Blu-ray Review “The Cabin In The Woods”

Directed by: Drew Goddard
Starring: Richard Jenkins, Bradley Whitford, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Jesse Williams, Kristen Connolly
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: September 18, 2012
Running Time: 94 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

“The Cabin in the Woods” is one of the most original ideas for a film that I have seen in a long time. With a world of all remake and sequels, this is rare thing in Hollywood. The film was created by Drew Goddard (“Cloverfield”) and Joss Whedon (“The Avengers”). It is also a very large genre cross ranging for laugh-out-loud comedy to some sick-ass horror. The story focuses on a group of students (Kristen Connolly; Chris Hemsworth; Anna Hutchison; Fran Kranz and Jesse Williams) whole nice vacation at a secluded mountain cabin suddenly turns into a brutal fight for survival. There is so many levels to this film that I feel that even after watching it a few times, there is still so much you can miss. As I am surely not the only one this film leaves the options wide open for future installments, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. What I liked most about this film is that Drew and Joss are just big fans of themselves and they just aimed to deliver a fun and unique film. You will not be disappointing.

The Blu-ray presentation is very impressive and really delivers on all accounts. Lionsgate also released this film as a combo pack, so you get a Blu-ray disc of the film and also a digital copy. With the digital copy, you are able to choose between iTunes download or an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. The latter is easily the smarter choice of the two. The 1080p transfer looks absolutely amazing especially during the last 30 minutes. It is also presented its 2.39:1 original aspect ratio. The main star of this film is a truly amazing 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. When things get crazy in this film, that track really gets a nice work out.

The special features are just as impressive as the film is and does not disappoint for its fans.
There is an awesome audio commentary with writer/director Drew Goddard and writer/producer Joss Whedon, fans of the film are going to slow this! There is an really in-depth and informative behind-the-scenes documentary called “We Are Not Who We Are: Making The Cabin in the Woods”. There is a two-part featurette called “The Secret Secret Stash”, including “Marty’s Stash” and “Hi, My Name is Joss, and I’ll Be Your Guide”. Great stuff here! There is also two more Behind-the-scenes featurettes including “An Army of Nightmares: Make-Up & Animatronic Effects” and “Primal Terror: Visual Effects”, both of these are easily my favorite extras. You can also catch the fun “Wonder-Con Q&A with Joss and Drew”. Lastly there is a BLu-ray exclusive extra, which is the icing on the cake, called “It’s Not What You Think: The Cabin in the Woods Bonus View Mode”, I am going to leave that one as a surprise because it is AWE….SOME!!!

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DVD Review “Sky Commanders: The Complete Animated Series”

Created by: Hanna-Barbera
Director: Don Lusk
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 273 minutes

Series: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Growing up in the 80’s watching daily afternoon cartoons, I always enjoyed shows like “G.I. Joe”, “Thundercats” and of course “Sky Commanders”. This show was short but definitely left an impact on animated cartoons. It is not one of Hanna-Barbera’s best works but if you are looking for a trip back to the late 80’s, this is a great choice. “Sky Commanders” follows Commander Mike Summit as he leads a ragtag team of mountaineers against the forces of General Plague for control of a mysterious new continent and, of course, the world. The complete series is spread out over 2-discs and lasts only a short 13-episodes.

Unlike most Warner Archive releases, this series has not been remastered or restored for this DVD. The colors and animation still look decent but could have used a little extra love. It has though been manufactured from the best-quality video master currently available. The episodes are presented in 4×3 full frame and within its original aspect ration of 1.37:1. The audio includes a mono track like all Warner Archive releases and it works well with the series for sure. Nonetheless, this release should be very much welcomed as it is the first time that “Sky Commanders”, as a complete series, is hitting DVD.

Synopsis: Deep in the South Pacific, a tumultuous and untamed new continent has erupted, spawned by a highly unstable new element, known as Phaeta-7. If this powerful new element could be controlled, whoever possessed it would be the undisputed ruler of the world! One man, General Lucas Plague, is determined to hold that title. And it’s up to a rugged team of mountaineering experts, led by Commander Mike Summit, to stop him. Employing revolutionary new gravity-lock and laser-cable technology to traverse the ever-changing terrain of the High Frontier, Mike Summit’s Sky Commanders, and General Plague’s Raiders, are locked in mortal combat, with the fate of the entire world hanging in the balance! That narration heralded the arrival of a Sci-Fi show that truly boasted sky high action, depicting the battles of a group of hi-tech climbers against a terror militia for control of the planet in this complete 2-Disc, 13-Episode Collection.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Ghosts of the Abyss 3D”

Directed by: James Cameron
Starring: James Cameron, Bill Paxton
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: September 11, 2012
Running Time: 60 / 90 minutes

3D Theatrical Edition: 4 out of 5 stars
Extended Edition: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of of 5 stars

After being on a withdrawal from “Titanic”, I remember running out to see “Ghosts of the Abyss” in IMAX 3D. This was before 3D was in regular theatres, IMAX was the only way without red and blue glasses to see a film in the third dimension. The documentary follows director James Cameron and actor Bill Paxton, director from 1997 film “Titanic” as they travel to the final undersea resting place of the fated ship of dreams. The film itself is very interesting and gives some really great footage of the sunken beauty.

This release looks absolutely fantastic on 3D Blu-ray. Obviously the 3D looks far better then it did in theatres almost 10 years ago. The depth on the effects are very intense and really takes you exploring through the remains of the ship. Besides the 3D disc, this three-disc combo pack also comes with a Blu-ray (2D) of the film and also a DVD copy. The 3D disc presents the theatrical cut of the film, which runs 60 minutes. Though there is the extended edition of this film, which is located on the 2D Blu-ray and it runs 90 minutes. I enjoy the 3D tighter version a lot more, especially since the film was made to be watched in 3D.

The 1080p video resolution is overall very impressive and even though the film takes us to a dark park of the ocean, it is still sharp and bright. The film is also presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The audio on this is also very impressive with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The score takes advance of this feature the most. The special features on the release are disappointing though if you don’t count the extended edition as an extras (which I don’t). The first extra is called “Reflections From the Deep”, runs 30 minutes, and is a 6-part feature with James Cameron, Bill Paxton, and other crew chatting about shooting the film and the CH work that went into the project. The only other extra is called “The Cheese Sandwich Prank”, which is a very short clip of more unseen footage from the expedition.

Premise: Academy Award-winning Director and master storyteller, James Cameron journey’s back to the site of his greatest inspiration – the legendary wreck of the titanic. With a team of the world’s foremost historic and marine experts and friend Bill Paxton, he embarks on an unscripted adventure back to the final grave where nearly 1,500 souls lost their lives almost a century ago. Using state-of-the-art technology developed expressly for this expedition, Cameron and his crew are able to explore virtually all of the wreckage, inside and out, as never-before. With the most advanced 3D photography, moviegoers will experience the ship as if they are part of crew, right inside the dive subs. In this unprecedented motion picture event, made especially for IMAX 3D theatres and specially outfitted 35MM 3D theaters across the country, Cameron and his team bring audiences to sights not seen since the sinking 90 years ago and explore why the landmark vessel – more than any shipwreck – continues to intrigue and fascinate the public.

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DVD Review “The Garfield Show: Holiday Extravaganza”

Series Creators: Philippe Vidal, Robert Rea & Steve Balissat
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Vivendi Entertainment
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Episodes: 6
Running Time: 75 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to “The Garfield Show”, I have always been a fan. Of course it doesn’t compare to the classic Jim Davis cartoon but it is all we have right now. This release in particular is great since it focuses on my favorite time of the year, the Fall holidays. Well I guess I am not the only one since this release includes a hilarious collection Garfield’s favorite holidays, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas! If you are looking for a fun pack of episodes that will surely get you and your family in the holiday mood, look no further.

The episodes included are “The Haunted House”, “Which Witch”, “Turkey Trouble”, “Caroling Capers” and “Home For The Holidays Part 1 & 2″. Oh course I am partial to the Christmas episodes but all of them are very entertaining. There is also a bonus episode included called “Heir Apparent”. Each episode is about 10 minutes and in that time it delivers a good dose of our feline friend and his clueless mutt….oh and Odie also 😉 Vivendi Entertainment has been releasing a bunch of these collections for this show and let’s hope that they continue in the future.

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DVD Review “The Hanging Tree”

Directed by: Delmer Daves
Starring: Gary Cooper, Maria Schell, Karl Malden, George C. Scott, Karl Swenson
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Release Date: August 16, 2012
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 107 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I think of westerns, two people should come to mind, John Wayne and…Gary Cooper.  This movie was beautiful filmed during the later days of Gary Cooper’s career. “The Hanging Tree” is based of a prize winning novel and is well represented in the film. The scenery is also quite epic in this film, courtsey of the mountains west of Yakima, WA. Thanks to Warner Archive for finally releasing this classic on DVD. The newly remastered transfer looks fantastic.

For a film released back in 1959, it sure looks good.  The colors are really vibrant and sharp.  The film is also nicely presented in 16 X 9 letterbox with its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The audio is also quite satisfying with its mono track.  It showcases the dialogue and the film’s score very well. The only special feature included in a trailer, like most Warner Archive releases. This film is really well-presented  and is sure to make happy any fans of Cooper’s work.

Premise: Many stars saddled up and rode into Technicolor sunsets during the great Western revival of the 1950s, but only a few would be forever associated with the rugged individualists of the West. Among them are John Wayne, Randolph Scott and the start of The Hanging Tree, Gary Cooper. The story takes place in Skull Creek, an 1870s Montana gold camp. Dr. Joseph Frail (Cooper) arrives, setting out his shingle near the camp’s boom-or-bust hubbub of adventurers, ladies of fortune, mountain men and just plain decent folks. As skilled with a six-gun as with a scalpel, Frail will need both. A tragic past shadows his days. The treachery of the mob clouds his future. A determined immigrant (Maria Schell), a shifty-eyed miner (Karl Malden) and a hellfire preacher (debuting George C. Scott) figure prominently in Frail’s showdown with fate. Prominent, too, is the breathtaking countryside. Here the mountains are imposing. And a man alone looms ever taller.

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DVD Review “The Halloween Tree”

Directed by: Mario Piluso
Narrated by: Ray Bradbury
Starring: Annie Baker, Alex Greenwald, Edan Gross, Andrew Keegan and Leonard Nimoy.
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 70 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I remember growing up and looking forward to seeing this film each Halloween.  I have always been a big fan of Hanna-Barbera animated style. I am not sure what it is about animation but you can just tell that this is from the 90’s.  The fun little film also features the great voice talent of Leonard Nimoy (“Star Trek”) as Moundshroud. One thing that is a little bit disappointing about this release is that unlike most Warner Archive films, this film has not be remastered or restored. It was taken from the best-quality video master currently available, so it doesn’t look terrible but it could look MUCH better.

The film is presented in full frame with it’s original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The animated is almost 20 years old and it shows its wear a little. The colors seem a little dull and could have used a little sprucing up. The audio included is a typical Warner Archive mono track and sounds good enough. The only special feature included on this release is the film’s trailer. If you are looking for a trip down memory lane and something to get you in the holiday mood (and don’t have high expectations) then this film is for me.

Synopsis: Sit on the edge of your seat and enjoy master storyteller Ray Bradbury’s classic adventure of four youths who try to save the spirit of their friend Kip from the ghosts of Halloween past. The four encounter a mysterious character, Moundshroud who takes them on a magical journey that sweeps them back as far as 4,000 years and touches down in exotic places all over the world like Egypt, England, France and Mexico. Along the way they discover the magic and meaning of Halloween – and friendship. This enchanting adventure features the voice talents of Leonard Nimoy as Moundshroud and the animation wizardry of Hanna-Barbera. It’s a story as timeless as Halloween itself – a bubbling cauldron of thrills and suspense that will stir the imagination of the entire family. Bradbury’s popular story is destined to become a perennial Halloween favorite.

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Linnea Quigley chats about 80’s horror and reflects on her cult classic roles

Linnea Quigley is known best for her scream queen roles in films like Trash from “The Return of the Living Dead” and “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers”. She is the topic of focus in the new documentary “Screaming in High Heels: The Rise & Fall of the Scream Queen Era” along with Michelle Bauer and Brinke Stevens. Media Mikes had a chance to chat 80’s horror with Linnea and chatted about the dozen projects she has still yet to come.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us how “Screaming in High Heels: The Rise & Fall of the Scream Queen Era” came about?
Linnea Quigley: It was amazing. I got a call and asked about being in the documentary. They flew me out to Los Angeles. It was Michelle (Bauer), Brinke (Stevens) and I. And I haven’t seen Michelle in forever. It was really great seeing everybody. I really liked Jason. I wasn’t sure it was going to be as big as it has been. It was on Chiller TV. I went to the premiere screening in Chicago. It is just a greatdocumentary. It gives so much information but in a few way.

MG: [laughs] Great. Better obviously than being called pimple face. I was really shy in my school years.
LQ: To be called, it was just amazing. It was just the ultimate honor to hear that. It is something you never think of but always wish for it. A lot of women say it’s degrading but if it happened to them, I am sure they wouldn’t say that [laughs].

MG: Trash from “The Return of the Living Dead” has to be one of the best characters in the genre, can you reflect looking back on the role?
LQ: Oh man, I loved being in that role. I was into the punk rock thing and I was in a band. My character is not like who I am personally, so it was fun to play her. When you are that age, you don’t think anything is every going to happen to you and talk about death. It was fun to play that sort of character.

MG: How long did the make-up take once you turned zombie?
LQ: With all the painting of me and everything, I would say a good six hours. I have had some longer ones as well. The hard part was trying to get that white off afterwards because it had to be waterproof. You can imagine going home at 6am in the morning and nothing gets this off. The producer had me sit in his really nice Jaguar and there is still makeup he still can’t get off this leather seat [laughs]

MG: 1988, brought some of your most unique titles films “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers” and “Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama”, why do you feel these films are still loved by the fans?
LQ: For some reason, there are just some films that make an impact. They just had all the write qualities. They just came together with the right music and cast. You could’nt ever redo these films. It was just a special time. It was just the type of movie that never gets old.

MG: I always loved the idea of your “Linnea Quigley’s Horror Workout”, how did that comes about?
LQ: We were on the set of “Murder Weapon” and Ken Hall and I just started talking about what a good workout it is to do a horror film. I had to swing this axe over and over again. We just started brainstorming and decided to do it. We got the financing and just did it. We are actually doing to be doing a commentary soon and re-released it on DVD. We have a lot of funny stories just from the two days it took to get it done.

MG: How do you feel about “Silent Night, Deadly Night” getting remade?
LQ: Oh I didn’t know it! I thought it was remade a bunch of times already lol. The second one is like the first one [laughs]. It is news to me though. I hate to say it but they are going to have to come up with something pretty good because that film has been stretched out thin.

MG: How do you feel that the horror genre changed over the years, especially with all the recent remakes?
LQ: The only remake that I have liked is “Piranha 3D”. The “Scream” and “Saw” franchises are all more for the gore factor then a real plot. The first ones are ok but then they just get very unrealistic. There is a huge difference between the “Sleepaway Camp” series and then the “Saw” series.

MG: Did you ever get to keep an our your outfits or props from your films?
LQ: Well, when I first started I never thought there was a need to keep things. I have somethings from “Return of the Living Dead”. I was promised my outfit from “Night of the Demons”, but never came through with it. A lot of the movies I’ve done, we had to supply our own wardrobe so I do have those things. I have an ensemble of clothes to wear. I have the top from The “Horror Workout” still and the G-String from “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers”. It is kind of funny.

MG: Tell us what you have planned upcoming?
LQ: Yep, “Celluoid Bloodbath: More Prevues from Hell”comes out October 9th. They show trailers and I do little intros. That is really fun to watch to you like the older horror. “Cougar Cult” just got into Redbox. So I got to Redbox everyday and go “Oh…have you think this film” [laughs]. “Caesar and Otto’s Deadly Christmas” is coming out this Fall, it is really fun. Brinke and I are both in it and there are a bunch of great cameos, like Felissa Rose. Also I am suppose to do this movie called “The Trouble with Barry” later this month. I also just did this film where I have three age changes and a monster costume and that is called “Disciples”, which I also co-produced with Joe Hollow. I just did “Demonica”, which your gonna love this…it’s demons on skates. I did a short “Stella Buio”, which is getting really good reviews and going to the festivals. I also did a video for this band Sexcrement that Victor Bonacore directed, it is just so wild. On top of all that I’ve been doing some conventions. So it has been really amazing.

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Susan Graham talks about new short film “Quiet”

Susan Graham stars, co-wrote and co-produced the new short film “Quiet.” Some of her other work includes co-producing the web short “2 Girls 1 Cop” (seen on Comedy Central) as well as the award-winning series “Natural Hazards.”  Media Mikes had a chance to ask Susan a few questions about her short film.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us about your latest short film “Quiet”?
Susan Graham: “Quiet” is inspired by a true story. I play a woman named Ali who is forced to lie and say she is her partner’s sister in order to be with her in the hospital.

MG: Where did you come up with the story and was it always planned as short?
SG: It is based on the real life experience of Janice Langbehn, who lost her partner Lisa Pond in a Florida hospital in 2007. Despite having all the legal documents, neither Janice nor the couple’s three children were allowed to say good-bye. “Quiet” is currently being expanded into a feature film.

MG: You also take on the role of producer, do you have plans to produce more?
SG: I love producing. I find it intellectually and creatively fulfilling (and at times
frustrating!). I hope tohave the opportunity to produce more films.

MG: What was your biggest challenge on this project?
SG: We were so lucky to have the support of an amazing group of executive producers to see us through to the end of “Quiet,” so we are extremely grateful. Major challenges included casting and locations, given that it is a longer film set in a Texas hospital. However, I think we prevailed.

MG: Where can people currently see this short “Quiet”?
SG: “Quiet” is currently doing the rounds at festivals nationwide. For updated screening info head to www.quietthemovie.com

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Help support A Sound of Thunder’s new album “Time’s Arrow” on Kickstarter

Join the Legion of Thunder and help “A Sound of Thunder” complete our next epic full-length album TIME’S ARROW…11 new tracks of classic metal! Click here to see how you can help them out on Kickstarter!

The title of our new album is TIME’S ARROW.  We’ve already begun recording with the same band lineup, studio and producer as OUT OF THE DARKNESS, and a new batch of 11 songs that will blow you away! The centerpiece of the album is the epic 9-minute sci-fi/metal title track “Time’s Arrow”, based on a short-story by our drummer Chris Haren. The album as a whole touches on our roots in metal, prog, classic rock, and even classical, blues, and jazz, and takes us into new territory while maintaining the overall classic metal sound.

Drums, bass, and rhythm guitars for TIME’S ARROW have already been completely recorded.  With your help we will track lead vocals, lead guitars, and keyboards, then mix the final album all at Assembly Line Studios in Vienna, Virginia.  Studio time is already tentatively booked and with your support we’ll complete the album this fall!

You can order TIME’S ARROW in the following formats:

  • Digital Download
  • Autographed CD
  • Honored Heroes Pack (Your name in the album booklet)
  • Ultra-Limited Box Set (including TIME’S ARROW short story and much more…see rewards for details!)

(Larger rewards that include the Honored Heroes Pack can be upgraded to the Box Set…just add $30 to your pledge, or contact the band!)

In addition to the full-length album TIME’S ARROW, we are announcing another release, the QUEEN OF HELL EP, exclusively available to fans who help us fund TIME’S ARROW via Kickstarter!   That’s right, a unique release by the band ONLY AVAILABLE HERE! 

Click here to see how you can help them out on Kickstarter!

 

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CD Review: Edie Adams “The Edie Adams Christmas Album: Featuring Ernie Kovacs (1952)”

Edie Adams
“The Edie Adams Christmas Album: Featuring Ernie Kovacs (1952)”
Release Date: October 9th, 2012
Label: Omnivore Recordings
Tracks: 15
Running Time: 29 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Omnivore Recordings is the label behind releasing this gem of a Christmas record. Edie Adams sings the best Christmas tracks along with Ernie Kovacs. There are 15 classic that have been pulled out from rare audio air checks from the TV show, “Kovacs Unlimited” dating back to the early to mid 1950’s. These recordings only exist today because Edie herself paid for them to be recorded. This holiday album from Edie Adams is also her first Christmas album. If you are looking for more audio titles from the archive of both Ernie Kovacs and Edie Adams, stand tuned since Omnivore and Ediad recently announced a deal together to release a bunch of unreleased recording.

There is just something about these tracks that make them very fun and entertaining. Even though they are from way before my timem still listening to these Christmas tracks from the 1950s, really put me in the mood. Edie Adams had just such an amazing voice and add that to the charm of Ernie Kovacs, this is a perfect match. Edie brought the vocals and Ernie brought the humor. “Silver Bells” is a great notable collaboration of the two. Some of the classics are tracks like “Winter Wonderland”, “White Christmas” and “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town”. There is even a fun little Irish track “Christmas In Killarney” and also “It’s a Marshmallow World” makes me laugh every time.

I know today is the age of digital downloads and MP3, but I feel that his album really deserves to be listed to on Vinyl LP. I am not sure if it is available at this time but it would be a great idea if it is not. You can just hear the cracks and unique sounds that this was home recorded. Music today is way to polished and produced, it is very refreshing to here a different type of Christmas recordings. I could see myself putting this album on, relaxing with my wife and daughter and sipping some hot chocolate on a cold night. If you are looking to get some of that old time Christmas feeling, this is a must purchase for sure!

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Check out video for Texas in July’s latest song “Cry Wolf” and pre-order the upcoming album now!

Texas In July has just premiered a brand new track today, called “Cry Wolf” from their self-titled album that will be out on October 9. This is the very first song revealed off of the new album. Texas In July is the follow up to their Equal Vision Records debut, One Reality, which was released in April 2011 and debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard New Artist/Heatseekers Chart and also placed on the Billboard 200, Rock, Independent, and Hard Rock charts. The band has just returned from a tour in Australia, and will next headline a Canadian tour with support from labelmates Glass Cloud, before heading out on the full US Unshakeable Tour supporting For Today this fall. They will close out the year on a UK/European tour as direct support to Miss May I this winter. All upcoming tour dates can be seen here. Pre-orders for the new album also launched last week, with each bundle coming with an instant digital download of “Cry Wolf”.

Pre-order link – http://texasinjuly.merchnow.com/

 

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Book Review “The Jaws Log: Expanded Edition”

Author: Carl Gottlieb
223 pages
Newmarket Press
Release date: Originally released in 1975 / Expanded Edition – Aug 7, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

One of the most influential books ever written about the daily ins and outs of making a movie, Carl Gottlieb’s “The Jaws Log” is a behind the screen account of the creation of one of the most popular, both critically and at the box office, films of all time: Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece, “Jaws.”

A friend of Spielberg, Gottlieb was hired by the director to work on the script of the film during filming. As Gottlieb was also an actor, with appearances in such films as “M*A*S*H” and the Barbra Streisand comedy “Up the Sandbox,” he was also assigned the role of Amity’s newspaper editor Harry Meadows, a role that was quite sizeable in Peter Benchley’s source novel. The book begins with the conception of the film and ends with the successful sneak previews that “Jaws” enjoyed prior to opening on June 20, 1975. As Gottlieb says in his introduction, “This is how I saw it.”

Having sold over 2 million copies since it was first published (and by the stack of copies on my bookshelf I can honestly say I’m a proud part of those 2 million), “The Jaws Log” has influenced whole generations of filmmakers since its release. Among the directors that have sung it’s praises: Rob Reiner, John Landis, Rod Lurie and Bryan Singer. As someone that was on the set daily, Gottlieb is well equipped to recount and share the inside tales that have captivated fans for almost four decades.

As this is “the Expanded Edition,” originally published shortly after the 25th Anniversary of “Jaws” was celebrated in 2000, the book contains an introduction by Peter Benchley and an additional 25 page “Afterward” by Gottlieb updating many of the stories in the book. If you’ve never read “The Jaws Log” before, you are missing one of the best documents EVER published on the creation of a film. If you’ve only read the 1975 original, prepare to take a trip down memory lane while collecting a whole new array of memories to treasure forever.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Titanic: Limited 3D Edition”

Directed by: James Cameron
Starring: Leonardo Dicaprio, Kate Winslet
Number of discs: 4
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Paramount Home Entertainment
Release Date: September 10, 2012
Running Time: 194 minutes

Titanic 3D: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

When you hear the word 3D conversion, most avid film-goers will cringe. Though you can relax with this film since the 3D is nothing short of amazing and breathtaking. The film looks like it was even originally shot in 3D. The 1080p presentation is easily one of the best on the Blu-ray format. As is the film’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, definitely the highest of high definition audio presentations. I mean what else did you expect honestly from Mr. James Cameron. The film is the second highest grossing film to Cameron’s latest “Avatar” and deserves such an amazing presentation. Within this four-disc combo pack, the breakdown of the discs are as follows: Disc one is the Blu-ray 3D movie- part one, Disc two is the Blu-ray 3D movie- Part Two, disc three contains a standard Blu-ray (with the film in 2D) + three filmmaker commentaries and disc four includes the bulk of the special features with never before seen footage. Lastly there is also a Digital Copy included (wish it was Ultraviolet though).

To be honest knowing how much love that Cameron put into this 3D conversion that there are no 3D bonus content included on the 3D discs. Nonetheless this release is extremely jam-packed with special features. The first disc including the three audio commentary tracks, all from 2005. I guess everything was said well the first time so no need to revisit it for this release. I would have liked to seen Cameron do a track just on the 3D of the film. On disc three, we get three commentary tracks. The first is with James Cameron and he covers all aspects of the film from beginning to end. This is obviously a must-listen commentary track, no question. Next up. there is an audio commentary from Historians Don Lynch and Ken Marschal. This is a very technical and thorough commentary track but still a must for all people interested in the history of the Titanic.

Lastly, there is an packed audio commentary with a crazy amount of cast and crew, also from 2005. This is single biggest commentary track that I have ever seen, so I going to try and split it up. There are 15 members of the cast participated, including primary cast of Gloria Stuart, Kate Winslet, Frances Fisher, Bill Paxton, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates. Also included is Bernard Hill, Danny Nucci, Ioan Gruffudd, Lewis Abernathy, Jason Barry, Jeanette Goldstein, Jonathan Hyde, Suzy Amis and Victor Garber. On the production side there is Executive Producer Rae Sanchini, Producer John Landau, Second Unit Director Steve Quale, First Assistant Director Josh McLaglen, Camera Operator/Steadicam Jimmy Muro, Director of Photography Russell Carpenter, Costume Designer Deborah Scott, 4-Ward/VFX Supervisor Robert Skotak, Art Director Martin Laing, Production Designer Peter Lamont, Unit Production Manager Kevin De La Noy, Digital Domain-VFX Supervisor Rob Legato and Stunt Coordinator Simon Crane. Composer James Horner, Music Editor Joe Rand, Re-Recording Mixer Gary Rydstrom and Sound Designer/Re-Recording Mixer Christopher Boyes cover the sound of the film, as well as its music and score. Some miscellaneous crew including Deep Dive Technology Coordinator Ralph White, Core Extra Ellen Mower, Core Extra Judy Prestininzi and Etiquette Coach Lynne Hockney. Most had been recorded separately and later edited together, but they are well edited and works well.

Moving on to disc four, we get the bulk of the special features starting off with two fantastic documentaries.  The first is called “Reflections on Titanic”, runs just over an hour long.  It is a four-part look at the this epic film. Cast and crew speak on setting the sinking of the ship against a classic romance. The feature covers the film before it’s release, during its releases and evening leading into its 3D conversion and 3D premiere. Easily one of my favorite features.  Next up with have “Titanic: The Final Word with James Cameron”, which runs just over an hour and a half.  I had watched this prior on the Bio Channel, I believe.  I wasn’t a big fan of it but it still deserves to be checked out. It features James Cameron and eight other field  experts discussing what really happened to the RMS Titanic.

There are about an hour of deleted and extended scenes, all which include optional commentary from James Cameron.  These also are the last of the extras to be presented in HD.  The rest are all in 480p standard definition. There are 31 production behind-the-scenes short featurettes, each running about 1-3 minutes. Included are “Upside Down Wreck Miniature”, “1912 Morph Transition VFX”, “Digital People”, and “Iceberg/Deck VFX”, just to name a few of my favorites. Continuing with the production side of the extras, “Construction Timelapse” is a look into the making of the ship with optional Ed Marsh commentary. “Deep Dive Presentation” is a narrated tour with James Cameron through the wreckage of the Titanic. “$200,000,001: A Ship’s Odyssey” is a montage of behind-the-scenes footage from the crew, basically a long gag reel. There are three featurettes on the “Videomatics” including an intro, “Sinking Sequence” and “Deep Dive”.  There are also four short but sweet featurettes focusing on the “Visual Effects” with “VFX Shot Breakdown: “Engine Room””, “VFX How-To For “I’m Flying”” and “VFX How-To For “First Class Lounge”” and lastly, “Titanic Sinking Simulation”.

Rounding up these astounding amount of extras, we get to some of the archive material.  There is a music video for “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion.  There are many trailers and TV spots included as well as a still gallery. There is a reproduction of his script included, storyboards, photographs, as well as concept posters and one sheets from both the 1997 and 2012 releases. Lastly there are Titanic Parodies including the MTV’s ‘1998 Movie Awards’ Skit, Saturday Night Live’ Skit from January 9, 1999 and ‘Titanic’ in 30 Seconds. So overall, this release is obviously a MUST-PURCHASE!!! One of my favorite releases of the entire year! I can finally enjoy the film in not only HD but also 3D, while not having to worry about getting up many times to use the bathroom.

 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3d, bluray, edition, limited, review, titanic, ...

Blu-ray Review “Hocus Pocus”

Director: Kenny Ortega
Starring: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, Vinessa Shaw
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running Time: 96 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 0 out of 5 stars

Halloween is right around the corner and as much as I love my horror films, this time of the year always makes me think about “Hocus Pocus”. The film is directed by Kenny Ortega, who also did the cult-classic “Newsies” (and yes, “High School Musical”). This film is a perfect family Halloween movie. It has really truly fantastic cast of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy. The film is funny, yet spooky and packs some great special effects. If all that isn’t great who doesn’t love the songs in the film like “I Put a Spell On You”. Classic…yet under-appreciated. Fans of this great film, this film has never looked or sounded better. Sit back and get ready get a spell put on you.

If you still own your “Hocus Pocus” DVD, you might be finally able to toss it away. This Blu-ray definitely takes a huge jump in quality. It is not a perfect presentation but still impressive and worth the 10 year wait for an HD upgrade. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also great, especially with the songs and score. The film is being released as a combo pack with a Blu-ray disc and a DVD disc. In fact, the DVD in this set is the exact one released back in 2002, which means it is still a non-anamorphic widescreen presentation of the film. To me personally though, the real sell for this release is obviously the Blu-ray.

Sadly, there are absolutely no special features included on this release, not even the original theatrical trailer. I would have loved to seen some fun extras like the classic Disney animated short “Trick or Treat” starring Donald Duck or at least the 1994 episode of The Discovery Channel’s “Movie Magic”, which ties-in with the film itself. Oh well, I guess we will we are lucky enough just to have this film on Blu-ray. It just shows how this film is just considered another catalog title to Disney and will probably always remand-so.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, hocus, pocus, review

Blu-ray Review “The Victim”

Directed by: Michael Biehn
Starring: Michael Biehn, Jennifer Blanc-Biehn, Ryan Honey, Denny Kirkwood, Danielle Harris
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Running Time: 83 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

This film is really the Michael Biehn show. He not only stars, he also wrote and directed this and even co-produced with his wife, Jennifer Blanc-Biehn under BlancBiehn Productions. I have been tracking this film for a little over a year now and let me tell you, I was left very satisifed. The film is very intelligent and sharp. It passes back and forth in time without getting confusing, while releasing little bits of critical plot. It also packs a hell of an ending as well. Michael Biehn really did a great job in this film, as did Jennifer Blanc-Biehn. Really top notch performances all around. The film also was really smartly shot and really keep you interest the entire time.

When two best friends, Annie (Jennifer Blanc-Biehn) and Mary (Danielle Harris) go out on a date with two Sheriff’s Deputies (Ryan Honey, Denny Kirkwood), there life’s will never be the same. When Annie’s witness a violent act at the hands of two, she barely escapes and hides from them with the help of Kyle (Michael Biehn), a recluse living in the middle of the woods. Kyle’s solitary life is turned upside down into chaos after helping Annie.. It is up to both of them to expose the corrupt cops and put this to an end. But who is the real Victim here?

I have always been a fan of Biehn since “The Terminator” and “Aliens”, I mean who isn’t. But he is really kicking some ass in the last few years with this film and even “The Divide”. He’s been putting out some really good shit. I really hope he plans to step behind the camera again but he is definitely one of the few actors, who is able to wear all these different types of hats and still make the film kick-ass. You can tell that a lot of love and labor went into this film for sure and I think that is why it succeed so well. This will entertain a wide variety of genre fans from thriller to horror. Don’t miss this for sure.

When it comes to Anchor Bay’s Blu-ray presentation it definitely upholds the Grindhouse-esque look and feel. The 1080p transfer delivers a very sharp and crisp video, which is presented within its widescreen 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The audio comes packed with an impressive Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track, which really captures the suspense and thrilling aspects of the film. With the special features, I was really hoping for a little more to be honest. There is a very entertaining and informative commentary with writer/director/actor Michael Biehn and his wife producer/actor Jennifer Blanc. After interviewing this duo, I really appreciated this track much more, since I truly understand how much they put into this film. The other extra on the disc is “The Victim: Behind the Scenes”, it covers the production side of the film with some cast/crew interviews.  It is overall decent but I wish it was a little longer.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, review, victim
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