Post by: addicted2dvd on June 27, 2016, 07:01:12 PM
July Movie Marathon
(https://s31.postimg.org/seg4wz8u3/musicals.jpg)
Musicals
OMG! What was I thinking!?!
A while back ago Danae Cassandra and I was sitting at the breakfast table talking about stuff when the time I freaked everyone out and watched a whole weekend of musicals. Without thinking I spurted out "How do you think they would react if I did one of my month long marathons with musicals?" And the next thing I knew we were all planning it for July.
So *GULP* you can read both our reviews here in this thread. Some movies we will be watching together. Other films she may watch on her own and some I may watch on my own. The family here is having fun with the idea of torturing me for the entire month...some even betting on how many I will actually get watched. Brittany had no faith in me and says I might get in 6 the entire month. Others are thinking maybe 12. What do I think? No idea... but I would love to see their faces if I got in 31... would be an average of 1 a day! Not saying it will happen... but maybe it would shut them up! LOL
Below is our collection lists. Note: We are going with the genre in DVD Profiler. Most these we either never seen or been a very long time to know for certain.
(https://s31.postimg.org/seg4wz8u3/musicals.jpg)
Musicals
OMG! What was I thinking!?!
A while back ago Danae Cassandra and I was sitting at the breakfast table talking about stuff when the time I freaked everyone out and watched a whole weekend of musicals. Without thinking I spurted out "How do you think they would react if I did one of my month long marathons with musicals?" And the next thing I knew we were all planning it for July.
So *GULP* you can read both our reviews here in this thread. Some movies we will be watching together. Other films she may watch on her own and some I may watch on my own. The family here is having fun with the idea of torturing me for the entire month...some even betting on how many I will actually get watched. Brittany had no faith in me and says I might get in 6 the entire month. Others are thinking maybe 12. What do I think? No idea... but I would love to see their faces if I got in 31... would be an average of 1 a day! Not saying it will happen... but maybe it would shut them up! LOL
Below is our collection lists. Note: We are going with the genre in DVD Profiler. Most these we either never seen or been a very long time to know for certain.
| My Musical Collection | Danae Cassandra's Musical Collection |
Note:Titles in Bold I Never Seen. Beware Broken Strings Earth Girls are Easy Fiddler on the Roof Gentlemen Prefers Blondes Grease Grease II Hi-Di-Ho Jack and the Beanstalk Mystery in String The Nightmare Before Christmas The Pied Piper from Hamelin Road to Bali Snow White and the Seven Dwarves Song of Freedom A Star is Born There's No Business Like Show Business Tommy West Side Story | The 3 Penny Opera 42nd Street 101 Dalmatians 1776 Affair in Trinidad Aladdin All-American Co-Ed Alice in Wonderland (1951) Amadeus An American in Paris Anchors Aweigh Apache Rose The Apple April in Paris The Aristocats The Arizona Kid Astaire and Rogers: Partners in Rhythm Babes in Toyland Bad Man of Deadwood The Band Wagon Barbie: A Perfect Christmas Barbie: The Princess and the Pauper The Barkleys of Broadway Bathing Beauty Beach Blanket Bingo Beach Party Beauty and the Beast Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas Bedknobs and Broomsticks Begin Again Bells of Rosarita The Bells of San Angelo The Bells of St. Mary's Best Foot Forward The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas Billy the Kid Returns Black Tights (1-2-3-4 ou Les Collants noirs) Bollywood Queen Bound for Glory Brigadoon The Broadway Melody Broadway Melody of 1940 Buck Privates The Busby Berkley Disc Bye Bye Birdie Cabaret Cabin in the Sky Cadillac Records Calamity Jane Camelot Can-Can Captain January Career Girl Carefree Carmen Carmen Jones The Carson City Kid Cats Une cambre en ville Chicago Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Cinderella (1950) Cinderella (1957) Coal Miner's Daughter Colorado Cowboy and the Senorita Crossroads (1986) Curly Top Dames Dancer in the Dark Dangerous When Wet A Day at the Races Days of Jesse James De-Lovely Dimples Dirty Dancing Doll Face The Dolly Sisters Donkey Skin The Doors Double or Nothing Down Argentine Way Du Barry Was a Lady The Duke is Tops Dumbo East Side of Heaven Easy to Love Easy to Wed Easter Parade El amor brujo Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas The Fabulous Dorseys Fantasia Fantasia 2000 The Far Frontier Farinelli Fiesta Fiddler on the Roof Finian's Rainbow Flower Drum Song Flying Down to Rio Follow the Fleet Footlight Parade Frozen Funny Face Funny Girl The Gay Divorcee The Gay Ranchero Gene Kelly: Anatomy of a Dancer Gentlement Prefer Blondes Gigi The Girl Next Door Goin' to Town Going My Way Gold Diggers in Paris Gold Diggers of 1933 Gold Diggers of 1935 Gold Diggers of 1937 Grand Canyon Trail Grease The Great Ziegfeld Guys and Dolls Gypsy Hallelujah Hands Across the Border Hans Christian Andersen A Hard Day's Night Heart of the Golden West Hedwig and the Angry Inch Heldorado Help! Hercules (1997) Here Come the Waves Hi De Ho Hi Diddle Diddle High Society Holiday Inn Hollywood Canteen Hollywood Hotel Home in Oklahoma The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) The Hunchback of Notre Dame II Iceland I'm Not There If I Had My Way Immortal Beloved In Old Caliente It Ain't Hay It's a Great Feeling Jamboree The Jazz Singer (1927) Jericho (1937) Just Around the Corner The King and I King of the Cowboys Killer Diller Kiss Me Kate Labyrinth Lady and the Tramp Let's Go Collegiate Lights of Old Santa Fe The Lion King The Little Mermaid Little Miss Broadway Little Shop of Horrors (1986) The Littlest Rebel THe Love Parade Lullaby of Broadway Make Mine Music Mame Mamma Mia! Man of La Mancha Mary Poppins Meet Me In St. Louis Melody Time Les Miserables Million Dollar Mermaid Minstrel Man Monkey Business Monte Carlo Moon Over Miami Moulin Rouge! (2001) Mulan The Muppets The Muppets Take Manhattan Muscle Beach Party The Music Man (1962) My Blue Heaven My Fair Lady My Favorite Blonde My Pal Trigger Nashville Neptune's Daughter Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist Night and Day The Nightmare Before Christmas Nine Nowhere Boy Oklahoma! Oliver! Oliver and Company On an Island With You On the Town Once One Hour With You Opera Jawa Pagan Love Song Paint Your Wagon Paradise in Harlem Pennies From Heaven Pete's Dragon Peter Pan (1953) The Phantom of the Opera (2004) The Pied Piper of Hamelin Pinocchio Pocahontas Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World The Princess and the Frog Princess Tam Tam Private Buckaroo The Proud Valley The Ranger and the Lady Ray Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm Reet, Petite and Gone Rent La Revue des Revues Riding High Road to Singapore Roberta Robin and the 7 Hoods Robin Hood of the Pecos Rock My World The Rocky Horror Picture Show Roll on Texas Moon Romance on the High Seas Rough Riders Round-Up Round Midnight Royal Wedding Saawariya Saludos Amigos San Francisco Second Chorus Selena Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Shall We Dance (1937) Sherriff of Tombstone Show Boat Sid and Nancy Silver Spurs Singin' in the Rain The Singing Detective Ski Party Sleeping Beauty (1959) The Slipper and the Rose The Smiling Lieutenant Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Something to Sing About The Sound of Music South Pacific Springtime in the Sierras Stage Door Canteen A Star is Born Starlift State Fair (1945) State Fair (1962) The Story of Bernon and Irene Castle Sunset Serenade Susannah of the Mounties Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street Swing Time Take Me Out to the Ball Game The Tales of Hoffmann Tangled Tea for Two The Tender Trap Thank Your Lucky Stars That's Entertainment! That's Entertainment II That's Entertainment III There's No Business Like Show Business This is the Army This Time for Keeps The Three Caballeros Three Smart Girls Thrill of Romance Till the Clouds Roll By Tommy Top Hat Topsy-Turvy Trocadero The Tunnel of Love The Umbrellas of Charbourg Under California Skies Under California Stars Under the Roofs of Paris The Unsinkable Molly Brown Up in the Air (1940) Utah Varsity Show La Vie en Rose Waikiki Wedding Walk the Line Wall Street Cowboy West of the Badlands The West Point Story With a Song in My Heart: The Jane Froman Story The Wizard of Oz A Woman is a Woman Xanadu Yankee Doodle Dandy The Yellow Rose of Texas Young Bill Hickok Young Buffalo Bill Zou Zou |
So couple questions...
1. Is there any in the above list that I never seen (in bold) that I must see?
2. what's your bet? How many will I get through before the month of July is over?
Post by: GSyren on June 28, 2016, 08:10:43 PM
If you like The Who: Tommy
If you like The Beatles: A Hard Day's Night, Help!
Fantasia, for sure!
If you like Dick van Dyke: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Little Shop of Horrors is a favorite of mine.
Lots of great movies. There are several that I would say are only marginally musicals. Really hard to pick.
For some reason I get the feeling that Danae likes musicals a little bit more than you do. ;)
Post by: Danae Cassandra on June 29, 2016, 05:02:51 AM
Lots of great movies. There are several that I would say are only marginally musicals. Really hard to pick.
For some reason I get the feeling that Danae likes musicals a little bit more than you do. ;)
Maybe just a little. :laugh:
I'd agree some are only marginally musicals. There are a lot of Roy Rogers pictures listed. :P
Post by: addicted2dvd on June 30, 2016, 04:43:48 PM
Ok, who are you and what have you done with Pete? :hmmmm:Pete don't live here any more.
If you like The Who: Tommy
If you like The Beatles: A Hard Day's Night, Help!
Fantasia, for sure!
If you like Dick van Dyke: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Little Shop of Horrors is a favorite of mine.
Lots of great movies. There are several that I would say are only marginally musicals. Really hard to pick.
I actually do want to fit in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang... as I always liked Dick Van Dyke and Not sure if I ever seen that one or not. If I did I was so young I don't remember it at all.
For some reason I get the feeling that Danae likes musicals a little bit more than you do. ;)Maybe just a hair more. :P
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 01, 2016, 12:04:22 AM
American Horror Story - The Name Game (Season 2 Episode 10)
The Brady Bunch - Amatuer Nite (Season 4 Episode 16)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer - Once More with Feeling (Season 6 Episode 7)
Fringe - Brown Betty (Season 2 Episode 20)
Gilligan's Island - The Producer (Season 3 Episode 4)
Grey's Anatomy - Song Beneath the Song (Season 7 Episode 18)
House - Bombshells (Season 7 Episode 15)
How I Met Your Mother - Girls vs. Suites (Season 5 Episode 12)
I Love Lucy - Lucy Goes to Scotland (Season 5 Episode 7)
Scrubs - My Musical (Season 6 Episode 6)
That '70s Show - That '70s Musical (Season 4 Episode 24)
The X-Files - Improbable (Season 9 Episode 13)
Xena: The Warrior Princess - Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (Season 2 Episode 4)
Xena: The Warrior Princess - The Bitter Suite (Season 3 Episode 12)
Xena: The Warrior Princess - A Tale of Two Muses (Season 4 Episode 6)
Xena: The Warrior Princess - Lyre Lyre, Hearts on Fire (Season 5 Episode 10)
Post by: Achim on July 01, 2016, 10:33:46 AM
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 01, 2016, 05:26:29 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883904169161f.jpg) | Fame: Rental Exclusive (2009/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fame_(2009_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1016075/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ua0iO-JQwAg) |
|
Stars:
Kay Panabaker as Jenny Garrison
Walter Perez as Victor Tavares
Naturi Naughton as Denise Dupree
Asher Book as Marco
Kherington Payne as Alice Ellerton
Plot:
Passions will be tested. Hearts will be broken. Talent, dedication and hard work will triumph! In this soaring and inspiring reinvention of the Oscar®-Winning hit film*, a group of highly gifted dancers, singers musicians and actors at the New York City High School of Performing Arts strive to live out their dreams and shine!
* Fame, 1980: Original Score, Original Song ("Fame")
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
My Thoughts:
This one took a bit for me to get through. The idea for the story line is good... I remember enjoying the story line of the original. But I am not all that thrilled with the execution of it. Sure the kids are talented but they didn't flesh out the kids enough to make you care about them. Now maybe this is because there is so many of them you need to follow in such a movie but I found myself only caring about one or two of the students. And in my opinion at least...they should have been able to do a little better then that.
One of the things I hate about musicals is how people burst out into song for no reason what so ever... at least in this story that makes sense. But in the case of this film I found it to be no more then average which made it all that more difficult for me to get through the whole musical aspect. Not one I feel comfortable recommending... if the story line sounds good to you go with the 1980 original.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 01, 2016, 07:37:59 PM
Xena: Warrior Princess - Season 2 Episode 4: Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Xena is forced to take on the Bacchae - bloodthirsty minions of the wine god, Bacchus - to get to their power-hungry leader and foil his plan to take over the world.
My Thoughts:
While this I wouldn't actually consider this one as a musical... there is enough music in it that I will let it count. I enjoyed this episode. More so for the Bachae then anything else. Which is very similar to vampires. They survive by feeding on blood... have fangs... the works. Definitely worth the time put in to watch it.
My Rating:
While this I wouldn't actually consider this one as a musical... there is enough music in it that I will let it count. I enjoyed this episode. More so for the Bachae then anything else. Which is very similar to vampires. They survive by feeding on blood... have fangs... the works. Definitely worth the time put in to watch it.
My Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 02, 2016, 04:59:13 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929237586f.jpg) | Singin' in the Rain (1952/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045152/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singin%27_in_the_Rain) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fp7Ao6Zk_Mc) |
|
Stars:
Gene Kelly as Don Lockwood
Donald O'Connor as Cosmo Brown
Debbie Reynolds as Kathy Selden
Jean Hagen as Lina Lamont
Millard Mitchell as R.F. Simpson
Plot:
Silent movies are giving way to talking pictures – and a hoofer-turned-matinee idol (Gene Kelly) is caught in that bumpy transition, as are his buddy (Donald O'Connor), prospective ladylove (Debbie Reynolds) and shrewish costar (Jean Hagen). Rediscover the musical masterpiece, Singin' in the Rain, in dazzling, restored high definition, featuring an all-new documentary special feature that salutes not just this all-time favorite but also the musical legacy of its producer, songwriter Arthur Freed.
Extras:
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Juke Box Jump-to-Song Feature
My Thoughts:
This is one I enjoyed quite a bit... actually more then I thought I would. It helps that this one was right funny. Was never familiar with Donald O'Connor before this film but he reminds me of another classic actor I like a lot. He reminds me a lot od Dick Van Dyke in his style of humor. I would say this is worth the time put in to watch it. I can even see myself adding it to my collection at some point.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 02, 2016, 05:27:57 PM
Post by: GSyren on July 02, 2016, 06:33:28 PM
Who are you, and what... No, wait, I already did that, didn't I? So, is Danae holding a gun to your head, or what? ???
Or maybe she has hopnotized you! "You like musicals. You like musicals. You like musicals!"
Everything I thought I knew has been turned upside down! What's next? Jimmy saying he doesn't like sexploitation? ;)
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 03, 2016, 03:42:04 AM
Who are you, and what... No, wait, I already did that, didn't I? So, is Danae holding a gun to your head, or what? ???
Or maybe she has hopnotized you! "You like musicals. You like musicals. You like musicals!"
You never know, do you? *evil cackle*
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 03, 2016, 05:22:47 AM
Singin' in the Rain
Year of Release: 1952
Directed By: Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
Starring: Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagan, Millard Mitchell
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Musical
Overview:
Silent movies are giving way to talking pictures – and a hoofer-turned-matinee idol (Gene Kelly) is caught in that bumpy transition, as are his buddy (Donald O'Connor), prospective ladylove (Debbie Reynolds) and shrewish costar (Jean Hagen). Rediscover the musical masterpiece, Singin' in the Rain, in dazzling, restored high definition, featuring an all-new documentary special feature that salutes not just this all-time favorite but also the musical legacy of its producer, songwriter Arthur Freed.
My Thoughts:
This is a near perfect film. It has a great story, great performances, a lot of chemistry between its characters, memorable songs and beautiful choreography. It's also a lot of fun to watch. There's nothing particularly serious here; it's light, romantic and amusing. O'Connor's "Make 'Em Laugh" is great, and Kelly's "Singin' in the Rain" is classic Hollywood.
An absolute must-see for fans of musicals, or American film; this is one of the best examples of a big-budget, classic Hollywood musical. Highly recommended.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4.5/5
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 03, 2016, 02:30:12 PM
Who are you, and what... No, wait, I already did that, didn't I? So, is Danae holding a gun to your head, or what? ???
Or maybe she has hopnotized you! "You like musicals. You like musicals. You like musicals!"
You never know, do you? *evil cackle*
(https://cdn.meme.am/instances/57070436.jpg)
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 03, 2016, 02:42:32 PM
That '70s Show - Season 4 Episode 24: That '70s Musical
Fez is hurt and upset when he thinks the gang can't be bothered to come hear him sing in the school's spring concert.
My Thoughts:
Now I don't watch many musicals to know how common this is. But it at least seemed different to me that they used actual hits from the '70s instead of music made for the show itself. I thought that was a good idea and hope to see more like it through-out the marathon.
My Rating:
Now I don't watch many musicals to know how common this is. But it at least seemed different to me that they used actual hits from the '70s instead of music made for the show itself. I thought that was a good idea and hope to see more like it through-out the marathon.
My Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 03, 2016, 03:14:08 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/032429240972f.jpg) | Grease Live! (2016/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4366830/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grease:_Live) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byfTX0yd5As) |
|
Stars:
Julianne Hough as Sandy
Aaron Tveit as Danny
Vanessa Hudgens as Rizzo
Keke Palmer as Marty
Carly Rae Jepsen as Frenchy
Plot:
Join the rollicking gang of Rydell High for Grease Live!, an electrifying production of the hugely popular musical "Grease" – performed before a studio audience LIVE! Featuring a cast of today's hottest young stars including Julianne Hough, Aaron Tveit, Vanessa Hudgens, Keke Palmer, and Carly Rae Jepsen. With new music by Jessie J, Boys II Men, and DNCE, Grease Live! will reintroduce the unforgettable moments, classic music, and timeless love story to an entirely new generation.
My Thoughts:
I watched this one on Netflix. It took me a while to write this review. Mainly because I want to give it a fair review for the show that it was... without comparing it too much to the movie. I know there has to be some comparison while watching but I wanted to review this on it's own merits. Some of the cast choices seemed odd to me. But others was right on. I felt Vanessa Hudgens did a wonderful job as Rizzo and Julianne Hough was good as Sandy... but that is about the best I can say about the cast. On one hand I thought it was a good homage to the film and I liked the live aspect... but on the other hand they made some choices that left me scratching my head. Even watching this version I couldn't help myself from thinking of Dawn. As much as she loved the original film and as many times as she made me sit through it... because of this the entire Grease franchise has a special place in my heart.
My advice on this one... you are better off watching the original film. But if you must see it... there is worse ways to waste just over 2hrs of your time. Would I add this one to my collection? Maybe if I got it super cheap or free. But I don't feel the need to rush adding it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 03, 2016, 03:47:37 PM
Oh what would the reaction be (both here at home and online) if at the end of the month I end up watching more musicals then Danae Cassandra? :hysterical:
Post by: Achim on July 04, 2016, 06:49:28 AM
Once you start pulling out your hair, it's time to stop!
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 04, 2016, 06:38:48 PM
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 05, 2016, 04:57:15 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012569504127f.jpg) | Yankee Doodle Dandy: Two-Disc Special Edition (1942/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0035575/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yankee_Doodle_Dandy) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTec9v6fjN0) |
|
Stars:
James Cagney as George M. Cohan
Joan Leslie as Mary
Walter Huston as Jerry Cohan
Richard Whorf as Sam Harris
Irene Manning as Fay Templeton
Plot:
A musical portrait of composer/singer/dancer George M. Cohan. From his early days as a child-star in his family's vaudeville show up to the time of his comeback at which he received a medal from the president for his special contributions to the US, this is the life- story of George M. Cohan, who produced, directed, wrote and starred in his own musical shows for which he composed his famous songs.
