Actors: Sharon Stone, Billy Zane
Directors: Gabriela Tagliavini
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 96 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

I am not going to lie right off the bat, Sharon Stone and Billy Zane…count me in.  I know they are not A-list big draws but they are enough to get me interested.  “Border Run” is inspired by true events and focuses on current issues that we are dealing with today.  The film is being pitched as a gritty drama but it really falls more into the thriller department.  It has takes a little while to get its feet off the ground but it is overall entertaining and gripping, along with some decent twists. Stone gives a great performance, a nice change of role for her. I would say that this is a least worth a rent to check out.

Official Premise: Sharon Stone stars as Phoenix television reporter Sofie Talbert, a hard-nosed right-wing journalist who exposes liberal politicians soft on illegal immigration. But when her relief-worker brother (Zane) goes missing in Mexico, Sofie’s own south-of-the-border investigation traps her in a deadly underworld of migrants, smugglers and cold-blooded murder. Here, nothing is what is seems. Nobody should be trusted. And when one woman crosses the line, there can be no turning back.

Anchor Bay delivers a decent 1080p transfer within its 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The image is clear and very sharp.  The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio surround track works very well with the suspense and adds to the film’s drama. Overall impressive audio and video for a low-budget title.  Alas, there is zero special features included which is a bit disappointing.  Since this film is based on true events, I could see that there would be room for some featurettes and commentary tracks.  I feel that this is a little big lazy and would have given this a bit more weight behind the film itself.

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Dolph Lundgren has always been one of my favorite action stars. Whether he is kicking ass as Drago in “Rocky IV”, Andrew Scott in “Universal Soldier” series or most recently as Gunner Jensen in “The Expendables” series – where he goes the action follows.  His latest film is called “The Package”, which puts him head-to-head with wrestling legend Steve Austin.  Media Mikes had a chance to chat with him about this film as well as his upcoming TV series “Rescue 3” and plans for “The Expendables 3”.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us about about how you got involved with “The Package”?
Dolph Lundgren: As usual you read the script and then talk with the director. I liked the script because the character they thought about for me was interesting. He was a little more colorful, kind of crazy and unpredictable.

MG: What is your technique for getting into a character like The German?
DL: A lot of it if you good script is usually done for you. They have explained in the script already that what he looks like, in this case, the fact that he is dying from a disease and is becoming desperate but at the same time he is becoming educated and has a way with words. So you just work with the material and put that into the different scenes. By working on the scenes then you come up with ideas like make-up and clothing ideas. When you are on the set also a lot of it comes from working with the other actors and the director while shooting. The more colorful the character is the better described he would be in the script and that would make it easier for an actor to fall into that role.

MG: How was it going head-to-head with Steve Austin?
DL: It is always fun to work with other actors who can fight. I have done it a few times now with Jean-Claude Van Damme, (Slyvester) Stallone and Randy Couture. So with Steve Austin it is the same. He is a guy that doesn’t need a stunt double. You get to do more on the film with the actual performer, so it is fun and also it looks better in the film.

MG: What do you enjoy most about being an action hero and how has that role evolved for you over the years?
DL: I think it stayed the same for quite a long time. “Rocky IV” was my first big movie. I didn’t really plan to be an action hero, I just wanted to learn about acting. I was doing some modeling also at the time and before that I was an athlete and studying engineering. So this kind of came out of left field. So after “Rocky IV”, I think it stayed the same for like 20 years. I also lived in Spain for about 10 years to bring up my kids away from Hollywood. I got divorced a few years back, so when I came back here in 2009, I got right back into the role and did “The Expendables” and then “The Expendables 2”. Now I am trying to find roles that are a little more interesting and fun to show different sides of myself. Let’s see how that goes. I am doing a action series now for television. It is more about rescuing people than killing then [laughs], so that would be new for me.

MG: What can you tell us about that show?
DL:  Sure, It is called “Rescue 3”. It is based on this elite multi-agency task force in California which saves people. I play get to play the leader of this unit. What is interesting is that you’ve got 20 episodes to develop the character instead of 90 minutes. It is going to be fun to see what kind of things I can pull out of that and how the audience will react to it. Also one of the producers is from “Baywatch”. I am not sure how much running on the beach I will do…but we will see…hopefully not too much [laughs].

MG: Playing such iconic character like Drago in “Rocky IV”, Andrew Scott in “Universal Soldier” series and now Gunner Jensen in “The Expendables”, what has been your most memorable role in your career?
DL: I always remember “Rocky IV” since it was my first film. It has a lot of memories attached to it. The same with “The Expendables” since it has such a great cast, its special. I am back with Stallone again. I think those are the two that really jump out and have been a big milestone in my career. Then I have done some small roles recently like “The Package” have been a lot of fun.

MG: Also last year you did a film called “One in the Chamber” that I enjoyed as well.
DL: Yeah, thank you! That is another one that I kind of took out the turns a little bit. I did another project that is a similar smaller part last year called “Rush” with Randy Couture. Now that I have this TV series coming up, I am trying to play more roles that are I would say are a little more “normal” and close to myself. Since that is what I am doing in the series, so I am trying to get used to that a little more.

MG: Speaking of playing different roles, I loved your character recently also in “Small Apartments”. You got to do more comedy because you were a riot.
DL: Thanks man! I actually have this reality series coming out this June called “Race to the Scene”. The show is based on actual movie locations and memorable movie scenes. It is going to air on Reelz. It is very comedic for me and is like one big skit. So we will see how that works out also.

MG: Any update on your next directorial effort “Skin Trade”?
DL: Yes, I am still working on that. It is something I wrote a few years back with a friend of mine. I am trying to work it into the schedule. This year is very busy with the series and then possibly another “The Expendables”. I am trying to find the right co-star. I wanted to direct it, so I wrote it to play the co-lead. But the lead, the main character I want to cast somebody. So that is the guy that I am looking for. I am sure it will work itself out soon and we will find somebody.

MG: You mentioned “The Expendables 3”, can you shed any light on it?
DL: Nobody has approached me but I have just heard little things like they were working on a script and aiming to shoot in the Fall. But I do not know any particulars right now. I think within two months or so it should be all settled since they have to prep by June the latest if they are looking to start shooting in September.

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Actors: Alex Lucchesi, Guglielmo Favilla, Claudio Marmugi
Directors: Marco Ristori, Luna Boni
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Entertainment One
DVD Release Date: March 5, 2013
Run Time: 95 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

When I read the words “Italian zombie flick”, I was interested in “Eaters”.  I have a big respect for classic Lucio Fulci and Ruggero Deodato films. This film is presented by Uwe Boll (“House of the Dead”, “Bloodrayne”), so I started with a little extra respect for it since I enjoy his work quite a bit. This film features some solid gore and zombie effects for a low-budget horror flick. The film also features a decent soundtrack by Steve Sylvester, founder of black metal band Death SS. May not be the best zombie flick but it is worth checking out if you are looking for some gore and walking dead fun.

Official Synopsis: After the devastation of the Great Epidemic, the world is overrun by hordes of living dead. Two zombie hunters and a scientist set out to find the cause of the obliteration of the human race and a cure for the epidemic, all while trying to stay alive amidst the growing number of ferocious zombies, including neo-Nazis and the daughter of the feared plague-spreader.

Since this film is an Italian zombie film, the film is available to watch in 5.1 Italian Dolby Digital. That would be the way to watch this film if you don’t might subtitles. The other option would be the horribly dubbed, stress horrible, English 2.0 Dolby Digital track.  It is good for a laugh since it is so terrible (have I mentioned that aspect yet?) The only special feature included on the DVD is a behind-the-scenes making of featurette.  Decent extra but runs too short. That is all she wrote in terms of bonus features.  No trailer or commentary tracks included.

Actors: Tim Curry, Claudia Black, Tara Strong, Ron Glass, Cree Summer
Directors: GB Hajim, Shelley Doty
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Wolfe Video
Release Date: March 19, 2013
Run Time: 98 minutes

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

What the fuck? No really. What the fuck? I must have said that at least twenty times while watching this crazy, visual trip of a film.  This bizarre sci-fi lesbian rock musical animated film is like nothing I have ever seen before. Through the rich and very colorful CG rendered animation, this film tells the story of transformative power of love between two women in a world of space pirates, indentured slaves and genetic mutations. The film feels like a really messed up dream or a hallucination. If you are tripping on acid, this might be the film to watch while you are doing so. It is not for everyday viewing but I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen and will be tuning in again for repeat viewings (and no I was not under the influence).

The voice cast for this film is unbelieveable including Tim Curry (The Rocky Horror Picture Show), Claudia Black (TV’s “Stargate SG-1,” “90210”), Ron Glass (TV’s “Firefly,” “Barney Miller”), Juliet Landau (TV’s “Green Lantern: The Animated Series”), Tara Strong (TV’s “Ultimate Spider-Man,” “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic”), George Takei (“Star Trek” franchise), Cree Summer (TV’s “The Spectacular Spider-Man,” “A Different World”), Claudia Christian (TV’s “Babylon 5”) and Dawnn Lewis (TV’s “Futurama,” “A Different World”). There is also a voice cameos from impressive talent like Alan Tudyk (“Firefly”, “Wreck-It Ralph”) and Michael Dorn (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”).  I mean for a film that I have never heard of, they sure didn’t skimp on getting talent to be apart of this project.

Official Premise: Set at the end of the 28th century, the human race has long since abandoned a desolate earth. In order to survive, humanity has been using genetic engineering to adapt to otherworld environments, to the point where changing one’s skin color or gender has become commonplace. On the moon Ganymede, saxophonist Parker (Claudia Black) and guitarist Naia (Tara Strong) develop a close relationship. The two embark on their new relationship and form a new band — but they also must fight for their freedom from the evil Mig (Tim Curry).

The main aspect that I was very disappointed about this release is that it is only on DVD.  This film would have honestly looked and sounded 100% better on Blu-ray or even converted to 3D Blu-ray.  Now that would have been a trip. I hope that they are considering this somewhere down the line after this DVD is release because I would be very interested to see that. The special features includes two behind-the-scenes featurettes: “Claudia Black: On Strange Frame, Sex Scenes and Sci-Fi” and “In the Studio with Claudia Black, Tara Strong, Ron Glass, Cree Summer, Juliet Landau, Michael Dorn and George Takei”, as well as a deleted scene.  If you enjoyed this film then you should definitely check out these extras.

Actors: Dolph Lundgren, George Segal, Kristian Alfonso, Geoffrey Lewis, Beau Starr
Directors: Vic Armstrong
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

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

I am a big fan of Dolph Lundgren but I have to say that “Joshua Tree” was not really on my radar prior to this Blu-ray release. The film is also known by “Army of One”. Nonetheless, who doesn’t love Dolph Lundgren kicking ass and taking names. This film is really action packed, great stunts and fights and even though it screams 90’s action, it is very fun and worth checking out for sure. Shout! Factory is behind this release and did a great job with this Blu-ray release.

Official Premise: It’s high-caliber action from start to finish when exotic car runner Wellman Santee (Dolph Lundgren The Expendables) goes gunning for his money and running for his life after his partner is killed during a botched heist. Sensational stunts and spectacular special effects push the action into overdrive as he captures a beautiful hostage (Kristian Alfonso) and takes off across the desert in a high-speed chase. Six thousand square miles of sand and dozens of turbo-charged super cars set the stage for a bloody, bullet-riddled showdown with a ruthless killer.

Shout Factory has delivered an impressive Bluray release for this obscure film. Firstly it comes with a nice widescreen presentation and an aspect ratio of 2.35:1, which is a real improvement over last full screen DVD release from 1999, under the title “Army of One”. The colors are a little flat but the action looks nice. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is impressive, especially with the non-stop action, fighting and explosions.

The special features are worth checking out if you are a fan of the film. There is an audio commentary track with Director Vic Armstrong and Producer Andy Armstrong. It is a nice balanced track which covers a lot of ground for the production. “A Look Back at The Joshua Tree” is a newly product feature with cast and crew chatting some fun behind-the-scene stories. Lastly there is an alternate ending included and a trailer rounding out the extras.

Actors: Jackie Chan, Kent Cheng, Danny Aiello
Directors: Kirk Woong, James Glickenhaus
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: January 15, 2013
Run Time: 198 minutes

Double Feature: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love classic Jackie Chan? This double feature includes two films: “Crime Story” and “The Protector”. It is great to see Chan fly around without wires or CG effects. The US cut of “The Protector” is good but has never been my favorite of mine or Jackie Chan’s either hence his created his own personal cut with more action and less nudity. Luckily this edition is included in the special features. You can tell that Shout! but some love into this release and they are a real step up from Echo Bridge’s four-pack of Jackie Chan’s features on Blu-ray. If you are a fan of Jackie Chan, then you are going to want to check this out.  Looking for more? Shout! Factory is releasing another Jackie Chan Double Feature “Police Story / Police Story II” this April.

“Crime Story” Official Premise: Jackie Chan stars in one of his grittiest roles ever as a police detective on the edge, who must race against time to solve a deadly kidnapping case. Based on the shocking true story of a billionaire abducted in a bold ambush, and filled with explosive martial-arts battles, Crime Story pulses with tension and excitement. Director Kirk Wong (The Big Hit) deftly combines acrobatic fight choreography with edge-of-your-seat action for this thrilling and dramatic tour-de-force for Jackie Chan.

“The Protector” Official Premise: Written and directed by James Glickenhaus (The Exterminator), The Protector stars Jackie Chan and Danny Aiello (Do the Right Thing) as a pair of NYPD cops sent to Hong Kong to catch a drug lord who has kidnapped the daughter of his former associate. Also starring martial-arts star Moon Lee (Angel Force) and Roy Chiao (Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom), this thriller features Hollywood-style action sprinkled with Chan’s death-defying stunts.

Shout! Factory has delivered decent but not amazing 1080p transfers here, both presented in their original aspect ratios of 1.85:1.  When I think about classic Jackie Chan action films, I think about the gritty feel though so they work for me to be honest.  They are not perfect but then again neither or the films themselves. The audio tracks on the other hand are much more solid.  “Crime Story” comes with both a Cantonese and English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. Obviously the original Cantonese works the best personally.  Then there is also a Cantonese and English Dolby Digital 2.0. “The Protector” comes with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English Dolby Digital 2.0.

The special features for “Crime Story” are good but not great. There is an interview with the director Kirk Wong in Cantonese, with optional English subtitles. There are a few deleted scenes also in Cantonese, with optional English subtitles. Lastly there is the original un-subtitled trailer and a US trailer. “The Protector” really delivers the best features on this release. “The Protector: Alternate Cut” is Jackie Chan’s personal cut of the film and is in Cantonese, with optional English subtitles but only in standard definition. “From New York to Hong Kong” is an interview with director James Glickenhaus talking about working with Jackie Chan. “Locations: Then and Now” is a shot featurette showing the shooting location, not narrated and can be skipped. “Behind the Scenes Featurette” is raw shooting footage in Cantonese and not subtitled. Lastly there is the Hong Kong and US trailer included.

Actors: Rocky Duvall, Chad Allen, Roxanna Augesen, Diane Franklin, Mary Woronov, Gerrit Graham
Directors: Ted Nicolaou, Robert Scott
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Scream Factory
Release Date: February 19, 2013
Run Time: 171 minutes

Double Feature: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

This is my first go at reviewing a title from Scream Factory, a division of Shout! Factory.  I grew up as a kid watching both “TerrorVision” and “The Video Dead” and have been fans.  Are they the best thing to ever come out of the 80’s? Probably not but they are fun as well and thanks to Scream Factory, they are on Blu-ray for the first time. Since they are more of an obscure titles, they probably wouldn’t be able to hold their own on individual Blu-ray. These films are plain and simple campy fun and this double feature should be a guilty pleasure for all horror fans.

“TerrorVision” is a very silly movie but it has really delivered a nice cult audience over the years. It is directed by Ted Nicolaou, who is known for his work with the “Supspecies” franchise also. It is co-produced and written by Full Moon’s Charles Band and composed by his brother Richard Band, who are both legends in the horror genre. The film also packs some decent creature effects for a low-budget indie. “The Video Dead” has become another fan favorite in the horror genre and even inspired a hardcore punk band of the same name. It features some solid zombie effects, not “Walking Dead” quality but still decent for 1987.

“TerrorVision” Official Premise: Life will never be the same for the Putterman family in Terrorvision. Stanley Putterman (Gerrit Graham) installs a state-of-the-art satellite dish in his backyard. Through a cosmic accident, a wayward monster’s energy is beamed across galaxies, into the satellite and onto the Puttermans’ television set. The Puttermans don’t notice any changes, only better reception and a strange monster continually appearing on the screen. But when the monster leaps off the screen and into the Puttermans’ living room, terror erupts, as it needs to feed on humans for its survival! Uh Oh!

“The Video Dead” Official Premise: On a quiet, tree-lined street, evil has arrived in a most ordinary way, an old television set. It receives a single channel, one that not only shows the same film over and over a horror film where zombies rise from the grave to kill but also frees the gnarled, evil monsters….and once out, they’re not going back! They like the real world. They’ve already killed five people and want more blood…and a new family is moving into the neighborhood!

I have only ever seen both of these films on VHS (what’s that right?) and television, so the quality of “TerrorVision” on Blu-ray is stunning compared obviously. It is not a perfect transfer and the film itself looks its age, which is almost 30 years old. But Scream Factory’s 1080p transfer is still a pleasure to view and fans of the film should enjoy it. The film also packs a solid DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. This works well with creature action and dialogue, which are both well-balanced.

“The Video Dead” also packs a decent high definition transfer. There is some noticeable grain for the film itself but it is acceptable and still impressive.  In fact, the 1080p transfer on “The Video Dead” is a notch better than “Terrorvision” although the can’t be said for its audio tracks.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is a bit spotty especially with the dialogue. Luckily thought I think Scream Factory knew this, which is why they also included an DTS-HD MA 2.0 track, which sounds a little more like the film should sound. Fans will most likely prefer this track.

“TerrorVision” runs a little light in the special features department but what it does has works very well.  There is an audio commentary track with Writer/Director Ted Nicolaou and Stars Diane Franklin & Jon Gries. It is very entertainingm, informative and fans should eat it up. “Monster on Demand — The Making of TerrorVision” is an awesome all-new retrospective look into the production. This features tons of great talent including Writer/Director Ted Nicolaou, Stars Diane Franklin, Mary Woronov, Jon Gries, Ian Patrick Williams, Special Make-Up Effects Designer Jon Carl Buechler, Executive Producer Charles Band, Composer Richard Band and others!. If you are a fan of this film this is worth the purchase alone. Lastly there is a Poster & Still Gallery including.

“The Video Dead” comes with some more content but focuses more on commentary on documentaries. The first audio commentary comes from Writer/Producer/Director Robert Scott, Editor Bob Sarles, and Makeup Effects Creator Dale Hall, Jr. Decent track but not amazing.  The second is an commentary track from stars Roxanne Augesen and Rocky Duvall with moderator Chris MacGibbon, Production Manager Jacues Thelemaque, Makeup Effects Creator Dale Hall, Jr. and Makeup Assistant Patrick Denver.  Much better than the first and more interesting. “Pre-Recordead” is an interview with Makeup Effects Creator Dale Hale, Jr. and Makeup Assistant Patrick Denver. Lastly there are some Outtakes, a Behind the Scenes & Poster Still Gallery and wrapping it up with a trailer.

Creators: Jeff “Swampy” Marsh & Dan Povenmire
Actors: Vincent Martella, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Dan Povenmire, Ashley Tisdale, Alyson Stoner
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 168 minutes

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

I remember when I first started watching “Phineas & Ferb” and it hadn’t caught one yet with audience. But now it is just amazing how much “Phineas & Ferb” has blown up for Disney. Perry the Platypus has become a high-profile brand name and the fan-favorite of the show. One thing I noticed in these episodes is that Vincent Martella, voice of Phineas, voice is definitely changing as he sound quite different. Dan Povenmire really steals the show as usual as the voice of Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz. He is one of the best and funniest characters that Disney has ever branded. He is funny and his antics never get old. This DVD contains 12 very funny episodes dealing with Perry and the Animal Agents of the O.W.C.A. (Organization Without A Cool Acronym). If you are a fan of this show, do not miss the chance to own this fantastic release.

The episodes including are: “Journey to the Center of Candace”, “Traffic Cam Caper”, “Bowl-R-Rama Drama”, “Vanessasary Roughness”, “Isabella and the Temple of Sap”, “Cheer Up Candace”, “Robot Rodeo”, “Lotsa Latkes”, “Agent Doof”, “Where’s Perry Part 1”, “Where’s Perry Part 2” and “What’d I Miss”. They are a great collection of episodes showcasing Perry and his band of animal agents. The two part episode “Where’s Perry” could have been released as a DVD set of its own. But Disney delivered not only those too great episodes but many more greats.

Official Synopsis: Join Perry the Platypus – a.k.a. Agent P – and his fellow operatives as they team up to thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz and his dastardly “Inators.” Be they furry or feathered, scaly or slimy, these fearless agents roll over for nobody when it comes to crushing evil in the Tri-State Area and beyond. Fully loaded with over two hours of animated animal-themed adventures, including the exciting, two-part “Phineas And Ferb” cliffhanger “Where’s Perry?”, “Phineas and Ferb: Animal Agents” is a fun-filled, action-packed laughfest that will drive audiences wild!
“Phineas and Ferb: Animal Agents” includes a cool activity spy kit complete with a set of paper binoculars, trading cards and O.W.C.A. I.D. Badge.

The special features included are a collection of “Take Two with Phineas and Ferb” shorts, which features the duo with cameos from real-life celebrities. That is all the actual bonus footage but there is a bunch of extra cool stuff included. There is a foldable spy kit with binoculars included inside. But that is not all, Disney took the time to take it one step further. If you check out the cover inside art, it includes a game to use the binoculars for. This is very clever and a nice way to use an otherwise back side of the cover art. Congrats Disney delivering not only a great disc but also a nice goodies.

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As They Burn
“Will, Love, Life”
Victory Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Will, Love, Life” is the debut Victory Records release from French metal band As They Burn. The group’s line up consists of vocalist Kevin Trevor, Hoby Arinoky- guitar, Fabio Meschini- guitar, Ronald Pastor- bass, Milton Bakech- drums and Bastien Jacquesson on machines. Together the group brings their own unique blend of modern nu-metal spread across 11 all new tracks mixed by Jason Suecof (All That Remains, Trivium, Motionless in White).

If Slipknot was to come out today minus the masks and crazy samples you would have As They Burn. The band’s music is brutally aggressive and features intricate melodic undertones that provide a solid structure for the songs to take shape around. Tracks such “Isis” and “When Everything Falls Apart” jump right out of your speakers almost severing your eardrums with their sheer power while tracks such as Vision Part 2” and “Frozen“Z(h)ero” feature more laid back arrangements that while melodic in approach still have the power to jump up and bite you at any moment. Vocalist Kevin Trevor covers a lot of ground as he is able to take his voice from a stomach churning growl to an eerie drone while the rest of the band is equally technical. When you think of Paris, France you may not think of heavy music however As They Burn sets the record straight with their approach to the ever growing genre.

Track Listing:
1.) Medicine 2.0
2.) Origin
3.) Dream Collapse
4.) The Conscious Man
5.) Isis
6.) Frozen Vision Part 1
7.) Frozen Vision Part 2
8.) When Everything Falls Apart
9.) Z(h)ero
10.) F.R.E.A.K.S.
11.) Sons of Shiva

Starring: Frank Welker, Matthew Lillard, Grey DeLisle, Mindy Cohn
Directed By: Michael Goguen
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 78 minutes

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

When it comes to “Scooby Doo”, I don’t know what it is but I always enjoy them.  Every since I was a kid and I was watching the classic series and these character have power over me.  This latest original movie “Mask of the Blue Falcon” is a real blast.  It is funny, action packed and features classic characters like Herculoids and Space Ghost and obviously Blue Falcon. Warner Premiere has been releasing new animated feature films at least two per year.  Next up is “Scooby-Doo and the Maniacal Mecha Mutt”, as well as “Scooby-Doo and the Scarecrow”.  Warner is a real pusher of this franchise and I do not see it slowing down anytime soon.  Keep them coming, I can’t wait to introduce my daughter to these films. If you are a Scooby fan or a comic book fan then this release is really for you.

Official Premise: The Mega Mondo Pop Cartoon-a-Con in sunny California marks the spot for mystery in this all-new original Scooby-Doo adventure! Herculoids Frankenstein Jr. and Space Ghost are just a few of the celebrated comic book characters headlining at the unconventional convention plus there’s a megabucks movie premiere starring Scooby-Doo and Shaggy’s all-time favorite super heroes Blue Falcon and Dynomutt! So when the gruesome villain Mr. Hyde unleashes monster bats howling hounds and sinister slime upon the festivities it’s time for Mystery Incorporated to follow the clues and set their monster traps. But it’s the pizza-snacking super-powered tag team of Shaggy and Scooby-Doo who tap into their inner super hero to prevent the entire event from being smothered in ghoulish green goo! Like right on Dog Wonder!

Warner has given this franchise much love over the years. This 1080p transfer really looks amazing on Blu-ray. The combo pack includes not only a Blu-ray plus also a DVD and Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The animation really shines on this release, within its aspect ratio: 1.78:1. The colors are very crisp and sharp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works well with the action and crazy antics. Overall this is a very solid release but Warner has yet to disappoint with their animation department. The special features are not jam packed but include three great vintage cartoons. They are “Comic Book Caper”, “Reflections in Ghoulish Eye” and “The Scooby Coupe”. They are a blast to revisit on this release and really look great.

Actors: Peter Weller, Michael Emerson, David Selby, Michael McKean, Ariel Winter
Directors: Jay Oliva
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: January 29, 2013
Run Time: 78 minutes

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

After viewing “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns – Part 1”, I was literally counting down the days till “Part 2”. Well it has finally arrived and holy shit is it amazing!! Frank Miller’s 1986 novel comes to a stunning conclusion. I thought that “Part 1” was amazing but then this film came around and it literally blows this the first out of the water. Peter Weller really kicks some major ass as the aged Batman and while Michael Emerson is no Mark Hamill he does a decent Joker. Batman not only battles The Joker but also The Man of Steel, Superman. Frank Miller really captured the essence of our caped crusader and it has been well represented here.  This film is as epic as they come.

Official Premise: The Dark Knight along with new sidekick Robin have finally reclaimed Gotham City and allowed a ray of hope to penetrate the reign of terror that The Mutants had cast upon his city. With Batman back in the spotlight the extended media coverage has awoken a far worse evil at Arkham Asylum The Joker! Forever destined to be mortal enemies The Joker has a diabolical scheme that may pull Batman down to the darkest levels of insanity. While on the horizon a global catastrophe races towards Gotham and with it comes a familiar face The Man of Steel though this time he has Batman in his sights. Witness as the aging Dark Knight wages a tireless war against crime while proving that courage and will are indeed timeless.

Warner Premiere has really delivered another fantastic Blu-ray combo pack like with “Part 1” also including a Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The 1080p is crystal clear and works perfect with the animation.  The action is this amped up with the epic battle between our two superheros. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 delivers the mood and action of this concluding chapter perfectly. Both the audio and video are in part with “Part 1” and equally successfully.

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 next DCU animated movie, “Superman Unbound”.

Actors: Peter Weller, Michael Emerson, David Selby, Michael McKean, Ariel Winter
Directors: Jay Oliva
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 25, 2012
Run Time: 76 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

After Christopher Nolan’s fantastic trilogy, DC and Warner Premiere has decided to keep it dark and go with Frank Miller’s groundbreaking “Dark Knight Returns” arc.  The animated film itself is split into a two-part feature-length films.  They take a more violent and brutal look into our comic book anti-hero. “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns – Part 1” is one of the best films to come out of the DC Animated Universe. You forget that this film is only an animated film with how  epic this feels.  I wish that all of the DC Animated films took a page from this film.  I am not sure on Frank Miller feels on this but it feels like it literally jumps off his page on into your face!

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.

Warner Premiere has really delivered a beautiful Blu-ray combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Digital Copy. The 1080p looks beyond amazing and works perfectly with the mix of hand-drawn animation and CG effected for the film. DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works perfectly with the darkness that this film carries.  The action explodes off the screen and kicks you in the face.

The special features includes are good but not spectacular. “Her Name is Carrie… Her Role is Robin” ius 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”, which would have been amazing if it was in HD but it is not.

Actors: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch
Directors: Rich Moore
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio:  Walt Disney Pictures
Release Date: March 5, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

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

The first time I saw “Wreck-It Ralph”, I was blown away. Read our review here. Disney has done it yet again. Since that first viewing, I have seen this film five times now and it gets better and better with every viewing. If you are a fan of video games great you will love it.  If you have no idea about video games you will still love it. That is why this film succeeds. “Wreck-It Ralph” packs various cameo including Zangief from “Street Fighter II”, Sonic the Hedgehog and Q*bert to name a few. There is also appearances from Oreos, Devil Dogs, Mentos, Nestle Quik and Laffy Taffy. All of the cameos are very clever, not in your face and get tons of laughs. “Wreck-It Ralph” besides being funny and clever, also packs a lot of heart. Be sure to check this get ready to have some fun.

Here is our premise from the theatrical review: On the eve of celebrating the 30th anniversary with his game “Fix-It Felix, Jr.”, Wreck-It Ralph is tired of being the bad-guy.  He wants to be recognized for his work like Fix-It Felix does every game with his medals and getting respect from the buildings residents.  When Ralph leaves his own game to win a medal and prove that he is more than a bad-guy, he gets more than he bargained for.  After heading into the high-def first person shooter game “Hero’s Duty”, he is able to steal the hero’s medal but ends up taking one of the uncontrollable villains known as Cy-Bugs to the kart-racing game called “Sugar Rush”.  This is where he meets the cutie Vanellope von Schweetz and get involved with helping her with her issue of being a glitch and her dream to race in the game.  Of course, the ruler of the game, King Candy, has another plan.  With the help of the lead character of “Hero’s Duty”, Sergeant Tamora Jean Calhoun and Fix-It Felix Jr., they set out to find Ralph and return him to his game before it is put out-of-order for good, as well as to prevent a Cy-Bug invasion of “Sugar Rush”.

Disney spared no expense with this Ultimate Collector’s Edition.  We get a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy included within this combo pack.  The 3D effects on the Blu-ray look stunning.  You literally get swept into this video game world and taken for ride. The depth added is well balanced and the colors really jump off the screen. I prefer to watch this film in 3D but I have to tell you the 2D Blu-ray of this film looks just as impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 audio track really delivers as well.  It is absolutely stunning, exciting and action packed.  Overall, Disney has again amazed with with their audio/video on their Blu-rays.

In terms special features included here, what is delivered it is amazing but overall a little light on content.  Firstly “Paperman” is one of best short that Disney has ever made it is available in both 3D and 2D.  “Bit by Bit: Creating the Worlds of Wreck-It Ralph” is a nice production featurette with Director Rich Moore, producer Clark Spencer, writer Phil Johnston, art director Mike Gabriel, co-art director Ian Gooding, effects supervisor Cesar Velazquez, animation supervisor Renato Dos Anjos and more on the creation of this video game world. There are four deleted and alternate scenes with an introduction and optional commentary with director Rich Moore. There are four fun promos for the film’s games “Fix-It Felix Jr.,” “Sugar Rush,” “Hero’s Duty” and “Fix It Felix Hammer.”  Lastly be sure to pause the film since it comes with “Disney Intermission”, which is hosted by Chris Hardwick (“The Nerdist”, “The Talking Dead”).  He spends the time informing us about the in-game jokes and video game references. Probably more for parents then kids but still worth pausing.

At age seven, Jonathan Lipnicki was a bona fide star. As Ray Boyd, the precocious son of the title character’s love interest in “Jerry Maguire,” he stole more hearts from the audience then star Tom Cruise. Regular television roles on such series as “The Jeff Foxworthy Show” and “Meego” kept him in front of the camera, as did roles in films like “Stuart Little” and “The Little Vampire.” Though he’s still busy in front of the camera, Lipnicki has embarked on a new career, adding the title of Producer to his resume with the release of the film “Broken Roads.” While promoting the films upcoming NYC appearance Lipnicki spoke to Media Mikes about his new career and dealing with fame at such a young age.

Mike Smith: At age 22 you began a new career as a producer. How did this come about?
Jonathan Lipnicki: I always knew I would end up doing something behind the camera, but I didn’t know it would happen at this point in my career.

MS: How did you become involved with “Broken Roads?”
JL: I like to say I fell into it. I met the director, Justin Chambers, through a mutual friend, and we hit it off. He has this crazy charisma, which makes you want to be friends with him and support him. One day he asked me if I knew any actors who I thought would fit the roles he sent out breakdowns for. I sent him a few actors that I knew and he liked my choices. Not long after that he asked me if I wanted to get involved.

MS: You continue to act. Is this something you’re going to continue to pursue or do you see your career moving to more behind the scenes?
JL: Acting is my number one priority, but I would like to produce more in the future.

MS: You were a star at age 7 when “Jerry Maguire” was released. Does fame look different at that age as opposed to now when you can appreciate it more?
JL: Your perception changes about certain things like fame when you grow older, it definitely loses some of its innocence. That being said I look different so I live in anonymity, which is amazing.

MS: What do you have coming up next, either in front of or behind the camera?
JL: I currently have a web series from the Russo Brothers (“Arrested Development”) on YouTube, and I have two films in post production, “Edge of Salvation” and “TAG”.

Starring Tony Todd, Mark Hamill, Noah Hathaway, James Duval and Andy Mackenzie
Directed by Kern Saxton
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 19, 2013
Run Time: 98 minutes

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

Let’s travel back to August of 2011, I was asked to interview the cast/crew of a little film called “Sushi Girl” that just finished production and looking for some early press.  So, we ended up chatting with thirteen members of the cast and crew over the next year, check out the interview series here. Since that time, I have seen this film five times now and it never ceases to blow me away. “Sushi Girl” is a very rare gem that deserves much more attention then it has received.  The film is well written by director Kern Saxton and Destin Pfaff (COO from TV’s “The Millionaire Matchmaker”. This script channels the grindhouse feel with the clever dialogue of Quentin Tarantino. There are countless twists and turns around every corner and will leave you with your mouth open. I cannot stress any more…DO NOT MISS THIS FILM.

Official Premise: Fish has spent six years in jail. Six years alone. Six years keeping his mouth shut about the robbery, about the other men involved. The night he is released, the four men he protected with silence celebrate his freedom with a congratulatory dinner. The meal is a lavish array of sushi, served off the naked body of a beautiful young woman. The sushi girl seems catatonic, trained to ignore everything in the room, even if things become dangerous. Sure enough, the four unwieldy thieves can’t help but open old wounds in an attempt to find their missing loot.

Let me give you a rundown of this amazing cast: Tony Todd (“Candyman”), Noah Hathaway (“The Neverending Story”), Jimmy Duval (“Donnie Darko”), Andy Mackenzie (“Shoot Em Up”), Mark Hamill (“Star Wars”), Cortney Palm (“Silent Night”) and David Dastmalchian (“The Dark Knight”). If that is not enough for you there is also other familiar faces including the legendary Sonny Chiba (“Kill Bill: Vol. 1”), Jeff Fahey (“Planet Terror”), Michael Biehn (“The Terminator”) and Danny Trejo (“Machete”).

Tony Todd easily delivers one of his best roles in his career as Duke.  He is sly, dark and methodical.  Noah Hathaway, who is best known for his roles as a kid with “The Neverending Story” and “Troll”, makes his return to film and really nails the role of Fish. What a scream, Noah! Andy Mackenzie is one hell of a major bad-ass as Max, but I recommend him to keep his socks on! Yikes! Mark Hamill, wow what a performance. We all know Mark as being Luke Skywalker in the “Star Wars” saga and voicing the Joker in various works of “Batman”. He literally transforms himself in this film and is almost unrecognizable.  Literally one of his most out-of-the-box roles to date.  He steals the show and makes this movie a must see just for his performance.

Magnolia released this film with fantastic results on Blu-ray.  If you are looking for a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack, Best Buy has that exclusive release available in stores and online.  The film has this certain grindhouse feel but doesn’t trade that for quality. The film looks amazing for a low budget indie. The Blu-ray 1080p really shines and is clear and sharp. Now the real seller on this release is the unbelievable DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 audio track. It is very rare for a low-budget film like this to come with a track like this but these guys did not want to disappoint. Does this mostly dialogue driven film need a 7.1 track? Probably not. But it does rock the shit out of that track for sure. The dialogue is delivered perfectly and the action is aced.

The special features on “Sushi Girl” do nothing be leave you satisfied.  They start off with two commentary tracks. The first is a filmmaker track wiith Kern Saxton, Destin Pfaff, Neal Fischer, and Suren M. Seron. The group of them are very fun and really have a lot of passion for this project. The next track is a cast commentary track with Tony Todd, James Duval, Noah Hathaway, Andy Mackenzie, David Dastmalchian, Destin Pfaff and Kern Saxton. This is a real blast and you can tell that these guys are having a blast and loved working on this film.

Next up is kick-ass “Sushi Girl: A Documentary”, which runs an hour long. There is a lot of great behind-the-scenes footage mixed with some interviews. There is an alternate scenes for the ending, worth checking out but I am still a fan of the release ending.  Next there are over 15 minutes of outtakes, runs a little long but if you are a die-hard fan you would enjoy. “Producer’s Diaries” is some more behind-the-scenes footage and is very entertaining. If you want more interviews, then there is some footage from the film’s premiere at Fantasia Festival in Montreal and cast/crew interviews. There is a music video for “Victories and Consequences” by Send the Sages.

There are three faux TV Commercials with a “shot-on-VHS look” that loosely tie in to the film’s story. They are very clever and I enjoyed these very much.  There are also over 20 images including poster and promotional stills, as well as a behind-the-scenes gallery with another 100 stills. There are storyboards for the entire film, which I recommend to see how the film was planned out before shooting.  Lastly, there is four trailers including a green band and red band trailers. What else could you possible want to see on this Blu-ray release? These guys have not only delivers an amazing Blu-ray presentation, they also have jam-packed it with amazing and high quality extras. BTW don’t forget to watch through the credit to see Media Mikes in the credits! Thanks guys!