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STARZ Launches Subscription Streaming Service, Price Set for $9 per Month[teaser]The premium cable channel is now the latest network to offer a cord-cutting option. [/teaser] STARZ has announced the launch of its own standalone streaming platform. The new STARZ digital retail service costs $9 per month and offers both online streaming and download support for offline viewing. "Starz has entered the market today with an enormous value proposition for consumers. Our programing will now be more widely available to the 20 million broadband only homes of cord nevers, cord cutters and cord shavers, including Millennials and other underserved consumers who need other viable subscription service options," Starz CEO Chris Albrecht said. "With the growing consumer appetite for our highly-rated, award–winning and diverse original programing and vast library of movies, our elegant and powerful app is the first in the industry to allow download capability to watch premium content anytime, anywhere, without the need for Wi-Fi access. Showcasing the rebranded STARZ offerings we announced last month, we believe this innovative app will also help fortify the broadband business of many of our traditional distributors and be even more appealing for inclusion in future video bundles." The STARZ standalone streaming app provides access to more than 2,400 titles each month, including STARZ original series like 'Outlander,' 'Power,' and the upcoming 'American Gods,' as well as popular movies including 'Avengers: Age of Ultron' and, later this year, 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens.' The service lets up to four users watch content simultaneously along with support for virtually unlimited downloads. STARZ is now available through the App Store for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Apple TV. Likewise, STARZ is also available through the Google Play Store for numerous Android supported devices. Customers can now subscribe to the STARZ digital service in-app from their supported devices or through PCs and MACs. Likewise, current STARZ cable and satellite subscribers can also use the app by authenticating their memberships. Finally, to celebrate the new app, STARZ will be debuting the second installment premiere episode of 'Outlander' on April 7 for streaming and download in advance of its official premiere on STARZ on April 9. Source: STARZ via BusinessWirePosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
Who You Gonna Call? 'Ghostbusters' and 'Ghostbusters II' Dated for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]Both comedies will be available on 4K Blu-rays in June. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Sony will be releasing 'Ghostbusters 4K' and 'Ghostbusters II 4K' on 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays on June 7. As two of the first Sony 4K Ultra HD disc releases, both films were fully restored from the 35mm original camera negatives, thereby utilizing in 4K the full resolution, detail and color depth inherent in the film. 4K Ultra HD is the perfect way to finally experience these comprehensive restorations at full 4K resolution in the home – it features four times the resolution of high definition, along with High Dynamic Range (HDR), which produces brilliant highlights, vibrant colors and greater contrast on compatible displays. Additionally, both films have been remixed specifically for the home theater environment with Dolby Atmos® audio, delivering captivating sound that places and moves audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. These new 4K Ultra HD releases precede the July 15 U.S. premiere of Sony Pictures’ highly anticipated new motion picture, Ghostbusters, from director Paul Feig, starring Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones, and Chris Hemsworth. Also, as part of the excitement surrounding the arrival of the new film, SPHE will release over 50 episodes of the iconic 1980s animated series, The Real Ghostbusters, on DVD July 7 and on Digital, from Ivan Reitman, DiC and Sony Pictures Television. Both Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II are directed and produced by Ivan Reitman (Meatballs, Stripes), and written by Dan Aykroyd (My Girl) and Harold Ramis (Knocked Up). Bill Murray (St. Vincent), Dan Aykroyd (Blues Brothers), and Sigourney Weaver (Aliens) star, along with Harold Ramis (Groundhog Day) and Rick Moranis (Honey I Shrunk the Kids). Ernie Hudson (TV’s “Oz”) and Annie Potts (TV’s “Designing Women”) also star. Ghostbusters is ranked No. 28 on the AFI’s List of America’s Funniest Movies. Ghostbusters: University parapsychologists Dr. Peter Venkman (Murray), Dr. Raymond Stanz (Aykroyd) and Dr. Egon Spengler (Ramis) lose a research grant when their experiment methodology is proven to be bogus. The team decides to go into business for themselves and open ‘Ghostbusters,’ a ghost removal service. After struggling to get on their feet, they are summoned to investigate the strange happenings in Dana Barrett’s (Weaver) Central Park West apartment. What they discover is that all Manhattan is being besieged by ghosts and other-worldly demons through a portal in her building. Ghostbusters II: Supernatural superstars Peter Venkman (Murray), Dr. Raymond Stanz (Aykroyd) and Dr. Egon Spengler (Ramis) spring back into action when the infant son of Dana Barrett (Weaver) becomes the target of a powerful demonic force. Reunited with their industrious secretary Janine (Potts) and the nerdy, near-sighted Louis (Moranis), the ‘heroes of the hereafter’ must put a stop to an enormous underground river ready to rot the roots of the entire Big Apple. 'Ghostbusters' will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements include: Who You Gonna Call: A Ghostbusters Retrospective - Roundtable Discussion with Director Ivan Reitman and Dan Aykroyd (Part 1); Poster Art Gallery – Gallery of 1988 artwork; Ray Parker Jr. Music Video; Slimer Mode – Picture in Picture and Trivia Track; 10 Deleted Scenes; Featurettes; Commentary with Ivan Reitman, Harold Ramis & Joe Medjuck; Multi-Angles; Ecto-1: Resurrecting the Classic Car; and Ghostbusters Garage: Ecto-1 Gallery Storyboard Comparisons. 'Ghostbusters II' will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements include: Time Is But A Window: Ghostbusters II and Beyond - Roundtable Discussion with Director Ivan Reitman and Dan Aykroyd (Part 2); Bobby Brown Music Video; Deleted Scenes; and Theatrical Trailers. You can find the latest specs for 'Ghostbusters 4K' and 'Ghostbusters II 4K' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they're indexed under June 7.Posted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
Stanley Donen's 'Movie Movie' Blu-ray Dated[teaser]The musical comedy will arrive on Blu-ray in June. [/teaser] As previously reported, Scorpion Releasing is preparing 'Movie. Movie' for Blu-ray, and now the date has been set for June 28. Newly re-mastered in HD! A hilarious two-films-in-one toast to the classic B movies of Hollywood in its heyday when the double features were king. Dynamite Hands (in black and white, of course) is the fight story about big punch boxer Joey Popchick (Harry Hamlin, Clash Of The Titans), his trainer Gloves Malloy (George C. Scott, Patton) and the up-to-no-good Vince Marlow (Eli Wallach, The Good The Bad And The Ugly). Baxters Beauties of 1933 (in gorgeous living color, naturally) follows the fortunes of Broadway producer Spats Baxter (George C. Scott) with a heart of gold and a daughter who thinks she s an orphan and ends up saving the day in Spats best show ever. Featuring an all-star cast including Barry Bostwick (The Rocky Horror Picture Show), Art Carney (Harry & Tonto), Red Buttons (Sayonara), Kathleen Beller (The Betsy), Barbara Harris (Family Plot), Anne Reinking (All That Jazz) and Trish Van Devere (The Hearse) and directed by the great Stanley Donen (Singin In The Rain, Charade). Specs have not been detailed yet, but supplements will include: NEW interviews with Harry Hamlin, Kathleen Beller and Barry Bostwick; and an Introduction by George Burns. You can find the latest specs for 'Movie Movie' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 28. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 10:00 AM PDT by: -
'Miracles From Heaven' Starring Jennifer Garner Announced for Blu-ray[teaser]The inspirational drama is now available for pre-order. [/teaser]In an early announcement to retailers, Sony is preparing 'Miracles From Heaven' for Blu-ray later this year. 'Miracles From Heaven' is based on the incredible true story of the Beam family. When Christy (Jennifer Garner) discovers her 10-year-old daughter Anna (Kylie Rogers) has a rare, incurable disease, she becomes a ferocious advocate for her daughter’s healing as she searches for a solution. After Anna has a freak accident, an extraordinary miracle unfolds in the wake of her dramatic rescue that leaves medical specialists mystified, her family restored, and their community inspired. Specs and supplements have not been detailed yet. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD/UltraViolet combo pack is $38.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Miracles From Heaven' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under PENDING. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 08:00 AM PDT by: -
Roku Details New Streaming Stick with Quad-Core Processor, MSRP Set at $50[teaser]The new streaming stick features upgraded performance and features. [/teaser] Roku has announced a new version of its popular streaming stick. The updated Roku Streaming Stick now has more processing power than any other pocket sized streaming player on the market. "The Roku Streaming Stick is one of our most popular models. Consumers appreciate having access to the complete Roku streaming experience in a portable, low-‐cost device," said Sharad Sundaresan, SVP product management for Roku. "The new Roku Streaming Stick takes our popular experience to the next level with a significant upgrade in power and performance, as well as features that are specifically designed to get people to the entertainment they want to watch quickly and easily whether they’re at home or on the go." The new Roku Streaming Stick features a compact, sleek design that is smaller and 8x more powerful than the previous version. Under the hood, the device is run by a quad core processor, giving it more processing power than the competing Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast. In addition, the device runs the latest Roku OS 7.1, providing access to over 3,000 streaming channels, including 300,000 movies and TV episodes, along with a universal search option. Likewise, the updated operating system adds new categories within Roku Feed allowing customers to discover popular TV shows and movies in one place. The media dongle also offers a private listening option through wired or wireless headphones via a mobile phone or tablet when using the Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android devices. Additional features include Dual-band MIMO wireless; a remote for easy navigation and control; video casting support from Netflix and YouTube mobile apps; remote control support from the Roku Mobile App for iOS and Android; and Hotel and Dorm Connect for easy connection to wireless networks away from home. Roku's latest Streaming Stick is now available for pre-order for $50. The device is expected to hit stores later this month. Source: RokuPosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Funimation Details 'The Boy and the Beast' for Blu-ray[teaser]The latest feature film from award-winning Japanese director Mamoru Hosoda is coming to Blu-ray in June. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, FUNimation Entertainment is preparing 'The Boy and the Beast' for Blu-ray on June 7. When Kyuta, a young orphan living on the streets of Shibuya, stumbles into a fantastic world of beasts, he's taken in by Kumatetsu, a gruff, rough-around-the-edges warrior beast who's been searching for the perfect apprentice. Despite their constant bickering, Kyuta and Kumatetsu begin training together and slowly form a bond as surrogate father and son. But when a deep darkness threatens to throw the human and beast worlds into chaos, the strong bond between this unlikely pair will be put to the ultimate test-a final showdown that will only be won if the two can finally work together using all of their combined strength and courage. Supplements have not been revealed yet, but the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital HD combo pack will feature 1080p video, and Japanese and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 soundtracks. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $34.98. You can find the latest specs for 'The Boy and the Beast' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7. Order the Blu-rayPosted Tue Apr 5, 2016 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Samsung Adds WebVR Internet Browsing Support to Gear VR Headset[teaser]The company's virtual reality headset now offers experimental support for WebVR. [/teaser] Samsung has announced the addition of WebVR support to its Samsung Internet for GearVR 1.0 internet browser on the Gear VR headset. With that said, the WebVR spec has not been finalized yet, so current support is listed as experimental. Once activated within a user's Gear VR browser, WebVR integration allows Gear VR customers to view supported virtual reality content and videos directly through their internet browser. WebVR on Samsung Internet for GearVR 1.0 currently uses the deprecated API set, but the company hopes to update support with the latest WebVR draft soon. In addition to native virtual reality content, Samsung Internet for GearVR 1.0 lets users browse all web pages through an immersive, big screen environment, along with support for streaming side-by-side 3D videos, streaming spherical 360 degree videos, and streaming 3D 360 degree videos. Likewise, the browser offers a Video History option, on-screen keyboard and voice input, support for Bluetooth devices like gamepads and keyboards, and other standard features like Quick Access, Bookmarks and Tab Manager. The Samsung Gear VR is a virtual reality headset that weighs just 318g and offers an FOV of 96 degrees. Gear VR currently works in conjunction with Samsung Galaxy S7, S7 edge, Galaxy Note5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6, and Galaxy S6 edge smartphones, using each device's super AMOLED display to help create an immersive VR experience. Suggested retail price for the Gear VR is $99. Beyond WebVR support, other recent Gear VR additions include a Hulu VR app. Likewise, FOX Sports and NextVR announced a partnership to offer live VR stream for sporting events through the Gear VR, and tonight's NCAA National Championship will be viewable in VR through Samsung's headset. Sources: Mozilla, Engadget, SamMobilePosted Mon Apr 4, 2016 at 01:15 PM PDT by: -
'Every Thing Will Be Fine' on Blu-ray in June[teaser]Wim Wenders' drama starring Rachel McAdams and James Franco will arrive on Blu-ray in June. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, IFC Films is preparing 'Every Thing Will Be Fine' for Blu-ray on June 7. This searing drama charts the emotional odyssey of a struggling novelist whose life is turned upside down one wintry night following a fatal car accident. The incident sets him on a soul-searching, decades-long journey toward redemption, a quest that profoundly touches the lives of both his girlfriend and the accident victim's mother. Specs and supplements have not been detailed yet. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $29.98. You can find the latest specs for 'Every Thing Will Be Fine' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 7. Order the Blu-rayPosted Mon Apr 4, 2016 at 12:00 PM PDT by: -
Netflix Debuts Trailer for French Series 'Marseille' Starring Gérard Depardieu[teaser]A trailer for the upcoming series has been revealed. [/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its latest original show, 'Marseille.' The French political drama is set to premiere worldwide exclusively through Netflix on May 5. As the municipal elections approach in Marseille, Robert Taro, the city's Mayor for the last twenty years, prepares his last coup: push through the vote for the construction of a casino in the historic center of the Marina. Nothing has been left to chance, and his successor, Lucas Barrès, is already designated. But the latter's all-consuming ambition and the secret interests of the city's leaders, whether they come from its opulent villas or from the cities of the northern suburbs, impede the Mayor's plans. The race for Mayor becomes a power struggle where no holds are barred. Only one question arises: how far will they go? Check out the trailer below! 'Marseille' stars Gérard Depardieu (Robert Taro), Benoît Magimel (Lucas Barrès), Géraldine Pailhas (Rachel Taro), Nadia Farès (Vanessa d’Abrantès), Stéphane Caillard (Julia), Jean-René Privat (Cosini), Guillaume Arnault (Eric), Hedi Bouchenafa (Farid), Carolina Jurczak (Barbara), and Nassim Si Ahmed (Selim). The series is written by Dan Franck who is also on board as Executive Producer. The first season will consist of eight episodes. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' season two on April 15, 'Special Correspondents' on April 29, 'Chelsea' on May 11, season two of 'Chef's Table' on May 27, 'The Do-Over' on May 27, the documentary 'Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru' on July 15, and 'Home: Adventures with Tip & Oh' on July 29. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Mon Apr 4, 2016 at 10:45 AM PDT by: -
Lionsgate Readies 'The Choice' for Blu-ray[teaser]The latest Nicholas Sparks adaptation is heading to Blu-ray in May. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate is preparing 'The Choice' for Blu-ray on May 3. When feisty medical student Gabby Holland moves in next door to perennial ladies' man Travis Shaw, it sends them both on a romantic journey neither ever dreamed possible. Travis has always believed a serious relationship with a woman would cramp his easygoing lifestyle, while Gabby is all set to settle down her long-term boyfriend-until an irresistible attraction between the unlikely couple upends both of their well-planned lives. After a whirlwind courtship, Gabby and Travis wed and build a family together, making every decision hand-in-hand until one of them is forced to make the most important choice of their life alone. A poignant and life-affirming celebration of love, marriage and family that explores the most heart-wrenching question of all: how far would you go to keep the hope of love alive? Specs have not been detailed yet, but supplements will include: Deleted Scenes; "Cinematic Choices: Making The Choice" Featurette; "Choosing Home: Nicholas Sparks and North Carolina" Featurette; "Nicholas Sparks with..." Featurette; Molly & Moby: Choice Dogs; and Audio Commentary with Director Ross Katz and Actor Benjamin Walker. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital HD combo pack is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'The Choice' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under May 3. Order the Blu-rayPosted Mon Apr 4, 2016 at 10:00 AM PDT by:
