Blu-ray Review “The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Seventh Season”

Starring: Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Melissa Rauch
Number of discs: 5
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 16, 2014
Run Time: 485 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“The Big Bang Theory” is TV’s most popular comedy. It is going on it’s eight season and shows no signs of fatigue in fact this show is better than ever! This season actually got off to a slightly slow start but really ended up a bunch of the best episodes that this series has ever had to date. This season has amazing guest stars including James Earl Jones, Carrie Fisher and Bob Newhart (one of my favorites). Season five ended with Howard going into space, which was good. Season six ended with Leonard going on a research trip on a boat for months. But season seven has a very real and almost not funny yet absolutely amazing Sheldon revelation that might change the dymanic of the show moving forward. I absolutely love this show and this season is the reason why. Can’t wait for season eight to start…count down the days.

Official Premise: Socially challenged they remain, but the scientific geniuses of The Big Bang Theory always deliver hilarious results. Leonard returns from his North Sea expedition to find that his relationship with Penny involves more beta-testing than he’s ever done in a lab. Howard’s attachment issues with the women in his life in particular and Raj’s social breakthrough with women in general provide more laughs. Bernadette and Amy stand staunchly by the men in their life, even when they’re sitting in marathon role-playing games. Sheldon sees his mom (Laurie Metcalf) in a totally different way, parties with James Earl Jones, establishes a (sort of) bond with his idol Professor Proton (Emmy® winner Bob Newhart) and makes a scientific breakthrough that breaks down before you can say Science Friday.

“The Complete Seventh Season” hits Blu-ray as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + UltraViolet digital copy of the season. The 1080p transfers with their DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround tracks are in line with the previous seasons, which were all exceptional for this show. The special features are also a blast to enjoy after watching the season. Here’s the list of the included special features: String Theory Serenade, James Earl Jones: The Un-Conventional Guest Star, BBTea Time, The Big Bang Theory’s May the 4th, The Big Cendrowski, 2013 Comic-Con Panel, Johnny Galecki Crashes the BBT Writers Panel, and Gag Reel. The only thing missing that would make this perfect would be some commentary tracks.

Own it on Blu-ray™ Combo, DVD & Digital HD September 16

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bang, big, bluray, complete, review, season, ...

Concert Review: Goo Goo Dolls, Daughtry, Plain White T’s – Tag’s Summer Stage, Big Flats, NY

Goo Goo Dolls, Daughtry, Plain White T’s
Saturday, August 16th 2014
Tag’s Summer Stage, Big Flats, NY

Our score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

The quiet town of Big Flats, NY sprung to life on Saturday, August 16th as New York natives the Goo Goo Dolls made a stop at Tag’s Summer Stage as part of their summer tour which also featured season 5 American Idol finalist Chris Daughtry along with the Plain White T’s. Though the weather was touch and go throughout the night it didn’t stop those in attendance from enjoying the night of music.

Opening up the nights show was Plain White T’s who burst on the music scene a few years back with their hit song “Hey There Delilah”. The group performed an intimate acoustic tinged set that sounded great however with the exception of one or two more well know songs the bands time on stage did little to ignite the crowd’s attention. Daughtry would take the stage next opening up his set with the title track off his newest album “Baptized” and instantly had the crowd in his hand. As the set progressed Daughtry and company treated the crowd to a variety of songs from his current and previous albums including hits like “Feels like Tonight”, “It’s Not Over” and “September” before closing out his set with “Long Live Rock & Roll”. Though the crowd seemed appreciative of the bands performance there were several points during the set where Daughtry seemed to push his voice a little too far past his range making those parts a bit harsh on the ears. Personally I also would have enjoyed hearing a few more of his edgier rock tunes this time around however that did not happen.

As darkness fell on the semi-remote venue the Goo Goo Dolls would take the stage to close out the night with an impressive 21 song set which ran the gambit of the bands 20+ year career. The group opened the set with the song “Dizzy” which gave way to other classic tracks like “Big Machine” and “Slide” before the night was closed out by songs like “Broadway” and “Iris”. I found the band’s sound to be tight and well rehearsed however with the exception of bassist Robby Takac whose energy kept the show interesting the other members seemed to be just going through the motions. It was also a little disheartening to see the absence of vintage Goo songs like “Long Way Down” and “Naked”.  Despite my own feelings toward the nights set those in attendance seemed very appreciative of the bands performance and showed that by large periods of applause after each and every song. If you have never seen any of the bands or you are a seasoned show going fan make your way out to one of the remaining shows for a solid night of music and fun as the tours lineup has a little something for everyone.

Plain White T’s Set List:
1.) American Nights
2.) Helium
3.) The Giving Tree
4.) 1,2,3,4
5.) Should’ve Gone to Bed
6.) Hey There Delilah
7.) Rhythm of Love

Daughtry Set List:
1.) Baptized
2.) Feels like Tonight
3.) Over You
4.) Renegade
5.) Traitor
6.) It’s Not Over
7.) What About Now
8.) Wild Heart
9.) Battleships
10.) Home
11.) September
12.) Waiting for Superman
13.) Long Live Rock & Roll

Goo Goo Dolls Set List:
1.) Dizzy
2.) Big Machine
3.) Slide
4.) Rebel Beat
5.) When the World Breaks Your Heart
6.) Already There
7.) Another Second Time Around
8.) Come to Me
9.) Black Balloon
10.) Stay With you
11.) Here is Gone
12.) Caught in the Storm
13.) Name
14.) January Friend
15.) Bringing on the Light
16.) Better Days
17.) Slow It Down
18.) Broadway
19.) Let Love In
20.) Iris
21.) Give a Little Bit (Supertramp cover)

 

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Concert Reviews Tagged With: big, concert, daughtry, dolls, flats, goo, ...

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Emerge from the Shadows onto the Big Screen and into Fans’ Hands

Playmates Toys to Introduce New Toy Line Based on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Film

El Segundo, CA – June 18, 2014 – Playmates Toys, the creative force behind the successful Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toy line over the last three decades, is set to introduce a new product line inspired by Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies’ summer blockbuster film, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, directed by Jonathan Liebesman, written by Josh Appelbaum & André Nemec and Evan Daugherty and produced by Michael Bay, hitting theaters August 8. The movie line of toys will include an assortment of products for Turtles fans, including action figures, vehicles and role play gear.

“We are proud to introduce an all-new line of toys that reflect the personalities and distinctive look of the Turtles in the movie,” said Karl Aaronian, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Playmates Toys. “The range of toys will provide kids and fans of all ages with a one-of-a-kind ninja play experience that brings their favorite characters from the film to life.”

“Playmates has outdone themselves yet again, with an incredible product offering for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie,” said Manuel Torres, SVP Global Toys and Publishing, Nickelodeon Consumer Products. “These products – from action figures to role play toys – will provide hours of play, collectability and deepen our fans’ connection to the beloved brand.”
The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie toy line from Playmates Toys will feature the following action figures, group vehicle and role-play gear:

Action Figures
The action figure collection will include basic action figures, 11-inch figures and deluxe feature figures. The action figures are highly detailed, fully articulated and uniquely sculpted to reflect the Turtles’ appearance in the movie. In addition, each figure comes equipped with unique accessories. The basic action figures vary in heights from 4.0 inches to 5.5 inches. The collection includes Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael, as well as Splinter, The Shredder, Foot Soldier, April O’Neil and Raphael in Disguise. The 11-inch figure collection includes the four Ninja Turtles.

The Combat Warrior Deluxe Figures are highly detailed, fully articulated and uniquely sculpted, with heights ranging from 5.25 inches to 6 inches. The Turtles’ legs can be squeezed to trigger battle actions. The collection includes Leonardo with quick cut katana action, Donatello with smack-down spinning staff action, Michelangelo with triple terror twist nunchuck action and Raphael with serious slashing sai action.

Vehicles
The Turtle Assault Van is packed with ninja action features, allowing kids to drive the Turtles into their next battle and recreate their favorite scenes from the movie. Features include a spring-powered Turtle torpedo, launching luge assault vehicle, pop top hatch and side attack ramp. The control cabin holds the basic Ninja Turtles action figures.

Role Play Gear
With the Ninja Combat Gear, kids can transform themselves into one of their favorite heroes in a half shell from the film. Each set includes the Turtles’ signature weapon and bandana, allowing kids to see if they have what it takes to become a Ninja Turtle. The collection includes Leonardo with katana sword, bandana and two hand guards, Michelangelo with Nunchuck, bandana and two hand guards, Raphael with two Sais and bandana and Donatello with Bo Staff and bandana.

About the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Movie
In this modern-day iteration of the popular franchise that has captivated audiences of all ages for decades, the Turtles must work with fearless reporter April O’Neil (Megan Fox) and her wise-cracking cameraman Vern Fenwick (Will Arnett) to save New York City and unravel Shredder’s diabolical plan. Based on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles characters created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman, written by Josh Appelbaum & André Nemec and Evan Daugherty, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is produced by Michael Bay (director and executive producer of the blockbuster Transformers franchise), Andrew Form, Brad Fuller, Galen Walker, Scott Mednick and Ian Bryce, and directed by Jonathan Liebesman (Wrath of the Titans).

About Playmates Toys
With a history of over 40 years, Playmates Toys is today among the most well-respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry with a proven history in the creation of imaginative products as well as the development and management of profitable, long-term brand franchises. Key brands include TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, HEARTS FOR HEARTS GIRLS and WATERBABIES. From its offices in Hong Kong and California, Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in over 60 countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.playmatestoys.com or http://facebook.com/playmatestoys

About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 35th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 19 consecutive years.

About Paramount Pictures
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.

© 2014 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Toys Tagged With: big, emerge, fans, hands, mutant, ninja, ...

Book Review “Planes: Fire & Rescue – Dusty’s Big Job”

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Planes
Board book: 24 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: June 3, 2014

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Today I have completed three reviews on various new releases all focusing around “Cars” and “Planes”. I know that I love this franchise because I could easily do ten more! “Planes: Fire & Rescue – Dusty’s Big Job” is a dive into the new film in the series, which comes out this July in theaters. This hardcover book is only 24 pages but it is still a great read for kids, who love the series.

The pages have that hard stock, so it is great for little flyers as well without worries of ripping the pages. This book follows the thrilling adventures of Dusty Crophopper and all his pals. Also includes with this release is the “Planes” Storybook Deluxe app for iPhone and iPad! I love how Disney includes these bonus app because they are really nice addition and make the book only more worth wild to pick up.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: big, book, dustys, fire, job, planes, ...

Ray Wise talks about “Big Ass Spider!” and reveals Blu-ray plans for “Twin Peaks”

Ray Wise is a well-known actor in the business. He is known for roles including Leland Palmer in “Twin Peaks”, Leon C. Nash in “RoboCop” and the Devil in “Reaper”. Ray has a great role in the recent creature feature “Big Ass Spider!”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat about his role in that film and he also was able to reveal plans for a complete Blu-ray box set of “Twin Peaks”.

Mike Gencarelli: How did you end up working on a film like “Big Ass Spider!”
Ray Wise: I worked with Mike Mendez, the director, briefly before this on a project. I knew that he wanted me to play this military man, which was fine with me. I read the character description and I taught it was good role for me. He is not too over the top and conservative in his approach. It was also a nice contrast to Greg (Grunberg) and Lombardo (Boyar)’s characters. They supply a lot of the humor in the script, which was really well written. Mike Mendez did a really good job with it and I responded well to its humor. I saw a lot of possibilities in it and I thought if he could pull it off it would be a good film. I think he did just that and even exceeded expectations. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the first cut of the film. I think it is very funny and very effective. I think people are going to love it.

MG: You play hard-ass Major Braxton Tanner but you are still quite funny; what is your process for balancing the comedy for the role?
RW: It came intuitively for me. It was sort of natural. That is the way I liked to approach all of my roles actually. I like to find the humorous aspects of the character as well as some of the more dramatic and create that blend. That is way I like do things naturally. Fortunately, it works out most of the times and translates well on screen.

MG: There has been quite the positive response around this film; I have a feeling it is going to stick around…
It is going to have legs…
MG: Literally [laughing]…
RW: Eight legs [laughing].
MG: [laughing] Exactly!

MG: If they decided (and hopefully they do) to make a sequel to “Big Ass Spider!” would you be on board?
RW: Absolutely! Yeah, I am on board. Absolutely!

MG: Tell us about joining the cast of “The Young and the Restless”?
RW: I am playing this Ian Ward. He has come in from out of town as is a past cult leader. He has these individuals that follow him religiously because he has this special philosophy of life that can help everyone achieve their own dreams. They are thinking that he is responsible for the pregnant of the character Nikki many years ago. Allegedly responisble. So, he comes to town to really stir things up. You know, it is another one of those characters for me.

MG: And you are no stranger to playing the baddie like with the Devil in “Reaper” etc; what draws you to these characters?
RW: I think it is because they are always so well-written. When the writers try and write the bad guy, they try and put in a little extra umph in these characters. They add a little extra than a rather bland and mundane good guy [laughs]. I think my own personal physicality and demeanor plays well to that aspect of the writing as well. When you see me, you think “Well he seems alright…but there is something going on here” [laughs]. That suspense and anticipation is really great for the audience.

MG: Do you enjoy going from a bad guy like those to funny roles in films like “FDR: American Badass!”?
RW: First of all I love Barry (Bostwick) and I thought his FDR was really great! I played Douglas MacArthur, so that might have been the beginning of my military chops [laughs], I am not sure. I enjoyed that experience very much actually. There was a lot of laughs and it turned out pretty well also like “Big Ass Spider!”.

MG: I heard you broke the news about an upcoming “Twin Peak” series Blu-ray; can you give us the scoop?
RW: It will be a new box set of the pilot and episodes combined with “Fire Walk with Me”, the prequel movie. It is everything. Everything! Also included will be deleted scenes from “Fire Walk with Me”. I think David (Lynch)’s original cut of the film was about 3.5/4 hours long, so there is stuff that no one has ever seen that is going to be on this new box set. I think it is pretty great. So stay tuned.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: ass, big, bluray, peaks, plans, ray, ...

Greg Grunberg talks about his new film “Big Ass Spider!”

Greg Grunberg is best known for playing Matt Parkman in “Heroes”. He also played Sean Blumberg in “Felicity”, the pilot Seth Norris in “Lost” and Eric Weiss in “Alias”. His latest film is “Big Ass Spider!” and it is one hell of a fun movie. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Greg about the film and how he ended up fighting a “Big Ass Spider!”

Mike Gencarelli: Congrats in advance for the early success and positive reactions to “Big Ass Spider!”
Greg Grunberg: Thanks! It one of these films that we just need to get the word out and I know it’s going to have some great legs. People are going to watch it and spread the word. I am so proud of it. Mike (Mendez), the director, did some a great job putting it all together. He let us improv and have fun and it really came together great.

MG: What was your first response when the script for “Big Ass Spider!” lands on your desk?
GG: My initial response is “HELL NO” [laughs]. I read everything and tell people to send me whatever and either I or my manager will read it. I received and this immediately thought that it was so ambitious that it would never work. There are more effects shots in this film then “Hollow Man”…and I was in “Hollow Man”. Kevin Bacon was invisible the entire movie. So I thought how nobody was going to be able to pull this off. So I gave a polite “No” along with a few notes and caveats that I had. They came back to me and just asked me to meet with the director Mike Mendez. He is one of these guys that you cannot say no to him. He has such a singular vision and is such a talented filmmaker. He seemed to have everything planned out in terms of effects etc. He was also willing to consider my casting suggestion for Lombardo Boyar, who I worked with on my movie “Group Sex”. It just all ended up working out and we were all on the same page.

MG: How do you approach a role like this to make it funny without being too cheesy?
GG: No matter what people do in their life, everybody takes what they do seriously. I wanted to approach it that was but not in a cartoony way. I have seen characters like this in movies and they go above and beyond and are really nuts are killer spiders. It is entertaining but if you don’t believe it then you are not going to take the ride. I know that the unbelievable factor is obvious for this film, there is a ten story
spider but you want the characters to be real and relationships between them to be real. I think that is what we did here and it really worked. It was a really fun and I had a great time. Lombardo was fun to work with and I felt like we both stole the movie. It is one of those things that at the end you are talking about Lombardo’s one liner as much as you are the spider.

MG: What was the most demanding aspect of working on a film like this?
GG: It’s funny because when I am approached to do a film like this there always like “Look there’s not going to be trailer, it’s really low budget so…” I say “Who gives a fuck about any of that shit”. I want to make a great movie. I am always on set anyway and never in a trailer. I just love making movies. I love acting in them and every aspect about them. So that stuff doesn’t scare me. The hardest part is making sure that you have good people and they are prepared to do their jobs. Every single aspect and department matters. Mike Mendez is an incredible studied filmmaker and I can’t wait to see what happens when he is given a real budget. He is going to explode like James Wan and hopefully I get to work with him again.

MG: Why do you think sci-fi/horror fans are going to dig this film?
GG: The cool thing about this is that I have three boys, 10, 14, and 17 and all of them can watch it. This is a family movie and nothing in here is inappropriate. The scary parts of fucking scary and the funny parts are funny. It is a great combination in a very relatable way. If shit when down like this in L.A., this is how it would play out [laughs]. Is it the best movie in the world? NO! But it is damn close in terms of low budget spider movies are concerned.

MG: “Big Ass Spider!” was left off nicely for a sequel; any word of that happening?
GG: We have talked about it and are certainly thinking about what that next movie would be but it is all up to the financiers. It is doing well for Epic Pictures and they are pleased so far. Hopefully it will be the type of thing where the fans just demand it. I would love to make another one.

MG: You also recently wrapped on two very different films “Burning Dog” and “A Tigers Tale”, tell us about these?
GG: “A Tigers Tale” is a complete family movie. It is really sweet and has these two Bengal tigers in it. I did that because I really wanted to do something different. I mean I got to work with real Bengal tiger cubs and I couldn’t pass up an opportunity like that. It is a straight forward family film but there are some really amazing moments in it. It just mixes things up. Then I also did this film called “Burning Dog”, with Trey Batchelor directing, which was super cool. I produced the film as well. It is like a first person shooter movie. So the main character is the camera and you ride along with these two cops and I play one of the cops. It was awesome. So keep an eye out and spread the word about “Big Ass Spider!”

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: ass, big, film, greg, grunberg, spider, ...

CD Review: Big Head Todd & The Monsters “Black Beehive”

Big Head Todd & The Monsters
“Black Beehive”
Shout Factory
Producer: Steve Jordan
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

With 25 years in the music business under their belts the members of Big Head Todd and the Monsters have no plans of slowing down. The group’s newest album titled “Black Beehive” hits the shelves a quarter century after the group’s 1989 debut album “Another Mayberry”. Featuring 11 brand new tracks produced by Grammy Award-winning multi-instrumentalist Steve Jordan (John Mayer, Keith Richards) “Black Beehive” see the band strengthening their roots while moving forward at the same time.

Filled with classic blues based instrumentation that blends several other genres such as country, rock and folk music “Black Beehive” is a melting pot of styles and sounds which will appeal to a variety of listeners both young and old. From the down home thump of “Hey Delila” to the dark and gritty rumblings of “We Won’t Go Back” the band covers a lot of musical territory while remaining true to their signature sound. The album features several guest performers including guitarist Ronnie Baker Brooks, Long time Howlin’ Wolf band member Eddie Shaw on Saxophone and harmonica along with producer Steve Jordan who all add the proverbial icing on the cake making the almost 3 year gap between this album and the bands previous release “100 Years of Robert Johnson” worth the wait as both acoustic and electric instrumentation coupled with Todd Mohr’s stylistic vocals make this a must have for any BHT fan.

Track Listing:
1.) Hey Delila
2.) Everything About You
3.) Seven State Lines
4.) Josephina
5.) Black Beehive
6.) We Won’t Go Back
7.) Fear, Greed and Ignorance
8.) Hubert’s Dream
9.) I Get Smooth
10.) Travelin’ Light
11.) Forever Bonnie

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: beehive, big, black, cd, monsters, review, ...

Blu-ray Review “Big Ass Spider!”

Actors: Greg Grunberg, Lombardo Boyar, Ray Wise
Directors: Mike Mendez
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Epic Pictures
Release Date: January 7, 2014
Run Time: 85 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

When you hear the title “Big Ass Spider!”, you would probably think that this film was just another Syfy original movie but you would be wrong. This film is definitely a low-budget creature feature but it packs some solid production values. This comes quite polished and packed with great CG creature effects, solid action and also funny as hell. If you are looking for a fun and exciting ride, I would recommend checking this film out. Can’t wait for the sequel!

Official Premise: “An exterminator (Greg Grunberg) and his Hispanic sidekick (Lombardo Boyar) are caught in an epic battle when a military assault fails to contain a giant alien spider rampaging through the city of Los Angeles”. Epic right? But seriously do you really need to read what this film is about with a title like “Big Ass Spider!”, I mean come on, the title sells itself.

“Big Ass Spider!” comes with a solid cast including Greg Grunberg (TV’s “Heroes”), Lombardo Boyar (“Happy Feet I and II”) and Ray Wise (“X-Men: First Class”, TV’s “Twin Peaks”). Greg really nails this role, he is funny and he knows this film is a stretch but really has a blast with it.  Lombardo Boyar is over=the-top and a laugh riot. Ray Wise is Ray Wise and steals the show (as always). The film is directed by Mike Mendez, who is best know for his 2006 horror feature, “The Gravedancers”. I can’t wait to see what he follows up this film with.

“Big Ass Spider!” really does shine on Blu-ray with its solid 1.78:1 aspect ratio presentation. The production value really stands up and looks solid and the visual effects look very impressive. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track also packs a nice punch. The dialogue is sharp and action is well represented. The only thing that I would have loved to seen with this release was a combo pack release with a digital copy.

