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=1617 After over three years of reviewing the latest and greatest DVDs, Blu-ray’s, and the occasional movie soundtrack or video game, The World’s Finest DVD Report is closing its doors. While it wasn’t a decision that came lightly, we felt it necessary to close this chapter of our internet lives to that we could focus on (hopefully) bigger and better things. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1615 A Green Hornet film was in development hell for years, possibly decades (I didn’t follow it that far back), before a studio finally got serious about making a film. Sony finally got the ball rolling when a serviceable script was introduced and…it was co-written by and starring Seth Rogen. Mind you the immediate reaction of all (myself included in that “all”) was “how is he going to play a superhero?” Rogen slimmed down significantly for the role and while he wasn’t showing off any sculpted abs, he didn’t look like a slobby slouch that you could write off as someone who couldn’t get a few good punches in. While the film failed to impress just about everyone, it’s overall ticket sales were bolstered by the overseas intake which pushed the $120 million dollar film to over $220 in tickets—not bad for a film that ranks rotten on Rotten Tomatoes.SynopsisBritt Reid (Seth Rogen) is a slacker by day, party animal by night... until he finds a serious career that’s seriously cool: crime-fighting action hero. As the Green Hornet, he teams up with gadget wiz and martial arts master Kato (Jay Chou) to take down LA's underworld. Even Britt’s assistant Lenore (Cameron Diaz) doesn't suspect this mismatched pair is the masked duo busting the city's toughest thugs led by Chudnofsky (Academy Award® winner Christoph Waltz, 2010, Supporting Actor, Inglourious Basterds). With style, swagger and an arsenal of awesome gear, the Green Hornet and Kato are doing justice their way, making every mission a mix of over-the-top action and outrageous comedy. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1614 It's amazing how relevant South Park can stay fourteen years into its run. Where other shows falter and sputter to the end, barely crossing the finish line intact, South Park seems to always adapt to the situation, managing to become stronger, sharper, and...just funnier with every season. This latest season is definitely no exception to the rule, either. Nothing is out of reach for this gutsy show, and no prisoners are left behind as they viciously take apart, piece by piece, different facets of our day-to-day lives. However, while South Park strives itself on pushing boundaries, it seems like they may have hit a wall with a particular two-part adventure. More after the synopsis...Synopsis:All fourteen episodes from South Park's notorious 14th Season are packed into this exclusive three-disc set. Join Stan, Kyle, Cartman and Kenny as they dive into social networking, defend against annoying Jersey “muff cabbage” and finally reveal the secret identity of Mysterion in an epic three-part saga. Top that with some never-before-seen deleted scenes and a little crème fraiche, and you’ve got a collection that will leave you drooling. Shablagoo!! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1613 The conversion of book to cinema has never ceased to be a difficult feat for filmmakers ranging from problems to whittling down the story into something that appeases the average audience member’s attention span, to replicating the imagery that the author invokes on the reader. Some of the most difficult ones are the books that have an entire series rather than serving as a standalone story, and a lot that have been converted into movies find themselves unfortunately unable to continue due to lack of interest. The Chronicles of Narnia, a series rich with over a half dozen books, has been one of the few franchises that has thrived in its movie adaptations; this being the third in the series.SynopsisPrecocious siblings Lucy (Georgie Henley, The Chronicles of Narnia series) and Edmund Pevensie (Skandar Heynes, The Chronicles of Narnia series), along with their cousin Eustace (Will Poulter, Son of Rambow), are swallowed into a painting and transported back to Narnia. They join King Caspian (Ben Barnes, Dorian Gray) and a noble mouse named Reepicheep in a quest to rescue noble lords who had been lost fighting evil on another island. Aboard the magnificent ship The Dawn Treader, the courageous voyagers travel to mysterious islands, confront mystical creatures, and reunite with the Great Lion Aslan on a mission that tests their characters to determine the fate of Narnia itself! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1612 Catch Ray Liotta and Shawn Hatosy in the action packed thriller, STREET KINGS 2: MOTOR CITY. Your heart will be racing as this compelling story about the ultimate struggle for justice comes to Blu-ray and DVD April 19 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.SynopsisRay Liotta (Goodfellas) delivers an intense, electrifying performance in this explosive follow-up to the gritty urban crime thriller Street Kings. Liotta plays Detroit detective Marty Kingston, the leader of an undercover narcotics team, whose members are being systematically murdered one by one. To solve the brutal killings, Kingston joins forces with a cocky, young homicide detective (Hatosy). But neither of them is prepared for the shocking corruption their investigation will uncover — stunning secrets that will set both men on a violent collision course with betrayal and vengeance. Shot on location in Detroit, renowned director Chris Fisher brings the story to life in a way that is sure to have audiences raving. STREET KINGS 2: MOTOR CITY also stars Clifton Powell (“Army Wives,” Preacher’s Kid, Street Kings), and Zuliekha Robinson (“Lost,” The Namesake). STREET KINGS 2: MOTOR CITY will be available as a 1-disc DVD, 2-disc Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD) or Street Kings Blu-ray 2 pack (Street Kings BD + Street Kings 2 BD). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1611 Helen Whitney’s FORGIVENESS explores the act of forgiveness through a wide range of stories, from adultery and personal betrayal to the post-genocidal reconciliation of nations. In focusing on specific instances of affliction—one family torn apart by abandonment, the post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation hearings in South Africa or the memories of ’60s radicals coping with their violent acts of protest—FORGIVENESS studies the psychological impetus and impacts of this crucial sentiment, illuminating its power, its limitations and, in some cases, its dangers. Giving voice to the stories of nations and individuals who have suffered and struggled to forgive, FORGIVENESS provides a moving and much-needed chronicle of reconciliation.SynopsisThe deepest wounds can destroy countries, ravage families and damage generations to come. As difficult and painful as it can be, forgiveness is often the only thing that can heal these wounds and set things right. Helen Whitney’s FORGIVENESS explores the act of forgiveness through a wide range of stories, from adultery and personal betrayal to the post-genocidal reconciliation of nations. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1610 Living in a present in which most political leaders’ messages go vastly ignored by a cynical public, it’s hard to imagine an era in which a leader’s effectiveness actually hinged on his speaking ability. The King’s Speech, directed by Tom Hooper, takes us back to an uncertain time with inner turmoil among England’s Royal family while political distress with some of history’s most despicable leaders brewed elsewhere. Certainly a unique take on the genre by focusing on a single character’s strive to overcome a specific flaw in a particular span of their life rather than serving as a chronology of their complete life, which most films that depict the Royal family tend to do. This is perhaps one of the reasons as to why this film found such a wide audience, given that whether or not you’re fascinated by England’s Royals, chances are you will find a reason a reason to watch this film.SynopsisWhen England’s throne is suddenly thrust upon him, amidst royal family scandal and impending world war, King George VI (Colin Firth, Oscar® winner, Best Actor) must overcome a lifelong, debilitating speech impediment to lead his nation. After his iron-willed, compassionate wife Elizabeth (Oscar® nominee Helena Bonham Carter) secretly enlists an eccentric speech therapist (Oscar® winner Geoffrey Rush), the two men forge an unlikely friendship that will ultimately empower the monarch to find his voice, inspire his people and rally the world. Based on an inspiring true story, The King’s Speech has been universally hailed as “a masterpiece. The majestic cast is overwhelming” (The New York Observer). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1609 The live-action directorial debut of Rob Letterman, previously having dabbled in directing the less than favored CG-animated “Shark Tale” and “Monsters vs. Aliens,” brings the cinematic audiences yet another rendition of the Jonathon Swift classic, Gulliver’s Travels. It’s a story, or rather the most common portion, that’s been manifested on the big and small screens over the last century. Of course, this time around it’s been adapted to present day, starring Jack Black and more or less Jason Segal. The movie is wrought with some of the most blatant drops of pop culture references that are only a mere iota of creativity above painfully awful creations such as those of Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer. However, if your life philosophy is that lazy plagiarism is the way to succeed in life, then you should appreciate this movie’s ultimate message.SynopsisJack Black (Kung Fu Panda, School of Rock) brings his irreverent humor to this adventure-comedy based on the classic tale. To impress the pretty newspaper travel editor Darcy (Amanda Peet, Something's Gotta Give), an underachieving mailroom clerk named Gulliver (Black) takes a writing assignment traveling to Bermuda. When a shipwreck lands him on the fantastical island of Lilliput, he transforms into a giant — in size and ego! Gulliver’s tall tales and heroic deeds win the hearts of the tiny Lilliputians, but when he loses it all and puts his newfound friends in peril, Gulliver must find a way to undo the damage. Through it all, Gulliver may just learn that it’s how big you are on the inside that counts. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1608 Catch Kevin Spacey in his Golden Globe-nominated performance as a megalomaniacal lobbyist in CASINO JACK, which arrives on Blu-ray and DVD April 5th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. The critically acclaimed film based on a true story tells the tale of one of DC’s most lucrative lobbyists, who used his power and influence to create an extravagant lifestyle that included private jets, exotic cars, and even an offshore gambling business.SynopsisTwo-time Academy Award Winner Kevin Spacey delivers a “bravura performance” (The New Yorker) in this “uproarious, riveting and wickedly hilarious” (Elle) film inspired by a true story. Spacey stars as Jack Abramoff, the real-life Washington power player who resorted to jaw-dropping levels of fraud and corruption. High-rolling excess and outrageous escapades are all in a day’s work for Abramoff, as he goes to outrageous lengths to promote the Indian gambling industry, earning him the nickname “Casino Jack.” But when Jack and his womanizing protege Michael Scanlon (Barry Pepper) enlist a dimwitted business partner (Jon Lovitz) for an illegal scheme, they find themselves ensnared in a web of greed and murder that explodes into a worldwide scandal. CASINO JACK is a cautionary tale that showcases the best and worst of Capitol Hill intrigue, and also stars Barry Pepper (True Grit) Kelly Preston (Old Dogs, Death Sentence) and Jon Lovitz (Saturday Night Live, The Producers). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1607 When acclaimed documentary filmmaker D.A. Pennebaker (Monterey Pop, The War Room) filmed Bob Dylan during a three-week concert tour of England in the Spring of 1965, he had no idea he was about to create one of the most intimate glimpses of the rock legend ever put on film. Wanting to make more than just a concert film, Pennebaker decided to seek out both the public and private Bob Dylan. With unobtrusive equipment and rare access to the elusive performer, he achieved a fly-on-the-wall glimpse of one of the most influential musicians of all time—and redefined filmmaking along the way.SynopsisReleased on Blu-ray for the first time, this definitive set includes the classic film in high-definition, the 65 Revisited bonus disc—which includes an hour-long behind-the-scenes look at Dylan—and a new, never-before-seen interview of director D.A. Pennebaker by renowned rock critic Greil Marcus and the director. More than just a concert film, DONT LOOK BACK is a window into the spirit of the ’60s, and one of the poet-musicians whose words and songs defined it. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1606 When you do a cartoon series based on some of the biggest characters in the Marvel Universe, you want to do it right. The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, to put it very simply, gets it right. Remember that terrible The Avengers: United They Stand cartoon, where the only good thing was the fact that it ended after thirteen episodes (though there was the awesome spin-off comic handled by Ty Templeton, but that's for another time)? Well, this latest adventure series from Marvel Animation makes up for it in spades. Full of great writing, solid animation and exciting action, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes puts Marvel's big guns out there and does them justice. Suffice it to say, this is the cartoon that countless Marvel fans have been waiting for!Synopsis:When the planet is threatened by super-villains, time traveling conquerors, mythical monsters or mad robots bent on the total destruction of humanity, when the forces of evil are so overwhelming that no single hero has the power to save the world, when there is no hope left… The Avengers assemble! Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Ant-Man, Wasp and The Incredible Hulk! Earth’s Mightiest Heroes must band together to protect the world from a break-out of Super-Villains the likes of which no one has never seen. Only the Avengers can stand against this threat, and the fate of the world rests on their shoulders. Discover their adventures and experience the excitement of The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1605 It's safe to say that this is the cartoon Marvel fans have been waiting for. The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes brings it all out there, so much of what makes the Marvel Universe such a unique place, and pretty much lays it all out on the table. And, for those having flashbacks of the old The Avengers: United They Stand Fox Kids cartoon, fear not, they hit it out of the park. Yeah, there are just a handful of teensy-tiny issues but, overall, this is a very strong showing for some of Marvel's best heroes, and simply a great new series from Marvel Animation.Synopsis:When the planet is threatened by super-villains, time traveling conquerors, mythical monsters or mad robots bent on the total destruction of humanity, when the forces of evil are so overwhelming that no single hero has the power to save the world, when there is no hope left… The Avengers assemble! Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Ant-Man, Wasp and The Incredible Hulk! Earth’s Mightiest Heroes must band together to protect the world from a break-out of Super-Villains the likes of which no one has never seen. Only the Avengers can stand against this threat, and the fate of the world rests on their shoulders. Discover their adventures on these new DVD home video releases - The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes - Volume One: Heroes Assemble! and The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes - Volume Two: Captain America Reborn! from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1604 The poignant yet humor filled story about a single mother of a teenager severely impacted by autism, forced to reckon with her daughter's future. As her child becomes an adult, what used to work, no longer does. What will sustain her daughter, and herself? A parent-child love story, when love means letting go.SynopsisA powerful film directed by Emmy Award® winner Janet Grillo (Autism: The Musical), FLY AWAY narrates the story of Jeanne (Beth Broderick, Bonfire of the Vanities, Sabrina the Teenage Witch) and her autistic teenage daughter, Mandy (Ashley Rickards, One Tree Hill). Jeanne has cared for Mandy since the day she was born, growing closer every day to a child who is charmingly offbeat one moment and nearly impossible to manage the next. In the dog park, Jeanne encounters Tom (Greg Germann, Ally McBeal, Friends with Money), an easygoing and accepting neighbor who sparks a romantic interest, but she finds juggling Mandy’s care and her own career leaves little room for a new man. As the pressures of work and her child’s needs increase, she must decide whether or not to enroll Mandy in a therapeutic residential facility. Over the course of a few weeks, Jeanne is confronted with the most difficult decision a parent can make: to let go, allowing her child to grow, but also grow apart; or to hold on tight and fall together. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1603 Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the April 12 CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, and 2LP vinyl release of Rory Gallagher’s Irish Tour ’74, a stunning document of extraordinary blues-rock power from one of the world’s greatest guitarists of all-time. Captured at a time when Gallagher was voted the #1 guitar player by Melody Maker Magazine, Irish Tour is a brilliant showcase of his musical prowess. Award-winning filmmaker Tony Palmer followed Gallagher around Ireland as audiences went wild night after night. The film—which enjoyed a successful run in theaters—has been beautifully restored and remastered from the original footage, and is making its Blu-Ray debut.SynopsisThe two-hour DVD/Blu-Ray features nine jams—“Walk On Hot Coals,” “Tattoo’d Lady,” “Who’s That Coming,” “A Million Miles Away,” “Going To My Home Town,” “Cradle Rock,” “As The Crow Flies,” “Hands Off” and “Bullfrog Blues”—as well as bonus home movie footage from Gallagher’s Japanese tour of the same year. Also on the DVD/Blu-ray is the 1972 RTE (Irish television network) half-hour documentary “Rory Gallagher: Music Makers.” Highlights on this rare gem include “Toredown,” “Laundromat,” “Pistol Slapper Blues,” and “Don’t Know Where I’m Going.” Regarded as one of the greatest live albums of all time, the Irish Tour CD/vinyl captures Rory’s exceptional playing, sans overdubs and studio fixes. The sound is raw, real Rory. The CD’s 10 tracks are “Cradle Rock,” “I Wonder Who,” “Tattoo’d Lady,” “Too Much Alcohol,” “As The Crow Flies,” “A Million Miles Away,” “Walk On Hot Coals,” “Who’s That Comin’,” “Back On My Stompin’ Ground” and “Maritime.” The vinyl is a double-album. Side A has “Cradle Rock,” “I Wonder Who” and “Tattoo’d Lady.” Side B has “Too Much Alcohol,” “As The Crow Flies” and “A Million Miles Away.” Side C has “”Walk On Hot Coals” and “Who’s That Comin’.” Side D has “Back On My Stompin’ Ground” and “Maritime.” http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1601 Doesn’t matter how impossible the odds are – the chances of actually hitting a Powerball jackpot are just 1 in almost 200 million – almost everyone dreams of winning the lottery. Who hasn’t found themselves daydreaming of an answer to the question, “What would I do with all that money?”SynopsisDirected by Jeffery Blitz (Spellbound), LUCKY offers a glimpse into the reality behind the fantasy of lottery winners. They come from an amazing range of backgrounds, but all of their lives are radically transformed by the same thing – an enormous lottery jackpot. With prize money reaching into the hundreds of millions, some lives are changed for the better, some for the worse. And together, their stories show us what happens when the fantasy turns real. Do we become what we dreamed we would or what, deep down, we really are? http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1600 Sometimes a name is so perfect, so dead-on, that there's really no other way to describe it, and The Incredibles is a case of just that. Even now, years after it first hit both the big screen and DVD, it remains just as incredible as I remember. The animation, the story, the brilliant casting and voice acting....even the character acting reminds me why this is one of the best films Pixar has to offer. Yeah, Pixar can seemingly do no wrong, with each of their films garnering a ridiculous amount of critical acclaim, but I have a bit of a soft-spot for this one above all others. I just seriously dig this movie. It's quite simply one of the best superhero movies ever made...despite it not being based on an existing set of characters.Synopsis:From the creative minds behind the Toy Story films and Ratatouille comes this hilarious, action-packed animated adventure about a seemingly ordinary family with an incredible secret. Experience The Incredibles like never before on Blu-ray High Definition! Known to the world as superheroes Mr. Incredible and Elastigirl, Bob Parr and his wife Helen were among the world's greatest crime fighters, saving lives and battling evil on a daily basis. Fifteen years later, they have been forced to adopt civilian identities and retreat to the suburbs to live "normal" lives with their three kids, Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack. Itching to get back into action, Bob gets his chance when a mysterious communication summons him to a remote island for a top secret assignment. He soon discovers that it will take a super family effort to rescue the world from total destruction. Exploding with fun and exciting bonus feature available only on Blu-ray, this spectacular release is edge-of-your-seat entertainment for everyone. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1599 Not only one of Martin Scorsese’s most iconic films but also one of Robert DeNiro’s, Taxi Driver stands the test of time with performances that remind us why it was such a groundbreaking film…all the way back in 1976. The film continues to inspire new directors, actors, writers, and anyone involved in the production of films with its startling storytelling and (then) unique way of tying up a film: with an overly ambiguous epilogue that left many wondering if what they had just witnessed was real or if our taxi driver had driven his mind to create a reality in which he’s hailed as a hero.Synopsis4 Academy Award(r) nominations including Best Picture! (1976) Special Collector's Edition is digitally remastered and includes a never-before-seen making-of documentary featuring interviews with the creators and stars of the film. Robert De Niro stars with Jodie Foster, Cybill Shepherd, Harvey Keitel, Peter Boyle, and Albert Brooks in the all-too-real story of a psychotic New York cabby who is driven to violence in an attempt to rescue a teenage prostitute. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1598 There's a reason why Black Swan was one of the most buzzed about movies last year, and this year heading into the Oscars. What director Darren Aronofsky has managed to weave together is an impression, nightmarish thriller where not even the viewers can believe everything they see. Driven by an absolutely show-stopping performance by Natalie Portman, Black Swan is one of those movies that will catch by surprise the first time, and than continue to impress with each subsequent viewing. And yes, you may not think of it, but this is one movie you will watch again. The depth it exudes, the tension, the "did I just see something?" moments, and the pitch-perfect cast makes this a movie that is just impossible to resist.Synopsis:Black Swan follows the story of Nina (Portman), a ballerina in a New York City ballet company whose life, like all those in her profession, is completely consumed with dance. She lives with her retired ballerina mother Erica (Barbara Hershey) who zealously supports her daughter's professional ambition. When artistic director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel) decides to replace prima ballerina Beth MacIntyre (Winona Ryder) for the opening production of their new season, Swan Lake, Nina is his first choice. But Nina has competition: a new dancer, Lily (Kunis), who impresses Leroy as well. Swan Lake requires a dancer who can play both the White Swan with innocence and grace, and the Black Swan, who represents guile and sensuality. Nina fits the White Swan role perfectly but Lily is the personification of the Black Swan. As the two young dancers expand their rivalry into a twisted friendship, Nina begins to get more in touch with her dark side with a recklessness that threatens to destroy her. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1597 Two heroes duking it out with one another, usually over a misunderstanding of some type, is pretty standard comic fare. Fans have long since wished to see some of the most heroic clashes brought to life and, in 2009, Marvel Animation did just that with Hulk Versus, pitting the Jade Giant against two of Marvel's biggest characters, Wolverine and Thor. These two short movies, which together compromised Hulk Versus, were well-received across the board. Each were their own beast, both presenting standalone stories of the Hulk tackling renowned Marvel characters. Now, with the live-action Thor around the corner, Lionsgate Home Entertainment is releasing one of them, Hulk Versus Thor, as its own single-disc DVD release. Synopsis:With the forces protecting Asgard at their weakest, Loki the trickster seizes the opportunity to destroy his cursed stepbrother, Thor, once and for all. In an epic battle that pits god against monster, the Mighty Thor is forced to clash with the only creature that has ever been able to match his strength - the Incredible Hulk! Prepare for a battle of epic proportions with Hulk Versus Thor! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1596 Every day in America 10,000 teenagers catch a sexually transmitted disease, 2,400 young girls get pregnant and 55 young people are infected with HIV.SynopsisLET’S TALK ABOUT SEX takes a revealing look at how American attitudes toward adolescent sexuality impact today’s teenagers. Director James Houston takes us on a journey to examine trends in American society as personified by a cast of diverse characters. At a high school for pregnant teens in Los Angeles, young girls are contemplating teen parenthood. In Washington, D.C., where HIV infection rates rival several African countries, community outreach workers are trying to save lives. The film also travels to the Netherlands, where Houston compares European attitudes with those in America, then concludes in Oregon, where the lessons learned in Western Europe are helping to create practical solutions. Real parents and youth, compelling statistics, animation and archival material all combine to paint an urgent picture of American youth in crisis, one that not enough people are talking about. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1595 How Do You Know had tremendous buzz when it first hit theatres last year, due to the pedigree of the cast and crew behind it. Directed by James L. Brooks and featuring a whopping cast that included Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson, Paul Rudd and Jack Nicholson, this was set to be on of Sony Picture's big holiday movies. No matter how good the cast and crew may seem, if the story doesn't work, especially for a romantic comedy such as this, then it just won't work. And, sadly, for the most part, this film just doesn't work. The film just doesn't seem to be able to make up its mind on what it wants to be - the typical fluffy romantic comedy we see time and time again, or a more serious approach to the whole romantic movie genre - and we end up with uneven story that seems to stumble along until its finally finds it footing....at the end of the movie.Synopsis:From legendary director/writer James L. Brooks comes a humorous and romantic look at the How Do You Know question. When everything she’s ever known is suddenly taken from her, Lisa (Reese Witherspoon) begins a fling with Matty (Owen Wilson), a major league baseball player and self-centered ladies man. Before their relationship takes off, Lisa meets up with George (Paul Rudd) a straight-arrow businessman facing his own serious issues, both with his father (Jack Nicholson) and the law. Just when everything seems to be falling apart it doesn't. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1594 When people think of Batman, thoughts of the Joker are close behind. This evil clown has been tormenting the Dark Knight since the beginning, and remains the most fascinating member of Batman's rogues gallery. However, his presence has been completely absent from the tales of the future Batman. News of the Joker's animated return has intrigued and concerned fans of the mythos for months. Would the confrontation between the Future Knight and the Harlequin of Hate live up to the past struggles with Batman's greatest nemesis? The answer is a resounding yes.Synopsis:The greatest villain of all comes out of the past to threaten Batman, Bruce Wayne and all of Gotham City in Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker, the first feature-length Batman Beyond movie. The sleeker, deadlier and seemingly immortal Clown Prince of Crime is back with his own unique brand of havoc and mayhem. While trying to uncover the Joker's secrets, the new Batman, Terry McGinnis, discovers the greatest mystery in the life of the original Caped Crusader: What happened the night he fought the Joker for the last time. When Bruce Wayne is almost killed in one of the Joker's latest attacks, Batman vows to avenge his mentor and put the Joker to rest forever. Get ready for heart-stomping action, awesome adventure and amazing revelations in Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1593 Fans of the original TRON eagerly awaited a sequel. For years, decades really, it never came. Disney finally saw fit to produce a new film, but since so much time had passed, would it even be possible to do something with Jeff Bridges given his current age? Thankfully they found a way and while only two of the films cast reunited for this one (Bridges and Bruce Boxleitner), it felt remarkably similar to the 1982 classic that tantalized the minds of so many people. Unfortunately the films hefty budget proved too formidable for domestic interest in the film as it went on to gross a mere million over its $170 budget; thankfully it dominated overseas, raking in another $225 million, which fans hope will be more than enough to convince Disney to continue the series with another film. Anyone who saw TRON: Legacy knows there were more than a few seeds planted in it to build a third film (or franchise) off of…SynopsisDisney presents a high-tech motion picture unlike anything you've ever seen in an astonishing 3D Combo Pack. Immerse yourself in the digital world of TRON, as celebrated actor Jeff Bridges stars in a revolutionary visual effects adventure beyond imagination. When Flynn, the world's greatest video game creator, sends out a secret signal from an amazing digital realm, his son discovers the clue and embarks on a personal journey to save his long-lost father. With the help of the fearless female warrior Quorra, father and son venture through an incredible cyber universe and wage the ultimate battle of good versus evil. Bring home an unrivaled entertainment experience with TRON: Legacy in jaw-dropping Disney Blu-ray 3D - complete with never-before-seen bonus features that take you even deeper into the phenomenal world of TRON. It's Magic In A New Dimension. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1592 Baseball is seen as the quintessentially American sport with good reason. Emerging by the mid-nineteenth century as the nation’s most popular game, baseball provided each new wave of immigrants with an avenue into American culture. Includes interviews with former player Al Rosen, sports historian Maury Allen, celebrity enthusiasts Larry King and Ron Howard, and all-stars Shawn Green and Kevin Youklis, as well as a rare interview with baseball legend Sandy Koufax.SynopsisJEWS AND BASEBALL traces the Jewish involvement in the history of the sport from the game’s earliest days, through the tumultuous war years to today’s All-Star games. By bringing to life dramatic moments in this history, including how the legendary Sandy Koufax pioneered rights for players and Hank Greenberg’s support of Jackie Robinson, the film demonstrates how Jews shaped baseball, and baseball shaped them. Narrated by two-time Academy Award® winner Dustin Hoffman, this lively and thorough account of Jewish America’s love affair with baseball sheds new light on America’s national pastime. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1591 We are all searching for answers to the most basic questions: Who are we? Why are we here? Do we really matter? Features insight and commentary from spiritual leaders and philosophers including: Anna Halpine, Dr. William Hurlbut, Rabbi Simon Jacobson, Dr. Alveda King, and Rev. Richard Neuhaus. SynopsisIn a world fraught with hostility and violence, an altruistic group of young men endeavor to understand the true essence of the human spirit by visiting forgotten souls such as homeless New Yorkers, Peruvian orphans and isolated Ghanaian lepers. By spotlighting heartwarming stories from around the world, this uplifting documentary shows viewers that every single person, no matter his or her lot in life, is beautiful. Gorgeously filmed and masterfully narrated, THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE explores with depth and compassion what it means to be a human being. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1590 Sarah Silverman (The Sarah Silverman Program.), David Cross (Arrested Development), Andy Dick (Less Than Perfect), Sam Seder (Home Movies), H. Jon Benjamin (Archer), Kathy Griffin (Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D List), Laura Kightlinger (The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman), David Waterman, Andy Kindler (Everybody Loves Raymond) and more star in WHO’S THE CABOOSE, the highly worshipped alternative-comedy prequel to the highly worshipped miniseries sequel, Pilot Season.SynopsisWhen a film crew making a documentary on a rare fatal disease among the homeless stops for a drink at an underground comedy club, it doesn’t take long before they decide to turn the attention of their film to the hot and funny stand-up comedian Susan (Sarah Silverman) who is leaving New York and heading to L.A. to land a part in a TV show, unbeknownst to her “performance artist” boyfriend, Max (Sam Seder). Desperate not to lose Susan, Max chases after her in hopes of bringing her back to the “more pure” New York scene. As Susan suffers the indignities and compromises her agent (Andy Dick) hopes will make her a star, fate deals Max a winning hand in the form of entertainment lawyer Ken Fold (H. Jon Benjamin). Suddenly Max is the toast of Hollywood and everyone in town wants him. But all he wants is Susan… http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1589 Inspiring and rich, INGREDIENTS unearths the roots of the local food movement and digs into the stories of the chefs, farmers and activists transforming our broken food system. This upbeat, beautifully-photographed film introduces us to the verdant farms and pioneering restaurants where good food is produced and served. From innovative farm-to-table programs in Harlem to picturesque sheep farms in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, INGREDIENTS shows the heart of an alternative food system – healthy, sustainable and tasty.SynopsisThrough interviews with world-class chefs such as Alice Waters and Greg Higgins and sustainability-minded farmers in Oregon, New York and Ohio, INGREDIENTS weaves an uplifting tale that is equal parts earthy rebellion and mouth-watering homage. Narrated by Bebe Neuwirth and directed by Robert Bates, INGREDIENTS is a fun, open-minded film that will satiate both veteran slow-food fans and the uninitiated alike. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1588 The classic animated film is something that Disney has slowly been attempting to become reacquainted with ever since abandoning its failing endeavors at churning out direct-to-DVD sequels based on their catalog of classics. So far this has given us two films, PRINCESS AND THE FROG, which didn’t do nearly as well as they had hoped but managed to capture peoples’ fascination regardless. And now there is TANGLED, their first foray into 3D animation outside of their partnership with Pixar. Fortunately for Disney, despite this being their second most expensive film ever made it managed to be their highest grossing animated film. Certainly a feat that nobody would have predicted after the disappointment in PRINCESS AND THE FROG’s tenure at the box office.SynopsisWhen the kingdom’s most wanted—and most charming—bandit Flynn Rider (voice of ZACHARY LEVI) hides out in a mysterious tower, he’s taken hostage by Rapunzel (voice of MANDY MOORE), a beautiful and feisty tower-bound teen with 70 feet of magical, golden hair. Flynn’s curious captor, who’s looking for her ticket out of the tower she’s been locked away in for years, strikes a deal with the handsome thief, and the unlikely duo sets off on an action-packed escapade, complete with a super-cop horse, an overprotective chameleon and a gruff gang of pub thugs. Tangled is a story of adventure, heart, humor and hair—lots of hair. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1586 Few people realize that honey bees pollinate one-third of our fruits and vegetables. In fact, these incredible insects play a vital role in producing our food and ensuring our survival. An eye-opening account of a little-known, yet essential, subculture in America, Colony brings to life the fascinating world of bees – and the frightening possibility of their disappearance.SynopsisAlthough honey bees are some of the most resilient, efficient and industrious insects, entire colonies are dying off. Why? COLONY investigates the circumstances and the impacts of “colony collapse disorder” by focusing on beekeepers dealing with the crisis. As these families and individuals struggle to understand this lethal problem, they illuminate the devastating effects of bee extinction not just on bees, but on people. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1585 Tony Scott is no stranger to tense action films; nor is he a stranger to Denzel Washington, who seems to be in every single one of his films. While Scott’s affair as of late has fallen into the mindless drivel category, his films are nonetheless visually arresting and aurally engaging. Essentially Unstoppable is a Michael Bay film with a bit more brains packed into it, but really there’s a lot of the usual fast paced cutting and very irksome shaky cam usage, but overall Scott’s films are at the least fun popcorn entertainment. With Unstoppable he proved that, once again, he can make slightly smarter films than Bay; though when it comes to a runaway train with plot points you could jam your finger through you admittedly don’t have much wiggle room in the mindless action category. SynopsisHang on for the ride of your life as Oscar winner Denzel Washington* and Chris Pine (Star Trek) team up for the year's most electrifying action-thriller. A runaway train, transporting deadly toxic chemicals, is barreling down on Scranton, Pennsylvania and only two men can stop it: a veteran engineer (Washington), and a young conductor (Pine.) Thousands of lives hang in the balance as these ordinary heroes attempt to chase down one million tons of hurtling steel and prevent an epic disaster. Helmed by visionary director Tony Scott (Man On Fire), this story inspired by actual events delivers excitement and suspense that are...UNSTOPPABLE! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1584 Inspired by such “pick yourself up by your bootstraps” British comedies like The Full Monty and Calendar Girls, this cute comedy deftly mixes slapstick with insights on such issues as gender rivalry and the unfashionable appearance of middle-aged men in swimsuits!SynopsisUnemployed, divorced, and estranged from his daughter, Frederik (Jonas Inde) is stuck in Loserville with no hope of getting back on the right track. However, his luck changes when a botched prank gives him the idea to mold his motley buddies into Sweden’s only all-male synchronized-swimming team, with the World Cup finals in Berlin as the seemingly unattainable goal. Funny, charming, and totally unconventional, THE SWIMSUIT ISSUE is the complete feel-good package for everyone, bringing out the synchronized-swimmer in all of us. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1583 Experience the wonders of love when physical chemistry between two of today’s hottest stars explodes onscreen! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment presents the romantic drama LOVE & OTHER DRUGS, arriving on Blu-ray and DVD on March 1st, 2011. From director/producer Edward Zwick and based on the best-selling book Hard Sell: The Evolution of a Viagra Salesman by Jamie Reidy, LOVE & OTHER DRUGS takes aim with Cupid’s arrow when love is found in the unlikeliest of places!SynopsisSmooth-talking playboy Jamie Randall (Jake Gyllenhaal, Brokeback Mountain) is on a fast track to the top of the pharmaceutical sales industry – promoting the miracle drug Viagra by day and charming the ladies by night. However, Jamie is taken aback when he meets Maggie Murdock (Academy Award-nominee Anne Hathaway, The Devil Wears Prada), a radiantly sexy free spirit who doesn’t allow her treatment for Parkinson’s get in the way of living her life. As Jamie and Maggie juggle their respective medications, they are forced to reassess their budding romance when they realize that love is the ultimate high. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1582 Possibly one of the most unexpected things that could be done in Hollywood as of late is to cast the charming Johnny Depp in a movie that is directed by someone other than Tim Burton; in this case it’s far from common with director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck at the helm. This is only the second film under his directorial vision, the first being “The Live of Others” from 2006 which I only vaguely recall hearing about - but it apparently did well. I’m honestly not surprised. I didn’t know what to expect from The Tourist as the only rumblings I’ve been able to gather about it simply damned it with no detailed reasoning given. Given that disappointing impression I simply expected to be bored throughout its entire run, but not long into the movie it managed to intrigue me - even before I even realized that it had.SynopsisFrank (Johnny Depp), a mild-mannered American on vacation in Venice, Italy, is befriended by Elise (Angelina Jolie), a breathtakingly beautiful woman with a mysterious secret. Soon, their playful romantic dalliance turns into a complicated web of dangerous deceit as they are chased by Interpol, the Italian police, and Russian hit men in this suspense-filled, international action thriller. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1581 The Venture Bros. may be one of the most daring and original shows to ever exist. Not only does it go on extremely long breaks that make me want to punch a walrus, but it also manages to change itself up every season. Each time they make a major change you think “nah, it won’t last, it’s just a ploy.” Soon you’re into the next season and you realize it’s sticking. The boys aren’t going to be kept perpetually young. They graduate from high school and explore their own collegial careers. On top of that you change up the Brock dynamic and replace him with Sergeant Hatred and…well, lets just say that the creators were being genial when they started out slow by altering The Monarch’s lineup before they started futzing with the main cast. What it all boils down to is The Venture Bros. is not just a daring show for changing things up on a regular basis, but also changing things up for the better. Never has one of these alterations in character storylines or series storylines ever backfired and while that is fantastic for the fans, it must be kind of nerve wracking to keep up that tradition for the creators.SynopsisQuestions are answered and truths are revealed. Learn how Henchman 21 copes with life without 24. See what happens when Brock and the Venture family are forced to part ways. Discover the final fate of H.E.L.P.eR. And all the while, the balance of the free world hangs in the hands of Dean Venture, who must kill Hitler. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1580 Generally when you think of the name Stephen King images of horrific things pop into your head, rarely are they ever of something pleasant. While King is best known for his scary stories, the man has also written some of the greatest dramatic stories over the years as well…stories that eventually went on to become absolutely brilliant films in their own right. Whether it was The Shawshank Redemption or The Green Mile, plenty of King films have received notoriety over the years for their brilliance. One film, however, isn’t always remembered so much as a King story as it is a Rob Reiner film. That film is, of course, Stand By Me, a coming-of-age drama that revolves around four boys and their search for a dead body. While it does have elements of King creepiness, it’s definitely much more of a drama rather than straight up horror like It (damn clowns!). SynopsisIn a small woodsy Oregon town, a group of friends--sensitive Gordie (Wil Wheaton), tough guy Chris (River Phoenix), flamboyant Teddy (Corey Feldman), and scaredy-cat Vern (Jerry O'Connell)--are in search of a missing teenager's body. Wanting to be heroes in each other's and their hometown's eyes, they set out on an unforgettable two-day trek that turns into an odyssey of self-discovery. They sneak smokes, tell tall tales, cuss 'cause it's cool and band together when the going gets tough. When they encounter the town's knife-wielding hoods who are also after the body, the boys discover a strength they never knew they had. STAND BY ME is a rare and special film about friendship and the indelible experiences of growing up. Filled with humor and suspense, STAND BY ME is based on the novella 'The Body' by Stephen King. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1579 If you didn't enjoy the previous thirteen episodes of Batman: The Brave and The Bold, then I doubt this latest collection will change any minds. However, there's just so much here to love that it's impossible for me not to implore readers, even those who have never given this show a chance, to give it a spin. Yes, it's different than any Batman cartoon that has come along in recent times, but there's just so much going for it - it's so fun, so inventive and completely unique - that it's hard not to be won over by the charm it exudes in droves. And thankfully, Warner Home Video has given us thirteen more episodes to chew on in this new home video DVD release.Synopsis:Batman wings into an exciting new era, teaming with a mighty honor roll of DC Comics Super Heroes in the action-packed Batman: The Brave and The Bold: Season One, Part Two. Through the show’s final 13 animated adventures in this 2-disc collection, the Dark Knight allies with Aquaman, Plastic Man, Blue Beetle, Red Tornado, Green Arrow, Wildcat, Deadman, Bronze Tiger and Atom to take on an array of evildoers ranging from mad scientists to intergalactic crooks, from power-mad dictators to out-of-control teenagers. He even travels to a parallel world, becoming the villainous Owlman! In this cool, cutting-edge and often funny series bringing back old-school comic-book styling and dry wit to crimefighting, Batman faces any peril – including other heroes stealing the show – in his relentless pursuit of justice. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1578 Though the technology, wardrobe, and cars may be dated when it comes to eighties films, it’s often the decade that produced a lot of the iconic and most often quoted films even to this day. The list ranges from the Star Wars sequels to Indiana Jones, the Back to the Future series, Karate Kid, Dirty Dancing…the list goes on and on exponentially. But amidst all the cult classics and award winners you also have a few genuinely engaging and emotional films that to this day remain on the top of critics lists. And often on that list is Rain Man, the 1988 four time Oscar winner that brought together Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman in two of their most iconic roles and still a go-to film for many when it comes to classic dramatic films. SynopsisFollowing the death of their father, Charlie Babbitt (Tom Cruise, Valkyrie) discovers he has an autistic brother named Raymond (Dustin Hoffman, Tootsie) and now the two are on the cross-country trip of their lives. Nicknamed RAIN MAN, Raymond pushes hot-headed Charlie to the limits of his patience and then pulls him completely out of his self-centered world. But what began as an unsentimental journey for the Babbitt brothers becomes much more than the distance between two places; it's a connection between two vastly different people and a poignant, profound and powerful film. Among its eight Academy Award nominations, RAIN MAN won Best Picture, Best Actor (Hoffman), Best Director (Barry Levinson, Wag the Dog), and Best Original Screenplay. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1577 It’s bewildering to think that as successful and critically acclaimed as The Fighter was, it took Wahlberg so long to get the film made. Wahlberg began to work on his boxing skills in 2005 and kept training daily until 2009 when the film finally went into production after years of struggling to find funding and a complete cast. Once production began on the film so did the buzz and the amount of positive press this film received over the next couple of years was astounding. Wahlberg’s dedication paid off as the film went on to get nominated for seven Oscars, two of which it took home (for Supporting Actor and Actress). SynopsisAcademy Award® Nominees Mark Wahlberg (The Departed), Christian Bale (The Dark Knight) and Amy Adams (Doubt) star in this “remarkable†” film. Based on a true story, two brothers, against all the odds, come together to train for a historic title bout that has the power to reunite their fractured family and give their hard-luck town what it's been waiting for: pride. Micky Ward (Wahlberg) is a struggling boxer long overshadowed by his older brother and trainer, Dicky (Bale), a local legend battling his own demons. Their explosive relationship threatens to take them both down - but the bond of blood may be their only chance for redemption. †Joe Morgenstern, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1576 Even among some of her most negative critics, Christina Aguilera is agreed to have an unique vocal talent that truly lets her stand out from her painfully-obvious manufactured peers in pop stardom. Unexpectedly, however, that talent eventually led her to a stagnant career and despite much attempt she hasn’t quite managed to come back out on top. So, it struck me as odd when I started seeing trailers for this movie. Not that she was doing a musical, but rather that the whole point of it seemed to act as a showcase of her real, nearly surreal, talent given the average quality of pop music. Seeing as how it’s almost a decade too late, though, it actually comes off as something of a memorial for her career.SynopsisA small town singer, Ali (Christina Aguilera), moves to the big city for her chance at stardom where she is enchanted by Burlesque, a glamorous nightclub packed with dancers, sizzling music, and an owner (Cher) in need of a star. Jam-packed with visually stunning musical numbers and an all-star cast featuring Eric Dane, Kristen Bell and Stanley Tucci. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1575 It's impossible to keep a good franchise down, and the Scooby-Doo franchise is a pretty solid example of that. Countless television shows, a couple live-action movies, piles of animated movies, and countless piles of merchandise. Earlier this year, Cartoon Network introduced the latest installment of the Scooby-Doo franchise, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, a series that pays heavy homage to the original cartoon while giving a bit of a modern twist to it all. As to what should be no surprise, what we end up with here is a pretty fun romp that Scooby-Doo fans should find pretty impossible to pass up.Synopsis:Hop in the van for Mystery Inc.’s new, cool series of spooky capers. Like, it’s an all-new Scooby-Doo TV series for families who want their mysteries like Scooby-Doo and Shaggy want their pizza … spicy with extra sauce! Join the gang in Crystal Cove – the most haunted place on Earth – to solve creepy cases packed with fearsome spooks and frights, exciting chases, terrifying surprises and of course, Freddy’s ingenious traps. But the gang doesn’t fall for that ghost stuff anymore. They know there’s always a bad guy behind the monster suit, until they receive a cryptic clue from the mysterious Mr. E, who challenges them with their greatest mystery yet – to uncover the secret behind the curse of Crystal Cove! Get trapped with Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Freddy, Daphne and Velma in four action-packed adventures from the cool, new show that’s a lot of doggone fun! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1574 How does one follow up a multi-Oscar winning film like Slumdog Millionaire? Well, you create another Oscar worthy film, of course! While Danny Boyle’s 127 Hours netted six Oscar nominations, it ended up receiving zero of them. Quite a contrast to Slumdog’s ten nominations and eight wins, but aside from Boyle there is really nothing remotely similar about those two films so I suppose it should come as no surprise. Regardless of its lack of Oscar’s, 127 Hours is every bit as fresh, original, and edge-of-your-seat as Boyle’s other past outings and was just another great staple to add to his already impressive catalog of films. SynopsisFrom the Academy Award®-winning director of Slumdog Millionaire, Danny Boyle, and starring James Franco in a “tour de force performance” (Associated Press), comes one of the most “triumphant and enthralling” (Rolling Stone) movies of the year. Nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor (Franco), 127 HOURS is an edge-of-your seat cinematic experience that recounts one man’s harrowing story of survival. Based on true events, 127 Hours follows Aron Ralston, a dare-devil outdoorsman who gets trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone in the Utah mountains. As hours turn into days, Ralston embarks on a personal journey in which he relies on the memories of family and friends – as well as his own courage and ingenuity - to turn adversity into triumph! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1572 In a time when vampires reign supreme it’s nice to see that other horror staples are seeing a revival in interest as well. While zombies have been around in film and TV (though mostly film) since Romero brought them to life (so to speak) so many years ago, they’ve recently seen a resurgence. Whether it’s Zack Snyder’s Dawn of the Dead remake or Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later, there are plenty of modern day interpretations of the undead and The Walking Dead is just another such portrayal of what will happen when the undead walk the Earth. I say “when” because we all know it’s inevitable, so stock up on those shotgun shells!SynopsisAfter waking from a coma in an abandoned hospital, police officer Rick Grimes finds the world he knew gone - ravaged by a zombie epidemic of apocalyptic proportions. Nearby, on the outskirts of Atlanta, a small encampment struggles to survive as 'the dead' stalk them at every turn. Can Rick and the others hold onto their humanity as they fight to live in this terrifying new world? And, amidst dire conditions and personal rivalries, will they ultimately survive one another? AMC’s The Walking Dead is an epic, survival adventure series from the director of The Shawshank Redemption and the producer of The Terminator and Aliens. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1571 Generally speaking when you pick up a foreign film that happened to travel on over to our region of film (by that I mean Region 1 DVD or Region A Blu-ray’s) it’s either a result of an Oscar nomination or because of its overwhelming success in its mother country. With The Man from Nowhere it’s definitely the latter as this really isn’t something that would turn the Academy’s eye—it’s pretty much just a straight up action flick filled with violence. There is an engaging story built underneath it as well of course, but the overlaying blood splatter will likely turn more than a few off. SynopsisTae-shik (Won Bin) is an ex-special agent whose tragic past has made him distance himself from the world. He now lives in solitude and runs a small pawnshop. The only people he now sees are the few pawnshop customers and So-mi (Kim Sae-Ron), the young girl who lives next door. So-mi has also been neglected by the world and as she and Tae-shik begin to spend more time together, the two gradually open themselves to one another and become friends. Then one day, So-mi suddenly disappears. So-mi s mother becomes involved in a major crime causing both her and So-mi to get kidnapped. Tae-shik is drawn back out into the world in a frantic search for So-mi s whereabouts. In order to save So-mi, his one and only friend in this world, Tae-shik makes a certain arrangement with the crime mob. While So-mi is still nowhere to be found, the police begin to chase after Tae-shik. With the police and the underground mob close on his tail, Tae-shik continues his frantic search for So-mi and his hidden past slowly becomes revealed... http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1570 Touted as Dwayne Johnson’s return to the bad ass action hero genre, Faster had a great trailer to help push the film into the public eye and then…nothing. I didn’t even realize the film had even gone to theaters by the time it arrived in a bubble mailer for me to review. I was a bit concerned it became a DTV fair but nope—it landed in theaters in late November and went away without much of a fuss (and sadly it’s budget barely made back). The film itself wasn’t received overwhelming poor or well by critics, but it definitely was a middle of the road film—nothing something that makes the biggest splash during the holiday season. SynopsisAfter 10 years in prison, Driver (Dwayne Johnson) has focused on one thing – hunting down the people responsible for brutally murdering his brother. Now a free man with a terrifying purpose, he sets out to find and kill all those on his list. But on his heels are two men who will do anything to stop him – a veteran cop (Billy Bob Thornton) and a hit man (Oliver Jackson-Cohen) who finds his match in this worthy opponent. Now, the hunter is also the hunted. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1569 Breathe a sigh of relief, fans of writer Grant Morrison's epic All-Star Superman graphic novel. They've done it justice with this new animated adaptation. Managing to shorten a 12-issue series into a 75-minute movie is by no means an easy task, but the creative team behind this film has managed to pull it off here. By no means does it recreate the original story beat for beat, but instead kind-of pays homage to it by focusing on only specific aspects of the original and framing a surprisingly cohesive (albeit jumpy) little jaunt. While the never-ending battle between Superman and Lex Luthor is undeniably front and center, serving as the film's main story, we do get touches on why the source material is so beloved. So, after getting beyond that pesky synopsis, let's see what the animated All-Star Superman feature has in store...Synopsis:Fueled by hatred and jealousy, Lex Luthor masterminds an elaborate plot to kill the Man of Steel – and it works. Poisoned by solar radiation, Superman is dying. With weeks to live, he fulfills his life’s dreams – especially revealing his true identity to Lois Lane – until Luthor proclaims his ultimate plan to control the world with no alien hero to stop him. Powers fading, Superman engages in a spectacular deadly battle with Luthor that could truly trigger the end of Earth’s Greatest Protector. This startling and gripping DC Universe Animated Original Movie stars the voice talents of James Denton, Anthony LaPaglia, Christina Hendricks and Ed Asner. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1568 Some animated films are destined to be classics forever. The majority of titles belonging to that category are produced by Disney and most of them are already considered as such. Few will ever balk at the thought of Snow White or Beauty and the Beast being referred to as some of the Disney greats, but those are just two of a much larger collection. With each year Disney continues to release its classics in new DVD editions and now with the introduction of Blu-ray, Disney has another format to unleash their library on. While we’ve already seen a myriad of classic (and modern) Disney titles on the format, we welcome Bambi into their revered “Diamond” collection, something only a few Disney films thus far have entered. SynopsisAs morning light breaks across the meadow, a young deer named Bambi is born and hailed as ‘Prince of the Forest.’ Soon Bambi emerges from the thicket on wobbly legs, much to the delight of his new friends, Thumper, the playful rabbit, and Flower, the bashful yet lovable skunk. But the fun of nibbling on fresh blossoms and frolicking through the woods is only the beginning. Exploring his new world, and guided by the wisdom of Friend Owl, Bambi learns valuable life lessons with every adventure – experiencing the power of friendship, family, and love along the away. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1567 Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the simultaneous release of Jeff Beck: Rock ‘N’ Roll Party Honoring Les Paul on DVD and Blu-ray on February 22, 2011. Filmed in high definition at the Iridium Jazz Club in New York City this past spring, this musical celebration of the great Les Paul features selections of his songs and other great rock 'n' roll tracks. [Pre-book order date January 28, MSRP $14.98 for DVD, $19.98 for Blu-ray]. Additionally, ATCO will be offering a CD of this exclusive show, featuring 20 live tracks from the evening, on the same day.SynopsisOn June 9, 2010, which would have been Les Paul’s 95th birthday, Jeff Beck and a host of special guests paid homage to the musical icon at the very club where he performed every Monday night. Rockabilly songstress Imelda May and her band, led by Darrel Higham, as well as Gary US Bonds, Brian Setzer and Trombone Shorty, join Beck on many of the tracks. This collection of talent, performing in the clubs intimate setting, truly captures the spirit of Les Paul’s weekly gigs, and the DVD puts the viewer right there in the audience for a showcase of stunning musicianship and truly great songs. Spotted in the audience at this spectacular event is an amalgam of stars, such as David Bowie, Meat Loaf, Steven Van Zandt, Paul Shaffer, Kirk Hammett, and Nils Lofgren. Rock ‘N’ Roll Party Honoring Les Paul includes the classics “Bye Bye Blues,” “Sitting On Top Of The World,” “Mockin' Bird Hill,” “Peter Gunn,” “How High The Moon,” “New Orleans,” “Walking In The Sand,” and many more! In addition to the music, the DVD contains a host of bonus features: An interview with Jeff Beck; Behind The Scenes; “At home with Jeff Beck & his guitars”; “Jeff Beck & Les Paul – Rock ‘n’ Roll Tonite” and “Les Paul & his little black box.” http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1566 In recent years there has been something of an expectation that no movie can be left alone, whether it garners high success or is even practically laughed out of the box office. Either way, it’s a sure bet that it’s going to get a sequel, which tends to be most unfortunate - especially for the latter. The direct-to-video, or direct-to-DVD, market has become quite notorious for releasing sequels to movies that may not have garnered the success for them or could have even stood alone. Sometimes there just doesn’t need to be a franchise. Granted, there have been a handful of decent direct-to-video sequel releases that really weren’t -that- bad, but more often than not you’ll get something that also manages to be not -that- good.SynopsisAn expert in anti-terrorism tactics, hotshot LAPD officer Paul Cutler (GABRIEL MACHT, Behind Enemy Lines) is ordered to Detroit to train its S.W.A.T. team in the latest hostage rescue techniques. But everything changes when their botched response to a domestic dispute ends with a hostage down and a government assassin (ROBERT PATRICK, Terminator 2) now obsessed with terminating Cutler as well as his entire S.W.A.T. team. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1565 It’s really quite amazing how iconic a film can become in such a relatively short period of time. I grew up knowing of this movie, or at least of the characters, although I’d never seen it (considering I was four when the film came out, that’s not really surprising). For some reason I thought the film was a remake—after all how could relatively modern day characters entrench themselves into the common vernacular and culture of a society so quickly? Rarely do you see that happen and even rarer do they stick around a few decades after the fact. But that’s what happens when you have what is essentially an immaculately crafted film—it stands the test of time and you get parodies of it still occurring twenty years after it bowed out of theaters. SynopsisThelma & Louise is a thrilling, full-throttle adventure hailed as one of the best road movies of all time. Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis star as accidental outlaws on a desperate flight across the Southwest after a tragic incident at a roadside bar. With a determined detective (Keitel) on their trail, a sweet-talking hitchhiker (Pitt) in their path and a string of crimes in their wake, their journey alternates between hilarious, high-speed thrill ride and empowering personal odyssey even as the law closes in. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1564 Another year and another volley of DC Universe titles. We start this year off with All-Star Superman, the 2006 (yeah, it’s really been five years) critically acclaimed comic book that fired a jolt of silver age through the Superman mythos. While it was definitely a lot goofier than the modern day dead-serious comic books, it mixed in so much of the old with the new that it felt simultaneously fresh as it did familiar. Occasionally hokey dialogue or laughable scenarios, by modern-day comic book standards, just worked with the way writer Grant Morrison and artist Frank Quietly presented this world where Superman is dying. It’s a depressing story to be sure, but also one that sends chills and a myriad of goose bumps around your body.SynopsisFueled by hatred and jealousy, Lex Luthor masterminds an elaborate plot to kill the Man of Steel – and it works. Poisoned by solar radiation, Superman is dying. With weeks to live, he fulfills his life’s dreams – especially revealing his true identity to Lois Lane – until Luthor proclaims his ultimate plan to control the world with no alien hero to stop him. Powers fading, Superman engages in a spectacular deadly battle with Luthor that could truly trigger the end of Earth’s Greatest Protector. This startling and gripping DC Universe Animated Original Movie stars the voice talents of James Denton, Anthony LaPaglia, Christina Hendricks and Ed Asner. http://www.wfdvdreport.com The staff at The World's Finest DVD Report will be taking next week off to enjoy this gloriously freezing winter weather. Regular reviews will resume on February 21st. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1562 Those who saw this film in theaters were likely surprised by the film they received. Granted the film barely had an audience during its small (barely over 230 theaters) run, but those who saw Keira Knightly’s face on the posters or Andrew Garfield and Carey Mulligan bumping heads likely thought it was another love story that would test their patience (how many times can we watch Knightly fall in love exactly?). Those of us (myself included) who strapped themselves in for another run of the mill love story ended up with something much, much different—although the love angle was kept alive in some fashion, it was definitely a much more depressing and dystopian film than what was expected. SynopsisAs children, Ruth, Kathy and Tommy, spend their childhood at a seemingly idyllic English boarding school. As they grow into young adults, they find that they have to come to terms with the strength of the love they feel for each other, while preparing themselves for the haunting reality that awaits them. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1561 Before I get going, I just want to make my stance clear on whether or not Black Panther is an animated series or a motion comic. Personally, I don't feel right calling this a "motion comic." It doesn't feel like it. Sure, some of the limitations of the format are there, but this feels far more "animated" than some cartoons on today. And, well, since it's from Marvel Animation and originally announced as an animated series when it was set to air on BET (before being annexed due to the network's demographic target changes), I think I'll hereto label it a such. There's just no way it can be flatly called a motion comic. That really does a disservice to Black Panther.Synopsis:Deep in the heart of Africa lies Wakanda, an advanced and unconquerable civilization. A family of warrior-kings possessing superior speed, strength and agility has governed this mysterious nation as long as time itself. The latest in this famed line is young King T’Challa, the great hero known worldwide as the Black Panther. Now outsiders once again threaten to invade and plunder Wakanda. Leading this brutal assault is Klaw, a deadly assassin with the blood of T'Challa's murdered father on his hands, who brings with him an army of superpowered mercenaries. Even with Wakanda's might and his own superhuman skills, can the Black Panther prevail against this deadly invading force? From respected filmmaker/producer Reginald Hudlin and legendary comic book artist John Romita Jr., comes the epic Black Panther story for which comic fans have waited 25 years. Starring Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou (Gladiator,Blood Diamond and Alfre Woodard (True Blood, Star Trek: First Contact). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1560 Aside from perhaps the Oceans series, films filled with movie stars rarely deliver. Hell, even the Oceans series had its weak moments, but at least it attempted to reconcile it with the third film. But the main problem with films like The Expendables or You Again is they use up all their funds on the talent and advertising, leaving precious little left for script development. While this may not always be the case, it’s hard to imagine that someone, at some point, sat back and said “yes, this script to You Again is a real winner.” In the end it didn’t matter as Disney made the budget back and then another $10 million on top of it—proving that star power in spades is often too much for the movie going public to resist. SynopsisFor Marnie (Kristen Bell), high school was a horror movie, and her brother’s wedding is the sequel when her archrival comes back to haunt her as his bride. Its nice girl versus mean girl in this hysterical reunion with the one person Marnie would really like to forget. And if that weren’t enough, Marnie’s mom (Jamie Lee Curtis) reunites with her own high school nemesis (Sigourney Weaver). Complete with hilarious, never before-seen bonus material, You Again is one crazy comedy that’ll keep you laughing again and again. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1559 There’s probably nothing worse than getting a film like The Virginity Hit on your doorstep after a drought of nothing to review. While I enjoy a good vacation from work and school as much as the next person, to return to this was like going back to school and your first class being a group communication class. It could be great, you don’t really know, but from the outset it looks like it’s going to be a terrible, terrible time to be had. Still, you press forward (or play, in this case) and hope for the best. After all, how could a class that’s been taken by hundreds before you be all that bad? Or in our case how could a movie that has been done before hundreds of times be all that bad? Oh wait…that scenario is significantly worse…SynopsisFrom the guys behind Step Brothers comes THE VIRGINITY HIT, an outrageous mockumentary about trying to lose your virginity while the whole world watches. Matt is the last of his buddies to lose his virginity. With his stepbrother recording his every humiliating move and posting it online, Matt gets revenge on his cheating girlfriend, breaks the law, gets a sexy cyber offer too-good-to-be-true, meets the porn star of his dreams and becomes an Internet sensation in the process. Getting laid was never this funny. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1558 Red (or R.E.D.) is such a breath of fresh air. It’s fun, it's light, it's well-acted and just a joy to watch. A great ensemble cast with remarkable chemistry, a nifty little plot, cool action, there's really no stone left unturned in terms of what this movie has done right. It's so rare to see an action/comedy that balances both the action and comedy in such a perfect manner. One doesn't overbear the other, nor does it ever tire out or feel unnecessary at any given time. It just flows. Red finds that perfect balance between the two and is a film that not only is fun, and looks like it was a blast to make, but it's good-natured spirit will surely rub off on the audience. Alright, let's get that synopsis out the way!Synopsis:Based on the cult D.C. Comics graphic novel by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner, Red is an explosive action-comedy starring Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich and Helen Mirren. Frank (Bruce Willis), Joe (Morgan Freeman), Marvin (John Malkovich) and Victoria (Helen Mirren) used to be the CIA's top agents – but the secrets they know just made them the Agency's top targets. Now framed for assassination, they must use all of their collective cunning, experience and teamwork to stay one step ahead of their deadly pursuers and stay alive. To stop the operation, the team embarks on an impossible, cross-country mission to break into the top-secret CIA headquarters, where they will uncover one of the biggest conspiracies and cover-ups in government history. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1557 It’s a wildly believed notion that American remakes of foreign films often end in disaster. Either they directly adapt them to the point that you may as well have just watched an English dubbing of the original or they butcher it so thoroughly that it may as well have been an original script from the start. There’s rarely a middle ground and when there is it usually results in something like Sony’s Quarantine--a film that put you on the edge of your seat but still didn’t manage to scare you as much as the original (Rec). So when the Swedish film Let the Right One In was so successful it seemed inevitable that we (the US) would attempt to remake it into something we could market here as well. Although the film didn’t fare so well in theaters (it barely recouped it’s $20 million dollar budget…and that’s with overseas tickets taken into account), critics loved it and it seemed to upset the “American interpretations suck” notion that plagued remakes for…well, decades, really. SynopsisFrom Matt Reeves – the director of Cloverfield – comes the new vampire classic that critics are calling “chillingly real” (Scott Bowles, USA Today), “one of the best horror films of the year” (Cinematical) and “a haunting, touching and unforgettable thriller” (Pete Hammond, Boxoffice Magazine). In bleak New Mexico, a lonely, bullied boy, Owen (Kodi Smit-McPhee of The Road), forms a unique bond with his mysterious new neighbor, Abby (Chloe Grace Moretz of Kick-Ass), who moves from town to town with the man who appears to be her father (Oscar® Nominee Richard Jenkins of The Visitor). Trapped in the mind and body of a child, however, Abby is forced to hide a horrific secret of bloodthirsty survival. But in a world of both tenderness and terror, how can you invite in the one friend who may unleash the ultimate nightmare? Based on the Swedish novel, Let the Right One In, “Let Me In is a dark and violent love story, a beautiful piece of cinema and a respectful rendering of my novel for which I am grateful.” (John Ajvide Lindqvist, author). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1556 As you sit and watch this film you have to wonder how much blood would have actually been shed if this were all real. I mean obviously they used plenty of fake blood on set, but there’s also plenty of CGI blood in there too as well I’m sure...it’s just there’s a lot of blood in this movie. And that’s really something I and plenty of other critics loved about this film—I mean how does a 3-D horror film garner a 75% (that’s Fresh, mind you) on Rotten Tomatoes without plenty of B-movie grade love? You have to enjoy the genre already but as long as you do, Piranha will make you smile and grimace all at the same time. SynopsisFrom director Alexandre Aja (The Hills Have Eyes) comes the new action thriller PIRANHA 3D. Every year the population of sleepy Lake Victoria explodes from 5,000 to 50,000 for Spring Break, a riot of sun and drunken fun. But this year, there's something more to worry about than hangovers and complaints from local old timers; a new type of terror is about to be cut loose on Lake Victoria. After a sudden underwater tremor sets free scores of the prehistoric man-eating fish, an unlikely group of strangers must band together to stop themselves from becoming fish food for the areas new razor-toothed residents. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1555 Every time there is a film that is nominated for an award or just something that is generally well received by most, the chances that it will be copied grow astronomically higher. It’s not a surprise; of course, as everything successful attracts knock offs and sometimes serves as genuine inspiration to others. Basically what I’m getting at is that after seeing No Country for Old Men, director Patrick Hughes somehow managed to get together $3 million dollars, a mash up of talent and four weeks to shoot and make a movie inspired by No Country and create something that’s both similar and yet different. Though the biggest difference is the inclusion of a CGI panther…SynopsisConstable Shane Cooper (Ryan Kwanten, TV's "True Blood") arrives in the small town of Red Hill in search of a quieter life. But, on Cooper's first day with the Red Hill Police Department, a convicted murderer escapes from prison and heads straight for Red Hill to kill the men who put him there. One by one, the townsmen fall until Cooper discovers the shocking truth about the convict, and must challenge everything he believes in order to stop the massacre and bring justice to Red Hill. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1554 Though I’ve not played the games (aside from the demos, at least), I did watch the first animated film in the series (Downfall) and despite it being a large waste of time it at least had a gruesome baby zombie and that made it at least partially redeemable. In the sequel, Aftermath, we’re given a lengthy (and I do mean lengthy) build up to the action sequences in the film, all the while we flutter between a mix of CGI animation and traditional anime style. Those looking for a follow up experience that was remotely similar to the first film will likely want to just go back and watch that or replay the video game as this film is about as far from satisfying as you can possibly get. SynopsisThe year is 2509 and not only has Earth lost contact with the Ishimura and Isaac Clarke, but now also the USG O'Bannon, the first responder ship sent to rescue them. Four crew members of the O'Bannon have survived. But what happened to the rest of the crew? What were they doing? What secrets are they keeping? All to be revealed...in the Aftermath! Dead Space: Aftermath is a fast paced, horrifying thrill ride told through the perspective of the 4 survivors by several renowned international directors. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1553 When you see a film like Paranormal Activity gross so much money on a budget that was paper thin, you have to wonder why studios spend so much money on horror films when something like that was so simple and highly effective. Well you can toss another film into that same mix as The Last Exorcism was a film that was made for under $2 million…and pulled in thirty-six times that when worldwide box office receipts are taken into account. That is really just flat-out impressive; the film has some genuine thrills and scares in it too, so chalk this up as another low-budget horror film that is leagues beyond what studios are spending $20 - $50 million dollars on currently.SynopsisAfter years of performing “exorcisms” and taking believers’ money, Reverend Cotton Marcus (Patrick Fabian) travels to rural Louisiana with a film crew to document what is to be his last so he can dispel what he believes is the myth of demonic possession. The dynamic reverend is certain that this will be another routine “exorcism” on a disturbed religious fanatic but instead comes upon the blood-soaked farm of the Sweetzer family and a true evil he would have never thought imaginable. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1552 When it comes to Disney Classics, most of us work from memory from seeing them in childhood and carrying our fondness through adulthood. We really don’t remember them as well as we think, but we remember to be entertained. Alice in Wonderland is a bit of a different beast, however, in that it was one of the few Disney classics that I didn’t care for as a kid - mostly because I could never understand it. It’s been a long time since I last saw it and only remembered the portions of the movie that had left me most dumbfounded in the past, so this opportunity to see if I could finally appreciate the movie was much anticipated.SynopsisALICE IN WONDERLAND is a story about a young girl who grows bored listening to her older sister read aloud from a history book about William I of England. While dozing off, she dreams about falling down a rabbit hole (“Wonderland”) that is populated by a peculiar series of misadventures. The always sensible Alice whirls through a world of contradictions, imagination and surprises where she encounters amazing creatures - including a pocket watch-toting White Rabbit, the imperious Queen of Hearts and her army of playing cards, a Cheshire Cat with a lingering smile in an unforgettable fantasy, and the off-kilter Madhatter – and tests her sensibility and courage. In the end it’s all a dream, she is awakened by her sister’s voice, and as the two of them return home for teatime where she realizes that perhaps logic and reason exist for purpose. And in return, her sister realizes affectionately that Alice is still young, but will grow-up in time. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1551 While certainly not the smartest or wittiest thing Family Guy has done, the first Star Wars special was nothing short of a treat for fans of both the animated series and the legendary sci-fi movies. The sequel, Something, Something, Something, Dark Side was a great deal less thrilling (for me at least) as it featured one or two genuinely humorous jokes, while the rest of it just fell flat and carried on in the usual Family Guy way of pushing or trying too hard for a joke. Granted I’m not a fan of the show to begin with, but even those I know who love the show thought Dark Side was lacking. Thankfully this mediocrity was not repeated for It’s a Trap; in fact this third installment really rivals the previous two in terms of the number of successful jokes that landed. SynopsisIn this spectacular and offensively uproarious final chapter, Luke Skywalker (Chris) and Princess Leia (Lois) must travel to Tatooine to free Han Solo (Peter) by infiltrating the wretched stronghold of Jabba the Hutt (Joe), the galaxy’s most loathsome and dreadful gangster. Once reunited, the Rebels team up with a tribe of Ewoks to combat the Imperial forces on the forest moon of Endor. Meanwhile the Emperor (Carter Pewterschmidt) and Darth Vader (Stewie) conspire to turn Luke to the dark side, and young Skywalker is determined to rekindle the spirit of the Jedi within his father. The Galactic Civil War has never been more outrageous, as the Rebel forces gather to attack the seemingly defenseless and incomplete second Death Star in the battle that will determine the fate of the galaxy. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1550 The inspirational story about one of the most remarkable feats in sports history, SECRETARIAT, comes to Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray™ + DVD), DVD and Movie Download on January 25, 2011 by Walt Disney Studios. This powerful and thrilling journey of the 1973 Triple Crown winner and its owner Penny Chenery, played by Academy Award® and Golden Globe nominee Diane Lane, brings hope, heart and courage to audiences of all ages making SECRETARIAT a perfect film to add to the home library. The home entertainment debut of the critically acclaimed SECRETARIAT will keep audiences engaged for hours on end with never-before-shared in-depth interviews with Penny Chenery, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, deleted scenes and more on the story of one of the greatest accomplishments in sports history.SynopsisDisney presents an astonishing true story bursting with hope, heart and courage. Diane Lane and John Malkovich lead a celebrated cast in this inspirational motion picture from the producers of Miracle, Invincible and The Rookie. Behind every legend, lies an impossible dream. Witness the spectacular journey of an incredible horse named Secretariat and the moving story of his unlikely owner, a housewife who risked everything to make him a champion. Out of the gate with never-before-seen bonus features, Secretariat is hours of pulse-pounding entertainment for the whole family! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1549 Rodriguez had quite an eventful 2010, although not one overflowing with extreme success. First his producer credit on Predators helped push that film as far as an R-rated Sci-fi set in a jungle could possibly succeed at the box office. Then he followed it up some months later with Machete, a film based off of a trailer that preceded the Grindhouse double feature that Tarantino and he directed (or separate parts of, rather). With Danny Trejo in his first starring role (front and center in all posters to boot) the film wasn’t sure to be a huge success out the gate but with talent like Robert DeNiro, Jessica Alba and a handful of other talented individuals playing supporting roles under Trejo, it was a film that quickly earned plenty of accolades from those who enjoy such mindless entertainment. Surprisingly there was a kind of political/humane message interwoven throughout all of it; but really, in the end, it was about as many droplets of blood that were expelled on screen…of which there were many, many gallons. SynopsisFrom director Robert Rodriguez (Grindhouse, Sin City), and featuring an all-star cast including Danny Trejo, Robert De Niro and Jessica Alba, comes an action-packed, bare-knuckled fistful of carnage asada! Set up, double-crossed and left for dead, Machete (Trejo) is an ass-kicking ex-Federale who lays waste to anything that gets in his path. As he takes on hit men, vigilantes and a ruthless drug cartel, bullets fly, blades clash and the body count rises. Any way you slice it, vengeance has a new name--Machete. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1548 Red (or R.E.D.) is such a breathe of fresh air. It's fun, it's light, it's well-acted and just a joy to watch. A great ensemble cast with remarkable chemistry, a nifty little plot, cool action, there's really no stone left unturned in terms of what this movie has done right. It's so rare to see an action/comedy that balances both the action and comedy in such a perfect manner. One doesn't overbear the other, nor does it ever tire out or feel unnecessary at any given time. It just flows. Red finds that perfect balance between the two and is a film that not only is fun, and looks like it was a blast to make, but it's good-natured spirit will surely rub off on the audience. Alright, let's get that synopsis out the way!Synopsis:Based on the cult D.C. Comics graphic novel by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner, Red is an explosive action-comedy starring Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich and Helen Mirren. Frank (Bruce Willis), Joe (Morgan Freeman), Marvin (John Malkovich) and Victoria (Helen Mirren) used to be the CIA's top agents – but the secrets they know just made them the Agency's top targets. Now framed for assassination, they must use all of their collective cunning, experience and teamwork to stay one step ahead of their deadly pursuers and stay alive. To stop the operation, the team embarks on an impossible, cross-country mission to break into the top-secret CIA headquarters, where they will uncover one of the biggest conspiracies and cover-ups in government history. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1547 If you’re an avid watcher of the near-antiquated plain ol’ cable television, you’re most likely familiar with the stigma with any show airing on Fox that’s considered good or even moderately decent; it will be canceled. Unfortunately, Futurama was one such victim of their timeslot shenanigans that ultimately end its fate. However, its four seasons continued to fascinate and attract viewers in its long running syndication across various channels, eventually being resurrected direct-to-DVD with four movies thanks to Comedy Central’s backing. And fans weren’t all that pleased. They certainly weren’t terrible, but they just didn’t meet fans’ expectations, until finally it was announced that a new season was on the horizon.SynopsisWe’re back in business! Planet Express is now delivering “Futurama” Volume 5 to terrestrial locations beginning December 21, 2010 just in time for the holidays! The Simpsons genius, Matt Groening, placed a large order of these shiny discs featuring the animated series truly light-years-ahead-of-its-time! Join my friends Fry, Bender, Leela and the rest of the gang for 13 hilarious new episodes that tackle some of the most controversial subjects in the galaxy...including evolution, mind exchange, feline intelligence and even robosexual marriage. Bender believes it can happen! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1546 It’s not often you assemble a big cast of low-level actors (at least in terms of popularity, not necessarily talent) and actually manage to produce a film that turns a profit. You often see these kinds of films flop straight onto home video but Takers had enough glitz and glamor going for it that writer/director John Luessenhop was able to deliver a product that was theater worthy but to also entice audience goers to go see this film in such a fashion that it’s $32 million dollar budget was more than doubled. Though not well received by critics the film was a mindless action flick and audience pleaser, something that came at just the right time during the dry months of August/September. SynopsisThis high-stakes action thriller stars Matt Dillon, Paul Walker, Idris Elba, Jay Hernandez, Michael Ealy and Tip “T.I.” Harris. After pulling off a spectacular series of brilliantly planned bank robberies, a notorious team of professional criminals attempts one last heist, a once-in-a-lifetime job with a $25 million payoff. And all that stands in their way is a cop hell-bent on doing whatever it takes to solve the case and bring the TAKERS down. Chris Brown and Hayden Christensen costar in an adrenaline-rushed thrill ride packed with twists and turns. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1545 We are truly in an era of adult cartoons. I don’t mean sexually explicit ones (although those are bountiful as well), but rather ones that are the fruit of [adult swim]’s loin. The network (or sub-network/animation block, whatever you want to call it) has really gone above and beyond when it comes to spawning shows that range from uncomfortably awkward to ones that are hilarious and down right stupid. While the most popular “adult” cartoons (Family Guy, The Simpsons, etc.) are certainly not something six year olds should be watching most of the time, shows like Venture Bros. and Metalocalypse are shows that should just not be watched any anyone unless they’re over 17. Basically what I’m getting at is Archer is a filthy show and it should be watched only by adults. Oh and it’s on FX, not [adult swim], so don’t go looking for this latest endeavor from Adam Reed and Matt Thompson on that network. SynopsisARCHER The Complete First Season arrives on DVD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on 28 December, 2010. FX’s original animated half-hour comedy series premiered 14 January, 2010. The show is set at the International Secret Intelligence Service (ISIS), a spy agency where espionage and global crises are merely opportunities for its highly trained employees to confuse, undermine, betray and royally screw each other. TIME Magazine’s James Poniewozik wrote “If you want your action parody and office sitcom all in one, Archer may well be the spy you'll love." Of course, he loves mother (aka The Boss) so we’re suspicious of his motives. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1544 Alpha and Omega is not without it's charm, let me say that right away. The main character, voiced by Justin Long, is very likable and easy to follow for the duration of the movie. Voicing Humphrey, an Omega wolf who tries to ease the tension of his pack with his goofy antics, Long instantly yanks the viewer into this small wolf colony in Canada, setting up the very basic story and laying out the characters within the first few minutes. As enjoyable as Long's voicework is in the feature, surprisingly strong I have to admit, is he able to help the film overcome it shortcomings?Synopsis:What makes for the ultimate road trip? Hitchhiking, truck stops, angry bears, prickly porcupines and a golfing goose with a duck caddy. Just ask Kate and Humphrey, two wolves who are trying to get home after being taken by park rangers and shipped halfway across the country. Humphrey is an Omega wolf, whose days are about quick wit, snappy one-liners and hanging with his motley crew of fun-loving wolves and video-gaming squirrels. Kate is an Alpha: duty, discipline and sleek Lara Croft eye-popping moves fuel her fire. Humphrey's motto – make 'em laugh. Kate's motto – I'm the boss. And they have a thousand miles to go. Back home rival wolf packs are on the march and conflict is brewing. Only Kate and Humphrey can restore the peace. But first, they have to survive each other. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1543 Making a sequel to a film over twenty years after the fact is risky not only because of trying to get the original talent back but also coming up with a good enough story to revive it. Wall Street was hardly a film that screamed “sequel” but director Oliver Stone saw enough possibility in a modern version of it to give it a go-around. Stone brought back Douglas and incorporated Gordon Gekko’s daughter into the mix as well as her boyfriend/fiancé. Although not received well by critics, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps fared well enough at the box office, although the films $70 million dollar budget wasn’t even recouped domestically. SynopsisFollowing a lengthy prison term, Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas) finds himself on the outside looking in at a world he once commanded. Hoping to repair his relationship with his daughter, Winnie (Carey Mulligan), Gekko forges an alliance with her fiancé, Jake (Shia LaBeouf). But Winnie and Jake learn the hard way that Gekko is still a master manipulator who will stop at nothing to reclaim his rightful place at the top of Wall Street. http://www.wfdvdreport.com We here at The World's Finest DVD Report would like to wish everyone here a great holiday season and a very happy new year! Drive safe, spend time with loved ones and just enjoy the rest of 2010 as much as possible, as 2011 promises to be another great year for movies, DVDs, and Blu-ray!Regular reviews will resume on January 17th. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1540 2010 saw a lot of action film ensembles either return to the screen or feel like they were returning. In the case of The Losers it felt like we were getting a modern film version of The A-Team, although it was eventually a huge letdown. The Expendables was like a film from the 80s with all of the heavy hitters kicking tons of ass and despite the mediocre script and questionable acting still remained an entertaining film. Then there’s The A-Team which really was a modern day remake of the TV series and wasn’t nearly the disappointment that The Losers ensemble was. The A-Team boasted all the mindless action you could hope for—including a parachuting tank that had Bradley Cooper hanging out on the top of firing a cannon. If that doesn’t paint the picture mindless (and thoughtless) violence, I don’t know what does. SynopsisBuckle up for an adrenaline-fueled thrill ride starring Liam Neeson (Taken), Bradley Cooper (The Hangover), Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (UFC Star), and Sharlto Copley (District 9). Convicted by a military court for a crime they didn’t commit, a daring team of former Special Forces soldiers must utilize their unique talents to break out of prison and tackle their toughest mission yet. It’s going to take guts, split-second timing and an arsenal of explosive weapons...this is a job for The A-Team! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1538 Anyone who knows me understood that calling between 9pm and 10pm on Monday nights would result in a phone without answer. The truth is I’m a bit of a Jack Bauer nut and after jumping into the series during its third season (and subsequently back peddling to watch the first two), I’ve become quite the 24 aficionado. I have a couple t-shirts, one of the figures produced by McFarlane Toys, the soundtracks, obligatory CTU ringtones on my phone (as well as a few others) and, of course, each of the seasons on DVD (and now this eight). I really just love the show and while it definitely became a bit of a shadow of its former self (the first few seasons really felt grounded in reality, while the final ones have taken on more than a few ridiculous scenarios), there’s no denying that it managed to set you on the edge of your seat like no other show on TV. Unfortunately the series is now over; only to be enjoyed by those fans dedicated enough to own the sets on DVD/Blu-Ray. SynopsisDay 8 of the “24” saga is set in New York City, when a tired and jaded Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) is drawn into an assassination threat during a peace-treaty conference between U.S. President Allison Taylor and President Omar Hassan of the fictional Islamic Republic of Kamistan. Bauer learns that Kamistani extremists intend to assassinate President Hassan and strike at America directly with the assistance of the Russian mob. In a suspenseful, real-time struggle, Jack Bauer must use his skills to infiltrate the plotting organization and prevent the start of a third world war! http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1537 Generally when a movie is created solely out of CGI animation, you expect it to be part of the action/adventure genre. Metropia, however, completely defies that expectation with its sole focus on character drama as it delves into a view of a dystopian future post-economic collapse. It’s not exactly the apocalypse, but humanity is a cynical shadow of its formal self as depicted by a world dominated by various shades of gray. Taking several noticeable cues from the dystopian classic “1984,” the future is not only bleak - but very watchful.SynopsisMETROPIA takes place in a not-so-distant but terrifying Europe of the future. The world is running out of oil and the underground train systems have been connected, creating a gigantic subway network beneath Europe. In a suburb of Stockholm, Roger (Vincent Gallo, Buffalo ’66) tries to stay away from the underground because every time he enters, he hears a stranger’s voice in his head. Is someone trying to control him? To help him escape the disturbing web of the Metro, he looks to the mysterious Nina (Juliette Lewis, Whip It) but the further they travel, the deeper he’s involved in a dark conspiracy. This star-studded, “technically innovative” (The New York Times) animated sci-fi thriller also features Alexander Skarsgård (True Blood), Stellan Skarsgård (Mamma Mia!) and Udo Kier (Shadow of the Vampire). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1536 For a film starring John C. Reilly, Marisa Tomei and Jonah Hill you’d think the buzz about it would’ve been louder—at least something more than the dark comedy style trailers that aired on TV. While it was hard to tell just from the trailer what the film was about, it looked as if it would be the usually zany/craziness we’ve come to expect from Reilly and Hill. If you slip this disc into your system though and expect this then be prepared to utterly detest this movie by the time it finishes. If you, for some reason, want to give it a second chance and sit through a repeat viewing now that you know what the film really is about you’ll probably find it to be a much more enjoyable character study than the trailers painted it to be.SynopsisJohn C. Reilly, Jonah Hill and Oscar Winner Marisa Tomei star in this quirky, hilarious story about love, family and cutting the cord. Not-so-recently divorced John (Reilly) thinks he’s finally found the perfect woman when he meets the sweet and sexy Molly (Tomei). There’s just one problem – Molly’s son Cyrus (Hill) clings to his mom like lint on a T-shirt, and he’s not about to let another man come between them. It’s one hysterically awkward moment after another as John and Cyrus fight for the right to be Molly’s #1 man. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1535 Every time that the names Adam McKay and Will Ferrell are combined to create a movie I get excited. Each of their collaborations has yielded quite a bit of enjoyment for me, whether it’s their first big break out with Anchorman (an all-time favorite of mine) or their more recent hits with Step Brothers and Talladega Nights, there really isn’t a film this pair has made that I haven’t greatly enjoyed. Enter The Other Guys, their latest effort with a non-comedic co-star for Ferrell and a bit of a departure from the usual Ferrell/McKay formula in that it mixes in quite a bit of action movie staples in with the usual copious amount of ridiculous humor the duo is known for. The new formula mash up paid off for the studio at least—the film opened to positive reviews and it went on to gross a fair bit of coin—not a lot when it’s $100 million dollar budget is taken into account, but still enough to turn a profit and warrant another foray into McKay and Ferrell’s brains. SynopsisMisfit NYPD detectives Gamble and Hoitz (Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg) are sentenced to life behind the desk. They hate each other and the monotony of their meaningless jobs, as they’re forced to live in the shadow of the two biggest and most badass cops on the force (Samuel L. Jackson and Dwayne Johnson). But when those guys go down for the count, opportunity knocks for Gamble and Hoitz. Stumbling onto what could be one of the biggest crimes in years, can The Other Guys step up their game to solve the case without killing each other and destroying NYC in the process? http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1534 In the world of secret spy films you have James Bond, Jason Bourne and…countless other male leads that probably also have the same initials of J and B. So it only natural that a film about another male spy be released…at least that was the initial plan. After a series of rewrites and leading men dropping in and out of the picture, Salt eventually found its star: Angelina Jolie. Of course a rewrite was in order but the film did eventually happen—much to Sony’s financial pleasure as it went on to make nearly $300 million worldwide. While it wasn’t the smashing success most had hoped or envisioned (especially from the fast paced and thrilling looking trailers), it was still yet another staple in Jolie’s action film belt. SynopsisAngelina Jolie stars in Columbia Pictures' Salt, a contemporary espionage thriller. Before becoming a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt (Jolie) swore an oath to duty, honor, and country. She will prove loyal to these when a defector accuses her of being a Russian sleeper spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture, protect her husband, and stay one step ahead of her colleagues at the CIA. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1533 The Twilight Saga: Eclipse is one of those movies that is in...well...it is in a bit of a rare situation. The Twilight franchise is loved by teenage girls the world over, but reviled by boys. Many are begrudgingly dragged to see each of these films, sitting through what feels like an eternity of ab shots and absurdly stylish hair. The rare few dragged in see the films for what they are, fantasy escapism on par with those old romance novels, but for the younger set. At least that is what you could easily classify the first two films in the franchise as. To my complete and utter shock, this third movie - Eclipse - is something a little different. It has a bit of an edge to it, something we can thank director David Slade for, which actually nicely elevates it over previous franchise installments. Synopsis:In "Eclipse," Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger as Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob — knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella is confronted with the most important decision of her life. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1532 Out of the hundreds of thousands of movies that have been made over the last century there is a wide variety of those that some consider to be bad, horrible, or even utterly intolerable. Some films even leave such a mark that it baffles their wary audience as to how it could have possibly been made. Of course, there are those that end up just so ridiculously awful that it can even get people to do the improbable: to agree on a single thing. Ironically, as popular and lovingly heralded as masterpiece films are, sometimes their stark opposites manage to still find a loyal fanbase ready to bask in the anti-glory. “Troll 2” has managed to not only be recognized over the years as a nearly universal absolute piece of trash, but has even managed to acquire a major following of fans who appreciate just how much of an utter piece of trash it is.SynopsisBEST WORST MOVIE is an affectionate and intoxicatingly fun tribute to the single greatest bad movie ever made and the people responsible for unleashing it on the world. In 1989, a group of unknown Utah actors starred in what would be crowned the worst movie of all time: Troll 2. After two decades of running from this cinematic disaster, the cast can no longer hide from the legion of followers that celebrate them for their ineptitude. BEST WORST MOVIE, directed by Troll 2’s once-disgraced child star, Michael Paul Stephenson, unravels the improbable story of a sunny, small-town Alabama dentist-turned-cult-movie-icon and a self-deluded Italian filmmaker who struggles to come to grips with his internationally revered cinematic failure. The result is a hilarious and tender offbeat journey that pays homage to lovers of bad movies and the people who make them, while investigating a deeper story about the strange nature of celebrity, the catharsis of redemption and the humanity that exists in making even the worst movie ever made. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1531 I don't really think The Sound of Music needs an introduction, does it? Is there anyone out there who doesn't know this movie, even in the vaguest of terms? A smash hit when it was originally released over forty years ago, won a nice helping of awards and, ever since, has been a staple on both home video and television, there's hardly a soul out there who doesn't know what The Sound of Music is all about. Even if you've never seen the movie, it's been lampooned enough that, well, you likely already know it without realizing it. But now that Fox Home Entertainment has turned out a pretty stunning Blu-ray, there's no better time than now to be introduced, or perhaps reacquainted, with this prestigious motion picture.SynopsisExperience the world's most beloved family film as never before. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment toasts the 45th anniversary of the five-time Academy Award®-winning The Sound Of Music with this new highly-anticipated Blu-ray Disc . The film adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical, based on this true-life story, features Julie Andrews lighting up the screen as Maria, a spirited young woman who leaves the convent to bring love and music to the home of Captain von Trapp and his seven children. Her charm and songs soon win the hearts of the children and their father but when Nazi Germany unites with Austria, Maria is forced to attempt a daring escape with her new family. Directed by Robert Wise and co-starring Christopher Plummer, the film garnered five Oscars including Best Picture and Best Director. A heartwarming story full of cherished songs such as “My Favorite Things,” “Sixteen Going On Seventeen,” “Edelweiss” and the title song, the film graces six different Top 100 lists by the American Film Institute including Musicals, Songs and Movies. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1530 Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 -- the magical, animated musical masterpiece and the contemporary classic inspired by it -- debut in highly anticipated Blu-ray High Definition and DVD 2-Movie Collection Special Editions on November 30. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is opening the Disney vault to be able to present these two films that broke the boundaries of imagination in the highest quality possible. The Fantasia and Fantasia 2000: 2-Movie Collection Special Edition will be available in a 4-disc Blu-ray Combo Pack and a 2-Disc DVD for a very limited time only. The Blu-ray transformation of Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 will reveal the magic, music and majesty of both films as never before experienced, with stateof-the-art picture restoration of the original Fantasia and pristine 7.1 Digital Theater System Hi-Def Surround Sound. The Blu-ray combo pack is a tremendous value featuring, in addition to the two films in two different formats, a wealth of bonus features.SynopsisThe dreams and visions of Walt Disney come to life in Fantasia, which blends music and film magic into an exhilarating movie-going experience. Unforgettable images are brought to life by some of the world’s best music, and highlighted by the comedy of Mickey Mouse as a troublemaking sorcerer’s apprentice, along with the beauty of winged fairies and cascading snowflakes, the majesty of Noah’s ark and even plump hippos performing ballet in tutus. Motivated by his uncle’s foresight, Roy Disney continued the magic with Fantasia 2000 which begins where its predecessor left off. There are seven completely new segments, and viewers watch a bustling Depression-era metropolis in the style of Al Hirschfeld’s famous cartoons, a flock of flamingos with slapstick yo-yo talents, an ark full of animals gathered by Donald Duck as Noah’s first mate, and musical life breathed into a family of flying humpback whales. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1529 Although it wasn’t the first (and won’t be the last) film to use Muse’s “Uprising” song, Knight and Day seemed to utilize it better than anyone else I’ve seen. Granted that was just for the trailer for the film, but it got you pumped up and ready to see it; mixed with the one-liners and action packed sequences, the trailer really got you excited for the film even if it did just look like a mindless action flick that happened to have Cruise and Diaz in the drivers seats. Although it fared poorly in the states, overseas the film was a fairly big success and when all is said and done it more than doubled its budget back in profits. Although considering the amount of publicity that the film created worldwide it’s not surprising it pulled in as much as it did. SynopsisBig screen superstars Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz come together in this fun, action packed thrill ride that breaks all the rules. When a small-town girl named June (Diaz) meets a mysterious stranger, she thinks she's found the man of her dreams. But she soon discovers he's a fugitive super-spy, who thrusts her into a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase that spans the globe. As the bullets and sparks fly, June must decide if her "Knight" in shining armor is a dangerous traitor or the love of her life. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1528 On November 30th Disney/Buena Vista Entertainment released a trio of documentaries that delved not only into the earliest of Disney’s years but also into the later years that were fret with tension, drama and conflict. Whether it’s Looking at the 80s-90s era Disney with Waking Sleeping Beauty, going back to 1941 with the US asking Walt Disney to be a cultural ambassador to South America in Walt & El Grupo, or moving forward into the 1960’s to see the story of the Sherman Brother’s in The Boys, there’s plenty of history to be drudged up and expounded upon in these documentaries and with each one packing in a great wealth of knowledge, any Disney fan will find themselves with a few less hours left in the day when they get their hands on these documentaries. Synopsis – Waking Sleeping BeautyWaking Sleeping Beauty is no fairy tale. It’s a true story about the renaissance that took place between 1984 and 1994 at the fabled Walt Disney Animation Studios and how Disney animation regained its magic with a staggering output of hits including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Lion King and more. Available on DVD November 30 from Buena Vista Home Entertainment, the 86-minute documentary features the people who were actually there — Michael Eisner, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Roy E. Disney, John Lasseter and others. Directed by Don Hahn, who produced some of the period’s biggest hits, and produced by Peter Schneider, who led the animation group during this amazing period and later became studio chairman, Waking Sleeping Beauty gives viewers an unprecedented look at the conflict, drama and tension that ushered in a decade of unparalleled Disney creativity. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1527 Experience the action of an immortal’s journey through time and space like never before with Highlander and Highlander 2, each coming to individual 1080P High Definition Blu-ray Disc for the first time ever! The explosive beginning to one of the most popular film franchises of all time blasts onto Blu-ray packed with special features including deleted scenes from each film. The Highlander Blu-ray features the director’s cut of the film and audio commentary with director Russell Mulcahy and producers Peter S. Davis and William N. Panzer, while the Highlander 2 disc adds enhanced and re-imagined visual effects, four featurettes, an alternate ending and more!SynopsisOne of the most beloved sci-fi action-adventure series in film and TV history, Highlander is an epic tale of immortality starring Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery. When Scottish clansman Connor MacLeod (Lambert) discovers his true identity as part of a legion of immortals, his journey spans the world and centuries before finally landing him in modern day New York. MacLeod is unfortunately set to face other immortals in a showdown where only one can survive. Featuring music by the legendary band Queen, Highlander is a modern classic and “A truly heroic stomp through time and space” (BBC). http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1526 In his short career, Jean-Michel Basquiat was a phenomenon. He became notorious for his graffiti art under the moniker Samo in the late 1970s on the Lower East Side scene, sold his first painting to Deborah Harry for $200 and became best friends with Andy Warhol. Appreciated by both the art cognoscenti and the public, Basquiat was launched into international stardom. However, soon his cult status began to override the art that had made him famous in the first place.SynopsisDirector Tamra Davis pays homage to her friend in this definitive documentary, but also delves into Basquiat as an iconoclast. His dense, bebop-influenced neoexpressionist work emerged while minimalist, conceptual art was the fad; as a successful black artist, he was constantly confronted by racism and misconceptions. Much can be gleaned from insider interviews and archival footage, but it is Basquiat’s own words and work that powerfully convey the mystique and allure of both the artist and the man. Featuring interviews with Julian Schnabel, Larry Gagosian, Bruno Bischofberger, Tony Shafrazi, Fab 5 Freddy, Jeffrey Deitch, Glenn O’Brien, Maripol, Kai Eric, Nicholas Taylor, Fred Hoffmann, Michael Holman, Diego Cortez, Annina Nosei, Suzanne Mallouk, and Rene Ricard, among many others. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1525 Sometimes, life comes between us and our dreams. And sometimes, we are fortunate enough to be reunited. Overflowing with the talent and enthusiasm of the competitors and with the sound of their spectacular music, THEY CAME TO PLAY reminds us all of the passion that burns within us.SynopsisMulti-award winning THEY CAME TO PLAY focuses on the International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs (hosted by the Van Cliburn Foundation), which gathers together 75 of the world’s best amateur pianists for one week of intense competition and camaraderie. Candid interviews offer a glimpse into the lives of the competitors, who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and professions. All have struggled to balance their music and their ordinary lives—some overcoming extraordinary challenges—and now, all hope to make years of dedication pay off in the performance of a lifetime. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1524 There are few directors that demand my immediate attention, no matter the project they’re on. I’ll spare the analogies to other directors and their films and just cut straight to the chase: Christopher Nolan is one such director whose works I would watch no matter what. There really isn’t a single one of his directorial efforts that I haven’t enjoyed (although Insomnia is a bit of an odd-one-out, simply because it just doesn’t really have the usual “hook” that Nolan’s works often do) and being a huge Batman fan his foray into that universe has been nothing short of overwhelmingly positive for me. In-between his Batman efforts, however, he has spawned some other films; after Batman Begins he directed The Prestige and after The Dark Knight it was clear that his next film would have to be a big one to follow the ridiculous momentum that that film brought forth across the globe. Nolan delivered with Inception, which was in part successful simply because of how original and grandiose it was; the few who criticized it called it pretentious or unbelievable, but those who allowed themselves to get fully enveloped in Nolan’s mind were treated to one of the most satisfying cinematic experiences in recent years. SynopsisAcclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan directs an international cast in this sci-fi actioner that travels around the globe and into the world of dreams. Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) is the best there is at extraction: stealing valuable secrets inside the subconscious during the mind’s vulnerable dream state. His skill has made him a coveted player in industrial espionage but also has made him a fugitive and cost him dearly. Now he may get a second chance if he can do the impossible: inception, planting an idea rather than stealing one. If they succeed, Cobb and his team could pull off the perfect crime. But no planning or expertise can prepare them for a dangerous enemy that seems to predict their every move. An enemy only Cobb could have seen coming. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1523 Sometimes, to know where you’re going, you need to remember where you’ve been. Multi-faceted musician/vocalist Phil Collins put this statement into action when he took the stage this past June to perform an array of classic hits. The latest gem from Eagle Rock’s stunning live DVD collection is Phil Collins: Going Back – Live At Roseland Ballroom, NYC. This was one of several concerts supporting the release of his Going Back album (Atlantic), which also serves up renditions of these Motown-era classics. Touted as “A bloody lovely show” by Time Out New York, this fantastic evening reminded all in attendance of the invigorating and timeless power of this music. SynopsisOn this hot summer night at New York’s famed Roseland Ballroom, Phil Collins treats the packed house to a revue of his favorite soul and Motown tunes. On this two-hour plus set of over 25 songs, “backed by a killer 18-piece band…Collins got most everybody in the Roseland ballroom dancing,” states Rolling Stone Magazine. Faithfully recreating the songs he cherishes, like “Dancing In The Street,” “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone,” and “My Girl” he honored the music with authenticity. Bassist Bob Babbitt, and guitarists Eddie Willis and Ray Monette, of Motown’s original backing band The Funk Brothers, along with two members of Genesis’ live band, drummer Chester Thompson and guitarist Darryl Stuermer, also contribute to Collin’s musical celebration. Additionally, the DVD contains some behind-the scenes footage of the concert. Bonus features include an interview with Phil and rehearsal footage for the live shows with his commentary. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1522 Commemorating a sterling 50-year career of beloved music, Eagle Rock Entertainment will proudly release In Our Own Time, a revealing look at the history of The Bee Gees. On In Our Own Time, brand new interviews with Barry and Robin Gibb, as well as Maurice Gibb shortly before his 2003 passing, tell the compelling tale of their family business. With a half-century of memories, and the amazing video clips to go with it, the Gibb brothers go through it all, and no stone is left unturned. Interweaved with live performances, TV and film clips, and early, rare videos of the band, this 116-minute documentary lavishly illustrates The Bee Gees experience.SynopsisThe Bee Gees remarkable candor on the disparity between their incredible successes and their heartbreaking lows make In Our Own Time essential and dramatic viewing even if one is only a casual fan. Robin, Barry, and Maurice Gibb offer revealing and personal commentary on each step of the journey: their burgeoning childhood stardom in their native Australia, their first flush of success in London, the break-up and inevitable reunion, the phantasmagoria of fame ricocheting from Saturday Night Fever, and their work as songwriters, penning tunes not only for themselves, but Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Kenny Rogers, and Dolly Parton. It is, in essence, the history of pop music itself spanning the ‘60s, ‘70s and beyond. The DVD ends on a note of hope: Barry and Robin singing anew those classic songs again for the camera, leaving the door open to more Bee Gees chapters. Most profound is the way the life and death of Andy Gibb is treated. We learn he desperately wanted to be a Bee Gee and his brothers wanted him in...but life has a cruel streak. This chapter gives the DVD its gravitas. Barry and Robin have never really explored this with any degree of finality. Until now. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1521 Starting a franchise that lives within the heart of the definition of “cult classic,” George Miller’s directorial debut “Mad Max” takes us for a surprisingly leisurely rather than high octane cruise through a crime-ridden dystopia. Mel Gibson, a mere unheard of at this time, plays Max Rockatansky (rock a tan sky?) as one of the few people still upholding law and order in the “future.” Commonly described as post-apocalyptic, this is more present-apocalyptic as the film depicts being on the brink of the downfall of the civilized world. Interestingly, even though it did fairly well internationally upon its release, it still remains relatively unheard of to this day along with its two sequels, both of which further delve into the destruction of civilization as they take us from mere dystopia to being truly post-apocalyptic.SynopsisNow viewers can experience the thrilling dystopian action film with an all-new Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack. Special features include filmmaker commentary and the documentary “Mad Max: The Film Phenomenon,” featuring interviews with the original crew and film experts. The new release also features the very popular original Australian audio track in addition to the American dubbed track. Considered one of the best films of 1979, MAD MAX garnered three Australian Film Institute (AFI) Awards for editing, sound and musical score. The film was also nominated by the AFI for Best Film, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor (Hugh Keays-Byrne). In the ravaged near future, a savage motorcycle gang rules the road. Terrorizing innocent civilians while tearing up the streets, the ruthless gang laughs in the face of a police force hell-bent on stopping them. But they underestimate one officer: Max Rockatansky (Gibson). And when the bikers brutalize Max's best friend and family, they send him into a mad frenzy that leaves him seeking revenge, which is the only thing left in the world for Max to live for. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1520 The Venture Bros. may be one of the most daring and original shows to ever exist. Not only does it go on extremely long breaks that make me want to punch a walrus, but it also manages to change itself up every season. Each time they make a major change you think “nah, it won’t last, it’s just a ploy.” Soon you’re into the next season and you realize it’s sticking. The boys aren’t going to be kept perpetually young. They graduate from high school and explore their own collegial careers. On top of that you change up the Brock dynamic and replace him with Sergeant Hatred and…well, lets just say that the creators were being genial when they started out slow by altering The Monarch’s lineup before they started futzing with the main cast. What it all boils down to is The Venture Bros. is not just a daring show for changing things up on a regular basis, but also changing things up for the better. Never has one of these alterations in character storylines or series storylines ever backfired and while that is fantastic for the fans, it must be kind of nerve wracking to keep up that tradition for the creators. SynopsisQuestions are answered and truths are revealed. Learn how Henchman 21 copes with life without 24. See what happens when Brock and the Venture family are forced to part ways. Discover the final fate of H.E.L.P.eR. And all the while, the balance of the free world hangs in the hands of Dean Venture, who must kill Hitler. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1516 Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment debuts its first Blu-ray™ 3D release with Academy Award®-winning director Robert Zemeckis’ (Best Director, Forrest Gump in 1994) unique interpretation of Charles Dickens’ beloved tale, A Christmas Carol, starring Jim Carrey (Yes Man, Horton Hears a Who, Bruce Almighty) as multiple characters including the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Yet to Come. Rounding out the stellar cast are Gary Oldman (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix), Collin Firth (Love Actually, The Accidental Husband, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason), Bob Hoskins (Who Framed Roger Rabbit) and Robin Wright (State of Play and Forrest Gump).SynopsisFrom Walt Disney Pictures comes the magical retelling of Charles Dickens’ beloved tale – Disney’s A Christmas Carol, the high-flying, heartwarming adventure for the whole family. When three ghosts take penny-pinching Scrooge on an eye-opening journey, he discovers the true meaning of Christmas – but he must act on it before it’s too late. Complete with spirited bonus features, this exhilarating and touching Disney classic is destined to be part of a family holiday tradition, adding sparkle and heart to all Christmases yet to come. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1513 Spectacular. That's the Young Justice movie “Independence Day” in a single word. Gorgeous animation, great characters, a tight script, beautiful characters designs, solid performances, nary a hair out of place here. It is unbelievable how confident, how precise this show is right out of the gate. The only downside I can find here is a predictable one – the wait for Young Justice to start airing regular in early 2011. After this one-hour movie, laced with enough subplots and characters to keep any series going for quite a long time, it's very apparent the creators here have a long-form plan in action for what looks to be a new benchmark for super hero animation.Synopsis:In Young Justice, being a teenager means proving yourself over and over — to peers, parents, teachers, mentors and, ultimately, to yourself. But what if you're not just a normal teenager? What if you're a teenage super hero? How much harder will it be to prove yourself in a world of super powers, super villains and super secrets? Are you ready to come of age in such a world? Are you ready for life or death rites of passage? Are you ready to join the ranks of the great heroes and prove you're worthy of the Justice League? That's exactly what the members of Young Justice — Robin, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Superboy, Miss Martian and Artemis — will found out … whether they have what it takes to be a proven hero. In the Young Justice premiere, Robin, Speedy, Aqualad and Kid Flash are finally granted access to the headquarters of the Justice League. But when that access turns out to be little more than a glorified backstage pass, Speedy walks, and the other three sidekicks go on a mission of their own…to Project Cadmus, where they make a startling discovery… http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1512 What really is there to say about The Sorcerer’s Apprentice? Though it wasn’t universally panned it came very close and was it not for the overseas box office the film would’ve lost out on quite a large portion of its budget. Thankfully Disney was able to recoup any losses (at least in terms of production, who knows what the marketing campaign cost) and the rest of us can continue to be blissfully unaware of the films strange ability to both be eye-rollingly dull and entertaining at the same time. It’s definitely not the worst film I’ve ever seen (not by a long shot), but man did it all just seem so…superfluous. SynopsisA fun, modern-day adventure follows Dave (JAY BARUCHEL), just an average college student, or so it appears, until the sorcerer Balthazar Blake (NICOLAS CAGE) recruits him as his reluctant protégé and gives him a crash course in the art and science of magic. As he prepares for a battle against the forces of darkness in modern-day Manhattan, Dave finds it is going to take all of the courage he can muster to survive his training, save the city and get the girl as he becomes THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1511 Hollywood’s relentless strive to stave off originality in favor of rehashing old ideas, whether they were already successful or not, has brought many oddities back to television audiences. This time around we have the singular character titled show, “V,” about aliens that do away with the mystery and suspense as first contact has so often been depicted and simply come right and say “We’re here and we’re que- quite happy to meet you!” V, explained within the show as being short for Visitor in reference to the aliens, not only comes from an show that ran for only a year, but that was even spawned by two preceding mini-series. Oddly, the mini-series are heralded as the better ventures, while the 1984-1985 TV show is generally regarded as unnecessary and vastly inferior - especially since the mini-series had already wrapped up the storyline. So, the question is, did they really need to visit again?SynopsisThey arriVe. Earth’s first alien encounter begins when huge motherships appear over 29 major cities. The visitors – the Vs – are human-like beings who know our languages and bring awesome gifts of healing and technology. People everywhere welcome them as saviors. But a fledgling resistance is on the rise, determined to reveal the shocking truth. Among the underground cadre: an FBI Counter Terrorism Agent who uncovers a terror cell no one ever expected…and finds that her teenage son is drawn to the beauty and promise of the Vs. Get in the know with the amazing first season of the series that combines sci-fi thrills with the uncertainties of the post-9/11 world. Here. Now. AdVenture begins. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1510 Remember the 1980s, in particular the plethora of awesome actions movies that decade birthed? Well, The Expendables looks to make you remember with a cast (well, most of the cast) and a plot straight out of that most reviled (by many) decade. Sylvester Stallone headlines this film, as star, director, co-writer and producer, and brings his unique flair for unflinching violence and testosterone-driven antics, likely the reason why this film ended up being a surprise hit toward the end of summer 2010. And now, for all those action-lovers, here's your chance to check out a truly action flick that harkens back to some of the best.Synopsis:Co-written and directed by Sylvester Stallone from a screenplay by David Callaham and Sylvester Stallone and story by David Callaham, The Expendables follows a team of hardened mercenaries – including Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Eric Roberts, Randy Couture, Steve Austin, Terry Crews and Mickey Rourke – who are sent on what becomes a suicide mission to overthrow a ruthless dictator.They are the Expendables: leader and mastermind Barney Ross (Stallone), former SAS blade expert Lee Christmas (Statham), hand-to-hand combat specialist Yin Yang (Li), long barrel weapons specialist Hale Caesar (Crews), demolitions expert Toll Road (Couture) and precision sniper Gunner Jensen (Lundgren). Living life in the fringes of the law, these hardened mercenaries take on what appears to be a routine assignment: a covert, CIA-funded operation to infiltrate the South American country of Vilena and overthrow its ruthless dictator General Garza (David Zayas). But when their job is revealed to be a suicide mission, the men are faced with a deadly choice, one that might redeem their souls…or destroy their brotherhood forever. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1509 Certain shows seem to only grow in quality over time. The number is few, of course, because no show is immune to the eventual wearing down, even if it starts out strong. In Bones case, the show started out a little rough and breezed long through three additional seasons effortlessly. The shows mixture of humor, drama, and superb character interactions are what keeps it so alive and fresh feeling. With this seasons continued rotating list of lab attendants to help replace Eric Millegan’s character who got written out of the show (although he does make another re-appearance in this fifth season), the show managed to stay as fresh as ever, although it certainly hit a few rocky holes along it way. SynopsisFaced with gruesome murders, FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth has teamed up with the world’s leading Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan of the Jeffersonian Institute. Bones is the rational scientist and Booth the intuitive detective, and though they often butt heads, they make the perfect team when it comes to catching criminals. With a team of scientists behind them, Bones and Booth make sure no crime goes unsolved. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1508 Though the show is now over six years old and shows no real signs of ever coming back (star Ian McShane even remarked that “Deadwood is dead” in an interview in 2009), Deadwood will forever (for the time being at least) remain as one of HBO’s best shows. Though it turned many off with its non-period dialect (e.g., F-bombs galore) and a more cynical and darker take on the Wild West, the series nonetheless found enough of an audience to warrant a collection of three seasons. While it wasn’t a show I watched as it aired, watching it all now back-to-back-to-back for the first time years after it’s been off made me realize that it doesn’t matter when you watch a TV show—if it’s good, it will forever be good. And Deadwood fits that bill exactly. SynopsisThe Black Hills of South Dakota. Witness the birth of an American frontier town - and the ruthless power struggle between its just and unjust pioneers. In an age of plunder and greed, the richest gold strike in American history draws a mob of restless misfits to an outlaw settlement where everything - and everyone - has a price. The settlers, ranging from an ex-lawman to a scheming saloon owner to the legendary Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, share a constant restlessness of spirit, and survive by any means necessary. Welcome to Deadwood...a hell of a place to make your fortune. http://www.wfdvdreport.com?action=fullnews&id=1507 Believe it or not, but you can see the progression of this series from the first episode to the season finale. Jokers become tighter, plots a bit looser, and the series in general a little less…hands on. The Super Hero Squad Show felt like a very “by committee” series when it first kicked off. Enjoyable, yes, but a bit stiff and somewhat forced at times, both in terms of script and animation quality. However, as the show rockets toward its two-part season, The Super Hero Squad Show becomes quite the zany adventure. Not as solid or consistent as Batman: The Brave and The Bold, but still a friendly, all-ages take on Marvel’s mightiest heroes.Synopsis:When the greatest 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…Super Hero Squad. It’s no small job protecting Super Hero City from the wild, weird (& even wacky) villainy of VillainVille’s infamous baddies…but Iron Man, Wolverine, the Hulk, the Silver Surfer, Thor and the Falcon are always up for the job. Shouting "Hero Up!" as they rush into battle, the Squad must keep Dr. Doom’s allies from gathering pieces of the Infinity Sword. Otherwise, Doom will use the Sword to rule the universe! Luckily, the City is filled will Marvel Super Hero guest-stars to help out in a pinch. These brave heroes totally deliver the action – but with plenty of humor on the side. "Hero Up!" with The Super Hero Squad – The Complete First Season!