Yankee Doodle Dandy will include "Warner Bros' Night at the Movies 1942" (Casablanca theatrical trailer, a vintage newsreel, the short "Beyond the Line of Duty," and the Looney Tunes short "Bugs Bunny Gets the Boid"). Other extras include a commentary from Behlmer and trailers for seven Cagney films;"James Cagney: Top of the World" biographical tribute hosted by Michael J. Fox; "Let Freedom Sing!: The Story of Yankee Doodle Dandy" making-of documentary; the Looney Tunes shorts "Yankee Doodle Daffy" and "Yankee Doodle Bugs"; the wartime short "You, John Jones" starring Cagney and Greer Garson; audio-only outtakes and rehearsals; the Oct. 19, 1942, Lady Esther Screen Guild Theater Radio Show with the film's cast members; and other material.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Production Notes
- Closed Captioned
- Looney Tunes
My Thoughts:
This one while entertaining... will not be a favorite. I found it to be a little slow in parts and found myself waiting for the ending to come. I will say this I seen a different side of James Cagney in this one and I must admit I am impressed. Don't get me wrong I would say this one is worth the watch....and while I may add it to my collection at some point... it is not one I will be in a hurry to find.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 05, 2016, 05:11:09 AM
Psych - Season 7 Episode 15-16: Psych the Musical
Shawn and Gus dive into a world that's equal parts mystery and melody to track down an escaped playwright mad man, Z, who six years earlier was deemed criminally insane after locking a critic in a back room of the theater that he burnt to the ground.
My Thoughts:
Pretty much just an average episode here. Not so sure it deserved to be double length. Some of the musical numbers felt forced.
My Rating:
Pretty much just an average episode here. Not so sure it deserved to be double length. Some of the musical numbers felt forced.
My Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 05, 2016, 02:09:13 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936767391f.jpg) | Camp Rock: Extended Rock Star Edition (2008/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1055366/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Rock) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chqevL3FSz8) |
|
Stars:
Demi Lovato as Mitchie Torres
Joe Jonas as Shane Gray
Meaghan Jette Martin as Tess
Maria Canals Barrera as Connie Torres
Alyson Stoner as Caitlyn Geller
Plot:
This summer is gonna Rock! Get read to sing and dance as you experience the Disney Channel Original Movie Camp Rock in an amazing new way on Blu-ray Disc™! Check out awesome bonus features exclusive to Blu-ray, including the Camp Rock Set Tours!
When Mitchie gets a chance to attend Camp Rock, her life takes an unpredictable twist, and she learns just how important it is to be true to yourself. Join the platinum-selling Jonas Brothers and the hottest cast of performers at the coolest summer camp anywhere! Experience Camp Rock at its best on Blu-ray Disc, complete with a pristine picture and theater-quality sound. Packed with hit music, hip dance moves and bonus features, Camp Rock will have you singing, dancing and rocking over and over again.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Karaoke
My Thoughts:
I am a grown man that enjoys the Disney Channel Original Movies.... so sue me! :P I watched this one on Netflix. And I enjoyed it. I liked the concept... the cast did well.... and was enough to keep my attention through-out. I can see myself adding this one to my collection. Also noticed there is a part 2 on netflix as well... guess I will have to watch it also.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 05, 2016, 02:19:31 PM
Pete:
Movies- 5
Episodes - 3
Danea Cassandra:
Movies - 2 (1 reviewed)
Episodes - 0
:tease: :hysterical:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 05, 2016, 04:33:05 PM
Let's see... how's it going?
Pete:
Movies- 5
Episodes - 3
Danea Cassandra:
Movies - 2 (1 reviewed)
Episodes - 0
:tease: :hysterical:
Hey, I have to work! And run errands! And I had half my review written for Yankee Doodle Dandy when the power blipped yesterday.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 05, 2016, 08:38:26 PM
Yankee Doodle Dandy
Year of Release: 1942
Directed By: Michael Curtiz
Starring: James Cagney, Joan Leslie, Walter Huston, Richard Whorf, Irene Manning
Genre: Drama, Biography, Musical
Overview:
A musical portrait of composer/singer/dancer George M. Cohan. From his early days as a child-star in his family's vaudeville show up to the time of his comeback at which he received a medal from the president for his special contributions to the US, this is the life- story of George M. Cohan, who produced, directed, wrote and starred in his own musical shows for which he composed his famous songs.
Yankee Doodle Dandy will include "Warner Bros' Night at the Movies 1942" (Casablanca theatrical trailer, a vintage newsreel, the short "Beyond the Line of Duty," and the Looney Tunes short "Bugs Bunny Gets the Boid"). Other extras include a commentary from Behlmer and trailers for seven Cagney films; "James Cagney: Top of the World" biographical tribute hosted by Michael J. Fox; "Let Freedom Sing!: The Story of Yankee Doodle Dandy" making-of documentary; the Looney Tunes shorts "Yankee Doodle Daffy" and "Yankee Doodle Bugs"; the wartime short "You, John Jones" starring Cagney and Greer Garson; audio-only outtakes and rehearsals; the Oct. 19, 1942, Lady Esther Screen Guild Theater Radio Show with the film's cast members; and other material.
My Thoughts
This is very much a film of its time. The display of patriotism and the classic American dream is absolute vintage WWII; a snapshot of a less cynical era. That's partly why Yankee Doodle Dandy hasn't aged as well as other films of the era. Cohen's songs come off as naive; his faith in his country innocent.
Still, Cagney's performance is dynamite, and the film is worth watching just for him. Douglas Croft, who plays Cohen at a younger age, is also really great in his part. The song and dance numbers are fine, but the pacing could be better. As a biography, it makes Cohen a much more wholesome, clean-cut fella than he really was - reality is always complex, and the Cohen here isn't.
Still, this is an iconic piece of 40's cinema, and worth watching for cinema enthusiasts.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.25/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 05, 2016, 08:39:27 PM
Movies - 3 (2 reviewed)
Episodes - 0
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 05, 2016, 11:12:37 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936805758f.jpg) | Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam: Extended Edition (2010/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1252380/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Rock_2:_The_Final_Jam) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ale5N6ZbBqE) |
|
Stars:
Demi Lovato as Mitchie
Joe Jonas as Shane
Nick Jonas as Nate
Kevin Jonas as Jason
Daniel Fathers as Brown
Plot:
Get ready to ROCK with the biggest musical event of the year—now in an Extended Edition with never-before-seen scenes & songs! Join Mitchie (Demi Lovato), Shane, Nate and Jason (Jonas Brothers), and some brand-new campers across the lake for 2 times the music, 2 times the dance moves and 2 times the fun in Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam! Plus only this Extended Edition Combo Pack includes a behind-the-scenes introduction to the newest stars, music videos by Camp Rockers from around the world, and "Rock-Along," where you take center stage!
Mitchie can't wait to go back to Camp Rock and spend the summer making new music with her friends and superstar Shane Gray. But the slick new camp across the lake, Camp Star, has drummed up some serious competition—featuring newcomers Luke (Matthew "Mdot" Finley) and Dana (Chloe Bridges). In a sensational battle of the bands, with Camp Rock's future at stake, will Camp Star's flashy production and over-the-top antics win out, or will Camp Rockers prove that music, teamwork, and spirit are what truly matter?
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Digital Copy
- Rock-Along
My Thoughts:
This one iis a good follow-up. I liked where they went with the story. I the camp don't just concentrate on the music but also do traditional summer camp type stuff as well. I can see myself watching the Camp Rock films again.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 05, 2016, 11:35:48 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192107948f.jpg) | Mamma Mia!: The Movie (2008/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mamma_Mia!_(film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0795421/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkN-A00WLYE) |
|
Stars:
Amanda Seyfried as Sophie
Stellan Skarsgård as Bill
Pierce Brosnan as Sam
Nancy Baldwin as Sam's PA
Colin Firth as Harry
Plot:
Sophie has just one wish to make her wedding perfect: to have her father walk her down the aisle. Now she just has to find out who he is. Join the music, laughter and fun of the irresistibly charming Mamma Mia! The Movie. Academy Award®-winner Meryl Streep* leads an all-star cast, including Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth – as well as up-and-comers Amanda Seyfried and Dominic Cooper, in this musical celebration of mothers, daughters and fathers, and true loves lost and new ones found. Based on the Broadway smash-hit and filled with the ABBA songs you know and love, it's the feel-good experience that will have you singing and dancing over and over again.
*1979 Best Supporting Actress, Kramer vs. Kramer; 1982 Best Actress, Sophie's Choice.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Interviews
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- Picture-in-picture
- BD-Live
- Digital Copy
- U-Control, Sing-Along
My Thoughts:
After watching this one I found I have mixed feelings. On the one hand it is an entertaining story... and the entire cast did a great job. But on the other hand...I DO NOT LIKE UNANSWERED QUESTIONS! That and a couple other small things that bothered me. One being the loudness of all the songs. It is like they cranked up the volume for the musical numbers. By the time it was over I had a decent head ache. Either way... it is an enjoyable movie... I can see myself watching it again. But not in a real hurry to do so.
Rating:
Post by: Piffi on July 06, 2016, 12:48:55 AM
And do you have a new favorite genre now Pete? ;) hehe
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 06, 2016, 01:29:09 AM
Let's see... how's it going?
Pete:
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danea Cassandra:
Movies - 3 (2 reviewed)
Episodes - 0
:tease: :hysterical:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 06, 2016, 01:31:07 AM
Is it a competion between you two now? ;) hehe.
And do you have a new favorite genre now Pete? ;) hehe
Competition?... I dunno.... maybe a little bit. New favorite genre? definitely not! :laugh:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 06, 2016, 03:02:48 PM
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 5 (2 reviewed)
Episodes - 0
Post by: GSyren on July 06, 2016, 10:55:00 PM
New favorite genre? definitely not! :laugh:Not a new favorite, maybe, but come on, you're warming up to musicals, aren't you? ;)
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 07:25:44 AM
Saludos Amigos
Year of Release: 1942
Directed By: Bill Roberts, Jack Kinney, Ham Luske, Wilfred Jackson
Starring: Fred Shields, Jose Oliveira
Genre: Comedy, Animation, Musical
Overview:
Direct from the vault, Disney's 6th full-length animated film, Saludos Amigos is available for the first time ever! Loosely translated as "Greetings, Friends," it features the Academy Award®-nominated* song of the same title and showcases the brilliance of Disney's legendary animators.
A whimsical blend of live action and animation, Saludos Amigos is a colorful kaleidoscope of art, adventure and music set to a toe-tapping samba beat. Your south-of-the-border traveling companions are none other than famous funny friends, Donald Duck and Goofy. They keep things lively as Donald encounters a stubborn llama and "El Gaucho" Goofy tries on the cowboy way of life...South American-style.
From high Andes peaks to Argentina's pampas to the sights and sounds of Rio de Janeiro, Saludos Amigos is a hilarious visual feast that will entertain and delight the whole family.
My Thoughts:
Saludos Amigos is considered one of Disney's lesser efforts, and its not hard to see why. That's not to say this is a bad film, only that it will never be counted among my favorites. It's also not my least favorite. The framing story dates this film; those psuedo-documentary sections are condescending. The cartoons are fun. My favorites were the beautiful Aquarela do Brasil and the amusing El Gaucho Goofy. The other two are good, but I didn't find them to be quite as good.
I do wish Disney didn't feel the need to censor their earlier films for our "enjoyment." A bit of smoking has been excised from El Gaucho Goofy, and though it's lack doesn't hinder enjoying the short, censorship is a terrible thing. I'd like to see the package films come out on blu-ray - Saludos would make a nice 2-pack with The Three Caballeros.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 07:35:23 AM
Austin City Limits: Merle Haggard, Live from Austin, 1986
I'm not a fan of any shows that had musical episodes, but I do love me some Austin City Limits. Haggard appeared on 9 episodes of the show - I have the DVD from the 86 show, his fourth appearance. This is a great little short concert, with several of his classic songs. Though I do wish he did the original "Okie" instead of the follow-up, and it doesn't include "Are the Good Times Really Over" which I also really like. Highly recommended if you like outlaw/classic country music.
4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 07:36:55 AM
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 6 (3 reviewed)
Episodes - 1
CATCHING UP!!!!
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 02:20:30 PM
Austin City Limits: Waylon Jennings, Live from Austin, 1989
This was Jennings second appearance on Austin City Limits; the first being in 1984 and a third in 1997. Like Haggard's episode, this is great stuff if you love outlaw/classic country. Jennings backing band is also great, especially Ralph Mooney on the pedal steel. Highly recommended if you love this music.
4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 02:32:27 PM
Mamma Mia!
Year of Release: 2008
Directed By: Phyllida Lloyd
Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Stellan Skarsgard, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Meryl Streep
Genre: Comedy, Romance, Musical
Overview:
Sophie has just one wish to make her wedding perfect: to have her father walk her down the aisle. Now she just has to find out who he is. Join the music, laughter and fun of the irresistibly charming Mamma Mia! The Movie. Academy Award®-winner Meryl Streep* leads an all-star cast, including Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth – as well as up-and-comers Amanda Seyfried and Dominic Cooper, in this musical celebration of mothers, daughters and fathers, and true loves lost and new ones found. Based on the Broadway smash-hit and filled with the ABBA songs you know and love, it's the feel-good experience that will have you singing and dancing over and over again.
My Thoughts:
This is sweet, frothy fun. It's a bit campy and goofy, but it makes it work. I'm still not convinced Amanda Seyfried can act, but the ensemble cast masks that. Christine Baranski's character is basically the chick she played in Cybil. Some of the singing is not that great; a number of these actors sound like regular people singing. But it's no worse than some other musicals I can think of. The setting is gorgeous and the film moves quickly from one number to the next quickly. It doesn't seem like a two-hour film to me. Not great cinema by any stretch, but a really enjoyable film.
Unlike some other folks I don't need the resolution to some questions, as I'm happy with the decision that having the answer doesn't matter.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 02:33:55 PM
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 6 (4 reviewed)
Episodes - 2
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 04:08:06 PM
Melody Time
Year of Release: 1948
Directed By: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske, Jack Kinney
Starring: Roy Rogers, Trigger, Dennis Day, The Andrews Sisters
Genre: Comedy, Musical, Animation
Overview:
In the grand tradition of Disney's greatest musical classics such as Fantasia, Melody Time features seven classic stories, each enhanced with high-spirited music and unforgettable characters!
Donald Duck — an all-time Disney favorite — puts on a display of jazzy antics as the star of "Blame It On The Samba." Music becomes a real adventure for a busy bumble bee in "Bumble Boogie." From the mischievous young tugboat in "Little Toot," to the heroes of legend and myth in "Johnny Appleseed" and "Pecos Bill," this feast for the eyes and ears entertains with wit and charm.
A timeless addition to your video collection, Melody Time is a delightful Disney classic with something for everyone in your family!
My Thoughts:
Another of Disney's package films, and like the others I've watched this year sadly sanitized for home video release (excising a smoking bit from Pecos Bill). I enjoyed all of the segments here, though my favorite was Trees (and I'm apparently in the minority with that). Bumble Boogie was also a lot of fun, as is Blame it on the Samba which reunites the Donald, Jose Carioca, and the Aracuan Bird. The more conventional Little Toot, Once Upon a Wintertime, and Pecos Bill are cute cartoons, but I found Johnny Appleseed to be a bit too saccharine. Recommended if you like Disney's short cartoons.
This would make a great 2-pack with Make Mine Music, should Disney decide to release them on blu-ray.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 07, 2016, 07:02:41 PM
Austin City Limits: Johnny Cash, Live from Austin, 1987
More Austin City Limits! Again, great short concert from an absolute legend. This is Cash's only appearance on the long-running show. Highly recommended.
4.5/5 (cause I really love Johnny Cash)
Post by: Piffi on July 07, 2016, 10:52:55 PM
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 12:08:26 AM
Is it a whole concert or? I'm a really big fan of Johnny Cash.. But if it is only a song or two..
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/60/607396801725f.jpg)
It's just about one hour long, 14 songs.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 12:22:05 AM
Under the Roofs of Paris (Sous les toits de Paris)
Year of Release: 1930
Directed By: Rene Clair
Starring: Albert Prejean, Pola Illery, Edmond Greville, Bill Bocket, Gaston Modot
Genre: Drama, Romance, Musical
Overview:
In René Clair's irrepressibly romantic portrait of the crowded tenements of Paris, a street singer and a gangster vie for the love of a beautiful young woman. This witty exploration of love and human foibles, told primarily through song, captures the flamboyant atmosphere of the city with sophisticated visuals and groundbreaking use of the new technology of movie sound. An international sensation upon its release, Under the Roofs of Paris is an exhilarating celebration of filmmaking and one of France's most beloved cinematic exports.
My Thoughts:
This is an early sound film, so it very much comes off in style as a silent film. Clair is sparing with his use of sound, but he uses it in interesting ways so as not to give up the freedoms of camera movement. The filmmaking here is unique and excellent. Clair's camera and vision make Paris the uncredited co-star here.
Sadly, the story isn't quite as good as Clair's filmmaking, as its a fairly conventional one of a beautiful girl and the men who vie for her attention. The actors all do a good job, and don't come off quite as hammy as most silent actors. I enjoyed the film, and it's an important work historically, but I'd only recommend it if you like silent cinema (even though it's a talkie).
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 12:56:18 AM
Austin City Limits: Willie Nelson, Live from Austin, 1990
Again, more Austin City Limits! A great concert from Willie Nelson. He's appeared on the show 16 times, including the first episode in 1974. I'm out of classic outlaw country now, and will have to dip into some of my other episodes of the show next. Highly recommended if you like Willie.
4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 01:47:06 AM
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 6
Episodes - 4
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 06:39:33 AM
El amor brujo
Year of Release: 1986
Directed By: Carlos Saura
Starring: Antonio Gades, Cristina Hoyos, Laura del Sol, Juan Antonio Jimenes
Genre: Romance, Drama, Performing Arts, Musical
Overview:
The most straightforward narrative in the "Flamenco Trilogy" is also its most forthrightly theatrical, a modern take on composer Manuel de Falla's gypsy ballet, dressed up in pink sunsets and hellishly red fires. Set in a dusty Andalusian village, El amor brujo (Love, the Magician) is a seductive melodrama of a man (Antonio Gades) whose beloved is haunted by the ghost of another.
My Thoughts:
Such wonderful, gorgeous dancing! Seriously, these folks are splendid, and if you enjoy classical dancing, especially flamenco, this is worth watching just for that alone. Top that off with de Falla's wondeful music, and a haunting, romantic tale of love and betrayal, this was a great film.
I should probably only recommend it to art film lovers, as it is done in a very minimalist fashion and set much more like it would be on stage than what one thinks of as a traditional movie. I really enjoyed this film, however.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 06:40:03 AM
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 7
Episodes - 4
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 02:14:23 PM
Austin City Limits: R.E.M., Live from Austin, 2008
Yup, more Austin City Limits. R.E.M. was the first rock band I ever liked; they were huge when I was in high school. I've always favored their earlier stuff over their later music, but they sound really great here. I think their modern music might translate even better live then it does album-wise. I watched this on YouTube, but I think I might have to pick up the DVD.
4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 08, 2016, 02:15:24 PM
Movies- 7
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 7
Episodes - 5
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 08, 2016, 05:25:56 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936785708f.jpg) | High School Musical: Remix (2006/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0475293/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_School_Musical) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn075_DMils) |
|
Stars:
Zac Efron as Troy Bolton
Vanessa Anne Hudgens as Gabriella Montez
Ashley Tisdale as Sharpay
Lucas Grabeel as Ryan
Alyson Reed as Ms. Darbus
Plot:
The power of music explodes in this spectacular Blu-ray Disc Remix Edition of the Emmy Award-winning High School Musical! The smash-hit Disney Channel Original Movie now features theater-quality sound, the best picture available, and awesome bonus features that will rock your world. Get a prime spot on the red carpet for the star-studded Hollywood premiere, and join the High School Reunion where the cast reunites in an exclusive interview to share how the movie phenomenon has changed their lives.
Plus, stand up and experience the Dance-Along, in which Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay and Ryan give step-by-step instructions to popular dance sequences "Get'cha Head In The Game" and "We're All In This Together." Watch five hot music videos, including two specially remixed versions of your favorite songs. In pristine picture, sound and quality only Blu-ray can deliver, this High School Musical Remix Edition is bigger, bolder and more rockin' than ever!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
My Thoughts:
I watched this one on Netflix with my daughter after work last night... and was kind of surprised that I actually enjoyed the story. Telling me to give the sequel a chance. I Liked most the characters here. I would say over-all worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 08, 2016, 05:26:35 PM
Pete:
Movies- 9 (8 Reviewed)
Episodes - 3
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 7
Episodes - 5
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 08, 2016, 06:13:22 PM
Futurama - Season 5 Episode 16: The Devil's Hands are Idle Playthings
Fry makes a deal with the Robot Devil so he can become a skillful musician and win Leela's heart.
