Looks like it’s another full week with some interesting releases in just about every category imaginable. As always, there are links to full reviews where you can read more about several of these new titles. So, if you can’t make it out to the movies this week, be sure to check something out from this list!
Big New Releases!
Argento’s Dracula – Renowned Italian horror director Dario Argento brings the classic Bram Stoker tale to screen in the most bizarre manner possible. The story and period setting is familiar, but the acting and many of the bizarre personal touches may strike many as unintentionally hilarious. At least that was how most critics felt about the film. It features Thomas Kretschmann as the titular vampire, along with Rutger Hauer as Van Helsing. For those hoping to see this flick in 3D (as it was originally filmed), the Blu-ray does contain both 2D and 3D versions. To read the site’s original full length review of this odd marvel, click here. To learn about other titles from the director, check out parts one, two and three of our Nightmares in Deep Red retrospective.
Ass Backwards – A pair of childhood friends who finished last in their small, hometown beauty pageant reunite many years later to return home and re-enter the competition. The press weren’t kind about this independent comedy. They suggesting that the script leaves its talented performers little to work with, relying on the cheapest and most derivative of gags. Now interested parties can make up their own minds. The film stars June Diane Raphael, Casey Wilson, Jon Cryer, Vincent D’Onofrio, Bob Odenkirk and Paul Scheer.
The Cat – This feline-themed South Korean horror flick follows a young pet groomer who inherits a cat after its owner dies mysteriously. Ghosts appear and bodies pile up. Unfortunately, the movie didn’t resonate with members the press who managed to catch up with it. They called it a slickly produced but less than frightening collection of generic Asian horror film tropes. Despite being originally released in its homeland in 2011, it is only now finding a North American DVD release.
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 – As sequels go, this effort seemed to please both audiences and critics. This hit follows its protagonists from the first film, who discover a machine on a remote island that is creating hybrid animal-food beasts. These creatures include living pickles and taco-crocodiles. Bill Hader, Anna Faris, James Caan, Will Forte, Andy Samberg, Benjamin Bratt, Neil Patrick Harris, Terry Crews and Kristen Schaal provide the voice talent. The press found it agreeable kid’s entertainment with plenty of visual panache. Fans will also be able to pick up a 3D version on Blu-ray.
Concussion – The plot of this independent drama features middle-aged, lesbian housewife who takes a blow to the head and as a result finds herself becoming more uninhibited about her wants and desires. It received a very limited release, but those who did see it ended up giving it mostly positive reviews. It was also nominated for an Independent Spirit Award. While some described it as somewhat slow moving, others called it a unique story featuring an impressive performance from star Robin Weigert. Adventurous viewers may want to check it out.
The Fifth Estate – Based on real life WikiLeaks whistle-blower Julian Assange, this drama follows its subject as he founds his website. Events soon take a bad turn after Assange and his co-founder butt heads over intelligence documents that come into their possession. Despite most members of the press finding Benedict Cumberbatch’s lead performance impressive, the movie was met with mostly negative reviews. Many called it bland, lacking insight, and ineffective as a thriller. The film also flopped at the box office. Read the original review here.
Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa – Of all the films being released this week on Blu-ray and DVD, few would have predicted that this lewd comedy would be the one to earn an Academy Award nomination. This box office smash features Johnny Knoxville disguised in old age make up (the make-up effects received the Oscar nod) traveling alongside his precocious grandson and pranking random everyday Americans. While it didn’t receive raves, reaction to the film was still mostly positive. Many critics admitted that several of the crass put-ons were ultimately effective. Reportedly, Her director Spike Jonze also appears in make-up as an elderly woman.
Last Vegas – More grandpa-themed comedy can be found in this feature that was a minor hit at the box office only a couple of months ago. The story follows a long time single senior who finally pops the question to his girlfriend. His buddies decide to throw him a debauched Vegas bachelor party. Michael Douglas stars with Robert DeNiro, Morgan Freeman and Kevin Kline. The film itself received poor notices – most called it a middle-of-the-road effort that doesn’t give its impressive cast a good enough script to work with. Perhaps it will play better on the small screen.
Metallica: Through the Never – Any fans of heavy metal will want to check out this feature film, which is arriving in multiple formats including DVD, Blu-Ray and 3D Blu-ray. It uses live concert footage of the band interspersed into a narrative about a roadie who gets in over his head while attempting to run an errand. The movie stars Metallica and Dane DeHaan as the exasperated crew member. Reviewers felt that it was better than average for these types of movies and praised the technical craft and strong visuals. Of course, personal enjoyment will vary depending on how much you like the band.
Rush – This extremely well received drama from director Ron Howard was one of the best reviewed films of the year. It follows the fierce rivalry between two famed Formula 1 drivers as well as the many trials and tribulations that they faced both on and off the race track. Chris Hemsworth and Golden Globe nominee Daniel Bruhl star as two radically different personalities whose competitiveness somehow manages to provoke each other to surprising heights. The film’s subject matter didn’t lead to box office success, but critics praised the performances and themes explored. However, there were a few dissenting opinions. Read this site’s original full length review here.
1: The Movie (Formula 1) – For those still wanting to know even more about Formula 1 driver Nikki Lauda and James Hunt (the subjects of the film Rush) this documentary may provide more answers. Michael Fassbender narrates clips chronicling the history of the “golden age” of Formula 1 racing. It features interviews with the real Lauda and Hunt, as well as drivers like Mario Andretti, Michael Schumacher, Jackie Stewart, Sebastian Vettel and Jacky Ickx.
Blasts from the Past!
It’s a slow week in this department folks. The only relevant title is a double feature Blu-ray from the unusually reliable Shout! Factory, containing forgotten creature features The Beast of Hollow Mountain (1956) and The Neanderthal Man (1953). These aren’t particular renowned titles within in their genre. However, if anyone reading is a fan of stop-motion dinosaur/caveman/saber-toothed tiger action, they may want to give it a shot regardless. At least this will be the finest quality version available.
You Know, For Kids!
There are a couple of new titles for little tykes – these are the major ones.
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 – See above.
Danny Phantom: The Complete Series
Lego: Legends of Chima: Season 1, Part 1
Steven Spielberg: Pinky, Elmyra & the Brain: The Complete Series
On the Tube!
The big one this week is PBS’s release of the latest season of BBC series Downton Abbey. Those who pick up the DVD will be able to see all of the episodes before they air on television.
Bonny & Clyde (miniseries)
Masterpiece: Downton Abbey: Season 4
Treme: The Complete 4th Season
Vera: Set 3