“The Garbage Pail Kids Movie” Collector’s Edition
Blu-Ray, DVD
Rated: PG
Studio: Shout! Factory
Film Run Time: 97 minutes

Media Mikes Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

It Doesn’t Get Any Grosser Than This… Especially in High-Definition! Your favorite grime bandits come to life in this hilarious film full of “gross-out humor” (The New York Times). Based on the wildly trading cards, “The Garbage Pail Kids Movie” stars Mackenzie Astin (Iron Will, Wyatt Earp) as a perfectly nice teenager who discovers the Kids…to his great disgust! When the kids are accidentally released from their magical trash can prison, all smell breaks loose. Despite their offensive personal habits – and attitude problems – Dodger (Astin) soon becomes fond of the Kids. But when Messy Tessie, Foul Phil, Valerie Vomit and the whole crew join his fight against thuggish bullies, their efforts just might land them behind bars!

Upon hearing that “The Garbage Pail Kids Movie” was getting a Collector’s Edition release I couldn’t wait to check it out in person. I remember renting this movie from the local video store and watching it over and over until we had to return it sometimes just to re-rent it. The latest version of the film’s release which I picked up in Blu-Ray format didn’t really add to the films initial quality including added clarity or sound as portions of the film still remained a bit grainy and the sound a touch on the tinny side however I found those minuet short coming only added to the films appeal as it was a bit reminiscent of the worn out VHS rental cassettes of the mid/late 80’s. It was great to see classic characters such as Ali Gator, Messy Tessy and of course my personal favorite Windy Winston.

As an added bonus to the collector’s edition there are several really cool sections which includes new interviews with the films Special Makeup Effects Creator John Carl Buechler and Makeup Effects Artist Gino Crognale as well as with the films lead Mackenzie Astin, Arturo Gil (Windy Winston) And Kevin Thompson (Ali Gator) among some other great features. Once again the great people at Shout! Factory delivers with this 80’s classic which I couldn’t be happier with.

Actors: Bill Bixby, Ray Waltson
Directors: John L. Greene (Creator)
Number of discs: 15
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
DVD Release Date: October 20, 2015
Run Time: 3000 minutes

Series: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

Sad to admit but my first exposure to “My Favorite Martian” was the 1996 feature film starring Christopher Lloyd and Jeff Daniels. After watching that I became aware of the much better original 1960s supernatural sitcom series. For the first time ever MPI is releasing the complete series of this show in a collector’s set and packed it full with hours of rare extras. This DVD set features all 107 complete, unedited, digitally remastered episodes from the show’s three seasons. If you are a fan of this series, this is an amazing collection and very reasonable priced as well (Running around $60.00 on Amazon).

Official Premise: Originally airing on CBS-TV from 1963 to 1966 (and debuting in the top 10 in its premiere season), MY FAVORITE MARTIAN marked the beginning of television’s fascination with fantasy-themed comedy series. It stars Bill Bixby (The Courtship Of Eddie’s Father, The Incredible Hulk) as newspaper reporter Tim O’Hara and Ray Walston (South Pacific, Fast Times at Ridgemont High) as the perfectly human-looking Martian whom Tim discovers and passes off as his Uncle Martin. Pamela Britton (TV’s Blondie) plays their snoopy landlady, Lorelei Brown.

This show was known for also bringing in many beloved TV actors to make guest appearances including Linda Evans, Marlo Thomas, Alan Hale Jr., Gavin MacLeod, Jamie Farr, Stafford Repp, Richard Deacon, Madge Blake, Bernie Kopell, Butch Patrick, Henry Gibson, Allan Melvin, Michael Constantine, Pat Priest, David White and Madge Redmond. The episodes are presented in 1:33:1 full frame with Dolby Digital mono. Simple yet the black and white of the episodes look great and the sound effects some through well.

Now on to the extras! There are some great special features included here. “Ray Walston on I’ve Got a Secret” features the actor on the game show sponsored by Dream Whip! There is a Ray Walston TV Commercial with him pitching aluminum. There is a collection of promo pics from the series as well as comic strip from dozens of pages from the funny pages. “The Reluctant Eye” is failed pilot starring Bobby Van, which was included since it was made by “Martian” producer Jack Chertok. “The Man in the Square Suit” is another sitcom episode starring Paul Dooley (The Electric Company & Breaking Away) in the lead.

“Soundtrack Music Album” includes dozens of track from the show’s score. Some of my favorites are watching the “Original Sponsors Spots” including ads for Rice Krispies, Corn Flakes, Paper Mate Pens and Toni, the home perm! There are some Vintage Cast Interviews with Ray Waltson. “Behind the Scenes Home Movies” features the cast having fun at the Desilu Studios. There are some cool “Spaceship Miniature Test Footage” as well as an “Animation & Effects Reel”. Lastly “Let’s Talk to Lucy” is a vintage radio show with interviews from Bill Bixby and Ray Walston.

Actors: Robin Williams, Gilbert Gottfried, Scott Weinger, Linda Larkin, Jonathan Freeman
Directors: Bill Perkins, John Musker, Ron Clements
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: October 13, 2015
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

“Aladdin” was and will always be one of my all-time favorite Disney films. I saw this film in theaters with I was a kid and fell in love. I was also a huge fan of the Sega Genesis game and TV series growing up as well. There is just so much magic packed into this film. The music. The animation. Robin Williams. It is simply perfect. Watching this film definitely makes me miss Robin a lot! He was a comedy genius in his prime and luckily will never be forgotten! My favorite part of this film arriving on Blu-ray this year is that I am able to now introduce it to my 3 1/2 year old daughter, who has no become quite obsessed with it as well. So my job as a dad is done as far as I am concerned. This is a must own for any Disney fan, PERIOD!

Official Premise: Climb aboard for a magical carpet ride with nonstop laughs, action-packed adventure and Academy Award(R)-winning music that will make your heart soar (1992: Best Music, Original Song, “A Whole New World,” Original Score). Now for the first time ever, a whole new world of Disney’s ALADDIN is revealed in a whole new way on Blu-ray and Digital HD — with never-before-seen bonus! With the help of a hysterically funny, shape-shifting, 10,000-year-old Genie, street-smart commoner Aladdin and clever, confident Princess Jasmine join forces against the evil sorcerer Jafar to put an end to his plans to take over the kingdom!

Disney released this Diamond Edition as a combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD copies included. Let me tell you I was simply blown away with the animation in high definition. The colors are just unbelievable. Everything about this movie just shines in 1080p. I am glad they waited this long to release this film because it looks like they really gave this film some good loving. Same goes for Disney’s DTS Master Audio 7.1 track, which perfectly showcases the songs that we all know and love for all those years. Simply perfect. No other way to describe it, honestly.

The special are fantastic editions to this already wonderful Blu-ray. I absolutely loved watching “The Genie Outtakes”. Robin Williams bloopers with his famous character are magically. “Genie 101” features Scott Weinger (the voice of Aladdin) as the host discussing the character. “Ron & John: You Ain’t Never Had a Friend Like Me” features the two directors, John Musker & Ron Clements, talking about the film. “Aladdin: Creating Broadway Magic” focuses on the stage play with host Darren Criss. “Unboxing Aladdin” explores Easter eggs and hidden secrets with  Joey Bragg from Disney Channel’s Liv & Maddy. Lastly there are also ALL classic bonus from the original DVD releases. There are also some extras bonus extras included if you use Disney Movies Anywhere.

Actors: Bret Iwan, Tony Anselmo, Russi Taylor, Tress MacNeille, Bill Farmer
Studio: Buena Vista Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: September 8, 2015
Run Time: 115 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Mickey’s Monster Musical” is the latest special released out of “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse”. This combined two of my daughters favorite things “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and Halloween. This DVD includes four very fun episodes that work great getting you into the Fall mood. My daughter has already been singing the songs from this special and has watched it numerous times already. I know that “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” is not in production any more, which is sad, but I hope they continue to release DVD sets like this one for a while. Hopefully they have them stored up somewhere. A must for any fan of “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and Halloween.

Official Premise: Put on your favorite Halloween costume and get set for a spooktacular full-length adventure! Visit the creaky castle of kindly “Count Mickula” and help your Clubhouse pals solve a puzzling riddle: Who, or what, is making a curious clanging, banging noise? With the right Monster Mouseketools and help from YOU, this mystery will soon be history! Then, enjoy two more exciting episodes as you search for pirate treasure with Captain Mickey and don your dungarees for delightful fun down on the farm. Packed with singing, dancing, laughter and surprises, MICKEY’S MONSTER MUSICAL is a high-spirited treat that can’t be beat!

The four episodes included are the main showcase special “Mickey’s Monster Musical”. The premise for this one is that Clubhouse gang visits Count Mickula and his friends, who are full of mystery and fun spooks. Next up is “Mickey’s Pirate Adventure”, where Goofy gets a letter from his Grandpappy, Captain Goof-Beard (voiced by Dick Van Dyke) taking the gang on a fun pirate adventure. “Mickey’s Farm Fun Fair” follows the gang as they enjoy a fun farm celebration. Lastly “Minnie’s Bow-Tooons Tricky Treats” is a bonus included with Minnie and Daisy handing out sticky treats for Halloween.

Starring: John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks, Paul Giamatti, Jake Abel, Kenny Wormald
Director: Bill Pohlad
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: LIONSGATE
Release Date: September 15, 2015
Run Time: 111 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

The Beach Boys are not one of my favorite bands. Let’s set the story straight here to start. When their music comes on the radio, usually I change the channel. I do though love anything that John Cusack is in. Both the acting from Cusack and Paul Dano are really sharp. Rounding out the cast include also the amazing Elizabeth Banks and Paul Giamatti. Honestly for acting alone this is worth a view. Plus “Pet Sounds” is probably one of the more easier to listen to of the bands album, since it focuses around it’s origin. If you are a hardcore Beach Boys fan, check it out for sure.

Official Premise: Love & Mercy is an unconventional portrait of Brian Wilson (portrayed by both John Cusack and Paul Dano), singer and songwriter for The Beach Boys. The film intimately examines the unique journey and ultimate salvation of this musical icon, whose success came at an extraordinary personal cost.

The Blu-ray comes with an Digital HD copy as well. The 1080p transfer is solid even though the film was shot to look old and grainy at certain times on purpose it all worked out. Of course with a film about music, the sound is very important. Well, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track delivers quite well. Between Atticus Ross score and clips of various Beach Boys and Wilson songs they are well represented.

In the special feature department, things are a little less interesting. There is a decent and pretty informative commentary with Bill Pohlad, the Director/Producer and Oren Moverman, the Executive Producer/Co-Writer. “A California Story: Creating the Look of Love & Mercy” looks into recreating the settings and the music for the film. “A Side/B Side: Portraying the Life of Brian Wilson” is solid and runs nearly 30 minutes with some interviews and archival footage of Wilson. Lastly there are a few deleted scenes included.

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Actors: Samuel L. Jackson, Ray Stevenson, Victor Garber, Felicity Huffman, Ted Levine
Format: Blu-ray, Widescreen
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Starz / Anchor Bay
DVD Release Date: August 25, 2015
Run Time: 87 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

Samuel L. Jackson playing the President of the United States?! Sounds like a winner! “Big Game” is a fun film but it is also a very simple film. It is a straightforward tribute to 80s/90s adventure movies. It is definitely predictable and the a bit generic but at the same time it is fun due to its simplicity. Other than Jackson, the film posts an impressive cast including Onni Tommila (Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale), Ray Stevenson (Insurgent, Starz’ “Black Sails”), Victor Garber (Argo, Starz’ “Power”), Ted Levine (Shutter Island, American Gangster), Felicity Huffman (Cake, Transamerica) and Jim Broadbent (Cloud Atlas). All together this makes this film worth checking out as a rental.

Official Premise: In the rugged countryside of Finland, a young thirteen-year-old (Onni Tommila) embarks on a traditional quest to prove himself by spending twenty-four hours alone in the wild, armed with only a bow and arrow. After witnessing a spectacular crash, he discovers the escape pod from Air Force One, containing the President of the United States (Samuel L. Jackson). When they realize a group of kidnappers is hot on their trail with the intention of taking the president, this unlikely duo must escape their hunters as they search for the American Special Forces team sent out to find them.

The Blu-ray itself both looks and sounds great. The 1080p transfer really highlights all the films beautiful shooting locations and action scenes. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works well with the big scope of the film. The only “special feature” included is an unrated cut of the film (not really a special feature though). The PG-13 cut runs just over 86 minutes while the unrated version runs about 90 minutes, so there is a little more there but nothing life changing plus the unrated cut features only a Dolby Digital 2.0 audio track, so it is definitely not the ideal way to view the film.

Actors: Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Seamus Dever, Jon Huertas, Tamala Jones
Number of discs: 5
Studio: Walt Disney Studios
DVD Release Date: September 1, 2015
Run Time: 982 minutes

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

It is really rare for a show to last seven seasons and then actually still be good. “Castle” is a show that gets better with each season. The cast rounds one one of the best ensembles for a show on television. Season seven was easily the best season to date. It featured our couple Castle and Beckett finally getting married, which was a great culmination of the seven seasons. I just love how this show was developed over the years and never ceases to include non-stop laughs as well as very intense drama. This show really knows how to blend the two so well. I can’t wait to see what they have planned for season eight. Bring it on guys! No slowing down!

Official Season Premise: The wedding bells are ringing, but will Castle and Beckett really tie the knot? An astonishing turn of events tears television’s most lovable couple apart in a captivating new season of ABC’s beloved and inspired series. Experience every unforgettable moment with Castle: The Complete Seventh Season. On the biggest day of his life, Castle is nowhere to be found…and it’s not because he has cold feet. Now, in a season of brilliant twists and turns, Castle and Beckett take on New York City’s most fascinating cases while they try to solve the mystery of their own relationship. Join them as they hunt for an “Invisible Man,” travel to the Old West and witness the return of their deadly rival, Dr. Kelly Nieman.

Even though ABC has never released this series on Blu-ray, this DVD has some good special features for us hardcore “Castle” fans. There are two audio commentary tracks included. The first is on the episode, “Driven” with Director Rob Bowman, cast Jon Huertas and Seamus Dever, and Writer David Amann. The other episode is “Reckoning” with Nathan Fillion and Michael Mosley, Creator/Executive Producer/Writer Andrew W. Marlowe and Executive Producer/Director Rob Bowman. There is an uncut webmerical for “Raging Heat” included, which is great.

There is an outstanding never-before-seen DVD exclusive music video created by Ryan and Esposito for Castle and Beckett’s wedding called “Definition of Love” performed under the name of Shay-Jean The Dynamic Duo.  Ryan and Esposito are two of my favorite characters ever and this video is absolutely amazing! Next is “The Cast Behind The Cast”, which goes into the shows background and stand-ins for “Castle” and their essential role in the show introduced by the cast. Lastly, there are some bloopers and deleted scenes, which are a fantastic treat for any fan of the show. You can tell that this cast really has a blast on this show.

Actors: Blake Lively, Michiel Huisman, Kathy Baker, Harrison Ford, Ellen Burstyn
Directors: Lee Toland Krieger
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: LIONSGATE
Release Date: September 8, 2015
Run Time: 112 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Blake Lively is definitely one of Hollywood most underrated actors. She is goregous firstly and secondly she can really act. “The Age of Adaline” was lost in the midst of a wave of summer blockbusters. It is a romantic film but it has this magical quality about it that really interested me throughout. I really though that the two leads also had good chemistry and really clicked. Other than  Blake Lively (“Gossip Girl”), she is joined by Michiel Huisman (“Game of Thrones”), Kathy Baker (“Edward Scissorhands”), Harrison Ford (“Star Wars”) and Ellen Burstyn (“Requiem for a Dream”)! Sick cast right? Definitely worth checking out.

Official Premise: After miraculously remaining 29 years old for almost eight decades, Adaline Bowman (Blake Lively) has lived a solitary existence, never allowing herself to get close to anyone who might reveal her secret. But a chance encounter with charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman) reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford and Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, Adaline makes a decision that will change her life forever.

“The Age of Adaline” is released as a Blu-ray Combo Pack with a DVD and digital copy included.  The 1080p transfer looks amazing through all the different generations that Adaline experiences. The winner is definitely the Dolby TrueHD audio which features a Dolby Atmos® soundtrack, which really works with the period explored in the film. The special features are decent as well including deleted scenes, three features entitled “A Love Story for the Ages”, “Style Throughout the Ages” and “Discovering Young Harrison Ford: Anthony Ingruber, An Online Sensation”. Lastly there is  an audio commentary with the director giving some good behind-the-scenes insight.

Actors: Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles, Misha Collins, Mark A. Sheppard
Producers: Robert Singer, Jeremy Carver, Phil Sgriccia, McG, Adam Glass
Number of discs: 4
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 8, 2015

Season: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Supernatural” hit a huge milestone mark this year with its approach to its tenth season! A lot of very successful shows have never even hit this mark yet “Supernatural” seems to have an ever growing and very loyal fan base. Plus the show itself seems to be getting better with each season. WB has been fully behind this season from the start and has committed to this show. The shows leads Jared Padalecki (Friday the 13th, “Gilmore Girls”) and Jensen Ackles (“Smallville,” My Bloody Valentine), who play Sam and Dean Winchester, seem to really love playing these characters. The Complete Tenth Season contains all 23 episodes from Season Ten and is also packed with over four hours of bonus content. Plus this show shows no signs of slowing down with “Supernatural” returns for its eleventh season this fall on The CW.

Official Premise: What do you do when embracing your bad self is the only option? Dean Winchester lost his battle with power-mad angel scribe Metatron, only to be resurrected by the power of the First Blade and now transformed into a demon, cursed with the Mark of Cain. The road to recovering wayward Dean takes brother Sam down sinister paths himself, with consequences that will shake the boys to their core. The Winchesters’ angelic comrade-in-arms Castiel must pick up the pieces in the aftermath of Metatron’s campaign to overtake Heaven. With his grace failing and rogue angels still loose, Cass faces the ticking clock of his own mortality while all-new and ages-old threats again push our heroes to their human and otherworldly limits. The 6-Disc, 23-Episode Season 10 will hold you spellbound.

The Blu-ray comes with a combo pack including a digital HD copy of the season. The show packs some great visual effects and they looks fantastic with the show’s 1080p Full HD Video. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio for English 5.1 track which sounds amazing with each episodes. The special features are also impressive as well. There is fun features like “A Very Special Supernatural Special” and “Supernatural Theatre: Staging the 200th Episode”..that’s right 200 episodes!! “The Winchester Mythology: Battling the Mark and the Blade” is good extras as well looking into that exciting fan. There is some nods at the fans with “Supernatural Fans” and “Supernatural at Comic-Con 2014”. There are also three audio commentaries included as well as various deleted scenes and a fun gag reel included rounding out the special features.

Starring: Ben McKenzie, Jada Pinkett Smith, Sean Pertwee, Robin Lord Taylor, Zabryna Guevara, Erin Richards
Number of discs: 4
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 8, 2015

Season: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

“Gotham” honestly was not my favorite show starting off. The first season takes a REALLY long time to get started, I would say close to ten episodes. The only really why I stuck along with it was because I felt that Robin Lord Taylor was enthralling as Penguin. I just loved his portrayal of that character in fact he ends up stealing the entire show. In fact, “Gotham” ended up having me favoring the villains over the good guys. Everyone from The Riddler to The Joker are getting their origin story here by the end of the season and that is when I fell in love with this show. So thanks to the wonderful villains, I stuck with this series and enjoyed it overall. I did notice that the season season focuses A LOT more on the bad guys and I think I was not the only one who wanted that more! Season two starts September 21st. Can’t wait!

Official Premise: The good. The evil. The beginning. When rookie Gotham City detective James Gordon, dedicated to restoring his crime-ridden metropolis back to its decent and illustrious past, catches the case of a murdered socialite couple, he promises their shattered, surviving son Bruce Wayne he’ll find their killer. It is an obligation and an obsession that will cost him dearly – and set the stage for the gritty and exciting world of Gotham. Inspired by DC Comics characters beloved by generations, this gripping hit series from the talents behind The Mentalist, CSI, Nikita and Gossip Girl reaches deep into Batman lore to uncover the sinister layers of corruption that secretly rule Gotham City, spawning ground of the world’s most iconic villains. Delve into the circumstances created the bizarre personas who would become Catwoman, The Penguin, The Riddler, Two-Face and The Joker in an entirely new chapter that’s never been told.

The Blu-ray comes with a combo pack including a digital HD copy of the season. Honestly, I wasn’t really too impressed with the “Gotham” that was created for this show. It felt very small and when spanned out quite CGI but it still looks solid with the the show’s 1080p Full HD Video. The DTS-HD Master Audio for English 5.1 track also works well with the occasion action. The special features are decent but include no commentaries, which is a bit of a bummer. First off we have “Gotham Invented”, which is a three-part behind-the-scenes look into the series. “Designing the Fiction” looks more into the visuals and locations and more from the series. “The Game of Cobblepot” looks depper into Robin Lord Taylor role. “The Legend Reborn” focuses on the show’s pilot. “DC Comics Night: Comic-Con 2014” showcases shows like Gotham, Arrow and The Flash. Lastly there are Character Profiles, a few unaired scenes and a funny gag reel included.

Starring: Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, Ian Somerhalder
Number of discs: 3
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 1, 2015

Season: 3 out of 5 stars
Season: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extra: 3 out of 5 stars

I have been a long time fan of “The Vampire Diaries” since the first episode but since season five, I feel like it is losing me quickly with each new episode. I am tired of how they keep killing people off and then immediately bringing them back (*cough Bonnie cough*). This season is a big one for the show though since it is the final season with Nina Dobrev, the lead of the show, who is not returning for season seven. Honestly, this season was a bit shocking and definitely an improvement from the last. I am very curious now for season seven, and how they are going to continue this show without her.

Official Premise: The Vampire Diaries continues for a sixth season with delicious drama to sink your teeth into. Last season, after a passionate summer with Damon, Elena headed to Whitmore College with Caroline, not knowing Bonnie sacrificed her life for Jeremy’s. Meanwhile, Stefan and Caroline’s friendship deepened as they stood up to the Travelers, a nomadic witch tribe driven to strip Mystic Falls of magic and cast out its supernatural residents. In the shocking season finale, Damon, fearing he would lose his loved ones on the crumbling Other Side, made a huge sacrifice to bring them all back – with catastrophic and heartbreaking results. Season six follows the characters’ journey back to each other as they explore the duality of good versus evil inside themselves.

The Blu-ray comes with a Digital HD copy. The 1080p transfers are solid and the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks work well with the show. The special features are decent and worth checking out if you enjoy the show. “The Vampire Diaries: Good Bite and Good Luck” is final farewell to Nina Dobrev. “The Vampire Diaries: Best.Reaction.Ever.” include fan reactions from social media to seasons important moments. There is also the “The Vampire Diaries: 2014 Comic-Con Panel” included. As well as a PSA “Come Visit Georgia”, some deleted scenes and a gag reel included.

Starring: Joseph Morgan, Daniel Gillies, Phoebe Tonkin and Charles Michael Davis
Number of discs: 3
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 1, 2015

Season: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Season: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extra: 3 out of 5 stars

The first season of “The Vampire Diaries” spin off “The Originals” took some time to get started. The second season it starts to build up some steam but still doesn’t really stand alone for me. Maybe it is the supporting cast that I haven’t gotten on board with since I love the characters Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah (obviously this season is lacking Clarie Holt). Honestly, I am really losing interest in this whole “The Vampire Diaries” world lately. I really stopped watcing that show around season 5 and missed the sixth season all together. I am not sure if I plan to continue watching “The Originals” either, this season didn’t really win me over but it wasn’t terrible either. If you love these characters you will enjoy otherwise this is good for background noise.

Official Premise: As Original vampire-werewolf hybrid Klaus Mikaelson returned to the vibrant, supernaturally charged city of New Orleans, he was stunned to learn – along with siblings Elijah and Rebekah – that Hayley, a werewolf, was pregnant with his child, and his vampire protégé, Marcel, whom the Original siblings had thought long dead, was ruling the French Quarter. Soon a bloody war escalated between vampires and witches, the stakes raised by powerful teenage witch Davina, and by Klaus’s bond with Cami, a student with a painful past, and a ruthless pack of wolves seized the opportunity to stage a violent coup. Now, in season two, a new status quo must be adjusted to, as the newly empowered werewolves control the city. Plus, Klaus struggles with weaknesses and Elijah fights to save Hayley – now a hybrid – from a vicious spiral of self-destruction.

The Blu-ray comes with a Digital HD copy. The 1080p transfers are solid and the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks work well with the show. The special features are decent and worth checking out if you enjoy the show. “The Originals: Always and Forever” focuses on the cast and creators on season two. “The Awakening Web Series” takes a look into this companion series with Kol Mikaelson (Nathaniel Buzolic), also includes a behind the scenes look with the cast and creators of the digital series. there is also the “The Originals: 2014 Comic-Con Panel” included. As well as a PSA “Come Visit Georgia”, some deleted scenes and a gag reel included.

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Actors: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jennifer Morrison, Josh Dallas, Emile De Ravin, Colin O’Donoghue
Number of discs: 5
Studio: Walt Disney Studios
Release Date: August 18, 2015
Run Time: 966 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Once Upon a Time” is a show that has been better with each season. With the star of a new season, the series adds so many great characters into this fantasy world. ABC (aka Disney) has an endless number of characters to choose from to continue this series for quite some time. This season has been split into two halves, The Snow Queen, which mixes in the world of “Frozen” and introduces Queen Elsa, Princess Anna, Kristoff to the show. The second half is the Queens of Darkness, which features a trio of villains including the return of Maleficent, and newcomers Cruella de Vil and Ursula. Other new characters introduced are the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Little Bo Peep, and Poseidon rounded out a very impressive fourth season. I can’t wait to see what they have planned for season five.

Official Premise: Soon after Emma and Hook unwittingly bring Elsa of Arendelle to Storybrooke, they encounter the mysterious Snow Queen, whose relentless obsession with both Emma and Elsa has chilling consequences. Meanwhile, it appears Regina has at last found true love with Robin Hood, but how will she react when her happy ending is thwarted yet again by a maddening twist of fate? Then, a banished Rumplestiltskin enlists the Queens of Darkness (Maleficent, Ursula, Cruella De Vil) in an insidious scheme to rewrite their own stories and corrupt the Savior by turning her newly blissful heart pitch-black.

The Blu-ray presentation is very impressive. All 23 episodes from season 4 look amazing with their 1080p transfer. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround tracks also impressive as well. There are some decent never-before-seen bonus features included. “Defrosting Frozen” looks into the introduction from “Frozen” into the series. “Behind the Magic Tour” features Josh Dallas and Ginnifer Goodwin taking us backstage. “Three Who Stayed” focuses on the lasting three residents from Storybrooke. Lastly there are some bloopers, deleted scenes and some fun audio commentaries included rounding out this impressive release.

Studio: Cartoon Network
DVD Release Date: July 14, 2015
Run Time: 561 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

“Adventure Time” continues to be one of my favorite shows on Cartoon Network. The show is so inventive and plain out weird as hell. It has creativity slipping out from every scene. The colors are so rich and trippy. There is never an episode that doesn’t make me laugh out of loud yet at the same time a little freaked out. The fifth season is easily one of the best season’s to date as well. I love how the each episode of the show is able to be watched individually yet hardcore fans are able to appreciate the season’s continuity. I can’t get enough of this show…period!

Official Premise: Are you a Jake fan? Great! Because Season 5 has a ridiculous amount of momentous Jake moments!! Like when he became Jake the Dad. That time he tracked down Jake Jr.’s kidnapper (sort of). Who can forget the masterpiece that is his Most Delicious Sandwich?! And he shares these moments with his best bro Finn and friends in a total of 52 episodes, all for you!

Here is a full list of episodes: 1. Finn the Human, 2. Jake the Dog, 3. Five More Short Graybles, 4. Up a Tree, 5. All the Little People, 6. Jake the Dad, 7. Davey, 8. Mystery Dungeon, 9. All Your Fault, 10. Little Dude, 11. Bad Little Boy, 12. Vault of Bones 13. The Great Bird Man, 14. Simon and Marcy, 15. A Glitch Is a Glitch, 16. Puhoy, 17. BMO Lost, 18. Princess Potluck, 19. James Baxter the Horse, 20. Shh!, 21. The Suitor, 22. The Party’s Over, Isla de Señorita, 23. One Last Job, 24. Another Five More Short Graybles, 25. Candy Streets, 26. Wizards Only, Fools

Episodes Continued… 27. Jake Suit, 28. Be More, 29. Sky Witch, 30. Frost & Fire, 31. Too Old, 32. Earth & Water, 33. Time Sandwich, 34. The Vault, 35. Love Games, 36. Dungeon Train, 37. The Box Prince, 38. Red Starved, 39. We Fixed a Truck, 40. Play Date, 41. The Pit, 42. James, 43. Root Beer Guy, 44. Apple Wedding, 45. Blade of Grass, 46. Rattleballs, 47. The Red Throne, 48. Betty, 49. Bad Timing, 50. Lemonhope (1), 51. Lemonhope (2), 52. Billy’s Bucket List

If you are an “Adventure Time” fan then this a set is awesome because it features a whopping 52 episodes as listed above. That adds up to nearly 600 minutes of cartoon genius. The 1080p transfer looks awesome and really impresses on Blu-ray. There are two main downfalls to this Blu-ray though. The first is the audio track, which only boasts a poor Dolby Digital 2.0 track, which is barely DVD quality. The “Adventure Time” Blu-rays have all been the same with this feature and even though it sounds ok, we deserve better. The other is that that the only special feature included though is an exclusive Behind the Scenes featurette, which is cool but I would love some commentary for sure.

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Starring: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale, Reid Scott, Timothy Simons, Matt Walsh, Sufe Bradshaw, Kevin Dunn, Gary Cole
Rating: TV-MA
Studio: HBO
Release Date: July 20, 2015

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

Normally, I would never find myself watching a political satire like “Veep” but I am so glad that I have since it is easily one of the best shows on TV right now. It is not only smart but hysterical at the same time. This show has been developed so well over its run and in it’s fourth season it is the best that it has been to date. The characters are fleshed out so well and only getting better. Can’t wait for season five to start!

Official Premise: Having become president after her predecessor stepped down, it remains to be seen whether Selina Meyer’s team will outlast that of America’s shortest-serving president, William Henry Harrison. With the stakes for Selina and her team higher than ever before, she must still run for election, and in the weeks to come they will grapple with how to make her seem “presidential.”

So since we are reviewing this season for digital HD, which was available since July 20th, there are still a good amount of special features included. Like the also recently released season for Silicon Valley, only thing missing that I would like would be commentary tracks. Included are two featurettes, exclusive, never-before-seen deleted scenes and a trailer. “Great Debates” includes some very funny moments from the season. “Invitation to the Set” features Julia Louis-Dreyfus and the cast previewing the season.