Archive for the 'Blu-ray Reviews' Category
October 14th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
There’s a clear focus currently over at Warner Bros and Warner Archive Collection in restoring the old works of the Hanna Barbara animation that became a lengthy pop culture phenomenon starting in the 1960s. One of their greatest achievements was The Flintstones. Sure, we all know the theme, the characters, tag lines and more. But, think about what impact they’ve had in the fact that we still have Fruity Pebbles as common everyday breakfast cereal and who hasn’t preferred to have Flintstones vitamins when they were a little tyke? No, they don’t have the dominance they once had, but people have never forgotten The Flintstones and they still pass on from generation to generation. Warner Bros is bringing out every episode of the original series that introduced us to them (There were many spin offs as well) onto a beautifully restored Blu-ray release that also includes 2 movies as well (NO, not the live action ones we want to forget). You’ll be able to own it all starting October 27th! Continue reading ‘The Flintstones: The Complete Series (Blu-ray Review)’
October 14th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
About one year ago we were getting to revisit the world of Vince Gilligan’s Breaking Bad in the more present tense or “post-Breaking Bad” once more with El Camino. We’ve currently been living in the pre-Breaking Bad world with the phenomenal Better Call Saul the last five years or so, but now its time to check up on where things were left off. El Camino was a Netflix exclusive film, but as per usual, one year later, you can own it on physical media to go with your Breaking Bad Blu-ray collection. Sony is putting the film out first in a Steelbook Edition. There are plenty of bonus features to go with this beautiful looking package as well, including two commentaries. This was released on October 13th, so its currently available now. Sure, you could always stop in on and watch it on Netflix, but will you always be able to stop in and watch it on Netflix? Make sure that’s not a worry and order yourself a copy from the paid Amazon Associates link at the bottom that follows the review. Continue reading ‘El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie – Steelbook Edition (Blu-ray Review)’
October 14th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
William Shatner’s relationship with Star Trek has been pretty well chronicled and quite a journey for 54 years now. From his contentious relationship with fellow castmates, not understanding the deep Star Trek fan devotion to reconciling and figuring it out and embracing it in his life. He’s also made some films to reflect on his journey and the mentality and study of the series as a pop culture staple. Shout! Factory is putting together these film as a set. It includes The Captains in its film form and extended episodic one. Shatner’s tale of Star Trek: The Next Generation getting off the ground in Chaos On The Bridge. Finally, his tribute to the fandom of the series, his own version of Trekkies, called Get A Life! These will all feature some bonus material and be coming out on October 20th. This is a very nice little set for any Trek fan to have as a bonus to all the episodes and films they likely already have in their collection and the second such Trek documentary item Shout! Factory has put out in the past year.
Continue reading ‘The Captains Collection (Blu-ray Review)’
October 13th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
4K BLUsday reigns supreme again! Who has their Friday the 13th boxed set from Scream Factory already? Not me, I have mine coming from Amazon hopefully Thursday as scheduled. Announcements this week include the huge announcement of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies coming in time for the holidays on 4K. Oh annnnnd…I’m giving away a copy of the new Back To The Future trilogy (On standard Blu-ray…but hey, its a GIVEAWAY!) On the latest episode of 4K BLUsday on The Brandon Peters Show, I go over all of this and more. Listen to the podcast version then watch here or head over to YouTube to see the video companion where I showcase some of today’s new releases as well as new review arrivals for me and more. Remember to subscribe to whatever avenue you choose and not miss out on making this stuff fun to share! Continue reading ‘4K BLUsday for 10/13/2020! BACK TO THE FUTURE GIVEAWAY!’
October 12th, 2020 by Gerard Iribe
Four years after South Korea s total decimation in TRAIN TO BUSAN, the zombie thriller that captivated audiences worldwide, acclaimed director Yeon Sang-ho brings us PENINSULA (on 4K UHD Blu-ray), the next nail-biting chapter in his post-apocalyptic world. Jung-seok, a soldier who previously escaped the diseased wasteland, relives the horror when assigned to a covert operation with two simple objectives: retrieve and survive. When his team unexpectedly stumbles upon survivors, their lives will depend on whether the best or worst of human nature prevails in the direst of circumstances. PENINSULA, available early on Digital October 27 in time for Halloween or on 4K UHD Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD November 24 from Well Go USA Entertainment. Continue reading ‘‘Peninsula’ on 4K UHD Blu-ray November 24, 2020!’
October 9th, 2020 by Gerard Iribe
David (Bobby Soto) and Creeper (Shia LaBeouf), are “tax collectors” for the crime lord Wizard, collecting his cut from the profits of local gangs’ illicit dealings. But when Wizard’s old rival returns to Los Angeles from Mexico, the business is upended, and David finds himself desperate to protect what matters more to him than anything else: his family. Written and directed by David Ayer (Fury, Suicide Squad), the action/thriller stars Bobby Soto (The Quarry, A Better Life), Cinthya Carmona (A Dark Foe), George Lopez (River Runs Red) and Shia LaBeouf (Honey Boy, Fury). The Tax Collector was released in a STEELBOOK 4K UHD Blu-ray Best Buy EXCLUSIVE October 6, 2020. The Tax Collector 4K will be available at other major retailers starting December 8, 2020. Continue reading ‘The Tax Collector (4K UHD Blu-ray Review)’
October 8th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
Warner Archive Collection is adding the 1990 film Reversal of Fortune to their roster for October. Based on a true story, the film tells a tale from a high profile case of law professor Alan Dershowitz and the murder trial of Claus von Bulow. Historically, besides being a well received film, it is notable for being the film that landed Jeremy Irons the Academy Award for Best Actor. The film also earned nominations for Best Director and Best Screenplay Based on Material From Another Medium. It features plenty of familiar faces in the cast sporting early roles in their respective careers. Coming along for the ride as bonus materials are a trailer and a commentary. The film is now available for pre-order. The release date is October the 13th (Oooh, big competition for that Friday the 13th set!), and you can use the paid Amazon Associates link below to pre-order and have upon release. Or you can secure a copy by ordering straight from Warner Archive Collection’s site. Continue reading ‘Reversal Of Fortune (Blu-ray Review)’
October 8th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
Two interesting concepts come together as one in the latest DC Comics Animated Universe film (Going under a “DC Showcase” banner). One of their most requested stories for adaptation is the Death in the Family arc from the late 1980s. You know, the “Death of Robin”. In a nifty little touch, that is almost a fitting tribute of how things went down back then, they are utilizing a choose your own adventure approach to the film, allowing you to pick certain fates which leads to one of seven possible endings. This is a short film, but getting through these unlocks different routes, storylines or takes on similar scenes. In addition to Death in the Family, it features four other DC Showcase shorts. And there are commentaries for everything as a bonus feature. Warner Bros is set to release this on October 13th. It well to know that the digital version does not have the choose your own path option, but does include streamlined versions of some predetermined routes. However, one of the endings is only found on the disc version. Considering the Blu-ray comes with a digital code, why not go this avenue?
Continue reading ‘Batman: Death In The Family (Blu-ray Review)’
October 7th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
When I saw the trailer for Drop Dead Gorgeous and then once the film released in 1999, later on home video, I just poked my nose up and said “nah!” and carried on. Young, adolescent, ignorant and stupid as I was in my youth as a “film lover” and one studying the art. I had heard this film had a pretty solid reputation over the years, and my curiosity to right my wrong of not even giving it a chance back in the day never scratched the itch. Once Warner Archive Collection announced it and offered it up for review, this was my opportunity to finally go back and check out the film. They’ve released it for the first time on the format this week (October 6th is the actual street day), and you can order it from them or the paid Amazon Associates link at the end of the review. Unfortunately, aside from the film’s trailer, there aren’t any old or new extras to be found on the disc. But, fans should rejoice in what is a pretty excellent presentation for the film in its first showing on Blu-ray.
Continue reading ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous (Blu-ray Review)’
October 6th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
4K BLUsday is yet again upon us! Did all your new releases arrive on unscathed? One of mine didn’t! Last week was as packed as the previous, but there were some quality announcements nonetheless. I’m looking VERY forward to the new version of The Godfather III! On the latest episode of 4K BLUsday on The Brandon Peters Show, I go over all of this and more. Listen to the podcast version then watch here or head over to YouTube to see the video companion where I showcase some of today’s new releases as well as new review arrivals for me and more. Remember to subscribe to whatever avenue you choose and not miss out on making this stuff fun to share!
. Continue reading ‘4K BLUsday for 10/6/2020!’
October 6th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
The social media world was set ablaze back when it was announced that Patrick Stewart would be reprising his iconic role of Jean Luc Picard of Star Trek: The Next Generation on a new show for the CBS All Access service. Those not even curious on jumping to check out to discover were all of a sudden like “OH I LOVE CBS! HOW WONDERFUL!”. Simply titled Picard, the show picks up with him well past retirement and spurned on a new quest revolving around his long gone comrade, Data. The featured some familiar faces and a rogue mission for the aged stalwart and warmed the hearts of many a Trekkie. CBS/Paramount are doing the right thing and give them the chance to collect it in physical form when it comes to Blu-ray on October 6th. There are plenty of bonus features to go around, including the Short Treks episode that leads into the show that was not included on the Short Treks compilation Blu-ray from a few months ago. You can ahead and order yourself a copy from the paid Amazon link below.
Continue reading ‘Star Trek: Picard – Season One (Blu-ray Review)’
October 6th, 2020 by Gerard Iribe
RLJE Films, a business unit of AMC Networks, will release the documentary/horror series ELI ROTH’S HISTORY OF HORROR SEASON 1 on October 6, 2020 on DVD and Blu-ray. Award-winning horror film director, writer, producer and actor Eli Roth brings together the masters of horror – the storytellers and stars who define the genre – to explore its biggest themes and reveal the inspirations and struggles behind its past and present. Each one-hour episode will take viewers on a chilling exploration of how horror has evolved through the years and examine the genre’s impact on society as well as delving into how horror maintains its fan base and why audiences are addicted to fear. Interviewees include Stephen King, Quentin Tarantino, Linda Blair and many others. Eli Roth’s History of Horror Season 1 will be released on Blu-ray October 6, 2020! Read our Blu-ray review now! Continue reading ‘Eli Roth’s ‘History of Horror’ Season 1 (Blu-ray Review)’
October 6th, 2020 by Gerard Iribe
In THE PALE DOOR, the Dalton gang find shelter in a seemingly uninhabited ghost town after a train robbery goes south. Seeking help for their wounded leader, they are surprised to stumble upon a welcoming brothel in the town’s square. But the beautiful women who greet them are actually a coven of witches with very sinister plans for the unsuspecting outlaws – and the battle between good and evil is just beginning. Directed by Aaron B. Koontz (Scare Package) who also co-wrote the script with Cameron Burns (Camera Obscura) and Keith Lansdale (“Creepshow”), THE PALE DOOR stars Devin Druid (“13 Reasons Why”), Zachary Knighton (“Happy Endings”), Noah Segan (Knives Out), Stan Shaw (The Monster Squad), Pat Healy (Cheap Thrills), Bill Sage (We Are What We Are), Melora Walters (“PEN15”, Magnolia) and Natasha Bassett (Hail, Caesar!). The Pale Door is released on Blu-ray & DVD October 6, 2020! Read our Pale Door Blu-ray review now! Continue reading ‘The Pale Door (Blu-ray Review)’
October 5th, 2020 by Brandon Peters
I’m not sure it was even planned for theatrical release to begin with, but the 2020 musical redress of 1983’s Valley Girl was one of the pandemic lockdowns brand new premium on demand offerings back in May. As a big fan of the original, I didn’t know how to feel about it, but casting Jessica Rothe of Happy Death Day fame in the lead had me at least interested in it. I’m not so sure how it faired money making-wise, but I didn’t notice too much buzz about it when it came out. There was a little chatter over the weekend, but that’s about it. Nevertheless, I found myself curious and when the offer to review it came up, I took the bait. The film is arriving in pretty bare bones fashion. You get the movie with one audio, one subtitle stream and a digital copy code to redeem. That’ really it. Its priced fairly, but you’d hope there’d be more confidence. You can go back to the 80s and have yourself a jam when the film arrives October 5th.
Continue reading ‘Valley Girl (2020) (Blu-ray Review)’
October 5th, 2020 by Brian White
It should be no surprise to anyone that the dynamic duo, hilarious tag team of Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum reprised their respective roles from 2012 in the appropriately titled 22 Jump Street (I’ll expand upon that more down below). I last talked about 21 Jump Street in my Blu-ray review over HERE in 2012 and just recently again in my 4K review of it HERE. I’m happy to report that I still have not seen a single episode from the original television series, but I’ve studied enough pop culture and seen enough comedies to pick up on references here and there. I’m smart like that, but I’m probably still missing out on a few gags here or there. However, make no mistake. I wasn’t looking forward to this one very much going into it theatrically. Like the sequel to the original Hangover film I had my doubts and wondered if this second outing would simply be a cash grab with the same story, etc. set in a different locale. Even if it was, I’d probably laugh, but I want so much more in life. I deserve more. Hear me roar! So the question that really matters is did I get what I was looking for? Check out the full 22 Jump Street 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray review below to find out! Continue reading ’22 Jump Street (4K UHD Blu-ray Review)’
October 5th, 2020 by Aaron Neuwirth
What once was gone, now is found. Jean-Luc Godard’s Pierrot le Fou was one of the Criterion Collection’s first Blu-ray releases in 2009 before the rights were lost to StudioCanal. That initial release may be a collector’s item, but for those who want to see the film with a deluxe Criterion treatment, this re-release brings back the experimental French New Wave film with a new 2K digital restoration for all to view and enjoy. It may still be a confounding effort for some, but it looks excellent seeing this 60s film that was far ahead of its time.
– Continue reading ‘Pierrot Le Fou – The Criterion Collection (Blu-ray Review)’
October 5th, 2020 by Aaron Neuwirth
I guess I am a sucker for the Die Hard formula. Sure, there are many duds when it comes to matching that sort of film in spirit, but it’s a tight concept that can allow for a level of tension, some eccentric bad guys, and a tough lead performance. The Doorman isn’t the best at replicating this concept, but it’s far from the worse. It’s entirely acceptable, with enough fun moments to work as a decent time waster. That may not sound like the best sort of praise, but honestly, sometimes you just want to turn on a straightforward action flick to watch, and this Ruby Rose action-vehicle does the job.
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Continue reading ‘The Doorman (Blu-ray Review)’
October 2nd, 2020 by Brandon Peters
Here’s a fun addition to the Warner Archive Collection as a sort of primer in the month before the big The Flinstones complete set comes out. Before Space Ghost was an intergalactic talk show host on Adult Swim via Space Ghost: Coast to Coast, he was policing the galaxy in Space Ghost and Dino Boy. Yes, everything with it is stone faced serious as a fun Saturday morning toon for 1960s children, but it retroactively plays almost funny as the intentionally comedied Adult Swim follow up. Its a half hour progame with 2 short Space Ghost adventures and 1 featureing a character called Dino Boy that I personally don’t remember much at all of. This 2-disc set includes every episode from the series’ run and a feature length documentary about the life and career of Alex Toth, the artist who crafted the character of Space Ghost as well as many comic book and Hanna Barbara characters over the years. It arrives on October 13th, but you can pre-order via the paid Amazon Associates link below.
Continue reading ‘Space Ghost And Dino Boy: The Complete Series (Blu-ray Review)’