“Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)”
HBO Films
Director: Colin Hanks
Runtime: 83 min
Our score: 4 out of 5 stars
“Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)” follows the American rock band Eagles of Death Metal as they recount their experience before, during and after the tragic terrorist attack at their concert in Paris on November 13th 2015. Directed by Colin Hanks the film spotlights the deep bond of friendship between co-founders Jesse Hughes and Josh Homme as well as the connection the band has with their fans. This relationship along with the groups feeling of responsibility to help Bataclan survivors deal with the physical and emotional wounds is the premise for “Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)” and what brings the band back to Paris just 3 weeks after those attacks.
Sadness, anger, hope and happiness are just some of the emotions you will be exposed to by watching HBO Films latest documentary “Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)”. The entire world was impacted by the terrorist attacks on November 13th 2015 none more so than those who survived it, the families of those who did not and the band who was playing on stage at the time of the attacks. Director Colin Hanks is direct in his approach as he does a great job capturing the emotions of the band and fans through candid interviews as they prepare to return to Paris just 3 short weeks after the attacks with hopes of unity and to provide some level of comfort to those still struggling with the lingering effects of the attacks.
More than just your typical behind the scenes rock doc “Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)” delves deep in to not only the bands love of their fans but also the extremely strong bond between front man Jesse Hughes and drummer Josh Homme. Friendships this strong are a rarity and throughout the course of the films 83 minutes you can clearly see how this life long bond is transferred to crowds around the world. Even in the darkest of moments this relationship seems to serve as the foundation for the bands strength in moving forward. If you watch one documentary this year it should be this one.
“Eagles of Death Metal: Nos Amis (Our Friends)” premiers
Actors: Idris Elba, Richard Madden, Charlotte Le Bon, Kelly Reilly, Jose Garcia
Directors: James Watkins
Rated: R
Studio: Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: February 7, 2017
Run Time: 92 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars
I find it shocking that a film like “The Take” haven’t been given much attention at all, especially sine it stars Idris Elba, which is quite popular right now from “Star Trek Beyond” and upcoming “The Dark Tower” adaption of the Stephen King novels. The film is a by-the-book action thriller. It has some great moments but then gives into the typical “saw that coming” moments. This is worth checking out on a rainy day. Just go in blind and keep expectations low.
Official Premise: Idris Elba (Star Trek Beyond) stars as Sean Briar, a rogue CIA agent who isn’t afraid to step on a few toes to solve a case. While roaming the streets of Paris, a pickpocket (Richard Madden, TV’s Game of Thrones) swipes a bag containing a bomb and inadvertently ruins a bank heist attempt by corrupt French government officials. Now labeled as a terrorist threat and running for his life, the only person who can save him is Sean. This unlikely duo joins forces to solve the case before they become victims in a devious plot of international conspiracy.
“The Take” arrives as a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD. The Blu-ray is presented in 1080p with DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround. I was impressed with the audio track for sure and it definitely showed up during the action sequences. The special features are strongly lacking. There is only one extra included, which is “Making The Take”, which briefly takes us behind-the-scenes into the film.
Actors: Keanu Reeves, Willem Dafoe, Dean Winters, Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen
Director: Chad Stahelski
Rated: R
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: February 7, 2017
Run Time: 101 minutes
Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars 4K Ultra HD: 5 out of 5 stars Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars
“John Wick” was easily one of the best films of 2014. It is fresh, raw and not afraid to give you the middle finger. Keanu Reeves is beyond badass in this movie…simply beyond. It is just an insane movie and has become the start of a fantastic new franchise. This new combo pack includes a 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital HD + UltraViolet copy. Let me just say that if I wanted to show off my 4K TV and player with movie. I have a new flagship Blu-ray to demonstrate the features, no questions. This is a must purchase.
Official Premise: An ex-hitman comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters that took everything from him. With New York City as his bullet-riddled playground, “John Wick” (Keanu Reeves) is a fresh and stylized take on the “assassin genre.”
“John Wick” is one of the movies that I would highly recommend this is worth the upgrade to 4K UHD. The 2160p transfer in 2.40:1 looks outstanding. There is a huge increase in detail for this film obviously due to the higher resolution. When I compared the Blu-ray to this, I was literally blown away. This release contains the same Dolby Atmos track that was included on the Blu-ray release, and it is still as amazing. Wall-shaking! The 4K Ultra HD disc comes with the same set of special features as the previous Blu-ray release. There is an audio commentary track, six featurettes and a trailer.
Actors: Matt Ryan, Camilla Luddington, Jason O’Mara, JB Blanc, Ray Chase
Directors: Jay Oliva
Number of discs: 2
Studio: Warner Brothers
DVD Release Date: February 7, 2017
Run Time: 76 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
“Justice League Dark” is the 27th DC Universe Animated Original movie believe it or not. They have been cranking them out recently. Honestly, it took me third sittings to complete this film. It really didn’t interest me much in the first half as it got the story ready and then I felt like it was rushed in the second half. It is rated R, which definitely gives it the edge it needed but it wasn’t what I was really hoping for from “Justice League Dark”. At least it brought back Matt Ryan, who plays Constantine in the story lived recent TV series to voice the character.
Official Premise: When innocent civilians begin committing unthinkable crimes across Metropolis, Gotham City and beyond, Batman must call upon mystical counterparts to eradicate this demonic threat to the planet. Enter Justice League Dark, reluctantly led by the Hellblazer himself, John Constantine. Like Batman, Constantine is a cunning, often cynical loner who is the best at his chosen profession – but quickly realizes the sinister forces plaguing the planet will require help from other supernatural alliances. Forming a new “league” with sorceress Zatanna, otherworldly Deadman, and Jason Blood and his powerful alter ego Etrigan the Demon, this team of Dark Arts specialists must unravel the mystery of Earth’s supernatural plague and contend with the rising, powerful villainous forces behind the siege – before it’s too late for all of mankind.
Other than Matt Ryan reprising his role, the rest of the voice cast is impressive as well. Jason O’Mara (“Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D”) voices Batman again, Camilla Luddington (“Grey’s Anatomy”) voices Zatanna, Nicholas Turturro (“NYPD Blue”) as Deadman, Ray Chase (“Final Fantasy XV”) as Jason Blood/Etrigan, Roger R. Cross (“24”, “Arrow”) as John Stewart/Swamp Thing, Jeremy Davies (“Justified”) as Ritchie Simpson, Rosario Dawson (“Daredevil” TV series) as Wonder Woman, Jerry O’Connell (“Stand By Me”) as Superman, Enrico Colantoni (“Flashpoint”) as Felix Faust, and Alfred Molina (“Spider-Man 2”) as Destiny. So no shortly are talent here!
The deluxe edition combo pack includes a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy in addition it also comes with a pretty kick ass Constantine collectible figure. The special features are solid as usual for a DC Original Movie. There is a cool “Sneak Peek at Teen Titans: The Judas Contract”, the nextDC Universe Original Movie. “The Story of Swamp Thing” gives a look at the fan favorite character. “Did You Know?: Constantine origin, Color of Magic, Black Orchid, and Deadman Casting” goes behind-the-scenes with cast/crew. There is the 2016 NY Comic Con Panel included as well as two bonus episodes “From the DC Vault”: Batman: The Brave and the Bold, “Dawn of the Dead Man!”Batman: The Brave and the Bold, “Trials of the Demon!”.
Actors: Leonard Cohen, Martha Wainwright, Teddy Thompson, Nick Cave, Kate McGarrigle
Directors: Lian Lunson
Rated: PG-13
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: February 7, 2017
Run Time: 103 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
“Leonard Cohen: I’m Your Man” is a film that is over 10 years old but this is the first time that the documentary focusing on the legendary singer-songwriter, Leonard Cohen, and features performances of his songs by those musicians he has influenced is being released on Blu-ray. If you are a Leonard Cohen fan, I mean who isn’t, and have never owned this film, this is a good time to honor this very talent individual and his music. Crazy to thing that he is gone from us but at least we have films like this celebrating him.
Narrated by Cohen himself, the film features performances by artists like U2, Rufus Wainwright, Nick Cave, Jarvis Cocker, Antony, Martha Wainwright and Beth Orton and others singing Cohen’s songs. Here is the official premise: Sure to please both die-hard Cohen fans and the newly initiated, this film is full of captivating music and offers an intimate portrait of a truly singular artist — poet, songwriter, cultural icon.
Lionsgate is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and Digital HD copy included. There are some solid bonus features included on this Blu-ray. There are exclusive performances not seen in the movie by Martha Wainwright, Perla Batalla, The Handsome Family, and Teddy Thompson that are worth checking out for sure. There is also “A Conversation with Leonard Cohen” and an audio commentary with the director, Lian Lunson, included. Worth checking out if you are a hardcore fan.
Actors: Danny McBride, Walton Goggins, Kimberly Hebert Gregory, Georgia King, Sheaun McKinney, Busy Philipps
Directors: Jody Hill, Danny McBride, David Gordon Green
Number of discs: 2
Studio: HBO
DVD Release Date: February 7, 2017
Season: 3.5 out of 5 star
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars
“Vice Principals” is the latest project from HBO’s “Eastbound & Down” co-creators Danny McBride and Jody Hill. It is a set series with two seasons and 18 episodes total. The first season consisted of 9 episodes was pretty kick ass and definitely left me wanting more. Definitely excited to see what they have cooked up for the second half of the series. Danny McBride and Walton Goggins are awesome together and play off each other really well. I would have loved to see this series go longer than just two seasons but I also appreciate when something has a proper beginning and end. Definitely worth binging on before season two airs this year.
Official Premise: In this new comedy series “Vice Principals”, the longtime principal of a suburban high school steps down, leading ambitious vice principals Neal Gamby (McBride) and Lee Russell (Goggins) to both set their sights on the vacated top spot. But when new rival Dr. Belinda Brown (Kimberly Hébert Gregory) enters the picture, these bitter antagonists must form an unholy alliance to bring down the outsider by any means necessary.
HBO is releasing this season as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and Digital HD copy included for this show. The special features are decent and worth checking out if you enjoyed the show. Who doesn’t love a good Blooper Reel?! This Blu-ray packs a bunch of solid laughs with this one included. There are audio commentaries for each of the episodes, which is awesome with cast/crew participating. This was a great way to re-watch the season and get to enjoy it more due to the comments. Lastly there are a bunch of deleted/alternate scenes included that are worth checking out.
Actors: John Travolta, Kate Bosworth, Devon Sawa, Gil Bellows, Julie Benz
Directors: David Hackl
Rated: R
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: February 7, 2017
Run Time: 98 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars
“Life on the Line” is the latest film starring John Travolta and surprisingly packs a solid supporting cast including Kate Bosworth, Devon Sawa and Sharon Stone. Besides the fact that Travolta looks terrifying on the cover with his facial hair and strange hairline. I am still a fan at heart! This film definitely has problems but it also has some decent action-packed moments. So I will call it a toss up for everyone and a maybe for us Travolta fans.
Official Premise: As a huge electrical storm sweeps towards Texas, lineman Beau (John Travolta) is haunted by memories of his brother’s death by lightning years earlier. Bailey (Kate Bosworth), the niece he helped raise, has a secret she needs to share with her boyfriend Duncan. But he and Beau’s brave team are racing to replace miles of power cables before the tempest strikes. Also starring Sharon Stone, Life on the Line is a tribute to the heroes who risk it all to keep us safe.
“Life on the Line” is being released as a combo pack with Blu-ray and Digital HD included here. The Blu-ray is presented in 1080p with DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround. Both looks and sounds great especially when the action kicks in. The special features aren’t great though. There is a “Life on the Line” Music Video by Fiona Culley featuring Darius Rucker and some Behind the Scenes with Cast/Crew Interviews included.
Director: Tyler Perry
Starring: Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis, Yousef Erakat, Diamond White, and Bella Thorne / Tyler Perry, Cassi Davis, Yousef Erakat, Diamond White, Bella Thorne, Jimmy Tatro
Distributed by: Lionsgate Films
Release Dates: January 31, 2017
Running time(s): 103 / 134 min
Boo! A Madea Halloween: 3 out of 5 stars
Madea on the Run: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-rays: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars
To kick off 2017, we have not one but two new Tyler Perry Blu-ray’s coming out. “Tyler Perry’s Boo! A Madea Halloween” is the first and was had in fact a very successfully run at the box office last year. “Madea on the Run” is a stage play filmed for Blu-ray. I have never seen a Tyler Perry play to date and this was very enjoyable. “Boo!” was silly fun like all Madea films. Worth checking out both if you are a fan of Tyler Perry’s most famous character.
“Boo! A Madea Halloween” Official Premise: Madea winds up in the middle of mayhem when she spends a hilarious, haunted Halloween fending off killers, paranormal poltergeists, ghosts, ghouls and zombies while keeping a watchful eye on a group of misbehaving teens.
“Madea on the Run” Official Premise: On the run from the law, Madea hides out at Bam’s house, thinking she will lie low. Unfortunately, Bam’s house is packed with rambunctious family and friends, and Madea finds herself needing to lay down her own law and drop the hammer!
Lionsgate is releasing both of these films as a combo pack with Blu-ray + UltraViolet included. For “Boo!”. The AV is average for the comedy genre. Looks good and sounds good enough with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. In terms of special features, only “Boo!” has them included other than the Digital HD copies. We get two behind-the-scenes featurette. The first is called “Why We Love Madea!” and the second is “Boo! From the Crew Montage”, nothing special on either. “Madea on the Run” does not have any additional bonus features.
Actors: Walter Catlett, Frankie Darro, Cliff Edwards, Dickie Jones, Charles Judels
Directors: Ben Sharpsteen, Hamilton S. Luske
Rated: G
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: January 31, 2017
Run Time: 88 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars
“Pinocchio” has never been one of my favorite Disney movies. It is very dark and intense in certain parts but on the other hand some parts are so classic like the song “When You Wish Upon a Star”. So I will treat this film like a classic and since it is nearly 80 years old give it a break. This is not the first time that “”Pinocchio” has been released on Blu-ray. Back in 2009, it was released as a 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition and now it is getting the “The Signature Collection” release. It is a big of a cash in cause the only major give we are getting is a Digital HD copy (which is definitely cool) and a few new extras. If you have never owned this, now is the time. If you already do it is a flip of the coin to be honest.
Official Premise: Pinocchio tells the tale of wood-carver Geppetto’s beloved puppet who embarks on a thrilling quest – with faithful friend Jiminy Cricket – that tests his bravery, loyalty and honesty, all virtues he must learn to fulfill his heart’s desire: to become a real boy.
Disney is re-releasing this movie as a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD copy. Nothing has been changed in terms of AV on this release from the previous release. The 1080p transfer looks sharp for this nearly 80 year old movie. The colors are crisp and the animation looks awesome. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is honestly not what I would expect from a 7.1 track, feels like its not getting to its full potential. In terms of special features there is all the previous content included back on the “70th Anniversary Platinum Edition” release, which some of it includes an Audio Commentary By Leonard Maltin, Eric Goldberg, and J.B. Kaufman, a few making of featurettes, deleted scenes and music videos.
Some of the new content included is worth checking out for sure but I wouldn’t rush out to buy this if I already owned the previous Blu-ray unless I really needed that Digital HD copy. “The Pinocchio Project: When You Wish Upon A Star” is a short two parter looking at the music video featuring JR Aquino, Tanner Patrick, and Alex G and a behind-the-scenes look. “Walt’s Story Meetings: Pleasure Island” are taken from the transcripts in the Disney vaults and features sketches and photographs from the design team as well as interviews with Director Pete Docter and Historian J.B. Kaufman. “In Walt’s Words – Pinocchio” is old archived footage from 1956 talking about the film and the times. Lastly, “Oswald The Lucky Rabbit In ‘Poor Papa'” is an all new cut of the vintage black-and-white animated short released special for this Blu-ray. Didn’t really capture the interest of my nearly 5 year old.
At 37-years-old, Director/Writer Patrick Rea is already making a name for himself in horror circles around the country. Since graduating from the University of Kansas in December 2002, Patrick has made dozens of short films and collaborated with other directors and writers on even more. He’s starting to get his footing as a feature-film director and took time out of his busy schedule to talk with MediaMikes about his latest film, “Arbor Demon,” which was a part of the Panic Fest lineup in January and premiered on video-on-demand on February 3rd.
Jeremy Werner: Not to steal one of the questions from one of the fine folks that attended Panic Fest, but I loved the answer you gave at it. So I have to ask, where did the inspiration for “Arbor Demon” come from?
Patricka Rea: It was a combination of things. When my wife and I were dating, we went camping one night at Lake Perry, near Lawrence, Kansas. In the early hours of the morning, there was an altercation that occurred between two other campers near our tent. After the fight ensued, one of the campers decided to hop on a rusty four-wheeler, with a deer skull on the front, and drive angrily around the campgrounds, narrowly missing our tent. My wife and I were pretty freaked out, but to cut the tension, I joked that it would be funny if something came out of the woods and attacked them, so we could get a good night’s sleep. That was where the seed of the idea came from. Once Michelle Davidson and I actually started writing the screenplay years later, my wife was pregnant, so the story really shifted to dealing with a woman’s pregnancy, along with being trapped inside a tent.
JW: What was it that Davidson brought and added to the script?
PR: Michelle is a great screenwriter and a terrific partner. Our process is really about going back and forth with ideas and solving problems within the story. She added so many layers to the script and really brought a fantastic female perspective. The movie is primarily a female driven story, and Michelle took that aspect to the next level. She also is a mother of two, and has a lot of experience to draw upon.
JW: I remember hearing that this script, including the name of the movie, has changed over time. What was it that changed and why?
PR: The original title of the film was “Enclosure”. It has played at a number of film festivals with that title and will continue to carry that name overseas. The biggest reason for the change was that distributor wanted the film to be more visible to consumers on Video On Demand. Since the film now starts with an “A”, it will be higher up on the listings.
JW: The creature in the movie, you really don’t get a good look at it until the end. But when you do, you notice all these different look quirks about them. What hand did you have in crafting the creature and what inspiration did you draw from?
PR: Davidson and I worked hard to come up with a fresh take on the monster. I enjoy drawing, so I sketched out ideas for the design. Eventually, we hired Megan Areford (“VHS: Viral,” “Cooties” and “Sharknado”) to handle make-up effects. She took my initial artwork and made some of her own sketches, which were incredible. From there she started working on the actual prosthetics for the creature and we communicated over Skype.
JW: Since the woods and nature plays a role in the movie, was there anything you manipulated in the woods you filmed in?
PR: I would say that we spent a good amount of time just trying to find unique trees and formations in the woods that would enhance the setting and story. But, in terms of actual manipulation, we built a small forest, designed by Production Designer, Leslie Keel (“May,” “Red” and “Welcome to the Jungle”) on a soundstage around the tent. This was to create the illusion that we were still in the woods when shooting all the tent interiors. This also allowed us to control the lighting and sound.
JW: What horror inspirations do you draw from when writing and directing?
PR: The early work of John Carpenter has always been a big influence on me, from the framing of the shots, to the pace and storytelling skills. I’m also inspired by directors like Wes Craven, Sam Raimi and of course Steven Spielberg. At this point in my career, I like to read about the challenges they faced while making their films. It helps me feel better when I have various roadblocks to overcome during the process.
JW: You’ve done a lot of shorts in the past and a handful of full-length movies…which one do you tend to gravitate more towards and enjoy working on?
PR: Well, I prefer doing feature films, but I love making short films. Short form filmmaking allows me to experiment with new equipment, crew and ways of telling a story. There are a lot of films that I don’t think should exist outside a smaller duration, so I tend to gravitate to those types of projects between features. I think I’ll always make short films, if nothing else to keep my storytelling skills sharp. Making a feature can take years, so it’s good to keep putting out shorter work in order stay on everyone’s radar.
JW: Obviously, this is your career. This your passion and love. What’s something outside that horror genre that you’d be interested in experimenting with and what are you working on next?
PR: I’m working on a number of things, including a CBS kids show titled “The Inspectors” which airs on Saturday mornings. Right now, Michelle and I are getting our next horror feature off the ground, that is a fresh spin on the imaginary friend story. As for experimenting, I really want to direct a high-concept sci-fi film. Just waiting for the right project to come along.
Starring: Asa Butterfield, Britt Robertson and Gary Oldman
Directed by: Peter Chelsom
Rated: PG-13
Running time: 2 hrs
STX Entertainment
Our Score: 1 out of 5 Stars
Have you ever seen a movie and afterward thought, “well, that’s two hours I’ll never get back?” Well, the makers of “The Space Between Us” owe me four hours. Because that’s how long it felt like it took this sci-fi-rom-com to tell me the story of the first person born on Mars and his quest to visit Earth.
Present day. A manned mission is being sent to Mars. Everyone is checked out medically and they’re off. Unfortunately it appears that the programs physician was a doctor, like Bill Cosby used to refer to himself as a doctor. It seems one of the lady astronauts is pregnant. As if she was married to “Bonanza’s” Ben Cartwright, she dies in childbirth, leaving the other astronauts, including the maternal Kendra (Carla Gugino) to raise him. Jump ahead 16 years and the young boy, named Gardner (Butterfield) is a thin, lanky, big-eyed boy longing to know what life on Earth is like. His existence has been kept secret by the mission’s benefactor, Nathaniel Sheppard (Oldman), who comes off here as less Richard Dyson and more Richard Nixon, not wanting the story of the astro-mom’s death to get out, fearing his funding will dry up. Gardner spends his days working around the space station, occasionally breaking the rules by going outside to drive like Dale Earnhardt, Jr. across the surface of the Red Planet. To appease Garner, they decide to operate on him, strengthening his bones with carbon rods and installing an item nears his heart because, in the weightless gravity of Mars, his body will not develop properly. His heart will become too big and the journey to Earth may kill him. Sadly, it doesn’t.
What a horrible film! While I applaud the premise the execution is horribly hit and miss. It’s as if the filmmakers already know that the audience has checked out of this film at the 10-minute mark. While on Mars, Gardner makes an Internet (Inter-world) chat partner who goes by the name Tulsa (Robertson). Tulsa is a foster child who lives with an alcoholic crop duster pilot, who apparently only lets her live with him for the monthly check. Gardner has told Tulsa that he lives in a Penthouse apartment in NYC and can’t go outside because of a medical condition. Tulsa just assumes Gardner is afraid to meet up. When he returns to Earth, Gardner easily escapes (apparently there are NO security guards at NASA, where people come and go, interrupting space missions and press conferences with ease) and meets up with Tulsa. They duo begin a journey to find Gardner’s father, a man he’s never met, going only on a photo of his mom and the man outside a beach house. Of course, like E.T., in the Earth’s gravity and atmosphere Gardner begins to get sick. Will he survive to meet his pop? After what you’ve just read, do you still care?
The film is full of horribly bad clichés and unbelievable plot points. A trip to the local warehouse store, where they purchase items using stolen cash and credit cards, reveals that Tulsa is a budding, and terrible, songwriter. Even though they are being hunted down she takes the time to sit at the electric piano display at COSTCO and serenade anyone within earshot. They then head to Vegas, where Tulsa takes advantage of the Strip to show Gardner “the world,” including Paris, Shanghai and Venice. Keeping one step ahead of the law, they decide to steal an unassuming car. Apparently the highways are full of bright red early 1970s Lincoln Continental convertibles, because not once do they attract the attention of law enforcement. When they reach the beach, Gardner comments that in the past few days he’s done things he always dreamed of, like touch water. What in the hell do they shower with on Mars (or any space station). And why did all of the establishing shots of the Mars compound show Gardner constantly walking over a footbridge, under which is a pool of water. Was the kid too damn lazy to just walk over to the edge and put his hand in? Believe me, the only thing this movie is missing is Chloe Grace Moretz, who has starred in my choices as the “Year’s Worse Film” twice in the past three years (“If I Stay” and “The 5th Wave”). Thankfully I think I’ve found my winner for 2017 so the next 11 months of movie-going should be enjoyable for me. Director Chelsom also gave us “Hannah Montana: The Movie,” which means I’m pretty sure what’s going to be playing on the double-bill at the drive-in in Hell.
I’ve always said that I’ll give any film at least one star because it’s in focus. This movie was in focus. Do yourself a favor and put as much space as possible between yourself and “The Space Between Us.”
Starring: Fiona Dourif, Kevin Ryan and Jake Busey
Directed By: Patrick Rea
Rated: Unrated
Running Time: 100 minutes
Gravitas Ventures
Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Things aren’t exactly going well for Charles (Ryan) and Dana (Dourif). They are getting ready to celebrate their anniversary, by returning to the spot where Charles proposed to Dana, and their different perceptions of life and long term goals are beginning to show. While Charles doesn’t exactly seem to know it yet, the trip is a way to patch up the relationship as it exists now and take it another step forward with Dana’s recent discovery at the doctor. She’s pregnant.
Charles isn’t the most enthusiastic about having children, seeming to ignore kids they encounter in public and jokingly saying that they’re not the kind of married couple that’ll have kids. However the risk of impregnating Dana doesn’t ever slow down his insatiable sex drive. There’s an impending sense of doom as they enter the woods, but things get eerie when they encounter a drunken group of hunters, firing wildly into the air and making a ruckus at the dead of night.
The encampment of drunks is attacked by an unseen force and soon Charles, because he’s a paramedic, makes it his duty to risk his life and take in an injured member of the group, Sean (Busey). The trio hunkers down inside the flimsy safety of an orange tent as something sinister stalks around in the woods, blending in with the surroundings. But it doesn’t attack. That’s because it may want Dana.
Lacking jump scares and jolts of fright, “Arbor Demon” seems more interested in the tension that evolves inside the tent that Dana, Charles and Sean are cowering in. When not focused on backstabbing survivalism, the movie peels back layers of its own mythology, touching upon the supernatural elements of nature and it’s deep connection to motherhood. It’s not until the end that the “demon” reveals itself and we understand why Dana is the treasured prize of the creature lurking in the woods.
Dourif, who’s probably sick and tired by now of hearing about how much she looks like her father, carries the fear of Dana of well through her eyes, breathing and physical reactions. Dana isn’t just fearful of the creature, but seemingly more fixated on if her marriage can survive the bombshell that she’s carrying Charles’ child. It plays into the third act and the movie floats away from its horror elements, finding more fun by playing with Indian mythos and supernatural components.
The story evolution helps break-up the potential monotony of your run-of-the-mill terror in the woods plotline. “Arbor Demon” isn’t going to scare you, but it does give the viewer a moment of reflection about how humanity and nature are so closely related, yet we constantly forget about it. “Arbor Demon” says a lot about gender roles when you get down to it. Dana seems to have an understanding while Charles and Sean seem to be in fight-or-flight mode.
Actors: Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong’o, Martin Kabanza, Taryn Kyaze
Directors: Mira Nair
Rated: PG
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: January 31, 2017
Run Time: 124 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Usually, I stay clear of true-life Inspirational films in general. Not my typical come of tea, so to say. I was draw to this film due to the Disney brand and the casting of the wonderful Lupita Nyong’o (even though her role isn’t huge). Like I thought this really wasn’t a film for me but it also wasn’t a bad film. Don’t forget here we are dealing with the rather tame topic of chess, so this is not a shoot ’em up action film for sure. The performances from the talent involved were fantastic and left me with inspired for sure. So if you enjoy these type of movies, I would surely recommend this.
