2012 - Page 46 of 118 - MediaMikes

DVD Review “The Cool Ones”

Directed by: Gene Nelson
Starring: Roddy Mcdowall, Debbie Watson, Gil Peterson, Phil Harris, Robert Coote, Nita Talbot,George Furth, Mrs. Miller, The Bantams, Glen Campbell, The Leaves, T.J. And The Fourmations
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 110 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I enjoy the musical genres, just as much as the new person. This isn’t really a musical more a film based in the music world. I feel that the film is really aged and although this entertaining was a bit of struggle to get through. Roddy McDowall co-starring in this film was a real draw for me but he wasn’t really front and center enough for me to really dig it. But the music in the film was easily enough to make this film at least watchable including classic tracks like “This Town”.

Like in the past though, Warner Archive does not disappoint the the newly restored transfer of this film. It is presented in its original aspect ration of 2:40.1 and in 16X9 widescreen letterbox. The audio in the film works well with the music scenes with its Dolby Mono track. Fans of 60’s music films should definitely check this out, worth at least one watch. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film.

Synopsis: Hey, you! Wanna catch the L.A. garage band that first recorded the oft-covered rock essential “Hey Joe?” That would be the Leaves, seen here in a performance of “In the House of Dr. Stone.” The Cool Ones has more cool musical stuff, too. Like Glen Campbell on his way to country/pop renown. Plus “This Town,” the song composed by Lee Hazlewood (the film’s music supervisor) that would become a Frank Sinatra staple. And the quirky song styling of mid-’60s camp sensation Mrs. Miller. The film’s story spoofs the music industry as it unwinds its loopy tale of a rock kingmaker (Roddy McDowall) and the girl-boy singing duo he plans to rocket to the top of the charts by making them everyone’s favorite romantic pair. Tammy TV and film star Debbie Watson plays the duo’s starry-eyed ex-go-go dancer, and Gil Peterson portrays the handsome crooner whose career had been flatlining. Look for uncredited Teri Garr (Young Frankenstein).

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: cool, dvd, review

DVD Review “Young Cassidy”

Directed by: Jack Cardiff
Starring: Rod Taylor, Julie Christie, Edith Evans, Michael Redgrave, Flora Robson, Maggie Smith
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 110 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Warner Archive’s is releasing another film in Rod Taylor’s filmography following “The Liquidator”. This film is not as entertaining. It was stated that Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide’s has called this his “best role ever” for Rod Taylor. I agree that is it a very engaging and emotional role and he did nail it but the film itself is where I had issues. The running time dragged for me at almost two hours. Good supporting roles comes from Julie Christie and Maggie Smith. At least this film carried the approval from O’ Casey himself and was based on his autobiography.

Like in the past though, Warner Archive does not disappoint the the newly restored transfer of this film. It is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and in 16X9 widescreen letterbox. The audio in the film is nothing that the Dolby Mono track can’t handle either. Nonetheless, if you are a fan of Taylor’s work and looking for a chance to own this piece of cinema on DVD…you know have the chance. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film.

Synopsis: Young John Cassidy is a driven man. By day, he works manual labor, secretly trains in the hills with a band of revolutionaries eager to take Ireland’s fate into their own hands, joins mates for a pint, or sometimes enjoys the company of a lovely Dublin lass. By night and into the wee hours, he puts pencil to paper and writes of working-class Irish life. He will – he must – be a writer. The coming of age of renowned Irish playwright Sean O’ Casey (Cassidy is a name O’ Casey sometimes used for himself) comes to the screen in a colorful and atmospheric biopic directed by legendary John Ford (who left the film due to illness) and Jack Cardiff. Rod Taylor plays the title character, bringing strength and earthiness to his “best role ever” (Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide). A talented cast – including Julie Christie and Maggie Smith – adds to the appeal of a film whose script was

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DVD Review “The Liquidator”

Directed by: Jack Cardiff
Starring: Rod Taylor, Trevor Howard, Jill St. John, Wilfred Hyde White, David Tomlinson, Akim Tamiroff, Eric Sykes, Gabriella Licudi
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 104 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I don’t think that anyone can deny that Rod Taylor is bad-ass. I just don’t see him working as well as Sean Connery did in this James Band rip-off. The film entertains for the most part but is missing the suave and gadgets to be considered a respectable spy entry. Cool fact, the two women in this film actually ended up being in Bond-related films anyway. Gabrielle Licudi was 1967’s “Casino Royale” and Jill St. John, played Tiffany Case in “Diamonds Are Forever”. I guess you can say they willed the roles.

Warner Archive is responsible for digging this 1965 film out of the vault and bringing it to DVD for the first time ever. It is presented in 16X9 widescreen letterbox with its original aspect ratio of 2.40:1.
The audio included is a Dolby Mono track, which works mostly well but the action scenes are little deprived. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film. If you are looking for a fun action-film that aims to steal a little thunder from 007, then I would definitely check this out.

Synopsis: In an era when Sean Connery, Michael Caine, James Coburn, Dean Martin, Robert Vaughn and more brought varying styles of secret-agent cool to movie screens, along came one of the most unusual spies ever to enter the Top Secret realm of hush-hush, bang-bang and kiss-kiss. Rod Taylor plays Boysie Oakes, Agent L, who enjoys the swinging-London lifestyle perks that come with espionage but would rather not engage in the squeamish business of killing, so he hires a professional hitman for that part of the job. Of course, events soon plunge Oakes into situations that require him to be a hero in spite of himself. Jack Cardiff directs this offbeat caper based on the John Gardner novel, reuniting with the star he guided previously in Young Cassidy. The cast includes two beauties who would soon return to sexy subterfuge: Gabrielle Licudi in 1967’s spoof Casino Royale and Jill St. John, who played Tiffany Case in Diamonds Are Forever.

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Blu-ray Review “Disneynature’s Chimpanzee”

Directors: Alastair Fothergill, Mark Linfield
Narrated by: Tim Allen
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 78 minutes

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

I look forward to Disneynature’s films every Earth Day for the last few years. This year’s installment “Chimpanzee” has been my most anticipated. Well, let’s say that I was very impressed with the film. It takes more story approach and really delves into the lives of these Chimps. It feels more like a movie and less like a documentary. Tim Allen’s narration provides a great narrative and gets a bunch of great laughs as well. Disney does not disappoint with its Blu-ray presentation, as always. This film look glorious in its 1080p transfer. It also packs a wallop in its fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. Fans of the Disneynature series will enjoy this film for sure and I sure hope that they are planning to continue this series.

Film Synopsis: “From Disneynature, the studio that brought you “Earth,” “Oceans,” and “African Cats,” comes “Chimpanzee” — a remarkable story of individual triumph and family bonds. Journey deep into the African forest and meet Oscar, an adorable young chimp with an entertaining approach to life. The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimps who love creating mayhem. His playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Stunning hi-definition images bring you up close and personal as Oscar and his family navigate the complex territory of the forest. It’s an inspiring and life-changing adventure that overflows with courage and charm. And it will capture your heart.”

This release is jam-packed with special features and the following are exclusive only to the Blu-ray release. “On Location: The Making of Chimpanzee” includes a series of short featurettes that tells what in the great lengths that the filmmakers went to tell the story of Oscar and his chimpanzee family. “30 Years in the Making” includes the story of the team of researchers who have been observing chimpanzees in the Ivory Coast for 30 years. “The Heart of the “Chimpanzee”” is a great behind-the-scenes featurettes on how and why the film was made. “Piece of the Puzzle” is an amazing two-hour daily trek from one of the cameramen in order to hike through the forest to get to the chimpanzees. “Don’t Blame the Tool” is a funny feature how chimpanzees’ use rocks as tools to prepare their food. One of the funniest scenes in the movie BTW. “Scar’s Army” looks into the struggles between the film’s two rival chimpanzee groups who share the same forest home. “Camp Invaders” switches focus to the creepy, crawly creatures found at the filmmakers’ forest camp. “Forest of Bees” goes into detail on how the crew spent two days wading through a sea of bees in order to capture 20 seconds of footage. Lastly there is a music video for song rise from McClain Sisters and also a behind-the-scenes look into the shoot.

The following extras are the only extras included on the DVD, but are also on the Blu-ray. “See ‘Chimpanzee,’ Save Chimpanzees” focuses on the conservation program and how Disneynature will make a donation to JGI to protect chimpanzees today and tomorrow with the purchase of this release. The feature also includes an interview with Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace. “Disney’s Friends for Change—This” highlights Disney’s Friends for Change program, that showcases steps that kids and families can take to make a positive impact on the world and the people and animals that live there. “Disney’s Conservation Legacy” look into the conservation efforts that Disney sponsors around the world.

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DVD Review “Revenge: The Complete First Season”

Creator: Mike Kelley
Starring: Emily VanCamp, Madeleine Stowe, Gabriel Mann, Henry Czerny, Ashley Madekwe
Number of discs: 5
MPAA Rating: TV-PG
Distributed by: ABC Studios
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 924 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
EXtras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I started watching “Revenge”, I enjoyed it but then I thought to myself how are they going to keep this going. How long can she really seek revenge? Well I was very pleasantly surprised with this season and each each episode on the show only get better and better and reveals many new mysteries throughout. Emily VanCamp is one tough girl, I would definitely not want to cross her (I have a feeling she holds a grudge). Madeleine Stowe really steals the spotlight in this show. Her portrayal of the high-society Hampton wife was one of the best roles on television. If you are a fan of this show, you will know my concerns on the topic. ABC Studios is not one to usually release their shows on Blu-ray (besides “Once Upon a Time”). I am not sure why they did not in the case, especially since the norm is leaning towards Blu-ray releases and the show is already presented in HD. The DVD itself does look nice though within its aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and an audio track of Dolby Digital 5.1. Nonetheless Mike Kelley has really developed a very deep and interesting season that I have the feeling will be able to continue for many years to come.

ABC’s “Revenge” takes us through Emily Thorne’s (Emily VanCamp) quest for revenge. She plans to uncover every deep, dark secret for one of the Hampton’s most powerful family, the Graysons. She finds that beneath the luxurious lifestyle of the Hamptons, lies a dark secret within that family concerning the wrongful arrest and leading death of her father. As Emily unraveled this twisted tale of passion, suspense, and ultimate redemption, she finds clues about her father and the people responses for his framing. Emily Thorne sets (Emily VanCamp) her vindictive plot against Victoria Grayson (Madeleine Stowe), the reigning queen of the Hamptons, and everyone else who destroyed her family. Of course things don’t always go to plan and things her complicated and unravel in the wake of an unexpected love triangle between Emily, the son of her greatest nemesis, and a forgotten face from her past.

If this show isn’t good enough it’s bonus features are also extremely impressive. “Nolan Ross Exposed” is a faux feature, which exposes the truth behind the character Nolan Ross (Gabriel Mann) with sit-down interview footage and reporter Sarah Juarez (Stephanie Maura Sanchez) looks to get answers. “Roadmap To Revenge” is narrates by Emily VanCamp as she goes through her road to revenge for the show. “At Home In “The Hamptons”” is a look into the high life with Ashley Madekwe as she plays tour guide into the larger-than-life role in the show. “Haute Hamptons: Femme Fatale Fashion” takes a look into the styling of the two leading ladies, Emily VanCamp and Madeleine Stowe with Costume Designer Jill Ohanneson. There are six quite decent deleted scenes and a bunch of great bloopers and outtakes. There is also an audio commentary on the pilot episode with Creator Mike Kelley and Actress Emily VanCamp. Lastly there two music videos including Christina Perri’s “Distance” and Angus & Julia Stone’s “For You.”

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Brandon Johnson talks about working on Adult Swim’s “NTSF:SD:SUV::”

Brandon Johnson is the co-star of Adult Swim’s “NTSF:SD:SUV::” He is joined by Paul Scheer, Kate Mulgrew, Rebecca Romijn, Martin Starr, June Diane Raphael and Rob Riggle. The show has just started its second season and already is shaping up to trump its first. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Brandon to find about what he like most about playing Alphonse and what we can expect this season.

Mike Gencarelli: What do you think makes “NTSF:SD:SUV::” so unique?
Brandon Johnson: I feel like you get a lot of bang for your buck. We think our audience is really smart. We know they are. We don’t try and hit it over their head, in terms of “Do you all get what a crime procedural is?”. One of the coolest things about Adult Swim and their shows is that they get really amazing talent to be able to come in and do these shows. What separates us from everyone else is our cameos. We have Ray Liotta in there. I have no idea how they got Kate Mulgrew, but she is hilarious. You look at it and it seems like just a little show but then you look closer and realize we have every member of “The Office”, the members of “Human Giant” and most of cast from “Freak and Geeks”, including Paul Fieg. If you are a nerd, we will appeal to you.

MG: If I wasn’t already a big fan, that is really a great sale for the show.
BJ: [laughs], I know right. If you are a computer nerd…we have a robot. If you like “Star Trek”…we have Kate Mulgrew. We are taking care of you nerds.

MG: Where do you get inspiration for Alphonse?
BJ: I love the contrast of LL Cool J and Ice-T as cops on television. Alphonse has these great one-liners that are pretty potent but he is terrified of everything. I like to be the basic cop like “Hey man, I may not have gone to college and don’t understand words on paper but I know your a criminal” [laughs]. As much as David Caruso believes that sunglasses improves his skills — LL Cool J believes that flexing his pecks makes him a better cop. I try to do the best I can to convey “I really don’t know what doing on here but I don’t like it”. [laughs]

MG: Have you gotten a script and just thought it was too over-the-top?
BJ: No. We are really happy that the writers are really really good at what they do. I am just really trying to keep up with them. The creators knew what they wanted to do with the show, so by the time we got there it was really tight.

MG: What can we expect from season two of “NTSF:SD:SUV::”
BJ: Season two you get to see the lovely NTSF:AK:CANOE, which is another NTSF in Alaska. We are going to Alaska to meet my father, who is being played by Steven Williams.

MG: How do you compare this season to the first season?
BJ: The first season, I think we were trying to win you. We went to different locations in each episodes and there wasn’t a lot of focus on some of the other characters. This season your are going to get more of June (Diane Raphael), a lot of Rebecca (Romijn), and Martin (Starr) gets his own episode. One of the things we wanted to do this season was say “Look now that you know how crazy we are, let’s go ahead and give you a look at each of the characters”. I mean there will always be (Paul) Scheer, since we need him and he is just amazing.

MG: Any room for improv?
BJ: It is a weird thing. It is like a Jeter situation [laughs]. “We know that you were a great baseball player once and still are and if we ever need those skills that will be amazing, but you trust the skipper on this one and just do your job” [laughs]. I thankfully don’t have to improv that much. The writers are really good and help me out on that.

MG: What else do you have planned next?
BJ: I do but I have to be loyal to this one. I think this show is going to be awesome this season!

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: adult, brandon, johnson, ntsfsdsuv, swims, talks, ...

CD Review: Order of Nine “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror”

Order of Nine
“Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror”
Nightmare Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Originally formed under the name Templar, the Pennsylvania based band Order of Nine are back with “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror”. The album is the follow up to the bands 2008 release “A Means to Know End” and could be described as 2 parts Type O Negative and 2 parts Dream Theater. Each of the 11 songs contained on the album cover immense ground both musically and lyrically. From virtuous guitar shredding to booming base lines, and haunting vocals that reach down into the very core of one’s soul Order of Nine give their all. The albums opening/title track “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror” sets the tone for the album and lets you know right off the bat just what you are in for. While tracks such as the thickly layered “Dreamspeak” feature elegant piano passages combined with classic guitar shredding. The song “Reign Down” which is featured towards the end of the album was another personal favorite as it had an early Queensryche vibe while still sounding fresh.

Though the band could easily be classified as a progressive metal band their songs don’t follow the often standard 12 minute plus time frame. With most of the albums tracks clocking in at just under 6 mins. Order of Nine does a great job of getting in and out. You won’t have to worry about lengthy solos or overdubbed intros wasting your listening time as “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror” cuts right to the chase. If you are looking for something to bolster the prog-metal section of your music collection pick up a copy of Order of Nines latest album “Seventh Year of the Broke Mirror”.

Track Listing:
1.) Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror
2.) Words that were Said
3.) Dreamspeak
4.) Spiral Staircase
5.) Changing of the Guard
6.) Innocence
7.) Third Wish
8.) Eye of the Enemy
9.) Twelfth Talisman
10.) Reign Down
11.) Winter’s Call

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CD Review: Fozzy “Sin and Bones”

Fozzy
“Sin and Bones”
Century Media Records
Producer: Rich Ward
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Sin and Bones” is the 5th full length release from the heavy metal band Fozzy. Fronted by WWE super star Chris Jericho and backed by Rich Ward, Frank Fontsere, Paul Di Leo and Billy Grey the group has been releasing albums since 1999. “Sin and Bones” continues the Fozzy tradition of no frills in your face American heavy metal. The album is being released via Century Media Records and features 10 blistering tracks produced by Rich Ward.

Being a big wrestling fan growing up I remember when the band first came out and featured Chris Jericho’s alter-ego Moongoose McQueen. The band has come a long way since then proving that they are a legitimate band and not just something created for television. “Sin and Bones” opens up with the eerie “Spider In My Mouth” which sets the stage for songs like the album’s title track “Sin and Bones” and the trudging Ozzy Osbourne esc. “Shine Forever”. The album features some great playing by the band and the overall production/mixing of the album was very clear and crisp.

Over all not a bad album but not a great album either. “Sin and Bones” at times tries to cover too much musical territory causing Jericho’s vocals to sound strained which at various times gave the performance an uncomfortable feel. I think it’s great when a band tries to venture into different styles and ranges however if not done correctly the result can be devastating. “Sin and Bones” isn’t that far off track but just enough to rock the boat.

Track Listing:
1.) Spider In My Mouth
2.) Sandpaper
3.) Blood Happens
4.) Inside my Head
5.) Sin and Bones
6.) A Passed Life
7.) She’s my Addiction
8.) Shine Forever
9.) Dark Passenger
10.) Storm the Beaches

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: bones, cd, fozzy, review, sin

CD Review: Close to Home “Momentum”

Close to Home
“Momentum”
Artery Recordings
Producer: Andrew Wade
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

“Momentum” is the 3rd and latest release from the Cincinnati Ohio based band Close to Home. For those unfamiliar with the post-hardcore group consisting of Josh Wells, Andrew DeNeef, JJ Cooper and Travis Hartman the group has been around since 2005 when it was formed by Josh and Justin Wells. Early on in its career the group was dealt a vicious blow when it lost original bassist Brad Andress to cancer in 2006. The band has since rebounded and their newest album “Momentum” is surely the bands strongest effort to date. The album is being released via Artery Records and features 11 in your face tracks produced by Andrew Wade (A Day to Remember)

Energy and intensity is what you find on the latest Close to Home album “Momentum. From start to finish the band keeps its listeners attention through all 11 tracks. From catchy pop styled choruses to gruff screamo vocals it’s hard not to become wrapped up in this album. Tracks such as “Don’t Waste Your Breath”, “Family Ties” which features guest vocals from We Came As Romans Kyle Pavone and Dave Stephens and “Sleepless in Cincinnati” are beautifully crafted works that showcase each of the member’s talents.

When a band switches lead singers it can go one of two ways. Either it works out great or it totally flops. In the case of Andrew DeNeef taking over for Nick Stein it worked perfectly. The band sounds stronger than ever and should be extremely proud of what they have created as the album lush and full of life. If you are a fan of bands such as A Day to Remember, Of Mice of Men and other groups in the post-hardcore genre you will surely want to check out Close to Home’s and their latest release “Momentum”.

Track Listing:
1.) Make it Count
2.) Don’t Waste Your Breath
3.) Pirates Belong at Sea
4.) Hanging Onto Nothing
5.) Family Ties
6.) Backstabbers Need Not Apply
7.) Sleepless in Cincinnati
8.) Young & Stupid
9.) Fake It Til You Make It
10.) Modern Warfare
11.) Nights like Tonight

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, close, home, momentum, review

CD Review: Blaqk Audio “Bright Black Heaven”

Blaqk Audio
“Bright Black Heaven”
Superball Music
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Bright Black Heaven” is the latest release from synth-pop group Blaqk Audio which consists of AFI lead singer Davey Havok and guitarist Jade Puget. “Bright Black Heaven” is the follow up to the groups 2007 debut release “CexCells”. The album is being released via Superball Music and features 12 new tracks produced by both Havok and Puget.

Release dates for “Bright Black Heaven” have been being announced since 2009 and an after a number of postponements the album is finally being released. Fans of the group’s previous release “CexCells” will surely enjoy the new album as it features a much more polished and mature approach. This could be accredited to it being the group’s second release or the fact that it has been in production for 3 years. Either way I found this release to have improved leaps and bounds from the previous. Song structure seemed to come more in to play making each of the 12 tracks unique and colorful. Tracks such as “Fade to White”, “Everybody’s Friends”, and “Bon Voyeurs” all had some interesting elements of darkness added to them which at key points broke through the synth fueled poppy backing tracks.

Though Blaqk Audio is totally separate from Havok and Puget’s other group it is still hard to see the two in any other light. Even though I think “Bright Black Heaven” is a bit dated in its approach there were still a few AFI nuances hidden within several of the songs which were fun to hear. These little glimpses will surely give AFI’s fan club the Despair Faction hope that new material from the bay area band will eventually come to light. However until that happens, fans will have to adapt to the new sounds created by Davey and Jade.

Track Listing:
1.)    Cold War
2.)    Fade to White
3.)    Faith Healer
4.)    Deconstructing Gods
5.)    Everybody’s Friends
6.)    Let’s Be Honest
7.)    With Your Arms Around You
8.)    Bliss
9.)    Bon Voyeurs
10.) The Witness
11.) Say Red
12.) Ill-Lit Ships

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Blu-ray Review “Starship Troopers: Invasion”

Directed by: Shinji Aramaki
Starring: Leraldo Anzaldua, Luci Christian, Melissa Davis, Justin Doran, David Matranga
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 89 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Starship Troopers: Invasion” is finally a true sequel to “Starship Troopers”. It took them four films to get it right. This is also the first of hopefully many CG-animated within this franchise. The series is way too ambitious to be done live-action without a very large budget and works very well computer-generated. They were also smart to include plenty of boobs, gore and plenty of wits, which is what made this series great. The story takes a little while to get started and it has it problems but this is what this series needed, some mindless kick-ass action. “Invasion” also brings back series favorite characters including Carl Jenkins, Carmen Ibanez and of course Johnny Rico, though they are not reprised by their original cast. Casper Van Dien does serve as an executive producer to the film but that is all. Fans of the series should definitely check out this film and will not be disappointed.

From Sony’s official synopsis: “A distant Federation outpost Fort Casey comes under attack by bugs. The team on the fast attack ship Alesia is assigned to help the Starship John A. Warden stationed in Fort Casey evacuate along with the survivors and bring military intelligence safely back to Earth. Carl Jenkins, now ministry of Paranormal Warfare, takes the starship on a clandestine mission before its rendezvous with the Alesia and goes missing in the nebula. Now, the battle-hardened troopers are charged with a rescue mission that may lead to a much more sinister consequence than they ever could have imagined.”

Sony’s Blu-ray release looks fantastic with the CG-animation in its 1080p transfer within its 1.78:1 aspect ratio. I meanm the film was made with computer, so I always feel that CGI films should look the best on Blu-ray. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is extremely explosive and sounds fantastic through the film’s many action sequences. The special features are also very impressive as well. There is an audio commentary track from director Shinji Aramaki. But the real star of the disc is a massive in-depth “The Making of Starship Troopers: Invasion” series of featurettes. The feature is broken up into numerous aspects of the film’s production including Character Design, Motion Capture, Powersuits, Bugs, Ships, Animation, Backgrounds, Compositing, Music and lastly a Gag reel. I really though these were very informative especially the featurette on the motion capture. Lastly there is a Blu-ray exclusive extra for the conceptual art gallery.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, invasion, review, starship, troopers

Blu-ray Review “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax”

Directed by: Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda
Starring: Danny DeVito, Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Ed Helms, Rob Riggle, Betty White, Jenny Slate
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
Release Date: August 7, 2012
MPAA Rating: PG
Running Time: 87 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Seuss has had a bumpy road on the big screen over the years. I really enjoyed “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with Jim Carrey. Though Mike Myers’ turn as “The Cat in the Hat” was barely watchable. Similar to this film, “Horton Hears a Who” was full CGI and was decent but nothing special. “The Lorax” on the other hand is very enjoyable and perfect for kids to enjoy. I originally screened the film in theaters in 3D and I really did enjoy that experience, though watching it on 2D on Blu-ray was still a decent. I thought that this film looks “pretty” in theaters but damn…does it look even better on Blu-ray.

The voice cast is also very impressive. Danny DeVito seems absolutely perfect for the role of The Lorax and easily nails it. Zac Efron and Taylor Swift will both be a big draw to the film with the tweens. Ed Helms is basically the main character besides The Lorax or at least for the first half and he is fun but also easily unlikable. Rob Riggle plays a great baddie and get a lot of laughs.

The 1080p transfer really shines well and I don’t know how but looks so much better than my theatrical experience. Universal delivers a near-perfect video presentation within its original aspect ratio of 1:85.1. The colors were extremely sharp and just overall very pleasant to look at. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is also very impressive with the score and just overall fun. Easily one of the best audio tracks, I have experiences this entire year! This release also comes in a Blu-ray combo pack covering all plays you can watch this film. It comes with a Blu-ray disc, a DVD disc, a digital copy disc and also an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. Can’t ask for me in that department.

The special features are impressive as well like the film. The directors, Chris Renaud and Kyle Balda deliver one-hell of an extensive audio commentary, definitely won’t keep kids interest though and definitely for the adults. There are three new mini-movies, including “Wagon Ho!”, “Forces of Nature” and “Serenade”. “Making of Mini-Movies” looks behind the scenes on these three shorts. There is one short single extended scene, nothing special here. “O-Hare TV” is the ability to watch “The Lorax” with commercial interruptions advertising O’Hare products. I think this is really cute and fun feature. “Expedition of Truffula Valley” is an interactive tour of Thneedville and the Valley. “Seuss to Screen” is a very short, actually too short look at adapting “The Lorax” from the book to the big screen. There are three kids games called “Once-ler’s Wagon,” “Get Out of Town” and “Truffula Run.” They are all very cute. Lastly there is a sing-along for the song “Let it Grow”.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, dr, lorax, review, seuss

DVD Review “The Heathcliff and Dingbat Show”

Starring: Mel Blanc, Frank Welker
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
13 Episodes
Running Time: 312 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I grew up watching “Heathcliff”. The first season of the show back in 1980 was called “Heathcliff and Dingbat”, which ran for 13 episodes. It was really run revisiting the show, which is still sharp and funny. Plus, who doesn’t love to listen to Mel Blanc, the man of 1,000 voices, do what he does best and given Heathcliff his trademark laugh. Warner Archive is behind this great DVD release. Once again they have delivered a great classic 80’s cartoon to DVD for the first time ever! I hold this series very close since I grew up on it. I am more excited to now be able to share my childhood series with my own daughter now.

For a show that is over 30 years old, it still looks sharp. The colors aren’t as crisp as they could be sure this isn’t a HD Blu-ray release, so for what it is worth it looks great. The show is presented in 4X3 full frame within its originial aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio included on this release is an Dolby Mono track. After watching 13 episodes, I was craving for more. I hope that Warner Archive is considering to release the following seasons of this show as well, like “Heathcliff and Marmaduke”. This is a must for all fans of classic animation or Saturday morning cartoons.

Premise: The sassiest, frassiest, classiest cat, Heathcliff, jumps from the comic strip to the TV screen in the first of his animated adaptations and is joined by the silliest trio of monsters ever seen, the aptly named Dingbat and the Creeps. The feline half of the show is pure classic Heathcliff high jinks, with the highfalutin’ low-livin’ tomcat living the life while romancing Sonja, avoiding the dog-catcher and tormenting Spike. And as an added soupcon of catnip, Heathcliff is voiced by the legendary man of 1,000 voices, Mel Blanc! Meanwhile, a dog heads up the second half, but this is no common canine. Dingbat is a vampire dog, who with fellow Creeps the fat skeleton Sparerib and teamleader Nobody, a talking jack-o-lantern, makes up the strangest service biz ever seen, Odd Jobs, Inc. So grab a seat and get ready for the funniest antics this side of alleyway and graveyard in this complete 2-Disc, 13-Episode collection.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: dingbat, dvd, heathcliff, review, show

“Disneynature’s Chimpanzee” Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack Giveaway [ENDED]

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EACH WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

New On Disney Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, Available on August 21^st!

To celebrate the Blu-Ray™ release of “Disneynature’s Chimpanzee”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 10 copies of the 2-Disc Combo Pack (Blu-ray™ + DVD). If you would like to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite Disneynature film. This giveaway will be open until September 4th at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States. Only one entry per person, per household; all other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

Film Synopsis: From Disneynature, the studio that brought you “Earth,” “Oceans,” and “African Cats,” comes “Chimpanzee” — a remarkable story of individual triumph and family bonds. Journey deep into the African forest and meet Oscar, an adorable young chimp with an entertaining approach to life. The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimps who love creating mayhem. His playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Stunning hi-definition images bring you up close and personal as Oscar and his family navigate the complex territory of the forest. It’s an inspiring and life-changing adventure that overflows with courage and charm. And it will capture your heart.

Bonus Features:
DVD:

“See ‘Chimpanzee,’ Save Chimpanzees”—This feature details the “See ‘Chimpanzee,’ Save Chimpanzees” conservation program and how for every copy of the film purchased until August 27, 2012, Disneynature will make a donation to JGI to protect chimpanzees today and tomorrow. The feature also includes an interview with Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace.
Disney’s Friends for Change—This feature highlights Disney’s Friends for Change, a program that showcases steps that kids and families can take to make a positive impact on the world and the people and animals that live there.
Disney’s Conservation Legacy—This feature provides a look at the conservation efforts that Disney sponsors around the world.

BLU-RAY:
Everything on the DVD, plus …

ON LOCATION: THE MAKING OF “CHIMPANZEE” is a series of exciting short features that delve further into the incredible lengths the filmmakers went to tell the story of Oscar and his chimpanzee family.
30 Years in the Making—The story of the team of researchers who have been observing chimpanzees in the Ivory Coast for 30 years.
The Heart of the “Chimpanzee”—A behind-the-scenes look at how and why the film was made.
Piece of the Puzzle—A cameraman’s two-hour daily trek through the forest to get to the chimpanzees.
Don’t Blame the Tool—An observation of the chimpanzees’ daily lives and how they use rocks as tools to prepare their food.
Scar’s Army—An inside look at the struggles between the film’s two rival chimpanzee groups who share the same forest home.
Camp Invaders—A featurette on all the creepy, crawly creatures found at the filmmakers’ forest camp.
Forest of Bees—A feature detailing how the crew spent two days wading through a sea of bees that inhabited their filming location in order to capture 20 seconds of footage.
• “Rise” Music Video—A music video featuring Hollywood Records recording artists McClain Sisters who wrote and performed the inspirational song that plays during the film’s end credits.
Behind the Scenes of “Rise”—An inside look at McClain Sisters music video shoot.

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Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: bluraydvd, chimpanzee, combo, disneynatures, giveaway, pack, ...

“Revenge: The Complete First Season” DVD Giveaway [ENDED]

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EACH WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

Available on DVD August 21^st!

To celebrate the release of “Revenge: The Complete First Season”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 10 copies of this season on DVD. If you would like to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite “Revenge” character. This giveaway will be open until September 4th at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States. Only one entry per person, per household; all other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

Premise: Almost twenty years ago, Hamptons’ wealthiest elite destroyed a young girl’s life. Relive Emily Thorne’s (Emily VanCamp) quest for revenge and uncover every deep, dark secret. The complete first season includes exclusive bonus features including an in-world sitdown interview with the infamous Nolan Ross in “Nolan Ross: Exposed,” “Lifestyles of the Rich and Dangerous”; “Hamptons Bound: Preparing for Life at the Shore”; “Haute Hamptons: Femme Fatale Fashion”; bloopers; deleted scenes and insightful episode commentaries.

Bonus Features:

Nolan Ross Exposed (in-world feature) – What the audience think they know about Nolan Ross (Gabriel Mann) is only part of the story. In the recently unearthed sit-down interview footage, reporter Sarah Juarez (Stephanie Maura Sanchez) questions Nolan on his past… and gets some answers fans might not expect!
Roadmap To Revenge – Revenge is sweet, and set within the rich, beautiful, and elite world of The Hamptons, it’s even sweeter. Emily VanCamp narrates some of the checkpoints on the road to revenge, walking fans through the genesis, pilot, themes, and characters of the show. Woven throughout, are interviews from writers, producers and cast members who share how they undertook creating a world where money and desire can make anything possible.
At Home In “The Hamptons” – Swank parties and lavish houses are as much a part of “Revenge” as the characters that attend and inhabit them. Viewers can watch as Ashley Madekwe plays tour guide to the not-so-humble abodes – including the plush extravagance of the Grayson’s estate as well as the contrasting rustic ambiance of the Stowaway bar, illustrating everything that goes into making things larger-than-life.
Haute Hamptons: Femme Fatale Fashion – They say ‘clothes make the woman’, … and this exciting bonus feature gives a glimpse into the secrets of styling the show’s two leading ladies, Emily VanCamp and Madeleine Stowe. Costume Designer Jill Ohanneson shares key pieces from both of the series’ femme fatale’s closets as she and the cast discuss what it takes to dress a show for success.
Deleted Scenes – Fans can turn up the heat with six revealing deleted scenes
Bloopers/Outtakes – Hilarious moments from the production fans won’t want to miss
Pilot Commentary – Creator Mike Kelley and Actress Emily VanCamp take viewers through all the details of the pilot episode.
Music Videos – Key music from the show is featured, including Christina Perri’s “Distance” and Angus & Julia Stone’s “For You.”

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Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: complete, dvd, giveaway, revenge, season

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