Starring: Sean Schemmel, Stephanie Nadolny, Christopher Sabat, Daisuke Gōri, Mayumi Tanaka, Kenji Utsumi
Director: Daisuke Nishio
Number of discs: 4
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: December 31, 2013
Run Time: 925 minutes

Season: 5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

Funimation Entertaiment has been pushing “Dragon Ball Z” series for quite some time. Last year, they completed releasing “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, which is the new restructure version of this show but they never have completed released the original “Dragon Ball Z” series on Blu-ray to date. They started back in late November 2011 with “Dragon Ball Z: Level 1.1” and “Dragon Ball Z: Level 1.2”, which got us to episode 34 out of 291 but future releases were cancelled and series was never completed. So that has left fans quite up in arms about this show but it looks like this release starts us back in the right track since we are already through the first season including 39 episodes. So hopefully they complete what they started this time. Dragonball Z: Season 2 Blu-ray is already slated to street on Feb 18, 2014, so I expected them to fly through season 9 by early 2015 at the latest.

Official Premise: The Saiyans, the last survivors of a cruel, warrior race, have carved a path of destruction across the galaxy. Now they have set their sights on Earth and will stop at nothing to obtain the wish-granting powers of the seven magic Dragon Balls for their very own. With the fate of his family, friends, and the entire human race hanging in the balance, Goku, the Earths greatest hero, must rise to meet the approaching threat. As he prepares for the fight of his life, Goku embarks on n epic journey that will take him to other worlds, pit him against new and old enemies alike, and force him to confront the dark secrets of his own past. At the end of this path, the most powerful opponent he has ever faced awaits: the evil Saiyan prince, Vegeta.

Funimation has really delivered quite an impressive Blu-ray presentation with this season by working a frame-by-frame restoration process to remove any blemishes, tape marks, and foreign bodies. The series has also been reframed and presented with an 1.78:1 aspect ratio and it looks great seeing this show with its new HD widescreen presentation. Colors are extremely sharp and the line detail is crisp. There are three audio tracks included, which also have been re-mastered and have never sounded better. The English dub comes with an Dolby TrueHD 5.1 with the original Japanese music. The original English language broadcast version with the broadcast version music is presented with an Dolby TrueHD 2.0 track. Lastly the original Japanese track with the Japanese music, of course is delivered with a Dolby TrueHD Mono track.

In terms of special features, there is nothing here to get excited over since there is nothing here. I would have loved to seen a featurette on focusing on the restoration process for this series or a new commentary track from the voice cast even on just a single episode. What we get instead is an Upcoming Special Feature Sneak Peek included. There are also the Textless Opening Song and Textless Closing Song included, as well as the U.S. Trailer. One feature that I did really liked, not really special feature but still very cool, is the “Marathon Feature”. This allows you to view the episodes continuously without the credits each episode. This really adds a lot and makes it very easy to enjoy a great binge viewing experience of this amazing series.

Starring: Hugo Stiglitz, Mel Ferrer, Laura Trotter, Francisco Rabal, Maria Rosaria Omaggio, Sonia Viviani
Director: Umberto Lenzi
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Raro Video USA Ltd.
Release Date: December 31, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

I remember seeing the video tape box for “Nightmare City” at the mom and pop video store Royal Video in Long Island, NY back in the early 90’s and just knew that I had to see this film. I was obsessed with Italian horror growing up. Umberto Lenzi is the genius behind great Italian horror films including “Cannibal Ferox”. What always struck me as odd is that this film is billed as a zombie film but even Lenzi himself denies that this is about zombies. I have to admit, the film itself isn’t as impressive as it was when I was a kid but Rare Video did quite a beautiful job on this Blu-ray. So if you are a fan of this film, this Blu-ray is a must own for sure.

Official Premise: Umberto Lenzi’s zombie shocker Nightmare City stars actor Hugo Stiglitz as a reporter caught in a living, breathing zombie hell. When an airplane comes into contact with radiation from a nuclear disaster it causes the passengers to mutate into scabby-faced humanoids with a compulsion to kill and drink the blood of their victims. As the zombies move into the city and beyond, will anyone or anything be able to stop the wave of bloody death and disease that threatens to decimate mankind?

Rare Video really did this film a solid and gave it a very impressive new high-definition transfer which was taken from the original 35mm negative. For a film that is over 30 years old, it looks quite stunning. Some of the gore looks aged especially the “zombie” make-up but overall, this film has never looked better. The LPCM 2.0 audio track is also a thing of beauty backed with a new and improved English subtitle translation. I was transported back to my childhood with this film’s amazing Goblin-like score, which is just so great and sounds amazing here.

In terms of special features, there is not a whole lot but quality represents over quantity. There is a nearly hour long intensive interview with Umberto Lenzi discussing the film and its legacy. There is the original English trailer, as well as the original Italian trailer. I was very impressed to find a fully illustrated booklet including inside the case, which focuses on the genesis and production of the film. It is written by Chris Alexander, who writes for Fangoria Magazine. I was surprised to see a few typos included in it though but overall, it is a great additional this great release.

Starring: Leslie Bibb, Rob Corddry, Riki Lindhome, Keegan Michael Key, Robert Ben Garant, Thomas Lennon
Directors: Robert Ben Garant, Thomas Lennon
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Millennium
Release Date: December 31, 2013
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

Back in 1993, there was a show on MTV called “The State” which changed my life. This sketch comedy show was (and is still) so funny and it spawned great talent like Robert Ben Garant and Thomas Lennon, also the creators of “Reno 911!” and writers of ”Night at The Museum”. There is also no shortage of talent along with the duo including Rob Corddry, Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel, even Michael Ian Black, who started with “The State” pops in for a nice cameo. “Hell Baby” is a horror/comedy spoof and has it fair share of problems but overall is quite entertaining. Overall, if you are a fan of these actors, I would recommend checking out for a few fun scares and a few decent laughs.

Official Premise: Jack (Rob Corddry) and Vanessa (Leslie Bibb) are an expectant couple that moves into the most haunted fixer-upper in New Orleans — a house with a deadly demonic curse. Things soon spiral out of control for Jack and Vanessa, as well as their-not-so-helpful neighbor F’Resnel (Keegan-Michael Key), Vanessa’s friendly psychiatrist (Michael Ian Black), Vanessa’s Wiccan sister Marjorie (Riki Lindhome) and the detectives assigned to look into the rising body count (Rob Huebel and Paul Scheer). Only the Vatican’s elite exorcism team (Garant and Lennon) san save them — or can they?

In terms of Blu-ray presentation, there is nothing extra special about the 1080p transfer but does look impressive nonetheless. Same goes for the Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track, which delivers the few funscare jumps very well and the dialogue clearly. In terms of special features, there is nothing special here either besides nine deleted scenes and two gag reels. With all this talent involved, I would have loved to see a commentary track which could have really given this film a reason to watch again.

Actors: Greg Grunberg, Lombardo Boyar, Ray Wise
Directors: Mike Mendez
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Epic Pictures
Release Date: January 7, 2014
Run Time: 85 minutes

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

When you hear the title “Big Ass Spider!”, you would probably think that this film was just another Syfy original movie but you would be wrong. This film is definitely a low-budget creature feature but it packs some solid production values. This comes quite polished and packed with great CG creature effects, solid action and also funny as hell. If you are looking for a fun and exciting ride, I would recommend checking this film out. Can’t wait for the sequel!

Official Premise: “An exterminator (Greg Grunberg) and his Hispanic sidekick (Lombardo Boyar) are caught in an epic battle when a military assault fails to contain a giant alien spider rampaging through the city of Los Angeles”. Epic right? But seriously do you really need to read what this film is about with a title like “Big Ass Spider!”, I mean come on, the title sells itself.

“Big Ass Spider!” comes with a solid cast including Greg Grunberg (TV’s “Heroes”), Lombardo Boyar (“Happy Feet I and II”) and Ray Wise (“X-Men: First Class”, TV’s “Twin Peaks”). Greg really nails this role, he is funny and he knows this film is a stretch but really has a blast with it.  Lombardo Boyar is over=the-top and a laugh riot. Ray Wise is Ray Wise and steals the show (as always). The film is directed by Mike Mendez, who is best know for his 2006 horror feature, “The Gravedancers”. I can’t wait to see what he follows up this film with.

“Big Ass Spider!” really does shine on Blu-ray with its solid 1.78:1 aspect ratio presentation. The production value really stands up and looks solid and the visual effects look very impressive. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track also packs a nice punch. The dialogue is sharp and action is well represented. The only thing that I would have loved to seen with this release was a combo pack release with a digital copy.

In terms of special features, I was a bit let down. I would have loved to see the focus on the visual effects. We do get a solid commentary track with stars Greg Grunberg, Lombardo Boyar, and director Mike Mendez. You can tell that these guys had a blast with this film and this is a really fun track. The only other featurette is the “‘Big Ass Spider! Premiere'”, which takes us to South by Southwest Film Festival. Lastly, there is a very short collection of “Interviews” from cast/crew as well as a theatrical trailer, international trailer and TV spot included.

Starring: Willie Robertson, Jase Robertson, Kay Robertson, Phil Robertson
Studio: Lionsgate
DVD Release Date: January 7, 2014
Run Time: 241 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

The tagline on the box says its all “It’s a Duck Nation”.  Duck Dynasty is one of the biggest TV shows on right now and only continues to get more popular. This season premiere got nearly 12 million viewers, which is the highest-rated reality series broadcast in cable history. Can you believe it? Where you are a fan of this show or not, there is no way to escape this show as it is everywhere you look. “Duck Dynasty” is easily the hottest reality show since “The Osbournes”. The fourth season is also no question, the best season so far. This season will leave you “Happy Happy Happy” while you get ready for the kick-off of Season 5, which debuts on January 15th.

Official Premise: The Robertsons are back and they’ve never had so much Southern charm. It’s a family affair as everyone comes together to throw a surprise wedding party for Phil and Kay. And when the guys and their wives realize Martin is forgoing poker for a date, they all take turns coaching him in romance. Meanwhile, Phil tries to teach his granddaughters how to fish, but the girls outsmart him and have him doing all the work. Later, he and Kay teach Sadie and John Luke how to make May Haw jelly. And as always, the guys’ antics continue as they attempt to make duck jerky, and a series of “gentlemen’s bets” leads them to the ultimate challenge of helping Phil get a wheelbarrow down from a tree.

Here are the episodes from Season 4: “Till Duck Do Us Part”, “So You Think You Can Date?”, “Hot Tub Grime Machine”, “A-Jase-ent Living”, “Termite Be a Problem”, “John Luke After Dentist”, “Scoot Along Si”, “Jerky Boys”, “Going Si-ral” and the Halloween episode “Quack O’Lanterns”. What doesn’t make it on the disc is the recent Christmas episode, which aired on December 11th, “O Little Town of West Monroe”.

In terms of Blu-ray presentation, this is one of those shows that don’t really benefit too much from a Blu-ray release. It looks sharp with its 1080p transfers but nothing going to blow you away. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, which has been the same for the last three seasons as well. In terms of special features there isn’t a whole lot to call the ducks over. There is about 20 minutes of Never-Before-Seen-On-TV footage, which is cool but again its only 20 minutes. They consist of six deleted scenes and five webisodes. I would have expected more from this highly successful season. Still for the price, it is worth picking up if you love the show.

Starring: Scott Bakula, John Billingsley, Jolene Blalock, Dominic Keating, Anthony Montgomery, Linda Park
Number of discs: 6
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: January 7, 2014
Run Time: 1025 minutes

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

The third season was a big season for this show. It saw the series change its name from “Enterprise” to “Star Trek: Enterprise” and also got a new main title theme, which is quite a big deal especially for a “Star Trek” series. The third season was also the turning point for this show as it delivered one of the best seasons. One thing that I liked and I am sure all fans did was that it was centered around one single story arc surrounding the Xindi attack on Earth. I think that this season sealed the deal for fans of the show but unfortunately it was also the season to last. A must own for any “Enterprise” fan!

Official Premise: After a surprise attack on Earth leaves over seven million people dead, Captain Jonathan Archer (Bakula) and the crew of the Enterprise swear to find those responsible – the Xindi. Taking off into the uncharted region known as the Delphic Expanse, the crew of the Enterprise must hunt down the Xindi and stop them from enacting their ultimate plan: the total destruction of humanity. Along the way they travel to the year 2004 to prevent a bioweapon attack, fend off the mysterious Sphere-Builders, and even meet their own descendants due to a wormhole mishap, all leading up to a desperate race back to Earth to prevent its destruction.

Here are the episodes that are included in Season Three: “The Xindi”, “Anomaly”, “Extinction”, “Rajiin”, “Impulse”, “Exile”, “The Shipment”, “Twilight”, “North Star”, “Similitude”, “Carpenter Street”, “Chosen Realm”, “Proving Ground”, “Stratagem”, “Harbinger”, “Doctor’s Orders”, “Hatchery”, “Azati Prime”, “Damage”, “The Forgotten”, “E2”, “The Council”, “Countdown” and “Zero Hour”

CBS Home Entertainment and Paramount Pictures have been giving this show better and better releases since the first season. Not only with “Enterprise” as well but also they have delivered impressive releases for the “Star Trek” franchise included the “Star Trek: The Next Generation” seasons. Season Three of “Star Trek: Enterprise” is easily this show’s best collection of 1080p high definition transfers. It is also backed with some impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround tracks as well.

In terms of special features, Season Three delivers the goods for sure. There are tons of great commentary tracks included. There are three Text Commentary with Mike &a Denise Okuda on the following episodes; “The Xindi”, “Impulse” and “Countdown”. There are three episode commentary tracks including Manny Coto on “Similitude”, Mike Sussman and Tim Gaskill on “Twilight” and then Mike DeMeritt on “North Star”. If that isn’t enough there are five brand new commentary tracks included. The first is with David A. Goodman and Chris Black on “North Star”; Manny Coto and Connor Trinneer on “Similitude”; David A. Goodman, Chris Black and Connor Trinneer on “The Forgotten”; Chris Black and André Bormanis on Countdown and lastly David Livingston and David A. Goodman on “Impulse”.

Some other new features include a multi-part documentary, “In a Time of War”, which is a great behind-the-scenes look on the third season. There is also another new featurette called “Temporal Cold War: Declassified”, which talks about an arc which was never explored. There are deleted scenes from three episodes, “Similitude”, “Chosen Realm” and “E2”. There are Archival Mission Logs for “The Xindi Saga Begins”, “Enterprise Moments: Season Three”, “Enterprise Profile: Connor Trinneer”, “A Day in the Life of a Director: Roxanne Dawson”, “Behind the Camera: Marvin Rush” and , “Enterprise Secrets (SD)” Lastly, there are outtakes and photo gallery included.

Starring: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, Ty Simpkins, Barbara Hershey
Directed by: James Wan
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 24, 2013
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

Let’s start off with the fact that “Insidious” is one of my favorite horror films, period. So I was very disappointed when I saw that “Insidious: Chapter 2” took the lazy typical horror film approach and didn’t stick with what made the first film so unique…and scary. The main goal of this film is to scare and it missing that mark complete. The first one still scares me even after seen it 15 times. This might scary a young teenager but it completely missing the mark. They tried to cram way too much in this film and focused too much on the ghosts’ back story that they became no longer a treat. There was also so many missed scared opportunities that could have really beefed up the terror. I hope they learn from their mistakes with the third (inevitable) film in this series coming out 2015. Less is more!

Official Premise: James Wan directs this supernatural suspense horror sequel. Picking up from where the last film left off, the Lamberts (Wilson and Byrne) have moved into a new home with their son Dalton (Ty Simpkins) and initially things are going well, but as the time passes it is revealed to them that whatever force was haunting them before still isn’t finished with them. They are then tasked with uncovering what it is that ties them to the spirit world while desperately trying to hold on to their sanity.

Sony is behind this Blu-ray release and they deliver us with a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD Ultraviolet copy. The 1080p transfer is polished and does look impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track scores with Joseph Bishara’s score, which is easily the best thing in the film. In terms of special features, the extras are a hit. “Peripheral Vision: Behind the Scenes” is a typical making-of featurette. “Ghostly Transformation” looks into the make-up effects. “Haunted Hospital: On Location” focuses on where the film was shot. “Leigh Whannell’s Insidious Journal” is a making of featurette with the writer/actor. “Work in Progress: On Set Q&A” includes chat with Barbara Hershey, Patrick Wilson, Jason Blum, James Wan, and Leigh Whannell. Lastly “Insidious: Spectral Sightings” is a third part series of webisodes for the film.

Starring: Jeremy Shada, John DiMaggio, Hynden Walch, Niki Yang, Tom Kenny
Created by: Pendleton Ward
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Cartoon Network
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 176 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Adventure Time” is no question of my best…and also most bizarre shows on TV animated or not. When I first saw it a few years ago, I literally couldn’t get enough of it. The show is currently in its fifth season and it only keeps getting better and better…and also weirder and weirder but that is part of its charm. “Jake the Dad” is fifth and latest volume DVD release after “Jake vs. Me-Mow”. I loved this episode where Jake becomes a dad with Lady Rainicorn but that is not all since there are an additional 16 episodes included as well. The real draw for this release though has to be the Jake hat that comes with this DVD. In fact, since I received this my 18-month old daughter has refused to take it off. So I would call this a must own for an fan of “Adventure Time”.

This release includes sixteen episodes from the shows fourth and fifth seasons including: “Jake the Dad”, “Burning Low”, “Gotcha!”, “Sons of Mars”, “BMO Noire”, “The Hard Easy”, “I Remember You”, “All the Little People”, “Mystery Dungeon”, “All Your Fault”, “Five More Short Graybles”, “Vault of Bones”, “Simon & Marcy”, “Puhoy”, “One Last Job” and “BMO Lost”. Currently only the first and second seasons are available complete on Blu-ray with the third coming on February 25, 2014. So this DVD is a great way to own some of the best episodes from this show now and not have to wait for the complete seasons. If the Jake hat alone was a bonus enough for you there is also a character feature called “Little Did You Know”, which is a nice bonus extra if you are a fan of the show.  Can’t wait to see what Cartoon Network has planned next for this show cause I can’t get enough.

Actors: Logan Lerman, Alexandra Daddario, Brandon T. Jackson, Nathan Fillion, Douglas Smith
Directors: Thor Freudenthal
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: December 17, 2013
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

“Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” arrived as the next “Harry Potter” but never really gathered much interest. When I heard that they were come with a sequel, I didn’t understand since the first film was not well-received. “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters” promised to be much better than the first and it did deliver a more entertaining film for sure. The action is amped up and the visual effects are much better than the first film, plus it co-stars Nathan Fillion which is always great. Still has it problems and feel like a “Harry Potter wanna-be but overall, this film is worth checking out and a vast improvement from “The Lightning Thief”.

Official Premise: The magical, mythical adventures of teenager Percy Jackson — son of the Greek god Poseidon — continue in this heroic, action-packed thrill ride! Out to prove he’s not just a “one-quest wonder,” Percy and his demigod friends embark on an epic, cross-country journey into the treacherous Sea of Monsters, where they battle terrifying creatures, an army of zombies, and the ultimate evil. With time running out, Percy must find and bring home the fabled Golden Fleece, which has the power to save his world…and save us all

Fox delivered “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters” as a combo pack release including Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD digital copy. The 1080p transfer is pretty much flawless and really takes advantage of the CGI effects and amazing visuals. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 is also perfect and really captures the action so well. If you get nothing else from this film and this Blu-ray, you will be blown away with the audio/video presentation. If possible though, this film is much more enjoyable in 3D, so if you have that option but sure to take that route since the visual effects really shines there.

In terms of special features, “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters” delivers some decent extras but nothing outstanding. To start we get a motion comic for the character Tyson, who is Percy’s cyclops half-brother. There are three featurettes included, the first is called “Back to Camp Half-Blood”, which features cast taking about coming back for the sequel. “It’s All in the Eye” and “Deconstructing a Demigod” focus on the visual effects in the film. I was really hoping for more depth on these extras since the film is so visual but these are still worth checking out if you enjoyed the film.

Starring: Robert De Niro, Tommy Lee Jones, Michelle Pfeiffer, Dianna Agron, Dominic Chianese, David Belle
Director: Luc Besson
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: December 17, 2013
Run Time: 111 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to action films, Luc Besson is a name that I trust. He delivered some great genre films over the years.  “The Family” is a different type of film for Besson because it is a mix of comedy/crime, there is some a nice mix of action in it though. The film does pack a solid cast including Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer and Tommy Lee Jones. There are a few clever parts in here and Pfeiffer is as beautiful as ever but overall, I wasn’t blown away. Worth taking a look for the cast but this is quite forgettable.

Official Premise: A Mafia boss and his family are relocated to a sleepy town in France under the Witness Protection Program after snitching on the mob. Despite Agent Stansfield’s (Jones) best efforts to keep them in line, Fred Blake (Robert De Niro), his wife Maggie (Michelle Pfeiffer), and their children Belle (Dianna Agron) and Warren (John D’Leo), can’t help resorting to old habits by handling their problems the ‘family’ way. Chaos ensues as their former Mafia cronies try to track them down, and scores are settled in the unlikeliest of settings.

As always Fox delivered an impressive release delivering this releases as a combo pack including Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD digital copy. What Luc Besson knows well is how to make a film look good. For the film’s action, the 1080p transfer works well. It showcases the filming locations well, as it does with the action and the same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which is very sharp. In terms of special features, we go right back to be being disappointed. There is a short behind-the-scenes looks with “Making The Family”. The only other extra is “The Many Meanings of FU*%!”, which is sort but still fun.

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Actors: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, Alice Braga, Diego Luna
Directors: Neill Blomkamp
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: December 17, 2013
Run Time: 109 minutes

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

“Elysium” is the latest film from writer-director Neill Blomkamp, who brought us “District 9”. This film has a similar feel to it and even reunites the director with Sharlto Copley but doesn’t have the same magic. The film has quite the political back drop and I felt that it took over a little too much in the story and hurt “Elysium” quite a bit. The film is still visually impressive and Damon kicks some ass and really commits to this role. Worth checking out for sci-fi junkies but nothing special.

Official Premise: In the year 2159 two classes of people exist: the very wealthy who live on a pristine man-made space station called Elysium, and the rest, who live on an overpopulated, ruined Earth. Secretary Rhodes, a government official, will stop at nothing to enforce anti-immigration laws and preserve the luxurious lifestyle of the citizens of Elysium. That doesn’t stop the people of Earth from trying to get in, by any means they can. When unlucky Max is backed into a corner, he agrees to take on a daunting mission that if successful will not only save his life, but could bring equality to these polarized worlds.

When I think of this film I do not think about watching it on DVD, I think about a nice high-def crisp Blu-ray to fully take advantage of the very visual aspect of the film. So I was let down there for sure. If you are looking for special features, the back of the DVD box says get the Blu-ray. There are only two extra includes on this DVD. The first is called “Engineering Utopia: Creating a Society in the Sky”, which focuses on the visual effects. The next (and last) is called Collaboration: Crafting the Performances in Elysium” take a look into the cast from the film.

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Disney Minnie
Board book: 10 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: October 1, 2013

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

When I saw that Disney Press was releasing a puppet book with Minnie, I knew my 18 month old daughter was going to flip out. I have to say thought I was very underwhelmed. When I showed this book to my daughter she turned the pages one and then lost interest. One thing I realized is that the puppet is so big that turning the pages makes it very hard as well. If your kid loves Minnie, this is probably good for a quick distraction but I do not see my daughter picking this book up ever again.

With Minnie Mouse, it’s all about the bows. So it’s no surprise that she’s put a new spin on the classic game of peekaboo. In this engaging interactive puppet book, Minnie plays peek-a-bow, creating a perfect interactive story little ones will want to read again and again. An adorable fabric Minnie puppet, a delightfully illustrated story, and the fun game of peekaboo come together to make this book a must-have!

This book is also consists of four double sided pages, the colors are crisp and animation is cute but over it didn’t draw me in. There is another book that my daughter has loved since she was born and still does with a peek-a-boo shark. It has always been her favorite and I was hoping to replace it with this one but that plan failed miserably. Who knows maybe other might enough, but I would be caution when purchasing.

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Starring: Matt Smith, David Tennant, Jenna-Louise Colemanm, Billie Piper, John Hurt
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: December 10, 2013
Run Time: 75 minutes

Special: 5 out of 5 stars
3D: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Just when you think that BBC’s “Doctor Who” cannot simple get any better, we get “The Day of the Doctor”, which is series’ 50th Anniversary special. The 75-minute 3D special stars Matt Smith, David Tennant and John Hurt as various regenerations of the Doctor. It also brings back Billie Piper and another surprise guest from the “Doctor Who” history. This special is honestly not just a special it is a feature film. It is so well done and epic that it deserves to be treated like a theatrical feature, it fact it was actually in theaters, in 3D, broadcasted live at the same time the show aired on TV worldwide. Matt Smith has been such an amazing Doctor with his last episode around the corner this month with “The Time of the Doctor”. Tennant came back for the first time since season 4 and it felt like honestly he never left, so amazing. John Hurt was also such a blast playing the Doctor as well. I would be lying if I didn’t say that I literally cheered and also laughed out loud nervous time throughout.

Official Premise: Written by lead writer and executive producer Steven Moffat, Doctor Who: The Day of The Doctor sees the Doctors (Matt Smith and David Tennant) embark on their greatest adventure across space and time. In 2013, something terrible is awakening in London’s National Gallery; in 1562, a murderous plot is afoot in Elizabethan England; and somewhere in space an ancient battle reaches its devastating conclusion. All of reality is at stake as the Doctor’s own dangerous past comes back to haunt him. The special also stars Jenna Coleman (as Clara, the Doctor’s current Companion), Billie Piper (in a surprise role) and Jemma Redgrave as Kate Stewart, daughter of legendary Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart.

This 50th Anniversary Special was given the real treatment from BBC with this release. It comes in a solid combo pack with Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD, that’s right the Doctor is in 3D for the first time. I have to admit, this was a really strong fit for the show. The first time we zoomed in the painting and it went 3D, I literally said “Wow” out loud.  I thought it was very well done and added a lot of character to this special. The 1080p transfer overall was very impressive and like I said the show feel like a movie, so everything is amped up. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track also works very well with the action and scale of the film.

In terms of special features, there is some decent content here. But to me the real draw of this Blu-ray has to be the 3D Blu-ray, no question.  There is a “Behind-the-Scenes Featurette”, which takes us on set and on location with interviews with Matt Smith, Jenna Coleman, David Tennant, Billie Piper, John Hurt and of course Steven Moffat. In “Doctor Who Explained”, we get the entire 50-year history in one 50-minute special. There are two mini-episodes including “The Night of The Doctor” and “The Last Day”. Lastly there are a trailer for San Diego Comic-Con and the tribute teaser for the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary. I am curious if this special is going to be intergrated into future season releases and if so if they are planning to keep the 3D aspect, either way this would make a great holiday gift and a must watch and own for any Doctor Who fan!

Starring: Steve Whitmire, Frank Oz, Dave Goelz, Jerry Nelson, Tim Curry, Jim Henson
Directors: Brian Henson, Jim Henson
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: December 10, 2013
Run Time: 147 minutes

Muppet Treasure Island: 3 out of 5 stars
The Great Muppet Caper: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Since Disney took over “The Muppets”, they have been doing great things for this group of puppets. “The Great Muppet Caper” (1981) and “Muppet Treasure Island” (1996) are making their Blu-ray debut this holiday season on a 2-Movie BD/DVD Collection. “The Great Muppet Caper” is the second Muppet film and one of my favorites growing up. Still fun to watch after all these years. Muppet Treasure Island” is a fun musical version of the classic tale from Robert Louis Stevenson. It isn’t perfect but who doesn’t love Tim Curry singing? So this collection is a must for any Muppet fan. In fact, these two were the last Muppet films not released on Blu-ray, so I am wondering if Disney will be reissuing “The Muppets Take Manhattan” and “Muppets from Space” next under the their label both of which were releasing on Blu-ray by Sony back in 2011. Either way fans have plenty more to come with the eighth film, “Muppets Most Wanted”, which will be released on March 21, 2014.

Official Synopsis: A treasure trove of hearty laughs is yours when two of the funniest, most action-packed Muppet movies of all time make their Disney Blu-ray debut in this heartwarming 2-Movie Collection. From the special star-studded lunacy in Muppet Treasure Island to the jewel-heist hilarity of The Great Muppet Caper, these two classic comedy-adventures are packed with music, mirth, mayhem and, of course, Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, Fozzie, Gonzo and all your Muppet favorites. Loaded with unforgettable music and sparkling special effects, this restored and remastered collection is a 2-movie treasure you won’t want to miss.

Disney has done a wonderful job of delivering this film to Blu-ray with stellar 1080p transfers. Even though “The Great Muppet Caper” is over 30 years it still looks quite amazing. Same goes wiht the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround tracks, which work very well with the music in the films. In terms of special features, this release include a few decent features. There are three “Frog-e-oke Sign-Alongs” for the songs “Cabin Fever” from “Muppet Treasure Island” and from “The Great Muppet Caper” their is “Steppin’ Out With A Star” and “Happiness Hotel”. “The Tale of The Story Beyond the Tail” is a fun behind the scenes look with the Muppets on the making of “Muppet Treasure Island”. There is a fun music video “Let the Good Shine Out”. Lastly there is a super funny and very interesting audio commentary track with Gonzo, Rizzo and Brian Henson.

Actors: Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia, John Heard, Jared Rushton
Directors: Penny Marshall
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: December 10, 2013
Run Time: 104 / 130 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Big” is such a classic piece of film and it also was a real turning point for Tom Hanks as an actor. The film is so sweet, fun and still holds up today. In fact, this film is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. This is just one of those films that you can’t turn off if you come across it. I also feel like it is generational and works with various age groups. Plus growing up in NY, this film used to make to love visiting the FAO Schwarz store every Christmas and jumping on that big piano. If you enjoy this film and do not own it yet on Blu-ray, now is the time to pick it up.

Official Premise: Two-time Oscar Winner Tom Hanks received his first Best Actor Nomination for his disarming turn as a 12-year-old man-child in Penny Marshall’s timeless, hilarious delight. Tired of being a kid, Josh Baskin wishes he was big. When he wakes up the next day, he’s an adult! Now, Josh must hold down a job – and please a new boss (Loggia). Tougher still, he must convince his best friend that he’s still himself, and explain to a beautiful woman (Perkins) who falls for him, that he’s not. Soon, Josh just wants to be a kid again, but can he?

This 25th Anniversary Edition comes from Fox as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD. This new release includes a two cuts of the film, the theatrical 104 minute cut and the 130 minute extended cut. Who doesn’t love the theatrical cut but I enjoyed the extended cut quite a bit as well. “Big” looks quite impressive with its 1080p high-def transfer. It is quite crisp and the overall good for a 1980’s comedy. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track also sounds great, especially with the score and music throughout.

In terms of special features, they are good but nothing really special for the 25th anniversary (and nothing new either from previous releases). “Big Brainstorming” is an audio documentary by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg along with Pete Ventrella. “Big’ Beginnings” is featurette with writers Gary Ross, Anne Spielberg and Producer James Brooks discussing how the film came about. “Chemistry of a Classic” features interviews with cast and crew. “The Work of Play” includes interviews with actual people in the toy business. “Hollywood Backstory: ‘Big'” looks into the history of the film. Lastly “Carnival Party Newswrap” is a look into the film’s premiere.

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