My Thoughts:
Much like "The Simpsons" when it originally aired I enjoyed this show... but not long after it I kinda gave up on it. While I still like the characters enough... not much here with this episode. It is no more then ok.
My Rating:
Much like "The Simpsons" when it originally aired I enjoyed this show... but not long after it I kinda gave up on it. While I still like the characters enough... not much here with this episode. It is no more then ok.
My Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 09, 2016, 05:18:52 AM
Yellow Submarine
Year of Release: 1968
Directed By: George Dunning
Starring: Paul Angelis, John Clive, Dick Emery, Geoff Hughes, Lance Percival
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Musical, Animation
Overview:
Join the greatest band of all time for a mind-blowing voyage you won't soon forget. Heralded as "a cartoon landmark" (San Francisco Examiner), this visually stunning odyssey turned animation upside-down with its irreverent style and innovative techniques.
Once upon a time...or maybe twice, the unearthly paradise of Pepperland was taken over by the evil Blue Meanies. All looked hopeless...until the Fab Four sailed in to save the day with humor, music and, of course, their yellow submarine.
Now restored with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound and featuring classic Beatles tunes including the never-before-seen animated sequence "Hey Bulldog," this visionary masterpiece is "a funny, fascinating, whiz-bang tour de force" (Los Angeles Times)!
My Thoughts:
This is ridiculously fun, despite (or is it because..) being one of the trippiest movies ever made. Vibrant colors, surreal beasts, and a complete disregard for the laws of physics make this an exploration into psychedelia. Certainly one of the most unique animated films ever made. I didn't remember The Beatles being quite as catty as they get at some points (calling the monster that gets in the sub 'ugly,' making fun of Ringo, and the "Nowhere Man" sequence come to mind here). Still highly recommended if you like The Beatles, the 60's, or surrealism/psychedelia.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 09, 2016, 05:25:47 AM
Austin City Limits: Reba McEntire, Live from Austin, 1988
Time for more Austin City Limits. Like the R.E.M. episode, I watched this one on YouTube. Video quality was not near as good; I expect this was ported over from someone's VHS recording. The music is still good, though. One almost forgets how big hair was in the 80's.
3.5/5 (I like Reba, but not as much as any of the previous artists)
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kxV2KqEu7Qs/hqdefault.jpg)
Austin City Limits: The Oak Ridge Boys, Live from Austin, 1985
Again, I watched this one on YouTube as well, and like the Reba episode, I believe it was ported over from someone's VHS recording. Not near as good as Reba's episode, and there was a really unnecessary light/smoke show going on behind them. Also the show dropped off abruptly, leading me to believe that this wasn't the entire episode. Really missed my favorite song of theirs as well ("I'll Be True to You").
2.75/5
(http://www.brooklynvegan.com/files/img/tg/austin/music/nine-inch-nails/moody-theater/acltv-taping/austin-city-limits/20131104-tsg/nine-inch-nails-19.jpg)
Austin City Limits: Nine Inch Nails, Live from Austin, 2015
Thought I'd give something different a try, and I remembered these guys not being terrible. I'd still agree to that sentiment, and the sounded like something a couple of my more modern-music-loving co-workers would like, so I might play these guys at the shop at some point. Also a YouTube watch, but this one has great video and sound quality. Recommended if you like this band; but I probably won't ever watch it again.
3.5/5 (I'd rate it higher if I liked the music more)
(http://images.realclear.com/296974_5_.jpg)
Austin City Limits: Willie Nelson, Live from Austin, 1974
This is more to my taste. Like you didn't know that already! Great set from Willie for the inaugural episode of Austin City Limits. This is also on YouTube, but with really good picture and sound quality for its age (much better than The Oak Ridge Boys, not as good as NIN). Willie is so young!
4/5
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/L9-ZgeeA0z0/hqdefault.jpg)
Austin City Limits: George Strait, Live from Austin, 1989
George looks really young too. Beautiful little set from a guy with a great voice and nothing to distract from the music. This was ported over to YouTube from a CMT syndicated broadcast, but the sound and video are of pretty good quality (not as good as the NIN or the R.E.M. though). Recommended.
4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 09, 2016, 06:09:15 AM
Movies- 9 (8 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 8
Episodes - 10
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 10, 2016, 02:27:24 PM
Xanadu
Year of Release: 1980
Directed By: Robert Greenwald
Starring: Olivia Newton-John, Gene Kelly, Michael Beck
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Musical
Overview:
Step into a magical world with superstars Olivia Newton-John (Grease) and Gene Kelly (Singin' in the Rain) as they take you through one of the most extraordinary musicals in the beloved film, Xanadu! A beautiful muse is sent from up above to inspire a struggling artist and help motivate him to open a roller-disco. The dazzling soundtrack includes the hit songs "Magic," "I'm Alive," "All Over the World," "Suddenly" and the title song "Xanadu." Throw on your roller-skates, turn up the volume and enjoy this sparkling out-of-this-world fantasy!
My Thoughts:
This isn't as bad as lot of reviews give it, and certainly isn't one of the worst films of all time (despite being the inspiration for the Razzies). There's quite a bit to like here - the dance numbers are lots of fun, though the camera doesn't capture them as well it could. The soundtrack is great. Gene Kelly is wonderful as usual - he has the best dancing, the best lines, and the best character here. Actually, all round he is the best thing in the film. I could probably watch Gene Kelly in anything.
On the other hand, while Olivia Newton-John is pretty, she's not a particularly great actress. She's leaps and bounds over Michael Beck, however. His performance reminds me of the lead in a high school play. He has zero charisma and zero acting ability. Which is a problem for the plot, as it's hard to believe that a Greek muse would fall in love with this boring-ass chump. Actually, the plot could use a lot more development - the romance seems forced and we don't learn nearly enough about the mythology.
Still, I enjoyed it more of it than I didn't. Or maybe I like Gene Kelly rollerskating that much.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.75/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 10, 2016, 02:27:55 PM
Movies- 9 (8 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 9
Episodes - 10
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 10, 2016, 02:28:23 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936745856f.jpg) | High School Musical 2: Extended Edition (2007/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0810900/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_School_Musical_2) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UiHFHF-Nqk) |
|
Stars:
Zac Efron as Troy Bolton
Vanessa Hudgens as Gabriella Montez
Ashley Tisdale as Sharpay Evans
Lucas Grabeel as Ryan Evans
Corbin Bleu as Chad Danforth
Plot:
It's time to sing and dance, because High School Musical 2: Extended Edition is a new experience on Blu-ray Disc®, with a never-before-seen musical scene and a high definition picture and theater-quality sound.
The East High Wildcats are gearing up for big fun as they land the coolest summer jobs imaginable. Troy (Zac Efron), Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens), Chad (Corbin Bleu) and Taylor (Monique Coleman) have scored sweet gigs at the Lava Springs Country Club owned by Sharpay and Ryan's family. Sharpay's first rule of business: Get Troy. As Troy experiences a life of privilege he's never known, will he give up the Wildcats and Gabriella to rise to the top?
The fun heats up like never before as you catch every dance number in astonishing 1080p, and hear every song in mind-blowing 5.1 48 kHz, 24-bit uncompressed audio. High School Musical 2: Extended Edition on Blu-ray Disc is way 2 good 2 miss!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- Karaoke
My Thoughts:
After enjoying the first one more then I thought I would I had to give this one a chance. While still an entertaining film... it is a rather large step down in quality of the story.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 10, 2016, 02:41:29 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192337314f.jpg) | Xanadu (1980/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081777/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xanadu_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNcUv1q2JAs) |
|
Stars:
Olivia Newton-John as Kira
Gene Kelly as Danny McGuire
Michael Beck as Sonny Malone
James Sloyan as Simpson
Dimitra Arliss as Helen
Plot:
Step into a magical world with superstars Olivia Newton-John (Grease) and Gene Kelly (Singin' in the Rain) as they take you through one of the most extraordinary musicals in the beloved film, Xanadu! A beautiful muse is sent from up above to inspire a struggling artist and help motivate him to open a roller-disco. The dazzling soundtrack includes the hit songs "Magic," "I'm Alive," "All Over the World," "Suddenly" and the title song "Xanadu." Throw on your roller-skates, turn up the volume and enjoy this sparkling out-of-this-world fantasy!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
My Thoughts:
OK... this one is a little hard for me to review. First of all it is one of the handful of films Dawn liked me to watch with her. Though not to the extent of some others. And this one has some good and some baf elements... pretty much equally.I think the storyline could have used some more development... maybe replace Michael Beck... because he just didn't impress any of us with his acting ability. And gotten rid of the cartoon segment all together. But the storyline is enjoyable... Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly were both great and it was able to easily keep my attention through-out the film. So I would say yes... this one is far from award winning material but I think it is worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 10, 2016, 03:04:36 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396392724f.jpg) | Annie: 30th Anniversary: Sing-Along Edition (1982/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083564/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annie_(1982_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tg7JWB2SR7E) |
|
Stars:
Albert Finney as Daddy Warbucks
Carol Burnett as Miss Hannigan
Ann Reinking as Grace Farrell
Tim Curry as Rooster
Bernadette Peters as Lily
Plot:
ANNIE, the story of everyone's favorite plucky, red-haired orphan, finally makes the leap from DVD to Blu-ray™! One day Annie (Aileen Quinn) is chosen to stay for a week with the famous billionaire "Daddy" Warbucks (Albert Finney). One week turns into many, and the only person standing in the way of Annie's fun is Miss Hannigan, the tyrannical ruler of the orphanage (played to hilarious perfection by Carol Burnett). Will Miss Hannigan's zany attempts to kidnap the irrepressible Annie succeed? Sing along to the unforgettable songs and experience the beloved musical like never before!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Bonus Trailers
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Digital Copy
My Thoughts:
This is one I thought I seen years ago... but after watching it through out I am not sure. Maybe I only seen clips of it. But this is one I enjoyed quite a bit. I liked the storyline and the setting. Cast did a great job... all except one. I just did not care for Carol Burnett in this film. Which is weird since I used to enjoy her years ago. But something bugged me about her in this one. Not the character mind you... but Carol Burnett herself. This one definitely worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 10, 2016, 03:17:54 PM
Movies- 11
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 9
Episodes - 10
Since this whole thing got turned into a competition (with a prize and all) the whole thing has gotten a little complicated. How to count what we watch and everything. So we have now decided at least for the competition... only the movie total counts... as she owns strictly musical TV series she can easily beat me with those by watching twice as many in half the time.
So we decided for the competition only the movie totals will count.
Wow! What did this whole thing turn into!?! :stars: :slaphead: :stars:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 10, 2016, 03:22:09 PM
Wow! What did this whole thing turn into!?! :stars: :slaphead: :stars:
Hey, you have only yourself to blame, what with those taunting and laughing emojis! :tease:
Post by: Piffi on July 10, 2016, 04:32:56 PM
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 10, 2016, 05:12:18 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192128172f.jpg) | Buck Privates: Collector's Series (1941/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0033436/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buck_Privates) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jAcTJMPcKE) |
|
Stars:
Lee Bowman (1914) as Randolph Parker, III
Alan Curtis (1909) as Bob Martin
Bud Abbott as Slicker Smith
Lou Costello as Herbie Brown
The Andrews Sisters
Plot:
Comedy legends Bud Abbott and Lou Costello cemented their place in film history with the hilarious comedy classic Buck Privates. After spending years on stage in burlesque and on radio perfecting classic routines such as "Who's on First?", the duo transitioned to motion pictures at Universal in 1940. In their first leading roles, Bud and Lou play con artists who accidently enlist in the U.S. Army to avoid going to jail. Making matters worse, their no–nonsense drill sergeant turns out to be the cop who tried to arrest them! Featuring classic routines such as "Drill", "Dice Game" and "You're Forty, She's Ten", the film also starred the popular singing group The Andrews Sisters performing the Academy Award®–nominated° song "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy". Following the success of Buck Privates, Bud and Lou made an astounding 26 more movies at Universal leaving a legacy of laughter that will be treasured forever.
°1941 Best Music-Original Song
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
My Thoughts:
This is a fun Abbott and Costello flick. Seeing the misfits in the armed forces is always fun. While this one is definitely worth the time put in to watch it... if there is anything for me to complain about... it would have to be a little too much Andrew Sisters. I think I would have liked to have seen a non-musical version of this film. But to be honest... even that didn't really take away from my enjoyment.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 10, 2016, 05:13:02 PM
Movies- 12
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 9
Episodes - 10
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 11, 2016, 07:26:47 AM
The Phantom of the Opera
Year of Release: 2004
Directed By: Joel Schumacher
Starring: Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, Patrick Wilson, Miranda Richardson
Genre: Drama, Suspense/Thriller, Musical
Overview:
The stage musical sensation magically and hauntingly comes to the screen in director Joel Schumacher's lavish production, sweeping audiences aloft to new cinematic heights of sight-and-sound grandeur. Gerard Butler (the Phantom), Emmy Rossum (winner of the National Board of Review Breakthrough Performance and Critics Choice Best Young Actress Awards as Christine) and Patrick Wilson (as Raoul) play the fateful love triangle that unfurls in splendor, suspense – and in the music of the night.
My Thoughts:
I love Phantom. I'm not sure that this is my favorite version of the story - I think that's still the 1990 TV movie - I still think this is an excellent version. I love Lloyd Webber's music. I listened to the Broadway soundtrack for years before this came out. This is a beautiful, lush, romantic film, with gorgeous costuming and sets. I enjoy all of the cast, even if Gerard Butler's voice isn't quite as good as it probably should be for his role. The Phantom here is manipulative and cruel, and it's creepy when you think about him knowing Christine since she was a child. He's also still quite a sympathetic character, and you feel quite bad for him in the life he has led. I don't find Christine or Raoul to be as well-developed, but the Phantom is the central character of the story no matter how you look at it.
Recommended with the caveat that this is almost entirely music, so if you don't like Lloyd Webber's sound this is not a film for you. I thought the story would be enough to carry Pete through, but we lost him an hour into the film.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 11, 2016, 07:27:43 AM
Movies- 12
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 10
Episodes - 11 (10 reviewed)
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 11, 2016, 03:03:45 PM
Austin City Limits: Doc Watson, Live from Austin, 1978
For those of you unfamiliar, Doc Watson was a folk, roots, and bluegrass musician who played a fabulous guitar and banjo. This is a great little set, but it drops off abruptly (like the Oak Ridge Boys one) leading me again to believe it isn't the complete show. I really wish more of this show was available on DVD.
3.5/5 (would rate higher if it didn't drop off)
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_oeK-dM6aCQ/hqdefault.jpg)
Austin City Limits: Chet Atkins & Friends, Live from Austin, 1987
What a great set! Chet's backing band is Dire Straits, and his friends are the Everly Brothers, Emmylou Harris, Michael McDonald, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and David Pack. Chet Atkins knew so many great musicians and had such an influence on popular music.
4.25/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 11, 2016, 03:04:16 PM
Movies- 12
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 10
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 11, 2016, 06:56:27 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097361386140f.jpg) | Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0408236/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweeney_Todd:_The_Demon_Barber_of_Fleet_Street_(2007_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_hgrfZVlJA) |
|
Stars:
Johnny Depp as Sweeney Todd
Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs. Lovett
Alan Rickman as Judge Turpin
Timothy Spall as Beadle
Sacha Baron Cohen as Pirelli
Plot:
Johnny Depp and Tim Burton join forces again in a big-screen adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's award-winning musical thriller.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Interviews
My Thoughts:
This is one that my daughter Brittany picked out to watch with me. I enjoyed it quite a bit... but then how can you go wrong with a cast such as this? I really liked both the story and the settings. This is a film that easily kept my attention through-out. I would definitely recommend this one.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 11, 2016, 08:13:22 PM
Movies- 13
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 10
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 12, 2016, 05:26:50 PM
The Aristocats
Year of Release: 1970
Directed By: Wolfgang Reitherman
Starring: Phil Harris, Eva Gabor, Sterling Holloway, Scatman Crothers
Genre: Adventure, Romance, Musical
Overview:
Everybody wants to be a cat! Disney's unforgettable classic The Aristocats swings like never before in high definition. Share all the heart, humor and irresistible music with your family in this jazzy Special Edition 2-Disc Combo Pack!
In the heart of Paris, a kind and eccentric millionairess wills her entire estate to Duchess, her high-society cat, and her three kittens. When her greedy, bumbling butler attempts the ultimate catnap caper, the rough-and-tumble alley cat Thomas O'Malley and his band of swingin' jazz cats must save the day. It's the purr-fect blend of comedy and adventure.
This timeless treasure boasts remarkable picture and sound quality, fun-filled bonus features and memorable songs the whole family will enjoy. It's the cat's pajamas in Disney High Definition!
My Thoughts:
I was in the mood for something short, light and fun, and this always fits that bill. This is one of my personal favorite Disney films, even though I'm well aware that it's considered a 'lesser' film in their catalog. Yet, I'm never sure why. I like all the characters, even spoiled little Marie who is always the one in danger. The villain is truly bumbling but has believable motivation. The two dogs are hilarious. Sure, the tale is a pretty simple one, but the romance is genuine, the voice acting is good, and I come to appreciate the art style and animation more each time I watch it.
Also, the blu-ray release is beautiful and this film has never looked better. If you like the movie, it's definitely worth the upgrade.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 12, 2016, 06:30:03 PM
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (Les parapluies de Cherbourg)
Year of Release: 1964
Directed By: Jacques Demy
Starring: Catherine Deneuve, Nino Castelnuovo, Anne Vernon, Marc Michel, Ellen Farner
Genre: Romance, Drama, Musical
Overview:
An angelically beautiful Catherine Deneuve was launched to stardom by this dazzling musical heart-tugger from Jacques Demy. She plays an umbrella-shop owner's delicate daughter, glowing with first love for a handsome garage mechanic, played by Nino Castelnuovo. When the boy is shipped off to fight in Algeria, the two lovers must grow up quickly. Exquisitely designed in a kaleidoscope of colors, and told entirely through the lilting songs of the great composer Michel Legrand, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is one of the most revered and unorthodox movie musicals of all time.
My Thoughts:
What is love? Is it the first blush of romance, the passion of youth and energy of youth, when life is ahead of you and everything is enormous? I'm sure you remember those days, when everything that went wrong was the end of the world, and your life was over.
Or is love something you build with people who stand by you? Is it something you have to work for, something that only comes when the flush of youth has passed and one becomes an adult?
My vote is for the latter, but you can work it out for yourself.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 12, 2016, 06:30:36 PM
Movies- 13
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 12
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 13, 2016, 02:42:53 AM
The Carson City Kid
Year of Release: 1940
Directed By: Joseph Kane
Starring: Roy Rogers, George "Gabby" Hayes, Bob Steele, Noah Beery Jr., Pauline Moore
Genre: Western, Musical
Overview:
Roy Rogers, posing as The Carson City Kid, is determined to exact vengeance on his brother's killer.
My Thoughts:
This isn't a bad little B-western. The story's just about right for the length of the picture, and the cast does a credible (if not spectacular) job. I also like Joby's character quite a lot. There's only a couple of songs, but for an hour-long program that might be about right. Would have liked Roy to sing a bit more though.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 13, 2016, 02:43:53 AM
Movies- 14 (13 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 13
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 13, 2016, 05:12:18 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396440005f.jpg) | Annie (2014/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annie_(2014_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1823664/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nasLuiP-1E0) |
|
Stars:
Jamie Foxx as Will Stacks
Quvenzhané Wallis as Annie
Rose Byrne as Grace
Bobby Cannavale as Guy
Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as Ash
Plot:
Academy Award® nominee Quvenzhané Wallis (Best Actress, Beasts of the Southern Wild, 2012) stars as Annie, a young, happy foster kid who’s also tough enough to make her way on the streets of New York. But everything’s about to change when the hard-nosed tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks (Jamie Foxx) makes a thinly-veiled campaign move and takes her in. Stacks believes he’s her guardian angel, but Annie’s self-assured nature and bright, sun-will-come-out-tomorrow outlook on life just might mean it’s the other way around. ...
