Starring: Tara Strong, Ashleigh Ball, Andrea Libman, Tabitha St. Germain, Cathy Weseluck, Rebecca Shoichet
Directors: Jayson Thiessen
Rated TV-Y
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 72 minutes

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

I have to admit, love it or hate it “My Little Pony” is very popular since the TV series “Friendship is Magic” really took off with fans of all ages. The brand has never been popular and now Hasbro got even more and decided to expand in this universe. “My Little Pony: Equestria Girls” shows our favorite ponies being transformed in teenage girls. This gives Hasbro another opportunity to continue producing more toys, apparel, publishing and accessories for this franchise. I think this was a very smart idea. And to be honest the movie is quite fun, especially for young girls. My daughter enjoyed it quite a bit between the music and the bright colors. A must watch for any fan of the show, whether you are a young girl or even an adult you will enjoy this.

Official Premise: When Twilight Sparkle’s crown is stolen from the Crystal Empire, she pursues the thief, Sunset Shimmer, into an alternate world where she finds herself turned into…a teenage girl! To regain her crown and return to Equestria, Twilight must learn how to fit into this strange, new world and defeat Sunset Shimmer in a competition to become crowned Princess of the Fall Formal at Canterlot High. Luckily, she will have the assistance of Spike and five teenage girls who remind her of a certain group of ponies back home.

If you are a fan of the series, then you will be happy to know that this full-length movie follows the events of “Magical Mystery Cure”, which was the final episode of the third season of “Friendship is Magic”. So it continues the story line and holds us off until season four comes this November. I also like that it has a certain “Alice Through the Looking Glass” feel to it as well.  I noticed that from the moment I saw the box and it peaked my interest. Comparing this to the TV series, it is a little more mature since the ponies are turned into high school girls but it is nothing that a young girls will not be able to watch. Also the end monster is a little scary for younger kids.

Shout! Factory really has given a lot of love to the “My Little Pony” over the last few years. I also should point out that this is the first time that the ponies have been given a high-def Blu-ray release. So the 1080p transfer really shines (or should I say sparkles, maybe?). The colors are really sharp and the animation style looks fantastic. Like I mentioned there is some fun movie in the film with six new songs from Dan Ingram, but it is more pop music and quite different from the original series but that is a good thing also. The special features are also fun including a featurette called “Through The Mirror Of Equestria Girls”. There is karaoke versions of the songs in the film. There is an option to “Pony-fy Yourself” and lastly there is a Printable Movie Poster included.

Actors: Jonny Weston, Gattlin Griffith, Peter Holden, Musetta Vander, Kelcie Stranaha
Directors: Steven C. Miller
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Xlrator
Release Date: July 30, 2013
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

I have been a fan of Steven C. Miller’s films since I first saw “Automaton Transfusion” years ago. His latest projects like “The Aggression Scale” and “Silent Night” are showing him getting better and better as a director. Steven has a love for the classic horror scares and he set out to do that with “Under the Bed” and succeeds. The film has some nice jumps and also well shot. It is also feels very original and not like another tired low-budget horror film. The scale of the film feels quite large, which is another thing that I believe that Steve has mastered with his film. I would easily recommend this to any horrorhound and if you like it, be sure to also check out his other films as well.

Official Premise: Every child knows about the monster under the bed Neal Hausman’s mistake was trying to fight it. Neal (Jonny Weston, Chasing Mavericks) has returned from a two-year exile following his tragic attempt to defeat the monster, only to find his father ticking ever closer to a breakdown, a new stepmother who fears him, and his little brother Paul (Gattlin Griffith, Green Lantern, Changeling), terrorized by the same monster. While Neal and Paul work together to try and fight the nocturnal menace, their parents are taking desperate measures to get the family back to normal. With no support from their parents, the brothers have nothing to rely on but each other, and courage beyond belief.

The film also packs a pretty decent cast including Jonny Weston (“Chasing Mavericks”), Gattlin Griffith (“Green Lantern”) and Peter Holden (The Social Network). The Blu-ray itself looks sharp with its 1080p transfer and its audio track does well with the creepy score to set the scene for the jumps. The one part that I was the most upset with was there is zero special features included. I am seeing a bit of a trend with recent Xlrator releases and I hope that this doesn’t continue on this trend. I would have loved to see a commentary and behind-the-scenes featurettes.

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Actors: Joseph Kaufmann, Beverly Hope Atkinson
Directors: Ralph Bakshi
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 77 minutes

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

“Heavy Traffic” is writer-director Ralph Bakshi’s follow-up to his controversial animated adult film “Fritz the Cat”, which is a hard act to follow. It is quite an odd and spacey film, definitely something that came out of the 70’s for sure. It is definitely not for everyone but is still super entertaining for fans of Bakshi’s work and like most of his films it is chock full of sex and violence. Bakshi really has a unique visual style to his animated projects.  They are like nothing else that I have ever seen.  This is the first time that this film has ever been on Blu-ray, thanks to Shout! Factory. It is not the perfect release we are all hoping for after the fantastic recent release of Bakshi’s “Wizards” on Blu-ray but I would recommend for those hardcore animation fans.

Official Premise: Heavy Traffic, the second feature from writer/director Ralph Bakshi (Fritz the Cat), combines a quick-edit pace, a frenetic story line and an array of eye-popping animation and live-action styles. Michael, a young artist who lives with his neurotic mother and two-timing father, escapes the absurd and often ugly side of life on New York’s tough streets by satirizing its rich yet wacky characters in wildly entertaining cartoons. From the gruff homeless and wisecracking prostitutes to gun-toting gangsters and corrupt cops, Michael’s world becomes an outlandish kaleidoscope of shocking images and horrifying events that are either a testament of his wild imagination or a reminder of the strangeness of reality.

Shout! Factory is releasing “Heavy Traffic” on Blu-ray with a pretty decent 1080p transfer in 1.67:1 aspect ratio.  The film doesn’t look perfect but that is the feeling that I get from Bakshi’s films.  They are not perfect.  They are low budget and it looks as good as it can.  The mix of animation and live action is presented well and the colors are sharp. The audio track comes with an also decent  DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track.  It works for the dialogue and the film’s music. Doesn’t blow you away but does the trick. Unfortunately, there are zero special included to complement this Blu-ray release. I would have loved to seen Ralph Bakshi do up a commentary track on this release but I doubt he had any involvement at all.

Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: July 23, 2013
Run Time: 50 minutes

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

Anything related to shark, count me in.  With Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week” right around the corner, “Great White Shark – A Living Legend” arrives at the perfect time. This episode was originally filmed for “Natural World” on BBC. If you can’t get that from the cover art we get to go up close and personal one of our most feared predators in our oceans. I mean who doesn’t love shark.  I am absolutely fascinated and eat up anything I can get on these amazing creatures. My main concern is that this only runs 50-minutes but it is entertaining and there is a bit of knowledge shared here but nothing out of this world.  If would recommend this for hardcore shark fan. Come on in the water!

Official Premise: Get up close and personal with one of the most vicious predators of our oceans, the Great White Shark! We think of great whites as fearsome aquatic killers, but do we know them as well as we think? In this presentation from BBC’s acclaimed Natural History Unit, Mike Rutzen, the world’s foremost great white shark diver, follows great whites as they feed, at proximity never before achieved. Mike’s unique ability to communicate with them using his body language allows him to swim amongst them unscathed. Mike explores why occasionally attack people. He also challenges the view that their feeding is unstructured and frenzied, to prove instead that they obey the subtle rules of a complex form of social hierarchy.

Even though it is short, BBC still delivered a very nice Blu-ray presentation for “Great White Shark: A Living Legend”. The episode looks amazing with its 1080p high definition in 1.78.1 widescreen.  The colors are sharp and the detail is very impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also quite great. Since there is no action in this film, the score and music still delivers  a great surround experience and takes advantage of this track. In the special features department, there is only one extras included, called “Smart Sharks: Swimming With Roboshark”. This 50-minute documentary is narrated by David Attenborough and looks into the life sized mechanical shark designed by Andrew Sneath. This as a good companion to “Great White Shark – A Living Legend”.

Actors: Channing Tatum, Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, Ray Stevenson, Adrianne Palicki, Ray Park
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: July 30, 2013
Run Time: 110 minutes

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

I am an 80′s kid and I have and always will be a fan of “G.I. Joe”. The first film “G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra” was fun but a bit of a mess. “G.I. Joe: Retaliation” is a nice improvement, yet far from perfect. It is jam-packed with non-stop action and some great visuals. One problem that I had with the first film was how cartoony it looked. This film is must more realistic and the way they should have done “G.I. Joe” from the beginning. If you’ve seen the trailers then you will know that action stars Dwayne Johnson and Bruce Willis have joined the team and help to rescue this franchise. They both deliver in terms of amping up this film to a higher profile. Most importantly, they ditched Marlon Waynes from the first one, which was the worst casting ever. If you are looking for a fun and action-packed time, then check this sequel out. I am sure that we have not seen the end of this franchise. GO JOE!

“G.I. Joe: Retaliation” focuses around the team not only fighting their mortal enemy COBRA, but they are forced to contend with threats from within the government that jeopardize their very existence. The G.I. Joes get framed by Zartan, who disguises as the Commander in Chief (Jonathan Pryce), of stealing nuclear warheads. Due to this the elimination of the Joe’s are put in place by the fake president and it is up to Roadblock (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), Lady Jaye (Adrianne Palicki), Flint (D.J. Cotrona), Snake Eyes (Ray Park) and Jinx (Elodie Yung) to fight the Cobra Commander and put a holt on his plans for world domination.

Paramount is releasing this film as a Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD combo pack with an UltraViolet. In addition, this release will include a limited time offer to receive a FREE set of high-quality, collectible personalized dog tags. This film was delayed so it can be post-converted to 3D in order to follow the trend of recent releases. I would like to say that it works for the film but it is really doesn’t. There isn’t really much depth or wow factor added to film with this aspect. The 3D isn’t the worst that I have ever seen but it is not the best either. As much as it pains me to the say, the 2D version is actually much more clearer and is the preferred way to enjoy this film fully. Despite the 3D, the 1080p transfer is super clear and works well with non-stop action. When it comes to audio tracks, “G.I. Joe: Retaliation” will literally knock you on your ass with its Dolby TrueHD 7.1 track. It sounds amazing, period.

All of the special features appear on the 2D Blu-ray, there are no 3D extras here. First up we have an audio commentary track with director John M. Chu and producer Lorenzo Di Bonaventura, which delivers tons of great information about the production. Next up we have “G.I. Joe: Declassified”, which is an eight part series of featurettes. “Mission Briefing” looks into the production and design with director Jon M. Chu. “Deployment” takes us through the military aspect of the film with Military Advisor and ex Navy SEAL Harry Humphries. “Two Ninjas” looks into the Storm Shadow and Snake Eyes role in the film. “The Desert Attack” looks into filming the film’s critical sequence. ”Cobra Strikes” looks into the Cobra’s look and sets for his evilness. “The Lone Soldiers” looks into the history behind the series”. “The Monastery” looks into the creating the huge Storm Shadow-Snake Eyes fight. “Fort Sumter” talks about shooting at Fort Pike. Lastly there are three short deleted scenes.

Actors: Brittany Snow, Jeffrey Combs, Sasha Grey
Rated: Unrated
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
Release Date: July 9, 2013
Run Time: 93 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

Horror films recently have become more about grossing you out than actually scaring you. “Would You Rather” fits a into that mold but where the gore would be the film cuts away, which blows by mind. What this film does have is a good cast (with the exception of porn star Sasha Grey, who thinks that she is an actress now but reality check…she is not!). Jeffrey Combs is always brillant in anything he does and he was the main draw for me. John Heard , aka the dad from “Home Alone” pops in but does not stick along very long. Eddie Steeples from “My Name Is Earl” does a good job of crossing over from comedy. I found myself very bored with the rest of the film.  The idea starts off right but then gets repetitive, especially with 95% of the film takes place at a table. Definitely do not recommend for any horror fan.

Official Premise: What would you do if a millionaire offered you a chance to solve all your life’s problems? After the tragic death of her parents, Iris (Brittany Snow, Pitch Perfect, John Tucker Must Die) is desperate to make ends meet while caring for her terminally ill younger brother. When seemingly philanthropic aristocrat Shepard Lambrick (Jeffrey Combs, Re-Animator, Masters of Horror) expresses an interest in helping her by inviting her to an exclusive dinner party that offers the chance at untold riches, Iris finds herself in a group of similarly desperate individuals all looking to make some easy money. But the guests soon find themselves trapped in Lambrick’s mansion and forced to play a sadistic parlor game of Would You Rather, where one is faced with two grim, violent choices and where only the winner will get out alive. As the game progresses, Iris must decide how far she will go to save her brother – and herself.

“Would You Rather” looks good enough on Blu-ray.  It’s 1080p transfer goes break any new ground but delivers the film clear and sharp. This would work either way on DVD or Blu-ray. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works with the dialogue and the screaming, which there is a bit of. There is not much in the way of special features included.  There is a commentary track with the director David Guy Levy and writer Stefften Schlachtenhaufen (what a name). Lastly there is a poster gallery and trailer included.

Starring: Bing Crosby, Donald O’Connor, Jeanmaire, Mitzi Gaynor
Directed: Robert Lewis
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Paramount (Pmt)
DVD Release Date: June 25, 2013
Running Time: 106 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

How can you saw now to Bing Crosby and Donald O’Connor teaming up on a picture. Well, if you are looking for a great musical, this might not be the one. I didn’t know this at the time but this is a remake of a Broadway play, which was turned into a movie in 1936 and also go starred Bing Crosby. Bing and Donald we on par for sure but the wife and I really weren’t digging the combo with Jeanmaire and Mitzi Gaynor. On the positive side, the music is great and there is some fun dance choreographed. May not be my favorite of Bing’s films but it could be yours so I will leave it up to you.

Official Premise: Crosby plays a Broadway star teamed up with young TV hotshot Donald O’Connor. Vacationing separately in Europe and needing a leading lady for their upcoming show, each signs a prospect–Crosby snaps up Mitzi Gaynor (at her perkiest) and O’Connor finds Jeanmaire, a French dancer. The show can only have one female star, so when the quartet crosses paths on the ocean liner back to the U.S., sparks will fly. Or not–this Paramount musical lacks any definable zip, from the sleepy dialogue to the listless camera. The capable Nick Castle staged the musical sequences, although Jeanmaire’s numbers were choreographed by Roland Petit (also her husband). The Porter songs are half-heartedly rendered, although O’Connor and Gaynor get some oomph into “It’s De-Lovely.” Der Bingle was born to burble “Blow, Gabriel, Blow,” but it’s too little, too late.

Whether or not I like the film, Warner Archive again delivers these classics on DVD. For a film made in 1956, it looks pretty great. I do not see listed if Warner Archive restored this film for the release but I was impressed. It comes with it’s original aspect ratio of 1.66:1.  It also comes with a Dolby Digital 2.0 track, which is also a bit of a step up from previous Warner Archive made-to-order DVD releases.  Since this film is a musical, the upgraded audio track definitely benefits this release. There is no special features included on this DVD.

Actors: Saoirse Ronan, Jake Abel, Max Irons, Boyd Holbrook, Frances Fisher
Directors: Andrew Niccol
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: July 9, 2013
Run Time: 125 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

As a guy, I should hate Stephenie Meyer for giving the world “Twilight” and ruining vampires. But I honestly do not have a problem with those films, in fact I quite enjoy them (except “Breaking Dawn: Part 1”). I was intriguer by “The Host” since it has that sci-fi futuristic angle but I had no idea what I got myself into. This film is a saggy, bloated two hour mess. The film looked ok in the beginning talking about aliens etc and then it just fell into this terribly boring love triangle story.  I thank God for “Angry Birds” since it saved me from turning this film off after the first 30 minutes.  Do not recommend for any men to watch this film and women maybe if they have had a proper nap and looking for trash to watch.

Official Premise: From Stephenie Meyer, the creator of the worldwide phenomenon The Twilight Saga, comes this daring and romantic thriller based on The New York Times #1 bestselling novel. When an unseen enemy threatens mankind by taking over humans’ bodies and erasing their minds, Melanie Stryder (Saoirse Ronan) risks everything to protect the people she cares about most, proving that love can conquer all in a dangerous new world. The Host is a passionate and powerful epic love story co-starring Diane Kruger, Jake Abel, Frances Fisher, Max Irons and William Hurt.

Despite being a terrible film, “The Host” does have a nice 1080p transfer. Besides the film shot in the city, the rest of the film is just in the desert so there is nothing spectacular about the scenery.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works for the dialogue and the one or two boring action scenes. Universal delivered this release as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy + UltraViolet. The special features are limp just like the film.  There is an audio commentary track with Author/producer Stephenie Meyer, screenwriter/director Andrew Niccol and producer Nick Wechsler, which is more boring than the film. There are four short meaningless deleted scenes.  There is a very short behind-the-scenes look with “Bringing The Host to Life”. Lastly there is a “Seeker PSA”

Starring: Don Johnson, Susanne Benton, Jason Robards, Tim McIntire (I), Helene Winston, Charles McGraw
Director: L.Q. Jones
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

“A Boy and His Dog” (aka Apocalypse 2024) is one crazy movie, based on a 1969 short science fiction story by author Harlan Ellison. My wife, in fact, was was taken back by the tagline on the cover “an R rated, rather kinky tale of survival”. From right there, I am immediately interested in watching this.  In fact the film has developed quite the cult following over the years, but I have to admit I have never seen it prior to this release. Did I mention it stars Don Johnson? That’s right Sonny from “Miami Vice”! This film is very unique (to put it nicely) and is definitely not for everyone but it will certainly keep you entertained for it’s 90 minutes, that’s for sure. What a trip!

Official Premise: World War IV lasted only five days but has ravaged Earth, leaving its survivors to battle for food, shelter and companionship in a post-atomic wasteland. This celebrated sci-fi tale follows the exploits of a young man, Vic (Don Johnson), and his sardonic telepathic dog, Blood, as they struggle through the barren wilderness in search of food and women. In the midst of their meager existence, Vic and Blood encounter Quilla June (Susanne Benton), a dubious young woman who lures them into a surreal city deep beneath the earth’s surface. Initially elated to find a colony of survivors, Vic and Blood quickly learn this city is not what it seems.

Shout Factory has released this film with a fantastic brand new 1080p widescreen transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1.  The DTS-HD Master Audio Mono though is not the greatest. The dialogue is a little muted but overall it does the job.  The Collector’s Edition comes with a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD. It also features a reversible wrap with collectible key art.  The special features are good but nothing special. Hardcore fans will enjoy the brand new featurette “In Conversation: Harlan Ellison And L.Q. Jones”.  There is a commentary By Director L.Q. Jones, Director of Photography John Arthur Morrill and critic Charles Champlin and lastly there are some Vintage Radio Spots.

Actors: James Drury, Doug McClure, John McIntire, Jeanette Nolan, Sara Lane
Number of discs: 9
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Shout! Factory / Timeless Media
DVD Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 1820 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“The Virginian” is a rare thing in today’s time. It was an American Western television series, which are not common today. It is the third longest running western to grace our television following “Bonanza” at fourteen seasons and “Gunsmoke” at twenty seasons. It was also filmed in color and was television’s first 90-minute western series. The stellar cast from this season includes James Drury, Doug McClure, John McIntire, Jeanette Nolan and Sara Lane. If you love Westerns, then this is the show for you to watch! The last of a dying breed.

This DVD contains 24 full color episodes from the eight and final season (under the title of “The Virginian), which were fully restored and digitally remastered. In season 9, which is actually the last season of this show, the show’s title was changed to “The Men from Shiloh” and the entire feel of the series was completely redesigned. Shout! Factory/Timeless Media also delivered this DVD release within a very sharp collectible embossed tin. The episodes look good for their age and they gave this show the respect that it surely deserves.

Official Premise: Owen Wister’s 1902 western novel The Virginian was one of the first great novels of the American West. Set in the semi-mythical town of Medicine Bow, Wyoming in the 1890s, it chronicled the lives and relationships of the people who came west and settled the wild land. The Virginian was the first 90-minute television western, airing in prime time on NBC from 1962-1971. The eighth and final season of The Virginian was followed by a single season of The Men From Shiloh, a show featuring the same characters and setting but told in a new and different format.

Besides the main cast this series was packed with great guest stars including: Art Carney (“The Honeymooners”), Neville Brand (“Laredo”), Desi Arnaz (“I Love Lucy”), Edgar Buchanan (“Petticoat Junction”), Burgess Meredith (“Rocky”) and Alan Hale, Jr. (“Gilligan’s Island”). Season 8 marked the return of actors like William Shatner (“Star Trek”) and Joan Crawford as well. This show definitely represented a different time in television, where everything wasn’t just crappy repetitive reality shows. You would be able to watch TV and actually see great performances from great actors.

Voices: Carlos McCullers, Pat Carroll, Cinda Adams, Chris Andrew Ciulla, Dino Andrade, Isabelle Fuhrman and Wesley Johnny
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Vivendi Entertainment
DVD Release Date: July 9, 2013
Run Time: 92 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
3D: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

“A Turtle’s Tale 2: Sammy’s Escape from Paradise” is the sequel to the very cute animated “Sammy’s Adventures: The Secret Passage” (aka “A Turtle’s Tale: The Adventures of Sammy”).  The film is not perfect but it was fun.  Same applies for the sequel.  At least Vivendi Entertainment is releasing this combo pack including a DVD, Blu-Ray and (hooray) 3D Blu-Ray. The first film was not released on 3D Blu-ray.  The 3D really adds a nice topping to this film and kids should definitely enjoy it. A lot of great in-your-face moments and family fun to be had here.

When Sammy and Ray find themselves trapped in The Tank, an underwater restaurant/aquarium, they must hatch a plan to escape and reunite with their grandkids Ricky and Ella. But they’ll have to get past Big D and his dopey thugs first. With the help of some unlikely friends, Sammy and Ray find that when you work together anything is possible!

The 1080p transfer is really clear and sharp. The colors are really vibrant and definitely stand out.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track sounds great, especially with the music. Daris Rucker delivers the tunes and they are some fun songs.  There are no additional special features included with this release.  But to be completely honest, I would rather trade a few measly special features to have the 3D Blu-ray option. It is really worth the price of the Blu-ray, no question.

Actors: Sylvester Stallone, Sung Kang, Sarah Shahi, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Christian Slater
Directors: Walter Hill
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 92 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

Some have said that Sylvester Stallone has definitely has passed his prime, but the nearing 70 year old actor has not given up with releasing ass-kicking action films. “The Expendables” series are pretty kick ass and “Bullet To The Head” is another example that this aging action star still has what it takes. Besides Stallone himself, the supporting cast is also quite impressive including Jason Momoa (“Conan The Barbarian”, “Game of Thrones”), Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (TV’s “Oz”, “Lost”), Sung Kang (“Fast & Furious”) and Christian Slater (“True Romance”). So there is no shortage of talent here. If you are looking for some brainless in-your-face action, this will definitely do the trick.

Official Premise: After almost a decade away from the big screen, veteran film director Walter Hill (The Warriors, 48Hrs) is back at the helm with the action thriller, Bullet to the Head. Legendary movie star Sylvester Stallone plays Jimmy Bobo, a jaded hit man who reluctantly forms an alliance with a cop in order to exact revenge on the mercenary who murdered their respective partners. Full of non-stop explosive action, thrilling fight scenes and classic one-liners, Bullet to the Head is based on Alexis Nolent’s graphic novel of the same name.

Warner Brothers is releasing this film with their usual combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD and Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The 1080p transfer really captures the gritty feel of the film itself and yet still looks sharp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works well the jam-packed action scenes and the film’s score which was composed by Steve Mazzaro and produced by Hans Zimmer. Unforuntely, the special features are a major let down for this release. We only get onef featurette called “Bullet to the Head: Mayhem Inc.” It is basically just a promo piece with Stallone talking about his training. I would have loved to seen a commentary track from Walter Hill or Stallone.

Bullet to the Head is available on Blu-Ray 7/16/2013 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/15C6ExZ

Actors: Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., Julie Benz
Director: Troy Duffy
Rated: R (Restricted) / Unrated
Studio: Sony Pictures
DVD Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 117 / 144 minutes

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

I remember I rented the first “The Boondock Saints” on VHS when it was a ‘Blockbuster Exclusive’ rental. This was almost 15 years ago and before it was this cult phenomenon. When there was word that “The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day” was being made 10 years after the first, I think it made every fan jump up and down (including myself). Well it’s been 4 years since this sequel was released and we can get excited again since Writer/Director Troy Duffy’s is releasing a new Director’s Cut which features 27 Minutes of Never-Before-Seen Extended Footage. There is a longer opening sequence, a lengthened fantasy sequence and an extended elevator sequence leading up to the Prudential shoot-out. So with the director’s cut the running time gets bumped up to 144 minutes and it is AMAZING!

“The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day” is a a rare feat where it actually tops the original. This sequel to back the original cast, Including Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus and Billy Connolly along with new additions including Clifton Collins Jr., Julie Benz, Peter Fonda and Judd Nelson. I do not remember a more explosive theatrical experience then when I saw this film in theaters. I know fans have been bugging writer/director Troy Duffy to do a third film and I really hope that happens one day. I am not sure why this release is coming now, if not to capitalize on Norman Reedus’ insane fandom from “The Walking Dead”, but either way I am excited and it is a must for any fan of this series!

Official Premise: From Troy Duffy, writer and director of The Boondock Saints, comes the much anticipated sequel to the tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s Dexter) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!

The 1080p transfer still looks great like the past releases, especially with the new footage. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track is killer as well with the non-stop action. The line “Ding Ding Motherfucka! Ding Dong!” is presented perfectly. The real catch for this release is that it comes as a two-Disc Blu-ray combo pack with both the Theatrical and Director’s Cut versions. This release is currently set as a Best Buy exclusive release, so fans need to be sure to pick this up for sure.

The special features are in-line with the past Blu-ray releases. We get a pair of audio commentary tracks from cast and crew. There are two short deleted scenes. Then there are seven featurettes including “Unprecedented Access: Behind the Scenes”, “Billy Connolly and Troy Duffy: Unedited”, “The Cast Confesses: Secrets From the Set”, “Inside the Vault: The Weapons”, “‘The Boondock Saints’ Hit Comic-Con”, “Saints Off Script” and “Back to Boondock”. All these special features are must see for any fan of the series but they are not anything new for this release. But don’t forget that this new release contains the pretty sweet director’s cut of the film, so that is enough for me!

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Rated: TV-14
Studio: Discovery Channel
DVD Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 301 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Shark Week is my favorite week of the year no question.  I set my DVR and tape not only the new specials but also the classic ones as well. Discovery Channel has been running it for over 25 years now and it only gets better and better each year.  “Shark Week: Fins of Fury” delivers some of the best special from the 2012 season.  If you are a fan of Shark Week, then this release should be a must purchase, especially to get you ready for this years great line-up!

Disc one contains the following episodes are included “Great White Invasion”, which focuses on the routines of sharks seen around the waters in California, Australia and South Africa. “Jaws Comes Home” looks into sharks returning to the same waters where the film “Jaws” was made. “Rogue Sharks” debates the idea of sharking being territorial (if you’ve seen “Jaws” you will know this debate).

Disc two includes the rest of the episodes including “Summer of the Shark”, investigates Australia’s recent attacks. “Killer Sharks” looks into the 1957 holiday shark attacks in South Africa. “How Sharks Hunt” features Dave and Cody of “Dual Survival” as they discuss the habits of great whites. Lastly, “Shark City” features Andy Samberg (“SNL”) as he takes us on a tour of the protected waters of the Bahamas.

I loved all these episodes from latest year but the major complaint I had was Andy Samberg.  Man, was that a mistake.  Out of anyone to be the Chief Shark Officer, why would they choose him.  I understand they want to make it fun for the week of episodes but I was not feeling him as a host at all.  Hopefully they will fix that for the 2013 season.  Until then, this Blu-ray is a great way to catch up on last year’s greats (excluding “Shark City”).

Starring: Jane Levy, Shiloh Fernandez, Jessica Lucas, Lou Taylor Pucci, Elizabeth Blackmore
Director: Fede Alvarez
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to remakes, they are always endless debates about the originals and how they shouldn’t be touched.  The original “Evil Dead” is one of my favorite horror films and introduced me to the marvel of Bruce Campbell.  When I heard that there was going to be an “Evil Dead” remake, I was extremely nervous since I feared, like everyone else, that they would ruin it.  Well, goddamn, I will just say that I was absolutely blown away. You know that the original is the original and that is that but this new reboot really packs a major punch. What makes this great is that it has the blessing of Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell, which makes this all the sweeter.  If you are a hardcore fan of the original stay through the credits for a little surprise. Damn, the credit this film is a crazy ride and a ton of fun!

The film is fast, angry and fucking intense.  I do not think that I had one nail left on my fingers after viewing this film.  I watched this film with my wife in the kitchen and she was scared just listening to the film’s events from the other room.  I thought that Fede Alvarez did an absolutely amazing job on this and I can’t see where he takes this franchise next.  I read his report from WonderCon that he is planning to link the original series with Ash with the reboot’s lead Mia in a third “Evil Dead” after his planned “Evil Dead 2” and Sam Raimi’s supposed sequel of “Army of Darkness”.  All I have to say is “Groovy”!

Official Premise: A secluded cabin. An ancient curse. An unrelenting evil. Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell reunite to present a genuinely terrifying re-imagining of their original horror masterpiece. Five young friends have found the mysterious and fiercely powerful Book of the Dead. Unable to resist its temptation, they release a violent demon on a blood-thirsty quest to possess them all. Who will be left to fight for their survival and defeat this unearthly force of murderous carnage?

Sony delivered this film with an amazing 1080p transfer.  The color red is particularly used a lot in this film 😉 When you think the gore couldn’t get any more intense…it does! Even being a horrorhound myself, I found myself looking away a little as well. So damn, they really did a great job there.  I even read that this was trimmed a little to avoid NC-17, so I could only imagine where it was taken from.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is another thing of beauty. Roque Baños’ score is easily one of my favorite horror scores…ever! It literally had me on the edge of my chair.

Along with the Blu-ray, there is also a Digital HD Ultraviolet copy included. The rest of the special features are pretty amazing. There is an audio commentary with actors Jane Levy, Lou Taylor Pucci, and Jessica Lucas; director Fede Alvarez; and writer Rodo Sayagues.  It is pretty awesome for any fan of the film. There are four featurettes including “Directing the Dead” showcases Fede Alvarez’s taking on this daunting task. “Evil Dead the Reboot” has a chat with Rob Tapert, Bruce Campbell, Fede Alvarez, Rodo Sayagues, Jane Levy, and J.R. Young discuss the original film and the remake. “Making Life Difficult” has Jane Levy and Fede Alvarez chats about the difficult role. “Unleashing the Evil Force” looks at the new Book of the Dead. Lastly “Being Mia” has Jane Levy doing a video diary about her character.