Blu-ray Review “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King – Extended Edition”

Directed by: Peter Jackson
Starring: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin
Number of discs: 5
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 250 minutes

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

August 28th brings the first time that Peter Jackson’s visual masterpieces have been available separately on Blu-ray. “The Return of the King” is just such an epic film and really deserves an epic Blu-ray. There is no mistaken that this release is the absolute best presentation you are going to get out of this film. If you are looking to experience this film solo from the rest of the series, I would recommend purchasing this release. To be honest the real selling point for me is the Ultraviolet digital streaming copy available.

This film is just breathtaking on Blu-ray both visual and audio. The 1080p transfer is beyond pristine and presented in an aspect ratio of 2.40:1. The DTS-HD 6.1 ES sound is beyond amazing and is perfect for a good surround sound system. When I think of film that need to be watching on Blu-ray, I can’t help but thinking about this franchise. The film is released in five-disc set with two 50GB Blu-ray discs and three DVDs. Also included is features from BD-Live. I know we experienced the same thing with the “The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy” last year but all of the special features are still on DVD, which is a little disappointing to me personally but obviously they make up for the fact since there are three jam-packed discs with extras.

The final battle for Middle-earth begins. Frodo and Sam (Sean Astin), led by the mysterious Gollum (Andy Serkis), continue their dangerous mission toward the fires of Mount Doom in order to destroy the One Ring. Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen) struggles to fulfill his legacy as he leads his outnumbered followers against the growing power of the Dark Lord Sauron, so that the Ring-bearer may complete his quest. The film, which won Academy Awards® in all 11 categories for which it was nominated, took wins for Best Picture, Director, Editing, Art Direction, Costume Design, Visual Effects, Makeup, Adapted Screenplay, Sound Mixing, Original Song and Original Score.

The 5-disc Extended Edition of “The Return of the King” is very rewarding, as was its predecessors. All of the content from the 2004 extended edition DVD is available, as well as Costa Botes’ feature-length documentary like the “Fellowship” & “Two Towers”. The commentaries on this film are in line with its predecessors only going more in depth due to the shear scale of this film. Honestly by the third film the features do get a little repetitive but mega fans are sure to love every bit of information given.

Disc 1 • The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Featured Extended Edition Part 1
• The Lord of the Rings: War in the North – The Untold Story Trailer (A trailer for the upcoming videogame) • Commentary with Director & Writers • Commentary with Design Team • Commentary with Production and Post Production • Commentary with Cast • BD-Live™ enabled

Disc 2 • The Lord of the Rings: The Return of The King Featured Extended Edition Part 2 • Commentary with Director & Writers • Commentary with Design Team • Commentary with Production and Post Production • BD-Live™ enabled

Disc 3 • The Appendices Part 5: The War of the Ring: Peter Jackson’s Introduction • JRR Tolkien: The Legacy of Middle-earth (chats about the debate about Tolkien’s literary intentions) • From Book to Script • Designing and Building Middle-earth • Home of the Horse Lords (focuses on the horses, riders and horse-training using the film) • Middle-earth Atlas Map • New Zealand as Middle-earth

Disc 4 • The Appendices Part 6: The Passing of an Age: Introduction • Filming The Return of the King • Visual Effects (cocuses on the challenges of behind-the-scenes drama, timetables and shooting deadlines) • Post-Production: Journey’s End (complied of four pieces of the “Post-Production”: “Editorial: Completing the Trilogy,” talks about Jackson and editor Jamie Selkirk’s collaborative edit; “Music for Middle-earth” dives into Howard Shore’s fantastic score; “The Soundscapes of Middle-Earth” hone in on the film’s sound design; and “The End of All Things” focuses on the “The Return of the King” face to finish on schedule) • The Passing of an Age (turns to the premiere, international release, reception and the Academy Awards) • Cameron Duncan: The Inspiration for Into the West (odd choice to include but showcases: a terminally ill teenage filmmaker who visited the Lord of the Rings production several times before his death)

Disc 5 • Behind-the-Scenes Documentary Created by Filmmaker Costa Botes during filming of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (same as the first two takes a different approach to the behind-the-scenes look, runs 113 mins)

For more information: http://warnerblu.warnerbros.com/
Official Website: www.lordoftherings.net
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Blu-ray Review “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring – Extended Edition”

Directed by: Peter Jackson
Starring: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin
Number of discs: 5
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed: Warner Home Video
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 208 minutes

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

August 28th brings the first time that Peter Jackson’s visual masterpieces have been available seperately on Blu-ray. I have always had a special place in my heart for “The Fellowship of the Rings”. There has been some talk about the the transfer on this extended edition, but I never had a problem. Warner Bros issued a response that this film was remastered from the original 2K digital production files in order to reproduce the full color imagery of the feature. If you are looking to experience this film solo from the rest of the series, I would recommend purchasing this release.  To be honest the real selling point for me is the Ultraviolet digital streaming copy available.

This film is just breathtaking on Blu-ray both visual and audio. The 1080p transfer is beyond presistine and presented in an aspect ratio of 2.40:1. The DTS-HD 6.1 ES sound is beyond amazing and is perfect for a good surround sound system. When I think of film that need to be watching on Blu-ray, I can’t help but thinking about this franchise. The film is released in five-disc set with two 50GB Blu-ray discs and three DVDs.  Also included is features from BD-Live.  I know we experienced the same thing with the “The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy” last year but all of the special features are still on DVD, which is a little disappointing to me personally but obviously they make up for the fact since there are three jam-packed discs with extras.

In this first part of the Trilogy, the young hobbit Frodo Baggins inherits a ring; but this ring is no mere trinket. It is the One Ring, an instrument of absolute power that could allow Sauron, the dark Lord of Mordor, to rule Middle-earth and enslave its peoples. Frodo, together with a Fellowship that includes his loyal hobbit friends, humans, a wizard, a dwarf and an elf, must take the One Ring across Middle-earth to Mount Doom, where it first was forged, and destroy it forever. Such a journey means venturing deep into territory manned by Sauron, where he is amassing his army of Orcs. And it is not only external evils that the Fellowship must combat, but also internal dissension and the corrupting influence of the One Ring itself. The course of future history is entwined with the fate of the Fellowship. The film won four Oscars® for Best Visual Effects, Cinematography, Makeup and Original Score.

The 5-disc Extended Edition of “The Fellowship of the Ring” includes all of the special features that appear on its 2002 DVD release, in addition to filmmaker Costa Botes’ 85-minute documentary, which was previously only available as part of the Limited Edition DVD release. There are four commentary tracks on this release each one is equally good and one is not better than the next. I would like to say it says something for everyone, whether it be explanations from the director, to effects background to cast stories.

Disc 1 • The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Feature – Extended Edition Part 1 • The Lord of the Rings: War in the North – The Untold Story Trailer (A trailer for the upcoming videogame) • Commentary with Director & Writers • Commentary with Design Team • Commentary with Production and Post Production • Commentary with Cast • BD-Live™ enabled

Disc 2 • The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Extended Edition Part 2 • Commentary with Director & Writers • Commentary with Design Team • Commentary with Production and Post Production • Commentary with Cast • BD-Live™ enabled

Disc 3 • The Appendices Part 1 From Book to Vision: Peter Jackson introduces the Extended Edition • JRR Tolkien: Creator of Middle-earth (provides background on the series’ author) • From Book To Script • Visualizing the Story • Designing and Building Middle-earth (Focuses on the development & construction of the various sets and locations that appear in the film) • Middle-earth Atlas Interactive Map • New Zealand and Middle-earth Interactive Maps.

Disc 4 • The Appendices Part Two From Vision to Reality: Focuses on film’s principal photography with an Introduction by Elijah Wood • Filming The Fellowship of the Ring (88 minutes documentary including revealing string of candid stories, scene preparations and camera crews setups) • Visual Effects (creating scale, shooting forced perspective scenes, designing and building incredible miniatures and dazzling audiences with in-house visual effects by Weta Digital) • Post Production: Putting It All Together (focuses on the film’s editing process) • Digital Grading • Sound and Music (showcases the film’s sound design, original mix, sound effects and ADR, and Howard Shore’s score) • The Road Goes Ever On… (Jackson reflects on “The Fellowship of the Ring” post)

Disc 5 • Behind-the-Scenes Documentary Created by Filmmaker Costa Botes during filming of
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (More overview of the production but from a stand back point of view, runs 85 mins)

For more information: http://warnerblu.warnerbros.com/
Official Website: www.lordoftherings.net
Facebook: http://facebook.com/lordoftheringstrilogy

 

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Book Review “Making Tootsie: Inside the Classic Film with Dustin Hoffman and Sydney Pollack – The 30th Anniversary Edition”

Author: Susan Dworkin
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Newmarket Press; Expanded edition
Release Date: August 28, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love “Tootsie”. It showcases Dustin Hoffman in one of his best roles to date. It was named #2 of the 100 Best Comedies of the Twentieth Century by The American Film Institute (#1 was Some Like It Hot). This book was originally published back in March 1983. This 30th anniversary edition is presented as a film study. Thanks to Newmarket Press, this book is back in both print and e-book editions.

The writer Susan Dworkin was the only journalist Pollack and Columbia Pictures permitted on the set and in the editing room. She is a playwright, award-winning documentary writer, and Ms. magazine contributing editor. She conducted in-depth interviews not only with its director and star but also with the costume designer, the film editors, costars Teri Garr, Bill Murray, and Dabney Coleman, and many others. She really understands and loves this movie and it shows through her work.

This short but sweet trade paperback is a very each read and very informative. There are also 52 beautiful photos from the film and production. This is a must for all fans of this film and lovers of great cinema. So get ready to travel back to 1982 with director Sydney Pollack and actor Dustin Hoffman and the wonderful collaboration that created one of our best enduring classic.

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Blu-ray Review “Good Will Hunting: 15th Anniversary Edition”

Directed by: Gus Van Sant
Starring: Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Ben Affleck, Minnie Driver, Stellan Skarsgård, Casey Affleck
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lionsgate
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 126 minutes

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

When it comes to re-releasing films on Blu-ray for different anniversary’s I am always skeptic. This 15th anniversary edition re-release definitely delivers the good. This film incorporates some of the best performances in the last 15 years easy. It was nominated for nine Oscars at the 1998 Academy Awards (including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor). It won Best Original Screenplay for Ben and Matt (which launched their careers), and Best Supporting for Robin Williams. I would have to say revisiting this film that it still holds up and really entertains. No matter how many times I’ve seen this film I still enjoy it. If do not own this film on Blu-ray, this would be the time to pick it up for sure.

While the 15th Anniversary Edition of “Good Will Hunting” doesn’t boast any new changes in the audio and video department. It still delivers the same impressive presentation from the previous release. Lionsgate presents the film in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1 with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. For a film that is 15 years old, it looks good with its 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encoded transfer. Since the film is rather quiet and reliant on dialogue the 5.1 audio track works well with the film’s fast paced chatting. This releases comes in a Blu-ray keepcase and has a slipcover. Although, it doesn’t comes with the digital copy though like the previous release.

There are two new retrospective features have been added to this 15th Anniversary release, both which are very impressive. “Reflecting on a Journey: ‘Good Will Hunting’ 15 Years Later” is the first one and runs over an hour long. It is a great retrospective look at the film. There is great coverage from Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and Gus Van Sant, Robin Williams. I was very impressed with the cast/crew’s updated involvement on this feature. “Matt Damon Remembers ‘Good Will Hunting'” runs just under 20 minutes and features Damon reflecting on the role and its effect on his career.

Ports from the previous releases include a really great audio commentary with director Gus Van Sant, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon discussing the movie. It is a must listen for all fans. There are 20 minutes of deleted scenes available with optional commentary from Van Sant, Damon, and Affleck. “Production Featurette” features interviews with the cast/crew within footage from the film. “Behind the Scenes” is a short montage of footage put again Danny Elfman’s score. There is a music video for “Miss Misery” by Elliot Smith. “Academy Awards Best Picture Montage” is a short clip from the event. Lastly the theatrical trailer is included.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Full Metal Jacket: 25th Anniversary Edition”

Director: Stanley Kubrick
Starring: Matthew Modine, Adam Baldwin, Vincent D’Onofrio, R. Lee Ermey, Dorian Harewood, Kevyn Major Howard
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed: Warner Home Video
Release Date: August 7, 2012
Running Time: 116 minutes

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

As much as I absolutely love this film, the 25th Anniversary release of “Full Metal Jacket” feel a little but like a double dip…but you know you still need it if you are a die-hard fan. The main draw here is a newly added 60 minute documentary and an impressive 48-page DigiBook with photos from Matthew Modine’s personal collection. Also within there are behind-the-scenes stories on the production and the music. I think for this is honestly worth the purchase alone. If you agree then you don’t want to miss this release. I know it may be hard to believe but this is the first time I am watching this film on Blu-ray and it was definitely worth the wait.

The film says to included a new remastered video though it is the same as the 2007/2011 releases. Nonetheless it still looks incredibly impressive. It easily warrants 5/5 stars for 1080 transfer alone. There are many a few audio when it comes to the film’s audio. The Dolby Digital 5.1 is the default but the uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround track is sharper and more impressive. The special features are decent but feels a little light overall. “Stanley Kubrick’s Boxes” is an hour-long documentary, which follows director Jon Ronson as he is given a chance to dig through thousands of boxes on Kubrick estate following his death. There is a commentary track from author/screenwriter Jay Cocks and actors Adam Baldwin, Vincent D’onofrio and Lee Ermey. Sounds perfect right? It would have been but it was recorded individually, so the fun was gone. Matthew Modine takes the lead in “Between Good and Evil” focusing on the filming, casting, and the overall production. Lastly, there is the theatrical trailer included.

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Premise: Marine recruits endure basic training under a leather-lunged D.I., then plunge into the hell of Vietnam. Matthew Modine heads a talented ensemble in this searing look at a process that turns people into killers.

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Blu-ray Review “Total Recall: Mind-Bending Edition”

Director: Paul Verhoeven
Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rachel Ticotin, Sharon Stone, Ronny Cox, Michael Ironside
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: July 31, 2012
Running Time: 113 minutes

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

With the remake of “Total Recall” on the way, Lionsgate is re-releasing this classic sci-fi film in a new Mind-Bending Edition. The Blu-ray boasts a new, director-supervised and approved transfer, which was taken from the original negative. After the last go-round for “Total Recall” on Blu-ray it left a lot of fans highly disappointed. This release will not disappoint and is available for an extremely “mind-bending” price as well. Fans of Schwarzenegger who want to see him head to Mars in high definition, I highly recommend picking up this release.

The film takes place in 2084, a time when we have colonized the planet Mars. Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as Quaid, a construction worker who dreams of visiting Mars. Since his wife (Sharon Stone) has no plans to move to Mars, Quaid find a company called Rekall which will implants artificial memories of a trip to the red planet. However things go array during the memory implant, Quaid realizes that his actually memories have been covered up and he is secret agent from Mars, or is he?

If you recall, the last go on Blu-ray for this film back in 2006, the video and audio presentation were very disappointing. This release definitely brings a much better looking 1080p video transfer. It was even approved by Verhoeven himself as the way he intended the film to look. This DTS-HD Master 5.1 audio track is also an improvement over the previous Blu-ray releases DTS 5.1 ES Matrix and Dolby Digital 5.1 EX. 6 years have delivered new wonders to Blu-ray and this release definitely needed an upgrade.

If the Blu-ray presentation wasn’t enough this Mind-Bending Edition also included some new kick ass features. There is an all-new interview with Director Paul Verhoeven, running over 30 minutes reminiscing about the film. There is also a super cool “Restoration Comparison” looking into how the film was transferred to high-def from original film’s negative. There is decent but not amazing commentary with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Paul Verhoeven. There are two Behind-the-scenes featurettes included. “Models and Skeletons: The Special Effects of Total Recall” runs about 30 minutes and is presented in HD. “Imagining Total Recall” is in SD but still very cool. Lastly there is a photo gallery and theatrical trailer included.

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Comic Images’ Limited Edition Gold Lamé Plush C3PO Giveaway [ENDED]

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

In honor of San Diego Comic Con this week, Comic Images and Media Mikes are teaming up to giveaway one of their brand new limited edition first-ever C3PO Super Deformed Plush. This is a 14” limited edition Super Deformed Plush made of gold lamé that will only be available at Comic Con and Celebration.  This is a special and super rare giveaway for the biggest “Star Wars” fans.

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 quote from “Star Wars” series. This giveaway will be open until Friday July 27th 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 a winner and alert via email.

If you are hitting up SDCC this year but sure to visit the Comic Images booth (#2913B), where Yoda, Darth and Chewy join Spidey and Frankenstein to rein supreme in all their geekdom.  For more information about Comic Images product line, visit www.ComicImages.com.

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Blu-ray Review “Treasure Planet:10th Anniversary Edition”

Directors: John Musker, Ron Clements
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emma Thompson, Roscoe Lee Browne, Corey Burton, Patrick McGoohan
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: July 3, 2012
Running Time: 95 minutes

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

There is something unique about Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island”, it is such a timeless story and always draws me in no matter what.  Throw in the fact it is made by Disney and includes a futuristic twist, I say count me in! The directors behind this film are John Musker & Ron Clements known best for “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin”. They are legends and even though this film isn’t a classic it still ranks well among Disney’s animated films. It is fun and very visually impressive. In fact the film not only showcases hand-drawn 2D traditional animation but also feature fully-mapped CGI environments. Even though this film was a financial disappointment, it is still a visual masterpiece, includes fun characters and a great tribute to Stevenson’s story.  Disney fans will not want to miss this release for sure!

Like all Disney Blu-ray, especially the hand-drawn ones, “Treasure Planet” looks amazing with its 1080 transfer. It is a virtually perfect transfer and a really treat for this film’s anniversary release. The audio available is jam packed with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. It really shines and works great with the film’s action scenes. This release comes in a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD disc within.

The special features included on this Blu-ray are basically ports of the 2003 DVD but still are decent.  There is an introduction to the extras from actress Laurie Metcalf.  There is an amazing audio commentary with producer Roy Conli, co-directors/co-writers John Musker and Ron Clements, and supervising animators Glen Keane, John Ripa and Ian Gooding.  It is extesive and very entertaining. There are almost 45 minutes of production featurettes within mini one-to-three-minute featurettes ranging from pencil tests, early animatics and more.  “Disney’s Animation Magic” features Roy Disney going behind-the-scenes of “Treasure Planet” within all aspects of the production.  There are three unfinished deleted scenes, including an alternate ending with intros by directors John Musker and Ron Clements. “R.L.S. Legacy: Virtual 3D Tour” is split into two parts, the first is “Technical Tour” and “Nautical Tour”.  Lastly “DisneyPedia: The Life of a Pirate Revealed” is a six-part featurette looks at the life and time of historical pirates.

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Blu-ray Review “Newsies: 20th Anniversary Edition”

Directed by: Kenny Ortega
Starring: Christian Bale, David Moscow, Bill Pullman, Robert Duvall, Max Casella
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: June 19, 2012
Running Time: 121 minutes

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

It is hard to believe that it is already the 20th anniversary of the classic family musical. “Newsies” was a film that I grew up watching, as did my wife (one of her favorites) and it is hard to believe that so much time has passed. The film still holds up and still entertains just like it did 20 years ago. “Newsies” is currently also spreading the news on Broadway nightly and that is one thing I always thought this film would work great on the stage. The dance sequences are absolutely incredible and brilliantly choreographed by Kenny Ortega (“High School Musical”) and features music from the Hollywood legend Alan Menken (“Beauty And The Beast”). It is also crazy to see The Dark Knight and Academy Award winner Christian Bale, so young and not only dancing up-a-storm but also singing. “Santa Fe” is one of my favorites musical tracks ever. Fans of this film need to pick this release up immediately and get ready sing-along!

For a film that shot over 20 years ago before high definition, the 1080p video resolution looks clear and impressive. There is a little grain here and there but overall, I think it is a nice transfer and should satisfy most fans of the film with Disney’s state-of-the-art digital restoration. The audio in this film is key since it is a musical and it sounds great with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The music is blended well with the dialogue and is not overpowered. It is even able to come through nicely with your wife belting every line in your ear during each song.

The special features here include nothing new for its 20th anniversary release but still are decent. There is a 2002 commentary track with Director and Co-Choreographer Kenny Ortega, Producer Michael Finnell, Writers Bob Tzudiker and Noni White and Co-Choreographer Peggy Holmes, overall fun and interesting. “Newsies, Newsies, See All About It” is a featurette hosted by Max Cassella, Aaron Lohr and Arvie Lowe Jr. featuring interviews, rehearsal and on-set footage. “Newsies: The Inside Story” is another featurette continuing where the last left off with interviews on production design, costume, cinematography. “The Strike! The True Story” looks at historical context and background from the events that inspired the film. “Storyboard-to-Screen Comparison” is a nice feature with side-by-side view available with optional Commentary by Production Designer William Sandell. Lastly there are two trailers available as well and a sing-along feature in the subtitle menu as well.

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Blu-ray Review “Deliverance: 40th Anniversary Edition”

Directed by: John Boorman
Starring: Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty, Ronny Cox
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: June 26, 2012
Running Time: 109 minutes

Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Film: 3.5 out of stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

It’s really hard to believe that “Deliverance” was released 40 years ago.  I remember the first time I say this film as a kid and being completely mortified.  The film is such a classic and packs some of the most notable quotes and music in film history.  I mean who doesn’t love the “Dueling Banjos”?  This 40th Anniversary Edition release DigiBook is a real improvement from Warner’s last Blu-ray release back in 2007.  I have to say this film probably contains the best performances from its cast Burt Reynolds, Jon Voight and Ned Beatty.  If you are a fan of this movie, it is worth the upgrade if you have it on Blu-ray and if you don’t it is a simple no-brainer.

This 40th Anniversary Edition release of “Deliverance” comes in my favorite packaging, DigiBook.  I am a huge fan of this type of packaging and it really adds a lot of value for fans of the film and much better than an empty plastic case.  This film really excels it its 1080p video transfer and looks amazing with its aspect ratio of 2.40:1.  Though the spotlight of this release has to go to Warner’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track.  It is a new lossless mix and really adds a lot to the release value.

For those looking for more value, the special features are impressive and contain a newly produced retrospective with the film’s leading men.  “Deliverance: The Cast Looks Back” runs about 30 minutes and features Jon Voight, Ned Beatty, Burt Reynolds and Ronny Cox reflecting back on the production, 40 years backs. It is a great new features.  There is a rehashed “Four-Part Retrospective” from the 2007 Blu-ray release, which covers from author James Dickey’s best-selling novel to the shooting on locations to the notable Dueling Banjos scene and many of the controversies that have surrounded this film.  There is an audio commentary track with Director John Boorma, which is decent but nothing special.  Next up there is a “The Dangerous World of Deliverance” which is an awesome vintage featurette, dated but still super cool.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

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Premise: Four city men on a weekend canoe trip pit their nerve and muscle against the churning waters of a wild Georgia river — where only three are “delivered” from the heart-pounding experience.

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Blu-ray Review “Chronicle: The Lost Footage Edition”

Directed by: Josh Trank
Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Michael Kelly, Alex Russell
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Run Time: 84 minutes

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

It is rare that a film gets better with repeat viewings…well “Chronicle” does. The film is such a simple idea that packs such a payoff in the end that it only get better and better. Since this release is called “The Lost Footage Edition”, I was hoping for a decent Unrated Director’s Cut. But it is really not much more that just glorified extended scenes. I still prefer the Theatrical Cut and if you stick with that then this film will not disappoint. Found Footage POV films were given a whole new twist with this film and I look forward to “Chronicle 2”.

“Chronicle” follows three high school kids that come across a mysterious object buried in the ground, touch it and end up with superpowers. It is basically that simple. The guys firstly experience some telekinesis by moving cars around parking lots or pranks in grocery stores but then they realize they can do a hell of a lot more. Once they find out they can fly things get amped up quite a bit. When one of the guys takes his powers a little too far, it is up to his friends to try and stop him before it is too late.

The Blu-ray looks and sounds out of this world (get it?). Seriously, the 1080p transfer looks so vibrant, even though it is considered a low-budget POV film. The sound packs an impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and works so well with the film’s action scenes. This release, along with the Blu-ray, comes with a DVD disc of the film and a digital copy. Since this is the “The Lost Footage Edition”, the film does include both the Unrated Director’s Cut and the Theatrical Cut.

The special features though are not as impressive as the film at all. There is no commentary tracks, interviews or major behind-the-scenes featurettes. There is a short feature looking into the camera tests, which showcase the tricks from the film. “Pre-Viz” focuses on the special effects sequences, would have been decent if it was about 15 minutes longer. There is a brief deleted scene called “Matt and Casey in Kitchen”. Lastly, there is the theatrical trailer and “Chronicle” Soundtrack Info included.

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Blu-ray Review “42nd Street Forever: The Blu-ray Edition”

Directed by: Joe D’amato, Charles B. Pierce, Paul Maslansky, Abel Ferrara
Starring: Tisa Farrow, Christina Lindberg, David Hess, Robert Quarry, Linda Blair
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Synapse Films
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Running Time: 225 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I just love the Blu-ray format. The “42nd Street Forever” series has been released before but over various different volumes on DVD. So what is “42nd Street Forever”? Well if you are a fan of grindhouse and exploitation films, then it is your new favorite Blu-ray! This is a best of collection that includes an amazing collection of vintage theatrical trailers. It combines the first two volumes of the series and even adds in with some all-new selections.

No matter what you are looking for sex, violence or monsters, this includes all that and a whole lot more. Being a born New Yorker, I remember walking the streets of the city and being intrigued with the infamous 42nd Street many years ago. Though, I wasn’t around from the late-’50s through the 1970s but thanks to Synapse Films we are able to experience a little piece through these trailers. What is even cooler about this release is that there is over three and a half hours of trailers from all over the world. So sit down get, get your popcorn and get ready to get your blown away with the charm of 42nd street.

Just to give you an idea of some of the trailers included are: The Flesh And Blood Show, The .44 Specialist, Ginger, The Grim Reaper, The Guy From Harlem, Hard Candy, Helga, Hells Angels On Wheels, Honky, I, A Woman, I Disremember Mama/Blood Spattered Bride, Invitation To Ruin, The Italian Stallion, Maid In Sweden, Mark Of The Witch, Ms. 45, Panorama Blue, The Pink Angels, The Pom Pom Girls, The Raiders Of Atlantis, Savage!, Savage Sisters, Secret Africa, Shocking Asia, Shogun Assassin, Spy In Your Eye, Street Girls, Sugar Hill, Super Fuzz, Supermanchu, Taboos Of The World, The Tale Of The Dean’s Wife, The Teacher, They Call Her One Eye, They Came From Beyond Space, The 3 Dimensions Of Greta, The Undertaker Ana His Pals, Welcome Home, Brother Charles, Werewolves On Wheels, When Women Had Tails, Wicked Wicked and Many More!

This release looks absolutely stunning in its remastered 1080p high definition transfer. Of course, some of the trailers are not the best quality but that is just expected especially with exploitation films. Just be warned, keep the kiddies (and maybe even wife’s) away because this is not afraid to offend you at all. If all that isn’t enough, there is also I hope that Synapse will release the future volumes on Blu-ray as well or at least continue to release the films from these trailers on Blu-ray. Keep it up Synapse you guys have never disappointed yet.

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Blu-ray Review “Gremlins: 25th Anniversary Edition”

Directed by: Joe Dante
Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton, Polly Holliday, Frances Lee Mccain
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: December 1, 2009 / May 8, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

This Blu-ray release was for the film’s 25th Anniversary, so nothing new hear besides a release to support the release of “Gremlins 2” Blu-ray. There has been some really terrible talk about this Blu-ray but I didn’t see any may issues and quite enjoyed it. I grew up watching “Gremlins” and my wife got to experience this film for the first time on Blu-ray.  We were both whistling the theme song for days following.

The Blu-ray, while not the best transfer ever, was not the worst either.  Have you ever seen “Black Christmas” on Blu-ray?…Yikes! The VC-1 encoded 1080p transfer looks fine for me in its aspect ratio of 1.78:1. Like I said not the best but definitely not the worst. The audio was definitely impressive and worked well with Jerry Goldsmith’s classic score.  There are two audio tracks included boasting a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and an Dolby Digital 2.0 track.

The special features included are a bit lacking but worth checking out.  There are two audio commentaries included.  The first includes director Joe Dante, producer Michael Finnell and special effects artist Chris Walas. The second commentary track features director Joe Dante, and actors Phoebe Cates, Zach Galligan, Dick Miller and Howie Mandel.  Both tracks are equally decent, one focusing on production and one shooting stories.  “Gremlins: Behind-the-Scenes” is a 1983 vintage featurette featuring footage from the shoot.  It is dated but fun to take a trip back to 1983.  There are also over 10 minutes of additional scenes included, which definitely add some fun scenes and more Judge Reinhold.  Lastly, there is a photo gallery and trailers for “Gremlins” and “Gremlins 2: The New Batch”.

Synopsis: A man buys a Mogwai as a Christmas present for his son. The young boy is told to keep the pet away from water, out of the light and never to feed it after midnight. Inadvertently, the creature is dampened and almost instantly, produces half a dozen furry replicas of itself –which continue to multiply and turn the small town upside-down.

Buy It 5/8 on Blu-ray™
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Blu-ray Review “Camelot: 45th Anniversary Edition”

Directed by: Joshua Logan
Starring: Richard Harris, Vanessa Redgrave, Franco Nero
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Warner Bros.
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Running Time: 179 minutes

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

This film was based off the classic Broadway musical and it definitely has it problems overall but still manages to entertain. The film runs a very long three hours and definitely drags in parts. The saving grace for the film was the musical numbers and the performances.  I really enjoyed the music and Richard Harris and Vanessa Redgrave are just stunning. You can just see the amount of production that went into this film, no expenses were spared. The Blu-ray itself is worth picking up if you are a fan of this film for sure and it is a great way to introduce the film to you if you have never seen it.

This 45th Anniversary Edition comes with a Digibook packaging, which contains a lot of great images and information. Also included is a separate CD containing four songs from the score, though I wish they would have included the full CD. The video resolution on the Blu-ray looks great with its 1080p transfer and presented in an 2.40:1 aspect ratio. The audio included is a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track which is fantastic, especially with the film’s musical sequences.

The special features are decent at best with only two new features for this release. There is a new commentary track by Stephen Farber, which is interesting and very in-depth. There is also a new featurette called “Camelot: Falling Kingdoms”, which runs about 30 minutes and includes interviews and some interesting production information. There are also two featurettes included that were on the previously released on DVD and are only presented in standard definition. The first is called “The World Premiere of Camelot” and takes us back to to 1967 for the premiere of the film. The second is “The Story of Camelot”, which focuses on the “real” Camelot. Lastly there is four theatrical trailers included. Since this film is known for its music, it is sad that their is no Isolated Score track that was on the DVD release.

Synopsis: The oft-told tales of Arthurian legend have always been fertile ground for art. With countless books, films and songs on the subject, there have been many interpretations of Merlin, the Knights of the Round Table, the glories of the kingdom of Camelot and the doomed love triangle of King Arthur, Lady Guenevere and Sir Lancelot du Lac. The musical Camelot, however, remains the most iconic. Consider the historical context of the piece. Originated for the stage in 1960, Camelot coincided with the presidency of a young John F. Kennedy. Kennedy was a big fan of Camelot; he identified with King Arthur and, according to the First Lady, she and the President would often listen to the soundtrack before going to bed at night. Tragically, and ironically, just as Arthur’s rule lasted for one brief, shining moment, so did Kennedy’s, and the press forever linked the two legendary leaders many hundreds of years apart. Camelot is emblematic of JFK and, as such, it is emblematic of an era.

Camelot celebrates its 45th anniversary with the Blu-ray debut on April 24th !

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: 45th, anniversary, bluray, camelot, edition, review, ...

CD Review: “Titanic: Collector’s Anniversary Edition”

Composer/Conductor: James Horner
Release Date: March 26, 2012
Number of Discs: 4
Running Time
Label: Sony Masterworks

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

With the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Titanic launch and the 15th anniversary and re-release in 3D of James Cameron’s film, I can’t seem you get enough of “Titanic“. It is one of those movies that once you start watching you are hooked. The same goes for the wonderful score by James Horner. I spent countless hours listening to this score on repeat back in ’97 through at least ’99. It has been quite a while since I’ve listened and it still is just amazing. This amazing Collector’s Anniversary Edition is not just the score to “Titanic”. It includes much much more.

Sony Classical is the label behind this amazing 4-CD set with newly remastered versions of both the original and “Back to the Titanic” soundtracks. It also features a previously unreleased disc of period music recorded for the movie by I Salonisti (the 5-piece quintet that appears in the film) and also “Popular Music From The Titanic Era”, which is a new compilation of songs from the early 1900’s. I mean honestly what else can you ask for if you are a fan. Well, there is more…this release also comes packaged with four vintage Titanic luggage stickers and a booklet with previously unseen production photos. This is easily one of composer’s James Horner best pieces of work and it will be recognized for many years to come.

Even if you own the “Titanic” soundtrack already, I mean who doesn’t it sold over 25 million copies worldwide. I would suggest picking this up. It is a wonderful compliment to the film and includes so much new recordings that it is worth it just for the three bonus discs. I really enjoyed the disc of music from I Salonisti, which was recorded for the movie itself but never recorded. I am a big fan of music from that period and this was a great addition to the already amazing score. It really made you feel like you were re-experiencing the movie and the music for the first time.

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: anniversary, cd, collectors, edition, review, titanic, ...
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