Actors: Ben Stiller, Tim Blake Nelson, David Goldman, Kenan Thompson, Cody Burger, Joseph Wayne Miller
Director: Steven Brill
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Video
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 97 minutes

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

I have never been a big fan of “Heavyweights”.  Let’s just say that age does not make this film any better. It features the early writing and executive producing from Judd Apatow, whom I am not a big fan of to begins with.  A little trivia about the film is that it features appearances from the father-mother-son team: Jerry Stiller, Anne Meara, and Ben Stiller. Obviously, this is the best role that Stiller has ever done.  I have a feeling the only reason why Disney is releasing this catalog title on Blu-ray is to cash-in on Apatow’s latest film “This is 40”.  It is not really a film that I would rush out and purchase on high-definition though. I would only recommend for mega-fans of the film only, if not just for the special features.

Synopsis: From the Producer of Bridesmaids…comes Heavyweights, a comedy of enormous proportions! It’s the hilarious story of a group of underdog kids who discover their beloved summer camp has been sold to a crazy fitness fanatic (Ben Stiller) who’s determined to make their lives miserable! The new owner plans to keep the boys huffing and puffing, but these hungry kids have a plan of their own. They unite to turn the tables, take back their woodsy hideaway and challenge the rival camp to themost outrageous summer games of all! You’ll laugh out loud with these Heavyweights – they’re big, loud and proud, and ready to win their way into your heart!

The 1080p video transfer for this release looks good but nothing stunning. The audio track included is a decent DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, which works overall but nothing special either.  Like I said, this isn’t really a film that was yearning for a Blu-ray upgrade. The special features are the best part of the release.  There is a behind-the-scenes feature called “The Making of Heavyweights”. There is a new audio commentary track with Judd Apatow, Steven Brill, Allen Covert, Aaron Schwartz, Shaun Weiss, Tom Hodges and Special Guest Paul Feig.  There are over 30 never-before-seen deleted & extended scenes.  There is a new video chat with Judd Apatow and Kenan Thompson.  There is some fun Super 8 footage of the Cast and Crew.  “Judd’s Art Project” are bizarre photos From the set taken by the executive producer. “Where Are They Now?” looks into the film’s cast and their current status.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

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Actors: Ray Bolger, Ed Wynn, Tommy Kirk, Annette Funicello, Tommy Sands, Ann Jilliann
Directors: Jack Donohue
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

“Babes in Toyland (1961)” is timed perfectly for the Holiday season. This is the first time that this film has been released on Blu-ray. The 1080p transfer looks sharp on this release. Disney has delivered the good for for a film that over 50 years old, it doesn’t show it’s age. The production scale is so memorable and really doesn’t skimp on quality. A little trivia about the film is that this was Disney’s first live-action musical fantasy…and who doesn’t love a nice Disney musical, especially a holiday themed one! This was also produced by Walt Disney himself. This is a perfect film to get in the mood for the holidays!

Official Synopsis: Tom the Piper’s Son is about to marry Mary Quite Contrary. On the eve of their wedding, evil miser Barnaby hires two henchmen to drown Tom and steal Mary’s sheep, cared for by Little Bo Peep, thus depriving Mary and the children she lives with of their livelihood, forcing her to marry Barnaby. The sheep arestolen, but Gonzorgo and Roderigo, Barnaby’s henchmen, double-cross him by selling Tom to a band of gypsies instead, leaving Tom with the opportunity to escape and make his way with Mary, Bo-Peep, and other Mother Goose characters to Toyland.

Like I mentioned the video transfer is sharp for “Babes in Toyland”, which is also presented with an original aspect ratio of 1:33:1. The new digital restoration really delivers the goods and does not disappoint. The audio track is not as impressive though as the video transfer with its Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono surround track. I would have liked to see a little more effort in the audio department here. Also to add insult to injury there are no special features included as well, which really makes this release feel more like a port then an upgrade. This is still worth the low-price for this Blu-ray though, especially for hardcore Disney fans.

Actors: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, LeVar Burton, Marina Spirtis
Number of discs: 5
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Paramount
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 998 minutes

Season Two: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” has become one of my favorite series, but only in the last few years. I got into it thanks to Netflix Instant. When I got a chance to review “Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season One” earlier this year, I was blown away by the way the episodes looked. Well it season two, I believe they went beyond and delivered a more impressive release (if that is possible). Season two also delivers the birth of the fan-favorite baddies, Borg. They are the best villains of the series! Resistance is futile! One of my favorite episodes of the series happen during season two: “The Measure of a Man”. Fans of the series are sure to do back flips for this release.  Also it is perfectly timed to be added to everyone’s Christmas lists and also nicely priced as well, compared to season one.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two” Blu-ray looks extremely impressive with it’s high definition transfer. The series is presented with its original broadcast 4×3 aspect ratio, which is perfect and expected. Like season one, this series contains improved special effects from the original camera negatives. If you are a fan of this series and know it well, you will have your mouth open experience these upgrades. The star of this release though has to be Season Two’s surround-sound pumping DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. Obviously the soundtrack wasn’t made with that but I can’t help but get goosebumps when I hear that theme song in 7.1 sound. Of course for the hardcore Trekkies, there is also the original Stereo Surround audio included as well.

Official Premise: Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two travels warp speed into the next realm of adventure. Under the leadership of Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart), the Enterprise faces a season of new changes and big challenges. With Dr. Crusher on sabbatical, Chief Medical Officer Katherine Pulaski (Diana Muldaur) fills in. And Guinan (Whoopi Goldberg) arrives as 10 Forward’s wise El-Aurian bartender. This voyage explores watershed moments, including Riker (Jonathan Frakes) experiencing the Klingon culture, Data (Brent Spiner) defending his humanity and the introduction of the Borg, a species of terrifying cybernetic conquerors threatening the fate of intelligent life.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” – Season Two has various special features spread out over all five discs. They are a nice improvement over season one.  To start each episodes contain their own “episodic promos”, which are an awesome retro look at the series.  Disc one extras start with an 1998 On-Air Season Two Promo, “Energized! Season Two Tech Update” is a chat with Dan Curry, Michael and Denise Okuda about release season two to high definition. Decent but I wish it was much longer. There is 1988 Star Trek-themed “Reading Rainbow” Segment with LeVar Burton, as well as a 2012 Reading Rainbow iTunes Promo with Burton showing off his new Reading Rainbow app. Lastly there is “Archival Mission Log: Departmental Briefing Year Two – Production”, which is a vintage featurette looking into a the “best of” from the filming of season two.

Disc Two brings various cuts of my favorite episode “The Measure of a Man”.  It includes an HD Extended Version, which runs 57:35 minutes from Editor Robert Lederman.  The extended cut includes thirteen minutes of new footage, which was recently turned up from Writer Melinda Snodgrass’ private VHS tape collectionand then reconstructed in high definition. Next, we have a Hybrid Extended Version for “The Measure of a Man” running at 55:50 minutes. This version of the episode that mixes up the broadcast footage in high definition and the rough VHS footage.  It is raw but still a cool look at the amazing episode.  Lastly, there is an amazing audio commentary track from Melinda Snodgrass, Michael and Denise Okuda as they discuss about the episode.

Disc Three consists of two “Archival Mission Logs” featurettes.  The first is “Inside Starfleet Archives: Penny Juday – Star Trek Coordinator”, which has her speaking about her role as the Star Trek archivist, with Star Trek Magazine and working on the film “Star Trek: Nemesis”. Next up is “Selected Crew Analysis – Year Two”, which features various cast/crew chatting about the show’s characters roles including Patrick Stewart, LeVar Burton,  Gene Roddenberry, Rick Berman, Wil Wheaton, Marina Sirtis, Diana Muldaur and Peter Lauritson.  Lastly there is a funny Gag Reel, presented in HD and runs about 10 minutes.

The star of Disc Four extra is the audio commentary track from Dan Curry, Rob Bowman, and Mike & Denise Okuda for the episode “Q Who?”.  Lastly, there is also another “Archival Mission Log” called “Departmental Analysis Year Two – Memorable Missions”.  It features interviews with cast and crew on the following episodes:  “Loud as a Whisper”, “The Icarus Factor”, “Up the Long Ladder”, “The Dauphin”, “Elementary, Dear Data”, “Manhunt”, and “The Measure of a Man”.

Disc Five has the best extras of any disc and also the best feature in the whole release, which is “Reunification: 25 Years After Star Trek: The Next Generation”, which runs just over an hour.  It is a awesome cast reunion with all of the primary cast members — Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Marina Sirtis, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, and Wil Wheaton.  It just makes me want to give them all a hug and re-watch the episodes again! “Make it So – Continuing Star Trek: The Next Generation”. It consists of two parts, the first part 1 – “Strange New Worlds” and the second “New Life and New Civilizations”.  Each one runs about 40 minutes and is a look into the season’s best qualities and character in depth from cast, crew and others.  Lastly there is one more final “Archival Mission Log” called “Mission Overview – Year Two”, which is a look into Roddenberry’s plans for the future and reflection on the show’s success.

Actors: Quvenzhané Wallis, Dwight Henry, Levy Easterly, Lowell Landes
Director: Benh Zeitlin
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

“…once there was a Hushpuppy and she lived with her daddy in The Bathtub“. 

