Any Given Sunday 15th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray Review

**SYNOPSIS**


Embattled Sharks coach Tony D'Amato (Pacino) faces a full-on blitz of team strife plus a new, marketing-savvy owner (Diaz) who's convinced the aging Tony is out of his league. An injured quarterback (Quaid), a flashy, bull-headed backup QB (Foxx), a slithery team doctor (Woods) and a running back with an incentive-laden contract (LL Cool J) provide some of the stories that zigzag like diagrams in a playbook.





**MOVIE REVIEW**


15 years after it's theatrical debut Any Given Sunday is more relevant than ever given all the controversy surrounding the NFL currently. Director Oliver Stone is at the top of his game and has become one of his best films after multiple viewings. The cast is packed with fun cameos, a breakout performance by Jamie Foxx and Al Pacino as the Sharks coach chews the scenery. The game sequences are brutal and thrilling. Pick this one up and run home fast as you can without fumbling. 9/10


**VIDEO QUALITY**


Any Given Sunday arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 2.39:1 - Colors are varied and exhibit perfect saturation. Some of the more bright an bold hues pop. Black levels are deep and shadow delineation was solid. Fine detail was good in closeups but I did notice a few soft shots during the 2hr 37 minute running time. 8.5/10


**AUDIO QUALITY**


Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - Dialogue is placed front and center remaining crystal clear throughout the film, their are some problems though during game scenes and some of the lines are drowned out. LFE performance features crushing blows on the field and thumping bass to the music cues. Surround activity is used most effectively during game time. Crowd din and panning effects bring you into the action. 8/10


**SPECIAL FEATURES**


* Audio Commentary with Oliver Stone

* Audio Commentary with Jamie Foxx

* Anything Can Happen (HD, 30min) - The only new special feature on the disc, this retrospective features NFL stars Marshall Faulk and Willie McGinest, 49ers coach Steve Mariucci and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. Director Oliver Stone also gives insight on the modern NFL, a look back at the film how it resonates with players today.

* Full Contact: The Making of Any Given Sunday (SD, 27min) - A standard making of doc with talking head interviews. This originally aired on HBO when the film debuted.

* Deleted and Extended Scenes (SD, 33min)

* Music Videos (SD, 7min)
- LL Cool J's Shut Em Down
- Jamie Foxx's "My Name is Willie" and "Any Given Sunday".

* Audition and Screen Tests (SD, 7min)

* Gag Reel (SD, 4min)

* Football and Landscape Outtakes (SD, 12min)

* Instant Replay (HD, 15min)

* Production Stills

* Theatrical Trailer

Kingdom of Heaven: Ultimate Edition on Blu-ray October 7th

20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has officially announced they will release Kingdom of Heaven: Ultimate Edition to Blu-ray on October 7, 2014. The Sir Ridley Scott directed film stars Orlando Bloom, Eva Green and Liam Neeson. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Audio will be provided by a DTS-HD Master 5.1 track. Below are the official details:





From visionary director Sir Ridley Scott comes a cinematic masterpiece with this 2-Disc Blu-ray Edition that includes all three versions of the film — the Director’s Cut, Director’s Cut Roadshow Version and Original Theatrical Version — all presented in high definition, plus over nine hours of in-depth special features, including a full-length documentary that takes you on the path from pre-production to release. On the brink of celebrating its 10th anniversary, a truly legendary cast leads this visually spectacular epic, including Orlando Bloom, Eva Green, Liam Neeson and Academy Award®-winner Jeremy Irons*.

Bloom stars as Balian, a young blacksmith who has lost his family and his faith. But when his father (Neeson) reveals his destiny, Balian joins the heroic fight to protect his people from overwhelming forces, and rises to knighthood.

