Another Christmas, another scramble to buy stocking fillers, right? It's OK, calm down, we've all been there. Thankfully though, we here at CeX are up for giving you some gift ideas. Fancy on buying someone a BluRay or DVD this year? Check out our buyers guide below!
Guardians of the Galaxy
Why should I buy it?: Though not as well known as the likes of Iron Man, Captain America or The Hulk, the Guardians of the Galaxy is probably the best Marvel film to date. It's not set on boring ass Earth, it's genuinely hilarious, it stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Salanda and Dave Bautista who are backed up by Vin Diesel playing a tree-like creature and Bradley Cooper playing a talking raccoon, it has excellent CGI and a fantastic soundtrack, and it's more or less entirely free from the story The Avengers is revving up. Basically, it's one of the best adventure films of the past decade.
Who should I buy it for?: Like the rest of Marvels films, almost anyone can enjoy Guardians of the Galaxy. Regardless of age, gender or level of interest in superhero films, it will likely please most people who give it a chance. That said, anyone who is looking for a comedy sci-fi will eat it up.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition
Why should I buy it?: OK, I get it, The Hobbit series is not good as The Lord of the Rings. I know. But Predator 2 isn't as good as the original Predator, but hey, it's still fun, right? This second instalment of Peter Jackson's adaptation of The Hobbit has now been released with extra footage, in-depth making-of documentaries and general behind-the-scenes content. Still, even beyond the extras the film itself is huge fun, and packed full of stunning visuals, great performances, Orc slaying and Benedict Cumberbatch playing a fire breathing dragon, cos why not?
Who should I buy it for?: Though most people will enjoy The Desolation of Smaug, fans of fantasy films will get the most out of it. From fans of The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, anyone who enjoys their films to feature either magic, creatures or just fun adventure will love it.
22 Jump Street
Why should I buy it?: Another year, another Jump Street. 22 Jump Street sees the undercover cops enrolling into college to take down a drug dealer known as WHYPHY. The premise in itself is the perfect set-up for a good few laughs, and Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum just run with it, and not only come across like they're having a lot of fun making the film, but also massive real life bros.
Who should I buy it for?: Looking for a comedy this Christmas? 22 Jump Street has enough laughs to suit just about everyone, and though it isn't high art, it's still a cut above most comedis that were out this year. Buy it for person who wants to treat everyone to an after dinner laugh.
The Raid 2
Why should I buy it?: To put it simply, you should buy it because it's one of the best action films ever. Seriously. It's up there with the likes of Predator, Die Hard, Die Hard with a Vengeance, Terminator 2, Conan the Barbarian and Captain America: The Winter Soldier. It's balls-to-the-wall martial arts action at its best, and it improves on the first one in every way imaginable.
Who should I buy it for?: Be they male or female, buy it for the film watcher that wants their body count high, their ass kicking fast and furious and their story relegated to mere window dressing. It's not so-bad-it's-good like some other enjoyable actions film either, as it's some of the most thrilling, vicious and awesome action I've ever seen on film.
Doctor Who: Season Eight
Why should I buy it?: After getting sick to death of seeing Matt Smiths cherub-like face, the latest incarnation of The Doctor is played by Peter Capaldi, and so far he's doing it excellently. Doctor Who Season Eight does have its missteps, but overall it's an excellent introduction to this older Doctor, a Doctor who seems to have a darker side to his personality unlike we've ever seen before. Featuring adventures that have The Doctor and his companion, Clara, go up against Mummies, giant spiders, Cybermen and, of course, Daleks, it's light, entertaining and perfect post-Christmas dinner entertainment.
Who should I buy it for?: Everyone loves Doctor Who. This is a fact. If you put this on after Christmas dinner this year, I can guarantee you that everyone's eyes in the room will be fixed on the TV. Whether it's for a younger or older viewer, Doctor Who offers the kind of fun that appeals to us all, and this season offers it up in spades.
The Fault in Our Stars
Why should I buy it?: This is the tearjerker of the list. The film focuses on two teenagers who, after meeting up at a Cancer support group, fall in love. It's an incredibly bittersweet film, as why their love is often moving and tender, the looming shadow that their cancer might end their love is always present. Filled with plenty of emotional scenes and superb performances, A Fault in Our Stars has a lot of heart.
Who should I buy it for?: This is the film for anyone who isn't afraid of the idea of crying while watching a film. It's for anyone who is open to a film stirring emotions within them. It should be for everyone, but not everyone wants to feel that while watching a film, sadly. Buy it for someone close to you.
