Directed by: Mel Stuart
Starring: Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter Ostrum, Julie Dawn Cole, Paris Themmen, Denise Nickerson & Michael Bollner
Distributed by: Warner Bros.
MPAA Rating: PG
Running time: 100 minutes

Ultimate Collector’s Edition: 5 out of 5 stars

I have seen “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” an uncountable amount of times. I have also interview most of the cast/crew, check it out here. It is for sure in my top 5 films of all time, no question. So obviously, I will not need to say more about the film…and plus who hasn’t seen “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” at least once. When this film came to Blu-ray, I think I smiled for a complete 24 hours straight. The film is meant for this format. The colors are so vibrant, rich and brought to life on this release. The sound and music are perfect and really makes singing along very easy…come on, you all know the words. Now with the Ultimate Collector’s Edition, we get the perfect beautiful Blu-ray release and SOOOOO much more…

Besides the Blu-ray and DVD disc, the set some with a 144-page paperback book, “Pure Imagination: The Making of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” from director Mel Stuart talking about the production from behind the scenes. Next is a replica production correspondence in a heavy paper envelope and it contains 14 letters.  A reprint of the cast list, a letter from producer Stan Margulies to Pia Arnold, a handwritten letter from Gene Wilder to Mel Stuart, a note from producer David L. Wolper to Mel Stuart and some of the letter included. There is a Wonka Bar tin container which holds four multi-colored scratch-n-sniff pencils and a scented chocolate eraser. There is also a replica of a Wonka golden ticket with an online code for a new prize giveaway. I mean if all that isn’t worth the purchase alone then you obviously aren’t a fan of this film.

The special features are a little light and not in HD but there has never been real extras on any of the releases in the past so it is not a shock. Being a fan of this film for almost 30 years, the audio commentary is worth the price of the set alone which included all five Wonka kids, Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt), Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee), Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop) and Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde). It is fun and very entertaining. The first extra is called “Pure Imagination: The Story of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory”, which runs about 30 minutes and pretty much is a verbal coverage from Mel Stuart behind the scenes book. There are four karaoke-style sing-along videos for “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” “Pure Imagination,” “I Want It Now” and “Oompa-Loompa-Doompa-De-Do.” Come all though…we all know the words! There is a really cool vintage featurette from 1971, which is really interesting and of course disc 1 wrap with the 1971 theatrical trailer. The second disc only has two special features first with “Mel Stuart’s Wonkavision” which is a new featurette that has Mel Stuart reminiscing about the film. Lastly, “A World of Pure Imagination” is a newly found vintage featurette with the interview with author Roald Dahl.

Synopsis: A poor little boy wins a ticket to visit the inside of a mysterious and magical chocolate factory. When he experiences the wonders inside the factory, the boy discovers that the entire visit is a test of his character. Special Features: Scrumptious Documentary, Pure Imagination: The Story of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory, Mouth Watering Commentary With The Wonka Kids, 4 Sing-Along Songs, Vintage 1971 Featurette, Stills Gallery & Theatrical Trailer.

Available on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, On Demand and for Download 10/18! http://bit.ly/oSDajR

Director: Miguel Heded Abraham
Starring: Alberto Villoldo
Distributed: Koch Entertainment
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Run Time: 70 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When I read the title for the film which included “Healing with Sacred Planet”, I have to admit I did roll my eyes a little. This documentary follows the study of the healing practices of the Amazon. It is filmed in high definition and takes up through beautiful areas of the jungle as it reveals the secrets of the sacred plants and the healers who administer them. Although it runs only 70 minutes the content is a little short and could have been easily cut down to an hour special.

The film showcases the work of the master shamans of Peru’s Madre de Dios River. Dr. Alberto Villoldo provides insight into the process and theory of the powerful brew made by the shamans known as Ayahuasca. Testimonial interviews are also giving from various people all over the world who are discovering the powerful medicinal properties of Ayahuasca. For some reason the people reminded me of those who would join a cult and were very free spirited. I enjoy the whole spiritual journey to healing but overall it is a little bit too trippy for me.

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Directed by: Martin Campbell
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong
Angela Bassett, Tim Robbins
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Running time: 123 minutes (Extended Cut)

Extended Cut: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am probably one of the few people that really enjoyed this movie.  I thought that it was very entertaining and even though it was a little short it still delivers a good punch.  In this Blu-ray the film is presented in two formats, the theatrical extended cuts which adds almost 10 minutes to the film.  I felt like the extended cut added a little more to the film but not much.  Honestly I also felt the same way with another Warner Bros. release “Sucker Punch”.  I thought the extended cut was good but didn’t do much extra to “wow” me.  I have to add that this film is much better viewed in 3D, especially since a good portion of the film takes place on an alien planet.

Ryan Reynolds did a good job with this character and hopefully sets it up to get a little more breathing room if they decided to do a sequel.  I think that audiences this summer where just superhero-ed out by the time this was released.  The video on the Blu-ray presentation is very clear and crisp.  Even though the sound is not 7.1, it is still extraordinary using DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.  Fans of this film who own a 3D player, make sure to get this film in 3D if you have choice.  If you haven”t seen this film and are interested in giving it a chance, do not hesitate this release is will not leave you unsatisfied and it is personally my favorite superhero movie of the year.

The extras on the disc include a great feature called “Maximum Movie Mode: Green Lantern’s Light”.  It runs about three hours and has Green Lantern comicbook writer Geoff Johns taking us on an extensive behind-the-scenes look at the film.  It focuses on the development, special effects,  character designs and much more and does it while showing the film. There are a few production featurettes including “The Art of Green Lantern,” “Weapons Hot: The U.C.A.V. Dog Fight,” “Reinventing the Superhero Costume,” “Ring Slinging 101,” “We Are the Corps,” “Acting Under 10 Pounds of Silicone,” “Guardians Revealed” and “When Parallax Attacks.”  They total about 50 minutes in length and are definitely worth a watch for sure! The next feature is called “The Universe According to Green Lantern”, which is a trip into the fandom behind the comic book with interviews from the DC Comics artists, writers and executives, as well as filmmakers and fans.  The feature “Ryan Reynolds Becomes the Green Lantern” shows the transformation for Ryan Reynolds into the Green Lantern with CGI.  There are  five deleted scenes that are worth a watch but nothing fantastic.  The first issue of “Justice League” from “The New 52” DC Comics relaunch is also included on the disc as a digital comic.  There is a preview of the new TV series, “Green Lantern: The Animated Series” and has a col besides the scenes look…it has me hooked for sure.  The last feature is not related to “Green Lantern” but if you are fan of “Batman: Arkham City” you are going to love the  PS3 code to suit up as Sinestro Corps Batman.  Also included is the new UltraViolet Digital Copy, the new service is really cool and allows streaming or downloading to a variety of devices.

Synopsis: In a universe as vast as it is mysterious, an elite, powerful force has existed for centuries. Protectors of peace and justice, they are called the Green Lantern Corps. When a new enemy called Parallax threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, their fate and the fate of Earth lie in the hands of their newest recruit, the first human ever selected: Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds). Hal is a gifted and cocky test pilot, but the Green Lanterns have little respect for humans, who have never harnessed the infinite powers of the ring before. But Hal’s humanity is one weapon no member of the Corps has ever had, and if–with willpower, determination and the encouragement of fellow pilot and childhood sweetheart Carol Ferris (Blake Lively)–Hal can quickly master his new powers and find the courage to overcome his fears, he will save the Earth and all of mankind from certain destruction

Buy It 10/14 on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack with UltraViolet Digital Copy or Download to Own http://bit.ly/qw00KD

Directed by: Mike Barker
Starring: William Hurt, Ethan Hawke, Donald Sutherland, Gillian Anderson
Charlie Cox, Raoul Trujillo, Billy Boyd, Eddie Marsan
Production company: RHI Entertainment
Original channel: Encore
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running time: 180 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick has been adapted for film many many times over the years. This adaption is not just a movie though, it is a 3 hour mini-series event. The story itself is a re-imagination and backed up by a huge budget of $25 million dollars. The mini-series also boasts a great cast which only continued to help out the film. I wasn’t sure how this was going to translate into a mini-series but it kept my attention the whole time through good special effects and character development.

We all know the general idea of “Moby Dick”, in this adaptation we are led by Captain Ahab, who is obsessed with revenge against the white whale, Moby Dick. He takes him crew mates on an epic journey of adventure, vengeance and obsession. The special effects for the whale are good enough for me, they are a little bit better than Syfy quality. I was impressed with the it overall and production wise overall, I thought it was very entertaining. No extras on the DVD though which is a little bit disappointing.

My only probably with this high profile cast is that Donald Sutherland and Gillian Anderson are only in the opening of the film and then never seen again once our crew hits the waters. Ethan Hawke is great in the role of Starbuck. Charlie Cox was believable in the role of Ishmael but gotta give some props to Raoul Trujillo in the role of Queequeg. He was funny and really likeable as a character. The best of them all and most intense performance has to, of course, go to William Hurt who nails his role of Captain Ahab. He very dark and deep and really commits to the role.

Directed by: Mark McQueen
Starring: Danny Dyer, Craig Fairbrass, Jaime Murray
Distributed by Vivendi Entertainment
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 93 minutes

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

Ever since “28 Days Later” made zombies popular they have become very “in” in Hollywood. I enjoy a zombie movie just as much as the next person (even though the “Resident Evil” series seriously is loosing major steam). This film is decent and I definitely enjoyed it. It is not just your typical zombie rip-off. It is slow-paced with character development, some decent jumps and great effects. The quality of the film overall looks like has a decent size budget.

The plot is nothing new a pharmaceutical company is testing with drugs and SURPRISE people turn into zombies. We follow Cole, who is mercenary killer who searches for a cure for this zombie apocalypse before he turns into one himself. He is met up with a group of people that are trying to survive. One of the woman’s DNA in the group holds the key to survival. It is up to Cole to help save the day before it is too late. Before you ask…YES, the zombies are fast moving, kick some ass and there is show off some great stunt work in the film.

The special features are slim but decent and definitely watchable. We have some Behind-the-scenes featurettes, which are good because they go into some good parts of the films production. There are also some deleted scenes, not spectacular but worth a watch for sure. Even though it takes place in London, this is not “28 Days Later” but it also not a waste of time. Check it out!

Directed by: The Vicious Brothers
Starring: Sean Rogerson, Juan Riedinger, Ashleigh Gryzko, Mackenzie Gray, Merwin Mondesir
Distributed by Tribeca Film Festival
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running time: 95 minutes

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

I am sure everyone has had their fare share of first person POV shaky hand fake documentary films but this one stands out from the lesser imitations. If you like “Ghost Hunters” and all those paranormal shows, then you will like this for sure. This packs some decent scares and good visual effects for a low budget film. The film sags a little bit in the middle but there are also some good twists throughout the film that keeps it moving.

The story is simple and done before but this one packs a different little twist. it is told in “true story/missing footage format” ala “the Blair Witch Project” or “Paranormal Activity”. We follow the crew of TV series “Grave Encounters” as they prepare to shoot an episode inside the abandoned psychiatric hospital. Of course once they check-in to the hospital…they might have a hard time checking out.

The extras are short but definitely enjoyable with an interview with the Vicious Brothers and Producer Shawn Angelski. It is definitely informative and gives insight into the film. I also enjoyed the “Making of Grave Encounters”, which is obviously a behind the scenes into the production.

Directed by: Alex de la Iglesiasia
Starring: Carlos Areces, Antonio de la Torre, Carolina Bang
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 107 minutes
Distributed by: Magnet Releasing

Film: 1.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

Honestly, how can you go wrong with a story about a clown that goes nuts and goes on a rampage. Well, in this case the film tries to go a lot deeper than it needs to. The film starts off decent and gives some interesting back story to show that this isn’t just a slash ’em up horror film. It very quickly though gets lost though in it uninteresting story and forgets to bring the “wow” factor. Towards the last 15 minutes of the film, I was even considering just turning it off…it is just very long and drawn out. I would have just been happy if the film focused just on troubled clown who took one day of shit too much and lost it.

