Teaser Trailer and Poster for "Whalefall" an Epic and Emotional Survival Thriller

 

20th Century Studios and Imagine Entertainment released a thrilling first look at “Whalefall.” The epic and emotional survival thriller about one young man’s encounter with a massive sperm whale opens exclusively in theaters October 16.

 

The film, which is directed by Brian Duffield and features a screenplay by Brian Duffield & Daniel Kraus based on the book by Daniel Kraus by the same name, stars Austin Abrams, Josh Brolin, Elisabeth Shue, John Ortiz, Jane Levy, Emily Rudd. The producers are Brian Grazer, Brian Duffield, Jeb Brody, Allan Mandelbaum, with Doug Merrifield, Richard Abate, Will Rowbotham serving as executive producers.

 

Following the death of his father (Josh Brolin), Jay Gardiner (Austin Abrams) goes diving off the central Coast of California in search of his remains, but is swallowed by a massive sperm whale. While trapped inside its belly with only one hour of oxygen left, Jay comes to realize that the hard-earned lessons his father imparted may be the key to his escape.

 

Last night, star Austin Abrams and director/co-writer/producer Brian Duffield were at the Regal Sherman Oaks Galleria for a special 4DX preview of the trailer, offering journalists and guests a one-of-a-kind immersive experience.

NEW TRAILER AND POSTER FOR VISIONARY DIRECTOR RIDLEY SCOTT’S “THE DOG STARS”

 

A new trailer and poster for visionary director Ridley Scott’s “The Dog Stars” is here. The film, a riveting, epic thriller set in a world where survival is instinct, but humanity is a choice, opens exclusively in theaters August 28.

 

Based on Peter Heller’s captivating bestseller, “The Dog Stars” features a critically acclaimed ensemble, including Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, Allison Janney, Benedict Wong, and Guy Pearce. The screenplay is by Mark L. Smith, based upon the novel by Peter Heller, and the producers are Ridley Scott, p.g.a., Michael Pruss, p.g.a., Mark L. Smith, and Cliff Roberts, p.g.a., with Lily Brooks-Dalton, Brandon Scott Smith, Peter Heller, Aidan Elliott serving as executive producers.

 

The film tells the story of Hig (Jacob Elordi), a young pilot who, together with a military survivalist, Bangley (Josh Brolin), has carved out an efficient but isolated homestead in a brutal post-apocalyptic world. But when Hig receives a mysterious radio transmission, he ventures into the unknown in search of the hope and humanity he still believes exist. 

“ICE AGE: BOILING POINT” TEASER TRAILER AND POSTER

 

An all-new teaser trailer and poster are now available for “Ice Age: Boiling Point,” the highly anticipated next chapter in the iconic herd’s prehistoric misadventures.

 

The teaser trailer shows Manny (voice of Ray Romano), Diego (voice of Denis Leary), Sid (voice of John Leguizamo), Buck (voice of Simon Pegg) and Ellie (voice of Queen Latifah) – along with acorn-obsessed Scrat, Crash, Eddie and Baby Scrat – as they blast out of a volcano and straight into a dinosaur-and-lava-filled madcap adventure to visit never-before-seen corners of the treacherous Lost World.

 

“Ice Age: Boiling Point” is directed by John Donkin (“The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild”) and produced by Lori Forte (“Ice Age,” “Ice Age: Collision Course”). The film releases exclusively in theaters February 5, 2027.

4K Digital Review of Fight Club

 

Fight Club is one of those few films that literally demand repeat viewings. There is so much to process and take in. The film has many layers that you can take apart with each new viewing. On the surface the film works as a dark comedy on the grip that consumerism has on Edward Norton's character. Then you take in Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt), who is so emptied out by modern life that he needs to reinvent himself as someone worth being. 

It is very interesting how the film almost predicted the effects on mental health caused by consumerism. It also eerily predicted male loneliness by looking at how society literally causes men to feel isolated, alone and insecure.

Still a powerful film about individuality and self-worth that still hits hard nearly 30 years after its release. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is reference-quality. This is a full restoration and remaster of the original 35mm film. Most of the movie takes place mostly at night and the blacks are inky. Details are razor sharp from skin tones, to cloth and outdoor features such as streets and buildings. Colors are rich and vibrant and pop off the screen. This is the best that Fight Club has looked on any format. 

Audio:

The audio here appears to have been remastered as well. Sadly the dialogue is at a lower volume than the music and the effects. There are a few times it is hard to make out the dialogue.  The rest of the audio mix is flawless and near reference-quality. The score combined with the atmospheric sounds creates an immersive surround environment. 

Bonus Features:

There are no bonus features on the digital version. 

Conclusion:

This cult psychological thriller is stunning on digital but sadly has no bonus material. If you need this to look and sound like never before then this is the version for you.

Fight Club is available now on digital.

*This film was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Psycho Killer

 

Psycho Killer is directed by Gavin Palone and has a great cast featuring Georgina Campbell, James Preston Rogers (as the Satanic Slasher) and the legendary Malcolm McDowell. It runs in a very quick paced 91 minutes. 

On the surface, the film seems like your run-of-the-mill horror movie. A person is seeking revenge for the death of a loved one. This is not reinventing the wheel but they do have a different take on the lead character. Jane Archer (Georgina Campbell) is a Kansas highway patrol officer who is also expecting. Her husband Mike (Stephen Adekolu) has been killed and she is out to hunt down his killer. She finds out the killer is a notorious serial killer called the Satanic Slasher, who has ties to a mansion owned by Mr. Pendleton (Malcolm McDowell). 

The movie falls apart with something that should have made for a different take on the genre. We focus on Jane and the Satanic Slashers motivations to complete their mission. This should have made for an incredible movie, but instead is edited down to try to create a fierce pace but forgets about plot points that never get resolved. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is very crisp as to be expected. Details are sharp and clear. It is a very dark movie so the blacks are inky. 

Audio:

The 5.1 audio mix is good. Dialogue is clear from the front channels. The score and atmospheric sounds fill the surround speakers. 

Bonus Features:

 There are no bonus features.

Conclusion:

The 4K video is crisp and the audio mix creates the horror atmosphere but the lack of story makes this a one-time watch if you are into horror films.

Psycho Killer is now available on digital.

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

4K Digital Review of Avatar: Fire and Ash

 

The world of Pandora has returned once again in Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third film in the Avatar franchise from James Cameron. Avatar: Fire and Ash is now available on digital. It will be available on DVD, 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray and 4K UHD on May 16th. 

In this third film, we find Jake and Neytiri still mourning the loss of their oldest son. At the same time, there is a new threat, the Metkayina clan, also known as the Ash people. Their leader, the ruthless Varang, has moved away from the peaceful way of the Eywa, and instead has moved to the way of fire and violence. Joining the cause of the Ash people, the RDA helps them to fight the rest of the clans.  

This is a much darker story than the previous films. We see how the different clans interact and clash with one another. We also see the focus on the younger generation of Na'vi. The constant danger in the world and seen through the yes of the children gives the film real emotional heart. What will happen to the Sully family as well as the fate of the clans?  

Video:

The streaming 4K video is close to reference quality. You can see how the details such as ultra-realistic skin textures and clothing have vastly improved over the last two films. Colors are vibrant from the jungle, to the ocean and the volcanic areas. This is a new standard for CG and will be something you show off your 4K TV with.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos 5.1 audio mix is solid and compliments the amazing video. The mix makes incredible use of the surround channels to immerse you into the world of Pandora. 

Bonus Features:

English Family Audio Track (3:17:09) – All objectionable language removed.

Igniting The Flame: The Making of Avatar: Fire and Ash Play All (2:55:40)

1. Writing the Sequels (13:38)
2. Pandora Design (18:33)
3. RDA Design (18:38)
4. The Women of Pandora (11:40)
5. Varang and the Mangkwan (15:40)
6. Capturing Performance (16:44)
7. Stunts (13:04)
8. Editing and Virtual Camera (7:42)
9. WETA FX (16:45)
10. ILM (7:41)
11. Score (13:32)
12. The Art and Impact of 3D (10:04)
13. Home in New Zealand (12:01)

Jon Landau Tribue (21:40)

RDA Orientation Play All (13:39)

1. Na’vi 101: The RDA’s Official Language Orientation (5:06)
2. Pandora Intelligence Brief (8:32)

Marketing Materials & Music Video Play All (8:35)

1. “Dream As One” Music Video – Miley Cyrus (3:31)
2. Theatrical Trailer 1 (2:27)
3. Theatrical Trailer 2 (2:37)

Conclusion: 

Avatar: Fire and Ask continues the epic story of family and survival. It also continues to push the visuals and audio. With hours of bonus features to accompany an already three hour and fifteen minutes movie, this is a welcome addition to your library if you are a fan of the Avatar franchise. 

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the sole purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

“THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2” ATTEND FILM’S WORLD PREMIERE AT LINCOLN CENTER’S DAVID GEFFEN HALL

 

For the first time ever, the star-studded ensemble cast from “The Devil Wears Prada 2” reunited at the David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center earlier this evening for the film’s world premiere. Cast and filmmakers in attendance included Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Kenneth Branagh, Justin Theroux, Lucy Liu, Simone Ashley, Caleb Hearon, Helen J. Shen, B.J. Novak, and Patrick Brammall, director David Frankel, screenwriter/executive producer Aline Brosh McKenna, producer Wendy Finerman, executive producers Michael Bederman and Karen Rosenfelt and costume designer Molly Rogers.

 

They were joined by global fashion icon and recording artist Lady Gaga and guests from the worlds of fashion and music, including Marc Jacobs, Law Roach, Brunello Cucinelli, Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell, SIENNA SPIRO, and more. 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2” debuts exclusively in theaters May 1.

 

The event was livestreamed on Disney+, Hulu, ABC News, and TikTok (with a full replay available on Disney+ and Hulu following the event), with hosts Brad Goreski, Tefi Bessoa, Deborah Roberts, and Sophie Flay, offering subscribers around the globe an exclusive front-row seat to the glamorous, star-studded event. In anticipation of the sequel, fans can revisit the original fashion phenomenon by streaming “The Devil Wears Prada” on Disney+ and Hulu now.

 

Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily, and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation. The film is directed by David Frankel, written by Aline Brosh McKenna, produced by Wendy Finerman, and executive produced by Michael Bederman, Karen Rosenfelt, and Aline Brosh McKenna.

4K Digital Review of Ella McCay

 

Emma Mackey plays Ella McCay, who gets the opportunity of a lifetime when Governor Bill (Albert Brooks) takes a job in Washington D.C. and leaves his job to Lt. Governor Ella. She has plans for her 14 months in office. But her problems with her family take over her life. She struggles with her womanizing father Eddie (Woody Harrelson), as well as the emotional issues faced by her brother Casey (Spike Fearn). Ella's husband Ryan (Jack Lowden) creates a scandal for his wife and threatens her plan to help the people of her state.

Estella (Julie Kavner) plays Ella's secretary and narrator of this film. She gives us the details of Ella's life. We see her mother (Rebecca Hall), deal with her husband's cheating. When her mom passed away, Ella is pretty much on her own. But as we move back into the present, there is literally too much going on and nothing seems to be resolved. This is what hurts the movie. Too many characters with too many motivations and we get a maze that we never get out of.  

Video:

The 4K streaming video is crystal clear. Fine details such a as sets and clothing are wonderful. Colors are natural and unsaturated. Another outstanding transfer from Disney and 20th Century Studios.

Audio:

The 5.1 Dolby Atmos audio track is very immersive. Environmental sounds surround you whether the scene takes place indoors or outdoors. Even background voices fall into the surround channels to increase the level of immersion. Dialogue is crystal clear through the front channels. The Hans Zimmer score fills in the space wonderfully. 

Bonus Features:

Deleted Scenes:

• “You Win, We Lose”
• “Forget About The Union Rep”
• “I Love Girl”
• “No More Interruptions”
• “Make Your Family Whole”
• “A Small Concussion”
• “Hazel Bottomless”
• “You Got Him Out”
• “Nice Family”

 

Bloopers

Featurettes:

• A James L. Brooks Film: Go behind the scenes as the film’s star-studded cast and crew share their joy of working with acclaimed writer-director James L. Brooks. Experience Brooks’ singular gift for creating beloved, memorable movie moments — and what it’s like to hear him laugh.

• In Good Company: The Cast Of Ella McCay: Sit down with James L. Brooks as he talks about his extraordinary cast and as the actors share their respect and appreciation for Brooks — and each other. Hear about the casting process that created heartfelt chemistry both on set and onscreen.

Conclusion:

Ella McCay has an amazing cast and some witty writing but sadly this ends up feeling like something for television instead of a motion picture. The audio and video are solid and the bonus features are enjoyable if you are considering to make this a purchase. 

Ella McCay is out on digital and will available on Blu-ray on March 3rd.

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

4K Digital Review of Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

 

Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere is an almost emo look at the man and his music. A dark, depressive world that Springsteen turned into music. We see his sad childhood and we know that this is not going to be a glossy, feel good biopic. It is a showcase for Jeremy Allen White who plays Springsteen. 

As we hear the lyrics of the songs, we hear the problems Springsteen had with his father. The movie itself goes back and forth between the troubled childhood of Springsteen and his troubled early professional career. In the current time frame of the movie, there is also a romantic interest that is introduced. But history shows that Springsteen was very single during this time and I think would have made for a more interesting story. 

Video:

The 4K streaming presentation is another solid transfer from Disney and 20th Century Studios. There is so much detail and clarity. The color graded scenes are beautiful and the colors pop off the screen. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos presentation here is stunning. The live concert sequences take full advantage of this in terms of creating a huge immersive soundscape. Dialogue is clear and front channel forward. Environmental effects move effortlessly from the side and rear channels. This is another solid effort from Disney and 20th Century Studios.

Exclusive Four-Act Documentary: Making Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

• Act 1: From Book to Screen — See how Warren Zanes’ moving book inspired filmmakers to bring Bruce Springsteen’s most intimate chapter to life on screen.

• Act 2: Beyond the Music — An intimate look at Bruce Springsteen’s raw and enduring masterpiece “Nebraska” — its sound, spirit, and powerful influence on the film’s tone and emotion.

• Act 3: Becoming Bruce Springsteen — Jeremy Allen White dives deep into the mind and music of Bruce Springsteen, capturing the grit, grace, and humanity that define the icon’s artistry.

• Act 4: Deep Authenticity — From vintage wardrobe to the Asbury Park boardwalk, experience how the filmmakers captured the raw soul of Bruce Springsteen’s New Jersey.

Conclusion:

The film is slightly disjointed, but there are solid technical merits and a rather enjoyable look at the making of the film for anyone who is interested in adding this to their library. 

The movie is currently available on digital and 4K Blu-ray.

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

4K Digital Review of The Sound of Music

 

The Sound of Music Celebrates arrives in a stunning restored and remastered 4K version for its 60th Anniversary. It is one of my favorite movies of all-time. I don't think I have ever seen a movie that is more joyful or optimistic. Here you can believe in the possibilities of love, that good will triumph over evil and the power of song.

Based on a true story that is known the world over, Julie Andrews plays Maria, who may never become a proper nun. She is sent to Salzburg to become the governess to the seven von Trapp children. Their father, Georg (Christopher Plummer), is a widower and a former Navy captain. He runs the household with strict military discipline. Maria wins over the children by letting them be children. They learn to sing and enjoy life. The Captain begins to see the change in his children and his heart begins to open. He even breaks off his engagement to the cold Baroness Schraeder (Eleanor Parker) to marry Maria. But there is danger out there. The Nazi threat looms over Austria and the von Trapps. The Nazis want the captain for their Navy and he makes a desperate escape with the entire family to safety over the Swiss Alps.    

Video:

The 4K Digital video is stunning. The 4K scan is from a brand new 8K scan with color correction and restoration work done. The details are absolutely eye-popping. A few examples include, the individual blades of grass as Maria sings at the opening of the movie, the details of the fabric on all the clothing and the stonework on the von Trapp home. The Sound of Music has never looked better.   

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is an equally stunning upgrade to go along with the video. The enhancement is immediately noticeable with the opening song. You will be completely surrounded by Maria's crystal clear vocals and the orchestration. Outdoor atmospheric ambiance is placed smartly. Dialogue is clean and clearly placed. An outstanding audio effort to accompany the amazing video.

Bonus Features (Bonus features vary by product and retailer)

• Sing-Along Version 
• Commentary by Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Charmian Carr, Dee Dee Wood & Johannes von Trapp 
• Commentary by Robert Wise
• The Sound of a City Documentary - Julie Andrews returns to Salzburg, Austria
• A City of Song - Filming locations in Salzburg, Austria
• Musical Stages - The songs, the show & the family
• Vintage Programs - The Sound of Music, Rodgers and Hammerstein, location interviews, and audio interviews
• Rare Treasures - Julie and Carol at Carnegie Hall: The Pratt Family Singers, The Julie Andrews Hour: Julie Andrews and Maria Von Trapp, Screen Tests, 40th Anniversary DVD Introduction by Julie Andrews, and galleries
• Publicity - Fox Movietone News - Academy Awards,®, trailers and teasers, TV spots, and radio spots

Conclusion:

One of my favorite films of all-time has never looked or sounded better. While the bonus features have been ported over from other Anniversary sets, this version is still highly recommended.

The Sound of Music is available now on digital.

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

4K Digital Review of The Amateur

 

The Amateur has all the tools for a great one-man-army story but sadly fails on the execution. Rami Malek plays Charles, a CIA crytographer, who loses his wife Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan) to a terrorist attack. Charles begins to go through the evidence and with a CIA training session with Robert (Laurence Fishburne) is off to track down the terrorists. 

What starts off as a great movie is bogged down in the second act with needless rehashing of what Charles is going through. Strange story choices as well as new characters that have nothing to do, pull you out of the momentum of the film.    

Video:

The 4K UHD streaming video is a great presentation. Everything is sharp and crisp with lots of details. Another fine transfer from Disney. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos track here is practically perfect. Wait until you hear the big pool scene. The way that the sound washes (sorry for the pun) over you is phenomenal. The environmental effects are consistent and engaging throughout the movie. The score plays well in the surround channels. Dialogue is crisp and clean.

Bonus Features:

• The Team – Join the cast and crew as they reflect on what drew them to this bold project. Rami Malek shares his dual experience as both actor and producer. Director James Hawes and others discuss how the script blends emotional depth and high-stakes action.
• The World – Explore how the film’s production combined real-world locations with intricate set designs to create a visually stunning and immersive world, from the shadowy halls of CIA headquarters to the bustling streets of Europe.
• The Pool – Go behind the scenes as the talented creative team uncovers how Charlie’s ingenious plan involving the sky pool was conceived, planned and executed, blending practical effects and cutting-edge technology to deliver a show-stopping moment.
• The Score – Listen in as the composer and director talk about the challenges of creating the score’s various themes — and using unusual instruments and techniques — to bring emotion and drama to this unique thriller.
• Deleted Scenes:
• Sarah Wonders How Charlie Can Trust His CIA Bosses 
• Henderson Blasts Heller for Failing a Training Exercise
• Heller Tracks Gretchen Through Paris
• A Third Assassin Chases Heller Through the Hotel Basement
• Heller Asks Inquiline Some Personal Questions

Conclusion:

The Amateur starts off really strong and then struggles to get to the finish line. The audio and video quality is solid with some enjoyable bonus material. 

The Amateur is available on digital and on 4K UHD and Blu-ray.

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

THE SOUND OF MUSIC Celebrates 60th Anniversary on March 2 - Newly Restored and Remastered 4K to Debut This Year

 

BURBANK, CA (February 20, 2025) – This March 2, 2025 will mark 60 years since the tunes of Rodgers & Hammerstein brought theatrical hills alive with the cinematic treasure The Sound of Music. This year, fans of all ages will experience the heart-warming sights and sing-along sounds of the classic film in a beautifully restored and remastered version to be released in 4K image resolution, courtesy of the precise work endeavored by the Walt Disney Film Restoration team. Over the course of 9 months, the restoration team oversaw digital scanning of preserved film footage and expert clean-up efforts to correct any dirt, warping or other issues encountered. “Our team is honored to care for and re-deliver this classic film to audiences around the world so they can enjoy it in all its originally intended visual and audio glory,” says Kevin Schaeffer, Director, Restoration & Library Management. Weaving artistic skills with innovative technology in a process more delicate than the petals of an edelweiss, the 60th anniversary restoration of The Sound of Music sings with both vibrant color and resounding melody, sharing the cinematic legacy anew for generations to come.

“This enhanced version of The Sound of Music is a testament to the enduring power of this iconic masterpiece. As we enter the 60th year, the restoration will safeguard our beloved classic for generations to come,” says Imogen Lloyd Webber, who oversees the Rodgers & Hammerstein brand as EVP Marketing and Communications for Concord Theatricals and Originals.
 
“The Walt Disney Company couldn’t be a better partner to bring to life an amazing international celebration of The Sound of Music’s enduring and meaningful impact on culture,” adds Sophia Dilley, EVP of Concord Originals.

In this true-life story, Julie Andrews lights up the screen as Maria, a spirited young woman who leaves the convent and becomes a governess to the seven unruly children of Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). Her warmth, charm and songs soon win the hearts of the children and their father. But when the threat of war rises, Maria is forced to attempt a daring escape with her new family. A five-time Academy Awards®-winning classic, and one of the most successful movie musicals of all time, The Sound of Music features unforgettable Rodgers & Hammerstein treasures like “Edelweiss,” ”My Favorite Things,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” and “Do-Re-Mi.”
 
Watch for future announcements on the rollout of 60th anniversary celebration for The Sound of Music and brush off your do-re-mi skills in the meantime!

4K Digital Review of Alien: Romulus

 

The Alien franchise has been one of my favorites for years. The combination of sci-fi and horror has captivated me for decades. While the more recent takes on the franchise have been less than stellar, Alien: Romulus is a return to form. While it is a standalone film set between the first two movies, it pays homage to the first three movies while carving out its own narrative. 

The story takes place on a remote mining planet. A group of young colonists are joining an expedition to salvage a space station and use it as their opportunity to escape from their livelihood. Little do they know that the station was once a bio-lab where deadly experiments took place. As the station comes back online, so do the creatures that that were meant to be left behind.

Director Fede Alvarez creates an atmosphere that fits the aesthetic of when the original movie was made. It doesn't feel like a harsh leap in technology. It feels rough and gritty like the original movies. Alvarez sets the tone perfectly. The young cast also helps with stellar performances. Led by Rain (Cailee Spaeny), the entire cast is solid and do not try to recreate the performances of any other actors in the franchise.

Video:

The 4K Digital transfer here is stunning. It intensifies everything from the close-ups of the Xenomorphs to the claustrophobic interiors of the space station. The shadows are inky black and the details of the station are crystal clear. The sharpness of the video adds to the intensity of each scene and only adds layers to the creepy atmosphere. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos track only adds to the the terror. The sound design is immersive from the acid blood dripping around you to the shrieks of the creatures stalking their prey. The film's score adds to the tension and fear.

Bonus Features:

Return to Horror: Crafting Alien: Romulus

• The Director’s Vision – Discover how one of today’s greatest horror directors, Fede Alvarez, collaborated with master filmmaker Ridley Scott to craft a new, heart-pounding chapter in the Alien franchise.
• Creating the Story – Learn what inspired the story of Alien: Romulus and see the many easter eggs from previous Alien installments that you may have missed.
• Casting the Faces – Meet the stars of Alien: Romulus as they take us inside the hearts and minds of their characters. Explore the parallels between Rain and the iconic franchise heroine, Ripley, and learn how filmmakers brought back a face from the past.
• Constructing the World – Explore the massive, practical sets of Alien: Romulus that hearken back to the futuristic style established in the '80s and get up close and personal with a hoard of practically built facehuggers, chestbursters, and xenomorphs.

Inside the Xenomorph Showdown – Experience the film’s climactic zero-gravity sequence from every angle as filmmakers break down what it took to make the moment spectacular. From sets and performances, to wirework, stunts, and VFX, see how it all came together.

Alien: A Conversation – A special conversation with Ridley Scott and Fede Alvarez for the Alien 45th Anniversary theatrical re-release.

Alternate / Extended Scenes – Check out scenes that didn't make the final cut.

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

Alien: Romulus is now available on digital and on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD on December 3rd.

Conclusion:

Alien: Romulus delivers all of the tension, fear and horror that one expects from an Alien movie. The 4K Digital release only heightens all of these to another level. Extremely detailed video and exceptional audio make this the definitive way to experience the movie. A welcomed addition to your movie library. 

4k Review of Kinds of Kindness

 

Kinds of Kindness is available on digital and out on Blu-ray and DVD on October 8th.

The movie features three stories, starting with a man trying to take control of his life, a policeman whose wife was missing-at-sea has returned and seems like a different person, and a woman who is determined to find a person with a special ability and destined to become a spiritual leader. 

Now, the films of Yorgos Lanthimos have an acquired taste. Some of his films stay within the realm of understanding while others are offbeat and require some patience to understand the perspective. Kinds of Kindness is far from being offbeat. There is little to no setup to what is happening as you sit there and try to figure out what is unfolding. And as we have come to expect from Lanthimos, this film uses sexuality to help the story. If you are not a fan of graphic nudity and sexual situations then this is a movie to avoid. While the film will more than provide a lot of discussion, the pay off at the end isn't worth the very long runtime. At times it is a tough film to watch and definitely not a film for everyone. 

Video:

The streaming 4K presentation is nearly perfect here. Color reproduction and skin tones are practically flawless. The blacks and shadows are inky and stand out when combined with mixed content.  

Audio:

The audio mix is very front heavy as to be expected with this type of movie. Dialogue, music and sound effects are crystal clear. There is very little use of the surround channels but when utilized create an enveloping experience. 

Bonus Features:

Featurette

• It Takes All Kinds: The Vision of Kinds of Kindness

• Join cast and crew for a behind-the-scenes look at this unique triptych story written by Yorgos Lanthimos and Efthimis Filippou. See how the sets, costumes, cinematography and music amplify the film's themes, and discover — maybe — what RMF stands for.

 

Deleted Scenes

• Robert ignores the SatNav

• Liz isn't recognized

 

Conclusion:

Kinds of Kindness is another bizarre and perplexing film from Yorgos Lanthimos. The 4K Digital version features excellent video and audio along with a few bonus features. The film is definitely not for everyone but I do recommend it for Lanthimos fans or those that enjoy different types of films. 

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

Alien: Romulus Invades Digital Retailers on Oct. 15 and Terrorizes on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD on Dec. 3

 

The legendary Alien franchise gives birth to an all-new terrifying sci-fi horror thriller when 20th Century Studios’ Alien: Romulus arrives to digital retailers (Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango at Home) on October 15 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD on December 3.

Director Fede Alvarez takes the phenomenally successful Alien franchise back to its iconic roots in the next jaw-dropping installment heralded by critics as “sheer terror” (Brian Truitt, USA Today) and “utterly breathtaking” (Andrew J. Salazar, Discussing Film). Alien: Romulus is Certified-Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes™ and has already thrilled audiences at the box office, becoming the second highest grossing film in the Alien franchise globally.

Alien: Romulus is the start of a new chapter with a brand-new story unlike any other Alien movie that came before it, featuring all-new creatures and characters that are “tense enough to grab you by the throat” (Owen Gleiberman, Variety). Fans can delve deeper into the Alien franchise with all-new exclusive bonus features, including featurettes with filmmakers Fede Alvarez and Ridley Scott, behind the scenes content, and alternate and extended scenes. The 4K UHD will be available in a collectible limited edition SteelBook® with custom artwork and packaging.

The original 1979 sci-fi thriller, Alien, is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year. Fans can experience the terror in a 2-Movie Collection digital bundle (Alien & Alien: Romulus) on October 15 in 4K UHD, HD and SD.

Bonus Features*
Return to Horror: Crafting Alien: Romulus

• The Director’s Vision – Discover how one of today’s greatest horror directors, Fede Alvarez, collaborated with master filmmaker Ridley Scott to craft a new, heart-pounding chapter in the Alien franchise.
• Creating the Story – Learn what inspired the story of Alien: Romulus and see the many easter eggs from previous Alien installments that you may have missed.
• Casting the Faces – Meet the stars of Alien: Romulus as they take us inside the hearts and minds of their characters. Explore the parallels between Rain and the iconic franchise heroine, Ripley, and learn how filmmakers brought back a face from the past.
• Constructing the World – Explore the massive, practical sets of Alien: Romulus that hearken back to the futuristic style established in the '80s and get up close and personal with a hoard of practically built facehuggers, chestbursters, and xenomorphs.

Inside the Xenomorph Showdown – Experience the film’s climactic zero-gravity sequence from every angle as filmmakers break down what it took to make the moment spectacular. From sets and performances, to wirework, stunts, and VFX, see how it all came together.

Alien: A Conversation – A special conversation with Ridley Scott and Fede Alvarez for the Alien 45th Anniversary theatrical re-release.

Alternate / Extended Scenes – Check out scenes that didn't make the final cut.