DVD Review “Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness – The Scorpion Sting”

Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: DreamWorks Animation
DVD Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 154 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

There is something about “Kung Fu Panda” that you can’t help be love. I am a huge fan of the two movies and I have been loving the TV series as well “Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness”. “The Scorpion Sting” is the latest DVD collection of episodes from this series and it is jam-packed with action, comedy and a whole lotta Po, who is everyone favorite Panda. If you love “Kung Fu Panda”, then you are going to love this show for sure! Even my 16 month old daughter loves this show and walks around with her plush doll screaming “Po”, so I think they are on to something here!

Get ready for more high-kicking action and fur-flying fun in this awesome animated TV series based on the Academy Award-Nominated hit movie Kung Fu Panda*! He may not be your typical warrior, but Po packs an arsenal of martial arts skills as big as his heart…and his stomach. Always ready to fight for what’s right, Po and the Furious Five—Tigress, Monkey, Mantis, Crane and Viper—face exotic dangers at every turn, including a pair of magic shoes with an evil “sole,” and Scorpion, one of the sharpest villains in all the land!

This DVD contains over two hours of episodes including the following: “Scorpion’s Sting”, “Crane On A Wire”, “Love Stings”, “Kung Shoes”, “Owl Be Back”, “Qilin Time”, “Monkey in the Middle”. I also recently received a DVD volume for the show “Monsters vs. Aliens” and that also included a Digital copy download for each of the episode, I am surprised that this one did not since it would be a great added feature for sure. Also included though as a bonus is the “Kung Fu Panda: Scorpion Maze” App, which is available for download on iOS and Android devices. It is a fast-paced and addictive arcade-style game and ton of fun. If you enjoyed DVD, this you will be excited to find that that in Spring 2014 the next DVD is being released called, “The Midnight Stranger”. Keep ’em coming!

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: awesomeness, dvd, fu, kung, legends, panda, ...

DVD Review “Monsters vs Aliens: Cloning Around”

Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Dreamworks Video
DVD Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 176 minutes

Our Score: 3 out 5 stars

DreamWorks Animation is known for turned their successfully films franchises into successful animated shows. They did it with “Madagascar”, “Kung Fu Panda”, “How to Train Your Dragon” and even “The Croods” is already on its way to the small screen. “Monsters vs. Aliens” is the latest of the films to be given the TV treatment. I have to admit, I wasn’t a huge fan of the film itself. I thought it was good but not the best thing to come out of DreamWorks Animation. I also feel that maybe its time has passed a little. I could have seen this be more appealing a few years ago but with no sequel following the first film, this series is not Dreamworks hottest property. The episodes are still worth watching if you like the film.

Official Premise: Get ready for a world of hilarious monster mischief and alien antics in this all-new animated TV series inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s ginormous hit movie Monsters vs. Aliens. Join team leader Susan, muscle-bound Link, ingenious Dr. Cockroach, Ph.D., and B.O.B., the gelatinous blob, as the residents of the government containment area embark on fun-filled adventures under the not-too-watchful eye of General Monger!

The following episodes are included: “Welcome to Area Fifty-Something”, “It Came…On a Field Trip / Educational Television”, “Danger Wears a Diaper / The Toy From Another World”, “Flipped Out / The Wormhole Has Turned”, “The Bath Effect / The Fruit of All Evil”, “The Two Faces of Dr. Cockroach / The Thing With One Brain”, “Fremeny Mine / Maximum B.O.B.”, “Night of the Living Dog / Attack of the Movie Night”. Like “The Penguins of Madagascar”, the episodes are 11 minutes each, which does works well for the show and keeps it fast pace. This DVD does not come with special features besides the episodes but within those episodes there are nearly three hours of action and comedy. Also included is a digital copy of the episodes and game app collection. There is also a promise of further installments with “Supersonic Joyride” arriving on DVD Spring 2014, so keep an eye out for more.

