Actors: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney
Directors: Alfonso Cuaron
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

I cannot recall an experience that I had in theaters like “Gravity” in a very long time. I was found myself emotionally effected throughout the film. I was blown away and even exhausted after viewing it. Sandra Bullock hasn’t been a favorite of mine but she was outstanding in this film. George Clooney is as charming as ever. Alfonoso Cuaron did such a beautiful job on this film. When you read into it and find out how much work was actually done to make this project come to life it is unbelievable. The visuals are out of this world…literally. If I had to describe this film in one word would be “Breathtaking”. No question, this was the best film of 2013.

Official Premise: Dr. Ryan Stone (Bullock) is a brilliant medical engineer on her first shuttle mission, with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (Clooney) in command. But on a seemingly routine mission, disaster strikes. The shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalski completely alone, tethered to nothing but each other and spiraling out into the darkness. The deafening silence tells them they’ve lost any link to Earth and any chance for rescue. As fear turns to panic, every gulp of air eats away at what little oxygen is left, and the only way home may be to go further out into the terrifying expanse of space.

For this release of “Gravity”, Warner packaged up a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital Ultraviolet copy. The Blu-ray being reviewed here is not the 3D Blu-ray, which is ashame but “Gravity” was literally the best 3D film that I seen since “Avatar”…and I watch A LOT of 3D films. The 2D transfer is still outstanding and flawless just missing that extra “Wow” for me. The 1080p transfer is perfect and will stand up as one of the best of the year, I am definite. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also absolutely amazing. It is not a 7.1 track, which maybe disappoint some but I was left very satisfied. This track especially complements Steve Price’s score. This score was one of the best scores that I have heard in recent years and it is represented very well. It also plays out like a third character in the film, which I loved.

The special features are absolutely amazing like the film, but I wish they wrapped it all up with a commentary track. “Gravity: Mission Control” is a very in-depth 107 minutes behind-the-scenes look into the prodcution. There are nine mini-featurettes included within this as well focusing on everything from cast to visual effects. “Shot Breakdown” is a nearly 40 minute look into five of the films most impressive FX shots. Amazing stuff here. “Aninigaag: A Short Film by Jonas Cuaron”, which is a short film tieing of the films most emotional scenes together. Lastly “Collison Point: The Race to Clean Up Space” is narrated by Ed Harris and takes about the real-life crisis happening now.

Own Gravity on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD 2/25

Actors: Elle Deets, Yuri Lowenthal
Directors: Richard Rich
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

“The Swan Princess” started back as a 1994 animated fantasy musical film based on the ballet “Swan Lake”. Fast forward to 2014 and we get “The Swan Princess: A Royal Family Tale”, which is the fifth film in the series and which also celebrates the 20th anniversary. The film is cute but the animation is low-grade and it couldn’t keep our attention for the short 80 minutes.

Richard Rich has been behind this series from the beginning and has directed and produced each and everyone of these sequels. He is also behind the sequels in the “Alpha and Omega” series. You have to give him props for keeping it going for five films now but I think it might be time to call it quits on this series. These stories are all stand-alone, so I am sure he can keep it going for twelve movies like “The Land Before Time” but this will probably be the last one I watch.

Official Premise: Shortly after the Royal Family adopts a young girl named Alise, she is taken away into the forest. Princess Odette, Prince Derek and their woodland friends, Jean-Bob the Frog and Speed the Turtle, must work together to find a way to bring her home to the castle.

Sony delivers this film in a two disc combo back with a Blu-ray + DVD and HD Digital Ultraviolet Copy. In terms of special features, there are two bonus Sing-A-Long videos for ““We Wanna Hear From You”” and ““Right Where I Belong””. Also included is a free, sparkly tiara for those little young princesses and a free Shutterfly Photo Book ($29.99 value) for the parents. Honestly, this is worth the purchase alone just for the photo book.

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Starring: Rob Lowe, Will Rothhaar, Ginnifer Goodwin, Michelle Trachtenberg, Jack Noseworthy, Casey Siemaszko
Director: Nelson McCormick
Rated: TV-14
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 87 / 90 minutes

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

“Killing Kennedy” is based on the 2012 non-fiction book of the same title by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard. The film premiered on National Geographic Channel on November 10, 2013. It stars Rob Lowe as President John F. Kennedy, Will Rothhaar as Lee Harvey Oswald, Ginnifer Goodwin as Jacqueline Kennedy, Michelle Trachtenberg as Marina Oswald and Will Rothhaar as Lee Harvey Oswald. Produced by the late Tony Scott (“Unstoppable”) and Ridley Scott (“Prometheus”). I enjoyed the film but I did feel like it had too much a TV movie quality about it. It did have great performances from everyone in the cast. I was interested to see what Lowe could do with JFK and he nailed it.

Official Premise: The film traces the chilling events leading up to the gunshot heard around the world: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy by Lee Harvey Oswald in Dallas in 1963. As John F. Kennedy (Lowe) rises to become U.S. president, a former Marine grows disillusioned with America. But when their paths ultimately cross, the course of history is changed forever in a chilling aftermath.

When “Killing Kennedy” aired on National Geographic, it ran about 88 minutes without commercials. The made-for-TV thriller is presented here with an never-before-seen extended cut, which runs about three minutes extra. Fox delivered this Blu-ray with an HD Digital Ultraviolet copy as well.  The 1080p transfer is solid for a TV movie and a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works well creating the thrilling drama. In terms of special features, there is “Killing Kennedy: An Interview with Author Bill O’Reilly”, which gives good insight into the story. There is also a featurette “The Kennedy Mystique”. Both of these are work checking out for history junkies, no question.

Creator: Leslie Stevens
Starring: Hugh O’Brian, Tony Franciosa, Doug McClure, Burgess Meredith
Distributed by: Warner Archive Collection
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 1150 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Fans of this series have been awaiting this complete series release for a while. Back in 2011, the Warner Archive Collection put out “Probe” on DVD, which is the pilot telefilm for this 1972 NBC series. This 6-Disc set contains all 23-episodes from this short-lived, yet respected series. I am a technology nerd and this show was way ahead of its time with its gadgets and goodies. I think this is probably why this show didn’t last. “Search” had a great cast including Hugh O’Brian, Doug McClure, Tony Franciosa and the great Burgess Meredith. The show was clever and quite sharp and if you are a fan of this show, this is a no-brainer.

Official Premise: Hugh O’Brian, Doug McClure and Tony Franciosa rotate leads as elite high tech espionage operatives for Probe Division of World Securities Corporation in this spy-sensational SF-flavored actioner from Leslie Stevens (creator, The Outer Limits) and Robert Justman (Producer and one of the guiding lights of Star Trek and Star Trek: The Next Generation). Each agent, dubbed a “Probe”, is wired for worldwide surveillance thanks to a Scanner (miniature video camera) and dental/ear implant. Tracking their telemetry and giving real-time mission advice is a team of specialists at Probe Control directed by the brilliant, irascible V.C.R. Cameron (Burgess Meredith).

This show also has a great collection of special guests including Stefanie Powers, Bill Bixby, Mary Ann Mobley, Sebastian Cabot, Barbara Feldon, Mel Ferrer and Joanna Cameron. This series has never been before released on DVD and thanks to Warner Archive, fans of this show can finally own this complete series. The episodes do not have with a brand new restoration but they are still solid within their original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The episode include a mono track, which works for the DVD. This release from Warner Archive is made to order and will be available only for a limited time. There are no additional special features included on this DVD.

Actors: Frank Welker, Stephanie D’Abruzzo, Grey DeLisle Griffin, Matthew Lillard, John Rhys-Davies
Directors: Jomac Noph
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Run Time: 45 minutes

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

I love “Scooby Doo”, I grew up watching it and now I have a daughter of my own that I can share it with. “Scooby-Doo! Adventures: The Mystery Map” is a unique take on the series since it is done with all puppets. That’s right puppets! I think it works for the most part. I still prefer classic animation but I enjoyed the change. Most importantly, my 20 month old daughter enjoyed this quite a bit. It is short, running 45 minutes, so it also kept her attention the entire time. I would recommend checking this out whether you are an old time “Scooby Doo” fan or if you have kids (for sure).

Official Premise: Get ready to experience the world-famous Scooby-Doo! and Crew like never before in this all-new, original puppet movie! What begins as a routine night for the Gang — which includes the slobbering sleuth and Shaggy eating a triple-extra-large Scooby snack pizza — becomes a mad dash to find the frightening Phantom Parrot, who has a map to pirate Gnarlybeard’s hidden treasure. Scooby sniffs out the map’s clues, which lead him right to a spooky pirate ship. Ruh-roh! What will Gnarlybeard be willing to do to protect his booty? The whole family will love casting off on this mysterious, fun-filled voyage again and again.

