Archive Page 247
December 15th, 2016 by Aaron Neuwirth
In March, Criterion will be celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of
Blow-Up, Michelangelo Antonioni’s existential portrait of swinging-sixties London, with a special edition packed with supplements. It’ll be joined by John Waters’ outrageous take on American counterculture
Multiple Maniacs, a filth-spattered spectacle never before available on home video. We’re also proud to present the first-ever U.S. release of Felipe Cazals’s
Canoa: A Shameful Memory, a searing assault on the Mexican church and state that left its mark on a generation of Mexican filmmakers. Subtler wonders abound in
45 Years, Andrew Haigh’s devastating portrait of a marriage, with career-topping performances from Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay. And director Hal Ashby adds a sly satirical touch to the month with
Being There, a poker-faced fable starring Peter Sellers, Shirley MacLaine, and Melvyn Douglas.
Continue reading ‘Blow-Up, Being There and More Coming to The Criterion Collection in March 2017’
December 15th, 2016 by Gerard Iribe
Another year-end Top Blu-ray list is upon us. Again, like last year’s Top Blu-ray list, I have removed the order of titles in terms of numbering system, with the exception of the #1 spot. We have a clear winner in that department and it is a doozy. All of the other titles are placed in no particular order. I should also clarify and say that if you don’t see a Blu-ray or Blu-ray set on this list it that you may think deserves to be on here – it may be because I have not watched it. I have a backlog of titles that I’ve yet to watch, so it’s nothing personal. Without further ado, I present my Top Blu-ray list of 2016! Continue reading ‘Gerard’s Top Blu-ray List of 2016!’
December 14th, 2016 by Aaron Neuwirth
It’s strange how Collateral Beauty is almost a novel idea for a film. Somehow packing a bunch of talented actors into a film set during the December holiday season that isn’t a comedy has become a rare commodity. The film is a straight drama that holds its sincerity close to its heart, even if that means embracing its ridiculous concept. However, that ridiculous concept also means the film is an original. If only the story managed to place more meaning in its title phrase, rather than keeping this cast so busy with subplots. Collateral Beauty attempts to do the job of letting good actors act, they just have to be involved in this plot about grief and the lengths friends to go to in an effort to help.
Continue reading ‘The Vague Dramatic Expression That Is ‘Collateral Beauty’ (Movie Review)’
December 14th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
Scream Factory is unleashing the definitive editions of two supernatural horror classics with the release of the Collector’s Editions of Poltergeist II and Poltergeist III on January 31st, 2017. The suspenseful saga of Carol Anne and the Freeling family continues in these follow- up films to the smash hit Poltergeist, and are filled with spectacular special effects, memorable scares and a genuinely creepy villain. These scary sequels both include DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 tracks and come loaded with brand-new bonus features, including new 2k scans of the inter-positive, audio commentaries, interviews, behind-the-scenes featurettes and more! Continue reading ‘POLTERGEIST Sequels Scare Up Collector’s Edition Blu-rays On January 31st!’
December 14th, 2016 by Aaron Neuwirth
Just in time for the upcoming live-action film starring Scarlett Johansson, the groundbreaking anime film
Ghost in the Shell arrives on Blu-ray + Digital HD with limited-edition Mondo key art in collectible Steelbook packaging from Anchor Bay Entertainment on
March 14, 2017. The groundbreaking anime celebrated the 25
thanniversary of the original Manga in 2014 (
Blu-ray Review Here). Directed by legendary anime director Mamoru Oshii,
Ghost in the Shell questions human existence in the fast-paced world of the information age, this award-winning, cyber-tech thriller has established itself as one of the leading Japanese animation films of all time.
a
December 14th, 2016 by Brian White
Unlike last year, this was a brave, bold, new world for me in terms of Blu-ray collecting. I upped my game as I stepped into the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray arena. I took on the combatants (HDMI handshake and audio sync issues being most problematic) like a champion and came out unscathed. You can read all about my trials and tribulations with my new 4K Ultra HD gear (my first setup) right here. Being the only reviewer on the staff here for a long time with 4K Ultra HD compatibility has been both a blessing and a curse. It put me in a situation of being the proprietary reviewer of all 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray titles (see an archive of reviews here). I have to admit though, it enables me to grow my 4K collection cost-effectively and an accelerated rate. So there’s always that. However, it does mean regardless of what title it is, you’re stuck with reviewing it no matter how painful the viewing experience is. I’m looking at you Ice Age: Collision Course (thank you Brandon), Independence Day: Resurgence, Warcraft and The Huntsman: Winter War. You have to be able to take the good with the bad and appreciate what you have in life. So that’s what I do! Continue reading ‘Brian’s TOP 10 Favorable 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Titles of 2016′
December 13th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
Legendary action star Steven Seagal returns to deliver justice in Contract to Kill, an explosive, heart-pounding action-thriller that will be available on Blu-ray (plus Digital HD), DVD and Digital HD on February 28 from Lionsgate. The film is currently available On Demand. Seagal stars as John Harmon, a CIA/DEA enforcer who embarks on an international mission to prevent an attack on America. Contract to Kill is directed by Keoni Waxman (End of a Gun, Killing Salazar), and features standout performances from Russell Wong and Jemma Dallender. Contract to Kill will be available on Blu-ray and DVD.
