Blu-ray Review “Lilo & Stitch: 2-Movie Collection”

Actors: Chris Sanders, Daveigh Chase, Tia Carrere, Ving Rhames, David Ogden-Stiers
Directors: Chris Sanders, Dean Deblois
Number of discs: 3
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Disney
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Run Time: 153 minutes

“Lilo & Stitch”: 5 out of 5 stars
“Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch”: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

Last year Disney started flooding the market with their less than par animated films on Blu-ray in these 2 Movie Collection sets. A few of them that we got “The Rescuers”/”The Rescuers Down Under”, “Pocahontas”/Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” and “Mulan”/”Mulan II”. This month we are getting a few more to add to our collections including “Atlantis: The Lost Empire”/”Atlantis 2: Milo’s Return”, “The Emperor’s New Groove”/”Kronk’s New Groove” and this release “Lilo & Stitch”/”Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch”. I was never a huge fan of “Atlantis” but “The Emperor’s New Groove” is a great and very underrated film and “Lilo & Stitch” is a no brainer bonafide Disney classic. Thanks to “Lilo & Stitch”, I am proud to call my wife and daughter, my “ahona” every day. The sequel is not too bad either, not amazing but not as terrible as some Disney direct-to-video.  I can’t wait to sit down and introduce my daughter to “Lilo & Stitch”.

Official Premise: “Lilo and Stitch” is the story of Lilo, a lonely little girl, and Stitch the mischievous little creature from outer space. When Stitch crash-lands in Hawaii, Lilo adopts him as her pet, but he soon turns her world upside down. Stitch takes Hawaii by storm, wreaking havoc and hanging ten while he evades the alien bounty hunters who are after him, and also learning about loyalty and friendship. Featuring six original Elvis Presley songs, “Lilo and Stitch” is fun for the entire family. The laughter continues in the hysterical sequel “Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch.” As Stitch settles into life with his human family it appears his molecular makeup is out of whack and his friendship with Lilo is threatened as a result. Lilo and her friends must find a way to restore his “goodness” level before he ruins everything, including Lilo’s big hula competition – the same competition her mother won years before.

The 2-Movie Collection release of “Lilo & Stitch”/”Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch” is a 3-disc set. Which includes both films on one Blu-ray with each film also included on their own DVD. In terms of Blu-ray presentation, the 1080p transfers both looks stunning! The colors are vibrant and very crisp. “Lilo & Stitch” looks better obviously due to production quality of the film. But “Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch” also is quite sharp, especially since it is direct-to-video. Both films come stocked with a standard, yet impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio tracks. “Lilo & Stitch” packs some amazing music including Elvis Presley and sounds amazing. “Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch” doesn’t have the flair of the first film but also sounds very impressive for a direct-to-video entry.

Now we get to the special features, which is a real disappointment just like the “Lilo & Stitch”/”Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch” release. We get ZERO special features included on the Blu-ray, only on the bonus DVD copies. This is a real disappointment, especially with the first film’s audio commentary, which now can only be listened if you are watching the DVD of the film. I would have loved to had the opportunity to watch it with the Blu-ray. Same thing goes for the recently released “The Emperor’s New Groove”/”Kronk’s New Groove” double feature Blu-ray as well. Disney if you are reading this please cut it out with the double feature Blu-ray. This issue is the result of that.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 2movie, bluray, collection, lilo, review, stitch, ...

DVD Review “Popeye The Sailor: The 1960s Classics – Volume 1”

Voices: Jack Mercer, Mae Questel, Jackson Beck
Studio: Warner Archive
DVD Release Date: May 7, 2013
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Run Time: 409 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love Popeye The Sailor? If you are a parent, you should take advantage of his lessons to eat your spinach. When I was a kid, I remember my parents used to always say eat your spinach so you can be strong like Popeye. These shorts are really classics. They are also fun to watch when I was a kid and nothing has changed as an adult. I look forward to sharing these with my daughter as well. This release is volume 1 of the classics Popeye cartoons from Paramount, adding up to 72-episodes. If you are a Popeye fan, this is a great release from Warner Archive. The episodes look great and are well represented here. Sign me up for volume 2…and keep them coming Warner Archive!

With TV reruns of the Fleischer/Famous Studios theatrical shorts proving that Popeye still packed a spinach-powered punch that delivered smash ratings, King Features commissioned a new series of Sailor Man shorts under the aegis of executive producer Al Brodax. The TV incarnation of Popeye made up for its scaled back animation with a broadened narrative scope while still staying true to the source. Thanks to the continued use of voice actors Jack Mercer (Popeye), Mae Questel (Olive) and Jackson Beck (Bluto who was now called Brutus) as well as the use of veteran Popeye animation talents who were then working at Paramount Cartoon Studios, these shorts remained authentic. The addition of a number of Thimble Theater comic strip characters making their cartoon debuts – including King Blozo, Toar, and Sea Hag – only added to the shorts “yam what I yam” charm.

Disc 1 consists of the following episodes ranging from 1960-1961: 1. Hits And Missiles, 2. The Ghost Host, 3. Strikes,Spares An’ Spinach, 4. Jeep Is Jeep, 5. The Spinach Scholar, 6. Psychiatricks, 7. Rags To Riches To Rags, 8. Hair Cut-ups, 9. Poppa Popeye, 10. Quick Change Olie, 11.Valley of The Goons, 12. Me Quest For Poopdeck Pappy, 13. Moby Hick, 14. Mirror Magic, 15. It Only Hurts When They Laughs, 16. Wimpy The Moocher, 17. Voo-Doo To You Too, 18. Popeye Goes Sale-ing, 19. Popeye’s Travels, 20. Incident At Missile City, 21. Dog Catcher Popeye, 22. What’s News, 23. Spinach Greetings, 24. The Baby Contest, 25. Oil’s Well That Ends Well, 26. Motor Knocks, 27.Amusement Park, 28. Duel To The Finish, 29. Gem Jam, 30. The Bathing Beasts, 31. The Rain Breaker, 32. Messin’ Up The Mississippi, 33. Love Birds, 34. Sea Serpent, 35. Boardering On Trouble and 36. Aladdin’s Lamp

Disc 2 continue with shorts from 1961. 37. Butler Up, 38. The Leprechaun, 39. County Fair, 40. Hamburgers Aweigh, 41. Popeye’s Double Trouble, 42. Kiddie Kapers, 43. The Mark of Zero, 44. Myskery Melody, 45. Scairdy Cat, 46. Operation Ice-Tickle, 47. The Cure, 48. William Won’t Tell, 49. Pop Goes The Whistle, 50. Autographically Yours, 51. A Poil For Olive Oyl, 52. My Fair Olive, 53. Giddy Gold, 54. Strange Things Are Happening, 55. The Medicine Man, 56. A Mite of Trouble, 57. Who’s Kiddin’ Zoo, 58. Robot Popeye, 59. Sneaking Peeking and 60. Seer-Ring Is Believer-Ring.

Lastly Disc 3 completed the volume with more episodes but jumps from 1961 back to 1960 for some reason. 61.The Wiffle Bird’s Revenge, 62. Going…Boing…Gone, 63. Popeye Thumb, 64. Where There’s A Will, 65. Take It Easel, 66. I Bin Sculped, 67. Fleas A Crowd, 68. Popeye’s Junior Headache, 69. The Big Sneeze, 70. The Last Resort, 71. Jeopardy Sheriff and 72.Baby Phase.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1, 1960s, animated, classics, collection, dvd, ...

Blu-ray Review “Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Contemporary (Mean Streets / The Untouchables / Goodfellas / Heat / The Departed)”

Starring: Robert De Niro, Kevin Corrigan, Paul Herman, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kevin Costner, Al Pacino
Directors: Martin Scorsese, Michael Mann, Brian De Palma
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: May 21, 2013
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Running Time: 697 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love a good kick-ass gangster film? “Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Contemporary” includes a collection of gangster films from the early 1970’s through 2000’s including “Mean Streets (1973)”, “The Untouchables (1987)”, “Goodfellas (1990)”, “Heat (1995)”, “The Departed (2006)”. In the last couple of decades they are definitely some of the best. I am also a big fan of films like “Casino”, which was not included. I thought that “Heat” was good but a little overrated, but maybe that is from my dislike of Michael Mann. “Goodfellas” is one of my all-time favorites. This release is great if you do not own these films prior since there is nothing new here in terms of content besides a 32-page book featuring images and facts about each film.

These five films all comes with impressive 1080p transfers. Since “The Departed” is the most recent, it also looks and sounds the best with its PCM 5.1 audio track. “Mean Streets” comes with a DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track, which is great, while “Goodfellas” comes with a Dolby Digital 5.1 track which is the worst of the bunch. They both come with an aspect ratio of 1.85:1. “The Untouchables” has a kicking DTS Digital Surround 6.1 track, as well as a Dolby Digital 5.1 EX track. “Heat” comes with a nice Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track and also a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. So these films range all over the place. All deliver for each film though, nothing terrible.

“The Untouchables” Official Premise: The critics and public agree. Brian De Palma’s The Untouchables is a must-see masterpiece – glorious, fierce, larger-than-life depiction of the mob warlord who ruled Prohibition-era Chicago… and the law enforcer who vowed to bring him down. This classic confrontation between good and evil and stars Kevin Costner as federal agent Eliot Ness, Robert De Niro as gangland kingpin Al Capone and Sean Connery as Malone, the cop who teaches Ness how to beat the mob: shoot fast and shoot first.

“Mean Streets” Official Premise: The future is set for Tony and Michael, owning a neighborhood bar and making deals in the mean streets of New York city’s Little Italy. For Charlie, the future is less clearly defined. A small-time hood, he works for his uncle making collections and reclaiming bad debts. He’s probably too nice to succeed. In love with a woman his uncle disapproves of (because of her epilepsy) and a friend of her cousin, Johnny Boy, a near psychotic whose trouble-making threatens them all, he can’t reconcile opposing values. A failed attempt to escape (to Brooklyn) moves them all a step closer to a bitter, almost preordained future.

“Goodfellas” Official Premise: Henry Hill is a small time gangster, who takes part in a robbery with Jimmy Conway and Tommy De Vito, two other gangsters who have set their sights a bit higher. His two partners kill off everyone else involved in the robbery, and slowly start to climb up through the hierarchy of the Mob. Henry, however, is badly affected by his partners success, but will he stoop low enough to bring about the downfall of Jimmy and Tommy?

“Heat” Official Premise: Neil McCauley is a thief — an expert thief. His philosophy in life – become attached to nothing in life that you can’t walk away from in 30 seconds if you spot the “Heat” around the corner. His crew of criminals is a high-tech outfit pulling off professional jobs that impress even the likes of Detective Vincent Hanna. But Hanna, a man driven through life only by his work, becomes obsessed, at the expense of his private life, with bringing McCauley down. As McCauley’s crew prepare for the score of a lifetime, and Hanna’s team tries to bring him in, the two find that they are challenged by the greatest minds on the opposite side of the law that either one has ever encountered.

“The Departed” Official Premise: Two just-graduated officers from Massachusetts State Police Academy follow opposite sides of the law: Billy Costigan is assigned to work undercover with the Irish mobster Frank Costello to get evidences to arrest him. His true identity is only known by his superiors Dignam and Oliver Queenan. The protégée of Costello, Colin Sullivan, is promoted in the Massachusetts State Police and is the informer of Costello. Each police officer gives his best effort trying to disclose the identity of the other “rat”.

The special features are not as impressive as the “Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Classics” release since these films have been released on Blu-ray prior and are missing quite a bit of there previously released extras. “Mean Streets” comes with a vintage featurette “Back on the Block”. “The Untouchables” comes with an extra called “The Script, The Cast”. “Goodfellas” comes with two commentary tracks with cast and crew and a featurette “Cop and Crook”. “Heat” comes with eleven additional scenes. Lastly “The Departed” also comes with nine additional scenes with intros by director Marty Scorsese.

The “Ultimate Gangster Collection: Classics” and “Ultimate Gangster Collection: Contemporary” are available on Blu-ray 5/21

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, collection, contemporary, departed, gangsters, goodfellas, ...

