Black Friday is almost here, and like most people who love a good deal, you've mapped out your plan of attack (make sure this attack doesn't involve trampling). You know what you want, where to get it, and Thanksgiving dinner be damned, you're going to camp out in front of a store or in front of your computer. While we admire your enthusiasm, we have some suggestions for items you might want to add to your wish list. And they don't necessarily have to be for you; they could also be for someone you know.Adam, Dave, and I have nine items we'd like to recommend: three small items ("Stocking Stuffers"), three moderately priced items ("Under the Tree"), and three expensive items ("Extra Nice"). More importantly, we each have a charity to recommend since we truly believe it's better to give than to receive (unless you're receiving a trip to outer space; nothing beats a trip to outer space). Hit the jump to check out our 2013 Gift Guide.
Matt's Recommendations
Stocking Stuffers:
The Ref DVD
This is one of the best Christmas movies you probably haven't seen. You should certainly spend time watching other Christmas classics like A Christmas Story and Die Hard, but The Ref needs to be in your collection. Denis Leary plays a thief who kidnaps a husband (Kevin Spacey) and wife (Judy Davis) and ends up getting drawn into their marital strife. It's a damn funny film, but it also has surprising moments of powerful drama. Watch the movie once, and you'll probably make it part of your annual holiday viewing.
Scott Pilgrim Color Hardcover Volume 1: Precious Little Life by Bryan Lee O'Malley
I'm a huge Scott Pilgrim fan, and I have a couple t-shirts featuring the comic characters. Usually when I'm out wearing one of the shirts, someone will tell me how much they liked the movie. While that's music to my ears, I always mention they should also check out the source material. The black-and-white original paperbacks are certainly worth your time, but Oni Press has been re-releasing them in hardcover cover color versions. They're sturdy, Nathan Fairbairn's coloring is superb, and they contain a look at Bryan Lee O'Malley's development of the book.
LEGO 71002 Series 11 Mini Figures
The Ref and Scott Pilgrim are a little tough to fit into a stocking, but these little packets should find their way in with no problem (unless your stocking is an actual stocking, in which case that's somewhat odd). They're inexpensive, they're creative, they've got grab-bag appeal (the figures are random), and one from Series 11 contains a LEGO yeti. If I was lucky enough to get a LEGO yeti, my holiday season would be truly magical.
Under the Tree:
Universal Classic Monsters: The Essential Collection Blu-ray
Halloween has come and gone but Universal Classic Monsters are good all year round. The Blu-ray transfers on these movies are astounding. They've been cleaned up but not to the point where they lose their atmosphere, and if you want to get a comparison on how much better they look, the special features contain untouched footage. Speaking of the special features, they're insightful, funny, and most importantly, can lead you to movies that aren't in this box set like The Black Cat, The Old Dark House, and Son of Frankenstein.
Habibi by Craig Thompson
Habibi isn't just one of the best graphic novels I've ever read. It's one of the best books I've ever read, period. In some respects it's controversial, but I was swept away by the gorgeous visuals, the breadth of the storytelling, the blending of darkest realities with flights of fantasy, and the unusual, crucial love story in between. It's an easy read of difficult material, and unlike anything I've ever seen before. This is a prime example of a comic that wants to be a comic rather than something that could easily be turned into an adaptation. (Also, if you like Habibi, I highly recommend Thopmson's 2003 graphic novel, Blankets)
Portal 2 Miniature Portal Gun Replica with Fully Functional LED Lights and Sounds - Officially Licensed
Portal 2 is one of my favorite video games. The puzzles are challenging but never unfair, the co-op is a blast, the world is atmospheric, and the dialogue and characters are painfully hilarious. It also has a unique and iconic weapon in the portal gun. Aside from Gears of War's "Lancer", the "Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device" is probably the most memorable video game weapon of the past decade. The full-scale version is expensive and difficult to track down, but you can have a perfectly good miniature version for your desk. It lights up, makes the memorable firing noises, and comes with a nice stand. You should get it. For science.
