As we’re already making our way into September, here is the roundup for the month of August. While I only have one Blu-ray to discuss this month, I hope the wide variety of really good movies on DVD will make up for the lack. Enough nonsense, here are the recent and upcoming releases for August (you can also view the video episode of this post at the end of this article):
Blu-rays
Safe – This latest from international action star Jason Statham would appear to be just another Statham-esque movie. The guy does seem to be frequently typecast, but regardless one cannot doubt he is a very entertaining action hero. While the movie may appear to be just another Transporter wannabe, it actually is highly entertaining and a refreshing story to boot. Movies like this must be watched on Blu-ray, of course. Get the Blu-ray from Lionsgate.
DVDs
Get the Gringo – This new action flick starring veteran Mel Gibson is everything you’d want in an action movie. Whether you love or hate Mel Gibson, any fan of actioners has to agree the man makes entertaining ones. There are equal parts comedy, action, and a fairly original story. Read my full review here. Grab the DVD from 20th Century Fox.
Small, Beautifully Moving Parts – This cute, quirky and socially-relevant coming-of-parenthood dramedy is a solid effort from co-directors Annie Howell and Lisa Robinson. It has everything I like in this genre of film: likable characters, a sense of adventure, and an honest and heartfelt vibe with relevant material. The performance of Anna Margaret Hollyman really makes the film worthwhile. Check out the DVD at Film Movement.
Hospitalité – This charming Japanese flick follows a family and how they are put to the test when a strange man and his wife essentially invite themselves to live with them. The story is honest, and the slice of the Japanese household and customs was very interesting to me. However this one fell a little dry for me personally, and I wasn’t in love with the characters. Regardless, one must appreciate such an honest and meaningful film. Check out the DVD at Film Movement.
Beautiful Losers – This is an older flick I recently grabbed due to my new interest in Oscilloscope releases. They put great attention into their releases, from the packaging to the features. This release, about a collective of artists coming out of the same New York studio, isn’t quite as interesting as fellow Oscilloscope release Exit Through the Gift Shop, but is still an enlightening and fun documentary about modern artists. Check out the DVD at Oscilloscope.
Girl in Progress – One look at the cover of this mother-daughter drama starring Eva Mendes, and one might write it off as just another sappy family drama. That’s a huge mistake with this one however, as I found myself very much enjoying the film. The film is actually surprisingly edgy, which mostly comes from the daughter character played by Cierra Ramirez. The movie really had a creative and funny yet real and emotional story. Check out the DVD at Lionsgate.
