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Stephen King's '11.22.63' Bound for Blu-ray[teaser]The sci-fi mini-series starring James Franco is heading to Blu-ray in August. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Warner Bros. is preparing '11.22.63' for Blu-ray on August 9. Viewers hurtle deep into the unpredictable darkness of the American dream. James Franco stars as Jake Epping, a high school teacher at a loss with his life, who wants to make a difference and do something meaningful. Encouraged by his ailing friend (Chris Cooper), Jake journeys back in time to prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The story transports audiences into the world of 1960s Texas as Jake explores the multiple mysteries surrounding the alleged assassin Lee Harvey Oswald (Daniel Webber). But Jake's mission faces threats not only from Oswald, but from Sadie (Sarah Gadon), a beautiful librarian he falls in love with, and from the Past itself... which doesn't want to be changed. And if the Past doesn't want to be changed, it will push back – often violently. With something for everyone, this edge-of-your seat mystery offers an epic and emotional thrill ride. Specs have not been detailed yet, but supplements will include: When the Future Fights Back. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/Digital HD combo pack is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for '11.22.63' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under August 9. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue May 3, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
'Buster Keaton: The Shorts Collection 1917-1923' Bound for Blu-ray[teaser]32 classic shorts starring the legendary comedian are heading to Blu-ray in May. [/teaser]In an early announcement to retailers, Kino is preparing 'Buster Keaton: The Shorts Collection 1917-1923' for Blu-ray on May 24. As new generations of viewers discover the magic of silent cinema, Buster Keaton has emerged as one of the era's most admired and respected artists. Behind the deadpan expression and trademark porkpie hat was a filmmaking genius who conceived and engineered some of the most breathtaking stunts and feats of visual trickery, while never losing sight of slapstick cinema's primary objective: laughter. Produced by Lobster Films, BUSTER KEATON: THE SHORTS COLLECTION includes all 32 of Keaton's extant silent shorts (thirteen of which were produced in collaborations with comedians Roscoe Fatty Arbuckle and Al St. John). These 2K restorations were performed utilizing archival film elements from around the world, and promises to be the definitive representation of Keaton's early career. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a 2.0 stereo soundtrack, and supplements will include: 24-page booklet with detailed film notes and essay by Jeffrey Vance, author of Buster Keaton Remembered; The Blacksmith - Newly rediscovered alternate version of the 1922 comedy, containing four minutes of previously unseen material; Coney Island - alternate (politically incorrect) ending; My Wife's Relations - alternate ending; Introduction by film preservationist Serge Bromberg; and Life with Buster Keaton (1951, excerpt) - Keaton reenacts Roscoe Arbuckle's "Salomé dance", first performed in The Cook Suggested list price for the 5-Disc Blu-ray is $59.95. You can find the latest specs for 'Buster Keaton: The Shorts Collection 1917-1923' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under May 24. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue May 3, 2016 at 10:00 AM PDT by: -
'The Other Side of the Door' Blu-ray Dated & Detailed[teaser]The supernatural thriller will be unleashed on Blu-ray in June [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox is preparing 'The Other Side of the Door' for Blu-ray on June 7. In this chilling supernatural story from cowriter-director Johannes Roberts, a family’s idyllic life abroad turns to tragedy — then terror. After her young son dies in an accident, a grieving mother (Sarah Wayne Callies) learns of a ritual that will bring him back for a final goodbye. When she travels to an ancient temple to undertake the ritual, she discovers a door that serves as a portal to the afterworld. But when she ignores a warning not to open the door, the balance between life and death is upset. Now, an unspeakable horror is unleashed that threatens the lives of everyone she loves. This unpredictable film starring Jeremy Sisto delivers edge-of-your-seat thrills from start to finish. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements will include: Deleted Scenes; Behind the Door; and Gallery. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital HD combo pack is $29.99. You can find the latest specs for 'The Other Side of the Door' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue May 3, 2016 at 08:00 AM PDT by: -