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Music Videos
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- Digital Copy
- Trivia Track
My Thoughts:
I didn't know what to expect going into this one... but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. They made this remake right,,, changing it enough to be viewed as a different film, but yet making enough of it the same to pay a good homage to the original. I really liked the entire cast in this one. The story line was well done and kept my attention through-out with ease. I would definitely recommend this one to anyone that is a fan of the original.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 13, 2016, 06:37:45 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936814743f.jpg) | Lemonade Mouth: Extended Edition (2011/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemonade_Mouth_(film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1648204/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyV3bgE77hQ) |
|
Stars:
Bridgit Mendler as Olivia
Adam Hicks as Wen
Hayley Kiyoko as Stella
Naomi Scott as Mohini
Blake Michael as Charlie
Plot:
Be heard. Be strong. Be proud. It's time to turn up the music and have some fun with an all-new Disney Channel Movie, starring Bridgit Mendler and Adam Hicks and introducing ten awesome new songs!
When five ragtag freshmen first meet in detention, it seems they have nothing in common. But, through music, they form an unbreakable bond and discover they have the makings of the greatest high school garage band in history! In the face of incredible odds, Olivia, Stella, Wen, Mohini and Charlie find they can make a real difference when they learn to lean on each other and let go of everything holding back their dreams.
Turn the world into your own stage with Lemonade Mouth: Extended Edition, complete with an exclusive music scene.
Life is just a roller coaster - take the ride!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Digital Copy
- Rock-Along
My Thoughts:
This is another one that surprised me that I enjoyed it as much as I did. A film I found on Netflix and do plan on adding to my collection at some point in the near future. I liked how they did the story line... it easily kept my attention from beginning to end. And I enjoyed all the characters. Another film I feel comfortable recommending.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 13, 2016, 06:42:57 AM
Movies- 15
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 13
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 13, 2016, 06:27:02 PM
Pete:
Movies- 16 (15 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 13
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 14, 2016, 06:12:35 AM
Sleeping Beauty
Year of Release: 1959
Directed By: Clyde Geronimi
Starring: Mary Costa, Eleanor Audley, Barbara Luddy, Taylor Holmes, Bill Shirley, Verna Felton
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Musical
Overview:
For the first time ever, the magic of Blu-ray™ high definition technology reveals the full scope of the glorious artistry and attention to detail in Walt Disney's groundbreaking Original Classic Sleeping Beauty. This spectacular 50th Anniversary Blu-ray edition is a sensory celebration—with more of the film than you've ever seen before! From the grand celebration of Princess Aurora's birth, to the fateful day when she falls under Maleficent's evil curse, to Prince Phillip's courageous battle against a fire-breathing dragon, the new digital restoration and Disney Enhanced High Definition Sound will awaken your senses and envelop you in this fantastic world.
My Thoughts:
When you're a kid, you don't realize how absolutely, thoroughly inept those three faeries are. I mean, not only do they botch their whole plan with stupid infighting over the color of a dress, but Merryweather's insulting Maleficent could honestly be argued to start the whole thing. It's no wonder Maleficent is the breakout character - she's the only intelligent, interesting one.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 14, 2016, 06:13:14 AM
Movies- 16 (15 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 15 (14 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 14, 2016, 05:17:07 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929239559f.jpg) | Joyful Noise (2012/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1710396/) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlR_vDzDNyE) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joyful_Noise_(film)) |
|
Stars:
Queen Latifah as Vi Rose Hill
Dolly Parton as G.G. Sparrow
Keke Palmer as Olivia Hill
Jeremy Jordan as Randy Garrity
Dexter Darden as Walter Hill
Plot:
Oscar® nominees Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton star in this funny and inspirational story of music, hope an love. Their small Georgia town has fallen on hard times and is counting on the church choir to lift everyone's spirits by winning the national Joyful Noise Competition. But discord between the two leading ladies threatens to tear everything apart when Vi Rose (Latifah) plans to stick with a traditional style, while fiery G.G. (Parton) wants to shake things up in a big way!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- DVD-ROM Content
- Digital Copy
- extended Songs
My Thoughts:
While this is a fun and entertaining film... I have definitely have seen better. I felt the acting could be better... which always dampens the entertainment value. But it is a good story. Over all I would say it is worth the time put in to watch it...but there are definitely better choices out there.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 14, 2016, 05:39:16 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/887090026208f.jpg) | On the Double (1961/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/On_the_Double_(film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0055253/) |
|
Stars:
Danny Kaye
Dana Wynter
Margaret Rutherford
Diana Dors
Plot:
American GI Ernie Williams, admittedly weak-kneed, has an uncanny resemblance to British Colonel MacKenzie. Williams, also a master of imitation and disguise, is asked to impersonate the Colonel, ostensibly to allow the Colonel to make a secret trip East. What Williams is not told is that the Colonel has recently been a target of assassins. After the Colonel's plane goes down, the plan changes and Williams maintains the disguise to confuse the Nazis about D-Day.
Extras:
- Scene Access
My Thoughts:
I watched this one last night on Amazon Prime. Watching it I don't know that I personally would consider this one a musical but both Amazon Prime and IMDB has it listed as a Musical Comedy. I must say I just wasn't that impressed with this film. I am actually surprised how high the rating for it is on IMDB. I personally didn't find it very funny or very musical. But there is a fair share of music in it so I am including it in the marathon. Though this is not one I see the need to ever watch again. See no sense in adding this one to my collection.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 14, 2016, 05:53:56 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097361449142f.jpg) | Footloose (2011/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footloose_(2011_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1068242/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU6xHjVSMwk) |
|
Stars:
Kenny Wormald as Ren
Julianne Hough as Ariel
Dennis Quaid as Rev. Shaw Moore
Andie MacDowell as Vi Moore
Miles Teller as Willard
Plot:
The 1984 classic is now the modern hit that will make you stand up and cheer! Big city teen Ren MacCormack (Kenny Wormald) moves to a quiet town and discovers that the hard-line minister has outlawed loud music and dancing. But everything changes when Ren challenges the ban, revitalizing the town and falling in loe with the minister's daughter Ariel (Julianne Hough). Critics and audiences agree "Footloose has an infectious spirit"* so get ready to cut loose.
*Alynda Wheat, PEOPLE
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Digital Copy
My Thoughts:
This one I really liked the story line and I felt the cast all did a fine job. I find it well worth the time put in to watch it. Compared to the original? While that is something I don't normally like to do I will say this one seems to over explain the plot...more in your face. Has the viewers in general really lost that much of an attention span that everything must be explained step by step? Over-all I feel comfortable recommending this one.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 14, 2016, 06:02:14 PM
Pete:
Movies- 19 (18 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 15 (14 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: Piffi on July 14, 2016, 08:08:31 PM
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 02:25:04 AM
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 15, 2016, 03:00:49 PM
Since there is a prize for the winner and stuff, is ok to ask what the prize is? ;) Or is that a secret? =)
It is a wrapped package containing shiny silver discs. If Pete wins he gets to open it on August 1st. If I win he has to wait for Christmas. :clapcheer:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 15, 2016, 03:03:33 PM
Movies- 19 (18 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 17 (14 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: Piffi on July 15, 2016, 03:21:34 PM
And it looks like Pete found a new genre he really likes :D hehe
Let us know when you can, what it was you guys won ;)
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 04:37:39 PM
Since there is a prize for the winner and stuff, is ok to ask what the prize is? ;) Or is that a secret? =)
It is a wrapped package containing shiny silver discs. If Pete wins he gets to open it on August 1st. If I win he has to wait for Christmas. :clapcheer:
Still seems a little weird to me. Don't see what you get out of it...except to be able to torture me. Is torturing me really that much fun? LOL
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 04:39:16 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360534146f.jpg) | Footloose: Special Collector's Edition (1984/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087277/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Footloose_(1984_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nSXtZPKms4) |
|
Stars:
Kevin Bacon as Ren
Lori Singer as Ariel
John Lithgow as Rev. Shaw Moore
Dianne Wiest as Vi Moore
Christopher Penn as Willard
Plot:
Footloose jumps with spirit, dazzling dance numbers and an electrifying musical score. It portrays the timeless struggle between innocent pleasure and rigid morality, when city-boy Ren McCormick (Kevin Bacon) finds himself in an uptight Midwestern town where dancing has been banned. Ren revolts with best friend Willard (Chris Penn) and the minister's daughter (Lori Singer). Features a treasury of Top 10 songs - Kenny Loggins' "Footloose," Shalamar's "Dancing In The Sheets," Deniece Williams' "Let's Hear It For The Boy," Bonnie Tyler's "Holding Out For A Hero," and the Footloose love theme, "Almost Paradise."
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This is one I have watched on several occasions with Dawn. It is a fun movie. I enjoyed every minute of it. The entire cast did a great job. I even liked John Lithgow as the reverend....and I normally don't care for him at all. This is one I feel comfortable recommending to everyone. Well worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 05:01:06 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616901255f.jpg) | Camp (2003/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_(2003_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0342167/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAvAlsX57sg) |
|
Stars:
Daniel Letterle as Vladimir 'Vlad' Baumann
Joanna Chilcoat as Ellen Lucas
Robin de Jesus as Michael Flores
Steven Cutts as Shaun
Vince Rimoldi as Spitzer
Plot:
An extremely talented young cast shine in this “energetic musical romp” (Los Angeles Times) about a drama camp where the outcasts of today home their skills to become the stars of tomorrow! Packed with romance, laughs and “genuine show stopping musical numbers” (The Washington Post), Camp is “a blast of exuberant fun” (Rolling Stone)
Every summer, talented kids with big voices and even bigger dreams flock to Camp Ovation. But this year, a sexy new guy, Vlad, is not only stealing the show…he’s stealing the heart of every girl he encounters. And as the biggest day of camp approaches, the young performers must overcome backstabbing, unrequited love and Vlad’s unpredictable libido to pull off the greatest show of their lives!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Production Notes
- Music Videos
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I watched this one on Netflix. It is not one that impressed me. I found my mind wandering through-out the entire film. For the most part I was just bored watching it. Not one I will be adding to my collection... not one I can recommend.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 05:17:17 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398224778f.jpg) | Love & Mercy (2015/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903657/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Love_%26_Mercy_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WaEV0UPQCE) |
|
Stars:
Elizabeth Banks (1974) as Melinda Ledbetter
John Cusack as Brian Wilson - Future
Paul Dano as Brian Wilson - Past
Paul Giamatti (1967) as Dr. Eugene Landy
Jake Abel as Mike Love
Plot:
This remarkable story of The Beach Boys' genius singer-songwriter Brian Wilson is filled with the best of his muscial masterpieces. Until now, few have known the truth behind his mysterious disappearance from the world's stage. Follow the unforgettable story of the pop icon who fell under the complete control of his controversial therapist, made an acclaimed return to music, and, ultimately, found salvation through a chance meeting with the woman who became his wife.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Digital Copy
My Thoughts:
While entertaining and interesting enough to get all the way through... for the most part I found this one fairly average. And I normally enjoy biopics and such. I don't know what...if anything I would change in this film...it just wasn't keeping my attention as much as it should have. I watched this one on Amazon Prime...don't think I will be adding it to my collection.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 08:44:30 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012233251524f.jpg) | I Kissed a Vampire (2012/) Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LF7uMlxSIo) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1656179/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Kissed_a_Vampire) |
|
Stars:
Lucas Grabeel as Dylan Knight
Drew Seeley as Trey Sylvania
Adrian Slade as Sara Lane
Chris Coppola as Dr. Dan Helsing
Amy Paffrath as Luna Dark
Plot:
Haunted by bizarre dreams about Goth rocker Trey Sylvania (DREW SEELEY), and experiencing a growing lust for blood, Dylan (LUCAS GRABEEL), a not-so-average teenager finds himself transforming into a vampire! It all started when he was bitten by a voracious fanged exchange student, and it's a process he is desperate to stop - but how? His demented dentist can't do anything about Dylan's aching teeth and emerging fangs, and the anti-bloodsucking pills he gets from his para-psychologist just give him a rash. Dylan is terrified and he doesn't know what to do - especially about his beautiful girlfriend Sara (ADRIAN SLADE).
Extras:
My Thoughts:
This is another one I watched on Amazon Prime. It was entertaining enough to keep my attention through-out the film. But I would say really not much more then average. Some characters I liked... but others was just plain annoying. I may add it to my collection at some point if I find it very cheap or for free. But it really isn't something I would go searching for.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 15, 2016, 08:51:58 PM
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 17 (14 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
;D :tease: :hysterical:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 16, 2016, 12:42:32 AM
Oliver & Company
Year of Release: 1988
Directed By: George Scribner
Starring: Joey Lawrence, Billy Joel, Cheech Marin, Richard Mulligan, Roscoe Lee Browne, Sheryl Lee Ralph
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Musical
Overview:
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of a Disney classic with the stunning Blu-ray debut of Oliver And Company, featuring perfect picture and sound.
Relive this charming animated adventure, packed with excitement, fun and unforgettable songs by Billy Joel, Bette Midler and Huey Lewis. In the heart of New York City, Oliver, a mischievous orphaned kitten, is befriended by Dodger, a carefree pooch, and his ragtag family of misfit mutts. Life gets even better for Oliver when he is adopted by a lonely little girl named Jenny. But when tough guy Sykes and his Doberman sidekicks try to keep Jenny and Oliver apart, the spirited kitten and his newfound friends discover the meaning of courage and find a home where they truly belong.
My Thoughts:
This is an average Disney animated musical, which does mean it's better than a lot of kids movies from the same era. Characters range in their quality - Oliver, Dodger and their pals are all cute and quirky, Georgette is posh, prissy and over-the-top, Jenny is super-sweet almost to the point of unbelievably, and Fagan is quite the stereotype of a homeless man (and why would a guy like Sykes loan him money anyway?). The songs are really fun to listen to, especially "Why Should I Worry?" I could recommend this to anyone with kids, or who likes Disney.
The blu-ray looks really good, so if you like this film, it's worth the pickup.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 16, 2016, 01:39:52 AM
Swing Time
Year of Release: 1936
Directed By: George Stevens
Starring: Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Victor Moore, Helen Broderick, Georges Metaxa
Genre: Romance, Musical
Overview:
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers headline Swing Time, the romantic spirit-lifter buoyed by a sublime Jerome Kern/Dorothy Fields score, nimble direction by Academy Award® winner* George Stevens and the leads' effortless (after 350 hours of rehearsing!) dancing. The blithe Pick Yourself Up, the Oscar® winning** The Way You Look Tonight, the undeniably moving Never Gonna Dance ode to love and loss, Fred's Bojangles of Harlem tap tribute – they stand out among the standouts in a film widely acknowledged as one of the team's very best.
My Thoughts:
This is a fine Astaire-Rogers film. The dancing is splendid, especially "Never Gonna Dance." Ginger is swell, Fred is charming, and their supporting cast lends some funny moments. Some of the songs have since become standards - "Pick Yourself Up" and "The Way You Look Tonight" especially. This is a fun film, and I would easily recommend it for any lover of musicals, but...
"Bojangles of Harlem" is a bit of a problematic number. Fred's solo dancing is at the top of its game here, and the effect of dancing with the silhouettes is really creative. It's also intended as a tribute to Bill Robinson, who was both a groundbreaking African-American entertainer and friend of Astaire's. In the context of it's time, blackface was common - but as a modern viewer it's hard to watch. Still, after the editing of later films (Melody Time, Make Mine Music, Saludos Amigos, numerous Looney Toons shorts..) I'm glad to see the number hasn't been cut.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.75/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 16, 2016, 05:44:11 AM
That's Entertainment
Year of Release: 1974
Directed By: Jack Haley, Jr.
Starring: Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Gene Kelly, Peter Lawford
Genre: Documentary, Musical
Overview:
The incomparable Golden Era of MGM Musicals shines forever in this timeless production that wowed critics and public alike, became a surprise box-office smash and remains today the best compilation movie ever made. The studio was home to "more stars than there are in the heavens" and 125 of them in scenes from nearly 100 films enliven this joyfest. Judy, Ol' Blue Eyes (and James Stewart!) sing. Astaire, Kelly (and Gable!) dance. From Anchors Aweigh to Ziegfeld Follies, from splashy razzmatazz to splashing in puddles, filmmaker Jack Haley Jr.'s affectionate celebration more than lives up to its name.
My Thoughts:
This is extremely entertaining, but would be better with a chronological organisation and some context. Still I'm very glad to have watched this film, as there quite a few musical numbers I'd never seen before. Recommended if you're a fan of musicals, as this compilation showcases quite a few great numbers.
Bechdel Test: Fail (N/A)
Mako Mori Test: Fail (N/A)
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 16, 2016, 06:43:40 AM
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 19 (17 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 16, 2016, 06:56:51 PM
Movies- 23 (21 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 19 (17 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
:tease:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 17, 2016, 06:13:17 AM
The Three Caballeros
Year of Release: 1944
Directed By: Norman Ferguson
Starring: Clarence Nash, José Oliveira
Genre: Comedy, Musical
Overview:
The ever-popular and excitable Donald Duck stars in one of his greatest adventures – a dazzling blend of live action and classic Disney animation bursting with south-of-the-border sights and sounds!
When Donald receives a magical collection of gifts from his Latin American friends, they become his passport to a fantastic musical journey with Joe Carioca and Panchito, the charro rooster. With these experts to guide him, Donald hops, skips and jumps his way through every splash of local color – each stop full of surprises and sensational songs!
Disney's 7th full-length animated film, The Three Caballeros is a stunning celebration of visual effects, lighthearted dance and lively Latin music. It's fine-feathered fun for the whole family!
My Thoughts:
This is another of Disney's package films, and the third I've watched this month. While they're not as well-known or well-loved as Disney's single narrative features, they've still got fun in them.
The best parts of The Three Caballeros are in the beginning - "The Cold-Blooded Penguin" and "The Flying Gauchito" shorts are funny and cute, and stand up very well with any of Disney's short cartoons. The rest of the film is a romantic travel-log of parts of Latin America, mainly focused on Donald's love of pretty women. The pinata section is pretty funny, and the last part of the film is surreal..
The bird characters are fun, however - both Jose Carioca and Panchito the Mexican rooster are good companions for Donald, and get him into some funny gags. The Aracuan Bird is the most hilarious, though, and practically steals the show. He was my favorite.
There's a lot to be said for the art, and animation technique and innovation, however, and if you're a fan of animation this is definitely a film you should watch at some point. If you don't mind Jose Carioca smoking a cigar, it's likely a decent watch for young children, though you'll probably lose the littlest ones with the dancing ladies and the surrealism in the last segment.
I'd upgrade to blu-ray, if it comes out on the format. It would make a good double-feature release with Saludos Amigos.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 17, 2016, 06:15:56 AM
Movies- 23 (21 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 20 (17 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
I was gone all day, first at work and then wedding shopping with my friend Trish (I'm her maid-of-honor, so we're doing a lot of getting ready for her wedding), so I have a lot of work cut out for me.
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 17, 2016, 02:27:53 PM
Pete:
Movies- 23 (21 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 20 (17 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
I was gone all day, first at work and then wedding shopping with my friend Trish (I'm her maid-of-honor, so we're doing a lot of getting ready for her wedding), so I have a lot of work cut out for me.
Sounds like someone is starting to throw out some excuses! :tease:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 17, 2016, 02:28:28 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192134340f.jpg) | Pitch Perfect (2012/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1981677/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitch_Perfect) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCbwemov-Ag) |
|
Stars:
Anna Kendrick as Beca
Skylar Astin as Jesse
Ben Platt as Benji
Brittany Snow as Chloe
Anna Camp as Aubrey
Plot:
Arriving at her new college, Beca (Anna Kendrick) finds herself not right for any clique but somehow is muscled into one that she never would have picked on her own: alongside mean girls, sweet girls and weird girls whose only thing in common is how good they sound when they sing together. When Beca leads this a cappella singing group out of their traditional arrangements and perfect harmonies into all-new mash-ups, they fight to climb their way to the top of college music competitions.
Pitch Perfect is an outrageously hilarious laugh-out-loud comedy that also stars Anna Camp (The Help), Brittany Snow (Hairspray) and Rebel Wilson (Bridesmaids).
