“Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Perry Files” DVD Giveaway [ENDED]

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Available June 5 on Disney DVD with Digital Copy and Perry Activity Pack!

To celebrate the DVD release of “Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Perry Files”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 10 copies of the DVD. If you would like to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite Phineas and Ferb character. This giveaway will be open until Friday June 22nd at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States. Only 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.

While Phineas and Ferb do it all to make every day the best day ever, evil lurks just around the corner! But there is hope for the unsuspecting citizens of Danville. Now, for the very first time, crack open the top- secret archives of O.W.C.A. (Organization Without a Cool Acronym) to expose… THE PERRY FILES!

Join Perry the Platypus–a.k.a. Agent P.–on his most exciting adventures as he thwarts his nemesis, Dr. Doofenshmirtz, at every turn. With groovy gadgets, mad skills and his trademark brown fedora, this semi- aquatic, egg-layin’ mammal of action is unstoppable! Experience the hilarious havoc as he defends the Tristate Area against Doof’s “inators,” battles rogue agent “Dennis the Bunny,” and much more. When it comes to secret agents, Perry’s not only the real deal, he’s real teal!

DVD bonus features:
– Nerves of Teal: Do you have nerves of teal? Then OWCA (Organization Without a Cool Acronym) wants you! See if you have what it takes to become like Agent P in this spy recruiting video.
– Platybus Tour: Take a look inside the Platybus, the traveling Phineas and Ferb exhibit that toured North America.

DVD Review “The Happiest Baby on the Block”

Directed by: Nina Montee
Starring: Dr. Harvey Karp
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Lionsgate Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 40 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Timed to the 10th anniversary of these NY Times best-sellers, Lionsgate is re-releasing “The Happiest Baby on the Block”. The DVD arrived for review perfect timing since my wife and I just welcomed our first child about two weeks ago. And honestly who is going to turn down a chance to have the following tagline “The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer”, that is something that new parents are going to jump all over.

This program follows, Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatrician. Some of the techniques that Dr. Karp shares with its viewers range from finding out about the calming reflex and the ability to use the 5 S’s to turn “off” crying. My main concern with the DVD is that it is rather short running only about 40 minutes but I guess there is only so much you can cover about one topic. I would like to thank Dr. Karp for sharing his secrets helping my newborn babies stay happy.

The special features are not out of this world but worth checking out for new parents. Dr. Karp Answers 25 Hot Topic Parenting Q&As, which included some interesting and informative information. Lastly there is a bonus sneak peek of “The Happiest Toddler on the Block”. If you are a new parent, I would recommend this release even though it is a bit short.

 

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DVD Review “Sealab 2020: The Complete Series”

Created by: Hanna-Barbera
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Running Time: 280 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to “Sealab 2020”, I can’t help but relate it back to the Adult Swim take-off “Sealab 2021”, which pokes fun at the series and one of my favorites TV series. “Sealab 2020” may not be one of Hanna-Barbera’s best projects but it is fun series. I mean who doesn’t like shark attacks, giant octopus and squids…this show has got it all.

Thanks to Warner Archive for finally releasing this show in its complete entirety. All 13 episodes are include in this collection. It is presented full screen with aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The show looks great on DVD as to all releases from Warner Archive. If you are a fan of this zany-yet-fun cartoon series, I would highly recommended this release.

Synopsis:
“This is the year two thousand and twenty. The place is the Challenger Sea Mount, the top of an underwater mountain, a complex beneath the sea. Two hundred and fifty men, women and children live here. Each of them, a scientist pioneer. For this is our last frontier, a hostile environment which may hold the key to tomorrow. Each day, these oceanauts meet new challenges as they build their city beneath the sea. This is Sealab 2020.”

With these words setting the stage, and some funky bass riffs setting the tone, Saturday morning TV took the 70s underwater Sci Fi adventure plunge. Ably overseen by Hanna-Barbera’s ace action animators and voiced by a superb cast (including John Stephenson, Ross Martin, Jerry Dexter and Ann Jillian), the oceanauts of Sealab face seaquakes, sharks and falling satellites while finding the time to serve up lessons on environmentalism, tolerance, and teamwork across this 2-Disc, 13-Episode Collection

DVD Review “Black Devil Doll”

Directed by: Jonathan Louis Lewis
Starring: Heather Murphy, Natasha Talonz, Christine Svendsen, Erika Branich, Precious Cox
Distributed by: CAV Distributing
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Release Date: October 27, 2009
Running Time: 72 minutes

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

Let me start with the fact that I am a big fan of the horror genre.  Thought this really doesn’t fall in that genre per se, it is still a very entertaining film.  Well actually let me clarify, it is a very offensive and racist film but still entertaining if that makes sense.  I mean who doesn’t want to see a racist puppet go around and bang then kill white woman.  Sounds like a riot right?  When I first saw a trailer for this film back in 2008, I know it had to be completely over-the-top if it was to be any good.  Well let’s just say it is over-the-top and then some.  While the film basically sits on the border of a soft-core porno, it still manages to get some good laughs pack in some funny vulgar one liners, a lot of breasts and gore, so overall a good time.  Definitely not for the easily or even moderately offended.

The premise of the film is laughable simple, Heather (Heather Murphy) makes the mistake of playing with a oujia board one night some how (of course not explained) summons the soul of Mubia, a black militant serial killer. Though there is a twist, the soul ends up taking form into a ventriloquist dummy thus becoming the “Black Devil Doll.”  While though Heather instantly falls for this doll, though he is unable to cannot control his urge to rape and kill white woman or white bitches, in his terms.

I really liked the DVD presentation.  The cover sleeve is double-sided with some nice artwork on the front and back. Also included is a very nice poster/booklet, which is rare to have included recently When it comes to special features, this disc is packed. There are a few trailer including original previews and exclusive festival clips.  There are two commentary tracks included, one from the filmmakers and then one from Black Devil Doll himself, which is highly recommended! There is a stills gallery included and if you’ve seen the film you will want to check out the gallery. Lastly there is a few behind-the-scenes featurettes including footage from the World Premiere at New Beverly Cinema.

DVD Review “Kill Speed”

Directed by: Kate Bass
Starring: Nick Carter, Andrew Keegan, Greg Grunberg, Bill Goldberg, Robert Patrick
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Naedomi
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 113 minutes

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

“Kill Speed” is a mix of “Fast & Furious” and “Top Gun”, but unfortunately it falls a little short on the delivery. The film runs a long at almost two hours, could have worked a lot better at 90 minutes. There is no shortage on talent (or at least notable names) including Adam Goldberg (Ex WWE Champion), Greg Grunberg (“Heroes”), Robert Patrick (“Terminator 2”), Tom Arnold (True Lies) and the Backstreet Boys’ Nick Carter.

The film follows group of speed-freak pilots who spend their time transporting crystal meth across the Mexican border with the use of their supersonic planes. They also indulge themselves in the Hollywood lifestyle with their endless cash. Though their luck changes, when they take on their biggest shipment yet, 900 pounds or $2.7million of meth. The FBI catches on their situation and they end up in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

The DVD is presented in widescreen and included a decent Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track. There is no sign of special features on this DVD, not even a trailer, which is a little disappointing. Honestly, I could recommend this film for the decent action scenes and the cast. I just wish they would have used them more to their full potential.

DVD Review “Give Me The Banjo”

Directed by: Marc Fields
Starring: Steve Martin, Bela Fleck
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: New Video Group
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 82 minutes

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

There is something about the banjo that is just fascinating. This film is narrated by actor/comedian/musician Steve Martin. He is known for being an master of the banjo and has recorded a few albums as well. The film really goes deep into the history behind the banjo. It also features numerous interviews with banjo musicians and archive footage dating back to the beginning of the banjo. If you are a music fan, you will appreciate this documentary.

“Give Me The Banjo” takes a musical journey through 300 years of American history and culture. The contemporary banjo musician that appear in the film are Pete Seeger, Earl Scruggs, Bela Fleck, Taj Mahal, Mike Seeger, Alison Brown, Sonny Osborn, Don Vappie, Cynthia Sayer and Abby Washburn. The interviews are very interesting and personal. The performance footage included takes a fantastic look into the banjo world. There is also a lot of great rare stills and recordings.

The special feature are decent overall. Firstly there is 30 minutes of extended performances from Taj Mahal, Cynthia Sayer, Ralph Stanley, Riley Baugus and Rhiannon Giddens. The footage is great and banjo lovers will enjoy the extended footage. Lastly there is a feature called “Profile of Uncle Dave Macon”. Would love liked to see more about Steve Martin perhaps, or a commentary track but overall still very impressive.

 

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DVD Review “Don’t Go in the Woods”

Directed by: Vincent D’Onofrio
Starring: Bo Boddie, Eric Bogosian, Gwynn Galitzer
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: New Video Group
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Running Time: 83 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

It is not too often that you hear the words, horror movie and musical but in the same sentence. “Don’t Go in the Woods” is a really a great blend of both. It plays like a great combination of “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and “Glee”. The music is over-the-top pop music and really adds a lot to the environment of the film. There are fast cuts and a lot of great thrills. The gore is amazing and completely over the top but not campy at all.

This is the directorial debut from Vincent D’Onofrio (Full Metal Jacket, Law & Order: Criminal Intent) and I really hope he continues directing because he is out-of-this-world! The musical/horror hybrid tells the story of a young band who heads to the woods escape everyday life and technology in order to focus on writing new songs. But their hopes of taking a break from everything will only cause them suffering as them find themselves in the middle of a nightmare.

The music in the film is fantastic lead and penned by acclaimed singer-songwriter Sam Bisbee and backed by a gifted ensemble cast. I wish they would have included some extra features concerning blending of music with horror. The special features included is “American Express Presents an Interview with Director Vincent D’Onofrio”, which is a decent look into this first directing effort. There is also a few Behind the Scenes Interviews with the Cast and Crew.

DVD Review “Knockdown”

Directed by: Todd Bellanca
Starring: Tom Arnold, Casey T. Evans, Bai Ling
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Arc Entertainment
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 93 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: 0 out of 5 stars

“Knockdown” is a boxing movie that is not about boxing, or at least I don’t think it was. The film jumps around so much that you might be down for the count just because of that, so maybe that’s it gets it’s title. Also whatever you do don’t blink or you will miss Tom Arnold role in the film. With a running time just over 90 minutes, it feels like 2+ hours. The film is a action/thriller but the action makes you want to take a nap and there is no thrill at all. Also to make things better there is zero special features included on this DVD. Pass on this film on all accounts.

Premise: Six years ago, American Boxer, JACK THE RIPPER STEMMONS had his undefeated boxing career destroyed by a bookie, who fixed the fight of Jack s life. In a rage, Jack brutally attacks the bookie and must disappear leaving everything he knows behind. Now, exiled half way around the world in Bangkok, Jack falls victim to the exotic and addictive spell of a prostitute, only to learn she has been set in his path by a scheming gangster eager for Jack to jump back into the ring– this time in Bangkok s notorious underground fight clubs. No matter how hard Jack tries to distance himself from his violent past, it always hunts and knocks him down. When a mysterious fight fan arrives in Bangkok, it is only a matter of time before Jack s past, present and future collide in a twisted climax.

 

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DVD Review “Rogue River”

Directed by: Jourdan McClure
Starring: Bill Moseley, Michelle Page, Lucinda Jenney, Art Alexakis, Chris Coy, Michael Cudlitz
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 81 minutes

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

I watch a lot of horror films and I usually see a lot of the same. “Rogue River” easily stands out among the rest. It is so brutal yet extremely subtle. The film stars Bill Moseley, who is such a horror legend. He does a lot films where he plays the crazy psycho but this one really stands out as some of his best recent work. If you are looking for a great tribute to slow-burn horror this would be the film for you. This has it all character development and yet stills delivers the thrills and the gore. Kudos to first time director Jourdan McClure as well, can’t wait to see what he does next. The film is produced by Vision Entertainment Group, co-owned by Zachery Bryan (TV’s “Home Improvement”) and if they keep it up with film’s like this they are going to be a force to reckon with.

While heading out into the isolated wilderness of Oregon to scatter her father’s ashes, Mara meets Jon, who offers to give her a ride after she discovers her car has been towed by the local sheriff. She would soon regret this decision as she becomes abducted and cannot leave after attending dinner. That is only in the first few minutes of the film though, the crazy shit starts happening when she is thrust deep into their madness and needs to find a way out before it is too late.

The film was only released on DVD, not Blu-ray unfortunately, though looks good in its widescreen presentation. The audio is impressive with its Dolby Digital 5.1 track. The special features are decent starting with a fun cast and crew commentary track. There is also decent behind-the-scenes featurette called “Rogue River: A Look Inside the Madness”. There is also a mix of deleted and extra scenes with “Rogue River: The Extra Bits”. Lastly there is also a trailer gallery included. Horror fans overall this is a MUST WATCH!

DVD Review “The Awakening”

Director: Mike Newell
Starring: Charlton Heston, Susannah York, Jill Townsend, Stephanie Zimbalist
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Running Time: 101 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

When you put Charlton Heston and mummies together, it immediately grabs my interest. The film is based of Bram Stoker’s “Jewel of the Seven Stars”. It is directed by Mike Newell, who went on to direct “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire”. The film overall drags a bit but does have a snappy ending, which I really enjoyed.

The film follows Egyptologist (Heston), who becomes obsessed with a sorceress whose return has been prophesied and also whose tomb was opened the exact moment his daughter was born. Will his obsession take him over and what is the fate of his daughter?

If you enjoy classic horror films, this 1980 film, should do the trick. “The Awakening” is presented on DVD in widescreen 16×9 with an aspect ratio of 1.85:1. It both looks and sounds good. There is no special features included, unfortunately.  But either way, thanks to Warner Archive for finally releasing this film on DVD.

DVD Review “Hatfields & Mccoys: Bad Blood”

Directed by: Fred Olen Ray
Starring: Jeff Fahey, Christian Slater, Tim Abell, Perry King, Jerry Lacy
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

Alright so, who doesn’t love a good Western?  Especially one about the always interesting feud of Hatfields & Mccoys.  Well I made the terrible mistake with watching the new History Channel mini-series also called “Hatfields & Mccoys” with Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton.  That puts this film to shame extremely quick and makes this feel like a bargain discount DVD.  Jeff Fahey is bad-ass as usual and Christian Slater is relatively missing throughout the film popping up here and there.

The story follows two families who seek vengeance against each other, while also aiming to destroy each other’s loved ones. When it comes to Hatfields & Mccoys, you expect this intense drawn out bloody feud. Unfortunately with this film it is very anti-climatic and doesn’t really ever take the plunge over the bad-ass side.

Overall if I had to make a recommendation it is a total no-brainer.  For better acting (besides Fahey, since he’s a god) check out the new History Channel mini-series if you need your Hatfields & Mccoys fix. The DVD actually does comes with a decent Dolby Digital 5.1 track. The special features are lacking just like the film. The only real extra is a commentary track from director Fred Olen Ray. There is also a stills gallery, which is next to useless anyway unless you are an animation film.

DVD Review “96 Minutes”

Directed by: Aimee Lagos
Starring: Brittany Snow, Evan Ross, Christian Serratos, David Oyelowo
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Arc Entertainment
Release Date: May 29, 2012
Running Time: 95 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

I am a big fan of films that take your on a journey though a specific event while constantly changing pace and telling the story from all different perspectives.  This film though falls flat and I found myself only losing interest as each minute progressed.  The pay-off is meant to be this thrilling climax but I found myself completely disinterested in the final outcome.

“96 Minutes” follows the intertwining story of four people that come together after a carjacking. The story flip-flops between the carjacking and the individual background of each of the young people; Carley, Dre, Lena and Kevin. Their worlds are turned upside after this one night and they will never be the same.

The film definitely really goes dark and gritty.  It also has some impressive acting, especially from Brittany Snow and Evan Ross.  The story overall though is too intertwined and has focus issues.  The special features are baron just like the film. The only extra is a commentary track from directed Aimee Lagos and actor David Oyelowo.

 

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DVD Review “Teen Wolf: The Complete Season One”

Directors: Russell Mulcahy, Toby Wilkins, Tim Andrews
Starring: Tyler Posey, Crystal Reed, Holland Roden, Tyler Hoechlin, Linden Ashby, Jill Wagner, Eaddy Mays, Melissa Ponzio
Episodes: 12
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 522 minutes

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

When it comes to “Teen Wolf”, there is really only one version the 80’s film with Michael J. Fox…and well maybe Jason Bateman in “Teen Wolf Too”, just for fun. This MTV version of this franchise feels a lot like a Twilight-infused version of the series.  The first episode is rather hard to get through and the series doesn’t particular get much better from there.  It is not unwatchable but definitely not a show that I would brag how good it is to watch.  The show will probably be loved by it’s core audience teenage girls or crazy “Twi-moms”.  Either way I will stick to the 80’s for “Teen Wolf”

This series takes us back to the beginning, unrelated 80’s franchise, of how one night will forever change or transform (literally) one teenager’s life.  Scott McCall (Tyler Posey) gets bit by a werewolf bite which introduces him to amazing supernatural powers. He has to deal with everyday angst in High School, keep his identity a secret while dealing with being a werewolf. “Teen Wolf” stars some of a hip young cast, including Tyler Posey (Scott McCall), Crystal Reed (Allison Argent), Tyler Hoechlin (Derek Hale) and Holland Roden (Lydia Martin).

For a DVD set, this contains some decent special features. There is an Extended Finale for “Code Breaker”. There is a bunch of Deleted, Alternate and Extended Scenes, as well as a Gag Reel. There is also a Behind-The-Scenes featurette. The cast provide commentary on select episodes. Teenage girls will go crazy for the Shirtless Montage. “Following The Pack: Meet The Cast Of Teen Wolf” introduces this new young cast and feature them talking about the show. Lastly there is footage from the red carpet in “Teen Wolf: Working The Red Carpet”. If you are a fan of this show, this set is for you definitely and don’t forget to tune into season two June 3rd 2012.

Season One Episodes:
“Wolf Moon”, “Second Chance at First Line”, “Pack Mentality”, “Magic Bullet”, “The Tell”, “Heart Monitor”, “Night School”, “Lunatic”, “Wolf’s Bane”, “Co-Captain”, “Formality” and “Code Breaker”

DVD Review “The River: The Complete First Season”

Created by: Oren Peli
Starring: Bruce Greenwood, Joe Anderson, Paul Blackthorne
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: ABC Studios
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 344 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“The River” is a great combination of “Lost” and “Blair Witch Project and really takes the found footage genre to the next level. Oren Peli, the genius behind the “Paranormal Activity” series created and produced this show and his involvement is very apparent. My main issue with the show is that it is short running only eight episodes, although it also keeps the show tighter and not stuffed with a lot of filler. Unfortunately this show was not renewed for season two, so the season cliffhanger will have the serve as the series finale. Who knows maybe Netflix will revive this fantastic show! Hint…Hint!

The premise of the show follows the disappearance of Dr Emmet Cole, the host of a wilderness reality show, into the depths of the Amazon.  He is presumed dead by friends and family until a signal from his communication device shows up on radar. His son & wife along with, his producer and colleagues head out to into the jungle to try and rescue him. While on this journey they decide to bring a camera crew along to document.  The group finds that Dr. Emmet Cole was in a lot deeper than everyone thought and they might have a hard time leaving the jungle once they enter it.

Besides coming from the amazing mind of Oren Peli, this series was also Executive Produced by Steven Spielberg.  Having a horror thriller on TV these days are incredible rare and like this one they unfortunately don’t last.  This DVD does not only include the complete first season, there is also some decent special features.  There are various deleted scenes included, worth checking out since you can imagine how much footage they shot for this season.  There is a making of featurette, which is a little short but still worth watching.  There is also commentary available for the episode “The Magus” and “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.”  They are two of my favorite episodes and the commentary tracks are very welcomed.

DVD Review “The Collapsed”

Directed by: Justin McConnell
Starring: Vincent Thomas, Steve Vieira, Stefano Gallo
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Anchor Bay Entertainment
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 82 minutes

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

When it comes to apocalypse/end-of-the-world film, I am always intrigued. This one fails to entertain at all though until the closing minutes, which is too much of an obvious payoff. The film is also doesn’t decide what it wants to be. Is it a zombie film? ghost story? rouge government conspiracy? Either way I still can’t put a fingers on what its goal was. The gore is also missing from the film. I am also just plain shocked that Fangoria has called the film “Genuinely Shocking”. Did they see the same film?

The premise follows a family of four who are trying to survive in the wake of the end of the world. They are looking to exit the city and escape to the their rural home. As they travel, they find that they are not alone and they find that their greatest nightmares may just be the least of their problems.

Even though the film had me bored out of my mind, the special features are decent. A little unique but decent. There is two commentary track included. One with writer/producer/director Justin McConnel and co-producer Kevin Hutchinson. The other one is with actor John Fantasia. Thre is a music video for Rob Kleiner’s “Devil in Disguise”. There is also trailers, photo gallery and cast/crew bios. The next features are unique, there is a QR code to unlock a making of documentary called “Apocalypse on a Budget”. There is also online downloads available to get the original score and screenplay.

 

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