Before getting into “Beasts of the Southern Wild”, I was not sure what to expect. This little indie keeps your attention from the moment it starts. It is extremely brutal and honest but that is the charm of this film. Quvenzhané Wallis really gives a wonderful performance playing Hushpuppy. She delivers such a fantastic performance that I wouldn’t be surprised to see award bells ringing in her future. Then Mix in some giant prehistoric beasts and you have yourself one enthralling film. Since this is Benh Zeitlin’s directorial debut, it is quite impressive. I am sure we will get some amazing things in the future. As we enter the end of the year, I would recommend checking out this little indie drama.

Official Premise: Teeming with magic, beauty and pure joy, this crowd-pleasing winner at the Sundance Film Festival has emerged as one of the year’s most acclaimed films. Newcomer Quvenzhan‚ Wallis delivers an “Oscarr-worthy performance” (Philadelphia Daily News) as Hushpuppy, the six-year-old force of nature in an isolated bayou community. When her tough but loving father Wink (Dwight Henry) succumbs to a mysterious malady, the fierce and determined girl bravely sets out on a journey to the outside world. But Hushpuppy’s quest is hindered by a “busted” universe that melts the ice caps and unleashes an army of prehistoric beasts.

The Blu-ray presentation from 20th Century Fox is no joke. It is being delivered as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD discs, as well as a downloadable digital copy. The film is low-budget but that doesn’t stop it from looking and sounding amazing. The 1080p transfer is extremely sharp and looks great. The audio included is a very impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. This works well with the film’s scale and score. If you enjoyed this film be sure to check out the digital flipbook at http://www.comeseethewild.com/.

The special features are decent for this Blu-ray release. There are about 15 minutes of deleted scenes, each includes commentary from director Benh Zeitlin. There are the initial audition tapes for Quvenzhané Wallis and Dwight Henry. “The Making of Beasts of the Southern Wild” is a nice look into the production. It sort-of makes up for a lack of commentary track on the release. “Glory at Sea” is Ben Zeitlin’s first short film, from 2008 and in sort-of a lead into this film. There is a feature on the music with composer Dan Romer. “The Aurochs” looks into creation of the enormous beasts, I wish this was longer! Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

Actors: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Joan Allen, Albert Finney
Directors: Tony Gilroy
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 135 minutes

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

When I think of Matt Damon, I always think about Jason Bourne. I have never really been though a huge fan of this series. I only saw “The Bourne Ultimatum” roughly days five years after its release and shortly before watching this film. And I only watched it since [semi-spoiler] I heard that it is connected to this film at various points. This is the first time that Jeremy Renner is taking over the franchise. After his key role in “The Avengers” as Hawkeye, he is does a decent job here but he can’t help the weak film overall. You are left with too many questions after watching this. I am very generous in my score, since I am still on a high from “The Avengers” and he is one my hot list right now. Also of course I do not think we have seen the end of the Bourne series either, so I assume there will be a fifth film soon.

Official Premise: The Bourne Legacy pulls back the curtain on a government secret even darker than Jason Bourne. When Bourne exposes Operation Treadstone at the end of The Bourne Ultimatum,he sparks a bonfire that threatens to burn down decades of research and development into the building of better spies and warriors. In The Bourne Legacy, audiences discover that there are actually a variety of covert intelligence programs – all of which now feel the threat of exposure. On the verge of having their conspiracy revealed, members of the government’s intelligence community will stop at nothing to erase all evidence of their top secret programs. With his life in jeopardy, agent Aaron Cross (Jeremy Renner) must use his genetically-engineered skills to survive the ultimate game of cat-and-mouse and finish what Jason Bourne started.

The Blu-ray releases comes with in a sweet combo pack with the Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy and Ultraviolet digital streaming. The 1080p transfer looks great for the film but I expected that honestly and nothing less. The star of this release though is easily its audio track. “The Bourne Legacy” packs a perfect DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track, which really steals the show. It also gives quite a workout to your surround sound system.

The special features are decent but overall each one runs too short. There is an audio commentary track from Director/co-writer Tony Gilroy, co-writer Dan Gilroy, editor John Gilroy, director of photography Robert Elswit, second unit director Dan Bradley and production designer Kevin Thompson. It is very in depth and recommend for only fans of the film. There are three decent deleted scenes, which run about 7 minutes and each with optional commentary from the Gilroys and Elswit. “Re-Bourne” is a short features on continuing the series without Jason Bourne. “Enter Aaron Cross” is another short feature about Renner becoming the next super agent. “Crossing Continents” is a featurette about filming on location. “Moving Targets” focuses on Aaron and Marta with cast/crew interviews. “Man vs. Wolf” features Renner talking about wolves. “Wolf Sequence Test” is an animated storyboard reel for the wolf attack. Lastly “Capturing Chaos: The Motorbike Chase” looks the filming of the fast-paced action scene.

Actors: Tara Strong, Ashleigh Ball, Tabitha St. Germain
Directors: Jayson Thiessen
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 120 minutes

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

When I showed this title to my wife, who grew up with the original 80’s series, the first thing she said is she hated the way the animation looks. I understand where she is coming from but I kind of like of the Japanese anime feel to this new rebooted series. Watching this show with my six month old daughter, she couldn’t take her eyes off the screen. It is like a color and noise explosion for the kids.

There are four episodes includes from “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic” series, including “The Crystal Empire Part 1 & 2, Sonic Rainboom, Luna Eclipsed and “It’s About Time”. Though on the same day that this is being release “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic- Season One” is also being released, I would just recommend that one since you get 26 episodes of 5 for only double the price. At the time of writing this review they have aired 57 episodes and are into season three, so Shout Factory better get a move on releasing season two quickly!

Official Premise: In Adventures in the Crystal Empire, a magical empire has suddenly appeared in the arctic north of Equestria, and Princess Celestia needs Twilight Sparkle and her friends to find a way to protect it. While her friends try to keep the Crystal Ponies occupied at the Crystal Faire, Twilight Sparkle searches for the hidden Crystal Heart that is the key to keeping their empire safe from harm!

The show itself is extremely colorful and very eye-catching for kids. The DVD is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen and with 2.0 Stereo audio track. If you are looking for more “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic”, the series is currently airing on The HUB TV Network. So check it out! The special features are a little light for a kids release but include a coloring sheet and sing-along.

Actors: Gary Daniels, Peter Weller
Directors: Jonas Quastel
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: December 18, 2012
Run Time: 100 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to mixed martial arts, I am big sucker for whatever is available. This film has a lot going for it including starring Peter Weller, known best for playing “Robocop” and also former world kick-boxing champion Gary Daniels (“The Expendables”). I have loved Daniel’s work going back to “Fist of the North Star”. The story is what you would expect from this type of film but it still works. The film is action-packed and features various fighting styles including wrestling, judo, jiu jitsu etc. There is something for everyone here in this non-stop thrill ride. Recommended for all MMA fans!

Official Premise: Once a legend in the brutal world of illicit underground fighting, Shane Slavin (Daniels) decides to turn his life around, promising his wife and young son he’s fought his last battle. But when his younger brother betrays a ruthless crime boss (Weller), Shane is forced back into the arena to pay his brother’s debts and to protect his family. Now Shane must confront a gauntlet of incredibly savage, no-holds-barred fights with no rules, no mercy and just two possible outcomes: win or die fighting.

“Forced to Fight” comes with a nice Blu-ray presentation. It looks damn impressive with its 1080p transfer and it’s aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track works well with the film’s action. You will find yourself dodging punches on your couch! The downside is that there are no special features included on this release. I also would have loved to see this released as a combo pack with a DVD, as well included.

Actors: Calvin Reeder, Lane Hughes, Adam Wingard
Directors: Adam Wingard, David Bruckner, Ti West, Glenn McQuaid, Joe Swanberg
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Magnolia Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 116 minutes

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

When it comes to anthology horror, “Creepshow” still holds my favorite chip. “V/H/S” though is easily one of my favorite horror films of 2012. It is unique and takes the POV genre to a new level. Plus, personally having grown up on VHS and 80’s horror, this film completely speaks to me. It is weird to think that my own daughter, who is only 6 months will not know what a VHS tape is. I don’t think these are terrifying but definitely get some good jumps and some “WTF” moments. If you are looking for some kick ass horror from some very talent young directors, do not miss “V/H/S”.

The film contains six different segments “Tape 56”, which also is the main arc; “Amateur Night”, “Second Honeymoon”, my favorite of them all; “Tuesday the 17th”, “The Sick Thing That Happened to Emily When She Was Younger” and “10/31/98”. They are all tied together yet completely different. Some of them are harder to stomach than others in terms of the brutal level. Some are better than the others but overall they work well as a team to kick some major ass!

This film packs some great directoral talent including Adam Wingard (“The ABC’s of Death”, “A Horrible Way to Die”), David Bruckner (“The Signal”), Ti West (“The Innkeepers”, “The House of the Devil”), Glenn McQuaid (“I Sell the Dead”), Joe Swanberg (“The Zone”) and Radio Silence. There is so much love for the horror genre here that this film is almost guaranteed not the fail. These guys love their 80’s horror and really deliver some great unique approach to the anthology POV horror genre.

Official Premise: V/H/S is a POV, found-footage horror film from the perspective of America’s top genre filmmakers. In V/H/S, a group of misfits are hired by an unknown third party to burglarize a desolate house in the countryside and acquire a rare tape. Upon searching the house, the guys are confronted with a dead body, a hub of old televisions and an endless supply of cryptic footage, each video stranger and more inexplicable than the last…

Here is the thing about this film, it is not meant to look perfect. It is very low-budget and made to look like it was on VHS tape. So the 1080p looks perfect for what is expected. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks works well with the dialogue and the jumps. There are some decent special features included here including cast and crew commentary tracks. There is also an alternate ending for “10/31/98”. There is some deleted scenes from “Tuesday the 17th” and “Amateur Night”. There are interviews with cast and crew including web cam interviews. The “Conceptual Design Gallery” for the character of Lily is worth checking out. “AXS TV: A Look at V/H/S” is a behind-the-scenes looks at the production of the segments. Lastly there are trailers included.

Director: Mervyn Leroy
Cast: Karl Malden, Natalie Wood, Rosalind Russell
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Archive
Running Time: 143 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: November 20, 2012

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

Growing up in New York and always traveling to the city, I have seen numerous different version of this Broadway classic over the years. The cast is so perfect for this film and Karl Malden, Natalie Wood, and Rosalind Russell all deliver their best. The film itself is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year and has never looked better.  Thanks need to go to Warner Archive for delivering this classic on Blu-ray for the first time. This is one of Warner Archive’s first go-round at Blu-ray and I can’t wait to see what they have planned next. I would highly recommend this release. It is being made via MOD, so be sure to get it before it goes out of print.

Official Synopsis: Ringing with the showbiz sass of its Jule Styne/Stephen Sondheim score, the film version of the Broadway hit Gypsy takes you on a grand vaudeville tour. It sweeps you up in the roller-coaster relationship of Louise (Natalie Wood), the wallflower later to blossom into sophisticated stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, and her ambitious mother, Rose (Rosalind Russell who’s performance won her a fifth Best Actress Golden Globe Award). Karl Malden scores as Herbie, the salesman who falls for Rose – to his exasperation. Full of terrific tunes (Everything’s Coming Up Roses and Small World among them), Gypsy will certainly entertain you and definitely make you smile.

For a film made back in 1962, this film looks very nice it’s brand new high-definition 1080p transfer and the original aspect ratio of 2.40:1. I was very impressive with the beautiful video presentation. The audio includes an DTS-HD MA 2.0 surround track. It sounds good but since the film is a musical, I was really hoping this was going to better than good. The special features are slim but at least there is something. Warner Archive usually deliver bare bones, so something is better than nothing. There are two outtake musical numbers for “You’ll Never Get Away from Me (Duet Version)” and “Together Wherever We Go”. Also there is the theatrical trailer included. Overall, for Warner Archive’s first go-round on Blu-ray it is very impressive and I look forward to future releases.

Director: Sidney Lumet
Cast: Michael Caine, Christopher Reeve, Dyan Cannon
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Archive
Running Time: 116 minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: November 20, 2012

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

“Deathtrap” is a fun mix of comedy and cat and mouse genre. The duo of Michael Caine and Christopher Reeve are brilliant and they work well together. Since the film is celebrating it’s 30th anniversary, it stills works and holds it own today. This release is one of the first from Warner Bros Archive on Blu-ray and it is quite impressive. If you are a fan of this little cult classic, I would highly recommend this release. It is being made via MOD, so be sure to get it before it goes out of print.

Official Synopsis: If you were a famed mystery playwright with a devastating string of recent flops, what would you do for a can’t-miss thriller script? Beg for it? Pay for it? Or would you kill for it? You would if you were Sidney Bruhl, the leading character in Ira Levin’s dazzlingly funny, deliciously scary, Broadway-smash-turned-movie-hit Deathtrap. Michael Caine starts as Bruhl and Christopher Reeve stars as Bruhl’s one-time student, who’s written a play so flawless “even a gifted director couldn’t ruin it” …and who requests Bruhl’s production help. And Dyan Cannon is Bruhl’s loving wife, who doesn’t want the student helped to an early grave. Sydney Lumet directs Deathtrap’s hairpin twists with such drop-dead wit and delightful dread that you’ll stop laughing only long enough to gasp in surprise.

For a film made back in 1982, this film looks very nice it’s brand new high-definition 1080p transfer and the original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The audio includes an DTS-HD MA 2.0 surround track. It works for the film’s dialogue but don’t otherwise blow you away. When it comes to special features, unfortunately this release only comes with a trailer and nothing else. Hopefully this will change in the future, especially since Warner Archive’s Blu-ray for “Gypsy” includes some extras. Overall, for Warner Archive’s first go-round on Blu-ray it is very impressive and I look forward to future releases.

Malcolm McDowell started his acting career in the early 60’s and has appeared in over 100 productions. Malcolm is probably best known for his role as Alex in Stanley Kubrick’s cult classic “A Clockwork Orange”. More recently he appeared in the remake of the 80’s holiday horror classic “Silent Night”. Media Mikes had the chance to talk with Malcolm recently about his role in the film and some of his other recent work.

Adam Lawton: How did you become attached to the remake of “Silent Night”?
Malcolm McDowell: They came to me with that role. I was actually in the same city they were shooting the film in at the same time as I was there working on another project. I was already there so I figured why not. I had never seen the original but I looked at the script and thought it would be fun to play a sheriff. I had never actually played a sheriff before. I think the director did a fantastic job with the film. Everything he brought to the production was really great. I think he is going to have a great future. It’s always good to see a young director blossoming and getting hold of things. Even though the film could be considered a B Horror movie there is still some fantastic work that can be done. It’s a great showcase for him and I am really proud.

AL: Can you give us a little more background on your character?
MM: He is a noble man but not really the brightest guy on the planet. The town he works in is a quiet one where the biggest problem he might have to deal with is public drunkenness. Now he is hit with a rash of serial killings which wipes out a majority of the town. He thinks he can handle it and that’s what I thought was so amusing about the role. Our job in this film is to scare people and also make them laugh. It’s entertainment. It’s not to be taken seriously as there are not people dressed as Santa going around flame throwing people. It’s just a fun ride. It’s like a video game.

AL: Did the director keep you confined to script or were you allowed to experiment some?
MM: I was allowed to move around a bit. That’s something I always like to do. It’s much more fun to add in a few bits here and there. I can’t really remember what I added but I know there were a few parts that made it in.

AL: Can you tell us what it was like working on “Home Alone: The Holiday Heist”?
MM: That was really fun. I have 3 young boys and I knew they would love that. When they told me what it was I was a bit unsure however I had worked with the director before and I liked working with him. Now that I have children of my own I look at these types of roles a little more differently these days. Anything I can do that is fun for them I like to do. It was great working with the cast as they are some wonderful actors.

AL: Before you had your children were you a fan of the holiday film genre?
MM: They aren’t film’s I would go and see personally. I like films that are for a mature audience and ones that make you think. Those seem to be getting fewer and fewer so I don’t go to the cinema much anymore. There are some good movies out there right now. “The Master” is an amazing film! Those are the types of things I like.

AL: What do you like most about working on series like “Franklin and Bash”?
MM: It’s like working in theater. You know everybody and you are a family. You get to know everyone very well. It’s a nurturing environment. It is a fantastic privilege to be able to do this. I have a very nice role and I love the character. I hope they continue writing me great stuff.

AL: Do you prefer working on a series at this stage of character as opposed to feature films?
MM: It fits perfectly in to my schedule. With these kids of mine I don’t want to be going away. I want to be around to see them grow up. It works very well for me these days. We shoot in Los Angeles so I can drive there which is perfect. I am not in every minute of things or carry the show as I don’t think is something I would want to do.

AL: Can you tell us about some of your upcoming projects?
MM: I have a couple of films that I am waiting to start on. I think there are 3 or 4 of them. I should be starting those in December and January. I also will be starting work on the new season of “Franklin and Bash”. We will be shooting that until about May. I am really excited to start back on that.

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• Keanu Reeves and Mark Mann talk about working together on “Generation Um…”
• Lia Beldam reflects on her role as Room 237’s guest in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining”
• Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje talks about roles in “Bullet to the Head” and “Thor: The Dark World”
• Steven Seagal chats about his new film “Maximum Conviction” and rumors of “The Expendables 3”

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EACH WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

With almost six decades in the film business, it would be hard for Joe Alves to pick his favorite project. Alves, an Oscar nominated and BAFTA award winning production designer, is responsible for the look of such classic films as “Jaws,” “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “Escape From New York” and many others. Recently Alves decided to offer to fans the opportunity to purchase autographed copies of some of his story boards from “Jaws” at his new site – www.joealvesmovieart.com

Alves is also offering an exclusive autographed compilation of some of his conceptions for “Close Encounters” as well as a composite of his visions of the ID from “Forbidden Planet,” one of the first Hollywood features Mr. Alves worked on.

With this year marking the 35th Anniversary of “Close Encounters” please take a moment to revisit my interview with Mr. Alves in which he discusses his amazing career.

Mr. Alves has graciously provided Media Mikes readers a chance to win an autographed “Jaws” illustration of their choice. All you have to do is let us know your favorite scene from “Jaws.” One random winner will be picked from all comments and that winner will be notified by email. Contest ends at Midnight EST on December 16.

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• Complimentary Passes to the Kansas City Advance Screening of “Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters” [ENDED]
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• Win an Autographed DVD of the New Film “Broken Roads” [ENDED]
• Win Code to Watch Brandon Cronenberg’s “Antiviral” [ENDED]

Media Mikes is teaming up with IGN to offer the chance of a lifetime to the ultimate “Evil Dead” fans. By going to the Facebook link below fans can explain why they are the biggest “Evil Dead” fan. When they do this they will be entered to win prizes from Sony (including a television and Blu-Ray DVD player), a poster and the chance to have an exclusive premiere viewing of the new red band trailer WITH BRUCE CAMPBELL!

Click “here” for more details: http://bit.ly/MeetBruceCampbell

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Mark Walsh has been animating with Pixar going back to “A Bug’s Life”. He took on the role of Directing Animator for Dorey on “Finding Nemo”. Most recently he has gone behind the camera and directed the newest Toy Story Toons called “Partysaurus Rex”. Personally, I think it is brilliant and my personal favorite of any Pixar short. Media Mikes had a chance to really dive in about the short with Mark and find out some really cool facts about the film.

Mike Gencarelli: You’ve been with Pixar almost since the beginning, how was it stepping away from the animating desk and behind the camera directing the Toy Story Toons short “Partysaurus Rex”?
Mark Walsh: I love it. I have been reading articles about different actors who are turning directors. Largely what an animator is an actor. So to move to directing has been a similar experience. I think it is really fun and I enjoy the collaboration of it, even more than animating. I think animating is trying to create an emotion or feeling and directing is the same thing but on a larger scale. Yes, there are many more things to worry about. Yes, the buck stop with you…but the feeling of creation and collaboration, especially when something works is unparallel. I love it.

MG: Where you nervous at playing with the “Toy Story” brand?
MW: Not really. I am familiar with the characters. I worked with them before on the TV commercials for “Toy Story 3”. Working with the creator of the series, John Lasseter, there isn’t anything that he would let through that isn’t right. John will really be interested in how each director is going to push things. I think that is why “Toy Story 3” feels like a “Toy Story” film but also feels like a Lee Unkrich film. That is because John invites the input of the new director and he still makes sure it stays within the world. So with that support on hand, I felt invigorated to try new things. “Partysaurus Rex” is pretty different than the usual. But it I was happy knowing that the guardians of the franchise, here at Pixar, were there to make sure that I didn’t step out of bounds.

MG: I like that Rex gets a chance to shine. He is a funny character!
MW: Isn’t he great!? Rex is just such a sweet character. What I like most about Dorey from “Finding Nemo” is that she is a comedy relief character. But she is rare comedy relief character that gets a spotlight to see what it is like to be the comedy relief character. In her case, it is kind of sad. Rex is similar in a way. He is so nervous and nerdy that he funny. However what is it like to actually be that guy? I had that experience in school when I was a kid. So I just tapped into that for the movie.

MG: How long did this short take to make from idea to completion?
MW: A long time actually. It took about two years from start to finish, which seems long for six and half minutes. But there are two things that were going on. First, we had to wait for “Small Fry” to get finished. They were both produced by our sister studio at Pixar Canada. They are a really small studio, smaller than Pixar was when I came on during “A Bug’s Life”. They have a really great culture there but they can’t handle five or six shorts at the same time. Both Angus MacLane and I started on our shorts at the same time but I had to wait until they finished. Also it took two years since the itself process is just very long and arduous. There isn’t any stage of the production where the questions aren’t asked “Can we make this better?”, “How can we approve this?”, or “Can we add any more entertainment value here?”. That takes time. I was really pleased though because the shorts at Pixar gets treated the same way that the features do.

MG: Tell us about collaborating with BT for the music?
MW: BT is amazing. You listen to electronic dance music and some people think “How hard could it be?”. You have a drum beat and maybe some synthesizers. BT is not one of those people. He is an artist. What I liked about BT’s work is that it has the most emotion to me compared to other artists and DJs. When you are working in film, especially a short like “Partysaurus Rex”, emotion is what you are after. I wanted music that would be like a second character. I am very glad he found the time for us and that we were able to collaborate. The music gets louder, more intense and a bit crazier as the film goes on along with the party. So it kind of represents the party in a way. The music had to start small and get crazy, so the biggest challenge was reining it in. BT was able to do that so well. He just brought idea after idea and that was the best part of working with him.

MG: How does it feel to be the first Pixar short to not only have a MP3 single but also get a level in video game “Tap Tap Revenge”?
MW: I love it. Usually shorts don’t get this short of reaction. Especially a franchise related short. I was just trying to create this story with fun music that matched it. I wasn’t even sure if people would like it, but the response has just been amazing. It has been positive for all ages, especially young people. There is so much music that BT made, but the film just wasn’t long enough. We kept getting request after request for music from the film. On the single, BT had used “Partysaurus” as the inspiration even including dialogue and created this track, which plays so well on the dance floor. I listen to it every day and I feel that it even works better than the version in the film.

MG: How many hidden Pixar nods are there in this short, like the Sulley toilet cover?
MW: [laughs] Yeah, there is a lot in there actually. There is quite a few “Finding Nemo” references, since I worked on “Nemo” as the directing animator for Dorey. When we cut to the underwater guys and the “What Up Fishes” scene, Mr. Ray from “Finding Nemo is down there as well as one of the dolphins from that film. There is T-Bone from “Small Fry”, who floats by. There are a lot of “Toy Story 3” characters. But I am not going to tell you all of them; I want people to find them out for themselves.

MG: You also voice the new character Drips the Whale, tell us about that?
MW: When you are trying to get the story worked out, you are looking for something that is funny and gets it done. I liked the idea of a faucet cover, so kids won’t hit there heads, and I’ve seen them for sale. I thought it would be funny to have it coming out of his mouth, so he was permanently talking like this [mumbling in Drips’ voice]. We always record our voices as temporary voices when we are developing the story. It helps us find out if the movie is working before you bring in Tom Hanks or Tim Allen, which is great. Drips and also Puffy, aka “What Up Fishes” are my voices. Due to time, the fact that it was already funny and we didn’t have a name star attached to play them, John said “Why not!”. So I felt very lucky it is rare that a temporary voice gets to stay in the film.

MG: Do you have plans to take sight on features next to direct?
MW: I hope so. In Hollywood, everyone always says “I am doing this now, but what I really want to do is direct”. Everyone thinks that it is better, but it is really hard work. This was actually the hardest job that I have ever had but it is also the most gratifying. I am happy to just keep, as they say “doing the reps”, lifting weights to get my skills up. What has always been important to me at Pixar is that my craft is good. So I hope that I still have opportunities moving forward to keep improving on that craft. Until then, I am just building up my biceps [laughs].

Actors: Travis Rice, John Jackson, Mark Landvik, Scotty Lago, Jake Blauvelt
Directors: Curt Morgan
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Red Bull Media House
Running Time: 80 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“The Art of Flight 3D” not just another documentary film about snowboarding. It is much more.  The film was released prior back in September 2011 but was not in 3D.  Let me tell you that adding the third dimension to this film really makes the difference.  Like I said this is not just about snowboarding, the film is jam-packed with action, adventure and even drama. It follows the well-known snowboarder Travis Rice and his friends as it follows them over two years as they aim to experience the limit of snowboarding. The film is released from Red Bull film division…that’s right the energy drink.  This film is your average documentary on a bender of Red Bull.  I would highly recommend experiencing this film, especially in 3D.

Official Synopsis: Brace yourself for a new breed of action sports film as Red Bull Media House presents the re-release of Red Bull Media House’s acclaimed film now in 3D titled “The Art of FLIGHT 3D,” a Curt Morgan film. “The Art of FLIGHT 3D” combines meaningful storytelling and character development with sport progressing action, all captured on state-of-the-art filmmaking equipment, much of which has been custom designed just for this project. Equal parts stunning action and harrowing adventure mix with the inevitable drama encountered along the way, presenting viewers with an exclusive opportunity to experience these endeavors virtually firsthand. With unprecedented access, the audience will share in the experience as snowboarder Travis Rice, along with a cast of the best riders in the world, complete a two-year quest to redefine what’s possible on a snowboard.

First of all the cinematography in the film is extremely impressive, thanks to filming with the RED camera system. It really scales up the film and makes it feel much bigger. We get to experience the mountains in locations like Chilean Patagonia’s Darwin Range, Alaska’s Tordrillo Range, Wyoming’s Snake River Range, Aspen, Colorado, the Andes, as well as British Columbia’s Kootenay Mountains. The 3D really added a lot of depth to these wonderful landscapes. I am sure it looked amazing on Blu-ray without but I really enjoyed the depth added to the locations. When it comes to snowboarding films, you got to make sure to have a killer soundtrack and “The Art of Flight” does not disappoint. It features the music of The Naked and Famous, M83, Deadmau5, Sigur Rós and more.

“The Art of FLIGHT 3D” will be released exclusively in AMC Theatres on December 7th in markets including New York, Boston, Seattle, San Francisco, Spokane, Denver, Salt Lake City, Charlotte and Minneapolis.  The film will also be available via TUGG throughout December 2012 and Winter 2013.  TUGG is a web-platform that enables moviegoers to choose the films that play at their local theaters. Then hopefully Red Bull is planning a 3D Blu-ray release since I would love to own this film for repeat viewings.