Directed by: Kunihisa Sugishima
Network: Cartoon Network
Episodes: 7 out of 51 episodes
Run Time: 154 minutes

Disc Score: 3 out 5 stars

“Beyblade” might be a little out of my age range when it comes to TV shows. I do not have kids yet but I do know how popular the “Beyblade” series is. It was not hard to catch up with this show prior to watching this DVD volume. This first series of “Beyblade: Metal Fusion” consists of 51 episodes, so volume 4 consists of episodes 22-28. Following this series, there is “Beyblade: Metal Masters”, and then Metal Fight Beyblade 4D”, each consists of 51 episodes each as well. I enjoyed this episodes overall.

The following episodes included are “The Fearsome Libra”, which show Ginga, Kyouya, Yu and Madoka are the final four left in the surival battle. “The Road to the Battle Bladers” follow Yu after he won the battle reveals he’s a member of the Dark Nebula. “The Beautiful Eagle” follows the meet of Tsubasa and how he has many secrets. “The Sniper Capricorn” has Kyouya going against Tobio, aka Captain Capri. “Tsubasa Flies Into The Dark” follows Tsubasa as he attempts to join Dark Nebula. “Intruders in the Challenge Match” features Kenta battling in the forest stadium and Hyoma battling in the river stadium. “Dark Gasher’s Big, Crabby-Crabby Operation” is the last episode on the disc and features Tetsuya as he follows Yu back to the Dark Nebula Headquarters.

Besides the episodes, their are no extras but kids will enjoy the fact that this DVD set includes an exclusive code unlocking special features, including the ability to battle other Beybladers on Beybladebattles.com.

Starring: Dave Hester, Darrell Sheets, Barry Weiss, and Jarrod Schulz
Number of discs: 3
Studio: A&E Home Video
Rated: PG
Run Time: 418 minutes

Season 1 Score: 2 out of 5 stars

This show follows storage hunters Dave Hester, Jarrod Schulz/Brandi Passante, Darrell Sheets and Barry Weiss as they battle each other to win units. I am a fan of the show “Auction Hunters”, so I figured I should give this show a go. The show does not have the personality or entertainment that “Auction Hunters” has. Allen Haff & Ton Jones from that show are memorizing to watch on the TV and these guys don’t come close. These people are working these units out of desperation and these people are actually rather sad and I feel bad for them watching.  They are not knowledgeable about the business, which is why this show fails…not everyone can have a reality show. If A&E is reading this review, Dave Hester is the reason why I will not continue to watch this show.

The show takes a different angle on the idea of the show. Since the show has so many different types of personalities, this leads to a lot of fighting, bitterness and battling at each auction. Don’t get me wrong it does make for good entertainment but it also takes away from the reveal of the show. What I like most about “Auction Hunters” is there journey to sell the items and make money. This show features people that have their own shops so the sells are not instant and a lot assumed sales. I did complete watching this season but I will not be tuning in for season two. Check out “Auction Hunters” for a damn good reality auction hunting show.

Episodes includes on season one include:
DISC 1: High Noon in the High Desert / Railroad Roulette / Melee in the Maze / War on the Shore / The Old Spanish Standoff / All Guns To Port / Senior Center Showdown
DISC 2: Midnight in the Gardena Good and Evil / Collector’s Last Stand / School House Lock / Gambler’s Last Resort / Auction Royale / Makings of a Mogul / Trouble the Oil
DISC 3: Chairman of the Hoard / High End Heist / Young with the Gun / Skullduggery / Live and Let Bid

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Directed by: Savage Steve Holland
Starring: John Cusack, David Ogden Stiers, Diane Franklin, Curtis Armstrong, Amanda Wyss
Distributed by: Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG
Running time: 97 minutes

Disc Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Since this is the first time this film has been released on high definition, this review will focus on the Blu-ray transfer. To be honest I felt that the film hasn’t really held up since 1985 like many 80’s classic have. I felt it jumps around quite a bit and for my wife (who has never seen it) was hard to even watch.

For those who have never seen this romantic dark comedy, it stars John Cusack as the awkward, teen Lane Meyers, as Lane after his girlfriend dumps him for a more popular guy. After many unsuccessful attempts to win her back, he decides that suicide is the only answer until he befriends a beautiful foreign exchange student who helps him turn his life around.

This is the first time that the film was converted to 1080p, its 1.78:1-framed transfer holds up but still features some grain throughout the film. The image itself is overall decent and it will not blow away fans of the original film. It does look better than the last DVD but is less than what is expected for a Blu-ray release. I would wait for the 20 year anniversary special edition.

Next up is the sound on this disc which features, DTS-HD MA 5.1, which is ok but the music in the film seems like it is extra loud and is not very crisp. Lastly, the film does not have ANY special features at all, which just adds more insult to injury with this “not so special” high definition release of this film.

