Film Review “That Demon Within”

Starring: Daniel Wu and Nick Cheung
Directed by: Dante Lam
Not Rated
Running time: 1 hour 52 mins
China Lion Films

In Cantonese with English subtitles

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

During a daring daytime robbery, the police and bad guys are shooting it out in the middle of a busy street packed with bystanders. When one of the bags of money falls open into the street, one of the robbers notices a black velvet bag spilled into the street. Looking down incredulously he asks, “are those diamonds?” Thus begins one of the best action films (and psychological thrillers) I’ve watched in a very long time.

Dave Wong (Wu) is a dutiful cop. As we learn more about him we find that he became a cop in order to give his life an almost calm normalcy. While in the emergency room of a local hospital Dave learns that a badly injured man needs blood. Feeling it is part of his job to protect the people he gladly donates. It is only later, when he finds that the man he helped was the mastermind of the robbery, that things begin to spiral downward, especially after he is chastised for his good deed by his superiors. Dave begins to recede into his old self, often hallucinating that he and the crime boss are the same person. He is self absorbed in his own world, where fiery images dominate his thoughts. As his guilt progresses Dave slides deeper and deeper into an abyss he may not be able to escape.

I am a huge fan of director Dante Lam, especially his 2012 film “The Viral Factor.” He brings to the screen an amazing combination of John Woo’s visual flair and Martin Scorsese’s story detail. This film is no exception. As the film moves along
as we move along in Dave Wong’s world, we begin to put ourselves in his shoes. These moments blend in perfectly with some of the most amazing action sequences I’ve seen on screen in years. While watching this film I kept thinking this would be a great story for Scorsese to tackle, as he did in 2006 when he turned “Infernal Affairs” into the Oscar-winning “The Departed.”

The film is also helped by a strong script and an even stronger cast. As Officer Wong, Wu is mesmerizing. Deep down he’s a good man who wants to do good things. However, the demons that haunt him, from his past and from the present, conspire to knock him down. The film rests solely on his shoulders and he carries the load with seeming ease. If you’re looking for a wild ride during this calm holiday weekend, you can’t do any better than “That Demon Within.”

“That Demon Within” opens today in select North American cities, including Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto and Washington D.C.

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Film Review “Heaven Is For Real”

Starring: Greg Kinnear, Kelly Reilly and Thomas Haden Church
Directed by: Randall Wallace
Rated: PG
Running time: 1 hour 40 mins
Sony Pictures

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

“Heaven Is For Real” is a film that absolutely knows its audience. And while I am not part of that particular audience, I can acknowledge how easy it is to like this movie. Based on the novel of the same name, this film is the story of the Burpos; a middle-class family from a small town in Nebraska. Todd Burpo (Kinnear) is the patriarch of the family and the main character. He is your genuine, Midwestern, all-American father; Pastor of his church, a volunteer firefighter, he works a full-time job and plays on the softball team. Yet, despite his busy life, his family is struggling financially. Those financial troubles are made worse when Todd’s youngest son, Colton (Connor Corum) is suddenly taken to the hospital. While being operated upon he claims to have visited Heaven. As if to prove his claim, he recalls seeing his parents doing things he was not around to see and visiting relatives of his that he had never met nor heard of.

Based on a real life event, I will say that I do believe that the Burpo family believes Colton’s story. However, if I only had this film to go on I don’t think I would be as convinced. The story is told in such a ham-fisted way that, to me, the storytelling ruins the story. The first act is comprised of almost nothing but scenes that set-up the next scene, only to have the following scene mirror the previous one. All of the actors are likable enough – as are their characters – although I noticed a lack of chemistry between Kinnear and Kelly Reilly, who plays his wife, Sonja. Not only did I not find them a convincing married couple, I actually found it hard to accept Reilly as a Midwestern housewife. The cast does a credible job but I just found the story too contrived. The one performance I did enjoy was delivered by young Connor Corum. He’s cute and funny and does not come across like a typical child actor. His performance kept me watching, along with the beautiful Midwestern scenery.

The film suffers from being overly melodramatic. So much is thrown at this family in the first half that it weighs the story down. The trials that this family goes through, when added to some clichĂ©d characters, gives the film the appearance of a fictional, scripted story, not a film dealing with real events. A main flaw is the constant highlighting of the family’s financial situation. No doubt it was part of the story, but the film never does resolve the situation. As far as the audience knows, when the film is over, the Burpos are still deep in debt with no way out.

It’s also worth noting that the film is heavily steeped with religious overtones and images; primarily those of the Christian faith. While that may be perfect for the people who purchased and enjoyed the book or for a sponsored Christian audience, it may be off-putting to those with either a different belief or none at all. On the positive side, I commend the filmmakers for not toning down the religious themes to reach a wider audience. This film will reach its intended audience and they should receive it well.

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Film Review “Under the Skin”

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy McWilliams and Lynsey Taylor Mackay
Directed By: Jonathan Glazer
Rated: R
Running Time: 108 minutes
A24 Studios

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Jonathan Glazer must have taken a course on Kubrick and fallen in love with his haunting style. That’s the only way I can describe the bizarre first couple of minutes of “Under the Skin” with its foreboding soundtrack and look straight out of “2001: A Space Odyssey”. Just like “2001”, it may take years for people to appreciate the visually eerie and unsettling feast that “Under the Skin” is. While it may seem like a simplistic tale of an alien luring men for nefarious reasons, there is a sense of fondness that slowly creeps in as the movie progresses.

The unnamed alien assumes the skin of an attractive female (Johannson). She drives across the murky land of Scotland in a full sized white van, constantly stopping to ask for directions to men walking on the street, hoping that maybe they’re heading the same way. That’s so she can offer a ride and seduce them into coming back to her place. From the outside, her “home” appears like any other shabby flat, but on the inside it’s a glassy room devoid of color. Pitch black liquid allowing us to only see the lioness and her victim, her articles of clothing slowly being peeled off while the man can’t get his off quick enough. She lures them across the vast emptiness while the nude men slowly sink into the floor and into their demise.

“Under the Skin” never touches upon the existential questions that surround our alien. Why is this thing here? What exactly does it do with the victims? While these are interesting questions, the movie focuses more on the alien living in the human skin. Suddenly our alien from another planet is fascinated by its skin, possibly absorbing the thoughts and feelings of the predecessor that lived and breathed in its flesh. Those stale eyes that stared blankly at everything earlier in the movie now show fear, concern and sympathy. She goes from stalking prey to looking in scared wonder at the human experience.

Our alien rarely talks and only shifts from sexual visual cues to facial twitches of emotions. Despite the vast amounts of graphic nudity, it never feels or looks sexual in nature. The vibes radiating around the alien or the victims appear to be predatorial. Even later in the movie, bare in front of a mirror, it appears to be entranced by the muscle and tissue it stretched over itself. Johannson’s abilities as an actress really shine here as she remains mute while conveying the inner workings of our creature. Oddly enough no one ever becomes suspicious during the 108 minutes that something might be off with this girl.

It’s a fascinating movie to watch because we never feel comfortable enough to relax throughout the first half and in the second half we’re constantly questioning along with this being. There’s a key turning point that I don’t want to give away and it’s definitely one of the more awkward, unsettling moments. What makes the scene so important is that we go from an unnerving first act to a curious second half. Plot points are told through scenes that constantly perturb the audience. Accompany that with the fact there’s little dialogue, it can be a very alienating film for general audiences. Don’t listen to any dissenters; this is definitely the most visually striking sci-fi movie of the year.

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CD Review: Whitechapel “Our Endless War”

“Our Endless War”
Whitechapel
Metal Blade Records
Produced by: Mark Lewis
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Returning with the fifth full-length of their decimating career, there is no stopping the juggernaut that is Whitechapel. The album titled “Our Endless War” is the culmination of everything the band from Knoxville, TN has worked toward since their inception in 2006. The album is being released via Metal Blade Records and features 12 ruthless tracks produced by Mark Lewis.

The newest album from Whitechapel is everything you have come to love about the band while taking it a step further. The group has forged new ground with this release elevating them to the next level of heavy metal music mastery. From the albums opening instrumental track “Rise” which subtlety builds before giving way to the album’s explosive title track “Our Endless War” which is instantly kicked into gear by singer Phil Bozeman’s guttural vocals. The album features some really great instrumentation which I felt showcased each of the members the bands growth as musicians.

Probably my favorite track off the release is the track titled “The Saw is the Law” as it features a pounding rhythm section and fast paced, demonic like vocal rants that instantly grab your attention. Other notable tracks were “Psychopathy” which features an intro ala Ozzy Osbourne’s “Diary of a Madman” while one of the albums bonus tracks titled “Fall of the Hypocrites” is about as heavy as you can get as the songs shear power could literally blasts you across the room when turned up load enough.

Track Listing:
1.) Rise
2.) Our Endless War
3.) The Saw is the Law
4.) Mono
5.) Let Me Burn
6.) Worship the Digital Age
7.) How Times Have Changed
8.) Psychopathy
9.) Blacked Out
10.) Diggs Road
11.) A Process so Familiar (Bonus Track)
12.) Fall of Hypocrites (Bonus Track)

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Theatre Review “Jersey Boys” Bob Carr Performing Arts Center – Orlando, FL

“Jersey Boys”
Bob Carr Performing Arts Center
Orlando, FL
April 15 – 27, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Jersey Boys” premiered on Broadway back in 2005 and won a Tony for Best Musical the following year. I have seen many Broadway shows growing up and living in New York but I never did see “Jersey Boys”. Luckily living in Orlando, FL now I am still able to see Broadway quality shows at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center. “Jersey Boys” is the latest show making its limited engagement during its national tour at this theatre.

