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DVD Review “Face of Fu Manchu”

Director: Don Sharp
Cast: Christopher Lee, Nigel Green, Joachim Fuchsberger, Karen Dor, James Robertson Justice, Howard Marion Crawford, Tsai Chin
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 96 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of Christopher Lee and his role of Fu Manchu is one of the classics. Of course it doesn’t compare to Dracula but he is one bad-ass villain. I remember seeing this film as a kid and not knowing what the hell is going on…well not much has changed to be honest. This does make me want to check out Sax Rohmer’s novels though for sure. The film is still a little weird and confusing but I have learned to appreciated it more for what it is. If you are a fan of this series, than this is a must-have.

Warner Archive is yet again behind this release, which is the first time this film has been put out on DVD. This title has not been remastered or restored but has been made from the best-quality video master currently available. It looks good but has some spots with issues, It is shows in it original aspect ratio 2.40:1 and presented in 16X9 full frame. The audio track included is the typical Dolby Mono track. If you want more, “Vengeance Of Fu Manchu”, also starring Christopher Lee, was released on September 25th. Warner Archive needs to keep these film coming.

Synopsis: The world can breathe easier. Fu Manchu, the crimelord who knows the hidden powers of the mind, is dead. No less than Scotland Yard’s Nayland Smith witnessed the execution. But beware. Don’t expect Fu Manchu to die so conveniently when there’s still so much evil to perpetrate. Christopher Lee plays the malevolent anti hero of the popular Sax Rohmer novels for the first time in The Face of Fu Manchu. World domination is the ingenious fiend’s goal, one increasingly within his long-nailed grasp now that he’s discovered a secret potion so toxic that one drop can kill thousands. Pay heed, you Nayland Smiths of the world: The forces of evil are very much alive! Are you so foolish as to believe you can oppose the will of Fu Manchu?

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DVD Review “Confessions of an Opium Eater”

Director: Albert Zugsmith
Cast: Vincent Price, Linda Ho, Philip Ahn
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 85 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

When it comes to Vincent Price, I am always interested in his film. I have never heard of “Confessions of an Opium Eater” and I am not shocked why. This film is very – let’s say – out there. This film takes a little while to get started but definitely packs a bunch. It is not one of his best but it is still Vincent Price, so sign me up. A neat fact is that is was directed by the producer of the classic “Touch of Evil”.

Warner Archive is yet again behind this release, which is the first time this film has been put out on DVD. This title has not been remastered or restored but has been made from the best-quality video master currently available. It looks decent overall. It is presented within its original aspect ratio of 16X9 full frame. The audio track included is the typical Dolby Mono track. Overall I probably do not see myself watching this film again but with Halloween right around the corner, it will definitely get you ready.

Synopsis: Vincent Price faces the death of 1,000 cuts in this delirious pulp adventure directed by Touch of Evil producer Albert Zugsmith. Returning to San Francisco after a long stay in the Orient, two-fisted mercenary Gilbert De Quincey (Price) finds himself caught in the midst of a Tong war. Descending deep below the surface of Chinatown, he plays one side against the other in a daring attempt to break up a human trafficking ring, where slave girls are auctioned for opium.

Blu-ray Review “Cinderella: Diamond Edition”

Starring: Ilene Woods, Eleanor Audley, James MacDonald, Verna Felton, Rhoda Williams
Directors: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Run Time: 75 minutes

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

“Cinderella” is the next in line to receive Blu-ray treatment for the time from Disney. This fairy tale princess is one of the most recognizable and even has her own real-life castle located her in Orlando FL 😉 “Cinderella” looks glorious on Blu-ray with this simply magical restoration and video transfer. There are also two spectacular audio track include. The first is a remix track of DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 and of course there is also the original audio, DTS-HD Master Audio Mono. This is a must for all Disney fans but if you are then you probably aren’t reading this. The ultimate fan would definitely want to check out the Limited Edition Collectible Jewelry Box of this release, which includes all three “Cinderella Films”: “Cinderella, “Cinderella II: Dreams Comes True” and “Cinderella III: A Twist in Time”. Keep ’em coming Disney, still have plenty more classics to upgrade to Blu-ray.

The special features are just as magical as the film itself. There is a brief introduction to the film from Diane Disney Miller. I will start on the HD special features first. “Cinderella Alternate Opening Sequence” is a short but still worthwhile extra, which is showcased in the film’s original storyboards. “Backstage Disney: Diamond Edition” include three newly produced featurettes together running about 30 minutes. The first is my favorite on the release called “The Real Fairy Godmother”, really an amazing piece of work (got me teary). The next is called “Behind the Magic: A New Disney Princess Fantasyland””, which takes a look into Walt Disney World’s renovation and expansion of Fantasyland. Lastly, “The Magic of a Glass Slipper: A Cinderella Story” is a French short film about famed shoe designer Christian Louboutin. To top off the HD extras is the equally amazing and retro “Cinderella” companion, “Tangled Ever After” short film. This was originally released in 3D with “Beauty and the Beast” in theaters.

The rest of the special features, which are still great are taken from the 2005 Special Edition DVD, and are in standard definition. “From Rags to Riches: The Making of Cinderella” is an extensive documentary and still amazing. “The Cinderella that Almost Was” shows other concept designs for our princess. “From Walt’s Table: A Tribute to the Nine Old Men” is a nice tribute to the legendary Disney animators from the old days. “The Art of Mary Blair” focuses on the female artist, who was very important to the film. “Storyboard-to-Film Comparison” focuses on movie’s opening sequence. There is an animated “Laugh-O-Gram” of the Cinderella story from 1922. There is also a 1956 excerpt from “The Mickey Mouse Club”. There are three deleted scenes displayed with original art and storyboards and six theatrical and reissue trailers.

The last feature consists of audio only content. There are archive audio recordings of the “Cinderella Title Song,” seven “Unused Songs,” a 1948 “Village Store” excerpt, a 1950 “Gulf Oil Presents” excerpt, and a 1950 new program called “Scouting the Stars”. If you are have a compatible mobile device or table you can enjoy the “Personalized Digital Storybook: Bibbidi-Bobbidi-You”, which is an interactive Disney Second Screen storybook. Also like other classic animation films on Blu-ray, you can fill the black bars on sides of your TV with artwork by Disney background painter Cristy Maltese using “DisneyView”. This Diamond Edition release does not disappoint in any scene whatsoever. I should also mention that this Blu-ray release also comes with a DVD of the film and a discount for a online streaming copy, so you can watch this film wherever you go.

Premise: Everyone orders Cinderella around: her cruel stepmother, her awful stepsisters — even the big clock in the church tower tells her when to start another day of drudgery. But they can’t stop her from dreaming, and Cinderella has faith that someday her wishes will come true. When an invitation to the royal ball arrives, Cinderella is sure her time has come — until her stepsisters, with the encouragement of Lady Tremaine, tear her gown to shreds. Just when Cinderella believes all is lost, her Fairy Godmother appears, and with a wave of her wand and “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” transforms an ordinary pumpkin into a magnificent coach and Cinderella’s rags into a gorgeous gown, then sends her off to the Royal Ball. But Cinderella’s enchanted evening must end when the spell is broken at midnight. It will take the help of her daring animal mice friends and a perfect fit into a glass slipper to create the ultimate fairy tale ending.

Book Review “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial from Concept to Classic: 30th Anniversary Edition”

Author(s): Steven Spielberg, Melissa Mathison
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Newmarket Press
30th Anniversary Edition
Release Date: October 9, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

This 30th Anniversary Edition included the illustrated story of the film and the filmmakers. As I turn 30 myself this year, it is crazy to believe that this film that I grew up on is doing the same. “E.T.” is one of Steven Spielberg’s most personal stories to date. This film was also the reason why John Carpenter’s “The Thing” flopped the same year since everyone wants to see aliens in a good light not evil. This new addition is the only official book on the making of the film and includes an all new introduction from Steven Speilberg.

This book is also illustrated with more than 200 photos and drawings, which look amazing. I really would have loved this book to have been hardcover. It the illustrations aren’t eough this book includes the complete annotated screenplay by Melissa Mathison. But that is not all either, there are reflections from many of the cast and crew, including designer Carlo Rambaldi and producer Kathleen Kennedy. Kennedy chats about the impact of the movie on today’s audience. There is also a bunch of amazing little known facts and trivia revealed in this book about the film’s production.

I never knew that “E.T.” was a plant…that’s right kiddies, not male or female…a plant. It is also told that “E.T.” had only 49 lines of speaking. This film is 30 years old and still very relevant today and still holds up. Since this book is timed to match with the Blu-ray release, the October is going to be the month of “E.T.” and having everyone “phone home” and revisit this classic film. And what better want to accompany the amazing movie, than with this amazing book. This is a no-brainer for Spielberg fans…unless you have the 20th Anniversary release, since there is not much new in this edition.

DVD Review “Care Bears: The Original Series Collection”

Created by: Linda Denham, Elena Kucharik
Starring: Billie Mae Richards, Jim Henshaw, Dan Hennessey, Chris Wiggins, Melleny Brown, Luba Goy, Eva Almos, John Stocker, Tara Strong
Number of discs: 6
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: October 9, 2012
Run Time: 923 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

It is hard to believe that The Care Bears are approaching 30 years already. I remember watching them on television every day when I was a kid. Now with a child of my own, I am looking forward to her growing up watching this series as well. The message that this show represented was sharing and caring and those are two great qualities to have. Let’s just say that some television shows today for kids aren’t that classy. Thanks to Lionsgate for releasing this limited edition 30-year anniversary collectors’ set. This 6-DVD set features 64 classic episodes and a full-length movie, “Care Bears: The Nutcracker”.

Synopsis: Originally created by American Greetings, the lovable bears of Care-a-lot – Cheer Bear, Share Bear, Harmony Bear and all their buddies – with unique belly badges and a caring mission – have been delighting fans for 30 years! Whether it’s learning the value of friendship, helping someone in need or using their special powers to brighten up the day, the adorable Care Bears are always ready for caring, sharing and giving goodness!

All of your favorite Bears are included in this collection including Cheer Bear, Share Bear, Tenderheart Bear and all of the Care Bear Cousins. Though 30 years old, the Care Bears are not going anywhere soon. They have resurfaced in the last 10 years and have been more popular than ever appearing in various new series and films including this year’s “Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot”. The original 80’s episodes are still very colorful and eye-catching though and still fun to watch. The DVD has the episodes presented in 4×3 Full Screen (1.33:1) and with an audio track of 2.0 Dolby Digital. A must for all kids that grew up in the 80’s and are still young at heart…or have kids now.

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Film Review “Frankenweenie”

Starring the voices of: Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short and Charlie Tahan
Directed by: Tim Burton
Rated: PG
Running time: 1 hr 27 mins
Walt Disney Pictures

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

In 1984 a young filmmaker working at the Walt Disney Company made a short film that featured a young boy recreating the “Frankenstein” story by resurrecting his recently deceased dog from the dead. Horrified at the completed film, Disney fired the filmmaker, declaring the film too scary for its young audiences. The film was called “Frankenweenie” and the filmmaker was a 26 year old named Tim Burton. Almost three decades later, and the past being in the past, Disney gave Burton a boatload of money to create a feature length version of the film, with all of the style and quirks that make it a Tim Burton film. And the studio certainly got their money’s worth!

Victor Frankenstein (Tahan) is a quiet kid who makes his own home movies and enjoys science. But the thing that makes him happiest is his dog, Sparky. The two are inseparable. As Victor prepares for the upcoming science fair his father (Short) convinces him to give baseball a try. Against all odds Victor knocks the ball into the street where, sadly, Sparky tries to retrieve it. Sparky is struck by a car and killed. After the funeral Victor lies in bed missing his friend. “I’m sorry about Sparky,” his mother (O’Hara) tells him. “If we could bring him back we would.” Victor quickly begins to think. Then, to quote Gru in “Despicable Me” – “LIGHT BULB!”

Presented in black and white and accented by a great Danny Elfman score, “Frankenweenie” is a heart-tugging classic featuring Burton at the top of his game. The inclusion of some fine 3D imagery makes it THE film to see during the Halloween season. The animation is classic Burton – none of his characters look alike. There are tall people, short people – fat and skinny people. There are also pets that take on the characteristics of their humans. The story is familiar to anyone that knows the history of the Frankenstein family and the vocal cast brings it to life brilliantly. Besides the three leads, stellar work is turned in by Atticus Shaffer, Frank Welker and old Burton company members Martin Landau and Winona Ryder.

I should mention that the film may get a little scary for younger viewers due to the subject matter so parents be prepared to explain some things to your little ones.

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Film Review “Taken 2”

Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace and Famke Janssen
Directed by: Olivier Megaton
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hr 31 mins
20th Century Fox

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

What do you do after you’ve rescued your daughter from sex traffickers in Paris, killing pretty much everyone in your sight to do it? If you’re Brian Mills (Neeson), you give that same daughter driving lessons and worry about her new boyfriend. You also head to Istanbul for a few days work. But when the friends and family of the people you killed decide to exact a little revenge it might be hard to find a place to hide…even in Turkey!

Liam is back! And he’s bringing the family with him. Somehow inexplicably, four years ago Liam Neeson became an action hero. And he’s a great one because not only can he kick ass he can really act! Now back together in “Taken,” Neeson and his family find themselves wanted by the last Albanians still hanging out in the fertile crescent. And believe me, they’re pissed!

What was so enjoyable about the original “Taken” was that it was nothing but action, with only the slightest bit of dialogue to alert the audience about what was going to happen next. Here the plot drags immediately from the beginning because not only is Brian the subject of the Albanian gang’s rage, he’s also managed to conveniently take his daughter (Grace) and his ex-wife (Janssen – she and the new husband are now separated) across the world with him, making them as intriguing a victim as Brian himself. Besides this slight twist, the film plays out almost exactly as the first. Someone gets grabbed, Brian gets a phone call, Brian threatens caller. Seriously. The plot is so similar they should have called this one “Took,” because you’ve seen it all before. First the daughter needs driving lessons. Next time you see her, she’s Gene Hackman in “The French Connection,” maneuvering through the cobblestone streets like a pro. And why is it always the Albanians that cause trouble? In this film, Brian seems to have pissed off every Albanian on the planet except for Jim Belushi!

DVD Review “New Girl: The Complete First Season”

Actors: Zooey Deschanel, Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, Lamorne Morris, Hannah Number of discs: 3
Rated: Unrated
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Run Time: 526 minutes

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

I have always been a big fan of Zooey Deschanel since she was in 2004’s “Elf”. This show is so cute, smartly written, smart and quirky. It is also rare that you watch a show where you literally love every single character in the series. Dermot Mulroney is a laugh riot, as he guest stars as Jess’ older boyfriend and reminds us to be sure to hang that sweater…not fold it. Classic. This first season had entire scenes that I literally missed the jokes due to almost crying in pain laughing, thank God for being able to rewind (numerous times). I also think that this show is extremely re-watchable like another one of my favorite comedy series, “The Big Bang Theory”. One of my favorite new shows of 2011 and I can’t wait for season two.

Official Premise: “New Girl” is a charming, offbeat comedy about friends, flings and modern relationships. After a bad breakup, free-spirited optimist Jess (Zooey Deschanel) moves in with three bachelors who have plenty of issues of their own. Winston (Lamorne Morris) is a former athlete, Nick (Jake Johnson) is a law school dropout, and Schmidt (Max Greenfield) is a wannabe womanizer in love with…himself. Together with her super-hot BFF Cece (Hannah Simone), this New Girl discovers that hanging out with the guys can be a challenging – and hilarious – adventure!

The special features are very impressive for this season. There is a commentary track on the pilot, “Bad in Bed” and “See Ya” episodes, all highly recommended.. If you love Zooey’s fashion in the show, be sure to watch “Dress Like Jess”. There are auditions with Lamorne Morris, very glad he replaced Damon Waynes Jr from the pilot. There are also a bunch of deleted/extended scenes, alternate jokes and an outtake reel. I will take any more of this show that I can get, so I was all in for these extras. “New Girl: Evolution of an Episode” is a nice look into the show’s production. Overall highly recommended for fans of this show.

Blu-ray Review “Excision”

Actors: AnnaLynne McCord, Traci Lords, Roger Bart, Malcom McDowell, Ariel Winter
Directors: Richard Bates, Jr.
Rated: Unrated
Studio: ANCHOR BAY
Release Date: October 16, 2012
Run Time: 81 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2 out of 5 stars

“Excision” is one of those films that doesn’t leave you after watching it. This film isn’t a horror film per se just a very disturbing thriller filled with some really great blood and gore. For a genre film, this also packs some really great performances. AnnaLynne McCord went through such a transformation in this film and she really committed to the role. Traci Lords was so mean, she ended up being likable (if that makes sense). The film is short and doesn’t waste anytime getting started. If you looking for one hell of a disturbing 80 minutes, look no further.

Official synopsis: A disturbed and delusional high school student, Pauline (AnnaLynne McCord) goes to extremes to earn the approval of her controlling mother (Traci Lords). While dealing with being an outcast teenager and obsession over curing her sister’s cystic fibrosis, Pauline becomes continually deranged as her fascination of the surgery and the human flesh grows into something abysmal and demonic.

Anchor Bay delivers the goods with this Blu-ray. This film looks beyond awesome in its 1080p transfer and its 2.39:1 original aspect ratio. The audio includes a hauntingly perfect Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track. Though the special features are not as exciting. There is an audio commentary track with director Richard Bates, Jr. and AnnaLynne McCord. The only other extras is a short behind-the-scenes featurette.

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Blu-ray Review “Holliston: The Complete First Season”

Actors: Adam Green, Joe Lynch, Dee Snider, Dave Brockie, Laura Ortiz
Directors: Adam Green
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: IMAGE ENTERTAINMENT
Release Date: October 9, 2012
Run Time: 223 minutes

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

“Holliston” is a FEARnet original series created by Adam Green (“Hatchet”, “Frozen”). It is a super bizarre mix of situation comedy with a touch of horror and heavy metal. Holliston is definitely not your typical TV comedy, this one breaks all the rules. It has a laugh track, which I thought was a riot. No offense to Adam Green and Joe Lynch, the acting is not grade A but I didn’t expect acting performances from these well-respected directors. This show doesn’t aim to be anything that is isn’t and succeed. If you watch this show when it aired on FEARnet, you will be happy to know that the original extended episodes are included. So sit back, grab your jar and peanut butter and get ready for some mindless laughs.

Official Synopsis: Adam (Adam Green, Hatchet) and Joe (Joe Lynch, Wrong Turn 2) are two down-on-their-luck aspiring horror movie filmmakers trying to break out of their small hometown of Holliston, Massachusetts, and into the Hollywood big leagues while struggling to make ends meet and learning to deal with the opposite sex. Joe’s adorably demented girlfriend Laura (Laura Ortiz, The Hills Have Eyes) joins Adam’s ex – and greatest heartbreak of his life – Corri (Corri English, Unrest) in rounding out the ensemble cast of this hilariously original and offbeat re-imagining of the traditional American sitcom that has both comedy and horror fans loving its hard hitting laughs, tremendous heart, and slapstick violence.

The episodes included are: The Hooker, Camera Rental, Skunked, Candyman, Laura’s Little Twitter, Weekend of Horrors. Besides Adam and Joe, this series also co-stars Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) playing the glam rock wanna-be Lance Rockett and Dave Brockie aka GWAR’s “Oderus Urungus. Horror fans will also rejoice at the numerous celebrity genre cameos including Bill Moseley, Seth Green, Tony Todd and Danielle Harris (just to name a few). If you enjoyed this show, get ready for season two on FEARnet scheduled for summer 2013.

The Blu-ray presentation is sharp and impressive. The 1080p transfer for the episodes look great and also sound great with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. “Holliston: The Complete First Season” packs as much of a punch in its special features as it does with its series. There are a bunch of great audio commentaries from the cast/crew, which are very entertaining. There are a few worth-wild deleted scenes, as well as hysterical outtakes. There is a behind-the-scenes feature at the production of the series, also highly recommended. Lastly there are very promos for “Road to Holliston” and and TV Special Sneak Peek.

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3D Blu-ray Review “Flying Swords of Dragon Gate 3D”

Actors: Jet Li, Kun Chen
Directors: Hark Tsui
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Indomina
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Run Time: 122 minutes

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

“Flying Swords of Dragon Gate 3D” is a re-imagining of 1992’s “New Dragon Gate Inn”. It is a real kick-ass action film, which gives Jet Li a chance to shine. After seeing “The Expendables 2”, his role was so trivial and I was dying for some real Jet Li action. If that isn’t cool enough this is directed by Tsui Hark. who has directed some of my favorite films like “Zu Warriors from the Magic Mountain” and the “Once Upon a Time in China” series, also starring Jet Li. The film was shot entirely in 3D and really looks amazing, thanks to Chuck Comisky, the visual-effects supervisor for James Cameron’s “Avatar”. Highly recommended for all fans of Li or action in general.

Official Synopsis: Three years after the disappearance of the enigmatic innkeeper Jade and the massive fire that consumed the Inn, a new Dragon Inn has risen from the ashes, staffed by a band of marauders. Masquerading as law-abiding citizens by day, they use the cover of night to continue their true calling as fortune hunters. For legend says that the Dragon Inn is the site of a lost city buried in the desert – and a treasure that spans dynasties hidden deep within. As they await a storm strong enough to unearth the hidden fortress, they are surprised by the arrival of a pregnant concubine and her mysterious protector, Ling. They have come seeking the sanctuary of the Inn – as two factions from the Imperial City close in on them to claim her unborn child. Leading the Imperial Assassins is the merciless Eunuch, Yu who hopes to reclaim the Emperor’s child before she can fall into the hands of the righteous General Zhao.

The 1080p transfer is extremely impressive within its 2.39:1 aspect ratio. Besides the 3D action, which is amazing, Cinematographer Choi Sung-fai delivers some beautiful colored landscapes, which real pop. This also goes the same for the 2D version of the film, I just prefer and recommend watching it in 3D. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is perfect but only its original Mandarin language. The English track is unbearable to listen to and turns the film into a comedy with the voice overs. The only problem is that I am not a big fan of reading subtitles in 3D but it is really the only way to watch it.

The special features are found on the standard 2D Blu-ray disc and are good but they are also only in SD. Firstly, there is a two part “Making of Flying Swords of Dragon Gate”, which both together runs about 15 minutes. There is a look into some of the film’s production but looks like it was shot on a cell phone. There is about 20 minutes of interviews with the film’s cast and filmmakers. There is another 30 minutes feature looking behind-the-scenes, which includes some good detail but has some sound issues. Lastly there is a trailer included for the film.

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Blu-ray Review “Iron Sky”

Starring: Julia Dietze, Peta Sergeant, Götz Otto, Udo Kier, Christopher Kirby, Kym Jackson
Director: Timo Vuorensola
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Entertainment One
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Run Time: 93 minutes

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

“Iron Sky” had me locked in from the minute I read its premise. I mean, Nazi’s on the dark side of the moon, how can you go wrong? Well this film doesn’t really deliver much in the laughs department…but it definitely makes it up in the visual effects department. There is some really top-notch CG work here, it reminded me a bit of this year’s “Lockout” as well. The film has Udo Kier playing the Führer but does not use him to his potential and let’s just say he doesn’t stick around that long. Nonetheless, I honestly think that this film is worth checking out JUST for the visual effects. The word is that there is going to be a prequel and sequel for this as well, so this story isn’t done yet.

Official Premise: In the last moments of World War II, a secret Nazi space program evaded destruction by fleeing to the Dark Side of the Moon. In the intervening 70 years, the Nazis constructed a gigantic space fortress with a massive armada of flying saucers. Their plan: travel back to Earth and re-colonize the planet. Now, mankind’s greatest enemy is no longer history as the Reich strikes back in this eagerly-anticipated worldwide box office phenomenon which has enjoyed a U.S. theatrical release – demanded in over 70 markets. When American astronaut James Washington (Christopher Kirby) puts down his Lunar Lander a bit too close to the secret Nazi base, the Moon Führer (Udo Kier) decides the Fourth Reich must act, so two Nazi officers, ruthless Klaus Adler (Götz Otto) and idealistic Renate Richter (Julia Dietze), travel to Earth to prepare the invasion. In the end, when the Moon Nazi UFO armada darkens the skies, ready to strike at the unprepared Earth, every man, woman and nation alike, must unite to save humanity!

“Iron Sky” looks awesome on Blu-ray. It’s 1080p transfer looks amazing in its 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Since the film is jam-packed with action, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track really delivers. The special features are not as impressive though, but still decent. There is an audio commentary track with Producer Samuli Torssonen and Director Timo Vuorensola. There is a lot of focus on the visual aesthetics. “Making of Featurette” focuses on the production and runs just over 15 minutes. There is another look Behind the Scenes which focuses on various featurettes focusing on the film. Lastly there is a theatrical trailer and teasers included.

Product Review “theKube2” MP3 Player

Bluetree Electronics
Supports microSD card up to 32 GB (a 4GB microSD card is included)
Includes a card reader for file transferring
Built-in rechargeable Li-Polymer battery
Play-time up to 6 hours

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

When I heard that Bluetree Electronics was releasing the World’s Smallest Touch MP3 Player, I couldn’t help it but be interested. Let me introduce the theKube2. It isn’t called theKube for no reason since it literally measures at just one cubed inch. The touch screen is used for audio navigation and control and is rather user-friendly. The sound on this little device is very impressive. When it comes to battery life, that is key when it comes to handheld devices. TheKube2 packs six hours of playback in one single hour USB charge. This device is also expandable with storage. It comes with 4GB microSD and supports microSD card up to 32GB. Since theKube2 is bland it also is customizable with its design and has full body, changeable skins.

Now that we delivered all the neat features, I still have a problem with theKube2. I thought it would have been a neat gadget to just pop in and go but I still stick with my iPhone (or any other Smartphone for that matter) over this device. I was thinking this would work great with the gym or running but there are already great armbands made for all smart devices. With all the devices out there now, I feel that this would most likely work best for kids that don’t cellphones yet and need a MP3 player. Obviously they would want a iPad or iTouch but given the cost this is an good alternative…if you are just looking for an MP3 player.

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Filed Under: Technology Tagged With: mp3, player, product, review, thekube2

DVD Review “Mancation”

Actors: Mike Starr, Joey Fatone, Matt Kawczynski, Jake Matthews
Directed by: Frank Vain
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Lions Gate
Release Date: October 9, 2012
Run Time: 100 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Every since “The Hangover” scored with fans, ever comedy has tried to compare. “Mancation” is no different. The only good thing about this film though is *NSYNC’s Joey Fatone and Danica McKellar from “The Wonder Years”. The film starts off well with using its unrated director’s cut well and then, in so many words, pussies out. It become a tale to find true love and overall gets lame very fast. But the time this film kicks it into gear again, it just seems way too late and way too disgusting.

Official Synopsis: Vince has carefully planned out every aspect of his seemingly successful life until his plans come crashing down around him just one day after his wedding, leaving his three under-qualified friends to pick up the pieces. As they head to Atlantic City for the wildest and most spontaneous weekend of their lives they’ll be sure that this “Mancation” will be one that will never be forgotten!

The DVD includes the film in an unrated director’s cut. The special features included in this release are decent but overall too short. There is a behind-the-scenes featurette called “Jake Cam! with Jake Matthews”. There is a funny commercial for Bonerall. There are some outtakes and about 10 minutes of deleted/extended scenes. “Booch to Boots” is a short feature on one of the characters in the film. Lastly there is a trailer gallery.

DVD Review “Basket Case 3: The Progeny”

Actors: Kevin Van Hentenryck, Denise Coop, Annie Ross, Gil Roper
Directors: Frank Henenlotter
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Synapse Films
Release Date: October 9, 2012
Run Time: 90 minutes

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

When it comes to the “Basket Case” series, it has always been a great mix of comedy and horror. “The Progeny” has always been one of my favorites. The film is completely over-the-top and doesn’t care what anyone thinks. The practical makeup effects alone in the film are stunning. I would have love to see this film put out and restored on Blu-ray. Synapse Films delivers this DVD with its widescreen presentation with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The audio included is a Dolby Digital 2.0 track. The one downside is that this DVD doesn’t include any special features besides the original theatrical trailer.

Official Synopsis: He’s back. He’s bad. And he’s a dad! Belial, everyone’s favorite beast-in-a-basket, is back in this sensational third film in the wildly macabre horror series. After being separated again from his conjoined twin brother Duane (Kevin Van Hentenryck), Belial finds out he’s going to be a deformed daddy! Mrs. Belial ( Eve, played by Denise Coop) delivers a litter of bouncing baby monsters, but the blessed event turns into a nightmarish ordeal when the police kidnap the little critters. They should know it’s not safe to anger Belial! Attacking the cops in a climactic, gory rampage, everyone’s favorite mutant mauler stops at nothing to get his newborns back!

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3, basket, case, dvd, progeny, review, ...

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