Starring: Nicolas Cage, Ryan Reynolds, Emma Stone, Catherine Keener, Cloris Leachman, Clark Duke
Directors: Kirk De Micco, Chris Sanders
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Dreamworks Animation
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 96 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
3D: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When I first saw the trailer for the “The Croods”, I wasn’t must interested in the film. After it was released though it started picking up some steal and grabbed my attention, especially the attention of my 16 month old daughter from the commercials. The film has a fantastic voice cast lead by Nicolas Cage and Ryan Reynolds. I love Nicolas Cage no matter what he does simply and he does a great job with this role. These characters may not be the prettiest creation to come out of Dreamworks but there is a great story here with great visuals. The film is funny, clever and definitely a blast for the whole family. I think it is save to say the Dreamworks Animation did it again! Another hit for sure! DUN DUN DAHHH!

Official Premise: Join the first modern family as they embark on the journey of a lifetime across a spectacular and unforgettable landscape. When their cave is destroyed, everything the Croods have ever known is rocked by seismic shifts and generational clashes as they discover an incredible new world filled with fantastic creatures – and their world is changed forever. If they don’t evolve, they’ll be history!

Like past releases Dreamworks Animation really delivers in terms of quality for their films. This Deluxe Edition included Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Digital Copy. I have to admit the 3D in the film is actually quite awesome! This is a kids film so you have to be expect a few in-your-face gags to entertain them. The colors are gorgeous and the depth is out-of-this world! The 1080p transfer really is sharp overall and works in either format to be honest. The 3D is preferred on my end since I love animated films in 3D. If that isn’t enough for you Dreamworks also packs a solid DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track.  I was very impressed with surround audio since it worked very well with the action and the score.

In terms of special features, I wasn’t really blown away here at all. There is “The Croodaceous Creatures of Croods!”, which gives info about your favorite Croods creatures. “Be An Artist!” gives you the tools to draw Belt, Macawnivore and Mousephant. There is also a downloadable “The Croods Coloring & Storybook Builder App” for smartphone and tablets. This is becoming a trend with after “Epic” as well earlier this year. There is “Belt’s Cave Journal” and “World of DreamWorks Animation”, which is are music videos from your other DreamWorks Animation feature films. I know this is a kids film but I would have loved to seen much more focus on the actual production as well.

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Actors: Felicia Day, Vincent Caso, Jeff Lewis, Amy Okuda, Sandeep Parikh
Directors: Sean Becker, Chris Preksta, Jane Selle Morgan, Greg Benson
Number of discs: 6
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: NEW VIDEO GROUP
DVD Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 506 minutes

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

I will never forget browsing my XBOX marketplace back in 2007 and looking for something to watch, when I came across “The Guild”. Since then I was introduced to the world of web series and Felicia Day. In fact, “The Guild” has really paved the way for many other web series as well. When Day announced that season six would be the last for this show I was bummed but it was really wrapped up very well. The series is so smart, original and very funny. The show also matured very well over the six seasons and got better and better. If you already own seasons 1-5 already then I would recommend just picking up season six individual release but if you have never purchased these then now is the time.  A must for any fan!

Official Premise: Follow the Guildies through six seasons, from pirate-themed burger joint exploits, to a gaming convention road trip, and even INTO the video game! The Guild must stay strong through it all, even as a rival Guild, Axis of Anarchy, headed by their leader, Fawkes (Wil Wheaton), threatens to take them down. Included in this set are all the show’s iconic music videos, behind the scenes for every season, full scripts and more! Highlighting the best of Geek culture, including a slew of recognizable fan favorites (like Simon Helbig, Nathan Fillion and Stan Lee), THE GUILD is one of the most innovative and hilarious web series to date.

What is rare about “The Guild” is that the show feels nothing like web series. The show feels so large and scaled much larger than your typical low-budget web series. Felicia Day, Vincent Caso, Jeff Lewis, Amy Okuda, Robin Thorse and Sandeep Parikh are a great team together. They all work so well together and have this amazing group presence. I also loved that as the series developed each character was expanded and really got time to shine on their own. Great collaboration! Great show! Will be missed. But luckily we have this amazing megaset, which I will be re-watching quite often.

Besides the six seasons of episodes, this megaset is also mega-packed with amazing special features for each season.Season One includes Cast & Crew Interviews; Audition Footage; Gag Reels; Audio Commentaries; Table Read andScript PDF File. Season Two includes Cast & Crew Interviews; Gag Reels; Audio Commentaries; Script PDF File. Season Three includes Tips for Making a Web Video; ”Do You Want to Date My Avatar” Music Video; The Making of “Do You Want to Date My Avatar”; Halloween Video; Guild Applicant Rejects; How to Build Vork’s Sword; Audio Commentary with the Cast; Audio Commentary with the Creator, Director, and Producer; Interviews with the Axis of Anarchy; Gag Reels and Script PDF File.

Season Four includes “Game On” Music Video; The Making of “Game On”; Cheesybeard’s Commercial; Audio Commentary with the Cast, Creator, Director and Producer; Gag Reel; Table Read; Script PDF File. Season Five includes Cast Interviews; “Double Trouble” Featurette; “How to Build A Con” Featurette; Steampunk Verite” Featurette; Audio Commentary with the Cast; Gag Reel;Table Read and Script PDF File. Lastly Season Six includes Commentary track; Production Diary Featurette; Behind the Scenes of The Guild; “I’m the One That’s Cool” Music Video and Gag Reel.

Actors: Milo Ventimiglia, Sarah Shahi, William Mapother, Sara Paxton
Directors: Todd Levin
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Cinedigm
DVD Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
3D: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

When I saw the cover for “Static”. I was immediately interested. Add on top of that a pretty cool tag line guaranteed to draw in “If you hear them coming, you’re already dead”. If that is not enough the film has a killer cast including Milo Ventimiglia (“Heroes”), Sarah Shahi (“The L Word”) and Sara Paxton (“Shark Knight 3D”). Still want more? The film was actually shot in 3D and done very well. “Static” packs some solid suspense and has you biting your nails. Great pic to check out to get ready for the Halloween season!

Official Premise: While coping with the tragic death of their child, a young novelist (Milo Ventimiglia) and his wife (Sarah Shahi) are struggling just to keep their marriage alive. Their broken romance is put to the test when a mysterious girl (Sara Paxton) shows up at their door in the middle of the night claiming masked prowlers are stalking her. The ominous situation turns even darker when the dangerous hooligans show up at their door to wreak havoc. As a game of cat and mouse ensues, the couple must work together to survive and uncover the mystery behind the attack. Soon, past secrets begin to unfold, for better or worse.

What I was impressed with this release was that Cinedigm didn’t cheap out and double up the discs.  They include a 3D Blu-ray, then a standard Blu-ray and then even a DVD copy of the film.  The 1080p transfer works very well with the 3D.  There is some great depth added and no cheap gags. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works well to build the suspense and deliver the dialogue clearly. In terms of special features though, there is only a commentary track with the writer, producer and editor of the film.

Actors: Daniel Usaj, Joe Hartzler, Marc M, Wanda Lust
Directors: Jordan Downey
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: GRAVITAS VENTURES
DVD Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 99 minutes

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

I am a big fan of horror and when I heard about the crazy ass film called “ThanksKilling”, I knew I had to see it. I am sure like most people I found this film on Netflix. When I received an email about “Thankskilling 3”, I immediately emailed back and said “how about “Thankskilling 2?” Then I preceded to read on and I laughed out loud for about an hour. “ThanksKilling 3” is being billed as the first movie ever to skip it’s own sequel! That’s genius right?

Official Premise: “ThanksKilling 3” follows the feathered villain Turkie as he carves through the likes of a rapping grandma, a mindless puppet, a wig-wearing inventor, a bisexual space worm, and their equally ridiculous friends on his quest to recover the last copy of ThanksKilling 2.

I have to admit, this exactely what it sounds like. Stupid, over-the-top and very raunchy but it is a absolute blast to watch! Did I mention that the film also promises “Boobs in the first second!” How many films can do that? It even outdoes the first film which has developed quite the cult following over the year. The film marks return of original creators Jordan Downey and Kevin Stewart and of course follows Turkie, the fowl-mouthed Thanksgiving villain There are also a bunch of new faces including a talking pumpkie pie named Captain Pie Lett.

Downey and Stewart funded and made the film thanks to Kickstarter and were able to raise over $100,000. In fact it is currently the highest funded horror film on Kickstarter. An idea so ridiculous that you simple have to see “Thankskilling 3” for yourself to believe it. It is packed with rauncy humor and tons of very cool puppets. I give the creators mad props since these puppets look sick and they really put a lot of work in order to step up from the first film.

The special features are also impressive for this DVD. There are seven behind-the-scenes featurettes, covering all aspects of the productiom. There are two audio commentaries with creators Jordan Downey and Kevin Stewart. There is an Interactive Drinking Game included as well. There is a fun music video for “Flowis’ Sprinkle of Wrinkle” and a infomercial for “PluckMaster 3000 Infomercial”. Lastly there are trailers & stills galleries included.

Actors: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, Jack Haley
Directors: Victor Fleming
Rated: G / PG
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

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

Perfection! That is what “The Wizard of Oz” is! The film is celebrating its 75th anniversary and it still so relevant and beloved. The twist with this new Blu-ray release is the fact that the film has been converted in 3D. “The Wizard of Oz” is the oldest film to ever be brought into the third dimension. This isn’t no cheap 3D scam either. This 3D conversion a very intense process in which Warner Bros. performed a very high resolution 8k scanning of the original Technicolor camera negative.  So I am sure everyone is wondering “How does “The Wizard of Oz” look in 3D?” Well it is absolutely stunning. The depth is so profound and the colors really pop so well. This is a perfect example of 3D conversion done right and with love!

Official Premise: The magic of M-G-M’s wonderfully colorful and unique fantasy has melted hearts for more than seven decades with its indelible melodies and transcendent themes of family, home and the courage to pursue dreams. To celebrate the beloved movie’s 75th anniversary, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has brought The Wizard of Oz into the present and beyond with a brand new kind of magic: a stunning 3D Blu-ray. Adapted from L. Frank Baum’s timeless children’s tale about a Kansas girl’s journey over the rainbow, The Wizard of Oz starred Judy Garland as Dorothy, Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow; Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion; Jack Haley as the Tin Woodman and Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch.

This is not the film’s first go on Blu-ray, since it was released back in 2009. But it still looks absolutely stunning.  Is this new 8K transfer better than the 2009 transfer? Yes and no. There are certain things about it like the colors that stand out better for me but it isn’t much different. But like I said it is stunning nonetheless. The 2009 Blu-ray was equipped with a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track.  This new release comes with a brand new DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. It still sounds amazing for a film that was made 75 years ago and delivers the lines and songs that we know and love so well. This 75th Anniversary Edition comes with a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + UltraViolet. So there is a little bit for everyone, just in case you don’t own a 3D TV (to be honest this would be a reason to get one for sure).

So you would thing that Warner Bros. did enough with this film converting it to 3D in a painstaking process. They would just released a bare bones Blu-ray right? Wrong!! There is actually more including a brand new and exclusive extra, “The Making of The Wizard of Oz”, which is a 70 minute newly produced, feature-length high definition documentary narrated by Martin Sheen.  Honestly this is a must have for any true fan of the film.  It is extremely extensive and really dives deep into the legacy of the film, it’s production and its affect on Hollywood since.

There is also an audio commentary track with the late Sydney Pollack, which also features noted Oz historian and author John Fricke, as well as rare interview clips with associate producer/writer Arthur Freed’s daughter, Barbara Freed-Saltzman; actress Margaret Hamilton (the Wicked Witch of the West) and her son Hamilton Meserve; actor Ray Bolger (the Scarecrow); actor Jack Haley (the Tin Man); John and Jane Lahr (children of actor Bert Lahr, the Cowardly Lion himself); uncredited co-director Mervyn LeRoy; assistant choreographer Dona Massin (who worked directly under Bobby Connolly); assistant make-up artist William Tuttle; performer Buddy Ebsen; and one of the last surviving Munchkin actors, Jerry Maren. For those who have never heard it, it is a must listen.

There is a Music and Effects Track only, which is amazing as well I loved isolated tracks and this film just works so well without the dialogue. It is a one-channel Dolby Digital audio track. Speaking of audio track, there is also the Original Mono Track included as well, which will be sure to satisfy those audio purists. Also available is the Dolby Digital track as well which is not a winner in my eyes.  There is also a sing along track as well for the following songs “Over the Rainbow,” “Munchkinland Medley,” “Follow the Yellow Brick Road/You’re Off to See the Wizard,” “If I Only Had a Brain,” “If I Only Had a Heart,” “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” “If I Only Had the Nerve/We’re Off to See the Wizard,” “Optimistic Voices,” “The Merry Old Land of Oz,” and “If I Were King of the Forest.”

The rest of the special features are included on the second disc. “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Storybook” features Angela Lansbury doing a brief read-through of Baum’s work. “We Haven’t Really Met Properly” is biographies (again) narrated by Lansbury, including Frank Morgan (The Wizard), Billie Burke (Glenda the Good Witch), Terry (Toto) and many more. “Jukebox” is a fun collection of original recordings and outtakes from the film, which run about 70 minutes. There are hundreds of stills and production photos included. There is the “Lux Radio Theater Broadcast” from the 1950 Christmas radio broadcast of The Wizard of Oz including Judy Garland. “Good News of 1939 Radio Show” is another a full-length radio broadcast with host Robert Young. Lastly there are extended radio advertisements and trailers included.

Get the Wizard of Oz 75th Anniversary Collector’s Edition on Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, DVD and UltraViolet on October 1st – http://bit.ly/1fA56uJ

Starring: Seth Green, Matthew Senreich, Breckin Meyer, Seth MacFarlane, Mila Kunis, Jena Malone
Director: Chris McKay
Rated: TV-MA
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 220 minutes

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

Since 2005, “Robot Chicken” has consistently been delivering us with amazing pop-culture parodies in stop-motion animation. When this show first aired, I would not at all thought it would have lasted this long. It is getting better and better though over the years. This Adult Swim sketch comedy series from Seth Green and Matthew Senreich has even won an Annie Award and three Emmy Awards. Season six has been one of the best to date. There hasn’t been word of a seventh season but I am sure that it is not far away from being announced since this show still packs a great punch.

Official Premise: Robot Chicken is back for its Sixth Season of hilariously insane, wackadoodle, totally off the wall stop-motion animation! This season’s 20 brand spankin’ new episodes will flash images across your retinas and flood your brains with an overabundance of mind-melting pop culture spoofery that will most likely cause your head to explode and leave a stain on the couch that will never come out (sorry Mom)!

One thing that “Robot Chicken” is known for is amazing guest stars voicing various characters. Throughout the sixth season, there were some amazing guest stars including Elizabeth Banks, Sarah Chalke, Kat Dennings, Sam Elliott, Ben Foster, Whoopi Goldberg, Lucas Grabeel, Megan Hilty, Gillian Jacobs, Zachary Levi, J.B. Smoove, Liev Schreiber, Jon Stewart, Patrick Stewart, Stanley Tucci, Olivia Wilde, and Alex Winter. I just love that this show is able to get such great names and it only makes it more fun trying to pick out who is voicing who while watching.

Like the past seasons for “Robot Chicken”, these episodes are uncut from their original TV airing. The 1080p transfers on these episodes are very impressive. The animation looks great even though it is not meant to be perfect. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track also delivers so well for this series. Also included besides the Blu-ray discs is an HD Digital Ultraviolet copy of the season. I will revisit these episodes quite often via that format, no question.

The special features on this Blu-ray are amazing and worth the purchase of this Blu-ray. There is an extensive episode audio commentaries for each of the 20 episodes.  That’s right there are 20 commentary tracks. Must listen for any fan of the show. There is a great “The Making of Robot Chicken: Season 6” looking into the highlights of these episodes. There are seven amazing featurettes covering all aspects of the season including “They Came to Play”, “Our First Ladies”, “Kirkman on Kirkman”, “My First Time”, “The Dirt on Seth and Matt”, “The Inside Joke” and “Who the F*** is Zeb”.

Those extras would normally be good enough for me and should leave any “Robot Chicken” fan 100% satisifed but wait there is still more. Other great extras include “The Wilson Identity: From People to Puppets”, “The Benefits of Robot Chicken”, “Post-Apolcalyptic Future of Holidays”, “Channel Flips”, “Chicken Nuggets”, Deleted Animatics and Outtakes! Whew! Try saying that in one breath! I really have to commend whoever put this release together because they did it for the fans and really delivered some of the best special features I have ever seen for this show.

Actors: Zooey Deschanel, Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, Hannah Simone, Lamorne Morris
Number of discs: 3
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 545 minutes

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

I wondered how they were going to top the first season of “New Girl” but they managed to make this second season even better.  “New Girl” is easily one of the best comedies on television right now.  It is hip, funny, packs a great cast and some amazing writing. There is perfect balance of comedy and drama as well in this season. Zooey Deschanel, Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield,  Lamorne Morris and Hannah Simone are amazing together.  They each work off each other and it works so well. Season three is already off to a great start and I can’t wait to see what they have planned.

Official Premise: The romantic tension between Jess (Emmy Nominee Zooey Deschanel) and Nick (Jake Johnson) escalates in the hilarious, quirky second season of New Girl – but will they ever hook up? Meanwhile, Schmidt fails to be hip, Winston isn’t “prepared” for a hot date, and Nick faces a death in his dysfunctional family. While Jess does her best to replace Cece on a modeling job and a drunk Elvis impersonator at a funeral, Schmidt and Winston hope to rearrange Cece’s arranged marriage.

Season two packed 25 amazing episodes and featured some guest stars like Jamie Lee Curtis, Rob Reiner and Dennis Farina. I loved that Curtis and Reiner played Jess’ parents, they were really cute together and really added a lot to the season.  Farina also delivered a great role as Nick’s dad, who ended up passing away on the show (and also in real life this year). He is a great actor and was a great addition to the show. I also loved David Walton (TV’s short-lived “Perfect Couples”) as Jess’ doctor boyfriend. He was funny and meshed very well with the rest of the cast. This show is just filled with so many great one-liners, I am waiting for someone to start a website with nothing but quotes from this show.

I wish Fox would give this show the Blu-ray treatment but for now we just have DVD. The special features are pretty solid. We do though get he extended version of the very popular episode, “Virgins”, which is one of my favorite from the season. It is only available on this DVD and is a must see for any fan of the show. Besides that there is a commentary track for the episode “Cooler” and “Full of Schmidt”, which is a fun featurette on my favorite character. Lastly there are some great Deleted Scenes and a hilarious Gag Reel included.

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Starring: Will Payne, Jaime Murray, and Sean Power
Directed by: Eduardo Rodriguez
Rated: Unrated
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

What a waste of time! “Fright Night 2: New Blood” is billed as a direct-to-video sequel to the 2011 remake, yet it is just another remake. I do not understand why they decided to take this route. Of course none of the original cast is back for this mess of a film. Charley, Amy and Evil Ed are placed in a high school program in Romania. Instead of Jerry Dandridge, we get Gerri Dandridge, who is not hard on the eyes I might add, as their female professor. Lastly Peter Vincent is also here except he a reality Ghost Hunters-wanna be paranormal investigator. There is no explanation or reference back to the other film, unless you know from reading this, I was left with a confused face on the entire movie.  Did I mention this is a waste of time?

Official Premise: By day Gerri Dandridge is a sexy professor, but by night she transforms into a real-life vampire with an unquenchable thirst for human blood. So when a group of high school students travel abroad to study in Romania, they find themselves ensnared in Gerri’s chilling web of lust and terror. Charley and “Evil” Ed must stop Gerri from drinking and bathing in the blood of a “new moon virgin,” which just so happens to be Charley’s ex-girlfriend, Amy. They enlist help from Peter Vincent, the vampire hunting host of a reality show called “Fright Night,” to drive a stake through Gerri’s plan and save Amy from a fate far worse than death.

20th Century Fox still delivered a nice release for this terrible film as a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD Ultraviolet combo pack. The film is also delivered unrated but since it was never released, it is just another way to draw in any type of audience. The special features are just as weak as the film is.  There is an audio commentary by director Eduardo Rodriguez and producers Alison Rosenzweig and Michael Gaeta, Besides that there is “Fright Night” Webisodes and “Dracula Revealed” featurette included. Don’t waste your time, waste the 2011 remake instead or of course the original 1985 Tom Holland classic, which is the best. Stop making useless remakes!

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Actors: Jack Hanna, Suzi Hanna, Julie Hanna, Kathaleen Hanna
Directors: Guy Nickerson
Number of discs: 5
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Image/Madacy Entertainment
DVD Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 1320 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I have to thank my mother-in-law for getting me into the world of Jack Hanna.  She is a big fan and has since introduced to his work. Jack visits yearly to SeaWorld in Orlando, FL.  So each year, I have the privilege of watching him work with the animals and even to meet him. He is not only a television personality and conservationist but also an author and lifelong adventurer. I am sure that plenty of kids wanted to be him growing up. This collector’s edition package “The Best of Jack Hanna” includes 30 episodes from “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild” and also 30 episodes from “Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures”  If you are a fan of his work, then this 5-DVD box set is a must own.

Official Premise: “The Best of Jack Hanna” follows America’s most beloved animal adventurer and his family as he spends time with nature’s creatures across the continents, over the years, and through two different TV shows. This collector’s edition package includes 30 episodes from Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild, which has garnered 6 Daytime Emmy Nominations and 3 wins to date, plus 30 episodes from Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures. Each episode provides insight into the protection and conservation of some of our planet’s most precious animals and endangered species. “The Best of Jack Hanna” takes you on an action-packed journey, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for all creatures, great and small.

Jack shows no signs of slow down either as he continues to develop new TV series including “Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown”, which airs on Saturday mornings on ABC affiliates around the country. “Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures” and “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild” are also currently in syndication as well. He has been working for decades to protect and spread the word about wildlife conservation and I am sure that he will continue to spread the word for many more years to come. I hope that Image/Madacy Entertainment is planning to release future releases of Jack Hanna because I would love to have more, specifically his new series. There are no special features on this DVD but there are 60 amazing episodes, so that is good enough for me.

Actors: Vincent Price, Reggie Rymal, Frank Lovejoy, Carolyn Jones, Charles Bronson
Directors: Andre De Toth
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 88 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
3D: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I remember the very first time that I ever saw “House of Wax”, I believe it was also my first introduction to the amazing Vincent Price. That was many many years ago and yet watching the film today, it is still as amazing as it was over 20 years ago. “House of Wax” was released in 1953 and was the first color 3D feature released by a major studio and grossed (in adjusted figures) over $400 million dollars. This film is celebrating it’s 60th anniversary and Warner Bros is releasing it for the first time ever in 3D as it was originally meant to be seen in theaters. Highly recommend for any classic horror and Vincent Price fan.

Official Synopsis: Professor Henry Jarrod (Price) is the owner and figure sculptor in a wax museum whose specialty is historic figures. When he and his business partner, Matthew Burke (Roy Roberts) quarrel over the choice of exhibits displayed, Burke suggests it would be more profitable to burn down the museum in order to obtain the insurance money. As they fight, the museum burns and Jarrod is left for dead. It’s not until much later at a new museum that the fate of Jarrod and the mystery of how the lifelike waxed figures are created becomes gruesomely evident.

The film marked Vincent Price”s first major starring horror role and a real landmark point for his career. It also co-starred a young Charles Bronson (that’s right same guy from “Death Wish”). So this film just wasn’t a typical convert to 3D to cash in release, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Imaging delivered a brand new 4K scan, a full restoration and a perfect 3D image alignment. It really shows and looks quite amazing in 3D for a film celebrating 60 years. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track also works very well. Warner also included as a bonus, the 2D version of the film as well.  This also marks the first time that “House of Wax” is being released on Blu-ray.

The special features are pretty decent. There is all new featurette: “House of Wax: Unlike Anything You’ve Seen Before”, which is a must watch for any fan. I was also really impressed that “Mystery of The Wax Museum”, the original 1933 film on which “House of Wax” is based was also included as a bonus feature. “Round-the-Clock Premiere: Coast Hails House of Wax” looks at the premiere of the film. Lastly, there is an expert commentary track included as well as a theatrical trailer.

The most successful 3D movie of the 1950s, House of Wax, comes to 3D Blu-ray™ for the very first time on October 1st! http://amzn.to/18TEJ1q

Actors: Vicki Lawrence, Beverly Archer, Ken Berry, Dorothy Lyman, Eric Brown
Directors: Dick Martin, Harvey Korman, Roger Beatty
Number of discs: 24
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Starvista Entertainment
DVD Release Date: September 10, 2013
Run Time: 3900 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love “Mama’s Family”? It really brings the dysfunctional into the word family. The series started off as spin-off from reoccurring comedy sketches on “The Carol Burnett Show”, which were called “The Family”. When I think about this show I just think about classic ’80s-era TV. This is before the madness of reality TV, where the talent actually had to be talented! Vicki Lawrence is so amazing playing Thelma ‘Mama’ Harper. She stars alongside a fantastic cast including Rue McClanahan, Betty White, Ken Berry, Harvey Korman and Carol Burnett. For the first time ever, thanks to StarVista Entertainment/Time Life this show is making its debut as a complete series in a very nice Collector’s Set featuring all 130 Episodes taken from the the original broadcast masters. If you are a fan of this show, you do not want to miss this set.

Official Premise: Set in the fictional city of Raytown, “Mama’s Family” revolves around the eye-opening escapades of the Harper clan, headed by formidable matriarch, Mama Harper, a fiery-tempered no-nonsense woman who does not suffer fools gladly. In fact, she makes everybody suffer a little with her patented snappy retorts that truly put the “diss” in dysfunction. Adding to the unforgettable mix are Mama’s journalist sister, Fran (Rue McClanahan, The Golden Girls), who lives with her; her youngest son, Vint (Ken Berry, F-Troop), who moves in with his two teenagers after he is evicted; and Naomi (Dorothy Lyman, All My Children), who marries Vint by Episode 4. Mama’s extended family includes her two daughters, highfalutin’ Ellen (Betty White) and high-strung Eunice (Carol Burnett), as well as Eunice’s husband, Ed (Harvey Korman).

This collector’s set features all 130 episodes on 24 DVDs. Overall this set also contains over ten hours of special features, which are worth the purchase alone. The first two seasons feature the rare, original broadcast masters (aka the “Joe Hamilton” cuts) of the episodes. Each one also included an introductions from  Harvey Korman. There is a cast reunion roundtable with Vicki Lawrence (Mama), Ken Berry (Vint), Dorothy Lyman (Naomi), Beverly Archer (Iola), and Allan Kayser (Bubba).  There are all-new cast and the interview with Vicki Lawrence “interviewing” Mama through the magic of split-screen technology. There is the 1982 CBS-TV movie “Eunice focusing around Mama’s daughter (played by Carol Burnett), There are key “Family” sketches from “The Carol Burnett Show” and much more. Lastly there is also a “Collectible Mama’s Family Album” featuring character bios and a “Mama’s Family Tree”.

Actors: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Ken Jeong
Directors: Todd Phillips
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 100 minutes

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

When I saw “The Hangover”, I thought it was one of the funniest, craziest comedies I have ever seen.  I never thought to myself though, “Man I really want a sequel!” Well money speaks for itself since the first film brought in a boat load of it.  The sequel was a carbon copy of the first film and was quite terrible. I know they say if something works the first time don’t change it but it was no fun.  So when I saw they were making a third film to “complete the trilogy”, I steered very clear. I have to admit though they actually did it up right this time (sort of). I think if they would have made this film the first sequel people wouldn’t have abandoned this franchise.

Official Premise: It’s been two years. Phil, Stu and Doug (Cooper, Helms and Bartha) are happily living uneventful lives at home. The only member of the Wolfpack who’s not content is Alan (Galifianakis). Still lacking a sense of purpose, the group’s black sheep has ditched his meds and given in to his natural impulses in a big way-which, for Alan, means no boundaries, no filters and no judgment… until a personal crisis forces him to finally seek the help he needs. What could possibly go wrong? When the Wolfpack hits the road, all bets are off.

The film feels very epic and large. I have to admit, I wasn’t on the floor laughing but overall I enjoyed the film. They attempt to tie everything up from the first two films, which feels a little forced including bringing back characters like Jeffrey Tambor, Heather Graha and Justin Bartha (who I don’t think speak one word). Zach Galifianakis and Ken Jeong are the highlight of the film. I have never been a fan of Ed Helms and who doesn’t just love Bradley Cooper. I would have liked to see more of Melissa McCarthy. She was funny but not over-the-top and could have added a lot more.

Warner’s delivered an impressive release with this Blu-ray + DVD + UltraViolet combo pack. The 1080p transfer is sharp and very impressive. Normally for a comedy, I would say that it doesn’t really push the standards of Blu-ray but this film does and it looks great. It also showcases really well all the various different locations from the desert to Mexico and (of course) Las Vegas. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 score is absolutely amazing and really feels like a huge action film and not like a comedy.

The special features are a bit of a let down though to be honest. “Replacing Zach: The Secret Auditions” is a short collection of secret auditions with director Todd Phillips. “The Wolfpack’s Wildest Stunts” show the cast/crew working through the films stunts and action sequences. “Zach Galifianakis in His Own Words” talks briefly about his role. “Pushing the Limits” talks about shooting with animals and children. “Inside Focus: The Real Chow” is Ken Joeng being Ken Joeng. There is a one minute “Action Mash-Up” montagte. Lastly there are three short extended scenes and tons of funny outtakes.

The Hangover Part III is available on Blu-Ray Combo Pack 10/8/13 at http://bit.ly/GetHungover

Film Review “The Hangover III”

Actors: James Franco, Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride
Directors: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 107 minutes

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

“This is the End” is based on a short film called “Jay & Seth vs. the Apocalypse”. Now from the posters and everything else about the film you have no idea what it is really about. The film is balls-to-the-wall crazy. A little bit of horror and a whole lot of comedy. The film is gory and even some good scares yet still completely hilarious. The cast is absolutely amazing together including Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, Craig Robinson, James Franco, Jonah Hill and Danny McBride, which play so well off each other. The film basically plays like a sequel to “Pineapple Express”, except the actors play variations of themselves. There are also some surprise cameos (which is no so suprise thanks to the box cover listing them) including Rihanna, Michael Cera and Emma Watson. Easily one of the best comedies in a long time!

Official Premise: “This is the End” follows six friends trapped in a house after a series of strange and catastrophic events devastate Los Angeles. As the world unravels outside, dwindling supplies and cabin fever threaten to tear apart the friendships inside. Eventually, they are forced to leave the house, facing their fate and the true meaning of friendship and redemption.

The DVD of the film comes with an digital copy using Ultraviolet streaming sites. In terms of special features this DVD is a massive disappointment compares to the amazing amount of special features included on the Blu-ray release. There is a commentary track with directors Seth Rogen & Evan Goldberg, which is fun for sure still. There is a featurette called “Directing Your Friends”, with Seth Rogen & Evan Goldberg discussing the production. There are some outtakes, cast featurette, and trailers and four additional confessionals included in “This Is The Marketing”. I was very disappointment that “The Making of “The Making of Pineapple Express 2” and the original short for “Jay & Seth vs. The Apocalypse” were not included.

Actors: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhar, Tom Hardy
Directors: Christopher Nolan
Number of discs: 6
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 456 minutes

From the very first time that I picked up a Batman comic back in the 80’s, he was always my favorite superhero. When you think about the word superhero and then think about Batman, some can debate whether or not his is really super. But in my eyes he is definitely a hero. Batman is one of the more darker of comic book heroes. His back story is grim and he is always battling himself with what he is doing and why he is doing it and always looking for a way out. Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” trilogy has been the best portrayal of the caped crusader to date, no question. His vision of these characters are so deep and lined with tons of great themes. These themes are what take this film beyond the typical superhero action film into something with much more depth and drama. Now that Nolan’s chapter for The Dark Knight has come to an end and we are celebrating the recent release of “The Dark Knight Trilogy: Ultimate Collector’s Edition”, I wanted to take some time to look into these themes that are presented in these great films. I figured we have all seen the film, so I wanted to focus on something new.

When you think about “Batman Begins”, it’s main focus was the rise of our hero. His struggle and fight through his own issues and fear is what made him the hero that he became. Heroism in the film is an apparent theme. The city of Gotham has never had anyone to look up before like him and putting their well-being over his own is what helped Bruce Wayne transforms himself into their hero. This also brings up point of what makes a hero? Batman wouldn’t be where he was if he didn’t experience all his pain and suffering. That is what made him a hero and helped him to overcome it. Another theme that plays a prominent factor in “Batman Begins” is fear. Like I said Bruce Wayne fights not only the villains in the film but also is own fear. His fear of bats and his want to strike fear into his victims are two main points. Also focusing on fear would be the Scarecrow, who hoped to expose the city to fear with this hallucinogen drug.

Anarchy comes to mind when I think about “The Dark Knight”. The Joker’s role in the film is to just spread anarchy and wreck havoc in Gotham. He doesn’t have any clear reasons or purpose, he just does it because it is fun and it entertains him. His back story isn’t clear at all, especially since he changes it every time he tells the story when he asks “You wanna know how I got these scars?”. He is one of the great villains in history due to that reason of him being unpredictable and unreasonable. To be honest, I think that we are all scared of anarchy in general and what it would bring if there really was someone like Joker terrorizing our streets. That is why it resonates with us so well and we are enamored with this character. Betrayal is also a theme that The Dark Knight faces himself when the city of Gotham turns there back on him after the death of Harvey Dent.

In “The Dark Knight Rises”, I have always felt that it is a blend of all the themes from the previous film and wrapping up all open-ended questions. Carrying over from “The Dark Knight”, Bruce Wayne is dealing with the denial from Gotham turning their backs on him. He continues to fight with him fears of continuing to put on the cowl and fighting for justice. He questions his intentions and almost let’s it get the better of him. With the character of Bane, the idea of order really comes into play. Bane wants to take all order out of Gotham and succeeds for the most part when the city is under his control. His character also deals with a bit of betrayal as well as we see in his back story when we find out what made him snap. Human nature is also a very big part of the film, as we see what happens when the order is removed from society. Luckily strength defeats the chaos in the film as we seen not only Batman’s rise over his enemies and his own struggles but the city itself as they step up on their own.

So obviously these are only a few of the dozens of amazing themes included within these three very well made films. Before Nolan’s trilogy for “The Dark Knight”, you would never have thought that a “superhero” movie would have this much depth and character to it. I believe that it has changed the path for the future of these films and it will open doors for filmmakers to expand the universe of this films. I would love to open the door as well to everyone reading to point our your favorite themes from these films as well in the comments below. If you are looking to revisit these great themes and enjoy these films again, I would highly recommend picking up “The Dark Knight Trilogy: Ultimate Collector’s Edition”.

This amazing release includes all previous special features from the films as well as a bunch of one extras as well. “The Fire Rises: The Creation and Impact of The Dark Knight Trilogy”, is a behind-the-scenes look on the franchise and is full of never-before-seen footage, rare moments, and exclusive interviews. “Christopher Nolan & Richard Donner: A Conversation” is a sit down chat with directors Christopher Nolan (“The Dark Knight Trilogy”) and Richard Donner (“Superman”). Lastly there are the complete IMAX® Sequences included for “The Dark Knight” and “The Dark Knight Rises”. There is also some great new and exclusive memorabilia including three premium Mattel Hot Wheels Vehicles: Batmobile, Batpod and Tumbler. There is a newly commissioned collectible art cards by Mondo featuring Scarecrow, Joker, Bane, Harvey Dent, and Ra’s al Ghul and a 48-page book featuring production stills and behind-the-scenes images from all three movies. Lastly, you get digital copies of all the films to add to your Ultraviolet account. Act quick though since this set is limited and numbered to only 141,000 copies.

Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Maggie Smith, Dan Stevens, Michelle Dockery, Joanne Froggatt
Created by: Julian Fellowes
Number of discs: 9
Studio: PBS
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Running Time: 1425 minutes

Seasons: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

I have to admit, I have never watched “Downton Abbey” prior to hearing of this new release. I know that series four just started airing in the UK and the hype is all around. Created by Academy Award-winner Julian Fellowes (“Gosford Park”) and features a quite outstanding cast. I wanted to give this show a shot since literally everyone is talking about it. In the US, after the airing of the third series it has become the highest-rated PBS drama of all time. PBS is releasing “Downton Abbey: Seasons 1, 2 & 3” as a limited edition box set which includes all three seasons of the series, as well as a bonus documentary, “Secrets of Highclere Castle. This series is quite amazing, just a marvel to look at. So well acted and so well scripted. I am now hooked and can’t wait to see what lies in for series four.

Official Premise: “Downton Abbey” tells the story of a complicated community. The house has been home to the Crawley family for many generations, but it is also where their servants live, and plan, and dream, and they are as fiercely jealous of their rank as anyone. Some of them are loyal to the family and committed to Downton as a way of life, others are moving through, on the look out for betterment or love or just adventure. The difference is that they know so many of the secrets of the family, while the family know so few of theirs. But for all the passions that rage beneath the surface, this is a secure world, serene and ordered, and, at first glance, it seems it will last forever. Little do they know, family or staff, that the clouds of the conflict that will change everything are already gathering over their heads.

Just a note if you are a really hardcore “Downton Abbey” fan, I would suggest getting this from Amazon since it includes an additional over 50 minutes of exclusive footage not available anywhere else. There are never-before-seen deleted scenes from Seasons 1-3, all-new cast interviews, and 11 minutes of clips and interviews from Season 4! So that would be the way to go and easily worth the purchase of the release alone. The episodes look and sound great on Blu-ray, a real improvement over the presentation on PBS. The 1080p transfer looks amazing and really captures the beauty of the gorgeous Highclere Castle. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 also delivers a great presentation, especially with the score from composer John Lunn. The score works so well with the show, which also made me immediately download the CD.

The rest of the bonus features includes are also available on the previously released Blu-rays. Season 1 consists of “Making of Downton Abbey – A House in History” and “Great British Heritage Pass, a promotional spot for British tourism”. Season 2 consists of the “Downton Abbey Christmas Special”  and the following three featurettes “Fashion and Uniforms”, “Romance in a Time of War” and “House to Hospital”. Season 3 delivers the best extras of the three with the powerful Season 3 Finale: “A Journey to the Highlands”, “Downton Abbey Behind the Drama”, “Shirley MacLaine at Downton “, “The Men of Downton” and “Downton in 1920”. All three seasons add up to more than three hours of bonus content. Lastly the bonus disc: “Secrets of Highclere Castle” includes the one-hour documentary, which takes us the castle featured in Downton Abbey and gives a unique look behind-the-scenes on this show.