July DVD & Blu-ray Preview

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The best home entertainment goodies released in the UK this month.

By Orlando Parfitt

In the first of our monthly previews of the best home entertainment goodies to hit the UK and Europe, we tackle the biggest DVD/Blu-ray release of the year so far: Watchmen. The title has already been generating controversy due to what is/isn't included in the various international editions of the title, and suffice to say, those of you who don't live in the US won't be happy.

Actual prison breaks are few and far between in the final season of Fox's drama, which wisely abandons the series' original premise and focuses on being a straight-up action series. This time around the former inmates are taking on The Company directly, trying to bring down the sinister organisation by capturing a device known as Scylla. The series reached its peak long ago (probably towards the end of the first season), but there's still fun to be had here providing you don't think about events too hard. A show that finished at the right time.

Clive Own stars in this solid but hardly classic thriller that is memorable for one superb scene - an explosive and wonderfully edited shoot-out at the Guggenheim museum. The rest of the movie is made up of ridiculous plot machinations that severely stretch the audiences' patience.

A nice Blu-ray transfer, plus a shiny metal case, make this re-issue of Highlander live up to its 'Immortal' billing. The film itself is a barmy sci-fi/fantasy classic, with Christopher Lambert playing scotch swordsman Connor Macleod, whose peaceful existence is shattered by the appearance of the dastardly Kurgan.

Formats: Blu-ray Release Date: July 6

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Ang Lee's finest moment finally makes it onto Blu-ray, with the high-def format capturing both the lush, beautiful ancient Chinese vistas, and the amazing martial arts sequences. The fight scenes are stunning, but what really makes Tiger tick is the acting, with the two relationships at the heart of the film beautifully played and - as with all Lee films - given room to breathe through gentle pacing.