Starring: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Rinko Kikuchi, Ko Shibasaki, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Tadanobu Asano
Director: Carl Rinsch
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 119 minutes

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

I have been following “47 Ronin” and really looking forward to “47 Ronin”. I am a big fan of Keanu Reeves and I thought that him in a $170 million martial arts film would be epic. After watching it finally though, I was left a little disappointing and kind of bored like most people that saw it.  I personally have no idea how they spent that much money because I have seen films like “Young Detective Dee: Rise of the Sea Dragon”, which looks much better and was make for $25 million. I know the film has production problems and reshoot after reshoot but it didn’t really help make the film more interesting. I would recommend watching this once if you are a fan of the genre and its stars.

Official Premise: After a treacherous warlord (Asano) kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and reclaim their honor. Battling across a savage world of mythical beasts, shape-shifting witches and wondrous terrors, the ronin must seek help from Kai (Reeves), an enslaved half-breed they once rejected, in their ultimate fight for redemption.

Keanu Reeves is front and center among an otherwise all international cast that includes Hiroyuki Sanada (TV’s “Revenge”, “The Last Samurai”). Tadanobu Asano (“The Wolverine”, “Thor: The Dark World”) as Lord Kira. Rinko Kikuchi (“Pacific Rim”) is amazing as the Witch, Ko Shibasaki (“One Missed Call”). The acting is great but the roles are rather one dimensional. Despite the film itself, I thought that Reeves was able to hold his own amongst the rest of the cast and give a good performance as well.

Universal Studios delivered this film as a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital UltraViolet copy.  The film was post converted into 3D (which I haven’t heard great things about anyway) but we had a chance to review this in standard Blu-ray. The 1080p was impressive. The visual effects played out very nicely and very detailed, especially the creatures. The costumes, the locations, the sets are all very colorful and vibrant. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 was pretty powerful and packed a nice punch. Ilan Eshkeri’s score was also a highlight for me.

In terms of special features, they are not too shabby either. “Keanu & Kai” features the star talksing about his roe. “Steel Fury: The Fights of 47 Ronin” looks into the choreography and action sequences. “Myths, Magic & Monsters: The FX of 47 Ronin” dives deep into the creatures of ancient Japanese folklore used in the film. Those extras above are just available exclusively on Blu-ray for a limited time only. The rest of the extras are available on both the Blu-ray and DVD discs. “Re-Forging the Legend” tells the actual story of 47 Ronin and the road of how the filmmakers brought this film to the big screen. Lastly, there a a few deleted scenes included wrapping up the extras.

Starring: Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd and David Koechner
Director: Adam McKay
Rated: PG-13/Unrated/R
Studio: Paramount
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 118/122/143 minutes

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

NEWS TEAM ASSEMBLE!! Ron Burgundy and his team is back. Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd and David Koechner reprise their already iconic roles. “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues” is a very ambitious sequel to the 2004 cult classic. I would say that it succeeds about 75% of the time with its jokes but does rely a lot on the shoulders of the film before it. I have a feeling that, like the first film, this is going to be one of those that gets better with age…like a good scotch as I am sure Ron Burgundy himself would enjoy.

Official Premise: After losing his job to his wife and co-anchor (Christina Applegate), Ron Burgundy (Will Ferrell) reassembles the news team (Steve Carell, Paul Rudd and David Koechner ) and squares off against a new rival (James Madsen). Will the world’s greatest anchorman be crushed beneath the weight of his own ego (and his salon-quality hair)? Anything goes in the outrageous comedy.

The three-disc Blu-ray Combo Pack includes not one…not two but three versions of the film including-in a Home Entertainment First, the Super-Sized R-Rated Version with 763 New Jokes. I think whether you loved or absolutely hated the film, this is such a crazy feat that everyone needs to check this out. Never before in the history of home entertainment has anyone replaced 763 jokes. It is like a new movie told within the shell of the first. Paramount also squeezed in a DVD copy of the film along with an HD Digital Ultraviolet copy.

Paramount not only delivered an astounding three version of the film, they also included over four hours of special features. The first disc including a perfect and highly recommend commentary track from the whole gang including Adam McKay, Judd Apatow, Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd & David Koechner. Honestly, it is like you are watching a fourth version of the film with even more new jokes. If you are looking for replay value on this film if you get bored with the other three, this is a great way to re-enjoy the film.

There is a Behind-the-Scenes look with “Newsroom”, which takes us inside the making of the film. There is a two part Gag Reel including, because one is just not enough. “Line-O-Rama, Parts 1 & 2” is another collection of non-stop alternate lines from the film. “Welcome to the Dolphin Show” has Ron Burgundy taking on the crowd at SeaWorld. “Catfight” features more ad-lib between Christina Applegate and Meagan Good going head-to-head. “News-O-Rama” features Ron and the News Team bringing you the headlines. “Kench-O-Rama” is a mashup of Kench Allenby’s most Australian moments…Brilliant! Lastly there is a Cast Table Read, which is also a riot.

The second Blu-ray disc includes the Super-Sized R-Rated Version along with more special features. There is an Behind-the-Scenes featurette. “Anchorman 2: The Musical” is a look into how this film almost was a musical sequel. “RV” dives into the work behind the RV tumble. “Baxter & Doby” focuses on the animals of Anchorman 2. “News Fight” was one of the best parts of the film and this dives into the biggest, baddest all-star celebrity brawl ever! There are an additional 90 minutes of Deleted, Extended & Alternate Scenes. At this point I said out loud, “SERIOUSLY?” How did they have this much footage.

“Previsualizations” looks into the various FX filled scenes including the RV, Shark Attack and the News Fight sequences. “Auditions” includes pre-film scenes featuring Meagan Good, Dylan Baker and Amy Poehler. “Benefit for 826LA” is a special tribute to Anchorman 2. Lastly there are trailers. The last disc, which is the DVD, only includes the theatrical version of the film. Also be sure to check out the pamphlet inside the case which comes with a digital code to unlock all levels for “Scotchy Scotch Toss” video game.

Voices: Frank Welker, Matthew Lillard, Mindy Cohn, Grey DeLisle, John Cena, Triple H, Sin Cara, Brodus Clay, AJ Lee, The Miz, Santino, Kane
Directed by: Brandon Vietti
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Turner Home Ent
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014

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

What happens when Warner Bros. Animation teams up with WWE Films? We get one of the best new Scooby Doo! feature length films to date with “Scooby-Doo! WrestleMania Mystery”. If you are a wrestling fan, I cannot recommend this anymore and if you are also a “Scooby Doo!” fan, this is a perfect match. This not only stars the Mystery Inc. gang but also is backed with some of the biggest WWE Superstars including John Cena, Triple H, Sin Cara, Brodus Clay, AJ Lee, The Miz, Santino, Kane and also WWE Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon. They not only are in the film in animated form but also lend their voices as well. WB has been behind continuously pushing “Scooby Doo!” and this just shows how much crossover this series has and how strong the brand is still.

Official Premise: When Shaggy and Scooby win tickets to WrestleMania, they convince the entire Mystery Inc. gang to travel to WWE City in the Mystery Machine to enjoy the show. But the trip quickly turns into another mystery as WWE City is full of secrets! A mysterious ghostly bear appears and threatens to ruin the show and steal the championship title belt. With the help of WWE Superstars John Cena, Triple H, Sin Cara, Brodus Clay, AJ Lee, The Miz, Santino Marella and Kane, Scooby-Doo and The Mystery Inc. gang team up to solve the case before it is too late!

Warner Bros is delivering “Scooby-Doo! WrestleMania Mystery” as a Blu-ray/DVD combo with a HD Digital Ultraviolet copy included. The 1080p transfer is very impressive. The animation style is vibrant and looks great. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks works perfectly with the mystery/action aspect of the film. In the special features department there is some decent extras. There is a brand new featurette “Behind-The-Scenes with Scooby-Doo and the WWE Gang”, which goes into the voice recording sessions with the cast of WWE. There is also a bonus episode of “A Pup Named Scooby Doo”, “Wrestle Maniacs”.

This is the first and definitely not the last collaboration between Warner Bros. Animation teams up with WWE Films. They are planning to mash-up another classic series “The Flintstones” in early 2015 bringing Fred, Barney and the whole Bedrock gang with stone age versions of WWE Superstars and Divas. So I am sure this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship I am sure. WWE Films has been getting some major steam behind them in the last few years and I can’t wait to see what they have planned next!

Actors: Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn, Peter Lorre, Ingrid Bergman, Mary Astor
Directors: John Huston, Michael Curtiz
Number of discs: 4
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 433 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Back in my days in colleges (years ago!), I took a film class and I learned all about the amazing work of the legendary actor Humphrey Bogart. This opened up a new world to me and I was exposed to films like “The Maltese Falcon” and “Casablanca”. We looked deep into this films and I grew a great appreciation for them and other films as well. “The Best of Bogart Collection” is a great collection of his films including “The African Queen”, “Casablanca”, “The Maltese Falcon” and “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre”. This films have been released previously on Blu-ray but this is the first time that they are all packaged together. Also as an added bonus we get reproduction art cards from each film, which is a real great collectible. A must have for any Bogart fan!

“The African Queen” is such a great film. Charlie Allnut is such a great character for him. This is one of those films that I can never turn off once I see it on. “Casablanca” is in a world of its own. It is over 70 years old and still so amazing and relevant. Such a classic and will continue to stand the test of time. “The Maltese Falcon” is a film that I studied quite a bit and really was one of the first films that I was introduced to Bogart and his career. It will always hold a special place for me. Last but not least is “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre”, which in fact is a film that I have never seen (*gasp*). But thanks to this new collection, I was able to find out what I have been missing wit this AFI Top 100 classic.

“The African Queen” Offical Premise: Stars Humphrey Bogart in his Oscar-winning portrayal of Charlie Allnut, the slovenly, gin-swilling captain of a tramp steamer called the African Queen, which ships supplies to small East African villages during World War I. Katharine Hepburn plays Rose Sayer, the maiden-lady sister of a prim British missionary, Rev. Samuel Sayer (Robert Morley). When Germans invade and Samuel dies, Allnut offers to take Rose back to civilization. She can’t tolerate his drinking or bad manners; he isn’t crazy about her imperious, judgmental attitude. However it does not take long before their passionate dislike turns to love. Together the disparate duo work to ensure their survival on the treacherous waters and devise an ingenious way to destroy a German gunboat.

“Casablanca” Offical Premise: easy to enter, but much harder to leave, especially if you’re wanted by the Nazis. Such a man is Resistance leader Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid), whose only hope is Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), a cynical American who sticks his neck out for no one – especially Victor’s wife Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman), the ex-lover who broke his heart. Ilsa offers herself in exchange for Laszlo’s transport out of the country and bitter Rick must decide what counts more – personal happiness or countless lives hanging in the balance.

“The Maltese Falcon” Official Premise: A gallery of high-living lowlifes will stop at nothing to get their sweaty hands on a jewel-encrusted falcon. Detective Sam Spade (Humphrey Bogart) wants to find out why–and who’ll take the fall for his partner’s murder. An all-star cast (including Sydney Greenstreet, Mary Astor, Peter Lorre and Elisha Cook Jr.) joins Bogart in this crackling mystery masterwork written for the screen (from Dashiell Hammett’s novel) and directed by John Huston.

“The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” Official Premise: Gold in the hills, avarice in the hearts of men. Two hard-luck drifters (Humphrey Bogart and Tim Holt) and a grizzled prospector (Walter Huston) discover gold. Then greed and paranoia set in. John Huston won Academy Awards for his direction and screenplay. And his dad took the Best Supporting Actor Oscar. Without awards, but with enduring acclaim, is Bogart’s performance, transforming from a likable hobo to a heartless thug simmering in greed.

If these four films are not enough, these films also come jam-packed with special features. First, we have “The African Queen”, which also has the least extras. There is “Embracing Chaos: Making The African Queen”, which goes behind-the-scenes into the film.
“The Maltese Falcon” delivers impressive extras as well with a commentary track by Bogart Biographer Eric Lax. There is a featurette “The Maltese Falcon: One Magnificent Bird”. “Breakdowns of 1941” is a Studio Blooper Reel. There are Makeup Tests, Short Subjects Gallery and an Audio-Only Bonus: 3 Radio Show Adaption’s. Lastly “Becoming Attractions” is a collection of trailers of Humphrey Bogart Warner Night at the Movies 1941.

“Casablanca” packs the most extras of any of the films. Ther is a commentary track from Roger Ebert and also another from Historian Rudy Behlmer. There is an Introduction by Lauren Bacall and also additional scenes & outtakes, as well as scoring session outtakes. There are a few feaurettes, “Bacall on Bogart”, “You Must Remember This: A Tribute to Casablanca” and “As Time Goes By: The Children Remember”. “Who Hold Tomorrow?” is the premiere episode from the 1955 TV Series adaptation of Casablanca. There is a Radio Production with the Movie’s 3 Key Stars. Lastly there is a Production Research Gallery,
Homage Cartoon Carrotblanca with Bugs Bunny and some Theatrical Trailers.

Lastly, “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” also includes a commentary track from Bogart Biographer Eric Lax. There are a few featurettes including “Discovering Treasure: The Story of The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” and “Documentary Profile John Huston”. There is Warner Night at the Movies 1948 Short Subjects Gallery. Lastly there is a intro from Leonard Maltin, Newsreel footage, 2 Classic Cartoons, Comedy Short, Theatrical Trailers and an Audio-Only Bonus: Radio Show with the Movie’s Original Stars.

Get The Best of Bogart Collection for the first time, in one great Blu-ray collection, March 25th!

Actors: Tempestt Bledsoe, Lili Taylor, Steve Buscemi, Gina Gershon, Deborah Harry
Executive Produced: Richard P. Rubinstein
Number of discs: 9
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Entertainment One
Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 1560 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Any horror fan that grew up in the 80’s should remember the series “Monsters”, which used to play in syndication along with “Tales from the Darkside”. This anthology/horror series aired from 1988-91 with 72 half-hour episodes. This show is easily one of my favorites of all-time. No, it may not be the best but it certainly reminds me of my childhood and attributed to my love of horror today. I probably shouldn’t have been watching it at the age I did but I just couldn’t get enough of it. Luckily, thanks to Syfy and Chiller channels, this show was given a second life and has been showing over the last decade. The series has never been released on DVD EVER and thanks to eOne (who are my heroes this month), this series finally gets put out in a fantastic DVD box set.

This series delivered a great blend of horror along with comedy, sci-fi and fantasy. What I love about these episodes the most is that you are able to watch and re-watch them and they never get old. When they were re-airing on Syfy, I used to leave it on loop day after day and I couldn’t get enough. The practical effects in the film are fantastic and look great, of course not to today’s standards, but I remember I used to be quite scared of some of these show’s creations growing up, so I think it was quite effective. The show also was jam packed with an amazing cast of actors whether big stars then and big stars now. If you are reading this eOne, if you can get “Freddy’s Nightmare” complete series on DVD, I will be your best friend forever! This is must have for any horror fan, NO QUESTION!

Season one consists of the following episodes: 1. The Feverman; 2. Holly’s House; 3. New York Honey; 4. The Vampire Hunter; 5. My Zombie Lover; 6. Where’s The Rest Of Me?; 7. The Legacy; 8. Sleeping Dragon; 9. Pool Sharks; 10. Pillow Talk; 11. Rouse Him Not; 12. Fools Gold; 13. Glim-Glim; 14. Parents From Space; 15. The Mother Instinct; 16. Their Divided Self; 17. Taps; 18. The Match Game; 19. Rain Dance; 20. The Cocoon; 21. All In A Day s Work; 22. Satan In The Suburbs; 23. Mannikins Of Horror and 24. La Strega

Season one consists of the following notable talent including David McCallum (“The Man From U.N.C.L.E.”),  Marilyn Jones (“Murder, She Wrote”), ‘Little Mike’ Anderson (“Twin Peaks”), Andrea Thompson (“Babylon 5”), Robert Lansing (“Automan”), Tempestt Bledsoe (“The Cosby Show”), Meatloaf (“Fight Club”), Kin Shriner (“General Hospital”), John Diehl (“Stripes”), Mary Woronov (“Death Race 2000”), Alex Cord (“Airwolf”), Jeff Conaway (“Babylon 5”), Frank Gorshin (“Batman”), David L. Lander (“Laverne & Shirley”), Tori Spelling (“Beverly Hills, 90210”), Kent McCord (“Galactica: 1980”), Teri Copley (“We Got It Made”), Billy Drago (“The Untouchables”), Kim Johnson Ulrich (“As the World Turns”), Adrienne Barbeau (“The Fog”), James Morrison (“Space: Above & Beyond”), Eddie Velez (“The A-Team”), Christopher Noth (“Law & Order”), William Prince (“Dallas”), Linda Blair (“The Exorcist”), Rob Morrow (“Northern Exposure”)

Season two consists of the following episodes: 25. The Face; 26. Portrait Of The Artist; 27. A Bond Of Silk; 28. Rerun; 29. Love Hurts; 30. The Farmer’s Daughter; 31. Jar; 32. The Demons; 33. Reaper; 34. The Mandrake Root; 35. Half As Old As Time; 36. Museum Hearts; 37. Habitat; 38. Bed And Boar; 39. Mr. Swlabr; 40. Perchance To Dream; 41. One Wolf’s Family; 42. The Offering; 43. Far Below; 44. Micro Minds; 45. Refugee; 46. The Gift; 47. The Bargain and 48. The Family Man

Second two consists of the following notable talent including Darren McGavin (“A Christmas Story”), Lydia Cornell (“Too Close For Comfort”), Marc McClure (“Superman”), Ren Woods (“Beauty and the Beast”), Soupy Sales (“What’s My Line?”), George Hall (“The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles”), Fritz Weaver (“The Martian Chronicles”), Gina Gershon (“Showgirls”), Richard Moll (“Night Court”), Barbara Billingsley, Leif Garrett, Lili Taylor (“Almost Human”), Steve Buscemi (“Boardwalk Empire”), Raphael Sbarge (“Once Upon A Time”), Anne Meara (“ALF”), Jerry Stiller (“The King of Queens”), Amy Stiller (“Zoolander”), Orson Bean (“The Hobbit”), Barry Nelson (“The Shining”), Troy Donahue (“Surfside 6”), Judy Geeson (“Star Maidens”), Phillip Abbott (“The F.B.I.”), Abe Vigoda (“The Godfather”) and Kim Griest (“Manhunter”)

Season three consists of the following episodes: 49. Stressed Environment; 50. Murray’s Monster; 51. Bug House; 52. Cellmates; 53. Outpost; 54. The Hole; 55. Small Blessing; 56. Shave And A Haircut, Two Bites; 57. The Young And The Headless; 58. The Waiting Game; 59. Sin-Sop; 60. A New Woman; 61. Malcolm; 62. Household Gods; 63. The Space-Eaters; 64. The Waiting Room; 65. Leavings; 66. Desirable Alien; 67. A Face For Radio; 68. Werewolf Of Hollywood; 69. Talk Nice To Me; 70. The Moving Finger; 71. Hostile Takeover and 72. The Maker

Finally, season three consists of the following notable talent including Carol Lynley (“The Poseidon Adventure”), Joe Flaherty (“Freaks and Geeks”), Karen Sillas (“Under Suspicion”), Maxwell Caulfield (“Grease 2”), Juliet Mills (“Nanny and the Professor”), Julie Brown (“Earth Girls Are Easy”), Kevin Nealon (“Saturday Night Live), David Spade (“Dickie Roberts”), Wil Wheaton (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”), Matt LeBlanc (“Friends”), Linda Thorson (60’s “The Avengers”), Ed Lauter (“B.J. and the Bear”), Farley Granger (“Strangers on a Train”), John Saxon (“A Nightmare on Elm Street”), Tony Shalhoub (“Monk”), Deborah Harry (band member Blondie), Morton Downey, Jr. (“trash TV”), Laura Brannigan (American singer), Richard Belzer (“Homicide: Life on the Street”), David Spielberg (“One Life to Live”), Dennis Christopher (“Breaking Away”) and Pam Grier (“Jackie Brown”).

Having watched these episodes on TV as a kid, WAY before anything called high definition was around and then re-watching them on Syfy and Chiller in the last decade, they have never been delivered in great best condition. Today these episodes on DVD are not stunning but they do the trick and personally, I think the show has never looked better. There are no additional special features included in this set. I figure that they had as much talent as they did in this show, they could have gotten at least a few interviews or commentary tracks on these episodes but nonetheless, at least we have them. The set comes with three cases, each with its own season. There is great cover art for each particular season and there is great images in case the case as well. There is no boring black case here. They aimed to impress and succeed no question.

Voices: Jennifer Carpenter, Brian Bloom
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

When I saw that Sony and Marvel were teaming up for another animated feature film, I was psyched. I loved what they did with the past short series with Blade, Wolverine and X-Men. The animation style is reminiscence of a Japanese anime and the characters are given a slick make-over. As the title suggests, this film focus on two Marvel’ popular characters, Black Widow (voiced by Jennifer Carpenter, TV’’s ““Dexter””) and The Punisher (voiced by Brian Bloom, ““Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3””). Don’t let the cover art fool you either with the image of Iron Man, Thor and Hulk, since they along with a few other Avengers appear for a few minutes in the last few minutes of the film. This is a Black Widow and (some of) Punisher story solely. Parents need to note this is a very HARD PG-13 rating, very violent for sure. Overall, I thought it was worth a watch, but nothing amazing.

Official Premise: After interfering with a top secret mission, THE PUNISHER is taken into custody by S.H.I.E.L.D. AGENT and AVENGER, BLACK WIDOW. At the orders of Director Nick Fury, Punisher and Black Widow are sent on a mission to stop LEVIATHAN, a global terrorist organization that plans to sell stolen S.H.I.E.L.D. technology to the highest bidder. Now, the vigilante and spy must work together to prevent this technology from falling into the wrong hands. The fate of the world, and of the AVENGERS, hangs in the balance.

“Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher” is packaged as a Blu-ray/DVD combo with an HD Digital Ultraviolet copy included. Sony has always delivered consistently great animated titles. This film is no different it is a solid Blu-ray presentation. The animation style looks very sharp and the colors are very clear. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works well with the action scenes especially the final act, which is pretty epic. In terms of special features are two making-of Featurettes & Blu-ray™ Exclusive Conceptual Art Gallery. The two featurettes are ““Espionage and Punishment””, which dives into how these characters were adapted into this anime style. “The Vigilante Vs. The Spy” takes a look at these two characters from an origin perspective.

Actors: Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, Colin Farrell, Paul Giamatti, Jason Schwartzman
Directors: John Lee Hancock
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 120 minutes

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

When I originally heard about “Saving Mr. Banks” and it has Tom Hanks playing the legendary Walt Disney, I couldn’t be more thrilled. I love the film “Mary Poppins” and I thought it was going to be a great film. After watching it originally, I was a little disappointed to see that Hanks’ portrayal of the man behind Mickey Mouse was very supporting and the focus was on Emma Thompson role of Mary Poppins” author P.L. Travers and her life growing up. In fact, I really only enjoyed the parts in the film focusing on Walt Disney. Disney hardcore fans will enjoy. I will most likely not watch this again in the foreseable future.

Official Premise: Determined to fulfill a promise to his daughters, Walt Disney (Hanks) works for twenty years to secure the rights to author P.L. Travers’ (Thompson) beloved book. Armed with his iconic creative vision, Walt pulls out all the stops, but the uncompromising Travers won’t budge. Only when he reaches into his own complicated childhood does Walt discover the truth about the ghosts that haunt Travers, and together, the set Mary Poppins free.

Disney delivered “Saving Mr. Banks” with a Blu-ray combo pack including a Digital HD Ultraviolet copy. The 1080p transfer looks quite sharp. The colors are very vibrant especially the flashback scenes. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works well with the film’s beautiful score and music. In terms of special features this some decent extras but nothing amazing. “Walt Disney Studios: From Poppins to Present” is a tour of the Disney Studios lot with director Join Hancock. “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” has the cast and crew singing along on the last day of filming. Lastly there are three short deleted scenes included.

Actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, Matthew McConaughey, PJ Byrne, Rob Reiner, Jon Favreau and Jean Dujardin
Directors: Martin Scorsese
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Paramount
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 179 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“The Wolf of Wall Street” is definitely not a film for everyone. It is controversial, edgey and 1 minute shy of three hours in length. In fact, the film has also set the all-time record for the use of the f-word in a film, clocking in at 506 times. This is the fifth collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio and these guys just keep making gold. Leo is supported by a fantastic supporting cast including Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, Matthew McConaughey, PJ Byrne, Rob Reiner, Jon Favreau and Jean Dujardin…whew, what a cast. I really had a blast with this film. It is vulgar and sometimes (or a lot) offensive but it is quite the ride and it brought me back to watching Scorsese’s equally epic “Casino” on double VHS tapes…that’s right kiddies back when a three hour movie couldn’t find on one Blu-ray. So love it or hate it but this film is a blast and I sugguest you take it like that and not literally like they are trying to support these characters behavior but point out how fucked up that business was in the 90’s (and probably still is).

Official Premise: Revered filmmaker Martin Scorsese directs the story of New York stockbroker Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio). From the American dream to corporate greed, Belfort goes from penny stocks and righteousness to IPOs and a life of corruption in the late 80s. Excess success and affluence in his early twenties as founder of the brokerage firm Stratton Oakmont warranted Belfort the title – “The Wolf of Wall Street.” Money. Power. Women. Drugs. Temptations were for the taking and the threat of authority was irrelevant. For Jordan and his wolf pack, modesty was quickly deemed overrated and more was never enough.

Paramount delivered “The Wolf of Wall Street in a combo pack including Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital Ultraviolet copy. The 1080p transfer is absolutely amazing. You can see Scorsese’s vision the way this film was shot and it just looks great. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works so well with the film’s madness and amazing music heard through this film. The soundtrack is actually a favorite of mine as well from the year. The biggest downfall personally for me is the special features. There is literally only one extra included called “The Wolf Pack” It is the basic behind-the-scenes look with interviews from Scorsese, Dicaprio, Hill and a few other cast and crew. This extra is also only on the Blu-ray. The DVD comes bare bones. I would have loved to see a commentary track from any other the amazing cast or director from this film. This release is the case of the film being rushed out on Blu-ray to make it for post-award season.

Actors: Christian Bale, Woody Harrelson, Casey Affleck, Forest Whitaker, Willem Dafoe
Director: Scott Cooper
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: March 11, 2014
Run Time: 116 minutes

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

I am a huge fan of Christian Bale going back to the early days of “Newsies” and “Swing Kids”, but I did not see this film coming. It was completetly out of my radar when it was released and from its reception out of everyone elses as well it seemed. The film is directed by Scott Cooper (“Crazy Heart”), whom I respect very much. It also features an all-star cast including Woody Harrelson, Forest Whitaker, Willem Dafoe, Zoe Saldana and Sam Shepard. There is no shortage of talent. Still though the film just didn’t blow me away. The drama was there and the acting was great but I just felt like it was just going through the motions, never really grabbed me. For fans of the cast (and director) it will be worth checking out but I call this a one-timer and in five years I will have completely forgot about it.

Official Premise: From Scott Cooper, the critically acclaimed writer and director of Crazy Heart, comes a gripping and powerful drama about family, fate, circumstance and justice. Russell Baze (Oscarr Winner Christian Bale) leads a dead-end life – he works a meaningless steel mill job all day, and cares for his terminally ill father at night. When Russell’s brother Rodney (Casey Affleck) returns home from Iraq, he is lured into one of the Northeast’s most ruthless crime rings and mysteriously disappears. When the police fail to solve the case, Russell puts his life at risk in order to seek justice for his brother.

Fox delivered the film on Blu-ray with a combo pack including an HD Digital Ultraviolet copy. This is becoming the trend with pretty much any film Fox is releasing latetly and I really dig that. The 1080p transfer is quite solid. I liked the way the film was shot and it was nicely framed. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track worked well with the dialogue and Dickson Hinchliffe’s score. The special features are decent and contain four featurettes. “Inspiration” looks into the story behind the film behind made. “Scott Cooper” focuses on the film’s director. “Crafting the Fight Scenes” is a breakdown of a few of the films climatic moments. Lastly “The Music of Out of the Furnace” talks with composer Hinchliffe about his score.

Starring: James Franco, Jason Statham, Rachelle Lefevre, Winona Ryder, Frank Grillo, Kate Bosworth
Director: Gary Fleder
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: March 11, 2014
Running Time: 100 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

“Homefront” isn’t a bad film. It is action packed and was able to keep me interested the entire film. But I just wasn’t blown away. The film is adapted from the Chuck Logan novel of the same name by the one and only Sylvester Stallone. It definitely has that 90’s kick-ass action feel to it that Stallone has been trying to bring back. The cast is definitely impressive though including Jason Statham, James Franco, Winona Ryder and Kate Bosworth. I love Franco in the bad-guy role. Statham does what Statham does best…plays Statham. Action fans should check out for nostalgia purposes but otherwise this will not be for everyone.

Official Premise: Widowed ex-DEA agent Phil Broker (Statham) retires to a quiet Southern town with his 10-year-old daughter and discovers that the idyllic setting is riddled with drugs and violence. When a riveting chain of events forces him to face off with psychotic local drug lord Gator Bodine (Franco), Broker must retaliate using the fearsome skills he hoped to keep in his past.

Despite the film, Universal delivered an impressive Blu-ray combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital UltraViolet copy. The 1080p transfer really captures that 90’s feel to it, while looking quite sharp especially with the action sequences. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also sounded awesome for this film and really gave my surround sound a solid workout. Things don’t get much better in the special features department for this release. There are a few short deleted scenes included, one of them being extended ending. Lastly there is a short promo called “Standoff”. Nothing here of value at all.

Starring: Dominic Purcell
Director: Uwe Boll
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: March 11, 2014
Run Time: 86 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

I love Uwe Boll’s films. I always have ever since “House of the Dead”. His films are definitely not for everyone, he has a specific group that he aims to please and definitely does it again with this latest installment in this series. I think that the first “In the Name of the King” was underrated. I thought the second film with Dolph Lundgren was actually better than the first. Dominic Purcell is great in this film and has worked with Uwe on numerous films in the last few years. If you like this series and looking for a fun no-brainer fantasy action flick, then check this out! If we can only convince someone to make him make another “Bloodrayne” movie!

Official Premise: Looper meets Clash of the Titans in the next chapter of the video game-inspired non-stop fantasy action adventure where Hazen Kaine (Dominic Purcell), an American hitman, skeptically enters into what he hopes is his final contract with corrupt European crime lords. When Hazen realizes he’s been tasked with an impossible mission involving the countries royal family, the stakes change and his mission turns into an all-out fight for survival that takes him spiraling back to medieval times. Now completely out of his element, he must evade a vile medieval army and reclaim a stolen kingdom.

Fox delivered this third and last film in the series with a Blu-ray combo pack including a Digital HD Ultraviolet copy as well. Even though the film was low-budget, film does pack some quality as does all Boll’s films. He is a resourceful guy and his films look like they are budgeted much higher than they look. The 1080p transfer is solid and works well with the visual effects. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which is great for the action scenes. The only main downfall for me was in the special features, which only includes “The Making of In the Name of the King 3: The Last Mission”, which runs just under 15 minutes.

Actors: Sophie Nélisse, Kelly Macdonald, Michael Shannon, Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson
Directed by Brian Percival
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: March 11, 2014
Run Time: 131 minutes

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

“The Book Thief” is a film that got lost in the sea of films that came out last Fall. It is best on the best-selling book by Markus Zusak. It takes place in Germany during WWII, which is a tough sell sometimes. But this film is really well-done and deserves some attention. The acting is amazing. Sophie Nélisse steals your heart, while Kelly Macdonald, Michael Shannon, Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson all give wonderful performances as well. The locations where the film are shot are stunning and it is topped off with another wonderful score from master composer John Williams. I would definitely recommend giving this unnoticed film a chance!

Official Premise: Based on the beloved best-selling book comes a story of a girl who transforms the lives of those around her during World War II, Germany. When her mother can no longer care for her, Liesel (Sophie Nélisse) is adopted by a German couple (OSCAR® Winner Geoffrey Rush and OSCAR® Nominee Emily Watson). Although she arrives illiterate, Liesel is encouraged to learn to read by her adoptive father. When the couple then takes in Max (Ben Schnetzer), a Jew hiding from Hitler’s army, Liesel befriends him. Ultimately, words and imagination provide the friends with an escape from the events unfolding around them in this extraordinary, acclaimed film directed by Brian Percival (Downton Abbey).

The Blu-ray from Fox comes as a combo pack including a Digital HD Ultraviolet copy as well. The 1080p transfer is solid and really works well with the backdrop of Germany. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is beautiful and hauting at the same time and really showcases Williams’ score very well.  In terms of special features, things are a little light there is one featurette looking into the behind-the-scenes “Hidden Truth: Bringing The Book Thief To Life”. Besides that there are only some Deleted Scenes and a Theatrical Trailer included. I would have loved to had a commentary track at least from the director…or even better the author.

Actors: Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence
Directors: David O. Russell
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 138 minutes

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

“American Hustle” was really not my cup of tea. I thought that the acting was quite phenomenal especially Jennifer Lawrence but overall, I thought it was long and switched too much from comedy to drama that I wasn’t sure when or if I should be laughing or cringing. Amy Adams and Bradley Cooper definitely deserves their Oscar nominations, no question. Cooper was a nutso in this film (poor Louis C.K.) and Christian Bale should have been nominated for Best Hair of the year. “Silver Linings Playbook” was easily one of my favorite films of 2012 but I was not a fan of “The Fighter” from David O. Russell, so I think him and I are hit and miss. Did I mention that Jennifer Lawrence was amazing in this film, I think more of her could have easily won me over.

Official Premise: A fictional film set in the alluring world of one of the most stunning scandals to rock our nation, “American Hustle” tells the story of brilliant con man Irving Rosenfeld (Bale), who along with his equally cunning and seductive British partner Sydney Prosser (Adams) is forced to work for a wild FBI agent Richie DiMaso (Cooper). DiMaso pushes them into a world of Jersey powerbrokers and mafia that’s as dangerous as it is enchanting. Renner plays Carmine Polito, the passionate, volatile, New Jersey political operator caught between the con-artists and Feds. Irving’s unpredictable wife Rosalyn (Lawrence) could be the one to pull the thread that brings the entire world crashing down. Like David O. Russell’s previous films (The Fighter, Silver Linings Playbook), “American Hustle” defies genre, hinging on raw emotion, and life and death stakes.

Since this film was only available for us to review on DVD, I will not go into the video and audio much but the film this isn’t really a film that NEEDS to be seen in high definition anyway. The DVD is delivered as a combo pack with an HD Digital Ultraviolet copy as well. When it comes down to the special features though, this film does not improve much either. There is only one feature to look behind-the-scenes at “The Making of American Hustle”, which is decent. Besides that there are some deleted and extended scenes. I thought when I first watching this film that maybe I would have enjoyed this a little more again with a nice commentary track to complement the film but I guess that is not going to happen.

Creators: Chris Nee
Voices: Kiara Muhammad
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Disney Junior’s “Doc McStuffins” is such a great show for kids. It delivers such great messages for young children to learn, while also still having fun. The show has such great (and very catchy) music. The songs are just a blast and my daughter, who nearly has been watching since she was born and now nearly two just loves them. With the start of season two, Doc went mobile with her new mobile clinic which allows her to make house calls to treat broken toys. I think this was a great idea for the show (and also for the merchandise department in Disney). I wish they will take advantage of this mobile unit in future episodes. This is “Doc McStuffins” third DVD release and I am sure there will be more, so just keep them coming Disney.

Official Premise: Now, if you can’t come to Doc, she can come to you! When your toys are hurt or sick, the “Doc Mobile” will get there quick with everything needed – including on-site cuddles – to fix them good as new. Ride with Doc and her trusty team as they rescue Dress-Up Daisy from a tree. Then, race to the park in time to help a wind-up mouse get back to doing fantastic flips. Get ready to get movin’ with five amazing, song-filled episodes. Wherever adventure takes you, Doc’s Mobile Clinic is your ticket to healthy, happy fun!

This DVD contains five episodes from the series including “Doc McStuffins Goes McMobile/Chip Off the Ol’ Block”, “Doc to the Rescue/Don’t Knock the Noggin”, “Out of the Box/Run Down Race Car”, “Rescue Ronda, Ready for Takeoff/All Washed Up”, “Rest Your Rotors, Ronda!/Keep On Truckin'”. These are all fun episodes and don’t want to knock other shows on Disney Junior and repeat myself but they really have great underlying messages. If you watch a show like “Jake and the Never Land Pirates”, they do certain things and get rewarded with coins, this show teaches kids about playing together, how to be safe etc all while having fun. I appreciate that much more for my child to watch personally.

Actors: Kristen Bell, Josh Gad, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff, Santino Fontana
Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 102 minutes

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

The film “Frozen” has become quite the phenomenon over the last few months. Before this film came out, I would go to Target and there was an entire aisle set out for this film. I knew then this was going to be huge but no idea how big it would have become though. The film recently grossed a billion dollars worldwide at the box office and has inspired many fans. It also just won Best Animated Movie and Best Song at this year’s Oscars. No question, this is the best film of 2013 and quite possible one of the best films from Disney in a long time. Eat it Pixar!

Disney not only gives us one but two new princesses in this film. Very smart on the marketing side, Kristen Bell (“Veronica Mars”) is absolutely amazing as Anna and really embodies the role. Plus she can really sing so well! Idina Menzel (Broadway’s “Wicked” and “Rent”) is also perfect as Elsa. Her song “Let it Go” has really inspired the world. Jonathan Groff (Broadway’s “Spring Awakening”) is definitely the honest goods as Kristoff. Santino Fontana (“Billy Elliot: The Musical”) plays a baddie you love (including my daughter) as Hans. The stealer of the show has to go to Josh Gad (Broadway’s “The Book of Mormon”) who gives live to the lovable snowman Olaf. There is a real Broadway feel to this film with the cast and it works so well.

Official Premise: Fearless optimist Anna sets off on an epic journey — teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven — to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom.

Disney released “Frozen” in this Collector’s edition Blu-ray combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD copy. I have a real major problem with Disney leaving out the 3D Blu-ray option for this film. I thought the 3D really worked so well for this movie and I am really disappointed that it is not available. Come on Disney! If you want it the only option to buy the UK version of get it digitally. The 1080p transfer is still absolutely perfect and stunning. The animation is this film is so amazing and breathtaking. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track, which is also flawless and really works so well with these amazing instant classic songs.

In terms of special features, they are definitely fun and worth checking out but I was really hoping for more. “The Making Of Frozen” is really fun and totally not what I was expecting (in a good way)…watch to see. “D’frosted: Disney’s Journey From Hans Christian Andersen to Frozen” takes us through the process of this film getting made. “Breaking The Ice- The Real Making Of Frozen” gives into the behind-the-scenes…for real this time. There are four Deleted Scenes with introductions by Directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee. There is the original theatrical short – “Get A Horse” (but not in 3D). Lastly there is music videos for “Let It Go” by Demi Lovato, Martina Stoessel & Marsha Milan Londoh and a teaser trailer included for the film.

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