There are two bonus cartoons included along with this film. “The Backstage Rage” is the ninth episode of the first season of “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!”, which first aired back in 1969. The other is “Robopup”, which is the twelfth episode of the first season of “A Pup Named Scooby-Doo” that aired back in 1988. It may be a whole lot of extras but when you have young child that asks for “More” after the film is over, it was nice to have another 45 minutes of episodes to share with her.

Actors: Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, Stacy Keach, Bob Odenkirk, Missy Doty
Director: Alexander Payne
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Run Time: 114 minutes

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

Alexander Payne’s films are usually quite unique and different than standard film. “Nebraska” looked different right from the start since it is filmed in black and white. Personally, I feel like it is a little too long running nearly two hours. I think this would have been much better running at 90 minutes. It does have some amazing performances from Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, Bob Odenkirk. Everyone thinks of Will Forte as just a funnyman and he is quite funny in this but he also has a great dramatic side. This might not be for everyone but I enjoyed it’s subtle aspects.

Official Premise: From Academy Award winner Alexander Payne, the director of Sideways and The Descendants, comes the film that critics are calling “An American Masterpiece.” When a father (Bruce Dern) and his adult son (Will Forte) embark on a journey to claim a million-dollar prize, what begins as a fool’s errand becomes a search for the road to redemption. Discover why Nebraska is “one of those movies I’ll watch for the rest of my life.”

Paramount delivers this combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital UltraViolet copy. The 1080p transfer is solid and works well with the black and white shot film. I thought that the choice to shoot this film this way really added a lot of character. The audio consists of an interesting choice with it’s DTS-HD Master Audio 3.0 track, this is a different choice but it works well. There is only one special feature included on this release but it does cover a decent amount of ground looking behind-the-scenes. “The Making of Nebraska” looks into the script, cast and characters, locations, shooting in black and white and more. Would have loved to see a commentary track for this film.

Starring: Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Maximiliano Hernandez, Noah Emmerich, Margo Martindale
Number of discs: 3
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 572 minutes

Season: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Last year, I received a lot of emails and press releases from FX for their new show “The Americans”. I didn’t really give it a second look. Then a buddy of mine that never recommends any TV or movies to me says that he was obsessed with this show and I thought “Wait a second, I might need to check this show out”. Well, I am glad I did because is thrilling, smart and comes packed with a fantastic cast. Now that I am hooked on this series, I will be anxiously waiting the second season premiere on February 26, 2014.

Official Premise: Secrets can be deadly in this suspenseful thriller about undercover Russian spies in 1980s Washington, D.C. Philip (Matthew Rhys) and Elizabeth Jennings (Keri Russell) seem to be a typical suburban couple, but they’re actually lethal KGB agents plotting to bring down America. As the Cold War escalates, Philip and Elizabeth must take extreme measures to continue their mission and keep their true identities hidden. But when an FBI agent moves in across the street, they become ensnared in a pulse-pounding game of cat and mouse.

“The Americans” looks really sharp on Blu-ray. I love the cinematography in this show. It is show very well. The 1080p transfers really are awesome for these episodes which transform NYC into Washington D.C. Having worked in both of these locations, I loved trying to figure out where these episodes were shot. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks are also impressive as well. Nathan Barr’s score for this show is great. It is thrilling and adds great tension to the episodes.

There are great special features included for the Blu-ray release. There is an audio commentary track for the season finale, “The Colonel”, with Joseph Weisberg, Joel Fields and Noah Emmerich. I would have loved to see a few more tracks but this episode was great and we get some great info. There are three featurettes going behind-the-scenes into the show with “Executive Order 2579: Exposing the Americans”, “Perfecting the Art of Espionage” and “Ingenuity Over Technology”. There is also a Gag Reel and Deleted Scenes included for this season.

Starring: Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, John C. Reilly, Lucy Liu
Director: Rob Marshall
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 113 minutes

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

Rob Marshall’s award winner musical “Chicago” is a great musical and probably is responsible for bringing the musical back in so many words. The film has an all-star cast including Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, Richard Gere, Queen Latifah and John C. Reilly. I do not really understand why this film is getting a new “Diamond Edition” Blu-ray right now but is definitely worth checking out. I have seen this show on Broadway and yet the film actually supersedes the play. A must own for any fan of the film.

Official Premise: At a time when crimes of passion result in celebrity headlines, nightclub sensation Velma Kelly (Zeta-Jones) and spotlight seeking Roxie Hart (Zellweger) both find themselves sharing space on Chicago’s famed Murderess Row. They also share Billy Flynn (Gere), the town’s slickest lawyer with a talent for turning notorious defendants into local legends. But in Chicago, there’s only room for one legend!

Lions Gate delivered this Diamond Edition with a brand new, fully restored transfer. They are releasing this film as a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital UltraViolet copy. I was blown away with this film when I first saw it and it looks stunning on Blu-ray. The Dolby TrueHD 7.1 audio surround track sounds stunning. The songs have never sounded better and really benefit also from this new track. This new transfer and upgraded audio is a perfect reason to pick up this Blu-ray.

In terms of special features, there is some great content. “Chicago in the Spotlight” is a brand new retrospective documentary with cast and crew. I would have been happy with the new transfer and audio track but they even went one step further with this extra content. There is an interesting and informative audio commentary with director Rob Marshall and screenwriter Bill Condon. There is a deleted musical number “Class” performed by Catherine Zeta-Jones and Queen Latifah. Lastly there is featurette focusing on “From Stage to Screen: The History of Chicago”.

Starring: Clifton Collins, Jr., Clancy Brown, Andre Royo
Director: J.T. Petty
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: February 18, 2014
Run Time: 87 minutes

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

I can’t apologize I am a sucker for horror films. Make it 3D horror and you really have me locked in. I have been a fan of horror director JT Petty (“The Burrowers”) since his first film “Soft for Digging”, which I remember he personally sent me on a VHS tape in the last 90’s. Top it off with a great cast including Clifton Collins Jr. (“The Boondock Saints II”) and Clancy Brown (“SpongeBob SquarePants”). This film is over-the-top and crazy as hell. Great visuals and If you love unique horror films, I would definitely recommend checking this film out for a fun time.

Official Premise: There are demons so terrible that no mortal man of God could successfully drive them back to Hell. The only option is for the exorcist himself to invite possession and then commit suicide, dragging along the demon to damnation – so the Augustine Interfaith Order of Hellbound Saints – or Hellbenders – was formed. A group of elite, highly-trained exorcists, they live in a constant state of debauchery so they will be ready to go to Hell at any moment. When an infernal Norse demon called Black Surtr escapes into New York City intent on cracking open the gates of Hell, the Hellbenders must use every ounce of their debauchery to battle the demon and save the planet from eternal damnation!

Lions Gate really gave this film the treatment. It delivers a combo pack with a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + HD Digital UltraViolet copy. The 1080p transfer is fantastic and really sharp. The film was shot in state of the art 3D and it really pops off the screen. I thought it was very well done and it really suits the film. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which works well the action and the fantastic horror score. There is some decent special features included. There is a great audio commentary with writer/director JT Petty. There are also two behind-the-scenes featurette, “God’s Dirty Work – The Making of Hellbenders” and “Fly on the Wall”

Starring: George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe
Director: Wes Anderson
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Criterion Collection
Release Date: February 18, 2014
Run Time: 87 minutes

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

Even since I was a kid, I have been fascinated with the work of Roald Dahl. When I heard that Wes Anderson was going to give his unique approach to the “Fantastic Mr. Fox” story of with stop-motion puppets, I couldn’t have been more excited. The film is so much fun and speaks to both kids and adults. You can see how much work went into each second of the film and it is just amazing. It also includes an amazing voice cast with George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman, Willem Dafoe, Michael Gambon and Bill Murray. Every time I watch this film it only get better. Easily my favorites and finally it is given the Blu-ray treatment it deserves thanks to The Criterion Collection. This is a must own for any fan of this film!

Official Premise: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” is the story of a clever, quick, nimble, and exceptionally well-dressed wild animal. A compulsive chicken thief turned newspaper reporter, Mr. Fox settles down with his family at a new foxhole in a beautiful tree directly adjacent to three enormous poultry farms—owned by three ferociously vicious farmers: Boggis, Bunce, and Bean. Mr. Fox simply cannot resist.

When I see that a film is getting a The Criterion Collection release, you know that it is going to be taken care of. With “Fantastic Mr. Fox”, it actually did receive a solid Blu-ray release back in 2010, so I was very curious to see how they were going to one-up that release. Well, I was not let down at all with this new digital master, approved by director Wes Anderson. It has never looked better. The stop-motion animation really strives with the brilliant colors which are presented so beautifully. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio also with the fantastic score from Alexandre Desplat. It is well-balanced surround track and also a nice improvement from the previous release. Literally blown-away!

This Criterion Collection comes stocked with one Blu-ray and two DVDs for the film, with all content available in both formats. Now that is a real treat, so you have various options when wanting to watch this. Another great treat included is a a booklet featuring a new essay; a 2002 article on Dahl’s Gipsy House by Anderson; White Cape, a comic book used as a prop in the film; and drawings, original paintings, and other ephemera. I think companies have forgotten what it is like when you used to open a DVD or Blu-ray case and actually find a booklet or pamplet in there. Nowadays, it is bare-bones usually. Thankfully, Criterion holds that tradition and continues to deliver even outside of the film’s presentations.

If you own the 2010 Blu-ray from 20th Century Fox already, be advised that this new Criterion Collection comes stocked with great new extras not available on Blu-ray previously. Firstly, there is a very fun and interesting audio commentary with Wes Anderson. There are storyboard animatics for the entire film, this is a MUST watch! There is great footage of the actors voicing their characters, puppet construction, stop-motion setups, and the recording of the score. There are interviews with cast and crew. I am huge fan of stop-motion animation and I loved watching the puppet animation tests, it is really amazing (and very hard) work!

There is a fantastic photo gallery of puppets, props, and sets. There the Animated awards acceptance speeches. My favorite is an audio recording of author Roald Dahl reading the book on which the film is based. There is gallery of Dahl’s original manuscripts, this was really neat to get to dive into. There is also an interesting and in-depth discussion and analysis of the film. I think this film deserves a good discussion because even though it might be considered a kids film since it is animated, it really isn’t completely. Lastly there is the Stop-motion Sony robot commercial by Wes Anderson rounding out the extras.

Actors: Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, Diane Kruger
Directors: Jaco Van Dormael
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Run Time: 157 minutes

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

When I first saw the trailer for “Mr. Nobody” on a Blu-ray for another film from Magnolia Home Entertainment. I thought how the hell haven’t I heard about this film. In fact, this film was made back in 2008 and was even released on DVD and Blu-ray Disc in France on in 2010, through Pathé. This film is most likely getting the treatment in the U.S. due to Leto’s role in “Dallas Buyer’s Club”. The film is very interesting and quick visually impressive. If you are a looking for something different on a Friday night, I would definitely recommend checking this out. It is quite unique and keeps your interest through the whole film.

Official Premise: “Mr. Nobody” tells the life story of Nemo Nobody, a 118 year-old man who is the last mortal on Earth after the human race has achieved quasi-immortality. On his deathbed, Nemo shares his life story with a reporter and reviews the choices he made along the way. Yet even with his last breath, a pivotal decision awaits to conclude his destiny.

The 1080p transfer is quite impressive. The film has quite a bit of visual effects and they really looks stunning.  Also benefiting from this is the impressive cinematography. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is also works very well, especially with Pierre Van Dormael’s score. This Blu-ray is also a treat people it includes an Extended Director’s Cut of the film, which runs at a stunning 157 minutes. The theatrical version is also included on the disc, which runs 141 minutes, though in only presented in 720p. The special features are a let down since there is only a short EPK featurette, “AXS TV: A Look at Mr. Nobody” and a Theatrical Trailer.

Actors: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Tom Hollander
Directors: Richard Curtis
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: February 4, 2014
Running Time: 123 minutes

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

“About Time” locked in my interest since it is from the director of “Love Actually”, Richard Curtis. This is in fact Ricahrd Curtis’ last film ever (which is a damn shame). The film has a stunning cast, who all give funny yet touching performances including Rachel McAdams (“The Notebook”), Bill Nighy (“Love Actually”) and Domhnall Gleeson (“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 & Part 2“). Usually I am not a huge fan of romantic comedies but when I read this featured time travel, that was enough of a sell for me. “Love Actually” is one of my favorite films ever and Richard Curtis has done it again, he does not only entertain you with this film but also able to get a grown man to shed some tears. I cannot recommend this film anymore, no question it is one of the best films I have seen recently.

