Toothless and Hiccup Land Home on 4K Ultra HD

 

Jeri Jacquin

This week on 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital in a Collector’s Edition from writer/director Dean DeBlois, DreamWorks and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the returning tale of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON.

On the island of Berg, Hiccup (Mason Thames) is a young man that doesn’t quite fit in, especially when it comes to fighting the one thing that plagues his village – dragons! It is even more difficult to fit in when your father is Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler) the chieftain of Berk. Hiccup mainly spends his time in the workshop of Gobber (Nick Frost) the blacksmith and being pushed out of the way when dragons attack. Except during the most recent attack, Hiccup hears something and knows if he can bring down a Night Fury, his life will get better yet, when he does, no one believes him.

Stoick is dead set on finding the dragons lair and getting rid of their dragon problem once and for all. Before leaving on that journey, Gobber talks him into letting Hiccup go into dragon training as a way of giving him something useful to do and staying under the watchful eye of Gobber. When he arrives for training, Hiccup is met with the groans of Astrid (Nico Parker), Fishlegs (Julian Dennison), Snotlout (Gabriel Howell), Ruffnut (Bronwyn James) and Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn) who see him as a hinderance and not a help to the village.

In between training, Hiccup decides to go look for signs that he caught a dragon. There, in a small opening in the woods, he sees the Night Fury struggling and shortly realizes his tail is damaged. When a friendship is struck and he discovers a way to help the Night Fury, Hiccup realizes that he can’t and won’t hurt other dragons. As the two become inseparable and he learns from the dragon named Toothless – Hiccup also becomes a surprise during training much to the suspicion of Astrid.

She learns Hiccups secret but also realizes that the villagers truly don’t understand dragons. When Stoick returns, everything comes out and now Hiccup and Toothless are separated while finding the dragon’s lair. Hiccup enlists the help of Astrid and the others to do what needs to be done – saving his father and the other Vikings!

Thames as Hiccup is a young man trying to find his place in the Viking village of Berk. Keeping himself busy with making inventions that no one really pays attention to, he thinks it’s time to get a dragon. The one thing Hiccup doesn’t count on is realizing that getting to know dragons is the answer to the villages’ problem. It’s unfortunate that Stoick isn’t interested in hearing about it. Thames is charming and captures a bit of the animated Hiccup but it works smoothly and that’s what is important.

Butler as Stoick is the only person that returns from animation to live-action. The fact is that nobody could voice the chieftain better than Butler and he is fun to watch in full Viking regalia. That makes playing the role much easier since he pretty much already knows the lines. The challenge I think would be going from being only a voice to a full-fledged Stoick on screen. He is funny, challenging, and the scene where he gives Hiccup his mother’s helmet is awkward and lovely at the same time.

Frost as Gobber is the peg-legged, one arm blacksmith who understands Hiccup’s predicament referring to him as “all this” of problems with a mixture of loyalty to Stoick as well as a trusted friend. Frost gives his character sarcasm and wit that I secretly enjoy and delivers. Parker as Astrid giving the strong minded and strong-willed Viking who believes she must beat everyone and everything in order to be seen as a leader. Hiccup is an obstacle to all that as she feels that being the son of the chieftain is a point she cannot get over. Parker delivers on the right bad attitude of her character until she begins to see the other side of the story. Well done.

Dennison, James, Trevaldwyn, and Codd round out the added cast as the other trainees of dragon camp. They might see Hiccup as a problem-child in the beginning but, like Astrid, learn that there is more to their small world than they could ever imagine. Each of these actors are a sweet addition to the live action story.

Other cast include Peter Serafinowicz as Spitelout, Naomi Wirthner as Gothi, Ruth Codd as Phlegma, Andrea Ware as Burnheart, Anna Brophy as Retcha, Marcus Onilude as Snorti, Peter Selwood as Drul, Daniel Williams as Fungi, Kate Kennedy as Flatula and Murray McArthur as Hoark.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

DreamWorks brings amazing, film and animated entertainment, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes, Gag Reel, Love and Legacy: Making HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON, Building Berk, Dreaming Up the Dragons, Fit for a King, Forbidden Friendship, Exploring the Isle of Berk at Epic Universe and Feature Commentary with Writer/Director Dean DeBlois and more!

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON is, of course, the live action version of the 2010 version of the same name. The cast brings together that version of the story nicely with a few changes here and there but most following the formula that made the animated film such a success. That is important for the success of the film because, and let’s be honest here, when a story changes drastically, fans get a little edgy.

Toothless remains animated and everything my family loves about the Night Fury. Needless to say, there are plenty of Toothless items around our house because that is the amazing impression this character has made. He is a combination of a strong willed, free spirited, protector of a black cat and its absolutely wonderful. That’s how I’ve always seen Toothless and this film doesn’t change that about him one bit.

The film is fun, lots of laughs, and exactly the summer feature that families can have an amazing time at the theatre with. There is something for everyone bringing some of us back to 2010 and introducing a new generation to the same fun in a different way with the story of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON.

In the end – the legend is real!

The Thriller of THE WOMAN IN THE YARD

 

Jeri Jacquin

On Bluray and Digital from director Jaume Collet-Serra and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes a tale of death and shock over THE WOMAN IN THE YARD.

Ramona (Danielle Deadwyler) is the mother of Taylor (Peyton Jackson) and Annie (Estella Kahiha) as they are grieving the loss of her husband David (Russell Hornsby). Healing from her own wounds, she finds herself struggling to get back into life. During breakfast, Annie notices a woman sitting across the street from their home, just sitting. Taylor wants to be the first to question her but Ramona grabs her crutches and tries to converse with the woman dressed in black (Okwui Okpokwasili).

Not getting any answers from the woman, Ramona returns to the house and tells the children to stay away from her and starts locking down the house. Then the woman moves closer to the house and Taylor feels the need to get rid of the woman. Ramona is becoming frustrated with him as the boy pulls up a chair and watches the woman outside. Also, outside is the family dog Charlie who senses danger.

Unable to go for help herself, the tension inside the house grows as the woman gets closer and closer. Taylor has had enough and confronts the woman only to discover that it is Ramona keeping secrets from her children. That’s not enough to help the family as they struggle to find a safe way out but will it come in time to save them?

Deadwyler as Ramona is a woman dealing with the loss of her husband and all that goes with it. Her wounds are not only physical but emotional that causes her to detach from the children that need her. Deadwyler gives a strong performance showing the struggle of it all and not realizing that she causing her family more pain. There is a fusion of what she knows is true and what lies out in their yard and it is painful for her.

Jackson as Taylor is a teenager who thinks he knows everything. Angry at his mother for her finding respite in sleep, he lashes out, is hurtful and thinks he is doing the right things no matter what she says. I’m not a fan of teen angst so if the idea was for me to dislike the kid, well, he did a great job of making that happen. Kahiha as Annie is a sweet little girl who is also dealing with the loss of her dad and is sad seeing her mother becoming a shell of a person. Yet, she is also a strong little girl who refuses to give into what ever is trying to break her family up. This young actress is just amazing from start to finish.

Okpokwasili as the Woman is frightening as she sits in a chair covered in a black dress and veil. I can’t even imagine how anyone would deal with seeing this figure appear out of nowhere and mystically move closer to a home. What a chance to play a mysterious figure and keep us all waiting for that veil to lift!!

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

Blumhouse Productions is known for producing horror films such as PARANORMAL ACTIVITY, INSIDIOUS, SINISTER, THE PURGE, THE GIFT, GET OUT, HAPPY DEATH DAY and SPLIT. The films from Blumhouse have become instant classics and they continue to give us something to scream about! See more at www.blumhouse.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features include Making THE WOMAN IN THE YARD and Beneath the Veil.

THE WOMAN IN THE YARD is a thriller that will leave people guessing from one scene to the next. The twists and turns are made even more so because the film is located in one specific and isolated place. I enjoy the kind of film that keeps me locked into that space because it begins to feel as if there is no way out of that wide open space. In fact, it is mesmerizing watching Taylor just stare out the window as the woman moves closer and closer.

The drama is full on intense and the secrets are subtle in trying to understand what this family is going through. It is a look at sadness, grief, hurt, secrets and what that can bring into a home trying to force a mother and her children apart. The anger that surrounds them fogs the real issues that they are facing and more importantly, blinds them to the answers outside their own front door.

Keeping the cast basically inside the house, there is nowhere to hide as Deadwyler, Jackson and young Kahiha provide every human emotion possible in the one hour and twenty-eight-minute run for their lives. Turn out the lights, cuddle up on the sofa with a fluffy security blanket and settle in for a story that lives in the darkness right along with you.

In the end – don’t let her in!

 

He Knows LOVE HURTS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from director Jonathan Eusebio and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the love action comedy that shows how LOVE HURTS.

Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) loves his job being a real estate agent and has just been awarded Realtor of the Year! Explaining to his assistant Ashely (Lio Tipton) that it’s important to love what you do, he enters his office only to discover the assassin Raven (Mustafa Shakir) waiting. A questioning fight is ‘where is Rose’?  Just when Marvin thought he had started a new life, it has come back to literally kill him.

Rose is a girl Marvin actually likes but that’s not the whole story. It seems once upon a time; Marvin was an assassin for The Company run by his brother Alvin or “Knuckles” (Daniel Wuv). Rose (Ariana DeBose) sort of stole some money and Marvin was supposed to “take care” of Rose but love got in his way. Now that you are caught up, Rose grabs Marvin and explains what is happening and Ashley has fallen for poetry driven Raven who Marvin left lying flat out in his realtor’s office. Understand?

Oh, it gets crazier! Knuckles is upset because Marvin’s mentor Cliff (Sean Astin) refers to him as his brother and Rose wants the money she stole. To make her point, Rose kidnaps Knuckles accountant Kippy (Rhys Darby) to track down the money only to discover that Knuckles man Renny Merlo (Cam Gigandet) has his own game going. Of course you can add Otis (Andre Eriksen), King (Marshawn Lynch) and Jeff (Drew Scott) to the mix, who are they? Untangle it all for yourself!

Quan as Marvin is a man who has found a second life in real estate. Constantly on the go to get the job done, he is happy with his life choice, until Rose shows up. Wanting to do the right thing by her (well, he is in love), he is up against some of the craziest people who are out to either get money or get Marvin or get Rose or a little bit of everything actually. This is an interesting character to watch play out and it is also quite charming.

DeBose as Rose has her own agenda even if she has a few hearts for Marvin. Getting him involved has brought out a bunch of bad guys who are a little messed up in their emotions but hey – a hit man is a hit man right? Tipton as Ashley is a bit scattered but knows that real estate is not in her life’s plan. Especially when she meets a certain poet assassin who only has eyes at the moment for Gable.

Shakir as Raven is giving off big man creepy vibes but also has a heart for poetry. That doesn’t mean he won’t get the assassin thing done, he just gets sidetracked occasionally by Ashley and a good fight in a kitchen with oversized cutlery. Darby as Kippy has a lot to say for a man without a finger. Twin assassins from a different mother are Lynch who doesn’t hesitate to use his previous gridiron skills and Eriksen as Otis who has a soft side.

Gigandet as Renny is playing both sides of the game and keeping his hands fairly clean, but that could change as quickly as the car Marvin is driving. Wuy as Knuckles has everyone dancing to his tune but that doesn’t mean Rose or Marvin for that matter are going to let him get away with his plan to take out everyone.

Shout out to Astin as Cliff, now there is a reunion that took forty years fir Data and Mikey back together again!

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Exclusive Bonus Features include Alternate Ending, Deleted and Extended Scenes The Ke as Gable, The Heart of LOVE HURTS and Stunts Hurt.

LOVE HURTS has a bit of everything from charming comedy, to slap stick antics, a bit of love, nutty assassins, sibling rivalry, martial arts and a few Russians. That’s a lot coming at the screen yet not only does it work but its fun (and a bit funny). No one said love wasn’t going to hurt a bit right? The cast play off one another and make it look easy and, most of all, fun.

Prepare yourself for a roller coaster ride of fun and a few surprises. This is the type of film that brings everybody to the sofa with a big bowl of popcorn, laugh, get in on the jokes and have a fantastic time all around. This Bluray offers so much more after the film is finished so take time to check that out as well.

In the end – love can save the day!

The One and Only DOG MAN Fights Crime on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from writer/director Peter Hastings, DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the one and only DOG MAN.

Police Officer Knight and sidekick dog Greg are severely injured and in order to save them both, the doctors create Dog Man! Quick healing puts Dog Man back on the streets to try and capture Petey the Cat (Pete Davidson). Dog Man’s boss Chief (Lil Rel Howery) knows that the town’s mayor (Cheri Oteri) is becoming frustrated and makes it clear to get that cat!

Petey (Pete Davidson) is wreaking havoc and with each capture, he realizes that its time to be more creative. Deciding to double himself, what actually happens is the creation of Little Petey (Lucas Hopkins), an adorable child version of big Petey. Not happy with the outcome, in one moment he becomes happy when little Petey goes missing.

Not really missing really, more like left and Dog Man finds him! Taking him home, the two become attached to one another. Keeping up on the news of what Petey is doing is Sarah Hatoff (Isla Fisher), the local news reporter and her trusty cameraman Seamus (Billy Boyd). To add more mischief and mayhem Petey has created a robot and manages to bring Flippy the Fish (Ricky Gervais) into the chaos.

So now Dog Man, must find a way to stop the madness created by Petey while also keeping Chief and the mayor happy and not crushing Little Petey’s spirit. That’s a tall order for a small Dog Man but nothing that he can’t handle without a little surprising help.

Writer/Director Hastings has decided to be the barking voice of Dog Man and there certainly isn’t anything wrong with that. He is able to provide the right emotions for this animated creation and it did look like fun. Davidson as Petey the Cat is a bit psychotic, a bit maniacal and a bit misunderstood. It takes a duplicate to test what he believes about himself but doesn’t stop the creation of more problems.

Howery as Chief tries to deal with Dog Man and the mayor giving him more headaches than he knows what to do with. There is a little jealousy about all the attention Dog Man is getting so there’s that issue to deal with. Fisher as Hatoff had me cracking up with her reporter skills and with the help of Boyd as Seamus, these two characters are perfect together and these two actors gave perfect voices to them.

Gervais as Flippy the Fish has us rolling with laughter and the lines delivered had Gervais all over them. The craziness is there and we were loving every moment. Hopkins as Little Petey is charming, adorable and almost made me want an orange cat – almost. His voice gives us reason to believe that a character can be a little bad even if he’s all good.

Other cast include Stephen Root as Grandpa, Poppy Liu as Butler, Luenell as Milly, Melissa Villasenor as the Realtor, Brian Hopkins as Big Jim, Yung Gravy as Mr. Whiskers, and Karen Foster as the Robot.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing, animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

Universal Pictures has amazing films in their library. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Exclusive Bonus Features include Deleted and Extended Scenes with Introductions by Screenwriter/Director Peter Hastings, Meet the Pack, The Making of DOG MAN: A Sarah Hatoff Exclusive, Howl to Draw Flip-o-Rama Style, Howl to Make Doughnuts for Dogs and Feature Commentary with Screenwriter/Director Peter Hastings.

Dav Pilkey is the creator of Dog Man but this isn’t his first works to go from book to screen. He is also responsible for Captain Underpants books that also made it to the screen successfully. Pilkey has written 12 Dog Man books, several in the Dragon series, Dumb Bunnies books, Cat Kid Comic Club, Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot, Big Dog & Little Dog and other books.

First of all, DOG MAN is one of my granddaughters’ all-time favorite books to read and she cannot get enough of them. When I told her that Dog Man had been made into a film, she was thrilled beyond belief and made sure that I took her to see it. Her favorite character is Petey and she was so happy from beginning to end. Now that Dog Man is on Bluray/Digital, she can watch over and over again!

The film is funny with the zany story and it even had references that are meant to make the adults laugh. DOG MAN is so colorful and the animation is well done to the point where I could hold up one of the books next to the film poster and there is hardly any difference. That’s what made it so excitable to watch, keeping the characters as they have come to be loved by kids and probably a few adults.

DOG MAN is the perfect family film to bring the family together so grab popcorn and laugh. It is so well animated, colorful, fun and full of laughter from start to finish.

In the end – part dog, part man and all hero!

There is a History About WOLF MAN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray, DVD and currently available on Digital from writer/director Leigh Whannel, Corbett Tucker and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes the story of what can happen in the woods with a WOLF MAN.

Blake (Christopher Abbott) lives in San Francisco with Charlotte (Julia Garner) and daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth). A writer spending most of his time at home with his young daughter, Charlotte is often off working as well. One morning Blake receives mail with a death certificate for his father and a set of keys to the house he grew up in Oregon. Knowing that he must go and clean out the house, he asks Charlotte to make it a bit of a vacation and spend time as a family together.

Getting a moving van, they make their way into the deep forest trying to get to the house before sun set. On the way they meet Derek (Benedict Hardie), a friend of Blake’s when they were younger who offers to lead them to the house. As the road narrows, something is in the road as Blake tries to avoid it heading off the road. Something comes after the van and scratches at Blake who grabs his family and races toward the house.

Locking all the doors and windows, Blake is attempting to protect his family as Charlotte takes care of Ginger. She also notices that her husband is bleeding from a deep cut. Still watching out for whatever is outside, Blake starts to feel out of sorts and Charlotte notices it. Realizing she needs to get Blake some help, it becomes a game of cat and mouse. Blake knows that he must take on whatever is outside if he is to protect his family.

Charlotte focuses on how she can protect her daughter for what is becoming more dangerous minute by minute. It becomes clear that what is happening to Blake is something she could have never imagined.

Abbott as Blake is a man who hasn’t had much luck at his work and has taken to being a good house dad for his daughter. When his father is declared dead, although he isn’t affected like he perhaps should be, clearing out his childhood house needs to be done. Feeling as if his marriage is not going well, he sees this as an opportunity for he and Charlotte to reconnect. Abbott gives his character an unassuming nature but he knows more than he has been telling his family.

Garner as Charlotte is a wife who has been going along to get along in her marriage but when Blake asks straight out, she has to admit that things aren’t as it should be. There is also a feeling of disconnect with young daughter Ginger as she seems to prefer her father much more and they have a connection that causes her to feel left out. Garner gives a straight performance, and although I wouldn’t have stuck around as long as her character did, at least she was supportive.

Firth as Ginger is a loving daughter who is now caught up in something that clearly no child should be. She is pretty calm for a kid being chased by something through the forest so well-done Firth. Hardie as Derek is a scary character who doesn’t say much, it is the look on his face that is pretty frightening and Garner’s character senses it immediately.

Other cast include Sam Jaeger as Grady Lovell, Benedict Hardie as Derek Kiel and Leigh Whannell as the voice of Dan Kiel.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features on Digital, 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and DVD include Unleashing a New Monster, Designing Wolf Man, Hands on Horror, Nightmares and Soundscapes and Feature Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Leigh Whannell.

WOLF MAN is another telling about the mythical world of wolf people and this one aims directly at a family with history. Able to escape the life his father put him through in his young life, there is part of Blake that doesn’t want to return back to his childhood home. Keeping the story limited to the three characters means the battle becomes between what’s outside and what’s inside.

The film does remind me a bit of the film THE BEAST WITHIN but that isn’t a bad thing at all. Each interpretation of the wolf man stories brings a new set of eyes in the way it can be told and the surroundings in which to tell it. Whannel chose his story to be isolated deep in the forest of Oregon (although it was filmed in New Zealand) forcing the three main characters into survival mode and that is a fascinating part of the story.

In the end – protect your own!

 

The Fear of NOSFERATU Comes to 4K Ultra HD

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital from writer/director Robert Eggers and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes another retelling of the story of NOSFERATU.

Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp) is a young woman living with her husband Thomas (Nicholas Hoult) in Germany. As an estate agent, Thomas is hoping that his position as Schloss Grunewald will give him an opportunity to bring a wonderful life for his wife. Called in to see his employer Herr Knock (Simon McBurney), Thomas is told that he would be traveling to visit the recluse Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgard) who wishes to purchase property in Wisborg.

Thomas asks friends Friedrich Harding (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and wife Anna (Emma Corrin) to look after Ellen as he travels to Transylvania. Arriving after weeks, he is greeted with hostility by the Romani townsfolk and witnesses a ritual that is shocking. Having to make the rest of the journey to Orlok’s castle, he is greeted by Orlok and the appearance is disturbing to Thomas. Yet, he does what he must to finish the paperwork so he can return home to Ellen.

Lord Orlok has other plans and it includes also wanting to return to see the lovely young Ellen. Thomas realizes that he must escape before the nightmares and their effects consume him. Near death, his makes his way home without realizes that Ellen is also suffering melancholy to be confronted by scientist Albin Eberhart Von Franze (Willem Dafoe). Olek has no choice but to sail for Wisborg in a rat-infested ship, using the scurrying creatures to cause havoc in his new hometown met by Knock.

Wisborg is struck by the plague and Thomas attempts to regain his strength as Ellen realizes that her own dreams and nightmares are caused by one thing. Now, Thomas, Dr. Wilhelm Sievers (Ralph Ineson), Von Granze and Ellen must come together with a plan that can put a stop to the madness and destruction happening in their town. 

Hoult as Thomas is a man that clearly wants a standard of life for himself and wife Ellen. Accepting an assignment that could bring him financial reward, it could never have imagined what was truly to come. Hoult has truly spent the last few years covering almost every genre of film and standing out. In this film he is challenged with horror and a bit of bravery all in the name of love. Depp as Ellen is clearly a woman who suffers from a strange malady. Finding refuge in her marriage, it is only a temporary reprieve. Depp gives her character the look of a woman struggling to discover what is true in her life and what is madness.

Skarsgard as Orlok is a strange character but that is nothing new for this actor. The mystery is in how Orlok truly looks which is masked by shadows. Pennywise and Orlok do have a lot in common and that’s where Skarsgard wins. Dafoe as Von Franze comes across as slightly rattled in his own mind with zippy Shakespearean one liners causing a bit of chaos trying to convince everyone that there is a vampire present.

Taylor-Johnson as Fredrich is a wealthy man who befriends Thomas and Ellen. He loves his wife and children and as the world becomes unhinged, Taylor-Johnson character has a difficult time grasping the reality of the situation. Corrin as Anna loves her friendship with Ellen and is distraught at her condition. There is nothing Corrin’s character Anna won’t do for Ellen and it may cost her.

McBurney as Knock is the servant of Orlok but that doesn’t mean his opportunity to cause a little mayhem on his own isn’t possible. Creepy and dedicated, every opportunity McBurney is on screen is a chance to shock. Ineson as Sievers is a former student of Von Franze and doctor to Ellen. Seeking help to discover the cause of a young woman’s malady, he knows that his mentor may be a little off, but brilliant none-the-less.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features include the Extended Cut and Theatrical Version, Deleted Scenes, NOSFERATU: A Modern Masterpiece and Feature Commentary with Writer/Director Robert Eggers.

NOSFERATU is a film that is grey, dark and filled with vampiric folklore. The characters felt more like this should be a dark and eerie stage production. The costuming is one of my favorite things about period pieces and the film definitely comes through on that score brilliantly. The women truly looked like the era and gave it such a richness to the story.

The cinematography was beautifully done with the eeriness of greys, blacks and a fogginess that lends feels like another character in the film. The music added a nice touch of intensity to the scenes. However, the 1992 film BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA continues to be my standard and this film hasn’t changed that opinion. It is interesting to note that every generation or so a Dracula film comes along and sticks with the audience of that era. My grandmother had her Bela Lugosi, my mother had Frank Langella, I have Gary Oldman and now Bill Skarsgard.

In the end – succumb to the darkness!

It is Time to Fly Once Again with WICKED

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and DVD this Friday from director Jon M. Chu and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes the much-anticipated film WICKED.

Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo) is a young woman who has been living with a difference, she happens to be green. While taking her sister Nessarose (Marissa Bode), a paraplegic, to her first day at Shiz University, she is noticed by Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), the Headmistress. Believing she has found something special; she makes sure that Elphaba is taken into Shiz as well. Looking for a room to place her, Galinda Upland (Ariana Grande) is unwittingly chosen.

Galinda is a very popular girl who has a dreamy pink-like quality that Elphaba doesn’t warm up to at first meeting. Setting boundaries makes Galinda unsure of how it is possible that someone doesn’t like her. No matter, Galinda has found something new to keep her in the clouds and that is the arrival of Fiyero Tigelaar (Jonathan Bailey), a Winkie very good-looking prince. He sees Galinda as well and the two strike up a flirtation. But another, Boq (Ethan Slater) also has eyes for the floating beauty.

In history class, Doctor Dillamond (Peter Dinklage), a goat, is giving the students their first lessons but it is Galinda making it about her until Elphaba interjects. Once again Galinda is confused. When it is announced that a group is going out together, Boq tries to make his move but Galinda redirects him to Nessarose which makes the young girl so thrilled and Elphaba wonder if perhaps she might be too harsh on Galinda. At the dance is when everything beings to change for the two young women.

Elphaba now finds a way to include Galinda in her studies with Madame Morrible and Galinda finds ways to show others that Elphaba is one of them. Madame Morrible has decided, after seeing Elphaba’s powers, to write to the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) to see if a private audience can happen. Again, Elphaba includes Galinda in the exciting adventure but once there, both of them see what the Wizard is really about and what part Madame Morrible is playing.

The two young women must each make a decision on what path down the yellow brick road they are going to take. Elphaba now understands the strength of her powers and is about to unleash the Wicked Witch of the West!

Grande as Galinda and Erivo as Elphaba play off one another very well. They seem to be having fun play their respective roles and that is important to the audience watching. I just love Michelle Yeoh and when she gets the opportunity to play bad, she just plays it bad to the bone and as Madame Morrible it is as underhanded as it gets and I’m here for it.

Bailey as Fiyero is handsome, dashing and quite the dancer around books. He is the Ken to Galdina’s Barbie (outfits and all) but there will come a kitty-cat moment where he begins to question feelings he seems to have never had before. Slater as Boq is a love-struck young man and the problem is that the heart wants what the heart wants. We will see how this plays out.

Goldblum as the Wizard is exactly what I expected and actually waited to see out of the whole film. He is quirky, theatrical, and when the tables turn, he keeps up the wide-eyed innocent act with style. Dinklage as the voice of Doctor Dillamomd is just so damn cool…period. He may be the voice of a goat but I cheered hearing him none-the-less.

Other cast include Karis Musongole as young Elphaba, Bowen Yang as Pfannee, Bronwyn James as ShenShen, Keala Settle as Miss Coddle, Aaron Teoh as Avaric, Grecia de la Paz as Gilligan, Colin Carmichael as Professor Nikidik, Courtney-Mae Briggs as Melena Thropp, Andy Nyman as Frexspar Thropp, and Sharon D. Clarke as Dulcibear.

Cameos include Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth, Stephen Schwartz, Kerry Ellis, Luke Bayer, Georgina Onuorah and Dianne Pilkington.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features include Sing Along – Alternate Feature Length Version, Deleted and Extended Scenes, Making WICKED, Welcome to Shiz, A Wicked Legacy, The Wonderful Wizard, Feature Commentary with Direction Jon M. Chu, and   Feature Commentary with Stars Cynthia Erivo and Arina Grande.

WICKED has already won a few accolades from the Manaki Brothers Film Festival with the SUMOLIGHT Creative Synergy Award, the Heartland Film Festival for Truly Moving Picture Award Cameriage for Production Designer Award for Nathan Crowley, Celebration of Black Cinema and Television with Actress Award – film for Cynthia Erivo, and Santa Barbara International Film Festival Virtuoso Award for Ariana Grande.

The film is very colorful with a 2023 Willy Wonka and Harry Potter school type deal with spells, witches, wands and outlandish characters. Galinda is washed in Pepto Bismal so much than her brain is basically mush but enough left for her to be sweetly dastardly.

Elphaba - I give a nod for her basket bike riding skills. By the way, when did the Wizard get a side-kick? Not sure what a prince has to do with the story but I guess I’ll maybe find out in Part 2? The story is created from a screenplay by Winie Holzman and Dana Fox but the stage musical was by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman and is “loosely” based on the 1995 story by Gregory Maguire. Now I have to go read the book!

My granddaughter is happy to be home with mom and dad basking in the glow of a shared experience. I’m here for that absolutely and see that WICKED hits a target audience who are going to be just as thrilled that they will be able to watch at home again and again. The color, the songs, the dancing, the few giggles is exactly what fans expect. Get the kudos, get the awards and make the fans happy because I’m all for that absolutely.

Grab up every musical lover you know, grab up every WICKED fan who is excited, for the kids and the kid at heart, and come together once again (dressing in costume is optional) but always fun, make sure you get a comfy seat and prepare to look towards the western sky!

In the end – everyone deserves the chance to fly!

Prepare to Experience TWISTERS on 4K Ultra HD!

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital from director Lee Isaac Chung and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes the anticipated adventure when dealing with TWISTERS.

Meteorologist Kate Cooper (Daisy Edgar-Jones) is attempting to recover from a major blow to her storm chasing. Javi (Anthony Ramos) has been testing a new tracking system since then and wants Kate to jump back into the game. Hesitant, Kate agrees to come back briefly and see what Javi has going. Out in the field, she meets Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), a “tornado wrangler” who lives for the thrill of the storm.

As Kate and Javi begin chasing, it is clear that she is hesitant and is causes the team to wonder if she can handle it all. When they see what Tyler and his crew are capable of, Kate takes on the challenge and works with Javi to start chasing the outbreak of tornadoes in the infamous tornado alley. Not far behind is Tyler along with videographer Boone (Brandon Perea) and tag-along journalist Ben (Harry Hadden-Paston) who wants to write about storm chasers, drone operator Lilly

More and more storms are on the horizon but Kate learns that she might be chasing with the wrong team. Tyler and Kate decide it’s time to take the chase to another level and its none too soon as the biggest tornado is about to test them all.

Powell as Tyler is the rough and rugged cowboy chaser who cranks up the music and shouts his way into storms. His character has a swagger that charms everyone, except perhaps for Kate, but that doesn’t stop him from trying. Taking on storm by storm, Powell gives his character depth with his look on those who suffer from the devastation of the tornadoes.

Edgar-Jones as Kate experienced what happens when you take on Mother Nature and it isn’t easy to shake. Getting back into the game, Edgar-Jones brings out the history of this character and what motivates her to accept tragedy and do everything possible to create a system that can prevent disasters.

Ramos as Javi is part of Kate’s original team but after the disaster he goes on his own way. That way is being part of a new storm chasing team but it causes a rift between he and Kate. Trying to make amends, Javi discovers that what he does and how he wants to do it are two very different things.

Shout out to Hadden-Paston as British journalist Ben and Maura Tierney as Kate’s mom Cathy.

Cast also includes: Daryl McCormack as Jeb, Kiernan Shipka as Addy, Nik Dodani as Praveen, David Corenswet as Scott, Tunde Adebimpe as Dexter, Katy O’Brian as Dani, David Born as Riggs, Laura Poe as Debra, Austin Bullock as Manny, and Stephen Oyoung as Mike.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Exclusive Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes, Gag Reel, Tracking the Fronts: The Path of TWISTERS, Into the Eye of the Storm, Glen Powell: All Access, Front Seat to a Chase, Voice of a Villain, Tricked-Out Trucks and Feature Commentary with Director Lee Isaac Chung..

The soundtrack TWISTERS: The Album features country music artists like Luke Combs with the lead single Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma, Miranda Lambert with Ain’t in Kansas Anymore and more. The music adds an element of fun to the film and I totally enjoyed it.

The story is a bit nostalgic with its twists and nods to the 1996 Bill Paxton-Helen Hunt film TWISTER. This includes an appearance by the late Paxton’s son Cody. I felt like there were a few Easter Eggs whether they were intentional or not. See if you can find them.

TWISTERS is non-stop action and that’s what will keep you on the edge of your seat. The best part of the film is that director Chung didn’t try to reinvent the windy wheel but instead remembers what made the film TWISTER such a massive hit and become iconic. Trust me when I say if you have a sound bar, turn that puppy up because it adds an amazing element to watching at home.

The cast keep it simple and stay on point with their one goal, characters that are pit up against the elements. Tornados are a force to be reckoned with by staying out of their way, storm chasers are the ones that run into the wind while others are getting away.

In the end – if you feel it, chase it!

DESPICABLE ME 4 Returns on 4K Ultra HD

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital from directors Chris Renaud, Patrick Delage, Illumination and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is DESPICABLE ME 4.

Gru (Steve Carell) is attending a school reunion and runs into childhood nemesis Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and girlfriend Valentina (Sofia Vergara). He is also there thinking he will finally win the Best Pupil Award that he longs for from principal Ubelschlecht (June Squibb). Disappointed once again, he watches Maxime show his newest transformation as a human cockroach. That’s when the Anti-Villain League (AVL) jumps in and they arrest Maxime.

That doesn’t last long and now Gru, wife Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and kids Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Madison Polan) along with baby Gru are now in danger. Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan) packs up the family and relocates them to a safehouse providing each with a new identity. Worrying about the minions, Ramsbottom lets the family know they are under the care of the AVL.

Now Gru is Chet, Lucy is Blanche, Margo is Bree, Edith is Blair, and Agnes is Britney and they are attempting to be a normal family. Gru starts by introducing himself to neighbor Perry Prescott (Stephen Colbert), wife Patsy (Chloe Fineman) and daughter Poppy (Joey King). It is Poppy who stands out as she has a plan and uses Gru’s infamy to get what she wants.

Maxime also has a plan, to get back at Gru by taking Gru Jr.! With all the moving parts, Gru is trying to keep the family safe and once the super minions get involved, well, there is no telling what will happen next!

Carrel as Gru has picked up his iconic vocal mantle and jumped right in with both feet firmly planted in family life. Still part of the AVL, he also has unresolved schoolboy issues thanks to a principle and another villain. There is only one character that sounds like Gru and Carrel does it so well. Wiig as wife Lucy is always so full of fun, light hearted and sees the good in her family. She makes as many silly mistakes as Gru but when Lucy does it – it’s kinda cute. Wiig gives her character a sense of self and family which is so very cool.

Ferrell as Maxime actually sounds like Megamind with a French accent but it works. He has childhood issues and wants Gru to pay. The problem is he is messing with the wrong evil guy. Vergara as Valentina has a small role and it has its moments of laughs.

Cosgrove as Margo is growing up and discovering that her family is everything. Gaier as Edith is set in her ways and happy with herself in all aspects. I love her straightforward attitude. Polan as Agnes has a serious crisis when it comes to telling people her under-cover name teaching kids who watch that the truth is important.

King as Poppy has a streak in her that Gru can relate to but in his earlier years. Now he wants to get away from it but Poppy has struck a deal that he cannot avoid. King as Poppy is charmingly evil and it’s as simple as that, well maybe not that simple when a badger is involved. Colbert as Perry gives us the stuck-up rich guy but the minions take care of that. Fineman as Patsy is that charming southern tennis player who just wants everyone to get along.

Shout out to Coogan as Ramsbottom who loves being the director of the AVL and wants to help Gru’s family. Also, Squibb as principal Ubelschlecht is exactly the educator who knows how to use a ruler!

Universal Pictures just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience in theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

Illumination, founded by Chris Meledandri in 2007, is one of the industry’s leading producers of event animated films. Bringing the DESPICABLE ME franchise, to include Minions, features some of the world’s most renowned talent. To read more please visit www.illumination.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features include 2 Mini-Movies: Game Over and Over and Benny’s Birthday, Deleted Scenes, Despicable Dialogue, Meet the Cast, Making of Mega Minion Mayhem, Rogues Gallery and How to Draw.

DESPICABLE ME 4 is fun, charming, hilarious, and an adventure that can only be had by the minions. The one thing about the franchise is that staying with the formula assures a win because who wants to change Gru, the family or the minions? We love the antics, the growing that Gru is doing as a dad and a husband. Less time in the lab and more time making pancakes is definetly a sign that Gru can be both a crime fighter and a good dad.

Becoming beloved icons, DESPICABLE ME 4 is a fantastic (and cool) way to spend time with family. This is the film that makes a huge tub of popcorn fun in every way. It is colorful with fantastic animation but, then again, I would expect nothing less from Illumination, director Chris Renaud and Chris Meledandri. My family is planning on a DESPICABLE ME marathon of all four films because laughing is our favorite thing!

The music from Heitor Pereira and Pharrell Williams brings the beat and the sweet minion dance moves which is a bonus for us all.

In the end – this daddy is a baddie!

Take a Jump with THE FALL GUY Landing on Digital

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Digital this week from director David Leitch and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the story of a stuntman who is becoming THE FALL GUY.

Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling) is the stunt double for action star Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). Girlfriend Jody (Emily Blunt) is a camera woman on the picture that they are both working on. Ryder wants an action sequence to be bigger and asks Colt to make it happen. What ends up happening is an accident that ruins a lot of things in Colt’s life.

That is until almost two years later, Colt gets a call from film producer Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham). She tells him that Jody is the director on another Ryder action film, MetalStorm, and he is wanted on the set to do stunts. He is thrilled because he wants to help Jody with anything she needs, it isn’t until he is on the set that he finds out the truth.

He isn’t there a day before having to deal with ex-girlfriend rage and a disappearing action star. Gail asks Colt to go find him and it isn’t everything he signed up for. Arriving at Ryder’s place, he is sent on a wild goose chase leading him to a hallucinating chase and a body on ice in a hotel room. Trying to understand what is happening, he is chased down by thugs who want Ryder’s phone.

All of that is interfering with his reconnection to Jody and that is setting Colt on edge, especially knowing that the cops are on his case. Colt and Jody come up with a plan that will hold those responsible accountable but not without a few stunts thrown in.

Gosling as Colt comes on with a stuntman swag that had me giggling from the very beginning. What is stellar about Gosling is that he can take on a heavy role and become so entangled in the character that its mesmerizing and with comedy, he has facial expressions that just brings out such fun and it’s fantastic. He did justice to the role of Colt.

Blunt as Jody has her own set of issues feeling like the jilted ex-girlfriend who is taking her frustration out on her film. Blunt gives her character indignation that all jilted girls feel but don’t have a chance to make a sci-fi about it. I just love everything Blunt does no matter if it’s a serious character or comedy, like Gosling, she makes magic happen.

Taylor-Johnson as Ryder is an actor that is full of himself and doesn’t think the rules of anything apply to him. He has everyone on the set on the verge of craziness but has Colt on the verge of being the best stuntman. Waddingham as Gail is a woman who basically spends her time trying to plump up everyone’s ego all while babysitting a straw in a drink of who-knows-what. At the top of her game, she isn’t about to let a stuntman and a girlfriend ruin her kingdom.

Other cast include Teresa Palmer as Iggy Starr, Stephanie Hsu as Alma Milan, Winston Duke as Dan Tucker, Matuse as Doone, Adam Dunn as Nigel and Ben Knight as Dressler. There are cameos by Lee Majors, Heather Thomas and Jason Momoa.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

THE FALL GUY comes with an Extended Cut with an additional twenty-minutes of never-before-seen footage featuring more action, more laughs and more stunts when purchased from Apple TV, Fandango at Home (formerly Vudu), Comcast Xfinity, Cox and Microsoft Movies & TV. The original film is available wherever you rent or buy movies.

If you are into nostalgia mixed with comedy then this is the film for you. The soundtrack is amazing, especially the scene of Colt lamenting with a Taylor Swift song (All Too Well). From the very beginning, the action is exactly what one would expect from a stunt man. As the story goes along, the comedy is just completely hilarious.

Gosling once again brings in a fun performance that made the film, especially for someone who remembers the 1908’s television series fondly, a walk down nostalgia lane delightful. Blunt brings in the calm in the midst of chaos and at the same time is so darn charming in the process. All of that together makes THE FALL GUY a really good family fun film that calls for pizza or popcorn at the very least on a Friday night! Cheer from start to finish!

In the end – what could possibly go right?

Meet LISA FRANKENSTEIN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and digital from director Zelda Williams and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the introduction of LISA FRANKENSTEIN.

It is 1989 and Lisa Swallow (Kathryn Newton) is dealing with the axe murdering of her mother, dealing with dad Dale (Joe Chrest) and the new wife Janet (Carla Guigino) along with step-sister Taffy (Lisa Soberano). That’s kind of a lot, so Lisa spends her time in the Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery which is annoying to the family.

After a weird night out with Taffy, bumping into her crush Michael (Henry Eikenberry) and a near assault by fellow teen Doug (Bryce Romero), leads Lisa back to the cemetery. Sitting at the grave of someone who died in 1837, a bolt of lightening strikes and The Creature (Cole Sprouse) comes to life. He is a love-struck young man who died from a lightening strike as well! Following Lisa home, Lisa realizes who he is and she wants to help the newly risen zombie.

When Dad and Janet come home to a dirt and debris mess from The Creature, Lisa tells them a story to cover up the truth. Janet is up in arms and hurls accusations at Lisa which is going to cause step-mommy dearest problems. Lisa and The Creature begin to put him back together in the oddest ways with a bond forming between the two. It is a body building bond that can possibly last into the great beyond!

Newton as Lisa is a young woman who doesn’t quite fit in with the other kids. Once she realizes that lightening brings good things, it is time for her to find happiness in the oddest way. Newton is subtly funny and it still made me laugh a lot. Sprouse as The Creature gets the best job of groaning, walking like a zombie and body part hunting. His physical and facial performance is everything and it had me laughing knowing exactly what The Creature was trying “to say”. Sprouse knew the assignment and turned it in on time.

Guigino as Janet has serious control issues and a bit of OCD where her perfect house is concerned. She also has a hair up about Lisa and makes sure to be insulting with a smile on her face. Guigino proving she can be a good gal and a bad gal all in the same role.  Chrest as Dale just goes along to get along with wife Janet.

Soberano as Taffy is the ‘good’ daughter who is funny, charming and well-liked by the family. She is the only one that seems to treat Lisa with any care, even if it is a little over the top. Eikenberry as Michael is good-looking school boy who uses his charm to but in the wrong way to get the wrong results.  

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

Bonus Features on Bluray and DVD include Deleted Scenes: Get Me Out of Hell!, Knock Knock, Music Lovers, Incredible Friend, Breaking News, and Gag Reel. Also, Resurrecting the 1980’s - Set in 1989, LISA FRANKENSTEIN is a loving tribute to the wacky, tacky, yet totally awesome 80s. Every department of production embraced the stylized world Diablo Cody created in her script and brought their A-game to making this colorful world a reality.

An Electric Connection – While it's no easy feat to turn a 19th century dead guy into the perfect boyfriend, this piece explores Lisa and her charming Creature and what makes their relationship work. Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse, and filmmakers explore how Lisa and Creature really need each other to truly thrive, why Creature is the “perfect man,” and Lisa’s choice at the end of the film.

And, A Dark Comedy Duo - Well-known for her ability to subvert genres, Diablo Cody delves into the inspiration behind LISA FRANKENSTEIN, what made her want to give the Frankenstein story a youthful, modern twist full of both horror and hilarity, and why Zelda Williams was the perfect choice to bring her story to life and Feature Commentary with Director Zelda Williams.

LISA FRANKENSTEIN is not only a fun comedy-horror film but surrounds itself in a bit of nostalgia in a time when the world wasn’t wrapped in technology. There are moments of laughter followed by jaw dropping fright without actually grossing me out. When the time comes for The Creature to do what he needs to, it is all in our heads, where it should be.

It is just all out fun actually and it is a film I have added to my Halloween binge watching collection. All good zombie/Frankenstein movies belong on that shelf because comedy and horror are absolutely fantastic separate and even more so together. So, prepare yourself for a new love story that will have you in stiches!

In the end – if you can’t meet your perfect boyfriend then make him!

 

 

They Are THE HOLDOVERS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Alexander Payne and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the togetherness of THE HOLDOVERS

It is 1970 and Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti) is considered a teacher at Barton Academy that no one wants to be around, students or staff. Known for his rules and strictness, it comes as no surprise when he is asked to stay behind at Barton Academy for the Christmas holidays and the ‘holdover’ students who have no place to go.

Agnus Tully (Dominic Sessa) is a forward student who doesn’t mind speaking his piece. Getting ready to go to Saint Kitts, he challenges Hunham’s decision about a test taking but karma has other plans. Tully’s mother burst the young man’s holiday bubble and now he is one of the holdovers. Also staying behind is Mary Lamb (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), the cafeteria administrator is grieving the loss of her son killed in Vietnam.

After a few days, some of the kids are taken off by one of the boys’ parents with the approval of staff. The only one left is Tully, now it is just a student, professor and cafeteria lady left behind. Hunham and Tully continually butt heads and argue with each other but something begins to happen between them as well.

Taking a trip to Boston, professor and student start talking, asking questions and realizing they have more in common than they could have ever imagined. Truths are told and pain is felt together when it becomes clear the reasons for Tully’s behavior and Hunham’s attitude about life in general.

They travel the road of redemption together.

Giamatti as Hunham is a man that is by the book and living with the ridicule of others. Being a professor, he is almost met with the distain of his students who do not see any reason to learn all that is learnable. When he tussles with student Agnus, there is verbal shots fired but when the smoke clears, there begins an understanding that is deep and palpable. This is a man who has been living a secluded life at the Barton Academy for reasons of his own and shut himself off from anyone that comes close to him. Giamatti always gives such a strong performance no matter what character he is playing but, in this film, Giamatti blossoms wonderfully.

Sessa as Tully is a young man who is trying to find his place in the world but in all the wrong ways. Constantly challenging Hunham at every turn, it becomes slowly clear what is driving his hostility and anger. Sessa gives his young character heart that is broken by the adults that are in his life that should be there for him instead of their own selfishness. When the layers begin to peel back, he sees that the man he has despised will be the adult who doesn’t let him down.   

Randolph as Mary is a woman grieving for the loss of her son trying to find a way to move forward. She isn’t happy about the holdover situation but does her job and surprisingly gets to know Hunham through the quiet of the school and the chance to just talk. Trying to deal with her grief over the holidays becomes a challenge and Hunham is there for her. Randolph gives her character moments of weakness where the grief becomes too much but also finds those who will be there for her. Randolph gives a gentle and heartbreaking performance.            

Other cast include Naheem Garcia as Danny, Carrie Preston as Lydia Crane, Tate Donovan as Stanley, Darby Lily as Elise, Andrew Garman as Dr. Hardy Woodrip, Brady Hepner as Teddy, Stephen Thorne as Thomas Tully, Gillian Vigman as Judy, Jan Dolley as Alex, Jim Kaplan as Ye-Joon, and Michael Provost as Jason Smith.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Collector’s Edition Bonus Feature include Alternate Ending – “Mary Continues On”, Deleted Scenes, Introduction by Alexander Payne, New Room, Making a Scene, The Road Back to Barton, Ancient History, The Cast of THE HOLDOVERS – Sit down with the cast of THE HOLDOVERS, including Paul Giamatti, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and newcomer Dominic Sessa while they discuss getting into the minds of their characters, Meet the boys of Barton and learn more about director Alexander Payne’s casting process, and Working with Alexander – Hear the cast and crew about their on-set experience working with acclaimed director Alexander Payne.

THE HOLDOVERS is a film in the same vein as TO SIR WITH LOVE (1967), DEAD POETS SOCIETY (1989), STAND AND DELIVER (1988), LEAN ON ME (1989), GOOD WILL HUNTING (1997), and MONA LISA SMILE (2003) and what makes these so memorable is the story, character and emotion that is relatable.

Having the right person lead the ensemble, meaning the teacher, is so very important and Paul Giamatti is absolutely the right person. Keeping the ensemble to three people allows us to get to know these characters and become truly invested in their lives. We all have had the school experience, the disappointment in grown-ups and the life challenges as adults. THE HOLDOVERS lets us in and allows us to be angry, grieve and celebrate what it means to be a growing human being in every aspect. Well done!

In the end – it is the season of discomfort and joy!