DVDBeaver Newsletter for the Week of
November 30th, 2020
http://www.dvdbeaver.com
Another strong week of reviews! Cronenberg in 4K
UHD, early PTA (Paul Thomas Anderson), essential noir with three films
reaching Blu-ray for the first time, one of the finest Hammer horrors, a
late Fellini, 90's Hong Kong swordplay fantasy, six classic Inner Sanctum
Mysteries to Blu-ray, a John Schlesinger gem reaches BD for the first time,
Tsai Ming-Liang's poignant love letter to cinema - again, first time to BD,
and a wonderful 70's serial-killer film with a young female protagonist.
Wow!
Gary
RELEASES the WEEK of November 30th, 2020
(Recommended titles have "**")
________________
**The Anderson Tapes**
[Blu-ray] (Sidney Lumet, 1971) Region FREE Indicator US (BEAVER REVIEW)
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film6/blu-ray_reviews_75/the_anderson_tapes_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: The Anderson Tapes is a very good heist film - it's not great -
but it is entertaining, especially if you are keen on the actors. The
director knows how to set pace and advance a story well, although it lacks a
sense of urgency. The Anderson Tapes has the recognizable 70's 'feel'. It
was a good choice to release on Blu-ray. The 1080P presentation is rich and
authentic looking and the package with the commentary etc. makes it a valued
purchase. Yes, strongly recommended!
________________
Apache [Blu-ray] (Robert
Aldrich, 1954) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/3ifkmRZ
COMMENTS: From Robert Aldrich comes this action-packed western that pulsates
with the power and passion of an Indian war drum. Apache explodes with
spectacular battle sequences, breathtaking chases and unbridled suspense.
After years of bloody fighting with settlers on the American frontier,
Apache Chief Geronimo is forced to submit to a humiliating surrender. But
his fiercest warrior, Massai (Burt Lancaster), refuses to accept defeat.
With enormous strength and razor-sharp cunning, Massai battles the
relentless U.S. Cavalry, struggling to stay one step ahead of the highly
trained soldiers who have sworn to track him down.
________________
**Attack** [Blu-ray] (Robert
Aldrich, 1956) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/3cKfZgv
COMMENTS: here’s dissension in the ranks during the Battle of the Bulge!
From Robert Aldrich comes this WWII classic starring Jack Palance, Lee
Marvin, Eddie Albert, Robert Strauss, Richard Jaeckel, Buddy Ebsen and Peter
van Eyck. When Lieutenant Joe Costa (Palance) learns that his men died
because their commander, Captain Cooney (Albert), was too much of a coward
to join the fight, Costa issues a serious warning: Don’t let it happen
again! But Cooney’s cowardice forces Costa into a fateful choice: continue
to risk the lives of his men... or take the life of the captain.
________________
Baby Driver [4K UHD Blu-ray]
(Edgar Wright, 2017) Sony
COMMENTS: Baby (Ansel Elgort) – a talented,
young getaway driver – relies on the beat of his personal soundtrack to be
the best in the game. When he meets the girl of his dreams (LILY JAMES),
Baby sees a chance to ditch his criminal life and make a clean getaway. But
after being coerced into working for a crime boss (Kevin Spacey), he must
face the music when a doomed heist threatens his life, love and freedom.
________________
The Barbarians [Blu-ray]
(Ruggero Deodato, 1987) Kino Lorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3hvOdp6
COMMENTS: An evil ruler Kadar (Richard Lynch) enslaves Canary, a beautiful
young queen (Virginia Bryant), and two twin boys from her clan. Canary’s
faithful servant takes one of the twins to a distant land where he grows
strong and powerful, while the other twin stays with the evil Kadar. With
the help of a young outlaw woman (Eva LaRue), the twins set out to free
their mother.
________________
Beverly Hills Cop [4K UHD
Blu-ray] (Martin Brest, 1984) Paramount
COMMENTS: The heat is on in this fast-paced
action-comedy starring Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley, a street-smart Detroit
cop tracking down his best friend's killer in Beverly Hills. Axel quickly
learns that his wild style doesn't fit in with the Beverly Hills Police
Department, which assigns two officers (Judge Reinhold and John Ashton) to
make sure things don't get out of hand. Dragging the stuffy detectives along
for the ride, Axel smashes through a huge culture clash in his hilarious,
high-speed pursuit of justice.
________________
Blade [4K UHD Blu-ray] (Stephen
Norrington, 1998) Warner Brothers
COMMENTS: A half-vampire, half-mortal man
becomes a protector of the mortal race, while slaying evil vampires.
________________
Bloodshot [4K UHD Blu-ray]
(Dave Wilson, 2020) Sony
COMMENTS: Based on the bestselling comic book,
Vin Diesel stars as Ray Garrison, a soldier recently killed in action and
brought back to life as the superhero Bloodshot by the RST corporation. With
an army of nanotechnology in his veins, he’s an unstoppable force –stronger
than ever and able to heal instantly. But in controlling his body, the
company has sway over his mind and memories, too. Now, Ray doesn’t know
what’s real and what’s not – but he’s on a mission to find out.
________________
**Bugs Bunny 80th Anniversary
Collection** [Blu-ray] - Warner Brothers
COMMENTS: Bugs Bunny first hopped onto the
screen in 1940 and he’s been a pop-culture icon ever since. More than eight
generations have enjoyed the timeless antics of the carrot-munching wise guy
who always outsmarts his rivals. Cartoons, movies, TV, comics, music, sports
and more – this wascally wabbit has done it all. Clever pranks and
one-liners are here, along with interviews with today’s most renowned
animators, historians and superstars. Enjoy the full range of his silly and
smart-alecky personality with 60 theatrical shorts restored and remastered
to their original 4x3 aspect ratio on Blu-ray for the first time. It's just
what the doctor – er, doc – ordered.
________________
**Chernobyl Mini-Series** [4K
UHD Blu-ray] (Craig Mazin, 2019) Warner Brothers
COMMENTS: This is a fascinating mini-series. The
Chernobyl disaster was shrouded for years in such a mystery of lies and
misinformation. It subtly pays homage to those who suffered - many surviving
in pain for years after - by focusing on individual stories as well as
giving an interesting take on the overview of the politicization of the
tragedy. Chernobyl is excellent entertainment and we may compare this
release to the US coming out in October. Perhaps it will look the same.
Regardless we strongly recommend seeing it.
________________
**Columbia Noir #1** [Blu-ray]
(Escape in the Fog, The Undercover Man, The Garment Jungle, Drive a Crooked
Road, 5 Against the House and The Lineup) RB UK Indicator
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_130/columbia_noir_volume_1_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: DVDBeaver loves Film Noir. I am delighted to now have The
Undercover Man and Drive a Crooked Road on Blu-ray. I love them both, but
especially the latter. The Lineup is one of the more coveted Noirs in this
boxset. But the huge bonus are the extras and new commentaries. One day
these may get released on individual Blu-ray by Indicator but with the
valued supplements - this limited edition is a must own for those who are
addicted to the 'Dark Cinema'. Our highest recommendation!
________________
**Coming to America** [4K UHD
Blu-ray] (John Landis, 1988) Paramount
COMMENTS: Join EDDIE MURPHY on an unforgettable
comic quest to the New World. As an African Prince, it’s time for him to
find a princess... and the mission leads him and his most loyal friend
(ARSENIO HALL) to Queens, New York. In disguise as an impoverished
immigrant, the pampered prince quickly finds himself a new job, new friends,
new digs, new enemies and lots of trouble. Keep an eye out for both Murphy
and Hall in some unforgettable cameo roles! Newly remastered in 4K with HDR,
from a supervised restoration by director John Landis, COMING TO AMERICA is
an essential comedy-classic for your collection.
________________
Continental Divide [Blu-ray]
(Michael Apted, 1981) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/36xA7Sj
COMMENTS: From Michael Apted, the acclaimed director of Coal Miner’s
Daughter, Gorky Park, Thunderheart, Extreme Measures and The World Is Not
Enough, comes this wonderful romantic comedy starring comedy legend John
Belushi. Ernie Souchak (Belushi) is a celebrated Chicago Sun-Times columnist
famous for his blistering political exposés. While his controversial
reporting has earned him the respect of his editor, Howard McDermott (Allen
Garfield), and the admiration of a legion of fans, it also earns him a trip
to the hospital following a run-in with some disgruntled thugs. Suggesting
he leave the city for a while, McDermott sends Ernie to the Rockies to
interview renowned ornithologist Nell Porter (Blair Brown), who studies the
habits of the endangered American bald eagle. It’s a case of loathe at first
sight when the chain-smoking, big city Souchak meets the reclusive
nature-lover Porter. But despite their differences, Souchak’s trip west soon
turns into a fun-filled romantic adventure as these two trek through the
mountains at the top of the world along the Continental Divide.
________________
**Crash** [Blu-ray] (David
Cronenberg, 1996) Criterion
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_130/crash_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: David Cronenberg's Crash is one of the most fascinating
large-budget films ever made. Some say it is akin to driving by a car
accident... and slowing down. I applaud the director's bravery and love all
his films for their uniqueness and bold, emotionally wrenching, expressions.
My ex-girlfriend was an editing intern on Crash. I loved revisiting this in
the image resolution of HD. The score is and effects are especially
effective in the lossless. It's such a curious film that it is ultimately
rewatchable over the years. I'm very happy with the Criterion Blu-ray for
both the 4K-restored, director approved a/v and the fabulous extras
including the invaluable commentary, Q+A and press conference. Our highest
recommendation!
________________
**Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon**
[4K UHD Blu-ray] (Ang Lee, 2000) Sony
COMMENTS: Two master warriors, Chow Yun Fat and
Michelle Yeoh, are faced with their greatest challenge when the treasured
Green Destiny sword is stolen. A young aristocrat (Zhang Ziyi) prepares for
an arranged marriage, but soon reveals her superior fighting talents and her
deeply romantic past. As each warrior battles for justice, they come face to
face with their worst enemy, and the inescapable, enduring power of love.
Set against 19th century China's breathtaking landscape, Crouching Tiger
Hidden Dragon is the action packed, box office smash from two time Best
Director Academy Award winner Ang Lee (Brokeback Mountain, 2005; Life of Pi,
2012) and featuring stunning martial arts choreography by Yuen Wo Ping (The
Matrix).
________________
D.C. Cab [Blu-ray] (Joel
Schumacher, 1983) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/34gGw18
COMMENTS: From Joel Schumacher comes this action-packed comedy about the
misadventures of a group of streetwise cabbies. Washington, D.C. becomes the
District of Comedy in this high-speed hit starring Adam Baldwin, Mr. T, Gary
Busey, Irene Cara and Bill Maher. When young Albert Hockenberry (Baldwin)
wants to become a cabbie, he’s got the wackiest teachers around, courtesy of
his uncle Howard (Max Gail) and the freewheeling D.C. Cab Co., including
Samson (Mr. T) and Dell (Busey). Along the way, Albert falls in love with
beautiful waitress Claudette (Jill Schoelen, The Stepfather) and gets caught
up in a kidnapping, with Mr. T and the other cabbies riding to the rescue.
From a raid on a topless club and a game of chicken with an oncoming train
to cameo appearances by top stand-up comedians, their hilarious hijinks
spell comedy with a “capital” C!
________________
The Equalizer 2 / Equalizer [4K
UHD Blu-ray] - Sony
COMMENTS: A man believes he has put his
mysterious past behind him and has dedicated himself to beginning a new,
quiet life. But when he meets a young girl under the control of
ultra-violent Russian gangsters, he can't stand idly by - he has to help
her. If you have a problem and there is nowhere else to turn, the mysterious
and elusive Robert McCall will deliver the vigilante justice you seek. This
time, however, McCall's past cuts especially close to home when thugs kill
Susan Plummer - his best friend and former colleague. Now out for revenge,
McCall must take on a crew of highly trained assassins who'll stop at
nothing to destroy him.
________________
The Fifth Element [4K UHD
Blu-ray] (Luc Besson, 1997) Sony
COMMENTS: Luc Besson's high octane film The
Fifth Element incorporates presidents, rock stars and cab drivers into its
peculiar plot, traversing worlds and encountering some pretty wild aliens.
Bruce Willis stars as a down-and-out cabbie who must win the love of Leeloo
(Milla Jovovich) to save Earth from destruction by Jean-Baptiste Emmanuel
Care (Gary Oldman) and a dark, unearthly force that makes Darth Vader look
like an Ewok. Ancient curses, all-powerful monsters, shape-changing
assassins, scantily-clad stewardesses, laser battles, huge explosions, a
perfect woman, a malcontent hero - what more can you ask of any big-budget
science fiction movie.
________________
He Came from the Swamp: The William
Grefé Collection [Blu-ray] - Sting of Death (1966), Death Curse of
Tartu (1966), The Hooked Generation (1968), The Psychedelic Priest (1971),
The Naked Zoo (1971), Mako: Jaws of Death (1976) and Whiskey Mountain (1977)
- Arrow UK
COMMENTS: Killer sharks and human jellyfish and
living mummies, oh my! Arrow Video is proud to present the first ever
collection of works by William Wild Bill Grefé, the maverick filmmaker who
braved the deep, dark depths of the Florida everglades to deliver some of
the most outrageous exploitation fare ever to go-go dance its way across
drive-in screens.
________________
Hellboy [4K UHD Blu-ray]
(Guillermo del Toro, 2004) Sony
COMMENTS: As dark forces gather to hasten the
Apocalypse, Hellboy (Ron Perlman) fights fire with fire in this
mind-blasting supernatural action-adventure from Guillermo del Toro, the
visionary Academy Award®-winning director of The Shape of Water (2017, Best
Director). Based on the celebrated Dark Horse comic book.
________________
**The Hobbit: Motion Picture Trilogy**
[4K UHD Blu-ray] (Extended & Theatrical) - Warner Brothers
COMMENTS: Peter Jackson journeys back to
Middle-earth with an all-new adventure following Bilbo Baggins, who’s swept
into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the
fearsome dragon Smaug. Bilbo, along with the company of thirteen dwarves and
the wizard Gandalf the Grey, encounter trolls, orcs, goblins, elves and the
mysterious Gollum.
________________
**The Irishman** [Blu-ray]
(Martin Scorsese, 2019) RB UK Criterion
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_130/the_irishman_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Martin Scorsese's Netflix production of "The Irishman" (based on
"I Heard You Paint Houses" by Charles Brandt) arrives on Blu-ray thanks to
the high degree of professionalism of Criterion. For those that were unable
to watch the film on the streaming service, this is a wonderful Blu-ray
presentation, with a impressive amount of extras. Recommended to Scorsese
fans and cinephiles in general.
________________
**The Legacy** [Blu-ray]
(Richard Marquand, 1978) Region FREE Indicator US
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film5/blu-ray_reviews_64/the_legacy_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: "The Legacy" features some fine tongue-in-cheek performances from
Katharine Ross and Sam Elliot (who shows off his backside, unless that was a
body double). The film finds a lot of unique ways to get around an otherwise
boilerplate spooky gothic castle plot. This Blu-ray from Indicator is
recommended to fans of the genre, not to mention the fine cast.
________________
**Lonesome Dove: Ultimate Blu-Ray
Collection** [Blu-ray] - Via Vision
COMMENTS: Magnificently presented, this
collection represents the culmination of Pulitzer-Prize-Winning Author Larry
McMurtry's epic Western saga on Blu-ray in a collectable hard box-set. The
Lonesome Dove Collection recounts the adventures of retired Texas Rangers
Gus McRae (Robert Duvall) and Woodrow Call (Tommy Lee Jones). Also featured
are the prequel's DEADMAN'S WALK, RETURN TO LONESOME DOVE, COMANCHE MOON and
STREETS OF LAREDO; a necessity for the avid classic-western fan!
________________
**Lord of the Rings, The: Motion Picture
Trilogy** [4K UHD Blu-ray] (Extended & Theatrical) - Warner
Brothers
COMMENTS: This critically acclaimed epic trilogy
follows the quest undertaken by the hobbit, Frodo Baggins, and his
fellowship of companions to save Middle-earth by destroying the One Ring and
defeating the evil forces of the Dark Lord Sauron.
________________
**Mission: Impossible: The Original TV
Series** [Blu-ray] - Paramount
COMMENTS: Be there for the legendary missions
that started it all! The original, Emmy-winning series that gave rise to a
blockbuster franchise debuts on Blu-ray in a 46-disc set that includes all
171 unforgettable episodes. In this iconic TV drama, the “Impossible
Missions Force” consists of extraordinary spies who are experts in their
fields: the Lead Agents (Steven Hill and Peter Graves), the Tech Expert
(Greg Morris), The Muscle (Peter Lupus), The Master of Disguise (Martin
Landau), Paris (Leonard Nimoy), Dana Lambert (Lesley Warren), The Doctor
(Sam Elliott) and The Femme Fatale (Emmy winner** Barbara Bain). Every day,
this elite force risks failure, capture and death... but nothing is more
important than their mission.
________________
New Fist of Fury [Blu-ray] (Wei
Lo, 1976) RB UK 88 Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/2ZOcTTp
COMMENTS: After Chen Zhen has been killed by the Japanese in Fist Of Fury,
his fiancee and some of his friends flee to Taiwan. Taiwan is also under
Japanese occupation, however, and they soon learn that the Taiwanese are
getting just as rough a deal as they were in Shanghai. Jackie Chan plays a
Taiwanese boy that hates the Japanese. He's head strong and courageous, but
refuses to learn Kung Fu, despite Nora Miao's best attempts to change his
mind. Eventually he snaps though, and signs up to New Jingwu Mun - where he
inexplicably becomes their most accomplished fighter in a few days. Nora is
so impressed, she agrees to teach him Chen Zhen's secret style - The Fist Of
Fury.
________________
The Night Porter [Blu-ray] (Liliana
Cavani, 1974) RB UK Cult Films
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film5/blu-ray_reviews_64/the_night_porter_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: This is the newest 4K restoration supervised by the director
herself, making this the most definitive version of The Night Porter,
finally doing justice to the filmmaker s extraordinary vision. Max (Dirk
Bogarde) is a night porter in a Vienna hotel in the 1950's. When beautiful
Lucia (Charlotte Rampling) checks in, they recognise each other from a
terrible past; Max was an SS officer in a Nazi concentration camp who had
abused and tortured the then teenage Lucia, a prisoner. Lucia is traveling
with her husband, an orchestra conductor and when he leaves to continue his
tour, Lucia stays behind as she and Max find themselves compelled to renew
their former, intense, sadomasochistic relationship.
________________
Panic [Blu-ray] (Tonino Ricci,
1982) Code Red
US:
https://amzn.to/3hKKJix
COMMENTS: An English village turns into a hunting ground when an unholy
bacterial experiment gone horribly wrong turns a local scientist into a
deformed, rampaging nightmare! With the population being picked off one by
one, it’s up to an intrepid police detective (David Warbeck, The Last
Hunter, The Beyond, Tiger Joe) and a sexy scientist (Janet Agren, The Gates
of Hell, Hands of Steel, Eaten Alive) to put a stop to this bloodthirsty
madness before the government steps in and wipes out the entire town!
Missing in action for decades since its reign as a popular ‘80s video
rental, this slimy slice of Italian horror is now remastered in HD for the
very first time!
________________
**Perry Mason: The Complete First
Season** [Blu-ray] (2020) - HBO
COMMENTS: The series focuses on the origin story
of famed defense lawyer Perry Mason. In 1932, Los Angeles is prospering
while the rest of the U.S. is recovering from the grip of the Great
Depression. Down-and-out private investigator Perry Mason is struggling with
his trauma from The Great War and being divorced. He is hired for a
sensational child kidnapping trial and his investigation portends major
consequences for Mason, his client, and the city itself.
________________
Pineapple Express [4K UHD
Blu-ray] (David Gordon Green, 2008) Sony Pictures
COMMENTS: Ride high on the Pineapple Express,
the outrageously hysterical blockbuster from Judd Apatow, the director and
screenwriter of Knocked Up. A lazy stoner (Seth Rogen) is the sole witness
to a murder by an evil drug lord (Gary Cole) and a corrupt cop (Rosie
Perez). Marked for death, he runs for his life, dragging his dazed dealer
(James Franco) and his supplier (Danny McBride) with him on a hilarious
pot-fueled adventure. Directed by David Gordon Green. Screenplay by Seth
Rogen & Evan Goldberg.
________________
**Popeye** [Blu-ray] (Robert
Altman, 1980) Paramount
COMMENTS: The legendary, beloved anvil-armed
sailor of the seven seas comes magically to life in a delightful musical,
starring Robin Williams as Popeye, directed by Robert Altman (Nashville).
Shelley Duvall is Popeye's devoted long-limbed sweetie, Olive Oyl, one of
many loveable characters who join the “sailor man” in his adventures in the
harbor town of Sweethaven.
________________
**The Reckless Moment**
[Blu-ray] (Max Ophüls, 1949) Region FREE US Indicator
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDReviews25/the_reckless_moment.htm
COMMENTS: What a beautifully crafted noir feature - a perfectly building
thriller from the masterful Ophuls. The Reckless Moment has it all including
one of my favorite 'Dark Cinema' gals, Joan Bennett. The Blu-ray a/v is a
huge improvement over the SD releases plus we get the valued documentary and
highly interesting 'James Mason' and Noir focused lectures and Q+A.
No-brainer for devotees of Film Noir. Another fabulous job by Indicator -
the Criterion of the UK!
________________
**Roman Holiday** [Blu-ray]
(William Wyler, 1953) Paramount UK
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/roman_holiday_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: William Wyler's Roman Holiday is brilliant, heart-warming
storytelling. He is the master of this. Hepburn gets more stunning as the
film runs and this is one of the top tier of all romantic comedies ever
made. The appearance is not crisp or pristine but it is quite an advancement
over the 12-year old DVD. The ending remains one of the great teasers in
film history. A strong package from Paramount - fans have been very patient
waiting for this on Blu-ray. An easy recommendation!
________________
Spring [Blu-ray] (Justin
Benson, Aaron Moorhead, 2014) RB UK 101 Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/2UpZX30
COMMENTS: On the run from the law after a bar-room brawl, troubled Evan
flees the US to Italy. Arriving completely alone and without a plan, he soon
meets the mysterious Louise, and quickly falls in love. But upon discovering
that there's more to her than meets the eye, he must decide just how far
he'll go for love.
________________
**Still Life** [Blu-ray]
(Zhangke Jia, 2006) Big World Pictures
US:
https://amzn.to/2UqJPyz
COMMENTS: Still Life, winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival
in 2006, is an empathetic portrait of those left behind by a modernizing
society and, as in director Jia Zhang-ke's earlier films (Platform, Unknown
Pleasures, The World), it is a unique hybrid of documentary and fiction. In
Still Life, great changes have come to the town of Fengjie due to the
construction of the Three Gorges hydro project: Countless families that had
lived there for many generations have had to relocate to other cities.
Fengjie's old town, which has a 2000-year history, has been torn down and
submerged forever, but its new neighborhood hasn't been finished yet. There
are still things that need to be salvaged and yet there are also things that
must be left behind. In Still Life, such life-changing choices face both
Sanming, a miner traveling to Fengjie in search of his ex-wife of sixteen
years, and Shen Hong, a nurse who has come to Fengjie to look for her
husband who she hasn't seen in two years. Both Sanming and Shen will find
who they're looking for, but in the process they too will have to decide
what is worth salvaging in their lives and what they need to let go of.
________________
**Trading Places** [Blu-ray]
(John Landis, 1983) Paramount
COMMENTS: The very rich and extremely greedy
Duke Brothers (Don Ameche and Ralph Bellamy) wager a bet over whether
“born-loser” Billy Ray Valentine (Eddie Murphy) could become as successful
as the priggish Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Akroyd) if circumstances were
reversed. So begins one of the funniest, most outrageous comedies of the
80s, cementing Eddie Murphy’s superstar status. Alongside the street-smarts
of Ophelia (Jamie Lee Curtis), Winthorpe and Valentine are a trio ready for
a riotous revenge that culminates on the commodities trading floor in New
York City. Trading Places is presented here newly remastered from a 4K film
transfer, under the supervision of director John Landis.
________________
Underworld [4K UHD Blu-ray]
(Len Wiseman, 2003) Sony
COMMENTS: In the Underworld, Vampires are a
secret clan of modern aristocratic sophisticates whose mortal enemies are
the Lycans (werewolves), a shrewd gang of street thugs who prowl the city's
underbelly. No one knows the origin of their bitter blood feud, but the
balance of power between them turns even bloodier when a beautiful young
Vampire warrior and a newly-turned Lycan with a mysterious past fall in
love. Kate Beckinsale and Scott Speedman star in this modern-day,
action-packed tale of ruthless intrigue and forbidden passion all set
against the dazzling backdrop of a timeless, Gothic metropolis.
________________
**Werewolf** [Blu-ray] (Adrian
Panek, 2018) Indiecan Entertainment Inc.
US:
https://amzn.to/3qb67Tm
COMMENTS: Children liberated from a Nazi concentration camp have to overcome
hunger, thirst and vicious dogs in an abandoned mansion surrounded by the
forest.
________________________________________________
NOTABLE NEW CALENDAR UPDATES:
November 30th
**Lonesome Dove: Ultimate Blu-Ray
Collectio**n - Via Vision
The Night Porter (Liliana
Cavani, 1974) RB UK Cult Films
**Roman Holiday** (William
Wyler, 1953) Paramount UK
December 7th
Good Neighbor Sam (David Swift,
1964) Sony Mod
**The Notorious Landlady**
(Richard Quine, 1962) Sony MoD
December 14th
**The Curse of Frankenstein**
(Terence Fisher, 1957) Warner Archives
Liberté (Albert Serra, 2019)
Cinema Guild
**Tex Avery Screwball Classics Volume
2** - Warner Archive
December 21st
**It Happened on Fifth Avenue**
(Roy Del Ruth, 1947) Warner Archive
**The Shop Around the Corner**
(Ernst Lubitsch, 1940) Warner Archive
January 11th
Buried Alive (Frank Darabont,
1990) Kino
January 25th
**The Masque of the Red Death**
(Roger Corman, 1964) RB UK Studiocanal
**The Young Master** (Jackie
Chan, 1980) RB UK 88 Films
February 16th
**Breach** (Billy Ray, 2007)
Mill Creek
February 15th
**Cash on Demand** (Quentin
Lawrence, 1961) Indicator UK
**Charade** (Stanley Donen,
1963) RB UK Criterion
**The Full Treatment** (Val
Guest, 1960) Indicator UK
**Never Take Candy from A Stranger**
(Cyril Frankel, 1960) Indicator UK
**The Snorkel** (Guy Green,
1958) Indicator UK
February 22nd
**The Grand Budapest Hotel**
(Wes Anderson, 2014) RB UK Criterion
March 8th
**Mädchen in Uniform** (Leontine
Sagan, Carl Froelich, 1931) RB UK BFI
________________________________________________
Photo Archives" for Patrons:
Gloria Grahame:
Monica Vitti:
Paul Newman:
Susan George:
Jacqueline Bisset:
Suzanne Pleshette:
THIS WEEK'S REVIEWS:
**I Start Counting** BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/i_start_counting_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: David Greene's I Start Counting is a very interesting film. It
deviates from a typical serial-killer effort although the tension is always
present. We have juvenile infatuation, fantasy and sexual maturity with the
subtext of an ever-present crime mystery. With the 'relative' being a major
suspect very aptly identified by Samm Deighan by comparing it to Hitchcock's
Shadow of a Doubt. I had never seen I Start Counting before and found it
immensely satisfying - there is plenty of depth to this film. This also
marks the first Fun City Editions Blu-ray I've reviewed and I'm extremely
pleased with their work on this package - a exceptional film choice, a great
commentary, and visual essay plus the participation of Jenny Agutter (a
favorite actress.) This get a high recommendation. Don't miss it!
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**Goodbye, Dragon Inn** BD
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/goodbye_dragon_inn_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: This 4K restoration of Tsai Ming-Liang's "Goodbye, Dragon Inn" (or
at least the 2019 Venice festival screening) was approved by the director
himself, according to the included interview. The visuals on display put the
older SD DVD releases to shame. Fans of the film (myself included) can
appreciate the even better sound mixing, here in both the surround Audio and
stereo. The extras are few but precious, as the interview with Tsai is worth
the price of admission alone. This Blu-ray is highly recommended to fellow
'slow cinema' fans.
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**The Day of the Locust** BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/day_of_the_locust_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Fans of "The Day of the Locust" can finally enjoy the film on
Blu-ray thanks to Australian label Via Vision (Imprint). It's the extras
make this very appealing, with yet another stellar commentary from Kat
Ellinger, as well as an informative and well-produced piece with Kim Newman,
not to mention that interview with Atherton. While the Blu-ray image is less
effectual in this format, it is really a function of the available, and
utilized, source as well as the filmmaker's preference. Not everything
transfers well to Blu-ray. The linear PCM stereo audio, however, is
appreciated. Recommended on the strength of the film, itself, and the
wonderful supplements.
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**Inner Sanctum Mysteries** BD
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/inner_sanctum_mysteries_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: My enthusiasm for these Inner Sanctum Mysteries hasn't decreased
one iota. The vast improvement in a/v only adds further to the incredible
nostalgic appeal, regardless of Pillow of Death's compromised source. Climb
right into these gems and totally forget the evil 2020. The overflowing
historically-based extras with the three new commentaries and equal number
of new featurettes (the DVD set was totally bare bones) are icing on the
cake. Very sweet. I'm so pleased to own these on Mill Creek Blu-ray (who
have escalated a full notch in my estimation) so much that I may get their
Hammer Films - Ultimate Blu-ray Collection yet. 20 films, a half-dozen
commentaries... I digress - This Inner Sanctum Mysteries Blu-ray collection
has our highest recommendation! Go away 2020!
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**Crash** 4K UHD
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_130/crash_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Well, to some we may have the 'law of diminishing returns' for the
new 4K UHD package. Just to sell it - as well as a very rich and
grain-drenched image (which I find appropriately darker for the film's tone)
but you get a similar (if slightly inferior in the audio department) Blu-ray
presentation, to the Criterion, included as a second disc! Plus there are
significant and great extras, if missing out on the invaluable Cronenberg
commentary. There is plenty of value here and if we can compare to the
upcoming Arrow - we will do so as soon as possible.
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**The Bride With White Hair**
BD
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/the_bride_with_white_hair_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Ronny Yu's The Bride with White Hair is a wild ride - full of eye
candy, kinetic action and mythic fantasy. Brigitte Lin? Leslie Cheung? I'm
there. Not only does the film satisfy, it's 4K-restored, and the extras are
endless with commentaries, interviews and the booklet. The Eureka Blu-ray is
a keeper for fans of this genre. Well done.
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**Intervista** BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/intervista_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Federico Fellini's Intervista is more of the director's nostalgia,
philosophy of memory and film-within-a-film magic. Eventually, we realize
that there is no difference between the genuine 'reality' and what is
scripted or 'off the cuff' playful fun. This is highly interesting
later-Fellini and has great supplements - part of Criterion's Essential
Fellini Blu-ray package.... that we strongly recommend.
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**The Brides of Dracula** BD
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film4/blu-ray_reviews_61/brides_of_dracula_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Well, it's such a shame that Shout! Factory dropped the ball on
the video because their extras are easily the best with excellent Haberman/
Nasr commentary, two 'The Men Who Made Hammer' episodes, the Huckvale piece
and "The Making of Brides of Dracula", 'The Haunted History of Oakley Court'
etc.. The poor video is exemplified by this being many fans favorite Hammer
horror... even if it doesn't have Christopher Lee. Shout! should do one
ratio and do it right rather than 'scatter their forces' on one disc. Some
may appreciate the 1.85:1 and it's lack of grain but we suggest that
purchasers consider this solely for the excellent supplements. The
bare-bones Universal Blu-ray package is still a great deal...
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Love Express BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/love_express_disappearance_walerian_borowczyk_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Walerian Borowczyk passed away in 2006 at 82-years old. This
fascinating documentary details his short animated film career in the 1950s,
his move to France in the1960s and live-action cinema, and the controversial
explicit content where he continued to push the envelope with his filmmaking
career being forgotten by directing Emmanuelle 5 as his second last film.
Love Express. The Disappearance of Walerian Borowczyk is about as
interesting as it gets considering he was a relatively well-known
contributor to art-house cinema - and we have reviewed more than a 1/2 dozen
of his films on disc.
"Eroticism, sex, is one of the most moral parts
of life. Eroticism does not kill, exterminate, encourage evil, lead to
crime. On the contrary, it makes people gentler, brings joy, gives
fulfillment, leads to selfless pleasure." - Walerian Borowczyk
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**Essential Film Noir: Collection 1**
BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_131/essential_film_noir_collection_one_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Imprint's Essential Film Noir: Collection 1 is a very appealing
Blu-ray boxset. I was so happy to finally have Framed, Alias Nick Beal and
Detective Story on Blu-ray. All three are excellent films! And here we get a
commentary feast with the great Alan K. Rode and Eddie Muller plus the
visual essay. The package itself is totally functional fitting the four
individual transparent cases with easy, simple access. Hard to resist for
Film Noir devotees. It has our highest recommendation to that niche.
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**Hard Eight** BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_133/hard_eight_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Paul Thomas Anderson's Hard Eight remains brilliant and continues
to improve with repeat viewings - foreshadowing of great thing on his
filmmaking horizon. Even if you didn't miss the DVD back in 1999, this
easily a double-dip (look at that last image comparison of Sydney with the
gun!) This is a huge Blu-ray release and definitely elevates Imprint in my
eyes. I'm anxious from more from them. We suggest getting this NOW rather
than waiting for it to become unavailable - likely it's destiny. It's one of
my favorite Blu-ray releases this year. Don't miss it.
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