Synopsis: The bullet that killed his daughter was meant for Boston cop Thomas Craven. That's what police brass and Craven himself think, but that's not what the investigation finds. Clue after clue and witness after witness, the search leads him into a shadowy realm where money and political intrigue intersect. If Craven wasn't a target before, he and anyone linked to his inquiry now is. Mel Gibson stars in his first screen lead in eight years, making Craven's grief palpable and his quest for payback stone-cold and relentless. Martin Campbell (Casino Royale) directs from a screenplay co-written by The Departed's William Monahan. Gibson is back, taking us to the edge, and into the sinister darkness.

Review: Edge of Darkness was a great BBC television drama back in the 1980s.  Recently, it was remade as a comeback piece for Mel Gibson, and if anyone ever needed a comback its Mel.  Lets face it, he used to be a legend.  Everything from Lethal Weapon to Braveheart to Random and the highly under-rated film Payback, Mel Gibson was on the top of my list for must-see actors.   Unfortunately, his personal life got in the way for me as a viewer when his anti-semitic comments to the police gained him heat and he divorced his wife, with whom he has seven children, for some young Russian singer.  It screams of scumbag through and through, so that makes it difficult for me to be able to enjoy his films, I won't lie.

That being said, Edge of Darkness isn't a bad film.  Its not a bad premise and its well made.  The action is good and you honestly want the character to get revenge for his daughter, although its a little hard to stomach Mel in this role.  Its kinda hard to care about him now as an actor.  He's no longer sympathetic at all. 

This release features the blu-ray, DVD and a digital copy for iPod viewing.  Thats honestly the best way to purchase any film.  The high-definition transfer looks fantastic, although as an actor I would hate it, because it highlights every single flaw and aged wrinkle on their faces!  Its still fun for us viewers.

Rating: Action/Adventure, Mel Gibson Fans, Cop Drama

Synopsis: Witness your favorite Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling Superstars in action on this "Best of 2009" DVD - featuring AJ Styles, Sting, Kurt Angle, Motor City Machine Guns, Daniels, Samoa Joe and so many more!

"Best of 2009" includes memorable matches from TNA "iMpact" and TNA's monthly Pay-Per-View events.

Review: TNA Wrestling is where its it right now for professional wrestling entertainment.  I used to be into WWF as a kid, and I even tuned into WCW during the glory NWO days.  TNA is now shaping up to be a fantastic blend of the generations with their young talent and the old school guys that Hogan is bringing in.   The Best of '09 is a great look back at the year prior to Hogan's arrival and some of the rivalries and great matches that TNA produced.  Its almost like a nice goodbye to the past of TNA, as we look forward to the bright future it now holds.  This DVD is great for any wrestling fan looking to archive the history of TNA or just to enjoy some great matches.  Highlights include Sting vs. Kurt Angle and Desmond Wolfe taking on Angle.

Rating: TNA Wrestling, Sting, AJ Styles

 You can own this DVD today

Synopsis: The people of Lawndale just don't get Daria Morgendorffer. She's cool with that. See, Daria was born alienated, and now she's just trying to make it through high school with as little human contact as possible. Popularity, friends, activities... whatever. Daria lacks enthusiasm, but she makes up for it with sarcasm. Includes all five seasons plus both movies!

Review: Finally!  MTV has released the 8-disc set of the complete Daria animated series, along with the two tv movies that were made.  Daria premiered back in 1997, when I was finishing up my senior year of high school.  It was one of the best years of my life, as I had just met my future wife.  We spent the next few years curled up inside watching Daria whenever possible.  The show managed to skillfully mock everything from high-school life to popular culture and music trends.  Daria's disdain for society was something that was not only amusing, it was completely relevant and relatable.

When I heard that Daria was getting the full series DVD treatment I was excited, but apprehensive.  I hadn't seen the show in many years, and I know from sad experience after sad experience that older shows, especially animation, don't always hold-up.   I am pleased to announce that not only does the show hold-up, but its still just fantastic.  My wife and I popped in the first disc and ended up with a multi-day marathon!   The characters are all still wonderfully vapid and I laughed the entire time.  The only thing of note with this set is that the pop-culture songs of the time have all been replaced, as the rights to put them on the DVD would've been too costly.  It doesn't hurt the show really the way that would affect say Beavis and Butthead with their music video critiques.

Now, if only Beavis and Butthead could get a decent DVD series release, the 90s would finally get their due.  C'mon MTV!  Take a break from those Jersey Shore idiots and give us old schoolers what we want!

Rating: MTV Generation, Animation Fans, Beavis and Butthead Fans, Daria Fans

Links: www.DariaonDVD.com

Synopsis: Destination X is Total Nonstop Action s (TNA) annual high flying event of the year! Watch all your favorite TNA Superstars battle it out live from the one and only TNA iMPACT! Zone in Orlando, FL. See as X Division Champion Alex Shelley puts his title on the line in the revolutionary Ultimate X Match.

