Sabrina Carpenter talks about her role in “Girl Meets World”

Sabrina Carpenter is a 13 years old actress and a very talented musician. She is a Hollywood Records artist and her song “Smile” was released on “Disney Fairies” CD. She was also recently cast in the series pilot for “Girl Meets World”, the sequel to “Boy Meets World”. In Disney Junior’s “Sofia The First”, she voices and also sings for the role of Princess Vivian. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Sabrina about her role in “Girl Meets World” and about the pilot.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us about your character, Maya Fox, in upcoming series “Girl Meets World”?
Sabrina Carpenter: Maya is Riley Matthews’ best friend. She is a little darker than Riley. She cares so much for her. I think that is what keep her sane is having Riley by her side. They are two opposites but love each other so much and have such an appreciation for each other.

MG: How was it shooting the pilot episode?
SC: It was so much fun. We were also very lucky to have some of the original cast from “Boy Meets World” visit us on set. That was so amazing. We are working with some really amazingly talented writers and producers, along with a great cast. We are so lucky that Ben (Savage) and Danielle (Fishel) are back on this show as well. I think that everybody is going to love it!

Click here to read our interview with Sabrina for her role in Disney Junior’s “Sofia The First”

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CD Review: Jimmy Eat World “Damage”

Jimmy Eat World
“Damage”
Release Date: June 11, 2013
Number of Discs: 1
Label: RCA
Running Time: 37 minutes

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

I have to admit, I am not the biggest Jimmy Eat World fan. I am a huge though a fan of their 2001 release “Bleed American”, with hit tracks like “The Middle” and “Sweetness”. I have yet to see them replicate that success since. “Damage” is the band’s seventh studio album and their follow up to 2010′s critically-acclaimed “Invented”. I have to admit even though it doesn’t have the pop and energy of “Bleed American”, it packs some good songs and certainly grows on you over time. I recently listened to the new Black Sabbath album “13″ and I liked it but after they were over I couldn’t see myself listening to them over and over. That is not the case with “Damage”. I have a feeling that this album is going to become an indie hit over this summer for sure.

This new album was produced by Jimmy Eat World and Alain Johannes. Some of the tracks on the album are better than others but all together it is a pretty well-rounded pop album. My favorite track on the album is the title track “Damage”, it is catchy and packs a great chorus. I can see this becoming quite popular for them. Their first official single “I Will Steal You Back” is another great song and like I said, I see this one becoming a summer hit. All the tracks add up to just under 40 minutes, which is not incredibly long but they are short, sweet and to the point. If you are a long-time fan, you should definitely enjoy this. I just wish they added a little more energy into some of the tracks. But like I said, after listening looping it over a few times, the album is starting to grow on me more and more.

Track Listing:
1. Appreciation
2. Damage
3. Lean
4. Book of Love
5. I Will Steal You Back
6. Please Say No
7. How’d You Have Me
8. No, Never
9. Byebyelove
10. You Were Good

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“Withered World” – An End of the World Web-Series to Debut This Week

“Withered World,” a new web-series which tells about the last day on Earth through the eyes of a diverse group of filmmakers, debuts this week, Tuesday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. It can be viewed at www.witheredworld.tv

The series, conceived by Bryce Young (who also wrote and directed the first episode), deals with the way the human race deals with their last day on Earth. Filmed entirely in Kansas City, using all Kansas City talent both behind and in front of the camera, the series kicks off with “A Man’s Tale.” In an interivew with Young, which will be posted later this week, he told Media Mikes that his fellow filmmakers were given no direction or plot points to follow. His only instructions were that their short films deal in some way with the human race and it’s last day on this planet. I found the first episode very intriguing and can’t wait to see what happens next week! Enjoy!

 

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CD Review: Skid Row “United World Rebellion- Chapter One” EP

Skid Row
“United World Rebellion- Chapter One” EP
Megaforce Records
Tracks: 5

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Skid Row is back with their first new studio release in 7 years titled “United World Rebellion- Chapter One”. The EP features 5 new songs from the band who once dominated the charts with hits such as “18 and Life”, “Youth Gone Wild” and “I Remember You”. “United World Rebellion- Chapter One” is the bands first release since signing to Megaforce Records earlier this year and is the follow up release to the 2006 album titled “Revolutions Per Minute”.

