Actors: Christopher R.Sabat, John Swasey, Elizabeth Maxwell
Directors: Zach Bolton
Number of discs: 4
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: October 28, 2014
Run Time: 114 minutes

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

“Ghost in the Shell: Arise” is a new four-part OVA series that serves as a re-imagining of Masamune Shirow’s “Ghost in the Shell”. The OVA series features new character designs and new music by Cornelius. The series of OVAs were split into separate episodes called “Borders”. This release includes the first two titled: “Ghost Pain” and “Ghost Whispers”. Being a fan of “Ghost in the Shell” for years, this is another great series in the franchise. I can’t wait to see the second half.

Official Premise: In this highly anticipated prequel set in the year after the fourth World War, cyborg and hacker Motoko Kusanagi finds herself wrapped up in the investigation of a devastating bombing. But she’s not the only one looking for answers—as she delves deeper into the mystery of who is behind the attack, a specialized team unlike any before begins to take shape.

“Ghost in the Shell: Arise” looks stunning on Blu-ray. The 1080p transfers presented in 1.78:1 is outstanding. The animation is breathtaking and even though the characters looks a little different the series still is so sharp. The colors are so sharp and there is a nice mix of CGI elements. Same goes for the language tracks. There are both Japanese and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1, it may upset some people that this does not include original cast but I see it as new character designs, new voices. A few new start.

I was really impressed that this release included some solid special features, which are are great like the series and spanned over two discs. “Ghost in the Shell: Arise at the Anime Expo 2013” features interviews with staff and attendees. There is a feature with the robotic quadrapeds in “Logicoma Beat”. There are also a bunch of promotional videos, New Flash(s) and trailers/teasers and textless openings included.

The second disc includes a U.S. Cast and Crew Audio Commentary. “Decode 501File” gives background on the mysterious group. “Border: 1 Ghost Pain Cyberbrain” includes two Q&A from 2013 with cast and I.G. There are also a bunch more of promotional videos, New Flash(s) and trailers/teasers.spots and textless openings/closings included. Overall a lot of promotional material but still great extras.

Actors: Gary Sandy, Gordon Jump, Howard Hesseman, Loni Anderson, Richard Sanders
Number of discs: 13
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: October 28, 2014
Run Time: 2250 minutes

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

Just in time for it’s 35th anniversary “WKRP In Cincinnati” finally is available on DVD as a complete series, thanks to Shout! Factory. This show was jam-packed with some amazing tunes. I just to love watching as a kid just to hear the music. This 13-disc set includes over 90% of the show’s original music, which is a great accomplishment for Shout! I recently just went through this with “The Wonder Years: The Complete Series”, it has over 400 music clearances in it. This series had a history of music rights restrictions. If you are a fan of this show, I think you will be happy with the results here. Shout! did their best to make sure that every scene uncut and with as much original music as possible. This is a vast improvement over the past Fox DVD release for sure.

Official Premise: Pairing an impeccable ensemble cast with sharp wit and great tunes, WKRP In Cincinnati celebrated four amazing seasons, making it the quintessential sitcom for music lovers. Join everyone’s favorite radio DJs—the rockin’ Dr. Johnny Fever (Howard Hesseman) and the soulful Venus Flytrap (Tim Reid)—as they weave through the inner-office antics of the crazy WKRP staff; including the station’s program director Andy (Gary Sandy), indecisive manager Arthur (Gordon Jump), advertising executive Herb (Frank Bonner), quirky news man Les Nessman (Richard Sanders), young ingénue Bailey (Jan Smithers) and, of course, the station’s lovely receptionist, Jennifer (Loni Anderson).

Just to name a few, here are some of the artists included on this DVD release: AC/DC, Pat Benatar, Blondie, Booker T And The MG’s, Boston, The Cars, Chicago, Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Crosby, Stills Nash & Young, The Doors, Bob Dylan, Earth, Wind & Fire, Foreigner, Marvin Gaye, Grateful Dead, Jefferson Starship, Elton John, Janis Joplin, B.B. King, Kool And the Gang, Huey Lewis & The News, Kenny Loggins, Chuck Mangione, Bob Marley, Paul McCartney and Wings, Van Morrison, Randy Newman, Olivia Newton-John, Ted Nugent, Tom Petty, The Polce, Elvis Presley, Queen, Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers, The Rolling Stones, Bob Seger, Bruce Springsteen, Styx, James Taylor, Luther Vandross, The Who and Neil Young.

