Film Review: “The Current War” – Director’s Cut

THE CURRENT WAR – Director’s Cut
Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Shannon
Directed by: Alfonso Gomez-Rejon
Rated: PG-13
Running Time: 1 hr 42 mins
101 Studios 

Electricity. We take it for granted much like air and water. It is almost hard to imagine how human civilization ever functioned, much less survived without it. In the totality of human history, it was just a blink of an eye ago, circa the beginning of the 1880s, when electricity was delivered unto the masses by two extraordinary men – Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse. The struggle between these two icons of invention over AC and DC current is dramatized in “The Current War,” a film that made its debut two years ago at the Toronto International Film Festival and languished in limbo until now. With engaging performances by Benedict Cumberbatch and Michael Shannon, and an interesting script, “The Current War” is a quick-paced historical work that is indubitably watchable. 

It all begins in 1882 when Edison (Cumberbatch) demonstrates the power of DC current by lighting up a small section of Manhattan, New York. After being snubbed by Edison, rich financier and inventor Westinghouse (Shannon) pursues the possibilities of AC current with equal passion. A war between the two gradually heats up with casualties along the way. 

Edison’s sometimes blind, cutthroat ambition, causes him to often make empty promises to his young children and losing out on time with his wife who dies tragically. He refuses to see any possibilities beyond DC current, which takes more power stations and heavier wire. Even a young and eccentric Nikola Tesla (Nicholas Hoult, “Dark Phoenix”) cannot convince him otherwise. 

Westinghouse tries to stick to his moral principles by avoiding the use of dirty propaganda that Edison often employs. However, he lets a little envy creep in over Edison’s abundant fame and so he pushes harder to win with the more dangerous AC current, which can run longer distances via thinner wire. A close associate pays a high price for it and Westinghouse, who is dubiously portrayed as being haunted by a harrowing Civil War experience, resorts to similar tactics as those of Edison while forming a partnership with the scorned Tesla, who’s relegated to more of a sideshow within the story. 

Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon (“Me and Earl and the Dying Girl”) “The Current War” was originally under the Weinstein Company’s umbrella, but it’s release was sidetracked after Harvey Weinstein’s fall from power. Thankfully, Gomez-Rejon, with the help of executive producer Martin Scorsese, was able to get the film back and did some reshoots. His final product is a rapid-paced, enjoyable work with good cinematography and solid costume designs.

 “The Current War” provides a keen look into this likely forgotten period of American history that changed the world forever. Cumberbatch and Shannon dominate the screen with as-expected impressive performances the bring to life these two titans of electrical ingenuity.

“CGI just doesn’t cut it for me, man!” Blindspot’s Heidi Schnappauf Speaks About Stunt Work

Heidi Schnappauf at Sword Class NYC

When Blindspot enters its fourth season this Friday on NBC, it will of course be bringing the action that has garnered the series multiple Emmy nominations for Outstanding Stunt Coordination. While last year burst onto the scene with, amongst other things, Jane Doe and Co in a tank, this year’s premiere has taken Jane (Jaimie Alexander) to Tokyo where she engages in some impressive swordplay with a new adversary. Behind Jane’s hardest hits is Alexander’s stunt double, Heidi Schnappauf, who has been with the show from the first season. Speaking with me at New York Comic Con*, Jaimie Alexander said of Heidi: “Just the hits she takes, the body slams…I don’t know how she’s OK. Half the time I’m terrified for her because she does a lot of the heavy lifting in the fights…And she’s just incredible, she’s an incredible lady.”

Besides Blindspot Schnappauf has an impressive credits list that includes Marvel’s Jessica Jones, Broad City and Orange is the New Black. I was lucky enough to speak with Heidi about her action-packed job this past weekend when Warner Brothers sent us along with her and Jaimie to, fittingly, a beginner Kendo sword lesson!

Lauren Damon: How long have you been with the show?

Heidi Schnappauf: I’ve been with the show all the four seasons, however, I came in toward the end of the first season. I think episode twenty. So right at the end kind of filling in for her old double [Ky Furneaux].

LD: What are your favorite types of stunts?

HS: I love to fight. My main background was fighting. This, sword fighting, was not something I grew up with, but definitely something I picked up on the way and trained a little bit. But fighting, which includes all the falling that we do—getting thrown around—I started at such a young age that I got thrown around a lot when I was in karate as a kid, moving into college years. But I really do love all the hard hits and driving. I’ve been doing stunts driving now for about eight years. So yeah, anything where I’m maybe flying through some glass or getting thrown out of a car, I totally dig it! Any of that.

LD: Have you ever had any major injuries?

HS: I’ve had a few. Biggest injury was not on Blindspot, actually it was right before I got on Blindspot. I was recovering from my biggest injury which was I was doing a high fall and there was faulty landing equipment, it was nobody’s fault, just a one in a billion chance I ended up injuring my neck pretty badly. I was out for about ten months from work, which was a really big bummer actually. And the doctor—I was in the ER from that injury and with you know, on morphine and valium and a neck brace and tears coming out of my eyes—the doctor’s like ‘Oh I guess this is gonna put a damper on your career’ and I’m like ‘Yeah, I really know what I’m going to do next time so I don’t hurt myself’ and he’s like ‘Next time?! Are you nuts?!’…I’m like ‘Well, yeah, I’m just bummed that it’s gonna be a while!’ So that was my most devastating injury. Everyone wanted to cut me open, everyone wanted to do surgery, they wanted to replace my disc, or fuse my spine and all this stuff…I kind of basically talked to doctors until I got the answer I wanted and then I found more doctors to support that.

LD: As a viewer, what are some of your favorite films or tv shows for stunts?

HS: Um…Blindspot? [laughs]…Oh, I really like Supergirl, is that WB? I do like Supergirl. I’m not gonna lie, I don’t watch a lot of TV because I work and I sleep and I try to watch Blindspot. But I do, actually, this new season of Iron Fist is probably my favorite bit of action on tv or Netflix…Blacklist, I love Blacklist. They just have such a variety of stunts on that show. And Game of Thrones. Come on, man, you can’t deny that setting like seventy five stunt people on fire is NOT cool. From a DRAGON. It’s insane.

LD: There’s a faction out there that is pushing for a Best Stunts category at the Academy Awards, how do you feel about that?

HS: I think that’s a good idea since like every other category is out there. I mean, I don’t know how you’d delegate that but I think that’s a good start to just recognizing it. I don’t do stunts, obviously, to be recognized. I love it because I get to kind of be the magician of the action world of film and tv. You don’t really want to give your tricks away, you want to make it an illusion…most, some people I know anyway, don’t do it for the glory. It’s not really about that. It’s about making good work. I would love to see it so it’s recognized as an art and as you know, that magical things that happens isn’t actually magic. It’s people that are putting their bodies and their lives on the line to bring everyone a cool product. CGI just doesn’t cut it for me, man!

Blindspot season 4 premieres Friday October 12th at 8pm on NBC.

*Check out our full chats with Blindspot stars Jaimie Alexander and Sullivan Stapleton!

Blu-ray Review “Horrible Bosses 2: Extended Cut”

Actors: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx
Directors: Sean Anders
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: February 24, 2015
Run Time: 108 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

When I saw 2011’s “Horrible Bosses”, I liked it but I didn’t love it. When I saw a sequel coming out, I had zero interest in seeing it. After watching it, I am happy to report that it was quite the surprise. The sequel actually better than the first film. Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis are funnier than ever together. These guys just crack me up and they must have had a blast working together on this film. I was literally laughing out loud, which is rare recently for today’s comedies. This was a riot and even though not perfect at all, was just a ton of fun.

Official Premise: Fed up with answering to higher-ups, Nick (Bateman), Dale (Day) and Kurt (Sudeikis) decide to become their own bosses by launching their own business in “Horrible Bosses 2.”  But a slick investor soon pulls the rug out from under them. Outplayed and desperate, and with no legal recourse, the three would-be entrepreneurs hatch a misguided plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and ransom him to regain control of their company.

The Blu-ray release of “Horrible Bosses 2” features both the film’s 108-minute theatrical version and a new 116-minute unrated extended cut. Even though longer, I still prefer the theatrical cut cause the extended cut drags in a bunch of spots. Comedies are always better the shorter they are…why don’t people learn this. We also see the return of Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacy this time around. Aniston nails it for sure, laugh riot!! Foxx and Spacy are quick cameos. New cast includes Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz, who still take a back seat to the trio lead.

The special features included are decent. There is “Endless Laughter Guaranteed! which features the cast talking about the film and endless riffs and improv. “Off the Cuff: One-Liners You Didn’t See” is more of the same with a bunch of alternate-take reels are available. “Let the Sexual Healing Begin” is faux promo for Dr. Julia Harris’ Sex Addict Group. “Who Invented the Shower Buddy” is a quick piece on film’s invention. “Nick Kurt Dale INC: Employee Testimonials” features Ray, Lupe and Candy reflecting on their bosses. Lastly “It’s the Shower Buddy Infomercial” is fun promo and “High Speed Crash Course” looks at the film’s chase scene.

Horrible Bosses 2 arrives onto Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on February 24th from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment

Blu-ray Review “Tammy: Extended Cut”

Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Dan Aykroyd, Susan Sarandon, Mark Duplass, Toni Collette, Sandra Oh
Director: Ben Falcone
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: November 11, 2014
Running Time: 97 / 101 minutes

Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

After “Bridesmaids”, Melissa McCarthy became a star. “Identity Thief” was lacking quite a bit. “Tammy” is even further down the line. When someone plays the same character time after time it gets quite old and that is the case here. Even though, I was not a fan of the film. You gotta give it to them for having a helluva cast besides Melissa McCarthy, the film co-stars Susan Sarandon, Allison Janney, Gary Cole, Toni Collette, Kathy Bates, Sandra Oh, Mark Duplass and Dan Aykroyd. I have to give it to the film since it kept the comedy in around 90 or so minutes, which I enjoy but the film still felt like it dragged for me.

Synopsis: Tammy (McCarthy) is having a bad day. She’s totaled her clunker car, gotten fired from her thankless job at a greasy burger joint, and instead of finding comfort at home, finds her husband getting comfortable with the neighbor in her own house. It’s time to take her boom box and book it. The bad news is she’s broke and without wheels. The worse news is her grandma, Pearl (Sarandon), is her only option—with a car, cash, and an itch to see Niagara Falls. Not exactly the escape Tammy had in mind. But on the road, with Pearl riding shotgun, it may be just what Tammy needs.

Warner Bros is releasing this film as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD + UltraViolet Digital HD copy. The Blu-ray edition features the film’s theatrical and extended cuts, which runs about 14 minutes longer. The 1080p transfer and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track are good but nothing to brag about, especially since it is a comedy. The special features are weak like the film including “Tammy’s Road Trip Checklist”, which is a travelogue with McCarthy and the director on the making of the film. “Fun Extras” is a collection of three mash-ups including “P@#$-O-Rama”, “Wave-O-Rama” and “Mindless Chat-O-Rama”. The rest is a bunch of gags and deleted scenes.

Own “Tammy” on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, and Digital HD on November 11th

Blu-ray Reveiw “Nightbreed: The Director’s Cut”

Starring: Craig Sheffer, David Cronenberg, Anne Bobby, Charles Haid, Hugh Quarshie, Hugh Ross
Director: Clive Barker
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: October 28, 2014
Run Time: 120 minutes

Director’s Cut: 3 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Nightbreed” is one of those movies that as a horror fan you can’t help but love. It is far from perfect in any sense but it is a cool little flick that has stuck around over the years. About 2 or so years ago, a new cut of the film emerged called “The Cabal Cut”, which ran about 160 minutes long put together with lost footage compiled over the years. Unfortunately, this is not “The Cabal Cut” that many fans have hoped for. What it is though is a new “Director’s Cut” of film which contains over 40 minutes of new and altered footage. So we get some new footage and at the same time loose some footage. The director’s cut is good but I feel like it is rather choppy and not as tight as I would have thought so. We do certainly get a completely different viewing experience if you think you know “Nightbreed”, so I will let horror fans see for themselves. Either way, “Nighbreed” is finally on Blu-ray”!

If you are wondering what director Clive Barker thinks about this, here is his office’s official statement: “The Nightbreed Director’s Cut is an entirely different film than the one which was released in theaters. Its 20 minutes longer than the theatrical cut, but it contains over 40 minutes of new and altered footage. Clive oversaw the reconstruction and edit himself, personally ensuring that, at long last, he was able to tell the story he always wanted to tell, but until now, had never been given the chance. Once the scenes were reordered, and the original film footage restored, the entire film received a brand new sound mix and color pass. It is, in every way, a different movie. It contains more story, more monsters, and there’s even a musical number. Ultimately, what we’ve delivered is a love story 25 years in the making”.

Official Premise: Boone (Craig Sheffer) may be a troubled young man, but his troubles are just beginning. Set up as the fall guy in a string of slasher murders, he decides he’ll hide by crossing the threshold that separates ’us’from ’them’and sneak into the forbidden subterranean realm of Midian. Boone will live among the monsters. Hellraiser creator Clive Barker writes (adapting his novel Cabal) and directs this vivid leap into horror that asks: in the battle of man vs. monster, who’s really the monster? The answer supplies flesh-crawling suspense, sudden fear, a colorful Danny Elfman score and a creepy array of shape-shifting beings. They are the Nightbreed, denizens of a world beyond death, beyond the imagination, perhaps beyond anything you’ve seen.

Shout Factory! is releasing this Director’s Cut as a combo pack with a Blu-ray + DVD included. They are also releasing a Limited-Edition 3-Disc release consists of only of 10,000 copies, which includes a collector’s book, a bonus disc of extras and the theatrical cut available on Blu-ray for the first time only in this release. I would certainly recommend that release over this one any day. The 1080p transfer has been said to been mastered in high definition from the original camera negative but there is some parts where the quality is very questionable. I understand it was taken from many different sources, I just expect a little more polish. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works perfect though along with Danny Elfman’s amazing and memorable score.

The special features on this “Director’s Cut” release are good but not super outstanding. Like I mentioned the Limited Edition release has an entire Blu-ray for extras. Here we get an introduction by writer/director Clive Barker and restoration producer Mark Alan Miller, which goes into about the Director’s Cut…man does Barker look like shit BTW> There is a brand new audio commentary track with writer/director Clive Barker and restoration producer Mark Alan Miller. There is a new featurette called “Tribes of the Moon: The Making of Nightbreed”, which runs over 70 minutes and features interviews with Craig Sheffer, Anne Bobby, Doug Bradley and more, “Making Monsters” runs over 40 minutes with interviews with makeup effects artists Bob Keen, Martin Mercer and Paul Jones. “Fire! Fights! Stunts! 2nd Unit Shooting” is a 20 minute interview with Andy Armstrong. Lastly there is an Original Theatrical Trailer included.

 

Full Moon wants to cut off your head with their latest contest for their new series “Trophy Heads”

Calling all horror fans! Full Moon’s new series, Trophy Heads, shot this year, is getting ready to premiere on June 6th on http://fullmoonstreaming.com. Us here at Media Mikes are huge fans and supporters of Full Moon and their projects. We wanted to let you all know about the  awesome contest that going on and all you have to do to enter is let Full Moon chop off your head…

Submit a photo of your head to submit@fullmoonfeatures.com  and we will send you a customized mounted head image of you to use as your Face Book profile picture, link it to Fullmoonstreaming.com and that’s all you need to do to enter the contest.

To check out the details on the contest and what the many prizes are follow this link  http://fullmoonstreaming.com/Submit-Your-Head

Blu-ray Review “Alexander: The Ultimate Cut – The 10th Anniversary”

Starring: Colin Farrell, Angelina Jolie, Val Kilmer, Jared Leto, Anthony Hopkins, Rosario Dawson
Director: Oliver Stone
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: June 3, 2014
Run Time: 175 / 206 minutes

Ultimate Cut: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

“Alexander” is like the film that never goes away. Since the film was released 10 years ago there has been various cuts of the film from The Theatrical Cut to The Final Cut (which wasn’t the final cut) and now we have The Ultimate Cut right in time for the film’s 10th Anniversary. Oliver Stone really does love editing his films after they are done. The Theatrical Cut was released in 2004 and is 175 minutes. The Final Cut released in 2007 is a whopping 213 minutes and is actually structured much differently. The Ultimate Cut is a little slimmer but not by much clocking in at 206 minutes with an intermission.

Official Premise: Alexander is based on the true story of one of history’s most luminous and influential leaders; a man who had conquered 90% of the known world by the age of 25. The film chronicles Alexander’s path to becoming a living legend, from a youth fuelled by dreams of myth, glory and adventure, to his intense bonds with his closest companions, to his lonely death as a ruler of a vast empire. The film stars Colin Farrell as Alexander, Angelina Jolie as Queen Olympias, Val Kilmer as King Philip II, Anthony Hopkins as Ptolemy, Jared Leto as Hephaistion, Rosario Dawson as Roxana, Christopher Plummer as Aristotle, and Jonathan Rhys Meyers as Cassander.

Since the film was original cut to reduce violence and sexuality, the director was unable to achieve his vision. With this Ultimate Cut, Stone follows closely to the outline of his original script and clocking in 31 minutes longer that the theatrical cut, this is in fact the Ultimate Cut of this film. I have to admit, this is actually a better cut than the theatrical release. This 10th Anniversary Blu-ray both the 2004 theatrical cut and the new Ultimate Cut. I would have loved to see them go to hell with themselves and just include The Final Cut as well. This Blu-ray also includes The Ultimate Cut on Digital HD with UltraViolet.

I was really impressed with the special features included for this release because the new cut is a bonus enough but they went ahead and still delivered a bunch of new extras. Firstly, there is a new documentary “The Real Alexander and the World He Made”, which looks into the life and legacy of Alexander the Great. There is a brand new Ultimate Cut commentary track from Oliver Stone, as well as a theatrical cut commentary was well with Oliver Stone and Robin Lane Fox. Oliver’s also talented son Sean Stone has his own feature-length documentary called “Fight Against Time: Oliver Stone’s Alexander”.

There is also four featurettes included on the production including “Resurrecting Alexander”, “Perfect Is The Enemy of Good”, “The Death of Alexander” and “Vangelis Scores Alexander”. But wait there is still more included here. There is an awesome “The Art of Alexander”40-page art book, which features numerous concept drawings, production storyboards and behind-the-scenes photographs. As well as collectible packaging, with correspondence memos between Oliver Stone and his cast and crew. If you enjoyed this film or didn’t enjoy this film, this is a really great collectible and a much improved cut of the film for sure.

Alexander: The Ultimate Cut + Theatrical 10th Anniversary UCE is available on Blu-ray 6/3/14 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/AULTWBShop

Extended Director’s Cut of Cliver Barker’s “Nightbreed” Scheduled to Be Released in 2014 from Scream Factory

Shout! Factory and Morgan Creek Productions officially announced today a strategic distribution alliance to bring Clive Barker’s classic horror film “Nightbreed” extended director’s cut to the home entertainment marketplace in the U.S and Canada and on digital entertainment platforms next year. The announcement was made by Shout! Factory’s founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos along with and David Robinson, President of Morgan Creek Productions. The news initially broke at Comic-Con 2013, however the agreement formally reached by both parties occurred today.

For years rumors swirled about substantial missing footage from the film. A fan-driven movement was created (www.OccupyMidian.com) to see the full version of the film restored and re-released, which was not only a more faithful adaptation of Clive Barker’s book “Cabal,” but is what originally he intended “Nightbreed” to be.

Clive Barker said, “I had a dream about the tribes of the moon. They would live in a city called Midian and, though they were monsters of every shape and size, they would be the heroes of a movie called “Nightbreed.” However, when I made the movie, the studio was not comfortable with this inversion of the classic structure. They wanted the monsters to be simple-minded scare machines, while I wanted them to be the dark side of all of us, mysterious and misunderstood. Finally, with this new version of “Nightbreed,” which contains over forty five minutes of previously unseen material, my original vision has been realized. Come with me to Midian, the city of monsters. The tribes of the moon await us.”

“We are excited by this opportunity with Morgan Creek and are huge fans of Clive Barker. His cinematic works and brilliant storytelling continue to captivate fans worldwide,” stated Shout! Factory’s founders in a joint statement. “We look forward to working closely with Clive to bring his original vision to life.”

Shout!’s SCREAM FACTORY plans an aggressive rollout of “Nightbreed” extended director’s cut through physical home entertainment releases and a variety of digital entertainment distribution platforms sometimes next year.

“We’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the fans,” noted Robinson. “Without their hard work and persistence, this would have never become a reality. Clive Barker is one of the greats, and we are tremendously proud and excited to be working with him and Shout! Factory on this release.”

The original “Nightbreed” was released in 1990 by Morgan Creek Productions and Twentieth Century Fox. Directed by Clive Barker, the film starred Craig Sheffer, Anne Bobby and David Cronenberg and centered on a tribe of monsters and outcasts known as the Nightbreed that hide from humanity.

The official “Nightbreed” page can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/FansOfNightbreed

About Morgan Creek
For over twenty years, Morgan Creek Productions has produced numerous highly successful and critically acclaimed motion pictures including the Young Guns and Major League franchises; Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves starring Kevin Costner; and Ace Ventura, the hit comedy that established Jim Carrey as one of the leading comedians of our time. Morgan Creek recently released Dream House, starring Daniel Craig and Naomi Watts. Currently in production is the biopic Tupac which is scheduled to start production next year. For more information, visit MorganCreek.com.
Insert Morgan Creek Productions boiler plate

About Shout! Factory
Shout! Factory, LLC is a diversified multi-platform media company devoted to producing, uncovering, preserving and revitalizing the very best of pop culture. Founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos have spent their entire careers sharing their music, television and film favorites with discerning consumers the world over. Shout! Factory’s DVD and Blu-Ray™ offerings serve up feature films, classic and contemporary TV series, animation, live music and comedy specials in lavish packages crammed with extras. Shout’s audio division boasts GRAMMY®-nominated box sets, Broadway cast albums, new releases from storied artists, lovingly assembled album reissues and indispensable “best of” compilations. In addition, Shout! Factory maintains a vast digital distribution network which delivers video and audio content to all the leading digital service providers in North America. Shout! Factory also owns and operates Timeless Media Group, Biograph Records, Majordomo Records, HighTone Records and Video Time Machine. These riches are the result of a creative acquisition mandate that has established the company as a hotbed of cultural preservation and commercial reinvention. Shout! Factory is based in Santa Monica, California. For more on Shout! Factory, visit shoutfactory.co

“World War Z” Unrated Cut Including More Intense Thrills & Action Not Seen in Theaters Arrives Exclusively on Blu-ray™ September 17th

BRAD PITT STARS IN THE BLOCKBUSTER PHENOMENON

WORLD WAR Z

 Unrated Cut Including More Intense Thrills & Action Not Seen in Theaters Arrives Exclusively on Blu-ray September 17th

Global Hit Debuts One Week Early on Digital

HOLLYWOOD, Calif.  – August 2, 2013 –  “The suspense is killer!” (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone) in the fast-paced, pulse-pounding epic WORLD WAR Z, debuting on Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, DVD and On Demand on September 17, 2013.  The pandemic begins one week early on Digital September 10th.  Due to overwhelming demand, the film has been digitally re-mastered into the immersive IMAX® 3D format and will be released in select IMAX theaters domestically for an exclusive one-week running beginning today.

Starring international superstar Brad Pitt and based on the best-selling and wildly popular novel, WORLD WAR Z took audiences by storm and was hailed by critics as   “thrilling, epic and spectacular” (Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly) and the “most gratifying action spectacle in years!” (David Denby, The New Yorker).  The tense and thrilling film follows a former United Nations investigator (Pitt) as he helps stop the chaotic pandemic that has gripped populations around the world.  WORLD WAR Z features stunning visual effects and edge-of-your-seat action and suspense that take the Zombie apocalypse phenomenon to a more extreme and electrifying level.

“I’m really excited for fans to see the new unrated version of WORLD WAR Z on Blu-ray,” said producer and star Brad Pitt.  “We were thrilled with the audience response to the film in theaters and wanted to give viewers even more of the action and intensity that they loved when they watch the film at home.”

WORLD WAR Z will be available on Blu-ray Combo or Blu-ray 3D Combo with an Unrated Cut packed with even more thrills and action too intense for theaters, along with the theatrical version of the film.  The combo packs feature UltraViolet™ and boast in-depth looks at the making of the film, the seamless blending of practical and digital effects, the science behind the Zombie outbreak and much more.  The film will also be available as a single-disc DVD.

 

WORLD WAR Z Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack

The WORLD WAR Z Blu-ray is presented in 1080p high definition with English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital and English Audio Description and English, English SDH, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles.  The DVD in the combo pack is presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 TVs with English 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and English Audio Description and English, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles.  The combo pack includes access to a digital copy of the film as well as the following:

 

Blu-ray

  • Feature film in high definition (Unrated version)
  • Origins—The filmmakers discuss collaborating with renowned actor/producer Brad Pitt to create a Zombie film the likes of which have never been seen.
  • Looking to Science—Explore the scientific realities of Zombie behavior in nature and learn more about Zombies in literature and film.
  • WWZ: Production

o   Outbreak—Go on set with Brad Pitt and director Marc Forster for a behind-the-scenes look at the film’s breathtaking first attack in Philadelphia.

o   The Journey Begins—Delve deeper into Gerry’s fight for survival during the dramatic escape in South Korea.

o   Behind The Wall—Explore the epic scene in Jerusalem and discover the incredible logistics of creating the elaborate stunts and crowd sequences.

o   Camouflage—Experience the final confrontation between Gerry and the Zombies and discover the phenomenal scope of the film’s production.
DVD

  • Feature film in standard definition (Theatrical version)

 

 

WORLD WAR Z Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack

The WORLD WAR Z Blu-ray 3D combo pack includes all of the above, as well as the theatrical version of the film in high definition and 3D on a discpresented in 1080p high definition with English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital and English Audio Description and English, English SDH, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles.

WORLD WAR Z Single-Disc DVD

The single-disc DVD is presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 TVs with English 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and English Audio Description and English, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles.  The disc includes the theatrical version of the film in standard definition.

The Blu-ray releases available for purchase will be enabled with UltraViolet, a new way to collect, access and enjoy movies.  With UltraViolet, consumers can add movies to their digital collection in the cloud, and then stream or download them – reliably and securely – to a variety of devices.   

Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions present in association with Hemisphere Media Capital and GK Films a Plan B/2DUX2 Production of a Marc Forster Film:  “World War Z.”  Executive producers Marc Forster, Brad Simpson, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Paul Schwake, Graham King, and Tim Headington.  Produced by Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner and Ian Bryce.  Based on the novel by Max Brooks.  Screen Story by Matthew Michael Carnahan and J. Michael Straczynski. Screenplay by Matthew Michael Carnahan and Drew Goddard & Damon Lindelof. Directed by Marc Forster.

Blu-ray Review “The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day (Director’s Cut)”

Actors: Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., Julie Benz
Director: Troy Duffy
Rated: R (Restricted) / Unrated
Studio: Sony Pictures
DVD Release Date: July 16, 2013
Run Time: 117 / 144 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

I remember I rented the first “The Boondock Saints” on VHS when it was a ‘Blockbuster Exclusive’ rental. This was almost 15 years ago and before it was this cult phenomenon. When there was word that “The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day” was being made 10 years after the first, I think it made every fan jump up and down (including myself). Well it’s been 4 years since this sequel was released and we can get excited again since Writer/Director Troy Duffy’s is releasing a new Director’s Cut which features 27 Minutes of Never-Before-Seen Extended Footage. There is a longer opening sequence, a lengthened fantasy sequence and an extended elevator sequence leading up to the Prudential shoot-out. So with the director’s cut the running time gets bumped up to 144 minutes and it is AMAZING!

“The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day” is a a rare feat where it actually tops the original. This sequel to back the original cast, Including Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus and Billy Connolly along with new additions including Clifton Collins Jr., Julie Benz, Peter Fonda and Judd Nelson. I do not remember a more explosive theatrical experience then when I saw this film in theaters. I know fans have been bugging writer/director Troy Duffy to do a third film and I really hope that happens one day. I am not sure why this release is coming now, if not to capitalize on Norman Reedus’ insane fandom from “The Walking Dead”, but either way I am excited and it is a must for any fan of this series!

Official Premise: 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!

The 1080p transfer still looks great like the past releases, especially with the new footage. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track is killer as well with the non-stop action. The line “Ding Ding Motherfucka! Ding Dong!” is presented perfectly. The real catch for this release is that it comes as a two-Disc Blu-ray combo pack with both the Theatrical and Director’s Cut versions. This release is currently set as a Best Buy exclusive release, so fans need to be sure to pick this up for sure.

The special features are in-line with the past Blu-ray releases. We get a pair of audio commentary tracks from cast and crew. There are two short deleted scenes. Then there are seven featurettes including “Unprecedented Access: Behind the Scenes”, “Billy Connolly and Troy Duffy: Unedited”, “The Cast Confesses: Secrets From the Set”, “Inside the Vault: The Weapons”, “‘The Boondock Saints’ Hit Comic-Con”, “Saints Off Script” and “Back to Boondock”. All these special features are must see for any fan of the series but they are not anything new for this release. But don’t forget that this new release contains the pretty sweet director’s cut of the film, so that is enough for me!

 

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“The Exorcist” 40th Anniversary Extended Director’s Cut Blu-ray Streets October 8th

THE EXORCIST CELEBRATES 40THANNIVERSARY OCTOBER 8

Blu-ray Includes the Extended Director’s Cut, Theatrical Version  with New Special Features and Premiums

Burbank, Calif. June 20, 2013 – When The Exorcist was first released in 1973, viewers were frightened out of their wits – and literally out of their seats. Now Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Academy Award® winning director William Friedkin’s suspense masterpiece that haunted and intrigued the world, with a new Blu-ray release featuring the Extended Director’s Cut and Theatrical Version with new special features and premiums ($49.99 SRP). Available October 8, just ahead of Halloween, this 40th Anniversary Edition will include two new featurettes: “Beyond Comprehension: William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist” and “Talk of the Devil,” as well as an excerpt from Friedkin’s book The Friedkin Connection: A Memoir.

A true cinema landmark, the theological thriller is one of the top ten box-office performers of all time.* The Exorcist took 10 Academy Award® nominations[i], including Best Picture, and won two Oscars®[ii], for Best Adapted Screenplay, as well as winning for Best Sound. Subsequently, the film went on to become a multi-million dollar franchise. Directed by Friedkin (Oscar®-winner for The French Connection – Directing 1971) and written by William Peter Blatty, the film is based on his best-selling novel, which sold nearly 13 million copies domestically and was the #1 book on the New York Times Best Seller List for 57 weeks, 17 of them at #1.

Regarding the Extended Director’s Cut, Friedkin says, “After my initial cut, I took out 12 more minutes before we released it in theatres. Years later, Bill Blatty asked if I’d review some of that rejected footage (which he always felt should have remained) with an eye towards putting it back in a new version. In so doing I believe we strengthened the spiritual aspect of the film.”

Celebrated for his directorial role in this seminal film, Friedkin is still very much in the limelight. His new book, The Friedkin Connection: A Memoir,recently published by HarperCollins, extensively discusses the background and casting of The Exorcist. The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films will honor Friedkin this month with their Lifetime Achievement Award for his continually influential work in genre entertainment at this year’s Saturn Awards. In August, Friedkin will receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 70th Venice International Film Festival, where he will present the restored version of Warner Bros.’ Sorcerer. And Friedkin and author Blatty will attend a special 40th Anniversary screening of their film at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. on October 30. The film will also have an exclusive theatrical engagement October 31 through November 7th at the AMC Georgetown.

Synopsis

The Exorcist tells the now-famous story of a girl’s demonic possession, and a gripping fight between good and evil. Linda Blair, in a breakout role, plays Regan, a young girl who starts to exhibit strange, arcane behavior. Her mother (Ellen Burstyn, Oscarâ-winner for Best Actress Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore) calls upon a priest, Father Karras (Jason Miller) to investigate. But Karras, who has a spiritual crisis of his own, is suddenly confronted with the unimaginable evil of Regan’s possession. Father Lankester Merrin (Max Von Sydow), an archeologist-priest, is called to help, and a horrific battle for her soul begins.

Special Features:

  • Beyond Comprehension: William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist (NEW) 40 years after his novel was published, The Exorcist author, screenwriter and producer returns to where it all began. First stop is a cabin/guest house in the hills of Encino, California, where Blatty wrote the novel. The author visits the place for the first time in 40 years and shares not only memories of writing the book, but also discusses how it inspired him. We then meet Blatty in two key and iconic locations; Georgetown University where the film was shot, and at the now-famous Exorciststeps. Throughout, Blatty reads from his novel, including an excerpt from a chilling newly published passage.
  • Talk of the Devil (NEW) – While at Georgetown University, William Peter Blatty heard about a true case of possession from Father Eugene Gallagher. At the time the film came out, the priest talked at length about exorcism, the true story and about Blatty; this footage is now available for the first time in many years. It is as revealing as it is shocking.
  • Two Commentaries by William Friedkin
  • Commentary by William Peter Blatty
  • Introduction by William Friedkin
  • 1998 BBC Documentary “The Fear of God: 25 Years of the Exorcist”
  • Raising Hell: Filming the Exorcist Set footage produced and photographed by Owen Roizman, camera and makeup tests, and interviews with director William Friedkin, actress Linda Blair, author/screenwriter/producer William Peter Blatty and Owen Roizman.
  • The Exorcist Locations: Georgetown Then and Now — Featuring a tour of the iconic locations where the film was shot.
  • Faces of Evil: The Different Versions of The Exorcist — with director William Friedkin and author/screenwriter/producer William Peter Blatty discussing the different versions of the film and featuring outtakes from the film.
  • Original Ending
  • Interviews

o   The Original Cut

o   Stairway to Heaven

o   The Final Reckoning

  • Sketches & Storyboards
  • Radio Spots
  • TV Spots
  • Trailers

Premium:

Excerpt of The Friedkin Connection: A Memoir

 The Exorcist 40th Anniversary Extended Director’s Cut Blu-ray™

Street Date: October 8, 2013

Order Due Date: September 3, 2013

Rated R

Run Time: 132min (Extended Director’s Cut)

122 (Theatrical Version)

Pricing: $49.99 SRP

Blu-ray Review "Paranormal Activity 4: Unrated Director’s Cut"

Actors: Kathryn Newton, Katie Featherston, Alexondra Lee, Matt Shively, Stephen Dunham
Directors: Ariel Schulman, Henry Joost
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: January 29, 2013
Run Time: 87 minutes (Theatrical) / 96 minutes (Unrated)

Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars

I am a big fan of the “Paranormal Activity” franchise. I was literally first in line with my sister and fellow fan for the fourth film. I have to say, I was a little bit disappointed. This film was fun and exciting but it didn’t pack the mystery and intrigue that the others had. This release includes both the unrated director’s cut and the theatrical cut of the film.  I watched the unrated cut and I really didn’t pick up on the difference. Also there are two new characters added according to the credits. Even though, the film does works a little better second time though, since I think my expectations were lower. Nonetheless, I still stand behind this franchise and look forward “Paranormal Activity 5” this October, as well as the spin-off “Paranormal Activity: The Oxnard Tapes” later this year. Bring it on Toby!

Official Synopsis: Fourth film in the found footage horror franchise which follows on from events in the first two films. Alice (Newton) and her mother were fine until their new neighbors moved in, but the creepy little kid next door, Robbie (Brady Allen) and his auntie Katie (Featherston) have brought more than just their belongings to the neighborhood. It seems that the demonic presence which has tormented them for years has followed them and is keen on getting to know the neighbors.

Paramount delivers a nice Blu-ray presentation in a combo back including a Blu-ray disc, DVD disc as well as an Utralviolet streaming digital copy.  I am a big fan of the UV digital copies and enjoy this being an added feature to this release.  When it comes to found footage, you have to give the quality of the transfer a big of room since it is shot on various formats.  But “PA4” really delivers a nice clean 1080p transfer with a sharp DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The special features on this release are not that great in terms of quantity.  “The Recovered Files” is the only extra included but it does include about 30 minutes more additional ‘found footage’ (check the link below).  There are a great deal of pre-release footage for “PA4” that did not end up in the final film. So we get a chance to see that footage here and some of it really backs some decent content. If you are a fan of the franchise though, I did enjoy footage and I recommend you checking it out.

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Blu-ray Review “Killer Joe: Unrated Director’s Cut”

Actors: Matthew McConaughey, Emile Hirsch, Thomas Haden Church, Juno Temple, Gina Gershon
Directors: William Friedkin
Rated: Unrated
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: December 21, 2012
Run Time: 102 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

“Killer Joe” received some controversy behind it when it was released in theaters with its NC-17 rating. But controversy is nothing new to the Academy Award-winning director, William Friedkin, known best for “The Exorcist” and “The French Connection”. This dark comedy is based on the play by Pulitzer and Tony Award winner Tracy Letts and it converts well to the screen. I wasn’t sure what to expect at first but “Killer Joe” is a real surprise hit of the year. It packs some amazing performance from Matthew McConaughey, which was both ferrous and yet funny. The genre of a dark comedy is always a hard line to walk well, “Killer Joe” may not be for everyone.  But if you enjoy Friedkin then I would definitely recommend checking this unique film out.

Official Synopsis: When 22-year-old Chris (Emile Hirsch) finds himself in debt to a drug lord, he hires a hit man to dispatch his mother, whose $50,000 life insurance policy benefits his sister Dottie (Juno Temple). Chris finds Joe Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), a creepy, crazy Dallas cop who moonlights as a contract killer. When Chris can’t pay Joe upfront, Jose sets his sight on Dottie as collateral for the job. The contract killer and his hostage develop an unusual bond. Like from a modern-day, twisted fairytale, “Killer Joe” Cooper becomes the prince to Dottie’s Cinderella.

The Blu-ray presentation comes with a sharp 1080p transfer and DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio track.  BOth not ground-breaking but very clear and sharp. Since this film was released NC-17 in theaters, the film arrives on Blu-ray in this Unrated Director’s Cut.  There will also be an R-rated DVD version released but I prefer the director’s vision of the film.  The Unrated Director’s Cut will also feature an exclusive audio commentary track from director William Friedkin, highly recommended. The rest of the special features are decent but not spectacular. There is a featurette called “Southern Fried Hospitality: From Stage to Screen”, takes us through from the beginning.  Besides that there is some footage from SXSW including a Q&A with Cast and an intro by William Friedkin.  Wrapping up, there is the Red Band Theatrical Trailer included.

Blu-ray Review “Total Recall: Extended Director’s Cut”

Actors: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel, Bryan Cranston, Bokeem Woodbine
Directors: Len Wiseman
MPAA Rating: PG-13 / Not Rated
Studio: Sony
Release Date: December 18, 2012
Run Time: 118 / 130 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 4 out of 5 stars

Alright, we all love Paul Verhoeven’s “Total Recall” from 1990 with Arnold Schwarzenegger. This 2012 reboot there very hard to compare to that film, maybe a little too hard. It picks and chooses aspects of the original film, while trying to stand out on its own. I do have a bit weak spot for science ficiton. This film is very sly and sharp. It is a well-polished, very loud and colorful action/thriller. Colin Farrell is good in the role but does have that comedy angle that Schwarzenegger brought to the role in the original. If the amazing CG and visuals aren’t enough for you, Kate Beckinsale and Jessica Biel are great eye candy to look out. If you can get over the fact that this film is called “Total Recall”, there is a lot of action packed fun to be had here.

Official Synopsis: Prepare for non-stop excitement and pulse-pounding thrills in this “smart, sexy and action-packed” (Scott Mantz, Access Hollywood) action thriller. Colin Farrell stars as Douglas Quaid, a factory worker who visits Rekall, a revolutionary company that can turn his superspy fantasies into real memories. But when the procedure goes horribly wrong, the line between fantasy and reality blurs as Quaid becomes a man on the run and the fate of his world hangs in the balance. Costarring Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel and Bryan Cranston, Total Recall is bursting with mind-blowing action sequences and spectacular visual effects, the ultimate high-energy thrill-ride!

Whether you enjoyed this film or not Sony delivers an amazing three-disc release with with two Blu-rays’s and a DVD. There is also a Ultraviolet digital streaming copy included. There are two cuts of the film including the theatrical release (118 minutes) and the extended director’s cut (130 minutes). The DVD and Ultraviolet copies only packs the theatrical release. The extended director’s cut really improves the film quite a bit, instead of the play-it-safe PG-13 theatrical release. I really enjoyed the new story lines and alternate ending. This is the way the film was meant to been seen and the way that I would recommend watching. “Total Recall” delivers one of the years best high definition 1080p transfers. It is literally perfect and works so well with this very pretty looking film. The audio also delivers a perfectly balanced Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround sound track.

The special features are nothing short of amazing on this release. On the first Blu-ray, there is a great and very honest commentary track from director Len Wiseman. Highly recommend this track. ““Total Recall Insight Mode” is perfect to check out during a second viewing since it allows the viewers to watch behind-the-scenes clips through the film. On Disc two there is a multitude of featurettes, as well as a 8-minute gag reel. “Science Fiction vs. Science Fact” is a look into the reality behind the future with Michio Kaku, Professor of Theoretical Physics and Author of Physics of the Future. “Designing The Fall” looks into the visuals and set designs but runs way too short. “Total Action” is a seven-part feature focusing on the films actors Colin Farrell, Jessica Biel and Kate Beckinsale and the making of key scenes including the film’s climax.

The last feature on disc two is a collection of Pre-Visualization Sequences called “Stepping Into Recall”. It shows various scenes in different animated states includingt “Apartment Waterfront Chase”, “The Fall Fight”, “Flight and Tripping Den”, “Elevator Chase” and “Car Chase”. The DVD of the film contains the gag reel, “Total Recall Insight Mode,” and the “Science Fiction vs. Science Fact” and “Designing the Fall” featurettes. Also not sure how this is related to “Total Recall” but there is a playable game demo of “”God of War™: Ascension”” for Playstation 3, which is in advance of its March 12, 2013 release. But it is a nice treat for fans of the game’s franchise!

Blu-ray Review “The Campaign: Extended Cut”

Starring: Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Sudeikis, Dylan McDermott, Brian Cox, John Lithgow
Director: Jay Roach
Rated: R / Unrated
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: October 30, 2012
Run Time: 85 minutes (R-Rated) / 96 minutes (Extended)

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
EXtras: 3 out of 5 stars

Not sure about everyone else, but I am sick and tired of all the political bullshit that has flooded the web and TV in the last few weeks. I am not a fan at all. I think the @ShitMyDadSays twitter feed has described the election process best “Anyone who thinks they know what’s best for 300 million people is a titanic asshole. So we’re just voting for king of the assholes.” Amen. So, this film was the answer to my prayers! It was a big FU to all things dealing it politics. It was completely raunchy over-the-top and in your face. I commend Jay Roach for finally returning to funny films, unlike the shitty “Meet the Parents” franchise. Will Ferrell is also at the top of his game in his funniest role since “Step Brothers”. Combine his performance with Zach Galifianakis’ belly-laughing character and it is a match made in heaven. The extended cut is actually a real nice improvement from the theatrical and contains an additional 11 minutes of hilarity. Don’t miss this film! Best comedy of the year, no question!

This release comes in a Blu-ray + DVD + UV Digital Copy combo pack. I love that Warner’s is known for this format and I love the use of Ultraviolet digital streaming! The video and audio on the Blu-ray does look great and the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 works perfect with the dialogue and the music.
Alright if you are looking for some deep production filled special features and great commentary tracks you are going to be very disappointed. But if you are looking for just some more madness and insanity continued from the film than you are going to like these extras. There is a Line-O-Rama, which is just a laugh after laugh mash-up. There are a few deleted scenes, some are funny enough to be in the film. Lastly there is a hilarious gag reel, that needs to be watched numerous times to catch everything missed due to laughing.

Official Premise: When long-term congressman Cam Brady (Will Ferrell) commits a major public gaffe before an upcoming election, a pair of ultra-wealthy CEOs plot to put up a rival candidate and gain influence over their North Carolina district. Their man: naïve Marty Huggins (Zach Galifianakis), director of the local Tourism Center. At first, Marty appears to be the unlikeliest possible choice but, with the help of his new benefactors’ support, a cutthroat campaign manager and his family’s political connections, he soon becomes a contender who gives the charismatic Cam plenty to worry about. As Election Day closes in, the two are locked in a dead heat, with insults quickly escalating to injury until all they care about is burying each other, in this mud-slinging, back-stabbing, home-wrecking comedy.

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