Actors: Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Jon Huertas, Seamus Dever, Tamala Jones
Number of discs: 5
Studio: ABC Studios
DVD Release Date: September 10, 2013
Run Time: 1032 minutes

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

Man, do I love “Castle”! It is easily my favorite show on television. The show is so amazing and has shown such amazing growth over its five seasons. I have watched plenty of procedural cop shows and there are literally none of them come close to this show. The writing is like no other show that I have seen on television, the dialogue is so sharp and witty. We have been watching these characters now for the last five seasons and I love where they are taking each of them as each episode progress.  The scales of the episodes are also so large and epic. You would think that a show going into its fifth season would get lazy and repetitive but this show never ceases to surprise you.

The chemistry between Beckett and Castle are amazing, especially this season since they finally get together after four seasons of tension. In fact season five is easily my favorite of season to date. We all know that we want to see Beckett and Castle together, we have been teased with that over the last four seasons. In season five we were delivered that relationship and also given what a cliffhanger. Is Beckett going to take the job in Washington or get married to Castle and stay in NYC.  Seriously, I am getting chills just typing those words.  I can’t wait to see what direction they are going to take this show in the sixth season. Keep up the great job guys!

Official Premise: Together at last! After four seasons of sparring and heated banter, TV’s dynamic crime-solving team finds romance in ABC’s Castle: The Complete Fifth Season. Relive all 23 unforgettable episodes, complete with never-before-seen bonus features only available on DVD, in this spectacular five-disc set. Now that Castle and Beckett (“Caskett”) have finally given into their true feelings for each other, how will it affect their work together? As they try to keep their new relationship under wraps from their co-workers, the unlikely duo must track down the murderer of Beckett’s mother, find the perpetrator of a major conspiracy, and untangle a line of investigation that links Castle to a ritualistic killing. The action and passion heat up like never before in the brilliant fifth season of ABC’s Castle!

ABC Studios has delivered impressive DVD releases for this show ever since season one, though I am always disappointed that it has never been given the Blu-ray treatment like other ABC show’s “Once Upon a Time”. This five disc set includes the amazing 24 episodes of season 5 along with the tons of amazing special features.  Also for an extra bonus we get trading cards for the seasons three and four, which are set to be released this Winter and a special card you can used with the recently released Castle Detective Card Game. If you haven’t had a chance to check out the card game it is amazing and a must have for any “Castle” fan.

The special features are just as epic as this season. There are four amazing audio commentary tracks included. The first on the episode “The Final Frontier” which features Nathan Fillion, Director Jonathan Frakes and costume designer Luke Reichle. This episode is amazing and the commentary is just as good. Fillion is always a blast when he gets the microphone. Next up, is “Target” with Molly Quinn, Susan Sullivan, Executive Producer/Writer David Amann and Director Bill Roe, which is also a must. The next episode commentary is on “Hunt” with Executive Producer/Writer Andrew W Marlowe and Director Rob Bowman join Nathan Fillion and Molly Quinn. The last commentary track is on the 100th episode “The Lives of Others” and includes writers Andrew W Marlowe and Terri Edda Miller as well as editor Marta Evry and composer Robert Duncan.

If those commentary tracks aren’t enough, there is still more.  There are some great deleted scenes included and the bloopers are a must watch. You can tell that these people really have a great time doing what they do on this show. You can also see how well they all get along. There are some great featurettes including “Lot Cops”, which shows Seamus Dever and Jon Huertas going to cop school. Susan Sullivan takes us through the 100th episode in “Martha’s Master Class” and “Your Home Is Your Castle” looks into the set designs for Castle’s loft and Beckett’s apartment. Lastly there also is an Easter Egg included for “The Final Frontier”.

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Starring: Peter Cushing, Shane Briant
Director: Terence Fisher
Rated: R (Restricted)
Distributed by: Warner Archive
DVD Release Date: August 27, 2013
Running Time: 93 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Peter Cushing is an actor that has and always will be one of the legendary faces of horror. “Frankenstein and The Monster From Hell” is a 1974 Hammer Film Productions. So when you hear the words Hammer and Cushing you know that you instantly have a winner here. Besides Cushing, the film co-stars Shane Briant and David Prowse (aka Darth Vadar in “Star Wars”). This film was well-known since it was also the final chapter in the Hammer Frankenstein saga of films, as well as director, Terence Fisher’s, last film. This was also the the sixth that Peter Cushing portrayed the role of Baron Frankenstein, which he originated back in 1957’s “The Curse of Frankenstein”. David Prowse, the man behind the suit, played Frankenstein’s monster again with his first been in “The Horror of Frankenstein”. Fun little fact, that he actually is the only actor to have played a Frankenstein’s monster in a Hammer production more than once. Not my favorite Hammer film but fans might want to check it out and add to their collection.

Official Premise: Terence Fisher makes his directorial denouement in the final Peter Cushing Hammer Frankenstein flick. This installment finds the mad doctor pretending to be a mad doctor in a madhouse thanks to some skeletons in the asylum director’s closet. Thanks to some ill-advised bodysnatching, a young protégé for the Baron (Shane Briant) arrives as an inmate and becomes the perfect apprentice from hell. The two set about restoring a monsterwork (David Prowse) of the doctor’s, but the creature proves beyond the pair’s control.

Warner Archive is behind this release and they consistently have been standing behind films like this and giving them first-time ever or long out-of-print reissues DVD releases. The DVD presentation is solid for a film of the 70’s on a low production. There hasn’t been any restoration or remastering on this title but like most Warner Archives it has been manufactured from the best-quality video master currently available. It is presented in 16×9 Widescreen and like I said, definitely looks solid. There is a Dolby Digital audio track included which works with the score and the Hammer atmosphere. The only special feature included is a commentary track by actors Madeline Smith, David Prowse, and Genre Historian Jonathan Sothcott.

Voices of: David Bedella, Jonathan Forbes, Teresa Gallagher, Bob Golding
Directed by: David Baas
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Lyons / Hit Ent.
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 62 minutes

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

It’s been a while since the last time I watched this series. In fact it was back in with the theatrical film “Thomas and the Magic Railroad”, which I actually saw in theaters. But now having a 15 month old child of my own, I have been reintroduced into the world of “Thomas & Friends”. “Thomas & Friends” is currently the number one preschool toy license in the US and only getting more popular! “Thomas & Friends: King of the Railway” is an all-new CG animated epic movie adventure that is sure to have fans of all ages yelling “ALL ABOARD!” Fans of the show will also be excited for the introduction of four new engines and one new destination on the Island of Sodor. This film is not only entertaining but it also very educational. A must for all “Thomas & Friends” fans!

Official Premise: Join Thomas & Friends as they embark on a legendary movie adventure! The steam team’s quest begins when a special guest arrives on Sodor with a big surprise and important jobs for Thomas, Percy and James. The engines meet new friends and discover suits of armor; coats of arms and legends of long-ago heroes. Then their bravery is put to the test when their new friend Stephen goes missing. Will Thomas find him in time? Will the engines discover the truth about the Island of Sodor’s biggest mystery? It’s a crusade of knightly proportions for Thomas & Friends in this epic movie!

“Thomas & Friends: King of the Railway” pulls into the station in a very cool Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack. The 1080p transfer is very crisp for this CGI animated film. The DTS HD-Master Audio 5.1 track works very well with the film’s music, which will have kids singing along. The colors in the film are vibrant and very warm. The kids are going to love this and the series has never looked better. In terms of special features, I was pretty impressed since there is a bunch of fun extras for the kiddies. We have two interactive games including “The Search for the Lost Crown” and “Guess Who? Puzzles. There are also three Karaoke Music Videos included for the following songs: “It’s Gonna Be a Great Day”, “Searching Everywhere” and “Working Together!”

Actors: Don Kessler, Tom Wilkinson
Directors: Melissa R. Butts
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 37 minutes

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

There is something about space that has always facisinated me, probably everything. For me it is the unknown that lies above us. IMAX has provided some great films about space including “Space Station 3D”. “Space Junk 3D” is a very educational title and also very entertaining. It is narrated by two time Academy Award® Nominee Tom Wilkinson (“In the Bedroom” and “Michael Clayton”). He delivered an excellent and fun overview of this topic backed with some very impressive visuals that only an IMAX film could bring us. There is also great interviews with leading experts like Don Kessler. I have to admit, I didn’t really know much about this topic prior to watching but I am sucker for anything in space and now I find myself researching long after the 37 minute film completed, so I call that mission accomplished!

Official Premise: What Goes Up Doesn’t Always Come Down. With media headlines repeatedly warning us of debris falling from the skies, orbital debris (or “space junk”) has finally risen to the forefront of social consciousness. “Space Junk 3D”, narrated by Academy Award® Nominee Tom Wilkinson, is the first movie to explore the exponentially expanding ring of debris that threatens the safety of our planet’s orbits. Experience mind-boggling collisions, both natural and man-made. Soar the stunning depths of Meteor Crater to an unprecedented view of our increasingly crowded orbits – 22,000 miles above earth! Join foremost expert Don Kessler, the “Father of Space Junk,” guides us through the challenges we face in protecting them, forging a new age of space discovery. This is a 3D cosmic adventure like no other!

Image is releasing this film with both a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray discs. The 1080p transfer originally shot for IMAX screens looks quite amazing and is presented in high definition widescreen 1.78:1. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works very well with Tom Hambleton’s score. The special features are worth checking out as well in addition to this film. They included a behind-the-scenes “Making of” look into the film. There is an “Interview with Tom Wilkinson” included, which is a must watch. There is also a behind-the-scenes photo gallery and an extensive 3D trailer set included.

Actors: Robert Patrick, Danielle Harris, Electra Avellan
Directors: Gabriel Bologna
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
Release Date: September 10, 2013
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

Finally!! If you are a horror fan than you will know what I am talking about here. I saw “The Black Waters of Echo’s Pond” during its all too brief run in theaters back in early 2010. So for the last nearly four years, all us horror fans have been anxiously waiting for a DVD…Blu-ray…any type of home media release for this film. Luckily Anchor Bay finally stood up and hooked us up. The film is jam-packed with a great genre cast including Danielle Harris (“Halloween”), James Duval (“Donnie Darko”), Nick Menell (“Friday the 13th”), Electra & Elise Avellan from (“Machete) and Robert Patrick “Terminator 2: Judgement Day”). Flawed but still a ton of fun and worth checking out for all those horror fans who missed it in theaters. Worth the wait!

Official Premise: During a Turkish archaeological dig early last century, an ancient board game said to have entertained demons was unearthed. Now nearly 90 years later, a group of vacationing friends — including a cynic, a rich jerk, a slutty starlet, a jock and prudish twin sisters — discover the game hidden in an old house on a remote Maine island. And with a roll of the dice, their darkest secrets will unleash all the greed, jealousy and lusts of Hell itself.

Anchor Bay delivered “The Black Waters of Echo’s Pond” with a fine Blu-ray release. The 1080p transfer looks very sharp on the low-budget horror flick. The film is quite dark and yet it still looks great. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track works great with the film’s suspense, especially with Harry Manfredini’s amazing score! He is a legend in terms of horror scores and he really delivers a great score here! In terms of special features, I have to admit that I am a bit let down. I was hoping for a jam-packed release with special features but instead we only get an Alternate Opening, which is cool but not what I was expecting. A commentary track would have been cool as well, especially with this cast. I guess it all comes down to the fact that at least the film is finally released for fans to see that is more important.

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Actors: Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, Meg Tilly,Robert Loggia, Dennis Franz
Directors: Richard Franklin
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 113 minutes

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

How do you follow up an amazing classic film like Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho”? Well for first bring back Anthony Perkins as Norman Bates. Second bring in hot newbie writer Tom Holland (Fright Night) to set a killer (no pun intended…well maybe some) script. While this film does not reach the reaches of the first “Psycho” but it is a damn awesome sequel. The film is set 22 years after the events of the first “Psycho” and packs a great cast, besdies Perkins, including Vera Miles, Robert Loggia, Meg Tilly and Dennis Franz.  The film always struck me as being very clever and still holds up today. A must have for any horrorhound.

Official Premise: Psycho II is the terrifying sequel to one of the most suspenseful films of all time, Alfred Hitchock’s Psycho. Anthony Perkins makes a horrific homecoming in his role as the infamous Norman Bates, who, after years of treatment at a mental institution for the criminally insane, still can’t quite elude the demands of “Mother.” Vera Miles also returns a the inquisitive woman who is haunted by her sister’s brutal murder and the ominous motel where it all occurred.

Scream Factory really gave a lot of love to “Psycho II” as it has never looked better.  The Blu-ray’s 1080p transfer with an aspect ratio of 1.84:1 is very sharp and quite impressive. There is a little bit of grain showing but overall, it is a great high-definition transfer. In terms of audio tracks “Psycho II” contains both DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 aiming to showcase the film’s original sound design and a supped up DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. I have to admit, I enjoyed both but the 5.1 track really worked the best for me with Jerry Goldsmith’s score.

The special features are worthy of this collector’s edition as well.  There are vintage cast and crew interviews, which runs just over 30 minutes. There is a option to play the film with cast and crew interviews (audio only), which are different from the ones above. This is a pretty cool feature for hardcore fans. There is a brand new audio commentary track with Tom Holland and is hosted by Rob Galluzzo (writer-producer-director of “The Psycho Legacy”). Great addition to this release and a must listen for any fan of the film. Holland really kicks some ass here. Lastly there are some trailers, TV spots and a still gallery included.

Starring: Tara Reid, Ian Ziering, John Heard
Director: Anthony C. Ferrante
Rated: Unrated
Studio: The Asylum
DVD Release Date: September 3, 2013
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I have always been a fan of B-movie films about sharks and I personally have seen them all not matter how bad. From “Swamp Shark” to “Super Shark” to the “Mega Shark” series, they are all fun films. Are they great pieces of cinema? Hell no! But still very entertaining and very fun. I think it was “Mega Shark vs. Giant Octopus” that really raised the bar for these films and created worldwide recognition for this genre. “Sharknado” is just such a fun title that you can’t help but say “What the *$#$” when just hearing it. The film works the exact same way, take it for what it is just plain stupid fun.

The film became a cult classic and a cultural phenomenon before it even aired on Syfy. But honestly with a title like that how could it not. It literally has become a huge hit since it has aired and developed a growing and devoted fan-base since then. No this is not the best movie ever, in fact it is quite bad but like a car accident you can’t look away. I like to describe this movie as “the best movie of the year…yet also the worst”. So if you are looking for a good time, this will definitely be the flick to watch to do so.

Official Premise: Produced by The Asylum, “Sharknado” is the story of beachside bar regulars including owner Fin (Ian Ziering, “Beverly Hills 90210″), bartender Nova (Casie Scerbo, “Make It Or Break It”) and local drunk George (John Heard, “Home Alone”) as they team up with Fin’s ex-wife April (Tara Reid, “Scrubs”) to investigate the ecological nightmare that has sharks swimming through the streets of Los Angeles and falling from the skies.

So if you read the cast below, you see pretty decent names in this cast. Ian Ziering is just so much fun in the film. He knows this film is a gag and really just has fun with its. He is also great in a recent film called “National Lampoon’s The Legend of Awesomest Maximus”. Tara Reid plays it a little too serious for me and tries to “act” too hard. John Heard aka the dad from “Home Alone” has an all too brief role but gets some good lines in. Casie Scerbo is one of the cast that I wasn’t too aware prior but she easily took away some of the best lines in the film. That is another thing, I see this film being quoted for years to come. “They took my grandfather. So I really hate sharks.” Classic!

The Blu-ray itself, I have to admit I was expecting much more. With all the hype surrounding this film, I would have hoped that The Asylum would have given this some extra love but instead it gets a typical pretty typical release. The 1080p transfer works for the most part giving the film is not perfect. The film goes from dark skies to a sunny day in one sec, so if you get get past that. The transfer works for what it is given. The audio is impressive though with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

The special features are a decent but I would have loved to see them really capitalize on the fandom surrounding the film. There is a brief behind-the-scenes looks with “The Making of Sharknado”, as well as gag reel included. Lastly there is a cast & crew commentary track, which is fun and definitely worth the repeat viewing. If they took a little more time on this release, they could have included some of the fandom that this film has developed like artwork etc. I also think it would have been fun to attend a screening when this was shown in theaters and filmed a bit there as well with fan interviews. I would have loved to see more of that as well.

If you want more don’t worry Syfy is bringing it to you. There is already plans for a sequel called “Sharknado 2: The Next One”, which will be set in New York City and premiere on the Channel in July 2014. There is also a contest going on to be in the film and killed by a shark, so if you are in NYC and love this film that is a must to seek out. So get ready to roll those eyes as the madness continues with these very fun films.

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Actors: Lori Cardille, Terry Alexander, Richard Liberty, Joseph Pilato
Directors: George A. Romero
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

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

I have always loved “Day of the Dead” but it is a very hard act to follow! “Dawn of the Dead” is easily one of the best horror films ever. But “Day” still has a ton of life in it (get the pun?!) and still holds up today even after almost 30 years. With TV shows like “The Walking Dead” and  films like “World War Z”, zombies have never been hotter, so this is a great time to revisit this classic. You also get to see “The Walking Dead” Director/Co-Executive Producer/Special Effects Make-Up Artist Greg Nicotero start off in the business with his first acting role. “Scream Factory, which is part Shout Factory, is finally giving this film the release that it deserves with this Collector’s Edition Blu-ray. This film has never looked so good and shines with this release. If you own Starz/Anchor Bay rather bland 2007 release of this film, it is definitely worth the upgrade. No question!

Official Premise: The concluding part of George A. Romero’s cult horror trilogy opens with the undead roaming the planet freely. The living have been forced underground, where they make their base in a hidden missile depot, helping with the experiments of scientist Doctor Logan (Liberty), who hopes to domesticate the zombies. However, the military faction of the human survivors favour a more direct approach, and with food stocks becoming ever more depleted, they decide to take action. What folllows is the final showdown between the forces of the living and the armies of the dead.

Scream Factory gave this film a lot of love with a brand new high-def transfer…and it looks stunning. I have the older 2007 Blu-ray and the comparison is really amazing.  Top that with a solid DTS-HD Master Audio track and this release is kicking on all cylinders. There is also some fantastic special features including two brand new extras. “World’s End: The Legacy of “Day of the Dead” is a brand new documentary, which is easily worth the purchase of the disc alone. “Underground: A Look into the ‘Day of the Dead’ Mines” is another new feature looking into the film’s shooting location.  There are two audio commentary tracks, the first with writer/director George A. Romero, Special Make-up Effects artist Tom Savini, Production Designer Cletus Anderson and actress Lori Cardille. The second is with filmmaker Roger Avary.  There is some great behind-the-scenes footage coming straight from Tom Savini’s personal archives. Lastly there are Photo Galleries, Theatrical Trailers and TV Spots included.

Actors: Josh Duhamel, Dan Fogler
Directors: Kevin Goetz, Michael Goetz
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Vertical Entertainment
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 86 minutes

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

I was drawn to “Scenic Route” due to its cast starring Josh Duhamel (“Safe Haven”, “Transformers”) and Dan Fogler (“Kung Fu Panda”, “Balls of Fury”). But I had no idea what I was getting myself into.  “Scenic Route” was such a wild gripping ride.  It packs some really stunning performances from Duhamel and Fogler. When I think of Duhamel, I think about action star or romantic lead and when I think of Fogler, I think comedy.  “Scenic Route” packs some serious dramatic moments and keeps you on the edge of your seats.  Did I mention the entire film take place in the desert. Totally blown away here. Highly recommend this little gem!

Official Premise: Mitchell (Josh Duhamel) and Carter (Dan Fogler), life-long friends who have drifted apart, are on a road trip when their old pickup breaks down, leaving them stranded on an isolated desert road. Nobody can pick apart a man like his best friend, and as the relentless elements of the desert grind them down, they start to attack each other’s life decisions with unwavering brutality. As they question who they are and who they could have been, their agitation leads to physical confrontation and ultimately knife-wielding madness, and what begins as an inconvenience becomes a very real life or death struggle.

Vertical Entertainment delivered a very sharp Blu-ray release, which includes a Vudu digital streaming copy. The film is shot on a small scale but really has this wide wide since it’s background is the whole desert. It feels open yet still claustrophobic. The transfer is very clear and sharp.  Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which really adds a lot to the film as well from the dialogue to the haunting score. In terms of special features there is an audio commentary track included with the directors and Josh Duhamel.  I was very suprised to see him on the track but I am glad he is cause I really enjoyed it and it make it definitely worth the repeat viewing.

Actors: Christian Slater, Brendan Fehr, Amy Matysio, Michael Therriault
Directors: Roger Christian
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: August 27, 2013
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

You would think that director Roger Christian would have learned better after helming “Battlefield Earth” to stay away from the sci-fi genre. He does get props for me since he was a part of the Academy Award-winning team that art-directed the first “Star Wars”. Let’s not bullshit around here, “Stranded” is a sci-fi generic recycled piece of crap….but I still enjoyed it. Christian Slate does a good job as usual and carries the rest of the cast on his shoulders. The film tries really hard to be a blend of “Alien” meets “The Thing”. The special features are just ok but due to its low-budget it is quite impressive. I would recommend to sci-fi/horror junkies like myself.

Official Premise: When the isolated U.S. military moonbase is bombarded by a rogue meteor storm, Colonel Gerard Brauchman (Christian Slater) and his small crew are cut off from Earth with their life support failing. Before long, the crew discovers the meteors harbored alien spores…and they’re replicating. Now a vicious, shape-shifting predatory life form is loose inside the crippled facility, picking off victims one by one. Locked in a desperate fight for survival, Brauchman and the terrified remaining astronauts have one final mission…keep the creature from escaping the moon and finding a new food supply on Earth.

Image delivers a very sharp Blu-ray presentation for this low-budget film. I have to admit, I loved the 1080p transfer for this film. Even though, the film is quite dark, it is well shot and really well done. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 also scores a home run as well. It works with suspense and action. The special features are not the greatest but at least they have some extras included, so props there. “The Making of Stranded” is a pretty solid 15 minutes behind-the-scenes look into the film with interviews from the cast/crew. “Life on the Moon: The FX of Stranded” is also a great feature with makeup effects artist Emersen Ziffle but I just wish it ran a little longer to show off the impressive visual and practical effects.

Actors: Zhao Wei, Jaycee Chan, Kun Chen
Directors: Jingle Ma
Rated: TV-MA
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: September 3, 2013
Run Time: 115 minutes

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

I can’t help it (and I am sure I am not the only one), whenever I think about “Mulan”, I can’t help but think about the 1998 Walt Disney animated film. Well before watching “Mulan: Rise of a Warrior”, you must separate that connection because it is two very different film. There is no smart-talking dragons here, sorry Eddie Murphy. The director Jingle Ma, who is known for action films like “Tokyo Raiders” and “Seoul Raiders”, really had a vision for this and for the most part he is successfully in making it work. The film itself seemed a little too long for me but it is packed with great performances and impressive action sequences. So I think it is worth recommending to check out for a renter at least.

Official Premise: When barbarian hordes threaten her homeland, the brave and cunning Mulan disguises herself as a male soldier to swell the ranks in her aging father’s stead. The warrior’s remarkable courage drives her through powerful battle scenes and brutal wartime strategy. Mulan will be no stranger to sacrifice as she rises to become one of her country’s most valuable leaders. She’ll lose dear friends to the enemy’s blade—but can she win the war before her secret is exposed?

I originally though that this was an odd title for Funimation to be releasing since they are primarily known for releases some of my favorite Japanese animes. But I give them credit for rescuing this film, which was shot back in 2009, and gave it a proper Blu-ray release. In fact, they released this as a Blu-ray + DVD Combo Pack, which is a real treat. The 1080p transfer works with the epic feel that this film brings especially in the battle scenes. This release also comes stocked with both a Mandarian Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track and also an English dub with same specs. I preferred the original language track for sure over the dub but I still like having the preference.

There is no much in terms of quantity for the special features but there is great content. The “Making of Mulan” runs the length of a feature film just over 70 minutes. I enjoyed this quite a bit, there is a lot of great footage included in here. You really get a feel for the depth of the production within this feature. The other extra is a collection of interviews with the cast and crew, which runs about 15 minutes, also worth checking out for sure. Both extras are presented in Mandarin with English subtitles. So like I said no a lot of extras but they pack a solid punch. Great job overall, Funimation! Hope to see more live-action entries in your upcoming library as well, as your normal kick-ass animes.

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Actors: Pål Sverre Hagen, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, Tobias Santelmann, Gustaf Skarsgård, Jakob Oftebro
Directors: Joachim Rønning, Espen Sandberg
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
Release Date: August 27, 2013
Run Time: 96 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I heard about “Kon-Tiki” came to my attention during the Oscars earlier this year. It was nominated for the 2013 Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Feature Film (Norwegian). I am also a sucker for a good film at sea and this really seemed exciting and entertaining. I have to say I was blown away and this film no question should have deserved the award. Due the success of this film, the Norwegian directors Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg’s next project is going to be the fifth “Pirates of the Caribbean”, so they hit it big already. The film is extremely visual and packs some of the best special effects, I have I seen recently in a non-big budget film. Highly Recommended.

Official Premise: Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl (Pal Sverre Hagen) crossed the Pacific ocean in a balsa wood raft in 1947, together with five men, to prove that South Americans already back in pre-Columbian times could have crossed the sea and settle on Polynesian islands. After gathering financing for the trip with loans and donations, they set off on an epic 101 day-long journey across 8,000 kilometers, all while the world was watching. Kon-Tiki tells about the origin of Heyerdahl’s idea and the events surrounding the group’s voyage. Earlier this year, Kon-Tiki was selected to represent Norway in the Best Foreign Language Film category of the 85th Academy Awards.

It recently came to my attention that the US theatrical cut was in fact edited from 119 minutes to 96 minutes. So this a little bit disappointing that we do not get the extended cut, especially since this version was the one that was nominated for the Academy Award as Best Foreign Feature Film. Anchor Bay did gives this film some love delivering the film as a Blu-ray + DVD Combo Pack. They both also come with the original Norwegian language track, as well as an English dub. No question, I prefer the original. The 1080p is crystal clear and plays well off the films amazing CGI effects and gorgeous cinematography.

I have to have the special features may not be much but they are still worth checking out, especially for the “Visual Effects Featurette”, which runs just under 10 minutes. Great detail before and after CGI effects focused on the Great White scene. I originally watched this online and I knew I immediately had to see this film just based on this one featurette. “Kon-Tiki: The Incredible True Story” is a 25 minute extra focusing on the actual expedition that Thor Heyerdahl made in 1947 and its legacy. I would have loved to see a commentary track included by our directors taking about making this visual masterpiece.

Actors: Ray Liotta, Dominic Purcell, Michael Pare
Directors: Uwe Boll
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Nasser
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

“Suddenly” is a remake of the 1954 film, which starred Frank Sinatra, which was also just released on Blu-ray last December. This remake is directed by Uwe Boll, known best for his video game films “Blood Rayne”, “Postal” and “House of the Dead”. But before you go freaking out, Uwe has really stepped us his game in the last few years. “Assault on Wall Street” was easily his best film to date, which coincidentally also starred Dominic Purcell. The film is set in modern time, with Boll even hiring an Obama double to play the President. In the original, Sterling Hayden was the Sheriff and Frank Sinatra was the bad guy. In this film, Ray Liotta is the sheriff and Dominic Purcell is the bad guy. I was really impressed with this. Of course it doesn’t come anywhere near the original but it is fun to watch and I recommend you give it a chance.

Official Premise: Tod Shaw, a small-town cop, is a former Marine who lost his best friend in battle. Now unable to deal with the label war hero, he turns to alcoholism, which costs him his job. But after news hits that the President is coming through their town of Suddenly, he’s allowed to remain on duty- and it couldn’t come at a better time. Three assassins posing as Secret Service Agents have not only taken over his late friends’ home, but has also taken his family hostage and it will be up to Shaw to come to grip with his demons and save not only them, but the President of the United States.

I have always had a sweet spot for Uwe Boll’s film but this is definitely one of his best. It is well shot and packs some solid suspense. I think Boll got stuck in the idea that he can only do cheesy horror video game films but he really knows have to direct action quite well. The Blu-ray presentation works for the action in the film with a solid 1080p transfer and a decent DTS-HD Master Audio track. After speaking with Boll personally about this film, read our interview here, I would have loved to see some special features included, with perhaps a featurette or commentary track but here we are delivered a bare-bones Blu-ray release.

Starring: Hiroshi Tachi
Director: Shunji Oga
Number of discs: 6
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Sentai Filmworks
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 1250 minutes

Series: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

“Golgo 13” has been around since its manga days going back to 1969, which was written and illustrated by Takao Saito. I was first introduced to this series with “Golgo 13: The Professional”, which was released in 1983 and fell in love with it. “Golgo 13” currently shows no signs of slowing down as it is currently the oldest manga that still in publication today. This Blu-ray release including the complete collection of the TV series for “Golgo 13”, which was produced by The Answer Studio back in 2008-2009. There are 50 episodes in this series, so there is some substantial content here to be had. This is no OVA, so get ready for some action packed spy insanity. If you love this “Golgo 13” from the manga or past films, this series is a must! It is fun, kick-ass and a great addition to this brand!

Official Premise: His targets never see it coming and he’s never caught. If there’s a witness to the kill, that poor SOB winds up dead too. People say he’s a ghost. A machine. A monster. But he’s Golgo 13, the most feared assassin in the world, the professional’s professional, and the killer of killers. And now he’s back with 50 targeted missions that will keep you glued to the screen and away from the windows. Load up for high-powered, bullet-riddled action with Golgo 13.

Sentai Filmworks gave this show a great Blu-ray treatment.  The episodes are sharp with it’s 1080p transfer and the animation looks very impressive. In the OVA from 1998, “Golgo 13: Queen Bee”, our lead is voiced by John DiMaggio (aka Finn the Dog from “Adventure Time” and Bender from “Futurama”). But in this series, he is voiced by David Wald who is a well-known voice actor for Funimation Entertainment and ADV Films but doesn’t deliver like DiMaggio. In fact, I have to admit if it was DiMaggio voicing Golgo, I would have favored the English: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. But with this release, I would have to recommend the Japanese: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with Golgo voiced by Hiroshi Tachi, for this release no question.

In terms of special features, there really isn’t much here. There is a clean opening and closing animation, which is nice to see once but nothing worth wild really. I was hoping for perhaps a featurette on the voice recording for the English dub or even a commentary track. Besides that there is just some additional trailers for upcoming Sentai titles. But the real sell for me anyway on this release is having all 50 episodes on high-def Blu-ray, so it is worth the purchase for that alone.

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Actors: Trine Dyrholm, Pierce Brosnan
Directors: Susanne Bier
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: September 10, 2013
Run Time: 116 minutes

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

“All you need is love (all together, now!)
All you need is love (everybody!)
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need (love is all you need)”

No ones says it better than The Beatles, right? Although this film is unrelated to the film, I couldn’t help it but make the connection here.  And also what is it about films set in Italy that make they so beautiful and very romantic? I am Italian, so I have grown up with a big Italian family but have never made the trip. Normally I am not a big “romantic comedy” fan but set in Italy, the city of love, I just couldn’t resist.  I also have found a new found love for Brosnan since he rocked it hard on “Mamma Mia”. The film is well directed and well-acted.  I recommend this for any couple to enjoy on a date night.  It is a little cheesy but it will definitely score you point men! Take my word for it!

Official Premise: From Susanne Bier, director of the Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning film In A Better World (2011, Best Foreign Language Film) comes a romantic comedy set in Sorrento, Italy. Philip (Brosnan), an Englishman living in Denmark, is a middle-aged widower and estranged single father. Ida (Dyrholm) is a Danish hairdresser who’s just been left by her husband for a younger woman. The fates of these two souls are about to intertwine as they embark for a trip to Italy to attend the wedding of Patrick and Astrid, Philip’s son and Ida’s daughter. It’s a story about seeking love and having the courage to change your life – even when you think it’s too late.

Sony delivered an impressive Blu-ray release. The 1080p transfer really captures the beauty of the film’s surroundings and looks very sharp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks works with what is it given, there is nothing special but it is clear for the dialogue. The special features are decent as well. I was excited to see that there was an audio commentary with Pierce Brosnan, as well as the director Susanne Bier. This makes for a great revisit to this film. There is a Q&A included with Pierce Brosnan, Trine Dyrholm, Susanne Bier & Anders Thomas Jensen. There are additional cast interviews from the 2012 Venice Film Festival and also a Behind-the-Scenes with Trine Dyrholm from Venice Film Festival 2012.

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