By Brakhage: An Anthology, Volumes One and Two (The Criterion Collection)

I give thanks from Japan.

A picture of the blue-ray disc is very beautiful.

When I watch a silent film of Mr. Brakhage, I get dark the illumination and get alone at midnight.

This process make me a mysterious impression.

You can probably find ample good reviews of this set online, since this is an early Blu-Ray edition from the essential Criterion Collection, and is a lush and perfect enough package to have received awards. I purchase very few movies on disc, in spite of being a rabid cinephile; and this is one BR set that I bought _without hesitation_. Describing some of the films might sound like parody, insured boredom, or unbearable pretense, but I'm telling you....experiencing the films is something else. Theoretical baggage is posterior to the immediate, sensual experience of the films, as they unfold. Brakhage was a magician of some kind, a sui generis artist.

Listening to music while watching these silent film-paintings (even the ones that are not hand painted, as are his later films) is probably fine, but I'd personally suggest trying (and trying....and trying...) them in silence, the way he intended them to be seen. The effect is, I think, an intensification of the experience, since (if I'm correct) SB intended the films to BE A FORM OF MUSIC, or at least to be very much like music, in its essence. I've done this with friends, sometimes several hours at a time, and the effect is not just in my own head; others concur, and even bring it up afterwards without me prompting them.

The only other thing I might suggest is going out of your way to see these on celluloid if you can, while celluloid and film projectors still exist. And while these particular films still exist, _as_ films, which might not be for terribly much longer. It really is a different experience. I know, I know...isn't it always? But with many of these works, maybe all of them....it's really, really a different experience. It will shake you.

Critic Fred Camper, a sensitive and humble writer on many kinds of film art, has written extensively on Brakhage (including notes in this DVD/BR edition), and his website is a valuable resource. Also amazing is Brakhage's own short-lived radio show, which you can hear on Ubuweb. It is wonderful to hear the man speak! He's a mystic, but not a flake. And not drunk on himself, just honestly intent on, well, breaking through something to something else. How else to say this?

Buy By Brakhage: An Anthology, Volumes One and Two (The Criterion Collection) Now

Stan Brakhage is one of cinema's most unique artists. His films have a (literally) hands-on and human approach that has simply remained unmatched. Highlights include Mothlight, Window Water Baby Moving (surely one of the most beautiful films ever made), Dog Star Man, 23rd Psalm Branch, Night Music and Chinese Series (Brakhage's final work).

Criterion's massive blu-ray release of 56 Brakhage films allows his vision to shine even clearer than ever before. These films look magnificent. While some are limited by their sources, others (particularly his hand-painted films) look immaculate.

The audio is a bit hard to judge, as most of these films completely lack a soundtrack. Those that do have sound come across decent enough, though they are, again, limited by their sources.

The extras are plentiful and all worthwhile. The mulyi-part Brakhage on Brakhage series allows the filmmaker to freely discuss his creative process and influences, as well as share from interesting stories about fellow artists. Several lectures and interviews are also included, as well as For Stan, Marilyn Brakhage's short film dedicated to her husband.

The real treat here are the audio remarks by Brakhage, which detail the making and inspiration behind each individual film. These are only included on the first volume of this collection, however.

By Brakhage is one of Criterion's very finest releases, and thus, one of the greatest home video releases of all time.

Read Best Reviews of By Brakhage: An Anthology, Volumes One and Two (The Criterion Collection) Here

This is a fantastic blu ray for vj's and artists in general, a great update on the Vol. 1 and 2 on DVD. For me it is a great way to pepper my live music with his images. Stunning.

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This video was a requested gift something he had seen and wanted. This particular video was as expected, excellent quality and condition and he is quite satisfied with it.

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The Terror (1964)

Just got to say after the bad print of Kansas City Confidential from this company, I was scared to get this version of The Terror on blu ray. Just like KCC, they DNRd the crap out of this. To the point you're looking at a soft picture. Maybe I am confused, but shouldn't 1080p have plenty of detail and more grain? I admit, this is the best it has looked on home video, but it definitely is not the crisp MGMHD print. Some scenes on this blu ray combo look alright, while others there is no detail. I expect the stock film Corman used to look bad, but not the studio shots. Even the close ups are fuzzy. It is over cropped at 1.85 instead of its 1.66 frame (except for the credits), but at least its anamorphic. The 5.1 sound is horrible, I suggest switching to two channel to utilize the center channel at least. For ten bucks, its not a bad buy (at least it comes with a DVD copy)...but it could've been so much better. But this will have to do until MGM puts it out on blu ray. One interesting note is the American International logo is still at the beginning....I find that interesting, since their films are released by MGM on video.

I cannot complain as others have about this transfer. It is, by far, the best representation of the film I have ever seen.

The aspect ratio fills a 16:9 screen and its sound is in 5.1 surround. I thought it sounded terrific!

Also for the first time, I was able to watch the movie all the way through. Because other transfers' images were always so blurry and the sound so muffled, it was almost like watching snow on the screen. I'd lose interest halfway through and fall asleep.

This time, though, the movie grabbed my attention. How could it not? The image and sound were both clear. Happily, I changed my mind from judging the film mediocre to just as intriguing as Roger Corman's other masterpieces, like "The Fall of the House of Usher (1960)," "The Pit and the Pendulum (1961)," "Tales of Terror (1962)," "Tower of London (1962)," "The Haunted Palace (1963)," "The Raven (1963)," "Masque of the Red Death (1964)," and "The Tomb of Ligeia (1965)." It would be awesome to have these MGM features transferred to Blu-ray!

The Fall of the House of Usher

The Pit and the Pendulum

The Fall of the House of Usher /The Pit and the Pendulum

Tales of Terror (Edgar Allan Poe's)

Tales of Terror/Twice Told Tales (Midnite Movies Double Feature)

The Haunted Palace / The Tower of London

Double Feature: The Comedy of Terrors & The Raven

The Masque of the Red Death / The Premature Burial

The Tomb of Ligeia / An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe

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I have searched high and low for a high quality print of THE TERROR, a favorite of mine since I saw it back in 1963, but since it's in the public domain, the numerous VHS and DVD copies have ranged from bad to worse. My search is finally over, for the print in this new DVD/Blu Ray set is almost perfect. The creative and colorful use of lighting, resembling that used by Mario Bava, can now be seen in all its glory and the colors (including the famous butterscotch finale) are sharp and vivid. Although not in the original widescreen ratio, it still looks astonishingly good. For those of you unfamiliar with its history, THE TERROR was cobbled together in a few weeks by 5 different directors including the 26 year old Jack Nicholson who has the starring role. Karloff's scenes were shot in 3 days.

Be advised that while this is not an official MGM release like the other AIP Poe pictures, it is certainly the best copy of the film out there. I cannot speak about the quality of the Blu-Ray disc as I don't have a Blu-Ray player but in order to get the DVD I had to buy the combo pack. I can say that the DVD looks great on my flat screen and sounds great too. In addition to the dialogue, Ronald Stein's memorable score also comes through loud and clear. The packaging also restores the original poster art which clearly states that THE TERROR is a Boris Karloff vehicle not a Jack Nicholson one although that's how it used to be marketed in previous incarnations. In addition it's a rare opportunity to see Jack's then wife Sandra Knight in what is her best known role.

Read Best Reviews of The Terror (1964) Here

I am a fan of this movie, but think there is some flaw in the DVD copy mechanism, not Blu-Ray. I have had to return two copies to Amazon and one to DVD empire all with the same problem. The DVD sticks in the third chapter. The color and transfer were fine with me, I just wish I could watch all of this clinker

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A brief and to the point review to tell those waiting "Buy this set." The movie has been remastered and has Dolby 5.1. As with "Dementia 13," the company Cultra has delivered the version you have been waiting for on Blu-ray or dvd. Buy it! I have a dvdr of MGM HD version and this looks about the same to me. I will take this set over my homemade dvdr any day. Too bad Sony dragged their heels on this one and all of the rest of the "no brainer" instant sale releases!

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Pogues in Paris: 30th Anniversary Concert (2012)

If you want a one word review of this concert video the word would have to be "FUN" no question about it. This video captures a Pogues show quite well showing the band and the crowd having a raucous good time! We were lucky enough to see the Pogues here in Chicago about a year ago and this truly does capture the energy in the room during a Pogues show.

For those of you that follow the Pogues you'll know that frontman Shane MacGowan likes to have a little bit of the whiskey before the shows, sometimes causing him to miss the performance and sometimes making him pretty incoherent on stage. While all of that adds to the charm and the mystique of the Pogues if you ask me here, for a night in Paris, Shane is in fine form. There are times during the show where you catch another band member's reaction to what Shane is doing on stage and there are smiles all around.

The picture quality is excellent and the shots and cuts all make sense. We have all seen concert footage where the director thinks his job is to jump from camera to camera with no apparent rhyme or reason and that, thankfully, is not the case here. Even with this video being pushed out the door a few weeks after the concert the end result is a quality product. The sound quality is excellent and should be turned up until it is making your speakers shake.

The crowd shots here are a whole lot of fun. If you've never been to a Pogues show you might be surprised that a mosh pit is a regular sighting at the front of the stage and here in Paris is no different. The crowd is banging around, people are crowd surfing and overall having a damn good time. The Pogues music is all about fun and the fans react to it.

The musical selection here is pretty standard for a modern Pogues set, it really plays as a greatest hits type of show and I think that is exactly what the fans want. Shane gives up the mic for a few songs giving Spider Stacy and Andrew Ranken a chance to lead the best Irish Punk band in the land.

Overall I have to highly recommend this to anyone that likes the Pogues and to anyone that likes good music whether it be Irish Punk or anything under the sun. I love Shane and I love the Pogues and this video had me smiling from beginning to end. This concert video is a whole lot of fun and shows the absolute joy the Pogues have making their music and their fans have listening.

If ever there was any doubt that the Pogues are one of the all-time great live bands (not to mention all time great bands, full stop) then this is the final proof. If you've ever been to a Pogues concert then this does an amazing job of recreating the experience bettering it in some ways, since Shane has rarely, if ever been so... coherent. The first time I ever saw them he could sing ok, but otherwise stood vacantly on the stage, whirling his mic around in a daze. Here he is on top of his game and clearly having fun. But no one goes to a Pogues concert for the vocal abilities (throughout the show we also get Spider, Terry and Andrew all crooning, and none of them are going to win any awards); the Pogues have always been about the energy, skill and sheer exuberant joy of the instruments, and it is so good to see that, 30 years on, they can all still produce in abundance. Even Phil Chevron, who is obviously suffering from his cancer, is channeling everything he has into the performance.

The Blu Ray is verging on perfection. My only regret is the absence of White City, one of their best songs and a true live classic, and I wish I could switch that out for Bottle of Smoke. But that's nitpicking. It's almost impossible to watch this and not find yourself jumping around with a huge smile on your face, reveling in one of the truly great songwriters of the 20th century.

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My husband enjoyed watching this blueray very much. I bought it with the CD and it turned out to be a great buy.

Read Best Reviews of Pogues in Paris: 30th Anniversary Concert (2012) Here

Coraline (2009)

This movie, yes is a little creepy. It has a moral, which is the point. The grass is always greener on the other side. The moral is the grass is not always greener and things are not always what they seem. I watched this with our 12 year old daughter. She was fine with it. Not sure that a child of 10 or younger would understand it. We love this movie. The person who commented about the 3D effects is wrong. They must have watched that non Blu-Ray 3D, with the paper glasses. This is the version for 3D TV's and Blu-Ray players.

I am only commenting on the 3D aspect of it....not the story itself.

I have several movies in 3d and for me this is bright & colorful. Story is well done but unfortunately nothing really leaps out of the screen at you except for a few instances. I did not think that I was going to like this but watching this in 3D really changed my mind.

I did not really care for Alice in Wonderland or A Christmas Carol. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and Despicable Me are pretty good but this I found to be more of a visual treat.

I must say that out of all that I have -Saw 3D and Clash of the Titans-Resident Evil... just do not hold up against CGI movies. IMAX does great stuff but those are not movies.

From start to finish Coraline is a visual feast and I would recommend this for anyone that has a 3D television.

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Universal Studios Home Entertainment have announced the US DVD and Blu-ray Disc release of Coraline on 21st July 2009. Based on the book by Neil Gaiman, this stop-motion animation written and directed by Henry Selick follows an adventurous girl who finds another world that is a strangely idealized version of her frustrating home, but it has sinister secrets.

Available on single-disc DVD, two-disc Collector's Edition DVD and Blu-ray Disc, all include both the 2-D and 3-D version of the main feature and come packaged with 4 pairs of 3D glasses. Features are outlined below...

Single-Disc DVD

* 2-D and 3-D Presentations

* 1.85:1 Anamorphic Widescreen

* English, French and Spanish DD5.1 Surround

* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles

* Feature Commentary with Director Henry Selick and Composer Bruno Coulais

2-Disc Collector's Edition DVD As above plus a bonus disc with the following content:

* Digital Copy of Coraline 2-D Version (Expires 07/31/2010)

* Deleted Scenes

* The Making of Coraline

* Voicing the Characters

Blu-ray Disc This is a Blu-ray Combo release which comes bundled with a standard-def DVD that includes the 2-D version of the film (AV specs as per the DVD releases), audio commentary, and a Digital Copy of the film. Features include:

* 2-D and 3-D Presentations

* 1080P 1.85:1 Widescreen

* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio

* French and Spanish 5.1 DTS Surround

* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles

* U Control Picture in Picture (2-D Feature Only)

* U Control Tours and Voice Sessions (2-D Feature Only)

* U Control Picture in Picture Animatic (2-D Feature Only)

* Deleted Scenes

* The Making of Coraline

* Voicing the Characters

* Creepy Coraline

* Feature Commentary with Director Henry Selick and Composer Bruno Coulais

* D-Box

* BD Live My Scenes Sharing

* BD Live The World According to Henry

* Disc 2: DVD with standard-def 2-D version of the film, audio commentary & 2-D Digital Copy of the film (expires 31st July 2010)

Read Best Reviews of Coraline (2009) Here

I was let down when I saw the paper glasses that it comes with. I was expecting clear, transparent 3D glasses but the glasses that it comes with have Pinkish and Greenish lenses.

But after watching the movie with glasses I found that they worked pretty good. I haven't seen Coraline 3D in theatres, but I was blown away with some of the 3D scenes. The glasses do take away the bright vibrant colors (not too much though, Coraline's bright orange coat and Blue hair were still vibrant) but add a completely new feel and mood to the movie that's very appropriate for it.

Some people have said that only a few selected scenes are in 3d. I didn't feel this at all. The entire movie was in 3D. Maybe a couple close up scenes where there wouldn't be too much depth to begin with may be 2D, ( I don't know) But the rest was completely 3D.

I watched the movie on Blu-ray and on an HD TV. That's the only way to get the best picture possible.

There are almost 2 different version of Coraline. The 3D and the regular versions. They both create two completely different experiences. When watching in 3D, you feel like you've been transported into a different world that's gloomy and dark. In 2D Blu ray, you get to observe the same world with rich details that aren't visible in the 3D.

So this is defiantly worth buying. The 3D is not as good as the theatres but still works splendidly.

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This uncommon animation starts with tween-aged angst, the kind that demands independence but still wants mom and dad close by. Her busy parents don't have much time for her, though, and her new, remote home doesn't offer much reward for her explorations (other than some rather kooky neighbors). So, even if it's not wholly conscious, Coraline wishes for a nicer place and parents that pay more attention.

As the movie's tagline says, "be careful what you wish for." Like Alice down the rabbit hole, Coraline finds a secret passage to a more magical place. Soon, however, the magic turns dark. That's where the brilliant animation really comes into its own. The stop animation (or at least the look of it) bring to mind Tim Burton with a macabre touch of Brothers Quay. You know your child best skittish ones might find some of the imagery a bit much. Still, kids' stories (like Alice in Wonderland) have always had dark edges. That deliciously spooky sense, plus some great animation, really set this movie apart from the usual.

-wiredweird

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Kingdom of War Part 1 and Part 2 (2006)

This was an excellent movie. Very good story line, actors, costumes and scenery were superb. This is one of the best Thai movies I have seen and I've had seen a good number of them. The fighting scenes were very intense and the weapons were authentic.

Seven years ago I saw THE LEGEND OF SURIYOTHAI, directed and/or produced by a cousin of the Thai Royal Family. I thought it was truly awful. Yet hope sprung eternal and when KINGDOM OF WAR came out I got it to see if/how far Thai film making had progressed.

Oops, the first disk of this two-disk Blu-ray was awkward, talky; a mush of cute kids and glum,

sour generals discussing their problems (maybe a set-up history lesson?) Radically boring. But thankfully mercifully short.

BUT THE SECOND DISK CAME ALIVE! Great in every respect. Writing, design, production,

characterizations, acting, battle action; it's long too; over two and a half hours.

I was amazed and delighted.

Disk Two's action historic drama doesn't have boring discussions as in that first

disk. Suddenly it seems nepotism is out and 21st-Century Thai film-making is in.

For Amazon's great two-disk Blu-ray price of $17.99, in Disk one you'll see Thailand's lush scenery, stunning temples, historically-accurate costumes and weaponry. (I spent seven years in Thailand, learning about this incredible country) Disk One is a true-to-life history drama of Thai wars with Burma (now renamed 'Miramar')

The real cinema treat is in the second DVD, which is much longer. And SUPERB in every aspect.

I collect Asian films (mostly Japanese and Chinese). They're having a real renaissance,

blowing Hollywood and Bollywood away). If this surprise film is typical of new Thai films,

then there goes my movie budget.

In the last decade Chinese and Japanese films have made giant leaps. For more welcome-to-a-new-age entertaining Thai films, see Chocolate. It's no period piece; taking place in modern-day Bangkok. There's also Bangkok Dangerous [Blu-ray] a Western-Thai collaboration shot in Bangkok, starring Hollywood's hardest-working actor of late, Nicholas Cage.

Both well-done action flicks offering keen looks at Thailand, unique and memorable.

A long-time fan of Thailand, I hope their films continue improving. In the meantime, to see how far Asian film has come, here are six surprising titles: HERO, LEGEND OF THE BLACK SCORPION, BATTLE OF THE WARRIORS, THE BALLAD OF NARAYAMA, HOUSE OF FLYING DAGGERS and DEATH NOTE. All, wonderful!

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A very touching film of Siam empire history in blu-ray 1 & 2. I am longing for the 3rd part of this soon ...

Read Best Reviews of Kingdom of War Part 1 and Part 2 (2006) Here

A very well-done production of this time of Thai history. Of course, it is drama not history, but it is nonetheless well-written, well-directed and exceptionally well-executed. I look forward to watching parts 3 and 4, as soon as they are completed and sub-titled in English. While I'm fluent in Thai, my grandsons need the sub-titles. For those who wonder who King Naresuan is, he is called "Naresuan The Great" because the original Thai kingdom was formed by him from the minor warring ethnic Thai states which had been conquered or forcibly allied to Burma. That kingdom is the direct predecessor to the present kingdom.

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This was a good educational film on Siam before it became Thailand and Burma before it became Miramar. I had the good fortune to visit Thailand and enjoyed the people and culture. For some of older folks I enjoyed going to the movies to see the musical masterpiece The King and I. However, like a similar foreign film called the Red Cliff I struggled with the first part of this 2 disk set trying to get a handle on which of the various Lords was on which side. The main characters were not a problem but, who was aligned with each was a big problem with me I just could not keep track. So with the subtitles and the foreign names it was tough. Still I would recommend this film for those who enjoy watching a fairly good foreign film.

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Blu-Ray All I Can (2012)

Definitely one of the most innovatively filmed ski movies ever. These guys (mostly, a few gals show up)throw some wicked air and take really sick lines down incredibly steep terrain mostly accessed either by skinning to it or taking a chopper. Pretty good soundtrack too.

There is not really a story or if there is it wasn't something I could follow and the action seemed to jump from place to place without the film telling you, but, hey, it is a freakin' ski movie. It has lots of big mountains and deep snow. And, the filming techniques used are cutting edge.

Check it out to get your ski brain and body super-charged!

I don't understand why the other reviewers have to give bad ratings simply because there is an environmental subtext to this film. As they say in the film, by being out on the mountain we are all inherently environmentalists.

Griefers aside, this film is simply amazing. I've watched it with skiers and non-skiers and everyone is blow away on so many levels, the skiing, the scenery, the cinematography, the context, the music. Its all so enjoyable. I've owned it for a few weeks and have shared it with so many people. I can't imagine many people who wouldn't thoroughly enjoy this film. Can't wait to see what Sherpas Cinemas comes out with next. Okay, I'm going to go watch it again now!

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Not your typical ski porn film. It IS ski porn, but so much more: Knock your socks off innovative cinematography, mind boggling concepts, gorgeous art direction, and a message that if you really truly love skiing, you have to understand that your passion is inextricably interlinked with the health of our planet.

This film has won so many awards it's insane, both inside the ski industry and in equal competition with the major blockbusters.

Read Best Reviews of Blu-Ray All I Can (2012) Here

Don't hesitate... this one rules! J.P.'s segment alone is worth it, but this one is so much more. Buy it!

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This is the Ultimate Ski movie. Lots of great cinematography and it was awesome getting to skiing all over the world (like Moroccowho would have thought?).

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Top Gun (Special Collector's Edition) (1986)

Top Gun never claims to have epic scope, emotional gravitas, or a deep plot. I imagine that those who criticize this movie for its supposed shortcomings also look upon the Three Stooges with disgust for not exploring the depth of Moe's antagonistic relationship with Curly. The fact is that only about 10% of films released in general circulation attempt to have the depth of a Citizen Kane or Godfather. Among the other 90%, Top Gun is the best of the best.

Top Gun's obvious strength is the aerial visuals. Not since perhaps Howard Hughes' Jet Pilot has there been such an ambitious attempt to capture the look and feel of high performance flight. The F-14's photogenic qualities combine with Tony Scott's signature backlighting to create a terrific sense of energy and screen presence for the Grumman bird. The tactical realism may suffer, but the tight spacing and resulting packed frames of the ACM sequqnces are uniquely energetic and fast-paced. It is a shame that this may be the last time that anyone goes to the expense and hassle of using real film to capture such manuevers. The footage still compares favorably to state of the art CGI 20 years after its release.

The non-flying scenes are remarkable only for the collection of young talent that would eventually drive box office returns for a good part of the '90s. But the greatest compliment I could give the plot and acting is that they don't detract from the pacing and cohesiveness of a visually-driven movie.

*RE: Review TitleOK3 is the best grade possible for US Navy pilots performing carrier landings.

4:3 ratio screen is very good transfer. However, wide-screen isn't really wide screen. it's a 4:3 screen chopped off from top and bottom. in other word, instead of having a whole theatrical picture, what you get is picture that's been chopped up both vertical and horizontally. what we are seeing is only 1/3 of what's filmed, which is even smaller than 4:3. somebody cheated big time from paramount. setup menu is false leading. I want to see entire wing span on F-14! It does make huge difference on impact in fighting scene. movie this good must be done right. and while at it, make it a anamorphic enhanced.

Buy Top Gun (Special Collector's Edition) (1986) Now

"Top Gun" is the mach ten 80s mega hit that set theatre attendance on fire and established producer Jerry Bruckheimer and actor Tom Cruise as two of Hollywood's king size titans, behind and in front of the camera. All about a military flight school run for `the best of the best,' the film stars Cruise as Lt. Pete Maverick Mitchell. Pete's too sexy for his leather bomber jacket and he knows it. He's also short on pleasantries when it comes to wooing the femme fatale of the friendly skies, Charlotte `Charlie' Blackwood (Kelly McGillis). But high flying maneuvers between Pete and Charlie quickly move from the school room to the bedroom. Then tragedy strikes and Pete has to pull it together to prove himself as the hero of the hour. Val Kilmer costars as Pete's annoying and priggish rival for the top honors; Tom `Iceman' Kazanski. The cast also includes Tom Skeritt, Michael Ironside and Anthony Edwards.

What sets "Top Gun" apart from similar military film fare of the 80s is its ability to combine a sense of the miraculous within the gritty world of tougher than tough obstacles. The dog fight footage is thrilling and the plot moves effortlessly from drama, to melodrama, to action/adventure yarn on testosterone overdrive. There's even a shirtless eye candy volleyball tournament thrown in, with the guys doing their machismo best to ignite interest in the female population. However, the soundtrack album, which fueled the film's high octane performance at the box office, now seems to have dated at twice the rate of any other from the 80s save `Dirty Dancing.' Kenny Loggins' `Playin' With The Boys' and Tina Marie's `Lead Me On' have that faint tinny echo of a forgotten pop culture where hoop earrings and big hair were synonymous with wacky-tacky red carpet glamour. Berlin's `Take My Breath Away' does anything but.

After the disastrous effort put forth on Paramount's `Footloose' special editon, I didn't hold out much hope for this transfer either. However, "Top Gun's" anamorphically enhanced transfer is remarkably clean and solid. Color saturation is very nicely rendered with velvety blacks and very pristine whites. Occasionally one will note a slight hint of film grain. There are no digital anomalies (edge enhancement, pixelization, shimmering of fine details) for a smooth video presentation that is sure to please. The audio has been remixed but continues to exhibit that dated 80s quality that is best left to nostalgia for a time when sound wasn't quite so integral to one's overall appreciation of movie culture. Extras include an audio commentary that is adequate at best. There's also a 6 part documentary that really should have been played as one big one, four music videos which will confound people as to why MTV became so big, and some storyboards, production materials and vintage featurettes. So set your DVD player to `cruise' control and get ready to set off for the wild blue yonder. "Top Gun" is a blast!

Read Best Reviews of Top Gun (Special Collector's Edition) (1986) Here

I agree with many that TOP GUN is quite dated, has 1986 written all over it but is worth seeing for the fantastic stunts and sky scenes. This film was made before CGI took over (the good old days). On its release back in 1986, the film was popular because of the big stars at the time (Cruise, Kilmer and McGillis), the awesome soundtrack and the special stunts. The plot however was disappointing as well as the poor character development.

The original DVD release was in the wrong widescreen aspect ratio (2:00), but has been fixed for this new Special Edition by reinstating the correct 2:40 aspect ratio. In addition, the print has been restored to a degree and it looks fantastic! The special features are a godsend, including video clips for the key songs, a making of documentary and vintage footage of Tom Cruise speaking about the film in 1986.

Despite it's downsides, the film is worth seeing. The new DVD is worth purchasing for it's restoration and impressive special features. At last, Paramount are starting to do DVD's properly.

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Well, this was really a mixed bag for me. Top Gun was always one of my favorite movies growing up, and I've owned it on VHS, DVD, and now Blu-Ray. The lack of aspect ratio information on the box is quite telling, as there is no TRUE widescreen all video is letterboxed, even on a 16:9 HD LCD TV. The "widescreen" is simply a cropped version of the full screen edition, with black bars. This was very disappointing to me, as I was hoping for some full 1080 F-14 action.

That said, the EXCELLENT DTS 6.1 sound track nearly makes up for the visuals. The encoding seems theater-pure, and is one of the best BD audio tracks I've heard. It's really astonishing how defined the audio is, especially the spatial effects and rumble during the flying sequences. Simply superb audio.

Hopefully, Paramount can dig up a better quality version of the master and give us a TRUE widescreen, full HD experience for Top Gun. Until then, this is the best that we've got.

Mere Brother Ki Dulhan (2011)

This is not the first time that this story has been unfolded on the silver screen. In fact, the producers did not want any of the viewers to assume that it was indeed some ground breaking plot that they had thought of, which is why they actually announced the plot through the very title of the movie.

So if it is NOT a new idea then what is good about it? First, the presence of Katrina and Imran adds such dignity and charm of eras gone by as makes the viewer part of the goings on. Katrina is not only a goddess in the looks department but also her spontaneity with comedy and her ability to emote make her a true deserver of the global success and adulation she enjoys. Imran Khan is evolving a certain style of acting which not many leading actors have had underplaying and underacting. On celluloid, underacting is a very powerful style of acting as was proved for decades by Dilip Kumar. I also like the boy's "sharifness" and wish that he becomes the role model for today's rambunctious and arrogant youth and helps mellow them down. The movie is charming and entertaining and the pace never slackens. The music is not great but a few numbers are surely foot tapping. Had at least one song been a maga chartbuster this movie would have raked in a lot more mullah for its producers. Ali Zafar with a Punjabi lilt to his diction is a natural comedian. He has in some scenes expressions which are typical of a stand-up comedian who has broken into movies (I do not know if he ever was a stand up comedian) but that is not necessarily (at least for me) a bad thing. The three of them, it is clear from the way they look and act on screen, must have had a ball while shooting for the movie, which is what the audiences always sense and admire. It is a charming movie about normal people of our generation who have fun filled and happy lives.

This movie will remind you of "While You Were Sleeping." The brother isn't in a coma but the younger brother falling for his older brother's "girl" is the same. This brother also is too interested in another woman and thinks very highly of himself. The younger brother keeps praising the older as in "While You Were Sleeping." The marriage preparations get farther along in the movie, but all turns out well in the end.

There are a few references to other Bollywood figures (SRK) and movies. However this would be a good intro to Bollywood movies. It's age appropriate for teens and up. Dimple, the female lead, gives sleeping pills, a lot of them, to one character. That might be hard to explain to younger children. Also there's some drinking, including a binge fest. There's also minor smoking.

If you liked "While You Were Sleeping" check this movie out.

Buy Mere Brother Ki Dulhan (2011) Now

Those of you who love the filmi dialogues and acting that a good Bollywood flick provide will enjoy this film. Imran shines as the chocolate hero Khush to the free-spirited and loveable Katrina Dimple. While the premise of boy meets girl while searching for a bride for his brother and then falls in love with her is formulaic, the film is anything but. Sure there is some of the typical Bollywood twists and turns, but the film continually surprises by throwing a creative solution to a problem. The music numbers are catchy and fun, and the cinematography is fresh. You won't be disappointed!

Read Best Reviews of Mere Brother Ki Dulhan (2011) Here

One of the first few bollywood movies I've watched. I first saw it on netflix, I thought the story was funny, it really entertained me and I ended up really liking it, even the song and dance numbers. So I brought the movie on Amazon like a month later. Now it's one of my favorite comedy films. Only thing I didn't like was It's a little long for this type of story, other than that, I've already recommended and watched with a few friends, that also liked it.

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I got this movie in about a week. I loved this movie and it was packaged alright. Quality of the movie is legit and no fake copy like some other sellers I know that sold it to me. Overall I love everything!!

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Kickboxer (1989)

Jean-Claude Van Damme will never be confused for anything other than what he is: a martial arts actor whose acting abilities are less important than his high-kicking ones. This is not a bad thing either. He is probably one of the two or three best action stars now working, and his legions of fans appreciate his style. In KICKBOXER, he reveals in one movie the best and worst of what he is capable. He plays Sloan, an American fighter whose brother is crippled by the savagery of the Thai champion, Tong Po, played by Van Damme's real life friend Michel Quissi, who stars in many of his other films. What the viewer sees is your basic get-revenge-on-the-dude-who-hurt-my-brother movie.

Van Damme closes with s stirring victory over a very tough and, in his own way, a colorful foe. Van Damme's strengths include his good looks, athletic ability, martial arts expertise, and even some boog-a-looing disco dancing. What he adds to this is a sense to the audience of breathless expectation. By simply looking at him undergo the bone-breaking training imposed on him by his Wise Old Master, the viewer can just for that moment put himself on the screen, absorbing the same beating. Even in his first films, when he played the bad guy, the audience knew that any victory the hero achieved over him was dictated only by the script. In KICKBOXER, Van Damme begins what for him proves a winning trend: he needs a worthy opponent to make the movie resonate. In KICKBOXER, Michel Quissi, who is no Asian at all, puts on makeup to simulate the epicanthic eyefolds and shaves his head to produce one mean-looking man. One of the most effective uses of a heavy that I have ever seen in any martial arts film is directors Mark DiSalle and David Worth's decision to introduce Tong Po not by sight but by sound. Van Damme hears a strange pounding and when he investigates by following the noise, almost as if he were a human geiger counter, he sees Tong Po kicking a concrete pillar hard enough to shake dust. The latent fear in his eyes connects viscerally to the audience. This scene in which Van Damme shows hesitation is one of his best, but he rarely exhibits this less than heroic temperament in future films. The down side to KICKBOXER is generic to the genre. It is simply not possible for him to absorb such bone-crunching punishment and bounce up off the mat to fight on and win. But his ability to do so is probably part of the myth and mystique that marks such fight movies. Does anyone really want to peek into the magician's hat to see where the dove comes from?

Ive always loved VanDamme movies, but in HD they're even better. I really didnt expect much from this bluray version, but when i put it in to watch, my jaw dropped. It is so clear!

Most likely, you have already seen this movie and you just want to know how the bluray quality is. This movie is better with bluray because the setting in bangkok is full of art and nature, and it really shows thru in this movie. Closeups are super sharp.

there are one or two scenes where the master video wasn't best quality...like the first hospital scene, you can see the pops and dirt on the film... this problem must have been unavoidable...

Finally, buy this bluray!

Buy Kickboxer (1989) Now

This presentation is fantastic, both PQ and AQ is outstanding. Thank you Lions Gate. There is no extras available but if you like Jean Claude Van Damme's earlier movie then buy this.

Read Best Reviews of Kickboxer (1989) Here

Back in the 80s, this one was one my top movies!!!! Along with Karate Kid, The Dragon : Bruce Lee's Story and best of the best. All inspired me to become a martial arts expert. Which I have used for over 7 years! I can seriously say I have watch this movie over 100 times, before going to tae kwon do and afterwards. Trying to perfect my form, all show off movies. Nothing too powerful, but it looks amazing in demos for karate schools. You will truly fall in love with this movie!! RENT/WATCH IT/OWN IT!!!

*why does van damm always have to reveal his rear end in almost every film he makes??

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I searched for years to find this movie on dvd, and now its on bluray, its even better. Sure its a little corny at times, but what 80s movie isn't. This could be the best combat movie ever made.

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A Prophet (2009)

Malik El Djebena enters prison a blank slate of nineteen. Immediately you realize his youth, his vulnerability in a savage, organized world that only sees him as fresh bait. He becomes the means to a murderous end for fellow inmate the Corsican mob and thus begins his descent into its servitude. Ironically, it is his position as their dirty Arab that provides his escape.

Propelled by stellar, stoic acting on Tahar Rahim's behalf, this story gripped me from blinded beginning to free end. Throughout the film you empathize with Malik. He's as much if not more a victim of his environment as he is a Machiavellian strategist gripping all opportunities available to him. It's not always pleasant to watch his endeavors, but they have an authenticity, a type of logic, that is followed until the end.

An amazing film that has made a fan where previously only an aversion to its subject matter existed, Un Prophéte deserves all the praise it gets.

'A Prophet' settles it: Jacques Audiard is the best filmmaker working today. His previous two films (Read My Lips, The Beat That My Heart Skipped) were superb, but 'A Prophet' is his best creation so far. For me, it's the best film of 2009. It was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film but was beaten out by El Secreto De Sus Ojos (The Secret in Their Eyes). I'll reserve judgment until I see that one, too, but it's hard to believe it's a better movie than Audiard's.

As another reviewer aptly notes on these pages, 'A Prophet' has more than subtle shades of 'The Godfather.' French Arab Malik (an amazing Tahar Rahim) starts the movie as a callow 19-year-old entering prison. Quickly, he's selected to carry out a hit by the Corsican gang that rules the prison. The hit itself is excruciatingly intense movie-making. The pressure was suffocating. [At least one fellow movie-goer left the theater and didn't return.]

After carrying out that task, Malik is protected by César Luciani (an equally mesmerizing Niels Arestrup) leader of the Corsicans in prison. In fact, Luciani effectively runs the prison. Thus begins a life for Malik in which the Corsicans see him as an Arab and the Arabs as a Corsican. But Malik proves himself more than an errand boy. As Malik is told by the character Reyeb, "the idea is to come out smarter than you came in." Reyeb is talking about book-smart intelligence, and while Malik does take and excel at literacy training Reyeb's epigram holds deeper meaning as well. Malik slowly builds confidence, bravado and cunning to the point where he's running a massively complicated scheme (both in and out of prison) in which he expertly plays off four sides against each other.

As we watch Malik's transformation, we see the transformation of the prison yard as well. César learns too well that you can't fight demographics. Starting with a band of 20+ loyalists, he first watches his team gutted by a Sarkozy decree moving a bulk of the Corsicans to another institution. Then, the yard turns more Arab. César starts relying on Malik more than he'd like. And when Malik puts his jaw-dropping in/out double-cross game into play, the last of César's inner circle turns on itself.

In thinking about this film, I realized just what a massive undertaking Audiard has unfolded story-wise. In even trying to capture the essence of all the critical plot points, this review could easily extend for pages. At the two-hour mark, I thought: "wow, it's going to take at least another 30 minutes to resolve all this drama." Sure enough, the movie clocks in at 2 hours 35 minutes. It's worth every minute of your time to see this masterpiece of cinema.

Buy A Prophet (2009) Now

If there is one thing I have appreciated about Jacques Audiard's work, you know you're in for a cinematic treat. I enjoyed his 1999 film "Venus Beauty Institute" (Vénus beauté institut), his 2001 film "Read My Lips" (Sur mes lèvres) and repeated his success with his 2005 film "The Beat That My Heart Skipped" (De battre mon coeur s'est arrêté) and in 2009, Audiard returned with "Un prophète" (A Prophet) which is based on the original screenplay by Abdel Raouf Dafri and Nicolas Peufaillit and rewritten by Audiard and Thomas Bidegain.

The film would receive critical praise and would go on to receive an Academy Award nomination in 2009, a winner of the 2009 Cannes Film Festival Grand Prix , won "Best Picture of the Year" at the London Film Festival and would join two films in the history of the César Awards by being nominated for 13 awards and the third film in French cinema history to win 9 or more César awards (the last two films was the 1980 film "The Last Metro" and the 1990 film "Cyrano de Bergerac").

VIDEO:

"A Prophet" is presented in 1080p High Definition (1:85:1 aspect ratio). I've commented with nearly every Sony Blu-ray release of how these last two years have been fantastic in terms of overall presentation and quality. The picture quality for "A Prophet" is absolutely wonderful. You can see the detail of the grime around the prison, the weaves of fabric on the clothing, the scratches, cuts, wrinkles and skin pigmentation in HD and a color pallet that is full of detail and depending on the scene, great use of colors to showcase the cold prison life to the vibrant outdoor (and out of prison) scenes.

There is a fine layer of grain throughout the film and blacks are nice and deep. Overall, a magnificent presentation from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment with no signs of artifacting, edge enhancement or any other negative anomalies.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

"A Prophet" is presented in French and German 5.1 DTS-HD MA. Although the film is primarily dialogue driven and thus sound coming from the front and center channels, you do hear the prison ambiance through the surrounds. For example, when Malik is working at the sewing shop, you can hear the machines through the surrounds. And you also get good use of the surrounds during the more action driven sequences such as the shooting scenes or a person being kicked and beaten.

The film also utilizes music such as its primary score courtesy of Alexandre Desplat ("The Twilight Saga: New Moon", "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", "Lust Caution", "The Valet", etc.). Desplate does a wonderful job with the score in developing the overall somber mood of the film. Also, the film utilizes modern hip hop and rock tracks which is deep with bass and quite clear through the front channels.

Subtitles are presented in English, English SDH, French, German and Turkish.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

"A Prophet" comes with the following special features (in standard definition, French stereo and with English and German subtitles):

* Commentary with Director Jacques Audiard, Actor Tahar Rahim and Co-Writer Thomas Bidegain An audio commentary track which gives you really good insight of the film, working with the various cast members, the technical issues of filming in a prison and more.

* Deleted Scenes (10:34) The film comes with four deleted scenes.

* Tahar Rahim & Adel Bencherif Rehearsal Footage (1:05) Tahar Rahim (Malik) and Adel Bencherif (Sayad) rehearsing.

* Tahar Rahim & Gilles Cohen Rehearsal Footage #1 (4:49) The first Tahar Rahim (Malik) and Gilles Cohen (Prof) rehearsal.

* Tahar Rahim & Gilles Cohen Rehearsal Footage #2 (3:07) The second Tahar Rahim (Malik) and Gilles Cohen (Prof) rehearsal.

* Screen Tests (5:00) Featuring five screen tests for Tahar Rahim (Malik).

* Theatrical Trailer (2:02) The original theatrical trailer for "A Prophet".

* BD-Live Enabled Register your disc with Sony for their awards points or preview upcoming Sony Blu-ray releases.

JUDGMENT CALL:

"A Prophet" is a film that is a fantastic film that is well-written, well-directed and more than anything, both Tahar Rahim and Niels Arestrup do a wonderful job with their role. Perfectly time interaction and the film while long at 155 minutes, was well-written and helped develop the characters, especially Malik's journey as the quiet prisoner to seeing him evolve into something quite different.

Needless to say, "A Prophet" is a survival film. Malik does all he can to survive within the next six years and that is by remaining close to the Corsican mafia (who treat him like a dog because he's Arabic) while trying to keep his reputation cool among the Arabs. If anything, we learn first hand of how difficult it is for Malik as he must obey Luciani in order to survive the corrupted prison system but also making sure to maintain communication with other people in prison to ensure the success of his business and also helping those who are with him.

With that being said, the film does have its share of violent moments and for the faint-hearted, especially for those who don't like seeing blood, this film does have a very bloody scene. One scene has Malik being trained by the Corsican mafia on how he is to kill Reyeb. In the scene, Malik is to pretend he is about to give Reyeb oral but with a blade hidden in his mouth, Malik has to slice the carotid artery on Reyeb's neck. Let's just say that things get bloody in this scene.Other scenes feature Malik being kicked in the ground, punched, nearly eye gouged.

But these scenes are necessary to show how a man can change in prison and it has a psychological toll on Malik as he begins to see the man he has killed in his room and begins to have a conversation with him. May it be guilt and this man haunts Malik's inner conscience but the truth is, while in prison and with no one to trust but his one friend Ryad (played by Adel Bencherif), all Malik has is this ghost of Reyeb. Possibly to remind him of his innocence that was stripped away by the Corsican mafia. We see how this man go from this silent loner, we see him evolve to a new kind of man and everything plays out quite wonderfully at the end.

There have been a good number of well-created prison films in the past 50 years such as "Grand Illusion", "The Shawshank Redemption", "Le Trou", "Stalag 17', etc. With most dealing with prison escapees to police or someone disguising themselves as prisoners trying to obtain information from a criminal. And while survival in prison has been featured in a variety of films, "A Prophet" is probably the first film in which a writer and director has attempted (and in this case succeeding) in depicting one man's survival while being in the most corrupted and dangerous place to be. Having to lean on those who want to use you, corrupt you and rob you of your innocence and thus changing you in the process.

This is one grueling journey for the protagonist and at 155-minutes, it's definitely a film that requires one's patience. As for its title, "A Prophet" comes from one of the crime bosses in which Malik has to meet (which Luciani has arranged with his people in the outside). Malik has a dream the night before about driving and seeing a lot of deer and a deer sign and sure enough, while in the car with the crime boss, he quickly remembers the deer by seeing the deer sign and warns the people in the car that they are about to get into an accident. The car manages to hit only one but Malik's warning enables him to save the lives of the criminals, the crime boss asks Malik how he knew those deer were coming and if he is some kind of prophet.

The title has nothing to do with Malik having dreams that come true (with the exception of the deer incident) but more or less, a man who learns the hard way of survival from a top mafia boss and learns about the shady practices of well-connected criminals in the prison system and eventually utilizing the things he has learned and making the best out of it.

Although the film has received mostly positive reviews, there are some who challenge the film's plot of Malik being able to leave the prison system for "leave days" which are given to low-incident criminals. With Luciani's connection with the warden and the outside, Luciani depends on Malik handling some business for him while on his leave day.

Donald Levit of "ReelTalk Movie Reviews" writes, "Malik may have a plan or may wing it, but too many things fly too fast and furiously -a first, seconds-long airplane ride (nicely done); a mosque and imam, cached kilos and Egyptians; a highway deer-crossing sign and an outdoor beach restaurant lunch; an increasing Muslim prison population and transfers or releases for fifteen of the twenty Corsicans; a bafflingly complicated and carried out Mace attack and van rub out."

Levit does have a point but I believe that is why the duration of the film was long. Director and writer Jacques Audiard and co-writer Thomas Bidegain wanted to show how powerful the Corsican mafia boss César Luciani truly is. We see this man having access to the best cell, television, food, clothing and even having access to a hidden cell phone. We know that the warden has been aiding Luciani and of course, whenever someone from the outside is meeting with him, he is literally conducting business and uses Malik and his weakness and fear in doing these jobs (which can easily get himself killed). But Luciani is well-connected and is able to make things happen for Malik in the outside world.

A lot of things do happen in the second half of the film and I can see where Donald Levit is coming from with his assessment of the scenarios. He also comments on the many players in the film. And yes, there are many players in the prison system that Malik has to interact with in the film. But in the end, all that matters is Malik's business relationship with Luciani and his business relationship and friendship with Ryad.

As for the Blu-ray release, this is a solid release from Sony Pictures Classics. The picture quality is fantastic and although audio-wise, this is not a film that utilizes the surround channel in full-effect and is primarily dialogue-driven, you do get a good number of special features. The deleted scenes offers more insight to the film that can easily be added to the film and would make sense but in terms of pacing and duration time, at 155-minutes, I think by adding these scenes may be a bit overkill for viewers.

I suppose if I had to be nitpicky and what prevents this Blu-ray release from receiving a 5-star is that I was hoping to see some sort of featurette of the making of the film. Sony Pictures Classics definitely set the ladder high with their Blu-ray release of "The White Ribbon" with its number of awesome and lengthy special features. For "A Prophet", the screen tests and rehearsals were fine but for a film of this caliber, it would have bee nice to see a featurette on the making of this film or clips from the César Awards where it the film would become the first in nearly three decades to win nine César awards (and nominated for 13). But again, that's me being nitpicky.

Overall, "A Prophet" is a magnificent film and I hope it will encourage many cinema fans who are not familiar with Jacques Audiard's films to go out and search his previous films. In the case of "A Prophet", definitely compelling cinema that is thought-provoking, raw and violent but easily another well-crafted masterpiece from Jacques Audiard.

Highly recommended!

Read Best Reviews of A Prophet (2009) Here

Malik was a homeless Arab teen living on the streets of Paris when he's sent to jail for six years for assaulting a police officer. On the inside, a Corsican crime lord finds Malik's Arab heritage useful to him and forces Malik to do his "dirty work." And thus Malik begins to unlock his potential as a criminal mastermind. "A Prophet" is not as epic in scope or as rich in characters as gangster films such as "Goodfellas" or "City of God," but it is nonetheless an entertaining look at how it took prison to turn one man into a criminal.

The soundtrack is also excellent and highly recommended. It has one of the most original covers of "Mack the Knife" you'll ever hear.

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Jacques Audiard's 'A Prophet' is a mesmerizing drama. It manages to combine the elements of a prison film with the excitment of a crime thriller and despite it's two and a half hour length is gripping from start to finish.

The plot of 'A Prophet' follows the six year prison sentance of an Arab named Malik. Malik is quiet and illiterate but is given protection by the Corsican mafia if he helps them with their Arab rivals. After performing a murder, Malik is haunted by his victim's ghost as he gains repect from the Corsicans but decides to start making some plays for himself and forms his own connections in the criminal world. After gaining some power Malik pits both mafia gangs against each other. The story is very long and very violent with some plot threads that seem underdeveloped, but watching Malik change from shy-loner to self-assured kingpin is absolutely mesmerizing.

The acting in 'A Prophet' is fantastic as every characterization comes across so naturally you'd swear you were watching a documentary. Tahar Rahim is the obvious stand-out as Malik and deserves all the recognition he gets. Equally good is Niels Arestrup as the Corsican mob boss who starts to trust Malik but can't quite put a finger on his motives.

The film work in 'A Prophet' is excellent and the gritty prison shots will remind alot of people of HBO's 'Oz'. These scenes are perfectly contrasted to the ones shot outside the prison as the character Malik earnes 12-hour parole days (which he uses to carry out the mafia work). He feels the relief of wind on his face and you're feeling it with him. There's even some great camera shots as the director mixes quick-action cuts and slow tension building ones. This is the work of a professional!

As I said before 'A Prophet' is long film but is so engaging you wont notice. Some character story's seem a bit unresolved but I think that goes hand-in-hand with the movie's ominous ending. If you're a fan of french crime film and don't mind some prison drama mixed in 'A Prophet' is a must see!

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X-Men Trilogy (X-Men / X2: X-Men United / X-Men: The Last Stand) (2011)

I got to hand it to Fox, they really mastered this blu-ray trilogy. I was unimpressed by the lack of the Spider-man trilogy's special features. I think anything being re-released onto blu-ray should have something new besides video and sound quality. This box set is almost overloaded with features that kept me watching for hours and hours.

I found some of the features to repeat themselves, but for the most part they were worthwhile. My absolute favorite was the one-hour special on the history of X-men comics found on the X3 special features disc. I felt that alone gave me the ultimate satisfaction for purchasing this set. I had the previous dvd copies, and this was a huge step in the right direction. Thank you Fox!

Your blu-ray quality is about what you would expect for the series. The first movie was in 2000 so I was most interested in that transfer. X-men had the most apparent positive transfer. The other films have your standard blu-ray quality. I wouldn't necessarily rate the films individually because you have all seen them by this point. It is a great trilogy, with a rough third part. I enjoyed the Singer movies a lot more than Brett Ratner's take.

If you're looking for a feature-packed blu-ray boxed-set this is a must have. Don't buy in to those empty box trilogies they put out with nothing on them. They will release a better version in time and it will aggravate you that you didn't wait. I give my example on the Spider-man trilogy. Will all these movies being such great hits, I can comparitively say that 20th Century Fox really did us justice on this release, and I hope more distribution companies recognize the bar that they have set. Remember for those of you who dislike the features in the first place, it makes everyone happy to have an abundance of them. The regular movie watchers can watch the film occasionally and be done. Then the nerds like me can watch all the features and get our moneys' worth. Putting out these box sets with nothing on them only satisfies a certain audience. The X-men Trilogy has paved a path for future franchise blu-rays to follow.

This is a great DVD set for anyone who are fans of the films. These are three great films with memorable charecters, fantastic special effects and action sequences as well as some very witty humor. They are also a great social commentary on todays society.

here is what this set contains

DISC 1X-Men

-2.35:1 Anamorphic Widescreen presentation

-Deleted Scenes

-Charlie Rose Interview

-Mutant Watch featurette

-Hugh Jackman Screen Test

-Storyboards

-Art Gallery

-Animatics

-Trailer

DISC 2X2: X-Men United

-2.35:1 Anamorphic Widescreen presentation

-Commentary by Director and Cinematographer

-Commentary by Producers and Writers

DISC 3X-Men: The Last Stand

-2.35:1 Anamorphic Widescreen presentation

-Commentary by Director and Writers

-Commentary by Producers

-Deleted Scenes with optional Director Commentary

-Alternate Endings with optional Director Commentary

BUY THIS DVD SET!

Buy X-Men Trilogy (X-Men / X2: X-Men United / X-Men: The Last Stand) (2011) Now

Well, you know how good the movies are, so the big question is 'is the transfer worth the added expense of buying blu-ray?'. The answer is yes.

The transfers are crisp and clear and wonderful in their visual detail. The sound is revelatory. The packaged price saves you money. That should be all you need to know.

Read Best Reviews of X-Men Trilogy (X-Men / X2: X-Men United / X-Men: The Last Stand) (2011) Here

While it'd be impossible for any films to do justice to Marvel's legendary team of super-powered mutants, I really feel that these films are almost as good an adaptation as we could have hoped for. The casting was strong, the action was solid, most of the characters were portrayed memorably, and the stories largely stayed true to the spirit of the X-men. The first film felt a little rushed due to the sheer number of characters introduced, but all things considered it was a very enjoyable film for both the uninitiated and old-school X-fans. Hugh Jackman was spot-on as Wolverine, the most iconic X-man and arguably the hardest to cast and Famke Jansen was a fantastic Jean Grey for at least the first two films. Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellan (Magneto), and Rebecca Romjin-Stamos (Mystique) also delivered outstanding performances playing their respective comic icons. The story was a nice update of the comics and followed Rogue's induction into Professor X's school for mutants and Magneto's first big terrorist attack on mankind. All-in-all, a satisfying start to the series. The second film really kicked the series into gear and introduced more of our favorite X-men, including Nightcrawler (whose opening sequence was the highlight of the film), Pyro, and Iceman. The story involves Wolverine's past and the government's attempts to control the ever-growing mutant population. The result was one of the greatest comic book films ever made that firmly cemented the developing series as one to watch. For some ridiculous reason, at this point the powers that be decided that the third film would be the last. This was a bad choice that made no kind of sense, upset the films' fans, and severly hurt the quality of the third film. Ah, the third film; a mixed bag to say the least. The plot deals with two classic storylines involving a cure for mutants and the legendary Dark Phoenix. My personal list of complaints is a long one, but I'll just hit a few in this review. "X-men: The Last Stand" tries to cram two movies' worth of material into one film that is too short to begin with. The introduction of the Phoenix was obviously forced and no care was taken in this storyline which is one of the all-time classics in comic history, and the result is several pointless character deaths and gaps in logic, like why an all-powerful entity is content to hang out at an aging terrorist's side and just look menacing for most of the story. The series' former darling, Rogue, is reduced to a brooding plot-nuisance, has no real influence on the story, plus she never gains the fantastic powers she obtained in the comics that made her such a powerhouse of a character and a personal favorite of mine. On the other hand, more classic characters are given parts such as fan-favorite Kitty Pride and Collossus (both of which had cameos in X2), Angel, Multiple Man, Beast (played nicely by Kelsey Grammer), and the almighty Juggernaut (whose battle with Kitty was as awesome as it was unexpected). But as many characters as there were that made it into the three films, there were so many great ones that were reduced to either tiny, unnamed cameos in the series, or forgotten altogether. No Gambit, Emma Frost, Sinister, Apocalypse, Scarlet Witch, or Havok to name just a few. Furthermore, the final film's resolution in extremely unsatisfying and leaves little doubt that this franchise as we know it is dead, though they do leave us a glimmer of hope. There are talks of Wolverine and Magneto spin-offs and possibly a New Mutants project; promising ideas, but hardly a substitute for the ensemble we know and love. Still, in the end, I really did enjoy X3 as a film as it did have several great stand-up-and-cheer moments; it just upset me as a fan of the comics and as a fan of the the movies because there wss so much more that could have and should have been done with this series. In the end, whether you're a fan of the comics, the cartoons, or just a fan of sci-fi or fun movies in general, you really shouldn't miss out on these three movies. The series is full of memorable characters, fantastic battles, sly humor, references for hard-core fans, and, of course, the classic X-men social commentaries about discrimination and the importance of both individuality and cohesiveness. There doesn't appear to be much in the way of special features from the first two films on this edition; but for about $10 a flick, I'll let it slide since it is still a hell of a bargain. Highly recommended set.

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Finally the X-Men moves made their transfer to hi-def and they look great. Nothing like seeing Wolverine go crazy on some baddies. The first of the films has the lowest ratio at 2.35:1 and looks a little less crisp than the other 2 films but still has good color and the black levels look great.

For those complaining that Fox is double dipping because they already released the 3rd film on Blu-ray. Well your in luck. You can buy the other discs separately. The new copy of the last stand is an even better transfer visually then the first version. So for those HD lovers out there it looks better.

If you already own the Last Stand on blu-ray this box set is still worth the price as it also includes digital copies of all 3 films.

Make mine Marvel

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Quartet (2012)

Here is a cast to die for, playing characters in a home for retired opera singers; they are preparing for their annual celebration of Verdi's birthday. But there is a "spanner (wrench) in the works" when a former diva arrives, in the person of Maggie Smith. Based on the play by Ronald Harwood and directed by first-timer Dustin Hoffman, this delicious PG-13 comedy bathes us in classical music, witty dialogue and a lovely setting. In fact the opening credits include some of the finest editing I've had the pleasure to enjoy in recent years. Kudos to Barney Pilling for the film editing; Ben Smith for the art direction; and Dustin Hoffman for respecting the music.

The world of opera is a relatively small one, so it is no surprise that a few of these divas and divos have a shared "history," and therein lies our tale.

Let's look at some of this wonderful cast:

* Maggie Smith ("Downton Abbey") is Jean, who always had at least 12 curtain calls but hasn't been in the spotlight for far too long!

* Michael Gambon ("Harry Potter") is Cedric, in charge of the star-studded gala, with a towering ego of his own.

* Billy Connolly ("Brave") is Wilf, proof positive that an old horn dog never quits sniffing around.

* Tom Courtenay ("Gambit") is Reggie, a kind, considerate fellow who is still nursing a broken heart.

* Pauline Collins ("You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger") is Cissy, the sweet busybody who can't think of one bad thing to say about anyone.

Just a couple of important tips: 1) If you have any hearing problems, either see this in a theater that features closed captions, or wait for the DVD with Amazon.com so you can turn on the subtitles. 2) Be sure to stay through the final credits because Mr Hoffman generously included the faces of many of the performers, along with a head shot of that same performer during his or her heyday. What a beautiful finale!

Beecham House, the setting of this film, is an English country estate, a posh historical mansion surrounded by acres of park and garden. It's autumn, the leaves are gorgeous, Golden Pond was never so scenic, and the inhabitants -a couple dozen octogenarian "retired professional musicians living on charity -are effectively in Paradise. They're a handsome crowd too, these oldsters with much of their talent and all of their ego intact. Not an oxygen tank or a movable chemo-drip in sight! Alzheimer's, senility, dementia? Acknowledged but quaintly innocuous. Crotchets and squabbles? No worse than among younger folk. A doctor in residence and a staff of sympathetic nurses? Hey, nothing but the ritz for beloved stars of yestershow! A real place? Don't we wish, we soon-to-be-aged musicians! It's fantasyland, but I'm NOT complaining. The film is too visually luscious not to be appreciated, and the acting is too artful not to be admired.

Bill Connolly has the "Peter Pan" role as Wilfred, the irrepressible flirt and funster of Beecham House. Pauline Collins is the sparkly but memory-challenged Cecily, the perfect Tinkerbell to run errands and deliver messages in this musical Neverland. Tom Courtenay is Reginald, earnest and unimpaired though subtly challenged by his own realism in this kingdom of Children Who Decline to Grow Old. Maggie Smith is the haughty, acerbic narcissistic super-diva Jean, to whom falls the Captain Hook role of antagonist. We the audience all know that she'll be captured eventually, conquered by joie de vivre, and join the Lost Boys in their climactic gala rumpus. Great fun! Who doesn't love Peter Pan?

"Getting old is what people do," says Reginald somewhere in the middle of the film, and ain't that the bleary-eyed truth! I've seen three movies in real theaters this winter -Quartet, A Separation, and Michael Haneke's devastating Amour -all of them focusing my 71-year-old attention on aging and dying. Is this some kind of omen? Foreboding? A warning shot across the bow of my walker? I won't grow up! I won't grow up! Peter? Tinkerbell? Where are you now that I need you?

Perhaps Dustin Hoffman is the J.M. Barrie of our generation.

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I'm not sure if you have to be over the hill (as I am), to love this movie (as I did) about a home for retired musicians, but it certainly appears that way to me after coming home and reading A. O. Scott's middling New York Times review and its online reader responses, which seem to be either total disdain or absolute delight and nothing in between.

It probably helps to have a lifelong love of classical music, especially opera, with just a smidgen of Gilbert & Sullivan & vaudeville mixed in.

While, as expected, Maggie Smith, Pauline Collins, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly and Michael Gambon are superb in the leading roles, the supporting player-musicians, who also inhabit the beautiful, scenic Beecham House, some of whom are familiar faces but most of whom I'd never heard of, are a joy to behold as well. Please be sure to stay for the closing credits where you'll see headshots of each of them as they are now and as they were in a key role from their heydays.

No one sums it up better than Ann Hornaday in her rave review in the January 24, 2013 Washington Post: "Smoothly navigating the perilous line between insufferably twee and heartbreakingly grim, "Quartet" is a subtle, sure-footed delight -made all the more enjoyable by the fact that it was directed by a 75-year-old first-timer named Dustin Hoffman. Judging from this debut, the kid's got a future."

RE THE DVD EXTRAS: There's a batch of short clips of the leading actors talking about the movie and what it was like to work with Hoffman. But my fave is Hoffman's commentary track. You get the impression of an old friend sitting alongside you with his feet up, filling you in on the story behind the creation of these scenes, how they found all those wonderful old musicians for the supporting roles, sharing anecdotes about the actors and production challenges, pointing out how much of what's on screen was in the script and how much (quite a lot) was improvised. (Example: Pauline Collins's request--which was granted--that she adapt and play her character as being in the early stages of dementia, modeled on her own real-life mother.) It's great fun to go back to the movie for another look with DH's insights and anecdotes and backgrounders in mind.

I'm thinking this DVD might make just the right double feature for "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel."

Read Best Reviews of Quartet (2012) Here

"Quartet" (2012 release; 97 min.) is not to be confused with that other recent classical music-themed movie called "A Late Quartet" (more on that later). This movie brings the story of Beecham House, a place in England that is "Home for Retired Musicians", but more accuratly very gifted musicians. All is well at Beecham House until the arrival of a new retiree, Jean Horton (played by Maggie Smith), once a very famous operetta singer. On top of that, also living at Beecham House is her ex-husband of many years ago, Reginald "Reg" Paget (played by Tom Courtenay). The annual gala (providing much needing funds for the continuing existance of Beecham House) is coming up, and the question is whether Jean and Reg, along with Wilf (played by Billy Connolly) and Cissy (played by Pauline Collins) will reunite as a quartet from many years ago to bring Verdi's Rigoletto.

Several comments: noteworthy, this is the debut of Dustin Hoffman as a director. Why it has taken him this long to go beyond the camera I don't know, but better late than never (hey, he's a spring chicken at a mere mid-70s!). The acting performances are a delight pretty much from start to finish, even with Maggie Smith playing a mostly unlikable character (Jean is a "prima donna" for most of the movie, pining for her golden years of success and asking herself "why do we have to get old?"). The movie is correctly billed as a comedy-drama. When it stays light-hearted, the movie plays great, but when it goes for the drama angle, the movie falters badly, and the end of the movie is utterly predictable. (But stay for the end credits! We get to see who among those at Beecham House in the movie were real-life musicians and what they did back then. One of the best surprises of the movie.)

The proof is in the pudding: when I saw it in the theatre here in Cincinnati last weekend, the audience (of mostly seniors, I might add) lapped it up with chuckles and all-out laughter during the lighter moments of the movie (typical example: Reg reminisces to Jean 'I took 12 curtain calls' to which Jean immediately replies 'no you didn't, you took 9 and I took 12'). In the end, the movie was fine but it doesn't make a lasting impression. This is in contrast to that other recent quartet movie I mentioned ("A Late Quartet", starring Philip Seymour Hoffman and Christopher Walken), which I absolutely loved. That aside, classical music is front and center in both these movies, so if you're not into classical music, save yourself the trouble.

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Dustin Hoffman's "Quartet," from Ronald Harwood's screenplay, takes the middle ground between "Amour" and "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel." Like "Amour," it depicts the infirmities of old age honestly. But like "Marigold Hotel," it takes an upbeat view of its elderly characters, portraying their lives as triumphant rather than tragic.

There isn't much to the story, which takes place in Beecham House, an elegant but financially troubled home for retired musicians. The residents are planning their annual gala on Oct. 10, Verdi's birthday, the revenues from which comprise a good portion of Beecham House's operating funds. Cedric (Michael Gambon), the imperious director of the annual gala, has commanded Reggie (Tom Courtenay), Wilf (Billy Connolly) and Cissy (Pauline Collins) to persuade Jean (Maggie Smith), a famous diva newly arrived at Beecham House, to sing at the gala. Jean, Reggie, Wilf and Cissy made a legendary recording of "Rigoletto" many years before, and their singing the quartet from "Rigoletto" at the gala would guarantee a big enough attendance to keep the home open indefinitely. However, Jean is painfully conscious that her voice is no longer what it was, and angrily rejects her friends' entreaties.

There are further complications, the biggest is which is Jean and Reggie's painful romantic and marital history. Also, Wilf and Cissy are not well: Wilf has had a series of strokes, and Alzheimer's disease is tightening its grip on Cissy.

Despite the sorrows, however, the overall mood of "Quartet" is genial and celebratory. Michael Powell once said that the only important things in life are love and art, and both are worth dying for. Hoffman and Harwood show us characters for whom art--specifically, the art of music--has been their entire way of life. Between that art and the love they bear for each other, they can go, if not gently, at least with equanimity into that good night.

The final scenes of "Quartet" will leave you smiling through tears, but the final credits--which shows pictures of the various cast members in their prime--will have you bawling and applauding simultaneously. "Quartet" may not be an important film, but it is a sublimely satisfying one.

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Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)

Dreamworks' animated films have not been able to hold a candle to caliber of Disney/Pixar films, but let's face it: who can? That said, Madagascar 2 is learning from Pixar at the very least. Animated films work when they are able to successfully blend humor, heart, and a good story to keep the audience sustained for at least 90 minutes.

Madagascar 2 starts in the right direction by presenting a very nice opening featuring a brief origin of Alex and how he got to New York. It's probably less than 5 minutes, but already set the tone for the heart of the picture, which focuses chiefly on Alex fitting in with his fellow lions. The other chief characters are also stumbling as they interact with their own in Africa.

Also back is the humor. I sometimes feel like the movies would be funnier if the penguins had more screen time, but they are still funny in whatever scenes they're in. The granny who beat up Alex in the first film is also back for some humor. The humor is better and more consistent than the first.

The only flaw in the film is that it is fairly predictable. The chracters are a little bit better here than in the first and it has a good heart, but sometimes they don't spend as long on the emotional aspect as they could. It's still good entertainment and I like to see Dreamworks progress with their films.

note: this blue ray includes the nick penguins episodes available in the dvd 2 pack

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Wow. One could spend some serious paragraphs dissecting all that is great about this one. Clarity, picture, colors, sounds, extras they are all there.

As listed earlier, the much sought after Penguins episode is included on this BD, along with four music videos, fun games, trivia and plenty of material to give the kids some additional insight about all the that is Madagascar and all in hidef! Oh yeah, the story is funny and has lines to keep both the adults and kids entertained.

The movie has been a hit in the store and shows off any HD display beautifully. The sound and music are mixed very well but the animation clarity even shows through enough for kids to say how "totally cool" it looks. Just had a pre-school class of girls visit the store for a field trip and all 7 of them loved it.

Hope you enjoy...forgot to mention: I laughed out loud more than a few times, those penguins are great ("...you're all males..") gotta love it.

Read Best Reviews of Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008) Here

Surprisingly Madagascar Escape2Africa is as enjoyable as the first film, which these days of shoddy sequels of a feat unto itself. The Bluray transfer is excellent. Picture 5/5 Sound 4/5 (Because it is 5.1) My wife and kids loved the first film and were just as entertained by this one. Also the decision to include DVDs and not digital copies was a wise choice. Every other digital copy I try to download into iTunes fails because they are expired. Why oh why do the studios do this. Digital copies are splashed over the covers of DVDs and now Bluray. So kudos to Dreamworks for including proper DVDs. For those of us that have children and travel, at least me, love having a DVD to play in the minivan and my portable DVD player.

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After the Furious Five fiasco, Dreamworks has decided to give you all the goodies--and more--in the Blu-Ray release of Madagascar 2. Not only do you get the behind-the-scenes, commentary, and other extras of the DVD, you also get the two Penguin cartoons from the 2-pack DVD bundle...and...

Easter Eggs! Go to the Penguin episodes menu. Highlight an episode. Move the directional controller on your remote and a penguin appears! Each episode will let you slide off the menu to two penguins, for a total of four extra "short" animations that launch when you select the penguin.

The Penguin episodes (and shorts) are hilarious. The quality of the Blu-Ray version is eye-popping: while Kung-Fu Panda produces lots of color and detail, Madagascar 2 goes it one step further with some pretty amazing depth of focus. Some of the panning shots, for example, seem to pop off the screen.

In addition to all this, BD Live will connect you to other extras: we watched a pretty good short documentary about lions, for example. The way the menu is built makes me think there might be more to come.

If you haven't seen this movie yet, Madagascar 2 is a bizarre and hilarious sequel. It introduces new characters, keeps the favorites from the first, and adds yet more movie spoofs and references for the grown-ups, some of them obvious (the Lion King) and some more obscure (The In-Laws). If you're buying for a small child, chances are they might not follow the nuances of blu-ray: the DVD will upscale enough on most players. But for the best experience, this blu-ray is the version to buy.

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