King Kong DVD Features Announced

DVD Confidential has the scoop on King Kong! We have learned that Universal will release a Limited Edition DVD of Peter Jackson's King Kong on March 28, 2006. The DVD will be loaded with extra features and of course, it will be a huge hit. The visuals for King Kong are absolutely incredible and this is one movie that will make any TV look good. Here is the official release info on the King Kong DVD, direct from Universal Studios:

Available as a Single Disc and Limited Edition Two-Disc DVD Set Containing Never-Before-Seen Featurettes, Extensive Behind-the-Scenes Footage and Specially-Commissioned Package Artwork

“The jaw-dropping, eye-popping, heart-stopping movie epic
we’ve been waiting for all year.” –Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

Packed with heart-pounding action, breathtaking visual effects and one of 2005’s most acclaimed box-office blockbusters, King Kong, this year’s most highly anticipated DVD, arrives in stores March 28, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Three-time Academy Award® winner Peter Jackson, director of the landmark Lord of the Rings trilogy, sets a new standard for unforgettable suspense filled with nail-biting danger, high emotion and amazing creatures beyond imagination including the legendary beast as never before seen.

The DVD, featuring collectable original package artwork specially designed by the Oscar®-winning artists at WETA Digital Ltd, the production company behind the film’s dazzling visual effects, is available in both the thrilling original theatrical version and a Special Edition two-disc set that gives audiences a whole new “Kong” experience. Featuring a fascinating inside look into the creation of the film’s two cinematic worlds – Skull Island and 1933 New York City – the Special Edition offers an unparalleled opportunity to share Peter Jackson’s creative genius and the cast and crew’s passion in bringing the timeless story to the screen.

“King Kong is one of those rare cinematic achievements that reminds us of the truly magical power of movies,” says Craig Kornblau, President of Universal Studios Home Entertainment. “From the first frame, Peter Jackson and his team take us on an unforgettable adventure that not only thrills, but also touches us on a deep, emotional level. We are extremely proud to be able to bring this one-of-a-kind film to home entertainment audiences.”

“The original King Kong inspired me to become a filmmaker,” said director/producer Peter Jackson. “It’s a story that had a profound personal impact and shepherding its return to the big screen has been a dream come true. Contributing to the DVD afforded me the opportunity to share this amazing experience with audiences and highlight the incredible achievements of our exceptional cast and crew.”

King Kong features a stellar cast including Oscar® nominee Naomi Watts (21 Grams), Jack Black (School of Rock), Oscar® winner Adrien Brody (The Pianist), Colin Hanks (Orange County), and Andy Serkis (the Lord of the Rings trilogy). Director and producer Jackson co-wrote the update on the classic 1933 film with his longtime collaborators and fellow Oscar® winners Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens. The film has earned over $215 million at the box-office, been honored on countless “Best Movie” lists, and is nominated for four Academy Awards®, including Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction, Best Sound Editing and Best Sound Mixing. A must-see and must-have action adventure epic for movie lovers of all ages, King Kong marks a quantum leap in thrilling home entertainment.

A timeless tale of love and survival, King Kong is the story of a desperate young actress, Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts), and an ambitious and unscrupulous movie producer, Carl Denham (Jack Black), who travel to a mysterious jungle island. There they discover an extraordinary lost world, and encounter Kong, a gigantic, savage gorilla who is unexpectedly smitten with the leading lady. But it is their mutual empathy and affection that eventually lead to the beast’s tragic downfall.

King Kong Special Edition DVD Features:

The two-disc King Kong Special Edition DVD allows viewers unparalleled access to the world of visionary filmmaker Peter Jackson as he creates this larger-than-life epic adventure for the ages. Thrilling behind-the-scenes features bring this instant classic to viewers in a whole new way with exclusive content that follows the film’s stars and crew in action as they bring this timeless tale to the screen.

- Special Introduction by Peter Jackson

- Post Production Diaries – Director Peter Jackson takes you on an unforgettable journey with Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody and the crew of King Kong as they reveal virtually every aspect of post production on this groundbreaking film, nearly three hours of exclusive behind the scenes footage!

- Skull Island: A Natural History – Travel to treacherous Skull Island with Peter Jackson and his crew! From its mysterious origins to its reclusive inhabitants and jaw-dropping creatures, uncover the fascinating facts about one of the last uncharted places on earth.

