New to DVD & Blu-Ray - Week of 11/25/2012

When a major tectonic shift threatens to raise the sea levels--and ensure disastrous floods of biblical forces--the American military races to prepare a modern-day ark as the only means of preserving the DNA of animal species, and the lives of the 50,000 chosen to board. Apocalyptic actioner stars Alex Carter, Monica Keena, Emily Sandifer, Mitch Lerner. 90 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1; featurette.

In Pennsylvania, Uncle Jack's Hotel of Horror is a popular destination for those seeking some innocent scares each Halloween season. But when some haunted objects belonging to a psychic are used as props in the attraction, an evil force is unleashed. Now, a popular TV ghost hunter and others who share a tragic past are drawn to the location for a final showdown with pure evil. Corey Feldman, Jill Whelan, Kyle Patrick Brennan star. 92 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1; featurettes; "making of" documentary.

In Pennsylvania, Uncle Jack's Hotel of Horror is a popular destination for those seeking some innocent scares each Halloween season. But when some haunted objects belonging to a psychic are used as props in the attraction, an evil force is unleashed. Now, a popular TV ghost hunter and others who share a tragic past are drawn to the location for a final showdown with pure evil. Corey Feldman, Jill Whelan, Kyle Patrick Brennan star. 92 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1; featurettes; "making of" documentary.

Mexico City is swathed in a reign of terror, as a fanatic serial killer (Lee Marvin) preys on women...and circumstantial evidence ties a single father musician (Ricardo Montalban) to his latest victim. Can the entertainer's young son (Jose Perez), who witnessed the crime, flush the real murderer from hiding? Tight little thriller co-stars Anne Bancroft. 74 min. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono.

Service comedy-musical follows the misadventures of a trio of young dogfaces (Sal Mineo, Gary Crosby, Barry Coe) whose a capella antics while on KP wind up getting them the chance to show their stuff on a nationally televised talent hour. Songs include "It's the Same Old Army," "36-24-36"; Barbara Eden, Jim Backus, Bob Denver, Terry Moore, Jessie Royce Landis co-star under Raoul Walsh's direction. 93 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo.

All 12 episodes of the second season--including "Resolutions," "Are You There God? It's Me, Jenna," "Another One Bites the Dust," "Pick Me, Choose Me, Love Me," and "The Other Shoe"--are presented in a two-disc set. 4 1/2 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English. **12 episodes on 2 discs. 4 1/2 hrs.**

Includes the episodes "Miami," "London," "Indianapolis," "Atlanta," "New Jersey," "Los Angeles," "Scotland," "Florida," "Vancouver," "NYC Transit," and "Toronto." 4 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English. **11 episodes on 1 disc. 4 hrs.**

In this idiosyncratic road movie set in contemporary Ireland, a father (Nigel O'Neill) makes a desperate bid to help his drug-addicted son by joining the young man's girlfriend (Aoife Duffin) on a cross-country trip to pick up a lamb. Why a lamb? Turns out this lamb is actually a "mule" for drugs, and this duo's attempt to take on the roles of drug traffickers results in some comic and unsettling developments. With Rose Henderson, Shaun Paul McGrath. 83 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo.

This epic animated saga adapted from the popular, long-running manga series launches with the tale of medieval-era mercenary Guts, whose victory in battle brings him alongside an enigmatic new ally, Griffith, who possesses a mysterious amulet. Their alliance seems strong as they nurture the formation of a new army...but Guts begins to hesitate when their ultimate agenda becomes unclear. Stars the voices of Hiroaki Iwanaga, Takahiro Sakurai, and Toa Yukinari. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtracks: Japanese, English.

This epic animated saga adapted from the popular, long-running manga series launches with the tale of medieval-era mercenary Guts, whose victory in battle brings him alongside an enigmatic new ally, Griffith, who possesses a mysterious amulet. Their alliance seems strong as they nurture the formation of a new army...but Guts begins to hesitate when their ultimate agenda becomes unclear. Stars the voices of Hiroaki Iwanaga, Takahiro Sakurai, and Toa Yukinari. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtracks: Japanese, English.

This hard-hitting, fact-based crime thriller follows a determined team of undercover Los Angeles cops as they execute their plan to topple a powerful drug mob. The squad is led by a detective with a thirst for revenge upon the thug boss responsible for crimes against their families--a man who realizes that one mistake could mean violent death. Jack Lucarelli, Dwight Hicks, and Sandra Luesse star. AKA: "Disrupt/Dismantle." 93 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English.

Compton businessman Big Earl's (Keith David) Christmas tree lot is endangered after son Derrick (Omar Gooding)--who divides his time between his dad's operation and producing music--makes some questionable decisions in secret. With the situation spiraling out of control and the family's financial survival now in question, Derrick pins his hopes on some form of divine intervention. Charming holiday offering co-stars Eric Roberts, Porscha Coleman. 90 min. Widescreen; Soundtracks: English Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital stereo; Subtitles: Spanish; photo gallery.

To protest the planned construction of a Marriott hotel on a beach at Carolina, Puerto Rico, environmental activists organized a lengthy live-in on the location of the proposed site...for six years! This engrossing documentary reviews the story of the people living in the Playa Pal Pueblo--the circle of tents serving as their base of operations--and how they outlasted challenges ranging from inclement weather to political pressure. AKA: "Brothers In Arms." 58 min. Soundtrack: English and Spanish; Subtitles: English. In English and Spanish with English subtitles.

Here's a doggone-friendly comedy for the whole family about a veterinarian (Jesse Draper) who comes up with a great plan to save her uncle's struggling dog dancing studio: enter her talented Bichon pooch Pijo in the national championship competition! Unfortunately, Pijo will be up against Chaos, a fleet-pawed rival who has taken the trophy for the last 10 years. Bettina Devin, Patrick Alan Davis, Jane Wiedlin co-star. AKA: "Doggie Boogie--Get Your Grrr On!" 87 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1; photo gallery; theatrical trailer.

In this emotionally intense, gay-themed comedy, Dominican-American New Yorker Elliot (Fabio Costaprado) encounters persistent difficulties in maintaining any romantic relationship over a long period of time. As he edges closer to the possibility of a serious new relationship, flashbacks reveal Elliot as a child (Quentin Araujo), experiencing the influences that may have led to his present-day issues. Elena Goode, Erin Fogel co-star. 92 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English.

James (Jameel Saleem) moves in with girlfriend Kim (Kimelia Weathers) after he is evicted from his apartment--which might sound like a great thing, but they have only been seeing each other for three months. Is it any surprise that he then finds out just how incompatible they are? With nowhere to go, how can James ditch his relationship and keep a roof over his head? Misty Alli, Carlos Javier Castillo co-star in this sassy romantic comedy. 90 min. Soundtrack: English.

Set in post-Katrina New Orleans, this colorful indie drama based on the short story collection "In the Land of What Now" follows a diverse group of residents working to restore vitality to their lives in the wake of the devastating hurricane. Coping with loneliness, stifled creativity, and intermittent power outages, they muster the courage and optimism to reinvent themselves in a region America seems to have forgotten. Becky Stark, Joseph Meissner, and Rachel Dupard star. 84 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo.

Experts featured in the 2011 documentary feature "Forks Over Knives" appear in this follow-up program to offer extended remarks on the issues surrounding a healthful diet based on the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and grains rather than animal-based products and fast food. Included in the discussions are T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. John A. McDougall, and many others. 110 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English.

Two-disc set includes "Going By (Az Kenar-e Ham Migozarim)" and "Pastry Girl (Dokhtar-e Shirini Foroush)."

Mired in bitterness after losing his son in combat overseas, a Midwestern druggist (Don Ameche) receives a visitation from the ghost of his father (Harry Carey), who provides an overview of all their lives to show that none were lived in vain. Morale-lifting Americana co-stars Frances Dee, Ann Rutherford, Cara Williams; look for a 5-year-old Natalie Wood dropping her ice cream in her feature debut. 75 min. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono.

Inspired by the religious text the Book of Enoch, this thrilling horror tale concerns a batch of fallen angels known as the Watchers who have disguised themselves as human. Standing in their way are the Twelve, a mysterious group ordered to destroy them. Thrust into this battle between Heaven and Hell are a group of strangers whose lives are connected by both of the ancient factions. Corbin Bernsen, C. Thomas Howell, Richard Fullerton, Ken Arnold star. 95 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1; theatrical trailer.

Inspired by the religious text the Book of Enoch, this thrilling horror tale concerns a batch of fallen angels known as the Watchers who have disguised themselves as human. Standing in their way are the Twelve, a mysterious group ordered to destroy them. Thrust into this battle between Heaven and Hell are a group of strangers whose lives are connected by both of the ancient factions. Corbin Bernsen, C. Thomas Howell, Richard Fullerton, Ken Arnold star. 95 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1.

The producer of "Deadwood" rolled the dice on this complex, gripping series starring Dustin Hoffman as Chester "Ace" Bernstein, a recently paroled gambler looking to make a big score on California horse racing. Fresh out of prison, Bernstein forges an alliance with his intimidating chauffer Gus (Dennis Farina) and a trainer (John Ortiz) with a stained reputation--and prepares to make the bet of his life. Nick Nolte, Richard Kind, and Kerry Condon co-star. 9 hrs. total. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital 5.1. 9 episodes on 4 discs. 9 hrs.

Designated by CNN as a "Hero of 2011," Kenyan Patricia Sawo turned her struggle with HIV into a crusade to offer sanctuary, nourishment, and education to children orphaned because of the ravages of AIDS on her fellow citizens. This inspiring documentary reveals how a powerful combination of faith and compassion motivated her to life-saving action through her founding of the Discover to Recover Centre in Africa. 60 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English; Subtitles: English.

VH1 went to the city of Capone for this "Mob Wives" spin-off that followed a quintet of women--Renee Fecarotta Russo, Nora Schweihs, Pia Rizza, Christina Scoleri, and Leah DeSimone--with family ties to "the Outfit." <> Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo. 11 episodes on three discs. 7 3/4 hrs.

All 19 episodes from the second season--including "New Year, New War," "Fights and Facials," "If Books Could Kill," "Of Dogs and Men," and the two-part "Reunion"--are collected on five discs. 12 hrs. total. Standard; Soundtrack: English. **19 episodes on 5 discs. 12 hrs.**

Genre: TV

The first 15 episodes from the eighth season--including "The Case Of The Missing Button," "The Case Of The Sleepy Slayer," "The Case Of The Nautical Knot," "The Case Of The Tragic Trophy," and "The Case Of The Frustrated Folksinger"--are featured in a four-disc set. 12 3/4 hrs. total. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono; Subtitles: English (SDH). **15 episodes on 4 discs. 12 3/4 hrs.**

All 14 episodes from the second season--including "Slave to Love," "Ex-Factor," "The Business of Friendship," "All or Nothing," and "Finally"--are collected in a four-disc set. 10 hrs. total. Standard; Soundtrack: English. **14 episodes on 4 discs. 10 hrs.**

In this moody, gay-themed drama from China, a hospital orderly becomes protective of a Westerner brought in due to a disturbing incident of exhibitionism. Spiriting the patient away to his uncle's village after he learns the newly mute young man is about to be committed to an insane asylum, his new protector soon discovers a secret about the troubled man's past that enriches their already intoxicating relationship. Qilun Gao, Jian Jiang, and Yung Yung Yu star. 96 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: Mandarin Dolby Digital 5.1; Subtitles: English; biographies; interview. In Mandarin with English subtitles.

All 20 episodes from season five--including "Search and Rescue," "Ghost in the Machine," "The Prodigal," "Vegas," and "Enemy at the Gate"--are featured in a five-disc set. 14 1/2 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio; Subtitles: English (SDH); audio commentary; deleted scenes; featurettes. **20 episodes on 5 discs. 14 1/2 hrs.**

All 20 episodes from the debut season--including the two-part "Rising," "Poisoning the Well," "The Defiant One," "Letters from Pegasus," and the two-part "The Siege"--have been collected in a five-disc set. 14 1/2 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio; Subtitles: English (SDH); audio commentary; featurettes. **20 episodes on 5 discs. 14 1/2 hrs.**

All 20 episodes from season four--including "Adrift," "The Seer," "Spoils of War," "Trio," and "The Last Man"--have been collected in a five-disc set. 13 3/4 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio; Subtitles: English (SDH); audio commentary; featurettes; deleted scenes; bloopers. **20 episodes on 5 discs. 13 3/4 hrs.**

