Archive Page 496
September 4th, 2012 by Gerard Iribe
We’re taking a step back today and bringing some low budget DTV on DVD into the light with our next review for something called Rogue River. Rogue River comes to us from Lionsgate’s vast DTV vault. The film stars Bill Moseley and Michelle Page. The film is also produced by that grown up tyke Zachary Bryan (the oldest son from television’s Home Imporvement), so something like this definitely lends itself to a certain sense of gravitas, if you will. In the grand scheme of things will Rogue River make it up the creek or will it sink in shallow water? Keep it here, folks. Continue reading ‘Rogue River (DVD Review)’
September 3rd, 2012 by Gerard Iribe
Boy, does time fly when you’re reviewing anything and everything in between. It’s only been 15 years since Titanic opened in theaters to critical and box-office acclaim cementing the careers of a certain director (not that it hadn’t already been cemented in place, but carte blanche would be given for every project thereafter) and a certain movie star. And here I am 15 years later reviewing the Titanic Blu-ray. We’ve all seen the parodies, the jokes, the film itself, over and over, but hindsight is 20/20, so how does Titanic stack up now? Will the Blu-ray sink or swim? That’s what we’re going to find out. Continue reading ‘Titanic (Blu-ray Review)’
September 3rd, 2012 by Jami Ferguson
Miss Scarlet in the billiard room with the rope? Or did the butler do it? Prepare for murder, madness, mystery and mayhem as the killer comedy Clue made its Blu-ray debut on August 7, 2012 from Paramount Home Media Distribution. Based on the world-famous Parker Brothers board game, Clue boasts an all-star cast including Tim Curry, Christopher Lloyd, Madeline Kahn, Eileen Brennan, Martin Mull, Michael McKean and Lesley Ann Warren. When six guests arrive at a strange house they soon discover that they have more in common than they suspected, including the fact that they are all being blackmailed by the mysterious Mr. Boddy. But when their host turns up dead and the accusations fly, it’s anyone’s guess who done it. With seven suspects, six weapons, five bodies and three endings, Clue is an uproarious mystery that will keep you guessing—and laughing—until the very end. Continue reading ‘Clue: The Movie (Blu-ray Review)’
September 3rd, 2012 by Gregg Senko
Last week I had the luxury of being able to attend a few days of the Star Wars Celebration VI convention in Orlando, Florida. There were some incredible moments such as seeing George Lucas in person, meeting the great Ian McDiarmid, but then there was also one very informative discussion panel titled “Why We Love the Prequels.” What I thought was going to be a series of video clips from Episodes I, II and III in that panel turned out to be so much more. I was initially just going to share this with my fellow WSB writers via email, but then thought, hey, it’s Star Wars. Why save it for just us?
Continue reading ‘Star Wars: Why We Love the Prequels’
September 2nd, 2012 by Gerard Iribe
Now that horror fans have the backstory on the Hillbilly Cannibal’s “Bloody Beginnings”, the franchise rejoins the infamous disfigured brothers as they return when WRONG TURN 5: BLOODLINES debuts on unrated Blu-ray, DVD and, for the first time ever, Digital Copy on October 23 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. This all-new terrifying film boasts the talent of horror movie veteran Doug Bradley (Hellraiser), along with Game of Thrones’ Roxanne McKee. The cutting-edge terror continues when a small mining town hosts the legendary Mountain Man Festival on Halloween, where crowds of costumed partygoers gather for a wild night of music and mischief. But a killer celebration soon gives way to a blood-soaked feeding frenzy when an inbred family of hillbilly cannibals trick and treat themselves to a group of visiting college students who are just dying for a good time… Continue reading ‘‘Wrong Turn 5: Bloodlines’ on Blu-ray October 23rd’
September 1st, 2012 by Sean Ferguson
Disney’s beloved classic continues in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure – for the first time ever on Disney Blu-ray. Picking up where Lady and the Tramp left off, this direct to video sequel focuses on Lady and the Tramp’s mischievous pup Scamp who is always in the doghouse. Now, an itch for a collar-free life and freedom is sending him on the ultimate adventure! While it is nowhere as good as the original, for those people that really wanted to see the story continue past Lady and the Tramp, this movie does that with a couple of laughs, some new songs and some new bonus features. Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure is a new Disney movie for the whole family! Continue reading ‘Lady and the Tramp II – Scamp’s Adventure: Special Edition (Blu-ray Review)’
September 1st, 2012 by Aaron Neuwirth
Another summer at the movies has come to an end and I do enjoy providing some sort of wrap up to this busy time for the cinema. I decided to do things a bit different this year though. I have listed what I consider my top five films of the summer (alphabetically), along with the worst films of the summer, the biggest disappointments, the biggest surprises, and a few indies that deserve more attention. I should note that while I did manage to see a large amount of films this summer, posting at least 2 reviews of new releases a week, there were a few that I missed (avoided) as well. Also, I always encourage interaction in these posts. What were everyone else’s favorites of the summer (possible putting Avengers and Dark Knight Rises aside)? Or surprises and disappointments? It is always fun to dig into these questions. Continue reading ‘Summer 2012’s Hits, Misses, And The Films In Between’
September 1st, 2012 by Aaron Neuwirth
Seriously, how bland is The Possession for a horror movie title? The Possession is everything one would expect from a late August or early January horror film release. This of course means it was filmed a while ago, sat around until things seemed clear enough, and was then dumped into theaters. There is something to be said for the marketing effort made to promote this film, complete with creepy images of bugs and hands coming out of mouths, but the film does nothing out of the ordinary and simply functions as another bland exorcism movie. Continue reading ‘‘The Possession’ Has A Generic Title Fitting Of A Generic Movie’
September 1st, 2012 by Gregg Senko
I once spoke with an acquaintance who referred to vampires as cupcakes. It’s not because of their sweetened depictions in a great deal of pop culture productions. Rather, it’s because they are the current flavor, if you will, just as the hand-held dessert is the current pastry trend. Let’s face it, vampires will always be with us in all their lore and gore glory. But just as vampires were once only associated with Dracula as cupcakes were only chocolate or vanilla frosted, the two have grown exponentially in their variety and complexity in recent memory. Yet there comes a point when something needs to get a facelift in order to continue to work in an already overcrowded genre. So what does DC’s Looker have to offer?
Continue reading ‘‘Looker’ Turns Few Heads’
August 31st, 2012 by Jami Ferguson
Walt Disney Studios brings the magic of the Hundred Acre Wood to life with The Tigger Movie, bounced onto Blu-ray high definition and HD Digital for the first time on August 21, 2012. Featuring new digitally enhanced picture and sound and exclusive bonus features, The Tigger Movie Bounce-A-Riffic Special Edition Blu-ray Combo Pack invites families to relive the childhood fun of the one and only Tigger. In this charming musical tale of friendship and adventure, The Tigger Movie Bounce-A-Riffic Special Edition follows Tigger as he sets off on an epic journey to find other Tiggers in his family tree. Through a series of exciting adventures he discovers that families come in all shapes and sizes. This fun and playful animated tale delights a whole new generation of fans with its timeless characters and storytelling, rich animation and delightful songs by legendary Disney songwriting team of brothers, Richard and Robert Sherman. The film features the Hundred Acre Wood’s most lovable characters, Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Piglet and the rest of the gang. Continue reading ‘The Tigger Movie: Bounce-A-Riffic Special Edition (Blu-ray Review)’
August 31st, 2012 by Gregg Senko
The fourth installment in the Step Up franchise continued to deliver on what the series does best; showcase some incredible dancing that features a combination of hip hop, ballet and expressionist choreography with an emphasis on the hip hop part. The cast excels in their dance ability amidst a backdrop of romance, a little soul-searching and doing the right thing. This autumn, Step Up Revolution comes home to Blu-ray and DVD!
Continue reading ‘Step Up Revolution Dances its Way to Blu-ray’
August 31st, 2012 by Aaron Neuwirth
When it comes to the hit Starz television series Spartacus, Why So Blu is all over it. Many have come around to appreciating the stylish and blood-soaked action/drama series over the years, as they learned that there was much more to it, beyond the sex and violence, which includes the intriguing story and character arcs, but Why So Blu was among those who cherished the series from the beginning. Now we have the latest season’s release on Blu-ray. Spartacus: Vengeance picks up where the first season left off, but had some big shoes to film, due to the incredibly unfortunate passing of original series lead Andy Whitfield. Fortunately, this tragedy did not set the series back too far, as the show still managed to hold on to its familiar tone, which balances its dynamic and over-the-top action sequences and bloodshed with well-handled characterization and story structure. It only helps that the Blu-ray format is perfect to show off the fantastic video and audio presentation transferred onto the disc, along with a strong selection of extras. Spartacus is now back on Blu, so it is time for everyone to get their vengeance. Continue reading ‘Spartacus: Vengeance (Blu-ray Review)’
August 30th, 2012 by Jami Ferguson
Conjure up a cauldron of silliness with Hocus Pocus, now on Blu-ray for the first time, featuring new digital restoration with enhanced picture and sound. Academy Award nominee Bette Midler (Best Actress, 1991, For The Boys), Sarah Jessica Parker (“Sex In The City”) and Kathy Najimy (The Wedding Planner) star in a wild and wacky comedy for the entire family. When three 17th century Salem witches are accidentally summoned by modern-day pranksters, the 300-year-old trio sets out to cast a spell on the town and reclaim their youth, but first they must outwit three kids and a talking cat. Get ready for a night of surprises in this bewitching movie – now on Blu-ray! Continue reading ‘Hocus Pocus (Blu-ray Review)’
August 29th, 2012 by Sean Ferguson
From Disneynature, the studio that brought you Earth, Oceans, and African Cats, comes Chimpanzee – a remarkable story of individual triumph and family bonds. Journey deep into the African forest and meet Oscar, an adorable young chimp with an entertaining approach to life. The world is a playground for little Oscar and his fellow young chimps who love creating mayhem. His playful curiosity and zest for discovery showcase the intelligence and ingenuity of some of the most extraordinary personalities in the animal kingdom. Stunning hi-definition images bring you up close and personal as Oscar and his family navigate the complex territory of the forest. It’s an inspiring and life-changing adventure that overflows with courage and charm. And it will capture your heart. In addition to the remarkable story filmed in the depths of the African forest, the Chimpanzee Blu-ray Combo Pack is filled with spectacular bonus features, including in-depth behind-the-scenes footage showcasing the filmmakers’ amazing efforts to document the making of the film; a music video for the song “Rise,” written and performed by McClain Sisters; a feature on Disney’s conservation legacy; and much more. Continue reading ‘Chimpanzee (Blu-ray Review)’
August 29th, 2012 by Jami Ferguson
Peter Berg (
The Rundown, The Kingdom, “Friday Night Lights”) directs and produces
Battleship, the epic-scale action-adventure based on the Parker Brothers board-game. Taylor Kitsch (
John Carter) plays Lieutenant Alex Hopper, a naval weapons officer assigned to destroyer USS John Paul, and humanity’s last hope in the face of a global alien invasion. Alexander Skarsgård (“True Blood,”
Melancholia) is Hopper’s older brother, Stone, Commanding Officer of USS Sampson; global music superstar Rihanna makes her motion-picture debut as Petty Officer Second Class Cora Raikes, Hopper’s crew-mate and a weapons specialist on USS John Paul Jones; Brooklyn Decker (
Just Go With It) is Sam Shane, Hopper’s fiancée and a physical therapist specializing in the rehabilitation of military combat veterans; Tadanobu Asano (
Thor), is Captain Yugi Nagata, commanding officer of the Japanese destroyer Myoko and Hopper’s archrival; and Academy Award nominee Liam Neeson (
The Grey, Taken) plays Hopper and Stone’s superior (and Sam’s father), Admiral Shane, Commander of the Pacific Fleet.
Continue reading ‘Battleship (Blu-ray Review)’
August 29th, 2012 by Aaron Neuwirth
Lawless is an enjoyable, Prohibition-era drama with plenty of really strong violent bits. It has a very good ensemble cast to work with, a director who knows how to make things look good, and plenty of other ingredients to make a solid picture. I think the film’s biggest problem is that it has the feel of an indie, but still conforms to a lot of generic plot elements. While getting the film that relishes in having Malick-like qualities, characters with sparse dialogue, and not much restraint regarding the violence, it also settles for having characters making poor choices only for the sake of the story, romantic subplots that bog things down, and a lack of subtlety at times. These aspects take away from Lawless being a great film, but it still has enough to it, especially due to Tom Hardy and the general look of the film, which makes it an entertaining one. Continue reading ‘‘Lawless’ Has Bootleggers, Bloodshed, And The Beef’
August 29th, 2012 by Aaron Neuwirth
It’s a buddy comedy, a chick flick, and a story of phone sex operators; all rolled into one! Obviously there have to be plenty of people that found this movie funny. For a Good Time, Call… was picked up out of Sundance and quickly turned around for a release this year. I guess the idea is to cash in on women talking dirty, following the success that was had with 2011’s Bridesmaids, except that film had more up its sleeve than just crude dialogue. For a Good Time, Call… feels like an incredibly lazy sitcom that is stretched out to feature length and attempting to repeatedly cash in on just one joke. Hearing so many explicit things in the span of a few minutes or as a running gag is fine, but as the only thing a film has going for it, it just becomes tiring and bland. Continue reading ‘‘For A Good Time’, Don’t Call…’
August 29th, 2012 by Gerard Iribe
I told you we’d be back with some more Ingmar Bergman madness, didn’t I? Well, up next we’ve got Summer with Monika, Bergman’s film about the joys and innocence of romance. Wait, I did say this was a Bergman film, right? Okay, throw in some drama and despair, and you’ve got yourself a Bergman stew. If Summer with Monika sounds familiar that’s probably due to his recent film that was shot a couple of years prior to this one. That one was called Summer Interlude, and you can read our review HERE. How will Summer with Monika stack up to that previous film? Keep reading after the jump to find out. Here’s hoping that Criterion keeps the Ingmar Bergman train going. We need more Bergman on Blu-ray! Continue reading ‘Summer with Monika: Criterion Collection (Blu-ray Review)’
