3D Blu-ray Reviews “3D Magic Forest & Mystic Mountains”

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.

Blu-ray Review “The Devil Inside”

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.

DVD Review “Flareup”

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.

Blu-ray Review “The Universe: The Complete Season Six”

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.

3D Blu-ray Review “History of the World in Two Hours”

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”.

Blu-ray Review “Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie”

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.

Blu-ray Review “42nd Street Forever: The Blu-ray Edition”

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.

DVD Review “The Frank Sinatra Film Collection”

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.

Blu-ray Review “Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Alpha”

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.

DVD Review “95 Miles to Go”

Directed by: Tom Caltabiano
Starring: Ray Romano, Tom Caltabiano
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Video Services Corp.
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 79 minutes

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

With a tagline like “1000 Miles. 8 Days. 7 Cities. 2 Friends. 1 Car. Never Again”, the film sets itself up for a wild ride. Well it delivers for the most-part. The film definitely feels aged, since it was original released back in 2006 and premiered on HBO back in July of 2007. I am a big sucker for Ray Romano though, I am not sure if it is his unique voice or sense of humor but I have always liked his work. This behind-the-scenes documentary on his comedy tour delivers some good laughs, though I actually enjoyed the special features much more than I did the feature itself.

This film follows Ray Romano and Tom Caltabiano as they travel for through eight-day drive on a stand-up comedy tour. The film is a raw look behind the scenes at Ray’s road to bringing his comedy to the stage and Tom being featured as his opening act. We see the real aspects of touring dealing with Ray’s obsessions, phobias, and insecurities. Since this a filmed a long time ago, it is a dated since Ray’s career has survived way past his days on “Everybody Love Raymond” though it is still for the most part entertaining.

The special features is where this release really shines. The film only lasts 79 minutes but there is tons of great additional footage. There is a full 30 minute set for “Ray’s Kansas City Stand-Up Show”. There are two Q&A sessions from South by Southwest. There is a video commentary with both Ray and Tom. There are two commentary tracks included from director Tom Caltabiano, composer Adam Gorgoni, cinematographer Roger Lay Jr. and editor Cheyenne Pesko. There are a bunch of deleted and extended scenes included as well, definitely worth checking out. Lastly there is a photo gallery and theatrical trailer also included.

DVD Review “Newlyweds”

Directed by: Edward Burns
Starring: Edward Burns, Max Baker, Kerry Bishe, Caitlin Fitzgerald
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: New Video
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 96 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Edward Burns is known for his love of New York and shooting movies in New York, since his first film “The Brothers McMullen”. This film was release as part of Tribeca Film and was shot all in that neighborhood. I give him credit for staying true to his roots but writing, directing and starring in the film proved to be a bit much. He definitely gets props for attempting all three jobs though. The film feels a little long and characters get drab and repetitive after only a short time. I also wasn’t really sure of the film’s direction with switching between its docu-narrative story.

“Newlyweds” follows the a newly married couple and finding the truth behind marriage. The couple think they have a perfect drama free relationship until their whole world quickly gets turned upside down. When the husbands’ wild little sister shows up out of the blue, she creates a lot a problems for the couple. On top of that the wife, is dealing with the failing marriage her sister. The couple strive to fight through this madness and try to come out on top.

The special features are not amazing but worth checking out if you enjoyed the film. There are about six minutes of deleted scenes included. There are also two different interviews with Edward Burns. The first talks about his inspiration behind “Newlyweds” and is presented by American Express. The second interview focuses on Burns’ filmmaking process and long-standing relationship with Tribeca Film.  The interviews are interesting and give some decent insight into Burns’ process and background on the film itself.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Rampart”

Directed by: Oren Moverman
Starring: Woody Harrelson, Robin Wright, Steve Buscemi, Sigourney Weaver, Ben Foster, Ned Betty, Anne Heche, Ice Cube
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Millennium Entertainment
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Running Time Time: 107 minutes

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

Woody Harrelson is one hell of an underrated actor. He needs some props because the man can deliver an intense performance. This film is dark and gritty and he nails his role as an cop ready to burst. The supporting cast in the film is very notable including Anne Heche, Ben Foster, Ice Cube, Ned Betty, Sigourney Weaver, Robin Wright, Steve Buscemi. Some of them have small roles but overall they are all great and add to this ensemble. The film is a little slow moving overall and backed by fantastic cast and performances, it doesn’t really win my praise as entertaining.

