Film/DVD

DVD Shorts: January 2008

SimpsonsMusic‘The Simpsons Movie: The Music’
Simpsons fans and philes will enjoy this collection of works from Hans Zimmer, the deft composer responsible (with Danny Elfman) of the long running Fox series’ recognizable themes. Almost all of the 15 selections here (available in limited edition, deliciously encased in a plastic donut) are orchestral instrumentals providing background and mood for the film. However, the electronica-flavored “Reckessly Impulsive” bonus track, with its “D’oh” refrain, just might find its way to a late-night alternative dance floor. Twentieth Century Fox (www.simpsonsmovie.com/soundtrack). — Nancy Ford

Amnesia: The James Brighton Enigma
You wake up an amnesiac. The only thing you remember is that you’re gay. Or are you? Inspired by a true story, James wakes up in Montreal, naked, beaten, and unsure of his identity. As his memory returns, he recalls his trip to the Black and Blue when he picked up the intolerant hitchhikers who beat him, but there are more vital elements to his past that he must uncover. FYI: Most of the simple French dialogue in this movie makes an excellent learning aid for beginning French students. • 2005. Co-written and directed by Denis Langlois. French and English with English subtitles. • From TLA Releasing (www.tlareleasing.com). — Preview: Eric A.T. Dieckman

NakedBoysNaked Boys Singing!

Get the best possible seat for a close-up eyeful of exactly what you expect with this musical whose name eliminates all the guesswork. Bouncy, happy tunes like “The Naked Maid” are balanced with honest ballads of trying to hide one’s identity (and erection) in the high school locker room. And yes, the carpet matches the drapes on the redhead. • 2007. Co-directed by Robert Schrock and Troy Christian. • From TLA Releasing (www.tlareleasing.com). — Review: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

Eternal Summer
In this Taiwanese drama, Jonathan and Shane have been friends since childhood. Over the years, Jonathan remains an A-student, Shane a jock. As the two ready for university, Carrie enters as the new girl in school. When Jonathan leaves her flirtations unrequited, she turns to the muscular Shane, causing the two boys to examine their longstanding, dormant feelings for each other. • 2006. Directed by Leste Chen. Mandarin with English, Spanish, and French subtitles. • From Picture This! Home Video (www.picturethisentertainment.com). — Preview: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

BoysLifeBoys Life 6
The lauded, ongoing series of gay shorts continues with another four very well-made short subjects regarding lust, desire, and crushes. In the disturbing “Bug Crush,” a shy high school boy collects his nerve to approach a comely cool kid, only to experiment with a strange paralytic drug to horrifying results. Alternatively, “Davy and Stu” is genuinely heartwarming. • From Strand Releasing (www.strandreleasing.com). — Review: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

Glue
Lucas is the typical 15-year-old. He’s bored, awkward, and horny. Hanging with his friends, the hunky Nacho and the mousy Andrea, the three deal with the fires of adolescence amidst the emptiness of Patagonia, getting high and getting (each other) off. • 2006. Written and directed by Alexis Dos Santos. Spanish with English subtitles. • From Picture This! Home Video (www.picturethisentertainment.com). — Preview: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

GetawaysGay Getaways
Greg Osborne hits some gay hotspots in California. If you’re looking for some tips on where to go in Palm Springs, L.A., or West L.A., you’ll find them, from the gay-owned and -operated restaurant chain Hamburger Mary’s to chic day spas to spectacular nightclubs. It should be noted, however, the low budget of the show leads to two episodes shot almost entirely inside tour buses. • From Ariztical Entertainment (www.ariztical.com). — Review: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

MUSIC on DVD
Scissor Sisters: Hurrah-A Year of Ta-Dah
The New York-based disco house pop band performs a 90-minute live set at London’s 02 arena in front of 20,000 fans. Add to that an hour-long doc following the glamorous band around the globe. Top that with behind-the-scenes footage of the band’s guest spot in the daytime soap, Passions, and the making of their video for “She’s My Man,” directed by Japanese artist Nadi Noga. • From Universal Motown Records (www.umrg.com). — Preview: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

WillandGraceTV on DVD
Will & Grace: Season 7

In its eight years, the show garnered 16 Emmys and showers of praise. Among the celebs to guest star in the seventh year of the enduring, endearing sitcom are Jennifer Lopez, Alec Baldwin, and the out-and-proud Lily Tomlin. And, of course, who can resist the outtakes? • From Lionsgate (www.lionsgateshop.com). — Preview: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist:
The Complete Series
Thirteen discs house all six seasons of Comedy Central’s first hit animated series. Countless comedians seek solace from the timid shrink, whether in the show or in the live extra, “An Evening with Dr. Katz.” Look for Sandra Bernhard, Kathy Griffin, and Katz’ secretary, Laura (Laura Silverman of The Sarah Silverman Program). • From Comedy Central (www.comedycentral.com). — Preview: Eric A.T. Dieckman 

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