STACK NZ Dec #69

DVD & BD

REVIEWS

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Abbey ever after? Downton Abbey: SEASON six

The name's Snow... Jon Snow SPOOKS: THE GREATER GOOD

Release Date: 04/12/15

Release Date: 17/12/15

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It is an end of an era with this, the last-ever series of Downton . The curtain is gradually coming down on a way of life and both those upstairs and downstairs realise that times are a-changing. Before that happens, though, romance, scandal and heartache, once again, take centre stage in an absolute cracker of a series. Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) seems to have met her match in suave racing driver Henry Talbot (Matthew Goode) but fears that he, like her husband Matthew, will perish in a car crash. Below stairs, troublemaking under-butler Thomas (Rob

When it comes to reconfiguring popular TV shows for the big screen, the Brits tend to stick to comedies. However, this reboot of the BBC spy series that ran from 2002 to 2011, makes a welcome exception to the rule. Because Spooks seemed to delight in killing off its lead characters, there aren’t many survivors from the show, with Kit Harington – aka GoT 's Jon Snow – taking the lead role this time around. However, fans will be pleased to know that Peter Firth is back reprising his role as MI5 chief Harry Pearce, who here teams up with reluctant former agent Will Holloway (Harington) in an

James-Collier) is consumed with concerns about his future, while there are further woes for Anna and Bates. A familiar face make a welcome return, weddings are hastily arranged and the waspish Dowager (Maggie Smith) is, of course, full of priceless put-downs. In short, all is right in the world.

unsanctioned operation to track down a recent escaped terrorist and expose a suspected US mole in the service. Die-hard Spooks followers will be delighted by its comeback, but you don't have to have seen the show to enjoy this suspenseful – and sadly very topical – spy thriller.

WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS

HALO: THE FALL OF REACH

PENNY DREADFUL: SEASON 2

THE GALLOWS

Release Date: 16/12/15 Format:

Release Date: 03/12/15 Format:

Release Date: 02/12/15 Format:

Release Date: 02/12/15 Format:

From Max Joseph, co-host of MTV series Catfish , comes the inspirational story of an up and coming DJ and his buddies as they attempt to make it big in the EDM world and escape the confines of the San Fernando Valley. Cole (Zac Efron) has a great ear as a DJ, and when he's noticed at an LA rave by James (Wes Bentley) and his girlfriend Sophie (Emily Ratajkowski), he's quickly mentored in the art of playing dance music. An authentic and intriguing look at the EDM scene, We Are Your Friends is shot like a music video and packed with visual gimmicks, beautiful people and pulsating rhythms.

Microsoft and 343 Industries’ Halo series introduced us to Master Chief Petty Officer Spartan John 117 on his quest to save mankind and the galaxy. But where did he come from? The animated series Halo: The Fall of Reach gives Halo fans a chance to get into the history of John-117 and the other Spartans inducted into the SPARTAN-II recruitment program by Doctor Catherine Halsey. Follow the stories of John and his friends from when they were young children, taken from the novel by Eric Nylund. The Fall of Reach is an insightful prequel to the Halo series’ storyline, and features all the beloved voice talents from the games.

Creator John Logan's bewitching gothic horror series returns with 10 new episodes. There's more to discover about its core group of characters, plucked from classic 19th century literature and set loose on the streets of Victorian London to hunt and confront evil creatures and demonic forces. The true nature of the enigmatic Vanessa Ives (Eva Green) is finally revealed, while the sinister Madame Kali (Helen McCrory) is moved centre stage. And there's more Dorian Gray and Billie Piper. To say any more would be spoiling things. If you're not watching this already, you really should be.

Given enough rope, found- footage films will eventually... well, you know. But until then, teen audiences simply can't get enough handheld horror and consequently will be, er, hanging to see this latest entry involving a high school stage production of the eponymous play – a period piece which culminated in cast member Charlie losing his life when the noose tightened for real. 20 years later, a new group of students are resurrecting the play, and also, unbeknownst to them, the vengeful ghost of Charlie. Some clever juggling of character perspectives and a creepy backstage setting helps to distinguish The Gallows from its FF peers.

DECEMBER 2015

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