“WKRP In Cincinnati: The Complete Series” includes some decent special features. There are two featurettes includes. The first is “Do My Eyes Say Yes?” features Frank Bonner, Tim Reid, Hugh Wilson, and Loni Anderson discuss the character Jennifer Marlowe. The second one is “A Fish Story” which discuss the behind the season battles over the season one episode. “WKRP In Cincinnati: A Paley Center Reunion” is panel discussion from 2014 featuring cast members Howard Hesseman, Loni Anderson, Tim Reid, Gary Sandy, and Jan Smithers, Executive Producer / Writer Hugh Wilson, Director Asaad Kelada, and the Director of the show’s pilot, Jay Sandrich, all moderated by rock radio legend Jim Ladd.

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Actors: Joan Crawford, Van Heflin, Raymond Massey, Geraldine Brooks, Stanley Ridges
Directors: Curtis Bernhardt
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Archive Collection
Release Date: October 21, 2014
Run Time: 108 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

If you are a Joan Crawford fan then “Possessed” is a must watched. Her tour-de-force performance earned here another Best Actress nomination. There is something about Crawford as an actress that has yet to be replaced in films. “Possessed” is a nice film noir title that keep your interest the entire film. It has murder, intrigue and plenty of passion. Warner Archive Collection was behind this release and produced a beautiful transfer for the black-and-white classic. The film has some outstanding shots courtsey of Joseph A. Valentine, who was responsible for “Shadow of a Doubt”, “Rope” and “Victor Fleming’s Joan of Arc”. If you are a fan of this film, I highly recommend this release.

Official Premise: Possessed (1947) opens with Crawford portraying a woman found wandering the streets of Los Angeles. Taken to a mental hospital, she weaves a harrowing tale of insanity, murder and the passion by which provides the basis for the film’s apt title. Louise Howell’s (Crawford) psychiatrist learns that she is a nurse hired to care for a dying woman and that she rekindled a former romance with her patient’s neighbor, David Sutton (Van Heflin). But the suicide of her charge and rejection by the man she loves drive Howell to madness–and murder. Or do they? Is Howell’s harrowing story true or the misperception of a deranged mind? Is Howell guilty of murder or an innocent victim of something far more sinister?

I have watched plenty of black and white films on Blu-ray and this film doesn’t look that it is 67 years old at all. I also loved the film’s original mono track, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, delivers the dialogue very clear and Oscar winner Franz Waxman (“Sunset Boulevard”) amazing score. The special features are taken from Warner’s 2005 DVD release. There is a commentary track with Film Historian Drew Casper. It is quite in-depth and tehcnical. There is a short featurette “Possessed: The Quintessential Film Noir” looking into the films genre elements. Lastly there is the original theatrical trailer included.

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Starring: Timothy Hutton, Amy Madigan, Michael Rooker, Julie Harris, Robert Joy
Director: George A. Romero
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Run Time: 122 minutes

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

The masters of horror behind “The Dark Half” are legends Stephen King and George A. Romero. This film is underrated and definitely creepy and a smart horror/thriller. The film stars Oscar winner Timothy Hutton (“Leverage”), Amy Madigan (“Fringe”), Julie Harris (“The Haunting”) and Michael Rooker (“The Walking Dead”). I haven’t seen this film since the days of Monsters HD. You horror fans know what I am talking about! It was cool seeing this film again and it looks quite awesome on Blu-ray.

Official Premise: Horror writer Thad Beaumont (Hutton) hopes to distance himself from his murder novels and from George Stark, the name he has used to anonymously author them. To achieve this, he cooks up a murder of his own: a publicity stunt that should lay Stark to rest forever. But when the people around him are found gruesomely slain – and his own fingerprints dot the crime scenes – Beaumont is dumbfounded until he learns that Stark has taken on life of his own…and begun a gruesome quest for vengeance!

The 1080p transfer works well with the creepy feel that the film gives off and same goes for DTS-HD Master Audio track works with the great scores. The special features are great including “The Sparrows Are Flying Again!: The Making of “The Dark Half” is a brand new retrospective with Writer/Director George A. Romero, Producer Declan Baldwin, Actors Michael Rooker, Robert Joy, Rutanya Alda and John Amplas, Composer Christopher Young, Special Make-Up Effects Creators John Vulich and Everett Burrell, Visual Effects Supervisor Kevin Kutchaver, Second Unit Director Tom Dubensky and Editor Pasquale Buba.

