Walt Disney Home Entertainment is proud to release Zorro, one of the most popular television shows in history on DVD November 3, 2009. The latest addition to the celebrated Walt Disney Treasures, Zorro, makes its fully restored black & white DVD debut. All 78 episodes of the timeless classic will be included on two new six-disc sets–making up the ninth installment of the popular Walt Disney Treasures, and for the first time, will be housed in collectible black, numbered unique tin cases. From 1957 to 1959, Disney’s Zorro was one of the most popular series on television starring Guy Williams, Henry Calvin, and Gene Sheldon. The show helped transform the literary character Don Diego de la Vega into the ultimate iconic, beloved swashbuckling masked hero of the time. The adventures of Zorro and his trusty steed Tornado have captivated audiences since their inception, gaining new audiences when it was re-aired on the Disney Channel in 1983 and re-colorizing the episodes in the 1990s. After the series conclusion, the Zorro adventures lived on from 1960 to 1961 on Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color in the form of a four-episode anthology series of hour-long Zorro specials, all of which are also included in Walt Disney Treasures Wave IX. Both debut Walt Disney Treasures sets are hosted by noted film historian, author and critic Leonard Maltin. Each limited edition, individually numbered volume includes a Zorro pin, an authenticity certificate, exclusive lithograph and comes in a unique, collectible black tin.
Introduced in 1957 via 30-minute dramas, which was typical for the time, the Disney series arrives on DVD in the Treasures series. Though the Zorro episodes have been available for some time, many fans of the show are probably wondering if the set is worth the not-so-cheap retail price. The answer is an emphatic yes…for collectors. Unlike past products from the Treasures line, the Zorro seasons have an astounding amount of material ( though it could have been more) with only a small hike in price of its predecessors. It’s actually a good deal.
Zorro is a very charming series and holds up well for its age. Reflective of its time with its simple “good guys vs. bad guys” motif, Zorro remains very engaging over five decades later due to Williams’ charisma, the humor derived from characters like the bumbling Sergeant Demetrio López García, and plenty of action, particularly sword-fighting. No doubt fans who grew up with the series will want to relive it, but there’s no reason the series shouldn’t make new fans. BONUS MATERIAL
Zorro: The Complete First Season Zorro: El Bandido – Part 1 of a 2-part story shown as a 1-hour-special on the Disneyland television show (original air date: October 30, 1960) Zorro: Adios El Cuchillo – Part 2 of a 2-part story shown as a 1-hour-special on the Disneyland television show (original air date: November 6, 1960)
Zorro: The Complete Second Season Zorro: The Postponed Wedding – A 1-hour special that originally aired on the Disneyland television show (original air date: January 1, 1961) Zorro: Auld Acquaintance – A 1-hour special that originally aired on the Disneyland television show (original air date: April 2, 1961)
In preparing for this review, I spoke with a lot of people regarding the Stargate brand. I was disheartened to discover that almost everybody seemed to associate Stargate with the multiple television spinoffs, and not the epic film that started the entire franchise. At least everyone can rediscover the original with this fantastic Blu-Ray, recently released by Studio Canal and Lionsgate in recognition of the movie’s fifteenth anniversary.
Described by director Roland Emmerich (Independence Day) as “Lawrence of Arabia on another planet,” Stargate was epic, blockbuster filmmaking. I remember going to the theater opening weekend and being blown away at the sheer scope of what I was seeing. Emmerich and his writing partner Dean Devlin presented a situation where wormholes leading to the “other side of the known galaxy” tied into Egyptian culture, including the mystery of the pyramids. Being a science-fiction fan who was semi-obsessed with all things Egyptian, I was thrilled with the ideas being presented.
The action was intense, the sets and special effects were huge and mind-blowing (for the time), the story was compelling, and the characters were memorable. This was what going to the movies was all about. Going back and watching the film again, it completely holds up. I remembered a lot of the set pieces and action sequences, but I was surprised at how solid the character work is. James Spader is completely believable as a nerdy Egyptian linguist, and Kurt Russell brings the perfect level of intensity to his role as a military leader…with a secret.
In watching the extras on this Blu-Ray, it’s easy to see what attracted them to the project. Everybody involved in the bringing this world to life comes across as very passionate about the material. It’s obvious that they were attempting something huge and that this was not simply about getting a paycheck. The features showcase the torturous shooting conditions that everyone had to endure, including temperatures in the 120’s. Yet despite these hardships, they were all in top form, knowing that they were creating something special.
The picture on this set is so stunning that I was noticing details I had never seen before. Patrick Tatopoulos, the special effects master who designed most of the iconic images in the film, did a brilliant job of utilizing Egyptian motifs in a completely unique way. I have always admired his work on the film, but it really shines on this set. His designs help to carry the picture, and the extras emphasize what an asset to the production he really was. It is fascinating to watch his process, and to get a closer look at the finished results.
Most of the extras are of the standard making-of variety. Incorporating new and old footage, these documentaries really demonstrate what an amazing film this is. All aspects of the film are explored, ranging from specific sequences to the long-term societal impact. There is even a section addressing the popularity of the Stargate television shows (I have never seen them). The only real misfire on the disc is a silly little segment about some random guy who travels the world trying to prove aliens have visited Earth. I don’t know why they felt the need to include this; they had more than enough material already.
This Blu-Ray contains the original theatrical cut, as well as the Unrated extended version. There are some nice extra moments on the extended cut, but they’re not entirely necessary. They would probably have worked better as deleted scenes you could watch independently of the film. There is also a picture-in-picture trivia track, a commentary from Devlin and Emmerich, and a “gag reel” that is actually a pretty funny single-take short film showing everybody goofing off on set. Overall, I love this release. It reminds me exactly why I loved this film as a teenager, and I really hope that it helps more people to discover one of the best science-fiction films of the nineties.
Walt Disney’s A Christmas Carol is one intense rollercoaster ride intended more for an intelligent adult audience than past adaptations.Robert Zemeckis director of such greats as Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Back to the Future has done a wonderful job at the retelling of this holiday classic.Every scene is absolutely gorgeous and the graphics just stunning!This is no Polar Express, which is also directed by Zemeckis.Instead the film retains the powerful themes and dark scenes more true to Charles Dickens original story.The story is not dumbed down for a younger audience, which may lead to several problems for this Disney picture.Nonetheless, Walt Disney’s A Christmas Carol is truly astonishing in every aspect except you may want to leave the young children at home.
Zemeckis has decided to write a script with more realism to the time period with much dialogue that will be over children’s heads.The beginning is quite slow unless you can really follow everything that’s being said.Scrooge is introduced well as Zemeckis spends a decent amount of time getting to know Scrooge’s true character.Much of the dialogue is witty and smart, but it won’t be the dialogue the audience will be focusing on.The imagery is far more overpowering than anything else in the film.
The animation from the beginning is jaw-dropping.I was astonished by every scene, every action sequence and every close-up of every character.I would have completely forgot I was watching an animated movie if it wasn’t for the effects being so amazing causing me to constantly be in awe of every bit of footage being projected.All the shots are incredibly beautiful and grand.No detail was spared here.It was when we take our first flight through the snow covered city rooftops that I found myself totally immersed in the film.
With groundbreaking 3D technology along with large scale scenery, the viewer will not just feel they are a part of the film, but are actually seeing every scene as a bystander in each shot.Robert Zemeckis and Producers Steve Starkey and Jack Rapke actually have developed performance capturing technology called ImageMovers Digital specifically for Walt Disney Studios.This is the first film they have used ImageMovers and it’s quite noticeable.
As I said earlier, this is not anything like past holiday classic Polar Express, which also used motion capture technology with CGI applied over every character.A Christmas Carol is far more advanced and detailed than Zemeckis previous attempt.The possibilities are far vaster by using this technique.Case and point: actors can play multiple characters with different animation applied to each one making them appear completely different.
Jim Carrey plays several characters all with their completely different personalities and looks.None of this would have been able to be accomplished in live-action or even traditional computer animated films.Sure, they could have animated all his characters differently, but with motion capturing Carrey was able to act out every role capturing his every movement and facial movements.
Every character did a phenomenal job, but it is Jim Carrey’s physical acting and voice play that really stood out.I am even willing to say that this is Jim’s best performance I have ever seen!Yes, that good.His range of characters in this film is extremely different from one another and I couldn’t imagine any other actor being able to pull these performances off like he did.His Scrooge performance portrayed the old money-grubbing, uncaring rude geezer perfectly.Carrey also plays younger Scrooges along Ghost of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come.
Ghost of Christmas Present was another stand-up performance for Carrey.This jolly Santa-like laughing character brings a very whimsical setting and continues the thrill-ride as Scrooge is led to different people to get his reality of himself in check.As we fly through the city to different houses, the impact he has on these families is portrayed very emotionally as Scrooge begins to realize who he has become.
All the performances were fantastic though.Gary Oldman does a remarkable job as Bob Cratchit, young Marley, Marley’s ghost and Tiny Tim.His stand out role was the quite frightening Marley’s ghost.This was another quite physical character and Oldman delivered a unique performance.Bob Hoskins has reunited with Zemeckis since being Eddy Valiant in Who Framed Roger Rabbit playing Scrooge’s past apprenticed Old Fezziwig and Old Joe, a man who purchases the “deceased” Scrooge’s bed curtains.He was an absolute delight.Colin Firth also has a great performance as Scrooge’s nephew having some very quiet and intimate dialogue driven scenes with his uncle.
This is a timeless tale that has been told hundreds of times in the past.“A Christmas Carol” is a classic transformation story that we can’t grow tired of.Disney took an interesting direction for the studio on this film, but I believe it will succeed for an older audience.Zemeckis has managed to retell a story we all know too well while still creating a fresh movie-going experience.The story has a great moral that is good for all ages, but I’m afraid that much of the movie will be a little difficult for children to follow even though they will surely love the action.
The time spent with Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is definitely the most intense and scary portion of the film next to Scrooge’s visit from Marley’s ghost.At first I felt that the scene was a bit too much for the film, but I realized quickly that this was vital to have such a huge climax to make Scrooge’s drastic transformation in the end so believable.
Disney’s A Christmas Carol truly has it all from emotion, comedic relief, breathtaking scenery, amazing acting/voice-acting, and great action to create the best adaptation of this story I have ever seen.I was fortunate enough to see several scenes at an IMAX theater over the summer.If you are going to see this film, treat yourself by seeing it in IMAX.This film is already so spectacular and epic that it would only make sense seeing it on the largest screen possible.
This is a movie with fantastic eye-candy, and it has everything else that creates a great movie.I was impressed with the 3D by it being a means to tell the story and not just a gimmick.The 3D version is definitely the way to go.Don’t jip yourself.To all of those that are skipping this because it’s either Disney or an animated film, HUMBUG.
Starting Friday, Nov. 6, Disneyland guests will be treated to appearances by Princess Tiana, star of the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature film “The Princess and the Frog.”
Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and other characters from the motion picture will star in “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!,” a rousing, colorful procession with a jazz-filled Mardi Gras theme. The good times will roll as festively dressed, bead-tossing revelers lead Disneyland guests to the Mark Twain Riverboat dock. The party moves onboard as the Mark Twain paddlewheels its way along the river to singing, dancing and all that jazz.
Songs composed by Randy Newman for the film energize the show, which will be performed four times daily in New Orleans Square. Daytime pyrotechnics, colorful streamers and whimsical puppetry round out the 15-minute spirited production.
The experience will dazzle guests at Disneyland through Jan. 3, 2010. “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!” is also performing in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort, Florida, through Jan. 3, 2010.
Guests also will be able to greet Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen at designated times at the Court of Angels in New Orleans Square, Disneyland.
A hilarious movie adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana, “The Princess and the Frog” will open in limited release in New York and Los Angeles on Nov. 25, 2009, before expanding nationwide on Dec. 11, 2009.
Beginning Nov. 6, little princesses can enjoy a new Princess Tiana makeover in Disneyland at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Fantasyland. Fairy Godmothers sprinkle their pixie dust on aspiring princesses with three makeover packages including a combination of hair, nails and makeup. The royal transformation becomes complete with a package that includes the Princess Tiana costume, shoes, crown and more. Children must be at least three years or older to receive the regal treatments.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Fantasyland is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; theme park admission is required. Reservations may be made by calling 714/781-STYLE or 714/781-7895.
When guests age 10 or older enter a Disneyland theme park or Walt Disney World theme park from Oct. 5 through Nov. 22 and present their valid theme park ticket at select merchandise locations, they will receive a special card with details on how to get an admission voucher good for up to $8 toward the purchase of one child’s movie ticket when they purchase an adult movie ticket to see “The Princess and the Frog.” This offer is good at participating theaters from Dec. 11 through Dec. 31, 2009, or until “The Princess and the Frog” is no longer in theaters, whichever comes first.
Card quantities for this promotion are limited. Limit one card per adult ticket or annual pass. Admission voucher toward the purchase of a child’s movie ticket to “The Princess and the Frog” is valid for use from Dec. 11 through Dec. 31, 2009, at participating theaters in the fifty United States and District of Columbia. Guests must activate the code printed on the card by registering at www.activaterewards.com/frog to obtain an admission voucher. Only persons 18 or older may activate the code. Parent or legal guardian must activate certificate held by persons ages 10-17. Card, code and admission voucher may not be sold, traded, copied or replaced, or redeemed for cash. Admission voucher may not be transferred. The promotion is not valid for complimentary cast member theme park tickets. Offersubject to restrictions and change without notice. Visit www.hollywoodmoviemoney.comfor a list of participating theaters and further conditions and details.
A first-of-its kind water coaster that sends guests racing above the upper decks of the ship. An animated turtle that engages children in conversation about life in the ocean. A sophisticated lounge where the sun sets over the skyline of a different world-famous city each night. When the Disney Dream debuts in early 2011, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet will bring to life these innovations and more.
The Disney Dream will take family cruising to all-new heights, embracing the spirit of innovation, magical family entertainment and immersive experiences that have made Disney Cruise Line the preeminent cruise of choice for families since 1998.
Disney Cruise Line revolutionized the cruise industry with purpose-built ships designed just for families. With the Disney Dream setting sail on Jan. 26, 2011, preparations are underway to expand the one-of-a-kind family experience, utilizing technology to enhance the world-class entertainment and legendary guest services onboard. From stem to stern, the Disney Dream will offer a cruise experience that caters to the preferences of the whole family.
“For more than a decade, passengers have filled their passports with memories sailing around the world with Disney Cruise Line,” said Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo. “With the Disney Dream joining our fleet, we’ll be able to take families to even more places they never imagined they could visit – in true Disney style.”
The Disney Dream features a remarkable interior design which provides guests with a warm and welcoming feel throughout. The ship’s design offers guests a perfect blend of elegant Art Deco style and fun-filled Disney whimsy to create one of the most spectacular ships afloat. Distinctly Disney guest features aboard the Disney Dream include:
AquaDuck Water Coaster. . .
Disney Cruise Line debuts a cruise-industry first: a shipboard water coaster … AquaDuck! Guests aboard the Disney Dream will get swept away on an exhilarating high-speed flume ride featuring twists, turns, drops, uphill acceleration and river rapids – all while traversing the upper decks of the ship.
* AquaDuck stretches 765 feet in length – more than two and a half times the length of a football field – and spans four decks in height. * Guests slide 13 feet over the side of the ship in a translucent “swing out” loop allowing them to look down on the ocean 150 feet below. * Guests experience coaster-like thrills as high-powered water jets push them upwards and forwards at 20 feet per second. * AquaDuck continues through the forward funnel, encounters a 335 foot stretch of river rapids and splashes down to an end on Deck 12.
A Virtual Porthole for Inside Staterooms. . .
Disney Cruise Line introduces another stateroom innovation with all inside staterooms on the Disney Dream featuring a Virtual Porthole that provides guests with a real-time view outside the ship. High-definition cameras placed on the exterior of the ship feed live video to each Virtual Porthole.
As guests observe the impressive outside views, they may glimpse a magical surprise: animated characters such as Peach the starfish from the Disney•Pixar hit film “Finding Nemo,” or Mickey Mouse may pop by the Virtual Porthole.
A Magical Oasis for Children. . .
Only on a Disney Cruise Line ship can children become immersed in their favorite Disney stories with the help of caring counselors, beloved Disney characters and a sprinkling of pixie dust. The celebration of children’s creativity rises to a new level on the Disney Dream with nearly an entire deck of youth spaces designed to inspire, entertain and unlock the imagination of children. There are two main spaces for children ages three to 10:
At Disney’s Oceaneer Club, children can:
* Play among larger-than-life characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story” in Andy’s Room * Explore the Laugh Floor with loveable monsters Mike and Sully from “Monsters, Inc.” * Dive under the sea with Nemo and friends or visit Tinker Bell’s fairy forest
At Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, children feel as though they are embarking on a great seafaring adventure in a room filled with maps, maritime instruments and swashbuckling artifacts. Here, children can try their hand at animation, become a pop star or navigate ships through digital seas.
Both venues offer magical interactions with the animated characters such as Crush, the sea turtle from the Disney•Pixar motion picture “Finding Nemo” and Stitch, the mischievous alien from “Lilo and Stitch.” The characters chat, play and joke with children in live, unrehearsed conversations from their digital undersea and intergalactic environments via 103-inch plasma screens.
Chill-Out Zones for Tweens and Teens. . .
Located inside the forward funnel is Edge – the lounge just for tweens (ages 11 to 13). This tween pad is filled with a multitude of hi-tech entertainment including the ability to create and star in photo postcards and video karaoke using green-screen technology.
Teens have their own exclusive club aboard the Disney Dream with Vibe – a trendy and inviting indoor/outdoor space created especially for guests ages 14 to 17. A “teen-only” swipe card provides access to the nearly 9,000-square-foot club.
Teens can create and edit videos, play computer games, access the onboard social media application or try their hand at spinning and mixing dance tracks. Teens have their own private outdoor deck area with chaise lounges for sunbathing, two wading pools, misters and pop jets for cooling off, and deck games such as ping-pong and foosball.
Personal Touches with Rotational Dining. . .
Disney Cruise Line continues its innovative rotational dining concept onboard the Disney Dream with elaborately themed restaurants, distinctly Disney touches, and world-class cuisine to create a magical dining experience. Throughout the cruise, guests “rotate” through three different restaurants for dinner – with their servers accompanying them, providing guests with friendly, familiar, personalized service each night. The rotational dining restaurants include:
* Animator’s Palate, a signature Disney Cruise Line restaurant that brings the magic of Disney animation into the dining room for a unique experience that will captivate the entire family. * Royal Palace, an elegant restaurant inspired by the classic Disney films “Cinderella,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” ” Beauty and the Beast” and “Sleeping Beauty.” * Enchanged Garden, a whimsical casual restaurant inspired by the gardens of Versailles and featuring a dining environment that magically transforms from day to night.
Just for Adults. . .
On the Disney Dream, while children are having the time of their lives in the elaborately themed youth areas, adults can look forward to incomparable indulgences and relaxation with exclusive areas and offerings designed exclusively for them.
* Adults can escape in to The District, a nighttime entertainment area on the Disney Dream with five unique venues. This playground for grownups features sophisticated lounges, each with its own unique design, look, feel and palate-pleaseing delights. * Senses Spa & Salon offers adult tranquility with 17 private treatment rooms, lavish spa villas with indoor treatment rooms and private outdoor verandahs, and Rainforest, a special section of the spa offering the benefits of steam, heat and hydrotherapy to relax the mind and body. * At Palo, adult guests find epicurean excellence and an unforgettable dinner experience at sea. Every seat offers beautiful ocean vistas while a pianist softly serenades guests in an intimate restaurant setting.
The Disney Dream is scheduled to depart on its maiden voyage Jan. 26, 2011, and will sail alternating three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. During summer months, the ship will alternate four- and five-night itineraries with two stops at Castaway Cay. Guests can book their Disney Dream cruise beginning Nov. 9, 2009.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888/DCL-2500 or contact your travel agent.
Somewhere in there has to be a decent little girl, right? John, Esther’s father seems to see it, but we know better, the poster told us so. Orphan has all the pieces for a creepy kid horror movie, but they never seem to come together. The movie relies far to heavily on the BOO! scare. It seems every other minute, the film tries throw something at you to make you jump whether it makes sense or not. The film quickly becomes a game of peek-a-boo. Is there someone behind that curtain or isn’t there? Well, you’re going to find out and when you do, the camera is going to jerk really fast and there is going to be a really loud noise, so no matter what you’re going to jump. Apparently, this is the only thing that constitutes a scare. The sad part is how much this takes away from what would have potentially made this film scary, a creepy sadistic little girl.
Orphan is the story of a family who adopts an eight year-old, who is then able to manipulate them all against each other. This storyline is almost identical to the 2007 film Joshua, which also stars Vera Farmiga as the mother, only this time she’s the one being alienated by the child. Farmiga plays Kate who is the only one able to see that Esther is up to something, but is met with much skepticism from her husband. With no support Kate is unable to protect her family. Esther’s ability to manipulate and inflict pain on Kate is very haunting, but the scares get too gimmicky and they loose their potential.
The Blu-ray edition of Orphan is extremely light on supplemental content. There’s a “Bad Seeds and Evil Kids” featurette (HD, 15 minutes) that offers a generic overview of the film’s diminutive antagonist and other nasty kiddies throughout cinema history, and a collection of wisely cut “Deleted Scenes” (SD, 4 minutes), the only notable one being an alternate ending (which, after watching, you won’t find to be all that notable). Features: – Mama’s Little Devils: Bad Seeds and Evil Children: cast and crew reinvent the evil kid genre and discuss notable movie psychopaths – Additional scenes, including an alternate ending – BD-Live features – Limited time: Digital Copy of the film (compatible with iTunes and Windows Media; download code expires 10/27/10)
Get ready, for the dawn of a new age! Manny, Sid, Diego and Ellie are back for more pre-hysterical hijinks when Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs stomps onto Three-Disc Blu-ray Disc/DVD Combo Pack October 27 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. The third film in the outrageously popular Ice Age franchise, the sub-zero heroes return another wild and fun adventure. Scrat is still trying to nab the ever-elusive nut (while maybe finding true love); Manny and Ellie await the birth of their mini-mammoth; Diego the saber-toothed tiger wonders if he’s growing too “soft” hanging with his pals and Sid the sloth gets into trouble when he creates his own makeshift family by hijacking some dinosaur eggs.
On a mission to rescue the hapless Sid, the gang ventures into a mysterious underground world, where they have some close encounters with dinosaurs, battle flora and fauna, run amuck, and meet a relentless, one-eyed dino-hunting weasel named Buck. The coolest animated comedy of the year, Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs features hilarious performances from Ice Age veterans Ray Romano (“Everybody Loves Raymond”), John Leguizamo (The Happening), Denis Leary (“Rescue Me”), Queen Latifah (The Secret Life of Bees), Seann William Scott (Planet 51) and Josh Peck (“Drake & Josh”), along with newcomers Bill Hader (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), Kristen Wiig (“Saturday Night Live”), Jane Lynch (“Glee”) and Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead).
The point is kids won’t be worried about those details, and they shouldn’t be. Ice Age 3 is full of childish jokes, some fun action, and an simple morale they’ll be able to follow. Scrat, the little squirrel-like creature who is eternally chasing that ever elusive acorn, is back. While the children laugh at his antics there are a few things hidden in there for the adults to chuckle at too.
The Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs Three-Disc release includes the BD, DVD and Digital Copy and provides hours of extra fun for the entire family including an Ice Age digital story book maker, commentary by director Carlos Saldanha, deleted scenes, making-of featurettes, two special Scrat shorts, a how-to-draw Scrat tutorial with the filmmakers and much more.
“Ice Age: The Meltdown” is a fun romp that calls to mind the very best of the old Warner Brothers cartoons. In Blu-ray, it looks and sounds pretty incredible.
Three-Disc Blu-Ray Disc/DVD Combo Pack Special Features: Disc One: • Blu-ray Disc Feature Film • Ice Age Story Maker • Filmmaker Commentary • Evolution Expedition • Buck…Easel to Weasel • Falling for Scratte • Unearthing the Lost World • Two Unfinished Deleted Scenes • Walk The Dinosaur Music Video • Two Scrat Shorts o Gone Nutty – Scrat’s Missing Adventure o No Time For Nuts • The Sabre-Toothed Squirrel: Natures Nutty Buddy • Scrat: From Head To Toe – learn how to draw Scrat tutorial • Scrat: “Breaking Story” • Scrat: “News Report” • Fox Movie Channel Presents: In Character with John Leguizamo • Fox Movie Channel Presents: In Character with Ray Romano • Fox Movie Channel Presents: In Character with Queen Latifah • Fox Movie Channel Presents: Making A Scene • Fox Movie Channel Presents: Making A Scene (Ice Age 2)
Disc Two: • Digital Copy Disc Three: • Standard DVD Feature Film
In Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure Tinker Bell’s greatest adventure yet takes place in Autumn, as the fairies are on the mainland changing the colors of the leaves, tending to pumpkin patches, and helping geese fly south for the winter. The rare Blue Moon will rise, and when its light passes through the magical Fall Scepter that Tinker Bell has been summoned to create, Pixie Hollow’s supply of pixie dust will be restored. But when Tinker Bell accidentally puts all of Pixie Hollow in jeopardy, she must venture out across the sea on a secret quest to set things right.
Along her journey Tink meets new friends, including Blaze, a cute and courageous firefly that helps Tinker Bell complete her mission. It’s a long and dangerous journey, full of astonishing encounters, a few narrow escapes and a daring rescue by Tink’s friend Terence. Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure is an exciting adventure and a once-in-a-blue-moon experience for the entire family.
From a production standpoint, the film is top notch and completely belies its direct-to-DVD status. Thankfully, it is being released in Blu-ray format (in addition to DVD) to allow home viewers to get as close to a theatrical experience as currently possible. The Blu picture and sound are thrilling, with fine detail like the individual specks in swirls of pixie dust, crystal-clear depth of field in the highly-detailed Pixie Hollow, and immersive surround sound effects during the expansive adventures outside the Hollow that work together to fully bring the fantasy world to life.
The disc is jam-packed with bonus features including deleted scenes, footage from the recreation of Pixie Hollow on the grounds of Epcot Center, and the ubiquitous BD Live capability. Of special note are the Fairy Bloopers, basically alternate takes on a few of the key scenes that are similar to the old Pixar bloopers over their end credits. They’re genuinely funny and definitely worth seeking out.
Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure is now available on DVD and Blu-ray. The Blu-ray package includes both Blu and DVD versions of the film.
“Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure” provides some stunning visuals and a very competent audio track. The film is also better in story than the original. Disney has at least three more of these Tink films in production. The next one is called “Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue,” formerly called “Tinker Bell and the Midsummer Storm.” This next film is due out next year. I highly recommend this disc.
Bonus Materials • Scenes You Never Saw – These fairy funny alternate scenes did not make it into the movie. • Magical Guide to Pixie Hollow – Tinker Bell and Terence are your guides as you explore the autumn area of Pixie Hollow. • Deleted Scenes with Filmmaker Introductions – Play deleted scenes with optional intros by Director Klay Hall and Producer Sean Lurie. • Pixie Hollow Comes To Florida – Discover how the filmmakers helped transform Epcot into Pixie Hollow.
It’s back!!!One of the best reviewed and rewarded musicals of the past 15 years has returned to Orange County.RENT: The Broadway Tour is performing at the Orange County Performing Arts Center for a special one week engagement ending October 25th.This Tony Award-winning musical has gained a massive following since its debut in 1996 for a reason.RENT with its dark subjects of AIDS and death remains exhilarating and stimulating.If you haven’t seen this emotional musical by now, this is the time!
Original Broadway production and film adaptation stars Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp have reprised their roles as broke roommates Roger and Mark.Pascal has gone back to his original haircut in the performance and Mark hasn’t changed since I first heard the music or saw him in the film.Opening night was filled with great anticipation and thunderous applause.It goes without saying that a ticket to RENT will guarantee award-winning music, powerful acting and an emotional story.
Being a little less knowing of than the average fans of RENT, I was a bit curious how the stage presentation would compare to my thoughts of the film adaptation.I heard the original music roughly 8 years ago and have always been interested in seeing the live performance. In fact, I was thrilled for a chance to see the film adaptation since it didn’t seem that I would be making it to the stage production anytime soon.Unfortunately, I was slightly disappointed with the film compared to opinions of the show I had heard prior.I will assure those who have only seen the movie that the live production is far superior to its Hollywood counterpart.
The time had finally arrived.I was patiently waiting in my seat for the first actor to walk out on stage.I expected so much from the show not realizing the capability it actually had.Without any dimming of the lighting or any instrumental intro, Pascal walked onto stage with an enormous applause quickly followed by Rapp to an even louder cheer of hoots and hollers.It was at this moment the goose bumps and continuous smile on my face would begin.The voicemail played after the notorious “SPEEEAAKK” answering machine message followed by the all too familiar tune of the song “Rent”.Before I could catch my breath I was already singing along in my head with the realization I was witnessing one of the greatest musicals of all time.
If I sound a little too enthusiastic about this experience it’s because I was.By the first act I was shocked…speechless…I couldn’t believe what I have been missing.This show is still worth seeing again if you have seen the show with a different cast.Pascal and Rapp were fantastic.Plus, it’s pretty cool seeing the same actors that starred in the show originally and in the film.Let’s be real.It was the whole cast that made the production feel so passionate though.
Justin Johnston plays Angel, the drag queen dressing street musician, and was part of the closing cast of RENT.He throws a little bit of his own touches along to some of the overly energetic scenes the character is known for.His “Today 4 U” was hilarious and wildly entertaining.However, I am basing my opinions off comparing the film to the stage production and the cast recording of the show.This makes my review difficult as I have no basis to relate what I viewed Tuesday night.
Michael McElroy retains the deep voice and tall attributes of Tom Collins.His performance was just as fantastic as the rest.Lexi Lawson who plays Mimi, a junkie that falls for Roger, and Haneefah Wood who plays Joanne, one of the leading lesbians in the show, do a fine job but nothing to worth reporting.Nicolette Hart’s performance of Maureen, the ex-girlfriend turned lesbian of Mark’s and complete flirt, was stupendous.I have not heard a better “Over the Moon” performance.Her infamous scene with the “mooing” was absolutely hilarious and showed some true talent.Hart goes completely over-the-top and completely pulls it off.It was noted by a friend whom I trust far more with vocal critiques that Hart’s vocals may have not been the strongest, but her overall performance outweighed any sort of vocal flaw.
I admit that I am not the greatest when it comes to recognizing poor vocals although I know what I enjoy.Any of these vocal issues may not be noticeable to the common theater-goers.There were no problems toward any of the vocals to my ears.Several of the original music arrangements are sung differently than many people may be familiar with. The stage production music is far less commercialized and feels truer.
The traditional band on-stage tucked away in the corner remains and the sets stray true to past productions.RENT remains just as powerful with a moral that will remain timeless even with the early 90’s settings.The chore of the show will always stay the same.The audience cheered along the entire production with many tears shed and lots of laughs chuckled.Even though I may be unknowledgeable toward past productions of RENT, I am still comfortable with saying this was just as spectacular.There really is no point in reading this however as it is impossible to comprehend the power this musical contains unless you are there in person.What are you waiting for… there is “no day but today”.
Tickets are $20-$70 and are available at OCPAC.org, the Center’s Box Office or by calling (714) 556-2787.In keeping with the vision of the musicals creator, Jonathon Larson, $20 tickets are available everyday 2 hours before curtain with a limit of 2 per person.Cash only.
You may recognize Greg Giraldo as being one of the many presenters on the Comedy Central Roasts.I’ve always noticed he has been the butt of all jokes during the roasts.The comedians always seem to be the harshest toward him as they seem to always bash his stand-up stating it’s not funny or that no one has ever heard of him.Well, both are true.I didn’t hear about him until the first Comedy Central Roast I watched and his comedy really isn’t that grand.
Giraldo’s stand-up usually involves insane stories of life in New York.Sadly, I’ve never been to New York and can’t really relate to everything about New York.I’m sure life near Los Angeles deals with many of the same type of freaks you may come upon in New York, but his comedy still plays toward the New York audience.The rest of the act deals with everyday life situations of people sick of the world they live.
His comedic style involves telling an insane story about somewhere he was and comes up with a dirty joke to compare what happened.I’m not saying this is a bad technique, but I wasn’t finding his stories too laugh-out-loud funny.I definitely still laughed to myself and found many parts humorous.However, I don’t see myself running to tell my friends or co-workers how great he is.
Most of his jokes are about true scenarios or are semi-intelligent.This is a style I usually prefer, but I just wasn’t finding it that great.It seems more like conversations I may have with my friends.
I do give him a hand when he stops in the middle of his act to point out an audience member sleeping during his show.He improvises very well. Giraldo cracks some jokes and slams at the audience member and then easily moves on with his act.The act was a little better from this moment on.Unfortunately, he does seem to continue with jokes for a little too long with way too many analogies.
Of course it’s all up to everyone’s own interpretation.I was never bored watching the special and wouldn’t mind sitting through it on TV.Having it in my collection may not be necessary though.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Also included in the DVD is his Comedy Central Presents Special.I actually found this stand-up routine from 2000 far better than his hour special.It’s more about everyday situations that everyone can relate to.He didn’t seem as comfortable, but many of his stories still relate well to today.
The other feature of the whopping two features is a never-before-seen pilot of his show entitled “Adult Content”.This style and format is very similar to most comedian sketch/stand-up shows.The only difference was this was all about the sex and how we can all relate.Wouldn’t have been that bad of a show and could have competed with Demetri Martin or Carlos Mencia.
This is not a kid’s movie.Then again, I can’t really tell you who it’s made for.Director Spike Jonze has joined with author Maurice Sendak of the book of the same title from 40 years ago.Their collaboration has made sure that the movie will remain true to the book and have the same feeling any kid got from reading it.Warner Bros. Pictures with Legendary and Village Roadshow Pictures have created a film unlike anything before.
It’s eccentric and visionary, but absent of any real narrative of what’s really taking place. Where the Wild Things Are is gorgeous and extremely cinematic with some fantastic acting and voice talent along side of unbelievably realistic creatures.This is a film that plays to a child’s thought process and captures exactly what it was like to be a kid.However, it still may seem too weird and hard to follow for most adults.
Where the Wild Things Are follows a young boy named Max (MAX RECORDS), a very imaginative child that’s not quite like the other kids on the street.Max is very wild as one might say.He’s beginning to realize that he is a little different than the rest of his family, but is really just misunderstood.The young boy shares a quality everyone can relate to while growing up.There comes a point in our lives where we feel as if we must conform and act more maturely in order to fit in with the rest of society.This may not always be the best option for everyone.
Max wants to remain himself, but with a divorced mother and teenage sister it becomes a struggle for attention.For Max this requires putting on an animal costume and acting as if he was in the wild.He ends up getting into a huge tantrum when he notices his mother is more interested in the man at her house than any play time with her son.After a bite to his mothers arm while she attempts to tame him, it becomes clear that Max doesn’t belong and runs away.Just as the book, he finds a small boat and sets sail where he’ll end up on a mysterious island where he will soon meet the Wild Things.
This island is where any young boy dreams of living.It’s not a Pleasure Island or a world of ice cream and candy but a place where he can run wild, howl and do anything you want.There’s no one to tell him what not to do or how to act.Max can be himself.These Wild Things however need a leader, which Max takes it upon himself to become their new ruler to fix their problems.Ruling a kingdom is not as easy as Max may think.Instead, Max is forced to deal with the relationships between the Wild Things that are for more complicated than he could have ever imagined.
The child that plays Max does such a wonderful job.His role required him to be absolutely crazy at times and just a little innocent kid at others.Being as wild as his character is must have been tough.There are scenes of him just acting like a playful child and others where he hates everyone and is pissed at the world.I felt as if I could see what he was thinking, which for a child actor is near impossible.It’s truly an impressive performance.His mother played by CATHERINE KEENER also does a fabulous job.She plays a very loving mother that may be just on the brink of losing her mind with her son.You can see she loves everything about him, but at times he gets a little too out of control that becomes difficult for her handle.It’s not just the actors that contributed greatly to the movie though, the creatures play an even bigger role in this children’s classic.
At first glance, these creatures can be quite scary being 9-feet tall with sharp teeth and being very powerful.As the camera gets closer and follows them, their character quickly break out.These big headed fluffy creatures can be quite charismatic and shed a great amount of emotion.The main creature is probably what you will remember most from the book.I didn’t know how they could make these giant things become so loveable, but the idea is behind the amazing voice talent.Douglas, CHRIS COOPER (Adaptation), leads the pack and really adds a lot of depth to his character.Imagine if Eeyore became a strong beast with more emotion, then you have Douglas.
The Wild Things gain much believability by their faces.The heads are static and use CGI to animate the mouth, eyes and other subtle movements one may find in a face.These costumes were designed and built over a 6-month period of time by the infamous Jim Henson Company Creature Shop in Los Angeles.They were then shipped to the set in Australia where another team of costumers continued with adjustments on location.The giant costumes had very demanding needs as this film does contain quite a bit of action.These creatures had to be able to run around and be used in scenes requiring wire work and special rigs for fights.It seemed like quite an under taking and the puppeteers and filmmakers did a magnificent job pulling it off.Not once did I feel like I was watching someone in a giant costume.
I really would like to talk about these creatures forever as I absolutely loved them.Every character created is so unique and different.They all have depth and really capture the movements of the voice talent.The incredibly talented cast of voices was all filmed saying their lines so the puppeteers could mimic their movements and really capture a sense of realism.This cast also includes JAMES GANDOLFINI (The Taking of Pelham 123), CATHERINE O’HARA (For Your Consideration, Orange County, Home Alone), FOREST WHITAKER (Vantage Point), and PAUL DANO (There Will Be Blood).
Each creature has a design that kind of reminds me of how the actors look as well a perfect match for the tone in their voices.I don’t think this movie would have any of the same feel without the style and design of these creatures.I must give a hand to Director of Photography Lance Acord, On-set Art Director Tim Disney and Production Designer K.K. Barrett for really bring out a different world like no other.It’s a very beautiful film and not because of extremely picturesque locations, but because of the style, colors, and film techniques.
The film also uses a lot of hand-held cameras that really brings the movie to Max’s eyes.This is a movie told through the eyes and thoughts of the child.This causes the film to be a bit strange and odd at points where scenes don’t flow and scenarios take place that don’t seem to make sense.There will be items said between the characters where I think to myself, “Why would they react that way.”Several times I found myself asking if that’s how they should react to each other.This is justified by the fact this is Max’s story and his imagination.Unfortunately, I don’t know if the common moviegoer will figur
e this out.I am also pondering whether or not children will fully understand it as well as the point nothing is really explained why it is taking place or why these creatures are here.There are many questions to be asked, but this is an adaptation of a very short illustrated children’s book.
The music within the film is the same style as played in the trailer and really delivers the right tone to the film.The music is composed by Karen O from the ‘Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ and award-winning composer Carter Burwell.These songs have childlike melodies to it and showcase Max’s constant changes in emotions scene to scene.It’s a little whimsical and sweet, which is perfect for the film.
There are quite some disgusting moments as at one point Max is inside one of the creatures stomachs, which may have been a little much.However, most of the time the Wild Things are quite lovable and endearing.I don’t think kids will be too scared but they may not fully understand the movie.I myself am having quite a bit of difficulty figuring out what I felt toward this film.By all means, I can praise everything from the acting to the music.The script is just a little weird and odd at times.If you are a true movie lover, this is a must see.There are so many great aspects, but if you are just looking for an entertaining film, I don’t know if this is the one.
Where the Wild Things Are has a huge amount of hype and expectations.Even non-movie lovers are excited for this movie, but I am worried many will be disappointed.There is some action and quite a bit of comical lines, but it should fall flat for most.It did make me feel like a little kid at moments and reminded of my childhood; something I believe Spike was aiming for.
Romantic comedies seem almost impossible to get right. There is a necessary formula to creating a successful film in this genre. Everybody knows the basic steps, and in theory, it should be incredibly easy to pull off. And yet time after time we endure these films, hoping for the best, and suffering the worst. So what do the (rare) successful entries have in common? The answer is chemistry between the leads. And this is something The Proposal has in spades.
This movie has absolutely nothing you haven’t seen before and nothing that you won’t be able to predict right away. However, Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock prove to be such a compelling couple, the calculated plot contrivances and forced comedy almost begin feeling natural. The film begins by establishing the relationship between Bullock’s character, Margaret, and Reynold’s character, Andrew. She is the reviled, fearsome book editor, and he is the submissive, yet sarcastic, assistant with dreams of something more. What could possibly trigger a relationship between these two opposites?
Well, as plot demands, she finds out that she is going to be deported back to Canada. The only solution would seem to be temporarily marrying Andrew, which means flying to Alaska to announce the engagement to his entire family. Of course she is going to learn all sorts of life lessons and grow to become a better person in the process, and of course they are going to fall in love along the way (if you’ve never seen a movie before, I apologize for the spoiler). And somehow, this all feels semi-believable, although slightly rushed. One weekend is not enough time to completely change a person, and yet, it sort of feels authentic.
Andrew’s hometown of Sitka, Alaska, is populated with an eclectic assortment of character actors, all in top form. His parents are played by the fantastic Craig T. Nelson, and by Mary Steenburgen, whom I’ve loved since her turn as Doc Brown’s love interest in Back to the Future III. His ex is played by Malin Akerman (Silk Spectre II in Watchmen), and his eccentric grandma played by the still entertaining Betty White. The family dynamic is very believable and very entertaining. I was also thoroughly entertained by Oscar Nunez’s (Oscar from the Office) portrayal of Ramone, an eccentric jack-of-all-trades who pops up in the most random places throughout the film. A disturbing highlight of the film is his reveal as the town stripper. It was unsettling to say the least, but also hilarious.
Every actor seems to genuinely believe in the material. Reynold’s and Bullock are friends in real life, which is definitely felt onscreen. They have a natural back-and-forth between them; one that doesn’t feel remotely forced. Reynold’s brings the expected level of sarcasm to the role, but Bullock really seems to be trying something new. She is genuinely unlikable as the film begins, and she brings a lot of subtlety to her character’s transition.
As the film begins approaching it’s inevitable happy ending, I was surprised to find that I was rooting for the characters. I began believing in them as people, and not simply devices. The ending is completely earned, and will give fans exactly what they want from a film like this. It’s a very satisfying ending, and one that works far better than the alternate ending found on the recent Blu-Ray release.
This alternate ending demonstrates everything that could go wrong with films in this genre. I won’t give it away, but suffice it say, it is spectacularly unfunny, untrue to the style of the film, and gratingly obnoxious. This ending could have ruined the entire movie. I guess test screenings can occasionally do some good.
Other extras include three deleted scenes that aren’t missed. There is also an audio commentary with the director and writer, and a surprisingly funny gag reel. These almost never work for me, as they usually consist of repetitive dialogue flubs and people trying not to laugh. This reel feels a little more natural than most, showing the cast and crew as they really are. They seem to be playing to the camera, and actually having a good time. It’s nothing spectacular, but it’s a fun bonus. As is the new trend, the Blu-Ray also contains a digital copy, so you can watch the movie “on the go.”
I was very surprised with how well The Proposal turned out. The movie could have been another forgettable chick-flick, seen by many and instantly forgotten by all. This one should have more of an impact than most. If you are a fan of the genre, odds are that you will really enjoy this movie. And if you’re not, you’ll still probably have a good time. Other romantic comedies could learn a lot from this one. If the cast is strong, and the leads have the right chemistry, even a mediocre script can be made into a great film.