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Blu-ray Review “Pacific Rim”

Actors: Charlie Hunnam, Idris Elba, Rinko Kikuchi, Charlie Day, Ron Perlman
Directors: Guillermo Del Toro
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 131 minutes

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

“Pacific Rim” is one of the most unique and also riskiest films of the year. When it premiered in theaters it was out-grossed by the piece of shit movie “Grown Ups 2”, which is a sad day for moviegoers. Guillermo Del Toro is one of the best directors in Hollywood and he has such a creative mind. I just wish that America will get smart, stop seeing mindless garbage and actually watch a film that is not a sequel, remake, prequel or whatever else. “Pacific Rim” is easily one of the best films of the year. It is epic, action packed and visually amazing. I haven’t seen visual effects as great as this film since “Avatar”. I have a feeling that this film is going to become quite the classic overtime and I am sure that this franchise is not over just yet since del Toro has some decent pull (see what he has done with the “Hellboy” franchise). If you haven’t seen this yet, I would definitely recommend checking out this film as you will not be sorry.

Official Premise: When legions of monstrous creatures, known as Kaiju, started rising from the sea, a war began that would take millions of lives and consume humanity’s resources for years on end. To combat the giant Kaiju, a special type of weapon was devised: massive robots, called Jaegers, which are controlled simultaneously by two pilots whose minds are locked in a neural bridge. But even the Jaegers are proving nearly defenseless in the face of the relentless Kaiju. On the verge of defeat, the forces defending mankind have no choice but to turn to two unlikely heroes a washed up former pilot (Charlie Hunnam) and an untested trainee (Rinko Kikuchi) who are teamed to drive a legendary but seemingly obsolete Jaeger from the past. Together, they stand as mankind’s last hope against the mounting apocalypse.

When it comes down to it, what guy (or girl for that matter) doesn’t love the idea of giant monsters vs. giant robots? This is a real dream come true, no question. If you love films like “Godzilla”, then will be right up your alley. The cast of the film may not include some of the most recognizable A-list names but the cast is nonetheless quite awesome. Charlie Hunnam, who is know best for his role in “Sons of Anarchy”, steps up and delivers a great leading role. Idris Elba (“Thor”, “Prometheus”) is also quite bad-ass as well. I was a little bit taken back that the funny-man, Charlie Day (“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”), was cast but he was a great asset to the film. Lastly, del Toro reunited with Ron Perlman yet again with him playing Hannibal Chow, the fan-favorite in the film. Perlman has worked with Hunnam before with “Sons of Anarchy” and Frankie Goes Boom”.

Warner Bros delivered one of the best Blu-ray releases of the year, no question. In this combo pack, we get a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet. The 1080p transfer is absolutely stunning. I would personally recommend watching this film in 3D if possible but the 2D version of the film still works so well, just missing the added depth. The film uses a great wealth of digital effects but they are so done so well that the film just looks like it is actually real. When I saw “Oz The Great and Powerful”, I couldn’t help but vomit a little watching it cause it just looked so damn fake. “Pacific Rim” has a perfect blend of practical/CGI effects and amazing looking sets with unbelievable production design. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is absolutely perfect. The scale of the film is so large and it just sounds so amazing. Ramin Djawadi’s score, who is known best for “Game of Thrones”, delivers one of my favorite scores of the year and it sounds amazing on this track.

The special features are absolutely jam-packed and deliver an amazing punch. There is a must-listen audio commentary from Guillermo del Toro, who really shows his love for the film and gives such an in-depth look into the production. There are thirteen “Focus Points”, running just over an hour. The featurettes included: “A Film by Guillermo del Toro”, “A Primer on Kaijus & Jaegers”, “Intricacy of Robot Design”, “Honoring the Kaiju Tradition”, “The Importance of Mass and Scale”, “Shatterdome Ranger Roll Call”, “Jaegers Echo Human Grace”, “Inside the Drift”, “Goth-Tech”, “Mega Sized Sets”, “Baby Kaiju Set Visit”, “Tokyo Alley Set Visit” and “Orchestral Sounds from the Anteverse”. So we get all this and it is only disc one. The rest of the amazing extras are included on the second disc.

