2011 - Page 18 of 69

DVD Review “Rammbock: Berlin Undead”

Director: Marvin Kren
Starring: Michael Fuith, Theo Treb
Studio: The Collective
MPAA Rated: Unrated
Run Time: 64 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I love myself any zombie movies that I can get my hands on but this one really fails to deliver the goods. This film also only runs barely over an hour and it doesn’t quite feel like a film more like an extended short. I think the development of the characters and the story really take a hit due to this. The zombies are cool and kick some ass but once it starts to get good it ends. The film origins from Germany and maybe something is lost in there.

The film focuses about a virus that rapidly spreads and turns people into mindless homicidal maniacs. Our focus is with the character Michael who tries to visit this ex-girlfriend in Berlin but ends up with much more to deal with. He doesn’t meet up with his ex but he meets Harper from her apartment and together they manage to hold themselves up against the hordes of the infected around the building. It up to Michael find his ex-girlfriend Gabi and more importantly survive.

I may have been a little hard on this film since overall it is somewhat entertaining. I liked the zombies but just the story didn’t do it for me. Overall the production values were good and felt bigger than what they were. The DVD also lacks any special features at all which is also very disappointing. All in all, there are so many better zombie-infected films out there, so this is worth the skip and doesn’t reinvent the zombie genre.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Cars 2”

Directed by John Lasseter, Brad Lewis
Starring: Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Michael Caine, Emily Mortimer, Jason Issacs, Thomas Kretschmann
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
Rated G
Running time: 113 minutes

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Since the release of “Cars 2”, a lot of bad press has been surrounding this film and Pixar’s decision to make it. I agree that it wasn’t their best film but I enjoyed it quite a bit. The film might not have spoken much to parents but it did it job well…it entertained the kiddies. The world of “Cars” is so popular amongst today’s kids from toys to clothes to electronics. The film and its merchandise has easily grossed Disney/Pixar a few billion dollars. So I think in their eyes everyone doesn’t need to be a classic. This one was for the fans of the franchise aka the kids and that is all. The 3D presentation on the disc is yet another win for Disney and I think again like “Toy Story” series, it surpassed the theatrical experience. The 3D adds so much to this film and its experience. The video is so clear and colors are just bursting out in this film. Disney’s DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 is used to its fullest on this release especially since this film is so intense and non-stop action. Fans of the “Cars” franchise this is a no-brainer.

The extras on the disc jammed packed but are mostly exclusive to this 5-disc 3D release, which stinks for everyone else that doesn’t purchase this 3D set. Like all Disney/Pixar releases there is an amazing audio commentary with directors John Lasseter and Brad Lewis as they discuss the amazing world of “Cars”. My favorite feature on this is the Toy Story short called “Hawaiian Vacation”. so amazing and able to be watched over and over. Mater is known for his short tales and there is an animated short called “Air Mater”, funny funny. What is unique about these special features is that it is an interactive tour of the globe starting with, of course, Radiator Springs. Included there is an alternate four-minute opening scene, a great featurette about “Origins of Cars 2” and really cool virtual tour of the Radiator Springs set. Next up on our world tour is “The Pacific”. In there we have a feature on the film’s amazing opening scene called “Somewhere in the Pacific,” background on the creation of the villains in “Making Lemon-Aides,” and fully virtual tour of the “Oil Derrick Set”.

On our next stop we visit “London” and obviously you are seeing a pattern with the extras. The first feature a look into the films development with “Brawl at Big Bentley”. Since the film is basically an animated James Bond, we check out the film’s amazing gadgets in “Spyified”. There is a deleted scene called “Spy Training: London” and it is definitely worth a watch. Like the others we also have a virtual tour of London and its sights from the film. “Paris” is the next visit on the world tour. There is an deleted scene, called “Paris Race”, there is a featurette called “Streets of Paris”, another “Spy Training” short like in London and lastly a virutal set visit of Paris. Next stop is “Munich” is not very packed but we get a two deleted Scene, a German trailer and an art slidshow. The briefest stop is “Prague” which includes an alternate Prague Chase Opening and an art slideshow.

“Porta Costa” includes two interesting featurettes called “Finding Porta Costa” and “Heart of Italy”, which focus on the countries production. There is a short called “International Insurance” and of course the virutal set from Porta Costa. Easily my favorite stop on the world tour is “Tokyo”. There is an extended scenes called “Tokyo Race” with optional filmmaker commentary. There are two featurettes called “Mater Takes Tokyo” and “Many Nations, One Race”. There is also a third “Spy Training” short, There is a virtual set for the museum. Also included is a great Japanese theatrical trailer. The last stop on the map is “Emeryville”. We get to visit the annual Pixar car show in “Motorama”. There is a behind-the-scenes of toy creation for McMissile called “He Lives! Making the Finn McMissile Toy”. There is also series of character animations for “Animation Pit Stop” and lastly the theatrical trailers. There is also a great feature on called “The Nuts & Bolts of Cars Land” which showcases the upcoming Summer 2012 12-acre attraction, Cars Land.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Toy Story 3”