Official Premise: The night after another unsatisfactory New Year party, Tim’s (Domhnall Gleeson) father (Bill Nighy) tells his son that the men in his family have always had the ability to travel through time. Tim can’t change history, but he can change what happens and has happened in his own life – so he decides to make his world a better place…by getting a girlfriend (Rachel McAdams). But as his unusual life progresses, Tim finds out that his unique gift can’t save him from the sorrows and ups and downs that affect all families, everywhere. From filmmaker Richard Curtis (Love Actually), About Time is a comedy about love and time travel, which discovers that, in the end, making the most of life may not need time travel at all.

Universal consistently delivers fantastic Blu-ray releases. They really have been a leader for this format and when I receive a Universal release, I am usually never let down. “About Time” comes stocked as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy with UltraViolet. This film is a romantic comedy, so it doesn’t push the barriers too much but the 1080p transfer is quite impressive still. The shooting locations definitely do take advantage of this format though. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track works great with the film. I was a big fan of the score by Nick Laird-Clowes and I thought it sounded great.

There are some great special features for this release. “About Tim and Time Travel” looks into the mechanics of time travel and Tim’s ability. “The Look – Style and Locations” looks into the various iconic London locations. “The World of Richard Curtis” looks into the director’s look and feel of a film. Next up, there is a fantastic jam-packed audio commentary track with Director Richard Curtis and Domhnall Gleeson, Bill Nighy, Vanessa Kirby, Lydia Wilson and Tom Hollander. There are some deleted scenes with introductions by Director Richard Curtis, as well as blooper reel. The “Luckiest” Music looks at why Curtis picked Ben Folds’ “The Luckiest”. Lastly there is a music video for Ellie Goulding ‘s “How Long Will I Love You?”, which is such a beautiful song and adds so much to the film itself!

Actors: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Rupert Graves, Una Stubbs, Mark Gatiss
Directors: Jeremy Lovering, Colm McCarthy, Nick Hurran
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 262 minutes

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

“Sherlock” has become quite the high profile show in the last year or so, most likely due to the blowing up of actor Benedict Cumberbatch. The combination of him with Martin Freeman (another phenomonal actor) is just so perfect. I know that these episodes are like little mini-movies but I would have loved to have more than just three episodes included this season. Hopefully BBC knows what it has on its hands now and before Cumberbatch gets too big, I hope they lock in another season quick.  The three episodes included are: “The Empty Hearse,” “The Sign of Three” and “His Last Vow.” If you enjoyed the first two seasons, this one builds on them and doesn’t disappoint.

Official Premise (Spoiler Alert if you haven’t seen Season 1 & 2): Two years after the devastating fallout of “The Reichenbach Fall,” Dr. John Watson has moved on with his life. New horizons, romance and a comforting domestic future beckon. But with London under threat of a huge terrorist attack, Sherlock Holmes is about to return with all the theatricality that comes so naturally. It’s what his best friend wanted more than anything, but for John Watson it might well be a case of “be careful what you wish for.” If Sherlock thinks everything will be just as he left it, though, he’s in for a very big surprise.

This Blu-ray arrives just two weeks after the conclusion of the series in the U.S. and as much as I wanted to have it immediately, I feel that BBC might have rushed a little too much to get this one out there. The episodes are only presented with an 1080i transfer. The transfers doesn’t look bad but its the point of the matter that bugs me. I know they can do better since shows like “Doctor Who” were upgraded to 1080p also. Same goes for the soundtrack, since here we only get a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. Now I’ve said this before but that isn’t Blu-ray quality for me. I was quite disappointed overall with the choices they went it.

I know that BBC hasn’t been including a Digital HD copy for shows like “Doctor Who” but they did with mini-series “Spies of Warsaw” and this show reminds me of that kind of show. I would have loved to see this available for Ultraviolet. In terms of special features, there are three featurettes included. The first is “The Fall”, which looks into this season’s events. Next up is “Fans, Villains & Speculation: The Legacy of Sherlock Holmes” looks into the popularity of the show and the character. Lastly “Shooting Sherlock” focusing on the production for this season.

Actors: Monica Calhoun, Morris Chestnut, Melissa De Sousa, Taye Diggs, Regina Hall
Directors: Malcolm D. Lee
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: February 11, 2014
Running Time: 123 minutes

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

In 1999, I was working at a video store and I remember that the ensemble comedy “The Best Man” was almost impossible to keep on the shelves. This all-new sequel reunites the cast together again for a reunion packed with plenty of laughter, love, and surprises. The returning ensemble cast includes Morris Chestnut (“Identity Thief”), Terrence Howard (“Hustle & Flow”), Taye Diggs (“Baggage Claim”), Nia Long (“Soul Food”), Sanaa Lathan (“Contagion”), Regina Hall (“Scary Movie franchise”), Harold Perrineau (“Zero Dark Thirty”), Monica Calhoun (“Love & Basketball”) and Melissa De Sousa (“Miss Congeniality”). If you enjoyed the first film, you are going to love this film. I do know why they waited so long to come out with this but I am sure that they are not going to make that mistake again. I am sure that “The Best Man 3” is right around the corner.

Official Premise: Share the laughter, love and surprises as Harper (Taye Diggs), Lance (Morris Chestnut), Quentin (Terrence Howard), Jordan (Nia Long), Robyn (Sanaa Lathan), Mia (Monica Calhoun), Murch (Harold Perrineau), Candy (Regina Hall) and Shelby (Melissa De Sousa) all reunite for the first time in years. As they share their triumphs and tragedies, these college friends soon discover how easy it is to reignite long-forgotten rivalries and romances—all while new discoveries are made and secrets are revealed.

Universal delivers “The Best Man Holiday” as a Blu-ray Combo Pack including a Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD with UltraViolet. The 1080p transfer is very polished and really captures the holiday spirit…even in February. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works well with the films music, which sounds great. In terms of special features, there is an Alternate Ending, Gag Reel as well as some Deleted and Extended Scenes with Commentary by Writer/Director/Producer Malcolm D. Lee. There is also a audio commentary track with Malcolm D. Lee. “Smack Talk” looks at the filming of the girl fight scene. Lastly we have “Holiday Reunion: The Making of The Best Man Holiday” which goes behind-the-scenes with cast and crew.

Starring: Phil Harris, Sebastian Cabot, Louis Prima, George Sanders, Bruce Reitherman, J. Pat O’Malley
Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 78 minutes

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

“The Jungle Book” is a Disney classic and packs some of the best and most fun jazzy, toe-tapping songs, including “I Wan’na Be Like You” and Academy Award-nominated classic “The Bare Necessities”. My 20-month old daughter has been watching the commercials of this Blu-ray and has already been dancing to the music. This is the first time that this film has ever been released on Blu-ray and also the first in almost seven years that it has been released from the Disney vault. “The Jungle Book” was Disney’s 19th animated masterpiece and also the last animated feature to have Walt Disney’s personal touch. Already watched this twice with my daughter, I have a feeling we are going to get a lot of use out of this.

Official Premise: Meet the most unforgettable characters and embark on a thrilling adventure with Mowgli as he journeys deep into the jungle and learns The Bare Necessities of life from happy-go-lucky Baloo the bear. Meet Bagheera, the wise old panther, and crazy King Louie, the orangutan. But watch out for the cunning tiger Shere Khan and Kaa, the ssssneakiest snake in the jungle! Explore your family’s wild side as you venture into The Jungle Book for extraordinary adventures and a heartwarming tale that celebrates the true meaning of friendship.

Disney released “The Jungle Book” under it’s Diamond Edition banner. It comes in a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy included. The 1080p transfer is absolutely fantastic. I remember watching this film on VHS as a kid and now as a adult, I was literally blown away by this presentation. My daughter was literally glued to the TV and just kept pointing at all the characters and naming them. There are two options for this film in terms of audio. There is a super impressive, brand new DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. It is fantastic and really works well with the music. It also comes with the original theatrical Dolby Digital Mono track as well for audio purists.

There is some great new special features created for this Blu-ray. There is a brief intro by composer Richard Sherman, which is option way to start the film. There is an 18-minute promo featurette for Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. There is an alternate ending included “Mowgli and The Hunter”, which is presented in storyboard format. There is also a fantastic 40-minute documentary “Growing up With Nine Old Men”, which includes a series of interviews looking into chief animators. The rest of the remaining extras have all been ported over from previous DVD editions.

There is a very interesting audio commentary track with the voice of Mowgli, Bruce Reitherman, Composer Richard Sherman and interview footage edited in from members of the original production team. There is also a five-part “Making of”, which runs just over 45 minutes. Rounding out the rest of the extras include four additional featurettes, a wildlife video for kids, seven deleted songs, sing-along lyrics and music video from Jonas Brothers. Of course, be sure to also pause the film when watching to take advantage of “Disney Intermission”, which is hosted by Baloo.