Actors: Takeru Shibuya, Hikari Mitsushima, Tamaki Ogawa, Teruyuki Kagawa
Directors: Takashi Shimizu
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Well Go USA
DVD Release Date: April 2, 2013
Run Time: 83 minutes

Film: 1.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

When it comes to Japanese horror, the name Takashi Shimizu stands out and can carry a lot of wait. He is the genius behind amazing horror films like “Ju-On” and “The Grudge”. “Ju-On” is one of the only horror films (besides “Insidious”) that still gives me nightmares. Though recently his films have been nothing but disappointing. His last film, “The Shock Labyrinth”, was his first attempt at 3D and was also his worst film to date. At first I was thrilled for a 3D horror film from the dude that made “The Grudge”. Boy, was I wrong. But being a sucker for 3D horror, I was still excited for “Tormented 3D”. I figured how couldn’t mess up twice in a row…could he? Damn, this film was worse than the last one.

The horror factor in the film is at the level of a PG rated film. While watching there were several moments that I was waiting for the jump moment and it just passed right by. I am not what he was aiming to do here but he completely missed the mark. This film is being blended as a terrifying tale but then they have the main villain as a giant human sized person in a bunny costume. There is literally nothing creepy or scary about that at all. To make it worse, Shimizu connects his last film, “The Shock Labyrinth” together with this one using the actually film in parts and used the same sets and even shot for shot takes.

Official Premise: Daigo doesn’t speak anymore. Not since he killed that rabbit on the playground at school. His sister, Kiriko, is worried. He’s bullied. He sleepwalks. And their father is no help, trapped in his own grief and illustrating fantasy worlds where families are happily reunited and no one dies. They never should have gone to that 3D movie. The one with the stuffed rabbit that floated out of the screen. Now Daigo is missing. He’s in danger, and Kiriko will have to follow him into a world of nightmares to discover the truth. And the truth is worse than any dream. From the legendary director of THE GRUDGE, Takashi Shimizu takes an unflinching look into childhood fears, the ties that hold a family together, and bloody secrets that won’t stay dead.

The 3D presentation on this film is actually quite terrible. There is some major ghosting happening throughout various scenes whenever depth is added. For instance, when they are in the hospital and going up the stairs, I literally had to take my glasses off since it was that disrupting. I had a similiar issue with the 3D in “The Shock Labyrinth” and I would have thought that Shimizu would have worked out the bugs. The Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is not bad though but since there is little suspense or scares, it doesn’t get a good work out. There is no English dub track included, nor are there any special features besides a trailer. I will be thinking twice before being sucked into another Takashi Shimizu film. Fool me once, shame on you! Fool me twice, shame on me!

Directed by: Guy Vasilovich
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 22 minutes

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

I love the idea of “LEGO Star Wars”. I have various pieces built together all over my home office. When they made the feature, “LEGO Star Wars: The Padawan Menace”, I was head over heals. It was released in a beautiful Blu-ray/Combo pack with a limited edition Han Solo character. That brings be to wonder for this release, Why no Blu-ray? That is one thing that I am caught up for this release (would have been a 5/5 rating). Why release one in high def and not the other. If you can get over that than this is absolutely hysterical and a must own for any “Star Wars fan”. There is so much crammed in the short 22-minute feature that you are left wanting more but at the same time absolutely satisfied.

Official Premise: Your favorite characters are back to save the galaxy in LEGO Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out. The heroes of the Rebel Alliance including heroic Luke Skywalker, swaggering Han Solo and steadfast Princess Leia have no time to celebrate their victory over the Empire as a new Imperial threat arises. But as Jedi-in-training Luke embarks on this next mission, he discovers that his celebrity status as a “Death-Star-Blower-Upper” can be a double-edged lightsaber when he’s constantly mobbed by crazed fans. So much for secret missions! Meanwhile, Darth Vader and Darth Maul are locked in a hilarious “Sith-ling” rivalry as they compete for the Emperor’s approval. It’s an action-packed comic adventure that’s out of this world!

To be honest, I am shocked that they even got to release this film now that Disney owns Lucasfilm. They already canceled “The Clone Wars” and shelved “Detours”, so I am just happy that they didn’t shelf this as well. I do hope that Disney smartens up and that they are planning more of these “LEGO Star Wars” features because they are so much fun. “The Empire Strikes Out” packs some very funny yet witty slapstick humor. Fans can also expect your favorite LEGO Star Wars characters. Just because this title is related to “Empire Strikes Back”, we still get our favorites like Darth Maul, Ahsoka Tano and many more who pop in for a laugh or two.

Written by Emmy Award winner Michael Price (“The Simpsons”), the feature includes voices from series regulars including Anthony Daniels, Ahmed Best, Tom Kane and  Sam Witwer appear as the voices of C-3PO, Jar Jar Binks, Yoda and Darth Maul. Also a bunch of other veterans return including Kenneth Colley, Brian Blessed, Andrew Secombe and Julian Glover, whom reprise their roles of Admiral Piett, Boss Nass, Watto and General Veers, respectively. “The Empire Strikes Out” was dedicated in memory of Ralph McQuarrie, the designer of the original trilogy, who recently passed away. Lastly I haven’t forgotten  the DVD will include an exclusive collectible Darth Vader w/Metal LEGO minifigure. So that is easily worth the $10 price point alone.

Starring: Toby Jones, Sienna Miller, Imelda Staunton, Penelope Wilton
Directed by: Julian Jarrold
Distributed by: HBO Home Entertainment
MPAA Rating: TV-14
Running Time: 90 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“Blondes make the best victims.  They’re like virgin snow that shows up the bloody footprints” – Alfred Hitchcock

When it comes to HBO Films, I don’t care about the topic or anything, I am immediately interested. They always seem to impress with their high profile cast and edgy and in-your-face films, for example the recent “Hemingway and Gellhorn”. “The Girl” was nominated for three Golden Globes including Best Actor, Actress and Motion Picture – Made for Television. The film focuses on Alfred Hitchcock’s obsessive relationship with Tippi Hedren, his leading lady in “The Birds” and “Marnie”. “The Girl” stars Toby Jones as Hitchcock and Sienna Miller as Hedren. Both actors did marvelous jobs. They were both very committed to the roles and delivered an intense performance. I was blown away with Jones’ portrayal of good ole “Hitch”. Everything from his look, to this walk or that voice was a real score. Move over Anthony Hopkins! If you are a fan of Hitchcock, do not miss this release.

Official Premise: “The Girl” tells the story of the director’s obsessive relationship with his leading lady during the making of The Birds and Marnie. As he attempted to sculpt Hedren into the perfect blonde of his imagination, Hitchcock became obsessed with the impossible dream of winning the real woman’s love. Her rejection of his misguided attempts only added to his obsession, putting both their careers and personal lives in jeopardy. “The Girl” is a complex tale of power, obsession, and the price exacted for stardom.

I am a little disappointed with this film’s release, not the actual release itself but the fact that is only being released made to order on DVD, thanks to Warner Archive. HBO has had great success with their original films and I would have loved to see this get a proper DVD and even Blu-ray. The transfer looks stunning with its 16X9 widescreen aspect ratio. The audio track packs nice Dolby Digital 5.1 surround track, which is a step up from previous Warner Archive releases. The only special features included is an interview with Tippi Hedren, the star of the original “The Birds” and Marnie”. She reflects on working with Hitchcock and related to the film. It is way too short though and only runs about three minutes. I would have loved to see more extras surround this film itself with featurettes on the production, interviews with Sienna Miller and Toby Jones and even a commentary track.

Directed by: Ralph Bakshi
Starring: Richard Romanus, David Proval, Jesse Welles, Tina Bowman
Distributed by Warner Archive
Release Date: April 2nd, 2013
MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 77 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Hey Good Lookin'” is written, produced and directed by one of my favorites Ralph Bakshi, who is the man behind film’s like “Fritz The Cat”, “Wizards” and “American Pop”. There is a lot of back story behind the production of “Hey Good Lookin'”. The film was originally shot and delivered back in 1974 as a live-action/animated combination, eight years before it was finally released in 1982. Originally only the main characters were animated and the rest were portrayed by live actors. The final version of the film is quite different with most of the live-action sequences taking out with animated scenes replacing them. The original version remains unreleased and will probably never see the light of day. Either way I love Bakshi’s style of animated and this film is no different.  I love the 50’s setting and the animation still holds up well after over 30 years. Don’t miss this release!

Offical Premise: From Cool World creator Ralph Bakshi, Hey Good Lookin’ is an outrageous, nostalgic and adult take on a more innocent time. Well, not that much more innocent: not every street corner was a Happy Days setting. Our hero, Vinnie, leader of the ragtag gang known as the Brooklyn Stompers, plays it cool. His lady, Roz, thinks he’s the most wonderful thing on two legs. And his off-the-wall, hot-wired friend Crazy Shapiro would die for the honor of Vinnie and the gang. They’re all sympathetic and familiar characters turned loose in a funky, surreal cartoon landscape that really packs a punch, just as the ‘50s-styled soundtrack of original songs by John Madara and Ric Sandler evokes playful memories. With Fritz the Cat, Heavy Traffic and Cool World, Bakshi made animation history mixing mature themes and hip humor. If you know his work, then Hey Good Lookin’ is up your alley.

