Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Starring: Phil Harris, Eva Gabor, Scatman Crothers, Sterling Holloway, Dean Clark
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 78 minutes

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

“The Aristocats” is the last animated film to be graced by the late Walt Disney’s blessing.  It is definitely a different kind of Disney classic but still a classic nonetheless.  If you go to France at Walt Disney World’s Epcot, you can still meet Marie in the country.  I am not sure if kids know who she is but maybe not the line with be a little longer.  Disney did a really great job of restoration this film.  The film is over 40 years old and even though it doesn’t look like it was made yesterday, it still looks good and has a certain charm about it.  I can’t wait to sit down and watch this film with my daughter (now only 3 months old).  Fans of Disney should definitely pick up this title quickly before they usher it back into the vault. I mean who doesn’t love swingin’ jazz cats who save the day?

This isn’t the only film released out of the vault though. Besides this film, August 21st saw the release seven animated films over five different Blu-ray, including “The Aristocats”, “The Rescuers & The Rescuers Down Under”, “Pocahontas & Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” and “The Tigger Movie”. Disney if you are reading this, I still want to see a Blu-ray release for films like “Robin Hood” and “The Sword in the Stone”…(hint-hint). This release also includes a little bonus of a digital download of “The Aristocats: Disney Classics Storybook” app on iPhone. Definitely taking advantage of that bonus.

“The Aristocats” was restored to Blu-ray with a whole lot of Disney magic.  It’s 1080p video transfer couldn’t look anymore better, especially for its age. The forty-two-year old animation and hand-painted backgrounds are still sharp and very colorful. Diney’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track sounds just as amazing as the film looks.  The songs, the music, the jazzy feel for the film is just leaking out of this track and really gets your feet kicking.

The special features are decent as well and a bunch are even in HD.  “The Lost Open”  is a storyboarded deleted scene that features a cut character and song introduced by “Aristocats” songwriter Richard M. Sherman. There is a a second deleted song included as well called, “She Never Felt Alone.” “The Sherman Brothers: The Aristocats of Disney Songs” is an all-too brief  look at the Shermans’ contributions to “The Aristocats”. There is a sing-along version of the film with the lyrics in a subtitle track.  There is also a Classic Song Selection with four sing-along songs from the film. There is a music Video for “Oui Oui Marie,” a skipping-record Aristocats remix by D!tto. There is a retro 1956 Animated Special Excerpt called “The Great Cat Family,” hosted by Walt Disney.  Lastly there is bonus classic Walt Disney short called “Bath Day,” featuring Minnie Mouse and Figaro.

Directors: Darrell Rooney, Jeannine Roussel
Starring: Scott Wolf, Alyssa Milano, Chazz Palminteri, Jeff Bennett, Jodi Benson, Bill Fagerbakke
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 69 minutes

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

When it comes to Disney’s direct-to-video titles, I give them a certain leniency since they are good for what they deliver. They don’t trump the previous films in quality but they also don’t try to either. “Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure” delivers a very fun and cute film that is filled with colorful characters and non-stop songs. This story picks up with Lady and Tramp’s mischievous pup, Scamp (Scott Wolf), who runs away after getting fed up with rules and restrictions and longs for a wild and free lifestyle. It is notable to say that this film does have some great voice talent including Scott Wolf, Alyssa Milano, Chazz Palminteri, and Disney voice legend Jodi Benson. Fans of “Lady and the Tramp” and the Disney animation will enjoy this release but it is definitely aimed to please the kiddies.

This isn’t the only film released out of the vault though. Besides this film, August 21st saw the release seven animated films over five different Blu-ray, including “The Aristocats”, “The Rescuers & The Rescuers Down Under”, “Pocahontas & Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” and “The Tigger Movie”. Disney if you are reading this, I still want to see a Blu-ray release for films like “Robin Hood” and “The Sword in the Stone”…(hint-hint).

Disney released this film as a two-disc set, including a Blu-ray disc and a DVD disc. “Scamp’s Adventure” looks beautiful on Blu0ray with its 1080p video transfer. Even for its standard direct-to-video Disney sequel, it looks just as good as theatrical features. Same goes for its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. Even though the songs are not the best, they still sound amazing.

