Review: This week’s releases confront their fears (Includes first-hand account) – Digital Journal

Amores perros (Blu-ray)In Mexico City, the lives of three strangers a young man mixed up in the gritty underworld of dogfighting (Gael Garca Bernal), a glamorous woman (Goya Toledo) who seems to have it all, and a mysterious assassin (Emilio Echevarra) who is desperate to reconnect with his estranged daughter collide in a tragic twist of fate that forever alters their personal journeys.In 2000, director Alejandro G. Irritu made his feature debut with a film that not only hinted at his talent, but made an irrefutable statement about his future in cinema. Though the film is presented in chapters to some extent, the stories are expertly interwoven so audiences can appreciate their connections and become invested in the characters individual journeys. The freshman picture is an ambitious 154 minutes, but Irritu succeeds in creating a narrative that combines violence and raw emotion in a manner that not only engages audiences, but affects them. The cast is outstanding, portraying their characters ups and downs, bravery and depression. Its a tour de force of powerful storytelling and excellent camerawork that understands when to stay close or move away from the action. Its definitely no surprise Irritu went on to have such a successful career, while the curated bonus features explore his exceptional start.Special features include: deleted scenes with optional commentary by Alejandro G. Irritu and Rodrigo Prieto; conversation between Irritu and filmmaker Pawe Pawlikowski; conversation among Irritu and actors Adriana Barraza, Vanessa Bauche, and Gael Garca Bernal; Perros, amores, accidentes" documentary; interview with composer Gustavo Santaolalla; video essay by film scholar Paul Julian Smith; rehearsal footage with reflections by Irritu; music videos for songs from the films soundtrack by Control Machete, Caf Tacvba, and Julieta Venegas; trailer; and essays by critic Fernanda Solrzano and author Juan Villoro. (Criterion Collection)Audrey (DVD)Actress, humanitarian and recognised as a film and fashion icon, Audrey Hepburn was undoubtedly one of the greatest legends from the Golden Age of Hollywood. This in-depth documentary looks back at the life, loves and career of this enigmatic star.From the outside, Hepburn looked like she had it all: beauty, talent and a lovely family. However, the film begins by describing her less-than-ideal childhood, growing up during war times and being devastated by her fathers departure at an early age. She put most of her efforts into ballet, only acting to pay the bills. But Roman Holiday forever changed her career trajectory. One thing that becomes immediately evident via the archival footage and interviews is Hepburns most attractive quality was her authenticity. She was truly pure of heart and it shone through the screen. The films theme is her lifelong search for love and the eventual satisfaction she gained through her humanitarian work.There are no special features. (Bohemia Media)The Beach House (Blu-ray)Hoping to reignite their relationship, college students Emily (Liana Liberato) and Randall (Noah Le Gros) arrive at their weekend getaway only to discover a peculiar older couple already staying there. They all agree to share the home but, after an indulgent night of partying, theyre awoken to a living nightmare of apocalyptic proportions. A mysterious airborne microbe has infected the water and its making its way to the house.There is a long list of horror pictures that demonstrated less is more when it comes to putting audiences on edge. However, being overly vague about the threat at the narratives core doesnt have the same effect. Following an awkward moment during dinner conversation, very little continues to make sense. A strange glow comes off the water, everyone seems to get a little loopy and very sleepy, and then luminous plants either fill their hallucinations or overtake nearby forests. Gross injuries and misplaced means of escape make getting away difficult, but by then viewers may have lost interest in the characters fates as the actors do little to keep them engaged. There are no special features. (RLJE Films & Shudder)The Craft: Legacy (Blu-ray)

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Review: This week's releases confront their fears (Includes first-hand account) - Digital Journal