Page 26 THE VILLADOM TIMES I & III • April 24, 2013 DVD releases (continued from Restaurant page expressive; one can read every thought, including the fear in his eyes knowing that the news he might learn next could be the worst. Bonuses on the Blu-ray and DVD editions include audio commentary by director, writer, and producer; a makingof featurette; a short on the film’s casting; and deleted scenes. “Gate of Hell” (The Criterion Collection) takes place in 12th century Japan. A rebellion is under way. Proud and handsome samurai Morito (Kazuo Hasegawa) falls in love with lady-in-waiting Kesa (Machiko Kyo), whom he aids and saves during a palace revolt. He later requests her hand in marriage only to learn she is already wed. Burning with a mad desire for her, he continues his pursuit and causes her such shame and sorrow that she commits suicide. The first 20 minutes move quickly and are filled with action, but the picture then shifts to a leisurely, contemplative style, resembling a ‘50s Hollywood melodrama -- long on angst, guilt, and suffering for moral and social indiscretions. The movie is beautifully shot in color, its elaborate sets and costumes contributing an exotic fairy tale-like atmosphere. It received an Oscar for Best Foreign Film. The new Blu-ray edition, in Japanese with English subtitles, contains a digital master of the 2011 restoration and a historical essay. “Promised Land” (Universal Home Entertainment) is a drama that uses the theme of environmental protection. Steve Butler (Matt Damon) and Sue Thomason (Frances McDormand) are energy corporation representatives who arrive in a small Pennsylvania town to convince residents of the poor farming community to sell drilling rights to their land so the corporation can extract natural gas through the method of fracking. The reps ingratiate themselves with the townsfolk, explaining how much money can be made if the company acquires the rights to drill. Most are easily swayed with promises of riches to follow, but two men - science teacher Frank Yates (Hal Holbrook) and newly arrived environmental activist Dustin Noble (John Krasinski) -- warn of ramifications. The movie is surprisingly light and witty considering the gravity of the subject matter. McDormand, as usual, is wonderful, etching a genuine character from a largely expositional role. Krasinski brings his natural charm from “The Office” to his portrayal, and Damon, in particular, is quite effective as a villain in sheep’s clothing. His Steve is comfortable talking to people, listening to what they have to say, and ultimately getting them to sign on the dotted line. Slick though he is, he appears naive about the way of life he is bringing down and the years of environmental misery ahead. Blu-ray bonus features include a digital copy, an extended scene, and a making-of featurette. The film is also available on DVD.