Christmas gift ideas from Universal

Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas without turkey, Quality Street...and something that brings family and friends together round the telly to laugh, to cry, to cuddle up... or simply just to get into the Christmas spirit. With Universal’s Christmas Collection that grandstand family moment in front of the TV is guaranteed. From all time favourites It’s a Wonderful Life, The Snowman and Steven Spielberg’s all-time-great E.T to some of the biggest names in comedy who will make even the funniest cracker mottos look a bit lame.

Why not settle down with the family and be enthralled by Dynamo: Magician Impossible II, letting you experience the magic of Christmas like never before! Universal also have some of the hotly anticipated releases of the year to bring you laughter, drama and good cheer, including Downton Abbey: Series III, Mrs. Brown’s Boys and the spectacular Arena tour staging of Lord Andrew-Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar for the very first time.

And if you are really torn when it comes to what to choose you can always indulge in a little bit of everything to mark Universal’s 100th Anniversary with a commemorative boxset featuring 100 classic movies charting the studio’s centenary of film making – from early Oscar winners to new hits which have become classics.

Most Universal releases are also available on Blu-Ray, bringing to life some of film's most famous moments in stunning quality to make for some utterly unmissable additions to the Christmas calendar.

It’s a Wonderful Life (General, Grandparents, Mums, Dads, Kids)

Repeatedly voted as one of the greatest and most inspirational films ever made and the most loved Christmas movie of all time, Golden Globe winner and five-time academy award nominee It’s a Wonderful Life is the definitive Christmas classic. Directed and produced by Frank Capra, George Bailey’s journey of remorse and reawakening with the help of guardian angel Clarence Odbody is a timeless celebration of love, family and friendship.

Revel in one of the most celebrated and uplifting films of the all time this Christmas, available on DVD and Blu-Ray which includes the original black and white and full colour versions of the film.

DVD RRP: £17.99, BLU RAY RRP: £19.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

ET the Extra – Terrestrial 30th anniversary edition
The Snowman
Downton Abbey Series Three
Michael McIntyre: Showtime!

Jesus Christ Superstar (General, Mums, Kids)



Celebrate the true superstar of Christmas in spectacular robin-rocking style, with the critically acclaimed 21st century re-invention of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical.

Over the past 40 years, “Jesus Christ Superstar” has become a worldwide phenomenon, portraying the story of the last seven days of Christ leading up to his crucifixion as seen through the eyes of ‘Judas Iscariot’, and featuring hit songs such as ‘Superstar’, ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’, ‘Heaven On Their Minds’ and ‘Hosanna’. This recording features a star-studded line-up which includes award-winning musical comedian Tim Minchin in the role of ‘Judas Iscariot’; pop icon and former Spice Girl Melanie C as ‘Mary Magdalene’; radio DJ Chris Moyles in his stage debut as ‘King Herod’; and the winner of the UK’s primetime ITV show ‘Superstar’, Ben Forster, who was chosen by the British public to take on the title role of ‘Jesus’.

Over 40 different cast recordings have been released in 19 different languages. Since its first production in the US in 1971, Jesus Christ Superstar has rarely left the stage, with professional productions in 42 countries around the world and with around 300 amateur productions officially licensed each year. Released just in time for Christmas 2012, this is the perfect present for a musical loving mum or singing crazy sibling.

Price: DVD RRP: £19.99, BLU RAY RRP: £24.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

Smash: Season One
Phantom of The Opera & Love Never Dies Boxset

Smash: Season One (Mums, Teens)

Reach for the stars this Christmas with the first season of US hit musical sensation SMASH on DVD. Developed from the mind of Executive Producer and multiple Emmy and Oscar winner Steven Spielberg, and created by the producers of Chicago and Law and Order, SMASH will provide that extra sparkle to your screens this Christmas. The ingenious Tony and Grammy award-winning writing duo Marc Shaiman (Hairspray) and Scott Wittman (Glee) have put together a phenomenal musical score including covers of popular hits and breath-taking original songs. Art Director Doug Huszti (Gossip Girl, Boardwalk Empire) works with a star-studded behind-the-scenes team in perfect harmony to re-produce the glitz and glamour of the New York theatre scene in your front room.

