Just in time for the start of the holiday season is Disney’s A Christmas Carol (Disney, $29.99 DVD, $39.99 Blu-ray/DVD combo pack, $49.99 3D Blu-ray), directed using motion-capture technology by Robert Zemeckis and starring Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge. Each version is packed with bonus features, including a 3D Blu-ray exclusive Mr. Scrooge’s Wild Ride. The Blu-ray edition features a behind-the-scenes look at the film, an interactive Christmas calendar and deleted scenes, all in addition to DVD bonus features that look at the creative process behind the movie and follow one of the film’s young stars around the set.
One of the most-anticipated releases of the year hits this week with Avatar Extended Edition Collector’s Set (Fox, $34.98 DVD, $54.99 Blu-ray). Each edition will contain the original theatrical version, the special edition re-release version seen in theaters last summer and the collector’s extended cut that features an extra 16 minutes of footage and an exclusive alternate openings. Each also features a family audio option that removes the objectionable language. Bonus features on the Blu-ray include a feature-length documentary on the making of the film, more than 45 minutes of deleted scenes, production materials and more.
Also blending the line between animation and live action is The Last Airbender (Paramount, $30.99 DVD, $38.99 Blu-ray, $39.99 Blu-ray/DVD combo pack), an adaptation of the Nick cartoon series from director M. Night Shyamalan. Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore (Warner Bros., $28.98 DVD, $35.99 Blu-ray, $44.95 3D Blu-ray) also drops this week.
Back to animation, Warner Home Video has the Peanuts Holiday Collection Ultimate Collector’s Edition (Warner Bros., $67.97 Blu-ray/DVD combo pack), bringing to high definition for the first time the classic TV specials A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and A Charlie Brown Christmas. The set includes plenty of bonus features and a trio of bonus episodes.
On the kidvid end of things, this week sees the arrival of Handy Manny: Big Construction Job (Disney, $26.99), Lego Hero Factory: Rise of the Rookies (Warner Bros., $14.97), Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Mickey’s Numbers Roundup (Disney, $26.99) and Spongebob Squarepants: Legends of Bikini Bottom (Paramount, $19.99)
New this week in high-def are Scooby-Doo: Camp Scare (Warner Bros., $19.98 Blu-ray) and Voltron Fleet: The Movie (Media Blasters, $19.99 Blu-ray).
