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'Wreck-It Ralph' Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D Dated and Detailed[teaser]The Golden Globe nominee for Best Animated Feature Film arrives on Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D in March. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Disney/Buena Vista is preparing 'Wreck-It Ralph' Blu-ray/DVD combo pack and 'Wreck-It Ralph - 3D' Blu-ray 3D/Blu-ray/DVD combo pack for March 5. From Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Wreck-It Ralph” takes viewers on a hilarious journey. For decades, Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) has played the bad guy in his popular video game. In a bold move, he embarks on an action-packed adventure and sets out to prove to everyone that he is a true hero with a big heart. As he explores exciting new worlds, he teams up withsome unlikely new friends including feisty misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman). The film is directed by Emmy®-winner Rich Moore. Featuring an all-star voice cast including Jack McBrayer as the voice of Fix It Felix, Jr. and Jane Lynch as the voice of Sgt. Calhoun, plus breakthrough bonus features that take viewers even deeper into the world of video games, Disney’s “Wreck-It Ralph” has something for every player. The releases will feature 1080p video, DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtracks, and supplements will include: Disney Intermission: The Gamer's Guide to Wreck-It Ralph - When the film is paused, host Chris Hardwick appears on screen to guide viewers through a series of 10 video segments offering an inside look at the many video game references, Disney references and other hidden surprises featured in the film; Bit by Bit: Creating the Worlds of Wreck-It Ralph – Fans of the film will get a look at five new worlds created for the film. The short takes viewers into Game Central Station with the artists who brought Sugar Rush, Hero's Duty and Fix It Felix Jr. to life; Deleted & Alternate Scenes – Four separate scenes are highlighted with an introduction and optional audio commentary from director Rich Moore; Video Game Commercials – Viewers can check out the commercials created for the video games featured in the film - Fix It Felix Jr., Sugar Rush, Hero's Duty and Fix It Felix Hammer; Paperman – This animated short film played in theaters before Wreck-It Ralph and tells the story of a young man in an office who sees the girl of his dreams in a skyscraper window across the street. But how can he get her attention? Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is set at $39.99 and the Blu-ray 3D is $49.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Wreck-It Ralph' and 'Wreck-It Ralph - 3D' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they're both indexed under March 5.Posted Fri Jan 4, 2013 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
'Mimesis' Blu-ray Announced and Detailed[teaser]The independent horror film from director/co-writer Douglas Schulze is planned for Blu-ray in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Starz/Anchor Bay is working on 'Mimesis' for Blu-ray on February 12. A group of horror fans find themselves unwilling participants in a nightmarish role playing game that pays homage to a classic horror film. Seven complete strangers whose only common link is a love for classic era horror films are invited to attend an exclusive 'horror fan' party at a remote farm. But as the sun sets, these strangers soon find themselves living a real life version of the cult horror classic, Night of the Living Dead. The strangers all bare a striking resemblance to the cast members from the Romero classic and waiting just outside the boarded up farmhouses, a group of demented sociopaths eager to 'mimic' the flesh eating zombies. Why watch a horror film when you can live one? The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements will include an audio commentary with director/co-writer Douglas Schulze and co-writer Joshua Wagner. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $24.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Mimesis' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under February 12.Posted Fri Jan 4, 2013 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
'Muay Thai Warrior' Blu-ray Announced and Detailed[teaser]Director Nopporn Watin’s martial arts epic makes its Blu-ray debut in March. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Well Go USA is preparing 'Muay Thai Warrior' for Blu-ray on March 5. Betrayed and left for dead, a young Japanese samurai finds a new home in Siam and soon faces his greatest battle against the elite warriors he once regarded as brothers. Based on actual events from the 17th century's Ayutthaya period, 'Muay Thai Warrior' combines lush visuals with a cast of Olympic athletes to provide viewers some of the most stunning and realistic Muay Thai techniques ever filmed for the big screen. The cast includes Seigi Ozeki ('The Odd Couple'), Sorapong Chatree ('BKO: Bangkok Knockout,' 'Ong Bak' 2 & 3), Winai Kraibutr ('Bangkok Revenge'), and newcomers Kanokkorn Jaicheun, Thanawut Ketsaro and Buakhao Paw Pramuk. Specs and supplements have yet to be revealed, but suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $24.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Muay Thai Warrior' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under March 5.Posted Fri Jan 4, 2013 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