The film has a great new audio commentary track with Writer/Director George A. Romero.  It has some great insight here. I wish they could have gotten King to join in, that would have been epic! There are also some Behind-the-Scenes Footage with Special Effects and On the Set. There is a vintage “Making of The Dark Half” with additional interview clips. Lastly there is a Deleted Scenes, Animated Storyboards for the original ending, Theatrical Trailer /TV Spot and Still Gallery included here.

Actors: Ian Patrick Williams, Carolyn Purdy-Gordon, Carrie Lorraine
Directors: Stuart Gordon
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: November 11, 2014
Run Time: 77 minutes

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

Empire Pictures is responsible for the cult classic “Dolls”. The film is a bit aged and has looked better but it has a lot of positives going for it including Director Stuart Gordon, Actress Carolyn Purdy-Gordon (Re-Animator, From Beyond), music by Richard Band and Producer Brian Yuzna and Executive Producer Charles Band. It is not perfect but it is a decent film that holds up for the most part. I love the stop-motion and puppetry special effects in the film and that is what wins me over.

Official Premise: A precocious girl, her nasty parents, two punk-rock losers and a weak-kneed salesman inadvertently become the guests of two ghoulish senior citizens in their dark, haunted mansion. The old couple make and collect dolls that, when not sitting still like good little mannequins, creep around in the night, offing the guests one by one! You may laugh at first, but if they turn on you, you’ll regret it…for the rest of your short life!

The 1080p transfer is good but doesn’t really blow me away. It is definitely a nice improvement over the DVD that I own, so I am happy. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works great with Band’s score. There is also a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 included. In terms of special features, there is some decent content. “Toys of Terror: The Making of “Dolls” is a brand new retrospective featuring interviews with Director Stuart Gordon, Producer Brian Yuzna, Stars Carolyn Purdy-Gordon, Ian Patrick Williams, Executive Producer Charles Band, and Special Make-Up Effects Artists Gabe Bartalos, and John Vulich and more!

There are two audio commentary with director Stuart Gordon and writer Ed Naha and also with audio commentary with cast members Stephen Lee, Ian Patrick Williams, Carolyn Purdy Gordon and Carrie Lorraine. Both tracks are working checking out if you love the film and each one provides a different views, since obviously Gordon’s track is a bit more technical. There is a featurette on the “Storyboard-to-Film Comparison”, which is cool to see how it came to fruition. Lastly there is an Original Theatrical Trailer and Photo Gallery included.

Starring: Jason Beghe, John Pankow, Kate McNeil, Joyce Van Patten, Christine Forrest, Stephen Root
Director: George A. Romero
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Run Time: 113 minutes

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

It’s funny certain things can trigger different memories. I remember seeing the box to “Monkey Shines” in the horror isle of my local mom and pop video store. Who can say no to a toy monkey with a knife, right? The film is also directed by horror legend George A. Romero (Night Of The Living Dead). Real monkeys were used in film, which really adds to the suspense in the film. This even has a few well known faces including Stephen Root (Office Space) and Stanley Tucci (The Hunger Games) popping up in it. The film is still effective and even though it runs near two hours, it holds up today.

Official Premise: Allan Mann (Jason Beghe) is a bitter, angry and vengeful man ever since an accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. He’s fed up with himself and everyone around him. All that changes when he’s given Ella, a monkey trained to meet his every need. But when Ella begins anticipating Allan’s thoughts, strange and deadly things start happening. And as she stalks and wreaks havoc on Allan’s fair-weather girlfriend (Janine Turner), incompetent doctor and meddling mother, Allan realizes he must stop the cunning maniacal creature…before she fully takes over his mind!

Scream Factory definitely delivered a solid Blu-ray presentation. The 1080p transfer is definitely awesome. The film is quite dark but the transfer really works and looks great. The last time I believe I saw this was on VHS, so I guess anything is an improvement. The DTS-HD Master Audio Stereo also doesn’t disappoint. The score is fantastic and that monkey screeches are ear piercing.

