Actors: Freddie Prinze Jr., Monica Rial, Vic Mignogna
Directors: Justin Cook
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: December 28, 2012
Run Time: 84 minutes

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

With “Mass Effect 3” tearing up video game systems right now, fans are in looking for more and more.  Thanks to Bioware and visionary Production I.G, we are delivered “Mass Effect: Paragon Lost”, which is an anime prequel to “Mass Effect 3”.  Production I.G. is known for their work on “Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C.” and “Blood: The Last Vampire”. The anime style is great and really works with the franchise. If you are a fan of the “Mass Effect” series and have played 1 and 2, then this is great way to great introduced  into 3.  Now if you haven’t played any it is still overall an awesome anime and will make you run out and purchase the game ASAP! In fact this month there is a newly released “Mass-Effect Trilogy” for Playstation 3.

Officical Premise: Mass Effect: Paragon Lost follows the early career of Alliance Marine, James Vega. Vega leads an elite Special Forces squad into battle against a mysterious alien threat known as The Collectors. Stationed at a colony in a remote star system, Vega and his soldiers must protect civilians from ruthless invaders determined to capture the population for unknown purposes.  Movie audiences will discover new insights into the Mass Effect universe with an unprecedented glimpse into the haunted past of the franchise’s newest hero.

I have to say with anime, I always prefer a Japanese audio track but “Mass Effect: Paragon Lost” really does features a very sharp English voice cast including Freddie Prinze, Jr., Monica Rial (Deadman Wonderland) and Vic Mignogna (Fullmetal Alchemist).  I still would have liked at least an option for a Japanese track but since this is more of a US release, I understand why it is not included. The real stars of the film though is composers David Kates and Joshua R. Mosley really steal the show with their fantastic score. Kates previously worked on the scores for both “Mass Effect” and “Mass Effect 2”, so he knows the series well. I am sure the score would sound even better with the audio track on the Blu-ray release.

The special features for the film are maybe not a lot in terms of quantity but nothing short in quality.  First we get “All Doors Open: A Look Inside Electronic Arts”, which a nice look into the studio.  I really enjoyed “An Inside Look at the Mass Effect Universe”, this is a really in depth look into how much work was but into the film, including character modeling and designing. I really enjoyed this 13 minute featurette. There is a decent behind-the-scenes featurette with “Directing Effect”, which looks into creating the film from the game with cast/crew interviews – also runs a nice 25 minutes. Lastly there is a trailer included.

Actors: Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, Madonna, Glenne Headly, Mandy Patinkin
Directors: Warren Beatty
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Touchstone Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

When I think of “Dick Tracy”, I immediately get transported back to my grade school school yard back in 1990.  We used to run about the school yard pretending that we were characters from the film.  I even had (and actually still have) school-work folder with the “Dick Tracy” logo.  I had various toys from the film and even shirts.  So is “Dick Tracy”, the best comic book adaption film to date…nope but it has history with me and that is worth the purchase only.

Plus since this film is available on high-def Blu-ray for the very first time, it comes with a hot new digital restoration.  The 1080p transfer really delivers the goods.  The audio track included is DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and works well with the score and the film’s action.  I wish Disney would have given more effort here as well. This film has never looked better (for what it is worth, it’s 1990 come on!).  Fans of this film should definitely check this out, just don’t expect anything in the special features department.

Warren Beatty played the role of Dick Tracy well.  Today he is probably not the best choice but in 1990, he was the bees knees.  Madonna was decent as well and sings a great song “Sooner or Later (I Always Get My Man)”, which won the Oscar that year. But the star of the film is really Al Pacino. I love his take on the character Big Boy. Also who doesn’t love William Forsythe depiction of Flattop. The make-up is this film is awesome and there is no shock that it won the Oscar for Best Makeup that year.

Synopsis: Thecomic strip detective (Beatty) finds his life vastly complicated when Breathless Mahoney (Madonna) makes advances towards him while he is trying to battle Big Boy Caprice’s (Pacino) united mob. Winner of three Academy Awards (1990), including Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Makeup and Best Music (Original Song for “Sooner or Later (I Always Get My Man)”).

This release comes as a combo pack with Blu-ray disc and digital copy. I would have also like to see an DVD copy as well. There are zero special features included on this release, which is very disappointing. I would have loved to at least gotten a trailer or even better the animated short “Roller Coaster Rabbit”, which was released theatrically with this movie. Oh well there is always the 25 anniversary in three years, hint-hint!

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Actors: Ben Stiller, Tim Blake Nelson, David Goldman, Kenan Thompson, Cody Burger, Joseph Wayne Miller
Director: Steven Brill
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Video
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 97 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

I have never been a big fan of “Heavyweights”.  Let’s just say that age does not make this film any better. It features the early writing and executive producing from Judd Apatow, whom I am not a big fan of to begins with.  A little trivia about the film is that it features appearances from the father-mother-son team: Jerry Stiller, Anne Meara, and Ben Stiller. Obviously, this is the best role that Stiller has ever done.  I have a feeling the only reason why Disney is releasing this catalog title on Blu-ray is to cash-in on Apatow’s latest film “This is 40”.  It is not really a film that I would rush out and purchase on high-definition though. I would only recommend for mega-fans of the film only, if not just for the special features.

Synopsis: From the Producer of Bridesmaids…comes Heavyweights, a comedy of enormous proportions! It’s the hilarious story of a group of underdog kids who discover their beloved summer camp has been sold to a crazy fitness fanatic (Ben Stiller) who’s determined to make their lives miserable! The new owner plans to keep the boys huffing and puffing, but these hungry kids have a plan of their own. They unite to turn the tables, take back their woodsy hideaway and challenge the rival camp to themost outrageous summer games of all! You’ll laugh out loud with these Heavyweights – they’re big, loud and proud, and ready to win their way into your heart!

The 1080p video transfer for this release looks good but nothing stunning. The audio track included is a decent DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, which works overall but nothing special either.  Like I said, this isn’t really a film that was yearning for a Blu-ray upgrade. The special features are the best part of the release.  There is a behind-the-scenes feature called “The Making of Heavyweights”. There is a new audio commentary track with Judd Apatow, Steven Brill, Allen Covert, Aaron Schwartz, Shaun Weiss, Tom Hodges and Special Guest Paul Feig.  There are over 30 never-before-seen deleted & extended scenes.  There is a new video chat with Judd Apatow and Kenan Thompson.  There is some fun Super 8 footage of the Cast and Crew.  “Judd’s Art Project” are bizarre photos From the set taken by the executive producer. “Where Are They Now?” looks into the film’s cast and their current status.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

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Actors: Ray Bolger, Ed Wynn, Tommy Kirk, Annette Funicello, Tommy Sands, Ann Jilliann
Directors: Jack Donohue
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

“Babes in Toyland (1961)” is timed perfectly for the Holiday season. This is the first time that this film has been released on Blu-ray. The 1080p transfer looks sharp on this release. Disney has delivered the good for for a film that over 50 years old, it doesn’t show it’s age. The production scale is so memorable and really doesn’t skimp on quality. A little trivia about the film is that this was Disney’s first live-action musical fantasy…and who doesn’t love a nice Disney musical, especially a holiday themed one! This was also produced by Walt Disney himself. This is a perfect film to get in the mood for the holidays!

Official Synopsis: Tom the Piper’s Son is about to marry Mary Quite Contrary. On the eve of their wedding, evil miser Barnaby hires two henchmen to drown Tom and steal Mary’s sheep, cared for by Little Bo Peep, thus depriving Mary and the children she lives with of their livelihood, forcing her to marry Barnaby. The sheep arestolen, but Gonzorgo and Roderigo, Barnaby’s henchmen, double-cross him by selling Tom to a band of gypsies instead, leaving Tom with the opportunity to escape and make his way with Mary, Bo-Peep, and other Mother Goose characters to Toyland.

Like I mentioned the video transfer is sharp for “Babes in Toyland”, which is also presented with an original aspect ratio of 1:33:1. The new digital restoration really delivers the goods and does not disappoint. The audio track is not as impressive though as the video transfer with its Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono surround track. I would have liked to see a little more effort in the audio department here. Also to add insult to injury there are no special features included as well, which really makes this release feel more like a port then an upgrade. This is still worth the low-price for this Blu-ray though, especially for hardcore Disney fans.

Actors: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, LeVar Burton, Marina Spirtis
Number of discs: 5
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Paramount
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 998 minutes

Season Two: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” has become one of my favorite series, but only in the last few years. I got into it thanks to Netflix Instant. When I got a chance to review “Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season One” earlier this year, I was blown away by the way the episodes looked. Well it season two, I believe they went beyond and delivered a more impressive release (if that is possible). Season two also delivers the birth of the fan-favorite baddies, Borg. They are the best villains of the series! Resistance is futile! One of my favorite episodes of the series happen during season two: “The Measure of a Man”. Fans of the series are sure to do back flips for this release.  Also it is perfectly timed to be added to everyone’s Christmas lists and also nicely priced as well, compared to season one.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two” Blu-ray looks extremely impressive with it’s high definition transfer. The series is presented with its original broadcast 4×3 aspect ratio, which is perfect and expected. Like season one, this series contains improved special effects from the original camera negatives. If you are a fan of this series and know it well, you will have your mouth open experience these upgrades. The star of this release though has to be Season Two’s surround-sound pumping DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. Obviously the soundtrack wasn’t made with that but I can’t help but get goosebumps when I hear that theme song in 7.1 sound. Of course for the hardcore Trekkies, there is also the original Stereo Surround audio included as well.

Official Premise: Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two travels warp speed into the next realm of adventure. Under the leadership of Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart), the Enterprise faces a season of new changes and big challenges. With Dr. Crusher on sabbatical, Chief Medical Officer Katherine Pulaski (Diana Muldaur) fills in. And Guinan (Whoopi Goldberg) arrives as 10 Forward’s wise El-Aurian bartender. This voyage explores watershed moments, including Riker (Jonathan Frakes) experiencing the Klingon culture, Data (Brent Spiner) defending his humanity and the introduction of the Borg, a species of terrifying cybernetic conquerors threatening the fate of intelligent life.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” – Season Two has various special features spread out over all five discs. They are a nice improvement over season one.  To start each episodes contain their own “episodic promos”, which are an awesome retro look at the series.  Disc one extras start with an 1998 On-Air Season Two Promo, “Energized! Season Two Tech Update” is a chat with Dan Curry, Michael and Denise Okuda about release season two to high definition. Decent but I wish it was much longer. There is 1988 Star Trek-themed “Reading Rainbow” Segment with LeVar Burton, as well as a 2012 Reading Rainbow iTunes Promo with Burton showing off his new Reading Rainbow app. Lastly there is “Archival Mission Log: Departmental Briefing Year Two – Production”, which is a vintage featurette looking into a the “best of” from the filming of season two.

Disc Two brings various cuts of my favorite episode “The Measure of a Man”.  It includes an HD Extended Version, which runs 57:35 minutes from Editor Robert Lederman.  The extended cut includes thirteen minutes of new footage, which was recently turned up from Writer Melinda Snodgrass’ private VHS tape collectionand then reconstructed in high definition. Next, we have a Hybrid Extended Version for “The Measure of a Man” running at 55:50 minutes. This version of the episode that mixes up the broadcast footage in high definition and the rough VHS footage.  It is raw but still a cool look at the amazing episode.  Lastly, there is an amazing audio commentary track from Melinda Snodgrass, Michael and Denise Okuda as they discuss about the episode.

Disc Three consists of two “Archival Mission Logs” featurettes.  The first is “Inside Starfleet Archives: Penny Juday – Star Trek Coordinator”, which has her speaking about her role as the Star Trek archivist, with Star Trek Magazine and working on the film “Star Trek: Nemesis”. Next up is “Selected Crew Analysis – Year Two”, which features various cast/crew chatting about the show’s characters roles including Patrick Stewart, LeVar Burton,  Gene Roddenberry, Rick Berman, Wil Wheaton, Marina Sirtis, Diana Muldaur and Peter Lauritson.  Lastly there is a funny Gag Reel, presented in HD and runs about 10 minutes.

The star of Disc Four extra is the audio commentary track from Dan Curry, Rob Bowman, and Mike & Denise Okuda for the episode “Q Who?”.  Lastly, there is also another “Archival Mission Log” called “Departmental Analysis Year Two – Memorable Missions”.  It features interviews with cast and crew on the following episodes:  “Loud as a Whisper”, “The Icarus Factor”, “Up the Long Ladder”, “The Dauphin”, “Elementary, Dear Data”, “Manhunt”, and “The Measure of a Man”.

Disc Five has the best extras of any disc and also the best feature in the whole release, which is “Reunification: 25 Years After Star Trek: The Next Generation”, which runs just over an hour.  It is a awesome cast reunion with all of the primary cast members — Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Marina Sirtis, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, and Wil Wheaton.  It just makes me want to give them all a hug and re-watch the episodes again! “Make it So – Continuing Star Trek: The Next Generation”. It consists of two parts, the first part 1 – “Strange New Worlds” and the second “New Life and New Civilizations”.  Each one runs about 40 minutes and is a look into the season’s best qualities and character in depth from cast, crew and others.  Lastly there is one more final “Archival Mission Log” called “Mission Overview – Year Two”, which is a look into Roddenberry’s plans for the future and reflection on the show’s success.

Actors: Quvenzhané Wallis, Dwight Henry, Levy Easterly, Lowell Landes
Director: Benh Zeitlin
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

“…once there was a Hushpuppy and she lived with her daddy in The Bathtub“. 

Before getting into “Beasts of the Southern Wild”, I was not sure what to expect. This little indie keeps your attention from the moment it starts. It is extremely brutal and honest but that is the charm of this film. Quvenzhané Wallis really gives a wonderful performance playing Hushpuppy. She delivers such a fantastic performance that I wouldn’t be surprised to see award bells ringing in her future. Then Mix in some giant prehistoric beasts and you have yourself one enthralling film. Since this is Benh Zeitlin’s directorial debut, it is quite impressive. I am sure we will get some amazing things in the future. As we enter the end of the year, I would recommend checking out this little indie drama.

Official Premise: Teeming with magic, beauty and pure joy, this crowd-pleasing winner at the Sundance Film Festival has emerged as one of the year’s most acclaimed films. Newcomer Quvenzhan‚ Wallis delivers an “Oscarr-worthy performance” (Philadelphia Daily News) as Hushpuppy, the six-year-old force of nature in an isolated bayou community. When her tough but loving father Wink (Dwight Henry) succumbs to a mysterious malady, the fierce and determined girl bravely sets out on a journey to the outside world. But Hushpuppy’s quest is hindered by a “busted” universe that melts the ice caps and unleashes an army of prehistoric beasts.

The Blu-ray presentation from 20th Century Fox is no joke. It is being delivered as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD discs, as well as a downloadable digital copy. The film is low-budget but that doesn’t stop it from looking and sounding amazing. The 1080p transfer is extremely sharp and looks great. The audio included is a very impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. This works well with the film’s scale and score. If you enjoyed this film be sure to check out the digital flipbook at http://www.comeseethewild.com/.

The special features are decent for this Blu-ray release. There are about 15 minutes of deleted scenes, each includes commentary from director Benh Zeitlin. There are the initial audition tapes for Quvenzhané Wallis and Dwight Henry. “The Making of Beasts of the Southern Wild” is a nice look into the production. It sort-of makes up for a lack of commentary track on the release. “Glory at Sea” is Ben Zeitlin’s first short film, from 2008 and in sort-of a lead into this film. There is a feature on the music with composer Dan Romer. “The Aurochs” looks into creation of the enormous beasts, I wish this was longer! Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

Actors: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Joan Allen, Albert Finney
Directors: Tony Gilroy
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 135 minutes

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

When I think of Matt Damon, I always think about Jason Bourne. I have never really been though a huge fan of this series. I only saw “The Bourne Ultimatum” roughly days five years after its release and shortly before watching this film. And I only watched it since [semi-spoiler] I heard that it is connected to this film at various points. This is the first time that Jeremy Renner is taking over the franchise. After his key role in “The Avengers” as Hawkeye, he is does a decent job here but he can’t help the weak film overall. You are left with too many questions after watching this. I am very generous in my score, since I am still on a high from “The Avengers” and he is one my hot list right now. Also of course I do not think we have seen the end of the Bourne series either, so I assume there will be a fifth film soon.

Official Premise: The Bourne Legacy pulls back the curtain on a government secret even darker than Jason Bourne. When Bourne exposes Operation Treadstone at the end of The Bourne Ultimatum,he sparks a bonfire that threatens to burn down decades of research and development into the building of better spies and warriors. In The Bourne Legacy, audiences discover that there are actually a variety of covert intelligence programs – all of which now feel the threat of exposure. On the verge of having their conspiracy revealed, members of the government’s intelligence community will stop at nothing to erase all evidence of their top secret programs. With his life in jeopardy, agent Aaron Cross (Jeremy Renner) must use his genetically-engineered skills to survive the ultimate game of cat-and-mouse and finish what Jason Bourne started.

The Blu-ray releases comes with in a sweet combo pack with the Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy and Ultraviolet digital streaming. The 1080p transfer looks great for the film but I expected that honestly and nothing less. The star of this release though is easily its audio track. “The Bourne Legacy” packs a perfect DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track, which really steals the show. It also gives quite a workout to your surround sound system.

The special features are decent but overall each one runs too short. There is an audio commentary track from Director/co-writer Tony Gilroy, co-writer Dan Gilroy, editor John Gilroy, director of photography Robert Elswit, second unit director Dan Bradley and production designer Kevin Thompson. It is very in depth and recommend for only fans of the film. There are three decent deleted scenes, which run about 7 minutes and each with optional commentary from the Gilroys and Elswit. “Re-Bourne” is a short features on continuing the series without Jason Bourne. “Enter Aaron Cross” is another short feature about Renner becoming the next super agent. “Crossing Continents” is a featurette about filming on location. “Moving Targets” focuses on Aaron and Marta with cast/crew interviews. “Man vs. Wolf” features Renner talking about wolves. “Wolf Sequence Test” is an animated storyboard reel for the wolf attack. Lastly “Capturing Chaos: The Motorbike Chase” looks the filming of the fast-paced action scene.

Actors: Tara Strong, Ashleigh Ball, Tabitha St. Germain
Directors: Jayson Thiessen
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 120 minutes

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

When I showed this title to my wife, who grew up with the original 80’s series, the first thing she said is she hated the way the animation looks. I understand where she is coming from but I kind of like of the Japanese anime feel to this new rebooted series. Watching this show with my six month old daughter, she couldn’t take her eyes off the screen. It is like a color and noise explosion for the kids.

There are four episodes includes from “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic” series, including “The Crystal Empire Part 1 & 2, Sonic Rainboom, Luna Eclipsed and “It’s About Time”. Though on the same day that this is being release “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic- Season One” is also being released, I would just recommend that one since you get 26 episodes of 5 for only double the price. At the time of writing this review they have aired 57 episodes and are into season three, so Shout Factory better get a move on releasing season two quickly!

Official Premise: In Adventures in the Crystal Empire, a magical empire has suddenly appeared in the arctic north of Equestria, and Princess Celestia needs Twilight Sparkle and her friends to find a way to protect it. While her friends try to keep the Crystal Ponies occupied at the Crystal Faire, Twilight Sparkle searches for the hidden Crystal Heart that is the key to keeping their empire safe from harm!

The show itself is extremely colorful and very eye-catching for kids. The DVD is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen and with 2.0 Stereo audio track. If you are looking for more “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic”, the series is currently airing on The HUB TV Network. So check it out! The special features are a little light for a kids release but include a coloring sheet and sing-along.

Actors: Gary Daniels, Peter Weller
Directors: Jonas Quastel
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: December 18, 2012
Run Time: 100 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to mixed martial arts, I am big sucker for whatever is available. This film has a lot going for it including starring Peter Weller, known best for playing “Robocop” and also former world kick-boxing champion Gary Daniels (“The Expendables”). I have loved Daniel’s work going back to “Fist of the North Star”. The story is what you would expect from this type of film but it still works. The film is action-packed and features various fighting styles including wrestling, judo, jiu jitsu etc. There is something for everyone here in this non-stop thrill ride. Recommended for all MMA fans!

Official Premise: Once a legend in the brutal world of illicit underground fighting, Shane Slavin (Daniels) decides to turn his life around, promising his wife and young son he’s fought his last battle. But when his younger brother betrays a ruthless crime boss (Weller), Shane is forced back into the arena to pay his brother’s debts and to protect his family. Now Shane must confront a gauntlet of incredibly savage, no-holds-barred fights with no rules, no mercy and just two possible outcomes: win or die fighting.

“Forced to Fight” comes with a nice Blu-ray presentation. It looks damn impressive with its 1080p transfer and it’s aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track works well with the film’s action. You will find yourself dodging punches on your couch! The downside is that there are no special features included on this release. I also would have loved to see this released as a combo pack with a DVD, as well included.

Actors: Calvin Reeder, Lane Hughes, Adam Wingard
Directors: Adam Wingard, David Bruckner, Ti West, Glenn McQuaid, Joe Swanberg
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 116 minutes

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

When it comes to anthology horror, “Creepshow” still holds my favorite chip. “V/H/S” though is easily one of my favorite horror films of 2012. It is unique and takes the POV genre to a new level. Plus, personally having grown up on VHS and 80’s horror, this film completely speaks to me. It is weird to think that my own daughter, who is only 6 months will not know what a VHS tape is. I don’t think these are terrifying but definitely get some good jumps and some “WTF” moments. If you are looking for some kick ass horror from some very talent young directors, do not miss “V/H/S”.

The film contains six different segments “Tape 56”, which also is the main arc; “Amateur Night”, “Second Honeymoon”, my favorite of them all; “Tuesday the 17th”, “The Sick Thing That Happened to Emily When She Was Younger” and “10/31/98”. They are all tied together yet completely different. Some of them are harder to stomach than others in terms of the brutal level. Some are better than the others but overall they work well as a team to kick some major ass!

This film packs some great directoral talent including Adam Wingard (“The ABC’s of Death”, “A Horrible Way to Die”), David Bruckner (“The Signal”), Ti West (“The Innkeepers”, “The House of the Devil”), Glenn McQuaid (“I Sell the Dead”), Joe Swanberg (“The Zone”) and Radio Silence. There is so much love for the horror genre here that this film is almost guaranteed not the fail. These guys love their 80’s horror and really deliver some great unique approach to the anthology POV horror genre.

Official Premise: V/H/S is a POV, found-footage horror film from the perspective of America’s top genre filmmakers. In V/H/S, a group of misfits are hired by an unknown third party to burglarize a desolate house in the countryside and acquire a rare tape. Upon searching the house, the guys are confronted with a dead body, a hub of old televisions and an endless supply of cryptic footage, each video stranger and more inexplicable than the last…

Here is the thing about this film, it is not meant to look perfect. It is very low-budget and made to look like it was on VHS tape. So the 1080p looks perfect for what is expected. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks works well with the dialogue and the jumps. There are some decent special features included here including cast and crew commentary tracks. There is also an alternate ending for “10/31/98”. There is some deleted scenes from “Tuesday the 17th” and “Amateur Night”. There are interviews with cast and crew including web cam interviews. The “Conceptual Design Gallery” for the character of Lily is worth checking out. “AXS TV: A Look at V/H/S” is a behind-the-scenes looks at the production of the segments. Lastly there are trailers included.

Director: Mervyn Leroy
Cast: Karl Malden, Natalie Wood, Rosalind Russell
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Archive
Running Time: 143 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: November 20, 2012

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Growing up in New York and always traveling to the city, I have seen numerous different version of this Broadway classic over the years. The cast is so perfect for this film and Karl Malden, Natalie Wood, and Rosalind Russell all deliver their best. The film itself is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year and has never looked better.  Thanks need to go to Warner Archive for delivering this classic on Blu-ray for the first time. This is one of Warner Archive’s first go-round at Blu-ray and I can’t wait to see what they have planned next. I would highly recommend this release. It is being made via MOD, so be sure to get it before it goes out of print.

Official Synopsis: Ringing with the showbiz sass of its Jule Styne/Stephen Sondheim score, the film version of the Broadway hit Gypsy takes you on a grand vaudeville tour. It sweeps you up in the roller-coaster relationship of Louise (Natalie Wood), the wallflower later to blossom into sophisticated stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, and her ambitious mother, Rose (Rosalind Russell who’s performance won her a fifth Best Actress Golden Globe Award). Karl Malden scores as Herbie, the salesman who falls for Rose – to his exasperation. Full of terrific tunes (Everything’s Coming Up Roses and Small World among them), Gypsy will certainly entertain you and definitely make you smile.

For a film made back in 1962, this film looks very nice it’s brand new high-definition 1080p transfer and the original aspect ratio of 2.40:1. I was very impressive with the beautiful video presentation. The audio includes an DTS-HD MA 2.0 surround track. It sounds good but since the film is a musical, I was really hoping this was going to better than good. The special features are slim but at least there is something. Warner Archive usually deliver bare bones, so something is better than nothing. There are two outtake musical numbers for “You’ll Never Get Away from Me (Duet Version)” and “Together Wherever We Go”. Also there is the theatrical trailer included. Overall, for Warner Archive’s first go-round on Blu-ray it is very impressive and I look forward to future releases.

Director: Sidney Lumet
Cast: Michael Caine, Christopher Reeve, Dyan Cannon
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Archive
Running Time: 116 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: November 20, 2012

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

“Deathtrap” is a fun mix of comedy and cat and mouse genre. The duo of Michael Caine and Christopher Reeve are brilliant and they work well together. Since the film is celebrating it’s 30th anniversary, it stills works and holds it own today. This release is one of the first from Warner Bros Archive on Blu-ray and it is quite impressive. If you are a fan of this little cult classic, I would highly recommend this release. It is being made via MOD, so be sure to get it before it goes out of print.

Official Synopsis: If you were a famed mystery playwright with a devastating string of recent flops, what would you do for a can’t-miss thriller script? Beg for it? Pay for it? Or would you kill for it? You would if you were Sidney Bruhl, the leading character in Ira Levin’s dazzlingly funny, deliciously scary, Broadway-smash-turned-movie-hit Deathtrap. Michael Caine starts as Bruhl and Christopher Reeve stars as Bruhl’s one-time student, who’s written a play so flawless “even a gifted director couldn’t ruin it” …and who requests Bruhl’s production help. And Dyan Cannon is Bruhl’s loving wife, who doesn’t want the student helped to an early grave. Sydney Lumet directs Deathtrap’s hairpin twists with such drop-dead wit and delightful dread that you’ll stop laughing only long enough to gasp in surprise.

For a film made back in 1982, this film looks very nice it’s brand new high-definition 1080p transfer and the original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The audio includes an DTS-HD MA 2.0 surround track. It works for the film’s dialogue but don’t otherwise blow you away. When it comes to special features, unfortunately this release only comes with a trailer and nothing else. Hopefully this will change in the future, especially since Warner Archive’s Blu-ray for “Gypsy” includes some extras. Overall, for Warner Archive’s first go-round on Blu-ray it is very impressive and I look forward to future releases.

Actors: Malcolm McDowell, Jaime King, Ellen Wong, Donal Logue, Brendan Fehr, Courtney Palm
Director: Steven C. Miller
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Starz / Anchor Bay
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

Lately, there has been a big huge flow of 80’s horror remakes.  The 1984 horror classic “Silent Night Deadly Night” is one of my favorites.  When it was released it was controversial and was protested.  “Silent Night” is a modern remake and packs a nice punch but I doubt it will have the same effect as the shocking original.  The kills are sharp, the gore is present and there is no shortage of gratuitous nudity. The film also rings in a wonderful cast including Malcolm McDowell (“Rob Zombie’s Halloween”) and Jaime King (“Sin City”) and Courtney Palm (“Sushi Girl”), who also has the best kill scene in the film! There is some decent nods to the original film but overall stands on its own.

Don’t get me wrong the 1984 original is a cult classic but it surely has its issues and is not a perfect film.  “Silent Night” takes what’s good in the original and sharpens it up a bit.  Steven C. Miller is a kick-ass director and he knows his horror.  This is a great follow-up to his last film, which I also enjoyed, “The Aggression Scale”. “Silent Night” is low-budget film but it has a larger scale to it. You can tell that Miller is a fan of the original himself and really delivers his unique look and feel to this film. This might be his most mature and sharpest film to date! As always, I look forward to what he has planned next. If you are a fan of the original, this is a nice companion to it.  It tries to compliment it more than it tries to replace it.

This time around the story follows on a small-town sheriff and deputy who are on the hunt for a murderous masked Santa Claus that terrorizing their community on Christmas Eve. As the town prepare for its annual Christmas parade, the streets full of Santas and the killer is hiding in plain sight. The killer is picking off the people that he judges as being “naughty”. He’s making his list, checking it twice, and the naughty are going to pay with their lives. Christmas is going to be bloody and brutal this year!

Anchor Bay is releasing a very nice Blu-ray/DVD combo pack for the film. It looks very sharp it is 2.40:1/16×9 1080p transfer. The audio is also very impressive with its Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track. The special features are not the best but definitely worth checking out. There is a very short and non narrated collection of behind-the-scenes footage from the production, which runs just over six minutes. There are some deleted scenes, which run for just over five minute. They literally add nothing to the film and were rightfully deleted. I would have loved to see a commentary track from Miller and some cast chatting about the original and the production.

Starring: Frederic Forrest, Robert Duvall, Teri Garr, Harrison Ford, Vincent Gallo, Gene Hackman
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Number of discs: 4
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 695 minutes

Films: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are a fan of Francis Ford Coppola, this 5-Film Collection is the ultimate prize. Included is four films previously available on Blu-ray – “Apocalypse Now”, the updated and extended version – “Apocalypse Now Redux”, “The Conversation”, “Tetro” and romantic musical “One From the Heart”, which is being released on high-def Blu-ray for the first time. It is definitely the main draw for this release! Lionsgate has really delivered the essential collection for one of most influential filmmakers of his time. The set includes four of the best works for the highly respected filmmaker, which share a combined total of 12 Academy Award® nominations and two wins between them. This release comes just in time for the holidays, and is perfect gift for all film fans. At the very reasonable price for less than $30 dollars, this release is a sure-win!

These films include some of the most unforgettable performances from Hollywood’s top talent. From “Apocalypse Now” we get Marlon Brando, Martin Sheen, Robert Duvall, who all deliver each of their best performances to date.  Harrison Ford gives a wonderful performances in both “Apocalypse Now” and “The Conversation”. Gene Hackman is amazing in “The Conversation”, as is Cindy Williams and John Cazale.  Like Ford, Frederic Forrest also stars in two of these included “The Conversation” and “One From The Heart”.  Raul Julia also gives a show stopping performance in “One From The Heart”, as does Nastassja Kinski and Teri Garr.  Most recently, Vincent Gallo also delivers a career high performance in “Tetro”.

APOCALYPSE NOW: In the Vietnam War epic, Martin Sheen stars as Army Captain Willard, a troubled man sent on a dangerous top-secret mission into Cambodia to assassinate a rogue Green Beret, Colonel Kurtz (Brando), who has barricaded himself in a remote outpost. As Willard ventures deeper and deeper into the wilderness of the jungle, he embarks on a strange journey that leads him to Kurtz – but also forces him to come face to face with the terrifying vision of the heart of darkness in us all.

APOCALYPSE NOW REDUX: This is the definitive version of Francis Ford Coppola’s stunning vision of the heart of darkness in all of us, re-edited and re-mastered with 49 minutes of additional footage.

ONE FROM THE HEART: Legendary director Francis Ford Coppola shines his spotlight on a Las Vegas couple (Teri Garr, Frederic Forrest) whose break-up on the 4th of July leads them both to a night on the strip in pursuit of their romantic fantasies (Raul Julia, Nastassja Kinski). But in this town of gamblers and dreamers, should they bet it all on dreams, or give true love another roll of the dice? Featuring breathtaking design, show-stopping set pieces, the stunning cinematography of Vittorio Storaro (Apocalypse Now, The Last Emperor) and accompanied by the wonderful Oscar® nominated music of the one and only Tom Waits, this neon explosion of color, sound and innovation is a cinematic valentine for all movie lovers.

THE CONVERSATION: In an underground world of conspiracy, surveillance and mystery, the film follows expert wire-tapper and spy Harry Caul (Hackman) during a routine investigation. With a haunting past tormenting his every move, Caul makes it a golden rule to stay far outside of each project. However, his latest job turns out to be more than Caul bargained for when he’s caught inside a web of murder and secrecy that threatens his safety – and his sanity.

TETRO: Starring Vincent Gallo (Buffalo ’66) and set in Argentina, Tetro tells the bittersweet story of two brothers, of family lost and found and the conflicts and secrets within a highly creative Italian immigrant family.

When it comes to Blu-ray presentation, these films have never looked better and don’t show their age at all. “Apocalypse Now”, “Apocalypse Now Redux” and “Tetro” are all presented in 1080P High Definition 16×9 Widescreen (2.35:1).  “One From The Heart” is presented in 1080P High Definition 4×3 Full Screen (1.33:1) and “The Conversation” is presented in 1080P High Definition 16×9 Widescreen (1.78:1).  All films contains a very solid audio, DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.  Of course “Apocalypse” sounds the best due to its extreme action sequences throughout.

“Tetro” is up next and delivers some decent special features but are only presented in 1080i. There is an audio commentary with Francis Ford Coppola and actor Alden Ehrenreich. There are four featurettes included on this disc like in the previous release. “The Rehearsal Process” focuses on Coppola’s extensive preparation with the cast; Osvaldo Golijov: Music Born from the Film” featurette. “Mihai Malaimare, Jr: The Cinematography” looks at the film’s dancing, as does “The Ballet” featurette. Lastly “La Colifata: Siempre Fui Loco” is a look at the filming of Tetro at La Borda mental hospital. Lastly “Fausta: A Drama in Verse” is an extended version of the play featured within the movie.

Lastly up is The Conversation”, which are equally impressive as “One from the Heart”. First, there is an interview with director Francis Ford Coppola and composer David Shire, as well as two audio commentary with director Francis Ford Coppola and editor Walter Murch.  There is a further on siscussion with Francis Ford Coppola about his early film “No Cigar”. There are two featurettes including “Harry Caul’s San Francisco: Then and Now” and “Close up on The Conversation”.  Lastly there are archival screen tests with Harrison Ford and Cindy Williams, archival audio of Francis Ford Coppola dictating the original script and also an archival on-set interview with Gene Hackman.

Actors: Danny McBride, Steve Little, John Hawkes, Jennifer Irwin, Jason Sudeikis
Studio: HBO Studios
Rating: TV-MA
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 311 min

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

After season two of “Eastbound & Down”, I thought this took a downfall. But the third season is a nice bounce back for the show, it is not as good as the first but definitely gets the bases loaded. Jason Sudeikis joins the cast this as Kenny’s new best friend and kindred spirit Shane. The series is very unique and nice blend of comedy and also drama. It is executive produced by Will Ferrell, Chris Henchy, Adam McKay, Jody Hill and Danny McBride. The new direction for this season definitely paid off, since HBO picked up the comedy series for a fourth season, which will consist of another eight episodes. So we haven’t seen the last of Kenny “Fucking” Powers. I also suggest HBO to take this story to the big screen!

Season Official Premise: Powers, whose boorish behavior and fading fastball led to a spectacular career flame-out now finds himself back on the mound in the USA. Picking up a year after season two, the third season finds Kenny in action on the “Redneck Riviera” (aka Myrtle Beach, SC), somehow resurrecting his baseball career by becoming the closer for the minor-league Myrtle Beach Mermen. Even as he tries to pass himself off as the “King of Myrtle Beach,” Kenny struggles to come to terms with growing older and accepting the responsibilities of being a new father.

“Eastbound & Down: The Complete Third Season” is presented very well on Blu-ray. Each episode is delivered in a sharp 1080p and in its original aspect ratio: 1.78:1. The audio includes a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 trakc, which works well with the music and the dialogue. The star of the special features are eight audio commentaries  from all the comedy talent including Danny McBride, Jody Hill, Steve Little, David Gordon Green, Katy Mison, Craig Robinson and more. They are all worth checking out and a great way to revisit the episodes.  There are also  some decent deleted scenes, including an exclusive “Dinner with the Schaeffer’s” and also a very funny blooper reel  included.