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- BD-Live
- Digital Copy
My Thoughts:
This one I enjoyed quite a bit. Though I have seen better...still above average. The main thing I didn't like here is there is a little gross-out humor. Which is a type of comedy I never liked. Without that I would have rated this one higher. But I liked the story line and liked the characters. Definitely worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 17, 2016, 02:39:49 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192242090f.jpg) | Pitch Perfect 2 (2015/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2848292/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitch_Perfect_2) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TY-u5P9pRwA) |
|
Stars:
Anna Kendrick as Beca
Rebel Wilson as Fat Amy
Hailee Steinfeld as Emily
Brittany Snow as Chloe
Skylar Astin as Jesse
Plot:
Beca (Anna Kendrick), Fat Amy (Rebel Wilson) and the Barden Bellas are back to pitch slap the world! After a scandal threatens to derail their last year at Barden, the three-time defending champs worry that they've lost their harmony for good. With one chance left at redeeming their legacy, they must face off against the toughest competition on the planet: German supergroup Das Sound Machine and fight for their right to win at the World Championships of A Cappella. It will take the power of sisterhood to find their voice and see what it takes to be the world's top pitches!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- BD-Live
- Digital Copy
My Thoughts:
I'm always surprised when I am able to say this... but I enjoyed this one more then the first one. Really it is just more of the same... except they did away with the gross-out humor. Which in my eyes is an improvement over the firs film. I feel comfortable recommending this one. It is worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 17, 2016, 03:27:20 PM
Astaire & Rogers: Partners in Rhythm
Year of Release: 2006
Directed By: Tara Tremaine
Starring: Chuck Klausmeyer (narrator)
Genre: Documentary, Musical
Overview:
Featuring clips from all 10 films Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers made together, from 1933's Flying Down to Rio to 1949's The Barkley's of Broadway, this glorious salute captures the sweat, determination, inspiration, talent and scintillation chemistry that made the team an icon of elegance in motion. Candid photos, behind-the-scenes tidbits and sidelights about such famed Astaire-Rogers collaborators as Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, George Gershwin, Hermes Pan and George Stevens add to the fun. Take some gliding, sliding, tapping, twirling steps back in time with Astaire and Rogers Partners in Rhythm.
My Thoughts:
Fine little retrospective look at the partnership of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, featuring a bit of biography of each but mainly focused on their RKO career together. Brief, but worth a look for fans of the duo. There's still nobody out their like Fred & Ginger.
Bechdel Test: Fail (N/A)
Mako Mori Test: Fail (N/A)
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 17, 2016, 05:06:33 PM
Gene Kelly: Anatomy of a Dancer
Year of Release: 2002
Directed By: Robert Trachtenberg
Starring: Stanley Tucci (narrator)
Genre: Documentary, Musical
Overview:
Everyone feels a connection with Gene Kelly. He's a guy's guy to men. To women, he's a knight whose shining armor is a T-shirt and khakis. And he solidifies that link with a vigorous, athletic way of dance he calls American Style. Gene Kelly makes us all fee like we should be dancing and singing in the rain.
The life and career of this innovator whose work includes Singin' in the Rain, On the Town and An American in Paris are recalled in this study of the driven genius - often narcissistic, always a perfectionist - who reenergized the movie musical and redefined dance on screen. Packed with marvelous clips and interviews with family and Hollywood colleagues, Gene Kelly: Anatomy of a Dancer is the definitive look at a magical talent whose story has never been fully told until now.
My Thoughts:
A really nice biography of Kelly and retrospective of his career. Kelly is not only an icon of dance, but an icon of the American film. Quite thorough and worth a watch for fans of his.
Bechdel Test: Fail (N/A)
Mako Mori Test: Fail (N/A)
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 17, 2016, 07:01:47 PM
Cats
Year of Release: 2001
Directed By: David Mallet
Starring: Elaine Paige, John Mills, Ken Page, Rosemarie Ford, Michael Gruber, John Partridge
Genre: Fantasy, Musical
Overview:
CATS the longest-running musical in Broadway history, the show that changed the face of modern musicals – now as you've never seen it before...and as you'll never see it again!
This ultimate home video version of the Olivier and Tony Award-winning classic boasts an all-star cast headed by Elaine Paige (London's original Grizabella) and Sir John Mills, with music performed by an eighty-piece orchestra. From the opening dance number to the final refrain of Memory, you'll want to experience Cats – Now and Forever!
My Thoughts:
I used to have this soundtrack on cassette. Of course, I upgraded to CD a long time ago. I can sing along with every song - except the Rumpus Cat song, which isn't on the soundtrack. So, for everyone who will never have the opportunity to see this on Broadway (in other words, everyone like me!) this is great. Yes, the story is exceedingly thin. After all, it's all about the competition between cats to be the one picked for the Jellicle Choice, so it's a showcase of each individual cat. Actually it's a showcase of T.S. Elliot's poetry and Lloyd Webber's music, and a triumph of musical theatre. Highly recommended.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 17, 2016, 07:03:12 PM
Movies- 24 (23 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 23 (21 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Pete still needs a review for The Pajama Game and I still need reviews for Begin Again and Buena Vista Social Club.
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 17, 2016, 09:11:13 PM
Pete:
Movies- 25 (23 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 23 (21 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
I still needs a review for The Pajama Game & The Wizard of OZ and Danae Cassandra still has to do reviews for Begin Again and Buena Vista Social Club.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 18, 2016, 03:02:55 AM
Fantasia
Year of Release: 1940
Directed By: Samuel Armstrong, James Algar, Bill Roberts, Paul Satterfield, Hamilton Luske, Jim Handley, Ford Beebe, T. Hee, Norm Ferguson, Wilfred Jackson
Starring: Leopold Stokowski, The Philadelphia Orchestra
Genre: Fantasy, Animation, Musical
Overview:
Walt Disney's animated musical masterpiece is an extravaganza of sight and sound—now brilliantly restored for the first time ever in high definition! Blu-ray technology finally allows you to experience Fantasia—and Fantasia 2000, the triumphant classic it inspired—the way Walt envisioned! Plus, for the first time ever on Blu-ray, experience the 2003 Academy Award®-nominated animated short Destino—the extraordinary collaboration between Walt Disney and legendary artist Salvador Dali!
Revealing new bonus features and commentary bring the Fantasia experience to life, allowing generations of moviegoers all over the world to enjoy this timeless classic like never before. See the music come to life, hear the pictures burst into song and experience the excitement that is Fantasia over and over again.
My Thoughts:
Fabulous music, groundbreaking animation, and one of Disney's bravest and riskiest films. If all the sequences aren't evenly fabulous, there are ones that stand up as absolute classics 77 years after this first came out. My personal favorite is "Night on Bald Mountain," but there is something to be said for all of them. I just wish the introductions weren't there, or just announced the piece of music. They're completely unnecessary.
Boy is that overview misleading though! If by "the way Walt envisioned" you mean sanitized for your enjoyment, then yes, yes it is. Sunflower & Otika are still missing, and they were in the original Walt made. Gad I really hate censorship.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 18, 2016, 07:15:59 AM
Fantasia 2000
Year of Release: 1999
Directed By: Pixote Hunt, Hendel Butoy, Eric Goldberg, James Algar, Francis Glebas, Gaetan Brizzi, Paul Brizzi, Don Hahn
Starring: James Levine, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Genre: Fantasy, Animation, Musical
Overview:
Walt Disney's animated musical masterpiece is an extravaganza of sight and sound—now brilliantly restored for the first time ever in high definition! Blu-ray technology finally allows you to experience Fantasia—and Fantasia 2000, the triumphant classic it inspired—the way Walt envisioned! Plus, for the first time ever on Blu-ray, experience the 2003 Academy Award®-nominated animated short Destino—the extraordinary collaboration between Walt Disney and legendary artist Salvador Dali!
Revealing new bonus features and commentary bring the Fantasia experience to life, allowing generations of moviegoers all over the world to enjoy this timeless classic like never before. See the music come to life, hear the pictures burst into song and experience the excitement that is Fantasia over and over again.
My Thoughts:
This is not only a worthy successor to Fantasia, it's one of the very best Disney sequels. In many ways I like it better than the original. If for nothing else than the introductions are both shorter and better written. The computer animation lacks the warmth of the original's hand-drawn drawn, but some of it is so spectacular as to make that a minor criticism. "Pines of Rome" and "The Firebird" are my personal favorites, though "Rhapsody in Blue" comes in close behind for a lovely trifecta. Recommended if you enjoyed the original film.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 18, 2016, 07:17:40 AM
Movies- 25 (23 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 25 (23 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Pete still needs reviews for The Pajama Game & The Wizard of OZ and I still have to do reviews for Begin Again and Buena Vista Social Club.
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 18, 2016, 07:06:10 PM
| (https://s32.postimg.org/ld9b7zo4l/1580game.jpg) | The Pajama Game (1957/) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050814/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Pajama_Game_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVUSaHYz_Mo) |
|
Stars:
Doris Day
John Raitt
Carol Haney
Eddie Foy, Jr.
Rita Shaw
Plot:
Labor and management at the Sleeptite Pajama Factory aren't sleeping much lately: a proposed 7 1/2 cent hourly wage increase is why - and a strike may result. But negotiations here involve snappy stars, terrific tunes and dynamic dances as Doris Day The Pajama Game.
Extras:
- Scene Access
My Thoughts:
I found this one to be a fun film... even if it is not what I would call a great one. It has a good story line. And while I liked Doris Day's character... I really had mixed feelings for John Riatt's. Through some of the movie I liked him.. but yet at some point I really stopped caring about him. Worth the time put in to watch... but it is not one I will be in a hurry to upgrade.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 18, 2016, 07:31:20 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929087853f.jpg) | The Wizard of Oz: 70th Anniversary Edition (1939/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wizard_of_Oz_(1939_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNugTWHnSfw) |
|
Stars:
Judy Garland as Dorothy
Frank Morgan (1890) as Professor Marvel
Ray Bolger as "Hunk"
Bert Lahr as "Zeke"
Jack Haley (1898) as "Hickory"
Plot:
Whisked away by a swirling tornado, 12-year-old Dorothy, her dog Toto, and even her Kansas farmhouse, sail over the rainbow and into the dazzling land of Oz. Filled with playful Munchkins, enchanted forests and endless surprises, this dream-come-true world is one great adventure after another. But the most wondrous adventure of all begins when Dorothy and her newfound friends go in search of the kingdom's mysterious Wizard and the secret that will lead her home.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- BD-Live
My Thoughts:
This one is a true classic... though one that has been played through-out my life. As I remember it becoming an annual thing of the family all watching it together. But it is a fun movie with a great cast. Well worth the time put to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 18, 2016, 07:40:31 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396366381f.jpg) | Burlesque (2010/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burlesque_(2010_American_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1126591/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jwSAuerU8s) |
|
Stars:
Cher as Tess
Christina Aguilera as Ali
Eric Dane as Marcus
Cam Gigandet as Jack
Julianne Hough as Georgia
Plot:
A small town singer, Ali (Christina Aguilera), moves to the big city for her chance at stardom where she is enchanted by Burlesque, a glamorous nightclub packed with dancers, sizzling music, and an owner in need of a star (Cher). Jam-packed with visually stunning musical numbers and an all-star cast featuring Eric Dane, Kristen Bell and Stacy Tucci.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Featurettes
- Outtakes/Bloopers
My Thoughts:
While the story line was pretty good I found I just didn't care about the characters. And neither Cher or Christina Aguilara impressed me at all here. No more then an average movie at best. So not one I will be recommending or adding to my collection any time soon.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 18, 2016, 07:43:52 PM
Movies- 27 (26 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 25 (23 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
I still need to review Shrek: The Musical and Danae Cassandra still has to do reviews for Begin Again and Buena Vista Social Club.
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 19, 2016, 04:33:35 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543872740f.jpg) | Shrek: The Musical (2013/United States)
|
Stars:
Brian D'Arcy James as Shrek
Sutton Foster as Fiona
Christopher Sieber as Lord Farquaad
John Tartaglia as Pinocchio, The Magic Mirror, Dragon Puppeteer
Daniel Breaker as Donkey
Plot:
The greatest fairy tale never told comes to life as never before in Shrek The Musical, the Tony Award®-winning° Broadway musical based on the smash-hit movie! Featuring a fantastic score of 17 all-new songs, along with unforgettable characters and outrageous humor, Shrek The Musical is ogre-sized fun for the whole family!
°2009, Best Costume Design
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Featurettes
My Thoughts:
This one was recommended by my daughter after she found it on Netflix. I shouldn't be surprised I enjoyed it since I liked the movie so much. I enjoyed the live stage feel of it and the cast did a fine job. Just like I did on the film... I really liked the character of the Donkey. This is one I hope to add to my collection before too long. Definitely recommended....especially if you enjoyed the film.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 19, 2016, 04:55:21 PM
Standing Ovation
Inspired by a music-video contest with a million-dollar prize, five young classmates form a music group called "The 5 Ovations." Despite their limited resources, these street-smart teens have the skill and passion to create awesome song-and-dance numbers, and have a real shot at victory. Standing in their way, however, are "The Wiggies," five rich and unscrupulous sisters who will stop at nothing to win the contest.
My Thoughts:
I found this one on Netflix...I really wasn't all that impressed with it. Sure, it has some entertainment value but I found it to be no more then an average film. And I think I may be being generous saying that much. Probably won't be adding this one to my collection.
My Rating:
I found this one on Netflix...I really wasn't all that impressed with it. Sure, it has some entertainment value but I found it to be no more then an average film. And I think I may be being generous saying that much. Probably won't be adding this one to my collection.
My Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 19, 2016, 06:02:52 PM
Springtime in the Rockies
Year of Release: 1937
Directed By: Joseph Kane
Starring: Gene Autry, Smiley Burnette, Polly Rowles
Genre: Western, Musical
Overview:
Ranch owner Sandra, fresh from animal husbandry school, brings a flock of sheep into cattle country. The local ranchers don't like it, and ranch foreman Gene must deal with it.
My Thoughts:
Not completely terrible, but this film sure is sexist. Gene and the other ranchers sure know better than those educated women from out east. Those gals will fall for anything and forgive the men for treating them like little twits. After all, Gene sure is handsome and romantic.
Still, like I said, it's not a completely terrible B-western. It's short, the plot moves along briskly, and Gene sings several times. Only recommended though, if you appreciate westerns of this age and type.
I watched this on YouTube, where the whole film is available free.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2/5
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 20, 2016, 03:12:14 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936838923f.jpg) | Frozen: Collector's Edition (2013/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frozen_(2013_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2294629/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVnmHHT10wE) |
|
Stars:
Kristen Bell as Anna
Idina Menzel as Elsa
Jonathan Groff as Kristoff
Josh Gad as Olaf
Santino Fontana as Hans
Plot:
Walt Disney Animation Studios presents a chilly twist on one of the most humorous and heartwarming stories ever told. "Disney Animation's best since The Lion King" (William Bibbiani, CraveOnline) will melt your heart.
Fearless optimist Anna sets off on an epic journey — teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven — to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom.
Bring home Frozen on Blu-ray High Definition — featuring a blizzard of never-before-seen bonus extras with gorgeous animation, memorable characters and unforgettable music. It's dazzling fun for the whole family!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Music Videos
- Digital Copy
My Thoughts:
A few people suggested I should watch this one and I must admit I enjoyed it quite a bit. I liked the story line and I liked the message this film has. One you don't see in many Disney films. That being the princesses don't need a prince to save them. This is a film I would like to add to my collection. Especially after finding out that one of the actresses I collect had a voice role in this one. That being Kristen Bell who I first discovered in the TV series Veronica Mars.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 20, 2016, 03:48:47 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/71/717951009753f.jpg) | Mary Poppins: Gold Collection (1964/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058331/) |Wikipedia (http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Poppins) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuWf9fP-A-U) |
|
Stars:
Julie Andrews as Mary Poppins
Dick Van Dyke as Bert
David Tomlinson as Mr. Banks
Glynis Johns as Mrs. Banks
The Domestics
Plot:
Winner of 5 Academy Awards®. including Best Actress (Julie Andrews), Best Song ("Chim Chim Cher-ee") and Best Visual Effects*, Disney's musical masterpiece Mary Poppins has formed an unbreakable bond with audiences of all generations!
In her star-making performance, Julie Andrews plays the lovable nanny who flies out of the windy London skies and into the home of a no-nonsense banker and his mischievious children. Hoping to bridge the gap between them, "practically perfect" Mary Poppins magically turns every chore into a game and every day into a whimsical adventure, including an unforgettable rooftop dance with a carefree chimney sweep named Bert (Dick Van Dyke).
Filled with spellbinding effects and many wondrous, endearing moments – how else could you possibly describe this timeless treat but "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious".
*1964
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Bonus Trailers
- Featurettes
- Interactive Games
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I found this one to be a pretty cute... and fun film. For me the most entertaining of this film had to be Dick Van Dyke... but I have been a fan of his for many years now. I can see how this film has become such a classic over the years. Through-out the beginning of the movie I was trying to figure out just what Mary Poppins is... a good witch?... a fairy god mother?... guardian angel?... what? Then I finally came to the conclusion that this movie took place in a world where magic is a very real thing. Or did I somehow miss some big reveal? Over-all I would say this is a fun classic musical that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 20, 2016, 04:44:20 AM
Movies- 30
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 26 (23 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: GSyren on July 20, 2016, 04:46:34 AM
It's a fairy tale. Don't most fairy tales take place in an alternate reality where strange things like magic are possible?
Mary Poppins is just ... Mary Poppins.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 20, 2016, 05:08:32 AM
Buena Vista Social Club
Year of Release: 1999
Directed By: Wim Wenders
Starring: Octavio Calderón, Joachim Cooder, Ry Cooder, Angel Terri Domech, Ibrahim Ferrer
Genre: Documentary, Music
Overview:
"The Buena Vista Social Club," guitarist Ry Cooder's celebrated album featuring the recently re-discovered talents of Cuba's foremost folk musicians, sold millions of copies and earned a Grammy Award. Now, Cooder teams up with acclaimed director Wim Wenders (Paris, Texas) to reveal the astonishing life stories, vibrant personalities and unforgettable music of the brilliantly talented but long-overlooked performers who collaborated on this now-legendary recording. From the crumbling barrios of their native Havana, to their triumphant, sold-out concerts in Amsterdam and New York's Carnegie Hall, it's an unforgettable, deeply emotional journey into the passion, pride and humanity of the artists whose music sparked a worldwide musical phenomenon!
My Thoughts:
I've always loved Latin music, and these guys do not disappoint. They are fabulous, and the story of how these guys were all but forgotten and then made a triumphant return/rediscovery in their golden years is quite inspiring. The film is an excellent documentation of the making of the album, but it could have benefited from including some history of Cuban music and discussing these wonderful musicians in context.
Despite that, if you enjoy Cuban and Latin music I cannot recommend this film highly enough for how good the music here is.
Bechdel Test: Fail (N/A)
Mako Mori Test: Fail (N/A)
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 20, 2016, 05:08:58 AM
Movies- 30
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 26 (25 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 20, 2016, 01:12:52 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/75/758445115628f.jpg) | Reefer Madness: The Movie Musical (2005/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0404364/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reefer_Madness_(2005_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWlNez5bW1E) |
|
Stars:
Kristen Bell as Mary Lane
Christian Campbell as Jimmy Harper
Neve Campbell as Miss Poppy
Alan Cumming as Lecturer/Goat-Man/FDR
Ana Gasteyer as Mae Coleman
Plot:
Inspired by the legendary 1936 film of the same name, Reefer Madness is a tongue-in-cheek raucous musical comedy about clean-cut kids who fall into a twisted, hilarious downward spiral of reefer, sex and mayhem! A straight-laced high school lecturer (Alan Cumming) seeks to impart his wisdom to frightened parents about the "demon weed" by telling the frightful tale of two innocent teens. Mary Lane (Kristen Bell) and Jimmy Harper (Christian Campbell), who fall under the spell of the public's enemy #1 and quickly find themselves in a world of evil jazz music, dance and madness. Filled with outrageously funny and musical performances by Neve Campbell, Christian Campbell, Kristen Bell and Steven Weber, Reefer Madness is the feel good event of the year that should not be missed!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Production Notes
- Closed Captioned
- Original 1936 black & white film included
My Thoughts:
I found this one on Amazon Prime and decided to give it a chance since it stars Kristen Bell. And while I know what the movie was attempting to do...I personally just couldn't get into it much. I mean it does have it's moments here and there... but for the most part I struggled to finish it. I was actually surprised this one had such a high rating on IMDB (7.1). While I like to collect the works of Kristen Bell... not sure I can add this one to my collection.
Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 20, 2016, 02:34:50 PM
Hi-De-Ho
Year of Release: 1947
Directed By: Josh Binney
Starring: Cab Calloway, Ida James, Jeni Le Gon
Genre: Musical
Overview:
Bandleader Cab Calloway is tiring of his sexy girlfriend Minnie, who in turn is jealous of Cab's manager Nettie. When Nettie gets Cab a job at the Brass Hat Club, Minnie retaliates for his imagined infidelity by setting gangster Boss Mason, owner of a rival club, against him. Will she regret her action before it's too late?
My Thoughts:
The plot is really thin and none of the performers can act. Seriously, they are all about as good as the cast of a high school play. Fortunately that plot only takes up half the film, interspersed with music. The second half is all music, and the music is the reason to watch this. What Calloway lacks in acting chops he makes up for in fabulous jive.
If this was just the music I'd rate the film higher, but the plot parts really drag. Recommended only for the music - and hit fast-forward when those aren't on.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.5/5
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 20, 2016, 02:58:25 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/61/617742113396f.jpg) | Private Buckaroo (1942/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0035218/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_Buckaroo) |
|
Stars:
Patty Andrews as Herself
Maxene Andrews as Herself
Laverne Andrews as Herself
Dick Foran as Lon Prentice
Joe E Lewis as Lancelot Pringle McBiff
Plot:
The army looks like a pretty fun place to be in this upbeat WWII musical from 1942. It's the story of Lon Prentice, a rebellious young inductee who has trouble following orders during basic training until he hooks up with a retired officer's lovely daughter. Along the way, he and his buddies attend USO dances headlined by the Andrews Sisters (the hit girl group of their day) and the hot trumpet of bandleader Harry James. There's also some fancy footwork from "The Jivin' Jacks & Jills." Drill Sergeant Shemp Howard tries hard to convince the boys to take the war seriously, but Lon is too busy wooing the Colonel's daughter. Starring The Andrews Sisters, Dick Foran, Joe E. Lewis, Ernest Truex, Jennifer Holt, Shemp Howard, Harry James and Donald O'Connor.
Extras:
My Thoughts:
I found this one to be a right fun film. For music we have the Andrew Sisters... for comedy we have Shemp Howard. I found myself laughing out loud on more then one occasion and the short run time made for a quick and easy watch.
Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 21, 2016, 07:05:59 AM
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Year of Release: 1975
Directed By: Jim Sharman
Starring: Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Richard O'Brien, Patricia Quinn
Genre: Comedy, Science-Fiction, Horror, Musical
Overview:
You asked for The Rocky Horror Picture Show on Blu-ray and you shall receive it... in abundance!
Recreate the Midnight Movie Experience in your living room and celebrate 35 years of absolute pleasure with this picture-perfect specimen of Richard O’Brien’s cosmic cult classic starring Tim Curry, Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon.
It’s brimming with twisted humor, mind-blowing music and decedent extras.
So come up to the lab...
See what’s on the slab...
And Let The Film Begin!
My Thoughts:
I don't know that I'm the right person to write a review for this film. Because I unabashedly love it. Sure, I know it regularly gets listed as a "so-bad-it's-good" film, but I've never seen how this is a bad movie. I love Tim Curry as Frank, and not just because he looks super hot in drag. It's completely over-the-top on every level, and it works, absolutely works, for this film. This is a ridiculous amount of fun - especially if you can get to a midnight showing - but the film works for me on its own, just watching it at home. A personal favorite.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 21, 2016, 07:07:11 AM
Movies- 32
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 28 (27 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 21, 2016, 04:18:51 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I7/I70050F82351A30D5f.jpg) | The Parent Trap (1961/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0055277/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Parent_Trap_(1961_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPwdY-XIXc4) |
|
Stars:
Hayley Mills as Sharon McKendrick/Susan Evers
Maureen O'Hara as Margaret 'Maggie' McKendrick
Brian Keith] as Mitch Evers
Charles Ruggles as Charles McKendrick
Una Merkel as Verbena Evers' Housekeeper
Plot:
Hayley Mills, Special Academy Award® winner for 1960's Pollyanna, lights up the screen in Disney's fondly remembered release of The Parent Trap. Mills stars as Susan and Sharon, identical twins separated at birth. Neither twin knows the other exists until a simple twist of fate finds them at the same summer camp. Then, realizing who they are, they plan a little twist of their own. They switch places with high hopes of getting their parents back together. This delightful and heartwarming comedy will have your whole family doubling up with laughter.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A fun film with lots of laughs. I saw on some review pages this was considered a musical and I can see it... as there is some singing and dancing in this film. But it seems to be a very minor part of the film as there is only a couple songs in the entire film. My kind of musica! LOL. Anyway I liked this one a lot! Definitely recommended!
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 21, 2016, 04:50:46 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192016028f.jpg) | Hercules & Xena: The Battle for Mount Olympus (1998/United States) Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErLWiy9TY_Q) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hercules_and_Xena_%E2%80%93_The_Animated_Movie:_The_Battle_for_Mount_Olympus) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119283/) |
|
Stars:
Kevin Sorbo as Hercules
Lucy Lawless as Xena
Michael Hurst as Iolaus
Renee O'Connor as Gabrielle
Kevin Smith as Ares
Plot:
Starring the voices of Kevin Sorbo as the Real Hercules, and Lucy Lawless as the Only Xena: Warrior Princess, this feature-length animated spectacular catapults the mythical exploits of their popular live-action TV series into a legendary new dimension!
When Hera, the constantly scheming Queen of the Gods, decides it is time to rule the universe, she plots a takeover by freeing the dreaded Titans from the underworld where they have been imprisoned for eons. With the monsterously vindictive titans on the loose, and the powerful Chronos Stone in Hera's hands, even the combined forces of Hercules and Xena, joined by their trusty sidekicks lolaus and Gabrielle, may not be enough to win "The Battle For Mount Olympus"! Brought to life with all of the spellbinding action of the hit TV shows, and charged with the supernatural visuals of cutting-edge animation, it's a breathtaking all-family adventure...fit for the Gods!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Production Notes
My Thoughts:
An entertaining film... especially if you liked the series. But definitely not what I would call great. Basically an average movie... maybe a little above average. I do like they got the cast of the two series to do the voices for this film.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 21, 2016, 05:06:49 PM
Movies- 34
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 28 (27 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: GSyren on July 21, 2016, 05:28:07 PM
Aren't you stretching the definition of musical in order to get through the marathon with your sanity intact? :training: ;)
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 21, 2016, 05:43:39 PM
Trocadero
Year of Release: 1944
Directed By: William Nigh
Starring: Rosemary Lane, Johnny Downs, Ralph Morgan, Dick Purcell, Sheldon Leonard
Genre: Comedy, Musical
Overview:
Judy and Johnny are orphaned siblings being raised by Tony, a Hollywood restaurateur who knows no limit in supporting his adopted children. When Tony dies suddenly, one of them has to return home from college to keep the establishment open. They sign a variety of entertaining acts and some exciting jazz performers.
My Thoughts:
Here we have a thin but serviceable story of a brother and sister struggling to make a success of their father's nightclub and finding love along the way. The acting isn't the greatest, but they aren't completely terrible either. The cast is made up of reliable actors, if not stars.
Still, the reason to watch this is the big band and swing music acts that populate the nightclub. Ida James doing "Shoo Shoo Baby" is a particular treat. There are some novelty bits that are also amusing, especially Dave Fleischer's little animated character. Still, I can't exactly recommend it for everyone. If you like musicals of this era, and you don't mind B-movies, this isn't a terrible film. It's also nothing special.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.5/5
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 21, 2016, 08:01:28 PM
Is this really a musical?
Aren't you stretching the definition of musical in order to get through the marathon with your sanity intact? :training: ;)
What? The Hercules & Xena animated film? Yes it is definitely a musical. In the short film there is 3 or 4 musical numbers.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 21, 2016, 09:12:15 PM
Movies- 35 (34 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 30 (28 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 21, 2016, 10:52:09 PM
Private Buckaroo
Year of Release: 1942
Directed By: Edward F. Cline
Starring: The Andrews Sisters, Dick Foran, Shemp Howard, Harry James & His Music Makers, The Jivin Jacks and Jills
Genre: Comedy, War, Musical
Overview:
The barest of plots has Harry James being drafted. Naturally, his whole orchestra signs up, too, including Lon Prentice (Dick Foran), his singer who has an attitude adjustment problem. We see the high-jinks of training, a romantic encounter that will serve to straighten Prentice out, and a big show just before the boys ship overseas. All this is just a clothesline to pin on at least 13 musical numbers, and The Andrews Sisters and Harry James do most of them.
My Thoughts:
This is a quick little WWII propaganda musical featuring the Andrews Sisters, whose singing I enjoy a lot but I know isn't for everyone, and Harry James playing some great trumpet. Sure, there's some plot in there too about Harry and his band joining the army and one guy having to learn that he's nothing special, but that's not the point of the film. The point is to recruit. Shemp Howard and Mary Wickes are a lot of fun too, especially Wickes. Recommended if you like these sorts of films.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.75/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 22, 2016, 02:30:32 AM
Dumbo
Year of Release: 1941
Directed By: Ben Sharpsteen
Starring: Herman Bing, Billy Bletcher, Edward Brophy, Jim Carmichael, Cliff Edwards
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Musical
Overview:
For the first time ever, in celebration of this landmark film's 70th anniversary, experience the daring adventures of the world's only flying elephant with a dazzling all-new digital restoration and brilliant Disney Enhanced High Definition Theater Mix Sound. The inspirational tale of Dumbo, the courageous baby elephant who uses his sensational ears to soar to fame with the help of his clever best friend Timothy Q. Mouse, will thrill and delight audiences of all ages. And now, the award-winning music and empowering messages about friendship and belief in yourself reach new heights in this must-have Blu-ray high definition presentation of Walt Disney's animated classic, Dumbo!
My Thoughts:
What a cute, fun little movie. I'm not sure I'd seen it before, though I well remember reading the story from a set of Disney books I had as a kid. I know this gets a bit of flack on the subject of racism, especially about the crows, but I don't exactly agree. Yes, they are meant to be African-American, and the way you determine this is by their accent. But unlike the majority of the characters in the film, they show compassion toward Dumbo and change their attitude toward him before he becomes a star. They're some of the best characters in the film.
Recommended for just about anyone, unless you're super sensitive to political correctness, in which case don't watch any cartoons of this era.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 22, 2016, 03:14:30 AM
All-American Co-Ed
Year of Release: 1941
Directed By: LeRoy Prinz
Starring: Frances Langford, Johnny Downs, Marjorie Woodworth, Noah Beery Jr.
Genre: Comedy, Musical
Overview:
All-girl school Mar Brynn tries to get more pupils and publicity by making fun of the Quincton college. For revenge, the boys there sent Bob Sheppard to Mar Brynn, dressed as a girl, to give them a slight scandal. But he falls in love with Virginia, the girl who is putting on a show there. Now Bob has the problem of getting revenge for Quinceton and not loosing his girl, especially when Quinceton hears about his relationship and decides to sent him support...
My Thoughts:
Toss some drag, terrible female impersonation, a bit of romance, and a lot of innuendo in the script and you actually get a funny comedy. I chuckled several times. It's no great cinema, but unlike the other films I've watched in the Mill Creek set this is part of, the actors and script aren't the weakest part.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.75/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 22, 2016, 04:24:22 AM
The Duke is Tops
Year of Release: 1938
Directed By: William L. Nolte
Starring: Ralph Cooper, Lena Horne, Laurence Criner, Monte Hawley
Genre: Romance, Musical
Overview:
Lena Horne stars as Ethel Andrews, a young featured singer who is given the chance to work a Broadway show but things take a turn for the worse without her fiancee's behind-the-scenes support.
My Thoughts:
Notable for a leading performance from a young Lena Horne; otherwise forgettable.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 22, 2016, 04:25:32 AM
Movies- 35 (34 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 34 (32 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 22, 2016, 06:01:55 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929253951f.jpg) | Little Shop of Horrors: The Director's Cut (1986/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091419/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Shop_of_Horrors_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWu1Q16AV5U) |
|
Stars:
Director's CutLevi Stubbs as The Voice of "AUDREY II" (Voice)
Rick Moranis as Seymour Krelborn
Ellen Greene as Audrey
Vincent Gardenia as Mushnik
Plot:
A comedy, a love story and a cult classic starring a giant singing plant from outer space — what else could it be but Little Shop of Horrors? The 1986 film has a surprisingly complex history; it began as a short story, then became a low-budget film, before turning into an Off-Broadway play, when finally Frank Oz and his team created this quirky, dark screen version. Many fans do not know that this adaptation originally had a far more sinister ending, which everyone can now see in the Director’s Cut of the film included in this special edition package.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Outtakes/Bloopers
- Theatrical Edition and Director's Cut
My Thoughts:
While this one is definitely over the top... it is a fun and entertaining film with a lot of big stars of the time. Definitely worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 22, 2016, 06:10:39 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936811438f.jpg) | Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure (2011/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1629440/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharpay's_Fabulous_Adventure) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR-aejb7_io) |
|
Stars:
Ashley Tisdale as Sharpay Evans
Austin Butler as Peyton Leverett
Cameron Goodman as Amber Lee Adams
Alec Mapa as Gill
Jack Plotnick as Neal
Plot:
Just how fabulous do you have to be to make it big in the Big Apple? One aspiring diva is about to find out...the hard way! Ashley Tisdale shines in this totally captivating comedy.
After a talent scout spots her performing with her dog Boi at a charity gala, Sharpay Evans (Tisdale) sets off for the bright lights of NYC, convinced instant fame and fortune are in the bag (designer bag, that is). But theatre's a dog-eat-dog world, as she and Boi discover when they encounter the devious owner of a pampered pooch named "Countess" and a scheming Broadway starlet who will do anything to crush the competition. Fortunately, Sharpay also meets Peyton (Austin Butler), a handsome student filmmaker who finds Sharpay nearly as fascinating as she finds herself.
Sparkling with fun, fashion and fantastic bonus features, Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure will make your whole family stand up and cheer!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Bonus Trailers
- Featurettes
- Outtakes/Bloopers
My Thoughts:
This is the second time I have watched this film now. And now that I have seen a couple of the High School Musical films I have a little background on the main character and seen just how much growth she has done since the first film. Which helped me enjoy her character a "LITTLE" more. Other then that I will just repeat what I said the first time I watched this film...
Lets see... what does this film have? Unlikable characters? Check. Predictability? Check. Entertaining? Also check. To be honest with you I don't know why I enjoyed this one at all. But I did like it. Far from a great movie but entertaining and I can see myself watching it again at some point. I mentioned unlikable charcters. Unfortunately I don't mean just the ones you are not supposed to like. But many characters including Ashley Tisdale's... who is the main star of the film. Granted it is supposed to show her growth as a person. But even then while better she wasn't what I would call likable. I mentioned it being predictable. And I mean just that. Way too predictable. I pretty much called the movie in the first 10 minutes. But then this is a Disney family film so I shouldn't be surprised by that. With all that said... why did I find this film entertaining at all? And I just don't know... but after all that I enjoyed it and happy I got around to watching it. Go figure!
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 22, 2016, 06:15:56 AM
Movies- 36
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 34 (32 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 23, 2016, 07:30:42 AM
Ziegfeld Follies
Year of Release: 1945
Directed By: Vincente Minnelli
Starring: Fred Astaire, Lucille Ball, Lucille Bremer, Fanny Brice, Judy Garland, Lena Horne, Gene Kelly
Genre: Comedy, Musical
Overview:
Heaven's harps and wings are nice, but what showman extraordinaire Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. wants most now that he's no longer on Earth is to put on another extravaganza. It would have the brightest stars and creative talents. The most glamour, gams and optimism. In short, it would be like Ziegfeld Follies.
With a Who's Who of credited and uncredited Hollywood talents, this all-star revue is heaven to fans of musicals. Fred Astaire dazzles once, twice...four numbers in all. Red Skelton reprises his funny Guzzler's Gin skit. Esther Williams swims, Lena Horne sings and Judy Garland spoofs snobbery. There's Verdi opera and Fanny Brice vaudeville. Patter and pantomime. And The Babbitt and the Bromide, with Gene Kelly joining Astaire in their first-ever screen pairing. What a show! The man called Flo must be proud.
My Thoughts:
Sure, there's no story here, just musical numbers and skits held together on the premise of Florenz Ziegfeld staging one of his Follies in 1945, but it's still a lot of fun for fans of musicals. Yes, the best treat is watching Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly dance together, but the rest of the numbers are still pretty good. Okay, except for maybe the last one. I wasn't too fond of Kathryn Grayson's singing. I think it's just the style, though, she's too high and wavery for my taste. Of the comedy bits, both mom and I laughed most at Red Skelton, though we also enjoyed Fanny Brice's bit as well.
May I say also, that, while "Limehouse Blues" was a beautiful and creative number, and I love Fred Astaire and he does a great job with Lucille Bremer, it really would have been better with an Asian cast. Yeah, 1940's and all that, but still, would have been better.
Recommended if you enjoy old musicals, but know what you're getting into here.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 23, 2016, 07:31:40 AM
Movies- 37 (36 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 35 (33 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 24, 2016, 03:40:11 AM
Little Shop of Horrors
Year of Release: 1986
Directed By: Frank Oz
Starring: Levi Stubbs, Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin
Genre: Comedy, Horror, Musical
Overview:
A comedy, a love story and a cult classic starring a giant singing plant from outer space — what else could it be but Little Shop of Horrors? The 1986 film has a surprisingly complex history; it began as a short story, then became a low-budget film, before turning into an Off-Broadway play, when finally Frank Oz and his team created this quirky, dark screen version. Many fans do not know that this adaptation originally had a far more sinister ending, which everyone can now see in the Director’s Cut of the film included in this special edition package.
My Thoughts:
What a great little fun film! It's the only musical I know that has a carnivorous plant bent on world propagation. The cast is great, and the tunes are so catchy - I've had "Feed Me" in the back of my mind since I first saw this film in the 80's.
Really recommend watching the director's cut instead of the theatrical release, and that cut makes it well worth the upgrade to blu-ray. The original ending is much, much better (and darker). Recommended for fans of musicals and monster movies everywhere.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 24, 2016, 07:30:06 AM
The Last Unicorn
Year of Release: 1982
Directed By: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Jr.
Starring: Alan Arkin, Jeff Bridges, Mia Farrow, Tammy Grimes, Robert Klein, Angela Lansbury, Christopher Lee
Genre: Fantasy, Musical, Animation
Overview:
In this whimsical, animated film, a lone unicorn seeks out others like herself through a mystical land of talking cats and spellbinding magicians. Based on the book by Peter S. Beagle, this story has enamored the hearts of fans – young and old – from around the globe.
In her search for other unicorns, the last unicorn encounters a cast of delightful characters as well as dangers she never imagined. Throughout the fantastic adventure, she learns of friendship, love and most importantly her true self.
Discover the magic that has kept this tale a treasured classic. Featuring the voices of Jeff Bridges, Mia Farrow and Angela Lansbury, the story brings forth the power of friendship, the beauty of love and the pain of regret. Interlaced with songs and ethereal imagery, The Last Unicorn will reignite the hearts of its fans and entrance all who enter.
My Thoughts:
I adore this film. I've loved it since I first saw it as a child and I love it still. Yes, there is a certain nostalgia factor to this, but there are things we love as children that don't hold up as adults (the Dungeons and Dragons cartoon comes to mind). This does. It speaks to me now just as much as it did in the 80's. It has wonderful songs provided by America, and characters that are unique. I love both the tragic love story, and the one that isn't ... and that those who end happily aren't the beautiful people. It's a story of love, heroism, selfishness and sacrifice. It's also pretty true to Beagle's book, which I would highly recommend as well.
For me, this is a nigh-perfect film, and a long-time personal favorite. I know it isn't truly a 5-star film, but I don't see it as anything less.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass
Overall: 5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 24, 2016, 07:31:15 AM
Movies- 38 (36 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 36 (35 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 24, 2016, 02:34:52 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936843538f.jpg) | 101 Dalmatians: Diamond Edition (1961/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0055254/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Hundred_and_One_Dalmatians) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q_98VlWLF4) |
|
Stars:
Rod Taylor as Pongo
J. Pat O'Malley as Colonel/Jasper Badun
Betty Lou Gerson as Cruella De Vil/Miss Birdwell
Martha Wentworth as Nanny/Queenie/Lucy
Ben Wright as Roger Radcliff
Plot:
Pick your favorite spot to watch—anytime and anywhere—and get ready for a fun-filled adventure with 101 Dalmatians for the first time ever on Blu-ray and Digital HD!
Pongo, Perdita and their super-adorable puppies are in for thrills, hilarious spills and an epic action-packed adventure when they face off with Cruella De Vil, Disney's most fabulously outrageous villainess. Unleash all the excitement and suspense of Disney's 101 Dalmatians, a beloved classic you'll want to share with your family again and again!
Extras:
My Thoughts:
This is a fun classic Disney animated film. One I have not seen since I was a little kid. The style of the animation, while much simpler then what we are used to today, brought flashbacks of my childhood. The story here is fun and keeps your interest with ease. I definitely recommend it... think this is one everyone should see at least once.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 24, 2016, 02:45:10 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936735321f.jpg) | Pinocchio: 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition (1940/United States)
|
Stars:
Dickie Jones as Pinocchio
Don Brodie as Barker
Walter Catlett as J. Worthington Foulfellow
Frankie Darro as Lampwick
Cliff Edwards as Jiminy Cricket
Plot:
Celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Walt Disney's Pinocchio! The legendary masterpiece that inspired millions to believe in their dreams has reawakened with an all-new, state-of-the-art digital restoration that shines brilliantly on 2-disc DVD. Now, for the first time ever, the richly detailed animation, unforgettable award-winning music ("When You Wish Upon A Star") and heartwarming adventure-filled story come to life like never before. Plus all-new dazzling bonus features transport you into Pinocchio's fantastic world!
Join Geppetto's beloved puppet — with Jiminy Cricket as his guide — on a thrilling quest that tests Pinocchio's bravery, loyalty and honesty, virtues he must learn to become a real boy. The one and only Pinocchio will live on forever in the heart of anyone who has wished upon a star.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Interactive Games
- Music Videos
- Pinocchio's Matter Of Facts-on screen trivia.
My Thoughts:
This is another classic animated Disney film I haven't seen since I was a little kid. I remember loving this one as a kid... and I still found it rather enjoyable but probably not as much as I remember it being. It is a fun little story that is well worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 24, 2016, 04:49:48 PM
Untamed Youth
Year of Release: 1990 (1957)
Directed By: Howard W. Koch
Starring: Trace Beaulieu, Josh Weinstein, Joel Hodgson (Mamie Van Doren, Lori Nelson, John Russell)
Genre: Comedy (Drama)
Overview:
The generation gap gets political in this 1957 tale starring legend Mamie Van Doren. Two beautiful and talented sisters on their way to Tinseltown are arrested on trumped-up charges by a corrupt judge and conveniently sentenced to work on the farm of her boyfriend, the local agriculture magnate. There, they join similarly exploited teens working off their own sentences. But when the judge's honest son catches on to the scheme – and one of the sisters – justice, labor reform and rock 'n' roll are not far behind.
My Thoughts:
I don't know if the movie is really so bad as to rate a single star. I couldn't make it all the way through the MST3K episode I watched of this film. That's really more about the show then the movie. I've heard about it for years and thought this was the perfect time to give it a chance. This style of comedy is not for me - I found it incredibly annoying. I'll stick to just watching bad movies as themselves.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Unknown
Overall: 1/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 24, 2016, 04:51:15 PM
Movies- 39 (38 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 37 (36 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 24, 2016, 04:56:04 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192076725f.jpg) | Phantom of the Opera: Classic Monster Collection (1943/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phantom_of_the_Opera_(1943_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0036261/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QodhD9AnFdQ) |
|
Stars:
Nelson Eddy as Anatole Garron
Susanna Foster as Christine DuBois
Claude Rains as Erique Claudin
Edgar Barrier as Raoul Daubert
Leo Carrillo as Signor Ferretti
Plot:
This spectacular retelling of Gaston Leroux's immortal horror tale stars Claude Rains as the masked phantom of the Paris opera house – a crazed composer who schemes to make a beautiful young soprano (Susanna Foster) the star of the opera company and wreak revenge on those who stole his music. Nelson Eddy, the heroic baritone, tries to win the affections of Foster as he tracks down the disfigured "monster" who has begin murdering those who resist his mad demands. This lavish production remains a masterpiece not only of the genre, but for all time.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Production Notes
- DVD-ROM Content
My Thoughts:
I just could not get into this one. While it may have had a moment here and there that caught my interest I literally had to force myself to finish this film. First of all I found that opera is just not for me... no way no how! And even then most the scenes without the opera I found to be slow and boring. Oh well... they can't all be winners!
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 25, 2016, 05:29:03 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929404063f.jpg) | Grease: Rockin' Rydell Edition (1978/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077631/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grease_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNhZNp9GXb8) |
|
Stars:
John Travolta as Danny
Olivia Newton-John as Sandy
Stockard Channing as Rizzo
Jeff Conaway as Kenickie
Barry Pearl as Doody
Plot:
Go back to high school with Pink Lady Sandy (Olivia Newton-John), leader of the bad-boy T-Birds, Danny (John Travolta), and a rockin' and rollin' all-star cast. Now available for the first time as a remastered Special Edition Blu-ray Disc, and featuring rockin' bonus materials, Grease: Rockin' Rydell Edition is the word!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Interviews
- Rydell Sing-Along
My Thoughts:
This film holds a special place in my heart as it was one of my wife's favorite. While not the best film in the world I really enjoyed it. I liked both the setting and the storyline. Matter of fact I think the last time I watched this one I rated it a little low. Well worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 25, 2016, 07:22:14 AM
Pete:
Movies- 41 (40 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 38 (36 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Only 6 days left in our competition... will I be able to keep my lead? I got to admit... I feel myself having a harder and harder time getting through all these musicals! For the first time in the entire month I am starting to worry.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 25, 2016, 01:48:15 PM
Grease
Year of Release: 1978
Directed By: Randal Kleiser
Starring: John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing, Jeff Conaway
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Musical
Overview:
Go back to high school with Pink Lady Sandy (Olivia Newton-John), leader of the bad-boy T-Birds, Danny (John Travolta), and a rockin' and rollin' all-star cast. Now available for the first time as a remastered Special Edition Blu-ray Disc, and featuring rockin' bonus materials, Grease: Rockin' Rydell Edition is the word!
My Thoughts:
I think I am too old to watch this movie for the first time. Maybe I would have had a different reaction seeing this for the first time when I was in high school. Sitting here on the other side of that by a quarter-century, the film seems awfully silly. Still, that wouldn't be as much of a problem if I had liked the characters. But the only one I liked was Frenchie. I found Sandy to be very blah, and Danny to be a jerk. The dance numbers and songs were pretty descent, and they pushed it just this side of over average.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 25, 2016, 01:49:24 PM
Movies- 41 (40 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 39 (38 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 26, 2016, 12:21:37 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929304158f.jpg) | Grease 2 (1982/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084021/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grease_2) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfM4Gt4TIYw) |
|
Stars:
Maxwell Caulfield as Michael
Michelle Pfeiffer as Stephanie
Lorna Luft as Paulette
Maureen Teefy as Sharon
Alison Price as Rhonda
Plot:
Return to rockin' Rydell High for a whole new term! It's 1961, two years after the original Grease™ gang graduated, and there's a new crop of seniors – and new members of the coolest cliques on campus, the Pink Ladies and T-Birds. Michael Carrington (Maxwell Caulfield) is the new kid in school, but he's been branded a brainiac. Can he fix up an old motorcycle, don a leather jacket, avoid a rumble with the leader of the T-Birds (Adrian Zmed), and win the heart of Pink Lady Stephanie Zinone (Michelle Pfeiffer)? He's surely going to try!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
No, this one is not as good as the first one. But like the first one this one holds a bit of a special place in my hert. Plus I like this one for the fact that it has motorcycles instead of cars. I have always liked motorcycles. So while I don't know that I would recommend this one to others....I enjoy getting to see this one every now and then.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 26, 2016, 12:34:16 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398106418f.jpg) | Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0963194/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Repo!_The_Genetic_Opera) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzgpU25C6fg) |
|
Stars:
Alexa Vega as Shilo Wallace
Paul Sorvino as Rotti Largo
Anthony Head [Anthony Stewart Head] as Nathan/Repo Man
Sarah Brightman as Blind Mag
Paris Hilton as Amber Sweet
Plot:
In the not-so-distant future, a worldwide epidemic of organ failures devastates the planet. Out of the tragedy, a savior emerges: GENECO, a biotech company that offers organ transplants...for a price. Those who miss their payments are scheduled for repossession...and hunted by the REPO man!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Bonus Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Gallery
My Thoughts:
I had no idea what to expect going into this one. I found it to be nothing more then an average film as I liked the story... but didn't care much for the style. I found it to just be a little too much on the weird side for my taste. I did like seeing Anthony Stewert Head in something other then Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 26, 2016, 02:52:19 AM
Pete:
Movies- 43 (42 reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 39 (38 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 26, 2016, 04:24:51 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543400745f.jpg) | Move Over, Darling: Cinema Classics Collection (1963/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0057329/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Move_Over,_Darling) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtvOl_KlWkk) |
|
Stars:
Doris Day as Ellen Wagstaff Arden aka Eva Swensen
James Garner as Nicholas Arden
Polly Bergen as Bianca Steele Arden
Thelma Ritter as Grace Arden
Fred Clark (1914) as Mr. Codd
Plot:
Say "I do" to "madcap comedy" (Box Office) and "exuberant farce" (Film Daily) in this feel-good romp about one groom, two wives and one delightfully daffy honeymoon! Starring Doris Day, James Garner and Polly Bergen, Move Over, Darling is "a funny, funny film!" (Hollywood Citizen News) that's the perfect union of "humor, romance and heart" (The Hollywood Reporter)!
Five years after losing his first wife Ellen (Day) at sea, Nick (Garner) is finally ready to have her declared legally dead, get remarried and settle down to a peaceful second marriage! But wedded bliss becomes marital mayhem when Ellen turns up alive – with a hilarious, hair-brained scheme to win back her husband, put a stop to the honeymoon and give first love a second chance...at happily-ever-after!
Extras:
My Thoughts:
While I don't know Iwould call it one... but both Netflix and IMDB calls this one a musical. There is a couple songs in it is all. But what I did find here is a fun comedy... I enjoyed it very much. Lots of laughs here and lots of familiar faces. This is one I feel comfortable recommending.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 26, 2016, 04:55:19 PM
The Stars are Singing
A 15-year-old Polish girl attempts to enter the U.S. illegally, setting off a major search by immigration officials. She is befriended by a struggling group of New York performers, who try to get approval for her to remain in the country.
My Thoughts:
I found this one on Amazon Prime. While entertaining enough I really didn't find anything special here. Just an average...maybe a little above average film. It is worth the time put in to watch it, but I won't be in any hurry to add it to my collection.
My Rating:
I found this one on Amazon Prime. While entertaining enough I really didn't find anything special here. Just an average...maybe a little above average film. It is worth the time put in to watch it, but I won't be in any hurry to add it to my collection.
My Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 27, 2016, 04:58:03 AM
Alice in Wonderland
Year of Release: 1951
Directed By: Clyde Geronimi, Hamilton Luske, Wilfred Jackson
Starring: Kathryn Beaumont, Ed Wynn, Richard Haydn, Sterling Holloway
Genre: Fantasy, Animation, Musical
Overview:
Experience the magic and majesty of this ultimate collector's dream. For the first time, Walt Disney's timeless classic bursts into brilliance in Blu-ray High Definition! Featuring Disney Enhanced Home Theater Mix, this remarkable digital restoration boasts pristine sound and unparalleled picture quality. Plus, bonus features including "Through The Keyhole: A Companion's Guide To Wonderland" and an exciting interactive game, "Painting The Roses Red," have been designed for this landmark release.
Join Alice as she chases the White Rabbit and journeys into a topsy-turvy world that gets "curiouser and curiouser" as her fantastical adventures unfold. Meet the Mad Hatter, March Hare, Tweedledee & Tweedledum, the Cheshire Cat, the Queen of Hearts and more unforgettable characters, all set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring splendor.
My Thoughts:
Aptly captures a lot of the nonsense of Carroll's work while ultimately ignoring the true whimsy of it. Still, Disney's film is a lot of fun - colorful, silly and creative. I do wish the film struck more of a balance between the world of logic and rules and the world of imagination and nonsense. That's the one thing that the newer Alice films do better than this one, IMO.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 27, 2016, 05:33:46 AM
Peter Pan
Year of Release: 1953
Directed By: Hamilton Luske, Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson
Starring: Bobby Driscoll, Kathryn Beaumont, Hans Conried, Bill Thompson
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Musical, Animation
Overview:
Think of the happiest things as Peter Pan soars to spectacular new heights for the first time on Blu-ray—now more sensational than ever with digitally restored picture and brilliant high definition sound!
Bid your cares goodbye as Wendy and her brothers embark on fantastic adventures with the hero of their bedtime stories...Peter Pan! With faith, trust and Tinker Bell's pixie dust, Peter teaches them how to fly and leads them to the "second star to the right" and beyond...to Never Land!
My Thoughts:
This is still a fun little film, even if Peter's egocentrism doesn't come off as cool now like it does when you're a kid, and "What Makes the Red Man Red?" makes one cringe. The animation is top notch, and I've always liked the Crocodile. He's still my favorite, especially in his sly expressions and how happy he looks at the chance to eat Hook.
Still don't know why this is on blu-ray and we'll likely never see even a DVD release of Song of the South.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Pass
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 27, 2016, 05:38:22 AM
Lady and the Tramp
Year of Release: 1955
Directed By: Hamilton Luske, Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson
Starring: Peggy Lee, Barbara Luddy, Larry Roberts, Bill Thompson, Bill Baucom
Genre: Romance, Animation, Musical
Overview:
Fall in love with Disney's Beloved Classic, Lady And The Tramp—now unleashed in glorious high definition for the first time ever on Blu-ray! Experience like never before the thrilling adventures of Lady, a lovingly pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a freewheeling mutt with a heart of gold. This heartwarming tale now charms a new generation of families and fans with its exquisite animation, unforgettable songs, and immersive bonus that reveals the extraordinary making-of process behind one of the greatest love stories of all time.
This is the night to share a special bella notte with your family and introduce them to the film Janet Maslin of the New York Times News Service hails as "one of Disney's most enduring classics" — now more beautiful than ever through the magic of Blu-ray high definition!
My Thoughts:
This has long been one of my favorite Disney films. It's warm, romantic and engaging. I like all of the heroic characters, and the shot of Trusty under the wagon wheel has to be one of the most poignant in a Disney animated feature. If there are only two memorable songs here, that's hardly too much a fault in such a short film.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 27, 2016, 05:41:48 AM
Movies- 44
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 41 (40 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 27, 2016, 03:47:15 PM
(http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTM2MDE0MjY5N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNzEzMzU1MQ@@._V1_UY268_CR43,0,182,268_AL_.jpg)
Road to Bali
Two men travel to Bali to save the woman they have both fallen in love with from cannibals and other jungle dangers.
My Thoughts:
I found this one to be entertaining... a fun film. But it could have been better. I found that some of the characters I just really didn't care about. But it did have a few scenes that got me laughing.
My Rating:
I found this one to be entertaining... a fun film. But it could have been better. I found that some of the characters I just really didn't care about. But it did have a few scenes that got me laughing.
My Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 27, 2016, 05:23:08 PM
Pagan Love Song
Year of Release: 1950
Directed By: Robert Alton
Starring: Esther Williams, Howard Keel, Minna Gombell, Charles Mauu, Rita Moreno
Genre: Romance, Musical
Overview:
Island girl Esther plans to leave Tahiti, but maybe she'll have a reason to stay when Howard Keel arrives. Gorgeous, frothy fun with pristine Hawaiian locations filling in for Tahiti.
My Thoughts:
This is a pretty average Esther Williams vehicle. The singing - which is almost all on the part of Howard Keel - isn't bad, and the chorus of "The House of Singing Bamboo" is actually kinda catchy. The plot is very standard - boy meets girl, boy makes assumptions about girl, girl makes fool of boy, boy and girl fall in love. The highlight is the water ballet dream sequence, which is trippy but delightful.
If the plot and characters are nothing special, the painful part of the film is the condensation with which the native characters are treated. Yes, I know this is from 1950, and I do try to make allowances for that, but it's still painful to watch in this day and age.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 27, 2016, 05:23:42 PM
Movies- 45
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 42 (41 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 28, 2016, 01:35:11 PM
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Year of Release: 1968
Directed By: Ken Hughes
Starring: Dick Van Dyke, Lionel Jeffries, Sally Ann Howes, Heather Ripley, Adrian Hall
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Musical
Overview:
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls - start your engines. You're about to take an incredible role with one of the most wonderful family films of all time! With its clever tunes (including the OSCAR-Nominated title song), marvelous cast and enchanting storylien, this delightful romp is lots of fun and simply "toot sweet" to pass up! Dick Van Dyke stars as eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, who creates an extraordinary car called Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It not only drives - but also flies and floats - as it leads him, his two children and his beautiful lady friend, Truly Scrumptious (Sally Ann Howes), into a magical world of pirates, castles and endless adventure.
My Thoughts:
There's a lot to like here. The inventions are silly, the production values are excellent, and Dick Van Dyke is a very talented performer. This is his show, however, and is a showcase for his talent, so if you aren't a fan this isn't a film for you.
It's runtime is quite bloated, and the movie very much feels like it's two films shoehorned together. It would have been a lot better, IMO, if the filmmakers had decided on one of the two plots and developed that, and edited about thirty minutes out of the film. There are several songs that could have easily been trimmed for time and lost nothing to the film.
That aside, I did enjoy the film and would recommend it if you like Dick Van Dyke and don't mind a long movie.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 28, 2016, 04:33:13 PM
Up in the Air
Year of Release: 1940
Directed By: Howard Bretherton
Starring: Frankie Darro, Marjorie Reynolds, Mantan Moreland
Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Musical
Overview:
This musical mystery takes place at a radio station where an unpopular singer and other performers are murdered at the station. A page boy, and his friend, the janitor, begin investigating the deaths with hopes to find the killer and also to get a chance to perform on the air.
My Thoughts:
This isn't a terrible B-movie. Sure the budget is low, and the 'mystery' isn't really a mystery - it would need more clues and foreshadowing for that. The murder story is really just a set up for Darro and Moreland. Moreland steals every scene he's in, and his character isn't so much stereotype as others. He basically plays the same sort of character Lou Costello plays in the Abbot/Costello pictures. He also has a little dance sequence that's fun to watch. Darro has a blackface bit that's kinda cringeworthy, but it's nice to see a white/black buddy comedy of this age.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 2.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 28, 2016, 04:33:56 PM
Movies- 45
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 44 (43 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 28, 2016, 10:56:37 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883904225874f.jpg) | Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968/United Kingdom)
|
Stars:
Dick Van Dyke as Caractacus Potts
Sally Ann Howes as Truly Scrumptious
Lionel Jeffries as Grandpa Potts
Gert Fröbe [Gert Frobe] as Baron Bomburst
Anna Quayle as Baroness Bomburst
Plot:
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls – start your engines. You're about to take an incredible ride with one of the most wonderful family films of all time! With its clever tunes (including the OSCAR®-Nominated* title song), marvelous cast and enchanting storyline, this delightful romp is lots of fun and simply "toot sweet" to pass up! Dick Van Dyke stars as eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, who creates an extraordinary car called Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It not only drives – but also flies and floats – as it leads him, his two children and his beautiful lady friend, Truly Scrumptious (Sally Ann Howes), into a magical world of pirates, castles and endless adventure.
*1968, Original Song
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Gallery
- Interactive Games
- Interviews
- Sing-a-long version of the film.
My Thoughts:
This film was a lot of fun... I did enjoy it and would like to add it to my collection before too long. But I must say it was much longer then it needed to be. I think it would have made a better story if it was edited down about half an hour.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 28, 2016, 11:00:55 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543014089f.jpg) | There's No Business Like Show Business: The Diamond Collection (1954/) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0047574/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/There's_No_Business_Like_Show_Business_(film)) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1KQAHPsAdY) |
|
Stars:
Ethel Merman as Molly Donahue
Donald O'Connor as Tim Donahue
Marilyn Monroe as Vicky Hoffman/Vicky Parker
Dan Dailey as Terence Donahue
Johnnie Ray as Steve Donahue
Plot:
Marilyn Monroe and an all-star cast are featured in Irving Berlin's tuneful depiction of the trials and triumphs of a veteran vaudeville family. The talented Donahue family has plenty of love to get them through the hard times - that is, until they cross paths with a rising starlet (Monroe) whose own ambitions may make or break them. Co-starring Ethel Merman and Donald O'Connor, this delightful classic delivers dazzling production numbers and masterful show tunes!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This one... while entertining I didn't get into it as much as I would have hoped.I actually found myself drifting into sleep multiple times during the film. But to be fair... I did only get 4 hours sleep the night before. But I liked the story line and I liked the characters.... so I would recommend it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 02:39:09 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616860385f.jpg) | Some Like It Hot: 50th Anniversary Edition (1959/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0053291/) |Wikipedia (http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Some_Like_It_Hot) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rI_lUHOCcbc) |
|
Stars:
Marilyn Monroe as Sugar Kane (Kowalczyk)
Tony Curtis as Joe/Josephine/Junior Shell
Jack Lemmon as Jerry/Daphne
George Raft as Spats Colombo
Pat O'Brien as Mulligan
Plot:
When Chicago musicians Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon) accidentally witness a gangland shooting, they quickly board a southbound train to Florida, disguised as Josephine and Daphne, the two newest — and homeliest — members of an all-girl jazz band. Their cover is perfect...until a lovelorn singer (Marilyn Monroe) falls for "Josephine," an ancient playboy (Joe E. Brown) falls for "Daphne," and a mob boss (George Raft) refuses to fall for their hoax!
Nominated for 7 Academy Awards®,* Some Like It Hot is the quintessential madcap farce and "one of the greatest of all film comedies" (The Motion Picture Guide).
*1959: Director, Actor (Lemmon), Screenplay (based on material from another medium), Cinematography (B&W), Art Direction – Set Direction (B&W), Costume Design (B&W) [winner]
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Bonus Trailers
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This one I enjoyed quite a bit. I found it to be a really fun comedy. There is definitely some good laughs in this one. But more then a great comedy... it is an all around great movie. I would recommend it t anyone. So if you haven't done so yet... check this one out!
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 02:45:02 AM
Movies- 48
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 45 (43 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 03:18:08 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391108108f.jpg) | The Phantom of the Opera (2004/United Kingdom)
|
Stars:
Gerard Butler as The Phantom
Emmy Rossum as Christine
Patrick Wilson (1973) as Raoul
Miranda Richardson as Mme. Giry
Simon Callow as Andre
Plot:
The stage musical sensation magically and hauntingly comes to the screen in director Joel Schumacher's lavish production, sweeping audiences aloft to new cinematic heights of sight-and-sound grandeur. Gerard Butler (the Phantom), Emmy Rossum (winner of the National Board of Review Breakthrough Performance and Critics Choice Best Young Actress Awards as Christine) and Patrick Wilson (as Raoul) play the fateful love triangle that unfurls in splendor, suspense – and in the music of the night.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Deleted Scenes
- Featurettes
- Sing-a-long
My Thoughts:
While it was recommended to me by more then one person...this is just not one I could make it all the way through. Though I did give it a fair chance to I am including it (with Gen's agreement). I just found that one... I am just cannot stand this type of music. And two... I need at least some dialog that is not sung. It's just a must for me. This is one I will definitely NOT be adding to my collection.
Rating:
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 29, 2016, 04:21:03 AM
There's No Business Like Show Business
Year of Release: 1954
Directed By: Walter Lang
Starring: Ethel Merman, Donald O'Connor, Marilyn Monroe, Dan Dailey, Johnnie Ray, Mitzi Gaynor
Genre: Comedy, Romance, Musical
Overview:
Marilyn plays an ambitious showgirl who gets involved in the lives and loves of the Five Donahues, a family of Vaudeville performers.
My Thoughts:
While this is remembered today as a Marilyn Monroe film, she's in the supporting cast here. This is Ethel Merman's film and she is great in her role. Sure the plot is standard and pretty predictable, but the numbers are a lot of fun and everyone gives a good performance. Yes, Monroe does stand out of the supporting cast, and for the reasons she usually does - her beauty and charisma are evident the moment you see her. "Tropical Heat Wave" is her standout number here, and if you're a fan of hers you won't want to miss it. The film itself might have stood for a bit of editing, but overall it was a lot of fun and I'd recommend it if you enjoy musicals.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 29, 2016, 04:24:35 AM
Begin Again
Year of Release: 2013
Directed By: John Carney
Starring: Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, Hailee Steinfeld, Adam Levine
Genre: Drama, Musical
Overview:
Gretta (Keira Knightley) and her long-time boyfriend (Adam Levine) are college sweethearts and songwriting partners who go to New York City when Dave lands a deal with a major record label. But the excitement of Dave's new-found fame affects the couple in unexpected ways, leaving Gretta unsure of her future—until Dan (Mark Ruffalo), a record label executive with a few problems of his own, stumbles across her performance on an East Village stage. Dan is immediately captivated by Gretta's new talent and unique sound, leading to a life-changing collaboration, set to the soundtrack of a summer in New York City. Begin Again, from writer-director John Carney (Once), is a soul-stirring story about what happens when lost souls meet and make beautful music together.
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this film. I picked this up because it has Mark Ruffalo in it, and I enjoy his work. He's done a fine job in everything I've seen him in, and he doesn't disappoint me here. The other reason I picked this up is because it was from the director of Once, which was great. I enjoyed the friendship Greta and Dan developed, and the true love of music they expressed together, the authenticity of their characters. Maybe most of all I enjoyed the unexpected directions the film took and the unconventional choices. This is a feel-good film, recommended if you're looking for a mature tale of pulling oneself out of the dumps and finding friendships along the way.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 29, 2016, 04:24:59 AM
Movies- 48
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 45
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 04:26:53 AM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936150605f.jpg) | Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: Platinum Edition (1937/United States) Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snow_White_and_the_Seven_Dwarfs_(1937_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0029583/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGwnWb2gsv8) |
|
Stars:
Roy Atwell as Doc (Uncredited, Voice)
Stuart Buchanan as Humbert (Uncredited, Voice)
Adriana Caselotti as Snow White (Uncredited, Voice)
Eddie Collins (1883) as Dopey (Uncredited, Voice)
Pinto Colvig as Sleepy/Grumpy (Uncredited, Voice)
Plot:
The curtain rises on Disney's most ambitious, most immersive DVD experience ever! At center stage is Walt Disney's revered animated masterpiece – digitally restored for picture and sound that goes beyond its original brilliance. Then, let the Magic Mirror be your personal guide as you "walk" through a virtual gallery of the Queen's castle. "Race" through the tunnels of the dwarf's mine to save Snow White. Treat yourself to Barbra Streisand's rendition of "Some Day My Prince Will Come." Explore five enchanted lands of Snow White's kingdom and discover an interactive timeline featuring eight celebrity hosts, Walt Disney's personal commentary, deleted scenes, abandoned concepts and more. Or, if you prefer, sit back, relax and take a VIP guided tour of this first-of-its-kind Disney DVD for every generation!
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Featurettes
My Thoughts:
I found this to be a cute film. But it is not one I can see myself watching often. But it is classic animation that should be seen by everyone.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 04:53:44 AM
Movies- 50
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 45
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 29, 2016, 02:48:23 PM
Cinderella
Year of Release: 1950
Directed By: Wilfred Jackson, Hamilton Luske, Clyde Geronimi
Starring: Ilene Woods, Eleanor Audley, Verna Felton, Claire DuBrey
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Musical
Overview:
Rediscover the timeless story, the memorable music and unforgettable characters - now more enchanting than ever with pristine digital picture and dazzling high definition sound! Cinderella has faith her dreams will come true. With help from her loyal mice friends and a wave of her Fairy Godmother's wand, Cinderella's rags are magically transformed into a glorious gown and off she goes to the Royal Ball. But when the clock strikes midnight, the spell is broken, leaving only a single glass slipper...the only key to the ultimate fairy-tale ending!
My Thoughts:
Sure it's a classic tale, but as an adult the only thing I can think is "man Cinderella is so stupid." The mice are cute, the songs are good, and the animation is excellent classic Disney. The main character is just such an idiot, and why she's been held up all these years as a model for young girls is beyond me.
Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 29, 2016, 02:48:49 PM
Movies- 50
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 46
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 05:10:13 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I9/I95E62B91214F82FBf.jpg) | Gentlemen Prefer Blondes: The Diamond Collection (1953/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045810/) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-IZ4AatNa8) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentlemen_Prefer_Blondes_(film)) |
|
Stars:
Jane Russell as Dorothy Shaw
Marilyn Monroe as Lorelei Lee
Charles Coburn as Sir Francis Beekman
Elliott Reid as Detective Malone
Tommy Noonan as Gus Esmond
Plot:
Gentlemen may prefer blondes, but this blonde bombshell prefers diamonds, and lots of them! Glamorous showgirl Marilyn sets sail for France, intent on marrying a rich, yet boring, beau. But anything can – and does – happen with the beautiful and fun-loving Jane Russell acting as chaperone. From celebrated director Howard Hawks, this musical comedy classic features Marilyn's signature rendition of the hit show tune "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend."
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Feature Trailers
- Gallery
- Closed Captioned
- Movietone Newsreel
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this one. It has a fun story and likable characters. But I have seen better from Marilyn Monroe. I did feel her stupid but smart act was a little heavy. Though it probably needed to be for the story they were telling. I would say it is worth the time put in to watch it.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2016, 10:02:59 PM
Pete:
Movies- 52 (51 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 46
Episodes - 12
Post by: Danae Cassandra on July 30, 2016, 07:42:17 AM
Movies- 52 (51 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 49 (46 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 30, 2016, 04:24:34 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883904245230f.jpg) | West Side Story: 50th Anniversary Edition (1961/United States) Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Side_Story_(film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0055614/) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW4ZerUzEk8) |
|
Stars:
Natalie Wood (1938) as Maria
Richard Beymer as Tony
Russ Tamblyn as Riff
Rita Moreno as Anita
George Chakiris as Bernardo
Plot:
The greatest love story ever told...in the most acclaimed musical of all time...is now on Blu-ray! Experience every sensational song, dazzling dance number and magical movie moment of West Side Story in sparkling high definition with pure 7.1 digital sound — along with fascinating special features created exclusively for this 50th Anniversary Edition!
Winner of ten Acadamy Awards®, including Best Picture,* this electrifying musical sets the ageless tragedy of Romeo and Juliet against a backdrop of gang warfare in 1950s New York. Featuring an unforgettable score, exuberant choreography and powerful performances by Natalie Wood, Russ Tamblyn, Richard Beymer and Rita Moreno. West Side Story will forever resonate as a true cinematic masterpiece.
*1961: Best Picture, Supporting Actor (George Chakiris), Supporting Actress (Rita Moreno), Art Direction (Color), Cinemetography (Color), Costume Design (Color), Directing, Film Editing, Music Score, Sound.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- Featurettes
- Storyboard Comparisons
My Thoughts:
This one I have mixed feelings about. In the one hand I liked the story a lot. But in the other I just didn't like the style of the music and dancing which took away from the enjoyment for me.
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 30, 2016, 04:37:27 PM
| (http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/794043609923f.jpg) | Hairspray (1988/United States) IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095270/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hairspray_(1988_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdKTHL0PMGw) |
|
Stars:
Sonny Bono as Franklin Von Tussle
Ruth Brown as Motormouth Maybelle
Divine as Arvin Hodgepile / Edna Turnblad
Colleen Fitzpatrick as Amber Von Tussle
Deborah Harry [Debbie Harry] as Velma Von Tussle
Plot:
With huge hair, a big grin, and all the right moves, Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake) becomes the queen of Baltimore's number one TV dance party. Also starring Divine (Pink Flamingos) and rock legends Sonny Bono and Debbie Harry.
Extras:
- Scene Access
- Audio Commentary
- Feature Trailers
- DVD-ROM Content
- Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Wow! I just don't know how I made it through this entire movie! I didn't care for any of the cast. The acting was terrible. I didn't even like Jerry Stiller...who I normally enjoy. I recommend skipping this one. I am surprised this got an above average rating on IMDB!
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 30, 2016, 04:44:31 PM
Movies- 53
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 49 (46 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 30, 2016, 07:53:49 PM
Movies- 55 (53 Reviewed)
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 49 (46 reviewed)
Episodes - 12
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 31, 2016, 04:57:37 PM
I am writing mini-reviews for the rest... I just think it would be easier as this is the final day and I have to be to work before too long.
Movie #54
Cinderella
A nice story... and done well. Though not the type I would watch very often. So not sure if I would actually add it to my collection. But it is worth the time put in to watch it.
Movie #55
Lady and the Champ
This one I enjoyed quite a bit and wouldn't mind adding to my collection if I found it cheap enough. A nice story...well made and entertaining through-out. Recommended.
Movie #56
Robin Hood: Men in Tights
Yes.. this one is cheese and very silly at times but I guess I can consider this one a guilty pleasure as I really did enjoy every minute of it. I found myself literally laughing out loud on more then one occasion. I definitely found it worth the time put in to watch it. Recommended.
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 31, 2016, 07:37:24 PM
The Aristocats
Found this to be a fun film...enjoyed it quite a bit. I wouldn't mind adding it to my collection before too long. Recommended.
Movie #58
Robin Hood
This is one I have not seen since I was a little kid. And I am so glad I decided to watch it again. I forgot how much I enjoyed it as a kid and it holds up quite well. I will definitely be adding this one to my collection at some point.
Movie # 59
Beware
An average film with a decent story. I just wish the dvd was in a better quality. There was problems with both the audio and video.
Well that's it. I so wanted to make it to #60 but there just wasn't enough time before work. But hey... I think I did pretty damn good. Especially considering the genre we are talking about. My number would never of gotten even nearly this high if it wasn't turned into a competition and I wasn't so stubborn.
The only problem... Danae Cassandra is just as stubborn and I am going to work knowing that she can still win.
To be honest... with this being my least favorite genre I am so hoping I do win. That would really feel like an accomplishment. And it does bug me a little that I have to work all night so I can do no more to fight for it at this point so only time will tell now.
Post by: Danae Cassandra on August 01, 2016, 02:26:27 AM
Jimi Plays Monterey / Shake! Otis at Monterey
Year of Release: 1986
Directed By: D. A. Pennebaker, Chris Hegedus, David Dawkins
Starring: Jimi Hendrix, Otis Redding
Genre: Music
Overview:
Jimi Hendrix and Otis Redding arrived in California virtually unknown. Returning stateside from London, where he had moved to launch his musical career, Hendrix exploded at Monterey, flooring an unsuspecting audience with his maniacal six-string pyrotechnics. Redding, venerable star of Memphis' Stax record label, seduced the "love crowd" in one of his best - and last - performances. Jimi Plays Monterey and Shake! Otis at Monterey feature the entire Monterey sets of these legendary musicians, performances that have entered rock-and-roll mythology.
My Thoughts:
Jimi: Wonderful hour long show from Jimi Hendrix. He changed the way music sounded, and nobody has ever played like Hendrix. It's easy to see why this performance catapulted him forward into the spotlight. He was fabulous. Highly recommended.
Otis: Great set of pieces from Otis Redding at Monterey. He had such energy and chemistry that it flows through the screen. Short but fine watch if you like him and his music.
Bechdel Test: N/A
Mako Mori Test: N/A
Overall: 4/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on August 01, 2016, 02:30:05 AM
Monterey Pop
Year of Release: 1968
Directed By: D. A. Pennebaker
Starring: The Mamas and the Papas, Canned Heat, Simon and Garfunkle, Hugh Masekela, The Animals, Big Brother and the Holding Company, Jefferson Airplane, The Who, Country Joe and the Fish, Otis Redding, Jimi Hendrix, Ravi Shankar,
Genre: Music
Overview:
On a beautiful June weekend in 1967, at the height of the Summer of Love, the first and only Monterey International Pop Festival roared forward, capturing a decade's spirit and ushering in a new era of rock and roll. Monterey would launch the careers of Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Otis Redding, but they were just a few among a wildly diverse cast that included Simon and Garfunkel, the Mamas and the Papas, the Who, the Byrds, Hugh Masekala, and the extraordinary Ravi Shankar. With his characteristic verite style, D.A. Pennebaker captured it all, immortalizng moments that have become legend: Pete Townshend destroying his guitar, Hendrix burning his. The Criterion Collection is proud to present this timeless document of a landmark event.
My Thoughts:
Interesting documentation of the Monterey Pop Festival but it feels incomplete. As a concert film, the music is excellent but it cuts between acts. I'm pretty sure it's to create a portrait of the entire festival, as if the viewer is travelling from one act to the next, but it means you never get a full set from anyone. There are also moments during Otis Redding's song that the camera is facing directly into the light and the screen becomes a blinding white square. Really annoying. As a documentary it includes little information about the Festival and it's place in the Summer of Love. So there's a lack of context for the less informed viewer.
But for those of us who would never have been able to go, the film offers a trip to the Festival, a capsule of a time and place in history. It is wonderful to have it, even if it leaves you wanting more.
Bechdel Test: N/A
Mako Mori Test: N/A
Overall: 3.5/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on August 01, 2016, 02:35:07 AM
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Year of Release: 1937
Directed By: David Hand
Starring: Roy Atwell, Stuart Buchanan, Adriana Caselotti, Lucille La Verne, Pinto Colvig
Genre: Fantasy, Musical, Animation
Overview:
No film in history has captured the world's imagination like Walt Disney's first full-length animated masterpiece. Through astonishing Blu-ray™ high definition technology, experience this timeless classic in its most spectacular presentation ever! With an all-new, state-of-the-art digital restoration and Disney Enhanced High Definition sound, the breathtaking animation and unforgettable music of the most revered Disney film of all time will enthrall you like never before!
Join the beautiful princess Snow White as she escapes her jealous stepmother, the queen, and befriends a lovable group of dwarfs. But when she falls under the queen's wicked spell, only true love's kiss can save her.
My Thoughts:
Except in music, Snow White has it all over Cinderella. Snow White is naive, but she actively tries to help herself and improve her life. Yes, she makes terrible decisions but at least she tries something. The only thing Cinderella has is much better songs.
Of course, this is also a groundbreaking film and classic piece of animation, so recommended for everyone for at least one viewing.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on August 01, 2016, 02:38:21 AM
101 Dalmatians
Year of Release: 1961
Directed By: Wolfgang Reitherman, Hamilton S. Luske, Clyde Geronimi
Starring: Rod Taylor, J. Pat O'Malley, Betty Lou Gerson, Martha Wentworth, Ben Wright, Cate Bauer
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Animation
Overview:
Pick your favorite spot to watch—anytime and anywhere—and get ready for a fun-filled adventure with 101 Dalmatians for the first time ever on Blu-ray and Digital HD!
Pongo, Perdita and their super-adorable puppies are in for thrills, hilarious spills and an epic action-packed adventure when they face off with Cruella De Vil, Disney's most fabulously outrageous villainess. Unleash all the excitement and suspense of Disney's 101 Dalmatians, a beloved classic you'll want to share with your family again and again!'
My Thoughts:
A lot of people don't seem to like the choice to use xerography in this film, but I like the scratchy look to the art. It gives Dalmatians a more unique look compared to earlier Disney films. No complaints about story either - this is a fun film that moves along quickly and easily. Recommended for just about anyone, but be prepared to say "no" when your kids beg for a dalmatian puppy. They're a high maintenance dog that requires an experienced hand.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on August 01, 2016, 02:41:53 AM
Robin Hood
Year of Release: 1973
Directed By: Wolfgang Reitherman
Starring: Roger Miller, Peter Ustinov, Terry-Thomas, Brian Bedford, Monica Evans, Phil Harris
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Animation, Musical
Overview:
To commemorate its 40th anniversary, Disney proudly presents the unforgettable animated classic Robin Hood on Blu-ray for the first time ever. Experience all the fun, thrills and celebrated music of this legendary adventure with perfect picture and sound!
Join Robin Hood, his trusted companion Little John and his hilarious band of Merry Men as they outfox greedy Prince John to save the good people of Nottingham. Dashing from one daring deed to the next, Robin won't rest until he wins the hand of Maid Marian and restores King Richard to the throne. One of Disney's most beloved movies is even better on Blu-ray Combo Pack!
My Thoughts:
You know, it's been so many years since I've seen this film that it was a lot better than I remembered. I remembered it being rather silly, and there is a frivolity about it, but it isn't as childish as I had remembered. I surprised by how much fun this was to watch. Also, Klucky is fabulous. Recommended if you enjoy the story of Robin Hood or Disney films of this era.
Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail
Overall: 3/5
Post by: Danae Cassandra on August 01, 2016, 02:42:38 AM
Movies- 59
Episodes - 4
Danae Cassandra:
Movies - 51
Episodes - 12