Starring: Jimmy Buffett
Release Date: June 19, 2012
Number of Discs: 2
Tracks: 15
Running Time:
Label: Mailboat Records

Blu-ray Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars
CD Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I have been a life-long Jimmy Buffett fan, although only seeing him live for the first time earlier this year. Living in Florida, there is also no shortage of Jimmy Buffett mentality but I will take more wherever I can. Jimmy Buffett is also a rare act that can constantly produce live albums and DVDs and still manage to excite fans and deliver a fantastic time worth re-purchasing. Jimmy Buffett concerts are unlike any concert I have ever been to. The energy is so unique and what better than to watch it from the best seat in the house! So crack open that Margarita mix, get that blender ready and party it out with Jimmy and friends.

This release marks the first time that Jimmy is available in high definition Blu-ray. If that isn’t enough this comes as a two disc set with a CD of the show as well. The concert featured here includes the best of from his 2011 Las Vegas shows. I am not sure why the entire concert wasn’t included though since all of his concert is really a best of. Also included on the Blu-ray only is a never before released music video of “Elvis Presley Blues”. I just love the fact that this come with both Blu-ray and CD, since one can stay in my car and one in my Blu-ray player! 24 hours of Jimmy Buffett.

It is funny because when I think of Vegas, I immediately think of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville at the Flamingo Hotel. Las Vegas seems to be an awesome venue to catch one of his concerts. This concert contains combined performances from 2 incredible Saturday night shows at the MGM. The audio/video on the Blu-ray is just superb and makes you feel like you are there in the audience. Of course there is nothing like a live show, this will hold you over until Jimmy’s next go-round in your town. Inquirers who are curious about what a Buffett concert is like will enjoy this personal and intimate view. But obviously, hardcore fans of Jimmy, this purchase is a no-brainer.

Track Listing:
1. Viva Las Vegas
2. Brown Eyed Girl
3. License to Chill
4. Off To See The Lizard
5. Life Is Just A Tire Swing
6. Bama Breeze
7. Gypsies In The Palace
8. It’s Midnight And I’m Not Famous Yet
9. Knee Deep
10. Back Where I Come From
11. Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes
12. One Particular Harbour
13. Fins
14. Defying Gravity
15. Elvis Presley Blues (Blu-ray only)

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Directors: John Musker, Ron Clements
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emma Thompson, Roscoe Lee Browne, Corey Burton, Patrick McGoohan
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: July 3, 2012
Running Time: 95 minutes

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

There is something unique about Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island”, it is such a timeless story and always draws me in no matter what.  Throw in the fact it is made by Disney and includes a futuristic twist, I say count me in! The directors behind this film are John Musker & Ron Clements known best for “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin”. They are legends and even though this film isn’t a classic it still ranks well among Disney’s animated films. It is fun and very visually impressive. In fact the film not only showcases hand-drawn 2D traditional animation but also feature fully-mapped CGI environments. Even though this film was a financial disappointment, it is still a visual masterpiece, includes fun characters and a great tribute to Stevenson’s story.  Disney fans will not want to miss this release for sure!

Like all Disney Blu-ray, especially the hand-drawn ones, “Treasure Planet” looks amazing with its 1080 transfer. It is a virtually perfect transfer and a really treat for this film’s anniversary release. The audio available is jam packed with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. It really shines and works great with the film’s action scenes. This release comes in a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD disc within.

The special features included on this Blu-ray are basically ports of the 2003 DVD but still are decent.  There is an introduction to the extras from actress Laurie Metcalf.  There is an amazing audio commentary with producer Roy Conli, co-directors/co-writers John Musker and Ron Clements, and supervising animators Glen Keane, John Ripa and Ian Gooding.  It is extesive and very entertaining. There are almost 45 minutes of production featurettes within mini one-to-three-minute featurettes ranging from pencil tests, early animatics and more.  “Disney’s Animation Magic” features Roy Disney going behind-the-scenes of “Treasure Planet” within all aspects of the production.  There are three unfinished deleted scenes, including an alternate ending with intros by directors John Musker and Ron Clements. “R.L.S. Legacy: Virtual 3D Tour” is split into two parts, the first is “Technical Tour” and “Nautical Tour”.  Lastly “DisneyPedia: The Life of a Pirate Revealed” is a six-part featurette looks at the life and time of historical pirates.

Directors: John Sanford, Will Finn
Starring: G.W. Bailey, Roseanne Barr, Booby Block, Steve Buscemi, Judi Dench, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Randy Quaid.
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: July 3, 2012
Runing Time: 95 minutes

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

“Home on the Range” was the last the original hand-drawn Disney films, before “The Princess of the Frog”. It was a disappointment at the box office and with audiences. Personally, I thought the film was ok but nothing special. In fact, watching this on Blu-ray was the first time I saw it since theaters back in 2004. When revisiting this film, it proves to be decent, backed with some fun music (thanks Alan Menken) and even though not Disney’s best is still worth picking up for the mega-Disney fans.  I still enjoy watching hand-drawn animation even if it is not the best film.  There is just something about the way hand-drawn animation looks on Blu-ray, even though computer animated is so polished and perfect, these films hold a certain look and feel.

When it comes to Disney Blu-ray’s, they are always known for delivers the best video on the format. “Home on the Range” looks very colorful and sharp but overall not the best I have ever seen. It is still very impressive and a nice upgrade from DVD. Disney’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is also very impressive and works really well the original songs written by composer Alan Menken. This release comes in a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD disc within.

The special features included are worth checking out but are presented only in standard definition.  There is an audio commentary with Producer Alice Dewey and co-writers/co-directors Will Finn and John Sanford, which is a good time all around.  “Trailblazers: The Making of Home on the Range” is a production overview covering story development to character design to voice casting to to the songs and music.  “Art Review” follows art director David Cutler and background supervisor Cristy Maltese discussing about creating the look and feel for the film.  There are four deleted scenes, which are all unfinished with intros from the co-directors. “A Dairy Tale: The Three Little Pigs” is a cute animated short narrated by Judi Dench.  There is a music video for “Anytime You Need a Friend,” performed by the Beu Sisters. “Yodelmentary” is a very short piece teaching kids to yodel. Lastly “Joke Corral: Herd of Jokes” is a gag reel basically through yodeling.

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Directed by: Kenny Ortega
Starring: Christian Bale, David Moscow, Bill Pullman, Robert Duvall, Max Casella
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: June 19, 2012
Running Time: 121 minutes

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

It is hard to believe that it is already the 20th anniversary of the classic family musical. “Newsies” was a film that I grew up watching, as did my wife (one of her favorites) and it is hard to believe that so much time has passed. The film still holds up and still entertains just like it did 20 years ago. “Newsies” is currently also spreading the news on Broadway nightly and that is one thing I always thought this film would work great on the stage. The dance sequences are absolutely incredible and brilliantly choreographed by Kenny Ortega (“High School Musical”) and features music from the Hollywood legend Alan Menken (“Beauty And The Beast”). It is also crazy to see The Dark Knight and Academy Award winner Christian Bale, so young and not only dancing up-a-storm but also singing. “Santa Fe” is one of my favorites musical tracks ever. Fans of this film need to pick this release up immediately and get ready sing-along!

For a film that shot over 20 years ago before high definition, the 1080p video resolution looks clear and impressive. There is a little grain here and there but overall, I think it is a nice transfer and should satisfy most fans of the film with Disney’s state-of-the-art digital restoration. The audio in this film is key since it is a musical and it sounds great with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The music is blended well with the dialogue and is not overpowered. It is even able to come through nicely with your wife belting every line in your ear during each song.

The special features here include nothing new for its 20th anniversary release but still are decent. There is a 2002 commentary track with Director and Co-Choreographer Kenny Ortega, Producer Michael Finnell, Writers Bob Tzudiker and Noni White and Co-Choreographer Peggy Holmes, overall fun and interesting. “Newsies, Newsies, See All About It” is a featurette hosted by Max Cassella, Aaron Lohr and Arvie Lowe Jr. featuring interviews, rehearsal and on-set footage. “Newsies: The Inside Story” is another featurette continuing where the last left off with interviews on production design, costume, cinematography. “The Strike! The True Story” looks at historical context and background from the events that inspired the film. “Storyboard-to-Screen Comparison” is a nice feature with side-by-side view available with optional Commentary by Production Designer William Sandell. Lastly there are two trailers available as well and a sing-along feature in the subtitle menu as well.

Directed by: Jamil Walker Smith
Starring: Malcolm Goodwin, Jamil Walker Smith, Michael Trotter
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Image Entertainment
Release Date: July 3, 2012
Running Time: 79 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

With patriotism high with fourth of July around the corner, “The American Dream” delivers…for he most part. The film is delivers the rawness and truth behind being in war and the journey of a soldier serving one’s country. Writer/director and co-star Jamil Walker Smith really aims to deliver that and more. You can tell that he is not only trying to make a movie but also deliver a message.

The film follows the last 36 hours of two best friends, Luis and Ronald before into the war in Afghanistan. We get a chance to see their countdown moments and leading up to their enlistment. Though the two have completely different personalities, they both share similar memories and both are dealing with the mixed emotions about their decision to fight in the war.

The DVD release is lacking any special features at all, so that is a bit of a disappointment.  The performances are strong and yet even though the running time is only 79 minutes, the film seems to drag through its scenes. It is worth it to watch just for the performances alone but overall I think it will primarily only appeal to people interested in film’s about war, then the average film goer.

Directed by: Doris Wishman
Starring: Chesty Morgan, Harry Reems, Greg Reynolds, Saul Meth, Phillip Stahl
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Image Entertainment
Release Date: July 3, 2012
Running Time: 221 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Ok so if you are asking yourself, why we are reviewing this Blu-ray, my answer will be…have you see the cover image? Plus the Blu-ray has a tagline of “To See Them is to Disbelieve Them!”. Of course that is referring to Chesty Morgan’s 73-inch (real) breasts. This release comes with not one bur three Something Weird Films for the first time on Blu-ray. I mean if you going to watch 73-inch breasts they need to be in HD right? If you come in with expectations low and looking to get some great laughs this release is a fun romp and a great conversation piece if nothing else.

This film included the follow films: “Deadly Weapons”, which features Chesty Morgan (credited as just Zsa Zsa) attacks the mob with well…her 73-inch breasts! Chesty then returns as “Double Agent 73”, get the pun?, who busts up a drug ring with the aid of a camera implanted in one of her breasts. But the camera is also a time bomb making her boob… well, booby trapped! Lastly “The Immoral Three” follows the three daughters of the spy mom who must avenge her death in order to collect a three-million-dollar inheritance. No Chesty Morgan in this one unfortunately.

The Blu-ray presentation is great, especially for films show in the early 70’s. The 1080p transfer is mostly clear and sharp, besides the terrible focusing issues these films have. The audio includes a DTS HD Master Audio Stereo track, which plays well with the badly dubbed voices. There are also a few short but decent special features. Doris Wishman is the cult director of all three films included here and this comes with a “Doris Wishman Trailer Show” showcasing her cult classics. Lastly there is a Gallery of Doris Wishman Exploitation Art. Worth checking out if you enjoy these films.

Directed by: Hugh Hudson
Starring: Ben Cross, Ian Charleson, Nicholas Farrell, Nigel Havers, Ian Holm
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: July 10, 2012
Running Time: 124 minutes

Blu-ray Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Film Score: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to sports movies, I am usually not the first one in line. Though for some strange reason, I have a soft spot for the Olympics. And “Chariots of Fire” is such a well-known film in that category. It is also the winner of four Academy Awards including Best Picture, which is quite impressive also. The story follows two British track athletes, one a determined Jew, and the other a devout Christian who compete in the 1924 Olympics. I have to admit prior to this release, I have never seen this but now quite glad I did. It really packs some really emotional and intense moments and topped off with great performances. Warner Bros wins again with this Digibook release of the film contains 36 pages of behind-the-scenes photos, production art, history and more. This is worth the purchase alone of this release.

This Blu-ray release looks very nice on Blu-ray. Warner Bros did a real nice job with the 1080p transfer and packs an very sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track, which really captures the magnitude of the Olympics. This release also comes packaged with a soundtrack sampler featuring 4 songs from the Oscar-winning compilation. If all that isn’t enough there are two all new documentaries: “Paris, 1924: Birth of the Modern Games- David Puttnam” and “A Cinematic Champion”. Definitely worth checking out. There is a new interview with director Hugh Hudson as well as a commentary track from him. Additional documentaries included are “Wings on their Heels: The Making of Chariots of Fire” and “Chariots of Fire: A Reunion”. Lastly there are some deleted scenes and screen tests included as well.

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Premise: Winner of four Academy Awards(R) including Best Picture! The inspiring true story of British athletes competing in the 1924 Olympics. Ben Cross and Ian Charleson head a sterling cast of newcomers and veterans. The story, told in flashback, of two young British sprinters competing for fame in the 1924 Olympics. Eric, a devout Scottish missionary runs because he knows it must please God. Harold, the son of a newly rich Jew runs to prove his place in Cambridge society.

Directed by: Gary Fleder
Starring: Gary Sinise, Madeleine Stowe, Vincent D’Onofrio, Tony Shalhoub, Tim Guinee, Mekhi Phifer
Distributed by: Echo Bridge Entertainment
Release Date: July 17, 2012
Running Time: 102 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG-13

Blu-ray Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to action-packed sci-fi movies, I have an extreme weak spot, especially when they are from the author of “Total Recall” and “Blade Runner”. “Impostor” may not be the best film but it is action packed and really captures Philip K. Dick’s essence. The film also packs a great cast including Gary Sinise, Madeleine Stowe (who I loved in TV’s “Revenge”, BTW), Vincent D’Onofrio, Mekhi Phifer and Tony Shalhoub. I mean what a cast right? The film only question I have to Echo Bridge Entertainment is, where is the director’s cut?

The film takes place during a futuristic time when the Earth has been at war with an alien force for over a decade. It is up to the work of government scientist Spencer Olham (Sinise) in order to save the planet. Though things get complicated when Olham is accused of being an alien spy and becomes a fugitive from the law. Olham races to prove his identity, all while still trying to save all mankind.

The Blu-ray presentation on “Imposter” is definitely good stuff. The high definition 1080p transfer looks sharp and it is presented in widescreen with an 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The audio track is also delivers with both a Dolby 5.1 DTS and 2.0 Stereo tracks. There are also a few special features, nothing out-of-this-world (get it?). The extras included are “The Impostor Files”, a featurette on the production and the original short film, which is awesome. Looking to escape for a few hours, definitely grab this release as it is worth the money!

Directed by: Tarsem Singh
Starring: Lily Collins, Sean Bean, Julia Roberts, Armie Hammer, Nathan Lane
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: June 26, 2012
Running Time: 106 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

I am a big proprietor of re-telling of classic fairy tale films, I absolutely love Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland” but I felt the urge to turn off “Mirror Mirror” after only 20 minutes. Lily Collins’ was very cute in her first leading performance, which I enjoyed. The film looks very perfect and visual also thanks to Eiko Ishioka’s costume work and Tarsem Singh’s creative and visual style.  The story though was lame and dragged a lot, it was also not funny at all, when aimed as a comedy.  Overall, unless you need to see anything relating to the character Snow White, I would avoid this film.

The film follow an evil enchantress queen (Roberts) who schemes to marry a handsome, wealthy prince (Hammer), after spending all of the kingdom’s money. Although there is a small problem – he’s in love with a princess, Snow White (Collins).  So, the queen sets out to remove Snow White from her own kingdom.  While hiding out she meets and joins up with seven rebellious dwarves.  With there help, Snow White wages war on the queen in order to restore the power and save her kingdom.

When it comes to the Blu-ray presentation though, unlike the film it looks very pretty but also very “shot-on-a-set” feel. The 1080p transfers shines for sure and is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1.  The audio is also impressive with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, which works well with the score.  The release also comes with a DVD of the film, as well as a digital copy.  I wish Fox would get on the bandwagon and start using Ultraviolet digital streaming.  Lastly, it is sad but I think the part I liked most about this release was the lenticular cover.

So bad movie, great Blu-ray presentation and now back to bad.  The special features are a let down as well.  There are a five short deleted scenes including an alternate opening.  “Looking Through The Mirror” is a behind-the-scenes featurette with the cast and crew chatting about the production.  “I Believe I Can Dance” is a feature with choreographer, Paul Becker, on the film’s final dance number. “Mirror, Mirror Storybook” is storybook version of the film, which runs 28 pages and is remote-controlled. “Prince and Puppies” is the stupiest feature on this disc, with a group of puppies that watch the “puppy love” scene and give their thoughts on Armie Hammer…seriously? Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

Created by: Earl Derr Biggers
Directed by: William Hanna, Joseph Barbera
Voices of: Keye Luke, Robert Ito, Brian Tochi, Don Messick, Gene Andrusco, Jodie Foster
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Release Date: June 26, 2012
Episodes: 16
Running time: 344 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan” was not a long-running show from Hanna-Barbera but its certainly a fun show. It had an original run from September 9, 1972 – December 30, 1972, which included only 16 episodes. The show resolves Mr. Chan, his ten children and their dog Chu Chu. They go around the world and solve mysteries with the children helping their father in every episode. In fact it actually reminds me a lot of “Scooby-Doo”. They also even travel around in a van, but their’s is much cooler since it can transform into other vehicles with the push of a button. For a show that is aged 40 years, the DVD presentation looks sharp and very impressive.

The voice of Mr. Chan, Keye Luke is the only actor of Chinese descent.  Also another notable voice on the show is Jodie Foster as Anne Chan, that’s right THE Jodie Foster.  I love the cross-overs between about Hanna-Barbara shows like their is one of the characters  disguises themselves as Yogi Bear and their car reminds a lot of Hong-Hong Phooey’s car.  This show was also spoofed in Adult Swim’s “Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law”. Props need to go to Warner Archive Collection for releasing this manufacture-on-demand (MOD).  If you are a fan of classic Hanna-Barbara series, this is a no-brainer to pick up!

The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan: The Complete Series is now available: (http://bit.ly/M9VnMH)

Synopsis: Chinese-American supersleuth Charlie Chan made his cartoon transition with his customary grace, only this time he brought along the clan. Maintaining Hanna-Barbera’s winning formula (kids, mysteries, canine, van), the hit kid show also introduced some innovations (the van transforms, a double-sized team, HOWdunnits not whodunits). Most significant among these is the casting of the amazing Keye Luke (Kato, Master Po) as the voice of Charlie Chan. Not only was this the first time that an Asian-American would play Charlie Chan, it marked an apropos “graduation” for Mr. Luke, the original “Number One Son” Lee Chan of the classic Warner Oland Chan mysteries. Among those joining Mr. Luke on voice duties are Jodie Foster (Anne Chan), Lennie Weinrib (Stanley Chan) and Don Messick (Chu-Chu) in this complete 16-episode, two-disc collection.

Directed by: Matt Besser, Neil Mahoney
Starring: Michael Cassady, Megan Heyn, Matt Besser, Ian Roberts, Amy Poehler
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Image Entertainment
Release Date: July 10, 2012
Running Time: 97 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

I am big fan of Comedy Central TV series “Upright Citizens Brigade”, it was the best sketch show since MTV’s “The State”. This film though is completely un-watchable and extremely painful. I know this film originated on the stage and I have a feeling that it should have stayed on the stage. I give credit to the film’s choreography as it is decent.  The music though, feels like high school theater quality and is so ridiculously over-the-top. I really didn’t dig it at all, not one song.

The film follows, rich girl, Cocolonia (Megan Heyn) who hits the streets to join a dance crew and follow her dream of dancing.  In order to compete in a huge dance underground dance-off, she must team up with partner Funky Bunch (Cassady), she has to prove she has what it takes. Notable supporting cast is not even able to help this film succeed, like Matt Besser, Matt Walsh, Ian Roberts, Horatio Sanz and Tim Meadows. Though for a film that runs only 97 minutes, it feels well over 2.5 hours.

The special features are nothing special and forgettable. There is a commentary with writer/co-director, Matt Besser and co-director, Neil Mahoney, which is quite lame. There are a two deleted scenes and one extended scene, but I thought the film was long enough. “The Dangers of Freak Dancing” is a multi-part featurette on the dance choreography in the film and the effects of its moves.  It is just as stupid as the film is and worth skipping. Lastly there is a trailer included.

Directed by: Carl Colpaert
Starring: David Arquette, Bijou Phillips, Vivica A. Fox, Nicholas Bishop, Carla Ortiz
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed: Anchor Bay Entertainment
Release Date: July 10, 2012
Running Time: 101 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

When you see this film it looks like a really trippy look inside Tinseltown, I have to say I was really taken back how decent of a film it is. David Arquette delivered a really stunning and dramatic performance. I had a real problem with the film’s cover art though as it reveals too much. “Black Limousine” also does gets a little too existential but overall it balances out and delivers an interesting little film.

The film follows Jack MacKenzie (Arquette), a divorced father, recovering alcoholic and former Hollywood composer now working as a limousine driver. Jack tries to put his life back in the right direction but constantly ends up with creative frustration, economic desperation and emotional pain. When he crosses paths with sexy and equally unstable, model/actress (Bijou Phillips), Jack’s situation gets edges deeper into madness.

The film also had a decent supporting cast including Vivica A. Fox, Lin Shaye, Tom Bower and Nicholas Bishop. If you are looking for special features, you will be disappointed as this releases does not even come with a trailer. Nonetheless, the film is a wild ride which packs a decent visual journey that will show you the effects a man’s repressed memories, depression and addiction, while trying to succeed in Hollywood.

 Starring: John DiMaggio, Jeremy Shada, Tom Kenny
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Cartoon Network
Release Date: July 10, 2012
Running Time: 286 minutes

Season: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

Not to complain about it…but what took some long? This show is such a cult classic already and loved by both kids and adults a like. I cannot believe there has not been a complete season DVD sooner. “Adventure Time” is Cartoon Network’s #1 hit comedy show and is also an Emmy nominated. This DVD includes all 26 episodes from season one and is packaged with a collectible slipcover that is super cool for all fans of the show. I hope that Cartoon Network plans on releasing season two-four of this show as well. More importantly where is the Blu-ray release?

The show centers around the post apocalyptic adventures of Finn, a human boy with a funny hat, and his friend Jake, a magic and mischievous dog. I have no idea what it is about this show that makes it so super cool but I absolutely love it. It is not just for kids and really aims to please adults as well. The humor is so over-the-top and zany that is leaves your head spinning with each episode. The characters are also so colorful and unique that I found myself wanting more of each one, especially Lumpy Space Princess.

The special features on the DVD are fantastic. There are commentary tracks included on various episodes, which is great to listen to if you are a fan of the series. There are a bunch of great behind the scene featurettes of the crew, the composers and more filmed by creator Pendleton Ward with his very own camera phone. There are also a bunch of animatics featuring commentary by Ward, Adam Muto, Pat McHale and Derek Drymon for the “Rainy Day Daydream,” “Slumber Party Panic,” “Dungeon” and “The Enchiridion!” episodes. There is also episode commentary tracks from cast members and special guests including: “Prisoners of Love” with John DiMaggio, Jeremy Shada, Tom Kenny and Ward; “Ricardio the Heart Guy” with George Takei, Hynden Walch, Kenny, Shada and Ward; “Tree Trunks” with Bettie Ward and Polly Lou Livingston; and “Trouble in Lumpy Space” with DiMaggio, Shada, Kenny and Ward. Lastly there is also music video included on this release.

Season one episodes include: Slumber Party Panic, Trouble in Lumpy Space, Prisoners of Love, Tree Trunks, The Enchiridion!, My Two Favorite People, Memories of Boom Boom Mountain, Ricardio the Heart Guy, Finn the Wizard, City of Thieves, The Witch’s Garden, What Is Life, Ocean of Fear, When Wedding Bells Thaw, Dungeon, The Duke, Freak City, Donny, Henchman, Rainy Day Daydream, What Have You Done?, His Hero & Gut Grinder.

Directed by: Eiichi Kudo
Starring: Mikijiro Hira, Yoshio Inaba, Toru Abe
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Animeigo
Release Date: July 3, 2012
Running Time: 118 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“The Great Killing” is the second film in Eiichi Kudo’s Samurai Revolution Trilogy. This film is quite intense for a 1964 B&W samurai film, it is graphic and contains an amazing ending battle scene to rival all battle scenes. Similar to “13 Assassins”, the film is a slow burn that really nails its finale. AnimEigo is responsible for releasing this series on DVD. The last film in the series “Eleven Samurai” will also be released later this year. If AnimEigo is reading this, I would like to see a Blu-ray set of these films in the near future.

“The Great Killing” follows Shogunate Elder who sets out a plan to rule Japan by making the Shogun’s brother Tsunashige, the next Shogun. The best strategist in Japan, Yamaga, leads a plot to stop the Elder, but the plan doesn’t work out and most of the conspirators are captured and tortured. Yamaga and his remaining swordsmen are left to battle through hundreds of guards in order to kill Tsunashige. One of the most amazing fights filmed BTW.

The DVD quality itself looks very sharp in its widescreen 2.35:1 aspect ratio, especially for a 1964 released film. The B&W print is restored really well. Animeigo released this film in its original Japanese audio with various subtitles to choose from. The extras included are nothing special but include trailers, programs notes, cast & crew bios and image gallery.

Starring: Jason Gann, Elijah Wood
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: June 19, 2012
Running Time: 286 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

I have to admit, I was not aware of this show during it airing on FX last summer. I am sure glad that I had the opportunity to review the first season’s Blu-ray because it is not one of my favorite shows on television. “Wilfred” is adapted from an Australian-show, also created by Jason Gann. The show is so unique and really delivers some great laughs. Jason Gann is such a laugh riot playing Wilfred the dog, he is subtle and really steals the show. Elijah Wood is also amazing in this role, who is the only person able to communicate with Wilfred. It is a complicated and obscure relationship but very entertaining. I am looking forward to season two very much premiering June 28th on FX.

Elijah Wood stars as Ryan, a suicidal ex-lawyer, who doesn’t have the best luck. He forms a unique relationship with his neighbor’s dog Wilfred. Though Ryan sees Wilfred different from everyone else, as a weed-smoking, foul-mouthed Australian man in a dog suit (Jason Gann). The two spend a lot of time together and also get into a lot of trouble together. As the season goes on Wilfred seems to push Ryan’s sanity of what is real and what he is capable of.

The video and audio on this release are good but nothing special. The 1080p transfer is simple yet effective for this show, especially on its low-budget. The comedy really doesn’t benefit much from its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, though it does sound good. The special features on the Blu-ray are impressive. “Wilfred at Comic-Con 2011” features the show’s Comic-Con panel. There are a good 15 minutes of deleted scenes, some better than others. “Wilfred and Bear: A Love Affair” is a montage of scenes with Wilfred mating with his friend. “Maryjane Mashup” is a montage of pot-smoking scenes. Lastly “Fox Movie Channel Presents: Life After Film School with Jason Gann” is a Q&A with Jason Gann. I would have loved to seen some commentary track included for this season. Maybe on the season two Blu-ray?

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