New DVDs: 4/15/08
by Katrina Hayday Wester
A pig learns the plural of "pie," a man fights off zombies while trying to save the world, and a giant toy store throws a hissy fit: our DVD picks for this week
WordWorld: Rocket to the Moon , NCircle Entertainment, Not Rated, $12.99
This DVD is another example of the great work that is being showcased by WordWorld, a new show on PBS Kids that teaches vocabulary and spelling to toddlers. This DVD features “Pies, Pies, Pies,” where Pig learns that by adding an “s” to pie he can create pies for everyone in WordWorld. “There’s an Ant in Every Giant” is another clever story: When an ant becomes tired of being the smallest, he adds a “Gi” to his name and becomes a “giant.” Our tester families seem to be able to watch this over and over, and the series in general; It’s a valuable staple for anyone with a grandchild 2 years and older.
I Am Legend (Widescreen Single-Disc Edition) , Warner Home Video, Rated PG-13, $15.99
Grandparents, be warned: This movie is not for the faint of heart and definitely not for younger grandchildren (unless you don’t mind staying up with them while they have nightmares). The story is about Robert Neville (Will Smith) and his trusty dog, Sam. These two are the lone survivors (of sorts) in New York City after a virus sweeps through and kills the rest of the population. Neville is determined to stay in Manhattan and find the antidote for the virus. The story that follows is just plain frightening: As if a virus that renders humans extinct doesn’t cause enough creepy-shivers, we later discover that those infected humans have turned into mutant-zombie creatures. They come out only when the sun has gone down, are driven by hunger, and basically act like rabid dogs. That said, we found the PG-13 rating to be fair, but by no means should you watch it just before bed. Make I Am Legend the first part of a double feature, the second film being the dumbest, lighthearted comedy you can find.
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Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (Widescreen Edition) , 20th Century Fox, Rated G, $14.99
In case you missed the theatrical release, you can get the DVD of this incredibly family-friendly movie, which makes it easier for your grandchildren to enjoy multiple screenings. This whimsical movie is to toys what Charlie and The Chocolate Factory was to candy, as we have an ageless toy-shop proprietor, Mr. Magorium, who looks for a successor. The only problem is the toys in his ancient store start “misbehaving” in the face of Magorium’s impending retirement. This is a wacky classic for a wide range of ages.
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