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Curtis Harrington's 'What's the Matter with Helen?' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The 1971 thriller starring Debbie Reynolds and Shelley Winters is planned for Blu-ray in March. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Scream Factory has revealed 'What's the Matter with Helen?' will hit on Blu-ray on March 28. Debbie Reynolds and Shelley Winters star in this stylish shocker set in 1930s Hollywood about two women who come to Tinseltown to start an idyllic new life and end up in a terrifying nightmare. Directed by Curtis Harrington (Queen Of Blood, Games), this relentlessly frightening film also stars Dennis Weaver (McCloud), Agnes Moorehead (Bewitched, Dear Dead Delilah) and Yvette Vickers (Attack of the Giant Leeches, Attack of the 50ft Woman). No other details have been revealed at this time. You can find the latest specs for 'What's the Matter with Helen?' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under March 28.Posted Mon Dec 12, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
'The Accountant' Blu-ray & Ultra HD Blu-ray Detailed[teaser]The action flick starring Ben Affleck coming to Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray in January has now been fully detailed.[/teaser] As previously reported, Warner Bros. is preparing 'The Accountant' for Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray on January 10. Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) is a math savant with more affinity for numbers than people. Behind the cover of a small-town CPA office, he works as a freelance accountant for some of the world's most dangerous criminal organizations. With the Treasury Department's Crime Enforcement Division, run by Ray King (J.K. Simmons), starting to close in, Christian takes on a legitimate client: a state-of-the-art robotics company where an accounting clerk (Anna Kendrick) has discovered a discrepancy involving millions of dollars. But as Christian uncooks the books and gets closer to the truth, it is the body count that starts to rise. The releases will feature lossless 7.1 soundtracks and supplements include: Inside the Man; Behavioral Science; and The Accountant in Action. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $35.99. Suggested list price for the Ultra HD Blu-ray is 44.95. You can find the latest specs for 'The Accountant' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule and our Ultra HD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under January 10. Order the Ultra HD Blu-ray Order the Blu-rayPosted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
'Life on the Line' Blu-ray Announced and Detailed[teaser]The action film starring John Travolta, Sharon Stone and Kate Bosworth is planned for Blu-ray in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate is working on 'Life on the Line' for Blu-ray on February 7. As a huge electrical storm sweeps towards Texas, lineman Beau (John Travolta) is haunted by memories of his brother's death by lightning years earlier. Bailey (Kate Bosworth), the niece he helped raise, has a secret she needs to share with her boyfriend Duncan. But he and Beau's brave team are racing to replace miles of power cables before the tempest strikes. Also starring Sharon Stone, Life on the Line is a tribute to the heroes who risk it all to keep us safe. The Blu-ray will feature a 1080p transfer, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: "Life on the Line" Music Video by Fiona Culley featuring Darius Rucker and Behind the Scenes with Cast/Crew Interviews. You can find the latest specs for 'Life on the Line' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under February 7. Order the Blu-rayPosted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Lars Kraume's 'The People vs. Fritz Bauer' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The acclaimed drama is planned for Blu-ray this January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Cohen Media Group is working on 'The People vs. Fritz Bauer' for Blu-ray on January 10. Germany, 1957. Attorney General Fritz Bauer receives crucial evidence on the whereabouts of SS-Obersturmbannführer Adolf Eichmann. The lieutenant colonel, responsible for the mass deportation of the Jews, is allegedly hiding in Buenos Aires. Bauer, himself Jewish, has been trying to take crimes from the Third Reich to court ever since his return from Danish exile. However, with no success so far due to the fierce German determination to repress its sinister past. Because of his distrust in the German justice system, Fritz Bauer contacts the Israeli secret service Mossad, and, by doing so, commits treason. Bauer is not seeking revenge for the Holocaust -- he is concerned with the German future. The release will feature 1080p video, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: Original Theatrical Trailer; The Making of The People vs. Fritz Bauer - Featurette; and Five Deleted Scenes. You can find the latest specs for 'The People vs. Fritz Bauer' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 10. Order the Blu-rayPosted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
John English and William Witney's 'Adventures of Captain Marvel' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The 1941 serial adventures will be getting the Blu-ray treatment next year. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Kino says 'Adventures of Captain Marvel' will arrive on Blu-ray next year. Considered by many to be the finest serial ever made, Adventures of Captain Marvel chronicles the exploits of "The World's Mightiest Mortal" as he combats the Scorpion, a hooded villain intent on obtaining six optical lenses that turn ordinary stones into gold! Highlighting the serial were the fabulous flying sequences by Republic's ace special effects team, Howard and Theodore Lydecker. Combining a wired dummy photographed against real backgrounds in natural sunlight, with spectacular take-off leaps and landings supplied by action ace, David Sharpe, the final effects are still as fascinating today as they were in 1941. Adventures of Captain Marvel marked the very first time a comic book superhero's exploits were transferred to the silver screen, and the resulting 12 chapters have yet to be equaled in excitement and entertainment. You can find the latest specs for 'Adventures of Captain Marvel' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under PENDING.Posted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
High-Def Digest's Holiday Movie Round-Up - Part 2: The Top 10 Modern Classics[teaser]The Golden Age of Hollywood produced a blizzard of classic Christmas fare, but the modern era - what I classify as films made after 1970 - has spawned some gems, too.[/teaser] A splash of irreverence is the most notable addition to this contemporary crop of holiday movies, but despite their audacity, most of these entries still embrace the season's core values - home, faith, family, and goodwill. Even the wildest comedies can turn on a dime and bring a tear to the eye, which is why these 10 modern yuletide classics always merit a spin during the lead-up to Santa's annual arrival. #10 - 'Die Hard' (1988) The holidays can be stressful, so sometimes you just need to release those pent-up aggressions. And what better way to do it than watch über-cop John McClane (Bruce Willis) take on - and take out - a band of violent European thieves who ruthlessly hijack an office Christmas party atop the sky-high Nakatomi Plaza in L.A. McClane uses his street smarts and a fair amount of ingenuity to try and outwit the gang's deliciously nasty and oh-so-suave ring leader, Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman), and their bloody game of cat and mouse remains terrifically entertaining. Yippee-ki-yay, Santa Claus! #9 - 'Scrooged' (1988) 'A Christmas Carol' has been adapted many times in many ways, but never quite like this. Director Richard Donner's modern take on Charles Dickens' age-old tale is decidedly edgy and a bit mean-spirited, but dark humor and Bill Murray's broad portrayal of a Scrooge-like TV executive who has no regard for his overworked and abused employees sets this version apart from its traditional cousins. A first-rate supporting cast that includes Karen Allen, John Forsythe, John Glover, Alfre Woodard, Bobcat Goldthwait, Carol Kane, and Robert Mitchum supplies additional cheer, as do a host of cameos by such colorful characters as Jamie Farr, Buddy Hackett, Robert Goulet, Mary Lou Retton, John Houseman, Lee Majors, and Anne Ramsey. #8 - 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation' (1989) "When Santa squeezes his fat white ass down that chimney tonight, he's gonna find the jolliest bunch of assholes this side of the nuthouse." So proclaims Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase), patriarch of the looney Griswold family, and in this third installment of the popular 'Vacation' series, they conquer Christmas with unvarnished - and often hilarious - vigor. Countless holiday traditions are lampooned, including chopping down the tree, hanging the light display, intruding relatives, and family dinners, and though the jokes don't always hit the bullseye, they come at a breathless pace. Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis, Johnny Galecki, Randy Quaid, and many others file appropriately wacky portrayals, all of which make the Griswold Christmas one to remember. #7 - 'Love Actually' (2003) Ah romance. It's sweet, messy, misguided, emotionally draining, exasperating, and euphoric, and this perky ensemble piece examines it from every angle as it spotlights an assortment of odd couplings across the pond during the holiday season. The British accents add some sophistication, but the warm feelings the film spreads are universal (although I will never forgive Alan Rickman for what he does to poor Emma Thompson!). The awkwardly charming Hugh Grant makes an unlikely British Prime Minister and Bill Nighy makes a gloriously goofy rock star, but somehow all the pieces of this bizarre puzzle end up snugly interlocking. And with a cast that includes Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley, Laura Linney, and Rowan Atkinson, among many others, this is an infectious brew indeed. #6 - 'A Christmas Carol' (1984) If you read my Top 10 List of Classic Holiday Films, you'll know my favorite adaptation of Charles Dickens' spooky yuletide novella is the 1951 British version starring Alastair Sim. And while the reputation of that venerable movie remains stellar, many viewers (and critics) cite this made-for-television film starring George C. Scott as the definitive edition. And it's easy to see why. Scott completely embraces Scrooge, adding marvelous shadings that make his portrayal unique; the script faithfully adheres to the book; location shooting in England enhances the Victorian atmosphere; and a fine supporting cast that includes David Warner and Susannah York complements Scott without overshadowing him. TV movies usually lack the gravitas of big screen productions, but the tale's intimacy works in this version's favor and helps set it apart from its theatrical cousins. #5 - 'The Santa Clause' (1994) Forget the two sugary sequels. The original film that spawned the franchise still has whimsy, spunk, and charm to spare. Tim Allen winningly portrays Scott Calvin, a divorced dad who benevolently fills in for Santa one Christmas Eve after the jolly old elf falls off his roof and vanishes. But by putting on the red furry garb and circling the Earth to distribute gifts, Scott unwittingly accepts "the Santa clause," and must assume those weighty duties forevermore. Dealing with this burden while trying to manage his young son (Eric Lloyd) and placate his ex-wife (Wendy Crewson) and her new husband (Judge Reinhold) forms the crux of this wholesome comedy, which effortlessly spreads holiday cheer. #4 - 'Elf' (2003) Holiday movies should always make you smile, and 'Elf' keeps a grin plastered on your face from beginning to end, thanks to Will Ferrell's wide-eyed, wondrous, and completely beguiling portrayal of Buddy the Elf. Accidentally whisked to the North Pole as an infant, Buddy is raised by Santa's elves (Bob Newhart is a hoot as his adopted elf dad), but as he matures, his giant size makes him an anomaly, and when he learns of his human heritage, he decides to seek out his biological father (James Caan), a grumpy, unscrupulous New York publisher who's on Santa's dreaded naughty list. Watching the naive, impressionable Buddy navigate the Big Apple's rampant cynicism and try to fit into a foreign society - and family - is loads of fun, and a touch of romance, a bit of music, and lots of Christmas warmth make this breezy comedy a perennial favorite. #3 - 'The Muppet Christmas Carol' (1992) If Mickey Mouse and Mr. Magoo can take a stab at Dickens' classic, then why not Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the lovable Muppet gang? Michael Caine makes an appropriately dour, remorseful, and ultimately giddy Scrooge (in other words, he plays it straight) in this delightful - and surprisingly faithful - hybrid adaptation, which seamlessly merges the Muppet and human worlds. Moments of requisite Muppet hilarity and several infectious songs by Paul Williams temper the emotional and inspirational story, and make this version of 'A Christmas Carol' arguably the most family-friendly of any in film history. Just ask my kids…all of whom are now in their 20s and still find time to watch this movie every year. #2 - 'A Christmas Story' (1983) Though the nostalgia of 'A Christmas Story' keeps getting further and further away from us, its depiction of family and social dynamics, incisive character portraits, and cavalcade of wacky episodes remain timeless and make this rollicking and irreverent comedy an annual must-see. Who can forget little Ralphie's dogged pursuit of his Christmas beacon, a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-Shot Range Model air rifle? Or the excruciating moment when his buddy sticks his tongue to a frozen flagpole? What about the leg lamp wearing a fishnet stocking that arrives at the Parker home, and the Christmas dinner at a Chinese restaurant? Adapted from humorist Jean Shepherd's stories and starring Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillon, and the inimitable Peter Billingsley, this 1940s-era slice of Americana hits all the right notes and reminds us Christmas is unique to every family and can be as special as we choose to make it. #1 - 'Home Alone' (1990) If you have a family and love your kids, 'Home Alone' will hit you in the heart. Sure, the sadistic slapstick episodes in which bungling burglars Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern get burned, pummeled, and tarred and feathered by their pint-sized, cute-as-a-button, and oh-so-resourceful adversary, Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), make the Road Runner's treatment of the Coyote seem humane. Yet beneath all the cartoonish hijinks lies a sweet Christmas comedy that's endearing, identifiable, and emotional. Chris Columbus' film is also laugh-out-loud funny and flaunts a heaping helping of holiday cheer, thanks to a festive setting and plenty of classic yuletide tunes. The premise - a frantic mom and dad (Catherine O'Hara and John Heard) accidentally leave their youngest child home alone as they embark on a family Christmas trip to Paris - seems outlandish, but somehow the John Hughes script makes it plausible, and the ensuing mayhem, laced with a few thoughtful messages about hope, courage, and faith, never gets old. With quotable lines, spirited performances (John Candy's cameo as a Polka band leader is terrific), and energy and warmth galore, 'Home Alone' is hands-down our favorite modern Christmas classic.Posted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 10:20 AM PST by: -
'Firestarter: Collector's Edition' Blu-ray Dated[teaser]The film has received a new 2K transfer and will be available on Blu-ray in March. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Shout Factory is preparing 'Firestarter: Collector's Edition' for Blu-ray on March 14. She has the power to set objects afire with just one glance! Firestarter, based on the unforgettable best-seller by esteemed horror author Stephen King, chronicles the extraordinary life of Charlene "Charlie" McGee. Eight-year-old Drew Barrymore stars as the child who has the amazing ability to start fires with just a glance. Can her psychic power and the love of her father save her from the threatening government agency, "The Shop," which wants to control her… or destroy her? Filled with blazing special effects and featuring an all-star cast including Martin Sheen, Heather Locklear, Art Carney, Louise Fletcher and George C. Scott, Firestarter is directed by Mark L. Lester (Class of 1999, Commando) and driven by a pulsating, thrilling score from Tangerine Dream (Legend, Sorcerer, Risky Business). No other details have been revealed at this time. You can find the latest specs for 'Firestarter: Collector's Edition' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under March 14.Posted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Rémi Chayé's 'Long Way North' Blu-ray Supplements Detailed[teaser]The bonus features for the acclaimed 2015 animated film coming to Blu-ray in January have now been revealed. [/teaser] As previously reported, Shout Factory is working on 'Long Way North' for Blu-ray on January 17. Long Way North is set in the late 19th century Saint Petersburg. Sacha, a young girl from the Russian aristocracy, dreams of the Great North and anguishes over the fate of her grandfather, Oloukine, a renowned scientist and Arctic explorer who has yet to return from his latest expedition to conquer the North Pole. Sacha has always been fascinated by the adventurous life of her grandfather and has the same calling as Oloukine to be an explorer. But Sacha's parents, who already made arrangements for her marriage, strongly disapprove the idea to say the least. Defying her destiny, Sacha flees her home and launches an adventure-filled quest toward the Great North in search of Oloukine and his ship. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: Conceptual Pilot; Behind-the-scenes featurette; Interview with director Rémi Chayé and producer Henri Magalon; Still Galleries – Character Design & Concept Art; and Animated Storyboards. You can find the latest specs for 'Long Way North' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 17. Order the Blu-rayPosted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
Patrick Durham's 'Cross Wars' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The action-fantasy starring Brian Austin Green, Vinnie Jones, and Danny Trejo arrives on Blu-ray in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Sony is working on 'Cross Wars' for Blu-ray on February 7. Straight from the comics to the mean streets of Los Angeles…armed with a powerful ancient Cross amulet, Callan (Brian Austin Green) and his team of weapons experts battle local thugs and heinous criminals. When a ruthless villain named Muerte (Danny Trejo) threatens to kill Callan’s crew, he and his team join forces with an all-girl crime-fighting squad led by Riley -- who has an ancient amulet of her own! But Muerte is not working alone. He has resurrected the evil immortal Gunnar (Vinnie Jones) who has a plan more sinister than anyone can imagine. Can Callan prevent the looming apocalypse and save humanity? It’s enough to make a superhero all stressed out. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: Commentary with Director Patrick Durham and Executive Producer Gary T. Williams; and Alternate Credits. You can find the latest specs for 'Cross Wars' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under February 7.Posted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Tim Burton's 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' Dated and Detailed for Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]All three releases will hit stores next week. [/teaser] In a rather late announcement, 20th Century Fox will bring 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' to Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on December 13. From visionary director Tim Burton, and based upon the best-selling novel, comes an unforgettable motion picture experience. When Jake discovers clues to a mystery that spans alternate realities and times, he uncovers a secret refuge known as Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. As he learns about the residents and their unusual abilities, Jake realizes that safety is an illusion, and danger lurks in the form of powerful, hidden enemies. Jake must figure out who is real, who can be trusted, and who he really is. Each release will feature a lossless 7.1 soundtrack (Dolby Atmos on the Ultra HD Blu-ray) and supplements include: The Peculiar Story – Join author Ransom Riggs and the cast & crew as they discuss how this best-selling series was brought to life; The Peculiars – Meet the cast in this behind-the-scenes piece, including 15 character pods; Hollows And Ex-Hollows – Explore the role of the Hollows, led by Barron (Samuel L. Jackson,) and the process of creating these ferocious creatures; Map Of Days – Miss Peregrine's Home & Blackpool Tower; "Wish That You Were Here" – Florence + The Machine Music Video; and Gallery – Never-Before-Seen Sketches by Tim Burton and Photographs. You can find the latest specs for 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under December 13. Order the Blu-ray Order the 3D Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Wed Dec 7, 2016 at 01:00 PM PST by:
