This past summer held a boatload of big box office releases; with films such as Man of Steel and Despicable Me 2, there was something to cater to every audience. In case you missed any of the aforementioned movies, here’s a quick look at what to expect on DVD and Blu-Ray.
Man of Steel
June 14 marked the moment DC Comics fans and average viewers alike were waiting for: the highly anticipated Man of Steel. The film, directed by 300’s Zack Snyder and produced by Batman trilogy alum Christopher Nolan, saw Henry Cavill (Immortals) don the familiar red-and-blue tights of Superman. Other notable cast members include Amy Adams playing reporter Lois Lane, Laurence Fishburne as Daily Planet editor-in-chief Perry White, Russell Crowe as Jor-El, and Michael Shannon as big baddie General Zod. Snyder and Nolan’s take on the Last Son of Krypton explored his origins. The approach taken to tell this particular tale is not unlike Nolan’s recently concluded Batman trilogy; director Snyder and screenwriter David S. Goyer focus on a more grounded, realistic take on Superman and his world. With a large combination of a solid story and central themes, superb acting, and awe-inspiring on-screen brawls, Man of Steel is definitely impressive. Despite some minor gripes – such as questionable plot elements – the movie works for the most part and is certainly worth a watch, whether you’re a comic book fan or just looking for an enjoyable movie. You can bring home Man of Steel on November 12.
Despicable Me 2
Every year, dozens of animated films get released. In the past, many weren’t instant classics (unless they had “Disney” slapped somewhere on the movie poster). However, in recent years, there have been a number of non-Disney flicks that are strong competitors. Despicable Me 2, the sequel to the 2010 smash-hit, is fortunately one such animated film. Gru (Steve Carrell) has abandoned his career as a supervillain and has resorted to taking care of his three daughters, Margot, Edith, and Agnes. However, when a new villain rises to attempt a worldwide takeover, Gru is enlisted in a top-secret crimefighting organization to save the world. Not unlike its predecessor, Despicable Me 2 is humor-filled from start to finish, and is very enjoyable for kids or adults. One of the biggest differences (in a good way) is the fact that the yellow-skinned, pill-shaped minions, whose language is pretty much not comprehendible by humans, get more screen time. These guys are a riot at times to see on-screen, and it makes the movie even better. The plot wasn’t as well-developed nor as original as the first, but what it lacks in complexity it makes up for in execution. It’s a wonderful animated flick and currently the best one this year. Bring home Despicable Me 2 for the holidays on December 14.
