Monday, December 30, 2013

Insidious: Chapter 2 Blu-ray

"Insidious: Chapter 2" creeps its way on to Blu-ray and DVD for horror fans to either take in for the first time or enjoy again. Most people rightfully go into sequels with low expectations. They'll be happy to know that the bar has once again been raised by this thrilling follow-up to the highly successful 2011 haunted house spectacular. Read more

Insidious: Chapter 2 Blu-ray

"Insidious: Chapter 2" creeps its way on to Blu-ray and DVD for horror fans to either take in for the first time or enjoy again. Most people rightfully go into sequels with low expectations. They'll be happy to know that the bar has once again been raised by this thrilling follow-up to the highly successful 2011 haunted house spectacular. Read more

Friday, December 20, 2013

The Lone Ranger Blu-ray

Walt Disney Home Entertainment brings "The Lone Ranger" into your living room on Blu-ray, DVD, and as a Digital Download. This is the perfect opportunity for more people to give it the chance they didn't when it hit theaters. The film is as authentic a western as audiences can get these days. It's an action-packed ride filled with humor and plenty of thrills. Read more

The Lone Ranger Blu-ray

Walt Disney Home Entertainment brings "The Lone Ranger" into your living room on Blu-ray, DVD, and as a Digital Download. This is the perfect opportunity for more people to give it the chance they didn't when it hit theaters. The film is as authentic a western as audiences can get these days. It's an action-packed ride filled with humor and plenty of thrills. Read more

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

I really wanted to have a good experience going into "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. " Ten minutes in, I realized it would not be the entry in the series that would change my opinion of the long-winded and over-stuffed franchise. It's more of the same sweeping scenes of walking, overlong action sequences, and bouts of mind-numbing dialogue that only a literature major or studied fanboy or girl could understand or even care about. Read more

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

I really wanted to have a good experience going into "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. " Ten minutes in, I realized it would not be the entry in the series that would change my opinion of the long-winded and over-stuffed franchise. It's more of the same sweeping scenes of walking, overlong action sequences, and bouts of mind-numbing dialogue that only a literature major or studied fanboy or girl could understand or even care about. Read more

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Trail of Blood DVD

Lionsgate has done nobody a favor by releasing the catatonia-inducing slasher flick "Trail of Blood." Whoever tricked Joe Dante into putting his name on this should be awarded greatly. All we get here is a complete retread of every camping trip-gone-bad movie that's been forced on us since "Friday the 13th" hit theaters in 1980. Read more

Trail of Blood DVD

Lionsgate has done nobody a favor by releasing the catatonia-inducing slasher flick "Trail of Blood." Whoever tricked Joe Dante into putting his name on this should be awarded greatly. All we get here is a complete retread of every camping trip-gone-bad movie that's been forced on us since "Friday the 13th" hit theaters in 1980. Read more

Justice League 3000 Issue #1

DC Comics is often brought under scrutiny by fans who feel the company does anything it can to sell more books. Coming from the viewpoint of both a business person and comic book fan, I can wholeheartedly understand their difficult position. It's their job to deliver, on a monthly basis, challenging and somewhat unique concepts and storylines which will keep people thumbing through the pages of the latest issues featuring their favorite super heroes. DC has successfully done it again with Justice League 3000. Read more

Justice League 3000 Issue #1

DC Comics is often brought under scrutiny by fans who feel the company does anything it can to sell more books. Coming from the viewpoint of both a business person and comic book fan, I can wholeheartedly understand their difficult position. It's their job to deliver, on a monthly basis, challenging and somewhat unique concepts and storylines which will keep people thumbing through the pages of the latest issues featuring their favorite super heroes. DC has successfully done it again with Justice League 3000. Read more

"The Horror Show" Blu-ray Provides Little to Get Excited About

Scream Factory brings fans of the obscure another lost nugget with its Blu-ray release of 1989's "The Horror Show." Although it was marketed outside of the U.S. as a sequel to the "House" movies, it has nothing to do with either of the previous entries in the series. The only thing in common with those two is the movie's production crew and the fact that it's about a house in which supernatural happenings occur. There are a few unintentionally hilarious parts to be found in the film, but overall it's a mess that really comes unraveled in the end. Read more

"The Horror Show" Blu-ray Provides Little to Get Excited About

Scream Factory brings fans of the obscure another lost nugget with its Blu-ray release of 1989's "The Horror Show." Although it was marketed outside of the U.S. as a sequel to the "House" movies, it has nothing to do with either of the previous entries in the series. The only thing in common with those two is the movie's production crew and the fact that it's about a house in which supernatural happenings occur. There are a few unintentionally hilarious parts to be found in the film, but overall it's a mess that really comes unraveled in the end. Read more

Saturday, December 14, 2013

“Batman, Incorporated: Volume 2: Gotham’s Most Wanted” Concludes Grant Morrison's Stint on the Dark Knight's Books

As cliché as it sounds, "Batman, Incorporated" really ends with a bang. Just like television shows, some conclude on a high note while others embarrassingly fizzle out and overstay their welcome. This series will definitely be held in high esteem because of its emotional impact and mix of family dynamics and action. Read more

“Batman, Incorporated: Volume 2: Gotham’s Most Wanted” Concludes Grant Morrison's Stint on the Dark Knight's Books

As cliché as it sounds, "Batman, Incorporated" really ends with a bang. Just like television shows, some conclude on a high note while others embarrassingly fizzle out and overstay their welcome. This series will definitely be held in high esteem because of its emotional impact and mix of family dynamics and action. Read more

Friday, December 13, 2013

Little Mermaid II and III Blu-ray

After a theatrical roll-out of the digitally remastered "The Little Mermaid" in high-definition 3-D, Disney did what we've come to expect from them. They released its two direct-to-video sequels, "The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning" and "The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea," in one Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack. The follow-ups might not be as good as the original, but you better believe there's a demand for them. Read more

Little Mermaid II and III Blu-ray

After a theatrical roll-out of the digitally remastered "The Little Mermaid" in high-definition 3-D, Disney did what we've come to expect from them. They released its two direct-to-video sequels, "The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning" and "The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea," in one Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack. The follow-ups might not be as good as the original, but you better believe there's a demand for them. Read more

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Planes Blu-ray

If you have a franchise that people love and you know it, there's only one thing to do. Exploit it by coming up with ways to expand on the concept to maximize the amount of money you can make from it. Disney took its "Cars" series into the sky with the Pixar-less "Planes" and instead of soaring high, the movie coasted along the lower atmosphere. With its release on Blu-ray and DVD, the film gets another chance to charm families in the comfort of their own homes. Read more

Planes Blu-ray

If you have a franchise that people love and you know it, there's only one thing to do. Exploit it by coming up with ways to expand on the concept to maximize the amount of money you can make from it. Disney took its "Cars" series into the sky with the Pixar-less "Planes" and instead of soaring high, the movie coasted along the lower atmosphere. With its release on Blu-ray and DVD, the film gets another chance to charm families in the comfort of their own homes. Read more

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Mickey's Christmas Carol Blu-ray

Disney brings another celebrated film to Blu-ray just in time for the holidays with its release of "Mickey's Christmas Carol: 30th Anniversary Edition." Although Charles Dickens' classic tale has been adapted for the screen dozens upon dozens of times, this version stands out as one of the best. Its use of everyone's favorite cartoon characters to bring the story to life is charming and the pace is perfect to keep the attention of children of all ages. Read more

Mickey's Christmas Carol Blu-ray

Disney brings another celebrated film to Blu-ray just in time for the holidays with its release of "Mickey's Christmas Carol: 30th Anniversary Edition." Although Charles Dickens' classic tale has been adapted for the screen dozens upon dozens of times, this version stands out as one of the best. Its use of everyone's favorite cartoon characters to bring the story to life is charming and the pace is perfect to keep the attention of children of all ages. Read more

Scream Factory TV Terrors

Before the Lifetime Network and other cable channels began producing original features, the big three (CBS, ABC, and NBC for those born in 1990 or later) had their "Movies of the Week" events. Once a week or so, hot actors from the popular shows of the time and semi-retired big-screen stars would appear in a special TV-movie that mirrored the pop culture interests or social issues of the moment. There would be ones about natural disasters, true crimes, and inspirational tales just to name a few subjects. Read more

Scream Factory TV Terrors

Before the Lifetime Network and other cable channels began producing original features, the big three (CBS, ABC, and NBC for those born in 1990 or later) had their "Movies of the Week" events. Once a week or so, hot actors from the popular shows of the time and semi-retired big-screen stars would appear in a special TV-movie that mirrored the pop culture interests or social issues of the moment. There would be ones about natural disasters, true crimes, and inspirational tales just to name a few subjects. Read more

Friday, December 6, 2013

Superboy Seasons 2 & 4

Warner Archive helps fans of the Man of Steel celebrate 75 years of the superhero with the release of "Superboy: The Complete Second Season" and "The Adventures of Superboy: The Complete Fourth Season." Strangely, the third season of the syndicated TV show was put out before either one of these. Each set contains all 26 episodes of its respective season on three DVDs. Read more

Superboy Seasons 2 & 4

Warner Archive helps fans of the Man of Steel celebrate 75 years of the superhero with the release of "Superboy: The Complete Second Season" and "The Adventures of Superboy: The Complete Fourth Season." Strangely, the third season of the syndicated TV show was put out before either one of these. Each set contains all 26 episodes of its respective season on three DVDs. Read more

Friday, November 29, 2013

Red 2 Blu-ray

"Red 2" hits Blu-ray and DVD and begs the question, "Does it live up to its predecessor?" All of the gang from the original is back for more action hijinks minus Morgan Freeman and Karl Urban. While this sequel doesn't hold the same charm, it still makes for an entertaining diversion from the anxieties of real life as we're taken globe-trotting around the world for a couple of hours. Read more

Red 2 Blu-ray

"Red 2" hits Blu-ray and DVD and begs the question, "Does it live up to its predecessor?" All of the gang from the original is back for more action hijinks minus Morgan Freeman and Karl Urban. While this sequel doesn't hold the same charm, it still makes for an entertaining diversion from the anxieties of real life as we're taken globe-trotting around the world for a couple of hours. Read more

Detective Comics Vol. 3 Graphic Novel Review

"Detective Comics Volume 3: Emperor Penguin" is a dual-edged sword of energy and suspense served up by DC Comics. Not only do we get appearances from Oswald Cobblepot, but ones from Poison Ivy, Joker, Clayface, and new villains like the Merrymaker and the title character. I know there've been many complaints about the "New 52," but count me as impressed. Read more

Detective Comics Vol. 3 Graphic Novel Review

"Detective Comics Volume 3: Emperor Penguin" is a dual-edged sword of energy and suspense served up by DC Comics. Not only do we get appearances from Oswald Cobblepot, but ones from Poison Ivy, Joker, Clayface, and new villains like the Merrymaker and the title character. I know there've been many complaints about the "New 52," but count me as impressed. Read more

All the Boys Love Mandy Lane Blu-ray

"Warm Bodies" Director Jonathan Levine's "All The Boys Love Mandy Lane" finally gets a release thanks to Anchor Bay Entertainment and the Weinstein Company. What plays out like a typical slasher film for 75% of its run time is saved by a dose of indie charm and wit, some clever social commentary, and an ending you never see coming. It also gives actors Amber Heard ("Zombieland") and Michael Welch ("The Twilight Saga") a chance to shine brightly as the two main characters. Read more

All the Boys Love Mandy Lane Blu-ray

"Warm Bodies" Director Jonathan Levine's "All The Boys Love Mandy Lane" finally gets a release thanks to Anchor Bay Entertainment and the Weinstein Company. What plays out like a typical slasher film for 75% of its run time is saved by a dose of indie charm and wit, some clever social commentary, and an ending you never see coming. It also gives actors Amber Heard ("Zombieland") and Michael Welch ("The Twilight Saga") a chance to shine brightly as the two main characters. Read more

Saturn 3 Blu-ray

Scream Factory brings 1980's sci-fi schlock-fest "Saturn 3" to Blu-ray for the first time. From its first shot of the underside of a space cruiser flying into the frame towards a planet, you feel the influences of "Alien," "Star Wars," and every other genre film of its type put out in the 1970s. The only difference is in the lower budget the studio had to spend on models, props, and other special effects. Read more

Saturn 3 Blu-ray

Scream Factory brings 1980's sci-fi schlock-fest "Saturn 3" to Blu-ray for the first time. From its first shot of the underside of a space cruiser flying into the frame towards a planet, you feel the influences of "Alien," "Star Wars," and every other genre film of its type put out in the 1970s. The only difference is in the lower budget the studio had to spend on models, props, and other special effects. Read more

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Hunger Games: Catching Fire Movie Review

The much-anticipated follow-up to "The Hunger Games" arrives in theaters and many wonder if it lives up to its hype. With a new director taking over for Gary Ross, it's only fair that many have reservations as to whether or not "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" can live up to the high expectations of audiences and critics. I, for one, feel that the movie succeeds in entertaining and keeping viewers on the edge of their seats (if they haven't read the book already, off course). Read more

Hunger Games: Catching Fire Movie Review

The much-anticipated follow-up to "The Hunger Games" arrives in theaters and many wonder if it lives up to its hype. With a new director taking over for Gary Ross, it's only fair that many have reservations as to whether or not "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" can live up to the high expectations of audiences and critics. I, for one, feel that the movie succeeds in entertaining and keeping viewers on the edge of their seats (if they haven't read the book already, off course). Read more

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Damian: Son of Batman #1 Comic Book

I've never been more upset over the death of a Robin than I was at that of Damian Wayne. I absolutely loved the little smart-mouthed brat and the interaction he had with the past Robins, Alfred, Batman, and his father Bruce Wayne. I separated the Dark Knight and his alter ego on purpose. They are two different people as anyone whose read the comic books and kept up with the character will recognize is the way he prefers it. Read more

Damian: Son of Batman #1 Comic Book

I've never been more upset over the death of a Robin than I was at that of Damian Wayne. I absolutely loved the little smart-mouthed brat and the interaction he had with the past Robins, Alfred, Batman, and his father Bruce Wayne. I separated the Dark Knight and his alter ego on purpose. They are two different people as anyone whose read the comic books and kept up with the character will recognize is the way he prefers it. Read more

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Under the Dome DVD

It's always an event when a Stephen King book is adapted into a movie or miniseries. With "Under the Dome," we now have an ongoing television show from the master of suspense and horror. Although it's more sci-fi than terrifying, it still manages to keep you on the edge of your seat at times. After binge-watching the entire first season, I have to say I was expecting a little more than what I got. Read more

Under the Dome DVD

It's always an event when a Stephen King book is adapted into a movie or miniseries. With "Under the Dome," we now have an ongoing television show from the master of suspense and horror. Although it's more sci-fi than terrifying, it still manages to keep you on the edge of your seat at times. After binge-watching the entire first season, I have to say I was expecting a little more than what I got. Read more

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Man of Steel Biblical Parallels

Many would say Superman has changed a lot in the 75 years since his first appearance. After being rebooted by DC Comics and given more emotional depth, the super hero received an effects-heavy sci-fi overhaul in the form of Zack Snyder's "Man of Steel." Comic book fans wonder what Superman creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, would thinks of the new directions their super hero has moved in since they brought him to life in Action Comics #1. Read more

Man of Steel Biblical Parallels

Many would say Superman has changed a lot in the 75 years since his first appearance. After being rebooted by DC Comics and given more emotional depth, the super hero received an effects-heavy sci-fi overhaul in the form of Zack Snyder's "Man of Steel." Comic book fans wonder what Superman creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, would thinks of the new directions their super hero has moved in since they brought him to life in Action Comics #1. Read more

Man of Steel Blu-ray

"Man of Steel" leaps on to Blu-ray and DVD and the question on everyone's mind is, "How does it hold up in a home entertainment setting?" I'm happy to say it fares well and doesn't lose any of its charm or excitement. I've watched it both on a 32-inch and 45-inch TV and it held up as an emotional and action-packed rollercoaster ride filled with enough well-crafted eye-candy to stun even the most cynical CGI naysayer. Read more

Man of Steel Blu-ray

"Man of Steel" leaps on to Blu-ray and DVD and the question on everyone's mind is, "How does it hold up in a home entertainment setting?" I'm happy to say it fares well and doesn't lose any of its charm or excitement. I've watched it both on a 32-inch and 45-inch TV and it held up as an emotional and action-packed rollercoaster ride filled with enough well-crafted eye-candy to stun even the most cynical CGI naysayer. Read more

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Animal Man Vol. 3 Graphic Novel Review

DC Comics continues to blur the lines between their adult-oriented Vertigo Comics and mainstream identity with "Animal Man Volume 3: Rotworld: The Red Kingdom." This graphic novel collection contains Animal Man #12 through #17 and Swamp Thing #12, #17, and #18. The two monthly series continue to complement each other and give the lesser-known character of Animal Man a better sense of belonging for readers in the DC Universe. Read more

Animal Man Vol. 3 Graphic Novel Review

DC Comics continues to blur the lines between their adult-oriented Vertigo Comics and mainstream identity with "Animal Man Volume 3: Rotworld: The Red Kingdom." This graphic novel collection contains Animal Man #12 through #17 and Swamp Thing #12, #17, and #18. The two monthly series continue to complement each other and give the lesser-known character of Animal Man a better sense of belonging for readers in the DC Universe. Read more

Monday, November 18, 2013

Star Trek: Next Generation: Unification Blu-ray

CBS DVD and Paramount take the release of "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Season Five" on Blu-ray as the perfect opportunity to give fans another two-episode arc seamlessly joined together as a full-length film. "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Unification" serves as a companion piece to 1991's "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country." It's another example of the old cast from the original series joining the new crew (at the time) for some cross-promotion of each other. Read more

Star Trek: Next Generation: Unification Blu-ray

CBS DVD and Paramount take the release of "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Season Five" on Blu-ray as the perfect opportunity to give fans another two-episode arc seamlessly joined together as a full-length film. "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Unification" serves as a companion piece to 1991's "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country." It's another example of the old cast from the original series joining the new crew (at the time) for some cross-promotion of each other. Read more

Man of Steel Costume Tour

The Texas State Fair was fortunate enough to host what many would consider the ultimate opportunity to get up close and personal with the oldest comic book hero, Superman. The "Man of Steel" and Superman 75th Anniversary Costume Tour was housed inside the Centennial Building from September 27th through October 20th. The exhibit was a sight to take in for fans of the Last Son of Krypton who grew up watching him go up against Lex Luthor, giant computers, Richard Pryor, and General Zod on television and the big-screen. Read more

Man of Steel Costume Tour

The Texas State Fair was fortunate enough to host what many would consider the ultimate opportunity to get up close and personal with the oldest comic book hero, Superman. The "Man of Steel" and Superman 75th Anniversary Costume Tour was housed inside the Centennial Building from September 27th through October 20th. The exhibit was a sight to take in for fans of the Last Son of Krypton who grew up watching him go up against Lex Luthor, giant computers, Richard Pryor, and General Zod on television and the big-screen. Read more