Time For Cinephiles To Have Some Fun

By Joe Marvilli

If you know anyone who is a big movie buff, chances are high that they have already had a great fall with the large selection of Oscar-worthy films hitting the big screen. Once they get past all of 2012’s great releases, they will need something to hold them over for the “clearance” months of January through March.

  These gifts are not just for those who like film, though. After all, given the high quality of some of today’s television programs, season or series box sets are getting to be more popular than ever. Here is a selection of the best new movies and TV shows available this holiday.

  (Editor’s Note: Images provided by Amazon.com. Prices are taken from the list price on Amazon.com, and do not necessarily reflect on-sale prices.)


“Bond 50: The Complete 22 Film Collection,” $299.99
It is almost shocking to think that it has been 50 years since James Bond first appeared on movie screens. Now with the 23rd film, “Skyfall,” currently in theaters, there is no better time to look back at all six actors who have filled the role of the British spy. Available on Blu-ray and DVD, this collection includes every film from Sean Connery’s first appearance in “Dr. No” to the second Daniel Craig movie, “Quantum of Solace.” There are also lengthy special features on the entire world of Bond to enjoy, from the cars to the villains and the music.

Downton Abbey Seasons 1 & 2 Limited Edition Set – Original UK Version, $59.99
The wildly popular British TV drama has been a must-watch for drama historians since it hit the air. Now, fans can watch the lives of the Crawley family evolve and unfurl at the beginning of the 20th century with the original, unedited UK versions. The DVD and Blu-ray packages the first two seasons in a lovely box set jam-packed with extras, including the Downton Abbey Christmas Special. Altogether, this five-disc set contains more than 15 hours of the best British entertainment.


Alfred Hitchcock: The Masterpiece Collection, $299.98
The master of suspense now has a masterpiece collection to go with him. Throughout his career, Alfred Hitchcock created some of cinema’s most unforgettable films and moments. Now you can get the thriller fan you know a collection of the director’s works, from the famous (“Rear Window”) to the lesser known (“Saboteur”). Given that “Hitchcock,” a film starring Anthony Hopkins about the making of “Psycho,” just came out in theaters, the timing for this gift could not be better.

Game of Thrones: The Complete First Season (The Collector’s Edition), $99.97
“Game of Thrones” is one of the most-watched programs on HBO and for good reason. Although the regular DVD has been out for some time, this collector’s edition is filled to the brim with bonus features, such as a dragon egg paperweight. The collection also includes the first season in DVD, blu-ray and digital copy. Whether you belong to House Stark, House Lannister or any of the other groups in the series, this edition will get you hooked instantly.

The Dark Knight Trilogy, $52.99
This summer, director Christopher Nolan said goodbye to Batman and the world he created around him with “The Dark Knight Rises.” Just because the trilogy has ended, it does not mean you cannot relieve the experience. Set to be released on Dec. 3, the special edition of the Dark Knight Trilogy on DVD and Blu-ray contains two discs of bonus features, such as a documentary on the Batmobile. A 64-page shortened version of the book “The Art and Making of The Dark Knight Trilogy” is included as well. With such a great gift, the Joker will not be the only person laughing.

  Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, or at jmarvilli@queenstribune.com.