The special features are impressive as well. Firstly we have an audio commentary with director Darrell Rooney, animation director Steve Trenbirth and co-director/producer Jeannine Roussel, which is worth checking out for parents. “From Tramp to Scamp” is the only extras presented in standard definition. IT is a making-of feature that runs just under 20 minutes and is a pretty in depth look a the production. There is a cute pop-up animal fact trivia track aimed for kids as well as five songs delivered with karaoke-style subtitles. Lastly (and my favorite) there are three classic Walt Disney Shorts in HD “Pluto Junior,” “Bone Trouble” and “Pluto’s Kid Brother.”

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Director: Jun Falkenstein
Starring: Jim Cummings, Nikita Hopkins, Ken Sansom, John Fiedler, Peter Cullen, Andre Stojka
Narrator: John Hurt
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 77 minutes

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

When it comes to anything to do with Winnie the Pooh and his friends at the 100 acre woods immediately count me in.  I remember seeing this film in the theaters 12 years ago.  This film took Tigger as his sets out looking through the hundred-acre-wood to find his family. I thought it was cute then but I absolutely loved it now.  Maybe it was the fact that I was watching it with my 3 month old daughter who was having a blast, especially whenever Eeyore came on the screen.  Maybe it was the stunning Blu-ray presentation from Disney.  Also if anyone is watching with kids, I would recommend pausing the film since it comes with a wonderful intermission presentation.  Pausing a movie has never been more fun with cute interactive activities for kids to enjoy during bathroom or sneak break.  I think every kids film should have something like this… brilliant!

This isn’t the only film released out of the vault though. Besides this film, August 21st saw the release seven animated films over five different Blu-ray, including “The Aristocats”, “Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure”, “The Rescuers & The Rescuers Down Under” and “Pocahontas & Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World”. Disney if you are reading this, this would have also been a great time to bring other similar titles like “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh”, “Piglet’s Big Movie” and “Pooh’s Heffalump Movie” to Blu-ray as well (hint-hint)…just sayin’.  Overall all Disney fans should definitely not miss this release. Can I stress definitely not to miss?

This Blu-ray is being released as a two-disc set including the Blu-ray and also a DVD copy of the film.  Like I mentioned, “The Tigger Movie” looks absolutely stunning on Blu-ray and completely trumps its past DVD releases.  It’s 1080p video transfer is very bright and colorful, I have never seen the hundred acre woods look some fantastic and its inhabitants. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio surround track works really well, especially with the film’s songs.  Overall it is just “fun, fun, fun, fun, fun” in the words of Tigger.

The special features though are a good but just a bit of a let down, even though they were at least presented in HD.  “A Tigger Tale” is a short roundtable with the filmmakers chatting about Winnie the Pooh, his friends and the development of the this feature. “Mini Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” include ten Winnie the Pooh mini-movies narrated by John Cleese.  But for those that don’t realize they are actually just re-used scenes from “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and “The Tigger Movie”.  Lastly there is a Sing-Along Song for “Round My Family Tree,” as sung by Tigger and a Music Video for “Your Heart Will Lead You Home,” by Kenny Loggins.

Directed by: Mladen Djordjevic
Starring: Mihajlo Jovanovic, Ana Acimovic, Predrag Damnjanovic, Radivoj Knezevic
MPAA Rating: NR
Distributed by: Synapse Films
Release Date: August 14, 2012
Running Time: 113 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Synapse Films is known best for delivering really great cult classic genre films, which all are beautifully presented on Blu-ray. This Serbian shocker film was more an acquisition, it is also the first film that I regret watching. Now I knew exactly what I was getting myself into prior to watching this but it didn’t make it any easier to swallow (no pun intended…well maybe some). As it is stated this film is definitely not for the faint of heart or easily offended. I am neither of those and yet I still had trouble with this film. Also the running time of almost two hours is just way to long. It might have worked better within a quick 80 minutes. Though if you are a fan of films like “A Serbian Film”, then you might want to check this out.

Premise: “During the final days of Slobodan Miloševic’s Serbian rule, a young film student named Marko becomes desperate to make a feature film. Finally getting a job as an adult film director, he quickly runs afoul of the mob and needs to get out of town fast! Assembling a traveling group of misfits into a “porno cabaret,” Marko and his new friends drive though the quiet countryside in a beat-up van performing live sex acts for peasants and farmers. But life is hard on the road, and they find it hard to earn enough money to survive.”

The Blu-ray presentation looks good enough even though it was shot to look homemade. Like most films from Synapse Films, this comes with a reversible artwork which the flip side is graphic. The special features are impressive and include some decent extras. “Made in Serbia” is a 101 minute feature length documentary focusing on the Serbian adult film industry. There is featurette focusing on the “Making of” this film, as well as some deleted scenes (which were rightfully cut). Lastly there is the theatrical trailer included.

Directed by: Chris Olen Ray
Starring: Patrick Bergin, Yancy Butler, Josh Allen, Erin Coker
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Asylum Home Ent
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

When it comes to The Asylum films, I am first one in line. I was anticipating “Shark Week” this summer timed to steal some spotlight with Discovery Channel’s 25th Anniversary of “Shark Week”, I am sure. The film manages to bring the Asylum’s usual charm but doesn’t excel much. I am a fan of Chris Olen Ray’s work, especially in the shark genre with “2 Headed Shark Attack” and “Mega Shark vs. Crocosaurus” but still one falls a little flat. The CG is not the worst, I’ve seen and some parts are actually kind of kick-ass. Lastly, it also seemed like Patrick Bergin and Yancy Butler didn’t really have much to do in the film besides sit in front of computer. I call this a one-time watcher at most.

The premise is quite decent actually b It follows a group of strangers who find themselves captured at a wealthy madman’s island compound and are forced to survive a barrage of ever deadlier species of shark. The film has been quoted as “Saw” meets “Jaws”, which would have actually been awesome but the execution of that cool idea is where the film fails. When I interviewed the director, even he did not have any faith in this film saying “I am surprised we were even able to get a movie out of it…The concept behind this movie was such a great concept for it to turn out the way it did.”

I have no complaints with the the Blu-ray itself. It is a typical Asylum release and delivers a decent HD experience with both its 1080p video and its 5.1 surround sound audio track. The special features also follow the typical Asylum route and are a little light but still decent. There is a short behind-the-scenes feature called “The Making of Shark Week”. Lastly there is a gag reel included. Both features are worth checking out, even if you didn’t enjoy the film. I just wish the film was as amazing as the box cover!

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Directed by: Gene Nelson
Starring: Roddy Mcdowall, Debbie Watson, Gil Peterson, Phil Harris, Robert Coote, Nita Talbot,George Furth, Mrs. Miller, The Bantams, Glen Campbell, The Leaves, T.J. And The Fourmations
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 110 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I enjoy the musical genres, just as much as the new person.  This isn’t really a musical more a film based in the music world. I feel that the film is really aged and although this entertaining was a bit of struggle to get through.  Roddy McDowall co-starring in this film was a real draw for me but he wasn’t really front and center enough for me to really dig it.  But the music in the film was easily enough to make this film at least watchable including classic tracks like “This Town”.  

Like in the past though, Warner Archive does not disappoint the the newly restored transfer of this film.  It is presented in its original aspect ration of 2:40.1 and in 16X9 widescreen letterbox.  The audio in the film works well with the music scenes with its Dolby Mono track. Fans of 60’s music films should definitely check this out, worth at least one watch.  The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film.

Synopsis: Hey, you! Wanna catch the L.A. garage band that first recorded the oft-covered rock essential “Hey Joe?” That would be the Leaves, seen here in a performance of “In the House of Dr. Stone.” The Cool Ones has more cool musical stuff, too. Like Glen Campbell on his way to country/pop renown. Plus “This Town,” the song composed by Lee Hazlewood (the film’s music supervisor) that would become a Frank Sinatra staple. And the quirky song styling of mid-’60s camp sensation Mrs. Miller. The film’s story spoofs the music industry as it unwinds its loopy tale of a rock kingmaker (Roddy McDowall) and the girl-boy singing duo he plans to rocket to the top of the charts by making them everyone’s favorite romantic pair. Tammy TV and film star Debbie Watson plays the duo’s starry-eyed ex-go-go dancer, and Gil Peterson portrays the handsome crooner whose career had been flatlining. Look for uncredited Teri Garr (Young Frankenstein).

Directed by: Jack Cardiff
Starring: Rod Taylor, Julie Christie, Edith Evans, Michael Redgrave, Flora Robson, Maggie Smith
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 110 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Warner Archive’s is releasing another film in Rod Taylor’s filmography following “The Liquidator”. This film is not as entertaining. It was stated that Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide’s has called this his “best role ever” for Rod Taylor. I agree that is it a very engaging and emotional role and he did nail it but the film itself is where I had issues. The running time dragged for me at almost two hours. Good supporting roles comes from Julie Christie and Maggie Smith. At least this film carried the approval from O’ Casey himself and was based on his autobiography.

Like in the past though, Warner Archive does not disappoint the the newly restored transfer of this film.  It is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and in 16X9 widescreen letterbox.  The audio in the film is nothing that the Dolby Mono track can’t handle either.  Nonetheless, if you are a fan of Taylor’s work and looking for a chance to own this piece of cinema on DVD…you know have the chance.  The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film.

Synopsis: Young John Cassidy is a driven man. By day, he works manual labor, secretly trains in the hills with a band of revolutionaries eager to take Ireland’s fate into their own hands, joins mates for a pint, or sometimes enjoys the company of a lovely Dublin lass. By night and into the wee hours, he puts pencil to paper and writes of working-class Irish life. He will – he must – be a writer. The coming of age of renowned Irish playwright Sean O’ Casey (Cassidy is a name O’ Casey sometimes used for himself) comes to the screen in a colorful and atmospheric biopic directed by legendary John Ford (who left the film due to illness) and Jack Cardiff. Rod Taylor plays the title character, bringing strength and earthiness to his “best role ever” (Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide). A talented cast – including Julie Christie and Maggie Smith – adds to the appeal of a film whose script was

Directed by: Jack Cardiff
Starring: Rod Taylor, Trevor Howard, Jill St. John, Wilfred Hyde White, David Tomlinson, Akim Tamiroff, Eric Sykes, Gabriella Licudi
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 104 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I don’t think that anyone can deny that Rod Taylor is bad-ass. I just don’t see him working as well as Sean Connery did in this James Band rip-off. The film entertains for the most part but is missing the suave and gadgets to be considered a respectable spy entry. Cool fact, the two women in this film actually ended up being in Bond-related films anyway. Gabrielle Licudi was 1967’s “Casino Royale” and Jill St. John, played Tiffany Case in “Diamonds Are Forever”. I guess you can say they willed the roles.

Warner Archive is responsible for digging this 1965 film out of the vault and bringing it to DVD for the first time ever. It is presented in 16X9 widescreen letterbox with its original aspect ratio of 2.40:1.
The audio included is a Dolby Mono track, which works mostly well but the action scenes are little deprived. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film. If you are looking for a fun action-film that aims to steal a little thunder from 007, then I would definitely check this out.

Synopsis: In an era when Sean Connery, Michael Caine, James Coburn, Dean Martin, Robert Vaughn and more brought varying styles of secret-agent cool to movie screens, along came one of the most unusual spies ever to enter the Top Secret realm of hush-hush, bang-bang and kiss-kiss. Rod Taylor plays Boysie Oakes, Agent L, who enjoys the swinging-London lifestyle perks that come with espionage but would rather not engage in the squeamish business of killing, so he hires a professional hitman for that part of the job. Of course, events soon plunge Oakes into situations that require him to be a hero in spite of himself. Jack Cardiff directs this offbeat caper based on the John Gardner novel, reuniting with the star he guided previously in Young Cassidy. The cast includes two beauties who would soon return to sexy subterfuge: Gabrielle Licudi in 1967’s spoof Casino Royale and Jill St. John, who played Tiffany Case in Diamonds Are Forever.

Directors: Alastair Fothergill, Mark Linfield
Narrated by: Tim Allen
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 78 minutes

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

I look forward to Disneynature’s films every Earth Day for the last few years. This year’s installment “Chimpanzee” has been my most anticipated. Well, let’s say that I was very impressed with the film. It takes more story approach and really delves into the lives of these Chimps. It feels more like a movie and less like a documentary. Tim Allen’s narration provides a great narrative and gets a bunch of great laughs as well. Disney does not disappoint with its Blu-ray presentation, as always. This film look glorious in its 1080p transfer. It also packs a wallop in its fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. Fans of the Disneynature series will enjoy this film for sure and I sure hope that they are planning to continue this series.

Film Synopsis: “From Disneynature, the studio that brought you “Earth,” “Oceans,” and “African Cats,” comes “Chimpanzee” — a remarkable story of individual triumph and family bonds. Journey deep into the African forest and meet Oscar, an adorable young chimp with an entertaining approach to life. The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimps who love creating mayhem. His playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Stunning hi-definition images bring you up close and personal as Oscar and his family navigate the complex territory of the forest. It’s an inspiring and life-changing adventure that overflows with courage and charm. And it will capture your heart.”

This release is jam-packed with special features and the following are exclusive only to the Blu-ray release. “On Location: The Making of Chimpanzee” includes a series of short featurettes that tells what in the great lengths that the filmmakers went to tell the story of Oscar and his chimpanzee family. “30 Years in the Making” includes the story of the team of researchers who have been observing chimpanzees in the Ivory Coast for 30 years. “The Heart of the “Chimpanzee”” is a great behind-the-scenes featurettes on how and why the film was made. “Piece of the Puzzle” is an amazing two-hour daily trek from one of the cameramen in order to hike through the forest to get to the chimpanzees. “Don’t Blame the Tool” is a funny feature how chimpanzees’ use rocks as tools to prepare their food. One of the funniest scenes in the movie BTW. “Scar’s Army” looks into the struggles between the film’s two rival chimpanzee groups who share the same forest home. “Camp Invaders” switches focus to the creepy, crawly creatures found at the filmmakers’ forest camp. “Forest of Bees” goes into detail on how the crew spent two days wading through a sea of bees in order to capture 20 seconds of footage. Lastly there is a music video for song rise from McClain Sisters and also a behind-the-scenes look into the shoot.

The following extras are the only extras included on the DVD, but are also on the Blu-ray. “See ‘Chimpanzee,’ Save Chimpanzees” focuses on the conservation program and how Disneynature will make a donation to JGI to protect chimpanzees today and tomorrow with the purchase of this release. The feature also includes an interview with Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace. “Disney’s Friends for Change—This” highlights Disney’s Friends for Change program, that showcases steps that kids and families can take to make a positive impact on the world and the people and animals that live there. “Disney’s Conservation Legacy” look into the conservation efforts that Disney sponsors around the world.

Creator: Mike Kelley
Starring: Emily VanCamp, Madeleine Stowe, Gabriel Mann, Henry Czerny, Ashley Madekwe
Number of discs: 5
MPAA Rating: TV-PG
Distributed by: ABC Studios
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 924 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
EXtras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I started watching “Revenge”, I enjoyed it but then I thought to myself how are they going to keep this going.  How long can she really seek revenge?  Well I was very pleasantly surprised with this season and each each episode on the show only get better and better and reveals many new mysteries throughout.  Emily VanCamp is one tough girl, I would definitely not want to cross her (I have a feeling she holds a grudge). Madeleine Stowe really steals the spotlight in this show.  Her portrayal of the high-society Hampton wife was one of the best roles on television.  If you are a fan of this show, you will know my concerns on the topic.  ABC Studios is not one to usually release their shows on Blu-ray (besides “Once Upon a Time”).  I am not sure why they did not in the case, especially since the norm is leaning towards Blu-ray releases and the show is already presented in HD.  The DVD itself does look nice though within its aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and an audio track of Dolby Digital 5.1. Nonetheless Mike Kelley has really developed a very deep and interesting season that I have the feeling will be able to continue for many years to come.

ABC’s “Revenge” takes us through Emily Thorne’s (Emily VanCamp) quest for revenge. She plans to uncover every deep, dark secret for one of the Hampton’s most powerful family, the Graysons.  She finds that beneath the luxurious lifestyle of the Hamptons, lies a dark secret within that family concerning the wrongful arrest and leading death of her father.  As Emily unraveled this twisted tale of passion, suspense, and ultimate redemption, she finds clues about her father and the people responses for his framing.  Emily Thorne sets (Emily VanCamp) her vindictive plot against Victoria Grayson (Madeleine Stowe), the reigning queen of the Hamptons, and everyone else who destroyed her family.  Of course things don’t always go to plan and things her complicated and unravel in the wake of an unexpected love triangle between Emily, the son of her greatest nemesis, and a forgotten face from her past.

If this show isn’t good enough it’s bonus features are also extremely impressive. “Nolan Ross Exposed” is a faux feature, which exposes the truth behind the character Nolan Ross (Gabriel Mann) with sit-down interview footage and reporter Sarah Juarez (Stephanie Maura Sanchez) looks to get answers.  “Roadmap To Revenge” is narrates by Emily VanCamp as she goes through her road to revenge for the show.  “At Home In “The Hamptons”” is a look into the high life with Ashley Madekwe as she plays tour guide into the larger-than-life role in the show.  “Haute Hamptons: Femme Fatale Fashion” takes a look into the styling of the two leading ladies, Emily VanCamp and Madeleine Stowe with Costume Designer Jill Ohanneson.  There are six quite decent deleted scenes and a bunch of great bloopers and outtakes.  There is also an audio commentary on the pilot episode with Creator Mike Kelley and Actress Emily VanCamp.  Lastly there two music videos including Christina Perri’s “Distance” and Angus & Julia Stone’s “For You.”

Directed by: Shinji Aramaki
Starring: Leraldo Anzaldua, Luci Christian, Melissa Davis, Justin Doran, David Matranga
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 89 minutes

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

“Starship Troopers: Invasion” is finally a true sequel to “Starship Troopers”. It took them four films to get it right. This is also the first of hopefully many CG-animated within this franchise. The series is way too ambitious to be done live-action without a very large budget and works very well computer-generated. They were also smart to include plenty of boobs, gore and plenty of wits, which is what made this series great. The story takes a little while to get started and it has it problems but this is what this series needed, some mindless kick-ass action.  “Invasion” also brings back series favorite characters including Carl Jenkins, Carmen Ibanez and of course Johnny Rico, though they are not reprised by their original cast. Casper Van Dien does serve as an executive producer to the film but that is all. Fans of the series should definitely check out this film and will not be disappointed.

From Sony’s official synopsis: “A distant Federation outpost Fort Casey comes under attack by bugs. The team on the fast attack ship Alesia is assigned to help the Starship John A. Warden stationed in Fort Casey evacuate along with the survivors and bring military intelligence safely back to Earth. Carl Jenkins, now ministry of Paranormal Warfare, takes the starship on a clandestine mission before its rendezvous with the Alesia and goes missing in the nebula. Now, the battle-hardened troopers are charged with a rescue mission that may lead to a much more sinister consequence than they ever could have imagined.”

Sony’s Blu-ray release looks fantastic with the CG-animation in its 1080p transfer within its 1.78:1 aspect ratio.  I meanm the film was made with computer, so I always feel that CGI films should look the best on Blu-ray.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is extremely explosive and sounds fantastic through the film’s many action sequences.  The special features are also very impressive as well.  There is an audio commentary track from director Shinji Aramaki.  But the real star of the disc is a massive in-depth “The Making of Starship Troopers: Invasion” series of featurettes. The feature is broken up into numerous aspects of the film’s production including Character Design, Motion Capture, Powersuits, Bugs, Ships, Animation, Backgrounds, Compositing, Music and lastly a Gag reel.  I really though these were very informative especially the featurette on the motion capture.  Lastly there is a Blu-ray exclusive extra for the conceptual art gallery.

Directed by: Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda
Starring: Danny DeVito, Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Ed Helms, Rob Riggle, Betty White, Jenny Slate
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
Release Date: August 7, 2012
MPAA Rating: PG
Running Time: 87 minutes

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

Dr. Seuss has had a bumpy road on the big screen over the years. I really enjoyed “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with Jim Carrey. Though Mike Myers’ turn as “The Cat in the Hat” was barely watchable. Similar to this film, “Horton Hears a Who” was full CGI and was decent but nothing special. “The Lorax” on the other hand is very enjoyable and perfect for kids to enjoy. I originally screened the film in theaters in 3D and I really did enjoy that experience, though watching it on 2D on Blu-ray was still a decent. I thought that this film looks “pretty” in theaters but damn…does it look even better on Blu-ray.

The voice cast is also very impressive. Danny DeVito seems absolutely perfect for the role of The Lorax and easily nails it. Zac Efron and Taylor Swift will both be a big draw to the film with the tweens. Ed Helms is basically the main character besides The Lorax or at least for the first half and he is fun but also easily unlikable. Rob Riggle plays a great baddie and get a lot of laughs.

The 1080p transfer really shines well and I don’t know how but looks so much better than my theatrical experience. Universal delivers a near-perfect video presentation within its original aspect ratio of 1:85.1. The colors were extremely sharp and just overall very pleasant to look at. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is also very impressive with the score and just overall fun. Easily one of the best audio tracks, I have experiences this entire year! This release also comes in a Blu-ray combo pack covering all plays you can watch this film. It comes with a Blu-ray disc, a DVD disc, a digital copy disc and also an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. Can’t ask for me in that department.

The special features are impressive as well like the film. The directors, Chris Renaud and Kyle Balda deliver one-hell of an extensive audio commentary, definitely won’t keep kids interest though and definitely for the adults. There are three new mini-movies, including “Wagon Ho!”, “Forces of Nature” and “Serenade”. “Making of Mini-Movies” looks behind the scenes on these three shorts. There is one short single extended scene, nothing special here. “O-Hare TV” is the ability to watch “The Lorax” with commercial interruptions advertising O’Hare products. I think this is really cute and fun feature. “Expedition of Truffula Valley” is an interactive tour of Thneedville and the Valley. “Seuss to Screen” is a very short, actually too short look at adapting “The Lorax” from the book to the big screen. There are three kids games called “Once-ler’s Wagon,” “Get Out of Town” and “Truffula Run.” They are all very cute. Lastly there is a sing-along for the song “Let it Grow”.

Starring: Mel Blanc, Frank Welker
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
13 Episodes
Running Time: 312 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I grew up watching “Heathcliff”.  The first season of the show back in 1980 was called “Heathcliff and Dingbat”, which ran for 13 episodes.  It was really run revisiting the show, which is still sharp and funny.  Plus, who doesn’t love to listen to Mel Blanc, the man of 1,000 voices, do what he does best and given Heathcliff his trademark laugh.  Warner Archive is behind this great DVD release.  Once again they have delivered a great classic 80’s cartoon to DVD for the first time ever!  I hold this series very close since I grew up on it.  I am more excited to now be able to share my childhood series with my own daughter now.

For a show that is over 30 years old, it still looks sharp.  The colors aren’t as crisp as they could be sure this isn’t a HD Blu-ray release, so for what it is worth it looks great.  The show is presented in 4X3 full frame within its originial aspect ratio of 1.37:1.  The audio included on this release is an Dolby Mono track. After watching 13 episodes, I was craving for more.  I hope that Warner Archive is considering to release the following seasons of this show as well, like “Heathcliff and Marmaduke”.  This is a must for all fans of classic animation or Saturday morning cartoons.

Premise: The sassiest, frassiest, classiest cat, Heathcliff, jumps from the comic strip to the TV screen in the first of his animated adaptations and is joined by the silliest trio of monsters ever seen, the aptly named Dingbat and the Creeps. The feline half of the show is pure classic Heathcliff high jinks, with the highfalutin’ low-livin’ tomcat living the life while romancing Sonja, avoiding the dog-catcher and tormenting Spike. And as an added soupcon of catnip, Heathcliff is voiced by the legendary man of 1,000 voices, Mel Blanc! Meanwhile, a dog heads up the second half, but this is no common canine. Dingbat is a vampire dog, who with fellow Creeps the fat skeleton Sparerib and teamleader Nobody, a talking jack-o-lantern, makes up the strangest service biz ever seen, Odd Jobs, Inc. So grab a seat and get ready for the funniest antics this side of alleyway and graveyard in this complete 2-Disc, 13-Episode collection.

Starring: Dax Shepard, Kristin Bell and Bradley Cooper
Directed by: Dax Shepard and David Palmer
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hr 40 mins
Open Road Films

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Charlie Bronson (Shepard) and his girlfriend, Annie, (Bell) lie in bed, making the kind of promises only people in love make. A loud car outside alerts them that they have company. The driver is Randy (Tom Arnold). A U.S. Marshal, Randy can best be described as “clutzy.” One more spilled coffee or accidental discharge of his weapon and he’s going to lose his gig guarding people in the Witness Protection Program. What? You didn’t think Charlie Bronson was his real name, did you?

A collection of car chases and occasionally hilarious one-liners, “Hit and Run” is a promising sophomore project for star Shepard, who not only stars and co-directs but also wrote the script. As a former member of a bank robbery gang who turned state’s evidence for love, Shepard is an appealing lead. He gives a solid performance, as does Bell. Cooper, who apparently had his hair done at the same salon as the Simpson’s Sideshow Bob, has fun in a role much smaller than advertised. Think of him as Eddie Murphy in “Best Defense” – a strategic guest star. The always underappreciated Tom Arnold steals most of his scenes. Why he’s never had a bigger career has always amazed me. The man is funny. As are the various cameo performers, including Kristin Chenowith, David Koechner, Justin Bateman, Sean Hayes and Beau Bridges.

Shepard’s script runs the gambit from maudlin to outrageous. Some of the dialogue is pretty forgettable but a few comments hit dead center on the funny bone. The direction is fine though I did get tired of seeing cars doing donuts in parking lots over and over and over again. Kudos to whoever put the soundtrack together. A great assortment of Lou Rawls, Kool and the Gang, the Dazz Band and, if my ears didn’t betray me, a quick snippet of instrumental music from “Rocky.”

Created by: Gene Roddenberry
Starring: Gary Lockwood, Robert Vaughn, James Gregory, Richard Anderson
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Release Date: August 14, 2012
8 Discs / 29 Episdoes
Running Time: 1555 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am a big fan of Gene Roddenberry’s work for “Star Trek” but I have to admit I was not aware of this fantastic series. This complete series is split into a Part 1 and Part 2 DVD sets. The show follows a young Marine Corp lieutenant (Gary Lockwood) as he struggles to carry out his duties while under the guidance of a by-the-book captain (Robert Vaughn) during cold war peacetime. The show only last 29 episodes airing between 1963-1963, which is quite sad since it was a really great series. Once I got started watching I complete all 29 episodes in just two days, my eye hurt but I was locked in. Thanks to WB Archive, who beautifully restored this series and finally we are able to own Roddenberry’s pre-Star Trek series on DVD for the first time!  Highly recommended.

The TV series looks sharp on DVD in black and white 4X3 full frame presentation and its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1.  The audio included on the DVD is the original Dolby Mono track, which sounds great as well.  Part 1 of the complete series includes 16-episodes spread out over a 4-disc collection.  Richard Donner (“Superman”, “Lethal Weapon”) even lended his early directing skills to the series.  “Star Trek” fans keep an ear out since Roddenberry naming Lockwood’s character William Tiberius Rice. Also included are re-occuring roles from TV legend’s James Gregory and Richard Anderson.  Part 2 of the complete series includes the remaining 13-episodes also spread out over a 4-disc collection.  The second half of the season is extremely jam-packed with guest stars including Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, Woody Strode.  There is also a bunch of future “Star Trek” alums like Leonard Nimoy, Majel Barrett, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and Ricardo Montalban. There is even a great bonus episode “To Kill aMan”, the feature film version of the series’ final episode, unseen since its original international theatrical release in 1964!  This is a real treat sure to please any fan of Roddenbery.

Part 1: A man of war. A time of fragile peace. This is the set-up for Gene Roddenberry’s The Lieutenant, the tale of a brash and charming Marine lieutenant (2001: A Space Odyssey’s Gary Lockwood) serving at Camp Pendleton under a steely, button-down captain (The Man from U.N.C.L.E.’s Robert Vaughn). The Lieutenant is packed full of themes, tropes, and quirks that Roddenberry would further explore in his next series, Star Trek. Lockwood’s William Tiberius Rice (yes, Tiberius!) is every bit the charming devil, but that’s just the glossy veneer that covers his firm commitment to Corps and Country. While Vaughn’s Captain Rambridge has the reasoning and the seasoning to keeps Rice in line when his passions overflow. TV greats James Gregory (Barney Miller) and Richard Anderson (The Six Million Dollar Man) enjoy recurring roles and a young Richard Donner (Superman, Lethal Weapon) directs many an episode. 16-Episodes, 4-Disc Collection.

Part 2: Lt. Rice and Capt. Rambridge continue their mission to train new recruits and explore the nature of honor and duty in this 4-Disc, 13-Episode Collection. The simmering background of the brewing conflict in Asia heats up and takes center stage as the series builds up to its ultimate away mission, and Lt. Rice finds himself serving as a military advisor in Vietnam. Rice’s other missions include investigating film, fame, race relations, faith and loyalty with the aid of hi-caliber guests like Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, Woody Strode and future Trek alums Leonard Nimoy, Majel Barrett, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and Ricardo Montalban. Rarely seen since its original airing, The Lieutenant proves to be an unheralded harbinger of TV yet-to-come, “light years” ahead of its time. Special Bonus: To Kill a Man – the feature film version of the series’ final episode, unseen since its original international theatrical release in 1964!