This film is released for the first time on DVD, thanks to Warner Archive.  It is only available via Warner Archive on a made to order basis.  The transfer of the film looks quite amazing on DVD with an sweet widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The animation really looks sharp and the line detail is well presented and restored. The colors are very sharp and pop off the screen.  The audio track included is a Dolby Digital Mono track and works well with the dialogue and the film’s music. I would have loved to seen Warner Archive give this film the Blu-ray treatment like they have been doing with some of their releases. But at least this film finally gets a decent DVD release and a chance to get the attention it well-deserves. Lastly, besides a trailer, there are no additional extras or special features included.

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Starring: Josh Stewart, Christopher McDonald, Navi Rawat, Lee Tergesen
Director: Marcus Dunstan
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 82 minutes

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

In 2009, Marcus Dunstan co-wrote and directed a horror film called “The Collector” along with Patrick Melton.  The two of them are no stranger to horror writing (Feast” series, “Saw 4-7”). They reunited on the sequel to “The Collector” called “The Collection”.  This film is much more brutal and in your face that the first go-round. There is something called excessive gratuitous violence and this film is not afraid to go there.  Is it too much? Maybe but this film is really sticks to its guns and is pretty fearless.  “The Collection” stars Josh Stewart (“The Dark Knight Rises”), the film also stars Emma Fitzpatrick (“The Social Network”), Lee Tergesen (HBO’s “Oz”) and Christopher McDonald (HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire”).  If you like films like “Saw”, then get ready cause this film will have you rooting for more yet at the same time cringing.

Official Premise: When Elena (Fitzpatrick) is talked into attending an underground warehouse party with her friends, she finds herself caught in a nightmarish trap where the revelers are mowed, sliced and crushed to death by a macabre series of contraptions operated by a masked psychopath. When the grisly massacre is over, Elena is the only survivor. But before she can escape, she is locked in a trunk and transported to an unknown location. Fortunately for Elena, one man-Arkin (Stewart) -knows exactly where she’s headed, having just escaped from there with his life and sanity barely intact. Elena’s wealthy father hires a crack team of mercenaries to force Arkin to lead them to the killer’s lair. But even these hardened warriors are not prepared for what they encounter.

“The Collection” looks actually quite stunning on Blu-ray courtesy of Lionsgate Films. The 1080p transfer delivers with its 2.34:1 aspect ratio. If you are not a fan of blood and gore then get ready but they in your face with this high definition release. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track really working with horror action and of course Charlie Clouser score. The special features are good as well. There is an audio commentary track with Director/Writer Marcus Dunstan and Writer Patrick Melton, whom are rather engaging. There are five Featurettes included on the production including “A Director’s Vision”, “Makeup and Effects of ‘The Collection'”, “Production Design”, “Special Effects of ‘The Collection'” and “Stunts of ‘The Collection'”. Lastly there are three alternate scenes and a theatrical trailer included.

Starring: Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, Marisa Tomei, Bailee Madison, Tom Everett Scott
Director: Andy Fickman
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 105 minutes

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

When “Parental Guidance” was released in theaters, I had zero interest in seeing it. I thought that it would come and go from theaters without making any splash. But surprise, surprise the film was a real success and captured by interest.  “Parental Guidance” reals packs a sharp cast. Billy Crystal, Bette Midler and Marisa Tomei really deliver some very funny and heart-felt performances. Andy Fickman has the family comedy down after 2010’s “You Again”. Maybe it is because I just had a child last year but the idea of the grandparents babysitting has a whole new meaning for me…and very funny. There is tons of fun to have with this film and I would recommend it for the whole family.

Official Premise: Billy Crystal, Bette Midler and Marisa Tomei prove that laughter is relative in this hilarious comedy that’s fun for the whole family! Old-school grandparents Artie (Crystal) and Diane (Midler) get more than they bargained for when they get stuck babysitting their type-A daughter’s (Tomei) overprotected kids. But things go from hectic to hysterical when Artie realizes the kids are running the house with their newfangled technology. By playing by his own rules, which include sugary snacks, old fashioned games and tough love, Artie manages to outsmart the kids and achieve the impossible- bring the family closer together!

Fox has delivered a very impressive release. It comes as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Digital Copy.  The 1080p video transfer works well with the comedy and looks sharp.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track works with the comedy and jokes. The dialogue is clear and sounds great. The special features are not bad at all for this release.  There is an Audio Commentary track with Director Andy Fickman and Billy Crystal.  It is informative and funny.  There is a Blu-ray exclusive extra presented from FXM Productions called “In Character with Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, Marisa Tomei”, which has the talent talking about their roles. Lastly there is a few decent Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Director Andy Fickman, as well as a very funny Gag Reel.

Starring: Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna, Chauncey Leopardi, Karen Allen, Marty York
Director: David Mickey Evans
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

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

I remember watching “The Sandlot” in theaters when I was a kid and being inspired to play baseball. This year “The Sandlot” is celebration it’s 20th Anniversary. It is very hard to believe that this film has been around for 20 years. “The Sandlot” is one of those films that doesn’t get old and ages very well. Since this is an anniversary release, I was hoping for the anniversary treatment, especially since this film was already released on Blu-ray back in 2011, but was left disappointed with the release…but not the film obviously. In terms of Blu-ray, this is a same release from 2011 with a new slipcase. If you don’t own this yet then it will easily be worth the upgrade from DVD.

The game, the cast and the music. “The Sandlot” has everything a coming-of-age story needs to succeed. This film comes with wonderful performances from its nine terrific young actors and amazing supporting appearances from James Earl Jones (“Field of Dreams”, “Star Wars” series), Denis Leary (“Rescue Me”, “The Ref”) and Karen Allen (“Raiders of the Lost Ark”). I should point out that there is one new thing about this release that differs it from the 2011 Blu-ray this comes with limited edition packaging and 10 collectible cast baseball cards. The cards are fun if you are a fan of the film for sure (but still not worth a double dip in my eyes).

Official Premise: When fifth-grader Scotty Smalls moves to a new town with his folks, he strikes out with the neighborhood kids, because he can’t even throw a baseball until the leader of the local sandlot team shows him the ropes. It’s the beginning of a magical summer of wild adventures, first kisses, hilarious hijinks and fearsome confrontations with the dreaded “beast” that lives behind the left field fence. The Sandlot has major-league laughs for all ages!

“The Sandlot” comes with an amazing 1080p transfer just like the last Blu-ray release. The transfer is sharp and really captures the essence of the baseball field. The film also boasts a very impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. The dialogue is perfectly balanced and you can little here every swinging bat and scream from the Beast. The disc also includes an English Dolby Digital 2.0 classic track, but the prior is preferred. The special features are where the letdown really kicks in since it is an yet another port of the (lacking) bonus features from past DVD editions. There is a very featurette, which runs just over five minutes. Lastly (yes, already), there is the film’s theatrical trailer and some TV Spots.

In connection with the release, FHE will embark on a partnership with Benny the Jet’s favorite shoe brand PF Flyers, for a special one-of-a-kind promotion. Beginning March 26, a limited run of “The Secret Weapon,” will be made available inside a vintage 1960’s shoe box, along with a $3 SANDLOT coupon inside. The Blu-ray also features a 10% PF Flyer discount coupon inside the packaging. Further information on this exclusive purchase can be found at www.pfflyers.com.

Actors: Richard Ian Cox, Moneca Stori, Kirby Morrow, Kelly Sheridan, Jillian Michaels
Directors: Toshiya Shinohara
Number of discs: 2
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Viz Media
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 380 minutes

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

When I started watching “InuYasha” back in the early 2000’s, I was immediately hooked. I couldn’t get enough of the show.  I would watch episodes over and over just to get my fix while I waited for new episodes each week. These films are extremely epic and fit very well within the series. I also really enjoyed the show in the longer format. The typical 30 minute episode was great but I was always left immediately wanting to watch another episode. This is the first time that these films are available on “high-def” (more on that below) Blu-ray. If you are a fan of the show it should be a no-brainer in order to get your “InuYasha” fix.

So back to the beginning, in 2001, my prayers were answered with the first “InuYasha” movie. A movie version of my favorite anime? Count me in! The films fit right in between the series. The first movie took place between episodes 54 and 55. Luckily Sunrise was smart and replicated this success the following year in 2002 with the second film, which takes place between episodes 95 & 96. The same goes for the third film which came out in 2003 and ran between episodes 136 and 137.  The last film premiered in 2004 and premiered not too long after the last episode of the “InuYasha” aired.

InuYasha the Movie: Affections Touching Across Time: 200 years ago, InuYasha’s father sealed away a powerful demon from China named Hyoga. A Shikon Jewel shard awakens Hyoga’s son, Menomaru, inspiring him to absorb the remains of his father’s power to take control of the world. It’s up to InuYasha and his friends to stop this nearly invincible foe!

InuYasha the Movie 2: The Castle Beyond the Looking Glass: With their greatest foe seemingly defeated, Inuyasha and his friends begin to return to their lives. But their short period of peace is once again shattered as a new enemy begins to emerge. Kaguya, the self-proclaimed Princess from the Moon of legend, begins a plan to plunge the world into a perpetual night of the full moon. Inuyasha, Kagome, Miroku, Sango and Shippo must once again unite to face the new threat.

InuYasha the Movie 3: Swords of an Honorable Ruler: Many years ago, the Great Dog Demon wielded the Three Swords of the Fang. Upon his death, he bequeathed a sword to each of his sons, Inuyasha and Sesshomaru, leaving the third sword, the wrath-filled Sounga, locked away forever. Now that the Sounga’s power has been awakened, these two battling brothers must put away their sibling rivalry and face off against a force that spells doom for all mankind!

InuYasha the Movie 4: Fire on the Mystic Island: Within the dark recesses of Horai Island, a group of half-demons lives under the demonic rule of the Four War Gods. Escaping with barely a shred of hope, Ai, the youngest of the half-demons, returns to the island with Inuyasha, who must face not only the Four War Gods, but the past he left behind on the island fifty years ago.

Now onto the Blu-ray itself, Viz Media has done a wonderful job with releasing the latest series of “InuYasha: The Final Act” on Blu-ray prior to this. I was really hoping for the same thing with “InuYasha: The Movie – The Complete Collection” but was a left a bit disappointed.  The films are only presented in 1080i, which is technically high definition but it is a bit of a cop out for a Blu-ray release.  It still looks good with sharp colors and line details but you can see the difference clearly that it is not full HD.

The audio tracks are a step up from prior “InuYasha” releases.  There is both an English and Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.  This is a step up from the releases for “InuYasha: The Final Set”.  The 5.1 tracks really capture the scale of these films and work with the non-stop action.  I have to admit, I couldn’t really choose a favorite track.  The Japanese works best with since it feels the most authentic but I love the voice cast with from the English dub as well.  There are also English and Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks.

So on this release, we get four films but really no major special features. There is only one extra on this release from any of the films, which would be “Production Sketches”.  I did enjoying looking at this artwork but I would have loved to seen much more.  There is no commentary tracks or featurettes included, which is very disappointing.  I am not sure what it is about anime Blu-ray releases but they never come with any decent special features.

Starring: Kira Tozer, Kappei Yamaguchi, Richard Ian Cox, Satsuki Yukino, Kôji Tsujitani, Hôko Kuwashima
Directors: Yasunao Aoki
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Viz Media
DVD Release Date: November 20, 2012/ February 12, 2013
Run Time: 325 minutes per set

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

“InuYasha: The Final Act ” is an anime series that draws inspiration from the last volumes of author Rumiko Takahashi’s popular mangas. “InuYasha” one of the most successful anime titles of the 2000’s. The origianl series end of its run (September 2004 in Japan and October 2006 in the U.S.) after 167 episodes and four movies. This final act series picks up right and picks up after left the series ended abruptly. This Sunrise produced series game this show the ended it deserved with this 26-episode series. “The Final Act ” is a real answer to many fans prayers. Viz Media is releasing this series in two separate sets each with 13 episodes.

What is the best part of “InuYasha: The Final Act” is that it will not only appeal to the most longtime InuYasha fans but it should also be able to win over a new group of fans. The characters and plot design is well formed so that you are able to figure out is going on without the having seen the prior series.  Obviously, if you are a fan you will appreciate that the Japanese dub returns with most of its principal cast.  Though the English dub was a different story. The major change is Kira Tozer taking over the role of Kagome, since Moneca Stori has retired from voice acting. After an episode or two I got used to her voice taking over. Michael Daingerfield, know best for Johann Trinity in “Mobile Suit Gundam 00” does a great job taking over for Sesshomaru.

Set 1 Official Premise: Kagome is an ordinary schoolgirl who finds her destiny linked to the half demon Inuyasha and the powerful Shikon Jewel. In their quest to restore the shattered Shikon Jewel, Inuyasha and Kagome face their ultimate enemy, the demon mastermind Naraku. Meanwhile, Sesshomaru learns the truth behind his sword Tenseiga, and Kikyo discovers a secret that could defeat Naraku. With the jewel nearly complete and in enemy hands, the race to collect the remaining shards intensifies, and an epic battle is brewing on the horizon.

Set 2 Official Premise: Kagome finds her worlds colliding as she struggles to both fight alongside Inuyasha in the past and pass the exam to get into her high school of choice in the present. But with her spiritual powers sealed away, how will she purify the Shikon Jewel before Naraku can absorb it forever? As the battle enters its final stages, Inuyasha and his friends find their strength, loyalties and will to live pushed to impossible limits. And in the end, the final key to Naraku’s and the Jewel’s destruction may lie in nothing more—and nothing less—than the trust between a half demon and a girl from the future.

“InuYasha: The Final Act” comes well presented on Blu-ray thanks to Viz Media. The episodes look sharp with their 1080p transfer in 1.78:1 aspect ratio.  The colors really jump off the screen and line detail is sharp. The audio tracks included are DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 with both the original Japanese and English dub. I would like to say that both tracks are equally impressive. I usually prefer the original Japanese track but the English dub also delivers.  The dialogue and action are well represented. Kaoru Wada returned for the musical score from the previous series and delivers again with a very effective, dramatic and well-orchestrated score. I loved both of the closing songs “With You” by AAA and “Diamond” by alan.

Despite how much I loved this series and the Blu-ray release, I was not a fan of the special features.  There are various production art gallery and various storyboards included on both sets. When it comes to animation, I love seeing artwork. Lastly, there are various Japanese trailers along with their translated credits. I would have loved to see some featurettes on the comparison between the manga and the new series.  Also I would have loved to see some commentary tracks from the English dub discussing taking over for the original cast and their experiences working on the series.

Charles Band is the man behind both Meda Home Entertainment in the late 70’s and Wizard Video in 1980. He recently cleared out his warehouse and uncovered an amazing bunch of big box Wizard Video Collection that have been stuffed away for over 30 years. Shortly after Wizard Video introduced these over-sized “big VHS box” films with titles like “Zombie”, “I Spit On Your Grave” and “Breeders”, this format was returned since retailers were running out of shelf space. The big VHS box has since become a rare collectible! Well the big box is back thanks to Charles Band and Full Moon as they have uncovered 36 features discovery in his warehouse ranging with quantities from 180 boxes to 420 boxes. If you are a fan of these format and these films this is a sale that you do not want to miss as they are mint condition.

These mint boxes include the original program newly duplicated on VHS in a black clam shell included within their original box. Each original box is numbered and signed by Charles Band himself. Over the next nine months, Charles will be releasing this collectibles for the low price of $50.00.  See below for the full schedule of release.  If you don’t think that is enough also found in the collection were original boxes of the first horror video games on the planet, from Wizard Video’s sister company, Wizard Video Games. The Atari 2600 game boxes for Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Halloween will be released TBD 2013 from Full Moon. I can’t wait to see these get a release and fingers crossed that they are going to even include the game cartridges. Fingers crossed again that I will be able to pay the mortgage still after.

I had the privilege of breaking out the old VCR and review the following big box VHS tapes from Wizard Video Collection including “Demoniac (1975)” and “Oasis of the Zombies (1982)”.  I have to tell you it felt quite good giving the VCR some love. I forgot the need for having to blow into a VCR and adjusting the tracking.  But overall it was a wonderful experience and really brought me back to the good ole VHS days.  Having grown up and worked myself in a mom and pop video story in Long Island, NY, the idea that this format still has a life always makes me smile. “Demoniac (1975)” & “Oasis of the Zombies (1982”) are two classic foreign horror films that Wizard acquired and released back in the day.  I remember seeing these boxes on my video store shelf (and not being allowed to rent). This is a feeling that I am going to miss.

“Demoniac (1975)” Official Premise: A defrocked and defamed Catholic priest (played by director Jess Franco) witnesses a series of staged Black Masses complete with phony human sacrifices that drive him insane and send him on a murderous path of redemption to cleanse the streets of the spirit of Satan. His victims, the cast and audience of the show, meet gruesome fates at the hand of the “Sword of the Lord.”

“Oasis of the Zombies (1982)” Official Premise: Robert, a student at an English university, receives word of his father’s unexpected death and returns home to Africa. While reading his father’s dairies, Robert learns of the obsession that led to his death: $6,000,000 in Nazi gold that remains buried at an oasis in the Sahara desert, protected by the restless, rotting souls who died protecting it. Using his inheritance, Robert bands together with three fellow students to wrest the unclaimed fortune from the dunes of the dead!

So the question poses itself, are these releases worth $50.00? You bet your ass they are! They are signed and are a piece of history. “Oasis of the Zombies” was just released on high-def Blu-ray last month from Kino Video. So it is very funny to have watched both of these in the span of a month.  I have to say that I really preferred the VHS copy.  The film has that grindhouse look and feel and yet it really shines on the classic video format. Since this was reproduced, the films itself both look impressive. The VHS transfers really captured the essence of the way these film are was meant to be seen. Sure it looks great on Blu-ray but who doesn’t love that gritty feel. I look forward to checking out other upcoming releases.

Website: www.Wizardvideocollection.com
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Actors: Robert Moloney, Keegan Joyce
Directors: James Bogle
Number of discs: 4
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: May 7, 2013
Run Time: 330 minutes

Series: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

If you are a fan of “Doctor Who”, then you most likely know about his longtime robot pet dog, K-9. This series is a children’s sci-fi/comedy spin-off re-imagined by “Doctor Who” creator Bob Baker. “K9” first made an appearance in the 1977 “Doctor Who” episode “The Invisible Enemy” and has since become an iconic television character. The show is a bit of a stretch for any “Doctor Who” fan. The show isn’t on par with the charm that the series. It is a mix of live action characters with visual-effects, but the episodes don’t come with the highest quality for televsion. As much as I enjoy “Doctor Who”, I feel that this “K-9” would have been better left within in the “Doctor Who” series.

Official Premise: Blasting back into action via a space time manipulator, everyone’s favorite robot dog arrives in late 21st-century London, now scarred by alien intrusion and government rule through their cybernetic police force. With the assistance of teenagers Jorjie, Darius, drifter Starkey and Professor Gryffen, K9 becomes Earth’s front-line defence against dangers threatening from any place – and anytime – in the galaxy! They will have a lot of fun, action, adventure, and some jolts along the way, saving the earth from alien creatures, scary monsters and more than a few nasty humans!

Episode included: Regeneration, Liberation, The Korven, The Bounty Hunter, Sirens of Ceres, Fear Itself, Fall of the House of Gryffen, Jaws of Orthrus, Dream-eaters, The Curse of Anubis, Oroborus, Alien Avatar, Aeolian, The Last Oak Tree, Black Hunger, The Cambridge Spy, Lost Library of Ukko, Mutant Copper, The Custodians, Taphony and The Time Loop, Robot Gladiators, Mind Snap, Angel of the North, The Last Precinct, Hound of the Korven, the Eclipse of the Korven

The 4-DVD set contains all 26 original episodes from the short-lived series. Shout Factory still delivered a nice DVD presentation. The show just back some decent special effects and I would have loved to see this show get the Blu-ray treatment. The special features on the complete series DVD are not that impressive overall. There is a “Interview with K9”, which is fun for kids. “The Making Of K9 Documentary” is a decent yet short behind-the-scenes look into the show. I would have loved to see a few commentary tracks included on the episodes.

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Actors: Brad Pitt, Ray Liotta, Richard Jenkins, Scoot McNairy, Ben Mendelsohn
Directors: Andrew Dominik
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Starz / Anchor Bay
DVD Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 97 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

“Killing Them Softly” is adapted from George V. Higgins’ 1974 novel “Cogan’s Trade”. It is a hitman movie that is disguised under a film about the economic crash. Brad Pitt doesn’t arrive on the screen until around 25 minutes in but he gives a very strong performance along with Scoot McNairy. You may know Scoot from 2010’s “Monsters” and last year’s “Argo”. The film also co-stars Richard Jenkins, James Gandolfini, Ray Liotta, and Sam Shepard.

For the film, Brad Pitt was reunited with director Andrew Dominik after “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”, a film that no one saw. I wasn’t blown away from the film as a whole but I like certain things about it. Besides the acting, I liked it’s gritty feel, the robbery scene was well shot and the slow-mo assassination scene was very neat. I would say watch it for the performances but the film itself isn’t sharp enough to keep your attention.  I would call it a one-timer and in a year I would have forgotten this film every existed.

Official Premise: Adapted from George V. Higgins’ novel and set in New Orleans, Jackie Cogan (Brad Pitt) is an enforcer for the Mob. When a high-stakes Mob protected card game is heisted by some small time crooks Cogan is called in to track them down and restore order to the local criminal economy.

The special features are disappointing to say the least.  There are only four deleted scenes that add up to less than ten minutes. Lastly there is a “Making of Killing Me Softly” featurette but it only runs five minutes, which is way to shot to give a behind-the-scenes look.  The DVD release also doesn’t come with any digital copies like the Blu-ray release.  I would have hoped for at least an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy to be included.

Actors: Ross Noble, Tommy Knight
Directors: Conor McMahon
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Dark Sky Films
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Run Time: 87 minutes

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

Who isn’t afraid of clowns…I would like to thank “Stephen King’s It” for sealing that deal many many years ago. Coulrophobia is the fear of clowns. “Stitches” is a pretty fun slasher flick with a nod to 80’s horror. Ross Noble, who plays Stitches, is a real life comedian but isn’t very funny in the film despite being a clown. But since it is horror, I will give it some slack but who doesn’t love a wise-cracking villain ala Freddy Kreuger. Tommy Knight (known for his “Doctor Who” fame) is a nice addition the cast though. There is definitely no shortage of gore and some fun kills if you can look past the occasional CG blood. Not the best killer clown flick but still worth a watch. I would recommend this as a rental for horror fans.

Official Premise: Ten years after a prank on his birthday left hired clown Stitches dead on his kitchen floor, Tommy’s childhood friends gather to plan one last birthday party to end all parties. But they didn’t count on the degenerate jester returning from the grave to seek vengeance on the children who caused his untimely end. Now Tommy and his friends are on the run from an undead jokester who’s ready to use every trick in the book to exact his revenge. Dead Meat director Conor McMahon delivers a delirious slasher with STITCHES, the hilariously twisted and blood soaked tale of one very bad clown.

The film looks good enough with its Blu-ray presentation. The 1080p transfer looks very good with its 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The dark scenes are well crafted to add that necessary eerie effects. Keeping with the eerie effects, there are two audio options available to assist with the hororr sound. There is a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and a Dolby Digital 2.0 track. They are both impressive but I think the 5.1 track deliver the score and action the best. The special features are not bad either for this release. There is a 35 minute Q&A at the film’s premiere with Ross Noble and director McMahon. There is a 20 minute “The Making of Stitches” featurette looking into the production. Lastly there is a gag reel, theatrical trailer and a picture gallery included.

Actors: Tak Sakaguchi, Mari Hoshio, Miho Ninagawa, Takamasa Suga
Directors: Yudai Yamaguchi
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Well Go USA
Release Date: April 9, 2013
Run Time: 99 minutes

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

Whenever I see the label Sushi Typhoon, I just have to watch whatever film it is like “Mutant Girls Squad” and “Karate-Robo Zaborgar”.  They always deliver and are so hilarious, gory and always offensive.  “Dead Ball” is a very politically incorrect sports splatter comedy. It is director Yudai Yamaguchi’s follow-up to his zombie baseball classic “Battlefield Baseball”. “Dead Ball” also sees the returns of Tak Sakaguchi (“Versus”). Like all Sushi Typhoon films, this is extremely over-the-top and will leave you screaming “What the fuck is going on here!”  If you like those kinds of films, then don’t miss this for a fun time.

Official Premise: Baseball prodigy Jubeh Yakyu (Tak Sakaguchi) is the most feared and dangerous juvenile delinquent in all of Japan. After accidentally causing the death of his father with a super-powered fireball pitch, Jubeh swore off baseball, but his life of crime leaves him in the Pterodactyl Juvenile Reformatory, at the mercy of Headmistress Ishihara, the granddaughter of a World War II Nazi collaborator, and her sadistic assistant, Ilsa. Despite having sworn never to play baseball again, Jubeh is presented with an ultimatum: join the reformatory team, The Gauntlets, in the national tournament, or witness the death of his innocent cellmate. Jubeh is now in a fight for his life against the sexy but deadly “psycho butcher girls” of the St. Black Dahlia High School. These teams are literally playing for blood!

The Blu-ray presentation is solid like most for Well-Go Enterainment.  The 1080p transfer looks sharp and works weith the action in the film.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks also delivers with the action and the zany madness that happens throughout this film. The Blu-ray also only comes with a Japanese audio track with English subs.  I always prefer the Japanese track anyway even through the English dubs sometimes unbearable funny. The special features are good and worth checking it.  Included is a Spinoff Short for the film, “Making of Dead Ball” featurette and some Cast Interviews, all with subtitles.

Actors: Nicole Kidman, Clive Owen, David Strathairn, Rodrigo Santoro, Molly Parker
Director: Philip Kaufman
Studio: HBO Home Entertainment
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Run Time: 154 minutes

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

I am not a subscriber to HBO but I really love their programming.  There films and TV series are so original, bold and frankly, quite ballsy.  “Hemingway & Gellhorn” was nominated for 15 Emmy® Awards and 2 Golden Globe Awards.  I hadn’t heard of this release before the award season but I was drawn to it by its stunning lead cast including Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman and Golden Globe winner Clive Owen. The film recounts the romance between literary legend Ernest Hemingway and famed war correspondent Martha Gellhorn. The film runs over two a half hours and yet I was unable to take my eyes of the screen the entire time.

Nicole Kidman and Clive Owen both give phenomenal performances. They are have great chemistry and really brings the sexy, yet dramatic aspects to their characters. They are assisted with a great and very impressive supporting cast including David Strathairn, Rodrigo Santoro, Molly Parker, Parker Posey, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, Mark Pellegrino, Peter Coyote, Tony Shalhoub and even Jeffrey Jones makes an appearance. This is a real ensemble and everyone contributes to the success of this film.  But honestly, I am not very surprised since when it comes to HBO, they never disappoint and almost always deliver great talent.

Official Premise: Hemingway & Gellhorn recounts one of the greatest romances of the last century – the passionate love affair and tumultuous marriage of literary master Ernest Hemingway and trailblazing war correspondent Martha Gellhorn – as it follows the adventurous writers through the Spanish Civil War and beyond. The combined magnetism of Hemingway and Gellhorn ushered them into social circles that included the elite of Hollywood, the aristocracy of the literary world and the First Family of the United States. As witnesses to history, they covered all the great conflicts of their time, but the war they couldn’t survive was the war between themselves.

HBO is really this film as a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack and the Blu-ray is very impressive.  The 1080p transfer really transports you back in time and really looks sharp.  The film has this raw feel when it most through its timeline and switching between war-time footage. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track works perfectly with the dialogue and the action in the film.  The special features are also worth checking out. There is a very interesting audio commentary with director Philip Kaufman and editor Walter Murch Making.  There are two featurettes including “Making Hemingway & Gellhorn” who looks into the all aspects of the production and also “Behind the Visual Effects” has the cast and crew discuss the effects and keeping it with the historical accurate.