Actors: Ralph Richardson, Ian Holm, Christopher Lambert, Andie MacDowell
Directors: Hugh Hudson
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Bros.
Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 137 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

“Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes” might not be considered the most popular portrayal of Tarzan but has always been one of my favorites. It is far for the worst, has anyone ever seen “Tarzan and the Lost City” back in 1998. Christopher Lambert aka Connor MacLeod from “Highlander”. took on the lead role in the film and does a great job. This version on the Blu-ray is the same extended version of the film which is roughly six minutes longer than the theatrical cut. This production is quite lavish and very beautifully shot.  It also focuses on the character’s dual nature as King of the jungle and as John Clayton, seventh Earl of Greystoke, heir to one of Scotland’s great estates. So I liked that angle of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ story being explored within the film. If you have never seen this film, this would be the way to watch it for sure.

Official Premise: Hugh Hudson’s refreshingly adult revisionist take on Edgar Rice Burroughs’ immortal apeman arrives on Blu-ray like a blast of warm rain forest air. Robert Towne’s script (writing as P.H. Vazak) hews close to Burroughs’ origin as found in Tarzan of the Apes by way of modern anthropology. The second half may thread in some movie mythos (like Jane as English gentry) but plays out its savage vs. civilization theme. Gorgeously shot by John Alcott (The Shining, Who Is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?), Greystoke also boasts an acting pedigree worthy of Burke’s peerage, including Ralph Richardson, Ian Holm , David Suchet, James Fox, and Nigel Davenport with Andie MacDowell and Glenn Close handling Jane physicality and vocality respectively. But the film belongs to Lambert’s heart-wide open performance as Tarzan and Rick Baker’s amazing simian simulations.

Thanks for Warner Archive for giving this film some love to this.  This film has never looked better on this Blu-ray.  Warner Archive has been slowly crossing over into the world of Blu-ray with these classics and this one really benefited from the format. This Blu-ray was set to be released numerous times but was held back in order to perfect the transfer and damn, did it make a difference. The 1080p transfer looks stunning and it has been taken from impressive sources that have been restored with a very close eye to attention.  The film was originally with Dolby Stereo on 35mm and even had a 70mm release with 6-track sound and this film sounds amazing on Blu-ray with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. It works very well with the action and jungle scenes.  The special features are not jam-packed but still work checking out.  There is a fine commentary track with Director Hugh Hudson and Line Producer Garth Thomas, which is quite detailed and thorough.  Lastly there is a trailer included.

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Actors: Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson, Richard Hunt, Dave Goelz
Directors: James Frawley
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Run Time: 95 minutes

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

Who doesn’t love The Muppets! Like many, I grew up watching the Muppets and have already loved their “The Muppet Movie”. Disney is releasing this film for the first time on Blu-ray in it’s Nearly 35th Anniversary Edition (34 years technically). This is the first and probably the best Muppets feature film to date. It stars Kermit and the Gang, Austin Pendleton, Charles Durning, Mel Brooks and Dom DeLuise. It is also jam packed with great cameos including Steve Martin, Richard Pryor, Bob Hope, Orson Welles, James Coburn, Elliott Gould, Carol Kane, Madeline Kahn and Cloris Leachman. After nearly 35 years, this film is just as entertaining and a pleasure to revisit with the family. It has great movie and will guarantee a smile be put on your face! Plus with the The Muppets’ new movie, “Muppets Most Wanted” in theatres March 21, 2014, they are hotter than ever!

Official Premise: Celebrate the Nearly 35th Anniversary of the ultimate frogs-to-riches story with the one that started it all: The Muppet Movie. From the very first “plunk!” of Kermit’s banjo playing “The Rainbow Connection” (Oscar nominee, Best Original Song, 1979), to the hysterical road trip that brings the fearless frog together with Fozzie, Gonzo, Animal and most importantly of all, Miss Piggy, join the jam-packed heartwarming hilarity, outrageous antics and big-shot Hollywood cameos.

Disney brings this film on Blu-ray in a nice combo pack with a digital copy included, which can be redeemed to Vudu or Amazon Instant Video. I am very excited that Disney is finally getting away from the physical digital copy discs and jumping on the streaming digital copy bandwagon. “The Muppet Movie” has never looked better, its 1080p transfer is gorgeous. Any fan of this movie should be blown away at how impressive it looks. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also sounds amazing and works very well with the music in the film like “The Rainbow Connection”, very impressive.

The special features included on this release are a must-watch as well. Firstly, there is director “Jim Frawley’s Extended Camera, which includes previously unseen footage. This is a must watch for any fan of the film. “Interactive Disney Intermission, Starring the Muppets” is a great new feature that really encourages extended and numerous bathroom breaks. Disney has actually made pausing the movie cool with great in-between footage that will entertain along with the film. There is featurette included for Pepe Profiles – “Kermit: A Frog’s Life”. There is an all-new Interactive Frog-E-Oke Sing-Along, which is a ton of fun as wel. Lastly there is a Doc Hooper’s Commercial and Original Trailers included. Left me feeling very satisfied here!

“The Best of Fridays”
Shout Factory
Starring: Larry David, Michael Richards, Melanie Chartoff
Rated: N/A
Runtime: 13 hr. 30 min.

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Fridays” was the west coast’s answer to “Saturday Night Live” and is responsible for launching the careers of Michael Richards, Larry David and Melanie Chartoff. Skit comedy and live musical performances make up the 5 DVD set from Shout Factory titled “The Best of Fridays”. Over 13 hours of material make up this release which is a must have for both music fans and fans of sketch comedy.

The people at Shout Factory have done it again with their latest compilation release titled “The Best of Friday’s”. “Fridays” aired live from 1980-1982 and was probably best known for some of its musical performances by the likes of The Clash, Kiss and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The collection is laid out on four discs which feature the chosen highlights from that particular season with the 5th disc consisting of bonus material. Though the compilation features some interesting appearances by Andy Kaufman, William Shatner and Peter Fonda the musical performances were really what I enjoyed the most. It was great seeing these performances for the first time. Some of which I didn’t even know existed. Kiss performing songs off the ill fated “The Elder” prior to Ace Frehley’s departure, The Clash’s first television appearance along with Devo performing their classic hit “Whip It” was really special to watch. At times the audio is not the greatest however the video which is crisp and clear more than makes up for any other short comings.

The special features portion of the disc was ok however there was nothing out of the ordinary. Cast and crew interviews/stories make up the majority of this section along with a photo gallery and a skit documenting the making of an episode. Fans of sketch comedy will surely want to make room in their collection as will fans of the bands also featured on the collection.

Actors: Simon Rex, Ashley Tisdale, Charlie Sheen, Lindsay Lohan, Katt Williams
Directors: Malcolm D. Lee
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Anchor Bay/Weinstein Company
Release Date: August 20, 2013
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

I have always been a fan of the comedy spoof genre. “Airplane” was and still is my favorite comedy of all-time. “Scary Movie” came in 2000 and was a nice change to the genre. “Scary Movie 2” was not a great follow-up, “Scary Movie 3” was amazing and very funny (before Charlie Sheen went crazy) and then “Scary Movie 4” was another disappointment. So this franchise hasn’t had the best track record, well “Scary Movie V” just puts the nail in the coffin.

One thing, this latest installment does have is an interesting collection of cast including Ashley Tisdale, Simon Rex, Molly Shannon, Heather Locklear, J.P. Manoux, Jerry O’Connell, Snoop Dogg, Usher, Bow Wow, Terry Crews, Mike Tyson Charlie Sheen and Lindsay Lohan. But unfortunately this is just one boring gags after another that have no connection to each other and its gets old after the opening scene. Stay away from this at any cost!

Official Synopsis: The Scary Movie series lampoons the greatest in horror and genre fare, and has grossed over $800 million worldwide. This latest installment includes send ups of Paranormal Activity, Mama, Sinister, The Evil Dead, Inception, Black Swan, Rise of the Planet of the Apes and pop culture featuring Ashley Tisdale, Charlie Sheen, Lindsay Lohan, Snoop Dogg, Katt Williams, Molly Shannon, Terry Crews, Simon Rex, Jerry O’Connell, Sarah Hyland, Katrina Bowden, Tyler Posey, Shad Moss aka Bow Wow, Kate Walsh, Heather Locklear, Mac Miller and Mike Tyson.

Despite the film being horrendous, Anchor Bay delivered an impressive Blu-ray release with a sharp 1080p video and an DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track sounds good. They released this on a combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD and an UltraViolet digital copy. In terms of special features like the film, there is nothing worth wild watching here either. There are a bunch of additional boring deleted and extended scenes, come to about 10 minutes more footage.

Actors: Brina Palencia, Josh Grelle, Christopher R. Sabat, Sonny Strait
Number of discs: 4
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: August 20, 2013
Run Time: 320 minutes

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

“Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine” is a new Japanese anime series from 2012 that is based on Monkey Punch’s “Lupin III” manga. I have always been a huge fan of the original animated series as well. So I am excited to see the franchise come back with a new series. There are over 200 episodes of “Lupin the Third” over it’s past three series, so I am a little upset that there are only 13 episodes included but they are still 13 fantastic episodes. I haven’t seen this show in year and yet picking up with this series it is like I just finished watching series three yesterday. FUNimation is behind this Blu-ray release and I hope they know that they NEED to be releasing the first three “Lupin the Third” series after this. This is a must for any fan of this great franchise.

Official Premise: She’s a thief. A killer. A saint and a scandal. She’s whatever you need her to be to get the job done. After sizing you up with one sinful glance, she disarms you with a touch. You’re powerless to resist. She’s walking seduction, with an insatiable itch for the priceless and a fetish for mischief. She takes your breath away to get what she wants. She takes everything else just because she can. It’s all in a night’s work for the woman called Fujiko Mine. She’s the slinky, sultry thread that holds Lupin III’s crew together – and this is the heist that started it all.

The episodes included in this series are “Master Thief vs. Lady Looter”, “.357 Magnum”, “The Girl and the Samurai”, “Living in Love, Living in Song”, “Blood-Stained Pyramid”, “Prison of Love”, “Music and Revolution”, “Death Day”, “Steamy Desire”, “Dead City”, “Feast of Fools”, “The Woman Called Fujiko Mine, Part 1”, “The Woman Called Fujiko Mine, Part 2”.

Funimation delivers “Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine” with two releases, a standard version and a limited edition version also including an art book. Both versions are 4-disc BD/DVD combo releases. I love how Funimation always delivers both a Blu-ray and DVD release for their shows.  This series comes with both Japanese and English audio tracks.  Having found this show on Adult Swim many years ago, I am a fan of the English track the most. The special features are worth checking out as well after you finish watching this series.  There are commentary track for episodes 6 & 9. There is a “Lupin the Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine” Cast Reunion. “Fujiko Mine at OkraTron 5000” is a look into the show at the audio production company.  There is also an Textless Opening & Closing Songs and trailers included.

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Actors: Ross Clarke-Jones, Tom Carroll, Ben Matson, Kelly Slater, Toni Collette
Directors: Christopher Nelius, Justin McMillan
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Xlrator
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 95 minutes

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

I am not a surfer. I have always wanted to learn to surf. But then I watched “Jaws”. Laugh if you want but I know I am not the only one. Nonetheless, I am still fascinated by the craft and the amazing people that master it like surfing legends Tom Carroll and Ross Clarke-Jones that the film follows. The main draw for me to this film is the fact that it was shot with state-of-the-art miniature 3D cameras. You are literally brought inside the barrel of the waves and I loved every minute of it. If you enjoy watching some amazing surfing in some beautiful locations like Australia and the Great Southern Ocean, then this is a must.

Official Synopsis: Combining cutting-edge 3D technology and bravura filmmaking, STORM SURFERS 3D is the ultimate big-wave thrill ride. The film follows best friends and surfing legends Tom Carroll and Ross Clarke-Jones, along with surf forecaster Ben Matson, as they track and chase giant storms in their quest to ride the Pacific’s biggest and most dangerous waves. Using state-of-the-art miniature 3D cameras that put audiences inside the barrel of the waves, STORM SURFERS 3D is a visually stunning cinematic adventure unlike any other.

Xlrator is delivering “Storm Surfers 3D” in a combo pack with a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray included. Like I mentioned about the 3D is the main draw for this release, but I also tried it in 2D and it still works. The 1080p transfer is absolutely stunning and makes you want to jump through the screen and right into the waves. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track really sounds amazing. Ever since Jack Johnson really hit it big, I have become big fan of surf music. The special features are not amazing but worth checking out. “Behind the Scenes with the Directors” is a short featurette on the production. “Profiles” thats a look into careers of Tom Carroll, Ross Clarke-Jones and Ben Matson. “Ross & Tom’s Need for Speed” feature the duo behind the wheel instead of the water. Lastly there is a “Storm Surfers” trailer.

Actors: Christian Boeving, Mike Mitchell, Ivy Corbin, Tara Cardinal, Carl Wharton
Directors: Marco Ristori, Luca Boni
Producers: Uwe Boll
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Entertainment One
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

When it comes to zombies, there is no shortage out there with “World War Z” and “The Walking Dead”. “Zombie Massacre” is an adaptation of the Wii video game of the same name. When you think of video game adaptions and horror films, you think of Uwe Boll but no he did not direct this film…but Boll did serve as producer and stars as President of the United States. In terms of zombie horror films, this is nothing special but it does have some decent special effects and plenty of topless women zombies (must have been a bunch of strip bars in the area of the outbreak…obviously…right?). So “Zombie Massacre” doesn’t change the genre but did I mention topless zombies? Nonetheless, I think I am a little bit zombied out recently.

Official Premise: A top-secret bacteriological weapon developed by the U.S.Government to create an army of super soldiers triggers an epidemic that turns the citizens of a quiet town into mutated zombies. In an effort to conceal the outbreak, a team of mercenaries is assembled to infiltrate the infected city and detonate an atomic bomb destroying the monsters and all the evidence along with them. No one has to know the truth…unless the mission fails.

Entertainment One delivered a very impressive 1080p transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.39:1. The transfer is sharp and works well with the make-up effects as well and for a low-budget zombie film, I was impressed.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works very well with the zombie madness including gunshots and explosions. The special features are nothing special but work checking out for the . “Superfreak: The Making of Zombie Massacre” is a solid 40+minute behind-the-scenes featurette including the special effects. Next there is are two storyboards including a prologue. Lastly, there is also two trailers included.

Actors: Danielle Harris, Kane Hodder, Zach Galligan
Directors: BJ McDonnell
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Dark Sky Films
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Run Time: 81 minutes

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

The horror genre is easily my favorite out of all types of movies. When I first saw Adam Green’s “Hatchet”, I was blown away.  The film was so gory, in-your-face and did not apologize at all, I loved it. When I saw the sequel, the gore was there but the film itself was not as great. So I was hesitant going into this latest chapter of swamp monster Victor Crowley, but it was totally kick-ass. This was not directed by Adam Green, though he did write the screenplay. It marked the directorial debut of acclaimed cameraman BJ McDonnell, check out our interview with him here. If you weren’t a fan of “Hatchet II”, I recommend you still give this a chance.  They really took the good and the bad of the last film and improved on it. You get a fast, fun and did I mention gory crazy ride here!  Recommended for any true horrorhound! Just be warned it is not for the queasy!

The film packs an amazing genre cast including Danielle Harris and Kane Hodder returning to their roles. Kane Hodder actually gives his best performance Victor Crowley performance to date, he really put a lot into him this time. Also starring are favorites Zach Galligan (“Gremlins”), Caroline Williams (“Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2”), and Derek Mears (“Friday the 13th”, “Predators”). That’s right, be sure to expect an epic Jason vs Jason stand-up with Mears and Hodder.  It is a fanboys dream and it is very sweet. I think that why this film succeeded is that director BJ and his team are really just fans of classics 80’s horror and they made a film that they would want to watch. I hope that this doesn’t conclude the series of “Hatchet” because I would love to see more.

Official Premise: Concluding the saga begun in Adam Green’s hit 2006 thriller, HATCHET III follows the vengeful Marybeth (Halloween’s Danielle Harris) as she continues seeking out a way to destroy Victor Crowley (Kane Hodder, Friday the 13th), a hulking, seemingly-invincible sociopath rampaging through a sleepy Louisiana swamp. While a heavily-armed team of mercenaries takes to the bayou surrounding Crowley’s home, Marybeth finds herself begrudgingly teaming up with a local policeman (Gremlins star Zach Galligan) and his ex-wife (Caroline Williams, Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2) – an expert on the maniac who may have uncovered the secret to ending his murderous rampage once and for all.

Dark Sky Films released this unrated director’s cut of “Hatchet III”.  The Blu-ray presentation is very impressive for the low-budget horror title.  The 1080p transfer is crisp and really work even in the extremely dark setting the film takes place in.  The gore is well represented, in fact this film actually made me look away at point and that is a first in a while.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works with the action scenes, including every chainsaw, bone breaking effects etc. The special features are impressive like the film itself.  There are two commentary tracks, the first is with Writer/Producer Adam Green, Director BJ McDonnell, Cinematographer Will Barratta, and Make-Up Effects Artist Robert Pendergraft.  It is a blast to listen to and definitely a must for fans of the film. There is also a cast commentary track again with Adam Green, BJ McDonnell and adding in Kane Hodder this time. Next up there are three featurettes covering everything in the production including, “Hatchet III: Behind The Scenes”, “Raising Kane” and “Swamp Fun”.

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Actors: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Emmanuelle Riva, Isabelle Huppert, Alexandre Tharaud, William Shimell
Directors: Michael Haneke
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 20, 2013
Run Time: 127 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

When it comes to Oscars, as much as I complain watching them I always find myself being compelled to watch the winning movies. This brings me to “Amour”, which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film this year. I had heard of “Amour” since it cracked the “Best Picture” category as well but I wasn’t that interested. The film itself is definitely what you expect from an award season film. It very engaging and gripped. Backed with some amazing performances, this is a must watch especially if you are a fan of foreign dramas.

Official Premise: Insightful. Original. Exquisite. Georges and Anne have known a lifetime of love within their intimate marriage. Though their bond has survived time’s test, it’s about to meet its greatest challenge. Acclaimed director Michael Haneke brings a performance tour-de-force to the screen in a film that exalts the beautiful, compassionate and courageous within us all.

Sony delivers a nice Blu-ray presentation with “Amour”. The 1080p transfer captures the beautiful cinematography in the film. I always think that French films have fantastic score for some reason, especially dramas. So that is no different here, “Amour” sounds great with its French DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The special features included are short but sweet. There is a behind-the-scenes look in “The Making of Amour” and there is also a Q & A with Director Michael Haneke.

Actors: Robert Redford, Brit Marling, Stanley Tucci, Nick Nolte, Chris Cooper
Directors: Robert Redford
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Run Time: 121 minutes

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

When I see Robert Redford in a film, I have to admit I am not immediately drawn in.  His films are usually not my cup of tea.  With “The Company You Keep”, he stepped behind the director’s chair again and along with himself packs in a very impressive cast including Shia LeBeouf, Julie Christie, Susan Sarandon, Chris Cooper, Nick Nolte, Terrence Howard, Stanley Tucci, Richard Jenkins, Anna Kendrick, Brit Marling, Sam Elliott and Jackie Evancho. There is no shortage of talent here at all.  The film itself is a political thriller that does keep your interest throughout and gets your on the edge of your chair. But it is also one of those films that you will see it once and probably never again.  So in short, it is forgettable, good but forgettable. I would recommend this as a renter just to see this cast together

Official Premise: Jim Grant (Robert Redford) is a public interest lawyer and single father raising his daughter in the tranquil suburbs of Albany, New York. Grant’s world is turned upside down when a brash young reporter (Shia LaBeouf) exposes his true identity as a former 1970s antiwar radical fugitive wanted for murder. After living for more than 30 years underground, Grant must now go on the run. With the FBI in hot pursuit, he sets off on a cross-country journey to track down the one person who can clear his name.

Sony delivered a fine Blu-ray overall, along with an Ultraviolet digital copy. The 1080p does a good job of framing the film’s tension. It is sharp and looks great. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 complents the same as well and works with the dialogue and the score. The special features included are decent as well.  There are two Behind-The-Scenes featurettes.  The first is called “The Movement””, with the cast/crew discussing the group formed, “The Weather Underground.” “The Script, Preparation and The Cast”” is just what it says it is, the cast chatting about the production and their roles. There is red carpet from New York premiere. Lastly, there is the “The Company You Keep” Press Conference with Robert Redford, Stanley Tucci, Brit Marling & Jackie Evancho, which we actually attended in person, click here to view.

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Actors: Michael Moriarty, Candy Clark, David Carradine
Directors: Larry Cohen
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: August 27, 2013
Run Time: 92 minutes

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

“Q: The Winged Serpent” is one of those little cult classics that came out of the 80’s, specifically 1982. Larry Cohen (“Maniac Copy”, “The Stuff”) was the director and really delivered a fun – cheesy – yet fun time here. It starred a decent cast as well including Michael Moriarty, David Carradine, Candy Clark and Richard Roundtree. I mean who couldn’t love a giant monster movie…that is what it all comes down to. It also packs some impressive stop-motion animation and a fun original story. I would recommend for any fan of genre for sure. Shout! Factory scores again!

Official Premise: It’s another monstrous day in New York City where window washers have their heads bitten off, topless sunbathers are plucked from rooftops, bloody body parts rain onto the streets and small-time crook Jimmy Quinn (Moriarty) discovers a humongous nest in the spire of The Chrysler Building. Meanwhile, an NYPD detective (Carradine) investigates a series of ritual sacrifice murders that may have unleashed a giant flying Aztec Serpent God into the skies of Manhattan. Its name is Quetzalcoatl, but just call it Q… that’s all you’ll have time to say before it tears you apart.

For a low-budget film that is over 30 years old, it looks pretty good on Blu-ray. Shout! Factory isn’t really know for delivering a guaranteed perfect 1080p transfer with each release but this one looks not bad. Plus it also works with the gritty 1980 New York, where it was shot. There is a DTS-HD Master Audio track, which sounds decent for the most part. The dialogue is low in certain scenes and too loud in other parts. They only special features included besides a theatrical trailer is a commentary track with Larry Cohen. I would have loved to see some creature featurettes as well.

Number of discs: 4
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 262 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I have to admit, I am a real sucker for a good detective story with mystery, twists and turns.  Thanks to Warner Bros. Home Entertainment they are bringing us four great films from the Charlie Chan Collection. The films included are “Shadows Over Chinatown”, “Docks of New Orleans”, “Shanghai Chest”, and “The Golden Eye” dating from 1946-1948″.  The character of Charlie Chan was created by writer Earl Derr Biggers dating back to 1923 and over 50 films featuring the character. If you are into classic sleuth films then this release is definitely for you.

These films have never-been-released and are making their DVD debut. They come in a large slipcase with four individual DVD case inside for each film. They are newly remastered for this release.  They are not perfect but especially for films nearing over 60 years old, they look stunning. Warner really gave these some love and it shows on the screen. I hope that Warner is planning to continue this collection because I would like to see further releases with these great films.

Official Premise: The most popular American films in 1930s China, the Chan movies were based on a fictional Chinese-American detective originally created by Earl Derr Biggers in 1923. Over four dozen films featuring Charlie Chan have been made since 1926. In 1931, the Fox Film Corporation cast Swedish actor Warner Oland as Chan in Charlie Chan Carries On; the film was a success, and Fox went on to produce 15 more Chan films with Oland in the title role.

Following Oland’s death, Scottish American actor Sidney Toler was cast as Chan; Toler made 22 Chan films, first for Fox and then for Monogram Studios. After Toler’s death, six more films were made, starring Roland Winters. The character has also been featured in several radio programs, two television shows and a number of comics.

Charlie Chan Collection is available on DVD August 6 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/111XNp4

Actors: Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Tye Sheridan, Jacob Lofland, Sam Shepard, Michael Shannon
Directors: Jeff Nichols
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 130 minutes

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

“Mud” was one of the first sleeper hits of 2013. It started small but built a lot of noise behind it. It is a sure to be cult classic in the near future. It is a very nice blend of coming-of-age and adventure film with some amazing performances lead by Matthew McConaughey. Normally I am a not a fan of Reese Witherspoon but she does an excellent job as well. Also it will be a big snub if Tye Sheridan doesn’t get any award noms for this role. If you want more cast, we still got Sam Shepard, Michael Shannon (aka Zod from “Man of Steel”), Joe Don Baker, Ray McKinnon and Sarah Paulson as well. Definitely recommend this!

Official Premise: Mud is a timeless adventure about two boys, Ellis (Sheridan) and his best friend Neckbone (Lofland), who find a mysterious man named Mud (McConaughey) hiding out on a deserted island in the Mississippi. Mud tells the boys fantastic stories about his life including how he once killed a man in Texas and now vengeful bounty hunters are after him. He says he is planning to meet and escape with the love of his life, Juniper (Witherspoon), who is waiting for him in town. Skeptical but intrigued, Ellis and Neckbone agree to help him. But it isn’t long until Mud’s tall-tales come to life and their small town is besieged by bounty hunters out for blood.

Lionsgate is releasing this film as a combo pack with Blu-ray + Digital Copy + UltraViolet. I feel that this should be the norm today and my preferred choice with releases. The 1080 transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 looks amazing. The locations where this film was shot look amazing and really stand out. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is amazing as well. It is subtle yet very effective for sure. The special features are decent but not spectacular. First we have an audio commentary track from director Jeff Nichols. Then we get four short featurettes, “A Personal Tale”, “The Arkansas Ensemble”, “Southern Authenticity” and “The Snake Pit”, which looks into the cast and the production.

Actors: Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon, Robin Williams, Katherine Heigl, Amanda Seyfried, Topher Grace
Directors: Justin Zackham
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lionsgate
DVD Release Date: August 13, 2013
Run Time: 89 minutes

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

The draw for me with “The Big Wedding” is easily the film’s cast. Ensemble is calling it lightly. Here’s the list Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon and Robin Williams along with Katherine Heigl, Amanda Seyfried and Topher Grace. Not to shabby huh? I am not a huge fan normally of situational comedies, like “Meet the Parents” etc. but I figured I would give it a chance. It is not perfect but it has a few good laugh out loud moments. I would recommend this as a renter but to be honest it is worth seeing just for the dynamic of this wonderful cast. Plus it is rated-R, so it has a little edge as well.

Official Premise: A charmingly modern family tries to survive a weekend wedding celebration that has the potential to become a full-blown family fiasco. To the amusement of their adult children and friends, long-divorced couple Don and Ellie Griffin (De Niro and Keaton) are once again forced to play the happy couple for the sake of their adopted son’s wedding after his ultraconservative biological mother unexpectedly decides to fly halfway across the world to attend.

The Blu-ray presentation from Lionsgate delivers as much as it can being a comedy on Blu-ray. It is being released just as a Blu-ray no combo pack or digital copy included. The 1080p transfer is clear and the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works with the film’s comedic jokes. There is only one special feature included on the Blu-ray, which is a little sad due to all the talent involved with this film. “Coordinating The Big Wedding” is a featurette on the film production and gives a short but decent insight into it with cast/crew.

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Actors: Billy Joel, Joey Lawrence, Robert Loggia, Cheech Marin, Dom DeLuise
Directors: Dan Hansen, George Scribner
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 74 minutes

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

“Oliver & Company” and I go way back.  Back in 1988, I begged my  folks to see the film in the theaters but ended up missing out (due to my little sister – and I have never let her live it down since, 25 years later – insert maniacal laugh!) So I had to wait till the 1996 re-release to finally see this film and loved it (of course). In today’s standards, it is not the best thing to ever come out of Disney’s animation studio but it is fun and has some great music. It does features a great and talent voice cast including Joey Lawrence, Billy Joel, Dom DeLuise, Cheech Marin, Bette Midler and Robert Loggia. To be honest, I enjoy watching this on high-def Blu-ray but like “The Sword and the Stone”, it was not really up to Disney Blu-ray standards. I would recommend for fans of the film and though crazy Disney fanatics.

Disney has been releasing all the animated classics in their library recently onto Blu-ray. Along with this, “The Sword in the Stone” (1963) and and “Robin Hood” (1973) were released as well. In fact after looking into it they should be coming to an end shortly with only fourteen more theatrically released Disney Animated Classics left with two more set for this year alone. Next up we have “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and “The Little Mermaid”.

Official Premise: Celebrate the 25th anniversary of a Disney classic with the stunning Blu-ray debut of Oliver And Company, featuring perfect picture and sound. Relive this charming animated adventure, packed with excitement, fun and unforgettable songs by Billy Joel, Bette Midler and Huey Lewis. In the heart of New York City, Oliver, a mischievous orphaned kitten, is befriended by Dodger, a carefree pooch and his ragtag family of misfit mutts. Life gets even better for Oliver when he is adopted by a lonely little girl named Jenny. But when tough guy Sykes and his Doberman sidekicks try to keep Jenny and Oliver apart, the spirited kitten and his newfound friends discover the meaning of courage and find a home where they truly belong.

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD but unlike “The Sword in the Stone” (1963) and and “Robin Hood” (1973) there is no digital copy included. I guess since this is only celebrating it’s 25th anniversary it didn’t deserve it. Who knows why. Similiar to “The Sword in the Stone”, this release didn’t really wow me. The 1080p transfer looks good in parts but terrible in others.  The colors well represented though, I just feel like they overdid it on the restoration.  This film was never perfect in terms of its animation and maybe they would have been better off leaving some of those endearing imperfections. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track does delivers with the dialogue, action and fun music from Billy Joel, Betty Midler and Huey Lewis.

The special features are ok but not really anniversary special. First off, we get a vintage behind-the-scenes look with “The Making of Oliver and Company”. There is another featurette called “Disney’s Animated Animals”, which talks about created our furry friends. There is also an alternate ending included. There is a sing-along mode for the film’s six fun songs. There is a bonus shorts including “Lend A Paw” and “Puss Café”. Lastly there is a TV spot, a theatrical trailer and re-release trailers.