DEJA RE-VU
Pop Culture Classics’ Recommended CDs, DVDs and Books
By Paul Freeman


DVDs

"THE TROUBLE WITH YOU"
Yes, Antoine Parent has trouble. He just spent eight years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Upon his release, he's lost. He has fits of uncontrollable rage. His wife can't relate to his jail-altered, darker personality. But Antoine's pain, under the skilled hand of director/co-writer Pierre Salvadori ("Priceless"), becomes the viewer's pleasure.

The witty and inventive French film "The Trouble with You," aka "En Liberte!," proves to be a powerhouse combination of comedy, romance and action. The film is now available on DVD from Kino Lorber.

Police lieutenant Yvonne Santi (Adele Haenel) learns that her late husband, a police captain (Vincent Elbaz) revered locally for his heroics, was actually a bent cop. And he framed Antoine (Pio Marmai) for a jewelry heist. Yvonne becomes obsessed with the notion of discreetly making it up to Antoine, serving as a sort of guardian angel, trying to keep him from self-destruction.

Though she's smitten with a fellow police detective (Damien Bonnard), there's an undeniable romantic spark between Yvonne and Antoine. Meantime, Antoine's wife (Audrey Tatou) still adores him, despite that fact that she's confused and frightened by his new, violent ways. Who will wind up with whom?

Salvadori maintains an infectious energy throughout this entertaining film. Sequences involving an S&M brothel are wonderfully weird and funny. He creates zany hilarity in a variety of settings and ratchets up the excitement with numerous, wild action scenes. The fight sequences in which either Elbaz or Marmaï instigates mayhem are memorable.

The director also elicits uniformly terrific performances from his sparkling cast. Haenel is a delight as she struggles with her guilt and desires, trying to help Antoine while hiding her true identity from him. Marmaï is perfect as the frustrated, wronged ex-con, battling his inner demons. And Tautou, as always, is irresistibly incandescent as the vulnerable, bewildered wife who's attempting to make sense of her relationship with her much changed hubby. There's a very amusing sequence in which she implores Antoine to keep reenacting his return to their cozy home, after years apart, so it can match the way she had imagined it. She wants him to approach the house and knock on the door in a particular manner.

Whether the humor is subtle or quite broad, Salvadori makes it work beautifully. Pick up the DVD, because this is a film you'll enjoy watching repeatedly.

"MIND GAMES"
Beware the hitchhiker! He might be eager to play mind games with you and your family. The new MVD Rewind Special Collector's Edition Blu-ray of the 1989 psychological thriller "Mind Games" will definitely keep your brain engaged.

Dana Lund (Edward Albert, "Galaxy of Terror") and his wife Rita (Shawn Weatherly, "Police Academy 3") are trying to work through the discord in their relationship. They decide to take their 10-year-old son on a therapeutic California road trip in an RV. Things take an unsettling turn, when they pick up a hitchhiker, Eric, (Maxwell Caulfield, "Grease 2"), who is studying abnormal psychology. Initially he charms the family. But he soon preys on their weaknesses, gradually revealing manipulative, controlling and sadistic tendencies. The Lunds must find a way to save themselves from this dangerous stranger.

Director Bob Yari, who produced the Oscar-winning "Crash"), keeps the tension level building. He gets fine performances from his cast, especially Caulfield. The actor started his career playing wholesome heroes, but found a niche portraying disturbed characters, uncovering something wicked beneath the classic good looks.

MVD Rewind always presents great extras and the bonus features on this one include a fascinating, feature-length making-of documentary, as well as an interesting featurette on Yari's career.

"JE T'AIME MOI NON PLUS"
One of the more unusual and intriguing love stories of its time -- or any time, for that matter -- must be Serge Gainsbourg's 1976 controversial, thought-provoking directorial debut "Je T'Aime Moi Non Plus." It's now available on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber.

The visually arresting film, set in a desolate, forbidding area, is filled with striking images, courtesy of Gainsbourg and cinematographer Willy Kurant. Kino's 4K restoration brings out all the vibrancy.

In the barren locale, they focus on their two exceptionally photogenic leads -- Jane Birkin (who was Gainsbourg's significant other for more than a decade) and Joe Dallesandro (who garnered attention in the underground films of Andy Warhol's Factory).

The movie depicts a strange love triangle. Krassny (Dallesandro) and Padovan (Hughes Quester) are gay garbagemen who have a tumultuous relationship. They wander into a seedy, isolated truck stop. There Krassny's gaze turns to the person tending bar. He assumes it's a slim young man. As this individual turns around, Krassny sees that it's a short-haired, tomboyish waitress (Birkin). She has an electrifying, mesmerizing, androgynous sort of appeal. There's an intense, feline quality to her allure. Krassny can't deny the attraction, which is mutual.

