Happy Endings: The Complete Second Season DVD Review


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Happy Endings: The Complete Second Season DVD Review



Synopsis: Forget who gets to keep the ring -- when a couple splits, the real question is, who gets to keep the friends? In this modern comedy, a couple's break-up will complicate all of their friends' lives and make everyone question their choices. For years, perfect couple Dave (Zachary Knighton) and Alex (Elisha Cuthbert) drew their friends in and held them together. Now that they've split, does this group have the stuff to stay together or have to choose sides?

Review: Happy Endings is an ensemble comedy that airs on ABC.  This latecomer had a slow start, but has really picked up both in quality and fanfare.   I'll keep this review simple...this is a FRIENDS-esque show with lots of laughs.  This one is absolutely modern, inappropriate (as indicated perhaps by the title) and hilarious.  It will not disappoint.

Interest Range: Comedy, TV

Americano Blu-Ray Review


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Americano Blu-Ray Review



Synopsis: After receiving news of his mother's death, Martin (Mathieu Demy) leaves his girlfriend (Chiara Mastroianni) and home in Paris and sets off for Los Angeles to tie up the loose ends of his rocky maternal relationship. Arriving in the United States, Martin is greeted by his mother's best friend Linda (Geraldine Chaplin), who agrees to help him settle his late mother's affairs. As Martin digs deeper into his mother's past, he discovers she had a hidden relationship with a beautiful woman named Lola (Salma Hayek), who he finds at a seedy strip club in Tijuana called the Americano. As Lola recounts her affair with his mother, Martin discovers there may have been more than he ever hoped to know about his mother's sordid past and his own problems with commitment.

Review: Americano is an interesting film.  I wasn't sure what was going to get with this one, but I ended up enjoying a unique film about identity, family and secrets.  The cover will indicate that there is obviously an erotic side to the mysteries involved when a man goes home to settle his late mother's affairs.  This one was definately a great watch and Selma Hayek is beautiful as ever.

Interest Range: Drama

Streets of San Francisco: The Complete Fifth Season DVD Review


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Streets of San Francisco: The Complete Fifth Season DVD Review

Synopsis: Twenty year veteran Detective Lt. Mike Stone is partnered with young, college educated Inspector Steve Keller who has a lot to learn about being a police detective on the Streets of San Francisco.

Review: The Streets of San Francisco was a great cop show that aired back in the early to mid 1970s.  The five season show never disappointed with great action, crimes and acting.  This DVD set features the fifth and final season of the show, with an offering of 24 great episodes.  The video transfer on this one is fantastic and the sound quality is high.  I really enjoyed being able to watch this one, as it was a bit before my time. 

Interest Range: TV, Cop Drama

Ruby Sparks Blu-Ray Review


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Ruby Sparks Blu-Ray Review

Synopsis: Calvin is a young novelist struggling with his writing - as well as his romantic life. Finally, he makes a breakthrough and creates a character named Ruby who inspires him. When Calvin finds Ruby (Zoe Kazan), in the flesh, sitting on his couch about a week later, he is completely flabbergasted that his words have turned into a living, breathing person.

Review: Ruby Sparks is the tale of a writer whose creation comes to life.  Of course, even though he dictates things that she can do through his typewriter, she is aunry and gets into mischief...so the question is does he go to that typewrite to fix every little thing or let her grow and be herself?  This is a quirkly little romantic comedy that also throws out some big ideas about society and ourselves.  Its a great watch.

Interest Range: Romantic Comedy

Something Big DVD Review


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Something Big DVD Review


 Synopsis: Joe Baker has a dream. He wants to do 'something big.' When he needs a Gatling gun to accomplish this, he seeks out a black marketeer. The price he wants for the gun? A woman! So Baker kidnaps a woman off of the stagecoach, only to find that she is the wife of the commandant of the local Cavalry detachment. Things get further complicated when a girl named Dover McBride shows up. She has come to force Baker to marry her and return east, as he promised to do four years earlier.

Review: This fantastic vintage western that stars Dean Martin as an outlaw that is looking to score the best gun tech in the land..the Gatling gun, so that the can rob a Mexican bandit.  Along the way he's forced to kidnap a woman for payment and confront another from his past.  The entire movie starts to fall apart and turn on Martin!  This one was a fantastic film.  I never had the opportunity to see it previously, so this great DVD release was a joy.  The video transfer to DVD is amazing, and it looks fantastic in widescreen.  We highly recommend this one.

 Interest Range: Vintage Western

UNIVERSAL CLASSIC MONSTERS: The Essential Collection


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In celebration of TODAY's release of UNIVERSAL CLASSIC MONSTERS: The Essential Collection, we have an embeddable slideshow of rarely seen images from the films! Even in black and white, these creatures continue to haunt and horrify audiences. Please consider posting this slideshow with any Halloween-related coverage!