Synopsis: He’s a good cop. In a bad mood. Furiously paced and visually striking, Marked for Death puts action star Steven Seagal (Driven To Kill, Under Siege) up against a deadly Jamaican drug posse. Just retired from the Drug Enforcement Agency, John Hatcher (Seagal) returns to his hometown and quickly discovers that drugs have infiltrated his old neighborhood. Determined to drive the dealers out, Hatcher crosses paths with a ferocious Jamaican druglord who vows that Hatcher and his family are now “marked for death.” Widely considered by fans and critics alike to be one of Seagal’s very best films Marked for Death is pure action, loaded with fight scenes integrating heavy elements of aikido.

Review: There are only a few notable action stars that delved into the martial arts genre back in the day.  Steven Seagal is back in the public eye with his hilarious and a little bit sad show Steven Seagal: Lawman.  Now, Fox is releasing the classic Seagal film 'Marked for Death' on Blu-Ray!  

I won't lie, a lot of martial arts film that I watched was bad.  I mean baaad.  Seagal's films actually tend to hold up well.  Marked For Death is a good movie.  His action quality is good and his low-tone acting is unique enough to be interesting.

The Blu-Ray transfer is overall pretty good.  Some of the darks are fuzzy and there is some underlying grain, but its a nice release.

Rating: Steven Seagal fans, Action Movies, Martial Arts Movies

Synopsis: Cornel Wilde (The Greatest Show on Earth) stars as the son of Robin Hood in this lavish Technicolor swashbuckler. William of Pembroke, Regent of England imprisons the young King of England, and moves to repeal the Magna Carta returning England to autocratic rule. Robert of Huntington (Wilde) joins his father and his reunited band of men to save the boy King and England from tyranny. Anita Louise plays Lady Catherine, Robert’s love interest. The cast also includes Jill Esmond (Random Harvest), Edgar Buchanan, George Macready, Russell Hicks (as Robin Senior), Lloyd Corrigan and many more. Tony Gaudio, the accomplished cinematographer (who shot the Errol Flynn version of the story in 1938) once again uses the Technicolor palette to bring Henry Levin’s lush conceptualization of the Robin Hood tale to the screen. This is among the very finest depictions of one of England’s most fabled heroes.

Review: This feature film from 1946 is one of four new releases from Sony that we'll be spotlighting this week.  The new Robin Hood film is coming to the big screen and in honor of that we thought we would feature some of these more classic depictions on DVD Legion for you.

Firstly, I enjoy vintage film.  If you don't, then this may not be for you.  If you can appreciate vintage film, then this is a very enjoyable version.  The technicolor is a bit eye-jarring at times, but its so much fun.  Cornel Wilde is a fantastic Robin and story is a ton of fun.  The supporting cast all do a fantastic job of bringing this version of the Robin Hood tale to life.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis: Naturally you’d expect Hammer Films to make a Robin Hood movie, and of course it would star Richard Greene, who played him so memorably on TV for five years. But, add none other than Peter Cushing as the Sheriff of Nottingham and then have it directed by Hammer ace Terence Fisher (Horror of Dracula), and you’ve got much more than just another swashbuckler. Robin and his Merry Men must go undercover when they learn of a plot to assassinate the Archbishop of Canterbury, and plenty of action and intrigue ensue. Beautifully shot in color and MegaScope, and featuring such reliable British actors as Nigel Green, Niall MacGinnis (Curse of the Demon), a young Oliver Reed and James Bond’s Q himself, Desmond Llewelyn, this is a rare and delightful chance for young and old alike to see a home-grown adaptation of England’s best-loved populist hero.

Review: In anticipation of the new Ridley Scott Robin Hood feature film we're getting some classic examples of the bandit of Sherwood Forest on DVD from Sony.  This film, from 1960, stars the great Richard Greene, who actually played Robin on television for many years.    This film was shot in MegaScope technology, which gives the color an odd hue, as many vintage films get.  

This Robin Hood movie stands apart from the others, as its really a labor of love.  You can see the great esteem for the character shine through in the performances.  This plot goes way more in-depth than the average Robin Hood film, taking his Merry Men undercover to investigate injustice.  Its a rare treat to get a vintage film like this on DVD.

Rating: Robin Hood Fans, Vintage Film Fans, Richard Greene Fans

 You can own this DVD today 

Synopsis: On January 17, 2010, Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling presented "Genesis" live and exclusively on Pay-Per-View. The three-hour epic event featured the return of Hulk Hogan to Pay-Per-View. Plus: TNA’s Newest Talent Acquisitions, “Nature Boy” Ric Flair, Eric Bischoff & all your favorites Superstars such as AJ Styles, Kurt Angle, Matt Morgan, Beer Money, Amazing Red and so many more!

Review:

The pay-per-view 'Genesis' begins with Hollywood Hogan coming to the ring with Eric Biscoff for a discussion about WWE and how he is proud to be at TNA and how he's going to revolutionize TNA with Dixie Carter.  "Whatcha gonna do Vince McMahon, now that TNA is comin' for you, brother?.....or sister?"

That first monologue sets a tone for the rest of the event.  Taz and Mike Tenay provide great commentary, as usual.  These two are absolute professionals. 

The matches are good overall throughout the event.  The X-Division championship is a little more amateurish, but the other matches are pure quality.

One highlight for me is the footage backstage with Hogan talking to 'The Band'.  Its always so great to see Nash and Hall together.  There is a funny moment where Scott Hall and Syxx-Pac do rock-paper-scissors to figure out who is going to tag-team with Nash.

I noticed that Abyss acts far crazier than he is on weekly events these days.  I enjoy that aspect of him far more in this pay-per-view.   The event also marks the arrival of the Nature Boy, Rick Flair on TNA.

The camera angles and filming quality has definately improved since the Hulkster has been on-board.  This pay-per-view is full of good quality full-length matches and plenty of backstage development.  Its definately a good buy.

Rating: Professional Wrestling, TNA Wrestling, Hulk Hogan, AJ Styles, Kurt Angle, Abyss

Links: www.tnawrestling.com

You can own this DVD today 

Synopsis: John Derek (The Ten Commandments) plays the role of Robin Hood’s son in this action-packed adventure. With England suffering under the rule of the villainous King John (George Macready, Gilda), Robin and his father’s loyal band fight countless battles with the king’s tax collectors and henchmen, who have corrupted the kingdom, oppressed the common folk, and brought false charges of treason and murder against the disenfranchised. When the tyrant has been deposed, Robin finally returns to the lovely Lady Marianne (Diana Lynn, The Miracle of Morgan’s Creek) and just rule is restored. Briskly directed by Gordon Douglas (Harlow, Them!), this is grand fun for the entire family, and film buffs will especially appreciate the final screen appearance by Alan Hale, again playing Little John—as he did opposite both Douglas Fairbanks and Errol Flynn!

Review: This feature film from 1950 is one of four new releases from Sony that we'll be spotlighting this week.  The new Robin Hood film is coming to the big screen and in honor of that we thought we would feature some of these more classic depictions on DVD Legion for you.

This Robin Hood film was shot in 1950 and is full of story and action.  It has the atypical happy ending and delivers exactly what you'd expect.   The film is essentially just battle after battle with the end result in Robin's favor.  Its a good time and a fun film for the family.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis: From legendary producer Sam Katzman and Academy Award®-winning writer Charles Schnee (The Bad and the Beautiful, 1952) comes this rousing adventure of England’s most beloved bandit. Iconic action star Jon Hall (Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves) stars as Robin Hood, who rescues Maid Marian (Broadway star Patricia Morison) and her brother from an unseen attacker. Because of their opposition to the ruthless rule of Prince John, their lives are in danger and his impending marriage threatened. So the Merry Men saddle up and ride to Nottingham Castle to save England and true love. Filmed in Cinecolor, the film features Hollywood veterans including Adele Jergens, Alan Mowbray, H.B. Warner, Gavin Muir and comic great Syd Saylor, Prince of Thieves is rollicking fun for all ages.

Review: This feature film from 1948 is one of four new releases from Sony that we'll be spotlighting this week.  The new Robin Hood film is coming to the big screen and in honor of that we thought we would feature some of these more classic depictions on DVD Legion for you.

Now, this film differs from the Bandit of Sherwood forest in a lot of ways.  Firstly, it was filmed in Cinecolor, rather than Technicolor, which is a visible difference.  Also, the film includes a TON more action than the last.  This is definately the one you want if you'd like to see a Robin Hood action film.  If you can appreciate vintage film, you should definately check out the Prince of Thieves from 1948.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis: The Edge boasts an exciting cast, including Academy Award winner* Anthony Hopkins (The Silence of the Lambs, Meet Joe Black), Alec Baldwin (The Departed, “30 Rock”) and supermodel Elle Macpherson (Sirens, Batman & Robin). A plane crash in the freezing Alaskan wilderness pits intellectual billionaire Charles Morse (Hopkins) against self-satisfied fashion photographer Robert Green (Baldwin) in a brutal struggle for survival. They find themselves teamed up against nature and their own inner demons, including tensions over Morse’s luminous wife (Macpherson). Each soon discovers that the greatest danger resides not in nature, but from human fear, treachery, and quite possibly murder

Review: The Edgeis one of those really great suspense films.  Its a nature survival film that stars Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin.  These two oddballs really work well together and you forget that they're both superstars as they battle nature and their own minds.  The cast is amazing and the film is wonderful and in-depth.  

The Blu-Ray looks fantastic!  The scenery is wonderful and the high-definition transfer really makes this film pop.

Rating: Suspense and Adventure, Anthony Hopkins Fans, Alec Baldwin Fans, Nature

You can own this DVD or Blu-Ray today

Synopsis: If you didn't catch David Tennant in the Royal Shakespeare Company's blockbuster stage production of Shakespeare's most famous tragedy, take heart! The Doctor Who star recreates his stage role-praised as the best and most intelligent Hamlet of recent times-in this even bigger blockbuster BBC TV film version, specially shot on location rather than in the theatre, with the entire cast of the original sold-out London stage production, including Sir Patrick Stewart (Star Trek and X-Men films) as Hamlet's murderous uncle Claudius.

Review: I had never had the pleasure of seeing David Tennant in a show before.  I know that he is famous for his incarnation of Doctor Who, but he was new to me.  What gave me faith in picking up this title to watch is the inclusion of the great Patrick Stewart of Star Trek and X-Men fame, as he is a classically trained actor.  What I got in this DVD and Blu-Ray is the absolute finest version of Hamlet that I could've hoped for.