Magnolia Preps 'A War' for Blu-ray in June[teaser]The critically-acclaimed, Academy Award nominated film will be getting the Blu-ray treatment in June. [/teaser] As previously reported, Magnolia has revealed that 'A War' will hit Blu-ray on June 7, and pre-orders are now live. Company commander Claus M. Pedersen (Pilou Asbæk) and his men are stationed in an Afghan province. Meanwhile back in Denmark Claus' wife Maria (Tuva Novotny) is trying to hold everyday life together with a husband at war and three children missing their father. During a routine mission, the soldiers are caught in heavy crossfire and in order to save his men, Claus makes a decision that has grave consequences for him - and his family back home. In his Academy Award Nominated film, A War, director Tobias Lindholm employs those who have been closest to the conflict, using Danish soldiers and Taliban warriors, relatives and refugees, as he strives towards realism. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: Interview with Writer/Director Tobias Lindholm and Colonel Arnold Strong; Los Angeles Film Screening Reactions; and Theatrical Trailer. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $29.98 You can find the latest specs for 'A War' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue May 3, 2016 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
High-Def Digest's Essential Picks: April 2016Every month, dozens of Blu-rays hit shelves, littering stores with High-Def temptation. New releases, catalog titles, complete TV seasons, and elaborate box-sets all vie for attention, and with so many worthy releases targeting our wallets, choosing which discs to spend our hard earned cash on can be rather tricky. To make things a little easier, we here at High-Def Digest thought it might be helpful to bring you our top three must own recommendations for the month. From important classics to contemporary blockbusters, these are the discs that we consider to be the absolute cream of the crop. High quality releases with great video, audio, and supplements, these are the Blu-rays that are truly worth every penny. Last month we spotlighted an awkwardly heartfelt coming-of-age series, an Italian Neorealist masterpiece, and an epic show fueled by ice and fire. Be sure to check out the Essential Picks for November 2012, December 2012, January 2013,February 2013, March 2013, April 2013, May 2013, June 2013, July 2013, August 2013, September 2013, October 2013, November 2013, December 2013, January 2014, February 2014, March 2014, April 2014, May 2014, June 2014, July 2014, August 2014, September 2014, October 2014, November 2014,December 2014, January 2015, February 2015, March 2015, April 2015, May 2015, June 2015, July 2015, August 2015, September 2015, October 2015, November 2015, December 2015, January 2016, February 2016, and March 2016. [teaser]For April, we're covering a galaxy far, far away, a very angry bear, and a daft old man who stole a magic box.[/teaser] Please be aware, that if you haven't already seen them, there are some MAJOR SPOILERS for the discs listed. If you only buy three titles that hit Blu-ray in April, here's what we suggest you pick up, starting with the most essential... 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' - The first time I ever saw 'Star Wars: A New Hope' was on a VHS copy that my Dad had recorded off of the TV complete with commercials. The quality was terrible, pieces were probably cut out for time, and I think snippets of an old episode of 'Dallas' that had been taped over randomly popped up every now… and yet, the experience was still magical. I mean, how could it not be? I was a kid, and it was 'Star Wars!' But I'm not a kid anymore, and trying to recreate the magic of one's childhood as an adult is essentially a fool's errand. Thankfully, J.J. Abrams is apparently a very skilled fool. Using the original trilogy as his template, the director transports us back to a galaxy far, far away -- complete with old and new characters. Seeing Harrison Ford as Han Solo again (on the Millennium Falcon with Chewbacca!) is almost too cool for words -- but really, that was to be expected. The legendary movie star actually turns in one of his most spirited performances in years, but Ford could have just winked at the camera and called it a day, and I still think that I would have been satisfied. What's really pleasantly surprising, however, is just how captivating the new heroes and villains are. Finn and Rey offer an exuberant burst of energy while Kylo Ren proves to be an effectively menacing yet unconventionally awkward antagonist. Sure, not everything is perfect. The plot is a bit too reminiscent of what came before and some of the dialogue is actually quite stilted and too expository (the scene between Han and Leia where they discuss their son is just plain badly written), but the heart and soul of 'Star Wars' is back in full force! Pun very much intended. With 'The Force Awakens,' J.J. Abrams offers the first great 'Star Wars' movie of the 21st Century… and there isn't a single Gungan in sight! With a demo worthy technical presentation and some solid supplements, this release gives fans a worthwhile package -- though, honestly, even a barebones disc would probably still make this list. It's 'Star Wars,' after all. This is basically the franchise that home theaters were made for. Not only April's top title, this is one of the top must own discs of the year. And it sure beats a degrading VHS. Buy the Blu-ray 'The Revenant' - A great film can leave a lasting impression, but it's rare to come across a movie that genuinely makes it feel as if you've "experienced" something. Unrelentingly visceral and expansive in its form, Alejandro G. Inarritu's 'The Revenant' is such a film. Though I never technically left my living room, by the time the credits rolled, it really felt like I had gone on a harrowing journey -- but, you know, from the comfort of my couch… and without all the claw marks. Nearly limitless in its scope, the dangerous wilderness of 'The Revenant' unfolds in all directions, and Inarritu's frequently roving, unblinking camera allows his images to extend beyond the edges of the frame -- creating a living, breathing world with new hazards constantly lurking just outside of view. The numerous long, sustained shots also work to place us directly with Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio), allowing us to experience what he experiences as it occurs on screen, letting us feel the full weight of each life-threatening incident without cuts, offering no respite from the recurring brutality. Speaking of which, the movie's much discussed (and parodied) bear attack scene truly is one of the most unrelentingly intense sequences of the year. And DiCaprio himself fully earns his Oscar with a genuinely primal performance. Dirty, shivering, and constantly clinging to life, the man becomes a visual embodiment of survival, desperately holding on to every breath he has left. And thankfully more than just an exercise in potent style, the movie actually has a rather engaging (albeit comparatively simple) plot, rife with powerful themes tied to family, betrayal, nature, and vengeance. Marked by an equally awe-struck and fearful reverence for the natural world, 'The Revenant' uses cinematic form to create a sense of dreamy reality -- one that is both palpably gritty and delicately poetic. Coupled with 5-star video and audio, and a strong behind-the-scenes doc, this Blu-ray easily earns a spot on April's list of essential titles. And for those with 4K displays, this also happens to be one of the first reference quality Ultra HD Blu-rays, making it a must own for early adopters. Buy the Blu-ray Buy the Ultra HD Blu-ray 'Doctor Who: The Complete Ninth Series' - While cast changes are commonplace across the TV landscape, very few shows replace their star performers on a regular basis -- but on 'Doctor Who,' this recurring "regeneration" is actually an essential component of the series. When the Doctor is near death, he is able to come back to life in a new body with a new face, conveniently allowing a new actor to step into the role. In season eight, we saw Peter Capaldi take the reins of the TARDIS from fan-favorite Matt Smith, but it's in season nine where the veteran thespian truly makes the Time Lord his own -- resulting in one of the show's strongest and most consistent runs in years. After a somewhat uneven eighth season with an overly cranky take on the Doctor, season nine allows Capaldi to expand his approach on the character, injecting a few fun new personality traits and quirks while fleshing out his relationship with long-time companion, Clara Oswald (Jenna Coleman), in anticipation of her character's departure from the series. Likewise, the season relies heavily on two-part episodes, giving the writers a bit more time to develop their plotlines. This leads to a very impressive string of compelling stories, with only one real clunker in the bunch (the pointlessly convoluted 'Sleep No More'). But as memorable as the entire season is, it's really episode 11, 'Heaven Sent,' that almost singlehandedly cements this release as a must own. With the Doctor trapped all alone in a bespoke torture chamber as a haunting enemy slowly hunts him down, the episode methodically builds to an utterly breathtaking twist -- finally allowing all the shades of Capaldi's Doctor to come into focus in a character defining sequence marked by striking visuals, stirring music, brilliant editing, exceptional writing, and a tour-de-force performance. A gut-wrenching encapsulation of the Doctor's never-ending determination to "win," and a rather sensitive examination of grief and mourning, the episode hits all the right beats. More than just one of the show's all-time greatest instalments, it also might be one of the best episodes of sci-fi TV... ever. "How many seconds in eternity?" It might seem like an unsolvable riddle, but 'Doctor Who: The Complete Ninth Season' offers a glimpse at the answer -- and what we see tells us everything we ever need to know about the show's title character. Clever, fun, inspiring, and even rather heartbreaking at times, these twelve episodes (plus two Christmas Specials) represent the series and its star at their best. For fans who may have been turned off by the last few seasons, this release marks a notable return to form, replacing the Doctor's once iconic bow tie with an equally cool guitar. Buy the Blu-ray So, there you have it. While there were many titles worth picking up this April, those are our top three must own recommendations. We'll be back next month with three more essential picks, but for now, what do you think of our selection? What are your choices for April's must own titles?Posted Mon May 2, 2016 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
'Eddie the Eagle' Dated for Blu-ray & Ultra HD Blu-ray![teaser]The inspirational biopic is leaping toward Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray in June. [/teaser]As previously reported, 20th Century Fox is preparing 'Eddie the Eagle' for Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray, and now the release date has been announced as June 14. Inspired by true events, Eddie the Eagle is a feel-good story about Michael "Eddie" Edwards (Taron Egerton), an unlikely but courageous British ski-jumper who never stopped believing in himself - even as an entire nation was counting him out. With the help of a rebellious and charismatic coach (played by Hugh Jackman), Eddie takes on the establishment and wins the hearts of sports fans around the world by making an improbable and historic showing at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. From producers of Kingsman: The Secret Service, Eddie the Eagle stars Taron Egerton as Eddie, the loveable underdog with a never say die attitude. Specs for the Ultra HD Blu-ray have not been announced yet, but the Blu-ray will feature 1080p video and a DTS-HD MA 7.1 soundtrack. Supplements will include: Let The Games Begin: Soaring with Eddie the Eagle Documentary and Still Gallery. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital HD combo pack is $39.99. Suggested list price for the Ultra HD Blu-ray/Blu-ray/Digital HD combo pack is also $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Eddie the Eagle' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule and our Ultra HD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 14. Order the Ultra HD Blu-ray Order the Blu-rayPosted Mon May 2, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
Ridley Scott's 'The Martian: Extended Edition' Announced for Blu-ray & Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]Matt Damon will be stranded again on Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray in June. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox is preparing 'The Martian: Extended Edition' for Blu-ray and Ultra HD Blu-ray on June 7. The new cut will feature 10 minutes of additional footage. During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Millions of miles away, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring "the Martian" home, while his crewmates concurrently plot a daring, if not impossible, rescue mission. As these stories of incredible bravery unfold, the world comes together to root for Watney's safe return. Specs haven't been revealed yet, but supplements will include: Audio Commentary by Ridley Scott (Director), Drew Goddard (Writer, Exec Producer) and Andy Weir (Author of The Martian); Deleted Scenes; The Long Way Home: Making the Martian; Dare Mighty Things: NASA's Journey to Mars; and Journey to Mars 101 Q&A. Suggested list price for the 2-Disc Blu-ray is $39.99. Suggested list price for the Ultra HD Blu-ray has not been announced yet. You can find the latest specs for 'The Martian: Extended Edition' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule and our Ultra HD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7.Posted Mon May 2, 2016 at 10:00 AM PDT by: -
Disney Dates 'Zootopia' for Blu-ray & Blu-ray 3D[teaser]The animated film will arrive on Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D in June. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Disney will be releasing 'Zootopia' on Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D on June 7. The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it's a melting pot where animals from every environment live together—a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything. But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn't so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery. Specs haven't been revealed yet, but supplements will include: Candid conversations with filmmakers and artists behind Zootopia; Alternate opening; Never-before-seen characters and deleted scenes; and A sneak peek at some of the hidden Easter Eggs that make reference to Disney Animation's most beloved films and characters. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Zootopia' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7. Order the 2D Blu-ray Order the 3D Blu-rayPosted Mon May 2, 2016 at 08:00 AM PDT by: -
Shout Factory Announces 'Quackerz' for Blu-ray 3D[teaser]The animated family film is heading to Blu-ray in June. [/teaser]In an early announcement to retailers, Shout Factory is preparing 'Quackerz' for Blu-ray on June 14. New CG-animated feature QUACKERZ is a colorful family movie, bringing to life a unique tale of unlikely heroes with action, comedy, heart and even a bit of romance! Brimming with whimsical characters, vibrant animation and high-energy fun, QUACKERZ features a flock of all-star voice cast, including Robbie Daymond (Nickelodeon’s Get Blake!), Michael Gross (Family Ties), Enn Reitel (The Adventures of Tintin), Andrea Becker (Storage Wars: New York), Alanna Ubach (Legally Blonde), Bruce Nozick (The Last Ship), Jesse Corti (Beauty and the Beast, Frozen) and Jimmie Wood (The Wild Thornberrys). When the peaceful island of the Mandarin Ducks is mistakenly invaded by the Military Mallards, a conflict flares up between the Mandarin Emperor and the Mallard Commander. Longway, the Emperor's son, and Erica, the daughter of the Mallard Commander, meet… and before long, a friendship takes wing. While their feathered fathers fight and egg each other on, the wicked Ms. Knout is con-duck-ting a scheme to destroy the sun. The kids will have to get all their ducks in a row to battle their foe… but waddle they do if her foul plan succeeds? Come journey with us through this wondrous movie adventure that is filled with wholesome values, universal appeal and laugh-out-loud fun for the family. QUACKERZ emphasizes the importance of family, friendship, teamwork, respect, and acts of generosity and kindness. Specs have not been detailed yet, but supplements will include: Behind-the-scene footage and Animatics. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/Blu-ray 3D/DVD/Digital Copy combo pack is $24.97. You can find the latest specs for 'Quackerz' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 14. Order the Blu-rayPosted Mon May 2, 2016 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
'Independence Day: 20th Anniversary Edition' Ultra HD Blu-ray Up for Pre-Order![teaser]Roland Emmerich's explosive film will be getting a 4K Blu-ray release in June. [/teaser] As previously reported, 20th Century Fox will be releasing 'Independence Day: 20th Anniversary Edition' on Blu-ray on June 7. Experience the original OSCAR®-Winning* sci-fi epic that launched a new era in blockbuster filmmaking. Director Roland Emmerich, producer Dean Devlin and an all-star cast including Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman join forces to deliver the ultimate encounter between powerful aliens and the human race. When massive spaceships appear in Earth’s skies and blast destructive beams of fire down on cities all over the planet, a determined band of survivors must unite for one last strike against the invaders before it’s the end of mankind. The release will feature both the newly restored Special Edition and original Theatrical Cuts with a DTS:X soundtrack and supplements will include: All-new 30-Minute Documentary – Independence Day: A Legacy Surging Forward (Featured on Disc Two of Blu-ray); Commentary with Director Roland Emmerich and Producer Dean Devlin; Commentary with VFX Supervisors Volker Engel and Doug Smith; and Datastream Trivia Track. Suggested list price for the Ultra HD Blu-ray is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Independence Day: 20th Anniversary Edition' linked from our Ultra HD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7. Order the Ultra HD Blu-rayPosted Fri Apr 29, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by:
