This week, the marketplace will see a number of Latino stars headlining DVD releases. Among these Latino actors are Michael Pena, Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, Kate del Castillo and Zuria Vega.

Latin Post takes a look at the week in new DVD releases, which also includes Indie dramas, Academy Award nominees and animated films:

Fury

The Brad Pitt starrer tells the story of a battle-hardened army sergeant named Wardaddy who commands a Sherman tank and his five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Out-numbered, out-gunned, and with a rookie soldier thrust into their platoon, Wardaddy and his men face overwhelming odds in their heroic attempts to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany. "Fury" also stars Michael Pena, Logan Lerman, Shia LaBeouf and Jon Bernthal. The film received overly positive reviews when it opened and it was a moderate success. However, it was supposed to be an awards player and it did not live up to those expectations. With no war dramas in the market and with Pitt headlining, this film should easily appeal to a large audience.

The Judge

After having flopped in theaters, the David Dobkin drama will be released on DVD. The film stars Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall and tells the story of big city lawyer Hank Palmer, who returns to his childhood home where his father, the town's judge, is suspected of murder. As a result, Hank sets out to discover the truth and, along the way, reconnects with his estranged family. The movie received mixed reviews when it opened at the Toronto Film Festival. However, Duvall was nominated for the Academy Award for his performance and that should easily raise audience awareness. The film will likely appeal to Downey Jr. fans and will also appeal to those audiences looking to watch all the awards contenders.

The Book of Life

The Golden Globe nominee will finally be released after a successful theatrical run. Starring Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, Channing Tatum, Placido Domingo, Kate del Castillo, Hector Elizondo, Ana de La Reguera and Ron Perlman, the film tells the story of Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart. As a result, he embarks on an adventure that spans three fantastic worlds where he must face his greatest fears. The film received positive reception and with very little family friendly films out in theaters, this will definitely appeal to family audiences.

Before I Go to Sleep

After flopping with its first film, Clarius Entertainment released its third feature starring Nicole Kidman and Colin Firth. However, this movie was also a disaster at the box office. Also starring Mark Strong, the film tells the story of a woman who wakes up every day remembering nothing as a result of a traumatic accident in her past. One day, new terrifying truths emerge that force her to question everyone around her. The film scored mixed reviews and had a weak marketing push. After a flopping at the box office, Clarius has done little to promote the DVD or digital release. As a result, expect this movie to continue under the radar.


Mas Negro Que la Noche

Lionsgate will release the Latino scary movie starring renowned Mexican actress Zuria Vega. The film tells the story of Greta who moves into her recently deceased aunt's mansion and starts throwing wild parties with her friends. However, what looks to be the best summer of their lives turns into a fight for their lives after Beker, her aunt's prized cat, drowns in the home's pool. The film was released in September in time for Halloween. However, it ultimately flopped due to the lack of interest and the negative reviews. With little marketing and little interest, this movie will likely find interest only among Latino groups.


Indie releases include Oscilloscope's "Art and Craft," IFC's "Days and Nights" and Drafthouse's "Why Don't you Play in Hell." The Cohen Media Group will also release the company's most successful film "The Old Lady" starring Maggie Smith, Kristin Scott Thomas and Kevin Kline.