Archive Page 362
December 17th, 2014 by Brandon Peters
We’ve come to the end of an impressive run of Blu-rays from CBS and Paramount with the release of Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season 7. A three year mission, that is. Now, the complete Original Series, Next Generation Series and Enterprise Series are all available on Blu-ray with glorious and stunning high definition picture quality. Seriously, one look at the remastering on these and you’ll be pretty stunned, especially with what they’ve done to The Original Series (We’re talking almost modern quality here). The big question now is whether or not they will go forth and start bringing the “ahead of its time” Deep Space Nine faction to Blu-ray. That is something that is in the air. Apparently CBS and Paramount are really eager and wanting to pull the trigger on it, but its a risk as the show has a big following, but not as much as the first two series. From what I’ve read, the way you can let them know you want it is by speaking with your wallet and purchasing the Blu-rays that are already out there (Petitions do you no good as those are pretty much “false promises” by many who sign). As I close out this fine series, I cross my fingers hoping Deep Space Nine is coming soon, and with the 50th anniversary of Star Trek right around the corner, it’d be the perfect treat. Continue reading ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation – Season 7 / All Good Things (Blu-ray Review)’
December 17th, 2014 by Aaron Neuwirth
The second cinematic Middle-Earth trilogy has ended and now we are back where we started in 2002. I am happy for those who are excited to rewatch The Lord of the Rings trilogy, following this ‘defining chapter,’ but I am left with other curiosities. Having never read J.R.R Tolkien’s The Hobbit, I am curious about whether or not audiences who enjoyed what I am aware is a reasonably amusing book for a younger crowd were hoping to see a blood-thirsty final film to close this three-film adaptation. My impression, after first learning of the films that we would be getting was that of an understanding that we’d be dealing with more light-hearted Middle-Earth adventures. I did not get much of that in the previous Hobbit films and certainly not with The Battle of the Five Armies, but that would be less of an issue, if the movie was still good, regardless. Well, it’s not bad, but as much as I like seeing lots of action on display, there is a point where enough is enough, and with this film…well I’m just happy “One Last Time” is part of its mantra.
Continue reading ‘‘The Hobbit: The Battle’ of Kill Kill, Stab Stab (Movie Review)’
December 16th, 2014 by Brian White
From what I can tell, Horns is going to be like Jennifer’s Body. It carries that same tone and vibe, but what I’m really getting at is the fact that you’re really going to love it or you’re going to absolutely hate it. I really can’t see anyone stuck in the dead middle here. However, that’s just my initial thoughts after having just watched Horns for the first time. I know and have read many accounts of people praising Horns for daring to be something different and bold. Regardless, I am a huge fan of what Alexandre Aja has brought us in the past so I decided to tackle Horns on Blu-ray this holiday season, if for nothing else than just utter curiosity. Continue reading ‘Horns (Blu-ray Review)’
December 16th, 2014 by Aaron Neuwirth
I had fun with this film. There is more to read, but how much do I really need to say about the third film in a series about Ben Stiller interacting with museum exhibits that come to life at night, thanks to the power of a magic tablet? Okay, so maybe that sentence alone can be deconstructed plenty, given how absurd it may sound, but with that in mind, I cannot say the Night at the Museum franchise has been one I have been overly enthusiastic about, but I can say I’ve enjoyed the sequels more than the original film. They are simple enough family comedies, featuring enough supporting performances going over-the-top in ways that make me smile to recommend them for what they are: harmless fun. Given the sense of finality in this installment, a little extra something is added, but for the most part, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb may not be the sequel everyone has been pining for, but it is an easy watch for the intended audience.
Continue reading ‘‘Night At the Museum’: London Drift (Movie Review)’
December 16th, 2014 by Blu-ray Brian
If you don’t come out of your John Wick viewing pumped up, then there’s something wrong with you medically speaking. The film has it all: money, cars (oh the American muscles cars), gangs, guns, girls, violence, puppies, loud rock music and some good old-fashioned hardcore action, something sorely missing from most flicks nowadays because of that watered down PG-13 BS that has saturated our markets to pack in seats for sheer greed only. John Wick really is that breath of fresh air you’ve been looking for. It’s not a perfect film by any means, but it’s up there as one of the best times I had at the theater this year and I’m really looking forward to revisiting it again as soon as humanly possible. And that time is this February folks! Read on… Continue reading ‘John Wick Lets The Good Times Roll on Blu-ray This February!’
December 16th, 2014 by Aaron Neuwirth
The chance to see a director switch gears and focus on something far separated from their previous work can be exciting. As a Tim Burton fan, I do not fault him for making a lot of films that seem right up his alley. That the recent output has not been as compelling as the films in his past is unfortunate, but now we have Big Eyes, which reteams Burton with the writers of Ed Wood, arguably Tim Burton’s best feature film. The resulting product is a smaller scale, more personal story than anything Burton has been involved with in quite some time, featuring two strong, lead performances. It is not an over-the-top fantasy, but a drama that delves into the worth of one’s identity.
