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- Review count45
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- First reviewNovember 10, 2018
- Last reviewMay 29, 2023
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- Average rating4.2
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![Max Fleischer's Superman [Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/557ea16b-8e83-44e1-b213-d43029084fa2.jpg)
Customer Rating
4
Not a Super blu ray, but an overall solid disc
on May 29, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
There is a lot of negativity going on with this particular release, and there is some validity to some of the points that are being raised but there's also a lot of misinformation that's circulating with this release, so I wanted to perhaps give a more balanced view for this release.
First, Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) is present in many, many releases and it's present on this one. The issue is finding a balance between the benefits of DNR and over applying it to the point the software algorithms impacts the picture quality negatively. If a comparison is done between prior releases and this blu-ray release, it does show cell dirt, film tears and other blemishes from prior releases are gone. It also shows that fine animation lines have NOT been removed. There have been online arguments that cel dirt (mistaken to be "stars") was detail being removed. It isn't.
Color timing - the colors are richer now, but the overall brightness and contrast seem to be less than in the earlier standard definition releases. This does create a duller, murkier image where the colors aren't popping like they should. That's probably the second biggest faux pau that this release is responsible for. It isn't in every moment of every short film, and some scenes look fantastic, but the lovely painted 1940s look of the animation is there...it's just a bit dull
Film Grain removal...yes, this release has been restored and changed to look more modern for its blu ray release and film grain is all but nonexistant. It's there if you look in some scenes, but that is one of the biggest "rage points" that are circulating online. Film grain is a visual aesthetic that makes something look more like projected film, which is appreciated for classic older releases. Not everyone appreciates it though so this isn't a MISTAKE per se, it's a restoration choice. Some may agree...some may not...
Audio errors...yea, audio errors have existed for years on multiple versions of these short films (vhs, dvd) and they have not been corrected here. Why not? Who knows? Maybe the original elements aren't available...maybe they are and the restoration team didn't know/care about it. Does it matter? Well...unless you know what you're listening for...nope. Not a bit. I know. Sacrilegious, but these films are over 80 years old so it's a fair bet that the vast majority of those who are going to view them did NOT view them in a theater...so the argument that they don't look like they did upon release is a flimsy one at best. They don't look or sound necessarily like they have on prior releases, and just because primacy is in effect (I saw that way first, therefore that way is correct) doesn't mean the blu ray is not more accurate a presentation than the prior home video releases.
At the end of the day, these films are a part of comic book history, critical to the development of the character (Superman didn't fly originally in the comic books, he lept 1/8 of a mile...and you can see that is what he does here a lot of the time but the filmmakers cheated a bit due to the transition from a static to dynamic presentation medium and made him fly when needed and jump other times...flying caught on...) and they remain entertaining, if dated in some of their presentations, storytelling tactics and stereotypes. There is no doubt this IS the best these films have ever looked on any home video medium, but the differences in presentation just mean there are choices.
The disc itself plays well, has all 17 short films and 3 documentaries (2 brought over from the prior DVD release and 1 new one) which are enjoyable if light.
Overall, this is a solid presentation. Is it the gold standard of classic animation that perhaps it deserved...? No, but it is a fine presentation and something anyone who loves superheroes, Superman or classic animation should consider purchasing.
Length of ownership: 18
Mobile Submission: False
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![National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - 4K Blu-Ray [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/8e1ca9fb-f3f1-447b-b5c4-899627438300.jpg)
It's a comedic carol of calamities as only the Griswold family can deliver as Clark (Chevy Chase) has his heart set on hosting an old-fashioned family Christmas. But he may change his mind when faced with a house full of bickering relatives, malfunctioning decorations, and uncertainty over his Christmas bonus. And what holiday celebration would be complete without the boorish Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid)? Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis, Johnny Galecki, Julia Louis-Dreyfus also star. 97 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack English. Two-disc set.
Customer Rating
3
Good Old Fashioned Griswold Family Christmas
on February 7, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
As far as christmas classics go at the movies, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation is near the top, whether you are a fan of the series or not.
The movie is good silly fun and one of the things that makes it so much fun is that Chevy Chase dials down his own performance to embody the role of the family man trying to engineer a perfect holiday for his family. Unfortunately, the family makes it very difficult to do that...and if THEY'RE not the ones getting in the way, the neighbors, work, and murphy's law all are.
There is a underlining current of reality among all the hijinks and shenanigans that the cast encounters, which is what makes it relatable AND incredibly funny.
Unfortunately, the 4k/Blu Ray package that WB released is not one that will sit on your shelf as an example of what the medium is capable of.
The 4k is an upgrade over the blu-ray but it does have some softness to it's visual appearance. The blu ray included in the package is the 25th anniversary disc, which was a remastered edition in and of itself. Both are serviceable and look most likely the best that either has ever looked.
Extras wise, there is very little to experience here. There is an audio commentary on both the 4k and Blu ray disc, and there is a trailer on the blu ray.
So...audio and video are decent and the best that this film has had. The complete lack of special features, though, really is a bit of an obstacle to recommending it as an across the board upgrade. If you don't have 4k OR the 25th Anniversary blu ray, go for it. If you do have the 25th anniversary blu ray and don't have 4k skip it. If you are all 4k all the time, than might as well pick it up!
Length of ownership: 60
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Nope (4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray) [UHD] [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/378ad4f5-82f4-41d9-be40-46d1d81526bf.jpg)
Nope (4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray) [UHD]
Customer Rating
5
Should you skip this movie? Nope!
on February 5, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Nope is one of those movies that is best experienced with as little information as possible. Before watching, I knew aliens were involved in the film, but I had also heard there was a twist that took it away from aliens...and that was about it.
This review will be about as spoiler free as possible, which is a shame because when I finished watching the film I was ready to watch it again...the themes and the various narratives are dense and it leaves you with a lot to think about.
This film is many things...and most of them are good to amazing. It is very ambitious and while it swings for the fences, it doesn't always connect in the way it wants to. That's ok...it's better that the film TRY to be new and innovative and "swing for the fences" rather than be dull and safe.
If I had to pick a single theme out of this it is "exploitation." All of the characters either are exploited or are attempting to exploit others. The title, I believe, represents that moment where you say a situation is too much and you either shut down (which happens in the film) or you go on the offensive (which also happens in the film). It turns certain long-standing paradigms on their head in an interesting and creative way.
There are themes of race and I've read that the entire antagonist (purposely staying vague...) is actually a metaphor for Hollywood who sucks in people with its notion of spectacle. Who knows...? That's part of what makes this film work is that while it operates on scares and spectacle on one level, it is also providing themes and metaphorical perspectives on a whole other level. 12 hours after watching it I'm still reflecting on it...things I thought didn't work immediately after watching it I have come to realize that perhaps they did and am now very excited to go back and re-watch and discover new clues, perspectives and ideas.
When was the last time a mainstream film did all that?
A word on those scares and spectacles...this is one of the best "spielbergian monster movies" that I have seen in a long time. The slow, slow build up (the first 40 minutes) leading to an unseen enemy with the audience witness more to the reactions of the cast to what they're experiencing. This is the sort of filmmaking that Steven Spielberg made famous in the 70s and 80s, and is often times duplicated but rarely so well imitated as what is accomplished in Nope.
The entire third act was just fantastic and exciting. There is a scene in a stable (you'll know it when you see it) about a third through the film that was quite frightening...and there was no blood, gore, or any of the other horror tropes. And the film was just getting started at that point...there was so much more to come...
That said, the film isn't perfect and, as indicated previously, misses on some things. It rushes through important plot points that I didn't realize where important or what they were communicating until I watched the making of special. Other scenes, while enriching the narrative, don't ADD to the narrative. You could take some scenes out and the movie wouldn't change a bit. I understand why the Gordy sequences were in the film, what they add to the film and the sheer horror they bring. But they don't really do much for the plot...they're backstory but they're given prominence over some really key things that got glossed over...
But art is subjective and that's part of the fun!