The story follows Officer Dave Brown (Harrelson) who follows his own code of law and somethings takes things a little too far.   Brown is not only dealing with his complicated family issues, but also investigators at his precinct .  He falls head first into a downward spiral of bad situations following a brutal unnecessary beating of a civilian. Overall great acting, decent movie.

The film gritty itself but the Blu-ray is sharp and delivers its 1080p transfer well. The audio is also impressive packing a whopping Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track. The extras are like a film a little bit a let down. Oren Moverman delivers a decent audio commentary. There are a few cast/crew interviews also included, with a cast like this it is worth checking out. Lastly there is a decent behind-the-scenes featurette included. Overall decent but nothing spectacular.

 

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DVD Review “Happiness Is…Peanuts: Team Snoopy”

MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: May 1, 2012
Running Time: 48 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I love Peanuts as much as the next person but this DVD release is aimed at sports, which is not my favorite subject.  This is also the 4th DVD in the “Happiness Is…Peanuts” series, though unfortunately not the best one.  Still watchable if you are a fan of Peanuts and definitely recommended if you like sports and Peanuts.

The DVD only runs a short 48 minutes.  The special included is this DVD is called “Lucy Must Be Traded, Charlie Brown”.  It is cute but when it comes down to it, I am not a sports fan even for cartoons.  Besides the special there is also a show section of “The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show” called “Snoopy’s Brother Spike”.  Whenever I think about Peanuts, I always think about their holiday episodes, which are always my favorites.  I am not sure what the next Peanuts special Warner Home Video will be releasing but I still will look forward to it.

Synopsis: Batter up with Peanuts and celebrate their greatest sports moments in this all-new collection. For Charlie Brown, a new baseball season equals new hopes of winning. Unfortunately, one player just isn’t measuring up, which makes the team decide that Lucy Must Be Traded, Charlie Brown. Then suit up for a triple-header of laughs with The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show. In The Pelicans, Charlie Brown gets stuck with mascot duties while Peppermint Patty is on the road to victory with her baseball team. Great Pumpkin finds the Peanuts gang visiting the bowling alley in hopes of teaching Charlie Brown a new sport with hilarious results, and it’s game on as the neighborhood cat meets his match when Snoopy’s older brother Spike trots into town. It’s time to catch the winning spirit and share these tales with your teammates, since happiness is what Team Snoopy is all about!

Happiness is… Peanuts ™: Team Snoopy is available on DVD on 5/1: http://bit.ly/IIUnNc
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DVD Review “Tom and Jerry: Around the World”

MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: May 1, 2012
Running Time: 170 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Watching Tom and Jerry cartoons is something I can just never turn down.  With this new DVD collection of episodes, it focuses on an “Around the World” theme.  Although it isn’t just traveling without our planet, there is a lot of adventures in outer space as well, which I enjoyed.  With the 22 episodes included, there is plenty of fun and crazy antics going on between our famous feline and mouse.

This collection like past ones are a mix of classic and new episodes.   Tom and Jerry cartoons are just so timeless that this show will never not be relevant.  Especially with the new “The Looney Tunes Show”, I would love to see a new reboot of “Tom and Jerry” as well. I love the fact that Warner Home Video has continuously been releasing these in themed packages.  I am curious to see what they are going to come up with next.

The episodes included are:  “Way-Off Broadway”, “Martian Mice”, “Medieval Menance”, “Abracadumb”, “The Million Dollar Cat”, “Din-O-sores”, “Invasion of the Body Slammers”, “I Dream of Meanie”, “Neapolitan Mouse”, “Kitty Hawked”, “Flamenco Fiasco”, “You’re Lion”, “Kangadoofus”, “Monkey Chow”, “Freaky Tiki”, “Monster Con”, “Royal Cat Nap”, “Spaced Out Cat”, “The Two Mouseketeers”, “Tom & Jerry in the Hollywood Bowl”, “Johann Mouse” and “Treasure Map Scrap”.

Premise: Tom and Jerry travel the globe by land, sea, and air in this collection of 22 hilarious adventures. From Broadway to outer space, hitch a ride with your favorite cat and mouse for non-stop fun and action. Whether the furry duo is running from an erupting volcano on a tropical island or conducting an orchestra in Hollywood, you can count on laughs the whole way. Sword fights, magic spells, and treasure maps fill these delightful escapades and will have you climbing on board for more expeditions. So grab your luggage and bring the entire family along for a boisterous trip around the world and beyond.

Tom and Jerry: Around the World available on DVD 5/1 http://bit.ly/HYoyUl
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3D Blu-ray Review “Underworld: Awakening”

Directors: Björn Stein, Måns Mårlind
Actors: Kate Beckinsale, Michael Ealy, India Eisley, Stephen Rea, Theo James
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Running Time: 88 minutes

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

What is great about “Underworld: Awakening” is that even if you haven’t seen any films in series, you can still watch this film. The opening scene sums up the whole series and catches you up to speed. So what can you expect for the fourth film in the series? Well, surprising quite a bit. This film has more of everything vampires, werewolves, action and even adds 3D to the mix.  It is action packed and most important boasts the return of the sexy yet deadly Selene. In fact out of all the film in the series, this is easiest my favorite!! So if you are reading this Sony…let’s get started on “Underworld 5”!!

Kate Beckinsale returns to the role of Selene (after skipping “Underworld: Rise of the Lycans”) and she is back with a vengeance.  She is honestly the most bad-ass female vampire/warrior ever to hit the screen.   In this installment, after being caught and confined for testing, she escapes only to find that the world has changed.  Humans have discovered about the existence of both the Vampire and Lycan clans.  The humans has started a war in order to remove both species. Things get a little more complicated when Selene finds out that she has a daughter that she didn’t know about during the time she was held and she is the target of both species.

Let’s focus for a second on the film’s 3D.  This is one of my favorite live action 3D Blu-ray’s that I have seen seen.  Most live-action 3D Blu-ray are said to be darker, this one puts that statement to rest.  The film itself just uses the 3D so well, holds a constant depth and also rocks out with the film’s constant action. This all goes along well with the film’s amazing 1080p transfer and 2.40:1 aspect ratio.  So, this film not only looks amazing it also sounds even better.  Sony packed this Blu-ray with a super impressive DTS-HD MA 7.1 track and really pushes the format to the max.  This film also comes with a standard Blu-ray and DVD of the film, as well as an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy.

The special features like the film are also very impressive. Firstly there is a massive commentary track with directors Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, producers Richard Wright and Gary Lucchesi, executive producer and visual effects supervisor James McQuaide.  Everything is covered her from proudction to effects, very highly recommended.  “Selene Rises” focuses on the return of Kate Beckinsale playing Selene. “Casting the Future of Underworld” looks at the series new player, Theo James and India Eisley and plans for future installments. “Resuming the Action” talks about shooting in 3D and creating the film’s amazing action sequences.  “Building a Better Lycan” showcases the plans to create better werewolf visuals for this installment.  “Awakening a Franchise, Building a Better World” is a general making-of featurette and also touches on revamping this series. “Previsualization Sequences” are exclusive to the Blu-ray 3D release and includes six scenes.  Lastly there is a Blooper Reel and Music Video for “Heavy Prey” by Lacey Sturm Feat. Geno Lenardo.

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