Let me be the first to tell you that the DVD and Video-On-Demand selections for November include a feeble cluster of mediocre options. Therefore, it might be a good idea to check out something from October’s releases instead. Otherwise, here’s my suggestions from all the new titles for the month.
#1. Breaking Bad (The series)
Honestly, there’s nothing to be more thankful for this November than the DVD release of Breaking Bad: The Final Season. I suggest you go out of your way and either start, or resume and then finish, the greatest drama television series of all time. Yes, I’m aware. It’s a bold claim to label something as “the greatest” of its kind, but I believe it whole-heartedly. Vince Gilligan crafted an amazing transformation story, unmatched by anything we’ve ever seen before. Breaking Bad is a pioneer, setting the bar well beyond imaginable heights and doing so on a cable television network. Nope, Breaking Bad never got the HBO or premium channel treatment. It opened the door for a world of possibilities, showing that immaculate writing and creativity far exceeds budget and marketing. So if you want to know my number one recommendation for the month of November, it’s to get your hands on the entire series of Breaking Bad and begin to be transformed. (November 26th)
#2. Clear History
What an easy segue. From the greatest drama show to the man behind the greatest sitcom/comedy, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Larry David’s latest HBO project finds its way to DVD this month. David stars as Nathan, a man who jumped ship on a rising car manufacturer and cost himself billions of dollars. Living under the dark cloud of his decision, he moves to Martha’s Vineyard where he begins a whole new life under the name Rolly. Yet, while thriving with his new identity, Rolly’s former business partner moves to the island and threatens his new existence.Clear History has plenty of laughs and includes a remarkable cast made up of Jon Hamm, Kate Hudson, Danny McBride, Michael Keaton, Liev Schreiber and the list goes on. (November 5th)
#3. I Declare War
One of the most compelling blends of reality and make-believe ever caught on film can be found in the independent film I Declare War. General PK has never lost a game of capture the flag. But on this day, his arch-nemesis Skinner has big plans of his own. Without an adult actor appearing throughout the entire film, I Declare War delivers the ultimate childhood nostalgia. While the feature is clearly imperfect and it comes with its ups-and-downs, the imaginative approach taken by directors Jason Lapeyre and Robert Wilson serves as a formidable foundation for a war movie unlike any other. (November 12th)
Honorable Mention: There are quite a few selections that I haven’t seen, but look forward to catching this month. First up are the indie films Frances Ha and Prince Avalanche (both on 11/12). While I have my complaints about earlier features released by both of their directors, I still have enough of an interest to check them out. One major release that I failed to see during its theatrical run was the comedy We’re the Millers (11/19). Although I’ve heard mixed reviews, it could also be a film worth watching. As far as documentaries go, one of the most buzzed of its kind is the feature Blackfish (11/12). Finally, although I wasn’t a fan of Zack Snyder’s action overdose, Man of Steel (11/12), I’d do a big disservice by failing to mention that it comes to DVD this month.