Its honestly hard for many people to get into Shakespeare, but director Gregory Doran has managed to re-invigorate the play for modern audiences, much the way that Baz Luhrmann did for Romeo and Juliet in the mid 1990s.  Tennant blows us away with an emotional and very real (albeit disturbed) portrayl in the film.  He is absolutely mind-blowing.  We figured that Stewart would steal the show, but David Tennant was really amazing.

The film is released by the BBC on both DVD and Blu-Ray.  Obviously many don't have blu-ray players still, and in that instance the DVD is fantastic and a great buy.  If you do have blu-ray capability, then defintely opt for that format.  High-definition is the way to go whenever possible.

Rating: BBC fans, Shakespeare Fans, Hamlet, Patrick Stewart Fans

Links: www.bbcamericashop.com

You can own this DVD today 

Synopsis: Join everyone's favorite red monster for a fun filled story featuring some of the most popular Elmo segments ever! Elmo meets a robot on Sesame Street who is losing his power. The robot is a "Memorybot," and he needs "memories" to power up again. Elmo gladly shares his memories of special times with friends like Jason Mraz, Adam Sandler, Destiny's Child, David Beckham, India Arie, The Goo Goo Dolls, Feist and more. Will Memorybot get his power back? Every Elmo fan young and old will enjoy this story of friendship and treasure this collection.

Review: What do we love about Elmo?  EVERYTHING!  Sesame Street has been a mainstay in my life since I was a kid growing up in the 1980s and my kids still enjoy it just as much today as I did then, if not more.  

This cool DVD release gives us almost an hour of the best of Elmo clips from the show!  Everything from counting to David Beckham giving lessons on being persistant.  What a fantastic release.  My kids are both watching it regularly now.  They're 6 and 7 and they still can't get enough Elmo!

Rating: Pre-School Kids, Sesame Street Fans, Elmo Fans, Kids Shows

 You can own this DVD on Tuesday May 11, 2010!

Synopsis: This season, Will (Will Smith) finds himself in all sorts of hysterical predicaments. He manages to land a part in a daytime soap. He’s put into a trance by a stage hypnotist, who gets him to behave like a four-year-old and even takes a bullet for Carlton. But a life-changing event awaits Will when he meets Lisa (Nia Long). Before we know it, he’s in love, engaged and standing before the minister. Will they go through with the wedding? As for the others in the Banks household, Ashley (Tatyana M. Ali) finds herself abandoning her private school education in exchange for public school. Hillary (Karyn Parsons) prepares to leave the nest. Vivian (Daphne Maxwell Reid) reminisces about Philip’s (James Avery) marriage proposal when they appeared on Soul Train 25 years earlier.

Review: The Fresh Prince of Bel Air was huge.  I mean, this show was way beyond it's means back in the day.  I certainly didn't miss an episode as a kid.  It was one of my favorites.  Its been said that the Fresh Prince gave sitcoms street smarts.  I suppose this is true in a very filtered, white suburban way.  The show was very light-hearted and fun, and appealed to all ages and stations in life.

This DVD release features the fifth season.  The show ran for a total of six seasons, so we have one more DVD release to go.  This fifth season was very entertaining, featuring some of the best episodes yet, such as when Carlton met a girl online and fell in love, only to realize it was his sister and Will decides to get married!  

The show, while often cliche and predictable, was a lot of fun thanks to the charasmatic Will Smith, who has gone on to make quite a name for himself in film and music.   When going back to watch vintage television of all kinds it can be rather painful.  Most shows don't hold up well, the Fresh Prince, especially the later seasons like this one, actually do a pretty good job of retaining some relevancy.

Rating: Vintage TV, Situation Comedy, Family Fun

Synopsis: Lara inspires lechery in Komarovsky (her mother's lover who is a master at surviving whoever runs Russia) and can't compete with passion for the revolution of the man she marries, Pasha. Her true love is Zhivago who also loves his wife. Lara is the one who inspires poetry. The story is narrated by Zhivago's half brother Yevgraf, who has made his career in the Soviet Army. At the beginning of the film he is about to meet a young woman he believes may be the long lost daughter of Lara and Zhivago.

Review: This now legendary film is a five time Oscar winner.  Thats no small potatoes.  Based on the epic novel by Boris Pasternak, David Lean has created a film that not only crams the novel, but actually manages to do it justice.

The setting is an icey Russia during World War 1 and the Russian Revolution.  Its a very important point in history and this poet-doctor, masterfully played by Omar Sharif, is in love with two women.  The film is essentially a soap opera with a historic backdrop.

The blu-ray book release of the film is fantastic.  The accompanying book gives some great information about the film and the high-definition blu-ray is amazing.  The picture is very clear and really pops in some of the scenes with the ice-shroud cabin.  This film is a classic and deserves to be in your collection.

New Special Features:
 Doctor Zhivago: A Celebration Part 1 & 2 (all-new production)

Additional Special Features:
Commentary by Omar Sharif, Rod Steiger and Lady Sandra Lean
              (wife of David Lean) Part 1 & 2
Introduction by Omar Sharif         
Doctor Zhivago: The Making of a Russian Epic
11 Vintage Featurettes                                                   
·         Zhivago: Behind the Camera with David Lean
·         David Lean's Film of Doctor Zhivago
·         Moscow in Madrid
·         Pasternak
·         New York Press Interviews Omar Sharif
·         New York Press Interviews Julie Christie
·         Geraldine Chaplin Screen Test
·         This is Omar Sharif
·         This is Julie Christie
·         This is Geraldine Chaplin
·         Chaplin in New York
Trailer
Blu-ray Exclusive: 8-Song CD Soundtrack Sampler of the Oscar®-winning score  

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis: Join the adventures of teenage prodigy Tony Stark and his alter ego, Iron Man, as he uses his technological inventions to battle villains and save the world! Includes all 26 episodes from Season 1.

Review: Vivdendi released a few single-disc releases of this show that were just going nowhere.  Now, they stepped it up and have released the complete first season, just in time for Iron Man 2 to hit theaters!

In Armored Adventures we're taken away from the movie franchise reality and put in Tony Stark's childhood, when he is a young man in school and has already developed the Iron Man armor.  The show is edited by the great Chris Yost, who not only has comic book cred, but also brought us the great, and now late, Wolverine and the X-Men animated series.  This effort to bring some consistancy across the board for Marvel Animation is much appreciated by the fans.


 The show features 3D cgi graphics, which is a very dangerous area to go into, because so many shows fail with far inferior graphics quality.  Armored Adventures manages to pull it off with a very high-quality production.

This DVD set includes all 26 episodes of season one for the first time anywhere.  Its a fantastic release for kids and adult comic book fans alike.  While the show doesn't give a direct depiction of the characters from the comics, it does take great strides to do them justice.

DVD Legion is changing our format...read on...

From this point forward we're going to eliminate the 'Star' rating.   You see, when I feature a product here on DVD Legion, its because its good.  If you don't see it here, it probably wasn't that great in our opinions.  We like to focus on the positive, and awhile we will point out issues, mostly you'll see happy thoughts here.  If we hate a movie or the DVD release...it doesn't make the cut.

That being said, why then have a star rating at all?   From this point on we'll have more specific recommendations.  If you see it here we obviously recommend it.  We'll instead feature ratings like this:

Rating: Family film, Comedy, Appropriate laughs

Rating: Action/Violent, Blood and Guts

Rating: Romantic, Comedy, Sickly Sweet

Synopsis: Georgia farm boy Will Stockdale is about to bust with pride. He's been drafted. Will's ready. But is Uncle Sam ready for Will? In No Time for Sergeants, Andy Griffith is certifiably funny in the role that clinched his stardom. Wearing a friendly, wide grin, he ambles into the U.S. Air Force – and lots of folks'll never be the same. They include pint-sized Ben (Nick Adams), big-city bruiser Irvin (Murray Hamilton) and a jittery aptitude tester (Don Knotts). Finally, there’s Sgt. Orville King (Myron McCormick), a don’t-rock-the-boat old-timer driven crazy by Will’s gee-whiz efforts at friendship. Griffith, McCormick and Knotts reprise their winning performances from No Time for Sergeants’ smash Broadway run. Breezily directed by the veteran Mervyn LeRoy (Mister Roberts), it’s definitely time for entertainment!

Review: We're Andy Griffith fans here at the Legion.  I spent countless mornings as a youth watching the Andy Griffith show, and I even continued to watch Matlock as I grew older.  I have never had the chance to see 'No Time for Sergeants', so I was excited to pick-up this DVD.  Often these older comedies are the best.

No Time For Sergeants launched Griffith's career as a comedic actor.  The film also included his future castmate, the legendary Don Knotts.   This film is like a precursor to STRIPES, without the post-Vietnam snark.  It has two bumbling backwater cadets that become reluctant heroes.  Its funny, genuine and a great time for the entire family!

Preacher's Kid Blu-Ray Review

 You can own this DVD today

Synopsis: Family, faith and music: small-town girl Angie King leaves the first two behind to pursue a dream of singing stardom. LeToya Luckett of the original Destiny's Child makes her movie breakthrough in this inspiring tale bursting with music (including performances by Luckett and co-star/R&B hitmaker Durrell "Tank" Babbs) and talent. Luckett plays Angie, the daughter of a stern but loving bishop, whose attraction to the hunky star (Tank) of a traveling gospel show takes her on the road...and into romance, heartbreak and the realization that the happiness she seeks may be in the home she left behind. But will her disapproving father welcome his prodigal daughter back? Join Angie on a powerful coming-of-age journey.

Review: The Preacher's Kid is a genre film that I typically wouldn't have bothered with.  Mostly, because it didn't appear to offer anything new.  It appeared to be on the lines of a number of other films in the same veign that I've seen over the years.  I'm happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised with the quality and the content of the film.

The film actually had a decent message intertwined in it.  Normally this type of film just preaches, but this one really advocates that even if you raise your children in a faith that you cannot let them be naive to the way that the world works.  They really have to be able to integrate to their surroundings.