This busy story starts in 1937 during the Spanish Civil War, where a man in a clown suit massacres an entire platoon with a machete (good stuff like I said starting off). The man gets put in jail for life and his young son, Javier is left alone. Fast forward to 1973, Javier is trying follows in his father’s footsteps but falls for his bosses beautiful acrobat wife, Natalia. The three end up in a love triangle that leads to the boring…(I mean thrilling) events in the third act.

The extras on the disc are not great and nothing is in HD. The first feature is “Making of The Last Circus” is just your typical featurette with behind the scenes etc. There is a 7 minute montage of behind the scenes footage, not very exciting at all. The most interesting feature is about the film’s visual effects, which talks about the post-production contains over 600 effects shots. Then all that is left is a U.S. and an International Trailer and Teaser. Underwhelming extras for an underwhelming movie.

Directed by: William Wyler
Starring: Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Haya Harareet, Stephen Boyd, Hugh Griffith
Distributed by: Warner Bros.
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 212 minutes

Overall Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Ben-Hur” is such a classic film and it is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year. Warner Bros is giving this film the real ultimate collector’s edition. Not only it is packed with great content (which I will get to shortly), for this release, “Ben-Hur” has undergone a $1 million restoration. Warner Bros. performed a frame by frame restoration from the original 65 mm negative making this the highest resolution restoration ever completed by the studio. It is no joke and it really deserves the high praises. To get to the new goodies includes first we get an all-new high-definition feature-length documentary called “Charlton Heston: A Personal Journey”. This chronicles Heston’s life while filming Ben-Hur. The other new feature is called “Charlton Heston: The Ben-Hur Diaries”, which is a first-time exclusive look into an Oscar-winning actor’s experience while making an award-winning film. Along is those feature an actual reproduction of Charlton Heston’s personal diary is includes which dates from January 1958 through April 1960. There is also an exclusive hardbound book with rare photography, production art and reproductions from the original theatrical press book. Wow…right? So amazing!

The Blu-ray itself includes the movie split over two discs and features some really crisp and clear Dolby Digital 5.1 Audio. The special features on those discs are commentary by film historian T. Gene Hatcher with scene specific comments from Charlton Heston. There is also an amazing music-only track showing off the terrible memorable score by Miklos Rozsa. Disc three features “Charlton Heston: A Personal Journey”, which we talked about already. It runs about 80 minutes as well. There is the 1925 Silent Version of “Ben-Hur” includes. Next up is the 2005 documentary “Ben-Hur: The Epic That Changed Cinema”, which shows Ben Hur’s influence on today’s films. Heading back another decade or so, we then have the 1994 Documentary “Ben-Hur: The Making of an Epic Hosted by Christopher Plummer”. A very interesting extra is next called “Ben-Hur: A Journey Through Pictures” it is a travel through the film with stills, music and storyboards…very interesting. There are about 30 minutes of screen tests, which is fun to watch since it is aged 50 years. If you dig vintage, then you will love the old newsreels galleries from the film. Lastly there is highlights from the 1960 Academy Awards ceremony. Great extras on a wonderful Blu-ray release. This really earns the title of Ultimate Collector’s Edition.

Synopsis: Experience the visual splendor, thundering action and towering drama of this record-setting Academy Award-winning film. Charlton Heston, in his Best Actor Oscar-winning role, is Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman in Palestine whose heroic odyssey includes enslavement by the Romans, vengeance against his tormentors during a furious arena chariot race and fateful encounters with Jesus Christ. Best Director Oscar-winner William Wyler masterfully grips the reins of an enduring and spellbinding spectacular.