Disc two starts off with an amazing interactive look into “The Director’s Notebook” including another six featurettes. There is a great visual effects featurette with “The Digital Artistry of Pacific Rim”. “The Shatterdome” is a great collection of the films art and concept designs. There are four pretty decent deleted/extended scenes: “The Wall of Life/Rations,” “Excuse Me,” “Theft” and “Catch You in the Drift, Dad.”. There is a look into the film’s four sequences in “Drift Space”. Lastly there is a gag reel included lead by the very funny Charlie Day and Ron Perlman. Warner Bros really delivered here with this release and did not cheap out like a few of this summer’s other big box office hits like “Star Trek Into Darkness”. They made this release for the fans of the film and they will be left very satisfied and hopefully held off until we (hopefully) get a sequel in the near future.

Pacific Rim is available on 3D+Blu-ray Combo Pack 10/15/13 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/PacRimWBShop

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Blu-ray Review “Maniac (2013)”

Actors: Elijah Wood, Nora Arnezeder
Directors: Franck Khalfoun
Rated: Unrated
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
Release Date: October 15, 2013
Run Time: 89 minutes

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

William Lustig’s 1980 cult film “Maniac” is a decent film but has never one of my favorites. This remake was written by Alexandre Aja (“The Hills Have Eyes”, “Piranha”), who is know for remaking horror films the way they should be. So that was a eye-raiser for me personally. When I saw that Elijah Wood was taking the lead role, I became even more interested in this film. I loved the vision of the remake and thought it was a huge improvement on the original. It is daring, very intense and quite horrific. Wood is amazingly insane in the film and delivers a hell of a performance. Top that with an amazing score and some impressive visual effects from KNB Effects (“The Walking Dead”) and we got a winner here and a must see for any horror fan.

Official Premise: In this 21st century Jack the Ripper story set in present-day Los Angeles, Frank (Elijah Wood) leads a deceptively peaceful life. To the outside world, he’s a withdrawn and somewhat eccentric owner of a mannequin store. But his quiet façade masks an inner rage that forces him to brutally kill and scalp the women who get too close to him. When a young artist named Anna (Nora Arnezeder) appears one day at Frank’s shop and asks for his help with her new exhibition, Frank develops an obsession with her that threatens to completely destroy his already fragile psyche. Soon the streets become unsafe for any woman after dark as this newly awakened maniac begins to stalk and kill.

There has been some complaints about the film since a lot of it was shot in what I liked to call Elijah Wood-O-Vision, which was his point of view. I thought it was very effective to show the film in that first-person perspective. The 1080p transfer is solid in 2.35:1 aspect ratio while still keeping that gritty 70’s “42nd St & Broadway” feel. The film comes packed with a killer (no pun intended) DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The score has a very 70’s disco/electronic horror feel and it really works well with the film.

Overall IFC delivered an impressive Blu-ray release here. There is a super cool reverse cover art included. The special features are worth checking out for sure if you are a fan of the film. There is an awesome audio commentary track with Elijah Wood, director Franck Khalfoun, and executive producer Alix Taylor, which is quite detailed on the production. There is a super in-depth “Making Of” documentary, which runs over an hour. This includes some great behind-the-scenes look into the production along with cast/crew interviews. There is a Poster Gallery included for the three poster designs. Lastly there is a few short deleted scenes and a trailer included.

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Book Review “Frozen: A Sister More Like Me “

Author: Barbara Jean Hicks
Illustrator: Disney Storybook Art Team
Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Grade Level: 1 – 3
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: October 1, 2013

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Late last year, I heard that the team that brought us “Tangled” and “Wreck-it Ralph”, two of my favorite films ever, where bringing out a musical animated film based on “The Snow Queen”.  Here we are a mere few weeks from the film released date, titled “Frozen”. The film is already a merchandise giant and it is isn’t even out yet. I always own two other “Frozen” books besides this one now and there are at least another 10 different ones.  I love that Disney is really backing this title and I know that they are also not stupid cause this film is a cash cow. It introduces us to a new Disney princess and we all know how big Rapunzel from “Tangled” has become. If you have young kid, like myself, especially a girl then this is a great book to own to get you excited for the film.

