Starring: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, Marina Sirtis
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Paramount
DVD Release Date: April 30, 2013
Run Time: 85 minutes

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

For all “Star Trek: The Next Generation” fans, we all know that “The Best of Both Worlds” was one of the best arcs in the series. The classic two-part cliffhanger ended the third season and started the fourth season. This Blu-ray contains both parts of this great story blended into one seamlessly edited feature length film. The only issue with this Blu-ray is that since “The Best of Both Worlds: Part 1” was one of the best cliffhangers ever, putting the two parts together kind of takes a little bit of that away anticipation away. But I love this story and this new edit works quite well. Also “The Best of Both Worlds: Part 2” isn’t available until Paramount releases the “Star Trek: The Next Generation, Season 4” on Blu-ray possibly later this year. But in the meantime fans can enjoy it in advance right here.

Official Premise: The powerful cliffhanger: The Best of Both Worlds Part 1 and 2 has been fully restored in brilliant 1080p HD and seamlessly edited together into one feature-length presentation…and the crew of the Enterprise is asked: How do you stop an unstoppable foe? The Enterprise team discovers the devastated remains of a Federation colony as an ambitious young officer joins the crew to confirm the presence of the deadly Borg. Soon after, Borg drones abduct Captain Picard, mutilating him horribly as they assimilate him into their collective. Commander Riker must take over as Enterprise captain as Steerfleet braces for an all-out battle to defend Earth. But the Borg’s power proves overwhelming, and resistance is futile. Will Riker be forced to destroy his former captain to save Earth and the Federation?

So I wouldn’t really consider this a double-dip since it does come with some great special features.  This is also the only place to watch the two-part edit since only Part 1 is available on the third season Blu-ray. Some fans also might want to only own the episodes in a feature-length format then the whole seasons. The Blu-ray presentation is pretty sharp as well with a nice Velcro snap half-cover slipcase, simple but nice touch. Another bonus to this release is that Paramount is including a UltraViolet digital streaming copy of the episodes. They are beautifully presented in 1080p with a stunning 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio. The episodes have never looked or sounded better. The special features include an audio commentary track with Cliff Bole, Mike & Denise Okuda and Elizabeth Dennehy. There is also a featurette “Regeneration: Engaging the Borg” and a Gag Reel included. These bonus features are also not available on the “Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Three” Blu-ray release.

Actors: Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn, Nick Nolte, Emma Stone
Directors: Ruben Fleischer
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: April 23, 2013
Running Time:

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

I am not the biggest fan of gangster films. My all-times favorites have been always been “Goodfellas” and “Casino” but besides those, I never really dig this genre. “Gangster Squad” is a movie with a great talented cast but suffers from a weak script and the same-old, same-ole gangster approach. Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn and Emma Stone all are good in the film but their performances suffer from being stuck in a box and not able to perform outside of it. This film was affected by the Colorado shooting last summer and was forced to re-cut the a shootout scene that took place in a movie theater. I feel that it was a smart move to re-shoot. If you like Gangster films, you might really enjoy this film but otherwise it feels like to be done already and nothing new here.

Official Premise: Los Angeles, 1949. Ruthless, Brooklyn-born mob king Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn) runs the show in this town, reaping the ill-gotten gains from the drugs, the guns, the prostitutes and – if he has his way – every wire bet placed west of Chicago. And he does it all with the protection of not only his own paid goons, but also the police and the politicians who are under his control. It’s enough to intimidate even the bravest, street-hardened cop – except, perhaps, for the small, secret crew of LAPD outsiders led by Sgt. John O’Mara (Josh Brolin) and Jerry Wooters (Ryan Gosling), who come together to try to tear Cohen’s world apart.

Whether “Gangster Squad” is good or not, it still packs a fantastic Blu-ray presentation. Warner Brothers delivers a two-disc combo pack set with a Blu-ray and DVD of the film. There are also two digital copies included, Ultraviolet and iTunes. I personally always prefer the digital streaming copy since you don’t have to use your own storage space on your device. The 1080p transfer is very sharp and work well with the tone of the film. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track works well with every gunshot and explosion. I also thought that Steve Jablonsky’s score really got presented very well.

The special features are pretty good as well. There is an audio commentary track from director Ruben Fleischer. It is not my favorite commentary track ever but does have some good info. “The Gangland Files” is a Picture-in-Picture overlay during the film that gives interviews and facts about the film. “Focus Points: The Set-Up” is a collection of fifteen behind-the-scenes featurettes which add up to abut 45 minutes together. There are seven deleted Scenes with an introduction from the director. “Rogues Gallery: Mickey Cohen” is a documentary about the famous gangster. “Then and Now Locations” is a collection of photos from locations. Lastly, “Tough Guys with Style” is a short piece with the cast about the production.

“Gangster Squad” available on Blu-ray Combo pack, DVD and Digital Download 4/23

Starring: Chad Michael Murray, Abigail Spencer, Katee Sackhoff, Emily Alyn Lind
Director: Tom Elkins
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lionsgate
DVD Release Date: April 16, 2013
Run Time: 100 minutes

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

Let’s get this out of the way…what were they thinking with this title? I remember when I first say this film announced on Bloody-Disgusting and I just thought to myself “WTF, are they serious?” I understand that “The Haunting in Connecticut” was a very successful film but they could have easily have just called this “The Haunting in Georgia” and it would have gotten much more respect. It is based on a true story and in fact the film is quite awesome! Yes, I am serious.  The film is scary and has about tons of really great jump moments. I mean seriously, a man can’t handle that much! The story itself might not be the most well thought out of the year but it delivers the scares and for me that is the more important.  After watching as many shitty horror films as I do per year, this was easily one of the better and quite impressive.  I don’t look forward to going to bed tonight though. I will look forward to the third installment “The Haunting in New York” for sure!

Director Tom Elkins gets his first time in the director’s chair with this film and really proves his knows what he is doing.  He previously worked as an editor on films like “The New Daughter” and “Red Eye”, so he knows the genre quite well.  Since he also edited this film, he succeeds in piecing the good parts together well and effectively. I can’t wait to see what his next directorial effort will be.  Chad Michael Murray and Abigail Spencer both deliver strong performances or at much they can expect from a direct-to-video sequel. The star of the film for me is Emily Alyn Lind.  She is absolutely amazing and might I mention only 10 years old! You might know here best from her roles in films like “Won’t Back Down” and “J. Edgar, as Shirley Temple” and her TV role in ABC’s “Revenge” as Young Amanda Clarke.  She is going to be a huge actress for sure as she grows up, she keep an eye out!

Official Premise: Building on the terror of The Haunting in Connecticut, this horrifying tale traces a young family’s nightmarish descent into a centuries-old Southern hell. When Andy Wyrick (Chad Michael Murray, House of Wax) moves his wife Lisa (Abigail Spencer, TV’s “Mad Men”) and daughter Heidi to an historic home in Georgia, they quickly discover they are not the house’s only inhabitants. Joined by Lisa’s free-spirited sister, Joyce (Katee Sackhoff, TV’s “Battlestar Galactica”), the family soon comes face-to-face with a bone-chilling mystery born of a deranged desire a haunting secret rising from underground and threatening to bring down anyone in its path.

Lionsgate delivered a very impressive Blu-ray release for this film.  It also comes with an Ultraviolet streaming digital copy.  The 1080p transfer looks absolutely stunning within its 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The visual aspect of the film is a real home run and is well represented here. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is also amazing.  Yes, some of the jumps are a little cliche but it is effective and very scary. The special features are a bit of a let down though.  There is an audio commentary track with Director Tom Elkins, Writer David Coogeshall and Co-Producer Brad Kessell, which is not bad.  “Seeing Ghosts: The True Story of the Wyricks” is a cool feature for all ghost lovers.  There are over 15 minutes of deleted scenes with optional commentary with Director Tom Elkins and also some outtakes. Lastly there is a trailer for the first film and the sequel.

Actors: Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson
Directors: Quentin Tarantino
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Weinstein Company/Anchor Bay
Release Date: April 16, 2013
Run Time: 165 minutes

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

When it comes to Quentin Tarantino you know that you are getting not your typical Hollywood cookie cutter movie. “Django Unchained” is a real shocker from the moment it starts and doesn’t let up until its finale.  I have to admit, I am not a big fan of Jamie Foxx but as an actor you can’t not like him. He really plays the hell out of this role.  Christoph Waltz was absolutely stunning.  I literally hung on every word that he spoke. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor but he is in over 2 hours in a 2 hour and 45 minute movie. To me that is more than just supporting.  Leonardo DiCaprio easily delivers one of his best performances to date…again unrecognized with any awards. Samuel L. Jackson is good but I feel that he has lost his appeal a bit since he went joined up with “S.H.I.E.L.D” and all. Definitely not as powerful as he was back in the “Pulp Fiction” days.

The film is quite long but doesn’t drag. Quentin’s dialogue is mesmerizing and perfectly delivered by each the actors. The action is very powerful and intense that you find yourself yelling back at the screen. I love the force and explosion behind each bullet wound. Some of the battle scenes at Candyland reminded me a bit of the Crazy 88’s fight in “Kill Bill: Volume 1”. I have no idea how this film cost $100 million though.  It is quite epic don’t get me wrong, but there is no major special effects in here. I would have to rank this film third behind “Pulp Fiction” and “Inglorious Bastards”. So it may not be Quentin’s best film, but it is still a blast to watch. If you are a fan of his style then don’t miss this for sure.

Official Premise: Set in the South two years before the Civil War,  “Django Unchained” stars Academy Award®-winner Jamie Foxx as Django, a slave whose brutal history with his former owners lands him face-to-face with German-born bounty hunter Dr. King Schultz (Academy Award®-winner Christoph Waltz). Schultz is on the trail of the murderous Brittle brothers, and only Django can lead him to his bounty. The unorthodox Schultz acquires Django with a promise to free him upon the capture of the Brittles – dead or alive. Success leads Schultz to free Django, though the two men choose not to go their separate ways. Instead, Schultz seeks out the South’s most wanted criminals with Django by his side. Honing vital hunting skills, Django remains focused on one goal: finding and rescuing Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), the wife he lost to the slave trade long ago.

Django and Schultz’s search ultimately leads them to Calvin Candie (Academy Award®-nominee Leonardo DiCaprio), the proprietor of “Candyland,” an infamous plantation. Exploring the compound under false pretenses, Django and Schultz arouse the suspicion of Stephen (Academy Award®-nominee Samuel L. Jackson), Candie’s trusted house slave. Their moves are marked, and a treacherous organization closes in on them. If Django and Schultz are to escape with Broomhilda, they must choose between independence and solidarity, between sacrifice and survival…

Starz/Anchor Bay did a very fine job with this release. The combo pack release includes a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy and an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. The 1080p transfer looks stunning with its beautiful aspect ratio of 2.40:1. The film feels quite large and epic. This looks amazing on all the film’s wide shots and also the action scenes. When it comes to Quentin Tarantino, you have to expect good music and a great score. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track really sounds amazing. You find yourself dodging every single bullet amongst the action. The dialogue is perfectly balanced. The songs in the film represent the Spaghetti Western quite well.

The special features are a bit of a letdown though. I was hoping for some a nice look behind-the-scenes on the film and also some commentary tracks. Instead we get three featurettes, which are good but not at all what I was hoping for. “Remembering J. Michael Riva: The Production Design of Django Unchained” is a nice homage to the film’s production designer, who passes on during shooting. “Reimagining the Spaghetti Western: The Horses and Stunts of Django Unchained” has interviews with Tarantino and Jeff Dashnaw, the stunt coordinator, chatting about the production. “The Costume Designs of Sharen Davis” focuses on the wardrobes used in the film. Lastly there is a trailer for “Tarantino XX Blu-ray” and “Django Unchained Soundtrack”.

Directed by: Carl Urbano, Don Lusk, Paul Sommer, Robert Alvarez, Jay Sarbry
Voices of: Charlie Adler, William Callaway, Teresa Ganzel, Dick Gautier, Phil Hartman, Don Messick, Frank Welker, Patric Zimmerman
Number of discs: 2
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: April 30, 2013
Running Time: 290 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am not sure what it is about “Tom and Jerry” but they have always been one of my favorites. This popular cat and mouse duo has been around since 1940 and have never left the public eye for long. This animated series features the duo as kids, probably taking a page from “Muppets Babies”. “Tom and Jerry Kids Show” premiered in 1990 on Fox Kids and ran through 1994 for five seasons for a total of 65 episodes. This complete first season includes the first 13 episodes. So how does the the young Tom and Jerry rank against the older Tom and Jerry? Well it is fun and still had me laughing! So I give it a thumbs up…It was good as a kid for me and still good for me as an adult! I look forward to future seasons!

Official Premise: A Rivalry for All Ages! Spend some time with the beloved animated duo in their furry, formative years in Tom & Jerry Kids Show: The Complete Season One. Available for the first time on DVD in this 2-Disc collection, these delightful adventures follow the kitten and baby mouse as they taunt each other and create mayhem like only young ones can. Joined by their pals Droopy, Dripple, Spike and Tyke, Tom and Jerry bring on the giggles and good times in episodes such as Toys Will Be Toys, Bat Mouse, Cosmic Chaos and The Maltese Poodle. So run wild with 13 episodes from the hit TV series that feature more than four hours of hi-jinks that will be sure to bring out the kid in all of us!

“Tom and Jerry Kids Show The Complete Season 1″ is animated fun for the whole family. I have a 10-month old daughter and she literally lit up when these cartoons came on. I love that. For a show that I watched growing up now I will be able to share with my own child. The 13 episodes are split over a two-disc set with over four hours of guaranteed laughs and of course many “Tom and Jerry” hi-jinks. Each episode of this show is about 7 minutes so it works out that there is more like 39 mini-episodes included. The colors on the episodes still look sharp for a show that was produced well over 20 years ago, feeling old now. The audio included on the DVD is a typical Dolby Digital Mono track, which works well for the show itself. There are no additional special features included on the DVDs.

Season 1 episodes list:
Disc 1
1: Flippin’ Fido, Dakota Droopy & the Lost Dutch Boy Mine, Dog Daze Afternoon
2: Toys Will Be Toys, Droopy Delivers, My Pal
3: Prehistoric Pals, Super Droop & Dripple Boy Meet the Yolker, Marvelous Marvin
4: Bat Mouse, Puss n’ Pups, Outer Space Rover
5: The Vermin, Aerobic Droopy, Mouse Scouts
6: Sugar Belle Loves Tom, Sometimes, Mall Mouse, Super Duper Spike
7: Cosmic Chaos, Droopy of the Opera, Beach Bummers

Disc 2
8: Gator Baiter, Hoodwinked Cat, Medieval Mouse
9: Clyde to the Rescue, Droopio & Juliet, Maze Monster Zap Men
10: Crash Condor, Yo Ho Ho…Bub, Scrub-a-Dub Tom
11: No Biz Like Snow Biz, The Maltese Poodle, Cast Away Tom
12: The Little Urfulls, Droopo – First Bloodhound, Indy Mouse 500
13: Exterminator Cometh, Foreign Legion Frenzy, Urfo Returns

Actors: Jane Lynch, Christopher Lloyd, Vanessa Williams
Directors: Nikhil Advani
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Arc Entertainment
DVD Release Date: April 16th, 2013
Run Time: 96 minutes

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

“Delhi Safari” is the latest CG animated film, which originated as a foreign film and retooled with an American cast. This film originated from India and still keeps its Bollywood feel. It is filled with music and songs throughout. It does have a great American cast including Vanessa Williams, Cary Elwes, Brad Garrett, Jane Lynch, Christopher Lloyd and Jason Alexander. The movie is decent not amazing but I am also a sucker for music and animation.  I think that kids would enjoy it. They probably won’t get the message but still be entertained.

A wacky pack of mismatched animals takes on the human race as they travel to the big city to protest the destruction of their jungle. How can a leopard cub and his mother, a peace-loving bear, a mischievous monkey, and a wisecracking parrot present their ideas to a bunch of humans? You ll find out in this hilarious and heart-warming adventure that will have you cheering at the end.

This film is currently released as a Wal-Mart Exclusive. I believe that in June it will be released everywhere else. This is released as a combo back with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy.  The 1080p transfer looks nice but this is another example of Arc Entertainment refusing to release these films in there proper 3D format.  This film would have had a lot of extra “Wow” if it was shown in 3D.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works perfectly with the music and of course the songs.  There is no additional special features included on the release.

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Narrator: Josh Duhamel
Directors: Yann Arthus-Bertrand, Michael Pitiot
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: April 9, 2013
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

When you think of April, one of the most important days of the month each year is Earth Day. I honestly have to give it to BBC Earth and Disneynature for really highlighting this month with wonderful nature documentaries. “Planet Ocean” is released by Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Narrating the doc is actor Josh Duhamel (“Transformers” series). It is directed by acclaimed photographer, filmmaker and environmentalist Yann Arthus-Bertrand (“Home”). “Planet Ocean” is visually stunning…plain and simple. It is engaging and really entertaining not just for the nature buffs but for the whole family!

Official Premise: Planet Ocean captures extraordinary images of our remarkable oceans – the source of all life on our planet. Filmed by directors Yann Arthus-Bertrand and Michael Pitiot, along with an outstanding team of international underwater cinematographers, in partnership with OMEGA, and with the scientific support of Tara Expeditions, the film aims to explain some of the planet’s greatest natural mysteries, while reinforcing how essential it is that mankind learns to live in harmony with our oceans. Planet Ocean serves as a reminder of the bond between humans and nature, and the duty that exists to protect and respect our planet.

The 1080p transfer and 1.78:1 aspect ratio just looks stunning. This type of film would have looked even better in 3D since it was so well shot. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 sounds amazing and really transports you in the film and you feel like you are traveling through the ocean. I usually don’t focus much on the additional languages but this documentary also comes with DTS 5.1 tracks in Spanish, Portuguese, Czech, Italian, Japanese and Russian. Very impressive even though I speak non of those languages it is nice and makes this release very marketable.

The special features are quite impressive for this nature documentary. There is are three featurettes inside “The Making of Planet Ocean”, which goes behind-the-scenes in the documentary. The first is “In the Skies Above Rio”. which includes some really stunning images of Rio de Janeiro’s shores. I am a big fan of beautiful photography and this really left me inspired. “Underwater” is next and it looks into the mysteries of the marine life alongside the film’s underwater cinematographers. Lastly, included is “Shanghai”, which packs some really breathtaking aerial photography of the harbor and its significance.

Actors: David Tennant, Janet Montgomery
Director: Coky Giedroy
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Warner
DVD Release Date: April 16, 2013
Run Time: 180 minutes

Mini-Series: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

Who loves Doctor Who? Who thinks that David Tennant was brilliant as the Doctor  Well if you are like me then you are going to jump at the chance to see him in another amazing role. “Spies of Warsaw” is based on the book by historical spy novelist Alan Furst and is broken down into a two-part mini-series drama. This BBC adaptation packs plenty of espionage, betrayal and intrigue and most importantly did I say David Tennant already? I forget. He is fantastic in the role and the spy genre really suits him quite well. This is a must see for all his fans!

Official Premise: David Tennant (Doctor Who) and Janet Montgomery (Entourage) keep you guessing in this intense spy thriller based on the Alan Furst novel. Set in Poland, Paris, and Berlin at the onset of World War II, the aristocratic French attaché to Warsaw, Jean-François Mercier (Tennant), feels drawn to the world of espionage and intrigue while he engages in a passionate, illicit love affair with Anna (Montgomery), a Parisian lawyer for the League of Nations.

BBC Home Entertainment delivers a fine Blu-ray presentation here. The 1080p transfer is very crisp and captures the action very well. The audio track is good but could have used a small upgrade beyond its DTS-HD 2.0 track. It still works well with the film’s content. There is also a surprise Ultraviolet digital copy included inside the case. There was no mention of it anywhere else, so this was a real treat. I would have loved to see much more in the special features department. Instead we only get one feature, “David Tennant on Spies of Warsaw”. It is still worth checking out if you are a big fan. Since the film was shot on location, I would have loved to see behind-the-scene featurettes.

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Directors: James Brickwell & Richard Fitzpatrick
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: April 9, 2013
Running Time: 185 minutes

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

With Earth Day right around the corner, this is the time of the year when I can’t get enough nature documentaries. BBC Earth always puts out the best of the bunch. “Great Barrier Reef” is no different. Also who doesn’t love exploring the ocean. This is something that I have always been fascinated with this topic. What I also love about this film is the length of it. I say when it comes to nature documentaries the longer the better. This one runs over three hours, which is amazing!! The longer the better! Looking for a way to celebrate and support Earth Day? Get ready to into Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and look no further?

Official Premise: Stretching a full 2000 kilometers in length and made up of 3000 individual reef systems and hundreds of islands, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is breathtakingly beautiful. Selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981, it is one of the wonders of the natural world. These programs offer a definitive guide to the secrets of the reef — how it was created, how it works, the intricate relationships between its inhabitants and how climate change and other factors might shape its future. Using the latest specialist filming and visual techniques, the series captures the magic of the reef as it has never been seen before.

BBC Home Entertainment delivers a very impressive Blu-ray here but I am surprised that it is Blu-ray only, unlike the other recent release “One Life”. I would have like this to come in a combo pack with a DVD and Ultraviolet digital copy as well. The 1080p/16:9 transfer looks stunning, like I knew it would. You literally are transported into the reef and get to experience this wonders first hand. The audio track, DTS HD Stereo, is good but not overly impressive. It doesn’t disappoint either, so don’t worry. Also unlike “One Life”, this release does not come with any special features. But don’t forget it is also double the length of “One Life”, so you have to weight that factor as well. I would have loved to see a commentary track or some great behind-the-scenes though to be honest.

Narrator: Daniel Craig
Directors: Michael Gunton, Martha Holmes
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: April 9, 2013
Running Time: 85 minutes

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

Before I even start…do you see this cover art? Can you honestly say no to it?  I think not. “One Life” is the latest in nature documentaries from BBC Earth.  It is also one of my recent favorites among the genre.  It was filmed over 3000 days across every continent and in ever habitat.  The film comes narrated by James Bond himself Daniel Craig.  I loved “One Life” because it really tells many different stories and each one is connected with the element of survival. It is very powerful and also dramatic.  I am a big fan of these films and I feel like I have seen them do everything with these nature docs and I will still left saying “How the hell did they film that?” Beautifully shot and very entertaining for the whole family. Nature buffs and fans looking to celebrate Earth Day, this is a great day to do it.

Official Premise: Over the course of five billion years, life on Earth has evolved into the incredible richness and variety we see today. One Life is a celebration of the most brilliant and imaginative stories of survival from the natural world. Cutting-edge cinematic techniques capture unprecedented and astonishingly beautiful chronicles of animal ingenuity. One Life takes us from birth through to the creation of the next generation – then takes us one step further – revealing that, whether we have wings or flippers, eight legs or two, the triumph of life connects us all.

BBC Home Entertainment really delivers an impressive release.  This combo pack comes in a very impressive not only with a Blu-ray of the film but also a DVD and an Ultraviolet digital copy.  The 1080p/16:9 transfer looks actually stunning on Blu-ray.  You see every little detail and the transfer shows all the hard work that was put into filming these stunning situations.  The DTS-HD 5.1 track works perfectly with the documentary and assist in driving the film well and giving Craig’s voice some good weight.  The special features are also quite impressive including a commentary track from the directors Michael Gunton and Martha Holmes. I loved hearing there additional insight and makes for a great repeat viewing.  There is a Behind-the Scenes look and also a Making-of featurette included with some great additional footage.  There are interviews discussing the film and what it took to put together.  Lastly there is a Blu-ray exclusive “Mike Gunton on ‘One Life'”, which has the director chatting about his inspiration and all the work that went into the film.

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Actors: Evelyne Kraft, Alex Rocco, Hari Rhodes, Asher Brauner, Kitty Bruce
Directors: Ho Meng-hua, Arthur Marks, Jack Hill
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lionsgate
DVD Release Date: April 16, 2013
Run Time: 287 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When Tarantino and Miramax started Rolling Thunder Pictures back in 1995, it was a label that was meant to release lost gems and fan favorites that haven’t seen the light of day in a long time, generally cult classics. This triple feature DVD release showcases Tarantino favorites from the label including “Detroit 9000 (1973)”, “The Mighty Peking Man (1977)” and “Switchblade Sisters (1975)”. These films are classic exploitation flicks and should be a must see for all fans of that genre. I really had a blast revisiting these titles and I am sure you will too, whether you are watching for the fifth time or the very first time!!

Like Tarantino himself, one of my first jobs was working at a mom and pop video store. It was one of my favorite jobs that I have ever had and I even met my wife working there. I remember when these films were re-released on VHS, that’s right VHS, under this label. I was responsible for ordering at the video store and I was sure to stock up on these three titles when they were re-released back then. This DVD is a nice way to own these three cult classics again and you really can’t describe it better than it is on the box “See the Action! Feel the Passion!” No-brainer for any fan of exploitation films.

“Detroit 9000” Official Premise: Jam-packed with nonstop action, sexy distractions and funky music, this hip crime story follows two Detroit cops, whose pursuit of a dangerous gang responsible for a high-society heist ignites a powder keg of corruption and violence!

“The Mighty Peking Man” Official Premise: Treat yourself to one of the funniest and campiest movies ever made: The Mighty Peking Man! After a colossal ape-like creature is captured in the jungle and brought to civilization – along with the scantily clad blonde bombshell he protects – the fearsome beast breaks loose and goes looking for giant-size payback!

“Switchblade Sisters” Official Premise: A riotously entertaining mix of sex, jealousy and massive firepower, Jack Hill’s Switchblade Sisters is the action-packed story of the toughest gang of teenage girls to ever hit the streets – the Dagger Debs. Bad to the bone, these outrageous high school vixens go where they want…and create mayhem wherever they go!

Even though I would have loved to see this triple feature released on Blu-ray instead of DVD.  The transfers are still good…or at least good enough since they still have that grindhouse gritty feel. All three of the film are presented in 16×9 Widescreen with various aspect ratios. “The Mighty Peking Man” is presented with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 with a Dolby Digital 2.0 track, which is the most impressive on the release. “Detroit 9000” is presented with an aspect ratio 1.78:1 with a Dolby Digital Mono track. Lastly, “Switchblade Sisters” is presented with an aspect ratio also with a Dolby Digital Mono track.  There are no additional special features included on this release besides the films themselves. Would have loved to seen some 42nd street style trailer included for these titles at least.

Actors: Meryl Streep
Directors: Louie Schwartzberg
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: April 16, 2013
Run Time: 80 minutes

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

I have been a huge fan of Disneynature since their very first film “Earth”. Since then the studio has been releasing amazing new films each year like “Oceans”, “African Cats” and “Chimpanzee”. 2013 is the first year since Disneynature has not had a film in theaters since they started with “Earth”. But luckily we get “Wings of Life” which is the latest documentary arriving on Blu-ray just in time to celebrate Earth Day. This looks into the inside world of butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and bats and their relationship with flowers. I think this film would have had potential for a theatrical release but I understand why it was held back. The film is visual amazing and very dramatic but it really does have the catch to draw in the kids like “Chimpanzee” or “African Cats” did. Either way the film is still quite beautiful, visually stunning and to top it off perfectly narrated by Meryl Streep.

Official Premise: Disneynature presents a close-up look at the unsung heroes of our planet. Wings Of Life reveals the intricate worlds of bees, butterflies, birds, and bats. Our life on Earth relies on these incredible creatures, as more than one-third of our world’s food supply is dependent on them. Yet we are increasingly threatening their lives, and if they should suddenly disappear, we may too. Directed by Louie Schwartzberg, Wings Of Life takes us on an adventure to reveal this spectacular world that is right in front of us, yet rarely seen in such incredible detail.

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment delivered a wonderful release here with a Blu-ray + DVD combo pack.  The 1080p transfer looks simply perfect.  You can see every single piece of pollen on the flowers, every detail of the insects and birds.  I was left like with all Disneynature films with my mouth wide open at the amazing details. The high-speed cinematography is just stunning.  You are able to be given a super close look into this world, while still looking stay in very sharp high definition image. Breathtaking is the only way to describe it. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 also is a perfect compliment to the film.  The charming and inspiring score drives the film, as well as its drama and action moments.  Meryl Streep’s voice is also well-balanced and strong. My only disappointment here is that there are no extras included besides a sneak peek at Disneynature’s 2014 next theatrical film “Bears”.  Although the film does look quite amazing! Next year cannot come any sooner!

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Actors: Vic Mignogna, Maxey Whitehead, Alexis Tipton
Directors: Mike McFarland
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Funimation Prod
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Run Time: 110 minutes

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

I have been a fan of “Fullmetal Alchemist” since day one.  I really enjoyed “Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos”.  I thought it was a great entry in the animes universe. The focuses on our heroes Alfonse and Edward but also introduces a bunch of other great new characters.  I did notice how they did shift the focus of the film to one of the newbies, Julia and focused some of the story on her. But I thought it still worked well and kept me very entertained and interested throughout. The series has never looked better in my eyes and I really hope that they are planning future films, maybe with Julia again (hint hint). If you are a fan of the series, this comes highly recommended.

Official Premise: A fugitive alchemist with mysterious abilities leads the Elric brothers to a distant valley of slums inhabited by the Milos, a proud people struggling against bureaucratic exploitation. Ed and Al quickly find themselves in the middle of a rising rebellion, as the exiled Milos lash out against their oppressors. At the heart of the conflict is Julia, a young alchemist befriended by Alphonse. She’ll stop at nothing to restore the Milos to their former glory – even if that means harnessing the awful power of the mythical Philosopher’s Stone.

FUNimation Entertainment has been very kind of the “Fullmetal Alchemist” series and “The Sacred Star of Milos” is no different.  It delivers a stunning presentation within its 1080p transfer and 1.78:1 aspect ratio.. The colors are very sharp and bright. Like with the last movie in the series, this one also includes both the original Japanese language track and my favorite, the English dub with very impressive Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround tracks.  I just love the English cast from the series and this is a rare time when I prefer over the original language. The action is well-used with either track and works perfectly with the films non-stop action.

The special features are seem like they don’t come with much but I enjoyed what they had quite a bit. “Fullmetal Alchemist: Making of Sacred Star of Milos” is a very solid hour long behind-the-scenes look into the production of the film. It is in Japanese with English subtitles. There is a fantastic commentary track from the English dub cast including Maxey Whitehead (Alfonse), Christopher R. Sabat (Armstrong), Vic Mignogna (Ed), and many others from the crew. Lastly there is a U.S. Trailer, Web Promo, and TV Spot included. What I like most about this film is that you don’t really need to know the series that well to be able to enjoy and follow unlike the last movie “Conqueror of Shamballa”. Don’t miss this!

Actors: Romi Pak, Rie Kugimiya, Shun Oguri, Kazuko Kato, Masane Tsukayama
Directors: Seiji Mizushima, Mike McFarland
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: November 17, 2009
Run Time: 105 minutes

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

When “Fullmetal Alchemist” completed its 51 episode run, I was left dying for more…as was every other fan. “Conqueror of Shamballa” is our answered prayer. Of course this was before the second series “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” was developed. There is one catch though, you would have had to watch the original series first before watching this, since it picks up right after the end. There is no explanation of the the storyline or back story of the characters, so be sure to watch the series first unless you will feel lost. Nonetheless, this movie is an epic conclusion to the series and a perfect compliment to the series. If you’re a fan of the “Fullmetal Alchemist” series, then this is a must watch!

Official Premise: It is 1923 in Munich. Two years have passed since Edward Elric’s sacrifice ripped him out of his world and into ours, separating him from his younger brother, Alphonse. In that time, Ed’s continued research into rocketry has allied him with Alphonse Heiderich, a fellow researcher who oddly resembles Ed’s brother. Progress has been slow, however, and Ed has become discouraged. But when he saves a quiet Gypsy girl with the power to read minds, Ed is quickly pulled into a plot by the Thule Society and the burgeoning Nazi Party that could drag both worlds into a terrible war. Back in his own world, Al has been unlocking new secrets of alchemy and gaining incredible powers, all in the hopes of finding Ed. Battling the occult, ideological extremists, and monstrous Homunculi lurking in the shadows, can the brothers find a way to reunite without causing chaos and bloodshed? What will happen when the world of alchemy and the world of modern science collide?

FUNimaton Entertainment is known for delivering very sharp Blu-ray releases.  The 1080p transfer is quite impressive.  The animation on the film seems different from the series but still looks good. Since the film is so epic the action is well portrayed and looks impressive. There are two audio tracks on this release. The English track, Dolby TrueHD 5.1, is preferred and easily takes the win on this release. The English voice cast has become so recognizable and fan favorite for the series. The Japanese track also includes a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track and hardcore fans will still enjoy and appreciate, but I have to go with the English track here.

The special features are very impressive for the film. There are three full-length audio commentary tracks. The first is with director Seiji Mizushima, Kugimiya Rie (Al), Toyoguchi Megumi (Winry), and Park Romi (Ed). The second is with Seiji Mizushima, Miyahara Yohei (technical director), and Oyabu Yoshihiro (production desk). The last is hosted by Mike McFarland (Jean Havoc) and Colleen Clinkenbeard (Riza Hawkeye/Rose Thomas) and plays more like a voice over interview with cast chatting over the film. There is a 40 minutes “The Making of Fullmetal Alchemist: Conqueror of Shamballa”, the featurette includes interviews with director Seiji Mizushima and packs some nice behind the scenes clips. “Talk Session with Seiji Mizushima, Romi Park, Rei Kugimiya, and Toru Okawa” is a sit down with the director and voice cast from the series to chat about the film and the series. There were also seven trailers for “Conqueror of Shamballa” and some production art.

Actors: Maxey Whitehead, Vic Mignogna, Christopher Sabat, Caitlin Glass, Travis Willingham
Directors: Caitlin Glass, Mike McFarland
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Run Time: 60 minutes

OVA Collection: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Since the very first episode, I have been a life long fan of the anime series “Fullmetal Alchemist”. So when I saw that there was an OVA collection available for the series, I couldn’t wait to see it. There are four short episodes included on this release are “The Blind Alchemist”, “Simple People”, “Chronicle of the Teacher”, “Yet Another Man’s Battlefield”. Being such a big fan of the show, I have to admit though I was a little disappointed in these since they are rather forgettable. But I do not think it matter much since hardcore fans of the show should be excited to get an extra content that they can.

Official Premise: Amazing secrets and startling facts are exposed for the first time in the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood OVA Collection, a new assortment of stories set in never-before-seen corners of the FMA universe. Join Ed and Al as they chase rumors of successful human transmutation into a web of shocking family drama and lies. Sneak a glance at hidden sides of Winry and Hawkeye’s personalities. Survive the frigid north with a young Izumi Curtis as she fights to gain a deeper understanding of alchemy. Explore the legendary friendship shared by Mustang and Hughes and watch them grow from military school rivals into hardened brothers transformed by the horrors of the Ishvalan War. You thought you knew the whole story. You thought all the tales were told. The Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood OVA Collection offers proof: You were wrong.

FUNimation Entertainment has delivered a wonderful release here. The OVA shorts look beautiful with their 1080p transfers and are presented in 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Like past high definition presentations in the “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” franchise, FUNimation has delivered again.  The colors are vibrant and looks very sharp.  There are two audio tracks on this release.  Believe it or not the English: Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track takes the cake on this release.  The English voice cast has become so recognizable and fan favorite for the site. The Japanese track only includes a Dolby TrueHD 2.0 audio, but hardcore fans will still enjoy.  In terms of special features we get 16 short commercials in “Fullmetal Four Panel Comic Theater”, which adds up to over 40 minutes of footage. They are specifically made for laughs and are quite funny.