Book Review “The Jaws Log: Expanded Edition”

Author: Carl Gottlieb
223 pages
Newmarket Press
Release date: Originally released in 1975 / Expanded Edition – Aug 7, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

One of the most influential books ever written about the daily ins and outs of making a movie, Carl Gottlieb’s “The Jaws Log” is a behind the screen account of the creation of one of the most popular, both critically and at the box office, films of all time: Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece, “Jaws.”

A friend of Spielberg, Gottlieb was hired by the director to work on the script of the film during filming. As Gottlieb was also an actor, with appearances in such films as “M*A*S*H” and the Barbra Streisand comedy “Up the Sandbox,” he was also assigned the role of Amity’s newspaper editor Harry Meadows, a role that was quite sizeable in Peter Benchley’s source novel. The book begins with the conception of the film and ends with the successful sneak previews that “Jaws” enjoyed prior to opening on June 20, 1975. As Gottlieb says in his introduction, “This is how I saw it.”

Having sold over 2 million copies since it was first published (and by the stack of copies on my bookshelf I can honestly say I’m a proud part of those 2 million), “The Jaws Log” has influenced whole generations of filmmakers since its release. Among the directors that have sung it’s praises: Rob Reiner, John Landis, Rod Lurie and Bryan Singer. As someone that was on the set daily, Gottlieb is well equipped to recount and share the inside tales that have captivated fans for almost four decades.

As this is “the Expanded Edition,” originally published shortly after the 25th Anniversary of “Jaws” was celebrated in 2000, the book contains an introduction by Peter Benchley and an additional 25 page “Afterward” by Gottlieb updating many of the stories in the book. If you’ve never read “The Jaws Log” before, you are missing one of the best documents EVER published on the creation of a film. If you’ve only read the 1975 original, prepare to take a trip down memory lane while collecting a whole new array of memories to treasure forever.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: book, edition, expanded, jaws, log, review, ...

3D Blu-ray Review “Titanic: Limited 3D Edition”

Directed by: James Cameron
Starring: Leonardo Dicaprio, Kate Winslet
Number of discs: 4
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Paramount Home Entertainment
Release Date: September 10, 2012
Running Time: 194 minutes

Titanic 3D: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 5 out of 5 stars

When you hear the word 3D conversion, most avid film-goers will cringe. Though you can relax with this film since the 3D is nothing short of amazing and breathtaking. The film looks like it was even originally shot in 3D. The 1080p presentation is easily one of the best on the Blu-ray format. As is the film’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, definitely the highest of high definition audio presentations. I mean what else did you expect honestly from Mr. James Cameron. The film is the second highest grossing film to Cameron’s latest “Avatar” and deserves such an amazing presentation. Within this four-disc combo pack, the breakdown of the discs are as follows: Disc one is the Blu-ray 3D movie- part one, Disc two is the Blu-ray 3D movie- Part Two, disc three contains a standard Blu-ray (with the film in 2D) + three filmmaker commentaries and disc four includes the bulk of the special features with never before seen footage. Lastly there is also a Digital Copy included (wish it was Ultraviolet though).

To be honest knowing how much love that Cameron put into this 3D conversion that there are no 3D bonus content included on the 3D discs. Nonetheless this release is extremely jam-packed with special features. The first disc including the three audio commentary tracks, all from 2005. I guess everything was said well the first time so no need to revisit it for this release. I would have liked to seen Cameron do a track just on the 3D of the film. On disc three, we get three commentary tracks. The first is with James Cameron and he covers all aspects of the film from beginning to end. This is obviously a must-listen commentary track, no question. Next up. there is an audio commentary from Historians Don Lynch and Ken Marschal. This is a very technical and thorough commentary track but still a must for all people interested in the history of the Titanic.

Lastly, there is an packed audio commentary with a crazy amount of cast and crew, also from 2005. This is single biggest commentary track that I have ever seen, so I going to try and split it up. There are 15 members of the cast participated, including primary cast of Gloria Stuart, Kate Winslet, Frances Fisher, Bill Paxton, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates. Also included is Bernard Hill, Danny Nucci, Ioan Gruffudd, Lewis Abernathy, Jason Barry, Jeanette Goldstein, Jonathan Hyde, Suzy Amis and Victor Garber. On the production side there is Executive Producer Rae Sanchini, Producer John Landau, Second Unit Director Steve Quale, First Assistant Director Josh McLaglen, Camera Operator/Steadicam Jimmy Muro, Director of Photography Russell Carpenter, Costume Designer Deborah Scott, 4-Ward/VFX Supervisor Robert Skotak, Art Director Martin Laing, Production Designer Peter Lamont, Unit Production Manager Kevin De La Noy, Digital Domain-VFX Supervisor Rob Legato and Stunt Coordinator Simon Crane. Composer James Horner, Music Editor Joe Rand, Re-Recording Mixer Gary Rydstrom and Sound Designer/Re-Recording Mixer Christopher Boyes cover the sound of the film, as well as its music and score. Some miscellaneous crew including Deep Dive Technology Coordinator Ralph White, Core Extra Ellen Mower, Core Extra Judy Prestininzi and Etiquette Coach Lynne Hockney. Most had been recorded separately and later edited together, but they are well edited and works well.

Moving on to disc four, we get the bulk of the special features starting off with two fantastic documentaries.  The first is called “Reflections on Titanic”, runs just over an hour long.  It is a four-part look at the this epic film. Cast and crew speak on setting the sinking of the ship against a classic romance. The feature covers the film before it’s release, during its releases and evening leading into its 3D conversion and 3D premiere. Easily one of my favorite features.  Next up with have “Titanic: The Final Word with James Cameron”, which runs just over an hour and a half.  I had watched this prior on the Bio Channel, I believe.  I wasn’t a big fan of it but it still deserves to be checked out. It features James Cameron and eight other field  experts discussing what really happened to the RMS Titanic.

There are about an hour of deleted and extended scenes, all which include optional commentary from James Cameron.  These also are the last of the extras to be presented in HD.  The rest are all in 480p standard definition. There are 31 production behind-the-scenes short featurettes, each running about 1-3 minutes. Included are “Upside Down Wreck Miniature”, “1912 Morph Transition VFX”, “Digital People”, and “Iceberg/Deck VFX”, just to name a few of my favorites. Continuing with the production side of the extras, “Construction Timelapse” is a look into the making of the ship with optional Ed Marsh commentary. “Deep Dive Presentation” is a narrated tour with James Cameron through the wreckage of the Titanic. “$200,000,001: A Ship’s Odyssey” is a montage of behind-the-scenes footage from the crew, basically a long gag reel. There are three featurettes on the “Videomatics” including an intro, “Sinking Sequence” and “Deep Dive”.  There are also four short but sweet featurettes focusing on the “Visual Effects” with “VFX Shot Breakdown: “Engine Room””, “VFX How-To For “I’m Flying”” and “VFX How-To For “First Class Lounge”” and lastly, “Titanic Sinking Simulation”.

Rounding up these astounding amount of extras, we get to some of the archive material.  There is a music video for “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion.  There are many trailers and TV spots included as well as a still gallery. There is a reproduction of his script included, storyboards, photographs, as well as concept posters and one sheets from both the 1997 and 2012 releases. Lastly there are Titanic Parodies including the MTV’s ‘1998 Movie Awards’ Skit, Saturday Night Live’ Skit from January 9, 1999 and ‘Titanic’ in 30 Seconds. So overall, this release is obviously a MUST-PURCHASE!!! One of my favorite releases of the entire year! I can finally enjoy the film in not only HD but also 3D, while not having to worry about getting up many times to use the bathroom.

 

Related Content

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3d, bluray, edition, limited, review, titanic, ...

Blu-ray Review “Hocus Pocus”

Director: Kenny Ortega
Starring: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, Vinessa Shaw
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running Time: 96 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 0 out of 5 stars

Halloween is right around the corner and as much as I love my horror films, this time of the year always makes me think about “Hocus Pocus”. The film is directed by Kenny Ortega, who also did the cult-classic “Newsies” (and yes, “High School Musical”). This film is a perfect family Halloween movie. It has really truly fantastic cast of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy. The film is funny, yet spooky and packs some great special effects. If all that isn’t great who doesn’t love the songs in the film like “I Put a Spell On You”. Classic…yet under-appreciated. Fans of this great film, this film has never looked or sounded better. Sit back and get ready get a spell put on you.

If you still own your “Hocus Pocus” DVD, you might be finally able to toss it away. This Blu-ray definitely takes a huge jump in quality. It is not a perfect presentation but still impressive and worth the 10 year wait for an HD upgrade. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is also great, especially with the songs and score. The film is being released as a combo pack with a Blu-ray disc and a DVD disc. In fact, the DVD in this set is the exact one released back in 2002, which means it is still a non-anamorphic widescreen presentation of the film. To me personally though, the real sell for this release is obviously the Blu-ray.

Sadly, there are absolutely no special features included on this release, not even the original theatrical trailer. I would have loved to seen some fun extras like the classic Disney animated short “Trick or Treat” starring Donald Duck or at least the 1994 episode of The Discovery Channel’s “Movie Magic”, which ties-in with the film itself. Oh well, I guess we will we are lucky enough just to have this film on Blu-ray. It just shows how this film is just considered another catalog title to Disney and will probably always remand-so.

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

Blu-ray Review “The Victim”

Directed by: Michael Biehn
Starring: Michael Biehn, Jennifer Blanc-Biehn, Ryan Honey, Denny Kirkwood, Danielle Harris
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Running Time: 83 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

This film is really the Michael Biehn show. He not only stars, he also wrote and directed this and even co-produced with his wife, Jennifer Blanc-Biehn under BlancBiehn Productions. I have been tracking this film for a little over a year now and let me tell you, I was left very satisifed. The film is very intelligent and sharp. It passes back and forth in time without getting confusing, while releasing little bits of critical plot. It also packs a hell of an ending as well. Michael Biehn really did a great job in this film, as did Jennifer Blanc-Biehn. Really top notch performances all around. The film also was really smartly shot and really keep you interest the entire time.

When two best friends, Annie (Jennifer Blanc-Biehn) and Mary (Danielle Harris) go out on a date with two Sheriff’s Deputies (Ryan Honey, Denny Kirkwood), there life’s will never be the same. When Annie’s witness a violent act at the hands of two, she barely escapes and hides from them with the help of Kyle (Michael Biehn), a recluse living in the middle of the woods. Kyle’s solitary life is turned upside down into chaos after helping Annie.. It is up to both of them to expose the corrupt cops and put this to an end. But who is the real Victim here?

I have always been a fan of Biehn since “The Terminator” and “Aliens”, I mean who isn’t. But he is really kicking some ass in the last few years with this film and even “The Divide”. He’s been putting out some really good shit. I really hope he plans to step behind the camera again but he is definitely one of the few actors, who is able to wear all these different types of hats and still make the film kick-ass. You can tell that a lot of love and labor went into this film for sure and I think that is why it succeed so well. This will entertain a wide variety of genre fans from thriller to horror. Don’t miss this for sure.

When it comes to Anchor Bay’s Blu-ray presentation it definitely upholds the Grindhouse-esque look and feel. The 1080p transfer delivers a very sharp and crisp video, which is presented within its widescreen 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The audio comes packed with an impressive Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track, which really captures the suspense and thrilling aspects of the film. With the special features, I was really hoping for a little more to be honest. There is a very entertaining and informative commentary with writer/director/actor Michael Biehn and his wife producer/actor Jennifer Blanc. After interviewing this duo, I really appreciated this track much more, since I truly understand how much they put into this film. The other extra on the disc is “The Victim: Behind the Scenes”, it covers the production side of the film with some cast/crew interviews.  It is overall decent but I wish it was a little longer.

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

Blu-ray Review “Stephen King’s Sleepwalkers”

Directed by: Mick Garris
Starring: Alice Krige, Brian Krause, Mädchen Amick, Ron Perlman
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Image Entertainment
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running Time: 89 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

When you hear Mick Garris and Stephen King in the same sentence, it is very hard to be let down. After directing this film, Mick Garris went on to become Stephen King’s go-to director helming adaptations of “The Stand” (1994), “The Shining” (1997), “Quicksilver Highway” (1997), “Riding the Bullet” (2004), “Desperation” (2006) and “Bag of Bones” (2011). In my eyes he cannot and has not failed yet. “Sleepwalkers” was also the first Stephen King film that wasn’t based on a previously published book.

This film was released in 1992 and let’s just say it definitely shows its age. Luckily, the effects in the film are still sharp and overall entertaining. “Sleepwalkers” was also one of the first movie to use CGI in order to create a morphing effect for the creatures faces. The effects were created by Apogeeus, which at the time was ground-breaking. If you are looking for cameos, this film has more cameos than an Adam Sandler film. Besides the two listed on the cover, Stephen King and Clive Barker, there is also brief appearances from John Landis, Joe Dante, Tobe Hooper and even Mark Hamill. Horror fans will have a blast picking them all out!

Since this film is 20 years old, Image still delivers a very impressive Blu-ray presentation (mostly). The 1080p looks sharp and helps this film not show its age too much. The audio listed on the case specifies a 5.1 track but instead we get its original track in DTS-HD MA 2.0. Luckily though, it sounds damn good as well, especially with the film’s score and music. Lastly if you are looking for vast extras, you will only find a standard definition trailer included. I would overall recommend for all fans of horror and King’s work.

 

Related Content

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

Blu-ray Review “Battleship”

Directed by: Peter Berg
Starring: Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgård, Brooklyn Decker, Liam Neeson, Tadanobu Asano, Hamish Linklater
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Distributed by: Universal Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 131 minutes

Film: 1 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

When the reviews and bad press came out surrounding this film, I thought to myself…could it really be that bad? Holy Shit! Yes it was. I am a guy and not even the action in the film could keep my interest. I found myself literally laughing out loud at some (if not all) of the dialogue. I have no idea how they thought that they had a decent movie here at all. Liam Neeson pops in and out every 30-40 minutes and is basically misused, as is Brooklyn Decker who they push to the side. Alexander Skarsgård also let’s just say has a “small” appearance in the film. Taylor Kitsch doesn’t know whether he wants to play the role seriously or comedically. I would normally say if you are looking for a fun time check it out, but I honestly can’t say that about this film. Did I also mention it is almost 2 1/2 hours?

Universal’s Blu-ray on the other hand doesn’t disappoint at all. The film cost well over $200 million dollars, so the special effects and CG work is just fantastic. Even though the “aliens” look like retarded cavemen. The 1080p video presentation looks close to amazing. It is also packed with a surround sound breaking DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. I have to admit the one thing I loved in this film was the bass-filled noise when the aliens are showcased, that sounds amazing on the surround track. The release itself is combo pack with the Blu-ray, a DVD disc, a digital copy and also a Ultraviolet digital streaming copy (which I will NOT be adding to my Flixster account). The film is also jam-packed with actual decent special features, which end up being quite more entertaining than the film itself.

The first extra we have is “All Access with Director Peter Berg”, which is a hosted Picture-in-Picture video commentary with interviews, behind-the-scenes featurettes, etc. As much as I am not a fan of Berg, this was decent. There is an interactive “Second Screen Experience” available via your tablet or PC. If you thought the original theatrical ending was bad, the “Alternate Ending Previsualization” is honestly worse. “USS Missouri VIP Tour” is an overview of the actual ships history. “Preparing for Battle” is a cross-over from the game to the film. “All Hands on Deck: The Cast” features Berg talking about the film’s cast. “Engage in Battle” including two location shooting featurettes: “Shooting at Sea” and “All Aboard the Fleet”. “Commander Pete” focusing on the directing style of the genius (sarcasm!) Berg. Lastly, “The Visual Effects” is one of the best features, though sadly it also the shortest.

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

DVD Review “Battle Circus”

Director:   Richard Brooks
Cast:   Humphrey Bogart, June Allyson, Keenan Wynn, Robert Keith
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Humphrey Bogart carries such a presence and always delivers such a great performance.  He is one of the Hollywood legends and this film is no different.  Humphrey Bogart and June Allyson together in the film just work so well. This really represents the classic 50’s MGM productions.  Thanks to Warner Archive, this film is released on DVD for the first time and is also newly remastered.

The film is presented in 4 X 3 full frame and its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio included is a mono track like most released from Warner Archive. The B&W film looks awesome for a film that was released in 1953 that has has never been on DVD. The only extra that comes on this release though is a trailer.  But nonetheless, all fans of Bogart’s classic films will definitely want to check out this release.

Synopsis: Long before M*A*S*H, there was Battle Circus. Made during the Korean War, this tribute to the indomitable human spirit takes an authentic, almost documentary-like look at the nurses and doctors who operated in the battlefront Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals. Major Jed Webbe (Humphrey Bogart) is a brilliant, hard-bitten Army surgeon with a weakness for women and strong liquor. Fresh from the states arrives Lt. Ruth McCara (June Allyson), a naïve young nurse ready to save the world. The story of their love and heroism, told against the grimly realistic background of pounding artillery and deadly ambushes, forms the core of the film. The title Battle Circus comes from the way the mobile field units can strike their tents, move to a new battle area, then set them up again like circus roustabouts in nothing flat. And, like circus daredevils, these heroes risk life and death on a daily basis.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: battle, circus, dvd, review

DVD Review “Born to be Bad”

Directed by: Nicholas Ray
Starring: Joan Fontaine, Robert Ryan, Zachary Scott
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Joan Fontaine is such a Hollywood legend and definitely holds a presence on the screen. Thanks to Warner Archive, this film is released on DVD for the first time and is also newly remastered.The film is presented in 4 X 3 full frame and its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1. The audio included is a mono track like most released from Warner Archive.

Fans looking for a glimpse of Nicholas Ray’s earlier works, then you will enjoy this film. I personally didn’t enjoy the film very much, even though Ms. Fontaine is amazing. The film is categorized under Warner’s Film Noir Archive Collection, but I really don’t feel that this film really lands in that category. The real catch this release is an alternate ending with never-before-seen footage. The DVD also comes with a trailer of the film as well.

Synopsis: One of Nicholas Ray’s earliest works is a shockingly stark and unforgiving look at a woman blessed with no restraint whatsoever when it comes to her own ambition. Joan Fontaine plays Christabel Caine, the anti-heroine who has the face of an angel and the heart of a savage. King of Noir Robert Ryan plays the rough-hewn writer who is good enough to share her bed, but not her hand, while Zachary Scott plays the aviator millionaire too much the naïf to escape his fate. Joan Leslie and Mel Ferrer deliver standout performances as the bystanders, one victim, one ambivalent witness, to the wreckage Christabel leaves behind. And now, Born to be Bad is more shocking than ever, thanks to the recently discovered — and never before seen — alternate, extended ending. An ending that transforms the film from biting critique to a dark, sardonic work of joy.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bad, born, dvd, review

Blu-ray Review “Mother’s Day (1980)”

Directed by: Charles Kaufman
Starring: Nancy Hendrickson, Tiana Pierce, Deborah Luce, Frederick Coffin, Michael McCleery
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

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

I have been a big Troma fan from probably when I was way too young and even was an extra in one of their films, “Terror Firmer” but I was never a huge “Mother’s Day” fan. This was originally released by Troma Entertainment in 1980 and of course back then it shocked critics and developed a huge cult following among horror fans. Darren Lynn Bousman (director of films in the “Saw” series) even helmed the 2012 remake starring Rebecca De Mornay. The film just doesn’t hold up today and even though look and sounds nice on Blu-ray doesn’t really “wow” me. Overall Troma fans can at least rejoice and everyone else can just continue going on with their lives.

“Mother’s Day” follows three young women abducted by homicidal momma’s boys Ike and Addley, while camping. Ike and Addley are goaded by their “Mother” into violent and graphic acts of torture against the three women. While doing everything to stay alive, the three women muster the courage escape, and serve their maniacal abductors some old-fashioned justice! Relating to the films around its time like “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre”, this film will definitely offend the weak of heart!

Since the film is over 30 years old, this film definitely shows its age. It does though feature an all-new HD transfer and looks decent overall with its 1080p resolution and in its original aspect ratio: 1.85:1. The audio track though is impressive sporting its Dolby TrueHD 5.1 goods. The special features on the disc are nothing special really. There is an audio commentary by the director, as well as an interview with behind-the-scenes footage There are also trailers and other sneak peeks. The only new extra is a newly created featurette with Eli Roth (Producer of The Last Exorcism, Grindhouse and Hostel 1 & 2).

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 1980, bluray, day, mothers, review

Book Review “Poster Art of the Disney Parks”

Authors: Daniel Handke, Vanessa Hunt
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: Disney Editions
Release Date: September 11, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

There is something just magically about Disney Parks.  It may not be something that everyone can pick up on who visits the park but it is there if you take the time to open your eyes.  Walking through Disney is such a magical experience, the sights, the music, the smells, the characters…the artwork.  The poster art around Disney is so iconic and memorable, as well as timeless. This book is a tribute to all of those amazing posters that grace the park for the rides and shows.  These wonderful works of art were created for guests by the Imagineers.  The Disney Imagineers are legends and masters of their craft.  There are able to tell a story of each attraction through their artwork and whisk away its audience to a magical place.

Disney’s attraction posters have always been critical part of attraction since Disneyland started displaying them in the late 1950’s.  Not only are they eye-catching wonders but they also give you can insight into the world of Disney and what to expect from the park.  One of the first attraction posters (and maybe the best) was for the ride Jungle Cruise. And they are still such a important factor in today’s times with the 2012 opening of Cars Land in Disney’s California Adventure. Those are just two of the posters that are reproduced and represented within this book. Also showcased is the wonderful art from “Tiki Room” and “Splash Mountain”,  along with dozens of other posters from every decade since the 50’s.

I also really enjoyed watching the art styles and design techniques change over the years and yet still remain the same in a way. It just proves how timeless Disney is and how the art for these rides and shows are relevant today.  In the book, it is doesn’t just focus on Disneyland and Disney World though there is showcasing from all different continents like Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland.  They show have each park has their own unique signature look yet still hold true the Disney charm and spirit lying within them all.  My only real complaint about the book is that there is a bit of white space surrounding the artwork.  Nonetheless Disney Editions scored again with another beautiful coffee table book.  Upon receiving this book, my wife decided to spoof “Jaws” and tell me the following “We’re gonna need a bigger coffee table.”

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: art, book, disney, parks, poster, review, ...

Book Review “The Toy Story Films: An Animated Journey”

Author: Charles Solomon
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Disney Editions
Release Date: August 7, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

The “Toy Story” franchise is simply the best animated series in history. It spans over the course of 15 years, has two 2 sequels each one more amazing than the last and is loved by “kids” young and old. It is rare that each film outdoes the one before it and this franchise did just that. It also helped Pixar become the juggernaut that it is today. If “Toy Story” would have flopped, things might have been a lot different for the studio. The author of this book Charles Solomon, also authored “The Art of Toy Story 3” back in 2010, which still sits on my coffee table through today. This book is so much more than just the “Art of” the film, it dives into the development and the stories of what went into creating this wonderful franchise.

Disney Editions has released some really amazing books over the years but still one quite frankly may be their best yet. “The Toy Story Films: An Animated Journey” tells the story of select group of incredibly talented visionaries used their imaginations and created, developed and shared with the us – Woody, Buzz, and the world behind “Toy Story”. There are many interviews with the animators, directors, and voice actors that brought these films and characters to life. There is also the production artwork showcased that was the inspiration behind them. If that all isn’t cool enough there is also a few untold details about originally proposed non-Pixar “Toy Story 3”, which is something I never knew. This book is definitely a must for those who love animation and the inside look into the story of about how this franchise was created to be what it is today.

If the book isn’t great enough it has a wonderful foreword from Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki, director of films like “Spirited Away” and “Howl’s Moving Castle”. There is also a very encouraging afterword by Pixar’s own John Lasseter. After “Toy Story 3” wrapped up the trilogy, I was upset with the idea of no more installments but who knows what the future will hold. At least for the time being we get new “Toy Story Toons” shorts every year or two. If for nothing else this book definitely reminds us that we are never too old to use our imagination. Congrats Disney Editions and Charles Solomon for delivering my favorite book of the year.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: animated, book, films, journey, review, story, ...

DVD Review “100 Greatest Horror Classics – Horror Classics + Legends of Horror”

Starring: Vincent PRice, Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, Lon Chaney Jr., Christopher Lee and Alfred Hitchcock
Number of discs: 24
Distributed by: Mill Creek Entertainment
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Release Date: July 10, 2012
Running Time: 7600 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When I saw this release titled “100 Greatest Horror Classics”, I had no choice but to request it to review. It just screams my name. Being a horror buff, I love all things horror and that including this. This release is split into two sets of 50 films including “Horror Classics” and “Legends of Horror”. Let me start by telling you they are not the best transfers of these films but nonetheless, they are 100 of horror greatest films together in one place and that is enough for me. The packaging could have used a little extra loving as the each set includes a jumbo DVD case, both which are held together by one long slipcover. Inside each DVD case are individual DVD sleeves with 12 dual discs. There are two films per side/per disc, obviously totally 50 films per set. I suggest you pick a rainy day put in disc 1 and have yourself a day-long marathon.

So before you get overwhelmed the fact that there are 100 films to watch. Let me throw out a quick number…7600. That is the amount of minutes of horror greatness included in this set. If that doesn’t make you run out and pick this up then nothing will. This release even includes a few films that I have never heard of or seen, so I was very excited about that as well.  Mill Creek Entertainment is known for releasing these amazing box sets. They also have a sci-fi themed release as well that I am looking forwarding to reviewing called “100 Greatest Sci-Fi Classics – Sci-Fi Classics + Sci-Fi Invasion”. Keep a look out for that review as well. From cinematic greats to genuine obscurities, this wonderful collection of films easily offer months of entertainment in a single release.

While I not going to give an individual review for each film, as I sure you’ve seen these films already.  I will point on some of the notable titles that I really enjoyed.  I grew up watching the following titles: The Brain That Wouldn’t Die (1962), Carnival of Souls (1962), Dementia 13 (1963), Horror Express (1972), House on Haunted Hill (1959), The Last Man on Earth (1960), The Little Shop of Horrors (1960), Metropolis (1927), Night of the Living Dead (1968), Nosferatu (Silent) (1922) and of course The Phantom of the Opera (Silent) (1925).  I am very happy to be able to have them all in one place.  I also am looking forward to introducing all of these titles to my own daughter…but not for a few years since she is only three months currently.  I will be re-visiting these titles quite often and I look forward to future installments.

Here are the complete list of the 100 titles including in this fantastic release:

Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Chaney Vase (1955)
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (1961)
The Amazing Mr. X (1948)
The Ape (1940)
The Ape Man (1943)
Atom Age Vampire (1960)
Attack of the Giant Leeches (1959)
The Bat (1959)
The Beast of Yucca Flats (1961)
The Black Dragons (1942)
Blackmail (1929)
Bloodlust (1959)
Bluebeard (1944)
The Bowery at Midnight (1942)
The Brain That Wouldn’t Die (1962)
Carnival of Souls (1962)
Champagne (Silent) (1928)
The Corpse Vanishes (1942)
Count Dracula and His Vampire Bride (1974)
Creature from the Haunted Sea (1961)
Crimes at the Dark House (1940)
The Crimes of Stephen Hawke (1936)
Dead Men Walk (1943)
Dementia 13 (1963)
The Demon (1979)
The Devil Bat (1940)
The Devil’s Messenger (1962)
Doomed to Die (1940)
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (Silent) (1920)
Easy Virtue (Silent) (1926)
The End of the World (1977)
The Face at the Window (1939)
The Farmer’s Wife (Silent) (1928)
The Fatal Hour (1940)
The Fury of the Wolf Man (1972)
The Ghost (1963)
The Giant Gila Monster (1959)
The Gorilla (1939)
Horror Express (1972)
House on Haunted Hill (1959)
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Silent) (1923)
The Incredible Petrified World (1957)
The Indestructible Man (1956)
The Invisible Ghost (1941)
The Island Monster (1954)
It’s Never Too Late to Mend (1937)
Jamaica Inn (1939)
Juno and the Paycock (1930)
The Killer Shrews (1959)
King of the Zombies (1941)
The Lady Vanishes (1938)
The Last Man on Earth (1960)
The Last Woman on Earth (1960)
Legacy of Blood (1971)
The Little Shop of Horrors (1960)
The Lodger (Silent) (1926)
The Long Hair of Death (1964)
The Mad Monster (1942)
The Man Who Knew Too Much (1934)
Manfish (1956)
Maniac (1934)
The Manxman (Silent)
Metropolis (1927)
Monster from a Prehistoric Planet (1967)
The Monster Maker (1944)
The Monster Walks (1932)
Murder in the Red Barn (1935)
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Nightmare Castle (1965)
The Nightmare Never Ends (1980)
Nosferatu (Silent) (1922)
Number Seventeen (1932)
One Body Too Many (1944)
The Phantom Creeps (1939)
The Phantom from 10,000 Leagues (1956)
The Phantom of the Opera (Silent) (1925)
Revolt of the Zombies (1936)
Rich and Strange (1932)
The Ring (Silent) (1927)
Sabotage (1936)
A Scream in the Night (1935)
The Screaming Skull (1958)
Secret Agent (1936)
Shadow of Chinatown (1936)
The Shadow of Silk Lennox (1935)
The She-Beast (1966)
Shock (1946)
A Shriek in the Night (1933)
Silent Night, Bloody Night (1974)
The Skin Game (1931)
Swamp Women (1955)
The Terror (1963)
The Thirty-Nine Steps (1935)
The Ticket of Leave Man (1937)
Tormented (1960)
The Vampire Bat (1933)
The Werewolf vs. Vampire Women (1971)
White Zombie (1932)
The World Gone Mad (1933)
Young and Innocent (1937)

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 100, classics, dvd, greatest, horror, legends, ...

Blu-ray Review “Safe”

Director: Boaz Yakin
Starring: Jason Statham, Chris Sarandon, Catherine Chan, Robert John Burke, James Hong, Anson Mount
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Lions Gate
DVD Release Date: September 4, 2012
Run Time: 95 minutes

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

If there is one thing that is guaranteed with Jason Statham, it is that he knows action. “Safe” is an action-packed thriller, which is his best role since “The Transporter” series. He plays Luke Wright, an MMA cage fighter who tries to rescue a young girl and gets caught between the Russian Mafia, the Triads, and the NYPD. The film also had a great supporting cast of Chris Sarandon (“Fright Night”) and James Hong (“Big Trouble in Little China”). “Safe” is from the director of “Remember The Titans” and the producers of “Kill Bill” and “Inglorious Basterds”, so you know your in good hands. So get your popcorn and get ready for some adrenaline-charged action with Statham kicking some ass!

Lionsgate’s official synopsis: “Wright wanders the streets of New York full of guilt and anger until he encounters Mei (newcomer Catherine Chan), a frightened 12-year-old Chinese girl. An orphaned math prodigy, Mei had been forced to work for the Triads as a counter and holds the key to a numerical code that could destroy the Triads, the mob, and corrupt cops within the NYPD. After discovering that the same gangsters who killed his family are pursuing her, Wright takes matters into his own hands to protect the innocent girl and seek revenge.”

Lionsgate delivers one hell of a kick-ass Blu-ray with this release. It comes as a Blu-ray/Digital Copy combo pack including an Ultraviolet streaming copy. The film in its original aspect ratio of 2.39:1 and looks awesome in its 1080p transfer. The star of the film though, sorry Jason, is the 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. It works so well with the action scenes and just overall so impressive. The special features on the disc are decent overall as well. There is an interested commentary track from writer/director Boaz Yakin. As well as three short but sweet Behind-the-scenes featurettes including “Cracking Safe”, “Criminal Battleground” and “The Art of the Gunfight”. Overall give a nice broad though short look at the production.

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

DVD Review “The Loved Ones”

Directed by: Sean Byrne
Starring: Xavier Samuel, Robin McLeavy, Victoria Thaine, Jessica McNamee, Richard Wilson
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Paramount
Release Date: September 11, 2012
Running Time: 84 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars

“The Loved Ones” is a a 2009 Australian horror film that is just seeing the light of day in the US, thanks to Paramount.  Australian horror has been known to be extremely intense like “Wolf Creek” and this film is no different.  There is a certain comedic approach to this film, so it leans back a little otherwise it would be so brutal.  As a horror fan, I have to admit that this film was definitely not on my radar but I am very happy to have experience it.  That is kind of the word to use as well.  I would like to compare it if “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” went to the prom and things get very bloody.

Premise: Hell hath no fury…like a prom queen scorned. When Brent rejects Lola’s invitation to prom, he sets off a chain of events that leave him the victim of her twisted revenge. Now he’s the only guest at Lola’s terrifying and demented prom, and must fight to survive what could be his final dance. Will Brent live through this nightmare of drills, nails, glitter and syringes…or become one of Lola’s “loved ones”?

This film runs 84 minutes and it is perfect timing.  It runs just long enough to leave you with your mouth opening wondering what the hell just happened.  This film is also presented unrated, so you know that this is no PG-13 teen friendly prom horror film.  As far as special features go, there is only a few interviews from the cast and crew.  But I really liked that fact that the film also comes with an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy of the film. Overall horror fans should not miss this film for sure.

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

Blu-ray Review “Mad Monster Party”

Directed by: Jules Bass
Starring: Boris Karloff, Allen Swift, Gale Garnett, Phyllis Diller, Ethel Ennis
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running Time: 94 minutes

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

Lionsgate Home Entertainment is finally bringing one of Rankin/Bass’ classic films “Mad Monster Party” to Blu-ray. This stop-motion animation full-length film is arriving just in time to start getting in the mood for Halloween. The film packs some fun/catchy songs from Maury Laws & Jules Bass and great voice cast including Boris Karloff and Allen Swift. The Blu-ray itself isn’t really much more than an updated port of the 2009 DVD Special Edition release. Nonetheless it is definitely worth the purchase for all stop-motion and Rankin/Bass fans to owe this classic film on Blu-ray.

Premise: “Baron Von Frankenstein has decided to retire as the head of the Worldwide Organization of Monsters. But first, he must inform the other monsters about his plans. How to deliver the news? How else – through a Mad Monster Party! Von Frankenstein’s guests include a who’s who of Halloween favorites, including the Werewolf, Dracula, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the Mummy, the Invisible Man, and more. But who among them is fit to be the new head of the monsters?”

The film is being released as a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack, which is also a great bonus. The video looks fantastic with its 1080p transfer and presented in an full screen 1.33:1 aspect ratio. The film shows its age a little and the colors seems a little muted but nonetheless it very impressive transfer. The Monaural DTS-HD Master Audio track is impressive this film and its fun songs. I look forward to introducing this film to my daughter (now three months old) and share it each Halloween.

The special features are the same as the 2009 Special Edition. There are three Behind-the-scenes featurettes including on this release. My favorite was “Mad Monster Party: Making of a Cult Classic”, which features interviews from Rankin/Bass historian Rick Goldschmidt and Arthur Rankin Jr. “Groovy Ghouls: The Music of Mad Monster Party” is a great but short look at the films music with Maury Laws. The last one is called “It’s Sheer Animagic! Secrets of Stop-Motion Animation”, it is a look into what it takes to work with puppets. Lastly there are two bonus sing-along tracks and a trailer included.

Read Complete Article
Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, mad, monster, party, review
« sdf
Previous
Page 200 of 272
Next
Next Page »