DVD Pick of the Week for 11/22: King Kong

How could I choose anything else? I have been looking forward to this for a long time. It has been a long time since I've seen the movie, and this seems to be the perfect opportunity. Today marks the release of a completely restored version of the original film, the legendary King Kong.

It's true that the effects and the acting are not up to modern standards, but this film holds a special place in the hearts of film lovers the world round. Who doesn't want to see the giant ape carrying Fay Wray, battling dinosaurs, wrecking trains and climbing tall buildings? I do, for one.

Anyway, there are a couple of different ways you can get the film. All of them include a commentary featuring interviews with Ray Harryhausen and Fay Wray, and feature length documentaries on the the film. One way is a straight-up 2 disk special edition. The second way is in a limited edition tin that also contains a reproduction of the movie program and a collection of poster cards. The final way is the 2 disk edition boxed with Mighty Joe Young and Son of Kong. Whichever way you choose, you will have some great viewing ahead of you!

Also out this week:

• Aeon Flux: The Complete Animated Collection. The complete original series that originally aired on MTV. Just in time for the live action movie coming 12/2.
• Alien vs. Predator: Unrated Director's Cut. Something tells me that this will not make it a better movie.
• Four Dead Batteries. Interesting indie comedy. Low production values, but it is still pretty entertaining.
• Ghost in the Shell: SAC 2nd Gig Vol. 2. The second season marches on!
• The Honeymooners. This is here to warn you off of it. I cannot speak on the quality of the film, although it doesn't look that good, but it is only available in full-screen and has been edited from its original PG-13 to a PG.
• Killswitch Engage: Set This World Ablaze. One of the best new metal acts with their first DVD. Has a live concert as well as their videos.
• The Polar Express. Christmas classic in the making. This is a delightful film for the whole family.
• Radiohead: Astoria London Live. Previously available on VHS, this is the first DVD offering of live Radiohead.
• Samurai Champloo Vol. 6. This is a great series from the creater of Cowboy Bebop.
• Seinfeld Seasons 5 & 6 Gift Set. 2 more seasons of the classic show about nothing. The gift set comes with a mini puffy shirt. Seasons also available seperately.
• Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance. Korean masterpiece of revenge. Great movie.
• War of the Worlds. Big budget blockbuster Spielberg at his finest. This is a great new interpretation of the classic invasion novel.

Hopefully there is something out there for you this week.