Directors: Seth Gordon
Starring: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, Kevin Spacey
MPAA Rated: R
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Running Time: 106 minutes

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

I have to admit…I purposefully missed this film in the theaters.  I thought it looked funny but nothing special and after watching, I still stick with my original thought. The film has quite a few good laughs but no repeat value.  The cast is fun and some of them are really out of their element like Jennifer Aniston and Colin Farrell. They were so funny and over the top that they easily stole the show. We have seen Kevin Spacey play the bad guy before…didn’t we all see “Fred Clause”…hello? Honestly I have to say that Charlie Day was my least favorite of the group. I guess that is why I don’t or ever will watch “It’s Always Sunny in Philadephia”. Jason Bateman is funny as well but was so much better in under-appreciated “The Change-Up”.

This 3-Disc ‘Totally Inappropriate Edition’ release is great though, includes both the theatrical and extended cuts on Blu-ray, DVD, and digital code to access a version of the film via UltraViolet.  This new service is really cool and allows streaming or downloading to a variety of devices. The special features include deleted scenes, which are decent and have a few laughs. If you like featurettes, this set contains four of: “My Least Favorite Career”, “Surviving a Horrible Boss”, “Being Mean Is So Much Fun”, and “The Making of the Horrible Bosses Soundtrack”. The first three are decent but the soundtrack one is not great. Overall if you are fan of this movie, this is worth the buy. Might want to rent it though it you haven’t seen it yet.

Synopsis: Management candidate Nick Hendricks (Jason Bateman) has been logging 12-hour days and eating everything his twisted supervisor Dave Harken (Kevin Spacey) dishes out, toward the promise of a well-earned promotion. But now he knows that?s never going to happen. Meanwhile, dental assistant Dale Arbus (Charlie Day) has been struggling to maintain his self-respect against the relentless X-rated advances of Dr. Julia Harris, D.D.S. (Jennifer Aniston), when she suddenly turns up the heat. And accountant Kurt Buckman (Jason Sudeikis) has just learned that his company?s corrupt new owner, Bobby Pellit (Colin Farrell), is not only bent on ruining his career but plans to funnel toxic waste into an unsuspecting population. Quitting is not an option. These monsters must be stopped. So, on the strength of a few-too-many drinks and some dubious advice from a hustling ex-con whose street cred is priced on a sliding scale (Jamie Foxx), the guys devise a convoluted but foolproof plan to rid the world of their respective employers? permanently. But even the best-laid plans are only as good as the brains behind them.

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Developed by: Ruby-Spears Productions
Voices of: Bob Sarlatte, Ellen Gerstell, Fred Travalena, Michael Mish, Arthur Burghardt, Peter Cullen
Studio: Warner Bros.
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Episodes: 13
Run Time: 279 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Dragon’s Lair” was always an interesting type of arcade game especially since it had you choose you own path and your decisions in the game reflected different results. Now if your wondering how that transfers to a television show, obviously not totally well. The show does present different scenarios that could happen for our hero and it fun because it is usually before a commercial break, so it leaves you waiting to see what happens.  Honestly though, the show has dragons, princesses and knights…and what else do you want in an 80’s cartoon. I think it works for me.

In case you haven’t heard of this show that is due to the fact that it only last 1 season of 13 episodes. The show is well done by the Hanna-Barbera team and the animation is decent for mid-80’s. The voice work is completely over the top and reminds of “The Legend of Zelda” TV series. This DVD release is the first time that this series is seeing the light of day, thank you again Warner Brothers Archive. In general the show is fun and mindless. It is not the best series that ever came out of the 80’s but it is also not the worse.  No extras are included on the disc, which is OK because at least we got the complete series, not a volumized set.

Synopsis: The legendary videogame Dragon’s Lair was a blockbuster (and quarter guzzling) sensation when it first debuted, spawning sequels, imitators, and a beloved Saturday morning cartoon series. Developed by the powerhouse animation crew put together by Joe Ruby and Ken Spears, the Dragon’s Lair cartoon made many contributions to the Dragon’s Lair saga, from naming the Dragon “Singe” to rounding out the cast with such memorable supporting players as Bertram the horse (voiced by animation legend Peter Cullen) and Timothy the squire (voiced by Michael Mish). Mimicking the action of a videogame, Dragon’s Lair pauses the action and asks the audience which action Dirk should take next in his never-ending quest to protect the kingdom of King Ethelred and his beloved Princess Daphne. But enough talk! Dirk the Daring faces doom throughout this 13 episode, 2-disc set and he needs YOU to help him decide what to do next!

The DVD is now available at the Warner Archive: http://bit.ly/WB_DRAGON

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Narrated by David Attenborough
Directors: Alastair Fothergill
Number of discs: 6
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC
Run Time: 550 minutes

Special Edition: 5 out of 5 stars

When “Planet Earth” premiered in 2007, it changed the meaning of what to expect from a wild-life/nature series.  The show was the most expensive series ever created by the BBC to date and took five years to be filmed.  Back in then it was also the first to be filmed in high definition, which was really just getting popular.  The first time I saw the shark attack the seal on the program using ultra high-speed cameras, it changed my life.  This show prides itself on provided rare captured shot from the most impossible locations with our planet’s wildest and most elusive creatures.  Many good shows have followed this one like “Life” but this series still reigns supreme.

This special edition release takes advance of new features released in high definition technology since the original release. The 6-disc Blu-ray box sets contains over three hours of new bonus materials. Alastair Fothergill who created this series, also created and works on Disneynature films like “Earth” and the recent “African Cats”.  Click here to read our interview with the man himself, Alastair Fothergill.

Let’s get down to some of the new special features included in this release.  First off we get a sneak peak at Alastair’s upcoming project “Frozen Planet”.  If you are fan of commentary it is available on select episodes.  Even though the show is narrated, I really enjoy the commentary because it tells the perspective from the person there in the trenches not just a script being read. “Greatest Planet Earth Moments” is a summation of the best moments from this series and some interesting behind the scenes tips on how the moments were captured.  We go behind the scenes with the BBC Natural History Unit on two features, the first called “Snow Leopard: Beyond the Myth“, which  takes us on a exploration through a cave deep in the mountains of Pakistan to find out about the raising habits of  snow leopards. The second is called “Secrets of the Maya Underworld”  which dives us into freshwater pools in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula that the Mayans believed to be portals to the Underworld.  “Elephant Nomads of the Namib Desert” tells the story of survival for two female elephants and their young vs. the harshest climates on Earth. Overall the features are so fantastic and contain some really phenomenal footage. That is one of the thing that I have loved very much about “Planet Earth” is that the episodes are never boring and are always packed with quality information and visuals.

If you thought that all of that was great wait there is still more prior to this release their was bonus feature only available with the DVD release. With this new Blu-ray section edition, we not get 110 minutes of high definition behind the scenes footage from each episode. Lastly “Planet Earth – The Future”, which is a three talks ultimately about the future for endangered animals, habitats and us.  Fans of nature series that do not own this yet…here is your reason to take the plunge.  This set is worth every penny.

Synopsis: The new, 6-disc Planet Earth Special Edition is also available in this special, limited, numbered collector?s edition globe package! All six discs, plus a set of 4 exclusive art cards featuring some of the most stunning images from the series are housed in a sturdy, weighted globe, numbered for greater collectability. Available with both the DVD and Blu-ray. Planet Earth took the world by storm when it originally aired. It garnered uniformly glowing reviews, won four Emmy Awards, including Best Nonfiction Series and Best Cinematography, and its longevity on the best-seller list is legend. Now, with the addition of all new commentary and new bonus programs, and this totally unique collectible package, you can relive this incredible experience all over again! In this truly special, limited collector?s edition, prepare to be overwhelmed again by the beauty and majesty of Planet Earth.

Official Site:

• http://bit.ly/pH4Qv4
• http://bit.ly/nAUZjd

Planet Earth Play List:

Directed by: Deborah Chow
Starring: Zach Braff, Isabelle Blais, Patrick Labbé
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 97 minutes
Distributed by: Tribeca Film

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I do not think I ever saw one episode of “Scrubs”…but nothing against Zach Braff, just never got into it. For some reason this film stuck out to me and I felt that I should see it. It turns out that this film hits very close to home for me with having a pregnant wife currently…you will find out more about that down below. Tribeca Film has really become a reliable and great distributor and have been releasing some great films. This film has a great story and a wonderful cast, who give some really powerful performances.

