Box Office Battlefield: Steve Jobs, Paranormal Activity 5, Jem and the Holograms, The Last Witch Hunter, and Rock the Kasbah

Posted on October 23, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Every week, movie studios select candidates to enter the glorious cinematic battlefield for your hard-earned dollars. The weekend warriors of October 23, 2015 includes Steve Jobs, Paranormal Activity 5, Jem and the Holograms, The Last Witch Hunter, Rock the Kasbah, and I Smile Back. Box Office Battlefield is here to help you decide which movie(s) will take precedence over the others while also taking a look at which will come out on top.

Last weekend, Goosebumps delivered nostalgic thrills for late ’80s and early ’90s babies while Crimson Peak and Bridge of Spies faltered to find audiences. With five new wide release contenders vying for the number one spot this weekend, it’s going to be a brutal showdown. The odds are practically stacked against each other. It’s going to be truly outrageous.

Should you see ’em, skip ’em, or rent ’em?

This is the Box Office Battlefield:

Steve Jobs (Danny Boyle) Rated R [122 min] – Set backstage at three iconic product launches and ending in 1998 with the unveiling of the iMac, Steve Jobs takes us behind the scenes of the digital revolution to paint a portrait of the man at its epicenter. Starring Michael Fassbender, Kate Winslet, Seth Rogen, Jeff Daniels, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Katherine Waterston

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 85% • Audience – 79%

My review:

Steve Jobs is an absolute tour de force. I was swept away by the top notch dialogue and acting. Danny Boyle directs the hell out of this film, presenting it in a well-crafted three act structure like you would see in a play. It’s sharp and fast for a movie where all you have are people talking to each other. I was on the edge of my seat at all times hanging on to every word of Aaron Sorkin’s screenplay perfectly delivered by Hollywood’s finest.

And although this is all incredible to behold, it doesn’t feel entirely organic. It would be hard to find people in real life who could talk like these characters, at the pace they bounce off each othter and with such wit. Regardless, the flurry of talent involved putting this cinematic achievement together is well worth the time spent watching it unfold before you. SEE IT!

Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (Gregory Plotkin) Rated R [88 min] – Using a special camera that can see spirits, a family must protect their daughter from an evil entity with a sinister plan.Director: Stars: Chris J. Murray, Brit Shaw, Ivy George, and Dan Gill

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 15% • Audience – 39%

My review:

There must have been something in the water I was drinking before seeing The Ghost Dimension because the 3D gimmick for the final Paranormal Activity movie had me giddy with excitement. I was actually captivated by its use, practically the last ditch effort to revitalize this tired franchise.

The story itself is lackluster and uninventive. It’s nice that they wanted to tie everything together in one ambitious story, but its many parts did not benefit the whole. Since the original and very subtle flick, the PA series has evolved into your typical loud mainstream horror with an over abundance of fake scares and an over opportunistic sound mixer. There’s more tension in silence than that white noise they’ve produced that slowly builds to a boom. It’s annoying and all that sound leading up to the big action beat feels empty compared to when the scares and frights really mean something.

The Ghost Dimension is unsatisfactory, and the fact that they consider this a ghost story when in fact they’ve said all along it’s about demons and witches boggles my mind. WAIT FOR IT ON NETFLIX!

Jem and the Holograms (Jon M. Chu) Rated PG [118 min] – As a small-town girl catapults from underground video sensation to global superstar, she and her three sisters begin a journey of discovering that some talents are too special to keep hidden.Starring Aubrey Peeples, Stefanie Scott, Aurora Perrineau, Hayley Kiyoko, Molly Ringwald, and Juliette Lewis [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 20% • Audience – 51%

My review:

Despite not following the beloved original ’80s cartoon, Jem and the Holograms is fairly competent in its ability to tell a complete story. However, it feels constrained, plays it too safe, and has very weak character development. It’s an average movie that doesn’t know exactly what it wants to be. On one hand it wants to be fun, wacky, and childish like a cartoon, but at the same time it has a very adult feel to it that caters to CW/ABC Family audiences.

I strangely enjoy the music, but in the context of the story when the original songs sung by the band are played too on the nose and don’t work authentically. The girls have a good rapport with one another, but I feel they were all under utilized with little depth to feel any attachment or resonance. RENT IT!

The Last Witch Hunter (Breck Eisner) Rated PG-13 [106 min] – The last witch hunter is all that stands between humanity and the combined forces of the most horrifying witches in history. Starring Vin Diesel, Rose Leslie, Elijah Wood, and Ólafur Darri Ólafsson

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 15% • Audience – 54%

Their reviews:

“The Last Witch Hunter aims for pulpy, comic-book fun, but it’s never as fleet, funny, or detailed as it needs to be. If you’re looking for something above middling in terms of plot, characters, [or] world-building, you’ll need to seek it elsewhere.” – Inkoo Kang (The Wrap)

“The screenplay by a trio of writers is muddled and goofy and riddled with clichés.” – Richard Roeper (Chicago Sun-Times)

My take:

Sounds like The Last Witch Hunter is a big bowl of nope. I had a sliver of hope hiding somewhere inside me that wanted this to be so wacky that it would make for an entertaining time. But from what I’ve gathered from the reviews, Witch Hunter is so bad it’s not worth even a first glance. SKIP IT!

Rock the Kasbah (Barry Levinson) Rated R [100 min] – A down-on-his-luck music manager discovers a teenage girl with an extraordinary voice while on a music tour in Afghanistan and takes her to Kabul to compete on the popular television show, Afghan Star. Starring Bill Murray, Leem Lubany, Zooey Deschanel, and Bruce Willis

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 8% • Audience – 44%

Their reviews:

“Clichéd, enervating, insulting – it’s tough to settle on a single pejorative for “Rock the Kasbah,” though abysmal might do.” – Manohla Dargis (New York Times)

“A comedy that’s openly afraid to seem too sincere or too mawkish, and doesn’t fully commit either to its comedy or its uplift. Like Murray, it’s wry and presented largely in air quotes, with an accompanying eye-roll.” – Tasha Robinson (AV Club)

My take:

There was nothing within the trailer for Rock the Kasbah that caught my interest and it would appear that within the film itself critics couldn’t find anything to latch onto either. Which is sad, because I like Bill Murray, but the story gave him nothing particular enough to capture the actor’s many talents. WAIT FOR IT ON NETFLIX!

I Smile Back (Adam Salky) [Limited] Rated R [85 min] – Laney Brooks does bad things. Married with kids, she takes the drugs she wants, sleeps with the men she wants, disappears when she wants. Now, with the destruction of her family looming, and temptation everywhere, Laney makes one last desperate attempt at redemption. Starring Sarah Silverman, Josh Charles, Skylar Gaertner, and Shayne Coleman

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 44% • Audience – 52%

My review:

I am all in favor for Sarah Silverman continuing to push herself in new directions and to expand her career forward. Silverman gives a very heartfelt and earnest performance that would be surprising to most who are familiar with her raunchy, comedic side. However, I Smile Back isn’t the most capable movie to let her talents shine bright. The third act is a complete nightmare, back-peddling on themes and story arcs that make little sense for her character to revisit or take upon herself. There’s a lot of potential, especially with its poignant ending, but sadly I Smile Back’s sloppy character faults make me frown. WAIT FOR IT ON NETFLIX!

In summation:

I feel that with so many movies releasing wide this weekend they’re all going to cancel each other out.

The Last Witch Hunter is expected to do big business with Vin Diesel at the forefront with all his Fast and Furious fame. But the movie looks too terrible and evoking too much genre that it will turn folks away. Case in point: Jupiter Ascending.

The only thing Rock the Kasbah has going for it is Bill Murray. Unfortunately, that isn’t the most deciding factor to see a movie these days.

Steve Jobs, no matter how wonderful it is, doesn’t have the appeal to grab the attention of demographics outside those who favor the actors, Steve Jobs himself, or awards season movies. Plus the recent Steve Jobs biopic with Ashton Kutcher is on Netflix.

I would like to think that Paranormal Activity will make the big bucks this weekend based on the franchise’s track record, but it’s only opening in 1,500 before it his VOD – a strange roll out Paramount is testing. The 3D might give it a decent push, but there’s been a lot of burnout for that medium.

Which leaves us with Jem and the Holograms. The first trailer set the bar really low with its varying tones. It may be hard for moviegoers to determine who Jem and the Holograms is intended for. It’s is all over the place and I doubt parents are going to take their kids to something that feels more adult thanks to its bizarre marketing.

Last weekend, Goosebumps and The Martian hit figures in the low twenties. With the buffet selection of movies to choose from this weekend, a previous winner could come out on top.

So as it stands, I believe the victor for this weekend will be:

Winner: The Martian

What will you be watching this weekend? What did you think of the current releases? Tell us in the comment section below.

Movie synopses courtesy of IMDb.com and Tomatometer Scores from Rotten Tomatoes

Netflix Streaming Report: Beasts of No Nation, Marvel’s Avengers Assemble, and More

Posted on October 22, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Welcome to your Netflix Streaming Report for October 22, 2015. After the long week you deserve a relaxing staycation with a bowl of popcorn, a bucket of ice cream, and only your Netflix queue to judge you. This past week, Netflix Watch Instant has been kind enough to supply us with Beasts of No Nation, Marvel’s Avengers Assemble, Ain’t Them Body Saints, and more. Also, see all the titles that are leaving as of November 1.

Source: Tumblr

Beasts of No Nation (Cary Joji Fukunaga) Not Rated [137 min] – A drama based on the experiences of Agu, a child soldier fighting in the civil war of an unnamed African country. Starring Idris Elba, Abraham Attah, Emmanuel Affadzi, and Ricky Adelayitor [Watch the Trailer]

There’s been a ton of buzz surrounding Beasts of No Nation, and sadly I have not had time to check it out; mostly because I want to be prepared for its dower subject matter. Once I see it I’ll be sure to update with my thoughts. It looks very impressive and I hear Idris Elba has Oscar potential.

(Watch it now)

Source: TVtropes.org

Marvel’s Avengers Assemble (Jack Kirby, Kari Rosenberg, Joe Simon, and Wendy Willming) Rated TV-Y7-FV [23 min] – The further adventures of the Marvel Universe’s mightiest general membership superhero team. Starring Fred Tatasciore, Roger Craig Smith, and Troy Baker

I’m a bigger fan of Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, but since that series has been replaced with Avengers Assemble we’ll have to deal with it. This series is a mediocre substitute that treads over a lot of the same story threads and villains over and over again. It’s still enjoyable to see these characters work together, but I wish it wasn’t as childish and more character driven.

(Watch it now)

Source: VH1

Ain’t Them Bodies Saints (David Lowery) Rated R [96 min] – The tale of an outlaw who escapes from prison and sets out across the Texas hills to reunite with his wife and the daughter he has never met. Starring Rooney Mara, Casey Affleck, and Ben Foster [Watch the Trailer]

I’m not a huge fan of Ain’t Them Body Saints. I think all the actors involve do a stand up job, but the story didn’t fascinate me or capture my attention. Perhaps it may be something you would enjoy?

(Watch it now)

Anthony Jeselnik: Thoughts and Prayers Rated TV-MA [59 min] – There’s no subject too dark as the comedian skewers taboos and riffs on national tragedies before pulling back the curtain on his provocative style.

There’s something about Anthony Jeselnik’s deadpan, cynical humor that cracks me up. His comedy is so dark and uncomfortable that you can’t help but laugh. His subject matter is disturbing and not for the faint of heart. He’s been on a handful of Comedy Central’s roasts, which give you a pretty good idea where his mind is at. Check out his roast of Donald Trump.

(Watch it now)

Also newly available on Netflix streaming this week:

Back in Time
LEGO DC Comics: Batman Be-Leaguered
All Hail King Julien (Season 2)

Leaving Netflix in November 2015:

Nov. 1

1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992)
America in Primetime (2011)
Bali: Season 1 (2006)
Balto 3: Wings of Change (2004)
Batman & Robin (1997)
Best Kept Secret (2013)
Best Laid Plans (1999)
Changing Lanes (2002)
Cleopatra (1963)
Conspiracy Theory (1997)
Death Warrant (1990)
Fargo (1996)
Fela Kuti: Music Is the Weapon (1982)
Funny Games (1997)
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide (2012)
Hero and Terror (1988)
House of Flying Daggers (2004)
Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie (2002)
Lunopolis (2009)
Move Over, Darling (1963)
Norman (2010)
Pajanimals: Season 1 (2010)
Rudy (1993)
Saw (2004)
Saw II (2005)
Saw III (2006)
Saw IV (2007)
Saw V (2008)
Scream (1996)
Secrets of Mary Magdalene (2006)
Soul Plane (2004)
Stand by Me (1986)
Taking Lives (2004)
The Blues Brothers (1980)
The Core (2003)
The Last Waltz (1978)
The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio (2005)
Three Kings (1999)
Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns (2008)
Year of the Dog (2007)
Your Inner Fish (2014)

Nov. 3

Bratz: Good Vibes (2011)

Nov. 5

The Perfect Stranger (2011)

Nov. 7

Shanghai Noon (2000)

Nov. 8

My Hope America with Billy Graham (2013)

Nov. 9

The Road (2011)

Nov. 10

Bratz: Pampered Petz (2010)

Nov. 12

A Girl Walks into a Bar (2011)

Nov. 13

Stranger by the Lake (2014)

Nov. 15

Fleabag Monkeyface: Season 1 (2012)

Nov. 16

Teen Beach Movie (2013)

Nov. 17

Bratz: Diamondz (2006)

Nov. 19

Breaking the Girls (2013)
Crystal Fairy & the Magical Cactus (2013)

Nov. 22

Alpha and Omega: The Legend of the Saw Tooth Cave (2014)
Bel Ami (2012)
Steve Jobs: The Lost Interview (2012)

Nov. 24

Art of Flight: The Series (2012)

Nov. 27

Burning Man (2011)
Leviathan (2012)

Nov. 28

Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap (2012)

Nov. 29

Romanzo Criminale: Season 1-2
Salamander: Season 1 (2012)

Nov. 30

Jesus Henry Christ (2011)
Virginia (2010)

What will you be watching this weekend?

Look forward to more new titles from the Netflix Streaming Report every Thursday on TTRC.

All plot synopses courtesy of IMDb.com

Image Source: Forbes

A Cruel Intentions TV Show is in the Works for NBC

Posted on October 21, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

If you were a fan of the 1999 cult classic, Cruel Intentions, you’ll be thrilled to know that the film’s sequel is coming to the small screen. The original was a box office success for its time, grossing $75 million worldwide on a $10.5 million budget. It lived on in spirit as a direct-to-DVD franchise with two sequels, rightfully entitled Cruel Intentions 2 and Cruel Intentions 3. Sony TV hopes to revive and capitalize on the film’s previous popularity. Which brings up two important questions. Do we need a Cruel Intentions TV show? No. Do we want one? Hell yes.

Here’s the unofficial Cruel Intentions TV show plot synopsis, courtesy of Deadline:

Set in present day, Cruel Intentions follows the rags-to-riches story of 16-year-old Bash Casey, the son of the late Sebastian Valmont (played by Phillippe) and Annette Hargrove (Witherspoon). Upon finding his late father’s journal, Bash learns of the family legacy he didn’t know existed. In search of answers, he trades his small-town Kansas upbringing for a scholarship to the prestigious Brighton Preparatory Academy in San Francisco and soon finds himself in a world of sex, money, power, and corruption he never could have imagined.

NBC has hired the film’s original writer-director Roger Kumble (Just Friends; The Sweetest Thing) to spearhead the project. Producer Neal H. Moritz. Kumble, who has been working as a TV episodic director for the past five years, is set to helm the potential pilot and develop the script; he will also executive produce with Moritz and Pavun Shetty of Original Film. Lindsey Rosin and Jordan Ross, the duo behind the The Unauthorized Musical Parody Of Cruel Intentions, will also join the Cruel Intentions TV show team to help develop the script in addition to being co-executive producers.

The series joins a lineup of TV show remakes from Sony TV including My Best Friend’s Wedding (ABC), Think Like A Man (Fox), and In The Line Of Fire (NBC). Just this year alone, 2015 television has been privy to many series adapted from the silver screen, including Teen Wolf, Scream, Ash vs. The Evil Dead, Limitless, and 12 Monkeys. Sony also has its hands on three more film to television adaptations in the works, which includes My Best Friend’s Wedding for ABC, Think Like a Man for FOX, and In the Line of fire for NBC. Furthermore, Taken is being adapted for NBC, Lethal Weapon and Behind Enemy Lines for FOX, Training Day for CBS, and The Notebook for none other than the CW.

An official series premiere date has yet to be announced for the Cruel Intentions TV show, but we’ll keep you updated as the production gains momentum.

Source: Deadline

6 Must Watch Horror Movies on Netflix this Halloween [2015 Edition]

Posted on October 21, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Over the past two years, Turn The Right Corner has sought out the best horror movies on Netflix for your streaming pleasure. It isn’t truly a successful Halloween without a good horror movie. There are still some frightfully good picks from 2013 (Tucker and Dale vs. Evil, V/H/S, V/HS/2, Compliance, I Saw the Devil, and The Ward) and from 2014 (The ABCs of Death and The Sacrament) still available. Below, I’ve selected six new horror movies on Netflix you must watch this Halloween.

Without further ado, let’s begin:

The Nightmare (Rodney Ascher) Not Rated [91 min] – A look at a frightening condition that plagues thousands; sleep paralysis. Starring Siegfried Peters, Stephen Michael Joseph, and Yatoya Toy

According to WebMD, up to four in ten persons have suffered from sleep paralysis. The condition may not sound appealing cinematically, but the way it is depicted in The Nightmare is both fascinating and terrifying. I can only recall one personal instance of sleep paralysis. From what I can remember, I had been stabbed in the chest within my dream. I awoke frozen, unable to move, until I had come to the realization I was not in a dream. Having no control over your body is a dreadful feeling, and The Nightmare paints sleep paralysis as frightening as any fictional horror story.

(Watch it Now)

Source: opinion-as-a-moviefreak

Starry Eyes (Kevin Kolsch and Dennis Widmyer) Not Rated [98 min] – A hopeful young starlet uncovers the ominous origins of the Hollywood elite and enters into a deadly agreement in exchange for fame and fortune. Starring Alex Essoe, Amanda Fuller, Noah Sega, Fabianne Therese, and Shane Coffey

Refreshingly disturbing, Starry Eyes doesn’t try to hide its intentions – a chilling commentary on the state of Hollywood. For such a small indie horror, Alex Essoe gives her mind, body, and soul to deliver a purely vivid performance. The film has a dark core, full of uncomfortable situations that really capture the sleaziness of the entertainment industry.

(Watch it Now)

Source: Tumblr

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (Ana Lily Amirpour) Unrated [99 min] – In the Iranian ghost-town Bad City, a place that reeks of death and loneliness, the townspeople are unaware they are being stalked by a lonesome vampire. Starring Sheila Vand, Arash Marandi, and Marshall Manesh

If you’re looking for a horror movie that is less spectacle than your traditional Halloween fare, A Girl Walks Alone at Home at Night is wondrous vampire noir. Intimately set in the fictional town of Bad City, there’s something hauntingly poignant about the vampire’s relationship to its citizens. Vand’s subtle performance works to her advantage to convey in many layers her character’s tale of loneliness and isolation.

(Watch it Now)

Source: MyNewPlaidPants

Creep (Patrick Brice) Rated R [82 min] – When a videographer answers a Craigslist ad for a one-day job in a remote mountain town, he finds his client is not at all what he initially seems. Starring Patrick Brice and Mark Duplass

If it weren’t for the ending, I would have been sadly disappointed by Creep. It’s not the frights that make this movie great, but the message it leaves behind. Creep is a slow burn horror that requires patience and doesn’t show all its cards until the final moments of the movie. What Creep manages to do well with its plodding momentum is build a unique rapport with its characters, playfully skewing your expectations of the story as well as your trust in others.

(Watch it Now)

Source: Running-Reel

Honeymoon (Leigh Janiak) Rated [87 min] – A newlywed couple finds their lake-country honeymoon descend into chaos after Paul finds Bea wandering and disoriented in the middle of their first night. Starring Rose Leslie, Harry Treadaway, and Ben Huber

Sometimes the more personal the story the easier it is for a horror movie to resonate with your worst fears. As with any honeymoon, emotions are expected to be high, and to succumb to the horrors that this couple endures would be unimaginably horrific. The capacity of love and the lengths one would go to protect their significant speaks volumes in Honeymoon, giving it the right amount of depth to feel terrified for the newlyweds.

(Watch it Now)

Source: wifflegif

Dark Skies (Scott Stewart) Rated PG-13 [97 min] – As the Barret family’s peaceful suburban life is rocked by an escalating series of disturbing events, they come to learn that a terrifying and deadly force is after them. Starring Keri Russell, Jake Brennan, Josh Hamilton, Dakota Goyo, and J.K. Simmons

Extraterrestrials and alien abduction stories are few and far between these days when it comes to the horror genre. Aliens have become less scary and more abundant in action fantasy or kids movies. Dark Skies is an admirable horror movie involving little grey men that flew under the radar back in 2013. The possibility of life outside our planet is so high that these fears should be explored more. And Dark Skies does so with incredible tension.

(Watch it Now)

BONUS:

Source: Observer.com

The X-Files (Chris Carter) Rated TV-MA [44 min] – Two FBI agents, Fox Mulder the believer and Dana Scully the skeptic, investigate the strange and unexplained while hidden forces work to impede their efforts. Starring David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, and Mitch Pileggi

Now’s your chance to binge all of The X-Files before the revival miniseries debuts in 2016. Many episodes of this series are so eerie that they stick with you long after the credits role. Chris Carter and his team of writers were ahead of their time with brilliant ideas of the supernatural and unexplained. The truth is out there!

(Watch it Now)

And here’s an extensive list of other horror movies on Netflix streaming you may be interested in:

Silence of the Lambs
The Den
The Babadook
Dead Snow
Dead Snow: Red vs Dead
Curse of Chucky
V/H/S: Viral
Scream
Scream 2
Scream 3
Saw I-V
Troll Hunter
The Host
Monsters
Bad Milo
Teeth
[REC] 4: Apocalypse
Day of the Dead
John Dies at the End
Frankenstein’s Army
Devil
The Hole
From Dusk til Dawn
Let the Right One In
American Mary
Rosemary’s Baby
The Sixth Sense
Children of the Corn
Plus One
Hatchet 3
Mimic
Mimic 2
Mimic 3
Antisocial
Sharknado
Sharknado 2: The Second One
Hellraiser
Hellbound: Hellraiser II
Hellraiser III: Hell on Earth
Hellrasier: Bloodline
Hellraiser: Inferno
Hellraiser: Hellseeker
Hellraiser: Deader
Hellraiser: Hellworld
Hellraiser: Revelations
Tremors 4: Bloodlines
The Relic
Never Sleep Again: The Elm Street Legacy
Monster Squad
The Canal
Haunter
Sleepy Hollow
Zombeavers
Halloween 6: The Curse of Michael Myers
Halloween: Resurrection

What will you watch this October?

Original image source: Tobias Wedel

Synopses source: IMDb.com

Now Available to Own: Jurassic World, Nurse Jackie, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and More

Posted on October 20, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Brace your bank accounts, it’s time to see what’s Now Available to Own for the week of October 20, 2015. Every Tuesday we run down new movie, television, and video game releases that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home, as well as some slick deals that can help save you some coin. New on shelves this week are Jurassic World, Back to the Future: The 30th Anniversary Edition, Nurse Jackie, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, and more.

Source: EndlessFacts

Movies on Blu-ray

Jurassic World (Colin Trevorrow) Rated PG-13 [124 min] – Twenty-two years after the events of Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar now features a fully functioning dinosaur theme park, Jurassic World, as originally envisioned by John Hammond. After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, in order to fulfill a corporate mandate, a new attraction is created to re-spark visitor’s interest, which backfires horribly. Starring Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Ty Simpkins, Irrfan Khan, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Nick Robinson

Jurassic World is an overly bloated sequel machine that never reaches the level of visual storytelling that Jurassic Park is able to achieve. There are no characters to truly resonate with, especially the kids, and the “villain’s” intentions are severely underwritten and almost cartoonish. The entire time while watching Jurassic World it felt as though Trevorrow was angry at the state of the industry and wanted to make it his mission to metaphorically comment on how corporate Hollywood has become. My positive feelings toward this film have greatly waned since I saw it in theaters. It’s a giant spectacle over-hyped by nostalgia.

Special features include:

Welcome to Jurassic World
Jurassic World: All-Access Pass
Innovation Center Tour with Chris Pratt
Jurassic’s Closest Shaves
Dinosaurs Roam Once Again
Chris & Colin Take on the World
Delete Scenes

The Vatican Tapes (Mark Neveldine) Rated PG-13 [91 min] – A priest and two Vatican exorcists must do battle with an ancient satanic force to save the soul of a young woman. Starring Olivia Taylor Dudley, Michael Peña, Dougray Scott, and Djimon Hounsou

Can we please stop with the demonic/satanic possession movies. There’s no original thoughts ehre, the scares are all predictable, and there’s nothing new this movie is trying to say. Granted, The Vatican Tapes does end on a unique turn of events, but the entire time it’s as if you’re watching someone tick off boxes from an exorcism checklist.

Special features include:

Audio Commentary with Director Mark Neveldine, Cinematographer Gerardo Madrazo and Actress Olivia Taylor Dudley
“Tale of the Tapes” Featurette
Deleted Scenes
Extended Scenes

Back to the Future: 30th Anniversary Trilogy Edition (Robert Zemeckis) Rated PG [116/108/118 min] – A young man is accidentally sent 30 years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown, and must make sure his high-school-age parents unite in order to save his own existence. Starring Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Thomas F. Wilson, Crispin Glover, Claudia Wells, and Mary Steenburgen

This is one of the best trilogies ever made. Period. End of discussion.

CONTENT:

Back to the Future, Back to the Future Part II, Back to the Future Part III
Bonus Disc with More than Two Hours of Content
Digital HD with UltraViolet (Blu-ray™ Exclusive)
Collectible Packaging (Blu-ray™ Exclusive)
Back to the Future, Back to the Future Part II, Back to the Future Part III
Back to the Future: The Complete Animated Series DVD
Bonus Disc with More than 2 Hours of Content
Digital HD with UltraViolet (Blu-ray Exclusive)
Back to the Future: A Visual History 64-Page Book
Light-Up “Flux Capacitor” Packaging

Special features include:

All New Original Shorts: Including Doc Brown Saves the World!, starring Christopher Lloyd.
OUTATIME: Restoring the DeLorean: An inside look at the 2012 restoration of the most iconic car in film history.
Looking Back to the Future: A 9-part retrospective documentary from 2009 on the trilogy’s legacy.
Back to the Future: The Animated Series: 2 episodes (“Brothers” and “Mac the Black”) from the 1991 series featuring live action segments with Christopher Lloyd as Doc Brown.
Tales from the Future 6-Part Documentary
The Physics of Back to the Future
Deleted Scenes
Michael J. Fox Q&A
Eight Archival Featurettes
Behind the Scenes Footage
Music Videos
Audio Commentaries
Back to the Future: The Ride
Drawn to the Future: New interview with creator/writer Bob Gale and writer John Ludin (TBD)
Photo Galleries: Rare archival materials featuring sketches, storyboards and more (TBD)

The Wolfpack (Crystal Moselle) [Limited] Rated R [80 min] – Locked away from society in an apartment on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, the Angulo brothers learn about the outside world through the films that they watch. Nicknamed, ‘The Wolfpack,’ the brothers spend their childhood reenacting their favorite films using elaborate homemade props and costumes. Their world is shaken up when one of the brothers escapes and everything changes. Starring Bhagavan Angulo, Govinda Angulo, Jagadisa Angulo, and Krsna Angulo

I’m not a documentary guy. I enjoy the good ones, but it takes a lot of energy for me to want to watch them. That being said, The Wolfpack is a fascinating true tale that feels unbelievable. The story is absolutely shocking to digest and the way the family presents itself and tells their story is simply incredible. You can’t take your eyes off the screen, every word must be heard.

No special feature included

Continue Reading for TV Releases –>>

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Spectacular STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS Finds Purpose [91 Screenshots]

Posted on October 19, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

I’ll give you a second to clean yourself off after watching the new Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer a few dozen times. Thankfully, after it’s premiere during the San Francisco Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles game during Monday Night Football, the trailer arrived online in beautiful HD before any rebel scum could leak a lesser quality version.

Who are you? What are you fighting for? Is following in the footsteps of a Sith Lord whom I’ve never met a solid life plan? Star Wars: The Force Awakens is asking the big existential questions. While the original Star Wars trilogy told a tale of good versus evil, and the prequel trilogy a more politically driven love story, it would appear that our heroes in the start of this new chapter of the most epic space opera are seeking purpose in a galaxy thrown into chaos.

This new Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer doesn’t give away many details about the plot, but rather the film sells itself on the direction of its main characters. Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega) come across as folks who have lost their way, seeking something greater than themselves. And it seems as though they’ll find what they’re looking for after they meet an aged Han Solo (Harrison Ford).

I’m loving the shades of depth emitted from our protagonists, the aerial battle sequences look phenomenal, and the sweeping score by John Williams is immensely emotional, but somehow I remain cautiously optimistic. I think this trailer does everything right to bring Star Wars back into the good graces of every fanboy and girl who was burned by the prequels, I just can’t put my guard down quite yet.

We’re led to believe that Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) is hoping to carry out Darth Vader’s wishes, but something tells me the editing in the trailer is misleading and he may be talking to someone else – not the extra crispy helmet of the once great Sith Lord. We also have no idea where Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) is in all of this. And then there’s a ton of cast members who have yet to be revealed, such as Domhnall Gleeson or Andy Serkis.

The pace at which they are rolling out details is fantastic. The less the better, but just enough to appease my interest. I’ve already bought my ticket for a true IMAX 3D experience, which went on sale earlier today. Now all that’s left is the waiting game.

What’s interesting about the promotion of this trailer leading up to its release is that the teasers had footage not shown in the final cut. In the first teaser below there is a stoic shot of Oscar Isaac’s Poe and in the second is Daisy Ridley’s Rey looking up at fighters flying across the sky.

TOMORROW #TheForceAwakens https://t.co/GcFzg2MiPr

— Walt Disney Studios (@DisneyStudios) October 18, 2015

The First Order is coming. Tune in to Monday Night Football on @ESPN for a new look at #TheForceAwakens.https://t.co/BbPQZ1cjBo

— Star Wars (@starwars) October 19, 2015

Here’s the official theatrical movie poster that released yesterday with the teasers (click on the image to enlarge):

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Theatrical Movie Poster

Source: StarWars.com

That’s no moon. Would The First Order really attempt a third time to make a planet killer after two failed goes at it? Perhaps J.J. Abrams is obsessed with spacecrafts that can blow up planets? Maybe The Rebel Alliance built this one and are giving The First Order a taste of their own medicine? Where’s Luke in the poster? What’s that little creature standing in between R2-D2 and BB-8? Is it symbolic that Kylo Ren and Rey’s weapons mirror each other? Are they brother and sister?

(Click on any thumbnail below to begin the image gallery)

Directed by J.J. Abrams from a screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan and Abrams, Star Wars: The Force Awakens stars John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, Andy Serkis, Lupita Nyong’o, Gwendoline Christie, Crystal Clarke, Pip Andersen, Domhnall Gleeson, and Max von Sydow. They will join the original stars of the saga, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Leia Organa [Solo?] Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca, and Kenny Baker as R2-D2. The film is set to release on December 18, 2015.

Source: StarWars YouTube

Coming Soon to Blu-Ray and DVD: Ant-Man, The Man from UNCLE, Ted 2, and More

Posted on October 17, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

While we provide you with a list of available new releases Now Available to Own every Tuesday, Coming Soon to Blu-ray and DVD looks at all of the recent home video announcements. For the week of October 17, 2015 we have Ant-Man, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Ted 2, and more. Find out when they’ll be out and what special features movie fans can expect below.

Available on 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 8

Ant-Man (Peyton Reed) Rated PG-13 [117 min] – Armed with a super-suit with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, con-man Scott Lang must embrace his inner hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, plan and pull off a heist that will save the world. Starring Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Corey Stoll, Evangeline Lilly, and Michael Peña [Watch the trailer]

Special features include:

Audio Commentary with Peyton Reed and Paul Rudd
Making Of An Ant-Sized Heist: Set your watch and count down the action in this behind-the-scenes look at how to pull off a heist movie, including Scott Lang’s heist “family,” Ant-Man’s costume, plus amazing stunts and effects.
Let’s Go To The Macroverse: Shrink down to size in this fascinating look at creating the world from Ant-Man’s perspective, from macro photography through the subatomic.
WHIH NewsFront: A collection of content, including a glimpse at the future of Pym Technologies with Darren Cross, anchor Christine Everhart’s interview with soon-to-be-released prisoner Scott Lang on his notorious VistaCorp heist, and more.
Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
Gag Reel

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD November 17

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (Guy Ritchie) Rated PG-13 [116 min] – In the early 1960s, CIA agent Napoleon Solo and KGB operative Illya Kuryakin participate in a joint mission against a mysterious criminal organization, which is working to proliferate nuclear weapons. Starring Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer, Alicia Vikander, and Elizabeth Debicki

Special features include:

Spy Vision: Recreating ’60s Cool
A Higher Class Of Hero
Metisse Motorcycles: Proper-And Very British
The Guys from U.N.C.L.E.
A Man of Extraordinary Talents
U.N.C.L.E: On-Set Spy

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 15

Ted 2 (Seth MacFarlane) Rated R [115 min] – Newlywed couple Ted and Tami-Lynn want to have a baby, but in order to qualify to be a parent, Ted will have to prove he’s a person in a court of law. Starring Mark Wahlberg, Seth MacFarlane, Amanda Seyfried, Jessica Barth, Giovanni Ribisi, Patrick Warburton, Sam J. Jones, and Morgan Freeman [Watch the Trailer]

Special features include:

A Giant Opening Dance Number (Blu-ray exclusive)
Deleted Scenes (Blu-ray exclusive)
Gag Reel (Blu-ray exclusive)
Cameo Buddies (Blu-ray exclusive)
Thunder Buddies 4 Lyfe
Roadtripping
Creating Comic-Con
Feature Commentary with Seth MacFarlane, Alec Sulkin & Wellesley Wild and Jessica Barth

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD November 24

No Escape (John Erick Dowdle) Rated R [103 min] – In their new overseas home, an American family soon finds themselves caught in the middle of a coup, and they frantically look for a safe escape in an environment where foreigners are being immediately executed. Starring Lake Bell, Pierce Brosnan, Owen Wilson, Thanawut Kasro

Special features include:

Audio Commentary with Writer/Director John Erick Dowdle and Writer/Producer Drew Dowdle
Deleted Scenes
Behind-the-Scenes Gallery

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 8

Knock Knock (Eli Roth) Rated R [99 min] – When a devoted husband and father is left home alone for the weekend, two stranded young women unexpectedly knock on his door for help. What starts out as a kind gesture results in a dangerous seduction and a deadly game of cat and mouse. Starring Keanu Reeves, Lorenza Izzo, and Ana de Armas [Watch the Trailer]

Special features include:

Audio Commentary by Eli Roth, Lorenza Izo, Nicolás López and Colleen Camp
Deleted Scenes with Optional Audio Commentary by Eli Roth
“The Art of Destruction: The Making of Knock Knock” Featurette
Still Gallery

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 1

Goodnight Mommy (Severin Fiala and Veronika Franz) [Limited] Rated R [99 min] – Twin boys move to a new home with their mother after she has face changing cosmetic surgery, but under her bandages is someone the children don’t recognize. Starring Susanne Wuest, Lukas Schwarz, Elias Schwarz, and Hans Escher

Special features include:

“A Conversation with Filmmakers Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala”

Available on Criterion Blu-ray January 19

Inside Llewyn Davis (Ethan Coen and Joel Coen) A week in the life of a young singer as he navigates the Greenwich Village folk scene of 1961. Starring Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, John Goodman, Garrett Hedlund, and Justin Timberlake

Special features include:

New 4K digital transfer, with 5.1 surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack on the Blu-ray
New audio commentary featuring writers Robert Christgau, David Hajdu, and Sean Wilentz
The First Hundred Feet, the Last Hundred Feet, a new conversation between filmmaker Guillermo del Toro and directors Joel and Ethan Coen about the evolution of their approach, from Blood Simple to Inside Llewyn Davis
Inside “Inside Llewyn Davis,” a forty-five-minute 2013 documentary
Another Place, Another Time (2014), a 101-minute film documenting an Inside Llewyn Davis tribute concert, featuring Joan Baez, Mumford & Sons, Punch Brothers, Gillian Welch, Jack White, and others
New piece on the history of “Fare Thee Well (Dink’s Song),” featuring music producer T Bone Burnett and the Coens
New piece about Dave Van Ronk and the Greenwich Village folk scene of the early sixties, featuring music writer and historian Elijah Wald
Sunday, a short 1961 documentary by Dan Drasin about the riots that took place in Washington Square Park after folk musicians were prevented from gathering and playing there
Trailers
PLUS: An essay by film critic Kent Jones

Available on DVD and Digital HD December 15

Teen Wolf (Season 5 Part 1) (Jeff Davis) Rated TV-14 [41 min] – A somewhat awkward teen is attacked by a werewolf and inherits the curse himself, as well as the enemies that come with it. Starring Tyler Posey, Dylan O’Brien, and Tyler Hoechlin

Special features include:

Gag Reel
Special Effects Breakdown: Jeep Flip
Special Effects Breakdown: Building a Character
Special Effects Breakdown: Building a Scene

Available on DVD and Digital HD December 1

Un Gallo con Muchos Huevos (Gabriel Riva Palacio Alatriste and Rodolfo Riva-Palacio Alatriste) Rated PG-13 [98 min] – Toto, a young chick born the run of the litter, rises to the occasion when a rancher threatens his home and his family. Starring Bruno Bichir, Carlos Espejel, and Angélica Vale

Special features include:

Behind-the-Scenes Featurette (English-language cast)
Behind-the-Scenes Featurette (Spanish-language cast)

And that’s it for this week. What are you looking forward to picking up when they release?

Stay tuned for more Blu-Ray and DVD announcements every Saturday.

All plot synopses courtesy of IMDb.com

Click here for more home video announcements

Box Office Battlefield: Crimson Peak, Goosebumps, and Bridge of Spies

Posted on October 16, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Every week, movie studios select candidates to enter the glorious battlefield for your hard-earned dollars. The weekend warriors of October 16, 2015 includes Crimson Peak, Goosebumps, and Bridge of Spies, as well as a handful of limited releases such as Room, Meadowland, and Truth. Box Office Battlefield is here to help you decide which movie(s) will take priority over the others and determine who will be victorious. Should you see ’em, skip ’em, or rent ’em? Find out below!

Last weekend, The Martian continued its voyage into the cinematic history books at number one while Pan absolutely bombed. With more a handful of big new releases this weekend, does Matt Damon stand a chance for a three-peat? Viewer, beware, you’re in for a scare! This is the Box Office Battlefield:

Goosebumps (Rob Letterman) Rated PG [103 min] – A teenager teams up with the daughter of young adult horror author R.L. Stine after the writer’s imaginary demons are set free on the town of Greendale, Maryland. Starring Jack Black, Dylan Minnette, Odeya Rush, and Ryan Lee [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 72% • Audience – 77%

My review:

There is something magical about Jumanji that Goosebumps doesn’t quite have. While both films explore what happens when imaginary creatures terrorize a small suburban town and the only way to stop the madness is by sucking them back into an object by completing a task, Goosebumps doesn’t have the same amount of heart. The dialogue is fairly smart and there are some imaginative set pieces, but unfortunately the characters are very thin with little to offer, especially Ryan Lee’s Champ.

Jack Black is wonderful as R.L. Stine, however. He chews up every scene with a twinkle in his eye. It’s his best role since starring as the titular character in 2011’s Bernie. Rising stars Dylan Minnette and Odeya Rush have decent chemistry together, but again, there isn’t enough depth behind each of their characters to really root for them.

With so much rich content to draw from the pages of Stine’s classic tales, many of the monsters get thrown to the wayside and are given little to do. Too much time is devoted to Slappy the Dummy, the Abominable Snowman, and the Werewolf of Fever Swamp. There were so many fun monsters to choose from that could have made Goosebumps more thrilling.

The biggest offense this movie offers is its lack in playing by the rules. The third act becomes such a hodgepodge of convenience in order to tie up loose ends that you’d think the screenwriters ran out of paper and had to finish the rest of the story by scribbling on napkins with crayons. RENT IT!

Crimson Peak (Guillermo del Toro) Rated R [119 min] – In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author is torn between love for her childhood friend and the temptation of a mysterious outsider. Trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she is swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds…and remembers. Starring Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston, and Charlie Hunnam [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 69% • Audience – 66%

My review:

Crimson Peak is an ambitious ghost story that fails to make its primary subjects as incredibly detailed as the film’s production design. The atmosphere and tone of the film is right where it needs to be, but the characters that inhabit this movie are too underwritten to gain an understanding of their motivations. Despite this hiccup, the actors who portray these ghastly weak characters act the hell out of this film.

The envisioned world that Guillermo del Toro has brought to life is highly commendable. From the “bleeding” walls of red clay to the twisty corridors of the manor, the visual spectacle relies too heavily on its sets and effects to create a chilling effect that it hopes you forget about asking bigger questions around the theme or the character’s actions. I wouldn’t be as quick as to call Guillermo del Toro the Michael Bay of horror movies, but all sizzle and no steak is what you’ll find with Crimson Peak. RENT IT!

Bridge of Spies (Steven Spielberg) Rated PG-13 [135 min] – An American lawyer is recruited by the CIA during the Cold War to help rescue a pilot detained in the Soviet Union. Starring Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, Alan Alda, and Amy Ryan [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 93% • Audience – 91%

My review:

Bridge of Spies delivers exactly what you’d come to expect from a Steven Spielberg biopic. Every aspect of this film is crafted to near perfection from the veteran filmmaker. As I’ve mentioned multiple times in the past, I’m not a period piece nor a biopic kinda guy. However, Tom Hanks is too enthralling not to be sucked in by his spectacular charisma and the cold war drama finds heart pounding tension with well-written dialogue polished by the Coen brothers.

Although Bridge of Spies is a little over two hours, I would have welcomed more scenes devoted to building the relationship between Tom Hanks’ and Mark Rylance’s characters to help make the ending feel a bit more earned. It’s not that their time isn’t valued, but with how complicated the situation is and how little time is spent with the two of them together, there isn’t enough proof to understand why Donovan is willing to do what’s right and defend Rylance’s Russian spy, Rudolf Abel. MATINEE IT!

Room (Lenny Abrahamson) [Limited] Rated R [118 min] – After 5-year old Jack and his Ma escape from the enclosed surroundings that Jack has known his entire life, the boy makes a thrilling discovery: the outside world. Starring Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay, Sean Bridgers, and Wendy Crewson [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 95% • Audience – 92%

My review:

Room is an impressive story of love, family, and courage. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before, from an unlikely perspective that makes the traumatizing experience even more compelling. The heartfelt performances from all actors involved, especially from Brie Larson and Jacob Trembaly, are truly captivating. The brilliant dynamic between mother and son along with the dramatic undertaking they must endure is remarkably honest and poignant, but at the same time triumphant and humanizing. SEE IT!

Meadowland (Reed Morano) Rated R [105 min] – In the hazy aftermath of an unimaginable loss, Sarah and Phil come unhinged, recklessly ignoring the repercussions. Phil starts to lose sight of his morals; Sarah takes off on a potentially disastrous journey, falling deeper into her own fever dream. Starring Olivia Wilde, Luke Wilson, John Leguizamo, Ty Simpkins, Giovanni Ribisi, Juno Temple, and Elisabeth Moss [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 100% • Audience – 70%

My review:

Despite what the Tomatometer and only other 17 critics who gave Meadowland a pass are saying, this film is pretty much a waste of time. The screenplay is an absolute travesty littered with bizarre character motivations, ugly dialogue, and underutilized side characters that bring nothing to the story. The directors and actors did the best with what they were given, but even they couldn’t drag this story out of the mud. Meadowland tries very hard to bring depth to its themes through sadness porn, but it only fails miserably thanks in part to the little support given to justify the extremes it presents. SKIP IT!

Truth (James Vanderbilt) [Limited] Rated R [121 min] – Newsroom drama detailing the 2004 CBS 60 Minutes report investigating then-President George W. Bush’s military service, and the subsequent firestorm of criticism that cost anchor Dan Rather and producer Mary Mapes their careers. Starring Cate Blanchett, Robert Redford, Dennis Quaid, and Elisabeth Moss [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 64% • Audience – 48%

Their reviews:

“Truth is fascinating and often exciting. But the film lacks the qualities of great drama that make it feel like it’s unfolding right in front of the audience.” – Noel Murray (AV Club)

“While it gives Robert Redford the opportunity to chew on scenery in the role of Rather, much of the movie cedes control to Cate Blachett, who turns Mapes into a brazen hero undone by the courage of her convictions.” – Eric Kohn (indieWIRE)

My take:

From what it seems, Cate Blanchett has given yet another awards caliber performance, but even she can’t hold up the entire weight of the movie on her shoulders. The story of Truth is no doubt fascinating and the trailer sells the movie well, so it’s sad to see that Truth is not at the level it wants to be. RENT IT!

Crimson Peak seems like the sure-fire winner that has the most to lose this weekend. It has a fun, haunted house vibe with a strong cast and spooky visuals perfect for Halloween. But don’t discount Goosebumps. Crimson Peak is rated R whereas Goosebumps PG. There hasn’t be a strong kid-friendly live action movie in quite some time, and Goosebumps has a delicious recipe for kids to enjoy. I’m sure there will be positive word of mouth and nostalgia fueling its first weekend out.

And then there’s Bridge of Spies, who bolsters a grand Tom Hanks performance. Along with its subject matter, Bridge of Spies makes a case to be a choice Oscar contender, which could draw out the elder demographics. But with that in mind it also limits the interest of potential of younger audiences.

So as it stands, I believe the victor for this weekend will be:

Winner: Goosebumps

What will you be watching this weekend? What did you think of the current releases? Tell us in the comment section below.

Movie synopses courtesy of IMDb.com and Tomatometer Scores from Rotten Tomatoes

Netflix Streaming Report: Jane the Virgin Season 1, The Lazarus Effect, and More

Posted on October 15, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Welcome to your Netflix Streaming Report for October 15, 2015. After the long week you deserve a relaxing staycation with a bowl of popcorn, a bucket of ice cream, and only your Netflix queue to judge you. This past week, Netflix Watch Instant has been kind enough to supply us with Jane the Virgin Season 1, The Lazarus Effect, Sword Art Online II, and more.

Source: Forever Young Adult

Jane the Virgin Season 1 (Jennie Snyder Urman) Rated TV-14 [43 min] – Jane is a 23 year old hard-working, religious Latina woman, whose family tradition and vow to save her virginity until marriage to a long time boyfriend and detective, is shattered when her doctor mistakenly artificially inseminates her during a checkup. And to make matters worse, the biological donor is a married man, a former playboy, and cancer survivor who is not only the new owner of the hotel where Jane works, but was also her former teenage crush. Starring Gina Rodriguez, Andrea Navedo, Yael Grobglas, Justin Baldoni, Ivonne Coll, Brett Dier, Jaime Camil, and Anthony Mendez

The CW has found a perfect harmony of drama and comedy for its young adult driven audience with Jane the Virgin. There’s a new wave of soap-y, guilty pleasure series floating around these days that get little love because of their content, when in actuality they’re fairly well done and highly addictive. It’s like Degrassi: The Next Generation for more mature audiences.

(Watch it now)

Source: The Lazarus Effect Official Movie Tumblr

The Lazarus Effect (David Gelb) Rated PG-13 [83 min] – A group of medical students discover a way to bring dead patients back to life. Starring Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass, Evan Peters, and Sarah Bolger

I’m only listing The Lazarus Effect because you might recognize it from its marketing efforts earlier this year when it released. And to that affect, I would advise you to avoid this movie at all costs. Even if it sparked just a minuscule amount of interest, don’t do it. This movie is basic to the nth degree, they also shortened the title of it to Lazarus, most likely to throw you off to think it’s something different.

(Watch it now – if you absolutely have to)

Also newly available on Netflix streaming this week:

The Christmas Card
C.I.D. (Season 1)
Dinotopia: The Miniseries
Katt Williams: The Pimp Chronicles: Pt. 1
Road (2014)
Sin Senos no Hay Paraíso (Season 1)
The Sitter (2007)
Skins (Vol. 7)
Pentatonix: On My Way Home
Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me
Durarara!!
The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show (Season 1)
Sword Art Online II

What will you be watching this weekend?

Look forward to more new titles from the Netflix Streaming Report every Thursday on TTRC.

All plot synopses courtesy of IMDb.com

Image Source: Post Gazette

Now Available to Own: Mad Men, Tomorrowland, Aladdin, Dope, and More

Posted on October 13, 2015 by Tyler Schirado

Brace your bank accounts, it’s time to see what’s Now Available to Own for the week of October 13, 2015. Every Tuesday we run down new movie, television, and video game releases that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home, as well as some slick deals that can save you some coin. New on shelves this week are Tomorrowland, Mad Men: The Final Season Part 2, Aladdin, The Gallows, and more.

*Note: Originally I had said that Mike Tyson Mysteries (Season 1) and The Wolfpack came out this week, nope. They release on October 20, 2015.

Source: Giphy

Movies on Blu-ray

Tomorrowland (Brad Bird) Rated PG [130 min] – Bound by a shared destiny, a teen bursting with scientific curiosity and a former boy-genius inventor embark on a mission to unearth the secrets of a place somewhere in time and space that exists in their collective memory. Starring George Clooney, Britt Robertson, Hugh Laurie, and Raffey Cassidy [Watch the trailer]

Tomorrowland is the cinematic equivalent to the Disney ride It’s a Small World. Both vibrant and chock-full of wonder and promise, the further into them you go the more likely you’ll want out. There’s many strong themes layered within each, but the bad outweighs the positive messages, making them unmemorable. As soon as Tomorrowland drops you into its titular destination and we meet Hugh Laurie, the film loses its way and becomes a mixed bag of blockbuster action and bloated, unjustified villainry.

Special features include:

Remembering the Future: A Personal Journey Through Tomorrowland with Brad Bird – Discover everything there is to know about the making of Tomorrowland through Director Brad Bird’s perspective.
Casting Tomorrowland – Join Brad Bird, Damon Lindelof, George Clooney, Hugh Laurie, Britt Robertson, and Raffey Cassidy as they discuss the making of Tomorrowland.
A Great Big Beautiful Scoring Session – Famed composer Michael Giacchino invites Disney legend, Richard Sherman to join him in an informal visit to the Tomorrowland scoring stage, told through the personal lens of Michael’s brother, documentarian Anthony Giacchino.
The World of Tomorrow Science Hour – Hosted By Futurologist David Nix (Blu-ray and DMA Exclusive) – Believe it or not but Nix used to host a children’s television program about science. Now watch the recently discover outtakes from the show.
Animated Short: The Origins of Plus Ultra – An animated story of how Tomorrowland came to be.
Brad Bird Production Diaries
Blast from the Past Commercial – Go back in time and watch this original commercial for the Blast from the Past store.
Deleted Scenes with Filmmaker Intro
4 Easter Eggs

Dope (Rick Famuyiwa) Rated R [103 min] – Life changes for Malcolm, a geek who’s surviving life in a tough neighborhood, after a chance invitation to an underground party leads him and his friends into a Los Angeles adventure. Starring Shameik Moore, Tony Revolori, Kiersey Clemons, and Kimberly Elise

Pressured by a white man of power, our hero must enlist the help of his two socially awkward friends to embark on a journey through an industry looked down upon by society in order to save himself and graduate high school in one piece. But enough about 2004’s The Girl Next Door, Dope is this year’s soap box movie that speaks volumes by commenting on society and the way we assume agendas based on appearances and where we come from. Basically, never judge a book by its cover. Dope is really smart and funny, but at times the focus is lost and struggles to get back on track.

Special features include:

Dope Is Different – The cast and crew discuss the film’s central characters and themes of being unique and authentic.
Dope Music – Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Rick Fumuyiwa and others delve into the essential role old-school rap and punk rock tracks play in the film.

Aladdin (Ron Clements and John Musker) Rated G [90 min] – When a street urchin vies for the love of a beautiful princess, he uses a genie’s magic power to make himself off as a prince in order to marry her. Starring Scott Weinger, Robin Williams, Linda Larkin

For the first time on Blu-ray, Aladdin makes its debut in a spectacular way. It’s always been a pretty colorful movie, full of reds and blues, and they just pop with this new hi-def transition. Along with the crispness of the format, the movie remains as sharp and witty as you remember it. The real catch is the slew of special features, which peak with Robin Williams outtakes.

Special features include:

The Genie Outtakes – Robin Williams’ Genie outtakes are magically brought to life.
Genie 101 – Our host, Scott Weinger (the voice of Aladdin), takes us through the various transformattions of the famous (and formerly famous) celebrity references of the Genie.
Ron & John: You Ain’t Never Had a Friend Like Me – Directors John Musker & Ron Clements sit down and discuss the experiences of their long-running partnership together at Disney.
Aladdin: Creating Broadway Magic – Join host Darren Criss as we take “a new fantastic point of view” at the story of how Aladdin went from a classic Disney animated film to become Broadway’s smash hit with Composer Alan Menken and others.
Unboxing Aladdin – Our host, Joey Bragg from Disney Channel’s Liv & Maddy, explore the Easter eggs and hidden secrets of Aladdin in this unboxing video.
Classic Bonus – ALL classic bonus from the original DVD release, including:
- Deleted Song / “Proud Of Your Boy” (Original Demo Recording)
- Deleted Song / “You Can Count On Me”
- Deleted Song / “Humiliate The Boy”
- Deleted Song / “Why Me”
- Deleted Scene / “Aladdin & Jasmine’s First Meeting”
- Deleted Scene / “Aladdin in the Lap of Luxury”
- And more!

San Andreas (Brad Peyton) Rated PG-13 [114 min] – In the aftermath of a massive earthquake in California, a rescue-chopper pilot makes a dangerous journey across the state in order to rescue his estranged daughter. Starring Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario, and Colton Haynes [Watch the Trailer]

Nothing could prepare us for the real life devastation that would befall upon the U.S. if the entire state of California were to crumble into the Pacific Ocean, but you can brace yourself for the lunacy and pure cheeseball one-liners embedded within San Andreas. If it weren’t for the Rock’s Rockyness there would be little enjoyment to be found. I can’t even imagine the pleasure the special effects team found in themselves by killing millions of people digitally. But I’m sure their sick grins pail in comparison to execs’ who greenlit this disastrous disaster piece.

Special features include:

Audio Commentary by Director Brad Peyton
San Andreas: The Real Fault Line
Dwayne Johnson to the Rescue
Scoring the Quake
Deleted Scenes with optional commentary by Director Brad Peyton
Gag Reel
Stunt Reel

The Gallows (Travis Cluff and Chris Lofing) Rated R [81 min] – 20 years after a horrific accident during a small town school play, students at the school resurrect the failed show in a misguided attempt to honor the anniversary of the tragedy – but soon discover that some things are better left alone. Starring Reese Mishler, Pfeifer Brown, Cassidy Gifford, and Ryan Shoos

I missed the release of The Gallows this summer due to Comic-Con, but I had high hopes after seeing the first preview of the film at WonderCon. Sadly, the excitement of the teaser faded quickly as headlines started pouring in about its quality. I try to give all horror movies a chance as many mainstream critics tend to be unjust toward genre movies. The Gallows is a mid-level horror that plays out almost entirely in real time and invites some OK scares. Half of the characters are unlikable and the ending is mediocre. I’d give it a go on Netflix whenever it comes out.

Special features includes:

The Gallows: The Original Version
The Gallows: Surviving the Noose
Charlie: Every School Has Its Spirit
Deleted Scenes
Gag Reel
Concept, Original Version and Theatrical Trailers
Dolby Atmos

The Little Death (Josh Lawson) Rated PG-13 [96 min] – The secret lives of five suburban couples living in Sydney reveal both the fetishes and the repercussions that come with sharing them. Starring Bojana Novakovic, Damon Herriman, and Josh Lawson

I’m honestly surprised this has a PG-13 rating and then again I’m not. The Little Death plays itself too safe and isn’t the raunchy sex comedy it desperately wants and needs to be. Each story within this interwoven neighborhood of sexual deviants is playful, but as a whole the stories don’t come together well enough to create a satisfying movie. It is widely unique, but feels more like an afterthought rather than a complete film.

No special feature included.

Team America: World Police (Trey Parker) Rated R [98 min] – Popular Broadway actor Gary Johnston is recruited by the elite counter-terrorism organization Team America: World Police. As the world begins to crumble around him, he must battle with terrorists, celebrities and falling in love. Starring Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Elle Russ

It’s hard to find a reason why I need to justify the sanctity of Team America: World Police. There’s puppet sex, Matt Damon, and incredible acting. Could you ask for anything more?

No special feature included.

Matchstick Men (Ridley Scott) Rated PG-13 [116 min] – A phobic con artist and his protégé are on the verge of pulling off a lucrative swindle when the former’s teenage daughter arrives unexpectedly. Starring Nicolas Cage, Alison Lohman, and Sam Rockwell

They don’t make Nic Cage movies like they use to. One of the classier Cage movies that reeks of Cage-ness, Matchstick Men is a dazzling look into the world of con artists and parenting. It’s a whirlwind of plots that mesh well together to form a unique and entertaining piece of cinema.

Special features include:

Tricks of the Trade: Making Matchstick Men – Follow the Director through an intimate day-to-day account of the filmmaking process
Part I: Preproduction
Part II: Production
Part III: Postproduction
Commentary by Director / Producer Ridley Scott, Writer Nicholas Griffin and Writer / Producer Ted Griffin

Witness (Peter Weir) Rated R [112 min] – A young Amish boy is sole witness to a murder; policeman John Book goes into hiding in Amish country to protect him until the trial. Starring Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis, and Lukas Haas

Fresh off the original Star Wars trilogy, as well as his second stint as Indiana Jones, Harrison Ford takes it down a few pegs to deliver a simpler story during a simpler time. Witness is thrilling and not of this time. It won the Oscar for Best Editing and Best Writing/Screenplay back in 1986, and it would be hard to imagine a studio attempting to make a film of its nature today. But somehow the film hasn’t shown it’s age too much and still works well.

No special feature included.

Kiss the Girls (Gary Fleder) Rated R [115 min] – Police hunting for a serial killer are helped when a victim manages to escape for the first time. Starring Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, and Cary Elwes

The content of Kiss the Girls almost sounds too close to some of the content we’re seeing in many of the procedurals or crime dramas of today. With the caliber of Morgan Freeman at the forefront, Kiss the Girls stands tall. However the actor isn’t entirely able to support the picture all on his own as it buckles under the weight of its empty antagonist.

No special feature included.

Along Came a Spider (Lee Tamahori) Rated R [104 min] – A congressman’s daughter under Secret Service protection is kidnapped from a private school by an insider who calls Det. Alex Cross, sucking him into the case even though he’s recovering from the loss of his partner. Starring Morgan Freeman, Michael Wincott, and Monica Potter

Bordering on the edge of parody, Along Came a Spider is the follow up to Kiss the Girls with Det. Alex Cross (Freeman). It plays out almost as if it were a fake trailer you’d see within a movie. I don’t think the director really had a great handle on the tone or content to really make this as gripping as the original novel intended it to be.

No special feature included.

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This is the Box Office Battlefield:

In summation:

Winner: The Martian

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Also newly available on Netflix streaming this week:

Leaving Netflix in November 2015:

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Without further ado, let’s begin:

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BONUS:

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And here’s an extensive list of other horror movies on Netflix streaming you may be interested in:

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Movies on Blu-ray

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Available on 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 8

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD November 17

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 15

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD November 24

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 8

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 1

Available on Criterion Blu-ray January 19

Available on DVD and Digital HD December 15

Available on DVD and Digital HD December 1

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Winner: Goosebumps

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Also newly available on Netflix streaming this week:

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Movies on Blu-ray

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