You can own this DVD today

Synopsis: Yogi Bear and his pal Boo Boo live in Jellystone Park, where they constantly sneak behind the back of Ranger Smith to steal picnic baskets from unsuspecting vacationers. Yogi made his debut in 1958, as part of "The Huckleberry Hound Show." The character proved so popular, he was given his own show in 1960, also sponsored by Kellogg's Cereals. In addition to Yogi, the show featured separate cartoons with the new characters Snagglepuss and Yakky Doodle. Through 1962, 70 Yogi Bear cartoons were produced, all of them featuring Daws Butler as the voice of Yogi, and Don Messick as Boo Boo. In this Christmas Special, Yogi escapes from Jellystone and hides out in a department store - posing as the Store's Santa. Along the way, he helps a little girl to rediscover her faith in Christmas.

Review: There is a renewal in interest of Yogi Bear this year with the new major motion picture hitting theaters this month.  Fans of Yogi can rejoice, because there should now be a huge push of releases of the vintage Yogi cartoons.  Kids can be happy, because so many of them haven't been able to see these long-lost and fun cartoons!  This DVD is the vintage Xmas special.  Its heart-warming and fun and defiantely great for all-ages!

Links: http://www.kidswb.com/whv

Synopsis: LENNONYC is the story of one of the most famous and influential artists of the Twentieth Century, and how he found redemption not in the public adoration he craved as a youth, but in the quiet and simple pleasures of fatherhood. And, though he wasn't a typical immigrant, his story is certainly an immigrant's tale. Lennon came to New York City in 1971, seeking what every other immigrant who has washed up on its shores has sought: freedom-the freedom to be himself and not 'Beatle John,' the freedom to love without the overwhelming public scorn he and Yoko had suffered in London, and, simply, the freedom to live a normal life.
LENNONYC tells this story with never before-released in-studio recordings, concert film only recently transferred to HD, and a trove of Lennon/Ono compositions-some in versions previously unheard. It also contains interviews with those closest to Lennon during this period in his life-friend and photographer, Bob Gruen; musical collaborator and drummer, Jim Keltner; May Pang, Lennon's companion during his 'lost weekend;'rock superstar, Elton John; and Jack Douglas, the producer of Double Fantasy. LENNONYC also contains one of the most powerful and emotionally direct interviews Yoko Ono has ever given. No film about John Lennon has ever covered this story with the same breadth and depth as LENNONYC.

As the public turns its attention to what would have been Lennon's 70th birthday and the 30th anniversary of his murder LENNONYC uniquely commemorates the life of one of the most important and influential artists of the Twentieth Century-someone whose life and work is as powerful and relevant today as it has ever been

Review: You don't need me to tell you that John Lennon is a musical and cultural legend.  He was an icon, taken before his time.  We're coming up on the 30th anniversary of his tragic death and this new documentary LENNONYC takes a look at the years of John and Yoko in New York City, working on his most interesting and creative material.

This DVD features numerous interviews from Yoko herself to Elton John and others that knew and worked with Lennon during this time in his life.  There is a ton of fresh material to be seen here and this DVD is a treat for any serious Lennon fan.

Synopsis: The Backyardigans: Christmas with the Backyardigans is the Backyardigans very first holiday release! When Abominable Snowmen Tyrone and Austin take Santa’s magic sack, it’s up to the heroic Action Elves to use their terrific toy-building talents to get that sack back!

Review: The Backyardigans is a really fun show from Nick.  The nice thing about this one is that we enjoy it alongside the kids.  There are so many kids shows that are unwatchable and talk down to the audience, but not the Backyardigans.  The characters are lovable and there is a fair amount of humor.

This DVD features a Xmas episode: "The Action Elves Save Christmas Eve" and three additional episodes to enjoy.   The content is safe, non-religious and acceptable for kids of all ages.  We're so thankful as parents for programming like this.

Interest Range: Kids programming, Nickelodeon

You can purchase this DVD from the Warner Archive today!

Synopsis: Spring is here and Yogi and Boo Boo wake up from hibernation only to find that some major changes have taken place while they slept the winter away. Jellystone Park is closing down! No more Jellystone Park means no more tourists, and that means no more picnic baskets to pilfer! Yogi, Boo Boo and their new friends, the bear cub triplets, take off in Yogi’s homemade getaway mobile – the Supercar – in search of a new home. All the while Ranger Smith, bounty hunter Trapper and his hound dog Yapper are hot on their tails! Some familiar cartoon faces make an appearance on this cross-country trip filled with fun, friends and famous American landmarks!

Review: Yogi Bear is an animation icon.  The classic series from the 1960s remains a favorite with now adults and Hannah Barbera enthusiasts worldwide.  The Warner Archive (wbshop.com) is releasing a cool new DVD that gives us a classic 1987 made for TV special feature, Yogi's Great Escape!  This DVD is only available online from the Warner Archive collection!

I sat my 6 and 8 year olds down to watch this one, since they're so excited by the new theatrical movie and haven't seen much of the classic cartoon.  They both seemed to enjoy it, as the film got a few laughs.  They expressed an interest in watching more Yogi in the future, so I figure thats a great sign!  This DVD is a must for any Yogi collector and for any parent looking to expose their little ones to some good, clean animated fun.

Synopsis: Based on the 2003 memoir by best-selling author Jon Katz, A Dog Year tells the story of a 50-something writer (Oscar® winner Jeff Bridges) in mid-existential crisis, who impulsively agrees to adopt a high-strung border collie named Devon. At first, the dog wreaks chaos on a suburban household Jon shares with two older, mellower Labs. But as Jon learns to let go of the hostility in his own personality, he finds his ability to train and communicate with Devon much easier. Ultimately, the experience transforms both man and dog in meaningful, unexpected ways.

Review: A Dog Year is an odd film.  Its one of those feel-good coming of age types of films, but for a 50 year old man.  I suppose thats not completely irrelevant, a lot of grown men could use personality overhauls!   This reviewer included.

This is a heartwarming tale of a man and the animal that changes his life.  He has too much anger and this new dog, Devon, changes his life through compassion and understanding.  Its a very nice film and one that you could share with your family.

Interest Range: Drama

We’re back in business! FUTURAMA: VOLUME 5 will be delivered to terrestrial locations on DVD and Blu-ray beginning December 21, 2010 just in time for the holidays!  The Simpsons genius, Matt Groening, placed a large order of these shiny discs featuring the animated series truly light-years-ahead-of-its-time!  Join Fry, Bender, Leela and the rest of the gang for 13 hilarious new episodes that tackle some of the most controversial subjects in the galaxy...including evolution, mind exchange, feline intelligence and even robosexual marriage.  Bender believes it can happen! 

Enter to win your very own copy of FUTURAMA: VOLUME 5 on DVD by answering the following question:  

• Duplass Brothers
• Coen Brothers
• Nolan Brothers 

 
Email your answers to us at dvdlegion.com @ gmail.com for your chance to win one of 3 copies of this movie on DVD!

Follow Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on Twitter @FoxHomeEnt

Synopsis: Misfit NYPD detectives Gamble and Hoitz (Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg) are sentenced to life behind the desk. They hate each other and the monotony of their meaningless jobs, as they’re forced to live in the shadow of the two biggest and most badass cops on the force (Samuel L. Jackson and Dwayne Johnson). But when those guys go down for the count, opportunity knocks for Gamble and Hoitz. Stumbling onto what could be one of the biggest crimes in years, can The Other Guys step up their game to solve the case without killing each other and destroying NYC in the process? From the director of Step Brothers and Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.

Review: The Other Guys is a new 'buddy flick' comedy featuring Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg.   The film is directed by comedy veteran Adam McKay, who is also responsible for such gems as Step Brothers and Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.  This film exceeds those past efforts both in cast and comedic quality.

The film centers around two cops, where Ferrell actually plays the straight man, and very successfully, to Wahlberg's hothead and wisecracking cop self.  The two are rivals with showboating cops Sam Jackson and the Rock, which are both hilarious too.  Their hardnosed captain, played by Michael Keaton, rounds off a wonderful cast.  The laughs are consistant and the cop/buddy flick cliches abound.  This film is sure to entertain just about everyone.

This blu-ray includes the following special features: "Pimps Don't Cry" music video, Extreme Close Up, Everyone Hates The DVD Guy, movieIQ, The "Mom"-mentary- Unrated Version, The "Mom"-mentary, Line-O-Rama,Deleted & Extended Scenes, Alternate Action, Wasn't That???, Crash and Burn!, Why Are There Brits In This Movie?, Rob Riggle Likes To Party, We Shouldn't Kiss Chicken, Mark Wahlberg's Eating Contest Entourage, and Bed Bath and Way Beyond

We've teamed with A&E to give away one copy of the new Hoarders Season 2, part 1 DVD!

Synopsis: When Swiper tries to swipe the Christmas Star from Dora’s Nochebuena Party, he lands on Santa’s naughty list. To get back on the nice list, Dora must help Swiper travel to the past, the present, and the future to discover the true spirit of Christmas. Will you help too? Filled with original songs and exclusive extra scenes, this all-new Christmas special, exclusive to DVD, will become a holiday favorite for the whole family!

Review: Dora the Explorer is a wonderful show on Nickelodeon.  This show has successfully brought Spanish culture into our children's lives.  Hopefully, this will create a level of tolerance and understanding in their futures, as our Spanish populations in America keep growing and growing.  Its wonderful not only for my children, but for Spanish children as well, so that they feel as though something on television is actually geared towards them and understands them.  The great thing about Dora is that the show and characters are completely accessible by any child.  Heck, my kids have even picked up some Spanish language words just by watching.  Its great.

This DVD of the Dora Xmas special is a wonderful take on the classic Dickens Xmas Carol story.  On Nochebuena (Xmas Eve in Spanish), Swiper and Dora take a trip to the past, present and future to teach Swiper about the true meaning of Xmas.  This is a really sweet film that was released only direct to DVD.  This is a great one for your little ones to watch this holiday season.  You can trust the content to be appropriate and the lessons learned are quite solid.  Also, the new DVD slipcase comes with an advent calendar built in, sans the candy!  We highly recommend this one.

Interest Range: Xmas, Dora the Explorer, Nickelodeon

 This one is out in stores today!  Check out this cool clip!

Synopsis: Dive into hours of absorbing adventures with the release of SpongeBob SquarePants: Season 6, Volume 2.  The two-disc DVD set features 23 episodes of the Emmy-winning series, including the double-episode, “SpongeBob and the Clash of Triton,” that guest stars Victoria Beckham and Sebastian Bach.  Additional episodes find SpongeBob learning about Vikings, getting locked inside a toy store, impersonating his favorite super hero and helping Plankton with the perfect anniversary gift.

Review: SpongeBob Squarepants is a long-running Emmy winning animated series on Nickelodeon.  If you don't know that, you may be living under a rock!  The series is insanely popular among kids of all ages.

This DVD set features 23 episodes from season 6 of the show.  Also, the set includes the Clash of the Triton shorts, which aired on Nick.  The episode quality has really stayed high and the laughs still roll-in.  A few stand-out episodes are "Krusty Krushers" and "Chum Bucket Supreme".   This DVD set is a must-own and a great step towards completing your SpongeBob DVD library!

I even enjoy watching SpongeBob as a parent.  There are a lot of shows that provide little entertainment value for a parent of small children, but SpongeBob really brings me back to the days of Ren and Stimpy and Eek the Cat with over the top humor.  Its also nice to bring these in the car if you have a portable DVD/Tv set-up, as many do these days.  This one is on our Xmas list, and it should be on yours too!

SpongeBob SquarePants: Season 6, Volume 2 Episode Synopses:

Disc 1:

Porous Pockets
SpongeBob becomes the richest citizen of Bikini Bottom.

Choir Boys
SpongeBob follows Squidward on his way to audition for a solo with the Bikini Bottom Men’s Chorus.

Krusty Krushers
Mr. Krabs enrolls SpongeBob and Patrick in a tag-team wrestling tournament.

The Card
Patrick finds a rare, limited-edition Mermaidman and Barnacleboy trading card.

Dear Vikings
SpongeBob invites Vikings to the Krusty Krab so that he can learn everything about them.

Ditchin’
SpongeBob ditches boating school to attend Mermaidman and Barnacleboy’s book signing.

Pineapple Fever
Squidward gets stuck indoors with SpongeBob and Patrick during a storm.

Chum Caverns
Plankton creates an underground restaurant that threatens to put the Krusty Krab out of business.

Grandpappy the Pirate
Mr. Krabs’ granddad is coming to town!  But instead of being excited, Mr. Krabs is nervous because his swarthy pirate granddad thinks that Mr. Krabs is a pirate, too.

Cephalopod Lodge
When SpongeBob finds out that Squidward is a member of a secret society, SpongeBob decides he wants to join, too!  The only problem is that the society is just for fish with tentacles.

Shuffleboarding
SpongeBob and Patrick get carried away when they fill in for Mermaidman and Barnacleboy.

Professor Squidward
Squidward poses as the teacher at a prestigious music school. But SpongeBob and Patrick show up and nearly blow his cover.

Disc 2:

Pets or Pests
SpongeBob adopts a stray worm, which soon gives birth to a litter of baby worms.

Komputer Overload
Plankton tries to replace his computer wife, Karen, with a new line of Krabby Patty-stealing robots.

Gullible Pants
Mr. Krabs leaves SpongeBob in charge of the Krusty Krab for 15 minutes.

Overbooked
SpongeBob triple-books his schedule, and does his best to be at all three events at the same time.

No Hat for Pat
Mr. Krabs offers Patrick a job as a sign-holder.

Toy Store of Doom
SpongeBob and Patrick spend the night locked in a toy store.

The Clash of Triton
King Neptune is celebrating his birthday at the Krusty Krab, and SpongeBob wants to make sure all his friends and family are there, including his son, Triton. But Neptune and Triton don’t get along, so when SpongeBob brings Triton to the party sparks begin to fly.

Sand Castles in the Sand
A friendly day of building sand castles soon turns into all out war when SpongeBob and Patrick use their sand creations to battle each other.

Shell Shocked
When Gary’s shell breaks, SpongeBob tries to find him a replacement.

Chum Bucket Supreme
Plankton hires Patrick to create advertising slogans for the Chum Bucket.

Single Cell Anniversary
SpongeBob helps Plankton find the perfect anniversary gift for Karen.

Synopsis: A&E takes a dramatic look inside the lives of people struggling to overcome compulsive hoarding in season two of Hoarders. The #1 nonfiction series follows people whose inability to part with their belongings is so out of control that they are on the verge of a personal crisis.

Whether they're facing eviction, the loss of their children, jail time, or divorce, these compulsive hoarders are desperately in need of help. In fly-on-the-wall style, A&E is there to document the drama as experts work to put each on the road to recovery. But cleaning is just the first step, and healing is not guaranteed. For some, throwing away even the tiniest possession a sponge, a button, an empty box is so painful that they won t be able to complete the cleaning process. For others, professional help and an organizer's guidance give them the strength to recover. At the end of each episode find out who has been able to keep their hoarding behavior at bay and who, despite help, is still lost inside this painful disease.

This DVD set includes the first seven addictive episodes of the second season.

Review: Hoarders has become a huge phenomenon in American culture. Ever since A&E premiered the show's first season last year, Hoarding has been brought to the forefront.  A lot of people realized that they were, had tendencies of or knew someone that was a Hoarder.  Its a form of mental illness that was otherwise unknown to the general public.  That is one of the great things about documentary television, it really can bring education and understanding to things that people don't typically experience.  You hope that the show brings some compassion from viewers and not just sensational watching.

Season two has been much anticipated and it has yet to disappoint! We tune in every Monday night in our home.  Its not to be missed.  The show is SO huge that A&E has opted to release the first half of season two on DVD!  This one would make an excellent Xmas gift for any fan of the show or that messy person in your life.  Hint, hint!

We'll be tuning into the rest of season two and in the meantime, we have our DVDs to turn to!  Watch the DVD Legion site for a special chance to win a FREE copy of this title!

DISC 1: Augustine / Judi and Gail / Chris and Dale / Bob and Richard

DISC 2: Julie and Shannon / Deborah and Jim / Linda and Todd / Bonus 

The special features on this DVD include: Additional Footage

Interest Range: Documentary, Hoarding, Mental Illness, A&E

Synopsis: By the mid-1980s, the fabled animation studios of Walt Disney had fallen on hard times. The artists were polarized between newcomers hungry to innovate and old timers not yet ready to relinquish control. These conditions produced a series of box-office flops and pessimistic forecasts - maybe the best days of animation were over. Maybe the public didn't care. Only a miracle or a magic spell could produce a happy ending. Waking Sleeping Beauty is no fairy tale. It's the true story of how Disney regained its magic with a staggering output of hits - "The Little Mermaid," "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin," "The Lion King," and more - over a 10-year period.

Review: This is the final of three Disney documentaries we'll be reviewing this week.  This one, titled "Waking Sleeping Beauty" is an in-depth look at the recent glory era of 1984-94 where Eisner and Roy Disney were in charge!  After 1994 Disney went down a spiral again until it recently allowed Pixar and John Lasseter to take over, but back in the day they pumped out hit after hit that revitalized the company and animation in general.  What would kids have done without new classics like the Little Mermaid, Aladdin and the Lion King?!  This is my favorite of the three new documentaries, it goes in-depth into this era, which is one of my personal favorites, and really sheds light on the inner-workings and struggles of the company.

The special features include: Why Wake Sleeping Beauty? – Overview featurette, Untold Bedtime Stories – Deleted scenes from the feature, The Sailor, the Mountain Climber, the Artist and the Poet – Celebrating Roy Disney, Frank Wells, Joe Ranft, and Howard Ashman, Studio Tours – Randy’s tours, Roger Rabbit studio, Oliver studio, and the tour we shot at ARL, A Reunion – Rob Minkoff and Kirk Wise, Walt - What would Walt do AND compare Walt’s era and this era, 3 webisode shorts, Gallery – Photos, caricatures, and art from the era.

Synopsis: Magic is everywhere in Disney's The Sorcerer's Apprentice-the fun family adventure from the creators of National Treasure. Balthazar Blake (Nicolas Cage) is a modern-day sorcerer with his hands full defending Manhattan against dark forces. When a seemingly average kid shows hidden potential, Balthazar takes his reluctant recruit on a crash course in the art and science of magic to become the ultimate sorcerer's apprentice. Experience more extraordinary thrills, heart-stopping action and spectacular special effects than you can imagine as these unlikely partners show us that the real world is far more magical than we ever knew!

Review: The Sorcerer's Apprentice is Disney's latest live-action effort and after the mixed reception of the Prince of Persia we were eager to check this one out.  We don't get to the theater that often, so our first viewing of Apprentice is on blu-ray high-definition.   This set comes with a blu-ray and DVD.

The film is largely a showcase for the special effects that Disney is capable of.  Its all eye-candy and its well worth it!   In the age of Harry Potter, the Sorcerer's Apprentice holds its own in effects and action, if not in plot.  The script is solid and the acting performances are great, with great turn-ins by Nick Cage, Alfred Molina and Monica Bellucci.

The film is basically a battle between two of Merlin's apprentices.  A young student that has inherited the powers of Merlin gets caught in the middle and a ton of action and adventure ensue.  Its a wonderful film and a great watch!  We highly recommend this one.

Interest Range: Disney, Fantasy

Synopsis: Walt Disney's animated musical masterpiece is an extravaganza of sight and sound-now brilliantly restored for the first time ever in high definition! Blu-ray technology fi nally allows you to experience Fantasia-and Fantasia 2000, the triumphant classic it inspired-the way Walt envisioned! Plus, for the first time ever on Blu-ray, experience the 2003 Academy Award®-nominated animated short Destino-the extraordinary collaboration between Walt Disney and legendary artist Salvador Dali! 

Revealing new bonus features and commentary bring the Fantasia experience to life, allowing generations of moviegoers all over the world to enjoy this timeless classic like never before. See the music come to life, hear the pictures burst into song and experience the excitement that is Fantasia over and over again.

Review: Fantasia is one of the time-honored classic Disney films.  Not only as a Disney film, but as an extraordinary feat of animation.

Now, Disney has released the original Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 in one blu-ray + DVD combo pack!  There is a blu-ray and a DVD of each of the two films.  One of the greatest treasures of this Fantasia release is the inclusion of the Disney animated short Destino.  Destino was a collaboration between Walt Disney and Salvador Dali from the 1940s.  Unfortunately, due to the financial constraints placed on the company by WWII, the production never finished.  In 1999 Roy Disney discovered some footage and the storyboards and worked to complete the short.  Now, you can own it for the first time!  And its absolutely stunning.  This alone is worth the cost of this set, but include the fact that two feats of animation, Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 are here in high-definition for the first time?!   There is no question that this is one of the best Disney releases in awhile!  The films both look stunning in high-definition, so pick this bonus feature-packed set up today!

Blu-Ray Disc Bonus Features
• 2003 Academy-Award Nominated Short Destino (Destino Rated PG)
• Feature length documentary Dali & Disney: A Date With Destino explores the relationship of Disney and Dali and how this piece came to fruition 50 years years after its inception
• The Schultheis Notebook: A Disney Treasure - newly discovered detailed Fantasia production notes shed light on special effects wizardry
• Disney Virtual Vault - BD Live feature
• Musicana - Walt's inspiration for a sequel
• Disney Family Museum - Explore the new Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, California with Walt's daughter Diane Disney-Miller
• Interactive Art Gallery
• Audio commentaries
• Disney View

DVD Bonus Features
• Musicana - Walt's inspiration for a sequel
• Disney Family Museum - Explore the new Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, California with Walt's daughter Diane Disney-Miller
• Audio commentaries

Interest Range: Disney, Mickey Mouse, Classic Animation

Enjoy the enchantment under the sea with your entire family, as animated triumph THE DOLPHIN: STORY OF A DREAMER dives onto DVD December 7th, from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Swim along on a magical journey of destiny and self-discovery, based on Sergio Bambarén’s novel.

Daniel is a little dolphin with big dreams, living in a world where dreams are forbidden. He ventures beyond the safety of his pod and follows his heart into the unknown, in search of the true purpose of life. The journey won’t be easy – he will encounter friends and enemies, paradise and danger, and he must use his heart to navigate the uncharted waters ahead.
A heart-warming, coming-of-age adventure, THE DOLPHIN: STORY OF A DREAMER will make a splash with audiences both young and old and encourages viewers the importance of following their dreams and staying true to their selves. Explore this mystical underworld with a delightful animated treasure that the whole family will cherish.
 

To live the dream and enter to win your own copy of THE DOLPHIN: STORY OF A DREAMER on DVD, simply answer the following question:
 

Who is the dolphin with big dreams?
-Daniel
-Bobby
-Whitney 

Enjoy this coloring sheet for the kids, courtesy of 20th Century Fox and DVD Legion! 

Synopsis: The Boys: The Sherman Brothers’ Story is an intimate journey through the lives of Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman, the astoundingly prolific, Academy Award®-winning songwriting team that defined family musical entertainment for five decades with unforgettable songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocous” from Mary Poppins, “I Wanna Be Like You” from The Jungle Book and the most translated song ever written "It’s a Small World (After All)" from the Disneyland attraction.  The feature-length documentary, conceived, produced and directed by two of the songwriters’ sons, take audiences behind the scenes of the Hollywood magic factory and offers a rate glimpse of a unique creative process at work.  It also explores a deep and longstanding rift that has kept the brothers personally estranged throughout much of their unparalleled professional partnership

Review: This film is one of three new Disney-themed documentaries that have just been released on DVD.   This one focuses on the song-writing duo the Sherman Brothers.  They wrote music for everything from Mary Poppins to the Jungle Book.  Their musical genius is clear from their library of achievements, but this documentary feature takes you deep inside their world and personalities for a fun look into two guys that work relatively behind the scenes.   This is a great documentary and its packed with extras.

The special features on this DVD include: Why They're "The Boys", Disney Studios in the '60s, Casting Mary Poppins, Theme Parks – A look at their theme park music songbook and how they went about composing a song for a ride, Roy Williams - A Disney Animator and also famous for being on the original Mickey Mouse Club, we learn through his artwork some of the stories of what it was like to work in the Animation Building in the 1960’s, Bob's Art:  A look at Bob Sherman’s other passion, his artwork, Celebration:  Testimonials from celebrities and Hollywood legends, Sherman Brother’s Jukebox:  A collection of Sherman Brothers songs and the stories behind them including: “Tall Paul”, “Chim Chim Cher-ee”, “Feed the Birds”, “There's A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow”, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”, and more.

Synopsis: For ten weeks in 1941, Walt Disney, his wife Lilly, and sixteen colleagues from his studio visited nations in Latin America to gather story material for a series of films with South American themes.  The feature documentary film Walt & El Grupo uses this framing device to explore inter-American relations, provide a rare glimpse into the artists who were part of the magic of Disney’s “golden age” and give an unprecedented look at the 39 year-old Walt Disney during one of the most challenging times of his entire life.

Review: There are three new Disney-themed documentaries released recently.  The one we're going to look at today is Walt and El Grupo.  This documentary is based on the 1941 Disney goodwill tour to South America.  Nelson Rockefeller had asked Walt to go as a way to promote the American portion of the axis and create some positive sentiment.  Disney was going through a very hard time at the moment and this tour ended up bringing to life some very original animation, such as The Three Caballeros.  This documentary really goes in-depth with original footage of the tour and gives a ton of in-depth information that any hardcore Disney fan will enjoy.  This is not just a piece of animation history, but American history.

The special features on this DVD include: Audio Commentary - Director Theodore Thomas and Historian J.B. Kaufman, Photos In Motion - How the photos literally came to life, From The Director’s Cut – 3 different segments taking you deeper into the story, Saludos Amigos – Original theatrical version, Original Theatrical Trailers: Saludos Amigos (1942); The Three Caballeros (1944)

Interest Range: Walt Disney, Documentary

Synopsis: In the year 1999, a spectacular explosion at a lunar nuclear waste dump sends the moon out of Earth’s orbit. In this seminal sci-fi series from producer Gerry Anderson (Thunderbirds, UFO), the men and women of Moonbase Alpha are suddenly propelled on a treacherous journey across the universe in search of extraordinary new worlds. Left with no way home, the Earthling citizens are forced to embark upon the greatest adventure of their lives, encountering bizarre life forms and strange phenomena as they struggle to survive among the awe-inspiring wonders of outer space.

All 24 first season episodes of this acclaimed space adventure have been restored in stunning high definition and presented with newly-created 5.1 surround soundtracks, and hours of brand-new bonus features.

With its progressive plotlines, an outstanding cast, and astonishing special effects from Oscar® winner Brian Johnson (Alien, The Empire Strikes Back), SPACE: 1999 has secured its place as one of the most thought-provoking series of the 20th century—and beyond.

Review: Space: 1999 was a mid-1970s science fiction television show.   This british television drama was a bit ahead of my time and across the pond, so this is my first time watching it, though I had heard of it before through the grapevine.  The series had a very high production value, due to its high budget for the time.  The stories were very grim and taken seriously and the ship models were fantastic for the pre-Star Wars era.    This show was the first true space opera.   The show looks fantastic in blu-ray high-defintition.  There are only two seasons of the show, so you can get the first half of the complete series now.  This one would make a great Xmas gift for the sci-fi fan in your life.

DISC 1: Breakaway / Matter of Life and Death / Black Sun / Ring Around the Moon / Earthbound
DISC 2: Another Time, Another Place / Missing Link / Guardian of Piri / Force of Life / Alpha Child
DISC 3: The Last Sunset / Voyager’s Return / Collision Course / Death’s Other Dominion / The Full Circle
DISC 4: End Of Eternity / War Games / The Last Enemy / The Troubled Spirit / Space Brain
DISC 5: The Infernal Machine / Mission Of The Darians / Dragon’s Domain / Testament Of Arkadia
DISC 6: Bonus Features 

The bonus features on this blu-ray set include: 5.1 surround sound audio for each episode, along with the original mono, Audio commentaries, Music-only tracks, Behind-the-scenes featurettes
Episodic image galleries for all episodes, Trailers, Textless titles
Barry Gray’s theme music demo, Alternate opening/closing titles
Martin Landau and Barbara Bain US premier intro and outro, SFX plates and deleted SFX scenes with music track

Watch DVD Legion for your chance to win a FREE copy of this blu-ray set!

 You can own this DVD today

Synopsis: Christopher Eccleston (Doctor Who, Heroes) stars as one of the most enduring and enigmatic figures of the 20th Century, John Lennon, in this riveting drama. One quarter of “The Fab Four,” peace activist, visual artist, and author, John Lennon was a man whose personal life was never short on drama, intrigue and eventually, conspiracy. Thirty years after his death, Lennon Naked presents an inside look at the hugely popular musician as he moved from a Beatle to an icon. It covers a period of wildly fluctuating fortunes from 1964 to 1971, a time of worldwide adulation at one extreme but a combination of frustration and despair at the other. From the death of father-figure and manager Brian Epstein, his break-up with first wife Cynthia and his fascinating love affair with Yoko Ono, through to his spiraling drug use and decision to leave England for New York, this is the story of an artist destroying everything to find himself.

Review: There are a few Lennon DVDs coming out this month.  One of our favorites is the BBC biopic Lennon Naked.  This is certainly no biography, as hardcore Lennon fans will note, but rather a fictional account of his life.  There are some things that are made more sensational, and in fact things that are just plain made-up, but its a fun film.

Lennon is portrayed geniusly by Christopher Eccleston.  He does an amazing job of really getting inside the characters head and he exudes that bizarre confidence that surrounded Lennon to his last days.  This is another great offering from the BBC and its a must-have for any Beatles or Lennon fan.

Links: www.bbcamericashop.com

Interest Range: John Lennon, The Beatles

Synopsis: World-famous superstar Hannah Montana has been living a double life as Malibu teen Miley Stewart?! Say what, say what? In the much anticipated, 1-hour episode from the all-new season, Hannah Montana Forever, the whole world will watch as Hannah takes the wig off…for good! This is the must-have series collection that includes all of Hannah’s biggest moments when she takes off the wig and shares her true identity.

Review: Hannah Montana remains a cultural pop icon for kids and tweens around the world.  This new series, Hannah Montana Forever, marks the end of an era.  Hannah will reveal herself to the world in the end.  Turns out, you can spoil it and buy this DVD for yourself in advance!!!  It also includes a few more episodes to watch, but to see the exciting one hour series finale already is such a treat!  We highly recommend this one.  Maybe a nice Xmas surprise?

Interest Range: Disney Channel, Hannah Montana

Synopsis: Big screen superstars Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz come together in this fun, action-packed thrill-ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a small-town girl named June (Diaz) meets a mysterious stranger, she thinks she's found the man of her dreams. But she soon discovers he's a fugitive super-spy, who thrusts her into a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase that spans the globe. As the bullets and sparks fly, June must decide if her "Knight" in shining armor is a dangerous traitor or the love of her life.

Review: Knight and Day is the latest action thriller starring Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise.  The film is high-octane and fast-pased as the two run from federal agents in an attempt to find justice.  Its exactly what you might expect from this type of film.  Cameron Diaz does a nice job in her role.  Tom Cruise plays Tom Cruise, like he always does.  If you're a fan of Cruise, then this film will be right on the money for you.  Lots of firefights and running for their lives.  This one delivers the summer blockbuster style action in spades!

The film looks best in blu-ray high-definition, so we definately recommend picking up the combo pack!

The special features on this set include:

Interest Range: Action / Adventure

Synopsis: In an age of plunder and greed, the richest gold strike in American History draws a throng of restless misfits to an outlaw settlement where everything--and everyone--has a price. Welcome to Deadwood...a hell of a place to make your fortune.

Review: The western is dead.  It has been for a long time.  Even when it was "good" it was a somewhat bizarre parody that underrated the grit of the era, while focusing on a rather obtuse, black and white view of good and evil.  The first glimmer of hope for the western came years ago with Tombstone.  Since, its been a barren wasteland.  Then, HBO saved us with the series Deadwood.  You have likely heard of Deadwood, even if you haven't seen it.  The series brought a lot of attention and acclaim when it was on the air.  Once you watch this new blu-ray release of the show...you'll know why.


Set in a settling town named Deadwood, South Dakota, the series is full of what can only be explained as likely the best look back into the old west.  No glamor or intrigue, just hope, mixed with fear and despair.  It was life.  There was vast lawlessness and a chaos to the time that provides the viewer with a great visual backdrop.  The dialogue is lengthy, but largely ignorant, as it would've been, interlaced with almost constant swearing and vulgarity.   It really adds to the feel of the characters and sets the show apart from other western efforts.


Deadwood looks amazing on blu-ray.  The high-definition gives it a real-life feel that adds to the grit and grime of the era.  Its an amazing new boxed set and the best way to own this HBO hit show.  We highly recommend this.  It would be an amazing Xmas present.

Interest Range: HBO, Westerns

Synopsis: Disney’s unbeatable and irresistible talking dogs are back – in an all-new holiday movie for the whole family, with THE SEARCH FOR SANTA PAWS.  Debuting on Blu-ray hi-def and DVD on November 23, 2010 just in time for Thanksgiving (US 11/25) and kicking off the holiday season around the world, the heartwarming family adventure joins the legacy of great dog-filled tales from the creators of the “Buddies” films, the most popular live-action direct-to-DVD franchise ever.

Review: Disney is famous for being a safe place for parents to find quality entertainment for many age groups from toddlers to tweens and beyond.  The buddies series films (Snow Buddies, Space Buddies etc.) were all birthed from the mid-90s hit "Air Bud".  Ever since they have been carrying on the tradition of these fun-loving puppies and the kids love it!  This latest feature, "The Search for Santa Paws" is a prequel to the buddies movies.

The Search for Santa Paws is at times very heartwarming and other times a little intimidating.  Its certainly not a film for very little toddlers.  I would say your child, depdending on their temperment of course, should be at least in the first grade or beyond to enjoy this film.  It has a few, not scary moments, but certainly grim.  Its not all happy go-lucky.  Much in the way that Lion King or Bambi uses extreme circumstances to tell a life story, Santa Paws gives us this.  Its a wonderful film and definately one that should be enjoyed this holiday season.

The film comes in a great DVD + Blu-Ray combo pack.  The high-definition blu-ray is a great kid-proof way for the family to enjoy movies together and you can always let the kids take the DVD in the car or their room!

The special features on this set include: Bonus Features Include: Sing Along To Christmas Carols With The Buddies, Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town Music Video, Animated Pop-Up Book, Sing-Along Mode and deleted scenes.

Synopsis: From Baz Luhrmann, the director of the award-winning hits Romeo + Juliet and Moulin Rouge! comes the hilariously funny romantic comedy that will leave you singing, laughing and cheering for more. Experience the magical story of a championship ballroom dancer who's breaking all the rules in a fantastic new special edition, complete with never-before-seen bonus features! A hit with fans and critics all across the globe, Strictly Ballroom will hold you tight and dance straight into your heart. Revisit this high-stepping comedy classic with a new and exclusive documentary, featuring Baz Luhrmann and his close collaborators discussing the extraordinary journey of the film. In a fabulous special edition, it's a dream come true!

Review: Strictly Ballroom is the first musical venture that the now legendary Baz Luhrmann.  This is the first film in his red curtain trilogy.  Originally released in 1992, the film is now poised for a special edition DVD release and it can't come soon enough!  We just got the other two films in the red carpet trilogy on blu-ray, Moulin Rouge and Romeo & Juliet.

Strictly Ballroom is a romantic comedy infused with some points of emotional drama and tons of amazing dance numbers.  This film holds-up so well and its still so enjoyable.  In an era where people are as enthralled with dancing as ever, Strictly Ballroom is an iconic movie.

Bonus Features Include: Strictkly Ballroom from Stage to Screen documentary, Samba to Slow Fox, Design gallery, Filmmaker commentary, Deleted scenes