Directed by: Michael Bay
Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Josh Duhamel
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Paramount Home Entertainment
Running Time: 154 minutes

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

The “Transformers” series has really turned into a love it or hate it series. Fans have been doing nothing but fighting Michael Bay after the very over-producing and story lacking “Revenge of the Fallen”. “Dark of the Moon” definitely makes up for some the mistakes of the film prior but also presents a few new issues of its own. The major issue is that film needs to be a least 30 minutes shorter. When I originally saw this film in 3D IMAX, I wasn’t completely in love with the film at first. After letting it sit a while and especially watching it at home, I had a chance to really enjoy it a lot more.

The Blu-ray presentation on this release is absolutely fantastic. This honestly has to be THE most action packed Blu-ray in my library and also the best use of a Blu-ray to date. This film’s audio track also shines boasting Paramount’s Dolby TrueHD 7.1, easily one of the best I have ever heard on Blu-ray…and almost blew up my surround sound. The 3D on the Blu-ray really works well with the film since it was actually filmed in native 3D. There are no cheap tricks used in this film with the effect. I actually enjoyed the 3D quite more at home then in the theaters and thought it was a lot more focused. The story, well, that’s a another story but by this time in the series I think we have come to understand that these are movies about robots and visual effects.

Let’s discuss the other details of the release besides the 3D Blu-ray. This set also includes a Blu-ray disc of the film in 2D, as well as DVD disc. I am a big fan of the new digital copy service called, Ultraviolet. If you haven’t took advantage of this amazing digital streaming service, this is the film to start with.

The special features on this release are out of control and jam packed. The biggest feature on the release is “Above and Beyond: Exploring Dark of the Moon” is a super extensive five-part documentary that runs about two hours. The really dive deep into the development of the film ranging from the design to location filming to the stunts to the amazing post-production.  The next feature “Uncharted Territory: NASA’s Future Then and Now” runs about 30 minutes and focuses on exactly what its title suggests, no surprise here. “Deconstructing Chicago: Multi-Angle Sequences” is a visual effects featurette that is split in two parts.  The first is called “Previsualizations”, which allows you to view the visual effects raw with optional commentary by Director Michael Bay and Previsualization Supervisor Steve Yamamoto.  The second part is called “Visual Effects” which breaks down the VFX shots and also includes optional commentary by Visual Effects Supervisors Scott Farrar and Matthew Butler.  Both these features are able to be viewed individually or side-by-side with the final shots. “The Art of Cybertron” is a collection of still focusing on the world of the alien robots. “The Dark of the Moon Archive” is another production feature focusing on the 3D, the Moscow World Premiere and the stunt performers.  “The Sound of ‘Transformers: Dark of the Moon'” is focused on the film’s sound engineering, which scores the film two Oscar nominations in Sound Mixing and Editing. Lastly there is a collection of teasers/trailers and other promotional material in “The Matrix of Marketing”. Overall amazing extras for an amazing release.

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Director: Richard Gabai
Cast: Sean Patrick Flanery, Natalie Zea, Adam Baldwin, Christopher Lloyd, Thomas Ian Nicolas, Veronica Cartwright, Juliette Landau, Max Perlich, Angeline-Rose Troy
Distributed by: Phase 4 Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 92 minutes

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

It is rare that a film gets better with each viewing but “Insight” manages to do that.  Even though you know the twists, they still are able to entertain and surprise you.  The story is driven by a great script and a strong cast. The film is a non-stop thrill ride that keeps you guessing the whole movie.  You might not have heard of this film but you should definitely check it out, as it deserves some attention.

Kaitlyn (Zea) is a nurse that while attempting to save of a young woman is accidentally electrocuted in the operating room. After those events, Kaitlyn has memories that are not hers and are those of the young woman who died. She starts to question her sanity and seeks the help of a detective (Flannery) to try and help her figure out what is real and what is not. It is up to her to get to the bottom of what is happening to her before it is too late and the murderer strikes again.

The film succeeds with its all-star cast including Sean Patrick Flanery and Natalie Zea delivering good roles. The film also has notable appearances from Adam Baldwin, Christopher Lloyd and Thomas Ian Nicolas. The special features include a brief behind the scenes featurette and film’s trailer. Overall this is a fun thriller that really delivers some great twists.

Created by: Jack Thorne
Starring: Iain de Caestecker, Joe Dempsie, Natalie Dormer, Tom Ellis, Johnny Harris, Daniel Kaluuya, Lily Loveless, Sophie Wu, Daniela Nardini
Distributed by: BBC
No. of episodes: 6
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running time: 360 minutes

Series: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

“The Fades” is a new supernatural thriller from Jack Thorne creator of well known series “Skins”. This six-episode series is aimed for the horror genre, though its isn’t scary at all. The show started off good in the first two episodes but then it really took a dive in the middle till end. The show wants to act like a zombie show ala “The Walking Dead” but ends up playing more like an a teenage comedy/drama with some heavy religious aspects.  The show isn’t a total let down though but it definitely fizzles out quickly.

The show follows Paul Roberts (Iain De Caestecker) who is plagued with apocalyptic dreams pending the end of everything. Paul finds himself seeing strange spirits outside of his dreams called Fades. With the help of Neil Valentine (Johnny Harris), he finds out that he is one of the Angelics, a special team of people, and that he will lead them in the battle against the Fades.  When his friends and family are pulled into this mess, Paul needs to find a way to prevent this apocalypse from happening.

The video resolution on the Blu-ray is only 1080i but still looks good. The sound includes a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track but would have been better with 5.1 though. The special features include some behind the scenes footage, a few deleted scenes (nothing special) and outtakes that are spanned over two discs. There are also a few interviews with cast members Johnny Harris and Natalie Dormer. “Mac Explains” are the intros from each episode where Paul’s best friend fills us in. Overall decent but nothing special.

The Fades Season 1 available on Blu-ray & DVD on 2/21 at http://bit.ly/yproj3

Written by Jack Thorne (“Skins,” “This Is England ’86,” “Shameless”), “The Fades” is a coming-of-age fantasy drama showcasing the supernatural skills of a reluctant teenager named Paul (as played by Iain De Caestecker, formerly of “Coronation Street”). His best friend, Mac (Daniel Kaluuya, “Johnny English Reborn,” “Skins”), as well as his therapist, are completely stunned by the apocalyptic dreams that he’s been having. His twin sister Anna (Lily Loveless, “Skins”) is also unsympathetic of his socially awkward behavior.

Created by: Greg Weisman, Brandon Vietti
Voices of: Bruce Greenwood, Crispin Freeman, Stephanie Lemelin, Jesse McCartney
Danica McKellar, Nolan North, Khary Payton, Jason Spisak
4 episodes
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Join Robin, Miss Martian, Superboy, Aqualad and Kid Flash on their adventures to fight the bad guys. This DVD comes packed with four episodes from the first season. This release lands in the series between from episode 9 through 12.  There are 26 episodes in season one so expect at least another 4 volumes for this season. The series is really fun and exciting but these episodes have started to get a little more darker and intense. If you are a fan of shows like “Justice League” and “Teen Titans”, this is a good mix of both.

The episodes includes are “Befret”, “Targets”, “Terror”, “Home Front”. “Befret” deals with the team trying to recover their memories after their mission in Bialya. In “Targets” puts the team in between an assassinate plot against Lex Luthor. “Terror” focuses on Superboy and Miss Martian planning to infiltrate Belle Reve. Lastly, “Home Front” brings forward the attack from Red Inferno and Red Torpedo on Mount Justice. Definitely some of the best episodes in the series to date.  I will look forward to see what comes next especially with the cliffhanger it leaves off on.

Available on DVD 2/21 at http://bit.ly/xA7kld
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Robin, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Superboy, Miss Martian and Artemis have become YOUNG JUSTICE – The Justice League’s secret weapon against the forces of evil. The teen heroes will take on under-the-radar missions that would be impossible for the Justice League to handle covertly. Red Tornado will be their supervisor; Black Canary will be in charge of their training and Batman will hand out their assignments.

Created by: Chuck Jones
Voiced by: Mel Blanc
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Episodes: 17
Run Time: 119 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Well Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and why not celebrate it with the old school French Skunk, Pepe Le Pew! He has looking for love since 1945 and it still is fun to watch his adventures.  Looney Tunes has really created some of the most memorable characters and he is one of my favorites.  This collection from Warner Bros features, for the first time, some of Pepe’s greatest shorts, which deserve to be showcased.

Here are the list of episodes included: Odor-Able Kitty, Scent-imental Over You, Odor of the Day, For Scent-imental Reasons, Scent-imental Romeo, Little Beau Pepé, Wild Over You, Dog Pounded, The Cats Bah, Past Perfumance, Two Scent’s Worth, Heaven Scent, Touché and Go, Really Scent, Who Scent You?, A Scent of the Matterhorn, Louvre Come Back to Me!

This collection is labeled “Zee Best of Zee Best” and it is exactly that. Easily one of my favorites is the “Wild Over You” where Pepe falls in love with a wildcat from the zoo.  The cartoons still look amazing especially since some of them are almost 70 years old.  Some of the episodes are presented in widescreen, while most though are shown in full screen ratio.  Truly a great tribute to one of Looney Tunes most romantic characters.  This is a must purchase for all fans.

Synopsis:
A new compilation featuring 17 iconic shorts of the loveable French Skunk, Pepe Le Pew! Pepe is always strolling around Paris in the springtime, where everyone’s thoughts are of “love”. While he is constantly seeking “l’amour” of his own, his huge turnoff to any prospective mate is his malodorous scent. Together for the first time are some of Pepe’s most beloved and comical shorts.

The Looney Tunes Pepe Le Pew Collection Available on DVD 12/27 at http://bit.ly/rTf1wm!
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Directed by: Gary Hustwit
Starring: Sir Norman Foster, Rem Koolhaas, Oscar Niemeyer, Amanda Burden, Enrique Penalosa
Distributed by: New Video
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 85 minutes

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

“Urbanized” is the final documentary in director Gary Hustwit’s design film trilogy following “Helvetica” and “Objectified”. This film is the series focuses on the design of cities. I felt that the film keep my attention very well for the first 30 minutes during the films look at different cities in the world. Once it started going into topics of economic development and environmental policies, I started fading fast.

The film not only looks at design but also the issues and strategies behind urban design. It features interviews with some of the world’s most respected architects, planners and builders. There is much focus on problems with housing, public space and the government interactions. If that sounds like your cup of tea then then film is for you, otherwise you might want to take a pass.

The Blu-Ray of this film delivers with its great both video and its 5.1 surround track, though since it is a documentary its nothing special. It actually also has a notable case and booklet, which is rare for films these days. The cover art is illustrated beautifully and includes liner notes by director Gary Hustwit. If you are looking for bonus features, this film contains an additional one hour of interviews and footage. Worth checking out for sure if you enjoyed the film.

Directed by: Nick Morris
Actors: Ramin Karimloo, Sierra Boggess, Hadley Fraser, Wendy Ferguson, Barry James
MPAA Rating Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Distributed by: Universal Studios
Run Time: 160 minutes

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

“The Phantom of the Opera” is the currently longest running show on New York’s Broadway. It is also currently has production playing London, Budapest and Las Vegas.  In October 2011, the show marked its 25th anniversary and took stage on the legendary Royal Albert Hall in London. I have seen the stage production of this show many times and this Blu-ray presentation is such an amazing representation of the show. This show features composer Andrew Lloyd Webber at the helm and really shows the wonderful scale of the stage production. Honestly if you have never seen this show, this is an amazing way to enjoy this whether it is your first time or your 10th time.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score on Blu-ray is so stunning boasting a fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. Match that with an amazing HD presentation and this is one attractive Blu-ray. The video really captures the beauty and color in this show and really brings it to life in your living room. In the bonus features category, there is only one feature but it is worth watching to take a look into the shows production. “Getting Past the Point of No Return” is a very in depth behind the scenes featurette with the cast and crew.

The 25th anniversary production of this show not only looks beautiful but also includes an amazing cast and orchestra of over 200 and also features some very cool guest appearances like “Phantom” originals, Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman. Taking on the role of the Phantom is Ramini Karimloo and the role of Christine is portrayed by Sierra Boggess, both who are know for their roles in “Love Never Dies” (the sequel to “Phantom of the Opera”). They both do such an amazing job and really bright their own unique specialties to the characters. Speaking of the sequel if you enjoy this Blu-ray do not forget to also check out “Love Never Dies”, which will be released on Blu-ray as well on May 29, 2012.

Directed by: Ian Palmer
Starring: Ian Palmer, James Quinn McDonagh, Paddy Joyce
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Arc Entertainment
Running Time: 97 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extra: N/A

The fighting world has been sprung into the spotlight in the last few years with UFC and many other MMA leagues. This film focuses on Irish bare-knuckle fighting and but really isn’t able to keep your attention based the first 30 minutes. The coolest thing about this film is the fact that it was captured about the last 12 years. But unfortunately that film feels like it actually lasts 12 years though only running just over an hour and a half.

This film follows a look into a life long feud between three rival families. The film is a 12-year look into in the world of an Irish communities bare-knuckle fighting and the relationships between the men. I understand the Irish family grudges but it just seems to very repetitive and I would have liked the focus to stick with one family. I had trouble following who was with you.

Since the film is complied of footage over the last 12 years, don’t expect this DVD to look like anything special video-wise. There is grainy video footage dating back way before HD video. Also be prepared to read since most of the film’s dialogue is subtitled due to the fighters thick Irish dialect. If you are looking for any special features for this film, don’t look here because it is extremely bare-bones much like the bare-knuckles in the film.

Directed by: Christopher Olen Ray
Starring: Carmen Electra, Brooke Hogan, Charlie O’Connell
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Studio: The Asylum Home Entertainment
Running Time: 90 minutes

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

With a title like “2 Headed Shark Attack”, you know that you just have to have fun with a film like that. Either love it or hate it. The cast alone is a riot including Carmen Electra, Brooke Hogan and Charlie O’Connell. Carmen is useless in the film and just poses and tries to act hot, but fails. Brooke is actually pretty kick-ass, campy, but still kick-ass. Charlie O’Connell is probably the worst of them all. But we come back to the point again, you don’t watch a film like this for the acting. You watch it for the cool shark and fun kills. That is exactly what you get in this film, nothing more…nothing less.

Does the plot even matter? There is a 2 headed shark attacking people and it is as simple as that. In case it matters to you, the film follows a group of college students and their professors that get stranded on a isolated island during a school boat trip that goes wrong. They find out that the island is actually sinking and they are being hunted by a shark that has been genetically mutated and it has…wait for…2 heads.

The shark visual effects are decent when it is in the water. It actually comes up with some creative kills, for example two girls water skiing and the shark pops up behind them ala “Jaws 2” and each head picks off a girl. Simple cheesy laughable fun. The practical shark effects when it is shown out of the water are damn terrible and it is just a puppet and doesn’t even move. I think that is a very poor choice and it should have stuck with sorely CG effects.

The Blu-ray presentation itself is good for and the video is sharp and showcases the effects well. Surprisingly the sound is also good sporting a 5.1 audio surround track. The special features though are a little lacking though with a very brief gag reel, which is passable. There is also a brief featurette on the making of the film, it is worth watching just for the visual effects park about the sharks. I enjoyed that quite a bit. Overall this is just another cheesy creature feature film ala “Mega Shark vs. Octopus” and “Mega Shark”. Watch it, tune out and enjoy.

Directed by: Stuart Simpson
Starring Norman Yemm, Nelli Scarlet
Rated: Unrated
Distributed by: Vicious Circle Films
Run Time: 75 minutes

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

With a tag line on the box “Killer Vixens vs. The Creature from the Deep”, I was hoping this film was going to be a kick-ass low budget creature feature. Unfortunately we only get a real glimpse of this creature in the last five minutes of the film. The only redeeming fact of this film are special effects in the closing scene but they come too little too late. This film is trying to act like a Grindhouse film but plays more like a PG-13 retro-rip off.

The film follow three crazy hired killers, Beretta, Blondie and Snowball, who hideaway in a small beach side community in order to avoid heat from their last kill. Of course the town has a dark secret and the local old seaman, Joseph, warn them not to go in the water. Since the girls don’t follow any rules, they do and they awake the sea creature, the Kraken! The vixens must team up with Joseph’s grand daughter, Hannah, to fight for their lives against this creature who has the lust for blood.

The special features are actually pretty sweet overall. They include an exclusive interview with the Monstro Girls, audio commentaries with the cast and crew, a behind-the-scenes featurette, deleted scenes, and two short films, “Acid Spiders” and “Sickie”, from Director Stuart Simpson. Overall worth checking out.

