Starring: Elijah Wood, Jason Gann
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 286 minutes

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

After I was exposed to the first season of this show, which I watched straight through in one day, I was super excited for the second season. I have to admit though, I was a little let down. When I interviewed Jason Gann (read here), he said the second season was a different, a little darker but I feel it lost a little bit from the first season. Don’t get me wrong it is still pretty funny and completely out-there.  I have a feeling after interviewing Elijah Wood (read here) for season three that it is coming back with a vengeance.  If you haven’t seen this show, I would recommend checking out the first season before you just into this one but it is still worth checking out.

Official Premise: Elijah Wood and Jason Gann return for another fearlessly funny season of Wilfred…the story of a dog and his man. Following the first season’s cliff-hanger finale, Season Two finds Ryan making a fresh start with a real job and a new girlfriend. But with Wilfred’s help, Ryan discovers he still has a lot to learn about life, including ‘squishy’ viral videos and the ongoing cuteness war between dogs and babies. Get your paws on Season Two — with a shocking season-ending revelation that will change everything.

The Blu-ray presentation is impressive for this season, it is on par with the first season.  As this show is a straight forward black comedy, the 1080p transfer doesn’t blow you away but looks great. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which works with the jokes and hilarious dialogue. The special features are a little light even less than the first season Blu-ray.  We get some decent deleted scenes and a blooper reel.  There are is a new short called “Stay” and a featurette “News at Noon with Jenna”.  There is also a fun “Wilfred/Ryan Mash-up” included.  Decent extras but I would have loved to see more specifically with commentary tracks, which I asked for in my review for the first season Blu-ray review (read here).  Oh well, I can hope for season three 😉

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Actors: Donald Sutherland, George Lazenby, Bill Bixby
Directors: John Landis
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: July 2, 2013
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

Ah, a real spoof. “The Kentucky Fried Movie” is a one of the original spoof before the genre went sour after the “Scary Movie” madness and its spin-offs. Before they hit it big with “Airplane”, the team of David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker delivered this very funny (yet a little dated today) spoof. This film is also directed by the then newcower John Landis (“The Blues Brothers”, “An American Werewolf in London”). Even though the film hasn’t really held up over the years, it still has some  classic funny laughs and fans should enjoy this upgrade from their old VHS and DVD copies.

Official Premise: “The Kentucky Fried Movie” features a lewd, loosely connected collection of skits that spoof blaxploitation films, news shows, porno movies, TV commercials, kung fu flicks and more! This one-of-a-kind film features over 22 gut-bustingly hilarious segments including “Cleopatra Schwartz,” “The Wonderful World Of Sex,” “Catholic High School Girls In Trouble,” “A Fistful Of Yen,” and more!

“”he Kentucky Fried Movie” looks pretty good (not amazing) with its 1080p transfer in 1.85:1 aspect ratio.  But if you remember this film you would know that it was never really made high quality.  Still though the aging comedy still looks good in high-def.  Included for audio is the original DTS-HD Master Audio Mono, fans of the film will enjoy that treat and it works for the most part as well. The Blu-ray extras are good but missing some extras from previously releases. There is a commentary track with director John Landis, writers Jerry Zucker, David Zucker, Jim Abrahams and producer Robert K. Weiss, which is a total laugh fest and easily worth the purchase. “A Conversation With David and Jerry Zucker ” is a chat with the film’s writers on the production and legacy. Lastly there is the Original Trailer included.

Actors: Dee Wallace Stone, Patrick Macnee, Dennis Dugan, Christopher Stone, Belinda Belaski
Directors: Joe Dante
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to “The Howling” it is considered one of the greatest werewolf films. It also features on of the best transformation scenes during its time, along with “An American Werewolf in London”. The practical effects are nothing short of amazing and a must see if you have never experienced it. I miss these days where everything wasn’t CGI.  Believe it or not this film also spawned seven sequels a crappy high school reboot. “The Howling” stars the amazing and lovely Dee Wallace and if you grew up with this film, what guy didn’t have a crush on Elisabeth Brooks? Am I right? Horrorhounds should be very excited with this release and just wait to you see the special features!

Official Premise: From the director of “Gremlins” and “Piranha” comes the ultimate masterpiece of primal terror. Severely traumatized by a near-fatal encounter with a serial killer, TV newscaster Karen White (Dee Wallace) takes time off at a secluded retreat called “The Colony.” But when, after nights of being tormented by bestial, bloodcurdling cries, Karen ventures into the woods seeking answers, she makes a terrifying discovery. Now she must fight not only for her life but for her soul!

Unlike with the recent “Lifeforce” transfer approved and worked on by Tobe Hopper himself, Scream Factory packed the 1080p transfer in 1.86:1 from previously released European Blu-ray. Don’t get me wrong it is still pretty sharp and looks great. “The Howling” includes a brand new DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track along with the original mono track as a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. I have to admit, the 5.1 track is quite epic, especially with the transformation scenes. Pino Donaggio’s score also is complemented very well. I was a little upset that this “Collector’s Edition” is Blu-ray only unlike the recent “Lifeforce” Blu-ray which is a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. But they make it up with their amazing special features.

There are tons of speicWith “Howlings Eternal with Steven A. Lane” we get some back story from the executive producer. “Cut to Shreds with Editor Mark Goldblatt” gives us the scare techniques used in the film. “Interview with Co-writer Terrence Winkless” gets some insight on the film’s writting process. “Horror’s Hallowed Ground: A Look at the Film’s Locations” is hosted by Sean Clark as he tours the film’s shooting locations. “Making a Monster Movie: Inside The Howling” is a cool behind-the-scenes vintage featurette. “Interview with Stop Motion Animator David Allen” is a look into the special effects. “Unleashing the Beast – The Making of The Howling” is an in-depth feature look into werewolf mythology.

Next up are the commentary tracks, which there are two included. The first is with director Joe Dante, Dee Wallace, Christopher Stone and Robert Picardo. It is not a new track but still great to hear Christopher Stone again (R.I.P). The next audio commentary is with author Gary Brandner, which is a new commentary hosted by Red Shirt Productions’ Michael Felsher. I was not a big fan of this track and definitely still prefer the first over it. Lastly included there are a few Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary, some Outtakes, a Theatrical Trailer and a Photo Gallery included.

Actors: Steve Railsback, Peter Firth, Frank Finlay, Mathilda May, Patrick Stewart
Directors: Tobe Hooper
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 101 / 116 minutes

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

Based on Colin Wilson’s novel “The Space Vampires”, “Lifeforce” is Tobe Hopper’s first shot a big-budget film. For the most part, the film is visually amazing and still holds up, thanks to Academy Awardwinner John Dykstra (1977 Best Visual Effects, “Star Wars”). Fans can rejoice that this new Blu-ray transfer was actually overseen by Hooper himself, which is pretty cool (more on that below). It also stars the smoking hot, Mathilda May, who looks amazing in HD, especially she is naked for the majority of the film. The final act of “Lifeforce” is where the film really looses me but overall it still holds up for the most part. Also This Blu-ray contains both the theatrical cut and the director approved extended cut. Horrorhounds and fans of this film should be thrilled with this release. Did I mention that Mathilda May is very easy on the eyes?

Official Premise: A mission to investigate Halley’s Comet discovers an even stranger phenomenon: an alien spacecraft! Following a deadly confrontation, the aliens arrive on Earth, where their seductive leader begins a terrifying campaign to drain the lifeforce of everyone she encounters. Her victims, in turn, continue the cycle, and soon the entire planet is in mortal danger. And when the mission’s sole survivor (Steve Railsback) sets out to destroy her, he comes face to face with the most charming – and horrifying – being he’s ever known. Will he be able to destroy the lovely vampiress…or will he become yet another victim of her fatal charm.

Scream Factory delivered this film with a very sharp and clever 1080p transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1. Like I said above, Hooper oversaw this restoration and high definition transfer upgrade. He also states in the commentary track that he personally worked on the color timing in order to get it to his original vision. “Lifeforce” features two audio tracks, a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 tracks. Henry Mancini’s kick-ass score, though only in whole on the director’s cut. The theatrical release cut differs with cutting out some of the erotic content and also some slight differences in the music. Also the theatrical cut only packs a pretty weak Dolby Digital 5.1 track.

The special features are equally as impressive as the Blu-ray transfer. There is a commentary with Director Tobe Hooper, moderated Tim Sullivan (director of “2001 Maniacs”). Highly recommended for any fan of this film. There is another commentary track with Make-Up Effects Designer Nick Maley and hosted by Michael Felcher, decent but doesn’t compare to the first. “Dangerous Beauty with Mathilda May” is a great interview with the still stunning actress. “Space Vampires in London with Tobe Hooper” is a feature focusing on the novel. “Carlsen’s Curse with Steve Railsback” has the actor looking into the film. Lastly there is a Vintage Making of Lifeforce, Theatrical Trailers, TV Spot and a Still Gallery included.

Actors: Kirsten Dunst, Jim Sturgess, Timothy Spall
Directors: Juan Solanas
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Millennium Entertainment
Release Date: June 25, 2013
Run Time: 103 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3D: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am sucker for anything sci-fi and set in an alternate or futuristic reality.  When I read the premise for “Upside Down”, I was instantly hooked.  I thought it was  extremely originally, clever and very thought provoking.  Unfortunately, these kinds of films are not very marketable to the mass. As always Millennium Entertainment has stood up and given this film a proper release.  I have to admit, I was hoping it was going to be good but I thought it was actually pretty amazing. Definitely one of the most visually amazing films I have seen this year! I found myself very engaged with the film, its characters and got swept into the upside down world that was created within the film.  Highly recommend seeing this, especially in 3D!

Our leads, Kirsten Dunst and Jim Sturgess, give great performances, especially Sturgess who really let’s it all out (like usual) for this role. He has been on my radar since “Across the Universe” and has consistently impressed me especially last year with “Cloud Atlas”. The two leads have great chemistry between each other. Since the film is about their forbidden romance, the two of them makes it feel very believable and has your routing for their success. Timothy Spall, who is best known for his role of Peter Pettigrew in “Harry Potter” series is also equally awesome as well in his supporting yet important role..

“Upside Down” talks place in an alternate universe where two intertwined worlds not only exist but also have opposite gravities. Adam (Sturgess), who comes from the lower (class) end of the world, finds the girl of his dreams, Eden, but she is upside down from him. Get it Adam and Eve? After an event happens and they lose touch for 10 years, Adam tries to find a way to win her back even if she is practically in a different world.  The question is posed to our two lovers… “what if love was stronger than gravity?”

Millennium Entertainment  is releasing this film in a 3D + 2D Blu-ray & DVD combo.  I am psyched to see them give this film a 3D Blu-ray release since it is a very visual film and it really lends a lot to the extra dimension. In fact this wasn’t even released theatrical in 3D, which I believe was big mistake. There is a lot of great extras depth added to this film. When I was watching this film I actually believed that I was in this world.  When the world’s turned upside down, I felt like I should be turning my head around. I also couldn’t help but relating back to “Oz The Great and Powerful” which cost $150 million more than this film and looked completely fake as shit.  These visuals were absolutely amazing and deserve the attention.

In terms of quality “Upside Down” also looks great in 2D but just misses the opportunity for the great added depth and visual effect. The 1080p transfers are very impressive.  The 3D transfer tends to feel a little darker but I feel that it only added to the blue-hued futurstic world. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track is nothing short of epic. I kept thinking to myself when I was watching this film, “who the hell scored this?”, since the scores feels so big. Kudos to Benoît Charest, who also composed “The Triplets of Belleville”. His score is well represented on this Blu-ray.

The special features are quite impressive like the film.  They are also all available in 3D, which is not necessary for their context but still neat.  “The Making Of” is a great look into the production, which is very well done and a must watch if you liked the film. There are a few short Deleted Scenes included and an storyboarded alternate opening, called “History of the World”. Sticking with storyboards, there are about two dozen conceptual drawings including as well as storyboard  from the film’s finale and a few others. Since the film is very visual there are also a new previz shots for the Sage Mountain sequence, the Office and lastly the Final Shot – all with commentary from Juan Solanas takes viewers throughout he process of making a shot.

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Actors: Ed Harris, David Duchovny, William Fichtner
Directors: Todd Robinson
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: June 25, 2013
Run Time: 98 minutes

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

Who doesn’t love a good submarine thriller? It has been a while since we had a great one, possibly “U-571”.  “Phantom” is not perfect but it does star four-time Academy Award nominee Ed Harris and Golden Globe winner David Duchovny and they are great together. I am surprised that this film didn’t get more exposure based on the cast alone. It was also shot on an actual decommissioned Soviet submarine, which gets some points for authenticity from me. It may not rank up there with “Das Boot” or “The Hunt for Red October” but it does deliver some decent underwater war action and is worth at least a rental for sure. Also another recent good sub project is the short-lived TV series “Last Resort”, which was just released on DVD.

Official Premise: At the height of the cold war, the world holds its breath when a Soviet submarine armed with nuclear missiles goes missing in the Pacific. On board the vessel, the battle-tested captain (Harris) and a rogue KGB agent (Duchovny) are waging a life-and-death game of cat and mouse. With enemy forces closing in and time running out, the captain fights to keep control with nuclear armageddon hanging in the balance.

20th Century Fox has been have a new trend with their combo pack including a Blu-ray and UltraViolet HD digital copy. The film is low budget but has a strong 1080p transfer presentation. It looks sharp, especially with the dark scenes and captures the isolation of being in the sub. The film’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 also delivers the tension and action quite well. I also dug the score quite a bit.  The special features are decent like the film itself. Starting with an audio commentary track with writer/director Todd Robinson and Ed Harris, not terribly over exciting but informative. “Facing the Apocalypse: Making Phantom” is a pretty decent behind-the-scenes look at the production. “The Real Phantom” features the director and historian Kenneth Sewell giving background on the story of the real K-129. “Jeff Rona: Scoring Phantom” is a featurette on the film’s score. Lastly there is music video for the song “An Ocean Away”.

Starring: Sam Neill, Li Lin Jin, Louis Corbett, Jordan Chan, Wang Ji, Robert Mammone
Director: Mario Andreacchio
Distributed by: Ketchup Entertainment
Release Date: June 18, 2013
MPAA Rating: PG
Run Time: 95 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

I have to admit plain and simple, I am a sucker for anything with Samn Neill.  But this is not really a not the Sam Neill show, as he just pops in for a few scenes. This family film is currently a Wal-Mart Exclusive until Aug 20, 2013.  As entertaining as the cover art looks though with the very pretty dragon, it is quite underwhelming.  The dragon special effects do look sharp but they are sparsely used like Sam Neill in the film. Kids might enjoy but parents be warned this is lame and bit of a bore.

Official Premise: Josh (Louis Corbett) and Ling (Li Lin Jin) thought they were in for a boring vacation with each of their parents (Sam Neill, Jurassic Park and Wang Ji) at an archaeological dig in China. It turns into an adventure of a lifetime when they discover a mournful dragon trapped deep inside a mystical temple. According to ancient legend, the dragon is missing its life force, a sacred pearl that is hidden away in a secret chamber. Josh and Ling must battle evil forces (and some very skeptical parents) in their heart-stopping journey to return the magical pearl to its rightful owner.

Ketchup Entertainment is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Vudu Digital Copy.  The film was shot by award-winning Australian DP, Geoffrey Simpson, so I was very impressed with the 1080p transfer. In fact the locations where the film were shot were the best part of watching this. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 tracks sounds good enough with the occasionally weak action scenes and decent score. Like the film itself, the special feature department is extremely lacking. We only get the film’s trailer here, so don’t expect much in the extra department.

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Created by: Seth Green, Matt Senreich
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Cartoon Network
Release Date: July 9, 2013
Run Time: 23 minutes

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

I will never forget the first time that I saw “Robot Chicken”. I can still watch the first episode and belly-laugh throughout. This Emmy Award winning show has come so far over the last 8 years and 120 episodes. In this latest special no superhero is spared and no one is safe. If you are a fan of this show then this is a no-brainer. But if you have seen this special on TV and wondering why would you purchase this Blu-ray for only a 23 minute episode…well the answer is to get the additional 2+ hours of bonus content! It is easily makes this Blu-ray worth the purchase!

Official Premise: The special, which boasts an all-star cast as well as characters Robot Chicken fans have grown to love, provides a unique take on some of the most iconic superheroes from the DC Comics universe – along with others whose powers can’t really be called “super.” So what happens when Robot Chicken and DC Comics collide — who will survive with their super-dignities intact? NOBODY! In Robot Chicken’s hands, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and even Mr. Banjo could end up dead or naked or both or neither.

Like most “Robot Chicken” specials, this one features an all-star cast including series co-creator and executive producer Seth Green as Batman, Robin and the put-upon Aquaman; Neil Patrick Harris as Two-Face; Alfred Molina as Lex Luthor; Nathan Fillion as the Green Lantern; Megan Fox as Lois Lane; series and special writer/voice talent Breckin Meyer as Superman, plus Abe Benrubi, Alex Borstein, Clare Grant, Tara Strong, series co-creator and executive producer Matthew Senreich, series co-head writer/co-executive producer Tom Root, series director Zeb Wells and Kevin Shinick as co-producer, writer and narrator. This special goes all out and it shows!

Like I said this release really shines with its special features. There are two hours of bonus content created by the special’s producers. We get tons of great deleted sketches and outtakes. There are both writers and actors commentary tracks for the special. ”The Making of Robot Chicken DC Comics Special” is a great behind-the-scenes look. “Robot Chicken DC Comics Special’s Aquaman Origin Story” is a fun look at the most hated DC character. “DC Entertainment Tour” is a cool look into the offices. Lastly there are “Stoopid Alter Egos” and “5.2 Questions” to the creators.

Actors: Andre Braugher, Scott Speedman, Daisy Betts, Camille De Pazzis, Dichen Lachman
Directors: Michael Offer
Number of discs: 3
Studio: Sony Pictures Entertainment
DVD Release Date: July 2, 2013
Run Time: 558 minutes

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

If you watch the pilot to “Last Resort”, this show will have you hooked. It packs a sharp cast lead by Andre Braugher and Scott Speedman with supporting cast including Dichen Lachman, Daisy Betts, Robert Patrick, Jessy Schram and Sahr Ngaujah. This show was unfortunately canned after its first 13 episodes but that actually worked out for the show better. Even though I would like to have seen more, the show really worked best as a 13-episode arc.  It was tight, sharp and delivered a nice ending. I can easily see myself re-watching this series in the near future. I would recommend this for anything that missed it when it aired on TV or definitely for fans of the show to enjoy it again, plus this DVD is jam packed with great extras.

Official Premise: The U.S. ballistic submarine Colorado sits 500 feet below the Indian Ocean when orders come in to fire nuclear missiles at Pakistan. Captain Marcus Chaplin (Braugher) and XO Sam Kendal (Speedman), both question the legitimacy of the order and ask for confirmation, but instead receive missile fire from another U.S. submarine. Left for dead at the bottom of the ocean, the Colorado finds refuge on an exotic island. As troops come toward the island, the members of the crew must work to clear their name and find out who is involved in a conspiracy of nuclear proportions. The 13 episodes includes are: “Captain”, “Blue on Blue”, “Eight Bells”, “Voluntold”, “Skeleton Crew”, “Another Fine Navy Day”, “Nuke It Out”, “Big Chicken Dinner”, “Cinderella Liberty”, “Blue Water”, “Damn the Torpedoes”, “The Pointy End of the Spear” and “Controlled Flight Into Terrain”.

The special features on this series is actually quite awesome with 13 All-New Featurettes. “Making the Pilot” gives an inside look behind-the-scenes on the first episode. “Profiles in Courage” is a chat with– co-creators and executive producers Shawn Ryan and Karl Gajdusek on the USS Colorado crew members. “Conn Artists” talks about the sets with Production Designer Jim Spencer and Set Decorator Brenda Meyers-Ballard. “Anatomy of an Episode” focuses on the episode “Voluntold” with cast/crew. “Grace Under Fire” has Daisy Betts talking about her role. “Ties That Bind” features the cast chatting about the shows crucial relationship between Christine and Sam.

“Subvirtual” features the Fuse FX team talking about the show’s stunning computer-generated visual effects. “The Buzzard’s Nest” talks about filming the explosive riot scenes in “Big Chicken Dinner.” “Turning Point” looks into the Naval SEAL mission in Pakistan that sets off the chain of events in the series. “The Mole” – Jessica Camacho peels away the layers around Cortez’s undercover role aboard the USS Colorado. “Serrat’s Lair” looks into the building of the estate that serves as Serrat’s island compound. “I, Kylie” has Autumn Reeser reflecting about her role. “Epilogue” has the– cast and crew looking back on their characters and roles.

Starring: J.G. Quintel, William Salyers, Sam Marin, Mark Hamill
Created by: J.G. Quintel
Studio: Cartoon Network
Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 440 minutes

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

I have to thank Mark Hamill for getting me into this show. When I interviewed him last October (read the interview here), he really pitched me on the show and since then I have been a HUGE fan. I think I might actually quote this show every single day from screaming OOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! to my wife’s favorite, which is HAMBONING!!!! (which I actually hear might save your life one day).  Fans of this show will finally get a Blu-ray release for not one but two seasons of this amazing show.  That’s right we get all 40 episodes from the series’ first and second seasons. Count me in!

This show has also won the Emmy® Award for animated series last year and is only getting more popular as the series progresses.  It is created by J.G. Quintel (“The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack”, “Camp Lazlo”), who also voices the lead character Mordecai on the show.  This guy is a complete genius.  This show is not only funny, it is also ridiculously clever and sharp. There is not one episode that passes that I am not dying laughing at some point. William Salyers (“Morel Orel”) voices the other lead character, Rigby. (Click here for my interview with him from earlier this year). The two of these guys are a fantastic combo and really play off each other so well.  If you are a fan of other Cartoon Network shows like “Adventure Time”, I highly recommend this series.

Official Synopsis: Sarcastic blue jay Mordecai (voiced by J. G. Quintel) and somewhat responsible raccoon Rigby (William Salyers) are best friends. They even work together at a park owned by Pops (Sam Marin), a big lollipop-headed guy. Which seems normal enough. They’ve got a cranky gumball machine for a boss (Martin) and they work alongside a Zen-like yeti named Skips (Mark Hamill). Yep. Everything is as regular as can be.

The episodes from the first season included are: “The Power”, “Just Set Up the Chairs”, “Caffeinated Concert Tickets, “Death Punchies”, “Free Cake”, “Meat Your Maker”, “Grilled Cheese Deluxe”, “The Unicorns Have Got to Go”, “Prank Callers”, “Don”, “Rigby’s Body” and “Mordecai and the Rigbys”. The episodes from the second season included are: “Ello Gov’nor”, “It’s Time”, “Appreciation Day”, “Peeps”, “Dizzy”, “My Mom”, “High Score”, “Rage Against the TV”, “Party Pete”, “Brain Eraser”, “Benson Be Gone”, “But I Have a Receipt”, “This Is My Jam”, “Muscle Woman”, “Temp Check”, “Jinx”, “See You There”, “Do Me a Solid”, “Grave Sights”, “Really Real Wrestling”, “Over the Top”, “The Night Owl”, “A Bunch of Baby Ducks”, “More Smarter”, “First Day”, “Go Viral”, “Skunked” and “Karaoke Video”

The 1080p transfer for each episode is awesome with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. I have watched this show is various formats from online to satellite TV and this was a real treat. The animation looks crisp and the colors are very vibrant. Although the back of the packaging tells us that there are both a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and Dolby Digital 5.1 tracks, neither of those are actually available. In fact the only track available for the episodes is a Dolby Digital 2.0 (192 kbps) track. It is not terrible but a little bit disappointing when you consider how great this show would have been in TrueHD. HMMM HMMM!

The special features on this release are absolutely amazing (especially compared to “Adventure Times” recent Blu-ray season releases). There are two hours of bonus features along with an audio commentary track for literally every single episode with creator J.G. Quintel and the show’s storyboard artists.  This is literally worth the purchase of the Blu-ray alone! 40 commentary tracks! Hello!? Count me in!  Great way to revisit the show and also learn new things about it as a fan straight from the creators mouth.  Highly recommend these tracks.

There is the unaired pilot episode, which is awesome, as well as an animatic for it also. There is also an animatic for the episode “The Power”, along with a video of J.G. Quintel pitching the episode. There is an interview with J.G. Quintel chatting about this unique and amazing series and also his student short, “The Naïve Man from Lolliland”. Tired yet? Well there is still some more “Original Pencil Tests from Saerom”, “CG Test for Hodgepodge Monster”, “2010 Comic Con Teaser Trailer”, Party Tonight Music Video” and “Original Regular Show Commercials”. Any fan of this show will be left exhausted after all these great extras!

Actors: Daniel Giménez Cacho, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Vinessa Shaw
Directors: Makinov
Rated: Unrated
Studio: New Video Group
Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 86 minutes

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

When I first saw “Come Out and Play”, I was blown away. I thought that it was a slow-burn horror film that really grabbed you. The second viewing of it was still impressive but I feel that the shock and wow factor have passed. Still the third act really packs a solid punch and will leave you mouthing the words “What the f***k, no question. This is directed by Makinov, who we know little about personally except that he is known for wearing a mask. This is based on Juan José Plan’s 1976 Spanish horror classic, “El Juego De Niños”. Think “Children of the Corn”, hold the corn and taking place on an island. I would easily recommend for any horror fan!

Official Premise: Beth (Vinessa Shaw) and Francis (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) decide to take a vacation before the birth of their child. Francis insists on venturing to a more serene island; Beth hesitantly agrees. Soon they discover the island is mysteriously abandoned, populated only by children. Beth and Francis are left to uncover the mystery of the disappearances, as a day in paradise quickly turns into a struggle for survival.

“Come Out and Play” comes with a very sharp presentation, thanks to New Video Group. The 1080p transfer comes with a unique aspect ratio of 2.24:1 but it still works very well. Makinov himself also took on the role of Cinematographer on this film and had a very specific approach to his vision. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 sounds great and holds the suspense well as hoped. Again Makinov also scored this film himself, which sounds amazing and I would love to get my hands on a copy. The special features though a a little light with a few short deleted/extended scenes, a short EPK with two interviews, a making of featurette focusing on the kids stunts and finally a trailer is included.

Actors: Steve Carell, Jim Carrey, Steve Buscemi, Olivia Wilde, Alan Arkin
Directors: Don Scardino
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: New Line Home Video
Release Date: June 25, 2013
Run Time: 100 minutes

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

Steve Carell, Steve Buscemi AND Jim Carrey…that is comedy talent overload for me. How could you go wrong? Well if you make this the Steve Carell show (who has never impressed me post “Anchorman”). Jim Carrey is barely in the film and yet is played like a star. He is also not funny at all either given the boring character he was given to play. The best part of the film was easily Alan Arkin, who steals the show (as always). See clip below! One thing I have to give to this film is that it gets better in its third act but unfortunately by then you have already lost all interest in the characters and the story. This film just ends up adding another reason why I am not a Steve Carell fan (I really hope he doesn’t ruin “Anchorman 2” for me).

Official Synopsis: Superstar magicians Burt Wonderstone (Carell) and Anton Marvelton (Buscemi) have ruled the Las Vegas strip for years, raking in millions with illusions as big as Burt’s growing ego. But lately the duo’s greatest deception is their public friendship, while secretly they’ve grown to loathe each other. Facing cutthroat competition from guerilla street magician Steve Gray (Carrey), whose cult following surges with each outrageous stunt, even their show looks stale. But there’s still a chance Burt and Anton can save the act, both onstage and off, if Burt can get back in touch with what made him love magic in the first place.

Even though the film is not perfect, Warner Bros. continues to deliver fantastic Blu-ray releases. This combo pack includes a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy with iTunes and UltraViolet. You get all the options available here to choose from. The 1080p transfer is clear and shines like Las Vegas’ strip. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works with few jokes and music throughout the film.  The special features are light in terms of content like the film itself.  There is about 20 minutes of Deleted Scenes and Alternate Takes included as well as a Gag Reel, which is basically just improv-o-rama. There is a short featurette “Making Movie Magic with David Copperfield”, with the magician talking about magic. Lastly there is “Steve Gray Uncut” with raw, never-before-seen extra footage with Jim Carrey.

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone is available on Blu-Ray 6/25/2013 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/18zuOvQ

Actors: Ashley Bell, Julia Garner, Spencer Treat Clark, David Jensen, Tarra Riggs
Directors: Ed Gass-Donnelly
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

Man did I really want to love this movie.  I thought the first “The Last Exorcism” (that just sounds wrong BTW) was pretty kick ass, not perfect but definitely cool flick.  This unnecessary sequel (hello, “Last Exorcism”) steps away from the found-footage angle but doesn’t add any scares.  In fact there are little to no good scares in this film.  The film runs 88 minutes and yet I didn’t feel that anything useful happens until just past the one hour marks and then they rush and realize this film needs to actual be about an “exorcism”.  Ashley Bell repeats her good performances from the first film but doesn’t add anything new here.  I would skip this film and keep you good or at least decent memories of the first film.

Official Premise: Continuing where the first film left off, Nell Sweetzer (Ashley Bell) is found terrified and alone in rural Louisiana. Back in the relative safety of New Orleans, Nell realizes that she can’t remember entire portions of the previous months only that she is the last surviving member of her family. Just as Nell begins the difficult process of starting a new life, the evil force that once possessed her is back with other, unimaginably horrific plans that mean her last exorcism was just the beginning.

Sony released thisd Blu-ray as an “Unrated Edition” but they forgot to actually also include the PG-13 theatrical version as well (not that I would have watched it anyway). Along with the Blu-ray, there is also an Ultraviolet digital copy included. The 1080p transfer and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track are good enough for a low budget film. I wish they would have taken advantage more of New Orleans and used it as a character that it can be. The special features are not great either.  There are three featurettes including “Shooting in New Orleans”, “Hair Salon Scare – The Last Exorcism Part II goes Viral” and Nell’s Story. Lastly there is a audio commentary track with Ed Gass-Donnelly and Eli Roth.

When you Starring: Henry Thomas, Jesse James, Fred Dalton Thompson, Kaley Cuoco, Stephen Tobolowsky, Ray McKinnon
Director: Harry Thomason
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Run Time: 106 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

When you think of country music, it is hard not to think about Hank Williams. He will always be considered one of the most legendary country artists of all-time.  This little indie features a pretty impressive cast including Henry Thomas (“E.T.”), Jesse James (“Jumper”), Kaley Cuoco (“The Big Bang Theory”), Fred Dalton Thompson (“Law & Order”) and Stephen Tobolowsky (“Groundhog Day”). The cast does what they can from the fairly weak script. I don’t think that this is going to convert people to listen to country music but definitely worth checking out if you are a fan.

Official Premise: Based on the controversial life story of singer-songwriter, Hank Williams, THE LAST RIDE tells the powerful tale of country music’s original bad boy. The man, the myth and the music come together when Williams travels from Alabama to a series of New Years shows in West Virginia and Ohio. This remarkable journey leads straight into the heart and soul of the legendary performer…as he takes one last shot at redemption. Featuring all-new versions of Hank Williams’ greatest songs, this emotional tale of hope and truth is one you’ll never forget.

The Blu-ray presentation is impressive despite the low-budget of the film.  The 1080p transfer is not going to win any awards but its delivers a clear presentation.  Of course when it comes to Hank Williams, the music is key.  So the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is quite impressive and delivers the tunes quite well. In terms of special features there is only one extra included, which is a short featurette titled “A Look Inside The Last Ride”. I would have loved to seen more in this department. Commentary tracks would have been a nice bonus.

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The Doobie Brothers: Live at Wolf Trap
Blu-ray (also available on DVD, CD, and vinyl)
Eagle Vision
Total Running Time: 166 minutes (including extras)

Our Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

From the opening motorcycle revving to the closing bows, “The Doobie Brothers: Live at Wolf Trap” makes a solid two-hour case for why the Doobies stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the greatest bands of the classic rock era. The two-hour show is packed with iconic hits that never seem dated: “Long Train’ Runnin’”, “Take Me In Your Arms”, “Jesus is Just Alright”, “Black Water” – the list goes on and on. Filmed in 2004 at Virginia’s Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, the band immediately launches into a groove that combines elements of rock, country, bluegrass, blues in a way that is always appealing and flat-out fun. And, as the closing credits roll, one question is clear: Why aren’t the Doobie Brothers in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?  They’re looooong overdue.

The 2004 Tommy Johnston-led line-up draws almost exclusively from the band’s LPs from the 70’s that featured Johnston on lead vocals and guitar. Songs from the considerably mellower Michael McDonald era of the 1980’s are almost entirely absent – a respectable move given that McDonald’s “ya mo’ be there” vocal is such an inseparable earworm trademark. The sole McDonald track performed at the Wolf Trap – “Takin’ It to the Streets” – is handled vocally by founding Doobie, Pat Simmons, and the Brothers’ touring bassist, Skylark. The result is a live version that is equally as good if not better than the original version. It also provides the energetic bassist some center stage time that he so richly deserves. In fact, if there’s an intoxicatingly awesome performance to watch on this disc, it’s his.

Despite the fact that the concert is from almost a decade ago and has been available on DVD for  nearly as long, it truly shines on this first-ever Blu-ray issue given that the show was filmed using 10 high-definition cameras. While the overall program does suffer some from rapid-fire editing, the picture is always crisp and clean and the colors are perfectly balanced. The disc defaults to a LPCM stereo audio track that often buries the lead vocals so much that they’re almost inaudible in various spots. Switching over to the vastly superior DTS Master HD mix provides a much more even mix that utilizes the surround channels very effectively.

The disc also suffers from other technical issues that should have been corrected before this disc made it to market. The biggest problem is the extreme difference in sound levels between the live concert itself and the bonus features that are included, which include “backstage pass interviews” (which is more-or-less a sampler from the “Listen to the Music” documentary released late last year) and interactive links that appear during the concert that allow the viewer to jump into interview segments that directly pertain to the song being performed. While this audio glitch isn’t a big deal for the former, it’s hugely frustrating to have to crank up the volume to hear what Johnston and Simmons are saying and then, as a result, return to the concert footage now at deafeningly-loud sound levels. Some simple equalization and basic mixing would have gone a long way. It’s also somewhat annoying that the distracting talking head icons that appear at the bottom left corner of the screen to indicate the availability of the in-concert interview clips can’t be turned off completely.

Technical issues aside (they’re the only reason I’m docking this one by a full star), this is an amazing disc that showcases a legendary band in peak form. Now 40+ years on down the track, the Doobie Brothers’ long train is still runnin’ as strong and as powerful as ever.