The Commish: the Complete First Season DVD Review


Labels:


The Commish: the Complete First Season DVD Review


Synopsis: Emmy Winner Michael Chiklis stars as Tony Scali, a no-nonsense police commissioner revered by his officers and community for this unorthodox style and compassionate nature. As a former Brooklyn cop, Tony uses tough and at times controversial methods to bring perpetrators to justice in his small town, where solutions to difficult situations often require considerable creativity. From parenthood to politics, from sex crimes to murder cases, one man takes it day-to-day with offbeat humor and street- smart skill. Mystery, humor, and vividly drawn characters all contributed to the success of THE COMMISH.

The series that launched the career of Michael Chiklis, who is best known for his hard-hitting character in TV's The Shield, is a different type of cop show where crimes are solved with compassion and intelligence instead of ruthless violence. This Golden Globe? and Emmy? nominated series enjoyed a highly successful run on ABC from 1991-1996.

Review: Michael Chiklis has been type-cast for awhile.  Many know him from the Fantastic Four movies and the hit FX show 'The Shield', but before all that, he was 'The Commish'.   This show used to run on Saturday nights and was a huge hit in it's time.  I have rather vague memories of watching this show as a kid, though I do remember that I never missed an episode.  I was excited to check out this DVD release.  Does the show still stack up?

The Commish is the last time that we see Michael Chiklis sporting hair, he's toughened up his image with the bald look now.  When he was the Commish his character, while tough as nails to some, was still far more compassionate and human than his portrayl on the Shield.  The Commish season one surprisingly does hold up against the test of time.  The crimes are brutal, but what set the Commish apart from modern-era cop shows is that its far softer.  The methods involve more detective work and less brutality.  This show is truly the polar opposite of the Shield.  Its far more interesting, just on the basis of story, as though it tried harder.

This is a great DVD release.  Originally released by Anchor Bay, Mill Creek Entertainment has re-packaged this show in a more affordable manner.  You can purchase this entire first season for around $13-$15.  Its an absolute steal!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

New Scooby-Doo Movie Mystery Sweepstakes!


Labels:



WARNER BROS. CONSUMER PRODUCTS LAUNCHES SCOOBY-DOO MOVIE MYSTERY SWEEPSTAKES

Fans can enter to win a trip for four to the set of the new Scooby-Doo movie!

Burbank, Calif., March 12, 2010 - Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) today announced the Scooby-Doo Movie Mystery Sweepstakes in support of the highly successful Scooby-Doo! Zoinks Points program, offering fans a chance to win a trip to Los Angeles to visit the set of the new live-action Scooby-Doo movie.

Fans of Scooby-Doo can visit http://www.scoobydoosweeps.com/ and enter by March 31, 2010. The grand prize winner and three guests will be flown to Los Angeles and taken on a VIP tour of the set of the new Scooby-Doo movie to experience the excitement of filmmaking first hand, view actual film sets and meet the cast. The top 10 first-prize packages will include a Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins DVD and a Nintendo Wii or Nintendo DS version of the Scooby-Doo First Frights game.



The new Scooby-Doo film is a follow-up to last fall’s hit Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins and features the returning cast of Nick Palatas (Shaggy), Kate Melton (Daphne), Hayley Kiyoko (Velma) and Robbie Amell (Fred).

Scooby-Doo Zoinks Points, a consumer rewards program available at www.zoinkspoints.com, is the first program of its kind. It offers fans the opportunity to download and access free, exclusive online content with the purchase of all Scooby-Doo licensed products. Users have access to a vast and ever-expanding collection of online and downloadable content, including custom Scooby-Doo online games, video clips, wallpapers, screen savers, podcasts and more.

You can win a Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins DVD and a Nintendo Wii version of the Scooby-Doo First Frights game from DVD LEGION!  Just email us at DVDLEGION.COM at GMAIL.COM with your name and favorite Scooby character,  and we'll enter you into our random drawing!  Good Luck

Legacy: The Origins of Civilization DVD Review


Labels:

Legacy: The Origins of Civilization DVD Review



Synopsis: Exploring the foundations of the modern world 

WHAT CAN THE PAST TEACH US ABOUT THE PRESENT? In this profound and provocative documentary, historian Michael Wood travels the globe to trace the origins of six great civilizations. These ancient cultures offer surprising perspectives on today’s most urgent questions: What purpose does society serve? How can it survive--and thrive--within the limits of nature? 

Journey to Iraq, where humans built the first cities and faced the first environmental crisis; to India, where a culture of spirituality flourished; to China, where ritual and respect for ancestors reflected ideas of cosmic harmony; to Egypt, where monuments to the dead promised stability and eternal life; to Central America, where the Aztecs and Maya carved out bloody empires; and to Western Europe, where the individual became the center of society. In every locale, Legacy takes a fresh, strikingly relevant look at the roots of civilization.

Review:  We love documentary programming here at the Legion.  Everyone knows this by now, I review enough of them!  Amongst my favorites are those put out by the History Channel and Athena.  Athena makes the most amazing and involved features.

Athena continues their tradition of excellence with Legacy.  This documentary series takes us deep within six different ancient cultures and shows us not only how they survived, but what made them function.  It helps us to look at the past and see the things about ourselves today that are similar and even what could be different.

I recommend this and all Athena documentaries for anyone that is interested in homeschooling, a teacher for in-class work or anyone that loves to learn.  These are the highest quality documentaries possible. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

New SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER DVD!


Labels:


 WARNER PREMIERE SENDS MYSTERY INC. ON A NEW ASSIGNMENT IN SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER

Principal Photography Begins March 15 in Southern California

Original Cast & Crew Re-Team Following Cartoon Network’s 2009
Record-Setting Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins

New Film Slated for Fall TV/Spring DVD Release


BURBANK, CA – March 12, 2010 – Warner Premiere is in production on
Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster, an all-new, live-action/CG
movie follow-up to 2009’s record-setting Scooby-Doo! The Mystery
Begins, it was announced today by Eva Davis, EVP and General Manager,
Warner Premiere.  The film commences principal photography on March 15
in various locations around Southern California.  The family-targeted
feature will premiere on Cartoon Network in fall 2010 and release on
DVD through Warner Home Video in early 2011.

Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster continues the Mystery Inc.
gang’s adventures from the 2009 hit Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins,
which premiered as the most-watched telecast in Cartoon Network
history, and set targeted demographic records across the board.  This
new film will once again feature the familiar cast of characters in
their high school years as they continue to develop and sharpen their
combined sleuthing skills.

“After more than 40 years, the Scooby-Doo franchise continues to grow
stronger as generations of audiences embrace these timeless
characters, and that adoration has been clearly reflected in box
office, DVD sales and television ratings,” said Davis.. “These new
live-action films, with their contemporary approach, bring excitement
and thrills to an altogether new era of Scooby-Doo fans.”

Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster finds the Mystery Inc. gang
heading toward summer jobs at a country club owned by Daphne’s uncle,
only to stumble onto strange happenings around the local lake –
including mystical moonstones, creepy characters and a Frog Monster on
the loose.  There’s mystery afoot and romance in the air that only the
fearful foursome-plus-one – Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo
– can solve in this Warner Premiere production. Warner Bros. Home
Entertainment will distribute the film on Blu-ray, DVD, OnDemand and
For Download.

Director Brian Levant, producer Brian Gilbert and writers the Altiere
Brothers return from their successful turns at the creative helm of
Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins.  The Atlas Entertainment production
also has the live action cast returning intact with Robbie Amell (True
Jackson, VP) as Fred, Kate Melton as Daphne, Hayley Kiyoko as Velma
and Nick Palatas as Shaggy. Scooby-Doo will appear via
computer-generated animation courtesy of Animation Picture Company.

In conjunction with the start of film production, the Scooby-Doo
Mystery Movie Sweepstakes launches March 12, 2010 with a Grand Prize
package that includes a trip for four to the set of Scooby-Doo! Curse
of the Lake Monster during filming.  Fans can go to
www.ScoobyDooSweeps.com to enter.

An animated creation from the legendary Hanna-Barbera studios,
Scooby-Doo celebrated his 40th anniversary in 2009 and represents one
of the longest running, most beloved franchises in cartoon history.
Starting with Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! in 1969, the awkward,
snack-craving Great Dane and his four unique pals have been solving
mysteries through 10 televisions series (spanning nearly 300 episodes,
with a new series slated for debut in 2011), seven TV
specials/telefilms, 14 made-for-video animated films (with No. 15,
Scooby-Doo: Camp Scare, arriving in September 2010), and two live
action theatrical features (Scooby-Doo and Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters
Unleashed).

Overhaulin DVD Review


Labels:

Overhaulin DVD Review


Synopsis: This set is exclusive to the Discovery Channel Store.
Can a group of custom car builders working with lightning speed on a limited budget transform a guy's clunker into a hot custom car without him knowing it? We've all seen them. They sit in the driveway or front yard for years or they're driven in complete embarrassment. We're referring to the all-American eyesore -the clunker. Using stealth and cooperation from friends and/or family to separate the car from the owner, Overhaulin' takes these clunkers to a nearby garage and gives them a complete, ultra high-speed custom makeover. Watch the transformation from faded out heap to custom car. Our team of builders, lead by hot rod automobile designer Chip Foose, will lead the way. After finding out the owner's dream for his beater, the team kicks it into gear - sanding, stripping, painting, grinding - because they've only got a few days and a limited budget to get the job done. It's a bumper-to-bumper journey to the final transformation into a cool set of wheels. And along the way, our hosts will have to keep the owner guessing as to where his car is while the work is getting done. Will these automobile wizards be able to pull it all off in a few short days and on a tight budget? And how will the owner react to his new ride?

Wiley & the Road Runner: John the Joker, as his friends call him, has had a string of bad luck with his love for Mopars. His first Road Runner he totaled, the second he had to sell once they had children, and "his 3rd baby", a 69 Road Runner convertible, needs a new engine.

Illegal Fowl: The Overhaulin team steals a 1965 Ford Thunderbird from a Deputy Sheriff, with the help of his wife and his eight teenage children. The lawman is put to the test by the team's pranks, including a very tense moment at the junkyard with a car crusher.U.S.

Navy Steal: John is an ex-Navy Seal who regards his 1950 Ford truck as the soul of his late best friend, Mitch. His family, his career, and of course, money,always prevented him from working on the truck. His wife thinks it's time to get the gift he deserves. That 70's: Van Back in 1976, he bought his van brand new and adored it. Today, he focuses on family and friends and has put the van aside. He is always quick to help family and friends, so his daughter thinks it's about time that they did something special for him.

Hot Head: Mark's best childhood memories were riding around in his dad's '72 Cutlass. Now Mark is struggling to take care of his family and cannot afford to fix it up enough to take it out of the garage.

Overlord: The Overhaulin' team has pulled off the ultimate prank: stealing Chip Foose's beloved '56 truck right out from under his nose and overhauled it over the course of four months! A new side of Chip is revealed as the prankster gets pranked!

Junk in the Trunk: Marilyn thinks that her Cadillac, named "Bessie," is part of the family, but is treated like a storage unit for holiday decorations because it's in desperate need of repair. Can the Overhaulin' team bring Bessie the Cadillac back to life?

Roadies Stole My Vette!: The 1957 Corvette has been in Carl's family for 46 years. But Carl and his wife are too busy with their family and business. Meanwhile, the Corvette sits in the garage, waiting for the time and money that will one day restore it to its original "cool."

Juvenille Delinquent: Tanner and his dad, Wade, love cars. Wade wants to fix up his 1967 Chevy Chevelle, but he doesn't have time. To thank him for being such a great dad, Tanner becomes the youngest "accomplice" ever on the show as he prepares to overhaul his father. The Short Yellow Bus: John Force is the most prolific champion in drag racing history. He wants to get his little yellow bus overhauled so he can go to schools to shuttle young students to events and live his dream of transporting his racing crew and family in a bus.

Review: This show was basically like a surprise extreme makeover for antique or hot rod cars.   It was kind of a funny concept, a friend or family member nominates you without your knowlege and they obtain your car through trickery.  I know that I saw one episode where a guy donated it to a car museum for an exhibit and they pretended that it has been stolen, only to give it to him completely overhauled and re-done at the end of the episode.

Overhaulin' ran on the TLC network from 2005-2009.  This new DVD release is a compilation of some of the best episodes from seasons 3 and 4.  Its by no means a complete season, but it is full of tons of car overhaulin' goodness.  If you're into cars at all, then this is your show.  Especially if you have a passion for overhauling vintage vehicles.

You can only buy this one online in the Discovery Store, so be sure to click through our link at the top of the page!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Extreme Bodies DVD Review


Labels: ,

Extreme Bodies DVD Review


Synopsis: EXTREME BODIES reveals the extraordinary stories of the most unique people on the planet. From Americas tallest man to a primordial dwarf whose body remains a mystery to medical science, these four episodes unlock the biological secrets of amazing human oddities – including a 700-pound athlete and conjoined twins who share a brain!

Episodes:

Conjoined Twins: Featuring the Schappell twins, who have lived their lives joined at the head, and the Hogan twins, who share a brain, this show explores the amazing structures of people who are literally one in a billion!

Super Obese: With two-thirds of the U.S. population overweight or obese, are we pushing our bodies to their natural limit? See how the world’s heaviest athlete functions at more than 700 pounds! 

Giants: Standing 7’ 8”, George Bell is America’s tallest man. Find out what caused him to grow to this towering height, as we enter the bodies and lives of giants who often suffer from dangerous medical conditions. 

Dwarfs: Shaped by genetic anomalies buried deep in their DNA, dwarf bodies are the products of incredible anatomical engineering. With cutting-edge computer graphics, Extreme Bodies uncovers the science hidden within the world’s smallest people.

Review: Here at the DVD Legion we love the Discovery Channel and we love documentaries.  These specials are a perfect marriage of the two.  Extreme Bodies is a show that we've caught here and there in broadcast, but it was nice to have them collected onto this DVD set to watch all in a row. 

Discovery does an amazing job of producing high-quality documentary pieces.  This is nothing like reality television, where you get set-up scripts and scenarios.  This is literally reality for these people.  You get a rare glimpse inside the real world of everyone from conjoined twins to dwarfs. 

This is educational television at its finest.  Its providing you with a great insight and a ton of scientific information, but in a way that is interesting and captivating.  We cannot recommend this DVD set enough.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Old Dogs Blu-Ray / DVD and Digital Copy Combo Pack Review


Labels: , , ,

Old Dogs Blu-Ray / DVD and Digital Copy Combo Pack Review


Synopsis: John Travolta and Robin Williams star in Old Dogs, the hilarious family comedy that will have you howling. Two best friends have their lives turned upside down when they're unexpectedly charged with the care of seven-year-old twins while on the verge of the biggest business deal of their lives. The clueless bachelors stumble in their efforts to take care of the children, leading to one debacle after another, with a gorilla and some pecking penguins -- and perhaps to a newfound understanding of what's really important in life. Featuring a riotously funny supporting cast including Seth Green, Kelly Preston, Matt Dillon and Lori Laughlin, Old Dogs is a laugh-a-minute comedy filled with heart.

Review: I will be the first to admit that going into this film I thought it was going to be campy.  I felt like the pairing of the superstars in a Disney live action flick was going to be lame.  I am happy to say that I was so very wrong.  Old Dogs ended up being a surprise joy.  

The film is basically Robin Williams discovering that a woman he was with briefly seven years ago had his children without his knowlege.  She has to go to prison for a protest she was doing for a few weeks, so he takes the kids.  This ruins his business dealings, of course, because he's not used to being a father.  The movie has a ton of laugh out loud physical comedy moments peppered in-between some very sincere and credible dialogue.

Bonus features include Exclusive To Disney Combo Pack: Young Dogs Learn Old Tricks, Exclusive To Disney Combo Pack: Music Video You've Been A Friend To Me Performed By Bryan Adams, Bloopers, Deleted Scenes, Music Video Every Little Step Performed By John Travolta And Ella Bleu Travolta, Audio Commentary By Director Walt Becker, Producer Andrew Panay And Writers David Diamond And David Weissman, DVD Feature Film Plus Bonus, Digital Copy Of Feature Film. 

The film looks great in high-definition.  The blu-ray is the only way to go!  The combo pack is great, because we just give the kids the DVD or load it on their iPods with the digital copy!  That way mom and dad can keep the blu-ray in nice shape for the family to enjoy.
We highly recommend this one.  Its a real treat and well worth the watch.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Greek: Chapter Four DVD Review


Labels: ,


 Greek: Chapter Four DVD Review


Synopsis: The rivalries, responsibilities and relationships reach new heights in Chapter Four of the ABC Family original series Greek. Guest star Jesse McCartney joins the cast for a semester of surprises at Cyprus-Rhodes University. When Rusty convinces the school’s most sought-after rushee (McCartney) to pledge his house, sparks begin to fly at Kappa Tau, and old friends collide when new drama threatens the friendships of Casey, Ashleigh, Frannie’s and the rest of your friends on Greek row. Experience all 12 episodes of Greek: Chapter Four, complete with chart-topping music and exciting bonus features in a three-disc box set. A “sparkling college comedy,” raves US Magazine.

Review: Greek is one of those shows that is so crazy you have to catch every episode to have any idea whats going on!  There is always someone trying to steal someone's girlfriend or boyfriend or creating some level of drama that has to be seen first hand.  If you miss any episodes, a nice way to catch up is the DVD release!  ABC Family is releasing chapter four now onto DVD, so here is your chance!

If you already saw this season, then you saw all 12 episodes of character-driven drama.  Jesse McCartney comes into the show as 'Andy', a high-school teammate and friend of Calvin's.  He gets right into the rushes and frat drama that the show is famous for. 

The extras on this DVD set make it all worth while.  We get two episode commentary tracks, a documentary on what the cast would do if the world ended in 24 hours (weird, but funny), “How Do You Sleep?” – music video by Jesse McCartney and some bloopers.  Its a solid DVD release and a very good addition to any collection.  If you haven't watched Greek, you should probably buy it from chapter one on up to get the full scope of what is going on, but four is an immediate buy for anyone already familiar with the show!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Hannah Montanta: Miley Says Goodbye DVD Review


Labels: , , ,


 Hannah Montanta: Miley Says Goodbye DVD Review


Synopsis: Be the first to see the entire groundbreaking premiere of the pivotal Hanna Montana Season Three Finale! In Miley Says Goodbye? watch as Miley struggles with her biggest decision yet! Will she leave her rock-star life in Malibu to return home to her Tennessee roots to be with her favorite horse, Blue Jeans? In these 6 episodes from the Emmy-nominated series, including the finale that you can check out on DVD first, Miley must take control of her own life and listen to her heart. In this fully loaded DVD, David Archuleta (from American Idol) guest stars, and Cody Linley returns as Jake in an hour-long episode that has Miley thinking He Could Be The One. And you won't believe the exclusive alternate ending! Add in incredible bonus features like Sister Secrets! and Hannah's Highlights, and you've got the ultimate extra special Hannah Montana event DVD that you won't want to miss!

Review: This new DVD release in the Hannah Montana franchise takes place where the Hannah Montana movie really left off.  Miley finds herself literally dreaming of Tennessee and her horse 'Blue Jeans'.  She decides to bring her horse to California with her and after some soul searching, she figures out that she is really homesick and wants to move back to Tennessee full-time.  This would involve leaving her two best buds, Oliver and Lilly!  Whats a girl to do?

This DVD release features five episodes from season three and the cliffhanger finale.  What does Miley decide?  You'll have to pick up the DVD to be sure!  You can see it there first and later on the Disney Channel.

Bonus Features for this DVD release include: He Could Be The One Alternate Ending, Hannah's Highlights: You Never Give Me My Money Episode, Sister Secrets Miley's Real-Life Sister Reveals Another Side Of Miley!

This is a solid release for any Hannah fan.  Its got a lot of heart and great bonds of friendship.  The question must be answered once and for all..what will Miley choose?!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Gentlemen Broncos Blu-Ray Review


Labels: , , ,


 Gentlemen Broncos Blu-Ray Review


Synopsis: Mount your battle stag, grab your popcorn balls and get ready to laugh your gonads off as Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment presents Gentlemen Broncos on Blu-ray Disc and DVD March 2. The director of Napoleon Dynamite (Jared Hess) and co-star of HBO’s “Flight of the Conchords” (Jemaine Clement) team up to bring you the story of Benjamin Purvis (Michael Angarano), a lovable loner whose life is turned upside down when a pretentious fantasy author steals his story at a writers camp.Jennifer Coolidge (American Pie), Sam Rockwell (The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy) and Mike White (School of Rock) join a hysterical cast of oddball characters in this “fun, quirky comedy.” (People)

Review: When I heard that Jared Hess, the director of Napoleon Dynamite and Jemaine from Flight of the Conchords had gotten together on a film, I knew not only that I had to see it, but that it was going to be ackward and hilarious.

Sam Rockwell's performance is over the top as sci-fi character 'Bronco'.  That won't be surprising to anyone that saw the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.   The movie is scene after scene of odd and quirky behavior from odd characters.  Its really one of the most ackward things I've ever seen.  I can see what they were going for with the comedic angle, but all too often is just doesn't connect.  The film ends up being a lot of characters without soul that you can't really attach yourself to.

What does stand out as positive is Jemain Clement's performance as Chevalier, a famous sci-fi author that main character Benjamin Purvis idolizes.  Chevalier is the epitome of a douchey science fiction guy.  Jemain plays him so very well..down to the creepy voice.  He turns out to be the heel of the film, of course.

There isn't a lot for extras to speak of.  The blu-ray transfer quality does look great.  This movie tries very hard..almost too hard to be quirky and clever.  It may appeal to you, but fair warning it is very dry and very difficult to sit through at times.  It lacks the spirit that Napoleon Dynamite harnessed. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

War of the Worlds comes to Blu-Ray


Labels: ,


TOM CRUISE STARS IN A THRILLING RENDITION OF THE CLASSIC H.G. WELLS TALE DIRECTED BY STEVEN SPIELBERG, ARRIVING ON BLU-RAY FOR THE FIRST TIME
 
WAR OF THE WORLDS

Visually-Stunning and Action-Packed Sci-Fi Thriller Debuts on Blu-ray June 1, 2010 Featuring Over Two Hours of Special Features
 
HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. – When the Earth is suddenly invaded by menacing aliens in giant fighting machines, one family struggles for survival in the
eye-popping adventure WAR OF THE WORLDS, directed by Steven Spielberg and landing on Blu-ray for the first time ever June 1, 2010 from Paramount Home Entertainment. A DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures co-production,
WAR OF THE WORLDS stars Tom Cruise as Ray Ferrier, a father who is desperately trying to protect his teenage son (Justin Chatwin) and 10-year-old daughter
(Dakota Fanning) from the relentless alien onslaught that is destroying everything in its path.  Fueled by the desire to reunite the children with their mother, Ray battles to shepherd his family from New Jersey to Boston, all the while fending off the mysterious and deadly aliens.  

Filled with stunning visual effects and non-stop action, the
WAR OF THE WORLDS Blu-ray features the finest picture and sound quality to further enhance this sci-fi classic.  The Blu-ray also features over two hours of bonus material including in-depth production diaries following the crew from the east coast to the west coast, featurettes on H. G. Wells’ legacy, scoring the film, the characters and previsualization, multiple photo galleries and more.


WAR OF THE WORLDS Blu-ray

The WAR OF THE WORLDS Blu-ray is presented in 1080p High Definition with English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital along with English, English SDH, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles. Special features are presented in standard definition except where noted HD:
·      Revisiting the Invasion
·      The H.G. Wells Legacy
·      Steven Spielberg and the Original War of the Worlds
·      Characters: The Family Unit
·      Previsualization
·      Production Diaries
o   East Coast—Beginning
o   East Coast—Exile
o   West Coast—Destruction
o   West Coast—War
·      Designing the Enemy: Tripods and Aliens
·      Scoring War Of The Worlds
·      We Are Not Alone
·      Galleries
o   Sketches by Costume Designer Joanna Johnston
o   Production Stills
o   Behind the Scenes
o   Production Sketches
·      Theatrical Teaser Trailer (HD)

'The Cove' documentary wins big at the Oscars!


Labels: , , ,


The Cove struck gold  on Sunday night, taking home the Academy Award for Best Documentary!   Congratulations!  

Also, additional information on The Cove is below and available at http://thecovemovie.com/ and http://www.savejapandolphins.org/ .  


“…a certain Oscar nominee” – Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
THE COVE

Street Date: 12/8/09

Order Date: 11/11/09
DVD SRP: $27.98

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
An astounding piece of investigative journalism with the heart of an action thriller, The Cove debuts on DVD from Lionsgate.   The electrifying film follows animal activist and former dolphin trainer Ric O’Barry and his high-tech dive team on a mission to discover the truth about the international dolphin capture trade as practiced in Taiji, Japan.  One of the best reviewed films of the year, The Cove was hailed as “gorgeous, pulse-pounding and shocking” (Elle Magazine), “very powerful” (The New York Times), “a gripping thriller” (Philadelphia Inquirer) and “the year’s most exciting film” (The Huffington Post). 
In addition, The Cove has astonished audiences across the country winning the Audience Awards at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival, 2009 Silver Docs Film Festival, 2009 HotDocs Film Festival, 2009 Sydney Film Festival and 2009 Maui Film Festival, as well as Golden Space Needle at the 2009 Seattle International Film Festival, Best Feature Film and Best Storytelling at the 2009 Nantucket Film Festival, Best in Festival and Best Theatrical from the 2009 Blue Ocean Film Festival. The DVD features extensive bonus materials including audio commentary with the director and the producer, a documentary on the hazards of mercury, behind-the-scenes footage from the multiple hidden cameras plus deleted and extended scenes. A must see film; The Cove will be available on DVD this December for the suggested retail price of $27.98. 
The Cove tells one of the most inspiring true stories of our time. When an elite team of activists, filmmakers and free divers embark on a covert mission to penetrate a remote and hidden cove in Japan, they shine a light on a dark and deadly secret. This unforgettable story has inspired audiences around the world to action and raised hopes that thousands of the most magnificent wild animals on Earth can be saved.  
*DVD SPECIAL FEATURES
  • Audio Commentary with director Louie Psihoyos and producer Fisher Stevens
  • “The Cove: Mercury Rising” – a mini documentary on the hazards of mercury in fish
  • Behind-the-Scenes footage of the covert gear used to capture the activities in The Cove featuring the:
          • Nest Cam
          • Thermal Cam
          • Rock Cams
          • Helicopter Cam
          • Blood Cam
  • Deleted and Extended Scenes
*Subject to change

Up In the Air coming to DVD and Blu-Ray on March 9th!


Labels: , ,


               
George Clooney Goes "Up in the Air" in a Spacesuit!

In this deleted scene from UP IN THE AIR,  Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) goes about his disconnected routine in a spacesuit. Check out the clip!

“One of the year’s best movies”
--Richard Corliss, Time

Nominated for Six Academy Awards® Including Best Picture and Best Actor
ACADEMY AWARD WINNER* GEORGE CLOONEY STARS IN
THE MOST CELEBRATED ROMANTIC COMEDY OF THE YEAR
UP IN THE AIR

Cited As One of the Top Ten Movies of the Year on Over 200 Critics’ Lists,
Captivating and Entertaining Film Takes Off on DVD and Blu-ray March 9, 2010
        
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – Academy Award® winner George Clooney “gives the performance of his career” (Lou Lumenick, New York Post) in the smart, funny and thought-provoking film UP IN THE AIR coming in for a landing on DVD and Blu-ray March 9, 2010 from Paramount Home Entertainment.  Called “the movie of the year, the movie of the moment” (Tom Carson, GQ) and named by over 200 critics as one of the top 10 films of 2009, UP IN THE AIR tells the story of a man discovering that life is not simply about the journey alone, but about the personal connections made along the way. 

Co-written and directed by Oscar® nominee Jason Reitman (Juno), UP IN THE AIR received six Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, Best Actor (Clooney), Best Supporting Actress (Vera Farmiga and Anna Kendrick), Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.  The film has already won a Golden Globe® Award for Best Screenplay and dozens of critics’ association awards including being named Best Film by the National Board of Review, the Washington D.C. Area Film Critics Association, the Southeastern Film Critics Association, the Dallas-Fort Worth Film Critics Association, the Florida Film Critics Circle and the Kansas City Film Critics Circle.   

The UP IN THE AIR DVD and Blu-ray presentations include commentary by writer/director Jason Reitman, director of photography Eric Steelberg and first assistant director Jason Blumenfeld, deleted scenes with optional commentary and the featurette “Shadowplay: Before The Story”.  The Blu-ray also includes additional deleted scenes, storyboards, an American Airlines prank and the “Help Yourself” music video by Sad Brad.

UP IN THE AIR DVD & Blu-ray

The UP IN THE AIR DVD is presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 TVs with Dolby Digital English 5.1 Surround, French 5.1 Surround and Spanish 5.1 Surround and English, French and Spanish subtitles.  The Blu-ray disc is presented in 1080p high definition with English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and Brazilian Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital and English, English SDH, French, Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese subtitles.  The DVD includes the following special features:

Commentary by writer/director Jason Reitman, director of photography Eric Steelberg and first assistant director
Jason Blumenfeld
Shadowplay: Before The Story
Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Jason Reitman

To Know Me Is To Fly With Me
Real People Firing and Irate Employee
Thumper and Extended Boat Scene
Omaha Montage
Spacesuit

Trailers


The Blu-ray includes all of the above in high definition, plus:

Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Jason Reitman (HD)

Do You Live At The Hilton?
Nosey Neighbor
Natalie In Restroom
Natalie Vid-Chats
Angry Ryan Checks In
Goalquest Invite
Maynard Finch Commercial/Kara Calls Ryan
Barely Squeaking By/Natalie Calls

“Help Yourself” music video by Sad Brad (HD)
Storyboards (HD)
American Airlines Prank (HD)

The critically acclaimed soundtrack to UP IN THE AIR is available now from Rhino and includes the riveting “Help Yourself” from Sad Brad Smith as well as tracks from Elliot Smith, Dan Auerbach, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

Bitch Slap Unrated DVD Review


Labels: ,


 Bitch Slap Unrated DVD Review


Synopsis: A modern throwback to the "B" movie exploitation films of the 50's-70's, mixing beautiful women, fast cars, big guns, nasty tongues, outrageous action, and jaw-dropping eye candy. The movie follows three bad girls, a down-and-out stripper, a drug running killer, and a corporate power broker as they arrive at a remote desert hideaway to extort massive booty from an underworld kingpin.

Review: This film is billed as a throwback to the exploitation B-fims of the 1950s, 60s and 70s.   It most definately has those elements, but with a modern sense of self.   The amount of scantily clad girls, overt sensuality and violence makes for a winning combination in Bitch Slap Unrated!

Bitch Slap Unrated takes us on a wild ride with Hell, Camero and Trixie.  These three women are dressed to impress in their skimpy post-apocalyptic like gear, designed to show off all of their feminine assets.   Whether digging in the hot sun or going for the kill, the girls all keep to a great female sexual archetype. 

Hell and Trixie eventually figure out that they have romantic feelings for each other and from that point things go to hell!  Of course we had to have lesbian love..its an exploitation flick!  This is the kind of film that would make Tarantino sit up and take notice!  Its lacking a little on the social astatements that the older flicks often showcased, but it certainly has the exploitation down!  Women, violence and mayhem!  Bitch Slap has it all.  Above all the film is hilarious and definately worth owning.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Links: www.bitchslapmovie.com

The Scarecrow and Mrs. King: The Complete First Season DVD Review


Labels: , ,

 The Scarecrow and Mrs. King: The Complete First Season DVD Review


DVD Synopsis: Goodbye, PTA...hello, foreign intrigue! Single mom Amanda King leads a quiet suburban life in Washington DC until the day a dashing stranger shoves a package in her hands with instructions to give it to the man in the red hat. In no time, Amanda is dodging bullets, foiling assassination plots – and finding herself drawn to the dashing stranger, agent Lee Stetson, aka Scarecrow. Of course, Scarecrow has no interest in a ditsy amateur spy, no matter how pretty. But she certainly is handy in a crisis! Share the Season One fun with stars Kate Jackson and Bruce Boxleitner in this fast-paced 5-Disc, 21-Episode Set of the lighthearted series that proves laughs and romance are powerful weapons in the battle to protect national security.

Review: This is one of those shows where I knew the name, but I didn't remember the premise.  I grew up in the 1980s, but most of my time was spent trolling shows like Alf, the A-Team and Saved by the Bell.  In fact I watched Saved by the Bell when I woke up this morning, so I guess some things never change, huh?  I digress...the Scarecrow and Mrs. King could be qualified as a cult classic.  It has taken forever to hit DVD and the fans have been clammoring online for some time anxiously awaiting its release.  Finally, Warner Bros. has decided to have mercy on the legions of fans and throw them the complete first season on DVD!

The chemistry between Kate Jackson and Bruce Boxleitner (Mrs. King and the Scarecrow) is top notch.  The show is full of intrigue, fantasy and adventure.  The scope it put itself into was absolutely huge.  That was one of the great things about television shows in the 80s, they had no problem mixing romance, adventure and mystery.  Its a shame that I missed out on this show back when it aired, but I'm happy to be able to keep up with it now on DVD.

This DVD release is the complete first season of the show, which consists of 21 episodes.  The show ran for four more seasons after that, so we have a few more DVD releases to look forward to!   The clothing and music don't hold up well (it was 1983 after all!), but the acting and plots are still fun!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Links: www.scarecrowandmrskingdvd.com

Video: You can watch a clip from the show HERE

Planet 51 Blu-Ray Review


Labels:


Planet  51 Blu-Ray Review



Synopsis: When Chuck the astronaut (Dwayne Johnson) lands on a distant planet filled with little green people, he is surprised to discover that we are not alone in the galaxy. But he gets the shock of his life when the residents of Planet 51 mistakenly believe that his presence is the start of an alien invasion of the human kind! Luckily, Lem (Justin Long) quickly realizes that Chuck is friendly and makes it his personal mission to help him return safely to his ship.

Review: Planet 51 is a fantastic jab at 1950s Americana.  The reviews when the film was in the theater were less than favorable.  I can't for the life of my figure out why!  The film stars The Rock (I'm sorry, he'll always be the Rock) in the lead voice role as an astronaut that gets marooned on an "alien" planet.  Except, he turns out to be the alien there!   

Its rare to find a film that has good, clean jokes that are actually funny, but Planet 51 pulls it off.  Its got a fun storyline, great animation and the voice acting is really top notch.  The cast also includes Justin Long, who is a really underrated actor.  This is one of those films that should've been a huge hit.  It will proabably gain a lot more steam on blu-ray.

This is one of those cartoons that adults and parents will get a kick out of too, so its well worth a good watch.  The blu-ray transfer looks fantastic!  Its crisp and the colors are absolutely vibrant.  We highly recommend this one to kids and adults of all ages!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

My Neighbor Totoro 2-Disc Special Edition DVD Review


Labels: ,

My Neighbor Totoro 2-Disc Special Edition DVD Review



Synopsis: Visionary and Academy Award–winning director Hayao Miyazaki (2002, Best Animated Feature, Spirited Away) has created a heartwarming, music-filled, and wonderful world in My Neighbor Totoro, a delightfully animated family adventure. And now, exclusively in this special edition DVD, never-before-seen bonus features reveal even more of Totoro’s fantastic world! Follow the adventures of Satsuki and her four-year-old sister Mei when they move into a new home in the countryside. To their delight, they discover that their new neighbor is a mysterious forest spirit called Totoro—who can be seen only through the eyes of a child. Totoro introduces them to extraordinary characters—including a cat that doubles as a bus!—and takes them on an incredible journey. Bring home My Neighbor Totoro from Studio Ghibli and Disney for your family’s DVD library and experience the timeless classic film Roger Ebert calls “one of the very few that come along that are magical for all ages.”

Review: I had no idea what was going on with this film.  My sister brought it over ages ago and introduced my daughter to it.  Since then, she has raved about Totoro.   She even has a Totoro themed hat that she wears in the winter!  I'd heard that he was kind of like a Japanese Winnie the Pooh, but I felt like this new release was a great time to see what all the fuss is about!

The film is very fanciful and interesting.  Not surprising for a Miyazaki anime.  It centers around these two sisters, who are very close.  Their mother is in the hospital, so their dad takes them to this new home.  There, they meet the spirit of the forest, Totoro.  He takes them on magical journies and cares for them while their mother is away.  Its a very touching and wonderful story.  

This new 2-disc special edition DVD includes a ton of bonus features that are sure to make any fan happy.  Its a great chance to purcase a nice version of this film for your family or for your own anime collection!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

The Boondock Saints II: All Saint's Day Blu-Ray Review


Labels: ,


 The Boondock Saints II: All Saint's Day Blu-Ray Review


Synopsis: From Troy Duffy, writer and director of The Boondock Saints, comes the much anticipated sequel to the tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV's Dexter) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!

Review: The Boondock Saints went way under the radar when it was released.  I remember watching it with a good friend of mine and my wife and we all enjoyed it, but it was an indie flick at the time.  Then, something very strange happened...it exploded seemingly overnight.  It kinda replaced 'Fight Club' as the movie that every idiot loved.  There were shirts at Hot Topic.  'Nuff said.  I read a lot about creator Troy Duffy.  Fans have been clammoring that he waited too long to make a sequel, blah blah...well it wasn't really up to Duffy.  See, he burned SO many bridges in Hollywood that he was blacklisted for quite some time.

Enough about the surrounding drama...how is the movie?!  Often times sequels will disappoint.  They just don't live up to the original.  In the case of Boondock Saints II: All Saint's Day this just isn't the case.  If anything, this film might be better.  Almost like Batman Begins vs. The Dark Knight.  Begins really sets up the next film with the base of character understanding.  This film is actually more entertaining to me, because the brothers are hooked up with their father, the legendary Il Duce!  The boys come back to America to avenge the death of a priest/friend and gunplay, religious zealotry and insanity ensue! 

When the first film came out high definition wasn't an option.  Now, its the only option.  If you enjoyed the first film, and you're not completely uptight, you'll enjoy the second!  Go pick up the blu-ray today!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Castle In the Sky 2-Disc Special Edition DVD Review


Labels: ,



Castle In the Sky 2-Disc Special Edition DVD Review


Synopsis: Introduce your entire family to Castle In The Sky, featuring a timeless story of courage and friendship with stunning animation from acclaimed Academy Award–winning director Hayao Miyazaki (2002, Best Animated Feature, Spirited Away). Plus, this special edition DVD includes never-before-seen bonus features that transport you deeper into the film’s amazing world! This high-flying adventure begins when Pazu, an engineer’s apprentice, finds a young girl, Sheeta, floating down from the sky, wearing a glowing pendant. Together, they discover both are searching for a legendary floating castle, Laputa, and vow to unravel the mystery of the luminous crystal around Sheeta’s neck. Their quest won’t be easy, however. There are greedy air pirates, secret government agents, and astounding obstacles to keep them from the truth—and from each other. Add Castle In The Sky to your DVD library, and this magical and uplifting classic from Studio Ghibli and Disney will thrill and amaze your family for years to come.

Review: This ground breaking anime was the third outing for now legendary director Hayao Miyazaki.  Produced back in 1986, this film was based on Gulliver's Travels.  Disney has taken the film and given it a fresh English dub, featuring the voice talents of Anna Paquin (True Blood, X-Men) and James Van Der Beek (Dawson's Creek). 

Castle in the Sky is one of those kids movies that appeal to all ages.  Adults can get just as much out of it and not get that Barney syndrome that makes you wonder why you're wasting your time watching a kids feature.  This movie is smart and endearing.

The new special edition DVD set includes a ton of extras that transport you into the world of the film.  This is a great opportunity to add a wonderful children's film to your kids' library or to your own anime collection!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

BBC Alice in Wonderland DVD Review


Labels:


BBC Alice in Wonderland DVD Review


Synopsis: This surreal, gothic version of the Lewis Carroll fantasy was directed by Jonathan Miller. Miller’s masterpiece was filmed for the BBC in 1966 and stars acting legends Peter Sellers, John Gielgud, Michael Redgrave, Peter Cook and Leo McKern, with dreamlike music written and performed by Ravi Shankar. In this Alice, an enigmatic young girl wanders through a Victorian landscape populated by the most bizarre and astonishing characters. Alice gently questions each one in turn, subtly mocking their middle-class English values. Packed with extras from the BBC vault, this Alice in Wonderland is a feast for the imagination!

Review: We just went to see the new Disney Alice in Wonderland in Imax 3D this weekend.  Amazing film.  It was dark and twisty and everything you want from Tim Burton directing an Alice in Wonderland sequel.  This BBC version of the film couldn't possibly stack up, right?  I mean its from 1966, after all.  Oh, but alas, Burton couldn't top the dark take on Alice that director Jonathan Miller dished out as a 1966 Xmas special...

This film is amazing.  Its low budget, to be sure, and it completely lacks any animation.  The effects aren't as important as the trippy and dark atmosphere and the almost exact following of the book's text as a script!  We get some amazing actors in Peter Cook as the Mad Hatter and the great Peter Sellers as the King of Hearts! 

This film was so utterly enjoyable.  Its a gem.  We had no idea that it even existed until this DVD release.  The BBC has produced some truly remarkable film over the years and this one ranks right up there!  If you're an Alice fan, pick this one up.  The price point is rather low and its well worth the addition to your collection!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Links: www.bbcamericashop.com

Strawberry Shortcake: The Berryfest Princess DVD Review


Labels:



Strawberry Shortcake: The Berryfest Princess DVD Review



Synopsis: Join the fun in this all-new animated adventure as Berry Bitty City prepares for the annual Spring festival, and Strawberry Shortcake is appointed Berryfest Princess of the joyous celebration. Along with her berry best friends, they must work together to ensure the festival and parade are the sweetest events the town has ever seen.  The Strawberry Shortcake: The Berryfest Princess Movie DVD will feature printable coloring pages and “A Berry Royal” sing-a-long song featurette!

Review: Its so wonderful to see the Strawberry Shortcake franchise alive and well!  It seems that no one can deny that the 1980s were a mecca of amazing concepts and ideas, since all of our cartoons have been updated and re-done over the past ten years!  Strawberry Shortcake is gaining new life amongst little ones in 2010 with her latest release...the Berryfest Princess movie!

The film centers around Strawberry Shortcake becoming the Berryfest Princess.  Strawberry learns to enlist the help of her friends when things get difficult. The movie centers around friendship and the lessons that working together is the only way to get things done!

The DVD bonus features include  a “True Friends Last Forever” sing-along as well as printable coloring pages.  The lessons in this film are very solid and there is a berry large amount of fun to be had by little ones!  Lots of singing..lots of color and maybe some fun for mom to see her kids enjoying something she may have been into as a girl.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Abby in Wonderland DVD Review


Labels: , , ,



Abby in Wonderland DVD Review


Synopsis: Get ready to be enchanted by everyone’s favorite fairy-in-training, Abby Cadabby, as she and Elmo embark on a magical storybook adventure in the re-release of Abby in Wonderland, from Warner Home Video (WHV) and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street.  Winner of the 2009 CINE Golden Eagle Awardin the Children's Education and Entertainment category and the iParenting Best Products Award, this exciting adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland is on sale March 2, 2010, and will take you on an out-of-this-world adventure that’s fun for the whole family.

Directed by Emmy Award-winning puppeteer and producer, Kevin Clash, Abby-thusiasts will slide down the rabbit hole and follow her into a whimsical world in the Sesameversion of the children’s classic.  When Abby falls asleep and is dreaming, Elmo transforms into a frantic, fuzzy red rabbit and she follows him into an enchanted “Wonderland.”  Abby is persistent as she pursues the elusive rabbit that, inadvertently, has pocketed her magical wand.  On her quest, she encounters an incredible cast of fantastical characters such as a bilingual flower, “Rose”-ita (Rosita), The “Counter”-pillar (The Count), The Cheshire Cookie Cat (Cookie Monster), Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum (Bert and Ernie), The Mad Hatter (Grover), The Mouse (Zoe) and the cranky Grouch of Hearts (Oscar).  Without the assistance of her usual fairy magic, Abby must rely on her knowledge of rhyming to defeat the Grouch of Hearts, reclaim her wand and find her way back to Sesame Street.  This release also includes a bonus 5-song music CD featuring a collection of all-time favorite Sesame Street hits!

“Warner Home Video is thrilled to partner with Sesame Workshop to re-release this truly enjoyable DVD,” said Amit Desai, WHV Vice President, of Family, Animation & Partner Brands Marketing.  “Kids can now enjoy old-school classics like Alice in Wonderland but with new and modern characters such as Abby and Elmo from Sesame Street.”

Sesame Workshop has always provided children with an educational foundation and love of learning through content that is research-based and age appropriate. Throughout this adventure, preschoolers are presented with important skills such as task persistence, reading and storytelling, relational concepts, counting and letter sounds.

“We wanted to create a DVD that children of all ages would love and stays true to the timeless story of Alice in Wonderland,” adds Kevin Clash, Senior Creative Advisor, Sesame Workshop. “We were able to take the Sesame Street Muppets© and mold them into the legendary Lewis Caroll characters for our preschool audience and their families to enjoy.”

Celebrating its impressive 40th anniversary this season, Sesame Street is the longest-running program in children’s television. The series has received more Emmy awards than any other show in television history (122), as well as a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award honoring the 40th year.

Review: My daughter is such a huge fan of Abby Cadaby.  She used to love Elmo....yes he was all fine and dandy until Abby came into her life.  That was it!  She just adores her.  This new DVD release features Abby and some of the other Sesame Street crew recreating the classic Lewis Carroll tale 'Alice in Wonderland'.

We put this DVD in and she went crazy!  To watch your little girl sit there for 40 minutes and just smile and laugh and dance is such a gift.  Abby is adorable, as always, and the rest of the Sesame Street crew (Bert and Ernie as Tweedle Dee and Dum, etc.) are dynamic and enjoyable.  The whole story is full of color and delight.

The new Disney Alice in Wonderland film it out.  Its not for kids.  You may or may not realize that, but unless your child is 13 or older they should not see it.  Its far too dark and violent.  This version of the great tale can be enjoyed by all!  We highly recommend this for parents and or daycare providers.  This is good, clean and safe fun for all!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)
 

DVDLEGION.COM Copyright © 2009-2013 The Legion Fan Network. DVD Legion is your home for DVD Reviews, Blu-Ray Reviews, DVD News and Blu-Ray News.
Visit the other sites in our network Legions of Gotham, Toy Legion, Ghostbusters Collector and Toy Story/Pixar Collector