“The Vampire Diaries” Official Convention Comes to Orlando for the First Time December 8 and 9th

Creation Entertainment’s The Vampire Diaries Official Convention will come to Orlando December 8 -9 at The Hilton Walt Disney World Resort, 1751 Hotel Plaza Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, 32830.

The romantic and suspenseful storylines of The CW’s mega-hit series The Vampire Diaries (Thursdays 8/7c), from Warner Bros. Television, have introduced television viewers to fantastic breakout stars who have seductively attracted a worldwide following of passionate fans. This weekend event is dedicated to putting fans in the middle of all The Vampire Diaries action.

Throughout the weekend, on stage celebrity guests from The Vampire Diaries will include:  on Saturday, Michael Trevino (Tyler Lockwood), Steven R. McQueen (Jeremy Gilbert), Todd Williams (Connor Jordan) and Nathaniel Buzolic (Kol); on Sunday, Ian Somerhalder (Damon Salvatore), Paul Wesley (Stefan Salvatore), Torrey DeVitto (Dr. Meredith Fell) and Robert Ri’chard (Jamie).

Hosting this weekend’s show will be Hannah and Hilly Hindi and guests from the The Hillywood Show, a YouTube hit who are known for their hilarious spoofs from various movies.  They will also be performing skits, posing for photos and adding to the weekend of fun!

The fun will be kicked up a notch with the Saturday Night The Vampire Diaries Decade Dance, Cocktail Party and Centerpiece Contest where attendee can have a night of fun featuring music, dancing, contest and celebrities. A separate ticket is required for this event.

In addition to celebrity appearances, the non-stop auditorium show will include costume and trivia contests, no minimum bid auctions of unique collectibles and one-of-a-kind items, and previews of upcoming sci-fi television shows and motion pictures.

Limited tickets are available in advance or at the door starting at $25 on Saturday and $45 on Sunday.  Tickets for the Saturday Night Cocktail Party are $79.  Show hours are Saturday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM and Sunday, 9:45 AM – 7:00 PM.

For further information, call Creation Entertainment,

818/409-0960, or visit our website at www.TheVampireDiariesConvention.com

About THE VAMPIRE DIARIES Television Series

Now in its third season, THE VAMPIRE DIARIES is the story of two vampire brothers obsessed with the same beautiful girl, who are battling to control the fate of an entire town. Based on the best-selling book series by L.J. Smith, THE VAMPIRE DIARIES stars Nina Dobrev (upcoming The Killing Game), Paul Wesley (Fallen), Ian Somerhalder (Lost), Steven R. McQueen (Everwood), Kat Graham (Honey 2), Candice Accola (Juno), Zach Roerig (Friday Night Lights), Michael Trevino (Cane), Matt Davis (Blue Crush) and Joseph Morgan (Ben Hur). Produced by Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, the series was developed by Kevin Williamson (the Scream films, Dawson’s Creek) and Julie Plec (Kyle XY), who serve as executive producers along with Leslie Morgenstein (Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars) and Bob Levy (Gossip Girl).
About Warner Bros. Consumer Products

Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.
About Creation Entertainment, Inc.

Creation Entertainment produces events and merchandise for fans of genre films and television.  Founded in 1971 the company has promoted over 2,000 conventions for fans of popular properties including Twilight, The Lord of the Rings, Star Trek, Star Wars, The X-Files, and Stargate.

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

 

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Complimentary Passes to the Orlando, FL Advance Screening for “This Is 40” [ENDED]

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

If you would like to enter for a chance to win tickets to the following advance screening, please leave a comment below with your favorite Judd Apatow film. Winners will be chosen on a RANDOM BASIS on December 14th. ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON PLEASE! OTHERWISE ALL ENTRIES WILL BE DISREGARDED. The winners will be will notified then via email and will be instructed how to pick up the tickets. Good luck and hope to see if you at the screening!

Monday, December 17th at 7:00pm.
AMC Altamonte 18 – Altamonte Springs, FL
Passes are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Official Site: www.Thisis40movie.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thisis40
YouTube: www.youtube.com/thisis40film

Twitter Hashtag: #ThisIs40

Genre:  Comedy
Cast: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Megan Fox, John Lithgow, Iris Apatow, Maude Apatow, Melissa McCarthy, Robert Smigel, Charlene Yi and Albert Brooks
Written and Directed by: Judd Apatow
Produced by:  Judd Apatow, Clayton Townsend, Barry Mendel

Writer/director/producer Judd Apatow (The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Funny People) brings audiences This Is 40, an original comedy that expands upon the story of Pete (Paul Rudd) and Debbie (Leslie Mann) from the blockbuster hit Knocked Up as we see first-hand how they are dealing with their current state of life.

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Blu-ray Review “Eastbound & Down: The Complete Third Season”

Actors: Danny McBride, Steve Little, John Hawkes, Jennifer Irwin, Jason Sudeikis
Studio: HBO Studios
Rating: TV-MA
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 311 min

Series: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

After season two of “Eastbound & Down”, I thought this took a downfall. But the third season is a nice bounce back for the show, it is not as good as the first but definitely gets the bases loaded. Jason Sudeikis joins the cast this as Kenny’s new best friend and kindred spirit Shane. The series is very unique and nice blend of comedy and also drama. It is executive produced by Will Ferrell, Chris Henchy, Adam McKay, Jody Hill and Danny McBride. The new direction for this season definitely paid off, since HBO picked up the comedy series for a fourth season, which will consist of another eight episodes. So we haven’t seen the last of Kenny “Fucking” Powers. I also suggest HBO to take this story to the big screen!

Season Official Premise: Powers, whose boorish behavior and fading fastball led to a spectacular career flame-out now finds himself back on the mound in the USA. Picking up a year after season two, the third season finds Kenny in action on the “Redneck Riviera” (aka Myrtle Beach, SC), somehow resurrecting his baseball career by becoming the closer for the minor-league Myrtle Beach Mermen. Even as he tries to pass himself off as the “King of Myrtle Beach,” Kenny struggles to come to terms with growing older and accepting the responsibilities of being a new father.

