Hundreds of needy families were treated to a warm meal on a dreary Christmas Eve as part of the Los Angeles Mission Christmas Celebration on Skid Row.

"It feels blessed. It feels good," said Dracy Williams, recipient. "We out here in the rain and we just blessed, me and my family."

Williams and her family waited in the rain since 4 a.m. Monday, determined to secure a spot at the feast.

Donate, Volunteer: Los Angeles Mission

Dinner preparations began at about 4:30 a.m. About 4,000 meals made with 2,000 pounds of chicken and 600 pounds of green beans and carrots were served, beginning at 11 a.m., by hundreds of volunteers during the annual holiday tradition.

Volunteers also wrapped and distributed toys to children at the Mission.

"It's a chance to get together with other people in the neighborhood," said Herb Smith, of the LA Mission. "It's a sense of hope. It lets them know that people care."

Actress Melissa Gilbert, best known for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on the NBC series Little House on the Prairie, volunteered as well.

"People are just in so much pain. We’ve got whole families out here, with children. And that, that’s wrong," Gilbert told NBC4. "So if there’s something I can do to let them know someone really cares, I’ll do it."

Christmas wasn't stolen by a Grinch after all for some 200 underprivileged children, after donors came through in time to replace stolen gifts before a Saturday holiday party.

The 10th annual "Jingle Bash," held by nonprofit An Open Door, went ahead as planned after a devastating discovery this week: Thieves had taken dozens of bags of gifts intended for needy kids.

But after the loss was reported by Los Angeles news media, donors stepped up.

The California Highway Patrol and Toys for Tots not only replaced the toys, they brought in even more than An Open Door founder Makeda Murray had originally had stashed in her garage.

One individual even came by with 60 board games on Saturday, when An Open Door held its party for some 200 children at Angeles Mesa Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles' View Park-Windsor Hills area.

Children posed with Santa, played bingo, ate cake and got their faces painted. And they all got presents.

The toys were stolen earlier this week from Murray's Marina del Rey garage.

"I was devastated. I didn't know what to do – the party was going to be in a day and a half," Murray said. "When people heard what happened, they got involved."

At Saturday's event, there were hundreds of presents, plus so much clothing and shoes that An Open Door will donate the surplus to an orphanage in Mexico.

The organization was founded by Murray when she wanted to help her LA public elementary school students.

"I was inspired by their tenacity ... and genuine love," Murray said.

To support An Open Door, go to the organization's website.

Air travel this year will be more festive thanks to new TSA standards that allow small snow globes and pies in carry-on luggage.

With 1.8 million travelers and 2.2 million carry-ons passing through security checkpoints every day, according to the Transportation Security Administration, travelers are urged to prep their luggage accordingly to avoid being the Grinch that slows down the security line.

This year, if snow globes appear to hold less than 3.4 ounces of liquid -- about the size of a tennis ball -- and fit in a quart-sized, clear bag, they’re OK.

Solid foods, like pies, fruitcakes, cookies, turkey and ham, are also allowed on the plane. But jams, jellies, curds, sauces and dips still have to abide by the 3.4-ounce rule, travel in a checked bag or be shipped ahead of time.

If "you can spill it, spread it, smear it, squeeze it, spray it, pump it, or pour it," then travelers should check it, TSA's Lisa Farbstein told KPCC.

Travelers are urged to wait ‘til they arrive to wrap gift because while they are allowed in carry-on bags, if an agent needs to take a closer look at a concealed present, travelers will have to rewrap the gift when they land.

Firearms, weapons, sharp objects and these items are still prohibited, no matter the season.

These quintessential holiday items are cleared to fly in travelers’ carry-on luggage:

• Glass ornaments
• Cookies
• Pies, cakes, bread, doughnuts
• Turkey
• Unwrapped presents
• Snow globes about the size of a tennis ball
• Garland
• Lights
• Cookware, crockpots, casserole dishes, etc.
• Candles
• Egg nog (if less than 3.4 ounces)

The following items are not allowed in carry-on luggage:

• Wrapped presents (They’re allowed in carry-ons, but if an agent wants a closer look, you’ll have to rewrap it when you land)
• Jams, jellies, cranberry sauce, maple syrup, dips and spreads (including cheeses and peanut butter)
• Gift baskets with edible items
• Snow globes larger than 3.4 ounces
• Matches
• Knives
• Wine, liquor and beer

If you're not sure if one of your items is allowed in carry-on luggage, the TSA has a search engine on its homepage that allows travelers to type in an item and get an answer. The agency also has a mobile app.

The gift of lower fuel prices arrived in time for Southern California holiday travelers, a record number of which are expected over the next two weeks.

Travel Resources: Flight Tracker | Traffic Page | Weather Page | TSA Dos and Don'ts

The Automobile Club of Southern California projects a 1.8-percent increase over 2011 in the number of Southern Californians traveling 50 miles or more this holiday season. That's nearly 7.3 million Southern California travelers through the end of 2012.

The travel season ramps up as gas prices dropped to their lowest levels for 2012, according to AAA. That doesn't mean fuel will be a bargain for the estimated 6.5 million Southern Californians who will travel by car this holiday season, just that fuel will be less expensive than three months ago during a price spike.

The state average for a gallon of regular fuel Thursday is at $3.53, $1.14 lower than the record price set Oct. 9. The region has seen 10 consecutive weeks of decreasing fuel prices.

"We have seen California wholesale gas prices jump up by nearly 20 cents in the last couple of days, but as of today there is still room in the margin between wholesale and retail for further price declines," said Auto Club spokesperson Jeffrey Spring.

In the Los Angeles-Long Beach area, a gallon of regular fuel was priced at $3.59 per gallon -- 23 cents lower than last month, but 4 cents higher than this time last year.

The five most-popular destinations for SoCal travelers:

1. Las Vegas
2. San Francisco
3. San Diego
4. Grand Canyon
5. Central Coast (Santa Barbara to Monterey)

There are exactly three places that are more Christmas-cute than Farmers Market (and the adjacent Grove) come December. They are: 1. Santa's North Pole workshop. 2. Any year-round store that sells tons of ornaments. 3. The inside of a snow globe.

But the quaint landmark at Third & Fairfax is a very close fourth. Why? Let's start with the fact that it feels Christmas-cozy all year long. You can get holiday-type treats there, including old-fashioned fudge, regardless of the season.

And when the yuletide itself arrives? The stall-lined market goes to town. Carolers in ye olde Victorian garb show up to warble. Doo wop and cowboy bands take the West Patio stage to summon the spirit. And kid-friendly shows and activities fill the clocktower-close Plaza.

This is all free, mind you, like Farmers Market is every single day. The food is not, but you've been there, right? The eating is inexpensive. Please. We can eat a delicious roasted yam and a good-sized piece of toffee for under a fiver. Yeah, we're bragging.

The dates for the Farmers Market Christmas shindig will run from Thursday, Dec. 20 through Monday, Dec. 24. Times will vary, so you'll want to plan ahead. Oh, and the mariachis arrive on Christmas Eve. We implore you to make a date for the mariachis, if you can. If you haven't ever heard mariachis inside Farmers Market, you need to do so immediately, and feel enriched.

Don't forget to pick up your toffee and wine, and hang around long enough to hear the clocktower play a carol at the top of the hour. It's special.

Singing and dancing, for free, at the Music Center Plaza is a staple of summertime. If someone isn't doing the Hustle or warbling a Beatles tun on some warm Friday night, it hardly seems like July in Los Angeles.

Which means that the annual Music Center Holiday Sing-Along can sneak up on one, a bit. It's in the winter, as the word "holiday" indicates, and it isn't in a series like its summertime brethren.

But, like its summertime brethren, it is free. It's set for Friday, Dec. 21.

Tickets will be required, despite the evening's free-ness, so be sure to nab those on the day of. Also, lyrics sheets will be handed out, but we're just betting you know a lot of the words to "Jingle Bells," "Christmas Time Is Here," and "The Twelve Days of Christmas" (well, practically everybody accidentally jumps to the drummers drumming when they mean the maids a-milking, so perhaps those lyric sheets will come in handy).

Keep in mind, though, that this is not summertime, so you'll need to scarf it up. And if you don't see a Santa hat or two in the crowd, we'll eat our lyrics sheet. Well, not really. We need to know all the words to "The Twelve Days of Christmas."

If you return to the area on Monday, Dec. 24, you can catch another free tradition: The LA County Holiday Celebration. It marks its 53rd year at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on Christmas Eve.

While everyone enjoys Christmas, it's ultimately a holiday that thrives on the happiness of children. From remote-controlled helicopters and tablets to the latest video games, kids these days have eclectic tastes. Quite the difference from the days of Teddy Ruxpin.

Here's our guide to get that special little tike the perfect gift this season.

Furby: This is not your '90s Furby. This one interacts with your iPod touch, iPad and iPhone and comes with a free app so you can play games with it and even feed it. Fear not you digitally defunct parents, there's still plenty to do with the toy without the app.

Boo: If you've seen the adorable pup on Facebook, you know your little one will find her just as charming. At nine inches tall, it's extremely close to the same size as the dog and is extremely lifelike.

Nerf Firevision Football: This makes a great gift for a younger football fan or even a teen. Armed with a pair of glasses that will allow you to see the ball in the dark, the Firevision football makes sure the fun never has to stop. Even cooler, there are different color glasses, so kids can coordinate their own teams for an even cooler experience.

LeapPad2 Explorer: Is your youngin' addicted to your iPad? Why not get them a tablet of their own? This one however will help them learn and comes prepackaged with tons of apps with games and learning exercises. Acting as a playful distraction, it plays music and video, and has a front and back camera to take photos and record video.

Air Hogs R/C Heli Replay: Radio-controlled helicopters are extremely expensive in hobby shops, but Airhogs makes durable products that can be flown anywhere in the house and outside. This helicopter turns your smart phone into your remote and makes for a great first experience into model aviation for children of all ages. It's also something adults will enjoy playing with.

Remote Control Machines: Another great gift for kids of all ages, Thames and Kosmos' radio controlled machines allow you to make your own remote controlled, well, anything. Using your imagination and a box full of small motors and building pieces, you can create a bulldozer, car, three-wheeler, crane, antique car, plow, folding car, formula one racer, three-blade dozer, and even a robotic arm. The set is also compatible with the company's previous kits, making it perfect for family to buy expansions.

GIFT GUIDE: DVDS FOR THE KIDS

Skylanders Giants Starter Pack: This isn't your normal video game. Accessible on a console, on the web and mobile, it's essentially the closest thing to a Massively Multiplayer Role-Playing Game a child could have. Figures, placed on a stand, come alive on the television screen. With a plethora of figures and characters, there are limitless ways to play.

Y-Volution YFliker F1 Scooter: This is one cool scooter. Coming in a variety of colors and sporting a sturdy three-wheel design, it'll keep your kids outside and active.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Secret Sewer Lair Playset: This is simply a mammoth toy set. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back in a huge way and this set will allow your kids to have their imagination run wild at the Turtles' home. For those '80s babies, it's also a fun way to reconnect with your favorite childhood superheroes and share the fun with your kids.

WWE Brawlin' Buddies: Wrestling isn't the safest thing for your kids to do, but these soft, cuddly versions of their favorite WWE Superstars will make wrasslin' a walk in the park. The dolls even speak their signature catchphrases and "battle sounds."

Remember sitting on Santa's lap while your mom or dad wielded a camera and waited for your big Christmastime grin -- only to see you burst into tears and ruin it all?

Or maybe you've been the parent, snapping away as your child's holiday glee turned to terror at St. Nick.

Well, NBC4 wants to see those photos. It's all we want for Christmas.

Send us your best Santa photo failures, and we will post them here at NBCLA.com. The best of the best will even appear on air during our newscasts.

Here's how to get your photos to us:

• Email your photos to isee@nbcla.com
• Upload them on our website here
• Post them on our Facebook wall
• Or tweet them to us at @NBCLA with the hashtag #santaphotofail.

Thank you!

"Casablanca"
Celebrating its 70th Anniversary, the film that many consider to be one of the greatest screen love stories of all time thanks to defining performances from stars Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, continues to feel as exotic and romantic as ever. Now in a new transfer to Blu-Ray, the 1942 classic comes in both a single disc package and an elaborate three-disc limited edition collector’s set that features more than 45 minutes of brand-new bonus content alongside nearly nine hours of documentary, as well as a treasure trove of collectible memorabilia.

"Alfred Hitchcock: The Masterpiece Collection"
The Master of Suspense at last receives an extravagant Blu-Ray treatment, collecting most of the crème of his directorial crop in one lavish high-def assemblage: 15 of Hitch’s finest, most notably his masterworks “Vertigo,’ “Psycho,” “Rear Window,” “North By Northwest” and “The Birds.” Each disc is filled to overflowing with commentaries, documentaries featurettes and archival elements, and the set includes a 50-page book spotlighting the behind-the-scenes ephemera from the filmmaker’s legendary oeuvre. For Hitchcock completists, additional titles in his acclaimed filmography not included in the set have also seen recent releases, including “Notorious,” “Rebecca,” “Spellbound,” “Dial M for Murder” and “Strangers On a Train.”

"Singin’ In the Rain"
After 60 uncontested years as the most beloved movie musical ever made, Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor’s song-and-dance sequences are more dazzling than ever in a new Blu-Ray transfer. The Ultimate Collector’s Edition box set lives up to its billing: along with the expected wealth of commentaries, outtakes, extras and a brand-new documentary, it also includes an essential tool for keeping sunny when it’s soggy outside – an umbrella.

"Tarantino XX"
Even if you already own every one of maverick writer-director Quentin Tarantino’s eight groundbreaking, genre-busting films included in this set commemorating 20 years of quintessentially cool cinema – “Reservoir Dogs,” “Pulp Fiction,” “Jackie Brown,” “Kill Bill, Vol. 1,” “Kill Bill, Vol, 2,” “Death Proof,” “Inglorious Basterds” and the Tarantino-penned, Tony Scott-directed “True Romance” – there’s plenty of new stuff to film-geek out over, like two full bonus discs exploring the filmmaker’s revolutionary career.

"The Postman Always Rings Twice"
One of the most influential crime noir tales of all time, author James M. Cain’s steamy pulp classic still sizzles with the Blu-Ray bow of its 1946 big-screen adaptation, with sultry, platinum blonde Lana Turner embodying the ultimate film femme fatale who lures hapless drifter John Garfield into her knotty, duplicitous scheme to rid herself of her increasingly unnecessary husband.

"Sunset Boulevard"
Writer-director Billy Wilder’s mesmerizing portrait of a delusional Hollywood has-been (Gloria Swanson) drawing an opportunistic almost-was (William Holden) into a web of self-delusion remains both a pitch-black dark comedy and seminal film noir tragedy. Along with in-depth bonus material and a restoration designed to best convey the black-and-white film’s contrasting lights and darks, the most arcane extra is a song penned by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans for the film that was cut for fear of being too inside-Hollywood for 1950s audiences.

"Bond 50"
To mark five decades of espionage, action, girls and gadgets, this comprehensive collection of the world’s most enduring film franchise includes all 22 of 007’s cinematic missions – from Sean Connery’s debut performance as James Bond in 1962’s “Dr. No” to Daniel Craig’s second turn as the secret agent in 2008’s “Quantum of Solace” and every official Bond film – including those featuring George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan – in between, along with more than 130 hours of bonus dossiers.

"Francis Ford Coppola: 5-Disc Collection"
A quintet of classics from the visionary filmmaker whose epic scope and intimate touch changed the way movies were made in the 1970s. Even when two of the five are variant versions of the same film – 1979’s Vietnam opus “Apocalypse Now” and 2001’s significantly extended “Apocalypse Now Redux” – the set delivers a far-reaching look at the director’s output over several decades, including the ‘70s (“The Conversation"), the 80s (“One From the Heart”) and the 2000s (“Tetro”).

"Lawrence of Arabia"
Director David Lean’s magnificent telling of the desert adventures of T.E. Lawrence during World War I celebrates its 50th Anniversary with an appropriately epic pair of releases of the newly restored masterwork: a two-disc edition that also includes extras like a full-length making-of documentary and multiple featurettes; and a four-disc limited edition collector’s set that delivers even more behind-the-scenes material, a previously unseen deleted scene, a CD soundtrack, an 88-page book with rarely seen photos and 70mm film frame from the movie.

"Brave"
The tale of Pixar’s first action heroine Merida cannily featured plenty of elements evoking Disney’s classic princesses, though the bow-toting Scots lass is perfectly capable of pursuing her own happy ending. The Ultimate Collector’s Edition – a five-disc 3D combo pack is a highland fling filled with amazing extras, including an alternate opening, an analysis of the character’s accented English, and the beautiful animated short “La Luna.”

"Arthur Christmas 3D"
Those who may have missed Sony Pictures Animation and Aardman Studio’s utterly charming and decidedly snarky take on Santa Claus’ clan – with his klutzy youngest son Arthur weathering family dysfunction in a bid to, of course, save Christmas – will be delighted to discover this holiday-classic-in-the-making, which also features extras like an Elf recruitment film and even Justin’s Bieber’s take on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town.”

"Finding Nemo"
One of Pixar’s most beloved films is still making a big splash – after a welcome return to theaters earlier this year in a richly detailed 3D version, the modern animated classic swims into the Blu-Ray format for the first time, available in a variety of configurations. The five-disc Ultimate Collector’s Edition delivers the full aquarium, with the 3D Blu-Ray edition, a standard Blu-Ray version and bonus features, a DVD and a digital copy – plus the short film “Partysaurus Rex,” the wildest “Toy Story Toon” to date.

"Looney Tunes Platinum Collection Vol. 2"
Cartoons don’t come any faster or flat-out funny than the 50 timeless, still-hilarious and painstakingly remastered shorts – assembled from Warner Bros. legendary Looney Tunes stable, starring Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd (in their legendary Hunting Trilogy) and the rest of the madcap creations that burst forth from the minds of brilliant animators including Chuck Jones, Tex Avery and Friz Freleng, (who receive their own spotlights in the many extra features – plus bonus cartoons from Avery’s even crazier stint at MGM).

"Pixar Short Films Collection, Vol. 2"
This follow-up volume to the earlier collection of groundbreaking shorts from the masters of computer animation features a dozen instances of the filmmakers’ most creative and accomplished short work to date – such brilliantly executed confections as the magical “Presto,” the endlessly inventive “Night & Day” and the beguiling “La Luna” – as well as short tales set in the worlds of “Toy Story,” “Cars,” “Up,” Wall-E” and “Ratatouille.” Even better: early student work by Pixar wizards John Lasseter, Pete Docter and Andrew Stanton.

"Ice Age: Continental Drift"
A decade after their debut, prehistoric heroes Manny (Ray Romano), Diego (Denis Leary) and Sid (John Leguizamo) – as well as saber-toothed squirrel Scrat – continue to go with the ice flow in their fourth Paleolithic opus – and second in 3D. It's filled with interactive activities, songs and accompanying videos featuring some of the biggest names in pop music, and a sing-a-long mode featuring interpretation in American Sign Language.

"Cinderella: Diamond Edition"
One of Walt Disney’s bona fide masterpieces and perhaps the most potent fairy tale fantasy of the past century gets the Bibbity-Bobbity-Blu-Ray treatment for the very first time, emerging as magical and vibrant as ever. The 1950 gem is available in a variety of combo packs, the most lavish of which is a six-disc limited edition jewelry box complete with accompanying storybooks – none of which turns into a pumpkin at midnight.

"Madagascar 3"
The wildly popular third installment in the saga of the mismatched zoo creatures from the Big Apple – including Alex the Lion (Ben Stiller), Marty the Zebra (Chris Rock), Gloria the Hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith) and Melmen the Giraffe (David Schwimmer) may be the best of the bunch, and the Blu-Ray debut comes with extras like a hilarious collection of deleted scenes, and, for a real 3D experience, your own wearable rainbow wig.

"Secret of the Wings"
Decades after her Disney-fied debut in “Peter Pan,” Tinker Bell continues to soar in popularity. In her very own direct-to-video fairy franchise, Tink comes face to face for the first time with her sister Periwinkle. Tink’s first 3D adventure features the voices of Anjelica Huston, Lucy Hale, Timothy Dalton, Lucy Liu, Raven-Symone and many more.

"The Muppet Christmas Carol"
Twenty years ago Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo and the rest of Jim Henson’s raucous cast of characters tweaked the Dickens out of the venerable story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, played with panache by token human Michael Caine, and the results continue to charm as a holiday must-watch. Top among the extras: the “cluck-along” featuring holiday standards performed by Muppet Chickens.

When people bemoan the fact that Old Hollywood -- the legend, the concept, the myth -- is gone, we feel like taking out a Power Point presentation or spreadsheet to politely show them the error in their thinking.

We'd point to Musso & Frank, yes, and the Pantages, and the studios, and Boardner's. And then we'd talk about the Hollywood Christmas Parade, which rolls down Hollywood Boulevard some time during the week of Thanksgiving. It's set to make merry again, in the heart of Hwood, for its 81st year, on Sunday, Nov. 25. Mr. Joe Mantegna is the Grand Marshal.

Yep, it's an event that has undergone some date changes over the years, and changes in fortune (outright cancellation has been on the table) and its name has evolved, too. But it still feels pretty small-town-y Tinseltown despite the eight decades it has weathered.

Why? Let's start with celebrities sitting in the backs of convertibles. Anybody waving from a top-down car is a classic parade snapshot, but if they've been on a soap opera, a reality show, or in a film, that lends it the local stamp. The Hollywood Christmas Parade is very much associated with this sight, cheery famous people in scarves they may or may not actually need, depending on the balminess of the weather.

We also like that local schools send their bands to the boulevard, and their floats and equestrians, too. Can't get more charming or Main-Street-y than that, and we do appreciate that a town known for big effects and CGI can also decorate a float now and then. Quaintness, long may you reign, even in an age of movie-based eye-poppery and whizbang.

Santa makes a cameo, too. Which is right and good, seeing as how Hollywood films like "Elf" and "A Miracle on 34th Street" helped shape our modern Santa's image. (We hope he doesn't mind.)

Let's also mention that Sunset is on the route, in case you don't get onto the boulevard proper.

The parade rolls again on the 25th at 6 p.m. Get your info on curbs, grandstands, and all your get into and out of Hollywood need-to-knows.

If you want to get a jump start on your Holiday shopping and skip the Black Friday lines, here are a few stores that are offering early access to some deals.

Amazon:
The online retail giant is offering their yearly Pre-Black Friday deals. Every half hour new deals are posted for up to 65-percent off -- or more. For upcoming items, the site may let you know a few hours ahead of time -- or only give you a brief hint. Either way the savings are worth checking every now and then, as you never know what you might find. Laptops and Video Games and Movies are a few of the usual suspects.

Walmart: Wal-Mart currently has special Holiday pricing on items ranging from TV’s to computers to gaming systems. Although the price cuts are not as steep as Black Friday will likely be, saving $200 on a new TV is nothing to sneeze at. (Especially with not having to deal with standing in line with a huge crowd.) Head to their website to start seeing the deals.

Target: If you are looking for toy ideas for kids or want to create an easy toy wish list, Target has posted their 2012 Holiday Toy catalog with toys for kids of all ages. Most of the items have a discount attached, so it's definitely worth a look, and then you won't deal with a sold out toy later on.

Toys "R" Us: Toys "R" Us has also posted their Great Big Toys "R" Us Book online. The place where toys live has a number of things going for it this year: You can buy online and then pick it up in store, they have free layaway, Price Match Guarantee, and with their free rewards program you can earn 10% on your Holiday purchases. Flip through their toy catalog and find some great gifts.

Have some other pre-Black Friday deals to share? Comment in the fields below.

"The Avengers"
Easily the movie of the year, both in box office appeal and pop cultural resonance. Marvel and parent company Disney took the superhero trend one step further by uniting its top tier of solo film stars – Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and the Hulk – and some A-list newcomers. There are multiple versions of the home video to consider, but we’ll suggest the five-disc set available exclusively at Target, which features a bonus documentary chronicling the step-by-step creation of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

"Ted"
In a year filled with sequels, reboots and novel and comic book adaptations, writer/director/voice actor Seth McFarlane’s off-kilter, decidedly dirty and ultimately warm and fuzzy tale of a boy and his magically talking teddy bear aging into co-dependent slackers was the freshest concept of all – and definitely the funniest. If the theatrical version wasn’t edgy enough, the Blu Ray comes with an unrated edition, as well as a feature on how Ted and Mark Wahlberg’s motel fight scene was choreographed.
(Available Dec. 11)

"The Dark Knight Rises" and "The Dark Knight" Trilogy Limited Edition Set
Director Christopher Nolan’s grand finale to his acclaimed Batman epics – the most dark and serious-minded take on the Dark Knight yet – gets the Blu-Ray treatment. Beyond being definitive viewing for any would-be Gotham Citizen, it comes with what’s become a rare set of extra treats, most significantly a documentary on the history of the iconic Batmobile. Even better, a limited edition collector’s set offers all three of Nolan’s Batman films.
 

"The Hunger Games"
With many popular fantasy franchises aimed at teens coming to their conclusion of late, the first film installment of author Suzanne Collins’ bestselling sci-fi allegory was a welcome arrival, especially with Oscar-caliber actress Jennifer Lawrence in the lead as Katniss Everdeen. The most on-target extra: a featurette on Collins at the phenomenon behind her creation.

"Best Exotic Marigold Hotel"
Lest we forget that amid all the big screen adventures aimed at young eyes, adults enjoy a tale well told, director John Madden’s exotic escapade involving a bunch of expatriate British senior citizens retiring abroad to a hotel in India that doesn’t quite live up to its hype, but delivers on the promise of a new life, turned out to be the sleeper hit of the year – and an ideal film for repeat viewings.

"The Bourne Legacy"
After stints in “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” and “The Avengers” Jeremy Renner proves to be a good fit for just about any franchise, slipping seamlessly – and butt-kickingly – into the lead of the now-Matt Damon-less adventure as Aaron Cross, and the movie’s unique timetable, concurrent with prior Bourne action. The extras take the viewer deep into the creation of the film’s signature stunt sequences and globetrotting location shoots.
(Available Dec. 11)

"Prometheus"
With its intriguing is-it-or-isn’t-it-a-prequel-to-“Alien” pedigree, stunning visuals from director Ridley Scott and shaded performance by Michael Fassbender, Charlize Theron and Noomi Rapace, the sci-fi/horror hybrid proved to be a polarizing experience for moviegoers, with some finding it brilliant and others left scratching their heads. The debate will remain as lively on Blu-Ray and those in the film’s thrall will be just as captivated by its eloquent use of 3D on the home screen.

"MiB3: Men In Black 3"
Perhaps the most expectations-exceeding sequel of the past year, the third outing is a surprise treat, continuing the franchise with more novel twists and a considerably warmer heart than director Barry Sonnenfeld and stars Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin might have delivered. Among the most intriguing features: compatibility with Sony’s forthcoming Movie Touch tablet technology, which opens up an unprecedented level of interactivity within the viewing experience.

"The Amazing Spider-Man"
Marvel’s friendly neighborhood wall-crawler got a major makeover from director Marc Webb focusing on the budding romance between high school dork-turned-superhero Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) and adorable science nerd Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone). Although the storyline is a tad familiar, both the director and stars give it enough fresh twists to launch a promising new franchise, and the Blu-Ray – which also comes in a 3D edition – spins a dense web of production miscellanea within Spidey’s big reboot.

"The Expendables 2"
A sequel equal in firepower, Sylvester Stallone’s ragtag collection of movie action heroes gets a shot in the bulging bicep with some new faces – Liam Hemsworth and Yu Nan – some welcome old faces – Chuck Norris and Jean-Claude Van Damme – and a Planet Hollywood-sized shootout with Stallone, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger that the first film neglected to include. Quite simply cinematic steroids for the action-addicted.

"Mad Men Season Five"
Always one of the most talked-about TV series, the fifth season of creator Matthew Weiner’s evocative exploration of the 1960s ad industry provoked even more buzz than usual, from Don’s new marriage and Betty’s altered appearance, to Joan’s game-changing move and Lane’s fateful choice. The Blu-Rays go even deeper into the show’s dense mythology with featurettes on topics like the razor-sharp dialogue, artist Giorgio de Chirico, Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball and even a history of Daylight Savings Time.

"Desperate Housewives Complete Series"
After eight seasons of revealing peeks of sex, sin and scandal behind the white picket fences of suburbia, the ladies of Wisteria Lane shuttered their blinds once and for all, but the sudsy dramas can be revisited in their entirety in this set that collects all 179 episodes on 46 discs – plus new bonus features including details from the last days on set, creator Marc Cherry’s finale cameo, and a retrospective of over 50 characters killed off over the course of the show. All packaged in a replica of Mary Alice’s familiar steamer trunk.

The Obama family illuminated the National Christmas Tree Thursday night during a celebration on the White House's Ellipse.

The first family and Marian Robinson, the first lady's mother, were on stage to count down to the lighting and flip the switch. They stayed for the entertainment, which included The Fray, James Taylor, Ledisi, Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat.

President Obama said in his remarks that the tree - which has been replaced twice after the long-standing National Christmas Tree was felled by high winds in February 2011 - was a symbol of rebuilding and strength as much of the East Coast continues to recover from Sandy.

"In times of war and peace, triumph and tragedy, we've always come together to rejoice in the Christmas miracle," Obama said. "But our tree has been having a hard time recently. ... Just goes to show, nobody's job is safe here in Washington."

Obama told a story from Midland Beach, NY, still devastated by Sandy. Despite the lingering damage, they created a community Christmas tree.

"One local nursery donated the tree," Obama said. "Another chipped in for the lights and a star. And 70-year-old Tom Killeen and his longtime buddies from the area planted it at the end of the street overlooking the town beach.

"As Tom says, 'The tree has one message. It's Christmas time, not disaster time,' " Obama said,

Obama recognized service members, as did Taylor, who dedicated a poignant "I'll Be Home for Christmas" to them. Michelle Obama joined with "Modern Family" star Rico Rodriguez to read "'Twas the Night Before Christmas."

And the first family joined the performers, host Neil Patrick Harris and Santa on stage at the end of the show to sing "Santa Claus is Coming to Town."

Changes to the annual celebration this year included a new stage location to better showcase the White House behind it, a new color scheme for the tree, as well as the tree itself.

After the National Christmas Tree was felled in February 2011, its replacement, a Colorado blue spruce, died of complications from "transplant shock," the National Park Service said.

More than 17,000 guests were on hand to see the new tree illuminated for the season on the Ellipse. Tickets were issued via an online lottery earlier in the season.

Obama himself was responsible for inviting The Fray to perform. Other musical guests included Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds and "American Idol" Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips.

"I was here for an event and met the president, and he was like, 'Hey man, we gotta get you up here to play a song'," said frontman Isaac Slade. "I was like, 'Uh... OK! My calendar's free!'"

Who would have thought weather could be too cold for ice itself?

Ice sculptors for the annual Christmas in Ice event in North Pole, Alaska, that draws visitors from all over the world have been unable to work efficiently because the temperature has fallen too low. Ranging from 30 to 40 degrees below zero, the chill has made the ice too delicate, the Fairbanks Daily News Miner reported.

“One carver had his wing on his angel break and had to bring the wing inside to warm it up and glue it together. Anytime it gets below minus 20, ice becomes a lot more brittle," Keith Fye, chairman of Christmas in Ice, told the paper. "When you put a chisel to it, it can crack the wrong way.”

During normal conditions, around 20 local and international sculptors would attend the event to create festive ice installations. This year, only half of them were able to help because of issues with the unmanageable ice along with destroyed tools and damaged electrical cords according to the Fairbanks Daily News Miner.

The event runs from December 1 through January 6.

This is undoubtedly the greatest gift-giving season ever for Batman fans. Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight Rises" is available on Blu-ray and DVD, and comes with a bonus disc loaded with three hours of in-depth features. Throw in hardcover editions of "Batman: The Court of Owls," which Will Brooker, aka Dr. Batman, has suggested be the source of the next Batman film, and "Batman: Earth One", the long-awaited release of the "Arkham Asylum" video game for Mac, and the animated film "The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1," and the Caped Crusader could get you more than halfway through Hanukkah all by himself.

This is also a great year for fans of the Marvel of yore. "Marvel Comics: The Untold Story", by Sean Howe, draws from more than 100 interviews to tell the history of a cultural juggernaut, going all the way back to its humble beginnings in 1939. If that's not enough inside baseball for you, it's not to early to pre-order "The Secret History of Marvel Comics," by Blake Bell and Dr. Michael J. Vassallo, which focuses on the '30s and '40s, when publisher Martin Goodman simultaneously ran another house producing sexually-charged pulp and gossip news.

Publishers have been progressively moving their titles to digital formats, and no one more comprehensively than Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited--$59.98 gives you unlimited access to more than 10,000 old titles. There's no better way to get your hands on all these titles without winning the lottery.  And for another look at old-school Marvel, Rittenhouse Archives has come out with Marvel: The Bronze Age, a set of 81 trading cards featuring art from 1970 to 1985.

In late 2011, DC rebooted their entire line under the banner The New 52, with a fantastic new take on the Man of Steel, and now Volume Two of "Superman: Earth One" is here in hardcover. Clark Kent's date with his sexy new neighbor is interrupted when an energy-eating creature starts tearing apart Metropolis. Who'd've guessed that J. Michael Straczynsi, a man who once wrote for "Murder, She Wrote," could breathe new life into such an iconic character? And for those of you who grew up on "The Super Friends," you'll barely recognize "Justice League Vol. 1: Origin," in which our heroes all meet each other for the first time, and must band together to battle Darkseid. GL comes off as a wisecracking tough guy, Flash is tormented by self-doubt and Batman gets made fun of by his new co-workers because he doesn't have any powers. And if you really dig the new-look JLA, there's a fresh line of action figures, too.

Part of what made "The Avengers" movie so great was the chance to watch them fight each other. But this year also saw Earth's Mightiest Heroes battle another classic team of heroes in the pages of "Avengers vs. X-Men", in which the two sides prepare for the return of the universe destroying Phoenix. The whole eye-popping saga is now available in a single hardbound edition, and comes with a digital download code so you can read the whole thing on your iPad. When you consider the book weighs some 3 pounds, this is essential, and it also provides readers with all manner of extra material.

Eisner Award-winner Eric Shanower has been doing comic book adaptations of Frank L. Baum's "Oz" books for 25 years, among the latest is "Ozma in Oz", in which Dorothy Gale finds herself blown off a ship, only to awaken floating in a crate with a talking chicken named Bill, as they drift toward a strange island. Shanower's excellent writing and Skottie Young's gorgeous artwork make for series of great bedtime stories.

If you like your comics a little bleaker, may we recommend "The Stand"? Stephen King's most ambitious novel has been adapted into a 768-page comic by writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and artist Mike Perkins, with King himself overseeing the project. Collected here for the first time are the 31 comics that the trio produced starting in March of 2009.

Todd McFarlane is one of the most influential comic book artists of his generation, having done groundbreaking work on Spider-Man, Batman and The Hulk, as well as creating Spawn. For any serious fan "The Art of Todd McFarlane: The Devil’s in the Details" is a must, featuring400-pages of McFarlane's work from across his career.