tv + media

short circuits

New and noteworthy experiences among home video, games, gadgets and the Web.

 

Video

Looking for more bite

As Count Dracula, Adam Sandler turns in a blandly unobjectionable — if toothless — voice performance in “Hotel Transylvania.”

As Jonathan, a young American backpacker who accidentally wanders into Dracula’s castle — set up as a hotel for monsters seeking refuge from human persecution — Andy Samberg does his best to animate his innocuous persona. Selena Gomez brings more personality to the role of Dracula’s daughter, Mavis, a “teenager” celebrating her 118th birthday while chafing at her father’s overprotectiveness.

Of course, she and Jonathan fall in love, leading to — well, not terribly much. It’s something of a shame. “Hotel Transylvania” is entertaining enough for the trick-or-treat crowd, but more bite wouldn’t kill it.

The DVD and Blu-ray (Sony, $31-$56) include the mini-movie “Goodnight Mr. Foot” and commentary.

Washington Post

Also out Tuesday

Movies: “The Awakening,” “Cold Light of Day,” “Madly Madagascar,” “Paranormal Activity 4,” “Seven Psychopaths.”

TV: “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns” (Part 2), “The Completely Mental Misadventures of Ed Grimley,” “Downton Abbey” (Season 3), “Misfits” (Season 2), “Pan Am” (Season 1), “Young Riders” (Season 3).

Blu-ray debuts: “Die Hard: 25th Anniversary Collection,” “The Duelists,” “That Obscure Object of Desire,” “White Zombie.”

 

Gadget

Everything in its place

The iHome Smart Brief shoulder bag (www.ihomecases.com, $100) is as gadget- and organization-friendly as any ever made. Like everything else the company makes, the bag is Apple-compatible and designed with what seems like an endless number of pockets for chargers, cables and accessories along with a laptop and iPad. Your laptop is kept in a separate compartment, which zippers open, enabling it to be airport-security-friendly. A shoulder strap is included, or use the handles for carrying the stylish two-tone nylon, slim-profile bag.