The illustrations in this are so amazing. I love the look of the two sister’s Anna and Elsa. The colors are gorgeous and presented so beautifully. I expected the illustrations to be amazing since it was done by by one of the artists who worked on the film itself.  The story tells a new original story about Anna and Elsa and the challenges of finding a sister more like me.  The words flow so well page to page using rhymes and is so sweet. My 16 month old daughter brought this book over to me once we got it and said “Ok”, which means “Read me now!…please”. I read the entire 32 page book and she didn’t move once. I can’t wait to see this film and I am sure it is going to be yet another instant Disney classic. I also can’t wait to see what else Disney Press has planned for “Frozen”, keep ’em coming.

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CD Review: Korn “The Paradigm Shift”

Korn
“The Paradigm Shift”
Release Date: October 8, 2013
Label: Prospect Park (Universal)
Total Length: 42:53

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

It is crazy to think but I have been Korn fan for over 15 years. I have always been a fan of their albums. I was really hoping that “The Paradigm Shift” was going to continue that trend but I felt like it a bit of the same. I listened to the album about 10 times over before writing this and I just wasn’t blown away. I liked it but it didn’t really stand out to me. When I listen to an album, I look for a songs that make me stop what I am doing and actually listen.  This album works as background music but nothing overall special.

“The Paradigm Shift” is an important landmark for the band though since this album marks the first time that Brian ‘Head’ Welch has recorded with the band since their 2003 album “Take A Look In The Mirror” (also one of my favorite albums). He was always one of my favorites and recently returned to the bad after his religious departure years ago. I read a bunch of article online about this album that they delivered a new song and approach to their songs but I thought felt like it is typical Korn. I have to admit that the album does get a kick-ass start with “Prey for Me” and even “Love & Meth” is a sweet track but after that it just sort of blend together for me.

Track Listing:
1. Prey For Me
2. Love & Meth
3. What We Do
4. Spike In My Veins
5. Mass Hysteria
6. Paranoid And Aroused
7. Never Never
8. Punishment Time
9. Lullaby For A Sadist
10. Victimized
11. It’s All Wrong

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Book Review “Tinker Bell: An Evolution”

Author: Mindy Johnson
Series: Disney Editions Deluxe (Film)
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Disney Editions
Release Date: October 8, 2013

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t just love Tinker Bell? Ever since the first time that I watch Peter Pan, I fell in love. Her attitude was amazing and she is just such a great and lovable character. That feeling got even more amplified when I met my wife 15 years ago and found out that Tink was in fact her favorite character. Now that I have a daughter of my own, she has already watched all the “Tinker Bell” movies and have plenty of merchandise for her. This book takes us through the timeline of Tinker Bell from J. M. Barrie’s original version of the play “Peter Pan” to her latest Disney Fairies” franchise.

Official Premise: “Tinker Bell: An Evolution” is a full biography of the fiery little fairy. Designed in collaboration with the Animation Research library, it contains artwork that has never been seen before. The book is heavily illustrated, highly detailed, and will make the perfect gift for every grown-up who believes in fairies

It is crazy to think about but this character has actually been around for over a hundred years, which literally blows my mind. She started as a spec of light and now is one of the center of one of Disney’s biggest franchises She is a prominent part of the Disney parks as well and even opens every Walt Disney Pictures film with a sprinkling of pixie dust. The book is very impressive and is setup as a three act play. Act I takes us through the origin of Tink. Act II shows how Walt Disney created this amazing character and how she has developed. Act III covers Tink’s latest adventures in the recent years.

The images are super high quality and the book is such an easy read. If you are a fan of Tinker Bell, whether it is from “Peter Pan” or your kids with the Disney Fairies franchise, this book is a must own. Also in addition to this book, I have the privileged of knowing Margaret Kerry, who was the original model for Disney’s character and I know that she is also working on a personal memoir as well. So Tinker Bell may well be over 100 years old but she is still as hot as ever and showing no signs of slowing down ever, as long as people still believe in fairies 😉

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Film Review “Captain Phillips”

Starring: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi
Directed By: Paul Greengrass
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 2 hours 14 mins
Sony Pictures

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

From the director of “The Bourne Supremacy” and “The Bourne Ulitmatum” and the writer of “Flight Plan” and “The Hunger Games”; Tom Hanks stars as “Captain Phillips,” the true story about an American captain and his crew being hijacked by Somali Pirates off the coast of Africa in 2009.

While carrying supplies and food for poverty stricken villages in Somalia and Kenya, The Maersk Alabama became the first American ship in 200 years to be hijacked by pirates. The story follows Captain Richard Phillips (Tom Hanks) and the pirate captain, Muse (Barkhad Abdi), from the hijacking of the Alabama to the capture of the pirates and escape of captain and crew. We are introduced to the world of the Somali pirates, their planning (or lack there of) and their successful taking over of ships with just a small row boat with a motor. Because the Alabama was a freight carrier with a tall hull, the thinking on board was that there was little to no chance of the ship being hijacked. Which means the crew is less than prepared for the struggles they endure and are rendered helpless when their captain and leader is taken hostage by four pirates in a small covered life boat.

This story was broadcast all over the news in 2009 and captivated much of America at the time. Here we see the story that wasn’t presented on the news; the communication between Phillips and the pirates; the struggle of isolation and not knowing. The film also takes you into the chase by the US Navy and the attempted rescues that take place.

In my opinion the film ran a little too long. If you’re familiar with the story and the outcome before watching the movie you’ll find yourself sitting there for the last 30 mins just waiting for the end. However, if you have no recollection of the incident, as surprisingly some people around me in the theatre weren’t, it is a suspenseful ride throughout. This film is about courage, trust, and determination and you see it at both sides of the spectrum. Tom Hanks is, well, Tom Hanks; you know he is going to deliver in any role he takes on. But it’s the crew of pirates that really make the film and truly build the story. First time actors Barkhad Abdi, Barkhad Abdrahman, Faysal Ambed, and Mahat Ali all deliver performances that are so genuine, intimidating and sometimes frightening, it made me wonder if they were actors or the real deal!

I wouldn’t say this is a must see in the theaters but this film IS a must see. I have no doubts that Hanks, Paul Greengrass and the film itself will be recognized during award season.

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Book Review “Sofia the First: Holiday in Enchancia”

Author: Catherine Hapka
Illustrator: Disney Storybook Art Team
Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Sofia the First
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: October 29, 2013

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Sofia the First” is easily my favorite children’s television show on TV and Christmas is my favorite time of the time. Put the two together and we have a match made in heaven here with “Sofia the First: Holiday in Enchancia”, which is the latest book in the series from Disney Press. I really hope that Disney Junior is also planning on turning this story into a TV special like “Sofia the First: The Floating Palace”. This book is a perfect way to get in the mood for the holiday season. It blends the wonderful feeling of the holidays with the charm of “Sofia the First”.

The story focuses around a snowstorm that prevents King Roland from returning home in time for the holidays. Sofia leads her family on a brave expedition to find him, and shows Amber that spending the holiday with loved ones is better than any present. Containing the tradition with the last book, this one includes a very special appearance by Princess Aurora from “Sleeping Beauty”. Like the past books as well, this is wonderfully illustrated and really captures the holiday spirit.

Once thing that I realized is that this book is actually quite smaller than the first two installments in this series. I am not sure why Disney Press decided to take that route but to be honest, I like the smaller format much more. This book comes out in late October and will give parents plenty of time to pick up and spread some holiday joy to the family. I think I enjoyed this book as much as my daughter did (but I am also an old softie when it comes to the holidays). Keep them coming Disney Press, I can’t wait to see what you have planned next for this series!

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Book Review “Sofia the First: The Floating Palace”

Author: Catherine Hapka
Illustrator: Grace Lee
Age Range: 3 – 6 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Sofia the First
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: September 24, 2013

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Ever since “Sofia the First” premiered last year it has taken over and quickly has become a favorite among the preschool – kindergarten age group. My 16 month old daughter absolutely loves this show and cannot get enough of it. Whether it comes to the show, the music, toys and also books, we have been eating up as much as we can get. “Sofia the First: The Floating Palace” is the second book in the series and another great installment in the series.

If you like “Sofia the First”, then like myself you have been seeing commercial of “The Floating Palace”, which airs on Disney Junior on November 24th and is the show’s first ever prime-time special. I am sure that it is only the first of many more amazing specials to come. The premise takes place during Sofia’s family vacation on a floating palace, Sofia befriends a mermaid, and through their friendship she helps save the mermaid’s kingdom and brings their two worlds together. Like the last book the illustrations are fantastic and overall Disney Press has delivered another impressive book.

This book also brings has a special appearance from Disney Princess Ariel from “The Little Mermaid”. My daughter has been watching “The Little Mermaid” on Blu-ray about five times a week since it recently came out on Blu-ray and this book couldn’t come at a more perfect time. She immediately was screaming at the book “Ariel” and “Fia” (as she called Sofia). It was super cute and I know that this is going to become a must read daily! Can’t wait to see what Disney Press has planned next for this series.

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Film Review “Escape from Tomorrow”

Directed by: Randy Moore
Starring: Roy Abramsohn, Elena Schuber, Katelynn Rodriguez, Annet Mahendru, Danielle Safady and Alison Lees-Taylor
Distributed by: Producers Distribution Agency
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Earlier this year a very unique film premiered at 2013 Sundance Film Festival called “Escape from Tomorrow”. The film made headlines immediately since it was filmed in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and Epcot as well as Disneyland completely under the radar without anyone knowing. Everyone believed that Disney would immediately bury the film and let their lawyers loose on the people behind it. Surprising, the film did not disappear into oblivion instead Disney took an similar approach like SeaWorld did with the documentary “Blackfish”, they have just ignored it. Well after watching “Escape from Tomorrow” finally, I wish I would have ignored it as well.

Living in Orlando, FL, I was very curious about “Escape from Tomorrow” especially since I visit Walt Disney World on a weekly basis. I found it fascinating that these people have pulled off filming an entire film without anyone from Disney catching on. The premise for the film does not represent your typical Disney theme either. It follows a middle-aged husband and father that learns that he has lost his job while on vacation in Walt Disney World. While trying to enjoy their last day on vacation, he sets out to the park with his nagging wife (who I wanted to strangle) and snotty kids. He starts to experience very strange visions and encounters, while heading down a path of madness.

The aspect of the film that I did enjoy was that fact that it was shot in black and white, I felt that it added a certain eerie feel. The acting is not very impressive and I wish Roy Abramsohn would have appeared shirtless much less than he did. This had a cool idea and could have had potential but it falls short of delivering anything entertaining. The story has too many holes and doesn’t deliver. I am also not sure if the film was cut heavily since it first premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival because I have seen a 104 minute running time online but the version I saw was only 90 minutes. But honestly, though I do not think I would have been able to watch another 14 minutes added onto this film.

So nearly a year since its debut at Sundance, “Escape from Tomorrow” is now playing in select theaters across the country including the IFC Center in New York. Also like a lot of indie films recently, this is also available to watch VOD via iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Vudu and many other formats. I will leave it to you to decided whether or not to watch this. Even though I didn’t enjoy the film, I would still strangely recommend it since it does have that certain curiosity about it. But when I think about it further, I just think about flat story and the many missed opportunities.

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Film Review “Machete Kills”

Starring: Danny Trejo, Mel Gibson and introducing Carlos Estevez
Directed by: Robert Rodriguez
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 47 mins
Open Road

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

It’s well known that Machete Cortez don’t text. He also doesn’t tweet. Or smoke. But what he does do, better than anyone, is kick ass. And kill. Again.

While attempting to prevent an illegal sale of government weapons Machete (Trejo) is abducted and brought to the White House for a meeting with President Rathcock (Estevez – better known as the artist formerly known as Charlie Sheen). The president asks Machete to return to Mexico and find out where the weapons and drugs are entering our country. In return for his services Machete will find his criminal record erased and be made a U.S. Citizen. What could go wrong?

As someone that worked in the theatre business in the late 70s and early 80s many of my favorite memories involve working the all night weekend shows. Kung Fu. Horror. Sexploitation. We played them all. Some nights we would have 500 screaming patrons, hiding their eyes at the scary scenes, punching the backs of the seats in front of them during the fights and generally having a great time in the dark. “Machete Kills,” like the original “Machete” (and, for that matter, director Rodriguez’ and Quentin Tarantino’s “Grindhouse” double feature) pay homage to that great period of scratched prints, over the top bloodshed and women with machine-gun brassieres!

The story goes like this: once in Mexico Machete is instructed to visit Marcos Mendez (a hilarious turn by the Oscar-nominated Demian Bichir). Mendez has unfortunately developed a split personality. One moment he’s a strong willed crusader fighting for his people and the next a terrorist who has stolen a nuclear missile and pointed it towards Washington D.C. To ensure his plan won’t fail, he has had the trigger mechanism installed in his heart. If his heart stops, the missile fires. Machete also has to deal with a master-of-disguise hitman named the Chameleon and an industrial tycoon (Gibson, in fine form) with plans to fly his own space shuttle. Along the way there is enough action and blood to please even the most hardcore grindhouse fan.

As always, Rodriguez has peppered his cast with familiar faces, including “Modern Family” star Sofia Vergara as an over protective mother (and the owner of the aforementioned deadly bra), Amber Heard as Machete’s contact, whose cover is to constantly participate in Texas based beauty pageants and the quartet of Cuba Gooding, Jr, Walter Goggins, Lady Gaga and Antonio Banderas (a Rodriguez veteran) as the Chameleon. Also returning are “Machete” veterans Michelle Rodriguez and Tom Savini, whose first onscreen appearance drew cheers from the screening audience. Whether it’s because his Osiris was a memorable character in the first film or because he is one of the greatest make-up artists of all time, I don’t know. But either way it was applause well deserved. As Machete, Trejo is a straight faced, slow-burning time bomb. You can read his life story in the lines on his face.

Speaking of makeup, Greg Nicotero and his staff at KNB again outdo themselves in the gore department. Behind the camera Rodriguez moves the story along smoothly and Kyle Ward’s screenplay, based on a story by director Rodriguez and his brother, Marcel, keep the one liners coming.

If you’re looking for an in-depth, serious film I suggest you go see “Gravity.” But if you’re looking for a fun time in the dark, head to “Machete Kills.” And when it’s over get in line for “Machete Kills Again —In Space!”

 

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CD Review: Alter Bridge “Fortress”

Alter Bridge
“Fortress”
Universal
Producer: Michael Baskette
Tracks: 12

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

It’s been three years since the boys in Alter Bridge have released a new album and the wait is finally over! The group’s new album “Fortress” features 12 hard rocking numbers that follow closely in the footsteps of the bands previous releases “AB III” and “Black Bird”. Michael “Elvis” Baskette was once again chosen to man the role of producer for the album which is being released via Universal.

“Fortress” hits the ground running with the explosive opener “Addicted to Pain” which teeters on the verge of metal as guitarist Mark Tremonti lays down some heavy riffage while vocalist Myles Kennedy displays a vocal range that could rival that of Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson. The album continues its heavy approach with tracks like “Bleed it Dry”, “Cry a River” and “Farther Than the Sun” before giving way to more melodic numbers such as “All Ends Well” and “Lover”. The overall sound and production of the album is crisp and clear making each of the 12 performances enjoyable to listen to even for the most casual of listeners

Sometimes when bands use the same producer time and time again their sound and style starts to become complacent however Alter Bridge and Michael Baskette have broken that norm with “Fortress”. The album is powerful and does a good job showcasing the bands talent which in my opinion has been elevated to the next level. There were a times that I think Kennedy could have scaled some of his vocal performances back which would have allowed things to sit in the pocket better however when you have a range as wide as his you can’t totally fault the guy for using it. Hardcore Alter Bridge fans will certainly want to pick this release up as will any true fan of hard rock music.

Track Listing:
1.) Addicted to Pain
2.) All Ends Well
3.) Bleed It Dry
4.) Calm the Fire
5.) Cry a River
6.) Cry of Achilles
7.) Farther Than the Sun
8.) Fortress
9.) Lover
10.) Peace is Broken
11.) The Uninvited
12.) Waters Rising

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: alter, bridge, cd, fortress, review

CD Review: Panic! at the Disco “Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die”

Panic! at the Disco
“Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die”
Produced by: Butch Walker
Release Date: October 8, 2013
Label: Atlantic Records

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I was introduced to this band by my cousin back in 2005 with their album “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out”. The album has never left my phone over the years and is one of my favorites to rock out to. Unfortunately, I have felt that band has never really taken it up a notch since that album. I thought that they changed their sound too much with “Pretty. Odd”. I actually did like a few tracks on “Vices & Virtues” but nothing memorable. “Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die” still doesn’t top the band’s 2005 album either but I feel that it comes the closest since and has been a blast to listen to.

First of all, I had a feeling this album was going to rock just being it has a wicked cool title. If you are a Hunter S. Thompson fan than you will enjoy that “Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die” comes from his book “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas”. Easily one of my favorite quote of all-time. The album really brings up the energy that the band had with “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” and also tries a few different tricks, most successfully with “Miss Jackson” which is a funky yet rockin’ track.

The album is produced by Butch Walker (Fall Out Boy, Weezer). I love the energy in the tracks like “Vegas Lights” and “Nicotine”. But I have to give the most risky song on the album, “The End Of All Things”, props since it feels really personal and delivers on an emotional level. I would say if you haven’t been big on this band or are just finding this, this album is definitely worth taking a look at. I do warn you though get ready since from the very first track, this album kicks off and doesn’t look back until after it’s over.

Track Listing:
1. This Is Gospel
2. Miss Jackson (feat. Lolo)
3. Vegas Lights
4. Girl That You Love
5. Nicotine
6. Girls/Girls/Boys
7. Casual Affair
8. Far Too Young To Die
9. Collar Full
10. The End Of All Things

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, die, disco, live, panic, rare, ...

DVD Review “Nightmare Honeymoon (1974)”

Actors: Dack Rambo, Rebecca Dianna Smith, Pat Hingle
Studio: Warner Archive
DVD Release Date: October 2, 2013
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Run Time: 95 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

If you know horror then you know that the 70’s was filled with tons of revenge thriller probably thanks to Wes Craven’s “The Last House on the Left. “Nightmare Honeymoon” was adapted from the book “Deadly Honeymoon” by crime czar Lawrence Block. The film’s original poster included a classic 70’s quote, “Thank Heavens It’s Only a Movie!” Obviously if you hold it up to the craziness of today’s film it is not as brutal but still quite the shocker. So even though the film hasn’t really held up to time but it is still a decent entry in the genre and worth checking out again after all these years.

Official Premise: Newlyweds David and Jill Webb (Dack Rambo and Rebecca Dianna Smith) want nothing more than to consummate their marriage in New Orleans. But on their way to “The Big Easy,” they witness a murder. And when the sadistic killer (John Beck) realizes he’s been caught in the act, he knocks David unconscious and rapes Jill. Eventually, David learns the story of his wife’s assault, and sets out on a relentless vendetta to find the rapist and his partner and bring them to justice. Also starring Pat Hingle, Nightmare Honeymoon is filled with plot twists, compelling performances, crooked cops and one man’s unstoppable quest to right an unthinkable wrong.

Warner Archive has done this film very well. It has been newly remastered and looks pretty great even though it is only presented on DVD. This film has never been released before on DVD, so another notch in the belt for Warner Archive, who continues to deliver films like this to their fans. Another bonus for this release is that it actually contains two different cuts of the film both which are not rated. There is the “Alternate Theatrical Version” and also the “Alternate TV Version”. I think this is going to be a real draw for fans of this 70’s horror film.

 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1974, dvd, honeymoon, nightmare, review
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