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CD Review “Nick Cave & Warren Ellis Present: Lawless – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack”

Nick Cave & Warren Ellis
Lawless: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Distributed by: Sony Masterworks
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Tracks: 14
Running Time: 39 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Nick Cave & Warren Ellis have collaborated on many films including “The Proposition”, “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” and “The Road”. They all seem to have the same feel to each of them, though all unique. The film is based on Matt Bondurant’s 2008 novel “The Wettest County in the World” and that novel was adapted into a screenplay by Nick Cave. The soundtrack is a nice mixture of original songs written by Nick Cave for the movie and performances by Country legends Willie Nelson and Emmylou Harris along with Grammy Award winner Ralph Stanley (O Brother, Where Art Thou) and Mark Lanegan from Screaming Trees and Queens of the Stone Age.

Nick Cave and Warren Ellis are best known for their work in the critically acclaimed rock band, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Cave and Ellis mixed their original music with innovative vocal under the name of The Bootleggers, which was the band they formed for the project. After listening to this album on loop a few times, I did start to dig it a bit more, but I feel it still runs a little too short for my taste. Nonetheless, it definitely captures the essence of the film very well. It also has a real period feel of country mixed with bluegrass. I would actually recommend listening to it and THEN seeing the film, since it will definitely get you in the mood.

The track from country legend Willie Nelson was actually previously unreleased and packs a mean harmonica. There are two versions of Velvet Underground’s “White Light/White Heat”, one by Mark Lanegan and the other by bluegrass veteran Ralph Stanley. The two new songs that Cave and Ellis specifically wrote for this film was “Cosmonaut” and “Fire in the Blood” featuring versions from Emmylou Harris and Ralph Stanley. The album ends on an instrumental track called “End Crawl, which is a brave move but is a good close.

Track Listings
1. Fire and Brimstone
2. Burnin’ Hell
3. Sure ‘Nuff ‘N Yes I Do
4. Fire in the Blood
5. White Light / White Heat
6. Cosmonaut
7. Fire in the Blood / Snake Song
8. So You’ll Aim Towards the Sky
9. Fire in the Blood
10. Fire and Brimstone
11. Sure ‘Nuff ‘N Yes I Do
12. White Light / White Heat
13. End Crawl
14. Midnight Run
15. Midnight Run (Buddy Cannon Mix)

Blu-ray Review “The Terminator Anthology”

Directors: James Cameron, McG, Jonathan Mostow
Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Biehn, Linda Hamilton, Eddie Furlong, Nick Stahl, Christian Bale and Sam Worthington
Distributed by: Warner Bros.
MPAA Rating: R / PG-13 / Not Rated
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 472 minutes

The Terminator: 3.5 of 5 stars
Terminator 2: Judgment Day: 4.5 of 5 stars
Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines: 3 out of 5 stars
Terminator Salvation: 3 of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

It’s amazing when you look back on the “The Terminator” franchise and see that it has been kicking ass since 1984 through 2009, and I am sure we haven’t seen the end. This anthology box set release is a Best Buy Exclusive and is the first time that these four films from the “Terminator” franchise have been released together including “The Terminator (1984)”, “Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)”, “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003)” and “Terminator Salvation (2009)”. The five-disc release offers seven cuts, the theatrical editions of each film, plus the THX extended and special editions cuts of “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” edits and the R-rated director’s cut of “Terminator Salvation”. This is truly the definitive collection of all four films on Blu-ray…if you don’t own these films already. If you own this already then this will not be for you since it is basically just a repackage.

If you are looking for any new remasters of this these films, keep waiting for the future foreign releases. ll the films are presented in 1080p transfer, all the same as their previous releases. “The Terminator” still looks good but not perfect within its 1.85:1 transfer, though it sounds amazing with its uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround track. “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” still looksstunning and holds up with its 1080p transfer and aspect ratio of 2.35:1. The film also blows up surround sound with its DTS-HD MA 6.1 audio track. “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines” disc still has its problem though it does come with a 1080p transfer, it is still sporting its Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track. Lastly since “Terminator Salvation” is the newest it looks amazing on Blu-ray with its 1080p transfer and 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 is also easily the best in the franchise behind “T2”.

The following special features included on this release are very impressive. “The Terminator” includes “A Restrospective” documentary, seven deleted scenes and “Creating The Terminator: Visual Effects & Music” featurette”. T”Terminator 2: Judgment Day” includes over 8 hours of interactive special features including behind-the-scenes video and multimedia galleries, storyboard-script mode, quizzes and games. There are also two commentary tracks including James Cameron and writer William Wisher and 26 cast & crew members. “Terminator: Rise of the Machines” includes an intro from Arnold Schwarzenegger, as well as three audio commentaries with the stars and director. There is the HBO First Look, two featurettes; “Dressed to Kill” and “Toys in Action” and also a gag reel. Lastly there is the Making of the Video Game. “Terminator Salvation” packs a punch within its WB Maximum Mode with Storyboard Comparisons and an Terminator Mythology Timeline. There is also a documentary called “Re-Forging the Future: Reinventing the Franchise” and lastly a featurette called “The Moto-Terminator: The Relationship Between the Filmmakers and Ducati”.

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Blu-ray Review “Blood Money”

Directed by: Gregory McQualter
Starring: Gordon Liu, Pitbull, Zheng Liu
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: XLrator Media
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 107 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars

“Blood Money” tries to be a fun and action packed movie and it delivers most of the goods…except a cohesive plot. The film stars newcomer Zheng Liu and cameos from “World Famous Rap Star” Pitbull (don’t blink) and Kung-Fu legend Gordon Liu (“Kill Bill 1 & 2”). The only thing that keeps this movie from computer sucking is because it includes real action and real fighting. The film’s fight sequences are done without stuntmen or CGI. One of the most noteworthy scenes are where Zheng Liu does a flying somersault over the raging Harley Davidson. If that isn’t cool enough, Zheng Liu sldo breaks a steel bar on his dead with the actual location sound captured. The action is awesome but doesn’t make it overcome its weak and blotchy plot.

SYNOPSIS: BLOOD MONEY introduces American audiences to the martial arts sensation Zheng Liu, often called “the next Bruce Lee,” and features world-famous rap star Pitbull and Hong Kong film legend Chia Hui Liu aka Gordon Liu (Kill Bill 1 & 2). When a powerful Shaolin warrior (Zheng Liu) turns to crime after his parents are killed and sister kidnapped, the drug cartels of America, Australia and Hong Kong are about to feel the sting of the world’s deadliest hitman.

I think we are going to be seeing a lot more of Zheng Liu in the US. This film is being released by XLrator Media as a combo pack with both Blu-ray disc and DVD disc. The Blu-ray presentation overall is good. The 1080p presentation is sharp and the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks works perfectly with the film’s action sequences. If you are looking for special features to see behind-the-scenes on this production you will be very disappointed. Since this film promotes “real action and real fighting”, I would have loved to have seen how it was all done etc. Oh well. There is only a trailer included on this release.

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3D Blu-ray Review “The Pirates! Band of Misfits in 3D”

Directors: Jeff Newitt, Peter Lord
Starring: Hugh Grant, Salma Hayek, Jeremy Piven, Martin Freeman, Imelda Staunton
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 88 minutes

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

After seeing the trailer for “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” five thousand times over a course of a few months, I grew very disinterested in this film. Though when viewing it at home on 3D Blu-ray, I was very impressed. It is a fun, over-the-top stop-motion animated adventure film that will entertain the entire family. There is colorful characters for the kids and colorful jokes for the adults. The voice cast is also very impressive with Hugh Grant, Martin Freeman, Salma Hayek and Jeremy Piven. The humor is a little British but still manages to keep you entertained throughout the film feature. I am not sure how many times I would be interested in revisiting this film but it is definitely game for at least one good viewing.

This film has been released as a three-disc set with two Blu-ray’s (3D and 2D) and a DVD copy of the film. There is also a Ultraviolet digital streaming copy available. The 3D on this film was not the best I have ever seen but overall decent. That doesn’t mean the film doesn’t look stunning on Blu-ray. It’s 1080p video resolution is beautiful and really showcases the animations and its colors. The film also includes a DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround track and it is also near perfect as well. It works so well with the film’s action scenes and zany antics. Like most 3D films, all of the extras are located on the 2D-only disc. The only extra on the 3D disc are 3D previews.

The special features are decent but nothing out of this world. I just would have loved to seen some 3D features. There is an audio commentary with directors Peter Lord and Jeff Newitt and Editor Justin Krish. Very detailed but overall not that interesting. There is short film included, which runs almost 20 minutes called “So You Want To Be a Pirate!”. “Pirate Disguise Dress-Up Game” is a cute ‘hide-the-pirate’ game for kids. “From Stop to Motion” is my favorite feature which goes into detail on the development process on the animation. “Creating the Bath Chase Sequence” is a specific focus on one of the film’s most complex scenes. Lastly there are two short films from Peter Lord including “Wat’s Pig” and “War Story” both are available with optional director’s commentary.

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Blu-ray Review “Pocahontas / Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World”

Directors: Tom Ellery, Bradley Raymond
Starring: Irene Bedard, Mel Gibson, David Ogden Stiers, Christian Bale, Linda Hunt, Frank Welker
MPAA Rating: G
Studio: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 153 minutes

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

This release for “Pocahontas” 2-Movie Collection includes both “Pocahontas / Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World”. Of course we all know that “Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World” is not as good as it’s predecessor but is not the worst DTV sequel that Disney ever made. I would rather have the film included on this set to complete the series then on a separate release. This three-disc set includes 1 Blu-ray disc and 2 DVDs. “Pocahontas” never really found its main audience with fans, besides having a hit song “Color of the Wind”. I have always liked it and it is still a beautiful film and worth the purchase. Whether you like “Pocahontas” or it’s sequel “Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World”, this is still a must for all Disney fans!

“Pocahontas and Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World” are both included on the same BD-50 disc, though this doesn’t affect either film’s presentation. The 1080p video transfers look impressive on both films though age has not been kind to either one. “Pocahontas” looks better than its DTV sequel since “Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World” shows its cheaper animation budget. Both “Pocahontas and Pocahontas II: Journey To A New World” contain a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. I thought that the music and score for “Pocahontas” definitely sounds better and overall really sharp.

The special features are decent for these films and definitely leave you satisfied. There is an audio commentary track with Producer James Pentecost and co-directors Eric Goldberg and Mike Gabriel. Overall not my favorite track ever but still informative. The next two extras are presented in HD. “Drawing Inspiration: The Lost Story of Hiawatha” follows Goldberg and animation historian Charles Solomon as they discuss the long-lost animated feature film that was never made. Highly recommended. There is a deleted song called “If I Never Knew You” with optional commentary with Goldberg, Gabriel and Pentecost. There is also nine storyboarded scenes deleted from “Pocahontas”, running about 15 minutes. “The Music of Pocahontas” is a featurette on the film’s notable music and songs. There is a cartoon short called “Little Hiawatha” from the 1937 Walt Disney Silly Symphony. Lastly there is “Disney’s Virtual Vault” which included featurettes and extras from the original DVDs available via BD-Live.

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Blu-ray Review “The Rescuers / The Rescuers Down Under”

Directors: Wolfgang Reitherman, Hendel Butoy, Art Stevens, Mike Gabriel, John Lounsbery
Starring: Bob Newhart, Bob Newhart, Eva Gabor, Geraldine Page, John Candy
MPAA Rating: G
Studio: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 155 minutes

Films: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

This 35th Anniversary Edition release for “The Rescuers” 2-Movie Collection includes both “The Rescuers / The Rescuers Down Under”. Of course we all know that “Down Under” is not as good as the 1977 original but still a decent film. This three-disc set includes 1 Blu-ray disc and 2 DVDs. Cool note is that this release also includes an exclusive offer though Disney Movie Rewards to own a piece of music history with “Disney’s The Lost Chords: The Rescuers”. It include original music not included in the film and is available for only $4 dollars. This is truly a no-brainer for fans of this film. Overall whether you like “Down Under” or not, this is still a must for all Disney fans!

Firstly to clear up, “The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under” are both included on the same BD-50 disc, though this doesn’t affect either film’s presentation. The 1080p video transfers on both look out of this world. I have to saw that “Down Under” does look slightly better but I give that to the age difference between the two. “The Rescuers” looks simply terrific for a film made in 1977. The colors are very sharp and vibrant on Blu-ray. “The Rescuers Down Under” is also very satisfying and makes for one impressive transfer and definitely worth checking out just for the transfer. Both “The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under” contains fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround tracks. The music in “The Rescuers” sounds beautiful and extremely clear, which is impressive for a 35 year old film.

The special features are decent but nothing to brag about. There is a deleted song called “Peoplitis”, from “The Rescuers” with a introduction from Ron Clements in high definition. “Water Birds – A True Life Adventure” is a 1952 Academy Award-winning documentary, which runs about 30 minutes. It was produced by Walt Disney and narrated by Winston Hibler. “Three Blind Mouseketeers” is an Walt Disney Silly Symphony animated short circa 1936, presented in SD. There sing along for The Rescuers’ “Someone’s Waiting for You.” Lastly the only special feature for “Down Under” is “The Making of The Rescuers Down Under”, which is a short 10 minute vintage behind-the-scenes featurette, also only presented in SD.

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Film Review “Premium Rush”

Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Dania Ramirez and Michael Shannon
Directed by: David Koepp
Rated: PG 13
Running time: 1 hr 31 mins
Columbia

Our Score: 2 out 5 stars

There are 1500 bicycle messengers on the street in Manhattan every day. At least that is what we’re told in the opening narration of “Premium Rush.” If you’ve ever been to Manhattan (guilty) you can’t help but marvel at how these two-wheeled delivery boys (and girls) risk serious injury to speed through some of the most congested traffic in the world. Wilee (Gordon-Levitt) is one of those delivery boys. A former BMX/trick rider he zooms through the streets on a bike with one speed and no brakes. When a last minute delivery order comes in,with instructions to get the package to Chinatown before a certain time, Wilee jumps at the chance to get the gig. But when he finds himself being chased and harassed though rush hour traffic, for the envelope he’s carrying, he may decide to quit his day-job!

An almost thrilling 90 minutes, “Premium Rush” begins very slowly to set up the speed in which director Keoepp’s cameras speed recklessly through the streets. As the audience goes along for the ride you’ll marvel at how our two wheeled heroes maneuver around cabs and pedestrians to ensure they’re packages arrive, be it rain, sleet, snow or maniac.

The cast is so-so, with Gordon-Levitt having nothing more to do then ride a bike through traffic and antagonize the police. The first cop (Michael Shannon) was apparently told to do a comical yet serious imitation of Christopher Walken, which is a shame because when necessary Shannon is one hell of an actor. Here he bugs his eyes and whines his dialogue as he tries to recover what he thinks is his. He is truly one person to avoid on the streets, this current film included.

There is also a romance and scenes of what may or may not be human trafficking but unless the action is happening on the back of a Schwinn it pretty much is only hinted at on screen. The story is also very reminiscent of a 1986 film entitled “Quicksilver,” which starred Kevin Bacon and Jami Gertz. “Premium Rush” only comes to life when Gordon-Levitt plays “what if” – imagining the outcome on his person depending on which route he takes before he takes it. Clever, yes, but not enough to rescue this package!

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Blu-ray Review “The Aristocats”

Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
Starring: Phil Harris, Eva Gabor, Scatman Crothers, Sterling Holloway, Dean Clark
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 78 minutes

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

“The Aristocats” is the last animated film to be graced by the late Walt Disney’s blessing. It is definitely a different kind of Disney classic but still a classic nonetheless. If you go to France at Walt Disney World’s Epcot, you can still meet Marie in the country. I am not sure if kids know who she is but maybe not the line with be a little longer. Disney did a really great job of restoration this film. The film is over 40 years old and even though it doesn’t look like it was made yesterday, it still looks good and has a certain charm about it. I can’t wait to sit down and watch this film with my daughter (now only 3 months old). Fans of Disney should definitely pick up this title quickly before they usher it back into the vault. I mean who doesn’t love swingin’ jazz cats who save the day?

This isn’t the only film released out of the vault though. Besides this film, August 21st saw the release seven animated films over five different Blu-ray, including “The Aristocats”, “The Rescuers & The Rescuers Down Under”, “Pocahontas & Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” and “The Tigger Movie”. Disney if you are reading this, I still want to see a Blu-ray release for films like “Robin Hood” and “The Sword in the Stone”…(hint-hint). This release also includes a little bonus of a digital download of “The Aristocats: Disney Classics Storybook” app on iPhone. Definitely taking advantage of that bonus.

“The Aristocats” was restored to Blu-ray with a whole lot of Disney magic. It’s 1080p video transfer couldn’t look anymore better, especially for its age. The forty-two-year old animation and hand-painted backgrounds are still sharp and very colorful. Diney’s DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track sounds just as amazing as the film looks. The songs, the music, the jazzy feel for the film is just leaking out of this track and really gets your feet kicking.

The special features are decent as well and a bunch are even in HD. “The Lost Open” is a storyboarded deleted scene that features a cut character and song introduced by “Aristocats” songwriter Richard M. Sherman. There is a a second deleted song included as well called, “She Never Felt Alone.” “The Sherman Brothers: The Aristocats of Disney Songs” is an all-too brief look at the Shermans’ contributions to “The Aristocats”. There is a sing-along version of the film with the lyrics in a subtitle track. There is also a Classic Song Selection with four sing-along songs from the film. There is a music Video for “Oui Oui Marie,” a skipping-record Aristocats remix by D!tto. There is a retro 1956 Animated Special Excerpt called “The Great Cat Family,” hosted by Walt Disney. Lastly there is bonus classic Walt Disney short called “Bath Day,” featuring Minnie Mouse and Figaro.

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Blu-ray Review “Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure”

Directors: Darrell Rooney, Jeannine Roussel
Starring: Scott Wolf, Alyssa Milano, Chazz Palminteri, Jeff Bennett, Jodi Benson, Bill Fagerbakke
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 69 minutes

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

When it comes to Disney’s direct-to-video titles, I give them a certain leniency since they are good for what they deliver. They don’t trump the previous films in quality but they also don’t try to either. “Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure” delivers a very fun and cute film that is filled with colorful characters and non-stop songs. This story picks up with Lady and Tramp’s mischievous pup, Scamp (Scott Wolf), who runs away after getting fed up with rules and restrictions and longs for a wild and free lifestyle. It is notable to say that this film does have some great voice talent including Scott Wolf, Alyssa Milano, Chazz Palminteri, and Disney voice legend Jodi Benson. Fans of “Lady and the Tramp” and the Disney animation will enjoy this release but it is definitely aimed to please the kiddies.

This isn’t the only film released out of the vault though. Besides this film, August 21st saw the release seven animated films over five different Blu-ray, including “The Aristocats”, “The Rescuers & The Rescuers Down Under”, “Pocahontas & Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World” and “The Tigger Movie”. Disney if you are reading this, I still want to see a Blu-ray release for films like “Robin Hood” and “The Sword in the Stone”…(hint-hint).

Disney released this film as a two-disc set, including a Blu-ray disc and a DVD disc. “Scamp’s Adventure” looks beautiful on Blu0ray with its 1080p video transfer. Even for its standard direct-to-video Disney sequel, it looks just as good as theatrical features. Same goes for its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. Even though the songs are not the best, they still sound amazing.

The special features are impressive as well. Firstly we have an audio commentary with director Darrell Rooney, animation director Steve Trenbirth and co-director/producer Jeannine Roussel, which is worth checking out for parents. “From Tramp to Scamp” is the only extras presented in standard definition. IT is a making-of feature that runs just under 20 minutes and is a pretty in depth look a the production. There is a cute pop-up animal fact trivia track aimed for kids as well as five songs delivered with karaoke-style subtitles. Lastly (and my favorite) there are three classic Walt Disney Shorts in HD “Pluto Junior,” “Bone Trouble” and “Pluto’s Kid Brother.”

Blu-ray Review “The Tigger Movie”

Director: Jun Falkenstein
Starring: Jim Cummings, Nikita Hopkins, Ken Sansom, John Fiedler, Peter Cullen, Andre Stojka
Narrator: John Hurt
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 77 minutes

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

When it comes to anything to do with Winnie the Pooh and his friends at the 100 acre woods immediately count me in. I remember seeing this film in the theaters 12 years ago. This film took Tigger as his sets out looking through the hundred-acre-wood to find his family. I thought it was cute then but I absolutely loved it now. Maybe it was the fact that I was watching it with my 3 month old daughter who was having a blast, especially whenever Eeyore came on the screen. Maybe it was the stunning Blu-ray presentation from Disney. Also if anyone is watching with kids, I would recommend pausing the film since it comes with a wonderful intermission presentation. Pausing a movie has never been more fun with cute interactive activities for kids to enjoy during bathroom or sneak break. I think every kids film should have something like this… brilliant!

This isn’t the only film released out of the vault though. Besides this film, August 21st saw the release seven animated films over five different Blu-ray, including “The Aristocats”, “Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure”, “The Rescuers & The Rescuers Down Under” and “Pocahontas & Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World”. Disney if you are reading this, this would have also been a great time to bring other similar titles like “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh”, “Piglet’s Big Movie” and “Pooh’s Heffalump Movie” to Blu-ray as well (hint-hint)…just sayin’. Overall all Disney fans should definitely not miss this release. Can I stress definitely not to miss?

This Blu-ray is being released as a two-disc set including the Blu-ray and also a DVD copy of the film. Like I mentioned, “The Tigger Movie” looks absolutely stunning on Blu-ray and completely trumps its past DVD releases. It’s 1080p video transfer is very bright and colorful, I have never seen the hundred acre woods look some fantastic and its inhabitants. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio surround track works really well, especially with the film’s songs. Overall it is just “fun, fun, fun, fun, fun” in the words of Tigger.

The special features though are a good but just a bit of a let down, even though they were at least presented in HD. “A Tigger Tale” is a short roundtable with the filmmakers chatting about Winnie the Pooh, his friends and the development of the this feature. “Mini Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” include ten Winnie the Pooh mini-movies narrated by John Cleese. But for those that don’t realize they are actually just re-used scenes from “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and “The Tigger Movie”. Lastly there is a Sing-Along Song for “Round My Family Tree,” as sung by Tigger and a Music Video for “Your Heart Will Lead You Home,” by Kenny Loggins.

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Blu-ray Review “The Life and Death of a Porno Gang”

Directed by: Mladen Djordjevic
Starring: Mihajlo Jovanovic, Ana Acimovic, Predrag Damnjanovic, Radivoj Knezevic
MPAA Rating: NR
Distributed by: Synapse Films
Release Date: August 14, 2012
Running Time: 113 minutes

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

Synapse Films is known best for delivering really great cult classic genre films, which all are beautifully presented on Blu-ray. This Serbian shocker film was more an acquisition, it is also the first film that I regret watching. Now I knew exactly what I was getting myself into prior to watching this but it didn’t make it any easier to swallow (no pun intended…well maybe some). As it is stated this film is definitely not for the faint of heart or easily offended. I am neither of those and yet I still had trouble with this film. Also the running time of almost two hours is just way to long. It might have worked better within a quick 80 minutes. Though if you are a fan of films like “A Serbian Film”, then you might want to check this out.

Premise: “During the final days of Slobodan MiloÂševic’s Serbian rule, a young film student named Marko becomes desperate to make a feature film. Finally getting a job as an adult film director, he quickly runs afoul of the mob and needs to get out of town fast! Assembling a traveling group of misfits into a “porno cabaret,” Marko and his new friends drive though the quiet countryside in a beat-up van performing live sex acts for peasants and farmers. But life is hard on the road, and they find it hard to earn enough money to survive.”

The Blu-ray presentation looks good enough even though it was shot to look homemade. Like most films from Synapse Films, this comes with a reversible artwork which the flip side is graphic. The special features are impressive and include some decent extras. “Made in Serbia” is a 101 minute feature length documentary focusing on the Serbian adult film industry. There is featurette focusing on the “Making of” this film, as well as some deleted scenes (which were rightfully cut). Lastly there is the theatrical trailer included.

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Blu-ray Review “Shark Week”

Directed by: Chris Olen Ray
Starring: Patrick Bergin, Yancy Butler, Josh Allen, Erin Coker
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Asylum Home Ent
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

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

When it comes to The Asylum films, I am first one in line. I was anticipating “Shark Week” this summer timed to steal some spotlight with Discovery Channel’s 25th Anniversary of “Shark Week”, I am sure. The film manages to bring the Asylum’s usual charm but doesn’t excel much. I am a fan of Chris Olen Ray’s work, especially in the shark genre with “2 Headed Shark Attack” and “Mega Shark vs. Crocosaurus” but still one falls a little flat. The CG is not the worst, I’ve seen and some parts are actually kind of kick-ass. Lastly, it also seemed like Patrick Bergin and Yancy Butler didn’t really have much to do in the film besides sit in front of computer. I call this a one-time watcher at most.

The premise is quite decent actually b It follows a group of strangers who find themselves captured at a wealthy madman’s island compound and are forced to survive a barrage of ever deadlier species of shark. The film has been quoted as “Saw” meets “Jaws”, which would have actually been awesome but the execution of that cool idea is where the film fails. When I interviewed the director, even he did not have any faith in this film saying “I am surprised we were even able to get a movie out of it…The concept behind this movie was such a great concept for it to turn out the way it did.”

I have no complaints with the the Blu-ray itself. It is a typical Asylum release and delivers a decent HD experience with both its 1080p video and its 5.1 surround sound audio track. The special features also follow the typical Asylum route and are a little light but still decent. There is a short behind-the-scenes feature called “The Making of Shark Week”. Lastly there is a gag reel included. Both features are worth checking out, even if you didn’t enjoy the film. I just wish the film was as amazing as the box cover!

DVD Review “The Cool Ones”

Directed by: Gene Nelson
Starring: Roddy Mcdowall, Debbie Watson, Gil Peterson, Phil Harris, Robert Coote, Nita Talbot,George Furth, Mrs. Miller, The Bantams, Glen Campbell, The Leaves, T.J. And The Fourmations
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 110 minutes

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I enjoy the musical genres, just as much as the new person. This isn’t really a musical more a film based in the music world. I feel that the film is really aged and although this entertaining was a bit of struggle to get through. Roddy McDowall co-starring in this film was a real draw for me but he wasn’t really front and center enough for me to really dig it. But the music in the film was easily enough to make this film at least watchable including classic tracks like “This Town”.

Like in the past though, Warner Archive does not disappoint the the newly restored transfer of this film. It is presented in its original aspect ration of 2:40.1 and in 16X9 widescreen letterbox. The audio in the film works well with the music scenes with its Dolby Mono track. Fans of 60’s music films should definitely check this out, worth at least one watch. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film.

Synopsis: Hey, you! Wanna catch the L.A. garage band that first recorded the oft-covered rock essential “Hey Joe?” That would be the Leaves, seen here in a performance of “In the House of Dr. Stone.” The Cool Ones has more cool musical stuff, too. Like Glen Campbell on his way to country/pop renown. Plus “This Town,” the song composed by Lee Hazlewood (the film’s music supervisor) that would become a Frank Sinatra staple. And the quirky song styling of mid-’60s camp sensation Mrs. Miller. The film’s story spoofs the music industry as it unwinds its loopy tale of a rock kingmaker (Roddy McDowall) and the girl-boy singing duo he plans to rocket to the top of the charts by making them everyone’s favorite romantic pair. Tammy TV and film star Debbie Watson plays the duo’s starry-eyed ex-go-go dancer, and Gil Peterson portrays the handsome crooner whose career had been flatlining. Look for uncredited Teri Garr (Young Frankenstein).

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: cool, dvd, review

DVD Review “Young Cassidy”

Directed by: Jack Cardiff
Starring: Rod Taylor, Julie Christie, Edith Evans, Michael Redgrave, Flora Robson, Maggie Smith
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 110 minutes

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Warner Archive’s is releasing another film in Rod Taylor’s filmography following “The Liquidator”. This film is not as entertaining. It was stated that Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide’s has called this his “best role ever” for Rod Taylor. I agree that is it a very engaging and emotional role and he did nail it but the film itself is where I had issues. The running time dragged for me at almost two hours. Good supporting roles comes from Julie Christie and Maggie Smith. At least this film carried the approval from O’ Casey himself and was based on his autobiography.

Like in the past though, Warner Archive does not disappoint the the newly restored transfer of this film. It is presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1 and in 16X9 widescreen letterbox. The audio in the film is nothing that the Dolby Mono track can’t handle either. Nonetheless, if you are a fan of Taylor’s work and looking for a chance to own this piece of cinema on DVD…you know have the chance. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film.

Synopsis: Young John Cassidy is a driven man. By day, he works manual labor, secretly trains in the hills with a band of revolutionaries eager to take Ireland’s fate into their own hands, joins mates for a pint, or sometimes enjoys the company of a lovely Dublin lass. By night and into the wee hours, he puts pencil to paper and writes of working-class Irish life. He will – he must – be a writer. The coming of age of renowned Irish playwright Sean O’ Casey (Cassidy is a name O’ Casey sometimes used for himself) comes to the screen in a colorful and atmospheric biopic directed by legendary John Ford (who left the film due to illness) and Jack Cardiff. Rod Taylor plays the title character, bringing strength and earthiness to his “best role ever” (Leonard Maltin’s Movie Guide). A talented cast – including Julie Christie and Maggie Smith – adds to the appeal of a film whose script was

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: cassidy, dvd, review, young

DVD Review “The Liquidator”

Directed by: Jack Cardiff
Starring: Rod Taylor, Trevor Howard, Jill St. John, Wilfred Hyde White, David Tomlinson, Akim Tamiroff, Eric Sykes, Gabriella Licudi
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 104 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I don’t think that anyone can deny that Rod Taylor is bad-ass. I just don’t see him working as well as Sean Connery did in this James Band rip-off. The film entertains for the most part but is missing the suave and gadgets to be considered a respectable spy entry. Cool fact, the two women in this film actually ended up being in Bond-related films anyway. Gabrielle Licudi was 1967’s “Casino Royale” and Jill St. John, played Tiffany Case in “Diamonds Are Forever”. I guess you can say they willed the roles.

Warner Archive is responsible for digging this 1965 film out of the vault and bringing it to DVD for the first time ever. It is presented in 16X9 widescreen letterbox with its original aspect ratio of 2.40:1.
The audio included is a Dolby Mono track, which works mostly well but the action scenes are little deprived. The only special features included on this release is just the trailer for the film. If you are looking for a fun action-film that aims to steal a little thunder from 007, then I would definitely check this out.

Synopsis: In an era when Sean Connery, Michael Caine, James Coburn, Dean Martin, Robert Vaughn and more brought varying styles of secret-agent cool to movie screens, along came one of the most unusual spies ever to enter the Top Secret realm of hush-hush, bang-bang and kiss-kiss. Rod Taylor plays Boysie Oakes, Agent L, who enjoys the swinging-London lifestyle perks that come with espionage but would rather not engage in the squeamish business of killing, so he hires a professional hitman for that part of the job. Of course, events soon plunge Oakes into situations that require him to be a hero in spite of himself. Jack Cardiff directs this offbeat caper based on the John Gardner novel, reuniting with the star he guided previously in Young Cassidy. The cast includes two beauties who would soon return to sexy subterfuge: Gabrielle Licudi in 1967’s spoof Casino Royale and Jill St. John, who played Tiffany Case in Diamonds Are Forever.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: dvd, liquidator, review

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