The disc itself looks great in both 4K and Blu Ray, and the audio is fantastic...the scoundscape (both effects and music) really plays an important role in this film - some of the results are incredible to listen to and really enhanced and enriched the film.
There are a better than average collection of special features included on the discs as well. There is nearly a one hour VERY comprehensive making of for the film...as I mentioned earlier, some of the more glossed over key points became clearer after I watched this. There's also a second documentary that lasts fifteen minutes about...stuff (staying vague, again - it really is to your benefit). There is a gag real (ehhh...those aren't as funny as they're made out to be usually) and a neat introspective about the very first moving picture ever, which plays a key part in the film.
Overall, this is an alien invasion movie that uses the themes of exploitation, spectacle and missed perspectives to subvert expectations. As it does that in a creative and effective manner, it employs some great filmmaking technique to build up a fun, engaging and scary experience that is more unique than most movies out there today. It doesn't quite achieve everything it sets out to do, but the fact it is as ambitious as it is, and that it turned out as well as it did, is commendble.
Present that film in a 4k/Blu ray package that has a slipcover (with shiny foil across the top), a substantial and comprehensive bundle of extras and a top-notice video and audio presentation...and you've got a winner.
Should you skip this movie? Nope!
Length of ownership: 58
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![A Christmas Story - 4K Blu-Ray [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/9319429b-85f0-43cc-8e66-6aa3be9e1f5c.jpg)
Based on short stories by and narrated by Jean Shepherd, this hilarious and enjoyable holiday yarn chronicles a young boy's attempts at getting what he really wants for Christmas a Red Ryder BB gun. In a Midwestern town in the 1940s, Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) finds appeals to his parents, a teacher, and Santa Claus for his most-desired gift are always met with the same response of Inchyou'll shoot your eye out.Inch Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillon also star; directed by Bob Clark. 98 min. Widescreen; Soundtracks English DTS HD mono Master Audio, French Dolby Digital mono, Spanish Dolby Digital mono; Subtitles English (SDH), French, Spanish; audio commentary; featurettes. Two-disc set.
Customer Rating
5
A Christmas Story in 4k: Ho! Ho! ho!
on February 2, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
If there was ever a movie that was "review proof," it is this one. A Christmas Story, while not an instant classic, has become a perennial holiday favorite thanks to its charm, its humor, its humanity and...the 24 hour marathons cable channel TNT used to base it on (yes, it ran for 24 hours a day on TNT on december 24 for many, many years...).
If you're old enough, you may remember seeing it in the theaters in 1983 as a double feature with the Rescuers (I did), and even then it felt like a special, honest look into the holiday season from the perspective of a young boy. The stress of school, childhood buillies and - of course - being good enough to actually get what you wanted from Santa all made for a desperate time all framed within the late forties Norman Rockwell charm (sorta) of midwest America.
So, if you're one of the few who have never seen it...why not? This would be the edition to pick up.
If you've seen it AND bought it on Blu Ray...why would you want to purchase this version?
Well, if you have a 4K system, there's that. If you DON'T have a 4k setup, well...the Blu Ray included here is a new one, not just imported from a prior release and the film looks great on either disc. So there's that.
If you're into special features, there's two KINDA new ones...that toal up to 90 minutes. The first one (focusing on the actual house and how it's been restored to look like the film) hasn't been seen since the now out of print 2013 blu ray. The other are Jean Shepard (creator) original radio readings which haven't been released since the 2 disc DVD. So there's that as well.
And there's a nice slipcover with...ugly christmas card art...so there's THAT.
But at the end of the day, this is truly a classic film and - as it hits 40 - there's very little reason not to pick this one up. Great video and audio restoration, great features and a great movie. Don't shoot your eye out on the way to the check out lane, but do pick up this classic!
