The Jumanji video gamers and their adventurous avatars (Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan) return in this action-packed sequel. This time, the game is on the fritz, players inhabit different characters, and two old geezers (Danny DeVito and Danny Glover) get sucked into the world of Jumanji, all of which makes for an even wilder ride that leads to the ultimate boss fight with sinister villain Jurgen the Brutal (Rory McCann). With Nick Jonas, Alex Wolff. 123 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack English. Two-disc set.

GLADIATOR - Blu-ray - Ridley Scott (BLADE RUNNER, ALIEN) transports Hollywood to second-century Rome in this rousing historical epic that proudly harkens back to such films as BEN-HUR and SPARTACUS. Russell Crowe plays Maximus, a Roman general who leads the troops in conquering Germania for the empire. When an aging Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris) tells Maximus that he'd like him to rule Rome once he's gone, a classic confrontation ensues between the brave and charming soldier-who wants to return home to his wife, son, and farm-and the jealous and conniving Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), the emperor's only son, who is thirsty for power. Bought as a slave by the profiteering Proximo (Oliver Reed, in his last role), Maximus must kill or be killed in the ring, battling to save not only himself but the future of the very empire that he loves and honors. The film features a terrific battle sequence (that recalls the beginning of SAVING PRIVATE RYAN), huge crowd scenes of thousands of people, and even a little romance, albeit mostly taboo. The impeccably choreographed gladiator scenes are violent yet thrilling, flashing by like lightning. GLADIATOR is a glorious spectacle filled with heart and soul. Color/154 min/R/widescreen.