Blu-ray Review “George A. Romero’s Day of the Dead (Collector’s Edition)”

Actors: Lori Cardille, Terry Alexander, Richard Liberty, Joseph Pilato
Directors: George A. Romero
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 101 minutes

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

I have always loved “Day of the Dead” but it is a very hard act to follow! “Dawn of the Dead” is easily one of the best horror films ever. But “Day” still has a ton of life in it (get the pun?!) and still holds up today even after almost 30 years. With TV shows like “The Walking Dead” and  films like “World War Z”, zombies have never been hotter, so this is a great time to revisit this classic. You also get to see “The Walking Dead” Director/Co-Executive Producer/Special Effects Make-Up Artist Greg Nicotero start off in the business with his first acting role. “Scream Factory, which is part Shout Factory, is finally giving this film the release that it deserves with this Collector’s Edition Blu-ray. This film has never looked so good and shines with this release. If you own Starz/Anchor Bay rather bland 2007 release of this film, it is definitely worth the upgrade. No question!

Official Premise: The concluding part of George A. Romero’s cult horror trilogy opens with the undead roaming the planet freely. The living have been forced underground, where they make their base in a hidden missile depot, helping with the experiments of scientist Doctor Logan (Liberty), who hopes to domesticate the zombies. However, the military faction of the human survivors favour a more direct approach, and with food stocks becoming ever more depleted, they decide to take action. What folllows is the final showdown between the forces of the living and the armies of the dead.

Scream Factory gave this film a lot of love with a brand new high-def transfer…and it looks stunning. I have the older 2007 Blu-ray and the comparison is really amazing.  Top that with a solid DTS-HD Master Audio track and this release is kicking on all cylinders. There is also some fantastic special features including two brand new extras. “World’s End: The Legacy of “Day of the Dead” is a brand new documentary, which is easily worth the purchase of the disc alone. “Underground: A Look into the ‘Day of the Dead’ Mines” is another new feature looking into the film’s shooting location.  There are two audio commentary tracks, the first with writer/director George A. Romero, Special Make-up Effects artist Tom Savini, Production Designer Cletus Anderson and actress Lori Cardille. The second is with filmmaker Roger Avary.  There is some great behind-the-scenes footage coming straight from Tom Savini’s personal archives. Lastly there are Photo Galleries, Theatrical Trailers and TV Spots included.

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DUN DUN DAHHH! Dreamworks Animation’s Epic Comedy-Adventure, “The Croods”, Arrives on Blu-ray™ Deluxe Edition and DVD on October 1st

 

DUN DUN DAHHH! DREAMWORKS ANIMATION’S EPIC COMEDY-ADVENTURE, THE CROODS, ARRIVES ON BLU-RAY™ DELUXE EDITION AND DVD WITH A BELT PLUSH TOY – FOR A LIMITED TIME – ON OCTOBER 1ST
Over $582 Million at the Box Office Worldwide!
Blu-ray™ Deluxe Edition and DVD are Packed with Croodaceous Content!
Get THE CROODS on Digital HD™ Two Weeks Early!

 
 

LOS ANGELES, CA – Dun Dun Dahhh! Lauded by critics as “the first great animated film of 2013” (Pete Hammond, Movieline), Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment announces the blockbuster hit, DreamWorks Animation’s THE CROODS, will debut on Digital HD™ on September 15 and Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray™ and DVD on October 1. “An instant animated classic,” (Jake Hamilton, FOX-TV), THE CROODS promises to bring the whole family together “from 4 to 104” (Sam Rubin, KTLA), to delight in “stunning visuals, humor and heart,” (Jim Hill, Huffington Post) as the world’s first family embark on an unforgettable adventure. The Blu-ray™ and DVD are chock full of fun bonus material that will bring the vibrant, amazing world of THE CROODS home for the whole family to enjoy. The perfect treat for kids of all ages, THE CROODS Blu-ray™ and DVD comes with a lovable Belt plush toy for a limited time only.

 

Join the Croods on the journey of a lifetime in the epic comedy-adventure that “has the magical wonder of How To Train Your Dragon” – Jake Hamilton (Fox-TV). When their cave is destroyed, the Croods set out to explore a spectacular landscape filled with fantastic creatures, strange surprises…and a whole new world of adventure!

 

Written and directed by Chris Sanders (Lilo & Stitch) and Kirk DeMicco (Space Chimps),THE CROODS is “an Animated Avatar,” hails Bill Bregoli of CBS News and is the must-see animated film of the year! Fans of all ages will be cracking up for the adventure everyone loves. Led by an outstanding voice cast featuring Oscar®-winner* Nicholas Cage, Golden Globe®-nominee** Emma Stone, Ryan Reynolds and Oscar®-nominee*** Catherine Keener, the Croods invite your whole family to travel back in time and discover their world.

 

The purchase of the Blu-ray™ or DVD unlocks additional content on THE CROODSColoring App, which allows children to color their favorite characters and scenes from the film, add text and voice to the story, and then share their storybook on their TVs at home. Also on the Blu-ray™, families can join Guy, Eep and Belt as they introduce the crazy “Croodaceous Creatures” – the striking and unique animals from the film – and much more. And for a limited time only, any purchase of the Blu-ray™ or DVD comes with a lovable Belt toy! Dun Dun Dahhh! Pre-order today!