Extra Nice:
Breaking Bad: The Complete Series +UltraViolet Digital Copy Blu-ray
In a recent video, Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan broke down what comes in The Complete Series box set, and even the disc cases are amazing (they overlap to form an image, and can be used as coasters). The set also contains all of the special features from the other releases plus another disc of exclusive material. Also, Gilligan didn't mention the set comes with UltraViolet digital copies (if you want to make UltraViolet useful, download Vudu to your Xbox, PlayStation 3, mobile devices, etc.), which is nice if you don't have Netflix. Yes, all of the episodes are available on the popular streaming service, but Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has made a compelling case for why you should pick up this hard copy.
The Complete Calvin and Hobbes Box Set
Calvin and Hobbes is arguably the best newspaper comic strip ever made. That's not to diminish the importance of newspaper comics like The Spirit and Peanuts, but in the modern era, Bill Watterson broke the boundaries of panels on his Sunday strips while making brilliant, eye-popping use of color. More importantly, his stories were remarkably insightful considering the simple premise of a young boy and his imaginary tiger playing around. It's at turns wry, cute, cutting, and always charming. The book is available both in paperback and hardcover, but if you're going to get the full collection, I'd recommend the longer-lasting hardcover.
LEGO Creator Palace Cinema
This was just a good mash-up for me since I like LEGO and movies, but damn wasn't this fun to build. There are some folks who like building models, and somehow they don't break from the frustration of painting tiny pieces and gluing them together. I prefer my toy models to easily snap together, and I got between nine to ten hours out of putting this LEGO together. The interior is detailed with concessions, a movie screen, a projector room and more. All that's really missing is a mini-figure on a cell phone, which wouldn't be too bad because you could decapitate him.
If you're wondering what the model looks like in real life, here's a photo of mine:
Better to Give
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
I'm recommending Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, specifically the Family Library. Giving anything to CHOA is wonderful and I wouldn't want to discourage anyone from doing so, but speaking from personal experience, the Family Library is unique because it keeps movies and books in circulation. It's a way to give hospitalized kids and their families a more than welcome to distraction, and donating is a direct way to help them.
The Family Library accepts used DVDs and books, and you can send them to
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
c/o Egleston Family Library
1405 Clifton Rd., N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30322
You can also donate through CHOA's Amazon Wish List, and if you're donating a book or movie, you can put "To the Family Library".
Click over to Page 2 for Adam's picks, and read along to Page 3 for Dave's picks.
Collider Gift Guide 2013:
What to Receive and Where to Give
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Adam's Recommendations
Stocking Stuffers
In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex
This is the perfect gift for non-fiction buffs, as author Nathaniel Philbrick’s harrowing account of the early 1800s whaleship Essex disaster is incredibly fascinating. The real-life account of the Essex’s encounter with an angry sperm whale inspired Herman Melville to write Moby Dick, and the survivors of the Essex found themselves adrift at sea for months, leading to starvation, dehydration, and eventually cannibalism. Reading the book will also prepare you for director Ron Howard’s upcoming feature film adaptation, which stars Chris Hemsworth and Benjamin Walker. The book is a fantastic read that I highly recommend.
The Social Network (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) Blu-ray
Director David Fincher and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin’s 2010 collaboration is one of the best films of the past decade, but the Blu-ray release of the film comes complete with a stay-at-home film school for any burgeoning cinephiles. The feature-length documentary on the making of The Social Network is a fantastic resource for those interested in the development and production of feature films, as viewers get an intimate look into rehearsals, script meetings, production, and more from one of the best filmmakers working today. It’s also worth noting that the Blu-ray releases of Fincher’s other films—most notably The Curious Case of Benjamin Button—include fascinating feature-length behind-the-scenes documentaries as well, but watching Fincher and Sorkin hash out the themes and motivations behind the characters in The Social Network is a thing of beauty.
Under the Tree
Tarantino XX: 8-Film Collection (Reservoir Dogs / True Romance / Pulp Fiction / Jackie Brown / Kill Bill: Vol. 1 / Kill Bill: Vol. 2 / Death Proof / Inglourious Basterds) Blu-ray
While the odds are good that you or your friends already own some of Quentin Tarantino’s films on Blu-ray, this box set is worth buying for the packaging alone. The fantastic Mondo cover art on the box and on each disc is excellent, and this is a great way to keep your Tarantino library all together. The box set includes every Tarantino-directed film except for Django Unchained, and it also includes the Tarantino-penned True Romance. For eight movies on Blu-ray plus print-worthy artwork, this thing is a steal.
Guillermo del Toro Cabinet of Curiosities: My Notebooks, Collections, and Other Obsessions
This gorgeous peek into the wonderfully creative mind of Guillermo del Toro makes for one hell of a coffee table book. Filled with drawings from del Toro’s personal notebooks, Cabinet of Curiosities goes film-by-film through del Toro’s filmography up through Pacific Rim. The book also includes thoughtful passages by some of del Toro’s friends, including Alfonso Cuaron, James Cameron, and Tom Cruise. There’s even a section for del Toro films that have yet to be made, offering a look at what might be/could have been (yes, At the Mountains of Madness is included). This is an excellent gift for anyone with a passion for the arts, in any form.
The Art of Pixar: 25th Anniv.: The Complete Color Scripts and Select Art from 25 Years of Animation
Speaking of art, this collection of color scripts and select artwork from the past 25 years of Pixar films also makes for a swell coffee table addition, especially for animation aficionados. It’s easy to get lost for hours in the gorgeous imagery on display in this book, which chronicles every Pixar movie up through Cars 2 as well as many of the studio’s short films. The book is divided in two halves, the first being the color scripts (which are an overview of the colors used in each scene of a movie), and the second being selected artwork from the films, including concept art and storyboards.
Extra Nice
The West Wing: The Complete Series Collection
I’ve loaned my personal copy of this complete series DVD set to numerous friends over the years, and not one of them has had a less than enthusiastic reaction to Aaron Sorkin’s endlessly entertaining political drama. It’s not only a smart and insightful show, but it’s also flat-out hilarious. The cast is incredible, and while the quality dips in season five after the departure of Sorkin, the show finds a different but still compelling groove in its final two seasons. You don’t have to be into politics to appreciate The West Wing, but this would be a particularly solid gift for those who have plans to one day join the ranks of those working in the capital.
Alfred Hitchcock: The Masterpiece Collection Blu-ray
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Here’s something a bit more expensive for movie lovers, but it’s a fantastic resource nonetheless. The Masterpiece Collection includes 14 films from legendary director Alfred Hitchcock, including Vertigo, Rope, Shadow of a Doubt, Rear Window, Psycho, The Man Who Knew Too Much, and many more, all of which are worth poring over on repeat viewings. Additionally, each film comes loaded with extras including newsreel footage, photographs, and excerpts from the Hitchcock-Truffaut interview. Even if you’re not a Hitchcock superfan, The Masterpiece Collection is an invaluable look into the process of one of the best directors of all time.
Better to Give
Best Friends Animal Society
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I recommend donating to the Best Friends Animal Society, an organization committed to rescuing pets and finding them good homes in an effort to reduce the number of animals that are killed at shelters. We’ve already seen how terribly animals can be treated in the movie industry, and there are millions of homeless pets under the threat of euthanasia every day. If you’re thinking about getting a dog or a cat, I implore you to consider adoption rather than purchasing one from a breeder. You’ll be saving a life, and by donating to Best Friends Animal Society, you can aid even more pets in finding homes.
Click over to Page 3 for Dave's picks.
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What to Receive and Where to Give
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Dave's Recommendations
Stocking Stuffers
Movie Theater Gift Card
It goes without saying that a trip to the movie theater can be friggin' expensive these days. Â Sure, there are plenty of reasons to stay in and watch a movie on any number of on-demand content providers, but when cabin fever inevitably sets in, sometimes a theatrical experience is just the ticket! Â Chain theaters might be the most prevalent, but if there's a local indie theater in your neighborhood, I'd bet dollars to donuts they could use your support even more. Â Call them up and see if they offer gift certificates, and do it fast before they all close their doors for good!
Online Content-Streaming Subscription
Hey, remember that time I said you should support your local theater before digital content providers run them out of business? Â Yeah, well you should still do that, but that doesn't mean online streaming providers like Netflix/Hulu/Amazon Prime/etc. aren't worthwhile. Â For those friends and family members who are still on the fence about cutting the cable, drop an inexpensive one-month subscription in their stockings to give them a taste! Â Watch(, they'll be hooked) instantly!
