GWAR Releases Video For Acoustic Version of “F*** This Place”

New EP “The Disc With No Name” Out May 28th

GWAR’s latest musical masterpiece “The Disc With No Name” is set for release on May 28th via Pit Records. This four song EP finds GWAR exploring their sensitive side (and yours if you aren’t careful) with acoustic versions of four well-known numbers from the band’s storied career as legitimate gods of shock rock. The picture disc is sold out at GWAR.net but limited quantities will be available at indie retail stores in the US starting on May 28th.  

Here’s a link to find one near you: https://recordstoreday.com/UPC/619011964500 

Today, your Lords and Masters are as thrilled as David Crosby scoring an eight-ball to unveil a new epic video for the acoustic version of “Fuck This Place.”  Watch the video HERE. Guitarist Pustulus Maximus confessed, “I forgot to pay my electric bill so we were forced to rehearse acoustically and this is the result. The GWAR, the bad, and the ugly,”  

Singer Blóthar the Berserker had a somewhat more confusing take; “This isn’t what I thought they meant by ‘unplugged.’ I haven’t been able to muster a turd for years.”  

Stay tuned for more GWAR news including info on their forthcoming “Ragnarok” rye whiskey, “Bud of Gods” CBD and touring plans.

“The Disc With No Name”

Tracklisting:
Side A:

1.Fuck This Place (Acoustic)

2.Gonna Kill You (Acoustic)

Side B:

1.I’ll Be Your Monster (Acoustic)

2.The Road Behind (Acoustic)

 

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Filed Under: Music, Music Headlines Tagged With: acoustic, gwar, place, releases, version, video, ...

IN ADVANCE OF UPCOMING POKÉMON DAY CONCERT, POST MALONE RELEASES “ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU – POKÉMON 25 VERSION”

LISTEN HERE

In anticipation of the Pokémon Day 25th anniversary celebration and virtual concert on Saturday, February 27th, Post Malone has released a cover of Hootie and the Blowfish’s smash 1995 hit “Only Wanna Be with You” – appropriately dubbed the “Pokémon 25 Version”. The original record was last on the Billboard charts 25 years ago and Post recorded his version to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of Pokémon. The song will be included as part of Post’s headlining appearance in the Pokémon Day virtual concert which begins promptly at 7:00 p.m. EST / 4:00 p.m. PST on February 27 and can be viewed for free on the official Pokémon YouTube and Twitch channels, and on Pokémon’s 25th anniversary website.

Listen to “Only Wanna Be with You – Pokémon 25 Version” HERE

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LAMB OF GOD Premieres Video for “Ghost Shaped People” from Deluxe Version of Critically Acclaimed Self-Titled

Lamb Of God (Deluxe Version), Available March 26 via Epic, to Include Bonus Tracks, Live Album and Live DVD
Pre-Orders Available Now

LAMB OF GOD has premiered a video for the single “Ghost Shape People,” a track from the upcoming Lamb Of God (Deluxe Version). 

The video for “Ghost Shaped People” is available today on YouTube and the band’s website at http://lamb-of-god.com.  

Directed by Truman Kewley and Eddie Perez, “Ghost Shaped People,” hauntingly shows a man’s journey into the afterlife juxtaposed with a crushing live performance. 

The three-disc deluxe edition of last year’s critically acclaimed self-titled album will feature the full critically- acclaimed Lamb Of God record with two bonus tracks and a live version of the album, along with a DVD performance of Lamb Of God on March 26 via Epic Records. 

“This album, and in particular, this deluxe edition is something I’m incredibly proud of,” guitarist Willie Adler previously said. “Throughout the process of writing, recording, and the subsequent filming of the live stream, I knew we were creating much more than a collection of songs. Much more than a simple streamed performance. This was focused energy. Energy that, to me, is very tangible. And now, more than ever, in an era where human interaction is so limited, art…..be it music, visual, or otherwise, is a human connection point. And we need as much of that as possible! I hope everyone enjoys this deluxe edition as much as we enjoyed creating it. Thank you.” 

Pre-orders for the set are available now. The live CD and DVD portion of the deluxe version features the first of LAMB OF GOD‘s two ultra-successful live stream events from September 2020, in which the band performed their critically acclaimed, self-titled album Lamb Of God in full, plus an encore of four songs including “Ruin,” “Contractor,” “512,” and the debut live performance of “The Death Of Us,” a new song the band wrote and recorded in quarantine for the Bill & Ted Face The Music movie and soundtrack. The DVD includes a new director’s cut with bonus material. Watch the trailer for the deluxe package now at https://youtu.be/ihoFtYAfgEc. Digital copies will contain only Disc 1 and Disc 2. A separate vinyl edition of Lamb Of God – Live From Richmond, VA will also be available. 

Originally, released June 19 of last year, LAMB OF GOD’s first new album in five years was met with universal acclaim – not only among major rock journalists, but with all strata of metal fans around the world.  

But critics, media and the industry aside, perhaps the most telling statistic is the year-end US Metal Radio chart, where the new album dominated at #1 by a massive margin (over 2,000 more spins than the album at #2). Lamb Of God spent nine weeks in the #1 spot and never left the top 10 since debuting on the chart in February. Metal Radio is the lifeblood of the US metal world, largely staffed by college students and regional tastemakers, playing the music that they know their local metal fans want to hear.  

LAMB OF GOD’s self- titled album reached the coveted #1 spot on Consequence of Sound’s Top 30 Metal + Hard Rock Albums of 2020, stating, “Along with bringing in the New Wave of American Heavy Metal, LAMB OF GOD have been one of music’s most important acts over the past 20 years. From their phenomenal instrumentation to the potency of their sociopolitical lyricism, LAMB OF GOD remain titans of the genre, continuing to craft remarkable works of thrilling and captivating adrenaline… also proves to be a profound work of heavy metal… perhaps the most important metal album of 2020. It’s not only the album of LAMB OF GOD’s career, but the heavy album of the year.” 

At iTunes, LAMB OF GOD has landed at number one on the Overall, Rock and Metal iTunes album chart upon release. LAMB OF GOD eagerly awaits their return to the road to support Lamb of God. Their North American co-headline tour with Megadeth and support from Trivium and In Flames has been rescheduled to begin in July 2021 and their headline tour in the UK and co-headline tour with Kreator in Europe will take place in November and December 2021. Tickets for both tours are on-sale at lamb-of-god.com/tour.  

“LAMB OF GOD deliver the album of their career with self-titled effort…This album isn’t just an awesome release from LAMB OF GOD, but a perfect record to unite metalheads as one.” – Consequence of Sound 

“There is a world-weary pessimism that permeates right to the bones of LAMB OF GOD’s breathtaking eight LP.” – Kerrang! 

“The band has been vocal about the good place it’s in right now, and it shows in these songs.” – Metal Injection “

LAMB OF GOD know, after all, that their true essence is a brutish machismo and that they are a vehicle for total catharsis.” – Rolling Stone 

“This is a record that’s the most authentic version of the band LAMB OF GOD want to be.” – NME  

“The Virginian metal stalwarts’ self-titled album – their first release with Adler’s full-time replacement Art Cruz – boasts all the neck-snapping technical riffage and burly roars we’ve come to love,” -Revolver’s 25 Best Albums of 2020. 

LAMB OF GOD is:

D. Randall Blythe – Vocals 

Mark Morton – Guitar 

Willie Adler – Guitar 

John Campbell – Bass 

Art Cruz – Drums 

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BAD RELIGION SHARE “LOSE YOUR HEAD (DEMO VERSION)”

“Lose Your Head” is a fan favorite from Bad Religion’s critically acclaimed 2019 album Age of Unreason.  Today, the band is releasing a demo version of the song, with a faster tempo and alternate lyrics, that provides a unique glimpse into the band’s creative process. 

Co-songwriters Brett Gurewitz and Greg Graffin developed this version of the song at Gurewitz’ home studio in Pasadena California.  When producer Carlos de la Garza was brought on board, he suggested trying a slower version.  The band liked both versions equally so, when they entered Sunset Sound to record Age of Unreason, they decided to work on basic tracks for both and choose later.  It was a close call but ultimately the band chose the slow version which is the one they completed.

This demo version is the result of taking previously unreleased rhythm tracks from the Sunset Sound sessions and combining them with the original home demo recordings to bring the fast version of the song to life. 

Longtime fans will enjoy this rare look into the evolution of a Bad Religion song.

LISTEN TO “LOSE YOUR HEAD (DEMO VERSION)”

ABOUT BAD RELIGION
Bad Religion, formed in 1980 in the suburbs of Los Angeles, has become synonymous with intelligent and provocative West Coast punk rock and are considered one of the most influential and important bands in the genre. Bad Religion has continually pushed social boundaries and questioned authority and beliefs armed only with propulsive guitars, charging drumbeats, thoughtful lyrics and an undying will to inspire and provoke anyone who will listen.

The band’s critically acclaimed 17th studio album Age of Unreason offers a fiery and intensely relevant musical response to the times, with songs that address a myriad of socio-political maladies, including conspiracy theories, racist rallies, Trump’s election, the erosion of the middle class, alternative facts and more. There is a stylistic consistency to the band’s iconic and influential sound – hard fast beats, big hooks and rousing choruses, yet each new song remains distinctive, utilizing composition, melody and lyrics to deliver a unique narrative consistent with the band’s longstanding humanist worldview.

Last month, Bad Religionreleased their autobiography, DO WHAT YOU WANT: The Story of Bad Religion, written with their full cooperation and support. It reveals the ups and downs of the band’s 40-year career, from their beginnings as teenagers experimenting in a San Fernando Valley garage dubbed “The Hell Hole” to headlining major music festivals around the world. The book predominantly features the four principal voices of Bad Religion in a hybrid oral history/narrative format: Greg Graffin, Brett Gurewitz, Jay Bentley, and Brian Baker. It also includes rare photos and never-before-seen material from their archives.

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Heavy Metal Legend DEE SNIDER Reveals Music Video for Live Version of “I Am The Hurricane”

Headbang at Home with the “I Am The Hurricane” Live Music Video HERE

New Live Album & DVD/Blu-Ray, For The Love of Metal Live,
out July 31, 2020 via Napalm Records | Pre-Order HERE

Experience electrifying DEE SNIDER concert moments and more from your home!
Legendary heavy metal frontman, actor and radio personality DEE SNIDER recently announced the July 31, 2020 release of For The Love Of Metal Live, a larger than life live album and DVD/Blu-Ray set available via Napalm Records.

Music lovers around the world are craving the return of live concert experiences, and For The Love Of Metal Live isjust the thing to keep live music where it belongs – with the fans! Combined behind-the-scenes footage, various detailed interview clips, insightful personal commentary and electrifying live performances make this release an entertaining experience that every heavy metal fan needs in their collection.

Today, DEE SNIDER has revealed a new live video cut from For The Love Of Metal Live – featuring his energetic performance of “I Am The Hurricane”! The seductive, metallic first notes of the track combine with ominous guitar-driven atmosphere as DEE SNIDER dominates the powerful lyrics of the track – denying opposition at his every turn and leaving doubters in his wake. The track takes on a whole new level of confidence in its live setting, as it transforms into an even more heartfelt rallying cry to all to rise above hostility.

DEE SNIDER says about “I Am The Hurricane” Live:
“If there is ever a repeated message in my songs it’s this: Stand up, fight back, don’t take any sh*t from anybody, and f*ck anybody who gets in your way or tries to put you down. It’s a message that constantly needs to be reinforced in us all, myself included. “I Am the Hurricane” is that reinforcement!”
Watch the For The Love Of Metal Live version of 
“I Am The Hurricane” HERE
The For The Love Of Metal Live DVD/Blu-Ray and accompanying live album (available in various formats, see below) features audio captured from several DEE SNIDER festival performances worldwide – from the United States to Europe, Australia and beyond. In addition to tracks from Snider’s solo catalog like “I Am The Hurricane” and “For The Love Of Metal”, Twisted Sister favorites such as “I Wanna Rock” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It”, and even a cover of AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell”, the audio portion of For The Love Of Metal Live also features a brand new original studio track, “Prove Me Wrong” – a thrashing, confident metal hit.

Check out the recently released lyric video for “Prove Me Wrong” HERE.
Select audio editions and the DVD/Blu-Ray also feature additional bonus live material and personal footage, with the DVD/Blu-Ray including even more special bonus interview content. The interviews feature Snider himself discussing his famed PMRC hearing, opening for Motörhead and more. DEE SNIDER fanatics won’t want to miss For The Love Of Metal Live!
Pre-Order For The Love Of Metal Live HERE 
DEE SNIDER says about the state of live music in 2020:

“While live entertainment has been curtailed for now, we cannot let the spirit of live entertainment die within us. Any music I’ve ever loved and listened to, I always imagine what it would be like live. When I was young and couldn’t go to shows, all I had was what I thought the bands would be like live. We must keep our desire to see and hear the great new music out there in concert, because that’s its true habitat.  Bands on stage with fans cheering them on in the audience is the way the rock gods intended it to be.”

For The Love Of Metal Live Track Listings:

Digital Album
1. Lies Are a Business                              
2. Tomorrow’s No Concern                              
3. You Can’t Stop Rock ’N’ Roll               
4. The Beast                                                     
5. American Made                                            
6. Under the Blade                                          
7. The Kids Are Back                                         
8. Become the Storm                             
9. We’re Not Gonna Take It                             
10. I Am the Hurricane                                     
11. Burn In Hell                                                 
12. I Wanna Rock                                                       
13. For the Love of Metal                                 
14. Highway To Hell                                         
15. Ready to Fall                                              
16. The Fire Still Burns                            
17. Roll Over You                                              
18. Prove Me Wrong   
 
CD
1. Lies Are A Business
2. Tomorrow’s No Concern
3. You Can’t Stop Rock ‘N’ Roll
4. The Beast Live
5. American Made
6. Under The Blade
7. The Kids Are Back
8. Become The Storm
9. We’re Not Gonna Take It
10. I Am The Hurricane
11. Burn In Hell
12. I Wanna Rock Live
13. For The Love Of Metal
14. Highway To Hell
15. Prove Me Wrong
 
DVD/Blu-Ray
1. Lies Are A Business
2. Pain of Traveling (Interview)
3. Tomorrow’s No Concern
4. You Can’t Stop Rock ‘N’ Roll
5. New Record (Interview)
6. The Beast
7. American Made
8. Under The Blade
9. Song Writing (Interview)
10. The Kids Are Back Live
11. Become The Storm
12. We’re Not Gonna Take It
13. WNGTI (Interview)
14. I Am The Hurricane
15. Burn In Hell Live
16. Rock of Ages (Interview)
17. I Wanna Rock
18. For The Love Of Metal
19. AC/DC (Interview)
20. Highway To Hell
21. Credits
22. Ready To Fall (Bonus Track)
23. The Fire Still Burns (Bonus Track)
24. Roll Over You (Bonus Track)
25. Suzette (Interview)
26. Hearing (Interview)
27. Strangeland (Interview)
28. Lemmy (Interview)
 
For The Love Of Metal Live will be available in the following formats:
-Deluxe Earbook Edition: CD, Bonus CD, DVD, Blu-Ray & 7″ Single with Lyric etching – Limited to 500 copies worldwide
-Shirt & Deluxe Earbook Edition Bundle – USA Napalm Webstore Only
-8 Page Digipack with Sleeve (CD, DVD, Blu Ray)
-8 Page Digipack with Sleeve (CD, DVD, Blu Ray) & Shirt Bundle
-2LP Black Gatefold & DVD
-2LP Black Gatefold & DVD & Shirt Bundle – USA Napalm Webstore Only
-2LP Silver Gatefold & DVD – Limited to 200 copies worldwide (Napalm Webstores Only)
-2LP Silver Gatefold & DVD & Shirt Bundle – USA Napalm Webstore Only
-Digital Full Length Album

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Filed Under: Music, Music Headlines Tagged With: dee, heavy, hurricane, legend, live, metal, ...

Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection First Time Ever on Blu-ray!

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, A LANDMARK COLLECTION SHOWCASING THE LEGENDARY MONSTERS IN MOTION PICTURE HISTORY

UNIVERSAL CLASSIC MONSTERS: COMPLETE 30-FILM COLLECTION AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY™ ON AUGUST 28, 2018 FROM UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Universal City, California, August 22, 2018 – Thirty of the most iconic cinematic masterpieces starring the most famous monsters of horror movie history come together on Blu-ray™ for the first time ever in the Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection on August 28, 2018, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Featuring unforgettable make-up, ground-breaking special effects and outstanding performances, the Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes all Universal Pictures’ legendary monsters from the studio that pioneered the horror genre with imaginative and technically groundbreaking tales of terror in unforgettable films from the 1930s to late-1950s.

From the era of silent movies through present day, Universal Pictures has been regarded as the home of the monsters. The Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection showcases all the original films featuring the most iconic monsters in motion picture history including Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, The Invisible Man, The Bride of Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, Phantom of the Opera and Creature from the Black Lagoon. Starring some of the most legendary actors including Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., Claude Rains and Elsa Lanchester in the roles that they made famous, these films set the standard for a new horror genre and showcase why these landmark movies that defined the horror genre are regarded as some of the most unforgettable ever to be filmed.

Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes a 48-page collectible book filled with behind-the-scenes stories and rare production photographs and is accompanied by an array of bonus features including behind-the-scenes documentaries, the 1931 Spanish version of Dracula, Featurettes on Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., and Jack Pierce, 13 expert feature commentaries, archival footage, production photographs, theatrical trailers and more. The perfect gift for any scary movie fan, the collection offers an opportunity to experience some of the most memorable horror films of our time.

The Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes Dracula(1931), Frankenstein (1931), The Mummy (1932), The Invisible Man (1933), The Bride of Frankenstein (1935), Werewolf of London (1935), Dracula’s Daughter (1936), Son of Frankenstein (1939), The Invisible Man Returns (1940), The Invisible Woman (1940), The Mummy’s Hand (1940), The Wolf Man (1941), The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942), The Mummy’s Ghost (1942), The Mummy’s Tomb (1942),Invisible Agent (1942), Phantom of the Opera (1943), Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943), Son of Dracula (1943), House of Frankenstein (1944), The Mummy’s Curse (1944), The Invisible Man’s Revenge (1944), House of Dracula (1945), She-Wolf of London (1946), Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948), Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951), Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954, and includes a 3D version), Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955), Revenge of the Creature (1955 and includes a 3D version) and The Creature Walks Among Us (1956).

 

BONUS FEATURES:

  • Behind-the-Scenes Documentaries
  • 3D Versions of Creature from the Black Lagoon and Revenge of the Creature
  • 1931 Spanish Version of Dracula
  • Featurettes on Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., and Jack Pierce
  • 13 Expert Feature Commentaries
  • Archival Footage
  • Production Photographs
  • Theatrical Trailers

 

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: 13, 1930s, 1931, 1932, 1933, 1935, ...

The Big-Screen Version of the Smash Broadway Hit “Jersey Boys” Arrives onto Blu-rayô combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on November 11 From Warner Bros. Home Entertainment

Blu-ray and Digital HD include bonus content featuring interviews with Clint Eastwood and the cast!

Burbank, CA, September 2, 2014 – Based on the Tony Award-winning musical, “Jersey Boys” arrives onto Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on November 11 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Directed by Oscar® winner Clint Eastwood (“Million Dollar Baby,” “Unforgiven”), “Jersey Boys” is an inspiring drama featuring The Four Seasons’ songs that influenced a generation.

“Jersey Boys” stars John Lloyd Young, who reprises his Tony Award-winning portrayal of the legendary lead singer of The Four Seasons, Frankie Valli. Erich Bergen stars as Bob Gaudio, who wrote or co-wrote all of the group’s biggest hits. Michael Lomenda and Vincent Piazza star respectively as Nick Massi and Tommy DeVito, two original members of The Four Seasons. Oscar® winner Christopher Walken (“The Deer Hunter”) stars as mobster Gyp DeCarlo.

Clint Eastwood directed “Jersey Boys” from a screenplay and musical book by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, song music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Bob Crewe. “Jersey Boys” is produced by Clint Eastwood, Graham King and Robert Lorenz, along executive producers Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tim Moore, Tim Headington, James Packer and Brett Ratner.

“Jersey Boys” will be available on Blu-ray Combo Pack for $35.99 and includes the film in high definition on Blu-ray disc, DVD, and a digital version of the movie in Digital HD with UltraViolet. Fans can also own “Jersey Boys” in Digital HD via purchase from digital retailers.

 

SYNOPSIS

“Jersey Boys” tells the story of four young men from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey who came together to form the iconic 1960s rock group The Four Seasons. The story of their trials and triumphs are accompanied by the songs that influenced a generation, including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Dawn,” “Rag Doll,” “Bye Bye Baby,” “Who Loves You,” and many more.

These classic hits are now being embraced by a new generation of fans through the stage musical, which has been running on Broadway for more than eight years and has also enjoyed successful tours around the globe.

 

BLU-RAY AND DVD ELEMENTS

“Jersey Boys” Blu-ray Combo Pack contains the following special features:

  • From Broadway To The Big Screen
  • Too Good To Be True
  • “Oh, What A Night” To Remember

“Jersey Boys” Standard Definition DVD contains the following special features:

  • “Oh, What A Night” To Remember

 

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION ELEMENTS

“Jersey Boys” will be available for streaming and download to watch anywhere in high definition and standard definition on their favorite devices from select digital retailers including Amazon, CinemaNow, Flixster, iTunes, PlayStation, Target Ticket, Vudu, Xbox and others. “Jersey Boys” will also be available digitally on Video On Demand services from cable and satellite providers, and on select gaming consoles.

ABOUT DIGITAL HD WITH ULTRAVIOLET

*Digital HD with UltraViolet allows fans to watch a digital version of their movie or TV show anywhere, on their favorite devices. Digital HD with UltraViolet is included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs. Digital HD with UltraViolet allows consumers to instantly stream and download movies and TV shows to TVs, computers, tablets and smartphones through UltraViolet retail services like CinemaNow, Flixster, Target Ticket, VUDU and more. For more information on compatible devices go to wb.com/ultravioletdevices. Consult an UltraViolet Retailer for details and requirements and for a list of HD-compatible devices.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 11, arrives, bigscreen, blurayô, boys, broadway, ...

Matthew Patrick Davis talks about his stage version of Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas”

Photo Credit: Joanna Brooks

You may not know the name Matthew Patrick Davis yet but he is making a name for himself very quickly. He recently made headlines when his stage version of “Jack’s Lament” for “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” showed up on online. He has also been behind some very funny stage productions with the UCB Theatre including “The Shining! The Musical!” and “Jurasic Park: The Musical!”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Matthew about his work and what he has planned next.

Mike Gencarelli: Let’s talk about your stage version of “Jack’s Lament” for Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas”? Have you been contacted at all or do you have plans to expand it?
Matthew Patrick Davis: As a 6’8” physical actor who grew up loving Tim Burton, Danny Elfman and Oingo Boingo, playing Jack in a live adaptation of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” has always been a dream of mine. A couple years ago, I put up a few scenes from “Nightmare” in my acting class. The class freaked out and got super excited about it, so that’s when we decided to shoot some of it, and that’s where the video comes from. If this video could accomplish anything, I guess it would be for it to be a viral thingy and get the attention of the people that own the rights and actually have the power to make it a legitimate piece of theatre: Tim Burton and Thomas Schumacher, the President of Disney Theatrical Group. It would obviously have such mass appeal, and I think could be something insanely great.

MG: Tell us how did you come up with the ideas for “The Shining! The Musical!” and “Jurassic Park: The Musical?”
MPD: I write the movie musicals with my friends Joe Chandler and Zach Paez; friends from high school who are now television writers in Los Angeles. We just pick movies that we love, and musicalize them into part parody, part tribute. “Jurassic Park” was a movie that was very formative in our youth; as 14 year olds, we would often be found doing impressions of the Raptors or the Spitter in a Denny’s parking lot somewhere. “The Shining” is another one of our favorite films — we just enjoyed the juxtaposition between the darkness of man slowly going insane and trying to murder his family, with the light-heartedness of a musical.

MG: Any plans to ever perform these again or record and release them?
MPD: We perform the movie musicals semi-regularly at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in Los Angeles, so there will definitely be another performance sometime in the future.

MG: What do you have planned next to turn into a musical?
MPD: We’ve done four movie adaptations, (JP, The Shining, The NeverEnding Story, and The King of Kong) so next, we would love to do an original. So we’ll do that, and/or do one of the movies we’ve always talked about doing, i.e. T2, Top Gun, Glengarry Glen Ross, Braveheart, The Sixth Sense, etc.

MG: How did you end up as the Sprint Zombie for their commercials?
MPD: It was a pretty standard commercial audition process, just like any other. I got lucky with this one, in that they ran it so much, and it was actually a funny spot that I was really pleased with. The director said that one the reasons they hired me was because they like the way I added the “cool, cool cool cool…” in the audition, so I guess that’s something.

MG: What else do you have planned for 2014?
MPD: I’m going to be releasing an album of some of my songs that can be found on my YouTube page. I’ll be writing more songs and musicals. I’m hoping to take my one man show to the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in NYC — it’s called, “Matt Davis Gets A Girlfriend:” A One Man Musical about One Man’s quest to not DIE ALONE. Also, I’ll be doing the revival/reboot of the musical Side Show at the Kennedy Center in DC in June and July, having just done it at the La Jolla Playhouse.

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Filed Under: Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: burtons, christmas, davis, matthew, nightmare, patrick, ...

Blu-ray Review “Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale (International Version)”

Directed by: Te-Sheng Wei
Starring: Lin Ching-Tai, Umin Boya, Masanobu Ando
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Well Go USA
Release Date: August 7, 2012
Running Time: 422 minutes

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

When I reach out that “Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale” was the most expensive production in Taiwanese history (budgeted at around $25 million), I knew I just had to see it. I am a big fan of epic foreign films and definitely those produced by John Woo. When I say epic, this film delivers the epic. It runs over 4 1/2 hours long and split into two parts. If that is too long for you don’t worry there are two versions of “Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale” available on DVD and Blu-ray. There is also a cut two and a half hour version for the US. Though if you are looking for an equal amount of story to go along with the massive scale action sequences, then you are definitely going to want to watch the international version. The film was referred to as “Braveheart” meets “The Last of the Mohicans” but the film has the fierceness of these both and more.

The film itself chronicles the true story of Taiwan’s aboriginal tribes and their battle against the Japanese colonizers. That’s the short premise. The story takes us between 1895 and 1945, following the rival between a Japanese colony that inhabits the island and the aboriginal tribes who originally settled on the land. The Seediq leader, Mouna Rudo, (Lin Ching-Tai) recruits a number of other clans in order to band together to fight the Japanese. The film is beautifully different by Wei Te-Sheng (“Cape No.7”). The Taiwan landscapes are absolutely stunning, which are matched with some really top notch CGI. The action scenes are so amped up and also well paced within the story.

“Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale” looks absolutely fantastic on Blu-ray courtesy of Well Go USA. The 1080p transfer looks sharp and super clear within in aspect ratio of 2.34:1. It is a film that is meant for a high definition presentation and looks spectacular. There are two audio tracks, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and Dolby Digital 2.0 tracks. Obviously, I feel that the 5.1 track works much better, especially with the action. The special features are only have extras but they are quite epic, just like the film. “The Epic Journey of the Warriors” runs well over 2 1/2 hours, just in case the film wasn’t long enough. It is very a intensive behind-the-scenes look at the production, which plays out like a graphic shooting diary. There are also additional “Interviews with Director Wei Te-Sheng and Producer John Woo” and “Make-Up and Visual Effects” included. Lastly there are the theatrical and international trailers included.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bale, bluray, international, rainbow, review, seediq, ...

Blu-ray Review “A Streetcar Named Desire: The Original Restored Version”

Directed by: Elia Kazan
Starring: Marlon Brando, Vivien Leigh, Kim Hunter, Karl Malden
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributed by: Warner Brothers
Release Date: April 10, 2012
Running Time: 122 minutes

Restored Version: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Who hasn’t seen the cinematic masterpiece called “A Streetcar Named Desire”. Thanks to Warner Bros for bringing us this wonderful celebration of the 60th anniversary and including the Original Restored Version.  Due to the 1951 Legion of Decency censorship, there was three minutes of previously unseen footage including the sexual tension between Blanche DuBois (Vivien Leigh) and Stanley Kowalski (Marlon Brando). Watching this film always leaves me yelling “Hey, Stellaaaaaa!” the rest of the day.  This is a wonderful release and is highly recommended for all fans of the film to experience this amazing film on Blu-ray.

This is the first time that this classic is making its way onto Blu-ray with a really stunning restoration.  It looks wonderful in its digitally remastered 1080p transfer in its original aspect ratio: 1.37:1.  The audio track included is an DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track, which preserves the original charm. I really enjoyed the fact that this book was released as a Digibook.  It comes with a 40-page book format with behind-the-scenes photography, production notes and biographies.  I really love these edition, instead of a boring empty case.

The special features are a bit disappointing for the Blu-ray debut.  This is not due to content but since the extras are presented in standard definition and not high definition.  There is a commentary track featuring producer Laurent Bouzereau with comments from co- star Karl Malden and historians Rudy Behlmer and Jeff Young.  This is highly recommended, Laurent Bouzereau knows so much about film and is fantastic to listen to.  There is a great documentary, which runs about 75 minutes, “Elia Kazan: A Director’s Journey”.  It is narrated by Eli Wallach and looks into Kazan’s career in depth.  “A Streetcar on Broadway” focuses on the original Broadway version. “A Streetcar in Hollywood” features Kazan’s chatting about the film’s road from the stage to the screen. “Censorship and Desire” is a big topic with this film and focuses on its dealings during time of release with Rudy Behlmer.  “North and the Music of the South” is a focus piece on composer Alex North. “An Actor Named Brando” is short feature on the legendary actor. “Marlon Brando Screen Test” is a really amazing rare behind the scenes look. There Outtakes that run about 15 minutes and also Audio Outtakes, which run about 17 minutes.  Lastly there are a bunch of trailers including original 1951 Warner Brothers, 20th Century Fox 1958 Reissue and United Artists 1970 Reissue.

Synopsis: “A Streetcar Named Desire: the Original Restored Version” is the film moviegoers would have seen in 1951 had not Legion of Decency censorship occurred at the last minute. Making its Blu-ray debut, stunningly restored and digitally remastered to brilliant 1080p clarity, this classic is presented in a collectible, premium 40-page Blu-ray book format, with behind-the-scenes photography, production notes, biographies and more! Elia Kazan masterfully directs Tennessee Williams? masterpiece starring Vivien Leigh, Marlon Brando, Karl Malden and Kim Hunter. Nominated for an unprecedented 12 Academy Awards,® including Best Picture, and winner of 4,* its contributions to film continue to be celebrated, holding its place on the AFI’s list of Top 100 Films.

In celebration of the 60th Anniversary, “A Streetcar Named Desire” will debut on Blu-ray Book on April 10th, 2012.
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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, desire, named, original, restored, review, ...

Save the Date: Unrated Version of “Bridesmaids” Heads Home

Save the Date for the Year’s Most Outrageously Hilarious Comedy
& One of the Top Five R-Rated Comedies of All Time!
September 20, 2011

“The Funniest Movie Ever!” – Shawn Edwards, Fox-TV

“If This is Only a Chick Flick, Then Call Me a Chick!” – Joe Morgenstern, The Wall Street Journal

Say “I Do” to the Blu-ray™ and DVD Combo Packs Featuring an Unrated Version of the Film Not Seen in Theaters Plus More than Three Hours of Laugh-Out-Loud Bonus Materials!
Also Available on DVD, Digital Copy and Digital Download

Universal City, California, July 19, 2011 – Join the wildest wedding party of the year when Bridesmaids marches down the aisle to Blu-ray™, DVD and digital download on September 20, 2011, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment.  Hailed as “brazenly hysterical” by People Magazine and “the best comedy of 2011” (Back Stage), Bridesmaids is the riotously funny and warmly outrageous comedy that has become the most talked about movie of the year.  Critically acclaimed by fans and media alike, the “certified fresh” film (Rotten Tomatoes.com) received “two thumbs up! ®” from Ebert Presents.  Surpassing Sex and the City as the number one R-rated female comedy of all time, Bridesmaids starring “Saturday Night Live” standouts Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph, is produced by comedy mastermind Judd Apatow (Knocked Up, The 40-Year Old Virgin) and marks his most successful film ever.

Wiig and Rudolph are joined by an all-star comedy cast including Rose Byrne (Get Him to the Greek, “Damages”),
Melissa McCarthy (“Mike and Molly,” “Samantha Who?”), Wendi McLendon-Covey (“Rules of Engagement,”
“Reno 911”), Ellie Kemper (“The Office,” Somewhere), Jon Hamm (“Mad Men,” SuckerPunch), and Chris O’Dowd
(“The IT Crowd,” Pirate Radio).  Directed by Paul Feig (“Nurse Jackie, “Arrested Development”) and written by The Groundlings comedy veterans Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig, Bridesmaids is the must-own comedic phenomenon that fans will want to watch again and again!

The perfect gift or movie for a fun night in, consumers can own Bridesmaids in multiple formats, including Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD Combo Pack, DVD and Digital Download.  Featuring spectacular high-definition picture and the purest digital sound, the Bridesmaids Blu-ray™ and DVD Combo-Packs include both a Blu-ray and DVD PLUS a digital copy of the movie that can be watched anywhere, anytime, on consumers’ choice of devices including laptops, tablets, smartphones as well as Internet-connected TVs and Blu-ray™ set top boxes. The Blu-ray™, DVD and DVD Combo Packs each include an all-new, never-before-seen unrated version of the film as well as feature the original theatrical version. Additionally, the Blu-ray™ and DVD Combo Packs are loaded with nearly three hours of bonus features, deleted scenes, a gag reel, a Bridesmaids “Making Of,” featurettes, and much, much more.  There’s no better way to enjoy this instant classic!

EXCLUSIVE BLU-RAYTM BONUS FEATURES:

  • DIGITAL COPY:  Viewers can redeem a digital version of the full-length movie to watch on an array of electronic and portable devices.
  • GAG REEL (Blu-rayTM Version)
  • DELETED SCENES:  Tons of deleted scenes, plus a never-before-seen “commercial” for Brynn and Gil’s
    Oo-Laka Juice.
  • EXTENDED & ALTERNATE SCENES:  Tons of extended and alternate scenes featuring the bridesmaids, the boyfriends, the roommates, Cholodecki’s employees and customers, and the hilarious “stolen” boot camp class.
  • MADE OF HONOR:  BEHIND THE SCENES OF BRIDESMAIDS:  A behind-the-scenes “Making Of” the film featuring Maya Rudolph, Kristen Wiig, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Ellie Kemper, writer Annie Mumolo, director Paul Feig and producer Judd Apatow, among others. 
  • DRUNK-O-RAMA:  Featuring Kristen Wiig’s greatest moments on the plane.
  • PEP TALK: Featuring Kristen Wiig on the tennis court
  • ANNIE VS. HELEN:  A montage of Bridesmaids frenemies’ – Kristen Wiig’s “Annie” and Rose Byrne’s “Helen” – best and worst moments together.
  • “HOLD ON:” Full song performance of Wilson Phillips’ hit “Hold On.”
  • BD-LIVE™:  Access the BD-Live™ Center through your Internet-connected player to watch exclusive content, the latest trailers and more!
  • pocket BLU™:   The groundbreaking pocket BLU™ app uses iPad®, iPhone®, iPod®  touch,  Android™, PC and Mac®  to work seamlessly with a network-connected Blu-ray™ player.  Plus iPad® owners can enjoy a new, enhanced edition of pocket BLU™ made especially to take advantage of the tablet’s larger screen and high resolution display.  Consumers will be able to browse through a library of Blu-ray™ content and watch entertaining extras on the go in a way that’s bigger and better than ever before.  pocket BLU™ offers advanced features such as:
    • ADVANCED REMOTE CONTROL: A sleek, elegant new way to operate your Blu-ray™ player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and BD-Live™ functions with ease.
    • VIDEO TIMELINE:  Users can easily bring up the video timeline, allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.
    • MOBILE-TO-GO:  Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with their Blu-ray™ discs to save to their device or to stream from anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on the go, anytime, anywhere.
    • BROWSE TITLES:  Users will have access to a complete list of pocket BLU™-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray™ Hi-Def.  They can view free previews and see what additional content is available to unlock on their device.
    • KEYBOARD:  Entering data is fast and easy with your device’s intuitive keyboard.
  • MY SCENES: Bookmark your favorite scenes from the film.
  • uHEAR™:  Never miss another line of dialogue with this innovative feature that instantly skips back a few seconds on your Blu-ray™ disc and turns on the subtitles to highlight what you missed.

BLU-RAYTM AND DVD BONUS FEATURES

  • FEATURE COMMENTARY: With director Paul Feig, co-writer Annie Mumolo and cast members Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McClendon-Covey and Ellie Kemper.
  • GAG REEL (DVD Version)
    • LINE-O-RAMA
    • ADDITIONAL DELETED SCENES
    • ADDITIONAL EXTENDED & ALTERNATE SCENES
      • CHOLODECKI’S COMMERCIAL:  Check out what’s new with Cholodecki’s when you watch the never-before-seen “commercial” from Annie’s jewelry employer!

 

SYNOPSIS

“Gut-bustingly funny!”(Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly) From the producer of Superbad, Knocked Up and The 40-Year-Old Virgin comes the breakout comedy critics are calling “brazenly hysterical!” (Alynda Wheat, People).

Thirty-something Annie (Kristen Wiig) has hit a rough patch but finds her life turned completely upside down when she takes on the Maid of Honor role in her best friend Lillian’s (Maya Rudolph) wedding. In way over her head but determined to succeed, Annie leads a hilarious hodgepodge of bridesmaids (Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Ellie Kemper) on a wild ride down the road to the big event.

 

CAST AND FILMMAKERS

Directed By: Paul Feig

Screenplay By: Kristen Wiig, Annie Mumolo

Produced By: Judd Apatow, Barry Mendel, Annie Mumolo, Clayton Townsend, and Kristen Wiig

Executive Producers: Paul Feig

Director of Photography: Robert D. Yeoman

Production Designer: Jefferson Sage

Editors: William Kerr, Michael L. Sale

Music By: Michael Andrew

Costume Designer: Leesa Evans, Christine Wada

Cast: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Ellie Kemper and Jon Hamm

TECHNICAL INFORMATION:  BLU-RAY™/DVD COMBO PACK: 

BLU-RAY™ COMBO SPECIFIC INFORMATION: 

Street Date: September 20, 2011

Copyright: Universal Studios 2011

Selection Number: 61119645

Running Time: 2 Hours 5 Minutes / 2 Hours 11 minutes

Layers:  BD-50/DVD-9

Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen 2.40:1

Rating: R for some strong sexuality and language throughout/ Unrated

Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1/DVS Dolby Digital 2.0, Spanish and French DTS Surround 5.1

Language/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French

DVD COMBO SPECIFIC INFORMATION:

Street Date: September 20, 2011

Copyright: Universal Studios 2011

Selection Number: 61119956

Running Time: 2 Hours 5 Minutes / 2 Hours 11 minutes

Layers:  BD-50/DVD-9

Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1 – Widescreen 2.40:1

TECHNICAL INFORMATION:  BLU-RAY™/DVD COMBO PACK CONTINUED: 

DVDCOMBO SPECIFIC INFORMATION: 

Rating: R for some strong sexuality and language throughout/ Unrated

Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1/DVS Dolby Digital 2.0, Spanish and French DTS Surround 5.1

Language/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French

TECHNICAL INFORMATION: SD DVD

Street Date: September 20, 2011

Copyright: Universal Studios 2011.  All Rights Reserved.

Selection Number:  61115600

Running Time: 2 Hours 5 Minutes / 2 Hours 11 minutes

Layers: Dual Layer

Aspect Ratio: Theatrical 2.35:1 – Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1

Rating: R for some strong sexuality and language throughout/ Unrated

Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles

Sound: English Dolby Digital 5.1/DVS Dolby Digital 2.0, Spanish and French Audio Dolby Digital 5.1

http://www.bridesmaidsmovie.com/

 

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: bridesm, date, save, unrated, version
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