Blu-ray Review “Doctor Who: The Complete Seventh Series”

Actors: Matt Smith, Jenna Coleman, Karen Gillan, Arthur Darvill, Paul Kasey
Writers: Steven Moffat
Number of discs: 4
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 705 minutes

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

What an amazing series! “Doctor Who: The Complete Seventh Series” was jam packed delivered some of the best episodes to date for this franchise. It also had a shift in companions with Amy and Rory Pond ending their run with The Doctor and Clara (and her exciting and curious story) jumping right in. As much as I really loved Amy Pond as a companion, I think that Clara’s character has so much depth behind her and it makes her so much more exciting. Plus it doesn’t hurt at all that Jenna-Louise Coleman is so cute and very easy on the eyes. Overall, we got an explosive seventh series, the first have of the series was gut-trenching with the Pond departing and then fun and exciting second half with Clara.We recently also found out that Matt Smith was departing from the role after the 50th Anniversary Special and 2013 Christmas Special. This is real sad new since I have really loved his take on the Doctor for the last three series but Peter Capaldi does look very promising.

Included here we get all 13 Series Seven episodes including both the 2011 and 2012 Doctor Who Christmas specials (“The Doctor, The Widow & The Wardrobe” and “The Snowmen”). There was some complaints from fans since the Christmas special was not included on “Doctor Who: Series Seven – Part 1 & 2 releases but I always prefer waiting for the “Complete” series releases. Speaking of complete though, I should make you aware that BBC has another surprise up it’s sleeve this November releasing “Doctor Who” Series 1-7 on Blu-ray in a Limited Edition Giftset / w/ Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote. That’s ride Whovians, that’s series 1-4 in HD Blu-ray, which has never before been avaiable. Just something to consider when making up that Holiday wish list.

Official Synopsis: Matt Smith returns as the Eleventh Doctor faces new monsters and familiar foes like you’ve never seen them before. The first part of this series sees the Ponds (Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill) in their final voyage with The Doctor. They save a spaceship full of dinosaurs, don Stetsons in the Wild West and are even kidnapped by the Doctor’s oldest foe. But when they arrive in Manhattan, the Weeping Angels are waiting. Christmas brings with it a new companion for The Doctor named Clara (Jenna-Louise Coleman). But how, where and when will he meet her again? And how does this Impossible Girl defy death? The final eight episodes of Series Seven finds The Doctor and his new companion battling monsters on distant alien planets, trapped on a Russian submarine with a deadly passenger, chasing terrifying ghosts, and coming face to face with an army of upgraded Cybermen, all while The Doctor’s oldest secret threatens to be revealed.

The Complete Seventh Series includes the following episodes and specials: “The Doctor, The Widow & The Wardrobe” (2011 Christmas Special), “Asylum of the Daleks,” “Dinosaurs on a Spaceship,” “A Town Called Mercy,” “The Power of Three,” “The Angels Take Manhattan,” “The Snowmen” (2012 Christmas Special), “The Bells of Saint John,” “The Rings of Akhaten,” “Cold War,” “Hide,” “Journey to the Center of the TARDIS,” “The Crimson Horror,” “Nightmare in Silver” and “The Name of the Doctor.”

I have to admit, BBC has always given this series a lot of love when it comes to their releases. Even though, series 1-4 has never been released on Blu-ray (now will be resolved this November), they have done very well with their Blu-ray releases. The 1080p transfer on these episodes are very impressive and sharp within their aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The audio tracks also deliver quite well with their DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. This series also seemed to be expanding the scale of the show as well. The episodes felt much bigger and epic than in the past and the impressive audio and video presentations were there to support that new change.