Jayne's Hat from Joss Whedon's FireflyÂ
Years after Firefly completed its ill-fated television run, it continues to go strong on streaming channels.  The fan following is so strong, in fact, that indie crafters the world over continue to churn out these infamous hats, sported by Adam Baldwin's Jayne Cobb.  I found this officially licensed one over at Think Geek, which should keep you out of the crosshairs of any ensuing legal battles over the merchandise rights. Tis the season!
Under the Tree
Google Chromecast HDMI Streaming Media Player
For those of you who don't already own a device that allows streaming content to play on your TV (seeing a theme here?), this little plug-and-play device allows you to stream video and music from your smartphone, tablet or laptop to your television set. Â At $35, the Chromecast is a cheaper option than other streaming devices, like Sony's PS3 and PS4, Microsoft's XBox series, the Roku players, TiVo or Apple TV. (Price isn't the only item of import, however, so check out CNet's review of streaming devices here.)
Ray Harryhausen Collection + BD Live (20 Million Miles to Earth, Earth vs. Flying Saucers, It Came from Beneath the Sea, 7th Voyage of Sinbad) Blu-ray
If you're not familiar with the incredible work of the late Ray Harryhausen, may I first suggest you check out the documentary, Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan (which is available on Netflix).  Then, once you're inevitably blown away by his body of work, pick up four of his classic films in Ray Harryhausen Collection on Blu-ray, featuring 20 Million Miles to Earth, Earth vs. Flying Saucers, It Came from Beneath the Sea, and 7th Voyage of Sinbad.
Amazon Prime (One Year Membership)
While the "Jelly of the Month Club" might be the original gift that keeps on giving the whole year, an Amazon Prime Membership comes in at a close second. Â Not only do you get access to the content provider's streaming library (which is complementary to a Netflix and Hulu Plus subscription), but you'll enjoy a year's worth of free eligible shipping and the ability to borrow books from the Kindle Owners' Lending Library. Â Give the gift that pays for itself over and over by buying a gift card that will cover the cost of a Prime membership.
Extra Nice
Kindle
Speaking of Amazon Kindles, how about gifting one for the holidays? Â There's plenty of options available at Amazon's Kindle store, from the Kindle Fire tablets to a variety of Kindle e-readers. Â We've got more ways than ever to consume movie and television content, but it's been tough to improve on the good old-fashion book, until now. Â Not only can you store hundreds of books and take them with you wherever you go, but Prime members can also enjoy books borrowed through Amazon's library. Â I know I sound like a shill, but I've got a third-gen that I absolutely love and take with me during all of my cross-country travels. Â Definitely worth the price!
Hand-Made Items from the Offerman Wood Shop
Folks certainly know about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but did you know that the Saturday after Thanksgiving has been known as Small Businesses Saturday for the last few years? Â Well, now you do! Â And to bridge the divide between Hollywood and small business, we present the Offerman Wood Shop, home to the multi-talented Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation). Â You might initially balk at the prices of their wares, but keep in mind that the wood they use is sustainable and locally sourced, and that each unique item is hand-carved. Â You're paying for craftsmanship, a one-of-a-kind heirloom quality item, and the modest wage of the woodworker.
Trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Remember when NFL players who won the Super Bowl would go to Disney World? Â Well now they're just as likely to go to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort. Â Sure, reading J.K. Rowling's series of novels allows the reader to imagine Harry's world, and watching the eight film adaptations bring that world to life on screen, but to actually walk through a life-size recreation of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade is worth the price of admission!
Better to Give
Canine Companions for Independence
The holidays are a great time to divert some of that gift-buying cash to some worthwhile charities.  By all means, throw your spare change into the Salvation Army's kettles, cut your annual check to United Way and volunteer your time and money at the local soup kitchen.  For a lesser-known charity, you might want to check out Canine Companions for Independence.  The non-profit organization aims to "enhance the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships."  I raised three puppies as part of my high school service project back in the day, one of which went on to become a successful therapy dog.  Since then, the charity has done well, but can always use help from generous donors like yourselves.  Head over to the main site for much more information - including their Wounded Veterans Initiative - and find out how you can donate here.