Though the band may look a little different these days their style and attitude remains the same. Blistering guitars and razor sharp vocals blast your ears relentlessly over the EP’s 5 tracks. Vocalist Johnny Solinger who joined the group in 1999 stays true to the original sound of Skid Row while adding his own southern flare. Original members Dave “Snake” Sabo, Scottie Hill and Rachel Boland provide the complementary instrumentation while the bands newest member drummer Rob Hammersmith provides a steady back beat acting as the proverbial icing on the cake. Songs such as “Kings of Demolition” and “Get Up” are stand alone rockers while the country tinged “This Is Killing Me” slows things down a bit and gently tugs at your heart strings. Though not as strong as some of the bands other recent releases “United World Rebellion- Chapter One” is a good start and with the band planning to release a couple more EP’s later this year listeners will definitely want to start with a copy of “United World Rebellion- Chapter One”.

Track Listing:
1.) Kings of Demolition
2.) Let’s Go
3.) This Is Killing Me
4.) Get Up
5.) Stitches

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Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje talks about roles in "Bullet to the Head" and "Thor: The Dark World"

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje is best known for his roles in TV series like Mr. Eko on “Lost” and Simon Adebisi on “Oz”. He has one hell of a busy year planned for 2013 with “Bullet to the Head” with Sylvester Stallone, Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World” and a coming-of-age film “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Adewale about how he gets into characters and his busy year.

Mike Gencarelli: How was it going head-to-head with Sylvester Stallone in “Bullet to the Head”?
Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje: Well as you can imagine there was a lot of testosterone, but also a lot of fun. You are working with a legend of that genre, also Walter Hill, who is a legendary director. It was a lot of fun but it was also strictly business. It was bullets to the head…get in there and deliver. Just had a great time overall man!

MG: Give us some background on your character Morel?
AAA: He is an African businessman, who is somewhat corrupt. He has escaped from Africa with huge amount of funds, moved to the United States and landed in New Orleans. He is very smart and also ruthless and his goal is to own most of New Orleans…by any means necessary. He has his stable of henchmen and is also very sophisticated. It is all camouflage for what lies below, which is a ruthless and cold-hearted businessman. He is also conflicted with a crippling disability but he does not allow that to impede him as a formidable force. In fact he uses that to propel him and try harder.

MG: Is there anything in particular you do to prepare for a role like that?
AAA: It is just a matter of having dialogue with the director. A lot of it was on the page but then we added texture and dimension. I chatted with the director and saw what he would like to explore. Also I was given the choice if I wanted to make him crippled or not. I thought it would be an interesting challenge to do so and add more texture to the character. So we went for that. I think as we started to see him on screen we started to see him unravel with different layers. I did have to hobble around on sticks for a good 2-3 weeks before we shot it though in order to get the disability right. Other than that it was really get in there and feel the character. We shot it in very opulent locations in New Orleans and that always adds to your performance.

MG: How did you prepare for such an iconic comic villains playing both Algrim the Strong and Kurse in “Thor: The Dark World”?
AAA: It was a huge opportunity to pull double duty. In order to prepare you obviously go through and read the comics and research the characters history. You also look at the imagery and have discussions with Marvel and the directors to see their vision for the characters. Then the rest is left for the designers who create the costumes, which really then assists in your performance. Specifically for Kurse, it was very much looking at the costume and what I thought it would embody. For instance it had a certain look, so I used that look for his interpretive actions. I found that very useful. So with the horns and everything, I just went with that flow and tried to define a way of moving and fighting that was in the rhythm and the way that he looked. With Algrim, again the aesthetic look and the outfit really factored in as does the location and the set. From the moment you step into that world, you immediately become that character. You make them real. So in a way you have to ground the character in reality that makes it normal for them to be in that world. I believe and hope that we have done that well in this and that the audiences are going to enjoy it.

MG: You were called “The Biggest Badass in Hollywood” (by Huff Post); what keeps you coming back and playing the villain in roles like this?
AAA: What makes me or what makes them keep hiring me? I think it is one in the same thing. I think we both enjoy it. I think the industry knows that I can deliver when playing the villain. I certainly enjoy playing the villain because you have this created likeness to really go anywhere. When you play the hero, there are parameters that you cannot cross. But with the bad guy, there is no such thing and you can do basically what you like. That is a creative freedom and luxury that I love. They also always make the most interesting character for me. The funny thing is though; I never really look at these as bad. I look at them as guys who have agendas and they will do what they need to do in acquire, obtain or accomplish them. So to make the most interesting villain is that you need to see him as an ordinary guy who have a mission.

MG: From action to superheroes we go to the coming-of-age “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete”, tell us about this project?
AAA: This is a very different type of movie. As you can see we have done all genres across the board from huge Marvel tentpole to iron-packed action. This film really comes down to what I really love, a small independent film. It premiered at Sundance and was shot by George Tillman Jr. It has got Jeffrey Wright, Jennifer Hudson, Anthony Mackie and an absolutely spectacular group of children actors. It is based on the survival of these two children in a hot and tough summer in Brooklyn. I play a cop, on the other side of the law this time, who is trying to keep these straight kids off the streets. It is just one of those endearing stories of survival and friendship. It is very real. I also love shooting in New York during the summer. This one is not about the costumes or effects or anything. It is about heart-to-heart relationships.

Be sure to follow @Adewale on his official twitter page.

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CD/DVD Review: Motorhead “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”

Motorhead
“The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”
Motorhead Music
Producer: David Pattenden
Music Tracks: 28
DVD Tracks: 28

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Motorhead are back with a brand new live CD/DVD/Blu-Ray release titled “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else”. The release features 2 audio CD’s and both the DVD and Blu-Ray formats of the concerts featured on the audio discs. Produced by David Pattenden and released via Motorhead Music “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else” is jammed packed with one louder goodness from start to finish.

Picking up where the bands 2011 live release “The World is Ours- Vol. 1 Everywhere Further Than Everywhere Else” left off Vol.2 takes things a step further with the big bonus being the 4 disc packaging which includes both standard DVD and HD Blu-Ray formats of the concert footage. The release includes performances from the bands 2011 Wacken Open Air Festival, Sonisphere and Rock in Rio appearances. Though the track listings of Vol. 1 and 2 are quite similar there is still enough different material contained on Vol. 2 to make it worth picking up. A definite nod should be given to mixer Cameron Webb who did a wonderful job with each of the 28 tracks. Songs such as “Iron Fist”, “The Chase is Better Than the Catch” and “Killed by Death” jump out of the speakers making you feel like you are in the front row. Lemmy’s vocals sound crisp and clear which only adds to the listening experience. When it comes to the video portion of the release be prepared to go to 11. Both DVD and Blu-Ray versions of the corresponding shows feature stunning visuals and great camera angles which capture all the non-stop action from both the band and the audiences view points.

Though I would have liked to have seen more in the way of special features in the video portion and possibly a bit more variation in the set lists the release is still a really great package plus I don’t think you can ever go wrong with multiple versions of “Ace of Spades” being included on the same album. If you want the live Motorhead experience without leaving the comfort of your living room “The World is Ours- Vol. 2- Anyplace Crazy as Anywhere Else” is going to be about as close as you can get.

Disc 1 CD Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) Stay Clean
3.) Get Back in Line
4.) Metropolis
5.) Over the Top
6.) One Night Stand
7.) Rock Out
8.) The Thousand Names of God
9.) I Know How to Die
10.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
11.) In the Name of Tragedy
12.) Just ‘Cos You Got the Power
13.) Going to Brazil
14.) Killed by Death
15.) Bomber

Disc 2 CD Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Ace of Spades
2.) Overkill
Sonisphere Festival
3.) Iron Fist
4.) I Know How to Die
5.) In The Name of Tragedy
6.) Killed by Death
7.) Ace of Spades
8.) Overkill
Rock in Rio
9.) Stay Clean
10.) Over the Top
11.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
12.) Going to Brazil
13.) Killed By Death

DVD/Blu-Ray Track Listing:
Wacken Open Air Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) Stay Clean
3.) Get Back in Line
4.) Metropolis
5.) Over the Top
6.) One Night Stand
7.) Rock Out
8.) The Thousand Names of God
9.) I Know How to Die
10.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
11.) In the Name of Tragedy
12.) Just ‘Cos You Got the Power
13.) Going to Brazil
14.) Killed by Death
15.) Bomber
16.) Ace of Spades
17.) Overkill

Sonisphere Festival
1.) Iron Fist
2.) I Know How to Die
3.) In The Name of Tragedy
4.) Killed by Death
5.) Ace of Spades
6.) Overkill

Rock in Rio
1.) Stay Clean
2.) Over the Top
3.) The Chase is Better Than the Catch
4.) Going to Brazil
5.) Killed By Death

Bonus Feature:
Festival Impressions W:O:A

 

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Book Review “Tolkien’s World: A Guide to the Peoples and Places of Middle-Earth”

Author: Gareth Hanrahan
Illustrator by: Peter Mckinstry
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: Insight Editions
Release Date: October 2, 2012

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

I have to admit that I have never read J.R.R. Tolkien’s original books that inspired Peter Jackson’s trilogy, as well as the upcoming “The Hobbit” trilogy. But still I am huge fan of the series and I know quite a bit about the world that Tolkien has created.  This book, when it comes down to it, is an illustrated book that is really only aimed for kids.  Unless you are a die-hard Tolkien fan, I do not see any adults really diving into this book.  The focus is put on the series’ mythical characters and awe-inspiring locations. If you are looking to engage yourself in the incredible journey through Middle-earth, then then watch the movies and skip the book.

When I open a book I really need to fall in love with the illustrations right away otherwise I loose interest fast.  Peter Mckinstry did a decent job with designs these character with his approach but I just wasn’t on board. The book over plays like a encyclopedia. It aims to give details on various different aspects of Tolkien’s world exploring Middle-earth, ranging form the Hobbit’s Shire to dark world of Mordor. I would only recommend this book for two reasons, if you have a young kid or if you are desperate for the upcoming prequel “Hobbit movies”, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (December 2012) and The Hobbit: There and Back Again (December 2013).

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NYCC 2012: Yakko’s Modern World?

Media Mikes was lucky enough to catch up with emmy-winning voice actor Rob Paulsen on the floor of NYCC this past Friday. Paulsen can currently be heard in Nickelodeon’s new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as Donatello alongside Sean Astin’s Raphael. However he was equally ready to talk about one of his most iconic roles, Yakko Warner, of “Animaniacs”.

Children of the 90s will remember the impressive and catchy “Yakko’s World” in which Paulsen sang the names of the nations of the world. As political lines have shifted since 1993 when the song first aired, Paulsen revealed that he and the writer are hoping to be back to get an updated version recorded:

“I don’t know if I’m recording it for sure, Randy Rogel who wrote Yakko’s World–and all the other cool stuff on Animaniacs, by and large–told me a couple weeks ago that he updated Yakko’s World to reflect the Soviet Union no longer being around and all the ‘-stans’. Uzebekistan, Kazahkstan, Tajikastan…so yea, apparently there is a new, updated version of Yakko’s World and I hope that we can record it one day and release it!”

Great news! Now, all together, “Uuuunited States, Canada, Mexico, Panama…“

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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!

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 “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).

“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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Matthew Lillard talks about his directorial debut with “Fat Kid Rules the World”

Matthew Lillard has appeared in over 70 films and is probably best known for his roles in Wes Cravens “Scream” and the live action “Scooby-Doo” films. Media Mikes had the chance to talk with Matthew about making his debut as a director with the film “Fat Kid Rules the World” which is an adaptation of the K.L. Going novel of the same name.

Adam Lawton: Can you give us a brief overview of the film?
Matthew Lillard: In the first few frames of the film the main character Troy Billings who is an obese teenager tries to jump in front of a bus. He ends up being saved by a punk rock guitar savant and the two start a band. The film is really about their journey as friends and them finding themselves.

AL: What drew you to the project?
ML: I was the kid who was lost in high school. I feel like 95% of the world feels like they don’t belong in whatever high school situation they are in. I felt like the story of Troy’sjourney depicted my experience in school. I think there are kids out there that need a movie like
this. The film is very honest and we just wanted to deliver that to those who need it.

AL: What was the hardest part of both directing and acting in the film?
ML: I actually cut my part out of the final frames of the film as it just didn’t work. Thestory is very fast and tidy and I felt my stuff really kind of lagged.

AL: How did Pearl Jam’s Matt McCready become involved with the scoring of the film?
ML: I had told my agents that I was directing a film and they asked me if I had anyone in mind to do the music. I told them no but the film was based in Seattle. They brought up Matt’s name and that he was looking for a film to score. He came on board and changed the quality of our film. He made a huge impact on our movie.

AL: What are the film’s release plans?
ML: The idea is that any one in America right now can go to www.tuggthefatkid.com and request a screening of our movie in their local theater. Once there are enough people to pre-buy tickets the screening will happen. It’s kind of a new way distributing independent films.

AL: You used Kickstarter.com to fundthe film. How did you become aware of that?
ML: I have had tons of friends that have used it in the past. It was a pretty amazing experience as we raised $158,000.00 in 31 days. It just helped propel the film as there is always the chance that an independent film can drift off in to oblivion. The support we have gotten from the community has really allowed us to find a new avenue to distribute this movie.

AL: What other projects are you working on right now?
ML: I just finished a film with Clint Eastwood titled “Trouble with the Curve” that comes out this fall. I also will be leaving soon for Australia to start work on “Nims Island 2”. I am always looking for films to do and hope to be doing another one in the next 6 months.

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Blu-ray Review “A Perfect World”

Directed by: Clint Eastwood
Starring: Kevin Costner, Clint Eastwood and Laura Dern
MPAA Rating: PG 13
Distributed by: Warner Bros
Release Date: June 5, 2012
Running Time: 2 hours 18 mins

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars

The first film directed by Eastwood after he won his much deserved Oscar for “Unforgiven,” A Perfect World” is a great cat and mouse game pitting two of the best, Costner and Eastwood, at the top of their game. Costner is Butch Haynes, an escaped convict who, among his adventures, adds kidnapping to his list of charges when he abducts 7-year old Phillip “Buzz” Perry. As the two keep one step ahead of the law, led by U.S. Marshall Red Garnett (Eastwood) they discover they have a lot in common.

Thanks to a tight script by John Lee Hancock and Eastwood’s always steady direction, “A Perfect World” is an emotional roller coaster with Costner giving one of his best performances. The presentation is top notch, which is to be expected on Blu-ray. The only extra on the disc is the theatrical trailer. What a disappointment. Both Eastwood and Costner had won directing Oscars in the few years preceding and it would have been a treat to eavesdrop on two acclaimed filmmakers while they worked together.

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Synopsis: Academy Award winners* Kevin Costner and Clint Eastwood confront each other from opposite sides of the law in A Perfect World, an acclaimed, multilayered manhunt saga (directed by Eastwood) that rumbles down Texas backroads toward a harrowing collision with fate. Costner plays Butch Haynes, a hardened prison escapee on the lam with a young hostage (T.J. Lowther in a remarkable film debut) who sees in Butch the father figure he never had. Eastwood is wily Texas Ranger Red Garnett, leading deputies and a criminologist (Laura Dern) on a statewide pursuit. Red knows every road and pothole in the Panhandle. What’s more, he knows the elusive Haynes ? because their paths have crossed before.

 

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Blu-ray Review “The Secret World of Arrietty”

Directed by: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
Starring: Bridgit Mendler, David Henrie, Amy Poehler, Will Arnett, Moises Arias
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: Walt Disney Pictures
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Running Time: 94 minutes

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

“The Secret World of Arrietty” is easily one of my favorite animated films. It might even be one of my favorite Studio Ghibli films as well. The more you watch this film the better it gets. It is such a simple film but it also so absolutely vibrant and enthralling that you can’t take your eyes off the screen. I love the hand-drawn animation, Hollywood doesn’t give them the respect that they deserve. My favorite part of this film is honestly the score. It is written and performed by the very talented French singer/songwriter, Cécile Corbel. It is one of my favorite scores, in recent times, if not ever.

The story tells the tale of a family of four-inch-tall people, called Borrowers, who live hidden about the humans or beans as they are called in the film. They survive by borrowing only what they need to survive and only items that will not be missed. On the first night that the young girl Arrietty (Mendler) goes borrowing with her father, they are spotted by a bean and their lives will never be the same. The human is a sick young boy named Shawn, that is very sweet and friendly. Unfortunately, his Great Aunt Hara does not have the same feeling and seeks to have them captured.

The Blu-ray presentation looks much better than it did in the theaters. The colors are more vibrant and the animation just pops right off the screen. The 1080p transfer looks so fantastic and crisp. The sound, like I mentioned, is just absolutely perfect with its DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. I wish Disney would have sprung though for the 7.1 track but it is still amazing. The special features are a bit disappointing for a Disney film. The best feature is a storyboard version of the film, definitely worth checking out for animation fans. There are the original Japanese trailers and TV commercials, worth checking out also. Lastly there are two music videos for “Summertime” by Bridgit Mendler and “Arrietty’s Song” by Cécile Corbe. I would have loved to see more production featurettes and commentary tracks included.

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3D Blu-ray Review “History of the World in Two Hours”

Original Aired on: The History Channel
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: A&E Home Video
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Runing Time: 88 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I don’t know what it is about programs on The History Channel but I am total sucker. Especially about the cool topic like the creation of our world! And especially in 3D! This is not the first time The History Channel has released their specials in 3D, there was “WWII in 3D”, which was released earlier this year. Overall, I was entertained and also learned a little bit as well.

This special focused on everything about our world from the formation of the earth to the creation of life to the growth of civilization. The CGI is very impressive and works really well with the 3D. The visual effects really popped out and really sold the special for me.  I just wish that this wasn’t limited to two hours and lasted longer as a series. Though for what it is it definitely flies through 14 billion years of history quite well and still manages to keep your interest spiked.

There are no special features included on this release, so that is a little disappointing overall but they have the two hours so packed with information and entertainment, I barely realized. The only thing about this film that made me laugh is that it is called “History of the World in Two Hours” but only runs 88 minutes. But of course, it had to be adjusted for commercials on TV.  If anyone related to The History Channel reads this, please produce more specials in 3D, I have really enjoyed them thus far. It is a great way to take learning to the third dimension. In fact, I would actually love to see a full series in 3D like “The Universe”.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 3d, bluray, history, hours, review, world, ...

DVD Review “Tom and Jerry: Around the World”

MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Release Date: May 1, 2012
Running Time: 170 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Watching Tom and Jerry cartoons is something I can just never turn down.  With this new DVD collection of episodes, it focuses on an “Around the World” theme.  Although it isn’t just traveling without our planet, there is a lot of adventures in outer space as well, which I enjoyed.  With the 22 episodes included, there is plenty of fun and crazy antics going on between our famous feline and mouse.

This collection like past ones are a mix of classic and new episodes.   Tom and Jerry cartoons are just so timeless that this show will never not be relevant.  Especially with the new “The Looney Tunes Show”, I would love to see a new reboot of “Tom and Jerry” as well. I love the fact that Warner Home Video has continuously been releasing these in themed packages.  I am curious to see what they are going to come up with next.

The episodes included are:  “Way-Off Broadway”, “Martian Mice”, “Medieval Menance”, “Abracadumb”, “The Million Dollar Cat”, “Din-O-sores”, “Invasion of the Body Slammers”, “I Dream of Meanie”, “Neapolitan Mouse”, “Kitty Hawked”, “Flamenco Fiasco”, “You’re Lion”, “Kangadoofus”, “Monkey Chow”, “Freaky Tiki”, “Monster Con”, “Royal Cat Nap”, “Spaced Out Cat”, “The Two Mouseketeers”, “Tom & Jerry in the Hollywood Bowl”, “Johann Mouse” and “Treasure Map Scrap”.

Premise: Tom and Jerry travel the globe by land, sea, and air in this collection of 22 hilarious adventures. From Broadway to outer space, hitch a ride with your favorite cat and mouse for non-stop fun and action. Whether the furry duo is running from an erupting volcano on a tropical island or conducting an orchestra in Hollywood, you can count on laughs the whole way. Sword fights, magic spells, and treasure maps fill these delightful escapades and will have you climbing on board for more expeditions. So grab your luggage and bring the entire family along for a boisterous trip around the world and beyond.

Tom and Jerry: Around the World available on DVD 5/1 http://bit.ly/HYoyUl
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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: dvd, jerry, review, tom, world

Disneynature’s “Chimpanzee” World Premiere Event Giveaway [ENDED]

THANK YOU FOR ENTERING, THE CONTEST HAS ENDED. OUR WINNER HAS BEEN CHOSEN AND NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EVERY WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

To celebrate the release of Disneynature’s “Chimpanzee”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway One (1) family 4-pack of tickets to the WORLD PREMIERE event at AMC Downtown Disney in Orlando FL on April 13th. If you would like to win this once in a lifetime prize, all you have to do is “LIKE” our Facebook page and then post “Disneynature” and the name of your favorite animal. If you’re already a fan of our Facebook page, just head over and post “Disneynature” and the name of your favorite animal. One (1) person will be randomly selected from all entries to win the family 4-pack of tickets.

No purchase necessary.
©2012 Disney Enterprises, Inc.

This giveaway will be open until Sunday April 8th at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States, preferably in the Orlando FL area. Only one entry per person, per household; all other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Media Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email. The winner will need to respond by Monday, April 9th. Good luck and thanks for visiting MediaMikes.com!

WHEN/WHERE:
Friday, April 13, 2012
Red Carpet: 11:00 a.m
Film Screening: 12:00 p.m

AMC Downtown Disney
1500 E. Buena Vista Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

WHAT:
The WORLD PREMIERE of the feature film “Chimpanzee,” Disneynature’s newest True-Life Adventure featuring the wildly entertaining and heart-warming story of Oscar, an enchanting young chimpanzee whose life is caught on camera for the world to share. SAVE THE DATE to join directors Alastair Fothergill (“African Cats” and “Earth”) and Mark Linfield (“Earth”), as well as Dr. Jane Goodall for the celebration.

The WORLD PREMIERE of “Chimpanzee” is part of the Disney Kids and Nature Celebration (April 12-14, 2012, at the Walt Disney World Resort), which recognizes, rewards and inspires lifelong conservation leadership. The Celebration features a host of events, including a special Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund Awards Ceremony that honors five organizations for programs that connect kids to nature, and the Friends for Change Youth Summit.

ABOUT THE MOVIE:
Disneynature takes moviegoers deep into the forests of Africa with “Chimpanzee,” a new True-Life Adventure introducing an adorable young chimpanzee named Oscar and his entertaining approach to life in a remarkable story of family bonds and individual triumph. Oscar’s playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Working together, Oscar’s chimpanzee family—including his mom, Isha, and the group’s savvy leader, Freddy — navigates the complex territory of the forest.

The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimpanzees, who’d rather make mayhem than join their parents for an afternoon nap. But when Oscar’s family is confronted by a rival band of chimpanzees, he is left to fend for himself until a surprising ally steps in and changes his life forever. Directed by Alastair Fothergill (“African Cats” and “Earth”) and Mark Linfield (“Earth”). “Chimpanzee” swings into theaters on April 20, 2012, just in time for Earth Day 2012. “Chimpanzee” is rated G by the MPAA.

See “Chimpanzee” * Save Chimpanzees. See “Chimpanzee” opening week and Disneynature will make a donation to the Jane Goodall Institute to protect chimpanzees today and tomorrow. Visit Disney.com/Chimpanzee for more information.

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Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: chimpanzee, disneynatures, event, giveaway, premiere, world, ...
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