Comics, classics and chronicles
Couch Theater
By DNA SMITH

Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman star in the 1942 classic "Casablanca." The film will finally be released on DVD more than 60 years later.

PICK OF THE WEEK

"Wanted" — In a year overflowing with comic-book movies, "Wanted" stands up as one of the better ones. Starring James McAvoy, Morgan Freeman and the always-sizzling Angelina Jolie, "Wanted" is a action-packed flick about a secret society of assassins who possess the ability to bend the trajectory of bullets. If you're a fan of high-octane action movies, you definitely want this in your video library.

ALSO OUT THIS WEEK

"The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian" — The second installment of the adventures of the Pevensie children in the magical land of Narnia. This chapter in the series has much bigger and more impressive battle scenes, but lacked some of the charm of the first film. Still, it's an enjoyable, wholesome family film and well worth the money.

"Austin Powers Collection: Shagadelic Edition" — This boxed set comes just in time for the holiday gift-buying season. The set contains all three Austin Powers films; hours of special features, including commentary by Mike Myers; dozens of deleted scenes; music videos by Lenny Kravitz, Beyonce and Britney Spears; and much more "mojo.

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CLASSIC FILMS

"Casablanca Ultimate Collector's Edition" (Blu-Ray) — One of the great movies of all time gets the DVD treatment that film buffs deserve. In addition to the 1942 movie, the set includes a 48-page booklet on the film; 10 cards with reproductions of the one-sheet theatrical posters; archival correspondence; a vintage passport and luggage tag; and a bonus disc featuring a documentary on the life of Jack Warner.

"The Day the Earth Stood Still Special Edition" — The other classic film release this week coincides with the theatrical opening of the Keanu Reeves remake of the 1951 film.

Michael Rennie stars as an alien from another planet who comes to Earth to help humanity keep from destroying itself. The DVD includes the shooting script, a discussion of the film's evolution and a look at the folks who are fanatical about collecting sci-fi props from the 1950s.

TV SERIES

"Law & Order: The 6th Year"

"Perry Mason: Season 3, Vol. 2"

"SNL: The Complete 4th Season"

"Metalocalypse" Season 2

"Inuyasha Season" 6

(c) 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.