Directed by: Nigel Levy
Starring: Adam Burton, Des O’Malley, Harry Napier, Tim Maltin, Bill Ratner
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Studio: Smithsonian Channel
Release Date: May 29, 2012
Running Time: 92 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am sucker when it comes to programs about the Titanic. This program which originally aired on the Smithsonian Channel is not only informative but also very interesting. The CG effects are decent (not the best I’ve seen, but good). The program is presented in (almost) HD with a 1080i resolution, but it still looks clear and sharp. The audio track included is good even if it is only presented in Dolby Digital 5.1, not surround.

The sinking of Titanic, which occured over 100 years ago, still remains one of history’s most mysterious tragedies in living memory. This documentary attempts to reveal reveal and explain some of the missing pieces in our knowledge of the infamous sinking over a century ago. There are tons of programs about the mysteries of the Titanic and this one stands out among them. It proves that there is much more to the story than has been revealed.

This documentary is also interesting because it provides re-enacted interviews from the people involved with that fateful night over 100 years ago. Like I said the CG involved is not groundbreaking or Discovery Channel standard but still looks good and assist this program to entertain. If you are Titanic buff like myself, you will definitely enjoy this unique approach to the Titanic’s Final Mystery…even though I am sure there will many future mysteries.

Starring: Brandon Routh, Gil Birmingham and Chelsea Ricketts
Directed by: Steve Rash
PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 45 mins
Peck Entertainment

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I’ll admit up front that I’ve never played lacrosse. To be honest, it wasn’t played where I grew up in Florida. I first learned about it when I lived in Baltimore, as it’s a very popular sport in the mid-Atlantic states. I do know that it is a game of skill and speed. And those qualities are perfectly captured in the new and uplifting film “Crooked Arrows.”

Joe Logan (Routh) currently runs the casino that sits on land that has been in his tribe for centuries. Calling himself “Chief Wampum,” he wanders the gaming floor handing out feathers with bonus coupons attached and shooting arrows at a board that also includes such specials as “$5.00 free play!” When the developer that built the casino wants to expand he makes Joe an offer he can’t refuse. If he can convince the tribal elders to cede more land for expansion he will make Joe, and the tribe, very wealthy. But in order to succeed Joe must also do something for his people.

Presented with the approval and cooperation of the Onondaga Nation, “Crooked Arrows” is a history lesson in the game of lacrosse, which was invented centuries ago by Native Americans. Referred to often as both “the creator’s game” and “the medicine game,” lacrosse is both an athletic and spiritual journey. When Joe is informed by the tribal elders that he must also complete a spiritual journey to achieve his goals, he is assigned the task of coaching the tribal schools lacrosse team. We learn that Joe was, at one time, a great player for a rival private school, where he was known as “Logan the Legend.” However he soured on the game and really wants nothing to do with it. However, he accepts the challenge and, assisted by his lacrosse-loving sister Nadie (Ricketts) and guided by the advice of his father (Birmingham) he begins to recapture the love and respect he had both for the game and for his heritage.

The performances here are strong and natural. Routh may very well be the most likeable actor working today. There’s something about his presence on-screen, be it in “Superman Returns” or the romantic “Fling,” that just says “good guy.” Even when he’s fighting against the tribal councils wishes you can’t help but root for him. Ricketts is equally likeable here. As the only member of the team that actually understands the game and its heritage she radiates confidence. And Birmingham brings a quiet dignity to his role as both the tribe’s leader and Joe and Nadie’s dad.

Director Rash, who three decades ago gave us the great bio-pic “The Buddy Holly Story,” has managed to capture both the speed of the game and the smaller off-field moments beautifully. The photography, especially when the film flashes back to images of long ago, is lush and Brian Ralston’s musical score is a perfect accompaniment to the onscreen story.

Click here for our interview with Brandon Routh
Click here for our interview with Chelsea Ricketts

Danny Trejo has appeared in over 200 acting roles. Most recently Danny appears in the film “Ranchero” which was directed by Richard Kaponas. Media Mikes had the chance to talk with Danny about the film as well as his involvement in the upcoming Robert Rodriguez sequel “Machete Kills”.

Adam Lawton: Can you tell us about your latest film “Ranchero”?
Danny Trejo: That was kind of a labor of love for me. A good friend of mine Rick Gutierrez and I were in prison together. His brother Roger is in this film and he asked if I could do him a favor and read the script. I told him sure but I couldn’t really promise anything. I read the script and thought it was good and they asked if I had any time I could give them. I had about 3 days and told them if they could make it work I would do it. They made everything work and I am really glad I was able to do the film. Acts of love always come out really well.

AL: Can you describe your role in the film?
DT: I am a badass! The director was pretty sharp because he put me in a wheel chair. He showed that you can be a badass sitting down. The character comes across really well. The whole story is about struggle.

AL: With the film being released straight to DVD will it include any bonus material?
DT: Oh yeah. I think there is going to be a few additional scenes included on the disc. I didn’t take part in that portion of things so I can’t be too sure of what all will be on there.

AL: You just wrapped on a film titled “Dead in Tombstone”. Can you tell us anything about that?
DT: The film is a western and it came along awesome. It was directed by Roel Reine who also directed me in “Death Race 2” and “Death Race: Inferno”. I love his mode of direction as it is very similar to Robert Rodriguez. Those guys shoot everything and I love working like that. There isn’t a lot of down time and things are action packed.

AL: You have quite a few projects in the works right now but when you first started in the film business did you ever envision a career like you have now?
DT: No. I am still scared that someone is going to come along and wake me up for chow as I am still in the joint. (Laughs) It’s just unbelievable.

AL: What do you think has been the biggest change in the movie industry since you started?
DT: I think one of the biggest changes in the industry has been Robert Rodriguez. I think he has hit it and really made an impact. He has done both independent and low budget films. He showed that you can come out of high school, put a little bit of money together and make a film. He made it possible for my kid to make a movie if he wanted to.

DT: I had walked into his office to do “Desperado”. He looked at me and told me I reminded him of the bad kids in his high school. I told him I am the bad kids in his high school. From there we just hit it off.

AL: What can we be expecting from the much anticipated Machete sequel “Machete Kills”?
DT: June 14^th we start shooting. The film is going to be over the top and bigger than the first film! “Machete Kills” is going to put a new coat of paint on action.

AL: Having played the role of Machete a number of times now; have you been allowed to give any input towards the role?
DT: Robert has always let me give input. In fact the line “Machete don’t text” came about because I was trying to get a hold of Robert before Comic-Con and he wouldn’t answer his phone. When I finally got a hold of him I asked why he would answer my calls. He told me that every time I tried calling him he was either in a meeting or shooting something. He said the best way to get a hold of him was to text him. I told him “Machete don’t text” and he just laughed. When I saw it was in the script I couldn’t believe he remembered it from when there was 20 thousand people around us at Comic-Con. The guy is a genius and remembers everything.

Directed by: Marc Fields
Starring: Steve Martin, Bela Fleck
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: New Video Group
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 82 minutes

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

There is something about the banjo that is just fascinating. This film is narrated by actor/comedian/musician Steve Martin. He is known for being an master of the banjo and has recorded a few albums as well. The film really goes deep into the history behind the banjo. It also features numerous interviews with banjo musicians and archive footage dating back to the beginning of the banjo. If you are a music fan, you will appreciate this documentary.

“Give Me The Banjo” takes a musical journey through 300 years of American history and culture. The contemporary banjo musician that appear in the film are Pete Seeger, Earl Scruggs, Bela Fleck, Taj Mahal, Mike Seeger, Alison Brown, Sonny Osborn, Don Vappie, Cynthia Sayer and Abby Washburn. The interviews are very interesting and personal. The performance footage included takes a fantastic look into the banjo world. There is also a lot of great rare stills and recordings.

The special feature are decent overall. Firstly there is 30 minutes of extended performances from Taj Mahal, Cynthia Sayer, Ralph Stanley, Riley Baugus and Rhiannon Giddens. The footage is great and banjo lovers will enjoy the extended footage. Lastly there is a feature called “Profile of Uncle Dave Macon”. Would love liked to see more about Steve Martin perhaps, or a commentary track but overall still very impressive.

Related Content

• CD/DVD Review: Motorhead “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”
• Blu-ray Review “Monkey Shines”
• Blu-ray Review “Chicago: Diamond Edition”
• Blu-ray Review “Miramax Triple Feature: Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers, Halloween H20: 20 Years Later & Halloween: Resurrection”
• 2011 Film Reviews

Directed by: Andrew Stanton
Starring: Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, Willem Dafoe
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Buena Vista
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 132 minutes

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

Alright, so I think that “John Carter” got a bad rep in theaters. The film is nowhere near as bad as people say. It is a fun sci-fi flick which looks visually amazing. Is it the best plot ever? No, it has it faults but if you are a sci-fi fan it is almost guaranteed to leave you satisfied and if you are like me seeing on the edge of your chair. The actually story of “John Carter” is adapted from “A Princess of Mars” by Edgar Rice Burroughs, which was written around 100 years ago. I think Disney and Andrew Stanton did a great job with this film and I really enjoyed it over all. The 3D also looks absolutely fantastic, especially on Blu-ray. It really assists in creating Mars and adds its depth. The 3D also plays really well off the insane action sequences in the film and wonderful visual effects.

Let’s get to the look and feel of the film. It is one of the sharpest Blu-rays that I own in my collection. The 1080p transfer is perfect, absolutely flawless. If that is not enough the audio is also out-of-the-world boasting Disney’s DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track. It is so impressive my couch felt like it was moving during the action scenes. This release not only came with the 3D Blu-ray but also a really 2D Blu-ray, a DVD and digital copy of the film. Disney really aims to please with this release and does not disappoint. Like I said this is one amazing Blu-ray, whether you like the film or not, this will blow you away!

The special features are definitely worth checking out especially if you enjoyed the film. There is an audio commentary from Director Andrew Stanton and producers Jim Morris and Lindsey Collins. It is a fun commentary track and covers a lot of ground on the film. You can enjoy “Disney Second Screen Interactive Experience” if you use your iPad, laptop, or sync the film with your device in order to explore John Carter’s journal. There are ten deleted scenes included with optional Director’s Commentary, running just short of twenty minutes. “100 Years in the Making” is a great feature but a little short, which goes into depth on Edgar Rice Burroughs’ life and the John Carter’s road from book to film. “360 Degrees of John Carter” is a thirty-five minute extensive production diary covering all aspects of the film’s production. Lastly there is are Barsoom Bloopers, which get a few good laughs off. Overall haters will hate but this is a decent movie.

Directed by: Vincent D’Onofrio
Starring: Bo Boddie, Eric Bogosian, Gwynn Galitzer
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: New Video Group
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 83 minutes

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

It is not too often that you hear the words, horror movie and musical but in the same sentence. “Don’t Go in the Woods” is a really a great blend of both. It plays like a great combination of “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and “Glee”. The music is over-the-top pop music and really adds a lot to the environment of the film. There are fast cuts and a lot of great thrills. The gore is amazing and completely over the top but not campy at all.

This is the directorial debut from Vincent D’Onofrio (Full Metal Jacket, Law & Order: Criminal Intent) and I really hope he continues directing because he is out-of-this-world! The musical/horror hybrid tells the story of a young band who heads to the woods escape everyday life and technology in order to focus on writing new songs. But their hopes of taking a break from everything will only cause them suffering as them find themselves in the middle of a nightmare.

The music in the film is fantastic lead and penned by acclaimed singer-songwriter Sam Bisbee and backed by a gifted ensemble cast. I wish they would have included some extra features concerning blending of music with horror. The special features included is “American Express Presents an Interview with Director Vincent D’Onofrio”, which is a decent look into this first directing effort. There is also a few Behind the Scenes Interviews with the Cast and Crew.

Directed by: John Gulager
Starring: Danielle Panabaker, Matt Bush, David Koechner, Chris Zylka, Katrina Bowden, Gary Busey, Christopher Lloyd, David Hasselhoff
Distributed by Dimension Films
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 83 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

When I saw “Piranha 3D” in the theaters back in 2010, I was blown away and had quite a lot of fun. Of course that film left the ending wide open for a sequel. Though this sequel has not had an easy road, it was rushed to be released, them pushed back and then basically canned. If you are looking to watch “Piranha 3DD” in 3D in theaters…think again, since it is only being released in a sad 75 theaters in North America. Luckily it is also coming out in VOD on outlets like Amazon, iTunes and Vudu, of course those aren’t in 3D like the film is intended. Thanks to DirecTV for hooking this film up in 3D and for a very reasonable $7.99. But after watching the film was it even worth all this hassle?

I have been very eager to see this film, especially after seeing the completely over-the-top red band trailer. Let’s just say I enjoyed it but was disappointed. The film feels very rushed and has zero focus…though still tries to have fun. The scale of the film seems very tone compared to the first and the impact of the piranha attack seems to be very underwhelming and quick. Now with that all aside, there are a bunch of great gags, some including penises (double entendre, ha!). The gore is present but not over-the-top like I was hoping. The double DD’s are definitely present as well but get’s lost in the shuffle.

The best part of the film is the supporting cast. David Koechner is funny as always. Christopher Lloyd is always a favorite of mine and I am very happy he returned to the role of Mr. Goodman. Gary Busey’s role is way too short and not as effective of a kick-off as the Dreyfuss bit was in the first film. Ving Rhames is a laugh riot as well but I wish his role was expanded. How can you say no to a line like “Gimme ma legs”? The VIP of the film though has to be David Hasselhoff. He absolutely steals the show, as usual, and really has a good time poking fun at himself.

The effects in the film are decent and I give them credit for using a mix of CG and puppet piranhas as well. The 3D effects are present but don’t really top the first film. This a little disappointing especially since the first film was post-converted and this was actually shot in 3D. But despite all the negative, this film is still downright fun…stupid…but fun. Dimension Films, if you are reading this…I still want a “Piranha 3”, but you can keep John Gulager. I wouldn’t want him to turn this franchise into what he did with the “Feast” films.  Be sure to stick around for through the credits to enjoy some more fun and outtakes with The Hoff stealing it again! You go Hoff!

Starring: Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron
Directed by: Rupert Sanders
PG 13
Running time: 2 hours 7 mins
Universal

Our Score: 1 out of 5 stars

Some fairy tales are best left alone. In doing some quick research I learned that there are no less than thirty filmed versions of the tale of Snow White. And I’m willing to bet that all of them (well, maybe not the X-rated version entitled “Once Upon A Girl”) are better than “Snow White and the Huntsman.”

As the film begins we are told, via narration, the story of a happy couple that wanted a happy baby. The missus pricks her finger on a rose and three drops of blood escape. Apparently the drops of blood signify red lips, black hair and white skin. Turns out the couple in question are actually the king and queen of a happy kingdom. The queen has a beautiful baby girl, who they name Snow White. And they live happily ever after. Just kidding!

I hardly know where to begin.

Apparently when the film was cast the actors were told that they either needed to speak like “this” or like “THIS!” Both the evil queen (Theron) and the fair Snow White (Stewart) either mumble their lines to their fellow actors or SCREAM them! As the magic mirror-loving, bird heart-eating queen who has apparently been done wrong by one man too many, Theron comes off as a better dressed version of Aileen Wuornos, the man-hating serial killer she won an Oscar portraying in 2003’s “Monster.” Her makeup makes her features fluctuate from a blindingly beautiful queen to a weathered hag who eerily resembles Courtney Love’s Althea Flynt at the end of “The People vs Larry Flynt.”
The queen also has a creepy relationship with her brother, Finn (Sam Spruell). And by creepy I mean “Angelina Jolie and her brother at the 2000 Oscars” creepy.

As Snow White, Stewart doesn’t have much to do while she’s locked in a tower. Once she escapes she proves herself to be quite feisty. However, she too is a shouter. And then there’s Hemsworth, who apparently was the only actor that was trying when the film was shot. Burdened with the only accent in the film, the kind that makes the word “three” sound like “tree,” and wielding a large axe much like he wielded his Hammer as Thor, Hemsworth gives the only layered performance in the film. Even the seven dwarves, played by who’s who of British actors including Ian McShane, Bob Hoskins and Nick Frost, couldn’t bring this film to life. It’s like everybody on set, sans Hemsworth, took a bite of the famed poisoned apple and drifted off to sleep. And since these aren’t Disney’s dwarves they’re saddled with such un-cute names like Beith, Nion and Gort. One of them bore a striking resemblance to Mel Brooks’ Yogurt in “Spaceballs,” but since he’s apparently blind I just call him “Blindy,” in memory of Walt.

The pacing is horrible, making a two hour-plus film feel EXACTLY LIKE a two hour-plus film. The script is cobbled together from pretty much every different version of the Snow White tale you remember from your childhood. Somebody better call John Lee Hancock, who wrote such films as “The Blind Side” and “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” and tell him somebody added his name to the other two taking credit for the screenplay. Thankfully I have to watch “A Perfect World” this weekend so I can be reminded of what a talented writer he truly is. On the plus side, the musical score by James Newton Howard is a pleasant distraction from the action on screen.

Thanks to my crack research I’ve learned that two of the actors featured in “Once Upon a Girl” were Hal Smith, who played the loveable town drunk Otis on “The Andy Griffith Show,” and Frank Welker, one of the best voice-over actors EVER. Armed with that knowledge I think “Once Upon a Girl” may also be better than “Snow White and the Huntsman.”

Directed by: Richard Linklater
Starring: Jack Black, Matthew McConaughey, Shirley MacLaine
Distributed by: Millennium Entertainment
MPAA rating: PG-13
Running Time: 104 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Bernie” is directed by Richard Linklater, who is known best for his films “Waking Life” and “Dazed and Confused”. I feel that his work has lost the ‘Linklater charm’ recently especially after his last film “Me and Orson Welles”. The film stars Jack Black and Shirley MacLaine, who both give fantastic performances. The film itself starts off great and plays well between the its narrative and documentary style. Towards the end it seems either rushed or loses focus.

The film follows a small Texas town mortician Bernie Tiede (Black), who befriends a rich widow Marjorie Nugent (MacLaine) after her husband’s death. After becomes her friend and companion, Bernie murders Nugent due to her constant putdowns and tries to get away with it.  Since no one is town like her and she has no friends,  months go by before anyone really miss her.  When local district attorney (McConaughey) begins to investigate, things get complicated for Bernie and the local small town of Carthage.

“Bernie” is based off a true story from a 1998 Texas Monthly magazine article about a 1996 murder of a millionaire by her companion. Like I said, Jack Black gives one of his best performances to date and steals this film. He is funny yet isn’t really try that hard as usual. If you are looking for something different this summer from all the superheros and action films, this could be a good alternative for you.

Directed by: Chris Stokes
Starring: Gary Sturgis, Tristen M. Carter, Marques Houston, Kida Burns, Zach Balandres, Camren Bicondova, Edward Mandell, Kyle Brooks
Studio: Brian and Barrett Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 103 minutes

Our Score: 1 out of 5 stars

It is really rare that I have trouble finishing a film. Well let’s just say that “Battlefield America” was one of those films. I have seen “You Got Served” and enjoyed it quite a bit…it is hard to believe that this is from the same people. There has been many dance films to follow like the “Step Up” series, which I also love. But this one isn’t even in the same boat as those.  This is a kids version of “You Got Served, but even though kids are the focus but there is no way I would let my young kids see this film.

The film focuses on a young businessman who get sentenced to community service for getting in trouble with the law by only following his own rules. Not sure how but he goes from businessman to dance teacher but he ends up being a mentor and coach to a group of misfit kids and getting them into a underground dance competition.

Marques Houston, best known for his role in the TV series “Sister, Sister”, didn’t really fit in this film. His role in “You Got Served” was more interesting to watch. I wish they would have made the film more about dance and less his relationship and work ethics. When the film had dance scenes, they were fantastic but they were WAY too far and few between. If the film would have played the way it did after the opening scene, this would have turned out a whole lot different.  While watching this, I recall looking at the clock and expected this to be almost over and instead found out that it still had 40 minutes.  If you like dance films, you will be better off missing this one and save yourself two hours you won’t get back.

The Jeff Healey Band: Live in Belgium
DVD + CD
Eagle Vision
Total Running Time: 82 minutes

Our Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Eagle Vision’s raid of The Jeff Healey Band vault continues with this latest entry, a July 1993 show from the Peers Blues Festival in Belgium. As was always the case, Jeff and his band mates serve up a full-course meal of fiery blues in which every song features a guitar solo from Healey that usually rates with those played by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eric Clapton. And the fact that he’s scorching the fretboard is made all the more impressive by the fact that Healey was blind from age one until his untimely passing in 2008 at the age of 41.

Six of the disc’s thirteen songs are culled from the 1992’s “Feel This”, the album that the JHB was touring to support when this show was recorded. Perennial favorites such as “Confidence Man”, “Angel Eyes”, and his cover of “Roadhouse Blues” – which was featured in the 1989 Patrick Swayze star-vehicle “Road House”, a film in which Healey also appeared – are also represented. And the best is saved for last in the form of a gritty cover of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”.

On the whole, the performance is good and has the added bonus of featuring a keyboardist and a female backing vocalist – something that was a rare occurrence within the context of a JHB concert. However, it’s not nearly as energetic as the 1991 show that’s included on as part of the 3-CD + 1-DVD “Full Circle: The Live Anthology” set that was released in November of last year. Whereas 1991 saw Healey full of energy and included bits where he played his axe behind his head and with his feet, he seems somewhat on the sleepier side throughout this gig. The DVD is fairly lackluster on its own but would have been a superb addition to “Anthology” given that it would have sandwiched itself nicely between the 1989, 1991 and 1995 shows that are included in that box set.

The overall audio and video quality of “Live in Belgium” isn’t great, as it’s clear that the source is a low-resolution video tape. The liner notes (which were, for reasons still unbeknownst, not included in “Anthology”) don’t attempt to hide this, though, and freely admit that the source was “a mess”. Their efforts are truly appreciated as the resultant product is one that achieves the goal of preserving one of a scarce number of JHB shows that were actually documented.

Despite its flaws, “Live in Belgium” is a worthwhile DVD and, for those who aren’t already in the know, more than adequately serves as an introduction to this under-appreciated guitar great’s legacy.

Directed by: Todd Bellanca
Starring: Tom Arnold, Casey T. Evans, Bai Ling
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Arc Entertainment
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 93 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 0 out of 5 stars

“Knockdown” is a boxing movie that is not about boxing, or at least I don’t think it was. The film jumps around so much that you might be down for the count just because of that, so maybe that’s it gets it’s title. Also whatever you do don’t blink or you will miss Tom Arnold role in the film. With a running time just over 90 minutes, it feels like 2+ hours. The film is a action/thriller but the action makes you want to take a nap and there is no thrill at all. Also to make things better there is zero special features included on this DVD. Pass on this film on all accounts.

Premise: Six years ago, American Boxer, JACK THE RIPPER STEMMONS had his undefeated boxing career destroyed by a bookie, who fixed the fight of Jack s life. In a rage, Jack brutally attacks the bookie and must disappear leaving everything he knows behind. Now, exiled half way around the world in Bangkok, Jack falls victim to the exotic and addictive spell of a prostitute, only to learn she has been set in his path by a scheming gangster eager for Jack to jump back into the ring– this time in Bangkok s notorious underground fight clubs. No matter how hard Jack tries to distance himself from his violent past, it always hunts and knocks him down. When a mysterious fight fan arrives in Bangkok, it is only a matter of time before Jack s past, present and future collide in a twisted climax.

Related Content

• Blu-ray Review “Cosmopolis”
• Blu-ray Review “Suddenly (1954)”
• DVD Review “iCrime”
• Film Review “Beware the Gonzo”
• Blu-ray Review “U.S. Marshals”

Directed by: Jourdan McClure
Starring: Bill Moseley, Michelle Page, Lucinda Jenney, Art Alexakis, Chris Coy, Michael Cudlitz
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 81 minutes

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

I watch a lot of horror films and I usually see a lot of the same. “Rogue River” easily stands out among the rest. It is so brutal yet extremely subtle. The film stars Bill Moseley, who is such a horror legend. He does a lot films where he plays the crazy psycho but this one really stands out as some of his best recent work. If you are looking for a great tribute to slow-burn horror this would be the film for you. This has it all character development and yet stills delivers the thrills and the gore. Kudos to first time director Jourdan McClure as well, can’t wait to see what he does next. The film is produced by Vision Entertainment Group, co-owned by Zachery Bryan (TV’s “Home Improvement”) and if they keep it up with film’s like this they are going to be a force to reckon with.

While heading out into the isolated wilderness of Oregon to scatter her father’s ashes, Mara meets Jon, who offers to give her a ride after she discovers her car has been towed by the local sheriff. She would soon regret this decision as she becomes abducted and cannot leave after attending dinner. That is only in the first few minutes of the film though, the crazy shit starts happening when she is thrust deep into their madness and needs to find a way out before it is too late.

The film was only released on DVD, not Blu-ray unfortunately, though looks good in its widescreen presentation. The audio is impressive with its Dolby Digital 5.1 track. The special features are decent starting with a fun cast and crew commentary track. There is also decent behind-the-scenes featurette called “Rogue River: A Look Inside the Madness”. There is also a mix of deleted and extra scenes with “Rogue River: The Extra Bits”. Lastly there is also a trailer gallery included. Horror fans overall this is a MUST WATCH!

Directed by: John Farrow
Starring: John Wayne, Geraldine Page, Ward Bond, Michael Pate, James Arness
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Paramount Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 83 minutes

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

When it comes to Western’s I usually approach cautiously but when it comes to John Wayne I run like a charging bull.  John Wayne is such a legend and this film has such history behind it and it great to be able to finally see it restored on Blu-ray.  “Hondo” just looks fantastic in its 1080p Blu-ray transfer and is presented in 1.78:1 aspect ratio.  There is a bit of grain in places, but overall still looks out of this world.  The audio though is not as impressive especially with its Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track.  It really doesn’t add much to the film, I would recommend sticking with the Dolby TrueHD Mono track, also included. Since the film was originally shot in 3D, hopefully Paramount has plans of releasing this film on Blu-ray 3D in the near future.

“Hondo” is based on the Louis L’Amour story “The Gift of Cochise,” and features John Wayne as a half-Indian Cavalry scout and meets the strong-willed Angie Lowe (Geraldine Page) and her boy, Johnny (Lee Aaker). It is up to Hondo to protect Angie and her son as she is sitting right in the middle danger coming from nearby Native American tribes. As the two grow close, Angie finds out that Hondo, a man hardened by experience, is still capable of sympathy, kindness and love.

The special features are impressive overall.  There is an amazing audio commentary featuring critic Leonard Maltin, Western Historian Frank Thompson, and Actor Lee Aaker.  They focus on everything from the release to the shooting to the film’s 3D aspects. Highly recommended.  “The Making of Hondo” is a three-part feature which features Leonard Maltin talking about the film, its director, the production and again the aspect of 3D.  The next part is called “Profile: James Edward Grant” is a feature focusing on one of John Wayne’s favorite screenwriters.  Lastly ” The John Wayne Stock Company: Ward Bond” takes a looks at John Wayne’s continuous on-screen companion actor.  “From the Batjac Vaults” is a short feature with Leonard Maltin interviewing Michael Wayne, originally aired on “Entertainment Tonight” in 1994.  “The Apache” run just about 15 minutes and takes a look at the Apache history.  Lastly there is a Photo Gallery and Theatrical Trailer.

“SAVE THE DATE” LANDS WITH MAX360 INTERNATIONAL

Foreign Rights Available for the 2012 Sundance Dramatic Competition Film

LOS ANGELES, CA – Max360 International, a newly founded independent multi-platform content and distribution company based in Los Angeles, has acquired the foreign rights to the 2012 Sundance Dramatic Competition Film, “Save the Date”, a modern romantic comedy directed by Michael Mohan, and written by Mohan, acclaimed graphic novelist Jeffrey Brown, and Egan Reich.  The film, Produced byJordan Horowitz (Gilbert Films, “The Kids Are All Right”), Michael Roiff (Night and Day Pictures, “Waitress”), and Michael Huffington(Huffington Productions, “Father vs. Son”) and Executive Produced by Gary Gilbert (Gilbert Films, “Garden State”), stars Lizzie Caplan(“Cloverfield”) Alison Brie (NBC’s “Community”), Martin Starr (“Knocked Up”), Geoffrey Arend (“500 Days of Summer”) and Mark Webber (“Scott Pilgrim vs. the World”)

In “Save the Date”, fiercely independent Sarah (Lizzy Caplan) breaks up with her overeager boyfriend Kevin (Geoffrey Arend) and finds herself caught-up in an intense rebound relationship with new infatuation Jonathan (Mark Webber). Always one to give life advice is Sarah’s sister Beth (Alison Brie), who is diligently planning her upcoming wedding to apprehensive fiancé — and Kevin’s band mate — Andrew (Martin Starr). With heart and humor, all five struggle with the trials, happiness, and pain of modern love.  Simple and honest and always human, “Save the Date” is a contemporary story about the familial and romantic bonds that make us who we are.

“This is our first endeavor with Michael Roiff, Jordan Horowitz and Michael Huffington, and we couldn’t be more excited,” states Elias Axume, President of International Distribution for Max360 International.  “Michael Mohan’s refreshing take on the rom-com genre, coupled with an all-star cast, is sure to bring us success at this year’s market.”

Producers Horowitz, Huffington and Roiff stated, “We’re excited to bring a new style of romantic comedy to the international marketplace and Max360 has already demonstrated wonderful passion in joining us in this endeavor.”

The deal was negotiated by Elias Axume and Jack Campbell, VP of International Distribution, on behalf of Max360 International.  CAA and XYZ Films negotiated on behalf of the filmmakers. Domestic distribution is handled by IFC.

About Max360 International:

Based in Los Angeles, Max360 International, a subsidiary of Max360 Entertainment, is a financing, sales and production company headed by Elias Axume, former President of Maya International and EVP of Myriad Pictures.  The new company is funded by a group of private investors and plans to acquire six to 12  films a year for International and domestic distribution, in a variety of genres that have a universal appeal to all audiences.