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

Smallville: Season 11 Vol. 2 Graphic Novel

"Smallville: Season Eleven Volume Two: Detective" continues to take the TV series into the young adult working world of Clark Kent and Superman. The Man of Steel comes up against another caped avenger and his female sidekick when Batman and Nightwing travel to Metropolis to seek out the murderer of Bruce Wayne's parents. Can the two heroes join forces to simultaneously find the killer and clean up a crime wave between the city streets of Metropolis and Gotham City? Read more

Smallville: Season 11 Vol. 2 Graphic Novel

"Smallville: Season Eleven Volume Two: Detective" continues to take the TV series into the young adult working world of Clark Kent and Superman. The Man of Steel comes up against another caped avenger and his female sidekick when Batman and Nightwing travel to Metropolis to seek out the murderer of Bruce Wayne's parents. Can the two heroes join forces to simultaneously find the killer and clean up a crime wave between the city streets of Metropolis and Gotham City? Read more

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Twilight Zone: Complete Series DVD

CBS DVD and RLJ Entertainment release the perfect present for any classic sci-fi enthusiast in the form of "The Twilight Zone: The Complete Series" collection. All 156 episodes of creator Rod Serling's epic anthology show are found in this special box set. They're conveniently housed on 25 discs for easy access to any of its five seasons. Read more

Twilight Zone: Complete Series DVD

CBS DVD and RLJ Entertainment release the perfect present for any classic sci-fi enthusiast in the form of "The Twilight Zone: The Complete Series" collection. All 156 episodes of creator Rod Serling's epic anthology show are found in this special box set. They're conveniently housed on 25 discs for easy access to any of its five seasons. Read more

Batman Vol. 3 Graphic Novel

DC Comics unleashes the Joker's maniacal fury in "Batman Volume 3: Death of the Family." It's frightening how they take the crazed Clown Prince of Crime and make him even nuttier than he was before the "New 52" reboot. The Joker had some loose screws before, but circumstances have pushed him even further over the abyss and the Dark Knight's family and friends are going to suffer for it. Read more

Batman Vol. 3 Graphic Novel

DC Comics unleashes the Joker's maniacal fury in "Batman Volume 3: Death of the Family." It's frightening how they take the crazed Clown Prince of Crime and make him even nuttier than he was before the "New 52" reboot. The Joker had some loose screws before, but circumstances have pushed him even further over the abyss and the Dark Knight's family and friends are going to suffer for it. Read more

Twilight Forever Blu-ray

Summit Entertainment releases what fans of sparkling vampires and shirtless werewolves have been waiting for since the day the last film was put in theaters - "Twilight Forever: The Complete Saga." Many will be sad that it is probably the last item we'll see from Stephenie Meyer's series of best-selling novels. Others will be ecstatic that they'll hopefully never have to see another piece of product from it again. Read more

Twilight Forever Blu-ray

Summit Entertainment releases what fans of sparkling vampires and shirtless werewolves have been waiting for since the day the last film was put in theaters - "Twilight Forever: The Complete Saga." Many will be sad that it is probably the last item we'll see from Stephenie Meyer's series of best-selling novels. Others will be ecstatic that they'll hopefully never have to see another piece of product from it again. Read more

Monday, November 4, 2013

Monsters University Blu-ray

Disney and Pixar have released one of the most anticipated sequels, "Monsters University," on Blu-ray and DVD. I have only one question after taking it in. How can a follow-up to such a highly regarded movie seem so stale when filmmakers had nearly 12 years to come up with a good storyline? What we get instead is an uninspired family-friendly rehash of "Revenge of the Nerds" and "Revenge of the Nerds 2: Nerds in Paradise." Read more

Monsters University Blu-ray

Disney and Pixar have released one of the most anticipated sequels, "Monsters University," on Blu-ray and DVD. I have only one question after taking it in. How can a follow-up to such a highly regarded movie seem so stale when filmmakers had nearly 12 years to come up with a good storyline? What we get instead is an uninspired family-friendly rehash of "Revenge of the Nerds" and "Revenge of the Nerds 2: Nerds in Paradise." Read more