New on video: Why it was important that latest ‘Star Trek’ film kept the plot simple and the characters likable

New on Blu-ray

“Star Trek Beyond” (Paramount DVD, $29.99; Blu-ray, $39.99; 4K 3D, $49.99; also available on VOD)

After the complicated and oppressively heavy “Star Trek Into Darkness,” the series gets back to basics for the fan-friendly “Star Trek Beyond,” a straightforward planet-hopping adventure that reaffirms what makes the franchise special: likable characters, working together. This time out, the crew of the Enterprise ends up stranded at a distant outpost with a damaged ship where they discover a mysterious, deranged villain with a serious grudge against the Federation. Director Justin Lin keeps the action taut, allowing for plenty of scenes where the heroes get to bond, joke around, and put their courage and smarts to good use. At times funny, at times thrilling and always inspiring, “Star Trek Beyond” is one of 2016’s best blockbusters, and a welcome escape from these oft-distressing times.

[Special features: Deleted scenes, a comprehensive set of featurettes, and a blooper reel]

VOD

“Peter and the Farm” (available 11/4)

Tony Stone’s lovely and heartbreaking documentary “Peter and the Farm” follows one memorable character: a mordantly witty Vermont artist-farmer named Peter Dunning who’s grown weary from decades spent trying to keep his youthful back-to-the-land dreams alive. As Dunning goes about his daily business, he talks to Stone’s small film crew — some of whom he enlists to help with the chores — and gives a good nuts-and-bolts summary of what it takes to keep a small, independent operation like his afloat. But when he moves from ranching and planting to discussing his estranged children and broken relationships, “Peter and the Farm” becomes deeper and bluer, developing into a detailed sketch of one lonely American.

TV set of the week

“Outlander: Season Two” (Sony DVD, $45.99; Blu-ray, $55.99)

Starz’s expensive, popular adaptation of “Outlander”—novelist Diana Gabaldon’s bestselling historical fiction series — becomes even more ambitious in Season 2, following the lead of the books in telling a story that sprawls between early 18th century France and Scotland to 20th century Europe and America. As with the first season, the follow-up features astonishing production values and two magnificent lead performances: Sam Heughan as heroic Scottish lord Jamie Fraser, and Caitriona Balfe as his time-traveling wife, Claire. The ups and downs of their relationship, coupled with the larger story of cultures in transition, makes for addicting viewing.

[Special features: Deleted and extended scenes, plus featurettes]

From the archives

“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street — In Concert” (Shout! Factor Blu-ray combo, $29.99)

At this point, enough productions of Stephen Sondheim’s bloody operetta “Sweeney Todd” have been released on home video that fans of the 1979 musical could argue for years over which performances of which songs are the best. And that would be a fine way to pass the time because each has its merits. A newly released Blu-ray of a 2001 concert version features minimal staging — though enough to follow the story — and has Broadway legend Patti LuPone as slovenly meat-pie baker Mrs. Lovett, and big-voiced George Hearn as the serial-killing barber who provides her with freshly killed ingredients. These are two of the best singers to tackle the material (and Neal Patrick Harris is no slouch either as orphaned urchin Tobias). Even without an elaborate set, Sondheim and book-writer Hugh Wheeler’s critique of class warfare and urban industrialization remains tuneful and disturbing.

[Special features: A behind-the-scenes featurette]

Three more to see

“Bad Moms” (Universal DVD, $29.98; Blu-ray, $34.98; also available on VOD); “Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders” (Warner Bros. DVD, $19.98; Blu-ray, $24.98; also available on VOD); “The Walking Dead: The Complete Sixth Season” (Starz/Anchor Bay DVD, $42.99; Blu-ray, $79.99)