Film Review “Sabotage”

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sam Worthington and Olivia Williams
Directed By: David Ayer
Rated: R
Running Time: 109 Minutes
Open Road Films

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

First thing I did when I got home from this movie was Google Arnold Schwarzenegger’s age. At this point in life I’m just hoping to look half as fit as he does at 66. In fact I should pray I live that long. The reason that bit of insignificant trivia was at the forefront of my mind is because he can still be a believable action star. After watching ‘Sabotage’, I believe that Schwarzenegger can pull off the lead in as many violent movies he wants to for the next decade. It’s too bad this potential return to form was sabotaged by an obnoxious cast of characters.

Breacher (Schwarzenegger) leads an underground group of mercenary-style DEA agents in a Cartel bust that goes bad when $10 million goes missing by the end of the mission. As much as it would help to visualize my complaints, I don’t feel like rattling off the seven crass biped creatures that make up his squad. They each carry around their own undesirable traits and probably still laugh at their own flatulence in the bathtub. After it becomes apparent that someone in this team has taken the money, the government takes it upon themselves to begin months of questioning and stalking that turns up nothing. But once the government gives up it’s investigation, things become complicated when it appears that the Cartel is now killing them one-by-one. Instead of the federal government becoming interested in an international criminal organization killing DEA agents, an Atlanta detective, Caroline (Williams) picks up an invested interest in the matter.

If it wasn’t for Schwarzenegger and Williams, I would have disliked everything. Despite tallying the highest kill count, Breacher feels like the most sane of the bunch. He seems to be the only one of the group that doesn’t abuse drugs, have a bipolar disorder and is able to carry a civil conversation that doesn’t involve constantly referring to the inquisitive Caroline as a stripper. His ensemble of commando DEA agents come off as a band of vulgar misfits that would much rather get in a fight in the strip club than worry too much about who’s picking them off systematically. I was hoping that the mystery murderers would at least speed up the process.

‘Sabotage’ is mild on the action, but shockingly heavy on the gore. I would have enjoyed more shootouts over people being disgustingly nailed to ceilings and bloated corpses wrapped in chicken wire. This movie goes with a mystery/thriller angle, but falls short of materializing any suspense or intrigue. I’m suppose to be on the edge of my seat with bated breath, but the juggling act of drama, suspense and action has them dropping the ball on multiple occasions instead of performing a trifecta in the genre department.

Despite the ineffective writing I did find myself entertained, but only when Schwarzenegger was realizing not everything has to be delivered in a stone cold tone and when detective Caroline entered a scene equipped with comebacks and pleasantries. I have to touch on these two again because they had a surprising chemistry. Even when the script finally calls for them to “do the deed,” it doesn’t feel forced, but more like a natural comedic break that allows for plot to move forward. Let’s just hope someone realizes Schwarzenegger’s talents are alive and well and shouldn’t be wasted as the sands of time slowly tick away.

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Blu-ray Review “The Pirate Fairy”

Starring: Mae Whitman, Christina Hendricks, Tom Hiddleston, Lucy Liu, Raven-Symoné, Megan Hilty
Director: Peggy Holmes
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

“The Pirate Fairy” is the latest entry in the Tinker Bell led “Disney Fairies” direct-to-video CG-animated movie series. The last one “Secret of the Wings” was one of my favorites and was also in amazing 3D. This one has last that added dimension but is still an amazing film. It introduces us to a new strong female lead fairy Zarina (voiced of Christina Hendricks, “Mad Men”) and also a captain boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston aka Marvel’s Loki)…hint hint who could be hooked to become a captain. These films are very cute and fun as well. My daughter is nearly two and she absolutely loves the Disney Fairies, especially Tinker Bell. I mean what girl doesn’t? This series is great for them and I hope that Disney continues these forever!

Official Premise: From the world of Peter Pan comes The Pirate Fairy, a swashbuckling new adventure about Zarina (voice of Christina Hendricks), a smart and ambitious dust-keeper fairy who’s captivated by Blue Pixie Dust and its endless possibilities. When Zarina’s wild ideas get her into trouble, she flees Pixie Hollow and joins forces with the scheming pirates of Skull Rock, who make her captain of their ship. Tinker Bell (voice of Mae Whitman) and her friends must embark on an epic adventure to find Zarina, and together they go sword-to-sword with the band of pirates led by a cabin boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston), who’ll soon be known as Captain Hook, himself.

Disney released this film with a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + HD Digital copy. Since Disney has started their own streaming online service, I have been loving this option. I hope they make an Android app sooner than later…not everyone has an Apple product Disney! The 1080p transfer is mind-blowing. The detail and work that must go into these films must be ridiculous. They create this world in these films and it looks so beautiful and magically. The colors are so vibrant and feel so fresh. If that wasn’t enough this Blu-ray comes with an outstanding DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track, that’s right 7.1. Since this film is more action based, it is very impressive.

The Blu-ray is also packed with great special features both for kids and the adults. “Second Star to the Right: The Legacy of Never Land” gives you the chance to explore Never Land’s history and its endless ability to inspire. “The Making of ‘The Frigate That Flies'” takes you behind-the-scenes with Tom Hiddleston at the song recording. “Croc-u-mentary” is a funny documentary about the character “Crocky”. Lastly, there are some Deleted Scenes and Sing-Along Songs included rounding out the extras. Fans of this series should really enjoy these extras after the film.


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Book Review “The Art of the Disney Golden Books”

Author: Charles Solomon
Series: Disney Editions Deluxe
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Disney Editions
Release Date: April 8, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

What kid didn’t grow up reading Disney Golden Books? These little books have such memories for me, I can always remember great times picking them up at the supermarket and reading them on the way home…and then over and over. “The Art of the Disney Golden Books” does not only deliver pristine and gorgeous art from these books they also provide a lot of history on these books. In fact, they started all the way back in 1933. Ranging from past classics “101 Dalmatians” to “Peter Pan” to “Once Upon A Wintertime” to “Alice in Wonderland” (which I still have my original) to today’s classics like “Toy Story”, “Finding Nemo”, “Tangled” and even as recent as “Frozen”. This is a must own for anyone big or small to enjoy either for themselves or with their family.

Official Premise: The Art of the Disney Golden Books celebrates a legacy that has now thrived for more than eighty years and continues to influence new generations of artists and filmmakers. Through interviews with contemporary animators who recall tracing the characters in their childhood Disney Golden Books, paintings by artists who influenced and inspired the Disney Golden Book illustrations, and a generous complement of Golden Book artwork-much of which was thought to have been lost until very recently-the rich tradition of the series is explored in this vibrant volume.

Disney Press really delivered an amazing book here. I literally couldn’t put it down as I had to see what was coming next and wanted to read every fact given by author Charles Solomon. Some of his other books include “Tale As Old As Time: The Art and Making of Beauty and the Beast”, “Disney Lost and Found” and
“The Disney That Never Was”. So he has quite the history with the company. Some of the images in the book are such high quality and I love the fact that they are actual preview images, meaning they do not have any text included on them. It is really cool to see them presented in that way. Actually since I have read some of these numerous times, I found myself even able to fill in some blanks from memory.

The breakdown of the book is also very interesting. We start with the history of Golden Books, which is unbelievable interesting. Then we switch gears to beautiful art work and, most importantly, to the talented artists that have worked on these books. There is also great sections on the memories and influences for these titles. I think this one really hit home for me since I have such a connection with these books. There is focus on the new creations and past discoveries of characters found in the Golden Books as well from Rapunzel to “Peter and the Wolf”. The book closes out discussing the legacy of Golden Books and the future as well. Can’t wait to read this again and share these books with my own daughter.

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DVD Review “Here’s Lucy: The Complete Series”

Actors: Lucille Ball, Gale Gordon, Lucie Arnaz, Desi Arnaz Jr.
Number of discs: 24
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 4320 minutes

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

After “I Love Lucy” ended in 1958, Lucille Ball went on to star in two other very successful series. The first being “The Lucy Show”, which ran on CBS from 1962 to 1968 (156 Episodes) to “Here’s Lucy” which ran from 1968 to 1974 (144 episodes). In “Here’s Lucy”, the show brought back veteran Gale Gordon along with Lucille Ball’s own real-life children, Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz, Jr. I wanted alive during the original airing of this show but I recall it quite fondly due to syndication. There was also something about Lucille Ball that I just loved, could have been a first crush, who knows. She is an amazing actress, as well as very funny all throughout here career (except for “Life with Lucy” that will be try and forget). Thanks to MPI Home Video we are getting the complete series of “Here’s Lucy” with all 144 uncut and digitally remastered episodes together for the first time on DVD as a box set.

Like “The Lucy Show”, there was no shortage of guest stars for this show. It was a little slow in the beginning but in the last few seasons had a “guest star of the week”. When I say guest stars, I mean some of the biggest names in Hollywood at the time including Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Andy Griffith, Joan Rivers, Danny Thomas, Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, Frankie Avalon, Eddie Albert, Milton Berle, Chuck Connors, Ed McMahon, Don Knotts, Donny Osmond, Eva Gabor, Joe Namath, Petula Clark, Ricardo Montalban, Elsa Lanchester and many many more. Speaking of as the show went on this show actually got better and better in the first few seasons. In fact, the third was definitely the best in my eyes. After that the show was still good but was on a slight decline though still quite enjoyable.

This Complete Series box set comes complete with each of the 144 episodes from this series, totaling up 4320 minutes, which would literally take you six days straight to watch in a row without bathroom breaks or food. Along with each season DVD, there is TONS of great special features included. Season one comes with new episode introductions on every single episode from either Lucie Arnaz or Desi Arnaz, Jr. and a few other surprises including Joseph Ruskin, Peggy Rae, Wayne Newton, and Bruce Gordon. The rest of the special features are located on disc 4. There is a feature on “Making the Main Title”, which is a cool animation sequence. “Meet the Carters” is a featurette with Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz, Jr. talking about the series. “Let’s Talk to Lucy” is a radio program where Lucy interviews her co-star from “Here’s Lucy. feature. There are “Screen Tests” included but not from this show, which is strange, it is from the 1968 film “Yours, Mine, and Ours” for Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz, Jr.

Still we season one we have “Slide Show”, which is a collection of photos from the first season with music in the background. Next is “Treasures from Lucy’s Vault”, this again isn’t directly related to “Here’s Lucy” but still a nice addition. “I Love Lucy Home Videos” is home movies from being on the road with “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour”. “Lucy at LAX” contains extended footage shot for the episode “Lucy and the Great Airport Chase”. “The Chase” is a 1965 home video of Lucy and her husband, Gary Morton. “Lucy the Model” are a few more short videos of Lucy doing a little bit of modeling. Finally in the vault, “Golfing with Gleason” is footage of Gary Morton and Lucille Ball playing golf with Jackie Gleason. Lastly there are “Production Files” and tons of original CBS-TV Network & Syndication promos.

Season two brings us some more extras including new episode introductions on every single episode from either Lucie Arnaz or Desi Arnaz, Jr. Then again on disc 4 there are more extras including the featurette “Here’s Lucy: On Location” where Lucie Arnaz, Desi Arnaz, Jr. and others talk about producing episodes outside of the studio. “Let’s Talk to Lucy: Carol Burnett” is a radio interview with Carol Burnett from 1964. “Lucy Sings” is a short extra with Lucy performing on stage. “Lucie and Wayne Newton” is cool vintage footage with Lucie Arnaz talking and performing with with Wayne Newton in front of an audience. We again have another set of “Treasures From Lucy’s Vault”, which is more home videos including “Air Force Academy Adventures”, “Roll ‘Em On the River”, “Lucy Scouts the Rapids”, “At Home With Desi, Jr.” and “USC Honors Lucy”. Lastly there are “Production Files”, a slideshow and tons of original CBS-TV Network & Syndication promos.

Season three starts off with new episode introductions on every single episode from either Lucie Arnaz or Desi Arnaz, Jr. Then again on disc 4 there are more extras including the featurettes and the usual Let’s Talk to Lucy, Treasures from Lucy’s Vault, Production Files, Slide Show and Syndication Promos. A few highlights are “Lucy Meets the Burtons: A Comedic Gem” which is a new featurette with interviews from Lucie Arnaz, Production Executive Howard Rayfiel, Producer Cleo Smith, Columnist James Bacon, Property Master Ken Wescott, Television Critic Cecil Smith, Cue Card Operator Tommy Tucker, Hairstylist Irma Kusely, Writer Madelyn Davis and Carole Cook talking about the series. Also “Lucy with Jack Benny” from a 1971 special called “Everything You Wanted to Know About Jack Benny… But Were Afraid to Ask.” Lucy performs along with John Wayne and George Burns appearing.

If you aren’t seeing a trend here, they extras are pretty similar on each season. Season four continues the trend with new episode introductions on every single episode from either Lucie Arnaz or Desi Arnaz, Jr. Then again on disc 4 there are more extras including the featurettes and the usual Let’s Talk to Lucy, Treasures from Lucy’s Vault, Production Files, Slide Show and Syndication Promos. A few highlights “Here’s Harry”, which is a retrospective on Gale Gordon and features Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz, Jr. talking about him and his career. “Let’s Talk to Lucy: Dinah Shore” is another interview with Lucy from her radio program chatting with Dinah Shore.

Almost done here, season five includes the new episode introductions on every single episode from either Lucie Arnaz or Desi Arnaz, Jr. Then again on disc 4 there are more extras including the featurettes and the usual Let’s Talk to Lucy, Treasures from Lucy’s Vault, Production Files, Slide Show and Syndication Promos. A few highlights are “Here’s Lucy Spotlight: Desi Arnaz, Jr.”, which features Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz, Jr. talking about the actor’s career. “Let’s Talk to Lucy: Frank Sinatra”, one of my favorite since I love ole blue eyes, is a full audio clip of a radio interview that Lucy did with Frank Sinatra in 1965.

Finally the last season is here, how does anyone even have time to watch this entire series and then ALL of these special features. Season six doesn’t have the new episode introductions on every single episode from either Lucie Arnaz or Desi Arnaz, Jr…just kidding wanted to see if you were paying attention. Yes, they are also included on this season. Then again on disc 4 there are more extras including the featurettes and the usual Let’s Talk to Lucy, Treasures from Lucy’s Vault, Production Files, Slide Show and Syndication Promos. A few highlights “Let’s Talk to Lucy” which is more radio interviews that Lucy did with Andy Griffith on her radio show in March 1965. “Lucy on the Tennessee Ernie Ford Special” (8:36) is a fun skit from the 1968 Tennessee Ernie Ford Special. “Lucy and Vivian Vance on Dinah!” is an extended interview of Lucy from Dinah Shore’s show in 1975 where we get to see Lucy with a new look. Lastly there is a “Film Short: For a Wonderful Life!” introduced by Lucille Ball and Lucie Arnaz.

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Blu-ray Review “Walking with Dinosaurs: The Movie”

Actors: John Leguizamo, Justin Long, Tiya Sircar, Karl Urban
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 88 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Originally, when I first saw this announced that this was going to be pretty cool having a live-action CGI feature about the 1999 BBC series and live tour. The film packs a great ensemble of talent including: John Leguizamo (“Ice Age” series), Justin Long (“Alvin and the Chipmunks” series) and Karl Urban (“Star Trek” series). Unfortunately, the film just doesn’t really work at all. Visually, its pretty freaking awesome but other that that I had trouble even finishing this one. Plus the dinosaurs mouths don’t move, so these voices end up coming out of nowhere…where dinosaurs able to talk telepathically? I would steer pretty clear for this one unless your kids are huge dinosaur buffs.

Official Premise: The gigantic voice talents of Justin Long (Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise) and John Leguizamo (Ice Age franchise) take you on a thrilling prehistoric journey the whole family will enjoy! In a time when dinosaurs rule the Earth, the smallest of the pack — a playful Pachyrhinosaurus named Patchi — embarks on the biggest adventure of his life. As he tries to find his place in a spectacular world filled with fun-loving friends and a few dangerous foes, Patchi will discover the courage he needs to become the leader of the herd…and a hero for the ages.

Fox delivered this film in a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet copy. I personally am a little disappointed since this film was filmed with the latest in cutting edge 3D technology from the masters behind “Avatar”. So I am sure that would have made the viewing experience a little better but still not perfect. Also the Deluxe Edition release contains an extra called the Cretaceous Cut, which is the movie in its “natural” version aka without the voices coming out of non-moving mouths. Nonetheless, the 1080p transfer is still very impressive and the CG animation does look quite stunning. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works with the occasional action.

I am kind of conflicted about the special features here because, they lack any technical approach but they very educational and interactive for kids. Having a young daughter, I actually appreciate that even though I also wanted to see some a visual effects featurette personally. “The Ultimate Dino Guide” urges you to dive into and find out about greatest secrets about your favorite dinosaurs. “Match the Call” is a matching game which has you testing your skill on how the dinosaurs communicated. “Interactive Map” takes you on a tour on where the dinos roamed in comparison to today. Lastly “Brainosaur Trivia Track” is a pop-up track during the film giving fun and interesting facts.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Delivery Man”

Actors: Vince Vaughn, Cobie Smulders, Chris Pratt
Directors: Ken Scott
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Touchstone Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 104 minutes

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

When I saw the trailer for “Delivery Man”, I couldn’t help but thinking poor Vince Vaughn. There was really no interest in this film at all from myself and the rest of the world as well. What is sad is that it does actually have a really good heart as well and a nice message of promoting family. It is a remake of the director, Ken Scott’s own 2011 French-Canadian comedy called “Starbuck”. I would say that if you like Vince Vaughn, I would recommend checking it out but I do not see myself really ever watching this again. What I like to call a one-timer.

Official Premise: Underachiever David Wozniak (Vince Vaughn) learns he’s actually an overachiever, having fathered 533 children via donations made twenty years earlier. But David soon discovers that the shock of his life might just be the best thing that’s ever happened to him. Along the way he discovers not only his true self, but also the father he could become.

Disney released this film in a bare-bones Blu-ray release with no DVD or Digital HD copy included. The 1080p video and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 work with the film but this is one that doesn’t benefit much from Blu-ray anyway. In the extras department, there are some decent special features but nothing amazing. “Building Family” is a behind-the-scenes look. “Vince Vaughn: Off The Cuff” features the actor doing what he does best, improving. “I Got The Part” is a feature focusing on the film’s very large cast. Lastly. there is one deleted scenes and some bloopers included.

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Blu-ray Review “Green Lantern: The Animated Series”

Voices of: Josh Keaton, Kevin Michael Richardson, Grey DeLisle, Jonathan Adams, Jason Spisak
Directed by: Sam Liu, Rick Morales
Studio: Warner Archive Collection
DVD Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 572 minutes

Series: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

Like the “Green Lantern” live-action movie, “Green Lantern: The Animated Series” was also not given the respect that it deserved. The series was cancelled after one season and didn’t even get a chance to pick up some steam. Cartoon Network started their “DC Nation” block and then pretty much canceled all of it including this show, “Beware the Batman (which is actually in limbo) and “Young Justice”. All great shows, just not given any love. This CGI series was slick, well-done and just looked awesome. I thought that they were really going somewhere with the story, which was well-written and had some great arcs. It is action packed and also very funny (like Green Lantern should be). All 26 episodes are included in this release. If you are a fan of DC Comics, I would recommend checking this series out…and be sure to spread the word to your friend so that Green Lantern shines bright.

Official Premise: In Brightest Day, In Blackest Night! Green Lantern shines bright in DC’s radiant, groundbreaking CGI animated series. The Green Lantern Corps patrols the galaxy, fighting evil. But in the farthest reaches of deep space where few Lanterns patrol, a new evil is rising – the Red Lanterns! Hal Jordan and fellow Lantern Kilowog defy The Guardians of the Universe and board a new experimental spacecraft, the Interceptor, and race to the Guardian Frontier to face the evil Red Lanterns head-on! But a menace lurks beyond the Red Lantern invasion and Hal, Kilowog and fellow Green Lanterns Tomar-Re and Aya discover an even greater evil that threatens to extinguish all life. It’s an interstellar race to destroy the mechanical Manhunters, aid Saint Walker and his Blue Lanterns and stop the planet-eating Anti-Monitor! Pick up this exciting double-disc complete series set to see if Green Lantern’s light can defeat these powerful new enemies! If not, the universe will fall into darkness!

Besides being a kick-ass show, “Green Lantern: The Animated Series” also packed a great voice cast including Josh Keaton (“The Spectacular Spider-Man”) as the voice of Hal Jordan/Green Lantern, Kevin Michael Richardson (“Thundercats”) as Kilowog, Grey DeLisle (“The Fairly OddParents”) as Aya and Jason Spisak (“Young Justice”) as Razer. There are also an amazing collection of guest voice stars included as well. Robert Englund (“A Nightmare on Elm Street”), Ron Perlman (“Hellboy”), Clancy Brown (“The Shawshank Redemption”), Wayne Knight (“Seinfeld”), Juliet Landau (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), Kurtwood Smith (“That 70’s Show”), Phil Morris (“Smallville”), Brian George (“Seinfeld”) and many more popped in to add their talent to this series.

What I really love about a Warner Archive Collection is that a show like this would normally sit on the shelf for a while and eventually get thrown out on DVD after years of waiting…or never at all. Warner Archive is hoping giving this show a new life by releasing it not only on DVD but also Blu-ray! They have been starting getting into Blu-ray and their releases have been fantastic. The 1080p transfer is solid and the colors are just so vibrant. One thing I loved about this show was the animation style and I feel that it is so sleak and eye-catching. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track also sounds great with the explosive action-packed episodes. The thing I do not like about Warner Archive is that most of their releases are also bare-bones like this one is, but I am happy we at least have this season now and I am able to spread the word about this great series, so h hopefully Cartoon Network will regret canceling it.

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Book Review “The Art of The Wind Rises”

Author: Hayao Miyazaki
Series: The Wind Rises
Hardcover: 224 pages
Publisher: VIZ Media
Release Date: April 8, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have been a fan of Studio Ghibli since the early 90’s and have seen and cherished every one of the films, especially those directed by Hayao Miyzaki. Sad news is that “The Wind Rises” is actually the last film he will be directing. Good news it that it is one of his best. Viz Media has been behind all of Studio Ghibli’s “Art of” books and they are considered gold on my bookshelves. I love reading them over and over and this one is already no different. I am very glad that they switched back to the hardcover format as well after slipping to softcover with “The Secret World of Arriety”. If you are a Studio Ghibli fan, I cannot recommend this anymore, it is a must own!

Official Premise: The latest in the perennially popular line of Studio Ghibli artbooks, which includes interviews, concept sketches, and finished animation cels from classics such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. The Wind Rises is Miyazaki’s love letter to the power of flight and the imagination, an examination of the rise of Japan’s military might in the years leading up to the Second World War, and a call for worldwide peace and harmony in the face of destruction. This book captures the art of the film, from conception to production, and features in-depth interviews with the filmmakers.

I have seen this film about five times now, so I practically know it inside and out. I am just amazed by every single scene in the film. The colors, the animation, the design is just absolutely mind-blowing to me. Well, it is even more mind-blowing once you get inside this book. I literally combed it page by page inch by inch soaking up every single bit of information and detail that I could. It is packed with great concept drawings, interviews and animation cels from the film. It is so beautiful and has the power to generate a tear due to this being such a powerful film and also Miyzaki’s last.

 

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Blu-ray Review “No Holds Barred (1989)”

Actors: Hulk Hogan, Joan Severance, Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister
Directors: Thomas J. Wright
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

When I was a kid growing up in the 80’s I was head over heels into wrestling! I couldn’t get enough. I remember when this film came out in 1989 and I saw my favorite wrestler Hulk Hogan “act” in a movie. I couldn’t have been more excited. What I enjoyed most is that I was as excited and entertained watching this today as I was when I was a kid. Hulk Hogan was and still is the man and here the guy is doing what he did best, wrestle, and he kicks some major ass. This film also kicked off a nice little wrestling career for Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister as he continued playing the role of Zeus even outside the film. If you are a fan of 80’s wrestling and films, in general, then I would definitely recommend checking this out!

Official Premise: When world wrestling champion Rip Thomas (WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan) refuses to join a competing network, an evil executive creates a new program, “The Battle of the Tough Guys,” where rules don’t exist and men engage in an all-out brawl for money. After a murdering ex-convict by the name of Zeus (Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister, The Dark Knight) comes out on top as the toughest man, an ultimate title match with Rip is the TV network’s best chance for big ratings. But when Rip refuses the challenge and his brother is roughed-up as a consequence, the world champion has no choice but to teach Zeus a lesson in a final ‘No Holds Barred’ fight to the finish.

This is the first time that “No Holds Barred” has ever been released on high-definition Blu-ray. The 1080p shows its age a bit but is still quite impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is a real treat as well from every power slam to audience member cheering sounds great. There are some Blu-ray exclusive special features as well, which are a great companion to the film. There is a “No Holds Barred Tag Team Steel Cage Match” from 12/27/1989 featuring Zeus and Randy Savage with Sensational Sherri vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake. There is also a “Summer Slam Tag Team Match” from 8/28/1989 featuring Zeus and Randy Savage with Sensational Sherri vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake with Miss Elizabeth. If you are a wrestling fan, these are a must way. Lastly there is also a Photo Gallery included.

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Blu-ray Review “Odd Thomas”

Actors: Anton Yelchin, Willem Dafoe, Addison Timlin
Directors: Stephen Sommers
Rated: Unrated
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 96 minutes

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

“Odd Thomas” is based on Dean Koontz’s novel of the same name. It is directed, written and co-produced by Stephen Sommers, aka the director of “The Mummy” and “Van Helsing”. It stars the fantastic Anton Yelchin (“Fright Night”, “Star Trek”) and Willem Dafoe (“Spider-Man”). Where the hell did this film come from? And I also thought to myself why didn’t this film get a bigger release? Then I saw it. It is very ambitious and quite visual but also lacking that big-budget success factor. I call this a one-timer. But if you are a hardcore fan of the book, this is very true and will let you satisfied.

Official Premise: Small-town fry cook Odd Thomas (Anton Yelchin) is an ordinary guy with a paranormal secret: he sees dead people, everywhere. When a creepy stranger shows-up with an entourage of ghostly bodachs – predators who feed on pain and portend mass destruction – Odd knows that his town is in serious trouble. Teaming up with his sweetheart Stormy (Addison Timlin) and the local sheriff (Willem Dafoe), Odd plunges into an epic battle of good vs evil to try to stop a disaster of apocalyptic proportions.

Since this is from director of “The Mummy”, you would expect that this would be very visual effects heavy and in fact it actually is. The film packs some great VFX and the 1080p transfer support it very well. The film is also quite dark yet it still is very sharp. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also works well with the jumps and the creepy/yet action packed score. There are no special features included, which just blows my mind and screams LAZY to be honest. A featurette on the visual effects alone would have been great.

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Blu-ray Review “August: Osage County”

Actors: Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ewan McGregor, Chris Cooper
Directors: John Wells
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
DVD Release Date: April 8, 2014
Run Time: 120 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I saw the cast for “August: Osage County”. I knew it just had to be amazing. First of all anything starring Meryl Streep gets my vote right away. Top that with ace performances from (BIG BREATH) Julia Roberts, Ewan McGregor, Chris Cooper, Margo Martindale, Abigail Breslin, Benedict Cumberbatch, Juliette Lewis, Dermot Mulroney, Julianne Nicholson, Misty Upham and Sam Shepard (WHEW). Truly outstanding cast with just perfect and they are same time mentally and physically exhausting. Besides have the worst Blu-ray cover art of the year (how about the rest of the cast), this film was easily one of the best of 2013. A must see!

Official Premise: Streep and Roberts star in the darkly hilarious and deeply touching story of the strong-willed women of the Weston family, whose lives converge when a family crisis brings them back to the Midwest house they grew up in, and to the dysfunctional mother who raised them. August: Osage County is based on the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama-winning play by Tracy Letts, who is also known as Andrew Lockhart on Showtime’s Homeland. Director John Wells, best known as executive producer and showrunner of hit television series ER, The West Wing and Shameless, skillfully translates from stage to screen, leading an all-star cast.

Not sure why but we received a Blu-ray only disc to review with no DVD or Ultraviolet code. Now on Amazon.com they do have two versions for sale and in fact this non-combo pack is actually $5.00 more, which makes no sense to me. So if you buy this and I recommend it…be sure to get the combo pack. The 1080p really captures some of the beauty of Oklahoma‎, since most of the film takes place in Streep’s house. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works perfect with the score and the non-dialogue stage play dialogue.

The special features are decent for this release. There is an audio commentary with Director John Wells and Cinematographer Adriano Goldman. I actually found this very interesting and a nice complement to the film. There are some deleted scenes as well with Commentary by Wells and Goldman. There is a nice behind-the-scenes look at “The Making of August: Osage County”. Lastly there is a Writing Featurette with Tracy Letts, looking into the stage play to the film translation.

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Blu-ray Review “Beneath”

Actors: Daniel Zovatto, Mark Margolis
Directors: Larry Fessenden
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

When it comes to indie horror, Larry Fessenden (“The Last Winter”, “Wendigo”) is the man. When you see the poster for “Beneath” you might think “Oh it just another JAWS rip-off!” Well you will be wrong (sort of). It takes some good ideas from “Jaws” and made it its own. I was really impressive with this film because it packed some great scares and most importantly a practical effect fish, which was creepy as hell. It is rare that a film can nail good practical effects but this film has balls and delivers!

Official Premise: When a group of young friends commemorating their high school graduation take a trip to the remote Black Lake, their celebration turns into a nightmare with the sudden appearance of a bloodthirsty, underwater predator. Stuck in a leaking boat with no oars, the teens face the ultimate tests of friendship and sacrifice during a terror-stricken fight for survival.

Shout! Factory’s sub label Scream Factory has really given this a nice release. The Blu-ray comes along with a digital copy of the film (though a downer that it is not Ultraviolet, come on!) The 1080p transfer is solid and the practical effects look great in high-def (I had watched a crappy DVD screener, prior). The DTS-HD Master Audio track is also impressive with the scares and the perfectly tuned score.

This Blu-ray also comes jam-packed with great special features. There is an audio commentary with Larry Fessenden and Graham Reznick. This is very interested and highly recommend to re-watch the film. There are three featurettes including a great behind-the-scenes peek with “A Look Behind The Scenes: Making the Fish Movie”, “What’s In Black Lake?”, “From the Web: What the Zeke?” and “Fessenden on Jaws”, obviously cool to see where his inspiration came from. Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

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DVD Review “Contracted”

Actors: Najarra Townsend, Caroline Williams, Katie Stegeman, Simon Barrett
Directors: Eric England
Rated: Unrated
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
DVD Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 84 minutes

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

When you see the box art to “Contracted” you cannot help but get curious about this film, especially being a horror fan. The film starts off slow and gets more and more intense each minute, sort of like the virus that Samantha gets in the film. I wouldn’t call this a zombie film upfront actually but it does have a nice transition into one. Najarra Townsend is quite amazing in the film and really has such an impressive transition from the beginning to the end. Horror fans will also enjoy seeing horror icons (new and old) with Caroline Williams (“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2”) and Simon Barrett, (co-director of “V/H/S”). After watching this film. I was a little freaked out and very shocked, which to me means that this was very successful.

Official Premise: After a lapse in her relationship with her lover (Katie Stegeman) forces twenty-something party girl Samantha (Najarra Townsend) to move back in with her overbearing mother (Caroline Williams, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2), things seem to be at an all-time low. But the devil-may-care Samantha soon finds escape in a one-night stand with a mysterious man (Simon Barrett, V/H/S) who leaves her hung-over, guilt-ridden and infected. Uncertain of the disease or the man who gave it to her, Samantha attempts to hide it from her loved ones. But she soon realizes that she is not just the victim of an STD, but rather the host of something much more catastrophic, and that she and those around her are in mortal danger.

IFC Midnight is the studio behind this release and I love that they keep releasing really interesting and unique indies like “Contracted”. Last year, they delivered some awesome films and I can’t wait to see what they have planned for the rest of the year. One thing, I am a bit bummed about is that this is a DVD release only. I would have loved to seen this get a Blu-ray release. In terms of special features, there is some decent content. There is a great commentary track with director Eric England, editor Josh Ethier, cinematographer Mike Testin and composer Kevin Riepl, as well as another commentary with director Eric England and cast included. There is a behind-the-scenes look into “The Making of Contracted”. There is Najarra Townsend audition footage, as well as an Animated pitch for the film and a trailer included.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Ranma ½ Set 1”

Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Viz Media
DVD Release Date: March 25, 2014
Run Time: 530 minutes

Series: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

Ranma ½ started off as an manga series back in 1987 in Japan, which was turned into a TV series shortly after in 1989. This is way before Japanese anime hit the US. The series got big here probably around the early 90’s and this and “Dragon Ball Z” were two of my favorite anime series growing up. Ranma ½ ius definitely unique and is an interesting blend of romance, comedy, action and marital arts. Thanks Viz Media this series is getting presented in high definition for the first time ever. Set 1 includes the first 23 episodes of the show, so since there are over 140 episodes total I would expect at least an additional six releases over the next year. If you are a fan of this series, then this is a new brainer.

Official Synopsis: From the legendary oeuvre of master creator Rumiko Takahashi, the mixed-up, madcap, martial arts romantic comedy Ranma ½ returns! After taking a surprise dip in a cursed spring while on a training journey in China, martial artist Ranma Saotome and his father, Genma, aren’t quite themselves anymore. Now Ranma turns into a girl whenever he’s splashed with cold water, and Genma turns into a panda. Their new forms cause nothing but confusion at the Tendo dojo, where Soun Tendo is waiting to introduce one of his three daughters to Ranma… as his fiancée. Turns out Genma and Soun arranged the match long ago, but the girl, Akane, and the boy, Ranma, aren’t exactly crazy about the idea, or each other! Or are they? Watch the gender switching, jealous rages, and martial arts battles unfold all over again!

Having watching this show on bootleg VHS tapes growing up, these 1080p transfers are stunning with high quality encodes created using the original Japanese Blu-ray masters. Fans are able to enjoy each episode with an  uncropped, 4:3 aspect ratio. Another first time for this release is that all episodes are arranged in the original Japanese episode order. There are both lossless tracks available for the original Japanese (with English subtitles) and the English dub, and a secondary subtitle track is available for signs and songs. The box presentation also for this set is amazing coming in a premium chipboard box with gold foil stamping with art illustrated by Rumiko Takahashi. Inside it also includes a 64-page booklet with a full color episode guide and a manga re-master sampler.

If you were satisfied with all that, wait there is still more in this Limited Edition box set. There are some decent extras including an exclusive “We Love Ranma: Part 1” Manga Re-Mastering Interview with VIZ Media editor Hope Donovan, which talks about the processes behind the latest manga release. There is two great extras taken from 2013 New York Comic Con this past year with “Ranma ½ Panel Footage” and “VIZ Media Events Highlight Reel”. Lastly there are upcoming episode previews and trailers included here. Can’t wait for Set 2! Keep them coming Viz!

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Blu-ray Review “The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923)”

Actors: Lon Chaney
Directed by: Wallace Worsley
Format: Black & White, Silent, Subtitled
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Flicker Alley
DVD Release Date: March 18, 2014
Run Time: 112 minutes

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

When I see that a film is being released from the company Flicker Alley, I know I have to take closer look. Their most recent venture brings the Lon Cheney Classic, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923)” to Blu-ray for the very first time with this beautiful new restoration. Lon Chaney really embodied the character of Quasimodo and feels like he came right off the pages of original illustrations of Victor Hugo’s novel. When you look back to over 90 years ago, this film had quite the issue during the production, which makes for a great story. The sets at the Universal back lots too up nineteen acres of space and filming took six months to complete. If you are fan of this film, this is a most own.

Official Premise: Gothic drama in which the hideously deformed bell-ringer Quasimodo (Lon Chaney) lives in the bell-towers of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. He strikes out viciously at the city folk after their constant taunting, but is saved from their wrath by a beautiful gypsy girl, Esmeralda (Patsy Ruth Miller). When she is accused of stabbing her lover, Quasimodo spirits her away into the bell-tower, but their friendship ends in tragedy.

Now the rest why I love Flicker Alley’s releases is because they really put a lot of work into their releases. This Blu-ray is mastered from a multi-tinted 16mm print struck in 1926 from the original camera negative. In case you are wondering why that is because the original 35mm print did not survive over the years. Since this film is over 90 years old, there is some visible wear in the source material but it was cleaned up as good as it could due to digital restoration. Flicker Alley is claiming that this is the best representation of the film currently available and I definitely agree. Top it off with an amazing new symphonic score arranged by Donald Hunsberger was recorded in the Czech Republic by a full orchestra conducted by Robert Israel and we have a winner.

If you think since they spent all that time on the Blu-ray restoration that there wasn’t going to be any bonus materials you would be wrong. There is an essay and optional audio commentary by Chaney scholar Michael F. Blake. There is rare footage (show in 480i) of Chaney out of makeup on the Cathedral set. “Alas and Alack” is included, which is a 1915 short film in which Chaney plays a hunchback. There are over 100 original production and publicity stills in the Dynamic HD photo gallery. Lastly we get a very high quality digital reproduction of the original souvenir program.

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