DVD release - Sideways [Premium Edition] (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment) available on April 2, 2010

Given the mildly bizarre cultural redundancy, it seems unlikely that the Japanese remake of Alexander Payne’s Sideways will ever generate enough buzz for a western DVD release. However, those of you with a genuine interest in watching Cellin Gluck’s recent take on the 2004 film will be able to order a subtitled version from Japan. 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment will be releasing two versions on DVD this April: the Standard Edition; which includes the new film plus special features, and the Premium Edition; which includes both the original film, remake, and special features.

Plot: A middle-aged screenwriter named Michio (Fumiyo Kohinata) travels to California to attend the wedding of his friend Daisuke (Katsuhisa Namase). Daisuke wants to make the most out of his remaining days as a bachelor, so the two decide to go on a trip through wineries in Napa Valley (changed from Santa Barbara to be more recognizable to Japanese audiences) to discover themselves. Eventually they meet two women, Mina (Rinko Kikuchi) and Mayuko (Kyoka Suzuki), who come along for the ride.

Specs: Region 2, NTSC, anamorphic widescreen, DVD-9, 2 discs. Japanese audio with selectable English subtitles (main movie only). Features include audio commentary by cast, TV special “Mankitsu! Gokujo Wine & Gourmet Iyashi no Tabi”, press conference footage, and interview with main cast. Premium Edition also includes 2004 film with original booklet.

Trailer:

Available at the following retailer(s) on April 2, 2010: