'Impact Man' goes green on DVD

These new-to-DVD documentaries range from a Manhattan family going "green" to a pair of programs about the Kennedy assassination.

"No Impact Man" (Oscilloscope, 2009, $29.99). New York writer Colin Beavan decides, for a book project, to live as completely "green" as possible — no conveniences whatsoever and as little impact on the environment as possible.

Of course, initially, his biggest task is getting his wife (and their young daughter) on board — but he's fortunate to have someone so supportive, compromising and with a sense of humor about it all.

It's funny, charming, thought-provoking and has something to say about our consumer-oriented society. Imagine the British sitcom "Good Neighbors" set in Manhattan and not fictional. (Be aware that there is occasional R-rated language.)

Extras: widescreen, featurettes, trailer

"Frontrunner: The Afghan Woman Who Surprised the World" (IndiePix, 2008, $24.95). In the aftermath of 9/11, Afghan physician and devoted mother of three Dr. Massouda Jalal is the only woman in a pool of 17 candidates in Afghanistan's first democratic election, and she finds herself under attack from all sides. Her spirit and independence give this show a tremendous boost.

Extras: full frame, in English and in Arabic languages with English subtitles

"Dominick Dunne: After the Party: Collector's Edition" (IndiePix, 2009, two discs, $29.95). The Vanity Fair writer and victim's-rights activist who died last year at 83 is profiled in this entertaining collection of remembrances, photos, films and colorful stories from celebrity friends and relatives.

Extras: widescreen, deleted/extended scenes, audio commentary, home videos, photo gallery, book excerpt, trailers

"Copyright Criminals" (IndiePix, 2009, $19.95). An overview of hip-hop artists who use portions of previously recorded music in creative ways, which results in their becoming plaintiffs in copyright infringement cases.

Extras: widescreen, extended scenes, featurettes, trailer

"JFK: 3 Shots That Changed America" (History, 2009, $19.95). This is an attempt at a clear-eyed, fact-based exploration of the evidence regarding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Extras: widescreen