.
Continue reading ‘Steven Seagal Signs a CONTRACT TO KILL On Blu-ray February 28th’
December 13th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
In this 2016 World Series Collector’s Edition: Chicago Cubs set, Cubs fans everywhere can relive the team’s entire white-knuckle postseason run. The 8-disc set preserves every inning, every play and every heart-stopping moment from the 2016 Fall Classic – from “spiritual” team leader David Ross’ dramatic home run in the final game of his career, Jake Arrieta and Jon Lester’s masterful performances on the mound to Kris Bryant’s final, thrilling 5-3 put-out to Anthony Rizzo. This special edition presents all seven complete and uncut World Series games, all wrapped with SleeveStats which offer official stats, game trivia and more to enhance the viewing experience. Also included are a bonus disc of the pennant-clinching NLCS Game 6 at Wrigley Field, as well as four audio options, allowing home audiences to watch the games while listening to either the television broadcast, Cubs Radio Network announcers, the Indians Radio Network or a Spanish-language version of the broadcasts. This December, fly the W and celebrate the Cubs history-making run to the championship with these two ultimate mementos from one of the most exciting postseasons in a generation. Continue reading ‘2016 World Series Collector’s Edition: Chicago Cubs (Blu-ray Review)’
December 13th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
When I first received word of this Blu-ray release was actually the first time I’d even heard of this show. There seemed to be no buzz, no push or anything about it. That, or marketing and noteworthy news didn’t spread past the age of seven. I was quite surprised a Star Wars thing I hadn’t heard about was coming to Blu-ray. Granted, its LEGO Star Wars, but its original character in a series that isn’t just a complete parody. I’d seen the other short series LEGO Star Wars had done on Disney XD and this wasn’t it. So, its with great curiosity that I would be checking out the first season of LEGO Star Wars: The Freemakers completely blind, and yes, with the blast shield down. Continue reading ‘LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures – Season One (Blu-ray Review)’
December 13th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
One of the world’s most beloved fairy tales comes spectacularly to life in Christophe Gans’ epic fantasy adventure Beauty and the Beast (La belle et la bête). Starring Vincent Cassel (Jason Bourne, Black Swan) and Léa Seydoux (Spectre, Blue Is the Warmest Color), Beauty and The Beast is a visually opulent modern take on the classic French fairytale. Making its home entertainment debut from Shout! Factory on February 21st, 2017 as a Blu-ray+DVD+Digital Download combo pack and on all major Digital and On Demand platforms, this lush and vibrant cinematic adventure also comes loaded with bonus features, including an interview with director Christophe Gans, interviews with Léa Seydoux and Vincent Cassel, and the theatrical trailer. Fans of this gorgeous adaptation can pre-order their copies now by visiting ShoutFactory.com. Continue reading ‘Christophe Gans’ Epic Fantasy Adventure BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (La belle et la bête) Available on Blu-ray February 27th!’
December 13th, 2016 by Aaron Neuwirth
The first season of Fear the Walking Dead came and went in 6 episodes, exploring a couple families and other random people coming together in the midst of a zombie apocalypse that devastated Los Angeles. The second season continued to move things forward, as we followed our characters onto a boat and saw where things led from there. With seemingly more confidence behind the series, the show now has a full 15-episode season, which is packaged in this Blu-ray set, along with plenty of extras.
a
a Continue reading ‘Fear The Walking Dead: The Complete Second Season (Blu-ray Review)’
December 13th, 2016 by Aaron Neuwirth
Right now we are seeing Disney test out a concept. With plans to deliver a new Star Wars film every year, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is the result of moving beyond the episodic entries and into new territory. Sure, there have been novels, TV shows, comics and games that have expanded the universe (not to mention a couple Ewok movies), but this is something new. Fortunately, riding in on the wave of throwback fun that was The Force Awakens, Rogue One succeeds at being more than just a concept that’s fun to say out loud. This standalone story fits in well with the universe, while also serving as its own filmmaking effort.
a Continue reading ‘‘Rogue One’ Is Disney’s Latest Superweapon (Movie Review)’
December 12th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
Have the time of your life when the Dirty Dancing: 30th Anniversary Edition arrives on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD, along with a special Limited Collector’s Edition Box Set, on February 7, 2017, featuring all new bonus material. The classic will also return to theaters on January 29 and February 1, 2017 for a 30th anniversary presentation from Fathom Events and Lionsgate. Dirty Dancing stars Patrick Swayze (Ghost), Jennifer Grey (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off), Jerry Orbach ( TV’s “Law & Order”), Cynthia Rhodes (Flashdance), Kelly Bishop (TV’s “Gilmore Girls”), and Jack Weston (The Thomas Crown Affair).
. Continue reading ‘Have The Time Of Your Life And Owe It All To The 30th Anniversary DIRTY DANCING Blu-ray February 7th!’
December 12th, 2016 by Gerard Iribe
Set in and around Memphis in the early 1970’s, Season 1 of this thrilling series centers on Mac Conway, a stigmatized Marine who finds himself lured into a lucrative offer from The Broker, a shady criminal involved in a network of killing and corruption. Continue reading ‘Quarry: The Complete First Season (Digital HD Review)’
December 12th, 2016 by Blu-ray Brian
AMC’s fan favorite chilling and tension-filled original series, “FEAR THE WALKING DEAD: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON” arrives on Blu-ray + Digital HD and DVD on December 13 from Anchor Bay Entertainment. “Fear the Walking Dead”, executive produced by showrunner Dave Erickson, Robert Kirkman, Gale Anne Hurd, Greg Nicotero and David Alpert and starring Kim Dickens as Madison, Cliff Curtis as Travis, Frank Dillane as Nick, Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia, Rubén Blades as Daniel, Mercedes Mason as Ofelia, Lorenzo James Henrie as Chris and Colman Domingo as Strand, premiered its critically acclaimed second season on Sunday, April 10th with the second half of the season debuting on Sunday, August 21st. Al that seems like history. Let’s live in the now! We now have two Blu-rays of Season 2 here to give away. Read on to find out how you can win.
Continue reading ‘Fear The Walking Dead Season 2 Blu-ray Giveaway Contest!’
December 11th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
Ever the polarizing filmmaker, one can’t deny that Rob Zombie has a distinct vision and very blunt voice in the world of cinema. Despite whatever misgivings, like him or not, its hard to take not of his talent. Coming from similar influences and styles, he’s almost the horror genre’s version of Quentin Tarantino. After dabbling in the Halloween universe with Michael Myers, his last two films have gone in much smaller offerings in terms of releases. The Lords of Salem was more a festival film with a very limited release and his latest, 31 went crowd funded and launched on Amazon Prime Video (Also having a small theatrical run). These are the times we live in, but if a filmmaker of Zombie’s caliber is still able to get his ideas across and make the film he truly wants, then I guess delivery shouldn’t be too important (Though, for me its always theater whenever I can). So here we are, the Blu-ray release of 31. Continue reading ’31 (Blu-ray Review)’
December 11th, 2016 by Brandon Peters
Previously available from Image Entertainment, Paramount Home Entertainment is bringing back The Twilight Zone to Blu-ray. Yes, all 156 episodes of the landmark historic television anthology series are once again being collected together. This is a massive set, including bonus mater, that spans over 5 years of the show airing on television and covering over 24 discs. The set is coming along just in time for the holidays (Will make a great gift for that loved one) and will be available December 13th. So, get ready to hum that theme song and embrace those twisted and dark endings we’ve come to love, admire and be inspired by. Continue reading ‘The Twilight Zone: The Complete Series (Blu-ray Review)’
December 11th, 2016 by Aaron Neuwirth
Hidden Figures is the kind of winning biopic I can easily champion. It joins a film like Queen of Katwe from earlier this fall, in presenting a story I was not too informed about, with enough confidence to easily please those in search of a good story. The film does little to distance itself from other historical dramas of its nature, but a mainstream film like this that matches up well to the many other films about famous white men who overcame adversity is worth giving notice to. That this film accomplishes so much by focusing on smart women who prove themselves by being good at their work and kind is just a testament to a film that can make certain subjects so cinematically interesting.
a Continue reading ‘Courage Seen In ‘Hidden Figures’ (Movie Review)’
In March, Criterion will be celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of Blow-Up, Michelangelo Antonioni’s existential portrait of swinging-sixties London, with a special edition packed with supplements. It’ll be joined by John Waters’ outrageous take on American counterculture Multiple Maniacs, a filth-spattered spectacle never before available on home video. We’re also proud to present the first-ever U.S. release of Felipe Cazals’s Canoa: A Shameful Memory, a searing assault on the Mexican church and state that left its mark on a generation of Mexican filmmakers. Subtler wonders abound in 45 Years, Andrew Haigh’s devastating portrait of a marriage, with career-topping performances from Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay. And director Hal Ashby adds a sly satirical touch to the month with Being There, a poker-faced fable starring Peter Sellers, Shirley MacLaine, and Melvyn Douglas.