HIS UPROARIOUS “LEGALLY BANNED FROM TV” TOUR

CONAN O’BRIEN CAN’T STOP

Featuring Appearances by Jim Carrey, Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart and Others, DVD and Blu-ray™ Debut September 13 Loaded with Deleted Scenes,
Commentary by Conan, Behind-the-Scenes Footage and More

“Hilarious and surprisingly moving.”
– Film.com
A “highly entertaining cross-country extravaganza” (Variety), Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop documents the lauded comedian’s triumphant 32-city music and comedy show, which followed his much-publicized departure from hosting NBC’s “Tonight Show.” Debuting on DVD and Blu-ray September 13, 2011 from Magnolia Home Entertainment, the critically-acclaimed film captures O’Brien’s answer to a contractual stipulation that banned his appearance on television, radio and the internet for six months following his last show.
Featuring O’Brien’s unique brand of off-beat comedy during his live performances along with “behind-the-scenes gold” (Entertainment Weekly), Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop showcases both the funnyman’s prodigious talent as well as his humor and grace during a challenging time in his professional career. Directed by fellow Harvard Lampoon member Rodman Flender, Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop also stars Andy Richter and features appearances by Jim Carrey, Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart, Jack McBrayer and
Eddie Vedder. The DVD and Blu-ray are loaded with a wealth of bonus features including deleted scenes and extra footage, commentary with Conan and crew members, a music video and a Q&A and will be available for the suggested retail prices of $26.98 and $29.98 respectively.

Synopsis
After a much–publicized departure from hosting NBC’s “Tonight Show,” O’Brien hit the road with a 32-city music-and-comedy show. The “Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television Tour” was O’Brien’s answer to a contractual stipulation that banned his appearance on television, radio and the Internet for six months following his last show.

Bonus Features
Deleted Scenes and Extra Footage
Commentary with Conan and Crew
Music Video
Q&A

Inspired By The September 9th Release Of Lionsgate’s WARRIOR, Multi-Tiered Campaign Celebrates Everyday Warriors Among Us

Winner Of Associated Sweepstakes Sponsored by AMC Theatres® To Receive Free Hometown Premiere Of WARRIOR

Santa Monica, CA, August 11, 2011 – The upcoming release of the film WARRIOR, in theatres everywhere on September 9th, has inspired “We Are All Warriors,” a national grassroots and online initiative to identify everyday heroes – the real life warriors among us.

The project is an opportunity for people all over the country to join together to share their stories and answer the central question of WARRIOR: “What Do You Fight For?” From our teachers and coaches to our athletes and veterans, we all fight for something – we are all warriors.  At www.WeAreAllWarriors.com, project participants can answer the question in their own words, nominate another everyday warrior, vote for their favorite warriors and rally friends and family to share their contender via Facebook and Twitter.

“We Are All Warriors” will be promoted through media, corporate and non-profit partnerships on both national and local levels.  With word first spreading through a series of ESPN-sponsored screenings of the much anticipated and inspiring film, which Edward Douglas of Comingsoon.net has called “as powerful and unforgettable as ROCKY,” the program now expands in its official partnership capacity to include a national promotion with AMC Theatres centered around a sweepstakes where one everyday warrior will receive a free hometown premiere of the film at the nearest AMC theatre.

Said WARRIOR’s director Gavin O’Connor of the initiative, “Everyone fights for something- from parents struggling to support families through tough economic times, to soldiers defending democracy, to teachers combating illiteracy, we fight for things that we believe in.   I made this film to celebrate that quality of the warrior within us all, and am proud that this project is reaching out to so many people and inviting them to join in honoring those individuals who embody the qualities of a true everyday warrior.  It all comes down to the question, “What Do You Fight For?” and the broad range of partners and participants so far shows how universal and important this topic is.”

All of the project’s inspirational submissions will remain on the website to be shared with the world – a true army of some of America’s most extraordinary citizens is already forming, including Massachusetts’ lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray who fights for his constituents, beloved wrestler Anthony Robles, submitted by ESPN, who fought to ascend in his sport despite having lost a leg, Dolores Bastrop, nominated by her husband for her tireless fight for the poor, and Mike Hardin, nominated by a “proud neighbor” for fighting for life, when he rescued a mother and child from a mobile home that had erupted in fire in while they slept.

The website will also regularly feature video diaries from both everyday warriors and celebrity guests including prominent bloggers, parents, coaches, troops, actors athletes, and pastors, answering the film’s central question ‘What Do You Fight For?’ in their own words.

About WARRIOR
Rising stars Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton command the screen as two estranged brothers facing the fight of a lifetime­ in Lionsgate’s WARRIOR, a moving, inspirational action drama from acclaimed director Gavin O’Connor (Miracle).

Haunted by a tragic past, Marine Tommy Conlon (Hardy) returns home for the first time in fourteen years to enlist the help of his father (Nick Nolte) to train for Sparta, the biggest winner-takes-all event in mixed martial arts history. A former wrestling prodigy, Tommy blazes a path toward the championship while his brother, Brendan (Edgerton), an ex-fighter-turned teacher, returns to the ring in a desperate bid to save his family from financial ruin.  But when Brendan’s unlikely, underdog rise sets him on a collision course with the unstoppable Tommy, the two brothers must finally confront each other and the forces that pulled them apart, facing off in the most soaring, soul stirring, and unforgettable climax that must be seen to be believed.

A rousing ode to redemption, reconciliation and the power of the human spirit, WARRIOR is also a moving testament to the enduring bonds of family.   WARRIOR stars Joel Edgerton (Animal Kingdom, Star Wars: Episode III), Tom Hardy (the upcoming The Dark Knight Rises, Inception, Black Hawk Down), Jennifer Morrison (“House”, Star Trek) and Nick Nolte (Tropic Thunder, The Thin Red Line).  The film is directed by Gavin O’Connor; screenplay by Gavin O’Connor & Anthony Tambakis & Cliff Dorman and story by Gavin O’Connor & Cliff Dorfman. Lionsgate and Mimran Schur Pictures present a Lionsgate / Mimran Schur Pictures production. A Solaris Entertainment and Filmtribe production.
###

For more information about WARRIOR, visit www.warriorfilm.com.

