DVD Pick of the Week: Millions

Part of: DVD Pick of the Week

It would have been to easy to choose Star Wars: Episode III, everybody knows about that release. I am also sure that it will be a fantastic release. Instead, I have chosen a film that probably isn't on your radar, but should be. See? This column not only reminds you of the big releases, but also brings non-major releases to your attention.

This week's pick is Danny Boyle's Millions. This opened earlier this year to little fanfare, but deserved much more. It was Boyle's follow up to his revisionist zombie film 28 Days Later. It was quite the change of pace for Boyle. A family film that has it's heart in the right place and tells a compelling tale.

The story concerns a young boy who comes into possession of a large sum of pounds (this is set in England), just before the switch to the Euro. The boy learns a lot about human nature through decisions made surrounding the money. To help him along the way, he has visions of a variety of saints, each with a message for him.

It is wonderfully written, directed, and acted. A rare treat for the whole family that does not slip into sappiness. This is definitely worth your time.

Other releases this week:

  • Aliens of the Deep. James Cameron's IMAX documentary about life far beneath the sea which is alien to those of us living on the land.
  • Cowboy Bebop Remix 2. The second release of the remastered series. Classic anime, even for non anime fans.
  • Office Space: Special Edition with Flair. Finally, a special edition, with flair no less! Anyone who has ever dwelled in a cube needs to see this.
  • Star Trek: Enterprise: Season 4. The best season of Enterprise, it's a shame it was too little too late.
  • Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. The best of the prequels, and possibly in the top 3.
  • The War of the Worlds: Special Collector's Edition. This is the 1953 version with some features, including Orson Welles' radio broadcast.
  • War of the Worlds: The Complete First Season. Short lived series from the late 1980's. I remember loving this show. Looking forward to seeing it again.
  • WWE Legends: Jake "The Snake" Roberts. Who didn't like Jake? At least before the Crack demon got a hold of him.

That's it for this week.

Draven99's Musings

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Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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Article comments

  • 1 - Tiffany Leigh

    Nov 01, 2005 at 10:44 am

    I'm psyched to see "Millions." It was only around for a couple of weeks so the window of opportunity was short.

    In a related topic, Danny Boyle also has a great soundtrack sense for his films. The soundtrack for "Millions," in addition to Feeder, Muse, and an off-the-beaten-path Clash track (Hitsville U.K.), has a pretty groove called "Nirvana" by El Bosco.

    It sounds Italian, and is definitely Euro. It's sort of sails the seas of cheese BUT it does have a children's choir and a nostalgic Enigma-esque beat and groove. (isn't the movie set in the past?)

    I'm not sure if it's a fantastic track, but I love it, it sounds great cranked loud at a Virgin Megastore, and I bet it sounds fab in the movie, where ever it's used.

  • 2 - Pacze Moj

    Nov 04, 2005 at 4:36 am

    I think Millions drowns in sappiness. I understand the film is from the point of view of a child, but the ending(s) is such mush.

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