This week’s new DVD releases includes a steamy southern tale, a French film based on a real-life incident that took place in the United States, and a documentary that is really more of a celebration of a famed expressionist choreographer.

The Paperboy is going to shock even if you think you’re prepared.  We’re in the steamy
bayou’s of South Florida, it’s 1969 and the heat feels oppressive.  An objectionable low-life called Hillary Van Wetter (John Cusack) is in prison for the murder of a corrupt sheriff, but he might have been framed, we’re never quite sure.  The film’s one saving grace is the
performance of Nicole Kidman as Charlotte who is a standout.  The Australian actor delivers such an authentically convincing portrayal of an American southern woman so noxious you can practically smell her tastelessness oozing off the screen.  Director Lee Daniels, who did such a great job with 2008’s Precious, appears to be working under the illusion that he’s making art when in fact what he’s made is an unsavory mess. You have been warned.

Strange, but true.  In 2008, Gloucester  High School in Massachusetts found itself the center of attention when 18 students were discovered to have formed a pact to become pregnant. French filmmakers, Delphine and Muriel Coulin, have taken this story, transplanted it from the fishing town of Gloucester Harbor to a French coastal town in Brittany and called it 17
Filles (17 Girls).  The film seems over before it’s begun, perhaps because there doesn’t appear to be enough story or conflict to fill a feature length movie, yet, despite this there’s a strange fascination watching the girls band together, discussing their course of action, validating their ignorance and truly believing that what they’re doing is right for them, little knowing how unprepared for life they really are. 

Pina Bausch was a famed German choreographer of modern dance.  Her elaborate style was quite unique, and for those who follow the expressionist style of dance, Pina’s influence was evidently immeasurable.  While the film was in its early development, Pina died unexpectedly.  Production was understandably halted, but Pina’s fellow dancers at the famous Tanztheater Wuppertal in Germany wanted the film to continue in honor of the choreographer’s work, so director Wim Wenders continued and completed the film.  As for the work itself, this is where I openly admit to being a cultural Philistine.  I can’t pretend to enjoy the style or understand it, but many do, and I appreciate that.  Clearly, Wim Wenders has successfully captured the essence of her work.  If expressionist dance is for you, then I’m sure you already know of Pina Bausch; this film is for you, all others steer clear.

Look for more new releases next week.