Directed by: Christopher Leitch
Starring: Jeri Ryan, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Kay Panabaker, Peyton R. List, Ian Kahn
Original channel: Lifetime Movie Network
Distributed by RHI Entertainment
MPAA Rating: Not rated
Running time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Unfortunately this film suffers from made for TV fever. This has the potential of being scary and creepy but it is ends up being too tamed down. This movie originally aired on the Lifetime Channel and would work well for housewives that aren’t fans of horror. It falls into the same genre as the TV series “Ghost Whisperer”, which also is a show I never enjoyed.

The story focuses on a single mom, Rachel Easton, and her two daughters as their move into this big beautiful house. Although this house has a secret and the family will soon uncover a horrifying secret of what happened in the house years ago. Rachel needs to fight in order to save her family.

Overall there is no scares in this film at all. It looses its steam after a few and doesn’t regain it. If you are a fan of that type of show or Jeri Ryan in general, then this might be for you. Horror fans looking for a scare need to steer clear. Any hopes to special features are let down as well because this DVD includes no extras at all.

Director:Jeff Santo
Stars: Troy Duffy, Nick Nicholson, Sanel Budimlic, David Della Rocco, Keith Jackson, Bob Rubin, & Jeff Santo.
Santo Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 96 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Off The Boulevard” is not only an entertaining film and but also a very informative documentary. It shows how is to be independent in the entertainment business or in life in general. The film follow seven artists: two musicians (Keith Jackson, Nick Nicholson), two filmmakers (Jeff Santo, Troy Duffy), two actors (David della Rocco, Sanel Budimlic), and one comedian (Bob Rubin). It shows that no matter what you are trying to accomplish in life, it is a struggle especially when working independently. It is definitely aimed to inspire people out there to keep trying in their careers and doing what they love.

The director Jeff Santo is known best for his film “Liar’s Poker” but he also has been burned many times by the system. Troy Duffy, the creator of “The Boondock Saints” is the same way. He had has many struggles after making the first “The Boondock Saints” and his side is told here. The musicians in the film Keith Jackson, Nick Nicholson, strive in the business to get their music heard. Bob Rubin is a comic that just want his jokes to be heard. We visit the life of David della Rocco, who is a struggling independent actor. Sanel Budimlic escaped the Bosnian War to come to America with hopes to live as an actor. Besides the seven artists, the film also reaches out to other industry well-knowns such as: Dan Haggerty (Grizzly Adams), Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds), Peter Fonda (Easy Rider) and Sonny Barger (Hell’s Angels). They give advice and life lessons about the meaning of being and working independently.

I must acknowledge that Jeff Santo sure did a great job directing this documentary.  The editing is fantastic and the film is well paced. Since the film is focusing on two musicians, one punk rock and the other country…you know the film is going to have some kick ass tunes in it for sure. If you are into film-making, especially independent then this is a must see for you. Click here to support being independent and pick up a copy of this film. Spread the word!

Directed by: Henry Selick
Starring: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O’Hara, William Hickey, Glenn Shadix, Ken Page
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG
Running time: 76 minutes

3D Blu-ray Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

I have been a fan of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” since the first time I saw it in the theaters in 1993. Since then it has captivated audiences and became a major cult classic. In 2006, it was put back into theaters with new added 3D technology…I was in heaven. Since then it was also released in 2007 through 2009 in 3D during the Halloween season. So when the news was announced that Disney was releasing this film on its pristine Disney 3D Blu-Ray, I was out of my mind. I have to say, I have seen this film probably 100 times but watching it on 3D Blu-Ray was like it was the first time again. I was seeing new things that I have never seen before and hearing things I have never heard before. The picture quality was so clear and bright (despite the fact that most of the film is dark and black). The music was so fantastic in glorious 7.1 surround sound, which Disney never fails to include. I think my neighbors windows shattered for sure with the volume I watched it at. Let me just say that since I received this Blu-Ray, I have in fact watched it 5 times and it is not even September yet. I might need to go out and purchase a new one before Christmas due to wear. If you do not have a 3D TV or Blu-ray, now might be the time to start things about it because this is a release that you do not want to miss.

