Capsule reviews of the next week’s video releases, on DVD and Blu-ray, including special features.
Jan. 12
“The Martian” (PG-13, 134 minutes, Fox): Matt Damon stars in the Ridley Scott-directed adaptation of Andy Weir’s novel about an astronaut who is stranded on Mars. Washington Post critic Ann Hornaday lauded it as “a smart, exhilarating, often disarmingly funny return to classic adventures of yore.” Contains strong profanity, injury images, and brief nudity. Extras include “Signal Acquired: Writing and Direction” featurette; “Occupy Mars: Casting and Costumes” featurette; five theatrical pieces: “Ares III: Farewell,” “The Right Stuff,” “Ares: Our Greatest Adventure,” “Leave Your Mark,” “Bring Him Home”; “Ares III: Refocused”: Seven years after the events of Ares 3, take a deeper look at the true story behind Mark Watney’s daring rescue; gag reel.
“Hotel Transylvania 2” (PG, 89 minutes, Sony): Sequel to the 2012 animated hit “Hotel Tranyslvania” gives Dracula (voiced by Adam Sandler) the dilemma of a half-human grandson. Contains mild rude humor and frightening creatures. Extras include Fifth Harmony music video: “I’m in Love With a Monster”; character sketch gallery; commentary with Adam Sandler, Robert Smigel and Allen Covert; commentary with director Genndy Tartakovsky. Blu-ray adds “Sing Along with Monster Scary-Oke!”; deleted scenes; “Make the Scary, Silly Sounds of Hotel Transylvania 2”; “How to Throw the Ultimate Monster Party”; “How to Draw Your Favorite Characters”; “The New Guys: Meet Vlad, Dennis, Kakie and More!”
Also: “The American Friend” (Wim Wenders’ 1977 noir starring Dennis Hopper and Bruno Ganz), “Army Dog” (family adventure about a war hero, his dog and his estranged daughter), “Memories of the Sword” (Korean martial arts drama).
Television Series: “Duck Dynasty Wedding Special” (John Luke and Mary Kate get married), “Power Rangers Dino Charge: Unleashed.”
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