With a spectacular ensemble cast including British talents Jack Davenport (Pirates of the Caribbean, The Talented Mr. Ripley) as unsympathetic director ‘Derek Wills’ and Raza Jaffrey (Harry Brown, Spooks) as Karen’s boyfriend ‘Dev’. This incredible debut series is blessed with the incomparable tour de force; Angelica Houston (The Royal Tenenbaums, The Witches) as tenacious theatre producer ‘Eileen Rand’.

SMASH – Season One has plucked its acting and behind the scenes talent from the upper register of the entertainment universe, and is the ultimate way to bring the glitz and glamour of NYC into your family this Christmas – a tantalising treat for aspiring singers and actresses alike.

DVD PRICE: £29.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

Downton Abbey: Series Three
Jesus Christ Superstar

Dynamo: Magician Impossible Series 2 (General, Dads, Teens, Sons)

Experience the magic of Christmas like never before with Dynamo: Magician Impossible Series 2 on DVD, which sees Britain’s most illustrious magician return with an overload of mind-blowing magic and incredible illusions. The series broke all viewing records when it aired on this summer, with average viewing figures of almost 2 million people per episode.

Dynamo: Magician Impossible Series 2 features some of Dynamo’s most ambitious stunts to date, and is sure to produce the wow factor for all members of the family.

DVD RRP: £19.99
BLU-RAY RRP: £24.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…
Michael McIntyre: Showtime!
Jon Richardson – Funny Magnet
Ted
The Bourne Legacy

Downton Abbey: Series Three (Mums, Grandparents, General)

Immerse yourself in the ever-enchanting world of Downton Abbey this Christmas, when Carnival Films’ and Julian Fellowes’s hit drama returns for a star-studded third series on DVD. Follow Britain’s beloved aristocracy as they move into the 1920s with this third instalment of the Golden Globe and six-time Emmy award-winning series in a variety of characteristically sumptuous settings. An ideal gift for the older members of your family, and those with a seasonal weakness for costume drama.

PRICE: DVD RRP: 29.99
BLU-RAY RRP: £34.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

It’s a Wonderful Life
ET the Extra – Terrestrial
Michael McIntyre: Showtime!

Snow White & the Huntsman (Daughters, Teens)

A dramatic and atmospheric twist on the classic fairytale, the epic fantasy adventure SNOW WHITE & THE HUNTSMAN should be on every fearless child’s Christmas list this winter.

Directed by Rupert Sanders and featuring a spell-binding cast of Kristen Stewart (Twilight, Into The Wild), Charlize Theron (Prometheus, Hancock), and Chris Hemsworth (Avengers Assemble, Thor), SNOW WHITE & THE HUNTSMAN takes you on a journey of fate and heroism.

A breathtaking new vision of the legendary tale is produced by Joe Roth (Alice in Wonderland), and Sam Mercer (The Sixth Sense) rounds off its stellar cast with fantastic stand-out performances from the dwarves played by Ian McShane (Deadwood, Sexy Beast), Ray Winstone (The Departed, Hugo), Nick Frost (Paul, Hot Fuzz), Eddie Marsan (Sherlock Holmes, V for Vendetta), and Toby Jones (The Hunger Games, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy).

This must-see action-adventure also features staggering DVD and Blu-Ray bonus materials, including A New Legend is Born, 360 Degree Set Views, Reinventing the Fairytale, The Magic of ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’ and a special Citizens of the Kingdom Fairest of The All featurette, looking at Snow White, Deliciously Evil, Queen Ravenna, The Huntsman, Motley Crew and The Dwarves

RRP: £19.99, RRP: £29.99 LIMITED EDITION BLU RAY - RRP: £39.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

Smash: Season One
ET the Extra – Terrestrial
Jesus Christ Superstar
It’s a Wonderful Life

ET the Extra – Terrestrial: 30th Anniversary Edition (General)

Nine-time Academy Award nominee E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial celebrates its 30th Anniversary with its first-ever release on Blu-ray, just in time for Christmas 2012. Academy Award-winning director Steven Spielberg’s magical adventure comes to life like never before with a digitally remastered picture that delivers six times the resolution of DVD, as well as all-new 7.1 surround sound. With an all-new interview with the director, an hour of never-before-seen footage from the set of the film as well as tons more bonus features, this is the chance to own one of the most iconic and popular films of all time. Loved by young an old, the 30th anniversary edition of E.T on Blue-ray is a gift that will truly last a lifetime.

Price: £24.00

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

It’s a Wonderful Life
Michael McIntyre: Showtime!

Jon Richardson – Funny Magnet (GENERAL, DADS, TEENS)

There’s nothing like great comedy at Christmas, and what better way to celebrate this than with the one of the most eagerly awaited comedy DVDs of the year. Jon Richardson, host of Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week, team captain on 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, best-selling author, raconteur, and modern day heart-throb is guaranteed to provide laughs-a-plenty in his debut DVD Funny Magnet.

Funny Magnet sees everyone’s favourite grumpy young man and perennial singleton take to the stage to discuss the everyday occurrences which have a profound effect on his misanthropic outlook on life. Jon works his pessimism and irritability with some hilarious consequences, and makes the audience give in to his magnetism with his loveable vivacious delivery. This is set to become the break-through must have stand-up comedy performance of the year, and is sure to please both younger and older audiences alike.

DVD RRP: £19.99

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

Michael McIntyre: Showtime!
Kevin Bridges: The Story Continues…

Kevin Bridges: The Story Continues… (GENERAL, DADS, TEENS)

Filmed during his massive 87 date UK & Ireland 2012 autumn tour, which includes an unprecedented 10 sold-out nights at Glasgow’s SECC Arena, The Story Continues… is 25 year old Kevin Bridges’ highly anticipated return to the spotlight and is set to be even funnier than his best-selling 2010 debut DVD release. 2012 is the year for all comedy fans across the UK to finally catch this comedy genius at the top of his game.

Often cited as the most exciting Scottish comedian since Billy Connolly, Kevin has the precious ability to tell stories everyone can to relate to, all delivered in his uniquely distinctive and unforgettable way. His thoughtful brand of social commentary, astute observations, and sharp one-liners have proved a big hit with audiences with his current tour selling out instantly throughout the British Isles – from Inverness in the north to Portsmouth in the south.

Kevin has become a consistent regular on our television screens, with credits including: Live At The Apollo (BBC1), Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC1), Have I Got News For You (BBC2), 8 Out Of 10 Cats (Channel 4), Mock the Week (BBC2), Would I Lie To You (BBC1), What’s the Story (BBC1).

The Story Continues… is the ideal gift to gather the family together this Christmas and enjoy some of the most brilliant comedy that Britain has to offer.

RRP: £19.99 – DVD; £24.99 - BLU-RAY™

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…

Michael McIntyre: Showtime!
Jon Richardson – Funny Magnet

Michael McIntyre: Showtime! (GENERAL)

One of the nation’s best loved comedians and BAFTA winner Michael McIntyre is back once more with his funniest show yet, available on DVD in time to keep you chortling right through Christmas to the New Year and beyond.

Three years in the making, and featuring all new material from his gigantic 71 date sell-out 2012 live arena tour; Michael McIntyre – Showtime! includes soon-to-be classic routines from the UK’s number one comedian, and is set to emulate the huge record-breaking successes of his previous million selling chart topping DVD releases.

Michael McIntyre – Showtime! is a must-have addition to the McIntyre comedy DVD collection and is also the perfect gift for comedy fans of any age. Michael is also now a Christmas TV favourite with his top rating primetime seasonal show on BBC1. So crack open the man-drawer, take a front row seat with the whole family in the comfort of your own home and watch the comedy master at work exclusively this festive season. There is only one gift worth giving this Christmas. It’s Showtime!

RRP: £21.99 DVD+ ULTRAVIOLET, £26.99 BLU-RAY™+ULTRAVIOLET

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…
Jon Richardson – Funny Magnet
Kevin Bridges: The Story Continues


The Snowman: 30th Anniversary Edition

One of the best-loved Christmas stories of modern times is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Relive the magic of Raymond Briggs’ inspired classic on DVD and Blu-Ray from November 5th.

Academy Award nominee The Snowman has captured the hearts and imaginations of a generation of families across the globe. Now, this timeless classic is available for the first time ever in high definition as The Snowman: 30th Anniversary Edition is released onBlu-Ray and DVD from November 5th 2012.

Over the past 30 years, The Snowman has become a national institution, a heart-warming and moving tale of love, hope and imagination. Raymond Briggs’ sketches are brought wonderfully to life through expert animation alongside the legendary musical score by composer Howard Blake. The Snowman is the perfect present for all the family, sure to please young and old alike.

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…
It’s a Wonderful Life
ET the Extra – Terrestrial
Jesus Christ Superstar

TED (General, Dads, Teens, Sons)

One of the most original, outrageous and downright hilarious comedies to hit the screens in years, Ted is the inspired first motion picture from Seth MacFarlane, the creator of Family Guy. MacFarlane brings his boundary-pushing brand of humor to the big screen for the first time as writer, director and voice star of Ted. In the live action/CG-animated comedy, he tells the story of John Bennett (Mark Wahlberg), a grown man who must deal with the cherished teddy bear who came to life as the result of a childhood wish…and has refused to leave his side ever since.

If you think this would make the perfect present, why not also consider…
Jon Richardson – Funny Magnet
Kevin Bridges: The Story Continues…
The Bourne Legacy
Peter Kay: Live and Back on Nights

Celebrate 100 Years of Universal Studios with the Limited Edition 100 Movie Collection Box Set

In 2012, Universal Studios celebrates its 100th anniversary, and as part of the year-long Centennial celebration, Universal have put together this magnificent collection of films from the studio's rich legacy, beginning with the 1930s and Universal's first Best Picture Oscar winner All Quiet on the Western Front, all the way through to last year's most popular releases including the critical and commercial hits Bridesmaids and Senna.

Along the way, Universal's releases have included the classic Monster films from the 30s to the 40s (including Dracula and Bride of Frankenstein), Award-winning films such as To Kill A Mockingbird and The Sting as well as many great films from great filmmakers such as Peter Jackson (The Frighteners and King Kong), Ridley Scott (Gladiator and Robin Hood), Orson Welles (Citizen Kane and Touch of Evil), Martin Scorsese (Casino) and Steven Spielberg (Duel, Jaws, E.T. and Schindler's List).



From drug kingpins to King Kong, from toga parties to deadly sharks, from loveable extra-terrestrials to fearsome dinosaurs, from gladiators to 40-year-old virgins, Universal has kept audiences laughing and crying, cheering and covering our eyes for a glorious century.

This box set comes in a stunning hard-bound book of 25 double-page spreads (with four DVDs contained on each spread and many rare photos from Universal's library) as well as an exclusive poster featuring all 100 titles.

RRP: £399.99

CLASSIC FILMS AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE (GENERAL/TECH)

By putting a Blu-ray Player on your Christmas list this year you will get the chance to settle back to watch some classic award winning films which have been issued in high definition for the first time for the festive season.

From nine-time Academy Award nominee E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial which celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year to Hitchcock classics in a box set it would be scary to miss – legendary films can now be seen like never before with a digitally remastered picture that delivers six times the resolution of DVD, as well as amazing sound.

Movies out for this Christmas on Blu-ray include:

· Jaws
· Hitchcock Collection
· Monsters box set: Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, The Wolfman, The Mummy, The Invisible Man, Creature from the Black Lagoon and Phantom of the Opera)
· It’s a Wonderful Life
· Snowman
· All Quiet on the Western Front
· Schindler’s List
· Pillow Talk
· The Sting
· To Kill A Mockingbird (50th anniversary in 2012)

If you think they don’t make them like they used to you can still enjoy them even more thanks to 21st Century technology.

Your Opinions and Comments

Be the first to post a comment!