With the holiday season in full swing, finding the perfect gift for the cinephiles, anime fans, or nostalgia buffs on your list can be daunting. But fear not! This in-depth guide is packed with must-have releases, collector’s editions, and bundles that’ll have you crossing names off your list in no time. Each pick is loaded with exclusive features and bonuses that make them truly one-of-a-kind. Let’s dive in!
Fantasy Adventure: The Boy and The Heron
SRP: $34.98 (4K UHD + Blu-ray™), $44.98 (Limited Edition Steelbook™)
From Studio Ghibli and legendary director Hayao Miyazaki comes The Boy and The Heron, an Academy Award®-winning masterpiece. Follow young Mahito as he uncovers the secrets of a mystical tower, guided by a mysterious gray heron, in a tale blending the realms of the living and the dead.
Why It’s a Must-Have:
- Available in 4K UHD for the first time from Studio Ghibli.
- The Limited Edition Steelbook™ includes Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for a cinematic home experience.
Nostalgia Galore: Wallace & Gromit: The Complete Cracking Collection
SRP: $119.98
Celebrate Aardman’s iconic duo with this deluxe collector’s set featuring all four short films restored in stunning 4K UHD, along with the beloved feature Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.
Set Highlights:
- Includes a 28-page book with insights by film critic Peter Debruge.
- Exclusive goodies: blueprints, recipes, stills, and sticker clings.
- Perfect timing with Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl premiering on Netflix this winter!
80s Fantasy Extravaganza: Labyrinth & The Dark Crystal Collector’s Editions
- Labyrinth SRP: $99.98
- The Dark Crystal SRP: $99.98
These deluxe sets are perfect for fans of classic fantasy. Labyrinth stars David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly in a mesmerizing journey through a goblin king’s maze. The Dark Crystal delivers Jim Henson’s stunning puppetry in a tale of good versus evil on the planet Thra.
Exclusive Collector’s Features:
- Labyrinth: Includes a crystal ball replica, art cards, and a lavish display box.
- The Dark Crystal: Features a life-size shard replica, concept art, and bonus behind-the-scenes content.
Thriller Night: HUSH (Collector’s Edition)
SRP: $39.98
Mike Flanagan’s edge-of-your-seat thriller HUSH is finally available in a gorgeous 4K UHD + Blu-ray™ Collector’s Edition. The home invasion horror includes a special black-and-white version dubbed the “Shush Cut,” along with director-approved restorations.
Time-Traveling Laughs: Bill & Ted’s Most Triumphant Trilogy
SRP: $99.98
Celebrate the bodacious adventures of Bill and Ted with this 6-disc set, including Excellent Adventure, Bogus Journey, and Face the Music, each presented in 4K UHD.
Special Features:
- First-ever 4K release of Bogus Journey.
- Packed with extras like behind-the-scenes featurettes and audio commentaries.
Cult Classics: Silent Night, Deadly Night & Killer Klowns from Outer Space
- Silent Night, Deadly Night SRP: $39.98
- Killer Klowns SRP: $44.98 (Steelbook), $39.98 (Standard)
For horror fans, these 4K UHD editions bring holiday chills and cult sci-fi comedy to life.
Why They’ll Love It:
- Silent Night: A yuletide slasher with new 4K restoration.
- Killer Klowns: Bonus features galore, from deleted scenes to “Making Of” featurettes.
Anime Favorites: Arcane & Evangelion
- Arcane SRP: $59.98 (Steelbook)
- Evangelion SRP: $36.98
From League of Legends’ stunning animated series Arcane to the climactic Evangelion: 3.0+1.11 Thrice Upon A Time, these releases are perfect for anime aficionados.
Standout Bonuses:
- Arcane: Jinx-themed packaging and over three hours of extras.
- Evangelion: Includes the emotionally charged finale of the Rebuild of Evangelion saga.
Comedy Gold: The Whitest Kids U’Know
SRP: $49.98
Relive the hilarity of this cult comedy series with this 10-DVD box set, including never-before-released Seasons 4 and 5.
Holiday Family Movie Night: A Sudden Case of Christmas
SRP: $22.98
Gather the family for this heartwarming tale starring Danny DeVito and Andie MacDowell, where a surprise Christmas celebration rekindles family bonds.
Wrap It Up
From dazzling collector’s editions to nostalgic TV bundles, this holiday gift guide is brimming with treasures for fans of every genre. So whether you’re shopping for the anime enthusiast, horror buff, or classic film lover, these releases are guaranteed to make this holiday season one to remember.
Happy gifting!
