Reviews: Dvds Out Tomorrow

Jun 15 2008 Mickey Mcmonagle

JUMPER (15) *****

I loved this sci-fi romp with Hayden Christensen as David, a young man who discovers he can "jump" - teleport anywhere in the world by picturing it in his head.

He realises his talent when he is drowning under the ice in a frozen river and suddenly appears in his local library.

He then uses his powers to jump in and out of bank vaults, stealing massive amounts of cash.

Then it all starts to go wrong. Paladins - religious fanatics led by Samuel L.

Jackson - are dedicated to wiping out all the jumpers. They track David down and try to kill him while he woos school crush Rachel Bilson.

Much-needed excitement is provided by Griffin (Jamie Bell), a young but more experienced jumper who ends up teaching David to survive.

CALIFORNICATION (18) *****

The first series of this raunchy, controversial and funny show was a huge hit.

From the opening scene - too explicit to detail here - you know you are in for a refreshing change from the usual dross. David Duchovny is at his best as Hank, a sleazy writer working his way through the women of LA while yearning to win back his ex, Karen (Natascha McElhone) and trying to be a father figure to their daughter Becca (Madeleine Martin).

Karen is now with the dull Bill - who happens to own the magazine which employs Hank. Scintillating stuff.

SEMI-PRO (12) *****

Will Ferrell in another sporting spoof? No thanks. After turning his so-called comedy on ice skating and motor racing in Blades Of Glory and Talladega Nights, he has a go at basketball.

He is Jackie Moon, a team owner out to win publicity for his bunch of no-hopers.