Starring the voices of: Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks and Chris Pratt
Directed by: Phil Lord and Christopher Miller
Rated: PG
Running time: 1 hour 40 mins
Warner Brothers

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Everything is Awesome!” Or so goes the very catchy song that plays constantly on the radios of the citizens of Bricksburg, personally approved by President Business. An appropriate song, as it fit’s the movie it’s featured in perfectly.

An amazing film on so many levels, the creators of “The Lego Movie” have taken a simple plaything – seriously, it’s a block of plastic – and turned it into a fun, action packed adventure for the whole family. The story begins when Lord Vitruvius (voiced by the great Morgan Freeman) informs his followers that one day a “master builder” will show him/her self and find the missing piece to save their world. Eight and a half years later we’re introduced to Emmet (Pratt), an ordinary citizen with an ordinary job who happily sings along with the above mentioned song, watches the land’s number one television show (“Where Are My Pants?”) and lives his life by the instructions provided. One day he stumbles onto a work site where he interrupts Wyldstyle (Banks) in mid-search for the legendary missing piece. Soon he is drafted into a rebel group that includes many of the familiar pop culture characters of the past 50 years, from Batman (Will Arnett) to Lando Calrissian (Billy Dee Williams). Pursued by Bad Cop (Liam Neeson), the group manages to stay one step ahead of being captured. They discover a plot to destroy their world, courtesy of a weapon known as KRAGLE. Can our heroes save the day? Come on…Lando Calrissian.

I must admit that I never really played with LEGOs as a kid. The fact that I couldn’t even build a square probably had something to do with that. But I’ve always admired the people that can take a box and build the Death Star from “Star Wars.” That admiration grows 10 fold for the makers of this film. Everything you see on screen – from the characters, their homes…even the clouds in the sky and the water in the ocean…is a LEGO. And if you can, catch this in 3D – it’s pretty incredible. The action on screen is accompanied by some great voice actors obviously having fun. As Batman, Arnett steals the film, so much so that you can only hope for a stand-alone Batman/LEGO film one day. Others dropping by to lend their talents include Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Dave Franco and Nick Offerman. Even Shaquile O’Neal drops by. Morgan Freeman and Shaq – you’re not going to see these two guys together on screen very often. That’s awesome!

Starring: George Clooney, Matt Damon and Bill Murray
Directed by: George Clooney
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 58 mins
Columbia

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

In a review written about George Clooney’s directorial debut, “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,” the critic noted that Clooney’s work behind the camera signaled the introduction of a major filmmaking talent. Nine Academy Award nominations and two Oscar wins later, that critic proved to be right. And though I don’t like blowing my own horn I should point out here that the critic was me. A decade later, Clooney continues to impress me with his latest film, the World War II drama “Monuments Men.”

Ghent, Belgium. Despite the protests of the protective clergy, a group of Nazis is in the process of stealing the historically valuable Ghent Altarpiece. Twelve painted panels with a value to Christians that can’t be measured in money. Unfortunately, all over Europe, wherever the Nazis have gained a foothold, this story is repeated thousands and thousands of times. From large galleries to the collections from the private sector, Hitler has decreed that any and all valuable art be confiscated. His plan is to open a museum in his hometown where he can display these items. Enter Frank Stokes (Clooney), an art historian who has pressured President Roosevelt into allowing him to form a band of likeminded men in the hopes of saving history. “We need to know if the Statue of David is still standing…if the Mona Lisa is still smiling.”

Based on a true story, “The Monuments Men” tells the story of Stokes’ team and the missions they underwent to ensure that past civilizations, long gone but still remembered because of their artifacts, would not be destroyed. Though the team is made up of fellow art historians and curators, they first must endure military basic training because they must travel as part of the military. The group includes James Granger (Damon), curator of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, his English counterpart, Donald Jeffries (Hugh Bonneville) and French historian Jean Claude Clermont (“The Artist” Oscar winner Jean Dujardin). They are joined by three American scholars, played by John Goodman, Bob Balaban and Bill Murray. The three provide some comic relief but also some of the film’s most dramatic scenes. All are perfectly cast as is Cate Blanchett, who plays a French art curator who stands accused of helping the Nazi’s steal that country’s artifacts. As the war begins to wind down the men learn that the Russian army, in an attempt to recoup some of its monetary losses, is also looking for the stolen art with the intentions of keeping it.

Credit Clooney, the director for surrounding Clooney, the actor, with a top rate cast. Each actor is a perfect complement to the others, with no one overshadowing the other. Damon is solid, as are the rest of the actors. If I had to single out a group it would be the three scholars. All have done incredible supporting work in the past and they continue that trait here. They know why they’ve been chosen and they know what is at stake. All three bring a touch of realism to the moments depicted, with Murray making himself an early name to consider for next year’s Oscars. Technically the film is well made, with great affection and attention to detail while composer Alexandre Desplat’s score sets the perfect mood.

Actors: Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, Diane Kruger
Directors: Jaco Van Dormael
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Run Time: 157 minutes

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

When I first saw the trailer for “Mr. Nobody” on a Blu-ray for another film from Magnolia Home Entertainment. I thought how the hell haven’t I heard about this film. In fact, this film was made back in 2008 and was even released on DVD and Blu-ray Disc in France on in 2010, through Pathé. This film is most likely getting the treatment in the U.S. due to Leto’s role in “Dallas Buyer’s Club”. The film is very interesting and quick visually impressive. If you are a looking for something different on a Friday night, I would definitely recommend checking this out. It is quite unique and keeps your interest through the whole film.

Official Premise: “Mr. Nobody” tells the life story of Nemo Nobody, a 118 year-old man who is the last mortal on Earth after the human race has achieved quasi-immortality. On his deathbed, Nemo shares his life story with a reporter and reviews the choices he made along the way. Yet even with his last breath, a pivotal decision awaits to conclude his destiny.

The 1080p transfer is quite impressive. The film has quite a bit of visual effects and they really looks stunning.  Also benefiting from this is the impressive cinematography. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is also works very well, especially with Pierre Van Dormael’s score. This Blu-ray is also a treat people it includes an Extended Director’s Cut of the film, which runs at a stunning 157 minutes. The theatrical version is also included on the disc, which runs 141 minutes, though in only presented in 720p. The special features are a let down since there is only a short EPK featurette, “AXS TV: A Look at Mr. Nobody” and a Theatrical Trailer.

Actors: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Tom Hollander
Directors: Richard Curtis
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: February 4, 2014
Running Time: 123 minutes

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

“About Time” locked in my interest since it is from the director of “Love Actually”, Richard Curtis. This is in fact Ricahrd Curtis’ last film ever (which is a damn shame). The film has a stunning cast, who all give funny yet touching performances including Rachel McAdams (“The Notebook”), Bill Nighy (“Love Actually”) and Domhnall Gleeson (“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 & Part 2“). Usually I am not a huge fan of romantic comedies but when I read this featured time travel, that was enough of a sell for me. “Love Actually” is one of my favorite films ever and Richard Curtis has done it again, he does not only entertain you with this film but also able to get a grown man to shed some tears. I cannot recommend this film anymore, no question it is one of the best films I have seen recently.

Official Premise: The night after another unsatisfactory New Year party, Tim’s (Domhnall Gleeson) father (Bill Nighy) tells his son that the men in his family have always had the ability to travel through time. Tim can’t change history, but he can change what happens and has happened in his own life – so he decides to make his world a better place…by getting a girlfriend (Rachel McAdams). But as his unusual life progresses, Tim finds out that his unique gift can’t save him from the sorrows and ups and downs that affect all families, everywhere. From filmmaker Richard Curtis (Love Actually), About Time is a comedy about love and time travel, which discovers that, in the end, making the most of life may not need time travel at all.

Universal consistently delivers fantastic Blu-ray releases. They really have been a leader for this format and when I receive a Universal release, I am usually never let down. “About Time” comes stocked as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy with UltraViolet. This film is a romantic comedy, so it doesn’t push the barriers too much but the 1080p transfer is quite impressive still. The shooting locations definitely do take advantage of this format though. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track works great with the film. I was a big fan of the score by Nick Laird-Clowes and I thought it sounded great.

There are some great special features for this release. “About Tim and Time Travel” looks into the mechanics of time travel and Tim’s ability. “The Look – Style and Locations” looks into the various iconic London locations. “The World of Richard Curtis” looks into the director’s look and feel of a film. Next up, there is a fantastic jam-packed audio commentary track with Director Richard Curtis and Domhnall Gleeson, Bill Nighy, Vanessa Kirby, Lydia Wilson and Tom Hollander. There are some deleted scenes with introductions by Director Richard Curtis, as well as blooper reel. The “Luckiest” Music looks at why Curtis picked Ben Folds’ “The Luckiest”. Lastly there is a music video for Ellie Goulding ‘s “How Long Will I Love You?”, which is such a beautiful song and adds so much to the film itself!

Actors: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Rupert Graves, Una Stubbs, Mark Gatiss
Directors: Jeremy Lovering, Colm McCarthy, Nick Hurran
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 262 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

“Sherlock” has become quite the high profile show in the last year or so, most likely due to the blowing up of actor Benedict Cumberbatch. The combination of him with Martin Freeman (another phenomonal actor) is just so perfect. I know that these episodes are like little mini-movies but I would have loved to have more than just three episodes included this season. Hopefully BBC knows what it has on its hands now and before Cumberbatch gets too big, I hope they lock in another season quick.  The three episodes included are: “The Empty Hearse,” “The Sign of Three” and “His Last Vow.” If you enjoyed the first two seasons, this one builds on them and doesn’t disappoint.

Official Premise (Spoiler Alert if you haven’t seen Season 1 & 2): Two years after the devastating fallout of “The Reichenbach Fall,” Dr. John Watson has moved on with his life. New horizons, romance and a comforting domestic future beckon. But with London under threat of a huge terrorist attack, Sherlock Holmes is about to return with all the theatricality that comes so naturally. It’s what his best friend wanted more than anything, but for John Watson it might well be a case of “be careful what you wish for.” If Sherlock thinks everything will be just as he left it, though, he’s in for a very big surprise.

This Blu-ray arrives just two weeks after the conclusion of the series in the U.S. and as much as I wanted to have it immediately, I feel that BBC might have rushed a little too much to get this one out there. The episodes are only presented with an 1080i transfer. The transfers doesn’t look bad but its the point of the matter that bugs me. I know they can do better since shows like “Doctor Who” were upgraded to 1080p also. Same goes for the soundtrack, since here we only get a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. Now I’ve said this before but that isn’t Blu-ray quality for me. I was quite disappointed overall with the choices they went it.

I know that BBC hasn’t been including a Digital HD copy for shows like “Doctor Who” but they did with mini-series “Spies of Warsaw” and this show reminds me of that kind of show. I would have loved to see this available for Ultraviolet. In terms of special features, there are three featurettes included. The first is “The Fall”, which looks into this season’s events. Next up is “Fans, Villains & Speculation: The Legacy of Sherlock Holmes” looks into the popularity of the show and the character. Lastly “Shooting Sherlock” focusing on the production for this season.

Anton King is an Australian writer-director, who made his started in the business by premiering short films to the film festival circuit. One of those short films, “Lust for Love”, was just turned into a feature film which packs a fantastic cast including Fran Kranz (“Dollhouse”) and Dichen Lachman (“Dollhouse”) and Beau Garrett (“Tron Legacy”). Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Anton about the film and how fans can see it.

Mike Gencarelli: “Lust for Love” was originally a short film you did back in 2007; what made you turn it into a feature?
Anton King: The “Lust for Love” short was one of the first films I made, it’s a sex comedy that played at the Melbourne Underground Film Festival a long time ago. I just always liked the title so I decided to reuse it.

MG: Tell us about how you financed the entire film from your Kickstarter campaign?
AK: We were blessed with the support of our Kickstarter backers and many volunteers who contributed to the production, however like most independent films Lust for Love took longer and cost more than anticipated. After shooting the film we obtained other investment necessary to complete and deliver it, although we’re still very proud of what we were able to achieve given our limited budget.

MG: Tell us how you got Fran Kranz and Dichen Lachman and many others from the “Whedonverse” involved with the film including Enver Gjokaj, Miracle Laurie, Maurissa Tancharoen and Felicia Day?
AK: I think the performances in Lust for Love are definitely one of its best attributes, and we were certainly lucky to get such a great cast. I’ve known Dichen and Caitlin since they played sisters together on the Australian show “Neighbours”, and I got to know the “Dollhouse” cast through Dichen. I was even fortunate enough to shadow the director Félix Alcalá for one of the episodes of “Dollhouse”. Maurissa asked me if I wanted to direct the music video for her song “Remains” and we cast Fran in that too. When Dichen and I were casting “Lust for Love” we just chose great actors we knew that were available, so the cast is a mix of people she’d worked with on “Dollhouse”, and some Australian actors we knew. We also cast Karim Saleh who’s just an endlessly entertaining close friend of ours and Beau Garrett who Fran recommended.

MG: Honestly, I am not a big romantic comedy fan but you blend the two so well; tell us about this achievement?
AK: With both I just tried to keep it organic and not to overplay anything, but of course it’s difficult when you’re working in a genre that has no real darkness. It’s no coincidence that two of the most respected romantic comedies “Annie Hall” and “(500) Days of Summer” are actually about couples that aren’t supposed to be together and that don’t end up together. I also think that Lust for Love is helped by the fact that it’s about one guy chasing lots of girls rather than just one girl.

MG: Love the music in the film for example Jed Whedon and Jack Savoretti; tell us about that aspect of the film?
AK: The music supervisor Brienne Rose and I worked really hard to find the right songs for the film and Dichen came up with quite a number of selections too. While our composer Darren Morze created many wonderful pieces. It was a long process of trial and error, but for a film like this the music’s really important. Jed and his wife Maurissa were really supportive of the film and let us use both “Tricks On Me” and “Heat Of A Match” which are two of my favorites from Jed’s album “History of Forgotten Things”. We were also contacted through Kickstarter by Ryan Darton who allowed us to use songs from his album “I Am A Moth”.

MG: You juggled quite a few hats with this film; what was your biggest challenge?
AK: Perhaps the biggest challenge in making “Lust for Love” has been dealing with the sheer volume of work and the fact that it continues for so long. With such a small team and budget there’s been a lot we’ve had to do ourselves. Creatively, screenwriting is of course endlessly challenging, and we spent quite a bit of time in the edit making sure the non-linear narrative was clear.

Tell us how and where can fans see this film and what do you have planned next?
AK: “Lust for Love” is available on VOD and iTunes from Feb 7 in the US and Canada with DVD and foreign releases coming soon.

Starring: Owen Wilson, Woody Harrelson and Amy Poehler
Director: Jimmy Hayward
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: February 4, 2014
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

“Free Birds” is not a bad movie, it is just not a great movie. The story is kinda blah and rather bland. The animation is solid and there are some good jokes but just nothing special. What the film does have is a solid voice cast including Owen Wilson, Woody Harrelson and Amy Poehler. In fact, this film was released in theaters in 3D and that was actually the best aspect of the film…yet there is no 3D Blu-ray. Kids might enjoy. Parents will hate.

Official Premise: From the Academy Award-Winning producer of Shrek comes a hilarious animated adventure about two turkeys from opposite sides of the tracks who travel back in time in order to keep their species off the Thanksgiving menu. Featuring an all-star voice cast, including Owen Wilson, Woody Harrelson and Amy Poehler, Free Birds is loaded with laughs and stuffed with fun for the whole family!

The 1080p transfer is sharp and like I said the animation is quite vibrant and crisp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works well the film’s antics. The special features are decent. There consist of a few featurettes: Birds Flipping History, Animating Free Birds: The Main Course, Winging It: Animators in Action, Talking Turkey with Composer Dominic Lewis, Shake a Tail Feather and a theatrical trailer. The extras aren’t very kid friendly but do have some good behind-the-scenes content.

Enver Gjokaj is know best for his role of Victor in Joss Whedon’s “Dollhouse”. He also appeared in a small role in “The Avengers”, again with Joss Whedon and the new TV series “Witches of East End”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Enver about his new film “Lust for Love” and reuniting with his “Dollhouse” cast.

Mike Gencarelli: How was it reuniting with your “Dollhouse” cast members for “Lust for Love”?
Enver Gjokaj: We have always been good friends even after “Dollhouse” ended. “Dollhouse” was one of those jobs that spoiled you on every other job. You get a job and it is your first job and you think that every job will be like this…but it is not [laughs]. I have made though so many great friends from that show. Dichen (Lachman) and I are practically best friends. So we have been hanging out for a while and that is from where the inception of the film began. We were always looking for another project for all of us to do. We also wanted to figure out how much we would be able to do on our own. This was one of those projects. Everyone involved just wanted to see what we could do and it ended up being quite a lot actually.

MG: When you work with friends, do you find it more challenging or easier?
EG: It depends. Of course we love each other, so we had a ton of fun. When you are shooting something on a budget, there is no one hat so to speak. Dichen, who was the main actor and also producer, would go from setting a table for lunch straight to in front of the camera [laughs]. She wore many different hats but for me I just got to be an actor for this, which was a total pleasure. Anton (King), the director, gave me total layaway and I made the character my own. I went in a pretty comedic direction with him.

MG: Jake was definitely a funny character, tell what you enjoyed most about him?
EG: I loved it because nobody really lets me do comedy [laughs]. I have done a lot of auditions for comedies but in terms of stuff I’ve gotten hired for, I do not think people are aware that I am able to be funny [laughs]. It has been quite a few years since I was able to do quite a broad character. Anton was great and very encouraging. I would do something and it would be way over the top and then I would come to him after all apologetic. He was like “Are you kidding me? Go farther…more…more”. So that was a total pleasure since you do not often get to take the limits off a character and get to do whatever you want. There is a part where I slapped Fran (Kranz)’s character with a piece of chicken and all of that just came out of the moment. Also for me playing a lovable dickhead is right in my pocket, so to speak [laughs].

MG: What is your technique when preparing for a role?
EG: For this character, I really found him at the table readings. At first I didn’t know what to do with him. I feel like a lot of time you read a role over and over and it eventually shows itself to you. I do not think anyone planned for this character to be so broad. You really don’t plan it though and after a while it just comes out naturally.

MG: What else do you have in the cards for 2014?
EG: Right now, I am excited for “Lust for Love” getting released. Also we are in pilot season now and everyone is casting the new TV shows. I am out there auditioning for a lot of stuff. So I will see if anything comes out of it.

Actors: Monica Calhoun, Morris Chestnut, Melissa De Sousa, Taye Diggs, Regina Hall
Directors: Malcolm D. Lee
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
DVD Release Date: February 11, 2014
Running Time: 123 minutes

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

In 1999, I was working at a video store and I remember that the ensemble comedy “The Best Man” was almost impossible to keep on the shelves. This all-new sequel reunites the cast together again for a reunion packed with plenty of laughter, love, and surprises. The returning ensemble cast includes Morris Chestnut (“Identity Thief”), Terrence Howard (“Hustle & Flow”), Taye Diggs (“Baggage Claim”), Nia Long (“Soul Food”), Sanaa Lathan (“Contagion”), Regina Hall (“Scary Movie franchise”), Harold Perrineau (“Zero Dark Thirty”), Monica Calhoun (“Love & Basketball”) and Melissa De Sousa (“Miss Congeniality”). If you enjoyed the first film, you are going to love this film. I do know why they waited so long to come out with this but I am sure that they are not going to make that mistake again. I am sure that “The Best Man 3” is right around the corner.

Official Premise: Share the laughter, love and surprises as Harper (Taye Diggs), Lance (Morris Chestnut), Quentin (Terrence Howard), Jordan (Nia Long), Robyn (Sanaa Lathan), Mia (Monica Calhoun), Murch (Harold Perrineau), Candy (Regina Hall) and Shelby (Melissa De Sousa) all reunite for the first time in years. As they share their triumphs and tragedies, these college friends soon discover how easy it is to reignite long-forgotten rivalries and romances—all while new discoveries are made and secrets are revealed.

Universal delivers “The Best Man Holiday” as a Blu-ray Combo Pack including a Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD with UltraViolet. The 1080p transfer is very polished and really captures the holiday spirit…even in February. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works well with the films music, which sounds great. In terms of special features, there is an Alternate Ending, Gag Reel as well as some Deleted and Extended Scenes with Commentary by Writer/Director/Producer Malcolm D. Lee. There is also a audio commentary track with Malcolm D. Lee. “Smack Talk” looks at the filming of the girl fight scene. Lastly we have “Holiday Reunion: The Making of The Best Man Holiday” which goes behind-the-scenes with cast and crew.