Length of ownership: 54
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - 4K Blu-Ray [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/b63eb4c9-8e57-4687-9576-c31af3979f2e.jpg)
It's sure to be a holly, jolly Christmas for fans of Rankin/Bass' stop-motion animated classic, narrated by Burl Ives. Watch as young Rudolph, teased by the other reindeer, sets off with his pal Hermey the would-be dentist elf and encounters the Abominable Snowman before saving the day for Santa on Christmas Eve! The memorable soundtrack includes InchA Holly Jolly Christmas,Inch InchThere's Always Tomorrow,Inch InchSilver and Gold,Inch and more. 50 min. Standard; Soundtrack English. Two-disc set.
Customer Rating
5
Rudolph Shines Brightly on 4k/Blu Ray
on February 2, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Who thought that a fuzzy puppet from nearly 60 years ago could look so fantastic?
The 4k restoration of this classic holiday staple soars above all previous versions released on home video (and there have been a *lot* of them...). What's also great is that if you DON'T have a 4K setup, the included Blu Ray is not just a repackaged earlier edition...it's a brand new disc that uses the same restored master as the 4K disc.
There is a high level of detail and much better contrast, color saturation, and stability than previous editions and seeing the individual threads on the various character clothes and fur is just a marvel to behold. Even if this version of Rudolph LOOKs like puppets on a stage, the story is still charming, the songs are still catchy and you're still drawn into a presentation of embracing diversity and dealing with bullying that is shocking for how relevant, brave and direct it is...yes Santa gets off a bit too easy considering what a jerk he is earlier on but that's a minor nitpick. Rudolph was ostracized and bullied for being different. He turned into a leader and engaged others making them capable of living their best lives. What's not to marvel that this came out of a 3 minute christmas song?
Originally sponsored by Montgomery Wards to sell merchandise, Rudolph was ahead of its time with the themes that it incorporated into its narrative, all while remaining true to what was presented in the original song lyrics. If the phrase "it is better than it has any right to be" ever had a definite home, this is the film where that would be true. But it has stood the test of time and winter holidays are just not the same without it, regardless of what holidays you personally choose to celebrate and observe.
Rankin and Bass truly made a masterpiece and while modern audiences may scoff a bit at the jerky animation, the idea of toys (or some other magical environment) come to life is only enhanced by these visuals. Sure, it isn't anywhere near as slick as modern animated films but it doesn't need to be...it blazes its own trail and does it well. Similar to the 1933 King Kong, you can see rippling of fur across some of the characters (Bumbles most notably) and mistakes throughout. It honestly doesn't matter.
Audio is basically the same as it's always been. There was no need for an atmos track on this disc, and the audio is more than competent...if you haven't seen Rudolph since the days of DVD or broadcast, you'll notice a difference in clarity and crispness, but if you've been buying Rudolph previously on Blu Ray, there is less difference in that area to see here.
The special features are brought over from a 2018 disc, but if you haven't seen them...they are comprehensive...especially a 47 minute retrospective about not just Rudolph but the entire Rankin Bass studios. Great history and a fun watch as you learn the backstory (and impact) of all your future characters.
There apparently was a slipcover with its original release on Nov 1, 2022...but by the time it went on sale 3 weeks later no slips were to be found, so it's a rare one. Hold onto it if you get it!
Overall a wonderful classic film that is truly a masterpiece of incorporating strong themes into stop motion animation on a tv budget. Great visual restoration that stands head and shoulders above previous versions on home video (and both the 4K and Blu ray are new discs...always nice) and a nice comprehensive collection of extras that, while released previously, still provide great context for the main feature.
Highly Recommended!
Length of ownership: 54
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Source Code - 4K Blu-Ray [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/03f99dee-7cca-458f-9331-0bc8e4e63241.jpg)
Complex and futuristic tale stars Jake Gyllenhaal as a government agent working inside an experimental program that allows one's psyche to take over another person's body during the final eight minutes of their life. Assigned to identify the bomber of a train, he continues to wake up inside the body of the same passenger and must repeatedly experience the tragic incident until he can solve the mystery and save the woman (Michelle Monaghan) he's starting to fall for. Vera Farmiga and Jeffrey Wright co-star. 94 min. Widescreen; Soundtracks English Dolby Atmos, French, Spanish; Subtitles English (SDH), French, Spanish.
Customer Rating
5
Source Code shines in 4K
on February 2, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Source code is a movie that works less well on repeat viewings than on its initial viewing, due to a large twist in the third act, but "less well" for a fantastic movie is still better than what many mainstream films achieve.
Source Code builds its narrative house of cards slowly, but confidently, and the audience comes along for the ride as it gives you enough to reveal its hand but doesn't lead you there...not directly.
The story borrows heavily from other "repeat the day" films, one of the most famous being Groundhog day, but the tone here is totally different. And the ending...well...that pushes the film into a different territory. Although it doesn't seem to be vague, the ending very much is so leaving the audience to determine what exactly it just witnessed and what it all means.
The movie works...probably better than it should...and in no short part due to their talent with embodying their roles.
The 4K disc mostly has a good visual upscale, with grain being present in many scenes making the film look more "film like." Audio also comes alive for the various sfx heavy scenes that involve an explosion. The dolby atmos track really utilizes its sonic placement capabilities well and the underlying music really shines in this track. The 4K disc also has a brand new extra feature not on the Blu Ray, which - while short - is still pretty fun "5 crazy things you may have missed." It only runs 2 minutes, but it gives you some different perspectives on how scenes played out.
The blu ray disc is the same one that was released back in 2011 so if you don't have a 4k system yet and you have that blu ray, no need to update unless you want to future proof your collection. The 4K is a notable upgrade, especialy with the audio.
Length of ownership: 54
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Casablanca (4K Ultra HD) [UHD] [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/f9af0c00-e27a-4ca0-99ef-9acc4cec5e48.jpg)
Customer Rating
5
Here's Looking at a GREAT 4K Casablanca set
on February 1, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Casablanca is one of the great movies from the golden age of hollywood but it IS in black and white and it has next to no action, so you do have to think about that a bit if you're going to sit down and watch it.
If you decide to, this is a fantastic 4k/Blu Ray presentation. The Blu Ray has been sold before, as it's the exact same disc 1 (of 2) that was sold in the 80th anniversary set. Same extras, transfer, everything.
The 4K disc is where this 90th set REALLY shines. Film grain makes the movie feel like it was shot on movie but the detail, clarity and range of images between the light and the dark truly are outstanding and must be seen to be believed.
Casablanca's cinematography has become rightly famous for its use of light and shadow and that has never been presented better than what is shown here. It really IS that good...
Nice selection of extras, including a robust making of that will provide you much insight into the making of this film and how it wasn't expected to ever be a hit, let alone the cultural showcase it has become throughout its years.
The package comes in a snap amray black case with a slipcover. There are two hubs for discs, one on each side.
If you haven't purchased (or seen) casablanca before, this is a good set to have with a fantastic 4K and great Blu ray presentation. If you have the 80th anniversary set (which also came with an amazing WB documentary that goes for over 4 hours tracing the history of the studio), then be sure to have a 4K setup because that's the only thing in this set you don't already own.
But outside of that consideration, this is a 4K/Blu Ray that deserves a spot in just about every movie aficionado's home video library.
Length of ownership: 36
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Five-disc set includes InchDie Hard,Inch InchDie Hard II Die Harder,Inch InchDie Hard with a Vengeance,Inch and the PG-13-rated and unrated versions of InchLive Free or Die HardInch and InchA Good Day to Die Hard.Inch
Customer Rating
3
5 attempts to Die Hard on Blu Ray!
on February 1, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Die Hard has been with us since 1988...that's 35 years for anyone who is counting. Where were YOU in 1988?
Well, I was in a theater getting blown away by a brand new type of action film...an american quippy james bond with in your face action, lots of gore and bad language (the drinking game for the "f" word was pretty much born with this movie...).
It's hard to really appreciate the impact that Die Hard has had on action movies because it has served as the seminal template ever since...if you haven't seen the first one and watch it now, you may think it's quaint, safe and derivative of more frenetic action movies. Yet those latter style movies came to be BECAUSE of this franchise, and mostly the first one.
Die Hard 1 isn't perfect, and the disc transfer is less than perfect but it is much better than what you get on DVD. The sound is mostly front centered and some of the picture is soft and dark, but that's also the movie. The movie stands on its own and is engaging for its characters, its action and its pacing.
Die Hard 2: Die Harder is not a smart movie...but it makes up for a lack of intelligence with bigger, bolder action. It's a fun film and it entertains. Even Bruce Willis asks "how can the same @%#@# happen to the same guy twice?" We, as the audience are thinking the same thing - of course - but since the film is winking at us about it we get in on the joke and accept it. Unfun fact: there was a decent public outcry about a scene at the end of the first act where (spoiler) the terrorists use the ILS (instrument landing system) at IAD (Dulles airport) to crash a plane. The way these systems are used do not reflect their capabilities in the real world, but the real issue that hit immediately after the movie was released was the *body* count. Think back to a time when a single crashed airplane in a movie caused a public outcry because it was showing too many people dying. Certainly a sad commentary on the trajectory of what we accept in 30 years later...but that's neither here nor there as far as the blu ray goes. DH2 has the same transfer quality as the first one...mostly clear audio, mostly clear video.
Die Hard with a Vengeance. By this point an urban legend was developing that Die Hard scripts always started as some other movie and then got adapted...word is that THIS one started life as Simon Says. It's a fun ride and Samuel Jackson has great chemistry with Bruce Willis. The film's attempt to be complex and criss-cross audience expectations, along with some last minute editing as a result of (perhaps) poor testing, make the film sag MORE than a little bit in its middle act where things stop making sense...but it is more of an amusement park ride than a flim...take it for what it is...an above average video transfer but...what an anemic soundtrack. What happened here? There's good movement of sound cues, and dialogue mostly remains clear (except in the loudest explosion scenes where people are screaming) but the LFE is weak...shame. And...can YOU figure out how to get 4 exact gallons with only a 5 gallon and a 3 gallon jug? Yea...it DOES work :)
Live Free or Die Hard...it's been a while since we checked in on John McClaine and time has not been kind. This was an attempt to make a modern, internet-relevant Die hard and it works about 75-80% of the time. The problem here is that Die Hard gets eclipsed very quickly by Fox's 24 show (which was a much better executed modernization of Die Hard). But that still makes this enjoyable, even if 24 does it better...One of the first DVD steelbooks was for this film, sealing its place in history. The blu ray has an above average video quality and - thankfully - the audio features a much better LFE track than its immediate predecessor did.
That brings us to...
A Good Day to Die Hard
Ugh...how about you consider this a 4 movie collection with a "bonus" movie you don't have to watch if you don't want to?
Ok...Die Hard 5 is NOT the worst sequel ever (Superman IV gives it a hard run for its money for starters) but it's nowhere near good.
The pieces are there with John McClain attempting to reconnect with his estranged son who is (secretly) a CIA agent. The movie peaks a bit too early with an above average car chase sequence but never really builds to anything. This needed a few additional passes in the story phase to flesh out what is a decent, if poorly executed, idea. This one is the most modern of the five (obviously) so, as you would expect, this has the best audio and video quality.
The packaging is a slightly wider than normal amray case with two insert trays. No disc stacking and each movie with extras (yah) are on their own disc.
If you haven't seen Die Hard, or you want Die Hard on Blu Ray, this is the way to go. The set has dropped in price to under $20 for the five movies, and while its audio/video quality varies from film to film, there simply isn't a better budget option for the movies. The first one, and only the first one, is on 4k, so if you have that setup and you *love* Die Hard 1 (as you should), that's something to consider.
Yippie Kay Aye...bleep bleep bleep Happy trails!
Length of ownership: 44
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Heat - 4K Blu-Ray [Standard] [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/42d04bfd-6a22-4510-bd90-74edfa42798d.jpg)
Al Pacino and Robert de Niro appear on-screen together for the first time in writer/director Michael Mann's intense crime drama. Frazzled LAPD detective Lt. Vincent Hanna (Pacino) is out to stop a group of highly skilled professional thieves headed by mastermind Neil McCauley (De Niro), who's looking for one last score. The stakes rise to dangerous levels as Hanna and McCauley become locked in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse. Val Kilmer, Ashley Judd, Tom Sizemore, and Jon Voight co-star. 172 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack English. Two-disc set.
