Actors: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin
Directors: Barry Sonnenfeld
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 30, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

“Men in Black” is a fun series.  The first film was very unique in its time.  The second was a bit messy but still tons of fun.  The third film takes the series into a nice direction.  I am not sure if there will be a fourth film but it is much welcomed.   The film seems a little over-budgeted to me but is a hell of a ride and very entertaining.  The 3D on the Blu-ray is good but not stunning.  You can tell that this was converted into 3D for the money. There is a nice about a depth added due to the added third-dimension, there is just no WOW factor from it. The film still works though with or without it though. Josh Brolin is a nice addition to the cast and gives a spot on performances for K (aka Tommy Lee Jones).  I also think this film has real replay value and I look forward to watching it again soon (which is rare with most films I watch).

Official Premise: In “Men in Black 3”, Agents J [Will Smith] and K [Tommy Lee Jones] are back… in time. Agent J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when Agent K’s life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that Agent K never told him – secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K [Josh Brolin] to save his partner, the agency and the future of humankind.

Sony Home Entertainment’s release comes in a three-disc combo pack. There is a Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray and a DVD included, as well as a Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The 1080p transfer is sharp and impressive, whether you are watching in 3D or 2D. I still will most likely revisit this again in 3D, even though it wasn’t perfect. I liked the depth given to the film and I thin kit is worth it just for that. The real star of this release though is the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround audio track. It works perfectly with the film’s action and Elfman’s score. My surround sound really needed a nap after this extreme workout.

“Men in Black 3” also marks the debut use of “The Movie Touch”, which is an interactive bonus for those with an iPad. It goes well beyond the concept of a second-screen app. It allows you to watch the movie on their iPad while also navigating numerous bonus behind-the-scenes videos, photos, fun facts, soundtrack music info, multi-angle explorations, an interactive timeline, actor profiles, exclusive content and more. The Movie Touch App is available free from the App Store, here. This is going to be a very cool feature with possibilities going forward with future titles like “Total Recall” and I look forward to see what’s next.

Sony has been really embracing the Blu-ray 3D format. They actually include some 3D special features again after “The Amazing Spider-Man”. They are not show-stopper but still 3D extra nonetheless. “The Case of Boris the Animal: The 3D Models of MIB 3” is an interactive feature that allows you to interact with a 3D display and may learn more the film’s goodies like the Particle Randomizer, the Class 2 Jet Pack, the Archanan Time Jumper, Boris’ Motorcycle, and the Monocycles. There is also a ever-to-short look with Visual Effects Supervisor Corey Turner on “Converting to 3D”. I wish this was much longer but still cool. Lastly there is a 3D trailer for “The Amazing Spider-Man”.

The rest of the special features are on the 2D Blu-ray disc. “Spot the Alien Game” is a cute but not amazing FPS using your remote. Kids might enjoy this more than adults. “Partners in Time: The Making of MIB 3” is a decent length behind-the-scenes feature with cast and crew chatting about everything from production to visual effects. “The Evolution of Cool: MIB 1960’s vs. Today” is nice feature on bringing the series back and its travels through time. “Keeping it Surreal: The Visual FX of MIB 3” focuses solely on the film’s special effects and creature designs. “Scene Investigations” is a detailed focus on specific scenes, including Lunar Prison Escape, Showdown at Mr. Wu’s, J’s Time Jump, and The Motorcycle Chase. Animation Supervisor Spencer Cook and VFX Supervisors Ken Ralston and Jay Redd takes us through “Progression Reels” with a commentary voice over on the design and digital effects. Lastly, there is a very funny gag reel and music video for “Back in Time” by Pitbull included.

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Actors: Ashley Greene, Sebastian Stan, Tom Felton
Directors: Todd Lincoln
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: November 27, 2012
Run Time: 82 minutes

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

“The Apparition” was given virtually no chance to succeed in theaters.  It was dropped into only a few screens with little to no push.  The film has a decent cast including Ashley Greene (“The Twilight Saga”), Sebastian Stan (“Captain America: The First Avenger”) and Tom Felton (“Harry Potter” series). It is kind of sad since neither Ashley or Tom has really yet to make it on their own outside their now-ended respective franchises.  I thought this film had a few decent spooks but their is no payoff.  I feel like it plays it way to safe with its PG-13 rating and never gets a chance to reach stretch its wings out.

When frightening events start to occur in their home, young couple Kelly (Greene) and Ben (Stan) discover they are being haunted by a presence that was accidentally conjured during a university parapsychology experiment. The horrifying apparition feeds on their fear and torments them no matter where they try to run. Their last hope is an expert in the supernatural, Patrick (Felton), but even with his help they may already be too late to save themselves from this terrifying force.

“The Apparition” comes in a combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD and Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. Overall the film looks good with its 1080p transfer and its 2.4:1 aspect ratio. It is quite dark but still manages to deliver in high definition. There is also sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 5,1 track, which works with the success and gets a few good jumps. The special features are decent but not overly impressive. “The Dark Realm of Paranormal” looks into the reality behind the supernatural events. Ghost hunter Joshua P. Warren shows us real-life paranormal locations in “Haunted Asheville”. “The Experiment of The Apparition” shows how Warren attempts to show where the movie and the real-life horror meet. Lastly the film’s stars take a look at the experiment from the film in “The Apparition: A Cinematic Specter”.

Channel: The History Channel
Number of discs: 6
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: A&E Entertainment
DVD Release Date: October 9, 2012
Run Time: 540 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

When it comes to learning about our past, I immediately think about The History Channel.  They always deliver impressive programming and nice DVD releases.  Though this release is not that impressive. Basically out of the 6 discs included, there are only two discs of new programs.  “Planet Egypt” was produced in 2012 and contains four 45 minutes episodes.  This four-part miniseries explores Egypt’s technology, culture, religion, wars and peace over 3,000 years. This is the star of the release and puts the others to shame.  Luckily this release is very cheap running for under $17 dollars on Amazon and it is worth it just for these two discs.  The rest of the extras are still informative and I will hold them as a bonus feature.

Next up on disc 3 and 4 is dated back from 2001, “Egypt: Beyond the Pyramids”.  This four-part series takes the viewers inside Egypt for (then) first-ever-filmed look into sites such as Tomb of Ramses II, the Abydos Boat Graves, and the skeletons at Mendes. Overall this series is decent but feels aged.  Disc 5 includes “Egypt: Engineering an Empire” from 2006, which runs 90 minute. Decent and includes some good information. The sixth disc is basically the dumping ground from the rest of the old specials. “Ancient Egypt: Modern Medicine” is the worst quality of the three but has this certain vintage charm.  “Egypt’s Great Queen” delivers some interesting information about Hatshepsut. “The Great Pyramids of Giza and Other Pyramids” is the oldest dating back to 1997. Lastly, we have the aging special “Ramses’ Egyptian Empire”.

Official Premise: From its unification in approximately 3100 B.C. to its conquest by Alexander the Great in 332 B.C., ancient Egypt was the preeminent civilization in the Mediterranean world. This special 6-disc collectible set headlined by HISTORY’s best-selling programs; including the acclaimed Egypt-focused episode of the Emmy®-winning series ENGINEERING AN EMPIRE, and the highly-rated mini-series PLANET EGYPT, THE ANCIENT EGYPT ANTHOLOGY pays homage to this rich and complex culture and explores it from its very beginnings as a land of disparate peoples, through its dynastic zenith and to its ultimate decline.

Created by Charles M. Shultz
Starring: Bill Melendez, Jeremy Schoenberg, Brad Kesten, Angela Lee, Victoria Vargas, Jeremy Miller, Brett Johnson, Heather Stoneman, Gini Holtzman
Studio: Warner Archive
DVD Release Date: November 20, 2012
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 402 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love Peanuts?! “The Charlie Brown & Snoopy Show” originally aired on CBS from September 1983 to October of 1985 for only two seasons. This DVD contains the complete series with all 18 episodes. A few of the episodes started to be released last year on various Peanuts DVDs but this is the first time that they have been released fully and complete on DVD, thanks to Warner Archive.  The episodes are presented in 4X3 full frame and their original aspect ratio of 1.37:1.  The audio included is a decent mono track, which works for the show. This is a nice flashback to the ‘ole Saturday morning cartoon days that I had growing up.

Season 1 consists of the following episodes: “Snoopy’s Cat Fight”; “Snoopy: Team Manager”; “Linus and Lucy”; “Lucy vs. the World”; “Linus’ Security Blanket”; “Snoopy: Man’s Best Friend”; “Snoopy the Psychiatrist”; “You Can’t Win, Charlie Brown”; “The Lost Ballpark”; “Snoopy’s Football Career”; “Chaos in the Classroom”; “It’s That Team Spirit, Charlie Brown”; “Lucy Loves Schroeder”. Season 2 consists of the following episodes: “Snoopy and the Giant”; “Snoopy’s Brother Spike”; “Snoopy’s Robot”; “Peppermint Patty’s School Days” and “Sally’s Sweet Babboo”.  Inside each episode there are numerous shorts, so you get quite of bit of Peanuts goodness throughout the series.  If you are a fan of Charlie Brown and the Peanuts crew then this release is a no-brainer.

Official Premise: Your favorite Peanuts stories come to life in this animated television series. Adapted from the popular comic strip created and written by Charles M. Shultz, “The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show” is no longer a cartoon relegated to Saturday mornings of the past — now you can watch the gang anytime! With short sketches featuring these classic and much-loved characters, it’s easy to “have a party with Charlie Brown and Snoopy,” as the theme song says. The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show originally aired in 1983 and 1985 and was nominated for an Emmy Award in 1983

Starring: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, John Goodman, Casey Affleck
Directors: Sam Fell, Chris Butler
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: November 27, 2012
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

“ParaNorman” is the latest film from Laika, the studio behind one of my favorite films “Coraline”. This is one of those films that really grow with you with each viewing. I really enjoy this film in 3D and though that it added a lot to the film but we only had the chance to review this in 2D. So I feel that it is still worth checking out but I would recommend this in 3D firstly. I would add a half a star to this in 3D, which is an improvement from my theatrical review. I still feel that some parts are a bit too scary for some kids. I love the little horror Easter eggs spread out all over the film.  Enjoy and see how many you can find?! Overall, this is a decent follow-up feature for Laika but it doesn’t come close to the charm of “Coraline”. I can’t wait to see what they are going to deliver next. If for nothing else, this film deserves to be seen just to dignify how much work was put into it.

Official Premise: From the makers of Coraline comes the story of Norman, a boy who must use his special powers to save his town from a centuries-old curse. In addition to spooky zombies, he’ll also have to take on unpredictable ghosts, wily witches and, worst, of all, clueless grown-ups. But this young ghoul whisperer will soon find his paranormal activities pushed to their otherworldly limits. Featuring the voice talents of Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin and John Goodman, it’s a frightfully funny tale for the whole family.

This releases does come within a very nice combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy discs and even Ultraviolet Digital Streaming Copy. The 1080p transfer still looks sharp and really pops with the very colorful film.  Though I still feel that it works better in 3D.  The film itself is actually quite action packed and does comes with a decent DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track.  The special features are good and worth checking out if you enjoyed the film.  Starting off, there is a very informative commentary track with Director Sam Fell and Writer/Director Chris Butler. Next we have, “Preliminary Animatic Sequences” again with commentary from Director Sam Fell and Writer/Director Chris Butler. “Peering Through the Veil” is a look into the world created for this film including the town and the characters.  Lastly there are seven short featurettes spotlighting Norman and his extraordinarily unusual costars.

Actors: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy
Directors: Christopher Nolan
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 165 minutes

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

Prior to the release of “The Dark Knight Rises”, there were many questions that were being asked.  Most importantly “Could it actually be better “The Dark Knight”? Well, the answer is no but it is still fantastic and easily one of the best films of the year.  “The Dark Knight” exists in a world entirely of it own.  It is by far the best superhero movie to date, yes even better than “The Avengers”.  “The Dark Knight Rises” does provide a very satisfying ending to a fantastic trilogy from Christopher Nolan.  I am sure some might disagree but I was left very happy with how the events came together in this film.  But I have to give Tom Hardy the coolness award since Bane was easily my favorite part of the film and no, his voice was not a problem for me at all.  In fact, his voice was one of the factors that I loved the most. Speaking of voices, I am also glad that Bale calmed down his Batman voice, so it is not so cowlI saw this film in IMAX and though it is a hard act to follow the Blu-ray presentation is extremely impressive as well.

This releases comes in a three-disc set including two Blu-rays and one DVD.  There is also a Ultraviolet digital  streaming copy included. Warner Bros’ 1080p transfer does look stunning, as I started to say above.  The most important factor is that the switch between traditionally filmed sequences presented at 2.40:1 and 70mm IMAX scenes presented at 1.78:1 are seamless. Though, I was impressed most with the audio on the film.  Literally my surround sound was pumping with this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. I wasn’t a major fan of Hans Zimmer’s score prior to this but I was really digging it on this Blu-ray.  I see myself revisiting this score again now. Overall easily, one of the best Blu-ray presentations of the year!

Before we get to the special features, I would like to quickly mention that Warner Bros has just released the new “The Dark Knight Rises FX” app, which is jam-packed with some really cool features including being able to shoot their own video and have the Camo Tumbler drive through it; put themselves in the Camo Tumbler in a photo. You can also impose yourself into The Dark Knight Rises “RISE” poster and also place the mask from Batman, Bane or Catwoman onto your own photo. This is highly recommended for all fans of the film. The app is free and available now from the App store and is compatible with 4th generation iPod touch devices, iPhone 4, iPad2 and the New iPad. Check it out, here.

The special features are impressive and a really step up from fellow-superhero Blu-ray release “The Avengers”.  Most of the extras of located on the second Blu-ray with the exception of “The Second Screen Experience”, which allows allows you to sync your device with the Blu-ray for additional content. The first feature on the second disc is quite the whooper filed under “Production”, running just over an hour.  It is consisted of twelve featurettes including  “The Prologue: High-Altitude Hijacking,” “Return to the Batcave,” “Beneath Gotham,” “The Bat,” “Batman vs. Bane,” “Armory Accepted,” “Gameday Destruction,” “Demolishing a City Street,” “The Pit,” “The Chant,” “The War on Wall Street” and “Race to the Reactor.”   They feature Christopher Nolan along with cast and crew as they dig deep into the film’s production. “Characters” are broken down in two three featurettes, totally about 30 minutes, including “The Journey of Bruce Wayne,” “Gotham’s Reckoning” (Bane) and “A Girl’s Gotta Eat” (Selina Kyle).  “Reflections” consists of two features including “Shadows & Light in Large Format” which focuses on Wally Pfister role and “The End of a Legend” looks into the end of this trilogy. “The Batmobile” is an awesome piece on of the coolest aspects of Batman…his car, it also runs just sign of an hour. Lastly there are four theatrical trailers summing up this release.

Official Premise: The Dark Knight Rises” is the epic conclusion to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act. But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane.

“The Dark Knight Rises” available on Blu-ray Combo pack, DVD and for download 12/4!
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Starring: Jennifer Hale, Tress MacNeille, Rob Paulsen, Corey Burton, Holland Taylor, Susanne Blakeslee
Directors: Frank Nissen, John Kafka
Number of discs: 3
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 20, 2012
Running Time: 73 / 70 minutes

Cinderella II: Dreams Come True: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Cinderella III: A Twist in Time: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

How can you follow up to wonderful and timeless story of “Cinderella”. “Cinderella II: Dreams Come True” is a poor excuse for a sequel to one of the best fairy tale stories ever. The animation really is poor and really shows it’s direct-to-video roots. To be honest, I wouldn’t purchase this if it wasn’t in a combo pack. “Cinderella III: A Twist in Time” is a much better follow-up.  It delivers a really nice twist on the classic story and also packs some really fun songs. This film does make this release worth the purchase and I would just take “Cinderella II”, as a bonus feature.  In terms of delivery, “Cinderella II & III” are presented on one Blu-ray disc, while each film is also available on their own individual DVD. Overall, I would recommend this for probably only hardcore Disney fans!

“Cinderella II: Dreams Come True”: As a newly crowned princess, Cinderella quickly learns that life at the Palace – and her royal responsibilities – are more challenging than she had imagined. In three heartwarming tales, Cinderella calls on her animal friends and her Fairy Godmother to help as she brings her own grace and charm to her regal role and discovers that being true to yourself is the best way to make your dreams come true.

“Cinderella III: A Twist In Time”: Princess Cinderella is living a charmingly perfect life until her stepmother gets her hands on Fairy Godmother’s magic wand. With a wicked spell that turns back the clock, she erases the Prince’s memories of the girl he met at the ball and shatters Cinderella’s happily ever after! Jaq and Gus scurry to save the day before time runs out. But was it all really just a dream in Cinderella’s heart, or will true love triumph over all?

Despite being pretty bad, “Cinderella II: Dreams Come True” still looks the best it ever has on Blu-ray with its 1080p transfer and its 1.66:1 aspect ratio. “Cinderella III: A Twist In Time” also looks fantastic with its 1080p transfer and its 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Both films also sport a nice DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. The special features do not add much to this release. There is a feature called “Becoming a Princess” which is included in a two-part feature. The 1st Edition is with “Cinderella II” and 2nd Edition is with “Cinderella III” and both are new features for this release. They takes you through princess school and the process of being transformed into a Disney Princess. “Musical Magic” looks into the songs in the “Cinderella 2”. Lastly, there is a music video for the song “Put It Together”.

Motorhead
“The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”
Motorhead Music
Producer: David Pattenden
Music Tracks: 28
DVD Tracks: 28

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Motorhead are back with a brand new live CD/DVD/Blu-Ray release titled “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”. The release features 2 audio CD’s and both the DVD and Blu-Ray formats of the concerts featured on the audio discs. Produced by David Pattenden and released via Motorhead Music “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else” is jammed packed with one louder goodness from start to finish.

Picking up where the bands 2011 live release “The World is Ours- Vol. 1 Everywhere Further Than Everywhere Else” left off Vol.2 takes things a step further with the big bonus being the 4 disc packaging which includes both standard DVD and HD Blu-Ray formats of the concert footage. The release includes performances from the bands 2011 Wacken Open Air Festival, Sonisphere and Rock in Rio appearances. Though the track listings of Vol. 1 and 2 are quite similar there is still enough different material contained on Vol. 2 to make it worth picking up. A definite nod should be given to mixer Cameron Webb who did a wonderful job with each of the 28 tracks. Songs such as “Iron Fist”, “The Chase is Better Than the Catch” and “Killed by Death” jump out of the speakers making you feel like you are in the front row. Lemmy’s vocals sound crisp and clear which only adds to the listening experience. When it comes to the video portion of the release be prepared to go to 11. Both DVD and Blu-Ray versions of the corresponding shows feature stunning visuals and great camera angles which capture all the non-stop action from both the band and the audiences view points.

Though I would have liked to have seen more in the way of special features in the video portion and possibly a bit more variation in the set lists the release is still a really great package plus I don’t think you can ever go wrong with multiple versions of “Ace of Spades” being included on the same album. If you want the live Motorhead experience without leaving the comfort of your living room “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else” is going to be about as close as you can get.

Disc 1 CD Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) Stay Clean
3.) Get Back in Line
4.) Metropolis
5.) Over the Top
6.) One Night Stand
7.) Rock Out
8.) The Thousand Names of God
9.) I Know How to Die
10.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
11.) In the Name of Tragedy
12.) Just ‘Cos You Got the Power
13.) Going to Brazil
14.) Killed by Death
15.) Bomber

Disc 2 CD Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Ace of Spades
2.) Overkill
Sonisphere Festival
3.) Iron Fist
4.) I Know How to Die
5.) In The Name of Tragedy
6.) Killed by Death
7.) Ace of Spades
8.) Overkill
Rock in Rio
9.) Stay Clean
10.) Over the Top
11.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
12.) Going to Brazil
13.) Killed By Death

DVD/Blu-Ray Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) Stay Clean
3.) Get Back in Line
4.) Metropolis
5.) Over the Top
6.) One Night Stand
7.) Rock Out
8.) The Thousand Names of God
9.) I Know How to Die
10.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
11.) In the Name of Tragedy
12.) Just ‘Cos You Got the Power
13.) Going to Brazil
14.) Killed by Death
15.) Bomber
16.) Ace of Spades
17.) Overkill

Sonisphere Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) I Know How to Die
3.) In The Name of Tragedy
4.) Killed by Death
5.) Ace of Spades
6.) Overkill

Rock in Rio
1.) Stay Clean
2.) Over the Top
3.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
4.) Going to Brazil
5.) Killed By Death

Bonus Feature:
Festival Impressions W:O:A

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Actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Martin Sheen, Christopher Walken
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 141 minutes

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

It is hard to believe but “Catch Me If You Can” turns 10 years old this year. I remember seeing it in the theaters for the first time and being blown away. But I have to admit that I have yet to see it again since then. What better time to revisit this release that the wonderful Blu-ray first-time on Blu-ray thanks to Paramount. This is one of Steven Spielberg’s last great films. It also starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks in one of their best roles to date. The Blu-ray presentation is very impressive and looks sharp with its new 1080p transfer and presented in its original aspect ratio: 1.85:1. The Blu-ray also treks a sweet DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which works with the fast-dialogue before the characters. Timed with the release of Spielberg’s latest “Lincoln”, 10 years have been kind of this film and I highly recommend this Blu-ray.

Official Premise: Frank didn’t go to flight school Frank didn’t go to medical school Frank didn’t go to law school because Frank’s still in high school! Inspired by the true story of a brilliant young master of deception and the FBI agent hot on his trail. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks. Frank W. Abagnale, Jr. successfully passes himself off as a pilot, a lawyer and a doctor all before his 21st birthday!

The special features include over an hour of extras that are very impressive but basically ports from previous DVD releases. “Catch Me If You Can: Behind the Camera” is a nice look into the Steven Spielberg production. Next up, “Catch Me If You Can: The Casting of the Film” is a five part feature that goes into detail on each character including, Leonardo DiCaprio as “Frank Abagnale, Jr.”, Tom Hanks as “Carl Hanratty”, Frank’s Parents: Christopher Walken and Nathalie Baye, The Strong Family: Martin Sheen and Amy Adams and Jennifer Garner as “Cheryl Ann”. “Scoring: Catch Me If You Can” focuses on John Williams’ score. The next four features look in to the real Frank in “Frank Abagnale: Between Reality and Fiction”, including “Meet Frank Abagnale”, “Frank Becomes a Pilot”, “Frank’s Careers” and “Frank Gets Caught and Turns His Life Around”. There is plenty of background information here. The last two featurettes focus on “The FBI Perspective” and “Catch Me If You Can: In Closing”. Lastly there are three Photo Galleries focusing on Cast, Behind-the-Scenes and Costume Design.

Actors: Frank Sinatra, Sterling Hayden, James Gleason, Nancy Gates
Directors: Lewis Allen
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 76 minutes

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

Frank Sinatra is known for his wonderful voice but some forget what a fantastic actor he is as well! Sinatra comes back right after his Oscar-winning turn from “From Here to Eternity” playing the role of a psychopathic hit man. It is awesome to see “Ol’ Blue Eyes” get a chance to play the baddie.  Image Entertainment has done a wonderful job restoring this film to Blu-ray since it was transferred from the Original 35mm Studio Fine Grain Master Print.  So the presentation on Blu-ray could not get any better.  Fans of Sinatra should not miss this film and Blu-ray.  Did mention it would make a wonderful Christmas gift for all dads! Hint, Hint!

Official Premise: Terror comes to the sleepy small town of Suddenly when a cold-blooded assassin takes a family hostage. Now, the clock is ticking and every precious second counts as they band together to stop this methodical killer before he can carry out his shocking plan. Academy Award-winner Frank Sinatra (From Here to Eternity) gives a “tour de force” (The New York Times) performance in the most astonishing role of his career. Sterling Hayden (The Killing) costars as the sheriff who is pitted against this cool and cunning psychopath in a tense battle of wills. Available in pristine HD with superior picture and sound, this is the definitive collector’s edition of this controversial classic of unnerving suspense.

For a film that is nearly 60 years old, it looks stunning within it’s 1080p transfer.  The audio track included is a DTS-HD master Audio 1.o track, which also works very well with this low-budget film noir thriller.  The special features are primarily commentary track but are worth the purchase alone.  There is a brand new audio commentary track from Frank Sinatra Jr, which is a must listen.  There is also a brand new audio commentary track with Dr. Drew Casper, a Professor of American Film.  It is more fact based but still very informative. There is a bonus short film included directed by Francis Thompson “N.Y., N.Y.: A Day in New York (1957)” and featuring amazing music from Gene Forrell. Lastly there is an image gallery included.

Actors: Matt Smith, David Tennant, Christopher Eccleston, Billie Piper, Freema Agyeman, Karen Gillian
Number of discs: 41
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 20, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

BBC Home Entertainment is answering the prayers of every Doctor Who fan just in time for the holiday season with the release of “Doctor Who Limited Edition Gift Set”. This limited edition Doctor Who collector’s box feature over 70 hours of “Doctor Who” amazing-ness plus many more of special features. The set also includes a collectible 11th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver, three original art cards and the comic book, “Doctor Who at Comic Con.” To honest I was a little disappointed with the packaging since it is a bit of a pain to open and close. Also in order to get to the comic book and card, you need to remove all of the contents. The 11th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver alone is a $30 value and is overall pretty rad to play with. The three original art cards are super cool as well and will look nice in a frame. Lastly, the comic book included “Doctor Who at Comic Con”, is a nice addition as well. This should satisfy all fans of the series but if you have been purchasing each series DVD as it has been released, the extra disc and goodies might not be worth the price.

This gift set includes the series in it’s DVD format spread out of 41 sci-fi packed discs. There are no Blu-ray’s included though. We all know that first few series of “Doctor Who” were shot on standard definition video, but since the 11th Doctor they have been releasing them on Blu-ray. So in this gift set, I understand them including only DVD to keep it uniform but I still prefer my Blu-ray releases of Series 5 and 6. So we get Series 1-6 and The Complete Specials (The Next Doctor / Planet of the Dead / The Waters of Mars / The End of Time Parts 1 and 2) included in their previously released packaging. Series 1-4 has never been released on Blu-ray and are currently only available on DVD. While Series 5-6 and The Complete Specials are also currently available on Blu-ray.

This gift set also includes a DVD of never-before-released specials including: “The Women of Doctor Who”, “The Timey – Wimey of Doctor Who” and “The Destinations of Doctor Who”. “The Women of Doctor Who” looks at the great women behind ever time lord. “The Timey – Wimey of Doctor Who” looks into what timey-wimey is exactly with star Arthur Darvill. “The Destinations of Doctor Who” takes up in a time machine to the travels through the universe, you never know where you”ll end up including the year 5 billion. These specials have all originally aired on BBC America but have never-before-released on DVD. They are must have for all “Whovians”.

Series 1 includes all 13 episodes of the BBC sci-fi classic, which served as the reboot for the show. It was written by Russell T. Davies and starred Christopher Eccleston as The Doctor. His joins up with companion Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) to save the world. I liked Eccleson as the Doctor but something was a little off about the way he portrayed him. Episodes included are: “Rose”; “The End of the World”; “The Unquiet Dead”; “Aliens of London”; “World War Three”; “Dalek”; “The Long Game”; “Father”s Day”; “The Empty Child”; “The Doctor Dances”; “Boom Town”; “Bad Wolf”; and “The Parting of the Ways”.

Series 2 included all 14 episodes, primarily written by Russell T. Davies. It also introduces a new Doctor, played by David Tennant. In this series, it features the tenth Doctor continuing to travel with companion Rose Tyler. I liked Christopher Eccleston as the Doctor but Tennant taking over was simply brilliant. Episodes included are: “The Christmas Invasion,” “New Earth,” “Tooth And Claw,” “School Reunion,” “The Girl In The Fireplace,” “Rise Of The Cybermen,” “TheAge of Steel,” “The Idiot”s Lantern,” “The Impossible Planet,” “The Satan Pit,” “Love & Monsters,” “Fear Her,” “Army Of Ghosts” and “Doomsday.” This series really has some of the best episodes to date.

Series 3 includes all 14 episodes and stars David Tennant as the Doctor with companion Martha Jones (Freema Agyeman) after Rose Tyler became stuck in the parallel world..forever. I was never a fan of this series but it has seen grown on me, since it packs some wonderful intense episodes. Episodes included are: “Smith and Jones”, “The Shakespeare Code”, “Gridlock”, “Daleks in Manhattan”, “Evolution of the Daleks”, “The Lazarus Experiment”, “42”, “Human Nature”, “The Family of Blood”, “Blink”, “Utopia”, “The Sound of Drums”, “Last of the Timelords” and the 2006 Christmas special “The Runaway Bride”, starring Catharine Tate.

Series 4 includes all 14 episodes and continues David Tennant playing the Doctor, in his last go around (until the specials) with yet another companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate), who appeared first in “The Runaway Bride”. Episodes included are: “Partners in Crime”, “The Fires of Pompeii”, “Planet of the Ood”, “The Sontaran Stratagem”, “The Poison Sky”, “The Doctor”s Daughter”, “The Unicorn and the Wasp”, “Silence in the Library”, “Forest of the Dead”, “Midnight”, “Turn Left”, “The Stolen Earth” and “Journey”s End”. Overall decent season but not a big fan of Catherine Tate but at least we get more Rose Tyler. Also very sad to see the end of Tennant playing the Doctor.

Series 5 includes all 13 episodes and begins the next wave of the franchise with Matt Smith taking over as The Doctor and Karen Gillan, as his companion, Amy Pond. This is by far one of my favorite seasons as a whole, in sense of the storyline. Episodes included are: “The Eleventh Hour”, “The Beast Below”, “Victory of the Daleks”, “The Time of Angels”, “Flesh and Stone”, “The Vampires of Venice”, “Amy’s Choice”, “The Hungry Earth”, “Cold Blood”, “Vincent and the Doctor”, “The Lodger”, “The Pandorica Opens” and “The Big Bang”. This series is just a wonderful introduction to the companion and really dives the story right from the beginning.

Series 6 includes all 13 episodes and returns the adventures with Matt Smith as the Doctor and Karen Gillan as Amy Pond. Also joining them is Arthur Darvill as Rory Williams and Alex Kingston as River Song. This season started with the death of the Doctor, which ran through the whole series. Definitely an exciting arc for the show. Episodes included are: “A Christmas Carol”, “The Impossible Astronaut”, “Day Of The Moon”, “The Curse Of The Black Spot”, “The Doctor’s Wife”, “The Rebel Flesh”, “The Almost People”, “A Good Man Goes To War”, “Let’s Kill Hitler”, “Night Terrors”, “The Girl Who Waited”, “The God Complex”, “Closing Time”, “The Wedding Of River Song”. These episodes reveal quite a lot of the series. Matt Smith is quickly becoming my favorite Doctor. Amy Pond is also my favorite companion to date.

Series 1 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, numerous making-of featurettes, video diary with Piper and an interview with Eccleston. Series 2 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, video diaries with Tennant, Doctor Who Confidential and Picture-in-picture commentary on The Girl in the Fireplace, The Age of Steel, The Impossible Planet, and Doomsday. Series 3 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, Doctor Who Confidential, Music and Monsters, Freema’s tour of the studio, David Tennant’s Video Diaries, Deleted scenes and Outtakes. Series 4 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, Doctor Who Confidential; video diaries with Tennant; Deleted scenes; Teasers and trailers; Retrospective featurette and Children in Need “Time Crash”. Series 5 special features include audio commentaries from cast/crew; newly filmed scenes written by Steven Moffat, called “Meanwhile in the Tardis”; Doctor Who Confidential; Monster Files; Outtakes; video diaries and Teasers and trailers. Series 6 special features include audio commentaries from cast/crew; five Night and the Doctor specially recorded scenes and episode prequels; two sketches recorded for the UK’s Comic Relief charity event; Monster Files; Doctor Who Confidential and BBC1 Trails.

I highly recommend this limited edition gift set if you are just being introduced to this show or if you have never purchased any of the previously released DVDs. If you are looking for something to hold you over until “Doctor Who” returns next year with the second part of series seven, which features a new companion joining the 11th Doctor. Until then…enjoy revisiting this fun and exciting series.

Starring: Dave Rastovich, Isabel Lucas
Directed by: Justin Krumb
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Studio: Saltwater Collective
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Running Time: 86 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Prior to finding this film, I was well aware of pro surfer Dave Rastovich and his career.  He is not just your typical surfer though he is also a an activist and embarked on a mission to protect dolphins, whales and the oceans that they all share and also to inspire change. This film is nothing short of inspiring.  It is not force fed to “save the oceans etc”. It really shows the love that Dave has for the water and it’s inhabitants. This five-year journey spans all of the world from Australia to the Galapagos to Tonga to California to Alaska and Japan. Like I said it really feels like an adventure and hopefully this will get people to realize what is happening and make a stand.  Even though, I have know about Dave prior to this film, I have have a new respect for him and his passion is infectious.

Official Premise: “Minds in the Water” documents the journey of traveling professional surfer Dave Rastovich, From an ocean minded admirer to an ocean activist. Through the charismatic journey of Dave’s life witness an adventure spanning the globe from Australia and the Galapagos to Tonga, Alaska and Japan. See first hand how one surfer’s quest to protect dolphins and whales has blossomed into a movement of like minds. Minds In The Water message: if ocean minded people are to pass on a sustainable culture, then they must become responsible stewards of their coastal environment.

This award winning documentary not only tells the story of Pro soul surfer Dave Rastovich but also has appearances from Hayden Panettiere, Isabel Lucas, Howie Cooke, Chris Del Moro, and Captain Paul Watson.  There is also some great tunes included from by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jack Johnson, and Xavier Rudd. Definitely a very chill soundtrack to relax to.  I see this film being revisited very often just to experience the vibe and it’s message.  The film is executive producer and directed by Justin Krumb, who is an Emmy Award winning filmmaker and the founder and president of The Saltwater Collective and RoughCuts Productions.  He is the perfect fit for this film and does a wonderful job leading and directing this doc. Highly recommend for not just surfers but everyone who cares about these very important issues.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://www.mindsinthewater.com/
OFFICIAL TRAILER ON YOUTUBE:

Director: Yoshiaki Kawajiri
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Section 23
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

“Ninja Scroll” is easily one of the most influential anime EVER…that’s right ever. It ranks up there with “Ghost in the Shell”, “Fist of the North Star” and “Akira”, as the best things to ever come out of Japan…in terms of anime that is. It was also one of the film that is responsible for introducing and hooking in the US into the format. The film is 20 years old next year but is still completely bad-ass and is able to hold its own in the genre. It is still very graphic as well and packs a nice warning stating “Contains intense scenes of graphic violence” and trust me that warning should not be taken likely. This release is long awaited and thanks to Sentai Filmworks it is presented in HD for the first time.

Official Premise: Swords shatter, blood sprays and demons suck the life out of dying men as the wildest samurai adventure ever made is unleashed to tear your senses asunder! Jubei Kibagami has always been the master dealer of death, but in rescuing a ninja woman from a monster he sets loose a chain of events that puts death in his own veins and sends them on a nightmarish odyssey through a surreal and devil infested ancient Japan. How do demonic possessions, an annihilated village and a man Jubei thought safely buried in his past all connect? If Jubei can’t piece the blood-soaked clues together, his only consolation will be that he won’t live to regret it for very long! Prepare your mind and steel your gut for the insanely gore-packed orgy of violence that still stands alone and unchallenged as the ultimate anime action feature: the epic milestone in animation that is the legendary NINJA SCROLL.

The Blu-ray presentation is glorious. The 1080p transfer is extremely impressive for an animated film almost 20 years aged. The colors are still sharp, especially the red…get it? The audio tracks are also very impressive with a English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. But I am still a fan of the origonal Japanese audio which is delivered in a stunning DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. The only thing disapoointing about this release are the special features. The only extras are an exclusive Japanese commentary track from the director Yoshiaki Kawajiri and a trailer and TV spot. Fans of the film though are going to be satisfying enough it this amazing transfer to Blu-ray that it should be enough to warrant the purchase alone.

Actors: Ayano Shiraishi, Tsutomu Tatsumi, Akemi Yamaguchi, Yoshiko Shinohara, J. Robert Spencer
Directors: Isao Takahata
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Section 23
Release Date: November 20, 2012
Run Time: 89 minutes

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

“Grave of the Fireflies” is based on the semi-autobiographical novel by Akiyuki Nosaka. Sentai Filmworks is the company behind this fantastic release.  They  know their anime and you know that a film/series is in good hands when they are handling it. This has been labeled is one of the top twelve anime of all time by Empire. It has always been a favorite of mine.  It is sweet, yet harsh and powerful.  It tells such a strong story and the animation is just amazing.  For this Blu-ray release, there is also a new English dub track included, but I am still partial to the original Japanese track. Nonetheless, if you are a fan of this film, I highly recommend this release.

Official Premise: As the Empire of the Sun crumbles upon itself and a rain of firebombs falls upon Japan, the final death march of a nation is echoed in millions of smaller tragedies. This is the story of Seita and his younger sister Setsuko, two children born at the wrong time, in the wrong place, and now cast adrift in a world that lacks not the care to shelter them, but simply the resources. Forced to fend for themselves in the aftermath of fires that swept entire cities from the face of the earth, their doomed struggle is both a tribute to the human spirit and the stuff of nightmares. Beautiful, yet at times brutal and horrifying.

This Blu-ray release has a superb 1080p transfer.  The animation really pops out and the colors look stunning.  The film is not extremely bright though due to its circumstances but it still has that “Wow factor”.  Whether you are a fan of the Japanese of English audio, they both have very sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks.  Also included is the original English 2.0 track if you were a fan of that one from the DVD. Besides a stunning Blu-ray presentation, there is not a lot going on in the special features front though.  There is some cool storyboards for the film, as well as deleted scenes in storyboard format. Lastly, there is the Japanese theatrical trailer included.

Starring: Brian Narelle, Cal Kuniholm, Dre Pahich, Dan O’Bannon
Director: John Carpenter
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: VCI Entertainment
Release Date: November 6, 2012
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

I remember the first time that I saw “Dark Star” was in the early 90’s when the box called out to me at the local mom and pop video store.  Since then I have always been a fan of this campy sci-fi that was before its time.  In fact it was released two years prior to “Star Wars” but never really found a large audience, must like all of Carpenter’s films outside of “Halloween”.  I still enjoy watching this film and after all these years, I still get some good laughs out of “Dark Star”.  VCI Entertainment is behind this “Thermostellar Edition” and for price the it is set at, it is a no-brainer for fans of sci-fi and Carpenter’s work.

Official Premise: In the mid twenty-first century, mankind has reached a point in its technological advances to enable colonization of the far reaches of the universe. DARK STAR is a futuristic scout ship traveling far in advance of colony ships. Armed with Exponential Thermosteller Bombs, it prowls the darkest reaches of space on a mission to seek out and destroy unstable planets ahead of the colonist. But there is one obstacle that its crew members did not count on — one of the ship’s thinking and talking bombs is lodged in the bay, threatening to destroy the entire ship and crew!

In this “Thermostellar Edition”, it is a real step up from the VHS copy that I used to watch but the 1080p transfer presented in 1.85:1 is far from perfect. But that is set flat out at the start of the film with Dan O’Bannon’s text prologue, in which he almost apologizes for the transfer state.  So overall it not perfect but still a far cry from terrible.  With the audio on this release their are two tracks, the first is an uncompressed LPCM 2.0 track and also a supped up LPCM 5.1 surround track. I actually enjoyed the 5.1 track quite a bit, especially with Carpenter’s score.

The special features are out of this world…get it? (sorry).  To start there is an audio Commentary by “Super Fan” Andrew Gilchrist, which is decent but not amazing. The star of this release though is the nearly two hour retrospective called “Let There Be Light: The Odyssey of “Dark Star””.  It includes some really great interviews with the cast but Carpenter declined to be a part of the documentary and is only available via archive audio.  Still it is a nice companion to the film. There is an interview with Sci-Fi Author Alan Dean Foster, who did the novelization. There is another interview with Brian Narelle who played Doolittle in the film.  There is a “3D Guide to the Dark Star Ship” which allows viewing of various locations on the ship. Lastly, there is trivia on the film.