Blu-ray Review “Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Classics (Little Caesar / The Public Enemy / The Petrified Forest / White Heat)”

Starring: James Cagney, Leslie Howard, Edward G. Robinson, Bette Davis, Virginia Mayo, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.
Directors: Archie Mayo, William A. Wellman, Mervyn LeRoy, Raoul Walsh
Distributed by: Warner Bros
Release Date: May 21, 2013
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 357 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of stars

Who can help but not love the classic B&W gangster films. The following films make up this “Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Classics” – “Little Caesar (1931)”, “The Public Enemy (1931)”, “The Petrified Forest (1936)”, “White Heat (1949)”.  These are all great films that I have seen many times and never grow tired watching.  Whenever I think “The Public Enemy”, I am transported to the Disney’s Hollywood Studios on The Great Movie Ride, one of my favorites.  These films are what made gangster films popular and paved the way for today’s films. If you are a looking for a great place to be transported to the origin of the gangster film then look no further than this Blu-ray release.

All of these films are appearing on Blu-ray for the first time ever, as part of Warner Bros. 90th Anniversary celebration.  Each of these films will also be available on May 21st individually on Blu-ray. But this box set collection is quite a think a beauty.  All the film comes in a nice slipcase and includes an additional 32-page book with images and facts about each of the film. The 1080p transfers are very impressive for these classic films the latest dating back to almost 80 years ago. They are all presented with an aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio tracks included are also DTS-HD Master Audio Mono for each film, which work very well. The dialogues are clear and just are held up so well.

“Little Caesar (1931)” Official Premise: The ambitious criminal Rico moves from the country to the big city in the east and joins Sam Vettori’s gang with his friend Joe Massara. Sooner he becomes the leader of the gangsters and known as Little Caesar, and gets closer to the great mobster Pete Montana. In a robbery of a night-club, he kills the Crime Commissioner Alvin McClure and his pal Joe witnesses the murder. When Rico orders Joe to leave his mistress Olga Strassoff, she takes a serious decision.

“The Public Enemy (1931)” Official Premise: Tom Powers and Matt Doyle are best friends and fellow gangsters, their lives frowned upon by Tom’s straight laced brother, Mike, and Matt’s straight laced sister, Molly. From their teen-aged years into young adulthood, Tom and Matt have an increasingly lucrative life, bootlegging during the Prohibition era. But Tom in particular becomes more and more brazen in what he is willing to do, and becomes more obstinate and violent against those who either disagree with him or cross him. When one of their colleagues dies in a freak accident, a rival bootlegging faction senses weakness among Tom and Matt’s gang, which is led by Paddy Ryan. A gang war ensues, resulting in Paddy suggesting that Tom and Matt lay low. But because of Tom’s basic nature, he decides instead to take matters into his own hands.

“The Petrified Forest (1936)” Official Premise: Gabby lives and works at her dads small diner out in the desert. She can’t stand it and wants to go and live with her mother in France. Along comes Alan, a broke man with no will to live, who is traveling to see the pacific, and maybe to drown in it. Meanwhile Duke Mantee a notorious killer and his gang is heading towards the diner where Mantee plan on meeting up with his girl.

“White Heat (1949)” Official Premise: Cody Jarrett is the sadistic leader of a ruthless gang of thieves. Afflicted by terrible headaches and fiercely devoted to his ‘Ma,’ Cody is a volatile, violent, and eccentric leader. Cody’s top henchman wants to lead the gang and attempts to have an ‘accident’ happen to Cody, while he is running the gang from in jail. But Cody is saved by an undercover cop, who thereby befriends him and infiltrates the gang. Finally, the stage is set for Cody’s ultimate betrayal and downfall, during a big heist at a chemical plant.

These “Classics” each come with their own set of extras.  “Little Caesar (1931)” comes with a commentary by film historian Robert Sklar. Leonard Maltin Hosts Warner Night at the Movies 1931 with Newsreel, Spencer Tracy Short The Hard Guy, Cartoon Lady Play Your Mandolin and Theatrical Trailers. There is also a featurette “Little Caesar: End of Rico, Beginning of the Antihero” included. “The Public Enemy (1931)” includes a commentary by film historian Richard B. Jewell. Leonard Maltin Hosts Warner Night at the Movies 1931 with Newsreel, Comedy Short The Eyes Have It, Cartoon Smile, Darn Ya, Smile! and Theatrical Trailers.  There is also a featurette “Beer and Blood: Enemies of the Public” included.

“The Petrified Forest (1936)” includes a commentary by Bogart biographer Eric Lax. Leonard Maltin Hosts Warner Night at the Movies 1936 with Newsreel, Musical Short Rhythmitis, Cartoon The Coo Coo Nut Grove and Theatrical Trailers. There is also a featurette “The Petrified Forest: Menace in the Desert” included and an Audio-Only Bonus: 1/7/1940 Gulf Screen Theater Broadcast. Lastly “White Heat (1949)” includes a commentary by Film Historian Drew Casper. Leonard Maltin Hosts Warner Night at the Movies 1949 with Newsreel, Comedy Short So You Think You’re Not Guilty, Cartoon Homeless Hare and Theatrical Trailers.  There is also a featurette “White Heat: Top of the World” included.

If all that is not enough there is still more.  There is a bonus DVD included with yet another feature-length documentary called “The Public Enemies: The Golden Age of The Gangster Film”.  Even though this is just on DVD, it is still a must-watch if you are a fan of this genre and only makes this release worth every penny.

The “Ultimate Gangster Collection: Classics” and “Ultimate Gangster Collection: Contemporary” are available on Blu-ray 5/21

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, caesar, classics, collection, enemy, forest, ...

Blu-ray Review “Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood: Collection One & Two”

Actors: Maxey Whitehead, Vic Mignogna, Christopher Sabat, Caitlin Glass
Directors: Mike McFarland
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: FUNimation
DVD Release Date: April 24, 2012 / July 17, 2012
Run Time: 825 minutes / 775 minutes

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

When “Fullmetal Alchemist” ended its original series run in 2004, I was left wanting much more. Then shortly after in 2005 “Fullmetal Alchemist- The Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa” was released and delivered a good ending to the show. But that wasn’t the last we saw of this series, in 2009 “Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood” started. This series, unlike the first anime which had an original story, follows the story of the manga series. So it is not a sequel or prequel. It is a new series. FUNimation is behind this release and is bringing this fantastic series to Blu-ray in two collections. “Collection One” contains episodes 1-33 and “Collection Two” finishes out the series with episodes 34-64. If you are a fan of “Fullmetal Alchemist” this is a fantastic series that even rivals the original…there I said it. I love originals series but if you read the animes, it is even cooler to see the stories come to life.

Collection One Official Premise: Edward and Alphonse Elric’s reckless disregard for alchemy’s fundamental laws ripped half of Ed’s limbs from his body and left Al’s soul clinging to a cold suit of armor. To restore what was lost, the brothers scour a war-torn land for the Philosopher’s Stone, a fabled relic which grants the ability to perform alchemy in impossible ways. The Elrics are not alone in their search; the corrupt State Military is also eager to harness the artifact’s power. So too are the strange Homunculi and their shadowy creator. The mythical gem lures exotic alchemists from distant kingdoms, scarring some deeply enough to inspire murder. As the Elrics find their course altered by these enemies and allies, their purpose remains unchanged – and their bond unbreakable.

Collection Two Official Premise: In the shadows beneath Central, the Elrics encounter Father, the creator of the Homunculi. His face is familiar – as is the new face of Greed – but his alchemy is unlike anything the brothers have ever seen. As Father’s dark plot takes shape, Ed and Al brave the frigid north to meet the top officer of the fortress Briggs: General Olivier Armstrong. With icy nerve and burning intensity, she commands the hardest soldiers in the land. When you witness her leading the warriors of Briggs in battle against the unstoppable, rampaging Sloth, you’ll know – the stakes are higher than ever

Collection One includes: 1. Fullmetal Alchemist, 2. The First Day, 3. City of Heresy, 4. An Alchemist’s Anguish, 5. Rain of Sorrows, 6. Road of Hope, 7. Hidden Truth, 8. The Fifth Laboratory, 9. Created Feelings, 10. Separate Destinations, 11. Miracle in Rush Valley, 12. One Is All, All Is One, 13. Beasts of Dublith, 14. Those Who Lurk Underground, 15. Envoy from the East, 16. Footsteps of a Comrade-in-Arms, 17. Cold Flame, 18. The Arrogant Palm of a Small Human, 19. Death of the Undying, 20. Father Before the Grave, 21. Advance of the Fool, 22. Back in the Distance. 23. Girl on the Battlefield, 24. Inside the Belly, 25. Doorway of Darkness, 26. Reunion, 27. Interlude Party, 28. Father, 29. Struggle of the Fool, 30. The Ishvalan War of Extermination, 31. The 520 Cens Promise, 32. The Fuhrer’s Son, 33. The Northern Wall of Briggs

Collection Two includes: 34. Ice Queen, 35. The Shape of This Country, 36. Family Portrait, 37. The First Homunculus, 38. Conflict at Baschool, 39. Daydream, 40. Homunculus (The Dwarf in the Flask), 41. The Abyss, 42. Signs of a Counteroffensive, 43. Bite of the Ant, 44. Reviving at Full Throttle, 45. The Promised Day, 46. Looming Shadow, 47. Emissary of Darkness, 48. The Oath in the Tunnel, 49. Filial Affection, 50. Upheaval in Central, 51. The Immortal Legion, 52. Combined Strength, 53. Flame of Vengeance, 54. Beyond the Inferno, 55. The Adults’ Way of Life, 56. The Return of the Fuhrer, 57. Eternal Leave, 58. Sacrifices, 59. Lost Light, 60. Eye of Heaven, Gateway of Earth, 61. He Who Would Swallow God, 62. A Fierce Counterattack, 63. The Other Side of the Gateway, 64. Journey’s End

FUNimation (like usual) really gave “Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood” a wonderful presentation. The 1080p transfer for each episode is near perfect and very impressive within its 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The colors are extremely vibrant and sharp. The line detail is also notable and transfers well onto the screen in high-def. These series on both collection are presented with the show’s original Japanese language and also an English dub. The Japanese audio only includes a Dolby True HD 2.0 track, while the English dub gets a more meaty Dolby True HD 5.1 track. I am usually gung ho for the original language track but I have to go with the English track for this series. I just love the voice actors and top that with a better audio track and it easily wins me over.

The special features may not be the greatest in terms of featurettes but there is sure a nice collection of audio commentary tracks for various episodes. Collection one contains audio commentaries on episodes 1, 10, 14, 23, 28. Collection two contains audio commentaries on episodes 36, 40, 46 and 64. The commentaries are focuses on key episodes and are a must for die-hard fans! Both Collection one and two have textless opening songs – “again”, “Hologram”, “Golden Time Lover” and textless closing songs – “Let it Out”, “ISO”, “Tsimaoda Te”. Collection two includes some outtakes, which are also fun and worth checking out. Lastly wrapping up the extras are trailers included on both collections.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: alchemist, bluray, brotherhood, collection, fullmetal, review, ...

Blu-ray Review “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – OVA Collection”

Actors: Maxey Whitehead, Vic Mignogna, Christopher Sabat, Caitlin Glass, Travis Willingham
Directors: Caitlin Glass, Mike McFarland
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Run Time: 60 minutes

OVA Collection: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Since the very first episode, I have been a life long fan of the anime series “Fullmetal Alchemist”. So when I saw that there was an OVA collection available for the series, I couldn’t wait to see it. There are four short episodes included on this release are “The Blind Alchemist”, “Simple People”, “Chronicle of the Teacher”, “Yet Another Man’s Battlefield”. Being such a big fan of the show, I have to admit though I was a little disappointed in these since they are rather forgettable. But I do not think it matter much since hardcore fans of the show should be excited to get an extra content that they can.

Official Premise: Amazing secrets and startling facts are exposed for the first time in the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood OVA Collection, a new assortment of stories set in never-before-seen corners of the FMA universe. Join Ed and Al as they chase rumors of successful human transmutation into a web of shocking family drama and lies. Sneak a glance at hidden sides of Winry and Hawkeye’s personalities. Survive the frigid north with a young Izumi Curtis as she fights to gain a deeper understanding of alchemy. Explore the legendary friendship shared by Mustang and Hughes and watch them grow from military school rivals into hardened brothers transformed by the horrors of the Ishvalan War. You thought you knew the whole story. You thought all the tales were told. The Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood OVA Collection offers proof: You were wrong.

FUNimation Entertainment has delivered a wonderful release here. The OVA shorts look beautiful with their 1080p transfers and are presented in 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Like past high definition presentations in the “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” franchise, FUNimation has delivered again.  The colors are vibrant and looks very sharp.  There are two audio tracks on this release.  Believe it or not the English: Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track takes the cake on this release.  The English voice cast has become so recognizable and fan favorite for the site. The Japanese track only includes a Dolby TrueHD 2.0 audio, but hardcore fans will still enjoy.  In terms of special features we get 16 short commercials in “Fullmetal Four Panel Comic Theater”, which adds up to over 40 minutes of footage. They are specifically made for laughs and are quite funny.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: alchemist, bluray, brotherhood, collection, fullmetal, ova, ...

"The Best of Warner Bros. 20 Film Collection: Romance" DVD Giveaway [ENDED]

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

To celebrate the 90th anniversary of Warner Brothers this month and the release of the latest “The Best of Warner Bros. 20 Film Collection: Romance”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway this great box-set to one of its fans! If you would like to enter for your chance to win this great prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email with your favorite romance film. This giveaway will remain open until April 15th at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to everyone in the whole world!! 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 Best of Warner Bros. 20 Film Collections are being released throughout the year in five separate sets. Each features a gem-packed collection of 20 essential movie classics in five major genres: Best Pictures (January), Musicals (February), Romance (April), Comedy (July) and Thrillers (September). A booklet will be included in each Collection which contains photos and synopses of all the films in the set.

The Best of Warner Bros. 20 Film Collection: Romance
The collection will be divided into three chapters on 22 discs: Timeless Love (1938-1942); Unforgettable Affairs (1950-1965); and Modern Romance (1973-2008).

Films included are:
1. Jezebel (1938)
2. Gone with the Wind (1939)
3. The Philadelphia Story (1940)
4. Casablanca (1942)
5. Mrs. Miniver (1942)
6. Now, Voyager (1942)
7. Annie Get Your Gun (1950)
8. A Streetcar Named Desire: The Original Director’s Version (1951)
9. Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
10. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958)
11. Splendor in the Grass (1961)
12. Doctor Zhivago (1965)
13. A Touch of Class (1973)
14. A Star Is Born (1976)
15. The Goodbye Girl (1977)
16. The Bodyguard (1992)
17. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
18. Two Weeks Notice (2002)
19. The Lake House (2006)
20. Nights in Rodanthe (2008)

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: 20, bros, collection, dvd, film, giveaway, ...

Blu-ray Review "The Collection"

Starring: Josh Stewart, Christopher McDonald, Navi Rawat, Lee Tergesen
Director: Marcus Dunstan
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 82 minutes

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

In 2009, Marcus Dunstan co-wrote and directed a horror film called “The Collector” along with Patrick Melton.  The two of them are no stranger to horror writing (Feast” series, “Saw 4-7”). They reunited on the sequel to “The Collector” called “The Collection”.  This film is much more brutal and in your face that the first go-round. There is something called excessive gratuitous violence and this film is not afraid to go there.  Is it too much? Maybe but this film is really sticks to its guns and is pretty fearless.  “The Collection” stars Josh Stewart (“The Dark Knight Rises”), the film also stars Emma Fitzpatrick (“The Social Network”), Lee Tergesen (HBO’s “Oz”) and Christopher McDonald (HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire”).  If you like films like “Saw”, then get ready cause this film will have you rooting for more yet at the same time cringing.

Official Premise: When Elena (Fitzpatrick) is talked into attending an underground warehouse party with her friends, she finds herself caught in a nightmarish trap where the revelers are mowed, sliced and crushed to death by a macabre series of contraptions operated by a masked psychopath. When the grisly massacre is over, Elena is the only survivor. But before she can escape, she is locked in a trunk and transported to an unknown location. Fortunately for Elena, one man-Arkin (Stewart) -knows exactly where she’s headed, having just escaped from there with his life and sanity barely intact. Elena’s wealthy father hires a crack team of mercenaries to force Arkin to lead them to the killer’s lair. But even these hardened warriors are not prepared for what they encounter.

“The Collection” looks actually quite stunning on Blu-ray courtesy of Lionsgate Films. The 1080p transfer delivers with its 2.34:1 aspect ratio. If you are not a fan of blood and gore then get ready but they in your face with this high definition release. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track really working with horror action and of course Charlie Clouser score. The special features are good as well. There is an audio commentary track with Director/Writer Marcus Dunstan and Writer Patrick Melton, whom are rather engaging. There are five Featurettes included on the production including “A Director’s Vision”, “Makeup and Effects of ‘The Collection'”, “Production Design”, “Special Effects of ‘The Collection'” and “Stunts of ‘The Collection'”. Lastly there are three alternate scenes and a theatrical trailer included.

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

Blu-ray Review "InuYasha: The Movie – The Complete Collection"

Actors: Richard Ian Cox, Moneca Stori, Kirby Morrow, Kelly Sheridan, Jillian Michaels
Directors: Toshiya Shinohara
Number of discs: 2
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Viz Media
Release Date: March 26, 2013
Run Time: 380 minutes

Films: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

When I started watching “InuYasha” back in the early 2000’s, I was immediately hooked. I couldn’t get enough of the show.  I would watch episodes over and over just to get my fix while I waited for new episodes each week. These films are extremely epic and fit very well within the series. I also really enjoyed the show in the longer format. The typical 30 minute episode was great but I was always left immediately wanting to watch another episode. This is the first time that these films are available on “high-def” (more on that below) Blu-ray. If you are a fan of the show it should be a no-brainer in order to get your “InuYasha” fix.

So back to the beginning, in 2001, my prayers were answered with the first “InuYasha” movie. A movie version of my favorite anime? Count me in! The films fit right in between the series. The first movie took place between episodes 54 and 55. Luckily Sunrise was smart and replicated this success the following year in 2002 with the second film, which takes place between episodes 95 & 96. The same goes for the third film which came out in 2003 and ran between episodes 136 and 137.  The last film premiered in 2004 and premiered not too long after the last episode of the “InuYasha” aired.

InuYasha the Movie: Affections Touching Across Time: 200 years ago, InuYasha’s father sealed away a powerful demon from China named Hyoga. A Shikon Jewel shard awakens Hyoga’s son, Menomaru, inspiring him to absorb the remains of his father’s power to take control of the world. It’s up to InuYasha and his friends to stop this nearly invincible foe!

InuYasha the Movie 2: The Castle Beyond the Looking Glass: With their greatest foe seemingly defeated, Inuyasha and his friends begin to return to their lives. But their short period of peace is once again shattered as a new enemy begins to emerge. Kaguya, the self-proclaimed Princess from the Moon of legend, begins a plan to plunge the world into a perpetual night of the full moon. Inuyasha, Kagome, Miroku, Sango and Shippo must once again unite to face the new threat.

InuYasha the Movie 3: Swords of an Honorable Ruler: Many years ago, the Great Dog Demon wielded the Three Swords of the Fang. Upon his death, he bequeathed a sword to each of his sons, Inuyasha and Sesshomaru, leaving the third sword, the wrath-filled Sounga, locked away forever. Now that the Sounga’s power has been awakened, these two battling brothers must put away their sibling rivalry and face off against a force that spells doom for all mankind!

InuYasha the Movie 4: Fire on the Mystic Island: Within the dark recesses of Horai Island, a group of half-demons lives under the demonic rule of the Four War Gods. Escaping with barely a shred of hope, Ai, the youngest of the half-demons, returns to the island with Inuyasha, who must face not only the Four War Gods, but the past he left behind on the island fifty years ago.

Now onto the Blu-ray itself, Viz Media has done a wonderful job with releasing the latest series of “InuYasha: The Final Act” on Blu-ray prior to this. I was really hoping for the same thing with “InuYasha: The Movie – The Complete Collection” but was a left a bit disappointed.  The films are only presented in 1080i, which is technically high definition but it is a bit of a cop out for a Blu-ray release.  It still looks good with sharp colors and line details but you can see the difference clearly that it is not full HD.

The audio tracks are a step up from prior “InuYasha” releases.  There is both an English and Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.  This is a step up from the releases for “InuYasha: The Final Set”.  The 5.1 tracks really capture the scale of these films and work with the non-stop action.  I have to admit, I couldn’t really choose a favorite track.  The Japanese works best with since it feels the most authentic but I love the voice cast with from the English dub as well.  There are also English and Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks.

So on this release, we get four films but really no major special features. There is only one extra on this release from any of the films, which would be “Production Sketches”.  I did enjoying looking at this artwork but I would have loved to seen much more.  There is no commentary tracks or featurettes included, which is very disappointing.  I am not sure what it is about anime Blu-ray releases but they never come with any decent special features.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, collection, complete, inuyasha, movie, review, ...

Wizard Video Collection Review: "Demoniac (1975)" & "Oasis of the Zombies (1982)"

Charles Band is the man behind both Meda Home Entertainment in the late 70’s and Wizard Video in 1980. He recently cleared out his warehouse and uncovered an amazing bunch of big box Wizard Video Collection that have been stuffed away for over 30 years. Shortly after Wizard Video introduced these over-sized “big VHS box” films with titles like “Zombie”, “I Spit On Your Grave” and “Breeders”, this format was returned since retailers were running out of shelf space. The big VHS box has since become a rare collectible! Well the big box is back thanks to Charles Band and Full Moon as they have uncovered 36 features discovery in his warehouse ranging with quantities from 180 boxes to 420 boxes. If you are a fan of these format and these films this is a sale that you do not want to miss as they are mint condition.

These mint boxes include the original program newly duplicated on VHS in a black clam shell included within their original box. Each original box is numbered and signed by Charles Band himself. Over the next nine months, Charles will be releasing this collectibles for the low price of $50.00.  See below for the full schedule of release.  If you don’t think that is enough also found in the collection were original boxes of the first horror video games on the planet, from Wizard Video’s sister company, Wizard Video Games. The Atari 2600 game boxes for Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Halloween will be released TBD 2013 from Full Moon. I can’t wait to see these get a release and fingers crossed that they are going to even include the game cartridges. Fingers crossed again that I will be able to pay the mortgage still after.

I had the privilege of breaking out the old VCR and review the following big box VHS tapes from Wizard Video Collection including “Demoniac (1975)” and “Oasis of the Zombies (1982)”.  I have to tell you it felt quite good giving the VCR some love. I forgot the need for having to blow into a VCR and adjusting the tracking.  But overall it was a wonderful experience and really brought me back to the good ole VHS days.  Having grown up and worked myself in a mom and pop video story in Long Island, NY, the idea that this format still has a life always makes me smile. “Demoniac (1975)” & “Oasis of the Zombies (1982”) are two classic foreign horror films that Wizard acquired and released back in the day.  I remember seeing these boxes on my video store shelf (and not being allowed to rent). This is a feeling that I am going to miss.

“Demoniac (1975)” Official Premise: A defrocked and defamed Catholic priest (played by director Jess Franco) witnesses a series of staged Black Masses complete with phony human sacrifices that drive him insane and send him on a murderous path of redemption to cleanse the streets of the spirit of Satan. His victims, the cast and audience of the show, meet gruesome fates at the hand of the “Sword of the Lord.”

“Oasis of the Zombies (1982)” Official Premise: Robert, a student at an English university, receives word of his father’s unexpected death and returns home to Africa. While reading his father’s dairies, Robert learns of the obsession that led to his death: $6,000,000 in Nazi gold that remains buried at an oasis in the Sahara desert, protected by the restless, rotting souls who died protecting it. Using his inheritance, Robert bands together with three fellow students to wrest the unclaimed fortune from the dunes of the dead!

So the question poses itself, are these releases worth $50.00? You bet your ass they are! They are signed and are a piece of history. “Oasis of the Zombies” was just released on high-def Blu-ray last month from Kino Video. So it is very funny to have watched both of these in the span of a month.  I have to say that I really preferred the VHS copy.  The film has that grindhouse look and feel and yet it really shines on the classic video format. Since this was reproduced, the films itself both look impressive. The VHS transfers really captured the essence of the way these film are was meant to be seen. Sure it looks great on Blu-ray but who doesn’t love that gritty feel. I look forward to checking out other upcoming releases.

Website: www.Wizardvideocollection.com
For all other Full Mooninformation: www.Fullmoondirect.com
Please check out the Facebook page at: http://bit.ly/WizardVideo

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: collection, video, wizard

Blu-ray Review "Subspecies: The Blu-ray Collection Volume 1"

Starring: Anders Hove, Denise Duff, Angus Scrimm
Director: Ted Nicolaou
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Full Moon Pictures
DVD Release Date: May 21, 2013
Run Time: 270 minutes

The Blu-ray Collection Volume 1: 3.5 out of stars
Subspecies Blu-ray: 2 out of 5 stars
Subspecies Extras: 1 out of 5 stars
Bloodstone: Subspecies II Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Bloodstone: Subspecies II Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
Bloodlust: Subspecies III Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Bloodlust: Subspecies III Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

One of the best series to come out of Full Moon has easily been “Subspecies” to date. The series ran for the better part of the 90’s with three sequels and a spin-off   This volume one Blu-ray collection includes “Subspecies”, “Bloodstone: Subspecies II” and “Bloodlust: Subspecies III”. I am assuming there will be a second volume in the cards with the “Subspecies 4: Bloodstorm” and “The Vampire Journals” to work up the series (at least untill Subspecies 5, you here that Charlie!). The series creates one of our great villains, the vampire Radu Vladislas, portrayed by Anders Hove. When you think of great vampire villains, I always come back to Radu. The scripts are not perfect and the acting is decent at best but these films are classics. Full Moon is relatively new to the format of Blu-ray, with only a few “Puppet Master” films getting the treatment.  For the slim price at around the price of one standard Blu-ray, if you are a fan of the series then this is a really a steal.

“Subspecies”: Three students studying the folklore of Transylvania uncover more than they anticipated when they stumble upon a clan of vampires ruled by the monstrous Radu. The sadistic vampire becomes obsessed with making them his fledglings and pursues them relentlessly. Wielding the power of the Bloodstone, a relic that drips the blood of the saints, Radu and his subspecies – a pack of small, sinister creatures – give the girls a true understanding of the local mythology.

“Bloodstone: Subspecies II” In the second installment of the Subspecies series, Radu’s fledgling and love interest, Michelle, flees from his castle with the holy relic – the Bloodstone. Meanwhile, as a new vampire, Michelle struggles with her emerging bloodlust. To escape Radu, she hides in the basement of a theater in Bucharest, waiting for her sister to arrive from the US to help her – before it’s too late. “Bloodlust: Subspecies III” – Bloodlust brings the third coming of Radu, who captures his fledgling, Michelle, and returns her to the castle he shares with his sorceress mother. Radu teaches Michelle how to master her vampire powers. Meanwhile, Michelle’s sister, Becky, plans an armed assault on Radu’s stronghold. She is determined to save her sister’s soul – and this time she’s brought some help.

Since the Blu-ray release for “Subspecies” was for the 20th anniversary, originally released in 2011, it really doesn’t feel like it comes with the anniversary treatment. The high-def Blu-ray only clocks in at 1080i transfer and feels a little flat. This still looks much better than past DVDs but not up to standard for Blu-ray. I mean there is massive noise throughout the scenes and the colors are very shaky. I also have a real big issue with the Dolby Digital 2.0 audio track. Since suppose to be Blu-ray high-definition, the track is far from it. It sounds fine but I would have loved to seen them upgrade this film to a a 5.1 surround track for this release. In fact the Blu-ray box boasts all three films as full HD and 5.1 surround sound, which is not the case for this film.

“Bloodstone: Subspecies II” & “Bloodlust: Subspecies III” again takes the correct path for a proper Blu-ray presentation. Since this films were shot many years ago and on a very low budget, they are still represented quite well here. Both films have very nice 1080p transfers (unlike “Subspecies”).  There is some noise interference around the color black but besides that they both have pretty sharp transfers. Also both films also have good 5.1 surround tracks.  They are not perfect but they are a nice step up from “Subspecies” and at least they represent the high-definition of the Blu-ray much better.

“Subspecies” is also a big disappointment in the special features department. There is an original VideoZone episode, which I enjoyed…but that is it. There are no other extras besides some Full Moon Trailers. Luckily, the special features for “Bloodstone: Subspecies II” & “Bloodlust: Subspecies III” improves quite a bit in that area. The extras are mirrored for both films including “Making Subspecies: The Recollections of Ted Nicolaou, Anders Hove and Denise Duff” is a great revisit from the director and cast from the film. Both films include an equally entertaining audio commentary again from the trio; Nicolaou, Hove and Duff. Some topics are revisited from the making-of feature but still worth checking out. “Killer Subspecies Montage” is a fun collection of clips from this series. Lastly, there are  also original VideoZones episodes included for the sequels, as well as additional Full Moon Trailers included.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1, bluray, collection, review, subspecies, volume, ...

Disney’s "Brother Bear" 2-Movie Collection Blu-ray™ Giveaway [ENDED]

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

© 2013 Disney

New 3-Disc Blu-ray™ Combo Pack Available for the First Time in a 2-Movie Collection Debuting March 12, 2013

To celebrate the release of Disney’s “Brother Bear” 2-Movie Collection, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 5 copies of the Blu-ray™ Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray™ + 1 DVD). If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email indicating your favorite character from the film. This giveaway will remain open until March 22nd at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to residents of the United States 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.

Two warm and wonderful Disney adventures arrive together for the first time ever in a Blu-ray™ Combo Pack! Families can share the heartwarming and hilarious tale of “Brother Bear” — the 2003 Academy Award® nominee for Best Animated Feature—and “Brother Bear 2” in one incredible 2-Movie Collection. Bring home an entire forest full of fun, complete with digitally restored high definition picture and sound.

After an impulsive boy named Kenai is magically transformed into a bear, he and his little brother bear, Koda, take a courageous (and often hilarious) journey to see the Northern Lights. Experience the excitement of these two fantastic films like never before on Disney Blu-ray™ March 12!

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: 2, bear, bluray, brother, collection, disneys, ...

Disney's "Mulan" 2-Movie Collection Blu-ray™ Giveaway [ENDED]

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

© 2013 Disney

New 3-Disc Blu-ray™ Combo Pack Available for the First Time 15th Anniversary Edition Debuts March 12, 2013

To celebrate the release of Disney’s “Mulan” 2-Movie Collection, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 5 copies of the Blu-ray™ Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray™ + 1 DVD). If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email indicating your favorite character from the film. This giveaway will remain open until March 22nd at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to residents of the United States 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.

Celebrate the 15th anniversary of Disney’s critically-acclaimed masterpiece “Mulan” with this sensational 2-Movie Collection – presented for the first time in Blu-ray™ High Definition. Mulan’s triumphant tale of honor, courage and family pride shines brighter than ever with new digitally mastered picture and sound! Disney’s original animated classic magically transforms an ancient Chinese legend into a spectacular motion picture event.

Relive all the wonder and excitement as Disney’s most courageous princess breaks tradition by joining the Imperial Army accompanied by her hilarious guardian dragon, Mushu. The adventure continues in Mulan 2, as newly engaged Mulan and Shang journey to a distant city in a valiant quest to save their beloved empire. Families will adore these two extraordinary films on Disney Blu-ray™.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: 2, bluray, collection, disneys, giveaway, movie, ...

Disney's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" 2-Movie Collection Blu-ray™ Giveaway [ENDED]

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

© 2013 Disney

New 3-Disc Blu-ray™ Combo Pack Available for the First Time in a 2-Movie Collection Debuting March 12, 2013

To celebrate the release of Disney’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” 2-Movie Collection, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 5 copies of the Blu-ray™ Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray™ + 1 DVD). If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email indicating your favorite character from the film. This giveaway will remain open until March 22nd at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to residents of the United States 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.

Rediscover the majestic musical adventure of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” and “The Hunchback of Notre Dame II,” together for the first time on Blu-ray™ in a 2-Movie Collection! Families can come together and enjoy the extraordinary tale of Quasimodo in a soaring celebration of the beauty inside all of us.

Join the world’s most unlikely hero as he meets his first real friend, Esmeralda, while fighting to save the people and city he loves. The legendary story continues as Quasi reunites with his gargoyle friends to protect the cathedral’s most famous bell and find true love. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” soars with a magnificent score by Academy Award Winning composer Alan Menken (“Beauty And The Beast,” “Aladdin”). Enjoy both magical films, bursting with brilliant animation and unforgettable characters, together on Disney Blu-ray™ March 12!

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: 2movie, bluray, collection, dame, disneys, giveaway, ...

Blu-ray Review "Brother Bear: 2 Movie Collection"

Actors: Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Suarez, Jason Raize, Rick Moranis, Dave Thomas
Directors: Aaron Blaise, Robert Walker
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: March 12, 2013
Run Time: 85 minutes

Brother Bear: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Brother Bear II: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

When I first saw “Brother Bear” in the theaters, I first thought that Disney was slipping quite a bit with their animated films but since it has grown on it. “Brother Bear” is not a perfect film and in fact is one of the last classically animated film from Disney. The film delivered a great message and has quite a bit of heart. The animation still holds up, especially on Blu-ray. The voice cast includes an interesting choice of Joaquin Phoenix and Rick Mornais, in one of his last film roles. So since this film is a two movie collection, we also have the direct-to-video sequel “Brother Bear 2” included. This film screams direct-to-video and really should be considered as a bonus feature here for this release. “Brother Bear” is a the real draw here though and worth the purchase or upgrade alone.

Official Premise: Disney proudly presents two heartwarming and hilarious movies in one incredible collection – Brother Bear, the 2003 Academy Award nominee for best animated feature, and Brother Bear 2 – together for the first time on Blu-ray. Bring home an entire forest full of fun, complete with digitally restored high definition picture and sound. After an impulsive boy named Kenai is magically transformed into a bear, he and his little brother bear, Koda, take a courageous (and often hilarious) journey to see the Northern Lights. Experience the excitement of these two fantastic films like never before on Disney Blu-ray!

Even though these films aren’t Disney classics per se, they are still decent film and look amazing on Blu-ray. “Brother Bear” looks stunning with its 1080p transfer presented with its aspect ratio of 2.35:1 with black bars at the top and bottom. The colors are beautiful, sharp and really pop off the screen. Believe it or not “Brother Bear 2” is also very impressive as well. Even though it is direct-to-video quality Disney cleaned this film up for this Blu-ray quite well. Next up is the audio, “Brother Bear” delivers a great DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which works well with the action, the dialogue, the score and of course Phil Collins’ songs. Again “Brother Bear 2” also delivers with it’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. For what it is worth, the track works with what what the film has going for it.

Next up are the special features, which are just ports of previous DVD releases. They are decent but in terms of taking the extra effort, it is a letdown. “Brother Bear” starts off with an audio commentary track with the film’s characters Rutt and Tuke (voiced by Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas), the film’s Canadian Moose duo. If you are a die-hard fan, I highly recommend this as it is a riot. “Paths of Discovery: The Making of Brother Bear” is a four-part documentary focusing on the cast, story, production and score. There are three deleted scenes with an introduction from directors Aaron Blaise and Robert Walker, as well an Never-Before-Heard Song (except on the last DVD release) called “Fishing Song”. “Art Review” takes us with Art director Robh Ruppel and supervising animator Byron Howard as they discuss…art from the film.

“Bear Legends” is a very short series of Native American tales. There is the song “Transformation” with its original Phil Collins lyrics, as well as a Sing-Along Song for “On My Way” and a Music Video for “Look Through My Eyes” by Phil Collins. “Koda’s Outtakes” are in character and are quite funny, taking a page from “Toy Story”. “Making Noise: The Art of Foley” is a non-technical look at sound design for kids. Wondering about “Brother Bear 2” extras? The only extra is “Behind the Music” with Producers Jim Ballantine and Susan Kirch, director Ben Gluck and others talking about the films tunes.

“Brother Bear” is not the only animation classic being released on high-def Blu-ray. March 12th will also bring the release of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame 1 & 2″, “Mulan 1 & 2″ and “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Of course like Disney is smart to release their films like that ”Mulan”, ”Brother Bear” and “Hunchback” with their direct-to-video sequels because otherwise I do not think that anyone would be interested in owning them. So I look at these direct-to-video sequels as a bonus feature really. I am not sure how “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” fits into this trend but that is one release that I am highly anticipating.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 2, bear, bluray, brother, collection, movie, ...
« sdf
Previous
Page 5 of 9
Next
Next Page »