- Kong’s New York, 1933 – 1930s New York comes alive in this fascinating piece that explores vaudeville, the skyscraper boom, the construction of the Empire State building and more.

Pre-Order King Kong Special Edition On DVD From DVD Empire

Review: Ice Harvest (B-)

Ice Harvest (2005)
Directed by Harold Ramis
Starring John Cusack, Billy Bob Thornton, Connie Nielsen and Oliver Platt
MPAA:R
Grade: B-

Review by Sebastian Francis Kennedy

Harold Ramis has a very good track record when it comes to comedy. Groundhog Day is perhaps one of the most underrated comedies of all time. Caddyshack is a classic and National Lampoon's Vacation is one of the most popular comedies of our era. Obviously, the gentleman knows comedy.

That's why Ice Harvest is a little unusual. This is a different type of Harold Ramis feature. It's a bit methodical, and it feels more like a Coen brothers film than your standard Ramis fare. Does this film noir/comedy style work? In a way, yes. At times, it is clever. However, for a black comedy, I was expecting the laughs to be deeper, and the dramatic punches to hit harder. Ultimately, this an uneven film with likable stars. Your take on it will depend on how you feel about Cusack and Thornton.

The story behind Ice Harvest is a little predictable. Billy Bob Thornton and John Cusack steal two million dollars from the mob, but due to an ice storm, they are trapped in town for one last night. They guzzle booze, try to stay away from the mob and hope to make a getaway. But things get complicated as the night wears on.

Billy Bob Thornton (Sling Blade, Monster's Ball, The Man Who Wasn't There) and John Cusack (Must Love Dogs, High Fidelity, Sure Thing) do decent turns here, but the lackluster script keeps the Ice Harvest from taking full flight. Ice Harvest is an average little black comedy, but when you consider all of the talent on board, it's surprising that the film doesn't hit harder.

Buy Ice Harvest On DVD From DVD Empire

DVD Giveaway Winners Announced

We love to give away free DVDs, t-shirts and more. Here's proof:

Congratulations go out to Diane, Cody, JG12, Mary and Kevin. Diane won a copy of The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till. Cody won a Doom T-shirt and movie poster. JG12 won the Ultimate Avengers Movie on DVD and Kevin won a copy of the Seat Filler.

Want a chance to win our next big giveaway? It's easy! Simply sign up to get our movie reviews via our free Monthly Newsletter. You'll receive our top reviews, once a month, in a tidy little e-mail. It's a great way to stay up to date on the latest DVD releases. Plus, you may just win some awesome DVDs!

Review: Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (B-)

Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (B-)
Directed By Bob Richardson
Featuring the voices of Justin Gross, Grey Delisle and Michael Massee
MPAA: PG-13
Grade: B-

Review by Bobby Nashville

I admit it. I don't know much about comics. I know that comic book fans take this stuff very seriously, so I will try not offend anyone with my ignorance. However, I do like movies and I think that films based on comic books still need to tell a cohesive, interesting story without insulting our intelligence. Most of the animated garbage out there nowadays falls short in that regard. Thankfully, the Ultimate Avengers movie isn't one of them.

Ultimate Avengers: The Movie is inspired by Marvel's best-selling books, The Ultimates. Captain America is the leader and as he (and his friends Iron Man, Thor, Giant Man, Wasp and The Hulk) battle evil, they tell a tale of courage, and fighting for what's right. A little corny, but hey, what do you expect from a guy named Captain America?

Ultimate Avengers: The Movie has a solid script, and it looks decent. The voice overs are a little outlandish, but that is to be expected of a story of this nature. For fans of animated features, this is about as solid as it gets. Great job by the folks at Marvel. Let's hope they continue to put out feature length animated films, because this is a great start.

Buy The Ultimate Avengers On DVD

Review: The Seat Filler (B)

The Seat Filler (2004)
Directed by Nick Castle
Starring Duane Martin, Kelly Rowland, Melanie Brown, Deray Davis & Ptrick Fischler
MPAA: PG-13
Grade: B

Review by Bobby Nashville

A pleasant surprise, The Seat Filler is a light romantic comedy that is well acted and directed. There are some great performances by the leads here and for what it is (let's face it, its a chick flick) it works. Funny, smart, you name it, this is a decent little comedy that really sneaks up on you.