Customer Rating
4
Turn up the Heat on a solid 4K / BD release
on February 1, 2023
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Heat is cops and robbers for grown ups.
It has action, and it is intense, but it isn't a modern action movie. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but anyone looking for THAT with THIS movie is going to be very disappointed.
This movie takes its time. There's barely any action in the first two hours of its runtime. The film takes its time to introduce us to the characters, their lives, their dreams (or lack there of) and how regular, every day life pulls them further and further away from where they thought they would be.
The film engages you to bring you closer to its characters so that quiet moments have significance and we feel the intensity, dread and concern that each one does for their own situation. Al Pachino's character is "good" but does bad things. Robert DeNiro's character is "bad" but does good things. Val Kilmer is loyal and clever, but does some awful things on the domestic front. The three dimensionality of the characters is critical because when the third hour kicks in with an action sequence (is it a spoiler to say there's a bank robbery in a cops and robbers film...? I don't think so...), the sequence is successful in part because of its technical merits (it's extremely well shot and paced) but more so because we know these characters and relate to both sides beyond "good" and "evil."
The final act is not non-stop action, but it has several intense sequences leading all the way to the end. It almost feels like a different movie in its back half, and some may feel it's a reward for sitting through the much slower first half, but the truth is that neither side functions without the other.
Heat is also not a new film, so it's likely anyone checking it out has already seen it or - at least - heard of it. If you haven't done either then you should consider:
1) do you like movies with characters who are opposed on the surface but less so in their characterizations?
2) do you like law enforcement movies with obsession as a theme front and center?
3) do you like classic movies (yes, it's almost 30 years old...)...?
If you even consider "yes" for 1 or more of these questions, I'd recommend checking this movie out.
Now, the set.
Brand New 4K transfer...that is REALLY dark. Have a good set up because while the transfer holds up mostly well, it is dark. Darker than the previous warner and 20th century 1080 Blu Ray transfers were (although research on this edition seems to indicate that the 4K transfer is from the same source, which was mastered at 2K so...who knows?). It certainly looks good if more than a bit gray in its color palate. Dynamic Range (between light and dark scenes) is quite wide and although there is some softness, its probably due to the source rather than a mastering error...grain is present throughout but not excessive. It looks like a film, not a digital output (which is good considering digital wasn't a significant thing yet when this film came out...)
The Blu Ray Discs (1 movie + 1 extra) included in the package are the same as the prior 20th century fox discs, so if you're future proofing your collection and you have the prior 20th Century Fox release you will get it again here. All extras are transfered over and you get a really nice assortment including approx. 4 hours of supplements in addition to the commentary over the film.
There is a slipcover in its first pressing - I got one. Always a nice bonus for those that care about things like that...
All and all, this is a very solid 4K release (not a demo release but there's nothing in the film that would lead you to think it should be...) and an overall great presentation of an unusual, engaging and interesting film in term of tech specs (audio/video) plus extras. It's not for everyone (not for kids, not just for the violence and language but for the overall pace). Don't expect a big triumphant positive ending but rather one that will leave you thinking and even sad...and you're good to go.
Length of ownership: 14
Mobile Submission: False
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Catwoman: Hunted [Blu-ray] [Standard]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/3016f507-5fde-4f8b-94b3-55cb9142a1e3.jpg)
Customer Rating
1
There aren't words to describe how bad this is...
on March 29, 2022
Posted by: MovieGuy
Verified Purchase:Yes
Oh wow...just...wow.
And not in a good way.
This review is for the Blu Ray / Digital Code version of this "movie."
So DC Animated Films. Yep, there have been over 30 of them cranked out during the past 20 years and...I've seen every single one of them (or at least own all of them...a few are still in my queue to watch).
They are not masterpieces...they are fun comic book adventures that usually need to have a longer run time than what their budgets can afford.