The story is about a fast-living drug dealer named Henry (Zach Braff) who accidentally hits a pregnant woman, Nathalie (Isabelle Blais) while driving recklessly and flees the scene. Due to guilt Henry, tracks her down, only to find that she lost her child in the hit and run accident. Henry tries to fix things and make things better, even though she doesn’t known the truth about that night. Is Henry able to save Nathalie or is it too late for both of them.

Zach Braff wasn’t good in this film but REALLY good. It was a very powerful role and he nailed it. Isabelle Blais was very intense and delivers the emotional role quite well. The two of them have great chemistry and really make this film, since it is really only about the two of them. The only bonus features on the disc is an interview with Zach Braff, interesting but not outstanding. That is my only complaint with Tribeca Film DVDs is that they do not pack any of their releases with major extras.

Directed by: Wes Craven
Starring: David Arquette, Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, Emma Roberts, Hayden Panettiere
Distributed by: Dimension Films
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 111 minutes

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

I was a big fan of then first “Scream” film and maybe even the second film, but definitely not the third film. I had trouble re-watching “Scream 3” earlier this year to play catch-up before seeing “Scream 4”. I figured that this new film has to be better than the third…right? New cast but also the original cast returning and Wes Craven directing…sounds like a no brainer. Unfortunately this one is just as lame if not more so than the third film. The twists are predictable and the film plays it very safe and by the book with no major surprises. Overall fans of the “Scream” franchise should stick with the first film and leave this one on the shelves.

The fourth film returns to Woodsboro for the fifteenth anniversary of the original murders. A new Ghostface has its sights on re-creating the murders…again, when Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) returns to Woodsboro to promote her new book. Of course things get personal again and we have a repeat of “Scream 3” just with better technology. Been there done that. Wes Craven seems to really have lost his edge and might want to stick to directing drama like “Music from the Heart” and leave the horror to the pros.

The Blu-ray presentation is solid, looks good for a horror film and the sound delivers the few scares the film does have very well. The special features are decent and are more interesting than the film itself. The best part of this film was the multiple opening scenes references the “Stab” franchise. We get a new “Alternate Opening” and “Alternate Ending”m which are decent. Wes Craven provides a commentary not only for the feature but for the 15+ deleted scenes included. I enjoyed hearing why certain decisions were made…it doesn’t make it any better but still interesting to here someone’s side. We get a “Making Of…” Featurette which is interesting and worth at least one watch. Lastly there is a gag reel, which really doesn’t fit in with the genre but I am sucker for a good laugh.

For those of you who prefer a digital download, it is also included on this Blu-ray release along with a DVD version of the film as well.  “SCREAM 4” is also available for digital download on iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Xbox and Playstation – just in time to get you in the Halloween spirit.
Amazon Prime: http://www.amazon.com/Scream-4/dp/B00552MPS8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1316533335&sr=8-4
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/scream-4/id446341181

Directed by: Alastair Fothergill, Keith Scholey
Narrated by: Samuel L. Jackson
Distributed by: Disneynature
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 89 minutes

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

I have been a big fan of Disneynature’s films since “Earth” and look forward to them each Earth Day. What is different about this film is that it is categorized as a “true life adventure”, which means it actually follows a scripted story in a sense within the real-life footage. The film plays more like an action film than a documentary. It is packed with some good laughs and also some cover you nail moments and bite you nails. I think that film film take’s Disneynature’s series into a new direction.

The film focuses on a young lion cub named Mara being raised by her single mother, Layla. As well as a mother cheetah named Sita who is raising five newborns. Lastly we also follow Fang, the leader who is protecting his pride from a banished lion. Th animals are all put in situations where they must figure out the best way to survive. This is definitely one wild-ride and not just some boring documentary. The co-director Alastair Fothergill also worked on “Earth” and brings his unique vision and story to this film. I am very excited to see his next project with Disneynature called “Chimpanzees”, its looks really cute and funny.