The Best Action Blu-rays of 2012[teaser]With the New Year dawning and the memory of 2012 growing more distant by the second, we'd like to take a look back at some of the best action Blu-rays released in 2012.[/teaser] Around the mid-point of the year, we compiled a list of the best action movies released on the format so far. Now that the year has passed us by, we can fully appraise the wealth of actioners we were able to get our hands on. Not all of them are great movies, per se, but they're all great action flicks. There's a difference right? Yes, action movies can be transcendent sometimes; however, more often than not they're pieces of pure escapism, where we get to watch expertly choreographed fight scenes and million dollar explosions. A top 10 list of action movies seems a little small for an entire year. So I'm bumping it up to a list of the top 15, plus a healthy collection of honorable mentions. (In instances where Blu-rays from the previous list end up here, I've copied and pasted what I already said about them). 15. 'Prometheus' Like many viewers, I had no love for the actual movie. Ridley Scott's kinda-sorta prequel to 'Alien' was full of so many holes that it was became tiresome trying to pick them all out. This one makes the list simply because of its luscious visuals, stunning audio, and some of 2012's greatest 3D. Man this is one of the best demo discs of 2012 all around. 14. 'The Bourne Legacy' I didn't like the fourth 'Bourne' movie all that much. It felt too flat, especially with its anemic "will we or won't we have a sequel" ending. I did, nevertheless, have to include it on my list. Why? Well, because when one is ranking Blu-rays, the movie is only part of the equation, and it's certainly the most subjective aspect of a release. The reason 'Legacy' snuck onto the list was because of its solid visuals and its stunning demo-quality DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 sound. That surround mix is one of the great Blu-ray audio experiences of 2012. 13. 'The Expendables 2' Another movie that I wasn't really fond of, but man if this isn't the best demo-quality audio of the year I don't know what is. Lionsgate knows how to amp it up! There is some extraordinary sound packed into this movie. If the film was better it would move up in the rankings, but it deserves to be on the list simply because of the Blu-ray's power-packed audio. 12. 'Battle Royale' With all the talk of 'The Hunger Games' this year, it was kind of easy to forget about the lesser known Japanese movie 'Battle Royale,' in which a group of school kids is sent to a 'Hunger Games'-esque place where they must kill each other in order to be the last person standing. What was great about this release was the fact that fans got both the theatrical and extended cuts of the movie, both of which received five-star ratings. The collection wavered a little on video presentation, but other than that, this set provided a fantastic, action-filled display of as much gore as you can possibly imagine. 11. 'Lethal Weapon Collection' It's the quintessential buddy-cop franchise, and it finally found its way to Blu-ray in May. All four films were included. Sure the quality of the movies sort of went down as the franchise wore on, but the first two films are downright classics when it comes to prototypical 80s action awesomeness, and part 4 has its moments. 10. 'Drive' Some would argue that 'Drive' really isn't an action movie. While it may have more of an art house feel to it, there are still some stark, vicious bouts of action in the movie that make it so much fun to watch. The key to the brief but brutal action scenes is the way the movie ratchets up the suspense before the violence. It may not be filled with explosions and wall-to-wall gun battles, but its subtle action scenes are just as effective as some of cinema's best shootouts. 9. 'The Dark Knight Rises' "Dey-shey bah-sur-rah! Dey-shey bah-sur-rah!" (I think that's how it goes) I just watched my newly procured 'DKR' Blu-ray the other night, and I can tell you that the chant that the prisoners bellow when someone is trying to scale the wall shook my living room. The audio track on this Blu-ray is something else. Everything from the booming score to the bass-laden explosions made this one of the best audio experiences I had with a Blu-ray in 2012. 8. 'Bond 50' It was only a matter of time until this set got the go ahead. Now, it can be argued that many 'Bond' films aren't necessarily "action" movies, they may contain a few outlandish stunts here and there, but they didn't really become action films until Pierce Brosnan picked up the PPK... and the machine gun, then Daniel Craig morphed Bond into a better dressed version of Jason Bourne. Still, having this set, with each and every 'Bond' film in one place, is something every action movie fan has dreamed of. It's simply a must own. 7. 'Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol' I really wish there was a way to recreate the feeling I had in IMAX when I first saw 'Ghost Protocol'. When that camera panned out over the ledge of the Burj Khalifa as Tom Cruise began to scale the outside windows I literally felt a bout of vertigo in the theater. At home, not so much. It's a good thing that the rest of the movie has such wonderfully staged action scenes. The action in the movie is never hampered by incessant shaky-cam or incomprehensible editing. Even though I didn't have the sheer feeling of vertigo I experienced in the theater, there's still plenty of action and suspense to keep anyone interested in the story. 6. 