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

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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.

Jane the Virgin Season 1

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)

The Lazarus Effect Olivia Wilde

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.

Netflix Streaming Report Turn The Right Corner

All plot synopses courtesy of IMDb.com

Image Source: Post Gazette

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

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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.

Aladdin Prince Ali

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.

Continue Reading for TV Releases –>>

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The Stars Align in the HAIL, CAESAR! Teaser Trailer [100 Screenshots]

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With the first Hail, Caesar! teaser trailer officially released, the award-winning Coen brothers are officially back. Joel and Ethan Coen have kept audiences entertained as credited screenwriters for both Angelina Jolie’s Unbroken and Steven Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies, and now the writer-directors are tackling 1950’s Hollywood. All the glitz and the glam is there, with each shot featuring dazzling costumes, bright sets, and the promise of some incredible song and dance numbers.

After Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin) has a brief conversation in a confessional, the Hail, Caesar! teaser takes flight. The music is loud, the cinematography is bright, and every scene oozes with one big name star after another. From Frances McDormand (Fargo; Burn After Reading), who is no stranger to working with the Coens, to Tilda Swinton (Snowpiercer; Only Lovers Left Alive) and Ralph Fiennes (The Grand Budapest Hotel; Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows), I’m completely geeking over how much talent is in this film. Even the 21 Jump Street duo Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill pop up. The trailer is cheeky, fun, and nostalgic for the uproarious movies of the ’50s.

The short teaser ends with the question, “Wondering what’s going on?” posed by one of the smoking men presumably holding Baird Whitlock (George Clooney). Is this man part of “The Future”? Who or what is “The Future”? Based on what I’ve seen in this tease, Hail, Caesar! is either going to be a true delight or a flop for biting off more than it can chew. How will it carry the plot without getting too swept up in its own fabulousness and wit? Plus, with a cast this lavishly star-studded, will we get true character development or become lost trying to keep up? The Coen Brothers are expert storytellers and have an impressive number of successful films under their belt – see A Serious Man, The Big Lebowski, and No Country for Old Men. Let’s hope this one is no different.

Another note of interest is the release date. If it’s critically successful, and I really think it could be, it would have Oscars written all over it. However, the brothers Coen have elected to surpass the awards season hoopla with a February release, meaning Hail, Caesar! would only be eligible for the Academy Awards in 2017. If the film truly delivers, it could have a year like The Grand Budapest Hotel, whose critical momentum carried it from March all the way to the Oscars – a rare feat. But as far as awards go, the Coen brothers, like the honey badger, don’t care.

(Click on any thumbnail to open the image gallery)

Here’s the official plot synopsis for Hail, Caesar! courtesy of Sony Pictures:

Hail, Caesar! follows a single day in the life of a studio fixer who is presented with plenty of problems to fix.

Directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, Hail, Caesar! stars Josh Brolin, George Clooney, Alden Ehrenreich, Ralph Fiennes, Jonah Hill, Scarlett Johansson, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, and Channing Tatum. The movie is set to hit theaters on February 5, 2016.

Source: Sony Pictures

Coming Soon to Blu-Ray and DVD: Game of Thrones Season 5, Fear the Walking Dead, and More

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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 10, 2015 we have Game of Thrones Season 5, Fear the Walking Dead, Mistress America, and more. Find out when they’ll be out and what special features movie fans can expect below.

Game of Thrones Season 5 Blu-ray Box Cover Art

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

Game of Thrones Season 5 (David Benioff and D. B. Weiss) Rated TV-MA [55 min] – The War of the Five Kings, once thought to be drawing to a close, is instead entering a new and more chaotic phase. Westeros is on the brink of collapse, and many are seizing what they can while the realm implodes, like a corpse making a feast for crows. Starring Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Aidan Gillen, Iain Glen, Kit Harington, Maisie Williams, Isaac Hempstead Wright, Sophie Turner, Jack Gleeson, Alfie Allen, Rory McCann, Charles Dance, Jerome Flynn, Conleth Hill, John Bradley, Gwendoline Christie, Stephen Dillane, Carice van Houten, Liam Cunningham, Sibel Kekilli, Rose Leslie, Natalie Dormer, Michael McElhatton, Iwan Rheon, and Pedro Pascal

Special features include:

  • Audio Commentaries – Twelve audio commentaries with cast and crew including David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Kit Harington, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Iain Glen, Maisie Williams, Natalie Dormer, Gwendoline Christie and more.
  • Anatomy of an Episode: Mother’s Mercy – Details about the creation of “Mother’s Mercy,” from the writing table all the way through to visual effects
  • The Real History Behind Game of Thrones – In a two-part series, historians and George R.R. Martin discuss the era known as “The Wars of the Roses” and other historical events that served as inspiration for his novels
  • Deleted Scenes – 4 deleted scenes
  • A Day in the Life – Inside look at the production process of Season 5
  • New Characters/New Locations – Explore the new societies, cultures and locations from Season 5
  • The Dance of Dragons – An in-depth look at the story behind the Targaryen civil war (BD exclusive)
  • In-Episode Guide – Provides background information about on-screen characters, locations, and relevant histories (BD exclusive)
  • Histories and Lore – Explore the mythology of Westeros and Essos from character perspectives in 14 history pieces with feature illustrations (BD exclusive)

Fear the Walking Dead Season 1 Blu-ray Box Cover Art

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

Fear the Walking Dead (Dave Erickson and Robert Kirkman) Rated TV-MA [43 min] – What did the world look like as it was transforming into the horrifying apocalypse depicted in “The Walking Dead”? This spin-off set in Los Angeles, following new characters as they face the beginning of the end of the world, will answer that question. Starring Kim Dickens, Cliff Curtis, Frank Dillane, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Mercedes Mason, Lorenzo James Henrie, and Rubén Blades

Special features include:

  • A Look at the Series
  • Character Bios

We Are Your Friends DVD Box Cover Art

Available on DVD and Digital HD October 27

We Are Your Friends (Max Joseph) Rated R [96 min] – Caught between a forbidden romance and the expectations of his friends, aspiring DJ Cole Carter attempts to find the path in life that leads to fame and fortune.Starring Zac Efron, Wes Bentley, Emily Ratajkowski, and Jonny Weston

Special features include:

  • How Zac Efron Learned to DJ

Minions Blu-ray Box Cover Art

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

Minions (Kyle Balda and Pierre Coffin) Rated PG [91 min] – Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by Scarlett Overkill, a super-villain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the world. Starring Sandra Bullock, Jon Hamm, and Michael Keaton

Special features include:

  • Three All New Original Mini-Movies:
    • Cro Minion
    • Competition
    • Binky Nelson Unpacified
  • Deleted Scene – Me, Myself, and Stuart
  • Around the World Interactive Map – Explore the world of the Minions with this interactive map featuring a collection of games, trivia, featurettes, storyboards, and more all themed to movie locations.
  • Behind the Goggles – The Illumination Story of the Minions – Get a “behind the googles” look at the history and evolution of everyone’s favorite yellow henchmen.
  • Illumination MacGuff Animation – Go behind the scenes and hear about the challenges and excitement behind the Minion characters and bringing them alive through animation in the movie
  • Lighting, Layout, and Effects – A look at the ways in which layout and lighting plays a big role in the emotion and motivation in the movie. Also see the ways in which they try to keep the 60’s vintage look and the challenges they face with very technical shots, where one shot can take weeks.
  • Jingle Bells Minion Style – This holiday favorite is brought to life in a merry-Minion way. Now you get to sing along to the beloved video that was the most shared piece of content on Facebook in 2014.
  • The Secret Life of Pets Theatrical Trailer

Mistress America Blu-ray Box Cover Art

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

Mistress America (Noah Baumbach) [Limited] Rated R [84 min] – A lonely college freshman’s life is turned upside down by her impetuous, adventurous soon-to-be stepsister. Starring Greta Gerwig, Lola Kirke, Seth Barrish, and Juliet Brett

Special features include:

  • Featurettes
    • Story
    • Brooke
    • Tracy

Shaun the Sheep Blu-ray Box Cover Art

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

Shaun the Sheep Movie (Mark Burton and Richard Starzak) Rated PG [85 min] – When Shaun decides to take the day off and have some fun, he gets a little more action than he bargained for. A mix up with the Farmer, a caravan and a very steep hill lead them all to the Big City and it’s up to Shaun and the flock to return everyone safely to the green grass of home. Starring Justin Fletcher, John Sparkes, Omid Djalili, and Richard Webber

Special features include:

  • Making the Shaun Movie” Featurette
  • “Meet the Characters” Featurette
  • “Join Shaun Behind the Scenes” Featurette
  • “Meet the Crew” Featurette
  • Parody Poster Gallery

Shaun the Sheep Season 1 DVD Box Cover Art

Available on DVD and Digital HD November 10

Shaun the Sheep (Nick Park) [7 min] – Shaun is a sheep who doesn’t follow the flock – in fact, he leads them into all sorts of scrapes and scraps, turning peace in the valley into mayhem in the meadow. Shaun and his pals run rings around their poor sheepdog Bitzer, as he tries to stop the Farmer finding out what’s going on behind his back. Every day brings a new adventure for Shaun. Starring John Sparkes, Justin Fletcher, and  Richard Webber

Ray Donovan Season 3 Blu-ray Box Cover Art

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD December 29

Ray Donovan Season 3 (Ann Biderman) Rated TV-MA [60 min] – Ray Donovan, a professional “fixer” for the rich and famous in LA, can make anyone’s problems disappear except those created by his own family. Starring Liev Schreiber, Paula Malcomson, and Devon Bagby

Special features include:

  • “The Affair” Season One, Episodes 1 & 2
  • “Billions” Season One, Episode 1

The X-Files The Complete Series Blu-ray Box Cover Art

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

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

Special features include:

  • Season One
    • Series Intro by Frank Spotnitz
    • Chris Carter Talks About Season 1
    • Deleted Scenes
    • International Clips
    • Deep Throat: Audio Commentary by Chris Carter
    • Erlenmeyer Flask: Audio Commentary by R.W. Goodwin
    • Special Effects Clip From Fallen Angel
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season 1”
  • Season Two
    • Deleted Scenes
    • Chris Carter Talks About Season 2
    • Humbug
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Two”
    • Duane Barry: Audio Commentary by Chris Carter
    • End Games: Audio Commentary by Frank Spotnitz
    • Anasazi: Audio Commentary by R.W. Goodwin
  • Season Three
    • Deleted Scenes (w/optional commentary by Chris Carter)
    • Chris Carter Talks About Season 3
    • International Clips
    • Special Effects with Commentary by Mat Beck
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Three”
    • Threads of Mythology: Abduction
    • Talitha Cuma: Audio Commentary by R.W. Goodwin
  • Season Four
    • Deleted Scenes
    • Extended Scenes
    • Special Effects with Commentary by Paul Rabwin
    • Deleted Scenes (w/optional commentary by Chris Carter)
    • Tunguska – Interview With Chris Carter
    • Paper Hearts – Interview with Vince Gilligan
    • Memento Mori: Audio Commentary by Rob Bowman
    • Introduction to Memento Mori by Chris Carter and Frank Spotnitz
    • Max: Audio Commentary by Kim Manners
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Four”
  • Season Five
    • International Clips
    • Deleted Scenes (w/optional commentary by Chris Carter)
    • Special Effects with Commentary by Paul Rabwin
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Five”
    • Threads of Mythology: Black Oil
    • FX Featurette
    • Introduction to The Post-Modern Prometheus by Chris Carter and Frank Spotnitz
    • Patient X: Audio Commentary by Kim Manners
    • The Red and the Black: Audio Commentary by Chris Carter
    • The Post Modern Prometheus: Audio Commentary by Chris Carter
    • The Pine Bluff Variant: Audio Commentary by John Shiban
  • Season Six
    • Special Effects with Commentary by Paul Rabwin
    • Deleted Scenes (w/optional commentary by Frank Spotnitz)
    • International Clips
    • Two Fathers: Audio Commentary by Kim Manners
    • One Son: Audio Commentary by Frank Spotnitz
    • Triangle: Audio Commentary by Chris Carter
    • Introduction to Milagro by Chris Carter and Frank Spotnitz
    • X–Files Profiles: Cigarette-Smoking Man
    • Featurette on Season Six
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Six”
  • Season Seven
    • Deleted scenes (w/optional commentary by Chris Carter)
    • Special effects sequences with commentary by Paul Rabwin
    • International Clips
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Seven” Behind-the-Scenes featurette
    • X–Files Profiles: A.D. Skinner and Samantha Mulder
    • Closure: Audio Commentary by Kim Manners
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Seven”
  • Season Eight
    • Special Effects by Mat Beck with Commentary by Paul Rabwin
    • International Clips
    • Deleted scenes (w/optional commentary by Frank Spotnitz and John Shiban)
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Eight”
    • Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Chris Carter
    • Threads of Mythology: Colonization
    • X–Files Profiles
    • Within: Commentary by Kim Manners and Robert Patrick
    • Deadalive: Commentary by Frank Spotnitz
    • Vienen: Commentary by Rod Hardy
  • Season Nine
    • Deleted scenes (w/optional commentary by Frank Spotnitz)
    • Special Effects by Mat Beck with Commentary by Paul Rabwin
    • International Clips
    • Audio Commentary by Chris Carter, Vince Gilligan, John Shiban, Frank Spotnitz, Kim Manners
    • Documentary: “The Truth About Season Nine”
    • “The Making of ‘The Truth’”
    • “Secrets of The X–Files”
    •  “Tribute to The X–Files”
    • Threads of Mythology: Super Soldiers
    • X–Files Profiles
    • Reflections on the Truth Featurette
    • Wonder Con Panel

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

Coming Soon to Blu-ray and DVD

Click here for more home video announcements

Box Office Battlefield: Pan, Victoria, and The Final Girls

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Every week, movie studios select candidates to enter the glorious battlefield for your hard-earned dollars. The weekend warriors of October 9, 2015 includes Pan, Victoria, The Final Girls, and Knock Knock. 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, Maaaattt Daamon took audiences on a wild ride of survival on the lonely red planet. With no real competition, The Martian moon-walked away with $54.3 million domestically, leaving everything in its red dust. This weekend sees the retelling of the origins of Peter Pan along with the expansion of The Walk into theaters. There are also a handful of limited releases that have been on my radar. Who will reign supreme and who will be the codfish? This is the Box Office Battlefield:

peter-pan-2015-movie-title-logo

Pan (Joe Wright) Rated PG [111 min] – 12-year-old orphan Peter is spirited away to the magical world of Neverland, where he finds both fun and dangers, and ultimately discovers his destiny — to become the hero who will be forever known as Peter Pan Starring Levi Miller, Hugh Jackman, Garrett Hedlund, and Rooney Mara [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 24% • Audience – 52%

My review:

Never have I giggled in delight so much for one of the most mind-boggling entrances to a villain I’ve ever seen. Hugh Jackman’s Blackbeard is so deliciously wrong for this Peter Pan origin story, but you can’t look away. For the rest of the cast, I though Levi Miller does a thorough enough job as the young Peter, however everyone else feels wildly miscast. I’m not sure what Garrett Hedlund’s accent for Hook is, but it’s atrocious. And of course Tiger Lily is played by the incredibly talented and white-skinned Rooney Mara. Pan is pure lunacy that is too caught up trying to make the origin story of Peter Pan work. The nods to the character are eye-rolling, Neverland is unimaginative, and the final action scene is awfully silly. This makes Hook look like an Oscar contender. WAIT FOR IT ON NETFLIX SO YOU CAN HAVE A GOOD LAUGH!!!

Victoria 2015 Movie Title Logo

Victoria (Sebastian Schipper) [Limited] Unrated [138 min] – While on holiday in Berlin, a young woman finds her flirtation with a local guy turn potentially deadly as their night out with his friends reveals its secret: the four men owe someone a dangerous favor that requires repaying that evening. Starring Laia Costa, Frederick Lau, Franz Rogowski, and Burak Yigit [Watch the Trailer]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 77% • Audience – 86%

My review:

Long takes are not for the faint of heart. They take a lot of patience and planning to ensure every detail is nailed down. Birdman was shot over the course of 30 days or so and pieces of film were edited together to give the illusion of one long take. Victoria, however, was shot in one long take – they got it in their third attempt. And not only was it shot in one take, but it’s also over two hours long and takes place over multiple locations throughout Berlin. It’s quite impressive and highly commendable, but that doesn’t exactly mean it is without flaws. Edited films have the benefit of trimming down fat and making sure pacing is right for the story.

As much as I enjoyed marveling in awe at how Victoria was made, there are a handful of times where the movie could have been cut down. On the other side of the coin, the single take transports you alongside the characters as if you’re right there in the nitty-gritty of the action. The movie feels personable with our two leads where where the camera lingers long enough without movement that the experience feels very intimate. Sadly the rest of the cast isn’t fleshed out enough to be developed because we cannot cut to what they’re doing. But overall, Victoria is a feat to behold. MATINEE IT!

The Final Girls 2015 Movie Title Logo

The Final Girls (Todd Strauss-Schulson) [Limited] Rated PG-13 [88 min] – A young woman grieving the loss of her mother, a famous scream queen from the 1980s, finds herself pulled into the world of her mom’s most famous movie. Reunited, the women must fight off the film’s maniacal killer. Starring Taissa Farmiga, Malin Akerman, Adam DeVine, and Thomas Middleditch [Watch the Trailer]

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

Their reviews:

“There’s plenty to like in Todd Strauss-Schulson’s THE FINAL GIRLS, a perky meta homage to slashers of the ’70s and ’80s.” – Meredith Borders (Birth.Movies.Death.)

“A funny, creative, fast-paced, and well-shot horror satire. They do exist.” – Scott Weinberg (TheHorrorShow)

My take:

Ever since Scream, meta horror has become quite the unsung hero of horror. When things start to turn stale we have the likes of Cabin in the Woods, Tucker and Dale vs. Evil, and even Scary Movie to thank for shedding some light on tropes horror fans are getting tired of. Unlike You’re Next, that twists the final girl stereotype into a new age, The Final Girls is far more aware of itself as a horror movie because its characters get sucked into one. It looks like a lot of fun and the cast is pretty solid. I look forward to this when it hits theaters near me. MATINEE IT!

Knock Knock 2015 Movie Title Logo

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]

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 33% • Audience – 29%

Their reviews:

“Maybe Knock Knock is just one long, sick joke, skillfully told by a filmmaker who’s always spiked his horror with black humor, just never this effectively.” – A..A Dowd (The AV Club)
“Takes a titillating setup and turns it into hot, wet garbage that doesn’t even work as exploitation, much less as psychological horror or social commentary. ” – Eric D. Snider (GeekNation)

My take:

I want to believe that Knock Knock isn’t as bad as the critics are slamming it for because I think the premise is cleverly unusual. So I remain cautiously optimistic, hoping that Eli Roth can dish something out more energetic and vibrant like Cabin Fever and Hostel rather than The Green Inferno. RENT IT!

No one asked for a Peter Pan origin story, and the marketing is so terrible that I think it’s going to turn away parents. The Walk is getting a wide release in 2D, but last weekend it didn’t fair that well in IMAX 3D to begin with. I don’t think there’s enough enthusiasm for a man that people have hardly heard about. Which is unfortunate because The Walk has a lot to offer. The rest of this weeks releases are all limited and hardly have enough screens to compete with the wide releases. All that’s left is the tremendous love for The Martian. Suffice it to say, Matt Damon still has the charisma that people love and the story is too captivating not to enjoy. 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: The Flash Season 1, Arrow Season 3, AHS: Freakshow, and More

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Welcome to your Netflix Streaming Report for October 8, 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 The Flash Season 1, Arrow Season 3, iZombie Season 1, AHS: Freakshow, and more.

the flash seaosn 1 barry allen

Source: Perez Hilton

The Flash Season 1 (Greg Berlanti, Geoff Johns, and Andrew Kreisberg) Rated TV-PG [43 min] – Barry Allen wakes up 9 months after he was struck by lightning and discovers that the bolt gave him the power of super speed. With his new team and powers, Barry becomes “The Flash” and fights crime in Central City. Starring Grant Gustin, Candice Patton, Danielle Panabaker, Carlos Valdes, Tom Cavangh, and Jesse L. Martin

This is a series that demands your attention. You may think that The Flash is just a throwaway character based on his abilities, but there’s more to him than meets the eye. And more to this show as well. There’s a clever balance of comic wit, fun action, and colorful characters that makes The Flash a very formidable and one of the best superhero series ever created. It’s so detailed in developing the character that there just isn’t enough time spent with the scarlet speedster that the second season hasn’t come soon enough!

(Watch it now)

Arrow Season 3

Source: Hypable

Arrow Season 3 (Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim, and Andrew Kreisberg) –  Spoiled billionaire playboy Oliver Queen is missing and presumed dead when his yacht is lost at sea. He returns five years later a changed man, determined to clean up the city as a hooded vigilante armed with a bow. Starring Stephen Amell, Katie Cassidy, and David Ramsey

Despite a slow, almost uninteresting first season, Arrow has continually progressed to become a series that has rewarded patience. The third season presents a more transitional period for Oliver that sets up big change our heroes, and right now, having all three seasons on Netflix, is the best time to catch up!

(Watch it now)

izombie live moore

Source: WeHeartIt

iZombie Season 1 (Diane Ruggiero and Rob Thomas) Rated TV-14 [42 min] – A medical resident finds that being a zombie has its perks, which she uses to assist the police. Starring Rose McIver, Malcolm Goodwin, Rahul Kohli, Robert Buckley, and Blaine DeBeers

I was surprised how digestible iZombie actually is when I checked out the first few episodes. It’s playful and silly, but in a good way that works in the strange world it has created for itself.

(Watch it now)

twisty the clown american horror story freak show

Source: VH1

American Horror: Story: Freak Show (Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk) Rated TV-MA [43 min] – An anthology series that centers on different characters and locations, including a haunted house, an insane asylum, a witch coven and a freak show. Starring Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Michael Chiklis, Frances Conroy, Denis O’Hare, Emma Roberts, Finn Wittrock, Angela Bassett, and Kathy Bates

I have yet to see Freak Show, but I have not heard any positives toward this season. It has all the right elements, so I look forward to seeing this train wreck and why it broke many fans.

(Watch it now)

Also newly available on Netflix streaming this week:

  • American Heist
  • Strangerland
  • Cheatin’
  • Legends Season 1
  • Supernatural Season 10
  • Last Man Standing Season 4
  • The Originals Season 2
  • The Stranger
  • Tremors 5: Bloodline
  • The Otherworld
  • Team Hot Wheels: Build the Epic Race
  • Man from Reno
  • A Sinner in Mecca
  • Alpha and Omega: Family Vacation
  • Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal
  • Reign Season 2
  • The Vampire Diaries Season 6

What will you be watching this weekend?

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

Netflix Streaming Report Turn The Right Corner

All plot synopses courtesy of IMDb.com

Image Source: IGN

Now Available to Own: Magic Mike XXL, Insidious 3, The Leftovers, and More

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Brace your bank accounts, it’s time to see what’s Now Available to Own for the week of October 6, 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 Magic Mike XXL, Insidious: Chapter 3, Penny Dreadful (Season 2), The Leftovers (Season 1), and more.

magic mike xxl

Source: BuzzFeed

Movies on Blu-ray

Magic Mike XXL (Gregory Jacobs) Rated R [115 min] – Three years after Mike bowed out of the stripper life at the top of his game, he and the remaining Kings of Tampa hit the road to Myrtle Beach to put on one last blow-out performance. Starring Channing Tatum, Joe Manganiello, Matt Bomer, Adam Rodriguez, Kevin Nash, and Amber Heard [Watch the trailer]

Magic Mike XXL stands out as one of the better films of the year simply because it has an acute ability to balance character drama with silly, entertaining charm. This Magic Mike isn’t as dark and brooding as its predecessor. XXL is the film moviegoers were hoping for the first time around. There are moments that feel like the movie is dragging, but overall it’s quite enjoyable.

Special features include:

  • The Moves of Magic Mike XXL
  • Extended Malik Dance Scene
  • Georgia

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (Alfonso Gomez-Rejon) Rated PG-13 [105 min] – High schooler Greg, who spends most of his time making parodies of classic movies with his co-worker Earl, finds his outlook forever altered after befriending a classmate who has just been diagnosed with cancer. Starring Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler, Olivia Cooke, Nick Offerman, and Connie Britton

Another great film from earlier this year. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is an incredible cinematic experience. And after you’ve seen it, despite the sadness of it all, there’s a revelatory moment at the end that makes repeat viewing more enjoyable with every watch.

Special features include:

  • Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon
  • This is Where You Learn How The Movie Was Made
  • Abstract: Movie for Rachel
  • A Conversation with Martin Scorsese and Alfonso Gomez-Rejon
  • Greg Gaines and Earl Jackson Productions (Shorts Montage)
  • Audio Commentary by Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon
  • Greg’s Trailer, Gallery
  • And more!

Insidious: Chapter 3 (Leigh Whannell) Rated PG-13 [97 min] – A prequel set before the haunting of the Lambert family that reveals how gifted psychic Elise Rainier reluctantly agrees to use her ability to contact the dead in order to help a teenage girl who has been targeted by a dangerous supernatural entity. Starring Lin Shaye Dermot Mulroney, Stefanie Scott, Angus Sampson, and Leigh Whannell [Watch the Trailer]

As a big step up from Insidious: Chapter 2, Chapter 3 does an OK job at filling in character gaps of our ghost hunters. Unfortunately, there isn’t as much time devoted to team building as one would hope because most of the time is dedicated to haunting our protagonist. There are some good frights, but Insidious: Chapter 3 still fails to capture the magic of the first Insidious.

Special features include:

  • Origin Story: Making Chapter 3 Featurette
  • Deleted Scenes (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Being Haunted: A Psychic Medium Speaks Featurette (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Macabre Creations Featurette (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Stunts: The Car Crash Featurette (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Cherry Glazerr: Tiptoe Through the Tulips Featurette (Blu-ray exclusive)

We Are Still Here (Ted Geoghegan) Not Rated [84 min] – In the cold, wintery fields of New England, a lonely old house wakes up every thirty years – and demands a sacrifice. Starring Barbara Crampton, Andrew Sensenig, and Lisa Marie

It’s been a good while since I’ve seen a haunted house story that I haven’t been bored to tears by. Not since The Conjuring has anything really worked for me. We Are Still Here is not groundbreaking, but it is a solid B-movie flick that has a unique story surrounding the origins of the house that kept my interest engaged. It also has a bloody good finale.

Special features include:

  • Commentary with Writer-Director Ted Geoghegan and Producer Travis Stevens
  • Behind the Scenes – Geoghegan and Stevens discuss the genesis of the project and the challenges and successes of bringing the script to life.
  • Trailer
  • Teaser

Final Girl (Tyler Shields) Rated R [90 min] [DVD Only] – A man teaches a young woman how to become a complete weapon. 13 years later, at 18 she will approach a group of sadistic teens who killed blonde women for unknown reasons. The hunting season begins. Starring Abigail Breslin, Wes Bentley, Logan Huffman, and Alexander Ludwig

On the other side of the coin, Final Girl is the purest example of how a promising B-movie can fail. The concept has all the best intentions and it could have been fantastic, but the acting and the characters are awful. And I’m surprised. With Breslin and Bentley at the forefront, Final Girl should succeed. I’d love to see this remade with a little more attention to detail and better direction.

  • No special features listed

Eaters (Johnny Tabor) Rated R [90 min] [DVD Only] – After their friend goes missing, five road-tripping friends must confront a violent biker gang, but after they narrowly escape, their nightmare goes from bad to spine-chilling. Starring Marcelle Bowman, Robert Dean, and Tristan Parrish Moore

Nothing is more basic than Eaters. I like road trip thrillers as much as the next horror fan, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is one of my favorites, but when there is no intensity or empathy for our protagonists then all is lost. Never did I care about any of the little rascals lost on their way to Timbuktu, or the bikers who are wrapped up in a contrived drug scheme. The folks they encounter that stir the pot are hardly frightening and have no depth to them to be afraid either.

  • No special features listed

Rumble in the Bronx (Stanley Tong) Rated R [87 min] – A young man visiting and helping his uncle in New York City finds himself forced to fight a street gang and the mob with his martial art skills. Starring Jackie Chan, Anita Mui, and Françoise Yip [Watch the Trailer]

This is classic Jackie Chan. I remember growing up as a young lad and catching Rumble in the Bronx on TNT or some cable channel. I always stopped when I reached this point. It seemed to be on all the time. There’s something about the goofiness of the story, Chan’s incredible fight choreography, and the terrible dubbing that creates something magical.

  • No special features listed

Jackie Chan’s First Strike (Stanley Tong) Rated PG-13 [107 min] – This installment of Chan’s Police Story series has our hero trying to locate a missing nuclear warhead. Starring Jackie Chan, Jackson Liu, and Annie Wu [Watch the Trailer]

But if you’re looking for a more serious Chan movie, First Strike is what you seek. A year after Bronx, Chan’s follow up feature is more hard-hitting, non-stop action. Of course the whole scenario the plot is wildly exaggerated like most Chan films, but that’s why we love them. Another fine Jackie Chan classic.

  • No special features listed

What We Did on Our Holiday (Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin) Rated PG-13 [95 min] [DVD Only] – Doug and Abi take their kids on a family vacation. Surrounded by relatives, the kids innocently reveal the ins and outs of their family life and many intimate details about their parents. It’s soon clear that when it comes to keeping a big secret under wraps from the rest of the family, their children are their biggest liability. Starring Rosamund Pike, David Tennant, and Billy Connolly

What would happen if the psycho wife from Gone Girl and the tenth Doctor took a mini vacay as a family? What We Did on Our Holiday is your answer. Not quite as childish as the promotional images imply, WWDOOH does its best in teaching life-long, adult lessons through the perspective of precarious British children. And you can’t have any kind of family comedy without a kooky grandfather, right? There’s a lot that works here better than it should, and perhaps U.S. studios could learn a thing or two about family comedies from this foreign flick.

Special features include:

  • Audio Commentary with Directors Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin
  • “Creating Dysfunction: Making What We Did on Our Holiday” featurette
  • Deleted Scenes

When Marnie Was There (Hiromasa Yonebayashi) Rated PG [103 min] – A young girl is sent to the country for health reasons, where she meets an unlikely friend in the form of Marnie, a young girl with flowing blonde hair. As the friendship unravels it is possible that Marnie has closer ties to the protagonist than we might expect. Starring Sara Takatsuki, Kasumi Arimura, Nanako Matsushima, and Susumu Terajima

Sadly, I missed this film in theaters and haven’t had a chance since to check it out. When Marnie Was There is a Studio Ghibli film in a post Hayao Miyazaki retirement world. So I am interested in seeing how it holds up without him.

Special features include:

  • The Making of When Marnie Was There
  • Yohei Taneda Creates the Art of When Marnie Was There
  • Feature-Length Storyboards
  • Behind the Scenes with the Voice Cast
  • Foreign Trailers and TV Spots
  • US Trailer

Continue Reading for TV Releases –>>

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Coming Soon to Blu-Ray and DVD: Hannibal, Aladdin, Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, and More

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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 3, 2015 we have Aladdin: Diamond Edition, Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, and Hannibal (Season 3). Find out when they’ll be out and what special features movie fans can expect below.

Mission Impossible Rogue Nation Blu-Ray Box Cover Art

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

Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (Christopher McQuarrie) Rated PG-13 [131 min] – Ethan and team take on their most impossible mission yet, eradicating the Syndicate – an International rogue organization as highly skilled as they are, committed to destroying the IMF. Starring Tom Cruise, Rebecca Ferguson, Jeremy Renner, and Simon Pegg

Special features include:

  • Audio Commentary by Tom Cruise and director/screenwriter Christopher McQuarrie
  • Lighting the Fuse
  • Cruise Control
  • Heroes
  • Cruising Altitude
  • Mission: Immersible
  • Sand Theft Auto
  • The Missions Continue

Aladdin Diamond Edition Blu-Ray Box Cover Art

Available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital HD October 13

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

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!

American Ultra Blu-Ray Box Cover Art

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

American Ultra (Nima Nourizadeh) Rated R [95 min] – A stoner – who is in fact a government agent – is marked as a liability and targeted for extermination. But he’s too well-trained and too high for them to handle. Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Connie Britton, Topher Grace and John Leguizamo

Special features include:

  • “Activating American Ultra” Documentary
  • “Assassinating on a Budget” Featurette
  • Gag Reel
  • Audio Commentary with Director Nima Nourizadeh

Ricki and the Flash Blu-Ray Box Cover Art

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

Ricki and the Flash (Jonathan Demme) Rated PG-13 [101 min] – A musician who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom returns home, looking to make things right with her family. Starring Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Mamie Gummer, and Sebastian Stan

Special features include:

  • Getting Ready for Ricki: The Making of Ricki and the Flash — Cast and Crew Walk Through Creating a Rock Goddess and Finding the Heart of the Story
  • Deleted Scenes (Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Featurette: Rediscovering Rick Springfield(Blu-ray exclusive)
  • Cast Photo Gallery(Blu-ray exclusive)

Cooties Blu-Ray Box Cover Art

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

Cooties (Jonathan Milott and Cary Murnion4) Rated R [88 min] – A mysterious virus hits an isolated elementary school, transforming the kids into a feral swarm of mass savages. An unlikely hero must lead a motley band of teachers in the fight of their lives. Starring Elijah Wood, Rainn Wilson, and Alison Pill

Special features include:

  • “Circle, Circle. Dot, Dot…Catching Cooties” Featurette
  • Deleted/Extended/Alternate Scenes
  • Gag Reel
  • Alternate Ending with Optional Audio Commentary
  • “Talking Cooties” Featurette
  • The Cootietary – Audio Commentary with the Cast & Crew

Hannibal Season 3 Blu-Ray Box Cover Art

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

Hannibal: The Complete Third Season (Bryan Fuller) Explores the early relationship between the renowned psychiatrist and his patient, a young FBI criminal profiler, who is haunted by his ability to empathize with serial killers. Starring Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, and Caroline Dhavernas

Special features include:

  • Audio Commentaries with Cast and Crew
  • “Getting the Old Scent Again: Reimagining Red Dragon” Featurette
  • “Beyond the Mind Palace” Featurette
  • “Hannibal on the Run” Featurette
  • Avid Fannibals
  • “Hannibal: Season 3: Killer Intentions” Featurette
  • Post Mortem with Scott Thompson (Webisodes)
  • Gag Reel
  • Deleted Scenes

Family Guy Season 13 DVD Box Cover Art

Available on DVD December 8

Family Guy (Seth MacFarlane) Rated TV-14 [22 min] – In a wacky Rhode Island town, a dysfunctional family strive to cope with everyday life as they are thrown from one crazy scenario to another. Starring Seth MacFarlane, Alex Borstein, Seth Green, Mila Kunis, and Mike Henry

Special features include:

  • On the Road to Springfield Featurette: The Making of “The Simpsons Guy”
  • Commentary on “The Simpsons Guy”
  • Commentary on “Turkey Guys”
  • Commentary on “The 2000 Year-Old Virgin”
  • Commentary on “Stewie, Chris, & Brian’s Excellent Adventure”
  • Commentary on “Once Bitten”
  • Commentary on “Roasted Guy”
  • Deleted Scenes
  • Baby Ways
  • Who Let the Dog Out

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

Coming Soon to Blu-ray and DVD

Click here for more home video announcements

Box Office Battlefield: The Martian, The Walk, and Freeheld

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Every week, movie studios select candidates to enter the glorious battlefield for your hard-earned dollars. The weekend warriors of October 2, 2015 includes The Martian, The Walk (IMAX 3D Only), Freeheld, and He Named Me Malala. 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, Hotel Transylvania 2 frightfully broke September box office records, unfortunately proving there may be some gas left in the tank for Adam Sandler. With Translyvania 2 gaining almost $50 million in domestic ticket sales, The Intern lagged behind in second with a mere $17.7 million. Ouch. Can a science fiction adaptation bolstering a star-studded cast make waves against the monsters of Transylvania or will Joseph Gordon-Levitt and crew walk away as victors? Matt Damon phone home! This is the Box Office Battlefield:

The Martian 2015 Movie Title Logo

The Martian (Ridley Scott) Rated PG-13 [141 min] – During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Starring Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Kate Mara, Michael Peña, Donald Glover, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Jeff Daniels

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 94% • Audience – 94%

My review:

Leading up to this film, I had always heard from others that The Martian is a wonderful book. I didn’t know exactly what it was about, but my anticipation and expectations were fairly high going in. Suffice it to say, the film definitely met my expectations and more.

Matt Damon brings an excellent balance of emotions to his portrayal of astronaut Mark Watney. While having to stay calm and collected to keep his scientific mind at peace to solve every scenario, there’s a resonating layer of humanity that Damon brings to the character that shows he is not infallible. Although we can’t always see it on the outside, we understand that he cannot let his fears get the better of him.

With the help of an incredible supporting cast, those on the ground at NASA and in the Ares space shuttle, they can fear for Watney, as they struggle to come up with a solution to bring him home. While not every character is as strong as others, and it may seem like Game of Thrones trying to keep up with everyone’s title and name, each character serves a purpose.

After a huge slump of subpar features, The Martian is Ridley Scott’s (Alien; Blade Runner) return to form. Every element sewn together to create this unreal mission to explore the many facets of science in order to save one man is all tied together neatly. And despite its long run time, there are scenes that you wish the science was explained a little more intricately because of how well it’s presented on screen.

Cast Away meets Gravity meets Apollo 13, The Martian is a sleek, entertaining adaptation that works on many levels to positively shed the more boring facade of science into the mainstream conversation.

The Walk 2015 Movie Title Logo

The Walk (Robert Zemeckis) [Opens on 9/30 on IMAX Only] Rated PG [123 min] – In 1974, high-wire artist Philippe Petit recruits a team of people to help him realize his dream: to walk the the immense void between the World Trade Center towers. Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Charlotte Le Bon, Guillaume Baillargeon, and Émilie Leclerc

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 86% • Audience – 85%

My review:

If you can’t get past Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s terrifying “French” accent than you might not be able to make it through The Walk unscathed. It’s atrocious in every conceivable way, but beyond this hiccup lies a gleefully cartoonish biopic that works far better than it should.

There’s a special chemistry that Philippe (Gordon-Levitt) shares with each of his crew that’s built very patiently and rewards in the final moments of the film as everything unfolds. As uninteresting and laborious as it all may seem, I enjoyed the camaraderie shared between everyone leading up to the walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center.

Having this prolonged exposition and character building adds extra value to the walk itself, because without it all their hard work would have felt empty no matter how thrilling it is. And thrilling is almost an understatement. Sadly, I have yet to see Man on Wire, the documentary this film is based on, so I had no awareness of the level of insanity Petit’s walk truly was. It’s completely bonkers that this was achieved.

Even knowing that what I’m watching on screen is fake, after the movie was over I discovered I sweat through the pits of my shirt. The IMAX 3D experience, as gimmicky as it is, pays off immensely. Credit should be given to Gordon-Levitt’s physical performance as well as the effects team. The last third of The Walk will be what many only takeaway from this cinematic experience, but without the heist-y Ocean’s Eleven gravitas it wouldn’t have felt as grand of a spectacle.

Freeheld 2015 Movie Title Logo

Freeheld (Peter Sollett) Rated PG-13 [103 min] – New Jersey police lieutenant, Laurel Hester, and her registered domestic partner, Stacie Andree, both battle to secure Hester’s pension benefits when she is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Starring Julianne Moore, Ellen Page, Steve Carell, and Michael Shannon

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 53% • Audience – 58%

Their reviews:

“A television movie of the week gone uninterestingly wrong.” – Manohla Dargis (New York Times)

“It doesn’t quite feel like the prestige pictures that blow through theaters this time of year; it’s a drama often dignified by its workmanlike approach, one that feels relatively judicious with its uplift.” – Benjamin Mercer (AV Club)

My take:

All the right intentions are here, but from what it sounds like, Freeheld doesn’t seem to be as moving or inspiring as it is written on paper. I’m sure Page and Moore put on a good show, but a lot of the other character portrayals I’ve seen in the trailers look like they’re in a completely different movie – I’m looking at you Carell. I don’t think Freeheld looks terrible, I’m just not convinced the movie has that Oscar-level prestige it thinks it does.

He Named Me Malala 2015 Movie Title Logo

He Named Me Malala (Davis Guggenheim) [Limited] Rated PG-13 [87 min] – A look at the events leading up to the Talibans’ attack on the young Pakistani school girl, Malala Yousafzai, for speaking out on girls’ education and the aftermath, including her speech to the United Nations. Starring Malala Yousafzai, Ziauddin Yousafzai, Toor Pekai Yousafzai, and Khushal Yousafzai

Rotten Tomatoes Score: Critics – 60% • Audience – 72%

Their reviews:

“The slick, shallow result [movie] better suited for schools than the cineplex: The Malala who lets herself be captured here is to be admired and applauded, not identified with.” – Inkoo Kang (The Wrap)

“Malala’s undeterred fearlessness in the face of extremists should be applauded, and she is rightfully a model for young women around the planet. But ultimately, this amazing girl is underserved by an unremarkable, congenial and safe portrait.” – Rodrigo Perez (The Playlist)

My take:

The whole story involving Malala sounds harrowing and intense, but it doesn’t seem as though the importance of her work and movement are conveyed well through this documentary. I’m sure within the next 15 years from now there will be a feature film based on the true events that might strike a larger impact with movie going audiences.

Sure Hotel Transylvania 2 wound up capturing the many dollars of families across the country, but I don’t think that it has a strong enough appeal to keep a steady stream of cabbage. The Martian is rated PG-13, it has a huge cast of stars, and Matt Damon maintains his likability on the silver screen despite whatever nonsense he’s spouting off in the media. The Walk is a good movie that demands your attendance in theaters, but it’s only in a select few due to its IMAX 3D limitation – it expands to all theaters in 2D next weekend. 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

San Diego Asian Film Festival Feature Schedule Announced at Chew the Scene 2015

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The 2015 San Diego Asian Film Festival schedule was announced last night at Pacific Arts Movement’s annual Chew the Scene launch party. The 16th SDAFF will be jam packed with over 130 films from 20 countries at 5 different venues in San Diego this year and will run from November 5-14. The opening night film, Miss India America, will be the feature film debut from first time director Ravi Kapoor. Some may be more familiar with his work as an actor in Crossing Jordon as Dr. “Bug”.

A celebration of the arts and entertainment, Chew the Scene 2015 brought together cinephiles and foodies alike to feast on some of the best Asian cuisine San Diego has to offer, as well as preview the upcoming SDAFF 2015 lineup. The evening’s eats and libations included small plates from Common Theory, Cali Baguette, Fire Horse, Sandwich Emporium, Manila Sunset, Filipino Food & Bakery, Royal India, Bistro West, Tajima, Fry King, and Blush Desserts. Suffice it to say, guests came hungry and dishes were wiped clean.

The 2015 San Diego Asian Festival is broken down into four different categories: Masters, Asian American Panorama, Discoveries, and Asia Pop! Each with their own defining characteristics, there will be a bounty of genres for all to enjoy.

Masters: Fresh from Cannes, Berlin, and other prestigious international film festivals, these are premieres and rediscoveries of works by the world’s best directors.

Asian American Panorama: The best of Asian American cinema in all of its colors – from short film programs and animation, to documentaries about the famous and infamous, to feature-length tales of woe and humor.

Discoveries: From Asia’s most innovative and thought-provoking filmmakers come new stories and new ways of telling them.

Asia Pop!: Films to make you laugh, cry, and cheer, featuring Korean hotties, badminton buddies, imperial intrigue, cute kindergardeners, and women you do not want to mess with.

Chew the Scene 2015 reached its climax by playing a highlight teaser reel of all the films that will be shown during the festival. You can watch the trailer below:

Along with the highlighted feature films, which you can find below, actor Ken Jeong (The Hangover; NBC/Yahoo! Screen’s Community) will also be making an appearance as a guest panelist on Saturday, November 7. Tickets for the festival and events will be available to purchase on the PacArts website.

Without further ado, let’s get on with the lineup!

Opening Night Film

Miss India America (Ravi Kapoor) [USA] 93 mins – Lily is a college-bound valedictorian with a gilded future, so beauty pageants are way below her. But when a case of sass strikes, she finds out what she’s not above: some good ol’ fashioned competition. Thanks to a wily script and Tiya Sircar’s knockout comedic performance, nobody is safe from Lily’s schemes.

  • Thursday, November 5 @ 7:00 pm – Museum of Contemporary Art, Sherwood Auditorium

Centerpiece Film

Seoul Searching (Benson Lee) [South Korea, USA] 105 mins – Don’t you forget about 1986, when the Latin Lover collided with the punk and the pastor’s daughter on a Seoul summer camp for overseas Korean youth to discover their roots. And by roots, we mean soju, laughs, and that weird science of young love.

  • Sunday, November 8 @ 6:00 pm – UltraStar Mission Valley

Closing Night Film

Made in Japan (Josh Bishop) [USA] 90 mins – Howdy neighbors! So says Tomi Fujiyama to her friends in the U.S. who are about to discover just what kind of neighbor she is. With cowboy hat and guitar, she’s determined to re-take the Grand Ole Opry stage, where in 1964, she became the country music institution’s first Japanese star.

  • Friday, November 13 @ 7:00 pm – Museum of Contemporary Art, Sherwood Auditorium

Continue Reading for the Masters Line-up–>

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