To answer the question “What Do You Fight For” in your own words, or to nominate a warrior fighting for something important to you, visit: www.WeAreAllWarriors.com.

To view movie trailers, buy movie tickets and see show times at AMC Theatres, visit: www.amctheatres.com.

Join the WARRIOR community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/warriorfilm or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/lionsgatemovies

Nicholas D’Agosto is known for his role in comedies like “Fired Up!” and “Extreme Movie” is switching gears to horror with “Final Destination 5”.  He is the lead in the fifth film in the franchise which he believe it taking the series in a new direction.  Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Nicholas about working on the film and with such a great cast.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us what you liked most about playing the leader Sam in “Final Destination 5”?
Nicholas D’Agosto: I guess for me it was fun because I am guy that lives the longest.  I get to hang around the most [laughs].  It is always nice when you get the work a lot.  It was great.  I really loved that I got to do the action, the heart felt relationship stuff, some comedy and the fight scenes.  I get the whole grab bag.

MG: Did you do any of the stunts yourself?
NDA: We did have amazing stunt crew.  The stunt crew was awesome and they were incredibly important in teaching us what to do.  Most of the big stuff I actually got to do myself which was great.  You can see in the trailer where I jump onto the railing and that I got to do that.  I am on cables but it is still like a 14-15 foot jump.  It was really fun.  I got to do a big fight scene and I did most of that.  It was fun to get to do that stuff.

MG: Did you refer to any of the other films in the series for role research?
NDA: I definitely went back and watch Dewon Sawa character from the first film.  One of the reasons was that females were the leads in some of the other ones, so they are written differently.  With Dewon’s role it is the tone of the entire film, since they are really similarly written.  They tried to make it the same kind of suspense and the same total feel.  Dewon had a different character and a short of different arc, but I definitely went back in to see what I can pick and choose from there. It was great.

MG: How do you feel that this film expands on the series?
NDA: I got say for fans of the franchise this movie will be be as good as the first film.  It is sort of rebooting the franchise in a way.  I honestly think it is the best one.  I think what they did is that they made the film take a new leap.  Steve Quale is the director, he did 2nd unit on “Avatar” and he is just great. The new 3D technology that they are using that came out in the last year on this makes it feel very big, epic, beautiful and rich.  I think that this movie will stand on its own for people that haven’t seen any of the “Final Destination” films.  You do not have to see any of the other films to enjoy this one.  I am very excited about that.

MG: Tell us about working with the rest of the cast?
NDA: We all had a great time working out there.  We hit it off as a group.  They are all different people and we each took on different roles and we all just hit it off.  It was really fun.

MG: What was your most difficult scene to shoot in this film?
NDA: That is a great question…there is a bunch of different scenes.  I would have to say though parts of the bridge sequence.  It was built on three different stages.  One was built a stage on the side of a mountain overlooking the ocean, which was by the way incredibly beautiful.  They built like 300 feet of an actual bridge to scale on this gravel pit.  Then they brought it to a parking lot and then they brought it inside a building.  The hardest part where you are hanging in the air on cables all day or saying the same line over and over.  Over 15-20 days of shooting and trying to maintain a through-line for scenes you have done so many times was hard.  I think that was definitely the hardest…lots of screaming.  My voice was gone for weeks at a time [laughs].

MG: Did the 3D filming affect the filming process for you at all?
NDA: On a technical side, maybe…it doesn’t really change my acting too much.  You can’t put things up in front of the frame.  I remember one time I was telling someone to stop and I had my hand up like you would normally do.  They told me you have to keep it lower and out of frame because it just looks like these floating fingers in front of the persons eyes.  Since whatever is closest to the screen is going to be closer to the person’s eyes.  What I would say it changes is the amount of time you are hanging out on set.  Because the 3D camera is actually two different cameras mounted on a frame, with a mirrored frame that melts the two images together.  Those two tend to fall out of alignment all the time. So there would be days when we would have 3-5 hours of downtime while they were fixing cameras.  Right now it is still kind of a touchy process working with it.  The image gorgeous though and totally worth it.

MG: Earlier this year you co-starred in “From Prada to Nada” and you are no stranger to comedy with “Fired Up!” and “Extreme Movie”, do you prefer comedy genre?
NDA: I do I love it.  I am so fortunate that I get to do both and that people have seen that I can do both.  I don’t always want to do dramas all the time and I don’t want to do comedies all the time. When I did “Fired Up”, Eric (Christian Olsen) and I were just buddies for a couple of months joking around all day on set.  We were joking around on “Final Destination” also but there comes a moment when everyone has to get tears in their eyes [laughs].  So there is a little bit of a different element with that.  The dream is to get to do both the rest of my career.

MG: What do you have planned upcoming?
NDA: I got a movie coming out called “Dirty Girl”.  I have a small part in it but it is a really cool part.  It stars William H. Macy, Dwight Yoakam, Milla Jovovich, Mary Steenburgen and Juno Temple.  It is coming out October 7th.  It is the size of “The Kids Are Alright”, it will be kind of like that.  It is a cool film and definitely a different part for me so I am really excited.

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David Koechner is known best for his role of Champ in “Anchorman”. David is starring in two different films this year, both in the horror genre, “Final Destination 5″ and Piranha 3DD”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with David about his new films as well as his film career and his stand up shows.

Mike Gencarelli: Can you give us some back ground on your character Dennis in “Final Destination 5”?
David Koechner: Dennis is the a-hole boss of the company that doesn’t ever respond to anything very emotionally. I liked to add that he has been divorced twice and that he is desperately trying to hang on to his third wife. He really just is a guy who doesn’t know how to relate or talk to people.

MG:  Tell us about working with the young newcomer cast?
DK: The whole experience was really tremendous. I didn’t know anyone prior to starting the film but I got to know them all during shooting and just fell in love with everyone. They all are very bright, talented, intellectually curious as well as emotionally available [laughs]. I was very impressed with everyone and I thought the story was really good as well. I had not seen any of the other “Final Destination” films but I thought this one was really well written. I remember reading it and finished through with it before I even knew it. It was a really good read and it drew me in. From my perspective everything was aces.

MG: Did shooting in 3D pose any problems for you?
DK: It really doesn’t change anything. When you are acting it’s all a make believe world. Sometimes nothing is there at all and you have to pretend it is there. If anything the aspect of 3D just allows you to stretch your imagination even more.

MG: Since working on this picture did you go back and watch any of the others in the series?
DK: Someone showed me all the kill shots one day on set and I was just laughing my ass off! These films are a real thrill ride more so than a horror film. The films have great tension.

MG: What can you tell us about working on “Piranha 3DD”?
DK: That was really interesting [laughs]. That film pushes boundaries into a couple different areas and was something new for me. I seem to go from one 3D film to another and from one thriller/horror film to another. Maybe I am a scream queen now? [Laughs]

MG: Can you tell us about your character Chet?
DK: Chet is the guy that’s in charge and he is an a-hole. Maybe I am getting type cast as an a-hole? I have certainly played my share of those guys. I don’t know why I do it well? Maybe it’s ironic?

MG: Did you enjoy working in those genres on two films back to back?
DK:  I enjoy working. My wife and I have been blessed with 5 children and they want to eat. In order for them to do that daddy has to work.

MG: Did you notice any comparison’s while working on the films that stood out?
DK: Yes. The budgets! [Laughs] “Final Destination 5” was a big movie and it felt that way. Steve Quale was a master at putting that big ship together as there was a lot to deal with. I don’t know what the budget was for “Piranha 3DD” but it was a more modestly budgeted that’s for sure.

MG: Moving on to “The Office” will we be seeing more of Todd Packer this season?
DK: I hope so. They never let me know prior to the season starting. I did three episodes last year and average about that each season. I’m guessing it will stay the same but I have no way of knowing.

MG: Any chance of you becoming a regular?
DK: Not that they have told me. I think if I was going to be a regular they would have let me know by now. I hear arguments both ways with some people saying they would love to see Todd Packer every week and others that say they wouldn’t watch the show if he was on every week.

MG: There have been rumors floating around about a possible “Anchorman” sequel. Do you think Champ will come back for another film?
DK: I would love it and I know everyone involved with the film would love it and people have been trying to get it made but apparently there is some resistance with the studio. I heard a rumor where some people at the studio said yes to making it and one person in marketing said no. It seems incredible to me and all the people I talk to when I am out doing stand-up that they all want an “Anchorman 2”. I am always getting asked to do lines from the film. The appetite for that film is as ravenous as any sequel that has ever been produced. The other side of the coin is that when those sequels are made it’s a lot of money. I don’t know if they can’t make the figures work or what. I am sure it’s not out of meanness but it’s a business. Everyone I have talked to thinks “Anchorman 2” is a no brainer though for sure!

MG: How do you feel your stand-up gigs differ from your film or television roles?
DK: Live is a lot of fun and its immediate. The only other live that’s immediate like stand-up is if you’re shooting a four camera sitcom. Doing live entertainment is rewarding for everyone involved and it certainly is for me. It also gives me some economic freedom as well as a chance to meet people from around the country that I generally wouldn’t meet. I get to introduce them to other aspects of my performance that they may not have seen before on television or in the movies that are different. My show is pretty personal and the audience gets to know me pretty well.

MG: What other projects do you have in the works?
DK: I have a film coming out in September called “A Good Old Fashioned Orgy”. I have a part in “This Means War” with Reese Witherspoon and Chris Pine. Those are the bigger ones I have coming out. I also am developing some shows for television and you just never know where those might wind up. I continue to write with about seven writers in an effort to get some things off the ground starring David Koechner. My ultimate goal would be to get on a sitcom and be able to stay at home with my family. That would be the best. As much as traveling around selling your work is great, I feel conflicted when I have to leave my family.

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If you are a fan of the series then you are probably dying (not literally) to see this film.  If you are not a fan of this series then you need to get on board because even though this is the 5th film in the series, it has definitely not lost its steam.  “The Final Destination” was released in 2009 and was the first film in the series to be shot and released in 3D.  That was a turning point for this series, since the format seems to be made for 3D.  “Final Destination 5” continues to bring the terror and excitement that is known from this series.  It doesn’t seems like there is an end in sight any time soon for this series yet…Tony Todd has revealed in an interview that if the film is a success, it is possible we will be seeing “Final Destination 6” and “Final Destination 7” as well.

Click here to reach out raving review for the film!!

