Blu-ray Review “Almost Human”

Actors: Graham Skipper, Josh Ethier
Director: Joe Begos
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IFC Midnight
Release Date: June 17, 2014
Run Time: 79 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When you see the amazing poster for “Almost Human”, it is simply impossible for any horror fan to say “No” this checking this film out. Unfortunately after the opening scene, this film falls terribly apart and really loses its momentum. I can honestly tell you that we are going to see great things from writer/director Joe Begos for sure. But “Almost Human” suffers from a terrible cast and no budget. If they could have got some money behind this, they really could have hooked this film up good. There is some good gore for those horror hounds and it feels like an old school slasher but I was overall left quite bored.

Official Premise: Two years ago, Mark Fisher (Ethier, Contracted, Scavengers) disappeared from his home in rural Maine in a brilliant flash of otherworldly blue light. His friend Seth Hampton (Skipper) was the last to see him alive. Now, Seth is having disturbing premonitions that Mark has returned as something other than human. When grisly, violent murders start taking place in the community, Seth and his girlfriend Jen Craven (Leigh, The Last Halloween) discover that Mark is indeed back, and that there is something terribly evil inside of him.

In the special features department, there is a commentary track from writer/director Joe Begos and Josh Ethier. There is also another audio commentary track from Begos and Ethier (again) along with Graham Skipper and Cory Lockman. There is a feature-length making of behind-the-scenes look into the production. There is a on-set visit with Graham Skipper. There is the short film called “Toxin”. Lastly, there is a theatrical and alternate trailers, vintage TV spot and a photo gallery. This is a rare film where the special features are worth watching more than the film itself. I did enjoy the film more honestly with the commentary track.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Doctor Who: An Adventure in Space and Time”

Starring: David Bradley, Jessica Raine, Brian Cox, Sacha Dhawan, Lesley Manville, Jamie Glover
Director: Terry McDonough
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: May 27, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4.5 out of 5 stars

When I saw the advertisement for “An Adventure in Space and Time”, I thought it was another “Doctor Who” special or documentary, I had no idea that it was a docudrama about the origin of the show itself. The film stars David Bradley as William Hartnell, the actor who portrayed the First Doctor, along with Jessica Raine, Jamie Glover, Sacha Dhawan, Lesley Manville, Jemma Powell, Reece Shearsmith, Mark Eden and Brian Cox. The film has a certain television feel to it but I was literally in love with it from the movie it started. David Bradley is such an amazing actor and it was nice to see him take the spotlight for once and really shine. As a huge “Doctor Who” fan, I encourage everyone to see this if you are a fan of the series. It is a great story, well done and at the same time very entertaining.

Official Premise: Travel back in time to witness the dramatic birth of Doctor Who. Actor William Hartnell (David Bradley, Filch from the Harry Potter films, Game of Thrones) felt trapped by a succession of tough-guy roles. Wannabe producer Verity Lambert (Jessica Raine, Call the Midwife) was frustrated by the TV industry’s glass ceiling. Both of them were to find unlikely hope and unexpected challenges in the form of a Saturday afternoon drama, time travel and monsters! Allied with a brilliant creative team, they went on to introduce the world to the longest running science fiction series ever, currently in its 50th year and counting.

BBC Home Entertainment deliver this release as a 3-disc set Blu-ray + DVD combo pack. The Blu-ray includes the film “An Adventure in Space and Time” presented with a very impressive 1080p transfer and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround and a slew of extras. First off, we have “William Hartnell: The Original” features cast/crew talking about the actor.  “The Making of ‘An Adventure in Space and Time” is narrated by Carol Ann Ford and goes behind-the-scenes with cast/crew.  “Reconstruction: Four Sequences” has the producers talking about recreating the title shots. There are also two deleted Scenes included.

The second disc, which is a bonus DVD, is a real winner.   It includes “An Unearthly Child” from 1963, which is the original broadcast version of the very first “Doctor Who” series, in 4 episodes. It also includes the “Original Pilot of An Unearthly Child”, which shelved and never used. There is also commentary track available on both episode 1 and 4 of the original “An Unearthly Child”, as well as commentary for the 40 minute pilot. Lastly there are various theme music videos, comedy sketches and a photo gallery included. Disc three is a DVD version of “An Adventure in Space and Time” wrapping out this amazing combo pack.

Blu-ray Review “Attack on Titan: Limited Edition – Part 1”

Actors: Mike McFarland, Matthew Mercer
Directors: Tetsuro Araki
Number of discs: 4
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: June 3, 2014
Run Time: 325 minutes

Series: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Starting off as a manga back in “Attack on Titan”, has quickly taking over the anime world. If you watch the first episode, there is literally no way you can’t get hooked. It is currently one of my favorite anime series out right now. This Part 1 release includes the first 13 episodes of the 25 episode series. I literally burned through the first 13 episodes in one day wanted more immediately. Funimation already set a release date of September 23rd for Part 2 for this series. I really hope they include the 2 OVA episodes as well. The series is also being re-adapted into two animated theatrical films set to be released Winter 2014 and 2015. The word is that there is also a live-action movie that will begin filming in summer 2014 for a planned summer 2015 release. So stay tuned “Titan” fans, there is still a lot of come!

Official Premise: When the man-eating giants called Titans first appeared, humans retreated behind massive walls. After a hundred years of safety, a colossal-sized Titan smashes through the defenses, unleashing a flood of giants and carnage in the streets. Eren Jaeger watches helplessly as one of the creatures devours his mother. He vows to kill every Titan walking the earth. Eren and his surviving friends enlist to fight against the insatiable monsters. The future looks bleak, but there’s more to Eren than meets the eye: he may be humanity’s last hope against extinction. The Titans have come to feast. Anything can happen. No one is safe.

Funimation is really delivering to its fan for this Limited Edition release. There is such a fanbase for this and they probably would have been happy with just the episodes on Blu-ray but Funimation went a step further and included tons of great goodies for this release. It comes with a 4-pin collection consisting of the Military Police Regiment, Scout Regiment, Garrison Regiment, and Cadet Corps. There is a replica of Eren Jaeger’s key necklace and also a sword necklace featuring the Titan flesh paring blades. There is a 3-D lenticular Art Card included. Lastly “Notes From Beyond the Wall: Part 1” is a 24 page digibook that is a great addition.

The 1080p transfer of these episodes look outstanding. I really love the style of this show. The announcement of the English dub cast was a big deal for this show and I was very happy with it myself. Bryce Papenbrook voices Eren Jaeger, know best for Rin Okumura from “Blue Exorcist” and Kirito from “Sword Art Online”. He does a great job. Also get voice actors include Mike McFarland and Matthew Mercer. The Dolby TrueHD: English 5.1 really delivered for sure. Of course also included is the original audio Dolby TrueHD Japanese 2.0 and English 5.1 surround tracks.

If the episodes and goodies wasn’t enough for you, there are over 100 minutes extras included on this release. First off we have “The Making of Attack on Titan”, which is a great behind-the-scenes look in this amazing anime. “Monster Character Theater – Fly! Trainee Corps” is a funny series of Flash animated shorts featuring the characters in Chibi form based on designs by Yuupon. There are two audio commentaries included on episodes 3 and 13. Lastly there is a photo gallery, textless songs and trailers included. I can’t wait to see what they drum up for Part 2!

Blu-ray Review “Joe”

Actors: Nicolas Cage, Tye Sheridan, Ronnie Gene Blevins, Gary Poulter
Director: David Gordon Green
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: June 17, 2014
Run Time: 117 minutes

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

Everyone gives Nicolas Cage a hard time but I think the guy is amazing. “Joe” is no question of his best recent roles. It is powerful and very intense. This is the old Nicolas Cage. He is back! Director David Gordon Green has done indie films like 2000’s “George Washington” to big comedies like “Pineapple Express”, but it is nice to him him get back to his indie roots. Tye Sheridan broke out big after his role in Jeff Nichols’ “Mud” and this just continues the trend. This film got no attention in theaters, which is a shame since it deserves it. I highly recommend it!

Synopsis: Nicolas Cage delivers an intensely powerful performance as Joe, an ex-con with a hair-trigger temper who is trying to stay out of trouble, making an honest yet meager life for himself, and the unlikeliest of role models. But when he meets a troubled 15-year old homeless boy (Sheridan) in need of help from a violent and destitute father, Joe is faced with the heart-breaking choice of redemption or ruin.

Lions Gate is releasing this film as a combo pack with Blu-ray and Ultraviolet Digital Copy included. The 1080p transfer is very impressive. Green’s eye for picking out amazing shots have always been impressive. It is also complemented by the amazing visuals shot by Tim Orr. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also very effective. The special features are a nice bonus as well. There are two featurettes “The Making of Joe” and “The Long Gravel Drive: The Origins of Joe” and some deleted scenes. Lastly there is a solid audio commentary track with director David Gordon Green, composer David Wingo and actor Brian D. Mays.

3D Blu-ray Review “The LEGO Movie: Everything is Awesome Edition”

Actors: Chris Pratt, Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Nick Offerman
Directors: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: June 17, 2014
Run Time: 100 minutes

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

Who does love playing with LEGO sets? I am in my 30’s and have love it as a kid and still as an adult, even my 2 year old loves playing with her Duplo sets already. “The LEGO Movie” came at the perfect time and really delivered one of the best animated film in a long time. The film is visually amazing, action packed and also extremely funny. As if LEGO wasn’t big enough, this film just a perfect addition. I loved the CG-animated style and the touch of stop motion animation was also brilliant for this film. It is just so creative and unique. I watched this film and already I can’t to wait to again very soon.

Official Premise: The original 3D computer-animated story follows Emmet, an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as The Special, the most extraordinary person and the key to saving the world. He is drafted into a fellowship of strangers on an epic quest to stop an evil tyrant, a journey for which Emmet is hopelessly and hilariously underprepared.

“The Lego Movie” features a fantastic voice cast including Chris Pratt (“Guardians of the Galaxy”) voicing Emmet, Will Ferrell (“Elf”) voicing Lord Business, Elizabeth Banks (“The Hunger Games”) voicing Wildstyle, Will Arnett (“Arrested Development”) steals the show voicing Batman, Nick Offerman (“Parks and Recreation”) as Metal Beard, Alison Brie (“Mad Men”) as Unikitty and Charlie Day (“Pacific Rim”) as Benny, the 1980-something Spaceman, Liam Neeson (“Taken) as Bad Cop and Morgan Freeman (“Now You See Me”) as Vitruvius. Since directorsPhil Lord, Christopher Miller directed “21 Jump Street”, the films stars Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill also pop in as Superman and Green Lantern.

The “Everything is Awesome Edition” comes as a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + UltraViolet digital copy. There is also bonus 3D copy of the film as well also includes an exclusive LEGO Vitruvius minifigure, collectible 3D Emmet photo and exclusive bonus content. What I love about this film is that you can enjoy it either in 3D or 2D. I watched it 3D for myself and then 2D with my daughter. Either way the film is still amazing. The 1080p video is so crisp and colorful. This film literally jumps off the screen whether it is 3D or not. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is pumping as well. The action sounds great and of course the film’s hit single is…well…AWESOME!

The special features are also awesome for this release. “Dream Job: Meet The LEGO Builders” is an exclusive extra with the “Everything is Awesome Edition” release. There is an must listen audio commentary track with directors Miller and Lord, along with Pratt, Brie, Arnett and Day and even Banks calls in for a little bit). “Batman: A True Artist”, “Enter the Ninjago” and “Michelangelo and Lincoln: History are two funny short featurettes on the characters. “Bringing LEGO to Life” goes behind-the-scenes into the making of the film.

Who doesn’t love the song “Everything is Awesome”? It is so catchy. There is a great Sing-Along included. “See it! Build it!” shows you how to build things in the film like Emmet’s double-decker couch and his car. “Stories from the Story Team” mixes storyboards and animatic on scenes that didn’t make the final cut. “Fan-Made Films: Top Secret Submissions” are fan films introduced by Pratt. There are also outtakes, additional promotional content, Alleyway test footage and deleted scenes rounding out the extras.

Own “THE LEGO MOVIE” now on Digital HD and on June 17th on Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD 2-Disc Special Edition http://bit.ly/LEGOMovieWBShop

 

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Blu-ray Review “Tim’s Vermeer”

Starring: Tim Jenison
Directed: Penn Jillette & Teller
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 10, 2014
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

“Tim’s Vermeer” is a film that is film written by magician-duo Penn Jillette & Teller, directed by Teller, and produced and narrated by Penn Jillette. This was a film festival favorite and is making it’s way home to Blu-ray. It is definitely quite a unique documentary film. Tim Jenison is not only a fascinating topic, the film is also very entertaining and very funny, as the inventor attempts to solve one of the art world’s greatest mysteries. Since the magician-duo are know for their illusion, there is a certain magic aspect of the topic as well, since art does have that certain feeling. If you got 88 minutes to spare, “Tim’s Vermeer” is a very compelling film that will leave you very satisfied.

Official Premise: Tim Jenison, a Texas-based inventor, attempts to solve one of the greatest mysteries in the art world: How did Dutch master Johannes Vermeer manage to paint so photo-realistically 150 years before the invention of photography? Spanning a decade, Jenison’s adventure takes him to Holland, on a pilgrimage to the North coast of Yorkshire to meet artist David Hockney, and eventually even to Buckingham Palace. The epic research project Jenison embarks on is as extraordinary as what he discovers.

“Tim’s Vermeer” debuts on Blu-ray Combo Pack with a UIltraviolet digital copy. There is some great special features included as well. There is an awesome commentary with Teller, Tim Jenison, Penn Jillette & Farley Ziegler. If that isn’t enough there, is no joke, more than two and a half hours of deleted, extended & alternate scenes. Right there that is worth the purchase of the Blu-ray alone. Lastly there is a Q&A, which was taken from the Toronto International Film Festival.

Blu-ray Review “Longmire: The Complete First and Second Seasons”

Starring: Robert Taylor, Katee Sackhoff, Bailey Chase, Adam Bartley, Cassidy Freeman, Lou Diamond Phillips
Developed by: John Coveny, Hunt Baldwin
Number of discs: 6
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Archive Collection
DVD Release Date: May 27, 2014
Run Time: 1003 minutes

Seasons: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Have to admit, I do watch a lot of A&E TV, thanks you “Duck Dynasty” but I am not super familiar with this show, “Longmire”. This crime drama premiered in June 2012 on A&E and is based on the “Walt Longmire” series of mystery novels written by best-selling author Craig Johnson. In fact the release of The Complete First and Second Seasons coincides perfectly with the third season, which premiered on June 2, 2014. The show has that Western feel for me, set in Wyoming. The show reminded me of the recent HBO series “True Detective”, it is slow to reveal but still entertaining. If you dig this show, saddle up since this Blu-ray debut will definitely rope you in.

Official Premise: Long shadows of secrets and murder hang over Absaroka County, Wyoming, jurisdiction of the tough and brooding Sheriff Walt Longmire (Robert Taylor) who’s been struggling since his wife¹s death a year ago. At the urging of his attorney daughter, Cady (Cassidy Freeman), Walt knows he must turn his life around. Aided by a new female deputy, Vic (Katee Sackhoff) and his oldest friend, Henry Standing Bear (Lou Diamond Phillips), he becomes re-energized about his job and runs for re-election ­ even though his ambitious younger deputy Branch (Bailey Chase) is a rival candidate. The unraveling truth about Walt¹s wife’s death will astonish the stoic lawman and his daughter.

Besides the main cast, the first two seasons have had a nice variety of guest stars as well including Louis Herthum (“The Last Exorcism”), Katherine LaNasa (“The Campaign”), Charles S. Dutton (“Roc”), Gerald McRaney (“Major Dad”), Michael Mosley (“Last Resort”), Lee Tergesen (“Oz”) and Peter Weller (“Robocop”). Since all this solving of murder cases take place under the big skies of Wyoming, I have to admit that the 1080p high definition transfer are quite impressive with their original aspect ratio of 1.78:1. Also Warner Archive delivered their best audio track yet with this DTS HD-Master Audio 5.1.

Also in a rare move for Warner Archive, they have a decent set of special features included. “The Camera’s Eye: Realizing the World of Longmire” talks about the shooting locations for the setting of the show. “Longmire Justice: Exploring the Cowboy Detective” takes us into the lead character. There are extended episodes for “Sound and Fury” and “Election Day” both with Intros by Executive Producers. Lastly, there is a featurette, “Testing Courage: The Storm Defines The Man”. Pretty impressive Warner Archive for sure. If they would have had some commentary track it would have been perfect.

Win a Blu-ray of the Oscar Nominated “Ernest & Celestine” [ENDED]

To celebrate the release of the Oscar Nominated “Ernest & Celestine” on Blu-ray, Media Mikes is excited one (1) copy of the Blu-ray combo pack to our readers. If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of this prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email with your favorite animated film. This giveaway will remain open until June 20th at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to our readers in US and Canada only. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email

Academy Award® nominee for Best Animated Feature Film
100% Fresh/Certified Fresh –Rotten Tomatoes

Featuring the voices of Forest Whitaker, Mackenzie Foy, Lauren Bacall, Paul Giamatti, William H. Macy, Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman, and Jeffrey Wright!

Deep below snowy, cobblestone streets, tucked away in networks of winding tunnels, lives a tiny mouse named Celestine. Unlike her fellow mice, Celestine is an artist and a dreamer, and has a hard time fitting in. When she nearly ends up as breakfast for a grumpy bear named Ernest, the two become fast friends and embark on an adventure that will put a smile on your face and make your heart glow.

Sony Pictures Entertainment Celebrates “Ghostbusters” Milestone Anniversary with Theatrical Re-release and All-New Special Edition Blu-ray Anniversary Editions

Theatrical Re-release Hits Theaters August 29; Blu-ray Anniversary Editions of “Ghostbusters” and “Ghostbusters II” Available September 16

CULVER CITY, Calif. (June 5, 2014) – Sony Pictures Entertainment will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its blockbuster franchiseGhostbusters with a series of special events and home entertainment releases.  As a highlight of the celebration, the original 1984 film has been restored and remastered in 4K and will be returning to the big screen, in over 700 locations in the United States and Canada, for a limited engagement starting August 29 (Labor Day weekend).

Commenting on the announcement, Rory Bruer, president, Worldwide Distribution for Sony Pictures, said, “Ghostbusters is still one of our studio’s most beloved franchises – I was lucky enough to work on the release of the film on its first run, so it’s a real thrill for me to see that it’s still connecting with audiences everywhere.  On the big screen or in home entertainment, this is a great movie to experience again and again.”

Following the theatrical release of the film, on September 16, fans will be able to own the Ghostbusters 30th Anniversary Edition on Blu-ray and the Ghostbusters II 25th Anniversary Edition, as that film makes its Blu-ray debut.  The Sony Pictures Home Entertainment releases of the films will also be available in a two-disc anniversary edition Blu-ray™ Digibook including both films, as well as a Limited Edition gift set that includes an exclusive collectible Slimer figurine and the two-disc Digibook.  This special gift set will only be available for a very limited time, with the collectible Slimer figurine being a true must-have for fans. Both films have been fully restored and remastered in 4K and will be presented in high definition on Blu-ray from those 4K sources.

Both the Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II Blu-rays come loaded with exclusive bonus materials, including revealing conversations with director Ivan Reitman and Dan Aykroyd, as well as never-before-seen deleted scenes from Ghostbusters II and more. The Ghostbustersanniversary edition features the original music video of the Oscar® nominated song “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr., while Ghostbusters IIincludes the original music video for “On Our Own” by Bobby Brown. In addition, Ghostbusters will contain all previously released legacy content, commentary and an interactive Slimer Mode, offering fans a picture-in-picture graphical viewing experience.

“To celebrate this milestone anniversary, we wanted to create something new and collectible for fans.  These new Ghostbusters Blu-rays will feature the highest quality presentation along with new content that reflects the rich history of this iconic franchise,” said Lexine Wong, Senior Executive Vice President, Worldwide Marketing, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

Today also marks the premiere of the new website, GHOSTBUSTERS.COM, where fans can access new franchise offerings, including collectible merchandise, music, and more.  Fans can register for updates, unique video content, as well as Ghostbusters news.

There will also be a slew of new merchandise from Sony Pictures Consumer Products to be released. Collaborations include Lego, Mattel, Funko, Mad Engine and other select items to help celebrate the occasion. In addition, SPCP partnered with Gallery 1988 to create a once-in a lifetime experience, displaying original paintings, limited edition prints, and sculptures inspired by the film.

Finally, Legacy Recordings / Sony Music Entertainment, will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Ghostbusters soundtrack with multiple collectible vinyl LP releases this year.

Fans can follow the action on social media with the hashtag #GB30 or visiting the following sites:

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/Ghostbusters

Twitterhttps://twitter.com/Ghostbusters30

Instagramhttp://instagram.com/ghostbustersofficial

Pinteresthttp://www.pinterest.com/ghostbusters30/

 

Directed and produced by Ivan Reitman (Meatballs, Stripes), with the screenplay written by Dan Aykroyd (My Girl) and Harold Ramis (Knocked Up)GHOSTBUSTERS is listed as No. 28 on the AFI’s List of America’s Funniest Movies. Bill Murray (Stripes), Dan Aykroyd (Blues Brothers), and Sigourney Weaver (Aliens) star, along with Harold Ramis (Groundhog Day), and Rick Moranis (Honey I Shrunk the Kids). Ernie Hudson (TV’s “Oz”) and Annie Potts (TV’s “Designing Women”) also star in the films.

 

SYNOPSIS:

GHOSTBUSTERS: University parapsychologists Dr. Peter Venkman (Murray), Dr. Raymond Stanz (Aykroyd) and Dr. Egon Spengler (Ramis) lose a research grant when their experiment methodology is proven to be bogus. The team decides to go into business for themselves and open ‘Ghostbusters,’ a ghost removal service. After struggling to get on their feet, they are summoned to investigate the strange happenings in Dana Barrett’s (Weaver) Central Park West apartment. What they discover is that all Manhattan is being besieged by ghosts and other worldly demons through a portal in her building.

 

GHOSTBUSTERS II: Supernatural superstars Peter Venkman (Murray), Dr. Raymond Stanz (Aykroyd) and Dr. Egon Spengler (Ramis) spring back into action when the infant son of Dana Barrett (Weaver) becomes the target of a powerful demonic force. Reunited with their industrious secretary Janine (Potts) and the nerdy, near-sighted Louis (Moranis), the ‘heroes of the hereafter’ must put a stop to an enormous underground river ready to rot the roots of the entire Big Apple.

 

GHOSTBUSTERS™ Blu-ray Special Features:

  • NEW! Who You Gonna Call: A Ghostbusters Retrospective – Roundtable Discussion with Director Ivan Reitman and Dan Aykroyd (Part 1)
  • NEW! Poster Art Gallery – Gallery 1988 artwork
  • NEW! “Ghostbusters” Music Video – Ray Parker, Jr.
  •  Legacy Content:
  •     Slimer Mode – Picture in Picture and Trivia Track
  •     Commentary w/ Ivan Reitman, Harold Ramis & Joe Medjuck
  •     10 Deleted Scenes
  •     1984 Featurette
  •    Cast and Crew Featurette
  •     SFX Team Featurette
  •     Multi-Angles
  •     Ecto-1: Resurrecting the Classic Car
  •     Ghostbusters Garage: Ecto-1 Gallery Storyboard Comparisons

GHOSTBUSTERS™ II Blu-ray Special Features:

  • NEW! Time Is But A Window: Ghostbusters II and Beyond – Roundtable Discussion with Director Ivan Reitman and Dan Aykroyd (Part 2)
  • NEW! Deleted Scenes
  • NEW! “On Our Own” Music Video – Bobby Brown

 

GHOSTBUSTERS™ has a run time of approximately 105 minutes and is rated PG

GHOSTBUSTERS™ II has a run time of approximately 108 minutes and is rated PG.

 

About Sony Pictures Entertainment

Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE’s global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. For additional information, go to http://www.sonypictures.com.

Blu-ray Review “The Ringer”

Starring: Johnny Knoxville, Brian Cox, Katherine Heigl, Jed Rees, Geoffrey Arend, Luis Avalos
Director: Barry W. Blaustein
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: June 3, 2014
Run Time: 95 minutes

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

“The Ringer” is no question my favorite film of ALL TIME…about the Special Olympics. It is also one of Johnny Knoxville’s best roles to date alongside “Bad Grandpa”. The guy can actually act quite well when he is given the chance. This film is not only very funny but also has a big heart. ‘The Ringer” is a film that grows on you over time…and also is extremely quotable as well. I do not think a week goes by without either myself or my wife quoting this film. We will never be able to have ice ever again or talk about scratching a CD without thinking of “The Ringer”. I highly recommend checking this film out if you missed it over the years you will not be sorry.

Official Premise: Pressured by a greedy uncle (Brian Cox) and a pile of debt, loveable loser Steve Barker (Knoxville) resorts to an unthinkable, contemptible, just-crazy-enough-to-work scheme. He pretends to be mentally challenged to rig the upcoming Special Olympics and bring home the gold. But when Steve’s fellow competitors get wise to the con, they inspire him to rise to the greatest challenge of all: becoming a better person

The Blu-ray presentation for this release is good and what you would expect from a basic comedy. Solid 1080p transfer and good DTS-HD-Master Audio 5.1 track. I would have loved this release even more if Fox included a digital copy. In terms of special features, there is a jam packed audio commentary with director Barry W. Blaustein, screenwriter Ricky Blitt, producer Peter Farrelly and actors Johnny Knoxville, Edward Barbanell and John Taylor. There are some deleted scenes, a behind-the-scenes look with”Let The Games Begin: A Look at The Ringer” and a theatrical trailer included.

 

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Blu-ray Review “The Birdcage”

Actors: Robin Williams, Gene Hackman, Nathan Lane, Hank Azaria
Directed by: Mike Nichols
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: MGM (Video & DVD)
Release Date: June 3, 2014
Run Time: 119 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

“The Birdcage” is such a fantastic and very funny film. It was released during the peak time for stars Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. Topped with an amazing Gene Hackman, Dianne Wiest and Hank Azaria, who comes very close to stealing the whole show. It has been a while since I have last seen this film and it is still just as funny as the very first time that I saw it. “The Birdcage” is making it’s Blu-ray debut and it is crazy to believe that this wildly funny and successful film has never been released on Blu-ray before.  This is a great film but it is a not an overall fabulous debut on Blu-ray

Official Premise: Robin Williams and Nathan Lane team up with a top-notch cast in this hilarious comedy. Williams delivers an uproarious performance as Armand, a gay cabaret owner whose son announces he’s marrying the daughter of a right-wing politician (Gene Hackman). It’s an outrageously funny culture clash as Armand and his drag-queen partner Albert (Lane) try to transform themselves into straight shooters at a dinner party and pull the chiffon over the eyes of the uptight senator and his wife (Dianne Wiest).

This Blu-ray release was planned for the 90th anniversary of MGM and that seems to be the extent of it. There are no special features at all included for this release, which is just honestly lazy and a bit of a letdown. The 1080p transfer is solid and looks great for sure. Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio track. If you have never owned this film on DVD and really don’t care about special features, I could see someone buying this release. But personally, I do not feel that it is worth the upgrade to Blu-ray if you already have the DVD unless you absolutely in love for this film.

Blu-ray Review “13 Sins”

Actors: Mark Webber, Ron Perlman, Christopher Berry, Devon Graye
Directors: Daniel Stamm
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
Release Date: June 17, 2014
Run Time: 92 minutes

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

Back in 2010, I was helping to promote a film called “The Last Exorcism”, this was right when I started this website and I snagged a huge interview at the time with the director of that film, Daniel Stamm. I knew this guy was going to be a big name and I was lucky that I got him early. Fast forward to today, “13 Sins” is his next film and it headed directly to home release. I find that rather disappointing to be honest. The film itself is not disappointing though and has a lot of great aspects to it. It does have traits of the “Saw” franchise but it is able to take a rather fresh take on that idea. What the film also has is a sharp cast including Mark Webber (“Scott Pilgrim vs. the World”), Rutina Wesley (HBO’s “True Blood”) and Ron Perlman (“Hellboy”). The film also has a helluva punch at the end, which was quite surprising and ended up winning me over. I could see myself recommending this horror/thriller and hopefully we will be seeing a lot for from director Stamm.

Official Premise: Elliot (Mark Webber) is a bright but meek social services coordinator, drowning in debt and desperate because he’s about to marry the love of his life (Rutina Wesley). Upon receiving a cryptic phone call informing him that he’s on a hidden camera game show where he must execute 13 tasks, Elliot learns he will be on his way to winning a multimillion dollar cash prize if he quickly follows through with his first two instructions: swat the fly that is currently bothering him and then eat the fly. Although thousands of dollars are suddenly appearing in his bank account, Elliot remains suspicious, though comforted by the knowledge that he can stop playing at any time if only to lose every penny that he’s won. As he leaves a path of destruction behind him and runs away from the law (Ron Perlman), Elliot’s need to complete the game escalates as the tasks grow increasingly sinister, to a devastating point of no return.

The 1080p transfer looks awesome for this film. The cinematography is also well done and really works for the film’s setting. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 really delivers some impress sound especially for the key bone saw scenes…Yikes! In terms of special fearures there is a great audio commentary track with Stamm along with Webber, Perlman, and Graye. Besides that there is a decent behind-the-scenes look into “The Making of 13 Sins”. It is a little short but does pack a lot into it. There is a complete deleted sequence from the film, which runs just over five minutes. It is an already seen for sure involved oral sex (oh yeah!) but it was well cut. The alternate ending is pretty kick ass as well and included a nice twist also. Lastly “Anatomy of a Meltdown” features Stamm talking about the scene.

“The Sopranos: The Complete Series” Blu-ray with Digital HD arrives on November 4th

THE SOPRANOS®: THE COMPLETE SERIES BLU-RAY WITH DIGITAL HD
Collectible Box Set Featuring All Six Seasons of the Groundbreaking Series Available for the First Time on Blu-ray with Digital HD, November 4, 2014. Just in Time for Holiday Gift Giving

Complete Series Blu-ray Set is Packed with More Than Five Hours of Bonus Content, Including a Never-Before-Seen Feature Exploring the Legacy and Impact of the Game-Changing Series

New York, NY (June 4, 2014) – Fifteen years after making its revolutionary debut and radically altering the TV landscape, fans of the legendary HBO® series The Sopranos can now experience the show like never before. This fall, all 86 episodes of the beloved Emmy®, Golden Globe® and Peabody Award-winning series are available for the first time in a Blu-ray with Digital HD collector set in 1080p high definition. With 28 Blu-ray discs packaged in an elegant box set featuring iconic artwork from the series, The Sopranos: The Complete Series Blu-ray ($279.98) is an essential addition to any home entertainment collection. Featuring all six seasons plus bonus materials, this must-have set will be out in stores exclusively from HBO Home Entertainment on November 4, 2014 – just in time for the holidays.

Blu-ray with Digital HD Set Special Features
The Sopranos: The Complete Series Blu-ray comes with a free Digital HD copy of all 86 episodes, and the set is also loaded with more than five hours of bonus material including a new and exclusive feature exploring how The Sopranos came to be and how it transformed the television landscape. “Defining a Television Landmark,” which runs approximately 45 minutes, features all-new interviews with cast, crew, celebrities, filmmakers and academics — including series creator David Chase, star James Gandolfini, Academy Award® winning director Steven Soderbergh, Emmy® Award winner Jeff Daniels and Golden Globe winner Steve Buscemi — discussing the impact and influence of the groundbreaking series, with brand new archival footage. Additional bonus material includes lost scenes, two round table dinners with cast and crew, 25 audio commentaries and much more.

About The Sopranos
For six seasons, millions of viewers loyally tuned in to HBO to watch the drama unfold as modern-day mob boss Tony Soprano juggled responsibilities between his family and his other “family.” Hailed as “a remarkable achievement” by the Wall Street Journal and “the greatest show in TV history” by Vanity Fair, David Chase’s drama series The Sopranos stars three-time Emmy® winners James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano and Edie Falco as Tony’s wife Carmela, plus Lorraine Bracco as therapist Dr. Jennifer Melfi, Emmy® winner Michael Imperioli as Tony’s nephew Christopher Moltisanti and Dominic Chianese as Uncle Junior. Other series regulars include Robert Iler as Anthony Soprano, Jr., Jamie-Lynn Sigler as Meadow Soprano, Tony Sirico as Paulie Walnuts, Steven Van Zandt as Silvio Dante, Aida Turturro as Tony’s sister Janice, Steven R. Schirripa as Bobby “Bacala” Baccalieri, John Ventimiglia as Artie Bucco, Vincent Curatola as Johnny Sack, Frank Vincent as Phil Leotardo and Ray Abruzzo as Little Carmine.

The Sopranos: The Complete Series
Exclusively on Blu-ray with Digital HD
Street Date: November 4, 2014
Order Date: July 22, 2014
Rating: TV MA
Runtime: Approx. 83 Hours
Price: $279.98

“Rio 2” Flies Home on 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray & DVD July 15

Get More Music, More Fun and More Laughs When the Hilarious Comedy Adventure Flies Home on 3D Blu-ray™, Blu-ray™ & DVD July 15

The Blu-ray™ Comes with More Than an Hour of Special Features
Including 15 Exclusive Levels of ANGRY BIRDS RIO and Two Bonus Songs!

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (June 3rd, 2014) – Get ready to shake your tail feathers! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment takes you deep into the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest for the most fun you’ll have all summer, as RIO 2 debuts on 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray and DVD July 15. Just in time for summer vacation, this “hilarious family adventure” (Jeff Craig, Sixty Second Preview) will samba its way into your home with exciting bonus features and extras everyone will enjoy. Projected to eclipse more than $490 million worldwide at the box office, the animated hit is the must-own family title of the season.

The cast of the animated hit comedy Rio returns — along with a new flock of all-star voice talent, including Bruno Mars, Kristin Chenoweth, Andy Garcia and more — in this high-flying sequel for the whole family. The party continues when Blu (Oscar® nominee Jesse Eisenberg1), Jewel (Oscar® winner Anne Hathaway2) and their three kids take a walk on the wild side and embark on a colorful, comical, music-filled journey through the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit into his new surroundings, he goes beak-to-beak with the villainous Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all: his father-in-law!

The RIO 2 Blu-ray™ and DVD brings everything you loved from the first Rio, but with even more laughs, excitement and music! Not only will kids get nearly an hour and a half of bonus features on the RIO 2 Blu-ray™, but they’ll also get their groove on with two downloadable bonus songs from the RIO 2 soundtrack: “I Will Survive” and “Poisonous Love,” both performed by Gabi (Kristin Chenoweth) and Nigel (Jemaine Clement). For even more fun, every Blu-ray™ comes with 15 exclusive levels for Angry Birds Rio™ and Music Machine Sing-Along and Dance-Along songs for a whole family party! There’s also Janelle Monáe’s “What is Love” lyric video, a deleted scene, character auditions and much more!

 

“Twin Peaks: The Entire Mystery” comes to Blu-ray July 29th

DAVID LYNCH AND MARK FROST’S GROUNDBREAKING CULT PHENOMENON ARRIVES ON BLU-RAY™ WITH THE LONG-AWAITED DEBUT OF NEARLY 90 MINUTES OF DELETED/ALTERNATE SCENES FROM TWIN PEAKS: FIRE WALK WITH ME

For The First Time Ever, Acclaimed Television Series And Feature Film Arrive In One Complete Box Set With Upgraded Picture, Newly Produced And Archival Special Features …All Under the Personal Supervision of David Lynch Available July 29, 2014

 HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (May 15, 2014) – Twenty-five years after the shocking murder of Laura Palmer in the acclaimed series from legendary filmmaker David Lynch and writer/producer Mark Frost, CBS Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Media Distribution will release TWIN PEAKS – THE ENTIRE MYSTERY.

Arriving for the first time on stunning High Definition Blu-ray with English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio on July 29th, this comprehensive collection contains every episode from the complete television series; both the U.S. and international versions of the series’ Pilot; the North American Blu-ray debut of Lynch’s follow-up feature Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me; and nearly 90 minutes of deleted and alternate scenes from the film. The set also features newly transferred Log Lady introductions for each episode; picture upgrades to many shots in the TV series; a new featurette with Lynch and the actors who portrayed the Palmer family which includes a mesmerizing return to the lives of their characters today; and hours of never-before-released material that dives into the fascinating story behind the celebrated pop culture classic.

Along with a newly transferred version of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me, created from a 4K scan of the original negative, TWIN PEAKS – THE ENTIRE MYSTERY Blu-ray box set boasts the long-awaited missing pieces from the original version of the film– nearly an hour-and-a-half of deleted/alternate scenes from Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me – often referred to as the “holy grail” of Twin Peaks fandom. This feature-length experience has been directed and edited by Lynchexclusively for this release. Capping off more than 30 deleted/alternate scenes is an epilogue providing a fascinating glimpse beyond the cliffhanger finale of the TV series.

“During the last days in the life of Laura Palmer many things happened, which have never been seen before” said David Lynch. “They’re here now alongside the new transfer of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me and Twin Peaks, the television series.”

“We set the bar very high with our prior complete series TWIN PEAKS DVD Gold Box,” said Ken Ross, Executive Vice President and General Manager, CBS Home Entertainment.

THE ENTIRE MYSTERY Blu-ray had to be spectacular in terms of both content and presentation. We are confident that we hit the mark and are bringing the fans something very special. None of this could have been possible without the day-to-day involvement of David Lynch.”

TWIN PEAKS – THE ENTIRE MYSTERY is loaded with special features. In the two-part feature “Between Two Worlds,” Lynch himself interviews the Palmer family (Leland, Sarah and daughter Laura) about their current existence in this life and the next, and follows up with a discussion with the actors who portray them. TWIN PEAKS – THE ENTIRE MYSTERY alsofeatures “Moving Through Time: Fire Walk With Me Memories,” an exclusive retrospective documentary featuring interviews with cast and crew who recount the making of the Twin Peaks movie and working with David Lynch. The collection also features high-definition versions of the Log Lady episode introductions, transferred from recently unearthed 16mm film negative, a selection of newly discovered deleted scenes and outtakes from the television series, and three Twin Peaks photo galleries with over 130 behind-the-scenes images from David Lynch’s personal never-before-released collection. Also new to this release are 10 vignettes of iconic Twin Peaks themes called “Atmospherics.” Each features a unique montage of music, dialogue and video (including some rare outtakes) that appear as both menu backgrounds and as their own textless experience to further immerse fans in the mysterious world of Twin Peaks.

Additionally, the set features a massive collection of pre-existing special features, some of which have been re-mastered in high definition exclusively for this release, including the award-winning four-part documentary “Secrets From Another Place: Creating Twin Peaks,” and a newly extended version of the Gold Box featurette “A Slice of Lynch,” featuring the complete and uncut conversation between David Lynch and actors Kyle MacLachlan and Mädchen Amick. Additionally, this 10-disc set houses an extraordinary archive of special features culled from the entire history of Twin Peaks on home video, including featurettes, cast and crew interviews, promotional reels, archival deleted scenes…and much, much more.

Winning a Golden Globe® for Best Television Series – Drama in 1991, and a fixture in all-time top TV series lists from TIME, Entertainment Weekly and TV Guide, Twin Peaks follows the inhabitants of a quaint northwestern town who are stunned after the homecoming queen Laura Palmer is suddenly found murdered. The investigation that follows engenders an eerie chain of events with cataclysmic results felt across the entire town. The series features an ensemble cast including Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Sheryl Lee, Sherilyn Fenn, Lara Flynn Boyle, Mädchen Amick, Dana Ashbrook, Richard Beymer, Ray Wise, Peggy Lipton and
Warren Frost. Although shot after the series ended, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me is the prequel to the television series and focuses on the seven days leading up to Laura Palmer’s death. Many of the TV series cast members reprise their roles in the film and are joined by others including
Kiefer Sutherland, David Bowie, Chris Isaak and Harry Dean Stanton.

TWIN PEAKS – THE ENTIRE MYSTERY will be available in 1080p with English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio (Series and Feature), original English Stereo 2.0 (Series and Feature), Latin American Spanish Mono (Series), Latin American Spanish Stereo (Feature), Brazilian Portuguese Mono (Series), French Mono (Series), French 5.1 (Feature), Italian Mono (Series), Italian Stereo (Feature), German Mono (Series), German 5.1 (Feature), Castilian Mono (Series), Castilian Stereo (Feature), Japanese Mono (Series), and Japanese Stereo (Feature). The 10-disc collection also includes English SDH, Latin American Spanish, French, Italian, German, Castilian, Japanese, Dutch, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, and Finnish subtitles (Series and Feature).

It will be available for the suggested retail price of $109.99 U.S. and $129.99 Canada.  The disc breakdown is as follows:

 

Disc One:

  • Pilot
    • Original Version
    • Alternate International Version
  • Episode 1
  • Episode 2
  • Special Features

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Two:

  • Episode 3
  • Episode 4
  • Episode 5
  • Episode 6
  • Episode 7
  • Special Features

o    Season 1 Image Gallery

o    Twin Peaks Sneak Peeks (HD)

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Previews and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Three:

  • Episode 8
  • Episode 9
  • Episode 10
  • Special Features

o    A Slice of Lynch: Uncut (HD) – NEW!

o    Season 2 Image Gallery

o    Promos (HD/SD)

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Four:

  • Episode 11
  • Episode 12
  • Episode 13
  • Episode 14
  • Special Features

o    Series Deleted Scenes

o    Series Deleted Scenes (HD) – NEW!

o    Outtakes (HD) – NEW!

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Five:

  • Episode 15
  • Episode 16
  • Episode 17
  • Episode 18
  • Special Features

o    Return To Twin Peaks

o    Location Guide

o    The Glastonbury Archives

  • 17 Pieces of Pie: Shooting at the Mar T (AKA RR) Diner
  • Mark Frost Interview with Wrapped in Plastic
  • Learning to Speak in the Red Room
  • An Introduction to David Lynch
  • Lucy Bumpers
  • 1-900 Hotline
  • Production Documents
  • Image Galleries

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Six:

  • Episode 19
  • Episode 20
  • Episode 21
  • Episode 22
  • Special Features

o    Postcards From The Cast

o    Twin Peaks Sneak Peaks (HD)

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Seven:

  • Episode 23
  • Episode 24
  • Episode 25
  • Episode 26
  • Special Features

o    Cast And Crew Interviews

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Eight:

  • Episode 27
  • Episode 28
  • Episode 29
  • Special Features

o    Secrets From Another Place: Creating Twin Peaks (HD)

  • Northwest Passage: Creating the Pilot
  • Freshly Squeezed: Creating Season One
  • Where We’re From: Creating the Music
  • Into the Night: Creating Season Two

o    Log Lady Intros (HD)

o    Preview and recaps on select episodes (HD)

 

Disc Nine:

  • Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me
  • The Missing Pieces: Deleted/Alternate Scenes (HD)NEW!
  • Special Feature

o    Archival Interviews

 

Disc Ten:

  • Special Features

o    Between Two Worlds (HD) – NEW!

  • Palmer Family Interview
  • Actors Discussion

o    Moving Through Time: Fire Walk With Me Memories (HD) – NEW!

o    Reflections On The Phenomenon Of Twin Peaks

o    US Trailer

o    International Trailer

o    Fire Walk With Me Photo Gallery – NEW!

o    Atmospherics (HD) – NEW!

  • Trees/Woods
  • Pie
  • Signs/Places
  • Coffee
  • Notes
  • Water
  • Donuts
  • Owls
  • The Ring
  • The Red Room

Please visit andthemissingpieces.tumblr.com for the latest details on TWIN PEAKS – THE ENTIRE MYSTERY. Use #theentiremystery to join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

High Definition special features are denoted (HD).  Configuration and names of special features are subject to change.

CBS Home Entertainment manages the worldwide DVD and Blu-ray businesses for the CBS Corporation across all lines of content including current hits and classic series from the vast CBS library, as well as new releases from Showtime Video.  CBS Home Entertainment products are released on the CBS DVD and CBS Blu-ray labels.

Paramount Home Media Distribution (PHMD) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment.  PPC is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands.  The PHMD division oversees PPC’s home entertainment, digital and television distribution activities worldwide. The division is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment content on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and CBS and for providing home entertainment fulfillment services for certain DreamWorks Animation Home Entertainment titles.  PHMD additionally manages global licensing of studio content and distribution across worldwide digital and television distribution platforms including online, mobile and portable devices and emerging technologies.

TWIN PEAKS — THE ENTIRE MYSTERY BLU-RAY

Street Date:                  July 29, 2014

Suggest retail price:      $109.99 US / $129.99 CAN

Catalog #:                     144394

Series Run Time:           Approx. 25 hours, 3 minutes

Film Run Time:              Approx. 2 hours, 14 minutes

Series U.S. Rating:        NR

Film U.S. Rating:           R – Strong Violence, Sex and Drug Content, Language

Series CAN Rating:        14A – Mature Theme

Film CAN Rating:           18A – Sexual Violence, Sexual Content, Disturbing Content