The special features are equally as awesome. There is a brand new audio commentary with Writer/Director George A. Romero. “An Experiment In Fear – The Making of “Monkey Shines” is a brand new retrospective that runs over 45 minutes and features interviews with George A. Romero, actors Jason Beghe, John Pankow and Kate McNeil, Executive Producer Peter Grunwald, Special Make-Up Effects Creator Tom Savini, Special Make-Up Effects Assistants Greg Nicotero and Everett Burrell and Editor Pasquale Buba. There are some vintage extras including Behind-the-Scenes Footage and “Making of Monkey Shines” with additional interview clips. Lastly there is an Alternate Ending, Deleted Scenes, Trailers & TV Spot and Still Gallery included.

Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Dan Aykroyd, Susan Sarandon, Mark Duplass, Toni Collette, Sandra Oh
Director: Ben Falcone
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: November 11, 2014
Running Time: 97 / 101 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

After “Bridesmaids”, Melissa McCarthy became a star. “Identity Thief” was lacking quite a bit. “Tammy” is even further down the line. When someone plays the same character time after time it gets quite old and that is the case here. Even though, I was not a fan of the film. You gotta give it to them for having a helluva cast besides Melissa McCarthy, the film co-stars Susan Sarandon, Allison Janney, Gary Cole, Toni Collette, Kathy Bates, Sandra Oh, Mark Duplass and Dan Aykroyd. I have to give it to the film since it kept the comedy in around 90 or so minutes, which I enjoy but the film still felt like it dragged for me.

Synopsis: Tammy (McCarthy) is having a bad day. She’s totaled her clunker car, gotten fired from her thankless job at a greasy burger joint, and instead of finding comfort at home, finds her husband getting comfortable with the neighbor in her own house. It’s time to take her boom box and book it. The bad news is she’s broke and without wheels. The worse news is her grandma, Pearl (Sarandon), is her only option—with a car, cash, and an itch to see Niagara Falls. Not exactly the escape Tammy had in mind. But on the road, with Pearl riding shotgun, it may be just what Tammy needs.

Warner Bros is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + UltraViolet Digital HD copy. The Blu-ray edition features the film’s theatrical and extended cuts, which runs about 14 minutes longer. The 1080p transfer and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track are good but nothing to brag about, especially since it is a comedy. The special features are weak like the film including “Tammy’s Road Trip Checklist”, which is a travelogue with McCarthy and the director on the making of the film. “Fun Extras” is a collection of three mash-ups including “P@#$-O-Rama”, “Wave-O-Rama” and “Mindless Chat-O-Rama”. The rest is a bunch of gags and deleted scenes.

Own “Tammy” on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, and Digital HD on November 11^th

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Ian McShane, John Hurt, Rufus Sewell, Aksel Hennie, Ingrid Bolsø Berdal
Director: Brett Ratner
Number of discs: 3
Rated: PG-13 / Unrated
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: November 4, 2014
Running Time: 98 / 101 minutes

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

Even the great get a pass every now and then right? Dwayne Johnson is definitely the kind of Hollywood action films right now but this one is not one of the best. It does get some props for having some pretty epic battles and impressive visuals but it is not a film to me that really screams repeat viewing. When I think of “Hercules”, I think about epic world of gods and monsters but here we get more human war battles. It is not necessarily bad since like I said the action is solid but it is not very memorable either.

Official Premise: Both man and myth, Hercules (Johnson) leads a band of mercenaries to help end a bloody civil war in the land of Thrace and return the rightful king to his throne. A tormented soul from birth, Hercules has the strength of a God but feels the suffering of a human. Unimaginable villains will test the mythical power of Hercules in Director Brett Ratner’s gritty take on one of the most epic action heroes of the ages.

Paramount is releasing “Hercules” in a combo pack with a 3D Blu-ray, standard Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD copy. This release includes bot the theatrical version of the film in both 3D and 2D, as well as an extended cut (but only in 2D) with exciting new action not seen in theaters. I am torn because I liked the film in 3D but the extended cut plays better as a film. The 3D transfer is solid and works great with the visual effects. The film also works in 2D but any epic battle scenes or creature scenes are lacking that extra punch. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is a huge success and delivers the epic feel of this film very well.

The special features are solid and start with “Brett Ratner and Dwayne Johnson: An Introduction”. There is an audio commentary by director Brett Ratner and producer Beau Flynn on the theatrical version. “Hercules and his Mercenaries” looks into the team assembled for the film. “Weapons!” is a self explanatory extra, which focuses on action scenes and training. “The Bessi Battle” looks at the film’s major action sequence. “The Effects of Hercules” is a look at the film’s visual effects. Lastly there are 15 deleted/extended scenes.

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Starring: Andrew Robinson, Ami Dolenz, Soleil Moon Frye, J. Trevor Edmond, Hill Harper, Alexander Polinsky
Director: Jeff Burr
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Run Time: 86 minutes

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

With what the legendary Stan Winston created with “Pumpkinhead”, that gold is continued with “Pumpkinhead II: Blood Wings”. This film is a great follow up to the original. It also has a great cast including Amy Dolenz (“Witchboard 2”, “Ticks”), Andrew Robinson (“Hellraiser”), Soleil Moon Frye (‘Punky Brewster”), Hill Harper (“CSI: NY”), J. Trevor Edmond (“Lord of Illusions”), Linnea Quigley (“Return of the Living Dead”) and Kane Hodder (“Hatchet”). Scream Factory also released the first “Pumpkinhead” on Blu-ray a few months ago. Let’s hope they stop at this sequel and leave the next two sequels in obvilion where they belong. This film has non-stop gore and great practical effects. A most for any horror fan.

Official Premise: When five teenagers unwittingly resurrect a demon, nobody is safe from the hideous creature’s gruesome rampage. But this monster is different – inside it dwells the soul of a boy murdered years ago. Can the evil beast be destroyed…without killing the innocent boy trapped within?

Scream Factory delivered “Pumpkinhead II: Blood Wings” with a solid 1080p transfer. The film looks great and shines with the films creature effects. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 also delivers with the action and epic score. The special features are good but nothing amazing. There is featurette called “Re-Creating The Beast”, which features new interviews with special effects artists Greg Nicotero, Gino Crognale and actor Mark McCraken (Pumpkinhead). There is also “Making Movies”, which is an interview with director Jeff Burr. The special features were all suppose to include a new audio Commentary with director Jeff Burr and some Behind-the-scenes footage but that is nowhere to be found.

Starring: Zoë Bell, Vivica A. Fox, Kristanna Loken, Brigitte Nielsen, Cynthia Rothrock, Nicole Bilderback, Tim Abell
Director: Christopher Ray
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Asylum
Release Date: October 14, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

Just from a look at the box, you can safely assume that “Mercenaries” is a low-budget (very low) female -lead rip-off of the testosterone filed “The Expendables” series. Well you are definitely right…but here is the thing, I really don’t care. Even though it has a terrible script and D-list cast…this is a fun flick. It knows it shouldn’t be taken seriously and you shouldn’t either. Good for a few laughs.

The cast includes Zoë Bell, Vivica A. Fox, Brigitte Nielsen and Kristanna Loken and I have to admit, they are quite bad-ass together. Like I said the acting is ahhhh, so-so and I am not 100% convinced that Brigitte Nielsen belong with this cast of all women but good for that I expected. I heard rumors of Zoë Bell getting involved with “The Expendabellas” but after this I am sure that is out of the question.

Not that the plot matters at all for a film like this but in case you are curious…here it is the official premise: “When a visiting dignitary is captured and imprisoned while touring a war zone, a team of elite female commandos is assembled to infiltrate the women’s prison and rescue her.” Sounds epic right? Well, don’t forget this is low budget, so it’s not as cool as it sounds but still fun.

The 1080p transfer looks decent expect for the cheesy visual effects that don’t do it justice. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 delivers with the action though and the fun score. The special features are typical for an Asylum release. There is a short behind the scenes, making of and a gag reel included.

Actors: Peter Cushing, Brooke Adams, John Carradine
Directors: Ken Wiederhorn
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Blue Underground
Release Date: November 25, 2014
Run Time: 85 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I remember the first time that I saw the VHS box to “Shock Waves” at the loyal mom and pop video store. I mean what young boy can put down a box with the words Nazi zombies?! This cult classic is is making’s its Blu-ray debut thanks to Blue Underground. This film still holds up and is quite fun. The film stars Peter Cushing (The Curse of Frankenstein), Brooke Adams (The Dead Zone) and John Carradine (The Howling). The zombies aren’t very zombified according to today’s standards. I loved the idea of people randomly just jumping out of the water, still effective. Worth checking out, but be wary of the lacking audio/video presentation.

