DVD Review "Strange Frame"

Actors: Tim Curry, Claudia Black, Tara Strong, Ron Glass, Cree Summer
Directors: GB Hajim, Shelley Doty
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Wolfe Video
Release Date: March 19, 2013
Run Time: 98 minutes

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

What the fuck? No really. What the fuck? I must have said that at least twenty times while watching this crazy, visual trip of a film.  This bizarre sci-fi lesbian rock musical animated film is like nothing I have ever seen before. Through the rich and very colorful CG rendered animation, this film tells the story of transformative power of love between two women in a world of space pirates, indentured slaves and genetic mutations. The film feels like a really messed up dream or a hallucination. If you are tripping on acid, this might be the film to watch while you are doing so. It is not for everyday viewing but I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen and will be tuning in again for repeat viewings (and no I was not under the influence).

The voice cast for this film is unbelieveable including Tim Curry (The Rocky Horror Picture Show), Claudia Black (TV’s “Stargate SG-1,” “90210”), Ron Glass (TV’s “Firefly,” “Barney Miller”), Juliet Landau (TV’s “Green Lantern: The Animated Series”), Tara Strong (TV’s “Ultimate Spider-Man,” “My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic”), George Takei (“Star Trek” franchise), Cree Summer (TV’s “The Spectacular Spider-Man,” “A Different World”), Claudia Christian (TV’s “Babylon 5”) and Dawnn Lewis (TV’s “Futurama,” “A Different World”). There is also a voice cameos from impressive talent like Alan Tudyk (“Firefly”, “Wreck-It Ralph”) and Michael Dorn (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”).  I mean for a film that I have never heard of, they sure didn’t skimp on getting talent to be apart of this project.

Official Premise: Set at the end of the 28th century, the human race has long since abandoned a desolate earth. In order to survive, humanity has been using genetic engineering to adapt to otherworld environments, to the point where changing one’s skin color or gender has become commonplace. On the moon Ganymede, saxophonist Parker (Claudia Black) and guitarist Naia (Tara Strong) develop a close relationship. The two embark on their new relationship and form a new band — but they also must fight for their freedom from the evil Mig (Tim Curry).

The main aspect that I was very disappointed about this release is that it is only on DVD.  This film would have honestly looked and sounded 100% better on Blu-ray or even converted to 3D Blu-ray.  Now that would have been a trip. I hope that they are considering this somewhere down the line after this DVD is release because I would be very interested to see that. The special features includes two behind-the-scenes featurettes: “Claudia Black: On Strange Frame, Sex Scenes and Sci-Fi” and “In the Studio with Claudia Black, Tara Strong, Ron Glass, Cree Summer, Juliet Landau, Michael Dorn and George Takei”, as well as a deleted scene.  If you enjoyed this film then you should definitely check out these extras.

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DVD Review "Phineas & Ferb: The Perry Files – Animal Agents"

Creators: Jeff “Swampy” Marsh & Dan Povenmire
Actors: Vincent Martella, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Dan Povenmire, Ashley Tisdale, Alyson Stoner
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 168 minutes

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

I remember when I first started watching “Phineas & Ferb” and it hadn’t caught one yet with audience. But now it is just amazing how much “Phineas & Ferb” has blown up for Disney. Perry the Platypus has become a high-profile brand name and the fan-favorite of the show. One thing I noticed in these episodes is that Vincent Martella, voice of Phineas, voice is definitely changing as he sound quite different. Dan Povenmire really steals the show as usual as the voice of Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz. He is one of the best and funniest characters that Disney has ever branded. He is funny and his antics never get old. This DVD contains 12 very funny episodes dealing with Perry and the Animal Agents of the O.W.C.A. (Organization Without A Cool Acronym). If you are a fan of this show, do not miss the chance to own this fantastic release.

The episodes including are: “Journey to the Center of Candace”, “Traffic Cam Caper”, “Bowl-R-Rama Drama”, “Vanessasary Roughness”, “Isabella and the Temple of Sap”, “Cheer Up Candace”, “Robot Rodeo”, “Lotsa Latkes”, “Agent Doof”, “Where’s Perry Part 1”, “Where’s Perry Part 2” and “What’d I Miss”. They are a great collection of episodes showcasing Perry and his band of animal agents. The two part episode “Where’s Perry” could have been released as a DVD set of its own. But Disney delivered not only those too great episodes but many more greats.

Official Synopsis: Join Perry the Platypus – a.k.a. Agent P – and his fellow operatives as they team up to thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz and his dastardly “Inators.” Be they furry or feathered, scaly or slimy, these fearless agents roll over for nobody when it comes to crushing evil in the Tri-State Area and beyond. Fully loaded with over two hours of animated animal-themed adventures, including the exciting, two-part “Phineas And Ferb” cliffhanger “Where’s Perry?”, “Phineas and Ferb: Animal Agents” is a fun-filled, action-packed laughfest that will drive audiences wild!
“Phineas and Ferb: Animal Agents” includes a cool activity spy kit complete with a set of paper binoculars, trading cards and O.W.C.A. I.D. Badge.

The special features included are a collection of “Take Two with Phineas and Ferb” shorts, which features the duo with cameos from real-life celebrities. That is all the actual bonus footage but there is a bunch of extra cool stuff included. There is a foldable spy kit with binoculars included inside. But that is not all, Disney took the time to take it one step further. If you check out the cover inside art, it includes a game to use the binoculars for. This is very clever and a nice way to use an otherwise back side of the cover art. Congrats Disney delivering not only a great disc but also a nice goodies.

 

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DVD Review "Charles Band Presents: Death Comes in 3s – 9 Film Collection"

Actors: Gary Busey, Tim Thomerson, Trent Haaga, Logan Alexander, Debbie Rochon, Angeles Vargas, Jackie Beat, K-Von Moezzi, Robin Sydney, Selene Luna, Tracy Scoggins
Directors: Charles Band, Peter Manogian, Sylvia St. Croix, William Butler, Craig Ross, Tammi Sutton, John Lechago
Number of discs: 2
Rated: R / Not Rated
Studio: Echo Bridge Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 5, 2013
Run Time: 671 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I don’t know what it is about Charles Band and his crazy movies at Full Moon but they always draw me in.  I have been a fan of these films since I was tall enough (and probably too young) to see them on the video store shelves. This collection comes with nine horror films from three different franchises: Demonic Toys, The Gingerdead Man and Killjoy series. I mean how can you say no to killer toys, cookies and demon clowns? It is really a no-brainer if you are a fan of cheesy yet fun horror films.

Includes the films “Demonic Toys”, “Demonic Toys 2”, “Dollman Vs. Demonic Toys”, “The Gingerdead Man”, “Gingerdead Man 2: Passion Of The Crust”, “Gingerdead Man 3: Saturday Night Cleaver”, “Killjoy”, “Killjoy 2: Deliverance From Evil” and “Killjoy 3”. The main concern I have with this release is that it is technically not complete. “Puppet Master vs Demonic Toys” was released in 2004 and is not included here but that is most likely due to the fact that Echo Bridge does not own rights. Also missing is the new “Killjoy Goes to Hell”, which was just released late last year. Nonetheless, it still contains some very fun films and is a real great collection for any fan of Full Moon and Charles Band’s madness.

DEMONIC TOYS: A botched bust on a pair of arms dealers inadvertently leads to the awakening of a demon with the power to bring toys to life as his personal minions. DEMONIC TOYS 2: When an oddball group of characters gather to inspect an ancient puppet, strange things begin to happen. DOLLMAN VS. DEMONIC TOYS: Officer Judith Gray seeks the help of miniature-sized cop, Brick Bardo, and his equally small girlfriend, Nurse Ginger, when she runs into trouble with the evil Toys.

THE GINGERDEAD MAN: When the ashes of a deranged killer make their way into a secret gingerbread cookie mix, a mini-murderer is born. THE GINGERDEAD MAN 2: THE PASSION OF THE CRUST: The deranged cookie murderer “The Gingerdead Man” crashes a movie studio and leaves behind a trail of bloody murder and hilarious mayhem. THE GINGERDEAD MAN 3: SATURDAY NIGHT CLEAVER: The Gingerdead Man travels back in time to a 1976 roller-boogie contest where he causes more chaos than ever before.

KILLJOY: When an outcast is bullied to death, a killer clown exacts revenge in his honor. His name is Killjoy and he thinks murder is a laughing matter. KILLJOY 2: On a wilderness rehabilitation trip, a group of at-risk youth find themselves in the home of a voodoo woman where Killjoy’s spirit is summoned. KILLJOY 3: A group of unsuspecting college students accidentally open the portal to Killjoy’s demon realm and get trapped in a strange funhouse world with the killer clown and his friends.

When it comes to the “Demonic Toys” series, I have always enjoyed each film equally. They are all micro-budgeted but I love the use of the puppets throughout.  The first is the best in the series but I do have a special place for “Dollman vs. Demonic Toys”, even though it is barely an hour and focuses a lot of flashbacks.  The “Dollman” series has always been one of my favorites and it is fun to see him go against these killer toys! “The Gingerdead Man” is something that cannot enough be described to anyone without being looked at funny.  For this series, the best film is the first – did I mention that Gary Busey stars in this?  The second and third are both fun but very silly and over-the-top but don’t forget we are talking about a killer gingerbread man. Lastly, the “Killjoy” is a lot of fun.  Who isn’t afraid of clowns…even just a little.  Killjoy is a great character.  The first one is also the best but the second and third are a whole lot of fun as well.

Echo Bridge packed all nine of these films onto to two DVDs, which is quite a lot and I feel that the films themselves do suffer a bit.  “Demonic Toys 2” is a pretty rough copy of the film, probably the worst of the bunch.  It has a lot of transfer issues throughout. Though that is kind of expected these are not high-def films and where shot very low-budget. Besides the nine films, there are no other special features included on this release but that is expected with a massive 9-film collection like this.  Is it worth the price of less than $15? You bet you ass! Don’t miss this release for sure!

 

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DVD Review "Rocko's Modern Life: The Complete Series"

Actors: Tom Kenny, Carlos Alazraqui, Charles Adler
Directors: Joe Murray
Number of discs: 8
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 1200 minutes

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

I have to admit, I was a huge fan of “Rocko’s Modern Life” in the early/mid 90’s.  It went along well with Nickelodeon’s “Ren and Stimpy”, which I was also a big fan of.  It has been at least 15 years since I last saw “Rocko’s Modern Life” and it still holds up. This show has become a cult classic among fans since its original airing. There is really not many other show like this on television today, maybe besides “Adventure Time” or Regular Show”.  It is over-the-top, raunchy and very funny.  Sure maybe it is a packs a little bit of off-beat humor with some of the jokes but as an adult now, I am able to catch one to much more then when I was a kid.  Shout! Factory has been releasing the seasons individually over the years but this is the first time that the complete series is available to own on DVD.  It is well-worth the purchase if you are a fan of this show.

What more can you ask for here! This complete series comes with all four seasons of the show including 52 episodes! I am shocked to realize that there were only 52 episodes, I thought this show was on forever. This release also includes some fantastic original art by the show’s creator Joe Murray! The cover is a work of art, as is the inside insert, which is never usually given the time of day. You can tell that there was a lot of love that went into this release. Carlos Alazraqui, who was the voice of Rocko, Spunky and many more has since went on to notable roles like Deputy James Garcia in “Reno 911”. Tom Kenny who voiced Heffer Wolfe went on to voice, even to today, “Spongebob Squarepants”. The creator, Joel Murray, really has a certain vision for this show and maybe it was a little a head of its time but this show is a real hoot! Get it?! Joel also went on to work on similar looking shows with “Camp Lazlo” and “Frog in a Suit”.

This 8 disc set looks great for a show that is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The show aired from 1993-1996, so I am not sure why Shout! isn’t pushing the fact of the show’s anniversary. Either way, it has been a real pleasure revisiting this show after all these years and it does nothing short of entertaining. The episodes are presented in their original full screen presentation. I am not sure if Shout! Factory has done anything with these episodes but they look decent for a DVD release. 20 years has been kind to this show and it has never looks better. The colors are sharp and the audio track works well with the underscore and the Rocko screaming “SPUUUUUUNKY”.

This release from Shout! Factory comes with some very impressive special features specifically for this complete series. First up we have a “Wacky Kelly” Live 2012 with Joe Murray and the Cast. This extra is a riot and just shows that there are still so many fans of this great show out there still today. “Behind-The-Characters Shorts” is a fun look into the mind of our favorite characters from the show. Next up, there are some select scene commentary tracks throughout season three by the creator himself, Joe Murray. I highly recommend these! Lastly there is the original pilot version of “Trash-O-Madness” included on this release. If you are a fan of this series, you should be left very satisfied with this release. Heffer was right…it is a hoot!

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Dreamworks Animation’s Magical and Critically-acclaimed Adventure, "Rise of the Guardians, Debuts on Blu-ray™ and DVD

**FROM THE CREATORS OF HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON**

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION’S MAGICAL AND CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED ADVENTURE, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS, DEBUTS ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD 

Perfect For Easter Baskets, Gift Pack Arrives March 12th With The Heartwarming Film AND Two Hopping Toy Eggs! 

HOLLYWOOD, CA (February 13, 2013) – Praised by critics and moviegoers of all ages, DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: DWA) spectacular and heartfelt adventure RISE OF THE GUARDIANS soars onto  Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D™ and DVD on March 12, 2013.  Hailed as “brilliant” and “the best family film of the year” (Joel Amos, MovieFanatic.com) with “spellbinding power” (James Verniere,Boston Herald) and “dazzling animation” (Tom Long, Detroit News), RISE OF THE GUARDIANS received outstanding audience reactions and a coveted ‘A’ Cinemascore.  DreamWorks Animation’s newest animated adventure has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide with a fun-filled and magical story about the legendary guardians—Jack Frost, the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and Sandman—together for the first time!  When the evil Pitch threatens to take over the world, it’s up to our beloved heroes to protect the hopes and dreams of children everywhere.  Filled with non-stop action and laughs, it’s a dazzling family film that’s being hailed as “an instant classic” (Nancy Jay, Daybreak USA).

Just in time for Easter, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS will be available in a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Pack with UltraViolet™ or single-disc DVD, each of which includes two delightful hopping toy eggs inspired by the ones seen in the film (while supplies last—quantities are limited).  The combo pack and single-disc DVD also include special features that take viewers behind-the-scenes to learn more about the magic used to bring the story to life.

Featuring an all-star cast of voice talent including Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Hugh Jackman, Isla Fisher and Jude Law, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS delivers humor, adventure and exceptional entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.  The film will also be available on March 12th in a three-disc Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Pack with UltraViolet and for digital download on February 26th.

 

DreamWorks Animation’s Rise of the Guardians Blu-ray Combo Pack

The Rise of the Guardians Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Pack includes two hopping toy eggs, plus almost an hour of bonus features:

Disc 1 (Blu-ray):

Feature film in high definition

 

Blu-ray Exclusive Bonus Features:

  • Jack Frost Snowball Showdown!—Use your remote to duck and dodge snowballs!
  • Rock, Paper, Scissors with Sandy—See if you can beat the Sandman in this classic game.

 

Additional Bonus Features:

  • Behind the Magic—Explore the filmmakers’ journey to create Rise of the Guardians’ enthralling look, characters, effects and music:
    • Dreaming Up the Look
    • Naughty & Nice: Designing Memorable Characters
    • Enchanting Effects
    • Creating an Epic Score
  • The Man Behind the Guardians—Learn how DreamWorks Animation worked with author William Joyce to bring his novels to life.
  • Dreamers and Believers—A look at the cast and characters of Rise of the Guardians.
  • Sandy’s Dream Guide—The Sandman helps interpret your dreams in this interactive guide.
  • Filmmakers’ Commentary—With director Peter Ramsey and producers Christina Steinberg and Nancy Bernstein.

 

Disc 2 (DVD):

Feature film in standard definition

Bonus features:

  • Dreamers and Believers
  • Sandy’s Dream Guide
  • More Magic (DVD-ROM)—Printable egg holders, coloring sheets and more—perfect for Easter fun!
  • Filmmakers’ Commentary
  • Previews

 

DreamWorks Animation’s Rise of the Guardians  Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack

The Rise of the Guardians Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Pack includes the following:

Disc 1 (Blu-ray 3D):

Feature film in high definition and 3D

 

Disc 2 (Blu-ray):

Same as Blu-ray contents listed above

 

Disc 3 (DVD):

Same as DVD contents listed above

 

DreamWorks Animation’s Rise of the Guardians  DVD

The single-disc DVD includes two hopping toy eggs, plus the following:

Feature film in standard definition

Bonus features:

  • Dreamers and Believers
  • Sandy’s Dream Guide
  • More Magic (DVD-ROM)
  • Filmmakers’ Commentary
  • Previews

UltraViolet is a new way to collect, access and enjoy movies.  With UltraViolet, consumers can add movies to their digital collection in the cloud, and then stream or download them – reliably and securely – to a variety of devices.

About DreamWorks Animation SKG

DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series and live entertainment properties, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE® Magazine for five consecutive years. In 2013, DreamWorks Animation ranks #12 on the list.  All of DreamWorks Animation’s feature films are produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 25 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon and Puss in Boots. The Company’s theatrical releases for 2013 are The Croods on March 22, Turbo on July 19 and Mr. Peabody & Sherman on November 1.

About Paramount Home Media Distribution

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

 

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DVD Review "Jedi Junkies"

Actors: Olivia Munn, Peter Mayhew, Ray Park
Directors: Mark Edlitz
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: DOCURAMA
DVD Release Date: February 12, 2013
Run Time: 73 minutes

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

When it comes to “Star Wars”, am I a fan…OH YEAH! Am I crazy obsessed with “Star Wars” like these people in “Jedi Junkies”…OH NO! They are on a whole other level. This documentary is a showcase of some of the devoted fans of the franchise. The focus on this is really the fans.  It looks into conventions, fan films and the obsession of collecting. There are celebrity interviews Olivia Munn (“Attack of the Show”), “Phantom Menace” actor Ray Park (Darth Maul) and “Blair Witch Project” director Ed Sanchez.

“Jedi Junkies” is a one-of-a-kind feature film about the world’s most dedicated Star Wars fans. From lightsaber-wielding martial artists to a filmmaker who built the world’s only life-size Millennium Falcon, the film offers viewers a rare glimpse into extreme fans personal and professional self-expression.

The DVD comes with some decent special features. There is a commentary track from director Mark Edlitz. There are various deleted and extended scenes, these could have easily been put in the film since it was only 73 minutes to begins with. Lastly there are three featurettes including “The Stars of Star Wars”, “Build Your Own Action Figure” and lastly “The Cult of Slave Leia”.  If you are a fan of “Star Wars”, you should enjoy this documentary quite a bit and for those who aren’t it will change the way you look at the fandom that surrounds this whole world of “Star Wars”.

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DVD Review "Nobody Gets Out Alive"

Actors: Clint Howard, Brian Gallagher, Jen Dance, Shaun Paul Costello, Chelsey Garner
Directors: Jason Christopher
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 78 minutes

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

With a title like “Nobody Gets Out Alive”, how can you not be interested in this film? The film is really a low-burn horror/thriller that really tips its hat to the classic slasher films. The gore is super present and is not shy to keep the camera rolling.  Even be being desensitized, I was very shocked at how far they go.  The film also boasts an all too brief cameo from actor Clint Howard (“Austin Powers”, “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”). If you are a fans of 70/80’s horror then I would definitely recommend checking this out for sure.

Official Premise: The film charts the tragic path of Hunter Isth (Gallagher), whose life is turned upside down when his young daughter is killed by a drunk driver. In mourning, depressed and angry, Hunter disappears and is rumored to have moved away from Braiden Woods. As years go by, Hunter and his devastating story evolve into a local legend, a myth that many consider to be just that, until a group of partying teenagers accidentally find themselves trapped in a brutal fight for survival… with a legend bent on vengeance!

The special features for the DVD are not amazing but worth checking out if you liked the film, especially the audio commentary track.  There is a short and sweet behind-the-scenes “making of” featurette, as well as outtakes.  I always find it odd to include outtakes in a horror film since it kind of clashes with the mood. Honestly, I was impressed that there was at least any special features here for this low-budget horror flick.  So something is definitely better than nothing.

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DVD Review "The Factory"

Actors: John Cusack, Jennifer Carpenter, Dallas Roberts, Mae Whitman, Sonya Walger
Directors: Morgan O’Neill
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: February 19, 2013
Running Time: 104 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: None

When I think about John Cusack, I do not think about direct-to-DVD releases.  In fact it almost makes me upset since he is a really great actor and deserves better. I found out that this film had finished shooting in mid 2008 and has been stuck on a limbo shelf for the past five years.  I am not sure why since it has an impressive cast including Jennifer Carpenter from “Dexter” and Mae Whitman from TV’s “Parenthood” and “Arrested Development”. The film is a by-the-book serial killer thriller but delivers a nice surprise ending.

Official Synopsis: Present. Buffalo. The unforgiving winter. A killer roams the streets, abducting women on cold, quiet nights. All prostitutes, missing persons with no one to miss them. He leaves behind no traces, no clues; nothing. Detective Mike Fletcher (John Cusack) is the one cop on the force bent on bringing him to justice. Mike sees the tragedy in all of this: that these poor women are alone in life, and in death. They have no one to stand up for them – no one except him.

“The Factory” is directed by Morgan O’Neil, who is relatively unknown.  He has done two films “Drift” (2012) and “Solo” (2006) that no one has heard of. Thought he does a decent job here.  The film is produced by Joel Silver (“The Matrix” trilogy) and Dark Castle Entertainment. So you know that their is talent behind this. The DVD comes with no special features at all besides a an UltraViolet digital streaming copy. I understand why this film wasn’t released but if you are a fan of Cusack or Carpenter from “Dexter”, it is worth checking out.

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DVD Review "Small Apartments"

Actors: Matt Lucas, Billy Crystal, Juno Temple, James Marsden, Peter Stormare, Amanda Plummer, Dolph Lundgren, Rosie Perez, Rebel Wilson, James Caan and Johnny Knoxville
Directors: Jonas Åkerlund
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 19, 2013
Run Time: 96 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

If you are familiar with award-winning film and music video director Jonas Åkerlund known best for films like “Spun” and
Lady Gaga’’s “Paparazzi”” music video. “Small Apartments” is a real trip to say the least. Having known Jonas’ work, I had an idea what to expect but still didn’t see this film coming. When I say Matt Lucas was starring, I expected laugh out loud comedy. What we got here is more of a black comedy murder cover-up. It has its funny moments but the best part has to be this film’s collection of talent who pop in and out. Not sure if I could watch this again but one viewing was manageable.

Matt Lucas is the star of this film but it also packs some fun appearances from actors Billy Crystal (“When Harry Met Sally”), Juno Temple (“The Dark Knight Rises”), James Marsden (“X-Men: The Last Stand”), Peter Stormare (“Fargo”), Amanda Plummer (“Pulp Fiction”), Dolph Lundgren (“The Expendables”), Rosie Perez (“White Men Can’t Jump”), Rebel Wilson (“Pitch Perfect”), DJ Qualls (The New Guy”), James Caan (“The Godfather”) and Johnny Knoxville (“Jackass: The Movie”). This is a zany cast for a zany film for sure.

Official Synopsis: Trapped in a seedy LA apartment, Franklin Franklin (Matt Lucas) has a dead landlord on the kitchen floor and is surrounded by eccentric neighbors: the stoner (Johnny Knoxville) and girlfriend (Rebel Wilson), the wanna-be stripper (Juno Temple) and the artist (James Caan). To add to his chaos, a drunk investigator (Billy Crystal) is questioning him about his landlord. But none of this fazes Franklin. He dreams of Switzerland, and waits each day for an envelope from his institutionalized brother (James Marsden). Then, one day the envelope doesn’t come and Franklin becomes unhinged. Little does he know…his crazy brother has the secret that will set him free.

When it comes to special features there is nothing really going on here besides two pretty useless featurettes.  The first featurette is  “How to Build A Gravity Bong” with Johnny Knoxville.  He gives instructions on how to craft the ideal smoking device…real charming. The other feature is a short behind-the-scenes look into the production. Even though I wasn’t completely in love with this film, I would have loved to have a commentary track with the director and maybe a few of the cast members.

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DVD Review "40 West"

Actors: Jennifer Nichole Porter, Scott Winters, Brian A. White, Kathleen Kimball, Wayne Newton
Directors: Dana Packard
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Honey Tree Films
DVD Release Date: October 16, 2012
Run Time: 120 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I have to admit that I had never heard of “40 West” before it showed up at my door. I am glad that I checked this out (for the most part) since it is a well-written low-budget indie with a nice punch ending. This plays out like a slow-burn character drama/thriller, though maybe a little too slow. Running two hours, this could have been easily trimmed by 30 minutes and been much more effective. Jennifer Nichole Porter is not just the star of this film, she is also the writer and composer as well. Being a fan of music, I really enjoyed the music in the film for sure. Speaking of music, who doesn’t love Wayne Newton? His role in this film is very clever and well-executed.

“40 West” focuses on Maeve (Jennifer Nichole Porter), a blues singer, that ends up with her car breaking down and purse stolen, when she is about to take a trip. She is helped out by a stranger Elijah (Scott Winters), who looks helpful but then ends up setting her up with ex-con husband Colin (Brian A. White), who handcuffs her in a hotel room and plays catch up after being in prison for five years. The events get more complicated when Colin’s girl from the pen, Arlene (Kathleen Kimball), shows up and on top of that Arlene’s husband Bud (Wayne Newton) makes his appearance as well.

The film’s website boasts winning 17 international awards, which is very impressive for an independent film. Though I am a little confused since The New Maine Times is quoted on the box calling this “A Gripping Thriller”, while it won Best Comedy at the Mountain Film Awards. I guess the pickings were a little light for that festival, the film has a certain dark comedy aspect but really lands more in the drama/thriller genre. Nonetheless, the film does deserve any recognition it gets. So kudos to them, hopefully more to come! You can get this film from iTunes, Amazon.com, Walmart.com and of course the film’s website.

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"Alex Cross" DVD Giveaway [ENDED]

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To celebrate the DVD release of “Alex Cross”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway a copy of the film on DVD. If you would like to win this great prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite Tyler Perry film. This giveaway will be open until February 15th. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

Don’t miss Tyler Perry in a “role like we have never seen him” (BOXOFFICE) when Alex Cross arrives on Blu-ray Disc (plus Digital Copy and UV), DVD (plus Digital Copy and UV), Digital Download, Video On Demand and Pay-Per-View on February 5 from Summit Entertainment, a LIONSGATE company. The latest installment in the Alex Cross series features Tyler Perry (Tyler Perry’s Good Deeds), Matthew Fox (TV’s “Lost”), Edward Burns (Man On A Ledge), Rachel Nichols (Conan the Barbarian) and Jean Reno (The Da Vinci Code).

Based on the novel “Cross” by James Patterson and popularized by Morgan Freeman in Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider, Tyler Perry takes over as Dr. Alex Cross, a homicide detective/psychologist with the Detroit Police Department. Cross meets his match in a dangerous serial killer (Fox). The two face off in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, but when the mission gets personal, Cross is pushed to the edge of his moral and psychological limits. With a screenplay by Marc Moss and Kerry Williamson; the film is directed by Rob Cohen.

The pulse-pounding crime thriller is from the director of The Fast and the Furious and arrives on Blu-ray Disc and DVD packed with bonus materials including a director’s commentary, deleted scenes and a behind-the-scenes featurette.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Cabaret: 40th Anniversary”

Starring: Liza Minnelli, Joel Grey, Michael York, Marisa Berenson, Helmut Griem
Director: Bob Fosse
Rated: PG
Studio: Warner Brothers
Run Time: 124 minutes
Own it on Blu-Ray: February 5, 2013

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

Musical and film fans will be pleased to own Warner Brothers’ blu-ray release of Bob Fosse’s 1972 classic, Cabaret.

Official Synopsis: Flamboyant and eccentric American entertainer Sally Bowles (Minnelli) sings in Berlin’s decadent Kit Kat Club, even as Nazism rises in Germany in 1931. She falls in love with a British language teacher (York) – whom she shares with a homosexual German baron (Griem). But Sally’s insular, carefree, tolerant and fragile cabaret world is about to be crushed under the boot of the Nazis as Berlin becomes a trap from which Sally’s German friends will not escape.

Even forty years later and amidst modern movie musicals such as Les Mis and Chicago, Cabaret still maintains its edge. It’s perhaps because of Joel Grey’s disturbingly impish Master of Ceremonies that we never quite get to know while his Kit Kat Klub performances are all too aware of, if not concerned by, the dark times brewing outside. It was not for nothing that one of this film’s eight Oscar wins was for David Bretherton’s film editing, which among other structural coups features Grey doing a gleeful German slap dance as we watch a man beaten by Nazis.

Bridging the gap between the club and the outside world at the center of the film is Liza Minnelli’s brash American entertainer Sally Bowles. Bowles may seem at first to be the manic-pixie-dreamgirl to York’s straight-laced Brian Roberts but she’s much more than that. On top of the powerhouse performances Minnelli gives to such classics as “Maybe this Time” and “Mein Heir”, she is by turns hilarious and heartbreaking as Sally’s eccentricities expose a loneliness and desperation for attention that she may finally get from York’s charming Brian.

Some of the major themes explored in the film such as homosexuality and abortion, though far more taboo at the time of the film’s release, still hit home today. Cabaret sharpened the edge on movie musicals in a way you’d be challenged to find in the big bright musicals of the sixties. That impact is more thoroughly discussed on this set’s new featurette “Cabaret: The Musical That Changed Musicals” which features the film’s stars as well as additional commentators. Most notably director Rob Marshall, whose Chicago was the most direct benefactor from the structure set in place by Cabaret.

As for the Blu-Ray remastering, which apparently involved the manual removal of a thousand foot scratch on the film’s original print, the film looks stunning. The effects of the remastering, the first done to the film in over twenty years, are most evident when you compare the feature presentation to the clips of the film utilized in previously produced (1997) featurettes “Cabaret: A Legend in the Making” and “The Recreation of an Era” which are also included here. Additional features included many of the cast sharing fond memories from making the film and are welcome additions if perhaps not new to any die-hard fans out there.

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"Femme Fatales: The Complete First Season" Exclusive Giveaway [ENDED]

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With the DVD release of “Femme Fatales: The Complete First Season” , Media Mikes would like to giveaway the following great prizes to our fans: An original script, signed by producer Mark A. Altman (“Castle”, “Necessary Roughness”) and some of the series stunning stars, “Femme Fatales” DVD sets, rare “Femme Fatales” Trading Cards and collectible mini-posters, courtesy of Entertainment One. If you would like to win this great prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite Femme Fatale in TV or film? This giveaway will be open until February 15th. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

Looks can kill in season one of FEMME FATALES, the hit Cinemax® anthology series about powerful, sexy and dangerous women inspired by and styled in the tradition of pulp stories, film noir and graphic novels. This January, SEASON ONE finally arrives on DVD along with over two hours of never-before-seen bonus materials, courtesy of Entertainment One.

The half-hour program from creators Mark A. Altman (“Castle”, “Necessary Roughness”) and Steve Kriozere (“NCIS”, “Castle”) features stories inspired by such noir classics as Double Indemnity and Pulp Fiction and classic thriller TV series like The Twilight Zone. In each stand-alone episode, women find extraordinary ways of coping with their problems, channeling their survival instincts and bringing out their inner guile. Every episode is introduced by a mysterious and enigmatic host Lilith, played by Tanit Phoenix (Death Race 2, Lost Boys 3), and features different casts and storylines, some of which are intertwined as part of the series overall mythology.

Episodes include “Behind Locked Doors (Part 1&2)” in which Hollywood starlet Lacey Rivers (Kit Wileese) finds herself in the big house and is forced to use her acting skills to survive; a gorgeous, hard-working nurse discovers her inner strength during a hostage situation in “Bad Medicine”; “Til’ Death Do Us Part”, finds Rachel (Jordan Madley) waking up to a dead male stripper six hours before her wedding and “Speed Date”, which crosses After Hours and La Femme Nikita in an entertaining mashup featuring Isaiah Mustafa (The Old Spice Guy, Horrible Bosses) and Reggie Hayes (TV’s “Girlfriends”). Other stars stopping in after hours include legendary Oscar-nominated director Paul Mazursky, Adam Goldberg (Saving Private Ryan, “Entourage”), Richard Kind (Argo, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”), Robert Lasardo (“Nip/Tuck,” Death Race), Charlie O’Connell (“Crossing Jordan”), Dean Haglund (“The X-Files,” “The Lone Gunmen”) and many more!

BONUS PROGRAMMING
· Audio Commentary Tracks for every episode with the Stars and Creators
· Never-Before-Seen Deleted and Alternate Scenes
· Featurette: Creating Femme Fatales
· Shooting Femme Fatales: The Making of Season One
· Making Love: Anatomy of a Sex Scene
· San Diego Comic Con 2011 Panel
· “The White Flower” B&W Director’s Cut w/ audio commentary
· Blooper Reel
· Isolated Music Tracks
· Photo Gallery & More…

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DVD Review "Chicken With Plums"

Actors: Mathieu Amalric, Golshifteh Farahani, Jamel Debbouze, Serge Avedikian and Isabella Rossellini
Directors: Marjane Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: February 26, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

What is “Chicken With Plums”? It is the latest film from Marjane Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud, the Academy Award-nominated filmmakers of “Persepolis”. Like “Persepolis”, this is also an adaptation of a graphic novel by Satrapi.  It is a fun and whimsical film which combines live-action sequences with a blend of genre (expressionism, fantasy, melodrama) with an animated sequence of the classic tale ““Appointment in Samarra”. ”It is one of those films that I just have to say you need to see it.  It is hard to really give it justice otherwise. If you were a fan of the fantastic “Persepolis” or others like “Amelie” then I would recommend checking this out.

Official Synopsis: Tehran, 1958. Since his beloved violin was broken, Nasser Ali Khan, one of the most renowned musicians of his day, has lost all taste for life. Finding no instrument worthy of replacing it, he decides to confine himself to bed to await death. As he hopes for its arrival, he plunges into deep reveries, with dreams as melancholic as they are joyous, taking him back to his youth and even to a conversation with Azrael, the Angel of Death, who reveals the future of his children. As pieces of the puzzle gradually fit together, the poignant secret of his life comes to light: a wonderful story of love, which inspired his genius and his music.

The DVD presents the film with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1. There is only a French (PAR) audio track, boasting a nice 5.1 Dolby Digital. So get ready to reach those English subtitles. The special features are a little light on this film. There is an commentary with with the Directors Marjane Satrapi & Vincent Paronnaud, it is worth checking out if you enjoyed the film. Then there is a Q&A from 2012’s Tribeca Film Festival again with the directors Marjane Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud”. I was hoping for a featurette on the visual effect aspect of the film, especially the unique animated sequence. Also this would have look much better on a Blu-ray presentation.  I am not sure why Sony decided to only go the DVD route.

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DVD Review "New Fist of the North Star: Complete Collection"

Actors: Takehito Koyasu, Gackt, Unshou Ishizuka, Adam Dudley, John Paul Shephard
Director: Takashi Watanabe
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Rating: TV: MA
Running Time: 175 min.
Release Date: February 12, 2013

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are a fan of Kenshiro and the “Fist of the North Star” franchise, then you know that this release is nothing new and has been released before. But since it has been long out-of-print, Section23 has given life to this OVA yet again. This is the complete OVA collection and contains all three episodes; “The Cursed City”, “The Forbidden Fist” and “When a Man Carries Sorrow”. I really enjoyed this series and it has been a while since I last saw them but they have held up well. It is crazy to believe that it has been almost 10 years since these were first released. Wow, time sure does fly. I still wish that this series will be rebooted or continued in the future cause Kenshiro is such an awesome character and he needs to continue kicking ass (and blowing people’s heads up).

Official Synopsis: A twist on the classic favorite that begins in the aftermath of the great apocalypse. Across a barren Earth, chaos is the rule and order, the exception with bandits and enterprising overlords terrorizing the survivors of the holocaust. Will a hero rise from the ashes and cut a swath of justice across the Earth’s ruined landscape?!

I was just thinking that since this was previously released on DVD, I would have loved to seen it cleaned up and coverted to Blu-ray format. That would have been ideal for this release. The DVD contains two audio tracks both English & Japanese with English Subtitles. So you have the option to watch whichever you want but of course we know that the Japanese track is the way to go. Lastly, There are no additional special features available on this release. This release is also timed perfectly with the new release of Tecmo Koei’s “Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage 2” available on XBOX 360 on February 5, 2012.

 

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