Directed by: Takashi Shimizu
Starring: Ai Maeda, Suzuki Matsuo, Shoichiro Masumoto
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Well Go USA
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Running Time: 89 minutes

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

If you have seen Takashi Shimizu’s past work, this is a warning that “Shock Labyrinth 3D” is nothing like any of his other work. I thought that the mix of Takashi Shimizu and 3D horror would have been a match made it heaven. Instead, I found myself bored out of my mind. The 3D was absolutely terrible and that is a rare sentence you will see me write. It was poorly shot and even out of focus in some scenes. The spooks in “The Grudge” still haunts me and I was hoping to get scared in 3D but there was not even one scary aspect in the film, unless you count falling asleep.

The film follows a group of teenagers, who find a friend who has been missing for 10 years though it is not a warm welcoming. There was a lot of mystery behind her disappearance it and led back to a labyrinth haunted house inside an abandon hospital. The friends find themselves drawn back to the hospital but are unable to leave once things go array and they find out the reason for their returned visit. The friend realize that their missing friend has plans to get revenge for leaving her a decade back.

The Blu-ray presentation overall was not impressive at all. The video had some major issues with clarity and completely misused the 3D format. The sound on the film is ok but nothing special with its Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, though I found myself watching in English dub to avoid the terrible 3D Japanese subtitles. The film is a combo pack and also came with a DVD 2D version of the film. The 3D Blu-ray disc also came with a 2D version of the film but I do not think it would matter since it a bad movie, 3D or not.

The special features on this Blu-ray are just as bad as the film is. All of the extras are obviously subtitled as well. There about 30 minutes of interviews included. There is a brief behind-the-scenes featurette, nothing worth watching. Lastly there is a press conference footage which is also extremely short.

Related Content

• Blu-ray Review “The Terror Experiment”
• DVD Review “Episode 50”
• DVD Review “11-11-11: The Prophecy”
• EXCLUSIVE BREAKING NEWS: Ralph Bakshi announces “Wizards 2” script is in the works!
• Blu-ray Review “Thou Shalt Not Kill…Except”

Directed by: Josh Trank
Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Michael Kelly, Alex Russell
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Run Time: 84 minutes

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

It is rare that a film gets better with repeat viewings…well “Chronicle” does. The film is such a simple idea that packs such a payoff in the end that it only get better and better. Since this release is called “The Lost Footage Edition”, I was hoping for a decent Unrated Director’s Cut. But it is really not much more that just glorified extended scenes. I still prefer the Theatrical Cut and if you stick with that then this film will not disappoint. Found Footage POV films were given a whole new twist with this film and I look forward to “Chronicle 2”.

“Chronicle” follows three high school kids that come across a mysterious object buried in the ground, touch it and end up with superpowers. It is basically that simple. The guys firstly experience some telekinesis by moving cars around parking lots or pranks in grocery stores but then they realize they can do a hell of a lot more. Once they find out they can fly things get amped up quite a bit. When one of the guys takes his powers a little too far, it is up to his friends to try and stop him before it is too late.

The Blu-ray looks and sounds out of this world (get it?). Seriously, the 1080p transfer looks so vibrant, even though it is considered a low-budget POV film. The sound packs an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and works so well with the film’s action scenes. This release, along with the Blu-ray, comes with a DVD disc of the film and a digital copy. Since this is the “The Lost Footage Edition”, the film does include both the Unrated Director’s Cut and the Theatrical Cut.

The special features though are not as impressive as the film at all. There is no commentary tracks, interviews or major behind-the-scenes featurettes. There is a short feature looking into the camera tests, which showcase the tricks from the film. “Pre-Viz” focuses on the special effects sequences, would have been decent if it was about 15 minutes longer. There is a brief deleted scene called “Matt and Casey in Kitchen”. Lastly, there is the theatrical trailer and “Chronicle” Soundtrack Info included.

Directed by: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
Starring: Bridgit Mendler, David Henrie, Amy Poehler, Will Arnett, Moises Arias
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 94 minutes

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

“The Secret World of Arrietty” is easily one of my favorite animated films. It might even be one of my favorite Studio Ghibli films as well. The more you watch this film the better it gets. It is such a simple film but it also so absolutely vibrant and enthralling that you can’t take your eyes off the screen. I love the hand-drawn animation, Hollywood doesn’t give them the respect that they deserve. My favorite part of this film is honestly the score. It is written and performed by the very talented French singer/songwriter, Cécile Corbel. It is one of my favorite scores, in recent times, if not ever.

The story tells the tale of a family of four-inch-tall people, called Borrowers, who live hidden about the humans or beans as they are called in the film. They survive by borrowing only what they need to survive and only items that will not be missed. On the first night that the young girl Arrietty (Mendler) goes borrowing with her father, they are spotted by a bean and their lives will never be the same. The human is a sick young boy named Shawn, that is very sweet and friendly. Unfortunately, his Great Aunt Hara does not have the same feeling and seeks to have them captured.

The Blu-ray presentation looks much better than it did in the theaters. The colors are more vibrant and the animation just pops right off the screen. The 1080p transfer looks so fantastic and crisp. The sound, like I mentioned, is just absolutely perfect with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. I wish Disney would have sprung though for the 7.1 track but it is still amazing. The special features are a bit disappointing for a Disney film. The best feature is a storyboard version of the film, definitely worth checking out for animation fans. There are the original Japanese trailers and TV commercials, worth checking out also. Lastly there are two music videos for “Summertime” by Bridgit Mendler and “Arrietty’s Song” by Cécile Corbe. I would have loved to see more production featurettes and commentary tracks included.

Directed by: James Watkins
Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Ciarán Hinds, Janet McTeer
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Sony Picutres Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 95 minutes

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

“The Woman in Black” is Daniel Radcliffe’s first major role since the “Harry Potter” series and really gives him a chance to shine. The film is very dark and atmospheric. It is released by Hammer and resembles its charm and very well. Since it was PG-13 though, a few of the good scare moments are tamed a little but there are still some decent spooks. The film’s score is so fantastic and really helps drive the film. Overall, if you are fan of classic Hammer films, this is as close as you are going to get and you should not be disappointed.

Daniel Radcliffe plays as Arthur Kipps, a lawyer, who travels to the English countryside in order to manage the estate of a newly deceased woman, while also still grieving the loss of his own wife. Arthur realizes that their is a deadly secret that is plaguing the local villagers and does not get a warm welcoming. While in the estate, he seems the ghost of the woman and tries to figure out what happened to her in order to help and stay alive.

The DVD comes with some decent but not spectacular extras. There is a commentary track from director James Watkins and screenwriter Jane Goldman, worth checking out. Lastly, there two behind-the-scenes featurettes. The first is called “Inside The Perfect Thriller: Making The Woman in Black”, it is worth checking out if you enjoyed the film. “No Fear: Daniel Radcliffe as Arthur Kipps” is self-explainatory and focuses on the film’s role.

Related Content

• Blu-ray Review “Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Alpha”
• Digital Film Review “General Orders No. 9”
• Blu-ray Review “3 Days to Kill”
• Blu-ray Review “Much Ado About Nothing”
• Blu-ray Review “The Company You Keep”

Directed by: Josef Rusnak
Starring: Jon Voight, Teri Polo, Julian Morris, Dermot Mulroney
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

When a film is listed as “From the producers of “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance and the director of “The Thirteenth Floor”, I should have taken the warning.  Jon Voight takes the lead on this film but doesn’t really mesh well in a supernatural thriller.  Teri Polo’s role is virtually non-existent and Dermot Mulroney can do so much better, been loving his role in Fox’s “New Girl”.  This film suffers from not knowing what it is aiming for whether it is kidnapping film or a supernatural film and it definitely fails on both angles.

“Beyond” follows a detective (Voight), who specializes in child abductions and get one last case before retiring.  The case leads the detective to form a partnership with a radio psychic in order to find the missing niece of his boss.  The film culminates for a very predictable twist ending that won’t surprise even the simplest of viewers.

The Blu-ray presentation looks good with its 1080p transfer. The film is very dark but still looks sharp.  The sounds is also good with a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track, which is clear and works well with the score.  If you are looking for special features, look again because “Beyond” comes completely bare bones…not even a trailer. I would skip this film on all account unless you are totally completely bored and looking for something to laugh at…well there is always Syfy films in that case as well though.

Related Content

• Film Review “Pearl Jam Twenty”
• DVD Review “The Confession”
• DVD Review “Hatfields & Mccoys: Bad Blood”
• DVD Review “The Woman in Black”
• DVD Review “The Bleeding House”

Directed by: Steven C. Miller
Starring: Ray Wise, Dana Ashbrook, Derek Mears
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Release Date: May 29, 2012
Running Time: 85 minutes

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

When I see a film by Steven C. Miller it immediately gets my attention. I have been a fan of his work since 2006’s “Automaton Transfusion”. He is known for his work in the horror genre and in fact is currently remaking the classic “Silent Night, Deadly Night”. Though this film is like nothing he has ever done before and is his most mature film to date. “The Aggression Scale” is a home invasion thriller that goes completely wrong since “Home Alone” mixed with “Rambo”. The film starts slow but once its gets running it is unstoppable.

When mob boss (Ray Wise) finds that that someone has stolen $500,000 from him, he sets out four heavily armed hitmen to search for the people responsible. When they storm the Rutledge family’s home, they get much more than they bargained for. They quickly find out that the family’s kids are more dangerous than the killers, specifically the young son Owen, who is deeply emotionally disturbed.

“The Aggression Scale” not only excels in tension it also is incredibly violent and gory. Dana Ashbrook (“Twin Peaks”) and Derek Mears (“Friday the 13th”) are totally kick-ass in their roles I just wish that the brilliant Ray Wise (“Twin Peaks”, “Reaper”) would have been in it more. Ryan Hartwig also is creepy as hell as the Rambo-esque son with an anger issue. His role was wordless and he really nailed it.

The Blu-ray presentation was impressive for a low-budget film. The video is presented well with its 1080p transfer and 2.40:1 aspect ratio. The audio works really well with the film’s suspense and score, boasting a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track. The special features though are not as impressive. There is only one short behind-the-scenes feature, which runs about 15 minutes. Worth checking out but was hoping for a little more in the extra department.

Related Content

• Blu-ray Review “The Beast (Special Extended Edition)”
• 3D Blu-ray Review “Immortals 3D”
• DVD Review “Futurama: Volume 7”
• Blu-ray Review “Hammer of the Gods”
• Blu-ray Review “Rigor Mortis”

Directed by: Marton Prech
Distributed by: Ultimate 3D Heaven
Release Date(s): October 1, 2011 (Magic Forest) / June 14, 2012 (Mystic Mountains)
Run Time: 70 minutes (Magic Forest) / 140 minutes (Mystic Mountains)

Our Scores: 3 out of 5 stars

I enjoy watching 3D Blu-rays and I enough watching beautiful landscapes. Put them both together and you get both “3D Magic Forest & Mystic Mountains”. These Blu-rays are very simple yet unique. They take you on a very tranquil and relaxing journey through some amazing landscapes. There is no narration or speaking in either of these films just relaxing spa-like music from Szabolcs Kovi. The music is definitely relaxing, perhaps too relaxing.

“3D Magic Forest” takes us through a visual journey of the Hungarian National Park Bukk. The film runs just shy of an hour and looks great in 3D. “3D Mystic Mountains” run about 40 minutes as well and focuses on Austria’s beautiful mountains and lakes. Ultimate 3D Heaven released these films in beautiful full 1080p with 24 FPM. This really adds to the scenary. I do not think this would be as interesting if it wasn’t in 3D, since it really makes the visuals pop.

While I was watching the television, I couldn’t help but feel like I was watching a scrolling screensaver. I do not see myself ever visiting these locations so it was cool to get a chance to see them in 3D. Each Blu-ray includes full versions of Blu-ray 3D, Green-Magenta and Red-Cyan Anaglyph (3D Glasses Not Included). So even if you don’t have the new cool 3D TV’s, it also works with old school red/blue glasses but not as cool for sure.

Director: William Brent Bell
Starring: Fernanda Andrade, Simon Quarterman, Evan Helmuth
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: May 15, 2012
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 87 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 0 out of 5 stars

When it comes to film’s about exorcism, I always have a sweet spot. If you mix that with the return of the found-footage genre, thanks to “Paranormal Activity”, you get a winner. This film got a lot of shit for its ending but if you are a horror fan at all, I have to aask what did you expect? And if you aren’t a horror fan, why the hell you seeing this movie? The film was shot for a very low budget and in that budget it manages to delivers some great effects a long with an interesting story. I say bring on “The Devil Inside 2”, can’t be any worse that “The Exorcist II: Heretic”.

The film follows a young girl, Isabella, who wants to find out the truth about her mother, Maria Rossi. In 1989, she was arrested for killing three people during a supposed exorcism on herself. She is moved to a hospital in Italy for “undisclosed reason” and Isabella wants to get to the bottom of her condition. She hires a filmmaker to film her on her journey to Italy to learn more about exorcisms and her mothers situation. After meeting with her mother, she finds that she is involved with more than she can handle and the devil is definitely real.