Continue reading ‘There Are Colorful Lies In Burton’s ‘Big Eyes’ (Movie Review)’
December 16th, 2014 by Gerard Iribe
A horror sensation returns when the modern, spine-chilling reboot of Más Negro Que La Noche arrives on DVD (plus Digital), Digital HD and On Demand January 27 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment and Pantelion, the studio behind Instructions Not Included and Cantinflas. Featuring an all-star Latin cast including Zuria Vega, Adriana Louvier, Eréndira Ibarra, Ona Casamiquela and Margarita Sanz, with Josémaría Torre Hütt, Lucia Guilmain, Hernán Mendoza and a special appearance by Miguel Rodarte, the frightening horror story, based on the Mexican cult classic, is centered around four young women trapped in a sinister mansion. Directed by Henry Bedwell (Avisos de Ocasión). When Greta (Vega) inherits her eccentric aunt’s old mansion, she invites three girlfriends to move in with her. Their one requirement is to care for her aunt’s beloved black cat. But when they fail miserably at this one task, they end up awakening the house’s demons, and what was about to be the best summer of their lives quickly escalates to a horrific fight for their lives. Continue reading ‘‘Mas Negro Que La Noche’ on DVD & Digital HD January 27th!’
December 16th, 2014 by Gerard Iribe
From best-selling author Stephen King comes Big Driver, arriving on DVD (plus Digital) January 27th from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. Starring Golden Globe® nominee Maria Bello (A History of Violence), Academy Award® winner Olympia Dukakis (Best Actress in a Supporting Role, Moonstruck, 1987) and Grammy® nominated rocker Joan Jett, Big Driver is a dark story of a young novelist hell-bent on revenge after falling victim to a brutal crime. With a teleplay by Richard Christian Matheson and directed by Mikael Salomon. Tess Thorne, a famous writer, faces a long drive home following a book signing. While driving on a lonely New England road, her tire blows out, leaving her stranded. Relieved when another driver stops and offers assistance, Tess quickly discovers her savior is actually a serial killer who repeatedly assaults her. She is determined to find her rapist and seek revenge, as payback is the only thing holding her together.
Continue reading ‘‘Big Driver’ on DVD & Digital HD January 27th!’
December 16th, 2014 by Brandon Peters
Memory on this one is very hazy. It was many many moons and video store trips ago that I saw this. But, what attracted me to this one was that it had Robert England and was from the director of Halloween 4: The Return Of Michael Myers (Dwight H. Little). This version of Phantom Of The Opera also employs one of my all time favorite scream queens in Jill Schoelen. You might remember her from stuff like The Stepfather, Cutting Class or Popcorn. One of the best things going for this Phantom Of The Opera is that it does not feature Gerard Butler singing! Scream Factory is putting it out with an all new behind the scenes featurette, which I always really enjoy digging into those. Especially this one will have a lot of the major players brought back. Its coming out on February 17th (Originally planned for January for those who don’t follow Scream Factory), and today we have details and a pre-order available! Continue reading ‘Scream Factory Unveils THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA – Coming February 17, 2015!’
December 16th, 2014 by Aaron Neuwirth
I am not only excited for this release, but for the fact that it includes both versions of the film. Check it: Anchor Bay Entertainment and The Weinstein Company are proud to announce the home entertainment release of Ned Benson’s emotionally thrilling film, THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELEANOR RIGBY. Audiences can own this inspired example of “groundbreaking cinema” (Sasha Stone, Awards Daily) on digital download on January 23, 2015before heading to DVD, Blu-Ray™ and On Demand February 3, 2015. Both the DVD and Blu-Ray™ include bonus films, THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELEANOR RIGBY: HIM and THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELEANOR RIGBY: HER, giving the consumer the complete picture of the story as it was intended to be seen.
Continue reading ‘Chastain & McAvoy In THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELEANOR RIGBY, This February On Blu-ray (All Cuts Of The Film)’
December 16th, 2014 by Brian White
Unlike recent years, I really didn’t acquire as many Blu-ray titles in 2014 as I typically do in a 12-month calendar. Sure there are Blu-ray titles that I reviewed and held onto, but the others made their way into my collection when they were either priced exceptionally well (mostly horror sets I never grabbed before) or “Day 1” titles that I just couldn’t live without (X-Men: Days of Future Past and Sin City: A Dame to Kill For instantly come to mind). However, for this TOP 10 list, I’m gonna make things super simple with the following three criteria. The below mentioned Blu-ray titles, whether they be films or television series, were all released in the calendar year of 2014 and are all in my personal collection, but for one reason or another whether it be replay value, presentation, packaging or whatnot, they are my favorite Blu-rays of 2014. Let’s get started! Continue reading ‘TOP 10: Brian White’s Most Obsessed Over Blu-rays of 2014′
December 15th, 2014 by Aaron Neuwirth
XLrator Media announces the DVD, Blu-ray and VOD release of the Jimi Hendrix biopic, JIMI: ALL IS BY MY SIDE. Directed by Academy Award Winner John Ridley (12 Years a Slave), the film stars André Benjamin (Musician, Outkast), Hayley Atwell (Captain America), Imogen Poots (Need for Speed, That Awkward Moment) and Ruth Negga (ABC’s “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”). JIMI: ALL IS BY MY SIDE will be available on DVD and Blu-ray on January 13, 2015. Continue on to learn more about this upcoming release.
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d Continue reading ‘JIMI: ALL IS BY MY SIDE Drops On Blu-ray And DVD This January’
December 15th, 2014 by Brian White
Truth be told I wanted nothing to do with The Equalizer when it came out theatrically. I even went as far as to not make any plans to attend the press screening of it when it dropped in my area. What kind of reviewer does that? I can tell you. It’s a bad one. I guess it all harkens back to the fact that whenever I heard this film being tossed around while in production my mind instantly drifted to an elder white man (Edward Woodard) from the television series back in the mid 80’s, not the bada$$ that Academy Award winner Denzel Washington really could be circa his Oscar-winning Training Day era. If it wasn’t for a bad day this past November, which resulted in a trip to the cinema to see The Equalizer, I may not have reviewed this Blu-ray, but instead passed it along to another reviewer to cover because of my stupid arrogance and ignorance. It’s funny how fate works in mysterious ways. Continue reading ‘The Equalizer (Blu-ray Review)’
December 14th, 2014 by Gerard Iribe
“When their father passes away, four grown siblings bruised and banged up by their respective adult live are forced to return to their childhood home and live under the same roof.” Looking at it from that angle one would say that it makes for some awkwardness but when you see who the cast of characters is then that just compounds the situation in a big way. The proverbial hijinks will ensue moniker definitely comes to mind when visiting This Is Where I Leave You. With a cast like this I would not doubt it. Continue reading ‘This Is Where I Leave You (Blu-ray Review)’
December 14th, 2014 by Aaron Neuwirth
The Skeleton Twins is the kind of film that features a few actors giving the kind of performances that make it look easy. Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig are best known for their work on Saturday Night Live, but clearly have aspirations to delve into more dramatic work, better showing off their range as performers. It is one thing to find the humor in certain scenes, but it is another to make that humor play in scenes that come in between some heavy dramatic material. This is a film that features some really dark material, but is able to develop a story that can follow a fairly formulaic level of plotting and still succeed, based on the confidence of the actors involved and the filmmakers working behind the scenes. As a result, The Skeleton Twins works as a sad comedy for the art house crowd and manages to rise above the easy complaints about these sort of family-focused stories.
Continue reading ‘The Skeleton Twins (Blu-ray Review)’
December 13th, 2014 by Brian White
Tusk is one of those rare gems where if you never heard of it before and accidentally stumble upon the film’s trailer you secretly say to yourself I just got to see it, if for nothing else, the shock value. However, I know what you’re all thinking. Is it worth 90-minutes of your life? To some people that’s quite an investment in time. The parents of the world will understand what I’m rambling on about and questioning here, but fret not! The answer to my question is exactly what we are all gathered here to talk about today. Seeing Tusk on Blu-ray was the first time I viewed the film so down below you’re going to learn everything you’v ever waned to know about the movie and its production history, plus my valuable insights on the topic too. Continue reading ‘Tusk (Blu-ray Review)’
December 12th, 2014 by Brandon Peters
Did you miss out on
mean jerk time, “one of the longest and finest dick jokes in TV history” (EW.com)? Or perhaps you didn’t hear the Vice President offer to use tampons to fix a nose bleed in a public bathroom? Find out what all the funny is about when
Silicon Valley: The Complete First Season and
Veep: The Complete Third Season debut on Blu-ray and DVD March 31, 2015 (both are currently available on Digital HD now). One of the breakout comedies of the year,
Silicon Valley takes a hilarious look at the world of tech startups, where Google is god and the skills to succeed in the industry don’t necessarily guarantee success in the real world. Co-created by Mike Judge, the comedic genius behind
Beavis & Butthead, Office Space and
King of the Hill, the show features a top-notch cast and is packed with laughs from start to finish. Season 3 of
VEEP finds Vice President Selina Meyer (Emmy® Award winner Julia Louis-Dreyfus) stumping for an autobiography she didn’t write, traveling abroad to strengthen her foreign policy experience, and proving that – without a doubt – she is not anti-gun. All the while, her hapless staff does their best to hold everything together as she makes her bid to take over the Oval Office. Continue reading ‘HBO Home Entertainment Announces Silicon Valley And Veep: The Complete Third Season’
December 12th, 2014 by Brian White
The Hobbit The Battle of the Five Armies is the film both fans of The Hobbit franchise have been anxiously waiting for and the moviegoers that do not care too much about the saga and just want it to finally come to an end. However, to me it’s so much more. Whether you read the books or not, I haven’t, The Hobbit The Battle of the Five Armies is nothing more than the Revenge of the Sith of the Lord of the Rings series. I think y’all know what I mean when I say that. No matter how you slice it the events of this film we’re here to discuss today had to fit together like bookends to the trilogy that came before it. When it comes to movies like this that can be both a blessing and a curse. While this one is nothing more than a two-hour action romp, and when you are talking these films that’s nothing but a good thing, there’s also inherent problems within this one too. Read on… Continue reading ‘The Hobbit The Battle of the Five Armies Finally All Sign A Peace Treaty (Movie Review)’
