Relive the dazzle, wonder and fun of The 1964 World’s Fair, an extraordinary documentary narrated by Judd Hirsch that takes a fresh look at the sights and sounds of this once-in-a-lifetime event.

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LENGTH: 60 Minutes
OUR PRICE: $19.95
CATALOG #: 20325
UPC #: 6-4603203259-8
ISBN #: 1-56839-225-7
RELEASE YEAR: 2005
PRODUCER: Connecticut Public Television

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Part futuristic exhibition, part glittery strip mall, the 1964 New York World’s Fair was planned amid the optimism of the late 1950s, but the Fair’s two-year run often mirrored the chaos of the 1960s. The fair was a brawling, costly and altogether chaotic event, but few of the 52 million people who attended noticed. Acclaimed public television producer Rich Hanley draws on the delightful memories of fairgoers who found a hope for the future, an understanding of other cultures, and a delicious Belgian waffle for just a dollar.

So jump in that old station wagon and take a ride back to the 1964 New York World’s Fair!

Reviews

“Actor Judd Hirsch narrates this engaging homage to planner Robert Moses’ almost-failed dream. Combining b/w and color archive footage shot at the fair, along with contemporary interviews with adults who recall their childhood adventures at the fair, this nostalgic blast from the past is sure to trigger fond memories in viewers… sure to be popular. Recommended. Three Stars.” – Video Librarian

“From Michelangelo’s Pieta, which was on loan from the Vatican, to kitschy but dazzling Disney exhibits, the ample archival footage provides a tour, while modern commentators interpret the meaning of this so-called ‘anachronism.’ A fascinating piece of recent history.” – Booklist

“The 1964 World’s Fair took place in New York City. America was in political turmoil over civil rights issues, but the world exhibition went on as scheduled. It featured art, including Michelangelo’s Pieta; thrilling rides, informative exhibits, and food from countries all over the world in the pavilions; and demonstrations of scientific advancements from electricity to nuclear fission. Judd Hirsch hosts this look at the World’s Fair, featuring archival film clips, photographs, and the personal recollections of fairgoers” ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, All Movie Guide

Related Titles:

1. Grange Fair: An American Tradition

Decades after its inception, the drive-in theater stands as one of America’s last great icons.

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LENGTH: 46 Minutes
MSRP PRICE: $24.95
CATALOG #: 20292
UPC #: 6-4603202929-1
ISBN #: 1-56839-217-6
RELEASE YEAR: 2004
PRODUCER: Jon Bokenkamp

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It represents an entire era of culture ranging from the space race to the automobile to the emergence of the teenager. But today, in the age of the multiplex, the drive-in theater is a dinosaur.

With hopes of better understanding the past, filmmaker Jon Bokenkamp (screenwriter, Taking Lives) and his ragtag crew hit the road. Using drive-in theaters as their only map, these four young men travel the backroads of America in search of a simpler time. Talking to those who built and lived the drive-in, they paint an honest depiction of what the outdoor theater was all about.

Enlivened by colorful commentary, After Sunset features notables such as horror film director John Carpenter (Halloween), film critic and satirist John Bloom (aka Joe Bob Briggs) and legendary movie mogul Samuel Z. Arkoff (producer of Beach Blanket Bingo). Whether you’ve never been to a drive-in, still frequent a remaining one, or simply recall those starry nights of popcorn and two-bit love, you’ll find After Sunset to be a unique tribute to one of Americas greatest legends.

Special Features: Audio Commentary by Director Jon Bokenkamp, Photograph Gallery, and Talent Biographies.

Reviews

“A trip to make any boomer who grew up in the back seat…wistful as all get-out.” – Chris Willman, writer for Entertainment Weekly and the LA Times

“…downright inspiring.” – LA Reader

“In 1956, the American landscape boasted some 5,000 drive-ins; today, we have 837. Young filmmaker Jon Bokenkamp interviews John Bloom (a.k.a., drive-in movie critic Joe B”ob Briggs), John Carpenter (whose films, such as Escape From L.A., are tailor-made for the drive-in sensibility), Hollywood movie mogul Samuel Z. Arkoff ( producer of the legendary Beach Blanket Bing, among other drive-in classics), and a host of die-hard drive-in owners across America. …After Sunset does have some wonderful moments… ” – Video Librarian

“Four buddies embark on a whirlwind nostalgia trip to locate drive-in movie theaters. Interviews with theater owners, filmmakers, and others augment the contemporary and vintage footage of outdoor theaters from California and Texas to Nebraska. Despite some haphazard organization, this fast-paced video is a fond remembrance of drive-ins in their heyday.” – Booklist

“Eighty -three percent of the nation’s drive-in theaters have closed in the past 40 years. After Sunset interviews the owners of some of the survivors, none of whom will make much money at it but all of whom seem to enjoy the sense of community their theaters provide. Director John Carpenter, critic Joe Bob Briggs, and author Mike Wallis discuss the nature of the movies shown, along with the ambiance and social dimensions of drive-ins.” – Library Journal

“Directed by Jon Bokenkamp, this documentary is both a celebration of and a eulogy for a fading part of Americana, the unique offshoot of America’s twin love affair with the automobile and movies. Invented in 1933, the drive-in movie theater business mushroomed in the post-World War II era. Bokenkamp and three friends trek across the United States, visiting drive-in theaters and talking to die-hard folks who still run very personalized operations. Highlights include plenty of nostalgia, various oddities, and quaint peculiarities of the surviving and extinct drive-ins, as well as interviews with director John Carpenter, author Michael Wallis, satirical movie columnist Joe Bob Briggs (John Bloom), and producer Samuel Z. Arkoff, who produced such drive-in fare as Beach Blanket Bingo.” ~ Steve Blackburn, All Movie Guide

Related Titles:

1. Drive-In Movie Memories
2. Westinghouse: The Life & Times of An American Icon

The Air Force Thunderbirds have been thrilling audiences since the 1950’s.

