http://www.wfdvdreport.com/news/wfdvdreport.rss This RSS feed was generated out of the newsdatabase of WF DVD Report website. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1415 As a kid, stop motion films were never my forte. I avoided Nightmare Before Christmas until I was in my teens and the holiday classics I never took much interest in. Just about the only stop motion film I watched when I was younger was James and the Giant Peach and I can remember only one isolated incident of that. I seem to recall enjoying the film, so when this Blu-ray was announced I was excited to watch it again as it was probably well over a decade since I’d last seen it. Sadly I think I know why, after watching this film on Blu-ray, I wasn’t a fan of stop motion animation as a kid…and I think I can lay that blame solely on this film. SynopsisAfter the daring rescue of a spider, a young boy named James gains possession of some magic crocodile tongues. When James spills them in the garden, out sprouts an enormous peach! Climbing inside, he meets an astonishing cast of characters and embarks on a magical odyssey full of thrills and adventure. Voiced by an all-star cast, including legendary actors Richard Dreyfuss, Susan Sarandon, Simon Callow and Jane Leeves, and featuring the celebrated music of Randy Newman, this classic story is delicious entertainment for the whole family! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1414 Despite wrapping up the previous seasons with an enjoyable climax, Red vs. Blue returns in the sophisticated renderings of the graphic power of Halo 3’s developments with “Red vs. Blue: Reconstruction.” Applying a far more sense of drama and escalated scale than the pervious run, the new events tie into the continuity left by the previous five seasons and do so in a clever way. Reconstruction adheres a sense of mystery right off the bat that leaves you wanting more with each episode as you begin the series. The folks at Rooster Teeth are commendable in their growth as they better their filmmaking knowledge and it’s amazing what they accomplish with the use of a video game. Granted, it is well known there are post-production additions as well as a few other methods they employ, but for the most part they are using just a video game engine.SynopsisA new enemy. A new hero. The same bunch of rejects. When a secret government project goes wrong, the Reds and Blues must reconstruct their units to form an unlikely new alliance. It doesn’t take long to find out they’ve taken on more than they ever bargained for, but there’s no turning back. And no going home. Blood Gulch was only the beginning… http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1413 The advertising made available for Kick-Ass was quite unique. If you were a fan following it online through various R-rated clips or red band tidbits, you knew what type of film it was. Those unwitting bystanders who merely went by the trailers shown on TV were ultimately treated to a much darker and action packed film than advertised. This isn’t a huge surprise considering how hard to advertise something like Kick-Ass is to advertise. I never got a chance to see this film in theaters simply because I could find no one to go with me to see it—not so much because of the subject but simply because the advertisements made it look like something you didn’t go to the theater to see (in that it was more comedic than action packed). While the film certainly wasn’t a smashing success by any means, it did end up bringing in over three times its budget back when worldwide ticket sales were taken into account—not bad for a film whose main critical focus was that of a foul mouthed little girl. SynopsisDave Lizewski (Aaron Johnson) is an ordinary teenager who goes unnoticed in high school until he takes a chance to “do something” and dons a mask and becomes “Kick-Ass” to fight real-life crime. Bruised and beaten and without any real super powers, he is saved by a father-daughter duo (Nicholas Cage as “Big Daddy”, Chloë Grace Moretz as “Hit-Girl”) who know all the right moves and have a vendetta against a vicious crime-lord, D’Amico (Mark Strong). After a fiery internet storm of publicity for Kick-Ass, D’Amico wants to meet the masked man, and his son (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) dons a costume of his own and becomes “Red Mist” to befriend him and get in his father’s good graces. The story comes to a head when D’Amico succeeds in luring the crime-fighters to his home and ass-kicking destruction ensues. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1412 Written, directed and co-produced by the late Marion Cajori, a filmmaker well-known for capturing the creative process in documentaries about artists, the film became a critic’s darling playing at Toronto, Sundance and Melbourne Film Festivals. The documentary went on to win several top awards including the Whitney Pratt Grand Prize Montreal Int’l Festival for Films on Art and the Gold Plaque Award Chicago Int’l Film Festival. The DVD retails at $29.95 and comes with a lavish 40-page booklet produced by the Joan Mitchell Foundation that features photos, colorful artwork, a poignant letter from the heart by Marion Cajori to Joan Mitchell herself plus more.SynopsisAvailable on DVD for the first-time since the film’s theatrical release approximately 18 years ago, JOAN MITCHELL: PORTRAIT OF AN ABSTRACT PAINTER is a powerful and intimate portrait that captures the late Mitchell's independent spirit and testifies eloquently to Mitchell's art. One of the great abstract painters of the 20th century, Mitchell was an active participant of New York's dynamic Abstract Expressionist scene and hung out with fellow painters Franz Kline, Willem de Kooning and Philip Guston, as well as poets Frank O'Hara, James Schuyler and John Ashbery. In the mid-fifties, she moved to Paris, where she was part of a circle of friends that included Pierre Matisse, Samuel Beckett and Alberto Giacometti. This elegantly edited documentary weaves together interviews with the acerbic Mitchell and other leading painters and critics, while letting her stunning pictures dominate the film. Stephen Holden of the New York Times says, "The canvases have grand chaotic romanticism. While celebrating the physical universe with an ecstatic love of color, they don't shy away from expressing a harsh, feral apprehension of nature and its violence." http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1411 The eighties were a violent time for moviegoers. Not only did Terminator find its way to the screen and attempt to destroy humanity, but we saw Rocky get a fair amount of beatings as well. As if that wasn’t enough, First Blood smashes on screens in 1982 and has two sequels within six years. Without a doubt the eighties produced some of the most beloved action films (as well as some of the most despised) and it was a good time to be a ripped bodybuilder, especially if your last name was Schwarzenegger or Stallone. SynopsisThere is only one name that has been synonymous with action and adventure for over three decades – John Rambo. Now for the first time on Blu-ray Disc, Rambo fans can experience the entire journey of Academy Award® nominee Sylvester Stallone’s iconic character in Rambo: The Complete Collection. This 4-disc set includes all four films – First Blood, Rambo: First Blood Part II, Rambo III and the latest installment, Rambo. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1410 When all was said and done, my feelings toward the original Clash of the Titans were mixed. On one hand it’s an undeniably terrible movie, not only because of the dated visual effects but also just because of how transparent and ridiculous the acting was. At the same time it was all just good fun and I wouldn’t necessarily turn down watching it again—which I can’t say the same for this remake. While it certainly pulls elements from the original as well as mixing in some of its own elements (some in line with the mythology and some out of it), this Clash of the Titans remake just isn’t something that will leave you thrilled as neither a fan of the original or as a newcomer. Thankfully for Warner Bros. the film worked past the poor critical reviews of the film as it went on to gross nearly half a billion dollars worldwide. SynopsisIn Clash of the Titans, the ultimate struggle for power pits men against kings and kings against gods. But the war between the gods themselves could destroy the world. Born of a god but raised as a man, Perseus (Sam Worthington) is helpless to save his family from Hades (Ralph Fiennes), vengeful god of the underworld. With nothing to lose, Perseus volunteers to lead a dangerous mission to defeat Hades before he can seize power from Zeus (Liam Neeson) and unleash hell on earth. Battling unholy demons and fearsome beasts, Perseus and his warriors will only survive if Perseus accepts his power as a god, defies fate and creates his own destiny. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1409 Repo Men is an uneven affair, resulting in a bit of a frustrating affair. The premise is admittedly strong and pretty focused, but it seems as though the director just tends to wander for periods of time, resulting in a movie that has some great moments, but is also hampered with plenty of dead weight. The film fizzled when it hit theatres earlier this year, but is there a chance it can find a second life on home video? Does it play better on the big screen? Well, let’s skip past the synopsis and find out.Synopsis:In the futuristic action-thriller Repo Men, humans have extended and improved our lives through highly sophisticated and expensive mechanical organs created by a company called The Union. The dark side of these medical breakthroughs is that if you don't pay your bill, The Union sends its highly skilled repo men to take back its property... with no concern for your comfort or survival. Jude Law plays Remy, one of the best organ repo men in the business. But when he suffers a cardiac failure on the job, he awakens to find himself fitted with the company's top-of-the-line heart-replacement... as well as a hefty debt. When he can't make the payments, The Union sends its toughest enforcer, Remy's former partner Jake (Academy Award-winner Forest Whitaker), to track him down. The film is based on the novel "The Repossession Mambo" by Eric Garcia. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1408 Warner took kind of a gamble on The Losers. While it was another one of their own properties from their archive of comic books, it was untested and casting of relatively low-grade actors (no offense guys) in the leads appropriately showed how much clout they put behind it. The actors pulled their weight appropriately and worked with what they were given but at the end of the day The Losers was a film that was a bit too appropriately named. It is, in essence, something like The A-Team…only this somehow felt even shallower than a TV show pilot. At the very least the studio made their money back, if only just, in theaters so home video sales should all just be icing. SynopsisAn explosive action tale of betrayal and revenge, The Losers centers around an elite Special Forces unit sent to the Bolivian jungle on a search-and-destroy mission. But the team – Clay, Jensen, Roque, Pooch and Cougar – soon find that they have become the target of a deadly double cross instigated by a powerful enemy known only as Max. Making good use of the fact they’re now presumed dead, the group goes deep undercover in a dangerous plot to clear their names and even the score with Max. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1407 When trailers for Cop Out debuted, I didn’t even muster a smile. I love Bruce Willis, but Tracey Morgan I can only just tolerate at times so the idea of watching him in a film didn’t sit well with me. But then as the credits flew by for the film, my eye caught a name I recognized. I frame stepped back and there it was—Kevin Smith. Was it the same Smith who brought us Dogma? I figured I would’ve heard more about this film if it was but…surprise, surprise, this actually was Smith’s new film. As time wore on more trailers came out and I eventually warmed up to it, mostly because Morgan began to grow on me on 30 Rock during this time but also because it was clear that the trailers were holding back plenty of material to go with the R-rating that this film eventually ended up with. SynopsisOfficers Jimmy Monroe and Paul Hodges have their weapons drawn on a gun-wielding killer. They agree to shoot on three. But, wait, does that mean 1…2…shoot or 1…2…3…then shoot? Punches hit hard and laughs hit harder (or is it the other way ’round?) when action star Bruce Willis and ace comic Tracy Morgan pair as bickering-but-got-your-back Brooklyn buddy cops. Kevin Smith (Clerks, Chasing Amy) directs the gritty, goofball goings-on as the guys hunt for a stolen 1952 mint-condition baseball card (Jimmy needs it to fund his daughter’s wedding), a hunt plunging them into a gunslinging war with a deadly drug ring. Batter up, fans. The boys are ready to take you out to the ol’ brawl game! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1406 After watching the three original Rambo films I didn’t hold out much hope for the fourth, but knowing that I’d started the day with my first viewing of the Rambo trilogy I knew I’d have to cap it with the latest installment. At this point I was ready for the series to switch gears again but instead of a full tilt switch in either the drama or action direction, Rambo found a middle ground where it dialed up both sides of the scale to enormous proportions. Rambo is the single most violent film I’ve seen all year, so be prepared for copious amounts of blood spray and limb dismemberment. SynopsisHailed as “the best Rambo yet” (Bloody-Disgusting.com), the fourth film of the Rambo series stars Stallone, Julie Benz (Showtime’s “Dexter”), Matthew Marsden (Resident Evil: Extinction) and Paul Schulze (Showtime’s “Nurse Jackie”). Vietnam veteran John Rambo (Stallone) has survived a lifetime of near-death ordeals and has since withdrawn into a simple and secluded existence in Thailand. But when the hero leaves his home after being recruited to protect the missionaries on a humanitarian aid effort, Rambo is faced with the impossible task of rescue efforts during a civil war in Burma. This brand new extended cut features nine extra minutes of the film, plus nearly 90 minutes of newly created bonus materials including "RAMBO: To Hell and Back" - Sylvester Stallone's video production diary. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1405 It’s pretty hilarious to see old 80s movies drudged up and given a bit of spit and polish whenever its star is given a bit of rejuvenation in the public eye. Such is the case for two titles from Lionsgate—both Lock Up, starring Sylvester Stallone, and Johnny Handsome, starring Mickey Rourke, tout the films as if they’ll be something brilliant. They even feature a sticker that advertises Stallone’s next big action film, The Expendables, on the cover. Also for some reason it seems Lionsgate has inherited the rights to every crappy 80s action movie ever made because these films they drudge up are some truly terrible wastes of time. SynopsisFrom the director of 48 Hours, this hard-edged drama follows John Sedley (Oscar nominee Mickey Rourke; Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, The Wrestler, 2008) as a petty gangster whose facial deformities earned him the nickname “Johnny Handsome.” When Johnny and a friend are double-crossed during a robbery by their two partners, his friend is killed and Johnny is sent to prison. However, inside jail, a sympathetic surgeon makes a deal to give Johnny a new face and a new shot at life. Once on the outside, Johnny discovers that staying straight isn’t easy as his new look opens the door for revenge. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1404 As much as it pains me to say it, there have been far stupider premises than a “rock, paper, scissors” tournament. Granted, the stupider films actually are stupid, whereas The Flying Scissors is a film fully aware of its stupidity, of which it embraces to the fullest extent. It’s a mockumentary, shot in a style that is reminiscent of The Office, and while it’s far from something you should expect to take seriously it does poke fun at the current state of other sports that draw an obsession from people—everything from modern sports to how popular poker has become. SynopsisExperience the knock-down, drag-out world of competitive “Rock, Paper, Scissors” in this hilarious mockumentary that chronicles the lives and dreams of top contenders as they gear up for the national championships. Among the many hopefuls are a stay-at-home dad (Mason Pettit), a mathematical wizard who moonlights as a bathroom attendant (Keong Sim), an idealistic beauty queen (Sarah Wheeler), a fading veteran looking for one last shot at glory (Todd Susman) and a trash talking street hustler (Mike Britt). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1403 With a pair of NBC’s finest talent slapped on the movie poster, it was no wonder that Date Night became quite the success for Fox. The modestly budgeted film ($55 million) was given an incredible return on investment as it went on to make nearly triple that with worldwide box office receipts taken into account. While the film didn’t receive the most positive of reviews, it was still mostly positive and combined with solid word of mouth the film spent quite a few comfortable months bringing in audiences for what may have been one of the simplest and easy to enjoy films of the past few years. SynopsisOne ordinary couple. One crazy night. The uproarious story of mistaken identity starring two of the world’s biggest comedic talents, Date Night arrives on Blu-ray and DVD August 10 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Filled with non-stop laughs and outrageous situations, Date Night follows Steve Carell (“The Office”) and Tina Fey (“30 Rock”) as a sensible, loving couple with two kids and a house in suburban New Jersey. Their typical date nights include a run-of-the-mill evening with little to no romance, but one night they decide to reignite the spark by going to Manhattan’s hottest new restaurant… without a reservation. What happens next is a wild ride that goes hilariously awry, as they embark on a dangerous series of crazy adventures to save their lives, and their marriage. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1402 And so continues USA Networks seemingly unstoppable barrage of shows that not only feel fresh and new but also have a certain style and swagger about them that you can’t help but want to continue watching them. While I feel White Collar is probably the networks weakest attempt to date, it still manages to warrant a viewing simply for the fun factor. The stories and characters are fairly simple and the season started out rather rough, but it eventually proceeds into something a bit more worth watching and something to recommend to those who already enjoy the networks other offerings.SynopsisPlaying cat and mouse for years, an unlikely partnership is formed between a con artist and an FBI agent in USA’s hit original series, “White Collar." Matt Bomer plays Neal Caffrey, a charming criminal mastermind, who is finally caught by his nemesis, FBI Agent Peter Burke played by Tim DeKay. When Neal escapes from a maximum-security prison to find his long-lost love, Peter nabs him once again. Rather than returning to jail, Neal suggests an alternate plan: he’ll provide his criminal expertise to assist the Federal Agents in catching other elusive criminals. Initially wary, Peter quickly finds that Neal provides insight and intuition that can’t be found on the right side of the law. “White Collar” also stars Tiffani Thiessen (“Saved By The Bell”) and Willie Garson (Sex and the City) and Natalie Morales. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1401 There are the occasional films at the Oscar’s that you’ve never heard of, but they often belong to the foreign film category. Rarely (at least for me) is there a film that crops up in the best actor/actress category I’d never heard of, but in the case of the 2010 Oscar’s that happened twice—and with the same movie. Both stars Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren were nominated for Best Actor/Actress for The Last Station, a simultaneously low-budget film and small-release (fewer than four hundred theaters) film that earned fairly positive reviews from critics though usually only for the aforementioned actors performances. Releasing under the “Sony Pictures Classics” banner, The Last Station snuck its way past most of the general audience both in theaters as well as on DVD and Blu-ray when it released on June 22nd. SynopsisAcademy Award® winner Helen Mirren (Best Actress, The Queen, 2006) and Christopher Plummer star in this compelling look at the final days of literary icon Leo Tolstoy. Having renounced his title and property, Tolstoy makes plans to donate his royalties to the Russian people, supported by his trusted disciple Chertkov (Paul Giamatti). Tolstoy’s outraged wife wages a one-woman war to challenge her husband’s outrageous act of idealism. Co-starring Golden Globe® nominee James McAvoy (Atonement) as the novelist’s worshipful assistant whose romance with a free-spirited young woman puts Tolstoy’s notion of ideal love to the ultimate test. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1400 Italian-born Laura Huxley, a teenage violin virtuoso, played for European royalty and made her American debut at Carnegie Hall before leaving the concert stage to become a renowned psychotherapist and author. In 1956 Laura married Aldous Huxley, author of BRAVE NEW WORLD, literary giant and prophet of the 20th century. Narrated by Peter Coyote and featuring interviews with such luminaries as John Densmore, Michael Murphy, Nick Nolte and Ram Dass, HUXLEY ON HUXLEY offers a compelling glimpse of Laura Huxley’s life with Aldous Huxley, as well as the revolutionary and provocative work that had a major influence on American and contemporary cultural history and such key figures as The Beatles, The Doors and Timothy Leary.SynopsisIn the conservative 1950s, the Huxley home in the Hollywood Hills was the center of the artistic and intellectual avant-garde of Los Angeles. Guests to their famous Saturday luncheons included George Cukor, Igor Stravinsky, Orson Welles and Christopher Isherwood. The Huxleys’ passionate search to find higher levels of consciousness included their controversial experimentation with psychedelic drugs. Narrated by Peter Coyote and featuring interviews with such luminaries as John Densmore, Michael Murphy, Nick Nolte and Ram Dass, HUXLEY ON HUXLEY offers a compelling glimpse of Laura’s life with Aldous, as well as the revolutionary and provocative work that had a major influence on American and contemporary cultural history. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1399 Ever since the success of Harry Potter being adapted from book to movie form, it has become a trend to delve into further book series that deal with an unlikely kid, ignorant to his origin’s reality, becoming the champion of a mystical world. The most common stories that follow this setup are generally set within the fantasy realm of medieval magic and sorcery. Percy Jackson, however, is a series that delves even further back in history to the days of the complicated mythology of the Greek Gods. Although I wasn’t expecting much from the movie, mostly since I had never heard of the book series until this film’s release, I was still somewhat eager to see this based on the use of Greek mythology. My eagerness was further sparked by learning that Chris Columbus was the director, whose directorial career includes childhood favorites such as “Home Alone” 1 & 2, “Mrs. Doubtfire,” along with the first two Harry Potter films.SynopsisBased on the popular book series by Rick Riordan, the film follows trouble-prone Percy Jackson who finds himself having problems in high school… but that’s the least of his challenge. It’s the 21st century, but the gods of Mount Olympus have walked out of the pages of his Greek mythology texts and into his life, and they’re not happy – Zeus’ lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect. Learning he is the son of Poseidon, the young teen finds himself caught between angry and battling gods, and embarks on a cross-country adventure to catch the true lightning thief and unravel a mystery more powerful than the gods themselves. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1398 It was big, menacing, controversial…and an absolute masterpiece. On June 29, Eagle Rock Entertainment’s acclaimed and award-winning Classic Albums series will uncover the story of its making. Black Sabbath: Classic Albums – Paranoid is released, just in time for the 40th anniversary of the album. The Classic Albums series unwinds the threads of mystery behind artistic genius, recounting the experiences behind the board and through every chord. Unearthing the creative process of definitive albums from Elvis Presley, The Doors, Frank Zappa, Nirvana, Meat Loaf, Phil Collins, Bob Marley and many others, it will now dive into Black Sabbath’s 1970 tour de force.SynopsisThroughout the 97 minutes of this documentary, original members Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drummer), along with their original engineer, deliver the story behind Paranoid. The DVD chronicles the creation of the locomotive force and unrelenting energy behind these tracks, which ignited an electrified and unforeseen brand of blues-rock. The comprehensive collection of interviews, demonstrations, archive videos, and feature cuts from timeless epics such as “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” and the title track, is complemented with 40 minutes of bonus features. For the first time a classic album title is also released on Blu-Ray. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1397 Upon first glance it would seem that A Single Man was another one of those Oscar films that no one saw or that it was a commercial failure. On the contrary, the film was made for a paltry $7 million dollars and made back over three times that when worldwide receipts are taken into account. Granted, that’s not a whole lot for a film to make nowadays, but considering how little exposure this film got it’s quite a remarkable feat. Of course the Oscar buzz did help it (even if Firth’s nomination was drowned out by Jeff Bridges ultimate and inevitable win) and the BAFTA win certainly helped it overseas, but the sad fact is many will likely pass this film on by simple because they either never heard of it or that the cover makes Firth look too much like that guy from Heroes which nearly turned me off as I don’t need any more reminders of that show.SynopsisA SINGLE MAN is based on the novel of the same name by Christopher Isherwood. Set in Los Angeles in 1962, at the height of the Cuban missile crisis, it is the story of a British college professor (Colin Firth) who is struggling to find meaning to his life after the death of his long time partner. The story is a romantic tale of love interrupted, the isolation that is an inherent part of the human condition, and, ultimately, the importance of the seemingly smaller moments in life. 2009 Critics’ Choice Awards nominations include Colin Firth (Best Actor), Julianne Moore (Best Actress), Best Screenplay and Best Art Direction. 2010 Golden Globe nominations include Colin Firth (Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama), Julianne Moore (Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture) and Best Original Score - Motion Picture. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1396 There’s no mistaking what this show is about right from the get-go. The series opens with the Mayor of Super Hero City attempting to cut the ribbon on a new impenetrable door designed to keep the baddies of VillainVille safely locked away. Naturally, things don't quite work as it should and, within seconds, the heroes of Super Hero City find themselves under attack by the worst of the worst. Led by Iron Man, he and the Super Hero Squad mount a defense to keep the citizens of Super Hero City safe. Definitely aimed at a very young audience, and written with tongue planted firmly in cheek, The Super Hero Squad Show has a charm about it that die-hard Marvel fans should really dig, regardless of age.Synopsis:When the greatest (and coolest) heroes on the planet unite to face the world’s greatest villains, you get the biggest, most family-friendly Super Hero team-up in TV history. It’s no small job protecting Super Hero City from the wild, weird (& even wacky) villainy of VillainVille’s infamous baddies…but the Super Hero Squad is always up for the job. These brave heroes totally deliver the action – but with plenty of humor on the side. Start the adventure with The Super Hero Squad Show: Quest for the Infinity Sword! - Volume One! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1395 It seems like it’s been awhile since our last DC Universe outing. Though I suppose that’s because it kind of has been—the gap between the previous film, Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths, and this one was about five months. After the rapid release that we got with Superman/Batman: Public Enemies I got kind of spoiled with watching three of these films in 2009 and we’re only just getting our second of 2010 with Under the Red Hood (though we’ll get another Superman/Batman film in September, rounding out our third of the year for 2010). I realize this is all par for the course, but when you run a website that, for the most part, lives and breathes these films it gets to be a bit much and you expect these things to come out faster than they do. In any case, here we are with Under the Red Hood which is yet another comic book adaptation tweaked for home video. Those familiar with the original story know that it was going to be an interesting adaptation for home video, simply because Superboy punching a hole in whatever wasn’t going to fly for a seventy-five minute film. SynopsisBatman faces his ultimate challenge as the mysterious Red Hood takes Gotham City by firestorm. One part vigilante, one part criminal kingpin, Red Hood begins cleaning up Gotham with the efficiency of Batman, but without following the same ethical code. Killing is an option. And when the Joker falls in the balance between the two, hard truths are revealed and old wounds are reopened. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1394 I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said From Russia with Love while talking about this movie. I’m given strange looks immediately by those around me as they try desperately to remember John Travolta in a James Bond movie. It’s at this point I correct myself and then all is made right temporarily until they admit to never hearing of From Paris with Love. Not a huge surprise considering was out of theaters barely a month after its initial release. Add to the fact the film made a paltry $24 million domestically (and less than its total budget with worldwide ticket sales taken into account) and it’s no surprise that the film went relatively unknown. Of course looking at critical reviews would have definitely turned quite a few off as well, since the 37% it currently holds on Rotten Tomatoes is less than appealing.SynopsisTrigger-happy special agent Charlie Wax (Travolta) leads rookie James Reese (Rhys Meyers) on a high-speed shooting frenzy through the Parisian underworld during a high-stakes CIA mission to foil a terrorist attack planned on the city. Before Reese realizes he’s bitten off more than he can chew, the duo discovers that he’s a target of the same crime ring planning the attack. With only 48 hours to save the city, there is no turning back and only one deadly way out. Pack your bags and get ready for a serious adrenaline-rush of adventure! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1393 If you’ve never heard of Pretty Bird you’re not alone—despite the lead actors all being well-known, the 2008 film kind of remained stuck in limbo, not going anywhere other than the Sundance festival. It’s finally seeing a DVD release courtesy of Paramount, although you’ll get nothing on the release other than the film itself so if you’re like the…handful of people who saw it and wondered what the hell this film was about or why it ended the way it did, then tough luck. In fact, it’s just a ton of tough luck because researching this film online brings up very little as well, so chances are you’re going to be renting this film based solely on the talent involved…which is a bad choice. SynopsisBilly Crudup, Paul Giamatti, Kristen Wiig and David Hornsby star in this “darkly amusing look at the American Dream – and the personal shortcomings we’ll gladly endure (or ignore) in the pursuit of said dream” (Scott Weinberg, CINEMATICAL). When three eccentric would-be inventors – a smooth-talking entrepreneur (Crudup), a tender-hearted mattress tore owner (Hornsyby), and a pessimistic rocket scientist (Giamatti) – get together to launch a rocket belt company, they put everything on the line in a crazy quest to reach the greatest heights of success. Filled with high-flying hilarity and surprises, Pretty Bird sours into new realms of off-beat comedy. Writen and directed by Paul Schneider (Lars and the Real Girl), this Sundance Dramatic Grand Jury Prize nominee is based on an outlandish true story. Now, that’s rocket science! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1392 The last time a film’s success hinged upon audiences accepting its ludicrous title we ended up with Snakes on a Plane. Rather than venture into the horror route again, however, we focus instead on the comedy genre. Although the cast is varied and plentiful, chances are there are only two faces in Hot Tub Time Machine that you will actually be able to name. This isn’t a knock against the cast, of course, as everyone is perfectly cast here. Instead it’s just kind of a similar situation to what we got with Snakes on a Plane with Samuel L. Jackson as the lead surrounded by “Hey I know that person from…” type declarations. Fortunately while the premise and eventual execution of Hot Tub Time Machine is really quite moronic, it’s done in such a fantastically stupid way that you can’t help but enjoy the ride…as ridiculous as it all may be. SynopsisThree friends with less-than-fulfilling lives get the chance to go back and do it all again in the uproarious comedy Hot Tub Time Machine, heating up as an UNRATED, two-disc Blu-ray with Digital Copy and DVD June 29 from MGM Home Entertainment. Delivering “non-stop political incorrectness” and “about a billion laughs” (Los Angeles Times), the film stars John Cusack (High Fidelity), Craig Robinson (“The Office”) and Rob Corddry (“The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”) as buddies looking to recapture a little of their youthful glory by returning to the ski resort where they used to party. After a crazy night of drinking in the hot tub, they realize that they’ve been transported back to the 80s and into the bodies of their younger selves. Now they have to decide whether they should change their futures while wading through a sea of spandex, blue eye shadow and heavy metal hair bands. Hot Tub Time Machine also features a hilarious supporting cast including comedy legend Chevy Chase (Caddyshack), Crispin Glover (Back To The Future) and Clark Duke (Kick-Ass). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1391 Rem Koolhaas is celebrated not only as the architect of outstanding creations including the Dutch Embassy in Berlin, the Seattle Library, the Casa da Musica concert hall in Porto, and the Guggenheim Heritage Museum in Las Vegas, but also as a writer, filmmaker and social commentator. Rem Koolhaas: A Kind of Architect is an engaging portrait of a visionary man, which takes us to the heart of his ideas. For Koolhaas what is essential is not to create individual masterpieces, but to provoke and excite through the wide range of his activities, as reflected in this visually inventive, thought-provoking portrait. Directors Markus Heidingsfelder and Min Tesch have made a visually inventive, thought-provoking portrait of the architect, prompting Rem Koolhaas to state, “It’s the only film about me that I have liked.”SynopsisRarely has an architect caused as much sensation outside of the architecture community as Rem Koolhaas. His outstanding creations—such as the Dutch Embassy in Berlin, the Seattle Library and the Casa da Musica concert hall in Porto—are working examples of the Dutchman’s visionary theories about architecture and urban society. But Koolhaas’ work is as much about ideas as it is about constructing buildings; he is equally celebrated as a writer and social commentator. For Koolhaas, what is essential is not to create individual masterpieces, but to provoke and excite through the wide range of his activities. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1390 The Predator series has a long history in the film and comic book medium (not to mention video game adaptations and the crossovers with the Alien franchise), but when all is said and done it all comes back to the original Schwarzenegger film. Although the special effects may be dated, the who’s-hunting-who feeling that the film gives off is timeless and is something that future installments of the franchise failed to capitalize on (although the upcoming Predators film looks like it may be something worth keeping your eye on). Now, for the second time on the format, Predator arrives with an all-new transfer (one that will no doubt polarize the Blu-ray community) as well as a few new featurettes piled in top of the already meaty smattering of extras we got from previous releases. SynopsisDutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger; The Terminator) wages an all-out war against an unseen enemy, a force more powerful and deadly than any on Earth-because the Predator is not of this Earth. As he leads an elite group of commandos on a rescue mission deep into the jungle, Dutch and his team quickly learn that their foe kills for pleasure and hunts for sport. However, this time….it picked the wrong man to hunt. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1389 Bass Ackwards reminds us that whatever we think the road is about, the trip is probably about something else. Alternating between scripted action, improvision and the unpredictably spontaneity of vérité encounters, the film is the semi-autobiographical story of Linas Phillips and his old friends, costars and co-conspirators Davie-Blue, Jim Fletcher, Paul Lazar and Sean Porter. The film crosses the line between reality and fiction, incorporating the people and characters that Phillips meets on an unscripted and adventurous ride across America.SynopsisWhen humble Linas (Linas Phillips), kicked off of his friend’s couch and spurned by his lover, finds a forgotten van on a llama farm outside Seattle, he begins lurching east with nothing to lose. Slowly, the road eases him out of his relentless longing and into the moment. As his encounters with enigmatic characters take on subtly transcendent qualities, his shame and discomfort at being alone gradually give way to self-acceptance and connection. The dented, off-kilter vehicle, which valiantly, amazingly endures the journey, becomes a colorful metaphor for the human condition – our tenacity and hopefulness always tinged with imperfection. The utterly original, lyrical and visually exciting adventure has such a light touch that it quietly sneaks up and tugs you into an overpowering appreciation of being human. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1388 Despite attempting to branch out from their proper sci-fi routes, Syfy - commonly pronounced as ‘Siffy’ among viewers - has managed to retain many elements that stay within the sci-fi genre. Mostly staying away from space-based shows, or at least ones that actually involve regular jaunts to other worlds, Syfy’s shows now stay within the gravitational confines of Earth. “Warehouse 13,” a show about a Government-sanctioned warehouse that holds supernatural secrets, is yet another show that is solely Earth-bound, and revolves around discovering the secrets of dangerously enchanted devices related to ancient lore, timeless superstition, and even mere fables. Creating something of a trilogy with its fellow Syfy programming, “Eureka” and “Sanctuary,” “Warehouse 13” practically combines the two into a potluck of mystery with science, magic, and a hint of steampunk.SynopsisAfter saving the life of the President, two top Secret Service agents find themselves abruptly transferred to Warehouse 13 — a massive, top-secret storage facility in the badlands of South Dakota that houses every strange artifact, mysterious relic, fantastical object and supernatural souvenir ever collected by the U.S. government. Now the pair — off-the-cuff Agent Pete Lattimer and by-the-book Agent Myka Bering — must chase down reports of supernatural and paranormal activity in search of new objects for their eccentric new boss, Artie Nielsen, to safeguard at the Warehouse. It’s a wildly entertaining adventure full of inventive gadgetry and thrilling action, and with all twelve Warehouse 13: Season One episodes cataloged and archived in this collectible three-disc set, now’s your chance to snag it, bag it and tag it! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1387 Eagle Rock Entertainment, the UK based independent, has licensed the North American DVD and Blu-Ray rights to When You’re Stange: A Film About The Doors from Rhino Entertainment. The documentary uncovers historic and previously unseen footage of the illustrious rock band and provides new insight into the revolutionary impact of its music and legacy. Directed by award-winning writer/director Tom DiCillo and narrated by Johnny Depp, the film is a riveting account of the band’s history. Produced by Wolf Films/Strange Pictures, in association with Rhino Entertainment, the 90-minute film is the first feature documentary about The Doors. Additional credits for the film include producers Peter Jankowski, Dick Wolf, John Beug and Jeff Jampol. When You’re Strange had its theatrical debut on April 9 and will be released through Eagle Vision on standard DVD and Blu-Ray on June 29th.SynopsisWhen You’re Strange is a breathtaking journey into the hypnotic world of The Doors. The film uncovers historic and previously unseen footage of the illustrious rock quartet and provides new insight into the revolutionary impact of its music and legacy. Written and directed by Tom DiCillo, narrated by Johnny Depp and produced by legendary producer, Dick Wolf, the film is a riveting account of the band’s history. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1386 With nary a magician/mystery driven film in sight, the world was given two in short succession in 2006. The most talked about, The Prestige was Christopher Nolan’s first film since Batman Begins which trumpeted such talent as Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman in the lead; the other film, The Illusionist was decidedly less profile, though it certainly wasn’t lacking any star power. As time has gone by both films have fallen out of the public conscience as neither were particularly amazing even although they both were quite entertaining nonetheless; I guess a period film revolving around supernatural magic just doesn’t have much of an audience outside of these two films. It’s also reflected in their box office receipts as both could only be considered a success for all involved, even if critics and audiences were left with upended minds by the time the credits rolled on both films. SynopsisThe acclaimed illusionist Eisenheim (Norton) has not only captured the imaginations of all of Vienna, but also the interest of the ambitious Crown Prince Leopold (Sewell). But when Leopold's new fianc (Biel) rekindles a childhood fascination with Eisenheim, the Prince's interest evolves into obsession... and suddenly the city's Chief Inspector (Giamatti) finds himself investigating a shocking crime. But even as the Inspector engages him in a dramatic challenge of wills, Eisenheim prepares for his most impressive illusion yet. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1385 Starting within the rough realms of Halo 2’s adjustments to the Halo universe, Red vs. Blue unexpectedly took us from what seemed a meager jaunt through internet meme in video form to a legend of itself as it evolved alongside the Halo franchise, and managed to become something truly unique. Throughout the various strings that make up our beloved worldwide web, there are countless professional, amateur and even less-than-amateur attempts at releasing creations unto the digital public. These are generally for quick (and notorious) fame, or for anonymous entertainment of the masses. I’m not certain which one the people at Rooster Teeth were after, but they managed to successfully make their place in internet history with their creation. Whatever their motivation, they have managed to dodge infamy and remain a positive mark in internet geekery.SynopsisIn the distant future, ten soldiers battle for control of the least desirable piece of real estate in the known universe—a box canyon in the middle of nowhere. Red vs. Blue chronicles the misadventures of two hapless armies as they wage a war that few understand and no one wants to fight. It all started with a simple question: “You ever wonder why we’re here?” But in a place called Blood Gulch, the answers aren’t always what you expect. What began as a six-episode video project created by a group of avid Halo® fans quickly took on a life of its own. Five seasons, 100 episodes and millions of downloads later, Red vs. Blue: The Blood Gulch Chronicles has become known as one of the funniest and most popular Internet video series of all time. This 6-disc DVD set includes all 100 episodes from the five seasons (remastered for Seasons 1-4), as well as hours of exclusive bonus material. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1384 Anyone has perused the top 200 list on IMDb has noticed the title “Il buono, il brutto, il cattivo.” sitting comfortably at #4 for some time now. Unless you speak the language, however, the title will remain a mystery to you until you click on it and discover that it is none other than The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, the most famous of the spaghetti westerns and perhaps Clint Eastwood’s most famous role (outside of Dirty Harry, at least) ever to grace the silver screen. With several equally as acclaimed sequels releasing after this one, it certainly isn’t the only classic western out there—but you’ll be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t heard the title or the films awe inspiring music by Ennio Morricone. Despite having released a collection of all Fox owned Leone entries in the 2007 The Sergio Leone Collection on DVD, Fox has opted to release only the Eastwood driven films in a The Man With No Name Trilogy, which includes the other two Leone/Eastwood films A Fistful Of Dollars and A Few Dollars More, on Blu-ray. SynopsisSergio Leone's trilogy of operatic spaghetti Westerns with Clint Eastwood made the former television star into an international sensation as the scraggly, silent Man with No Name, a wandering rogue with a scheming mind and a sense of humor drier than the dusty, wind-scoured desert. The first in the collection, A Fistful of Dollars, a unique take on Kurosawa's cynical samurai hit Yojimbo, reveals the transformation of the Western hero into a crafty mercenary. The follow-up, For a Few Dollars More, teams Eastwood up in an uneasy alliance with Lee Van Cleef (High Noon) in a tale of revenge. But the masterpiece of the set is The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, an epic scramble for buried gold set against the violence of the Civil War. In this film good is a relative term as three criminals make a series of tenuous partnerships broken in double-crosses and betrayals in Leone's epic vision of the American southwest as endless deserts and clapboard towns infested with gunmen. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1383 Matt Damon and Paul Greengrass returned to theaters in March with what should have been by most accounts another successful entry in their already exciting history together. After all how could the duo that popped out the action gems that were The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum put out a film that wasn’t every as bit engaging as they were? To most who saw the film, that was the case as Green Zone’s rapid-pace two hour run time left many underwhelmed and disinterested as it paired a rather run-of-the-mill grouping of characters into a story that, while entertaining in its own right, was quickly pegged as “anti-American” by film critics who took the films message and lead character going against the government as blasphemous. SynopsisAcademy Award® nominees Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass (The Bourne Supremacy, The Bourne Ultimatum) reteam in this action-packed thriller. Damon stars as Roy Miller, a rogue U.S. Army officer who must hunt through covert and faulty intelligence hidden on foreign soil before war escalates in an unstable region. Also starring Academy Award® nominees Greg Kinnear and Amy Ryan, Green Zone is “one hell of a thriller” (Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1382 The last time a film’s success hinged upon audiences accepting its ludicrous title we ended up with Snakes on a Plane. Rather than venture into the horror route again, however, we focus instead on the comedy genre. Although the cast is varied and plentiful, chances are there are only two faces in Hot Tub Time Machine that you will actually be able to name. This isn’t a knock against the cast, of course, as everyone is perfectly cast here. Instead it’s just kind of a similar situation to what we got with Snakes on a Plane with Samuel L. Jackson as the lead surrounded by “Hey I know that person from…” type declarations. Fortunately while the premise and eventual execution of Hot Tub Time Machine is really quite moronic, it’s done in such a fantastically stupid way that you can’t help but enjoy the ride…as ridiculous as it all may be. SynopsisThree friends with less-than-fulfilling lives get the chance to go back and do it all again in the uproarious comedy Hot Tub Time Machine, heating up as an UNRATED, two-disc Blu-ray with Digital Copy and DVD June 29 from MGM Home Entertainment. Delivering “non-stop political incorrectness” and “about a billion laughs” (Los Angeles Times), the film stars John Cusack (High Fidelity), Craig Robinson (“The Office”) and Rob Corddry (“The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”) as buddies looking to recapture a little of their youthful glory by returning to the ski resort where they used to party. After a crazy night of drinking in the hot tub, they realize that they’ve been transported back to the 80s and into the bodies of their younger selves. Now they have to decide whether they should change their futures while wading through a sea of spandex, blue eye shadow and heavy metal hair bands. Hot Tub Time Machine also features a hilarious supporting cast including comedy legend Chevy Chase (Caddyshack), Crispin Glover (Back To The Future) and Clark Duke (Kick-Ass). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1381 Classic concerts from some of rock’s greatest acts are getting the high-def treatment this summer! Eagle Rock Entertainment will release The Shadows: The Final Tour on June 15, followed by Emerson, Lake & Palmer: Live at Montreux 1997 and The Moody Blues: Threshold of a Dream – Live at the Isle of Wight Festival. While Eagle Rock continuing to release old concerts on the Blu-ray format is nothing new for the company, the choices are definitely quite varied as the concerts span quite a few decades this time around. Fans of classic rock will no doubt find this to be a highly enjoyable wave. SynopsisThe Moody Blues had a dominating hold in 1970, both creatively and commercially. It was in this year, just after the release of their album A Question of Balance, that they joined acts like The Who, The Doors, and Jimi Hendrix for the now historic Isle of Wight Festival. Available for the first time on Blu-ray, Threshold of a Dream: Live at the Isle of Wight Festival was originally released on standard format in May 2009. Capturing a special moment in time, this 80-minute Murray Lerner-directed film showcases treasured cuts like “To Our Children’s Children’s Children,” “Questions,” and “Nights In White Satin.” http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1380 Coming from the days in which movie sequels weren’t simply a gimmick to garner more money for a franchise, but rather a way to continue with a coherent and quality story, “Karate Kid, Part II” surprisingly accomplishes what you don’t expect. The first movie felt very confined within itself and could have simply stood alone for all time, however, a sequel was made continuing mere hours after the first movie’s events ends. Before the movie begins, its mere existence leaves you questioning if it was truly necessary, especially as it takes its time to give you a reason for its being. Despite this, it’s one of the best sequels I’ve seen.SynopsisThe price of honor. The power of friendship. THE KARATE KID, Part II. Ralph Macchio and Noriyuki "Pat" Morita re-create the roles that brought them international acclaim in The Karate Kid. Karate student, Daniel Larusso (Macchio), accompanies his wise and whimsical teacher, Mr. Miyagi (Morita), to his ancestral home in Okinawa. For the boy, it's a journey to an exotic new world offering new cluesto his mentor's secret past. For Miyagi, it's an opportunity to see his father one last time and torekindle a romance with his childhood sweetheart (Nobu McCarthy). But Miyagi's return also re-ignites a bitter feud with long-time enemy, Sato (Danny Kamekona) - a feud that involves young Daniel in a brilliant collision of cultures and combat. Now, far away from the tournaments, the cheering crowds and the safety of home, Daniel will face his greatest challenge ever when teacher becomes student and the price of honor is life itself. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1379 With a career spanning six decades, charismatic pop icon Cliff Richard is the only UK artist to have charted #1 in five consecutive decades. In 1959, he began recording with The Shadows, an alliance that strengthened both acts’ legacies. Fifty years later, the most successful partnership in UK history has reunited for a final international tour. Sir Cliff Richard, in addition to over 20 years worth of chart success, was the first pop star ever bestowed knighthood by the Queen of England, receiving the honor for his tireless charity work in 1995. He has enjoyed 123 hit singles, while The Shadows endured with continuous chart success of their own.SynopsisFollowing the DVD release of Cliff And The Shadows: The Final Reunion (January 19, 2010), The Final Tour (originally released on standard DVD on November 2004) captures The Shadows performing at Cardiff International Arena on June 5, 2004 in the midst of a sold-out UK arena tour. Chipping into a catalogue six decades deep, guitarist Hank Marvin (whose performance style has influenced the likes of Brian May, Pete Townshend, and Eric Clapton), and bassist Bruce Welch, and drummer Brian Bennett performed over three hours of music. Additionally, a 45-minute bonus interview is included. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1378 Nearing its 25th anniversary and a haphazard remake, “The Karate Kid” is still well seated as a cinematic icon of the 80’s, as well as simply being a classic in general. Even if you’re of the few that have managed to exist through the late 80’s and early 90’s that haven’t seen it, you have no doubt been exposed to a plethora of parody and references based on this film - even if you weren’t aware of it. At the very least, you’ve most likely heard of the legendary character of Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita, launched by this very movie. Either way, none of it really prepares you as to how the movie turns out once you sit down and give it a proper watching. As long as you don’t have some irrational, or justified, fear of traversing the 80’s culture for an hour and a half, then the movie has held up pretty well after 24 years.SynopsisA fatherless teenager faces his moment of truth in THE KARATE KID. Daniel (Ralph Macchio) arrives in Los Angeles from the east coast and faces the difficult task of making new friends. However, he becomes the object of bullying by the Cobras, a menacing gang of karate students, when he strikes up arelationship with Ali (Elisabeth Shue), the Cobra leader's ex-girlfriend. Eager to fight back and impress his new girlfriend but afraid to confront the dangerous gang, Daniel asks his handyman Miyagi(Noriyuki 'Pat' Morita), whom he learns is a master of the martial arts, to teach him karate. Miyagi teaches Daniel that karate is a mastery over the self, mind, and body and that fighting is always the last answer to a problem. Under Miyagi's guidance, Daniel develops not only physical skills but also the faith and self-confidence to compete despite tremendous odds as he encounters the fight of his life in the exciting finale to this entertaining film. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1377 Classic concerts from some of rock’s greatest acts are getting the high-def treatment this summer! Eagle Rock Entertainment will release The Shadows: The Final Tour on June 15, followed by Emerson, Lake & Palmer: Live at Montreux 1997 and The Moody Blues: Threshold of a Dream – Live at the Isle of Wight Festival. While Eagle Rock continuing to release old concerts on the Blu-ray format is nothing new for the company, the choices are definitely quite varied as the concerts span quite a few decades this time around. Fans of classic rock will no doubt find this to be a highly enjoyable wave. SynopsisFormed in 1970, prog-rock supergroup Emerson, Lake, and Palmer was the progeny of keyboardist Keith Emerson (of The Nice), guitarist/bassist/vocalist Greg Lake (King Crimson), and drummer Carl Palmer (Atomic Rooster, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown). Enjoying massive success and huge album sales in the seventies before disbanding in the early eighties, Live at Montreux 1997 captures their reunification in the nineties. Originally released on standard DVD in November 2004, this 90-minute concert features ELP classics “Kam Evil 9,” “Hoedown,” and “Take a Pebble,” melded with rare tracks that never appeared on their studio albums, such as “Touch and Go,” “Dance Creole,” and “Carmina Burana.” http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1376 Michael Cera needs to pay closer attention to the projects he signs onto. While the upcoming Scott Pilgrim looks to be a fantastic action/comedy film, Cera’s recent theatrical (and direct to video) works have been nothing short of abysmal. First he somehow appeared in Extreme Movie for a few minutes; then co-starred in Year One, a truly abysmal little film, and Paper Heart which wasn’t so much bad as it was disappointing. Then he returned to theaters in 2010 with Youth in Revolt, a film where Cera would play a bad-ass version of himself and…well, that’s it really. It’s a pretty simple (and strange) plot that truly has about as much laughter as any of the aforementioned movies. SynopsisYOUTH IN REVOLT is a coming-of-age comedy that puts a fresh and outrageous stamp on a tale of adolescent obsession and rebellion. Based on the acclaimed novel by C.D. Payne, YOUTH IN REVOLT is the story of Nick Twisp - a unique, but affable teen with a taste for the finer things in life like Sinatra and Fellini - who falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful, free-spirited Sheeni Saunders (Portia Doubleday) while on a family vacation. But family, geography and jealous ex-lovers conspire to keep these two apart. With Sheeni's encouragement, Nick abandons his dull, predictable life and develops a rebellious alter ego: Francois. With his ascot, his moustache and his cigarette, Francois will stop at nothing to be with Sheeni, and leads Nick Twisp on a path of destruction with unpredictable and uproarious consequences. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1375 Showgirls is kind of a terrible movie. I’m sure that will surprise no one who has seen the film as it has become quite the horrible cult classic over the years and has really proceeded to break quite a few records when it comes to the film medium. Not only was it the first widely distributed NC-17 film in theaters, but it was also one of MGM’s best selling films of all time on home video. This of course led to subsequent re-releases over the years that only further planted the film firmly in its cult status. Now Fox has pushed out a 15th Anniversary Sinsational Edition on Blu-ray which…well, it’s got absolutely zero new content on it aside from the HD transfer. SynopsisThe show is about to begin. Sex, seduction, and betrayal come together in the outrageously unforgettable camp classic Showgirls: 15th Anniversary Sinsational Edition, hitting the strip on Blu-ray June 15 from MGM Home Entertainment. Its Vegas, baby, and Nomi’s (Elizabeth Berkley) dreams and desires to make it big are as sharp as a stiletto heel. When she catches the eye of Cristal (Gina Gershon), the Stardust’s sexy headliner, Nomi is on the brink of living her dream. But she soon realizes that there is only room for one starlet on the marquee… and that either she or Cristal will have to take the fall! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1374 Generally speaking male driven romantic comedies don’t do too well unless your last name is Apatow, so the fact that She’s Out of My League was promoted as a lot raunchier than it perhaps truly was is no surprise. The comedy, made for $20 million, brought in a respectable $42 million in worldwide box office receipts—which is surprisingly good not only because our lead, Jay Baruchel, is usually relegated to the secondary roles, but also because the film really kind of tried to combine the raunchier testosterone comedy with the more predictable romantic comedy ending…all while wrapped up in an R-rated shell. SynopsisIn this outrageous comedy, Kirk (Jay Baruchel, “Knocked Up”, “Tropic Thunder”), an average guy, can’t believe his luck when the successful and gorgeous babe Molly (Alice Eve, “Sex and the City 2”) falls for him. His smart-ass friends, his crazy family, and even his obnoxious ex-girlfriend are just as shocked as he is. Now, see what the critics are calling a “rowdy blast”* as Kirk goes to great lengths - including some hardcore man-scaping - to make the relationship work and prove that she’s not out of his league. *Peter Travers, ROLLING STONE http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1373 Johnny Bravo was one of my absolute favorite cartoons when I was growing up. Cartoon Network could do no wrong in my eyes as they adapted cartoon after cartoon from their What a Cartoon Show to be given full season runs. Although Bravo was far from the most popular, that designation belongs to Dexter’s Laboratory or the worldwide sensation that was The Powerpuff Girls, he stuck out in my mind simply because of his stupidity and his Elvis-driven voice. It’s an extreme parody to be sure, but growing up I would watch that channel for hours on end (for better or worse) and Bravo is always a cartoon I would plead to stay up late to watch. Needless to say revisiting the series and characters thirteen years after it first debuted was a bit of a trip. SynopsisJoin Johnny Bravo, the dim-witted, girl-chasing, muscle-flexing, sunglasses-wearing, clown-hating, mama-loving pretty boy as he karate-chops his way through 13 Outrageous Episodes of action-packed antics that’ll rock your world! Hilarious pop-culture references including spoofs of Schoolhouse Rock, The Wizard of Oz, The Jungle Book and Dr. Seuss serve up gut-busting laughs. Guest appearances from Scooby-Doo and the Mystery, Inc. gang along with celebrities like Farrah Fawcett, Adam West and Donny Osmond boost this 2-Disc Complete Season One Collection to hubba-hubba status. Play it cool, like Johnny would, and play this heaping helping of pure Bravo! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1372 As many TV shows as I watch, Supernatural was never one of them. The CW network, for me, has never been home to a lineup of “must-watch” shows, which is mainly due to Smallville being such a disappointment over the past four or five seasons. In any case, I never even thought about watching Supernatural if only because the premise seemed so similar to Angel and it had a guy from Smallville in it that got to be a bit annoying. In any case, that’s in the past—when the third season arrived on Blu-ray (and subsequently on my doorstep), it was time for me to take up watching another new show, which is probably the last thing I needed considering I’m already up to twenty or so now. Now with the first season on Blu-ray for the first time, I can watch (again) how it all started…goofy haircuts and all. SynopsisThe Creepy. The Demented. The Unexplained. The Unearthly. Sam Winchester (Jared Padalecki) grew up hunting such terrifying things. But that’s all past. Law school beckons him. So does safety and normalcy. That is, until Sam’s estranged brother Dean (Jensen Ackles) appears with troubling news: their father has disappeared, a man who’s hunted evil for 22 years. So to find their father, the brothers must hunt what their father hunts…and Sam must return to the life he’d rather leave behind. Hold on tight for all 22 Season One Episodes of the edgy, hip series that has viewers in its grip and critics enthralled. Confront the Supernatural! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1371 You know a film is hard to promote when the only thing they can slap on the cover is “From the studio that brought you The Proposal.” It’s an entirely honest sentiment of course, but it’s not as if the studio has a 100% perfect track record when it comes to releasing films, although it’s probably one of Disney’s better off-shoots (or purchased off-shoots, however Touchstone came to be theirs I don’t know). In any case When in Rome was never really made up to be anything more than the terribly cliché and predictable romantic comedy that it was—not that it did too poorly at the box office, as despite a overwhelmingly negative critical response it pulled in nearly $40 million worldwide. SynopsisAn ambitious young New Yorker (Kristen Bell), disillusioned with romance, takes a whirlwind trip to Rome where she defiantly plucks magic coins from a fountain of love, inexplicably igniting the passion of those who threw them in: a sausage magnate (Danny DeVito), a street magician (John Heder), an adoring painter (Will Arnet) and a self-admiring model (Dax Shepard). But when a charming reporter (Josh Duhamel) pursues her with equal zest, how will she know if his love is the real thing? http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1370 With even past great studios like MGM now facing extinction, it’s no wonder that newer film production companies have an even more difficult time getting started. Such is the case with Unthinkable’s original production company, as the (fairly) star-studded piece was eventually forced to leak out online via various unscrupulous methods before it even saw its eventual direct-to-video release. While the film definitely has a fair amount of admirable qualities, it seems as if the film’s production was fraught not only with budget constraints but also with editorial ones as two different endings to the film ended up being made, with the less desirable of the two being the first that many saw (assuming they pirated it online, anyway). SynopsisThe most suspenseful thriller of the year explores just how far we will go to protect ourselves and our country. When a nuclear expert-turned-extremist (Michael Sheen, "Underworld") plants devices in three separate cities, the country's counter-terrorism force springs into action and captures him. But the location of his bombs remains a mystery. With time running out, FBI agent Helen Brody (Carrie-Anne Moss, "Disturbia") agrees to work alongside a mysterious interrogator known only as "H" (Samuel L. Jackson, "Lakeview Terrace), whose ruthless methods get results. But a power struggle develops between Brody, "H' and the terrorist, and what happens next is unbelievable and -ultimately-Unthinkable! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1369 Among Steven Seagal fans, Marked for Death is considered one of his absolute best. This is disturbing to me after watching the film because it is such a ridiculous movie…but I guess we (Americans) have to have our own brand of cheesy, poorly assembled action flicks too. I mean we can’t always rely on those bad ninja movies to be continuously made, can we? Well we probably can, but when you have someone like Seagal around to punch people, shoot guns, and blow stuff up it seems like kind of a waste not to utilize the man’s many “talents.” I am, of course, mocking him but when he makes film after film that is basically the same thing but with a smaller and smaller budget, you can’t help but ridicule the man. SynopsisHe’s a good cop. In a bad mood. Furiously paced and visually striking, Marked for Death puts action star Steven Seagal (Driven To Kill, Under Siege) up against a deadly Jamaican drug posse. Just retired from the Drug Enforcement Agency, John Hatcher (Seagal) returns to his hometown and quickly discovers that drugs have infiltrated his old neighborhood. Determined to drive the dealers out, Hatcher crosses paths with a ferocious Jamaican druglord who vows that Hatcher and his family are now “marked for death.” Widely considered by fans and critics alike to be one of Seagal’s very best films Marked for Death is pure action, loaded with fight scenes integrating heavy elements of aikido. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1368 I know we’re headed towards 2012, but seriously—there was a lot of apocalypse/post-apocalypse movies in 2009 (and leaking into 2010). This isn’t necessarily a bad thing but when two films, both The Road and The Book of Eli, produce two very similar and violent worlds (not only in tone but also in visual style), it makes you wonder if we aren’t settling in for a row of visually and mentally depressing films. In any case it seems critics are already getting a bit fed up on the genre, as The Book of Eli was a clean split down the middle in most cases, with many finding the film to be a bit too overambitious for the type of story it contained. Even with negative reviews the power of Denzel Washington couldn’t be denied as it swept itself to a worldwide total of over $150 million. SynopsisEli walks alone in post-apocalyptic America. He heads west along the Highway of Death on a mission he doesn’t fully understand but knows he must complete. In his backpack is the last copy of a book that could become the wellspring of a revived society. Or in the wrong hands, the hammer of a despot. Denzel Washington is Eli, who keeps his blade sharp and his survival instincts sharper as his quest thrusts him into a savage wasteland…and into explosive conflict with a resourceful warlord (Gary Oldman) set on possessing the book. “We walk by faith, not by sight,” quotes Eli. Under the taut direction of the Hughes Brothers (Menace II Society), those words hit home with unexpected meaning and power. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1367 Hot from the vaults of 1997 comes The Edge, the thrilling arctic caper starring Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin. Don’t recognize the cover? Then picture the same actors but with very angry faces that are locked in a constipated/screaming motion. Got it? No? Well, I don’t blame you. The film made very few waves at the box office and even fewer with critics who were fairly lukewarm when it came to praising this film. Despite a solid pair of leads, even they couldn’t save this largely mediocre film from obscurity, although its fans are likely pretty thrilled by this Blu-ray release as it marks the first anamorphic release the film has ever seen. Of course this also makes for another The Edge home video release with zero extras. SynopsisThe Edge boasts an exciting cast, including Academy Award winner* Anthony Hopkins (The Silence of the Lambs, Meet Joe Black), Alec Baldwin (The Departed, “30 Rock”) and supermodel Elle Macpherson (Sirens, Batman & Robin). A plane crash in the freezing Alaskan wilderness pits intellectual billionaire Charles Morse (Hopkins) against self-satisfied fashion photographer Robert Green (Baldwin) in a brutal struggle for survival. They find themselves teamed up against nature and their own inner demons, including tensions over Morse’s luminous wife (Macpherson). Each soon discovers that the greatest danger resides not in nature, but from human fear, treachery, and quite possibly murder. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1366 After Martin Scorsese's past efforts with films involving more down-to-earth plots and characters, turning to a psychological horror film for his first feature-length film since The Departed was definitely a bit of a change of pace for the director. He’s definitely no stranger to traversing various time periods and the films 1950s setting certainly feels like you’re in the usual Scorsese place at first…but within minutes of docking on Shutter Island, our main characters give us a clear indication that this isn’t going to be your usual Scorsese or drama-filled DiCaprio outing. While critics were somewhat mixed on the whole thing, audiences seemed to love it as the film went on to make $294 million worldwide—a personal best for Scorsese. SynopsisAcademy Award® winning† director MARTIN SCORSESE once again teams up with LEONARDO DICAPRIO in this spine-chilling thriller that critics say “sizzles with so much suspense that it’s hot to the touch.”** When U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (DiCaprio) arrives at the asylum for the criminally insane on Shutter Island, what starts as a routine investigation quickly takes a sinister turn. As the investigation unfolds and Teddy uncovers more shocking and terrifying truths about the island, he learns there are some places that never let you go. **Peter Travers, ROLLING STONE. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1365 Although the quality of his movies can vary wildly, there are few directors out there with the resilience of Mel Brooks. His films have spanned generations and spanned nearly three decades worth of entertainment with some of the best, brightest, and funniest talent in Hollywood. Although you don’t see much of him anymore (aside from the rather disastrous attempt at a Spaceballs animated series), his catalog speaks for itself and this recent wave of his classics on Blu-ray is fantastic representation of his works (if you didn’t already pick up that box set from around Christmas at least…in which case if you did, you can ignore these individual releases) if you aren’t already well-versed in the world of Mel Brooks. SynopsisAn outrageous homage to the Hitchcock thriller about a nut-job with a paralyzing fear of heights, High Anxiety stars the comic genius himself as renowned Harvard psychiatrist Dr. Richard Thorndyke who’s just become head of the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very Very Nervous. Co-starring Harvey Korman, Cloris Leachman and Madeline Kahn, High Anxiety is considered one of Brooks’ best. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1364 Although the quality of his movies can vary wildly, there are few directors out there with the resilience of Mel Brooks. His films have spanned generations and spanned nearly three decades worth of entertainment with some of the best, brightest, and funniest talent in Hollywood. Although you don’t see much of him anymore (aside from the rather disastrous attempt at a Spaceballs animated series), his catalog speaks for itself and this recent wave of his classics on Blu-ray is fantastic representation of his works (if you didn’t already pick up that box set from around Christmas at least…in which case if you did, you can ignore these individual releases) if you aren’t already well-versed in the world of Mel Brooks. SynopsisThe term “revisionist history” is given a new meaning in History Of The World: Part I, a laugh-filled version of the story of mankind. Featuring an all-star cast with Brooks, Dom DeLuise, Madeline Kahn and Gregory Hines, the film proves that nothing, including history, is sacred. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1363 Julius Shulman was, as many experts agree, the world's greatest architectural photographer. Narrated by Dustin Hoffman, "Visual Acoustics" celebrates the life and career of this brilliant artist and highlights not only the iconic images that made the man, but the magnetic character behind those images. This fascinating portrait is a testament both to the evolution of modern architecture and to the joyful gentleman who captured its indelible images.SynopsisNarrated by Dustin Hoffman, VISUAL ACOUSTICS celebrates the life and career of Julius Shulman, the world’s greatest architectural photographer, whose images brought modern architecture to the American mainstream. Shulman captured the work of nearly every major modern and progressive architect since the 1930s including Frank Lloyd Wright, Richard Neutra, John Lautner and Frank Gehry. His images epitomized the singular beauty of Southern California’s modernist movement and brought its iconic structures to the attention of the general public. This unique film is both a testament to the evolution of modern architecture and a joyful portrait of the magnetic, whip-smart gentleman who chronicled it with his unforgettable images. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1362 After six films between 2000 and 2005, many expected Spielberg to keep cranking out the various productions. While many of those films varied in subject matter (Munich was a far cry from Catch Me If You Can), a few of them saw Spielberg’s return to the sci-fi/fantasy genre that fans of his work loved so dearly. One of the films, War of the Worlds, was surrounded in secrecy during its production (a bit odd for a film that was essentially a remake), which only further built up hype for the film. It definitely worked in its favor; the $132 million budget for the film brought back a fantastic return on investment for Paramount as the film went on to gross nearly $600 million worldwide. SynopsisAn ordinary man has to protect his children against alien invaders in this science fiction thriller, freely adapted from the classic story by H.G. Wells. Ray Ferrier (Tom Cruise) is a dockworker living in New Jersey, divorced from his first wife Mary Ann (Miranda Otto) and estranged from his two children Rachel and Robbie (Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin), of whom he has custody on weekends. On one such visitation, looking after the kids becomes a little more difficult when, after a series of strange lighting storms hit his neighborhood, Ray discovers that a fleet of death-ray robotic spaceships have emerged nearby, part of the first wave of an all-out alien invasion of the Earth. Transporting his children from New York to Boston in an attempt to find safety at Mary Ann's parents' house, Ray must learn to become the protector and provider he never was in marriage. Also starring Tim Robbins, War of the Worlds was directed by Steven Spielberg, who had been planning the project for years, but set it aside until a wave of "alien invasion" films (led by Independence Day) had run its course. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1361 Dirty Dancing is perhaps one of the most popular films of all time and if the continued success, sales, and re-release of the film are any indication we will continue to see new merchandise for this film trickle out over the years. No doubt a resurged interest in the film is due to the sad and unfortunate passing of Patrick Swayze, but the film has enjoyed success through the years long before that as the meagerly budgeted film (a lowly $5 million) went on to rake in over $214 million worldwide from its original release up to its 20th Anniversary theatrical re-release. Now Lionsgate celebrates the film once again on Blu-ray with an all-new visual and audio transfer along with a whole host of extras, both old and new, in a limited “Keepsake Edition” that packs not only a pair of discs into the set but also a 52-page hardcover book and a coupon for $50 off a stay at the “real” Kellerman’s Resort in Virginia. SynopsisThe Dirty Dancing phenomenon returns to captivate fans with the Dirty Dancing: Limited Keepsake Edition. Just in time for Mother’s Day, the newly remastered DVD and Blu-ray Disc of this timeless film, includes all existing special features, plus over an hour of brand new bonus materials. These include a heartfelt Patrick Swayze tribute, three new featurettes; that take a look at the film locations, a look at the overwhelming popularity of the film and a previously recorded interview with Patrick Swayze discussing the music from the film and his personal contribution of “She’s Like the Wind,” as well as a Fan Reel gathered by Facebook fans. The DVD and Blu-ray edition will be housed in collectible packaging that includes a 52-page hardcover Dirty Dancing commemorative book plus a coupon for fifty dollars off a stay at the “real” Kellerman’s Resort (Mountain Lake Hotel in Virginia). In addition, the Blu-Ray Disc contains a digital copy of the film plus an exclusive featurette as well as a never before released stills gallery, Eleanor Bergstein’s Shooting Script and Dirty Dancing: Live in Concert. This new edition is a must-have for all loyal Dirty Dancing fans, and is a fond reflection of the late Patrick Swayze’s inspiring performance. Starring Golden Globe® nominees Jennifer Grey (Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical, 1988) as “Baby” Houseman, and Patrick Swayze (Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Dirty Dancing – Comedy/Musical, 1988) as the sexy Johnny Castle, Dirty Dancing is the story of a naïve girl who meets an experienced dance instructor and becomes his pupil both in dance and in love. The film, named one of the Top 10 Date Movies of all time according to an E! Entertainment Television poll, also features a hit-filled soundtrack including the Grammy® Award winning “I’ve Had The Time Of My Life.” This classic film continues to stand the test of time with audiences all over the world. Nobody will put this edition in the corner! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1360 Visually engaging and quite amazing to look at, Alice in Wonderland really is a marvel to behold on Blu-ray. The film just looks fantastic, no question about it. But, as great as it looks, and as fluffy-enjoyable as it is, I can’t help but think I’ve seen this Tim Burton movie before, and I’m pretty sure it was called Charlie & The Chocolate Factory. Steeped in familiarity, the cleverness and stunning design work does get a bit watered down thanks to a "been there, done that" vibe and rigid story, but the film still delivers a pretty satisfying experience.Synopsis:From Walt Disney Pictures and visionary director Tim Burton comes an epic 3D fantasy adventure Alice in Wonderland, a magical and imaginative twist on some of the most beloved stories of all time. Johnny Depp stars as the Mad Hatter and Mia Wasikowska as 19-year-old Alice, who returns to the whimsical world she first encountered as a young girl, reuniting with her childhood friends: the White Rabbit, Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the Dormouse, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, and of course, the Mad Hatter. Alice embarks on a fantastical journey to find her true destiny and end the Red Queen's reign of terror. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1359 After a first season that pleased both critics and a newly formed collective of fans, Burn Notice quickly joined the ranks of the USA fleet of shows that have started on and flourished on the unique cable network. There are few networks like USA where these quirky and out of the ordinary shows can spawn and flourish and they’ve done quite the superb job of crafting these shows that are refreshingly original. It started early on with Monk and continues with new seasons of Psych and Burn Notice and even with the new additions of Royal Pains and White Collar, both of which will be returning to the network whenever USA’s oddly divided seasons start up again. By now, Burn Notice could be considered a USA veteran, despite only gearing up for its fourth season in a few weeks, and this third season attracted some of the shows highest ratings yet (and also, sadly, some of its lowest…but let’s not dwell on that). SynopsisJeffrey Donovan (Changeling, “Crossing Jordan”) plays blacklisted spy Michael Westen, a free agent following his “burn notice” that effectively wiped out his existence: no work history, money or identity. Watching his back are friends, Sam played by Bruce Campbell (Army Of Darkness) and sexy ex-girlfriend Fiona played by Gabrielle Anwar (“The Tudors,” Scent Of A Woman), but with friends like this Westen often finds himself in even hotter water! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1358 Musicals seemed to find a resurgence in theaters a few years back, what with Moulin Rouge and Chicago lighting up theaters as well as the Oscars. Things died down again until Chicago director Rob Marshall returned with Nine, a musical adapted from the broadway play of a novel of the same name…or something convoluted like that. Regardless of its origins, the film ended up being a rather big disappointment for all involved as the $80 million film grossed less than a fourth of that domestically and barely over $50 million when worldwide receipts are taken into account. Despite poor critical reception mixed with the lackluster ticket sales, the film still earned itself four Oscar nominations although it ultimately won nothing. SynopsisNine is a musical following a film director named Guido Contini, who is in his middle age. He is trying to complete his next film. His main problem is that he has too many women in his life. Luisa, his wife, Carla his sexy mistress, and Claudia, his muse and protege. A vibrant and provocative musical filled with love, lust, passion, and glamour. With its incredible all-star cast, amazing performances and stunning visuals, this razzle-dazzle extravaganza will make you long to BE ITALIAN. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1357 MY DOG: AN UNCONDITIONAL LOVE STORY explores the unique relationship between people and their beloved pets through candid interviews with notable dog lovers. Viewers are offered an intimate glimpse into the lives of these actors and musicians, authors and designers through the aspect of their lives that unites them all: the profound connection they have with their dogs. A tribute to all the dogs that have made our lives richer and happier, MY DOG captures the remarkable bond between our dogs and ourselves. In appreciation, twenty percent of every dollar earned by the film will be donated to nonprofit animal welfare charities designated by our participants.SynopsisMy Dog: An Unconditional Love Story explores the unique relationship between humans and their canine companions through candid interviews with famous dog lovers such as Richard Gere and Carey Lowell, Edward Albee, Edie Falco, Isaac Mizahri, and Glenn Close. Viewers are offered an intimate glimpse into the lives of these actors and musicians, authors and designers through the aspect of their lives that unites them all: the profound connection they have with their dogs. A tribute to the dogs that have made our lives richer and happier, MY DOG captures the remarkable bond that see us through the best and worst of time and makes us better, kinder people. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1356 Truly good TV shows are hard to come by. Truly good web series are even harder to come by. Simply put the series online are usually lacking in production value or truly good talent to be taken seriously. Or when they are well-produced, the concept is mildly interesting but not enough to be something you truly go out of your way to watch. Recently, however, original content produced by online groups and communities has taken an upswing and a large reason for that is due to The Guild. A series created, produced, and starring Felicia Day (most notably of Joss Whedon universe fame), The Guild centers on a group of MMORPG players who have their own local guild. A bit of a niche concept, but the internet is all about dialing in on ideas and concepts that are often focused towards one group anyway.SynopsisWith over 50 million worldwide views, THE GUILD is one of the most popular episodic comedies on the World Wide Web—and now it’s back! Season 3 finds our favorite Guild falling apart after the disastrous party that ended Season 2. Waiting outside a gaming store for their game’s latest expansion pack, they encounter the Axis of Anarchy, a rival Guild led by Fawkes (Wil Wheaton, Star Trek: The Next Generation). Vork resigns in shame, leaving Codex (Felicia Day) in charge of keeping the Guild together in the face of Axis of Anarchy’s efforts to destroy them. Will the Guild members overcome their differences to survive? This DVD includes all 12 episodes from Season 3, along with an epic amount of exclusive bonus material not seen on the Internet. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1355 The year was 2008 and the TV scene was bleak. The writers’ strike cut short and/or neutered the TV landscape and left us with a sea of forgettable movies that trickled into theaters. All hope seemed lost or at least that was my feeling because I was bored out of my mind. My favorite shows ended earlier than they should have and as entertaining as seeing Conan O’Brien in a beard was, it simply didn’t make up for the fact all I had left to distract me was a hundred or so movies I had yet to watch (yet somehow inexplicably became part of my collection regardless) and a myriad of untouched video games. Thankfully the internet came to my rescue, as it so often does in times of boredom, with a ton of original content created just for the web. One such production was Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog, which may just be the greatest Joss Whedon produced venture about a wanna-be super villain exhibited through song ever made (true story). SynopsisNeil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother) stars as Billy, A.K.A. Dr. Horrible, a budding super villain whose plans for world domination continually go awry. His two goals: getting accepted into the Evil League of Evil, and working up the guts to speak to his laundromat crush Penny, played by Felicia Day (The Guild). The only thing standing in his way is Captain Hammer, Billy’s superhero arch nemesis played by Nathan Fillion (Firefly, Castle). With one big score, Billy could get into the E.L.E. and earn the respect of Penny, but only if he can keep her away from the dashing Captain Hammer. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1354 From its foundation as a Puritan colony in 1630, to the ban on William S. Burroughs’ groundbreaking The Naked Lunch during the free-wheeling ‘60s, Boston has a long, proud tradition of suppressing freedom of expression. Yet it has also nurtured some of our nation’s most provocative individuals: Donna Summer, the Pixies, Edgar Allen Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson. Guess which side of that cultural divide David Cross falls on? It was here in Massachusetts’ capital city that our hero dropped out of college after the longest semester of his young life. Here that he first forged his career in the white-hot crucible of the late ‘80s comedy scene, with exactly the sort of smart, thought-provoking remarks that could have once landed a man in the stockades. And here that he returned, after years in the wildernesses of Los Angeles and New York, to record the performances documented on Bigger and Blackerer.SynopsisBigger and Blackerer was taped during two such shows, back-to-back on the same evening at Boston’s Wilbur Theatre. As you may have surmised from the packaging, this title applies to both a CD and a DVD. These are separate releases in separate formats with the same name. Some of the material contained on the Bigger and Blackerer DVD, directed by Lance Bangs, will air as a television special on the cable channel Epix on April 10th. And, yes, there is some overlap between the CD and the DVD, but not a lot. Though both media are housed on a shiny, silver five-inch disc, each is an entity unto itself, full of material that appears solely on one or the other. Only by watching the DVD will you learn of Cross’ unique relationship with the deaf community, share his canny insights into the editorial machinations behind the Bible, and marvel at how well a bald, middle-aged white guy can fill out a pair of jeans. Yet one must listen to the CD in order to hear about gastro-intestinal misadventures with his dog Ollie Red Sox, or sing along with “The Sultan’s Revenge,” the swinging, Vegas-style opening number composed by Cross and his good friend Mark Rivers (author of the theme to Mr. Show). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1353 Nicholas Sparks novels have littered the romantic genre for years now and with each new novel he puts out, a film adaptation of a previous one trickles into theaters. While the films rarely boast big name stars, they’re made for a relatively small budget and often rake in three to four times what was invested into them. Such is the case with Dear John, the latest Sparks film that mixes some truly intelligible nonsense in with a supposed romantic storyline. Although critics slammed it, audiences ate it up and while I’m not going to call all of Sparks works uninteresting, this is a very poor indication of the mans works. SynopsisIt was two weeks that would change their lives forever. Soon after John (Channing Tatum – PUBLIC ENEMIES, G.I. JOE) and Savannah (Amanda Seyfried - MAMMA MIA, TV’s “Big Love") fall madly in love, their relationship is put on hold. With one leaving to complete his service, and the other to complete her college education, they pass the time by exchanging a continuous stream of love letters, until they can be reunited permanently a year later. But when war breaks out, their separation is extended indefinitely. Will their relationship survive the greatest test of all: the test of time? Based on the bestselling novel from the author of “The Notebook,” DEAR JOHN is a timeless romance that will warm your heart. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1352 Although the quality of his movies can vary wildly, there are few directors out there with the resilience of Mel Brooks. His films have spanned generations and spanned nearly three decades worth of entertainment with some of the best, brightest, and funniest talent in Hollywood. Although you don’t see much of him anymore (aside from the rather disastrous attempt at a Spaceballs animated series), his catalog speaks for itself and this recent wave of his classics on Blu-ray is fantastic representation of his works (if you didn’t already pick up that box set from around Christmas at least…in which case if you did, you can ignore these individual releases) if you aren’t already well-versed in the world of Mel Brooks. SynopsisBrooks pulls off another serious spoof on a classic with Robin Hood: Men in Tights. The one-of-a-kind cast includes Cary Elwes as the head of the merry men, Roger Rees as the evil dyslexic Sheriff of “Rottingham,” Richard Lewis as the seriously neurotic Prince John, Amy Yasbeck as the put-upon Maid Marian, Patrick Stewart as ultrrrra-Scottish King Richard, Tracey Ullman as a much-sought-after soothsayer named Latrine and Dave Chappelle and Isaac Hayes as hilarious characters named Achchoo and Asneeze. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1351 On July 4, 1996, Tupac Shakur’s concert at the House of Blues proved to be his final performance before his untimely death two months later. On May 25, Eagle Rock Entertainment will proudly release this concert in the Blu-ray format, when Tupac: Live at the House of Blues hits shelves. As a critical component to Death Row records, alongside other icons such as Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, Tupac brought a multi-dimensional appeal, allowing fans to bond with hip-hop like never before. This Blu-ray captures the raw charisma of one of Hip Hop’s most revered artists. He contributed an immense body of work in his brief five-year career, as evidenced in this House of Blues performance.SynopsisFilmed in LA, the DVD showcases hip-hop’s poet laureate joined by Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, K-Ci & JoJo, Outlawz, and Tha Dogg Pound through 118 minutes of hits and collaborations. 24 tracks deep, with five bonus songs, it shows Tupac’s commanding presence, as he traverses from R&B cuts to straight club bangers to hard knock anthems. He also throws Snoop Dogg a few bones, featuring such hits as “Murder Was The Case” and “Who Am I (What’s My Name).” http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1349 Few things can prepare you for The Road. Reading the book it is based on would be a big one, but if you’re like me and haven’t read a book that wasn’t school related for most of your existence then chances are you won’t have known about the original novelization beforehand. The other thing that can prepare you is reading a review of it so you can really get an idea for just how dark and depressing the film is. Finally there’s watching it a second time, because after the first at least you’ll know that this isn’t a film that is something to be taken lightly. There are some serious themes in this film and it’s because of those that it scored high with critics and low with box office sales, bringing the lightly budgeted $25 million dollar film to a mere $23 million worldwide (although with fewer than 400 theaters in the US showing it, it’s no wonder it did so poorly). SynopsisFrom Cormac McCarthy, author of No Country For Old Men, comes the highly anticipated big screen adaptation of the beloved, best-selling and Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, THE ROAD. An all-star cast is featured in this epic post-apocalyptic tale of the survival of a father and his young son as they journey across a barren America that was destroyed by a mysterious cataclysm. A masterpiece adventure, THE ROAD boldly imagines a future in which men are pushed to the worst and the best that they are capable of - a future in which a father and his son are sustained by love. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1348 It’s easy to be taken in by the starpower that Valentine’s Day exudes as there is well over twenty well-known celebrities in the film. In many instances they’re on the screen together and over the course of the sporadic film they cross paths and end up as entirely different couples by the end of the film. The films ploy definitely worked—the paltry $52 million dollar budget paid off with an over $200 million worldwide intake. As far as romantic comedies go, this was definitely the Transformers 2 of its genre—lots of pomp and show and very little (if any) substance. SynopsisThe starriest cast you may ever see sparkles in a hilarious and heartwarming romcom from the director of Pretty Woman and The Princess Diaries. Stories crisscross, collide and boomerang in this look at a day in the life of love. There’s a proposal. Flowers that didn’t get sent. A big fat secret that’s finally told. The “I’ll show up and surprise him” that ended up surprising her. Fights, kisses, wrong turns, right moves and more. Whether new to or through with love, you'll fall in love with this 19-star, funny-side-up celebration of romance. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1347 Mel Gibson’s return to the screen seem to go as quickly as it arrived with Edge of Darkness making little noise in the cinema during its late January theatrical run. With films still fighting off Avatar for the top spot, Edge of Darkness proved no match and when paired with the weak critical response the film left theaters altogether after ten short weeks. With a budget of $80 million and a worldwide intake of less than that, Darkness proved to be a bit of a dud for the studio as well as Gibson, although home video and rental sales will no doubt make the remainder of the films budget back. SynopsisThe bullet that killed his daughter was meant for Boston cop Thomas Craven. That’s what police brass and Craven himself think, but that’s not what the investigation finds. Clue after clue and witness after witness, the search leads him into a shadowy realm where money and political intrigue intersect. If Craven wasn’t a target before, he – and anyone linked to his inquiry – now is. Mel Gibson stars in his first screen lead in eight years, making Craven’s grief palpable and his quest for payback stone-cold and relentless. Martin Campbell (Casino Royale) directs from a screenplay co-written by The Departed’s William Monahan. Gibson is back, taking us to the edge…and into the sinister darkness. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1346 After the moderate success of Daredevil (and the cliffhanger “is she dead!?” ending that it contained), it was only natural Fox would push ahead with a sequel of sorts to the film. Well, more of a spin off really as we ended up with a film focusing on the love interest from Daredevil and simply because there’s no other reason to call the movie anything else the film was also named after the same character. And thus we got Elektra, perhaps the most disappointing super hero movie in recent memory, as it was not only horribly executed and poorly acted but it was also just downright embarrassing to watch as well. SynopsisElektra (Garner) is murdered by a ruthless killer but brought back to life by Stick (Stamp), a blind martial arts master. Stick trains Elektra in the martial art of Kimagure, whose practitioners can control the flow of life and death and live to destroy the evil organization called The Hand. After several years of intense training, she becomes a hired assassin. Upon receiving a contract for $2 million to kill Mark Miller (Visnjic) and his daughter Abby (Prout) Elektra must make a choice between good or evil in carrying out her deadly mission. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1345 It’s kind of amazing to me that a director like Francis Ford Coppola, perhaps one of the most recognized names in all of the film medium, can write and direct a film today and then no one really hears of it or goes to see it. Such was the case with Tetro (and, really, Youth Without Youth as well), Coppola’s 2009 film that saw a theatrical release in the US in October of the same year and graced a mere sixteen screens before bowing out. Granted, Coppola’s work hasn’t been the easiest to market as of late, but still the name should really sell itself and in the case of Tetro there really would’ve probably been a market for the film had it at least gone to even the local independent theaters rather than the chains. Regardless, Tetro garnered enough attention to receive significantly higher marks than his previous film (which I saw and am still not 100% convinced I saw the entire film, it was so random at times) and now Lionsgate has released it on Blu-ray for those to enjoy. SynopsisTetro is the hauntingly beautiful drama written and directed by five-time Academy Award® winner Francis Ford Coppola (Patton, Original Screenplay, 1970; The Godfather, Adapted Screenplay, 1972; The Godfather: Part II, Best Picture, Directing, Adapted Screenplay, 1974) that critics can’t stop praising. The San Francisco Chronicle called the film “the most beautiful looking movie you’ll see all year.” “It feels good to see Coppola back in form” praised Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times, and “there isn’t a frame of this raw and riveting movie that Coppola doesn’t invest with feeling” hailed Rolling Stone. Starring Vincent Gallo (Buffalo ’66) and set in Argentina, Tetro tells the bittersweet story of two brothers, of family lost and found and the conflicts and secrets within a highly creative Italian immigrant family. The film is Francis Ford Coppola’s first original screenplay since The Conversation, and he has called it his most autobiographical work ever. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1344 I have most likely committed a cinematic sin, as I have only watched the notorious sequel “Escape from L.A.,” but not the more revered original “Escape from New York.” Both are directed by John Carpenter, who definitely took a hit in his resume when he decided to take on a sequel. As most sequels go, it was given a higher budget, a quicker pace, and it was expected to be even more of an action fest. Unfortunately, that led to many gratuitous attempts at scenes that simply didn’t work, including a pathetic attempt at a CGI shark that is frequently seen as one of the worst graphics in the history of movies. Admittedly, however, I was very young when I first saw this - definitely younger than I should have been - and I actually enjoyed it at the time. Which begs the question, how bad is your R-rated movie, when only a kid can enjoy it?SynopsisThe man with the patch is back. Call him Snake. Kurt Russell rejoins filmmakers John Carpenter and Debra Hill to do to the Big Orange what they did to the Big Apple in Escape From New York – with even more futuristic thrills and slam-bang action! Into the 9.6-quaked Los Angeles of 2013 comes Snake Plissken (Russell). His job: wade through L.A.'s ruined landmarks to retrieve a doomsday device. Don't miss the excitement as Snake surfs Wilshire Blvd., shoots hoops at the Coliseum, dive bombs the Happy Kingdom theme park, and mixes it up with a wild assortment of friends, fiends and foes (Stacy Keach, Steve Buscemi, Peter Fonda, George Corraface, Cliff Robertson, Pam Grier and more). Escape From L.A. is a "go-for-broke action extravaganza!" (Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1343 Although in years past Eastwood’s directorial efforts came in pairs (with Flags of Our Fathers paired with Letters from Iwo Jima and Changeling released in the same year as Gran Tornio, 2009 saw the release of a single film from Eastwood and it predictably netted a pair of Oscar nominations (although it didn’t win for either). The film was a departure for Eastwood in some respects, but at the same time the focus on a historical event and what it meant in the overall big picture is what Eastwood has often gone for in his historical expeditions in the past. While it will unlikely be one of his most revered or talked about works, Invictus is nevertheless another example of not only Eastwood’s directorial talent but also his knack for picking out leading stars that elevate the film to new heights. SynopsisWhat does Nelson Mandela do after becoming president of South Africa? He rejects revenge, forgives oppressors who jailed him 27 years for his fight against apartheid and finds hope of national unity in an unlikely place: the rugby field. Clint Eastwood (named 2009’s Best Director by the National Board of Review) directs an uplifting film about a team and a people inspired to greatness. Morgan Freeman (NBR’s Best Actor Award winner and Oscar nominee for this role) is Mandela, who asks the national rugby team captain (Best Supporting Actor Oscar nominee Matt Damon) and his squad to do the impossible and win the World Cup. Prepare to be moved – and thrilled. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1342 They really don’t make movies like this any more. Film-making today is definitely an entirely different beast than it was years and years ago. When watching a movie like Doctor Zhivago, you get the sense of an era of film-making lost to today’s creators. But things change, that’s inevitable, and revisiting a movie such as this is a definite jolt to how things used to be as compared to how they are now. But one thing, one of the many, I enjoyed about Doctor Zhivago is that, after all these years, the film manages to remain relevant even though it comes from decades past. Synopsis:David Lean's Doctor Zhivago is an exploration of the Russian Revolution as seen from the point of view of the intellectual, introspective title character (Omar Sharif). As the political landscape changes, and the Czarist regime comes to an end, Dr.Zhivago's relationships reflect the political turmoil raging about him. Though he is married, the vagaries of war lead him to begin a love affair with the beautiful Lara (Julie Christie). But he cannot escape the machinations of a band of selfish and cruel characters: General Strelnikov (Tom Courtenay), a Bolshevik General; Komarovsky (Rod Steiger), Lara's former lover; and Yevgraf (Alec Guinness), Zhivago's sinister half-brother. This epic, sweeping romance, told in flashback, captures the lushness of Moscow before the war and the violent social upheaval that followed. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Boris Pasternak. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1341 I have a feeling that years from now Daybreakers will become somewhat of a cult favorite. It has similar inspirations that made Underworld such an original feeling concept years ago, but unlike that series this film went from excellence to mediocrity to crap in the span of one film rather than three. Still, there is something to be said about this film as it does have a bit of originality to it as well as a brilliant view of the future (but not too distant future, as 2019 is less than a decade off at this point). Plus it throws more vampire lore at the viewers, even if it is the usual attributes (can’t go in the sun, drinks blood, pointy ears, grows wings, etc.) for the most part. Though the film didn’t make much of a splash at the box office, it did still turn a profit so I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw another installment in the future. SynopsisThe blood wars begin in Daybreakers! Making its Blu-ray Disc and DVD debut this Spring, the film stars two-time Academy Award® nominees Ethan Hawke (Actor in a Supporting Role, Training Day, 2001 and Adapted Screenplay, Before Sunset, 2004) and Willem Dafoe (Actor in a Supporting Role, Platoon, 1986 and Actor in a Supporting Role, Shadow of the Vampire, 2000). Critics are salivating over this sci-fi action thriller that has audiences on the edge of their seats! “Original, scary and action-packed” (Fangoria Magazine), Daybreakers is “confidently crafted and legitimately clever!” (Fearnet.com). Written and directed by The Spierig Brothers, audiences are introduced to a futuristic world - where vampires reign supreme and blood is big business. As the human population nears extinction, vampires must capture and farm every remaining human, or find a blood substitute before time runs out. However, a covert group of vampires makes a remarkable discovery, one which has the power to save the human race. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1340 Brothers jump from theatrical release (December 9th) to home video (March 23rd) was quick, but so was its stay in theaters. The modest drama was made for $26 million and it only just made that back domestically, so the receipts were obviously not enough to really warrant much trumpeting of its home video release. Despite the so-so reviews (it currently sits at a 60% on RottenTomatoes), the film was recommended by almost everyone just for one thing: the performances. With the three leads in the film not having much of a box office presence of late, the film was easily hyped up with the trumpeting of the actors riveting performances. While that didn’t exactly fill seats in the theaters, the film still was a moderate success with all things concerned and certainly not the worst of the myriad of foreign film remakes that have graced theaters before. SynopsisA Marine about to embark on his fourth tour of duty, Sam (Maguire) is a steadfast family man married to his high school sweetheart, the aptly named Grace (Portman), with whom he has two young daughters. Tommy (Gyllenhaal), his charismatic younger brother, is a drifter just out of jail who’s always gotten by on wit and charm. He slides easily into his role as family provocateur on his first night out of prison, which is also Sam’s farewell dinner with their parents, Elsie (Winningham) and Hank Cahill (Shepard). When Sam’s Blackhawk helicopter is shot down in the mountains of Afghanistan, the worst is presumed, leaving an enormous void in the family. Tommy steps in to fill the void with consequences that will shake the foundation of the entire family. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1339 Horror films seem to come and go throughout the year at odd times; while you’d think most would focus around the Halloween months, there are just so many “great” ideas for the genre that they often can’t wait. Which is why we just got a remake of Nightmare on Elm Street in the middle of May and why we rang in the new year with Legion, a pseudo-apocalypse tale that pitted angels against…well, other angels who refused to follow God’s commandments. It’s not really a fresh spin on the tale, especially with the TV show Supernatural amalgamating all of the best elements of those kinds of stories into one super-awesome season so far this year. I mean, that show is really fantastic and…oh, right, Legion. Yes, well…this movie stinks. SynopsisAt a remote desert truck stop, the fate of the world will be decided. Evil's armies are amassing. Armed and united by the Archangel Michael (Paul Bettany), a group of strangers become unwitting soldiers on the frontlines of the Apocalypse. Their mission: protect a waitress and her sacred unborn child from the relentless, bloody siege of the demonic legion. Also starring Dennis Quaid (G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF THE COBRA, VANTAGE POINT), Tyrese Gibson (TRANSFORMERS) and Lucas Black (JARHEAD). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1338 Despite Pierce Brosnan practically being a household name due to his tenure as James Bond throughout the 90’s, the rest of his work received practically no hope in comparison to when there was a new Bond film rolling out. One of these movies was the remake of 1968’s “The Thomas Crown Affair.” Admittedly I was only 12 when this movie was released, but given that most of family had been Bond, and eventually Brosnan, fans for quite awhile, you would think that more would have been said about this. Instead, I didn’t learn of the movie until they did, which was well after its home video release. Granted, I was too young to watch it thanks to the gratuitous bits of Rene Russo’s foray into movie nudity, but I intended to finally watch it someday. And, inevitably, I have.SynopsisThrill-seeking billionaire Thomas Crown (Brosnan) loves nothing more than courting disaster and winning. So when his world becomes too stiflingly safe, he pulls off his boldest stunt ever: stealing a priceless painting in broad daylight from one of Manhattan's most heavily guarded museums. But his post-heist excitement soon pales beside an even greater challenge: Catherine Banning (Russo). A beautiful insurance investigator hired to retrieve the artwork, Catherine's every bit as intelligent, cunning and hungry for adventure as he is. And just when Thomas realizes he's finally met his match, she skillfully leads him into a daring game of cat and mouse that's more intoxicating and dangerous than anything either of them has ever experienced before. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1337 Watching Dwayne Johnson’s career post wrestling you have to wonder how “The Rock” has gone from pummeling bad guys to taxiing children around to mountains or becoming...well, a tooth fairy. Ultimately the decision has paid off for him, however, since he manages to bring in quite a lot of money for these very family-friendly outings. Although Tooth Fairy cost nearly $50 million to make, it made double that when worldwide ticket sales were taken into consideration; impressive considering the film received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics and viewers alike. But never mind that now—Fox has pushed out a three-disc edition of the film that encompasses Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital Copy’s all in one set; after all, who doesn’t want to watch Johnson with wings on three different formats?SynopsisIn the spirit of The Game Plan and The Pacifier comes a funny “fish out of water comedy” perfect for the entire family. Hilarious and wholesome, Tooth Fairy arrives on Blu-ray Disc/DVD Triple Play and DVD May 4 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Dwayne Johnson (The Game Plan) stars as Derek Thompson, a hard-charging minor league hockey player whose nickname comes from his ability to knock out other players’ teeth. After discouraging a youngster’s hopes, he is ordered to one week’s hard labor as the real Tooth Fairy, complete with the requisite tutu, wings and magic wand. At first he “can’t handle the tooth,” but eventually learns how to adapt to his new position and finds himself rediscovering his own forgotten dreams. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1336 It’s no wonder that Kathryn Bigelow had a down-time of six years between films after the relative disappointment that K-19: The Widowmaker was. With a ballooned budget of over $100 million, the film went on to gross a meager $65 million worldwide, making it quite the box office failure. With tepid responses from critics and audiences alike (not to mention mixed feedback from the crew of the actual K-19 vessel of which this film is based on), K-19 seemed to disappear into relative obscurity after it bowed out of theaters. As we all know now, however, Bigelow’s next film, The Hurt Locker, was made for significantly less and although it too didn’t perform particularly well at the box office, it sure cleaned up at the Oscars. Perhaps due to this we’ll see a resurgence in the interest of her previous works as K-19 really isn’t all that bad of a film and worth checking out if only for the performances by Neeson and Ford. SynopsisInspired by a true story, "K-19: The Widowmaker" follows Captain Alexei Vostrikov (Harrison Ford) who, at the height of the Cold War, is ordered to take over command of the nuclear missile submarine K-19, pride of the Soviet Navy. His assignment: prepare the K-19 for sea and take her out on patrol - no matter what the cost. But problems with K-19 arise that may lead to a core meltdown and explosion that will certainly kill all aboard, and possibly trigger a nuclear war. In a daring act of heroism, Vostrikov must choose between his orders from the Kremlin and the lives of his men. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1335 This past few years of TV seasons have brought about some incredibly well done and original TV shows to not only grace the network stations but also cable broadcasters as well. Whether it’s the wealth of funny shows from USA or drama from FX, there are few stations not in the game of original material (even AMC jumped in with Mad Men). TNT is no stranger to original material either, although rarely has it ever jumped to the caliber of other networks that garner Emmy nominations and the like. Fortunately unless you require such things of your shows, shows don’t need Emmy nominations to be enjoyable and TNT’s Leverage, now on hiatus whilst fans wait for its third season, is a prime example of a pretty light and airy show that manages to be relentlessly entertaining.SynopsisThe master thieves of TNT’s hit drama Leverage are back for another high-voltage season of expert cons and action-packed heists. Following the destruction of their operational headquarters, Nate Ford (Academy Award® winner Timothy Hutton) and his highly skilled team of con artists reunite to take down the corrupt bigwigs. In Season Two, the Leverage team sets out to recover millions of dollars lost in a Ponzi scheme, stage a deadly virus outbreak, and go head-to-head against a rival crew of slick thieves. To fight the criminal underworld, the Leverage team knows the high-tech tricks of the trade to get the job done. Sometimes it’s good to be bad. This 4-disc DVD set of LEVERAGE: The 2nd Season includes 15 riveting episodes and is packed with cool special features. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1334 When I think “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” I think cartoon animation. Why? Well, it makes the most sense; why do live-action when they’re cartoons in a live-action world anyways? Furthermore, that’s the only thing I was left thinking about after this movie ended, that I wanted to watch the animated version of Alvin and the Chipmunks. The problem wasn’t with the acting, as the cast is full of people that I love in other works; the problem isn’t the songs, which are quite catchy despite their high-pitched mutation; the problem certainly a lack of focus on the titular characters. The writing, however, was abysmal throughout.SynopsisThe box office smash hit Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel sings and shakes its way to Blu-ray Disc/DVD Combo Pack, “Squeak-Along” double DVD, and DVD Single Disc March 30th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. A follow-up to 2007’s Alvin and the Chipmunks, Chipmunk singing sensations Alvin, Simon and Theodore are back for an encore in this hilarious “squeakquel” packed with over an hour more of music. The Squeak-Along bonus content includes new sing-alongs such as Beyonce’s “Single Ladies,” teaches audiences how to dance like the Chipmunks with the “Shake Your Groove Thing” dance instructional video, games and more nutty fun for the whole family! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1333 It’s remarkably clear to me that some films should never be made. I don’t want to point fingers at this one in particular but…ok, I will. This movie shouldn’t have been made. As much as I enjoyed the performances by the leads in it, I simply haven’t seen such a disappointing mixture of bad writing, directing, and editing from a film in a long time. There’s a good chance you’ve never even heard of this 2009 film either, as it’s so obscure that even Wikipedia has scorned it for an entry. Although it’s director, Robert Kurtzman, has been around directing films for awhile now, it’s clear after this film that it’s certainly not his forte. SynopsisWhen a police officer’s life collides with a powerful assassin the result is lethal in Deadly Impact, debuting on unrated DVD April 20 from MGM Home Entertainment. Directed by special effects guru Robert Kurtzman, best known for his work in City Slickers and Cabin Fever, the film stars Sean Patrick Flanery (The Boondock Saints franchise) and Joe Pantoliano (The Sopranos, The Matrix franchise). In an explosive game of cat and mouse, Deadly Impact follows hard-nosed cop Thomas Armstrong (Flanery) whose life was shattered when he became the helpless target of a mastermind murderer. Returning home after a much-needed break, Armstrong joins the FBI to seek revenge and help track down the same killer that threatened his existence, however this time the assassin is back to terrorize not just a single person, but the entire city. In an exhilarating race against time, Armstrong must stay one step ahead to capture the madman and save innocent lives before time runs out. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1332 In the land of Spike TV, there is a vast array of shows that range from original content to…well, CSI repeats because that seems to be all the network airs during the daytime. The networks scope is generally limited to a single gender with its focus on UFC or the occasional airing of a Star Trek series or Star Wars movie. So while the scope of the network is limited in some cases it is also very focused…which is probably why the network has found great success in the Deadliest Warrior series. The series encapsulates everything we (men) love about war and the soldiers who participate in it: the violence. Yes that’s generalizing, but when you watch Deadliest Warrior it’s pretty clear what’s going on with the destruction of so many pig carcasses and ballistic gel dummies. SynopsisFinally, Spike’s newest hit show, Deadliest Warrior, has arrived on DVD! Watch as the most feared warriors civilization has ever known are pitted against each other in battle. Using 21st century science and the latest in CGI technology, each episode enlists warrior-specific world-class fighters and experts to analyze every facet of their unique skills of destruction and to answer the all-important question: who is the deadliest warrior? http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1331 While teenagers rant and rave about how awesome Twilight is, adults can sink their teeth (forgive me, I’ll probably do that a lot) into the HBO True Blood series. While the two series really are not all that far apart when you take into consideration the fact they’re just love stories wrapped inside a semi-horror glaze, True Blood has the added benefit of a (supposedly) more mature audience and the accoutrements of a premium cable network. This means, of course, a generous heaping of nudity and graphic violence, but also the ability to play around with much more devious storylines that transcend the usual vampire staples…although there is plenty of that going around this season as well. SynopsisWhen we last checked in with Sookie Stackhouse, the mystery surrounding a Bon Temps serial killer had finally been solved, to the town’s infinite relief. Sookie is thrilled that her vampire soul mate, Bill Compton, has escaped with his life (or is it death?) after coming to her daylight defense. On other fronts, Sookie’s pal Tara Thornton sets down new roots with an affluent benefactor, Maryann Forrester; Sam Merlotte resolves to get in shape-shift shape after a forest foray; roguish brother Jason finds new purpose with an anti-vampire sect; and detective Andy Bellefleur licks his wounds after being proven wrong about Jason’s guilt. But just as things are settling down, some deadly new twists threaten to ratchet up the saga of Sookie Stackhouse to bloody new heights! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1330 Few shows have received such universal praise as Mad Men. After a powerful first season, the show returned with another round of thirteen episodes for its second season that resulted in another slew of awards. With three Golden Globe’s and nine Emmy’s, Mad Men is already on the fast track to being one of the most memorable and critically acclaimed series in television history. And to think it all started on AMC – a network known previously only for the classic movies it aired. With consistently strong writing and absolutely fantastic acting by all involved, Mad Men will continue to be a show that remains on the viewer’s minds for some time…if they would just watch the show, at least. While it has undoubtedly increased in numbers with each consecutive season on air, the show still doesn’t have anywhere near the audience that it should for as much praise and awards that it receives (sounds like another show that Jon Hamm frequents on occasion [30 Rock]). Synopsis“Mad Men,” one of “TV’s best-ever dramas” (Boston Globe), is back on DVD and Blu-ray Disc with its third and most captivating season! From Matthew Weiner, the Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning executive producer and writer of “The Sopranos,” “Mad Men” is the ground-breaking series about the glamorous and ego-driven “Golden Age” of advertising. Returning for its third season, the show bursts with one scandalous surprise after another. This award winning ensemble continues to captivate us as they contend with a world on the brink. Welcome to “Mad Men” - a shocking portrait of a time that was anything but innocent. Nothing is as sexy. Nothing is as provocative. Nothing is as it seems. Winner of three Golden Globes and nine Emmys, including two for Outstanding Drama Series, the acclaim for “Mad Men” has not diminished after three seasons. The San Francisco Chronicle praised “beyond being the finest series on television, 'Mad Men' is both ambitious and exquisite, two of the ultimate rarities in the business,” The Boston Globe proclaimed it “absolutely gorgeous,” The San Jose Mercury News hailed, “TV at its finest,” and the Wall Street Journal exclaimed "The final episode was nothing short of brilliant." http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1329 When it comes to war movies, a few key films stick out in your head. They span various generations and undoubtedly we’ve seen a resurgence of them due to not only the success of them of late but also because the market for them seems to be greater than it ever has been before. While some tackle current wars, others delve back into the Vietnam or Korean War territory; but it’s the World War II films that seem to not only have the widest audience but also is home to some of the absolute greatest war films ever made. Undoubtedly there have been some absolute stinkers in the group over the years…and it’s because of this film, Saving Private Ryan, that we saw such a resurgence since its theatrical debut in 1998. SynopsisSteven Spielberg directed this powerful, realistic re-creation of WWII's D-day invasion and the immediate aftermath. The story opens with a prologue in which a veteran brings his family to the American cemetery at Normandy, and a flashback then joins Capt. John Miller (Tom Hanks) and GIs in a landing craft making the June 6, 1944, approach to Omaha Beach to face devastating German artillery fire. This mass slaughter of American soldiers is depicted in a compelling, unforgettable 24-minute sequence. Miller's men slowly move forward to finally take a concrete pillbox. On the beach littered with bodies is one with the name "Ryan" stenciled on his backpack. Army Chief of Staff Gen. George C. Marshall (Harve Presnell), learning that three Ryan brothers from the same family have all been killed in a single week, requests that the surviving brother, Pvt. James Ryan (Matt Damon), be located and brought back to the United States. Capt. Miller gets the assignment, and he chooses a translator, Cpl. Upham (Jeremy Davis), skilled in language but not in combat, to join his squad of right-hand man Sgt. Horvath (Tom Sizemore), plus privates Mellish (Adam Goldberg), Medic Wade (Giovanni Ribisi), cynical Reiben (Edward Burns) from Brooklyn, Italian-American Caparzo (Vin Diesel), and religious Southerner Jackson (Barry Pepper), an ace sharpshooter who calls on the Lord while taking aim. Having previously experienced action in Italy and North Africa, the close-knit squad sets out through areas still thick with Nazis. After they lose one man in a skirmish at a bombed village, some in the group begin to question the logic of losing more lives to save a single soldier. The film's historical consultant is Stephen E. Ambrose, and the incident is based on a true occurrence in Ambrose's 1994 bestseller D-Day: June 6, 1944. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1328 Perhaps it was the overly vague cover art or the fact that Ron Howard directed it, but I thought Cocoon was something else entirely different from the onset. For some reason I thought it was about some creepy alien cocoon things and instead it ended up starring Wilford Brimley. Which is fine, Brimley’s fantastic, but that’s not exactly the scenario that pops into your head when aliens are involved. I was born after this film came out and up until now it was always something referenced quite frequently in other shows and movies I watched, but nothing I’d ever actually seen. Now, however, I can take in the rather moving and touching story that is Cocoon. SynopsisThis emotional story of hope given to a group of elderly friends who feel as if they’ve lived long past their prime has become a classic of contemporary cinema that continues to touch generations of film fans. When visitors from a distant galaxy return to Earth on a secret mission, their other-wordly powers afford a group of senior citizens – who had expected nothing more from life than bingo, shuffleboard, aches and pains – the chance to recapture their youth. With Don Ameche (Trading Places) in his Academy Award-winning role*** and an all-star cast, Cocoon is a magical story of love, friendship and the human spirit. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1327 Watching the five episodes included here is somewhat bittersweet with the recent news that a second season of Wolverine and The X-Men will not be happening. On one hand, we’re heading toward the story’s climax, going full speed ahead. More and more details are coming to light in some of the best episodes yet for Wolverine and The X-Men. But, as great as these are, it’s a shame this is all we will get. This is one show that had plenty of mileage left in it and begs for more stories to be told. Thankfully, Lionsgate Home Entertainment is committed to getting all 26 episodes out and, with this release, we are one step closer to that reality. Synopsis:The world’s end arrives in eight days. Will Wolverine and the X-Men discover the deadly secret to stop it? Uncover the truth in Wolverine and The X-Men: Revelation with five gripping episodes. As the X-Men face a threat lurking in their midst, Angel goes against his own father to save fellow mutants. But when his wings are taken from him, will he throw away everything for revenge? Next, dangerous secrets await Scott in the depths of his own mind when he attempts to rid himself of his memories of Jean Grey. Meanwhile in the future, Xavier struggles at all costs to get information back to Wolverine, even at the risk of Rover and Marrow’s loyalty. He must act quickly, before Gambit succeeds in his treacherous game of thievery. Because if he doesn’t, a power more deadly than anything the X-Men have ever faced will put the world at risk: a fiery entity known as…The Phoenix. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1326 And, with this volume, the final episodes of X-Men: The Animated Series are now collected on to DVD. It’s hard to believe it took just over a year to collect the entire series across five separate two-disc releases. Then again, given how they managed to be huge movers, with each release selling at least 100,000 copies, sometimes in the first week alone, it’s no surprise Disney wants to get these titles out there while the demand remains. Coming out of the ground-breaking "Fox Kids" era of the 1990s, X-Men: The Animated Series was very faithful to the comics from whence these characters came, sticking close to storylines and character designs of the times. And while the show may have had some terrible animation at times, there was something so addictive, so watchable about it. It's easy to see why X-Men: The Animated Series is considered one of the best comic book-based cartoons ever.Synopsis: The original tales of Marvel comic books come to life in Volume 5 of the X-Men: The Animated Series collection. Relive the action of the popular animated series in this collectible compilation of the X-Men adventures. The X-Men must turn to their arch-nemesis, Magneto, in an effort to save the life of Professor Xavier! Watch the action unfold in the final episode, “Graduation Day,” and don’t miss a moment of X-Men excitement in this 2-disc set, complete with 14 riveting episodes. Complete your X-Men collection with this must-own final installment of this great animated series. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1325 I remember watching Iron Man (The Animated Series) weekday mornings before school when I was much younger. I used to watch it on a Fox affiliate, I can’t remember which affiliate exactly, and the channel would alternate between episodes of the 1990s Fantastic Four animated series and Beast Wars. With one or two episodes airing a week, while alternating with the other shows, it took awhile to see the whole series, but I found the wait worth it. Out of the three shows that rotated together, this was the one I was most excited to see. I truly enjoyed every minute of this cartoon. Looking back on this series now, it’s amazing how much things have changed.Synopsis:From Stan Lee comes Marvel’s complete 1994 animated television series, Iron Man: The Animated Series. Experience every thrilling moment – from the very first episode, to the final climactic battle – in this 3-disc collector’s edition. Witness the action-packed adventure from the very beginning as billionaire inventor Tony Stark dons his invincible suit of iron to battle the villainous Mandarin and the power of his ten deadly rings. With fellow super heroes Nick Fury, War Machine, Scarlet Witch, Spider Woman and Hawkeye at his side, Iron Man faces off against a band of evil foes, including Whiplash…and confronts his own demons, as well. Go behind the armor and get to know the man under the powered suit. This complete Iron Man collection is a must-have for fans of all ages! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1324 There’s no mistaking what this show is about right from the get-go. The series opens with the Mayor of Super Hero City attempting to cut the ribbon on a new impenetrable door designed to keep the baddies of VillainVille safely locked away. Naturally, the wall doesn’t quite work as it should and, within seconds, the heroes of Super Hero City find themselves under attack. Led by Iron Man, he and the Super Hero Squad mount a defense to keep the citizens of Super Hero City safe. Definitely aimed at a very young audience, and written with tongue planted firmly in cheek, The Super Hero Squad Show has a charm about it that diehard Marvel fans should really dig, regardless of age.Synopsis:When the greatest (and coolest) heroes on the planet unite to face the world’s greatest villains, you get the biggest, most family-friendly Super Hero team-up in TV history. It’s no small job protecting Super Hero City from the wild, weird (& even wacky) villainy of VillainVille’s infamous baddies…but the Super Hero Squad is always up for the job. These brave heroes totally deliver the action – but with plenty of humor on the side. Join in on the fun with these two new great Vivendi Entertainment Canada DVD releases featuring the best Marvel has to offer - The Super Hero Squad Show – Volume One: Hero Up, Squaddies! and The Super Hero Squad Show – Volume Two: Titanic Team-Ups! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1323 A teenaged Tony Stark? Well, it’s a risk, I’ll give it that. Iron Man: Armored Adventures had a lot going against it when it was announced. A CGI cartoon with a drastically reworked Tony Stark was, as you could expect, not received warmly among fans. I can see why. It’s simply not the Tony Stark that fans grew up with. Plus, no one seems to be a fan of CGI-animated cartoons. However, I’m one of those fans who’s more open-minded to different interpretations of a character, with each as valid as the next as far as I’m concerned, and Iron Man: Armored Adventures is no different. And now we have the entire first season available on DVD to dissect and validate. Synopsis:Join the adventures of teenage prodigy Tony Stark, and his alter ego Iron Man, as he uses his technological inventions to battle villains and save the world! When threats like Stane, Whiplash, The Mandarin, Living Laser and Madame Masque bring their own brand of chaos, it's up to Iron Man to answer the call! Suit up and get back in action with Tony and his best friends, Rhodey and Pepper, as they risk it all to defeat evil and save the day using their futuristic gadgets and a little teamwork. Enjoy 26 action-packed episodes filled with challenges, secrets and pulse-pounding showdowns. Prepare to blast off with Iron Man: Armored Adventures – The Complete Season One! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1322 Written and directed by Victor Varnado and set to the music of cutting-edge hip-hop artist Farbeon, THE AWKWARD COMEDY SHOW showcases the talents of four groundbreaking African-American comedians. Riffing on topics ranging from Shakespeare to science fiction, THE AWKWARD COMEDY SHOW injects black comedy with a fresh—and nerdy—new style.SynopsisComic Marina Franklin interviews the Awkward Kings, whose ranks include alternative stand-up artists Victor Varnado, Hannibal Buress, Eric André and Baron Vaughn. The film captures their antics on and off the stage through group hang-out sessions, informal interviews and personal vignettes animated by underground comic book artists. While the Kings each have their own wacky style, they all have two things in common: they’re all a little weird, and they all challenge our preconceptions of what black comedy is and can be. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1321 Selling more than 50 million records, packing arenas worldwide, and earning multiple Grammys, Michael Bolton has cemented his legacy. His expert ability to craft the perfect love song, as evidenced by Barbra Streisand and Laura Branigan, and his collaborative work with artists as diverse as Luciano Pavarotti, Lady Gaga, Bob Dylan, KISS, and Kanye West, shows Bolton has mastered the art of transcending genres. He will tour internationally throughout 2010. This concert will also air on PBS in March.SynopsisRecorded at the famed venue in October 2009, this 110-minute DVD offers an array of tunes, spanning Michael Bolton’s 25-year career. Bolton’s voice, saturated with sensuality and soul, soars on his hits, such as Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay,” “How Am I Supposed To Live Without You,” “How Can We Be Lovers,” “Soul Provider,” Ray Charles’ “Georgia On My Mind,” and Percy Sledge’s “When A Man Loves A Woman.” Dipping further into America’s treasures, songs “Fly Me To The Moon,” “Summertime,” “Crazy Love,” and “That’s Life” are embellished by his band and all-female brass section. “Murder My Heart,” a song he co-wrote with Lady Gaga, from his upcoming CD One World One Love (released domestically May 4), is also highlighted in this set. Additionally, a performance of “Nessun Dorma,” an interview with Michael, and the “Countdown” documentary, a 7-minute feature showing the day at the venue leading up to the show are part of the bonus features. The Blu-ray also boasts the bonus track “New York New York.” http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1320 Those around for the big Wyatt Earp movie showdown in 1993 and 1994 no doubt remember the two films well (assuming you were into westerns, anyway): after a falling out between Kevin Costner and Kevin Jarre, Costner took his version of the script and made Wyatt Earp with a much larger budget while Jarre took his script and turned it into what we have here (which was created with a smaller budget). Any guesses as to which one grossed more? While decidedly less accurate historically and a bit more twisted to pander to audiences, Tombstone not only hit screens before Costner’s version but it also grossed more than enough to cover its budget, something Costner’s film failed to do. Tombstone has largely drifted away into obscurity lately, but with the death of director of the film, George Pan Cosmatos, it has come to light that actor Kurt Russell had a great more to do with the films directing process than originally though. While we wait for more of that story to come to light (and perhaps a new cut of the film?), Disney has graced us with the original theatrical cut on Blu-ray for the first and (I can’t believe I’m saying this) hopefully not last time. SynopsisA sizzling, star-studded cast brings to life the legendary battle to deliver justice to Tombstone, available for the first time on Blu-ray™ High Definition! Kurt Russell turns in a gripping performance as U.S. Marshall Wyatt Earp and Val Kilmer ignites the screen as the outrageous Doc Holliday. Together, they team up to bring law to the lawless in a notorious showdown with the ruthless outlaws at the O.K. Corral! The all-star ensemble also includes Sam Elliott, Bill Paxton, Dana Delany, Jason Priestley, Michael Biehn, and long-time Hollywood favorite Charlton Heston. Get ready for an explosive, action packed adventure the Wild West would never forget! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1319 Garnering top honors at both the 2010 Academy Awards® and Golden Globe® Awards for Best Actor and Best Original Song (“The Weary Kind”), Crazy Heart is the powerful story of a country music star’s rocky road to redemption, arriving on Blu-ray Disc and DVD April 20 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Bridges stars as Bad Blake, a boozy, broken-down singer who reaches for salvation with the help of Jean, a journalist who discovers the real man behind the music. But will Bad’s hard-livin’ ways and crazy heart cost him his last chance at a comeback?SynopsisFueled by country rock, Crazy Heart features award winning music from composer and producer T-Bone Burnett (Walk The Line), the late Texas songwriter Stephen Bruton, and southern singer/songwriter Ryan Bingham. Crazy Heart also features a stellar supporting cast including an Academy Award® nominated performance from Maggie Gyllenhaal (Dark Knight) and Academy Award® winner* Robert Duvall, who also served as a production partner on the film. A raw and realistic story adapted from the highly praised novel by Thomas Cobb, the film is a portrait of a man who has lived hard, fast and recklessly, but still goes after the salvation of love when his heart gets what appears to be one last chance to redeem itself. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1318 When I sit down to write reviews, I usually take into account not only the audience size it likely had but also its distribution channels. So I’m kind of bewildered at the idea of reviewing Avatar as it’s the top grossing movie of all time--and not just by a small margin. No, the previous holder was Titanic at $1.8 billion and Avatar currently resides at a pleasant $2.7 billion. Granted, that number is extremely skewed—not only for inflation adjustment but also because the vast majority of Avatar’s sales were in 3-D…in which the tickets averaged $3-5 more per ticket (possibly more, I’m just ball parking off of what I had to pay). Still, the fact remains that this was a very, very big film and an enormous success for both Fox and Cameron (who is probably used to success by now, but I digress). So it’s of no surprise that the first release we get of this film, releasing on April 22nd (“Earth Day”…though the linking between the film and that day doesn’t really make complete sense to me), is completely and utterly barebones. SynopsisOscar and Golden Globe winning epic is the highest grossing film of all time, taking in over $2.6 billion in worldwide box office. Director James Cameron takes audiences to a spectacular world beyond imagination, where a reluctant hero embarks on a journey of redemption and discovery as he leads a heroic battle to save a civilization. AVATAR delivers a fully immersive cinematic experience of a new kind, where the revolutionary technology invented to make the film disappears into the emotion of the characters and the epic nature of the story. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1317 Of all of the Michael Bay films from the 90s, it was Armageddon that was perhaps the most well-known and most-copied. The two and a half hour epic about the possible end of the world further vaulted Ben Affleck’s movie career and cemented Bruce Willis, once again, as a tough bad-ass who could go up against anything. While detested by critics, the film grossed over half a billion dollars worldwide during its theatrical run and was one of the most talked about films of 1998. Over the years the film has seen various DVD incarnations, including an extras-laden Criterion Collection release, but this marks its first foray onto the Blu-ray format. SynopsisFrom the blockbuster-making team who produced and directed Pearl Harbor and The Rock (Jerry Bruckheimer and Michael Bay) comes Armageddon, available for the first time on Blu-ray™ High- Definition! Starring the explosive talents of Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler, Owen Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, and Will Patton, Armageddon is a meteor storm of action adventure moviemaking that has you on the edge of your seat forgetting to breathe! When NASA’s executive director, Dan Truman (Thornton), realizes the Earth has 18 days before it’s obliterated by a meteor the size of Texas, he has only one option – land a ragtag team of roughneck oil drillers on the asteroid and drop a nuclear warhead into its core. Spectacular special effects, laugh-out-loud humor, great characters, riveting storytelling, and heartfelt emotion make Armageddon an exhilarating thrill ride you’ll want to experience like there’s no tomorrow! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1316 All hail the Queen of Characterization! Tracey Ullman is back in business, and Eagle Rock is delivering the goods when State of the Union: Season 2 is released as a 2DVD set on May 4 [pre-book order date March 30, MSRP $19.93]. This 2DVD completes Eagle’s growing Tracey Ullman collection, which includes State of the Union: Season 1 (released November 2008) and Tracey Takes On…The Complete Final Two Seasons (released July 2009).SynopsisReleased just after the airing of Season 3 on Showtime, State of the Union: Season 2 is 201 minutes of feisty, vivacious fun. Produced by award-winning producers Allan McKeown Presents, these seven episodes are a return to form for the Emmy-Award winning comedienne. It’s American culture, and American life, through the scope of Ullman’s twisted vision – incredibly honest with hilarious truths. Utilizing her signature sense of satire, she seamlessly traverses between characters, from the everyday “Joe Six Pack” to a wealth of familiar faces, such as Dan Rather, Celine Dion, Heather Mills, Dina Lohan, Donna Karan, former First Lady Laura Bush, and Harry Potter creator JK Rowling. Favorite characters from the first season, such as news reporter Linda Alvarez and singing pharmacist Padma Perkesh, also make comeback, along with new original personas. Additionally, fans can enjoy 40 minutes worth of bonus footage. Outtakes, deleted scenes, sing-a-longs, and behind-the-scenes footage (including the “How It Was Done feature) are sure to deliver an extra kick of delight. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1315 Just when you thought it was gone for good, Paramount brought them back! After a final season on Comedy Central back in 2007, everyone who loved the raunchier-than-South Park (it’s true, look it up) show were lamenting that nothing like it would ever grace our TV screens again. Well guess what—you’re wrong. Something like it has come again and it’s called…Drawn Together. Yup, the original characters, the original voice actors, and the original crew behind the series returns for one more go-around in The Drawn Together Movie: The Movie!. SynopsisThe incorrigible cast of the most offensive animated reality show ever to air is back, and they’re starring in their very own feature-length movie! When the mystery-solving musician Foxxy Love notices she and her fellow housemates can curse without being bleeped – something they’ve never been able to do before – she realizes their show has been canceled. Determined to get back on the air, the gang travels to Make-A-Point Land in order to get a point (and get back on the air). With more depravity than could have ever been shown on TV, this is the definitive Drawn Together experience.