Escape From Planet Earth

On the slower side of okay
The beginning of the year is a slow time for the PG regular movie-going crowd. Family-friendly movies are more sparse, and GOOD family movies are a downright rarity. Which has never made much sense to me, since in the cold winter, going to the movies is one of the few (somewhat) affordable things to do with kids. So, we were excited when Escape From Planet Earth came out and we had high hopes that it was going to be a good watch.

It was a nice story about two very different but close brothers who have to learn how to be themselves while also letting the other one shine. Anyone who has more than one kid would probably agree that they watch their own children struggle with this quite often, so I liked the message behind the movie.

The other positives:
the animation is great (but nothing we haven't seen), it's colorful, appropriate for young kids, and has a few laughable scenes sparringly scattered throughout.

The not-so positives:
It's...

Funny Movie, Good Moral, Slow Moving
This movie was fun to go watch, albeit a little slow starting out. Being a geek myself, I enjoyed watching a movie where the geeky engineer is the protagonist, gets (already has) the girl, and saves the day. Escape from Planet Earth is a pretty predictable movie, but what would you expect from a children's movie. I enjoyed the fact that almost every alien stereotype and conspiracy theory is addressed as the source of comedy in the movie (i.e. - the road signs stating that Gary Supernova was entering and leaving area 48, 49, and 50 before "entering" area 51). Although a movie made for children, Escape from Planet Earth is a good movie for the young at heart as well. It seems like not many family movies now days actually contain an entire family, but this movie does. It also focuses on the tight-knit cohesiveness of the family unit and brings to the surface the fact that we would do almost anything for family.

The reason I rate it 4 stars is that, as I stated before, it is...

Not bad, not bad at all
I didnt expect much and I was surprised. It's worth a watch. Funny and heartwarming with a good message about the nees for others to have your back.

Click to Editorial Reviews

ISMAC 2009: 10th Anniversary DVD

Good stuff
I bought this dvd for Dwight mclamore ... I am a big fan . Some really good basic stuff I really enjoyed this DVD





Click to Editorial Reviews

Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom - Complete Series [Blu-ray]

Weapons the Arcs
This anime series covers 26 episodes and presents itself through 3 main arcs with some lapses of time occurring between the arcs. The series is a spy action thriller with a deep story that will keep you engaged in this world of mystery and discovery. Twists and turns in a world where the main character is on a quest of identity, self, love, strength, and just about a dozen other things. All the characters feel real and it was just a series that I really enjoyed. I tend to refer to this anime as the modern setting of the anime Claymore. There is not connection between those two anime but I feel like the are on par quality wise but this series isn't as mystical and is better off in the area of plot. Also, I'm not sure what the other reviewer had mention about this being the first season of two. As far as I know this is the only season and it is worth buying. If there is another season let me know!

I will be buying this without a doubt, an amazing anime not to mention having...

Possibly 2011's best action anime series
Anytime you put assassins, treachery, angst and possible romance in a storyline and DO THEM ALL EQUALLY WELL, you've got yourself a winner my friend! I bought this series as soon as it dropped and I absolutely loved it. I already bought the Phantom OVA that was released years ago with just a few episodes and this is basically a better re-telling of that story.

I NEVER compare anime to manga from 2 different series- (#1 it's not the same art form #2 you shouldn't compare moving art to still art). Another reviewer compared Phantom to a title that was released 15-20 years ago, criticizing this series. Comparing one title's anime to another title's MANGA is just plain bad reviewing.

This anime falls in the same category (I guess) as Noir, Madlax etc., but those can't hold a candle to this series. It has way better production quality. It was masterfully animated, excellent English dub, kick-ass action and plenty of likeable characters. The musical score made my...

This is one that will stick with you! An amazing series.
It took me a couple of episodes to get into this series, and it's not one I'll soon forget. It has some of the most memorable - and tragic - figures in Anime. No giant robots or wizards, demons or aliens. This is the story of professional assassins, brainwashed and brutally trained into their profession. We stare with Einz and Zwei, then later add Drei. All three are high-school aged kids, and all are the best at their profession. This is realistic, sometimes heart-wrenching, usually action-packed animation. It's similar to Ghost in the Shell in it's look and feel, only set in modern times with modern weapons. Mob bosses using specially trained assassins to keep other mob families in line. We have unrequited love, brutal assassinations (some are pretty shocking), world-class animation and voice actors, and is one of the best I have seen in ages.

The ending - the real ending - is in the final credits, and it's a shocker. Is it open ended? Not really, but I suppose a...

Click to Editorial Reviews

The History of Future Folk

Great movie for date night or family night
The premise of the movie, about aliens who come to earth, hear music for the first time and spare the Earth because of it sounded very much to my taste. It's charming and sweet, without being awful. I was very entertained, and I'll probably buy the movie, because I can watch this one again. The costumes are low budget, but enjoyable and kind of classy kitch. I particularly enjoyed the fight scene cut with the tango scene. A lot to like. So apparently, irl these guys have been dressing up in spacesuits and playing music together at least since 2007. That's a story I'd like to hear more about! The music was surprisingly good, and the songs were very fun. Watch it, you won't be disappointed.

Campy, but tremendous fun
I have had an interest in watching this film since the trailer came out. I'm too cheap to spend the money to watch every film in a theater, but at $0.99 rental, it seemed like time to jump in. I was pleasantly surprised that the story avoided offensive elements while telling a simple tale. The music is really fun. Sure, it doesn't have all the slick production values of some of the more popular fare, but it was a nice, simple story which I would be willing to watch as a family. I would watch this again.

Flight of the Concords meets B movie sci fi
My boyfriend and I loved this movie! It is so much fun, and the songs will get stuck in your head. The best way we could come up with to describe it is if Flight of the Concords decided to make a sci fi movie. So if you enjoy either of those things, give this a shot!

Click to Editorial Reviews

Terror on a Train

Title Misleads
I purchased this picture because I was lead to believe by the cover and description and title that it would take place aboard a train. It doesn't. In fact, it doesn't concern passenger trains at all.

As far as suspense or "terror" goes, it is absent as well! I found it very plodding, predictable and not at all suspenseful. It would have been much better had it concerned threatened passengers aboard a train with time running out. Time was an element here, but by itself, it isn't enough.

I wouldn't call it a "noir" either. That term is so often used to describe pictures that are merely crime dramas or mysteries.

So, overall, I didn't find it very well-written or very interesting.
By the way, if you are looking for good train pictures, try "Narrow Margin" from the '50s, "The Lady Vanishes" from the '30s, "Brief Encounter", "Berlin Express" and 'Murder is my Beat".





Click to Editorial Reviews

In Vogue: The Editor's Eye

Fashion Movie
A fabulous movie should be watched by everyone in the fashion industry - a great collection piece to go back to.

The best fashion documentary of the decade!!!
Anna Wintour is a powerhouse, we know that, she's the queen of the fashion industry. I loved her style and vision for US Vogue right from the start, then came the movie/documentary "The September issue", that showed the whole world what it really takes to create the perfect fashion magazine and its most important issue. With this DVD, it's a whole new game: the editors, their visions, how they prepare for their shoots, their personalities, the secrets behind some of the most renowned photos in Fashion. Just AMAZING!!! I've been addicted to this DVD and saw it more than 10 times already, I'm not kidding: the music, the editing, the voices, their inspirational talks, everything. GREAT FILM!

for real "fashionista"
I've already watched this a few times and I find it an extremely fun and intelligent and beautifully
produced look behind the scenes at "Vogue." Highly recommend for any self-proclaimed "fashionista."

Click to Editorial Reviews

Hypno Puppy Love / Driving Mrs. Wolfe

wow
How can anybody be so cool as Filbert! He and Heifer's first meeting was priceless. I thought I was going to bust when he was counting those chips.

One of my favorites! (Future Schlock...)
I love Rocko's Modern Life, and Future Schlock is one of my favorites. What can I say? If you're considering buying Rocko, you already know what a great cartoon it is.

And check out the College Humor video entitled "40 Dirtiest Jokes from Rocko's Modern Life." Google it!



Click to Editorial Reviews

White Frog

Best movie I've seen in a long time
Everything about this movie is great. The plot is beautifully constructed, the acting is excellent, the pacing is good, there is a powerful theme, and the story has lots of heart. Give it a few minutes to get going. The opening scenes set the stage for what follows and don't reveal the incredible impact the movie ends up delivering. And yes, the title is fitting but not in a way you're likely to guess. This is one of the few films I'll never forget. Very highly recommended.

Addresses several issues confronting todays young people
I think this is a great movie that addresses Asperger's Syndrome, religion/GLTB issues, as well as the impact of losing someone very close. These are issues that many face daily.

The performance of BooBoo Stewart alone is worth the time to view it. Tyler Posey gives a great performance as well.

Fine Film, Memorable performances
When I read a short synopsis of this movie, I was intrigued. Asperger's Syndrome has become more prevalent in recent years, and seeing it portrayed on film, particularly by someone who does not suffer from it, was quite fascinating and (in this case) well done.

I was actually surprised at how well a Twilight-saga-veteran could act; BooBoo Stewart is endearing as Nick, a young man with Asperger's dealing with the stress of both dealing with his brother (Chaz)'s death and discovering his brother's secret life. BD Wong plays the difficult but necessary role of the frustrated and grieving parent with a harsh believability, and the motley crew of Chaz's friends who take Nick in after their friend's death provide good drama and much needed comic relief. Harry Shum Jr., as Chaz himself, is stunning.

Overall, this is a strong, heartwarming film that dares to question the ideas of normal and perfect in today's society.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Chuckerfly/Angelica's Twin

Great show for kids!
My son loves this show and I remember watching it with my nephews when it first aired! Still a classic more than a decade later.





Click to Editorial Reviews

Charlie Zone [HD]

MUCH BETTER THAN EXPECTED
THIS MOVIE IS VERY GOOD. VERY WELL WRITTEN AND WITH A MULTI-FACETED PLOT. GOOD ACTING WITH VERY LIKEABLE MAIN CHARACTER. REALY DID NOT KNOW WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. DON'T WANT TO GIVE AWAY ANY OF THE MANY SURPRISES SO YOU WILL JUST HAVE TO WATCH THIS MOVIE.

Gritty Masterpiece!
Realistic look at a dark corner of Canada wrapped in a compelling story with a shocking twist.

Amanda Crew shines as the fallen angel seeking justice. We definitely need to see more of Ms. Crew in mainstream cinema.

Highly recommended!!!

i liked it
i liked the movie, i watch so many movies, i find it cheaper than going to the movies, and for the price you would pay for one month. you can see alot of movies, esp staying up on the lastest

Click to Editorial Reviews

Wilfred: The Complete Series

Great Series
I saw a couple of these on IFC and always wanted to see all the episodes. I was not disappointed. The original Australian Wilfred was excellent series and establishes a baseline that the US series for quality. I found myself wanting more.

So funny
It's so refreshing to see a comedy that is uninhibited, intelligent and so much fun. This is so much better than your run of the mill sit-com. A real treat. It is definately not for kids though.

Refreshing
Though both the Australian original and American FX remake share the same title and character they are vastly different. Where America needs a heap of filler characters, exposition and tamer jokes the original shines in brevity with straightforward, dry humor. It's a must watch for any fan of the remake, yet stands far enough apart from it that anyone with a darker sense of humor can enjoy it even more.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Miami Vice / Inside Man Double Feature [Blu-ray]

Good double-feature
I really bought this more for the movie Inside Man as I thought that was a really good movie - How can you go wrong with Jodie Foster, Denzel Washington and Clive Owen? - Miami Vice was okay, not one of my favorites but two for $10?? Hard to pass up. Transfer was good and was happy I bought it!!

Excellent movies for a right price
This two movies were great thriller/action movies and for the low price that amazon offers you, it is worth to buy it and add it to your collection.
This product would be perfect if it had come with a slipcover



Click to Editorial Reviews

Chasing Ice [HD]

Astonishing visuals... MUST-SEE documentary
In 2007 James Balog started a multi-year initiative called "Extre Ice Survey" (or EIS), targeting glaciers in Iceland, Greenland and Alaska where he placed about two dozen cameras to document what is happening to glaciers around the world. Director Jeff Orlowski and his team tagged along and the results of this were captured in a documentary called "Chasing Ice". It played very briefly here in SW Ohio a few months back and I missed it but I finally had a chance to see it last month at the West End Cinema in Washington DC.

"Chasing Ice" (2012 release; 76 min.) feels like a National Geogprahic special, and this is not a surprise (nor a complaint) in that James Balog started a pre-EIS project in partnership with National Geographic. Once it became clear to Balog that this could be something very special, the project was expanded into what would become the EIS. This movie was shot over a period of almost 4 years, and the patience with which this movie came about really pays...

the cinematography, the music, and the message
We just saw this at our local film festival. While it should be seen on a big screen with great sound, if you like real stories with purpose and beauty, do not miss this one. We own fewer than 10 DVDs. This is one worth owning. This is the history of our time.

Amazing Images
We saw this film last night as part of the Honor Student program at New Mexico State University. As a photographer with over 30 years experience, I would so love to have an opportunity to go to these places and shoot some of these images for myself. The visual splendor is nothing short of amazing for both the time-lapse and the live video, and it's well worth seeing just for the visuals.

For climate change skeptics, there are two excellent points in the film. The first is that the photographer himself, James Balog, was skeptical. He trained in geology and didn't see how man-made changes could affect the huge machine that the planet is. He changed his mind. The second is a Canadian Yukon glacier scientist. They've been studying glaciers in the Yukon for something on the order of 150 years. He admits that four glaciers have actually grown over the last 50 years, but half of the remaining have disappeared entirely and the other half have shrunk.

But if this...

Click to Editorial Reviews

Tower Heist (Blu-ray + Digital Copy + UltraViolet)

Fun, fast, and clever!
Just got back from a sneak preview of this film, and it was a blast!

The story revolves around the employees and residents of an exclusive, high-rise New York tower. When one of the residents, a wealthy Wall Street tycoon (played brilliantly by Alan Alda), is arrested for embezzling, the employees learn that they have lost their pensions and savings, all of which were given over as "investments." Several of them hatch a scheme to recoup their losses, and then everything goes haywire.

The cast is terrific. Ben Stiller plays the understated, very likeable building manager. Eddie Murphy is the funniest he's been in years as Slide, a small time criminal the employees turn to for help. The rest of the cast is very strong, including Matthew Broderick, Casey Affleck, Gabourey Sidibe, and more.

Everyone is in fine form, and director Brett Ratner finds the balance of fun and thrills he's been missing since at least Rush Hour 2.

There are twists...

WHAT AN ENSEMBLE CAST MOVIE SHOULD BE
How can you go wrong with a movie that has a central premise in which Derek Zoolander, Ferris Bueller, Axel Foley and Precious rob Hawkeye from M*A*S*H*? Honestly, you can't. "Tower Heist" is what a movie with an ensemble cast is supposed to be. It is constantly interesting, always moving with twists and turns, a great script and laughs throughout that don't insult your intelligence.

"Tower Heist" is about a group of employees that maintain, run and devote their lives to a collection of upper-crust socialites in a downtown Manhattan high-rise residence. At the top of this high-rise is Arthur Shaw (Alan Alda) who lives a life of spoil and wealth. Shaw can quite simply be compared to the likes of Bernie Madoff, which is another reason why this movie may hit home with some, and is most definitely a lot of the inspiration for the movie's plot. So when Shaw is exposed for milking people of their life savings and retirement funds, the employees of the Tower's lives come crashing...

Funny and exciting.
A Bernie Madoff- like character at a swanky New York high-rise is accused of losing or swindling the life savings of the staff. A few of them hatch a scheme to steal $20m that he is suspected of hiding. Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller bring their considerable talents to this action-comedy, making it both funny and exciting. The film combines clever comedy with some intense action sequences to bring the audience to the edge of their seats while laughing at the same time. This one was well-done.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Rawhide: The Sixth Season - Volume Two

great fan of Eric Fleming
Love all of Rawhide, just wish they would realize Eric Fleming was THE star of the show. He died early in his career so everyone thinks Clint Eastwood was the star, but he wasn't. Will buy Season seven, but not season eight.

Strong Season Six Last Half
Continuing the mostly solid sixth season, these 15 episodes feature excellent performances by the series regulars as well as the guest stars. CBS and show producers learned quickly in the first season never to allow the guest stars to overshadow the regulars and here all work in concert for satisfying results. Though mostly town-bound, Episode 15 in volume one featured Paul Brinegar as trail drive cook George Washington (Wish) Wishbone in a humorous shotgun-wedding in the making tale. Episode 16 in this volume again features Wish, but this time it is a deadly serious and intriguing tale in which we learn more of the character's background. It also shows the deep bond the drovers have developed over their long odyssey. The only real letdown is the season finale which features Robert Cabal as the superstitious remuda wrangler Hey-Soos and guest star James Gregory as a saint-sinner trying to persuade a strange Indian tribe he led them astray. Side-note: According to author David R...

Outstanding Production
My wife and I love Rawhide with the great stories, guest stars and the stars themselves. It does not get any better than this.

Click to Editorial Reviews

A Token of His Extreme

Frank certainly would have approved of this this great release- BONUSES Too!
For those who are wondering if the evasive "A Token of His Existance" television special that Zappa produced in 1974 - and was never aired in the US - is really coming out on DVd, I can attest to the fact that it is! With bonuses to boot! As a music journalist I got my copy this week and it will be released tomorrow! Between Eagle Rock Entertainment - which has been releasing some great DVDs at reasonable prices - and the Zappa Family Estate (led by FZ's widow Gail) - this is a class production and a must for FZ fans.

The 73 minute "concert" program was transferred from the Original 2" Quad Video Master in 2009 and looks and sounds great. The 11 songs are performed by FZ and the Mothers with George Duke on keyboards (and finger cymbals) and Ruth Underwood (percussion) and Chester Thompson (drums) providing the beat with Tom Fowler on bass and Napoleon Murphy Brock on sax and vocals. Performed in front of a live audience, a few of the numbers feature wonderful stop-action...

Excellent Zappa footage, headache inducing editing
This DVD is essentially an extended version of my favorite segment in Dub Room Special: Room Service, Florentine Pogen, Napolean Murphy Brock riding his small tiny hoss during Montana... if you're reading this review, you know this stuff is gold. This is Zappa's greatest assemblage of musicians playing some highly experimental music. It's a must own for any Zappa fan.

But, that doesn't mean it's perfect. This DVD has several lengthy stretches of video editing that hinders an otherwise beautiful audio-visual Zappa document. Most frustrating is the strobe effects used in countless sections of the concert footage in which the camera rapidly switches between various members of the band. It occurs so fast, it's impossible to see exactly what ANYONE is doing. So rather than taking in the performance and visualizing what is being played, the viewer is left to make sense of the headache inducing slideshow. It's a relief when one of these segments end.

The decision to use...

Frank Zappa A Token of His Extreme
I personally consider Frank the greatest composer of 20th century and possibly the best guitar player of all time /Jimi's fans should not be offended!/. Excellent DVD, considering the age, audio and video are very good and to me it's a pure pleasure to see as much as possible of Frank's legacy. Buy it and you're in for a treat!

Click to Editorial Reviews

Clint Eastwood: 20 Film Collection [Blu-ray]

Eastwood Collection: Some Good Films, Poor Disc Packaging
PART 1: THE FILMS

I will start by asserting that I think Clint Eastwood is one of the great actors in the history of film, and in the 1990s/early 2000s he had a nice run as director as well. I am a big fan of his career and admire him as a filmmaker.

Looking at the list of films included, I will say there's really no logic or particular theme to this box set. It's just a mix of films that Mr. Eastwood was involved in - sometimes he's the actor, other times he's the director. There are a large number of his great works included, but there are some glaring omissions as well.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:
- In total, there are 20 feature films included in this collection. Although for those who want to see Eastwood on the screen, it's worth noting that he only appears in 15 of those films.
- All of his prestigious award winners are included here: "Unforgiven", "Mystic River, "Million Dollar Baby", etc.
- Since this is the latest of many Eastwood box...

A solid, but imperfect collection of Eastwood movies
"Clint Eastwood 20 Film Collection" is a 22-disc Blu-ray set containing films both starring and directed by Eastwood. It's a more affordable, if abbreviated, version of the massive 40-film DVD collection tribute released in 2010. The 20 pictures in the set represent both early and later Eastwood.

Eastwood began a relationship with Warner Bros. in 1975 with the signing of a long-term agreement. His Malpaso Productions moved onto the studio's Burbank lot and he eventually went on to win four Oscars and ten nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director Academy Awards for "Unforgiven" (1993) and "Million Dollar Baby" (2005). He has also received five Golden Globes and numerous critics association and Lifetime Achievemnt awards.

Standouts in the collection are "Dirty Harry," "The Gauntlet," "Firefox," and "The Outlaw Josey Wales." These roles illustrate the silent, no-nonsense, tough characters Eastwood specialized in before taking on roles as cantankerous...

Clint Eastwood Gets Insane 22-Disc Blu-ray Collection
There are 20 Clint Eastwood films in this collection along with 2 documentaries [the 90-minute Eastwood Factor Documentary (2010) and the 65-minute Eastwood Directs: The Untold Story Documentary (2013)]. Fans should know there aren't any spaghetti Westerns in this collection. The films are in order of their theatrical debut (the two bonus discs round out the collection). The picture and audio quality vary but overall it is average. Most but not all the films get at least 30 minutes of bonus content. A 48 page excerpt from Clint Eastwood: Master Filmmaker at Work is also included.

The 20 films: A Perfect World, Dirty Harry, Every Which Way But Loose, Firefox, Gran Torino, Heartbreak Ridge, Hereafter, Invictus, J. Edgar, Letters from Iwo Jima, Magnum Force, Million Dollar Baby, Mystic River, Pale Rider, Space Cowboys, Sudden Impact, The Gauntlet, The Outlaw Josey Wales, Trouble with the Curve, Unforgiven

There is another Clint Eastwood Collection on Blu-ray with 4...

Click to Editorial Reviews

Combat!: The Complete Third Season

Combat!
The Combat dvd's are excellent! I love watching the series my dad(no longer with) & I use to watch in the 60's. I highly recomend. The only problem is the choice of shipping they use. Fedex Smartpost is the worst. It arrived more than a week after est. delivery date because it went to 2 wrong post offices. Guess i was lucky to get it because they (fedex smartpost)have lost other items completely, never to be delivered.

Compat
Sometimes the video skips or goes dark. I wash it with soap, seems to help some. Annoying! Love Combat though.

How can you not like this show?
Brings back great memories of watching this as a kid. Loved the characters and the drama. The characters drive this series. We all know the war was hard on men. This series gave us an appreciation of what that generation went through.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Mosquita Y Mari

This film is fantastic.
As a queer Latina, I eagerly awaited the release of this film. It did not disappoint. This female-directed feature is beautiful and had me in tears by the end. So many Hollywood films and television shows reduce Latin@s to stereotypes; this, on the other hand, did everything right. It felt true and was both sweet and sad, while never becoming sentimental. One note for people who don't speak Spanish, though, is that some of the dialogue is in Spanish, so you'll have to deal with subtitles. (The only reason that I mention this is that I know that some people don't like subtitles, though, personally, I don't think that's enough of a reason to miss this gem.) All in all, I cannot praise this enough.

Perfect
From the very beginning, this film held my attention. Every note was perfect, the writing, the story, the directing, the acting. An honest story told beautifully. The dialogue was well done, but it was almost unnecessary, so great is the director at evoking emotion through simple images. Few films with lesbian main characters reach this level. It's no wonder the director, Aurora Guerrero, was named one of the "25 New Faces of Independent Film." I'm looking forward to her next film.

Powerful Presentation of Teenage Angst and Romance
The writing, directing, and acting on this film are stellar. It's hard to believe that this is the director's first feature film. Development of each character was captivating and the storylines flowed smoothly. Although the personalities of Mari and Mosquita were diverse, it was easy to identify with their individual plight. This is one of those movies that had me replaying scenes in my head (including the creative ending) long after the credits rolled. The behind-the-scenes clips in the DVD were informative and highlighted the cast and crew's synergy. Highly recommended for all teens and adults.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Detour [HD]

Do you have...
...what it takes to survive?

Wow! DETOUR will force you to not only take stock in your life, but to take stock in what you've got readily available in your car. Because what may seem like a bizarre circumstance could in fact happen to anyone driving in a mountain region. I swear my shoulders are still a little too close to my ears after viewing this film! I had to keep reminding myself "you're not in the car with Jackson."

Speaking of Jackson, leading man Neil Hopkins provides a tour de force performance as he battles the force that is mother nature.

And don't be surprised, if like me, you jump back into your Amazon account & order a few "supplies" for your car.

A DEFINITE RECOMMEND (DETOUR & the supplies!)

Very good acting... but kind of boring and predictable.
The lead actor (or only actor, really) who I never heard of did a fantastic job and persuaded me to stick it out to the end.

The problem for me is that the entire movie takes place inside of a jeep grand cherokee and I really needed some more in the way of sets and scenery.

I don't think it was a bad ending and I don't feel like it left the viewer hanging but throughout the whole movie you will be yelling at the guy telling him to do what he ultimately does after an hour and 25 minutes.

All in all, it didn't have enough blood, violence, horror or suspense for me.

Detour review
It was ok, but didn't care for the ending. Interesting story of survivial. It is watchable, could have had more of an ending, left the viewer hanging.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Identity Thief - Unrated Edition [HD]

Has its moments
Identity Thief is a movie about a mild-mannered businessman Sandy Patterson (Bateman) who travels from Denver to Miami to confront the deceptively harmless-looking woman (McCarthy) who has been living it up after stealing Sandy's identity.

This movie is definitely not the funniest I have ever seen but it does have its moments that will make you laugh although sometimes straying into the area of bad taste. At times the jokes miss more than make you laugh and sometimes makes you cringe but Identity Thief does soften up at the end and comes across as being a somewhat sweet comedy in the end despite some of the cringe worthy jokes.

I will give McCarthy credit as she does about anything to get a laugh even with physical comedy and she is not afraid to ham it up for the camera.

This movie is definitely not in the league of some of the funnier movies I have seen (like Hangover or 40 year old virgin) but isn't bad and will keep you entertained. I did expect...

A funny, enjoyable movie thanks to leads
If you enjoyed Jason Batemen as the put-upon, sane family member/lead in the short-lived TV series Arrested Development, you will probably enjoy him here. If you enjoyed Melissa McCarthy's in Bridesmaids, you will find many more moments of genius lunacy.

My one fear was that the trailer had all the funny set pieces, but not by a long shot. The movie was funnier.

This is a movie in the Hollywood tradition of road trips from hell on a deadline. (Think Rat Race or Trains, Planes and Automobiles.) I also found the revelations about her background made the outcome more satisfying. I'm happily in the 'it's a darn funny movie' camp.

I suspect other reviewers who hated it will mark this 'unhelpful,' but that just goes to show you. Take those negatives with grain of salt. I believe you will enjoy it, if you enjoyed the movie trailer of it.

Funniest Movie I've Ever Seen
I think the biggest problem with movie goers these days is they all expect this amazing life changing movie whenever they go to see a movie. But this is not what I look for when I go see a movie I just go to have fun and get away from real life for a little bit and that's what this movie did for me. This movie is honestly the funniest movie I have ever seen I was laughing throughout the whole movie and it wasn't like I was waiting bored for the next laugh because it kept me interested and satisfied in between the laughs. The movie even had a little heart in it with Melissa McCarthy's character and she developed throughout the movie and became someone that was respectable even though she is stealing people's identities left and right. I honestly loved this movie so much and people can say all they want about it I thought it was perfectly scripted, super funny, and a little touching. I would recommend this to honestly every person I know.

Click to Editorial Reviews

2+2

A Saucy Argentinean Sex Romp That Isn't Nearly As Open-Minded As it Seems
I really enjoy films that aren't afraid to embrace sexuality as an adult topic. In America, we still seem to have so many hang-ups about sex in the movies, the ratings board and parental groups fixate on these issues as opposed to graphic violence and vicious torture. It's a strange double standard, to be sure, because everyone will partake in sexual acts and experience nudity in their regular lives. Few (I hope) will dig someone's eye out with an ice pick and make them eat it. That said (and getting back on topic), I was excited to check out the Argentinean romp "2 + 2." This comedy focuses on two couples as they embark on a new sexual experience that involves swinging. Despite the topic, however, the movie remains relatively chaste in presentation. This is more about the idea of what happens than anything graphic. In fact, there is no actual nudity at all, just suggestive scenes where all the naughty bits remain covered. "2 + 2" is lightweight and amusing overall, but somewhat more...

Really funny!
A very funny movie about a theme that's taboo. Hollywood is to close minded to make movies like this. Highly recommended.

Fun movie
If you are not familiar with Argentinian or Uruguayan slang and idiosyncrasy you will miss a lot of this movie. The subtitles don't do justice to the little things in the movie but is a fun ,well acted play

Click to Editorial Reviews

6 Dead Souls [HD]

CAVEAT EMPTOR!!! - This is nothing more than a repackaging of Circle (2010)
Again, we are subject to film distribution companies and others attempting to repackage old stuff as new and breathe new life into an older film.

This film is nothing more than a re-packaging of the film Circle (2010) also available here on Amazon, for quite a bit less. Buy that and enjoy the film.

This is a pretty good film, and Silas Weir Mitchell does not disappoint as a genius psychopath.

I am sure Indican Pictures re-released this hoping to cash in in Silas Weir Mitchell's fame from Grimm. He's a great actor, but this sort of stuff is disingenuous without full and fair disclosure to the public of what they are buying.

A campy B movie that had some potential but.....
Premise: A bunch of sex crazed college students staying in an house as a class project. An escaped nut from a mental institution. A cop that captured him years ago. An FBI agent sent to take over the case. Oh yeah, the house the kids are staying in??????.........guess who use to live there? There is another plot twist but I will not spoil.

Acting: The students, typical young actors more likely hired because they look better nekkid than for their acting ability. The cops are better. The crazy escapee, Silas Weir Mitchell (Monroe from Grimm), plays a silent killer named James Bennet.

Scenery/Background: For a house where noone lives, it is clean, the grounds are well kept and there are even a live potted plant. The windows are clean, no cob webs, etc. Its a nice looking house. The cop station is basically empty rooms with a few desks and computers. It's rare to see any other cops in the station.

Family friendly: Not a family movie. Topless female nudity...

6 dead souls
I bought this movie because I am into that kind of flick. What I got was great acting and a great plot. That is all I am going to say I give nothing away. If you want to know why I give it 5 stars watch it best I can do for you it will shock and amaze

Click to Editorial Reviews

Girl Meets Boy

A Cute Movie That Tries Really Hard
I would have loved to give this more stars. However, it is a very low-budget picture. The acting is passable, but not great (with the exception of Anna Pheil, who gives a stellar performance). The plot is simple. For these reasons, it might normally rate one star, maybe two.
However, this movie has a lot of heart, and it is very genuine. It is, simply, just a sweet movie about two strangers meeting at a cabin, followed by 75 or so minutes of getting to know each other.
Again, not a great movie, but one that is certainly not pretentious, and doesn't try too hard. It also certainly doesn't go "over the top" as so many low budget movies do. It stays real from start to finish.
Another thing I really like about this movie is that, as of this writing, there are no other reviews of this movie on this site. It is extremely common for people involved in low-budget movies to create their own "reviews" on this site. All of the cast, crew, and friends of the cast and crew give...

Girl Meets Boy
We really enjoyed the movie. It will never win awards, but we found it very entertaining. Anna Pheil is not only cute, but she is very natural and believable. Hope we see more of her.

good movie
Fun movie to watch, for an independent move on a low budget the writer, director and actors did a great job. Liked the original title much better (Peace and Riot)

Click to Editorial Reviews

Timewave 2013

Incredible Sequel to 2012 The Odyssey
I thoroughly enjoyed 2012 The Odyssey as it gave me great insight into what is happening on the planet and hope for the future. So I was really looking forward to it's sequel, Timewave 2013. With Hollywood films, rarely does a sequel measure up to the original but this one is even better than 2012 The Odyssey. With the growing intensity of the issues that are facing us, there is a precience about the film that is compelling.

Filmmaker Sharron Rose continues her journey into the mythos of 2012 and the future of humanity. Having met the Q'ero shaman/healers of Peru in the first film, she travels to the Sacred Valley of Peru to sit in a profound healing ceremony with them. This ceremony called a despacho, performed to release negativity and send out prayers, forms the though-line of the film.

As is 2012 the Odyssey, the film has many strong interviews with the experts. This time, in addition to many experts from the cast of 2012 The Odyssey, she brings in the wisdom...

Thinking Past 2012
In this video, Sharron Rose quietly and confidently guides the viewer through a vast field of conjecture regarding the year 2012 and beyond. Following her heart and curiosity to Peru, Sharron enters the realm of the Incas, where cultural purity exists from pre-Columbian history to today. While there, she participates in a shamanic ceremony where small items representing the trappings of modern life are burned and the pure essence of creation is invited to bless and nurture not only the shamans performing the ritual, but all of humanity.

Interspersed throughout this ceremony are cut-away clips of interviews with a literal Who's-Who list of 2012 mystics and scholars who have spent much time pondering the end of the Mayan calendar. John Major Jenkins, Daniel Pinchbeck, Gregg Braden, Whitley Strieber are all here offering their personal observances of what may be in store for our species as we near the end of "time as we know it."

There is much to digest in this...

Excellent Documentary
Having enjoyed 2012 The Odyssey, I was eagerly looking forward to this sequel. What a timely film! For anyone who is concerned with the deeper spiritual and social implications of the very tangible realties confronting us such as global warming, the economic meltdown, peak oil etc, this is the film to watch. The interviews, which are juxtiposed against an ancient Shamanic ceremony held in the Sacred Valley of Peru are excellent. I was also pleased to see the continuation of the Founding Fathers theme in the section on Benjamin Franklin. I highly recommend this film for anyone who wants to gain a new perspective on the challenges confronting us at this moment in history.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Live at Billy Bob's Texas

Excellent Music Video
I'm a little biased because my son is the lead guitarist on the video. But the production of this video was well done and it is a good representation of what one will witness when he sees the Charlie Robison Band live.





Click to Editorial Reviews

Cheerleader Ninjas

Classic lovable crap.
There's really not much to say about this movie other than it's incredibly stupid yet wildly funny at the same time. It doesn't take itself seriously, it knows it's a low-budget piece, and as a fan of film I'm more than OK with that. Extra points since I'm a nerd and the nerd-related humor really speaks to me.

Yuck
The other night, I watched Cheerleader Ninjas. Now, don't think I ever considered the possibility this could be a good movie. No, I knew it would be bad, but I was hoping it would fit into the so-bad-it's-good category.

It doesn't.

Instead, it fits squarely into the it's-so-bad-it's-awful category.

Cheerleader Ninjas is a story about a flamingly-gay teacher at a Catholic reform school who wants to get revenge on a cheerleader troupe in a nearby high school. It would seem he was refused admittance to their team. So he gets a group of reformed Catholic prostitutes to beat the crap out of the cheerleaders. The cheerleaders retaliate by getting martial arts training and reluctantly join forces with the local nerds. Terrible fight scenes, gratuitous nudity, and a giant robot/dildo battle ensue.

The only thing this movie has going for it are the boobs, and that just doesn't float my boat. There are better movies out there with boobies, and it's frightening to think that Corey Haim...

Get this for drinking time.
Great B movie with lots of T&A and more shown. Watch it while drinking for mindless entertainment. Low budget means better movies in many cases and this is no exception. No high tech special effects or well rehearsed dialogue here. Recommend as long as you are not easily offended by adult themes. Do not let the kids watch. The title says it all, "Cheerleader Ninjas".

Click to Editorial Reviews

Silent House (Blu-ray + Digital Copy + UltraViolet)

Excellent direction and acting by Elizabeth Olsen make this movie a winner!!
I saw this movie last night on pay per view in my hotel and I only watched it based on the merits of young Elizabeth Olsen, after being very impressed by her fine performance in "Martha, Marcy, May, Marlene". Quite frankly I didn't know what to expect and my expectations were not that high. I've seen lots of indie horror movies that try real hard but end up falling short on the chills, often resorting to haggard, old plot devices to try and scare the audience. I am not easily scared and the vast majority of horror movies coming out today, fail, time and time again to scare me to any great extent.

Such was NOT the case with "Silent House". This movie pulls you in from the opening frames with Elizabeth Olsen sitting on a rock by the ocean. Miss Olsen is classically beautiful and is proving herself to be a very talented actor. As she is drawn into the big, dark, sinister house, there is an overwhelming feeling of dread that permeates this atmospheric little chiller and the...

Silent House US version
I happened to catch the original Uruguayan Silent House just by chance flipping through channels on late night TV. I was captivated. I'm a complete Horror freak, and the movie kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. I LOVED the continuous camera sweep (ala Russian Ark), and the acting was superb. I don't scare easily, and I rarely jump at the typical scares in horror flicks, but this movie got the best of me a few times. After watching it, I immediately logged on to Amazon to order the original Uruguayan movie.

Sure as anything, I soon found out that there was a US remake coming out. As far as I'm concerned, there is very little talent in Hollywood, and it's a common trend to just remake popular movies to cash in on their success. I was very skeptical, but because I loved the original, I decided to give it a try. I was not disappointed.

Elizabeth Olsen is not of the same strain of her twin sisters who have ridden the wave of their childhood...

A scary movie with a twist.
A young woman who is moving out of an old home with her father begins seeing and hearing unexplained things. She is extremely frightened as she runs from whatever or whoever may be lurking. Featuring the highly talented Elizabeth Olsen, this movie is quite scary up until the final minutes when the story takes an unexpected turn. This is when the film loses something, but it does distinguish it as more than just a standard horror film. I found the movie very frightening and unpredictable. Liz Olsen is such a talent, she is able to project true fright throughout, and the film is able to maintain this until the surprising conclusion. Overall, this is a solid effort in the horror genre.

Click to Editorial Reviews

In Vogue: The Editor's Eye [HD]

Fashion Movie
A fabulous movie should be watched by everyone in the fashion industry - a great collection piece to go back to.

The best fashion documentary of the decade!!!
Anna Wintour is a powerhouse, we know that, she's the queen of the fashion industry. I loved her style and vision for US Vogue right from the start, then came the movie/documentary "The September issue", that showed the whole world what it really takes to create the perfect fashion magazine and its most important issue. With this DVD, it's a whole new game: the editors, their visions, how they prepare for their shoots, their personalities, the secrets behind some of the most renowned photos in Fashion. Just AMAZING!!! I've been addicted to this DVD and saw it more than 10 times already, I'm not kidding: the music, the editing, the voices, their inspirational talks, everything. GREAT FILM!

for real "fashionista"
I've already watched this a few times and I find it an extremely fun and intelligent and beautifully
produced look behind the scenes at "Vogue." Highly recommend for any self-proclaimed "fashionista."

Click to Editorial Reviews

A Portrait of James Dean: Joshua Tree, 1951

A SLOW MOVING BUT BRILLIANT FILM.
There is little to fault with this film.It is beautifully photographed mostly in black and white and the acting and directing are exceptionally good.It won't be to everyone's taste as it is indeed slowly paced. It offers a different perspective of James Dean compared with what we have seen before in other films on Dean. Stay with it and you will be rewarded. A must see. Only one extra-a short film about the childhood of Derek Jarman.

for those who who are willing to search a bit
The reviews on this film seem mixed but I tried it and I found it to be haunting and engaging. This is not a linear narrative but a collage of moments and thoughts that form a picture. You have to be willing to wait and listen and search for the meanings. The cinematography is superb. Dean is less an enigma but a person who made his own way, who constantly searched for an anchor. He was not a na

Scum: Remastered Edition [Blu-ray]

Ray Winstone is still the "f***** daddy"!
"Scum" (1979) may now be over 30 years old, but its stunning power, notoriety and shock factor hasn't dwindled! Nor has its wide spread appeal. Films like "Scum" are just simply timeless in their power! This totally harrowing, often stomach-churning drama is a commendably daring (but then again its not really daring when you are merley depicting the truth - no matter how grim or appalling) and unflinching look at life inside a fictious boys juvenile centre (otherwise known as borstal).

Extremely edgy, startlingly powerful and completely shocking, "Scum" depicts brutal violence, racial predujice, homeosexuality and sexual abuse in a way that hits you right between the eyes! Not comfortable, easy viewing by any means - almost like sitting on a barbed wire fence its that painfully real. You could easily forget your watching, what is a superbly made drama, and think you were watching a documentary as it has that in-your-face, astoundingly stark effect! You really will not be...

Classic British prison movie!
This film made in 1979 pulls no punches in its depiction of life in a maximum security British Borstal institution. Set roughly in the 1960s, the main character, Carling, played by Ray Winstone(LOCK STOCK AND TWO SMOKING BARRELS) is sent to maximum security for punching a warden at his previous institution, and soon has to face up to a taste of his own medicine from both prisoners and wardens alike. But when he stands up to the 'daddies'(watch out for Phil Daniels of QUADROPHENIA and BREAKING GLASS fame as one of them!) that run the wing and becomes a leader himself, this only a small part of the story. Regular beatings and frame-ups from the wardens are an everyday occurrance. Racism is rife, the language used would never be allowed in a santised Hollywood production today! The violent scenes are extremely graphic, most notably when Carling confronts the daddy of another wing in the prison. Finally, during gardening duties, there is a brutal rape scene and a very disturbing...

RAW , HEARTBREAKING AND SCARY
I watched the first version of this film, but had to wait a couple of days before I viewed the latter version of two years later. It was THAT strong -- brutal and vile. "Man's inhumanity to man" fits this film perfectly.

Yes, out-of-control youth must be dealt with, but not by inhuman, depraved authoritarians! The administrators of this borstal (reformatory) were all sick, demented sex perverts, who seem to get pleasure out of watching these young men devour one another.

Both versions are brutal, but the remake went even further, especially the greenhouse rape. In the first version, there were two harmless-looking lads who attacked "James". In the sequel, three toughs were the perpetrators. The attact went on for what seemed, several minutes (screen time). For the victim, it probably felt like hours.

Both films are nearly identical with some of the same actors repeating their roles, especially the lead, Ray Winstone, but the actors were so...

Click to Editorial Reviews

The Change-Up (Blu-ray + Digital Copy + UltraViolet)

Best of both worlds
This movie, according to rotten tomatoes and other critics, is supposed to be lousy. In my opinion, this is far from it. It shows the sides of living the opposite lives; living a life of a busy/working man and the life of a down-to-earth/relaxing life. I personally found the movie to be eye-opening. Life's meaning is not to always work but it is also not to always have fun; just need to find the right balance. Great movie with funny moments and also serious and thought-provoking moments. The only negative thing is that they revealed too many of the funny moments in the trailer and left the audience with many predictable scenes. Nevertheless, I will buy the dvd in order to have a physical copy since it is a great movie.

Funniest movie I've seen in a long time
I have no idea why this movie has bad review. It's REALLY hilarious and well-though. The writing is really strong unlike most movies out today. My friend suggested we see this and all 5 people watching this were cracking up. I would definitely rent it. :)

Trite Premise, but a Solid Finish
THE CHANGE-UP is another film by the writers of HANGOVER AND HANGOVER II (Jon Lucas and Scott Moore) and the director of wedding crashers (David Dobkin): that should give a pretty solid clue as the what is in store in this film - potty mouth and gross humor that is so very very popular today! The concept of the story (two disparate characters changing lives in a manner as magical as the fairy tale 'The Three Wishes') is not new and at times it becomes wearing, but the big difference here is that the characters are assigned to two really brilliant comic actors - and so it works in the long run.

Two longtime friends are feeling distance in their relationship: Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) is a womanizing free-spirited life as an actor for commercials and 'lorn movies' (soft porn) who lives in a pigsty of an apartment, grabbing fast food where he can find it, while Dave (Jason Bateman) is a conscientious successful lawyer with a major la firm in Atlanta, and is married to a beautiful...

Click to Editorial Reviews

Brazil [HD]

Gilliam classic remastered worth picking up (this review is for the single disc edition DVD)
Terry Gilliam's classic satire returns to DVD in a spiffed up edition from Criterion. Featuring a high definition anamorphic remaster the picture looks great (and it has been enhanced for 16x9 TVs so it will fill the screen)the sound has been remastered as well. Is it worth picking up again? Absolutely if you're a fan of the film. The single disc edition is basically the same as the first disc in the three disc set--it includes Gilliam's commentary track as part of the package as well as the "Final Cut" version of the film that runs 142 minutes (vs. 131 for the regular DVD release).

The good news is that unlike the previous edition,"Brazil" has been digitally remastered with special attention paid to cleaning up the film so we don't have all the bits of dirt and debris that occasionally marred the original DVD transfer (which was essentially a DVD transfer of the original laserdisc version).

If you purchased the three disc set and want to upgrade you could just...

Quite possibly the reason DVD was invented
Three discs? *Three* discs? That's what you're probably thinking if you're looking at this and *not* a fan of one of the finest films of our time. But this exquisite three-disc treatment is probably the best argument for DVD (and thankfully, for Criterion) that I can give you: Watch these discs, listen to the extensive audio commentary, compare Gilliam's brilliant vision with the Hollywood Studio "Love Conquers All" bastardization, er, sorry, recutting (how many directors would include a admittedly contradictory vision of his film on a DVD set just to *show* how Hollywood can drastically reshape a vision?), watch the documentary...you'll come away from this boxed set experience understanding more about film and directing, and sadly, studio politics, than you'll ever get from reading "Variety" (certainly more than I got from filmmaking college courses!) At the heart of it all, though, the many extras and made-with-care package would add up to nothing if...

Yes, but what about this Criterion box set itself?
There are a million different takes on the actual movie "Brazil," but what I hope to do in this review is actually rate the collection put together by Criterion.

The 3-DVD box set of "Brazil" starts off with the "final final" director's cut of the film, topping out at 142 minutes. (There are eight minutes of footage added to this release.) The film is presented in its original 1.85:1 dimensions. Fact is, the transfer of the movie is so-so.

For all the Criterion hoopla, the print here is flawed. The notes pay tribute to a few digital scratch removers, but I was truly surprised by the amount of garbage in the print (dirt, empty spots, and such) that litter the frames. One of Sam's initial dream flights has considerable gunk inhabiting the lower left corner, and any frame by frame analysis will reveal an endless parade of bits of stuff inhabiting every shot. To be honest, I expected a lot more here and if there is any criticism of this collection, it...

Click to Editorial Reviews

Bratz: Good Vibes

Fun for Tweens
Bratz are back with another new original film that includes four exciting new adventures. Join Jasmin, Cloe, Sasha and Jade as they come together to help others in their exciting new adventures. From lending a sympathetic ear and pitching in to help their school, to performing good deeds for those in need, the Bratz discover that doing the right thing is a great way to feel good about yourself.

There are 4 full length episodes on this DVD including:

The Chronicles of Karma - They learn about selfish motives and the importance of selfless good deeds.
Bratz vs. Brats - People are much more important than making money.
Inner Beauty Queens - Being a good person is better than outward appearances.
A Sporting Chance - It's a good idea to get all the facts before jumping to a conclusion that just may not be true.

***Complimentary product received in exchange for an honest review***

Nice!
My daughter enjoyed watching this dvd. They are 4 episodes inside. My daughter keeps watching this dvd again and again. ^_^.

Great buy for my daughter!!
I purchased this video for my 1 year old daughter who loves the Bratz Moves. She watches them all the time and it keeps her interest. I would say buy these videos if your daughters like the Bratz, you would be sorry at all.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Scent of a Woman / Sea of Love Double Feature [Blu-ray]

Another space saver
These are two of my wife's movies and to have them taking only one space is a plus. Space savers like this is the way to go if you have a larger collection.

Oldie But Goodie
These are 2 great titles for a more than reasonable price. I tried (unsuccessfully) to get them from Netflix but got tired of waiting so I decided to check out just buying them. I'm glad I did!

No words needed!
Amazing performance! If I were the man I was 5 years ago I'd take a flamethrower to this review! Outstanding!!

Click to Editorial Reviews

Live at Wolf Trap

This DVD rocks!
As the Director of this project, I wanted to share how special this DVD is. First it is from a great night for the band. They tore down the sold out house at Wolf Trap, and that is evident in every frame. Technologically, we did a big 10 camera Hi-definition shoot, so the clarity is awesome. There is two hours of music. The legendary Ed Cherney did the audio mixes, so the sound is HOT. In terms of the special features, the DVD is packed. First the band members actually host the menu pages! Then we have a very cool interactive feature. At the beginning of five songs, a small icon of either Tom Johnston or Pat Simmons appears for ten seconds. When you press enter during that time, the video cuts to Tom or Pat explaining the process of writing that song! Also, the special features include a very cool 30 minute interview-profile with the band. There are a couple of fun surprise special features as well. If you like the Doobies, you will love this DVD!

Wolf Trap Live: Best Entertainment Value For Your Money
After watching the Wolf Trap Live DVD for the 14th time, I still can't get enough of it! This concert includes 23 songs and is beautifully mastered in both sound and cinematography. It is without a doubt, the Doobie Brothers' finest performance ever. In one of the special feature interviews, Tom Johnston states, "we practice alot these days." Well, Mr. Johnston, it shows. Every song is played tightly and precisely yet mingled with an easiness and playfulness that can only come from professionals who have honed their craft to perfection. The Doobie Brothers were awesome in the 70's but in my opinion, have only recently reached the pinacle of music success with this DVD. Other 70's bands seem to have declined through the years but, not the Doobies. They have aged like fine wine. Take my advise and beat the winter blues: make this DVD part of your collection as soon as possible. You have no idea what you are missing out on until you experience it.

A HOME RUN
I bought this DVD on a whim.Searching for concert DVD's I came across this-checked the reviews and got an idea of the song listings-thought about it-ordered it.I wasted approx. 1 hour debating the undebatable.I never thought twice about purchasing tickets for a Doobie show when they were in my area before(always a favorite and never the same twice).Any fan of the Doobies (or 70s rock can order this without any second guessing-it is "A MAJOR HOME RUN".Tom and Pat's musicianship are never better.Jeff McFee is a monster on all the instruments he plays.Tiran Porter is missed(original bassist) however, Skylark on bass is more than a replacement-he IS a Doobie.Big John Hartman is also missed(original member on drums)but Keith Knudsen and Michael Hossack are still there and Tight.A percussion and horn section(new Doobies?)is as good as I have heard.As stated earlier the musicianship is never better-so are the harmonies.They will put cold chills down your arm.So you can buy this DVD in...

Click to Editorial Reviews

The Last Ride: A Story of Hank Williams [HD]

Review of Bluray- Fictional film on country music legend. Worth watching if a country fan
I admit that I'm not an expert on Hank Williams though I think I've reviewed every reissue of his music over the last 15 years and I got the soundtrack CD earlier this year. I missed the film when it played in theaters and was anxious to see it on DVD/BD. Overall I liked it, but don't expect "Oscar" winning performances. It was pretty much independently produced in 2010 but didn't get a distributor (Fox) until 2012. And it took till this year (2013) to get to home video.

You'll hear a lot about Hank Williams in the review but not hear his name mentioned in the film - except on the radio. Even the intro refers to "Luke the Drifter", Williams "alter-ego". And the screen says "Based on a true story" at the beginning but in the bonus feature (more on that in a minute) they say that most of it is fiction. I don't think I'm giving anything away ( I hate spoilers too) by saying that "Luke" dies in the back of his Cadillac, and that is true. Whether anyone else was inside is not...

The last week of Hank Williams Sr.
A 19-year-old guy gets a job to drive a 'Mr. Wells' to Virginia. He is told to not let Mr. Wells drink. If Wells arrives drunk the driver does not get paid. Soon enough Wells (played by Henry Thomas of E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]) wants a drink.

This movie reminded me of Collateral with its story of a driver an passenger. All the driver knows is that the passenger is in the music industry. They never say his name. People say they saw him in concert but nobody identifies him. Wells says his name is a traveling name. He also says his name is Luke.

Since there is much driving there are several cars, they are in a 1950's Caddy, it is a character itself. Fred Thompson plays Wells' manager during some phone calls.

When they do not make the show in Virginia they head to Ohio, two times they get fuel...

Wow! What a ride!
The growing relationship between Hank and his driver, Silas was fantastic. The acting was believable, and the story just pulled you along. I have already watched it three times, and I am getting ready for the fourth in a few minutes. Then, I'll probably watch Walk the Line, the The Last Ride again. I HIGHLY recommend this movie for ALL country music fans, fans of the South in the 1950s, and real movie fans. Tim Jackson and Harry Thomason, you've really done it this time. Thanks! More, please!

Click to Editorial Reviews

Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry / Race With The Devil [Blu-ray]

These drive-in classics are back...in a double feature!!
Just gotta say, have been a fan of DIRTY MARY, CRAZY LARRY since seeing it as a kid at the drive-in. In fact, this is the movie that got me to like car chasing movies. But this isn't a movie review, this is the DVD review...and the two movies (split onto two discs-way to go Shout!) look as good as the original DVDs that were released some years ago...in fact, they look a little better in my opinion. Maybe has to do with layers being used, don't know if they are single or dual...but they each look better than the originals. Don't get me wrong, they are no Avatar quality by no means, but for their time and the low budget film stock used, they turned pretty good. And anamorphic widescreen always helps with resolution.
The special features look to be carried over from past transfers and the sound is nothing to write home about...but to get these two Peter Fonda classics in one package for around ten bucks, it's a steal!
Shout! is doing pretty good work on their releases and this...

Oh YEAH!
Dirty Mary/Crazy Larry is an incredible car film, to say the least. Peter Fonda controls himself so well as Larry, the driver, racing, trying to get the hell outta Dodge after robbing a store, and trying to raise money so he can get himself, and his mechanic into NASCAR, and do the good races, like the Indy 500, and others. Mary is his unexpected love interest, who just wont stop pestering him and his mechanic, who try time and again to get rid of her, but just cant. This film is hilarious, exciting, fun, over the top, and just a real good time. Forget the fact that it isn't "art" or whatever, cuz to me, it is, in its own way. It gets its job done, and it knows what it is, and it doesn't apologize for it, and its all real, too. No CGI, no nothing, real cars, real crashes, and real stunts.
Race With The Devil is a very different, yet also incredibly cool movie. You gotta be a fan of seventies/eighties films to really "get" and enjoy these films, now I myself am sixteen, which...

Old Favorites
Blast from the Past, these are goodies from our youth. Bought this for Race with the Devil, then we were bored one rainy afternoon and watched the Mary/Larry movie. Pleasantly surprised by this. NO computer-special effects. Who'd a thunk action movies could have real, live action?

Click to Editorial Reviews

Journey Of The Universe: The Complete Collection

Five Stars are not Enough
Five stars are not enough to express my appreciation for this resource.

Since 1977, I have sought to image, describe and conceptualize in easily understandable ways the evolutionary story of how the world came to be. I tried to do this first for myself, a non-scientist, and for other seekers who also longed to understand. The scientific discoveries of the evolution of the Universe are all encompassing, leaving no dimension of human experience unaffected. The writings of Thomas Berry became totally engaging, but there were so few resources for communicating their power. For decades at Genesis Farm, we literally "cut and pasted" drawings, charts, timelines, rituals, snippets of films, lectures and images in a constant attempt to grasp, understand and share the enormity of what this "new cosmology" was revealing.

At long last, this masterful resource provides the mind and heart with an understandable history of how everything came into being. Through profound and...

Poetic
I love programs like this. I love when documentaries pull you into their power of storytelling.

Although this documentary is powerful and poetic, it seems to wander about aimlessly at times. For instance, it suggests that somehow the Earth itself could be somehow directing its own destiny, suggesting that the Earth has kept a temperature conducive to life, not by coincidence, but by purpose, regulating that temperature against the backdrop of the changes in the sun and the solar system in order to harbor life. They suggest that the Earth itself might be a system that is aware and cognizant of it's destiny, but then quickly leave that premise without elaborating in any way or backing that notion up with empirical evidence.

That is an interesting suggestion. And you would think that there would be some reason that it was presented, but no. It just quickly moves to the next somewhat loosely related topic. There was no common thread here for me, nor anything new. It...



Click to Editorial Reviews

The Thing (2011) (Blu-ray + Digital Copy + UltraViolet)

Many THINGS to consider...
The reviews were very interesting and there are some good points.
I'll start by saying I was only 12 when I saw "John Carpenter's The Thing" in the theater. Obviously it made a huge impression (through slightly closed fingers). I was at that point already a HUGE horror/sci-fi movie fan and even at 12 LOVED the original 1951 "The Thing From Another World". I still love the old B/W movies and it's too bad more people don't appreciate that. With that said movies need to advance...Lord of the Rings, Jurrasic Park...great CGI.

Now if you are a true Fan of JC's version of "The Thing", you will know two main thngs:
1.) This is a pretty faithful version of the short story ALL of them are based on, John W. Campbell, Jr. "Who Goes There?" The original 1951 (although awesome) was not. Keep in mind, JC did a wonderful job giving a nod to the 1951 movie. Not to mention featuring it as the movie the kids are watching in "Halloween".
2.) You will have seen the extensive...

Do you really think thats a good idea??
Thats one of the early lines in the film from Kate, it could also be asked about making a prequel to the much loved '82 classic. Just like in the movie, my answer is "yes I do". Making a film this many years after a classic and trying to make the story before that movie is challenging. When watching The Thing from '82 you had to wonder about the Norwegians and the back story, thats why this film is interesting. I went into the film with an open mind. It surprised me in the amount of detail. They really tried to match this up with the prior film as best they could. With the age gap between the films, I think they did a great job.

Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Kate a paleontologist, brought to Antartica to help in bringing a frozen "thing" out of the ice. She starts out observing and asking questions while Dr. Halvorson conducts his analysis of the specimen. As the story unfolds however, its Kate that uses her head and leads the group. The question throughout the film is-...

Not a "Thing" wrong with this prequel!
My expectations were low and I was BLOWN AWAY! Great prequel, fills in gaps. Quality, cast, story first rate. Others crying about CGI - they would have cried anyway even if they didn't use it. Get a life. Looked fine to me. If you loved the JC 1982 version, you will love this prequel. Remember to stay for the credits - truly awesome tie-in. Something you don't see much these days.

Click to Editorial Reviews

Dora the Explorer: Dora Rocks

a must for dora fans
!!My daughter loves anything Dora related and this one is actually tolerable which is an a+ in my book!!!!! My daughter is 3.

Dora Rocks as Usual!
My little girl loves Dora and honestly my boys (4 and 6) don't mind her either. This DVD features just over an hour of Dora and friends fun. There is the main episode "Dora Rocks!" and then two bonus episodes "Baby Bongo's Big Music Show" and "Little Map." We have the Dora Rocks! doll and my little girl loved seeing Dora rockin' in this episode! Very cute and upbeat. Perfect to get any kid excited and in a good mood!

2 year old loves Dora
My 2 year old loves Dora! Thanks to Dora she's learn a handful of words in Spanish. Great problem solving and language learning video for little girls.

Click to Editorial Reviews

ESPN High School - Rise Up (2011)

Saw it on ESPN.. Loved it!!!
This is an incredible show!! It came on ESPN for four weeks. I watched every episode. Kinda wish they'd have done more though because it was so inspirational. It focuses on runned down, poor high schools who haven't had a major upgrade either ever, or in a REALLY long time. It shows communities coming together to volunteer their services to make the high school facilities better. The schools the focus on, are teams that haven't played on their football field in years because there was a high risk of getting hurt, there were kids getting beat up or were affraid to be outside after dark because there is NO lighting, an entire track team that has NO track to practice on, and they have to practice in the hallway without shoes on. This is a great series! And I hope ESPN creates more!

A++++++++++=





Click to Editorial Reviews

4 Film Favorites: Brad Pitt (The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button, Babel, Troy, Seven)

Good selection of Brad Pitt films
I have actually seen all four of these films before and enjoyed them all, didn't have them in my library (except Troy) so this seemed like a good deal at the right price. There are 4 disks in the folder. By the way if you are a Pitt fan check out his great performance as a crazy in a luny bin as a supporting actor to Bruce Willis in 12 Monkeys.

Love this movie
Not only did I get the Benjamin Button movie, but I got 3 of Brad Pitts other movies as a bonus



Click to Editorial Reviews

12 Rounds 2: Reloaded

RIGHT PLACE RIGHT TIME
Nick Malloy (Randy Orton) is an EMT who hates chick flicks. He receives a phone call and is forced into a 12 round game or else his wife (Cindy Busby) will die. Nick has to follows directions and quickly find and decipher clues. We even get to see the man (Brian Markinson) making the phone calls to him. The question of "why Nick" is answered midway through the film, at which point Nick tries to go after his caller, while the cops go after him.

We have seen similar films as this one, which I thought were superior. Other than Nick being an EMT, this one brings nothing new and exciting. The film is mildly entertaining at best. It might make for an inexpensive rental, but lacks the quality for a second viewing.

Parental Guide: F-bomb, sex, nudity (Chelsey Reist)

Randy Orton in WWE movie
My husband is a huge WWE fan so I picked this one out for him.

We both agreed it was an alright movie just nothing spectacular.

Randy Orton plays EMT Nick Malloy and does an okay job at it. Brian Markinson does a much better job at playing the villain.

For an action movie, there were areas in this one that dragged along, seemed repetitive and boring at times. I was definitely glad that I didn't pay a huge amount to rent this.

Great Movie
This movie was even better than the first one. It has a lot of action and it most definitely will keep you on the edge of your chair.

Click to Editorial Reviews

NFL: Baltimore Ravens: Road to XLVII

THE HAY IS IN THE BARN! RAVENS RULE!
This set includes the 4 games that made up the Playoff Run to Super Bowl 47. Each DVD has one game. These are the complete TV broadcasts without the commercials.

This DVD set is a Ravens fans dream! Watch the UNDERDOG Ravens mow down the Colts, then send the top seeded Broncos to "one and done". Then up to Foxboro to exorcise the demons. And finally, cap it all off with one of the most exciting Super Bowl games ever.

I cannot go 5 stars because we get no additional coverage or special features at all. It's the games only. No coins tosses, no player intros, no halftime analysis, no post game, no locker room, and no press conference out takes. Nothing. It's the games, the whole games and nothing but the games. The video quality (non blue ray) is good but not great.

The Colts, Patriots and San Francisco games are announced by Phil Sims and Jim Nance and the Dever game has Dan Dierdorf and Greg Gumbel at the mike.

As a lifelong Baltimore...

Great picture & sound.. abrupt commercial breaks
The dvds are excellent with one complaint. The games start & end abruptly. No pregame conversations, and no post game comments. Ex, especially after the Denver game. Double OT, yet game ends almost immediately after field goal is made. Very long game, and the comments "One of the gritiest games I'be seen in a long time.". Etc.... It just ends....

Husband loved this
I gave this to my husband and he loved this! It was a great gift! Any Baltimore Ravens fan will love this!

Click to Editorial Reviews

Bubble Guppies: Sunny Days!

Six Fun Episodes from a Great Show!
My girls (ages 3 and 6) love the Bubble Guppies and we have a ton of the episodes on our DVR, including all of the episodes from this DVD. They are always requesting the show. The show is great for its vivid colors and fun songs. It always has a positive message and teaches kids about a variety of things and occupations. You will probably find yourself with the catchy songs stuck in your head. The going outside song is the best.

This DVD contains six great Summer and Vacation Themed episodes. Amazon doesn't always do a good job on their DVD episode listings so here are the episodes that are included on this DVD:
1. The Beach Ball! - Beach episode where Sandy wants to become the Queen of the Beach Ball.
2. The Legend of Pinkfoot - The Guppies go camping and hear a campfire story about the Legendary Pinkfoot!
3. Bring on the Bugs - The kids learn about all kinds of bugs. The "Buggin' Out" song in this one is really cute.
4. The Sizzling Scampinis! - A...

Love Them All!
My granddaughter is completely in love with bubble guppies. They present different situations in the most fun and non-scary way. They did an episode on "fairy tales" where the big bad wolf, jack's giant and the three bears were all nice and helpful. The wicked witch was even handled beautifully. They make learning fun and very educational. Different jobs, situations, terrific moral of "never judge a book by its cover" and sharing are stressed. The music is cute and the dancing is good exercise for her.

Bubble Guppies: Sunny Days
My daughter LOVES the Bubble Guppies. I bought this to keep in the car for long car rides. It has 2 hours of episodes, so it keeps her entertained for a while. Nuf said!

Click to Editorial Reviews