Showing posts with label Warner Home Video. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Warner Home Video. Show all posts

Thursday, October 24, 2013

World's Greatest Super Friends: Season 4


World's Greatest Super Friends! (Season 4) on DVD Finally gets a Wide Retail Release!
For those fans who missed out on the exclusive Season 4 release of "World's Greatest Super Friends!" from Target, the DVD is now available to order from Amazon (and other retail stores) for a November 12th release date.

Season 4 is comprised of 8 thirty-minute cartoons (about 22 minutes without commercials):

1. "Rub Three Times For Disaster" (Original air date 9/22/79)
2. "Lex Luthor Strikes Back" (Original air date 9/29/79)
3. "Space Knights of Camelon" (Original air date 10/06/79)
4. "The Lord of Middle Earth" (Original air date 10/13/79)
5. "Universe of Evil" (Original air date 10/20/79)
6. "Terror At 20,000 Fathoms" (Original air date 10/27/29)
7. "The Super Friends Meet Frankenstein" (Original air date 11/03/79)
8. "The Planet of OZ" (Original air date 11/10/79)

(1 disc) Total running time approximately 3 hours.

Having already purchased this item from Target, I have to say that the picture and sound...
The Classics and the Super Friends...
This particular season of the Super Friends, out of it's entire 1973-1985 run on Saturday morning, had for so many years been held back from DVD release for whatever reason. A lot of us felt copyright issues had a big influence over the lack of 1979's episodes being available. Apparently the powers that be are fully aware of how sought after this season is that the release has gone through a rather unique process. Available as a Target exclusive several months ago it's now being made available for pre-order on Amazon for a November release (a month AFTER the DVD release of the 1981 short episodes titled "Legacy of Super Powers").

**SPOILERS ARE ABUNDANT**

I love all the episodes! I can't really pick out an absolute favorite but I will lean heavily on the episode titled "Universe of Evil". It's just such a drastically different kind of episode from those have come before and those that came after with the possible exception being the 1985 episode, "The Death of...

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The Right Stuff (30th Anniversary Edition) [Blu-ray]


The Greatest American Epic
The fact that "The Right Stuff" lost the Oscar for best picture to "Terms Of Endearment" is beyond me; this movie should have won. The fact that it wasn't a hit at the box office back in 1983 is also beyond me. We are talking about what I think it's the best American epic in all the sense of the word.
It's strange that a Venezuelan-born like me should talk about a movie like this, but I feel that "The Right Stuff" should have been a classic -well, it is for me. The story of the "Mercury" astronauts is portrayed marvelously by Philip Kaufman's direction, showcased beautifully by Caleb Deschanel's stylish photography, and supported by an incredible cast including Scott Glenn, Ed Harris, Barbara Hershey, Sam Shepard, Pamela Reed, Kim Stanley, and Veronica Cartwright.
In fact, I remember when I was watching that movie at home, and my late father asked me if a man that appeared on the screen was astronaut John Glenn because he looked...
Pushing the Envelope of Space!
'The Right Stuff' is one of the most glorious adventure films ever made, a story of incredible heroism, poignant romance, gripping drama, and broad humor...and amazingly, it has actually happened in our lifetimes!

This is a tale of test pilots, 'pushing the envelope', proving the sound barrier couldn't constrain mankind's reach for space. Leading the way is plain-speaking Chuck Yeager (portrayed by Sam Shepard with Gary Cooper-like charm), a Beeman's gum-chewing cowboy with a passion for his feisty wife (the beautiful Barbara Hershey), and hot planes. Not even a broken rib could hold him back when an opportunity to fly the X-1 was offered. His record-breaking flight could fill a movie by itself...and this is just the BEGINNING of the story!

Jumping ahead a few years, Yeager is joined by a new breed of test pilots, whose total love of flight challenges their relationships, and is the true measure of how they define themselves. Among them are 'Gordo' Cooper (Dennis...
It takes more than rocket fuel to attain escape velocity
Weighing in at three+ hours, "The Right Stuff" gives us a fantastic insight into the embryonic stages of humanity's journey into space. It is a personal disappointment to me that our species hasn't done more with the opportunities that space travel has given us.

Based on Tom Wolfe's history of the space program, the film takes us through the early stages of American space exploration. It starts with Yeager's historic speed record when he broke the sound barrier and finishes at the end of the Mercury program. For this reason I think "Apollo 13" makes a good sequel to "The Right Stuff" as it concerns itself with the subsequent Apollo program.

The cast is outstanding and they mostly offer strong performances. For much of the film Sam Shepard gets center stage in his role as Chuck Yeager. However since Yeager was never allowed the opportunity to join the space program the second half of the film focuses on the seven...
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Secret Life of Walter Mitty


Not a Review, a Plea
This has always been a lifelong favorite of mine. The cast includes a sinister Boris Karloff. But, did you know that Boris Karloff played not only a sinister doctor, but also was made up by Jack Pierce as the Frankenstein Monster! That footage of Karloff as the Monster, was actually filmed yet removed prior to release! The scene took place in an office setting with the Monster trying to operate a typewriter. This film fan's dream, is to see this Technicolor footage placed in the supplementary section of the DVD release,at the very least. Hopefully the powers that control the wonderful films of Sam Goldwyn, will give us all that cinematic gift.
Danny Kaye at his best!
Possibly the best film that showcases Danny Kaye's many talents, but would love to see a blu ray release for it instead.

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Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Man of Steel (Blu-ray+DVD+UltraViolet Combo Pack)


Nolan Plot and Snyder Action Makes for the Best Movie This Year
The "Man of Steel" movie is both action and plot heavy, dealing with complex spiritual issues as well as what it means to be human. On the other hand, the action is heavy-handed, with punches, bullets, and other weaponry being thrown at people on a regular basis. This combination of depth and intensity creates a powerful film, both visually as well as in theme. The performance of the story was breathtaking. As expected, the visuals were stunning; the special effects were phenomenally crisp and the scope of the camera was often wide, presenting the scenery itself as a spectacle. The acting was exceptional as well. Shannon's Zod was angry, driven, and resourceful, everything a good soldier is meant to be. His lines were powerful and his intentions and thoughts were practically visible on his face as he acted. Cavill's Superman also performed exceptionally. Each line was delivered with honesty to the character. His part was not really dialogue heavy, but his role was emotionally...
Man of Steel...
Let me say right away that I am fan, so if you imagine that there may be some bias about this film, you'll be right. As much as I enjoy the work done by Zack Snyder and Christopher Nolan I am, first and foremost, a fan of Superman the character. Beyond the super powers and god like awe that surrounds the character, he is inherently a symbol for the potential good of the human race. He represents the best of both his worlds and acts as a guide for others. Superman is often referred to as the "constant boy scout". It's easier to understand when you truly see the kind of temperament and control he exhibits on a nearly constant basis. When faced with adversity how easy would it be for him to destroy his opponent in the blink of an eye, and yet he refrains from doing so. He is a symbol for all that we can achieve, good and bad. In some ways he is the embodiment of hope; hope for the future, hope for the world, and hope in our own personal lives. So, when I say that I am a fan I...
Man as a human, of Steel as a Hero
Good movie. It's not only about comic book heroes anymore. It's just like with Batman Begins. How would the real world deal to if aliens might finally be among us. Man of Steel is not about spandex heroes with superpowers any more. It's about humanity, power, responsibilty and how to deal with all of it. There is a lot to think and discuss about after watching this movie, and that's exactly what you do after you saw any good film that is not just a popcorn movie.

Now, how are the filmmakers going to up the ante for a sequel. Well, it is not about upping it anymore. To understand why, you must read this review from a clear perspective. This film, just like all of Nolan's previous ones, is not only about flashy visuals but more bout it's content and how we react to that content. That's why the Nolan - Snyder team up is the perfect marriage to present the new Man of Steel.

Clark Kent is what he is because of his alien heritage AND his parents rising. He's Clark...
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Monday, October 21, 2013

Bishop's Wife [Blu-ray]


Heaven Sent......
This review refers to the MGM(2001) DVD edition of "The Bishop's Wife"(1947)......

No Classic Holiday collection should be without this joyous tale. It stars a devine Cary Grant,a lovely Loretta Young, and a "doubting" David Niven.

As Christmas approaches, Bishop Henry Broughm is feeling the pressure of raising money to build a Cathedral. The money is out there, a wealthy woman has volunteered to contribute what's needed to complete the task. But...there's a catch....it must be done her way..and Henry must decide whether to accept and put his principles aside or decline and have no Cathedral. He is so preoccupied with this problem that Julia, his wife feels she is losing him. Henry prays for guidance...and it arrives..in the form of one dapper angel..."Dudley".

Dudley has got his work cut out for him with this asignment. Henry is a tough case. But along the way of trying to enlighten the Bishop of the joys of life(not to mention all the hungry people...
A Gentle Classic
This genlte film, based on Robert Nathan's fine story, has the warmth of a cup of hot cider by the fireplace during a cold December day. There is something quiet and magical about it, like the hush of the world when it snows. Cary Grant and Loretta Young are a joy to watch together, their easy chemistry as welcome as popcorn balls and candy canes.

Directed by Henry Koster, with some nice photography from Gregg Toland, the screenplay by Robert E. Sherwood and Leonardo Bercovici captures perfectly the sentimental fantasy feel of all Robert Nathan's fine work. Cary Grant convinced producer Samuel Goldwyn to let him portray the role of Dudley rather than the bishop, and after seeing this film, it would be difficult to imagine it any other way.

Cary Grant always made everything look easy, but just how much work went into that illusion is exemplified by this film. Before shooting began, Grant could not ice skate, play the harp, or speak any French. By the time "The...
A Family Favorite!
This film is one of the best of the Christmas Classics. The Bishop's Wife tells a story of an angel (Cary Grant) who comes down to earth in answer to a busy Bishop's (David Niven) prayer. The angel helps the Bishop learn to adjust his priorities and comes close to falling in love with Julia, the Bishop's wife (Loretta Young). The movie includes a lovely Skating/ Dance scene that defies description. Make this movie a tradition for your family this year.
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The Best Years of Our Lives [Blu-ray]


Billy Wilder said it best...
** UPDATE: This newly re-issued (January 2013) product offers NO improvement in picture or sound quality from previous DVD releases (Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo). Beyond cosmetic changes to the box - this newest edition brings back the 1997 HBO Video interviews with Virginia Mayo and Teresa Wright and improves the look of the English subtitles - which were all left off the MGM DVD release in 2000. This 2013 release is a "must" ONLY if you want everything previously released - on one disc. Remember, the 1997 HBO Video issue was a "flipper" - part 1 of the movie and special features were on side one, part 2 of the movie was on side two. The 2000 MGM issue had NO English subtitles and NO special features other than an old trailer. The Samuel Goldwyn (2013) issue has the entire movie, subtitles and all the aforementioned special features on one side of the disc, with "no flipping" required. Still waiting for a Blu-Ray release for this outrageously neglected classic. (Older review about the...
A poignant drama that provides insight into post-WW2 America
"The Best Years of Our Lives" is a compelling dramatic masterpiece, and certainly one of the best films ever made. It's not as well known today as other pieces from the period, such as "Casablanca" or "Citizen Kane", but it is nevertheless a classic that deserves ranking with those same films.
This film paints a picture of the struggles of World War II servicemen that they faced AFTER the war was over. It was a more personal struggle of men returning home after being away for many years, and after experiencing horrors that their loved ones could never fully understand. They return home as changed people, and come home to changed lives.
The story of such a homecoming experienced by thousands of men after World War II is told from the perspective of three fictional characters: Captain Fred Derry, a bombadier in the Army Air Corps (Dana Andrews), Sergeant Al Stevenson, an Army infantryman (Frederich March), and Seamen Homer Parrish(Harold Russell). They happen to meet on the...
Comparisons of the two DVDs
The 4-star rating reflects the quality of the DVD only, not the movie itself (which is a 5-star). The picture quality of this DVD (the 2000 MGM-released version) is poor, much below the average expected from a DVD. The picture quality of the 1997 HBO-released DVD is slightly better. However, the 1997 version sometimes has annoying black lines running vertically in the middle of the screen. This 1997 release is the one that people complain about having to turn the disc over around the middle of the movie. Both the 1997 and 2000 releases are Full Screen format (contrary to what Amazon.com says about the 1997 release). Considering that the 1997 release costs about twice the price of the 2000 release, you would be better off spending your money on the 2000 release.
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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Extended Edition with Limited EditionAmazon Exclusive Bilbo/Gollum Statue (Blu-ray + UltraViolet)


Wait until Chrismas 2013
Almost clicked the order button, but due to my love of the extended versions of the original trilogy, I decided to do a little research before I made that mistake. in doing so, I discovered that the Blue-Ray/DVD set for release on March 19th will contain only the theatrical version of the movie. Warner Bros is including a teaser trailer containing Dragon Smaug with this version in order to entice people to buy it. The extended version of 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' will be released in time for Christmas 2013. As with the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Warner Bros. is trying to stick it to the consumer again by hoping people will buy both versions. Sorry, WB... I can wait another nine months. In the meantime, I'll rent a copy to satisfy my urge to see it sooner.
The Hobbit Amazon Exclusive Extended Edition
Since Amazon doesn't list the release date (11/05/13) or have the special features detailed, here you go:

-The Filmmakers' Commentary - Director/writer/producer Peter Jackson and writer/co-producer Philippa Boyens provide their perspective and stories on creating the first film.

-New Zealand: Home of Middle-Earth - From Matamata to Queenstown, travel with Peter Jackson and his team across the stunning locations of New Zealand, transformed by the filmmakers into Middle-Earth.

-The Appendices Part 7: A Long-Expected Journey - A 14-part chronological history of the filming of An Unexpected Journey, covering pre-production in the various departments of the film in the months leading up to the start of principal photography, the boot camp training for the main cast, and the work done on set chronologically through the three shooting blocks and in the world of its digital effects. Chapters include:

*The Journey Back to Middle-Earth
*Riddles...
What we can expect in the EXTENDED EDITION.
WHAT WILL WE SEE IN THE EXTENDED EDITION:

1. More of DALE, including the BLACK ARROWS. Director Peter Jackson mentions a previously unseen character: "Girion, who is defending [the city of] Dale using black arrows against Smaug. And the black arrows play a part in an ongoing story, for they are the one thing that can pierce the dragon's hide."

2. More king of the wood elves; THRANDUIL. Peter Jackson: "There are also issues with Thranduil. We get some of the reason why he and the dwarves had a falling out - to do with these white gems..."

3. More of HOBBITON. Producer Phillipa Boyens: "You are going to get more of Hobbiton. We always wanted to wend our way through Hobbiton, but in the end Bilbo has to run out of the door."

4. The OLD TOOK'S PARTY: In which we see a younger Gandalf meet Bilbo Baggins as a young child, convincing the wizard of the young hobbit's bravery and courage. I won't spoil it for you, but it involves a dragon and a bit...
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Sunday, October 20, 2013

The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Sixth Season [Blu-ray]


The Most Brilliant Comedy Since Seinfeld!
When this show started out I thought it would not last beyond a season. Four super-smart "geeky" guys who love to go to the comics store and love to quote Star Trek and debate philosophical issue regarding superheroes trying to connect with the unreachable hot blonde next door. Well the writers of this series keep coming up with new and hilarious new avenues for this show that never seems to get boring.

What is always constant among these characters is both their hatred towards Sheldon, the self-centered egotist who slings insults without a second thought and whose mind that can solve string theory, cannot fathom the most mundane things regarding human interaction. As each of the characters has an innate desire to slay this "major annoyance," they are also inexplicably drawn to him, no matter what "detailled contracts" he makes them sign or iron clad rules he makes them follow (each day is assigned a specified meal and activity).

The stories keep evolving for...
Great show
Sheldon makes my day. This is the kind of show that can be watched many times and you laugh as much the second time as you did the first !!!!
I actually laugh out loud with this one!!!
This is the first comedy I have seen in a long time that does really make me laugh when I'm watching it. And I mean, my sides hurt I laugh so much sometimes. I love all of the quirky characters, the stories range from silly to touching, and all of the actors perform seamlessly. If you're feeling blue or cranky, give this show a try - it should cheer you right up!
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Scooby-Doo: 13 Spooky Tales Run for Your Rife


Episode Listing
This 2 Disc DVD set contains 13 episodes from the classic Scooby-Doo cartoon. Amazon doesn't always do a good job on their DVD episode listings so here are the episodes that are included in this DVD set:

Disc 1:
1. Scooby-Doo! and the Spooky Scarecrow
2. Who's Afraid Of The Big Bad Werewolf
3. A Gaggle of Galloping Ghosts
4. Which Witch is Which?
5. A Tiki Scare Is No Fair
6. Scared a Lot in Camelot
7. Hang in There, Scooby-Doo

Disc 2:
1. Snow Job Too Small
2. The Stoney Glare Stare
3. Scooby Doo and a Mummy, Too
4. A Scooby-Doo Halloween
5. Scoobra Kadoobra
6. Scooby In Kwackyland

Please note, early pre-release info indicated that "A Halloween Hassle at Dracula's Castle, Parts 1 and 2" were originally scheduled for release on this DVD set, but were switched with the "Scooby Doo and a Mummy, Too" and "A Scooby-Doo Halloween" episodes before final release.
Yes, A Few More NEW-to-DVD Scooby-Doo Episodes, But...
Yes, once again, we get another new themed compilation of both already-on-DVD and NEW-to-DVD Scooby-Doo episodes. This time the theme is Halloween. First, to clarify the number of episodes on this set. Even though they advertise 13 episodes (3 of which are NEW-to-DVD), there's really only 11, plus 1/2, plus 1/3 shows (2 and 1/2 of which are NEW-to-DVD). For those of you who are trying to piece-meal together all the remaining Scooby-Doo episodes on DVD, here are the specifics of what's new and what's not (and available elsewhere):

Disc 1:

1. Scooby-Doo! and the Spooky Scarecrow - (BRAND-NEW) complete 2013 half-hour direct-to-video Halloween special. Scheduled to premiere on Cartoon Network sometime in October, 2013.

2. Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Werewolf - originally aired during the 1970-1971 Season 2 of "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!". Available on Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!: The...
Scooby doo 13 spooky tales run for your life
This Dvd set is garbage except for the new episode it is not worth it. a hassle at dracula's castle is not even on here instead warner brothers ripped off the consumers again and added a Scooby doo Halloween from what's new Scooby doo instead of it. If I did not open this I would have returned it.
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Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Supernatural: The Complete Eighth Season [Blu-ray]


Great Set Up to the Season and Reset to the Series
Review contains light spoilers.

After some of the missteps of the last couple of season of Supernatural, I had my worries about what a new season would bring, but if the rest of Season 8 lives up to the premier, my worries will have been in vain. I loved the opening and the set-up of the season long arcs and the introduction of new characters.

When we left Sam and Dean at the end of Season 7, Dean was in Purgatory and Cas had just disappeared, Kevin, the new prophet had been kidnapped by the always delightful Crowley, Bobby's soul had been set free in death and Sam was left all alone to find Dean, save Kevin and fight the Leviathons. It turns out that Sam did none of those things, a character choice that is sure to be controversial but that has some roots in past behavior and plots. Dean it seems may have been a very bad boy in Purgatory, a place he nicknamed Pure, no doubt because of the purity of the intent to survive that is necessary. It seems that in...
Benny Finally Enters the Story
Benny, the vampire that Dean escaped Purgatory with finally re-enters the story after being introduced in the first episode. Benny is on the track of vengeance and is hunting his maker when he takes on too many other vampires in a fight. He calls Dean for aid and assistance and as Dean is both loyal to Benny and things are still tense between Sam and Dean, he goes to Benny's assistance giving Sam the minimum of explanation.

What follows is a story of cunning, revenge, love and loss with very little redemption - and it is an excellent story indeed. I am so impressed with the new season of Supernatural. I read recently that the creators are hoping to tell their story over ten seasons and if the show continues at this new level of quality I will be watching with renewed passion. Supernatural is a real winner this season. Catch up on all the episodes.

A final note, the actor who plays Benny plays him with a laconic, creepy, sexual appeal and it really adds to the...
Back on Track
The eighth season has returned to focus on the relationship of Dean and Sam just as Jeremy Carver promised it would. The story arc of the tablets is the filler episodes and it is playing out over three years. Our brothers have struggled, but finally found one another again. That's the whole point of the season. It's well worth my time and money to watch this show/dvd's and judging by the ratings and the early renewal for a ninth season, I know I'm not alone. It's not every "little" show that can knock NBC out of the top slot...and Supernatural has.
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Samuel Goldwyn Collection


The Titles
The 6 films are: The Bishop's Wife, The Best Years Of Our LIfe, The Pride Of The Yankees, Wuthering Heights (L. Olivier, Merle Oberon), Hans Christian Anderson, Guys And Dolls. A great selection but no extras known.


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Monday, October 14, 2013

The Dark Knight Trilogy: Ultimate Collector's Edition [Blu-ray]


Just want the Trilogy? This is for you
■■ Just a Heads-Up, Amazon has merged reviews for The Dark Knight Trilogy, and the Dark Knight Trilogy Ultimate Collector's Edition (UCE). This is a review for just the Dark Knight Trilogy. I also have a review for the UCE which can also be found here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3SINGTZGPMNK1/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00DUCXFUC&linkCode=&nodeID=&tag=
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Disregard all the naysayers claiming this is a money grab. No, it's called having a choice. Not everyone wants the Super Duper Ultra Rare Limited Collector's Edition, that's often filled with a bunch of useless physical items. Some people just want to have the trilogy and nothing more. For $30 (currently), you get just that, and even a little bit more.

You get the following in the Blu-ray edition:

Disc 1: Batman Begins Feature Film
Disc 2: The Dark Knight Feature Film
Disc 3: The Dark Knight...
Excellent
Just got mine in the mail. It does indeed come with UltraViolet copies of all 3 movies!

It also comes with:
A 64 page excerpt from "The Art and Making of The Dark Knight Trilogy."

Batman Begins: 1 disc (Movie and special features together)
The Dark Knight: 2 discs (Movie and special features are separate)
The Dark Knight Rises: 2 discs (Movie and special features are separate)

And a code for discounted memorabilia. I will be posting some pictures soon.

Hope this helps!
A Trilogy That Is Going To Be Hard To Live Up To

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Sunday, October 13, 2013

The Mentalist: The Complete Fifth Season


You wouldn't want to miss this season
The fifth season of the Mentalist will take you even deeper into Patrick Jane's world. With the capture of Lorelei Martins, Jane is determined to use her in order to find Red John's real identity. Jane uses his wits, honesty, and even deceptions in attempts to "convert" Lorelei. We also get to see more glimpses of Jane's pasts, and (perhaps) learn more about Red John's background. In this season, Jane is more reckless, cunning, and charming than ever.

This season also explored deeper into the personal lives of the CBI team. Lisbon has her own nemesis, a criminal who she is more determined to catch than any other criminal. During this chase, she becomes quite obsessed with catching him. No doubt, she understood Jane's obsession with Red John more now that she, too, has someone who she wanted to catch so badly. As for other members, we get to see more of their personal lives as well: Cho and Summer; Rigsby and Van Pelt; and Rigsby and his father. These episodes allow us to...
CBI and the FBI Fight over a Red John Witness
In the fifth season opener, the CBI and FBI join forces to cover up the mess created when the FBI botched a CBI mission to capture Red John and a CBI agent is brutally murdered. Bertram is back playing politics with his FBI counterpart, and Patrick Jane is determined to crack captured Red John disciple Lorelei (EMMANUELLE CHRIQUI). The case of the week is a doozy - a double homicide with no apparent connection between the two victims. When the CBI and FBI are forced to play nice and investigate the double homicide together, Jane uses his skills to solve the case and to force the FBI to relinquish custody of Lorelei. Great start to the season.
Mentalist
This show is not your average cop show. The show is based in Sacramento, Ca., and I'm happy that some of it is actually filmed there. No doubt CBI's headquarters is filmed in L.A.'s film studios.

Yes this show did start off with Jane tracking down Red John - his wife and daughter's killer. Jane is still trying to catch this illusive serial killer. And having copy cats and "helpers" doesn't really help Jane get any closer to Red John. But for the past 5 seasons, this show has done a good job in showing that Patrick Jane has matured. He can be both obsessed in finding Red John AND being able to function in other activities: I.e. helping Teresa Lisbon (Robin Tunney) investigate crimes. His job is after all a paid consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Simon Baker plays a really good "mentalist" in this show. "Mentalist" in Patrick Jane's perspective as an admitted fraud to psychic powers. I liked how he commented in one show how there...
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Arrow: The Complete First Season


Wow. I Am Impressed
I had low expectations when I decided to download the pilot episode. After the utter failure of 'The Cape' and other superhero TV shows ruined with poor acting, poor action and plots that could have been written by a 10 year old, who can blame me for expecting Arrow to be another loser. However, I actually came away impressed ... and I am not that easily impressed.

First, the selection of Stephen Amell as Green Arrow was excellent. I was worried the role would go to a male model more concerned with being pretty than being a hardened man on a mission. With Stephen Amell as Green Arrow you get a guy who comes off more as an MMA fighter, which makes Arrow so much more believable. The action scenes are crisp and effective. Arrow starts out with grit and has an edgy quality that keeps you interested. The plot contains plenty of room for mystery and the dialogue/acting is pretty good. It makes no difference if you are a Green Arrow fan or not, this show is about enjoying a...
Not your average superhero fan
First let me say, I probably skew the demographics on superhero TV and movies. I am a 52 year-old woman, and have loved the science fiction and superhero genres since I was 12. I love the X-men movies (all of them), most of the Batman movies, the first Iron Man movie,not crazy about Superman (too goody-goody for me, I like 'em dark!). I'm a faithful fan of the excellent Grimm, and the sometimes over-the-top Once Upon A Time. I even enjoy watching some of the animated Spiderman and others with my grandson (LOVE the Di-gata Defenders!). The best ones are archetypes, resonating in the soul.

That said, my review:

This series is really well-done, the cast is exceptionally strong considering their lack of fame, the acting is well above average for the genre, and particularly for a television series. It's dark, often creepy (but not so much that I wouldn't let a nine- or ten-year-old watch it), plenty of action, with a wonderfully believable set of characters. Stephen...
This show justs gets better and better!
I love, love, love this show. Such a nice change from the usual mostly meh kind of shows many of the networks are churning out like the mindless so called "reality" shows that I refuse to watch. Way to go CW-this is a winner.
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Friday, October 11, 2013

The Matrix [Blu-ray]


Blu-Ray Transfer Is Fantastic!
With over 2,000 reviews, there is no sense discussing the movie so I will just address this to readers wondering if the Blu-Ray transfer is as good as they, perhaps, have heard.

Yes, it is - it's incredble. I am not a particular fan of the film, especially the sequels, so I say these remarks with no bias. I just rented this first "Matrix" to see how it looked. Well, it Blu (pun intended) me away!! At this point, I've seen around 50 Blu-Ray DVDs and this is as good as it gets. I can't imagine how you could make it any better. It's so sharp, I just sat there mesmerized by it. The sound also is outstanding....another upgrade. I've seen this movie three times now and I swear I heard a lot of background talk and stuff I never heard before.

So....if you read that the audio and visuals are 5-star caliber - believe it; it's true.
Movie's Great...This Package, Not So
The Matrix is an excellent movie that combines science fiction, shoot-em-up action, and philosophical questions about the nature of Reality. If you are plugged in to a computer, and that computer presents you with a reality that is completely indistinguishable from your own, is it any less real?

This movie has exceptional special effects, beautiful cinematography, an excellent soundtrack, well-crafted dialogue, and respectable acting. Keanu Reeves may be a lousy actor, but I think that the Matrix is probably his best performance to date.

The Platinum Limited Edition isn't really worth the extra money unless you're an absolute, die-hard, take the red pill, freak. I wish I had known that before ordering this product. It comes in a box about as thick as an encyclopedia, and is fairly large, so it won't fit on the shelf with the rest of your DVDs. Opening it up, I was rather disappointed -- most of the volume is filled with a cheap plastic tray that contains a celluloid clip of...
Beyond Anything You've Seen Before
(What is the Matrix). In 1977, George Lucas changed the landscape of cinematic Science Fiction forever with "Star Wars," taking the genre light years ahead of all that preceded it. Such a momentous advancement would not be seen again for over twenty years, when, in 1999, the Wachowski Brothers raised the bar again, taking the genre at warp speed to an unprecedented level with their astoundingly innovative film, "The Matrix." Co-directed, written and produced by Larry and Andy Wachowski, it is an allegory of salvation and redemption filled with symbolism and metaphor (the Biblical references alone should keep theology students debating this one for years to come); a thinking man's action film, accentuated with moments that are no less than profound. In a world of the future, things are literally not what they seem, where it's Man versus Machine, Reality versus Fantasy, and few who know the truth; among those who do, is Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), who has long awaited the...
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Two and a Half Men: The Complete Tenth Season


Not the same
It's definitely different without Charlie Sheen aka Charlie Harper. I also think Angus T. Jones and his lessened presence as Jake Harper is the reason for his recent outburst regarding the crudeness of the show. Since Ashton Kutcher arrived, the show is about 85% less crude and 50% less funny.
Still good for a laugh or two
Although the new premise of the show is not as believable as the original with Charlie Sheen, it still produces a laugh or two because it is well written, and all the characters are still funny. I'm not a big fan of Ashton Kutcher, in my opinion he's not much of an actor, but he is adequate for the part. Jon Cryer is still the best part of the show. He's the Barney Fife to whoever is the new sheriff in town. There have been some fun twists in the season, with the character Rose returning to try to get Walden, and some not so fun twists like Miley Cyrus showing up as an annoying chatterbox. I'd say this show is still worth watching, but it should probably conclude next season before the premise runs its course.
3 way anyone?
the writers went all out when they get a crowded bed with everyone making an effort but frustration trouble and sorrow ensue. the cast takes a swing and hits it out of the park.
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Scooby-Doo: 13 Spooky Tales Ruh-Roh Robot


Episode Listing
This 2 Disc DVD set contains 13 episodes from the classic Scooby-Doo cartoon. Amazon doesn't always do a good job on their DVD episode listings so here are the episodes that are included in this DVD set:

Disc1:
1. Scooby-Doo! Mecha Mutt Menace
2. Foul Play in Funland
3. The Scary Sky Skeleton
4. Way Out Scooby
5. Who's Scooby-Doo?
6. Disappearing Car Caper
7. The Dinosaur Deception

Disc 2:
1. The Hand of Horror
2. Doom Service
3. A Code in the Nose
4. The Bee Team
5. A Night Louse at the White House, Part I
6. A Night Louse at the White House, Part II
13 Sooky Tales Ruh-Roh Robot
1. Scooby-Doo! Mecha Mutt Menace
2. Foul Play in Funland
3. The Scary Sky Skeleton
4. Way Out Scooby
5. Who's Scooby-Doo?
6. Disappearing Car Caper
7. The Dinosaur Deception
8. The Hand of Horror
9. Doom Service
10. A Code in the Nose
11. The Bee Team
12. A Night Louse at the White House, Part I
13. A Night Louse at the White House, Part II

So I started this review with an episode list. Most likely you've never heard most of the episodes on the set. That is because only one episode on this set is a rerelease which is fantastic. That being said I need to address that the sneaky folks at warner bros. fail to mention Scrappy Doo's appearences in every episode on the set except two. So this set appealing to you depends on your opinion of Scrappy and the new Scooby-Doo! Mecha Mutt Menace special on wheather or not this collections a buy for you. I give this set five sars for all new releases and the fact that Scrappy...

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Thursday, October 10, 2013

The Middle: The Complete Third Season


Please release the Third Season!
I love the series, "The Middle," which has Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond) and Neil Flynn (Scrubs) as parents of three precocious children in fictional Orson, Indiana. The show is far better than Modern Family which gets awards.

Maybe the show is a little too blue collar or set in the middle of the country but it's still one of the best comedies on television and in recent decades. Patricia Heaton should get more Emmys for her performance as Frances "Frankie" Heck and the same accolades for her onscreen partner, Neil Flynn as her husband, Mike Heck.

The actors who play the children are perfect. Charlie McDermott is a hoot as the oldest son, Axel, who takes off his shirt and clips his toenails in the chip bag. Eden Sher is wonderful as the always optimistic Sue Heck even in the worst of times. And I can't forget Atticus Shaffer as Brick, the boy who prefers books to anything else.

This season was great and I look forward to the fourth. Marsha...
WHEN? - UPDATE (6/12/13): It's coming October 8th, 2013!!!
Anyone who watches "The Middle" knows what a brilliant series it is! This, however, is not a traditional review, which I will update at a later date. Instead, I am wondering why there is not a pre-order listing for this title. Warner Bros., the past two years, has at least let the fans know to expect a release, but this year, not so much. With release dates for other series in their library, like "The Big Bang Theory," "Mike & Molly," and "Suburgatory," it baffles me why this series has heard no good news yet. I am dying to own this next season, which was fantastic, to say the least. I really hope something surfaces soon in terms of a DVD (even Blu-ray would be GREAT) for this series. It is truly underrated and deserves to be on DVD. Fingers crossed that an announcement is forthcoming!

UPDATE (6/12/13): The WB has announced that production of the season on DVD has begun, with a release date of October 8, 2013!!! I encourage everyone to immediately pre-order/purchase this...
If only they would finally, finally release this season on DVD!
You know all those over-hyped, supposedly 'edgy' and daring comedies the critics insist all discerning TV fans SHOULD love and appreciate? Well, The Middle isn't among them ;) But while critics have given the show a lukewarm reception, all of the actual TV viewers I know have been immediately charmed and delighted by this underrated gem of a show.

The Middle doesn't go out of its way to flaunt just how edgy and risque it can be. It doesn't, like so many other critically lauded shows, feature wholly unlikable people doing wholly unlikable things while half-winking at the camera over just how zany they are. It doesn't go for cartoonishly over-the-top wackiness or the kind of constant lowbrow sexual innuendo and fart jokes that you might unpleasantly associate with high school locker rooms.

Instead, The Middle simply tells the story of a family that's likable and even admirable despite also being realistically, hilariously flawed. The humor stems from the strong...
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Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Super Friends: Legacy of Super Powers - Season 6


At last! The Super Friends Series is Finally Complete on DVD w/ this 1981-82 Season!
Super Friends fans rejoice! Wasting no time since recently releasing Season 5 of "Super Friends" on DVD, Warner Brothers presents us with a DVD release of Season 6, entitled: "Super Friends: Legacy of Super Powers" coming to DVD on October 8th. This is the 1981-1982 season, which had only 6 half hour episodes, broken down into 18 seven minute shorts.

Here's what you get.

The 1981-1982 Shorts: (Please note that every 3 cartoons listed below make up one half hour episode)
01) Outlaws Of Orion
02) Three Wishes
03) Scorpio
04) Mxyzptlk's Flick
05) Sink Hole
06) Alien Mummy
07) Evil From Krypton
08) The Creature From The Dump
09) Aircraft Terror
10) Lava Men
11) Bazarowurld
12) The Warlord's Amulet
13) The Iron Cyclops
14) Palette's Perils
15) Colossus
16) Stowaways From Space
17) The Staraghosta Sea
18) The Witch's Arcade

(1 disc) Total running time: Approximately 2...
KEEPS GETTING BETTER !!!
Hi there & i shall get to the point... Knowing that in 1980's these classic cartoons, from Transformers, G.I Joe, He-Man & She-Ra, Pa-Man, Thundar the Barbarian, Etc Etc... Just knowing that we have this amazing company to be able to order just about anything that we like, grew up with & love & also be able to share with our love one's .... THANKS THANKS THANKS !!!!!!!!!

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House of Wax [Blu-ray]


Solid, 50s Gothic Horror Flick
Horror films in the 1950s were often set in earlier times - including "House of Wax" - a gothic-styled thriller. Vincent Price stars, and this movie was his first of many, many horror films. He's perfect in this role, and it's puzzling why no one had cast him as this type of character before. He plays Prof. Henry Jarrod, a wax figure sculptor who's far too obsessed with his work. He's the head of an unsuccessful wax museum and watches in disgust as other museums make money by showing horror style wax figures, such as mass murderers. When his museum is burned to the ground, he re-emerges and seeks vengeance on persons responsible.

The film received a great deal of buzz as the second 3-D film released by a major studio ("Bwana Devil" was the first); not surprisingly, it was a major hit, becoming the 7th biggest money-maker of 1953. "House of Wax" was actually a remake of a 1933 film, "Mystery of the Wax Museum." In addition, a remake of this film is currently in the...
movie good, DVD BAD!
I saw this movie on Turner Classic Movies, and it was beautiful looking and entertaining and atmospheric and I just LOVE Vincent Price. So to me it seemed a perfect idea to own this DVD. But I should have read more of the professional reviews about how awful the picture quality is. Too many reviewers on Amazon talk about how great the movie is (and it is), but we're supposed to also be reviewing the DVD itself. And I feel I must warn anyone who cares about good quality DVDs to STAY AWAY! This is one of the grainiest, blurriest and worst looking DVDs I've ever seen (not exaggerating). On first impression, even my wife said, "Why is that so grainy looking?" I had to tell her that it was the DVD. She was sure something was wrong with our player or the tv, because DVDs are NOT supposed to look like this. It didn't help that we had both recently seen the movie on TCM, where it was beautiful and crystal clear. So I have to ask: If TCM can show the movie in perfect condition, why...
one of Price's best films
This movie has wit, excellent pacing and a strong supporting cast (including a blonde Carolyn Jones "Morticia" from the Addams Family) and a small role for Charles Bronson (playing Igor and billed as Charles Buchinsky). Prince gets to be both understated and hammy in the brilliant film, that he is likely best know for.

It catches the atmosphere of the Gaslight period, and is lighting speed, as Price goes from a brilliant artist of life-like wax figures, to a scarred man, nearly killed by his partner wanting the insurance. He is forced to watch his two crowning glories, his Joan of Arc and his Marie Antoinette destroyed in the fire. With scared hands, he is forced to use bodies to fill his new house of wax, while Price also manages to meet out a little revenge to his former partner.

At first bodies are vanishing from the morgue, but when Price sees Jones - the living image of Joan of Arc - and Phyllis Kirk, his Marie Antoinette come to life in his mind - he...
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