The story is similar than its predecessors, Sam Lawton, (Nicholas D’Agosto) and he co-workers are heading on a retreat for work and he has a premonition that the suspension bridge they are on will collapse. As the vision becomes reality, Sam and his friends discovers that Death is still after them and they need to race to survive. The film stars Nicholas D’Agosto, Emma Bell, Miles Fisher, Arlen Escarpeta, David Koechner, Courtney B. Vance, Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, Ellen Wroe, P.J. Byrne and Tony Todd. Media Mikes had a chance to interview a bunch of the cast from this film. Check out these interviews and let us know what you think.

Directed by: Steven Quale
Starring: Nicholas D’Agosto, Emma Bell, Miles Fisher, Arlen Escarpeta, David Koechner, PJ Byrne, Tony Todd
Distributed by New Line Cinema
Rated R
Running time: 92 minutes

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

This film is simply the best in the series. If you have seen one “Final Destination”, you know what to except from this film. The last film in the series was titled “The Final Destination” but it kicked started the series and especially since it was in 3D. This film does follow a similar path but the death scenes are the best by far, the 3D is beyond cool and it takes the series in a new direction. Sit back get ready to cover those eyes, laugh, scream and enjoy the hell out of this movie.

The story is similar than its predecessors, Sam Lawton, (Nicholas D’Agosto) and he co-workers are heading on a retreat for work and he has a premonition that the suspension bridge they are on will collapse. As the vision becomes reality, Sam and his friends that maybe they shouldn’t have survive. They start getting picked off one by one in the order that they died in the premonition. They need to find a way to cheat death and survive.

The film stars Nicholas D’Agosto, Emma Bell, Miles Fisher, Arlen Escarpeta, David Koechner, Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, Ellen Wroe, P.J. Byrne, Courtney B. Vance and Tony Todd. I have had the chance to interview quite of few of the cast and I have heard some really great stories about this film and how much fun it was to work on. What is great about this cast is that it has a little bit of comedy spread through it, so the film is laced with a nice combination of horror and comedy. Because if you don’t by know this series like to have fun with it death scenes and make you both laugh and scream at the same time.

So even though “The Final Destination” was in 3D, this film takes it to a whole new level right from the opening credits. You had people jumping and screaming throughout the film. I haven’t been in a theater in a long time when the audience reacted the way that they did for this. The death scenes were so well planned and over the top like always but nothing was predictable this time around. Every horror fan should see this film and especially if you are a fan of the series. It is hard to believe that a franchise that is entering its fifth film in the series could have this much steam left…but hey look at “The Fast and the Furious” series.

Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Danny McBride and Aziz Ansari
Directed by: Ruben Fleischer
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 23 mins
Columbia

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

In August 2003, a 45 year old pizza delivery man named Brian Wells walked into a bank in Erie, Pennsylvania with a bomb strapped to his chest and attempted to rob it. Foiled by the police, Wells told the cops that the bomb had been forcibly strapped to him by several men who ordered him to rob the bank. If he didn’t bring them the money the bomb would explode. Not believing Wells, the police detained him. BOOM! Not the type of story you’d think one would make a comedy about but the creators of “30 Minutes or Less” have done just that.

Nick (Eisenberg) is a young slacker with no drive. When he’s not home playing video games he’s delivering pizzas around town. Due to his company’s “30 Minutes or Less or your pizza is free” policy he can usually be found running red lights and speeding excessively. He has two friends: schoolteacher Chet (Ansari) and his twin sister, Kate (Dilshad Vadsaria), who he is desperately in love with. When Kate shows surprise that Nick isn’t on Facebook he replies that he’s completely “off the grid,” a nice nod to Eisenberg’s Oscar nominated performance as Facebook co-creator Mark Zuckerberg in “The Social Network.” As Nick drives aimlessly from one address to another, across town 30-something Dwayne (McBride) is aimlessly blowing up things with the help of his friend Travis (Nick Swardson), a master of all things technical. Dwayne lives at home with his lottery winning father, a former Marine referred to as the Major (Fred Ward). The Major can’t stand Travis’ lazy ways. Travis can’t stand the fact that the Major is blowing through the winnings he’s hoping to inherit. One way to hasten that inheritance is to have the Major killed. But a hit man costs money.

Continuously funny from start to end, “30 Minutes or Less” rides on the talents of it’s cast. Eisenberg, who managed to make Mark Zuckerberg seem almost likable, is off beat as Nick. It’s a persona he has down to a tee and he conveys it well. As Chet, Ansari is both the voice of reason and the voice of mayhem. No matter how hard he tries to convince Nick to go to the police he continues to feed on the high of helping his friend pull off the heist, suggesting they follow the plan devised in the movie “Point Break.” Swardson has made a career of playing slightly vacuous characters (“Grandma’s Boy,” “Blades of Glory”) and does the same here. As the hit man for hire, Michael Pena shows a talent for comedy. But the star here is McBride. His dim, fantasy-world-living Travis gives the film its best laughs. Between his recent on-screen work and his performance as Kenny Powers in HBOs’ “Eastbound and Down,” he may be the funniest actor working these days. To play off the title of the film, Danny McBride delivers!

In case you were wondering, it turned out that Brian Wells was a willing participant in the bank robbery mentioned above, though speculation remains that he didn’t know the bomb was real. His co-conspirators were eventually apprehended and are serving the next few decades in federal prison. Maybe they’ll get a chance to see “30 Minutes or Less” on “movie night.”

P.J. Byrne is having one heck of spotlight year in 2011 with both “Final Destination 5” and “Horrible Bosses”.  He is also leading his voice to the new TV series, “The Last Airbender: The Legend of Korra”.  Media Mikes had a chance to chat with P.J.’s, one of the funniest and nicest guys I have ever had the privileged of speaking with, about his new films and also what else he has planned next.

Mike Gencarelli: You have not one but two movies out this summer, “Final Destination 5” and “Horrible Bosses”, tell us about those?
P.J. Byrne: New Line has been really good to me and they are a great group of people. Some people seem to think that New Line is fading away, but that not true. “Horrible Bosses” did really well and hopefully “Final Destination 5” does the same. They really went for with this film and spent some money with this fifth film. They had Steve Quale directing, who is like a 3D stud. They got a dope writer as well plus a really great cast such as David Koechner, Courtney B. Vance and Tony Todd. They also brought some younger actors such as Nicholas D’ Agosto, Emma Bell and Miles Fisher. I don’t know why they put me in the movie or what the heck I am doing here! [laughs]

MG: How was it working with the 3D for “Final Destination 5”?
PJB: In any venue you work in you always want to be honest, genuine and true. You want to be in the moment and that’s your first goal as an actor.  If its a comedy or drama you want to play the moment as real as possible and make interesting choices. When your dealing with 3D, sometimes the box you are playing in gets a little smaller as they are always playing with the 3D effects. There are certain things that may cause the camera to pop back or cause an annoyance for the viewer, so things get a little tighter. Then there are certain scenes where its not as much about the 3D. I like to say that’s when they unleash me. That’s my arena and at that moment and its more about the character moments than the 3D, so your just making a movie in those places.

MG: What can you tell us about your character?
PJB: Isaac is the guy that, for those of you who work in an office, always irks you or gets under your skin. That person always seems to find a way to piss you off and Isaac is that guy. He isn’t really friends with anyone and all he really cares about is himself, chicks and getting chicks for himself [laughs]. Those are the only three things in his head. This is a character that I think people will cheer for to die! You just hate him so much and hopefully it will be a little funny when he goes down. Viewers know going into these films that the group of people you see in the beginning who don’t die will eventually die at some point in the film.  It should cause a myriad of emotions and when he finally does go down, human qualities take over and you think to yourself maybe he wasn’t that bad and shouldn’t have gone out in that terrible way [laughs].

MG: Going from horror to comedy, what drew you to the character Kenny in “Horrible Bosses”
PJB: That’s like the easiest question I could answer! I was going to get to meet Jennifer Aniston with my pants down! That’s what drew me to it, as it would draw any man in America to play this part. Working with Jennifer Aniston with your pants around your ankles is it and I don’t think there should be anything else.

MG: Was the film as funny to shoot as it was to watch?
PJB: It was great! I can’t wait since I was told there is going to be a bunch of scenes added to the DVD, which are hysterical. There’s a scene where I am propositioning the guys to help them out and that was one of those scenes where I was unleashed. Needless to say I shared with them the different ways I could please them and make them happier and just  handle them all at the same time, as that’s how gifted I am [laughs].

MG: How was it working with such a great cast?
PJB: The fact that they put me in that movie was crazy, as everyone was famous. I had no idea why they picked me but, thank you so much! All the good things you here about these people in the film are true. They are all very genuine and super smart. They are great to work with as an actor. Every take was different and interesting, as we all were bouncing things off each other and I hope that shows in the movie.

MG: What can you tell us about your upcoming voice over work on “The Last Airbender: The Legend of Korra”?
PJB: This is interesting as Nickelodeon has been very hush, hush. I think I am allowed to tell you that I play Bolin who is one of Korra’s buddies. Aang is gone and now Korra is the new Airbender. My character Bolin is kind of the comic relief.  He’s around 16 years old and he is an earth bender. So don’t mess with me cause I will shut you down in the animation world or at least make you a very pretty seat [Laughs].

MG: What can you tell us about your role in the upcoming film “K-11”?
PJB: I play a bad ass attorney, which is really cool. It’s a nice transition role, as in the beginning I maybe come across as sort of out of my league but by the end me and Goran Visnjic have this great scene where we go head to head and I shut him down! We started shooting yesterday and Jules Mann-Stewart is a great director. She has been doing this for a really long time and understands how to make a movie. She is such a sweetheart and everyone who is working on the film is there for her. I think since everyone is behind the director and that’s when you get a successful movie. “Final Destination 5” was very similar. I have been blessed with working with great casts and I have never seen any of those diva moments that you hear about or guys going crazy. We all just worked together to make a great movie, as we all had long days both in make-up and in front of the camera. There’s not a lot of sleep and people can get punchy but we didn’t allow it as we were all there for the same things. It was great and we are all close friends still to this day.

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Who Killed Allison Parkes?

Find out when Director Richard Gabai’s “InSight” hits theaters on September 2nd.

Shot in the seedy Boyle Heights district in Los Angeles, InSight follows Kaitlyn (Natalie Zea), an ER nurse who while tending to a young stabbing victim, Allison, is accidentally electrocuted by the defibrillator that was being used to save the woman’s life. Almost immediately she starts to experience the victim’s memories. Kaitlyn turns to family, friends, and the police, but no one takes her seriously, so she takes it upon herself to solve the crime – as the terrifying visions threaten her sanity.  Ultimately, Kaitlyn teams up with detective Peter Rafferty  (Sean Patrick Flanery) and weaves her way through the victim’s past in an attempt to discover the brutal truth about the murder and herself.