'The Avengers' Joss Whedon nailed it, right? I mean he was able to fit all of those characters into one movie without any of them seeming like they were shortchanged on screen time. That and he made the entire movie an exciting ride full of enough geekery to satisfy even the most ardent comic book fanboys. Its huge budget also led to outstanding visual effects that shine in HD. Finally, there's that familiar Disney attention to detail. Was it any surprise they produced a Blu-ray that can only be described as perfection? 5. 'The Raid: Redemption' In terms of pure action, it doesn't get any better than 'The Raid.' This is one of the craziest action movies ever. When I first saw it I wondered how in the world no one died while filming it. Truthfully, I think it's the best action movie of 2012. Is it the best Blu-ray though? Nah. The visuals felt a little too murky for my taste, even if the look was intentional. Still, the number four spot is nothing to sneeze at. This is a fantastically fun movie from start to finish. 4. 'Haywire' Man I love this movie. I can't say enough good things about the absolutely brutal action scenes. Go through and watch the special features and you'll see huge stars like Michael Fassbender actually taking punches and being kicked through glass windows. 'Haywire' goes straight for the jugular. It's almost hard to watch some of the scenes because it looks as if they're really beating the crap out of each other. The way Steven Soderbergh films action scenes is something to behold, it really is. These actors are actually taking a physical beating instead of faking it. I can't get enough of 'Haywire.' 3. 'Dredd' Technically, this isn't a 2012 release, but we were able to review it early, plus, this was such a pleasant surprise that we're willing to overlook the fact that it's hitting Blu-ray one week into 2013. Thanks to Stallone and Rob Schneider, it stunk of the Hollywood remake machine, but that just goes to show you, preconceived notions can be deceiving. High-Def Digest reviewer Daniel Hirshleifer gave it an absolutely glowing review. Five stars! The audio and video were following closely behind with near demo-quality all around. Its balls-to-the-wall action is only matched by 'The Raid'. This is one of the best Blu-rays of the year. 2. 'Indiana Jones: The Complete Adventures' I can tell you that this collection was one of my most anticipated releases. The original 'Indiana Jones' trilogy finally on Blu-ray? Yes please! When all was said and done, High-Def Digest gave it a 5-star score overall. That's as good as it gets folks. Watching Indy hopscotch around the globe retrieving artifacts, battling badguys, and arguing with his dad has never looked and sounded so spectacular. This is one of my favorite Blu-ray sets ever. 1. 'Looper' This came close to being my favorite movie of the year (it just barely lost out to 'Zero Dark Thirty'). 'Looper' is in a class all its own. It's the smartest sci-fi movie since 'Minority Report.' In a world of adaptions, sequels, and remakes, this was one of the very few truly original movies of 2012. Writer/Director Rian Johnson expertly crafted his own future, where time travel isn't just possible, it's used by the mob for assassinations. On top of all that, this is an absolutely killer Blu-ray. Sony delivers another near perfect transfer, along with a room thumping DTS-HD 5.1 audio mix. I cannot recommend this movie enough! Honorable mentions go to 'The Grey,' 'The Amazing Spider-Man,' 'Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,' 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,' 'I, Robot - 3D',' the original 'Red Dawn,' 'Get the Gringo,' 'Safe House,' 'Chronicle,' and 'Redline.' What were your favorite action Blu-rays of 2012? We'd love to hear how you'd rank them. Click on the link below, head on over to our forum, and let us know.Posted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 10:35 AM PST by: -
The Rialto 400 is AudioControl's New Amp and DAC Combo[teaser]The compact amp provides 100 watts each to two channels and cleans up your audio while it's there. [/teaser] There's a fine line between legitimate audio needs and excess and the Rialto 400 walks it. AudioControl's new amp and DAC combo is made specifically to clean up the audio from your streaming audio and MP3s, which tend to lack in the quality department. The Rialto 400 sports AccuBASS circuitry, which is designed to restore bass to digital files that would otherwise find themselves lacking. It pumps out 100 watts per channel to two channels and utilizes a Wolfson DAC that's made to upgrade your audio, even if it's coming from a higher end streaming device. AudioControl's new amp measures 8.5 inches wide and 2.9 inches tall, so it's a bit larger than anything you'd want on your desktop, but could find a nice home on a bookshelf or in your home theater system. You'll be able to pick it up in February for the price of $799. Source: Electronic HousePosted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 10:30 AM PST by: -
