Blu-ray Review “The Emperor’s New Groove / Kronk’s New Groove”

Starring: David Spade, John Goodman, Eartha Kitt, Patrick Warburton, Tracey Ullman, Wendie Malick
Director: Mark Dindal
Number of discs: 3
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Run Time: 150 minutes

The Emperor’s New Groove: 5 out of 5 stars
Kronk’s New Groove: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

Last year Disney started flooding the market with their less than par animated films on Blu-ray in these 2 Movie Collection sets. A few of them that we got “The Rescuers”/”The Rescuers Down Under”, “Pocahontas”/Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” and “Mulan”/”Mulan II”. This month we are getting a few more to add to our collections including “Atlantis: The Lost Empire”/”Atlantis 2: Milo’s Return”, “Lilo & Stitch”/”Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch” and this release “The Emperor’s New Groove”/”Kronk’s New Groove”.  I was never a huge fan of “Atlantis” but “Lilo & Stitch” is a Disney classic and “The Emperor’s New Groove” is an underrated film and one of my favorites.  I do not think that I can do a week without quoting this film at last one. “Pull the lever Kronk!….WRONG LEVER!” I will be wearing this Blu-ray out for sure.

Official Premise: Experience Disney’s outrageously funny animated comedies, The Emperor’s New Groove and Kronk’s New Groove – presented for the first time ever on Blu-ray, with perfect picture and sound. Featuring an all-star cast and the Academy Award-nominated song, “My Funny Friend And Me!” (best music, original song, Sting, 2000), this 2-movie collection is king-size fun for the entire family! When the young and spoiled Emperor Kuzco is transformed into a llama by his sinister advisor Yzma, it takes a thoughtful peasant to restore the kingdom and show Kuzco just how much fun it is to be true to yourself. Then laugh along with Yzma’s hilarious henchman Kronk as he cooks up big trouble in the hilarious sequel. These two comedy classics are better than ever on Disney Blu-ray!

The 2-Movie Collection release of The Emperor’s New Groove / Kronk’s New Groove is a 3-disc set. Which includes both films on one Blu-ray with each film also included on their own DVD. In terms of Blu-ray presentation, the 1080p transfers both looks great! The colors are vibrant and very sharp, especially on “The Emperor’s New Groove”.  “Kronk’s New Groove” doesn’t quite have that polished look to it but still very impressive. Both films come stocked with a standard, yet impressive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio tracks. “The Emperor’s New Groove” is a loud, funky and fun film. It features fun music and sounds great on this Blu-ray. “Kronk’s New Groove” doesn’t have the flair of the first film but also sounds very impressive for a direct-to-video entry.

Now we get to the special features, which is a real disappointment. “The Emperor’s New Groove” / “Kronk’s New Groove” does not have ANY special features included on the Blu-ray, only on the bonus DVD copies.  This is a real disappointment, especially with the first film’s audio commentary, which now can only be listened if you are watching the DVD of the film.  I would have loved to had the opportunity to watch it with the Blu-ray.  Same thing goes for the recently released “Lilo & Sitch 1 & 2” double feature Blu-ray as well.  Disney if you are reading this please cut it out with the double feature Blu-ray.  This issue is the result of that.

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Book Review “The Art of Monsters University”

Author: Karen Palik
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Book Length: 172 pages
Release Date: June 1, 2013

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When it’s comes to “Monsters Inc.”, it stole our hearts and of course laughs (spoilers alert, haha). Over the last decade or so the film continues to entertain and stands as one of Pixar’s most impressive films and we have been waiting to see more adventures with Mike and Sulley. Twelve years later, we are getting a prequel to the animated hit titled “Monsters University”, which follows the duo in school before they were on the scare floor. This book is being released by Chronicle Books, who handles most of the art of books for Disney and Pixar. They were also the publisher behind the art of for “Monsters Inc”. If you were a fan of that book, this is another gem from Chronicle. If you have never seen that book, this one really takes you into this film’s universe and makes you want to rush out and see this new film immediately.

The layout of the book is great and really has that college campus feel. I enjoyed the fact that you also get to see aspects of “Monsters Inc.” that were not shown in the first film. There is tons of great concept art, which I am a big sucker for. All the images are super crisp and high quality. Additionally there are various character profiles, sculptures, storyboards and more. Even though our lovable Mike and Sully are still the main characters, there are tons of new faces and they get some time to shine in this book as well. When I see a movie, I like to have some surprises so I usually won’t go too deep before seeing it but this was a nice introduction to get us ready to meet them. “The Art of Monsters University” also includes some very informative behind-the-scenes interviews with the film’s artists. I like that they get to step away from the drawing board and speak out.

The book is authored by Karen Paik, who works in the development department at Pixar. She has worked on various projects including “Ratatouille”, “Up”, and of course “Monsters University”. If you are questions her work as an author she also authored the wonderful companion book “The Art of Ratatouille”, as well as “To Infinity and Beyond!: The Story of Pixar Animation Studios”. So she not only brings her inside view from working at Pixar. She was also involved with this film hands on and allows us to get that inside view. There is also a great preface from John Lasseter, the head honcho for Disney*Pixar films, along with Pete Doctor, the director of “Monsters, Inc.”, “Up” and writer of “Monsters University”. The foreword is by Dan Scanlon, the director of Monsters University, also a great ending to a great book. Don’t miss this!

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Book Review “Darkbound” by Michaelbrent Collings

Author: Michaelbrent Collings
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Release Date: January 19, 2013

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Let’s travel back to September 2012, I was asked to review a DVD for a film titled “Barricade”. Pretty damn good flick, produced by WWE Studios (yes the wrestling company). I got asked to have my review appear on WWE Raw, which was a huge honor. Due to that exposure, I was contacted by the writer of the film Michaelbrent Collings with praise for my review. Since then I have been in contact with him and asked to check out his other works of horror literature. He offered me to check out “Darkbound” and right from the first chapter, I was hooked!

Official Premise: The New York subway system has: 656 miles of track… 468 stations… 31 thousand turnstiles… and 1.64 BILLION fares yearly. For six of those fares, the trip is going to be one they will never forget. Six strangers will board a subway. But this subway is unlike the others. This subway doesn’t take you where you want or where you need. It takes you where you fear. This subway…is DARKBOUND.

Michaelbrent’s writing is super easy to read.  It is intelligent without trying to ask like it is smart.  It is also crazy-ass graphic with the gore. I just kept thinking to myself this would make a killer movie but there is no way it could be filmed with an R-rating. The book is split into six different parts focusing on the each of its passengers. So we get like 6-9 chapters per section and then it restarts the count, at first I found this aspect a little confusing but after the first few it flowed pretty smoothly. I found myself literally hanging on each chapter. There is also quite a few nice twists thrown in, just when I thought I figured it out, I was thrown a loop.  I am looking forward to checking out Michaelbrent’s latest novel, “Strangers”, which was just released June 4th, 2013. Keep me coming!

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Blu-ray Review “Oz The Great and Powerful”

Starring: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz, Abigail Spencer, Joey King
Director: Sam Raimi
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Run Time: 130 minutes

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

After the success of Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland”, we knew that more films like this weren’t far behind. When I heard Sam Raimi was directing this I also was a little hesitant since I wasn’t thrilled at all with what he did with the “Spider-Man” franchise, especially with all that money. But once I saw the first posters and trailers, I was really drawn in. I felt like they might have actually gotten it right. Well let’s say that I enjoyed the film…wasn’t in love with it but there were parts that I liked. The film is a visual thing of beauty but really falls into the category of looking too fake. When you watch “Avatar” you believe that they are really there but this felt like a giant green screen shoot. You are still able to enjoy the film and it’s many references back to the original “The Wizard of Oz” story, but it just didn’t pack any magic to my viewing. I am on board for the inevitable sequel just hope they make some needed changes.

One of the main things, I had a problem with was the believability of these actors in there respective roles. James Franco, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz have all either won or been nominated for Oscars and numerous other awards. Sorry Mila Kunis, “Family Guy” is only a TV show. So I found it a little hard to watch these “great” actors in these less than great roles. Also speaking of Mila Kunis, she doesn’t really have a good angry voice. So when she screamed it just felt like Meg from “Family Guy” screaming at Peter, not very effective. So I was never able to really get behind their roles, I thought it was quite miscast for sure.

Official Premise: Disney’s fantastical adventure Oz The Great And Powerful, from the director of the Spider-Man trilogy, follows Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics. When Diggs is hurled away to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot — until he meets three witches (Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz and Michelle Williams), who aren’t convinced he’s the great wizard everyone’s expecting. Reluctantly drawn into epic problems facing Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it’s too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity — and even some wizardry — Oscar transforms himself into the great wizard and a better man as well.

Obviously, this film was meant to be seen in 3D, read out review of the 3D Blu-ray here. Disney decided to split this film releases and decided not to include a 3D Blu-ray in this combo pack.  I have to say the film still works (sort of) without being in 3D but missing that pop for me that drew me into the world that they created. The 1080p transfer still is quite impressive and like on the 3D Blu-ray, the colors are extremely vibrant, especially with the switch from black and white to color after the opening 20 minutes. I enjoyed this much more in the 3D version of the film since it packed that extra depth. Disney delivered a very sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 and the sound is quite amazing from the twister swinging through Kansas to the flying monkeys flying past your head. I have to also give props to Danny Elfman’s amazing score as well!

This Blu-ray release includes a two-disc set with a Blu-ray and a DVD disc.  There is also a digital copy that you can now redeem with Disney Movie Rewards and will be able to view the film online via your tablets, smartphones, TV etc. This release is also the only way to get special features for this film.  They start off with “The Magic of Oz the Great and Powerful: Second Screen Experience”, which is a great way to get immersived in the world of Oz by using the app on your iPads. “The Enchanting Characters and Creatures of Oz” showcases everyone from Munchkins to flying baboons. “The Sounds of Magical Oz” looks into the film’s sound design. “Sleight of Hand: Zach Braff Puppet Theater” looks into Zach Braff voice over work. There is also a music video from Mariah Carey’s “Almost Home”.

“China Girl and the Suspension of Disbelief” looks into the life behind China Girl and how went from paper to the screen. “Before Your Very Eyes: From Kansas to Oz” takes a stroll into the visual effects world with Production designer Robert Stromberg. “Mila’s Metamorphosis” looks into how the actress was transformed into her green self with lead makeup artist Howard Berger. “Walt Disney and the Road to Oz” looks into Walt Disney fascination with the Land of Oz and the classic Baum books. “Mr. Elfman’s Musical Concoctions” is an interview with composer Danny Elfman. “My Journey in Oz by James Franco” is a feature with Franco discussing this role and his inside story. Lastly there are Bloopers included.

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Blu-ray Review “Breaking Bad: The Fifth Season”

Actors: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris, Betsy Brandt
Directors: Bryan Cranston, Adam Bernstein, Colin Bucksey, George Mastras, Michael Slovis
Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Run Time: 374 minutes

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

“Breaking Bad” was a show that I never got into. I am was not a fan of this show right away and was introduced to it when “The Walking Dead” drew me to AMC. I am not sure if I really am a fan actually. I like parts of the show and the idea of it but overall it is still entertaining. The first half of Season five, felt a little rushed but left us on a major cliffhanger. The second half will premiere on August 11, 2013 and will bring this series to a close. So I expect that it is going to be quite epic and hopefully they were saving the bang finish for the series’ ending. Fans of the show will still appreciate this Blu-ray release though as it is jam-stocked with get extras.

Official Premise: Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul return in their Emmy winning roles of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman in the fifth explosive season of Breaking Bad. With Gus Fring dead, Walt’s transformation from a well-meaning family man to ruthless drug kingpin is nearly complete. Forming a partnership with Jesse and Mike (Jonathan Banks), Walt proceeds to make a killing in the meth business until the fruits of his murderous schemes are threatened by a new development in the investigation led by his relentless brother-in-law Hank (Dean Norris). Executive produced by Vince Gilligan and Mark Johnson, the fifth season charts the murderous rise of Walter White as he reaches new highs…and new lows.

Comparing this show to its airing on AMC, it looks stunning on Blu-ray.  It’s 1080p transfer really set the tone for the show and delivers the episodes very clear.  Same goes for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track, which sounds amazing. In terms of special features like I mentioned below, this release is quite awesome.  There are a few Blu-ray exclusive special features including “Scene by Scene: Directors Discuss Memorable Moments”, must watch for fans. Also “The Writers of Breaking Bad” gets the wrtiers together to chat about the season. The coolest features is easily “Chicks ‘N’ Guns”, which is an eight-minute, uncensored bonus scene, written and produced exclusively for the home entertainment release. The scene starts Aaron Paul, Bob Odenkirk and Charles Baker and tells a very pivotal back story to episode eight, “Gliding Over All.”

There is a cast & crew commentary track on each of the eight episodes.  There are a few other deleted scenes and outtakes included.  There are three all-new featurettes including “Nothing Stops This Train”, which looks into the train heist.  “The Cleaner: Jonathan Banks as Mike” feature the actor talking about his role. There is a Behind-the-Scenes look into “Chicks ‘N’ Guns” with Aaron Paul and Bob Odenkirk. “Writers’ Room Timelapse” is a cool look into the writing of Episode four, “Fifty-One” with commentary from the writers. There is Laura Fraser & Jesse Plemons audition footage, as well as the prison stunt rehearsal footage. If you watch “The Nerdist”, you will like “Chris Hardwick’s All-Star Celebrity Bowling”.  There are 19 minisodes for “Inside Breaking Bad”. Lastly there is “Gallery 1988 Art Show” with inspired artwork from the show.

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Blu-ray Review “Mad Max Trilogy”

Starring: Mel Gibson, Bruce Spence, Virginia Hey, Joanne Samuel, Syd Heylen, Tina Turner
Directors: George Miller, George Ogilvie
Number of discs: 3
MPAA Ratings: R / PG-13
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Run Time: 290 minutes

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

Before Mel Gibson went all crazy on us, he was one bad son-bitch in “Mad Max”, which started him as an action mega star. This sci-fi franchise . This is the first time that the series is being released as Blu-ray collection and actually is the first time at all that “The Road Warrior” and “Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome” are available in this format. I am a big fan of this series, the first two films are awesome (the second slightly beating out the first) and the third film is…well fun! If you are a fan of this series, then this is a no-brainer purchase. It will easily hold you off while you await the 2014 release of “Mad Max: Fury Road” with Tom Hardy taking over the lead role.

“Mad Max” Official Premise: George Miller’s first entry in the trilogy, Mad Max packs brutal action and insane stunts as it follows the inevitable downfall of relentless cop Max Rockatansky (Gibson) in a world gone mad. Living on the edge of an apocalypse, Max is ready to run far away from it all with his family. But when he experiences an unfortunate encounter with a motorcycle gang and its menacing leader, the Toecutter, his retreat from the madness of the world is now a race to save his family’s life.

“The Road Warrior” Official Premise: The sequel to Mad Max, Mad Max Road Warrior provides action-packed, “automotive” entertainment, telling the story of a selfish-turned-selfless hero and his efforts to protect a small camp of desert survivors and defend an oil refinery under siege from a ferocious marauding horde that plunders the land for gasoline.

“Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome” Official Premise: Mel Gibson returns for his third go-round as the title hero who takes on the barbarians of the post-nuclear future – and this time becomes the savior of a tribe of lost children. Music superstar Tina Turner co-stars as Aunty Entity, a power-mad dominatrix determined to use Max to tighten her stranglehold on Bartertown, where fresh water, clean food and gasoline are worth more than gold.

If having all three films together is not a thrill enough, fans are going to love the limited premium tin packaging that this comes in…and might I also add that it would make a super kick-ass gift for Father’s Day. If you don’t care about the time, already own “Max Max” from it’s 2010 Blu-ray releases, then “The Road Warrior” and Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome” will also be made available the same day/date solo, which out the snazzy case.

All three films are presented with amazing 1080p transfer within their respective 2.4:1 aspect ratios. “Mad Max” comes with its original “Australian English” audio with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. This is the way to watch this film for sure. There is also the terrible, yet funny American dub as well but only in a Dolby Digital Mono track. “The Road Warrior” and Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome” also feature powerful DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks, which work well with the action!

The special features on this trilogy release are good but nothing to do back flips over. “Mad Max” includes a featurette called “Mad Max: The Film Phenomenon”. There is an ace commentary track from Jon Dowding, David Eggby, Chris Murray and (my personal buddy) Tim Ridge! You go Tim! “The Road Warrior” comes with another great commentary track from director George Miller and cinematographer Dean Semler. There is also an introduction from Leonard Maltin and a theatrical trailer included. Last but not least (well maybe) is “Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome”, which has zero special features. I guess their approach is that we are even including it in this collection.

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Film Review “After Earth”

Starring: Jaden Smith, Will Smith and Sophie Okenedo
Directed by: M. Night Shyamalan
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 40 mins
Columbia

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

For some reason Hollywood has been enamored of light about films dealing with the end of life on Earth as we know it. Earlier this year we had “Oblivion.” Later this summer we’ll get “Elysium.” And this week we get Big Willie and his little boy in “After Earth.”

As the story begins we learn that the earth was invaded by an alien life form called Ursas. Unable to see the creatures hunted people down by smelling the pheromones they secreted when they became scared. Things were getting bad when a man named Cypher Raige (Will Smith) showed up. Showing no fear whatsoever he battled the creatures, killing them by the score. A term was coined for what he did – “ghosting.” With no pheromones to detect he was able to move among the Ursas and kill them at will. The Earth was left to its own defenses as the remaining members of the human race moved to a new home, called Nova Prime. It is hear that Raige’s son, Kitai (Jaden Smith) is training hard to be a cadet, to one day follow his father. Kitai also has a secret that haunts him. When he was younger and home with his older sister (Zoe Kravitz, Lenny’s daughter) an Ursa attacked. As Kitai stayed safe in a protective dome that blocked his pheromones from being detected, sis ventured out, believing that, like her father, she could “ghost.” She couldn’t. Hoping to reconnect with his family, Cypher informs them that he is set to retire. After one more mission.

Visually impressive but sadly incredulous, “After Earth” is only redeemed by the performances of the Smith family. Jaden, who made a strong screen debut opposite his pop in “The Pursuit of Happyness” and starred in the successful remake of “The Karate Kid” has grown not only as a young man but as an actor. The plot involves the two to basically act alone – Cypher is injured in a crash and must remain in the damaged ship while Kitai is given the task of traveling on foot to retrieve a rescue beacon. Smith senior gives a very emotional performance, made even stronger by the fact that he’s basically sitting in a chair for the majority of the film. On the other side of the spectrum, Jaden runs, jumps and battles everything from a rogue pack of primates to a pride of lions to a giant bird. The visual effects are strong, especially during interactions with the various animals.

M. Night Shyamalan has always been a competent filmmaker, despite his penchant to put “twist” endings on many of his films. No such thing here which is somewhat of a relief. However, there are still other hints of Shyamalan in the film, beginning with the confusing state of Cypher’s rank. He’s referred to as anything from General to Prime Leader to Colonel (apparently making a movie with your son can get you busted down in rank). The film is also full of some intense lines, like “Danger is Real…Fear is a choice!” At night the temperature on Earth falls to glacier epics, freezing everything in its path. However, the next day everything is green again. And even though the Ursa is highly deadly, it is guarded on board ship by the Keystone Cops, the kind who all huddle with the monster, surely must wonder how the cloth shower curtains at the entrance of its compartment are keeping them safe from being eaten. Or not.

Again, if you like the Smith’s and want to see a couple of good performances, then take an hour and a half to check out “After Earth.” If not…”Star Trek: Into Darkness” is probably playing next door.

 

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Film Review “Now You See Me”

Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo and Morgan Freeman
Directed by: Louis Leterrier
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 56 mins
Summit Entertainment

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

There’s something attractive about the illusion of magic. From a simple card trick to making an elephant disappear, when it’s done right it’s a delight to see. Which makes me happy to report that the new film, “Now You See Me,” is certainly done right.

J. Daniel Atlas (Eisenberg) is a fast talking, playing card carrying magician, currently performing his tricks on any street corner that will have him. Merrit McKinney (Woody Harrelson at his best) is a mentalist who can hypnotize you into doing anything. He’s now appearing as the Sunday brunch entertainment at a local hotel. Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) rides the ferry across the river, impressing people with his ability to bend spoons. And Henley Reeves (Isla Fisher) has a great water torture gimmick that involves flesh eating piranhas. All four are barely making a living. One day they all receive a themed Tarot Card, directing them to a meeting that will change their lives forever.

Packed with some incredible on-screen sleight of hand, “Now You See Me” tells the tale of these individual magicians, now performing in Vegas as a group billed as “The Four Horsemen,” and how they reward their audiences by showering them with cash. From robbing banks. Or rather, having their on-stage volunteers rob them. After apparently stealing 3 million Euros from a French bank (remember, they’re in Vegas) they are arrested and interrogated by both FBI agent Dylan Rhodes (Ruffalo) and Alma Dray (Melanie Laurent), sent over from INTERPOL. With no real proof, the four are released and spirited away by their benefactor, the very wealthy Arthur Tressler (Michael Caine). They also come under the scrutiny of Thaddeus Bradley (Freeman), a man who has spent his life shadowing magicians and exposing their secrets. Bradley has made a fortune selling DVDs and hosting television specials (and how ironic is it that Morgan Freeman plays a character whose work is actually narrated by Morgan Freeman). Rhodes, Dray and Bradley attempt to join forces but, as Atlas has informed them, the Four Horseman are always two steps ahead of them.

Director Leterrier proved himself a fine action director with “The Transporter” and did more with “The Incredible Hulk” then Ang Lee could. That being said, I absolutely despised his remake of “Clash of the Titans.” Here he is back in top form, perfectly meshing the on-screen antics of his magicians with a true “who done it” mystery. He is helped out by a top notch screenplay that doesn’t rely on a few petty tricks to advance the story. The pace slows a little as it builds to the pay off, but not enough for the viewer to lose interest. The characters are fleshed out with each one given their own identity. It also helps to have a first rate cast, including Oscar winners Caine and Freeman and Oscar nominees Eisenberg and Harrelson. Even those without “Oscar” near their name perform well. And the illusions, as presented, are spectacular. If you don’t believe me, pay attention to the first card trick Eisenberg does in the film, a random “pick a card, any card” routine. You’ll probably be as surprised as I was when he picks YOUR card. Yes, the random card this guy (me) in the audience picked was the one he pulled. Like I said, you can’t go wrong with magic done right.

 

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Blu-ray Review “The Dick Van Dyke Show: The Complete Third Season”

Actors: Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam, Carl Reiner
Directors: Jerry Paris, John Rich
Number of discs: 3
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Run Time: 811 minutes

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

I do not think that there could be such a thing as watching too much “The Dick Van Dyke Show”.  As these seasons are being released on Blu-ray, I find myself re-watching past seasons just to fill the gap in between. Even my wife now has become a fan finding the show like myself post airing. Image Entertainment is behind these and they have done such a wonderful job.  This season is first without Carl Reiner taking point in the writing department.  It still is exceptional funny, especially with the episode “That’s My Boy??”. With only two more seasons to go after this, I am going to be upset when the series is completed.  Can I suggest “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” next for them to release as a series? Hint Hint!

Official Premise: Pratfall-prone Rob Petrie (Dick Van Dyke) and his plucky wife Laura (Mary Tyler Moore), along with wisecracking co-workers Sally (Rose Marie) and Buddy (Morey Amsterdam), captured America’s hearts in this TV favorite that irresistibly combined wit and slapstick. The third season, which earned the series’ highest ratings, opened with the landmark That’s My Boy?? about Rob’s fear that he’s brought the wrong baby home from hospital, getting the longest studio audience laughs in the show’s history. Also among the season’s 32 original full length episodes (airing 1963-1964) included in this set are the hilarious October Eve with Laura is mortified when a nude portrait of her surfaces in a New York gallery and Big Max Calvada in which a gangster muscles Rob, Buddy and Sally into writing a comedy routine for his nephew.

Like the past three seasons, Image Entertainment has consistently delivers wonderful presentations for this show (and many others as well).  These episodes are brought to us on Blu-ray with all-new scans from the camera negatives. The 1080p transfer just look stunning. The original source elements have held up very well and really don’t show their age at all. The DTS-HD MA 1.0 audio track is a simple soundtrack for a simple show. There not much needed here this show and it works perfectly. The episodes were mostly taped with a studio audience and the laughing is balanced well with the snappy jokes and dialogue.

There are some new Blu-ray exclusive special features. Including “Mary on The Danny Kaye Show”, which if you a nice switch since on Season 2, we had Dick on that show. Decent but Dick’s appearance takes the cake for being slightly more entertaining. “TV Academy Tribute to Carl with Steve Martin and George Clooney” it is a nice ode to the man behind this great show. Martin gives tribute and Clooney does the awarding. The rest of the season features are roll-overs from past DVD releases but are still fantastic. There are commentary tracks from Carl Reiner and Dick Van Dyke on episode 64 (That’s My Boy??) and episode 90 (October Eve). There are “Episode Photos” throughout all three discs for episodes 18 out of the 32 episodes. There are also commercials/promos on episode 64, 66, 80 and others for Nick at Nite.

Other extras include featurettes on disc 1: “Remembering the Sheldon Leonard”, “Remembering Rob and Laura”, “Remembering Buddy and Sally”, “Remembering That’s My Boy??” (episode 64), “Remembering the Betty Lou” (episode 72), which look back at these episodes and the characters. Also there is “Sheldon on the Role of Executive Producer”. Disc 2 contains featurettes on “Remembering Joe Coogan” (episode 80). There is a also a featurette “The Cast Plays Stump the Stars” and Rehearsal footage from “A Day in the Life of Sheldon Leonard”. Lastly disc three has one more featurette: for “Remembering Alan Brady” (episode 86) and “Remembering October Eve” (episode 90). Also there is a look into the show’s Emmy Awards® (1963-1964) and “Dick and Mary on Van Dyke & Company” included.

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Book Review “Exploring the Deep: The Titanic Expeditions”

Author: James Cameron with Don Lynch, Ken Marschall, and Parks Stephenson
Hardcover: 252 pages
Publisher: Insight Editions
Release Date: June 4, 2013

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Who isn’t completely obsessed with events of the Titanic. James Cameron really did a number on us not only with delivers us his 1997 mega hit but also continuing to make this topic relevant. This expeditions are unlike any other of the sunken ship and the mysteries surrounding it. “Exploring the Deep: The Titanic Expeditions” is a great companion to his work over the years, it gives us a detailed look into his expeditions and more than thirty dives that he and his team has made with special robotic vehicles. We get to explore the interiors and exteriors of the Titanic wreck and get a great inside perspective our the teams voyages.

Director James Cameron, since directing “Titanic” has become the go-to person for anything relating to the sinking of that ship. This deluxe coffee-table book, coming just after the hundred anniversary gets to tell the complete story of his work with exploring the wreckage and also diving into many new technological advances to assist in capturing more information. There are tons of previously unpublished images and revelations about the wreck. The book itself is a powerhouse. Insight Editions really strives to deliver quality releases and they have most definitely succeeded here. My only main issue is the size of some of the images used. Since we are talking underwater images of a hundred old wreck, the quality is not perfect. But then again, I understand that but maybe I wouldn’t have blown the image up to a full page then. That was my only main issue, otherwise the content and visual feel is fantastic.

Even though James Cameron is the man, we can’t forget his team. This book contains contributions from three of the world’s foremost Titanic experts, Don Lynch, Ken Marschall, and Parks Stephenson. It really feels like a team effort also. If you still want more there is also Cameron’s exclusive dive journal and previously unpublished images include dive maps and personal photographs. That also adds a sort of human and emotional feel to the book, which is why I also feel that should recommend it. Overall, the book is very informative and impressive, any history buff or Titanic buff should want to jump all over this book.

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Book Review “After Earth: United Ranger Corps Survival Manual”

Author: Robert Greenberger
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: Insight Editions
Release Date: May 21, 2013

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to M. Night Shyamalan, I think we all have had our share of his twist-filled films.  “After Earth” looks original and pretty interesting. It also starts Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith kicking alien ass.  So I am curious to see it.  When I saw that Insight Edition was releasing “United Ranger Corps Survival Manual” as the companion the film, I was very interested since they did a fantastic job with “The Dark Knight Manual” by Brandon T. Snider last year. This book tries to copy the success of that book but comes up a little short. Still though it is a great companion and definitely has peaked my interest more in seeing this film.  I even have a feeling that after seeing this film, I am going to enjoy this film quite a bit more.

Official Premise: Go beyond After Earth with this unique, in-universe journey into the world of the United Ranger Corps. From the history of the Rangers, to humanity’s exodus from Earth, and the ongoing battle against the Skrel, a fearsome alien race, the United Ranger Corps Survival Manual immerses you in the After Earth universe. Study the secrets of ghosting—the art of singlehandedly slaying the vicious Ursa—and complete your mastery of the cutlass, a Ranger’s greatest weapon, as you discover what it takes to be one of Nova Prime’s elite. Filled with interactive elements, including a schematic of the Ranger base, a complete guide to the highly evolved animals of Earth, and even a handwritten journal entry from Cypher Raige, the United Ranger Corps Survival Manual is the essential companion to the After Earth film.

The manual covers doesn’t just cover the film, they cover the world surrounding the film.  Some of the chapter topics range from “A History of Earth’s Last Days, “Ranger Cadet Training”, “Ranger Uniform and Equipment”, including “Mastering the Cutlass”.  The color tone of the manual is a little drab yet the images are sharp and high quality. Like “The Dark Knight Manual”,  this manual has a few pull out and neat little tricks taking this to a different level than most companion books. I feel that they should have consulted Brandon T. Snider for some tips on how to make it perfect like he did with “The Dark Knight” but it still works. The author of the book is Robert Greenberger, who has worked with DC Comics, Marvel, Starlog and knows his sci-fi, especially from his work with the “Star Trek” franchise. I look forward to further books from him and again another hit from Insight Editions.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters 3D”

Actors: Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Famke Janssen, Peter Stormare, Thomas Mann
Directors: Tommy Wirkola
Number of discs: 3
Rated: R / Unrated
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Run Time: 87 / 97 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
3D: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters” is exactly what you would expect…over-the-top and fun..and that is all.  The action is pretty awesome and the film is quite gory for us horrorhounds.  The make-up effects are also pretty sharp. Overall, it is just mindless entertainment. For fans of “The Avengers”, did I mention it has Hawkeye in it? Jeremy Renner is fun in the role, poking fun at his character, as is Gemma Arterton, who isn’t hurting on the eyes either.  Famke Janssen also has a great role in the film and plays a great witch. This is also the American film debut of Norwegian director Tommy Wirkola, who did the 2009 feature “Dead Snow”, which is another fun zany horror/comedy with Nazi zombies.

All that going for it and did I mention it is also in 3D? They most definitely take advantage of the third dimension as well and it works in the film’s favorite for more added fun. The 3D makes the film entertaining and there are a few great in-your-face gore shots and fireballs thrown at the screen. The film was delayed to be post converted but I think they have really mastered post conversion process…anyone see “Iron Man 3″? The film wasn’t a huge hit in the US but good enough…I hear that there is already a sequel in the card…do I smell a new franchise? Best movie of 2013? Nope but definitely worth a rental.

Official Premise: Get ready for a twisted take on the classic tale as Hansel (Jeremy Renner) and Gretel (Gemma Arterton) have turned pro, coping with the trauma of their childhood captivity by slaying witches for hire. But when the seemingly unstoppable bounty hunters meet their match in an enemy so evil, it’ll take all their training, weapons and courage to survive. Revenge is sweeter than candy.

This release includes two cuts of the film. The original theatrical R-rated 87 minute cut and the extended unrated 97 minute cut.  The unrated cut is definitely worth checking out with more blood and gore…but it is only available in 2D.  I think that is the most disappointing part of this release is that the 3D Blu-ray only contains the theatrical cut, I would have liked to enjoy both in 3D.  I am sure it would haven’t have been much trouble to give us 3D cuts of both but nonetheless we got what we got.

Paramount delivers a fantastic three-disc combo pack including a 3D Blu-ray, standard 2D Blu-ray and DVD copy. Ultraviolet streaming digital copy, as well there is a iTunes digital copy. Like I said the 1080p transfer is very impressive and works very well with the 3D presentation.  2D fans will also appreciate this fine transfer as well. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track works perfectly with the action and score by Atli Örvarsson, who recently worked with Hans Zimmer to contribute music to the Zack Snyder’s “Man of Steel”.

As brainless fun as the film is, the special features are lacking in terms but still are decent. There are three short featurettes. The first is “Reinventing Hansel & Gretel”, which runs about 15 minutes.  It looks into the origin of the film and its production. “The Witching Hours” looks into the cool design process of the witches in the film.  Kudos again for great make-up. Lastly “Meet Edward the Troll” is another short look at creating the Troll in the film. So overall decent but nothing really substantial in terms of value. Of course if you can always count the unrated cut as a bonus feature but that is up to you.

 

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Blu-ray Review “Appleseed XIII: Complete Series”

Actors: David Matranga, Luci Christian, Charlie Campbell
Directors: Colleen Clinkenbeard
Number of discs: 5
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Funimation
DVD Release Date: June 4, 2013
Run Time: 390 minutes

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

“Appleseed XIII” is the new Japanese CGI anime adaptation of Masamune Shirow’s 1985 science fiction manga series “Appleseed”. The series consists of 13 episodes (if you didn’t get that from the title). The series focuses on the exploits of ES.W.A.T. members Deunan and her cyborg partner Briareos and stays pretty close the original manga stories. The series was produced in association with Production I.G, aka the makers of “Ghost in the Shell”. I am a big fan of “Appleseed” and I am glad to see this series get some new life. I wish it wasn’t returned to 13 episodes but it still works and it is a blast for fans looking for more.

If you are a fan of the past films “Appleseed” & “Appleseed Ex Machina”, you will be happy to know that David Matranga returns as Briareos and Luci Christian returns as Deunan Knute. So this should make fans of the characters happy. It has also been almost six years since the last film, so this OVA series is very welcomed. “Appleseed XIII” was also compiled into two theatrical feature films in Japan. The first feature film was titled, “Appleseed XIII: Tartaros” and the second titled, “Appleseed XIII: Ouranos”.

Official Premise: In the wake of destruction from a worldwide non-nuclear war, the city of Olympus has become the control center of the world. As humanity adopts biological enhancements in attempts to achieve perfection, a terrorist organization uprises to prevent what could be the eventual extinction of the human race. Two former LAPD SWAT members join a special mech-piloting, military force to take down the leader of the terrorist organization.

Funimation gave this OVA series a lot of love.  This limited edition Blu-ray release comes in a very sharp hard case with two cases, one for the Blu-ray presentation of this show and the another for the DVD. This is a typical “complete series” release from the studio and is very impressive. The 1080p transfers on the episodes look fantastic and work very well with the CG animation style and non-stop action for this series.  There are two audio tracks included, both which are Dolby TrueHD 5.1.  Like I mentioned above, I am fan of the English track due to the voice talent that is included.  But both of them are comparable and very impressive to satisfy either type of fan.

The special features are pretty awesome as well, just like the series itself. There are two audio track for two episodes. Episode #7 features Mike McFarland, Ian Sinclair and Monica Rial, which is a complete blast to listen to and adds a lot to the episode itself. The second is with Episode #12, which features Colleen Clinkenbeard and David Matrenga, also very informative and a must listen for fans. “The Inside” is a crazy long nearly two and a half hour behind the scenes look at the making of each episode. Plain and simple…this is awesome and highly recommend! Lastly there is a U.S. Trailer, and a Textless Opening and Closing Theme.

 

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DVD Review “H.P. Lovecraft’s Cool Air”

Starring: Morgan Weisser, Crystal Green, Virginia Dare, Norbert Weisser, Lauren Sutherland
Directed by: Albert Pyun
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Lions Gate
DVD Release Date: May 21, 2013
Run Time: 78 minutes

Film: 0 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

Wow, what a piece of shit. When ever I see the name H.P. Lovecraft, I always come running without thinking twice. His short stories are also interested at least but this film adaption of the 1926 story was not one of my favorite. In fact it is completely unwatchable. The acting is absolutely terrible, the score sounds like a soft-core porn and even though the film is less than 80 minutes to drags major ass. The film was made in 2006 and was never realized to now but I understand why after watching this. There are also no special features included on this DVD, not that I would have watched them anyway. Warning: Stay away for this film!

Official Premise: Struggling screenwriter, Charlie Baxter sets out to write his long blocked “great American screenplay” when he suffers a heart attack and his mysterious upstairs neighbor Doctor Shockner comes to his rescue. The Doctor persuades Baxter to stay with him until he recovers fully, and introduces Baxter to a nightmarish world of insane experiments and murder. He knows something must be done to stop the evil that resides in the room at the top of the stairs.

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DVD Review “Dark Circles”

Starring: Johnathon Schaech and Pell James
Director: Paul Soter
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
DVD Release Date: May 21, 2013
Run Time: 86 minutes

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

When I see the name “After Dark”, you know that you should expect some decent horror product…but that is not the case here. “Dark Circle” is your typical supernatural horror flick with twist…might I add a bad twist. It is written and directed by Paul Soter, who is a member of the comedy troupe Broken Lizard on films like “Beerfest” and “Super Troopers”. This is a real change for him but he does a good job but I felt the story could have used some kick. Johnathon Schaech and Pell James are great playing sleep deprived parents (I have a 1 year old and felt their pains). There are a few decent jumps as well and great suspense throughout the film but the pay off doesn’t work for me. I would recommend this for a rent, but just don’t hold hopes too high.

Official Premise: When new parents Alex and Penny retreat from the city and move into a place outside town, the stress and massive sleep-deprivation caused by their infant has both of them seeing things. Persistent sightings of a strange woman has each of them wondering if they are suffering from hallucinations, or if their new home holds a dark, supernatural presence. As their fragile grasp on reality spirals into delirium, Alex and Penny find themselves nearly helpless to deal with the horrific truth of what is really going in this house.

“Dark Circle” was only released on DVD from Lionsgate, no Blu-ray love. There are two audio tracks included, a Dolby Digital 5.1 and 2.0 track. The special features are not amazing but worth checking out if you enjoyed the film. There is an audio commentary track with writer/director Paul Soter, Johnathon Schaech and blooger Ryan Turek. It is fun and informative. There is also “Behind-the-Scenes” featurette, with cast/crew interviews. It rather short at just over six minutes but it is pretty decent. Soter does say though in this featurette that he has plans for more horror films, so I am still on board to see what he can come up with next. Lastly, fans of “Beerfest” and “Super Troopers”, be sure to keep an eye out for an quick appearance from Philippe Brenninkmeyer.

 

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