Return of the King

Roadshow

– PTE Shannon Joyce

Return of the King Roadshow Director Peter Jackson has ushered in a new age of filmmaking with the release of this DVD box-set.

Not only does this four-disc extended edition of the third movie contain a two-disc documentary complete with all cast interviews, Jackson has had the foresight for the DVD release to have video cameras constantly rolling on-set behind the scenes across the fouryear production.

What has come out of it is a very endearing story in itself aside from the film, of this cast and crew that grew into a family halfway across the world in New Zealand; and proved how film making could be done with real spirit, and more faithfully to an author’s vision than Hollywood would ever afford.

Capturing the Friedmans

Magna Pacific

– LT Simone Heyer

As a result of US-wide hysteria and increased community awareness, Arnold and his son Jesse Friedman are arrested under child molestation and child pornography charges.

This documentary follows life in the Friedman family after the arrests using footage from their home movies, as well as interviews with lawyers, and now-adult children whose families pressed charges.

Many interesting discrepancies in the case and evidence gathering are revealed, resulting in Jesse being released from the charges by the end of the film. While the nature of the crimes committed is very serious, it’s alarming to see how community prejudice can escalate into something huge from something nonexistent.

John Safran vs God

Madman People

– LT Simone Heyer

often get into John Safran things the second time round. His music jamboree series was recently replayed on the ABC following his latest series, John Safran vs God.

The title makes you instantly suspicious – and knowing John Safran is behind it guarantees it will be very controversial and very funny.

In each episode John looks at different religions or denominations – as well as the more unusual organisations like the Ku Klux Klan and Masonic Lodge.

He tries out a few things and is sceptical but fairly impartial.

This two-disc set covers the series as it appeared on SBS as well as the full-length version of ‘a fatwa on Rove’ and other amusing additions.