SLIS Holiday Gift Guide: Best 2015 Blu-ray and DVD Box Sets: the must-have home movie and TV special edition X-mas presents.
UPDATED: New Cyber Monday deals highlighted in red!!
Hello and welcome to the second installment of the 2015 SLIS Holiday Gift Guide (click here for our music box set edition).
Here I’ve assembled a list of the best Blu-ray and DVD film releases of 2015, including some truly badass box sets and all sorts of movie geekery for the film and TV buff in your life (or for yourself, I won’t tell anyone).
Here you’ll find ideal holiday gifts in the realms of horror, superheroes, sci-fi, comedy, animation, documentary,kids movies, classic film and more.
There are Amazon links for each entry, so simply click on the image of any item that captures your interest to be taken to Amazon for pricing, product details and purchase. I’ll be noting the best deals, and will update with Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals where applicable.
We get a percentage of each sale, which helps to keep this site running. Thanks in advance if you order through us. Much appreciated!
Let’s begin.
STAR WARS STUFF:
Star Wars: Steelbook Editions
With The Force Awakens just a few weeks away, there are plenty of SW related titles on hand, including these reissues. All six films are featured in new steelbook editions. Note: they STILL contain those pesky CGI add-ons, and all come with commentary from cast and crew.
And yes, the prequels are also getting the steelbook treatment, but I can’t bear myself to recumbent them. But click here if you must.
Star Wars: The Complete Saga (Episodes I-VI) [Blu-ray]
Or just get this mega-set with all 6 films with assorted extras and commentaries.
Star Wars: The Digital Movie Collection
And for Jedi’s short on shelf space, here’s the digital edition of the entire film series, which includes 9 hours of bonus features, several of which are exclusive to the digital version.
For even more Star Wars and geek-friendly gifts, check out my 2015 Geek Gift Guide
MARVEL ZOMBIE MERCH:
Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase 2 Collection (Amazon Exclusive) [Blu-ray]
CYBER MONDAY DEAL: Only $184.99 on AMAZON (normally $250)!
The second MCU box-set contains the following films (in both Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3-d and Digital) along with bonus features and exclusive memorabilia:
- Marvel’s Iron Man 3 (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
- Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
- Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
- Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
- Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
- Marvel’s Ant-Man (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
- Exclusive Bonus Content Disc
- 1:1 Prop Replica of the Morag Orb and More!
And while it may seem a bit pricey at $199, it’s 50% off its normal cover price.
Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron (Collector’s Edition) (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital HD)
The Avenger’s sequel in standalone format.
Ant-Man 2-Disc 3D BD Combo Pack [Blu-ray]
A film that was certainly better than its previews suggested (and much less bloated than Avengers 2), this kid-friendly Marvel Film comes packed with extras including Making Of An Ant-Sized Heist: A How-To Guide, behind the scenes look at the film’s special effects (including a look at the world from Ant-Man’s perspective) , Audio Commentary By director Peyton Reed And Paul Rudd, and much more.
MAXIMUM MAD MAX MANIA:
Mad Max: Fury Road (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD)
The post-apocalyptic action film of the year presented in glorious HD with assorted featurettes and behind-the-scenes goodies.
Mad Max (Collector’s Edition) [Blu-ray]
Shout! Factory has brought us another cult classic treasure with this special edition of the film that started the Mad Max phenomenon. In addition to a new HD transfer (and a cut featuring the native Aussie dialect), there are several exclusive featurettes and commentary from the film’s creative team.
Currently only $9.99
Mad Max: Fury Road (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD)
Or get all 4 films in one box set, each containing their original respective extra features.
ACTION & SCI-FI EPICS:
Escape From New York (Collector’s Edition) [Blu-ray]
Shout! Factory at it again, with another post-apocalyptic classic getting a deluxe edition. EFNY comes with a nice HD transfer, and new exclusive features including commentary from cinematographer Dean Cundey and actress Adrienne Barbeau, an interview with co-composer Alan Howarth, behind-the-set photos, and much more.
John Wick [Blu-ray]
The amazingly entertaining sleeper hit of 2014 (one of my personal favorites), featuring a host of extras, will surely keep you satiated while we await the sequel.
Nakatomi Plaza Die Hard Collection [Blu-ray]
CYBER MONDAY DEAL: 50% off on AMAZON at $64.99 (normally $130).
How sweet is this? All 5 Die-Hard films housed in a replica of the building where Bruce Willis first did battle as John McClane. Plus a bonus disc of extra features, collectible cards and a 32 page booklet. Yippee Ki Yay indeed.
The Guest [Blu-ray]
A tongue in cheek retro thriller that seamlessly weaves elements of horror, sci-fi and 80’s action, ‘The Guest’ is a blast that holds up well on repeat viewings. A must own for cult film fans.
Currently $13.49 on Amazon.
The Professional Cinema Series (Blu-ray + UltraViolet + Limited Edition Clear Case Packaging)
Luc Besson’s thriller/coming of age drama gets a slick makeover with this 4k Limited Edition, which includes clear case packaging, 24 page photo book, theatrical and extended cuts, and a Dolby Atmos sound mix.
Jurassic World (Limited Edition) (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD)
Full confession: I did NOT like this movie. Not at all. But lots of people did…so if you’re so inclined, this limited edition comes with the following special features:
- Digital Copy of Jurassic World (Digital Copy redemption code subject to expiration. See product insert for details.)
- Includes UltraViolet (Subject to expiration. Go to NBCUCodes.com for details.)
- Deleted Scenes
- Chris & Colin Take on the World
- Welcome to Jurassic World
- Dinosaurs Roam Once Again
- Jurassic World: All-Access Pass
- Innovation Center Tour with Chris Pratt
- Jurassic’s Closest Shaves – Presented by Barbasol®
Jurassic World 3D – Limited Edition Gift Set (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD)
Or get this dandy edition with dinosaur replicas containing all the special features as the earlier version.
Back to the Future: The Complete Adventures [Blu-ray]
For those of you who aren’t sick of hearing about how we’ve finally reached the same year as ‘Back to the Future II!’, this set is for you…or for the BTTF fan on your shopping list.
This mega-set doesn’t only contain the orignal trilogy, it also adds on the entire 26 episode television animated series, with a few special features along with a host of extras pirated over from the 20th anniversary edition released a few years back. Also included: a 64 page collective book, and light-up flux capacitor packaging.
Silent Running [Blu-ray]
The cult classic Bruce Dern starring 1972 sci-fi film with an ecological message gets a HD transfer with a host of special features.
Interstellar [Blu-ray]
BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: TBA on Amazon at 12:30pm
Sometimes head-scratching, certainly too long, but absolutely gorgeous and thought-provoking. Murph!!!
HOLIDAY HORROR
Army Of Darkness [Collector’s Edition] [Blu-ray]
Shout! Factory gives the third film in Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell’s ‘Evil Dead’ trilogy a 3-disc deluxe HD edition, including the theatrical, director and international cut of the film, along with a host of extras including multiple commentaries, and Medieval Times-a 100 minute behind the scenes documentary.
Currently only $17.99 on AMazon (normally $34.99)
The Babadook (Special Edition) [Deluxe Packaging] [Blu-ray]
Perhaps the best horror film of 2014, The Babadook Blu-ray comes with several special features and special pop-up packaging.
It Follows [Blu-ray]
Perhaps the most overrated horror film of 2014 (see what I did there?)…ok let’s just say polarizing. But hey, if you know someone who loves it, give it to them (and see what I did there?). It’s only $8.99 on Amazon.
Goodnight Mommy [Blu-ray]
If you’re shopping for horror fans that like it sick, dark, uncomfortable and disgusting, then this disturbing Danish thriller is a must-have. Terrifying.
Roar [Blu-ray]
Drafthouse Films rescued Roar from captivity and lived to tell about it. This crazy film that took 11 years to make and caused multiple injuries (to the cast) by wild animals has to be seen to be believed.
Special features include a documentary, cast Q&A, commentary and more.
Only $12.99 from Amazon. You only live once. Buy this trainwreck.
The Hunger [Blu-ray]
The late filmmaker Tony Scott’s 1983 directorial début finally hits Blu-ray, which gives his erotic vampire thriller (starring David Bowie and Susan Sarandon) an extra sinful sheen.
Troll / Troll 2 [Blu-ray]
Not only do you a get a double feature of two prize turds, you also get Best Worst Movie, the hilarious documentary recounting Troll 2’s status as one of the most gloriously terrible films ever made.
Duel [Blu-ray]
Steven Spielberg’s directorial début is a taut cat and mouse thriller on the open highway. A must-buy for fans of road chase movies and Spielberg completists.
The Car [Blu-ray]
This 70’s B-Movie romp finally gets a Blu-ray special edition.
Cannibal Ferox (Blu-ray Deluxe Edition)
One of the most disgusting, controversial and vile horror movies ever made, its perfect for the gorehound in your life (but keep a close eye on them), packed with a ton of bonus features including previously unseen footage. Be afraid. Be very afraid.
Jacob’s Ladder [Blu-ray + Digital HD]
Underrated upon its release, this psychological horror film has amassed quite the cult following, all of whom would love to unwrap this under the tree. And it’s only $9.49!
Don’t Look Now [Blu-ray]-Criterion
Nicolas Roeg’s unique horror masterpiece finally gets the deluxe Blu it deserves. This Criterion Collection release features a new 4k restoration, interviews and making-of featurettes.
The Lucio Fulci Collection [Blu-ray]
Three of the ghoulish director’s best, packed with special features.
The Dario Argento Collection [Blu-ray]
Argento collection, mirroring the structure of the Fulci release.
Burnt Offerings (1976) [Blu-ray]
One of the best kept secrets in horror gets a Blu-ray release. Yay! If you or someone you know loves haunted house movies, get this ASAP. Comes with several special features including a commentary from the late, great queen of horror, Karen Black.
COMEDIES (HOLIDAY and OTHERWISE):
Pee-Wee’s Playhouse: Christmas Special
This Emmy award-nominated holiday incarnation of Pee Wee’s Playhouse gets remastered in HD. Featuring cameos from the likes of Joan Rivers, Charo, Grace Jones and Oprah Winfrey!
Christmas Vacation (BD) [Blu-ray]
While the special features are skimpy (if any, I couldn’t find any), reviews about the HD transfer and audio quality is reason enough to pick this up. Let’s face it, watching this on ABC Family means they cut out all the good parts. If you can’t hear “shitter was full” in all it’s glory-then you need this in your life.
Home Alone Ultimate Collector’s Edition [Blu-ray]
All 5 movies, 2+ hours of special features, collectible ornament, fake spider, Battle Plan and Wanted posters all in a paint-can case. Only $27.99 (normally $70.)
John Hughes Yearbook Collection (The Breakfast Club / Sixteen Candles / Weird Science) (Blu-ray + Digital HD)
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Three John Hughes classics, loaded with extras, for only $20!
The Breakfast Club (30th Anniversary Edition) (Blu-ray + Digital HD)
Or just get the best Hughes’ film’s 30th anniversary edition Blu.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail Limited Edition Castle Catapult Gift Set [Blu-ray]
CYBER MONDAY DEAL: 50% off on AMAZON at $24.99 (normally $55.99)
Great packaging, plenty of extras. A must for lovers of Monty, and only $30 on Amazon.
CULT CLASSICS:
Edward Scissorhands: 25th Anniversary [Blu-ray]
One of Tim Burton’s most personal films comes with the following:
**Theatrical Feature Blu-ray
**Commentary by Director Tim Burton
**Commentary by Composer Danny Elfman
**Featurette
**Theatrical Trailers
$12.07 on Amazon
Rocky Horror Picture Show: 40th Anniversary Collector’s Edition [Blu-ray]
Let’s do the time warp again, with this can’t lose box set, featuring the following goodies (which also includes stockings, gloves and soundtrack cd):
**Includes Both the U.S. and U.K. Versions of the Film
**The Midnight Experience: The Late-Night, Double-Feature, Picture-in-Picture Show; Vintage Callback Track (Unrated); Prop Box; Trivia Track
**Rocky-oke*: Sing It!
**Mick Rock (A Photographer)
**Mick Rock s Picture Show (A Gallery)
**Pressbook and Poster Gallery
**Audio Commentary by Richard O Brien and Patricia Quinn
**Deleted Musical Scenes and Outtakes
**Alternate B&W Opening
**Alternate Credit Ending and Misprint Ending
**Rocky Horror Double-Feature Video Show
**Beacon Theater, New York City
** Time Warp Music Video…and More!
Mulholland Dr. [Blu-ray]-Criterion
While Lynch fans impatiently await Twin Peaks to return to TV, they can soak up Criterion’s deluxe edition of Mulholland Drive, which comes with a 4k transfer, 5.1 surround, new interviews with cast and crew, collectors booklet and more.
The Quay Brothers: Collected Short Films [Blu-ray]
This long overdue collection features the beautifully grotesque puppetry of the Quay Brothers, featuring all their short films and music videos. I was shipped a screener, and can vouch that this is a keeper.
The films have never looked better, it has lots of commentaries from the brothers themselves, a glossary booklet of the terminology of the Quay’s world, and a documentary on the duo by none other than Christopher Nolan himself.
The Collected Works of Hayao Miyazaki (Amazon Exclusive) [Blu-ray]
If you’re shopping for fans of anime, this pricey, yet expansive set covers the following classic films:
* Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro
* Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
* Castle in the Sky
* My Neighbor Totoro
* Kiki’s Delivery Service
* Porco Rosso
* Princess Mononoke
* Spirited Away
* Howl’s Moving Castle
* Ponyo
* The Wind Rises
Forbidden Zone [Blu-ray]
One of the most batshit films of the 80’s features Fantasy Island’s Herve Villechaize and Oingo Boingo frontman/film composer Danny Elfman in a movie which features a Hercules House, a giant intestine and takes place in the 6th dimension. Grand weirdness.
The Fisher King [Blu-ray]-Criterion
Featuring one of the late Robin William’s greatest performances, Terry Gilliam’s The Fisher King gets a Criterion upgrade. Here’s the specs:
- New, restored 2K digital transfer, approved by director Terry Gilliam, with 5.1 surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack
- Audio commentary featuring Gilliam
- New interviews with Gilliam; producer Lynda Obst; screenwriter Richard La Gravenese; and actors Jeff Bridges, Amanda Plummer, and Mercedes Ruehl
- New interviews with artists Keith Greco and Vincent Jefferds on the creation of the film’s Red Knight
- Interview from 2006 with actor Robin Williams
- New video essay featuring Bridges’s on-set photographs
- Deleted scenes, with optional commentary by Gilliam
- Costume tests
- Trailers
- PLUS: An essay by critic Bilge Ebiri
TELEVISION BOX SETS:
The Walking Dead Season 5 Limited Edition [Blu-ray]
Gotta love that gruesome collector case.
The Flash: Season 1 [Blu-ray]
BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: TBA on Amazon at 4:35 pm
The Scarlet Speedster’s acclaimed first season on Blu.
Arrow: Season 3 [Blu-ray]
BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: TBA on Amazon at 4:35 pm
More DC TV.
Doctor Who: Christmas Specials Giftset [Blu-ray]
Collects all the X-mas Dr. Who specials from 21st century cast members.
The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst [Blu-ray] + Digital HD
I don’t think I’ve ever jumped out of my couch and yelled at the TV before…until I saw the finale of The Jinx. Holy hell, this is the most intense and insane documentary series you’ll ever see. If I say anymore I’ll ruin it. If you have a true crime fan in your life, buy this for them. It’ll blow their minds. Only $19.99.
Battlestar Galactica: The Definitive Collection [Blu-ray]
The 70’s version, all in widescreen HD.
Lost in Space: The Complete Adventures [Blu-ray]
“Danger, Will Robinson!” The entire classic 60’s sci-fi series housed in a cool collector’s set teeming with over 8 hours special features. For those awaiting the Netflix reboot, get acquainted with the original by diving into this beauty.
Justified: The Complete Series (Blu-ray + UltraViolet)
X-Files: The Collector’s Set [Blu-ray]
The whole shebang: all eight seasons on Blu, packed with a ton of docs, commentaries and more, all to get you ready for the new season next year.
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Volume XXXIV
Do you know anyone as excited about the MST3K revival as we are (and we’re VERY excited)? Well give them this to tide them over. The latest box set from the crew in the satellite of love features the following titles:
Viking Women Vs. The Sea Serpent (aka The Saga Of The Viking Women And Their Voyage To The Waters Of The Great Sea Serpent)
War Of The Colossal Beast
The Undead
The She-Creature
Click here for my 2013 interview with MST3K’s Joel Hodgson
DOCUMENTARIES:
Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley’s Island of Dr. Moreau (Blu-ray + DVD + CD)
The craziest documentary I’ve ever seen about making a movie, and that’s saying something. For why this film about the disastrous The Island of Dr Moreau remake is so good, check out my review. But I’ll just say it is absolutely hilarious and infuriating all at once. But when a filmmaker casts Marlon Brando and Val Kilmer in the same film, it was a doomed battle of egos from the start.
The Decline Of Western Civilization Collection-Blu-ray
CYBER MONDAY DEAL: $34.99 (normally $39.98) on Amazon
If you’re a fan of punk and metal, or you’re shopping for a fan of punk and metal, you NEED this documentary series about all that’s wonderful and ridiculous about both genres. Click here for more info in my 2015 gift guide of great music box sets and music docs.
KIDS MOVIES:
Inside Out (Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack + Digital Copy)
Pixar has done it again. I’ll have to pick this up to have on hand for my own little munchkin when she gets older.
Minions (Blu-ray + DVD + DIGITAL HD)
Big Hero 6 (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD)
Disney and Marvel’s first joint animated feature was a big home run. Comes packed with fun extras too.
101 Dalmatians Diamond Edition (BD+DVD+Digital HD) [Blu-ray]
Classic Disney, with special features to boot.