When they segue to love-making, Krassny can only take her from behind. Her squeals of pain during anal sex do not diminish their passion for one another. But Padovan's jealous rage becomes a growing threat.

A sensation in fashion and music, as well as film, Birkin enthralls throughout. Dallesandro displays a strong chemistry with her. Gerard Depardieu has a memorable cameo as a local who has a rather unnatural attachment to his horse.

Gainsbourg scored the film, utilizing instrumental versions of several of his hits, including "Je T'Aime Moi Non Plus," the global 1969 smash duet he recorded with Birkin. He also wrote the screenplay, as well as directing. He doesn't shy away from nudity or various forms of sexuality. A daring artist, he suffered the fate of having this debut being denied a wide release initially, then being ravaged by critics. But it has become a cult classic.

The Kino release offers several not-to-be-missed extras, such as an informative audio commentary by Samm Deighan, a recent, candid interview with Dallesandro, and a 2016 Q&A with Birkin and Dallesandro at the Film Society at Lincoln Center.

"SLIDING DOORS" [Collector's Edition]
Life can change in an instant. A seemingly insignificant whim of fate can lead us onto a totally different path.

In this inventive 1998 British romantic comedy, Helen (Gwyneth Paltrow) is having a horrendous day. She is unjustly fired from a misogynistic London PR firm. She runs to catch the subway. Her train's sliding doors are just about to close. Will she make it inside? We see two stories -- one in which she makes it, one where she doesn't.

In one scenario, she is mugged and returns home to find her boyfriend (John Lynch) in bed with his former amour (Jeanne Tripplehorn). In the other, she meets a delightful Scotsman (John Hannah of "Four Weddings and a Funeral") on the train. A bandage on her forehead (in the mugging version) helps viewers keep track of which plot we're watching at any given moment.

Writer-director Peter Howitt manages to keep the alternating storylines equally involving. And he adeptly balances charm, humor and poignance.

Paltrow, at the peak of her acting career, turns in a wonderful performance, making both of the storylines compelling and convincing. And her British accent is impeccable. Hannah is disarming and displays perfect comic timing.

The smartly assembled soundtrack includes tunes by Abra Moore, Aimee Mann, Elton John, Dido, Jamiroquai, Space Monkeys, Dodgy and The Brand New Heavies.

The new Shout Select Blu-ray Collector's Edition of the clever film offers clear picture and rich colors, as well as crisp, clean audio. And the bonus features are worth examining. They include a new audio commentary by Howitt, a feature-length documentary glancing back at the filming, plus a stroll through the London of "Sliding Doors" with the writer-director.

"MOM AND DAD"
Oh, poor old mom and dad. They meant well. Unfortunately, they believed that the best way to keep their offspring innocent was to keep them ignorant. No sex education for them. The result? In this 40s flick, now available on Blu-ray as one of Kino Classics' vintage exploitation film releases, the teen daughter becomes pregnant, which means, of course she also becomes a pariah.

The 1945 melodrama does what mom and dad didn't, illuminating the reproductive process, as well as explaining in painful detail the dangers sex can present. In the middle of the cautionary tale, there's an intermission. In the 40s, that was when a live lecturer presented a sex hygiene lesson. When the movie returns, it's time for some graphic imagery, shocking for the time and still startling. Footage of childbirth was not commonly shown in those days. And close-ups of Caesarian sections are still not a staple of movie theatres. If that doesn't disturb you, the horrors-of-venereal-disease segment should do the trick. After that portion, we finally get to the comparatively upbeat conclusion -- the story of the newly informed and enlightened family.

Once condemned by the National Legion of Decency, "Mom and Dad," directed by William Beaudine and produced by exploitation maestro Kroger Babb, was a huge grosser (literally and figuratively) in the 40s. Several years ago, it was selected by the Library of Congress for National Film Registry preservation, because of it being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

The Kino release pieces together the best possible visual version for this new Blu-ray release. For both it's historical value and camp appeal, "Mom and Dad" must be seen.

Kino's extras include an audio commentary by the author of a book on exploitation films, "Mom and Dad" radio spots with testimonials from audience members whose lives were changed by seeing the movie, sex hygiene book adverts that were shown in drive-in theaters and the WWII military training film "Sex Hygiene," a V.D. S.O.S. directed by John Ford and featuring George "Superman" Reeves!

Kino classics has also made available a double feature of "SEX MADNESS" and "REEFER MADNESS." "Reefer" is a classic 1936 exploitation film in which pushers get high school students hooked on that dreaded drug -- marijuana. The kids' lives plummet into a crazed, nightmarish existence. In this orgasmically over-the-top picture, Dave O'Brien (So funny in the Pete Smith Specialty Shorts of the 40s), is unforgettable as a college dropout dealer who lures in the students and puffs madly on a joint while pounding the piano keys, his eyes bugging out. Oh, the lives ruined! There's a reason they call it "dope," buddy!

"Sex Madness" (aka "Human Wreckage, aka "They Must Be Told," aka "Trial Marriage"), directed by Dwain Esper, introduces us to an innocent woman (Vivian McGill), a small-town beauty contest winner, who arrives in New York, eager to enter the spotlight. Along the way, the movie offers glimpses of wild parties, burlesque houses and even a hint of lesbianism.

Harsh realities lead our protagonist astray and after an alcohol-blurred night, she winds up with syphilis. The film details her terrible travails. Also, to cement its educational function, it shows not-for-the squeamish actual photos of the ravaging effects of the disease. Between this one and "Mom and Dad," you may never want to have sex again.

Both films have been previously released in various ragtag versions, but the quality of the Kino edition is first-rate. The great array of extras on "Reefer Madness"/"Sex Madness") includes radio spots, exploitation flick trailers, a "High on the Range" excerpt from 1924, an abridged version of "Assassin of Youth" and an audio commentary track.

You'll also enjoy another entry in Kino Lorber's "Forbidden Fruit: The Golden Age of the Exploitation Picture" series, a naughty nudist combo of "UNASHAMED: A ROMANCE" and "ELYSIA (VALLEY OF THE NUDE)." The romance in "Unashamed" is of the unrequited variety. Rae Lane (Rae Kidd), a statuesque young woman of mixed race, doesn't realize that she is beautiful. She's in love with her boss and tries to capture his heart at a nudist camp, which he is attending for therapeutic reasons, hoping to reinvigorate himself physically. It looks like her plan is working until he turns his attention to a newly arrive, posh blonde. Kidd manages to imbue the story with some genuine poignancy.

If the nudist colony members get tired of frolicking, volleyball, swimming and archery, there's a resident ventriloquist. Sporting only a pith helmet, he coaxes his scary dummy to sing and spew wisecracks. So despite the nonchalant attitude towards nudity prevalent at the camp, this is not a wood-free zone.

The movie extols the virtues of nudism. It also offers a bit of social commentary in its subtext, touching lightly on racial and class distinctions. Of course, the movie's real raison d'etre is the opportunity to let the camera pan lovingly across numerous attractive nudists. Do they actually have genitalia? We'll never know, because of the discreet posing and the clever shot framing.

"Elysia" prefers to put the cameras on nudists who look more like everyday people. We learn that, harkening back to ancient times, going naked has always worked wonders for both the mind and the body. In the film, there are families sharing the joys of nudism. Ironically, the kiddies seem more ill at ease in this setting than their childlike, playful parents.

As for bonus features, this Kino disc presents a trio of shorts featuring folks short of clothes. "Hollywood Script Girl" is a fun excuse to show off some undraped showgirls. "Nudist-Land" is a more serious look at a nudist colony, extolling the lifestyle. And "Why Nudism" is an amusing comedy that splices in its nudism footage.

Be sure to pick Kino's "Forbidden Fruit" discs. Though some of the productions are overripe, they're historically important and undeniably entertaining. All of these releases are well worth exploring.

"DR. JEKYLL AND SISTER HYDE"
Hammer managed to inject new life into the oft-explored Jekyll and Hyde tale with this ferociously fun horror film. In this version, Jekyll (Ralph Bates), seeking to extend human longevity by creating an "Elixir of Life," uses female hormones from fresh corpses. Testing the potion on himself, he is transformed into a gorgeous, but wildly wicked, menacing and murderous woman -- Sister Hyde (the bewitching Martine Beswick). The two sides battle for dominance -- man versus woman, good versus evil. Will Jekyll or Hyde prevail? You can find out by viewing Scream Factory's new Blu-ray release.

Written by Brian Clemens and directed by Roy Ward Baker, this is one of Hammer's most entertaining and imaginative films. It's genre-bending and gender-bending. It offers suspense, shocks and humor. Outstanding performances by Bates, as the earnest Jekyll, and Beswick, as the sinister Sister Hyde, help to make the movie memorable. It may not be exactly what Robert Louis Stevenson envisioned, but this is a distinctively exhilarating ride.

The Scream Factory disc gives viewers some excellent extras, including two audio commentary tracks, a new interview with Beswick and a featurette, "Ladykiller: Inside Dr. Jekyll and Sister Hyde."

"BLOOD AND SAND"
"The Sheik" might have been Rudolph Valentino's defining role, but 1922's "Blood and Sand," in which he portrays a widely worshipped bullfighter, stands amongst his greatest commercial and critical triumphs. The new Blu-ray release from Kino Classics looks sensational, breathing new life into Valentino's colossally charismatic performance.