Duane Martin stars as Derrick, a professional "Seat Filler". His job is to fill empty seats during awards shows so the auditorium always looks full. By chance he is seated next to Jhnelle, a superstar performer that mistakes him for a music exec. He makes small talk and before he knows it, they spark a little romance. Look - this isn't Casablance by any means but there is definitely a real chemistry between Martin and Kelly Rowland (Jhnelle). They come from two different worlds but seem to connect and the viewer ends up rooting for them.

I'll take the barbs that may come my way, but what can I say? I fell for the Seat Filler. There's some nice light comedy, a little romance and the music is even pretty good. In the words of Ebert and that smug little bastard that replaced Siskel, "thumbs up".

Buy The Seat Filler On DVD From DVD Empire

Review: Pulse (C)

Pulse (2001)
Directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa
Starring Haruhiko Katô, Kumiko Aso, Koyuki, Kurume Arisaka
MPAA: UR
Grade: C

Review by Bobby Nashville

Pulse is a film with a legion of fans. Many hail it as a masterpiece, a modern day classic of horror. I didn't find it to be that, exactly. Interesting at times, yes, but this one just didn't register as a masterpiece for me.

Pulse tells the story of ghosts (or are they?) appearing on computer screens. They travel via technology, inhabit the bodies of those who use technology and trap them forever. Obviously, some major motion pictures have lifted from Pulse, most notably The Ring and Blair Witch Project. The film is a play on loneliness, and how humans are not truly connecting anymore. As I said, there are some interesting aspects to Pulse.

On the other hand, Pulse is repetitive, slow and poorly acted. It seems to go in circles and while it may be an influential film, it isn't a great one. I can't recommend it, unless you are huge fan of Japanese horror films.

I'd also like to point out that the DVD version of Pulse that I viewed came with previews that could not be skipped or even fast forwarded through. Basically, if you want to watch the movie, you are forced to sit through endless commercials for other films. This is a disturbing trend that we here at DVD Confidential are strongly against. We feel that if a customer has purchased a DVD, they should not have to sit through commercials. Previews are best left as an option on DVDs, not a requirement that the user must meet in order to see the film. The fact that this infringement appears on a film with a message about how humans are being enslaved by technology is actually a bit ironic.

Buy Pulse On DVD From DVD Empire

DVD Giveaway: Win A Copy Of The Seat Filler

We have a copy of the hit film The Seat Filler to give away to a lucky newsletter subscriber, courtesy of Magnolia Home Entertainment and DVD Confidential.

Here's how to be eligible: 1) Make sure you are signed up for our monthly newsletter and then 2) email scott at dvdconfidential.com the name of the film's director. We will choose a lucky winner to receive a copy of the Seat Filler on DVD later this week. Good luck!

Here is the official synopsis for the Seat Filler, direct from Magnolia Home Entertainment: "A struggling law student (Duane Martin) takes a job as an awards show seat filler. One day, he is seated next to the beautiful pop superstar Jhnelle (Kelly Rowland), who mistakes him for an industry executive. With an instant chemistry, the two fall for each other, but he must choose between his conscience and the love of his life."

Seat Filler Web Site

Buy The Seat Filler On DVD From DVD Empire

Win Ultimate Avengers: The Movie On DVD

Are you a comic book fan? Well, Marvel's first animated feature is finally out on DVD and we have a free copy to give away to one lucky DVD Confidential Newsletter subscriber. Want it? Here's how to be eligible to win Ultimate Avengers: The Movie.

First make sure you are signed up for our Monthly Newsletter. Then, email Scott at DVD Confidential Dot Com, with the subject line "Avengers". We will chose one lucky winner later this week! Man, we love giving away cool stuff to our readers and this is an awesome DVD. Good luck!

Review: The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till (B)

The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till (2005)
Directed by Keith Beauchamp
MPAA: PG-13
Grade: B

Review by Sebastian Francis Kenedy

Before Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks, the story of Emmett Louis Till struck a chord with American citizens, shining a light on the deep racism that ruled the south. Director Keith Beauchamp's bold documentary The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till tells the story of racism, murder, political corruption and more. This wonderful documentary deserves the accolades that it is receiving.

In August of 1955, Mamie Till-Mobley sent her only child, Emmett Louis Till, to visit relatives in Mississippi. Being from Chicago, the young boy was not familiar with the harsh, racist philosophies that currently ruled the south. While in Mississippi with friends, young Emmett whistled at a white woman in public. A rude gesture perhaps, but certainly not worthy of physical punishment. The next day, young Emmett was dragged from his great uncle's home, brutally tortured and ultimately murdered by two white men. This documentary examines the facts behind the case and dramatically tells the story behind this important civil rights case.