The Barrens Blu-Ray Review


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The Barrens Blu-Ray Review


 Synopsis: It's known as the Jersey Devil, the winged beast spawned 400 years ago by Satan himself. Some say this creature still inhabits the dense pine forests of southern New Jersey, where Richard Vineyard (Stephen Moyer, ''True Blood'') takes his family for a rustic weekend camping trip. As the Vineyard family ventures further into the woods in search of the perfect campsite, Richard teeters on the edge of sanity. And it seems that the blood-crazed demon called The Jersey Devil may no longer be just a myth. Mia Kirshner (''The Vampire Diaries,'' ''The L Word''), Erik Knudsen (SAW II, SCREAM 4) and Allie MacDonald (HOUSE AT THE END OF THE STREET) co-star in this twisted chiller from writer/director Darren Lynn Bousman (SAW II-IV) about a new kind of horror that lives -- and kills -- in a place called THE BARRENS.

Review: A man goes to spread the ashes of his father in the woods and is hunted by the legendary terror of New Jersey..the Jersey Devil.  Reactions to this film seem to be mixed, but we enjoyed it.  The film focuses on the horror of this mythical creature, but the movie challenges the viewer with questions about whether this monster exists or is Richard simply going mad?  The answer may surprise you, it did us.  This one is a good watch.

 Interest Range: Thriller

Snorks: The Complete First Season DVD Review


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Snorks: The Complete First Season DVD Review


 Synopsis: "I first discovered Captain Ortega's logbook in a monastery that overlooks the sea. On the morning of February 13, 1634, Captain Ortega anchored his ship behind a barrier reef. That night, they were attacked by pirates. The ship, set afire, sank into the lagoon. Ten days later, the captain was found, delirious, still clutching his logbook. He described a world of tiny, underwater creatures no bigger than his thumb. No one believed him, but you know, there's something about Captain Ortega's story…that makes me believe it's true!" It’s true, all right – just ask the Snorks! In their steam-powered city carved out of coral, these multi-colored denizens of the deep have whale-sized hearts and are up for any challenge – or party – the ocean might send their way. So come along with Allstar, Casey, Daffney, Dimmy, Junior and Tooter as they explore life within – and sometimes beyond – the limits!

Review: Finally animation fans get the Snorks on DVD!  This beloved, albeit somewhat obscure, series from the 1980s ran for four wonderful seasons.  This manufacture on demand DVD from the Warner Archive covers the complete first season, which originally aired the fall of 1984.   This show features the Snorks, an ancient race of underwater beings that rarely dare to venture into space (the surface).   This show is adorable and fun and everything we loved in 1980s Hanna-Barbera animation.  The video transfer is fantastic and all of the title cards appear to be in-tact.  Hopefully, we'll get the rest of this series released to DVD soon.  We highly recommend this one for any fan of animation and, of course, the Snorks!  Our kids loved this show.  Its fantastic to be able to expose them to the great animation of my youth.

 Interest Range: Vintage Animation

WWE: CM Punk - Best in the World DVD Review


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WWE: CM Punk - Best in the World DVD Review

 Synopsis: On June 27, 2011, CM Punk forever altered the course of WWE history with a blistering rant, proclaiming, 'Day in and day out for almost six years I have proven to everybody in the world that I am the best on this microphone, in that ring, even on commentary. Nobody can touch me!' Since riding into the scene as an extra in John Cena's entrance at WrestleMania 22 to defending the WWE Title in main events all over the world in recent years, the Voice of the Voiceless has backed up that statement. Now, WWE fans get an unprecedented look inside the life and career of the most controversial Superstar of this generation. The first-ever documentary to focus on CM Punk traces his rise to the top of WWE, from his early success on ECW, his divisive perpetuating of the Straight Edge subculture, to becoming internationally revered as the best wrestler in the world, and all the five star matches and verbal pipe bombs in between.

 Review: WWE puts out the best wrestling documentaries around.  This one focuses on the career of the controvertial and bombastic CM Punk!  The DVD includes some of his ranting and a bit about him, but more importantly it has some of his best matches..the kind that prove he's the best around.   We get several matches with other superstars, including John Cena, Rey Myterio, Jeff Hardy and more.   We recommend this one for any fan of CM Punk and any fan of WWE wrestling!

 Interest Range: Wrestling

WWE: The Rock vs. John Cena - Once in a Lifetime DVD Review


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WWE: The Rock vs. John Cena - Once in a Lifetime DVD Review

 Synopsis: Once in an era, a Superstar comes along who defines an entire generation for fans and Superstars alike. Once in a lifetime, two of these Superstars collide in an epic confrontation that will forever define their legacies. In this documentary, we trace their individual paths to fame and success in WWE and take an in-depth and revealing look at the day-to-day lives of these polarizing figures.

 Review: We've seen a lot of wrestling documentaries in our day, and most of them from WWE.  What strikes me about this one is the format really differs from what we're used to, which I honestly enjoyed.  This one chronicles the long-standing feud between the Rock and John Cena that started shortly after the Rock left WWE to pursue his film career.  Thanks to the Rock's recent return, they were able to finally battle.  This documentary gives you a behind the scenes look at the year leading up to Wrestlemania.  It was really entertaining and one of the best documentaries on a wrestling feud we've seen in a long while. We definately recommend.

Interest Range: Wrestling

People Like Us Blu-Ray / DVD Review


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People Like Us Blu-Ray / DVD Review
 


Synopsis: From DreamWorks Pictures, the studio that brought you The Help, comes the smart and witty drama People Like Us, featuring an all-star cast, including Chris Pine (Star Trek), Elizabeth Banks (The Hunger Games), award-winning Michelle Pfeiffer and Olivia Wilde. Sam (Pine) is a twenty-something, fast-talking salesman whose latest deal collapses the day he learns his father has suddenly died. Against his wishes, Sam is called home to put his father’s estate in order and reconnect with his estranged family. While there, he uncovers a startling secret that turns his entire world upside down — he has a 30-year-old sister he never knew existed. Complete with bonus material that reveals how people like us became People Like Us, this is an inspirational and touching movie everyone can relate to.

Review: People Like Us is a complicated, but ultimately heartwarming film about a young, cocky guy that learns of his secret sister after his father dies.   The lead role is played by Chris Pine, who we haven't seen much of since Star Trek.  He does  good job playing a character with multiple domensions.  The sister is played by Elizabeth Banks, who usually does comedy roles.  Its nice to see her flex her acting chops in a different realm.  This film is a family drama that leaves the viewer feeling good.  We highly recommend it.

The special features include: • Blu-ray(TM) Feature Film + Bonus
• DVD Feature Film + Bonus
• Number One With A Bullet: The Story Behind People Like Us -- Inspired By True Events, Filmmakers Alex Kurtzman And Roberto Orci, Best Known For Making Big-Budget Sci-Fi Action Movies, Go Back To Their Roots And Make A Small Film From The Heart
• Taco Talk -- Chris And Elizabeth Do Extended Improvisational Takes, While Chris Fulfills A Fantasy Of Shooting At His Childhood Favorite Local Taco Stand, The Legendary Henry's Tacos
• Deleted Scenes
• Bloopers
• Audio Commentary -- With Director Alex Kurtzman And Writer Jody Lambert
• Audio Commentary -- With Director Alex Kurtzman And Actors Chris Pine And Elizabeth Banks
• Select Scene Commentary -- With Director Alex Kurtzman And Actress Michelle Pfeiffer

Interest Range: Drama

Flintstones, The: Prime-Time Specials Collection - Volume 1 DVD Review


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Flintstones, The: Prime-Time Specials Collection - Volume 1 DVD Review
 


 Synopsis: Following a spate of Saturday morning spin-offs, America’s favorite Stone Age family returned to network prime-time with a full slate of hysterical pre-historical specials – no quitting time for Fred! In The Flintstones Meet Rockula and Frankenstone, the Flintstones and the Rubbles travel to fear-fraught Rockysylvania thanks to a big game show win. Fred and Barney soon stumble upon – and awaken – the legendary Frankenstone Monster, who promptly revives his vampiric master, Rockula. When Rockula falls head over batwings for Wilma, will Fred end up having an undead-old time? Flintstones Little Big League sees Fred and Barney facing off as opposing Little League coaches while Bamm-Bamm and Pebbles duel across the diamond. Swept up by competitiveness and paternal pride, their friendship ends up in the dug-out doghouse. Meanwhile, a cop, a judge and Mr. Slate are all putting pressure on Fred to win at all costs – what’s a cavedad to do?

Review:  The Warner Archive has brought us all kinds of great and rather obscure animated features, tv series and tv specials.  This time, they're bringing us some fantastic Halloween themed specials from later Flintstones TV spots.  These late 1970s TV specials feature an older Pebbles and Bam Bam.  The specials are both fantastic and certainly up to par with what you expect from the Flintstones show.  It was great to get our mits on this DVD, because I was just being born when these hit the air.  Thats one of the beauties of these online exclusive production on demand releases is that you can get your hands on really obsure stuff for your collection.  The kids LOVED these and so did we!  This one is a must for any Flintstones fan!

 Interest Range: Vintage Animation

Rock of Ages Blu-Ray / DVD Review


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Rock of Ages Blu-Ray / DVD Review

 Synopsis: "Rock of Ages" tells the story of small town girl Sherrie and city boy Drew, who meet on the Sunset Strip while pursuing their Hollywood dreams. Their rock 'n' roll romance is told through the heart-pounding hits of Def Leppard, Joan Jett, Journey, Foreigner, Bon Jovi, Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Whitesnake, and more.

Review: Rock of Ages is a niche film that has high star power, low plot value, but great musical showcasing.  The film is basically a love letter to the 80s with great music and a backstory of an aging rocker and rock club owner and an up and coming modern young singer.  The film has some laughs, but is mostly about the music.  We get treated to a great stand-out performance of Alec Baldwin, which is fantastic.  This one is a lot of fun.

The special features on this set include: - Rock of Ages: Legends of the Sunset Strip , - The Stories We Sing: Defining A Decade , - Play All , - The 80's Look: Defining A Decade , - It's All About The Moves - Defining A Decade , - Stripping Miami: Defining A Decade , - The Tease: Defining A Decade, - If You Build It, They Will Rock It: Defining A Decade , - Connection to The Music: Defining A Decade , - So It Started In A Bar: Defining A Decade , - Any Way You Want It , - Visit Florida  and - Selected Songs.


 Interest Range: Musical

Jeff Dunham: Minding the Monsters Blu-Ray Review


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Jeff Dunham: Minding the Monsters Blu-Ray Review
 


 Synopsis: Jeff Dunham’s Minding the Monsters brings together your favorites-- Walter, Peanut, Bubba J, Jose Jalapeno… On a Steek!, and Achmed the Dead Terrorist as you’ve never seen them before!  Enter the ultimate haunted house where Walter transforms into something grumpier than he already is! Watch Bubba J rise from the dead!  Meet Peanut’s alter ego, The Purple Avenger of the Night, and his spicy sidekick! And witness Achmed literally dressed to kill in an outfit that would terrify the most terrifying terrorist!

Review: Ok, this blu-ray is very simple.  Do you like Jeff Dunham and his twisted puppet act?  If so, then this one is for you!  This great comedy special is Halloween themed and full of scares and laughs.  Dunham is hilarious and his bits never get old!  All of your favorites are in this one from Bubba to Peanut and of course my personal favorite..Walter. 

Interest Range: Stand-up Comedy, Halloween

Fireman Sam Holiday Heroes DVD Review


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Fireman Sam Holiday Heroes DVD Review
 


 Synopsis: It's the holiday season and Fireman Sam's adventures are heating up! Norman causes trouble baking more than holiday cookies; Sarah and James' search for a polar bear turns into a snowy rescue! Trevor and his passengers find themselves on thin ice and Norman's snowboarding antics leave Mike in a mountain of trouble; Sam shows his firefighting talent when Pontypandy's holiday lighting competition goes haywire. With jingle bells and fire alarms, Fireman Sam is well prepared for the season's best saves!

 Review: Fans of the Fireman Sam cartoon will rejoice at this cool holiday treat.  This 45 minute DVD gives kids a fun holiday-themed adventure complete with polar bear and xmas cookies!  Woo hoo!  This one is great for preschool-aged little ones and a fun way to share the upcoming holiday joy!

Interest Range: Animation, Holiday

A Very Thomas Christmas DVD Review


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A Very Thomas Christmas DVD Review
 


 Synopsis: All aboard for a special holiday delivery filled with friendship, teamwork and fun! Rheneas picks the perfect Christmas tree when he finally stops to smell the evergreen. Charlie knows how fun snow can be and discovers that teamwork-in-the-snow is the most fun of all. Edward gets Salty just what he asked for the perfect story to re-tell -- and Emily learns the best way to be Really Useful. Unwrap the holiday adventures with Thomas and his friends and best wishes for a very Thomas Christmas

 Review: This new Thomas the Train holiday DVD features four new episodes, "The Christmas Tree Express", "Ho Ho Snowman", "Salty's Suprise", and "Emily's Winter Party Special".  This fun pre-school-aged DVD is a fun way to share the hoidays with your little ones!  These shows are fun, safe and full of joy.  We highly recommend this one for kids of all ages.

 Interest Range: Animation, Holiday

Pete's Dragon (35th Anniversary Edition) Blu-Ray / DVD Review



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Pete's Dragon (35th Anniversary Edition) Blu-Ray / DVD Review
Synopsis: For the first time ever on Blu-ray, you and your family can rediscover Disney's classic musical adventure - the 35th Anniversary Edition of "Pete's Dragon" in dazzling Blu-ray High Definition with an all-new digital restoration! When Pete, an orphan, and his best friend Elliot - an invisible green dragon - wander into the seaside village of Passamaquoddy, the townspeople think he's behind a slew of hilarious mishaps. But after a daring rescue, they change their tune and believe in Pete's fire-breathing buddy. Filled with friendship and fun, and featuring the Academy Award(R)-nominated "Candle On The Water" (Best Original Song, 1977), this family classic on Disney Blu-ray turns every viewing into a "Brazzle Dazzle Day".

Review: Disney has been busy transfering its extensive library of children's features onto high-definition blu-ray.  We've gotten a lot of the greats so far like the Lion King, Beauty and the Beast and most recently Cinderella!  Now, they're also moving onto their half live action / half animated features like Pete's Dragon.  Pete's Dragon is a wonderful classic family film about a boy and his secret pet dragon.  The dragon is, of course, animated while the people are all live action.  I honestly wish that they still made more films like this one, I miss the genre.  The film looks amazing in high-def and we're so excited to add it to our family library of great Disney features.  We highly recommend this release to any family and any fan of Disney!

Video:


Interest Range: Animation, Disney

TARANTINO XX: 8-FILM COLLECTION Full Interior Mondo Artwork!! On Blu-ray on 11/20/12


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The must-have release of the year for serious film fans, showcasing one of the most innovative filmmakers of our time, comes home when Lionsgate releases TARANTINO XX: 8-FILM COLLECTION on Blu-ray on November 20, 2012.

In anticipation of the release of TARANTINO XX: 8-FILM COLLECTION on Blu-ray on November 20, 2012 we present you with the full interior artwork created by Mondo artist Ken Taylor.

New Henson Deal Will Bring Gaiam Vivendi Released Fraggle Rock DVDs Exclusive


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THE JIM HENSON COMPANY TAPS GAIAM VIVENDI FOR NEW DISTRIBUTION DEAL

Multi-Year Deal Includes Physical and Digital Rights to Many
Henson Classics Titles

NEW YORK, October 25, 2012 – The Jim Henson Company and Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment (GV), a leading distributor of entertainment and lifestyle media, have announced a new multi-year distribution agreement that will provide GV with exclusive physical and digital home video distribution rights to a number of classic Henson family properties in the U.S. as well as digital distribution in Canada.

To kick off the relationship, Gaiam Vivendi will issue exclusive new DVDs of “Fraggle Rock” in 2013 as part of the year-long 30th anniversary celebration of this beloved series, featuring all-new bonus materials, packaging, and more. Additionally, GV will re-release an array of Henson family titles such as “Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas,” “The Hoobs” and “Animal Show with Stinky and Jake,” along with new productions including the highly anticipated Fraggle Rock spin-off for preschoolers “Doozers.” GV will also make available previously unreleased Henson series such as the BAFTA-winning “Construction Site.”

Gaiam Vivendi will also roll out the iconic Henson catalog across its broad range of digital partners starting in December 2012, allowing millions of fans to experience all their favorite Henson titles and discover new properties as well via their platform of choice.

“Our partnership with Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment ensures that Henson entertainment titles will receive the broad distribution they deserve, acquainting the next generation of our fans with the characters and innovative storytelling that has been synonymous with The Jim Henson Company for over 50 years,” said Richard Goldsmith, EVP of Global Distribution for The Jim Henson Company.

“The Jim Henson Company is an extraordinary company that continues to appeal to generation after generation with its unique family programming,” said Bill Sondheim, President of Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment. “We will leverage our broad physical and digital distribution reach to ensure that new generations are able to enjoy Henson properties in years to come.  This acquisition is an affirmation of our recent acquisition of Vivendi and focus on becoming the leading independent in non-theatrical branded entertainment.”

About Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment
Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment (Nasdaq: GAIA) is a leading producer, distributor and marketer of entertainment and lifestyle media.  With a diversified distribution network that spans more than 60,000 retail doors as well as an extensive digital platform, the company dominates the health and fitness category and ranks among the top three providers of non-theatrical programming. With content focused on film, fitness, sports and family programming, Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment provides sales, marketing and distribution services to many of the home entertainment industry's most prestigious brands, including Discovery Communications, Jillian Michaels, NFL Films, National Geographic, Marvel Animation, Shout Factory, Televisa, and World Wrestling Entertainment.  

For more information about Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment, call 1.800.869.3603. 

About The Jim Henson Company
The Jim Henson Company has remained an established leader in family entertainment for over 50 years and is recognized worldwide as an innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation. Best known as creators of the world famous Muppets, Henson has received over 50 Emmy Awards and nine Grammy Awards. Recent credits include the Emmy®  nominated "Sid the Science Kid," "Dinosaur Train," "Wilson & Ditch: Digging America" and "Pajanimals." Features include "The Dark Crystal," "Labyrinth," "MirrorMask," and "Unstable Fables" and television productions include "Fraggle Rock" and the sci-fi cult series "Farscape."

With additional locations in New York and London, The Jim Henson Company is headquartered in Los Angeles on the historic Charlie Chaplin lot, complete with soundstage and postproduction facilities. Independently owned and operated by the five adult children of founder Jim Henson, the Company is also home to Jim Henson's Creature Shop™, a pre-eminent character-building and visual effects group with international film, television and advertising clients, as well as Henson Recording Studios, one of the music industry's top recording facilities known for its world-class blend of state-of-the-art and vintage equipment. The Company's Henson Alternative brand has recently launched the national tour of "Stuffed and Unstrung," a live puppet improvisational show named one of the top 10 "Best Stage Shows of 2010" by Entertainment Weekly. www.henson.com; www.facebook.com/hensoncompany; www.twitter.com/hensonparents

The Heart of Christmas DVD Review


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The Heart of Christmas DVD Review



Synopsis: Based on a true story of hope and compassion, THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS will touch your heart and bring home the spirit of the holidays. Austin and Julie Locke are devastated when they learn that their young son, Dax, has been diagnosed with cancer. But with courage, determination and faith, they decide to give Dax a one last Christmas, even if it has to be in October. When the community sees the holiday decorations and learns the heartbreaking truth, what happens next is a miraculous outpouring of caring and support. Starring Candace Cameron Bure (Make It or Break It), Jeanne Neilson (Faith Like Potatoes), George Newbern (Father of the Bride), Erin Bethea (Fireproof) and Matthew West (Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter), THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS is the greatest gift of all.

Review: This touching and heartwarming film is the true story of Dax, a little trooper that was diagnosed with cancer.  His family is determined to give him a special Xmas, just in case something terrible happens.  This one is touching, dramatic and certainly a must-see.  Plus, a portion of all profits go to St. Jude's Hospital, so this one is a no brainer!

Interest Range: Drama

Perry Mason: The Seventh Season, Vol. 2 DVD Review


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Perry Mason: The Seventh Season, Vol. 2 DVD Review



Synopsis: Perry Mason, the popular TV franchise that inspired a genre of courtroom dramas returns with the second half of the seventh season. Raymond Burr continues igniting the screen as a brilliant attorney who will stop at nothing to crack the most impossible cases to uncover the truth.

Review: Perry Mason was one of those shows that I used to watch as a kid when I was home sick from school.  In my market, back in the 1980s, they would re-run episodes at noon.  Over the years, I saw a lot of Perry and I came to really love the show.  The series, which ran for a total of nine seasons, sees the final 15 episodes of season 7 collected on this DVD release.  You get a lot more of Perry on the go and less office scenes.  Amongst my favorite things are seeing the old cars and vintage 1960s Los Angeles.  Its wonderful.  The show follows the same formula, it did from start to finish, so if you love Perry Mason, then you love it.   The video transfer is amazing, it looks far better than when it was originally broadcast and re-run on TV, plus the sound is full and booming.  We're happy to add this DVD to our persona library and I'm sure you will be too.

Interest Range: TV, Mystery

Win a copy of Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter on Blu-Ray!


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To enter simply send us an email at dvdlegion.com @ gmail.com.  Good luck!

VR Troopers: Season One, Vol.1 DVD Review


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VR Troopers: Season One, Vol.1 DVD Review
 


 Synopsis: This is the ongoing story of Ryan Steele, Kaitlin Star and J.B. Reese, three young heroes with extraordinary powers enabling them to transform into virtual superheroes: the VR Troopers! Empowered with a technology created by Ryan’s scientist father, these youths have been chosen to defend our reality from the encroaching powers of Grimlord, an evil mutant who threatens to take over the world.

When Saban’s VR Troopers premiered in 1994, it was the first children’s series to take viewers into a world of virtual reality. Now you can see where the highly rated series began, with the first 26 action-packed episodes of Season One!

Review: VR Troopers was another show by Saban, the company that brought us the Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers.  The show isn't terribly different than the Power Rangers..same genre, but this one capitalizes off of the then trend and technological hopes for virtual reality, or VR.  I haven't seen this one in 15 years, so this DVD was a lot of fun.  This is a great show to add to your DVD library and to share with your kids who, no doubt, still watch some incarnation of the Power Rangers.

 Interest Range: Action, TV Shows

Big Bad Beetleborgs: Season One, Vol. 1 DVD Review


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Big Bad Beetleborgs: Season One, Vol. 1 DVD Review
 


 Synopsis: The First 27 episodes on DVD for the first time!  When three kids explore Charterville’s haunted Hillhurst Mansion on a dare, they discover a lot more than they bargain for! The trio find a wild and wacky phasm named Flabber, who changes their lives forever when he grants their wish to become the superheroes they’ve read about in BeetleBorgs comics. However, not only does Flabber grant the kids’ wish, but he also accidentally facilitates the escape of supervillain Vexor and his evil gang of Magnavors from the comic book as well! Now it’s up to these three newly tapped superheroes,aided by a friendly neighborhood phasm and armed with fantastic powers and awesome vehicles, to save the world from the forces of darkness that threaten the peace and harmony of all mankind.

Review: The Big Bad Beetle Borgs was one show in a sea of Power Rangers knockoffs that emerged in the late 1990s.  The show follows the same Japanese action and morph format with its own plot twist that its kids that are turning into their favorite comic book heroes.  The show aired very early in the morning in my region, because it was kind of a lesser known knock-off show, but I found it to be quite enjoyable.  I was excited when I saw that Shout Factory was going to release this show onto DVD!  Its great to be able to re-enjoy shows like these and add them to my DVD library.  The video transfer on this one is fantastic and the show is still a ton of fun.

 Interest Range: Action, TV Shows

Jake & The Never Land Pirates: Jake Saves Bucky DVD Review


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Jake & The Never Land Pirates: Jake Saves Bucky DVD Review
 

Synopsis: Yo ho, let's go! Set sail with Jake and his crew on a full-length, high-speed adventure on the high seas. According to the Never Land pirate code, Jake and his crew must race Bucky against the Jolly Roger and the sneaky Captain Hook. But if Bucky loses, he'll belong to Hook forever! Of course, Hook uses every trick in the book and wins the race! But, Jake and his crew might have a way to get Bucky back. With the help of Peter Pan, the young pirates embark on an adventure across Never Land that includes getting past a fire-breathing dragon! With your help, Jake's crew can save Bucky from the devious Captain Hook! Also, enjoy four more exciting Jake And The Never Land Pirates episodes! Overflowing with music, swashbuckling action, and seafaring fun, Jake Saves Bucky proves that being a hero comes from teamwork, determination, and friendship!        

Review: Jake and the Pirates is a Disney Jr. show that gives kids a journey through Neverland with all new pirates and some familiar faces. This new "movie" special is a combination of four episodes of the TV show. The show is perfect for preschool-aged kids. My son goes crazy for Jake, as do all the littles ones that we know! The show has action, singing and fun that entertains up to age 8 or 9 even. The misadventures of Jake and the boys against Captain Hook and his pirate crew are really well written and very entertaining. We highly recommend this one.  
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Interest Range: Animation, Disney

12 Dogs of Christmas: Great Puppy Rescue DVD Review


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12 Dogs of Christmas: Great Puppy Rescue DVD Review
 


 Synopsis: The dogs of Doverville are in trouble again... but Emma O'Conner (Danielle Chuchran) is back to save them in a song-filled, seasonal extravaganza. Mean-spirited mogul Finneas James (Sean Patrick Flanery) plots to shut down the local puppy orphanage, unless Emma can come up with the money to save it. With the help of some friends, she races against time to put together a musical holiday event that just might save the day. Don't miss the new chapter in this heartwarming saga.

 Review: We're always looking for great holiday family films and the 12 Dogs of Xmas most definately fits the bill!  This film was family appropriate, cute, funny and entertaining. This is the perfect movie to share with your dog-loving little ones this holiday season!

Interest Range: Family, Holiday

Bones: Season 7 Blu-Ray Review


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Bones: Season 7 Blu-Ray Review


 Synopsis: Experience People's Choice Awards nominee Bones* in a whole new way with never-before-seen footage not available anywhere else! While she tackles some of her most gruesome homicide cases yet, Dr. Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) also faces the delicate demands of motherhood, and a deepening relationship with FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz). The thrills escalate this season when a pastor's wife goes missing, shipping clerks go postal, and the squints go Hollywood. But the biggest shocker of all comes when clues left by a deranged cyber genius tag Brennan as a murder suspect. Here are all 13 Season 7 episodes with plot twists, mystery, romance and humor to die for!

Review: Bones has taken the crime of the week drama-comedy to a whole new level with its seventh season.  Ol' doc Bones is now dealing with motherhood and her relationship with Booth, which is volitale at best.   The show stays true to the fantastical crimes and criminals each week that have made the show great, but much like ABCs Castle, the show is exploring its side stories and serialized plots, much to the enjoyment of the fans.  This season shows how well written the show is, that they can juggle all of these new elements that in the past would've been show enders.  We highly recommend this one for any fan of crime of the week dramas, and of course any fan of Bones!

 Interest Range: TV Show, Drama

The Raven Blu-Ray Review


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The Raven Blu-Ray Review


 Synopsis: John Cusack and Luke Evans star in this blood-curdling tale of terror that's as dark and haunting as the legendary master of the macabre who inspired it - Edgar Allan Poe. Baltimore, 1849. While investigating a horrific double murder, police detective Emmett Fields (Evans) makes a startling discovery: the killer's methods mirror the twisted writings of Edgar Allan Poe (Cusack). Suspecting Poe at first, Fields ultimately enlists his help to stop future attacks. But in this deadly game of cat and mouse, the stakes are raised with each gruesome slaying as the pair races to catch a madman before he brings every one of Poe's shocking stories to chilling life...and death.

Review: The Raven is a part murder mystery, part biopic-fantasy tale about the life/death of one of the finest authors in American literary history, Edgar Allan Poe.    The film creates a lofty and fantastical situation surrounding the events of Poe's death and what may have lead up to it.  The movie focuses on a serial killer that is using Poe's tales as his inspiration for killing.  The movie has a dark tone that fits the subject matter and Cusack turns in a performance that is surprisingly wonderful.  I love Cusack, but I was very skeptical about his ability to portray Poe with any quality, but I am happy to be proven wrong.  This is a fun film that will please anyone into thrillers and murder-mystery.

 Interest Range: Drama, Thriller

The Lucy Show: The Official Sixth & Final Season DVD Review


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The Lucy Show: The Official Sixth & Final Season DVD Review


 Synopsis: It's The Lucy Shows sixth and final hilarious season, as Lucy continues to go on wacky misadventures with her reluctant best friend and her cantankerous Bob.

Review: Fans and collectors rejoice!  This DVD represents the long-awaited DVD release of the final season of the legendary Lucy Show!  Lucy was one of the most colorful and animated comedic actors of yesterday.  This season has the show in full-stride and is, in our opinion, the funniest season of the series!  They just don't make comedy like this anymore on TV.  This one is great for the laughs and fun for the whole family!

Interest Range: Vintage TV, Comedy

My First Collection Vol. 4 featuring Robot Zot DVD Review


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My First Collection Vol. 4 featuring Robot Zot DVD Review


 Synopsis: My First Collection Vol. 4 is an engaging collection of stories certain to foster creativity and learning in your toddlers. Your toddlers will rhyme along with Robot Zot, learn the value of the appreciation in Too Many Toys, and be inspired to take small steps that can make big changes in the world with The Curious Garden.

 Review:  Scholastic puts out some of the best DVD releases that we've seen for kids.  In an era where PBS is a political target, educational and quality programming for kids is certainly a concern.  This new collection features a ton of great "motion comic" style stories.  These are tales that are brought to life by animating the pictures.    Our kids couldn't wait to tear this open and watch these great stories, many of which they have read in school.  We highly recommend this one for all parents.

The special features include: Interviews with Too Many Toys author/illustrator and Robot Zot illustrator David Shannon, The Curious Garden author Peter Brown, Fletcher and the Falling Leaves author Julia Rawlinson and Lion and the Mouse author Jerry Pinkney

Interest Range: Kids, Animation

MILL CREEK ENTERTAINMENT MARKS 10th ANNIVERSARY


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MILL CREEK ENTERTAINMENT  MARKS 10th ANNIVERSARY

Home Entertainment Distributor Continues to Build RelationshipsTo Release Popular Franchises and Revamp Catalog Titles

 Minneapolis, MN (October 22, 2012) – October 2012 marks ten years in business for the Minneapolis based home entertainment distribution company Mill Creek Entertainment.   Mill Creek Entertainment entered the home video market in 2002 with a line-up of value-priced 50-movie sets that rapidly became popular with retailers and consumers. Fast forward 10 years, and that commitment to value still remains, as well as the popularity of the 50-movie collections along with hundreds of additional DVD and Blu-ray titles.  Mill Creek has built its business with a focus on product value and the consumer, establishing a reputation of being able to breathe new life into catalog collections and franchises.

 Starting out with primarily public domain content, the company was founded from humble beginnings.  “As Mill Creek has grown, we’ve licensed a variety of cinematic, television, kids, fitness and special interest content from studios such as Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Carsey-Werner and Stephen J. Cannell Productions,” says Ian Warfield, president, COO and co-founder of the company

 Each year since its inception, Mill Creek has experienced double digit growth and will manufacture over 50 million discs this year. With warehousing and pick, pack and ship facilities in Minneapolis and Los Angeles, the company fulfills products to a wide  variety of retail partners including mass merchants, warehouse clubs, specialty retailers, chain drug, grocery and convenience stores.

 “We focus on creating the most compelling value propositions,” says Ian Warfield. “Part of that means packaging the titles at retail for as little as $3 to $10 to drive the best value for the consumer.”

 Through relationships with companies such as Cookie Jar Entertainment and Classic Media, the company has a release schedule of products driven by franchises such as “Johnny Test,” “Richard Scarry,” “The Archies,” “Heathcliff” and “He-Man.”  Mill Creek continues to capture market share and boasts an incredible kidvid animation library.  The company has also made a splash with television programming, distributing such popular series as “That ’70s Show,” “21 Jump Street,” “Roseanne,” “Hunter,” “3rd Rock From the Sun” and “Wanted: Dead or Alive” from companies such as Carsey-Werner, Stephen J. Cannell Productions and others. 

 Additionally, Mill Creek has produced original content for its own line-up of documentary and special interest programming, resulting in a steady stream of bestselling titles. Some of these top-selling titles are America’s Serial Killers, Hollywood Versus the Mob, Up From Slavery and the “America’s National Parks” series.

 Staying on top of the digital evolution of the business, Mill Creek has both ad-supported and subscription based streaming channels on multiple platforms as well as content on iTunes, Hulu and Amazon.  The company has two channels on the Roku platform: a subscription video-on-demand war documentary channel called America’s Wars and a top-ranked fitness channel, All Fitness TV.  Mill Creek also has four other channels in the works for Roku and across 17 other digital platforms. 

“We’re extremely proud and happy to have survived 10 years in a challenging industry,” Warfield says. “We haven’t lost sight of our original mission of always giving exceptional consumer value. We are looking forward to staying true to our mission for the next 10 years.”

 About Mill Creek EntertainmentMill Creek Entertainment is the leading provider of value home video content to the retail and specialty marketplaces.  With over 50 million DVDs and Blu-ray discs sold annually the company has established a powerful distribution network that encompasses over 30,000 storefronts and millions of online customers. The company is relentless in its quest to always provide outstanding content and packaging with amazing value propositions to ensure consumer demand and customer satisfaction. Mill Creek offers a tremendous range of content including contemporary and classic feature film and television, kids’ animation, documentary, special interest and fitness.  Compilations range from double-features to 100-movie collections as well as 10 to 600 episode TV collections.   Driven by its immense library of over 12,000 hours of owned and licensed content and licensing partnerships with major studios and production companies world-wide, the company continues to redefine the value marketplace.  For more information: www.millcreekent.com.

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