This blu-ray has a great high-definition transfer and wonderful sound, which comes in handy during a few booming gospel numbers.  LeToya Luckett certainly can sing, she does a great job of acting too.  Beyonce definately doesn't compare.   

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars


Links: www.preacherskidmovie.com

You can own this DVD today 

Synopsis: A vibrant and provocative musical filled with love, lust, passion and glamour. A world famous film director reaches a creative and personal crisis of epic proportion, while balancing numerous women in his life. With its incredible all-star cast, amazing performances and stunning visuals, this razzle-dazzle extravaganza will make you long to BE ITALIAN.

Review: This week gives us the release of the musical extravaganza NINE.   This film has suffered from a little bit of brand confusion, thanks partly to the Tim Burton produced animated feature titled 9, released last year.    This film, starring the great Daniel Day-Lewis, is the best thing to happen to musicals on the big screen since Chicago!   In the tradition of Moulin Rouge and Chicago, Nine is both gritty and magical.

The performances are fantastic.  The songs are wonderful and the acting is superb.  A few stand outs are, of course, Daniel Day-Lewis as Italian film director Guido, Penelope Cruz as his mistress Carla and a not so surprisingly sexy debut from Fergie of the Black-Eyed Peas.   The only one that stands out as not so great is Kate Hudson, who is normally a great actress.  Kate..stay away from the musicals please, stick to your niche romatic comedy films. 

The blu-ray transfer looks amazing.  The high-definition really adds to the landscape of 1960s Italy.  The special features on the blu-ray include:

-BD Exclusive: movieIQ™+sync with the "Nine" Playlist: Get real-time information on the cast, crew, music and also email yourself a list of favorite songs from the film.
-Commentary with Director Rob Marshall and Producer John DeLuca
-8 Featurettes
-BD Exclusive: Sophia Loren Remembers Cinecittà Studios
-BD Exclusive: Screen Actors Guild Q&A
-3 Music Videos

 Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis: Elektra (Garner) is murdered by a ruthless killer but brought back to life by Stick (Stamp), a blind martial arts master. Stick trains Elektra in the martial art of Kimagure, whose practitioners can control the flow of life and death and live to destroy the evil organization called The Hand. After several years of intense training, she becomes a hired assassin. Upon receiving a contract for $2 million to kill Mark Miller (Visnjic) and his daughter Abby (Prout) Elektra must make a choice between good or evil in carrying out her deadly mission.

Review: If you're familiar at all with the fictional world of Marvel comics, then you've heard the name Elektra.  She is a vicious assasin that is a nemesis of the blind hero Daredevil.  She was created by the comic book and now Hollywood legend, Frank Miller (Sin City, 300). 

Jennifer Garner portrayed Elektra in the big-budget Daredevil film, which placed Ben Affleck in the lead role.  After the success of her performance in Daredevil, Marvel decided to create a spin-off film for Elektra.  This movie is basically Elektra going on a mission to assasinate a man and his daughter for the Hand organization.  She does the typical assasin with a heart of gold bit and decides that she can't go through with the mission.  What ensues is crazy action sequences, fights and an odd mix of mysticism.  

The Elektra Director's Cut was already released years ago by Fox on DVD.  This blu-ray is simply and upgrade of that release to high-definition.   The transfer looks pretty decent, the colors don't pop as much as you might like, but its a solid release.  Its a fun movie and certainly is a good addition to any collection.

Iron Man: the Complete Animated Series DVD Review

Synopsis: From Stan Lee comes Marvel's complete 1994 animated television series, IRON MAN. Experience every thrilling moment -- from the very first episode to the final climactic battle -- in this 3-disc collector's edition. Witness the action-packed adventure from the very beginning as billionaire inventor Tony Stark dons his invincible suit of iron to battle the villainous Mandarin and the power of his ten deadly rings. With fellow superheroes Nick Fury, War Machine, Scarlet Witch, Spider Woman and Hawkeye at his side, Iron Man faces off against a band of evil foes, including Whiplash... and confronts his own demons, as well. Go behind the armor and get to know the man under the powered suit. This complete IRON MAN collection is a must-have for fans of all ages!

Review: This Iron Man show debuted back in 1994 when the X-Men cartoon on Fox was in full-swing.   A new Fantastic Four cartoon premiered at the same time.  All the while, the Spiderman show is also going strong.  This was a strong time for Marvel animation on television.

I didn't watch this Iron Man show back then, but I have since heard a lot about it, so I was enthussed to see Disney release it on DVD.  This DVD release represents the full series, two seasons.  The first season has a organ-based theme song and its very light-hearted.  I'd even say it borders on cheesy at times.  The second season changed the theme, but the stories got a lot more interesting.  They are a bit darker and more in-depth. 

This series features everyone from War Machine and Whiplash to Spider-Woman.  Its a fun watch and a great addition to any animation collection.  With Iron Man 2 coming out this weekend, its the perfect time to pick this one up!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

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Synopsis:  The world's end arrives in eight days. Will WOLVERINE and the X-MEN discover the deadly secret to stop it? Uncover the truth in WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN VOLUME 5: REVELATION with five gripping episodes. As the X-Men face a threat lurking in their midst, ANGEL goes against his own father to save fellow mutants. But when his wings are taken from him, will he throw away everything for revenge? Next, dangerous secrets await SCOTT in the depths of his own mind when he attempts to rid himself of his memories of JEAN GREY. Meanwhile in the future, XAVIER struggles at all costs to get information back to Wolverine, even at the risk of ROVER and MARROW's loyalty. He must act quickly, before GAMBIT succeeds in his treacherous game of thievery. Because if he doesn't, a power more deadly than anything the X-Men have ever faced will put the world at risk: a fiery entity known as...THE PHOENIX.

Review: Wolverine and the X-Men is without a doubt my absolute favorite animated series on the air today.  It has proven itself to be a fantastic show with high quality writing from the likes of comic great Chris Yost.  I've spoken with Chris in the past when he was associated with Batman and he's a very nice guy.  His writing is bar none some of the best I've had the pleasure of viewing.

This fifth volume of the first season of Wolverine and the X-Men, titled Revelation, is the culmination of a fantastic and lengthy season that has built to a confrontation with Apocalypse.  If you're not familiar with the show, then you'll want to purchase the previous four volumes to get caught up, but if you have watched the show already you know how great it truly is. 

This single disc release features episodes 19-23 of the 26 episode season.  We have one more volume to go and so many revelations are made in these episodes, like the discovery of Jean Grey....ALIVE!  I cannot recommend this DVD enough.

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Synopsis: The original tales of Marvel comic books come to life in Volume 5 of the X-MEN collection. Relive the action of the popular animated series in this collectible compilation of X-MEN adventures. The X-MEN must turn to their arch-nemesis, Magneto, in an effort to save the life of Professor Xavier! Watch the action unfold in the final episode Graduation Day, and don't miss a moment of X-MEN excitement in this 2-disc set, complete with 14 riveting episodes. Complete your X-MEN collection with this must-own series.

Review: The X-Men animated series from the 1990s aired on the Fox network.  It began when I was in middle school and ended its run when I was in high school.  This DVD, volume 5, represents the final episodes of the series.

I loved this show.  I really, really did.  I watched it from day one and although I didn't end up sticking with it until the end, mostly due to aging, it goes down as one of the best shows of the 90s.  The animation and acting still hold up well, although it is a bit stylized and dated, its still so fun to watch.  I had never seen these final episodes, so it was fun to watch and get caught up.

My only gripe with this series is honestly the Nightcrawler character.  There are entire episodes based around him preaching God to all the characters and that just comes off odd in a cartoon about mutants and superheroes.  It doesn't have place in a kids cartoon and would've been better left out.  Other than that, this is an iconic X-Men cartoon. 

The DVD is a great release, very simple with tons of episodes.  You can round-out your collection with this final installment of the classic 90s Fox series.  I highly recommend.

Synopsis: In the spirit of The Game Plan and The Pacifier comes a funny “fish out of water comedy” perfect for the entire family. Hilarious and wholesome, Tooth Fairy arrives on Blu-ray Disc/DVD Triple Play and DVD May 4 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Dwayne Johnson (The Game Plan) stars as Derek Thompson, a hard-charging minor league hockey player whose nickname comes from his ability to knock out other players’ teeth. After discouraging a youngster’s hopes, he is ordered to one week’s hard labor as the real Tooth Fairy, complete with the requisite tutu, wings and magic wand. At first he “can’t handle the tooth,” but eventually learns how to adapt to his new position and finds himself rediscovering his own forgotten dreams.

Review: I wasn't sure about this film.  To be honest, it kinda looked stupid by the previews that I saw, but I figured I would give it a chance.  I'm so glad that I did, because opening my mind to this heart-warming movie turned out to be a very enjoyable movie-watching experience.

Dwayne Johnson, aka the Rock of WWE wrestling fame, plays a complete jerk hockey player that is taught a lesson not only in humility, but humanity.  Its a really nice film that compares to features like The Santa Clause and the Pacifier....even Mr. Nanny (yeah, you remember the Hulk Hogan classic!). 

The movie features taglines like "You can't handle the Tooth".  Yeah, I said it.  Look, bottom line, if you want to be cynical about this film you can be, but its a fun movie that is great for families.  I struggle to find legitimately fun movies for the family to enjoy, so I appreciate stars like the Rock that bring us features like this.  The same way that Vin Diesel brought us the Pacifier, Dwayne Johnson is giving us the meathead with a heart of gold.  I, for one, enjoy that.

This release is a blu-ray + DVD combo pack.  It also gives you the digital copy to add to your iPod for remote viewing.  The blu-ray high-definition transfer looks amazing and is definately the only way to go when making a purchase.  Plus, you have the DVD to give to the kids to watch themselves, while preserving the nice blu-ray for the family collection.

Synopsis: DVD Debut of the Cannell Cult Classic - 12 Episodes of this beloved crime caper! Jeff Goldblum stars as the naive, terminally-square stockbroker Lionel "Brown Shoe" Whitney who fantasizes of becoming a hardboiled private eye like his fictional literary hero, investigator Mark Savage. Ben Vereen is E.L. "Tenspeed" Turner, a fast-talking con artist who is out on parole and looking for his next big score. These two mismatched men are the unlikeliest of teams, yet through a series of circumstances, they form a detective agency. Mixing side-splitting comedy with whip-smart action storylines, this acclaimed but short lived TV series set the stage for future shows like Simon & Simon and Moonlighting.   

Vereen and Goldblum shine in this groundbreaking show created by Stephen J. Cannell. This entertaining and affectionate homage to the P.I. genre is filled with style verve and heart as the formidable duo remain forever at odds in their view of...well...everything. 

FEATURING:Jeff Goldblum - (The Fly, Law & Order: Criminal Intent) Ben Vereen - (All That Jazz) Guest Starring: Henry G. Sanders - (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman) Martin Kove - (The Karate Kid) Richard Romanus - (Mean Streets) and many more!

 

Review: We love Jeff Goldblum here at the Legion, so we thought we'd give this vintage series a whirl.  It was aired back in 1980 and had a short life.  Mill Creek has brought the series to DVD for everyone, but its not a complete series.  It is missing the pilot episode, as CBS wouldn't come to an agreement to release it.  Thanks CBS.  You sure have to hold onto that for dear life.  What is it, your retirement plan?   Seriously.

Anyway, the show is cool.  I think it would've fit in well back in the early 1980s.  Its just a goofy detective show, nothing out of the box, but its fun and that makes for a great watch.  Plus, I love watching older cinema and tv now, the cars and clothing are so dated its crazy!

Pick this one up for some nostalgia or a fun watch.  Its only around $8-10

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Synopsis: For thousands of years, cultures across the globe have generated dark prophecies warning of doomsday scenarios that will bring the world to a cataclysmic end.

HISTORY reveals the most chilling of these prophecies in an attempt to find correlations between today s unfolding events and the predictions that may have foreshadowed them. A broad range of experts deconstruct the prophecies of Nostradamus, as well as those contained in the bible, within mythology, in hieroglyphs and across other ancient texts, identifying remarkable correlations between today s unfolding events and prophesies of the past. Scientific evidence supporting the possible association between these prophecies and corresponding future scenarios will be uncovered, as the connection between the prophecy in question and prophecies from other cultures are explored.

What s behind these mysteriously similar end-of-day scenarios? Find out in THE NOSTRADAMUS EFFECT, containing all 12 episodes on 3 DVDs:

The Third Antichrist?
Da Vinci s Armageddon
2012 Extinction
Hitler s Blood Oath
The Apocalypse Code
Son of Nostradamus
Secrets of the Seven Seals
Fatima's Secret Prophecy
Satan's Army
Doomsday Hieroglyphs
The Rapture
Armageddon Battle Plan

Review: The History Channel produces some of the best programming that I've ever seen.  I really enjoy the interesting takes that they provide and the high production quality of their specials.  The Nostradamus Effect explores the rather absurd claims of not only Nostradamus, but other supernatural sources like the bible and other mythologies throughout history.  This special captured my interest right away by the sheer variance of subject matter.  You can see the listing of episodes above, it covers everything from WWII to the end of the world, as told by the Christians.

These shows are fantastic.  They go in-depth into each myth and examine any possible validity or prophecy that could be involved and debunk any obvious disconnection.  The narration is fantastic and the production qualities are right on-par with all History Channel shows.

I highly recommend picking up this series.  Its one of those that you can pop-in anytime and enjoy.  To own a piece of great programming like this makes DVDs all worth while for me.   I can always get behind something educational and fun.  Thanks again for another great show, keep up the great work History Channel!  Without you we'd be stuck watching re-runs of Road Rules.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

You can own this DVD today 

Synopsis: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE has taken its place as one of the greatest television productions of all time. The landmark adaptation from A&E and the BBC captured the hearts of millions by seamlessly translating the wit, romance, and intelligence of Jane Austen s classic novel to the screen.

With a masterful script, deft direction, and star-making performances from Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE transports viewers to Georgian England, where affairs of the heart are an exquisite game, and marriage the ultimate prize. But Elizabeth Bennet spirited, independent, and one of five unmarried sisters is determined to play by her own rules and wed for love, not money or privilege. Will her romantic sparring with the mysterious and arrogant Darcy end in misfortune--or will love's true nature prevail?

Now beautifully remastered for the ultimate in picture and sound quality, relive the timeless classic PRIDE & PREJUDICE on 2 DVDs.

Review: The amount of Jane Austen films brought to the big screen is astronomical.  This version Pride and Prejudice is one of the most famous, being a role that solidified Colin Firth as a romantic heartthrob in the minds of many women, and in fact even served as the launchpad for his admiration by Bridget Jones in the famous books/films. 

This new DVD release is a restored version that has remastered color and sound.  We own the original DVD release (which cost me a pretty penny!), as my wife is a HUGE Austen fan.  I can tell you that there is a huge difference in quality.  The film has never looked better and the color palet is far more saturated.  

This is a romantic classic.  Its a must-own for anyone that enjoys Jane Austen or just film that deals with affairs of the heart.  If you're into period films, this is the finest example we've seen.  I highly recommend it.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars