February 12, 2015

Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts Blu-ray May 12th






Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has officially announced they will release the next DC animated movie Batman Unlimited: Animal Instincts to Blu-ray, Digital HD and DVD on May 12, 2015. The Blu-ray specs are set to be 1080p video in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio and a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for audio. I will update when special features are announced.





**SYNOPSIS**



Another storm is brewing in Gotham and it’s not only raining cats and dogs but evil Cyber Animals! When the city is plagued by a slew of bizarre crimes committed by the animal-inspired villain squad, known as the Animilitia – made up of Silverback, Cheetah, Killer Croc and Man-Bat – Batman must swing into action to investigate. These animalistic villains bring new and exciting challenges for the hero of Gotham, and Batman must find a way to bring these criminal creatures to a halt! But could the Animilitia be working for powerful businessman Oswald Cobblepot a.k.a. The Penguin? How does The Penguin’s new invention of robotic Cyber Animals fit into the mix? In the end, it’ll take all the combined forces of Batman, Flash, Green Arrow, Nightwing and Red Robin to fight off these Animal Instincts.


February 9, 2015

The Book of Life Blu-ray Review






**SYNOPSIS**



Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart, embarks on an adventure that spans three fantastic worlds where he must face his greatest fears.





**MOVIE REVIEW**



The Book of Life is a visual feast that will require repeat viewing to take in all the information on display. The characters are likeable though the story is nothing overly special. What makes the film a must see is the stunning animation and fun music that will put everyone that watches it in a good mood. 8.5/10


**VIDEO QUALITY**



The Book of Life arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 2.40:1 - A visually stunning movie such as this deserves a top flight transfer and it get's one that is near flawless save for some slight banding in a couple sequences. Colors pop with the every hue of the rainbow and are a treat to view. Black levels were consistently rich and deep. Overall clarity is breathtaking and details in characters is exceptional. 9.5/10


**AUDIO QUALITY**



Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. - The beautiful music is perfectly balanced in the mix. Dialogue was crisp and clear and does a fine job with the thick accents. The dynamic range helps fill the room with rich and enveloping sound. The LFE channel kicks in for tight and precise bass. No anomalies to speak of. 9/10


**SPECIAL FEATURES**



* Audio Commentary by Jorge R. Gutierrez

* The Adventures of Chuy (HD, 3min17sec) - The adorable little pig gets a cute short story.

* Closer Look At The Book of Life (HD, 10min16sec) - Guillermo Del Toro along with cast and crew discuss the film.

* The Music of Life (HD, 8min44sec) - Gustavo Santaolalla's score is featured and discussed.

* Digital Carpenters: The Art Direction of The Book of Life (HD, 11min3sec) - A nice look at the artistry and work that went into creating the beautiful animation.

* Music Machine (HD, 24min50sec) - A feature that allows you to play the music in the film individually or via play all.

* “No Matter Where You Are” Music Video by Us The Duo (HD, 3min28sec)

* Galleries
- Meet the Cast (HD, 1min3sec)
- Visual Development – Color Keys (HD, 3min28sec)
- Visual Development – Production Art (HD, 2min38sec)
- Background Poster Paintings (HD, 1min23sec)
- The Final Look (HD, 2min13sec)

* Theatrical Trailer (HD, 2min24sec)