The Blu-ray looks good for a found-footage film. It is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, which delivers a few great spooks. Currently this film is only available to purchase exclusively at Best Buy. If you are looking for special features on this film, you’ll be disappointed. It is completely bare-bones, not even a trailer. I really hope that when they release this everywhere else that they will re-work this release and include some extras.

Directed by: James Neilson
Starring: Raquel Welch, James Stacy, Luke Askew
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 99 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to watching Raquel Welch in a film, you do not have to ask me twice. Especially Raquel Welch from 1969 wearing tight clothes and playing an exotic dancer. The film itself though is definitely something out of the 60’s and doesn’t know whether it wants to be a thriller or a romance. It switches genres so much that I at times forgot that it focuses on a psychopath chasing her character. The coolest part of this film is seeing Las Vegas in 1969 but it doesn’t last long. Overall, definitely not one of her finest films but not the worst either I am sure.

The DVD box labels this film as PG-13 but I am not sure how that is since the film has a bunch of nude women dancing in the opening 30 minutes of the film. The DVD is presented in 16X9 full frame and in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. Since this film has never been released on DVD, you can thank Warner Archive again for this.  Like all Warner Archive films though, there are no special features included with this release but at least it is finally on DVD.

Premise: A homicidal maniac engages a frightened young woman in a deadly game of cat and mouse in this harrowing suspense thriller starring Raquel Welch. When Alan Morris (Luke Askew) guns down his estranged wife in cold blood, no one is more terrified than Michele (Welch), the Vegas showgirl Alan blames for turning his wife against him. Realizing that she’s the murderer’s next target, Michele begins a desperate game of hide-and-seek, hoping to elude Alan in the crowded streets of Los Angeles. After several near misses, the killer finally corners his elusive prey, leading to a showdown that ignites the screen in a blaze of fury. Filmed on location in several fabled Las Vegas and Los Angeles night spots, Flareup grabs your attention and never lets go. From its action-packed beginning to the sensational conclusion, it’ll keep you gasping.

Narrated by: Erik Thompson
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: A&E Home Video
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Episodes: 14
Running Time: 658 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

At the end of season five, “The Universe” series was thought to been done. But I guess there is always more to showcase when it comes to the unknown reaches of “The Universe”. Thanks to H2 (aka History 2) for producing this sixth season, I hope they continue to as well going forward. It is said that season 6 was even produced in 3D. But no idea why it was not release on 3D Blu-ray. I would have been all over that. I enjoyed this season just liked the past five but I wish it was longer than seven episodes, which is the shortest season to date.

There are fourteen episodes included in this season.  In “Catastrophes that Changed the Planets” focuses on the events that shaped our planets. “Nemesis: The Sun’s Evil Twin” explores the existence of Nemesis and it’s affects. “How the Solar System was Made” covers from the birth from a thin cloud of dust and gas. “Crash Landing on Mars” discusses a “what-if” scenario about the first manned mission to Mars. “Worst Days on Planet Earth” reveals new discoveries that might have plagued Earth in the past. “UFO: The Real Deal” focuses on our unknown visitors. “God and the Universe” takes a scientific journey to find God. “How Big, How Far, How Fast” turns to astronomers who attempt to push the size, distance and speed within our universe.

The following episodes were not aired prior to this release. “Our Place in the Milky Way” focusing on how much we don’t know about it. “Alien Sounds” examines the probability of sounds from outer space. “Deep Freeze” looks at the coldest places in the universe. “Microscopic Universe” focuses on a different sort of universe, one of subatomic particle and quantum physics. “Ride the Comet” focuses on the ancient belief of comets. Lastly there is “When Space Changed History”, which focuses many different theories including a number of cataclysms, including the Biblical flood of Noah and Epic of Gilgamesh.

The Blu-ray presentation it self is impressive. The season is spread out over three Blu-ray discs. The 1080p transfer looks fantastic as usual and the CGI in the season is very impressive. I was not 100% satisfied with the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track though, I thought it was good but lacking for a show that relies so much on its special effects. Lastly there is no special features on this set unfortunately.  If you are reading this H2, keep making this series and release this season in 3D, since it was shot in it.

Original Aired on: The History Channel
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: A&E Home Video
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Runing Time: 88 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I don’t know what it is about programs on The History Channel but I am total sucker. Especially about the cool topic like the creation of our world! And especially in 3D! This is not the first time The History Channel has released their specials in 3D, there was “WWII in 3D”, which was released earlier this year. Overall, I was entertained and also learned a little bit as well.

This special focused on everything about our world from the formation of the earth to the creation of life to the growth of civilization. The CGI is very impressive and works really well with the 3D. The visual effects really popped out and really sold the special for me.  I just wish that this wasn’t limited to two hours and lasted longer as a series. Though for what it is it definitely flies through 14 billion years of history quite well and still manages to keep your interest spiked.

There are no special features included on this release, so that is a little disappointing overall but they have the two hours so packed with information and entertainment, I barely realized. The only thing about this film that made me laugh is that it is called “History of the World in Two Hours” but only runs 88 minutes. But of course, it had to be adjusted for commercials on TV.  If anyone related to The History Channel reads this, please produce more specials in 3D, I have really enjoyed them thus far. It is a great way to take learning to the third dimension. In fact, I would actually love to see a full series in 3D like “The Universe”.

Directed by: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim
Starring: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim, Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, John C. Reilly, Will Forte
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Running Time: 94 minutes

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

Tim and Eric are definitely one of my favorite comedy duos. Ever since “Tom Goes to the Mayor, they have continued to make awkward comedy…cool! “Tim and Eric’s Awesome Show, Great Job!” was one of my favorites show on television and this movie is just a giant blown-up sketch and succeeds in all areas. The main and only real probably with this film is that it will not appeal to “non Tim and Eric” fans. It is mainstream to the point of production but not beyond that. I have seen this film many times and I find that each time I like it more and more. I look forward to seeing what they will come up with next…”Trillion Dollar Movie??”

“Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie’ is definitely the weirdest comedy of the year, no question. If you are a fan of long stretches of awkwardness and zany humor, this will be the film for you to check out. The basic premise for the movie is that they blow a billion dollars making a movie and escape Hollywood to go run a mall.  That’s about it. If you are looking for all the familiar faces from “Awesome Show”, you will see them but they are very minor. Palmer Scott playing the Shrim God, steals the show.  I don’t blame Tim and Eric for focusing on the bankable names in the movie like Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, John C. Reilly and Will Forte, especially since they all have worked with Tim and Eric before.

The Blu-ray presentation overall is impressive.  The video looks sharp but of course there is Tim and Eric’s trademark VHS-quality sketches as well. The sound is also good with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, but doesn’t really push it too much.   The Blu-ray combo pack also comes with a DVD and digital copy of the film.  I like this option in case I am at work and don’t have access to a DVD player or I am on the road and have the digital option.  I wish they would switch to digital streaming service, Ultraviolet though.

The special features are decent but I was hoping for a little more I think. There is a decent yet a bit restrained audio commentary track with Tim and Eric. There are eight deleted scenes, including a commercial for EZ Swords, and are worth checking out. There is about three improved extended scenes, which run about 20 minutes. “Good Evening S’Wallow Valley” is a basic behind-the-scenes promo but with a Tim and Eric twist. There is an incredibly awkward and long interview with Tim and Eric. “HDNet: A Look at Tim & Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie” is the typical Magnolia piece. The coolest feature has to be “Shim Dance Screensaver”, which runs content for almost five hours. Lastly there are a bunch of promo videos and trailers included.

Directed by: Joe D’amato, Charles B. Pierce, Paul Maslansky, Abel Ferrara
Starring: Tisa Farrow, Christina Lindberg, David Hess, Robert Quarry, Linda Blair
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Synapse Films
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Running Time: 225 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I just love the Blu-ray format. The “42nd Street Forever” series has been released before but over various different volumes on DVD. So what is “42nd Street Forever”? Well if you are a fan of grindhouse and exploitation films, then it is your new favorite Blu-ray! This is a best of collection that includes an amazing collection of vintage theatrical trailers. It combines the first two volumes of the series and even adds in with some all-new selections.

No matter what you are looking for sex, violence or monsters, this includes all that and a whole lot more. Being a born New Yorker, I remember walking the streets of the city and being intrigued with the infamous 42nd Street many years ago. Though, I wasn’t around from the late-’50s through the 1970s but thanks to Synapse Films we are able to experience a little piece through these trailers. What is even cooler about this release is that there is over three and a half hours of trailers from all over the world. So sit down get, get your popcorn and get ready to get your blown away with the charm of 42nd street.

Just to give you an idea of some of the trailers included are: The Flesh And Blood Show, The .44 Specialist, Ginger, The Grim Reaper, The Guy From Harlem, Hard Candy, Helga, Hells Angels On Wheels, Honky, I, A Woman, I Disremember Mama/Blood Spattered Bride, Invitation To Ruin, The Italian Stallion, Maid In Sweden, Mark Of The Witch, Ms. 45, Panorama Blue, The Pink Angels, The Pom Pom Girls, The Raiders Of Atlantis, Savage!, Savage Sisters, Secret Africa, Shocking Asia, Shogun Assassin, Spy In Your Eye, Street Girls, Sugar Hill, Super Fuzz, Supermanchu, Taboos Of The World, The Tale Of The Dean’s Wife, The Teacher, They Call Her One Eye, They Came From Beyond Space, The 3 Dimensions Of Greta, The Undertaker Ana His Pals, Welcome Home, Brother Charles, Werewolves On Wheels, When Women Had Tails, Wicked Wicked and Many More!

This release looks absolutely stunning in its remastered 1080p high definition transfer. Of course, some of the trailers are not the best quality but that is just expected especially with exploitation films. Just be warned, keep the kiddies (and maybe even wife’s) away because this is not afraid to offend you at all. If all that isn’t enough, there is also I hope that Synapse will release the future volumes on Blu-ray as well or at least continue to release the films from these trailers on Blu-ray. Keep it up Synapse you guys have never disappointed yet.

Starring: Frank Sinatra
Number of discs: 10
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: April 3, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love “ol’ blue eyes”? Frank Sinatra is a true Hollywood legend. He did it all, singer…actor…all around superstar. Unlike some musicians who decide to act, Frank actually has the chops and is an Academy Award Winner. This collection includes ten of his signature films, which cover the basis of Sinatra’s acting career. This set has got everything from musicals to dramas to action-adventures and just completely captures the phenomenal range and talent of this amazing man.

The 10 films are: The Pride And The Passion / Kings Go Forth / A Hole In The Head / Can-Can / The Manchurian Candidate (1962) / Von Ryan’s Express / Cast A Giant Shadow / Tony Rome / The Detective / Lady In Cement.  Some of my favorites are Oscar nominees like “Can-Can” and “The Manchurian Candidate”.  “A Hole in the Head” is another classic directed by Frank Capra and is an Academy Award winner for Best Music/Song.    This set has seriously got it all, I just love its range.  The aspect ratios of each film slightly differ but they are still sharp and very impressive.

The film collection consists of two volumes and packaging is very impressive.  Sometimes with box sets, they are just bare bones but these really are impressive with great images and all around classy release just like Frank himself. All Thanks to Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment for releasing this great collection.  Even if you have never seen a single Sinatra movie, this will be a great introduction into his film career.  Of course, upon first look at this set my wife’s first comment was “Wait, no ‘On The Town'”.  Though there is still enough great entertainment here to satisfy your fix of Sinatra.

Directed by: Herve de Crecy, Francois Alaux
Starring: Radek Bruna and Mark Ivanir
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: New Video
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 25 minutes

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

A live-action “Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon” film…where do I sign up. This film is a sharp and fantastic attempt to showcase the charm of this series. The only bad thing about short film is that it is a ‘short film’, I would have loved to seen this go feature length. This film will be put out to time with the release of Ubisoft’s “Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Future Soldier” video game for Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation 3. The film is produced by Little Minx aka Ridley Scott, so you know that you are not getting some cheesy low-budget action. This film contains some great action and impressive CGI. New Video also released last year the brilliant “Assassin’s Creed: Lineage”, live-action prequel as well. What’s next guys? We want more!!??

If you are aware of the “Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon” franchise, you will know that the ghosts are the world’s most highly trained and lethal soldiers. This film is a specifically a prequel to the new video game “Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Future Soldier”. It focuses on what happens when the Ghosts are dropped behind behind lines in hopes to eliminate one of the world’s biggest terrorists. This film also boasts the amazing cinematography from Trent Opaloch, known best for his work on “District 9”.

This release not only comes with a Blu-ray disc but also a DVD disc as well. The video looks great in its high-def 1080p transfer. The audio is also very impressive and packed with a fantastic score. There are only two special features but they are very impressive and worth the purchase of this film alone. There is 30 minute making-of featurette, which is longer than the film itself and really dives into all aspects including the special effects, the production and even the score. Lastly there is the 2010 Comic-Con teaser included. If you are fan of the series, this is a must purchase.