Starring: Liam Neeson, Joel Kinnaman and Ed Harris
Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 54 mins
Warner Brothers

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When we first meet Jimmy Conlon (Neeson) he’s flat on his back with a bullet in the side, trying to explain how he got that way. Though the story is a little long, it’s well worth learning.

Jimmy and Shawn Maguire (Harris, in another outstanding character role) have been friends for almost five decades. Doing what they needed to do to earn a living, they both found themselves on the wrong side of the road. However, while Shawn has become a very successful “businessman,” Jimmy likes to drink and play cat and mouse with a police detective (Vincent D’Onofrio), who is trying to pin no less than 17 murders on Jimmy. Both men have sons – Shawn’s boy, Danny (Boyd Holbrook) is a chip off the old block while Michael Conlon (Kinnaman) has distanced himself from his father, earning money as a limo driver while teaching inner-city youths how to box. When a deal Danny organizes, against his father’s wishes, goes bad, Michael inadvertently finds himself on the wrong side of things, causing him to reluctantly have to rely on his pop.

Gorgeously filmed (director Collet-Serra and cinematographer Martin Rhue give New York City its own starring role in the film) and strongly acted, “Run All Night” is another in a long line of “bad ass with a heart of gold” roles for Liam Neeson. Here he plays a tough Irishman who drinks, which I’m pretty sure wasn’t much of a stretch. And while he’s very good here, as he is in pretty much everything he does, I miss the romantic Neeson…the “Love, Actually” Neeson. Here he gets to mete out some fatherly advice while constantly making sure that Michael never fires a shot, afraid he will follow him down hell’s path. The best part of the films are when Neeson and Harris meet up and talk about their lives and their plans. Both men are mesmerizing on screen and they’re fun to watch. They know that their sons are suffering because of them and when they’re in the same room together, the tension grows so fast you may need to take a breath on occasion. The film does manage to run a little long, and an almost “forced” reminder of the New York Rangers hockey team take a little glow off of the film, but all in all, it’s a well recommended film!

Starring: Vince Vaughn, Tom Wilkinson, and Dave Franco
Directed By: Ken Scott
Rated: R
Running Time: 91 Minutes
20th Century Fox

Our Score: 1 out of 5 stars

I would have really liked to enjoy “Unfinished Business”. I really would have. I like Vince Vaughn and believe that his mere presence can perk up the lamest of scripts and that his demeanor can bring life into the dullest of ideas. He’s managed to polish up some of Hollywood’s comedic turds into something that’s passable, but maybe he’s finally hit that wall where he can’t save a script. Or that charm has finally run out for me. Either way, “Unfinished Business” is the low point of Vince Vaughn’s career.

Dan Trunkman (Vaughn) has started his own small sales business and his only employees are Timothy McWinters (Wilkinson) and Mike Pancake (Franco), and that last name is not a typo. His last name is Pancake. If that didn’t make you laugh, then I hate to tell you that that’s a reoccurring that joke that wears thin after the first time, much like most of the humor in this movie.

Dan is the only character with any form of depth or range. He’s a family man who’s struggling to keep his tiny firm above water and worries about whether his children can continue going to private school. There’s also the struggle of being a role model for those kids and the two incompetent employees he’s ended up with. As for Tim, he’s just a dirty old man. Mike is the opposite. He’s a naive boy who apparently hasn’t lost his virginity until all three men need to make a business trip overseas to Europe. Tim and Mike play as one note jokes with Tim constantly talking about how much he wants to wheelbarrow (look it up) a girl and Mike who constantly gives a goofy grin and schoolboy chuckle, followed by an ingenuous question. I honestly can’t think of any other jokes that this movie attempted.

There is this plot about Dan having to land a deal with a company and facing off against his former boss/colleague, but it’s never played out and adds to the general incomplete feeling this movie finds itself in. It pitches itself as a debauchery filled trip for the little guy in corporate America, but there’s only about two to five minutes dedicated to the actually vulgarity of partying and half of that is montages. As for the little guy sticking it to the big bad businesses they find themselves competing with, that’s a missed opportunity heaped upon other missed other opportunities. Most of “Unfinished Business” finds itself stumbling into lazy gags and foreign scenery.

When I heard that Vince Vaughn would be on the second season of HBO’s “True Detective”, I was excited because Vaughn has so much thespianism to offer, but consistently finds himself biting on low hanging fruit. After watching “Unfinished Business”, I’m not as excited and worried that he may be relegated to a secondary character that’s still unbecoming of his acting gift.

Starring: Dev Patel, Judi Dench, Bill Nighy and Maggie Smith
Directed by: John Madden
Rated: PG
Running time: 2 hours 2 mins
Fox Searchlight Pictures

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The irony about being a film critic is that, sometimes, I’m the one that gets criticized for what I’ve written. I know what to expect when I recommend an Adam Sandler film. Sue me, I’m a 13 year old boy in an old man’s body. But this afternoon, as I was preparing this review, I saw a criticism I never would have expected. While going back to see what I had rated the original “Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” I noticed a comment had been left. Basically it read:

There is NO WAY English senior’s immune, digestive system can handle Indian foods, whatsoever. Yet again this is nothing but another nonsensical story set in a place which Western senior-transplants haven’t ANY possibility of surviving. (sic)

Wow! Someone sure had a lot of time on his hands. As well as a much better understanding of the British digestive system then I do. Anyway, I thought I’d share that. And now, on with the show.

When we last left our over enthusiastic innkeeper Sonny Kapoor (Patel), he had just convinced a group of elderly British citizens to call his burgeoning hotel “home.” Today we find him visiting the United States, speeding down the historic Route 66 with the barb-tongued Mrs. Donnelly (Smith) by his side. They meet with the owner of a large international hotel chain (David Strathairn) in the hopes of having him finance Sonny’s dream of another hotel and the beginnings of an empire. Sonny is soon due to marry the lovely Sunaina (Tina Desai) and he wants a new hotel to be a wedding gift to his bride. Sonny and Mrs. Donnelly return to India assured that an inspector from the hotel chain would visit to see how Sonny runs his operation. But when more than one new guest shows up to register for a stay, it is obvious that the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel can use some expansion help.

Cleverly written and expertly acted, “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” is a welcome, sunny treat during these final weeks of winter. Bolstered by Patel’s exuberance and a first rate cast of British acting veterans, the film sometimes returns to the same situations that occupied the first film but with enough charm that it survives on its own merits. Joining the returning cast is Richard Gere, a recently divorced man looking for a quiet place to write a novel. He is smitten with Sonny’s mother (Lillete Dubey), who is unsure how to accept this Western man’s advances. As for the returning residents, we find Evelyn (Dench) now gainfully employed while Douglas (Nighy), continues to silently pine for her. And of course, Mrs Donnelly is as feisty as ever, delivering such lines as “just because I’m looking at you when you’re speaking doesn’t mean I’m paying attention to you,” with the timing of Groucho Marx. These stories, and others, once again intertwine as the wedding day gets closer. Gere is especially good here, doing what he does best, romance. Even at age 65, Gere is, as Sonny points out, “so handsome that even I question my own sexuality.”

Director John Madden, who also helmed the first film as well as “Shakespeare in Love,” has reteamed with writer Ol Parker to bring old friends back together and introduce us to new ones. Not sure if there’s a third story on this hotel, but it’s certainly one I’d be more than happy to visit.

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To celebrate the release of “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb Game” next week, we wanted to share you with a fun digital game called “Knight Flight”. The object of the game is to help Larry collect as many artifacts as you can find while racing through the staircase maze.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings back to life your favorite museum heroes in NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB available on Blu-ray^™ and DVD March 10. Families around the globe have come out to see the hysterical third and final installment in the franchise, which has grossed more than a billion dollars. Now, parents and kids can not only enjoy the best ‘Night’ ever, but also get their hands on a bonus Digital HD movie: their choice of either Night at the Museum or Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian.

Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Mae Whitman, Rosario Dawson, Lucy Liu, Raven-Symoné, Megan Hilty
Director: Steve Loter
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 3, 2015
Run Time: 76 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I have been a fan of the Disney Fairies franchise since the first Tinker Bell movie. They have all been very cute and honestly, each one is better than the next…until this one. “Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast” is easily the weakest in the franchise. The title is misleading as Tinker Bell takes a back seat to her fairy friend Fawn (who was voice re-casted by Ginnifer Goodwin). Unlike the previous films, the one is quite dark and a bit scary for the little ones. It doesn’t have that fairy charm of the previous films either. Plus Gruff aka the NeverBeast is not a likable character at all. I hope Disney resolves this with the next Tinker Bell film.

Official Premise: Return to Pixie Hollow for a heartwarming adventure, Disney’s Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast. An ancient myth of a massive creature sparks the curiosity of Tinker Bell and her good friend Fawn, an animal fairy who’s not afraid to break the rules to help an animal in need. But this creature is not welcome in Pixie Hollow — and the scout fairies are determined to capture the mysterious beast, who they fear will destroy their home. Fawn must convince her fairy friends to risk everything to rescue the NeverBeast.

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy with access in Disney Movies Anywhere. The 1080p transfer is quite impressive still and you can tell the film was made with 3D in mind but, of course, Disney neglected to release on 3D Blu-ray. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is absolutely amazing and very impressive. Singer/songwriter KT Tunstall performs three news songs in the film, including “Float,” “Strange Sight” and “1000 Years” with singer/songwriter Bleu, but it is not the most upbeat song played during the film’s end credits.

The special features like the film is are not very entertaining. “5 Essential Ingredients to Getting Gruff” is a quick chat with Director Steve Loter and crew about the film’s development. “My Dad’s Movie: The True Story of The NeverBeast” features Loter again with his daughter discussing the film. “Jeff Crowin’s Guide to Real-World NeverBeasts” features the well know animal and nature conservationist as he discusses the title character and talks about other “NeverBeast” like characters in real-life. There are four deleted scenes with optional director intros. Lastly “Gruff Love” is a long promo for the film.

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Actors: Jeff Bergman, Kevin Michael Richardson,
Tress MacNeille, Grey Griffin, Eric Bauza, John O’Hurley, Russi Taylor, Brie Bella, Nikki Bella, Daniel Bryan, John Cena
Directors: Spike Brandt, Tony Cervone
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: March 10, 2015
Run Time: 50 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

WWE and Warner Bros have been teamed up on there animated film, “Scooby-Doo! WrestleMania Mystery” last year, which was a fun time. There follow up to that film is “The Flintstones and WWE: Stone Age Smackdown”. This is exciting because there hasn’t been new “The Flintstones” content in 15 years and it is very welcome. This film includes various WWE Superstars including John Cena, Rey Mysterio, The Undertaker and even Vince McMahon himself. I only wish that this was longer than 50 minutes because I wanted so much more or at least lets hope that they have future installments of new “The Flintstones” very soon.

Official Premise: When Fred loses his family’s vacation money, he hatches one of his hair brained plans to get it back. It’s a sports entertainment spectacle that involves throwing his best bud, Barney into the wrestling ring with the likes of John Cenastone (John Cena), Rey Mysteriopal (Rey Mysterio) and even The Undertaker, with Fred himself as event promoter! The crowds roar, the “clams” are pouring in from ticket sales and even Mr. McMagma (Vince McMahon) is taking notice of all the hoopla. Including all-star appearances from The Boulder Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) Marble Henry (Mark Henry) and Daniel Bry-Rock (Daniel Bryan), it’s time to get the whole family together for hard-hitting, side-splitting laughs from the most epic event in all of prehistory!

Warner Bros is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy included. The Blu-ray transfer is solid. The animation looks great and the colors are vibrant. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also sounds great with the voice work and the rope slamming fun. There are also some great special features included as well. There  are two featurette included here. The first is “The Superstars of Fred Flintstone Entertainment (FFE)” and the second one is called “How to Be a Stone Age Superstar”. Both are worth checking out for sure. There are also two bonus cartoons included, which are fun to watch as well.

Own it on Blu-ray™ Combo, DVD & Digital HD March 10

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore
Director: Francis Lawrence
Number of discs: 2
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: March 6, 2015
Run Time: 122 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Unlike the rest of the world “The Hunger Games” franchise, hasn’t delivered for me at all. The first one was just one. I thought that “Catching Fire” was awful and “Mockingjay Part 1” is another long drawn out lead in for the final film. Personally, I love Jennifer Lawrence much more than I did after the first Hunger Games and her character is more likable but the film is not. I will definitely watch the second part of this film to finish the series but expectations are low. I think the whole “Part 1” and “Part 2” business of these epic films are really getting old.

Official Premise: The worldwide phenomenon of The Hunger Games continues to set the world on fire with The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1, which finds Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) in District 13 after she literally shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin (Julianne Moore) and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) and a nation moved by her courage.

Lionsgate is delivering this release as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy included. Even though, I am not crazy about the film, the Blu-ray merits are very impressive. The 1080p transfer is gorgeous. The CGI in the film is well-blended. I was most impressed with the audio tracks. First we get a Dolby TrueHD Atmos, which basically translates to Dolby TrueHD 7.1 for those units that are not compatible. It is an amazing track that delivers the epic feel that the film aims for. There is also an interesting track, which is a 2.0 Dolby Digital Optimized for Late-Night Listening, not very epic but still a neat option.

The special features are also quite impressive. “The Mockingjay Lives: The Making of Mockingjay – Part 1”: is an eight-part feature-length documentary. If you love these films, this is a must watch. There are two featurettes included. The first is “Straight From the Heart: A Tribute to Philip Seymour Hoffman” and the second is “Songs of Rebellion: Lorde on Curating the Soundtrack”. There is also a music video for “Yellow Flicker Beat” from Lorde. Lastly there is an Audio Commentary from Director Francis Lawrence and Producer Nina Jacobson and some deleted scenes.

Starring: Howard Keel, Cyd Charisse, Douglas Fowley, Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Ann Miller
Directors: Stanley Donen, Vincente Minnelli, George Sidney, David Butler, Gene Kelly
Number of discs: 4
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: March 3, 2015

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

There is something about old time musicals. 1952 and 1953 were big years for musicals. This latest 4-Movie Collection includes “Calamity Jane” (1953) / “The Band Wagon” (1953) / “Kiss Me Kate” (1953) / “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952). Other than “Singin’ in the Rain”, the rest of these three films are making their Blu-ray debut in this collection. Personally, the real draw here is the fact that “Kiss Me Kate” is being released in 3D. That’s right, 3D as the film was original made to be seen. Along with these movies, this also includes collectible art cards. If you love musicals, this a must own.

“The Band Wagon” Official Premise: Tony Hunter, a fading film star decides to return to his former glory, the Broadway stage. His playwright-songwriter friends hook him up with Broadway’s hottest director, Jeffrey Cordova, who proves that the “new” theater traditions can be an awkward fit with the old.

“Calamity Jane” Official Premise: When she isn’t tearing up the town, Jane spends her time cussing out Wild Bill Hickok. The plot gets under way when Jane promises the citizens of Deadwood that she can persuade classy Chicago stage star Adelaide Adams to perform at the local opry house. Through a case of mistaken identity, Jane brings Adelaide’s maid Katie back to town. Katie proves to be a success all the same, and out of gratitude promises to make a lady out of Jane, who is sweet on handsome Lt. Gilmartin.

“Kiss Me Kate” Official Premise: At his New York apartment, actor Fred Graham and composer Cole Porter discuss plans to recruit Fred’s ex-wife, actress Lili Vanessi, to star in their new show, Kiss Me Kate , a musical version of William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” Lili arrives, and after singing the love duet with Fred, agrees to consider taking the role of Katherine. They are interrupted by the arrival of flashy dancer Lois Lane, who has used her wiles on Fred to secure the role of Bianca. Jealous words fly between the two women, and Lili prepares to leave, after informing Fred that she is going to be married soon.

“Singin’ in the Rain” Official Premise: Silent movies are giving way to talking pictures – and a hoofer-turned-matinee idol (Gene Kelly) is caught in that bumpy transition, as are his buddy (Donald O’Connor), prospective ladylove (Debbie Reynolds) and shrewish costar (Jean Hagen). Rediscover the musical masterwork, “Singin’ In The Rain”, with a downpour of celebratory special features that salute not just this all-time favorite but also the musical legacy of its producer, songwriter Arthur Freed.

The 1080p transfer for look great for each of the films. I really enjoyed the 3D transfer for “Kiss Me Kate”. This is cool to see since it has never before seen in this format since its theatrical release. So this is real treat. “The Band Wagon”, “Kiss Me Kate 3D” and “Singin’ in the Rain” have equal DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks. They are all equally impressive. The music really works well and sounds very impressive. “Calamity Jane” only carries a DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track. It is still solid but lacks the pop of its fellow films.

Indican Pictures, a major distributor of independently made films, has announced their latest acquisition, the musical-drama “Radio America.”

Written and directed by Chris Showerman and produced by Showerman and Clint Morris under their Showerman label, “Radio America” tells the story of two farm boys who dream of escaping their rural roots to achieve fame and fortune as rock stars.

“If Indican were the stage, and we were musicians, we couldn’t ask for a better stage to present our act. With their passion, knowledge, and skill, they are undoubtedly the right distributor to bring “Radio America” to the masses”, says Morris.

“Radio America” will be released later this year.

Starring: Michael Keaton, Emma Stone, Edward Norton, Andrea Riseborough, Zach Galifianakis, Naomi Watts
Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: February 17, 2015
Run Time: 120 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“Birdman” was easily one of my favorite films of 2015. Michael Keaton gave the performance of a lifetime. I am writing this review after the giant snug from the Academy denying Keaton the Best Actor award. This was a huge mistake because this was finally Keaton’s time. He really gave his all to this role and was not great but mesmerizing. What I loved about this film was that besides the performances, I loved the way it was shot with long and in what seems like unedited takes. This was a very unique and smart film. It may not be for everyone but it is certainly quite amazing.

Official Premise: “Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)” is a black comedy that tells the story of an actor (Michael Keaton) – famous for portraying an iconic superhero – as he struggles to mount a Broadway play. In the days leading up to opening night, he battles his ego and attempts to recover his family, his career, and himself.

Fox is releasing this as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and digital HD copy included. The 1080p transfer looks fantastic. Even though the film has that sort of handheld feel to it, it looks outstanding nonetheless. Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki, who not only won the Oscar for “Gravity”, also just won for “Birdman” last week, really nails the shots in this film. As for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, it works with the dialogue really well. I am still not 100% sold on Antonio Sanchez’s score. Random drumming doesn’t really work for me as an effective score.

The special features are decent but a bit of a letdown to be honest. I was really hoping for a jam-packed commentary track to discuss the deeper aspects of this film but no luck. There is a solid feature called “Birdman: All Access” which runs over 30 minutes and has some great behind the scenes footage. There is also a fun feature called “A Conversation with Michael Keaton and Alejandro G. Iñárritu”. Lastly there is a quick photo gallery included called Chivo’s On Set Photography.

Starring: Ziggy Gruber, Larry King, Jerry Stiller
Directed By: Eric Greenberg Anjou
Running Time: 91 mins
Cohen Media Group

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Viewers would be advised to eat and eat well before attending a screening of Erik Greenberg Anjou’s charming, if a bit long, documentary Deli Man. With copious shots of deli menu staples, if they take nothing else from the film, it will likely be a craving or two. Fortunately there is more to like in the doc than just the matzo ball soup.

Deli Man follows the cultural and economic origins of this Jewish food institution at time when they’re fading out in America. More importantly it follows the quirky characters behind and in front of the counter who are around to make sure it doesn’t despite all obstacles. Anjou’s assembled a broad range of deli aficionados of authors and celebrities including Jerry Stiller and Larry King (the newsman hilariously credited instead as a “Deli Maven”) who gleefully extol the virtues of the perfect corn beef sandwich while peppering in plenty of Yiddish—don’t worry if you’re not of the Jewish persuasion Anjou helpfully has plenty of lower third definitions to keep you up to speed.

More specifically the doc follows one Ziggy Gruber, the affable owner of Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen in Houston Texas. Gruber, himself a Cordon Bleu trained chef, opted to forego high class restaurants in order to uphold the traditional foods of his grandparents. He’s a fun character to be around and his passion for the food and his heritage is contagious. In a touching sequence he returns to the church where his grandparents were married. Gruber is also surrounded by plenty of loving enablers who, while not in the deli business themselves, respect its importance to Ziggy.

The history side of Deli Man is extensive and interesting (those crazy 1900s kids craved more spices than their elders!) though sharing the screen with Gruber leads to the film to feel divided in focus, making the runtime seem longer than it is. Still, the film is extremely likeable and like the delis themselves, sustained by the impassioned characters in front of the counter.

Deli Man begins its limited run on February 27th and expands further on March 6th, for a complete list of cities visit the film’s website.

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Actors: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx
Directors: Sean Anders
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: February 24, 2015
Run Time: 108 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

When I saw 2011’s “Horrible Bosses”, I liked it but I didn’t love it. When I saw a sequel coming out, I had zero interest in seeing it. After watching it, I am happy to report that it was quite the surprise. The sequel actually better than the first film. Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis are funnier than ever together. These guys just crack me up and they must have had a blast working together on this film. I was literally laughing out loud, which is rare recently for today’s comedies. This was a riot and even though not perfect at all, was just a ton of fun.

Official Premise: Fed up with answering to higher-ups, Nick (Bateman), Dale (Day) and Kurt (Sudeikis) decide to become their own bosses by launching their own business in “Horrible Bosses 2.”  But a slick investor soon pulls the rug out from under them. Outplayed and desperate, and with no legal recourse, the three would-be entrepreneurs hatch a misguided plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and ransom him to regain control of their company.

The Blu-ray release of “Horrible Bosses 2” features both the film’s 108-minute theatrical version and a new 116-minute unrated extended cut. Even though longer, I still prefer the theatrical cut cause the extended cut drags in a bunch of spots. Comedies are always better the shorter they are…why don’t people learn this. We also see the return of Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacy this time around. Aniston nails it for sure, laugh riot!! Foxx and Spacy are quick cameos. New cast includes Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz, who still take a back seat to the trio lead.

The special features included are decent. There is “Endless Laughter Guaranteed! which features the cast talking about the film and endless riffs and improv. “Off the Cuff: One-Liners You Didn’t See” is more of the same with a bunch of alternate-take reels are available. “Let the Sexual Healing Begin” is faux promo for Dr. Julia Harris’ Sex Addict Group. “Who Invented the Shower Buddy” is a quick piece on film’s invention. “Nick Kurt Dale INC: Employee Testimonials” features Ray, Lupe and Candy reflecting on their bosses. Lastly “It’s the Shower Buddy Infomercial” is fun promo and “High Speed Crash Course” looks at the film’s chase scene.

Horrible Bosses 2 arrives onto Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on February 24th from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment

Actors: Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, Jamie Chung, Jr. Damon Wayans, Genesis Rodriguez
Directors: Chris Williams Don Hall
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios
Release Date: February 24, 2015
Run Time: 102 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I first saw “Big Hero 6”, I had high expectations from the film since Walt Disney Animation Studios has been really delivering some hits recently with “Frozen” and “Wreck-It Ralph”. After a few viewing though (and quickly becoming one of my daughters favorites) “Big Hero 6” and the lovable Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit) has won me over. This film won the Oscar last night for Best Animated Film and looking back on the year, I couldn’t agree more. I did love “The LEGO Movie” but all around this was the best animated film of the year.  If you haven’t seen this film yet, I highly suggest it since it will definitely will you over! Fist bump!

Official Premise: With all the heart and humor audiences expect from Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Big Hero 6” is an action-packed comedy adventure that introduces Baymax, a lovable, personal companion robot, who forms a special bond with robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada. When a devastating turn of events catapults them into the midst of a dangerous plot unfolding in the streets of San Fransokyo, Hiro turns to Baymax and his diverse group of friends — adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago, neatnik Wasabi, chemistry whiz Honey Lemon and fanboy Fred — who transform into a band of unlikely heroes. Bring From Walt Disney Animation Studios (“Frozen,” “Wreck-It Ralph”), Disney’s “Big Hero 6” introduces you to a lovable robot who will change your world. Join Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit)home Disney’s “Big Hero 6,” featuring comic-book-style action and hilarious, unforgettable characters — it’s fun for the whole family!

Disney is releasing this film on a Collector’s Edition combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy included. The 1080p transfer is beautiful but Disney is still slacking with neglecting to including a 3D Blu-ray of their films. I wish they would smarten up and start releasing 3D Blu-ray’s again. This film looked amazing in 3D and I would love to watch it in 3D again. Still though, I love the colors in this film, The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is outstanding. The action sounds amazing. Why Hiro and Bayamax are souring through the sky, it was a thing of beauty.

In terms of special features, Disney delivers here. First we have the Oscar Winning Theatrical Short “FEAST”. “The Origin Story of “Big Hero 6”: Hiro’s Journey” is hosted by Jamie Chung, voice of Go Go Tomago and takes us behind the scenes. “Big Animator 6: The Characters Behind the Characters” features the film lead animators talking about their creation. There are a few deleted scenes including two alternate openings with intros from Directors Don Hall & Chris Williams. There is also an Easter Egg included called “Big Hero Secrets” which tells you about the film’s secrets.

Number of discs: 1
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 24, 2015
Run Time: 114 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Sofia The First is going on another adventure with her step-sister Amber in “The Curse of Princess Ivy”, this was a decent special episode. It’s highlight was easily the special guest Rapunzel (voiced by Mandy Moore from Disney’s “Tangled”). This show amazes me how it is able to steal my 2.5 year old’s attention until the end credits when she says “Play Sofia again?” Additional episodes included on this DVD are “The Amulet of Avalor”, “Princess Butterfly” and “The Emerald Key”. Also as an added bonus, you will get a very cute butterfly necklace that gets color when exposed in the sunlight. A must have for any “Sofia the First” fan!

Official Premise: The revelation of a spellbinding secret sets in motion the most thrilling adventure in the history of Sofia the First! After learning that the Amulet of Avalor is magical, Amber snatches it while Sofia is sleeping. Unfortunately, she unwittingly unleashes a curse that summons evil Princess Ivy, who threatens to destroy the amulet, seize the crown and turn the entire kingdom black-and-white! Amber and Sofia soar through the skies on a flying dragon – aided by special guest Rapunzel – as they embark on a daring quest to defeat Ivy, break the curse and save Enchancia. Packed with high-flying excitement, plus three more song-filled episodes, The Curse of Princess Ivy shows how love, trust, and unselfishly putting others’ needs first can truly work magic!

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“Birdman or (the Unexpected Virtue of Innocence)” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel” took home the lion’s share of Oscars this evening during the presentation of the 87th Annual Academy Awards.

“Birdman” took home three of the major awards, being named the evening’s Best Picture while Alejandro Gonzalez Innaritu took home the award as Best Director. Innaritu also shared the award (with three others) for Best Original Screenplay. The film also received the award for Best Cinematography, the second win in a row for Emmanuel Lubezki, who won last year for “Gravity.”

“The Grand Budapest Hotel” also received four awards, recognized for it’s Makeup, Production Design, Costume Design and Best Original Score. It was the second year in a row that a past Mediamikes.com interviewee won the Oscar for Best Original Score, with Alexandre Desplat joining last year’s winner, Steven Price.

Eddie Redmayne was recognized as Best Actor for his portrayal of Steven Hawking in “The Theory of Everything” while Julianne Moore, nominated four times previously, was named Best Actress for “Still Alice.” In the supporting categories, J.K. Simmons won the Best Supporting Actor trophy for “Whiplash”, with Patricia Arquette receiving the Best Supporting Actress prize for her work in “Boyhood.” It was the only award the film won out of six nominations. Both Simmons and Arquette had swept the previous award programs so their wins weren’t that unexpected.

In addition to Simmon’s win, “Whiplash” took home Oscars for Best Sound Mixing and Best Film Editing. The Adapted Screenplay prize went to Graham Moore for “The Imitation Game.” Moore gave a well received acceptance speech recalling a suicide attempt as a youngster and the conviction to be yourself. Another emotional moment came when Common and John Legend performed their song, “Glory,” from the film “Selma.” A few moments later they received the Oscar for Best Song. Another highlight of the evening had Lady Gaga performing a musical tribute to the film “The Sound of Music,” which is celebrating it’s 50th Anniversary this year.

Host Neil Patrick Harris was not as well used as he has been in the past on other award programs, most notably the Tony Awards. Like Ellen Degeneres last year, he basically introduced presenters and bantered a little with the audience. Hopefully Billy Crystal’s schedule will be open next year!

A COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERS

BEST PICTURE – “Birdman”

BEST ACTOR – Eddie Redmayne – “The Theory of Everything”

BEST ACTRESS – Julianne Moore – “Still Alice”

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR – J.K. Simmons – “Whiplash”

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS – Patricia Arquette – “Boyhood”

BEST DIRECTOR – Alejandro Gonzalez Innaritu – “Birdman”

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY – “Birdman”

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY – “The Imitation Game”

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM – “Big Hero 6”

BEST FOREIGN FILM – “IDA” (Poland)

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE – “The Grand Budapest Hotel”

BEST ORIGINAL SONG – “Glory” from the film “Selma”

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY – “Birdman”

BEST COSTUME DESIGN – “The Grand Budapest Hotel”

BEST MAKEUP – “The Grand Budapest Hotel”

BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN – “The Grand Budapest Hotel”

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE – “Citizenfour”

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT SUBJECT – “Crisis Hotline: Veteran’s Press One

BEST FILM EDITING – “Whiplash”

BEST ANIMATED SHORT FILM – “Feast”

BEST LIVE-ACTION SHORT FILM – “The Phone Call”

BEST SOUND EDITING – “American Sniper”

BEST SOUND MIXING – “Whiplash”

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS – “Interstellar”