'Zulu Dawn' Blu-ray Release Date Changed[teaser]Douglas Hickox's 1979 epic won't be leading the charge to Blu-ray until February. [/teaser] As previously reported, Severin was preparing 'Zulu Dawn' for Blu-ray on January 8, but now the new date looks to be February 12. Burt Lancaster, Peter O'Toole, Simon Ward, Bob Hoskins, and Sir John Mills lead an all-star cast in the shocking true story of The Battle of Isandhlwana: In January 1879, arrogant officials of the British colony of Natal, Africa issued a list of unauthorized ultimatums to the Zulu Nation. When the Zulu King refused their demands, the Empire declared war. In a series of grave tactical blunders, a garrison of 1,500 British soldiers faced an army of 25,000 enraged Zulu warriors in what would become the most horrifying disaster in British military history. Nigel Davenport ('Chariots of Fire'), Denholm Elliott ('Raiders of the Lost Ark'), Phil Daniels ('Quadrophenia') and 13,000 actual Zulus co-star in this acclaimed prequel to the classic 'Zulu,' now packed with exclusive bonus features, fully restored to its correct aspect ratio, and re-mastered in stunning HD for the first time ever in America. . Specs have yet to be revealed, but the Blu-ray/DVD combo pack will include: The History Of The Zulu Wars - Exclusive New Featurette With Zulu Rising Author Ian Knight And Historical Advisor Midge Carter; Recreating The War - Exclusive New Interview With Historical Advisor Midge Carter; and Theatrical Trailer. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $29.95. You can find the latest specs for 'Zulu Dawn' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's now indexed under February 12.Posted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
LG's 55 Inch OLED TV is Up for Preorder in Korea – Shipments Start in February[teaser]The company says that other markets and pricing information will be revealed in the next few weeks. [/teaser] The folks at LG have officially begun selling their 55 inch OLED set at a price that's equal to right around $10,000. Over 1,400 stores in Korea will be accepting orders, though there's no word on just how many they're planning to sell. Shipments will start in early February. LG says that we'll be finding out what other markets will be getting the OLED set soon. It seems natural that the US would be on the list, but the price is still up in the air. Often when products come to the US after an initial run in their home country, the price will go down. LG president Havis Kwon makes some pretty big statements on the subject. "Not since color TV was first introduced 60 years ago has there been a more transformational moment," he says. "When high-definition TV was first introduced 15 years ago, the public’s reaction was ‘Wow!’ but when customers see our razor-thin OLED TV for the first time, they’re left speechless. That’s a clear indicator as any that OLED TV is much more than just an incremental improvement to current television technology." Source: TWICEPosted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 09:00 AM PST by: -
Samsung is Bringing the Smart TV Evolution Kit to CES 2013[teaser]The kit will upgrade your 2012 Smart TV with the capabilities of Samsung's newer sets. [/teaser] When it comes to picture quality, TVs don't change too significantly year to year. There are improvements of course, but nothing on the scale that an upgrade is essential. Smart TVs though, have been improving by leaps and bounds. If you bought a set in 2011, it might not even be compatible with some of the apps that are out now. Samsung is endeavoring to help by doing something we're most used to seeing from high-end home theater makers. They're offering upgrades. You'll be able to buy the Evolution Kit from Samsung to kick up your TV to the current standard both in terms of hardware and software. "By simply attaching the Evolution Kit device into the back of a Samsung Smart TV, consumers can enjoy the latest features that the 2013 Smart TVs have to offer," says Samsung in their press release. And that's not all. "In addition, Samsung's Smart Interaction features such as voice control and motion control will be enhanced." Samsung hasn't said anything about the cost yet, but we'll certainly be paying attention when they reveal more information at CES. Source: EngadgetPosted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 07:00 AM PST by: -
Poll: Do You Use Smart TV Internet Features?Recent studies have confirmed what most of us already knew: Consumers have simply not embraced the use of internet features in their HDTVs, despite the fact that manufacturers keep adding them. Do you stream video or surf the web through your TV? If so or if not, tell us why in today's blog poll.Posted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 07:00 AM PST by: -
'Skyfall' Blu-ray in February?[teaser]The Blu-ray release date for the latest James Bond film could be in February instead of March! [/teaser] As previously reported, it was rumored that MGM was preparing 'Skyfall' for Blu-ray release on March 12, but as tends to happen with rumors, new reports are now swirling, and the latest word of mouth suggests the release date could be a few weeks earlier on February 18. The third outing for Daniel Craig as secret agent 007 co-stars Javier Bardem, with Judi Dench once again returning as M. The movie is directed by Sam Mendes. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements will likely include: Commentary by Director Sam Mendes; Commentary by Producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson and Production Designer Dennis Gassner; Behind the Scenes Intro - 2:21; Opening Sequence – The Death of Bond 4:15; Title Sequence – Working The Titles 2:57; 007 – The return of James Bond 3:46; Q- Back to Basics 1:54; DB5 – Behind the wheel 1:33; Women – The Good, The Bad and the Beautiful 4:22; Villains – In The Shadows 7:00; Locations – License To Travel 3:23; Music – The Sound of Bond 3:38; The End sequence – The Beginning of the End 13:57; M – Changes 4:42; The Future - New Beginnings 2:10; Skyfall Premiere 5:00; and Soundtrack Promotional Spot 0:29. The preliminary artwork has been posted on Amazon (note that it still might change on the final product): Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Skyfall' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's tentatively indexed under February 18.Posted Thu Jan 3, 2013 at 06:00 AM PST by:
