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'Sansho the Bailiff' Dated and Detailed for Blu-ray[teaser]The 1954 Japanese classic will arrive on Blu-ray in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Criterion will be bringing 'Sansho the Bailiff' to Blu-ray on February 26. Under the dazzling direction of Kenji Mizoguchi, this classic Japanese story became one of cinema’s greatest masterpieces, a monumental, empathetic expression of human resilience in the face of evil. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, an uncompressed mono soundtrack, and supplements include: Audio commentary by Japanese-literature professor Jeffrey Angles; Video interviews with critic Tadao Sato, assistant director Tokuzo Tanaka, and legendary actress Kyoko Kagawa, on the making of the film and its lasting importance; and a book featuring an essay by film writer Mark Le Fanu and two versions of the story on which the film was based: Ogai Mori's 1915 "Sansho Dayu" and a written form of an earlier oral variation. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $39.95. You can find the latest specs for 'Sansho the Bailiff' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under February 26.Posted Tue Nov 27, 2012 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
Sharp Reveals a New 90 Inch LCD[teaser]Don't get too excited though, this one's for commercial use. [/teaser] Every time televisions used for advertising gets bigger, the world gets a little more 'Blade Runner.' The latest is a 90 inch LCD from Sharp that's planned for use in malls, airports and anywhere else that will fit a monstrous LCD. The PN-R903 is made to be stood sideways, and stands six feet eight inches high, which means the people on the TV can easily be the same size as, well, people. That makes for an interesting opportunity, especially for clothing stores. It's an LCD display and is made to be incredibly bright, allowing the set to function in areas with high amounts of ambient light. The R903 is slated to ship in January at a price not yet disclosed. Source: EngadgetPosted Tue Nov 27, 2012 at 07:00 AM PST by: -
'Prison: Collector's Edition' Blu-ray Detailed[teaser]Supplement details are in for Renny Harlin's 1988 supernatural thriller starring Viggo Mortensen arriving on Blu-ray in February. [/teaser] As previously reported, Scream Factory will be releasing 'Prison: Collector's Edition' on Blu-ray on February 19. After Charles Forsythe was sent to the electric chair for a crime he didn't commit, he forever haunts the prison where he was executed. Flash forward several years when the prison is reopened under the control of its new warden, Eaton Sharpe, a former security guard who framed Charlie. When prisoners are ordered to break down the wall to the execution room, they unknowingly release the angry spirit of Charles Forsythe, a powerful being distributing his murderous rage to all, leading up to the warden himself. The Blu-ray/DVD combo pack will feature 1080p video, a English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 soundtrack, and supplements will include: Audio Commentary with Director Renny Harlin; Hard Time: The Making of Prison - An all-new retrospective with Director Renny Harlin, Producer Irwin Yablans, Screenwriter C. Courtney Joyner, Actor Tom Everett, Stunt Coordinator Kane Hodder, Special Makeup Effects Creator John Carl Buechler, Executive Producer Charles Band, Composer Richard Band, Production Designer Philip Duffin, and Production Assistant Patrick Denver; U.S. Theatrical Trailer; Poster & Still Gallery; and Original First-Draft Screenplay (PDF format). Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD combo pack is $29.93. You can find the latest specs for 'Prison: Collector's Edition' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under February 19.Posted Tue Nov 27, 2012 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
High-Def Digest's Essential Picks: November 2012by Steven Cohen Every 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 affection, 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. [teaser]If you can only buy three titles that hit Blu-ray in November, here's what we suggest you pick up, starting with the most essential...[/teaser] 'Lawrence of Arabia' - David Lean, Peter O'Toole, and a really, really big desert -- all shot on 70mm, beautifully restored, and presented in nearly pristine 1080p. What more needs to be said? While motion picture epics already existed before its release, this is the film that defined the genre. This is the film that set the standard. This is the film that went on to influence countless imitators. And this is the film that still stands high above them all. Grand, sweeping, and utterly captivating, 'Lawrence of Arabia' is a flawless exercise in cinematic splendor. Lean's images are so wide and breathtaking that they seem to extend forever, infinitely cascading beyond the edge of the frame, evoking an almost limitless scope. O'Toole's iconic performance blends pride and mortality, capturing the larger-than-life grandeur of myth, and the fragile sting of flawed humanity. Maurice Jarre's famous music soars so high, that if one listens to the score with their eyes closed, they can still see the film's boundless vistas. Filled with rich thematic texture, the movie offers a stirring character study on par with the greats of literature, and somehow manages to simultaneously push the visual boundaries of the medium. A mesmerizing fusion of tantalizing sight, rousing sound, and powerful storytelling, the film's nearly impossible ambitions are only rivaled by those of its central character -- but while Lawrence might falter at the hands of his own hubris, Lean somehow succeeds completely, revealing an almost inhuman command over epic moviemaking. Coupled with exceptional video, audio, and extras, this is the month's truly indisputable MUST OWN release, and big fans should seriously consider picking up the beautiful 4-Disc 50th Anniversary Collector's Edition that contains even more goodies. While the high-definition medium is home to many standout demo worthy discs, in many respects, this is the film that Blu-ray was made for. 'Sunset Boulevard' - During his acceptance speech for Best Picture at the 84th Academy Awards, 'The Artist' director Michel Hazanavicius made special note to thank three very important people: "I want to thank Billy Wilder, I want to thank Billy Wilder, and I want to thank Billy Wilder." While it might seem like overkill, there really is no exaggerating Wilder's immense influence on cinema, and Hazanavicius' gracious sentiments mirror those of countless filmmakers across the globe. Why is Wilder such a revered figure in the world of motion pictures? Well, to answer that question, one needs to look no further than 'Sunset Boulevard.' A scathing satire, grotesque tragedy, and suspenseful film noir all skillfully bound together, the movie is among the celebrated director's very best work -- putting it among the best the industry has to offer. After already covering the movie at length in my own review, I was initially worried that there might not be much left to talk about here. As it turns out, that isn't the case at all. You see, with films like 'Sunset Boulevard' there is an almost infinite amount of material to discuss. Why, after perusing my original critique, I now realize that I didn't even mention Eric von Stroheim's masterful turn as Norma Desmond's loyal servant, or Nancy Olson's spirited portrayal of the plucky and innocent Betty Schaefer. I also didn't address how the film's script mirrors the actual lives of several of its actors, paralleling some of Swanson and Stroheim's own experiences in rather incredible ways. And then there's Franz Waxman's powerful score which perfectly complements the escalating drama, and all of the little details that Wilder places in the background of his scenes, and the sweet but doomed love story, and the scene where Gillis and Betty take a romantic stroll through the Paramount lot, and the various, biting jabs at Hollywood, and that shot where Gillis stands behind the mansion's gate with Desmond perched up behind him, invading the frame like an ominous specter, and the… well, I could go on and on. Suffice to say, this really is a timeless classic worthy of all the praise it receives, and thankfully, this disc does the movie justice. To understand the immeasurable gratitude expressed by contemporary filmmakers toward Billy Wilder, one could really watch any number of his movies ('Some Like it Hot,' 'The Apartment'), but 'Sunset Boulevard' ranks up there with the best. As I said in my review, this is perhaps the greatest film from one of Hollywood's greatest directors, and it's presented on Blu-ray in a fantastic release, easily cementing it as one of November's essential picks. 'The Amazing Spider-Man' - To be honest, I really wasn't sure what to expect from this comic book reboot. While there are aspects of Sam Raimi's trilogy that never really clicked with me (especially in the troubling third installment), I mostly enjoyed the 'Evil Dead' director's take on the character. This left me wondering if the franchise really needed a brand new start, and unfortunately the film's initial trailers did nothing to mitigate my concerns. Though noticeably grittier, Marc Webb's effort looked like more of the same, and the strange emphasis on Peter Parker's parents and their mysterious past seemed like a very misguided attempt to set this origin story apart. Thankfully, despite a few minor missteps, the movie succeeds wonderfully, and even manages to improve upon some elements that Raimi and company never really figured out. Sure, some major beats from the 2002 film remain (this is still 'Spider-Man' after all), but the filmmakers offer a fresh enough take on the material to make it all worthwhile. Most notably, Andrew Garfield presents a more well-rounded version of Peter Parker/Spider-Man. While Maguire did a solid job with the character's nerdy, goofy, and heroic qualities, Garfield not only nails the lonely outcast aspect of the webslinger, but he also elaborates on his sarcastic side as well. You see, Peter Parker might be a shy introvert when he's not in costume, but as soon as he puts that mask on he becomes… well, kind of a jackass. In a good way, of course. Don't get me wrong, he grows into a selfless hero through and through, but he also likes to trash talk with his enemies while spitting out various quips at their expense. This was something Raimi's film's never really got right, but here the filmmakers play up the character's sarcasm gleefully. Going along with Spider-Man's more limber personality, Garfield and his stunt doubles (both living and CG) seem more agile in the costume. This makes the fight scenes and webslinging feel a little more dynamic than some of the comparatively stiff sequences from the previous trilogy. There are still some stumbles here and there (the villain's splintered psyche is a little too similar to the Green Goblin's, and a few scenes are pretty cheesy) but the casting is mostly spot on and the action is great. Despite being a retread of the character's origin story, the movie differentiates itself just enough and shows some very promising potential for future installments. The Blu-ray disc comes packed with demo worthy video and audio, as well as an extensive collection of supplements, making it one of the month's most impressive releases. Really, the only downside to the flick is that it now desperately makes me wish that this version of Spider-Man could go hang out with 'The Avengers.' Though the properties are owned by different studios, some of the producers have expressed interest in making this happen. I'm not exactly holding my breath, but anything is possible (especially when there's money to be made). Come on, Sony, look at how much fun the characters in Marvel's cinematic universe are having together. Spider-Man wants to play too! Nerdy wishful thinking aside, even all by his lonesome, the character shines, and this great disc is easily one of the month's essential picks. So, there you have it. While there are many titles worth picking up this November, 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 November's must own titles?Posted Mon Nov 26, 2012 at 02:55 PM PST by: -
'Skyfall' Blu-ray Pre-Orders Live![teaser]Looks like a Blu-ray release date has been set for March and pre-orders are now available! [/teaser] As previously reported, MGM is preparing 'Skyfall' for Blu-ray release, and rumor has it the date will be March 12. 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 preliminary artwork has been posted on Amazon (note that it still might change on the final product): Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Skyfall' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's tentatively indexed under March 12.Posted Mon Nov 26, 2012 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
'Peter Pan: Diamond Edition' Blu-ray Detailed[teaser]The 1953 animated classic hitting Blu-ray this February has now been fully detailed! [/teaser] As previously reported, Disney/Buena Vista is working on 'Peter Pan' for a Blu-ray release on February 5 as part of their Diamond Collection. The classic tale that taught us all “to believe” and first introduced us to the Darling children – Wendy, John and Michael - as they flew with Peter Pan and Tinker Bell past the second star to the right and straight on ‘till morning to the enchanted world of Never Land. Rediscover the magical adventure and relive childhood memories of this great bedtime story. The Blu-ray/DVD combo packs will feature newly restored 1080p video, a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack, and high flying bonus materials for all ages including the groundbreaking feature Disney Intermission, Growing up with Nine Old Men short film, never-before-seen Deleted Scenes and a never-before-heard Deleted Song. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD combo packs are $39.99 and the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy combo is $44.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Peter Pan: Diamond Edition' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under February 5.Posted Mon Nov 26, 2012 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
HDD Cyber Monday Deals: 'Rosemary's Baby' and 'The Game' Blu-rays $17.99 at Amazon![teaser]The Blu-ray deals continue this week at Amazon! [/teaser] Amazon is offering 'Rosemary's Baby' and 'Rosemary's Baby' for only $17.99 (55% off suggested list price). Other popular Criterion Blu-ray deals include 'Following' and 'Brazil' for $20.99. Be sure to check the complete calendar of Movie and TV bargains on Amazon's Cyber Monday Deals Week to see when your favorite shows and movies will be on sale!Posted Mon Nov 26, 2012 at 08:10 AM PST by: -
'The Ultimate Buster Keaton Collection' Blu-ray Announced[teaser]Check the Buster Keaton lover(s) off your holiday shopping list with this massive 15-disc Blu-ray box set from Kino! [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Kino Video says 'The Ultimate Buster Keaton Collection' will hit Blu-ray on December 11. This set includes 'Buster Keaton: Short Films Collection - 1920-1923,' 'The Saphead,' 'Our Hospitality,' 'Sherlock Jr.', 'Three Ages,' 'The Navigator, 'Seven Chances,' 'Go West,' 'Battling Butler,' 'The General,' 'College' (exclusive to this set until next year), 'Steamboat Bill, Jr.' and 'Lost Keaton.' Specs and supplements have yet to be revealed, but suggested list price for the Blu-ray set is $299.95. You can find the latest specs for 'The Ultimate Buster Keaton Collection' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under December 11.Posted Mon Nov 26, 2012 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
'End of Watch' Blu-ray Dated and Detailed[teaser]The gritty and adrenaline-fueled cop drama will arrest Blu-ray this January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Universal is working on 'End of Watch' for Blu-ray on January 22. Shot from the point of view of police officers, gang members, surveillance cameras, dashboard cams and citizens caught in the line of fire, 'End of Watch' uses gritty handheld footage to create a powerful story of family, friendship, honor and courage among the brave men and women protecting our city streets. Marlow Stern of Newsweek calls the film “Riveting! The best cop movie in years,” while Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times, says 'End of Watch' is “Great!” The Blu-ray/DVD/Ultraviolet Digital Copy combo will feature 1080p video, an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements will include: Feature Commentary with Writer and Director David Ayer; Fate with a Badge; In the Streets; Women on Watch; Watch Your Six; Honors; and Deleted Scenes. Suggested list price for this set will be $34.98. You can find the latest specs for 'End of Watch' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under January 22.Posted Mon Nov 26, 2012 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
HDD Black Friday Blitz: 'The Hunger Games' Blu-ray $8.99 at Amazon![teaser]Save big on the film based on Suzanne Collins' novel at Amazon! [/teaser] Amazon is offering 'The Hunger Games' starring Jennifer Lawrence for only $8.99! Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the Capitol of the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen volunteers in her younger sister's place and must rely upon her sharp instincts when she's pitted against highly trained Tributes who have prepared their entire lives. If she's ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love. Click here to let the games begin and this offer will only be available today from 8:20am to 12:20pm PST. Be sure to check the complete calendar of Movie and TV bargains on Amazon's Black Friday Deals Week to see when your favorite shows and movies will be on sale!Posted Fri Nov 23, 2012 at 08:20 AM PST by:
