New DVD and Blu-Ray Releases to Crave: Go to the Head of the First Class or Set Hanna in Your Sights

By Chris Kavan - 09/06/11 at 10:46 AM CT

After a few rather bland weeks in my opinion, there are finally some new releases that have me excited. I was always more of an action fan, myself anyway.

1) While it may not have been the most popular super hero film of the year, I think it was one of the better executed: X-Men: First Class shows us how Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr met up and ultimately broke apart due to ideological differences. It's the characters that drive this film and while it could have used just a bit more flash, in terms of compelling story and character - you won't find much better coming from comic book origins.

2) A film that has been on my radar for a long time, Hanna also makes its debut. I've been a big fan of Saoirse Ronan ever since Atonement, so when I saw the premise for the film it immediately grabbed my attention. I really wanted to see it in theaters, but the timing never worked out. Needless to say, it's gone to the top of my list of movies to watch.

3) Will Ferrell tries his hand at something a bit more dramatic with Everything Must Go. While still keeping comedy, it takes a more serious turn as Ferrell plays an alcoholic who has lost pretty much everything and is forced out of his house with all his possessions on the lawn. So he does what every man would do: sells everything while wallowing in his own misery. Sounds like kind of a bummer, but it's good to see Ferrell stretch those acting muscles.

On the Blu-Ray front, Tony Montana wants you to say hello to his little friend in high definition with the release of Scarface in a limited edition steelbook. The price is a little high, but the extras are copious - including the 1932 original version of the film and the TV cut (sure to be hilariously censored beyond belief) along with many documentaries and features. Although it's not the Criterion release, Straw Dogs gets an upgrade just before the remake comes out (surprise, surprise). You won't find the dearth of extras, but the film itself is worth it alone. Both a courtroom and war-time drama, The Caine Mutiny supports an all-star cast and a riveting story about the nature of courage in the face of extreme circumstances. Finally, if you're in a reflective mood and don't think it's still too soon, United 93 also makes its Blu-Ray debut. I myself have not watched this one yet, though I think it would be appropriate.

For a breakdown of all the new movies coming out this week, please visit the FilmCrave New DVD Releases and FilmCrave New Blu-Ray Releases pages today.