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Monday, April 8, 2024

DISNEY+ UNVEILS TRAILER FOR “STAR WARS: TALES OF THE EMPIRE”

 



Disney+ released the trailer, key art and trailer stills for Lucasfilm’s upcoming, original animated series “Star Wars: Tales of the Empire.”  The new series, which is the second installment of the “Tales” series, stylistically follows 2022’s critically acclaimed “Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi.”   

 

“Tales of the Empire” launches exclusively on Disney+ on Star Wars Day, May 4, with all six episodes.

 

Star Wars: Tales of the Empire” is a six-episode journey into the fearsome Galactic Empire through the eyes of two warriors on divergent paths, set during different eras. After losing everything, young Morgan Elsbeth navigates the expanding Imperial world toward a path of vengeance, while former Jedi Barriss Offee does what she must to survive a rapidly changing galaxy. The choices they make will define their destinies.

 

The talented voice cast includes Diana Lee Inosanto (Morgan Elsbeth), Meredith Salenger (Barriss Offee), Rya Kihlstedt (Lyn aka Fourth Sister), Wing T. Chao (Wing), Lars Mikkelsen (Thrawn), Jason Isaacs (Grand Inquisitor) and Matthew Wood (General Grievous).

 

Dave Filoni created the series and is the supervising director. He is also an executive producer along with Athena Yvette Portillo and Carrie Beck. Josh Rimes serves as co-executive producer and Alex Spotswood is the senior producer.      

 

“ALIEN: ROMULUS” TEASER TRAILER AND POSTER

 



The teaser trailer and poster for a truly terrifying cinematic experience from producer Ridley Scott and director/writer Fede Alvarez, 20th Century Studios’ “Alien: Romulus,” is here! “Alien: Romulus” opens exclusively in theaters nationwide August 16, 2024.  

 

The sci-fi/horror-thriller takes the phenomenally successful “Alien” franchise back to its roots: While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. The film stars Cailee Spaeny (“Priscilla”), David Jonsson (“Agatha Christie’s Murder is Easy”), Archie Renaux (“Shadow and Bone”), Isabela Merced (“The Last of Us”), Spike Fearn (“Aftersun”), Aileen Wu. Fede Alvarez (“Evil Dead,” “Don’t Breathe”) directs from a screenplay he wrote with frequent collaborator Rodo Sayagues (“Don’t Breathe 2”) based on characters created by Dan O’Bannon and Ronald Shusett. “Alien: Romulus” is produced by Ridley Scott (“Napoleon”), who directed the original “Alien” and produced and directed the series’ entries “Prometheus” and “Alien: Covenant,” Michael Pruss (“Boston Strangler”), and Walter Hill (“Alien”), with Fede Alvarez, Elizabeth Cantillon (“Charlie’s Angels”), Brent O’Connor (“Bullet Train”), and Tom Moran (“Unstoppable”) serving as executive producers. 

DISNEY+ DEBUTS FIRST TRAILER FOR “STAR WARS: THE ACOLYTE”

 



Disney+ debuted the first trailer and key art for Lucasfilm’s new, original series “Star Wars: The Acolyte.”  The thrilling, live-action series launches on Tuesday, June 4, with the first two episodes, exclusively on Disney+.  

In “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” an investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge, they travel down a dark path where sinister forces reveal all is not what it seems….

 

The series stars Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Charlie Barnett, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo, and Carrie-Anne Moss.

 

Leslye Headland created the series, based on Star Wars by George Lucas, and serves as an executive producer along with Kathleen Kennedy, Simon Emanuel, Jeff F. King and Jason Micallef. Charmaine DeGraté and Kor Adana are the co-executive producers. Rayne Roberts, Damian Anderson, Eileen Shim and Rob Bredow are the producers.

 

Headland also directed the premiere episodes (Eps. 101 & 102). Directors Kogonada (Eps. 103 & 107), Alex Garcia Lopez (Eps. 104 & 105) and Hanelle Culpepper (Eps. 106 & 108) round out the directing duties on the series.

 

Award-winning composer Michael Abels, known for his work on “Get Out” and “Us,” scored Star Wars: The Acolyte.”

Sunday, March 24, 2024

4K Digital Review: All of Us Strangers

 


Adam (Andrew Scott) is a TV screenwriter living in London. He is not only struggling with his writing but still dealing with the loss of his parents at a very young age. One day the fire alarm goes off in his building and he makes eye contact with a handsome young neighbor named Harry (Paul Mescal). Shortly after this, Adam "sees" his parents. They see him as an adult but they appear to be the same age as when they died.

Adam then runs into Harry again and again. The two men spend quite a lot of time together and their relationship grows. At the same time Adam sees his parents more often and they get to know Adam as an adult. They accept him as a gay man, learn about his new love and help Adam learn to deal with his grief of losing them so many years ago.

Both Adam and Harry are lost souls that have found one another. Adam must learn to let go of his parents and live with that loss. Harry has his own secret and we may discover it by the end of the movie. 


Video:

The 4K digital streaming video is excellent. The colors are absolutely gorgeous here with beautiful details and true to life skin tones. 

Audio:

The audio mix is a solid 5.1 mix with very little surround activity. Dialogue is solid and the main part of the audio mix. 


Bonus Features:

Roots of The Story - taking a look at the creation of the film from book to screen and how the changes made for this version were personal to the director

Building Adam's World - adds to the first bonus feature by taking a look at scenes that were filmed in Haigh's childhood home


Conclusion:

Loss and grief play a huge part in this movie as does love and acceptance. This is a sad film and this film proves that loss has no timeline. But also in grief, you can  find beauty and this film proves it. 

All of Us Stranger is available now on digital and on HULU.


*The film was provided for review by Walt Disney Home Entertainment and my review is strictly my own opinion*

Saturday, March 9, 2024

ZOE SALDAÑA, SIGOURNEY WEAVER, AND KATE WINSLET FEATURED IN UNDERWATER ART CELEBRATING “AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER” AND SHOT BY CHRISTY LEE ROGERS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE NATURE CONSERVANCY

 


Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, and Kate Winslet, stars of 20th Century Studios’ “Avatar: The Way of Water,” posed for renowned underwater photographer Christy Lee Rogers for a series of photographs celebrating our oceans to raise funds to support The Nature Conservancy (TNC). 

 

James Cameron, the film’s producer/director/writer, is a long-time supporter of ocean conservation. Rogers created these artworks in her unique style, breaking usual conventions and shooting the actresses through the play of light refracting through the water to evoke the feel of a painting.

 

Cameron said: “I have long admired Christy’s art and began collecting her works several years ago. Her unique style of shooting her subjects underwater naturally inspired me to suggest she do a special shoot with our cast.”

 

The artwork will be launched online on March 8, 2024, as four  limited edition, museum quality photographs signed by Rogers, as well as a series of high-quality prints both signed by Rogers and unsigned, available for purchase through Fraser Scott at A Gallery Artists Ltd. via  Rogers’ website at  www.christyleerogers.com/avatar.


“Offering these unique pieces of art to benefit The Nature Conservancy through the “Avatar: The Way of Water’s” ‘Keep Our Oceans Amazing’ campaign is a perfect synergy, and we were excited to collaborate with Christy,” added producer Jon Landau.

 

In celebration of “Avatar: The Way of Water,” Disney and “Avatar” launched a global “Keep Our Oceans Amazing” campaign to raise awareness of the challenges facing oceans and marine life. The campaign supports TNC and its work to protect 10 of our oceans’ amazing animals and their habitats, connected to the beauty of Pandora. This art sale is one of many ways fans can help TNC reach its goal, as 100 percent of net proceeds from the art sales will go to TNC and help protect our oceans. To learn more, visit:  www.nature.org/disney

 

Christy Lee Rogers said: “Water is healing – it’s life itself. And as the provider of life – oxygen to all through tiny phytoplankton, our oceans need our care more than ever right now. It is a great honor to be able to help James Cameron, Jon Landau, and the ‘Avatar’ and Disney teams in realizing that dream of clean and protected world oceans – through the release of these images for The Nature Conservancy.” 


“Healthy oceans are vital to the health of the planet and all living things, including people. Oceans are 90 percent of the habitable planet and home to more than half of all life on earth; they provide livelihoods for billions of people, produce the food we eat and half the air we breathe,” said Melissa Garvey, global director of ocean protection at The Nature Conservancy. “Through the work of Christy Lee Rogers and the support of Disney and ‘Avatar,’ we can shape a brighter future where people and nature can thrive—ensuring healthier oceans for all.”

 

20th Century Studios’ “Avatar: The Way of Water,” nominated for four Academy Awards® including best picture, is filmmaker James Cameron’s highly acclaimed first follow-up to his 2009 blockbuster hit “Avatar.” Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar: The Way of Water” begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure. Directed by James Cameron and produced by Cameron and Jon Landau, the Lightstorm Entertainment Production stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Kate Winslet. The screenplay is by James Cameron & Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver. The story is by James Cameron & Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver & Josh Friedman & Shane Salerno. David Valdes and Richard Baneham serve as the film’s executive producers.



Trailer and Poster for Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2”— New Characters/Voice Cast Announced

 



A new trailer and poster are now available for Disney and Pixar’s upcoming theatrical release, “Inside Out 2,” which welcomes new Emotions to now-teenager Riley’s mind. Joining Joy (voice of Amy Poehler), Anger (voice of Lewis Black), Sadness (voice of Phyllis Smith), Fear (voice of Tony Hale) and Disgust (voice of Liza Lapira) is a group of Emotions perfectly suited for the teenage years. 

Maya Hawke voices Anxiety, the previously announced new arrival bound to shake up everything in headquarters and beyond. A bundle of frazzled energy, Anxiety enthusiastically ensures Riley’s prepared for every possible negative outcome. 

Envy, voice of Ayo Edebiri, may be small but she sure knows what she wants. She’s perpetually jealous of everything everyone else has, and she’s not afraid to pine over it. 

Ennui, who’s voiced by Adèle Exarchopoulos, couldn’t care less. Bored and lethargic with a well-practiced eye-roll, Ennui adds the perfect amount of teenage apathy to Riley’s personality, when she feels like it. 

Embarrassment, voiced by Paul Walter Hauser, likes to lay low, which isn’t easy for this burly guy with a bright blush-pink complexion. 

 

Additionally, Kensington Tallman lends her voice to Riley Andersen, who’s about to begin high school. Lilimar was called on to voice Valentina “Val” Ortiz, a high school hockey player who everyone, including Riley and her friends, looks up to. Diane Lane and Kyle MacLachlan return to voice Riley’s mom and dad; Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green and Grace Lu provide the voices for Riley’s besties; and Yvette Nicole Brown voices Coach Roberts, who heads up a summer hockey camp. The voice cast also includes Sarayu Blue, Flea, Ron Funches, Dave Goelz, James Austin Johnson, Bobby Moynihan, Frank Oz, Paula Pell, Paula Poundstone, John Ratzenberger, Kendall Coyne Schofield, June Squibb, Kirk Thatcher and Yong Yea.

TRAILER FOR “TAYLOR SWIFT | THE ERAS TOUR (TAYLOR’S VERSION) ” AVAILABLE NOW

 



The trailer for “Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version)” is here! The concert film from the 14-time GRAMMY®-winning artist in its entirety for the first time, which includes the song “cardigan” and four additional acoustic songs, will debut exclusively on Disney+ one day early, Thursday, March 14, at 6:00pm PT.

 

The history-making, cinematic experience, “Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour” directed by Sam Wrench, grossed more than $260 million worldwide at the global box office, making it the top selling concert film of all-time.

DISNEY UNVEILS FIRST LOOK FOR “TRON: ARES”—IN PRODUCTION NOW

 


Disney released the exciting first look at “TRON: Ares,” the highly anticipated, new installment in the groundbreaking “TRON” franchise. The film started production in January in Vancouver and is slated for release in 2025.

 

“TRON: Ares” is a follow-up to Disney’s 1982 seminal science fiction film “TRON” and the 2010 sequel, “TRON: Legacy.”

 

Joachim Rønning directs “TRON: Ares” and says, “I’m excited to be part of the TRON franchise and bring this new film to fans around the world. ‘TRON: Ares’ builds upon the legacy of cutting-edge design, technology and storytelling. Now more than ever, it feels like the right time to return to the Grid.” 

 

“TRON: Ares” follows a highly sophisticated Program, Ares, who is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, marking humankind’s first encounter with A.I. beings.

 

The feature film stars Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Evan Peters, Hasan Minhaj, Jodie Turner-Smith, Arturo Castro, Cameron Monaghan, with Gillian Anderson.

 

Sean Bailey, Jeffrey Silver, Justin Springer, Jared Leto, Emma Ludbrook and Steven Lisberger are the producers, with Russell Allen serving as executive producer.

Sunday, February 25, 2024

4K Digital Review of Disney's Wish

 

Wish is an all-original fairytale celebrating the 100th Anniversary of The Walt Disney Company. This film is the story of the start of the legacy of Disney Animation with a heroine coming face-to-face with a wishing star.

Asha (Ariana DeBose) loves the Kingdom of Rosas so much that there isn't anything she wouldn't do for it or for its citizens. This is why she might be the perfect person to be the apprentice to King Magnifico (Chris Pine), a sorcerer who has the power to grant the utmost wish of each of its citizens. He also keeps each citizens most valuable wish in his care. Once Asha learns that Magnifico has no plans to grant all the wishes and she decides to take matters into her own hands. At her wishing tree, as Asha looks up to the stars, she makes a wish and a star appears.

Now, with Star, the wishing star, Asha and her friends must stop Magnifico and return the wishes to the citizens. This fun-filled, musical movie is a perfect way to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of The Walt Disney Company.


Video:

The 4K streaming video looks amazing. The very look of the film is very unique and has a layered look to it. The colors, the depth and the animation give the film a 3-D effect. The level of detail is picture perfect. Another wonderful transfer from Disney.


Audio:

The Dolby Atmos audio mix is superb here. The dialogue is crisp and clear here. The atmospheric sounds surround you. The songs soar here and the voices resonate through the speakers and wisely fill the environment through the surround channels. 

Bonus Features:

  • Sing Along With The Movie – Sing along with your favorite songs while watching the movie with on-screen lyrics.
  • Once Upon A Studio (8:48) – Beloved characters from Disney Animation’s 100 years come together for an unforgettable reunion.
  • 100 Years In The Making (1:04:15) – The Inside story on the making of Wish
    • What Makes Disney, Disney (6:38) – Learn what makes a Disney film and its characters so distinct, memorable and beloved. Discover how Asha and WISH are quintessentially Disney — from the extraordinary challenges Asha must overcome, to the magical, Kingdom of Rosa
    • The Wish Equation (9:28) – What is a wish? Join the filmmakers for a surprising conversation as they break down the "Wish Equation," discuss the "rules of magic," and describe the role music plays in Disney films. Then hear Julia Michaels' own original demo of "This Wish."
    • Looking Backward To Go Forward (8:42) – Walk the aisles of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library as the filmmakers "draw" inspiration from 100 years of animation. Learn about the "Pinocchio test," and how Wish's design blends new technology with classic techniques.
    • Where Dreams And Reality Collide (2:22) – Discover the times and places that were the inspiration for Rosas and helped build the world of this original fairy tale.
    • Asha Means Wish (7:52) – Learn all about Asha, from her inspired design to her boundless determination and generosity. Uncover the subtle symbolism in her jewelry, and dive into her dancing skills. See how she’s imperfectly perfect and what makes her a memorable Disney hero.
    • The Return Of The Disney Villain (7:44) – You'll love to hate King Magnifico when you uncover his secrets. Find out what makes him the classic Disney villain — and why he doesn't wear a crown.
    • Star Is Born (8:19) – Uncover early concept drawings to see how Star evolved into Asha's lovable wish facilitator. Learn about Star's sparkles, and why Star can communicate with Asha and the other characters.
    • Those Who Stand Beside Me (4:47) – Learn more about Asha's closest allies, Dahlia and Valentino. Find out which of Snow White's seven companions served as inspiration for Dahlia, and how Valentino breaks one of the rules of Disney animals.
    • When Wishes Come True (8:25) – Get to know the kids inside the filmmakers as the creators of WISH reflect on what Disney movies meant to them growing up, and what it's like being part of the Disney legacy today.
  • WISH D-Classified (6:27) – WISH is filled with references and nods to other Disney films from the studio's 100-year legacy. From hidden Mickeys to more subtle tributes, you may have caught many of them, but check out this "D-Classified” piece for ones you may have missed.
  • Outtakes (2:44) – Step inside the recording booth with the brilliant and talented actors of WISH for some creative fun as they bring their characters to life.
  • Deleted Song “A Wish Worth Making” (2:54) – Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn introduce this poignant song sung by Saba Sabino (voiced by Victor Garber) expressing what it’s like to be reunited with your one true wish.
  • Deleted Scenes (22:06) – Check out some scenes that didn't make the Final Cut.
    • Magnifico's Secret (4:27)
    • The Wishing Tree (3:54)
    • To Rosas (5:02)
    • Finding Flazino (4:48)
    • Valentino Is A Star (3:27)
  • Song Selection – Jump to your favorite musical moments, with on-screen lyrics.
    • Welcome to Rosas (2:20)
    • At All Costs (3:00)
    • This Wish (3:18)
    • I’m A Star (3:18)
    • This Is The Thanks I Get?! (3:16)
    • Knowing What I Know Now (3:18)
    • This Wish (Reprise) (2:48)


Conclusion:

For me, Wish delivered on what I expected for an animated film celebrating the 100th Anniversary of The Walt Disney Company. A classic animated film that while honoring the past, paves the way for the future. A wealth of bonus material felt like the glory days of Disney animation Blu-ray. A must addition to your library.

Wish is available on digital now and on DVD, Blu-ray and 4K Ultra-HD on March 12th.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of review and the review is strictly my own opinion*

4K Digital Review: Next Goal Wins

 


Based on the true story of the 2001 American Samoa soccer team that lost to Australia 31-0 in the World Cup. Over the next ten years, American Samoa never scored one goal in any international match, making them the worst ranked national team in the FIFA World rankings. 

The US Soccer Federation, in a last ditch effort to save the team, sends in washed-up soccer coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender). The team is worse off than feared with leadership issues including a coach who doesn't want to be there. But over time, everyone slowly comes together as a team and a family. 


Video:

The streaming 4K video is another wonderful transfer from Disney. The details in the textures and facial features are excellent. Colors are vibrant especially when it comes to the scenery from the tropical jungle to the beaches and ocean. 


Audio:

The Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 is fairly solid. As always, the dialogue is crisp and clear. There isn't a lot from the surround channels until later in the movie during the big game. 


Bonus Features:


Featurette

  • Creating The Pitch of Life - Explore filmmaker Taika Waititi’s loving homage to American Samoa, Polynesian culture, and the sports movie in this delightfully entertaining short-form documentary.  See what it took to make a winning movie about the losingest soccer team in the world.

 

Deleted Scene

  • Priest Blessing the Team4K

Conclusion:

A very entertaining movie that I want to see more from Disney. The great family movie in the sports genre is what has been missing from Disney in a long time. This fits right in with Cool Runnings, The Rookie and the like. Great video and audio quality as we have come to expect from Disney. And fun bonus features to round off a welcomed addition to your library.

Next Goal Wins is currently out on digital and on February 27th on Blu-ray and DVD.

*The film was provided for the sole purpose of review by Walt Disney Home Entertainment and the review is strictly my opinion*



Tuesday, February 20, 2024

4K Digital Review: The Marvels

 



Picking up right after the Disney+ series Ms. Marvel ends off, comes The Marvels. We get three superheroes, Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel (Brie Larson), Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) and Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel (Iman Vellani) who find their powers intertwined by Dar-Benn (Zawe Ashton). Dar-Benn has found the second quantum band and is using it to destroy planets so she can save hers. Our superheroes have to learn to work together to stop Dar-Benn.

The chemistry between the three superheroes is fantastic and really moves the movie along. Sadly, the movie suffers from another one-dimensional villain. And we get a very entertaining film that not a lot of people came out to see in theaters.  


Video:

The streaming 4K video is another fantastic effort from Disney. The colors are bright and bold with inky blacks. Details are excellent, from clothing textures, to Goose's fur, to skin tones. 


Audio:

The Dolby Atmos audio mix is solid! Dialogue is crisp and clear throughout the movie. Surrounds are very active, especially with the sounds of explosions during action sequences and the soundtrack.

Bonus Features:


FEATURETTES

·       Entangled - Take a cosmic trip behind the scenes on The Marvels with the cast and crew of the film. Learn how director Nia DaCosta and the team took on such a vast production, and dive deeper with more details about Marvel’s first ever musical number.

·       The Production Diaries – Experience the lively, upbeat set of The Marvels as cast and crew recall candid and heartwarming moments, along with hilarious anecdotes.

 

DELETED SCENES

·       Captain-in-Residence – Kamala finds herself in Carol's ship after an unexpected switch and incredulously picks up a call from Valkyrie.

·       It's Under Control – Carol, Kamala, and Monica find themselves brainstorming for solutions on Aladna.

Space Yoga – Muneeba teaches yoga while an exasperated Nick Fury looks on.

·       The Chase – Chaos ensues as Ty-Rone chases Kamala in a tension-filled scene.

 

GAG REEL

·       Watch some hilarious outtakes on set with the cast and crew of The Marvels.

 

AUDIO COMMENTARY

·       Listen to co-writer/director Nia DaCosta and VFX Supervisor Tara DeMarco talk about the film.



Conclusion:

A fun, entertaining film with a lot of bonus features. A welcomed addition to your library! 

The Marvel is available on digital, DVD, Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD now!

*The review copy was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of review and the review is strictly my own opinion*

      


Monday, February 19, 2024

Marvel Animation’s “X-Men ‘97” Streams on Disney+ Beginning March 20

 


A trailer and teaser poster are now available to celebrate the upcoming Disney+ debut of Marvel Animation’s “X-Men ’97.” The all-new series, which features 10 episodes, begins streaming March 20. 

 

“X-Men’97” revisits the iconic era of the 1990s as The X-Men, a band of mutants who use their uncanny gifts to protect a world that hates and fears them, are challenged like never before, forced to face a dangerous and unexpected new future. The voice cast includes Ray Chase as Cyclops, Jennifer Hale as Jean Grey, Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm, Cal Dodd as Wolverine, JP Karliak as Morph, Lenore Zann as Rogue, George Buza as Beast, AJ LoCascio as Gambit, Holly Chou as Jubilee, Isaac Robinson-Smith as Bishop, Matthew Waterson as Magneto and Adrian Hough as Nightcrawler. Beau DeMayo serves as head writer; episodes are directed by Jake Castorena, Chase Conley and Emi Yonemura. Featuring music by The Newton Brothers, the series is executive produced by Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso and DeMayo.




Sunday, February 11, 2024

MARVEL STUDIOS DEBUTS FIRST TRAILER & POSTER FOR “DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE” DURING BIG GAME

 


Today during the Big Game, Marvel Studios released the first trailer for the highly anticipated “DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE.” The trailer, poster and trailer stills are all available now to share with your readers.

 

Shawn Levy directs “DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE” which stars Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Karan Soni, and Matthew Macfadyen.

 

Kevin Feige, Ryan Reynolds, Shawn Levy and Lauren Shuler Donner produce with Louis D’Esposito, Wendy Jacobson, Mary McLaglen, Josh McLaglen, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, George Dewey, Simon Kinberg and Jonathon Komack Martin serving as executive producers. “DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE” is written by Ryan Reynolds & Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick & Zeb Wells & Shawn Levy.

 

Marvel Studios’ “DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE” opens in U.S. & Canadian movie theaters on July 26, and will be available in IMAX, RealD 3D, Dolby Cinema, 4DX, Cinemark XD and premium screens everywhere.


Tuesday, January 9, 2024

“THE MANDALORIAN & GROGU” JOURNEYS TO THE BIG SCREEN

 


The Mandalorian and Grogu are embarking on a new adventure—to movie theaters. Directed by Jon Favreau, and produced by Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy and Dave Filoni, this new chapter in the Mandalorian and Grogu’s journey will go into production in 2024.  

“I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created. The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting,” Favreau shared.  

Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm, added, “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.” 

“The Mandalorian & Grogu” will lead Lucasfilm’s ongoing feature-development slate, which includes films helmed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, James Mangold and Dave Filoni, who is also currently developing “Ahsoka” Season 2, among those in the works.

This news was first announced on www.starwars.com.

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

4K Digital Review of Avatar: The Way of Water Collector's Edition

 


Avatar: The Way of Water is set 15 years after the events of the first film. Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) along with their kids find themselves leaving their home in the forest after the humans have returned to strip the planet of its natural resources. The family finds itself seeking shelter with the water Metkayina clan. 

All of this against the breathtaking backdrop of Pandora, where audiences are introduced to new Na’vi cultures and a range of exotic sea creatures that populate the majestic oceans. 

Nominated for numerous Academy Awards® including Best Picture, the James Cameron-directed film became the third highest-grossing box office film of all-time and set a new benchmark for visual effects. Produced by Cameron and his longtime partner Jon Landau, the Lightstorm Entertainment production stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis and Kate Winslet. Joining the illustrious adult cast are talented newcomers Britain Dalton, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Bailey Bass and Jack Champion.

Video:

The digital 4K UHD transfer is stunning and your TV screen or projection screen will leap to life in the world of Pandora. The colors just simple pop off the screen. The film looks its very best in 3D but the digital download is in 2D only. Hopefully there will be a Blu-Ray 3D version since 4K UHD has no 3D option and so far there are no streaming services that support 4K 3D. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack takes full advantage of your speakers. The dialogue is crisp and clear. Environmental effects such as wind and rain sound like they are coming overhead, gun shots ricochet from every direction and explosions create debris that flies all around us. The soundtrack is glorious and deserves to be heard in surround sound.  

Bonus Features

NEW:

  • Behind-the-Scenes Presentation Hosted by Jon Landau – Join Jon Landau as he takes you behind the scenes of the making of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER and discover the groundbreaking techniques used to bring audiences back to Pandora.
  • Memories from AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER – Producer Jon Landau joins Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang in a conversation about their experiences and insights coming back to Pandora 13 years later in AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER.
  • Production Design Panel Hosted by Jon Landau – Uncover the inspiration behind the new designs of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER with the award-winning Production Design team in this conversation hosted by Jon Landau.
  • Deleted/Extended Scenes – Check out these scenes that didn't make the final cut.
  • User's Guide for Viewing AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER Deleted Scenes and Extended Cuts with Unfinished Shots
    • Date Night (Extended Cut)
    • Crashed Samson Tiltrotor (Extended Cut)
    • Goodbye Mo’at
    • Neytiri Rides an Ilu
    • Spider Mocks the Recoms
    • Neytiri Spearfishes
    • Learning Montage
    • Ardmore and Quaritch Discuss Jake (Extended Cut)
    • Ta’unui Village (Extended Cut)
    • The Tulkun Hunt (Extended Cut)
    • Scoresby and Garvin Rescued
    • Parents from Hell and Standoff (Extended Cut)

Scene Deconstruction – View these scenes in various production stages: final with picture-in-picture reference, template and performance capture.

  • Quaritch Wakes Up in His New Body
  • The Return to High Camp
  • High Camp Biolab
  • Quaritch and Ardmore Discuss Their Mission
  • Jake and Neytiri Argue
  • First Swim
  • Lo’ak Meets Payakan
  • Jake and Kiri Dock Talk
  • Death Rock
  • Spider Finds Quaritch Underwater and Saves Him
  • Spider Drags Quaritch to Land but Leaves Him

Production Materials

  • “One Meal a Day” – James Cameron discusses the on-set initiative to eat one vegan meal a day.
  • Editing – Learn, step by step, how the editing team transformed reference camera footage into the compelling narrative of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER.
  • 3D Technology – Learn how the production team pushed 3D technology to new depths in this behind-the-scenes featurette.
  • Virtual Camera – Join Richard Baneham, Oscar®-winning visual effects supervisor, and the visual effects team as they discuss the virtual camera's role in the production process.
  • Bringing the RDA to Life – Join James Cameron, Jon Landau, David Vickery and the ILM team for a look at the visual effects created for the opening sequences of the film.
  • Tank Timelapse – Watch the building of the underwater performance capture tank in this timelapse video.
  • Wētā Reel – VFX breakdown of shots by Wētā Effects.
  • ILM Reel – VFX breakdown of shots by ILM.
  • CJ Jones Sign Language Guide – Learn the basics of the Metkayina sign language from creator CJ Jones.
  • JackCam – Join Jack Champion ("Spider") as he interviews cast and crew on the set of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER.
  • Shaman Blessing – A Brazilian shaman blesses the production of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER.
  • Cliff Curtis Blessings – Actor Cliff Curtis gives Maori blessings for the cast and crew of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER.

Beyond the Big Screen

  • Pandora – The World of AVATAR – Discover the story behind the artistry and imagination of Pandora – the World of AVATAR at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
  • Crew Movie – AVATAR – The Way of the Jimverse – Join producer Jon Landau on an animated adventure across the Jimverse to restore order and save the world of Pandora.
  • James Cameron and Jon Landau Hand and Footprint Ceremony – See James Cameron and Jon Landau honored with a hand and footprint ceremony in front of the world-famous Chinese Theater in Hollywood, CA.
  • “Scene at the Academy” – Check out this Academy featurette for AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER, diving into a key moment from the film.

Archives: Script, Artwork, Marketing

  • Monday Night Football TV Spot – Watch the TV spot broadcast exclusively during ESPN's "Monday Night Football."

Archives: Script, Artwork, Marketing – Dive into the AVATAR Archives with these exclusive behind-the- scenes production assets.

ADDITIONAL BONUS:

Inside Pandora's Box – A series of featurettes on the challenges facing cast and crew as filmmakers devise new technologies to push the limits of cinema.

  • Building the World of Pandora – James Cameron and a team of talented artists combine years of research with their design skills to build the world of Pandora with new characters, creatures, indigenous clans, underwater environments and the take-no-prisoners hard-tech world of the RDA.
  • Capturing Pandora – James Cameron’s approach to performance capture has the cast performing in a volume rigged with infrared cameras to capture their movement, and head rig cameras to capture emotion on their faces with only the boundaries of imagination to limit them.
  • The Undersea World of Pandora – Co-production designer Dylan Cole and his team conceive of the marine creatures required for Avatar: The Way of Water while James Cameron and his stunt team devise extraordinary means to bring those creatures to life in a performance capture tank.
  • The Challenges of Pandora's Waters – James Cameron tackles the “non-trivial challenge” of performance capture above and below the water’s surface, utilizing a wave machine and current generator to reproduce ocean conditions, and underwater vehicles to replicate creature movement.
  • Pandora’s Returning Characters – James Cameron reunites with his returning cast – Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang. Together they discuss the amazing evolution of their characters in Avatar: The Way of Water.
  • Pandora’s Next Generation – Meet the talented young newcomers who have been cast as the next generation of Na’vi and follow them through the adventure of making Avatar: The Way of Water.
  • Spider's Web – James Cameron introduced the human character of Spider into the fabric of Pandora – thus creating a host of technological challenges on set…and an incredible journey for the young actor, Jack Champion.
  • Becoming Na’vi – The Avatar cast is immersed in the culture of the indigenous Na’vi, living off the land in the Hawaiian rainforest and training in a multitude of disciplines in preparation for their roles.
  • The Reef People of Pandora – In true James Cameron-style, the Metkayina reef clan has been developed with great attention to detail, bearing unique evolutionary traits and a culture – with new dwellings, new clothes and different way of life – all a result of living off the ocean.
  • Bringing Pandora to Life – Once James Cameron completes his virtual production process, every sequence is turned over to Wētā FX to bring Pandora to life – with unprecedented advancements in facial performance, environments and making CG water look real.
  • The RDA Returns to Pandora – Co-production designer Ben Procter and his team present an armada of new vehicles and human technologies that the RDA brings to Pandora – in concept design and with practical builds.
  • The New Characters of Pandora – Meet the important new characters of the Avatar saga played by Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Edie Falco, Brendan Cowell and Jemaine Clement.
  • The Sounds of Pandora – Hear how James Cameron worked with composer Simon Franglen to create the distinctive music of The Way of Water while building on James Horner’s brilliant score for Avatar, and learn how Chris Boyes created the immersive sounds of Pandora.
  • New Zealand – Pandora’s Home – The production of the Avatar sequels is so thoroughly ensconced in New Zealand that James Cameron considers The Way of Water a “New Zealand film.” Hear reflections from the cast and crew, including the remarkable New Zealand crew, on making the film.

More from Pandora's Box – Additional featurettes that highlight special teams within the production

  • Casting – Discover the screen tests that won the talented young cast their roles in Avatar: The Way of Water.
  • Stunts – The Avatar stunt team isn’t just creating breathtaking action, they’re driving the story. From racing underwater on ilus, flying the skies on ikrans, to maneuvering RDA speed boats, the stunt team leaves you breathless and wanting more.
  • The Lab – Explore the Lightstorm Lab, the backbone of virtual production for the Avatar films. Comprised of specialized teams, the Lab builds & supports every aspect of the production – environments, motion edit, Kabuki, sequence, post-viz and software development.
  • The Troupe – Avatar’s Troupe is the Swiss Army Knife of acting, while playing dozens of roles on set, in the performance capture volume and on live-action sets, they bring life to Na’vi clans and RDA Recoms. They also play Na’vi-scale puppets on the live-action sets.

Marketing Materials & Music Video – Marketing materials used to build audience awareness of the film

  • Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength) Music Video – Multi Grammy-winning, music superstar, The Weeknd, performs his emotionally packed end title song in the official music video for the smash hit “Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength).”
  • Theatrical Trailers 1 & 2 – Avatar: The Way of Water used two theatrical trailers to engage the audience. The first was a teaser trailer released 7 months before the film. The second was a standard trailer that premiered 5 weeks before the film’s release.
Conclusion:

Avatar: The Way of Water is a feast for the senses. The action, adventure and special effects make this a film where James Cameron is at his very best. The video and audio quality are flawless. The wealth of bonus features is exceptional here. A must have for your library. Avatar: The Way of Water is available for digital download and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray now.

*The digital code was offered for review by Walt Disney Home Entertainment and the review is strictly my opinion.*