DVD Releases for January 4, 2011

Time to check out the DVDs hitting the shelves this week of January 4, 2011. First releases from 2011 showcase a great selection of films!

• The Last Exorcism great making-of style narrative film following a preacher looking to debunk exorcism. Amazingly charismatic characters bump this one from good to great. Extras noted a special feature with real accounts of exorcism and interviews with victims - I'd like to check that out!
• Mao's Last Dancer Sensitive and emotional biopic on ballet dancer Li Cunxin, following his live from a very early age training in China through to travelling in the States in the early 80's. Note that both Mao's Last Dancer and The Last Exorcism, made my Perfect List of 2010.
• Baarìa (DVD Review) A charming personal, local and historic feel film set over a grand span of time and people in Bagheria, Italy.
• Machete Crazy explotation style action film starring Danny Trejo.
• Catfish I always love when films come out and people are keen to keep it all spoiler-free, this documentary was one of the few from 2010 where people just wouldn't talk about it beyond saying see it, which I say as well.
• Yellow Handkerchief I'm surprized this drama starring Kristen Stewart, William Hurt, Maria Bello and Eddie Redmayne never hit the big screen here but now you can see it on your screen at home!
• Case 39 One of the only thrillers I missed from 2010 starring Renee Zellweger, Bradley Cooper and Ian McShane. Would like to catch up with that one some time soon.
• Mother and Child drama starring Annette Benning and Samuel L. Jackson which got some mixed reviews, but the favourable ones were really favourable. I want to check this one out.
• Wolvesbayne This would be my wildcard pick this week as it includes a vampire council, amulets and a store that sells esoteric products. Oh, and werewolves.
• Rules IMDb describes as "dark horror-crime underworld storyline and outlandish martial arts action", that's kind of enough for me. Although being inspired by a true story with that description kind of freaks me out.
• Leprechaun 1-4 Set pretty self explanatory.
• Dinner for Schmucks I'm a big fan of Steve Carell but I couldn't really get behind a film that's premise is basically who can invite the biggest loser to dinner. And people wonder why I don't do comedy...