“InSight” stars, Sean Patrick Flanery (Boondock Saints, Powder, Saw) , Natalie Zea (Justified, Californication) Adam Baldwin (Chuck,  Independence Day, Full Metal Jacket) Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future, Taxi, Star Trek, Aadams Family) Thomas Ian Nicholas (American Pie, Rookie of the Year) Max Perlich (Blow, Cliffhanger) Juliet Landau (Ed Wood, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Veronica Cartwright (Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Alien, Witches of Eastwick, The Birds.)  Angeline-Rose Troy is introduced as Allison Parkes.

PARTIAL THEATER LIST (growing every day!)… THEATER UPDATES will be found here:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=134429686644880

“InSight” is the first release for Check Entertainment Distribution, a new company founded by and for Independent Filmmakers. Independent films have been squeezed off of the big screen for too long and CED has a plan to change all that.

Braeburn Entertainment and Celco present a Check Entertainment/G.C. Pix LLC Production.  Directed by Richard Gabai, Written By Aaron Ginsburg and Wade McIntyre; Produced by John Constantine, Larissa Michel, Richard Gabai, Executive Producers Elaine J Constantine, Richard Iott; Co-Producers Scott Peck, Devon Iott, Heather Longerbeam; Editor Jeff Murphy; Director of Photography Scott Peck; Production Designer Gabor Norman.

CAST on IMDB:

Sean Patrick Flanery: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001218/
Natalie Zea: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0954036/
Adam Baldwin: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000284/
Christopher Lloyd: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000502/
Thomas Ian Nicholas: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005272/
Max Perlich: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001611/
Juliette Landau: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0484460/
Veronica Cartwright: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001021/
Angeline Rose Troy: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2894027/

DIRECTOR Richard Gabai: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0299923/

MOVIE Official IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1687277/combined

GENRE:
Psychological Thriller /  Drama / Murder Mystery / Supernatural / Horror /

MOVIE TRAILER:

INSIGHT movie trailer:
http://www.insightthemovie.com

APPLE TRAILERS:
http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/independent/insight/

PHOTOS & POSTER & BIOS :
http://questpictures.com/insight/press.html

OFFICIAL MOVIE LINKS:

http://www.insightthemovie.com

IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1687277/combined
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/insightthemovie

“OFF THE BOULEVARD” TAKES VIEWERS ON AN INSPIRING JOURNEY

Executive Producer Troy Duffy, in partnership with Santo Films, releases
“OFF THE BOULEVARD” a documentary feature film

Featuring industry insights from Peter Fonda (Easy Rider), Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Sonny Barger (Hell’s Angels), Dan Haggerty (Grizzly Adams), and Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam).

Los Angeles, August 10, 2011 – Troy Duffy (Creator of The Boondock Saints franchise) announced today the pre-sale availability for the launch of a documentary feature film, “Off The Boulevard,”  he executive produced in partnership with Santo Films. 

“It’s an interesting and educational behind-the-scenes look at the struggles fellow independent artists go through in pursuit of their dreams,” says Executive Producer Troy Duffy. “It gives us an inside look at the tough lives of some up-and-coming independent artists.  As we watch them fight their way through the industries of music and film, we glean words of wisdom from successful veterans of the entertainment business.”

Off The Boulevard is a story of art and heart and the dedication it takes to achieve your dreams. It is an entertaining and informative documentary feature film about seven artists: two musicians (Nick Nicholson, Keith Jackson), two filmmakers (Troy Duffy, Jeff Santo), two actors (David Della Rocco, Sanel Budimlic), and one comedian (Bob Rubin), whose friendships are created through struggle and perseverance.

The film features industry insights from well-knowns such as: Peter Fonda (Easy Rider), Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Sonny Barger (Hell’s Angels), Dan Haggerty (Grizzly Adams), and Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam).

“Off The Boulevards follows seven artists on different paths but with the same goal- to fulfill their dreams,“ says Jeff Santo, Director.  “This film transcends the world of entertainment and my hope is it will inspire all who strive to pave their own road.”

Ain’t It Cool News claims it’s “Phenomenal in every sense of the word. 4 stars.” Detroit Metro Times writes it’s “Essential viewing for anyone getting ready to go up against a giant.”

Available now for pre-order exclusively at: www.santofilms.com and www.BoondockSaints.com  at an introductory rate of $14.99.    (Autographed copies available for an additional fee.) (Pre-orders at this introductory rate are available through Sept. 7^th)  DVD begins shipping Sept. 7th, 2011.

Viewers can look forward to several intriguing bonus clips featuring highlights from the film such as celebrity interviews and Troy Duffy rehearsing with Boondock Saints II cast members. 

Approximate Running Time: 96 minutes

About Santo Films

www.santofilms.com

Jeff Santo has over 17 years of dedicated Independent Filmmaking experience in all aspects of creating and selling Independent Films. Jeff has written, directed, and produced four Feature Films. His first film, ‘Liar’s Poker’, had an exclusive Blockbuster Video release in 2000 and sold in every major foreign market. His second film and first Documentary Feature, ‘This Old Cub’, had a six month theatrical run in 2004 and was Independently Distributed by Jeff and his team, selling over 40,000 DVDs exclusively on its own website. Santo Films also sold directly to retail stores, selling a total of over 75,000 DVDs to date.  In 2008, Jeff’s third film, an Independent Family Drama ‘Jake’s Corner’, was released theatrically.  He is currently in distribution with ‘Off The Boulevard, ‘ a Documentary Feature Film he envisioned, directed and produced.  Jeff teaches Film School at S.C.C. in Arizona and has been a featured guest speaker at several Independent Film Distribution seminars.

Directed by: Luke Greenfield
Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Kate Hudson, John Krasinski, Colin Egglesfield, Steve Howey, Ashley Williams
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures
Rated: PG-13
Run Time: 113 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

After watching Ginnifer Goodwin in “He’s Just Not That Into You”, I thought she was going to become very popular. She was cute, very likeable and funny. I didn’t really feel teh same aspect when watching this film. This film was a little two by the book romantic comedy. It didn’t really have any edge. I am opened minded to some romantic comedies, but it has to have something different and not follow the typical formula. Kate Hudson is funny, as well is John Krasinski. It is a shame he hasn’t he it big yet as a starring lead. Overall certain women might consider this film “cute”, in the word of my mother. But I will send in my RSVP regretfully declining.

The Blu-ray disc is packed with extras including: “Something…Old?”, which has the stars of the film chatting about turning 30. The author of the book, Emily Giffin takes us behind the scenes “On Location Tours”. Steve Howey offers women pointers on the extra “Marcus’s Guide to the Ladies”. “What is “Something Borrowed”?” has the cast of the film discussing marriage and the meaning of the wedding. The gag reel is always funny even if you did not like the film. Lastly there is additional scenes called “Left Off the Guest List”, they are good but glad they got cut the film is already about two hours.

Official Site: http://somethingborrowedmovie.warnerbors.com/dvd
Click here to purchase the Blu-Ray/DVD combo at the WB Shop.

Synopsis: Rachel is a talented attorney at a top New York law firm, a generous and loyal friend, and unhappily, still single?as her engaged best friend Darcy is constantly reminding her. But after celebrating her 30th birthday, perpetual good girl Rachel unexpected ends up in the arms of the guys she?s had a crush on since law school, Dex who just happens to be Darcy’s fiancé. As one thing leads to another in the frantic weeks leading up to Darcy’s wedding, Rachel finds herself in an impossible situation, caught between her treasured friendship with Darcy and the love of her life.

POLITICS MAKES STRANGE BEDFELLOWS IN THE SEXY, ROMANTIC COMEDY

Brian White, Mallika Sherawat, Academy Award^®* Nominee Ruby Dee AndLoretta Devine Lead A Sensational Cast In The Irresistible Film

Politics of Love Will Premiere On Demand September 1 And Debut On DVD September 13 From Codeblack Entertainment

UNIVERSAL CITY, CA – Opposites attract and sparks fly in the bi-partisan romantic comedy Politics of Love. After an initial theatrical release set to begin in August,
Politics of Love will premiere on Comcast and Time Warner Cable’s Video On Demand systems September 1st and on DVD September 13th from Codeblack Entertainment. Politics of Love features hot new stars on the rise Brian White (Tyler Perry’s forthcoming feature Good Deeds) and Bollywood bombshell Mallika Sherawat (Murder). Sherawat, an accomplished Indian actress with a trailblazing attitude and fearless commitment to confronting social stigmas, is known for pushing boundaries and taking risks with the roles she chooses while at the same time bridging cultural divides. White is not only known for his work on stage, television and film but also for his activism within the community and dedicating his time and efforts to empowering youth though his charitable organization Black Carpenter. Politics of Love also stars Loretta Devine (For Colored Girls, Crash, “Grey’s Anatomy”), Oscar Nominee* Ruby Dee (American Gangster) and Gerry Bednob (The 40 Year Old Virgin).

The world’s hottest election gets even hotter when a sexy, savvy African-American conservative Republican, Kyle Franklin (White), meets a beautiful Indian-American Obama campaign volunteer, Aretha Gupta (Sherawat) and sparks fly inside and outside of the office. As the campaigns intensify, can the power of love conquer all for this mismatched pair of lovers in the electrifying days leading up to Election Day?

With a compelling message about the need for unity and understanding—both in politics and relationships—Politics of Love strikes a chord whether you’re a conservative, liberal or somewhere in between. The film will be available On Demand through digital cable and satellite TV (check your local listings), and on DVD for the suggested retail price of $19.97.

Politics of Love can be seen in select theatres August 26.

Synopsis

Politics makes strange bedfellows, but never stranger than when a sexy, savvy, African-American conservative Republican reluctantly falls for his Democratic counterpart: a beautiful Indian-American Obama campaign volunteer. Sparks fly, tempers flare, heads turn, and romance blossoms for his mismatched pair of lovers in the frantic and intoxicating days leading up to Election Day. Can the politics of love conquer all?

VIDEO-ON-DEMAND BASICS

Street Date:   September 1, 2011

Cable Carriers: Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cox, DirectTV, Echostar IPVOD, Cable Vision, Verizon V-Cast, TVN, Charter, AT&T U-Verse

Language: English

Running time: 89 minutes

Rating: NR

DVD BASICS

Price: $19.97

Street Date: September 13, 2011

Order Date:  August 9, 2011

Catalog Number: CM3274

Language: English

Running time: 89 minutes

Rating: NR

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