeys are out in force on Blu-ray…

Out now:

It’s the future and 99% of the world’s population are dead. But it’s already happened. In order to find out what causedit, James Cole (Bruce Willis) will have to go back to 1996 and gather some information. But when he ends up in 1990 bymistake and is locked up in a mental institution along with patient Brad Pitt and with one of the doctors beingMadeline Stowe, it’ll take a lot to convince her that he’s telling the truth…

Twelve Monkeysis online and out on Blu-ray now.

October 19th :Wolverine’s beginnings in a new X-Men movie on Blu-ray…

Out today:

Hugh Jackman stars in the lead role as a troubled man with knives where his knuckles should be, but he has adisagreement with brother Victor Creed (Liev Schreiber) to the point where they want each other dead, but will thathappen in the end, or will some other baddie get in the way that’ll cause them to work together? Oh, what do youthink?

X-Men Origins: Wolverineis online and out on Blu-ray from today.

Paloma Faith gives you the truth on CD…

And the truth, according toDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsis that it she could knock Amy Winehouse’s chances of a successful return out of the ballpark as she brings you10 tracks that he calls a Glitter-coated classic.

Paloma Faith: Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful?is online and out on CD now.

New Blu-ray comps online…

Please enter the competition listed below by clicking on the packshot on the right.

• Fast & Furious on Blu-ray

Note that the comp for An American Werewolf in London on Blu-ray has now finished and the winners have beenpicked and will be notified shortly. The answer was that Jenny Agutter played Nurse Alex Price.

CHARTS: Chipmunk vs Alexandra Burke – who got the new No.1…?

Check back shortly for the latest charts on themusic chart analysis page.

New DVD highlights out this week…

Once again, we look at a few titles in more detail.

The titles of note are the following, but read on for further details about the highlights:

• 24 Season 7 (49.99 DVD, 73.99 Blu-ray, 209.99 Season 1-7+Redemption, Fox)
• The Ashes 2009: The Official Story (29.99 DVD, 2 Entertain)
• Blue Murder Series 5 (19.99 DVD, ITV)
• Brothers and Sisters Season 3 (30.99 DVD, 84.99 Complete DVD, Disney)
• Big Bang Theory Season 2 (24.99 DVD, Warner)
• Columbo: The Complete Series (129.99 DVD, Universal)
• Crooked House (15.99 DVD, BBC)
• Dirty Harry Collection (44.99 Blu-ray, Warner)
• Dirty Sexy Money Season 2 (35.99 DVD, Disney)
• Doctor Who: The Dalek Collecton (15.99 DVD, BBC)
• Fawlty Towers: Remastered (24.99 DVD, BBC)
• Futurama: The Specials (24.99 DVD, Fox)
• How Not To Live Your Life Series 2 (19.99 DVD, BBC)
• I Sell The Dead (15.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Anchor Bay)
• Jonathan Creek: The Grinning Man (15.99 DVD, BBC)
• Just William: The Complete Series (29.99 DVD, Network)
• Last House On The Left 2009 (19.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Universal)
• Last Chance To See with Stephen Fry and Mark Carwardine (24.99 DVD, 29.99 Blu-ray, Digital Classics)
• The Lions 2009 South Africa: Living With The Pride (24.99 DVD, Lace)
• London’s Burning Series 1-7 Complete (99.99 DVD, Network)
• Most Haunted Live Series 7 (19.99 DVD, Universal)
• Porridge Complete Box Set (39.99 DVD, BBC)
• Rab C. Nesbitt Series 1-8 (48.99 DVD, BBC)
• Rudo And Cursi (17.99 DVD, Optimum)
• South Park Series 12 (24.99 DVD, Paramount)
• Two And A Half Men Season 6 (24.99 DVD, Warner)
• The Uninvited (17.99 DVD, 26.99 Blu-ray, Paramount)
• X-Men Origins: Wolverine (19.99 DVD, 28.99 Blu-ray, Fox)
• ZZ Top: Double Down Live (17.99 DVD, Eagle)

24 Season 7

Following up on the harrowing events of the feature-length movie REDEMPTION, 24’s full-throttle seventh series once again hurtles viewers back into the breathless pace of the programme proper, with all the fast-paced verve fans have come to expect from FOX’s blockbuster action franchise. Federal Agent Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) returns from working alongside old friend Carl Benton at an underprivileged boys’ school in war-ravaged Sangala, Africa, where he was forced to spring back into action after a heinous warlord kidnapped schoolchildren to be recruited as soldiers for a planned coup.

Back in the States, Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones) has been inaugurated as the country’s first female president, which puts her family in danger. Soon after returning, Jack discovers that the terrorists who have breached the government’s computer database infrastructure may be the same ones behind the Sangala incident. In addition, the CTU is out of commission and Elisha Cuthbert returns as Jack’s daughter, Kim. Included here are all 24 episodes.

Extras: • 14 Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by the Producer & Co-Executive Producer • UK created featurette – ‘24 in 24’ • 21 ‘Scenemaker’ segments: including behind the scenes footage, production details and more • Featurette – The Fimucitè Festival Presents: The Music Of 24 • Featurette – ‘Hour 19: The Ambush’ • Featurette – 24-7: The Untold Story • 12 Audio Commentaries

REDEMPTION sets the scene for the seventh season of FOX’s blockbuster action series 24, and it does so with all the fast-paced verve fans have come to expect from the franchise. This feature-length movie finds Federal Agent Jack Bauer working alongside old friend Carl Benton (Robert Carlyle) at an underprivileged boys’ school in war-ravaged Sangala, Africa. Despite receiving a subpoena from a squirrelly bureaucrat (Gil Bellows), Jack springs into action when the coward of a U.N. representative who’s been assigned to protect the village does nothing to stop a heinous warlord (Tony Todd) from kidnapping schoolchildren to be recruited in his army and staging a coup. Meanwhile, in the United States, it’s the day of inauguration for the country’s first female president, Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones), but her son just may be the target of the corrupt businessman (Jon Voight) responsible for funding that bloody African uprising.

24 Season 7 is out now on Blu-ray (£52.98),DVD (£33.88) andComplete (£144.98).

Last House On The Left.

Based on Wes Craven’s landmark 1972 exploitation flick of the same name, LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT is a brutal movie that exposes the darkest recesses of human depravity. The simple plot follows four criminals on the lam who encounter a pair of nubile female teens in a small mountain town. After murdering one and brutally raping the other and leaving her for dead, the cons seek refuge at a nearby summer house. The twist is that it’s the very home inhabited by the parents of one of the victims. Upon learning that their house guests raped and tortured their 17-year-old daughter, the couple exact a revenge that arguably exceeds the excesses of the sociopathic gang.

When originally released in 1972, LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT was a shock to the system. Never before had a film shown such images of human wickedness. Grainy and low budget, the original film played like a maniacal cackle from the seedy underbelly of an America nursing a brutal post-Aquarian hangover. Things play out a little differently, though, in 2009. For starters, the movie actually looks quite beautiful, and the story’s idyllic mountain setting is milked for all it’s worth.

The performances are noteworthy as well, with Garret Dillahunt more than convincing as Krug, the gang’s swaggering leader; and Monica Potter and Tony Goldwyn portraying the distressed parents with an effective mix of panic, courage, and blind instinct. In an age marked by both increasingly ghastly films and a public discourse that actually debates the merits of institutional torture, a film like LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT really shouldn’t shock anyone. But in both the original and the remake, there’s a latent nihilism that permeates the world. The idea of a sense of lawlessness that cannot be understood or prevented, but only reacted against, is truly disquieting and makes this story unique in the annals of horror.

Last House On The Left is out now on Blu-ray (£13.98) andDVD (£8.98).

Fawlty Towers: Remastered

This Special Edition marks the 30th Anniversary of one of the greatest situation comedies British television has ever seen. Every episode of the BAFTA winning sitcom has been fantastically remastered and for the first time ever John Cleese provides audio commentaries on all 12 episodes.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

• Exclusive commentaries by John Cleese
• 2009 Extended Interviews
• Includes exclusive interview with Connie Booth
• Accompanying booklet
• Interviews with John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs.
• Series 1 director’s commentary by John Howard Davies
• Series 2 director’s commentary by Bob Spiers
• Artist profiles
• Out takes
• Torquay Tourist Guide (short documentary film)
• Cheap Tatty Review
• Audio Description & Navigation Option

Series One: Written by John Cleese and Connie Booth. Directed and produced by John Howard Davies.
Series Two: Written by John Cleese and Connie Booth. Directed by Bob Spiers. Produced by Douglas Argent
2009 interviews originally filmed for “Fawlty Towers: Re-opened” for GOLD.

Fawlty Towers: Remastered is out now on DVD (£12.98).

Dirty Harry Collection

Veteran actor Clint Eastwood stars as inspector ‘Dirty’ Harry Callahan of the San Francisco Police Department in this iconic series.In THE DEAD POOL a film crew place bets on which celebrities they think will fall foul of a crazed serial killer.

In DIRTY HARRY, a tough, unorthodox police detective goes on the trail of a psychotic killer who’s been terrorising the city of San Francisco. In MAGNUM FORCE, a police inspector has the grim task of tracking down a killer within police ranks who is cold-bloodedly slaughtering villains. SUDDEN IMPACT sees Dirty Harry investigating a series of brutal murders in a small town. The bloodshed continues with THE ENFORCER, in which an unredeemable individual who enjoys killing teams up with a group of psychopathic hoodlums.

Dirty Harry Collection is out now on Blu-ray (£29.88) andDVD (£15.98).

October 16th :Press releases for new games and DVDs…

New press releases are online now for the following:

• Night at the Museum 2 on Blu-ray and DVD
• Columbo: The Complete Seasons 1-10 on DVD
• Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles Season 2 on Blu-ray and DVD
• Last Chance Harvey on Blu-ray and DVD
• Bones Season 4 on DVD
• Michael McIntyre: Hello Wembley on DVD
• Land of the Lost on Blu-ray and DVD
• ‘Allo ‘Allo, Hi De Hi & All Creatures Great & Small Complete Collections on DVD
• Rich Hall & Otis Lee Crenshaw – Hell No I Ain’t Happy! on DVD

The latest press releasesare online now.

Turn on, tune in, drop out…again: Woodstock Two on CD…

This CD picks up from the end of the previous one with Jimi Hendrix pulling off the finale after taking to the stagenine hours late. The release also features tracks from Jefferson Airplane, Butterfield Blues Band, Joan Baez,Bob Dylan and Crosby Stills Nash & Young.

DVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertscontinues to enjoy three Days Of Music And Peace.

Woodstock Two OST: Various Artistsis online and out on CD now.

October 15th :Juliette Lewis continues her music career with a new CD…

When she’s not acting she’s a prolific musician and has just released a new album without her backing band, The Licks.However, DVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsconfirms that this release is a combination of hits and misses.

Juliette Lewis: Terra Incognitais online and out on CD now.

October 14th :CHARTS: Taio Cruz vs Chipmunk – who got the No.1…?

Check out themusic chart analysis pagewhich is online now.

The release dates for singles and albums go up until early December.

Youtube highlight: Scott Capurro on The Wright Stuff…

Comedian Scott Capurro appeared on The Wright Stuff to promote his new show, Scott Capurro’s Position at London’s Vauxhall Tavern, every Thursday in October.

October 13th :The Times BFI 53rd London Film Festival 2009 Preview…

Another year, another London Film Festival, and DVDfever.co.uk reviewer Helen Jerometakes a look at what’s to come with the 53rd annual festival with this preview.

The Times BFI 53rd London Film Festival 2009 Previewis online now.

October 12th :A football fan in despair goes Looking for Eric on Blu-ray…

Out today:

Steve Evets plays Eric Bishop, a man whose life has seen better days and he can’t find anything that’ll improvehis life, so all he’s left with is a string of regrets as well as having let down his children and everyone else heloves. Forever a fan of Manchester United, he idolises Eric Cantona, and when he needs it most, he gets a vision ofthe man himself to give him guidance… but it *is* just a vision, right?

Ken Loach directs a great cast including Gerard Kearns, Stephanie Bishop, Lucy-Jo Hudson, John Henshaw and the cream ofManchester’s comedy talent including Justin Moorhouse, Mick Ferry and Des Sharples.

Looking for Ericis online and out on Blu-ray from today.

Cerys Matthews releases a bi-lingual CD…

Well, it’s an album released separately in English and Welsh versions and this 12-tracker andDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsconfirms it’s a drastic shift from her previous two albums, but after a life that’s had its ups and downs, this albumacts as a form of catharsis and, overall, is very impressive.

Cerys Matthews: Don’t Look Downis online and out on CD now.

New DVD and Blu-ray comps online…

Please enter the competition listed below by clicking on the packshot on the right.

• Fast & Furious on Blu-ray
• An American Werewolf in London on Blu-ray

Note that the DVD comp for Fifty Dead Men Walking has now finished and the winners have beenpicked and will be notified shortly. The answer was that Rose McGowan starred in Death Proof.

CHARTS: Taio Cruz vs Chipmunk – who got the new No.1…?

Check back shortly for the latest charts on themusic chart analysis page.

New DVD highlights out this week…

Once again, we look at a few titles in more detail.

The titles of note are the following, but read on for further details about the highlights:

• 12 Rounds (15.99 DVD, 28.99 Blu-ray, Fox)
• At Last Smith And Jones Vol.1 (19.99 DVD, Revelation)
• B-Girl (15.99 DVD, 19.99 Blu-ray, Anchor Bay)
• Bridget Jones’ Diary (19.99 Blu-ray, Universal)
• Chuck Season 2 (39.99 DVD, Warner)
• Coraline (19.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Universal)
• Doghouse (15.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Sony)
• Eddie Murphy Delirious 25th Anniversary Edition (17.99 DVD, Anchor Bay)
• The Fixer Series 2 (19.99 DVD, 2 Entertain)
• Hell Ride (15.99 DVD, 22.99 Blu-ray, Warner)
• Heroes Season 3 (49.99 DVD, 59.99 Blu-ray, 89.99 Season 1-3 DVD, 119.99 Season 1-3 Blu-ray)
• Hot Fuzz (19.99 Blu-ray, Universal)
• Katy Brand’s Big Ass Show Series 2 (19.99 DVD, 2 Entertain)
• Looking For Eric (19.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Icon)
• Love Actually (19.99 Blu-ray, Universal)
• Meerkat Manor Series 1-4 (69.99 DVD, Demand DVD)
• One Tree Hill Season 6 (49.99 DVD, Warner)
• Prisoner Cell Block H Vol.3 (24.99 DVD, Fremantle)
• Smallville Season 8 (49.99 DVD, 59.99 Blu-ray, Warner)
• Sanctuary Season 1 (39.99 DVD, E1)
• Shaun of the Dead (19.99 Blu-ray, Universal)
• Spooks Series 7 (39.99 DVD, E1)
• Synecdoche, New York (15.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Revolver)

Spooks Series 7

The world of Spooks gets no easier for its occupants as the show arrives at its seventh season, as the team of counter-terrorist spies face a continued selection of substantive challenges. All of them, of course, they have to tackle without compromising their anonymity, and once more, it proves to be a tense, edge-of-your-seat drama.

The big new addition for Spooks series 7 is Richard Armitage – fresh from Robin Hood – who plays Lucas North, a spy who returns to the team following years locked away in Russia. North, inevitably, attracts suspicion from those around him, with many wondering if he’s all he appears to be, and the script plays on this tremendously well. It adds an extra level of menace to a show that’s already adept at keeping you on your toes.

It’s gripping stuff. Packaged together with barely a breath wasted, Spooks maintains an impressive momentum throughout its seventh series, and hasn’t lost its knack of pulling a big surprise, or yanking the rug from right underneath your seat. Its issues are very much contemporary too, from the ongoing terrorist threat to the possibility of the British financial system collapsing. And with an ending that leaves you salivating for the next series, Spooks proves itself once more to be one of Britain’s finest television thrillers. More please!

Spooks Series 7 is out now on DVD (£25.98).

Coraline.

Based on Neil Gaiman’s international best-selling book and helmed by The Nightmare Before Christmas director Henry Selick, is the first high definition, stop-motion animated feature to be shot in 3D. In the film, a young girl (voiced by Dakota Fanning) walks through a secret door in her new home and discovers an alternate version of her life. On the surface, this parallel reality is eerily similar to her real life–only much better. But when this wondrously off-kilter, fantastical adventure turns dangerous, and her counterfeit other mother (voiced by Teri Hatcher) tries to keep her forever, Coraline must count on her stubborn determination, bravery, the aid of her neighbours and a talking black cat to save her real parents and some ghost children and to get back home.

Special Features:

• Includes 3D lenticular sleeve and 4 pairs of 3D glasses
• Feature Commentary
• PIP tours and Voice Sessions
• PIP Animatic
• Deleted Scenes
• The Making Of Coraline
• Voicing The Characters
• Creepy Coraline

Coraline is out now on Blu-ray (£15.98) andDVD (£11.98).

Heroes Season 3

Experience all the explosive action and shocking twists as Heroes Season 3 comes to Blu-Ray! Rediscover the phenomenon in this 6-disc set, which includes all 25 suspenseful episodes from the series-redefining third season’s volumes, Villains and Fugitives. Plus, go behind the scenes with the show’s writers, stars and artists as you explore hours of exclusive and revealing bonus features.

Follow your favourite heroes with the interactive Hero Connections. With just one click, access interactive cast and crew interviews and behind-the-scenes footage using the Picture in Picture feature while you watch the episode. Access the BD-Live Centre online and download even more bonus content: the newest trailers, on-set interviews, exclusive events and much more!

Special Features

• The Super Powers of Heroes
• Completing the Scene
• The Prop Box
• Tim Sale Gallery of Screen Art
• Genetics of a Scene: This is an on-going series for DVD fans. The Heroes directors and actors give an in-depth look at the production process of creating a specific scene.
• Season Four Sneak Peek- Only available through BD-Live
• The Writer’s Forum
• Building Coyote Sands
• Deleted Scenes

Heroes Season 3 is out now on Season 3 Blu-ray (£43.98),Season 3 DVD (£35.68),Season 1-3 Blu-ray (£88.09) andSeason 1-3 DVD (£64.98).

Smallville Season 8

There’s a new reporter at the Daily Planet: Clark Kent, who shares a workspace with Lois Lane. There s a new hero in Metropolis, too. No one knows who he is. But Jimmy Olsen was on the scene of one of the do-gooder s exploits, and he snapped a blurred photo of the hero in super-speed action a hero everyone now calls the Red-Blue Blur. Red-jacketed, blue-shirted Clark Kent draws closer to his Superman destiny in the exciting 22-episode, Season 8 of Smallville.

Another Kryptonian destiny also takes shape. Davis Bloome begins to realise he is Doomsday. His mission on Earth: kill Clark Kent. So many new events (will Jimmy and Chloe s marriage last?), so many new faces (Tess Mercer, Saturn Girl and Cosmic Boy among them), so many state-of-the-art effects so don’t miss a single thrill-packed moment.

Smallville Season 8 is out now on Blu-ray (£42.88) andDVD (£34.98).

October 9th :Turn on, tune in, drop out: Woodstock on CD…

It all began on Friday 15th August, 1969, and this is the first of two soundtrack CDs for the event, this one containing21 tracks.

DVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsbegins to enjoy three Days Of Music And Peace.

Woodstock OST: Various Artistsis online and out on CD now.

October 7th :CHARTS: Taio Cruz vs The Veronicas – who got the No.1…?

Check out themusic chart analysis pagewhich is online now.

The release dates for singles and albums go up until early December.

October 6th :Imelda May Live in Wrexham…

AsDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsconfirms, According to Jools Holland Irish chanteuse Imelda May has ‘it’, and last Monday she entertained the crowded at CentralStation, Wrexham for a 90-minute masterclass in Rockabilly.

Imelda May Live in Wrexhamis online now.

October 5th :Shaun of the Dead comes to Blu-ray…

Out next Monday:

Fans of the classic Channel 4 comedy, Spaced, need look no further for entertainment as many of the cast andcrew return for a movie that’s not a continuation, but does the kind of thing I like to see…

Since the Spaced story had gone as far as it could, I want to see more excellence from the same team, but in adifferent way, and that’s exactly what we’ve got here. There’s also scores of extras that are actually worth looking at!

Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Bill Nighy, Kate Ashfield, Penelope Wilton, Dylan Moran, Lucy Davis and PeterSerafinowicz indulge in a romantic comedy… with zombies. And now it’s released on Blu-ray too.

Shaun of the Deadis online and out on Blu-ray from next Monday.

Muse are back and better than ever on CD and DVD…

That’s howDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertssums up this latest album from the Devonian trio, stating that their previous release, Black Holes And Revelationswas a monster album scaling all aspects of contemporary rock, and that this one’s even grander and When they’re inthis mood, they’re unstoppable, and unmatched.

Muse: The Resistanceis online and out on CD now.

Youtube highlight: Ricky Gervais on GMTV…

Writer/comedian Ricky Gervais appeared on GMTV to talk about his new film, The Invention of Lying.

New DVD and Blu-ray comps online…

Please enter the competition listed below by clicking on the packshot on the right.

• Fast & Furious on Blu-ray
• An American Werewolf in London on Blu-ray
• Fifty Dead Men Walking on DVD

Note that the Blu-ray comps for Red Dragon (The original version of this film was Manhunter) andHannibal (Julianne Moore took over the role of Clarice) have now finished and the winners have beenpicked and will be notified shortly.

CHARTS: Taio Cruz vs The Veronicas – who got the new No.1…?

Check back shortly for the latest charts on themusic chart analysis page.

New DVD highlights out this week…

Once again, we look at a few titles in more detail.

The titles of note are the following, but read on for further details about the highlights:

• House Season 5 (39.99 DVD, 99.99 Season 1-5 Boxset, Universal)
• Doctor Who: Dalek War (34.99 DVD, BBC)
• Merlin Series 1 (24.99 DVD, BBC)
• Inspector Lynley Series 5 (19.99 DVD, Acorn)
• My Name Is Earl Season 4 (34.99 DVD, 99.99 Season 1-4 Boxset, Fox)
• The Avengers – Series 2 And Surviving Episodes From Series 1 (79.99 DVD, Optimum)
• It Ain’t Half Hot Mum Series 8 (15.99 DVD, BBC)
• Rick Wakeman: The Six Wives Of Henry VIII – Live At Hampton Court Palace (21.99 Blu-ray, Eagle)
• The Red Baron (17.99 DVD, 19.99 Blu-ray, Showbox)
• Andrew Marr’s History Of Modern Britain (19.99 DVD, BBC)
• Red Cliff (23.99 DVD, 29.99 Blu-ray, EIV)
• Milton Jones Live Universe Tour Part 1: Earth (19.99 DVD, Spirit)
• Time Bandits (19.99 Blu-ray, Optimum)
• Walled In (12.99 DVD, Momentum)
• Deadline (15.99 DVD, Metrodome)
• Big Fat Important Movie (15.99 DVD, 24.99 Blu-ray, Anchor Bay)
• Lunch Monkeys (19.99 DVD, BBC)

House Season 5

Who wouldn’t want to see a doctor like House? Quite a lot of us, we’d wager, as Hugh Laurie’s ultra-sarcastic never-pleasant Dr House continues to chuck out wonderful, biting one-liners and insults to anyone who steps in his way. Season five has no shortage of them, but there are also signs here that an already impressive show is maturing extremely well.

This time, we get to find out quite a bit more about House himself, as season five digs into the sides of his character that we’ve rarely seen before. Around him, others aren’t having the best of times either, and with that in mind, the comedic elements that have been a trademark of the show since it began are gradually turned down here. As it happens, that’s no bad thing, as instead House’s fifth season adds depth and development to the set-up, all the while trying to solve seemingly-impossible medical cases.

The evolution of House himself also gives a platform for Hugh Laurie to demonstrate just why he’s one of the most in-demand television actors on the planet. He’s just brilliant here, utterly owning the role and showing a real range to his performance. His supporting cast are fine too, but this is very much Laurie’s show.

House Season 5 is out now onDVD (£24.68) andSeaso 1-5 Boxset (£72.98).

Doctor Who: Dalek War.

Featuring two six-part Jon Pertwee adventures involving one of the Doctor’s greatest nemeses. Packed with a host of fantastic special features, this four-disc box set contains Frontier in Space and Planet of the Daleks. Frontier in space

When the TARDIS accidentally brings the Doctor and Jo aboard Earth cargo ship C982, they find it under attack. The crew perceive the Doctor, Jo and the attackers as Draconians, whose empire currently rivals Earth’s for control of the galaxy. But the Doctor and Jo see only Ogrons – brutish, simian mercenaries who steal the cargo, including the TARDIS, and head off into space.

The Doctor’s investigations take him to Earth, the Moon and then to Draconia itself. He discovers that the Ogrons are employed by his sworn enemy, the Master, who is attempting to provoke a war between the space empires. The Doctor suspects the scale of the plan is too grand for the Master, but even he is shocked to discover the identity of the far deadlier foe waiting in the wings… Planet of the Daleks

Injured after a shoot-out between his old nemesis the Master and the Ogrons, slaves to the evil Daleks, the Doctor sends a message to the Time Lords, asking them to pilot his TARDIS and follow the Daleks to their new base. After he slips into a coma, it falls to his assistant Jo Grant to explore the planet where the TARDIS finally materialises. She meets a party of Thals and is left in hiding aboard their crashed spaceship while they go to the Doctor’s aid. On his recovery, the Doctor learns of their mission to destroy a party of Daleks sent here to discover the native Spiridons’ secret of invisibility.

Not only must the Doctor contend with the Daleks’ new scheme, but he must try to stop them unleashing a plague that will exterminate all organic life. When a rescue ship of Thals arrive, they bring with them darker news still – somewhere on Spiridon 12,000 Daleks are waiting to emerge and take what they believe is their rightful place as the Universe’s supreme beings!

For details of the extras, click on the packshot.

Doctor Who: Dalek War is out now on DVD (£24.98).

Merlin Series 1

Set in the mythical city of Camelot, in a time before history began, this magical adaptation of the Arthurian legend follows young Merlin’s enthralling encounters with the young Prince Arthur.

The kingdom of Camelot is a realm of legendary beasts and mysterious peoples. In this dangerous world, magic has been banned by the ruthless tyrant, Uther Pendragon. Merlin, who was born with extraordinary magical powers, is taken as an apprentice to the court physician Gaius and as manservant to the headstrong Prince Arthur. However, with the practice of magic punishable by death, Merlin must take care when and where he uses his talents.

The Great Dragon, who lies imprisoned under the castle, informs Merlin that his gift has a purpose – to aid him in his destiny to protect Prince Arthur, who will one day lead a great and just kingdom. But Merlin has already discovered that following his destiny is not always an easy task.

Whatever the future holds, Merlin, along with Arthur, Morgana and Gwen, face many great dangers and exciting challenges as terrifying beasts and ruthless enemies stalk the kingdom of Camelot…

Merlin Series 1 is out now on DVD (£15.68).

Milton Jones Live Universe Tour Part 1: Earth

Comedian, writer and actor, whose stand-up is full of surrealism, nonsense and sharp wit. Milton Jones style is a quick-fire barrage of one-liners delivered with a goggle-eyed stare. He has performed regularly for Radio 4 and his three series of ‘The Very World Of Milton Jones’ won a Sony Radio Award. He was the winner of the Perrier Best Newcomer Award in 1996, and was subsequently nominated for the main prize. He received the Time Out ‘Best Comedy Performer’ prize in 2003 and has been nominated for the British Comedy Awards. A comedy legend and one of the funniest men in the country.

Milton Jones Live Universe Tour Part 1: Earth is out now on DVD (£14.69).

October 2nd :Tina Turner releases a live CD…

AndDVDfever.co.uk reviewer Elly Robertsenjoys it very much. As he says, “The most famous wig and legs are back, like they’ve never been away.”Find out why for this 41-track release which also includes a DVD of the concert.

Tina Turner Live!is online and out now on CD.

New films at this cinema this weekend…

Stuck for something to do this weekend? The list of films showing atManchester Showcase Cinema can be found on this page, and won’t differmuch from what’s on in the rest of the country.

The new films out include: The Invention of Lying, Spell, Surviving Evil, Pandorum & Driving Aphrodite.

October 1st :New DVD and Blu-ray comps online…

Please enter the competition listed below by clicking on the packshot on the right.

• Fast & Furious on Blu-ray
• An American Werewolf in London on Blu-ray
• Fifty Dead Men Walking on DVD

Note that the Blu-ray comps for Red Dragon (The original version of this film was Manhunter) andHannibal (Julianne Moore took over the role of Clarice) have now finished and the winners have beenpicked and will be notified shortly.

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