This edition of the silent classic was scanned at 4K from a 35mm print. A color tint has been restored, following the instructions in the original continuity script. The striking visuals are complemented by a fine score, performed by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra.

Juan Gillardo (Valentino), a poor boy from a humble village, achieves his dream of becoming the greatest matador in Spain. He marries his childhood sweetheart (the lovely Lila Lee). But soon he succumbs to the seductive powers of Doña Sol (that vampy vixen, Nita Naldi). The guilt of this illicit relationship saps Gillardo's strength and spirit. He doesn't seem to have the same command of the bull ring. And that can be a fatal flaw.

The film, remade as a talkie in 1941 as a Tyrone Power vehicle, presents a sizzling love triangle. The Valentino version, written by June Mathis and directed by Fred Niblo, also makes clear the brutality of this "sport," which makes victims of both men and bulls as blood-lusting crowds cheer.

Valentino is riveting in the role, displaying grace and fire, whether he's dancing, making love or swirling around the arena ring.

Among the extras on the Kino disc is a Will Rogers short subject that spoofs "Blood and Sand." Other bonus features include the original theatrical trailer; an audio commentary by a film historian; a Valentino-themed episode of 70s TV series "The Silent Years," hosted by Orson Welles; and footage from Valentino's mass hysteria-inducing funeral.

"THE ABOMINABLE SNOWMAN OF THE HIMALAYAS"
"The world's most shocking monster!" Or so the trailer trumpets. The Abominable Snowman of the Himalayas may not quite live up to that claim, but this 1957 Hammer picture is an engrossing horror effort, well worth viewing. And now you can view it in a shiny new Blu-ray version, courtesy of Scream Factory. It definitely ranks as one of the best Yeti-related films ever made, though that's not saying much.

Unlike most Yeti sagas, this one is taut and intelligent. Peter Cushing plays a botanist who joins the expedition of a brash American promoter, played with swagger by Forrest Tucker. He's heading for the Himalayas in search of the Yeti.

Leaving much to the imagination, the film was skillfully directed by the great Val Guest. He keeps suspense brewing, provides the right amount of scares and draws strong performances from Tucker and Cushing. Cinematographer Arthur Grant (who went on to handle the same chores for many Hammer films) helps Guest establish a sort of semi-documentary look, which gives a sense of reality to the fantastical adventure.

As usual with Shout!/Scream Factory, the disc offers special features that actually are special. Among them are a new audio commentary with filmmaker/historian Ted Newsom and "In Search of the Yeti," an interview with author Jonathan Rigby. The "Trailers From Hell" tidbit on this one features commentary by Joe Dante. The theatrical trailer is fun. And you should not miss the "World of Hammer" TV episode starring Cushing.

"HIGH CHAPARRAL - THE FINAL SEASON"
The often under-appreciated "The High Chaparral" was one of TV's finest westerns. Created by David Dortort, who had previously struck gold with "Bonanza," the series ran from 1967-1971. Its theme music was written by David Rose, who had scored "Bonanza."

Shout! Factory has completed its DVD releases of "The High Chaparral," recently making available the fourth and final season. The top-notch regular cast, great guest stars and well-written scripts made the show consistently compelling.

Set in the 1870s, in the unforgiving Arizona territory, the show (whose exteriors were shot primarily just outside of Tucson) depicted the struggles and adventures on the ranch called "The High Chaparral," owned by rugged "Big John" Cannon (Leif Erickson). He married a beautiful, younger Mexican woman (Linda Cristal), the daughter of a powerful, neighboring rancher (Frank Silvera). Her brother (Henry Darrow) came to live at High Chaparral. Helping John handle the many challenges, including the Apaches, is his tough brother, Buck Cannon (Cameron Mitchell).

There were a number of changes in the shortened, 17-episode fourth and final season. Mark Slade, who played John Cannon's brooding, James Dean-like son, Blue, for the first three seasons, is nowhere to be seen. And strangely, his disappearance is never mentioned. It's as though he never existed. Silvera, so entertaining in portraying John's father-in-law, passed away during the making of the fourth season. So he doesn't appear in all of these episodes.

To take up the slack, some of the supporting characters had their roles beefed up a bit, notably Don Collier, who plays the foreman. A new character is also introduced, "Wind," played by Rudy Ramos. Meant to fill the teen idol void left by Slade, his character never really clicked.

There are some excellent episodes in the fourth season, however. One of the best is the tremendously tense "It Takes A Smart Man," which features an unnerving villainous turn by Richard Bradford ("Man in a Suitcase") as a deadly gunslinger who extorts money from John.

Other guest stars during this season include William Cannon, Bruce Dern, Noah Beery Jr., Scott Brady, Alejandro Rey, Albert Salmi, Barry Sullivan, Harold Gould, Monte Markham, Robert Loggia, Edmond O'Brien, Joe Don Baker, Nehemiah Persoff, Morgan Woodward, Gary Busey and Gilbert Roland.

The regulars are outstanding throughout -- the commanding Erickson, the intense Mitchell, the charismatic Darrow and the magnetic Cristal.

Extras on the Shout discs include commentary tracks by Collier and Ramos, plus a featurette on producer Kent McCray (who also worked on other iconic shows, such as "Little House on the Prairie"). This four-disc set is a must for any fan of westerns.

"LET'S SCARE JESSICA TO DEATH"
With Scream Factory's new Blu-ray release of "Let's Scare Jessica to Death," it's the perfect time to discover the remarkable acting skills of its sadly unheralded star, Zohra Lampert ("Splendor in the Grass"). The Emmy and Tony winner gives an intense, sympathetic, complex portrayal as Jessica in this spellbinding feature thriller.

The character, following a nervous breakdown, has just been released from an institution. To help her recovery, she and her husband, accompanied by a male friend, move out of the urban cacophony to relax in a serene Connecticut setting. Arriving at their dilapidated farmhouse, they find a young woman living there.

Jessica begins hearing voices and spots a mysterious woman (Gretchen Corbett) beckoning to her, who quickly vanishes. Is this woman alive? Dead? One of the living dead? Jessica is distraught. Is her fragile mind shattering again? Has she encountered something supernatural? Can she mention any of this to her husband without having him believe she's mad?

Director John Hancock ("Baby Blue Marine," "Bang the Drum Slowly"), in his feature film helming debut, does an excellent job of steadily escalating heart-pounding suspense. The atmosphere is eerie throughout. Hancock also co-wrote the screenplay. He benefits from the impressive work of Lampert, who convincingly conveys Jessica's fragility and fear.

The Scream Factory release of this terror trip includes several interesting extras, including a new audio commentary with Hancock and producer Bill Badalato and an interview with composer Orville Stoeber.

"THE POINT"
Though it originally aired as a 1970 ABC TV-movie, "The Point," the brainchild of Harry Nilsson, stands as one of the most original, imaginative and endearing animated films of its era. The new MVD Rewind Collection "Ultimate Edition" Blu-ray maximizes the charm of this piece, which makes a very important point.

Oblio is a boy with a round head. That causes him to be ostracized in the Land of the Point, where everyone and everything boasts a point. These coneheads have no tolerance for anyone who's just a wee bit different. Oblio and his faithful canine friend Arrow are banished to the Pointless Forest. But that's just the beginning of their remarkable journey.

Nilsson's timeless story (screenplay by Norm Lenzer) will delight all ages. His songs enhance the tale and stand on their own as memorable tunes. Among the musical highlights are "Me and My Arrow," "Think About Your Troubles" and "Are You Sleeping."

The Animated and directed by Academy Award Winner Fred Wolf ("Free to Be You and Me," "The Box") the film's style and look are fresh and enchanting. And Ringo Starr's narration is spot-on.

The MVD Ultimate Edition looks fabulous, thanks to a new 2K High Definition transfer. The disc includes brilliant new bonus features, including a conversation with Lenzer and an interview with "Brady Bunch" star Mike Lookinland, who voiced the character of Oblio. There's also a four-part "Making-Of" featurette.

"KANSAS CITY"
Though "Kansas City" doesn't get the attention Robert Altman hits like "Nashville," "McCabe and Mrs. Miller" and "The Player" do, it's an impressive dramatic, visual and musical achievement. It makes powerful statements on race, class and politics. Perhaps it will garner more recognition with the new Arrow Academy Blu-ray release.

A gutsy young woman called Blondie (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who idolizes Jean Harlow, kidnaps a laudanum-addicted society lady (Miranda Richardson) whose husband (Michael Murphy) has political clout. Blondie doesn't want ransom, just the release of her small-time crook husband, Johnny (Dermot Mulroney), who's being held by the nightclub-owning gangster (Harry Belafonte) he double-crossed.

Director/producer Altman grew up in Kansas City and, with his team, does a fantastic job of recreating the looks and sound of the 30s era. The locations, sets and costumes all seem perfectly authentic. And they're especially striking in the Arrow Academy Blu-ray HD transfer. In addition to the original stereo mix, the disc offers a surround sound track -- all the better to savor the amazing jazz soundtrack.

Music plays a huge role in the film. Kansas City, like New Orleans, Chicago and New York, was a major mecca for hot jazz in the 30s. Altman shows a tremendous love and respect for the genre. A bevy of great musicians duplicate the styles of the time. There's an unforgettable cutting contest in the film, between legends Lester Young (Joshua Redman) and Coleman Hawkins (Craig Handy). The music is undoubtedly the film's biggest attraction.

But the cast is also extraordinary. Altman was known as an actor's director and he gets superb performances here. Jennifer Jason Leigh is enthralling as the tough-talking Blondie, whose hard-as-brass exterior masks her vulnerability. Miranda Richardson makes a subtle transition from pliable kewpie doll to a stronger person no longer willing to be a victim. Most surprising is Harry Belafonte, who goes completely against his image, playing a smart criminal whose slickness doesn't conceal his viciousness.

Extras on the Arrow Academy disc include a Robert Altman commentary track and numerous other tasty tidbits.

"MY LIFE IS MURDER"
And who would have thought murder would be so much fun? Lucy Lawless ("Xena: Warrior Princess," "Battlestar Galactica," "Ash vs. Evil Dead," "The X-Files") heads an appealing cast in this thoroughly enjoyable Australian mystery series, now available on Blu-ray and DVD from Acorn Media.

Lawless plays a vibrant, clever woman who has a gift for enforcing the law. She's our heroine, Alexa Crowe, a retired, widowed cop who can't resist the urge to solve a good murder mystery. Once a detective, always a detective.

She's continually asked to help her hunky former colleague (Bernard Curry). An eager police data analyst (Ebony Vagulans) invariably rushes in to assist Alexa, wanting to learn from the master.

Cases involve a male escort; a man who's found shot to death in a chain-locked motel room; a cycling group; a culinary academy; a hit-and-run; a wedding that turns violent; a clairvoyant; cosmetic surgery; Alexa's near-death experience; and her return to a posh, private high school.

The series, which effectively mixes comedy and drama, is a great showcase for Lawless, who deftly handles the snappy dialogue, as well as the action sequences. Numerous engaging guest stars pop up, including Magda Szubanski ("Kath & Kim"), Adrienne Pickering ("Rake") and Nadine Garner ("The Doctor Blake Mysteries").

In the Acorn three-disc set of the first series, in addition to 10 episodes, viewers will also enjoy a behind-the-scenes featurette and amusing animated shorts starring Alexa's cat.

CDs

"BEETLEJUICE - ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST RECORDING"
Could Tim Burton's inspired, colorfully crazed movie hit "Beetlejuice" be adapted into a Broadway musical without losing its special magic? The answer is a resounding "Yes!" That's evident in the Original Broadway Cast Recording.

The songs, performed with verve by a terrific cast, convey the zesty zaniness and deliciously dark humor inherent in this wonderfully weird excursion into the supernatural. The show can now be heard on CD, courtesy of Ghostlight Records. It's already been a hit in its digital streaming format. It's edgy, eccentric and highly entertaining.

These songs, written by Eddie Perfect, are perfect indeed. They aren't just clever, they're laugh-out-loud funny and bursting with energy. Alex Brightman's gruff, gravelly voice fits Beetlejuice and his comic timing is impeccable. He shines on numbers like the lively "The Whole Being Dead' Thing," as well as "Say My Name" and "Invisible."

Sophia Anne Caruso, whose adorable vocals are ideal for the role of Lydia, makes "Dead Mom" not only grotesquely funny, but even a bit touching. That's quite a trick. "Home" provides Caruso with another dazzling moment. Kerry Butler, Leslie Kritzer, Rob McClure and Adam Dannheisser also stand out in the outstanding ensemble.

Fans of the Burton movie will be thrilled that the Broadway show includes dynamic performances of the irresistible, vintage Harry Belafonte classics "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" and "Jump in the Line."

The world the cast creates is brilliantly bizarre, sensationally strange. The cheeky, freaky show, with book by Scott Brown and Anthony King, directed by Alex Timbers, was nominated for eight 2019 Tony Awards. This recording will definitely make you want to experience the show in a theatre, with the eye-popping visuals added. But the music certainly stands on its own. There's macabre fun galore to be savored here!

"THE SOUND OF MUSIC -- ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST RECORDING"
No, the role of Maria in "The Sound of Music" did not originate with Julie Andrews. It was Broadway legend Mary Martin who first brought the indomitable governess to life. Now we can again enjoy her classic performance, courtesy of Craft Recordings' 60th anniversary edition of the Original Broadway Cast Recording on CD and 180-gram vinyl. It has been remastered from the original three-track tape.

Rodgers and Hammerstein (in their final collaboration before Hammerstein's passing) tailored their songs for the force of nature that was Mary Martin. On the new release, you'll find a welcoming warmth to the recordings and to Ms. Martin's voice. There's a joy and vibrancy to her delivery of songs like "Do-Re-Mi." She brings out the cleverness of the lyrics to numbers like "The Lonely Goatherd" and makes "My Favorite Things" a sweet experience. Her rendition of the title tune, "The Sound of Music," is genuinely moving.

