"Be Kind Rewind"

Starring: Jack Black and Mos Def
Directed by Michel Gondry

Plot: Jerry and Mike are two local video store clerks who have to remake their VHS library when all the tapes become magnetized, all the while  trying to save their mom and pop video store from corporate comglamorates.

Extras: Brief making of Featurette and Theatrical Trailer.

Bottom Line: Unfiltered Michel Gondry can fatally rely on visual charm instead of coherent storytelling (see "Science of Sleep"). "Be Kind Rewind" fortunately boasts a pair of infectious performances from Jack Black and Mos Def adding emotional gravity to expected whimsy. The Danny Glover sub plot slows down the proceedings considerably, but with a contagious aura of innocence and wonderment surrounding the main draw of the film (Jack Black and Mos Def remaking famous Hollywood Blockbusters as heavily advertised). "Be Kind Rewind" becomes something rare in today’s market place: A film about the joy and simplicity of movies.  Extras: C- Film: A-


"Fool's Gold"

Starring: Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey

Plot: Treasure hunter McConaughey unwillingly enlists the help of his ex Hudson on his next big adventure.

Extras: N/A

Bottom Line: A mind numbing entry into the barren romantic comedy genre, Fool’s Gold doesn’t come close to the already low standard established by the previous McConaughey and Hudson vehicle "How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days." Awkwardly unfunny and far too long, the only to reason to see "Fool’s Gold" would be for McConaughey’s and Hudson's tans.  Movie: F


"Under The Same Moon"

Plot:  A young boy who happens to be an illegal alien, braves the dangers of the borders in order to find his mother.

Extras: N/A

Bottom Line: A manipulative melodrama that simplistically portrays the current immigration debate. Any sense of character identity is overwhelmed by the films didactic tone and cliché ridden narrative.  Film: C-

Also on DVD today: "Caramel," "Chaos Theory," "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins," "Rails and Ties"