Blu-ray Review “Fargo: Remastered”

Starring: Frances McDormand, William H. Macy, Steve Buscemi, Peter Stormare, John Carroll Lynch, Harve Presnell
Directors: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: MGM
Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 99 minutes

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

Anytime, I watch “Fargo” it never ceases to amaze me. The film is so dark, yet at the same time SO funny. You are just sitting on your couch going “What the hell just happened”, disgusted yet laughing. It has been a few years since I saw it but it is still as good as always. Since MGM is celebrating its 90th Anniversary, they are re-releasing this Blu-ray but as a brand new remastered edition. If you are not aware this was already released on Blu-ray in 2009 and 2011, but with great results. But this new remastered edition looks even better. Now, if you compare it to MGM’s also recently re-released “Robocop”, it is not as impressive since that was a 4K transfer upgrade. If you never owned this film before, this version is definitely the edition you want. If you already own this I would really run out unless you are a HD video junkie and need that perfect transfer.

Official Premise: The “middle of nowhere” has never looked better in this new edition, now remastered for the best high-definition picture yet! In this film Nominated for seven Oscars things go terribly awry when small-time Minnesota car salesman Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy) hires two thugs (Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare) to kidnap his wife so he can collect the ransom from his wealthy father-in-law. Once people start dying, the very chipper and very pregnant Police Chief Marge (Frances McDormand) takes the case. Will she stop at nothing until she gets her man? You betcha.

When I looked back at my old 2009 Blu-ray, I did realize quite the improvement with the new remastered 1080p transfer. You can tell right from that amazing opening shot. The snowy world that engulfs the film looks much clearly and also sharper. When it comes to The Coen Brothers, you should expect specific choices for cinematography, kudos to  Roger Deakins. This film is really a great example of a fantastic well-shot film presented perfectly on Blu-ray. In terms of audio tracks, this Blu-ray re-uses the same DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track from the previous disc, but that doesn’t mean it is bad. The previous releases have sounded quite amazing, specifically Carter Burwell’s score which is outstanding.

I was hoping for something new in the special features department but what we get here is the same extras from the previously Blu-ray’s, which then was also a straight port from the DVD version.  There is an audio commentary track from director of photography Roger Deakins, if you enjoyed the cinematography like I did then this is a great track. There are a few featurettes “Minnesota Nice” and “Trivia Nice”. Lastly, there is an “Article from American Cinematographer” and a theatrical trailer, TV spot and photo gallery included. If there was a little more in this department, this would would have been a must-upgrade for any fan for sure.

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Enter to Win The Coen Brothers’ “Fargo” Remastered on Blu-ray [ENDED]

To celebrate the release of “Fargo” remastered on Blu-ray, Media Mikes is excited to giveaway one (1) copy of the film Blu-ray. 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 Coen Brothers to date (doesn’t have to be “Fargo”, don’t worry). This giveaway will remain open until April 18th 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

The “middle of nowhere” has never looked better in this new edition, now remastered for the best high-definition picture yet! In this film Nominated for seven OSCARS®, things go terribly awry when small-time Minnesota car salesman Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy) hires two thugs (Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare) to kidnap his wife so he can collect the ransom from his wealthy father-in-law. Once people start dying, the very chipper and very pregnant Police Chief Marge (Frances McDormand) takes the case. Will she stop at nothing until she gets her man? You betcha.
 
Special Features
• Feature Audio Commentary with Director of Photography Roger A. Deakins
• Minnesota Nice
• Trivia Track
• American Cinematographer Article
• Photo Gallery
• Theatrical Trailer
• TV Spot
Fargo Blu-ray
Street Date:  April 1, 2014
Prebook Date:  March 5, 2014
Screen Format:  Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:  English DTS-HD MA 5.1
Spanish DTS 5.1
French DTS 5.1
Subtitles:  English/Spanish/French
U.S. Rating R
Total Run Time:  140 minutes
Closed Captioned:  Yes

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Check out MGM 90th tumblr – http://www.mgm90th.com/ also. There are tons of great gifs from MGM films, including Fargo, if you want to check it out.

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Blu-ray Review “Grudge Match”

Actors: Sylvester Stallone, Robert De Niro, Kevin Hart, Kim Basinger, Alan Arkin
Directors: Peter Segal
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: April 8, 2014
Run Time: 113 minutes

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

Who doesn’t want to see Rocky Balboa go head-to-head with Jake La Motta? Stallone and De Niro are both aging stars but they still have a lot of punch left in them. This is a great match up and a really entertaining film. I think it was overlooked and not given the time of day since it came out during a busy holiday season but if you love these actors then this film is a blast to watch. Plus it packs a fantastic supporting cast including Alan Arkin, Kevin Hart, Jon Bernthal and Kim Basinger. I would recommend getting in the ring with these guys since you will get into extra rounds for sure.

Official Premise: Two retired boxers, Billy “The Kid” McDonnen (De Niro) and Henry “Razor” Sharp (Stallone), have a thirty year-old grudge which has never subsided. The cause of their bad blood? Razor retired the night before a crucial title match, destroying both mens’ careers in the process. Time passes. One boxer becomes a rich playboy, the other lives a modest life. Now they have an opportunity to even the score with one last match.

Warner Brothers delivered another great Blu-ray for “Grudge Match” with this combo pack including Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital Ultraviolet copy. This is becoming the norm with their films and I loved it. The 1080p transfer is rock solid and really captures the action in and out of the ring with this film. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track also doesn’t miss a punch. It is right there ringside and delivers all the action.

There special features are solid like the film. I just would have loved a commentary track to accompany this film afterwards. “The Bull & The Stallion” talks about teaming up these legendary actors together. “In the Ring with Kevin Hart” is Kevin Hart being Kevin Hart and stealing the show. “Ringside with Tyson & Holyfield” features these also legendary fighters giving their commentary. “Blow for Blow with Larry Holmes: Kevin Hart Unedited” is another great feature with the comedian. Lastly there is an Alternate Opening and also Alternate Endings with an Introduction by Peter Segal and finally some Additional Deleted Scenes included.

Own “GRUDGE MATCH” on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on 4/8

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3D Blu-ray Review “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”

Actors: Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Ian McKellen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Orlando Bloom
Directors: Peter Jackson
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: New Line Home Video
DVD Release Date: April 8, 2014
Run Time: 161 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3D: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Despite what anyone says, I loved “The Desolation Of Smaug”. I was literally unable to blink during this film. I have people backing me as well. My wife (unlike myself) was not a huge fan of “An Unexpected Journey” yet she also loved this film. I thought it was a action packed thrilling fantasy adventure ride through Jackson’s Middle-earth. I am literally counting down the days till the conclusion film to the trilogy “There and Back Again”. I agree compared to the book, this trilogy might be a little stretched out but as a fan of Jackson’s Rings trilogy. I just want more. I would definitely recommend this theatrical cut on Blu-ray, especially in 3D. I stress theatrical cut because we all know that there will be an extended cut released this Fall to time with theatrical release of “There and Back Again”. Still though, this is no question of my favorite films of 2013.

Official Premise: “The Desolation of Smaug” continues the adventure of Bilbo Baggins (Freeman) as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf (McKellan) and thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield (Armitage), on an epic quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor. Having survived the beginning of their unexpected journey, the Company travels East, encountering along the way skin-changer Beorn and a swarm of giant spiders in the treacherous forest of Mirkwood. After escaping capture by the dangerous Wood-elves, the Dwarves journey to Lake-town, and finally to the Lonely Mountain itself, where they must face the greatest danger of all–a creature more terrifying than any other; one which will test not only the depth of their courage but the limits of their friendship and the wisdom of the journey itself: the dragon Smaug (Cumberbatch).

Warner Brothers really delivered an amazing release for “The Desolation of Smaug” with a combo pack including a Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital UltraViolet copy. The film is much darker in color and tone compared to “An Unexpected Journey” but I think that the 1080p transfer really looks even better than the first film. The 3D transfer particularly stands out for me. When I saw “An Unexpected Journey”, I thought it had a few great 3D moments but this film really stepped it up a notch. Just seeing Smaug in 3D is worth the purchase alone. What is also good is that the film also plays well in 2D as well. I think that is not the case always and a real bonus. Now concerning the DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track, it is absolutely flawless. The action is perfectly toned and the score is well-balanced. I had the picture framed on the walls shaking with this release. Highly recommended.

When it comes to the special features, like “An Unexpected Journey” theatrical cut Blu-ray as well, I am left wanting more. I guess we will all have to wait till the extended edition release to get some real special features. “Peter Jackson Invites You to the Set” is a two part look into the behind-the-scenes on this production. There are four Production Videos featurettes including “Introduction to Pick-Ups Shooting,” “Recap of Pick-Ups, Part 1,” “Recap of Pick-Ups, Part 2” and “Music Scoring.” “Live Event: In the Cutting Room” is a recording of the March 2013 worldwide live event where Jackson answered fans questions and gave a tour of his production facilities. “New Zealand: Home of Middle-earth, Part 2” gives a follow up look into the locations. Lastly there are Trailers & Previews and Music Video for “I See Fire” by Ed Sheeran.

Own “THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG” Limited Collector’s Edition Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D Combo pack, Blu-ray Combo pack, 2-disc DVD special edition, and Digital HD on 4/8

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Blu-ray Review “The Pirate Fairy”

Starring: Mae Whitman, Christina Hendricks, Tom Hiddleston, Lucy Liu, Raven-Symoné, Megan Hilty
Director: Peggy Holmes
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

“The Pirate Fairy” is the latest entry in the Tinker Bell led “Disney Fairies” direct-to-video CG-animated movie series. The last one “Secret of the Wings” was one of my favorites and was also in amazing 3D. This one has last that added dimension but is still an amazing film. It introduces us to a new strong female lead fairy Zarina (voiced of Christina Hendricks, “Mad Men”) and also a captain boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston aka Marvel’s Loki)…hint hint who could be hooked to become a captain. These films are very cute and fun as well. My daughter is nearly two and she absolutely loves the Disney Fairies, especially Tinker Bell. I mean what girl doesn’t? This series is great for them and I hope that Disney continues these forever!

Official Premise: From the world of Peter Pan comes The Pirate Fairy, a swashbuckling new adventure about Zarina (voice of Christina Hendricks), a smart and ambitious dust-keeper fairy who’s captivated by Blue Pixie Dust and its endless possibilities. When Zarina’s wild ideas get her into trouble, she flees Pixie Hollow and joins forces with the scheming pirates of Skull Rock, who make her captain of their ship. Tinker Bell (voice of Mae Whitman) and her friends must embark on an epic adventure to find Zarina, and together they go sword-to-sword with the band of pirates led by a cabin boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston), who’ll soon be known as Captain Hook, himself.

Disney released this film with a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital copy. Since Disney has started their own streaming online service, I have been loving this option. I hope they make an Android app sooner than later…not everyone has an Apple product Disney! The 1080p transfer is mind-blowing. The detail and work that must go into these films must be ridiculous. They create this world in these films and it looks so beautiful and magically. The colors are so vibrant and feel so fresh. If that wasn’t enough this Blu-ray comes with an outstanding DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track, that’s right 7.1. Since this film is more action based, it is very impressive.

The Blu-ray is also packed with great special features both for kids and the adults. “Second Star to the Right: The Legacy of Never Land” gives you the chance to explore Never Land’s history and its endless ability to inspire. “The Making of ‘The Frigate That Flies'” takes you behind-the-scenes with Tom Hiddleston at the song recording. “Croc-u-mentary” is a funny documentary about the character “Crocky”. Lastly, there are some Deleted Scenes and Sing-Along Songs included rounding out the extras. Fans of this series should really enjoy these extras after the film.


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Blu-ray Review “Walking with Dinosaurs: The Movie”

Actors: John Leguizamo, Justin Long, Tiya Sircar, Karl Urban
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 88 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Originally, when I first saw this announced that this was going to be pretty cool having a live-action CGI feature about the 1999 BBC series and live tour. The film packs a great ensemble of talent including: John Leguizamo (“Ice Age” series), Justin Long (“Alvin and the Chipmunks” series) and Karl Urban (“Star Trek” series). Unfortunately, the film just doesn’t really work at all. Visually, its pretty freaking awesome but other that that I had trouble even finishing this one. Plus the dinosaurs mouths don’t move, so these voices end up coming out of nowhere…where dinosaurs able to talk telepathically? I would steer pretty clear for this one unless your kids are huge dinosaur buffs.

