![Amazing Stories Book Two (Go to the Head of the Class, Family Dog) [VHS]](/515AT68GXBLSL500.jpg)
Most of this second volume of stories from the 1985-87 television anthology series is a middling offering from former Steven Spielberg protégé Robert Zemeckis, who later won an Oscar for directing Forrest Gump. (Spielberg was the creator of Amazing Stories.) Zemeckis's episode is a bit of schlock horror called "Go to the Head of the Class," and while it stars Christopher Lloyd in a fiendish role as a decapitated teacher, and an atypical part for Mary Stuart Masterson as a manipulative teenage babe, there isn't much that sticks to the ribs. The real treat on Book 2, however, is the animated "Family Dog," directed by the little-known Brad Bird but supervised by Tim Burton long before he became a household name. A witty and observant satire on family dysfunction as seen through the eyes of a pet pooch and perennial scapegoat, "Family Dog" follows the misadventures of a sweet-natured mutt just trying to fit in with his human housemates but betrayed at every turn. Tormented by a bratty boy, prodded by an exuberant toddler, and an easy target for an unhappy mom and duplicitous dad, the dog can't get a break. Burton's dark sensibilities are certainly in play, and the animation--while owing something to Warner and Disney--is novel and expressive. One needn't worry about young viewers watching this one: there's no physical brutality and the comedy always prevails. Plus, the ending proves, definitively, that every dog does indeed have his day. --Tom Keogh
Price: $19.98
Tosh is currently one of the most requested comic headliners in the country and has evolved into one of the most popular and successful college acts, performing at over 700 campuses. He's appeared multiple times on Letterman and Leno, and was recently seen on MTV's "Punk'd". Previous TV credits include "The Late, Late Show With Craig Kilborn", "Jimmy Kimmel Live", "Last Call With Carson Daly", "Premium Blend", "The Best Week Ever", "The Test", and "Friday Night Stand-Up". All his best material (over 50 minutes) on one CD. The DVD compiles his best Comedy Central performances, including the highly rated "Comedy Central Presents".