The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till is a shocking, tragic and certainly fascinating documentary about our country's racist (and not too distant) past. It is a testament to the filmmaker that this documentary is getting distribution and is becoming available as an educational guide. The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till is highly recommmended.

Buy The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till On DVD From DVD Empire

Now On DVD - The Ultimate Lesbian Short Film Festival

DVD Confidential has the goods on a very exciting new DVD - The Ultimate Lesbian Short Film Festival. The Ultimate Lesbian Short Film Festival includes ten exciting new visions by, for and about lesbians. The shorts range from whimsical comedies to heart wrenching dramas, each short exploring a different aspect of the complexity of lesbian life.

DVD Confidential will be featuring a review of this compilation soon. The DVD is ready for purchase. Here is the lineup for the The Ultimate Lesbian Short Film Festival:

• Roberta Marie Munroe - Director of Dani and Alice
• Abigail Severance - Director of Saint Henry
• Silas Howard - Director of Frozen Smile
• Elizabeth McCarthy - Director of Everything Good
• Chris Russo - Director of A Woman Reported

Buy The Ultimate Lesbian Short Film Festival On DVD From DVD Empire

Review: Moonlighting Season Three (B)

Review: Moonlighting Season Three (2005)
Directed by Glenn Gordon Caron
Starring Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd
MPAA: UR
Grade: B

Review by Bobby Nashville

Although the show was technically about two private eyes that solve crimes, Moonlighting was really all about the chemistry between famed actress Cybill Shepherd and a then up and coming young actor named Bruce Willis. Willis really stole the show (in my opinion) and this was well before Die Hard, Pulp Fiction and Sin City made him a huge star.

Moonlighting was plagued with production problems (late scripts, cranky stars, etc.) and I remember the tabloids of the day making a big deal about how the two stars really did not like each other. Who knows if this was true or not, but the fact remains that Bruce and Cybill had excellent on-screen chemistry, and it shows in Moonlighting Season Three.

The first two seasons of Moonlighting teased viewers relentlessly with the "will they or won't they" aspect of the show. Moonlighting Season Three is the year that Maddie (Shepherd) and David (Willis) finally hook up and for the most part, it was worth the wait. The show pulls it off with grace and originality. However, many feel that this point was where the show "jumped the shark".

Moonlighting was known for it's witty banter and although there is plenty of that in season three, some of the episodes fall flat, especially the Rona Barret episode. However, overrall, this was a decent season for Moonlighting. Of course, the fact that Maddie and David hook up makes this a must own (for fans of the show).

Buy Moonlighting Season Three On DVD From Amazon

See No Evil Set For May

Lionsgate has announced that See No Evil is set to bring the smackdown to theaters everywhere on May 19th 2006. The film is directed by Gregory Dark and it stars wrestling star Kane.

Here is the official synopsis on See No Evil, direct from the studio:

"Coming this summer from Lionsgate is a horror flick entitled See No Evil, starring World Wrestling Entertainment's Kane, a.k.a. Glen Jacobs. Kane plays reclusive psychopath Jacob Goodnight, a 7-foot-tall, 400 lb. madman with a rusty steel plate in his skull and razor-sharp fingernails that pluck out his victims' eyes. Goodnight's holed up in the long-abandoned and rotting Blackwell Hotel, alone with his nightmares until eight petty criminals show up for community service duty along with the cop who put a bullet in Jacob's head four years ago. When one of their own is kidnapped by the killer and her fate uncertain, the remaining lawbreakers must fight this indestructible force of nature with a violent score to settle. Gregory Dark directs, from a script by WWE Smackdown writer Dan Madigan."

Official See No Evil Site

Doom T-Shirt & Poster Giveaway

We love to give away cool movie schwag to our readers, and it doesn't get any cooler than this: we have an official Doom movie poster to give away, AND we have an official Doom T-Shirt (size large) to give away. Suh-weeeeet. Seriously, these are both awesome collectibles and if you are fan of the game, the movie, or the Rock, you absolutely must enter this giveaway.

Here's how to be eligible: first, make sure you are signed up for our monthly newsletter. Don't worry, it's a basic text-only recap of our best reviews of the month, but you need to be on our subscriber list to be eligible. Second, simply email scott at DVD confidential dot com your preference (T-Shirt or Movie Poster). We will pick one lucky winner for both prizes early next week. Since our newsletter is fairly new, you've actually got pretty decent odds. Good luck everybody!

Buy Doom On DVD From DVD Empire

Coming Soon To DVD: The Ice Harvest

Universal Studios has announced that the Harold Ramis comedy The Ice Harvest is coming to DVD on February 28th. We are big fans of Ramis (Groundhog Day) as a director (and as an actor), so we are looking forward to this one. Here is the official synopsis on Ice Harvest, direct from Universal:

"John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton lead an all-star cast in this hilarious and unpredictable thriller that critics are calling, "very funny stuff" (Richard Roeper, Ebert & Roeper).

When lawyer Charlie (Cusack) and his partner Vic (Thornton) steal from a mob boss, they think they've pulled off the perfect crime. But when they race through a night filled with mayhem, lust and lethal surprises, they realize that the biggest risk they'll take will be trusting each other.

From the director of Analyze This and Groundhog Day, The Ice Harvest cracks with outrageous laughs and slippery twists that will keep you guessing until the very end!

Ice Harvest DVD Bonus Materials
- Alternate Endings
- Outtake with Billy Bob Thorton
- Cracking the Story
- Beneath the Harvest
- Ice Cracking: Analysis of a Scene
- Audio Commentary with Director Harold Ramis

Also check out the super cool trailer:

Ice Harvest Movie Trailer (Quicktime)

Buy The Ice Harvest On DVD From DVD Empire

Review: Wildfire Season One (B-)

Wildfire Season One (2005)
Directed by Bradford May, Rachel Talalay, More
Starring Genevieve Cortese, Nicole Tubiola, Nana Visitor, Dennis Weaver and Greg Serano
MPAA: UR
Grade: B-

Review by Scott Standish

The marketing material for Wildfire Season One touts the show as "Dallas meets the O.C." As a hard core Dallas fanatic, I can tell you, Wildfire is no Dallas. Doesn't come close. Dallas had boozing, kidnapping, murder - need I go on? Heck, the first episode I ever saw of Dallas had Sue Ellen walking around in bra and panties, slugging back highballs. Wildfire is on the ABC Family channel, so there's not much envelope pushing going on here. It's pretty tame stuff.

However, criticizing a show like Wildfire for not pushing the envelope really isn't fair. Let's face it, the show is intended for family viewers that love horses. It's basically Black Beauty meets the Afterschool Special. And you know what? That's not so bad. For it's target audience, Wildfire gives them exactly what they want: teen romances and lots of horses. It's a teenage girl's dream. So, that's why I'm giving it a passing grade.

Oh yeah, one other thing. It's damn good to see Dennis Weaver again, I haven't seen this fine actor on the screen in a while. Weaver, as many will remember was a regular on Gunsmoke and also starred as McCloud in the 70's. Weaver is excellent in Wildfire and it's nice to see the series reach out to one of the screen's forgotten legends.

The scenery is good and the acting in Wildfire is passable for a soap opera. Go into this one with lowered expectations, folks. Wildfire is certainly not Dallas, but if you are simply looking for solid family fare, you could do a lot worse.

Buy Wildfire Season One On DVD

Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till DVD Giveaway

We love to give away cool movie schwag!

That's why we are excited to announce that we have a copy of The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till to give away to a lucky newsletter subscriber. The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till is a documentary investigating the murder and subsequent injustice surrounding Emmett Louis Till’s death. Many consider this case to be the true catalyst for the American Civil Rights Movement.

To be eligible, sign up for the DVD Confidential Monthly Newsletter. Then e-mail ScottATDVDconfidentialDOTcom the name of the film's director. On February 28th, we will chose one lucky winner to receive a free copy of the film on DVD. Contestants must live in the U.S. (Sorry France!) Good luck!

Seat Filler Coming To DVD

Magnolia Home Entertainment has announced that the much talked about film the Seat Filler has set a DVD release date. The movie stars Kelly Rowland and Duane Martin, and will be available on DVD starting February 21st, 2006

Here is the official synopsis for the Seat Filler, direct from Magnolia Home Entertainment: "A struggling law student (Duane Martin) takes a job as an awards show seat filler. One day, he is seated next to the beautiful pop superstar Jhnelle (Kelly Rowland), who mistakes him for an industry executive. With an instant chemistry, the two fall for each other, but he must choose between his conscience and the love of his life."

