DVD Releases - Jan. 9

“Crank” (R) - Well, you can certainly throw logic out the window with this frenetic action flick about an assassin (Jason Statham) poisoned by one of his rivals. The poison requires the assassin to keep his adrenaline pumping so that his heart rate doesn’t slow down, thereby killing him. He uses his newfound need for action as a chance to try and track down his would be killer. It’s like “Speed,” only inside a human body. Oh, and no Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock and Dennis Hopper.
Extras: An audio commentary, behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with cast and crew.
Official Web site

“Extras: Season 1” - From the clever comic minds of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (creators of the original BBC version of “The Office”) comes a look at the fringe of the entertainment business, as an out-of-work actor (Gervais) desperately tries to catch a break. The second season is set to debut later this month on HBO, but this release offers a good chance for people to see the sometimes painfully funny situations Gervais finds himself in. It also features some standout guest appearances by Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Stiller and most notably, Kate Winslet.
Extras: A behind-the-scenes featurette, deleted scenes and outtakes.
Official Web site

“The Illusionist” (PG-13) - Two of the best actors in the business, Edward Norton and Paul Giamatti star in this suspenseful film about Eisenheim, an illusionist (Norton) in early 20th century Vienna who spellbinds audiences and captures the heart of a childhood love (Jessica Biel). Problem is, she’s the fiancee of a Crown Prince (Rufus Sewell), who enlists the aid of an inspector to expose Eisenheim as a fraud. It’s tough to go wrong with Norton and Giamatti heading up your cast and director Neil Burger shows a deft touch with the look and atmosphere of the film.
Extras: Audio commentary with Burger, a making of featurette and interview with Biel.
Official Web site

“The Night Listener” (R) - Inspired by true events, Robin Williams stars as a writer and talk radio host, who initially is captivated by the story told by one of his callers. That leads to him seeking out the identity of the caller and the truth behind his mysterious tale. Toni Collette and Sandra Oh co-star in this suspense drama.
Extras: A deleted scene and a featurette.
Official Web site