Directed by: Harold Becker
Starring: Matthew Modine, Linda Fiorentino, Michael Schoeffling, Ronny Cox
Charles Hallahan, Harold Sylvester, Daphne Zuniga
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Archive
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 107 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

If you are wondering why we are reviewing this title from 1985, it is because Warner Bros Archive has released a new edition of it. It is not a fully remastered edition instead it is taken from the best-quality master available. This release still looks and sounds good especially for a film which is almost 20 years old.  It is also the first time that this film has ever been released in widescreen on DVD.  Overall this movie still makes wrestling look bad ass.

Matthew Modine really nails this performance. Linda Fiorentino wears the 80’s hairdo well but otherwise I am not a big fan of her. One of the main draws for this film has to be its killer 80’s soundtrack featuring Journey’s “Only the Young” and Foreigner’s “Hot Blooded”. It even includes a cameo from Madonna performing her hits “Gambler” and “Crazy for You”. Honestly that is enough for me.

This film was a modest success but since has developed quite a cult following. I am sure that fans would be looking for this film with a massive amount of special features but unfortunately this release does not include any. In fact, I would love to see this film converted to HD and released on Blu-ray…you hear that Warner Brothers? If you don’t own this film prior, it is a good way to pick it up cheap for now and enjoy till then.

Synopsis:
High school wrestler Louden Swain is a man obsessed, trying to shed 23 pounds in a dangerously short time and take on Shute, the undefeated, tough-as-nails 168-pound champion who’s the best wrestler in the state. Matthew Modine stars as the mop-headed student undeterred in his Vision Quest…until the day a sexy drifter (Linda Fiorentino) threatens to pin Louden and his dreams to the mat of unrequited love. The hit soundtrack features Journey’s “Only the Young”, Foreigner’s “Hot Blooded” and John Waite’s “Change”. In her first film, Madonna shines while performing “Gambler” and “Crazy for You”. You’ll go crazy for Vision Quest.

Directed by: Jason Winn
Starring: Ron Lester, Cole Carson, Kelly Lynn Washington, Christopher Rivera
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Studio: Phase 4 Films
Run Time: 78 minutes

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

Obesity is a very serious issue especially amongst young children. If you match that with the subject of bullying and this film really aims to deliver a very important message. The movie definitely packed some really emotional content into its short 78 minute run time. Christopher Rivera delivers a fantastic performance and really grabs hold of the audiences attention from the start. It is inspiring and also very educational for kids and adults.

The film itself is inspired by a true story, which makes it feel even more real and important. It follows Jimmy Winterpock, who is an overweight student starting his first year in high school and dealing with being bullied by his classmates. The film follows Jimmy’s efforts to overcome his bullies and win the girl of his dreams.

The special features are decent and include a preview of the eBook and information on Bully Prevention. Also included is an audio commentary track from the director and some interesting interviews from the cast, all worth checking out for sure. The only issue I had with the film itself was the teenage murder subplot. I thought it was a little out of place and didn’t really fit into the films message. In the end I feel that the film succeeds in delivering its important message and hopefully people will see this film and take its issues seriously.

Directed by: Sam Levinson
Starring: Ellen Barkin, Kate Bosworth, Ellen Burstyn, Thomas Haden Church
George Kennedy, Ezra Miller, Demi Moore
Distributed by Phase 4 Films
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 119 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

This film has one heck of an outstanding cast and the performances are great…although it doesn’t make a good film. The film is billed as a black comedy but there is hardly anything comedic about it, in fact it is very depressing. Ezra Miller is really stepping up as being the go-to guy for messed up roles, especially after co-starring in “We Need to Talk About Kevin”. Ellen Barkin also gives a very intense performance but man she looks really OLD!! The film was the winner of the Sundance Film Festival’s Screenwriting Award and it no shock as the story is quite well done but the two hour running time definitely drags the film down.

The movie focuses on one messed up family that is getting together for a wedding. The wedding is for Lynn’s (Ellen Barkin) oldest son Dylan. Things get complicated when her other son Elliot (Ezra Miller) gets out of control and issues with her yet-to-arrive daughter Alice (Kate Bosworth). Lynn also has to deal with her ex-husband (Thomas Haden Church) and his new wife (Demi Moore) as they try to take over the wedding. Lynn is pushed to the limit and how much is she able to take before her and her family goes over the edge.

