Directed by: Jay Andrews
Starring: C. Thomas Howell, Brian Krause
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
DVD Release Date: March 27, 2012
Running Time: 84 minutes

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

With a tagline “They really get under your skin”, right off the bat this one sounds like a winner. To top it off it is from Executive Producer, the legendary Roger Corman. So we are off to a great start. Well the film is cheesy like expected about large killer camel spiders but it is very entertaining as well. Roger Corman has recently produced some really fun creatures like “Dinoshark”, “Shartopus” and “Mega Piranha”. This film does it job, it has fun and kicks some decent ass. What is even creepier is that camel spiders are real, unlike “Dinoshark” or “Sharktopus”.

The film starts off in the deserts of the Middle East, where a platoon of soldiers are being terrorized by giant arachnids called Camel Spiders. They accidentally transport these terrors to a small-town in the American southwest. It is up to an Army Captain (Brian Krause) and the local Sheriff (C. Thomas Howell) to help a group of locals and tourists survive and find a way to defeat these cratures. The director Jay Andrews is also known for recent creature feature “Dinocroc vs. Supergator”. He definitely has found his calling with these films and delivers two out of two.

I have learned that with these low budget creature features you just have to enjoy them for what they are. This packs some decent creature effects, obviously CG but still decent and also packs some decent kills. The video on the Blu-ray is decent boasting its sharp 1080p resolution. It also packs a decent Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track. Unfortunately there are no special features included in this Blu-ray.

Directed by: Mike Flanagan
Starring: Katie Parker, Courtney Bell, Dave Levine, Doug Jones
Distributed by: Phase 4 Films
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 91 minutes

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

Phase 4 Films definitely has a hit on their hands with this little gem. I honestly have never heard of this film, despite being a horror buff. The film has won over 20 awards at various film festival. What makes this interesting is that it has a unique story, it has some great scares and also surprising twists throughout the film. It is rare that a horror film really stands out among the many, many others but this one does it and deserve some attention. Horror fans will also be delighted to that Doug Jones (“Pan’s Layrinth” and “Hellboy” series) co-stars in the film. I am looking forward to see what Mike Flanagan does next as now he is officially on my radar.

The film follow two sisters Tricia (Parker) and Callie (Bell). Callie comes to stay with Tricia, who’s husband Daniel (Levine) has been missing for seven years. Tricia is planning on officially reporting her husband as dead, when she starts to have visions of him. Callie finds herself drawn to a creepy tunnel that she’s meets a homeless man (Jones) who is mysteriously shocked that she can see him. Callie finds that the man has been reported missing years ago also like Tricia’s husband. Strange things continue to occur to the sisters until Daniel, out of the blue, shows up at the house after seven years missing and no account of the time. Callie believes that strange supernatural forces might be at work here and tries to investigate the mysterious tunnel and the weird happenings. The sisters might have gotten too deep into this whole situation as the mystery draws them in.

The special features are very impressive and come stocked. First of all there are two commentary tracks. The first is a producer commentary with Morgan Peter Brown, Mike Flanagan, Joe Wicker and Justin Gordon, which focuses on the film’s production and the goal of making a horror film on a low budget. Next up is a really fun jam packed commentary track with director/producer Mike Flanagan and the film’s stars Katie Parker, Courntey Bell, Dave Levine and Doug Jones. Next up, there is a very extensive behind the scenes documentary “Absentia: A Retrospective”, which runs just over 30 minutes. There are about five minutes of deleted scenes, worth checking out but nothing special. There is a “Camera Test Teaser”, which was shot to evaluate the effectiveness of shooting in Canon 5d. Lastly there is also the film’s trailer included.

Directed by: Brett Ratner
Starring: Ben Stiller, Mathew Broderick, Eddie Murphy, Alan Alda, Casey Affleck
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Release Date: February 21, 2012
Running Time: 104 minutes

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

At first view of this film, I really had no interest in seeing it at all. My wife on the other hand nudged me into seeing it. I actually happened to enjoy it quite a bit. I mean with a cast like Ben Stiller, Mathew Broderick, Eddie Murphy, Alan Alda and Casey Affleck…it would have to be good. Each actors really shines and delivers a great performance. Well the film has some faults but definitely packs the comedy as well as the action. Especially the film gets started, which takes about a solid 40 minutes, that’s when it really shines. When I was watching I couldn’t help but compare this to “Ocean’s Eleven” but in a apartment complex. Although not as good as that film, it still deliver a very entertaining experience.

The follows Josh Kovacs (Stiller) who is the manager of “The Tower”, which is a high-profile apartment location in Manhattan. His job is to make sure that the tower’s residents are perfectly accommodated, including financier Arthur Shaw (Alan Alda). Though Shaw gets arrested by the FBI for investing fraud. Kovacs realizes that his staff’s pensions are gone since he asked Shaw to manage them. He confronts Shaw and ends up loosing his job. Kovas devises a plan to help his staff by planning to rob Shaw’s hidden money of $20 million dollars. In order to do that he recruits a motley crew group (including Matthew Broderick, Casey Affleck, Michael Peña, Gabourey Sidibe, and Eddie Murphy). Of course things go array on the groups plans and issues arise.

The Blu-ray presentation and package are great. The color are very sharp and really detailed. The audio is also very impressive with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track especially during the heist scenes. Includes in this release besides the Blu-ray, is a DVD copy of the film as well. There is also an Ultraviolet streaming digital copy of the film. Some more great features on this Blu-ray include the “U-Control Experience” which includes a Picture-in-Picture experience and a “Music of Tower Heist” feature. Also if you have an iPad/tablet, PC or Mac you can take advantage of the “Second Screen Interactive Experience”.

The special features are quite impressive for this release. There is a funny yet very informative audio commentary with director Brett Ratner, editor Mark Helfrich and co-writers Ted Griffin and Jeff Nathanson. “Brett Ratner’s Video Diary” is a very in-depth look inside the production with the director, pretty cool footage included also. “Plotting Tower Heist” is a six part behind-the-scenes documentary, which runs about 45 minutes. The parts are split up into the following: “The Ratner/Grazer Connection, Parts One, Two and Three,” “The Conspirators,” “Set Pieces” and “The Car.” There are a bunch of additional footage including two alternate endings, the first called “15 Months Later” and second called “Lester’s Bar,” which should have made the final cut for sure! There are nine deleted/alternate scenes, which run just over 5 minutes are a hit or miss. Lastly there is a funny gag reel included to top off the great features.

Starring: Talking Heads
MPAA Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Eagle Rock Entertainment
Run Time: 109 minutes

Our Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

“We want to make our mark on music history.”
~ Tina Weymouth, Talking Heads bassist, 1979

For Tina to have expressed this wish within the context of an interview is not really all that surprising given the success that Talking Heads had already achieved in the four short years following their inception in 1975. But what IS surprising is where the interview took place – not in the basement bowels of NYC’s legendary CBGB’s or a “new wave” club, but on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand.

“Talking Heads: Chronology” allows the viewer to see this clip of bizarrely juxtaposed elements as well as 17 others, most of which are previously unreleased. These excepts range from their early beginnings as a CBGB’s-based trio all the way up to a 1983 clip from Saturday Night Live as well as a spot-on performance of “Life During Wartime” from the 2002 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Overall, “Chronology” is an amazing compilation of archival footage that allows us to see the development of a band that was clearly making its mark on music history from square one.

What’s even better about the disc is the optional commentary track that features all four Heads – David Byrne, Chris Frantz, Tina Weymouth and Jerry Harrison. It’s a joy to hear each of them reacting to their younger selves, reflecting on the group’s musical journey and sharing amusing behind-the-scenes stories and bits of trivia. The only minor issue with the track is that each band member’s comments were recorded separately, so it lacks what undoubtedly would have been great banter between the long-estranged band mates had they been in the same room. Regardless, this secondary track adds a level of depth to the collection of clips and helps to make “Chronology” markedly more substantial than most music video DVD compilations.

The disc also includes a 35-minute segment from 1979 that is culled from the London-based “South Bank Show”. This – almost more than the 18 music clips – is essential viewing. The interviews with the band members provide tremendous insight into what made Talking Heads a truly great band and the rehearsal footage shows the unique dynamic of a group that could instantly lock into their own groovy vibe and let the strange and wonderful wizardry happen. It’s also full of truly endearing moments such as Jerry Harrison’s creative solution to forgetting a rhythm guitar line: pulling out a copy of the studio album that the track appeared on, dropping the needle into the vinyl and playing along with it. The entire South Bank segment is quite riveting and really should have been integrated into and prefaced the main content of the DVD. Unfortunately, it’s been relegated to merely being a bonus feature that most viewers are likely to skip over and never see. The other bonus feature, a David Byrne interview from 1978, doesn’t really offer up anything that isn’t covered in the South Bank segment – save for proving that Byrne can handle the noxious haze generated by a chain-smoking interviewer without coughing or decking him.

As one could reasonably expect, the DVD’s overall image quality is variable as a result of the source material and is presented in 4:3 aspect ratio.  The archival clips, however, sound amazingly good: the disc’s Dolby Digital 2.0 audio is quite dynamic and punchy (only the two CBGB’s clips from 1975 are a bit distorted and thin).  The DVD is available in two editions: a standard-issue disc and a deluxe edition that adds a 48-page hardcover book featuring an essay by Lester Bangs.

“Chronology” is a wonderfully-crafted gem that shines not only as a vital supplement to any established Heads fan’s collection but as a great introduction for generations that may have completely missed out on the band’s musical magic. It’s clear that the creators of this DVD very much love the group that the project chronicles and aren’t just out to make a quick buck from nostalgia seekers. But, more so, they know and truly appreciate the fact that truly amazing artists like Talking Heads only come around once in a lifetime.

Directed by: Mark Pellington
Starring: Thomas Jane, Jeremy Piven, Rob Lowe, Christian McKay, Carla Gugino, Arielle Kebbel
Distributed by Magnolia Pictures
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 129 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“I Melt for You” is a complete rip-off of “The Hangover” but a lot darker and more grim. The film starts off real well but then after 45 minutes nothing really happens until the end where it feels really rushed. I feel there was little direction for the story and it caused the film to drag in the second act. The film literally can be trimmed at least 30 minutes, 129 minutes is just too long..  The film does get some great performances from the cast but it is not enough to save this indie.

The film follows four former college buddies (Jeremy Piven, Rob Lowe, Thomas Jane, Christian McKay) who reunite for a weekend of drugs and partying. After coming down from their high, the group start to realize that they are not the same people that they were in college. It turns out that each man has dark secrets that once revealed will change the mood of the weekend and the rest of their lives.

The only thing this film has going for it is it fantastic cast. Jeremy Piven, Rob Lowe, Thomas Jane and Christian McKay, who all give really intense dramatic performances. The Blu-ray presentation is a not super impressive. Even though it is an indie film, the video is not really up to Blu-ray standard, not terrible but just not impressive. The sound packs a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track which works well with the film’s music soundtrack.

Until the film itself, the special features are actually quite impressive. There are two commentary tracks included on this Blu-ray. The first features Mark Pellington, Rob Lowe and Jeremy Piven and is quite entertaining. The second commentary track features Mark Pellington (again), screenwriter Glenn Porter, and cinematographer Eric Schmidt. It takes a more technical turn into the film’s production. There almost 20 minutes of deleted scenes included, some worth watching. There is a decent length behind-the-scenes featurette, which runs just short of a half and hour. Like all Magnolia releases there an HDNet feature “A Look at I Melt with You”, nothing special just an extended promo.

Even though those features above are good my favorites are the following extras. There are one-on-one interviews with Mark Pellington and Jeremy Piven. Pellington’s interview runs almost 40 minutes and is very extensive. “Jeremy Piven Mood Piece” is an interesting collection of clips narrated by Piven. “Thomas Jane Teaser” is an elaborate monologue, which just secures what a character Jane really is. I can honestly watch/listen to Thomas Jane all day long. Lastly there is a whole punch of photo galleries and trailers from the film, rounding up great extras.

Related Content

• Blu-ray Review “Appleseed XIII: Tartaros & Ouranos”
• Blu-ray Review “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters”
• Blu-ray Review “Pain & Gain”
• Blu-ray Review “Oblivion”
• Blu-ray Review “The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day (Director’s Cut)”

Directed by: Jeff Kanew
Starring: Will Sasso, Ian Ziering, Kristanna Loken, Sophie Monk, Rip torn, Tony Cox
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Image Entertainment
Release Date: March 20, 2012
Running Time: 91 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

Recently when I see that a film that is presented by National Lampoon, I would steer clear. It definitely doesn’t have the same reputation it did back in the “Animal House” and “Vacation” series days. This film is different though and delivers some really funny laughs.  Don’t get it wrong it is stupid as shit but for some reason I found it entertaining, probably few will agree.  It also packs a reallygreat cast including Will Sasso, Ian Ziering, Kristanna Loken, Sophie Monk, Rip Torn and Tony Cox. Will Sasso is just so over-the-top, it is great and makes me count down the days till “The Three Stooges”. Ian Ziering known best for his role in “Beverly Hills, 90210”, really branches out playing the mighty warrior Testiclees…yes that’s this name.

In case you are wondering about the director, Jeff Kanew, he is known best for directing the classic comedy film “Revenge of the Nerds”. In case the cover art doesn’t describe it enough this film is a spoof of films like “Gladiator”, “Troy”, “Alexander” and of course “300”. The film is very raunchy and most of the jokes really land on their feet. If you are a fan of Will Sasso, then there is no way you won’t like this film as he gets a chance to shine in the starring role.

The film follows Awesomest Maximus (Will Sasso) who is a general of Troy but is not the sharpest tool in the shed. Awesomest gets put on duty to accompany King Looney’s (Rip Torn) only son Orlando (Gary Lundy) on a mission to Greece. Orlando ends up stealing the wife of King Erotic (Khary Payton), Princess Ellen (Sophie Monk) to be his wife.  Get it Ellen of Troy? This of course does not go well and provokes a war between Troy and Greece.

The Blu-ray presentation is decent but nothing special. The video looks clear and sharp. Though the audio track is lacking and is basically the equivalent for DVD standards. The special features are non-existent with only the theatrical trailer included. There is also a the bonus trailer for the another spoof film “Division III: Football’s Finest”.  Disappointing since this is a really funny film.  Would have loved to see a gag reel or at least some behind the scenes featurettes.

Directed by: Ben Affleck
Starring: Ben Affleck, Rebecca Hall, Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, Blake Lively
MPAA Rating: R (Theatrical) / Not Rated (Extended)
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: March 6, 2012
Running Time: 125 minutes (Theatrical) / 153 minutes (Extended)

Overall Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Before reading this review, if you have never seen this film…stop reading and go out to the store and by this release. It is simple as that. This film was one of my favorite films of 2010. This Ultimate Collector’s Edition Blu-ray is the perfect set release for this amazing film. “The Town” is most definitely going to become a classic like other robbery films like “Dog Day Afternoon” and “The Italian Job”. Ben Affleck does a flawless job not only directing but also acting, easily the best work he has done to date.

This new 3-disc (2 Blu-ray, 1 DVD) release feature a a new cut of the film including an alternate ending with audio commentary available as well. It is actually the third cut of the film and is even different from the recent extended cut. There is also an amazing 30 minute documentary called “Director’s Journey”. If that is not enough this release comes with amazing packaging and really cool goodies. There is a 48-page book filled with high quality photos. There is a letter from director Ben Affleck.  There is a huge poster-size map of Charlestown with notes from the film.  Wait…there is still more…including a confidential folder packed with a fifteen-page FBI report, four mugshot cards, a Vericom employee file and a sheet of rub-on tattoos. I think they went above and beyond with these extras.  It is very impressive and a great collectable for fans.

The video quality of the Blu-ray are just perfect and so clear.  I think they really put a lot into this film and it shows for sure.   The audio also comes packed with a fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track.  You literally feel like you are being caught in the gun fire throughout the film.  Really top notch.  Here is a break down of the discs included in this release. The first Blu-ray comes with the new extended cut with alternate ending on its own Blu-ray. The second Blu-ray has the other extended up and the theatrical cut. There is also a DVD included as well.  Also included is a streaming Ultraviolet digital copy, which will be added to my Flixster account immediately.

Let’s get to some of the special features now.  This release has no shortage of commentary tracks, in fact, it comes with three.  The first is for the theatrical cut of the film and Ben Affleck does a wonderful job of complementing the film in a very entertaining commentary.  The next is the extended cut audio commentary is similar to the theatrical cut but gets into the meat of the extra footage.  Like I mentioned above, this release also features a new commentary for the extended cut with alternate ending.  It is an extension of the extended commentary track.  Too much commentary for you? I do not think so.  Definitely at least give a listen to the commentary for the alternate ending for some great info about the changes.

“The Town: A Director’s Journey” is a new documentary for this release and it runs about 30 minutes.  It dives a lot into the film’s production and you get a lot of Ben Affleck but if you love the film then you would love this.  “Ben’s Boston” Focus Points run about 30 minutes spread out among six behind-the-scenes featurette. They are able to be played during watching the film.  The featurettes  include “Pulling Off the Perfect Heist,” “The Town,” “Nuns with Guns: Filming in the North End,” “The Real People of the Town,” “Ben Affleck: Director & Actor” and “The Cathedral of Boston.” The next feature is so simple but I really like it, which is an “Extended Cut Scene Indicator”.  It features an icon on the screen when there is new footage from the theatrical version of the film.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer also included. Amazing features + Amazing movie = Amazing release.

Buy It 3/6 on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack with UltraViolet Digital Copy http://bit.ly/yMSmoe
Like us on Facebook – http://on.fb.me/TheTownFB
Follow us on Twitter – http://bit.ly/WBHETW

Synopsis: Ben Affleck follows his acclaimed Gone Baby Gone directorial debut by directing, co-writing and starring in a taut thriller about robbers and cops, friendship and betrayal, love and hope and escaping a past that has no future. He plays Doug MacRay, leader of a Boston bank robber gang but not cut from the same cloth as his fellow thieves. When Doug falls into a passionate romance with the bank manager (Rebecca Hall) briefly taken hostage in their last heist, he wants out of this life and out of the town. As the Feds close in and the crew questions his loyalty, he has one of two choices: betray his friends or lose the woman he loves. Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner, Blake Lively, Titus Welliver, Pete Postlethwaite and Chris Cooper also star.

Directors: Nick Willing
Actors: Rhys Ifans, Charlie Rowe, Anna Friel, Bob Hoskins and Keira Knightley
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Vivendi Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 13, 2012
Run Time: 169 minutes

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

This film has a lot of positive traits right from the start.  It has one of the best casts in Syfy mini-series including Rhys Ifans (“Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1”, “The Amazing Spider-Man”), Anna Friel (“Pushing Daisies”), Bob Hoskins (“Snow White And The Huntsman”, “Hook”), Keira Knightley “Pride & Prejudice”, “Pirates Of The Caribbean” series). and Charlie Rowe (“Never Let Me Go”, “Pirate Radio”).  Secondly it is directed by Nick Willing, who’s recent work includes the fantastic mini-series “Alice” and “Tin Man”.  Lastly it is a never-before-told origin story based on J.M. Barrie’s beloved classic fairytale “Peter Pan”. This film delivers and takes you on a wonderful fantasy adventure for the whole family.

“Neverland” follows a young pickpocket named Peter (Rowe), his group of “lost boys”, and their leader Jimmy Hook (Ifans). The group is transported to a magical place called “Neverland” when they encounter a strange orb while on a hit. They meet the leader pirate, Elizabeth Bonny (Friel), who has ruled the seas of Neverland for nearly two centuries, who also wants her hands on the orb. Hook is enchanted by her ways and joins her team. Peter and his group are left to fight for what is right and ends up in a war Bonny and his friend Hook.

The Blu-ray presentation is very impressive and works well with the film’s special effects. The audio track is also great packing a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track.  The special features are decent and start with a great commentary track from Nick Willing. “The Story Behind The Story” features a bunch of interviews Rhys Ifans, Anna Friel, Charlie Rowe, Raoul Trujillo, Bob Hoskins and director Nick Willing, “Green, Screen to Scene: Journey Into ‘Neverland” shows the films journey through production. “Art Gallery” includes various storyboards from the film. Lastly “Neverland: Access All Areas” takes us behind the scenes on this production.

Directed by: Drake Doremus
Starring: Felicity Jones, Anton Yelchin
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Studio: Paramount Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 6, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“Like Crazy” starts off very well and draws you into the story and its characters but then leaves you very disappointed. I would have love to see more a better conclusion with this film. I am not sure if it just lost direction or focus. The romance is strong in the beginning but then looses its spark quickly. The acting though is superb and includes great performances from Felicity Jones and Anton Yelchin.

The film follows the first real love between a British college student (Felicity Jones) and her American classmate (Anton Yelchin). During a short period the couple falls deep in love and are inseparable. When she violates her visa in order to stay a few more weeks before returning home, the real challenges are presented to the couple. They are unable to reunite due to issues with her re-entering the US due to visa issues. From there the couple needs to find how strong there relationship is and what they need to do to stay together.