The special features are epic just like the series. BBC does not disappoint here at all. There are Behind-the-scenes featurettes for every episode of Series 7 including Christmas episode “The Snowmen”. There are interviews with Matt Smith and Jenna-Louse Coleman from BBC AMERICA’s “The Nerdist” (one of my favorite shows on BBC). There are seven additional all-new featurettes “Inforarium”, “Clara and the TARDIS”, “Rain Gods”, “The Making of the Gunslinger”, “Creating Clara”, “Last Days of the Ponds” and “Pond Life”. Each of these go into great detail on their respective topic, must watch! There are four “Doctor Who Specials” including “The Science of Doctor Who”, “Doctor Who in the US”, “The Companions” and “Doctor Who at Comic Con”. There are great short prequels included for the following episodes: “The Doctor, The Widow and The Wardrobe”, “Asylum of the Daleks”, “The Snowmen”, “The Bells of Saint John” and “The Name of the Doctor”. Lastly there our audio commentary tracks for the following episodes “The Snowmen”, “Cold War”, “Hide” and “The Crimson Horror”

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Film Review “My Lucky Star”

Starring: Ziyi Zhang, Leehom Wang
Directed by: Dennie Gordon
Not Rated
Running time: 1 hour 45 mins
China Lion Films

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Sophie (Zhang) is a dreamer. While working her dull, unexciting job selling vacation packages over the phone she longs for the adventures she dreams up and home and puts on paper. Sophie likes to draw comics and submits them for publication. The latest one features a handsome, suave secret agent, whom she fantasizes about meeting one day. When she wins an all expense paid trip to Singapore that day comes sooner than expected.

Deftly directed by Dennie Gordon, who also used her skill to help make David Spade appealing in “Joe Dirt,” “My Lucky Star” is James Bond-lite – from the opening credits on- with a twist. Here the smart one is Sophie herself, with the occasional help provided by the object of Sophie’s attention and imagination: David (Wang). The story deals with a diamond (the “Lucky Star” of the title) Sophie thinks she won as part of her vacation package. The diamond is being kept in a case built to withstand an atomic blast. When Sophie tries to obtain the diamond she is made to luck the case so that she can only open it. She does this by kissing the case shut, which makes it bad luck for anyone interested in the contents of the mysterious case.

What is amazing about “My Lucky Star” is that it takes what is really a one note concept – artist begins to live her drawings – and turns it into a film that not only holds your imagination but helps to fuel it. Zhang, currently helping to kick box-office butt with the martial arts biography “The Grandmaster,” is perfect as Sophie. Curious as to what life has to offer, Zhang gives Sophie a true sense of naiveté that those around her recognize. Her life is a comic book and she does her best to fit in. In a way, Sophie is a lot like John Cusack’s character, Hoops McCann, in “Better Off Dead.” Zhang is also surrounded by some great on-screen talent, including the handsome Wang, who gives off an aura of coolness with just a glance.

Technically the film is solid. Director Gordon keeps the story flowing smoothly and the photography, by cinematographer Armando Salas, is picture perfect. From Beijing to Macau to Singapore, not an inch of screen time is wasted.

“My Lucky Star” is currently in limited release in the following cities: Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto, Vancouver, and the Washington, D.C.

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Blu-ray Review “I Spit On Your Grave 2”

Actors: Jemma Dallender, Joe Absolom
Directors: Steven Monroe
Rated: Unrated
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 106 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

I think I may have mellowed out in my taste for certain types of films. When I saw the original “I Spit On Your Grave” from the late 70’s, I thought it was like nothing I have ever seen. In 2010, the film was remade by director Steven R. Monroe and I enjoyed it. It took the film to a new place and gave it an updated feel but the themes were a little too strong for me personally. This time around, I thought it was a bit of overkill (maybe it is having a newborn daughter). Jemma Dallender does a great job in this very trying and difficult role. I enjoy horror but this brand is getting a little much for me to stomach recently. This feels a little bit unnecessary.

Official Premise: “I Spit On Your Grave 2” stars beautiful newcomer Jemma Dallender (“Community”) as Katie, a beautiful girl on her own in NY, who is trying to make it in the cutthroat world of modeling. When Katie innocently accepts an offer to have new photos taken for her portfolio, the experience quickly turns into an unthinkable nightmare. Severely beaten, battered, bruised, and broken, she will have to tap into the darkest places of the human psyche to not only survive her ordeal, but to ultimately find the strength to exact her brutal revenge.

Anchor Bay delivered this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray and DVD. The 1080p transfer looks good despite the gritty feel of the film. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also delivers the suspense from Corey Allen Jackson’s score (He also did the score for 2010’s “I Spit On Your Grave”. In terms of special features, there is nothing like besides a few deleted scenes. I think this could have benefits from a behind-the-scene featurette or even a commentary track from cast/crew.

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CD Review: “Gravity” Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Composer: Steven Price
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Running Time: 72 minutes
16 Tracks
Label: Watertower Music

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When I saw the trailer to “Gravity”, I was just blown away. I knew it was going to be something special. I was really hoping that the score was going to be equally as amazing. I just had a feeling…and I was completely right! Already one of my favorite scores of the year, no question. The score is simple and calm yet packs a certain suspense and will keep you on your toes. Having seen the film already, you are able to visualize the score as it plays out in your head. It sets up the scene very well for the final tracks with are heart-pounding. I left this score on loop and it only gets better with each listen. Highly recommend this score.

Steven is definitely a composer to keep an eye out for. His previous work including 2011’s “Attack the Block” and this summer’s “The World’s End”.  I have to admit, I have not heard those scores but I know that I will be checking them out now for sure. I really like this style on this score and I think it really suits the movie very well.  For me if you are listening to the score and it makes you want to stop what you are doing and watch the movie then it has achieved its purpose. It is mysterious and calm like the dead of space and I really felt those themes in the music. I think that there is going to be a lot of greatness coming from this guy and I can’t wait to see what he does next!

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Book Review “Journey” by Aaron Becker

Author/Illustrator: Aaron Becker
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Candlewick
Release Date: August 6, 2013

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Kids have the best imaginations. I remember when I was a kid, I used to dream up the craziest stuff and wish that it would all come true. I would give anything to be back in that world. When I saw “Journey”, I felt that connection. “Journey” is a wordless picture book about self-determination and unexpected friendship. I wasn’t blown away by the illustrations but I enjoy the encouragement for kids to follow their own adventures.

Official Premise: A lonely girl draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and through it escapes into a world where wonder, adventure, and danger abound. Red marker in hand, she creates a boat, a balloon, and a flying carpet that carry her on a spectacular journey toward an uncertain destiny. When she is captured by a sinister emperor, only an act of tremendous courage and kindness can set her free. Can it also lead her home and to her heart’s desire?

I thought the line work and colors usage was interesting, I wasn’t completely in love with it but it did sort of draw me in. This book was inspired by Author/Illustrator Aaron Becker’s own traveling to various places including Kenya, Japan, Sweden, and Tahiti, which fed his imagination for “Journey”. This was his first book and I am curious to see what he is going to come up with next.

 

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Game Review “Castle The Detective Card Game”

Designed by: Matt Hyra
Format: Board/Card Game
Cryptozoic Entertainment
Requires 1 to 5 players
10-45 minutes playtime

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Castle” is easily one of the best shows on TV. I love everything about the show from the clever stories to the fantastic cast. When I saw that Cryptozoic Entertainment released a card game based around the show, I knew that I had to give it a go. In the world of high-def video games, this was a welcomed change and I feel that people sometimes forget what it is like to play a actually card game. The game is very easy to pick up and once you get started tons of fun for everyone involved. Highly recommend for any fan of “Castle”. I see myself playing this game quite often over the next few months.

Official Premise: “Castle The Detective Card Game” is your opportunity to gather clues, make deductions, and determine the murderer, just like Castle and Beckett do each week. As a new detective, you’ve been asked to assist on a slew of murders raging across the island of Manhattan. Do you have what it takes to catch a killer?

You can be one of six characters including Castle, Beckett, Esposito, Ryan, Lanie and The Captain, each of them have their own special ability that can be used once per game. The idea of the game is simple, there are a series of suspect cards and one each you place one poker chips on each (heads down) with the word “guilty” or “not guilty” written on them. Each of the suspect card have three investigations that are required to be made before you can confront. The investigation cards are dealt out to each player and on each turn you are able to pick or dispose a card. The deck consists of of eighty-one cards with nine conditions including investigate crime scene, poker game consult, autopsy and more.

The game itself requires 1 to 5 players in order to play and the games can range from around 10 minutes to 45 minutes. In fact, the first game I played, I got three investigation cards that matched the required conditions on a suspect. I confronted that suspect and immediately got the guilty chip, so it is really all luck of the draw there. Other plays I played lasted much longer. The rules of the game vary due to the amount of people playing.

The game may not be the most difficult and complex game to play but there is tons of possibilities and due to the random choices, you can easily play this game many times before it gets repetitive. In fact, I would love it if Cryptozoic would release new suspects and investigation cards as an add-on bonus to this game, that would you can keep it fresh after playing for a while. Also “Castle” fans be aware that if you purchase the “Season Five” DVD, you get a bonus investigation card as well. Have fun!

 

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DVD Review “Sofia the First: Ready to Be a Princess”

Actors: Ariel Winter, Sara Ramirez, Wayne Brady, Tim Gunn
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 112 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have a 16 month old daughter and every since the very first commercial for this show she (and my wife and I) have been in love with this show. Sofia is so sweet and the morals of the show are great for kids to grow up with and learn. The show is also packed with some amazing very fun songs. “Sofia the First: Ready to Be a Princess” contains five episodes from the first season, including “A Royal Mess”, “The Shy Princess” (which is my favorite episode to date), “Blue Ribbon Bunny”, “The Princess Test” (my second favorite) and “Two To Tangu”, which includes a special appearance from Princess Jasmine. If you have a young girl, I highly recommend this show and this DVD since it really delivers some of the best episodes so far.

Official Premise: Your favorite little princess-in-training returns for more music, majesty and magical fun, so get ready to have a ball with Sofia the First. Becoming royalty overnight is every girl’s dream, and Sofia is eager to prove she can be a true princess. Visit an enchanted circus, meet a pet dragon and soar through desert skies with Sofia and Amber on a magic carpet ride. But when their high-flying adventure veers off course, it’s special guest Princess Jasmine to the rescue with inspiring advice about trying new things, staying strong and trusting yourself. Sparkling with extraordinary songs, unforgettable characters and thrilling surprises, Ready to Be A Princess opens the door to a whole new world of kindness, helping others and being the best you can be.

The last “Sofia The First” DVD release was just the pilot feature length film, so I am glad to see that they included more than one episode here. I am hoping that they are going to be releasing these very often since we cannot get enough of this show. The DVD is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and a solid Dolby Digital 2.0, which works well with the music. There are no additional special features included here but there is a free bonus Dress-Up Play Set with Wardrobe. This is really cute and a great addition to this already great DVD release.

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DVD Review “Nichols: The Complete Series”

Starring: James Garner, Margot Kidder, Neva Patterson, John Beck, Stuart Margolin
Created by Frank R. Pierson
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 1225 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Prior to receive an email about this new DVD release from WB Archive, I have never heard of this TV series “Nichols” but I am a fan of James Garner. So I decided to check it out. The show was originally broadcasted during the 1971/72 season and only 24 episodes were made. Garner is great as always in this Western along with a pre-Lois Lane Margot Kidder but I didn’t lasso me in. I guess I am not the only one either as it didn’t last very long during back in the day.

Official Premise: James Garner is Nichols, the reluctant sheriff of a small Western town, in this quirky, offbeat series. It’s 1914 and a violence-weary Nichols (Garner) has returned to his Arizona home after 18 years in the army. Forced into becoming its new lawman by the tough and powerful rancher (Neva Patterson) whose family runs the town, Nichols refuses to carry a gun as he takes on bank robbers, Apaches, con artists, banditos and more, armed with only his wits and his charm.

The one thing this releases has going for it that it has been newly remastered and looks great for a show that is over 40 years old. It is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. For anyone who is a fan of the show, you can give thanks to WB Archive, since they recovered this lost series from oblivion with their Made To Order DVD service. The audio format included is a decent Dolby Digital track. There are no additional special features besides the 24 episodes.

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Blu-ray Review “The Frozen Ground”

Actors: Nicolas Cage, John Cusack, Vanessa Hudgens, Dean Norris, Kevin Dunn
Directors: Scott Walker
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: October 1, 2013
Run Time: 105 minutes

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

I am a sucker for anything that Nicolas Cage does.  The guy is so cool that he is featured not once but twice on the cover of this Blu-ray. He is joined with an impressive cast including John Cusack (playing the serial killer Robert Hansen) and Vanessa Hudgens (she is quite impressive). I have to admit, the film was really well done and drew me in from the moment it starts. It follows the true story behind the hunt for Robert C. Hansen, one of America’s most notorious serial killers who brutally murdered 17 young women over the course of 12 years in the town of Anchorage, Alaska. After watching the film, I did some more research on the true story and that is how I know when I really enjoyed a film that it leaves thinking afterwards.  This film should have received more attention in theaters since it definitely deserves it.

Official Premise: Based on a shocking true story of Alaskan State Trooper Jack Halcombe (Nicolas Cage) as he sets out to end the murderous rampage of Robert Hansen (John Cusack), a serial killer who has gone unnoticed for 13 years. As the bodies of street girls start to pile up in Anchorage, fear strikes a chord with the public. Risking his life, Halcombe goes on a personal manhunt to find the killer before the next body surfaces. When a seventeen year old escapee (Vanessa Hudgens) reveals key information about the case, Halcombe is finally on the trail of the killer. But will he catch him in time to save the next victim?

Lions Gate delivered a solid Blu-ray presentation (as always). Included is a Blu-ray disc and also a Digital HD Ultraviolet copy as well. The 1080p transfer looks great and really captures the landscape of Alaska. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is solid as well and works with the crime-thriller. The special features are also impressive on this release. There is a solid commentary track with director/writer Scott Walker and producer Mark Ordesky and Jane Fleming. There are some
Deleted Scenes included along with additional ommentary by Director Scott Walker. There is a behind-the-scenes featurette with interviews from the cast/crew, along with a few extended interviews with cast and crew. Lastly there is a featurette looking into the “Anatomy of a Serial Killer”. Solid extras for a solid film.

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Blu-ray Review “Disconnect”

Starring: Jason Bateman, Andrea Riseborough, Alexander Skarsgård, Hope Davis, Frank Grillo, Michael Nyqvist
Director: Henry Alex Rubin
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 115 minutes

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

Although “Disconnect” has a terrible box art, it drew me in with its impressive cast. Jason Bateman, Alexander Skarsgård and Hope Davis all give terrific performances in this very gripping and impressive drama. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was quite glad that I checked this film out. Not sure why it never made it in theaters, especially with Bateman’s success with “Identity Theif” and “Horrible Bosses” and Skarsgård’s draw from “True Blood”. I watch a lot of horror films personally and this was a nice change of pace and very engaging. It is also quite relevant in today’s times of everyone being disconnected, if you may, with smart phones, Facebook etc.

Official Premise: A hard-working lawyer, attached to his cell phone, can’t find the time to communicate with his family. A couple is drawn into a dangerous situation when their secrets are exposed online. A widowed ex-cop struggles to raise a mischievous son who cyber-bullies a classmate. An ambitious journalist sees a career-making story in a teen that performs on an adult-only site. They are strangers, neighbors and colleagues and their stories collide in this riveting dramatic thriller about ordinary people struggling to connect in today’s wired world.

Lions Gate packed in an impressive Blu-ray release. Included in a Blu-ray disc along with an Digital Ultraviolet copy included. The 1080p transfer and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 work for the film but don’t get pushed to far. The transfer is sharp and Max Richter’s score sounded great. The special features weren’t as impressive as the film. There is an audio commentary with Director Henry-Alex Rubin, which is a big waste of time to be honest. “Making the Connections: Behind the Scenes of Disconnect” runs nearly 30 minutes and is a great making-of feature with interviews from cast. “Recording Session of “On the Nature of Daylight” for Disconnect” is a short but neat look at a studio session for the film. Lastly there is a Theatrical Trailer included.

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Blu-ray Review “Room 237”

Actors: Bill Blakemore, Geoffrey Cocks
Directors: Rodney Ascher
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: MPI HOME VIDEO
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 102 minutes

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

I had someone ask me the other day while attending Halloween Horror Nights what was my favorite horror film and without even thinking I belted our “The Shining”…duh. Hands down, my favorite and still creeps me out and gets into my head as it did the very first time I watched it. In fact, I still remember today exactly when the first viewing was over 20 years ago. I have never know about all the proposed hidden meanings in the film before this documentary. Some of the theories really get you thinking are backed with impressive facts, while others are complete bullocks and will have you rolling your eyes. I like to think that I can be open-minded and took it for what it is and really got into the various different theories that were presented to be laying behind the lines of “The Shining” and overall I really enjoy this film.

Official Premise: In 1980 Stanley Kubrick released his masterpiece of modern horror, The Shining. Over 30 years later we re still struggling to understand its hidden meanings. In the 30 years since the film’s release, a considerable cult of Shining devotees has emerged, fans who claim to have decoded the film’s secret messages addressing everything from the genocide of Native Americans to a range of government conspiracies. Rodney Ascher’s wry and provocative documentary “Room 237” fuses fact and fiction through interviews with both fanatics and scholars, creating a kaleidoscopic deconstruction of Kubrick s still-controversial classic.

If nothing else there is a ton of great work and research that has gone into this documentary. You can tell that the team behind it really love this film and were excited to get a chance to allow people to see the film in a different and new set of eyes. If for nothing else, the film achieves success on that level. What I do know is that I have seen this film three times and I enjoy it more and more every time. IFC gave the film an impressive Blu-ray presentation. The 1080p transfer is solid and works well, as does the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. I wasn’t a huge fan of the score personally but it was well-presented nonetheless. IFC also delivered this in a cool slipcase, rounding out an overall impressive release and a must have for any true fan of “The Shining”.

After seeing this film for the first time a few months back, I was very excited to see what they would have in store in terms of special features. Well, I have to admit, I was not let down. There is great and highly recommend commentary track with Kevin McLeod, called “The mstrmnd Speaks”, adds some additional theories and in-side looks. “Secrets of The Shining” is a must-see panel discussion from the First Annual Stanley Film Festival. There are 11 additional scenes that did not make the final cut of the film. There is a featurette on “The Making of the Music”. Lastly, there is a Mondo Poster Design Discussion with Artist Aled Lewis and Trailers included.

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DVD Review “The Haunting of Helena”

Actors: Harriet MacMasters-Green, Sabrina Jolie Perez
Directors: Christian Bisceglia, Ascanio Malgarini
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Salient Media
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 90 minutes

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

I have to admit when it comes to horror films, good cover art really goes a long way. “The Haunting of Helena” hooked up me from the moment I saw the box and I knew that it was going to be a creepy ass film. I must give props to Bloody Disgusting Selects who have been releasing some pretty awesome horror films in the last few years. The film packed a bunch of really terrifying scares and really kept you at the edge of your chair. It also delivered a very interesting story which also drove you in on top along with some great visual effects. Definitely recommend for a good scare.

Official Premise: After a divorce, Sophia moves to the south of Italy with her daughter, Helena. Their new home, an austere building of the fascist age, hides a mysterious closet and a buried secret. After the loss of Helena’s first baby tooth, a chilling obsession begins. She collects her classmates’ fallen teeth with an urgent hunger and begins to see strange apparitions. It soon becomes clear that there is far more to this apartment that can be seen. Sophia finds herself in a terrifying fight to save her child while maintaining her sanity.

“The Haunting of Helena” was only released on DVD, which is sad because this could have been much better on Blu-ray. The film’s score is quite eerie and well-positioned with the scares. It could have benefited from the HD surround track. In terms of special features, I was pretty impressed as well the extras includes. There is a great behind-the-scenes look into the production. I really enjoyed the special effects breakdown featurette, since they did a really amazing job with them. Lastly there are some cast and crew interviews rounding out the extras.

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DVD Review “Breakout”

Starring: Brendan Fraser, Dominic Purcell and Ethan Suplee
Directed by: Damian Lee
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
DVD Release Date: September 17, 2013
Run Time: 89 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

Poor Brendan Fraser.  Man, I always give guy a chance but this film was really hard to finish. The plot starts off pretty interesting but really get quite repetitive and drawn out very quickly. Dominic Purcell is pretty bad ass, no question. Ethan Suplee does a good job as well playing a man with a mental handicap.  Overall, the acting feels very stiff from everyone. I definitely understand now why this film got banished direct-to-video. I know Brendan Fraser might be a draw but I would breakout of that urge and avoid this. There are no special features included on this DVD either, nor was this film released on Blu-ray disc.

Official Premise: An innocent camping trip takes a dark turn for a young brother and sister, when they witness a murder. The young siblings become the killers’ next target as they are chased and hunted through the wilderness. Serving time over a protest gone terribly wrong, their father, Jack Damson (Fraser), devises a plan to break out of prison and rescue his kids from the pair of criminals, Tommy (Purcell) and Kenny (Suplee). A fight for survival ensues in the action-packed thriller where the hunters become the hunted.

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Blu-ray Review “Halloween: 35th Anniversary Edition”

Actors: Jamie Lee Curtis, Donald Pleasence, P.J. Soles, Nancy Loomis
Directors: John Carpenter
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 91 minutes

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

With Halloween right around the corner, I always make sure to find time to watch one of my favorite horror films of all-time. “Halloween” is something that I feel confident calling the perfect horror film. It is celebrating its 35th anniversary and yet it has never lost a single ounce of its effectiveness. It has also never been really given a great Blu-ray release either.  But I am happy to say that Anchor Bay finally got it right this time and delivered this film in the best condition that I have ever seen it.  In fact, the transfer has been overseen and approved by the film’s original cinematographer, Dean Cundey. So I had a feeling that this was going to be quite awesome and I was not let down. “Halloween: 35th Anniversary” Blu-ray also comes in a super cool DigiBook package with great behind-the-scene black-and-white photos and text. A must own for any fan of this film and a great way to welcome the holiday season.

Official Premise: Halloween stars Jamie Lee Curtis (A Fish Called Wanda, True Lies) in her debut role. Anyone who’s ever watched a horror film in the last 35 years knows the story of Michael Myers, who as a child, butchered his sister with a kitchen knife. Committed to a mental institution and watched over by Dr. Loomis (Donald Pleasance, Halloween II, IV & V, Fantastic Voyage), he engineers his escape 15 years later, returning to his hometown of Haddonfield, Illinois on Halloween night to terrorize anyone who gets in his way, including babysitter Laurie Strode (Curtis).

If you recall the original Blu-ray release “Halloween”, hardcore fans complains about the transfers color timing and other issues but there is nothing to complain about here. Like I said above, this 1080p transfer is gorgeous and I have been more satisified watching this film then I was the first time I saw it on VHS tape (without my parents knowing over 20 years ago – sorry guys!) If the gorgeous transfer isn’t enough for you Anchor Bay also upgraded the audio track delivering us now with an all-new Dolby TrueHD 7.1 surround track. This 7.1 track is a thing of beauty.  I absolutely love Carpenter’s score for this film and it really works well with it. I wish there was an isolated score track. There is the original Dolby Digital 2.0 included for those purists out there.

In terms of special features, I can’t say that I am disappointed at all since there is a nice collection of goodies.  There is a brand new audio commentary track with Writer/Director John Carpenter and Actor Jamie Lee Curtis, who were reunited for this track.  It is a blast and honestly worth the purchase of the set alone. “The Night She Came Home!!” is another new feature, which runs about an hour and showcases Jamie Lee Curtis’ first (and supposedly only) convention visit last year. The rest of the extras are previously available including the behind-the-scenes look with “On Location: 25 Years Later”. There is a collection of scenes television cut scenes, which are cool to see them included. Lastly there are a trailer, some TV spots and radio spots included.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 35th, anniversary, bluray, edition, halloween, review, ...

Blu-ray Review “Hannibal: Season One”

Actors: Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, Caroline Dhavernas, Hettienne Park, Laurence Fishburne
Directors: David Slade, Guillermo Navarro, James Foley, John Dahl, Michael Rymer
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: September 24, 2013
Run Time: 561 minutes

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

There has no shortage of Hannibal Lecter in films over the last 25 years including, “Manhunter”, “The Silence of the Lambs”, “Hannibal”, “Red Dragon”, “Hannibal Rising”. Brian Cox, Anthony Hopkins and Gaspard Ulliel have all played the role of Hannibal over the years but I got to tell you Mads Mikkelsen really nails this character. He really does a great job and seals this show as a must watch. Laurence Fishburne is a beast and an awesome presence to the show. I wasn’t too familiar with Hugh Dancy but I am huge fan now as he also killed (pun intended) with this role. The show’s style is just so mesmerizing from the colors to the tone. I was in love with every episode. It is also quite brutal and may not be for those with a lack of stomach. Can’t wait for season two coming back sometime in 2014.

Official Premise: FBI Agent Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) hunts the most notorious serial killers. Graham is both gifted and cursed with an extraordinary ability: he can think like his prey, seeing what they see and feeling what they feel. What he doesn’t know is that his new partner is the most notorious serial killer of all. While pursuing an especially troubling, cannibalistic murderer, Special Agent Jack Crawford (Laurence Fishburne) teams Graham with a highly respected psychiatrist – a man with a taste for the criminally minded: Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen). Dr. Lecter tests Graham every step of the way, toying with him and playing a game all his own, while they work to unravel the mystery and catch the killer. Like only Lecter can, he twists Graham’s mind, daring him to question everything he knows about others…and himself.

Lionsgate Films really delivered an awesome Blu-ray presentation here. Besides the season’s 13 episodes, this three disc set also includes an episode that never aired and a “Producer’s Cut” versions of five others So it is a must revisit for fans of the series just for that alone. The episodes are gorgeous with their 1080p transfers in 1.78:1. Like I mentioned the style of the show, I just love the way it was shot and detail in this show just translate so well on this high def Blu-ray, especially Will’s “recreations” of the crime scenes. To accompany the video, the shows DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also hits a home run, especially with the very creepy and moody score from Brian Reitzell.

The special features are just as great as the first season. They are split over the three Blu-rays. Disc One includes an audio commentary track with Bryan Fuller, David Slade and Hugh Dancy on the pilot “Aperitif”. Must listen for sure. Also included are Pilot Episode Storyboards. Disc Two includes “Hannibal Reborn”, which is a cool featurette on the series with interviews including Martha De Laurentiis, the Executive Producer. “A Taste for Killing” is a fun look at the cannibalistic subtext of the character. Lastly there is a gag reel for those who can’t take the gory moments, or just a collection of spoofs.

Disc Three is another great audio commentary track with Bryan Fuller, David Slade and Hugh Dancy on the episode, “Savoreux”. Like the first pilot, also very enjoyable with some fava beans and a nice chianti ;-). “A Symphony for the Slaughter” is a great piece on the series’ composer, Brian Reitzell. “The FX of Murder” looks into the amazing visual and design effects from this show. Lastly there is a short deleted scene included. So that wraps it up and it left me feeling very satisfied even though we have to wait a few more months before we can get some new episodes. Almost forgot to mention that Lionsgate also delivers by included an HD digital download of this series, which can be redeemed on Ultraviolet sites.
 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, hannibal, review, season
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