Red Cartoons: Animated Films from East Germany DVD Review

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Review: The DEFA animation studio controlled most animation in East Germany for more than 35 years.  Once the Berlin wall came down the production winded down on these often politically charged cartoons.   This is something that would otherwise be lost, since it came from a very enclosed part of the world during a turbulant time.  Fortunately, we get this single disc DVD release, which features a sampling of 16 cartoons.  Its an amazing piece of history.

The cartoons are deceptive in their simplicity.  There is no overly involved plot or complex animation here.  Its a lot of political satire and ironic situations.  The non-sequitur shorts almost seem like political comics from the newspaper brought to life through animation.

The DVD does include the extra of giving brief bios for the animators.  We'd love to see more of these releases in the future.  This would be an amazing DVD to bring into the classroom to illustrate the tone of Eastern Germany throughout the 1970s and 1980s.   Its also just a great piece of animation and world history to add to your collection!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

 Dallas: The Complete Twelfth Season DVD Review

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Synopsis: J.R. has always been a hound dog with the ladies and in Season 12 it all comes back to bite him. A dalliance with an Arkansas cutie leads J.R. to the wrong end of a shotgun, 10 years of hard labor, a prison break and the altar. And that’s just the start of 26 episodes of commotion and emotion that also include a tell-all movie (bankrolled by the first Mrs. J.R. Ewing) that threatens to unveil every low-down trick J.R. ever pulled and a rival oil man scheming to destroy the Ewing empire, taking the clan from Southfork all the way to Austria and Russia!

Review: If anyone doesn't remember Dallas, then you know they weren't around in the 1980s.  This show was it!  It was the end all of nighttime drama.  From the famous "Who Shot J.R.?" stunt when the show first began, Dallas gained a loyal following of viewers.  This show was the original Desperate Housewives.

Season 12 of the show was at a point where the same ol' stories were getting worn out and sad.  What was great about the 12th season is the re-vitalization of the storylines.  The writers really went above and beyond with their reach for the characters.  Bobby Ewing makes Cliff a partner in Ewing Oil, but thanks to J.R. and his scheming ways, the deal falls through.  Sue Ellen is still trying to kill off J.R. after her disappointment for not being able to kill him the first time.  The characters are all up to no good and the drama is flying!

The show would last only two more seasons after this one, but at 14 seasons long it dominated airwaves my entire youth.  I have great memories of the show and its a blast to watch again.  I recommend this DVD to anyone that enjoyed the show.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars


Links: www.dallasondvd.com

Make It Or Break It, Volume 1 DVD Review 

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Synopsis: How far will they go to achieve their ultimate dream? Experience the rivalry and romance of four teenage girls on their path to Olympic gold in the original ABC Family series that has fans and critics cheering all across the nation. “You’ll flip for…Make It Or Break It,” raves David Hinkley of the New York Daily News. Who will rank #1 at Nationals and what will it take to get there? Viewers will flip for this engaging series chronicling the triumphs and heartbreaks as close friends balance their lives as high school students with the intense world of competitive gymnastics. Fans can relive the series that raises the bar on family drama, complete with a never-before-seen extended episode, and go behind the scenes to discover what it takes to perform such amazing stunts—only on DVD!

Review: Its come to my attention recently that ABC Family has really been upgrading the quality of programming that they air.  We're seeing a rise in dramas centered around competitive areas of life, and in that tradition Make It Or Break It delves into the crazy world of gymnastics.

The show is great, because it not only shows the actual work and drama of the gymnists, but the girls' families are deeply involved.  The families come from varying financial backrounds and you get to see how each of them handle trying to keep their child into this sport that can become all engrossing emotionally and financially taxing, as well.

This is the first volume release of the Make It Or Break It series.  There are 10 episodes on volume one, season one has a total of 20 episodes.  

Bonus Features Include: Deleted Scenes, Making It An Inside Look At How These Flexible Female Stars Balance Acting With Difficult Stunts For A Gold Medal Performance, Never-Before-Seen Extended Finale

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Super Friends Season 1, Volume 1 DVD Review
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Synopsis: SUPERMAN, BATMAN, ROBIN, WONDER WOMAN,  AQUAMAN, and the rest of the DC SUPER HEROES squad, team up again to protect the world as Warner Home Video (WHV) and DC Comics release on DVD SUPER FRIENDS! Season 1 Volume 1 on January 5, 2010 for $26.99 SRP.  Available for the first time since its debut on ABC in 1973, this highly-anticipated Two-Disc Collector’s set features eight one-hour adventures starring America’s favorite DC SUPER HEROES.

SUPER FRIENDS! Season 1 Volume 1 showcases some of the greatest DC SUPER HEROES of all time including SUPERMAN, BATMAN, ROBIN, WONDER WOMAN, and AQUAMAN as they combine their special powers to save the world. The Fab Five along with the help of hero trainees Wendy, Marvin and WONDER DOG must focus their abilities on saving lives and stopping unthinkable disasters by the hands of evil villains. SUPER FRIENDS! Season 1 Volume 1 also features memorable appearances by PLASTIC MAN, THE FLASH and GREEN ARROW! Each exciting hour is packed with timeless adventures as these comic book heroes pave the way for a brighter future. 

The Two-Disc Collector’s Edition also features:
·Over 20 minutes of bonus content complete with extra footage of the SUPER FRIENDS! series!
·An interactive trivia game featuring everyone’s favorite DC SUPER HEROES.

“Warner Home Video is thrilled to release the latest edition in the SUPER FRIENDS! collection with SUPER FRIENDS! Season 1 Volume 1,” said Amit Desai, WHV Vice President of Family, Animation & Partner Brands Marketing.  “SUPER FRIENDS! has remained a pop culture sensation for over 35 years and now fans have an opportunity to relive the hit series’ unforgettable first season for the first time on DVD.”

SUPER FRIENDS! Season 1 Volume 1 includes eight action-packed episodes:

Disc I
The Power Pirate
The Baffles Puzzel
Professor Goodfellow’s G.E.E.C
The Weather Maker

Disc II
Dr. Pelagian’s War
The Shamon “U”
Too Hot To Handle
The Androids

Review: I have a lot of Super Friends on DVD.  Everything from the Challenge of the Superfriends to Galactic Guardians.  I've been waiting, as many fans have, for the original 1973 series to hit DVD.  You remember the one..it had Wendy, Marvin and the Wonder Dog!  Lots of color and bellbottoms.



The show is painful.  I'm not going to mince words here.  Its a painful show and its hard to watch sometimes.  On that same note, the show is also nostalgic and fun.  This is where it all began for a lot of Batman fans.  I watched some of the 1980s re-runs and new versions of the series and that was my first introduction to animated Batman.  We didn't have the luxury of Batman: The Animated Series and the rest of the 'Timmverse' when I was growing up...Super Friends was it!  This DVD release has 8 of the original 16 episodes, so a second volume will be rounding out this specific series soon.  Off the top of my head I think that the only other Super Friends show yet to make it onto DVD is the 'World's Greatest SuperFriends' show, but the experts can correct me if I'm wrong.

This set also includes a fun extra...its a Super Friends DVD trivia game.   The game can be done by one or multiple players.  You pin the options and you're asked a question about say Superman or Wonder Woman trivia.  This trivia isn't necessarily limited to the show, but the characters at large.  Its definately fun.


This is an essential piece to round out a Super Friends collection.  The entire series is nearly on DVD now!  This is obviously where it all began and its still fun to watch.  A must for any serious Batman fan.



Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Links:
Visit the Super Friends fansite on Legions of Gotham

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Synopsis: Get ready to fall in love with this timeless Special Edition of Winnie The Pooh's beloved Valentine's Day classic! Join Pooh and his pals as they set off on an exciting adventure to find the Smitten (love bug) they think has bitten Christopher Robin. Brimming with magic and delightful songs, A VALENTINE FOR YOU reminds us that there's room in our hearts for both old and new friends! Then, enjoy extra fun and laughter with two more charming tales: Un-Valentine's Day and My Hero. It's a sweet treat for the entire family!

Bonus Features include: My Hero New To DVD! From THE NEW ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH, Catch The Love Bug Game Flying Love Bugs are On The Loose In The Hundred Acre Wood, And It's Up To You To Catch As Many As You Can.

Review: I love Winnie the Pooh.  Probably too much for a thirty year old man, but I do have three kids to hide behind at least, right?  Disney has been doing this great bit of re-releasing old Pooh specials onto DVD with extra features and including pack-in collectibles.  I love pack-in collectibles too!  This time around you get six exclusive Valentines with your DVD.  How fun is that?!  Thats something that is great for kids and collectible for adults.  Everyone wins.

This DVD is essentially a re-release of the old Pooh special Un-Valentine's Day.  I have this on VHS.  I bought it before I had kids!  Thats right.  Anyway, this release features: "A Valentine for You", "UnValentine's Day", "Three Piglets" and "My Hero". 

A Valentine for you was a 1999 Valentine's Day special where Christopher Robin gets sick with the love bug.  Un-Valentine's Day, Three Piglets and My Hero are all episodes from the very under-rated Saturday morning cartoon 'The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh'.  I'm really hoping that show gets a full DVD release someday.  It was really outstanding.   The My Hero episode is part of the special features on the DVD, along with a love bug game that the kids had a lot of fun playing.

The video transfer on those 'New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh' episodes is a little fuzzy, but it actually looks just like I remember it on TV, so thats kinda fun and kids honestly don't seem to care!  I highly recommend this release this Valentine's Day for every family!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Big Love: The Complete Third Season DVD Review

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Synopsis: As if juggling three wives weren't tricky enough, Season Three of Emmy®- and Golden Globe®-nominated 'Big Love' finds modern polygamist Bill Henrickson (Bill Paxton) tackling problems outside his three-house suburban home. Bill a practicing polygamist who lives in suburban Salt Lake City with his three wives and seven children. An independent businessman who runs a growing chain of hardware stores, Bill faces a myriad of challenges in meeting the emotional, romantic and financial needs of his wives Barb (Jeanne Tripplehorn), Nicki (Chloe Sevigny) and Margene (Ginnifer Goodwin).

Review: If you haven't seen Big Love before, then you're in for a whole big pile of creepy.  The show follows the Hendrickson family as they try to live a daily life in the midst of polygamy.  Bill Hendrickson (Bill Paxton) has three wives and seven kids amongst them.  I know that having many women can be a male fantasy, but perhaps Big Love will deter a bit.  The complications of not one wife, but three are outstanding.

The one issue with this show is that it may have run its course after this season.  The storylines are getting a bit redundant and there are only so many different situations that you can put these characters in before you drastically change up the scenery.  Big Love could take a lesson or two from Weeds, who has done a great job of constantly changing up the show.

If you're a fan of this show, then season 3 will definately please.  You can watch the family as they've left the church, yet still have to contend with them, neighbors and the ever creepy Roman Grant.   Definately pick this one up and add it to your collection.  If you haven't seen the show, you should check it out.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

The Circuit DVD Review

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Synopsis: A father and his estranged daughter rev up their engines and go head-to-head in the exciting drama, The Circuit, arriving on DVD January 5 from Vivendi Entertainment and RHI Entertainment. Michelle Trachtenberg (“Gossip Girl,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”) stars as racing protégé Kylie Shine; she’s got beauty and brains, matched only by her skill on the racetrack.  The child of legendary racecar driver Al Shines (Billy Campbell; “The O.C.”), Kylie is a star on the rise; only her father will not acknowledge it.  When Al is dropped from his racing team, Kylie is given the ultimate chance to prove herself when she is asked to fill her father’s shoes.  Caught up in the fast-paced world of racing, boys and being a teenager, Kylie is on the verge of losing herself while trying to become the best. An ABC Family original movie,The Circuitwill be available on DVD for the suggested retail price of $14.93.

Review: The Circuit is a film about the relationship between father and daughter.  The car racing is really just a backdrop.  The basic premise of this film is that the main character Kylie is a new rising star in the racing world.  Her father abandoned her to her aunt after her mother passed away, so they have a very strained relationship and haven't even spoken in two years.

Kylie becomes more and more involved in racing and at a very seemingly convenient moment her father shows up with advice.  Kylie ignores him and presses on.   We find out quickly that the promoter is trying to expolit Kylie and her father, but her father will have nothing to do with it.  He's trying to do right by his daughter for once.   In the midst of this Kylie also falls for a teammate and some romantic sparks begin to fly.

This is a nice, albeit predictable, film that does entertain. It was a nice watch and actually turned out better than I thought it would.  I would recommend, especially for tweens and above.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Friday: the Complete Animated Series DVD Review

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Synopsis: Craig and Smokey are back at it! FRIDAY: THE ANIMATED SERIES, based on Ice Cube’s successful Friday film series, is an urban comedy about the misadventures of the dynamic duo. Similar to the film, Craig and Smokey struggle to survive family, friends and life in South Central L.A. The series includes many of the popular characters from the Friday movies, including Deebo and Craig’s dad, Mr. Jones. Relive the hjinks all over again in FRIDAY: THE ANIMATED SERIES.

Review: I'm a fan of animation in general and I'm always looking for an interesting show.  I had no idea that there was a Friday Animated Series until this DVD arrived in the mail.  I enjoyed the first Friday film.  After that, I kinda lost interest.  I'm not really into it anymore.  I think a lot of liking it had to do with the time it came out and where I was in life (a teenager). 

The teenager in me wanted to check this DVD out, though.  I needed to see if it was something that was still funny to me.  I wasn't terribly impressed.  The animation is fine, once you get used to it and the situations are typical of what you'd see in a continuation of Friday...but something is just lost in this concept now to me, I don't know what it is.

The bottom line is this..if you enjoy the Friday movies, then you'll enjoy this animated series.  The characterizations are spot-on and the humor is right in line with the film franchise.  The voice actors are not the actors from the film, but they do a great job of immitating.  This is one of those funny cartoons for adults.  WARNING PARENTS - this one is for adults.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Family Guy: Something, Something, Something Darkside DVD Review

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Synopsis: The story of The Empire Strikes Back is retold. Darth Vader (Stewie) is hunting the rebel Luke Skywalker (Chris) and his troops relentlessly across the galaxy. On the ice planet Hoth, Luke has a vision of his late mentor Obi-Wan Kenobi (Herbert), telling him to go to the Dagobah system to learn the ways of the Force under Jedi Master Yoda (Carl). Meanwhile Princess Leia (Lois) finds herself taking a shine to the scruffy pilot Han Solo (Peter) and, against all odds, the two soon fall in love. But an encounter with Han’s old friend Lando Calrissian (Mort) lands them in the clutches of the Empire. Envisioning this, Luke chooses to forgo his Jedi training to save his friends. It all comes to a head in a climactic confrontation with Darth Vader himself… 

Review: This is the second time that Family Guy takes on the Star Wars saga.  It begins with the family watching tv when the power goes out...so they decide to have storytime...I didn't watch the first one (Blue Harvest), but I was interested in checking this one out.    I don't like Family Guy.  I don't watch it..its usually too juvenille and obvious for me.  That being said, its had a few funny moments, but I generally stick to the Simpsons.  I do love a good Star Wars satire, since I adore it so.   I know I'm in the minority in not liking Family Guy, but that makes this review all the more potent.

This really turns out to be much less about Family Guy and all about Star Wars...and I love a good Star Wars satire. Heck, I love a satire of anything that I enjoy.  What I thought might happen is a lack of material.  A lot of spoofs that you watch have some funny moments, but you have to wait through a lot of boring space to get to them.  Not so in this film.  Its almost non-stop laughs.

One highlight right off the bat is the George Takei reference!  Hilarious.  Peter rides a don-don (a ton ton with a Don Knotts head...again made me laugh).  A random juicy fruit commercial in the middle of the hoth scene is a gut buster too, at least for me.  It goes on and on.  I'm surprised by my saying this, but I highly recommend this one . Its going to stay in my collection.


Rating: An unexpected 5 out of 5 Stars

Kyle XY: the third and final season DVD Review!

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Synopsis: Action, mystery and suspense reach an all-new level in ten stunning original episodes of Kyle XY. Go to the next stage as Kyle (Matt Dallas) and Jessi (Jaimie Alexander) begin to work as a team and uncover the secrets of their origin. Kyle’s world is turned upside-down when his powers suddenly disappear, and he’s in for another surprise when Amanda (Kirsten Prout) comes home with an unexpected question. As one woman in Kyle’s life arrives, another must say goodbye – though Jessi assures him they will always be connected. Meanwhile, the prom is fast approaching, and Kyle wants his night with Amanda to be perfect. After a dance neither of them will ever forget, Kyle comes face-to-face with the ultimate mystery. Experience every twist and turn on three discs, including never-before-seen bonus features. You don’t know the whole story until you’ve seen Kyle XY: The Complete Third and Final Season.

Review: I had heard of Kyle XY in passing over the years.  When it first came out we were sent some press releases and such, but I never really gave it a chance.  It just looked too teen oriented for me.  I already watch Smallville, thats enough youthful angst, I figure.   So, when we came upon this DVD I decided to give it a good chance, because honestly most of my favorite shows keep getting cancelled and I need new ones!

Its been referred to as Smallville meets Dawson's Creek and I really found that to be the case.  The relationships in this world take the first chair, and after that comes the sci-fi elements.  This caught me by surprise, because Smallville has really balanced the two very well and this show is definately more love drama than action/sci-fi.  Its still a cool show and definately worth checking out, but don't expect straight sci-fi.

The bonus features on the DVD include Kyle XY: Future Revealed – A look at what would have happened in Season 4, Deleted Scenes and Audio Commentaries.  This DVD set is your chance to wrap-up this cool show and complete your collection!  We even get a look into what would have happened with this series if Fox had graced it with a fourth season.  Honestly, on Fox it was lucky to get three, they're so cancel-happy (we still miss the Sarah Connor Chronicles!).  The story could have been more involved and the acting isn't always top shelf, but this is a cool show and worth getting into.

Video: Click HERE to view the trailer

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The Secret Life of the American Teenager Volume 3 DVD Review

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Synopsis: The teen drama that has everyone talking is more exciting than ever in Volume Three. Rediscover all the drama and emotion of THE SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEENAGER, the critically acclaimed original ABC Family series. It's a whole new world for Amy as she tries to juggle motherhood, school, work and family. Meanwhile, Grace and Jack take their relationship to the next level. Experience all 12 episodes of Volume Three, complete with exciting bonus features -- including a behind-the-scenes look at the cast -- only on DVD!

Review: It seems like television is hard pressed to go without its teen dramas.   Whether its 90210 or this newer shot, The Secret Life of the American Teenager.  This ABC Family show, often called simply 'Secret Life' is a huge hit.  It even beat out Gossip Girl at times in the ratings.

The show has released two previous seasons and this newest one is full of great situations and the crazy kind of drama that teens not only enjoy, they seem to need.  Secret Life delves into all types of issues, even centering around teen pregnancy, amid much controversy.  Its great to see a television show dealing with a real life issue like that, most shows like to pretend it doesn't exist.


This third volume shows the characters dealing with the struggles of teen motherhood, trying to juggle work, school and the baby, plus the in-depth and complicated relationships of the other characters.  The show will be staring up again in 2010, so catch up now with these great DVDs.  You'll definately need them to catch up on the drama!


Video: Another Pregnancy?!  Click HERE



Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

George Lopez: Tall, Dark and Chicano DVD Review

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Synopsis: One of the most popular and versatile comedians of his time, “G-Lo” has pretty much done it all – TV series, film, radio, stand-up, recordings, a book, and soon, late-night TV as a talk show host.  Now his second solo special for HBO®, George Lopez: Tall, Dark & Chicano, hits stores on December 15, 2009 from HBO Home Entertainment, featuring the hot comic in one of his most controversial performances to date.

Hitting on some of the hottest buttons today as well as familiar issues,George Lopez: Tall, Dark & Chicano finds the multi-talented comedian/actor before a packed house at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas, delivering a no-holds-barred routine on topics like Latino perspectives on change in America, kids these days, parenting, Barack Obama, aging, sagging body parts, sexual frustration, trendy names for children and “rednecks” who date Latinas.

Added to Lopez’s triumphant six-year run as the star of his self-titled sitcom on ABC, is a long list of credits including hosting the Latin Emmy® Awards and co-hosting the Alma Awards®; recording the Grammy-nominated CDs Team Leader and El Mas Chignon; writing the best-selling autobiography Why Are You Crying?; hosting his own morning radio show in L.A.; and  acting in feature films such as Balls of Fury, The Adventures of Shark Boy and Lava Girl, Swing Vote and the upcoming Valentine’s Day and The Spy Next Door.  Lopez’s first solo HBO special was George Lopez: America’s Mexican, which premiered in 2007.

Review: Its very difficult to get a good rating on a comedy DVD.  A comedian like George Lopez had run the danger of becoming very watered down over the year of being on television in a successful sitcom.  This new HBO stand-up special, which was filmed in La Vernia, Texas, is a triumphant return to legitimate comedy for Lopez.

There really aren't enough latino comics of note, so Lopez really carries a lot on his back.  In this comedy special Lopez uses the gift of foul language and controvertial topics to get his points across.  You may not wish to have your younger kids watch this one due to the language.  Thats definately of note since George also has a very clean television show, so you might not expect it.  Mind you, its hilarious for adults.  Lopez delves into politics even, by mocking the Republicans. 

This DVD is a fantastic release.  It'd make a great Xmas gift or just a fun addition to your own comedy collection.  George Lopez has proven once again why he's funny.  I know that George also has his Lopez Tonight talk show on TBS weeknights, so you should tune into that, as well.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

World's Greatest Dad DVD Review

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Synopsis: Robin Williams stars as Lance Clayton, a man who has learned to settle.  He dreamed of being a rich and famous writer, but has only managed to make it as an unpopular high school poetry teacher.  His only son Kyle (Daryl Sabara) is an insufferable jackass who won't give his father the time of day.  He is dating Claire (Alexie Gilmore), the school's adorable art teacher, but she doesn't want to get serious, or even acknowledge publicly that they are dating.  Then, in the wake of a freak accident, Lance suffers the worst tragedy and greatest opportunity of his life. He is suddenly faced with the possibility of all the fame, fortune and popularity he ever dreamed of, if he can only live with the knowledge of how he got there.

Review: This is one of those films that can only be categorized as a dark comedy.  Robin Williams is generally known for his outrageous hilarity, but over the past decade he's done some more independant style roles and this one takes the cake.   This is the darkest film I've seen since Kevin Spacy American Beauty.

In many of the scenes its what Williams doesn't say, rather than what he does that really hits home.  His silent foreboding looks.  You can see him trying to absorb and understand what has happened to his life and to our society in general.  The lack of intimacy and closeness...opportunism, narcissism and other negative effects that have overrun society over the past few decades.

I truly enjoyed this film.  It doesn't give you the American ending.  You don't get the cliche moments of redemption.  This really can only be categorized as an independant film with a mainstream actor who is clearly searching for a deeper voice in his older years on the screen.  I have learned that I much prefer Robin Williams in dramatic roles.  I highly recommend this one if you're into alternative film and dark comedies.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Ultimate Edition DVD Review

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Synopsis: Welcome to the Second Harry Potter Ultimate Edition!

Fantastic 4-Disc Set Includes New Feature-Length Documentary: Creating the World of Harry Potter Part 2: Characters

A Whole New Realm of Discovery … Discover the intriguing inside stories of why so many of Britain’s most celebrated stars took roles in the series • See the newly unveiled screen test between Daniel Radcliffe and Evanna Lynch (selected to play Luna out of 15,000 hopefuls!) • Go on the set to see firsthand how each of the directors brought unique strengths to the series • Witness the amazing transformations as Daniel, Rupert and Emma grow with their characters over a decade of unprecedented filmmaking. Plus: Never-Before-Seen Screen Tests of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson.




Disc 1: Theatrical Version of the Film
Disc 2: Extended Version of the Film with 13 Minutes of Footage Not Shown in Theatres.
Disc 3: Bonus Features
Disc 4: Bonus Features including Creating the World of Harry Potter, Part 2: Characters


 Collectibles include: 48-Page Photo Book with never-before-seen images from Years 1-7 and 2 Ultimate Edition Character Cards (Card No. 3: Rubeus Hagrid, Card No. 4: Severus Snape)

Review: We just got done reviewing the Year 1 set of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.  Now, we're delving into the Chamber of Secrets.  You're going to hear a lot of the same things, because its pretty much an identical set.

With this box set we get two new trading cards, Snape and Hagrid.  They're again very sturdy and high quality.  The book delves into the characters of Harry Potter.  These books are more coffee table style, in that they're full of pictures, rather than much for text content.   We again get a digital copy of the film packed into the envelope with the cards.

Harry Potter is a fantastic fantasy franchise with a lot of staying power.  Long after these films are done you'll want to cherish them in your collection.  These ultimate editions are the way to do it.  Years 1 and 2 are now on sale on DVD.  I highly recommend picking these up for yourself or perhaps as a Xmas gift!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars


Links: www.HarryPotterDVD.com

Video Link: Cast and Characters

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Ultimate Edition DVD Review

You can purchase the Ultimate Edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone online here>>

Synopsis: Welcome to the First Harry Potter Ultimate Edition!

Spellbinding 4-Disc Set Includes New Feature-Length Documentary: Creating the World of Harry Potter Part 1: The Magic Begins

For the First Time Ever ... Uncover the intimate details of the search to cast Harry Potter and his friends • See Daniel, Rupert and Emma’s never-before-seen audition tapes • Be there with stars and filmmakers walking onto the set of the exciting first day of shooting • Learn about Chris Columbus’ critical, step-by-step decisions behind the creation of Harry Potter’s world on screen • Look back on an amazing decade’s worth of movies with Daniel, Rupert and Emma in new and vintage interviews never seen before. Plus: Exclusive Introduction by Daniel Radcliffe

Collectibles include: 48-Page Photo Book with never-before-seen images from Years 1-7 and 2 Ultimate Edition Character Cards (Card No. 1: Harry Potter, Card No. 2: Minerva McGonogall)

DISC 1: Theatrical Version
DISC 2: Extended Version with 7 Minutes of Footage Not Shown in Theatres
DISC 3: • Diagon Alley • Tour the Gryffindor Common Room, Harry’s Room and the Great Hall - Welcome to the self-guided tour of Hogwarts, home of witches and wizards in training, and take in the sights. • Classrooms: Defense Against the Dark Arts; Spells and Charms; Potions; Transfiguration; • Third Floor Corridor; Deleted Scenes. • Sorting Hat • Library: Gallery of Art & Architecture; Hogwarts Yearbook; Guide to Ghosts - Discover the many marvelous and mysterious ghosts of Hogwarts. • Hogwarts Grounds: Quaffle and Bludger - Get a lesson from Oliver Wood on how to play Quidditch; Tour Hagrid's Hut - Welcome to the self-guided tour of Hagrid’s Hut, home of Rubeus Hagrid, the keeper of keys and grounds at Hogwarts, and his faithful companion, Fang. • Extra Credit • Interview - Capturing the Stone: A Conversation with the Filmmakers - Director Chris Columbus, Producer David Heyman, Screenwriter Steve Kloves and Production Designer Stuart Craig talk about casting and bringing the novel to life.
DISC 4: • Introduction by Daniel Radcliffe - An introduction

Review: The question that comes to mind is...why?  I should imagine that if you care about Harry Potter at all that you own it by now, right?   It always feels like studios are trying to milk me for more money and preying on my fandom.  In the case of these Ultimate Edition DVD sets, I really feel like they are the exception.  Do you remember a few years back when the Lord of the Rings trilogy came out in these great book-style boxed sets?  Well, this blows them away.

I won't go into too much detail about what is included, since its clearly laid out for you above, but a few observations.  The collector cards are great, they're a hard material and will definately save in the long run.  The extended version of the film was a ton of fun to watch.  I've seen this film so many times, and to add those new dimensions was great.  The book included is full-color and very nice quality.  There is also a digital copy included in the sleeve with the collector cards.  This set looks amazing on our shelf, and with all of the films gettnig this treatment shortly, this is most definately the time to get in on this.

The packaging has a slipcase that goes over the fold out book-style box.  Its all packed securely, no loose discs and no damage to any of the items inside.  This would make an amazing Xmas gift for anyone on your list.  It truly is an ultimate edition of the film

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Links: www.HarryPotterDVD.com

Video Link: The Magic Begins

Tom Wilson: Bigger Than You DVD Review!

You can purchase this DVD online today

Synopsis: Tom Wilson’s standup comedy is a unique and hilarious take on life that had brought him to the top of the comedy world. Know the world over for his classic roles in Back to the Future, Freaks and Geeks, SpongeBob Squarepants, and many more, this hour long, high energy blend of comedy and music – as clean as it is hysterical – will have the entire family doubled over in laughter!

Review: Who?  There are so many comedians out there, how do you even tell them apart, aside from the most famous names.  You may not instantly recognize the name of Tom Wilson, but what if I threw the name Biff Tannon out there?  Thats right, Tom is recognizable as Biff from the Back to the Future trilogy!  Butthead!  I'm sure Tom gets tired of hearing that, but he's out of luck.  Honestly, thats what set him apart from every other comedian out there to get a chance in our schedule of DVD reviews here on the Legion!   I have to say that I'm not sorry we gave him a chance, he really is a funny guy.

Tom's not stupid, he opens this comedy DVD with some material about his famous Back to the Future role.  That really orients you quickly and you identify with him.  What important in comedy is that you create a persona..something people can identify with and care about.  Wilson does this masterfully, he definately uses his resources.   Tom moves on to discuss his childhood as an ackward kid and what it was like growing up.  You soon realize that his role as Biff was terribly ironic, because Tom couldn't be further from the truth.

The DVD features a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer.  It looks perfectly crisp and the 5.1 sound is clear as day.  This disc offers some great extras, such an infamous youtube video Tom made years back and Inside the Artists Studio, a look at Tom's artwork!

The bottom line?  Tom Wilson is funny.  He's a clean comic, so you don't have to worry about the kids overhearing terrible curse words or vulgar situations.  I would definately pick this one up.  In fact, it'd make a nice Xmas gift!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Wolverine and the X-Men: The Complete First Season DVD Review!

You can purchase this DVD set online today

Synopsis: Limited Edition Steelbook Case. DVD package and content is in English and French language. Contains all 26 episodes of Season 1 on 5 DVD's. Run time is 585 minutes. This package is Exclusive to Canada at this time!

Review: Wolverine and the X-Men is one of the best cartoons to hit the air in the past decade. It picks up with the same production team that X-Men Evolution had, without the mandate of making it tween friendly. Not that the show is violent, but it is definately more serious in the story department.

Any fan of this show is reading this review right now and thinking to themselves, what in the heck?! Anyone that follows this show may know that only single disc releases have been done in the United States. I think they're up to volume 3, for that matter. Thats just the key, you see...in the United States. Our neighbors up north in Canada have this fantastic FULL SEASON steelbook DVD set available to them. Another point of interest? Canada runs on region 1, the same as us, so their DVDs will work in your player. You can order this set on the Canadian Amazon.ca (see link above) and select an international address to get it sent to you in the United States.

This DVD set collects all five volumes that will eventually be released as single disc releases here in the United States. I'm not one that enjoys trying to piece together a season, I want my entire season collected in one set. The fine folks at Vivendi Entertainment did just that for us all! I'm happy to reach up to Canada to get the DVD that I want. I suspect that you are too. I hope that this helps some fans of the show and that you're as delighted as I was to find out about this gem.

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Rating: a strong 5 out of 5 stars

Handy Manny's Motorcycle Adventure DVD Review!

You can purchase this fun family title online today!

Synopsis: Chart a course for nonstop fun with Handy Manny s first full-length adventure!
Feel the wind in your hair, and join Manny as he packs up his Tools for an exciting road trip. They re heading out to a fiesta grande Manny s family reunion! But when Pat veers off in search of his own family, Manny s plans take a detour. Can he race to the rescue in time to make it to the party? Filled with new songs, old friends, and an inspiring message, Manny s Motorcycle Adventure shows that when it comes to family, there s always something to celebrate!

Review: I'm always happy to find new Disney releases. I think that parents really struggle to find age-appropriate programming for their little ones. I really dislike shows like Sponge Bob for their mindless humor and violence. When a show like Handy Manny comes along, I have complete confidence that my children aren't destroying their brain cells by tuning in. Therefore, when it gets released on DVD, I stand up and take notice.

Manny Garcia is joined in Sheetrock Hills by his silly tool friends, such as Squeeze the Pliers, Pat the Hammer and Rusty the Monkey Wrench. In this adventure, Manny heads off with his friends to a family reunion. Along the way, a few of them get lost and they have to all find each other and try to get to the reunion on time!

I can't stress enough how much I love this show. When my kids are 10+ I don't mind them watching a little cartoon network, but until then I prefer PBS and Disney programming. I always need more family friendly DVDs. This would be a great stocking stuffer this year for any little one.

BONUS FEATURES
Bonus Episode - A Very Handy Holiday It's the night of Kelly's Winter Holiday Party and Manny and the tools are finishing up their holiday gift making before they go. But when a series of emergency holiday repairs are needed all over town, their celebration plans are threatened and the tools learn that helping others is an even better way to celebrate the holidays.

*A Very Handy Holiday includes 3 fun ways to watch and play using your remote control
1. Fastplay mode – enjoy the movie without using your remote
2. Adventure mode 1 (ages 2-3) – as you watch the movie, use your remote to answer fun
questions about colors, shapes and sizes.
3. Adventure mode 2 (ages 4-5) – move to a higher level with more challenging questions
using your remote.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars!

Kevin Smith Blu-Ray Box Set Review!

The Negotiator Blu-Ray Review














You can purchase this blu-ray disc today!

Synopsis: Maverick hostage negotiator Danny Roman (Samuel L. Jackson) is framed for embezzlement and murder. Just married and unjustly faced with prison, Roman turns hostage-taker to smoke out the guilty ones. Squaring off against him is respected, methodical negotiator Chris Sabian (Kevin Spacey). F. Gary Gray (The Italian Job, Be Cool) directs a top ensemble cast (including David Morse and J.J. Walsh) in a story honed with spiraling tension and volatile action – and unfolding via a dazzling series of twists and gambits.

Review: I remember when the Negotiator came out 11 years ago. It was a time when Kevin Spacey wasn’t quite as established in off-color films. Its a rare chance to see him do a rather conventional action-suspense film. We’re big fans of Spacey around the DVD Legion offices, so we were anxious to see this film in high-definition.

The film is basically a mystery thriller the first time you watch it. Samuel L. Jackson is hoping that Kevin Spacey can help him figure out who in his department is framing him before its too late. The film has a great script, its well-paced and full of great edits. It keeps you on the edge of your seat most of the time. Even after subsequent viewings and knowing the mystery, its still fun to watch.

The blu-ray transfer is fantastic. Its quite clear and crisp, no noticable scratches or dust. I didn’t really even notice any soft spots in the film. Special Features on the blu-ray include: The 11th Hour: Stories from Real Negotiators Featurette, On Location Making-Of Featurette and Original Theatrical Trailer.

We highly recommend this film to anyone that is into action, suspsense or thriller mysteries. Its a great ride!

Rating: 5 Stars

Links: http://www.warnerblu.com/