 

DreamWorks Animation’s The Croods Blu-ray™ Deluxe Edition
The Croods Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Deluxe Edition include a Belt plush toy for a limited time and more than an hour of bonus features:
     Feature film in high definition

 

     Blu-ray Exclusive Bonus Features:
● The Croodaceous Creatures of Croods! – Find out more about your favorite Croods creatures!
● Be An Artist! – Now you can draw Belt, Macawnivore and Mousephant
● The Croods Coloring & Storybook Builder App

 

     Additional Bonus Features:
● Belt’s Cave Journal – Take a journey with Belt and Guy as they rescue a Jackrobat
● Belt’s Cave Journal – Take a journey with Belt and Guy as they rescue a Jackrobat
● World of DreamWorks Animation – Music videos from your favorite DreamWorks Animation feature films

 

DreamWorks Animation’s The Croods Blu-ray™ 3D Deluxe Edition
The Croods Blu-ray™ 3D + Blu-ray™ + DVD + Digital Copy Deluxe Edition includes the following:
     Feature film in high definition and 3DAll the Blu-ray™ and DVD content listed above

DreamWorks Animation’s The Croods DVD
The single disc DVD includes a Belt plush toy for a limited time plus the following:
     Feature film in standard definition
     Bonus Features:
● Belt’s Cave Journal
● Croods Cuts (Lost Scenes)
● World of DreamWorks Animation
● Previews

 

ABOUT DREAMWORKS ANIMATION
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 26 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Puss In Boots, and The Croods.

 

ABOUT TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray™ and DigitalHD™. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox.

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Blu-ray Review “Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie” (Collector’s Edition)

Actors: Michael J. Nelson, Trace Beaulieu, Kevin Murphy
Directors: Jim Mallon
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: September 3, 2013
Run Time: 74 minutes

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

I have been a way of Mystery Science Theater 3000 or MST3K (to hardcore fans) since it first started airing on TV. I have always admired classic 50/60’s cheesy sci-fi/horror films growing up and this was a great way to enjoy it on a new level through humor. MST3K was produced and set between seasons 6 and 7 of the show and felt like a regular episode of the show yet quite epic at the same time. Trace Beaulieu (Crow T. Robot), Kevin Murphy (Tom Servo) and Michael J. Nelson are just a riot together. If you are a fan of this type of humor also check out Michael J. Nelson and Kevin Murphy’s latest collaboration, RiffTrax, which are downloadable audio commentaries for many many great (I mean horrible films). “This Island Earth” is such a fun film, bad, but still fun. The jokes are never better and still funny after all these years. I highly recommended release for all fans of MST3K!

Official Premise: After six seasons of sublime, nerdy fun on television, the cult comedy series Mystery Science Theater 3000 took to the big screen in 1996 for its deliriously funny takedown of the 1955 alien invasion epic This Island Earth. Evil scientist Dr. Clayton Forrester explains the premise at the start: in his quest for world domination, he devises a scheme to subject the human race to the worst movies ever made. He tests his plan on Mike Nelson, the sole human aboard an Earth-orbiting space station known as the Satellite of Love. But our hero and his two robot sidekicks turn a lemon into a much funnier lemon by showering This Island Earth with wisecracks, ridicule and general silliness. The human race may never be rid of cheesy movies, but when the critics are this nutty, who cares?

Shout! Factory released this Collector’s Edition as a Blu-ray + DVD combo pack. I have to admit, I was actually rather impressed with the 1080p transfer. We have all see MST3K and we know that the films that they critique are not the highest quality of cinema. They are usually old 50/60’s public domain films but they did a good job of cleaning this up for its high-def debut. The DTS-HD Master Audio track also works well with the film’s very fast and snappy jokes.

What I am most excited about is the fact that there are some decent special features included for this release. There is “The Making of Mystery Science Theater 3000 The Movie”, which gives a lot of great insight about the MST3K crew and the production. There are deleted scenes including the removed sequences from the riffed motion picture and the alternate ending. So this is a must for all fans! “Mystery Science Theater 3000 The Movie: The Motion Picture Odyssey” includes new interviews with cast and crew and never-before-seen behind the scenes footage. This is again a must for any fan. “This Island Earth: 2 1/2 Years In the Making” shows how much preparation it was to put this today. Lastly there is the original trailer included.

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Blu-ray Review “An American Hippie In Israel (Limited Edition)”

Actors: Asher Tzarfati, Shmuel Wolf, Lilli Avidan, Tsilla Karny
Directors: Amos Sefer
Number of discs: 3
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Grindhouse Releasing
Release Date: September 10, 2013
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

“What the fuck?” Those are the words that I said aloud about receiving this Blu-ray release. I have not had the privilege of seeing “An American Hippie In Israel” prior to recently.  It was originally filmed in 1972 and is so unbelievably bad that is actually is very entertaining. I mean right from the box it is absolutely impossible to say no to the following – “machine-gun wielding mimes, robots, bloodthirsty sharks, free-loving debauchery and poignant anti-war monologues”. After reading that, it is one of those moments where you just have to drop everything and just watch it immediately.   This film is actually become quite the midnight sensation and cult classic over the year. This long lost psychedelic classic will probably only appeal to its fans with little crossover but it is definitely a crazy trip.

Thanks to Grindhouse Releasing who is giving us this crazy fucked up film, which is being released for the very first time on home-video.  The film is being released as a deluxe edition 3-disc Blu-ray/DVD combo, which is actually limited to 2000 copies that are going to be individually numbered. I expect this to be out of print quickly and become a very sought upon Blu-ray. Also included is a bonus DVD of “The Hitchhiker”, the Uncensored Director’s Cut. The film does scream 1970’s porn when watching it but Grindhouse gave it a really sharp high-definition digital restoration from the the original U.S. theatrical version print.  So it still look the part but has a nice new paint job. In terms of audio there is a bonus Bonus 5.1 audio track dubbed “The Beverly Cinema Experience”, definitely delivers a good time.

The special features are ridiculously jam-packed. There are six controversial scenes deleted From the original release, just when you though it couldn’t get worse. There are in-depth interviews With the film stars Asher Tzarfati And Shmuel Wolf, the Production Manager Moshe Berman and Singer/Co-Star Susan Devore. There is also a featurette on the star in “Asher Tzarfati – An Israeli Actor In Israel”. There is a “Channel 10 Tel Avi News Segment” and “A Cult Is Born” featurette on the film’s revival In Tel Aviv. There are the original 16mm Screen Tests and also “Be Careful Children”, which is Amos Sefer 16mm short film. Lastly there is Liner Notes By Acclaimed Horror Novelist John Skipp, Still Galleries, Trailer, Filmographies and Optional Hebrew Sub-Titles, as well as Grindhouse Releasing Prevues Of Coming Attractions.

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Blu-ray Review “Street Trash: Special Meltdown Edition”

Actors: James Lorinz, Mike Lackey, Mark Sferrazza, Bill Chepil
Directors: James Muro
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Synapse Films
Release Date: July 9, 2013
Run Time: 102 minutes

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

I grew up watching Troma movies (and even appeared in one of them) at a way to young age. So growing up in the 80’s I was in love with the horror genre and all the “trash” that came out of it. “Street Trash” is a very unique film, since it aims to offend so much with its super-gore and bad taste but it ends up only entertaining. The special effects are all practical and really make me yearn for those days when everything wasn’t digital. There was a lot of hard work that went into making this film, especially on a low-budget and it is just pain fun. In the world of reboots and remakes, it is great to see something truly original. This is definitely not for the squeamish but highly recommend for all hardcore horrorhounds.

Official Premise: In the sleazy, foreboding world of winos, derelicts and drifters in lower Manhattan, two young runaways eighteen-year-old Fred (Mike Lackey) and his younger brother, Kevin (Mark Sferrazza) live in a tire hut in the back of an auto wrecking yard. Life is hard, but the most lethal threat to the boys is the mysterious case of Tenafly Viper wine in Ed’s liquor store window. The stuff is forty years old… and it’s gone bad. REAL bad! Anyone who drinks it melts in seconds, and it’s only a dollar a bottle!

Synapse Films has beautifully re-mastered this film in high-definition and gave it the love and attention that it deserves. The 1080p transfer with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio presentation is very sharp and for a low-budget movie from the ’80s looks just plain awesome. It was taken from original camera negative and was meticulously restored. The colors in this film are very key and they really pop with this new transfer. The film has a certain cartoon feel to it and this really extenuates that positive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also impressive. It works very well with the dialogue and especially with the Vietnam War flashback. This track was created specifically for home theater systems and it sounds great. This is easily one of the best Synapse Films in the recent years.

Synapse went all out with the extras included the ability to create your own bottle of Tenafly Viper Wine with an exclusive label sticker included. The special features are stunning like the film itself. There are two commentary track included. The first is with writer/producer Roy Frumkes, which is super informative and fun. The second is with director James Muro, it is more technical and a little drier but still a tons of great info. “The Meltdown Memoirs” is an epic two plus hour multi-part documentary that really encompasses all aspects of the production. There is the original 16mm short film “Street Trash”, which inspired the film.
There is an “Interview with Jane Arakawa” from 2007 sharing her experience making “Street Trash”. Lastly, there are a few Deleted Scenes and Outtakes, as well as Promotional Teaser and Theatrical Trailer included.

 

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CD/DVD Review “Ghost Brothers of Darkland County (Deluxe Edition)”

Stephen King, John Mellencamp, T Bone Burnett
Ghost Brothers of Darkland County
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Number of Discs: 2
Label: Concord Music Group

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Ghost Brothers of Darkland County” is a very unique release. It comes from the great talented minds of Stephen King, John Mellencamp and T Bone Burnett. It was originally a musical stage performance, which was performed in Atlanta in April of 2012. So what is this actually? It is a libretto of the acclaimed Southern Gothic supernatural musical. It is a mix of dialogue tracks, written by King with music by some amazing musicians including Elvis Costello, Neko Case, Sheryl Crow, Ryan Bingam, Kristofferson and Rosanne Cash…just to name a few. Costello and Kristofferson also take on characters in between the songs, along with Meg Ryan, Samantha Mathis and Matthew McConaughey. Can you believe the talent attached to this! It is very well put together and draws you in just like one of King’s novels.  The music is seamless with the dialogue and together they really create a creepy atmosphere.

Official Premise: Set in the tiny town of Lake Belle Reve, Mississippi, the Ghost Brothers’ story centers on two sets of brothers: the ghosts of Jack and Andy, dead in an apparent murder/suicide, and their nephews, the living Frank and Drake, who seem to be headed toward the same downward spiral as their uncles. Joe, younger brother of Jack and Andy, father of Frank and Drake, has decided it’s time to reveal his own terrible secret at the site of the tragedy, before it’s too late.

This deluxe edition comes with a two disc set, one CD and one DVD.  The DVD contains a bunch of great behind the scenes content and features the songs and interviews with Stephen King, John Mellencamp, and Musical Director, T Bone Burnett. The following three featurettes are included “A Look Behind Ghost Brothers of Darkland County”, “Truth In Studio” and “Libretto”. The DVD also comes with a digital copy of the libretto.  There is also a pamphlet included with the set for an MP3 download of just the music. I was also impressive with the fact that this deluxe edition also comes with the complete lyrics and script from the CD tracks…and it looks very sharp as well. I highly recommend this for country music fans and of course the words of the great Stephen King.

Track Listing:
1. Introduction By The Zydeco Cowboy
2. That s Me (Performed by Elvis Costello)
3. Anna and Frank Badmouthing Drake
4. That s Who I Am (Performed by Neko Case)
5. The Ghosts Argue and Fight
6. So Goddam Smart (Performed by Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin, Sheryl Crow)
7. Monique and Anna Meet
8. Wrong, Wrong, Wrong About Me (Performed by Elvis Costello)
9. Frank and Drake Argue
10. Brotherly Love (Performed by Ryan Bingham, Will Dailey)
11. Monique, Frank, Drake, and Anna Argue
12. How Many Days (Performed by Kris Kristofferson)
13. The Ghosts Talk (Dialog Underscoring: Patrick Fleming)
14. Home Again (Performed by Sheryl Crow, Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin, Taj Mahal)
15. Monique Comforts Drake
16. You Are Blind (Performed by Ryan Bingham)
17. Joe Begins To Tell His Story
18. Tear This Cabin Down (Performed by Taj Mahal)
19. Joe Continues His Story
20. My Name Is Joe (Performed by Clyde Mulroney)
21. Jenna Expresses Her Feelings
22. Away From This World (Performed by Sheryl Crow)
23. Monique Frustrated With The Boys
24. You Don t Know Me (Performed by Rosanne Cash)
25. Joe Continues As The Ghosts Observe (Dialog Underscoring: Patrick Fleming)
26. And Your Days Are Gone (Performed by Sheryl Crow, Dave Alvin, Phil Alvin)
27. Jack And Andy Fight Over Jenna
28. Jukin (Performed by Sheryl Crow)
29. Jack And Andy Argue And Fight
30. So Goddam Good (Performed by Phil Alvin, Dave Alvin, Sheryl Crow)
31. Joe Talks With His Younger Self
32. What Kind Of Man Am I (Performed by Kris Kristofferson, Phil Alvin, Sheryl Crow, Dave Alvin, Taj Mahal)
33. The Shape Sums Things Up
34. Truth (Performed by John Mellencamp with Lily and Madeleine Jurkiewicz)
35. Joe Talks With The Bartender

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Star Wars’ Jar Jar Binks Limited Edition MIMOBOT Giveaway [ENDED]

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

Media Mikes would like to giveaway the following a LIMITED EDITION Jar Jar Binks Designer USB Flash Drives from Mimco’s “Star Wars” series. If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email indicating your what “Star Wars” character would you like to see Mimoco make into a MIMOBOT. This giveaway will remain open until August 23rd at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to all fans of Media Mikes, worldwide!! One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email.

Yes, Mimoco turned the character with the worst memory in the Star Wars universe into a memory storage device! It’s in Jar Jar’s nature to blaze trails, just as he was the first of his kind to sit and serve on the Galactic senate, Binks, a member of the Gungan race – those amphibious humanoid-frog creatures, now joins esteemed Star Wars characters like Darth Vader, R2-D2, C-3PO, and a Stormtrooper in MIMOBOT form and function.

Jar Jar finally takes his place in the MIMOBOT collection as an ultra limited edition (only 500 pieces!) one year after Mimoco announced him as an April Fool’s joke.



.

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Star Trek’s Mr. Sulu Limited Edition MIMOBOT Giveaway [ENDED]

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

Media Mikes would like to giveaway the following a LIMITED EDITION Mr. Sulu Designer USB Flash Drives from Mimco’s “Star Trek” series. If you would like to enter for your chance to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email indicating your what “Star Trek” character would you like to see Mimoco make into a MIMOBOT. This giveaway will remain open until August 23rd at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to all fans of Media Mikes, worldwide!! One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email.

Mr.Sulu MIMOBOT®, a limited edition of just 1,000 hand-numbered pieces, joins Spock, Kirk, Picard and Data in MIMOBOT flash drive form and function. Sulu, the suave helmsman on the Enterprise as portrayed by actor George Takei in Star Trek: The Original Series, is brought to digital life in Mimoco’s stylized MIMOBOT appearance, suited in Sulu’s gold Enterprise command uniform. Sulu is a jack-of-all-trades who climbed the Starfleet ranks from lieutenant to captain, dabbled in botany and astrophysics, and now adds storing your data to his lengthy resume.

Available in up to 128GB and USB 3.0 capabilities, Sulu MIMOBOT also comes preloaded with bonus Mimory® and the MimoDesk® personalization suite of wallpapers, icons and avatars. It also comes equipped with MimoByte® sound software powered with an offering of iconic Star Trek sounds and Sulu character dialogue that plays each time Sulu MIMOBOT is inserted or ejected from one’s computer.


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Blu-ray Review “The Muppet Movie: The Nearly 35th Anniversary Edition”

Actors: Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson, Richard Hunt, Dave Goelz
Directors: James Frawley
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Run Time: 95 minutes

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

Who doesn’t love The Muppets! Like many, I grew up watching the Muppets and have already loved their “The Muppet Movie”. Disney is releasing this film for the first time on Blu-ray in it’s Nearly 35th Anniversary Edition (34 years technically). This is the first and probably the best Muppets feature film to date. It stars Kermit and the Gang, Austin Pendleton, Charles Durning, Mel Brooks and Dom DeLuise. It is also jam packed with great cameos including Steve Martin, Richard Pryor, Bob Hope, Orson Welles, James Coburn, Elliott Gould, Carol Kane, Madeline Kahn and Cloris Leachman. After nearly 35 years, this film is just as entertaining and a pleasure to revisit with the family. It has great movie and will guarantee a smile be put on your face! Plus with the The Muppets’ new movie, “Muppets Most Wanted” in theatres March 21, 2014, they are hotter than ever!

Official Premise: Celebrate the Nearly 35th Anniversary of the ultimate frogs-to-riches story with the one that started it all: The Muppet Movie. From the very first “plunk!” of Kermit’s banjo playing “The Rainbow Connection” (Oscar nominee, Best Original Song, 1979), to the hysterical road trip that brings the fearless frog together with Fozzie, Gonzo, Animal and most importantly of all, Miss Piggy, join the jam-packed heartwarming hilarity, outrageous antics and big-shot Hollywood cameos.

Disney brings this film on Blu-ray in a nice combo pack with a digital copy included, which can be redeemed to Vudu or Amazon Instant Video. I am very excited that Disney is finally getting away from the physical digital copy discs and jumping on the streaming digital copy bandwagon. “The Muppet Movie” has never looked better, its 1080p transfer is gorgeous. Any fan of this movie should be blown away at how impressive it looks. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also sounds amazing and works very well with the music in the film like “The Rainbow Connection”, very impressive.

The special features included on this release are a must-watch as well. Firstly, there is director “Jim Frawley’s Extended Camera, which includes previously unseen footage. This is a must watch for any fan of the film. “Interactive Disney Intermission, Starring the Muppets” is a great new feature that really encourages extended and numerous bathroom breaks. Disney has actually made pausing the movie cool with great in-between footage that will entertain along with the film. There is featurette included for Pepe Profiles – “Kermit: A Frog’s Life”. There is an all-new Interactive Frog-E-Oke Sing-Along, which is a ton of fun as wel. Lastly there is a Doc Hooper’s Commercial and Original Trailers included. Left me feeling very satisfied here!

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Blu-ray Review “Oliver & Company: 25th Anniversary Edition”

Actors: Billy Joel, Joey Lawrence, Robert Loggia, Cheech Marin, Dom DeLuise
Directors: Dan Hansen, George Scribner
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 74 minutes

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

“Oliver & Company” and I go way back.  Back in 1988, I begged my  folks to see the film in the theaters but ended up missing out (due to my little sister – and I have never let her live it down since, 25 years later – insert maniacal laugh!) So I had to wait till the 1996 re-release to finally see this film and loved it (of course). In today’s standards, it is not the best thing to ever come out of Disney’s animation studio but it is fun and has some great music. It does features a great and talent voice cast including Joey Lawrence, Billy Joel, Dom DeLuise, Cheech Marin, Bette Midler and Robert Loggia. To be honest, I enjoy watching this on high-def Blu-ray but like “The Sword and the Stone”, it was not really up to Disney Blu-ray standards. I would recommend for fans of the film and though crazy Disney fanatics.

Disney has been releasing all the animated classics in their library recently onto Blu-ray. Along with this, “The Sword in the Stone” (1963) and and “Robin Hood” (1973) were released as well. In fact after looking into it they should be coming to an end shortly with only fourteen more theatrically released Disney Animated Classics left with two more set for this year alone. Next up we have “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and “The Little Mermaid”.

Official Premise: Celebrate the 25th anniversary of a Disney classic with the stunning Blu-ray debut of Oliver And Company, featuring perfect picture and sound. Relive this charming animated adventure, packed with excitement, fun and unforgettable songs by Billy Joel, Bette Midler and Huey Lewis. In the heart of New York City, Oliver, a mischievous orphaned kitten, is befriended by Dodger, a carefree pooch and his ragtag family of misfit mutts. Life gets even better for Oliver when he is adopted by a lonely little girl named Jenny. But when tough guy Sykes and his Doberman sidekicks try to keep Jenny and Oliver apart, the spirited kitten and his newfound friends discover the meaning of courage and find a home where they truly belong.

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD but unlike “The Sword in the Stone” (1963) and and “Robin Hood” (1973) there is no digital copy included. I guess since this is only celebrating it’s 25th anniversary it didn’t deserve it. Who knows why. Similiar to “The Sword in the Stone”, this release didn’t really wow me. The 1080p transfer looks good in parts but terrible in others.  The colors well represented though, I just feel like they overdid it on the restoration.  This film was never perfect in terms of its animation and maybe they would have been better off leaving some of those endearing imperfections. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track does delivers with the dialogue, action and fun music from Billy Joel, Betty Midler and Huey Lewis.

The special features are ok but not really anniversary special. First off, we get a vintage behind-the-scenes look with “The Making of Oliver and Company”. There is another featurette called “Disney’s Animated Animals”, which talks about created our furry friends. There is also an alternate ending included. There is a sing-along mode for the film’s six fun songs. There is a bonus shorts including “Lend A Paw” and “Puss Café”. Lastly there is a TV spot, a theatrical trailer and re-release trailers.

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Blu-ray Review “Robin Hood: 40th Anniversary Edition”

Actors: Brian Bedford, Pat Buttram, Andy Devine, Monica Evans, Phil Harris
Directors: Wolfgang Reitherman
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Video
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

Disney’s “Robin Hood” is not one of the biggest classics to have come out of Disney but I have always loved this film.  The story, the characters, the music! Roger Miller some of the most fun and catchy songs for the film. I recently watched this film on Disney Channel and much to my surprise I felt like I had just watched it the day before. My 14 month old daughter also had a blast watching this film and couldn’t take her eyes off the screen. Disney did a good job with this release and gave it the love that it deserves. Fans of this film should not miss this Blu-ray release, it is a must. Oo-De-Lally, Oo-De-Lally, Oo-De-Lally, what a release.

Disney has been releasing all the animated classics in their library recently onto Blu-ray. Along with this, “The Sword in the Stone” (1963) and and “Oliver & Company” (1988) were released as well. In fact after looking into it they should be coming to an end shortly with only fourteen more theatrically released Disney Animated Classics left with two more set for this year alone. Next up we have “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and “The Little Mermaid”.

Official Premise: To commemorate its 40th anniversary, Disney proudly presents the unforgettable animated classic Robin Hood on Blu-ray for the first time ever. Experience all the fun, thrills and celebrated music of this legendary adventure with perfect picture and sound! Join Robin Hood, his trusted companion Little John and his hilarious band of Merry Men as they outfox greedy Prince John to save the good people of Nottingham. Dashing from one daring deed to the next, Robin won’t rest until he wins the hand of Maid Marian and restores King Richard to the throne. One of Disney’s most beloved movies is even better on Blu-ray Combo Pack!

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD and digital copy included. Unlike “The Sword in the Stone”, this release delivers the goods. The 1080p transfer makes this film look better than it ever has.  The colors are really sharp and the line details are impressive as well. Disney gets a big thumbs up on this restoration job. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track also delivers with the sharp with dialogue and Miller’s tunes.

The special features are pretty good as well with a few nice high-def extras. First off, we get a never-before-seen deleted storyline presented with black and white storyboards. There is also an alternate ending included. There are four isolated songs from the film including “Oo-De-Lally,” “Love,” “The Phony King of England” and “Not in Nottingham”, as well as sing alongs. There is an behind the scenes look at the original artwork with a nice gallery of images. There is a fun read along for kids with the “Robin Hood Storybook”, runs about 15 minutes. Lastly, there is a bonus short film “Ye Olden Days” starring Mickey Mouse.

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Blu-ray Review “The Sword in the Stone: 50th Anniversary Edition”

Actors: Ricky Sorenson, Karl Swenson, Norman Alden, Sebastian Cabot, Martha Wentworth
Directors: Wolfgang Reitherman
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 79 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

Growing up, my sister and I just to watch “The Sword in the Stone” quite a bit and it was always one of our favorites. It has been many years since I’ve seen the film and yet it is still as ever entertaining. I was very impressed to find that I know (somehow) recall all the lyrics to the fun songs like “Higitus Figitus”. The music in this film is so great, I forgot how much I love the score. One thing I can’t come to terms with is the fact that this film is already 50 years old, that just blows my mind. Having watching this as a kid, to now have a daughter of my own, I can’t wait to share this with her.

Disney has been releasing all the animated classics in their library recently onto Blu-ray. Along with this, “Robin Hood” (1973) and and “Oliver & Company” (1988) were released as well. In fact after looking into it they should be coming to an end shortly with only fourteen more theatrically released Disney Animated Classics left with two more set for this year alone. Next up we have “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and “The Little Mermaid”.

Official Premise: Disney proudly presents the 50th anniversary edition of a spellbinding and beloved animated classic. Conjure up magical family fun with the humor, adventure, and Academy Award-nominated music (best score – adaptation or treatment, 1963) of The Sword In The Stone – on DVD and now on Blu-ray combo pack for the first time ever! Take an amazing journey with a young orphan named “Wart” and the extraordinary wizard Merlin. According to legend, only someone with the purest character and inner strength can pull the enchanted sword from the stone and claim the throne of England. Armed with newfound confidence and the power of friendship, Wart discovers his destiny and learns the best magic is the kind you find inside yourself!

Disney is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD and digital copy included. I have to admit though, I am a little disappointed in the release overall. The 1080p transfer is not the best, especially coming from Disney. I know the film is 50 years old but I am not sure how much restoration (if any) they did to this film since it looks a little iffy. Overall, it is still very enjoyable and a big improvement from past DVDs but not what I expected from in terms of Blu-ray standards. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track delivers at least very well, especially with the music and action.

Back to disappointing again with the special features. Come on Disney, this is for the 50th anniversary, where are the new and exciting extras? The only new feature is a never-before-seen alternate opening presented in black and white storyboards. “Music Magic: The Sherman Brothers” discuss about the men behind the films music. There is a short excerpt from “All About Magic”, hosted by Walt Disney. There are two classic animated shorts including “A Knight for a Day” and “Brave Little Tailor.” Lastly, there is a sing along with the movie, done in karaoke style.

 

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“The Dark Knight Trilogy: Ultimate Collector’s Edition” Blu-ray Debut September 24

All Three Films, New Special Features, and Memorabilia 

Burbank, Calif. July 1, 2013 – Christopher Nolan’s reimagining of the Batman franchise beginning with 2005’s Batman Begins enjoyed phenomenal critical and box-office success.

Now on September 24, Nolan’s three Batman films – Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Knight Rises – will be released by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment as The Dark Knight Trilogy: Ultimate Collector’s Edition. The six-disc set will feature all three films with their existing extra content, two new featurettes and exclusive new collectible memorabilia. This must-own collection for fans of DC Comics’ Caped Crusader is available in premium packaging and will sell for $99.97 SRP.

About the Ultimate Collector’s Edition (UCE):

  *Disc 1 – Batman Begins Feature and Special Features

  *Disc 2 – The Dark Knight Feature

  *Disc 3 – The Dark Knight Special Features

  *Disc 4 – The Dark Knight Rises Feature

  *Disc 5 – The Dark Knight Rises Special Features

  *Disc 6 – Bonus Disc of New Special Features (details follow)

 

NEW Special Features:

  • The Fire Rises: The Creation and Impact of The Dark Knight Trilogy – The inside perspective on the fascinating story behind the creation of one of the most celebrated franchises and how it changed the scope of movie making….forever.  Full of never-before-seen footage, rare moments, and exclusive interviews with  Guillermo Del Toro, Damon Lindelof, Michael Mann, Richard Roeper, Zack Snyder and others.
  • Christopher Nolan & Richard Donner: A Conversation – For the first time, Directors Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight Trilogy) and Richard Donner (Superman) sit down to discuss the trials and triumphs involved in bringing the two most iconic superheroes of all time to the big screen, and how Superman influenced Nolan when developing Batman Begins.
  • IMAX® Sequences: The Dark Knight; The Dark Knight Rises – See your favorite scenes as they were intended in the original IMAX© aspect ratio

 

Exclusive NEW Memorabilia:

  • Premium Mattel Hot Wheels Vehicles: Batmobile, Batpod and Tumbler
  • Newly commissioned collectible art cards by Mondo featuring Scarecrow, Joker, Bane, Harvey Dent, and Ra’s al Ghul
  • 48-page hardcover book featuring production stills and behind the scenes images from all three movies

 

About The Films

Batman Begins (2005)

Batman Begins explores the origins of the Batman legend and the Dark Knight’s emergence as a force for good in Gotham. In the wake of his parents’ murder, disillusioned industrial heir Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) travels the world seeking the means to fight injustice and turn fear against those who prey on the fearful. He returns to Gotham and unveils his alter-ego: Batman, a masked crusader who uses his strength, intellect and an array of high tech deceptions to fight the sinister forces that threaten the city.

 

The Dark Knight (2008)

The follow-up to Batman Begins, The Dark Knight reunites director Christopher Nolan and star Christian Bale, who reprises the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne in his continuing war on crime. With the help of Lt. Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman) and District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), Batman sets out to destroy organized crime in Gotham for good. The triumvirate proves effective, but soon find themselves prey to a rising criminal mastermind known as The Joker (Heath Ledger), who thrusts Gotham into anarchy and forces Batman closer to crossing the fine line between hero and vigilante. Maggie Gyllenhaal joins the cast as Rachel Dawes. Returning from Batman Begins are Oldman, Michael Caine as Alfred and Morgan Freeman as Lucius Fox.

 

Dark Knight Rises (2012)

It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act.

But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane. Christian Bale stars, along with Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy, Marion Cotillard, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Morgan Freeman.

 

THE DARK KNIGHT TRILOGY: ULTIMATE COLLECTOR’S EDITION (BD)

Street Date: September 24, 2013

Order Due Date: August 20, 2013

Catalog/UPC #: 1000372133 / 883929308002

Pricing: $99.97 SRP

Note: All enhanced content listed above is subject to change.

 

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“Blu-ray Review “The Howling: Collector’s Edition”

Actors: Dee Wallace Stone, Patrick Macnee, Dennis Dugan, Christopher Stone, Belinda Belaski
Directors: Joe Dante
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

When it comes to “The Howling” it is considered one of the greatest werewolf films. It also features on of the best transformation scenes during its time, along with “An American Werewolf in London”. The practical effects are nothing short of amazing and a must see if you have never experienced it. I miss these days where everything wasn’t CGI.  Believe it or not this film also spawned seven sequels a crappy high school reboot. “The Howling” stars the amazing and lovely Dee Wallace and if you grew up with this film, what guy didn’t have a crush on Elisabeth Brooks? Am I right? Horrorhounds should be very excited with this release and just wait to you see the special features!

Official Premise: From the director of “Gremlins” and “Piranha” comes the ultimate masterpiece of primal terror. Severely traumatized by a near-fatal encounter with a serial killer, TV newscaster Karen White (Dee Wallace) takes time off at a secluded retreat called “The Colony.” But when, after nights of being tormented by bestial, bloodcurdling cries, Karen ventures into the woods seeking answers, she makes a terrifying discovery. Now she must fight not only for her life but for her soul!

Unlike with the recent “Lifeforce” transfer approved and worked on by Tobe Hopper himself, Scream Factory packed the 1080p transfer in 1.86:1 from previously released European Blu-ray. Don’t get me wrong it is still pretty sharp and looks great. “The Howling” includes a brand new DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track along with the original mono track as a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. I have to admit, the 5.1 track is quite epic, especially with the transformation scenes. Pino Donaggio’s score also is complemented very well. I was a little upset that this “Collector’s Edition” is Blu-ray only unlike the recent “Lifeforce” Blu-ray which is a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. But they make it up with their amazing special features.

There are tons of speicWith “Howlings Eternal with Steven A. Lane” we get some back story from the executive producer. “Cut to Shreds with Editor Mark Goldblatt” gives us the scare techniques used in the film. “Interview with Co-writer Terrence Winkless” gets some insight on the film’s writting process. “Horror’s Hallowed Ground: A Look at the Film’s Locations” is hosted by Sean Clark as he tours the film’s shooting locations. “Making a Monster Movie: Inside The Howling” is a cool behind-the-scenes vintage featurette. “Interview with Stop Motion Animator David Allen” is a look into the special effects. “Unleashing the Beast – The Making of The Howling” is an in-depth feature look into werewolf mythology.

Next up are the commentary tracks, which there are two included. The first is with director Joe Dante, Dee Wallace, Christopher Stone and Robert Picardo. It is not a new track but still great to hear Christopher Stone again (R.I.P). The next audio commentary is with author Gary Brandner, which is a new commentary hosted by Red Shirt Productions’ Michael Felsher. I was not a big fan of this track and definitely still prefer the first over it. Lastly included there are a few Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary, some Outtakes, a Theatrical Trailer and a Photo Gallery included.

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Blu-ray Review “Lifeforce: Collector’s Edition”

Actors: Steve Railsback, Peter Firth, Frank Finlay, Mathilda May, Patrick Stewart
Directors: Tobe Hooper
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: June 18, 2013
Run Time: 101 / 116 minutes

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

Based on Colin Wilson’s novel “The Space Vampires”, “Lifeforce” is Tobe Hopper’s first shot a big-budget film. For the most part, the film is visually amazing and still holds up, thanks to Academy Awardwinner John Dykstra (1977 Best Visual Effects, “Star Wars”). Fans can rejoice that this new Blu-ray transfer was actually overseen by Hooper himself, which is pretty cool (more on that below). It also stars the smoking hot, Mathilda May, who looks amazing in HD, especially she is naked for the majority of the film. The final act of “Lifeforce” is where the film really looses me but overall it still holds up for the most part. Also This Blu-ray contains both the theatrical cut and the director approved extended cut. Horrorhounds and fans of this film should be thrilled with this release. Did I mention that Mathilda May is very easy on the eyes?

Official Premise: A mission to investigate Halley’s Comet discovers an even stranger phenomenon: an alien spacecraft! Following a deadly confrontation, the aliens arrive on Earth, where their seductive leader begins a terrifying campaign to drain the lifeforce of everyone she encounters. Her victims, in turn, continue the cycle, and soon the entire planet is in mortal danger. And when the mission’s sole survivor (Steve Railsback) sets out to destroy her, he comes face to face with the most charming – and horrifying – being he’s ever known. Will he be able to destroy the lovely vampiress…or will he become yet another victim of her fatal charm.

Scream Factory delivered this film with a very sharp and clever 1080p transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1. Like I said above, Hooper oversaw this restoration and high definition transfer upgrade. He also states in the commentary track that he personally worked on the color timing in order to get it to his original vision. “Lifeforce” features two audio tracks, a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 tracks. Henry Mancini’s kick-ass score, though only in whole on the director’s cut. The theatrical release cut differs with cutting out some of the erotic content and also some slight differences in the music. Also the theatrical cut only packs a pretty weak Dolby Digital 5.1 track.

The special features are equally as impressive as the Blu-ray transfer. There is a commentary with Director Tobe Hooper, moderated Tim Sullivan (director of “2001 Maniacs”). Highly recommended for any fan of this film. There is another commentary track with Make-Up Effects Designer Nick Maley and hosted by Michael Felcher, decent but doesn’t compare to the first. “Dangerous Beauty with Mathilda May” is a great interview with the still stunning actress. “Space Vampires in London with Tobe Hooper” is a feature focusing on the novel. “Carlsen’s Curse with Steve Railsback” has the actor looking into the film. Lastly there is a Vintage Making of Lifeforce, Theatrical Trailers, TV Spot and a Still Gallery included.

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