*Best Actor in a Leading Role; Reversal of Fortune (1991)


**SPECIAL FEATURES**


* All Three Versions of the Film
- Theatrical Version
- Extended Director’s Cut Version
- Director’s Cut “Road Show” Version
* Introduction by Director Sir Ridley Scott
* Pilgrim’s Guide Trivia Track
* The Engineer’s Guide Trivia Track
* Roadshow Commentary with Orlando Bloom, Ridley Scott and Writer William Monahan
* The Path to Redemption
* Sound Design Suite
* Visual Effects Breakdowns
* Press Junket Walkthrough
* World Premieres
* Special Shoot Gallery
* Poster Explorations
* A&E Movie Real
* History vs. Hollywood
* Orlando Bloom “The Adventure of a Lifetime”
* Featurettes and More

Ridley Scott's ALIEN: 35TH Anniversary Edition on Blu-ray October 7th

20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has officially announced they will release director Ridley Scott's classic sci-fi horror film Alien: 35th Anniversary to Blu-ray on October 7, 2014. The film stars Sigourney Weaver. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio. Audio will be provided by a DTS-HD Master 5.1 track. Below are the official details:





A word of warning…. This Halloween revisit one of the scariest films of all-time as ALIEN: 35TH Anniversary Edition arrives on Blu-ray October 7 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. This Limited-Edition Set includes both the theatrical version and director’s cut on Blu-ray, along with audio commentaries, deleted scenes and more — PLUS — a reprint of the original Alien illustrated comic and all-new, collectible art cards as a tribute to the late H.R. Giger, creator of the iconic movie monster that started it all.

When the crew of the space-tug Nostromo responds to a distress signal from a barren planet, they discover a mysterious life form that breeds within human hosts. The acid-blooded extraterrestrial proves to be the ultimate adversary as crew members battle to stay alive and prevent the deadly creature from reaching Earth. Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Sigourney Weaver in her breakout performance as Ripley, this legendary first film in the ALIEN saga will leave you breathless!

Throughout 2014, Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products is honoring the milestone 35th anniversary with a yearlong celebration marking the beginnings of the Alien legacy by releasing commemorative and fan-favorite products. Best in Class licensees including Dark Horse Comics, SEGA, NECA, Titan Publishing, Sideshow Collectibles, Diamond Select toys, Super7 x Funko and other partners will roll out exclusive branded publishing, toys and collectible merchandise worldwide to celebrate the ALIEN franchise. The highly-anticipated first person survival horror game Alien: Isolation will be available on the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system and Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, as well as PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 ® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PC also on October 7. In addition to Alien: Isolation, hardcore fans can finally add Lieutenant Ellen Ripley to their ALIEN collections as we welcome her NECA figures into the family of officially-licensed merchandise. Many other exciting first-time and limited edition products will also release to celebrate this exciting milestone this year.

Fans can also help celebrate the 35th anniversary of ALIEN by joining the fight at www.AlienRevolt.com. Simply login to Facebook to create your profile, choose your team and complete the missions, sharing your triumphs with friends. The more badges you earn the bigger chance you have taking home some great ALIEN prizes including H.R. Giger’s Alien Diaries, a copy of the all-new ALIEN: ISOLATION video game from Sega and more!


**SPECIAL FEATURES**


* Includes the 1979 Theatrical Version and 2003 Director’s Cut!
* Audio Commentary by Director Ridley Scott, Cast and Crew
* Audio Commentary by Ridley Scott (Theatrical Version Only)
* Introduction by Ridley Scott (Director’s Cut Only)
* Final Theatrical Isolated Score by Jerry Goldsmith
* Composer’s Original Isolated Score by Jerry Goldsmith
* Deleted and Extended Scenes
* Digital HD
* Alien Illustrated Comic
* Collectible Art Cards

Beethoven's Treasure Tail on Blu-ray and DVD October 28th

Universal Home Entertainment has officially announced they will release Beethoven's Treasure Tail on Digital HD October 14, 2014 and Blu-ray or DVD October 28, 2014. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Audio will be provided by a DTS-HD Master 5.1 track. Below are the official details:





**SYNOPSIS**


Get ready to howl with laughter in this all-new family comedy starring America’s favorite St. Bernard, the one and only Beethoven! After a doggone disaster of a movie shoot, the big-hearted pooch and his trainer, Eddie (Jonathan Silverman, Beethoven’s Big Break), are heading home when they get stranded in a small coastal village. When Beethoven befriends a local boy (Bretton Manley, Ted), he helps him find a pirate map to lost treasure and together they em-bark on an adventure that brings the whole town together. Co-starring Morgan Fairchild (Flamingo Road), Kristy Swanson (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator), it’s a heartwarming “tail” about finding fun wherever your nose leads you.

Produced by Universal 1440 Entertainment, the production arm of Universal Studios Home Entertainment, Beethoven’s Treasure Taildebuts on Digital HD on October 14, 2014, and on DVD and Blu-ray™ Combo Pack with DVD, Digital HD & Ultraviolet™ on October 28, 2014.

Homeland: Season 3 Blu-ray Review

***SYNOPSIS***


As Carrie (Emmy® winner Claire Danes) and Saul (Emmy® winner Mandy Patinkin) search for the truth behind the bombing of CIA headquarters, lines are blurred between friend and foe and no one can be trusted. While hiding a stunning secret of her own, Carrie helps recruit Brody (Emmy® winner Damian Lewis) for a dangerous mission that could offer him a chance at redemption. But when the plan unravels and Brody is targeted deep inside Iran, he must put his life in Carrie’s hands, leading to one of the most suspenseful and shocking season finales in TV history.





***SERIES REVIEW***


Homeland garnered rave reviews and an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series and followed that up with a solid season two. The show in it's third season falters a little but with some out there moments but it still remains one of the overall best shows of the past year. There are numerous events that take place that I can't speak on without spoiling and would prefer not to do that for those who've yet to watch the season from start to finish. Sal is the rock of the show and Mandy Patinkin gives another string of stellar performances. Claire Danes still surprises as Carrie. Brody has a lot of ups and downs and gives some good and bad material for Damian Lewis to chew on. I recommend continuing your Homeland collection. 8/10


***VIDEO QUALITY***


Homeland Season 3 arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the original aspect ratio 1.78:1 - Colors are well balanced and the palette has a natural quality to it. There are some scenes that feature a more stylized look and the colors reflect that perfectly. Black levels were solid. Image clarity is quite striking with fine details in closeups and character wardrobes. No compression artifacts or DNR noticed. Overall Homeland comes home in fine style. 9/10


***AUDIO QUALITY***

Audio is provided by a DTS -HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - Dialogue is crisp and always intelligible even when heavier accented character's speak. LFE performance is impressive and precise when the show ratchets up the tension. Surrounds effects are blended seamlessly into the mix to create a nice sense of environment. No anomalies were heard.9/10


***SPECIAL FEATURES***


* Homeland Season Three: The Tower of David (HD, 7min33sec) – A look at the show filming on location.

* The Last Days: Filming the Season Finale (HD, 13min) - An interesting look at the season as a whole. I would recommend not watching this until completing the season first.

* Audio Commentary on Season Finale Episode “The Star” - Participants include Alex Gansa, Joe Hobek and Damian Lewis

* Deleted Scenes (HD, 14min)

TCM Greatest Classic Films: Legends DVD Box Sets for December

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has officially announced they will release new box sets featuring the films Cary Grant, Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton and Humphrey Bogart & Lauren Bacall with the TCM Greatest Classic Films: Legends series. The three different sets will be released on December 2, 2014. Below are the official details:









Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc. (WBHE) and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) are adding three new collections to their TCM Greatest Classic Films: Legends line, which spotlights Hollywood’s greatest legends. Available December 2, the newest additions are Cary Grant Vol. 2, Taylor & Burton and Bogie & Bacall. Each collection features four classic films and is affordably priced at $27.92 SRP.

To build further momentum for these titles, WBHE has set the street date for the collections to coincide with the airing of one film from each collection on TCM. Additional promotional support will include on-air promotional spots on TCM and print advertising in TCM's Now Playing guide.


ABOUT THE COLLECTIONS

TCM GREATEST CLASSIC FILMS: LEGENDS – CARY GRANT VOLUME 2

SYLVIA SCARLETT (1935) - Katharine Hepburn is Sylvia Scarlett, a woman who disguises herself as a man to evade the law. Cary Grant is jewel smuggler Jimmy Monkley, a competing young grifter. The two find themselves cooperating on a heist...and caught in a web of romantic entanglements.

GUNGA DIN (1939) - Grant, Victor McLaglen and Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. star as cheeky British soldiers armed with battlefield gallantry as they combat a murderous sect in colonial India. Director George Stevens orchestrates teeming battles and boisterous humor from a screenplay by Joel Sayre and Fred Guiol.

DESTINATION TOKYO (1943) - Grant plays the captain of a submarine making its battle-strewn way from San Francisco to the Aleutians and into the enemy’s front yard. Delmer Daves (who co-wrote with Albert Maltz) directs, while John Garfield leads an array of costars playing boys-next-door gone to war.

ARSENIC AND OLD LACE (1944) - Frank Capra breezily directs this classic farce written by Julius J. and Philip G. Epstein based on the Broadway hit. A frazzled drama critic’s two maiden aunts put a secret ingredient in their wine – and the result is howlingly hilarious, with Grant at his comic best.


TCM GREATEST CLASSIC FILMS: LEGENDS – TAYLOR & BURTON

THE V.I.P.s (1963) - Fog rolls in, grounding air traffic. Over the next fateful night, elite passengers awaiting London-to-U.S. flights must face problems instead of fleeing them. Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and more deliver romantic melodrama mixed with wry comedic flourishes.

THE SANDPIPER (1965) - Rapturous Big Sur is the backdrop as a minister (Burton) is torn between his yearnings for a beautiful free spirit (Taylor) and his love for his wife (Eva Marie Saint). Directed by Vincente Minnelli from a screenplay by Dalton Trumbo and Michael Wilson.

WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? (1966) - Taylor and Burton are ideal as malevolent marrieds in first-time film director Mike Nichols’ searing film of Edward Albee’s groundbreaking play (written for the screen by Ernest Lehman). The movie won a total of five Oscars®[1] and remains a taboo-toppling landmark.

THE COMEDIANS (1967) - Romantic and political passions are set ablaze in Haiti during the brutal rule of Papa Doc Duvalier. Burton and Taylor lead a ‘who’s who’ cast of stars caught up in the strongman’s reign of terror in a story as disturbing and redeeming as mankind’s conflicted heart.


TCM GREATEST CLASSIC FILMS: LEGENDS – BOGIE & BACALL

TO HAVE AND HAVE NOT (1944) - World-weary Harry Morgan (Humphrey Bogart) changes his mind about helping the Free French when a sultry siren (19-year-old Lauren Bacall in her screen debut) comes along. Full of intrigue and racy banter, this is the thriller that brought Bogart and Bacall together.

THE BIG SLEEP (1946) - L.A. private eye Philip Marlowe (Bogart) takes on a blackmail case and trails murderers, rogues, the spoiled rich and more. Bacall costars under Howard Hawks’ brisk direction of William Faulkner, Leigh Brackett and Jules Furthman’s ace adaptation of Raymond Chandler’s novel.

DARK PASSAGE (1947) - Bogart is a prison escapee framed for murder who emerges from plastic surgery with a new face. Bacall is his lone ally, and the chemistry between the leads is undeniable. Agnes Moorehead plays a supporting role as a venomous harpy in Delmer Daves’ stylish film-noir thriller.

KEY LARGO (1948) - Outside, a hurricane swells. Inside, a sadistic mobster (Edward G. Robinson) holds a hotel owner (Bacall), her invalid father-in-law (Lionel Barrymore) and an ex-GI (Bogart) at gunpoint in this classic from director John Huston (who co-wrote the screenplay with Richard Brooks).

Sons of Anarchy Season 6 Blu-ray Review

***SYNOPSIS***


WHO SAID IT’S GOOD TO BE KING? Ride with the Sons of Anarchy, and relive the adrenaline-charged show’s most controversial and tension-filled season ever! With Clay and Tara behind bars, Jax looks to the future of both the club and his family, but can he possibly escape the bloody legacy of SAMCRO’s deadly past? As he desperately pursues his father’s vision of a more legitimate direction for the MC, Jax is met at every turn with external pressure, violence, treachery, and betrayal. Intensity builds, secrets are revealed, and the body count rises, all leading to a shocking season finale that will change everything for the Sons of Anarchy.





***SERIES REVIEW***


SAMCRO is threatened to be torn apart more than ever in the show's sixth season. Jax is pushed to the brink and finds his marriage falling to pieces but a last minute burst of hope is destroyed and shows no matter how hard they want to become legit and move their family and club out of being outlaws, it seems more than likely it just isn't meant to be. The season features two shocking and major character deaths that the show will feel the loss during the final season currently airing on FX on Tuesdays. The themes of brotherhood, family and the life of an outlaw are waht this show is best at. The action and motorcycle chase scenes remain intense and thrilling. Sons of Anarchy at this time looks to go down as one of the best modern era shows. 9/10


***VIDEO QUALITY***


Sons of Anarchy Season 6 arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the original aspect ratio 1.78:1 - The previous seasons of Sons have all earned top ratings from me and this set is no exception. Colors vary from lush greens and warm, earthy tones to bright sun drenched desert hues. Saturation is perfectly balanced. Skintones have a pleasing naturalness to them. The overall image is clear with fine details like patches and stitching on individual cuts, the grime of a prison cell and close ups all coming through crisp. Black levels were deep and exhibited pleasing shadow delineation. No compression artifacts or DNR were seen during any of the episodes. 9.5/10


***AUDIO QUALITY***

Audio is provided by a DTS -HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - Dialogue is crisp and always intelligible over the mayhem. Surrounds were used to great effect for atmosphere and bring you into the world of SAMCRO. LFE performance is deep and powerful, motorcycles bellow and howl with authority. The well chosen music gets a nice kick from the bass. 9/10



***SPECIAL FEATURES***


* Audio Commentary on Episode 1 "Straw" - Featuring Kurt Sutter, Paris Barclay, and Jimmy Smits

* Audio Commentary on Episode 13 (The Finale) "A Mother’s Work" - Featuring Kurt Sutter, Paris Barclay, Maggie Siff and Katey Sagal

* Anarchy Afterword (HD) - Each piece runs around 40 minutes or so and features cast and crew discussing specific episodes. These originally aired on FX directly after the airing of the particular episode.
- Season Premiere
- The Mad King
- Season Finale

* Character Good Byes (HD, 7min)

* Sons for Sandy (HD, 20min) - Being 10 minutes from the Jersey Shore my entire life I thought it was really something special to have NJ native Kurt Sutter come down and give back to Asbury Park and bring some of the great cast with him including his lovely wife and star of the show Katey Sagal. I was personally able to attend the event and it was nice to see some highlights from this memorable night here.

* Deleted Scenes (HD, 8min)

* Gag Reel (HD, 3min)

Sons of Anarchy Collector's Set on Blu-ray and DVD November 11th

20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has officially announced they will release a special Sons of Anarchy Collector's Set to Blu-ray and DVD on November 11, 2014. The show stars Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal and Jimmy Smits. The set will feature all six previously released seasons and a special slot for the seventh and final season all housed in a stunning recreation of the SAMCRO clubhouse table. Below are the official details:


***SYNOPSIS***


Arriving on Blu-ray & DVD November 11, The Collector’s Set Includes Seasons 1-6 – with a slot for the Final Season – and Comes in an Iconic Recreation of the SAMCRO Clubhouse Table

Poised to Break Viewership Records, Series Creator Kurt Sutter Promises Fans an Exclusive Series Finale Viewing Event if Ratings for Season 7 Beat Season 6

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 3, 2014) – Get ready for SAMCRO’s final ride when “Sons of Anarchy” The Collector’s Set arrives on Blu-ray™ and DVD from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on November 11, 2014. Relive every episode from the first six seasons of TV’s most intense, dramatic show. The special edition box set comes in an exquisite recreation of the iconic SAMCRO Reaper clubhouse table, perfect to serve as a centerpiece in any true fan’s home.

The Sons of Anarchy final season will premiere on FX on September 9, 2014 and arrive on Blu-ray™ and DVD in early 2015. If ratings in the key demo of 18-49 year-olds eclipse last season’s numbers, Kurt Sutter promises to host a once-in-a-lifetime viewing party for the series finale. Scheduled for December 9, VIP fans at the exclusive event will have the opportunity to meet the cast and crew behind the epic series and participate in a taping of “Anarchy Afterword.”

“Sons of Anarchy” is an adrenalized drama with darkly comedic undertones that explores a notorious outlaw motorcycle club’s (MC) desire to protect its livelihood while ensuring that their simple, sheltered town of Charming, California remains exactly that, charming. The MC must confront threats from drug dealers, corporate developers, and overzealous law officers. Behind the MC’s familial lifestyle and legally thriving automotive shop is a ruthless and illegal arms business driven by the seduction of money, power, and blood.

In Season Six, Jackson ‘Jax’ Teller (Charlie Hunnam) has finally solidified his leadership of Sons of Anarchy by murdering Clay Morrow, his stepfather, for past sins. Season Six ends with his formidable mother, Gemma, committing an unpardonable sin. Unbeknownst to Jax, she brutally murders his wife, Dr. Tara Knowles, thinking she’s protecting the club. Juice Ortiz kills Sheriff Eli Roosevelt to protect Gemma. Season Seven begins ten days later with Jax in jail on a parole violation, grappling with the loss of the woman he loved. With the club’s full support, he sets in motion the brutal machinations that will lead to complete and merciless retribution.

“Sons of Anarchy” The Collector’s Set Blu-ray™ and DVD is the perfect gift for anyone who wants to bring home the ultimate showpiece for the FX hit series!

Fans to Create Arrested Development Season Four DVD Cover Art

Fox Home Entertainment will be releasing Arrested Development Season Four on DVD this Winter. Fans are encouraged to help create the cover art for set. Below are the official details:






“Hey, brother.” Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has teamed up with series creator Mitch Hurwitz to find the ultimate “Arrested Development” fan to create the cover art for the Season Four DVD Boxed Set! To enter the contest and see all the rules, go to the official “Arrested Development” Fan Art Tumblr page at ArrestedFanArt.com. Simply follow the instructions to upload your original artwork to the Tumblr page and you will see your artwork become part of the online gallery of entries into the contest. Mitch Hurwitz will select one lucky winner to have his or her artwork become the cover of the Season Four DVD and receive a $1,000 prize. All entries must be received by September 16, and just remember, even if you don’t win there’s always money in the banana stand!

Welcome to Season Four of the Emmy®-winning series* about the ethically questionable but unquestionably hilarious Bluth family. This season, when Michael asks Gob to help fill the vacant Sudden Valley housing development, the isolated location becomes a selling point to sex offenders, including…Tobias? After Buster’s testimony helps land Lucille in “prison,” her solution to hostile inmates is to build a great wall on the U.S.-Mexico border, where Oscar and George Sr. have a scam going. Lindsay seeks spirituality, Maeby likes high school too much and George-Michael has a very unlikely rival in “Arrested Development’s” funniest season yet!

The Walking Dead: Season 5 Premiere Trailer "Never Let Your Guard Down"

AMC will be premiering The Waling Dead: Season 5 on October 12, 2014. Here is an all new trailer entitled "Never Let Your Guard Down". This looks to be the most intense beginning to a new season ever for the series.