Starring: Phil Harris, Sebastian Cabot, Louis Prima, George Sanders, Bruce Reitherman, J. Pat O’Malley
Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 78 minutes

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

“The Jungle Book” is a Disney classic and packs some of the best and most fun jazzy, toe-tapping songs, including “I Wan’na Be Like You” and Academy Award-nominated classic “The Bare Necessities”. My 20-month old daughter has been watching the commercials of this Blu-ray and has already been dancing to the music. This is the first time that this film has ever been released on Blu-ray and also the first in almost seven years that it has been released from the Disney vault. “The Jungle Book” was Disney’s 19th animated masterpiece and also the last animated feature to have Walt Disney’s personal touch. Already watched this twice with my daughter, I have a feeling we are going to get a lot of use out of this.

Official Premise: Meet the most unforgettable characters and embark on a thrilling adventure with Mowgli as he journeys deep into the jungle and learns The Bare Necessities of life from happy-go-lucky Baloo the bear. Meet Bagheera, the wise old panther, and crazy King Louie, the orangutan. But watch out for the cunning tiger Shere Khan and Kaa, the ssssneakiest snake in the jungle! Explore your family’s wild side as you venture into The Jungle Book for extraordinary adventures and a heartwarming tale that celebrates the true meaning of friendship.

Disney released “The Jungle Book” under it’s Diamond Edition banner. It comes in a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy included. The 1080p transfer is absolutely fantastic. I remember watching this film on VHS as a kid and now as a adult, I was literally blown away by this presentation. My daughter was literally glued to the TV and just kept pointing at all the characters and naming them. There are two options for this film in terms of audio. There is a super impressive, brand new DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. It is fantastic and really works well with the music. It also comes with the original theatrical Dolby Digital Mono track as well for audio purists.

There is some great new special features created for this Blu-ray. There is a brief intro by composer Richard Sherman, which is option way to start the film. There is an 18-minute promo featurette for Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. There is an alternate ending included “Mowgli and The Hunter”, which is presented in storyboard format. There is also a fantastic 40-minute documentary “Growing up With Nine Old Men”, which includes a series of interviews looking into chief animators. The rest of the remaining extras have all been ported over from previous DVD editions.

There is a very interesting audio commentary track with the voice of Mowgli, Bruce Reitherman, Composer Richard Sherman and interview footage edited in from members of the original production team. There is also a five-part “Making of”, which runs just over 45 minutes. Rounding out the rest of the extras include four additional featurettes, a wildlife video for kids, seven deleted songs, sing-along lyrics and music video from Jonas Brothers. Of course, be sure to also pause the film when watching to take advantage of “Disney Intermission”, which is hosted by Baloo.

Actors: Russi Taylor, Bret Iwan, Tony Anselmo, Bill Farmer
Directors: Donovan Cook
Studio: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 102 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Minnie-rella” is the latest special episode for the long running Disney Junior series “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse”. The episode is set to air on February 14th on Disney Junior but fans can get it early with this DVD release. Disney Junior has been already showing commercials for this special and my 20 month old daughter has been eating them up. She recently discovered “Cinderella”, also courtesy of Disney Junior and she has since fallen in love with it. This is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a very sweet classic story told with the  “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” twist. A must own for any parent who would like to invites their little princess to the ball!

Official Premise: Mouseke-magic meets storybook enchantment in a charming Clubhouse adventure inspired by your favorite fairy tale! To surprise Minnie with a special present, Mickey and the gang keep her busy with loads of chores until they pick out the perfect gift. Tired from so much work, Minnie falls asleep. and her dreamy fantasy begins. With a “Mouseke-doodle-lee-do,” Fairy Godmother Clarabelle waves her wand and sets the magic in motion. Will Minnie-Rella make it to Prince Mickey’s castle in time? What will happen at midnight? Will the slipper fit? With help from YOU – and the right Mouseketools – happily ever after is just a wish away!

Disney did a great job of also include three additional episodes from “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” as a bonus feature to this release. Included are the following: “Pluto’s Tale”, “Mickey and the Enchanted Egg” and “Daisy’s Pony Tale”. These are all great episodes and fit in well with the fairy tale theme as well. Also there is still more with ten additional bonus “Minnie’s Bow-Toons” from season two of the short series. Lastly included with the DVD as an extra bonus for kids is a castle pop-up play set.

Actors: Jaleel White, Reginald Veljohnson, Jo Marie Payton, Rosetta Lenoire, Darius McCrary
Number of discs: 3
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: February 4, 2014
Run Time: 528 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I remember every Friday night, my whole family would make such a big deal for “TGIF” on ABC, which included “Family Matters”, “Step By Step”, “Full House” and others like “Dinosaurs”. This was a time when families used to spend time together and watch them as a family. I always look back on shows like “Family Matters” with such fond memories. I am happy to see that this still still has a life on DVD and the kids that grew up with this show can now share it with their own families.

Official Premise: Family Matters: The Complete Fourth Season includes all 24 episodes filled with lots of laughter! Life lessons and laughs go hand in hand with the Winslow family and their ever-present neighbor Steve Urkel. So whether it’s hilarity on Halloween, a comical crisis on Christmas, a veritable “va-va-voom!” on Valentine’s Day or a memorable moment on a Monday, every day can be a good day with Family Matters.

Here are some pivotal moments of the fourth season: Michelle Thomas guest stars as Myra, Steve’s girlfriend. Carl and Steve compete on “American Gladiators” in hopes of settling a dispute. I actually remember where I was the first time I watched this episode. It is so funny how certain past events stick with you. Other craziness included when Urkel literally glues himself to Laura’s side. These are only a few of the great episodes included in this season. In fact season three was when this show really found its legs and this season was riding on those legs and delivered some of the best episodes.

“Family Matters: The Complete Third Season” was released in February 2013 and here we are in February 2014 with the release of “The Complete Fourth Season”. I wish that Warner Bros. would pick up the pace with this series and stop making fans wait a year before seasons. It is not like they are still airing this show. With nine seasons in total, at this pace fans will have to wait until 2019 before they can have the complete series on DVD, not to mention Blu-ray, which is the most current format. Please do not make us wait that long.

Actors: Amelia Kinkade, Cathy Podewell, Allison Barron, Alvin Alexis, Linnea Quigley
Directors: Kevin Tenney
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: February 4, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

When I was a kid, I used to rent from the video store called Royal Video (now long gone) in Long Island, NY. I remember they used to have a huge standee advertising this film and probably drew me into watching this film way too young. Amelia Kinkade was so great in the role of Angela. One of my favorite Screen Queens, Linnea Quigley, steals the show. This film is a perfect example of a great 1980’s splatter-fest. It has what every a guy would want in a horror movie. If you grew up with this film as I have, I highly recommend this. Hopefully Shout! is planning on releasing the two sequels on Blu-ray as well. They can keep the terrible remake though 😉

Official Premise: It’s Halloween night and Angela is throwing a party, but this is no ordinary spook bash. Everybody’s headed to Hull House, a deserted funeral home with a shocking secret in its past and something evil alive in its basement. Now the guests are becoming possessed, and this party’s treats include tongue-ripping, eyeball gouging, gratuitous nudity, bloody dismemberment and more. Welcome to the blowout where all Hell is breaking loose: You’re invited to Night Of The Demons.

This film flies onto Blu-ray with a fantastic Blu-ray transfer. I feel that the film has never looked better. I remember viewing this on VHS and if I only could have see it this way because it looks great. The DTS-HD Master Audio track also works so well with the film’s music and the scares as well. This Blu-ray/DVD combo pack comes with a great new cover art and also the classic poster artwork as well on the reserve side.

In terms of special features, there are a few great brand new extras created for this release. There is a new commentary track with Director Kevin Tenney and actors Cathy Podewell, Hal Havins, Billy Gallo and FX artist Steve Johnson. This one is a blast and great way to revisit this film. There is also another audio commentary track with Director Kevin Tenney, Executive Producer Walter Josten and Producer Jeff Geoffray. There are also new interviews with cast and crews including director Kevin Tenney, riter/producer Joe Augustyn and actress Linnea Quigley. Lastly there is a Promo Reel, trailers, TV spots and still galleries included.

Actors: Robert Redford
Directors: J. C. Chandor
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: February 11, 2014
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

You have to give it to Robert Redford, the guy is 77 years old and he is still able to rock a role like “All is Lost”. The film was quite intense and was able to keep my full attention…for about half the film. I wasn’t able to take my eyes off the screen. I really cared for the character but this would have worked much better as a 90 minutes film. In terms of acting though, he gave what a hell of a performance and he does it basically without speaking. Very few actors are able to pull that off. So if you are looking for a film with great acting, I would recommend checking this out but personally it just didn’t do it for me.

Official Premise: Academy Award winner Robert Redford stars in “All is Lost”, an open-water thriller about one man’s battle for survival against the elements after his sailboat is destroyed at sea. Using only a sextant and nautical maps to chart his progress, he is forced to rely on ocean currents to carry him into a shipping lane in hopes of hailing a passing vessel. But with the sun unrelenting, sharks circling and his meager supplies dwindling, the ever-resourceful sailor soon finds himself staring his mortality in the face.

Lions Gate is releasing this film as a combo pack with Blu-ray and Digital HD Ultraviolet copy. The 1080p transfer is solid and really makes you feel like you are at sea with Mr. Redford. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works well to create the drama and almost succeeds in getting you sea sick. The special features are a score, no question. There is a solid audio commentary from Writer/Director/Producer J.C. Chandor and Producers Neal Dodson and Anna Gerb. There are  two featurettes “Big Film, Small Film” and “Preparing for The Storm”, which also includes focus on Storyboards, VFX Reel and Pre-Shooting. There are four vignettes looking at the The Story, The Filmmaker: JC Chandor, The Actor: Robert Redford and The Sound of All Is Lost. Lastly there is Time-lapse Footage for the film, which is pretty cool to check out.

Actors: Alan Tudyk, Michelle Monaghan, Shemar Moore, Sean Astin, Christopher Gorham
Directors: Jay Oliva
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: February 4, 2014
Run Time: 79 minutes

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

“Justice League: War” is based on the 2012 graphic novel, “Justice League: Origin” and focuses on the world before the Justice League was created and gives us a new animated incarnation of DC Entertainment’s “The New 52”. The DCU movies are getting better and better with each new title. This one is edgy and really uses its PG-13 to the fullest. There is some decent kills, some of which are quite bloody. I just really enjoyed this origin story all around. I will be anxiously waiting for Spring’s “Son of Batman” up next.

The film packs a solid voice cast including Jason O’Mara as Bruce Wayne/Batman, Christopher Gorham as Barry Allen/The Flash, Justin Kirk as Hal Jordan/Green Lantern, Alan Tudyk as Clark Kent/Superman, Michelle Monaghan as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman, Shemar Moore as Victor Stone/Cyborg, Sean Astin as Shazam, Bruce Thomas as Desaad and Steve Blum as Darkseid. I did not think that Alan Tudyk at first would make a great Superman…but he definitely nailed it.

Official Premise: When the powerful Darkseid and his massive, relentless forces invade Earth, a group of previously unaligned super heroes — misunderstood and, in some cases, hunted by the authorities — discover the only way to fend off the attack will be to work together as a cohesive unit. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Flash, Shazam and Cyborg combine their respective talents in an all-out battle to save the planet.

Warner Bros. yet again delivers a very impressive combo pack including Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet copy. The animation in the film is really sharp. I loved the character designs showing our superheros quite younger. The action is also represented well within the Blu-ray transfer. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is also rock solid and packs a real punch. The walls were definitely shaking in some of the epic battle scenes.

The special features are impressive like the film. There is “Deconstructing Justice League: War with Jay Oliva & Jim Lee”, which servers as a part commentary/part documentary going deep into the film. “Creating Heroes: The Life and Art of Jim Lee” is a documentary looking into the work of the great comic artist. “Justice League: War Act D” looks at the film from animatic to pencil tests. There are four episodes taken from the DC Comics Vault including Justice League Unlimited Season 3 “Destroyer”, Batman: The Brave and The Bold Season 2 “The Malicious Mr. Mind”, Young Justice Invasion: Destiny Calling Season 2 Part 1 “Happy New Year” and Season 2 Part 1 “Earthlings”. Lastly there is a sneak peek at “Son of Batman”, the next DC Animated Feature.