What kinds of artists were discovered this year? Don’t miss Art Award Tokyo Marunouchi 2010!
Over the year-end vacation, most people have a lot of chores around the home that must get done, preventing them from traveling to ring in the New Year. Lounging around at home over the holidays is the perfect time to take in movies that you might have missed. Toward that end, this column will navigate you through the list of 2009 movies already out on DVD.
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It’s that time of year when films that played in theaters the first half of the year are going on sale as DVDs. Speaking of movies that graced the silver screen this year, one that jumps to mind is that of the epic Terminator Salvation, which opened in cinemas in June. Portraying the world after Judgment Day, the film was strategically configured so that both hardcore fans of the Terminator series, as well as newcomers, can enjoy the story line. |
On the domestic film front, one work to keep in mind is Crows Zero II, which hit theaters in April. With powerful fight scenes and an edge that flies in the face of more modern yet tamer “herbivore” men, this film is the perfect way to rid yourself of stress. For those who missed it in the theater―or those who need another dose―go grab it on DVD! |
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While Terminator Salvation is set in 2018, Blade Runner is set in the year 2019. Some 30 years have passed since this film first saw the light of day in 1982, and the futuristic and pollution-ridden cities it portrays are still amazing in their authenticity. Subsequent to its initial run, the director’s cut version was released in 1992, followed by the final cut in 2007. The 25th anniversary commemorative DVD contains both the international cut as well as the U.S. cut, making this winter break the perfect time to sit back compare both versions. |
Another film to consider―this one set not in the near future but rather 40 years in the past―is In the Shadow of the Moon. This space film is an apropos way to cap off this year, which saw a number of space milestones, including a rare total solar eclipse in July and the Geminids meteor shower in December. The real voices of the astronauts captured here are infinitely more persuasive than lines penned by any talented screenwriter. Sit down and enjoy this film with the entire family. |
The knowledgeable HMV staff recommend the following: Paco and the Magical Book (2008), a delightful story about adults scrambling to bring to life the world of a storybook; Lars and the Real Girl (2007),
A film and love story about a man who falls for a life-size doll; and Fauteuils d’orchestre (2006), a French film that centers on the community and friendships that blossom in a café.
On a different note, another suggestion for the New Year’s break is Be Kind Rewind (2008). Of course, U.S. comedies can be notoriously hit-or-miss, but this parody-packed work and inventive storyline offers one laugh after another; its unpredictable scenes are sure to keep you in stitches. You can’t go wrong with any of these films, all of which promise to leave you with that satisfied movie-induced glow.
Terminator Salvation
“Even though this is the fourth installment in the series, you can start your enjoyment with this and go backwards! Besides, the hunks in this will have you head over heels for sure!” (Tomoko Niimi, E-Commerce Planning Department)
Slumdog Millionaire
“The value of money pales in the light of true love.”(Akiko Mori, Product Planning Department)
In the Shadow of the Moon
“This is the perfect DVD to close out this International Year of Astronomy.” (Takashi Adachi, E-Commerce Management Department)
Lars and the Real Girl
“Just what you need for an end-of-the-year heartwarming catharsis.” (Ryo Yamauchi, E-Commerce Planning Division)
Crows Zero II
“It’s been a long time since I found a domestic movie this delightfully engaging; something to make me want to walk with my head high, as if I owned the world.” (Keisuke Nakajima, Promotional Merchandise Control Department)
Love Exposure
“Love in full force at the end of the first decade of 2000s.” (Remi Nagasawa, E-Commerce Product and Contents Department)
Paco and the Magical Book
“A fusion of full-scale psychedelic computer graphics and a tear-jerker storyline.” (Kentaro Yuda, E-Commerce Product and Contents Department)
Be Kind Rewind
“Ring in the New Year with a movie-making parody…and try your hand at making your own movie!” (Keiji Nishio, E-Commerce Planning Department)
Blade Runner
“Love and violence rolled into one amazing epic; the futuristic sci-fi work remains spellbinding. (Ayako Moriyama, E-Commerce Planning Department)
Fauteuils d’orchestre
“Just watching this will warm your heart.” (Kumiko Mori, IT Division)
Reporting by：Hiroe Omori
| CATEGORY : Style | TAG : STYLE , about culture |  |
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