The extras on this disc are jam packed and are similar to the 2008 release. First there is audio commentary by producer Tim Burton, director Henry Selick and composer Danny Elfman from 2008 and it was actually recorded separately. Christopher Lee reads “Tim Burton’s Original Poem”, which inspired the film and is backed by animated concept art. “The Making of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a six-chapter 1993 television special that covers the development, overall production and of course the music of the film. “The Worlds of The Nightmare Before Christmas” focuses on its three production settings “Halloween Town”, “Christmas Town” and “The Real World” with concept art and character designs. There are three deleted storyboards, “Behemoth Singing,” “Oogie Boogie with Dancing Bugs” and “Alternate Identity of Oogie Boogie”. There are also four fully animated deleted scenes, “Jack’s Scientific Experiments,” “Vampire Hockey Players,” “Lock, Shock and Barrel” and “Oogie Boogie Shadow Dance.” Next up is a feature called “Storyboard to Film Comparisons” it is a short comparison, nothing special. “What’s This? Jack’s Haunted Mansion Holiday Tour” shows how The Haunted Mansion attraction gets a “Nightmare Before Christmas” redux. Fans of Time Burton will be happy to have the “Frankenweenie” and “Vincent” shorts, even though they are not in HD. Lastly there are the film’s teaser and theatrical trailers and a gallery of “Nightmare” posters. These are some amazing special features even though nothing is new for this release.

Directed by: Panna Rittikrai
Starring: Gitabak Agohjit, Speedy Arnold and Supakson Chaimongkol
Distributed by: Magnolia Pictures
Running time 105 minutes

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

Right off the bat since this film is directed by Panna Rittikrai (“Ong Bak” Series & “Born To Fight”), it immediately has my attention. Unfortunately once they try and introduce a ridiculous plot into this film, they lost my attention. I understand that in these films you are really only suppose to focus on the fighting but I had a hard time with the terrible sub-plot. The film definitely contains some amazing death-defying action and a huge range of martial arts techniques from Muay Thai to Kung Fu to Tai Chi. Fans of martial arts film and specifically the “Ong Bak” series, check this out but only for the fighting and not the story.

The story focuses on a group of friends who are in a fight club who are trying out for a TV show but it turns out to be a life or death game. The game is that people are bidding against them to win or lose and they are left fighting for their life. They must join forces and fight for their lives and also rescue their kidnapped friend in the process. Of course there is twists and turns but overall all you really need to care about is the fight scenes. The sub-plot is so cheesy and laughable that I had a hard time focusing on the action.

The Blu-Ray presentation is one of the best parts of the disc. The picture is crisp and clear. The sound is bone-breathtakingly good. I mean you literally hear the fighting like it is in your living room. The extras are lacking a bit but include “The Making of BKO: Bangkok Knockout” and “Behind the Scenes”. These two features are essential for an action film because you get to see how they did all these amazing stunts and fights scenes. Also included is a trailer to the film. Overall worth at least one watch but repeat value is just not there.

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Directed by: Nick Tomnay
Starring: David Hyde Pierce, Clayne Crawford
MPAA Rating: R
running Time: 93 minutes
Distributed by: Magnolia Pictures

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

I would categorize this film as a dark comedy and its quite dark but also quite funny. David Hyde Pierce gives one of the best performances of his career. He is funny. He is creepy. He just is perfect for the role. He even has this fantastic walk throughout the film. The Blu-ray presentation is top-notch. The picture is great and the sound plays perfectly between the music and dialogue.

The story focuses on John Taylor (Crawford) a criminal that is on the run after committing a major crime. He face is all over the news and he decides to hide out in the house of Warwick Wilson (Pierce). When things get out of control, John takes things to the next level but finds out that he might be in well over his head.  The story is spaced very well until the end when it switches gears and gets a little lost.  It tries a little too hard to be smart then it needs to but overall it succeeds on most accounts.

The only real special feature on the disc is “Making of The Perfect Host”. It runs about 10 minutes and features writer/director/editor Nick Tomnay talks about his 26 minute black-and-white short that he expanded into this feature-length film. Also included is “HDNet: A Look at The Perfect Host”, which is basically an extended trailer with a few short interviews. Lastly there is the trailer attached. Overall good movie, disappointing extras.

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Directed by: Bears Fonte
Starring: Sara E.R. Fletcher
Sure Crossing Films
Rated: N/A
Runtime: 103 min.

Our Score: 3 out of 5

“iCrime” is a technology based thriller directed by Bears Fonte. The film follows its lead character Carrie Kevin (Sara E.R. Fletcher) a small town girl new to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood as she attempts to uncover the truth behind a missing online star. As the story progresses Carrie starts to find that things in Hollywood are not always what they appear to be.

Though “iCrime” is somewhat of a slow starter the film wasn’t half bad. “iCrime” is your typical small town girl moves to Hollywood to become famous type story however with a slight twist that involves a kidnapped internet star. “iCrime” has no shortages of good looking actresses which in my opinion made up for the films quirky approach which at times seemed to be a blend of half after school special and half late night cable flick. I enjoyed the use of different recognizable locations around the Pasadena area such as South Pasadena High School which was also featured in John Carpenter’s horror classic “Halloween”. If you are looking for a fun movie to watch with friends or on your own give “iCrime” a shot.

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Director: Daron Ker
Starring: Joe Cook, Phil Beaudoin and Mike Griffin
Water Buffalo Pictures
Runtime: 74 minutes

Our score: 3.5 out 5 stars

“Rice Field of Dreams” written and directed by Daron Ker is a documentary about Joe Cook and a team of 22 Cambodian Baseball players brought together as one team to play and compete as the first ever Cambodian National Baseball team. With the help of Major League baseball and several coaches from North America the team prepares for its first attempt at bringing baseball glory home to Cambodia. The bottom line is take 74 minutes out of your schedule and check out this film.

“Rice Field of Dreams” was a great film that not only showcased the triumphs and struggles of the first ever Cambodian National Baseball team but it also showed some of the past struggles for people who lived in Cambodia. Director Daron Ker a native of Cambodia really made a great film which as he puts it in the start of the film is not a typical “feel good” story instead the film is a straight forward documentary which shows the positives and the negatives of those in the film. Throughout the film you get to hear both players and coaches reactions to certain events and what they hope to get out of the experience. Though the film is centered on the baseball team you don’t have to be a fan or have an understanding of the game to appreciate this film.

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Director: Mike Schneider
Neoflux Productions
Runtime: 101 minutes

Our score 3.5 out 5 stars

“Night of the Living Dead: Reanimated” directed by Mike Schneider is an animated film version of the 1968 George Romero film. The film features work by various artists, animators and filmmakers from around the world who together created an animated revision of the horror classic “Night of the Living Dead”. Through various mediums such as animation, clay-mation and puppetry the joint group of artist tell the classic story of Barbara and her unlikely encounter with the undead while adding a fresh comedic twist to the films original story.

This revision of George Romero’s horror staple was spot on. It also had some added laughs which were provided by some really great animation and clay-mation additions. “Night of the Living Dead: Reanimated” was filmed entirely in black and white which kept it true to the 1968 original.

About 2 minutes into the film I really stopped paying attention to the story and focused all my attention on the different artist interpretations of the scenes depicted in the film. Various types of sketches ranging from stick figures to extremely detailed drawings made this film really fun to watch. My personal favorite would have to be the clay-mation scenes which were very reminiscent of Sunday morning “David and Goliath” episodes. This film yielded a fun and enjoyable film to watch alone or with friends. Get your hands on a copy of this film, kickback and, prepare for a good time.

Directed by: Faye Jackson
Starring: Constantin Barbulescu, Camelia Maxim, Catalin Paraschiv
Distributed by: Breaking Glass Pictures
Rated N/A
Running Time: 105 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

After seeing the promo poster for “Strigoi” I was somewhat excited to sit down and watch the film. However I guess I shouldn’t have gotten my hopes up as “Strigoi” was nothing but a dull drawn out attempt at a dark comedy/horror/vampire film. The films basic concept was nothing new as it was your typical story of a town turning on two of its residents and killing them. The two then return from the grave as extremely hungry vampires hell bent on carry out their revenge on the towns people responsible for their deaths. “Stigoi” was in my opinion just really hard to figure out what type of film I was watching and how I should take the characters. At times there were touches of comedy but then the film would take an extremely dark serious turn leaving the previous scene in question as to whether or not it was in the right film.

“Strigoi” written and directed by Faye Jackson is the story of Vlad (Catalin Paraschiv) a fledgling med school student who returns to his grandfather’s village after a trip to Italy. Upon his return Vlad stumbles across an odd cast of characters that all seem to be hiding something. Determined to get to the bottom of the strange occurs in the small Romanian town Vlad quickly finds that he may be up against something other than just odd towns people. “Strigoi” had potential however I think the film would have been a bit more accessible if the director had focused on one genre and maybe have jumped on the whole vampire band wagon.

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Directed by: Rania Ajami
Starring: Pepper Binkley, Bill Dawes and Judith Hawking
Crowned Heart Pictures/Kinetic Arts Production
Rated: N/A
Runtime: 104 min.

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5

“Asylum Seekers” a dark comedy written and directed by Rania Ajami is the story of six people who have decided they can no longer deal with daily life. In an effort to get a hold on reality the six people attempt to check themselves into a lushly appointed asylum. What the six people don’t know is that there is only one room for which they must compete against each other to gain access.

“Asylum Seekers” seems like a psychedelic experiment gone bad! It’s as if the director crammed everything odd or awkward into this 104 minute spectacle. The acting in my opinion was sub-par at best however it was quickly overshadowed by the oddness of the film. “Asylum Seekers” has an interesting storyline and is full of interesting characters. If you’re in the mood for something off the wall then this movie will do the trick!

Directed by: Daron Ker
Distributed: Water Buffalo Pictures
Rated: N/A
Runtime: 82 min.

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars/strong>

“I Ride” directed by Daron Ker is a documentary about The Fryed Brothers Band which is a country rock band that formed in 1982. The band has been dubbed “The Most Dangerous Biker Band in the World” due to their affiliation with several outlaw motorcycle groups. “I Ride” documents the band from their beginnings as well focusing on their place within the motorcycle ranks.

“I Ride” is an interesting film on motorcycle culture. The film doesn’t solely look at the people who ride motorcycles but it focuses on a band that is followed by motorcyclist. Filming this way I think allowed Director Damon Ker to show an interesting perspective that until now has not been seen by anyone outside of the groups featured in the film. The Fryed Brothers Band has a great story and the film helps show that story. They were a great choice making Ker’s decision to focus the film around them a great one! If you have a chance check out “I Ride”.

Directed by: Brian Pimental
Starring, Alexander Gould, Patrick Stewart, Brendon Baerg, Nicky Jones, Andrea Bowen, Anthony Ghannam & Cree Summer
Distributed by: Buena Vista
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 72 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Do not even try to compare “Bambi II” to “Bambi”, it is just not possible. This film is considered a midquel since it takes place in between in the middle of the original. Disney went through a phase a while ago when it would produce these midquel follow-ups to its classic films. Some of the films that were explored were “Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas”, “The Lion King 1½”, “Tarzan II”. and “The Fox and the Hound 2”. They are all sub-par for Disney and do not rank even close to their original films. “Bambi II” is a cute kids film that will introduce a new audience to “Bambi” who maybe weren’t aware of the original. Even though it enjoyable let’s just say I am happy that Disney cut it out making these direct to video films.

The film begins after Bambi’s mother is killed by hunters and he has to follow in the footsteps of his father, the Great Prince of the Forest. This story features Bambi’s best friends Thumper, Flower and Faline. Bambi has to prove to his father that he can become the leader of the forest. In the quest to find and rescue his dad, he has to lead and also protect his friends. It includes some life-learning for kids and overall they will enjoy it. This Blu-ray release includes a beautiful colorful video which really shines and also includes an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio track. This worth the purchase alone if you are a fan of Disney animation films

The extras on this are ok but not spectacular, especially not for Disney. The first feature is called “The Legacy Continues” it runs less than 10 minutes and features the cast and crew discussing the original film’s legacy, the development of the story and characters and the film’s production. There is a deleted song called “Sing the Day”. There are four interactive games and activities including “Friend Owl’s Forest Fun”, new to Blu-ray and “Thumper’s Hurry and Scurry”, which was included on the DVD. There is a feature called “Disney Sketch Pad”, which showcases animator Andreas Deja giving tips about getting started in animation. Lastly there is a pop-up trivia track, called “Bambi’s Trivia Tracks” aimed for kids.

Directors: Andre Ovredal
Starring: Otto Jespersen, Robert Stoltenberg, Knut Naerum, Glenn Erland Tosterud, Johanna Maerck
Studio: Magnolia Home Entertainment
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 103 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4.5 out of 5 stars

If you haven’t heard about this movie buy now just trust me and purchase this Blu-ray. It is available for only 14.99 on Amazon.com, you will not disappointed. “Trollhunter” is very unique film and takes a well used format and puts a new spin on it. I have seen this film a few times now and it seems to get better each time. It follows in the path films like “The Blair Witch Project” and “Paranormal Activity” and is filmed as found footage. It is packed with comedy, a few good scares and also great special effects. The Blu-ray comes with an English dub but I would steer clear and go with the original audio track. Overall this is a must for genre fans.

The film follows a group of students so are making a film about trolls. They meet what they believe is a troll hunter and follow him around. While they are not expecting to find anything, they are shocked with what they encounter on this trip. The film is obvious low budget but they do not make the trolls look that way. I would say this looks like a multi-million dollar project. I have watched numerous (and I mean numerous) SyFy original movies and I know low-budget SFX. The Blu-ray presentation of this film only adds to the beauty of this film. Now understand the film is meant to be shot on handheld video so it is not “Avatar” but it looks really clear. Any imperfections were purposefully done during the filming process. The sound is definitely notable especially when the trolls start…well…trolling around.

The special features are jam packed. The deleted scenes include five scenes which run about 4 minutes and include one called “Troll Hairball”, can only imagine. Since the film is cast with Norwegian comedies you could expect improv and bloopers. There are two short improv scenes and also a quick blooper reel, definitely funny stuff. The extended scenes are about 8 minutes long and focus on three longer scenes from the film. There is a feature called on the visual effects of the film, which drew me immediately and it featured a breakdowns of several of the CGI shots and also focused on the different kinds of trolls. The behind the scenes, which ran almost 25 minutes, is a collection of clips from the shoot showing the cast and crew goofing off, prepping shots. This must have been a fun film to work on. Photo Galleries includes troll sketches and of troll habitats. Lastly HDNet: A Look at The Troll Hunter is promo featuring some clips, and a some sound-bite interviews. Jam-packed like I said huh?

Directed by: Elliott Lester
Starring: Jason Statham, Paddy Considine, Aidan Gillen, David Morrissey, Zawe Ashton
Distributed by: Millennium Entertainment
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 97 minutes

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

Jason Statham knows how to kick some ass. He has proved that time and time again since “The Transporter”. This film is no different, he kicks some major ass and looks mad cool when he is doing it. I am surprised that this film did not get more of a theatrical push in North America because it is quite better than Statham’s recent films. The story is great, it is action packed, ultra-violent and definitely keeps you entertained the whole time.

The story follows Detective Sergeant Tom Brant (Jason Statham) who does not follow anyone’s rules but his own. He is known for his brutality against his victims and has been warned by his department. Tom is put on a case where a crazy killer named Blitz is going around killing cops, just for the fun of it. Tom needs to find out who Blitz is before it is too late. He also finds out that he is more connected to the case than he knows.

This film is smart, sleek and packs a hell of a punch. Jason Statham is especially great in this film as the kick ass copy avenger. I wasn’t too thrilled with him since his role in “The Expendables” but this redeemed his ass kicking status. Another notable performance was Aidan Gillen who plays the killer Blitz. His performance was haunting, yet funny and also very intense.

The Blu-ray presentation is very crisp and the sound is bone-breaking clear. The extras on the disc are decent including a UK theatrical trailer, cast and crew interviews, behind the scenes and additional previews. The interviews are interesting to watch, brief but definitely worth a watch. The behind the scenes is also great because a film like this has a lot of stunt coordination and it is great to see how it all comes together. This film is definitely worth a watch if not a purchase.

Directed by: Scott Rosenbaum
Starring: Kevin Zegers, Jason Ritter, Peter Fonda, Taryn Manning
Red Hawk Films
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 92 minutes

Our Score 3.5 out of 5 stars

Music is a big inspiration in my life and I am always jump at the chance to see a good music road-movie. That is what this film is a good music road-movie. You can tell when you watch the film that it is a real labor of love from director Scott Rosenbaum. He has put many years into this film and that is what makes this film unique. Most music films are cliche but this one makes a stand and stand aside from the others. Great performances only add more to this film…and it is one intense journey through the world of music.

Rock star Spyder (Kevin Zegers) is looking to record his band’s third album and seeks long lost childhood friend, Eric Genson (Jason Ritter) for help. Spyder is struggling and burnt out after the flop of his sophomore album. Eric agrees to help Spyder as long as they do it his way. The guys set out on a cross country journey from Long Island, NY to Los Angeles, CA. Accompanying the band is their manager (Taryn Manning), the legendary August West (Peter Fonda). As they travel along historic Route 66 it makes them realize what their journey truly means and what they are looking for in music and life.

The film is not all fun and games and is quite gritty and intense. It shows the ups but also a whole lot of downs as the group travels. The acting in this film is so key to this film working and it really succeeds. Kevin Zegers is dark and channels his goth rocker quite well. Jason Ritter is emotional and really sells this performance. Peter Fonda aces his character in the film as always as the aged but still cool rocker. I look forward to Scott Rosenbaum next feature to see what he draws up after this successful debut. Music fans keep an eye out for blues legends Pinetop Perkins, Hubert Sumlin and Sugar Blue.

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