I have always been a huge Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons fan and have seen them many times live over the years. I thought it was time to catch this show to see what all the fuss was about, especially being a huge fan of the music already. Well I didn’t just enjoy the play I absolutely loved it. I found myself moving my feet along with music and singing under my breath (sometimes louder)…and I wasn’t the only one.

Now obviously, I can’t compare the performances to the Broadway cast since I have never saw it but if I could I am sure that this National tour cast would really give them a very strong run. I was extremely impressed with Hayden Milanes in the role of Frankie Valli, that with an “I” not a “Y” because everyone knows “Y” is a bullshit letter. The guy has a voice of angel (sound familiar?) and really nailed this role. Nicholas Dromard was perfect as Tommy DeVito and really had the audience by the balls like woman type number 1 (or was it number 2?)

Quinn Vanantwerp was funny, charming and very charismatic. I really enjoyed his performance of Bob Gaudio. I am sure Bob himself would be impressed. Last but definitely not least Adam Zelakso playing Nick Massi was the quite one but delivered a surprising end performance and I am glad he didn’t start his own band. Adam will also be appearing in Clint Eastwood’s film adaptation of this play, though in a different role, which comes in this June in theaters (and I will be first in line for this movie). I also never knew that THE Joe Pecsi was involved with crew, you learn something new everyday.

Let’s get back to the music now. Oh the music…so many amazing tracks sung during this show. If you are a Frank Valli and the Four Seasons fan how can you not be screaming along from your seat to hits like “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like A Man”, “Sherry”, “Earth Angel”, “December 1963 (Oh, What A Night)”, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, “My Eyes Adored You”, “Rag Doll” and “Bye Bye Baby”, which like always hits me very hard. Such beautiful music. Such wonderful talent. This is a show that is not to be missed.

“Jersey Boys” will continue at Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre through April 27th, 2014 (click here for tickets) and see below for future dates from the National tour.

Orlando, FL
April 15 – 27, 2014

Knoxville, TN
April 29 – May 4, 2014

Cleveland, OH
May 6 – 18, 2014

Sioux Falls, SD
May 21 – 25, 2014

El Paso, TX
May 28 – June 1, 2014

Fort Worth, TX
June 3 – 15, 2014

Tucson, AZ
June 17 – 22, 2014

Costa Mesa, CA
June 24 – July 13, 2014

San Jose, CA
July 15 – 20, 2014

Tempe, AZ
July 22 – August 3, 2014

Los Angeles, CA
October 1 – 19, 2014

San Diego, CA
October 21 – 26, 2014

Sacramento, CA
November 5 – 22, 2014

Reno, NV
November 25 – 30, 2014

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Film Review “Transcendence”

Starring: Johnny Depp, Morgan Freeman and Rebecca Hall
Directed By: Wally Pfister
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 119 minutes
Warner Bros. Pictures

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Transcendence” is a clever “What if?” that lacks the necessary ingredients to keep it thoroughly crisp. In our rapidly changing society and even faster technological advances, “Transcendence” presents it’s take on the infinite possibilities that are constantly being worked on. While on the outside, it may simply seem like artificial intelligence gone mad, “Transcendence” has a gooey philosophical core about our culture’s godly acceptance of robotic machinery.

Dr. Will Caster (Depp) is one of the leading minds behind the creation of A.I. Along with his wife, Evelyn (Hall); they are constantly working hard on a sentient program called PINN. The machine requires an entire room filled with processors to operate and has a kind female voice. A terrorist-like organization by the name of RIFT (Revolutionary Independence From Technology) opposes these ideas and executes a singular one-day attack on the A.I. scientist community, which includes Will. Will is pierced with a radioactive bullet that will slowly kill him and Evelyn has a drastic decision to make: Let Will live out the rest of his days at home or transfer his mind into a computer?

So obviously, Evelyn, along with Will’s friend Max (Paul Bettany), begins the process of taking his mind and uploading it onto the PINN endoskeleton. Ironically Max is philosopher of sorts when it comes to society’s willingness to embrace the high-tech Gods, so it’s a bit odd that he would help Evelyn in her quest to turn Will into a digital Frankenstein. To no one’s surprise, the transfer of human thoughts and emotions into a massive data file is a sweeping success. A digitized face of Will appears on screen and in seconds begins to talk and respond. That’s when Will finally realizes, “Maybe we shouldn’t have
”

This is when the movie kicks into the “computer self-awareness” sci-fi clichĂ©. While most take the trope and ride into a more action driven direction, “Transcendence” seems content with letting the plot simmer until the final few moments. During that time you’re only left to wonder if Will actually is inside that machine or if the programming has become a singular entity using thoughts and feelings as a ruse to obtain more power. Sure he finds a way to use nanobots to restore human limbs and repair tissue in split seconds, but once those miniature robots are inside its human, he’s able to remotely control their actions.

The director, Wally Pfister, is a cinematographer by trade and it definitely shows. While Johnny Depp may be the main drive of this movie, Rebecca Hall turns in one of her best performances since “The Prestige”. Morgan Freeman appears to be a miscast as the generic comic relief that feels unnecessary. The film has a lot of ideas, but it never can really settle on one and excel. The notion that Will’s mind has exceeded human intelligence and become a CPU deity is an interesting one, but the script is constantly juggling clichĂ©s that distract from this promising concept. Our character’s plight is one that could change the face of the planet, but never feels like it’s on the world stage. In light of my complaints, I had a blast watching the metaphysical material pop up, sometimes blatantly and sometimes lightly. Not a bad first outing for Pfister, but definitely some room for improvement.

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Blu-ray Review “Black Nativity”

Actors: Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Jennifer Hudson
Director: Kasi Lemmons
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: April 15, 2014
Run Time: 93 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

I am sucker for musicals, especially around the holiday season. “Black Nativity” got lost in a sea of films that came out late last Fall. The film posts a very impressive cast including Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Tyrese Gibson, Jennifer Hudson and Mary J. Blige. I really enjoyed the gospel take of these traditional Christmas songs, but when the music stops the fun stops for me. I was literally yearning for the next song in order to make myself enjoy this film.

Official Premise: Struggling to pay the bills, single mom Naima (Jennifer Hudson) sends her teenage son Langston (Jacob Latimore) to live with his estranged grandparents, Reverend Cornell and Aretha Cobbs (Forest Whitaker and Angela Bassett) in New York City. At first Langston resents their strict household, but with the help of new friends — and a little divine intervention — he embarks on an inspirational journey of self-discovery that brings the whole family together.

I personally don’t understand why Fox chose to release this film in April especially due to its themes but I guess they just wanted to drop it out. They also tried to change the cover art to make it seem less holiday related but it fails in my opinion. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track really gets a nice work out through these gospel-infused classics. The only special features included on this release are some Blu-ray exclusive deleted scenes and promotional featurettes. Nothing special at all.

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Blu-ray Review “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”

Actors: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Adam Scott
Director: Ben Stiller
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: April 15, 2014
Run Time: 115 minutes

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

“The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” was released last holiday season and basically lost in a sea of films. The film boasts an incredible cast. Ben Stiller is fun yet also inspiring in this film, also takes on director duty as well. I love his more dramatic work. Kristen Wiig is also growing on me quite a bit recently. When you watch this film you are just blown away by the shooting locations. When you find out that this costed $90+ million you easily understand why. For those people that are daydreamers wishing for an adventure daily, this is a great film to check out. It may not be for everyone since it isn’t your typical film but I really enjoyed it and I have a feeling this is going to have a life after theaters.

Official Premise: With sweeping cinematography and stellar performances “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”, tells the story of a timid magazine photo manager who lives life vicariously through daydreams and when a negative goes missing must embark on an incredible true-life adventure. With stand-out performances from Ben Stiller (“Night At The Museum”, “Meet The Parents”), Kristen Wiig (“Saturday Night Live”, “Bridesmaids”), Adam Scott (“Parks and Recreation”) and Shirley MacLaine (“Wild Oats”).

“The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” is released as a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD Ultraviolet copy. The 1080p transfer on this film is absolutely stunning. They really shot this in some amazing locations and it really transfer well to Blu-ray (though I am sure it was more beautiful in theaters). The DTS-HD-MA 7.1 is a nice surprise as well and really adds a lot to the film’s experience. Between the action and the score, I was in love with this track. Also included inside this combo pack is a special gift of a Shutterfly 20-page 8×8 hardcover photo book which is valued at $29.99. Honestly, love the movie or hate it but if you can pick this up cheap at Target or Amazon, it is worth the purchase alone.

In the special features section, there is a nice in-depth look on the behind-the-scenes of the film. It is split up into nine different sections including a look into the following “The History of Walter Mitty”; “The Look of Life”; “That’s A Shark” (my favorite); “The Music of Walter Mitty”; “Icelandic Adventure”; “Nordic Casting”; “Titles of Walter Mitty”; “Sights and Sounds of Production” and “Pre-Viz”. There is also a collection of five deleted scenes, two extended scenes and two alternate scenes. For photo buffs there is an amazing Reference Photography Gallery included. Then wrapping up the extras is an Music Video for “Stay Alive” by JosĂ© GonzĂĄlez and a Theatrical Trailer.

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Book Review “The Colony: Renegades” by Michaelbrent Collings

Author: Michaelbrent Collings
Series: The Colony
Paperback: 220 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Release Date: October 6, 2013

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I have spent the last few months trying to convince my doctor that I do not have high blood pressure, but I just realized what the problem is that I just read too much of Michaelbrent Collings’ books. I literally had my heart racing and clenching my teeth as I rushed to get to the next page…the next chapter. With “The Colony: Renegades”, the sequel to “The Colony: Genesis”, Michaelbrent continues to change the zombies genre. I just kept thinking to myself zombies don’t do the things that he has them do in this book, which only made it cooler. I demand you tell us what these things are Collings! I need to know! Like with the first book, I found that I couldn’t turn to the next page quick enough. Michaelbrent’s writing has always felt very cinematic to me. I was able to visualize this post-apocalyptic world so vividly while reading and I kept thinking to myself how this book is the Michael Bay of zombie books. You the man Collings! You got another hit here!

Official Premise: BEING ALIVE means you just have more to LOSE. The zombies are changing. Growing faster. Stronger. SMARTER. Working together to destroy all of humanity. Ken Strickland has found his family. But finding something and keeping it are two very different things. The survivors are bruised. They are broken. And they are about to find out that the worst monsters are among those they count as their friends.

I have to admit and apologize to Michaelbrent, I literally read “The Colony: Genesis” in practically one sitting last year. I then immediately started this one right after and it has taken me four months to complete it. Now please do not get me wrong, life just gets in the way and I haven’t had any time to focus on a book. But what I am getting to is that literally from not picking this book up for almost four months, I am so easily able to jump right back in with no issue at all. I still know all the characters and I feel like I had them on a long pause in my head. Also after picking it back up I was able to easily knock it out in less than two days.

This is what I love most about Michaelbrent’s work, he is sharp and keeps the chapters short and fast. Personally, if I am reading a book and it takes me forever to get through one chapter, I find myself getting bored no matter how good it is. His work literally is action-packed and every chapter is a cliffhanger into the next. Speaking of cliffhangers, I thought the first book had a zinger ending in it, so watch out. Since I started this book last year, Michaelbrent aka The Writing Machine has already released the next two installments in this series and has a fifth book coming out later this year as well. So as much as I would love to continue praising this book, I hate to cut this review short but I have to get my ass in gear now and try and catch up with this amazing series.

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Film Review “Draft Day”

Starring: Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner and Chadwick Boseman
Directed by: Ivan Reitman
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 49 mins
Summit Entertainment

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

In 1994 the film “Major League II” had the hapless Cleveland Indians heading to the World Series. Sadly, because of a labor dispute the real World Series was cancelled that season. However, in 1995 the real Indians did, in fact play in the World Series.

It’s 2014, and the NFL player draft is about to begin. Holding the seventh pick in the draft is Cleveland Brown general manager Sonny Weaver, Jr. (Costner) Sonny’s first two years at the helm have not been the best, both for the Browns and him personally. Injuries hurt the club, causing losses to pile up. It got so bad that Sonny made a tough decision and fired the team’s beloved coach, who also happened to be Sonny’s father. Coach Weaver passed away during the off season and now Sonny must not only grieve for the man who taught him everything he knows about football but he must keep the Cleveland faithful happy

An incredible inside look into how NFL teams wheel and deal, “Draft Day” is an excellent film for anyone that ever rooted for the home team. It is a little “football nerd” centric so if you’re not a draft junkie or only have a passing interest in your team you may find it a little boring.

With the draft 12 hours away we find Sonny making phone calls. Should he take the defensive player he’s been scouting for years? The running back that’s the son of a former Brown. Or should he trade away the future by grabbing the number one pick from the Seahawks by offering future first round picks? It’s not an easy decision to make. Especially when the local fans are already calling for your head on the call in radio shows. Left with nothing to lose, by the end of the day Sonny will have considered all of the above.

Told with humor, and with the obvious support of the NFL, “Draft Day” is just the film to see before the real draft starts on May 8. Costner leads a great cast of characters, all with their own personalities. Denis Leary is the newly hired coach, intent on keeping the team’s quarterback. Garner is the team’s number cruncher, as well as Costner’s behind the scenes girlfriend. She started the day with an announcement of her own so to say Sonny is stressed out is an understatement. As the countdown to pick number one comes to a head the wheeling and dealing go into overdrive!

What’s funny about the film is that they present it as right before this year’s draft, with the Seahawks picking first. Ironically, the Seahawks won the Super Bowl last year so they’ll actually pick last! Which is why I mentioned “Major League II.” Who knows, maybe movie magic will return to the Forest City and we’ll see the Browns next February in Arizona. But I wouldn’t bet on it!

 

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Book Review “The Metabarons: Ultimate Collection”

Author: Alexandro Jodorowsky
Illustrator: Juan Gimenez
Hardcover: 544 pages
Publisher: Humanoids Publishing
Relesae Date: November 13, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“The Metabarons” is the cult classic spin-off science fiction comic series from Alexandro Jodorowsky’s own cult classic series “The Incal”. The Ultimate Collection brings together this epic multi-part, multi-generational space opera that follows the Castaka Clan as their family rises to fame as the galaxy’s greatest warriors, the Metabarons. I recently feel in love with Alexandro Jodorowsky’s work after watching “Jodorowsky’s Dune”, which is an outstanding documentary on Alejandro’s failed film adapation of Frank Herbert’s novel “Dune” back in to the 70’s. Like “The Incal, “The Metabarons” is also heavily influenced by Frank Herbert’s “Dune” novels and includes aspects from Jodorowsky’s “Dune” as well. Again, if you are a sci-fi fan looking to discover something new or re-discover this cult classic, I highly recommend checking out this amazing collection.

Official Premise: A must-read cult spin-off of “The Incal,” by Moebius and Jodorowsky, centering around the fascinating lineage of the ultimate warrior. This collection introduces the Metabaron’s bloodline and reveals the origins of their deep-seated principles. Find out the source of the family’s vast wealth, learn why every Metabaron has cybernetic implants, and why the only way to become the next Metabaron is for him to defeat his own father in a mortal combat. Follow each successive generation as it struggles to overcome the forces amassed against it in a galaxy corrupted by greed, power, and terror. A true classic in the pantheon of graphic storytelling and Science Fiction as a whole.

Humanoid honestly does not mess around with their releases. This book is absolutely gorgeous and runs nearly 550 pages long at almost 2″ thick. No question, this is one of the most impressive comic releases that I have recently seen. If you’ve seen the film “Jodorowsky’s Dune”, and if you haven’t I HIGHLY recommend it, you will know that Alexandro developed a “book” for the film which includes the complete script wrapped around storyboards drafting out literally every scene and every character. There were originally only a handful of these made at the time but no only one or two are left. I believe that if Alexandro was ever to release that book to the world (which he really should), Humanoid would be the only company that would be able to do it justice. Just sayin’

The stories in this collection are so interesting and thought provoking. I really have a deeper appreciation for Jodorowsky’s work. This plays out like a space opera that is side acting as a futuristic Greek tragedy production. So there is a lot going on and it is so well tied together and delivered. The original French comics were reproduced in English in their original format. “The Metabarons Ultimate Collection” includes “Othon & Honorata”, “Aghnar & Oda”, “Steelhead & Doña Vicenta”, “Aghora & The Last Metabaron” plus two bonus short stories, “The Crest of Castaka” and “The Incal’s Dream”. So you get the works with this collection. If you are looking to get sucked and spit out by this incredible space opera, than I cannot recommend “The Metabarons” any more. I can’t wait to check out Humaoid’s release for “After the Incal” and “Final Incal” next.

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Book Review “The Incal: Classic Collection”

Author: Alexandro Jodorowsky
Illustrator: Moebius
Hardcover: 308 pages
Publisher: Humanoids Publishing
Release Date: June 29, 2011

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

After watching “Jodorowsky’s Dune”, which is an outstanding documentary on Alejandro’s failed film adapation of Frank Herbert’s novel “Dune” back in to the 70’s. What I did learn from that film was that Alejandro Jodorowsky was still able to bring some of his vision from his work on that film to life in the medium of comic books. “The Incal” is the first in a series of science fiction comic books written by Alejandro Jodorowsky and illustrated by Moebius. Jodorowsky’s work was so powerful and immense that his world created in these books we referred to as, a fictional universe, “Jodoverse”. These comics were originally written in French only, so thanks to Humanoids for bringing them to the US and keeping Jodorowsky’s vision alive and going strong. This is a must buy for any sci-fi fan.

Official Premise: John Difool, a low-class detective in a degenerate dystopian world, finds his life turned upside down when he discovers an ancient, mystical artifact called “The Incal.” Difool’s adventures will bring him into conflict with the galaxy’s greatest warrior, the Metabaron, and will pit him against the awesome powers of the Technopope. These encounters and many more make up a tale of comic and cosmic proportions that has Difool fighting for not only his very survival, but also the survival of the entire universe.

If you are unfamiliar with Alexandro Jodorowsky, you will most likely recongnize this work including cult films like “El Topo”, “Santa Sangre” and “The Holy Mountain”. Moebius is an internationally acclaimed illustrator endless amounts of graphic novels. He is also a film designer for films like “Alien” and “The Fifth Element”. Obviously you can see why the collaboration worked so well between these two. This project was spawned after a seven-year collaboration by Alejandro Jodorowsky and Moebius dating back to between 1981 and 1988. The collection includes all six stories including “The Black Incal”, “The Luminous Incal”, “What Lies Beneath”, “What Is Above”, “The Fifth Essence Part One: The Dreaming Galaxy” and “The Fifth Essence Part Two: Planet DiFool”

“The Incal” is a strange and crazy French space opera mixed up with metaphysics and satire. The new Humanoids release came as a very sharp hardcover. It restored the original colouring and removed the censorship on the nudity. Humanoids also restored Jodorowsky’s “The Metabarons”, “After the Incal” and the last “Final Incal” comes out later this year in English. What I really enjoyed about this work is that you can’t just read this comic and look at the colorful pictures. It requires intelligence to be able to understand and really appreciate it. You have to experience each word of his very influential text. It is extremely cinematic and nothing like any other comic developed during its time.

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Filed Under: Book Reviews, Comic Book Reviews Tagged With: book, classic, collection, incal, review

XBOX 360 Video Game Review “LEGO The Hobbit”

LEGO The Hobbit
Format: XBOX 360
Publisher: Warner Home Video
ESRB: Everyone 10+
Release Date: April 8, 2014

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Man, I am totally obsessed with all things “The Hobbit” right now. I have recently set through numerous viewings of both “Hobbit” films back to back. I just can’t get enough. I am also an avid fan of all things LEGO (Yes, 31 year old men still play with LEGO sets). The LEGO game series have been fantastic. Making not breaking video game ground with each no installment but tons of fun. I recently loved the new “LEGO Batman” and “LEGO Harry Potter” games and “LEGO The Hobbit” is certainly no different. If you loved the previous LEGO The Lord of the Rings series, this is yet another great addition and must play for anyone looking to explore Middle-earth LEGO style!

Official Premise: From the makers of the immensely popular LEGO The Lord of the Rings, comes LEGO The Hobbit, inspired by the first two films in The Hobbit Trilogy: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and the upcoming The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug, productions of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures (MGM) as well as the collection of LEGO The Hobbit constructions sets. The interactive game of LEGO The Hobbit allows gamers to play along their favorite scenes from the films and follows the Hobbit Bilbo Baggins as he is recruited by the Wizard Gandalf to aid Thorin Oakenshield and his Company of Dwarves. Bilbo leaves the comforts of the Shire on a journey through Middle-earth to help the Dwarves reclaim their lost Kingdom of Erebor within the Lonely Mountain.

The adventure starts with a Hobbit, a wizened Wizard and a group of valiant Dwarves as you head to the Lost Kingdom of Erebor to face the terrifying dragon Smaug. You can play the game as each of these characters from The Hobbit films including Bilbo, Gandalf, and the Dwarves: Thorin, Fili, Kili, Oin, Gloin, Dwalin, Balin Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, Dori, Nori and Ori. If that isn’t enough you are able to unlocke Sauron if you purchase the Blu-ray of “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” for a special in-game unlockable code. So you are not likely to get bored with the variety of option here. Each character has their own unique abilities to solve whichever quest you are facing.

Since we all know that location is everything even in Middle-earth. In the game you get a chance to explore and visit all key locations from the films including Bag End, head through the dangerous High Pass over The Misty Mountains in order to make it to Erebor. What I love most about LEGO in general and not only limited to the game is that you are create some many cool things. Here you are able to tacke exciting treasure quests, mine for gems, discover loot from enemies, craft powerful magical items or, of course, my favorite getting to build amazing and some times rather complicated new LEGO structures.

Another aspect that I love about the LEGO video game series is the humor in it. I love the dramatic aspect of this games and then mixed in so well is some great humor that lightening the mood. This game plays similar to past LEGO games, especially LEGO The Lord of the Rings but I do love that this game has a very new additions as well including much more ability to roam around. Also props to them for securing Christopher Lee to provide the narration between the chapters. If you enjoyed past LEGO games then you will enjoy this for sure. I apologize to my wife in advance for my constant playing of this game for the next few weeks, luckily there is a very fun multi-player option 😉

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Filed Under: Game Reviews Tagged With: 360, game, hobbit, lego, review, video, ...

DVD Review “Broadchurch: The Complete First Season”

Actors: David Tennant, Olivia Colman, Jodie Whittaker, David Bradley, Arthur Darvill
Created by: Chris Chibnall
Number of discs: 3
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Entertainment One
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 394 minutes

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

David Tennant can honestly do no wrong. He won us all over in his portrayal of the the 10th Doctor in the BBC hit revival series of “Doctor Who”. His latest series “Broadchurch” introduces us to Detective Inspector Alec Hardy, another role in which he nails. The show is a serial drama/thriller which centres on the death of an eleven-year-old boy, and the search for his killer. Just in the first season this show netted very high ratings and much critical acclaim. I really enjoyed this show and I am glad to see it finally get a US release. I wish Entertainment One could have given it a Blu-ray like in the UK personally. If you love David Tennant (who doesn’t), then I highly recommend this series.

Official Premise: Two detectives – the strong yet compassionate Detective Sergeant, Ellie Miller, and the by-the-book Detective Inspector, Alec Hardy – are brought together to solve the murder of an eleven year-old boy on a picturesque beach in a small coastal town. Under the glare of the media spotlight, the two race to find the killer, while the clock ticks and the mystery deepens.

Fun fact, Tennant’s co-star in this show Olivia Colman plays Detective Sergeant Ellie Miller. She also appeared in episode 5.1 of “Doctor Who” called “The Eleventh Hour” but missed Tennant’s reign by one episode. “Broadchurch: The Complete First Season” comes as a three-disc set contain all eight episodes. In terms of special features there is a making of featurette “Broadchurch: Behind the Scenes” and a few Deleted Scenes included. I would have loved to see some commentary tracks on these episodes which were originally included in the UK Blu-ray release.

Well “Broadchurch” fans, reassured since series 2 of this show is in currently development. If you don’t believe me watch the last episdoe of this season and you will see that “Broadchurch Will Return”. But wait there is more. Fox is also producing a US remake of “Broadchurch” to air in the 2014–15 season, called “Gracepoint”…and wait for it…David Tennant is playing the lead (again) detective named Emmett Carver. So it is going to be a broad future for this show. Keep it coming!

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: broadchurch, complete, dvd, review, season

Magazine Review “Full Moon Presents: Delirium” Issue #1

“Full Moon Presents: Delirium”
Issue: #1
Genre: Horror
Publisher: Charles Band
Pages: 50

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Charles Band…this guy is a legend. He has not only been making the movies that he wants to make for the last 30 years but now he is also being a magazine publisher. You really got to give it to this guy for non-stop work in order to deliver to the large appetite of this fans. Flashback to early 1990-1991, I remember I used to walk up and down the horror section in the local mom and pop video store, Royal Video in Long Island, NY, looking for killer horror titles. I found myself in front of “Re-Animator” and my life was changed. Fast forward many years, I have a copy of issue #1 of Charles Band’s hororr magazine, “Full Moon Presents: Delirium”, in my hands and I am transported back to that aisle in the video store. Thanks Charles! You the man! All I have to ask is when is issue #2 coming out?

Inside this beautiful magazine is filled with everything Full Moon and horror from Blu-ray advertisements to convention promotions. There are some great featured interviews including a nice focus on one of my favorites “Re-Animator”. There is a Q&A with Stuart Gordon about his beloved horror cult classic. The gorgeous Barbara Crampton chimes in about her titilating role in “Re-Animator”. Of course the man that ties it all together, composer Richard Band talks about the music for “Re-Animator”. There are also interviews on newer projects including Douglas Aarniokoski talking about directing “Nurse 3D” and his start at Full Moon and also Olivia Alexander talking about her role in Full Moon’s “Killer Eye 2”. Lastly there is a great feature “Red, White and Blue Underground” which has Full Moon taking a look at the company’s amazing titles.

Besides features, there are some other great columns included. The issue kicks off with “Delirious Words” which is love letter to Band’s Full Moon from the editor. “Full Moon Rising” takes a look into the ganja versions of classic films “Trophy Heads” and “Head of the Family”. “Bring me the Head of Stuart Gordon” has the director talking about his adventures in filmmaking. “Wizard Studios” is an amazing piece on the newly revival of the microbudget imprint within Fill Moon and their first three films. “Grindhouse Flix” has legendar actress Celeste Yarnall reflecting on her role in “The Velvet Vampire”. “The Vault” takes a look back into the cult classic “Tourist Trap”. Wrapping this up is “Bandwidth”, which is a closing words from publisher Charles Band.

I think this magazine has great potential for us horror fans. Currently my favorite horror magazine has to be Horrorhound and this reminds me a lot about it. Fangoria gives away too many spoilers. Rue Morgue is too wordy and not very fun to read. My only comments again Delirium would be for them to figure out a common font size and style for each article and stick to it since there is a lot of jumping around and it is distracting. The only other thing would be the price point $45 dollars for a subscription, which is not terrible since I think Horrorhound is $35 but my issue is that shipping is not included. But either way, if you love horror and Full Moon’s contribution to it, I would recommend checking this out. It is not available in stores either so head over to FullMoonStreaming.com and subscribe you. Tell them MediaMikes.com send you!

 

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Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: 1, delirium, full, issue, magazine, moon, ...
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