Film Review “Alter Egos”

Starring: Kris Lemche, Brooke Nevin, Joey Kern, Danny Masterson, John Ventimiglia
Director: Jordan Galland
Distributor: Phase 4 Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 79 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

With a year jam-packed with superheros like “The Avengers” and “The Dark Knight”, “Alter Egos” is the counter-opposite of the spectrum. It is a fun quirky indie dark comedy. It started off and write away it make me think of “The Incredibles”, when the superheros are outlawed.  But this takes its own unique approach to the superhero genre. The film itself I would say lays more on the dark side of the comedy and less of the belly laughs. But there is some good material in this film to entertain.  Overall it might not best film ever but if you got nothing else to do for 80 minutes it is worth checking out.

“Alter Egos” takes place in a variation our world in which super heroes are real but not respected. They have taken care of all crime and since then lost government funding and public support. The film focuses around the superhero, Fridge (Lemche), who is going through his own emotional crisis and leans on his friend and fellow superhero C-Thru (Kern) and a new girl to assist. Though both of them have their own issues as well to deal with.

The film is very smarty written and directed by Jordan Galland, known for his Kris Lemche (“Final Destination 3”) and Joey Kern (“Super Troopers)” plays the main superheros – Fridge and C-Thru (respectively). Both of these get some decent laughs, especially when C-Thru is standing nose to nose with a brick wall. Danny Masterson steals the show though as the asshole cop/superhero reject Jimmy, who’s ability is to turn invisible for only 2.3 secods. The film also has music from Sean Lennon, who also has a quick cameo as well. The great casting overall is one of the main reasons why this film succeeds. The film is available now on VOD, check it!

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CD Review: James Taylor “James Taylor At Christmas (Extra Tracks)”

James Taylor
“James Taylor At Christmas”
Label: Universal Music Enterprises
Tracks: 14
Release Date: October 30, 2012
Running Time: 50 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“James Taylor At Christmas” was released back in 2006 and it is being released this year with two new tracks.  The first track is Taylor’s French rendition of “O Christmas Tree” titled “Mon Beau Sapin”, which is only available on this collection. The second track isn’t really a Christmas track per se but it is Beatles cover for “Here Comes The Sun” with cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Still a fantastic and moving track. Also appearing the album are talented guest starts including Chris Botti, Natalie Cole and Toots Theilemans. This album has always been successful in getting into the holiday spirit over the years and I am sure it will continue now with this expanded release.

This collection includes some really great holiday favorites performed within Taylor’s unique sound.  There is a jazzy renditions of both “Winter Wonderland” and “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”.  “The Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) is really a perfect track for the holidays. Natalie Cole and Taylor deliver a wonderful duet with “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”.  I have to say though my favorite track is the cover of Joni Mitchell’s “River” and my least favorite is still “Go Tell It On the Mountain”, which is the one I always skip. The album also ends perfectly with the New Year’s classic “Auld Lang Syne”. James Taylor’s voice is really a nice marriage with the Christmas season.  I personally am a fan of simple and quiet Christmas songs and there is something for everyone here.  This will leave you not only inspired and but also full-blown in the holiday mood.

Track Listing:
1. Winter Wonderland
2. Go Tell It On The Mountain
3. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
4. Jingle Bells
5. Baby It’s Cold Outside
6. River
7. Here Comes The Sun
8. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
9. Some Children See Him
10. Mon Beau Sapin
11. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)
12. Who Comes This Night
13. In The Bleak Midwinter
14. Auld Lang Syne

 

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CD Review: John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John “This Christmas”

John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John
“This Christmas”
Label: Universal Music Enterprises
Tracks: 13
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Running Time: 44 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John are back.  It has been 35 years since their last duet “You’re The One That I Want” in “Grease”. The track in fact just became the best-selling duet in pop music history, so it is only right that they join forces again. “This Christmas” is a newly recorded album featuring some great Christmas favorites with guest appearances from amazing talent including Barbara Streisand, Tony Bennett, Kenny G and James Taylor! So is this reuniting as sharp and hot as it was in “Grease”? Not really, but it is Christmas, so I have to give this duet some points for at least sharing their Christmas spirit.  It is a little cheesy here and there but that is what Christmas is about and this album really captures it and aims to deliver a smile to everyone listening.

The CD includes twelve classic covers of Christmas songs and even a brand new original track titled “I Think You Might Like It”.  It is composed by John Farrar and set as a sequel to their famous smash hit. I got to tell you the track is worth the price of the CD alone. It is a really fun up-tempo pop track.  Olivia Newton-John’s voice sounds great still. John Travolta is not at his prime since “Grease” but still sounds decent, though I can’t help but smirk a little when he comes on.   Other great tracks are “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” with Kenny G on horns. “Silent Night” is nicely paced and beautiful duet. Barbara Streisand joins in for the jazzy take on “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”. “Winter Wonderland” is a real gem and big-band feel with Tony Bennett and the Count Basie Orchestra and of course the best Christmas duet is “Baby It’s Cold Outside”, it is a great album opener.

So this might not be the best Christmas album ever, but it does what it is suppose to.  With Christmas right around the corner, it spreads some great Holiday cheer. I also love the reuniting of John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John, they are really cute together and seem to be having a lot of fun together. I have a feeling that this album will be a yearly revisit each year.  What makes this worth wild is that Travolta and Newton-John are donating the artist proceeds from the album equally to their respective charities, the Jett Travolta Foundation and the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in Melbourne, Australia. So not only is this a cheesy-yet fun collection of Christmas songs but it is also helping a good cause. I recommend this for sure!

Track Listing:
1. Baby It’s Cold Outside
2. Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree
3. I’ll Be Home For Christmas
4. This Christmas
5. Silent Night
6. The Christmas Waltz
7. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
8. Winter Wonderland
9. White Christmas
10. I Think You Might Like It
11. The Christmas Song
12. Deck The Halls
13. Auld Lang Syne/Christmas Time Is Here (Medley)

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Blu-ray Review “ParaNorman”

Starring: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, John Goodman, Casey Affleck
Directors: Sam Fell, Chris Butler
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: November 27, 2012
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

“ParaNorman” is the latest film from Laika, the studio behind one of my favorite films “Coraline”. This is one of those films that really grow with you with each viewing. I really enjoy this film in 3D and though that it added a lot to the film but we only had the chance to review this in 2D. So I feel that it is still worth checking out but I would recommend this in 3D firstly. I would add a half a star to this in 3D, which is an improvement from my theatrical review. I still feel that some parts are a bit too scary for some kids. I love the little horror Easter eggs spread out all over the film.  Enjoy and see how many you can find?! Overall, this is a decent follow-up feature for Laika but it doesn’t come close to the charm of “Coraline”. I can’t wait to see what they are going to deliver next. If for nothing else, this film deserves to be seen just to dignify how much work was put into it.

Official Premise: From the makers of Coraline comes the story of Norman, a boy who must use his special powers to save his town from a centuries-old curse. In addition to spooky zombies, he’ll also have to take on unpredictable ghosts, wily witches and, worst, of all, clueless grown-ups. But this young ghoul whisperer will soon find his paranormal activities pushed to their otherworldly limits. Featuring the voice talents of Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin and John Goodman, it’s a frightfully funny tale for the whole family.

This releases does come within a very nice combo pack with a Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy discs and even Ultraviolet Digital Streaming Copy. The 1080p transfer still looks sharp and really pops with the very colorful film.  Though I still feel that it works better in 3D.  The film itself is actually quite action packed and does comes with a decent DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track.  The special features are good and worth checking out if you enjoyed the film.  Starting off, there is a very informative commentary track with Director Sam Fell and Writer/Director Chris Butler. Next we have, “Preliminary Animatic Sequences” again with commentary from Director Sam Fell and Writer/Director Chris Butler. “Peering Through the Veil” is a look into the world created for this film including the town and the characters.  Lastly there are seven short featurettes spotlighting Norman and his extraordinarily unusual costars.

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Blu-ray Review “The Dark Knight Rises”

Actors: Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy
Directors: Christopher Nolan
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 165 minutes

Film: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

Prior to the release of “The Dark Knight Rises”, there were many questions that were being asked.  Most importantly “Could it actually be better “The Dark Knight”? Well, the answer is no but it is still fantastic and easily one of the best films of the year.  “The Dark Knight” exists in a world entirely of it own.  It is by far the best superhero movie to date, yes even better than “The Avengers”.  “The Dark Knight Rises” does provide a very satisfying ending to a fantastic trilogy from Christopher Nolan.  I am sure some might disagree but I was left very happy with how the events came together in this film.  But I have to give Tom Hardy the coolness award since Bane was easily my favorite part of the film and no, his voice was not a problem for me at all.  In fact, his voice was one of the factors that I loved the most. Speaking of voices, I am also glad that Bale calmed down his Batman voice, so it is not so cowlI saw this film in IMAX and though it is a hard act to follow the Blu-ray presentation is extremely impressive as well.

This releases comes in a three-disc set including two Blu-rays and one DVD.  There is also a Ultraviolet digital  streaming copy included. Warner Bros’ 1080p transfer does look stunning, as I started to say above.  The most important factor is that the switch between traditionally filmed sequences presented at 2.40:1 and 70mm IMAX scenes presented at 1.78:1 are seamless. Though, I was impressed most with the audio on the film.  Literally my surround sound was pumping with this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. I wasn’t a major fan of Hans Zimmer’s score prior to this but I was really digging it on this Blu-ray.  I see myself revisiting this score again now. Overall easily, one of the best Blu-ray presentations of the year!

Before we get to the special features, I would like to quickly mention that Warner Bros has just released the new “The Dark Knight Rises FX” app, which is jam-packed with some really cool features including being able to shoot their own video and have the Camo Tumbler drive through it; put themselves in the Camo Tumbler in a photo. You can also impose yourself into The Dark Knight Rises “RISE” poster and also place the mask from Batman, Bane or Catwoman onto your own photo. This is highly recommended for all fans of the film. The app is free and available now from the App store and is compatible with 4th generation iPod touch devices, iPhone 4, iPad2 and the New iPad. Check it out, here.

The special features are impressive and a really step up from fellow-superhero Blu-ray release “The Avengers”.  Most of the extras of located on the second Blu-ray with the exception of “The Second Screen Experience”, which allows allows you to sync your device with the Blu-ray for additional content. The first feature on the second disc is quite the whooper filed under “Production”, running just over an hour.  It is consisted of twelve featurettes including  “The Prologue: High-Altitude Hijacking,” “Return to the Batcave,” “Beneath Gotham,” “The Bat,” “Batman vs. Bane,” “Armory Accepted,” “Gameday Destruction,” “Demolishing a City Street,” “The Pit,” “The Chant,” “The War on Wall Street” and “Race to the Reactor.”   They feature Christopher Nolan along with cast and crew as they dig deep into the film’s production. “Characters” are broken down in two three featurettes, totally about 30 minutes, including “The Journey of Bruce Wayne,” “Gotham’s Reckoning” (Bane) and “A Girl’s Gotta Eat” (Selina Kyle).  “Reflections” consists of two features including “Shadows & Light in Large Format” which focuses on Wally Pfister role and “The End of a Legend” looks into the end of this trilogy. “The Batmobile” is an awesome piece on of the coolest aspects of Batman…his car, it also runs just sign of an hour. Lastly there are four theatrical trailers summing up this release.

Official Premise: The Dark Knight Rises” is the epic conclusion to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act. But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane.

“The Dark Knight Rises” available on Blu-ray Combo pack, DVD and for download 12/4!
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Blu-ray Review “Cinderella II: Dreams Come True / Cinderella III: A Twist in Time”

Starring: Jennifer Hale, Tress MacNeille, Rob Paulsen, Corey Burton, Holland Taylor, Susanne Blakeslee
Directors: Frank Nissen, John Kafka
Number of discs: 3
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 20, 2012
Running Time: 73 / 70 minutes

Cinderella II: Dreams Come True: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Cinderella III: A Twist in Time: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

How can you follow up to wonderful and timeless story of “Cinderella”. “Cinderella II: Dreams Come True” is a poor excuse for a sequel to one of the best fairy tale stories ever. The animation really is poor and really shows it’s direct-to-video roots. To be honest, I wouldn’t purchase this if it wasn’t in a combo pack. “Cinderella III: A Twist in Time” is a much better follow-up.  It delivers a really nice twist on the classic story and also packs some really fun songs. This film does make this release worth the purchase and I would just take “Cinderella II”, as a bonus feature.  In terms of delivery, “Cinderella II & III” are presented on one Blu-ray disc, while each film is also available on their own individual DVD. Overall, I would recommend this for probably only hardcore Disney fans!

“Cinderella II: Dreams Come True”: As a newly crowned princess, Cinderella quickly learns that life at the Palace – and her royal responsibilities – are more challenging than she had imagined. In three heartwarming tales, Cinderella calls on her animal friends and her Fairy Godmother to help as she brings her own grace and charm to her regal role and discovers that being true to yourself is the best way to make your dreams come true.

“Cinderella III: A Twist In Time”: Princess Cinderella is living a charmingly perfect life until her stepmother gets her hands on Fairy Godmother’s magic wand. With a wicked spell that turns back the clock, she erases the Prince’s memories of the girl he met at the ball and shatters Cinderella’s happily ever after! Jaq and Gus scurry to save the day before time runs out. But was it all really just a dream in Cinderella’s heart, or will true love triumph over all?

Despite being pretty bad, “Cinderella II: Dreams Come True” still looks the best it ever has on Blu-ray with its 1080p transfer and its 1.66:1 aspect ratio. “Cinderella III: A Twist In Time” also looks fantastic with its 1080p transfer and its 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Both films also sport a nice DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. The special features do not add much to this release. There is a feature called “Becoming a Princess” which is included in a two-part feature. The 1st Edition is with “Cinderella II” and 2nd Edition is with “Cinderella III” and both are new features for this release. They takes you through princess school and the process of being transformed into a Disney Princess. “Musical Magic” looks into the songs in the “Cinderella 2”. Lastly, there is a music video for the song “Put It Together”.

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CD/DVD Review: Motorhead “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”

Motorhead
“The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”
Motorhead Music
Producer: David Pattenden
Music Tracks: 28
DVD Tracks: 28

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Motorhead are back with a brand new live CD/DVD/Blu-Ray release titled “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”. The release features 2 audio CD’s and both the DVD and Blu-Ray formats of the concerts featured on the audio discs. Produced by David Pattenden and released via Motorhead Music “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else” is jammed packed with one louder goodness from start to finish.

Picking up where the bands 2011 live release “The World is Ours- Vol. 1 Everywhere Further Than Everywhere Else” left off Vol.2 takes things a step further with the big bonus being the 4 disc packaging which includes both standard DVD and HD Blu-Ray formats of the concert footage. The release includes performances from the bands 2011 Wacken Open Air Festival, Sonisphere and Rock in Rio appearances. Though the track listings of Vol. 1 and 2 are quite similar there is still enough different material contained on Vol. 2 to make it worth picking up. A definite nod should be given to mixer Cameron Webb who did a wonderful job with each of the 28 tracks. Songs such as “Iron Fist”, “The Chase is Better Than the Catch” and “Killed by Death” jump out of the speakers making you feel like you are in the front row. Lemmy’s vocals sound crisp and clear which only adds to the listening experience. When it comes to the video portion of the release be prepared to go to 11. Both DVD and Blu-Ray versions of the corresponding shows feature stunning visuals and great camera angles which capture all the non-stop action from both the band and the audiences view points.

Though I would have liked to have seen more in the way of special features in the video portion and possibly a bit more variation in the set lists the release is still a really great package plus I don’t think you can ever go wrong with multiple versions of “Ace of Spades” being included on the same album. If you want the live Motorhead experience without leaving the comfort of your living room “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else” is going to be about as close as you can get.

Disc 1 CD Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) Stay Clean
3.) Get Back in Line
4.) Metropolis
5.) Over the Top
6.) One Night Stand
7.) Rock Out
8.) The Thousand Names of God
9.) I Know How to Die
10.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
11.) In the Name of Tragedy
12.) Just ‘Cos You Got the Power
13.) Going to Brazil
14.) Killed by Death
15.) Bomber

Disc 2 CD Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Ace of Spades
2.) Overkill
Sonisphere Festival
3.) Iron Fist
4.) I Know How to Die
5.) In The Name of Tragedy
6.) Killed by Death
7.) Ace of Spades
8.) Overkill
Rock in Rio
9.) Stay Clean
10.) Over the Top
11.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
12.) Going to Brazil
13.) Killed By Death

DVD/Blu-Ray Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) Stay Clean
3.) Get Back in Line
4.) Metropolis
5.) Over the Top
6.) One Night Stand
7.) Rock Out
8.) The Thousand Names of God
9.) I Know How to Die
10.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
11.) In the Name of Tragedy
12.) Just ‘Cos You Got the Power
13.) Going to Brazil
14.) Killed by Death
15.) Bomber
16.) Ace of Spades
17.) Overkill

Sonisphere Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) I Know How to Die
3.) In The Name of Tragedy
4.) Killed by Death
5.) Ace of Spades
6.) Overkill

Rock in Rio
1.) Stay Clean
2.) Over the Top
3.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
4.) Going to Brazil
5.) Killed By Death

Bonus Feature:
Festival Impressions W:O:A

 

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Film Review “Silver Linings Playbook”

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence and Robert DeNiro
Directed by: David O. Russell
Rated: R
Running time: 2 hours 2 minutes
The Weinstein Company

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Let’s say you come home early and are surprised to find your wife in the shower. With another man. What would you do? If you’re Pat Solitano, Jr. (Cooper) you beat the hell out of him. Of course you now find yourself out of a job, out of a wife and spending eight months in a mental facility. But now you’re going home, which means things are bound to get better. Right?

Based on the novel “The Silver Linings Playbook” by Matthew Quick, “Silver Linings Playbook” is a sharp and smart mixture of tears and laughter, both happy and sad. The story follows Pat, Jr. as he begins his life while moving back in with his folks; mother Dolores (“Animal Kingdom” Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver) and father Pat Sr. (DeNiro – no introduction needed). Seems pop is a diehard Philadelphia Eagles fan and runs a successful bookmaking racket out of his kitchen. Once home Pat, Jr. begins jogging and reading books his wife, also a teacher, has taught, hoping that when she sees him paying attention to both his mind and his body she will take him back. He is also introduced to Tiffany (Lawrence), a young woman whose policeman-husband recently died. Tiffany also has problems and the two of them become friends while working towards a mutual goal. A goal that is important to both.

Packed with real life moments and sometimes brutal honesty, “Silver Linings Playbook” will, I’m sure, always be remembered as the film in which Bradley Cooper made the jump from former “Sexiest Man Alive” to top notch actor. Even in roles in films that don’t include the word “Hangover” in their title, Cooper has always managed to hide just a little bit behind his smile and blue eyes. But here he is stripped naked, emotionally, and gives a performance that is sure to be on the short list of Oscar nominees this year. Also surprising is the gift of comedy that Lawrence possesses. Having gone from unknown actress to Oscar nominee to “The Hunger Games” in what seemed like a blink of an eye, Lawrence shows herself a master of timing and plays off Cooper brilliantly. DeNiro and Weaver also breathe life into what could have been very clichéd and overdone performances.

Writer/director Russell, whose last film, “The Fighter,” also dealt with some dysfunctional family moments, continues to grow as a storyteller. Here he places his camera directly into the moment, allowing the viewer to experience the characters first hand. The script is solid, with only a few moments that don’t ring true.

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Blu-ray Review “Catch Me If You Can”

Actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Martin Sheen, Christopher Walken
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 141 minutes

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

It is hard to believe but “Catch Me If You Can” turns 10 years old this year. I remember seeing it in the theaters for the first time and being blown away. But I have to admit that I have yet to see it again since then. What better time to revisit this release that the wonderful Blu-ray first-time on Blu-ray thanks to Paramount. This is one of Steven Spielberg’s last great films. It also starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks in one of their best roles to date. The Blu-ray presentation is very impressive and looks sharp with its new 1080p transfer and presented in its original aspect ratio: 1.85:1. The Blu-ray also treks a sweet DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, which works with the fast-dialogue before the characters. Timed with the release of Spielberg’s latest “Lincoln”, 10 years have been kind of this film and I highly recommend this Blu-ray.

Official Premise: Frank didn’t go to flight school Frank didn’t go to medical school Frank didn’t go to law school because Frank’s still in high school! Inspired by the true story of a brilliant young master of deception and the FBI agent hot on his trail. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks. Frank W. Abagnale, Jr. successfully passes himself off as a pilot, a lawyer and a doctor all before his 21st birthday!

The special features include over an hour of extras that are very impressive but basically ports from previous DVD releases. “Catch Me If You Can: Behind the Camera” is a nice look into the Steven Spielberg production. Next up, “Catch Me If You Can: The Casting of the Film” is a five part feature that goes into detail on each character including, Leonardo DiCaprio as “Frank Abagnale, Jr.”, Tom Hanks as “Carl Hanratty”, Frank’s Parents: Christopher Walken and Nathalie Baye, The Strong Family: Martin Sheen and Amy Adams and Jennifer Garner as “Cheryl Ann”. “Scoring: Catch Me If You Can” focuses on John Williams’ score. The next four features look in to the real Frank in “Frank Abagnale: Between Reality and Fiction”, including “Meet Frank Abagnale”, “Frank Becomes a Pilot”, “Frank’s Careers” and “Frank Gets Caught and Turns His Life Around”. There is plenty of background information here. The last two featurettes focus on “The FBI Perspective” and “Catch Me If You Can: In Closing”. Lastly there are three Photo Galleries focusing on Cast, Behind-the-Scenes and Costume Design.

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Blu-ray Review “Suddenly (1954)”

Actors: Frank Sinatra, Sterling Hayden, James Gleason, Nancy Gates
Directors: Lewis Allen
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
DVD Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 76 minutes

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

Frank Sinatra is known for his wonderful voice but some forget what a fantastic actor he is as well! Sinatra comes back right after his Oscar-winning turn from “From Here to Eternity” playing the role of a psychopathic hit man. It is awesome to see “Ol’ Blue Eyes” get a chance to play the baddie.  Image Entertainment has done a wonderful job restoring this film to Blu-ray since it was transferred from the Original 35mm Studio Fine Grain Master Print.  So the presentation on Blu-ray could not get any better.  Fans of Sinatra should not miss this film and Blu-ray.  Did mention it would make a wonderful Christmas gift for all dads! Hint, Hint!

Official Premise: Terror comes to the sleepy small town of Suddenly when a cold-blooded assassin takes a family hostage. Now, the clock is ticking and every precious second counts as they band together to stop this methodical killer before he can carry out his shocking plan. Academy Award-winner Frank Sinatra (From Here to Eternity) gives a “tour de force” (The New York Times) performance in the most astonishing role of his career. Sterling Hayden (The Killing) costars as the sheriff who is pitted against this cool and cunning psychopath in a tense battle of wills. Available in pristine HD with superior picture and sound, this is the definitive collector’s edition of this controversial classic of unnerving suspense.

For a film that is nearly 60 years old, it looks stunning within it’s 1080p transfer.  The audio track included is a DTS-HD master Audio 1.o track, which also works very well with this low-budget film noir thriller.  The special features are primarily commentary track but are worth the purchase alone.  There is a brand new audio commentary track from Frank Sinatra Jr, which is a must listen.  There is also a brand new audio commentary track with Dr. Drew Casper, a Professor of American Film.  It is more fact based but still very informative. There is a bonus short film included directed by Francis Thompson “N.Y., N.Y.: A Day in New York (1957)” and featuring amazing music from Gene Forrell. Lastly there is an image gallery included.

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DVD Review “Doctor Who: Limited Edition Gift Set”

Actors: Matt Smith, David Tennant, Christopher Eccleston, Billie Piper, Freema Agyeman, Karen Gillian
Number of discs: 41
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: BBC Home Entertainment
Release Date: November 20, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

BBC Home Entertainment is answering the prayers of every Doctor Who fan just in time for the holiday season with the release of “Doctor Who Limited Edition Gift Set”. This limited edition Doctor Who collector’s box feature over 70 hours of “Doctor Who” amazing-ness plus many more of special features. The set also includes a collectible 11th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver, three original art cards and the comic book, “Doctor Who at Comic Con.” To honest I was a little disappointed with the packaging since it is a bit of a pain to open and close. Also in order to get to the comic book and card, you need to remove all of the contents. The 11th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver alone is a $30 value and is overall pretty rad to play with. The three original art cards are super cool as well and will look nice in a frame. Lastly, the comic book included “Doctor Who at Comic Con”, is a nice addition as well. This should satisfy all fans of the series but if you have been purchasing each series DVD as it has been released, the extra disc and goodies might not be worth the price.

This gift set includes the series in it’s DVD format spread out of 41 sci-fi packed discs. There are no Blu-ray’s included though. We all know that first few series of “Doctor Who” were shot on standard definition video, but since the 11th Doctor they have been releasing them on Blu-ray. So in this gift set, I understand them including only DVD to keep it uniform but I still prefer my Blu-ray releases of Series 5 and 6. So we get Series 1-6 and The Complete Specials (The Next Doctor / Planet of the Dead / The Waters of Mars / The End of Time Parts 1 and 2) included in their previously released packaging. Series 1-4 has never been released on Blu-ray and are currently only available on DVD. While Series 5-6 and The Complete Specials are also currently available on Blu-ray.

This gift set also includes a DVD of never-before-released specials including: “The Women of Doctor Who”, “The Timey – Wimey of Doctor Who” and “The Destinations of Doctor Who”. “The Women of Doctor Who” looks at the great women behind ever time lord. “The Timey – Wimey of Doctor Who” looks into what timey-wimey is exactly with star Arthur Darvill. “The Destinations of Doctor Who” takes up in a time machine to the travels through the universe, you never know where you”ll end up including the year 5 billion. These specials have all originally aired on BBC America but have never-before-released on DVD. They are must have for all “Whovians”.

Series 1 includes all 13 episodes of the BBC sci-fi classic, which served as the reboot for the show. It was written by Russell T. Davies and starred Christopher Eccleston as The Doctor. His joins up with companion Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) to save the world. I liked Eccleson as the Doctor but something was a little off about the way he portrayed him. Episodes included are: “Rose”; “The End of the World”; “The Unquiet Dead”; “Aliens of London”; “World War Three”; “Dalek”; “The Long Game”; “Father”s Day”; “The Empty Child”; “The Doctor Dances”; “Boom Town”; “Bad Wolf”; and “The Parting of the Ways”.

Series 2 included all 14 episodes, primarily written by Russell T. Davies. It also introduces a new Doctor, played by David Tennant. In this series, it features the tenth Doctor continuing to travel with companion Rose Tyler. I liked Christopher Eccleston as the Doctor but Tennant taking over was simply brilliant. Episodes included are: “The Christmas Invasion,” “New Earth,” “Tooth And Claw,” “School Reunion,” “The Girl In The Fireplace,” “Rise Of The Cybermen,” “TheAge of Steel,” “The Idiot”s Lantern,” “The Impossible Planet,” “The Satan Pit,” “Love & Monsters,” “Fear Her,” “Army Of Ghosts” and “Doomsday.” This series really has some of the best episodes to date.

Series 3 includes all 14 episodes and stars David Tennant as the Doctor with companion Martha Jones (Freema Agyeman) after Rose Tyler became stuck in the parallel world..forever. I was never a fan of this series but it has seen grown on me, since it packs some wonderful intense episodes. Episodes included are: “Smith and Jones”, “The Shakespeare Code”, “Gridlock”, “Daleks in Manhattan”, “Evolution of the Daleks”, “The Lazarus Experiment”, “42”, “Human Nature”, “The Family of Blood”, “Blink”, “Utopia”, “The Sound of Drums”, “Last of the Timelords” and the 2006 Christmas special “The Runaway Bride”, starring Catharine Tate.

Series 4 includes all 14 episodes and continues David Tennant playing the Doctor, in his last go around (until the specials) with yet another companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate), who appeared first in “The Runaway Bride”. Episodes included are: “Partners in Crime”, “The Fires of Pompeii”, “Planet of the Ood”, “The Sontaran Stratagem”, “The Poison Sky”, “The Doctor”s Daughter”, “The Unicorn and the Wasp”, “Silence in the Library”, “Forest of the Dead”, “Midnight”, “Turn Left”, “The Stolen Earth” and “Journey”s End”. Overall decent season but not a big fan of Catherine Tate but at least we get more Rose Tyler. Also very sad to see the end of Tennant playing the Doctor.

Series 5 includes all 13 episodes and begins the next wave of the franchise with Matt Smith taking over as The Doctor and Karen Gillan, as his companion, Amy Pond. This is by far one of my favorite seasons as a whole, in sense of the storyline. Episodes included are: “The Eleventh Hour”, “The Beast Below”, “Victory of the Daleks”, “The Time of Angels”, “Flesh and Stone”, “The Vampires of Venice”, “Amy’s Choice”, “The Hungry Earth”, “Cold Blood”, “Vincent and the Doctor”, “The Lodger”, “The Pandorica Opens” and “The Big Bang”. This series is just a wonderful introduction to the companion and really dives the story right from the beginning.

Series 6 includes all 13 episodes and returns the adventures with Matt Smith as the Doctor and Karen Gillan as Amy Pond. Also joining them is Arthur Darvill as Rory Williams and Alex Kingston as River Song. This season started with the death of the Doctor, which ran through the whole series. Definitely an exciting arc for the show. Episodes included are: “A Christmas Carol”, “The Impossible Astronaut”, “Day Of The Moon”, “The Curse Of The Black Spot”, “The Doctor’s Wife”, “The Rebel Flesh”, “The Almost People”, “A Good Man Goes To War”, “Let’s Kill Hitler”, “Night Terrors”, “The Girl Who Waited”, “The God Complex”, “Closing Time”, “The Wedding Of River Song”. These episodes reveal quite a lot of the series. Matt Smith is quickly becoming my favorite Doctor. Amy Pond is also my favorite companion to date.

Series 1 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, numerous making-of featurettes, video diary with Piper and an interview with Eccleston. Series 2 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, video diaries with Tennant, Doctor Who Confidential and Picture-in-picture commentary on The Girl in the Fireplace, The Age of Steel, The Impossible Planet, and Doomsday. Series 3 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, Doctor Who Confidential, Music and Monsters, Freema’s tour of the studio, David Tennant’s Video Diaries, Deleted scenes and Outtakes. Series 4 special features include commentary by cast and crew on all episodes, Doctor Who Confidential; video diaries with Tennant; Deleted scenes; Teasers and trailers; Retrospective featurette and Children in Need “Time Crash”. Series 5 special features include audio commentaries from cast/crew; newly filmed scenes written by Steven Moffat, called “Meanwhile in the Tardis”; Doctor Who Confidential; Monster Files; Outtakes; video diaries and Teasers and trailers. Series 6 special features include audio commentaries from cast/crew; five Night and the Doctor specially recorded scenes and episode prequels; two sketches recorded for the UK’s Comic Relief charity event; Monster Files; Doctor Who Confidential and BBC1 Trails.

I highly recommend this limited edition gift set if you are just being introduced to this show or if you have never purchased any of the previously released DVDs. If you are looking for something to hold you over until “Doctor Who” returns next year with the second part of series seven, which features a new companion joining the 11th Doctor. Until then…enjoy revisiting this fun and exciting series.

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DVD Review “Minds in the Water”

Starring: Dave Rastovich, Isabel Lucas
Directed by: Justin Krumb
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Studio: Saltwater Collective
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Running Time: 86 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Prior to finding this film, I was well aware of pro surfer Dave Rastovich and his career.  He is not just your typical surfer though he is also a an activist and embarked on a mission to protect dolphins, whales and the oceans that they all share and also to inspire change. This film is nothing short of inspiring.  It is not force fed to “save the oceans etc”. It really shows the love that Dave has for the water and it’s inhabitants. This five-year journey spans all of the world from Australia to the Galapagos to Tonga to California to Alaska and Japan. Like I said it really feels like an adventure and hopefully this will get people to realize what is happening and make a stand.  Even though, I have know about Dave prior to this film, I have have a new respect for him and his passion is infectious.

Official Premise: “Minds in the Water” documents the journey of traveling professional surfer Dave Rastovich, From an ocean minded admirer to an ocean activist. Through the charismatic journey of Dave’s life witness an adventure spanning the globe from Australia and the Galapagos to Tonga, Alaska and Japan. See first hand how one surfer’s quest to protect dolphins and whales has blossomed into a movement of like minds. Minds In The Water message: if ocean minded people are to pass on a sustainable culture, then they must become responsible stewards of their coastal environment.

This award winning documentary not only tells the story of Pro soul surfer Dave Rastovich but also has appearances from Hayden Panettiere, Isabel Lucas, Howie Cooke, Chris Del Moro, and Captain Paul Watson.  There is also some great tunes included from by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jack Johnson, and Xavier Rudd. Definitely a very chill soundtrack to relax to.  I see this film being revisited very often just to experience the vibe and it’s message.  The film is executive producer and directed by Justin Krumb, who is an Emmy Award winning filmmaker and the founder and president of The Saltwater Collective and RoughCuts Productions.  He is the perfect fit for this film and does a wonderful job leading and directing this doc. Highly recommend for not just surfers but everyone who cares about these very important issues.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://www.mindsinthewater.com/
OFFICIAL TRAILER ON YOUTUBE:

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Blu-ray Review “Ninja Scroll”

Director: Yoshiaki Kawajiri
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Section 23
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Run Time: 94 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“Ninja Scroll” is easily one of the most influential anime EVER…that’s right ever. It ranks up there with “Ghost in the Shell”, “Fist of the North Star” and “Akira”, as the best things to ever come out of Japan…in terms of anime that is. It was also one of the film that is responsible for introducing and hooking in the US into the format. The film is 20 years old next year but is still completely bad-ass and is able to hold its own in the genre. It is still very graphic as well and packs a nice warning stating “Contains intense scenes of graphic violence” and trust me that warning should not be taken likely. This release is long awaited and thanks to Sentai Filmworks it is presented in HD for the first time.

Official Premise: Swords shatter, blood sprays and demons suck the life out of dying men as the wildest samurai adventure ever made is unleashed to tear your senses asunder! Jubei Kibagami has always been the master dealer of death, but in rescuing a ninja woman from a monster he sets loose a chain of events that puts death in his own veins and sends them on a nightmarish odyssey through a surreal and devil infested ancient Japan. How do demonic possessions, an annihilated village and a man Jubei thought safely buried in his past all connect? If Jubei can’t piece the blood-soaked clues together, his only consolation will be that he won’t live to regret it for very long! Prepare your mind and steel your gut for the insanely gore-packed orgy of violence that still stands alone and unchallenged as the ultimate anime action feature: the epic milestone in animation that is the legendary NINJA SCROLL.

The Blu-ray presentation is glorious. The 1080p transfer is extremely impressive for an animated film almost 20 years aged. The colors are still sharp, especially the red…get it? The audio tracks are also very impressive with a English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. But I am still a fan of the origonal Japanese audio which is delivered in a stunning DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. The only thing disapoointing about this release are the special features. The only extras are an exclusive Japanese commentary track from the director Yoshiaki Kawajiri and a trailer and TV spot. Fans of the film though are going to be satisfying enough it this amazing transfer to Blu-ray that it should be enough to warrant the purchase alone.

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Blu-ray Review “Grave of the Fireflies”

Actors: Ayano Shiraishi, Tsutomu Tatsumi, Akemi Yamaguchi, Yoshiko Shinohara, J. Robert Spencer
Directors: Isao Takahata
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Section 23
Release Date: November 20, 2012
Run Time: 89 minutes

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

“Grave of the Fireflies” is based on the semi-autobiographical novel by Akiyuki Nosaka. Sentai Filmworks is the company behind this fantastic release.  They  know their anime and you know that a film/series is in good hands when they are handling it. This has been labeled is one of the top twelve anime of all time by Empire. It has always been a favorite of mine.  It is sweet, yet harsh and powerful.  It tells such a strong story and the animation is just amazing.  For this Blu-ray release, there is also a new English dub track included, but I am still partial to the original Japanese track. Nonetheless, if you are a fan of this film, I highly recommend this release.

Official Premise: As the Empire of the Sun crumbles upon itself and a rain of firebombs falls upon Japan, the final death march of a nation is echoed in millions of smaller tragedies. This is the story of Seita and his younger sister Setsuko, two children born at the wrong time, in the wrong place, and now cast adrift in a world that lacks not the care to shelter them, but simply the resources. Forced to fend for themselves in the aftermath of fires that swept entire cities from the face of the earth, their doomed struggle is both a tribute to the human spirit and the stuff of nightmares. Beautiful, yet at times brutal and horrifying.

This Blu-ray release has a superb 1080p transfer.  The animation really pops out and the colors look stunning.  The film is not extremely bright though due to its circumstances but it still has that “Wow factor”.  Whether you are a fan of the Japanese of English audio, they both have very sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks.  Also included is the original English 2.0 track if you were a fan of that one from the DVD. Besides a stunning Blu-ray presentation, there is not a lot going on in the special features front though.  There is some cool storyboards for the film, as well as deleted scenes in storyboard format. Lastly, there is the Japanese theatrical trailer included.

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Blu-ray Review “Dark Star: Thermostellar Edition”

Starring: Brian Narelle, Cal Kuniholm, Dre Pahich, Dan O’Bannon
Director: John Carpenter
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: VCI Entertainment
Release Date: November 6, 2012
Run Time: 83 minutes

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

I remember the first time that I saw “Dark Star” was in the early 90’s when the box called out to me at the local mom and pop video store.  Since then I have always been a fan of this campy sci-fi that was before its time.  In fact it was released two years prior to “Star Wars” but never really found a large audience, must like all of Carpenter’s films outside of “Halloween”.  I still enjoy watching this film and after all these years, I still get some good laughs out of “Dark Star”.  VCI Entertainment is behind this “Thermostellar Edition” and for price the it is set at, it is a no-brainer for fans of sci-fi and Carpenter’s work.

Official Premise: In the mid twenty-first century, mankind has reached a point in its technological advances to enable colonization of the far reaches of the universe. DARK STAR is a futuristic scout ship traveling far in advance of colony ships. Armed with Exponential Thermosteller Bombs, it prowls the darkest reaches of space on a mission to seek out and destroy unstable planets ahead of the colonist. But there is one obstacle that its crew members did not count on — one of the ship’s thinking and talking bombs is lodged in the bay, threatening to destroy the entire ship and crew!

In this “Thermostellar Edition”, it is a real step up from the VHS copy that I used to watch but the 1080p transfer presented in 1.85:1 is far from perfect. But that is set flat out at the start of the film with Dan O’Bannon’s text prologue, in which he almost apologizes for the transfer state.  So overall it not perfect but still a far cry from terrible.  With the audio on this release their are two tracks, the first is an uncompressed LPCM 2.0 track and also a supped up LPCM 5.1 surround track. I actually enjoyed the 5.1 track quite a bit, especially with Carpenter’s score.

The special features are out of this world…get it? (sorry).  To start there is an audio Commentary by “Super Fan” Andrew Gilchrist, which is decent but not amazing. The star of this release though is the nearly two hour retrospective called “Let There Be Light: The Odyssey of “Dark Star””.  It includes some really great interviews with the cast but Carpenter declined to be a part of the documentary and is only available via archive audio.  Still it is a nice companion to the film. There is an interview with Sci-Fi Author Alan Dean Foster, who did the novelization. There is another interview with Brian Narelle who played Doolittle in the film.  There is a “3D Guide to the Dark Star Ship” which allows viewing of various locations on the ship. Lastly, there is trivia on the film.

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