In terms of special features, I was a bit let down. I would have loved to see the focus on the visual effects. We do get a solid commentary track with stars Greg Grunberg, Lombardo Boyar, and director Mike Mendez. You can tell that these guys had a blast with this film and this is a really fun track. The only other featurette is the “‘Big Ass Spider! Premiere'”, which takes us to South by Southwest Film Festival. Lastly, there is a very short collection of “Interviews” from cast/crew as well as a theatrical trailer, international trailer and TV spot included.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: ass, big, bluray, review, spider

Blu-ray Review “Big: 25th Anniversary Edition”

Actors: Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia, John Heard, Jared Rushton
Directors: Penny Marshall
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: December 10, 2013
Run Time: 104 / 130 minutes

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

“Big” is such a classic piece of film and it also was a real turning point for Tom Hanks as an actor. The film is so sweet, fun and still holds up today. In fact, this film is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. This is just one of those films that you can’t turn off if you come across it. I also feel like it is generational and works with various age groups. Plus growing up in NY, this film used to make to love visiting the FAO Schwarz store every Christmas and jumping on that big piano. If you enjoy this film and do not own it yet on Blu-ray, now is the time to pick it up.

Official Premise: Two-time Oscar Winner Tom Hanks received his first Best Actor Nomination for his disarming turn as a 12-year-old man-child in Penny Marshall’s timeless, hilarious delight. Tired of being a kid, Josh Baskin wishes he was big. When he wakes up the next day, he’s an adult! Now, Josh must hold down a job – and please a new boss (Loggia). Tougher still, he must convince his best friend that he’s still himself, and explain to a beautiful woman (Perkins) who falls for him, that he’s not. Soon, Josh just wants to be a kid again, but can he?

This 25th Anniversary Edition comes from Fox as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD. This new release includes a two cuts of the film, the theatrical 104 minute cut and the 130 minute extended cut. Who doesn’t love the theatrical cut but I enjoyed the extended cut quite a bit as well. “Big” looks quite impressive with its 1080p high-def transfer. It is quite crisp and the overall good for a 1980’s comedy. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track also sounds great, especially with the score and music throughout.

In terms of special features, they are good but nothing really special for the 25th anniversary (and nothing new either from previous releases). “Big Brainstorming” is an audio documentary by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg along with Pete Ventrella. “Big’ Beginnings” is featurette with writers Gary Ross, Anne Spielberg and Producer James Brooks discussing how the film came about. “Chemistry of a Classic” features interviews with cast and crew. “The Work of Play” includes interviews with actual people in the toy business. “Hollywood Backstory: ‘Big'” looks into the history of the film. Lastly “Carnival Party Newswrap” is a look into the film’s premiere.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 25th, anniversary, big, bluray, edition, review, ...

1984’s “Silent Night, Deadly Night” Returning to the Big Screen

Christmas is coming early this year for horror fans. Starting December 4th, Screenvision and Fangoria Presents will unwrap Charles E. Sallier, Jr’s cult horror classic “Silent Night, Deadly Night” in theatres all across the country.

The story of Billy Chapman, a young man who, at age five, witnessed the murder of his parents by a madman wearing a Santa Claus suit, the film was a hot bed of controversy upon it’s original release due to it’s story line, drawing the ire of parent associations and film critics, most notably Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert.

For a list of dates and theatres currently booked for this event go to www.fangoriaonscreen.com

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Featured Tagged With: 1984s, big, deadly, night, returning, screen, ...

See the Original “House on Haunted Hill” on the Big Screen in Tampa! [ENDED]

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

One of the best things about retro-cinemas is having the chance to see classic films on the big screen where they belong. This month Media Mikes has teamed up with the Tampa Pitcher Show to send one lucky reader and a guest to the November 23rd Horror Matinee presentation of William Castle’s 1958 classic “House on Haunted Hill,” starring Vincent Price, Richard Long and Elisha Cook, Jr.

The presentation will be hosted by nationally known horror host Wolfman Mac Kelly. Kelly is probably best known as the host of the long running syndicated television program “Chiller Drive-In.” The screening begins promptly at 1:00 p.m. For more information go to www.tampapitchershow.net

All you have to do is leave us a comment letting us know what classic horror film you’d like to see again on the big screen. One random comment will be chosen and the winner will be notified by email. This contest ends at noon on Thursday, November 21st. Good luck!

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: big, haunted, hill, house, original, screen, ...

Book Review “The Sun’s Coming Up… Like A Big Bald Head” by Norman Reedus

Photographs by: Norman Reedus
“The Sun’s Coming Up… Like A Big Bald Head”
Hardcover Limited Edition
Release Date: October 31, 2013

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love Norman Reedus right now? The guy already had a huge cult following from his work on “The Boondock Saints” films, then he went and did a little show called “The Walking Dead”. Now he is a fan favorite on the show and has a much larger worldwide following. What people might not know about Reedus is that besides just being an actor, he is also a director and a photographer.

When I interviewed Reedus (before his “The Walking Dead” fandom) back in 2010 and he went into detail on his work with with photography, paintings and sculptures. Shortly after that I went through his work, some of which is also included now in this book, and really enjoyed it. His work is very impressive and also quite unique but if you know Reedus then you see catch on to his vision throughout it. I have to admit, I am not an art critic. I do not have an artistic eye. But I would like to think that I have a pretty decent appreciation for photography and art.

“The Sun’s Coming Up… Like A Big Bald Head” comes in a very sharp looking limited-edition collector’s volume hardcover book. The photographs by Norman Reedus are very artistic and takes on an “hauntingly intimate journey through the dark and sublime.” The journey through this book is definitely dark and quite out there but also very effective. Some of the images left me a little taken back and yet still couldn’t take my eyes of them. Some are very high quality and some are low quality, which is all done on purpose encompass his artistic goal.

This book is going to have a prominent place on our coffee table since I think it will be a great conversation piece for sure. In the back of the book there is a sort of index of all the images with a title for each and where they were taken. After looking through the book once I was immediately compelled to take a second deeper look and reference the back index for each photo. Overall a very strange yet interesting trip and I look forward to spreading the word. Highly recommend for any fan of photography and art…and of course fan of Norman Reedus.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Book Reviews, Featured Tagged With: bald, big, book, coming, norman, reedus, ...

Concert Review: “Carnival of Madness 2013” Tag’s Summer Stage, Big Flats, NY

“Carnival of Madness 2013”
Shinedown, Skillet, Papa Roach, In This Moment, We As Human
Date: Wednesday, August28th 2013
Venue: Tag’s Summer Stage, Big Flats, NY

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

The Tag’s Summer Stage was alive and kicking on August 28th as the 2013 Carnival of Madness tour made a stop in the normally quiet upstate NY town of Big Flats. Complete with stilt walkers, jugglers and of course tour headliners Shinedown there really shouldn’t have been anywhere else to be.

The show kicked off with We As Human taking the stage for a brief 20 minute set which primed the crowd for what was to come later in the evening. Though the crowds appreciation was lacking somewhat in the way of applause the 5 piece rock band from Nashville, TN forged ahead giving their all. In This Moment would take the stage next and the always entertaining Maria Brink and company took the show to a completely different level. The set consisted of air/smoke cannons, scantily clad backup dancers and of course some great heavy music.

The next slot on the bill changes from night to night with Papa Roach and Skillet alternating line up slots. On this night it would be veterans Papa Roach who would take the stage first blasting their way through a high energy set that mixed both classic and new songs from the bands expansive catalog. Lead singer Jacoby Shaddix who is back and better than ever (Shaddix had a polyp removed from his vocal cord recently) whipped the crowd in to a frenzy that resulted in people and lawn chairs sailing through the air from the start of the bands set until the last notes of the bands hit song “Last Resort” rang out.

Skillet would follow and though I wasn’t sure how anyone could follow the amazing set that Papa Roach had just completed Skillet delivered. The band pulled out all the stops including masked string players, air cannons and levitating platforms. Not only did the band deliver visually they sounded great as well. As always fan favorites such as “Hero” and “Monster” garnered the biggest responses however each number the band performed in their 11 song set was spot on.

Last to take the stage where tour headliners Shinedown. Though the bands set was packed with hit after hit for me the performance fell kind of flat. At times the production of the show which featured a vast lighting rig over powered the bands performance making it hard at certain points to look directly at the stage. I did however enjoy the bands cover of the Lynyrd Skynyrd classic “Simple Man” as singer Brent Smith always does the song justice. All in all a great night of music and fun was had by those in attendance.

Papa Roach Set List:
1.) Still Swingin’
2.) Blood Brothers
3.) Give Me Back My Life
4.) Between Angels and Insects
5.) Where Did the Angels Go?
6.) Burn
7.) Forever
8.) Leader of the Broken Hearts
9.) Scars
10.) …To Be Loved
11.) Getting Away with Murder
12.) Last Resort

Skillet Set List:
1.) Whispers in the Dark
2.) Hero
3.) Sick of It
4.) Comatose
5.) Rise
6.) Awake and Alive
7.) The Last Night
8.) Not Gonna Die
9.) Circus for a Psycho
10.) Monster
11.) Rebirthing

Shinedown Set List:
1.) I’m Not Alright
2.) Enemies
3.) Devour
4.) Unity
5.) The Crow & The Butterfly
6.) Adrenaline
7.) I’ll Follow You
8.) Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom -Lay Boom)
9.) If You Only Knew
10.) Amaryllis
11.) Sound of Madness
12.) Second Chance
13.) Simple Man
14.) Bully

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Concert Reviews Tagged With: 2013, big, carnival, concert, flats, madness, ...

Blu-ray Review “The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Sixth Season”

Actors: Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar
Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: September 10, 2013

Season: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When season five ended with Leonard going to space, I thought it would make for an interesting season six, but I was wrong.  The first few episodes season six were quite weak, as they seems to have lost direction with that story line. But they really make up for it in the following episodes as the season got some steam, it delivered some of the shows funniest episodes, especially towards the end. Even Raj, who desperately needed some kick, got a great new arc this season and his character will change forever. The only note I have to the writers is to give Penny a new story line cause she is getting a little bland. Nonetheless, I think I can honestly say that this is one of the funniest shows on TV right now and shows no sign of slowing down either. I am counting down the days until season seven starts.

Official Premise: Whether on or above Earth, hilarity is outrageously universal in TV’s most popular comedy featuring four forward-thinking but socially backward geniuses. Fun discoveries multiply: Leonard learns jealousy is bad for a relationship (with Penny) but science is good for seduction (of Penny). Howard finds life in the International Space Station life is no escape from terrestrial turmoil between his mom and his new wife Bernadette. Raj meets someone special who may be a good match, if he can keep her from fleeing mid-date. And then there’s Sheldon. He learns what not to say after facing harassment charges or competing for tenure at work and how Dungeons & Dragons can be the icebreaker his relationship with Amy needs. For those who need laughter with scientific regularity, this 24-episode Season Six set of The Big Bang Theory will rock your cosmos.

“The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Sixth Season” includes a great Blu-ray presentation like all past season releases as well. The 1080p on each of the 24 episodes are sharp and look great, same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which works well with the jokes. Besides the Blu-ray, Warner’s also includes a DVD and an Ultraviolet copy included. In terms of great special features, they are fantastic on this release. “The Big Bang Theory: The Final Comedy Frontier” is a fun featurette, which goes behind-the-scenes with the cast talking about Howard’s space mission. “Houston, We Have A Sit-Com” is a neat live Skype call from the cast to Astronaut Joe Acaba while he circles the earth in the International Space Station. “The Big Bang Theory at Paley Fest 2013” is the panel from the event with cast and executive producers. “Electromagnetism: The Best Relationship Moments in Season 6” is a four-part feature looking into each of the characters from “Leonard & Penny”, “Sheldon & Amy”, “Howard & Bernadette” and “Raj”. Lastly there are some fun deleted scenes and a gag reel included.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bang, big, complete, dvd, review, season, ...

Blu-ray Review “The Big Wedding”

Actors: Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon, Robin Williams, Katherine Heigl, Amanda Seyfried, Topher Grace
Directors: Justin Zackham
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lionsgate
DVD Release Date: August 13, 2013
Run Time: 89 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

The draw for me with “The Big Wedding” is easily the film’s cast. Ensemble is calling it lightly. Here’s the list Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon and Robin Williams along with Katherine Heigl, Amanda Seyfried and Topher Grace. Not to shabby huh? I am not a huge fan normally of situational comedies, like “Meet the Parents” etc. but I figured I would give it a chance. It is not perfect but it has a few good laugh out loud moments. I would recommend this as a renter but to be honest it is worth seeing just for the dynamic of this wonderful cast. Plus it is rated-R, so it has a little edge as well.

Official Premise: A charmingly modern family tries to survive a weekend wedding celebration that has the potential to become a full-blown family fiasco. To the amusement of their adult children and friends, long-divorced couple Don and Ellie Griffin (De Niro and Keaton) are once again forced to play the happy couple for the sake of their adopted son’s wedding after his ultraconservative biological mother unexpectedly decides to fly halfway across the world to attend.

The Blu-ray presentation from Lionsgate delivers as much as it can being a comedy on Blu-ray. It is being released just as a Blu-ray no combo pack or digital copy included. The 1080p transfer is clear and the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track works with the film’s comedic jokes. There is only one special feature included on the Blu-ray, which is a little sad due to all the talent involved with this film. “Coordinating The Big Wedding” is a featurette on the film production and gives a short but decent insight into it with cast/crew.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: big, bluray, review, wedding
« sdf
Previous
Page 3 of 5
Next
Next Page »