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Ken Russell's 'The Lair of the White Worm' Blu-ray Announced[teaser]The Vestron Video classic comes to high-definition this January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate says 'The Lair of the White Worm' will hit Blu-ray on January 31. James D'Ampton (Hugh Grant) returns to his country castle in England. Legend has it that James' distant ancestor once slayed the local dragon- a monstrous white worm with a fondness for the sweet flesh of virgins. The young Lord dismisses the legend as folklore, until archaeology student, Angus Flint, unearths a massive reptilian skull and the ancient worship site of a pagan snake god on James' property. When James' virtuous girlfriend, Eve (Catherine Oxenburg), suddenly disappears, he and Angus set out to investigate the foreboding cavern said to be the worm's lair where a centuries-old mystery begins to uncoil. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: Two Audio Commentaries: Director Ken Russell, Lisi Russell, in conversation with Film Historian Matthew Melia; 'Worm Food: The Effects of The Lair of the White Worm' featurette; 'Cutting for Ken' an Interview with Editor Peter Davies; 'Mary, Mary' an interview with Actress Sammi Davis; 'Trailers from Hell' featuring Producer Dan Ireland; Theatrical Trailers; and Still Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'The Lair of the White Worm' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 31. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Nov 29, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Netflix Unveils Trailer for 'Reggie Watts: Spatial,' Streaming Premiere Set for December 6[teaser]The comedian will hit the stage on Netflix in December.[/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its upcoming comedy special, 'Reggie Watts: Spatial'. The show will premiere exclusively through Netflix on December 6. Comedian/musician Reggie Watts brings viewers along on a one-of-a-kind surrealist experimental comedy adventure. The completely improvised show weaves together sketches, short stories, and dream sequences creating a truly unique experience. Filmed live on a soundstage in Los Angeles, Watts waxes poetic about flight, grits, and guns - and takes the audience on a trip fantastic they will not soon forget. Check out the trailer below! In addition to Watts' new special, Netflix is also preparing a stand-up show from Gabriel Iglesias. 'Gabriel lglesias: I’m Sorry For What I Said When I Was Hungry' (Premieres Tuesday, December 20, 2016) - One of the most popular comedians in the world with sell out concerts in over 24 countries, this special marks Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias’ Netflix original stand-up comedy debut and sixth comedy special. Watch as Fluffy reflects on his life and more before a sold out house in Chicago, IL. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Fuller House' season two on December 9, 'Barry' on December 16, '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,' a new sci-fi series called 'Travelers' from writer Brad Wright, 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,' Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It,' and a feature film adaptation of the manga 'Death Note.' A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 01:30 PM PST by: -
High-Def Digest's Holiday Movie Round-Up - Part 1: The Top 10 ClassicsI have a lot of favorite movies, but do I watch them all once a year? Not a chance. And yet somehow I make time every holiday season to cozy up to a handful of classic yuletide films. There's just something warm and comforting about revisiting these iconic motion pictures, all of which transmit the same timeless messages of hope, kinship, and joy. Between 1927 and 1970, Hollywood produced enough Christmas movies to fill Santa's sack a few times over. Not all stand the test of time, but after much consideration, [teaser]High-Def Digest has compiled a Top 10 List of holiday classics that are readily available on Blu-ray and well worth an annual spin.[/teaser] Whether tuneful or tear-jerking, comic or romantic, all of them are perennial favorites. So pour the hot chocolate (or maybe a brandy), light the fire, grab a blanket, and enjoy these highly recommended seasonal discs. It just won't be Christmas without them. #10 - 'Remember the Night' (1940) Arguably the most obscure title on this list, 'Remember the Night' is a little-known, understated gem. Written by Preston Sturges, who masterfully mixes comedy, romance, and pathos, and delicately directed by Mitchell Leisen, this affecting trifle focuses on a suspected shoplifter (Barbara Stanwyck) who's given a Christmas furlough by a guilt-ridden D.A. (Fred MacMurray) who can't bear to see her stuck in jail over the holidays. The two travel to his mother's Indiana home, where the cynical, street-wise dame experiences first-hand the type of close-knit family life that has eluded her. Over the course of a few days, they grow close, but what happens after Christmas is over and he's forced to prosecute her? Though some of the comedy is a bit dated, the intimacy and warmth remain palpable, thanks to the sensitive performances of Stanwyck, MacMurray, Beulah Bondi, and a first-rate supporting cast. As I wrote in my review of the film, "the best things come in small packages, and 'Remember the Night' is a winsome holiday surprise - unassuming in presentation, yet strangely wondrous." #9 - 'Christmas in Connecticut' (1945) Five years after 'Remember the Night,' Stanwyck made another Christmas picture with a higher profile. In this breezy, World War II-era romantic romp she plays a Martha Stewart-like domestic diva who's roped into hosting a serviceman on leave over the holidays. The only problem is her finely crafted persona is a total sham (she can't even fry an egg!), and if her publisher gets wind of her deception, she'll be fired. What ensues is a madcap Christmas packed with countless complications that conspire to unmask her, not the least of which is her burgeoning affection for the GI (Dennis Morgan) who buys her phony act hook, line, and sinker. An adept comedienne, Stanwyck shines in an energetic portrayal, and she receives priceless support from Sydney Greenstreet, S.Z. Sakall, and Reginald Gardiner. A few laugh-out-loud lines and lovely chemistry between Stanwyck and Morgan make this chipper rom com a fun diversion for the whole family. #8 - 'The Bishop's Wife' (1947) Though Hollywood's most famous guardian angel will be properly saluted in a subsequent entry in this list, Dudley, a do-right spirit played by a dapper Cary Grant, checks in at #2. He spontaneously appears during the Christmas season to help Henry (David Niven), a beleaguered minister, and his put-upon wife, Julia (Loretta Young), who fears her husband's preoccupation with building a cathedral is destroying their marriage. As pressures mount, Julia grows closer to Dudley (who she believes to be human), which sends Henry into a jealous pique. This charming fantasy deftly explores this odd triangle with gentle humor and honest emotion, blending romance with inspiration as Dudley enlightens not only Henry and Julia, but also others in their intimate circle. Shot with ethereal grace and punctuated by fine performances, 'The Bishop's Wife' is a heartwarming tale that's simple and meaningful. #7 - 'Scrooge' (1970) Albert Finney was only 34 years old when he tackled the venerable role of Ebenezer Scrooge in this musical version of Charles Dickens' classic 'A Christmas Carol,' but he nails the part, embracing the legendary miser's bitter loneliness, sour attitude, and - at last - giddy delight after he's redeemed by a trio of spirits one spooky Christmas Eve in Victorian London. Unlike other interpretations of Scrooge, Finney plays the character as both a young man and aged curmudgeon (check out the picture below), and several memorable songs by Leslie Bricusse enhance the familiar story, both heightening its sense of loss and regret and infusing it with an infectious vim and vigor. Purists may occasionally cry foul, but 'Scrooge,' which features cameos by a gallery of Britain's finest actors, including Alec Guinness as Jacob Marley, is an unqualified delight that captivates the senses and warms the cockles of our hearts. #6 - 'White Christmas' (1954) Packed to the gills with Irving Berlin tunes, including the iconic title song, spiked with terpsichore, and dressed to the nines with gorgeous Technicolor, 'White Christmas' is the type of splashy, sumptuous fare that painlessly injects everyone with a jolt of holiday spirit. Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera-Ellen, and Rosemary Clooney make a winning quartet, singing and dancing to more than a dozen Berlin standards as they mount a stage show designed to save the struggling Vermont inn of a crusty Army general (Dean Jagger) who's fallen on hard times. Snappy dialogue, eye-popping production numbers, and a sprinkling of sentiment keep the film's engine humming, and a Crosby-Kaye drag duet of 'Sisters' is a definite comic highlight. No matter how many times you see it, it's impossible not to dream of a white Christmas after seeing this festive, entertaining film. #5 - 'Meet Me in St. Louis' (1944) Only a third of this wonderful Technicolor musical takes place at Christmas, but the sequence is so memorable, it makes an indelible impression. Countless singers have recorded 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,' but the incomparable Judy Garland introduces it here, wistfully singing it to a weepy Margaret O'Brien, and hers is the definitive version. This year-in-the-life chronicle of the generically named Smiths, who eagerly anticipate the 1904 World's Fair, is oh-so-identifiable as it addresses the simple yet timeless issues of home, faith, and the ties that bind, while perfectly depicting the dynamics of an average American family. Other great songs like 'The Boy Next Door' and 'The Trolley Song,' marvelous performances, and impeccable direction by Vincente Minnelli make this uplifting film appealing any season of the year, but especially around the holidays. #4 - 'Holiday Inn' (1942) A dozen years before 'White Christmas,' Irving Berlin penned the song that would spawn that film, and Bing Crosby unforgettably introduces it in 'Holiday Inn.' The anthem became an instant classic and so did this sprightly movie about an inn that only opens on holidays and the rivalry between two men (Crosby and Fred Astaire) who love the same girl (Marjorie Reynolds). Great numbers abound, almost all of which are paired to various holidays throughout the year (Astaire's Fourth of July firecracker dance is a highlight), and plenty of comedy fuels the narrative, but it's the easygoing chemistry between Crosby and Astaire and that iconic shot of Bing crooning 'White Christmas' at the piano in front of a roaring fire that make this marvelous seasonal musical truly sing. #3 - 'Miracle on 34th Street' (1947) If you've ever doubted the existence of Santa Claus, 'Miracle on 34th Street' will make you believe all over again. Writer-director George Seaton's inspired and incisive script about a department store Santa (Edmund Gwenn) who swears he's the real Kris Kringle - and is willing to go to court to prove it - won an Oscar, and Gwenn was named Best Supporting Actor for his whimsical and endearing portrayal. A young Natalie Wood made a name for herself as the cynical child who tries to call his bluff and Maureen O'Hara files arguably her most memorable performance as her matter-of-fact mother who falls for the affable lawyer (John Payne) who takes up Santa's cause. Terrific supporting turns by Gene Lockhart, Jerome Cowan, William Frawley, and especially Thelma Ritter add extra zing to one of Hollywood's snappiest and most inventive holiday films. As I wrote in 2009, "Filled with humor, honest sentiment, and enough seasonal cheer to perk up Ebenezer Scrooge, this timeless classic…never gets stale." #2 - 'A Christmas Carol' (1951) Charles Dickens' timeless Christmas ghost story has been filmed several times, but the best adaptation not surprisingly comes from the Brits. This version, which embraces the tale's dark elements and flaunts a deliciously creepy feel, strays a bit from the novel, but features the finest interpretation of its hero, that cantankerous Christmas killjoy, Ebenezer Scrooge. Alastair Sim spoils the role for anyone else with a performance that's both broad and understated, but he doesn't neglect the delicate shadings in between. His is a three-dimensional Scrooge, and his wildly expressive face aptly reflects the miser's gamut of emotions. The joyful climax overflows with yuletide cheer and is guaranteed to melt even the hardest heart. To paraphrase Tiny Tim, God bless this movie, everyone! #1 - 'It's a Wonderful Life' (1946) Few films make me cry like a baby EVERY TIME I see them, but Frank Capra's 'It's a Wonderful Life' never fails to evoke a visceral emotional response. James Stewart is brilliant as George Bailey, an unselfish man who sacrifices his dreams in the name of service and responsibility and remains devoted to his family despite more pressures and setbacks than anyone should have to bear. When at last he believes all hope is lost, he contemplates suicide, but just in the nick of time, a novice guardian angel named Clarence (Henry Travers) descends from heaven one fateful Christmas Eve to prove to George how important and meaningful his life has been. 'It's a Wonderful Life' has been copied and parodied to a fare-thee-well over the past 70 years, but it remains the quintessential Christmas movie because it celebrates the human spirit and shows how seemingly insignificant acts can profoundly affect others and even change the world. A fresh-faced Donna Reed, young Gloria Grahame, and gallery of fine character actors, including Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, H.B. Warner, and Beulah Bondi all make essential contributions to this inspirational tale that seamlessly blends comedy, drama, romance, and fantasy. Though it wasn't very successful at the time of its release, 'It's a Wonderful Life' has grown in stature exponentially over the years to become an indisputable classic and an annual holiday tradition for many families. It's our top Christmas film pick, and if by some chance you've never seen it, you're in for a treat. Just make sure you have the Kleenex handy.Posted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 01:00 PM PST by: -
Cameron Crowe's 'Jerry Maguire: 20th Anniversary Edition' Blu-ray Announced and Detailed[teaser]The 1996 romantic drama starring Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Renee Zellweger is getting a 20th anniversary edition this January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Sony is working on 'Jerry Maguire: 20th Anniversary Edition' for Blu-ray on January 3. Jerry Maguire (Tom Cruise) is a sports agent who is long on ambition but short on scruples. After he suddenly and ceremoniously loses his job and his girlfriend (Kelly Preston), both his personal and professional careers hit an all-time low. But when a single mother (Renee Zellweger) enters his life and his heart, he finds himself negotiating the biggest deal of his life... for the heart and the hand of the woman that he loves. The release will feature the fully 4K-remastered feature film in 1080p video, lossless 5.1 audio, and supplements include: Jerry Maguire: We Meet Again 3-Part Retrospective; Nearly 60 Minutes of Deleted & Extended Scenes; Photo Gallery; and Archival Special Features (from the previous Blu-ray). For a limited time, the 'Jerry Maguire: 20th Anniversary Edition' will be exclusively available at Best Buy and this exclusive edition will also include a booklet with an introduction by Crowe, the 25-page mission statement featured in the film, and the original soundtrack CD. You can find the latest specs for 'Jerry Maguire: 20th Anniversary Edition' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 3.Posted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
Bob Balaban's 'Parents' Announced for Blu-ray[teaser]Another Vestron Video favorite is planned for Blu-ray in January. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate is preparing 'Parents' for Blu-ray on January 31. Meet the Laemles- and taste the terror in this black comedy, Dad's (Randy Quaid) got a great job, Mom (Mary Beth Hurt) has all the modern conveniences a happy homemaker could ask for, and ten-year-old Michael (Brian Madorsky) has neat new friends and two parents that kill him with kindness. They're the all-American family of 1954...with one small exception. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: Audio Commentary with Director Bob Balaban and Producer Bonnie Palef; Isolated Score Selections/Audio Interviw with Composer Jonathan Elias; 'Leftovers To Be' with Screenwriter Christopher Hawthorne; 'Mother's Day' with Actress Mary Beth Hurt; 'Inside Out' with Director of Photography Robin Vidgeon; 'Vintage Tastes' with Decorative Consultant Yolando Cuomo; Original Theatrical Trailer; Radio Spots; and Still Gallery. You can find the latest specs for 'Parents' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under January 31. Order the Blu-rayPosted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Integra Releases DSX-3 Slim A/V Receiver & DLB-5 Object-Based Surround Sound Bar[teaser]Two new audio products are now shipping.[/teaser] Integra has announced the launch of its latest home theater gear. The DSX-3 Slim A/V Receiver & DLB-5 Object-Based Surround Sound Bar are both available now. The 6.1 channel DSX-3 is a slim receiver model that measures just three inches in height and weighs only 8.8lbs. The device offers 80 watts per channel at 4 ohms, and uses a 384 kHz/32-bit Asahi Kasei DAC. In addition, the unit supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (via a firmware update), along with several wireless connectivity options like FireConnect, AirPlay, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and online subscription services like TIDAL, Pandora, Spotify and TuneIn. Four 4K 60Hz HDMI terminals with HDR, 4:4:4, BT.2020 and HDCP 2.2 compliancy are included as well. Meanwhile, the DLB-5 Object-Based Surround Sound Bar is a three-piece system with a passive sound bar, a 50 watt 6.5" wireless powered sub, and a control unit based on the DSX-3 slim-line AVR (50 watts per channel at 4 ohms, 1 kHz, 1% THD). The low profile sound bar unit features six speaker drivers -- including dual center and dual left and right, along with two up-firing speakers that provide support for DTS:X and Dolby Atmos object-based immersive audio by bouncing sound off of the ceiling. In addition, the system's receiver offers support for FireConnect, AirPlay, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, several Internet Radio services, and DTS' Play-Fi multi-room, wireless streaming audio technology (via future firmware update). Finally, the unit also includes four 4K / 60Hz HDMI terminals with HDCP 2.2, HDR10, and BT.2020 Color. The DSX-3 6.1-Channel Slim Chassis Network A/V Receiver is now available for $600, and the DLB-5 Network Object-Based Surround Sound Bar is now available for $1,200. Source: IntegraPosted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 09:00 AM PST by: -
'The Take' Blu-ray Bound[teaser]The action-thriller starring Idris Elba arrives on Blu-ray in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Universal is working on 'The Take' for Blu-ray on February 7. Idris Elba stars as Sean Briar, a rogue CIA agent who isn't afraid to step on a few toes to solve a case. While roaming the streets of Paris, a pickpocket (Richard Madden, TV's Game of Thrones) swipes a bag containing a bomb and inadvertently ruins a bank heist attempt by corrupt French government officials. Now labeled as a terrorist threat and running for his life, the only person who can save him is Sean. This unlikely duo joins forces to solve the case before they become victims in a devious plot. The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, lossless 7.1 audio, and supplements include Making The Take. You can find the latest specs for 'The Take' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under February 7.Posted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 08:00 AM PST by: -
Cyber Monday HD Gear Deals: Up to 25% off Sony 4K Ultra HD TVs![teaser]Amazon is offering big discounts on select Sony 4K TVs![/teaser] As part of the online retailer's Cyber Monday Deals Store, Amazon is running a special sale on Ultra HD TVs from Sony. Sony XBR55X850D 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart TV - Currently $898 (25% off). Sony XBR75X850D 4K HDR Ultra HD Smart TV - Currently $2,498 (24% off). Sony XBR65X750D 64.5" 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV - Currently $998 (23% off). Sony XBR55X700D 55-Inch HDR 4K Ultra HD TV - Currently $698 (22% off). Sony XBR65Z9D 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV - Currently $4,998 (17% off). Sony XBR55X930D 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD 3D Smart TV - Currently $1,498 (12% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more Cyber Monday sales and special promotions!Posted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 07:25 AM PST by: -
Vito Trabucco's 'Never Open the Door' Announced for Blu-ray[teaser]The chilling homage to the twisted and otherworldly tales of the original "Twilight Zone", "Outer Limits" and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" series is headed for Blu-ray in December. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Maltauro Entertainment is working on 'Never Open the Door' for Blu-ray on December 6. Three happy couples retreat to a cozy secluded cabin in the woods to enjoy Thanksgiving. A badly wounded stranger appears at the door, and when they let him in, he throws up blood and collapses on the floor. As he dies, he points towards the lovers and croaks his final words: "Never open the door". The dumbfounded group of friends start to panic as one of their own inexplicably disappears. Doubt rises by the minute and mistrust soaks through the cabin. As strange men surround the cabin, escape becomes paramount. Who will open the door? Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements will include interviews with the cast and crew, behind the scenes footage and more. You can find the latest specs for 'Never Open the Door' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under December 6.Posted Mon Nov 28, 2016 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
Cyber Monday HD Gear Deals Week: Up to 58% off 1080p Projectors[teaser]Amazon is offering big discounts on select projectors![/teaser] As part of the online retailer's Cyber Monday Deals Store, Amazon is running a special sale on projectors from Epson, Optoma, and ViewSonic, ViewSonic PJD7720HD 1080p DarkChip3 Home Theater Projector - Currently $550 (50% off). Optoma HD142X 1080p 3000 Lumens 3D DLP Home Theater Projector - Currently $549 (45% off). Optoma HD28DSE 1080p 3D DLP Home Theater Projector - Currently $674 (58% off). Epson Home Cinema 1040 1080p Projector - Currently $550 (31% off). Epson Home Cinema 1040 1080p Projector (Refurbished) - Currently $500. These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more Black Friday sales and special promotions!Posted Sat Nov 26, 2016 at 09:00 AM PST by:
