3D Blu-ray Review “Flying Swords of Dragon Gate 3D”

Actors: Jet Li, Kun Chen
Directors: Hark Tsui
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Indomina
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Run Time: 122 minutes

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

“Flying Swords of Dragon Gate 3D” is a re-imagining of 1992’s “New Dragon Gate Inn”. It is a real kick-ass action film, which gives Jet Li a chance to shine. After seeing “The Expendables 2”, his role was so trivial and  I was dying for some real Jet Li action. If that isn’t cool enough this is directed by Tsui Hark. who has directed some of my favorite films like “Zu Warriors from the Magic Mountain” and the “Once Upon a Time in China” series, also starring Jet Li. The film was shot entirely in 3D and really looks amazing, thanks to Chuck Comisky, the visual-effects supervisor for James Cameron’s “Avatar”. Highly recommended for all fans of Li or action in general.

Official Synopsis: Three years after the disappearance of the enigmatic innkeeper Jade and the massive fire that consumed the Inn, a new Dragon Inn has risen from the ashes, staffed by a band of marauders. Masquerading as law-abiding citizens by day, they use the cover of night to continue their true calling as fortune hunters. For legend says that the Dragon Inn is the site of a lost city buried in the desert – and a treasure that spans dynasties hidden deep within. As they await a storm strong enough to unearth the hidden fortress, they are surprised by the arrival of a pregnant concubine and her mysterious protector, Ling. They have come seeking the sanctuary of the Inn – as two factions from the Imperial City close in on them to claim her unborn child. Leading the Imperial Assassins is the merciless Eunuch, Yu who hopes to reclaim the Emperor’s child before she can fall into the hands of the righteous General Zhao.

The 1080p transfer is extremely impressive within its 2.39:1 aspect ratio.  Besides the 3D action, which is amazing, Cinematographer Choi Sung-fai delivers some beautiful colored landscapes, which real pop. This also goes the same for the 2D version of the film, I just prefer and recommend watching it in 3D. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is perfect but only its original Mandarin language.  The English track is unbearable to listen to and turns the film into a comedy with the voice overs.  The only problem is that I am not a big fan of reading subtitles in 3D but it is really the only way to watch it.

The special features are found on the standard 2D Blu-ray disc and are good but they are also only in SD.  Firstly, there is a two part “Making of Flying Swords of Dragon Gate”, which both together runs about 15 minutes.  There is a look into some of the film’s production but looks like it was shot on a cell phone.  There is about 20 minutes of interviews with the film’s cast and filmmakers.  There is another 30 minutes feature looking behind-the-scenes, which includes some good detail but has some sound issues.  Lastly there is a trailer included for the film.

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Win Run-of-Engagement Passes to See “Dredd 3D” [ENDED]

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EACH WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

 To celebrate the release of “Dredd 3D”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 5 pairs of run-of-engagement passes to see this new film. If you would like to win one of these great passes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite sci-fi superhero.This giveaway will be open until September 25th at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States. Only one entry per person, per household; all other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

The future America is an irradiated waste land. On its East Coast, running from Boston to Washington DC, lies Mega City One- a vast, violent metropolis where criminals rule the chaotic streets. The only force of order lies with the urban cops called “Judges” who possess the combined powers of judge, jury and instant executioner. Known and feared throughout the city, Dredd (Karl Urban) is the ultimate Judge, challenged with ridding the city of its latest scourge — a dangerous drug epidemic that has users of “Slo-Mo” experiencing reality at a fraction of its normal speed.

During a routine day on the job, Dredd is assigned to train and evaluate Cassandra Anderson (Olivia Thirlby), a rookie with powerful psychic abilities thanks to a genetic mutation. A heinous crime calls them to a neighborhood where fellow Judges rarely dare to venture- a 200 story vertical slum controlled by prostitute turned drug lord Ma-Ma (Lena Headey) and her ruthless clan. When they capture one of the clan’s inner circle, Ma-Ma overtakes the compound’s control center and wages a dirty, vicious war against the Judges that proves she will stop at nothing to protect her empire. With the body count climbing and no way out, Dredd and Anderson must confront the odds and engage in the relentless battle for their survival.

The endlessly inventive mind of writer Alex Garland and director Pete Travis bring DREDD to life as a futuristic neo-noir action film. Filmed in 3D with stunning slow motion photography sequences, the film returns the celebrated character to the dark, visceral incarnation from John Wagner and Carlos Ezquerra’s revered comic strip.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Bait 3D”

Directed by: Kimble Rendall
Starring: Phoebe Tonkin, Xavier Samuel, Julian McMahon, Sharni Vinson
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Release Date: September 18, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

Anchor Bay really scored a winner with “Bait 3D”.  The film was shot natively shot in 3D and really delivers some great entertainment.  I watch many creature films, especially on Syfy.  I was hopefully this wasn’t going to be another one of those.  Well it was way more than I expected.  This is what “Shark Night 3D”, should have been like.  “Bait 3D”, really brings the action and very well for that matter.  The special effects are very impressive for this film especially with the great white sharks.  The story is a little laughable but well-executed.  Overall it is one hell of a fun time. Besides being a kick-ass film though, “Bait 3D” also features a stellar ensemble cast including Xavier Samuel (“The Twilight Saga: Eclipse”), Sharni Vinson (“Step Up 3D”), Alex Russell (“Chronicle”), and Julian McMahon (TV’s “Nip/Tuck”).

Official Premise: This intense 3D thriller tells the story of a group of survivors in a sleepy beach town who suddenly find themselves trapped inside a submerged supermarket, following a freak tsunami. As they try to escape to safety, they soon discover that there is a predator among them more deadly than the threat of drowning—vicious great white sharks lurking in the water, hungry for fresh meat. As the bloodthirsty sharks begin to pick the survivors off one by one, the group realizes that they must work together to find a way out without being eaten alive.

It is also being released a combo pack with the 3D and 2D version of the film on one Blu-ray and a seperate DVD version of the film.  I really recommend this film in 3D though. The effects are fantastic and include some great in your face moments. The 1080p transfer works well with the 3D effects as well and delivers a very sharp video.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also packs some heat and works well with the non-stop action. The special features though are very lacking there is another a gallery of original production storyboards included.  I would have love to seen more focus on the 3D, the sharks and the overall production.

 

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Film Review “Finding Nemo 3D”

Directed by: Andrew Stanton
Starring: Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Alexander Gould, Willem Dafoe
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
Release date: September 14, 2012
MPAA Rating: G
Running time: 100 minutes

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

“Finding Nemo” is one of Pixar’s best films to date.  It not only has heart but is action packed and has some of the best jokes ever. I mean the fine touching in this film are just amazing.  One of my favorite are after the mines explode, a little bubble comes up behind two bird sitting on the water surface and one says…”Nice!” and flies away.  Classic! I remember seeing this film in theaters back in 2003 and like a fine wine, “Finding Nemo” gets better with age. It is hard to imagine that this film came out almost 10 years ago now. With a child of my own now (4 months old), I just can’t wait to share this film with her. Watching the film on the big screen was just such a wonderful experience again, the film itself pops off the screen…literally (more on that in a little bit). But the highlight of seeing this film is sitting in the theaters again was watching it with all the kids that are seeing it for the first time.  Just listening to their reactions to the characters and laughing at the jokes was just priceless.  Oh BTW if that all isn’t enough, did I mention the film is in 3D now.

As with past Disney 3D re-releases like “The Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast”, this film looks just amazing.  There are a few stand out scenes like the first encounter with Bruce the Shark.  I seriously got goose bumps, when this scene came on the screen.  The Deep Sea Angler scene was also very impressive as well, including a few great jumps from the audience. The 3D on the scenes are honestly worth the price of admission alone. Besides those the overall depth of the presentation looks very impressive overall. To be honest though, the 3D really wasn’t the main draw for me on this release.  I just wanted to experience this film on a big screen once more.  I think kids though are really going to be blown away and eat up the third dimension effects for sure.  They even have collectible kids 3D glasses that are mini orange swimming goggles. Trust me you will leave the theater quoting the film.  “Where I am going? I’m going to P. Sherman – 42 Wallaby Lane, Sydney.  If you can’t make it to theater to see this film in 3D, don’t worry the Blu-ray comes out for the first time on December 4th, 2012.

Albert Brooks as Marlin and Ellen DeGeneres as Dory are really such a wonderful cast together. There is just something so timeless about these characters. In fact that is one of the things that Pixar is so great at doing…creating memorable characters. They characters have changed everything.  Whenever you see a clownfish or a Pacific Regal Blue Tang, you always think now, it’s Nemo or Dory…sorry Marlin. Disney is very smart in re-releasing this film, especially in 3D and I highly recommend it. Next up we have the re-release of “Monsters Inc” in 3D this December and also if you are looking for more “Finding Nemo”, director Andrew Stanton recently announced there is a sequel currently in development and is to be released in 2016.  This will land the sequel 13 years after the first film, following the similar path of the 11 year span between “Toy Story 2 & 3”. I have a felling that they are going to do this sequel up real good.  But until then, don’t miss the opportunity to see this great film in theaters again and experience i for the first time in 3D.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Ghosts of the Abyss 3D”

Directed by: James Cameron
Starring: James Cameron, Bill Paxton
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: September 11, 2012
Running Time: 60 / 90 minutes

3D Theatrical Edition: 4 out of 5 stars
Extended Edition: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of of 5 stars

After being on a withdrawal from “Titanic”, I remember running out to see “Ghosts of the Abyss” in IMAX 3D. This was before 3D was in regular theatres, IMAX was the only way without red and blue glasses to see a film in the third dimension. The documentary follows director James Cameron and actor Bill Paxton, director from 1997 film “Titanic” as they travel to the final undersea resting place of the fated ship of dreams. The film itself is very interesting and gives some really great footage of the sunken beauty.

This release looks absolutely fantastic on 3D Blu-ray. Obviously the 3D looks far better then it did in theatres almost 10 years ago. The depth on the effects are very intense and really takes you exploring through the remains of the ship. Besides the 3D disc, this three-disc combo pack also comes with a Blu-ray (2D) of the film and also a DVD copy. The 3D disc presents the theatrical cut of the film, which runs 60 minutes. Though there is the extended edition of this film, which is located on the 2D Blu-ray and it runs 90 minutes. I enjoy the 3D tighter version a lot more, especially since the film was made to be watched in 3D.

The 1080p video resolution is overall very impressive and even though the film takes us to a dark park of the ocean, it is still sharp and bright. The film is also presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The audio on this is also very impressive with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The score takes advance of this feature the most. The special features on the release are disappointing though if you don’t count the extended edition as an extras (which I don’t). The first extra is called “Reflections From the Deep”, runs 30 minutes, and is a 6-part feature with James Cameron, Bill Paxton, and other crew chatting about shooting the film and the CH work that went into the project. The only other extra is called “The Cheese Sandwich Prank”, which is a very short clip of more unseen footage from the expedition.

Premise: Academy Award-winning Director and master storyteller, James Cameron journey’s back to the site of his greatest inspiration – the legendary wreck of the titanic. With a team of the world’s foremost historic and marine experts and friend Bill Paxton, he embarks on an unscripted adventure back to the final grave where nearly 1,500 souls lost their lives almost a century ago. Using state-of-the-art technology developed expressly for this expedition, Cameron and his crew are able to explore virtually all of the wreckage, inside and out, as never-before. With the most advanced 3D photography, moviegoers will experience the ship as if they are part of crew, right inside the dive subs. In this unprecedented motion picture event, made especially for IMAX 3D theatres and specially outfitted 35MM 3D theaters across the country, Cameron and his team bring audiences to sights not seen since the sinking 90 years ago and explore why the landmark vessel – more than any shipwreck – continues to intrigue and fascinate the public.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Titanic: Limited 3D Edition”

Directed by: James Cameron
Starring: Leonardo Dicaprio, Kate Winslet
Number of discs: 4
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Paramount Home Entertainment
Release Date: September 10, 2012
Running Time: 194 minutes

Titanic 3D: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

When you hear the word 3D conversion, most avid film-goers will cringe. Though you can relax with this film since the 3D is nothing short of amazing and breathtaking. The film looks like it was even originally shot in 3D. The 1080p presentation is easily one of the best on the Blu-ray format. As is the film’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, definitely the highest of high definition audio presentations. I mean what else did you expect honestly from Mr. James Cameron. The film is the second highest grossing film to Cameron’s latest “Avatar” and deserves such an amazing presentation. Within this four-disc combo pack, the breakdown of the discs are as follows: Disc one is the Blu-ray 3D movie- part one, Disc two is the Blu-ray 3D movie- Part Two, disc three contains a standard Blu-ray (with the film in 2D) + three filmmaker commentaries and disc four includes the bulk of the special features with never before seen footage. Lastly there is also a Digital Copy included (wish it was Ultraviolet though).

To be honest knowing how much love that Cameron put into this 3D conversion that there are no 3D bonus content included on the 3D discs. Nonetheless this release is extremely jam-packed with special features. The first disc including the three audio commentary tracks, all from 2005. I guess everything was said well the first time so no need to revisit it for this release. I would have liked to seen Cameron do a track just on the 3D of the film. On disc three, we get three commentary tracks. The first is with James Cameron and he covers all aspects of the film from beginning to end. This is obviously a must-listen commentary track, no question. Next up. there is an audio commentary from Historians Don Lynch and Ken Marschal. This is a very technical and thorough commentary track but still a must for all people interested in the history of the Titanic.

Lastly, there is an packed audio commentary with a crazy amount of cast and crew, also from 2005. This is single biggest commentary track that I have ever seen, so I going to try and split it up. There are 15 members of the cast participated, including primary cast of Gloria Stuart, Kate Winslet, Frances Fisher, Bill Paxton, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates. Also included is Bernard Hill, Danny Nucci, Ioan Gruffudd, Lewis Abernathy, Jason Barry, Jeanette Goldstein, Jonathan Hyde, Suzy Amis and Victor Garber. On the production side there is Executive Producer Rae Sanchini, Producer John Landau, Second Unit Director Steve Quale, First Assistant Director Josh McLaglen, Camera Operator/Steadicam Jimmy Muro, Director of Photography Russell Carpenter, Costume Designer Deborah Scott, 4-Ward/VFX Supervisor Robert Skotak, Art Director Martin Laing, Production Designer Peter Lamont, Unit Production Manager Kevin De La Noy, Digital Domain-VFX Supervisor Rob Legato and Stunt Coordinator Simon Crane. Composer James Horner, Music Editor Joe Rand, Re-Recording Mixer Gary Rydstrom and Sound Designer/Re-Recording Mixer Christopher Boyes cover the sound of the film, as well as its music and score. Some miscellaneous crew including Deep Dive Technology Coordinator Ralph White, Core Extra Ellen Mower, Core Extra Judy Prestininzi and Etiquette Coach Lynne Hockney. Most had been recorded separately and later edited together, but they are well edited and works well.

Moving on to disc four, we get the bulk of the special features starting off with two fantastic documentaries.  The first is called “Reflections on Titanic”, runs just over an hour long.  It is a four-part look at the this epic film. Cast and crew speak on setting the sinking of the ship against a classic romance. The feature covers the film before it’s release, during its releases and evening leading into its 3D conversion and 3D premiere. Easily one of my favorite features.  Next up with have “Titanic: The Final Word with James Cameron”, which runs just over an hour and a half.  I had watched this prior on the Bio Channel, I believe.  I wasn’t a big fan of it but it still deserves to be checked out. It features James Cameron and eight other field  experts discussing what really happened to the RMS Titanic.

There are about an hour of deleted and extended scenes, all which include optional commentary from James Cameron.  These also are the last of the extras to be presented in HD.  The rest are all in 480p standard definition. There are 31 production behind-the-scenes short featurettes, each running about 1-3 minutes. Included are “Upside Down Wreck Miniature”, “1912 Morph Transition VFX”, “Digital People”, and “Iceberg/Deck VFX”, just to name a few of my favorites. Continuing with the production side of the extras, “Construction Timelapse” is a look into the making of the ship with optional Ed Marsh commentary. “Deep Dive Presentation” is a narrated tour with James Cameron through the wreckage of the Titanic. “$200,000,001: A Ship’s Odyssey” is a montage of behind-the-scenes footage from the crew, basically a long gag reel. There are three featurettes on the “Videomatics” including an intro, “Sinking Sequence” and “Deep Dive”.  There are also four short but sweet featurettes focusing on the “Visual Effects” with “VFX Shot Breakdown: “Engine Room””, “VFX How-To For “I’m Flying”” and “VFX How-To For “First Class Lounge”” and lastly, “Titanic Sinking Simulation”.

Rounding up these astounding amount of extras, we get to some of the archive material.  There is a music video for “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion.  There are many trailers and TV spots included as well as a still gallery. There is a reproduction of his script included, storyboards, photographs, as well as concept posters and one sheets from both the 1997 and 2012 releases. Lastly there are Titanic Parodies including the MTV’s ‘1998 Movie Awards’ Skit, Saturday Night Live’ Skit from January 9, 1999 and ‘Titanic’ in 30 Seconds. So overall, this release is obviously a MUST-PURCHASE!!! One of my favorite releases of the entire year! I can finally enjoy the film in not only HD but also 3D, while not having to worry about getting up many times to use the bathroom.

 

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Complimentary Passes to the Orlando, FL Screening for Disney·Pixar’s “Finding Nemo 3D” [ENDED]

ALL PASSES HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN EMAILED! THANKS AGAIN!

If you would like to enter for a chance to win tickets to the following advance screening below, please leave a comment below with your favorite “Finding Nemo” character.  Tickets are limited and will be chosen on a RANDOM BASIS on Friday September 7th.  ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON PLEASE! OTHERWISE ALL ENTRIES WILL BE DISREGARDED. The winners will be will notified then via email and will be instructed how to pick up the tickets.  Good luck and hope to see if you at the screening!

Theatre: AMC Downtown Disney
Date:  Saturday, September 8, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM
Format: 3D

FILM: FINDING NEMO 3D (in Disney Digital 3D™)
BANNER: Disney·Pixar
RELEASE DATE: Friday, September 14, 2012
GENRE: 3D Animation/Comedy/Adventure
DIRECTOR: ANDREW STANTON
CO-DIRECTOR: LEE UNKRICH
PRODUCER: GRAHAM WALTERS
MPAA Rating: G
Short attached: Partysaurus Rex (Rated G)

Website and Mobile site:             Disney.com/FindingNemo
Become a fan on Facebook:        Facebook.com/PixarFindingNemo
Follow us on Twitter:                  Twitter.com/PixarFindingNemo

Academy Award®-winning film “Finding Nemo” returns to the big screen for the first time ever in thrilling Disney Digital 3D™. In this stunning underwater adventure teeming with memorable comedic characters and heartfelt emotion, “Finding Nemo” follows the momentous journey of an overprotective clownfish named Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) and his young son Nemo (voiced by Alexander Gould). When the two are unexpectedly separated in the Great Barrier Reef, Nemo is carried far from his ocean home and deposited in a fish tank in a dentist’s office. Buoyed by the companionship of Dory (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres), a friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish, Marlin embarks on a dangerous trek and finds himself the unlikely hero of an epic effort to rescue his son––who hatches a few daring plans of his own to return safely home.

Notes:

  • “Finding Nemo” won the 2003 Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature, and was nominated for Original Screenplay, Original Score and Sound Editing. The film was also nominated for a Golden Globe® Award for Best Motion Picture–Comedy or Musical.
  • Andrew Stanton won the Oscar® for directing “Finding Nemo,” and won a second Academy Award® for directing “WALL•E” (2008).
  • Lee Unkrich made his solo directorial debut with “Toy Story 3,” for which he won the Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature in 2011.
  • At the time of its release, “Finding Nemo” was the highest grossing G-rated movie of all time. It remains the fifth highest grossing animated film worldwide.
  • Ellen DeGeneres was nominated for an MTV Movie Award for Best Comedic Performance.
  • In 2008, the American Film Institute named “Finding Nemo” among the top 10 greatest animated films ever made.

 

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3D Blu-ray Review “Piranha 3DD”

Directed by: John Gulager
Starring: Danielle Panabaker, Matt Bush, David Koechner, Chris Zylka, Katrina Bowden, Gary Busey, Christopher Lloyd, David Hasselhoff
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
MPAA Rating: R
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running time: 83 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 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. After viewing this sequel for the first time, I was left rather disappointed, especially after seeing the completely over-the-top red band trailer. After immediately viewing the film again, I realized that this might be one to grow on me. 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. Overall, this film definitely gets better with repeat viewings but still manages to miss the mark overall.

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. 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!

The Blu-ray presentation is sharp with its 1080p transfer and presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. 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. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also is decent but not really pushed either. “Piranha 3DD” comes in a three-disc set with two Blu-ray discs (3D & 2D), one DVD, a digital copy (as download).

The special features are over-the-top just like the film but actually do deliver some great content. There is a commentary with the filmmakers. I don’t know about anyone else but I am not a fan at of all John Gulager. There are three great Behind-the-scenes featurettes included as well. The first is called “The Story Behind the DD”, “The Hofftastic World of David Hasselhoff” and “Wet and Wild with David Koechner”. Anything with the Hoff is good in my book and Koechner really shines here more so than even in the film. “Busey’s Bloopers” is riot, as his opening scene was too short. Lastly there are a few deleted scenes included and also “Short film: A Lesson with John McEnroe”.

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3D Blu-ray Review “The Pirates! Band of Misfits in 3D”

Directors: Jeff Newitt, Peter Lord
Starring: Hugh Grant, Salma Hayek, Jeremy Piven, Martin Freeman, Imelda Staunton
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 88 minutes

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

After seeing the trailer for “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” five thousand times over a course of a few months, I grew very disinterested in this film. Though when viewing it at home on 3D Blu-ray, I was very impressed. It is a fun, over-the-top stop-motion animated adventure film that will entertain the entire family. There is colorful characters for the kids and colorful jokes for the adults. The voice cast is also very impressive with Hugh Grant, Martin Freeman, Salma Hayek and Jeremy Piven. The humor is a little British but still manages to keep you entertained throughout the film feature.  I am not sure how many times I would be interested in revisiting this film but it is definitely game for at least one good viewing.

This film has been released as a three-disc set with two Blu-ray’s (3D and 2D) and a DVD copy of the film. There is also a Ultraviolet digital streaming copy available. The 3D on this film was not the best I have ever seen but overall decent. That doesn’t mean the film doesn’t look stunning on Blu-ray. It’s 1080p video resolution is beautiful and really showcases the animations and its colors. The film also includes a DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround track and it is also near perfect as well. It works so well with the film’s action scenes and zany antics. Like most 3D films, all of the extras are located on the 2D-only disc. The only extra on the 3D disc are 3D previews.

The special features are decent but nothing out of this world. I just would have loved to seen some 3D features. There is an audio commentary with directors Peter Lord and Jeff Newitt and Editor Justin Krish. Very detailed but overall not that interesting. There is short film included, which runs almost 20 minutes called “So You Want To Be a Pirate!”. “Pirate Disguise Dress-Up Game” is a cute ‘hide-the-pirate’ game for kids. “From Stop to Motion” is my favorite feature which goes into detail on the development process on the animation. “Creating the Bath Chase Sequence” is a specific focus on one of the film’s most complex scenes. Lastly there are two short films from Peter Lord including “Wat’s Pig” and “War Story” both are available with optional director’s commentary.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Sector 7”

Directed by: Ji-hun Kim
Starring: Ji-won Ha, Sung-kee Ahn, Ji-ho Oh
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Shout Factory
Release Date: June 26, 2012
Running Time: 112 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“Sector 7” was a real surprise. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this South Korean monster feature. But it is a really neat little action-horror film. It reminded me a mix between “The Host” and “Aliens”. The monster effects were good, not perfect but still entertaining. I suggest watching the film in 3D, I thought the effects were great. I know people are going to knock the motorcycle scenes but I thought they worked well. The film is not your typical Syfy creature feature though, this actually has some production value to it. It is actually Korea’s first 3D film as well and I give it a big thumbs up. Also it is also currently available on Netflix streaming, if you are not a fan of 3D.

“Sector 7” follows an oil rig crew who while digging for oil are forced to battle a deadly creature at sea. Hae-jun’s greatest dream is to find oil and has become obsessive with this quest on Sector 7 but has yielded no results. Hae-jun and her crew decide to try one more drilling effort before backing up and calling it quits as instructed by headquarters. Though things start to go terribly wrong on the rig and the crew finds out that they are not alone and need to struggle to survive.

This release includes both the 3D Blu-ray and a regular Blu-ray.  Like I mentioned the 1080p transfer looks sharp with it’s widescreen transfer of 1.85:1.  The audio tracks included are impressive as well.  There is a DTS-HD 5.1 Korean track and also a Dolby Digital 5.1 Korean track.  For all you that hate subtitles, the English dub track is actually watchable  though comes with a not as impressive Dolby Digital Stereo track only.  The special features are equally as disappointing only including one short making of featurette.  So overall, if you are looking for an entertaining 2 hours that is not groundbreaking but still memorable, then check take a visit to “Sector 7” for sure.

 

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3D Blu-ray Review “Titanic: 100 Years in 3D”

Presented by: The History Channel
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: A&E Home Video
Release Date: August 14, 2012
Running Time: 45 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

To commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the events that occurred with the Titanic.  “Titanic: 100 Years in 3D” contains powerful untold stories of passengers and crew combined with amazing 3D HD imagery.  It gives us a unique view of the event of the Titanic in a way never before possible. The History Channel delivers yet another amazing 3D Blu-ray release.  My only main issue is that I would have loved this to be a little longer, only running at about 45 minutes.

Back in 2010, an expedition lead by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and RMS Titanic, Inc. went on location to document the entire wreck site of Titanic.  This wasn’t your typical dive though since it includes high-resolution optical video, sonar, acoustic imaging, and 3D HD video and acoustic modeling. To match these amazing visuals they are accompanied by the untold stories of people who were on the ship, narrated in voice-over by actors.

The 1080p 3D transfer looks awesome and really adds a lot of depth.  The film is presented in aspect ratio of 1.78:1.  I personally didn’t see James Cameron’s “Titanic” in 3D when it was re-released this year.  I know that this release won’t match the quality of the 3D but it sure looks great to see the Titanic presented in 3D. The audio contains an Dolby Digital 5.1 track, which sounds impressive.  The only special features for this release are English, Dutch, German, Polish, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Spanish Subtitles…if you consider that a special feature.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance 3D”

Directed by: Brian Taylor, Mark Neveldine
Starring: Nicolas Cage, Ciarán Hinds, Idris Elba, Violante Placido, Johnny Whitworth
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 95 minutes

Blu-ray Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Film Score: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Unlike most people, I was a big fan of the first “Ghost Rider” film. I am also a huge fan of Nicolas Cage and he is at his most zaniest in this film. After seeing the crazy trailer for “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance”, I was psyched that they were really bringing back Ghost Rider as more dark and violent and even in 3D. But unfortunately, they disappointed by taming this film to yet another safe PG-13 release. Ghost Rider is a dark character from Hell yet they have been afraid to really take the plunge on this franchise. On the bright side of this release though, the Blu-ray is impressive and the 3D is great even though it is converted.

Nicolas Cage returns to the role of Johnny Blaze in this sequel. He is still struggling with his curse as the devil’s bounty hunter. While hiding out in a remote part of Eastern Europe, he is recruited by a secret group from the church in order to save a young boy (Fergus Riordan) from the devil (Ciaran Hinds), who is looking for a new body. Blaze decided to embrace the power of the Ghost Rider once more in order to protect the boy and possibly rid himself of his curse forever.

Even though the film is a bit disappointing, the Blu-ray release is not. “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance” packs a sweet 1080p 3D transfer and looks better on Blu-ray than it did on the big screen. Though if you are not a fan of 3D, there is also a 2D presentation of the film as well included. Also included is a sweet Ultraviolet streaming digital copy. This Blu-ray also packs a super awesome quality DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track, which blew up my surround sound.

There special features are impressive overall.  Unlike most 3D releases, this one actually packs a 3D extra called “Riding Into Another Dimension”.  It is a little short but focuses on cast/crew discussing 3D filmmaking and issues with converting the 2D to 3D in post-production. There is an awesome director’s expanded video commentary with picture-in-picture.  It is being described by Sony as “an all access behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film”.   There are just over 10 minutes of deleted scenes included.  Lastly there is a super intense six-part documentary, ” The Path to Vengeance: Making Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance”, which encompasses focusing on the behind-the-scenes making the film. Highly recommended.

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Book Review “Washington D.C.: A 3D Keepsake Cityscape”

Author: Sarah McMenemy
Reading level: Ages 5 and up
Hardcover: 20 pages
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Release Date: April 24, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I have had the privileged of spending out of time in Washington D.C. as I used to commute there to work on a regular basis.  Even though I spent a lot of time there I was never able to see all of the site due to work.  Washington D.C. is known for its wonderful landmarks.  I look forward to taking a trip here with my daughter and wife and experience these wonderful sites together.  Well until that time comes this book is a great way to introduce my daughter to some of the famous site of our nation’s capitol.

Sarah McMenemy’s illustrations continue to provide simply yet elegant views of its focused cities.  Like other 3D Keepsake Cityscape books, this short but sweet accordion book really makes you want to visit D.C..  Out of the dozen landmarks included in this book, some of them include the Capitol Building, the Vietnam Memorial, the Supreme Court and of course,  the White House. I can’t wait till I will be able to share this book with my daughter (now two weeks old) and show her where daddy used to work.  I look forward to future 3D Keepsake Cityscape books from Candlewick.

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Book Review “Paris: A 3D Keepsake Cityscape”

Author: Sarah McMenemy
Reading level: Ages 5 and up
Hardcover: 20 pages
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Release Date: March 13, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I personally have never been to Paris there is something about this city that really creates intrigue. This book is aimed at children and succeeds to educate. The book is tiny and only runs 20 pages but delivers some decent information throughout. Once you remove the book from its slipcase, it almost turns into a classic pop-out book with each page contains a famous site from Paris.

Some of the famous sites included are Notre-Dame De Paris, Moulin Rouge, The Opera and of course, The Eiffel Tower. The colors used in the book have a pastel feel but still are simply enough to not feel cartoonish. If are looking to find out or educate your children on the beauties of Paris, this would be a good place to start. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a 3D cityscape for a book but this beautiful designed accordion-fold book really left me satisfied .

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3D Blu-ray Review “John Carter 3D”

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.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3d, bluray, carter, john, review
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