Blu-ray Review “Total Recall: Extended Director’s Cut”

Actors: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel, Bryan Cranston, Bokeem Woodbine
Directors: Len Wiseman
MPAA Rating: PG-13 / Not Rated
Studio: Sony
Release Date: December 18, 2012
Run Time: 118 / 130 minutes

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

Alright, we all love Paul Verhoeven’s “Total Recall” from 1990 with Arnold Schwarzenegger. This 2012 reboot there very hard to compare to that film, maybe a little too hard. It picks and chooses aspects of the original film, while trying to stand out on its own. I do have a bit weak spot for science ficiton. This film is very sly and sharp. It is a well-polished, very loud and colorful action/thriller. Colin Farrell is good in the role but does have that comedy angle that Schwarzenegger brought to the role in the original. If the amazing CG and visuals aren’t enough for you, Kate Beckinsale and Jessica Biel are great eye candy to look out. If you can get over the fact that this film is called “Total Recall”, there is a lot of action packed fun to be had here.

Official Synopsis: Prepare for non-stop excitement and pulse-pounding thrills in this “smart, sexy and action-packed” (Scott Mantz, Access Hollywood) action thriller. Colin Farrell stars as Douglas Quaid, a factory worker who visits Rekall, a revolutionary company that can turn his superspy fantasies into real memories. But when the procedure goes horribly wrong, the line between fantasy and reality blurs as Quaid becomes a man on the run and the fate of his world hangs in the balance. Costarring Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel and Bryan Cranston, Total Recall is bursting with mind-blowing action sequences and spectacular visual effects, the ultimate high-energy thrill-ride!

Whether you enjoyed this film or not Sony delivers an amazing three-disc release with with two Blu-rays’s and a DVD. There is also a Ultraviolet digital streaming copy included. There are two cuts of the film including the theatrical release (118 minutes) and the extended director’s cut (130 minutes). The DVD and Ultraviolet copies only packs the theatrical release. The extended director’s cut really improves the film quite a bit, instead of the play-it-safe PG-13 theatrical release. I really enjoyed the new story lines and alternate ending. This is the way the film was meant to been seen and the way that I would recommend watching. “Total Recall” delivers one of the years best high definition 1080p transfers. It is literally perfect and works so well with this very pretty looking film. The audio also delivers a perfectly balanced Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround sound track.

The special features are nothing short of amazing on this release. On the first Blu-ray, there is a great and very honest commentary track from director Len Wiseman. Highly recommend this track. ““Total Recall Insight Mode” is perfect to check out during a second viewing since it allows the viewers to watch behind-the-scenes clips through the film. On Disc two there is a multitude of featurettes, as well as a 8-minute gag reel. “Science Fiction vs. Science Fact” is a look into the reality behind the future with Michio Kaku, Professor of Theoretical Physics and Author of Physics of the Future. “Designing The Fall” looks into the visuals and set designs but runs way too short. “Total Action” is a seven-part feature focusing on the films actors Colin Farrell, Jessica Biel and Kate Beckinsale and the making of key scenes including the film’s climax.

The last feature on disc two is a collection of Pre-Visualization Sequences called “Stepping Into Recall”. It shows various scenes in different animated states includingt “Apartment Waterfront Chase”, “The Fall Fight”, “Flight and Tripping Den”, “Elevator Chase” and “Car Chase”. The DVD of the film contains the gag reel, “Total Recall Insight Mode,” and the “Science Fiction vs. Science Fact” and “Designing the Fall” featurettes. Also not sure how this is related to “Total Recall” but there is a playable game demo of “”God of War™: Ascension”” for Playstation 3, which is in advance of its March 12, 2013 release. But it is a nice treat for fans of the game’s franchise!

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, cut, directors, extended, recall, review, ...

Disney’s “Babes in Toyland” Blu-ray Giveaway [ENDED]

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED AND WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EACH WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

For the First Time on Disney Blu-ray™, with New Digital Restoration, Celebrate the 1961 Classic Disney Musical, Produced by Walt Disney himself, Starring Annette Funicello this Holiday. To celebrate to Blu-ray release, Media Mikes would like to giveaway ONE Blu-ray. If you would like to win one of this great prize, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite song from the film. This giveaway will be open until December 21th at Noon and is only open to residents of the United States. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

Synopsis: Tom the Piper’s Son is about to marry Mary Quite Contrary. On the eve of their wedding, evil miser Barnaby hires two henchmen to drown Tom and steal Mary’s sheep, cared for by Little Bo Peep, thus depriving Mary and the children she lives with of their livelihood, forcing her to marry Barnaby. The sheep are stolen, but Gonzorgo and Roderigo, Barnaby’s henchmen, double-cross him by selling Tom to a band of gypsies instead, leaving Tom with the opportunity to escape and make his way with Mary, Bo-Peep, and other Mother Goose characters to Toyland.

Cast: Ray Bolger (The Wizard of Oz) as Barnaby; Annette Funicello (TV’s “The Mickey Mouse Club,” Beach Party) as Mary Contrary; Tommy Sands (The Longest Day) as Tom Piper; Ed Wynn (Alice in Wonderland, Mary Poppins) as Toymaker


.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: babes, bluray, disneys, review, toyland

3D Blu-ray Review “Ice Age: Continental Drift 3D”

Actors: Ray Romano, Denis Leary, John Leguizamo, Aziz Ansari, Joy Behar
Directors: Mike Thurmeier, Steve Martino
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 88 minutes

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

When I the last chapter in this “Ice Age” franchise, which was also the first in 3D”, “Age of the Dinosaurs”, I thought the series had jumped the shark.  After a few viewings though, I that film has grown on me.  I was excited right off to see “Continental Drift”.  I thought the story looked cute, the 3D looks sharp and the new characters were fun.  I was right on all-three aspects.  This isn’t anything ground breaking in the story department but perfect for kids.  There are a bunch of great new characters, voiced by Jennifer Lopez, Aziz Ansari and Peter Dinklage.  This installment also introduces music into the film, with original songs and I think it works very well. Overall, I am very satisfied with this film and is perfectly timed for release to make a perfect Christmas gift this holiday season for every kid. Can’t wait to see what they come up with for the fifth installment in the “Ice Age” franchise.

Official Premise: This all-new chapter in the beloved Ice Age franchise reconnects families with herd favourites Manny, Sid, and Diego. Joining familiar friends of the Ice Age world on their latest journey is Sid’s long-lost and side-splittingly funny Granny plus a band of pirates led by the fearsome orangutan Captain Gutt. And no Ice Age film would be complete without celebrated icon Scrat, whose existence revolves around the elusive acorn. Scrat once again returns with his very own exploits; however this time his pursuits result in world-changing consequences.

One of the best aspects of the “Ice Age” franchise has always been its amazing voice cast. Ray Romano is always fun to listen to playing Manny.  Denis Leary plays the tough guy with the big heart, very well as  Diego.  John Leguizamo was born to play Sid with that lovable slur. Queen Latifah joined the cast last year voicing Ellie and is a nice match for Manny. Also Seann William Scott returns voicing Crash and  Simon Pegg as Buck.  Newcomers to the cast include Nicki Minaj voicing Steffie and parents will enjoy the “Shaun of the Dead” reunion as Nick Frost joins the cast with Simon Pegg voicing Flynn.

Fox delivers this release with a wonderful combo pack included the 3D Blu-ray, the standard Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy and also Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. You can literally want this film whenever and wherever you are. The 3D presentation really suits this franchise well and looks even better at home in a sharp 1080p transfer with an aspect ratio of 2.40:1. I think that the depth added in the 3D and really makes the action scenes feel like your on a rollercoaster ride. Besides the 3D, the film is also backs but an incredible DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1. There is no aspect of this Blu-ray release that isn’t amped up and ready to blow you away.

The special features are exploding out here with over four hours of extras.  Kids are going to eat up watching the film with the interactive “Party with a Pirate!” mode, very fun.  There is also a sing-along mode as well. I actually really enjoyed the original songs included here! There are many exclusive featurettes included, which gives some fantastic background into the production.  “Through a Pirate’s Spyglass: Voices Ahoy and Capturing the Crew” look into the recording sessions with the cast. “Granny and the Stink of the Sloths”, “Scrat Got Your Tongue?” and “Whale of a Tale: Drifts, Rifts, Beasties and Myths” focus on each of the respective characters and their aspects in the film.   There are two music video for the songs “We Are” and “Chasing the Sun”.  There are also some decent deleted Scenes included. “The Scratist” is an all-new animated short spoof with the lovable Scrat. “Ice Age: The Story So Far” is a seires overview for those who need a refresh on the first three films.  Lastly there are the original theatrical trailers included.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3d, age, bluray, continental, drift, ice, ...

Book Review “The Three Stooges: Hollywood Filming Locations”

Author: Jim Pauley
Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Santa Monica Press
Release Date: December 15, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I think about The Three Stooges, I think about the classic days of Hollywood.  I think about real sets and classic film production.  If you are a fan of The Three Stooges, like myself and have the same questions, then “Hollywood Filming Locations” is for you. It exploring the original locations that were the sites of the Stooges’ most famous Columbia Pictures short films made in and around Hollywood between 1934 and 1958.  The book is really well done and beautifully delivered, thanks to Santa Monica Press.

The details of the book are jam-packed with numerous archival photographs, some of which are rare and never-been-seen before or published. They also range from some really neat candid shots to classically vintage publicity stills.  Then there are simple screen captures from films and other contemporary photographs.  This isn’t just photos of The Stooges though, there is a focus on the location themselves within aerial views and maps detailing this locations. This book isn’t just photos though, there are quotes throughout from the Three Stooges’ directors, supporting actors, and family members.

Jim Pauley is definitely the author for this book.  He is a noted expert on the Three Stooges filming locations.  He has written articles on this subject since 2001 published in “Three Stooges Journal”, which is released by the Three Stooges Fan Club. He really gets a chance to show his love for this trio of comedic legends.  There is also a very sharp foreword from film critic Leonard Maltin. If you are a Stooges fan , then this book is a must have to show Hollywood’s cinematic history and the legacy of these comedic geniuses.

 

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: book, filming, hollywood, locations, review, stooges, ...

Film Review “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”

Starring: Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage and Ian McKellen
Directed by: Peter Jackson
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 2 hours 49 mins
New Line Cinema

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Sometimes we build up our expectations, often to the point that we can never be satisfied. Francis Ford Coppola has made some film masterpieces but they are often compared, unfairly, to “The Godfather.” Michael Jackson’s “BAD” is a great album. But it’s no “Thriller.” After “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy Peter Jackson could have said “sorry, no more Tolkien stories for me.” But he’s back with the first of three films based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.” Is it “The Lord of the Rings?” No. But you already knew that.

Taking place about 60 years before the adventures chronicled in “The Lord of the Rings” films, the story begins with an elderly Bilbo Baggins (Ian Holm) writing in a notebook. He is recounting his younger days for other Hobbits to learn from. The story is one of adventure, dwarves and a certain creature who goes by the name Gollum. What follows is a jaw-dropping visual carnival courtesy of Peter Jackson and company!

Full of everything from giant spiders to goblins, from Orcs to a giant dragon, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” is a two hour-plus adventure into a world never seen before. The tale finds young Bilbo (Freeman) being visited by the great Wizard, Gandalf (McKellen) and thirteen Dwarves, led by the great warrior, Thorin (Armitage). Along the way they come across virtually every creature that Jackson and the people at WETA could devise. And this is the drawback of the film. It is almost TOO crowded with strange and exotic creatures. Like “King Kong” before it, it seems like Jackson decided if it can be made let’s put it on film.

The film is also shot in a process that’s is explained as such: normally film goes through a projector at the rate of 24 frames through the gate per second. Jackson has filmed “The Hobbit” at the rate of 48 frames per second, which gives the film an incredible clarity that is actually off putting for the first 20 minutes or so. However, once you get used to it the images are quite breathtaking, especially during the battle sequences.

There are two more films planned to tell the story of “The Hobbit.” Will they be better than “The Lord of the Rings?” Probably not. But if they’re anything like “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” that should be just fine.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, hobbit, journey, review, unexpected

Blu-ray Review “Osombie”

Actors: Corey Sevier, Jasen Wade
Directors: John Lyde
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Entertainment One
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 94 minutes

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

Zombie Osama Bin Laden? What will they think of next? If that doesn’t draw you into “Osombie”, nothing will. Obviously, you know that this film needs to be taken with a very large grain of salt. But believe it or not, this film works.  It is a nice mix of action and horror. There are swords, guns, zombies and exploding heads.  How can you say no to all that? I mean the terror isn’t really there but the special effects are decent for a low-budget film.  Did I mention again this has a Zombie Osama Bin Laden? Shake you head if you want but this is worth checking out for a good laugh.

Officie Premise: Dusty (Eve Mauro) is on a desperate mission to rescue her brother, a conspiracy theorist who is convinced Osama Bin Laden is still alive. In Afghanistan, she falls in with a team of Special Forces soldiers on a secret assignment. When the group crashes headlong into a zombie apocalypse, Dusty and the troops realize they must find and destroy the root of this evil before it s too late.

Believe it or not the Blu-ray presentation on this low-budget action/horror flick looks impressive.  The 1080p transfer also compliments the effect work quite well. The audio track included, DTS-HD Master Audio track, doesn’t break any new ground but works with the action scenes.  Though on the downside of this release, there are zero special features includes, as this is completely bare bones.  I was hoping for a make-up effects featurette or at least a commentary track from the director explaining himself for bringing back Bin Laden and then killing him again.  This release is still worth checking out for a decent laugh.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, osombie, review

DVD Review “Futurama: Volume 7”

Creator: Matt Groening
Cast: Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: 20th Century Fox
DVD Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 286 minutes

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

When this show got canceled back in 2003, I was dying for more “Futurama”. Between me and you, I like this show far better than “The Simpsons”, post-90’s. This volume contains the first 13 episodes of the seventh season of the show. This season has some really good episodes. This season touches base on everything happening in pop-culture this year from the Maya Calender to the election to even Bender having a baby. Some of the best episodes of the series here and a real improvement from season six. These episodes also have a great replay value and only get funnier. If you want more “Futurama”, the second half of season seven begins in June 2013.

Official Premise: Crank up the gravity and put your head safely in a jar! It’s Volume Seven of FUTURAMA – the animated sci-fi comedy from The Simpsons creator Matt Groening. Crammed with a whole new dimension of extras not shown on TV, this cosmic collection includes 13 bizarre and brilliant episodes involving ancient prophecies, Presidents’ heads, robot gangsters, angry butterflies, and of course, sausage-making. It’s a shipload of futuristic fun!

The episodes includes in this volume are: The Bots And The Bees; A Farewell To Arms; Decision 3012 ; The Thief Of Baghead; Zapp Dingbat; The Butterjunk Effect; The Six Million Dollar Mon; Fun On A Bun; Free Will Hunting; Near-death Wish; 31st Century Fox; Viva Mars Vegas and Naturama.

The special features are A-MAZING! There are commentary tracks on all of the 13 episodes from this season.  There is even a bonus commentary on the second episode “A Farewell To Arms” from the Animators of Rough Draft Studios.  These are worth the price of the release alone! There is an alternate ending for the fifth episode “Zapp Dingbat”. I am a big fan of the score from “Futurama” and there is a nice feature on the composer “Christopher Tyng’s Big Score”, read our interview with Christopher here. There is a funny sing-along with the character in “Futurama Karaoke”.  Lastly there is a funny infinite loop for “Möbius Trip” and some really great collection of deleted scenes in “Too Good For TV”.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 7, dvd, futurama, review, volume

DVD Review “Korg: 70,000 B.C. – The Complete Series”

Created by: Fred Freiberger
Starring, Jim Malinda, Bill Ewing, Naomi Pollack, Christopher Man
Narrated by: Burgess Meredith
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 344 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Korg: 70,000 B.C.” is a short-lived live-action Saturday morning TV series from 1974 that was executive produced by Hanna-Barbera. The show only lasted one season of 16 episodes but has developed quite the following over the years. I can’t say that I was able to watch this show during its original run, but I was aware of this series, despite its short-life and I enjoyed it quite a bit. The series also spawned a board game and comic series tie-in back in the day. Warner Archive is behind this complete collection of this show. It is the first time it has every been released on DVD.

Official Synopsis: A plaintive hunting horn, heard over a ruddy sunrise, signaled the start of something different on Saturday mornings in the mid-seventies. Clan Korg had arrived to take kids and kids at heart on a series of live-action anthropological adventures across the dangerous terrain of prehistory. Aided by consultants from both New York’s American Museum of Natural History and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Korg ditched battling dinos and discovering fire for a more mature focus on the dawn of cooperation and compassion amongst our Neanderthal brethren as personified by it’s pre-nuclear family. Korg is the patriarch of the clan, which includes Mara, his mate; Bok, Korg’s younger brother; and Korg’s three offspring: Tana, 15; Ree, 12; and Tar, 11. Together, they brave opposing tribes, cave bears and fire while discovering the roots of art, diplomacy and commerce in the world of 70,000 BC. Burgess Meredith narrates.

The quality of the episodes are decent for a 35+ year old show.  This release hasn’t been remastered or restored but it has been taken from the best-quality video master currently available.  So it looks good but could look much better, I am sure.  But I think that fans of the series will just be happy to finally have this series available on DVD.  They are presented in 4 X 3 Full Frame with it’s original aspect ration of 1.37:1.  The audio track included is a Dolby Mono track, which is in line with all the Warner Archive release.  There are no other extras included besides the episodes.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 70000, bc, complete, dvd, korg, review, ...

Film Review “California Solo”

Directed by: Marshall Lewy
Starring: Robert Carlyle, Alexia Rasmussen, Kathleen Wilhoite, A Martinez, Michael Des Barres, Danny Masterson
Distributed by Strand Releasing
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running time: 94 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I came across this film since I was asked to interview Robert Carlyle. Read our interview here! I have been a fan of his work dating back to “Trainspotting”. He is one of the best character actors in the business, as he completely transforms himself throughout each role. Currently he is playing Rumpelstiltskin in the TV series “Once Upon a Time” and that just backs up my comment if you have seen the show. Carlyle completely emerges himself in the role of  Lachlan MacAldonich and easily delivers his best performance to date. If you are looking for a great character drama to sum up the year, then look no further than “California Solo”.

The film follows Lachlan (Robert Carlyle), who is a ex-Britpop rocker that is now working in a farm in Los Angeles. After he gets into a run-in with the law for driving drunk, he faces the treat of deportation. Lachlan has to not only fight to stay in the US but also confront his inner demons that he has been avoiding. We get to see many different aspects of Lachlan as his enters this journey and battles his biggest fears.

What does get me a little upset about this film is that all the hard work will probably not get the respect it deserves. With the theaters crowded with possible award deserving films, the indie gem “California Solo” might get lost in the shuffle. Out of all the performance, I have seen this year, I believe that Carlyle deserves to be recognized for this performance. The man even sing a tune in the song, which only adds to the honesty and rawness of the film.  Director Marshall Lewy also delivers a side of California that you never usually see.  I really enjoyed watching this film through his vision and I will be following to see what he does next very closing. “California Solo” is in theaters now, so if you can track this down be sure not to miss it and spread the word!

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: california, film, review, solo

DVD Review “Mass Effect: Paragon Lost”

Actors: Freddie Prinze Jr., Monica Rial, Vic Mignogna
Directors: Justin Cook
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Funimation
Release Date: December 28, 2012
Run Time: 84 minutes

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

With “Mass Effect 3” tearing up video game systems right now, fans are in looking for more and more.  Thanks to Bioware and visionary Production I.G, we are delivered “Mass Effect: Paragon Lost”, which is an anime prequel to “Mass Effect 3”.  Production I.G. is known for their work on “Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C.” and “Blood: The Last Vampire”. The anime style is great and really works with the franchise. If you are a fan of the “Mass Effect” series and have played 1 and 2, then this is great way to great introduced  into 3.  Now if you haven’t played any it is still overall an awesome anime and will make you run out and purchase the game ASAP! In fact this month there is a newly released “Mass-Effect Trilogy” for Playstation 3.

Officical Premise: Mass Effect: Paragon Lost follows the early career of Alliance Marine, James Vega. Vega leads an elite Special Forces squad into battle against a mysterious alien threat known as The Collectors. Stationed at a colony in a remote star system, Vega and his soldiers must protect civilians from ruthless invaders determined to capture the population for unknown purposes.  Movie audiences will discover new insights into the Mass Effect universe with an unprecedented glimpse into the haunted past of the franchise’s newest hero.

I have to say with anime, I always prefer a Japanese audio track but “Mass Effect: Paragon Lost” really does features a very sharp English voice cast including Freddie Prinze, Jr., Monica Rial (Deadman Wonderland) and Vic Mignogna (Fullmetal Alchemist).  I still would have liked at least an option for a Japanese track but since this is more of a US release, I understand why it is not included. The real stars of the film though is composers David Kates and Joshua R. Mosley really steal the show with their fantastic score. Kates previously worked on the scores for both “Mass Effect” and “Mass Effect 2”, so he knows the series well. I am sure the score would sound even better with the audio track on the Blu-ray release.

The special features for the film are maybe not a lot in terms of quantity but nothing short in quality.  First we get “All Doors Open: A Look Inside Electronic Arts”, which a nice look into the studio.  I really enjoyed “An Inside Look at the Mass Effect Universe”, this is a really in depth look into how much work was but into the film, including character modeling and designing. I really enjoyed this 13 minute featurette. There is a decent behind-the-scenes featurette with “Directing Effect”, which looks into creating the film from the game with cast/crew interviews – also runs a nice 25 minutes. Lastly there is a trailer included.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: dvd, effect, lost, mass, paragon, review, ...

Film Review “Hitchcock”

Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren and Scarlett Johansson
Directed by: Sacha Gervasi
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hour 38 mins
Fox Searchlight

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

More than three decades after his death, director Alfred Hitchcock is still referred to as “The Master of Suspense.” And rightfully so. Films like “Rebecca,” “Vertigo” and “North by Northwest” were wildly successful. Yet, even with that track record, it took every resource he could find to make his most famous film, “Psycho.” But he turned the production into a labor of love, both on screen and behind it.

Any film that includes conversations between one of films greatest directors and killer Ed Gein can best be described as tongue in cheek. And that is the tone director Gervasi sets in “Hitchcock.” Gein, whose horrible crimes were not only the basis for Robert Bloch’s novel “Psycho” but the characters of Leatherface in “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and Buffalo Bill in “Silence of the Lambs.” Incidentally, I didn’t call Gein a serial killer because, even though he killed several people, to save money he was only tried for one murder. And apparently you have to be convicted of at least three murders to be called a “serial” killer. Who knew?

“Hitchcock” finds the great director gaining a new generation of fans through his weekly television program. However, he feels “cheapened” by television and looks for his next great film. Coming across Bloch’s book he becomes fascinated with the subject matter and, despite the protests of the big shots at Paramount, decides to make a movie. Behind the scenes is his long time adoring wife, Alma (Mirren), who was in fact a fine filmmaker before she and “Hitch” met.

Hopkins does a good job imitating the voice and cadence of the great director, however sometimes his makeup makes him look more like Bob Newhart then Hitchcock. As Alma Mirren is strong and decisive. “Psycho” is as much her film as it is Hitchcock’s and the film stresses that point. Johansson and James D’Arcy are well cast as “Psycho” stars Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins while in a quick cameo Ralph Macchio plays screenwriter Joseph Stefano, hired by Hitchcock because he had issues dealing with sex, rage and his mother!

Production values are fine, giving the film a nice period feel. The film is also a nice look back at the early days of Hollywood, when the fact that Hitchcock wanted to show a toilet on screen was deemed shocking.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, hitchcock, review

Blu-ray Review “Dick Tracy”

Actors: Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, Madonna, Glenne Headly, Mandy Patinkin
Directors: Warren Beatty
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Touchstone Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: N/A

When I think of “Dick Tracy”, I immediately get transported back to my grade school school yard back in 1990.  We used to run about the school yard pretending that we were characters from the film.  I even had (and actually still have) school-work folder with the “Dick Tracy” logo.  I had various toys from the film and even shirts.  So is “Dick Tracy”, the best comic book adaption film to date…nope but it has history with me and that is worth the purchase only.

Plus since this film is available on high-def Blu-ray for the very first time, it comes with a hot new digital restoration.  The 1080p transfer really delivers the goods.  The audio track included is DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and works well with the score and the film’s action.  I wish Disney would have given more effort here as well. This film has never looked better (for what it is worth, it’s 1990 come on!).  Fans of this film should definitely check this out, just don’t expect anything in the special features department.

Warren Beatty played the role of Dick Tracy well.  Today he is probably not the best choice but in 1990, he was the bees knees.  Madonna was decent as well and sings a great song “Sooner or Later (I Always Get My Man)”, which won the Oscar that year. But the star of the film is really Al Pacino. I love his take on the character Big Boy. Also who doesn’t love William Forsythe depiction of Flattop. The make-up is this film is awesome and there is no shock that it won the Oscar for Best Makeup that year.

Synopsis: Thecomic strip detective (Beatty) finds his life vastly complicated when Breathless Mahoney (Madonna) makes advances towards him while he is trying to battle Big Boy Caprice’s (Pacino) united mob. Winner of three Academy Awards (1990), including Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Makeup and Best Music (Original Song for “Sooner or Later (I Always Get My Man)”).

This release comes as a combo pack with Blu-ray disc and digital copy. I would have also like to see an DVD copy as well. There are zero special features included on this release, which is very disappointing. I would have loved to at least gotten a trailer or even better the animated short “Roller Coaster Rabbit”, which was released theatrically with this movie. Oh well there is always the 25 anniversary in three years, hint-hint!

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, dick, review, tracy

Blu-ray Review “Heavyweights”

Actors: Ben Stiller, Tim Blake Nelson, David Goldman, Kenan Thompson, Cody Burger, Joseph Wayne Miller
Director: Steven Brill
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Walt Disney Home Video
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 97 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

I have never been a big fan of “Heavyweights”.  Let’s just say that age does not make this film any better. It features the early writing and executive producing from Judd Apatow, whom I am not a big fan of to begins with.  A little trivia about the film is that it features appearances from the father-mother-son team: Jerry Stiller, Anne Meara, and Ben Stiller. Obviously, this is the best role that Stiller has ever done.  I have a feeling the only reason why Disney is releasing this catalog title on Blu-ray is to cash-in on Apatow’s latest film “This is 40”.  It is not really a film that I would rush out and purchase on high-definition though. I would only recommend for mega-fans of the film only, if not just for the special features.

Synopsis: From the Producer of Bridesmaids…comes Heavyweights, a comedy of enormous proportions! It’s the hilarious story of a group of underdog kids who discover their beloved summer camp has been sold to a crazy fitness fanatic (Ben Stiller) who’s determined to make their lives miserable! The new owner plans to keep the boys huffing and puffing, but these hungry kids have a plan of their own. They unite to turn the tables, take back their woodsy hideaway and challenge the rival camp to themost outrageous summer games of all! You’ll laugh out loud with these Heavyweights – they’re big, loud and proud, and ready to win their way into your heart!

The 1080p video transfer for this release looks good but nothing stunning. The audio track included is a decent DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, which works overall but nothing special either.  Like I said, this isn’t really a film that was yearning for a Blu-ray upgrade. The special features are the best part of the release.  There is a behind-the-scenes feature called “The Making of Heavyweights”. There is a new audio commentary track with Judd Apatow, Steven Brill, Allen Covert, Aaron Schwartz, Shaun Weiss, Tom Hodges and Special Guest Paul Feig.  There are over 30 never-before-seen deleted & extended scenes.  There is a new video chat with Judd Apatow and Kenan Thompson.  There is some fun Super 8 footage of the Cast and Crew.  “Judd’s Art Project” are bizarre photos From the set taken by the executive producer. “Where Are They Now?” looks into the film’s cast and their current status.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, heavyweights, review

Blu-ray Review “Babes in Toyland (1961)”

Actors: Ray Bolger, Ed Wynn, Tommy Kirk, Annette Funicello, Tommy Sands, Ann Jilliann
Directors: Jack Donohue
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: December 11, 2012
Run Time: 106 minutes

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

“Babes in Toyland (1961)” is timed perfectly for the Holiday season. This is the first time that this film has been released on Blu-ray. The 1080p transfer looks sharp on this release. Disney has delivered the good for for a film that over 50 years old, it doesn’t show it’s age. The production scale is so memorable and really doesn’t skimp on quality. A little trivia about the film is that this was Disney’s first live-action musical fantasy…and who doesn’t love a nice Disney musical, especially a holiday themed one! This was also produced by Walt Disney himself. This is a perfect film to get in the mood for the holidays!

Official Synopsis: Tom the Piper’s Son is about to marry Mary Quite Contrary. On the eve of their wedding, evil miser Barnaby hires two henchmen to drown Tom and steal Mary’s sheep, cared for by Little Bo Peep, thus depriving Mary and the children she lives with of their livelihood, forcing her to marry Barnaby. The sheep arestolen, but Gonzorgo and Roderigo, Barnaby’s henchmen, double-cross him by selling Tom to a band of gypsies instead, leaving Tom with the opportunity to escape and make his way with Mary, Bo-Peep, and other Mother Goose characters to Toyland.

Like I mentioned the video transfer is sharp for “Babes in Toyland”, which is also presented with an original aspect ratio of 1:33:1. The new digital restoration really delivers the goods and does not disappoint. The audio track is not as impressive though as the video transfer with its Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono surround track. I would have liked to see a little more effort in the audio department here. Also to add insult to injury there are no special features included as well, which really makes this release feel more like a port then an upgrade. This is still worth the low-price for this Blu-ray though, especially for hardcore Disney fans.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1961, babes, bluray, review, toyland

Blu-ray Review “Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two”

Actors: Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, LeVar Burton, Marina Spirtis
Number of discs: 5
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Paramount
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 998 minutes

Season Two: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” has become one of my favorite series, but only in the last few years. I got into it thanks to Netflix Instant. When I got a chance to review “Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season One” earlier this year, I was blown away by the way the episodes looked. Well it season two, I believe they went beyond and delivered a more impressive release (if that is possible). Season two also delivers the birth of the fan-favorite baddies, Borg. They are the best villains of the series! Resistance is futile! One of my favorite episodes of the series happen during season two: “The Measure of a Man”. Fans of the series are sure to do back flips for this release.  Also it is perfectly timed to be added to everyone’s Christmas lists and also nicely priced as well, compared to season one.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two” Blu-ray looks extremely impressive with it’s high definition transfer. The series is presented with its original broadcast 4×3 aspect ratio, which is perfect and expected. Like season one, this series contains improved special effects from the original camera negatives. If you are a fan of this series and know it well, you will have your mouth open experience these upgrades. The star of this release though has to be Season Two’s surround-sound pumping DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. Obviously the soundtrack wasn’t made with that but I can’t help but get goosebumps when I hear that theme song in 7.1 sound. Of course for the hardcore Trekkies, there is also the original Stereo Surround audio included as well.

Official Premise: Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season Two travels warp speed into the next realm of adventure. Under the leadership of Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart), the Enterprise faces a season of new changes and big challenges. With Dr. Crusher on sabbatical, Chief Medical Officer Katherine Pulaski (Diana Muldaur) fills in. And Guinan (Whoopi Goldberg) arrives as 10 Forward’s wise El-Aurian bartender. This voyage explores watershed moments, including Riker (Jonathan Frakes) experiencing the Klingon culture, Data (Brent Spiner) defending his humanity and the introduction of the Borg, a species of terrifying cybernetic conquerors threatening the fate of intelligent life.

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” – Season Two has various special features spread out over all five discs. They are a nice improvement over season one.  To start each episodes contain their own “episodic promos”, which are an awesome retro look at the series.  Disc one extras start with an 1998 On-Air Season Two Promo, “Energized! Season Two Tech Update” is a chat with Dan Curry, Michael and Denise Okuda about release season two to high definition. Decent but I wish it was much longer. There is 1988 Star Trek-themed “Reading Rainbow” Segment with LeVar Burton, as well as a 2012 Reading Rainbow iTunes Promo with Burton showing off his new Reading Rainbow app. Lastly there is “Archival Mission Log: Departmental Briefing Year Two – Production”, which is a vintage featurette looking into a the “best of” from the filming of season two.

Disc Two brings various cuts of my favorite episode “The Measure of a Man”.  It includes an HD Extended Version, which runs 57:35 minutes from Editor Robert Lederman.  The extended cut includes thirteen minutes of new footage, which was recently turned up from Writer Melinda Snodgrass’ private VHS tape collectionand then reconstructed in high definition. Next, we have a Hybrid Extended Version for “The Measure of a Man” running at 55:50 minutes. This version of the episode that mixes up the broadcast footage in high definition and the rough VHS footage.  It is raw but still a cool look at the amazing episode.  Lastly, there is an amazing audio commentary track from Melinda Snodgrass, Michael and Denise Okuda as they discuss about the episode.

Disc Three consists of two “Archival Mission Logs” featurettes.  The first is “Inside Starfleet Archives: Penny Juday – Star Trek Coordinator”, which has her speaking about her role as the Star Trek archivist, with Star Trek Magazine and working on the film “Star Trek: Nemesis”. Next up is “Selected Crew Analysis – Year Two”, which features various cast/crew chatting about the show’s characters roles including Patrick Stewart, LeVar Burton,  Gene Roddenberry, Rick Berman, Wil Wheaton, Marina Sirtis, Diana Muldaur and Peter Lauritson.  Lastly there is a funny Gag Reel, presented in HD and runs about 10 minutes.

The star of Disc Four extra is the audio commentary track from Dan Curry, Rob Bowman, and Mike & Denise Okuda for the episode “Q Who?”.  Lastly, there is also another “Archival Mission Log” called “Departmental Analysis Year Two – Memorable Missions”.  It features interviews with cast and crew on the following episodes:  “Loud as a Whisper”, “The Icarus Factor”, “Up the Long Ladder”, “The Dauphin”, “Elementary, Dear Data”, “Manhunt”, and “The Measure of a Man”.

Disc Five has the best extras of any disc and also the best feature in the whole release, which is “Reunification: 25 Years After Star Trek: The Next Generation”, which runs just over an hour.  It is a awesome cast reunion with all of the primary cast members — Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Marina Sirtis, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, and Wil Wheaton.  It just makes me want to give them all a hug and re-watch the episodes again! “Make it So – Continuing Star Trek: The Next Generation”. It consists of two parts, the first part 1 – “Strange New Worlds” and the second “New Life and New Civilizations”.  Each one runs about 40 minutes and is a look into the season’s best qualities and character in depth from cast, crew and others.  Lastly there is one more final “Archival Mission Log” called “Mission Overview – Year Two”, which is a look into Roddenberry’s plans for the future and reflection on the show’s success.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, generation, review, season, star, trek, ...
« sdf
Previous
Page 179 of 272
Next
Next Page »