“STRING THEORY” AN UNCONVENTIONAL ACOUSTIC MUSICAL DRAMA DEBUTS OFFICIAL TRAILER 

The Independent Short Film Directed By Jonathan Pezza Stars Abraham Benrubi, NBC’s “The Voice” Contestant Paulina Cerrilla, And Newcomer Thien Nguyen

LOS ANGELES, CA – The trailer for the independent short film String Theory, a heartfelt musical drama that follows the interwoven lives of three struggling musicians, has now been made public. The highly anticipated short, written and directed by Jonathan Pezza, starsAbraham Benrubi (U-Turn, ER, Parker Lewis Can’t Lose), Paulina Cerrilla (NBC’s The Voice, Season 3), newcomer Thien Nguyen, Kee Chan(Mission: Impossible II, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith), and Brad Carter (Smashed, Justified).

The film, produced by Paper Windows LLC, is an unconventional “acoustic” musical that follows three singer-songwriters in Los Angeles whose lives collide in a 24-hour period.  Aurora (Paulina Cerilla),  a homeless street musician whose belief in herself carries her through her troubled life, Patsy (Abraham Benrubi) a faded ex-rockstar at a crossroads in his life, and the intensely conflicted Yun (Thien Nguyen), who contends with her father (Kee Chan) over his disapproval of her life choices. All three are strangers, unknowingly connected by their love and need for music. String Theory follows each of their stories, until their lives intersect for a brief moment that changes each in a profound way.

All three actors were drawn to the piece because of the story and its musical aspect. “The script itself is written like a song and I found that to be a really unique and special way to tell the story,” says Abraham Benrubi. At the very core of String Theory lies the music, weaving and guiding the paths of the protagonists to each other and the next step of their lives. Director and writer Jonathan Pezzacomposed the four original songs featured in the film: About Home, Breathe, Ballad of a Falling Star, and the title track String Theory, all of which will be available on iTunes. “I believe that great art comes from challenging yourself to do the things that scare and intimidate you most,” states Pezza. “String Theory is not only a beautiful story about the struggle to define oneself, but the music that the film’s three characters sing and play bears forged and tempered pieces of my experiences.”

The interweaving musical storyline called for a special approach to sound recording as well. Each artist was recorded live on location singing to special click tracks that they heard through earpieces, allowing them to harmonize and perfectly sync with one another, despite being filmed and recorded at different times. “Our approach required lots of rehearsals, however the results are beautiful, honest, and in the moment recordings that heighten the emotion of the piece,” says producer Shaela Cook.

The film was funded through Kickstarter and the generous sponsorships from Imagecraft Productions and HotPixel Inc. Imagecraft providedall the production equipment for the film including: the Sony PMW-F55, lenses, video village monitors, a complete 5 ton grip and electric package, sound and communication equipment, and production support equipment. HotPixel provided DIT services and dailies and will be providing all post production services including color grading and visual effects. President of HotPixel, Art Freed and Jason Been, President of Imagecraft, both serve as Executive Producers on the project. “We chose to be a part of this project not only because of our relationship with Jonathan, but because we believe in fostering independent filmmakers with a unique and creative voice,” stated Jason Been.

For more information and for the latest news on String Theoryvisit www.StringTheoryTheMovie.net, on Twitter @StringTheoryMov or on Facebook.com/StringTheoryTheMovie

About Imagecraft Productions | www.ImagecraftProductions.com   
Imagecraft (IC) is a full service rental house providing crew and production equipment rentals to the film and television industries. We offer personal service, expert advice and maintain a full staff of production managers, crew, and equipment technicians. We strive to be best the rental house in the industry by offering state of the art production equipment, exceptional field crews, and 24/7 production support. For more information on Imagecraft visit ImagecraftProductions.com or call 818.954.0187.  IC can also be found onFacebook.com/ImagecraftTV and Twitter @ImagecraftTV.

Actors: Charlie Hunnam, Idris Elba, Rinko Kikuchi, Charlie Day, Ron Perlman
Directors: Guillermo Del Toro
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 131 minutes

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

“Pacific Rim” is one of the most unique and also riskiest films of the year. When it premiered in theaters it was out-grossed by the piece of shit movie “Grown Ups 2”, which is a sad day for moviegoers. Guillermo Del Toro is one of the best directors in Hollywood and he has such a creative mind. I just wish that America will get smart, stop seeing mindless garbage and actually watch a film that is not a sequel, remake, prequel or whatever else. “Pacific Rim” is easily one of the best films of the year. It is epic, action packed and visually amazing. I haven’t seen visual effects as great as this film since “Avatar”. I have a feeling that this film is going to become quite the classic overtime and I am sure that this franchise is not over just yet since del Toro has some decent pull (see what he has done with the “Hellboy” franchise). If you haven’t seen this yet, I would definitely recommend checking out this film as you will not be sorry.

Official Premise: When legions of monstrous creatures, known as Kaiju, started rising from the sea, a war began that would take millions of lives and consume humanity’s resources for years on end. To combat the giant Kaiju, a special type of weapon was devised: massive robots, called Jaegers, which are controlled simultaneously by two pilots whose minds are locked in a neural bridge. But even the Jaegers are proving nearly defenseless in the face of the relentless Kaiju. On the verge of defeat, the forces defending mankind have no choice but to turn to two unlikely heroes a washed up former pilot (Charlie Hunnam) and an untested trainee (Rinko Kikuchi) who are teamed to drive a legendary but seemingly obsolete Jaeger from the past. Together, they stand as mankind’s last hope against the mounting apocalypse.

When it comes down to it, what guy (or girl for that matter) doesn’t love the idea of giant monsters vs. giant robots? This is a real dream come true, no question. If you love films like “Godzilla”, then will be right up your alley. The cast of the film may not include some of the most recognizable A-list names but the cast is nonetheless quite awesome. Charlie Hunnam, who is know best for his role in “Sons of Anarchy”, steps up and delivers a great leading role. Idris Elba (“Thor”, “Prometheus”) is also quite bad-ass as well. I was a little bit taken back that the funny-man, Charlie Day (“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”), was cast but he was a great asset to the film. Lastly, del Toro reunited with Ron Perlman yet again with him playing Hannibal Chow, the fan-favorite in the film. Perlman has worked with Hunnam before with “Sons of Anarchy” and Frankie Goes Boom”.

Warner Bros delivered one of the best Blu-ray releases of the year, no question. In this combo pack, we get a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet. The 1080p transfer is absolutely stunning. I would personally recommend watching this film in 3D if possible but the 2D version of the film still works so well, just missing the added depth. The film uses a great wealth of digital effects but they are so done so well that the film just looks like it is actually real. When I saw “Oz The Great and Powerful”, I couldn’t help but vomit a little watching it cause it just looked so damn fake. “Pacific Rim” has a perfect blend of practical/CGI effects and amazing looking sets with unbelievable production design. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is absolutely perfect. The scale of the film is so large and it just sounds so amazing. Ramin Djawadi’s score, who is known best for “Game of Thrones”, delivers one of my favorite scores of the year and it sounds amazing on this track.

The special features are absolutely jam-packed and deliver an amazing punch. There is a must-listen audio commentary from Guillermo del Toro, who really shows his love for the film and gives such an in-depth look into the production. There are thirteen “Focus Points”, running just over an hour. The featurettes included: “A Film by Guillermo del Toro”, “A Primer on Kaijus & Jaegers”, “Intricacy of Robot Design”, “Honoring the Kaiju Tradition”, “The Importance of Mass and Scale”, “Shatterdome Ranger Roll Call”, “Jaegers Echo Human Grace”, “Inside the Drift”, “Goth-Tech”, “Mega Sized Sets”, “Baby Kaiju Set Visit”, “Tokyo Alley Set Visit” and “Orchestral Sounds from the Anteverse”. So we get all this and it is only disc one. The rest of the amazing extras are included on the second disc.

Disc two starts off with an amazing interactive look into “The Director’s Notebook” including another six featurettes. There is a great visual effects featurette with “The Digital Artistry of Pacific Rim”. “The Shatterdome” is a great collection of the films art and concept designs. There are four pretty decent deleted/extended scenes: “The Wall of Life/Rations,” “Excuse Me,” “Theft” and “Catch You in the Drift, Dad.”. There is a look into the film’s four sequences in “Drift Space”. Lastly there is a gag reel included lead by the very funny Charlie Day and Ron Perlman. Warner Bros really delivered here with this release and did not cheap out like a few of this summer’s other big box office hits like “Star Trek Into Darkness”. They made this release for the fans of the film and they will be left very satisfied and hopefully held off until we (hopefully) get a sequel in the near future.

Pacific Rim is available on 3D+Blu-ray Combo Pack 10/15/13 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/PacRimWBShop

Actors: Elijah Wood, Nora Arnezeder
Directors: Franck Khalfoun
Rated: Unrated
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 89 minutes

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

William Lustig’s 1980 cult film “Maniac” is a decent film but has never one of my favorites. This remake was written by Alexandre Aja (“The Hills Have Eyes”, “Piranha”), who is know for remaking horror films the way they should be. So that was a eye-raiser for me personally. When I saw that Elijah Wood was taking the lead role, I became even more interested in this film. I loved the vision of the remake and thought it was a huge improvement on the original. It is daring, very intense and quite horrific. Wood is amazingly insane in the film and delivers a hell of a performance. Top that with an amazing score and some impressive visual effects from KNB Effects (“The Walking Dead”) and we got a winner here and a must see for any horror fan.

Official Premise: In this 21st century Jack the Ripper story set in present-day Los Angeles, Frank (Elijah Wood) leads a deceptively peaceful life. To the outside world, he’s a withdrawn and somewhat eccentric owner of a mannequin store. But his quiet façade masks an inner rage that forces him to brutally kill and scalp the women who get too close to him. When a young artist named Anna (Nora Arnezeder) appears one day at Frank’s shop and asks for his help with her new exhibition, Frank develops an obsession with her that threatens to completely destroy his already fragile psyche. Soon the streets become unsafe for any woman after dark as this newly awakened maniac begins to stalk and kill.

There has been some complaints about the film since a lot of it was shot in what I liked to call Elijah Wood-O-Vision, which was his point of view. I thought it was very effective to show the film in that first-person perspective. The 1080p transfer is solid in 2.35:1 aspect ratio while still keeping that gritty 70’s “42nd St & Broadway” feel. The film comes packed with a killer (no pun intended) DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The score has a very 70’s disco/electronic horror feel and it really works well with the film.

Overall IFC delivered an impressive Blu-ray release here. There is a super cool reverse cover art included. The special features are worth checking out for sure if you are a fan of the film. There is an awesome audio commentary track with Elijah Wood, director Franck Khalfoun, and executive producer Alix Taylor, which is quite detailed on the production. There is a super in-depth “Making Of” documentary, which runs over an hour. This includes some great behind-the-scenes look into the production along with cast/crew interviews. There is a Poster Gallery included for the three poster designs. Lastly there is a few short deleted scenes and a trailer included.

Did you know that October is “National Sarcastic Awareness Month”? Really! And no one does sarcasm better than the ladies of The Heat, available now on Digital HD and on Blu-ray and DVD, October 15th.

Since we all know that sarcasm is practically unheard of online, check out some fun and instructional “The Heat” eCards below and let Ashburn and Mullins show you how it’s done. Feel free to share with your friends and family as well 😉

Starring: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi
Directed By: Paul Greengrass
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 2 hours 14 mins
Sony Pictures

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

From the director of “The Bourne Supremacy” and “The Bourne Ulitmatum” and the writer of “Flight Plan” and “The Hunger Games”; Tom Hanks stars as “Captain Phillips,” the true story about an American captain and his crew being hijacked by Somali Pirates off the coast of Africa in 2009.

While carrying supplies and food for poverty stricken villages in Somalia and Kenya, The Maersk Alabama became the first American ship in 200 years to be hijacked by pirates. The story follows Captain Richard Phillips (Tom Hanks) and the pirate captain, Muse (Barkhad Abdi), from the hijacking of the Alabama to the capture of the pirates and escape of captain and crew. We are introduced to the world of the Somali pirates, their planning (or lack there of) and their successful taking over of ships with just a small row boat with a motor. Because the Alabama was a freight carrier with a tall hull, the thinking on board was that there was little to no chance of the ship being hijacked. Which means the crew is less than prepared for the struggles they endure and are rendered helpless when their captain and leader is taken hostage by four pirates in a small covered life boat.

This story was broadcast all over the news in 2009 and captivated much of America at the time. Here we see the story that wasn’t presented on the news; the communication between Phillips and the pirates; the struggle of isolation and not knowing. The film also takes you into the chase by the US Navy and the attempted rescues that take place.

In my opinion the film ran a little too long. If you’re familiar with the story and the outcome before watching the movie you’ll find yourself sitting there for the last 30 mins just waiting for the end. However, if you have no recollection of the incident, as surprisingly some people around me in the theatre weren’t, it is a suspenseful ride throughout. This film is about courage, trust, and determination and you see it at both sides of the spectrum. Tom Hanks is, well, Tom Hanks; you know he is going to deliver in any role he takes on. But it’s the crew of pirates that really make the film and truly build the story. First time actors Barkhad Abdi, Barkhad Abdrahman, Faysal Ambed, and Mahat Ali all deliver performances that are so genuine, intimidating and sometimes frightening, it made me wonder if they were actors or the real deal!

I wouldn’t say this is a must see in the theaters but this film IS a must see. I have no doubts that Hanks, Paul Greengrass and the film itself will be recognized during award season.

Directed by: Randy Moore
Starring: Roy Abramsohn, Elena Schuber, Katelynn Rodriguez, Annet Mahendru, Danielle Safady and Alison Lees-Taylor
Distributed by: Producers Distribution Agency
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Earlier this year a very unique film premiered at 2013 Sundance Film Festival called “Escape from Tomorrow”. The film made headlines immediately since it was filmed in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and Epcot as well as Disneyland completely under the radar without anyone knowing. Everyone believed that Disney would immediately bury the film and let their lawyers loose on the people behind it. Surprising, the film did not disappear into oblivion instead Disney took an similar approach like SeaWorld did with the documentary “Blackfish”, they have just ignored it. Well after watching “Escape from Tomorrow” finally, I wish I would have ignored it as well.

Living in Orlando, FL, I was very curious about “Escape from Tomorrow” especially since I visit Walt Disney World on a weekly basis. I found it fascinating that these people have pulled off filming an entire film without anyone from Disney catching on. The premise for the film does not represent your typical Disney theme either. It follows a middle-aged husband and father that learns that he has lost his job while on vacation in Walt Disney World. While trying to enjoy their last day on vacation, he sets out to the park with his nagging wife (who I wanted to strangle) and snotty kids. He starts to experience very strange visions and encounters, while heading down a path of madness.

The aspect of the film that I did enjoy was that fact that it was shot in black and white, I felt that it added a certain eerie feel. The acting is not very impressive and I wish Roy Abramsohn would have appeared shirtless much less than he did. This had a cool idea and could have had potential but it falls short of delivering anything entertaining. The story has too many holes and doesn’t deliver. I am also not sure if the film was cut heavily since it first premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival because I have seen a 104 minute running time online but the version I saw was only 90 minutes. But honestly, though I do not think I would have been able to watch another 14 minutes added onto this film.

So nearly a year since its debut at Sundance, “Escape from Tomorrow” is now playing in select theaters across the country including the IFC Center in New York. Also like a lot of indie films recently, this is also available to watch VOD via iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Vudu and many other formats. I will leave it to you to decided whether or not to watch this. Even though I didn’t enjoy the film, I would still strangely recommend it since it does have that certain curiosity about it. But when I think about it further, I just think about flat story and the many missed opportunities.

Starring: Danny Trejo, Mel Gibson and introducing Carlos Estevez
Directed by: Robert Rodriguez
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 47 mins
Open Road

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

It’s well known that Machete Cortez don’t text. He also doesn’t tweet. Or smoke. But what he does do, better than anyone, is kick ass. And kill. Again.

While attempting to prevent an illegal sale of government weapons Machete (Trejo) is abducted and brought to the White House for a meeting with President Rathcock (Estevez – better known as the artist formerly known as Charlie Sheen). The president asks Machete to return to Mexico and find out where the weapons and drugs are entering our country. In return for his services Machete will find his criminal record erased and be made a U.S. Citizen. What could go wrong?

As someone that worked in the theatre business in the late 70s and early 80s many of my favorite memories involve working the all night weekend shows. Kung Fu. Horror. Sexploitation. We played them all. Some nights we would have 500 screaming patrons, hiding their eyes at the scary scenes, punching the backs of the seats in front of them during the fights and generally having a great time in the dark. “Machete Kills,” like the original “Machete” (and, for that matter, director Rodriguez’ and Quentin Tarantino’s “Grindhouse” double feature) pay homage to that great period of scratched prints, over the top bloodshed and women with machine-gun brassieres!

The story goes like this: once in Mexico Machete is instructed to visit Marcos Mendez (a hilarious turn by the Oscar-nominated Demian Bichir). Mendez has unfortunately developed a split personality. One moment he’s a strong willed crusader fighting for his people and the next a terrorist who has stolen a nuclear missile and pointed it towards Washington D.C. To ensure his plan won’t fail, he has had the trigger mechanism installed in his heart. If his heart stops, the missile fires. Machete also has to deal with a master-of-disguise hitman named the Chameleon and an industrial tycoon (Gibson, in fine form) with plans to fly his own space shuttle. Along the way there is enough action and blood to please even the most hardcore grindhouse fan.

As always, Rodriguez has peppered his cast with familiar faces, including “Modern Family” star Sofia Vergara as an over protective mother (and the owner of the aforementioned deadly bra), Amber Heard as Machete’s contact, whose cover is to constantly participate in Texas based beauty pageants and the quartet of Cuba Gooding, Jr, Walter Goggins, Lady Gaga and Antonio Banderas (a Rodriguez veteran) as the Chameleon. Also returning are “Machete” veterans Michelle Rodriguez and Tom Savini, whose first onscreen appearance drew cheers from the screening audience. Whether it’s because his Osiris was a memorable character in the first film or because he is one of the greatest make-up artists of all time, I don’t know. But either way it was applause well deserved. As Machete, Trejo is a straight faced, slow-burning time bomb. You can read his life story in the lines on his face.

Speaking of makeup, Greg Nicotero and his staff at KNB again outdo themselves in the gore department. Behind the camera Rodriguez moves the story along smoothly and Kyle Ward’s screenplay, based on a story by director Rodriguez and his brother, Marcel, keep the one liners coming.

If you’re looking for an in-depth, serious film I suggest you go see “Gravity.” But if you’re looking for a fun time in the dark, head to “Machete Kills.” And when it’s over get in line for “Machete Kills Again —In Space!”

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Actors: Dack Rambo, Rebecca Dianna Smith, Pat Hingle
Studio: Warner Archive
DVD Release Date: October 2, 2013
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Run Time: 95 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

If you know horror then you know that the 70’s was filled with tons of revenge thriller probably thanks to Wes Craven’s “The Last House on the Left. “Nightmare Honeymoon” was adapted from the book “Deadly Honeymoon” by crime czar Lawrence Block. The film’s original poster included a classic 70’s quote, “Thank Heavens It’s Only a Movie!” Obviously if you hold it up to the craziness of today’s film it is not as brutal but still quite the shocker. So even though the film hasn’t really held up to time but it is still a decent entry in the genre and worth checking out again after all these years.

Official Premise: Newlyweds David and Jill Webb (Dack Rambo and Rebecca Dianna Smith) want nothing more than to consummate their marriage in New Orleans. But on their way to “The Big Easy,” they witness a murder. And when the sadistic killer (John Beck) realizes he’s been caught in the act, he knocks David unconscious and rapes Jill. Eventually, David learns the story of his wife’s assault, and sets out on a relentless vendetta to find the rapist and his partner and bring them to justice. Also starring Pat Hingle, Nightmare Honeymoon is filled with plot twists, compelling performances, crooked cops and one man’s unstoppable quest to right an unthinkable wrong.

Warner Archive has done this film very well. It has been newly remastered and looks pretty great even though it is only presented on DVD. This film has never been released before on DVD, so another notch in the belt for Warner Archive, who continues to deliver films like this to their fans. Another bonus for this release is that it actually contains two different cuts of the film both which are not rated. There is the “Alternate Theatrical Version” and also the “Alternate TV Version”. I think this is going to be a real draw for fans of this 70’s horror film.

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Starring: Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Owain Yeoman, Amanda Righetti, Tim Kang
Created by Bruno Heller
Studio: Warner Archive
Release Date: November 5, 2013
Run Time: 998 minutes

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

When “The Mentalist” premiered back in 2008, I figured I would give it a chance but it never really took off for me. I think when you watch a cop procedural show, the cast really needs to WOW you. A good cast with likable characters is critical. Take “Castle” for an example, the show has such an amazing cast with such unique chemistry. Simon Baker carries this cast well and has built an impressive career around this character. I never really fell in love with this show but it is still clever and has stood the test of time and recently just began its sixth season on CBS, so somebody likes it.

Official Premise: A mentalist is a master manipulator of thought and behavior. The mentalist is Patrick Jane (Australia’s Simon Baker), a celebrity psychic whose wife and child are viciously murdered by an elusive serial killer called Red John. Devastated, Patrick admits his paranormal act is fake, renounces his earlier life and uses his astonishing skills of observation and analysis – talents that made him appear psychically gifted – to bring killers to justice. Patrick now helps an elite team of detectives break their toughest cases. But no matter how many criminals he catches, Patrick never forgets his central goal: Find Red John. And bring him down.

This hit CBS series’ is being released on Blu-ray for the first time ever, thanks to Warner Archive. Though I wasn’t really particularly blown away with the Blu-ray. I think for fans that have the series on DVD, should be content. The 1080p transfer are decent but nothing to really outstanding. The audio track is a downright letdown with only a Dolby Digital 5.1 track, which is more able on the DVD format. Warner Archive is new to Blu-ray format as of this year and is still working out the kinks I think.

I am impressed that Warner Archive has included some special features since usually that is not the case. But the special features are also nothing to call home about. There is “Evidence of a Hit Series”, which includes interviews with the creators, directors and cast talking about the show. “Cracking the Crystal Ball: Mentalist Vs. Psychic” contains more interviews talking cast/crew as well as real detectives, mentalists and police psychics to dig deeper into the truth behind the show. Lastly there is a gag reel from the first season called “Surveillance Video”.

Starring: Robert Alda, Andrea King, Peter Lorre
Director: Robert Florey
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 88 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“The Beast with Five Fingers” was released Christmas Day 1946, which is an interesting choice to release a horror film on the holiday. This is a film that never loses its class. I saw this film originally over 20 years ago and it still is just as entertaining and thrilling as it was the first time.  Peter Lorre is amazing in the role and really nails the role.  The film has never been been given a proper solo DVD, so thanks to Warner Archive this classic can finally get some well-deserved attention.  I would have loved to see them take the Blu-ray route with this title but it is still get to see this film available today.

Official Premise: Film icon Peter Lorre turns in yet another memorable performance in this eerie classic set in a small town in Italy. Hilary Cummins (Lorre), the devoted secretary to wheelchair-bound piano virtuoso Francis Ingram (Victor Francen), has a passion for the occult. Poring through every book on the supernatural he can find in Ingram’s vast library, Hilary begins to imagine strange and terrifying things. But after Ingram’s tragic death, the line between reality and unimaginable terror is blurred as the severed hand from Ingram’s corpse begins killing everyone in the villa! Also starring Robert Alda and Andrea King, The Beast with Five Fingers is filled with wit, thrills and shocking plot twists!

The film is over 65 years old, so the transfer may not look stunning but it definitely looks damn good. The film has been newly remastered and it definitely holds up and is quite sharp.  It is presented in full frame with an aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio track includes is a Dolby Digital track, which works with the eerie score and dialogue very well. There are no special features included additionally. The DVD is currently only available using Warner Archives’ Made-To-Order DVD service aka MOD. So if you are a fan of this film head over to WBShop.com and pick it up before it goes out of print.

Starring: Peter Weller, Michael Emerson, Gary Anthony Williams, David Selby, Ariel Winter, Mark Valley
Director: Jay Oliva
Number of discs: 3
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 156 minutes

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

When I saw that Warner Bros was releasing “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns” with Part 1 & 2 complete together, I thought it was a bit of a double dip but I have to let everyone know that it is not at all. This deluxe edition releases takes the two parts and puts them into one seamless cut, which runs nearly two hour and thirty minute. I will repeat that a two hour and thirty minute Batman movie, I mean HELLO NERD ALERT!! I thought the first part was great but the second part was better but having them together just makes the entire film work so much tighter. Easily this is the most bold and risky DCU animated movie yet and it only gets better with easy viewing. Highly recommended picking up this release for any Batman fan.

Official Premise: It is ten years after an aging Batman has retired, and Gotham City has sunk deeper into decadence and lawlessness. Now, when his city needs him most, the Dark Knight returns in a blaze of glory. Joined by Carrie Kelly, a teenage female Robin, Batman takes to the streets to end the threat of the mutant gangs that have overrun the city. And after facing off against his two greatest enemies, the Joker and Two-Face, for the final time, Batman finds himself in mortal combat with his former ally, Superman, in a battle that only one of them will survive.

If this brand new seamless cut wasn’t enough Warner Bros delivered this combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy + UltraViolet and packed it with some amazing new extras. The 1080p looks stunning (like the solo releases) and works perfectly with the mix of hand-drawn animation and CG effected for the film. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works perfectly with the action as it explodes off the screen and kicks you in the face. It also complements Christopher Drake’s score very well.

So along with all the special features from the previously released part one and two Blu-ray’s, this deluxe edition continues to prove why it is worth the additional purchase. There is a fantastic new audio commentary track with director Jay Oliva, writer Bob Goodman and voice director Andrea Romano. The track is a blast and packs a ton of great information. This is especially cool since part one and part two didn’t include an audio commentary previously. There is also a fantastic new documentary called “Masterpiece: Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns”, which narrated by actor Malcolm McDowell. It included tons of great interviews with Miller himself and covers the story from the comic to the film and everything in between. Must see for any fan!

I thought the special features on part one are good but not stunning but put them together with the new extras and part two and it all comes together so well. Part one included. “Her Name is Carrie… Her Role is Robin” is a look at the role of a female Robin. “Batman and Me: A Devotion to Destiny, The Bob Kane Story” is a 2008 documentary that looks into the life of Batman creator. “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 Sneak Peek” is a behind the scenes look into the second part. ”The Dark Knight Returns” Digital Comic is a very short 4-page preview of Miller’s Batman epic novel, I would have loved to see the complete comic converted. Lastly there are two classic episodes of “Batman: The Animated Series Episodes”, ”Two-Face, Parts 1 & 2″, though not in HD.

The special features are more impressive than “Part 1″ release. First up, we have “From Sketch to Screen: Exploring the Adaptation Process” is a behind-the-scenes documentary which looks into the extensive work that has went into converting this comic to a movie. ”Superman vs. Batman: When Heroes Collide” is a look into who would win this epic battle. “The Joker: Laughing in the Face of Death” is a look into the twisted villians role in this final chapter. “Additional Episodes: From the DC Comics Vault” is collection of classic episodes including “The Last Laugh” and “The Man Who Killed Batman” from Batman: The Animated Series and “Battle of the Superheroes!” from Batman: The Brave and the Bold. Lastly there is an extended preview of the DCU animated movie, ”Superman Unbound”.

Actors: Jaden Smith, David Denman, Will Smith, Sophie Okonedo, Zoë Kravitz
Directors: M. Night Shyamalan
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 100 minutes

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

Poor M. Night Shyamalan. This guy really has targets on his head in Hollywood…though it is actually not 100% unwarranted. The guys has had a few great films with “The Sixth Sense” and “Signs”. But his recent films like “Lady in the Water” and “The Last Airbender” were downright terrible. When his name is attached to a project people are at a point where they don’t even give it a chance. I remember when I saw a trailer for “Devil”, which he produced and they showed his name after a pretty promising trailer and a few different people in the audience screaming “NOOO”. That is how I felt when I saw the trailer for “After Earth” for the first time.

“After Earth” is a very interesting film, at least from the trailer. It packs a great father and son duo, Will and Jaden Smith. It packs some impressive visuals but overall in terms of story it is not very focused and loses your attention pretty quickly. Even though I haven’t been a fan of Shyamalan’s films, I came into this one with a relatively open mind and just focuses on the Smith’s and I enjoyed the film but I know that it is what I call a “one-timer” and will not be running around recommended this. Sci-Fi junkies will enjoy but other than that will not reach others.

Official Premise: A crash landing leaves teenager Kitai Raige (Jaden Smith) and his legendary father Cypher (Will Smith) stranded on Earth, 1,000 years after cataclysmic events forced humanity’s escape. With Cypher critically injured, Kitai must embark on a perilous journey to signal for help, facing uncharted terrain, evolved animal species that now rule the planet, and an unstoppable alien creature that escaped during the crash. Father and son must learn to work together and trust one another, if they want any chance of returning home.

In terms of Blu-ray delivery and despite how great the film is, Sony really delivered an AMAZING Blu-ray presentation. It is being released as a two disc combo pack with a Blu-ray / DVD + UltraViolet Digital Copy. For this release “After Earth” has been mastered in 4K with “Maximum Picture and Expanded Color” and the 1080p transfer looks stunning. I was surprised that along with the 4K video that they didn’t opt for a 7.1 track but the included DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track really nails the action well and sounds pretty awesome as well.

In terms of special features, I have to admit I felt a bit let down as well. I would have loved to have had a commentary track included. “A Father’s Legacy” talks about the father/son relationship between Will and Jaden in and out of the film. “Building a World” is a short look into creating the setting for this film’s future. There are a bunch of scenes with omputer animation pre-visualizations in “Pre-Visualizing the Future”. “The Animatics of After Earth” focuses on the animatics used in the film. “1000 Years in 300 Seconds” is a super fast behind-the-scene look into the production. “The Nature of the Future” is a location based feature looking at Costa Rica, California, and Utah where the film was shot. Lastly “XPrize After Earth Challenge” is a short chat on how to save the planet.

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Actors: Zachary Quinto, James Cromwell, Evan Peters, Jessica Lange, Lily Rabe, Sarah Paulson, Frances Conroy
Directors: Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, Bradley Buecker, Craig Zisk, David Semel, Jeremy Podeswa
Number of discs: 3
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: October 8, 2013
Run Time: 572 minutes

Season: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

After the first season of “American Horror Story”, it became one of my favorite shows on television. I was blown away with what they did after the first season and was dying to see what they had planned next. “American Horror Story: Asylum” started off decent but lost focus very quickly. The various plots ranged from focusing on the madness of the asylum to aliens, serial killers and even Nazi’s. Quite frankly it was a little too much.  The first season focused on ghosts and it worked so well and even the third season is just focusing on witches. I think they wanted to deliver a bigger show and it got lost in its ambition.

Official Premise: Step inside a madhouse of horror and experience the chilling new incarnation of TV’s most daringly provocative series. The sins of the past haunt the present at the notorious Briarcliff home for the criminally insane, ruled with an iron fist by Sister Jude. Forbidden desire and terrifying evil lurk around every corner…from alien abduction to demonic possession to a skin-wearing psychopath known as Bloody Face.

Despite the season being amazing or not, the show does pack a stellar cast including Jessica Lange, Zachary Quinto, James Cromwell, Evan Peters, Jessica Lange, Lily Rabe, Sarah Paulson and Frances Conroy.  Ensemble is really want this group of actors really are. They all come together and makes this show working watching just for them.  I still have a lot of faith in this show since I think they are going to bounce back with the third season. I just felt that they tried to focus on too many themes that this season didn’t get a chance to deliver one solid story, instead a few decent but not amazing ones.

In terms of the release itself, like the first season, Fox delivered an impressive release, even though I would have loved to see an Ultraviolet digital copy included. This is becoming a trend now with TV shows that are being released on Blu-ray and I think that Fox should get on that bandwagon as well. The 1080p transfers are sharp and work very well with the creepy off-centered look for this season.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 comes together as well and packs a nice punch.

In terms of special features, like the season I was left wanting much more. There are a few brief deleted scenes spread out over disc two and three. There is a short interview featuring an orderly talking about Bloody case called “The Orderly”. “What Is American Horror Story: Asylum?” is a 20-minute behind-the-scene look on the season with interviews. “Welcome to Briarcliff Manor” dives into what it took to make the asylum. Lastly “The Creatures” talks about the season’s make-up and prosthetics effects.

Starring: Kevin Hart, Harry Ratchford, Will ‘Spank’ Horton, Joey Wells
Directed by: Leslie Small, Tim Story
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Summit/Lionsgate
DVD Release Date: October 15, 2013
Running Time: 75 minutes

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

Kevin Hart is easily one of the funniest comedians in the business today. I am a big fan of his TV show on BET called “Real Husbands of Hollywood” and his roles in films like “Think Like A Man” are great. He also is co-starring in this Fall’s “Grudge Match” with Sylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro, which looks amazing. He only seems to be getting more popular each year and I can’t wait to see what he does next. This film came after Hart scored a major hit grossing over $15 million from his first theatrical comedy show “Laugh At My Pain”, which also became one of the year’s top-selling comedy tours. I feel like he is bringing back the stand-up comedy films again since there was a recent drought.

When you watch “Let Me Explain”, I couldn’t help but compare to “Eddie Murphy: Raw”. Hart has that same kind of energy and really commands the audience with his presence. This show was filmed live in New York City at two sold-out performances at Madison Square Garden and it focuses on Hart’s unique view on the world. If you enjoy his comedy, then you will be holding your stomach in pain and probably shedding a few tears from laughing so hard. I am not a huge stand-up comedy fan but I couldn’t I literally almost fell off the couch with this one.

Summit delivered a nice combo pack for this release including Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The 1080p transfer is impressive and works for what is needed to cover this stage show. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works well with Hart’s jokes and sounds good. In terms of special features there are only two featurettes including “No, No, No, Let US Explain” and “Backstage Pass”. There are also three music videos including Let Me Explain Theme Song video “The Narcissist” featuring American Antagon1st and another with Snoop Dogg, Method Man, Erick Sermon and RL and “Pop Off” music videoby Doeshun featuring Ray Ray & Ruck.