New movies to be released this week on DVD

August (2008) *1/2 Austin Chick’s underwhelming exploration of post-millennial angst is as empty and vacant as its protagonist’s inexpressive peepers.

Chicago 10 (2008) *** A vibrantly crafted evocation of a convulsive moment in 20th century American history, this film is far less interested in offering a fresh, probing look at what took place on the streets during the 1968 Democratic National Convention and the circus trial that followed than it is in celebrating the stars of the anti-war movement and rallying the current generation to follow their examples.

Gypsy Caravan (2007) *** Sounds great and if nothing else should help diminish the stereotype, blasted by the film’s subjects, of Gypsies as little more than pickpockets whom travelers need to be wary of.

Postal (2008) * Manages to be as toothless as director Uwe Boll is tasteless. Poorly framed, tone-deaf, and nonsensical, yet still Boll’s best!

Redbelt (2008) *** It’s a classic fight movie, with Chiwetel Ejiofor as an honorable martial arts instructor. But nesting inside is a sour little ‘70s-style David Mamet play about the lies, calculations, and ice-cold politics of Hollywood, as the fighter is befriended and then discarded by a callow movie star.

Son of Rambow (2008) *** A film that bristles with the anarchic energy of late childhood and a genuine respect for the life-changing power of movies — even (or especially) the schlocky ones.

What Happens in Vegas (2008) *1/2 As it is, this film is too restrained, too often — too eager to gallop toward postcard sunsets on the beach when tequila shooters and lap dances are what the moment calls for. You’d think the combination of Cameron Diaz, Ashton Kutcher and Las Vegas would be good for at least a little sexy, silly fun. But don’t bet on it.

Where in the World Is Osama Bin Laden? (2008) ** Morgan Spurlock, of the "Super Size Me" phenom, serves up a rehash of others’ 9/11 reportage, bin Laden biography, Islamic theology and suicide-bomber psychology, in a tone so aghast you’d assume he knew nothing about the War on Terror — which should this movie very appealing for those who know nothing about the War on Terror.