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Bryan Bertino's 'The Monster' Blu-ray Announced[teaser]The 2016 horror creature-feature is headed for Blu-ray in January.[/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate is working on 'The Monster' for Blu-ray on January 24. Acclaimed horror filmmaker Bryan Bertino (The Strangers) wrote and directed this suspenseful and scary film, in which a divorced mother (Zoe Kazan) and her headstrong daughter must make an emergency late-night road trip to see the girl's father. As they drive through deserted country roads on a stormy night, they suddenly have a startling collision that leaves them shaken but not seriously hurt. Their car, however, is dead, and as they try in vain to get help, they come to realize they are not alone on these desolate backroads — a terrifying evil is lurking in the surrounding woods, intent on never letting them leave. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include the Eyes in the Darkness featurette. You can find the latest specs for 'The Monster' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under January 24.Posted Thu Dec 1, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
HBO & Cinemax Join Amazon Channels Streaming Lineup for Prime Members[teaser]Prime members can now subscribe to HBO and Cinemax directly through Amazon. [/teaser] Amazon has announced the addition of HBO and Cinemax streaming subscription plans to its Amazon Channels lineup. As part of the launch, Prime members can now sign up for a monthly HBO subscription for $15 per month. Likewise, users can also subscribe to a monthly Cinemax plan for $10 per month. "HBO has produced some of the most groundbreaking, beloved and award-winning shows in television history. Their selection of blockbuster movies is unsurpassed, including hits like Batman vs. Superman, The Revenant, and Deadpool. And, our customers have been asking when all that wonderful content will be available on Amazon Channels," said Michael Paull, Vice President, Digital Video, Amazon. "Prime members can now watch the latest episodes of the critically-acclaimed Westworld and Game of Thrones without the need for a cable subscription. We're thrilled to work with HBO to bring their cutting-edge content to Amazon Prime members with Amazon Channels." With HBO and Cinemax through Amazon Channels, users get full streaming access to each network's lineup of series, original films, miniseries, sports, documentaries, specials, and blockbuster movies whenever they want without a traditional cable or satellite subscription. HBO highlights include all episodes of the newest and most popular shows like 'Westworld,' 'Divorce,' 'Insecure,' 'Ballers,' and 'Game of Thrones,' along with hit movies like 'Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice,' 'The Revenant,' 'Deadpool,' 'Joy,' 'The Martian,' 'Ride Along 2,' 'Sisters,' 'Straight Outta Compton,' and more. "For years now, Amazon has demonstrated an incomparable capability for bringing customers exactly what they want, in all the ways they want it," said Sofia Chang, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Digital Distribution and Home Entertainment, HBO. "We have a very successful partnership with this great company that continues to evolve. We share the goal of providing Amazon customers more ways to access all of the high-quality HBO and Cinemax programming they’ve been asking for." Amazon Prime members can sign up for HBO and Cinemax through Amazon Channels now. And beyond HBO and Cinemax, the service offers a growing collection of over 80 premium and specialty channels to choose from. A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. Source: AmazonPosted Thu Dec 1, 2016 at 09:30 AM PST by: -
'Mars' Blu-ray Up For Pre-Order[teaser]The National Geographic film from Brian Grazer and Ron Howard will land on Blu-ray next year. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox says 'Mars' will arrive on Blu-ray in 2017. From executive producers Brian Grazer & Ron Howard, MARS is an epic series following a thrilling quest - in 2033 - to colonize Mars. In a unique blend of scripted drama and feature-film caliber visual effects, intercut with documentary sequences, the series presents what the greatest minds in space exploration are doing to make traveling to Mars a reality, and shows us the world they seek. You can find the latest specs for 'Mars' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under PENDING. Order the Blu-rayPosted Thu Dec 1, 2016 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
Delmar Daves' 'Broken Arrow' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The 1950 western starring James Stewart is headed for Blu-ray next year. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Kino is working on 'Broken Arrow' for Blu-ray in 2017. Nominated for three Academy Awards, Broken Arrow is a landmark western for its compassionate portrayal of Native Americans. The year is 1870, and former Union soldier Tom Jeffords (James Stewart) is recruited to remove a tribe of Apache warriors who have been interfering with U.S. mail delivery. But Jeffords refuses, preferring to learn about Apache culture in order to attempt a peace treaty. Not only does Apache chief Cochise (Jeff Chandler) promise at least temporary peace by "breaking the arrow," but Jeffords falls in love with - and marries - a Native American woman (Debra Paget). Tragedy strikes, however, and it is now Cochise's challenge to stop Jeffords from acting out in vengeance in this classic western "with plenty of action" (Daily Variety) that is also a compelling love story. The Blu-ray will feature a new 2K transfer and supplements include trailers and more. You can find the latest specs for 'Broken Arrow' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under PENDING.Posted Thu Dec 1, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
YouTube Launches 4K Ultra HD Live Streaming Support[teaser]The internet video platform now offers 4K live streaming capabilities.[/teaser] YouTube has announced the addition of 4K live streaming support. As part of the update, users can now watch and create 4K live streams of standard videos and 360 degree videos. With 4K live streaming, YouTube creators and partners can now broadcast standard and 360 Ultra HD content in real time. Likewise, viewers can enjoy the live streams on supported 4K devices. YouTube first launched 4K video support in 2010, and since then the platform has amassed the largest library of online 4K videos. YouTube 4K content is supported at up to 60 frames per second, allowing users to upload and watch highly detailed, smooth video. And with 360 degree support as well, viewers can experience immersive Ultra HD videos from all angles. To help kick off the new feature, YouTube will be live streaming the Game Awards tomorrow, December 1 at 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST in its entirety in 4K resolution. Beyond the platform's new 4K live streaming feature, YouTube also recently launched HDR (high dynamic range) video playback and upload support. High Dynamic Range content offers enhanced contrast with more detailed highlights and shadows. Likewise, HDR YouTube videos also include support for a wider color gamut. In addition, YouTube recently released a standalone VR (virtual reality) app for the Daydream View headset as well. The app was designed specifically for VR, offering a growing collection of 360 degree videos. Users can also watch standard videos on a virtual movie screen through the app's new theater mode. Google's Daydream View is now available through Verizon, Best Buy, and the Google Store for $79. Source: YouTubePosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 11:00 AM PST by: -
Paul Schrader's 'Dog Eat Dog' Blu-ray Detailed[teaser]The crime thriller starring Nicolas Cage, Willem Dafoe, and Christopher Matthew Cook planned for Blu-ray this December has now been detailed. [/teaser] As previously reported, Image Entertainment is working on 'Dog Eat Dog' for Blu-ray on December 27. The story of three men who are all out of prison and now have the task of adapting themselves to civilian life. The California three strikes law looms over them, but what the hell, they're going to do it, and they're going to do it their way. Troy, an aloof mastermind, seeks an uncomplicated, clean life but cannot get away from his hatred for the system. Diesel is on the mob's payroll and his interest in his suburban home and his nagging wife is waning. The loose cannon of the trio, Mad Dog, is possessed by true demons within, which lead him from one situation to the next. One more hit, one more jackpot, and they'll all be satisfied. The release will feature 1080p video, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: Nicolas Cage Video Introduction for TIFF; BeyondFest Q&A with Nicolas Cage and Paul Schrader; Audio Commentary with Director Paul Schrader; and a Photo Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'Dog Eat Dog' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under December 27. Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Netflix Adds Download Feature for iOS and Android Mobile Devices[teaser]Users can now download content for offline viewing.[/teaser] Netflix has announced the launch of a download feature for mobile devices. The new option is now available through the latest Netflix app on iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. With the new download feature, Netflix subscribers can now save content for offline viewing, allowing them to keep watching titles in situations where an internet connection might not be available. Users simply need to click on the download button located on the details page of the selected film or TV series. Several movies and shows are available for download starting today -- including 'Orange is The New Black,' 'Narcos' and 'The Crown' -- and support for more titles will be added in the future. Netflix mobile downloading is offered with all plans at no extra charge. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Pacific Heat' on December 2, 'Reggie Watts: Spatial' on December 6, 'Fuller House' season two on December 9, 'Barry' on December 16, 'Gabriel lglesias: I'm Sorry For What I Said When I Was Hungry' on December 20, 'Travelers' on December 23, 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' on January 13, 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, and 'Iron Fist' on March 17. Likewise, the streaming platform is also prepping new seasons of 'Chelsea,' 'Lady Dynamite,' and 'Real Rob,' the second season of 'Stranger Things' for 2017, the third season of 'Bloodline' for 2017, new episodes of the documentary series 'Making a Murderer,' 'Bill Nye Saves the World' for 2017, Marvel's 'The Punisher,' Marvel's 'Defenders,' a new 'Lost in Space' series, Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It,' the final season of 'Longmire,' the South Korean disaster film 'Pandora,' and a feature film adaptation of the manga 'Death Note.' Source: NetflixPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 09:30 AM PST by: -
Doug Jones, Michelle Yeoh, and Anthony Rapp Join 'Star Trek: Discovery' Cast, Streaming Premiere Set for May 2017[teaser]Three cast members have been confirmed for the upcoming streaming show.[/teaser] CBS has announced the addition of Doug Jones, Michelle Yeoh, and Anthony Rapp to the cast of 'Star Trek: Discovery.' The series is set to premiere on CBS All Access in May 2017. Star Trek, one of the most iconic and influential global television franchises, returns to television 50 years after it first premiered with STAR TREK: DISCOVERY. The series will feature a new ship, new characters, and new missions, while embracing the same ideology and hope for the future that inspired a generation of dreamers and doers. According to the press release, Doug Jones is set to star as Lt. Saru," a Starfleet Science Officer and a new alien species to the Star Trek universe. Meanwhile, Michelle Yeoh will star as "Captain Georgiou," the Starfleet Captain aboard the Starship Shenzhou. Finally, Anthony Rapp will play "Lt. Stamets," an astromycologist, fungus expert, and Starfleet Science Officer aboard the Starship Discovery. A special premiere episode of 'Star Trek: Discovery' will air on CBS in May 2017. Following that initial broadcast, all first run episodes of the show will be available exclusively through the CBS All Access streaming platform in the US. In addition, the series will stream globally (outside of the US and Canada) through Netflix. CBS All Access offers next day streaming for new episodes of many popular shows and a library of over 8,500 on demand episodes, including content from current programs like 'Limitless' and 'Elementary,' and classic series like 'Star Trek' and 'Cheers.' Likewise, customers in more than 150 markets across the US -- including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia -- can watch live local CBS broadcasts through the app. The service is available in two subscription plans: reduced commercials for $5.99 per month or commercial-free for $9.99 per month. The commercial free option offers ad-free playback of on demand content and upcoming original shows. With that said, live streaming will still include the same commercials found in standard over-the-air broadcasts. The service is currently available through the Xbox One, PS4, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick with Voice Remote, Roku players, Roku TVs, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox 360, and Windows 10, iOS and Android products. New customers can sign up for a one week free trial now at https://www.cbs.com/allaccess. Source: CBSPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 09:00 AM PST by: -
High-Def Digest Essentials: November 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 a chilling sci-fi/horror classic, a blood-soaked prom date, and a rivetting murder mystery. 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, March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, June 2016, July 2016, August 2016, September 2016, and October 2016. [teaser]For November, we're covering a stop-motion fairy tale, a slippery lawyer, and the approaching winds of winter.[/teaser] Please be aware, that if you haven't already seen them, there are some SPOILERS for the discs listed. If you only buy three titles that hit Blu-ray in November, here's what we suggest you pick up, starting with the most essential... 'Kubo and the Two Strings' - Strictly speaking, all movies are shot one frame at a time, but stop-motion animation takes this reality to another level. Marked by a painstaking attention to detail and a staggering dedication to craft, when done right, the art form is capable of breathing life into some truly beautiful films. And 'Kubo and the Two Strings' just might be one of the genre's most beautiful creations yet. An emotional, stirring, entertaining, and absolutely gorgeous celebration of storytelling, love, and human connection, the movie weaves a unique fairy tale adventure filled with talking monkeys, warrior beetles, skeleton monsters, and magical instruments. Using a classic fantasy adventure structure as its backbone, the film takes audiences of all ages on a mesmerizing journey as young Kubo (Art Parkinson) sets out to find magical armor in order to protect himself from his evil grandfather and aunts. Along the way we meet a couple of fun characters who aid our hero on his quest, encounter several obstacles, learn a few lessons, and eventually face the enemy in a harrowing battle. But while these simple beats are all pretty standard, the execution is nearly flawless and absolutely brimming with personality. Rooted in its own unique folklore, the movie easily establishes its magical world, and the mixture of stop-motion and CG animation creates a breathtakingly singular style with striking character designs, affecting expressions, and exciting action. And beneath all these sumptuous visuals are several powerful themes about family, memories, and love, adding depth and surprisingly complex emotion to the narrative. Of course, like all stories, 'Kubo' does ultimately come to an end, but as the film so sweetly reveals, ends don't have to be tragic, as all tales live on through those left to tell them. And I have a feeling this one will continue to be told for many years to come -- especially since this Blu-ray makes sharing it a breeze. A must own family film and a great disc through and through, this title belongs on every family's shelf. But as Kubo says throughout the film, "If you must blink, do it now," because you won't want to miss a single frame. Buy the Blu-ray Buy the Blu-ray 3D 'Better Call Saul: The Complete Second Season' - With its first season, 'Better Call Saul' had a lot to accomplish. As a spinoff of the late, great 'Breaking Bad,' the show had to not only demonstrate that it could turn an amusing in small-bursts supporting player like Saul Goodman into a full fledged protagonist, but it also had to somehow pull its way out of the giant shadow cast by its critically acclaimed predecessor (and his hat). But even with the odds stacked against them, good old "Slipping Jimmy" and company pulled it off without a hitch, offering a compelling tragicomic crime tale marked by an increasingly gripping character study. And with the series' second season, the show continues to expand upon its own unique style and voice through a truly masterful display of small-screen storytelling, proving that the first season's success was far more than just some simple con. As Jimmy (Bob Odenkirk) is thrust into a legitimate (and handsomely paid) position with a prestigious firm, we finally get to see what it's like when he plays by the rules... at least, for a little while. Adhering to that age old adage about a tiger and its stripes, it's not long before our lovable hero is back to his old tricks, practicing a decidedly more "colorful" brand of law. But despite his occasional transgressions, it's impossible not to root for the guy. He knows who he is and acts accordingly and, more importantly, almost always for the right reasons -- even if his methods are a bit unconventional. We cringe as we inevitably watch him make the same mistakes, but still can't help but be impressed by how he almost pulls it all off. Ironically, his heaviest character flaws end up being fueled by many of the same attributes that define his greatest strengths -- creativity, compassion, and a surprisingly steadfast work ethic. And just as season two helps to flesh out Jimmy, these episodes also do a great job of further developing the supporting cast, adding new tantalizing shades of depth to Chuck and Mike. But as impressive as the entire cast is, it's really Rhea Seehorn who steals the show. As Jimmy's potential business partner and love interest, Kim, the actress crafts a strikingly nuanced, delicately complex, and effortlessly believable performance that slowly reveals more layers throughout the season. Cementing itself as one of best written shows on TV, 'Better Call Saul' has fully carved an identity of its own, using elements of its parent series to establish its world while still expanding upon specific connections in order to fill in some intriguing gaps left from 'Breaking Bad.' And more than just expertly plotted, the season is also full of meaningful style, including a fantastic extended shot sequence and two masterful, character illuminating montages. Jimmy still might not be "Saul Goodman" just yet, but the path that leads him there is only growing increasingly absorbing (and slippery) with every episode. Buy the Blu-ray 'Game of Thrones: The Complete Sixth Season' - Throughout the years, 'Game of Thrones' has made quite a habit of killing off numerous important characters -- and usually in rather shocking, gruesome, and sudden ways, often leaving audiences wondering how the show will continue. But with its sixth season, the series introduces one of its riskiest plot developments yet. And ironically, it doesn't come in the form of another untimely death. It actually comes from a resurrection. In a notable break from Westerosi convention, the writers actually bring a recently axed character back to life, and though certain elements of his return are anticlimactic, it turns out that rebirth can be just as compelling as dismemberment. While the details behind Jon's return prove to be predictable, and it remains to be seen whether he suffers from any lasting consequences as a result of his demise, his resulting arc leads to one of the series' most epic and absolutely breathtaking showdowns while also paving the way for even more exciting developments in the future. Thanks to Bran's new penchant for time travel, one of the show's (and books') longest running theories is finally confirmed: L + R does indeed appear to equal J, as we bear witness to the birth of Jon Snow from his mother, Lyanna Stark. The ramifications of this reveal will likely go on to fuel much of the show's endgame, as Jon's true heritage could prove both useful and troublesome for a certain Mother of Dragons. And speaking of Dany, the season's closing moments present fans with an image many were starting to think they may never see, offering an appropriately grandiose tease of Daenerys' army finally crossing the Narrow Sea. There are some lulls along the way, but as we watch King's Landing burst into flame, Cercei take the Iron Throne, and three dragons soaring over the ocean, any occasional hiccups become easily forgivable. And at the very least, we get to spend mercifully little time in Dorne. With just two shortened seasons and a total of about thirteen episodes left, 'Game of Thrones' really has reached the beginning of the end -- and as the first chapter in the series' third act, season six offers another stellar batch of episodes. Likewise, this Blu-ray collections continues to maintain the high standards set by previous releases, providing a fantastic video transfer, an amazing Dolby Atmos soundtrack, and lots of great supplements. Though really, "Battle of the Bastards" almost makes this set a must buy on its own -- even if I do still wish Rickon would have just zigzagged! Buy the Blu-ray So, there you have it. While there were 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 Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 08:25 AM PST by: -
'Dead of Winter' Blu-ray Supplements Detailed[teaser]The bonus features for the 1987 thriller starring Mary Steenburgen and Roddy McDowall arriving on Blu-ray in the new year have now been detailed. [/teaser] As previously reported, Scream Factory is preparing 'Dead of Winter' for Blu-ray on January 10. Katie McGovern will do anything to make it as an actress…even if it kills her. Academy Award winner Mary Steenburgen and Roddy McDowell star in the chilling Dead Of Winter. When struggling actress Katie (Steenburgen) is offered the opportunity to replace an actress who has suffered an emotional breakdown during a film shoot, she jumps at the chance for the role of a lifetime. Arriving at the filming location – an isolated mansion in upstate New York – and getting to know her two mysterious benefactors, Dr. Lewis (Jan Rubes, Witness), and Mr. Murray (McDowell, Fright Night), she begins to suspect there's more to the story… but she can't quite put her finger on it. As the pieces fall into place and the weather outside turns frightful, Katie's quest for stardom becomes a fight for survival in this twisty thriller from the director of Bonnie & Clyde. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: NEW Interview With Actress Mary Steenburgen; Original Theatrical Trailer; TV Spots; and Still Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'Dead of Winter' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 10. Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Nov 30, 2016 at 08:00 AM PST by:
