Blu-ray Review “Disneynature’s Chimpanzee”

Directors: Alastair Fothergill, Mark Linfield
Narrated by: Tim Allen
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Video
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 78 minutes

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

I look forward to Disneynature’s films every Earth Day for the last few years. This year’s installment “Chimpanzee” has been my most anticipated. Well, let’s say that I was very impressed with the film. It takes more story approach and really delves into the lives of these Chimps. It feels more like a movie and less like a documentary. Tim Allen’s narration provides a great narrative and gets a bunch of great laughs as well. Disney does not disappoint with its Blu-ray presentation, as always. This film look glorious in its 1080p transfer. It also packs a wallop in its fantastic DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. Fans of the Disneynature series will enjoy this film for sure and I sure hope that they are planning to continue this series.

Film Synopsis: “From Disneynature, the studio that brought you “Earth,” “Oceans,” and “African Cats,” comes “Chimpanzee” — a remarkable story of individual triumph and family bonds. Journey deep into the African forest and meet Oscar, an adorable young chimp with an entertaining approach to life. The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimps who love creating mayhem. His playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Stunning hi-definition images bring you up close and personal as Oscar and his family navigate the complex territory of the forest. It’s an inspiring and life-changing adventure that overflows with courage and charm. And it will capture your heart.”

This release is jam-packed with special features and the following are exclusive only to the Blu-ray release. “On Location: The Making of Chimpanzee” includes a series of short featurettes that tells what in the great lengths that the filmmakers went to tell the story of Oscar and his chimpanzee family. “30 Years in the Making” includes the story of the team of researchers who have been observing chimpanzees in the Ivory Coast for 30 years. “The Heart of the “Chimpanzee”” is a great behind-the-scenes featurettes on how and why the film was made. “Piece of the Puzzle” is an amazing two-hour daily trek from one of the cameramen in order to hike through the forest to get to the chimpanzees. “Don’t Blame the Tool” is a funny feature how chimpanzees’ use rocks as tools to prepare their food. One of the funniest scenes in the movie BTW. “Scar’s Army” looks into the struggles between the film’s two rival chimpanzee groups who share the same forest home. “Camp Invaders” switches focus to the creepy, crawly creatures found at the filmmakers’ forest camp. “Forest of Bees” goes into detail on how the crew spent two days wading through a sea of bees in order to capture 20 seconds of footage. Lastly there is a music video for song rise from McClain Sisters and also a behind-the-scenes look into the shoot.

The following extras are the only extras included on the DVD, but are also on the Blu-ray. “See ‘Chimpanzee,’ Save Chimpanzees” focuses on the conservation program and how Disneynature will make a donation to JGI to protect chimpanzees today and tomorrow with the purchase of this release. The feature also includes an interview with Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace. “Disney’s Friends for Change—This” highlights Disney’s Friends for Change program, that showcases steps that kids and families can take to make a positive impact on the world and the people and animals that live there. “Disney’s Conservation Legacy” look into the conservation efforts that Disney sponsors around the world.

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DVD Review “Revenge: The Complete First Season”

Creator: Mike Kelley
Starring: Emily VanCamp, Madeleine Stowe, Gabriel Mann, Henry Czerny, Ashley Madekwe
Number of discs: 5
MPAA Rating: TV-PG
Distributed by: ABC Studios
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Running Time: 924 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
EXtras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I started watching “Revenge”, I enjoyed it but then I thought to myself how are they going to keep this going.  How long can she really seek revenge?  Well I was very pleasantly surprised with this season and each each episode on the show only get better and better and reveals many new mysteries throughout.  Emily VanCamp is one tough girl, I would definitely not want to cross her (I have a feeling she holds a grudge). Madeleine Stowe really steals the spotlight in this show.  Her portrayal of the high-society Hampton wife was one of the best roles on television.  If you are a fan of this show, you will know my concerns on the topic.  ABC Studios is not one to usually release their shows on Blu-ray (besides “Once Upon a Time”).  I am not sure why they did not in the case, especially since the norm is leaning towards Blu-ray releases and the show is already presented in HD.  The DVD itself does look nice though within its aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and an audio track of Dolby Digital 5.1. Nonetheless Mike Kelley has really developed a very deep and interesting season that I have the feeling will be able to continue for many years to come.

ABC’s “Revenge” takes us through Emily Thorne’s (Emily VanCamp) quest for revenge. She plans to uncover every deep, dark secret for one of the Hampton’s most powerful family, the Graysons.  She finds that beneath the luxurious lifestyle of the Hamptons, lies a dark secret within that family concerning the wrongful arrest and leading death of her father.  As Emily unraveled this twisted tale of passion, suspense, and ultimate redemption, she finds clues about her father and the people responses for his framing.  Emily Thorne sets (Emily VanCamp) her vindictive plot against Victoria Grayson (Madeleine Stowe), the reigning queen of the Hamptons, and everyone else who destroyed her family.  Of course things don’t always go to plan and things her complicated and unravel in the wake of an unexpected love triangle between Emily, the son of her greatest nemesis, and a forgotten face from her past.

If this show isn’t good enough it’s bonus features are also extremely impressive. “Nolan Ross Exposed” is a faux feature, which exposes the truth behind the character Nolan Ross (Gabriel Mann) with sit-down interview footage and reporter Sarah Juarez (Stephanie Maura Sanchez) looks to get answers.  “Roadmap To Revenge” is narrates by Emily VanCamp as she goes through her road to revenge for the show.  “At Home In “The Hamptons”” is a look into the high life with Ashley Madekwe as she plays tour guide into the larger-than-life role in the show.  “Haute Hamptons: Femme Fatale Fashion” takes a look into the styling of the two leading ladies, Emily VanCamp and Madeleine Stowe with Costume Designer Jill Ohanneson.  There are six quite decent deleted scenes and a bunch of great bloopers and outtakes.  There is also an audio commentary on the pilot episode with Creator Mike Kelley and Actress Emily VanCamp.  Lastly there two music videos including Christina Perri’s “Distance” and Angus & Julia Stone’s “For You.”

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CD Review: Order of Nine “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror”

Order of Nine
“Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror”
Nightmare Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Originally formed under the name Templar, the Pennsylvania based band Order of Nine are back with “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror”. The album is the follow up to the bands 2008 release “A Means to Know End” and could be described as 2 parts Type O Negative and 2 parts Dream Theater. Each of the 11 songs contained on the album cover immense ground both musically and lyrically. From virtuous guitar shredding to booming base lines, and haunting vocals that reach down into the very core of one’s soul Order of Nine give their all. The albums opening/title track “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror” sets the tone for the album and lets you know right off the bat just what you are in for. While tracks such as the thickly layered “Dreamspeak” feature elegant piano passages combined with classic guitar shredding. The song “Reign Down” which is featured towards the end of the album was another personal favorite as it had an early Queensryche vibe while still sounding fresh.

Though the band could easily be classified as a progressive metal band their songs don’t follow the often standard 12 minute plus time frame. With most of the albums tracks clocking in at just under 6 mins. Order of Nine does a great job of getting in and out. You won’t have to worry about lengthy solos or overdubbed intros wasting your listening time as “Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror” cuts right to the chase. If you are looking for something to bolster the prog-metal section of your music collection pick up a copy of Order of Nines latest album “Seventh Year of the Broke Mirror”.

Track Listing:
1.) Seventh Year of the Broken Mirror
2.) Words that were Said
3.) Dreamspeak
4.) Spiral Staircase
5.) Changing of the Guard
6.) Innocence
7.) Third Wish
8.) Eye of the Enemy
9.) Twelfth Talisman
10.) Reign Down
11.) Winter’s Call

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CD Review: Fozzy “Sin and Bones”

Fozzy
“Sin and Bones”
Century Media Records
Producer: Rich Ward
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Sin and Bones” is the 5th full length release from the heavy metal band Fozzy. Fronted by WWE super star Chris Jericho and backed by Rich Ward, Frank Fontsere, Paul Di Leo and Billy Grey the group has been releasing albums since 1999. “Sin and Bones” continues the Fozzy tradition of no frills in your face American heavy metal. The album is being released via Century Media Records and features 10 blistering tracks produced by Rich Ward.

Being a big wrestling fan growing up I remember when the band first came out and featured Chris Jericho’s alter-ego Moongoose McQueen. The band has come a long way since then proving that they are a legitimate band and not just something created for television. “Sin and Bones” opens up with the eerie “Spider In My Mouth” which sets the stage for songs like the album’s title track “Sin and Bones” and the trudging Ozzy Osbourne esc. “Shine Forever”. The album features some great playing by the band and the overall production/mixing of the album was very clear and crisp.

Over all not a bad album but not a great album either. “Sin and Bones” at times tries to cover too much musical territory causing Jericho’s vocals to sound strained which at various times gave the performance an uncomfortable feel. I think it’s great when a band tries to venture into different styles and ranges however if not done correctly the result can be devastating. “Sin and Bones” isn’t that far off track but just enough to rock the boat.

Track Listing:
1.) Spider In My Mouth
2.) Sandpaper
3.) Blood Happens
4.) Inside my Head
5.) Sin and Bones
6.) A Passed Life
7.) She’s my Addiction
8.) Shine Forever
9.) Dark Passenger
10.) Storm the Beaches

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CD Review: Close to Home “Momentum”

Close to Home
“Momentum”
Artery Recordings
Producer: Andrew Wade
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

“Momentum” is the 3rd and latest release from the Cincinnati Ohio based band Close to Home. For those unfamiliar with the post-hardcore group consisting of Josh Wells, Andrew DeNeef, JJ Cooper and Travis Hartman the group has been around since 2005 when it was formed by Josh and Justin Wells. Early on in its career the group was dealt a vicious blow when it lost original bassist Brad Andress to cancer in 2006. The band has since rebounded and their newest album “Momentum” is surely the bands strongest effort to date. The album is being released via Artery Records and features 11 in your face tracks produced by Andrew Wade (A Day to Remember)

Energy and intensity is what you find on the latest Close to Home album “Momentum. From start to finish the band keeps its listeners attention through all 11 tracks. From catchy pop styled choruses to gruff screamo vocals it’s hard not to become wrapped up in this album. Tracks such as “Don’t Waste Your Breath”, “Family Ties” which features guest vocals from We Came As Romans Kyle Pavone and Dave Stephens and “Sleepless in Cincinnati” are beautifully crafted works that showcase each of the member’s talents.

When a band switches lead singers it can go one of two ways. Either it works out great or it totally flops. In the case of Andrew DeNeef taking over for Nick Stein it worked perfectly. The band sounds stronger than ever and should be extremely proud of what they have created as the album lush and full of life. If you are a fan of bands such as A Day to Remember, Of Mice of Men and other groups in the post-hardcore genre you will surely want to check out Close to Home’s and their latest release “Momentum”.

Track Listing:
1.) Make it Count
2.) Don’t Waste Your Breath
3.) Pirates Belong at Sea
4.) Hanging Onto Nothing
5.) Family Ties
6.) Backstabbers Need Not Apply
7.) Sleepless in Cincinnati
8.) Young & Stupid
9.) Fake It Til You Make It
10.) Modern Warfare
11.) Nights like Tonight

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Blu-ray Review “Starship Troopers: Invasion”

Directed by: Shinji Aramaki
Starring: Leraldo Anzaldua, Luci Christian, Melissa Davis, Justin Doran, David Matranga
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 89 minutes

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

“Starship Troopers: Invasion” is finally a true sequel to “Starship Troopers”. It took them four films to get it right. This is also the first of hopefully many CG-animated within this franchise. The series is way too ambitious to be done live-action without a very large budget and works very well computer-generated. They were also smart to include plenty of boobs, gore and plenty of wits, which is what made this series great. The story takes a little while to get started and it has it problems but this is what this series needed, some mindless kick-ass action.  “Invasion” also brings back series favorite characters including Carl Jenkins, Carmen Ibanez and of course Johnny Rico, though they are not reprised by their original cast. Casper Van Dien does serve as an executive producer to the film but that is all. Fans of the series should definitely check out this film and will not be disappointed.

From Sony’s official synopsis: “A distant Federation outpost Fort Casey comes under attack by bugs. The team on the fast attack ship Alesia is assigned to help the Starship John A. Warden stationed in Fort Casey evacuate along with the survivors and bring military intelligence safely back to Earth. Carl Jenkins, now ministry of Paranormal Warfare, takes the starship on a clandestine mission before its rendezvous with the Alesia and goes missing in the nebula. Now, the battle-hardened troopers are charged with a rescue mission that may lead to a much more sinister consequence than they ever could have imagined.”

Sony’s Blu-ray release looks fantastic with the CG-animation in its 1080p transfer within its 1.78:1 aspect ratio.  I meanm the film was made with computer, so I always feel that CGI films should look the best on Blu-ray.  The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is extremely explosive and sounds fantastic through the film’s many action sequences.  The special features are also very impressive as well.  There is an audio commentary track from director Shinji Aramaki.  But the real star of the disc is a massive in-depth “The Making of Starship Troopers: Invasion” series of featurettes. The feature is broken up into numerous aspects of the film’s production including Character Design, Motion Capture, Powersuits, Bugs, Ships, Animation, Backgrounds, Compositing, Music and lastly a Gag reel.  I really though these were very informative especially the featurette on the motion capture.  Lastly there is a Blu-ray exclusive extra for the conceptual art gallery.

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Blu-ray Review “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax”

Directed by: Chris Renaud, Kyle Balda
Starring: Danny DeVito, Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Ed Helms, Rob Riggle, Betty White, Jenny Slate
Distributed by: Universal Pictures
Release Date: August 7, 2012
MPAA Rating: PG
Running Time: 87 minutes

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

Dr. Seuss has had a bumpy road on the big screen over the years. I really enjoyed “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with Jim Carrey. Though Mike Myers’ turn as “The Cat in the Hat” was barely watchable. Similar to this film, “Horton Hears a Who” was full CGI and was decent but nothing special. “The Lorax” on the other hand is very enjoyable and perfect for kids to enjoy. I originally screened the film in theaters in 3D and I really did enjoy that experience, though watching it on 2D on Blu-ray was still a decent. I thought that this film looks “pretty” in theaters but damn…does it look even better on Blu-ray.

The voice cast is also very impressive. Danny DeVito seems absolutely perfect for the role of The Lorax and easily nails it. Zac Efron and Taylor Swift will both be a big draw to the film with the tweens. Ed Helms is basically the main character besides The Lorax or at least for the first half and he is fun but also easily unlikable. Rob Riggle plays a great baddie and get a lot of laughs.

The 1080p transfer really shines well and I don’t know how but looks so much better than my theatrical experience. Universal delivers a near-perfect video presentation within its original aspect ratio of 1:85.1. The colors were extremely sharp and just overall very pleasant to look at. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track is also very impressive with the score and just overall fun. Easily one of the best audio tracks, I have experiences this entire year! This release also comes in a Blu-ray combo pack covering all plays you can watch this film. It comes with a Blu-ray disc, a DVD disc, a digital copy disc and also an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy. Can’t ask for me in that department.

The special features are impressive as well like the film. The directors, Chris Renaud and Kyle Balda deliver one-hell of an extensive audio commentary, definitely won’t keep kids interest though and definitely for the adults. There are three new mini-movies, including “Wagon Ho!”, “Forces of Nature” and “Serenade”. “Making of Mini-Movies” looks behind the scenes on these three shorts. There is one short single extended scene, nothing special here. “O-Hare TV” is the ability to watch “The Lorax” with commercial interruptions advertising O’Hare products. I think this is really cute and fun feature. “Expedition of Truffula Valley” is an interactive tour of Thneedville and the Valley. “Seuss to Screen” is a very short, actually too short look at adapting “The Lorax” from the book to the big screen. There are three kids games called “Once-ler’s Wagon,” “Get Out of Town” and “Truffula Run.” They are all very cute. Lastly there is a sing-along for the song “Let it Grow”.

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DVD Review “The Heathcliff and Dingbat Show”

Starring: Mel Blanc, Frank Welker
Distributed by: Warner Archive
Rating: Not Rated
13 Episodes
Running Time: 312 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I grew up watching “Heathcliff”.  The first season of the show back in 1980 was called “Heathcliff and Dingbat”, which ran for 13 episodes.  It was really run revisiting the show, which is still sharp and funny.  Plus, who doesn’t love to listen to Mel Blanc, the man of 1,000 voices, do what he does best and given Heathcliff his trademark laugh.  Warner Archive is behind this great DVD release.  Once again they have delivered a great classic 80’s cartoon to DVD for the first time ever!  I hold this series very close since I grew up on it.  I am more excited to now be able to share my childhood series with my own daughter now.

For a show that is over 30 years old, it still looks sharp.  The colors aren’t as crisp as they could be sure this isn’t a HD Blu-ray release, so for what it is worth it looks great.  The show is presented in 4X3 full frame within its originial aspect ratio of 1.37:1.  The audio included on this release is an Dolby Mono track. After watching 13 episodes, I was craving for more.  I hope that Warner Archive is considering to release the following seasons of this show as well, like “Heathcliff and Marmaduke”.  This is a must for all fans of classic animation or Saturday morning cartoons.

Premise: The sassiest, frassiest, classiest cat, Heathcliff, jumps from the comic strip to the TV screen in the first of his animated adaptations and is joined by the silliest trio of monsters ever seen, the aptly named Dingbat and the Creeps. The feline half of the show is pure classic Heathcliff high jinks, with the highfalutin’ low-livin’ tomcat living the life while romancing Sonja, avoiding the dog-catcher and tormenting Spike. And as an added soupcon of catnip, Heathcliff is voiced by the legendary man of 1,000 voices, Mel Blanc! Meanwhile, a dog heads up the second half, but this is no common canine. Dingbat is a vampire dog, who with fellow Creeps the fat skeleton Sparerib and teamleader Nobody, a talking jack-o-lantern, makes up the strangest service biz ever seen, Odd Jobs, Inc. So grab a seat and get ready for the funniest antics this side of alleyway and graveyard in this complete 2-Disc, 13-Episode collection.

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Film Review “Hit and Run”

Starring: Dax Shepard, Kristin Bell and Bradley Cooper
Directed by: Dax Shepard and David Palmer
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hr 40 mins
Open Road Films

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Charlie Bronson (Shepard) and his girlfriend, Annie, (Bell) lie in bed, making the kind of promises only people in love make. A loud car outside alerts them that they have company. The driver is Randy (Tom Arnold). A U.S. Marshal, Randy can best be described as “clutzy.” One more spilled coffee or accidental discharge of his weapon and he’s going to lose his gig guarding people in the Witness Protection Program. What? You didn’t think Charlie Bronson was his real name, did you?

A collection of car chases and occasionally hilarious one-liners, “Hit and Run” is a promising sophomore project for star Shepard, who not only stars and co-directs but also wrote the script. As a former member of a bank robbery gang who turned state’s evidence for love, Shepard is an appealing lead. He gives a solid performance, as does Bell. Cooper, who apparently had his hair done at the same salon as the Simpson’s Sideshow Bob, has fun in a role much smaller than advertised. Think of him as Eddie Murphy in “Best Defense” – a strategic guest star. The always underappreciated Tom Arnold steals most of his scenes. Why he’s never had a bigger career has always amazed me. The man is funny. As are the various cameo performers, including Kristin Chenowith, David Koechner, Justin Bateman, Sean Hayes and Beau Bridges.

Shepard’s script runs the gambit from maudlin to outrageous. Some of the dialogue is pretty forgettable but a few comments hit dead center on the funny bone. The direction is fine though I did get tired of seeing cars doing donuts in parking lots over and over and over again. Kudos to whoever put the soundtrack together. A great assortment of Lou Rawls, Kool and the Gang, the Dazz Band and, if my ears didn’t betray me, a quick snippet of instrumental music from “Rocky.”

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DVD Review “Gene Roddenberry’s The Lieutenant: The Complete Series”

Created by: Gene Roddenberry
Starring: Gary Lockwood, Robert Vaughn, James Gregory, Richard Anderson
Distributed by: Warner Archive
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Release Date: August 14, 2012
8 Discs / 29 Episdoes
Running Time: 1555 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am a big fan of Gene Roddenberry’s work for “Star Trek” but I have to admit I was not aware of this fantastic series. This complete series is split into a Part 1 and Part 2 DVD sets. The show follows a young Marine Corp lieutenant (Gary Lockwood) as he struggles to carry out his duties while under the guidance of a by-the-book captain (Robert Vaughn) during cold war peacetime. The show only last 29 episodes airing between 1963-1963, which is quite sad since it was a really great series. Once I got started watching I complete all 29 episodes in just two days, my eye hurt but I was locked in. Thanks to WB Archive, who beautifully restored this series and finally we are able to own Roddenberry’s pre-Star Trek series on DVD for the first time!  Highly recommended.

The TV series looks sharp on DVD in black and white 4X3 full frame presentation and its original aspect ratio of 1.37:1.  The audio included on the DVD is the original Dolby Mono track, which sounds great as well.  Part 1 of the complete series includes 16-episodes spread out over a 4-disc collection.  Richard Donner (“Superman”, “Lethal Weapon”) even lended his early directing skills to the series.  “Star Trek” fans keep an ear out since Roddenberry naming Lockwood’s character William Tiberius Rice. Also included are re-occuring roles from TV legend’s James Gregory and Richard Anderson.  Part 2 of the complete series includes the remaining 13-episodes also spread out over a 4-disc collection.  The second half of the season is extremely jam-packed with guest stars including Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, Woody Strode.  There is also a bunch of future “Star Trek” alums like Leonard Nimoy, Majel Barrett, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and Ricardo Montalban. There is even a great bonus episode “To Kill aMan”, the feature film version of the series’ final episode, unseen since its original international theatrical release in 1964!  This is a real treat sure to please any fan of Roddenbery.

Part 1: A man of war. A time of fragile peace. This is the set-up for Gene Roddenberry’s The Lieutenant, the tale of a brash and charming Marine lieutenant (2001: A Space Odyssey’s Gary Lockwood) serving at Camp Pendleton under a steely, button-down captain (The Man from U.N.C.L.E.’s Robert Vaughn). The Lieutenant is packed full of themes, tropes, and quirks that Roddenberry would further explore in his next series, Star Trek. Lockwood’s William Tiberius Rice (yes, Tiberius!) is every bit the charming devil, but that’s just the glossy veneer that covers his firm commitment to Corps and Country. While Vaughn’s Captain Rambridge has the reasoning and the seasoning to keeps Rice in line when his passions overflow. TV greats James Gregory (Barney Miller) and Richard Anderson (The Six Million Dollar Man) enjoy recurring roles and a young Richard Donner (Superman, Lethal Weapon) directs many an episode. 16-Episodes, 4-Disc Collection.

Part 2: Lt. Rice and Capt. Rambridge continue their mission to train new recruits and explore the nature of honor and duty in this 4-Disc, 13-Episode Collection. The simmering background of the brewing conflict in Asia heats up and takes center stage as the series builds up to its ultimate away mission, and Lt. Rice finds himself serving as a military advisor in Vietnam. Rice’s other missions include investigating film, fame, race relations, faith and loyalty with the aid of hi-caliber guests like Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, Woody Strode and future Trek alums Leonard Nimoy, Majel Barrett, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and Ricardo Montalban. Rarely seen since its original airing, The Lieutenant proves to be an unheralded harbinger of TV yet-to-come, “light years” ahead of its time. Special Bonus: To Kill a Man – the feature film version of the series’ final episode, unseen since its original international theatrical release in 1964!

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Blu-ray Review “Holy Flying Circus”

Directed by: Owen Harris
Starring: Darren Boyd, Charles Edwards, Steve Punt, Rufus Jones, Tom Fisher,
Phil Nichol
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Acorn Media
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Running Time: 90 minutes

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

When it comes to anything Monty Python, I am in like flint. This docudrama focuses on a few subjects that Python has been known best for censorship And scandals. I was curious to see how this film would work without any actualy members of the group but it didn’t disappoint at all. It was funny and completely zany in perfect Python traditions. It showcases animation sequences, cross dressing, fantasy sequences and just everything else that made Python work at Python. It is a fantastic tribute to the Monty Python troop. Any true fan of Monty Python should not miss out on this release for sure

If you are wondering what this film is, it is not a new Monty Python film. It is a “Pythonesque” docudrama which reimagines the controversy surrounding Monty Python’s 1979 film, “Life of Brian”, as it was met with widespread outcry and accusations of blasphemy. Michael Palin (played by Charles Edwards) and John Cleese (played by Darren Boyd) plan to appear in a BBC talk show about “Life of Brian” with a Church of England bishop and a staunchly Catholic broadcaster. The debate which ended up putting the Pythons in their most absurd role yet: the voice of reason.

“Holy Flying Circus” comes in a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. It’s video transfer is only presented in 1080i, though it looks decent. The audio track included is also a little tame with its 2.0 stereo PCM track but work with what is given in the film. The special features on the release are nothing special. There is a brief but interesting “Making of the Holy Flying Circus” phonotrope. There are a three deleted scenes and an outtake reel, worth checking out if you enjoyed the film for sure. Lastly there are production stills included.

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Blu-ray Review “Zack Parker’s Scalene”

Directed by: Zack Parker
Starring: Margo Martindale, Hanna Hall, Adam Scarimbolo
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Breaking Glass Pictures
Release Date: July 31, 2012
Running Time: 97 minutes

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

“Scalene” is one of those hidden gems that you find once a year. The film is very unique and original. If you are looking for a very interesting psychological thriller that will having you discussing the film long after it has ended…then this is your film. The film is also jam packed with very strong performances. Margo Martindale is just so amazing in this film, who also recently won an Emmy for her work on “Justified”. Hanna Hall also branches out and gets to shine, some might know her work from playing Young Jenny in “Forrest Gump” and from “Rob Zombie’s Halloween”. I would also like to point about the amazing job by Zack Parker, who definitely aims to add an aspect of Hitchcock in his approach. I look forward to his future efforts. Overall, this film was a real surprise and should definitely not be missed.

The story follows around around a young man named Jacob (Scarimbolo) and his mother (Martindale). Jacob was became mental disabled at age of 12 due to experimenting with drugs resulting in severe brain damage and leaving him in a childlike stage and unable to speak. His mother hires a young college student named Paige (Hall) in order to help with Jacob. Told from three points-of-view revolving around our characters and starting at the end of the story, the story revolves around rape and a mother’s subsequent revenge.

The Blu-ray presentation both looks and sounds great, which is good for the low-budget film.  Breaking Glass films definitely delivered a great release here! Hopefully this will give them the jump to release more films on Blu-ray. The special features are very impressive even though there is basically only one really extra. “PERCEIVING REALITY: The Making of SCALENE” is a very long and in-depth 3.5 hour featurette on the production. It is exclusive to the Blu-ray release and is a must watch if you enjoyed the film. Perfect companion to this great film. There is also a short featurette from Dances With Films featuring footage from the World Premiere, Q&A and Awards Ceremony. Lastly there is a two trailers including the teaser and theatrical on the disc.

 

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, parkers, review, scalene, zack

Blu-ray Review “The Walking Dead: The Complete Second Season”

Starring: Andrew Lincoln, Sarah Wayne Callies, Jon Bernthal, Laurie Holden, Jeffrey DeMunn
Number of discs: 4
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Anchor Bay
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Running Time: 578 minutes

Season Two: 4.5 out of 5 stars
EXtras: 5 out of 5 stars

Season two of “The Walking Dead” took the hit AMC original series to a whole new level. This season was a real focus on human survival and even though based around a zombie invasion it is really show survivalist story at its core. This show is easily one of the best shows on television and this release is easily a must-own Blu-ray. I am usually not a big proprietor of re-watching a television series but I can see myself easily revisiting this show very often. This season trumps every single aspect of the first season and really develops the story for each character throughout. It was even as brave to kill off three of the series main cast as well. This is easily one of my favorite Blu-ray releases this year. Hardcore fans of the show should pick-up the limited edition of this season that comes in a super cool screwdriver zombie case, not for the squeamish.

“The Walking Dead: The Complete Second Season” looks and sounds absolutely amazing on Blu-ray. It comes with a perfect 1080p transfer of each episode presented in the original broadcast 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The sound on this release is really the star with its stunning Dolby TrueHD 7.1 audio track. It really creates the atmosphere for the show and it’s action. The season also comes with a shit load of special features. I mean a shit load. There is commentary tracks spread across all four discs, as well as numerous deleted scenes, over 10 never-before-seen featurettes and webisodes by the great Greg Nicotero.

The audio commentaries appear on the 6 of the 12 episodes this season. The first is “What Lies Ahead” with Executive Producer Glen Mazzara, Executive Producer Gale Anne Hurd, Executive Producer/Writer Robert Kirkman, and Executive Producer David Alpert. “Pretty Much Dead Already” with Executive Producer Glen Mazzara, Producer Scott M. Glimple, Director Michelle Maclaren, and Editor Julius Ramsay. “Nebraska” features Executive Producer Glen Mazzara, Co-Executive Producer Evan Riley, and Actors Scott Wilson and Steven Yeun. “Judge, Jury, Executioner” includes Executive Producer Glen Mazzara, Co-Executive Producer/Special Effects Make-Up Artist/Director Greg Nicotero, Writer Angela Kang, and Actor Laurie Holden. “Beside the Dying Fire” is one of my favorites with Executive Producer/Writer Glen Mazzara, Director Ernest Dickerson, Co-Executive Producer/Special Effects Make-Up Artist Greg Nicotero, Executive Producer/Writer Robert Kirkman, and Actor Norman Reedus. I can honestly say that all these commentary are NOT TO MISSED.

There are 11 featurette covering all aspects of the show’s season. They are all a perfect length of 3-8 minutes. The first is “All the Guts Inside” which looks into the creation of the scene where the characters are ripping into a zombie’s stomach. “Live or Let Die” features cast and crew chatting about season two and its differences between the comic book and the show. “The Meat of the Music” looks into the series’ music and the work of composer Bear McCreary. “Fire on Set” focuses on the season’s final episode. “The Ink is Alive” looks deeper into the similarities and differences between comics and series. “The Sound of the Effects” focuses on the impact of the sound effects to the series. “In the Dead Water” looks into the “well zombie” sequence. “You Could Make a Killing” focuses on Media Mikes’ buddy Greg Nicotero and his contributions to the series. “She Will Fight” focuses on Andrea’s character arc this season. “The Cast on Season 2” is a wrap-up of the season with the cast discuss the show. “Extras Wardrobe” features the work of Costume Designer Eulyn Womble.

Also includes are the six internet webisodes, which follow the initial moments following the zombie outbreak. They are available with optional audio commentary with Writer/Director Greg Nicotero. There are also about 30 minutes of deleted scenes including “What Lies Ahead;” “Save the Last One;” “Secrets;” “Pretty Much Dead Already;” “Nebraska;” “Judge, Jury, Executioner;” “Better Angels;” and “Beside the Dying Fire.” They are also available with optional audio commentary with Executive Producer Glen Mazzara. I mean can you ask for anything else? This season release has got it all. I commend Anchor Bay on not cashing in for this release and just dumping the episodes on Blu-ray.  They seems to actually want to  give the fans what they want and have put a lot of time and love into this Blu-ray.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, complete, dead, review, season, walking, ...

Film 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

Our Score: 4 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.

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, review, victim

Blu-ray Review “Stallone Three-Film Collector’s Set (Rambo: First Blood / Cop Land / Lock Up)”

Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Peter Berg, Harvey Keitel, Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro
Number of discs: 3
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lionsgate
Release Date: August 14, 2012
Running Time: 327 minutes

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

With Stallone being a hot topic with “The Expendables 2” in theaters, Lionsgate Home Entertainment is bundling together three films from the iconic action star’s career, including: “Rambo: First Blood (1982)”, “Lock Up (1989)” and “Cop Land: The Director’s Cut (1997)”.  As much as I love Rambo, I would really have another great 80’s Stallone film like “Over the Top” in its place here.  Also as great of a film, “Cop Land” is I also would have like to see them include only 80’s Stallone.  Nonetheless at least the Director’s Cut of the film is included.  If you are looking for a dose of Stallone to get you psyched for “The Expendables 2”, you should definitely check out this release…especially for it’s low cost.  Now Lionsgate…one question, where is volume two?

“Cop Land” shows Sylvester Stallone in a different light in this edgy crime thriller sharing the screen with all-star cast – including Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel and Ray Liotta. Stallone plays Freddy Heflin, the sheriff of a small and seemingly peaceful town until he uncovers a massive, deadly conspiracy among these local residents and is forced to make a dangerous choice between protecting his friends and upholding the law.  We all know that one of Stallone’s best roles is John Rambo. In “First Blood”, he stars as the ex-Green Beret haunted by memories of Vietnam. When Rambo becomes the target of a massive manhunt, he must use all his combat skills and weapons training to stay alive and outwit his pursuers.  “Lock Up” stars Stallone as Frank Leone as he enters Gateway Prison, a nightmare jail where every minute is hard time. Leone goes head-to-head with the warden, who will stop at nothing to get him, in order to survive.

The three-disc package presents each title in its original aspect ratio – 2.39:1 for “First Blood” and 1.85:1 for “Lock Up” and “Cop Land”. Each title also comes packed with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and Dolby Digital 5.1 EX tracks.  Believe it or not I feel that “First Blood” and “Lock Up” are a tie for the film that looks the best.  Funny how they are also older than 1997’s “Cop Land”.  Nonetheless the presentations are impressive all around.  “Cop Land” steals the best audio track of the pack, followed by “First Blood” in a close second and “Lock Up” in third.

The special features are jam packed with goodies.  “First Blood” features two audio commentary tracks from Stallone and novelist David Morrell.  There is a featurette called “Drawing First Blood”, is an impressive making-of documentary running just over 20 minutes. There are about 5 minutes  of deleted scenes including the controversial alternate ending.  Lastly there is a trivia track including.  With “Lock Up” there is a brief but decent making-of featurett. “Sylvester Stallone Profile” features interviews with Stallone in addition to behind the scenes footage of the cast and crew.  There is a behind-the-scenes featurette with interviews with the cast within a collection of raw clips.  Lastly there is a theatrical trailer included.  Lastly “Cop Land”  includes a great commentary track with writer/director James Mangold, producer Cathy Konrad, and actors Sylvester Stallone & Robert Patrick.  There are two short deleted scenes with optional commentary by Mangold, Stallone and Konrad.  “Cop Land: The Making of an Urban Western” is a basic behind-the-scenes featurette, topping off at almost 15 minutes.  Lastly there is a short “Storyboard Comparison” piece, running under 2 minutes.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: blood, bluray, collectors, cop, land, lock, ...
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