Actors: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck Norris
Directors: Simon West
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: November 20, 2012
Run Time: 102 minutes

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

When I say “The Expendables”, I wasn’t overly thrilled.  Though this sequel was exactly that this film should have been the first time around.  It is faster, meaner and more kick-ass.  The action is better, the jokes are funnier and the cast is more fierce. This time around the rogue team of misfits take on a new job for what they think should be a quick, in-and-out mission, but of course they get more than they bargain for.  When one of their own is killed, the Expendables set out to seek revenge in hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them. “The Expendables 2” has grossed over $300 million worldwide, so “The Expendables 3” is guaranteed and I say “Bring it on”. Just don’t expect to see Steven Seagal in it, read here. Can’t wait to see what they are going to come up with next.

Let’s just go through this cast real quick: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck Norris, Terry Crews, Randy Couture, Liam Hemsworth, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Damn! That never get’s old. I absolutely love this cast. Stallone is much more bad-ass this time around. Jet Li is MIA after the opening but still is cool. Van Damme is awesome as the baddie and perfectly named Jean Vilain. Bruce and Arnold are a great team up especially in the film’s finale. But for me the winner of the film has to go to Booker played by Chuck Norris. He pops in, kicks some major ass, quotes a Chuck Norris Fact and is surrounded by mystery…Classic!

This releases comes in a Blu-ray combo pack with an iTunes and Uiltraviolet digital copy, but where is the DVD copy?The Blu-ray presentation looks absolutely perfect.  The 1080p transfer is extremely impressive.  The star of the film, besides Chuck Norris, is the wonderful DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1.  Since this film is jam-packed with some great action, this is a wonderful companion.  My surround sound needed some aspirn for sure after blasting out this track.  And I would like to apologize to my neighbor if they are reading this 😉

The special features included are impressive.  There is an audio commentary track with director Simon West, which is awesome but I would have also liked to seen a cast commentary track as well.  NExt up there are four jam-packed behind-the-scenes featurettes.  “Gods of War: Assembling Earth’s Mightiest Antiheroes” looks into the mega-cast and how it was put together.  “On the Assault: The Real-Life Weaponry of The Expendables” looks into the heavy artiliary used in this sequel.  “Big Guns, Bigger Heroes: The 1980s and the Rise of the Action Film” is exactely what it’s subtitle says it is, a reflect on the influence of 80’s action films.  “Guns of Hire: The Real Expendables” wraps up the featurettes with a look into the real heros of the film. Lastly there are a few deleted scenes and gag reel included.  Highly recommend this release for holiday gifting.

Actors: George A. Romero, Tom Savini, Roy Frumkes
Directors: Roy Frumkes
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Synapse Films
DVD Release Date: November 13, 2012
Run Time: 102 minutes

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

When “The Document of the Dead” was first released in 1985, the documentary by filmmaker Roy Frumkes focused purely on the production of the 1978 film “Dawn of the Dead”. “The Definitive Document Of The Dead” expands more on Romero’s career including work on “Land of the Dead”, “Diary of the Dead” and “Survival of the Dead”. There is a disclaimer in the beginning stating that this film was film over 32 years and the film’s vision has changed over the years. Fans of “Dawn of the Dead” and Romero should already known about this film and respect that Roy Frumkes is a life-long fan of his work. The film as a documentary isn’t Shakespeare but I feel that it does give Romero the credit that he deserves and never seems to get. Synapse Film released a DVD of this film going back almost 15 years now. So this is a welcomed revisit and packaged with a new “Definitive” cut. Also if you are a mega-big fan of this film, there is an Exclusive Limited Edition Blu-ray + DVD Combo Pack limited to just over 1,000 copies on the Synapse Website. So that would be the ticket for hardcore fans, if it is even still available at the time of writing this.

“The Document Of The Dead” primary focus is “Dawn of the Dead” and it covers everything from pre-production, production and post-production. Frumkes was there shooting during the production and includes some very intimate interviews with Romero, (producer) Richard Rubinstein, special effects artist/actor/stuntman Tom Savivi, as well as several cast and crew members. I also liked how the film comes around through time and we get to see Frumkes and Romero reunited and reflecting on the film over time specifically during a segment on “Two Evil Eyes”, which showcased on a detailed special effects segment. The new interviews included in this are also a real treat.  Being a horror fan myself “Dawn of the Dead” is so iconic and this is a perfect companion piece to the film itself. This “Defintive” cut really dives further into his career and the film/series over the years…especially with spin-off like “Night of the Giving Head”. Trust me if your a guy, you need to watch this!

Official Premise: “George A. Romero, director of the original Night of the Living Dead, is one of the horror genre’s most celebrated filmmakers. Roy Frumkes amazing 1978 documentary Document Of The Dead was an intimate look at Romero’s creative process, with an outstanding collection of interviews, effects demonstrations (courtesy of make-up artist, Tom Savini) and behind-the-scenes footage from the classic horror film, Dawn of the Dead. This newly re-edited and re-mastered 2012 version of the award-winning documentary contains all-new exclusive material including additional interviews with Romero’s family and friends, candid on-set footage from Two Evil Eyes, Land of the Dead, Diary of the Dead, Survival of the Dead and Many More Surprises! the Definitive Document of the Dead is a loving portrait of a horror legend, and a must-see for any hardcore horror fan!”

The DVD special features are a little bit of a let down since it is missing quite a bit of extras from the previous release. The only extra included on this release is an all-new 2012 audio commentary track with Roy Frumkes. It is fantastic to get a chance to hear a new perspective on the film from the director. I would have also like to had the previous audio commentary with director Frumkes, cinematographer Reeves Lehmann, and narrator Nicole Potter included as well, as well as the twenty minute interview segment from “Two Evil Eyes” with Adrienne Barbeau, George Romero, and Tom Savini. Still though if you already own “The Document of the Dead” DVD you have that already. This is the “Definitive” release with a longer cut doc and a new commentary, so it is all worth it in that sense.

Directed by: Rick Alverson
Starring: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim, James Murphy, Gregg Turkington, Kate Lyn Sheil, Alexia Rasmussen, Jeff Jensen
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Tribeca Film
Running time: 94 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Right off the bat, you see Tim Heidecker starring in a film called “The Comedy” and expect this hilarious film like their recent “Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie”. Well you will be thrown for a real loop when you find out that this is actually not a comedy at all and very much a drama – well maybe a dramedy, since there is some funny parts. Fans of Tim and Eric though, be prepared since even though Eric Wareheim appears in the film, this is not a Tim and Eric project. But that doesn’t mean that it is a bad thing. Tim really gets a chance to shine in this film and gives a really wonderful dramatic performance, yes I am being serious here! “The Comedy” is a really well written and executed film.

Official Premise: On the cusp of inheriting his father’s estate, Swanson (Tim Heidecker, “Tim & Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!”) is a man with unlimited options. An aging hipster in Brooklyn, he spends his days in aimless recreation with like-minded friends (“Tim & Eric” co-star Eric Wareheim, LCD Soundsystem frontman James Murphy and comedian Gregg Turkington a.k.a.“Neil Hamburger”) in games of comic irreverence and mock sincerity. As Swanson grows restless of the safety a sheltered life offers him, he tests the limits of acceptable behavior, pushing the envelope in every way he can.

The film was an official selection at 2012 Sundance Film Festival and I have been dying to see this film ever since. It is being distributed by Tribeca Film (one of my favs), is available now on VOD and set for theatrical release on November 9, 2012. This film really deserves a lot of attention and I hope it gets Tim recognized for his fantastic performance. There is still some raunch material included here  from his days of “Tim & Eric” but it is blended in so well that it works and doesn’t overtake the drama. This is highly recommended and easily one of the best indie films that I have seen all year! Tribeca Film has done it again and gave life to a film that would have otherwise gone a miss.

Starring: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench and Javier Bardem
Directed by: Sam Mendes
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 2 hours 23 minutes
MGM

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

One of the things you learn as a film critic is to always hedge your bets. Which is why, six years ago this month, I called ‘Casino Royale’ “possibly the best Bond movie ever!” Thank goodness for the word “possibly.”

In the 50 years since James Bond first hit the big screen in “Dr. No” there have been 22 official films in the series, each one contributing SOMETHING to the legendary life of 007. This week, film #23 takes a little bit of everything that makes the Bond series great and rolls it up into a perfect holiday package called “Skyfall.”

A member of a terrorist organization has stolen a hard drive from a secured lap top. The hard drive contains the true names of every undercover NATO agent in the world and their release. Tracked down by MI6 agent James Bond, the baddie runs, soon finding himself in a motorcycle chase. Across the tile roofs of the city. As the chase continues on top of a high speed train, Bond’s partner in espionage, Eve (Naomie Harris) takes aim at the two on top of the train through the scope of her rifle. Afraid to shoot for fear of hitting Bond she is snapped back to reality by the stern voice of M (Dench) in her earpiece, commanding her to “take the shot!” Cue the opening credits.

After the step back that was 2008’s “Quantum of Solace” (though in defense of the film it should be noted that, due to the writer’s strike, a completed script was never delivered), Bond and all the members of Her Majesty’s Secret Service return in a film that skillfully balances the old school workings of past 007 adventures with the futuristic world of 21st century cyber terrorism. From the title song, performed in the style of the great Shirley Bassey by this generations great songstress, Adele, to the reintroduction of Q to a ride in the classic Aston Martin DB5 from “Goldfinger,” there is plenty in “Skyfall” to take fans down memory lane. The great reminders of the present day begin with Daniel Craig. In my review of “Casino Royale” I noted that his performance was exactly the way I imagined when I read the original Ian Flemming novels. While Sean Connery will always be the first (and the best) Bond, in the span of three films Craig has made the character his own. I would not want to be the actor to assume the role from him 15 years from now (Craig just turned 44 – Roger Moore was 57 when he did his last Bond film, “A View to a Kill”). Also strong are two Oscar winners – Dench as 007’s boss, M, and Bardem as Silva, a former MI6 agent seeking revenge on M for what he feels was her betrayal. With a head of bleached blonde hair Bardem seems to be channeling Raul Julia from “The Adams Family.” But in a really creepy way that makes him one of the most memorable villains in the series history.

Action-wise the film is among the best of the year. While director Mendes is best known for intense and personal dramas (“Revolutionary Road,” “American Beauty” for which he won the Best Director Oscar) he has also shown some flair for action and pacing in the past, most notably with “Road To Perdition,” the film that really introduced Craig to American audiences. As Bond makes his way across the globe the action follows, including a fierce hand to hand battle high above Shanghai, illuminated only by the constant neon glow of the skyscraper lights, a scene that is one of the highlights captured by cinematographer Roger Deakins, a long time collaborator with the Coen Brothers.

A film that’s right up there with “Casino Royale” (no wagering, please) I am pleased to say that from a scale of zero to five stars I give “Skyfall” *****

NCM^® Fathom Events, More2Screen and EuroArts Music bring the magic of Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday ballet, “The Nutcracker,” to life on the big screen for the first time in stunning 3-D in select theaters with RealD™ 3D technology. “The Nutcracker Mariinsky Ballet” on Monday, Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m., with special matinee screenings in select theaters, was pre-recorded at the historic Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg in December 2011 where the original Nutcracker first made its debut 120 years ago in 1892. This special cinematic holiday event will draw audiences into the performance on stage, taking them on a magical journey with Clara, her Nutcracker, exquisite dancers and toy soldiers.

“The Nutcracker Mariinsky Ballet” tickets are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change). This special holiday presentation will be broadcast to more than 500 select movie theaters through NCM’s exclusiveDigital Broadcast Network and also via the new digital cinema projection systems.

The ballet opens with a Christmas Eve party and a young girl, Clara, being given a nutcracker doll by her godfather, Drosselmeyer. Later in the evening when Clara sleeps, she finds herself in the midst of the Nutcracker’s battle against the Mouse King and his army of mice. Coming to Clara’s aid, the Nutcracker is transformed into a Prince and journeys with her to an enchanted island where spectacular celebrations are held in their honor.

This production showcases the impeccable virtuosity of two of the Mariinsky Theatre’s rising stars – Alina Somova as Clara(Masha in the original Russian ballet) and Vladimir Shklyarov as the Nutcracker. EuroArts Music International filmed “The Nutcracker” in 3-D for this cinematic event.

Under the leadership of General and Artistic Director and renowned conductor, Valery Gergiev, the Mariinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg, Russia was the first ballet company to embrace 3-D technology with the theatrical release of “Giselle in 3D” in 2011, distributed worldwide by More2Screen, and NCM Fathom Events in the U.S.

“The Mariinsky Theatre is one of the world’s leading opera and ballet companies with a far–reaching global profile,” said Gergiev. “Through ground–breaking projects like ‘The Nutcracker in 3-D,’ produced to the same exacting standards for the big screen as for the stage, we are able to share our beautiful productions with many more people worldwide.”

The Mariinsky Theatre was the original home to Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” in 1892, when it made its worldwide debut, and this brand-new version in both 2-D and 3-D marks the 120^th anniversary year of the ballet.

“Attending ‘The Nutcracker’ ballet each year is a long-standing holiday tradition for many families across the world,” said Shelly Maxwell, executive vice president of NCM Fathom Events. “With Tchaikovsky’s eternally popular score, the grand staging and exquisite costumes, this Mariinsky Theatre production of ‘The Nutcracker’ in movie theaters will be a unique way to experience this beloved classic.”

About National CineMedia (NCM)

NCM operates NCM Media Networks, a leading integrated media company reaching U.S. consumers in movie theaters, online and through mobile technology.  The NCM Cinema Network and NCM Fathom Events present cinema advertising and events across the nation’s largest digital in-theater network, comprised of theaters owned by AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) and other leading regional theater circuits. NCM’s theater advertising network covers 183 Designated Market Areas® (49 of the top 50) and includes over 19,300 screens (over 18,400 digital). During 2011, approximately 680 million patrons (on an annualized basis) attended movies shown in theaters in which NCM currently has exclusive, cinema advertising agreements in place.  The NCM Fathom Events live digital broadcast network (“DBN”) is comprised of over 720 locations in 170 Designated Market Areas® (including all of the top 50). The NCM Interactive Networkoffers 360-degree integrated marketing opportunities in combination with cinema, encompassing 41 entertainment-related websites, online widgets and mobile applications.  National CineMedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: NCMI) owns a 48.6% interest in and is the managing member of National CineMedia LLC. For more information, visit www.ncm.com or www.FathomEvents.com.

About More2Screen

More2Screen is the UK’s leading distributor of alternative content events with more than six years of experience acquiring and distributing world–class opera, ballet, music concerts, theatre and special event films to cinemas across the globe. New content is being added to a fast–growing portfolio on a regular basis and productions released internationally include 2D/3D LIVE and recorded formats. www.more2screen.com

About The Mariinsky Theatre

The Mariinsky Theatre, (formerly the Kirov), is one of the leading opera and ballet companies in the world. Its origins date back to the 18th century and its founder Catherine the Great. As the Imperial Mariinsky Theatre, it was the most famous ensemble of the Tsarist Empire and its history is interwoven with many ballet greats including Rudolf Nureyev, Vaslav Nijinksy, Anna Pavlova, and Michel Fokine. The Mariinsky Theatre is enjoying a second golden age under the dynamic, forward–thinking leadership of General and Artistic Director, Valery Gergiev. www.mariinsky.ru/en orwww.mariinsky.us

Created by: Robert Hamner, David Karp
Starring: James Stewart
Distributed: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 588 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When I think about Christmas, I can’t help it but think about Jimmy Stewart in “It’s a Wonderful Life”. With the holidays just around the corner, I am excited to get a chance to check out a maybe lesser-known collection of work from Mr. Stewart. I think I can listen to his voice for hours, especially later in his career. There is nothing like it. Jimmy Stewart is perfectly cast as the slow-drawling Southern lawyer Billy Jim Hawkin. This mystery TV series aired for one season on CBS from 1973 and 1974 and was created by Robert Hamner and David Karp. Even though it was cancelled after one season Jimmy Stewart ended up winning a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in Television Drama Series. If you are a fan of his work, this is a must purchase!

This 4-disc set consists of an eight film collection including “Death and the Maiden”, “Murder in Movieland”, “Die, Darling, Die”, “A Life For a Life”, “Blood Feud”, “Murder and the Slave Trade”, “Murder on the 13th Floor” and “Candidate for Murder”. There is something special about watching these classic TV movie adaptions.  “Hawkins” used to air during The New CBS Tuesday Night Movies back in the day. I think if they gave this show a bit of a chance it could have been the a very long running and successful series. He reminds me a pre-dated “Monk”. Each film stands alone and delivers some classic murder mystery. This is the first time that this has ever been released on DVD, thanks to Warner Archive. This release is presented in 4X3 full frame with the its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio track is the original mono audio, which works perfectly within the legalese dialogue.

Official Synopsis: A decade before TV saw another silver-haired, slow-drawling Southern shyster with a knack for sleuthing out the truth, M-G-M welcomed back two titanic talents, TV producer Norman Felton and screen legend Jimmy Stewart, for Hawkins. Stewart played Billy Jim Hawkins in rotation with the Shaft TV movies (Talk about Country Mouse and City Mouse!), solving crimes alongside his cousin RJ (Strother Martin) and a bevy of sensational costars. Bonnie Bedelia plays a troubled young woman accused of familicide, Cameron Mitchell plays a tinseltown spouse facing murder charges, Julie Harris plays an accused mercy killer, William Windom plays a parent with a vendetta, Lew Ayres and James Best play folk caught up in a deadly Civil War re-enactment, James Luisi plays a football pro caught up in foul play, Teresa Wright plays an ex-amour of Bill Jim’s, and Paul Burke and Pernell Roberts play a senator and aide caught up in a slaying.

Starring: Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Keenen Ivory Wayans, Kim Wayans, Vivica A. Fox, Omar Epps
Director: Paris Barclay
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Echo Bridge Home Entertainment
Release Date: July 5, 2011
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

When this film was released back in 1996 (can’t believe it’s been 16 years) I was draw to this film just for the title. Then I found out that the Wayans Brothers were behind it and I was hooked. I was a huge fan of “In Living Color” and was looking for the next best thing. This film was surly it. I still to this day can recite this film from beginning to end. In the early days of the internet back in ’96 I used to watch this trailer over and over and yet there are funny parts still in the film, which is rare these days. With the Wayans Brothers returning to theaters this January with “A Haunted House”, this is a great time to revisit this great spoofs from the creators of “Scary Movie”. I should also note that Echo Bridge did a solid by also releasing this film in its director’s cut. Should I also add that I still have this soundtrack on cassette? Too late.

Official Premise: From the creator of TV’s “In Living Color,” this outrageous comedy hit had critics and audiences roaring with laughter! From block parties and beepers to high tops and high-powered weapons, it’s everything that’s funny about growing up in the ‘hood…the Wayans Brothers’ neighborhood, that is! Marlon, Shawn (TV’s The Wayans Brothers) and Keenen Ivory Wayans (TV’s In Living Color) get together and deliver a series of hilarious situations that all move to a hot hit soundtrack! Get ready for a good time, because there are plenty of laughs in this neighborhood!

This release looks surprisingly damn good on Blu-ray, even though it is only presented in 1080i resolution. The audio track makes up for it though with a solid DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The special features aren’t jam packed but hey, at least there are special features included. There is a short deleted scene called “Interrogation”. There is a very sort featurettes called “Wayans Brothers Behind the Scenes”, which is just the brothers chatting about the film. “Hood Movie Gumbo” is more behind-the-scenes with cast and crew mixed with film clips, but it is just too short. Lastly there is a music video for “All the Things Your Man Won’t Do”. What I find odd is that the special features are in full 1080p, when the film is only 1080i. For the cheap price though this is a must have for fans of the Wayans Brothers.

Rick Alverson is the director of the film “The Comedy”.  The film stars Tim Heidecker, known best for “Tim and Eric’s Awesome Show, Great Job!” & “Tom Goes to Mayor”, taking on his first dramatic role. Rick took out some time to chat with Media Mikes about the film and its serious underlying themes.

Mike Gencarelli: Your new film is called “The Comedy” but tell us about the serious themes underlying in the film?
Rick Alverson: The initial plan was to make a film about desensitization. It was a movie about the desire for an idiosyncratic and creative interaction with language and people. An idea of flirtation with the world, antagonism, desire to both connect and potentially irate or change or alter the world or be altered by it. There is a lot of underlying interest in inertness and mortality. Yeah, it is all there [laughs].

MG: How did you end up working with Tim Heidecker with his first dramatic role?
RA: Tim has a very unique set of skills. He has this capacity for a very particular kind of social engagement that I knew would, and did, work very well for the role. He was kind enough to come in, since we did not know each other prior. He saw my previous film “New Jerusalem” and him and Eric were interested in my work after that. We managed to portray Swanson in a way that is very volatile and most importantly ambiguous. It lightly straddles the line between the passive and the antagonistic and between humor and pathos, I suppose.

MG: The film still has some unsettling moments, were you concerned about offending?
RA: Well, that was impulse of the project. It is about the desire of an individual to push envelopes and to activate, whether it is disgust, it is pity or anything. There is a perfect parallel between the way the movie should act on an audience and the way the character acts on the other characters in the film. There is a symbiotic nature between the form and the content that way. It is strange to me how some individuals have been repelled by the movie, which actually isn’t a bad response. I would think to be repulsed by something would mean that it is serving a kind of larger purpose. I think, as American mainstream film-goers  we are used to being playcated and self-affirmed by our entertainment. We would our entertainment to do a very specific thing. We have been conditioned for that. Literally when that entertainment fucks with us, we get angry. This is a very gulf between what some people describe as the institutions of fine art and the mass-marketable, consumable enterprise of commodity entertainment. People go into museums to be perplexed. People go to theaters to be massaged. I think that needs to be shaken up a bit.

MG: This film kind of sticks with you after viewing; was that your intention?
RA: That is what I got to see movies for. If I am going to spend my time and money in something it should change me. It is worth you money that way. It is funny how people go into movies that advertise recreational escape and expect to have a good time.

MG: Tell us about the production; what was your most challenging aspect?
RA: Well, working against New York City. I mean with trying to work with a landscape that is so emblazed and cauterized in our mind as this particular place. I had to figure out how to literally film in that place and do it justice and respect, while at the same time not to be redundant. That was quite a challenge. I think the other challenge – probably the biggest challenge was finding those particular notes and walking that tight rope between the engagement of the thing and the dystopian kind of awfulness of the things, like the antagonism, cruelty, disrespect and obscenity. How do you do two or three things at once while making it palatable to the characters and also palatable to the audiences if the film was couched as a comedy entirely. Also how to also show some real distance where we recognize that as uncomfortable facts. I don’t know but it is a real tight rope to walk. People love to go to movies and to hate the bad guys and love the good guys. I think that it doesn’t help anyone outside the theater and we should likely be the other way around sometimes.

MG: Tell us about what you have planned next after “The Comedy”?
RA: I am making a movie called “Clement” that takes place in 1868. It deals with the early clan and freedmen communities in rural Virginia. It is kind of an anti-epic cruelty tale. It is something that looks at the literal root causes of the dystopian world that we see in “The Comedy”.

Related Content

• Interview with Raymond J. Barry
• Tony Zierra talks about directing “My Big Break”
• Michaelbrent Collings talks about writing WWE’s “Barricade”
• Interview with Michelle Danner
• Jason Christopher talks about slasher “Nobody Gets Out Alive” and upcoming “Monsters Within”

Directed by: Larry Jackson
Narrated by: Orson Welles
Starring: Bob Clampett, Tex Avery, Friz Freleng
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 91 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When it comes to Bugs Bunny and Looney Tunes, I have been a life-long fan. This film is not your typical Looney Tunes special.  It is a documentary, hosted by animator Bob Clampett with interviews with Friz Freleng and Tex Avery.  This is also narrated by legendary director Orson Welles.  It includes nine Looney Tunes/Merrie Melodies cartoons which were previously released during the 1940s.  This is a must for any Looney Tunes fans.

The shorts included are “What’s Cookin’ Doc? (1944)”, “The Wild Hare (1940)”, “A Corny Concerto (1943)”, “I Taw a Putty Tat (1948)”, “Rhapsody Rabbit (1946)”, “Walky Talky Hawky (1946)”,  “My Favorite Duck (1942)”, Hair-Raising Hare (1946)” and “The Old Grey Hare (1944)”

This is the first time that this has ever been released on DVD, thanks to Warner Archive. This release is presented in 4X3 full frame with the its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio track is the original mono audio, which works perfectly. Surprisingly  there is actually some decent special features including a commentary track from director Larry Jackson and an image gallery with behind-the-scenes photos.

Official Premise: What was it like to work in Termite Terrace, birthplace of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and a veritable horde of cartoon icons? Get a taste of that crazy and creative fun factory in this loving and droll documentary, hosted by ace animator Bob Clampett. Featuring interviews with fellow Termite Terrace residents Friz Freleng and Tex Avery and narrated by Orson Welles, Bugs Bunny Superstar includes nine complete cartoons that are prime examples of the collaborative efforts of Warner cartoonists, ink-and-painters, effects artists and others. “No idea was too outrageous,” Clampett says. Seeing rare home movies of the animators as they act out ideas adds to that sense of unrestrained creativity.

Related Content

• Blu-ray Review “Kung Fu Panda Holiday Special”
• Blu-ray Review “DreamWorks Holiday Classics”
• Blu-ray Review “The Best of Little Rascals in 3D”
• Blu-ray Review “Pixar Short Films Collection: Vol. 2”
• 3D Blu-ray Review “Brave”

Actors: Travis Pastrana, Tommy Passemante, Jolene Van Vugt, Jeremy Rawle, Jim DeChamp
Directors: Gregg Godfrey, Jeremy Rawle
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Arc Entertainment
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

Based on the MTV reality stunt series, “Nitro Circus: The Movie” takes the death-defying exploits of a gang of outrageous daredevils onto a bigger scale and also into the third-dimension. The 3D in the film is insane and this film really took advantage of the format. The film has heart as well as death-defying stunts. Travis Pastrana is today’s Evel Knievel and it is surprised he is still alive. The show is channeling its inner-Jackass but it takes it to a whole new level. In “Jackass”, the show is set to fail for laughs. These stunts need to succeed otherwise the people will most likely me killed. This film comes with warning and it should cause I literally was cringing throughout. Don’t try this at home kids…but be sure not to miss this either.

Official Premise: Travis Pastrana and his tightly knit, highly skilled, adrenaline-addicted friends bring their insane and hysterical adventures to the big screen, Dreaming up the most dangerous stunts in the world of action sports – whether back-flipping a bike between two 60-story buildings or going air-born to destroy their friends in a life size, high-speed game of Freedom Flyers — Pastrana and his gang are always at it. High Risk. High Octane. No Safety Nets Allowed.

This release from Arc Entertainment is a super three-disc combo pack including a 3D Blu-ray, a standard Blu-ray and a DVD of this film. So you watch it wherever you are and under any circumstance. I highly recommend viewing this in 3D, it is really the way to go for sure. I hope that Arc Entertainment is planning on releasing more 3D Blu-rays since this one is a big thumbs up. The 1080p transfer looks quite good for a stunt-based film. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works perfectly with the broken bones and stunt effects, as well as the music.

The special features are decent overall. The back of the box cover though doesn’t list properly all the extras. There is an interview with Steve-O from “Jackass”. There are two behind-the-scenes featurettes focusing on “Gregg’s Car Roll” and “Roner’s Pond Skim”.  Both are highly recommend for an more detailed look into those skits. There are about seven minutes of deleted scenes, which equals to just more crazy stunts. There is also a sponsors spot for “All Season Long” and a trailer included.

Directed by: Tim Johnson
Starring: Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, David Cross, Lucy Liu, James Hong
Jack McBrayer, Dan Fogler
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Dreamworks Animated
Release Date: November 6, 2012
Run Time: 25 minutes

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

Firstly, I am stumped that this short was not included on “Dreamworks Holiday Classics” release. As a stand-alone release, I really think that it is a toss-up to purchase unless you are a really hardcore “Kung Fu Panda” fan. What is good about this short though is that it brings back ALL of the original voice cast. It also doesn’t specifically focus on Christmas, it keeps it on a generic holiday angle so it is available to a more wide-audience. When it comes down to it though, this is a fun short for the whole family that will make you smile and get in the mood for the holiday season!

Official Premise: In this hilarious action adventure, Master Shifu calls on Po to host the year’s biggest event – the Winter Feast, a special time of the year to celebrate family, tradition and the awesomeness of Kung Fu! Po and the Furious Five must team up to throw the best celebration the Valley of Peace has ever seen. Can Po pull off the perfect party, impress his heroes, and discover the true meaning of the Winter Feast?

“Kung Fu Panda Holiday Special” looks stunning on Blu-ray in its super sharp 1080p transfer. It also packs a really impressive Dolby TrueHD 7.1 surround track. Dreamworks did not cheap out on this at all. The special features are aimed at kids and are decent. There are various interactive features including “Learn to Draw Wo Hop”, “Kung Fu Panda Holiday Shuffle”, “Mr. Ping’s Noodle House” and “How to Use Chopticks”. I was hoping for a little more since this release just includes the 25 minute short but like I said decent overall.

Starring: Mike Myers, Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, Antonio Banderas
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Dreamworks Animated
Release Date: October 30, 2012
Run Time: 85 minutes

Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

Christmas is right around the corner and “DreamWorks Holiday Classics” is the second compilation release after last months “DreamWorks Spooky Stories”. This release includes five Christmas-themed shorts, including “Shrek the Halls”, “The Madagascar Penguins in a Christmas Caper”, “Merry Madagascar”, “Donkey’s Christmas Shrektacular” and “Dragons: Gift of the Night Fury”. Though missing from this release is the previously released “Madagascar” short “Party With The Penguins”.  Also Dreamworks also released “Kung Fu Panda Holiday”, which could have been included in this release easily. Nonetheless, these Dreamworks shorts really bring the Christmas spirit and are just downright right.   If you own these shorts previously though, I wouldn’t say that they are worth the purchase but if you don’t the HD upgrade is worth it.

Official Premise: “Dragons: Gift of the Night Fury”: The Dragons are back in the exciting next chapter to the Academy Award-nominated film, “How to Train Your Dragon”. The epic story of Hiccup and Toothless continues as they take flight in a thrilling adventure to discover an island of ever-before-seen dragons. “Merry Madagascar”: When Santa and his reindeer crash onto the island of Madagascar, it’s up to Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melman and those wacky Penguins to save Christmas. Get ready for a sleigh full of laughs in this hilarious holiday classic. Also includes “The Penguins of Madagascar in a Christmas Caper”. “Shrek the Halls”: After promising Fiona and the kids a Christmas they’ll remember, Shrek is forced to take a crash course in the holiday. But just when he thinks he has everything for a quiet family Christmas just right, Donkey, Puss in Boots, Gingy and the rest of the gang decide to crash the party. “Shrek the Halls” is the greatest holiday tale that’s never been told until now. Also includes “Donkey’s Caroling Christmas-tacular”.

This release is delivered as a Blu-ray + DVD combo pack. The 1080p transfers looks amazing on each short. The colors are perfect and super crisp. The star of the release though is the Dolby True HD 7.1 track for “Dragons: Gift of the Night Fury” and “Donkey’s Caroling Christmas-tacular”. I was very impressed with these. The rest of the films include Dolby TrueHD 5.1 tracks, which are also stunning. The downfall though is that there is only one special feature included on this release, which is a sing-along version for “Donkey’s Caroling Christmas-tacular”. Lastly there is also some previews for additional DreamWorks titles.

Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Disney-Pixar
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Run Time: 75 minutes

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

When it comes to Disney/Pixar, the Award-winning studio behind Toy Story 3, Up and WALL•E, they are the best when it comes to short films.  I get to the theater early for everyone of their films just to catch the shorts.  This Blu-ray release includes 12 short films, which are together for the very first time.  Obviously, this is the second volume of shorts and is a real step up from volume one.  The first volume includes the classics but these include some of my personal favorites.  If you are a fan of these shorts, then this a must purchase to get all these shorts in one place.

The following shorts included are “Your Friend the Rat” (2007). “Presto” (2008), “BURN-E” (2008), “Partly Cloudy” (2009), “Dug’s Special Mission” (2009), “George & A.J. (2009), “Day & Night” (2010), “Toy Story Toons: Hawaiian Vacation” (2011), “Cars Toons: Air Mater” (2011), “Toy Story Toons: Small Fry” (2011), “La Luna” (2011) and “Cars Toons: Time Travel Mater” (2012).

“BURN•E” is based on characters from “WALL•E”. “Dug’s Special Mission” and George & AJ” are both inspired from “Up”. “Air Mater” and “Time Travel Mater” are from “Cars Toons” featuring Mater. “Your Friend The Rat” features Remy and Emile from “Ratatouille”. The last two that are related to a franchise are  “Toy Story Toons” including “Hawaiian Vacation”, which was shown in front of “Cars 2” and “Small Fry”, which was shown in front of “The Muppets”. Original shorts included are Day & Night was shown before “Toy Story 3”. La Luna is the newest and was just shown in front of “Brave”. “Partly Cloudy” was shown before “Up”. “Presto” was shown before “WALL-E”. These areall previously on the respective Blu-ray/DVD releases. This is the first time that the shorts “George & AJ”, “Small Fry” and “Time Travel Mater” have ever been released on Blu-ray/DVD.

This release comes as a combo pack including both a Blu-ray and DVD included. There are several commentary tracks, as well as introductions for the shorts included. But the real draw for this release besides the shorts themselves are seven rarely seen student films from John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton and Pete Docter. These are worth the purchase of the disc alone. The student films that are included are “Nitemare”, “The Lady & The Lamp”, “Somewhere in the Arctic”, “A Story”, “Winter”, “Palm Springs” and “Next Door”. These just show where these creative geniuses have come from and how far they have come since their early days.

Travis Van Winkle is the co-star in the new horror/thriller “247°F” with Tyler Mane and Scout Taylor-Compton. Travis is also known for his work in “Transformers” and “Friday the 13th” remake. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Travis about his new movie and also got a tip on his new pilot with Michael Bay called “The Last Ship”.

Mike Gencarelli: Can you tell us how you got involved with “247°F”?
Travis Van Winkle: I got a call one day from the casting director to see if I wanted to fly to Georgia. I think one of their guys had fallen out and my friend Michael Copon who is also in the film mentioned my name. They looked at my stuff and I got a call the next day

MG: What was it about the role that made you want to get involved?
TVW: As soon as I found out what it was about I figured I could handle sitting in a sauna for 3 weeks with pretty women in their underwear.

MG: How was it working with Tyler Mane and Scout Taylor-Compton?
TVW: It was great! They are great people. It’s really nice to work on a project with great actors. Those guys are wonderful human beings.

MG: Do you have any stories from shooting?
TVW: I remember sitting in a room that was not hot. It was just a stale cold room. Before each take they would spray us with baby oil and cold water. That didn’t really help us with the scene where we were supposed to appear hot. The physicality that happened in there was pretty intense. There was glass that would not break, I slammed my finger at one point and then I had to lift that furnace. Those scenes are fun as an actor. I told the director I was going big and if he had to bring me down he could.

MG: What do you enjoy most about working in the horror genre?
TVW: We all feel pain however in real life you don’t get the chance to go to extremes where your thrown on a hay bale spike or pick up a hot furnace. We don’t get a chance to do a lot of these intense things. To be able to create and do these types of things is fun. It’s almost like an accentuated version of life most people don’t get to experience. It is quite a ride!  You don’t know how the hell you are going to do these things because it has never happened! As an actor it’s fun to think and explore how you would react in certain situations.

MG: What’s your preference between shooting TV and movies?
TVW: I love working since that’s where it’s at. Films have your for however many days where you just hammer things out. You get a chance to explore with a film as you are asked to improv more. The directors I have worked with in film have wanted me to just play and play. When it comes to TV there is more of a structure. A lot of writers are producers and they want their lines said. I understand and respect that. There are just different formats for each one. They are equally rewarding and satisfying. As an actor they are both playgrounds.

MG: Can you tell us about your upcoming television pilot?
TVW: Michael Bay has TV series on TNT titled “The Last Ship”. We just finished shooting the pilot but I am not sure how much I call really say anything more than that right now. 

Related Content

• Interview with Chris Metzler
• Xavier Gens talks about directing “The Divide”
• Joe Turkel talks about Stanley Kubrick, “The Shining” & “Blade Runner”
• Traci Lords talks about new film “Excision” and album “M2F2”
• Jim Cliffe talks about his first feature “Donovan’s Echo”

Steven Seagal is an action movie superstar, martial artist, musician and even deputy police officer. He is teaming with with Steven Austin in his new film “Maximum Conviction”.   Media Mikes had a chance to ask Steven a few quick questions about the new film, as well as law enforcement, his music and the rumors of “The Expendables 3”.

Mike Gencarelli: How did you end up teaming with Steve Austin for “Maximum Conviction”?
Steven Seagal: My team offered it to me and I liked the story. So I decided to try it. I loved working with Steve and it would be my pleasure to do it again if the opportunity arose. He is a gentleman and a great guy.

MG: What do you think it takes to make an effective action film today and how it has changed since films like “Above the Law”?
SS: Nowadays they have millions of dollars, special effects and wires. The old style you don’t see very much anymore. It is all special photography, special effects and stuff like that.

MG: You’ve taken on the role of producer and writing on most of your projects, tell about how you ended up producing this film?
SS: I produce almost everything that I do. On this project, Steve got in on it with executive producing and that was cool with me.

MG: Loved your role in “Machete”;  tell us about your reuniting with Danny Trejo in “Forces of Execution”?
SS: Danny has been a friend of mine for 25 years. I love the guy. He is my brother and I love to work with him on whatever we can.

MG: Now that season two has completed for Reelz Channel’s “True Justice”, is there a third planned?
SS: There is no word yet but we are just waiting to see what is going to happen. So, I am waiting just like you.

MG: What ever happened to season three of “Steven Seagal: Lawman”?
SS: Well what happened is that A&E got paranoid since the Obama administration was suing a party close to the show. So in their great courage, they put everything on hold.

MG: What is the most important skill do you think that all law enforcement officers need?
SS: That is like asking what is the best gun for all purposes. You need a different gun for different situations. In terms of a police officer in general, one of the most important things is to have great people skills and understand who you are talking to. Trying to make the community understand that we are their brothers and we are there to protect them. Conversely  there are other elements for super consciousness when it comes to going into any situation that can be potentially dangerous. Also how you can have a panoramic awareness that is also extremely important.

MG: Been listening to your CD “Mojo Priest” since 2007, can we expect a new album soon?
SS: It is half finished right now. I am embarrassed to say it is not done yet. But I am hoping to get to it soon. I am just crazy right now trying to get out there and start swinging. The economy is crazy right now and everything is crazy right now. So it has taken the back burner unfortunately.

MG: Can you address any rumors of you joining the planned “The Expendables 3”?
SS: I will not be involved with that project.

Related Content

• Alexander Newton talks about film “Justice/Vengeance”
• Danny Trejo talks about “Machete Kills” & “Ranchero”
• Director Tony Kaye talks about New Film “Detachment”
• Interview with Malcolm McDowell
• World Champion Magician, Lance Burton talks about his work on “Oz The Great and Powerful”