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LENGTH: 81 Minutes
OUR PRICE: $24.95
CATALOG #: 20364
UPC #: 6-4603203649-7
ISBN #: 1-56839-301-6
RELEASE YEAR: 2008
PRODUCER: Campbell Media Group & Paul Frederick Productions

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Their awe-inspiring demonstrations are seen by millions of people all over the world. Few however get to witness what it takes behind the scenes to safely execute their dazzling air show.

The demonstrations only last about 45 minutes, but it takes 14 hours of preparation to make that happen. While only six pilots fly in the air show, there are over 120 support members on the team, ranging from aircraft technicians to public affairs personnel. This documentary follows the team for an entire air show season, at home, in Nellis AFB near Las Vegas, and on the road across the United States.

Rarely seen moments include a “patching ceremony”where an enlisted person becomes a member of the team after weeks of study, and the loading and unloading of tons of equipment as the team goes from location to location.

Since the teams’ inception, piloting the red white and blue jets has been the privilege of a select few, all talented, all experienced and all male. But this year is different, for the first time a female pilot has joined the ranks of this elite fellowship and her story is truly inspiring.

Her name is Nicole Malichowski and ever since she was 5 years old and went to an air show with her father, she knew she wanted to be a fighter pilot. In the sixth grade when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, Nicole was corrected in front of the class for saying “a fighter pilot”, since as the teacher pointed out, “there are no female fighter pilots”. While most kids would accept that answer, for Nicole, her blood boiled and it drove her even harder to achieve her goal. Not only did Nicole become a fighter pilot, but has since been selected to become the first female demonstration pilot in the United States. Her story is inspirational to young and old. How did she do it? “Follow your dreams by surrounding yourself with positive people, and achieve excellence in all you do.”

Join her and the entire Thunderbird squadron in this exhilarating and patriotic program to discover what it takes to be a part of America’s Team!

Reviews

“Viewers will see plenty of amazing footage here of the incredible synchronized aerial acrobatics of the six fighter jocks who fly the tight diamond foundation, while also being introduced to the first woman on the squad—Nicole Malachowski—who beat the odds (and takes her position as a role model seriously, personally answering all of her fan mail). Recommended.” Three STARS – Video Librarian

“Climb aboard for the ride of your life.
Well, this is going to be a quick one. In fact you can read the following question and if you answer “yes” then guess what—get this disc. Okay, are you ready? Here goes:

Have you been waiting for a DVD that will give you a behind-the-scenes look into the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird stunt team?

Did you answer “yes” or “you betcha!’ or “hellz yeah”? Great! I have good news for you. America’s Team is the disc you’ve been waiting for. Jam-packed with candid footage, thrilling shots of the airplane pilots doing their thing, cockpit tours and plane walkthroughs and a musical photo montage, this bad boy delivers the content that Thunderbird fans yearn for.

And it’s cheesy.

But whatever, there’s a specific audience for this release and they—you know who you are—will eat it up. The documentary’s main focus is on the first female member of the Thunderbird squad, as she embarks on the season-long tour, grapples with the enormous amount of fan mail, signs autographs of young fans and lauds the opportunity for women to penetrate typically male-dominated enclaves like fighter jet exhibit crews.

Buttressing her story is a boatload of behind-the-scenes stuff including visits to the veterans’ hospital, the inter-team softball game and the hard-core training and tactics these pilots have to nail.

The DVD is actually not too bad, sporting a solid 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer and a decent stereo track. Extras: an F-16 walk-around and cockpit tour and a still gallery.

There you go, that’s your disc. Enjoy.” -DVDVerdict.com

“…is an amazing documentary on DVD of what it takes to be part of the Thunderbirds, members of the U.S. Air Force with the masterful skills to pull off expert airshows.”-Library Bookwatch-Internet Bookwatch

“The spotlight of this production is shown on Major Nicole Malachowski, the first female member of the team. We see her home life (she has a husband and children) and, when describing her fan mail, we realize just how humbled she is to be part of such a team.

While the viewer will certainly find the human side of the Thunderbirds touching, perhaps even inspiring, and the behind the scenes descriptions of operations interesting, the highlights of this production are the sometimes breathtaking flight sequences. Seeing jets moving at close to the speed of sound mere feet apart while performing maneuvers that subject the pilots to six Gs is quite something. When viewed on an LCD screen these scenes alone, which are all too few, make this quite an experience.

The sound is quite good and the accompanying synthesized music score suits the images well, but sometimes overwhelms the excellent narration. The special features consist of a tour of the cockpit and another of the outside of one of the Thunderbird’s F-16 jets.

This excellent production is best suited for public libraries and those collections with a military and/or aviation clientele. Recommended” -Educational Media Reviews Online

Related Titles:

1. Fighter Aces of World War II: Red Star Rising
2. Fighter Aces of World War II: Defending the Realm
3. Fighter Aces of World War II (The Complete Collection)

A comedy about a doctor, who went to film school, 
to make a film about being a doctor.

In this quirky indie feature, a doctor’s search for divine fulfillment is thwarted by unscrupulous agents, reluctant colleagues, an unenthusiastic wife and more. 
Can a busy doctor moonlight as a filmmaker or is Dr. Ravi’s adventure just a midlife 
crisis in the making?

LENGTH:  87 Minutes
GENRE: Comedy
RATING:  PG-13, For Some Rude Humor
MSRP: $9.95
CATALOG #: 20438
UPC #: 6-4603204389-1
ISBN #: 1-56839-338-5
RELEASE YEAR: 2010
PRODUCER: Inecom Entertainment Company
TECHNICAL NOTES: 16 x 9 Anamorphic Widescreen, NTSC,  �Dolby® Digital 2.0 Stereo�, Color, English  with some English Subtitles

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Dr. Ravi & Mr. Hyde Rent or Download to Own from Amazon

Like many men his age, Dr. Ravi finds himself halfway through his life having not yet achieved the greatness he anticipated. Sure, he could buy a sports car or find a hot, young babe to help him through his midlife crisis, but Dr. Ravi yearns for more. His search for divine fulfillment takes him from the halls of a hospital to what he believes is his true calling – directing and producing a true “timeless classic” motion picture. On his journey, he must cope with unscrupulous agents, reluctant colleagues, an unenthusiastic wife and even the Mafia. From the streets of Pittsburgh to the sun-swept shores of South Africa, Dr. Ravi’s search takes him near and far, leading him to realize that it’s not important what he does or how well he does it – as long as he just does something. Can a busy doctor moonlight as a filmmaker or is his comical adventure just a midlife crisis in the making?

Produced, written and directed by Dr. Ravi Godse

Starring: Dr. Ravi Godse, Myron Cope, Dave Crawley, Yvonne Zanos, Panfilo DiCenzo, Patrick Jordan, Olga Segall, Bryan Donohue, Ray Gomez, Kris Kapoor, Meena Nerurkar

Special Features: Three trailers for Dr. Ravi and Mr. Hyde, and for Janson Media titles, Let’s Dance Salsa and Let’s Dance Swing.

Reviews

“Dr. Ravi isn’t your typical mid-life crisis candidate in this mockumentary-style comedy about an overworked, middle-aged doctor.” – The New York Times

“The influence of Woody Allen’s early films on Godse’s movie is unmistakable, complete with a neurotic schlemiel protagonist who directly addresses the camera, a la Annie Hall.” - Ramesh Santanam, Associated Press

“A charming indie comedy with moments of absolute hilarity. Brings to mind such notable efforts as Clerks and Things to Do.” – John Latchem, Home Media Magazine

“The movie is fun to watch. You can see the love and dedication that was put into making it. Hilarious!” – Vyomini Bhatt, East-West Times

“A good-natured comedy filled with medical, situational and pop culture humor in which Godse plays himself as a witty physician who pursues a single-minded dream of making “a timeless, classic” movie.” – Jay Greene, ModernPhysician.com

“Dr. Godse is a funny, charming man.” – Carolyn Scott, Greater Pittsburgh M.D. News

“Writer-director Godse’s wry approach — reminiscent of ’70s-era Woody Allen, complete with direct-to-camera monologues — has flashes of charm and some witty dialogue.” – Bill O’Driscoll, Pittsburgh City Paper

“Dr. Ravi & Mr. Hyde, Dr. Godse’s first feature-length movie, looks great. Most scenes are well lit; colors match; and dialogue is crisply recorded, which is important, since his script is full of jokes, puns and one-liners.” – Len Barcousky, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

“The movie is aimed at wit, with a thought-out, one-line joke or pun in almost every spoken piece of dialogue.”  – Nicole Henninger, The Herald

“Dr. Godse is not only a man of medicine, but also a man with an abundance of humor!” - Gary West, WBVP/WMBA Morning Show

“Godse is an interesting person with many talents.” – Jack Evans, WMBS-CBS Radio

“Ravi is like the Indian Woody Allen.” – The Joey Reynolds Show, WOR Radio

“Godse peppers his film with low-key jokes that work because of their eccentricities. We never feel the movie trying to be hip and quirky, which is exactly why its quirkiness succeeds.” - David Cornelius, DVD Talk

“Ravi has a natural quirky charm. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the film become an underground cult hit among young doctors around the world.” – Dean Giustini, Open Medicine Blog

“Funny and quirky with a solid life lesson. Worth the time.” – Carolyn Scott, AssociatedContent.com

“You really fall in love with the characters, and I found myself actually rooting for Ravi as the movie progressed. Would I recommend it? Yes! It is a lovable tale.” – MidlifeCrisis.com

“Godse scores with the movie’s sardonic asides and ping-pong dialogue exchanges.” – Brent Simon, SharedDarkness.com

“The name of the film was enough to get my curiosity aroused, but it was intriguing to find out that the director, Dr. Ravi Godse, is a doctor moonlighting as a filmmaker – with a quirky sense of humor and a penchant for word play.” – Kavita Chhibber, KavitaChhibber.com

“Ravi has a magnetic personality.” – Eric Renshaw, CurledUpDVD.com

“It’s hard to make people laugh and Ravi has a gift for comedy.” – Movie Addict Headquarters

“There is a quirky element to this film that just makes it enjoyable. Godse manages to pull off some great gags that remind me of the stuff that Abbott and Costello used to do, and the music selected for this flick reminds me of something they might use in a Seinfeld episode – it sucks you in and gets you singing along.” – Luke Franklin, Moviesonline.ca

“Ravi wrote, produced and directed the film showing that he has talent in the medium. He places the fictionalized Dr. Ravi in a series of intentionally humorous and ironic situations armed only with unintentionally sardonic wit delivered in a deadpanned manner. He might have been born in India, but he was heavily influenced by the early work of Woody Allen.” – Wesley Hein, LifeTwo.com

“Worth a watch. Kudos to Godse for a crisp plot and a tight screenplay. At 87 minutes, Dr, Ravi & Mr Hyde is eminently watchable, thanks also to some good editing, which ensures that the scenes follow each other in perfect harmony.” – Toe Knee Unplugged

“Well-developed storyline with some hilarious moments. This comic caper definitely gets you thinking about your achievements in life, or the lack of them!” – Aaina, Bollywoodmantra.com

“Dr. Ravi & Mr. Hyde is enjoyable, fresh, funny, sincere and interesting – better than many other films I have seen. Utterly charming!” – Richard Lanoie, TheSeriousComedySite.com

“You’ll be charmed by Dr. Ravi. This delightful comedy offers simple pleasures not found in most of today’s mainstream releases. We get to know and love the main character (with all his faults); we hear lots of witty dialogue; and we’re reminded how important it is to nurture relationships as we work to achieve our own special “greatness.” – Betty Jo Tucker, ReelTalkReviews.com

Biography, Dr. Ravi Godse

Indian Physician and Filmmaker Dr. Ravi Godse wrote, produced and directed his first movie, Dr. Ravi & Mr. Hyde, a comedy about a doctor in the midst of a midlife crisis, in 2006. He directed his second movie I Am a Schizophrenic and So Am I in 2007, released on DVD by Celebrity Video. His third movie If It Ain’t Broke, Break It, features such recognizable Hollywood stars as Richard Kind (The serious man, Curb your enthusiasm, Spin City, Mad about you), Steve Guttenberg (Three men and a baby, Police Academy, Cocoon) Rondell Sheridan (Cory in the House, That’s so raven) Sabrina Bryan (Cheetah girls, Dancing with the stars) Franco Harris (of Pittsburgh Steelers fame) and Bill Nunn.

“ If it ain’t broke, break it” premiered in the opening night of Three River Film Festival and is currently undergoing theatrical runs in select US cities. Ravi is working on 3 other movies currently called  “ Thursday the 12th” – Horror spoof and political satire, Mahatma Ben Gurion, historical fiction, and 2 Guys 3 Girls and a Mad Professor based on Ravi’s novel by the same name that was fifth best-selling fiction in India. Ravi is a board certified internist in clinical practice in Pittsburgh for past ten years.
Film School: Pittsburgh Filmmakers
Medical schools: University of Bombay
Residency: University of Bombay and Pittsburgh.
Other interests: Ravi writes historical travelogues about exotic places in the world that he has visited, and lectures on the History of Medicine.
He has a motivational speech about the physicians and hobbies that he is pitching to residency programs nationwide, titled Save a life, give a life, get a life.

Dr. Ravi’s most recent movie is Help Me, Help You, starring Richard Kind, Steve Guttenberg, and Sabrina Bryan.

No related Titles.

This one-hour documentary special is a film celebration of America’s greatest icon of youth, freedom and the automobile.

ORDER DIRECT FROM JANSON MEDIA: SPECIAL PRICE $12.50

LENGTH: 80 Minutes
MSRP: $24.95
CATALOG #: 20326
UPC #: 6-4603203269-7
ISBN #: 1-56839-226-5
RELEASE YEAR: 2006
PRODUCER: Don Sanders Marketing
NOTES: Extra Features includes a 20 minute reel of classic concession stand advertisements.

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What began as an auto parts owner’s business venture to make some easy money accidentally became a magical place where romance, fun and a sense of community flourished. This film chronicles the drive-in’s birth and development, its phenomenal popularity with audiences of all ages, its tragic decline, and its inevitable comeback as a classic form of Americana.

Described by Variety as “slick and entertaining,” Drive-In Movie Memories includes photos and footage from the mid-1930s until today, a powerful original music score, and lively interviews with such notables as Leonard Maltin, Barry Corbin, Burton Gilliam, Beverly Garland, Samuel Arkoff, and John Bloom (aka Joe Bob Briggs). Drive-In Movie Memories covers every aspect of the drive-in movie-going experience: early outdoor projection, the marriage of the car and the movie, architects and drive-in construction, sound projection solutions, food trailers and concession stands, families and entertainment, teenagers and passion, church services, celebrity appearances, exploitation films, the effects of television and the VCR, and the drive-in’s decline and comeback.

Drive-In Movie Memories was an Official Selection at both the Chicago International Film Festival and the Telluride Film Festival, and won the Gold Award at the Houston World Fest. During its film festival tour, it played in over 40 festivals across the nation. Drive-In Movie Memories was produced by Don and Susan Sanders, and directed and edited by Kurt Kuenne, who also composed the musical score. The DVD includes such extra features as a twenty-minute reel of nostalgic concession stand advertisements.

Reviews

“I love it! An exceptional documentary.” – Leonard Maltin

“A real blast from the past! I only wish it was twice as long.” – New York Post

“A big, wet cinematic kiss… at once delightful, academic and entertaining.” – Chicago Tribune

“A terrific piece of work.” – NBC’s The Today Show

“A crisp piece of documentary filmmaking – loaded with personality and substance.” – Dallas Morning News

“A terrific film.” – Entertainment Weekly

“This highly entertaining and well-edited documentary provides a detailed account of the history of the drive-in movie theater, from the 1930s to the present day. The film intersperses nostalgic, campy archival footage and photos with entertaining interviews and reminiscences from a variety of notable personalities in the film industry, including well-known film critic…” Educational Media Reviews Online

“A fun, affectionate tribute to a mostly bygone institution that had a huge impact on American pop culture, Kurt Kuenne’s film festival award-winning Drive-In Movies Memories is highly recommended. Three and a half Stars.” – Video Librarian

“What Drive-In Movie Memories has in its favor is a nice historical overview of the venue’s rise and fall. It conveys a good sense of what it was like in its prime, and what made the experience great. The film even ends on a cautiously optimistic note, positing that the venerable drive-in theater may be down, but it is not quite out.” Larry Jakubecz/Celluloid Dreams

“Drive-in Movie Memories is a wonderfully crafted look at the fad from all sides: business, personal, and social. The filmmakers have interviewed the stars, the movie executives, the drive-in owners, and the consumers—and their insights are complemented by some amazing footage of the construction and history of drive-ins from all over the country, covering many decades. Loaded with anecdotes, trivia, and nostalgia, this documentary will appeal to baby boomers and beyond. Highly recommended. ” – School Library Journal

“Drive-in Movie Memories is a loving, if brief, look at the story of this American institution.”

“The film mixes archival footage with interviews from people like critic Leonard Maltin, B-movie actresses Beverly Garland (It Conquered the World) and Celeste Yarnall (The Mechanic), producer Samuel Z. Arkoff, Joe Bob Briggs, and a host of others—some famous, some not—to give us the history of the drive-in, from its dawn in Camden, New Jersey, in the 1930s, to its twilight (as VCRs became popular, multiplexes proliferated, and the value of land boomed), to its small but steady renaissance in the past few years. Along the way, we are treated to facts and figures, tidbits and trivia, and anecdotes and (of course) memories.” -DVDVerdict.com

Related Titles:

1. After Sunset: The Life & Times of the Drive-In Theater
2. 1964 World’s Fair, The

Narrated by Gene Wilder, EXPO – Magic of the White City brings the Chicago World’s Fair to life. Experience the world of 1893 through a cinematic visit to Chicago’s Columbian Exposition.

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LENGTH:  116 Minutes
MSRP: $24.95
CATALOG #: 20404
UPC #: 6-4603204049-4
ISBN #: 1-56839-354-7
RELEASE YEAR: 2010
PRODUCER: Inecom Entertainment Company
TECHNICAL NOTES: Widescreen Version, Enhanced for 16 x 9 TV, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround

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Rent or Download to Own from Amazon – Expo – Magic of the White City

Download from iTunes – Expo: Magic of the White City

Nearly 28 million people visited the Fair. Dubbed the “White City,” it inspired future innovators like Henry Ford and Frank Lloyd Wright, unveiled the Ferris Wheel and Cracker Jack®, and, in many ways, marked the beginning of the 20th century.  Many of the era’s greatest achievements in science, technology and culture were unveiled there. The grounds were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, famous for his design of New York City’s Central Park, and constructed under the supervision of Daniel Burnham.

The Fair was an engineering marvel. On opening day, President Grover Cleveland depressed a golden telegraph key which sent the first courses of electricity throughout the Fair powering fountains, machines, electric railways and thousands of lights. It was the first use of electricity on such a massive scale.

In addition, fairgoers enjoyed the Midway Plaisance where a one-mile boulevard of fun offered camel riding and guilty pleasures such as belly dancing, street fighting and beer drinking. Against the backdrop of 1893’s troubles with workers’ rights, prejudice, discrimination and corruption, the World’s Columbian Exposition cast a brief ray of hope for the future of humanity.

Filmed in spectacular High-Definition, EXPO – Magic of the White City immerses viewers in one of the world’s biggest extravaganzas and one of the most unforgettable events in American history. There will never be another event like it… or will there?

SPECIAL FEATURES:
• Feature-length commentary track with World’s Fair historian, David Cope
• Featurettes: Making the Fair, Art of the Fair, Pictures of the Fair and Storyboards of the Fair
• Commentary tracks on Special Features by director, Mark Bussler and writer, Brian Connelly
• Trailers for Gettysburg and Stories of Valor, Johnstown Flood, Horses of Gettysburg, Winters of War, Shot to Pieces and Civil War Minutes™- Confederate
• Deleted scenes

Reviews

“One of this year’s finest… this one is a must to watch.” – Jamie Clark, Video Business

“A dazzling trip back to another time.” – Bill Diehl, ABC Radio Network

“A handsome account of the famed exposition… narrated by Gene Wilder with the sly understatement for which he’s famous… a solid introduction to what was, at the time, a spectacular international celebration.” – Video Librarian

“…it not only introduces us to a generally unknown moment in American history, but convinces us that without it, life would be completely different. A tasty slice of American history with a high definition transfer that is absolutely aces.” -Mark Keizer, Boxoffice Magazine

“The amount of historical detail narrator Gene Wilder provides in this fascinating two-hour documentary about the six-month 1893 Chicago World’s Fair is almost overwhelming.” – John Stanley, San Francisco Chronicle

“A notable release.” – The Washington Post

“Using a mix of vintage photos, illustrations and actors, illuminates some fascinating facts and trivia surrounding the event.” – Chicago Tribune

“Historically Significant.” – The New York Times

“Director Mark Bussler is really good at what he does and Gene Wilder’s narration made me feel as if I was there. Everyone should have this DVD.” – Rick Kogan, WGN Radio

“One of the year’s finest DVD premiere documentaries, this one is a must-watch.” – Jamie Clark, Video Business

“A high-quality production that features an authoritative script, superb use of archival photographs, contemporary artwork, illustrations, a warm musical score using music of the period and exceedingly smooth photo-animation.” – Andrew Melomet, Home Media Retailing

“Using an abundance of period footage, well-preserved stills and some reenactments, this comprehensive program immerses viewers in the sights and sounds of the spectacular exposition.” – Candace Smith, Booklist

“If you want to catch a glimpse of the grandeur of the Fair, pick up. It’s like having Willy Wonka as your tour guide.” – Will Pfeifer, Rockford Register Star

“With an engrossing narrative, EXPO-Magic of the White City achieves something remarkable – it takes viewers to a place of wonderment that, for all of our modern advances, we cannot return to.” – Brent Simon, Now Playing Magazine

“It seems ironic it took 112 years to meld one of the world’s biggest events in history into a comprehensive visual record. The Fair is captured perfectly… After watching the DVD, this reviewer will search out [Director Mark Bussler's] other works.” – Joanne Zerkel, The Star (Chicago)

“There is a lot packed into this product, and I can recommend every item of it. Breathtaking.”
- Frank Behrens, Eagle Times

“An entertaining “tour” of the Fair enhanced by reenactments of some of the Fair’s seductive high points.” – Roger M. Showley, The San Diego Union-Tribune

“Takes the myriad elements that made the Fair a cultural and sensory spectacle and transports them across time to be rediscovered by today’s generation.” – Meredith Cooke, The Hoya

“The standout of this release is Gene Wilder’s voice… the high quality reproduction will keep you engaged in the story.” – Widescreen Review

“Shot on hi-def video, this good-looking picture features rich audio and an anamorphic picture that allows the super-fine details of the art to really come through.” – Peter Schorn, TheDigitalBits.com

“I thoroughly enjoyed this extremely interesting DVD. It’s a trivia buff’s dream come true.” – Bruce Von Stiers, BVS Reviews

“Gene Wilder is an excellent narrator, and the well-written script explains not only the Expo itself, but its place in the broader time and place of the 1890s.” – John Sunier, Audiophile Audition

“Watching is exhilarating – the photos, the music, the narration can make you feel as if you were in the middle of the Fair instead of at home, in front of a TV set.” – Virginia Soto, Your Guide to Chicago, About.com

“Gene Wilder gives a sense of fun to the more amusing elements, such as the sexy antics on Cairo Street, but also provides dramatics when needed, such as the tragic fire that struck the Fair’s cold storage building.” – DVD Verdict

“A film that makes us feel we’ve actually attended the incredible 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, and it’s great fun.” -Betty Jo Tucker, ReelTalkReviews.com

“Offers the information that volumes of books could only suggest, and presents it all in a visually arresting manner.” – Bill Gibron, DVD Talk

“A stunning reconstruction of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, with the cutting-edge technology used in its production appropriately keeping within the spirit of innovation that the World’s Fair has become known for.” -Muze, Inc.

“It’s hard to think of a more complete World’s Fair experience… except for traveling back in time and visiting it yourself.” – Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid

“Gene Wilder puts a familiar voice to an avalanche of information, which adds historical context and local color through visualizations and archival material.” – Gary Dretzka, Movie City News

“There could not possibly be a better narrator than the original Willy Wonka himself, the great Gene Wilder. One of the most compelling documentaries we have seen in a while and this is such a strong work that if it catches on, it could potentially become an Oscar(R) nominee for Best Documentary.” – Nicholas Sheffo, Fulvuedrive-in.com

“An interesting history lesson because behind the ray of hope for humanity were all the problems we are still dealing with today. Rates a Top of the Hill.” – Devra Z. Hill, DevraZHill.com

“Docu DVD of the Week – for those who have been reading up on the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair via the book by Erik Larson, this Inecom release is what you’ve been seeking.”- Needcoffee.com

“Offers a mesmerizing look at the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 and delivers a surprisingly feature-filled DVD that will appeal to all ages. Highly recommended.” – John Carpenter, DVDReview.com

“A fascinating film with accurate historic research and hours of commentary tracks and featurettes.” – Steve Ramm, In the Groove

“Well-done presentation with a dense, informative script. A wonderful piece of research.” – Marty Mapes, Movie Habit

“Provides a lot of historical information and background on everything responsible behind the success (or failure) of the Fair.” – Ryan Keefer, UpcomingDiscs.com

“The picture quality of this thorough documentary is superb, and the sound effects and music immerse you in the experience of the Fair.” – anonymous review on imdb.com

Production Notes from Producer/Director Mark Bussler

Expo: Magic of the White City is a complete sensory explosion of sight and sound and it was a daunting task to recreate that experience for viewers. Producers Mark and Michael Bussler assembled a massive collection of Chicago World’s Fair materials for the film to illustrate the immense nature of the Fair and all that happened during the event. Director Mark Bussler spent much of the production time telling the story with thousands of period photographs, paintings and illustrations. “Viewers are literally immersed in the Fair. After the film they have no doubt that they have been there. Audiences have walked the 700 acres of the Fair, partied on the Midway and eaten at the cafés. They’ve taken a ride on the Ferris Wheel and watched the ‘Tower of Lights’ illuminate the Fair at night. Viewers know the layout, understand why the Fair existed and really want to go back. Basically, watching Expo: The Magic of the White City offers everyone a good time at the biggest party in the world. That’s what this film is about,” said Mark Bussler.

Not only was the picture editing and visual recording process sizable, but the sound work was also a major part of the production. “Audio is always as important if not more important than the video, and I take that very seriously,” said Mark Bussler. “We recorded both antique and live sounds to bring viewers into the scene of the Fair. The film provides audiences with the feeling of encompassment by thousands of people and music from all over the world. Period instruments like roller organs and Edison wax cylinder phonographs were mixed with modern computers and synthesizers to create an audible experience for the documentary.” �

Related Titles:

1. Theodore Roosevelt: A Cowboy’s Ride to the White House
2. 1964 World’s Fair, The
3. Grange Fair: An American Tradition

The Grange Fair: An American Tradition captures a vanishing piece of Americana – one of the last remaining agricultural encampment Grange fairs in the country.

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LENGTH:  86 Minutes
MSRP: $9.95
CATALOG #: 20409
UPC #: 6-4603204099-9
ISBN #: 1-56839-359-8
RELEASE YEAR: 2010
PRODUCER: The Pennsylvania State University
TECHNICAL NOTES: 16 x 9 Anamorphic Widescreen, �Stereo�, Color, English Subtitles

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The Grange Fair – An American Tradition Rent or Download to Own from Amazon

For much of the last century, Grange fairs were an important part of rural life, an opportunity for isolated farm families to gather to exchange information, showcase livestock and socialize. In addition to possessing some of the trappings of a conventional county fair — agricultural vendors, livestock and produce competitions, food, rides and live performances — the Centre County Grange Fair in Pennsylvania, featured in the Emmy award-winning film, operates likes a small city. It boasts almost a thousand highly coveted residential tents and a fleet of 1,300 recreational vehicles housing thousands of families. Thousands more attend to join family reunions, enjoy the midway and watch competitions.

For many participants, the fair and its competitions mark the culmination of months of work raising animals, growing produce, cooking and baking. Produced by Penn State Public Broadcasting and airing nationwide on public television, The Grange Fair – An American Tradition reveals the drama of those final nail-biting moments in which a year of work goes before the judges along with the personal triumphs and disappointments of those who participate in this unique American phenomena.

Chapter List

1. DiSalvo’s Station Restaurant ( Latrobe, Westmoreland Country)
2. The Frame Station & Gallery ( Berwyn, Chester County)
3. The Public Library (California, Washington County)
4. Shoeyville (Shoemakersville, Berks County)
5. Chestnut Ridge Station (Palmerton, Carbon County)
6. East Mahanoy Junction (Barnesville, Schuylkill County)
7. The Station Restaurant (Tarrentum, Allegheny County)
8. Union Street Station ( Pottsville, Schuylkill County)
9. Youghiogheny Glass (Connellsville, Fayette County)
10. Stoneboro Station (Clarks Mills, Mercer County)
11. Historical Museum (Beaver, Beaver County)
12. Seiple Station (Sunbury, Northumberland County)
13. Woodring Station (Sunbury, Northumberland County)
14. Columbia Station (Phoenixville, Chester County)
15. Tourist & Promotion Agency (Washington, Washington County)
16. The Pennsylvanian Apartments (Pittsburgh, Allegheny County)

Download the sell-sheet here.

Reviews

“Joe Myers’ documentary focuses on an agricultural exhibition that began in Centre, PA, in 1874 and continues to lure thousands of people who temporarily transform the rural landscape into a miniature city for the annual festival. Says Dairy Princess Ashley Bird, “People just think it’s a regular fair, but as we all know, it’s not,” a sentiment expressed by everyone from child chicken farmers to nonagenarian needle-workers. Among those who look forward to the event all year long are 4-H Club member C.J. Zimmerman and baker Ruth Wolf, the latter attending since 1916, the year of her birth (Ruth’s specialty is black walnut cookies). Myers follows some of the featured subjects for several months as they prepare for the big event—growing crops, raising animals, canning, and doing handiwork. The fair’s enticements include competitions, dances, tractor pulls, food, rides, agricultural vendors, and live performances, with most of the visitors and participants coming from small towns in the area (although Wolf travels from Reston, VA). Most of the arriving campers bring cars and trucks bursting with full-size furnishings to make their temporary living quarters as homey as possible (a tent-decorating contest may also be a motivating factor). A poignant and affectionate documentary capturing a fading piece of Americana—the encampment fair—The Grange Fair also nicely pays tribute to another endangered species: the small farmer. Recommended”- Video Librarian

Related Titles:

1. 1964 World’s Fair, The
2. Pennsylvania Train Stations – Restored and Revitalized
3. Great American West, The

THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST tells the story of the settlement of the United States’ western frontier.

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LENGTH: 41 Minutes – Total Content: 49 Minutes
MSRP: $19.95
CATALOG#: 20400
UPC#: 6-4603204009-8
ISBN#: 1-56839-350-4
RELEASE YEAR: 2010
PRODUCER: John Q. Hammons Film Entertainment
TECHNICAL NOTES: Widescreen 16×9, Dolby® Digital 2.0 Stereo, NTSC.

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Using the stories and words taken from diaries and letters of real people, this film not only showcases the astonishingly beautiful scenery of the American West, but also dramatizes the true and often heart-wrenching stories of those who risked everything to explore and settle it. This film chronicles the major events that contributed to the settlement of the western frontier, beginning in France as Napoleon Bonaparte grants President Thomas Jefferson that vast tract of wilderness beyond the Mississippi River known as the Louisiana Purchase, and ending in 1890 when the U.S. Census Bureau declared that there was no more frontier; it had been settled.

Filmed for release in IMAX® and other Giant Screen theaters

Narrated by Jason Robards

Extra Feature: Included on the DVD is an extra feature called “Painters of the American West.” This Picture Gallery features over three dozen evocative Western paintings by such renowned artists as Frederic Remington, Karl Bodmer, N.C. Wyeth, George Catlin and Albert Bierstadt.

Reviews

“This big screen production gives the viewer a very broad sweep of the American West beginning with Napoleon’s sale of France’s Louisiana Territory to the late 19th century. The shots are big and beautiful… it certainly does look beautiful with Robards’ skilled narration being a plus. Those with BIG TVs will appreciate the views. An added bonus is a short picture show, with musical accompaniment but no narration, of paintings by such famous artists as Bierstadt, Catlin, Remington, and N.C. Wyeth.” Recommended -Educational Media Reviews Online

“Originally filmed for release in IMAX theaters, The Great American West is the extraordinary true saga of the settling of America’s western frontier. Panoramic Western scenery is combined with a historical chronicle of the major events in the taming of the West – from the Louisiana Purchase to the Census Bureau’s determination in 1890 that there was no more frontier to settle. Smoothly narrated by Jason Robards, The Great American West is a captivating tribute to the labor of those who transformed the nation, as well as an exciting glimpse into the highlights of history’s wheel turning. The Great American West is a joy for viewers of all ages and backgrounds, and is especially recommended for public library DVD collections.”- Bookwatch

Biography

Reed Smoot is one of the most sought-after large format cinematographers in the world. A life long passion with photography has seen him work in everything, from stills through documentary, commercials and feature films. Yet it is his work in large format film that he is most proud, having shot some of the most beautiful films in the medium’s history. Shackleton’s Antarctic Adventure saw Reed filming for months in the frozen southern wasteland and has just opened to rave revues. Mysteries of Egypt took him to the other temperature extreme, telling the incredible story of the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb. His other large format successes include the 3-D feature Journey Of Man; The Panda Adventure; Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets, To Be An Astronaut and Yellowstone, as well as the Academy Award®-nominated, Special Effects, and the Academy Award®-winning documentary feature The Great American Cowboy. Reed was honored by being made a member of The American Society of Cinematographers in early 2000.

Related Titles:

1. Greatest Journeys On Earth: Ireland, Great Britain & Brittany
2. Grange Fair: An American Tradition
3. George Marshall & The American Century

Over five hundred years ago, Christopher Columbus set sail in search of gold.

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LENGTH: 110 Minutes
MSRP: $24.95
CATALOG #: 20295
UPC #: 6-4603202959-8
ISBN #: 1-56839-220-6
RELEASE YEAR: 2005
PRODUCER: Gruppe 5 Filmproduktion

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He didn’t find gold, but he did discover the Havana cigar -Europe’s first major commodity. Since then, the Havana has become the cigar of connoisseurs all over the world. Among the more famous smokers of the Havana were Winston Churchill, Fidel Castro, Groucho Marx, and John F. Kennedy (who imported his own private stock before banning their sale and importation into the United States.

Shot on location in the Cuban provinces Pinar de Rio and Havana, where socialistic workers need three to four years to produce a Havana, and in London, Madrid, and Berlin, where Havana afficionados whiff these expensive toys in forty-five minutes, this entertaining documentary takes a look at the history and tradition of the finest cigar in the world. Some of the more famous smokers of the Havana were Winston Churchill, Fidel Castro, Groucho Marx, and John F. Kennedy.

This DVD includes the Spanish language version El Habano, as well as the English-language version, The Havana, of the film.

Reviews

“…a lovingly filmed tribute…mixes a playful sense of humor with a solid history and close-up look at the Cuban king of cigars. The Havana will appeal to cigar smokers, devotees of Freudian psychology, and those who like to savor a good documentary. Recommended. Three Stars.” – Video Librarian

“This video was the most authoritative on the subject of Cuban cigars…. History / documentary buffs will love this video. … Highlighting this slick production (clear photography and bouncy music) are interviews with older Cubans on the changes in the tobacco industry.” – Video Reviews

“Shot on location in the Cuban provinces Pinar de Rio and Havana…this entertaining documentary takes a look at the history and tradition of the finest cigar in the world.” – Cigar Connecticut Monthly

“Capturing the resurgent popularity cigars are now enjoying is this timely tribute. The camera work lovingly details the process of raising Cuba’s most precious commodity…A visit to London … finds aficionados appraising their Monte Cristos like fine wine…. Winston Churchill, Groucho Marx, and Orson Welles are just a few of the notable cigar lovers pictured with their omnipresent Havanas. Great fun for stalwart smokers.” -Booklist

No related Titles.

Born in Mexico, he became the main family provider when his father died in an accident.

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LENGTH: 59 Minutes – Total Content: 95 Minutes
MSRP: $24.95
CATALOG #: 20368
UPC #: 6-4603203689-3
ISBN #: 1-56839-276-1
RELEASE YEAR: 2008
PRODUCER: Wombat Productions

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So began the story of a man who had a “thousand jobs” before acting in a film of Cecil B. DeMille – and who within weeks had married the great director’s daughter. After being stereotyped in countless roles as Mexican bandits, Indian warriors, Oriental villains and Arab princes, he confounded Hollywood by turning his back on a career as character actor. Instead, by going his own way, he became an internationally acclaimed Academy Award-winning star.

Here is the Mighty Quinn with his own on-camera narration and comments of actors Julie Harris, Tony Franciosa, Gina Lollobrigida, Giulietta Masina, Giancarlo Giannini, directors Federico Fellini, Martin Ritt, J. Lee Thompson, Stanley Kramer and children, Valentina and Lorenzo. Clips come from La Strada, Lust For Life, Lawrence Of Arabia, Requiem For A Heavyweight, Blood And Sand, Viva Zapata, The Guns Of Navarone, Wild Is The Wind, The Black Orchid, Walk In The Spring Rain, and of course, Zorba The Greek.

Extra Features:
• Anthony Quinn Photo Gallery
• Meet the Producers slideshow
• The Hollywood Collection Preview
• Trailers: Robert Mitchum • Ingrid • Michael Caine • Gregory Peck

Reviews

“Fascinating study of mighty Quinn.” -Daily News

“This is an affectionate, unstinting, in depth look at the man and his life… A wonderful parlay for our eyes and minds, dealing with an unusual, unique individual.” -Newark Star Ledger

“It’s Quinn himself, a man with his own vast lust for life. Three stars.” -Detroit Free Press

Related Titles:

1. Hollywood Collection: Gregory Peck His Own Man
2. Hollywood Collection: Cary Grant The Leading Man
3. Hollywood Collection: William Holden The Golden Boy