WORST.  BABYSITTER.  EVER.

Jonah Hill Takes You Where No Babysitting Movie Has Gone Before in the Outrageously Raunchy and “Totally Irresponsible” Edition

Arriving on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Download March 20th

 From the director of Pineapple Express comes an adventure in babysitting that is definitely not for the entire family as Jonah Hill (21 Jump Street,Moneyball) steps in as THE SITTER, arriving on Blu-ray, DVD,  and digital download March 20th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.  Defiant, vulgar and envelope-pushing, THE SITTER will be available in the “totally irresponsible” edition offering a hilarious and even raunchier unrated cut of the film.

When Noah (Hill), the suburban slacker, is watching the neighbor’s kid he gets a booty call from his girlfriend in the city. To hook up with her, Noah takes to the streets, but his urban adventure spins out of control as he finds himself on the run from the maniacal drug lord.  Raunchy laughs and insane action – it’s all in a night’s work for The Sitter.

With hilarious supporting performances from J.B. Smoove (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”),
Ari Graynor (What’s Your Number?) and Sam Rockwell (Cowboys & Aliens), THE SITTER “totally irresponsible” edition Blu-ray is loaded with special features including an unrated cut of the film, deleted scenes, a gag reel, outtakes and three behind-the-scenes featurettes.  The Blu-ray and DVD will be available for an average retail price of $29.99 and $19.99 respectively.  Prebook is February 22.

THE SITTER “Totally Irresponsible” Edition Blu-ray Special Features

• The “Totally Irresponsible” unrated edition
• Deleted & Extended Scenes

o   Noah Goes Downtown – Extended

o   Noah and Slater Talk About Twins – Extended

o   Getting the Minivan – Extended

o   Karl’s Back Room – Extended

o   Karl Hugs It Out – Deleted

o   Kids on the Curb – Deleted

o   Meeting Karl in Chinatown – Extended

o   Noah Calls Stephanie – Deleted

o   Brooklyn Party Scenes – Deleted

o   Alternate Ending: Carousel Fight

• Gag Reel
• “Totally Irresponsible” outtakes
• “For Your Consideration” with Blythe featurette
• “The Making of The Sitter” featurette
• “Jonah the Producer” featurette

About Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is a recognized global industry leader and a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company. Representing 75 years of innovative and award-winning filmmaking from Twentieth Century Fox, TCFHE is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming, acquisitions and original productions on DVD, Blu-ray Disc Digital Copy, Video On Demand and Digital Download. The company also releases all products globally for MGM Home Entertainment. Each year TCFHE introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce throughout the world.

THE SITTER “Totally Irresponsible” Edition Blu-ray (Catalog #2273751)

Street Date:                       March 20, 2012

Prebook Date:                   February 22, 2012

Screen Format:                 16:9 (1.85:1)

Audio:                                  English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 DTS

Subtitles:                             English / French / Spanish

U.S. Rating:                        Unrated

Total Run Time:                 82 minutes

Closed Captioned:           Yes

THE SITTER “Totally Irresponsible” Edition DVD (Catalog # 2273744)

Street Date:                       March 20, 2012

Prebook Date:                   February 22, 2012

Screen Format:                16:9 (1.85:1)

Audio:                                  English 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 2.0 Dolby Digital

Subtitles:                            English, Spanish

U.S. Rating:                       Unrated

Total Run Time:                82 minutes

Closed Captioned:          Yes

The Biggest Muppet Adventure Ever Comes Home!
The Must-Own Movie For The Entire Family
Debuts on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack,
Digital and On-Demand March 20, 2012

Debut Release Offers Fans the Full Movie Soundtrack with DVD Release and as part of a ‘Wocka-Wocka’ Pack for the Ultimate Muppets Experience!

One of the year’s best-loved family comedies and among the best reviewed films of 2011, Disney’s “The Muppets,” starring Jason Segel, Academy Award®-nominee Amy Adams, and favorite celebrity couple Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy — debuts March 20 on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD, Digital Download and On-Demand formats. A must-own movie the entire family can enjoy, Disney’s “The Muppets” in-home release includes the DVD and music soundtrack packaged together and also offered as the ultimate Muppets experience, a ‘Wocka-Wocka Value Pack,’ which contains the movie on Blu-ray high definition, DVD and Digital Copy (three discs), plus a download card which allows fans to own all the songs from the film’s hugely popular soundtrack.

Disney’s “The Muppets” Blu-ray Combo Pack, with its flawless picture and pitch perfect sound, comes with a fantastic slate of bonus content including the laugh out loud “The Longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History––We Think).” The exciting release also includes the hilarious featurette “A Little Screen Test on the Way to the Read Through,” which follows Jason Segel, Kermit, The Great Gonzo, Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy and others as they get ready for the first day of production, and much more fun.

“Blu-ray is a great way to bring the Muppets into your home without having to worry about cleaning up after us,” said Kermit the Frog, commenting on the announcement. “And the behind-the-scenes extras are a revealing tell-all look at what it took to bring our movie to the big screen. It’s a must-see for fans of bloopers, flubs and slip-ups – which pretty much describes our act.”

Miss Piggy is equally thrilled at the movie’s Blu-ray release, “Now you can watch moi whenever you want! Ooh! Lucky vous!”

Additional fun-filled features on Disney’s “The Muppets” Blu-ray include a groundbreaking industry first — ‘Disney Intermission,’ a hilarious all-new feature that allows viewers to press Pause on their remote control and watch as the Muppets take over the screen and entertain until the movie resumes playing. The release also includes “Explaining Evil: The Full Tex Richman Song,” an extended version of the rollicking rap song by villain Tex Richman (Academy Award® winner Chris Cooper) who provides the hilarious backstory of why he hates the Muppets. Audio commentaries with screenwriter and star Jason Segel, director James Bobin and screenwriter Nicholas Stoller are also included.

With the Muppet’s signature irreverent comedy, songs and dancing, Muppet fans of all ages will cheer as the gang reunites to put on a benefit show to save the crumbling Muppet Studios from being razed by nefarious oil baron Tex Richman. New fans and long-time devotees will find the rainbow connection when they bring Disney’s “The Muppets” into their very own homes.

Film Synopsis

On vacation in Los Angeles, Walter, the world’s biggest Muppet fan, his brother Gary (Jason Segel) and Gary’s girlfriend, Mary (Amy Adams), from Smalltown, USA, discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to raze Muppet Studios and drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets’ former stomping grounds. To stage a telethon and raise the $10 million needed to save the studio, Walter, Mary and Gary help Kermit reunite the Muppets, who have all gone their separate ways: Fozzie now performs with a Reno casino tribute band called the Moopets, Miss Piggy is a plus-size fashion editor at Vogue Paris, Animal is in a Santa Barbara clinic for anger management, and Gonzo is a high-powered plumbing magnate.

Disney’s “The Muppets” is directed by James Bobin (“Flight of the Conchords,” “The Ali G Show”) and produced by the Academy Award®-nominated team of David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman (“The Fighter,” “The Proposal”) with a screenplay written by Segel & Nicholas Stoller (“Get Him to the Greek”), who also serve as executive producers along with John G. Scotti and “The Muppet Show” veteran Martin G. Baker. Bret McKenzie, who created, co-wrote, executive-produced and starred in the hit HBO television series “Flight of the Conchords,” is the music supervisor as well as the writer/producer of three original songs. Original score is by Christophe Beck, Michael Rooney is the choreographer, Rahel Afiley is the costume designer, and James Thomas is the editor. Steve Saklad is the production designer, and Don Burgess, A.S.C., is the director of photography.

3-Disc ‘Wocka-Wocka Value Pack’

(1-Disc Blu-ray + 1-Disc DVD + Digital Copy + Soundtrack Digital Download Card)

Includes:

• The Longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History––We Think) – A laugh out loud look at the actors’ funny gaffs and gags from behind the scenes of making Disney’s “The Muppets.”
• Disney Intermission – Groundbreaking Blu-ray feature. Pausing a movie will never be this much fun, as the Muppets take over the screen every time you stop the disc!
• Scratching The Surface: A Hasty Examination of the Making of Disney’s “The Muppets.” Hosted by unit production manager monster J.G., the cast and crew take a behind the scenes look at making Muppet and movie history.
• Explaining Evil: The Full Tex Richman Song. Rapping his way through the story of his miserable life, Tex tells audiences why he turned out to be such a rotten guy.
• A Little Screen Test on the way to the Read Through. This hilarious footage follows the Muppet gang as they go to their first table reading of the script.
• Eight Deleted Scenes
• Audio Commentary with Jason Segel, James Bobin and Nicholas Stoller
• The Combo Pack also comes with the popular theatrical spoof trailers
• The Complete Soundtrack

2-Disc Combo Pack (1-Disc Blu-ray + 1 Disc DVD)

Includes:

• The Longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History––We think).
• Disney Intermission
• Scratching the Surface: A Hasty Examination of the Making of Disney’s “The Muppets”
• Explaining Evil: The Full Tex Richman Song
• A Little Screen Test on the Way to the Read Through
• Deleted Scenes
• Audio commentary with Jason Segel, James Bobin and Nicholas Stoller
• Hidden Easter Eggs

1-Disc DVD + Soundtrack Digital Download Card

Includes:

• The longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History––We Think)
• Complete Soundtrack

1-Disc DVD

Includes:

• The Longest Blooper Reel Ever Made (In Muppet History––We Think)

Digital Bonus Exclusive Includes:

• Inside Walter’s Trailer. Take a peek inside Walter’s star trailer as he prepares to play his big role.

Join the Never-ending Mahna Mahna now: http://di.sn/QX

Visit the Muppets Fan-A-Thon on Facebook: http://di.sn/Hg

Become a fan on Facebook: http://facebook.com/Muppets

Follow Statler & Waldorf on Twitter: http://twitter.com/MuppetsStudio

Visit the Official Site: http://disney.com/muppets

The We Are Movie Geeks interview with Kurtwood Smith, who played Mr. Perry in DEAD POET’S SOCIETY, can be found HERE.

The beloved 1987 Disney drama DEAD POETS SOCIETY has graduated to Blu-ray, and to the film’s many, many fans, the new hi-def transfer is going to be a godsend. The first thing you’ll notice is that the colors are stunningly vibrant and deep. The subject did not lend itself to a wealth of coloring in the film, but every color handled by the transfer is vivid and perfectly saturated. The blue skies and reds that appear throughout the film look very good. In perfect contrast to the brightly lit interiors and exteriors are the more darkly lit scenes which feature deep black levels and never lose any detail. The film does have a few moments of film grain, but the general condition of the source materials results in the best the film has looked since it was new. Here’s a rundown of the Blu-ray’s extras: First there is a 28-minute featurette entitled “Dead Poet’s Society: A Look Back”, featuring current interviews with actors Ethan Hawke, Robert Sean Leonard, Melora Walters, Kurtwood Smith, Dylan Kussman, Allelon Ruggiero, and Norman Lloyd (who plunged from the Statue of Liberty in Hitchcock’s SABOTEUR in 1942 and turns 98 this year). Williams is conspicuously absent. Most talk about how excited they were to work with director Peter Weir but it’s interesting to hear what they have to say and see how they look now. It’s noteable how few of these young actors, Ethan Hawke being the exception, went on to bigscreen stardom. Robert Sean Leonard had a few good roles but faded and Josh Charles is a familiar face but while other adolescent ensemble films from this period, TAPS, THE OUTSIDERS, SCHOOL TIES, were breeding grounds for many of today’s stars, not DEAD POETS SOCIETY. There is also a very good feature-length commentary by director Peter Weir, writer Tom Schulman and Cinematographer John Seale. It’s laid-back and dry, but packed with great insights and anecdotes. The men don’t speak over each other and sound as though they were recorded separately. Weir and Seale are both old-school masters and it’s inspiring to hear what they have to say about the making of this film, as well as movies in general. Schulman gives some insights as to why the story developed the way it did. “Raw Takes” shows some raw footage of a scene that wasn’t included in the final film showing Robin Williams’ Mr. Keating attending one of the meetings of the Dead Poets Society after the performance of Midsummer Night’s Dream and leading the boys to a frozen waterfall in the woods. Two brief documentaries round out the extras: “A Master of Sound: Alan Splet” is an 11-minute tribute to the late sound man. Peter Weir is joined by David Lynch, who had also collaborated with him and they discuss the influences and impact he made on the filmmakers he worked with. It’s a nice tribute. “Cinematography Master Class” is a 21-minute clip from a television show (Produced by the Australian Film, Television and Radio School) illustrating how cinematographer John Seale lit the dorm room scenes for different seasons and times of the movie. It’s very technical but may interest some.

I recall strongly disliking DEAD POETS SOCIETY when it was new and I had not seen it again until I watched the new Blu-ray release this week. I remember finding it overly pious, full of platitudes, a shameless attempt to pander to an adolescent audience. At the time I thought Robin Williams shtick was so grating (though it’s low key compared to some of the stuff he would do over the next decade). Watching it again with a less-cynical eye, the movie has aged well and is much better than I remember. It’s a familiar story told with obvious care and craftsmanship and it clearly influenced a lot of subsequent, inferior films.  The ending, with the boys standing on their chairs and applauding Williams’s Mr. Keating, is still an eye-roller, wreaking more of manipulation than it does of truth, but the film on balance is sincere and extremely well-written (it won the Best Original Screenplay Oscar).

Most of the extras on the disc are carried over from the 2006 “Special Edition” DVD. When the film was aired on the USA Network in the early 1990’s, it was padded with some deleted scenes, which are not included on this Blu-ray so, despite the great transfer and a solid set of extras, this is still not the last word on DEAD POETS SOCIETY. I’m happy to finally admit that DEAD POETS SOCIETY is a touching, involving drama with a series of great performances and moving moments so by all means, if you’re a fan of the film, seize the day and buy the Blu-ray.

To celebrate the release of KILLER ELITE, WAMG is offering THREE lucky readers a chance to win a copy of DVD/Blu-ray/Digital Download/UltraViolet™ Combo Pack!

Based on a shocking true story, Killer Elite is a gritty battle between guns-for-hire that has been hailed as “one of the best action thrillers of the year!” by Richard Roeper, ReelzChannel. Pitting two of the world’s most elite operatives against the cunning leader of a secret military society, Killer Elite stars Jason Statham (The Transporter, Death Race), Academy Award® winner Robert De Niro (The Godfather Part II, Raging Bull) and Academy Award®-nominee Clive Owen (Children of Men, Closer). Directed by Academy Award®-nominee Gary McKendry (Everything in this Country Must), Killer Elite is available on Blu-ray™Combo Pack with UltraViolet™, DVD, On Demand and Digital Download January 10, 2012 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Open Road Films.

Featuring unstoppable action and a tremendous cast – including Dominic Purcell (“Prison Break,” Straw Dogs), Yvonne Strahovski (“Chuck”), Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (“Lost,” “Oz”), Aden Young (Sniper, “The Starter Wife”) and Ben Mendelsohn (Trespass, Knowing) – Killer Elite is “a classic action thriller that will keep you guessing till the last scene.” (Patrick Carone, MAXIM).

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT. PRIZE WILL ONLY BE SHIPPED TO US ADDRESSES.

2. FILL OUT YOUR REAL NAME AND EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.

3. WATCH THE CLIP AND ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

At the end of the clip, when Jason Statham asks Robert DeNiro what he is doing, what is his response?

WINNERS WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL QUALIFYING ENTRIES. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PRIZES WILL NOT BE SUBSTITUTED OR EXCHANGED.

With the Killer Elite Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, consumers will get an all-new UltraViolet™ copy of the film. UltraViolet™ is the revolutionary new way for consumers to collect movies and TV shows, put them in the cloud and stream instantly to computers, tablets and smart phones and soon, consumers can download to devices of their choice too. The Killer Elite Blu-ray™ Combo Pack also includes a Digital Copy of the film which is compatible with iTunes®, iPad®, iPhone®, iPod™ touch, Android or other retail partners. So now, consumers can truly enjoy their movies and TV shows anytime, anywhere, on the platform of their choice!

BLU-RAY™ and DVD BONUS FEATURES:

• DELETED/EXTENDED SCENES

BLU-RAYTM Exclusive BONUS FEATURES: Unleash the power of your HDTV with perfect hi-def picture and perfect hi-def sound.

• UltraViolet™: The revolutionary new way for consumers to collect movies and TV shows, put them in the cloud and stream instantly to computers, tablets and smart phones, currently available in the United States only.
• BD-LIVE™: Access the BD-Live™ Center through your Internet-connected player to watch the latest trailers and more!
• pocket BLU™ app: The groundbreaking pocket BLU™ app uses iPad®, iPhone®, iPod® touch, Android™, PC and Mac® to work seamlessly with a network-connected Blu-ray™ player. Plus iPad® and Android™ tablet owners can enjoy a new, enhanced edition of pocket BLU™ made especially to take advantage of the tablets’ larger screen and high resolution display. Consumers will be able to browse through a library of Blu-ray™ content and watch entertaining extras on-the-go in a way that’s bigger and better than ever before. pocket BLU™ offers advanced features such as:
• ADVANCED REMOTE CONTROL: A sleek, elegant new way to operate your Blu-ray™ player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and BD-Live™ functions with ease.
• VIDEO TIMELINE: Users can easily bring up the video timeline, allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.
• MOBILE-TO-GO: Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with their Blu-ray™ discs to save to their device or to stream from anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on the go, anytime, anywhere.
• BROWSE TITLES: Users will have access to a complete list of pocket BLU™-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray™ Hi-Def. They can view free previews and see what additional content is available to unlock on their device.
• KEYBOARD: Entering data is fast and easy with your device’s intuitive keyboard.

CAST AND FILMMAKERS:
Cast: Jason Statham, Clive Owen, Robert De Niro, Yvonne Strahovski, Dominic Purcell, Aden Young, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Ben Mendelsohn
Directed By: Gary McKendry
Written By: Matt Sherring (screenplay)
Based on the Book by: Ranulph Fiennes
Producers: Michael Boughen, Steve Chasman, Sigurjon Sighvatsson, Tony Winley
Executive Producers: Peter D. Graves, Christopher Mapp, Matthew Street, David Whealy
Co-Executive Producer: Bill Johnson
Production Designer: Michelle McGahey
Director of Photography: Simon Duggan
Edited By: John Gilbert
Original Music By: Reinhold Heil, Johnny Klimek

TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY
Street Date: January 10, 2012
Copyright: 2012 Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Selection Number: 61121303
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 2.40:1
Rating: R for strong violence, language, and some sexuality/nudity
Languages:/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish
Sound: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, Dolby Digital 2.0
Run Time: 1 Hour 57 Minutes

TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD:
Street Date: January 10, 2012
Copyright: 2012 Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Selection Number: 61121302
Layers: Dual Layer
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Rating: R for strong violence, language, and some sexuality/nudity
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH/Spanish Subtitles
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Run Time: 1 Hour 57 Minutes

For more information please go to www.killerelite.com

“Like” the film on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KillerEliteMovie

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 will be released on DVD & Blu-ray February 11th.

The first of a two-part adaptation, THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - PART 1 is directed by Bill Condon (Dreamgirls, Gods and Monsters) from a screenplay by Melissa Rosenberg, based on the novel Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer. Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner star.

Summit Entertainment’s THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN-PART 2 will be in theaters November 16, 2012.

Visit the film’s official website: http://www.breakingdawn-themovie.com/

Follow the film on Twitter: @Twilight #BreakingDawn

“Like” it on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/twilight

GET CAPTIVATED BY ELIZABETH OLSEN IN THE GRIPPING PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER

Featuring the Award Winning Short Film “Mary Last Seen”

Only On Blu-ray and DVD February 21

From 2011 Sundance Film Festival “Best Director” winner Sean Durkin, in his feature film debut, and featuring breakout star Elizabeth Olsen in her “Best Female Lead” Film Independent Spirit Award nominated role, MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE arrives on Blu-ray and DVD February 21 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

After escaping from a dangerous cult and the watchful eye of its charismatic leader, a young woman named Martha (Olsen) tries to reclaim a normal life with her family. But the haunting memories from Martha’s past trigger a chilling paranoia — and nowhere seems safe as the fragile line between her reality and delusions begin to blur.

Supported by unforgettable powerhouse performances from Academy Award® nominee John Hawkes (Winter’s Bone, American Gangster) and Sarah Paulson (Down With Love, What Women Want), the MARTHA MARCY MARY MARLENE Blu-ray and DVD is rich with feature special features, including “Mary Last Seen,” the chilling short film by writer/director Durkin that started it all.

Pre-book date is January 25.

MARTHA MARCY MARY MARLENE Blu-ray Features:
●    Mary Last Seen
●    Spotlight on Elizabeth Olsen
●    The Story
●    The Making of Martha Marcy May Marlene
●    A Conversation with Filmmakers
●    The Psyche of a Cult
●    ”Marcy’s Song” Music Video by John Hawkes
●    Theatrical Trailer

MARTHA MARCY MARY MARLENE DVD Features:
●    Mary Last Seen

About Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is a recognized global industry leader and a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company. Representing 75 years of innovative and award-winning filmmaking from Twentieth Century Fox, TCFHE is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming, acquisitions and original productions on DVD, Blu-ray Disc Digital Copy, Video On Demand and Digital Download. The company also releases all products globally for MGM Home Entertainment. Each year TCFHE introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce throughout the world.

Follow Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on Twitter @FoxHomeEnt

MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE BLU-RAY: (Catalog # 2277170)

MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE DVD: (Catalog # 2277163)

Record-Setting* Prequel to the Phenomenally Popular Film Series – PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 – Delivers More Terrifying Suspense and Shocks With an Unrated Version on Blu-ray™/DVD Combo Pack

Debuting January 24, 2012, Blu-ray/DVD Combo Includes Extended Scenes and Chilling Lost Tapes

In A First, All Three Films Will be Available for Digital Download in a Seamless, Chronological Experience Prior to the Blu-ray/DVD Debut

THE HELP is one of the most talked about films of the year, and for good reason… it is absolutely fantastic. That is why it is no shock that the Blu-Ray DVD Combo pack is such a delight.

Synopsis:

Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, THE HELP stars Emma Stone (EASY A) as Skeeter, Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (DOUBT) as Aibileen and Octavia Spencer as Minny—three very different, extraordinary women in Mississippi during the 1960s, who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project that breaks societal rules and puts them all at risk. From their improbable alliance a remarkable sisterhood emerges, instilling all of them with the courage to transcend the lines that define them, and the realization that sometimes those lines are made to be crossed—even if it means bringing everyone in town face-to-face with the changing times. Deeply moving, filled with poignancy, humor and hope, THE HELP is a timeless and universal story about the ability to create change.

THE HELP is a touching, inspiring, and simply amazing film that shows how just a few people can truly make a difference in the world. The film in itself gets a 5 out of 5 from me.

AUDIO AND VISUAL:

The 1080p/AVC-encoded video transfer is simply delicious in this film. Mississippi really comes to life and pops off the screen! As for audio, the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is simply divine. Sure, it’s not jam-packed with explosions and sound shattering audio, but it is crisp, clear, and really compliments the film.

BONUS FEATURES: 

The thing I enjoy most about the blu-ray and dvd of THE HELP is that it didn’t over-saturate us with bonus features. Instead, it chose a few quality, interesting pieces to include and let them speak for themselves. Often times, it seems that movies are being released with a ton of bonus features, yet none of them are worth watching. This is simply not the case with THE HELP. If you enjoy the film, you will enjoy the bonus features!

DVD Bonus Features:

• Two deleted scenes with introductions by Director Tate Taylor, including ‘A Senator’s Son’ and ‘Keep On Walkin’ 
• “The Living Proof” music video by Mary J. Blige – I don’t know about you guys, but I am not a huge fan of music videos in the bonus features. I’d rather look up a music video that I wanted to watch online than pop in a disc just to watch it on my tv.

Exclusive Blu-ray Bonus Features:

• The Making of “The Help:” From Friendship To Film – a nice mini documentary about the cast, how the film was made, and the heart and soul of Mississippi. Overall, it’s a fun watch!
• In Their Own Words: A Tribute To The Maids Of Mississippi - an honest observation of life in the South from real-life maids, including director Tate Taylor’s childhood caretaker, Carol Lee. This was heartwarming to watch. A real treat after watching the film.
• Three deleted scenes with introductions by Director Tate Taylor including ‘Humiliated,’ ‘A Book About Jackson’ and ‘Johnny’s Home’ (which is a Blu-ray exclusive)

OVERALL BLU-RAY COMBO PACK RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Social Media:

Those who would like to stay connected with the exciting The Help release are encouraged to:

·       “Like” the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/thehelpmovie

·       Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/helpmovie

·       Visit the website and mobile site: http://thehelpmovie.com/us/

THE HELP is out on Blu-Ray and DVD now

A lot of great movie characters got their start from the fun filled pages of comic books. In honor of the release of CONAN THE BARBARIAN on Blu-Ray and DVD, we are going to take a look back at some of those fantastic characters that jumped off of the page and onto the big screen.

CONAN THE BARBARIAN Synopsis: 

The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back. Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination – in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds- Conan’s exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal action-adventure film.

300

Inspired by the 1962 film THE 300 SPARTANS, 300 started in 1998 as a limited comic book series both written and illustrated by Frank Miller and painted by Lynn Varley. The series is told from Leonidas of Sparta’s perspective, and tells of a past battle, the “Battle if Thermopylae”. It wasn’t until 2007 that 300 hit the big screen.

Kick-Ass

KICK-ASS got its start in 2008 as a series published by Marvel  Icon. It’s written by Mark Millar and illustrated by John Romita, Jr. The story takes place in New York, and follows teen Dave Lizewski. When his love for comics inspires him to take to the streets as a real-life superhero, he ends up attracting Hit Girl and Big Daddy, two vigilantes on a mission to take down John Genovese, a gangster about town. The film adaptation was released in 2010 and stars Aaron Johnson, Chloë Grace Moretz, Nicholas Cage, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse.

Sin City

Sin City is a neo-noir comic series by Frank Miller (who also wrote and illustrated 300). The comic made its debut in 1991 in DARK HORSE PRESENTS FIFTH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL and continued to appear in DARK HORSE PRESENTS until June of 1992. Based in Basin City, and follows a number of individuals living in this city of high crime and debotchery. The film adaptation was released in April of 2005 and was co-directed by Frank Miller and Robert Rodriguez.

Conan The Barbarian

Conan first appeared on the scene in 1932, when the character appeared in story form in the pulp magazine WEIRD TALES. CONAN THE BARBARIAN #1 first made its debut in October of 1970. Created by Robert E. Howard and Roy Thomas, the comic was first published my Marvel. It wasn’t until 2003 that it began being published by Dark Horse Comics. The series follows Conan the Barbarian, a sword wielding hero, throughout his adventures. Since its start, the story has been adapted into books, more comics, and several films. In 1982 Arnold Schwarzenegger took on the role of Conan in CONAN THE BARBARIAN. He returned to the role in 1984′s CONAN THE DESTROYER. Conan’s latest adventure to film is the release of CONAN THE BARBARIAN in 2011. It tells the tale of Conan the Cimmerian as he ventures across the continent of Hyboria on a more than determined quest to avenge the death of his father, and the slaughter of his village.

CONAN THE BARBARIAN is now out on Blu-Ray and DVD

On Tuesday, celebrate the 20th anniversary of director Joe Johnston’s (Captain America: The First Avenger) action-filled, witty THE ROCKETEER. Now with state-of-the-art digital restoration and enhanced high definition sound, experience it as it jets off for the first time on Disney Blu-ray™.

The discovery of a top-secret jetpack hurls test pilot Cliff Secord into a daring adventure of mystery, suspense, and intrigue! Cliff encounters an assortment of ruthless villains, led by a Hollywood screen star who is a secret Nazi spy. With the help of his actress girlfriend, the young pilot battles enormous odds to defeat his foes who are anxious to use the device in an evil plan to rule the world. The dangerous mission transforms the ordinary young man into an extraordinary hero.

Talent:

Billy Campbell (“The OC,” Enough)
Jennifer Connelly (Blood Diamond, The Dilemma)
Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine, Get Smart)
Timothy Dalton (The Tourist, “Chuck”)

Director:

Joe Johnston (Captain America: The First Avenger)

Director of Photography:

Hiro Narita (James and the Giant Peach)

Executive Producer:

Larry J. Franco (Batman Begins)

Writers:

Dave Stevens (graphic novel “The Rocketeer”)
Danny Bilson, Paul De Meo & William Dear (story)
Danny Bilson & Paul De Meo (screenplay)

Street Date: December 13, 2011
Release Format: 1 Disc Blu-ray
Suggested Retail Price: $26.50 (US)/$31.50 (Canada)
Feature Run Time: Approx. run time 109 minutes
Rated: PG (US & Canada)
Aspect Ratio: 1080p High Definition/2.35:1
Sound: English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
Languages: English and French
Subtitles: English SDH and French
Distribution: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

Digitally Remastered and Fully Restored with Over Three Hours
of Bonus Materials Including Two Full Length Documentaries

To Kill a Mockingbird, one of the screen’s most beloved and critically acclaimed films, celebrates its 50th anniversary with a commemorative Limited Edition Collector’s Series Blu-ray™ Combo Pack as well as on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD from Universal Studios Home Entertainment on January 31, 2012. The powerful and poignant adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel hits the half-century mark, digitally remastered and fully restored from high resolution 35MM original film elements, plus more than three-and-a-half hours of bonus features chronicling the making of the cinematic masterpiece.

The Limited Edition Collector’s Series Combo Pack of To Kill a Mockingbird: 50th Anniversary Edition will include a Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Copy of the film, packaged in a hardcover book featuring exclusive movie memorabilia including script pages with Gregory Peck’s handwritten notes, storyboards, poster art and much more.

Released theatrically in 1962, To Kill a Mockingbird won instant accolades for its nuanced performances, splendidly crafted narrative and bold endorsement of racial tolerance, fairness and honor, a combination that still resonates with audiences today. It earned eight Academy Award® nominations and three wins including a Best Actor statuette for Gregory Peck in one of his most iconic roles asthe principled Alabama lawyer Atticus Finch, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Art Direction.

The prestigious American Film Institute lists To Kill a Mockingbird as one of the 100 Greatest American Films and also names Atticus Finch as the No. 1 Film Hero of All Time. A timeless, enduring classic that remains as relevant and impactful today as it was at its release, To Kill a Mockingbird’s appeal continues to span generations.

In honor of its centennial anniversary, Universal Pictures proudly salutes 100 years of unforgettable films that have entertained audiences and touched the hearts of millions around the globe. In celebration of our first 100 years, Universal Studios Home Entertainment is proud to present a selection of our many beloved movies as part of an extensive year-long program that underscores the studio’s rich cinematic history and indelible cultural impact.

Blu-ray™ and DVD Bonus Features:

• Fearful Symmetry— A feature-length documentary on the making of To Kill a Mockingbird with cast and crew interviews and a visit to author Harper Lee’s home town.

• A Conversation with Gregory Peck— An intimate feature-length documentary on one of the most beloved actors in film history with interviews, film clips, home movies and more.

• 100 Years of Universal: Restoring the Classics— An in-depth look at the film restoration process

• Academy Award® Best Actor Acceptance Speech— Gregory Peck’s speech after winning the Academy Award® for his performance as Atticus Finch.

• American Film Institute Life Achievement Award— Gregory Peck’s memorable remarks upon receiving the AFI Life Achievement Award.

• Excerpt from “Tribute To Gregory Peck” — Cecilia Peck’s heartwarming farewell to her father given at the Academy in celebration of his life.

• Scout Remembers — Actress Mary Badham shares her experiences working with Gregory Peck.

• Feature Commentary with Director Robert Mulligan and Producer Alan Pakula

• Original Theatrical Trailer

Bonus Features Exclusively on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack:

• DIGITAL COPY: Owners of the Blu-ray™ Combo Pack can also download a digital version of the full-length movie from participating digital retailers to enjoy on a choice of popular electronic and portable devices.

• U-CONTROL: SCENE COMPANION: Available on To Kill a Mockingbird: 50th Anniversary Edition for the first time, viewers can watch interviews, see photos and more during key scenes with this picture-in-picture companion featuring narration by Gregory Peck’s Family.

• BD-LIVE™: Access the BD-Live™ Center through your Internet-connected player to watch the latest trailers and more!

• pocket BLU™ app: The groundbreaking pocket BLU™ app uses iPad®, iPhone®, iPod® touch, Android™, PC and Mac® to work seamlessly with a network-connected Blu-ray™ player. Plus iPad® and Android™ tablet owners can enjoy a new, enhanced edition of pocket BLU™ made especially to take advantage of the tablets’ larger screen and high resolution display. Consumers will be able to browse through a library of Blu-ray™ content and watch entertaining extras on-the-go in a way that’s bigger and better than ever before. pocket

BLU™ offers advanced features such as:

• ADVANCED REMOTE CONTROL: A sleek, elegant new way to operate your Blu-ray™ player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and BD-Live™ functions with ease.

• VIDEO TIMELINE: Users can easily bring up the video timeline, allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.

• MOBILE-TO-GO: Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with their Blu-ray™ discs to save to their device or to stream from anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on the go, anytime, anywhere.

• BROWSE TITLES: Users will have access to a complete list of pocket BLU™-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray™. They can view free previews and see what additional content is available to unlock on their device.

• KEYBOARD: Entering data is fast and easy with your device’s intuitive keyboard.

• uHEAR™: Never miss another line of dialogue with this innovative feature that instantly skips back a few seconds on your Blu-ray™ disc and turns on the subtitles to highlight what you missed.

SYNOPSIS

Experience one of the most significant milestones in film history like never before with To Kill a Mockingbird 50th Anniversary Edition. Screen legend Gregory Peck stars as courageous Southern lawyer Atticus Finch – the Academy Award®-winning performance hailed by the American Film Institute as the Greatest Movie Hero of All Time. Based on Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel about innocence, strength and conviction and nominated for eight Academy Awards®, this beloved classic is now digitally remastered and fully restored for optimum picture and sound quality and boasts hours of unforgettable bonus features. Watch it and remember why “it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”

CAST AND FILMMAKERS:

Cast: Gregory Peck, Robert Duvall, Brock Peters, Mary Badham, John Megna, Rosemary Murphy,
William Windom
Directed By: Robert Mulligan
Screenplay By: Horton Foote fom the novel by Harper Lee
Producers: Alan J. Pakula
Director of Photography: Russell Harlan
Edited By: Aaron Stell
Costume Designer: Rosemary Odell
Original Music By: Elmer Bernstein

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

BLU-RAY™

Street Date: January 31, 2012
Copyright: 1962 Universal Studios
Selection Number: Limited Edition Collector’s Series Combo Pack: 61121056, Blu-ray™ Combo
Pack: 61121057, Canadian Collector’s Series Combo Pack: 61121286000, Canadian Blu-ray™
Combo Pack: 61121285
Running Time: 2 hours, 10 minutes
Layers: BD-50
Picture: Black and White
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 1.85:1
Rating: Not Rated, Canadian: PG, Quebec: G
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, French, Spanish
Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 / DTS 2.0 Mono, French DTS 2.0 Mono

DVD

Street Date: January 31, 2012
Copyright: 1962 Universal Studios
Selection Number: 61115344, Canadian: 61120630
Running Time: 2 hours, 10 minutes
Layers: DVD-9
Picture: Black and White
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 1.85:1
Rating: Not Rated
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French
Sound: English Dolby Digital 5.1 / Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono, French Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/to-kill-a-mockingbird-50th-anniversary-edition-available-on-blu-ray-january-31-2012/feed/ 1 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/super-8-hide-and-tweet-game-launched-in-celebration-of-blu-ray-dvd-debut/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/super-8-hide-and-tweet-game-launched-in-celebration-of-blu-ray-dvd-debut/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:42:51 +0000 Michelle McCue http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=108168

ENTER THE WORLD OF MYSTERY AND ADVENTURE
CREATED BY DIRECTOR J.J. ABRAMS
IN HIS BREATHTAKING SMASH HIT
SUPER 8 WITH A GAME OF “HIDE AND TWEET”

In Celebration Of Blu-ray™ and DVD Debut, Clues To Locations Of Hidden Prizes In 20 Cities To Begin Appearing On Twitter Today

Paramount Home Entertainment (PHE) invites fans across the country to enter into the world of mystery and adventure created by director J.J. Abrams in his sensational coming-of-age story SUPER 8 with a unique Twitter promotion. In celebration of the film’s home entertainment debut on November 22, PHE will hide Blu-ray/DVD Combo Packs signed by J.J. Abrams in 20 cities across the U.S. and begin offering clues to the locations today via the film’s @Super8Movie Twitter account and Super8Tweet.com. Each day, the clues will get more specific until all of the prizes are found.

Consumers who find the Blu-ray/DVD Combo Packs will not only receive a copy of the film autographed by the director, but will have a chance to win additional prizes, including tickets to the premiere of Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol, a collection of Abrams’ films on Blu-ray, additional signed merchandise and more.

“We are all so grateful for the reception Super 8 received, and wanted to give fans of the movie a little real life adventure,” said Abrams. “There are some pretty cool prizes awaiting the winners of Hide and Tweet and we hope people have fun playing.”

Fans can use the Super8Tweet.com microsite to piece together tweeted clues about where to find a copy of the film autographed by the director and additional mystery prizes. Anyone who finds a prize can post photos on Twitter using the hashtag #Super8Movie.

Called “the year’s most thrilling movie” (Richard Corliss, Time), SUPER 8 tells the exhilarating story of a group of friends in a small Ohio town who witness a catastrophic train crash while making a super 8 movie.  When they realize that it was no accident, they set out to find the truth—something more shocking than any of them could have imagined. The SUPER 8 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack with Digital Copy boasts more than two hours of enthralling special features including eight behind-the-scenes featurettes, an in-depth deconstruction of the breathtaking train crash, interviews with cast and crew including J.J. Abrams and Steven Spielberg and more.

For more information or to join the search follow @Super8Movie on Twitter!

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/super-8-hide-and-tweet-game-launched-in-celebration-of-blu-ray-dvd-debut/feed/ 1 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/super-8-coming-to-blu-ray-november-22/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/super-8-coming-to-blu-ray-november-22/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:53:16 +0000 Michelle McCue http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=108061

Acclaimed Filmmakers Steven Spielberg and J.J. Abrams Join Forces to Create an Extraordinary Tale of Youth, Mystery, and Nostalgic Adventure: SUPER 8

Captivating Coming-Of-Age Story Premieres in a Blu-ray™/DVD Combo with Digital Copy November 22, 2011, Featuring Over Two Hours of Bonus Material Including In-Depth, Behind-the-Scenes Featurettes, Deleted Scenes and More

Called “this year’s most thrilling movie” (Richard Corliss, Time), writer/director J.J. Abrams’ (Star Trek) breathtaking adventure SUPER 8 debuts in a Blu-ray™/DVD Combo Pack with Digital Copy November 22, 2011 from Paramount Home Entertainment. Produced by Amblin, Bad Robot and Academy Award® winner* Steven Spielberg, the exhilarating story follows a group of friends in a small Ohio town who witness a catastrophic train crash while making a super 8 movie. When they realize that it was no accident, they set out to find the truth—something more shocking than any of them could have imagined. Combining action, humor and heart, the film features outstanding performances from a fresh young cast including Elle Fanning (Somewhere), Gabriel Basso (“The Big C”), Zach Mills ( Kit Kittredge: An American Girl) and newcomers Joel Courtney, Riley Griffiths and Ryan Lee, along with veteran actors Kyle Chandler (“Friday Night Lights”) and Ron Eldard (“Blind Justice”).

The SUPER 8 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack with Digital Copy includes more than two hours of enthralling special features including eight behind-the-scenes featurettes exploring the origins of the story, the casting, the locations, the music, the impact of 8mm film and more; an in-depth deconstruction of the breathtaking train crash; interviews with cast and crew including J.J. Abrams and Steven Spielberg; deleted scenes; and commentary by J.J. Abrams, producer Bryan Burk and cinematographer Larry Fong. SUPER 8 will also be available as a single-disc DVD.

Follow on Twitter: @Super8Movie #SUPER8MOVIE

SUPER 8 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack with Digital Copy

The SUPER 8 Blu-ray is presented in 1080p high definition with English 7.1 Dolby TrueHD, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital and English Audio Description with English, English SDH, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles. The DVD is presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 televisions with English 5.1 Surround and English, French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles. The Digital Copy is presented in English 2.0 Stereo with no subtitles. The Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack contents are as follows:

Blu-ray:

• Commentary by writer/director J.J. Abrams, producer Bryan Burk and cinematographer Larry Fong
• Behind-the-Scenes Featurettes
  • The Dream Behind Super 8
  • The Search for New Faces
  • Meet Joel Courtney
  • Rediscovering Steel Town
  • The Visitor Lives
  • Scoring Super 8
  • Do You Believe in Magic?
  • The 8mm Revolution
• Deconstructing the Train Crash
• Deleted Scenes

DVD:

• Feature Film
• Digital Copy

SUPER 8 will also be available in a single disc DVD presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 televisions with Dolby Digital English 5.1 Surround, French 5.1 Surround, Spanish 5.1 Surround and English Audio Description with English, French and Spanish subtitles. The disc includes the following:

• Commentary by writer/director J.J. Abrams, producer Bryan Burk and cinematographer Larry Fong
• The Dream Behind Super 8
• The Visitor Lives

SUPER 8

Street Date: November 22, 2011

Pricing:

$29.99 U.S. (DVD)

$39.99 U.S. (Blu-ray/DVD Combo)

Runtime: 111 minutes

U.S. Rating: PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, language and some drug use

Canadian Rating: 14A for frightening scenes, violence and coarse language

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/super-8-coming-to-blu-ray-november-22/feed/ 1 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/paramount-home-entertainment-to-release-very-first-best-picture-academy-award-winner-on-blu-ray-and-dvd-for-first-time-ever-wings-on-january-24/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/paramount-home-entertainment-to-release-very-first-best-picture-academy-award-winner-on-blu-ray-and-dvd-for-first-time-ever-wings-on-january-24/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:03:34 +0000 Michelle McCue http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=108066

Paramount Home Entertainment kicks off the studio’s centennial celebration in 2012 by releasing the inaugural Best Picture Academy Award® winner WINGS for the first time ever on Blu-ray™ and DVD January 24, 2012. Meticulously restored to give fans the chance to view the visually stunning epic in pristine condition, the 1927 World War I drama explores the devastating effects of war through the story of two men who go off to battle and the woman they both leave behind. Featuring groundbreaking aerial dogfights and epic battle sequences, WINGS is both a cinematic spectacle and a compelling story of love and sacrifice that effectively dramatizes the bitter wages of war.  The historic piece of cinema stars Clara Bow, Charles “Buddy” Rogers and Richard Arlen, and also features Gary Cooper in one of his first feature film roles.

The filming of WINGS was a major undertaking for Paramount Pictures when it began shooting in September of 1926. Because the studio planned to make the film a major roadshow feature, executives immediately cast the top film star of the day, Clara Bow.  However, director William Wellman wanted to cast lesser-known actors around Bow and ultimately chose Buddy Rogers and Richard Arlen, as well as the unknown Gary Cooper in a small, but key role.

Because of the extraordinary demands of the epic, the studio reached out to the U.S. Army for assistance and the picture was made with the cooperation of the largest garrison of troops in the U.S. at the time in San Antonio, Texas. Large-scale battlefields were built on more than five acres of land near the barracks and thousands of real-life soldiers appeared in the massive ground sequences.

For the breathtaking aerial battles, groundbreaking new film techniques were used to capture a sense of authenticity that audiences of the day had never experienced before. In fact, WINGS was one of the first films in which the actors actually went up in real planes and were able to activate the mounted cameras themselves—a brave feat for the likes of Buddy Rogers, who had never flown before.

At a time when few films cost as much as $1 million, WINGS ‘ budget soared to an extraordinary $2 million.  But the investment paid off when the film opened and became a resounding hit, playing for over a year at its original New York engagement. And in 1929 WINGS became the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, as well as a second Academy Award for Engineering Effects, now known as special effects.

Because the original negative was lost decades ago, contemporary audiences have only seen WINGS in a compromised form. The restoration process utilized a duplicate negative housed in the Paramount archive, but despite this being the best element available, the negative was beset by damage, including entire reels that were strafed with scratches and printed-in nitrate deterioration that was literally eating into the edges of the frames. Using state-of-the-art digital tools normally used to create special effects, the film was meticulously restored frame-by-frame.  Original tints and effects, such as colors that were embossed onto the film strip to give flames and explosions a fiery look, were also digitally recreated based on a detailed continuity script that still existed and tinting/toning guides from the period.

For this release, the film’s original paper score was procured from the Library of Congress and recorded with a full orchestra.  Like many silent film scores, the music was a combination of original composition, popular songs of the period and themes from classical music.  Musicians with expertise in silent film music were chosen to recreate a truly orchestral experience.

In addition, Academy Award-winning sound designer Ben Burtt (Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark) and the outstanding team of sound engineers at Skywalker Sound added World War I sound effects as authentically as possible using library sounds from earlier eras to give viewers a true-to-the-period experience.

The WINGS Blu-ray includes the new documentaries “Wings: Grandeur in the Sky,” which gives perspective on the remarkable cinematic achievements of William Wellman and his team of filmmakers; “Dogfight”, which explores the history of early aeronautics; and “Restoring the Power and Beauty of Wings“, which details the painstaking process of returning this monumental epic to its original glory.

WINGS Blu-ray

The WINGS Blu-ray is presented in 1080p high definition with a newly-restored musical score by J.S. Zamecnik in 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and an organ score by Gaylord Carter in 2.0 Dolby Digital that Wings fans may be familiar with, as well as French, Spanish and Portuguese subtitles. Disc contents are as follows:

• Wings: Grandeur in the Sky
• Dogfight!
• Restoring the Power and Beauty of Wings

WINGS DVD

The WINGS DVD is presented in full screen with a newly-restored musical score by J.S. Zamecnik in 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround and an organ score by Gaylord Carter in 2.0 Dolby Digital, as well as French and Spanish subtitles. The disc includes “Wings: Grandeur in the Sky.

WINGS

Street date: January 24, 2012

Suggested Retail Price:

• $29.99 U.S. (Blu-ray) 
• $24.99 U.S. (DVD)

Runtime: 144 minutes

U.S. Rating: Not Rated

Canadian Rating: PG

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/paramount-home-entertainment-to-release-very-first-best-picture-academy-award-winner-on-blu-ray-and-dvd-for-first-time-ever-wings-on-january-24/feed/ 0 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/lady-and-the-tramp-and-cinderella-make-their-way-to-blu-ray/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/lady-and-the-tramp-and-cinderella-make-their-way-to-blu-ray/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2011 23:19:25 +0000 Melissa Howland http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=107585

DISNEY TO RELEASE TWO AMAZING CLASSICS FROM THE VAULT IN 2012…

LADY AND THE TRAMP & CINDERELLA

BOTH FILMS WILL SOON BE ADDED TO THE COMPANY’S PRESTIGOUS
COLLECTION OF BLU-RAY™ HI-DEF DIAMOND EDITION CLASSICS

The Walt Disney Studios proudly announces the addition of LADY AND THE TRAMP and CINDERELLA to its coveted, cutting-edge Blu-ray™ Diamond Collection line-up of animated classics. Released from the Disney vault for a limited time only, the lovingly pampered cocker spaniel and the mutt from across the tracks will unveil on February 7, 2012 and Cinderella’s clock will strike midnight in Fall 2012.

Disney’s Blu-ray Diamond Collection represents The Walt Disney Studios’ most prestigious and treasured animated classics. Diamond Edition titles boast the highest level of picture and sound; feature groundbreaking, state-of-the-art immersive bonus content; and include unprecedented levels of interactivity, personalization and customization, made possible because of Blu-ray technology.

To date, the company has released four Diamond Edition titles – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Beauty and the Beast, Bambi and The Lion King.

About Lady and the Tramp:
Generations of fans have fallen in love with Disney’s 15th animated masterpiece — an irresistible song-filled adventure about Lady, a lovingly pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a roguish mutt from across the tracks.

When Aunt Sarah moves in with her devious felines Si and Am to baby-sit, the very protective Lady soon finds herself being fitted for the unthinkable — a muzzle! In her bid for freedom, she meets and is charmed by Tramp, dog-about-town. Together with friends Jock, Trusty, and Peg, they share thrilling adventures on an enchanting evening as Lady learns what it means to be footloose and leash-free.

About Cinderella:
Disney’s Cinderella has enchanted generations with its unforgettable story, Academy Award®-nominated music (1950 for Scoring of a Musical Picture, Song “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” and Sound Recording) and endearing characters. With a wave of her wand and some “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-
Boo,” Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother transforms an ordinary pumpkin into a magnificent coach and Cinderella’s rags into a gorgeous gown, and then sends her off to the royal ball. But Cinderella’s enchanted evening must end when the spell is broken at midnight. It will take the help of her daring animal friends Jaq and Gus and a perfect fit into a glass slipper to create the ultimate fairy tale ending.

About Walt Disney Studios:

For more than 85 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company (DIS: NYSE) was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under four banners: Walt Disney Pictures, which includes Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Touchstone Pictures; and Marvel. Original music and motion picture soundtracks are produced under Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records, while Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Broadway theatrical productions, Disney on Ice and Disney LIVE!. For more information, please visit www.disney.com.

LADY AND THE TRAMP

Synopsis: A classic love story unfolds in the best Disney tradition as a lovely young pedigreed cocker spaniel named Lady, who lives a pampered life, finds herself falling romantically for Tramp, an amorous street-smart pooch without prospects. Although they have fun together on several dates, including a sentimental spaghetti dinner by moonlight at Tony’s restaurant, their relationship is strained not only by Lady’s loyalty to her human family and their newborn baby, but by Tramp’s devil-may-care attitude that eventually gets Lady in trouble and tossed into the dog pound. However, good-hearted Tramp redeems himself by saving the baby from potential harm and thus wins Lady’s love and the affection of her human family.

Share this timeless Disney Classic with your family as Walt Disney’s beloved classic, Lady and the Tramp, finally releases from the Disney Vault for the first time ever on Blu-ray. This heartwarming tale now charms a new generation of families and fans with its exquisite animation and unforgettable songs in one of the greatest love stories of all time. Featuring high definition sound and immersive bonus features your family
can enjoy together, Lady and the Tramp Diamond Edition is a must own addition to your Disney collection.

Voice Talent:

Barbara Luddy (Sleeping Beauty, 101 Dalmatians) as Lady
Larry Roberts (Theatre background with Circle Theatre in Los Angeles) as Tramp
Peggy Lee (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, American Beauty) as Darling, Si, Am
& Peg
Bill Thompson (Peter Pan, Alice In Wonderland) as Jock, Joe, Bulldog, Dachsie & the
Policeman
Bill Baucom (TV’s “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp,” Judge Roy Bean) as Trusty
Stan Freberg (Stuart Little, Looney Tunes: Back In Action) as Beaver
Lee Millar (TV’s “I Love Lucy,” The George and Gracie Allen Show) as Jim Dear & the
Dogcatcher

Producer: Walt Disney

Directors: Clyde Geronimi (Alice In Wonderland, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty)
Wilfred Jackson (Snow White, Pinocchio, Dumbo)
Hamilton Luske (Alice In Wonderland, Cinderella, Pinocchio)

Blu-ray Bonus: Disney Second Screen: Inside Walt’s Story Meetings*
Audio Commentary: Inside Walt’s Story Meetings
Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
Three Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
Never Recorded Song: “I’m Free as the Breeze”
Classic DVD Bonus:

• Lady’s Pedigree: The Making of Lady and the Tramp
• Finding Lady: The Art of the Storyboard
• Original 1943 Storyboard Version of the Film
• PuppyPedia: Going to the Dogs
• “The Siamese Cat Song,” Finding a Voice for the Cats
• “Bella Notte” Music Video
• Trailers
• Excerpts from “Disneyland” TV Shows

DVD Bonus:

• Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
• PuppyPedia: Going to the Dogs

Digital Bonus:

• Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
• Three Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
• PuppyPedia: Going to the Dogs

Street Dates: Blu-ray & High Definition Digital = February 7, 2012
(Direct Prebook: 12/13/11; Distributor Prebook: 12/27/11)

DVD & Standard Definition Digital= March 27, 2012
(Direct Prebook: 1/31/12; Distributor Prebook: 2/14/12)

Rated: G (bonus materials not rated)

Feature Run Time: Approximately 76 minutes

Suggested Retail Prices 3-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy) = $44.99 U.S./$51.99 Canada
and Product 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + DVD) = $39.99 U.S./$46.99 Canada
Configurations: 1-Disc DVD = $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada
High Definition Digital = $39.99 U.S./$46.99 Canada
Standard Digital = $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Aspect Ratio: 2.55:1

Sound: Blu-ray Feature Film – 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
DVD Feature Film – 5.1 Disney Enhanced Home Theater Mix

Languages: English, French and Spanish

Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish

*This feature may not be available in all territories.

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/lady-and-the-tramp-and-cinderella-make-their-way-to-blu-ray/feed/ 2 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/winnie-the-pooh-the-blu-review/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/winnie-the-pooh-the-blu-review/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:06:23 +0000 Melissa Howland http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=104966

Hand-drawn animation, lovable characters, and a timeless story all make WINNIE THE POOH a must for your movie collection!

All is well in the Hundred Acre Wood. Winnie the Pooh is in search of honey. There is no honey left in his house and his tummy will not stop grumbling at him until Pooh finds some. While on his quest he finds Eeyore, who seems more down than normal. Turns out that his tail has gone missing. They gather up the gang and hold a contest to see who can find Eeyore a new tail. While out and about, searching for tails and such, Pooh finds a note from Christopher Robin that says “Gone out. Busy. Back soon.” and brings it to Owl to read. See, there isn’t a lot of reading going on in the Hundred Acre Wood, and Owl is the smartest of them all. Of course, this isn’t exactly Owl’s strong-suit either, and now they are all convinced that Christopher Robin has been kidnapped by some sort of monster called the “Backson”. What started out as a normal day has now become a quest… for honey, Eeyore’s tail, and  to rescue Christopher Robin from the “Backson”.

WINNIE THE POOH is presented in 1080p/AVC-encoded video transfer, which looks divine. It really captures all of the pencil marks, and the warmth of the hand-drawn animation. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is just what it needs to be. It isn’t overpowering and ear shattering. It is just enough to compliment the softness of Pooh, which I appreciate.

They didn’t go overboard on the bonus features on these discs. However, the features they did put on are great. (Well, except for one which I will explain!)

Bonus Features:

• Exclusive bonus short “Mini-Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: The Balloon” – In this charming short, Pooh comes up with a daring plan to get a hold of some honey by fooling a group of bees. It really is quite adorable. I love that they included bonus animations in the packaging!
• “The Ballad of Nessie” – The animated short film included in the theatrical release is the heartwarming tale of how Nessie found her new home in the Loch Ness. FANTASTIC! I loved this in the theaters and now I am glad that I own it. (Sidenote: I think Nessie should be friends with the Elliot from PETE’S DRAGON. They would be amazing friends!)
• “Winnie the Pooh and His Story Too” – A fun and informative behind-the-scenes look at the film, designed for the whole family. Hosted by John Cleese (narrator of the film), and with occasional help fromPooh himself, this featurette explores Winnie the Pooh’s history from his beginnings as a character in a book, to his continued life in the movies. If you are a fan of Pooh, you will really appreciate the stories in this feature. The filmmakers reveal how they worked to keep the look of the characters and settings in this movie consistent with their first appearances on-screen in1966. Pooh, being a bear of very little mind, finds much of this confusing, but the Narrator and the filmmakers make it all clear to Pooh – and you!
• Deleted Scenes introduced by directors, Stephen Anderson and Don Hall – 5 deleted scenes including “The Tummy Song,” “”Rabbit’s Friends and Relations,” “Original Eeyore Intro,” “Original Tigger Intro” and “Pooh Searches for a Tail”. What is neat about these scenes is that they are not fully animated, so we get to see some rough sketches and the beginnings of the animation.
• Sing-Along with the Movie – Follow the red balloon and changing word colors to seven song lyrics featured in the film.
• Disney Song Selection – “Winnie the Pooh Theme Song,” “The Tummy Song, “A Very Important Thing To Do,” “The Backson Song,” “It’s Gonna Be Great,” “Everything is Honey” and “The Winner Song Finale”

WINNIE THE POOH is out on Blu-Ray, DVD and Combo Packs now. This film is a must for any film library!

Overall Rating: 4.75 out of 5 stars

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/winnie-the-pooh-the-blu-review/feed/ 2 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/cars-2-the-blu-review/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/cars-2-the-blu-review/#comments Wed, 02 Nov 2011 02:59:27 +0000 Melissa Howland http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=108279

Although CARS 2 is not my favorite Pixar film, the Blu-Ray / DVD Combo Pack is still fun.

CARS 2 is the tale of Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater as they take their friendship to exciting new places, and head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell. Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

It’s not that I don’t find Cars 2 enjoyable, it’s just that I don’t think it’s as captivating as the rest of the Pixar releases. Although it’s stunning, and at times funny, I found parts to be a bit lackluster and dull. Still, it’s not bad. It’s story is just a bit “middle of the road”.

VIDEO QUALITY: MPEG-4 AVC 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer Ratio: 2.39:1

The film looks magnificent! Pixar has high standards when it comes to how their films look, and this is certainly no exception.

AUDIO QUALITY: English: DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1

Pitch perfect sound makes the action in CARS 2 even more enjoyable! I honestly can find nothing wrong with this impeccable audio.

Although most of the bonus features are limited to the 5 disc 3D combo fact, which is a bit of a disappointment if you love the bonus material like I do. The shorts are fun, and the commentary is interesting. Still, I can’t help but feel cheated. In my opinion, putting the majority of the features only on the 3D combo pack is going to isolate their audience and only make them angry.

• Audio Commentary: Directors John Lasseter and Brad Lewis offer their non-stop commentary that is sure to please fans of the film, as well as animation die-hards. They cover production and story development. The whole discussion is engaging and fun.
• Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” (HD, 6 minutes): Barbie and Ken are a bit sad, so Buzz, Woody and the gang stage a trip to Hawaii for them without ever leaving Bonnie’s room. These shorts are always fun, and this one is no exception!
•  Cars Toon “Air Mater” (HD, 6 minutes): Produced by Pixar Canada, Mater is up to his shenanigans again with this installment of his Tall Tales.
• Sneak Peeks (HD, 10 minutes):

• Pixar’s BRAVE
• PLANES
• THE MUPPETS
• LADY AND THE TRAMP Diamond Edition
• CARS 2: The Videogame
• NAUGHTY vs. NICE
• SECRET OF THE WINGS

Although CARS 2 is not the best of the Pixar tales, it looks and sounds amazing on Blu-Ray. Still, we want more features… and not only on the 3D Combo Pack!

OVERALL BLU-RAY / DVD COMBO PACK REVIEW: 3.75 out of 5 stars

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/cars-2-the-blu-review/feed/ 0 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/cars-2-qa-with-owen-wilson-larry-the-cable-guy/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/cars-2-qa-with-owen-wilson-larry-the-cable-guy/#comments Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:57:05 +0000 Melissa Howland http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=105985

The Finish Line is Straight Ahead!!!

TODAY, Disney releases CARS 2 on Blu-ray 3D & Blu-ray Hi-Def Combo Pack!  In celebration, we present you with brand new Q&A Interviews with Owen Wilson and Larry The Cable Guy!

Star racecar Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell. Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

OWEN WILSON (Lightning McQueen)

Was it easy to step back into the role of Lightning McQueen for “Cars 2”?
It felt pretty seamless to return to Lightning McQueen after all these years. In fact, it felt like I was catching up with an old friend. I liked the idea of already having the character worked out, but taking him on a whole new adventure. Plus, I was really excited when John Lasseter decided he was going to direct the movie. It couldn’t have worked out better for me.

What can you tell us about the story of the sequel?
“Cars 2” is an action-packed global adventure and we take the crazy “Cars” characters all over the world. There’s also a fun espionage element to the story with the excellent Michael Caine playing a British spy. The movie is a really fun ride.

Where in the world do the characters visit?
The gang travels around the world to places like Paris, London, the Italian Riviera and Japan. The thing I enjoy the most about seeing these places is the way the Pixar animators “car”-ify the locations and the buildings. Instead of Big Ben in London, there’s Big Bentley. Different buildings and locations are made up of car parts. It’s amazing to see.

What new characters do we meet in “Cars 2”?
The filmmakers did a great job of populating the world with fantastic new characters, including spies Finn McMissile, voiced by Michael Caine and Holley Shiftwell, voiced by Emily Mortimer. One of the fun things about the espionage in the film is that they’ve created lots of cool gadgets for the spies. It makes the movie that much more fresh and exciting.

Are you a fan of spy movies and espionage?
I have always been a fan of spy films, especially James Bond. I grew up with Roger Moore playing Bond and my favorite spy movie has got to be “The Spy Who Loved Me” because of the villain Jaws. Jaws was the guy with the metal teeth and he was such a great, iconic villain. I’ve never forgotten him.

What is it like to work with Pixar?
As an actor, working with Pixar has been one of the highlights of my career. The standard of excellence that they set is unmatched. It’s great to be a part of something that they’re doing because their movies stand the test of time.

Why do you think Pixar movies are so popular?
I think the reason their movies are so popular is that they take on universal themes, but tell stories in such a personal, unique and passionate way. You know what? They never cease to amaze me.

Were you surprised by the success of “Cars”?
The success has been incredible. I was in Hawaii recently and an Argentinean family told me that their kids are fanatical about the movie. They watched the first “Cars” 50 times and they couldn’t wait to see the sequel. It’s incredible to work on movies that work their way into the culture the way Pixar movies do.

How much fun do you have in the recording booth?
It’s a whole lot of fun in there. You go in with John Lasseter and feed off his energy and enthusiasm. He gives you the context of the scene and you go for it.

Do you ever work alongside your fellow voice actors?
No, it’s usually just John Lasseter and me, but I’m fine with that. It’s always great to work opposite someone in live-action where you get something back from your acting colleagues, but this seems to work just as well. It’s not a problem.

Do you get the chance to improvise in the sound booth?
To be honest, they have everything scripted so there’s no need to improvise. I’ve added a few lines along the way, but not many. In the original movie, I blurted out the word “ka-chow” and they keep adding it into the script because they like it.

What can you tell us about the DVD and Blu-ray extras for “Cars 2”?
There’s a lot of extra material on the discs, including a commentary from John Lasseter and some short films.

Are you a fan of DVDs and all the extras that come with them?
Yes, I am. I think it’s great to own the DVD of a movie that you really love, especially when you’re able to hear the director talk about his inspiration and the way that he makes his decisions. I’m a huge fan.

Are you a fan of 3D, too?
Yes, I love it. Filmmakers are getting much better at 3D now and it’s amazing to think that “Cars 2” will be released in this format on Blu-ray, too. As a viewer, I used to think, “Geez, how can they improve on HD?” Well, 3D does that. It’s a whole new world.

As a family man, are you looking forward to your son being able to watch “Cars 2” when he gets a bit older?
Very much so. I’ve heard they’re building a “Cars” land at Disneyland, so I imagine that will be a fun destination for us in a couple of years.

What goes through your mind when you start working on a movie?
The first thing that goes through my mind when I start work on a project is the hope that it will turn out well. You hope people will want to see the movie, enjoy it or be drawn to whatever it was that interested you in the script. Sometimes it works out, but sometimes it doesn’t. Thankfully, “Cars 2” didn’t miss the mark.

LARRY THE CABLE GUY (Mater)

How did you react when you discovered that Mater would have a larger role in “Cars 2”?
When I signed up for the sequel, I had no idea that Mater would be the star of the movie. [“Cars 2” director] John Lasseter used a storyboard to walk me through the story during one of my early meetings for the movie and that’s when I first discovered Mater’s role had been upgraded. My first reaction was, “Well, it sounds like Mater is going to have a pretty good part in this!”

Did you have any idea how popular “Cars” would become when you first signed up for the role?
When I first got the role, I had no idea that the movie and the characters would become as popular as they did. We hoped for success, but we had no idea what was going to happen. As soon as the first movie was released, I realized we had ourselves a very successful cartoon.

How did you win the role of Mater?
When the filmmakers first started work on “Cars,” I got a fax from my manager saying Pixar wanted me to voice a tow truck in their new movie. Mater wasn’t even named Mater at that point. He had a completely different name. I immediately said, “I’d love to be involved.” It was Pixar! Who wouldn’t jump at the chance?

Do you know why they chose you in particular?
John Lasseter said he’d been talking to lots of people, but he hadn’t found the right voice for the tow truck in the film. Then he listened to a “Blue Collar Comedy Tour” CD, which is when he heard my voice for the first time. He realized he’d found his tow truck within the first 30 seconds of listening. He apparently said, “That’s him. That is it. Call that guy up.”

Mater has a lot of scenes with a character called Holley Shiftwell in “Cars 2.” Do you know why British actress Emily Mortimer was chosen for the role of Holley?
John saw Emily in a couple of movies and I can guarantee you that he also saw her getting interviewed by TV crews and the press. During those interviews, he would have seen her personality shining through. From my experience, I know that’s how he would’ve decided that he wanted Emily for the role of Holley. He hires people because of their personalities and you see those personalities when they’re being interviewed.

Did you get the chance to record any of your dialogue with Emily?
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to work with Emily in the sound booth because we always record our voices solo. I don’t think they recorded any of the actors together, which is weird, but it works.

Where did you record your dialogue for the movie?
I record all of my audio at Pixar near San Francisco. But if you can’t make it out there, they make it easy and they come to you. For the “Cars Toons,” they came to me in a studio in Orlando, Florida. They are a very versatile bunch.

Do you get to see any of the movie before you record your dialogue?
No, we don’t get to see any of the animation. We just walk into the recording booth with John Lasseter and he takes us through everything. He tells us exactly what the scene is going to be like. He sets the mood and he tells us exactly how we should play it. He might say, “In this scene, you’re really excited. You’ve just met so-and-so for the first time and you’re over the moon.” It’s a pretty cool process and John is a master at it.

Were you nervous when you recorded Mater’s dialogue for the first time?
When I first started doing the voice for “Cars,” I admitted to John that I was really nervous. This was John Lasseter and Pixar! I couldn’t believe I was part of the project, but luckily he’s very comfortable to work with and pretty soon I calmed down.

What do you think of the animation in “Cars 2”?
The animation gets better and better with every Pixar movie. I was amazed when I saw the first scene of “Cars 2” with the water and the ocean. It looks incredible. I have no idea how an animator can make a fake ship look so real, but that’s exactly what they’ve done here. It blows me away every time.

Do you still pinch yourself when you hear your voice coming out of Mater’s mouth?
It’s crazy, but I never thought in a million years that I would be able to say that I was in a movie with an actor like Michael Caine. That’s not bad for a kid from a town of 1,200 in southeast Nebraska.

You must be incredibly proud…
Oh, I am. I’m over the moon.

Why do you think Pixar is so successful?
Pixar is successful because they are the best at what they do. There are lots of animated movies in the world, but a lot of them don’t have great stories. Then there are great stories with bad animation. Pixar does both well. It’s the market leader.

What’s it like to visit Pixar?
I love visiting Pixar. It’s awesome. It’s such an amazing place. I told John Lasseter, “Man, I bet you don’t have much of a staff turnover at this place.” He said, “That’s the problem. Nobody wants to go home. People come into work at nine o’clock in the morning, but they’re still here at nine and ten o’clock at night.”

How much of that is because of John Lasseter?
I think a lot of it has to do with John Lasseter. He’s a great leader. He has also become a great friend of mine and I love his enthusiasm for animation. He’s always happy about the work. He’s always enthusiastic, and it’s completely contagious. He’s the best.

 CARS 2 races to DVD and Blu-Ray today

For more information about the movie, check out Disney.com/cars. Like CARS 2 on Facebook:facebook.com/pixarcars, and follow “Cars 2″ on Twitter: twitter.com/disneypixar.

 

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/11/cars-2-qa-with-owen-wilson-larry-the-cable-guy/feed/ 0 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/10/rise-of-the-planet-of-the-apes-on-dvdblu-raydigital-download-december-13th/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/10/rise-of-the-planet-of-the-apes-on-dvdblu-raydigital-download-december-13th/#comments Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:54:31 +0000 Michelle McCue http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=104806

BRING CEASAR HOME ON BLU-RAY

Evolution Becomes Revolution In The Critically-Acclaimed
Over $432 Million Worldwide Box Office Smash Arriving Globally
on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Download in December

A single act of both compassion and arrogance leads to a battle unlike any other when RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES makes its worldwide debut on Blu-ray, DVD and digital download on December 13^th in North America and starting December 7^th Internationally. From the Oscar-winning® visual effects team that brought to life the worlds of Avatar and Lord of the Rings comes revolutionary new ground – a CGI ape that delivers a dramatic performance of unprecedented emotion and intelligence, and epic battles on which rest the upended destinies of man and primate.

James Franco (127 Hours) stars as Will Rodman, a neuroscientist living in San Francisco trying to develop a cure for Alzheimer’s disease by testing on chimpanzees, giving them a human level of intelligence. After a test subject’s baby, Caesar, is orphaned, Will decides to raise him at home on his own with his Alzheimer-stricken father (John Lithgow; “Dexter”).  What begins simply as a continuation of his experiment quickly turns into a problem for Will, as Caesar is taken away from him and forced to live in a primate facility. As Caesar’s intelligence continues to grow, he begins to stake his claim as the leader of his new primate counterparts, which will ultimately lead to the RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES.

Directed by Rupert Wyatt (The Escapist), this special effects blockbuster features fantastic supporting performances from Freida Pinto (Slumdog Millionaire), Brian Cox (Red), Tom Felton (Harry Potter films) and Andy Serkis (The Lord of the Rings Trilogy) in a ground-breaking performance. The RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES Blu-ray is loaded with bonus material including deleted scenes, making-of featurettes commentaries and more.

**Exact product configurations will vary by individual territories**

RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES Blu-ray + Digital Copy (North America)

• Feature Film
• Deleted Scenes
  • Alpha Gets Shot
  • Will’s Meeting with Lab Assistants
  • Will Discovers Caesar Has Solved Puzzles
  • Caesar Plays with Bicycle
  • Caesar Questions His Identity
  • Caesar Bites Off Neighbors Finger
  • Will Ignores the Risks of an Airborne Mutated Virus
  • Rodney Gives Caesar a Cookie
  • Rocket Gets Hosed by Dodge
  • Caesar Destroys the Lab and Koba’s Attempted Revenge on Jacobs
  • Caesar Pushes Helicopter
  • Koba with Shotgun
  • Pre-vis for The Future
  • Capturing Caesar – Script to Screen
  • Studying the Genius of Andy Serkis
  • Multi-Angle: Rocket Cookie Scene
  • A New Generation of Apes
  • Breaking Motion Capture Boundaries
  • Breaking New Sound Barriers: The Music and Sound Design of Rise of the Planet of the Apes
  • Ape Facts
    • Chimpanzee
    • Gorilla
    • Orangutan
    • Audio Commentary by Director Rupert Wyatt
    • Audio Commentary by Writers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver
    • CharacterConceptArtGallery
    • Three Theatrical Trailers

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is a recognized global industry leader and a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company. Representing 75 years of innovative and award-winning filmmaking from Twentieth Century Fox, TCFHE is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming, acquisitions and original productions on DVD, Blu-ray Disc Digital Copy, Video On Demand and Digital Download. The company also releases all products globally for MGM Home Entertainment. Each year TCFHE introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce throughout the world

]]> http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/10/rise-of-the-planet-of-the-apes-on-dvdblu-raydigital-download-december-13th/feed/ 1 http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/10/fright-night-on-blu-ray-dvd-december-13th/ http://wearemoviegeeks.com/2011/10/fright-night-on-blu-ray-dvd-december-13th/#comments Fri, 14 Oct 2011 20:23:27 +0000 Melissa Howland http://wearemoviegeeks.com/?p=104366

On Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray™, DVD, Digital and On-Demand, December 13, 2011

Complete with never-before-seen, UNRATED bonus features that add to a bloody good time

DreamWorks Pictures’ Fright Night, starring Colin Farrell, arrives onDecember 13, 2011 just in time to take a bite out of the holidays on Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray™, DVD, Digital and On-Demand. Inspired by the 1985 gothic horror cult classic and directed by Craig Gillespie (Lars and the Real Girl,Mr. Woodcock), all hell breaks loose when High School Senior Charley Brewster (Anton Yelchin) discovers his charming new neighbor Jerry (Farrell) is a Vampire preying on his neighborhood.

Packed with un-rated bonus features, the Blu-ray release includes a fang-in-cheek mockumentary “Peter Vincent: Swim Inside My Mind,” a hilarious satirical look at David Tennant’s egocentric “rock star” anti-hero character, Peter Vincent; “The Official How to Make a Funny Vampire Movie Guide;” “Squid Man: Extended and Uncut;” “Frightful Facts & Terrifying Trivia;” “Deleted Scenes;” and a “Gag Reel.” Also included is the uncensored “No One Believes Me” music video directed by Fright Night’s director Craig Gillespie and performed by hip hop recording artist Kid Cudi.

Proclaimed, “A Bloody Good Time” by Trey Alexander (Fandango.com), Fright Night features an all-star cast including: Colin Farrell (Horrible Bosses, Crazy Heart), Anton Yelchin (Star Trek, Terminator Salvation), Toni Collette (Academy Award® nominee for The Sixth Sense, and Golden Globe® winner for United States of Tara), Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Kick Ass, Superbad), David Tennant (Dr. Who, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and Imogen Poots (Jane Eyre, 28 Weeks Later).

Charley (Anton Yelchin) is a high school senior who’s on top of the world—he’s running with the popular crowd and dating Amy (Imogen Poots), the most coveted girl in school. But trouble arrives when Jerry (Colin Farrell) moves in next door. He seems like a nice guy––at first. But there’s something not quite right, and no one else, including Charley’s mom (Toni Collette) seems to notice. After his classmates start to mysteriously disappear without a trace, Charlie discovers that there is more to his new neighbor than meets the eye. Now he must do all he can to protect his mom and girlfriend Amy from meeting the same fate as his best friend Ed Thompson (Christopher Mintz-Plasse).

Fright Night will be available to own and for in-home viewing as follows:

3-Disc Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray 3D + 1 Blu-ray + 1 DVD with Digital Copy)

Suggested Retail Price: $49.99 U.S./$56.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

*Gag Reel (unrated)

*Kid Cudi Music Video (uncensored version) – “No One Believes Me”

*Squid Man – Extended & Uncut

*Peter Vincent: Swim Inside My Mind

*The Official “How to Make a Funny Vampire Movie” Guide

*Frightful Facts & Terrifying Trivia

*5 Deleted Scenes with intros by Director Craig Gillepsie (Ride to School; *Neighborly; Once A Freak, Always A Freak; Midori & Kerosene; and Back at the Penthouse)

2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack (1 Blu-ray + 1 DVD)

Suggested Retail Price: $30.99 U.S./$46.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

*Gag Reel (unrated)

*Kid Cudi Music Video (uncensored version) – “No One Believes Me”

*Squid Man – Extended & Uncut

*Peter Vincent: Swim Inside My Mind

*The Official “How to Make a Funny Vampire Movie” Guide

*Frightful Facts & Terrifying Trivia

*5 Deleted Scenes with intros by Director Craig Gillepsie (Ride to School; *Neighborly; Once A Freak, Always A Freak; Midori & Kerosene; and Back at the Penthouse)

1-Disc DVD (1 DVD)

Suggested Retail Price: $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

*Gag Reel (unrated)

*Kid Cudi Music Video (uncensored version) – “No One Believes Me”

*Squid Man – Extended & Uncut

Digital (3D, High Definition & Standard Definition)

Suggested Retail Price: 3D & High Definition = $39.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Standard Definition = $29.99 U.S./$35.99 Canada

Bonus Features:

*Gag Reel (unrated)

*Kid Cudi Music Video (uncensored version) – “No One Believes Me”

*Squid Man – Extended & uncut

*Live in Las Vegas: An Interview with Peter Vincent

*The Official “How to Make a Funny Vampire Movie” Guide

On-Demand

For additional information and pricing, please contact your television provider or favorite digital retailer. Bonus features are not offered with On-Demand.

SPECIFICATIONS:

STREET DATE: December 13, 2011 (Direct Pre-book: 10/18 / Distributor Pre-book 11/1) Feature Run Time: 106 minutes Rating: U.S.: R/Canadian: CE: 14A (Bonus Material Not Rated) Aspect Ratio: Blu-ray 3D & Blu-ray: 1.78:1 (Feature Film) DVD: 16×9 Widescreen (Feature Film) Audio: Blu-ray 3D & Blu-ray: 7.1 DTS-HD MA (English)/ 5.1 Dolby Digital (French & Spanish) DVD: 5.1 Dolby Languages& Subtitles: English and French

About DreamWorks Studios:

DreamWorks Studios is a motion picture company formed in 2009 and led by Steven Spielberg and Stacey Snider in partnership with The Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group. The company recently released “The Help,” which has resonated with audiences around the country and has earned over $100 million at U.S. box office. Upcoming releases include Steven Spielberg’s “War Horse.” DreamWorks Studios can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/DreamWorksStudios and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/dw_studios.

Social Media:

Those who would like to stay connected with the exciting “Fright Night” release are encouraged to:

*“Like” the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/frightnightmovie

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