Blu-Ray Round Up

Blu-Ray Round Up, Nov. 5, 2009: ‘Battlestar Galactica: The Plan,’ ‘Love Actually’

BrianTT — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:07:28 -0700

CHICAGO – The Blu-Ray Round Up is back with two HD music releases, a beloved holiday movie from a director with a new comedy on the horizon (Richard Curtis, “Pirate Radio”), and a release that’s a must-own for fans of one of the most popular shows of the ’00s. This informative column is designed to let you know synopsis, technical specs, and features for titles that may have slipped under your radar. Pick your favorite.

“Nickelback: Live at Sturgis 2009” and “Rob Thomas: Something To Be Tour Live At Red Rocks” were released on October 13th, 2009.

“Battlestar Galactica: The Plan” was released on October 27th, 2009.

“Love Actually” was released on November 3rd, 2009.

“Battlestar Galactica: The Plan”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “The Cylons began as humanity’s robot servants. They rebelled and evolved and now they look like us. Their plan is simple: destroy the race that enslaved them. But when their devastating attack leaves human survivors, the Cylons have to improvise. Battlestar Galactica: The Plan tells the story of two powerful Cylon leaders, working separately, and their determination to finish the task.”

“Battlestar Galactica: The Plan” stars Edward James Olmos, Dead Stockwell, Michael Trucco, Grace Park, Aaron Douglas, Michael Hogan, Callum Keith Rennie, Rick Worthy, Lymari Nadal, and Tricia Helfer. It was written by Jane Espenson and directed by Edward James Olmos. The film runs 112 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in its original 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by aan English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include “From Admiral to Director: Edward James Olmos and The Plan,” “The Cylons of The Plan,” “The Cylon Attack,” “Visual Effects: The Magic Behind The Plan,” Deleted Scenes, and Commentary with Director/Actor Edward James Olmos and Executive Producer/Writer Jane Espenson.

“Love Actually”

Photo credit: Universal Home Video

Synopsis: “”Get Ready for Fun!” (Leah Rozen, People) with the “feel good movie of the year!” (Clay Smith, Access Hollywood) Love Actually is the ultimate romantic comedy from the makers of Bridget Jones’s Diary and Notting Hill. Funny, irresistible and heartwarming, an all-star cast (Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth and Emma Thompson, to name a few!) will take you on a breathtaking tour of love’s delightful twists and turns. Fall under the spell of Love Actually and share the laughs and charm again and again.”

“Love Actually” stars Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Liam Neeson, Martine McCutcheon, and Rowan Atkinson. It was written and directed by Richard Curtis. The film runs 135 minutes and is rated R. It is presented in its original 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Deleted Scenes, “The Music of Love Actually,” Kelly Clarkson “The Trouble With Love Is” Music Video, Billy Mack “Christmas is All Around” Music Video, “The Storytellers,” and Feature Commentary with Director Richard Curtis and Actors Hugh Grant, Bill Nighy, and Thomas Sangster.

“Nickelback: Live at Sturgis 2009”

Photo credit: E1 Entertainment

Synopsis: “Bikes! Babes! Bands! Join Nickelback as they take the stage in front of 35,000 screaming fans at the world-famous Sturgis “Rockin’ The Rally” show. Shot in glorious high definition, Nickelback Live At Sturgis 2006 is the definitive Nickelback live Blu-ray. Featuring 12 of the hard-rockin’ band’s fan favorites and a behind the scenes glimpse of life on the road for one of the biggest rock bands in the world, Nickelback Live At Sturgis captures the band firing on all cylinders and blowing the sold-out crowd away! Tracks include: Animals, Woke Up This Morning, Photograph, Because of You, Far Away, Curb Medley, Never Again, Savin’ Me, Someday, Side of a Bullet, Drum Solo, How You Remind Me Too Bad, Figured You Out.”

“Nickelback: Live at Sturgis 2009” was directed by Daniel E. Catullo III. The film runs 65 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track.

Special features include “Behind-the-Scenes with Nickelback,” Photo Gallery, “Sturgis 101 Vignette,” and “Rockstar” Video.

“Rob Thomas: Something To Be Tour Live at Red Rocks”

Photo credit: E1 Entertainment

Synopsis: “The Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado a legendary venue that has been graced by rock luminaries from The Beatles to U2 provides the awe-inspiring backdrop for Rob Thomas in one of the most memorable stops on his Something To Be Tour. Featuring the multi-platinum recording artist performing 18 hits from both Matchbox Twenty and his solo career, this incredible set also includes a special acoustic arrangement of “Smooth” and a cover of the David Bowie classic “Let¹s Dance.” Tracks include: Something To Be, Fallin’ To Pieces, If You’re Gone, When The Heartache Ends, Ever The Same, Not Just A Woman, 3 AM, You Won’t Be Mine, The Difference, Bent, Problems Girl, Let’s Dance, Lonely No More, I Am An Illusion, Now Comes The Night, Smooth, You Know Me, This Is How A Heart Breaks.”

“Rob Thomas: Something To Be Tour Live at Red Rocks” was directed by Joe Thomas. The film runs 95 minutes and is not rated. It is presented in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track.

Special features include a bonus “Streetcorner Symphony” video.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray Round Up, Oct. 15, 2009: ‘Wolf,’ ‘Waterworld,’ ‘Frankenstein’

BrianTT — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:37:48 -0600

CHICAGO – The Blu-Ray Round-Up is back with this week’s collection of HD titles that may not get the buzz of something like the latest Sandra Bullock romantic comedy or what Sam Raimi brought back from Hell but could be just what you’re looking for at the mall this weekend. A few modern horror movies, a notable box office bust, and a beloved BBC show highlight this week’s list. Pick your favorite.

“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein,” “Wolf,” and “Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut” was released on October 6th, 2009.

“Waterworld” will be released on October 20th, 2009.

“Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut”

Photo credit: BBC

Synopsis: “Back To Earth takes place after “Series X.” Kochanski’s dead and the crew are hurled through a portal and discover they’re just characters from a TV series. Knowing they will die in the final episode the Dwarfers, in best Blade Runner tradition, track down their creators to plead for more life. First the crew attempt to track down the actors who play them in the series and their metaphysical odyssey begins….”

“Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut” stars Chloe Annett, Chris Barrie, Robert Llewellyn, Craig Charles, and Danny John-Jules. It was written and directed by Doug Naylor. The movie runs 70 minutes. It is presented in its original 16:9 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English DTS-HD 5.1 track.

Special features include Cast Commentary, Director Commentary, All-New Exclusive Documentary, “The Making of Back to Earth, ” Deleted Scenes, Smeg Ups, Featurettes, Trailers, Web Videos, Photo Gallery, and Easter Egg.

“Waterworld”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “See one of the screen’s biggest action-adventure epics like never before - on Blu-ray Hi-Def! Set in the future when Earth is completely covered in water and the human race is struggling to survive, mankind’s one remaining hope for a better future is a drifter (Kevin Costner) who gets caught up in a battle between the evil Deacon (Dennis Hopper) and a child’s secret key to a wondrous place called “Dryland.” Featuring groundbreaking special effects, Waterworld is a visually stunning, futuristic thriller beyond your wildest imagination! ”

“Waterworld” stars Kevin Costner, Dennis Hopper, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Tina Majorino, and Michael Jeter. It was written by Peter Rader and David Twohy and directed by Kevin Reynolds. The film runs 136 minutes and is rated PG-13. It is presented in its original 1.85:1 widescreen aspect ratio and accompanied by an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include, sadly, nothing but access to the BD-Live Center. Shameful for Universal, one of the best studios at assembling interesting bonus material.

“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein”

Photo credit: Sony

Synopsis: “True to the original, here is the story of a young doctor whose obsession with death leads him to create a life. But his “creature,” crafted from the bodies of convicts and the brain of a brilliant scientist, is a hideous mockery of humanity. And when the creature realizes he will never be accepted by men, he seeks revenge on Dr. Frankenstein and his family. An inspired adaptation that’s emotionally complex and truly terrifying. Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein is “100% pure excitement. Visually stunning and refreshingly different” (Paul Wunder, WBAI Radio). ”

“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” stars Robert De Niro, Kenneth Branagh, Tom Hulce, Helena Bonham Carter, Aidan Quinn, Ian Holm and John Cleese. It was written by Steph Lady and Frank Darabont and directed by Kenneth Branagh. The film runs 123 minutes and is rated R. It is presented in its original widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by English, French, and Portuguese 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio tracks.

Once again, there are sadly no special features.

“Wolf”

Photo credit: Sony

Synopsis: “Jack Nicholson and Michelle Pfeiffer star in Wolf, a wickedly funny, wildly romantic, white-knucklethriller. James Spader (TV’s Boston Legal, Sex, Lies and Videotape), Kate Nelligan (The Prince of Tides), Christopher Plummer (The Sound of Music) and David Hyde Pierce (TV’s Frasier, Sleepless in Seattle) co-star in this beastly tale of love and betrayal with equal measures of humor, passion and delicious terror. ”

“Wolf” stars Jack Nicholson, Michelle Pfeiffer, James Spader, Kate Nelligan, Richard Jenkins, and Christopher Plummer. It was written by Jim Harrison and Wesley Strick and directed by Mike Nichols. It runs 125 minutes and is rated R. It is presented in its original standard, full-frame format and accompanied by a Dolby Digital Stereo track.

Three strikes. No special features here either.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray Round Up: MGM Releases Wave of Modern Horror Classics

BrianTT — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 07:16:28 -0600

CHICAGO – Start planning your Halloween marathon now. Last week, we highlighted the Universal wave of titles that included greats like “Shaun of the Dead” and “Army of Darkness” and we’re back with another wave of modern horror classics, including Oscar winners “Silence of the Lambs” and “Misery”.

The Blu-Ray Round-Up, HollywoodChicago.com’s regular column that highlights synopsis, tech details, and special features for titles that might otherwise fall through your Blu-Ray buying cracks, doesn’t usually play favorites, but every good horror fan should have “Manhunter,” “Silence,” “Child’s Play,” and “Misery” in their collection. Whether or not you need to own the “Wrong Turn” films is something only you can decide.

All five titles were released last week, September 15th, 2009. Both “Child’s Play” and “Misery” are presented in a BD/DVD combo pack with both HD and standard versions of the film.

“Child’s Play”

Photo credit: MGM/Fox

Synopsis: “The “chills come thick and fast” (Los Angeles Times) as voodoo and terror meet within an innocent-looking doll inhabited by the soul of a serial killer who isn’t ready to die. From the Director of Fright Night comes a “clever, playful” (The New York Times) and stylish thriller with “excellent special effects” (Leonard Maltin) and heart-pounding suspense guaranteed to scare! After 6-year-old Andy Barclay’s (Alex Vincent) babysitter is violently pushed out of a window to her death, nobody believes him when he says that “Chucky,” his new birthday doll, did it! Untilthings start going terribly wrong dead wrong. And when an ensuing rampage of gruesome murders lead a detective (Chris Sarandon) back to the same toy, he discovers that the real terror has just begun’the deranged doll has plans to transfer his evil spirit into a living human beingyoung Andy!”

“Child’s Play” stars Catherine Hicks and Chris Sarandon. It was written by Don Mancini and John Lafia and Tom Holland and directed by Holland. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Dolby Surround track, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and French Surround track. The film is rated R.

Special features on “Child’s Play” include Audio cmmentary with Alex Vincent, Catherine Hicks, and Chucky designer Kevin Yagher, Audio commentary with producer David Kirshner and screenwriter Don Mancini, Scene-specific Chucky commentaries, “Evil Comes in Small Packages 3,” “Chucky: Building a Nightmare,” “A Monster Convention,” “Introducing Chucky: The Making of Child’s Play,” Original Theatrical Trailer, and Still Photo Gallery.

“The Hannibal Lecter Collection”

Photo credit: MGM/Fox

Synopsis: “Witness the birth of evil in spine tingling clarity, as the eerie and intense Hannibal Lecter Anthology captures Manhunter, The Silence Of The Lambs and Hannibal together on stunning Blu-ray Disc for the first time. Manhunter, the intense thriller from writer-director Michael Mann (Heat, Public Enemies), first introduced the world to the cunning, unforgettable serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The psychological horror continues in The Silence Of The Lambs with Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins (The Elephant Man, Nixon) as the sophisticated murderer, alongside Oscar winner Jodie Foster (Maverick, Contact) as FBI agent Clarice Starling, who liaisons with the killer in order to solve a murder case. Lastly, Hopkins is “perverse perfection” (Rolling Stone) in his reprisal of the role of Dr. Lecter in Hannibal, as he comes out of hiding to draw FBI agent Clarice Starling (Julianne Moore; Boogie Nights) into a high-stakes battle that will test her strength, cunning and loyalty.”

“Manhunter” stars William Petersen, Joan Allen, Kim Greist, Brian Cox, Dennis Farina, Stephen Lang, and Tom Noonan. It was written and directed by Michael Mann. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and French 5.1 Dolby Digital track. The film is rated R.

“The Silence of the Lambs” stars Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn, and Ted Levine. It was written by Ted Tally and directed by Jonathan Demme. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and French 5.1 Dolby Digital track. The film is rated R.

“Hannibal” stars Anthony Hopkins, Julianne Moore, Ray Liotta, Frankie R. Faison, Giancarlo Giannini, and Francesca Neri. It was written by David Mamet and Steven Zaillian and directed by Ridley Scott. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and French 5.1 Dolby Digital track. The film is rated R.

None of the films include any special features.

“Misery”

Photo credit: MGM/Fox

Synopsis: “Novelist Paul Sheldon (Caan) doesn’t remember the blinding blizzard that sent his car spinning off the road. Nor does he remember being nursed back from unconsciousness. All he remembers iswaking up in the home of Annie Wilkes (Bates)a maniacal fan who is bent on keeping her favorite writer as her personal prisoner for the rest of his “cock-a-doodie” life!”

“Misery” stars James Caan, Kathy Bates, Frances Sternhagen, Richard Farnsworth, and Lauren Bacall. It was written by William Goldman and directed by Rob Reiner. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and French 5.1 DTS track. The film is rated R.

Special features include Audio Commentary by Director Rob Reiner, Audio Commentary by Screenwriter William Goldman, “Misery Loves Company,” “Marc Shaiman’s Musical Misery Tour,” “Diagnosing Annie Wilkes,” “Advice For the Stalked,” “Profile of a Stalker, “Celebrity Stalkers,” and “Anti-Stalking Laws”.

“Wrong Turn”

Photo credit: MGM/Fox

Synopsis: “An indescribable nightmare begins when a group of young friends is stranded on an isolated road deep in the Appalachian hills of West Virginia, with no hope of rescue. Desperate and fearing for their lives, the horror surges as they find themselves relentlessly pursued by a force of evil beyond their imagination!”

“Wrong Turn” stars Desmond Harrington, Eliza Dushku, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Jeremy Sisto, and Kevin Zegers. It was written by Alan McElroy and directed by Rob Schmidt. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Spanish Dolby Surround track, and French 5.1 Dolby Digital track. The film is rated R.

Special features include Commentary by Director Rob Schmidt and Stars Desmond Harrington and Eliza Dushku, Deleted Scenes, “The Making of Wrong Turn,” “Eliza Dushku: Babe in the Woods,” “Stan Winston,” “Fresh Meat: The Wounds of Wrong Turn,” and Original Theatrical Trailer.

“Wrong Turn 2: Dead End”

Photo credit: MGM/Fox

Synopsis: “This chilling sequel to the surprise hit film returns to the woods of West Virginia; a backdrop for the new reality television show “The Apocalypse: Ultimate Survivalist.” As the contestants compete in various challenges to test their physical and mental prowess they soon find themselves in a fight for their lives as they are stalked and hunted by a family of mutant, inbred cannibals.”

“Wrong Turn 2: Dead End” stars Erica Leerhsen, Henry Rollins, Texas Battle, and Kimberly Caldwell. It was written by Turi Meyer & Al Septien and directed by Joe Lynch. The film is presented in 1080p widescreen with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track, Spanish Dolby Surround track, and French 5.1 Dolby Digital track. The film is not rated.

Special features include “More Blood, More Guts: The Making of Wrong Turn 2,” “Making Gore Look Good,” “On Location With P-Nut,” and Cast & Crew Audio Commentaries.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray Round Up: Jet Li, Jackie Chan Highlight ‘Ultimate Force of Four’

BrianTT — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 09:56:11 -0600

CHICAGO – Attention martial arts fans, Buena Vista Home Video recently released a wave of martial arts films on Blu-Ray under the title “The Ultimate Force of Four” box set, including one of Jet Li’s best films, the spectacular “Hero,” from director Zhang Yimou. “Hero” is easily the highlight of the quartet of recent HD releases but “Iron Monkey,” “The Legend of Drunken Master,” and “Zatoichi” will all satisfy fans in 1080p (as long as they’re not purists about audio tracks).

Three of the four titles are merely HD imports of special features and films already available on standard DVD. The exception is “Hero,” which includes an all-new featurette and a digital copy, but is actually one of the most divisive Blu-Rays of the year. Miramax/Buena Vista has made the baffling choice to include a higher caliber quality of audio for the dubbed tracks on “Hero,” “Iron Monkey,” and “Zatoichi” than the original language tracks.

It’s a shocking and shameful choice. “Monkey” and “Zatoichi” haven’t stirred up as much controversy as “Hero,” mostly due to that film’s higher level of popularity, but any good movie fan will tell you that the original language track should be presented in at LEAST the same level of quality as the dub, arguably better quality to encourage more viewers to watch these films the way they were intended.

With the exception of “Hero,” the other three titles are a missed opportunity to include a new special feature on any of the releases, but not at all surprising. As the Blu-Ray revolution picks up steam, more and more films are merely being ported to Blu-Ray. It’s up to you to decide if they’re worth the upgrade. Synopsis, tech details, and special features follow.

“Hero”

Photo credit: Miramax

Synopsis: “This visually stunning cinematic masterpiece gives you the definitive Blu-Ray High Definition experience with its spectacular picture and theater-quality sound. Master filmmaker Quentin Tarantino presents “Hero” - starring martial arts legend Jet Li as a fearless warrior who rises up to defy an empire and unite a nation. With supernatural skill - and no fear - a nameless soldier (Jet Li) embarks on a mission of revenge against the fearsome army that massacred his people. Acclaimed by critics and honored with numerous awards, Hero was an Oscar and Golden Globe nominee.”

“Hero” stars Jet Li, Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Chen Dao Ming, and Donnie Yen. It was written by Li Feng, Zhang Yimou, & Wang Bin and directed by Yimou. The film is presented in 1080p High Definition with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD track and Chinese, French, and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital. Yes, the English dub track is higher quality than the original language of the film. It’s a ridiculous, indefensible decision.

Special features on “Hero” include the new “Close-Up of a Fight Scene,” “Inside the Action: A Conversation with Quentin Tarantino & Jet Li,” “Hero Defined - Making-Of Featurette,” “Storyboard,” “Soundtrack Spot,” and a digital copy of the film.

“Iron Monkey”

Photo credit: Miramax

Synopsis: “With sensational, nonstop martial arts excitement supplied by the acclaimed choreographer of The Matrix and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Iron Monkey is the spirited tale of a mysterious and mythical Chinese legend - now with pristine picture and theater-quality sound on Blu-Ray Disc. In a desperate and unjust land, where government corruption rules the day, only one man - known as the Iron Monkey - has the courage to challenge the system and fight back. Under the shadow of night, in the silence before dawn, he fights to give hope to the poor and the oppressed. Although no one knows his name or where he comes from, his heroism makes him a living legend to the people - and a wanted man to the powers that be. Presented by Quentin Tarantino - it’s the exhilarating action adventure critics everywhere have called one of the greatest martial arts films of all time.”

“Iron Monkey” stars Yu Rong Guang, Donnie Yen, Jean Wang, and Tsang Sze Man. It was written by Tsui Hark, Elsa Tang, & Lau Tai Mok and directed by Yuen Wo Ping. The film is presented in 1080p High Definition with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD track, Chinese 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and a Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital track.

Special features on “Iron Monkey” include an interview with Quentin Tarantino and an interview with Donnie Yen.

“The Legend of Drunken Master”

Photo credit: Miramax

Synopsis: “The action legend himself - Jackie Chan - explodes across the screen on Blu-Ray Disc in a power-packed adventure that critics agree captures some of the most incredible action stunts ever. When the British government is discovered smuggling precious Chinese artifacts out of the country, folklore hero Wong Fei Hung (Chan) uses his uniquely outlandish style of martial arts - Drunken Boxing - to fight the conspirators and salvage the valuables before it’s too late. And the more Hung drinks, the more agile he becomes - able to fend off numerous attacks with unbelievable moves. With Chinese treasures and family pride on the line, Hung, steps up to every challenge. It’s a fun and unstoppably entertaining hit in Blu-Ray High Definition.”

“The Legend of Drunken Master” stars Jackie Chan, Anita Mui, Ti Lung, Lau Ka Leung, and Andy Lau. It was written by Edward Tang, Tong Man Wing, & Yuen Chieh Chi and directed by Lau Ka Leung. The film is presented in 1080p High Definition with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD track, French 5.1 Dolby Digital track, and a Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital track.

Special features on “The Legend of Drunken Master” includes “Behind the Master: An Interview with Jackie Chan”.

“The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi”

Photo credit: Miramax

Synopsis: “Inventive and bold, this film shines with pristine picture and theater-quality sound on Blu-Ray Disc. In an empire ruled by fear, the people’s only hope is the ultimate weapon: Zatoichi (Takeshi Kitano) - a blind, nomadic samurai whose sword has made him a hero and whose courage has made him a legend. Determined to help the desperate residents of a village, Zatoichi seeks justice through revenge. It’s a wildly entertaining film that’s even more brilliant in Blu-Ray High Definition.”

“The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi” stars Beat Takeshi, Tadanobu Asano, Michiyo Ogusu, Yui Natsukawa, Guadalcanal Taka, Daigoro Tachibana, Yuko Daike, Ittoku Kishibe, Saburo Ishikura, and Akira Emoto. It was written and directed by Takeshi Kitano. The film is presented in 1080p High Definition with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD track, Japanese 5.1 Dolby Digital, and Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital track.

Special features on “Zatoichi” includes “Behind-the-Scenes Special” and “Exclusive Interviews With Crew”.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

TV on Blu-Ray Round Up: ‘Lie to Me,’ ‘Sons of Anarchy,’ ‘Life After People’

BrianTT — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:44:58 -0600

CHICAGO – There have been some very cool TV on Blu-Ray releases lately that we wanted to make sure you, our loyal readers, knew about, including “Life After People,” “Lie to Me,” and “Sons of Anarchy”.

One of the best home entertainment developments of 2009 has been the emergence of more television on Blu-Ray. Take for example this edition of the Blu-Ray Round-Up, which features a History Channel program, a FOX drama, and an action-driven FX series about to start its second season.

All three releases are part of a new wave of TV on Blu-Ray and whatever may be said about the quality of the actual programs, it’s encouraging to see more studios taking chances on HD releases. Let’s hope they all do soon.

Synopsis, cast information, technical details, and special features information follows. Pick up one. Support the movement.

“Sons of Anarchy: Season One” was released on August 18th, 2009.

“Lie to Me: Season One” was released on August 25th, 2009.

“Life After People” will be released on September 1st, 2009.

“Sons of Anarchy: Season One”

Photo credit: Fox

Synopsis: “From an executive producer of “The Shield” comes a gripping drama that takes you into the ruthless underworld of outlaw bikers. The Sons of Anarchy live, ride and die for brotherhood. But as the club’s leader (Ron Perlman) and his wife (Katey Sagal) steer them in an increasingly lawless direction, her son Jax (Charlie Hunnam) is torn between loyalty and the legacy in this adrenaline-charged first season.”

“Sons of Anarchy: Season One” stars Charlie Hunnam, Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal, Theo Rossi, Maggie Siff, Johnny Lewis, Tommy Flanagan, and Kim Coates. It was created by Kurt Sutter. It is presented in High Definition 1080p with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and includes an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. The 13-episode season runs 594 minutes.

Special features include audio commentary on selected episodes, “The Making of Sons of Anarchy: Season 1,” “Casting Sons of Anarchy,” “The Ink,” “The Bikes,” deleted scenes, and “Anarchy on the Set”.

“Lie to Me: Season One”

Photo credit: Fox

Synopsis: “In this powerful and engaging new drama from Imagine Television, the producers of 24, Tim Roth stars as Dr. Cal Lightman, a deception expert whose uncanny ability to read facial expressions and body language makes him a virtual human polygraph. Joined by psychologist Dr. Gillian Foster, Lightman tackles compelling cases of sabotage, scandal and murder, always uncovering the one thing that matters most - the truth.”

“Lie to Me: Season One” stars Tim Roth, Kelli Williams, Brendan Hines, and Monica Raymund. It was created by Samuel Baum. It is presented in High Definition 1080p with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and includes an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. The 13-episode season runs 572 minutes.

Special features include deleted scenes and an exclusive featurette called “The Truth About Lies”.

“Life After People”

Photo credit: BBC/WB

Synopsis: “If humans were to suddenly disappear, what would happen to our planet - the structures we’ve built, the everyday items we take for granted, domesticated and wild animals, plants, trees? What would become of the things that define our species and leave our mark on this Earth?

Visit the ghostly villages surrounding Chernobyl (abandoned by humans after the 1986 nuclear disaster), travel to remote islands off the coast of Maine to search for abandoned towns that have vanished from view in only a few decades, then head beneath the streets of New York to see how subway tunnels may become watery canals.

HISTORY takes you on an amazing visual journey in Life After People, a thought-provoking adventure that combines movie-quality visual effects with insights from experts in the fields of engineering, botany, ecology, biology, geology, climatology, and archaeology to demonstrate how the very landscape of our plant will change in our absence.”

“Life After People” is presented in High Definition with its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio and includes only an English 2.0 Stereo track. It runs 94 minutes

Special features include additional scenes.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray Round Up, Aug. 12, 2009: ‘The Last Starfighter,’ ‘Sling Blade,’ ‘The Waterboy’

BrianTT — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:31:13 -0600

CHICAGO – You won’t find the kind of diversity that exists in HollywoodChicago.com’s Blu-Ray Round-Up too many places online. Where else can modern sci-fi mingle with quarter-century-old genre product and hang out with Oscar winners and slapstick comedies? Nowhere.

The Round-Up is our regular informational column about titles that may have slipped under your radar just because they haven’t been on the cover of Entertainment Weekly or in the point-of-purchase slot at your local Blu-Ray store. Today’s edition of the Round-Up is particularly impressive with a massive comedy hit from Adam Sandler, a sci-fi cult classic, a great new TV show, and the film that made Billy Bob Thornton a star.

“Doctor Who: Planet of the Dead” was released on July 28th, 2009.

“Sling Blade,” and “The Waterboy” were released on August 4th, 2009.

“The Last Starfighter” will be released on August 18th, 2009.

“Doctor Who: Planet of the Dead”

Photo credit: BBC/WB

Synopsis: “When a London bus travels through a worm-hole to an alien world, the Doctor must join forces with the mysterious, aristocratic Lady Christina to help the unfortunate passengers, and themselves, get back home. But the mysterious planet holds terrifying secrets, hidden in the sand. And time is running out, as the deadly swarm gets closer…”

“Doctor Who: Planet of the Dead” stars David Tennant, Michelle Ryan, Lee Evans, Noma Dumezweni, Adam James, and Glenn Doherty. It was written by Russell T. Davies & Gareth Roberts and directed by James Strong. It is presented in High Definition 1080i with a 16:9 enhanced picture and includes a DTS HD audio track. It is not rated.

Special features include “Extra: Doctor Who Confidential,” a 60-minute special that brings you behind the scenes of “Planet of the Dead.

“The Last Starfighter: 25th Anniversary Edition”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “Greetings, Starfighter! You have been recruited by the Star League to defend the frontier against Xur and the Kodan Armada.” So begins an adventure of galactic proportions in The Last Starfighter. After Earthling Alex (Lance Guest) conquers the Starfighter video game, he is recruited by alien Centauri (Robert Preston) to be part of an elite legion of fighters. Leaving behind his trailer park home for the outer regions of space, Alex becomes the last hope for the beleaguered Star League and hundreds of worlds – including Earth. Loaded with out-of-this-world bonus features and digitally remastered for optimum picture quality, The Last Starfighter 25th Anniversary Edition is the ultimate video game fantasy come true!”

“The Last Starfighter” stars Lance Guest, Dan O’Herlihy, Catherine Mary Stewart, and Robert Preston. It was written by Jonathan Betuel and directed by Nick Castle. It is presented in 1080p High-Definition Widescreen with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. It is rated PG.

Special features include “Heroes of the Screen,” an all-new retrospective documentary with the cast and crew as they revisit the scripting, casting, and ground-breaking computer effects, “Crossing the Frontier: Making of The Last Starfighter,” image gallery, and a feature commentary with director Nick Castle and production designer Ron Cobb.

“Sling Blade”

Photo credit: Buena Vista Home Video

Synopsis: “25 years after committing an unthinkable crime, a quiet man named Karl (Billy Bob Thornton) finally returns home. Once there, he’s befriended by a fatherless boy and his mother. But when his newfound peace is shattered by the mother’s abusive boyfriend (Grammy winner Dwight Yoakam), Karl is suddenly placed on a collision course with his past! Also starring Robert Duvall, John Ritter, and J.T. Walsh, this emotional powerhouse is an unforgettable experience for the eyes and ears as well as the heart. Feel the stirring power of Sling Blade as never before in Blu-Ray High Definition.”

“Sling Blade” stars Billy Bob Thornton, Dwight Yoakam, J.T. Walsh, John Ritter, Lucas Black, Natalie Canerday, and Robert Duvall. It was written and directed by Billy Bob Thornton. It is presented in 1080p High-Definition with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. It is rated R.

Special features include Audio Commentary by Writer/Director/Actor Billy Bob Thornton, “Mr. Thornton Goes To Hollywood,” “Bravo Profiles: Billy Bob Thornton,” “A Roundtable Discussion with Billy Bob Thornton, Dwight Yoakam, Mickey Jones, and Producer David Bushell,” “A Conversation with Billy Bob Thornton and Robert Duvall,” “A Conversation with Robert Duvall,” “A Conversation with Billy Bob Thornton and Composer Daniel Lanois,” “The Return of Karl,” “On the Set: Billy Bob at Work,” “On the Set: Doyle’s Band: The Johnsons,” “On the Set: Doyle Gets Pummeled,” and “Doyle’s Dead” with Introduction by Billy Bob Thornton.

“The Waterboy”

Photo credit: Buena Vista Home Video

Synopsis: “Bobby Boucher (Sandler) never wanted anything more than to quench the thirst of the dehydrated athletes who treat him like dirt! But when Coach Klein (Henry Winkler – Holes, TV’s “Happy Days”) makes the call that allows Bobby to finally stand up for himself, it unleashes a torrent of bottled-up frustration and exposes a talent for tackling that transforms him from a meek “water distribution engineer” to the hardest hitter ever to roam the gridiron! The Waterboy is a crowd pleasing favorite featuring an all-star supporting cast that includes acclaimed actress Kathy Bates (About Schmidt, Titanic, Misery), zany comic actor Rob Schneider (Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, The Hot Chick) and the sexy Fairuza Balk (Almost Famous, Return To Oz). This
July, quench your thirst for riotous comedy as The Waterboy makes a refreshing new splash on Blu-ray Hi-Def!”

“The Waterboy” stars Adam Sandler, Kathy Bates, Fairuza Balk, Jerry Reed, and Henry Winkler. It was written by Tim Herlihy & Adam Sandler and directed by Frank Coraci. It is presented in 1080p High Definition with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. It is rated PG-13.

The Blu-Ray for “The Waterboy” includes not one special feature. Shameful.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray Round Up, July 22, 2009: ‘12 Monkeys,’ ‘The Unborn’

BrianTT — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 07:54:09 -0600

CHICAGO – It has been a very busy July at HollywoodChicago.com and a few high profile titles have slipped through the cracks of our Blu-Ray coverage. We can’t leave any HD stone unturned, so we wanted to play catch-up and make sure you know about these releases via the legendary Blu-Ray Round-Up column. Horror movies, comedies, and a modern sci-fi classic from Terry Gilliam - there’s something for everyone in July’s Blu-Ray selection.

“Grumpy Old Men” and “The Unborn” were released on July 7th, 2009.

“The Haunting in Connecticutt” was released on July 14th, 2009.

“I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry” was released on July 21st, 2009.

“12 Monkeys” will be released on July 28th, 2009.

“12 Monkeys”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “Cole (Bruce Willis) is sent back in time to save the human race from a deadly virus that has forced mankind into dank underground communities in the future. Along his travels, he encounters a psychiatrist (Madeleine Stowe) and a mental patient, brilliantly portrayed by Brad Pitt, who may hold the key to the mysterious rogue group, the Army of the 12 Monkeys, thought to be responsible for unleashing the killer disease. Believing he can obtain a pure virus sample in order to find a cure in the future, he is met with one riddle after another that puts him in a race with time. This sci-fi masterpiece from the genius mind of Terry Gilliam is a modern-day classic.”

“12 Monkeys” stars Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt, and Christopher Plummer. It was written by David Peoples & Janet Peoples and directed by Terry Gilliam. It is rated R. The film is presented with a 1080P High-Defintion Widescreen 1.85:1 transfer with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include a feature commentary with director Terry Gilliam and producer Charles Roven, “The Hamster Factor & Other Tales of 12 Monkeys,” and “12 Monkeys Archives”.

“Grumpy Old Men”

Photo credit: WB

Synopsis: “Two elderly, eccentric, next-door neighbors sustain a rancorous relationship that only a wise observer could recognize as a very special friendship. When a lonely, flamboyant, middle-aged widow moves in across the street from them, the male rivalry begins.”

“Grumpy Old Men” stars Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, Kevin Pollak, Ossie Davis, and Daryl Hannah. It was written by Mark Steven Johnson and directed by Donald Petrie. The film is presented with a 1080P High-Defintion Widescreen 1.85:1 transfer with an English Dolby TrueHD 2.0 track.

The only special feature included is the theatrical trailer.

“The Haunting in Connecticutt”

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Synopsis: “When the Campbell family moves to upstate Connecticut, they soon learn that their charming Victorian home has a disturbing history: not only was the house formerly a funeral parlor where inconceivable acts occurred, but the owner’s clairvoyant son Jonah served as a demonic messenger, providing a gateway for spiritual entities to crossover. Now, unspeakable terror awaits when Jonah, the boy who communicated with the dead, returns to unleash a new kind of horror on the innocent and unsuspecting family.”

“The Haunting in Connecticutt” stars Virginia Madsen, Kyle Gallner, Martin Donovan, Amanda Crew, and Elias Koteas. It was written by Adam Simon & Tim Metcalfe and directed by Peter Cornwell. It is rated PG-13 and unrated. The film is presented with a 1080P High-Defintion Widescreen 2.35:1 transfer with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track.

Special features include the audio commentaries with director, producer, cast and crew on the unrated version, “Two Dead Boys: The Making of The Haunting in Connecticutt,” “The Fear is Real: Reinvestigating the Haunting,” “Anatomy of a Haunting,” “Memento Mori: The History of Postmortem Photography,” deleted scenes with optional commentary by director Peter Cornwell, and the theatrical trailer.

“I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis:”Adam Sandler and Kevin James star as best friends and fellow firefighters Chuck and Larry, the pride of their Brooklyn fire station. Chuck owes Larry for saving his life. Larry calls in that favor big-time by asking Chuck to pose as his “domestic partner” so his kids will get his pension. But when a fact-checking bureaucrat becomes suspicious, the two straight guys are forced to improvise as love-struck newlyweds. Jessica Biel, Ving Rhames and Dan Aykroyd co-star in this hilarious comedy.”

“I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry” stars Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Jessica Biel, Ving Rhames, Steve Buscemi, and Dan Akyroyd. It was written by Barry Fanard and Alexander Payne & Jim Taylor and directed by Dennis Dugan. It is rated PG-13. The film is presented with a 1080P High-Defintion Widescreen 1.85:1 transfer with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include U-Control functionality, a feature commentary with director Dennis Dugan, Adam Sandler and Kevin James, and a feature commentary with director Dennis Dugan.

“The Unborn”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “Enter a world of unrelenting evil as terror finds a new form in The Unborn. From the producers of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and the co-writer of The Dark Knight comes this shocking supernatural thriller about a young woman (Odette Yustman) plagued by chilling dreams and tortured by a demonic ghost that haunts her waking hours. Her only hope to break the debilitating paranormal curse is in an exorcism with spiritual advisor Sendak (Gary Oldman). See what lies beyond the doorway of our world in this non-stop nightmare of the undead…”

“The Unborn” stars Odette Yustman, Gary Oldman, Meagan Good, Cam Gigandet, James Remar, Jane Alexander, and Idris Elba. It was written and directed by David S. Goyer. It is rated PG-13 and unrated. The film is presented with a 1080P High-Defintion Widescreen 2.40:1 transfer with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include deleted scenes in hi-def and BD-Live access.

Check out our full-length theatrical review of “The Unborn”.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray, DVD Round Up, July 3, 2009: ‘Madea Goes to Jail,’ ‘Spaceballs’

BrianTT — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 06:00:00 -0600

CHICAGO – The Round-Up is back to provide our loyal readers with synopsis and feature details on a few titles that may have slipped on to DVD or Blu-Ray under your radar but might make the right purchase choice this holiday weekend.

It’s not that these title are any “lesser” than some of the biggies out there (one nearly made $100 million domestically and another is a Mel Brooks classic), but we can’t get around to a full-length review of everything that comes into the HollywoodChicago.com office and we want to keep you as informed as possible.

“Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail” and “Spaceballs” were released on June 16th, 2009.

“The Education of Charlie Banks,” “Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season Two,” and “White Sox Memories” were released on June 30th, 2009.

“The Education of Charlie Banks”

Photo credit: Anchor Bay

Synopsis: “Charlie Banks’ (Jesse Eisenberg) sheltered world at his Ivy League campus is shaken up when Mick (Jason Ritter), an old acquaintance with a violent past, unexpectedly shows up. Intrigued by Charlie’s privileged lifestyle, the charismatic Mick quickly wins over Charlie’s friends and his crush, Mary (Eva Amurri) as he seamlessly integrates himself into Charlie’s life. Unnerved, yet also in awe of Mick’s easy charm, Charlie’s unresolved feelings of jealousy, admiration and fear - as well as an unspoken secret between the two - threatens to come to a head with ruinous consequences. Marking Fred Durst’s directorial debut, this “evocative coming-of-age story” (Simi Horowitz, Back Stage), also stars Christopher Marquette and Sebastian Stan.”

“The Education of Charlie Banks” stars Jesse Eisenberg, Jason Ritter, Christopher Marquette, Eva Amurri, Sebastian Stan, and Gloria Votsis. It was written by Peter Elkoff and directed by Fred Durst. It is rated R. The film is presented in anamorphic widescreen with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by a Dolby Surround 5.1 track.

Special features include an audio commentary with Director Fred Durst and Actor Jason Ritter, and “Conversations Behind The Education of Charlie Banks”.

“Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season Two”

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Synopsis: “It’s her business doing pleasure with you. The second season of “Secret Diary of a Call Girl,” Showtime’s hit original series based on the real-life adventures of a high-class escort, debuts on DVD from Lionsgate. This witty and provocative show follows the dangerously sexy exploits of “Belle” (real name Hannah Baxter), a 27-year-old graduate living in London, who has worked for the last few years as one of the city’s premiere escorts. She’s an independent, young woman who loves her job. And in season 2 its business as usual for Belle, until her personal life gets in the way. See what happens when a girl who loves for a living, starts living for love.”

“Secret Diary of a Call Girl” stars Billie Piper, Iddo Goldberg, Ashley Madekwe, and Callum Blue. It was created by Lucy Prebble. It is not rated. The show is presented in 16x9 anamorphic widescreen with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and accompanied by an English 5.1 track.

Special features include “Billie on Billie” Interview With Billie Piper and Webisodes.

“Spaceballs” (Blu-Ray)

Photo credit: MGM

Synopsis: “The farce is with you in this “uproarious salute to science fiction” (The Hollywood Reporter) that teams comedy legend Mel Brooks with an all-star cast of cutups including John Candy (Splash), Rick Moranis (Ghostbusters) and Bill Pullman (Ruthless People)! When the evil Dark Helmet (Moranis) attempts to steal all the air from planet Druidia, a determined Druish Princess (Daphne Zuniga), a clueless rogue (Pullman) and a half-man/half-dog creature who’s his own best friend (Candy) set out to stop him! But with the forces of darkness closing in on them at ludicrous speed, they’ll need the help of a wise imp named Yogurt (Brooks) and the mystical power of “The Schwartz” to bring peaceand merchandising rightsto the entire galaxy!”

“Spaceballs” stars Bill Pullman, Daphne Zuniga, Dick Van Patten, George Wyner, and Joan Rivers. The film was written by Mel Brooks & Thomas Meehan & Ronny Graham and directed by Brooks. It is rated PG. The film is presented in 1080p and accompanied by an English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track.

Special features on “Spaceballs” include Commentary by Mel Brooks, Additional Commentary Tracks: Mawgese & Dinkese, Spaceballs: The Documentary featurette, In Conversation: Mel Brooks & Thomas Meehan featurette, John Candy: Comic Spirit featurette, Watch the Movie in Ludicrous Speed featurette, Still Galleries, Trailers, Film Flubs, Storyboards-to-Film Comparison, and a DVD version of the film.

“Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail”

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Synopsis: “After a high-speed freeway chase puts Madea in front of the judge, her reprieve is short-lived as anger management issues get the best of her and land her in jail. A gleeful Joe couldn’t be happier at Madea’s misfortune. But Madea’s eccentric family members, the Browns, rally behind her, lending their special “country” brand of support. Meanwhile, Assistant District Attorney Joshua Hardaway is on the fast track to career success. He lands a case too personal to handle, defending young prostitute and former drug addict Candace Washington, and asks his fiancée and fellow Assistant District Attorney Linda Holmes to fill in on his behalf. When Candace ends up in jail, Madea befriends the young woman, protecting her in a “motherly” way as only Madea can.”

“Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail” stars Tyler Perry, Derek Luke, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Ion Overman, RonReaco Lee, Sofia Vergara, Vanessa Ferlito, and Viola Davis. The film was written and directed by Tyler Perry. It is rated PG-13. The film is presented in 16x9 anamorphic widescreen with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and is accompanied by a Dolby Digital Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include “Madea is Back,” “Leroy Law Brown,” “Looking for the Big House,” “You Have the Right to Remain Silent!,” “Bringing in the Heavy Hitters,” and “Madea’s Crazy”.

“White Sox Memories: The Greatest Moments in Chicago White Sox History”

Photo credit: Shout Factory

Synopsis: “The south side of Chicago has hosted countless baseball stories and performances for more than a century. It has also been the home for many iconic Windy City ballplayers who ultimately landed in Cooperstown in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Along the way, the team known as the White Sox has entertained its fans with a litany of memorable moments and ballplayers. In White Sox Memories: The Greatest Moments in Chicago White Sox History, the unforgettable and iconic mesh seamlessly to create the definitive story of what has made the White Sox franchise so magnetic.

From the very beginnings of the American League, pennant winners, Hall of Famers and indelible characters have made baseball on the South Side unforgettable. From the Hitless Wonders to the Go-Go Sox to the masterful collection of men who played Ozzie-ball and brought a World Series title back to Chicago in 2005, there have been numerous and incredible tales of triumph. In White Sox Memories: The Greatest Moments in Chicago White Sox History, these stories and the tales of the men who wrote them come alive once again.”

“White Sox Memories” is presented in 16:9 widescreen. Bonus footage includes “Postseason Clinchers,” “9th Inning of No-Hitters,” “Jim Thome Milestone,” “Frank Thomas Hometown Hero,” “Tom Paciorek Official MLB Handbook,” “Nancy Faust on TWIB,” and “2009 Sox Spring Training Wireless”.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Blu-Ray, DVD Round Up, June 16, 2009: ‘Crossing Over,’ ‘Woodstock,’ ‘The Cell 2’

BrianTT — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 07:00:00 -0600

CHICAGO – It’s time to dig a little deeper at HollywoodChicago.com and pull out a standard and HD edition of the Round-Up, our regular column that gives you the synopsis, features, and technical details on several titles that we either couldn’t get around to full-length reviewing or we didn’t think deserved the time.

“Crossing Over” and “Woodstock: 40th Anniversary Edition” were released on June 9th, 2009.

“The Cell 2” and “Nature’s Most Amazing Events” were released on June 16th, 2009.

“The Cell 2” (Blu-Ray)

Photo credit: WB

Synopsis: “Imagine a serial killer who flatlines his victims and then brings them back to life over and over again, until they beg to die. Beautiful psychic investigator Maya Casteneda (Tessie Santiago) was his last victim and swore vengeance on her tormentor before she escaped. Now The Cusp is back, and the FBI taps Maya to help capture the elusive monster. Maya soon discovers the only way she can locate The Cusp is to enter his head. The danger: if Maya dies in the killers brain, she dies in real life! Like the trailblazing original, The Cell 2 is a mind-blowing mix of fantasy and reality that enters a place of fear and power like no other: the thoughts of a psychopath. Chris Bruno (The Dead Zone), Frank Whaley (World Trade Center) and Bart Johnson (High School Musical) co-star.”

“The Cell 2” stars Tessie Santiago, Chris Bruno, and Frank Whaley. It is rated R. The film is presented in 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.85:1 and accompanied by a Dolby TrueHD English 5.1 audio track.

Special features on “The Cell 2” include “The Cell 2: Behind the Scenes”…and additional features via BD Live.

“Crossing Over”

Photo credit: The Weinstein Company

Synopsis: “Harrison Ford is on a quest for justice as an immigration agent investigating the case of a missing illegal. In a cross-fire of crime and bureaucracy, fraud and murder, he must race against time to try and save a family from becoming collateral damage in the fight for the American dream. Critics rave, “Harrison Ford is terrific. An engrossing, thoroughly entertaining movie with great performances from a first-rate ensemble cast” (Pete Hammond, Hollywood.com). Co-starring Ashley Judd, Ray Liotta, Jim Sturgess, and Cliff Curtis, Crossing Over will keep you riveted until the final mystery unfolds.”

“Crossing Over” stars Harrison Ford, Ray Liotta, Ashley Judd, Jim Sturgess, Cliff Curtis, Alice Brage, and Alice Eve. It was written and directed by Wayne Kramer. It is rated R. The film is presented in widescreen accompanied by an English 5.1 track.

Special features include…nothing. A Harrison Ford film released only on standard edition without a single special features? We keep opinion out of the “Round-Up,” but the presentation of “Crossing Over” says something about the film. If the studio is ignoring it, why shouldn’t you?

“Woodstock: 40th Anniversary Edition”

Photo credit: WB

Synopsis: “1969 was a year unlike any other. Man first set foot on the moon. The New York Mets won the World Series against all odds. And for three days in the rural town of Bethel, New York, half a million people experienced the single most defining moment of their generation; a concert unprecedented in scope and influence, a coming together of people from all walks of life with a single common goal: Peace and music. They called it Woodstock. One year later, a landmark Oscar®-winning documentary captured the essence of the music, the electricity of the performances, and the experience of those who lived it. Newly remastered, the film features legendary performances by 17 best selling artists.’

“Woodstock” stars Joan Baez, Canned Heat, Joe Cocker & The Grease Band, Country Joe McDonald & Country Joe & The Fish, Crosby, Stills, & Nash, Arlo Guthrie, Richie Havens, Jimi Hendrix, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, Santana, John Sebastian, Sha Na Na, Sly & The Family Stone, Ten Years After, and The Who. The Academy Award-winning documentary is presented in widescreen with a Dolby Surround 5.1 English audio track.

Special features on “Woodstock: 40th Anniversary Edition” include a new retrospective called “The Museum at Bethel Woods; The Story of the Sixties & Woodstock”.

“Nature’s Most Amazing Events” (Blu-Ray)

Photo credit: WB/BBC

Synopsis: “Witness the planet’s most breathtaking natural events, and follow the dramatic wildlife stories behind them. Combining the epic cinematography of Planet Earth, with all the emotion, intimacy and storytelling of a wildlife diary, this series charts the effects of global climatic phenomena which transform entire landscapes, drawing in thousands of animals and determining their fate. Each episode is set in a different part of the world - from the great flood of the Okavango delta to the plankton blooms of the Pacific Ocean, and from the Indian monsoon to the race for survival triggered by the annual Arctic melt - and shows how immense natural forces, often starting thousands of miles away, drive a chain reaction that culminates in a spectacular wildlife event. For some animals, it’s a window of opportunity, but for others, it’s the most dangerous time of their lives. Follow their emotional, involving stories to a dramatic climax where their fate will be revealed.”

“Nature’s Most Amazing Events” is presented in gorgeous High Definition with a 1080i picture and an English Stereo audio track.

Special features on “Nature’s Most Amazing Events” include a behind-the-scenes feature on each episode called “Nature’s Most Amazing Events Diaries”.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com

Father’s Day Blu-Ray Round Up, May 26, 2009: ‘Fletch,’ ‘Field of Dreams,’ ‘Seabiscuit’

BrianTT — Tue, 26 May 2009 14:54:17 -0600

CHICAGO – Universal Home Video is releasing a wave of titles timed for Father’s Day gifts. Some of their choices - “Field of Dreams,” “Fletch” - seem like logical picks for a better HD daddy day than another striped tie while others seem chosen purely because they have the word “Men” or “Man” in the title - “Children of Men,” “Cinderella Man,” “Inside Man”.

Most are pretty good and some are great. Pick your favorite and give it to your Blu-Ray pop.

“Inside Man” will be released on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009.

The other five titles were released on Tuesday, May 26th, 2009.

“Children of Men”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “No children. No future. No hope. In the year 2027, eighteen years since the last baby was born, Clive Owen portrays an unlikely champion of the human race when he is asked by his former love, played by Julianne Moore to escort a young pregnant woman out of the country as quickly as possible. In a thrilling race against time, Theo will risk everything to deliver the miracle the whole world has been waiting for.”

“Children of Men” stars Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Charlie Hunnam. The film was written by Alfonso Cuaron & Timothy J. Sexton and David Arata and Mark Fergus & Hawk Ostby and directed by Alfonso Cuaron. It is rated R.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Deleted Scenes; Visual Effects - Creating the Baby; Futuristic Design; Theo & Julian; Under Attack; The Possibility of Hope; Children of Men Comments by Slavoj Zizek.

HD features include U-Control Picture-in-Picture, “Info & Commercials,” and BD-Live.

“Cinderella Man”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “Russell Crowe and Renee Zellweger star in this triumphant, powerfully inspiring true story. In a time when America needed a champion, an unlikely hero would arise, proving how hard a man would fight to win a second chance for his family and for himself. Suddenly thrust into the national spotlight, boxer Jim Braddock (Crowe) would defy the odds against him and stun the world with one of the greatest comebacks in history. Driven by love for his family, he willed an impossible dream to come true.”

“Cinderella Man” stars Russell Crowe, Renee Zellweger, Paul Giamatti, Craig Bierko, Bruce McGill, and Paddy Considine. The film was written by Cliff Hollingsworth and Akiva Goldsman and directed by Ron Howard. It is rated PG-13.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Feature Commentary with Director Ron Howard; Feature Commentary with Writer Akiva Goldsman; Feature Commentary with Writer Cliff Hollingsworth; Deleted Scenes; The Fight Card - Casting Cinderella Man; For the Record - A History in Boxing; Ringside Seats; Jim Braddock - The Friends & Family Behind the Legend; Pre-Fight Preparations; Lights, Camera, Action - The Fight From Every Angle; Braddock vs. Baer Fight Footage, Photo Montage; The Sound of the Bell; Cinderella Man Music Featurette; The Human Face of Depression; Russell Crowe’s Personal Journey - Becoming Jim Braddock.

HD features include BD-Live.

“Field of Dreams”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: ““If you build it, he will come.” With these words, Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) is inspired by a voice he can’t ignore to pursue a dream he can hardly believe. Also starring Ray Liotta, James Earl Jones, and Amy Madigan, Field of Dreams is an extraordinary and unforgettable experience that has moved critics and audiences like no other film of its generation.”

“Field of Dreams” stars Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta, and Burt Lancaster. It was written and directed by Phil Alden Robinson and is rated PG.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Deleted Scenes with Introductions by Phil Alden Robinson; From Father to Son - Passing Along the Pastime; Roundtable with Kevin Costner, Bret Saberhagen, George Brett and Johnny Bench; The Diamond in the Husks; Galena, IL
Pinch Hits for Chishol, MN; Field of Dreams - A Scrapbook; Bravo Special - From Page to Screen; Theatrical Trailer; Feature Commentary with Director Phil Alden Robinson and Director of Photography John Lindley.

HD features include BD-Live.

“Fletch”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “Chevy Chase is at his hilarious best as Irwin “Fletch” Fletcher, a newspaper reporter who changes his identity more often than his underwear. While working on a drug expose, he stumbles onto a scam that gets him up to his byline in murder, police corruption, and forbidden romance. For this ace newsman, it’ll be the story of the year, if can only stay alive till the deadline.”

“Fletch” stars Chevy Chase, Joe Don Baker, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Richard Libertini, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Tim Matheson. It was written by Andrew Bergman and directed by Michael Ritchie. It is rated PG.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Just Charge It To The Underhills: Making and Remembering Fletch; From John Cocktoastin To Harry S. Truman: The Disguises; Favorite Fletch Moments; Theatrical Trailer.

HD features include BD-Live.

“Inside Man”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster star in this intense and explosive crime thriller. The perfect bank robbery quickly spirals into an unstable and deadly game of cat-and-mouse between a criminal mastermind (Owen), a determined detective (Washington), and a power broker with a hidden agenda (Foster). As the minutes tick by and the situation becomes increasingly tense, one wrong move could mean disaster for any one of them.”

“Inside Man” stars Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster, Christopher Plummer, Willem Dafoe, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. It was written by Russell Gewirtz and directed by Spike Lee. It is rated R.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Feature Commentary with Director Spike Lee; Deleted Scenes; The Making of Inside Man; Number 4.

HD features include BD-Live.

“Seabiscuit”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “A great American story from Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker Gary Ross, starring Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, and Chris Cooper. Seabiscuit is based on the inspiring true story of three men – a jockey, a trainer, and a businessman – and the
undersized racehorse who took the entire nation on the ride of a lifetime.”

“Seabiscuit” stars Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, Chris Cooper, Elizabeth Banks, Gary Stevens, and William H. Macy. It was written and directed by Gary Ross. It is rated PG-13.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Bringing the Legend to Life: The Making of Seabiscuit; Anatomy of a Movie Moment; Seabiscuit - Racing Through History; Photo Finish - Jeff Bridges’ On the Set Photographs; Seabiscuit vs. War Admiral, The 1983 Match Race; Winner’s
Circle - The Heroes Behind the Legend; The True Story of Seabiscuit; HBO First Look; Feature Commentary with Director Gary Ross and Filmmaker Steven Soderbergh.

HD features include BD-Live.

“Spy Game”

Photo credit: Universal

Synopsis: “When a top-secret, unauthorized mission goes awry, Brad Pitt as CIA agent Tom Bishop is captured – and sentenced to die. With just 24 hours to get him out alive, Bishop’s boss, played by Robert Redford must battle enemies abroad and the system inside the CIA to save his friend. Now the clock is ticking and the race is on.”

“Spy Game” stars Robert Redford, Brad Pitt, Catherine McCormack, Stephen Dillane, Larry Bryggman. It was written by Michael Frost Beckner and David Arata and directed by Tony Scott. It is rated R.

The Blu-Ray video is presented in 1080p High Definition with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.

Special features include Feature Commentary with Director Tony Scott; Feature Commentary with Producers Mark Abraham & Douglas Wick; Deleted Scenes with Optional Director’s Commentary; Alternate Versions of Existing Scenes with Optional Director’s Commentary; Clandestine OPS; Script-To-Storyboard Process Featuring the Director.

HD features include BD-Live.

By BRIAN TALLERICO
Content Director
HollywoodChicago.com
brian@hollywoodchicago.com