Directed by: Lee Unkrich
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Ned Beatty, Don Rickles, Michael Keaton, Wallace Shawn, John Ratzenberger, Blake Clark, Estelle Harris, Jodi Benson
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 103 minutes

Overall Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Growing up with the “Toy Story” franchise, it has become a part of our life and we feel that we have grown with them. This third film excelled as the best in the franchise easily. I think it has the most heart, the best action and the best cast. This film was actually released in 3D in theaters and IMAX. I saw the film in IMAX and it was an experience unlike an other. When this film was released on Blu-ray, I was met with much disappointment that the 3D version was not included. Luckily now I was able to relive that experience and from my home. The 3D on this film is probably the best that Disney has ever released. What I liked most about this film is that it doesn’t even act like it is in 3D and uses it just to enhance the experience of the wonderful film. The Blu-Ray video presentation is obviously flawless and looks so crisp and clear. If you are wondering how this film can improve on the sound from the first two films it is very simple…DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1. That’s right the sound is superb. Overall to date it is my favorite Pixar film and most definitely my favorite 3D release.

Also unlike the first two films 3D Blu-ray release all of the extras are in HD. The first disc of extras include the very cute “Day & Night” short. “Buzz Lightyear Mission Logs: The Science of Adventure” like in the second film is an education short aimed for kids. “Toys!” is a short feature with the filmmakers and animators about working on creating the characters from their childhood toys. Disney is never one to skimp on the sneak peeks with over ten minutes of trailers, including “Cars 2”, “Tangled”, “The Incredibles”, “Mater’s Tall Tales”, “The Search for Santa Paws”, “Bambi” and a few more 3D titles. These are obviously dated since these trailer are from the previous Blu-ray release and are a little dated.

This film has so many extras that they are split over two disc. The commentary is even more intense with a picture-in-picture feature that needs its disc with director Lee Unkrich and producer Darla K. Anderson. They dissect the whole film and really give you an very immersive experience into the film. “Beyond the Toybox” is another commentary track with the supervising animator Bobby Podesta, supervising technical director Guido Quaroni, production designer Bob Pauley, supervising animator Mike Venturini and story supervisor Jason Katz. After being spoiled with the picture-in-picture commentary, it is good but doesn’t compare. “Film Fans” Featurettes is a 40 minutes set of production featurettes, including “Roundin’ Up a Western Opening”, “Bonnie’s Playtime: A Story Roundtable”, “Beginnings: Setting a Story in Motion”, “Life of a Shot”, “Making of Day & Night” and “Paths to Pixar”. These are all amazing and so worth a watch. Like the first two films there are shorts from Pixar including “Where’s Gordon,” “Cereal Bars” and “Clean Start”. If all those aren’t enough for you we have many many more featurettes. Then there is “Toy Story Trivia Dash” is a fun interactive game for the kids. Lastly there are many extra shorts from the publicity, including a series of “Ken’s Dating Tips”, Lots-o-Hugging Bear Commercials” and “Dancing with the Stars at Pixar” and also five domestic and Japanese theatrical trailers and more.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Toy Story 2”

Directed by: John Lasseter
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn, Annie Potts, John Ratzenberger, Joe Ranft, John Morris, Laurie Metcalf, Jodi Benson, Joan Cusack, Kelsey Grammer, Estelle Harris, and Wayne Knight.
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 92 minutes

Overall Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I still remember going to the movies with my wife (then girlfriend) and her family on Thanksgiving 1999 to see this film. This film was so highly anticipated and delivers such a great cinema experience. This sequel took what was great about the first film and really amped it up to the 10th degree. This film was released in Disney Digital 3D in 2009 ten years later and I got a chance to see it again. The experience was so enhanced as this film is so epic. This 3D Blu-ray is such an amazing transfer to Blu-ray disc. I would go as far and say that this is a flawless release. The video on the film is again fantastic and surpasses the first film in many ways. The sound is also very impressive with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, especially since this film is so action packed. Overall it is such a great experience and a truly fantastic way to view this film.

The special features are in depth but are a little lighter than the first film. Of course first includes is an audio commentary with director John Lasseter, co-directors Lee Unkrich and Ash Brannon, and co-writer Andrew Stanton. The commentary is very entertaining and delivers some really great information. The next is a second featurette continuing from the first called “Toy Story 3 Sneak Peek: The Characters” and explores the new characters. Like the first disc as well they have more shorts including “TS2 Sleep Deprivation Lab”, “Pinocchio” and “The Movie Vanishes”. Always great to watch. “Buzz Lightyear Mission Logs: International Space Station” is an virtual tour aimed to entertain the kids. “Paths to Pixar: Technical Artists” chats with the artists about their personal experiences with Pixar. “Pixar’s Zoetrope is a quick three-dimensional zoetrope, inspired by Studio Ghibli. “Celebrating Our Friend Joe Ranft” is a very great feature on the tribute to story artist Lasseter calls “the heart and soul of Pixar.”

The rest of the extras arre taken from the past DVD releases. “Making Toy Story 2” is a behind-the-scenes featurette diving into the sequels development. In “John Lasseter Profile”, we dive into the head of Pixar’s leader and it’s future. “Cast of Characters” focuses on the new character appearing this sequel. I think some of the best features is “Toy Box” which includes outtakes, easter egg and other great suprises including “Riders in the Sky Music Medley”, and Tom Hanks and Tim Allen arguing over “Who’s the Coolest Toy?” Definitely some good stuff. There are three unfinished scenes including a “deleted animation intro,” “Godzilla Rex,” and an early version of the “Crossing the Road” scene. Also like the first film, there are features about the “Design”, focuses on the effects and “Production” which has five more features describing the behind the scenes. The next featurettes chat about the sound and music including “Designing Sound,” “Making the Songs,” “Woody’s Roundup Music Video,” and a Randy Newman demo for “Jessie’s Song.”. Lastly there are promotional videos including two trailers, over ten TV spots, twenty domestic and international posters and more. Great features less than the first but still great.

3D Blu-ray Review “Toy Story”

Directed by: John Lasseter
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen,Don Rickles, Jim Varney, Wallace Shawn, John Ratzenberger, Annie Potts, John Morris, Laurie Metcalf, Erik von Detten
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 81 minutes

Overall Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Pixar has changed the way that people watch animated films. With “Toy Story”, it was the first time a animated film was done in completely made with computer graphics. The first is epic and created the franchise loved by everyone. Woody and Buzz are some of the most notable characters from any film and has nudged it way into everyone’s hearts. This Blu-ray contains the coverted 3D presentation of this film. Since the film was originally released in 1995. It is before this new 3D technology existed. The conversion is really great and adds some good depth to the film. When I saw the “Toy Story 1 & 2” theatrical release, I enjoyed it but I wasn’t blown away. This was a real improvement from that experience for sure. The video is crystal clear and really pops the colors in the film. The sound on the film is a terrific DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Disney is known for their Blu-ray video and sound and they have yet to disappoint.

The special features are similar to the first release of “Toy Story” on Blu-ray. Included is an audio commentary with director John Lasseter, co-writer Andrew Stanton, art director Ralph Eggleston, supervising animator Pete Docter, supervising technical director Bill Reeves, and producers Ralph Guggenheim and Bonnie Arnold. It is one packed house and it is great hearing about the production and work from their film. The featurette “Toy Story 3 Sneak Peek: The Story” is a short sneak into “Toy Story 3”. “Buzz Lightyear Mission Logs: Blast Off” is a fun animated/live-action short. “Paths to Pixar: Artists” takes a look with the animators on their experience. “Studio Stories” is consisted of three animated shorts “John’s Car”, “Baby AJ”, and the “Scooter Races”. “Buzz Takes Manhattan” features John Lasseter talking about the Macy’s Day Parade balloon. “Black Friday: The Toy Story You Never Saw” talks about the version of the film that we never saw…and it is a good thing for sure.

The rest of the features are from the past DVD releases and are in standard definition. The first is called “Filmmakers Reflect” featuring a roundtable discussion between John Lasseter and his Pixar crew about the film. “Making Toy Story” goes in depth on the development, design, and animation. I have always enjoyed this feature. “The Legacy of Toy Story” looks at the film and its legacy on animation genre. “Designing Toy Story” talks about the design of the film. Short but sweet. There are ten unfinished deleted scenes and alternate versions. It is always great to see raw footage from Pixar. There are three in depth features looking at the “Design”, chats about the 3D, the “Story”, features a story-to-film comparison and “Production” talks about the tricks used to make the film. The next featurette is about the sound and music, which is the best part of the film, with “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” music video and “Designing Sound” with Randy Newman’s audio tracks. Lastly here are many promotional spots includes, two theatrical Trailers, four TV spots, twenty-five domestic and international Posters, merchandise photos and more. If you have never owned this film this is the set you need to pick up.

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DVD Review “More Brains! A Return To The Living Dead”

Directed by Bill Philputt
Starring: Cast of Return of the Living Dead
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 240 minutes

Overall score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are horror fan then it’s simple… you love zombie movies. Everyone loves zombies. It is something about them every since George Romero brought them into the spotlight in the late 60’s. “Return of the Living Dead” one the horror gems and has become a major cult classic and legacy in the genre. The film has spawned four sequels and has one hell of a following. The feature “More Brains! A Return To The Living Dead” proposes itself as the definitive “Return of The Living Dead”. It does that in fact and more. It focuses solely on the first film and comes together as a great documentary. The team behind this film has done previous genre documentary like “His Name is Jason” and “Never Sleep Again”. This one definitely stands out as their best work.

This film gathers amazing interviews from the cast and crew of the film starting with Writer/Director Dan O’Bannon, Co-producer Graham Henderson and the cast Clu Gulager, James Karen, Don Calfa, Beverly Randolph, Thom Mathews, John Philbin, Jewel Shepard, Miguel A. Nunez Jr., Brian Peck, Linnea Quigley, Allan Trautman, as well as many of the special effects team. It presents some amazing stories from the film that I never knew as well as archive footage from the shoot. The stories are fun and it looks like the cast/crew is having a really good time. I honestly can’t wait to see what these guys are going to do next. Would love their take on a documentary about “The Exorcist” or “Halloween”.

The special features are packed and include ANOTHER two hours of footage. The first is called “A Conversation with Dan O’Bannon: The Final Interview” and it covers his experience working on the film. Great stuff. Next up, we have coverage about the 2nd and 3rd films in “They Won’t Stay Dead: A Look at Return of the Living Dead Part II” and “Love Beyond the Grave: A Look at Return of the Living Dead 3”. I think the coverage from the second film is a bit of a downer, it seems like it was a bad experience. I think about Roy Schneider talking about “Jaws 2” compares to “Jaws”. The third film has always had a special place for me and I love Brian Yunza. I am surprised but not shocked that there is no mention at all on the disc about the 4th and 5th film in the series. But like any respecting horror fan, I just ask myself…”What 4th and 5th film?” The music video for Stacey Q’s “Tonight” is cheesy but you can’t help but love that song (and think about the graveyard dance scene). “Even More Brains: Deleted Documentary Interviews” covers alternate footage cut from the film but it works really well. I am happy with the flow of the film though and think it was well cut. “Return of the Living Dead in 3 Minutes” features the cast today revisiting lines from the film during their interviews. Very funny. “Resurrected Settings: The Filming Locations Today” takes us back to the sets from the film and it is cool to see where it was shot.

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Interview with Silas Weir Mitchell

Silas Weir Mitchell is playing Monroe in the new show “Grimm” on NBC. His character is similar to the “big bad wolf” from the Grimm world. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Silas about his role and what we can expect from season one.

Mike Gencarelli: How did you get involved with the show “Grimm” playing Monroe?
Silas Weir Mitchell: I had previously worked with Jim Kouf who is one of the creators of the show. He and I had hit it off and we have a great working relationship. They called me in and it was a good fit.

MG: What has been your greatest challenge playing the role?
SWM: The best part for me has been the inner conflict that the character has. He is a reformed criminal and I have to fight against my criminal urges. My character is really trying hard not morph as he is all done with those things.

MG: What has it been like working with the CG and make-up effects?
SWM: I haven’t had to wear the prosthetics that much. It takes so long to get everything on that they have come up with a way to use both CG and make-up. They have a system that works really well. A lot of the time I just have markers glued to face for the computers to read.

MG: How has it been working with David Giuntoli?
SWM: We have had a great time working together. We are very lucky here as we have fun and everyone gets along. David is perfectly cast for this role. He has charm and a sort of haunting quality which is perfect for his character of Nick. Our relationship in the story is very unique and almost like a chess match. David and I really enjoy that.

MG: What can we expect from the first season?
SWM: In the first few episodes, the writers are definitely hitting the fairy tales that we know. The writers are changing them though. They are using the original stories as a foundation. The episodes are sort of jumping off points as opposed to a re-telling. There is a mythological quality to what is going on without using the humanity.

MG: How does this show compare to your other work?
SWM: It’s different for me as I have been in on this show from the start. I came in on the ground floor. Every other series I have worked on I have come in later in the process. When I did “Prison Break”, I originally was only supposed to do a couple episodes but it worked out to where I was around for awhile. I didn’t come in knowing I was going to be in every episode. With “Grimm” it’s been great knowing that I have steady work. There is also just so much to chew on as the character is very rich.

Interview with Bitsie Tulloch

Bitsie Tulloch is playing the role of Juliette on NBC’s new series “Grimm”. Her character is the girlfriend of Nick, played by David Giuntoli. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Bitsie about her role in the show and what we can expect from season one.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us about your role of Juliette Silverton on “Grimm”?
Bitsie Tulloch: I play a veterinarian on the show that is dating lead detective Nick Burckhardt. One of the reasons I was attracted to the role is because of the six regulars on the show that role is not a cop or a monster. I am thinking that with my character being a vet I might be helpful with some of the creatures down the road. Right now they are enjoying coming up with creative ways Nick can lie to me. When I read the script the first time I was shocked at how dark the show is. I knew enough about the original stories to know that the stories were pretty gruesome. I thought the idea to add a crime procedural element to these stories was fantastic. The show is just really smart and how they are reinterpreting these classic stories is great.

MG: Tell us about working with such a great cast including David Giuntoli & Russell Hornsby?
BT: It’s great. I am the only woman on the show who is a series regular. It’s not hard getting out of the bed in the morning. (Laughs) They guys are all great and different from each other. I love it. They all are so sweet. I have never been on a show or movie where everyone is this close.

MG: What has been the most challenging part of working on the show so far?
BT: Having to move to Portland was my biggest challenge originally. Now I think it’s the least challenging as I love the city so much. It’s been pretty amazing shooting up here with the five guys. We all live within about four blocks from each other.

MG: How do you feel that the show stands out from the standard cop procedural?
BT: It’s not your standard cop procedural by any means. One of the things that I think is really cool about the show is the fans that I think will be drawn to this show are the best type of fans. I think there will be a lot of artistic, passionate people watching the show. The turnout at Comic-Con was amazing! There are about eight different genres blended together into this one show. Something like this has not been done before.

MG: Tell us about your film “Caroline and Jackie” with “Grimm” co-star David Giuntoli?
BT: That was a film I actually co-produced. It’s an indie drama about two sisters who relationship is unfolding. The film takes place over the course of one day. We had a period of about six months where David and I weren’t shooting together and when we got back together the chemistry was still there. David plays my boyfriend and his character is really great.

CD Review: The Jigsaw Seen “Winterland”

The Jigsaw Seen
Winterland
It’s Alive! Media
10 tracks
30 minutes

Our Score: 2 out 5 stars

I am sorry to say this but from the first note on the CD, I knew I wasn’t going to like this album. This album tells a story which showcases the group’s take on the season. The leader singer, Dennis Davison voice is very mellow and a little winy especially in the first track “What about Christmas?”. I can see his voice really kicking some ass perhaps with some much faster music. I think the most exciting part of this album is the insert page with its paper snow surprise.

One song that I did in enjoy is “Candy Cane”, it is faster pace and has a good beat. “Circle of Steel”, I thought sounded like a like a total rip off of Gordon Lightfoot song but it turns out it in fact IS a Gordon Lightfoot song. “Christmas Behind Me” sounds like it belongs in a western film. “December” is instrumental and runs less than two minutes. Overall nothing really jumps out as extraordinary on this disc.

I should also point out that I am bit of holiday music snob as I love good holiday themed music. This doesn’t capture the holiday spirit at all and leave you wanting to listen to real Christmas music. The album is also very short and only runs about 30 minutes. If you want to check out a great new folk Christmas album this Holiday season, check out She & Him: “A Very She & Him Christmas”. It is amazing. This one not so much.

Track list:
1. What about Christmas?
2. December
3. Snow Angels of Pigtown
4. Woman Loves the Season
5. Candy Cane
6. Circle of Steel
7. Christmas Behind Me
8. First Day of the New Year
9. Dreams of Spring
10. Winterland’s Gone

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Blu-ray Review “Winnie the Pooh”

Directed by: Stephen Anderson, Don Hall
Narrated by John Cleese
Starring: Jim Cummings, Tom Kenny, Craig Ferguson, Travis Oates, Bud Luckey
Jack Boulter
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
Rated G
Running time: 63 minutes

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love Winnie The Pooh? Everyone young and old at some point in their lives have been affected by Pooh and his friends from the 100 acre woods. This film is a really brave move on Disney’s part. In a world of CGI animation, there is little room or (gasp as I type this) want for traditional animated films. This film does hold it own though and really stands out from other animated films CGI or not. This film is very funny and even had me belly laughing. It has you singing…if you got the soundtrack prior to watching like me. It will also deliver a lot of hard that the brand the series is best known for.

The film is based on three stories found in the A.A Milne books and it is very simple and sweet. We follow Pooh on a quest for honey (shocked right?) but he gets sidetracked when he meets up with Eeyore who cannot find his tail. The whole gang from the 100 acre woods start a quest to find Eeyore a new tail or ‘tael’, as they say spell it in the film. While on that quest they go to visit Christopher Robin’s house and find a note at his door. They gang discovers that he has been kidnapped by a monster called the “Backson”. From there we follow the gang on their quest to rescue Christopher Robin…and eeyore’s tail…and find honey for Pooh…Oh bother!

The video looks so perfect in glorious 1080p. The colors are vibrant and so crystal clear. I also loved the fact that you see the traditional drawing lines from the animators. The sound is also superb delivers a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Very impressive. Speaking of music, there are a bunch of songs by actress Zooey Deschanel. She is brillant and brings so much to the film with her beautiful folk songs. They really add so much to the film.

The extras are impressive like most Disney releases. “Winnie the Pooh and His Story Too” provides a look into the history of A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh. It is quick and worth a watch. There are about five deleted and alternate scenes included with introduction by the directors. The scenes total about 15 minutes and includes the following “The Tummy Song,” “Rabbit’s Friends and Relations,” “Original Eeyore Intro,” “Original Tigger Intro” and “Pooh Searches for a Tail”. There are two animated shorts are available: “The Ballad of Nessie” and “Mini Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Pooh’s Balloon”. Both very cute and worth a watch for sure. Included in most Disney films with songs you can jump to each of the film’s songs “Winnie the Pooh Theme Song,” “The Tummy Song,” “A Very Important Thing to Do,” “The Backson Song,” “It’s Gonna Be Great,” “Everything is Honey” and “The Winner Song Finale”. If you are a fan of the soundtrack there is a sing-along track that you can watch during the movie. “Creating the Perfect Winnie the Pooh Nursery” is actually a perfect feature for myself since my wife and I are currently expecting. It gives tips on designing a Pooh-themed nursery. Lastly there are about 8 minutes of Disney sneak previews. Overall this is a great set and totally worth the purchase. Don’t miss this.

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Film Review “The Swell Season”

Director: Nick August-Perna, Chris Dapkins, Carlo Mirabella-Davis
Starring: Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová
Distributed by: 7th Art Releasing
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have been a big fan of The Swell Season and Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová for many years. The film “Once” was such a great music film if not one of the best music based films in recent days. Glen and Markéta’s folk music is so powerful and it digs so deep into their listeners hearts. Since “Once”, the duo have toured the world and released an album “Strict Joy” (which I listen to at least one a week). This documentary was filmed over three years following their Oscar win for “Once”. It really captured the spirit of their music and delivers a great insight into singer/songwriters lives.

This documentary does not just show the positive side, it is very intense and shows the real behind the scenes with ups and downs. It is a very honest and intimate look into this amazing band. We get to visit Glen and Markéta hometowns and get to meet their families. It is very up-close look at the duo. We also got to go on tour with them as they played various venues and meet their fans. I do not think I could have asked for more in a film.

There are many different way to shoot a documentary. With this film, it just feel so natural like we aren’t watching them more like re-living it with them. You really get to see how much Glen and Markéta doing what they do best. The music in the film is fantastic as we get a real behind the scenes look and very raw view. The whole demo feel from the music is so great and really captures the essence of The Swell Season. If you are fan of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová you NEED to see this movie. If you haven’t heard of them, pick up a copy of “Once” on DVD, “Strict Joy” on CD and then watch this film.

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, review, season, swell

Blu-ray Review “Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale”

Directed by: Jalmari Helander
Starring: Tommi Korpela, Per Christian Ellefsen, Jorma Tommila, Jonathan Hutchings, Onni Tommila, Risto Salmi, Peeter Jakobi, Rauno Juvonen, Ilmari Järvenpää
Distributed by: Oscilloscope
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 84 min.

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

There is definitely something about this film that makes it stick. I have had numerous viewings of this film and it definitely gets better with each viewing. Christmas is my favorite holiday and I love holiday films but this is not your snuggley feel good film. Since it is considered a horror film though, it is almost virtually bloodless. I would have like to see more carnage but overall I was left relatively satisfied. I have a feeling that it is going to be ranked up there as a cult classic. along with “Black Christmas” and “Gremlins”. The film has a very large scale feel to it though doesn’t try to go overboard. The Blu-ray presentation is fantastic and really clear and the sound is also very impressive.

The story follows a young boy who believe that the Santa Claus is coming to town…literally, but he is not the happy giving St. Nick we know and love. During an American-lead dig on Korvatunturi mountain, which sits right outside the village, the secret of Santa Claus might have been discovered. With Christmas right around the corner it is up the boy to save the children of the village from being put on the naughty list.

The film is packed with great bonus features. The original two short films “Rare Exports Inc.” (2003) and “Rare Exports – The Official Safety Instructions” (2005) are included, which inspired this movie. “The Making of Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale” is definitely worth since the behind the scenes is very interesting. “Blood in the snow” is a look at the concept art from the film. My favorite feature is definitely the comparison for the animatics & computer effects since the film does have quite a bit of visual effects. Also included is a photo gallery featuing behind the scenes production shots. Lastly there is the original theatrical trailer from Finland, which made me want to see this film to begin with and is far better than the American trailer.

SYNOPSIS:
It’s the eve of Christmas in northern Finland, and an ‘archeological’ dig has just unearthed the real Santa Claus. But this particular Santa isn’t the one you want coming to town. When the local children begin mysteriously disappearing, young Pietari and his father Rauno, a reindeer hunter by trade, capture the mythological being and attempt to sell Santa to the misguided leader of the multinational corporation sponsoring the dig. Santa’s elves, however, will stop at nothing to free their fearless leader from captivity. What ensues is a wildly humorous nightmare – a fantastically bizarre polemic on modern day morality.

RARE EXPORTS: A CHRISTMAS TALE is a re-imagining of the most classic of all childhood fantasies, and is a darkly comic gem soon to be required perennial holiday viewing.

Official Site: http://www.oscilloscope.net/films/film/41/Rare-Exports-A-Christmas-Tale

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RareExportsMovie

Interview with Reggie Lee

Reggie Lee is playing Sgt. Wu on NBC’s “Grimm”, which premieres on October 28th. Reggie is also co-starred in Sam Raimi’s “Drag Me to Hell”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Reggie about his new show and what we can expect from season one.

Mike Gencarelli: Can you tell us about working on the series “Grimm”?
Reggie Lee: It’s going great. We are now filming our third episode and the show is what we call a procedural cop drama that takes fairy tales and drops them on their head. The series is from the creators of “Angel” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”. People are expecting this sort of dual world thing. This series is a little darker than the creator’s previous works and leans more to an “X-Files” type theme. The story follows Nick Burckhardt played by David Giuntoli who starts to see people transform into characters from the Grimm fairytales. He is the only one who can see these people transform so it creates an interesting dynamic between him and the other detectives. Everything is an adventure on this show.

MG: What can you tell us about your character?
RL: I play Sgt. Wu and he is basically a smart ass sergeant. The character is a lot of fun and he technically really smart but he also has some great one liners. We find out as the series progresses that he has an addiction problem that is tied to one of the other characters on the show.

MG: What has it been like filming in Portland?
RL: Portland is unbelievable! It’s just really great! Portland is almost like the 7^th lead character in the show. The landscape really lends to the story. Everything about the city is just great.

MG: What has it been like working with the rest of the cast?
RL: It’s been great. I have known Silas Weir Mitchell for quite awhile and it’s been great being back on a show with him again. David Giuntoli is a fresh new face and he has done really well. We are all on the same level in with our careers so there really isn’t one person who gets more attention than another. We have been really close since the start and I think both of these things have helped the show.

MG: How does this series differ from the others you have been involved in?
RL: This one is different because I have been with it from the ground up. The other shows I have worked on I have joined in the second season or there was a story arc that I was involved in as a reoccurring character. The other great thing about “Grimm” is that they created this character specifically for me after I had auditioned for a different role that I did not get. This character is really fun. I generally always play assholes and this character is nothing of the sort. I have a role in a film coming out Oct. 28 called “Safe” and I love it because I am finally being given characters that are diverse. My previous roles were just killing the guy and have no remorse. These recent roles are more like real life and I get to branch out.

MG: Since the character was created for you were you allowed any creative control?
RL: When you go with a series you almost always do. After an episode or two the writers start to write for your voice. Before I jumped into the project I wanted to know what exactly the character was going to be like. Jim Kouf and David Greenwalt who have been in the business for some time now have not one ounce of ego. They are the most collaborative people along with Sam Raimi that I have ever worked with.

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Filed Under: TV Interviews Tagged With: interview, lee, reggie

Interview with Kate Burton

Kate Burton is known for her role of Margo in John Carpenter’s “Big Trouble in Little China”. Kate is co-starring in NBC’s new show “Grimm”, playing the character Marie. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Kate about working on “Grimm” and also some of her upcoming projects.

Mike Gencarelli: Can you give us some background about your new show “Grimm”
Kate Burton: The story is an updated/modernized version of the Grimm fairy tales. I play Marie, who is the aunt of the main character Nick. Aunt Marie is sick with cancer and she tells Nick that he is a Grimm. Being a Grimm means Nick has supernatural powers which allow him to see things that normal people can’t. I have been in a lot of pilots and this is one of the best I have ever been in. The way the story is told is very gripping and funny. There is a little bit of a “Twin Peaks” feel to it but a little less perverse. My character was originally meant to be killed off in the pilot but it was decided against, so I return for the first episode and I am also going to also be in some dream sequences.

MG: You are currently shooting now correct?
KB: Yes. I just filmed the first episode in August and they have been filming ever since. I think they are going to be shooting 12 episodes plus the pilot. The show has been picked up for the beginning of the season and we will see where it goes from there.

MG: What do you think makes this show stand out and will make people want to watch it?
KB: Anyone who is interested in sci-fi/supernatural stories or magical themes, I think will like this show. I really think the show could take off! There are some really good stories. The Brothers Grimm really knew what they were doing. It’s just an interesting and gripping series.

MG: What was it like working on “2 Days in New York”?
KB: That was really fun as I don’t get to do comedy very much. Julie Delpy is very specific and knows what she wants. I worked for 2 days on the film on some really funny little scenes. Julie is really great and inspiring. The cast on the film is really great and a lot of fun.

MG: Can you tell us about another project of yours titled “Puncture”?
KB: That was a lot of fun. We shot that film in Houston about a year ago. The Kassen brothers were a lot of fun and really nice. It was a very happy experience. I have a wonderful scene with Chris Evans. I wish I was going to be able to go to the premier but I am shooting another television titled “Scandal”?

MG: What can you tell us about that show?
KB: The show is a mid-season replacement and I am not really sure when it’s going to air. I start shooting later in the week.

MG: Can you tell us about the film “Liberal Arts”?
KB: That’s a great movie that I really love. We shot in Ohio with director/writer/actor Josh Radnor. The film has a great cast which features Zack Efron, Allison Janney, Richard Jenkins and Elizabeth Olsen, who is an up and coming actress. Josh was really great to work with and our location was really great as well.

MG: What can you tell us about working on “Big Trouble in Little China”?
KB: That film is such a cult classic and it was my first movie. Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall and I were the only three white people in that movie [laughs]. Everyone else was Asian and I got to meet practically every Asian actor that was working in Hollywood at the time. We also met a lot of great actors that came over from China to be in the film. John Carpenter was fantastic to work with as he is such a pro. My character was really fun to play. We didn’t know how great the film was as it came out the same day as “Aliens”. The film has really endured and people just love that film. Victor Wong was so funny!

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Filed Under: TV Interviews Tagged With: burton, interview, kate

Concert Review: Bush & Chevelle with Filter, Orlando FL

Location: House of Blues, Orlando FL
Date: October 19, 2011
Bands: Bush, Chevelle and Filter

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Attending this concert was like heading back in time to the mid 90’s. I was blasted back to my teens listening to Bush and Filter in the early 90’s. Chevelle though was more around 2002-2004, during their peak years. Either way this concert is a great combination of hard rock. The concert was held at one of my favorite venues House of Blues at Downtown Disney in Orlando, FL. This venue is very intimate and very accessible. Overall the concert was decent but not up to par as to what I was expecting. I felt like it was missing that spark. I think I would have changed the lineup and had Chevelle open followed by Filter and then lead into Bush.

We started off with Filter lead by Richard Patrick. He had some mega energy and was right in the middle of the crowd…I mean literally. He was crowd surfing while singing. It was cool finally getting a chance to see them live. I have been a fan for many many years and still have my “Short Buss” cassette tape…that’s right kids cassette tape. The set was only eight short songs running about 30 minutes but they really did amp up the audience and kick off the night well. They even got all the classics in like “Hey Man Nice Shot”, which was their last song and they went off with a bang. We even got a chance to meet up with Richard Patrick after their set. Which is another reason why I love this venue, the bands are very accessible.

Chevelle came on stage next and definitely brought the energy. The crowd was roaring but I felt they where sort of upstaged by Richard Patrick antics prior from Filter. There set was loud and intense and the audience was cheering, but I wasn’t totally feeling it. I used this opportunity to set back from the open pit to get some air and re-collect waiting for Bush. They definitely played all the hits though and got the best responses from “Send the Pain Below” and “The Red”. Good music but band wasn’t very engaging.

When Bush came on things got a little nuts especially since people were all boozed up by that time. They blasted out on stage and the energy was very high and they jumped right into it with “Machinehead”. Everyone was singing along and jamming. I had one major problem though…Gavin Rossdale was very drowned out by the guitars and backgrounds. I enjoy loud music but his voice was getting major lost. They mixed in quite a few songs from their new album “The Sea of Memories”…and the energy cooled down. I don’t blame them for playing them since it is the main reason why they are touring. I actually enjoy the new album. The concert did end on a high note as they delivered the goods with the encore covering The Beatles “Come Together” and playing their classics “Glycerine” and “Comedown”.

Filter set list:
1. Welcome to the Fold
2. Drug Boy
3. No Love
4. Gimme All Your Lovin’ (ZZ Top cover)
5. (Can’t You) Trip Like I Do
6. Take a Picture
7. The Best Things
8. Hey Man Nice Shot

Chevelle set list
1. Family System
2. Jars
3. Get Some
4. Antisaint
5. Sleep Apnea
6. Face to the Floor
7. The Clincher
8. Letter From a Thief
9. Send the Pain Below
10. The Red
11. Vitamin R (Leading Us Along)
12. I Get It

Bush set list:
1. Machinehead
2. All My Life
3. The Chemicals Between Us
4. The Sound of Winter
5. Everything Zen
6. I Believe In You
7. The People That We Love
8. Greedy Fly
9. The Heart of the Matter
10. All Night Doctors
11. Swallowed
12 .The Afterlife
13. Little Things
Encore:
14. Come Together (The Beatles cover)
15. Glycerine
16. Comedown

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Filed Under: Concert Reviews Tagged With: bush, chevelle, concert, filter, fl, orlando, ...

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Page 18 of 69

Year: 2011

DVD Review “Rammbock: Berlin Undead”

3D Blu-ray Review “Cars 2”

3D Blu-ray Review “Toy Story 3”

3D Blu-ray Review “Toy Story 2”

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3D Blu-ray Review “Toy Story”

DVD Review “More Brains! A Return To The Living Dead”

Interview with Silas Weir Mitchell

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Blu-ray Review “Winnie the Pooh”

Film Review “The Swell Season”

Blu-ray Review “Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale”

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Interview with Reggie Lee

Interview with Kate Burton

Concert Review: Bush & Chevelle with Filter, Orlando FL