If last week saw a trickle of releases on Blu-ray, then this week is without doubt a title tidal wave. A very impressive amount are flocking to our favoured format and for once it is not comprised of mainly Beethoven and Wagner (okay so there is a bit of Wagner!). The number of big name titles receiving an HD makeover rubber stamps the fact that Blu-ray has nestled nicely into consumer plans for 2010. We start this weeks New In Blu with a title that has been very much anticipated since its announcement a few months back; Gamer.

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Gamer

(Entertainment In Video | 2009 | 95 mins | Rated 18)

Virtual reality and online multiplaying are all the rage at present. The idea that you can fulfil computer based fantasies in a real world setting is a concept that appeals to both gamers and your average Joe alike. Set in the near future (and written by the team behind the Crank films), Gamer puts convict Kable into a mind controlling videogame known as Slayer. The aim of the game is to act out savage visions for the purposes of audience entertainment, the only problem is that the unwilling competitors are controlled by the games evil designer. In the film we follow Kable's fight to regain his family, identity and freedom from the game's evil clutches. Ken Castle is the villain behind the game that not only involves our main character but the public in general. Humans control other humans in a mass multiplayer environment that smudges the boundaries of real and virtual life into a seamless hybrid in the film that sees Slayers mind control techniques being challenged.

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Dorian Gray

(Momentum Pictures | 2009 | 112 mins | Rated 15)

Based on the famous Faustian novel by Oscar Wilde, Dorian Gray follows the story of the titular character who strives to keep his youthful good looks despite his ever ageing interior. After being taken under the wing of Lord Henry Wotton, Dorian is introduced to the seedy pleasures of the London social scene where he becomes accustomed to the celebrity lifestyle he attracts. So much so that after an artist paints a portrait of the good looking fellow, he will give anything to maintain his appearance - even his soul. The film follows Dorian's slip into the world of sex, sin and violence with little or no repercussions. As his acts delve into the devious, just how long will it be before the secret behind his eternal youth is unearthed?

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Funny People

(Universal Studios | 2009 | 146 mins | Rated 18)

Funny People, a title that has been hailed for its hilarity follows the story of George Simmons, a famous stand up comedian whose life comes crashing down around him when he discovers he has a terminal illness resulting in an under one year life expectancy. Ira, a struggling comedian is hired to be George's assistant after the two meet at a comedy club. The new born friendship results in Simmons helping Ira re-establish her flagging career path that leads to the revisiting of people and places that matter most. When George's disease goes into remission, he is forced to re-evaluate his priorities and what really means most to him in his life. The Blu-ray edition of the film will come packed with extras including gag reels, stand up live performances and deleted scenes. To add to this, it will come with full BD Live functionality where you can download the latest trailers amongst others.

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Also available:

It Might Get Loud

(500) Days Of Summer

Suspiria

Creation

A Perfect Getaway

The Red Balloon

Dungeons And Dragons: Wrath Of The Dragon God

Wagner: Siegfried

The Green Berets

Birtwistle: The Minotaur

Fireball