This film is the debut of writer and director Sam Levinson and he definitely shows potential especially with the script. The DVD does not come with any special features which does not give this release any extra points. Everyone has dysfunctional families but this one definitely takes the cake. If you are looking for some great performances, this might be interesting to take a look into but otherwise I would take a pass on this one.

Directed by : Bill Condon
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Summit
Run Time: 117 minutes

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

“The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1” is the second to last film in the series.  Some people will be rejoiced to have it end and some will be mortified when it is over.  This film is honestly hard to get through, but luckily the last 15 minutes are very cool.  I have a feeling that “Breaking Dawn – Part 2” might be pretty bad ass, now that all the romance is done.  I think that they could have kept “Breaking Dawn” as one movie but I am sure it is mostly for the fans..and to make more money.  This Blu-ray release is going to be a hit for Valentine’s Day, since it is getting released perfectly in time for its fans to enjoy Bella & Edward’s wedding and honeymoon during the holiday.  Die-hard fans will obviously eat up the romance but the casual fans might want to wait till “Part 2” comes around.

If you follow “The Twilight Saga”, this is the movie that you are really waiting for the marriage of Bella and Edward and of course Bella possibly turning into a vampire.  Basically the whole film is just one long honeymoon scene followed by Bella’s pregnancy.  The birth of their child might not be as simple as it sounds as it will break the treaty with the werewolves. The Cullen’s with the help of Jacob will need to protect Bella from the werewolf pack.  But will Bella even survive this supernatural pregnancy? But of course if you read the book you know the answer to this. Also be sure to stick around through the credits to see a sneak peak in the Volturi’s role for “Part 2”.

The Blu-ray presentation is fantastic overall with its video which looks sharp especially during the battle scene at the end. The sound is honestly the best part though of the film boasting its superb 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, very impressive.  The bonus features are packed and will definitely satisfy the most hard core fans.  Firstly you are able to jump immediately to your favorite scenes.  There is the Bella and Edward’s Wedding Video, which is for major fans only.  There is a great audio commentary with director Bill Condon, he really seems to be an actor’s directory and really enjoys the filming experience.  There is a super in depth 6-part “Making Of” series which takes you individually into every aspect of the film from each character to the film’s production.  It is very interesting even for non-fans.

Directed by: Roland Emmerich
Starring: Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, Joely Richardson, David Thewlis, Xavier Samuel, Sebastian Armesto, Rafe Spall, Edward Hogg, Jamie Campbell Bower
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 130 Minutes

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

This film has had a lot of critique about the its story being hard to follow. I have to agree it is very confusing skipping between past and present but I was able to keep up with the story and really enjoy it. The performances in the film are absolutely fantastic Rhys Ifans, Sebastian Armesto and Vanessa Redgrave really deliver! Rafe Spall, who portrays William Shakespeare, plays the role as an absolute dunce but that is on purpose…so he does it well. The Blu-ray presentation is absolutely flawless. The sound is also very sharp intertwining the score throughout the film. The visual effects in the film are very notable as this film uses new VFX CG technology in order to beautifully recreate old London, circa 1550-1604. If you are able to catch on with the confusing story, this is packed with wonderful visuals and acting that makes it worth checking out.

“Anonymous” speculates about the of many century old question asking if Shakespeare actually wrote the plays that he is credited for. The film focuses on Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxford (Rhys Ifans) who secretly writes plays as an outlet for his expression. When he meets the playwright Ben Jonson (Sebastian Armesto), he convinces his to pose the plays as his own in order to get them to be performed. The plays are posed as being written by Anonymous. During the climax of an applause and the request for the author, an illiterate actor named William Shakespeare (Rafe Spall) claims the credit. Of course from this point on there is plenty of mass corruption and deceit that unravels.

The special features are great and worth taking a look at. The commentary track from director Roland Emmerich and writer John Orloff is a great companion to the film. There are three deleted scenes and two extended scenes included, also worth checking out. Since I spoke a lot about the visual effects in the film, I am happy that there is a very detailed look into them in the feature “More Than Special Effects”, which runs almost 15 minutes long. “Who is the Real William Shakespeare?” runs about 10 minutes discusses the evidence provided in the film about Shakespeare. Lastly, there is a featuring about the film’s casting called “Speak the Speech…”, which runs about just over 15 minutes and is very detailed.