Catwoman: Hunted starts off ok...and quickly goes off the rails to be one of the worst viewing experiences I've ever had. It's...terrible.
And surprising...the writer on this project wrote Gargoyles, Spectacular Spider-Man and Young Justice. He has a great resume.
This shouldn't be on it.
What are the issues?
1) what is this story about? Something about a gem? And other dimensional things? And the mob? not sure. It's like you take every possible comic book trope and throw it into a blender and hit puree. This movie has a jewel heist sequence AND and a rampage by other dimensional monsters led by a juiced up Cheetah.
Uh huh...that's about as much sense as any of it makes.
Does Catwoman have a character arc? Kinda...it shows up in the last five minutes of the movie AND the opening credits (which feature cool stylized animation). The actual movie kinda ignores it though.
Cheetah? I guess Catwoman doesn't have a rogues gallery since she is part of a rogues gallery so let's just use whoever. Batwoman, Black Mask, King Faraday, Cheetah, Solomon Grundy all show up and disappear and show up and disappear. Don't ask...there's no point. They're just there...except when they're not.
The animation is super anime-like. That's actually ok and smoothly animated. No real gripes, although if you don't like anime styles...well...
The music. Oh my...the mess of a story looks like a masterpiece compared to the audial dysfunction that serves as this movie's score. It's synthesized jazz. Nothing wrong with jazz. This movie NEVER stops the music...all 82 minutes of it...non stop. Sometimes it's so loud you can't hear anything else (yes, my system has balanced speakers). The "music" is white noise and it's distracting, annoying and honestly makes you want to turn off the whole movie just to make it stop.
Music is a critical element of the movie going experience, especially an action or comic book film. Music reflects the mood that the audience is supposed to be feeling.
Except here.
It just is whatever it is. Sometimes its at total odds with the scene (romantic scene between Batwoman and Catwoman except the music is a bombastic action jazz score) and sometimes it just overpowers everything with how it's a separate stand alone element (although I would never ever listen to this stand alone...I almost muted the movie).
To be honest, this movie felt like a bunch of characters were provided to an anime studio who animated the heck out of it with people fighting each other for no rhyme or reason and then they move on to other people fighting each other. Then the poor "writer" was given the film and told to "script" it based on what he saw happen on screen. It's a total misfire and that makes no sense considering the pedigree of the talent listed in the credits unless you figure they didn't actually have anything to do with the film itself. Then you realize why the characters keep making snarky responses about the movie itself and other 4th wall breaking attempts.
Which, in a proper environment, could be clever, meta and funny.
This is none of those.
I can't think of a possible thing to recommend this. It doesn't even have a DC Short.
Sorry, Catwoman, you totally deserved better.
Length of ownership: 26
Mobile Submission: False
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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MovieGuy's Answers
![Superman: The Movie [4K Ultra HD Blu-ray/Blu-ray] [1978]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/43acfbf1-bb73-4486-9b04-a01295bf1093.jpg)
Is the blu ray that comes with this the theatrical cut ?
No, there are two blu rays in this set. One is the EXTENDED cut of Superman the Movie, which is the 3 hour ABC tv edit that aired over two nights in 1982. The second is the SPECIAL EDITION of Superman the Movie. This was created in 2000 in response to a trend in Hollywood at the time attempting to replicate the success of the Star Wars Special Edition edits from 1997. Richard Donner did work with the production team for this, although it isn’t what appeared theatrically in 1978. Audio and visual effects are added and/or updated. There is also new footage added.
4 years, 5 months ago
by
MovieGuy
Does the 4K movie come with the digital code?
The 4K version of Superman the Movie is the theatrical cut and comes with a digital code (if slipcover is on the product…WB is known to remove digital codes on subsequent releases where the slipcover is not issued, which is why WB product only shows digital codes on the outside o ring and not on the case artwork itself). Superman the Movie was a catalog title, so still available with its o ring. One more caveat…the digital code did have an expiration of 12/31/20 so it may or may not be active still…
4 years, 5 months ago
by
MovieGuy