The only special feature included on the DVD is a commentary track by director Drake Doremus, editor Jonathan Alberts and cinematographer John Guleserian. Worth a listen if you enjoyed the film otherwise passable. the Blu-ray contains a bunch more special features including deleted and alternate scenes both with pptional commentary.

Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Starring: Ben Kingsley, Asa Butterfield, Chloë Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Richard Griffiths, Frances de la Tour, Ray Winstone, Emily Mortimer, Jude Law, Christopher Lee
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures
Release date: February 28, 2012
Running time: 128 minutes

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

“Hugo” is a very enchanting tale with amazing storytelling.  It is really rare that you watch a film and it takes you on a two hour journey.  At the 2012 Oscars, “Hugo” was awarded five Academy Awards for Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing and Best Sound Mixing. I felt that it also deserved the Best Director and Best Picture awards as well. I feel that Scorsese did an amazing job with this picture. This film gets better and better which each viewing and looks spectacular on Blu-ray.

The film follows Hugo Cabret (Asa Butterfield) who lives in a Paris train station. He lives to maintains its clocks and roams within in the walls and above the trains platforms. He has no family since his father’s death and his uncle, station’s timekeeper, who took his in and then vanished. Hugo has only one thing left from his father, a mechanical person, who was created to write independently but needs a special key to do so. Hugo wants to find that key in hope to find a message from his late father. He meets Isabelle (Chloë Grace Moretz) and the two embark on an unexpected journey.

The Blu-ray presentation is just absolutely flawless. The 1080p video conversion is absolutely perfect. The colors are extremely sharp and showcases this film’s amazing cinematography perfectly. The audio boasts a fantastic DTS-HD MA 7.1 track. It also works very well with Howard Shore’s score, which is so perfectly intertwined within the film. Also included in the Blu-ray combo pack is with a DVD copy of the film. They also include an Ultraviolet copy of the film, which is a great feature. The film works well in 2D but I feel that it loses a lot of the atmosphere created from the 3D version. I definitely prefer the 3D version over the 2D version.

The special features are great but are lacking a commentary track from Martin Scorsese and cast. The first feature is called “Shoot the Moon (The Making of Hugo)”, it runs about twenty minutes and includes great both cast and crew discussing the film and its production. “The Cinemagician, Georges Méliès” focuses on the filmmaker and his role in this film. “The Mechanical Man at the Heart of Hugo” is an informative feature that focuses on the history of automaton and its use in the film. “Big Effects, Small Scale” it is a brief look at the film’s effects, I would have loved for this to be a lot longer since the effects are critical in this film. Lastly there is a short piece about the Station Inspector, called “Sacha Baron Cohen: Role of a Lifetime”, short but sweet. Overall great features for a great film.

Directed by: Chris Miller
Starring: Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, Billy Bob Thornton, Amy Sedaris, Zeus Mendoza, Constance Marie, Guillermo del Toro, Bob Joles
Distributed by:Paramount Pictures
Release date: February 24, 2012
Running time: 90 minutes

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

When this film was released in the theaters, I had no interest in seeing it. I saw all of the “Shrek” films and I thought that each one was worse than the last. I have always thought that Puss in Boots was one of my favorite characters and it is great to see him get his solo story. Well when I watch this film on Blu-ray, I really enjoyed it. I thought it was so well-done, it was very sharp and funny. I thought the trailers for “Puss in Boots” didn’t capture any of the film charm. I really think this stands alone from the “Shrek” franchise and really entertains. I would love to see more installments from this series.

The story serves as an origin story for Puss in Boots. Puss (voiced by Antonio Banderas) works with his old schoolmate Humpty Dumpty (voiced by Zach Galifianakis) and female feline Kitty Softpaws (voiced by Salma Hayek) as they chase down criminals Jack and Jill (voiced by Billy Bob Thornton and Amy Sedaris). They are in search of magic beans which will create a beanstalk to the clouds.  Up the beanstalk, there is a castle which contains the legendary golden goose who lays golden eggs.

The Blu-ray presentation is absolutely spectacular. The 1080p Blu-ray transfer is superb and looks so sharp and colorful. The film’s sound is also extremely notable boasting a fantastic Dolby TrueHD 7.1 lossless track. It works so well with the films action and music. The Blu-ray combo pack also comes packed with a DVD copy of the film and also a digital copy. It is not an Ultraviolet digital copy but still enjoyable to take the film on the road with you. I enjoyed the 2D version of this film but I still prefer the 3D much more, if you have the preference.

The special features on the disc are very impressive just like the film. Firstly it includes an all new adventure short called “Puss in Boots: The Three Diablos”. This runs about thirteen minutes, it is very fun and worth checking out. There are a few Blu-ray exclusive features, the first is called “A DreamWorks Fairy Tale”, an interactive feature to create your own rhymes. The second is called “Puss’ Paw Pouncing Challenge”, which is a fun game using the remote for the kids. “The Animators’ Corner”, which is a picture-in-picture feature with director Chris Miller and producers Joe Aguilar and Latifa Ouaou. It contains comparisons from storyboards and animation tests and an interesting look at the film’s production. It is a must-watch if you enjoyed the film. Lastly there is a trivia track which provides cool facts and information throughout the movie.

Some of the additional features included are “Purr-Fect Pairing: The Voices Behind the Legend”, which is a look into the voice work from Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, and Billy Bob Thornton. There are a three test deleted scenes including “Humpty Plots with Jack & Jill”, “Humpty Repays His Accomplices” and “Puss in Boots Fights the Giant”. “Kitten to Cat” is a feature with focus on the development of Puss in Boots’ character. “Glitter Box Dance Off!” focuses on the dance choreography from the film. “Klepto Kitty” follows Dusty, a real-life cat burglar. “Kitty Keyboard” includes feline versions of “3 Blind Mice”, “Humpty Dumpty”, “Jack and Jill”, and “Little Boy Blue”. “Fairytale Pop-Up Book” includes the ability to view your favorite scenes and lines from the film’s characters. “Kitty Strikes Again” is a fun ‘find the differences’ game for the kids. Lastly there is “World of DreamWorks Animation”, which includes trailer and music from other Dreamworks films.

Directed by: Martin Guigui
Starring: Dennis Quaid, Tony Oller, Aimee Teegarden, Devon Werkheisser, Brett Cullen
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Image Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 28, 2012
Running Time: 96 minutes

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

The only real draw to this film is Dennis Quaid playing one sick son-bitch. It is a role that he does not usually play and he does it really good in this film. Besides that this has nothing going for it. The suspense in the film is so tame that it comes off as non-existent. Although only run just over 90 minutes, the film drags quite a bit and its climax is a big let down as well. I would watch it if you are curious to see Quaid’s baddie turn otherwise I would avoid this film for sure.

This teen thriller follows a group of high school kids who believe that their local mortician is actually a vicious serial killer. Dennis Quaid plays Mr. Ely, the well-respected mortician.  The teens investigate his house his they believe it is haunted but they find out that the truth is much more evil than they expect. When the kids try and contact the police, they find out that no one will listen to them and side with Mr. Ely.  It is up to them to prove the truth before it is too late.

The Blu-ray presentation is ok but not great. The film is very dark and the video does an ok job of making it look decent. The sound is also decent but nothing special, especially since there was no “jump” moments, which is a major fault. The special features are also horrendous, only including one very short extra. The behind-the-scenes featurette runs just over two minutes and is a few short clips from the production. Also there is a trailer included, which gives away the whole movie.

Directed by: Ernesto Di­az Espinoza
Starring: Marko Zaror, Alejandro Castillo
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 28, 2012
Running Time: 88 minutes

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

“Mandrill” is a Spanish James Bond-esque movie. I did not expect that when I watched this but it was exactly what you got. The film is also a real ode to the 70’s grindhouse style action films. Mandrill is one bad-ass mother…shut your mouth. He packs some awesome martial arts moves and is not afraid to show off his skills. It is a mix of assassin film mixed with a revenge twist. The storyline is very campy and over-the-top but that is expected, though the action really takes the lead in this film.

The film follows Antonio “Mandrill” Espinoza who is a hired assassin with a deadly vengeance on the burner from when his parents were brutally murdered during his childhood. When Mandrill gets a job that would avenge his parents death, he looks at it as his final job. Although he gets a lot more than he bargains for when he falls for the target’s daughter.

The Blu-ray presentation is excellent boasting a sharp high-def video and impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. The video although shot in HD has a real grindhouse gritty feel on purpose. The fight scenes specifically both looked and sounded amazing. The extras though on the release was very disappointing. There is a brief less than three minute behind the scenes featurette. “Anatomy of a Fight Scene” lasted less than eight minutes and focused a a few of the film’s fight scenes and lastly there are some trailers included. They are all presented in standard definition and were way too short.

Related Content

• Tribeca Film Festival Review “Mansome”
• Blu-ray Review “The Divide”
• Blu-ray Review “The Big Year”
• DVD Review “Chop”
• Film Review “Pound of Flesh”

Directors: Michael Feifer
Actors: Val Kilmer, Shawn Roberts, Matt Dallas, Daniel Booko, Scott Whyte, Trace Adkins
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 6, 2012
Running Time: 93 minutes

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

When it comes to Westerns, the topic of Wyatt Earp is one of the most well-known. Although, this one lacks the real Western feel. If you are watching this primarily due tot the draw of Val Kilmer and Trace Adkins, like me, you will be disappointed as they have extremely small roles. Val Kilmer plays old and fat Wyatt Earp, with one of the worst fake mustaches in movie history. He tells the story, which leads to the flashback where the film takes place. Trace Adkins was in it so briefly I blinked almost missed him. Maybe it was a bad idea for me to watch this film the same day as the Clint Eastwood classic “Unforgiven”, only made it look that much worse.

The film is based off the true story recounted from legendary lawman, Earp, as he tells how he formed the best group of men to avenge the vicious murder of his love, Dora. The “best of the west” group was formed of Bat Masterson, Charlie Bassett, Bill Tilghman and Doc Holliday. The group heads after the Kenedy brothers, who are protected by their powerful father and are untouchable by the law. Of course they find out how far Earp and his posse will go to get revenge.

If you are looking special features, this will only disappoint you more. Since there is only one mega brief behind the scenes extra. “Riding Along with Wyatt Earp” runs a mere three minutes and includes on behind the scenes look and interviews with cast/crew. Overall it is too short and leaves you unsatisfied just like the film does.

Directed by: Sean Becker
Starring: Felicia Day, Jeff Lewis, Amy Okuda, Sandeep Parikh, Robin Thorsen
MPAA Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Distributed by: New Video
DVD Release Date: March 13, 2012
Running Time: 95 minutes

Season 5: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

Season 5 is the most ambitious yet for this fantastic web series and this DVD includes all 12 episodes uncut. The scale has been expanded well beyond the past seasons. The plot features the group going on a road trip to attend a video game convention, MegaGame-O-RamaCon. Even though they are at a gaming convention there is little video game playing and more focus is giving to individual characters and their plots. I really enjoyed the direction that this show is going in and with the up-scaled plot makes the show feel well beyond just a web series.

Felicia Day, who again wrote and starred in this season, mentioned that this season was her dream route to take the show to a new level. I think that the writing is much better and the performances from the cast are so sharp this season. There is also many more cameos this season including Maurissa Tancharoen Whedon, Doug Jones, Nathan Fillion, Erin Gray, Brent Spiner and of course Wil Wheaton. Like I mentioned each character has it own stories, Codex (Day) focuses on saving their game from being sold to a corporation.  Vork (Lewis) and Bladezz (Caso) decide to get a booth and take advantage of the Cheesybeard Pirate fame. Clara (Torsen) joins up with a Steampunk group. Tink (Okuda) get a real back story involving her family. Last but not least, Zaboo (Parikh) starts a seat-saving clan during convention. Each story was really sharp and was fine-tuned to each actor skills perfectly.

The special features are excellent as always for this series. Since this show is available online, these extras are the main draw. There are a bunch of cast interviews, talking about their experience with this season. The music is cheesy but the interviews are good. There is three featurettes included, the first is called “Double Trouble”, which tells about Leslie Crystal road from extra to co-star. The next is called “How to Build a Con” and really shows how much work goes into this show. The last is called “Steampunk Verite” and tells about the Steampunk booth was created. Like past DVD releases there are also two audio commentaries, one with the cast and one with creator Felicia Day, director Sean Becker and producer Kim Evey. Both are great and a lot of fun. There is a four minute gag reel, which is a riot. Lastly there is a video of the first episodes table read, which is cool to see but is shot from a terrible angle. Overall, another impressive DVD release! Look forward to season 6!