Holiday Guide: Disney!

Hopefully, I can get these done by Christmas! Next up is the House of Mouse, Disney!

DisneyNature releases its first direct to dvd release with Crimson Wing which, in case you can't tell by that cover there, is about Flamingos.

I'll tell you I had no idea how fascinating these birds really are.  What a wonderful experience to see these majestic birds and learn so much I didn't know before.

I really love these documentaries and Crimson Wing carries on the tradition of Earth and Oceans (covered later).

On blu-ray the imagery is nothing short of breathtaking.  If you have even the slightest interest in nature documentaries then you must buy this.   It's something the entire family can enjoy and learn from together.

Next up is the adventure film inexplicably starring Nicholas Cage, The Sorcerer's Apprentice.  Now, when I first saw the trailer for this I was certain this would be a disaster the likes of which cinema has never seen.

I am pleased to say I was wrong.  It turns out to be a pretty fun movie!  It's not perfect of course and it has some cheese going on but it's still a fun ride with some great special effects and some charismatic performances from its leads, especially Jay Baruchel, who stands tall next to Cage.

Typical of Disney, the Blu-ray has plenty of features and looks incredible.  This is one the kids will be sure to love and probably want to watch a few times before they move on to whatever is next on their lists.  Perfect for a stocking stuffer!

Another DisneyNature release is Oceans.  I dunno what I can say about this except that is is beautiful.  The visuals alone on Blu-ray are incredible.  I had to check to see I wasn't drowning because the water footage seemed so real.

Like Crimson Wing, this is a must own for nature fans.  It's a stunning watch with some jaw-dropping footage.

I'm a huge shark fan and there is some just beautiful footage on display here.  It's coming from the legendary Cousteau's so you know you're going to be getting some great stuff.

Seriously, stuff this into as many stockings as you can.  It's glorious and you learn stuff.

Lastly, is Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 together in a 4 disc special edition set. This is probably a no brainer for even the most casual of Disney fans.  I know there is some controversy out there as to what version of the film you're getting and about certain footage that was cut out (years ago mind you) but regardless of that you really should pick this up.

Disney has delivered a great set to feature these two films loaded with special features, including the Destino short that Disneyphiles have been demanding for years, and DVD versions of both films for those out there who aren't blu-ray ready just yet.

The films looks glorious on the format.  Gorgeous colors come to life with amazing clarity.  Personally, I've never been a big fan of Fantasia (except for Sorcerer's Apprentice) but to watch it on Blu-ray is an entirely different experience.  The music sounds wonderful and together with the amazing picture, Fantasia is a sight to behold.  It's magical to say the least. 

Fantasia is a 100% must buy for any animation or Disney fans and would make a great addition to any movie fans collections.  Just for the beauty alone.

That's it for our Disney holiday guide, I left out Toy Story 3 because you should already own it.  These titles will all make great gifts for the family and are all movies you can enjoy together this holiday season.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice, Fantasia/Fantasia 2000, Oceans, and Crimson Wing are available now.