All 20 episodes from season two--including "The Siege: Part III," "Runner," "Trinity," "The Lost Boys," and "Allies"--are featured in a five-disc set. 14 1/2 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio; Subtitles: English (SDH); audio commentary; featurettes. **20 episodes on 5 discs. 14 1/2 hrs.**

All 20 episodes from season three--including "No Man's Land," "Progeny," "McKay & Mrs. Miller," "The Ark," and "First Strike"--are featured in a five-disc set. 14 1/2 hrs. total. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio; Subtitles: English (SDH); audio commentary; featurettes. **20 episodes on 5 discs. 14 1/2 hrs.**

After moving to Miami, aspiring dancer Emily (Kathryn McCormick) finds herself falling for Sean (Ryan Guzman), the charismatic leader of a dance crew that has been confounding the community with its synchronized flash-mobbing. Will the kids be able to make a stand against the developer (Peter Gallagher) who wants to gentrify their 'hood, especially after it's revealed he's Emily's dad? Fourth entry in the move-busting series co-stars Misha Gabriel, Cleopatra Coleman. 99 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo; audio commentary; featurettes; music videos; deleted scenes; bonus digital copy. Also includes a Blu-ray 3D that requires a 3D television, a 3D Blu-ray player, and special glasses to reproduce the original theatrical experience.

Drawing on the folklore and customs of its homeland, Lucha Libre--Mexico's lively spin on professional wrestling--and its colorful heroes and villains can claim legions of loyal fans throughout Latin America and the United States. This fascinating documentary traces the history of the sport and offers an up-close look at the lives of three masked luchadores: diminutive Mascarita Sagrada and father-son duo Solar and Solar, Jr. 55 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo; Subtitles: Spanish; bonus Spanish-language version.

Celebrating the joys and mysteries of the Catholic faith experience, this Mexican-made animated feature follows the unique stories of three characters able to use faith to sustain themselves through troubling times. While a widow struggles to keep her home, a middle-class father faces the test of his son's terrible illness, and an older woman suffers feelings of a lack of purpose. Stars the voices of JB Blanc, Mari Devon. 69 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English.

Sherwood Anderson's challenging 1919 novel "Winesburg, Ohio" is adapted into this equally intriguing dramatic film about life in a Chicago Heights boarding house during the earliest years of the 20th century. Mythic and intimate in style, the film unveils brief yet affecting vignettes about the building's African-American residents, each confronting their own inner struggles. Andre Truss, Keisha Dyson star. 72 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo.

A rebellious teen with a troubled home life is surprised to receive an anonymous letter praising her in the mail. Encouraged by the mysterious missive's hopeful message, she sets out to locate its writer, a quest that has a powerful impact on all involved. Aley Underwood, Pam Eichner, and Bernie Diamond star in this heartwarming faith-based drama. 86 min. Widescreen; Soundtracks: English Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital stereo; Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese; audio commentary; behind-the-scenes footage; interview; bonus short "The Letter"; music video.

All 12 episodes from the debut season--including "Hello Pressure! I'm Pauly D," "The Ring Toss," "A Little Visit from Our Friends," "Cents and the City," and "PD Was Here"--are collected on two discs. 5 hrs. total. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo. **12 episodes on 2 discs. 5 hrs.**

An intriguing silent actioner from the Selig studio, "Thor, Lord Of The Jungles" stars Kathlyn Williams as a South African rancher's daughter who meets hunter Charles Clary. A smitten Williams travels to America to join the circus Clary's father owns, but she soon gets homesick for Africa and befriends a captured lion named Thor. Also includes "Tarzan Of The Apes." 90 min. total. Standard; Soundtrack: music score. Silent with music score.

Claudette Colbert stars as American author Agnes Newton Keith, who, along with her British husband, was arrested and held in a Japanese prison camp on Borneo during World War II. Powerful true account of their harrowing experiences co-stars Patric Knowles, Florence Desmond, and Sessue Hayakawa as the camp commander. 105 min. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono.

Yanni fans, rejoice! Now you can see the self-taught musical star fulfill a long-held dream to perform at the Castillo San Felipe Del Morro, a 16th-century citadel in Puerto Rico. As the first artist to ever perform at this UNESCO World Heritage location, Yanni rises to the occasion by playing a selection of favorites, including "Truth of Touch," "The Rain Must Fall," "Nightingale," "The End of August," and others. 60 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English.