“Eastbound & Down: The Complete Third Season” is presented very well on Blu-ray. Each episode is delivered in a sharp 1080p and in its original aspect ratio: 1.78:1. The audio includes a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 trakc, which works well with the music and the dialogue. The star of the special features are eight audio commentaries  from all the comedy talent including Danny McBride, Jody Hill, Steve Little, David Gordon Green, Katy Mison, Craig Robinson and more. They are all worth checking out and a great way to revisit the episodes.  There are also  some decent deleted scenes, including an exclusive “Dinner with the Schaeffer’s” and also a very funny blooper reel  included.

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Blu-ray Review “Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn”

Actors: Tom Green, Daniel Cudmore, Irone Singleton, Anna Popplewell
Directors: Stewart Hendler
Studio: Microsoft Films / Anderson Merchandise
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t want a live-action movie for “Halo”? I think it is every fans dream. Though if you are looking for the action-packed FPS web series for “Halo”, you might be a little disappointed with “Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn”. But it does tell a great story and sets the stage well for “Halo 4”. Remember it is a web series, not a $100 million feature. It is on a small scale but really makes the most of that scale and still aims to deliver the world of “Halo” quite well. Of course Halo’s Master Chief shows up and is played by Daniel Cudmore (Colossus, X2: X-Men United) and voiced by Steve Downes, of course. Anna Popplewell also has a nice role from “The Chronicles of Narnia” series. The series premiered on Halo Waypoint and Machinima.com this past October and was split into five-parts. If you enjoyed the series, then the Blu-ray is definitely worth the purchase just for HD presentation and, most importantly, the extras.

Official Premise: Set against the backdrop of a United Nations Space Command (UNSC) military academy, a group of cadets are training to be the next generation of leaders in the UNSC’s ongoing war with insurrectionists in the outer colonial planets. Among these cadets, Thomas Lasky struggles with his doubts about this war and with the burden of expectations he may not be able to carry. As Lasky comes to terms with his potential as a military leader, the terrifying alien alliance known as the Covenant arrives and threatens to destroy everything he knows. When Lasky is rescued by the Master Chief, he must decide what it means to be a hero. “Halo” fans who experience Lasky’s thrilling origin story in “Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn” will be rewarded with special insights into the story of “Halo 4” and the “Halo Infinity Multiplayer” experience.

The Blu-ray presentation is really great. Fans will be able to enjoy the entire film uninterrupted in all its 1080p glory. There is also a sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for the action. Watch out for those whizzing gun shots! The Blu-ray also comes with over an hour of special features, including exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes. I really enjoyed both audio commentary tracks as well. The first is from the director Stewart Hendler and the second was by 343 Industries. Both are highly recommend, though the second I hold a bit higher. These are a must for any “Halo” fan. Also there are deleted scenes, storyboards and concept art included. All this will satisfy any fan of the series for sure! Lastly, keep an eye out for many Easter Eggs included throughout!

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3D Blu-ray Review “Finding Nemo”

Actors: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould, Willem Dafoe, Brad Garrett
Directors: Andrew Stanton
Number of discs: 5
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Disney-Pixar
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 100 minutes

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

“Finding Nemo” is one of Pixar’s best films to date and seems to only gets better with age…and the added dimension. It is hard to imagine that this film came out almost 10 years ago now. With a child of my own now (6 months old), I just can’t wait to share this film with her. As with past Disney 3D re-releases like “The Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast”, “Finding Nemo” is the latest convert.  It looks great in the theaters but I honestly think it is better on its Blu-ray release. There are a few stand out scenes like the first encounter with Bruce the Shark. I seriously got goose bumps, when this scene came on the screen. The Deep Sea Angler scene was also very impressive as well, including a few great jumps from the audience. The overall depth of the presentation looks very impressive overall. “Monsters Inc.” is next for Pixar and then after that we have traditional animated “The Little Mermaid” getting pushed into the third dimension.  I can’t wait and will be counting down the days.

Official Premise: Sea it like never before! For the first time ever, through the magic of Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D, fully immerse yourself in the stunning underwater world of Disney/Pixar’s “Finding Nemo”! From the creators of “Toy Story” and “Monsters Inc.”, this critically acclaimed and heartwarming tale splashes off the screen with brilliant digital picture, high definition sound and breathtaking interactive 3D bonus features that transport you beyond your imagination. In the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, Marlin (Albert Brooks), an overly protective clownfish, embarks on a daring rescue mission when his beloved son, Nemo, gets scooped up by a diver. With his unforgettable friend Dory (Ellen DeGeneres) by his side, Marlin encounters an ocean full of memorable comedic characters on his momentous journey to find Nemo. Bring home the humor and heartfelt emotion of the epic adventure that captured the Academy Award for “Best Animated Feature Film” (2003) — now more awesome than ever on Disney Blu-ray 3D! It’s Magic In A New Dimension!

This Ultimate Collector’s Edition is presented as a five-disc combo with a Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD / Digital Copy.  This is the first time that the film has ever been released on high-definition Blu-ray and boy, does it look absolutely perfect throughout its 1080p transfer.  The vast ocean world that we live in throughout this film literally looks stunning. The 3D MVC-encoded transfer adds the perfect amount of depth to the water and like I mentioned the key scenes mentioned above. To go along with the perfect video presentation, Disney has delivered an even better (if that is possible) Dolby TrueHD 7.1 surround sound track. It works so well with Thomas Newman’s score and every wave and bump in the water throughout. There is also a Dolby Digital 5.1 EX track included, which sounds equally good for those who don’t have 5.1 support.

The special features are perfect and even take a step up from the also newly released “Up” 3D Blu-ray. The “Cine-Explore” Picture-in- Picture commentary is really one of my new favorite features from Disney. It features Director Andrew Stanton, co-director Lee Unkrich and co-writer Bob Peterson as they breakdown every aspect of the film.  “Finding Nemo: A Filmmakers’ Roundtable” is a new exclusive roundtable, which reunites Stanton, Unkrich, Peterson, producer Graham Walters, production designer Ralph Eggleston and technical lead Oren Jacob to celebrate the film’s upcoming 10th anniversary. “Reinventing the Submarine Voyage” looks into the attraction in Disneyland’s Tomorrowland. “A Lesson in Flashbacks” shows Stanton as he discusses the development of Nemo’s story. There is an alternate opening scene presented in through concept art. “Knick Knack” is a 1989 short that debuted in front of the film in its 2003 theatrical release. Lastly there are trailers and sneak peeks for “Monsters University”, “Monsters, Inc. 3D”, “Peter Pan: Diamond Edition” and “Planes”.

The rest of the special features are on Disc 3, also most in standard definition.  “Art Review” features an insight look from Production designer Ralph Eggleston, character art director Ricky Nierva and shading art director Robin Cooper. “Making Nemo” is a nearly 30 minutes behind-the-scenes documentary covering the production. “Exploring the Reef” is an short look at the world’s endangered coral reefs with Jean-Michel Cousteau. “Studio Tour” is a tour of Pixar Studios and its departments with Alexander Gould. “Old School” is short collection of various featurettes. There are seven short deleted scenes presented in storyboards format. There is three very funny outtakes. There are a bunch of publicity pieces including four trailers. “Mr. Ray’s Encyclopedia” is an interactive video look into the real undersea creatures. Lastly “Aquariums” is a collection of ocean floor screensavers, cool but too bad they are not in HD.

 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3d, bluray, finding, nemo, review

3D Blu-ray Review “Up”

Actors: Ed Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai, Bob Peterson, Delroy Lindo
Directors: Pete Docter, Bob Peterson
Number of discs: 5
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Disney-Pixar
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 96 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4.5 out of stars

I recently when through my 3D Blu-ray’s and I realized that “Up” was not among those.  “Up” was released in theaters in 3D back in 2009 and since then has never again been presented in that format.  I thought that it was a real shame since since this film delivered a really fantastic 3D experience. The 3D works so well with the depth and colors in the film.  It really pops out so well and leaves you trying not to blink to miss anything. The film is just so heartwarming and packs such a sweet and unique story.  “Up” stands today as one of my favorite Pixar films to date.  Luckily, Disney has delivered a fantastic 3D Blu-ray to give this film the respect it deserves.  With the film being released a few weeks prior to Christmas, it will make a nice Christmas gift both young and old.

Official Premise:  The 3D experience comes home with Disney·Pixar’s “Up,” the uplifting tale from the creators of “Monsters, Inc.” and “Finding Nemo.”  In 2009, “Up” was awarded two Academy Awards® for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score. “Up” follows 78-year-old balloon salesman Carl Fredricksen, who finally fulfills his lifelong dream of a great adventure when he ties thousands of balloons to his house and flies away to the wilds of South America. But he discovers all too late that his biggest nightmare has stowed away on the trip: an overly optimistic 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer named Russell. Their journey to a lost world, where they encounter some strange, exotic and surprising characters, is filled with hilarity, emotion and wildly imaginative adventure.

This release is presented as a five-disc combo with a Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD / Digital Copy.  “Up” looks absolutely perfect throughout its 1080p transfer.  It is a real step up from the last time I saw this film on Disney Channel.   The scenery in the film looks so real that you can almost reach out and grab.  The 3D MVC-encoded completely immerses you into the world that Pixar has created and literally takes you up and out along with Carl’s house and his adventures. To go along with the perfect video presentation, Disney has delivered a likewise perfect DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. It works so well with Michael Giacchino’s beautiful score and the film’s action.

The special features are split over two Blu-rays.  Disc 2 includes a Cine-Explore commentary with Director Pete Docter and co-director Bob Peterson.  This is very informative and interesting Picture-in-Picture video commentary.  Fans of this film will enjoy to get immersed in this track. “Adventure Is Out There” follows Doctor and cast/crew with more production details and development of the story. “Partly Cloudy” is the wonderful animated short that premiered in front of the theatrical release. “Dug’s Special Mission” is an all new animated short with the film’s lovable and loyal dog. “The Many Endings of Muntz” is an alternate scene focusing on planning the for the film’s antagonist.

Disc 3 starts with a collection of seven fantastic production featurettes. The first is “Geriatric Hero”, which  focuses creating the character of Carl. “Canine Companions” looks into Muntz’ pack of dogs. “Wilderness Explorer” dives into the character of Russell. “Our Giant Flightless Friend” looks at how Kevin was created. “Homemakers of Pixar” looks at one of the film’s other main character, Carl’s house. “Balloons and Flight” looks into Carl’s houses wings and Muntz’ zeppelin. “Composing for Characters” is a nice chat with Michael Giacchino. These seven extras run just over 45 minutes. Next up is “Married Life” is is a collection of alternate scenes focusing on Carl and Ellie, one of my favorites. “Global Guardian Badge Game” is an interactive BD-Live kids game. Lastly there is a collection of “Up” promotional spots and worldwide trailers.

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

2012 Holiday Movie Preview

Now that the turkey has been put away and the last piece of pie has been eaten it’s time to turn our attention to the upcoming Holiday Movie Season.  In the next five weeks the best (and sometimes the worse) of Hollywood will be coming to a theatre near you.  With early shots like “Argo,” “Lincoln” and “Skyfall” opening earlier this month, not to mention this summer’s “The Dark Knight Rises,” the race to the Oscars has begun in earnest.  Here is a list of films opening between now and the end of the year.  Some synopsis information courtesy of our friends at the Internet Movie Database.  As always, dates shown are subject to change at the whim of the studio.

 

NOVEMBER 30

 

CALIFORNIA SOLO

Starring:  Robert Carlye,  Kathleen Wilhoite and Savannah Lathem.

Directed by:  Marshall Lewy

A former British rock star, now living in the states, is arrested for drunk driving and faces deportation.  Writer/director Lewy also wrote/helmed the entertaining “Blue State.”

OSCAR CHANCES:  No

 

THE COLLECTION

Starring:  Christopher McDonald, Randall Archer and Emma Fitzpatrick

Directed by:  Marcus Dunstan

After escaping from the grips of a serial killer known as “The Collector,” a father is forced to attempt to rescue his daughter from the Collector’s warehouse.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Won’t scare up any.

 

DRAGON

Starring:  Kara Hui, Wu Jiang and Takeshi Kanashiro

Directed by:  Peter Chan

Hoping to retire to a quiet and more peaceful life a former martial arts master finds himself pursued by his former master and a skilled detective.  After premiering at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival “Dragon” finally makes it to theatres.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Unless it’s another “Departed” I’m going to say “no.”

 

KILLING THEM SOFTLY

Starring:  Brad Pitt, Ray Liotta and James Gandolfini

Directed by:  Andrew Dominik

A professional “enforcer” is called in to investigate a heist that went down during a mob-protected poker game.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Gandolfini chewing the scenery should be epic.

 

UNIVERSAL SOLDIER:  DAY OF RECKONING

Starring:  Jean Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren and Scott

Directed by:   John Hyams

After a home invasion claims his wife and daughter a man vows to take down Luc Deveraux (JCVD, baby!). If the WGA is to be believed it took no less than EIGHT people to write this thing.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Only if they give an award for most writers on a film heading straight to video by Valentine’s Day.

 

DECEMBER 7

DEADFALL

Starring:  Eric Bana and Olivia Wilde

Directed by:  Stefan Ruzowitzky

After a disastrous attempt to rob a casino a man and his sister accidentally end up at the same Thanksgiving celebration.  Nothing says “family” like Turkey and larceny.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Bana has a better chance playing the Hulk again.

 

THE FITZGERALD FAMILY CHRISTMAS

Starring:  Ed Lauter and Edward Burns

Directed by:  Edward Burns

If there’s an Irish surname in the title (“The Brothers McMullen,” “The Fighting Fitzgeralds”) you can bet it’s an Ed Burns film!  This one features Lauter as a father having Thanksgiving Dinner with his family 20 years after he walked out on them.  I sense a “Thanksgiving” theme coming on Pearl Harbor Day.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Actually Burns is a pretty good storyteller so….maybe?

 

HYDE PARK ON HUDSON

Starring:  Bill Murray and Laura Linney

Directed by:  Roger Michell

Remember the look on Bill Murray’s face when Sean Penn won the Oscar over him?  If early word is to be believed he may have a second chance this year with his portrayal of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  Here, FDR hosts the King and Queen of England with the help of his distant cousin (and lover) Margaret Suckley.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Come on Billy Boy!

 

LAY THE FAVORITE

Starring:  Bruce Willis and Rebecca Hall

Directed by:  Stephen Frears

A sports gambler falls for a casino waitress who also has a way with laying a bet or two.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Frears has been nominated twice for Best Director but not sure if this is going to make three.

 

PLAYING FOR KEEPS

Starring:  Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel and Dennis Quaid

Directed by:  Gabrielle Muccino

A down on his luck former soccer player starts coaching his son’s team and meets attractive single moms, which I’m sure just makes him sexier in his ex-wife’s eyes.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Best Abs?

 

DECEMBER 14

 

THE HOBBIT:  AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY

Starring:  Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage and Ian McKellen

Directed by:  Peter Jackson

Bilbo Baggins journeys to the Lonely Mountain accompanied by a group of Dwarves to reclaim a treasure stolen from them by the dragon Smaug.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy earned 30 Oscar nominations and took home 17 awards.  I don’t see the well running dry any time soon.

 

STAND UP GUYS

Starring:  Christopher Walken and Al Pacino

Directed by:  Fisher Stevens

An impressionist’s dream as two of the most imitated actors EVER team up as a couple of old gangsters who decide to “get the band back together.”  Directed by the scientist who created Johnny 5 in “Short Circuit.”

OSCAR CHANCES:  Probably not but watching Walken and Pacino on screen together is award enough!

 

DECEMBER 19

 

MONSTERS INC. 3D

Starring the voices of:  Billy Crystal and John Goodman

Directed by:  Pete Docter, David Silverman and Lee Unkrich

Mike, Sully and little Boo return in the 2001 PIXAR classic with the added touch of the third dimension.

OSCAR CHANCES:  The film was nominated for four Academy Awards and won the Oscar for Best Original Song.  For you trivia buffs, it lost the Best Animated Feature award to “Shrek.”

 

ZERO DARK THIRTY

Starring:  Jessica Chastain and Chris Pratt

Directed by:  Kathryn Bigelow

Isn’t life funny?  You’re all set to make a film detailing the decade long search for Osama bin Laden when a team of Navy Seals raid his compound and pop a new asshole in his forehead.  Rewrite!  Bigelow and writer Mark Boal, who both won Oscars for “The Hurt Locker,” reunite for what is sure to be one of the most controversial films of the season.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Depending on the political climate in Hollywood, either a bunch or nothing.

 

DECEMBER 21

 

THE IMPOSSIBLE

Starring:  Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor

Directed by:  Juan Antonio Bayona

After being swept up in a terrible tsunami a family of five find themselves separated.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Friends who have seen it tell me the performances are wrenching.  Perhaps a nod for Watts?

 

JACK REACHER

Starring:  Tom Cruise and Rosamund Pike

Directed by:  Christopher McQuarrie

Based on Lee Child’s best-selling novel series, homicide investigator goes on a hunt for a sniper who has shot five seemingly random victims.  Writer/director McQuarrie won an Oscar for his screenplay for “The Usual Suspects.”  He also wrote “Valkrie” for Cruise and is the star’s choice to write and direct “Mission: Impossible 5.”

OSCAR CHANCES:   In real life Cruise is ten inches shorter than the title character…maybe best visual effects?

 

NOT FADE AWAY

Starring:  James Gandolfini and Christopher McDonald

Directed by:  David Chase

A group of New Jersey friends in the 60s form a band and aspire for the big time!  This is the feature film debut of “The Sopranos” creator Chase.

OSCAR CHANCES:  The 2nd time I’ve mentioned Gandolfini….could be an omen!

 

ON THE ROAD

Starring:  Sam Riley, Garrett Hedlund and Kristen Stewart

Directed by:  Walter Salles

Three friends travel across the country in a 1949 Hudson.  Based on Jack Kerouac’s classic novel, which despite being over five decades old, has never been adapted for a film.

OSCAR CHANCES:  When your source material is one of the greatest novels of the 20th Century an adapted screenplay nomination isn’t out of the question.

 

THIS IS 40

Starring:  Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann

Directed by:  Judd Apatow

If you really liked “Knocked Up” and left the theatre wondering what happened to the married couple with the cute kids you’re in luck!  This movie is all about them.  Nobody does funny/raunchy/sweet better than Judd Apatow.

OSCAR CHANCES:  The last comedy to win an Oscar for Best Picture was “Annie Hall.”  IN 1978!!

 

DECEMBER 25

 
DJANGO UNCHAINED

Starring:  Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz and Samuel L. Jackson

Directed by:  Quentin Tarantino

Can it really be just 20 years since QT burst onto the scene with “Reservoir Dogs?”  Yes it can.  For his seventh feature (I count “Kill Bill Volumes 1 and 2” as one film) Tarantino tells the story of a former slave turned bounty hunter who is searching for his wife, still being held in captivity by an evil master.

OSCAR CHANCES:  NEVER bet against the former Video Archives clerk!

 

LES MISERABLES

Starring:  Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe and Anne Hathaway

Directed by:  Tom Hooper

March 1987.  I’m walking through Times Square at about midnight when I find myself face to face with Colm Wilkinson and Terrence Mann (the actor, not the character played by James Earl Jones in “Field of Dreams”) who were both starring in the new musical “Les Miserables.”  “Someday,” I told them, they’re going to make a movie out of that show you’re in!”  OK, the second part I made up.  One of the greatest musicals of all time finally makes it to the big screen.

OSCAR CHANCES:  If Jackman can pull of “Bring Him Home” then a noms in the bag.  Hathaway already seems like a lock.  Hooper took home the directing Oscar for “The King’s Speech.”

 

PARENTAL GUIDANCE

Starring:  Billy Crystal and Bette Midler

Directed by:  Andy Fickman

Old school grandparents  clash with their grandchildren when they are asked to watch them by their daughter.

OSCAR CHANCES:  If Bette ain’t singing it ain’t happening!

 

WEST OF MEMPHIS

Documentary

Directed by:  Amy Berg

In 1993 three young boys were brutally murdered.  Three teenagers were tried for the crimes and sent to prison.  But the evidence never added up.  Peter Jackson produced this story of the West Memphis Three, who were finally released from prison last year.  If you’ve seen the HBO “Paradise Lost” trilogy then you’re familiar with the story.

OSCAR CHANCES:  With the celebrity clout of such stars like Johnny Depp in their corner should be a lock for a Best Documentary Feature nod.

 

DECEMBER 28

 

PROMISED LAND

Starring:  Matt Damon and John Krasinski

Directed by:  Gus Van Sant

In this topical drama, a natural-gas company big shot takes on an environmentalist to debate the issue of fracking.  Damon and Krasinski wrote the script.

OSCAR CHANCES:   The last time Damon shared a screenwriting credit it was on a little movie called “Good Wil Hunting,” which earned him and Ben Affleck an Oscar.

 

QUARTET

Starring:  Maggie Smith and Michael Gambon

Directed by:  Dustin Hoffman

Forty-five years after “The Graduate,” Dustin Hoffman makes his directing debut with a film based on the acclaimed play by Ronald Harwood.  At a home for retired opera singers, the annual concert to celebrate Verdi’s birthday is disrupted by the arrival of an eternal diva…the former wife of one of the residents.

OSCAR CHANCES:  Possibly.  This is the kind of movie the old guard at the Academy loves!

 

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: 2012, holiday, movie, preview

3 Doors Down’s Brad Arnold talks about new “Greatest Hits” album

Brad Arnold is the lead singer of the multi-platinum selling rock group 3 Doors Down. The group is set to release a greatest hits album in November and will also be hitting the road in support of that album. Media Mikes had the chance to talk with Brad about the album and the bands new line up.

Adam Lawton: Can you tell us about the greatest hits album and the 3 new songs which will be featured on it?
Brad Arnold: This album is really a look back through our first 10 or 12 years of being a band. We took the biggest songs from each album and combined them on to one. The songs feature a little bit different take as we used some of the new technology that is available and did some modernizing. The songs still all sound the same only more modern. As far as the 3 new songs being on a greatest hits record we felt we needed to put some songs on there we thought could be greatest hits of their own. I am proud of these new songs and they stand up. All 3 of them have a really good mix.

AL: How was it working with on new material with the bands new line up?
BA: We still kind of wrote everything the same way. We actually co-wrote two of the new songs with Marty Frederickson and the other song was one that didn’t make it on to our last record. It was great having Chet Roberts in the studio as he is a great musician and very creative. Chet is a real good dude.

AL: What are the bands current thoughts towards a new full length album?
BA: We really want to get on that pretty quick. I think we have left a little too much space between our records. That is something that is easy to do because you spend so much time writing and recording the songs then you spend more time on the road promoting and touring. Before you know it 2 years have gone by. We don’t want to do that this time. While we are out on tour with Daughtry we are going to be focusing on writing new material.

AL: Is writing on the road something the band does often?
BA: In the past we have set specific time aside to write when we are not on the road. We also are the guys who will often procrastinate. (Laughs) We really don’t want to do that anymore as we want to have some new material to play.

AL: How did the band get involved with playing the Republican National Convention?
BA: It was really cool to be invited down to play that. Our management had been approached to see if we had any interest in doing it and we said sure. We are not a political band but we felt it was a good place to debut the song “One Light”. The song is not a political but it’s about taking the world and making it a better place. I think if everyone did that we would live in a pretty good world.

AL: Can you tell us about the upcoming tour?
BA: This is going to be a great tour. We are heading out for 19 shows initially. There have been recent talks to take it to Mexico. It’s crazy as the tour hasn’t even started yet and we are already talking about extending it. We are also looking at taking the show over to Europe as well. I think people will really enjoy the show. Chris Daughtry is a good friend of mine and we know the P.O.D. guys pretty well also so I think this tour is going to be greater than its parts. We are bringing a show that families can come to and not worry about hearing the F bomb all the time. I like looking out and seeing parents and kids jamming along to the music together. That makes you feel really good.

AL: What other projects to you have going on in the coming months?
BA: We have The Better Life Foundation event kicking off the tour on November 17th in Mississippi. Along with that we do a big motorcycle ride which will have around 500 or more riders participating. That’s going to be a good positive note to start the tour off on. Again we will be out on the road doing shows and writing new material.

 

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Filed Under: Interviews, Music Interviews Tagged With: 3, arnold, brad, doors, downs, talks, ...

Book Review “The Art of Wreck-It Ralph”

Author: Maggie Malone, Jennifer Lee
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Release Date: November 1, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

When I saw the film “Wreck-It Ralph”, I thought that my prayers were answered as a video gamer that grew up in the 80’s.  This book shows just how much work went into this film and really allows you to appreciate it much more.  I had seen this film prior to reading this book and it literally made me want to run out again to see it.  If anyone reads this in reserve order you will surely get the immediate urge to see it. It is literally a perfect companion to this fantastic film.  The film is so extremely colorful and creative and unique and this book compliments all those aspects very well. Perfect idea for a Holiday gift!

The collaboration between authors Jennifer Lee and Maggie Malone really show that they love this film themselves and are looking to share it.  Jennifer Lee was a writer on “Wreck-It Ralph” and Maggie Malone is the director of development at Walt Disney Animation Studios, where she has worked on films including “Tangled”, “Tinker Bell”, and “The Princess and the Frog”. They succeeded in developing and delivered a very sharp book that makes you unable to put down.  It is very in-depth and goes into great detail on each of the video-game worlds created for this film.  There is specific focus on the design process and character development, which I enjoyed the most. It was cool to see the evolution of Ralph and how he came about. I also enjoyed the different interviews with the people behind this film. The artwork in the book is beautifully presented and very colorful.  Great job, Chronicle Books – yet again!

There is a preface included by Pixar’s John Lasseter, which nicely sets the mood for the book.  Rich Moore, the director of “Wreck-It Ralph”, gives a supporting foreword. Since this film takes aims at video games from the classic 8-bit arcade games to the video games of today’s high-def digital age. Both periods of gaming are perfectly respected and honored throughout this book. If you are looking for something to complement this great film or just something for your sweet tooth, then be sure to check out the “Sugar Rush” section. It made me crave some sweets ASAP, especially Devil Dogs.  Oh I miss Hostess already! If there is anything wrong with this book is that it ended, I would have love to kept reading for much longer.

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Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: art, book, ralph, review, wreckit

Blu-ray Review “The Odd Life of Timothy Green”

Actors: Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams
Directors: Peter Hedges
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Disney
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 105 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

When it comes to the whole family movie genre, it usually lands too cheesy or too kiddy.  But “The Odd Life of Timothy Green” is a nice blend of comedy, drama and inspiration for the whole family.  When this film was in theaters, I wasn’t particularly interested in the film but I figured I would give it a shot on Blu-ray.  The cast is good but Edgerton feels a little out of place from his roles in “Warrior” and “The Thing”. Garner is good as the neurotic mother. I expect we will be seeing a lot of CJ Adams, he definitely had a lot of potential.  So get the family together and get ready to get the chills.

Official Premise: Disney brings enchantment home with The Odd Life Of Timothy Green, an inspiring, magical story for the whole family starring Jennifer Garner. Cindy (Garner) and Jim Green are a happily married couple who can’t wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, Cindy and Jim – and their small town of Stanleyville – learn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of life’s greatest gifts.

Disney released this film in a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD included.  The film delivers a beautiful video presentation with its 1080p transfer. Geoff Zanelli’s score really seals the deal with its very sharp DTS-HD MA 5.1 track. The special features included are a “This is Family”, which is a look into how the story became. “The Gift of Music” is a feature on Glen Hansard’s song ‘This Gift’ and Geoff Zanelli’s score. There is also a music video for Hansard’s song. There is a audio commentary track from the director, Peter Hodges. Lastly, there are five deleted scenes included with optional commentary tracks available from the director.

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Fran Drescher talks about “Happily Divorced” and her Cancer Schmancer Movement

Fran Drescher is known best for creating and starring in the TV series’ “The Nanny” and “Happily Divorced”.  Fran is also a cancer survivor and currently founder of the Cancer Schmancer Movement, as well as it program Trash Cancer.  Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Fran about her new season of “Happily Divorced” and about her work to fight Cancer.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us what we can expect season three of “Happily Divorced”? Guest stars?
Fran Drescher: We premiere on November 28th. We had a cliffhanger with the last twelve episodes and this picks up where it left off with a new arc for our main character. This season we have amazing guest stars. Joan Collins has a reoccurring role playing herself. Molly Shannon is going to play Peter’s sister. Cindy Lauper will play Renee Taylor’s daughter. Ralph Macchio is back as the man who in love with me. We are introducing some new characters as well. We have a neighbor moving in next door. It is going to be a fantastic season.

MG: John Michael Higgins and you are just fantastic on the show; you guys have great comedic chemistry.
FD: He is so great. I am so thrilled and blessed to have him as my leading man.

MG: “Happily Divorced” has been going for a few seasons now, how was it been not only starring but also writing and producing?
FD: My job is very similar to what it was on “The Nanny”. I created that series as well with my partner Peter Jacobson. I wear a lot of hats but I really enjoy the whole aspect of putting together a series. I find it very exciting and stimulating. It can be exhausting. It can be challenging. But I think I would be bored if I didn’t tap into all of my strengths. I would feel a little bit stuck. This keeps me very stimulated, both creatively and intellectually.

MG: What do you enjoy most about working with TV Land?
FD: They are a good group. They are a small network, so there is not a lot of bureaucracy. It is a really a collective art form. We love all the people that we have to deal with. I feel like we are in a really good place. They have people that are really into situational comedy, in the old school sense of the word, and that is my brand of comedy. So it is a really good fit.

MG: How do you compare your experience with “Happily Divored” from your other shows like “The Nanny”?
FD: I think we have a lot of great writers that came from “The Nanny”. Due to that we have some great laugh-out-loud comedy. I think that this character deals with the woman that is closer in age to me, who finding herself single in her mid-years. It has a very significant social message, which is “Love is love, it is not conditional and everyone has a right to an authentic life.” I think at this stage in my life it is nice for me to produce things that not only make you laugh but then have some kind of resonance.

MG: Tell us about your work with your Cancer Schmancer Movement?
FD: It is the organization that I founded and have continued to be president and visionary for. It came out of my New York Times bestseller “Cancer Schmancer”, which came out of my own cancer survival – which I am twelve years well! Over the years, I began to formulate a feeling that the emphasis for trying to find a cure for cancer is really kind of like closing the barn door after the horses escape. The better way to “cure cancer” is to not get it in the first place. How is that for a cure? What the Cancer Schmancer Movement also does is educate the public on how to transpond from being a patient to a medical consumer. We urge you to learn the early warning whispers of the cancers that may affect you and also know the tests that are available.

MG: Tell us about your campaign to Trash Cancer?
FD: It is our new program through Cancer Schamancer to educate Americans on how to detox their home, which turns out to be the most toxic place that we spend the most time in. Since 90% of cancer is environmental, we should begin with what we bring into our home through purchasing power. That we have control over. We can effectively reduce our chance for cancer by making healthier choices on what we put in, on and around us.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: cancer, divorced, drescher, fran, happily, movement, ...

“Sushi Girl” Interview Series with Mark Hamill, Tony Todd, Sonny Chiba and More!

SUSHI GIRL centers on the compelling character of a man called “Fish,” just released after six years in jail after successfully not ratting on those involved in the robbery that sent him to prison. The night he is released, the men he protected with silence celebrate his freedom with a congratulatory dinner. The meal is a lavish array of sushi, served off the naked body of a beautiful young woman. The sushi girl seems catatonic, trained to ignore everything in the room, even if things become dangerous. Sure enough, the unwieldy thieves can’t help but open old wounds in an attempt to find their missing loot, with violent results.

Media Mikes had been working and promoting this film since August 2011. “Sushi Girl” is finally being released on VOD everywhere on November 27th, 2012 and in theaters on January 4th, 2013. It has been a long road for this little-movie-that-could but it deserves the attention. “Sushi Girl” is easily one of my favorite films of 2012. We got a chance to finally complete our interview series with the legendary Mark Hamill (“Star Wars”) and Noah Hathaway (“The Neverending Story”). We are proud to be supporting this film and hope you enjoy!


Andy Mackenzie & James Duval
Cortney Palm
David Dastmalchian
Destin Pfaff
Destin Pfaff, Kern Saxton, Neal Fischer & Suren Seron

Mark Hamill
Noah Hathaway
Sonny Chiba
Tony Todd

Directed by: Kern Saxton
Written by: Kern Saxton and Destin Pfaff
Produced by: Neal Fischer, Destin Pfaff, Kern Saxton, and Suren M. Seron
Cast: Tony Todd, James Duval, Noah Hathaway, Andy Mackenzie and Mark Hamill, Cyrus Alexander, Michael Biehn, Sonny Chiba, David Dastmalchian, Jeff Fahey, David Reynolds, Ted Stryker, Danny Trejo, introducing Cortney Palm

Find out more at our official site: http://www.sushigirlmovie.com/
Follow us on Twitter @ http://twitter.com/SushiGirlMovie
Exclusive Facebook Content: http://www.facebook.com/SushiGirlMovie
Check out our IMDB at http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1606339/

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DVD Review “Paul McCartney: Live Kisses – From Capitol Studios in Hollywood”

Actors: Paul McCartney
Directed by: Jonas Åkerlund
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Eagle Rock Entertainment
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Run Time: 120 minutes

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

Paul McCartney is showing no signs of slowing down since his days The Beatles. This latest DVD release is a capture of one of the most intimate concerts as he performs his songs from his critically acclaimed album “Kisses On The Bottom”.  It was recorded and filmed at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles, February 2012.  The new album has this simple yet addicting factor to it.  I have been listening to it on loop since it’s release.  It has every inspired art creations from my mother-in-law from the track “The Inch Worm”. The release is another gem from Eagle Rock and a must purchase for all Beatles and fans of McCarthy.

The packaging on this release is very notable as well.  The DVD comes in a really great book format including spectacular a sweet 40 page hardback book, which features an extensive collection of photographs from the event and rehearsals. This concert includes 13 tracks from the album and also reunites McCartney with the all-star musicians who joined him to record the album originally. The audio and video on the DVD are great and really capture the charm from this very intimate concert film.

Official Premise: Live Kisses captures Paul McCartney performing the songs from his acclaimed Kisses On The Bottom album live from the legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood. Paul is joined by a virtuoso group of musicians led by Diana Krall on the piano in these sparkling renditions of classic songs from the American songbook and the wonderful new song My Valentine. In between the songs there are interview clips with Paul, Diana Krall and many of those involved in the recording of the Kisses On The Bottom album. This is an intimate and charming performance which adds yet another facet to Paul McCartney’s already broad canvas of talents.

The special features included are quite impressive as well.  There are six different versions of the “My Valentine” music video, which are directed by Paul McCartney and starring Johnny Depp and Natalie Portman.  There is a featurette on the “Making My Valentine”. There are two short films with behind-the-scenes footage filmed at the album photoshoot for “Kisses On The Bottom”. Lastly there is an interview with Paul McCartney and producer Tommy LiPuma discussing “Kisses on the Bottom”.

TRACK LISTING:
1) I’m Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter
2) Home (When Shadows Fall)
3) It’s Only A Paper Moon
4) The Glory Of Love
5) More I Cannot Wish You
6) We Three (My Echo, My Shadow And Me)
7) Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive
8) My Valentine
9) Always
10) My Very Good Friend The Milkman
11) Bye Bye Blackbird
12) Get Yourself Another Fool
13) My One And Only Love

 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: capitol, dvd, hollywood, kisses, live, mccartney, ...

DVD Review “Silent Night, Deadly Night: Double Feature”

Starring: Lilyan Chauvin, Gilmer McCormick, Toni Nero, Robert Brian Wilson, Eric Freeman, James L. Newman, Elizabeth Cayton, Jean Miller
Directors: Charles E. Sellier, Jr., Lee Harry
MPAA Rating: NR / R
Studio: Starz / Anchor Bay
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Running Time: 85 / 88 minutes

“Silent Night, Deadly Night”: 3.5 out of 5 stars
“Silent Night, Deadly Night: Part 2”: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays, no question.  But what is Christmas without a little cheesy 80’s slasher horror.  “Silent Night, Deadly Night” has always been a favorite of mine to revisit during the holiday season.  The film has been hated and fought against since it theatrical release date.  It goes in and out-of-print on DVD what seems like every few years.  It has never been given the respect that it deserves.  In this Christmas Survival Double Feature, we get both “Silent Night, Deadly Night” and its absolutely terrible rehash sequel “Silent Night, Deadly Night: Part 2” on one release.   Horror fans will enjoy this release to get into the holiday spirit.

“Silent Night, Deadly Night” comes in its original unrated version, which is the best way to view it. The only issue is that it varies in quality since the uncut footage is not as clean. There is a nice disclaimer before the film starts, which says pretty much “Hey, here is the extra footage you asked for but it ain’t pretty”.  I prefer the extra gore to quality.   “Silent Night, Deadly Night: Part 2” is a really sad excuse for a film.  It spends the first 40 minutes only showing clips from the first film.  Let’s just say they put this film was a double features since no one would buy it solo.

“Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)”: Years ago, little Billy saw his parents murdered by an escaped killer wearing a Santa Claus costume. The experience left indelible scars on his psyche, made all the worse by his subsequent years languishing in an orphanage, where his life was made a living hell by the cruel and domineering Mother Superior (Lilyan Chauvin, Universal Soldier). With the help of the sympathetic Sister Margaret (Gilmer McCormick, Slaughterhouse-Five, Starting Over), the 18-year-old Billy (Robert Brian Wilson, “Search for Tomorrow”) secures a job at a toy store. But when the store’s regular Santa is injured, Billy is called upon to don the red suit. But as he does, he becomes a ticking time bomb. The traumatic memories of his parents’ murders, combined with the abuse he has suffered at the hands of the Mother Superior, propel him into a state of psychotic rage. Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s got murder on his mind…

“Silent Night, Deadly Night: Part 2” (1987): Billy’s younger brother Ricky (Eric Freeman) follows in the family tradition of Christmas carnage. Psycho Santa is back…to deck the halls with chunks of bodies!

The special features are nothing spectacular but has a few extras worth checking out.  On “Silent Night, Deadly Night”, there is a audio interview with the director, Charles E. Sellier, Jr.; as well as poster and still gallery and “Santa’s Stocking of Outrage” featurette.  “Silent Night, Deadly Night: Part 2”, besides being an embarrassment of a film, contains an audio commentary from writer/director Lee Harry, Writer Joseph H. Earle and actor James Newman.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included, as well as a poster and still gallery. Also if you watch the film on your computer it has a DVD-Rom extra includes the original screenplay to download.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: deadly, double, dvd, feature, night, review, ...

3D Blu-ray Review “Men in Black 3”

Actors: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin
Directors: Barry Sonnenfeld
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 30, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

“Men in Black” is a fun series.  The first film was very unique in its time.  The second was a bit messy but still tons of fun.  The third film takes the series into a nice direction.  I am not sure if there will be a fourth film but it is much welcomed.   The film seems a little over-budgeted to me but is a hell of a ride and very entertaining.  The 3D on the Blu-ray is good but not stunning.  You can tell that this was converted into 3D for the money. There is a nice about a depth added due to the added third-dimension, there is just no WOW factor from it. The film still works though with or without it though. Josh Brolin is a nice addition to the cast and gives a spot on performances for K (aka Tommy Lee Jones).  I also think this film has real replay value and I look forward to watching it again soon (which is rare with most films I watch).

Official Premise: In “Men in Black 3”, Agents J [Will Smith] and K [Tommy Lee Jones] are back… in time. Agent J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when Agent K’s life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that Agent K never told him – secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K [Josh Brolin] to save his partner, the agency and the future of humankind.

Sony Home Entertainment’s release comes in a three-disc combo pack. There is a Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray and a DVD included, as well as a Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The 1080p transfer is sharp and impressive, whether you are watching in 3D or 2D. I still will most likely revisit this again in 3D, even though it wasn’t perfect. I liked the depth given to the film and I thin kit is worth it just for that. The real star of this release though is the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround audio track. It works perfectly with the film’s action and Elfman’s score. My surround sound really needed a nap after this extreme workout.

“Men in Black 3” also marks the debut use of “The Movie Touch”, which is an interactive bonus for those with an iPad. It goes well beyond the concept of a second-screen app. It allows you to watch the movie on their iPad while also navigating numerous bonus behind-the-scenes videos, photos, fun facts, soundtrack music info, multi-angle explorations, an interactive timeline, actor profiles, exclusive content and more. The Movie Touch App is available free from the App Store, here. This is going to be a very cool feature with possibilities going forward with future titles like “Total Recall” and I look forward to see what’s next.

Sony has been really embracing the Blu-ray 3D format. They actually include some 3D special features again after “The Amazing Spider-Man”. They are not show-stopper but still 3D extra nonetheless. “The Case of Boris the Animal: The 3D Models of MIB 3” is an interactive feature that allows you to interact with a 3D display and may learn more the film’s goodies like the Particle Randomizer, the Class 2 Jet Pack, the Archanan Time Jumper, Boris’ Motorcycle, and the Monocycles. There is also a ever-to-short look with Visual Effects Supervisor Corey Turner on “Converting to 3D”. I wish this was much longer but still cool. Lastly there is a 3D trailer for “The Amazing Spider-Man”.

The rest of the special features are on the 2D Blu-ray disc. “Spot the Alien Game” is a cute but not amazing FPS using your remote. Kids might enjoy this more than adults. “Partners in Time: The Making of MIB 3” is a decent length behind-the-scenes feature with cast and crew chatting about everything from production to visual effects. “The Evolution of Cool: MIB 1960’s vs. Today” is nice feature on bringing the series back and its travels through time. “Keeping it Surreal: The Visual FX of MIB 3” focuses solely on the film’s special effects and creature designs. “Scene Investigations” is a detailed focus on specific scenes, including Lunar Prison Escape, Showdown at Mr. Wu’s, J’s Time Jump, and The Motorcycle Chase. Animation Supervisor Spencer Cook and VFX Supervisors Ken Ralston and Jay Redd takes us through “Progression Reels” with a commentary voice over on the design and digital effects. Lastly, there is a very funny gag reel and music video for “Back in Time” by Pitbull included.

 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3, 3d, black, bluray, men, review, ...
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