Theo Bikel (portraying Captain von Trapp) and Kurt Kasznar (Max) have fine moments in support. Bikel and Martin share a lovely duet on "An Ordinary Couple" and join the enthusiastic children on "Edelweiss." Ingenue Lauri Peters joins Martin for "Sixteen Going on Seventeen." Patricia Neway brings an operatic splendor to "Climb Ev'ry Mountain."

This recording offers songs not included in the film's soundtrack. The Broadway version, which opened in 1959, stands as an uplifting and historic example of musical theatre at its best. And the newly remastered version stirs a renewed freshness and vibrancy.

SINNE EEG - "WE'VE JUST BEGUN"
Danish jazz vocalist/composer Sinne Eeg has released a new album and, as usual, she dazzles. In an instant, she can go from power mode to the subtlest, most nuanced of tones. She displays the inventiveness of a Cleo Laine, as well as the silkiness of a Nancy Wilson. Eeg can dance gracefully up and down her generous range, seemingly without effort. There's a naturalness to her impeccable vocals.

This time Eeg is backed by the Danish Radio Big Band and it's a terrific team-up. The songs here sound as if they were part of the Great American Songbook, though several are new numbers written or co-written by Eeg.

Eeg opens with her coolly joyful title track, "We've Just Begun," zestily scatting during the hot climax. She also takes wing with some Ella Fitzgerald-ish scat on "Talking to Myself" and "Comes Love." She glides gracefully over beautifully arranged horns on her composition "Like a Song." The hurt in her lovely, wistful ballad "Those Ordinary Things" will touch listeners.

Even when interpreting a familiar song, such as "My Favorite Things," Eeg approaches it as if it were new, caressing its contours, shaping it to perfectly suit her. Her take on the standard "Detour Ahead," is a moody marvel. "To A New Day," with its positive, resilient attitude, provides the album with a stirring closer.

She's smoothly and softly seductive on her gently rhythmic "Samba Em Comum." Other than the opening of that one, plus one song in Danish, she sings all of the tunes in flawless English.

Flawless -- that describes Sinne Eeg. Whatever she sings, whether she's swinging, swaying, scatting or sensitively reflecting, Eeg serves up sounds that are rich, expressive and satisfying.

TAMI NEILSON - "CHICKABOOM!"
Singer-songwriter-guitarist Tami Neilson deserves to inherit Wanda Jackson's crown as the Queen of Rockabilly. This woman really knows now to rock. There's a sensuous sizzle to her vocals. This cool chick delivers hot tunes on her explosively exciting new album, "Chickaboom."

She wrote or co-wrote all of the songs. And they are unerringly catchy toe-tappers. Neilson includes catchy country tunes in the album and also utilizes R&B flavors to make things extra tasty. The stripped-down instrumentation packs a punch, complementing Neilson's penetrating, powerful voice.

On the riveting pop-soul bluesy ballad "You Were Mine," she displays a Shirley Bassey-like forcefulness, but with more of an edge. Neilson's vivid vocal soars over reverb-drenched guitars on "16 Miles of Chain." "Sister Mavis" has a hand-clapping gospel fervor. "Any Fool with a Heart" has an early 60s charm. Among the other exceptional numbers are "Call Your Mama" and the rhythmic, impossibly infectious "Queenie, Queenie."

Born in Canada, Neilson grew up touring with her family's band. She moved to New Zealand, where she earned stardom. Global attention is overdue.

"THE CHRIS WHITE EXPERIENCE VOLUME THREE"
Chris White, bassist, vocalist and songwriter with The Zombies in the 60s, went on to create a wealth of great music in the ensuing years. He co-wrote and co-produced "Hold Your Head Up" for Argent.

Many of White's gems were unreleased, but the collections released under the name "The Chris White Experience" have remedied that oversight. They spotlight his work as songwriter and producer. Volume Three was recently released and its filled with great musical moments, spanning rock, pop and R&B, performed by various artists.

The songs go back as far as the late 60s. Zombies buffs won't want to miss out on "Unhappy Girl," a captivating number featuring a Colin Blunstone lead vocal and swirling Rod Argent organ. "Celebration" by Sparrow rides on glorious harmonies. "Your Heart Is Mine" is a power ballad fueled by a soulful vocal by Maggie Ryder (who has provided backing vocals for Queen and The Eurythmics). White himself performs another of the top tracks, the gently alluring "Today More Than Ever." Bianca Kinane's soul-searing vocal helps make "Would You?" memorable. The collection moves right up to present day, with 2019's "Can't Seem to Fall in Love," by Et Tu Brucé, a band that has opened for The Zombies on tour.