Official Premise: In the dark days of World War II, the Nazi High Command ordered its scientists to create a top secret race of indestructible zombie storm troopers – un-living, unfeeling, unstoppable monstrosities that killed with their bare hands. They were known as The Death Corps. No member of this horrific SS unit was ever captured by Allied Forces – and, somewhere off the coast of Florida they have survived…

Blue Underground claims that this is fulled remastered and restored from original elements but this film looks pretty sad with its 1080p transfer. There is a whole lot of consistent noise in the background throughout. The DTS-HD Master Audio Mono is pretty harsh as well. The dialogue seems a muted but the score is still great and sounds decent, courtesy of composer Richard Einhorn

The special features are a nice bonus though. There is an audio commentary with Co-Writer/Director Ken Wiederhorn, Make-Up Designer Alan Ormsby and Filmmaker Fred Olen Ray. There is a new interview with Producer/Cinematographer Reuben Trane called “Nazi Zombies On A Budget”. “Notes For The Undead” is an interview with Composer Richard Einhorn. “Sole Survivor” is an interview with Star Brooke Adams. “From Flipper to Shock Waves” is an interview with Star Luke Halpin. Lastly there is an trailer, TV/radio spots and a poster/stills gallery included, closing out the extras.

Starring: Paul Reubens, Lynne Marie Stewart, William Marshall, S. Epatha Merkerson, Laurence Fishburne, Phil Hartman
Number of discs: 8
Studio: Shout! Factory
Rated TV-PG
Running Time: 1103 minutes

Series: 5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

If you grew up in the 80’s then you properly watched “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” as a kid. This show is the simple definition of ADD. Watching this show today literally gives me a headache but this show has never lost it’s charm. This Complete Series Blu-ray release includes all 45 wacky episodes, plus Pee-wee’s Playhouse Christmas Special, that have been completely remastered the original film elements. This is the first time that this series has even been released in high definition and it is one hell of a release, thanks to Shout! Factory.

If you are looking to meet back up with Pee-wee Herman and his pals: Jambi the Genie, Miss Yvonne, Cowboy Curtis, Reba the Mail Lady, Captain Carl, Magic Screen, Conky, Globey, Chairry, Pterri, Randy and many more, I would highly recommend picking up this amazing series. This show isn’t just a cult classic though, it was the winner of an amazing 22 Emmy® Awards during it’s run. I am excited to be able to share this show with my two year old daughter, who has really been enjoying it so far. She calls it the “weird man show”, which she is totally correct in saying. We also already have her yelling “Mecka-lecka hi… Mecka-hiney ho!”

Shout! Factory delivered an amazing release here. Even the case is hard stock and had some amazing new cover art. The reverse side of the art also includes a complete episode list including each episodes “Word of the Day”. The  high definition transfers are presented in 1.35:1 and looks amazing. Shout! has said that it was taken from original film elements and that the restoration process was supervised by Paul Reubens himself. The colors are amazing and look extremely vibrant. Same goes for the series’ uncompressed LPCM 2.0 audio track, which works well with the zany madness and Mark Mothersbaugh.

In terms of special features, this release still impresses. There are over four hours of brand-new interviews with the cast and crew, plus never-seen, behind-the-scenes footage with ten featurettes, including: “Building the Playhouse”, which goes into the show production design. “Opening the Playhouse” looks into the title sequence. “Writing for the Playhouse” looks into the scripts and also the music with composer Mark Mothersbaugh. “The Look of the Playhouse” shows the construction of the Playhouse.

“Music of the Playhouse” is a full focus on Mothersbaugh’s tunes. “The Cast of the Playhouse” is a near 50 minutes feature jam-packed with great interviews. “The Puppets of the Playhouse” is a 30 minute look into the shows puppet work. “Animating the Playhouse” looks into the various aspect of animation. “Fans and Memorabilia of the Playhouse” shows the fans obsession with the show of the year. Lastly there is a behind-the-scenes look at the “A Very Merry Christmas Special”. I would have also loved some commentary tracks but there are so many interviews thrown in here, it makes up for the loss. A must own for any Pee-wee fan!

Actors: Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Benedict Cumberbatch, Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Luke Evans
Director: Peter Jackson
Number of discs: 5
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: NEW LINE HOME VIDEO
Release Date: November 4, 2014
Run Time: 186 minutes

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

If you are a fan of Peter Jackson, then it is no surprise that he is a big fan of releasing extended cuts of his films. “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”. The new Extended Cut includes 25 minutes of additional content that extends individual scenes making this a must see for fans of the film. Sone extras scenes include much more of Mirkwood, as well as more of Dol Guldur and Thranduil and of course, more Stephen Fry, who is just simply awesome…amongst much more. This film is no question of my favorite films of last year and only gets better with each viewing. This 5-disc 3D Extended Edition also includes more than nine hours of new bonus features. This should at least hold you off until “The Battle of Five Armies” hits theaters this December!

Official Premise: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug continues the adventure of the title character Bilbo Baggins as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf and thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield, on an epic quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor. Having survived the beginning of their unexpected journey, the Company travels East, encountering along the way skin-changer Beorn and a swarm of giant Spiders in the treacherous forest of Mirkwood. After escaping capture by the dangerous Wood-elves, the Dwarves journey to Lake-town, and finally to the Lonely Mountain itself, where they must face the greatest danger of all–a creature more terrifying than any other; one which will test not only the depth of their courage but the limits of their friendship and the wisdom of the journey itself–The Dragon Smaug.

Warner Bros is bringing this film home with a combo pack including a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + UltraViolet Digital HD copy. Like the previous Blu-ray release for “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”, the Extended Edition is no different. I enoyed the 3D in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” but this film really shines with the added effect. The scale of the film is so large and Smaug is just a cinematic marvel. If you watch this film, especially the Extended Edition, I would absolutely recommend doing it in 3D. The 1080p transfer is simply outstanding, as is the DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track. Easily, this is one of the best Blu-ray presentations that I have seen all year.

The Extended Edition extras include a new audio commentary track with Director/writer/producer Peter Jackson and writer/co-producer Philippa Boyens discussing the new cut etc. “New Zealand: Home of Middle-Earth, Part 2” features Jackson and his team traveling through the film’s locations. “The Appendices Part 9 & 10” is the next two installments in Jackson’s sprawling “Appendices” documentary showcase this massive production. Combine these extras with the special features that were included in the first release of “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” on Blu-ray and we finally got a winning package here.

The other extras include: “Peter Jackson Invites You to the Set” is a two part look into the behind-the-scenes on this production. There are four Production Videos featurettes including “Introduction to Pick-Ups Shooting,” “Recap of Pick-Ups, Part 1,” “Recap of Pick-Ups, Part 2″ and “Music Scoring.” “Live Event: In the Cutting Room” is a recording of the March 2013 worldwide live event where Jackson answered fans questions and gave a tour of his production facilities. “New Zealand: Home of Middle-earth, Part 2″ gives a follow up look into the locations. Lastly there are Trailers & Previews and Music Video for “I See Fire” by Ed Sheeran.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition, a production of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, the newest epic in The Hobbit trilogy arrives on Blu-ray 3D™ and Blu-ray™ November 4th from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. The Extended Edition features a 25-minute longer cut and more than nine hours of new special features.

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• 3D Blu-ray Review “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”
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• Blu-ray Review “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (Extended Edition)”
• "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" Gets Officially Dated for Blu-ray
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Starring: Dane Cook, Julie Bowen, Ed Harris, Curtis Armstrong, John Michael Higgins, Hal Holbrook
Director: Roberts Gannaway
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 4, 2014
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

When I saw “Disney’s Planes”, I enjoyed the film but it was hardy very memorable and not a favorite for sure. I really wasn’t running into the very quickly released sequel with any high expectations at all. I was surprised though that the sequel is quite better than the first film. It is action packed and very funny. If you enjoy the world of “Cars”, I mean what little boy doesn’t this should certainly keep them entertained and glued to the screen and parents can get a few laughs and enjoy as well. This film is another one that Disney has neglected to release on 3D Blu-ray after it’s 3D successful theatrical release. This would really look much cooler at home with that added dimension.

Official Premise: Bring home the thrill of a lifetime with Disney’s “Planes: Fire & Rescue”. This heart-pumping comedy-adventure features a dynamic crew of elite aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfires. When world-famous air racer Dusty learns that he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. Dusty joins forces with a team of veteran firefighters; together, they battle a massive fire, and Dusty learns what it takes to be a true hero.

This sequel includes a solid voice cast including Dane Cook (“Planes”) as Dusty, Julie Bowen (“Modern Family”) as Dipper, Ed Harris (“Gravity”) as Blade Ranger, Captain Dale Dye (“Saving Private Ryan”) as Cabbie, Cedric the Entertainer (“Ice Age”) as Leadbottom, Erik Estrada (“CHiPs”) as Nick “Loopin” Lopez, Brad Garrett (“Everybody Loves Raymond”) as Chug, Teri Hatcher (“Desperate Housewives”) as Dottie, John Michael Higgins (“Pitch Perfect”) as Cad, Hal Holbrook (“Into the Wild”) as Mayday, Stacy Keach (“Planes”) as Skipper, Regina King (“Ray”) as Dynamite, Anne Meara (“Night at the Museum) as Winnie, Jerry Stiller (“The King of Queens”) as Harvey and Wes Studi (“Avatar”) as Windlifter…whew…deep breath!

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD including Disney Movies Anywhere. I have been enjoying the Disney Movies Anywhere site but they need to get their asses in gear and get on board with Android systems. The 1080p transfer is very impressive. The colors are amazing and the animation is very crisp and sharp. Like I said, this would have been a lot better in 3D but we got to work with what we got. The The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 also sores high and really works great with the film and the films solid animated action throughout.

The special features are also a score for this release. There is a new exclusive animated short “Vitaminamulch: Air Spectacular”. as well as other shorts “Dipper” and “Smokejumpers”. There is a fun mockumentary called “Welcome to Piston Peak!” looking at the Piston Peak National Park and its aerial firefighting team. There is a funny “CHoPs” TV Promo. “Air Attack: Firefighters From The Sky” is a fun and entertaining behind-the-scene look at the real life inspiration for the film with Director Roberts Gannaway and Producer Ferrell Barron talking about the making of. There is a music video for Spencer Lee’s “Still I Fly”. Lastly, there are two deleted scenes included with filmmaker introductions.

Starring: Angelina Jolie, Juno Temple, Elle Fanning, Miranda Richardson, Sam Riley, Sharlto Copley
Director: Robert Stromberg
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 4, 2014
Run Time: 96 minutes

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

I went into “Maleficent” prepared to be wowed by the visual appearance and I got much more than I expect. The film plays out what a live-action fairy tale is really like. I loved this film. This was a role that was meant for Angelina Jolie. She nails it so well, even from the most subtle lip moments, she is outstanding. The story is also not what you would expect from the tale of “Sleeping Beauty”, this is not just a retelling of the classic story. I love the path that they decided to take with this and it is just a ton of fun to watch! I want sequel Disney!! Bring it on! I am just very disappointed in Disney though that they are skipping the 3D Blu-ray for this film. I loved the 3D in this film it added so much to the film. The film made over $750 million worldwide Disney, why you being cheap on us U.S. fans!?

Official Premise: Maleficent tells the untold story of one of Disney’s most iconic villains. A beautiful, pure-hearted young woman, Maleficent (Jolie) has an idyllic life growing up in a peaceable forest kingdom, until an invading army threatens the harmony of the land. Maleficent rises to be the land’s fiercest protector, but she ultimately suffers a ruthless betrayal; an act that begins to turn her pure heart to stone. Bent on revenge, Maleficent faces an epic battle with the invading king’s successor and, as a result, places a curse upon his newborn infant Aurora. As the child grows, Maleficent realizes that Aurora holds the key to peace in the kingdom, and perhaps to Maleficent’s true happiness as well.

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD including Disney Movies Anywhere. I have been enjoying the Disney Movies Anywhere site but they need to get their asses in gear and get on board with Android systems. The 1080p transfer is still outstanding even though I would have preferred this film in 3D. The colors are vibrant and the design of the feel just looks so freaking slick and sharp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 is a thing of beauty as well. The score for this film was unbelievable and really acted like a character in the film. It has that fairy tale feel that really adds a lot to the film.

The special features are another score for this release. There are five featurettes taking us behind the scenes on this beautiful film. “From Fairy Tale to Feature Film” takes us through how they re-imagined “Maleficent” for a new generation. “Building An Epic Battle” focuses on the fight between Maleficent and King Henry’s Forces, which was quite epic. “Classic Couture” looks into the wonderful head piece and other accessories in the film. “Maleficent Revealed” dives into the special effects. “Aurora: Becoming A Beauty” features Elle Fanning talking about the role. There are also a bunch of deleted scenes included.