Official Premise: The gigantic voice talents of Justin Long (Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise) and John Leguizamo (Ice Age franchise) take you on a thrilling prehistoric journey the whole family will enjoy! In a time when dinosaurs rule the Earth, the smallest of the pack — a playful Pachyrhinosaurus named Patchi — embarks on the biggest adventure of his life. As he tries to find his place in a spectacular world filled with fun-loving friends and a few dangerous foes, Patchi will discover the courage he needs to become the leader of the herd…and a hero for the ages.

Fox delivered this film in a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet copy. I personally am a little disappointed since this film was filmed with the latest in cutting edge 3D technology from the masters behind “Avatar”. So I am sure that would have made the viewing experience a little better but still not perfect. Also the Deluxe Edition release contains an extra called the Cretaceous Cut, which is the movie in its “natural” version aka without the voices coming out of non-moving mouths. Nonetheless, the 1080p transfer is still very impressive and the CG animation does look quite stunning. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works with the occasional action.

I am kind of conflicted about the special features here because, they lack any technical approach but they very educational and interactive for kids. Having a young daughter, I actually appreciate that even though I also wanted to see some a visual effects featurette personally. “The Ultimate Dino Guide” urges you to dive into and find out about greatest secrets about your favorite dinosaurs. “Match the Call” is a matching game which has you testing your skill on how the dinosaurs communicated. “Interactive Map” takes you on a tour on where the dinos roamed in comparison to today. Lastly “Brainosaur Trivia Track” is a pop-up track during the film giving fun and interesting facts.

 

Related Content

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Blu-ray Review “Delivery Man”

Actors: Vince Vaughn, Cobie Smulders, Chris Pratt
Directors: Ken Scott
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Touchstone Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 104 minutes

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

When I saw the trailer for “Delivery Man”, I couldn’t help but thinking poor Vince Vaughn. There was really no interest in this film at all from myself and the rest of the world as well. What is sad is that it does actually have a really good heart as well and a nice message of promoting family. It is a remake of the director, Ken Scott’s own 2011 French-Canadian comedy called “Starbuck”. I would say that if you like Vince Vaughn, I would recommend checking it out but I do not see myself really ever watching this again. What I like to call a one-timer.

Official Premise: Underachiever David Wozniak (Vince Vaughn) learns he’s actually an overachiever, having fathered 533 children via donations made twenty years earlier. But David soon discovers that the shock of his life might just be the best thing that’s ever happened to him. Along the way he discovers not only his true self, but also the father he could become.

Disney released this film in a bare-bones Blu-ray release with no DVD or Digital HD copy included. The 1080p video and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 work with the film but this is one that doesn’t benefit much from Blu-ray anyway. In the extras department, there are some decent special features but nothing amazing. “Building Family” is a behind-the-scenes look. “Vince Vaughn: Off The Cuff” features the actor doing what he does best, improving. “I Got The Part” is a feature focusing on the film’s very large cast. Lastly. there is one deleted scenes and some bloopers included.

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Blu-ray Review “Green Lantern: The Animated Series”

Voices of: Josh Keaton, Kevin Michael Richardson, Grey DeLisle, Jonathan Adams, Jason Spisak
Directed by: Sam Liu, Rick Morales
Studio: Warner Archive Collection
DVD Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 572 minutes

Series: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

Like the “Green Lantern” live-action movie, “Green Lantern: The Animated Series” was also not given the respect that it deserved. The series was cancelled after one season and didn’t even get a chance to pick up some steam. Cartoon Network started their “DC Nation” block and then pretty much canceled all of it including this show, “Beware the Batman (which is actually in limbo) and “Young Justice”. All great shows, just not given any love. This CGI series was slick, well-done and just looked awesome. I thought that they were really going somewhere with the story, which was well-written and had some great arcs. It is action packed and also very funny (like Green Lantern should be). All 26 episodes are included in this release. If you are a fan of DC Comics, I would recommend checking this series out…and be sure to spread the word to your friend so that Green Lantern shines bright.

Official Premise: In Brightest Day, In Blackest Night! Green Lantern shines bright in DC’s radiant, groundbreaking CGI animated series. The Green Lantern Corps patrols the galaxy, fighting evil. But in the farthest reaches of deep space where few Lanterns patrol, a new evil is rising – the Red Lanterns! Hal Jordan and fellow Lantern Kilowog defy The Guardians of the Universe and board a new experimental spacecraft, the Interceptor, and race to the Guardian Frontier to face the evil Red Lanterns head-on! But a menace lurks beyond the Red Lantern invasion and Hal, Kilowog and fellow Green Lanterns Tomar-Re and Aya discover an even greater evil that threatens to extinguish all life. It’s an interstellar race to destroy the mechanical Manhunters, aid Saint Walker and his Blue Lanterns and stop the planet-eating Anti-Monitor! Pick up this exciting double-disc complete series set to see if Green Lantern’s light can defeat these powerful new enemies! If not, the universe will fall into darkness!

Besides being a kick-ass show, “Green Lantern: The Animated Series” also packed a great voice cast including Josh Keaton (“The Spectacular Spider-Man”) as the voice of Hal Jordan/Green Lantern, Kevin Michael Richardson (“Thundercats”) as Kilowog, Grey DeLisle (“The Fairly OddParents”) as Aya and Jason Spisak (“Young Justice”) as Razer. There are also an amazing collection of guest voice stars included as well. Robert Englund (“A Nightmare on Elm Street”), Ron Perlman (“Hellboy”), Clancy Brown (“The Shawshank Redemption”), Wayne Knight (“Seinfeld”), Juliet Landau (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), Kurtwood Smith (“That 70’s Show”), Phil Morris (“Smallville”), Brian George (“Seinfeld”) and many more popped in to add their talent to this series.

What I really love about a Warner Archive Collection is that a show like this would normally sit on the shelf for a while and eventually get thrown out on DVD after years of waiting…or never at all. Warner Archive is hoping giving this show a new life by releasing it not only on DVD but also Blu-ray! They have been starting getting into Blu-ray and their releases have been fantastic. The 1080p transfer is solid and the colors are just so vibrant. One thing I loved about this show was the animation style and I feel that it is so sleak and eye-catching. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track also sounds great with the explosive action-packed episodes. The thing I do not like about Warner Archive is that most of their releases are also bare-bones like this one is, but I am happy we at least have this season now and I am able to spread the word about this great series, so h hopefully Cartoon Network will regret canceling it.

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Blu-ray Review “No Holds Barred (1989)”

Actors: Hulk Hogan, Joan Severance, Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister
Directors: Thomas J. Wright
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

When I was a kid growing up in the 80’s I was head over heels into wrestling! I couldn’t get enough. I remember when this film came out in 1989 and I saw my favorite wrestler Hulk Hogan “act” in a movie. I couldn’t have been more excited. What I enjoyed most is that I was as excited and entertained watching this today as I was when I was a kid. Hulk Hogan was and still is the man and here the guy is doing what he did best, wrestle, and he kicks some major ass. This film also kicked off a nice little wrestling career for Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister as he continued playing the role of Zeus even outside the film. If you are a fan of 80’s wrestling and films, in general, then I would definitely recommend checking this out!

Official Premise: When world wrestling champion Rip Thomas (WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan) refuses to join a competing network, an evil executive creates a new program, “The Battle of the Tough Guys,” where rules don’t exist and men engage in an all-out brawl for money. After a murdering ex-convict by the name of Zeus (Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister, The Dark Knight) comes out on top as the toughest man, an ultimate title match with Rip is the TV network’s best chance for big ratings. But when Rip refuses the challenge and his brother is roughed-up as a consequence, the world champion has no choice but to teach Zeus a lesson in a final ‘No Holds Barred’ fight to the finish.

This is the first time that “No Holds Barred” has ever been released on high-definition Blu-ray. The 1080p shows its age a bit but is still quite impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is a real treat as well from every power slam to audience member cheering sounds great. There are some Blu-ray exclusive special features as well, which are a great companion to the film. There is a “No Holds Barred Tag Team Steel Cage Match” from 12/27/1989 featuring Zeus and Randy Savage with Sensational Sherri vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake. There is also a “Summer Slam Tag Team Match” from 8/28/1989 featuring Zeus and Randy Savage with Sensational Sherri vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake with Miss Elizabeth. If you are a wrestling fan, these are a must way. Lastly there is also a Photo Gallery included.

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Blu-ray Review “Odd Thomas”

Actors: Anton Yelchin, Willem Dafoe, Addison Timlin
Directors: Stephen Sommers
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 96 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

“Odd Thomas” is based on Dean Koontz’s novel of the same name. It is directed, written and co-produced by Stephen Sommers, aka the director of “The Mummy” and “Van Helsing”. It stars the fantastic Anton Yelchin (“Fright Night”, “Star Trek”) and Willem Dafoe (“Spider-Man”). Where the hell did this film come from? And I also thought to myself why didn’t this film get a bigger release? Then I saw it. It is very ambitious and quite visual but also lacking that big-budget success factor. I call this a one-timer. But if you are a hardcore fan of the book, this is very true and will let you satisfied.

Official Premise: Small-town fry cook Odd Thomas (Anton Yelchin) is an ordinary guy with a paranormal secret: he sees dead people, everywhere. When a creepy stranger shows-up with an entourage of ghostly bodachs – predators who feed on pain and portend mass destruction – Odd knows that his town is in serious trouble. Teaming up with his sweetheart Stormy (Addison Timlin) and the local sheriff (Willem Dafoe), Odd plunges into an epic battle of good vs evil to try to stop a disaster of apocalyptic proportions.

Since this is from director of “The Mummy”, you would expect that this would be very visual effects heavy and in fact it actually is. The film packs some great VFX and the 1080p transfer support it very well. The film is also quite dark yet it still is very sharp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works well with the jumps and the creepy/yet action packed score. There are no special features included, which just blows my mind and screams LAZY to be honest. A featurette on the visual effects alone would have been great.

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Blu-ray Review “August: Osage County”

Actors: Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ewan McGregor, Chris Cooper
Directors: John Wells
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
DVD Release Date: April 8, 2014
Run Time: 120 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I saw the cast for “August: Osage County”. I knew it just had to be amazing. First of all anything starring Meryl Streep gets my vote right away. Top that with ace performances from (BIG BREATH) Julia Roberts, Ewan McGregor, Chris Cooper, Margo Martindale, Abigail Breslin, Benedict Cumberbatch, Juliette Lewis, Dermot Mulroney, Julianne Nicholson, Misty Upham and Sam Shepard (WHEW). Truly outstanding cast with just perfect and they are same time mentally and physically exhausting. Besides have the worst Blu-ray cover art of the year (how about the rest of the cast), this film was easily one of the best of 2013. A must see!

Official Premise: Streep and Roberts star in the darkly hilarious and deeply touching story of the strong-willed women of the Weston family, whose lives converge when a family crisis brings them back to the Midwest house they grew up in, and to the dysfunctional mother who raised them. August: Osage County is based on the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama-winning play by Tracy Letts, who is also known as Andrew Lockhart on Showtime’s Homeland. Director John Wells, best known as executive producer and showrunner of hit television series ER, The West Wing and Shameless, skillfully translates from stage to screen, leading an all-star cast.

Not sure why but we received a Blu-ray only disc to review with no DVD or Ultraviolet code. Now on Amazon.com they do have two versions for sale and in fact this non-combo pack is actually $5.00 more, which makes no sense to me. So if you buy this and I recommend it…be sure to get the combo pack. The 1080p really captures some of the beauty of Oklahoma‎, since most of the film takes place in Streep’s house. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works perfect with the score and the non-dialogue stage play dialogue.

The special features are decent for this release. There is an audio commentary with Director John Wells and Cinematographer Adriano Goldman. I actually found this very interesting and a nice complement to the film. There are some deleted scenes as well with Commentary by Wells and Goldman. There is a nice behind-the-scenes look at “The Making of August: Osage County”. Lastly there is a Writing Featurette with Tracy Letts, looking into the stage play to the film translation.

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Blu-ray Review “Beneath”

Actors: Daniel Zovatto, Mark Margolis
Directors: Larry Fessenden
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

When it comes to indie horror, Larry Fessenden (“The Last Winter”, “Wendigo”) is the man. When you see the poster for “Beneath” you might think “Oh it just another JAWS rip-off!” Well you will be wrong (sort of). It takes some good ideas from “Jaws” and made it its own. I was really impressive with this film because it packed some great scares and most importantly a practical effect fish, which was creepy as hell. It is rare that a film can nail good practical effects but this film has balls and delivers!

Official Premise: When a group of young friends commemorating their high school graduation take a trip to the remote Black Lake, their celebration turns into a nightmare with the sudden appearance of a bloodthirsty, underwater predator. Stuck in a leaking boat with no oars, the teens face the ultimate tests of friendship and sacrifice during a terror-stricken fight for survival.

Shout! Factory’s sub label Scream Factory has really given this a nice release. The Blu-ray comes along with a digital copy of the film (though a downer that it is not Ultraviolet, come on!) The 1080p transfer is solid and the practical effects look great in high-def (I had watched a crappy DVD screener, prior). The DTS-HD Master Audio track is also impressive with the scares and the perfectly tuned score.

This Blu-ray also comes jam-packed with great special features. There is an audio commentary with Larry Fessenden and Graham Reznick. This is very interested and highly recommend to re-watch the film. There are three featurettes including a great behind-the-scenes peek with “A Look Behind The Scenes: Making the Fish Movie”, “What’s In Black Lake?”, “From the Web: What the Zeke?” and “Fessenden on Jaws”, obviously cool to see where his inspiration came from. Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: beneath, bluray, review

Blu-ray Review “Ranma ½ Set 1”

Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Viz Media
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 530 minutes

Series: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Ranma ½ started off as an manga series back in 1987 in Japan, which was turned into a TV series shortly after in 1989. This is way before Japanese anime hit the US. The series got big here probably around the early 90’s and this and “Dragon Ball Z” were two of my favorite anime series growing up. Ranma ½ ius definitely unique and is an interesting blend of romance, comedy, action and marital arts. Thanks Viz Media this series is getting presented in high definition for the first time ever. Set 1 includes the first 23 episodes of the show, so since there are over 140 episodes total I would expect at least an additional six releases over the next year. If you are a fan of this series, then this is a new brainer.

Official Synopsis: From the legendary oeuvre of master creator Rumiko Takahashi, the mixed-up, madcap, martial arts romantic comedy Ranma ½ returns! After taking a surprise dip in a cursed spring while on a training journey in China, martial artist Ranma Saotome and his father, Genma, aren’t quite themselves anymore. Now Ranma turns into a girl whenever he’s splashed with cold water, and Genma turns into a panda. Their new forms cause nothing but confusion at the Tendo dojo, where Soun Tendo is waiting to introduce one of his three daughters to Ranma… as his fiancée. Turns out Genma and Soun arranged the match long ago, but the girl, Akane, and the boy, Ranma, aren’t exactly crazy about the idea, or each other! Or are they? Watch the gender switching, jealous rages, and martial arts battles unfold all over again!

Having watching this show on bootleg VHS tapes growing up, these 1080p transfers are stunning with high quality encodes created using the original Japanese Blu-ray masters. Fans are able to enjoy each episode with an  uncropped, 4:3 aspect ratio. Another first time for this release is that all episodes are arranged in the original Japanese episode order. There are both lossless tracks available for the original Japanese (with English subtitles) and the English dub, and a secondary subtitle track is available for signs and songs. The box presentation also for this set is amazing coming in a premium chipboard box with gold foil stamping with art illustrated by Rumiko Takahashi. Inside it also includes a 64-page booklet with a full color episode guide and a manga re-master sampler.

If you were satisfied with all that, wait there is still more in this Limited Edition box set. There are some decent extras including an exclusive “We Love Ranma: Part 1” Manga Re-Mastering Interview with VIZ Media editor Hope Donovan, which talks about the processes behind the latest manga release. There is two great extras taken from 2013 New York Comic Con this past year with “Ranma ½ Panel Footage” and “VIZ Media Events Highlight Reel”. Lastly there are upcoming episode previews and trailers included here. Can’t wait for Set 2! Keep them coming Viz!

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1, ½, bluray, ranma, review, set, ...

Blu-ray Review “The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923)”

Actors: Lon Chaney
Directed by: Wallace Worsley
Format: Black & White, Silent, Subtitled
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Flicker Alley
DVD Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 112 minutes

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

When I see that a film is being released from the company Flicker Alley, I know I have to take closer look. Their most recent venture brings the Lon Cheney Classic, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923)” to Blu-ray for the very first time with this beautiful new restoration. Lon Chaney really embodied the character of Quasimodo and feels like he came right off the pages of original illustrations of Victor Hugo’s novel. When you look back to over 90 years ago, this film had quite the issue during the production, which makes for a great story. The sets at the Universal back lots too up nineteen acres of space and filming took six months to complete. If you are fan of this film, this is a most own.

Official Premise: Gothic drama in which the hideously deformed bell-ringer Quasimodo (Lon Chaney) lives in the bell-towers of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. He strikes out viciously at the city folk after their constant taunting, but is saved from their wrath by a beautiful gypsy girl, Esmeralda (Patsy Ruth Miller). When she is accused of stabbing her lover, Quasimodo spirits her away into the bell-tower, but their friendship ends in tragedy.

Now the rest why I love Flicker Alley’s releases is because they really put a lot of work into their releases. This Blu-ray is mastered from a multi-tinted 16mm print struck in 1926 from the original camera negative. In case you are wondering why that is because the original 35mm print did not survive over the years. Since this film is over 90 years old, there is some visible wear in the source material but it was cleaned up as good as it could due to digital restoration. Flicker Alley is claiming that this is the best representation of the film currently available and I definitely agree. Top it off with an amazing new symphonic score arranged by Donald Hunsberger was recorded in the Czech Republic by a full orchestra conducted by Robert Israel and we have a winner.

If you think since they spent all that time on the Blu-ray restoration that there wasn’t going to be any bonus materials you would be wrong. There is an essay and optional audio commentary by Chaney scholar Michael F. Blake. There is rare footage (show in 480i) of Chaney out of makeup on the Cathedral set. “Alas and Alack” is included, which is a 1915 short film in which Chaney plays a hunchback. There are over 100 original production and publicity stills in the Dynamic HD photo gallery. Lastly we get a very high quality digital reproduction of the original souvenir program.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1923, bluray, dame, hunchback, notre, review, ...

Blu-ray Review “47 Ronin”

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Rinko Kikuchi, Ko Shibasaki, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Tadanobu Asano
Director: Carl Rinsch
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 119 minutes

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

I have been following “47 Ronin” and really looking forward to “47 Ronin”. I am a big fan of Keanu Reeves and I thought that him in a $170 million martial arts film would be epic. After watching it finally though, I was left a little disappointing and kind of bored like most people that saw it.  I personally have no idea how they spent that much money because I have seen films like “Young Detective Dee: Rise of the Sea Dragon”, which looks much better and was make for $25 million. I know the film has production problems and reshoot after reshoot but it didn’t really help make the film more interesting. I would recommend watching this once if you are a fan of the genre and its stars.

Official Premise: After a treacherous warlord (Asano) kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and reclaim their honor. Battling across a savage world of mythical beasts, shape-shifting witches and wondrous terrors, the ronin must seek help from Kai (Reeves), an enslaved half-breed they once rejected, in their ultimate fight for redemption.

Keanu Reeves is front and center among an otherwise all international cast that includes Hiroyuki Sanada (TV’s “Revenge”, “The Last Samurai”). Tadanobu Asano (“The Wolverine”, “Thor: The Dark World”) as Lord Kira. Rinko Kikuchi (“Pacific Rim”) is amazing as the Witch, Ko Shibasaki (“One Missed Call”). The acting is great but the roles are rather one dimensional. Despite the film itself, I thought that Reeves was able to hold his own amongst the rest of the cast and give a good performance as well.

Universal Studios delivered this film as a combo pack with Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital UltraViolet copy.  The film was post converted into 3D (which I haven’t heard great things about anyway) but we had a chance to review this in standard Blu-ray. The 1080p was impressive. The visual effects played out very nicely and very detailed, especially the creatures. The costumes, the locations, the sets are all very colorful and vibrant. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 was pretty powerful and packed a nice punch. Ilan Eshkeri’s score was also a highlight for me.

In terms of special features, they are not too shabby either. “Keanu & Kai” features the star talksing about his roe. “Steel Fury: The Fights of 47 Ronin” looks into the choreography and action sequences. “Myths, Magic & Monsters: The FX of 47 Ronin” dives deep into the creatures of ancient Japanese folklore used in the film. Those extras above are just available exclusively on Blu-ray for a limited time only. The rest of the extras are available on both the Blu-ray and DVD discs. “Re-Forging the Legend” tells the actual story of 47 Ronin and the road of how the filmmakers brought this film to the big screen. Lastly, there a a few deleted scenes included wrapping up the extras.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 47, bluray, review, ronin
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