Official Premise: “Queen of Katwe” is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl (Madina Nalwanga) from the streets of Uganda whose world changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion. It is a remarkable story of perseverance against all odds that will leave viewers feeling humbled and inspired. According to director Mira Nair, “The triumph of the human spirit is not to weep for what we don’t have but to focus on what we do have and allow that to take us to a place we never imagined possible.”
Disney is releasing this film a a combo pack with a Blu-ray + Digital HD included. The 1080p transfer captures the film’s setting perfectly and really looks solid. Same can be said for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. I enjoyed the score a lot. The special features are impressive as well. “Queen Of Katwe: Their Story” looks into the people behind-the-scenes who made this movie. “A Fork, A Spoon & A Knight” is director Mira Nair’s short film about Robert Katende. “In The Studio With Alicia Keys” focuses on the film’s song, which its music video is also included. Lastly there is an audio commentary with the director, Mira Nair and eight deleted scenes included with director intros.
Actors: Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher, Zach Galifianakis, Gal Gadot, Patton Oswalt, Maribeth Monroe
Director: Greg Mottola
Rated: PG-13
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: January 17, 2017
Run Time: 105 minutes
Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars
“Keeping Up With The Joneses” is a film that probably looks great on paper. They got a fantastic cast including Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher, Zach Galifianakis, Gal Gadot, Patton Oswalt. These are all top notch talent but the film itself just feel rather generic and not memorable at all. If you dig the cast like myself, it is worth checking out. I don’t regret watching it but at the same time I feel like I wasted 105 minutes and could have done something better with that time.
Official Premise: Go deep undercover in this hilarious action-comedy with an all-star cast including Zach Galifianakis, Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher and Gal Gadot. An ordinary suburban couple finds it’s not easy keeping up with the Joneses — their impossibly attractive and ultra-sophisticated new neighbors — especially when they discover Mr. and Mrs. Jones are covert spies embroiled in international espionage.
20th Century Fox released this as a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD included. The 1080p transfer looks solid, no major complaints there. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 is definitely a surprise but doesn’t really get a chance to show off its stuff. The special features are very special. There are two featurettes including “Spy Game” and “Keeping Up With Georgia”, which cover the behind-the-scenes with the cast/crew and lastly there are some deleted scenes included.
Actors: Manu Bennett, Malcolm McDowell, Marci Miller
Directors: G.J. Echternkamp
Rated: R
Studio: Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: January 17, 2017
Run Time: 93 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
“Death Race 2050” is produced by the king of cult classics, Roger Corman, creator of the original “Death Race 2000”, which introduced us to an actor known as Sylvester Stallone. “Death Race 2050” is an insane no-holds barred re-imagination of the original cult classic and stars Manu Bennett (“The Hobbit”) as Frankenstein and Malcolm McDowell (“A Clockwork Orange”) as the Chairman. This is a must see if you are looking for a wild ride and a great ode to the good ole cult classic genre.
Official Premise: Legendary filmmaking icon, Roger Corman, is back with his most outrageous film yet in this sensational, action-packed and darkly humorous reboot of the original Death Race 2000! It’s the year 2050 and America is controlled by an all-powerful corporate government ruled by The Chairman (Malcolm McDowell). The masses have been brainwashed with violent virtual-reality entertainment. The event of the year is the Death Race, in which a motley crew of violent drivers compete in a cross-country road race, scoring points for shamelessly running people over and driving each other off the road. The reigning champion and fan favorite, Frankenstein (Manu Bennett), who’s half-man half-machine, wants to take the crown, but his rebel spy co-pilot threatens his legacy.
universal is releasing “Death Rae 2050” as a combo pack with Blu-ray = DVD + Digital HD copy included. The 1080p transfer works perfectly with the visual overload of the film. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track nails with the action sequences. Great A/V combination! Special features are worth checking out for some cool featurettes. The first is “The Making of 2050”, which dives into this film behind-the-scenes with great detail from cast/crew. “Cars! Cars! Cars!” looks into the drivers and the stunts. Lastly “The Look of 2050” discusses the visual style of the film.