Discover this newly released array of treasures, another impressive chunk of Chris White's legacy.

BOOKS

STILL HERE - THE MADCAP, NERVY, SINGULAR LIFE OF ELAINE STRITCH
By Alexandra Jacobs (Farrar, Straus & Giroux]
Elaine Stritch was one of the Broadway scene's greatest characters. The feisty, larger-then-life singer-actress has her colorful story beautifully told in a new biography by Alexandra Jacobs.

The book details her life on and off the stage -- the disappointments, triumphs and tragedies. It delves into her troubled romances and the trauma of losing her husband to brain cancer. It doesn't shy away from her love affair with booze. The performer with the biting wit was known for her candor and humor. Readers will discover the insecurities beneath Stritch's endearing bravado.

Stritch, who died in 2014 at age 89, made her Broadway debut in 1946. There were terrible struggles, trying to land the right role in the right show. Her stage hits included William Inge's "Bus Stop," Noel Coward's "Sail Away," a revival of Edward Albee's "A Delicate Balance" and the Stephen Sondheim musical "Company." In that one, Stritch sang "The Ladies Who Lunch," which became her signature tune.

Having been nominated for Tony Awards for all four of those notable productions, she finally won one late in life, for her 2002 one-woman show, "Elaine Stritch at Liberty." She also won Emmys, one for a guest shot on "Law and Order" and another for her recurring role as Alec Baldwin's mother on "30 Rock."

In the well researched book, Jacobs paints an engaging portrait of a one-of-a-kind star. Whether on Broadway, film, TV or the cabaret stage, Stritch earned adoration from audiences. This biography gives us a better understanding of why she needed that love.

BROTHER & SISTER: A MEMOIR
By Diane Keaton [Knopf]
Diane Keaton's latest book is deeply moving memoir focusing on her complex relationship with her younger brother, Randy Hall [Diane uses her mother's maiden name, Keaton]. As she was a piecing together the book, he was suffering from dementia and Parkinson's. Seeking to clarify their hazy history, Keaton turned to the myriad of family photographs, letters and journals her mother had saved. It was like trying to solve a mystery.

Though they started out with some similarities as children, as they grew, Diane and Randy (two of four siblings) found their connection dissolving. He was difficult to understand, even at a young age.

Diane earned acclaim for her multitude of artistic endeavors. Randy failed at his own creative pursuits and tumbled into more pronounced mental illness, as well as alcoholism and a disturbingly solitary existence. The two became estranged. Through the researching and writing of this memoir, Keaton sought to get to know Randy. She found clues in his poetry. Numerous excerpts are included in the book.

Keaton obviously feels guilt at not having been, over the years, more attentive to her troubled brother. She expresses her hope that now, even as they approach their final chapters, she can be a better sister to him.

The uncompromising book is poignant and perceptive. Keaton illuminates not only her personal story, but the nature of sibling relationships and the challenges, specifically, of dealing with a mentally ill loved one.

HEART OF JUNK
By Luke Geddes [Simon & Schuster]
Is a treasure? Or is it just junk? It all depends on your point of view. This entertaining novel by Luke Geddes gives us a number of fascinating perspectives, as he invites us into the colorful world of collectors.

"Heart of Junk" is set in Wichita, in the Heart of America mall, a collective where eclectic, eccentric dealers peddle antiques and collectibles. Some are in it for the money, but others are simply trying to turn their obsessions into a way to eke out a living.

Geddes has created a wondrous spectrum of characters, displaying their quirks and flaws, but also engendering our sympathy for them. They are offbeat, but always believable. There's a bickering gay couple sniffing out rare rock records; a Barbie fanatic who hears her dolls' voices and follows their advice; a haughty, troubled older woman who regards with disdain anyone selling collectibles, rather than true antiques; a strange postcard dealer who's having a hard time coping with the loss of his wife; and the mall owner, who's struggling to maintain a relationship with his teen daughter and watching his business slowly sink into oblivion, thanks to the changing landscape in an internet-dominated world.

His one hope is the pending arrival of the hosts of a touring, antiques-related reality show. Perhaps if they spotlight the mall, the business will be saved. But when a local child beauty pageant contestant is kidnapped, it casts a pall and puts the TV appearance in jeopardy.

Even though he journeys into dark territory, Geddes manages to keep the novel funny, as well as poignant. He understands his characters' sadness, loneliness and desperation, as well as their hollow hopes and fading dreams. He knows their buried secrets. He also captures the excitement a compulsive collector feels when uncovering an item they've long been seeking, whether it's a toy or a rare glass object.

Geddes provides an absorbing look at this specific little world, while offering insights into our wider culture. Because his characters ring so true, as do their thoughts, emotions and dialogue, there's a universality to "Heart of Junk."