The Blu-ray picture is fantastic and very clear. It is so beautiful that it easily captures every strand of hair from our animals as well as every blade of high grass in the Savannah. The sound is also superb and works well with Samuel L. Jackson’s narration. The special features on this disc are good but not stunning. This film took like five years to make so I was hoping for a backed extras section. The first is called “Filmmaker Annotations” it is a Picture-in-Picture experience with crew interviews, featurettes, additional clips, pop-up trivia and factoids. It is easily the best feature on the disc. “Disney & Nature” is quick feature which looks into the conservation projects and theme park attractions that Disney supports and offers. “Save the Savannah” focuses on the fund-raising associated with “African Cats” and their efforts to preserve lands in the Savannah. Jordan Sparks video is included for another song she did for Disney titled “The World I Knew”. Lastly their are some sneak previews for the next Disneynature film “Chimpanzee” and many more upcoming releases.

Directed by: Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise
Starring: Robby Benson, Paige O’Hara, Richard White, Jerry Orbach, Angela Lansbury, David Ogden Stiers, Bradley Michael Pierce, Jesse Corti and Rex Everhart
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
Running time: 84 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 Stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 Stars

Running of the success of “The Lion King 3D” comes Disney’s latest 3D conversion. I must say that “Beauty and the Beast” has always been one of my favorites in the Disney catalog. The music is just so fun and sweet. I am not sure why Disney did not follow in the footsteps of “The Lion King” and release this 3D version theatrically, since it is just as good if not even a little better in parts for a conversion. Like I said in my review for “The Lion King 3D”, yoy may seem hesitate with 3D conversions recently since every studio are doing it left and right. You also wonder how a film that is almost 20 years old and also being hand drawn animation is going to convert to 3D. Well Disney delivers again a flawless 3D presentation. This film just leaves you wanting more and just proves that Disney knows how to do 3D right and breathes some new amazing detail into this already amazing film.

The presentation on this 3D Blu-ray are just out of this world. If you are fan of Disney even in the slightest then you have obviously seen this film…many…many times. Watching this film on 3D Blu-ray was like I was seeing it for the first time. The detail on the color and pictures were just extraordinary. The ballroom dancing scenes are just the best and so visually vibrant. I think that those were the scenes they even tested the 3D out on to begin with and they are just perfect. Like always Disney provides the best 7.1 surround sound tracks and works so well with the music and songs in the film which are just so magical. If this release isn’t amazing enough it also comes equipped with a special Extended Edition running at 92-minutes along with the included 85-minute theatrical cut.

The special features on the disc are packed as usual since Disney’s extras always aim to pleasure. The first feature is a “Storyreel Picture-in-Picture Experience” where you can view the theatrical cut with a early version of the film that features rough animation, hand-drawn storyboards and other artwork. If you enjoy audio commentary features Producer Don Hahn and co-directors Kirk Wise and Gary Trousdale as they critique the Special Extended Edition. Very interesting commentary and very detailed. The Special Extended Edition offers a “Sing Along Mode” but I am sure everyone knows all of the words already. One of the best features on this set is “Beyond Beauty”, presented in HD and runs almost three hours. It is an interactive, feature-length behind-the-scenes documentary with some amazing bonus content. Also HD fans, we get about 30 minutes of deleted scenes introduced by former Walt Disney Studios chairman Peter Schneider. “Composing a Classic” focuses on composer Alan Menken chatting about the songs and musical score. “Broadway Beginnings” discusses in depth the Broadway adaptation of the film. Jordin Sparks music video for her version of “Beauty and the Beast” is included like in the Diamond Release as well. Kids will surely enjoy “Enchanted Musical Challenge” and “Bonjour – Who Is This?” both interactive games. Rounding down are the classic DVD Bonus Features presented in SD and running just over an hour. Lastly, the sneak previews included on this set are not as good as “The Lion King 3D” and are the same as last year’s “Beauty and the Beast” Blu-ray release.