Actors: Kevin McDonald, Dave Foley, Bruce McCulloch, Mark McKinney, Scott Thompson
Director: Kelly Makin
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Archive / Paramount
Release Date: June 25, 2013
Running Time: 89 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to “Kids in the Hall: Brain Candy”, it is really a crap shoot between fans. I personally have always loved this film. To me this film was absolutely hysterical in 1996 and is still extremely funny in 2013. I think the film was troubled from the start since it was when the group were having issues so it is not perfect but still effective. I even had (and still do) the cassette tape of the film’s soundtrack, which I know by heart track for track. This may not be for every “Kids in the Hall” fan but I still highly recommend it. Thanks to Warner Archive for pulling this film out of print and giving it a new life.

Official Premise: The Country hits cloud nine when obsessed scientist Chris Cooper (Kevin McDonald) invents Gleemonex, a happiness drug. Soon everybody is taking the little orange pill. But Cooper gets a heavy dose of the blues when he discovers that early test subjects have slipped into comas. Can Cooper stop the people’s happy habit – before it’s too late?

This film has not been available now for many years due to being out of print, so it is great to see it available to fans again for a reasonable price. I would have loved to seen this film make the jump to Blu-ray but I highly see that happening…ever. The transfer isn’t restored from the previous DVD but it still holds it’s own over the years. This DVD does not come with any special features but then again neither did the original 2002 Paramount DVD. I would have loved to seen some commentary tracks but since this film was made during the break up of the group they do not have good memories surrounding it and do not really support this film.

Actors: Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam, Carl Reiner
Directors: Jerry Paris
Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: July 2, 2013
Run Time: 800 minutes

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

Season four of “The Dick Van Dyke” show continues to deliver with the laughter and great jokes.  It is one of my favorite seasons, as it introduced a new twist to the show having Alan Brady finally stepping out from being an off-screen character and getting a face. He was played by none other than the show’s own creator Carl Reiner. Reiner really makes this character one of my favorites from the show and adds a whole new dynamic for the series. If you are fan of this show Image delivers again with another successfully season release. I am sad to think that this series will be completed when season five is released in August 2013. Hopefully they have the rights to the “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” next. 😉

Official Premise: Join one of TV’s funniest couples as they tackle life in the suburbs and work in the big city. Dick Van Dyke is hilarious as Rob Petrie, the wacky comedy writer, and Mary Tyler Moore is the sexiest, nuttiest wife in New Rochelle. Add to that magic combination the talents of Carl Reiner, Morey Amsterdam, Rose Marie and Richard Deacon, and you’ve got one of the most popular sitcoms ever – the winner of 15 Emmy Awards! Now you can enjoy the complete fourth season (airing 1964-1965), all 32 episodes in their entirety! Be there as Laura gets her toe caught in a bath spout in the unforgettable Never Bathe on a Saturday, a sleep-deprived Rob tries to stay awake during his job interview with Alan Brady in 100 Terrible Hours and Don Rickles is a klutzy thief who tries to rob the Petries in a stalled elevator in 4 1/2, then enlists them to entertain in The Alan Brady Show Goes to Jail.

With each passing season, I never cease to be impressed with that love that Image has given this show. These episodes have been released on Blu-ray with all-new scans from the camera negatives. The 1080p transfer looks, honestly not short of stunning for a show of it’s age. Each episode come with an original DTS-HD MA 1.0 audio track, which works for the show and its comedy. The episodes were mostly taped with a studio audience and the laughing is balanced well with the snappy jokes and sharp dialogue. You will not be let down with this amazing audio and video presentations.

There are some new Blu-ray exclusive special features. There is “Mary on The Danny Thomas Show” in which she tells the story of how she came to be cast as Laura Petrie. There are three separate “TV Academy Tribute to Carl Reiner” included as well. The first is from Dick Van Dyke, who tells him stories about their collaboration. The next one is from Ray Romano and Brad Garrett and the last one is from Rose Marie, Larry Matthews and Bill Persky, which is my personal favorite of the three. Rose Marie just cracks me up!

The rest of the season features are roll-overs from past DVD releases but are still fantastic. There are commentary tracks from Carl Reiner and Dick Van Dyke on episodes 121 (Never Bathe on Saturday) and episode 124 (Baby Fat). Also on episode 124, there is a track from Garry Marshall. All great commentary tracks for sure, a lot of fun! These guys really loved what they did and it sure does show! There are “Episode Photos” throughout all three discs for episodes 30 out of the 32 episodes, amazing!

Other extras include featurettes on disc 1: “Remembering Don Rickles” (episode 102) and “Remembering the Pink Pills” (episode 106), which look back at those episodes and their characters. Also there is a clip from the Animated Program “The Alan Brady Show” (episode 103). Disc 2 contains more featurettes on including “DVD Exclusive Awards: The Dick Van Dyke Show: Season One (Best Overall DVD, TV Program)”, “Diagnosis Murder: Dr. Mark Sloan Meets Rob Petrie” and “Dick Sings the Theme Song at the Hollywood Bowl (2001)”.

The third disc actually has the most extras listed for the season. First we get three featurettes “Remembering Never Bathe on Saturday” (episode 121), “Remembering Baby Fat” (episode 124) and “Remembering the Motorcyle” (episode 125) look back at these amazing episodes. There is a look back at the show in “The Dick Van Dyke Show Remembered”. Lastly there is a piece from “Emmy Awards® (1964-1965) Outstanding Program Achievement in Entertainment” and some extras “Nick at Nite Promos” included.

Created by: Art Vitello
Voiced by: Jim Cummings, Rob Paulsen, Maurice LaMarche, Kellie Martin, John Astin
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: May 14, 2013
Run Time: 286 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

With the huge success of “Tiny Toon Adventures”, “Taz-Mania” was born and still is a very fun spin-off giving the little devil a chance to own the spotlight. I remember watching this series as a kid and loving it. I also remember playing the hell out of the Sega Genesis game of the same name in 1992. Jim Cummings, one of my favorite voice actors, gives Taz his voice and also a few other great characters as well. This show ran for four seasons with 65 episodes. So in this “Season One, Part One” release we get the first 13 episodes. In fact “Season One, Part Two” already has a release date set on August 6, 2013 with another 13 episodes.

Official Premise: Clear the way! Here comes Taz, a whirlwind of terror and destruction. He’s a teenage Tasmanian Devil with a voracious appetite who devours nearly everything in his path, even his sister Molly’s beloved New Chips off the Block action figures! Sibling rivalry is tough, especially when you have a little sister who is the typical teenage girl who regularly gets on your nerves. Then there’s little brother Jake, who looks up to Taz and idolizes his big brother. Mom, Jean, is a dedicated mother who runs a shipshape household and loves her kids. Hugh is Taz’s easy-going dad, who enjoys playing golf. One of Taz’ best friends is his loyal pet, Dog the Turtle, a turtle who behaves just like a dog and even enjoys playing fetch! Together, the close-knit family of Tasmanian Devils, live on the lush, exotic island of Tazmania, where the sky is always a vibrant shade of yellow and adventures abound. Joining them is a lively cast of characters including, Constance Koala, Daniel and Timothy Platypus, Digeri Dingo, Wendal T. Wolf, Mr. Thickley and many others.

Disc 1 includes the following episodes: “Like Father, Like Son/Frights of Passage”, “The Dog the Turtle Story”, “War & Pieces/Airbourne Airhead”, “Battling Bushrats/Devil in the Deep Blue Sea”, “A Devil of a Job”, “Woeful Wolf”, “It’s No Picnic/Kee-Wee ala King” Disc 2 includes the following episodes: “Here, Kitty, Kitty, Kitty/Enter the Devil”, “Mishap in the Mist/Toothache Taz”, “Bewitched Bob”, “Instant Replay/Taz and the Pterodactyl”, “Comic Madness/Blunders Never Cease” and “Pup Goes the Wendal/I’m OK, You’re Taz”

This DVD marks the rest time that these episode have been released on DVD. I do not know if they have been restored or remastered at all but they still look pretty damn good. The are presented in full-frame to preserve the original television aspect ratio. This series just makes me realize how much I actually do miss Saturday morning cartoons. I am looking forward to future releases from this series and I hope that Warner Bros will continue to release great animated cartoons like this one. There are no extras included but there is a pamphlet for a bonus virtual item on the “Looney Tunes/Scooby Doo Cartoon Universe” online game.

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Voices of: Corinne Orr, Jack Grimes, Peter Fernandez and Jack Curtis
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 637 minutes
Format: Made To Order DVD

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When it comes to “Marine Boy”, it may not be the most known animated series but it is still quite important. It was one of the original anime series, in color, to hit America from Japan. It follows other hit series like “Speed Racer” and even featured the various of the same voice actors including Corinne Orr, Jack Grimes, Peter Fernandez and Jack Curtis. This series ran for 78 episodes, yet here we are getting 26 from the first season. So I am sure that you can most definitely expect additional releases in coming months. Fans of this long-lost show should be doing back flips for this release. Leave it to Warner Archive Collection for reviving and restoring yet another lost fan-favorite TV series! Keep ’em coming guys!

Official Premise: Teenage Marine Boy battles evil on and under the seas on behalf of the Ocean Patrol, aided by the amazing inventions of his father, Dr. Mariner and the brilliant Professor Fumble. Joining Marine Boy in his mission are his white dolphin, Splasher, young mermaid Neptina, and fellow Ocean Patrol agents Bullton and Piper. Adding complication to the mission are the effort of to CliCli prove himself a miniature Marine Boy. So break out your Oxy-Gum and get ready to dive into these amazing aquatic animated adventures.

These episodes are newly remastered and have never looked better. They are presented in their original full-screen 4×3 with a 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The following episodes included and split over three discs: “The Green Monster”, “Danger At 300 Fathoms”, “Monsters Of The Deep”, “Dangerous Starfish”, “The Astounding Shellfish”, “The Mysterious Paradise”, “Deepest Of The Deep”, “The Ghost Ship”, “The Monstrous Seaweed”, “The Super Mystery Boat”, “The Greatest Power On Earth”, “Disaster On The High Sea”, “Secret Of The Time Capsule”, “Mystery Of The Missing Vessels”, “Menace Of The Missing Bomb”, “Danger In The Depths”, “The Gigantic Sea Farm”, “Terror Of The Fire Ball”, “Empire Of The Sea”, “Battle To Save The World”, “The Terrifying Icebergs”, “The Whales Of Destruction”, “The Power Of Power”, “5 Billion In Diamonds”, “Mission At Corkscrew Strait” and “Lighthouse Of Terror”.

Actors: Mick Wingert, Fred Tatasciore, Kari Wahlgren, Max Koch, Amir Talai
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 154 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness” is a spin-off animated series in the “Kung Fu Panda” franchise and takes place between the two films. Mike Wingert has done a great job stealing Jack Black’s voice to give life to Po. Lucy Lu and James Hong are the only cast returning from the series. I have to admit since this series started airing in 2011, I am surprised that it took so long to start releasing these episodes on DVD. This show would have benefited so much more from a Blu-ray transfer with its great animation and colorful episodes. This show doesn’t have the same charm of the films but it is still action-packed, funny and clever. So kids (and most adults) should have a blast with these episodes.

Official Premise: Brace yourself for awesome action and legendary laughs in this fun-filled animated TV series based on the Academy Awardr-Nominated hit movie Kung Fu Panda! As the chosen Dragon Warrior and sworn protector of the Valley of Peace, Po the panda is highly skilled, ever vigilant and hungry for justice…and dumplings. Together with the Furious Five – Tigress, Monkey, Mantis, Crane and Viper – Po must fend off fierce villains, including an evil version of himself (courtesy of the Mystical Mirror of Yin and Yang) and the toothy Croc Bandits!

There are seven episodes included out of over fifty episodes that has aired to date, but that still adds to nearly three hours of kung-fu action packed adventures.  The episodes included are “Good Croc, Bad Croc”, episodes 6; “The Princess and the Po”, episode 2; “Chain Reaction. episode 4; “Bad Po”, episode 10; “Jailhouse Panda”, episode 8; “Father Crime”, episode 25; “Po Fans Out”, episode 18. This is a nice sample of the show’s first season but I still would rather get a complete season one DVD release. There are no additional special features included amongst these episodes. Though, in the case there is a code included to unlock power-ups, exclusive downloads and more on the all-new online game “Croc Crackdown” on Nick’s website. If you want more you will happy to know that the included pamphlet advertises “The Scorpion Sting”  DVD release and more are coming soon.

Voices of Bret Iwan, Russi Taylor, Bill Farmer, Tony Anselmo and Tress MacNeille
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
MPAA Rating: TV-Y
DVD Release Date: June 11, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Just when you think Disney Junior’s “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” cannot get any cuter we get the latest special episode from the show’s fourth season “Minnie’s The Wizard of Dizz”.  This is a new double episode musical version of “The Wizard of Oz”, which aired on June 7th on Disney Junior.  I have to admit it is one of my favorite episodes of the show in recent years. I love the mash-up with “The Wizard of Oz”, it is very fun and…did I mention cute.  My daughter is already a big fan of this new special, especially for the fantastic special features (more on that below).  If you have a baby to pre-schooler this is a must purchase for sure! Disney Junior keep these coming please!

Official Premise: Journey to a wondrous land of enchantment and surprises! The classic tale gets a brand-new twist in Minnie’s new full-length adventure: The Wizard Of Dizz. Before you can say, “pink tornado,” Minnie and Pluto end up in the silly but spectacular land of Dizz. It’s an amazing place, with rainbow trees, butterfly bows, and friendly “Chipmunchkins,” but what Minnie wants most is to get home. Together, Minnie and her new friends Scarecrow Goofy, Mickey the Tin Mouse, and Donald the Lion,set off to ask the wonderful Wizard of Dizz to make their dreams come true. But look out! Bad Witch Pete wants Minnie’s magical, sparkly green shoes, and he’s got a few tricks up his sleeve.

This DVD includes a free downloadable “Minnie Bow-Maker” app for your smartphones.  This will go right on the iPad for my daughter to enjoy.  The special features are excellent includes two additional episodes: “The Golden House”  (Episode 88, Season 3)and “Goofy’s Gone” (Episode 93, Season 3).  But wait there is more with the first ten bonus Minnie’s Bow-Toons mini-episodes from its first season including “Leaky Pipes”, “The Pom Pom Problem”, “Trouble Times Two”, “Figaro’s Friend”, “A Shop in the Dark”, “Flower Fix”, “Dance Lessons”, “In Plane Sight”, “Bow-Bot” and “Fashion Emergency”. These episodes are great and I hope they include more of these on future releases.

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.