Seat Filler Web Site

Buy The Seat Filler On DVD From DVD Empire

Review: Tony Takitani (B)

Tony Takatani (2004)
Directed by Jun Ichikawa
Starring Issei Ogata, Rie Miyazawa and Shinohara Takahumi
MPAA: UR
Grade: B

Review by Sebastian Francis Kennedy

Tony Takitani is a wonderful, delicate film that combines gentle, yet powerful acting with elegant atmosphere. Director Jun Ichikawa spins a beautiful tale of love, longing and loneliness. Tony Takitani is a lyrical film that slowly develops. The director's style reminds me of Bergman, Ozu and maybe even Jarmusch.

Issei Ogata stars in a dual role here, both as Tony Takitani and as his father, a jazz musician that "was not made to be a father". Tony is a loner that is a talented illustrator. He finds love and eventually marries a girl fifteen years his junior. The woman (played in another dual role by Rie Miyazawa) is a compulsive shopper that steadily amasses an enormous collection of designer clothing. She cannot stop shpping and this puts strain on the marriage.

Tony Takitani is an elegant story told with precision and grace. The acting is above par and the somber cinematography by Taishi Hirokawa is excellent. Nominated for a Best Foreign Film 2006 Independent Spirit Award, Tony Takitani is a fascinating piece of cinema. It was a standout at Sundance and for good reason.

Buy Tony Takatani On DVD From DVD Empire

Review: Doom (C+)

Doom (2005)
Directed by Andre Bartkowiak
Starring The Rock, Karl Urban, Rosamund Pike and Raz Adoti
MPAA: UR
Grade: C+

Review by Scott Standish

By now everybody knows the story on Doom. Back in the day, Doom was the Jaws of video games - a blockbuster that created a whole new style, one that everyone was soon to follow. Doom was the video game that everybody had to have, whether you were a hard core gamer or not.

Why was Doom (the game) such a phenomenon? Well, for starters, it was a lot of fun. The object was to shoot anything that moves. It was a thrill to be able to just blast things for the hell of it, and every now and then you were shocked by a creature or two. It was fun, and a little scary. The film version of the game doesn't vary from this formula much. Guys wander around in futuristic tunnels, slowly shooting everything that moves. But the problem here is that film is missing the fun, and come to think of it, it's missing the horror, too. Unfortunately, not much is left.

Surprisingly, Doom succeeds where one thinks it should fail, and vice versa. Based on his pro-wrestler past, I was expecting The Rock to be a cartoonish oaf, tossing grenades and churning out catch phrases like Bruce Willis in Die Hard. But The Rock is quite decent in Doom, giving a restrained, fairly convincing performance. On the flip side, you would expect Doom to have some awesome action sequences since it is based on a violent, action based first person shooter. But Doom's action sequences are pretty lame. The aliens are pretty generic and no one will be surprised by the fight scenes.

I was hoping that Doom might be a pleasant surprise, like the first Resident Evil. Doom doesn't quite reach that peak, but at least it's not horrible. In fact, Doom exceeded my low expectations, perhaps on the merits of the solid acting performances alone. Unfortunately, the unimaginative script holds Doom back from reaching the next level (no pun intended) and ultimately, this is a movie that is probably best left for sci-fi action fans only.

The BFG is a nice touch, though.

Buy Doom On DVD from DVD Empire

Horror Film Pulse Comes To DVD

DVD Confidential has learned that the much talked about horror film Pulse will soon be coming to DVD. According to Magnolia Home Entertainment, the DVD release of Pulse is set for February 21st , 2006.

Here is the synopsis, direct from Magnolia Home Entertainment:

"Often referred to as one of the scariest films ever made, Pulse tells the story of a group of young friends rocked by the sudden suicide of one of their own, and his subsequent, ghostly reappearance in grainy computer and video images. Is their friend trying to contact them from beyond the grave, or is there something much more sinister afoot? The mysterious floppy disk they find in the dead man's apartment may provide a clue, but instead launches a program that seems to present odd, ethereal transmissions of people engaged in solitary activities in their apartments. But there is something not quite right in the appearance and behavior of these lonely souls. Soon, there are more strange deaths and disappearances within the group, terrifying rooms sealed in red tape, and the appearance of more ghosts as the city of Tokyo—and the world—is slowly drained of life."

"Predating many of the Japanese horror (J-horror) films that have been re-made for American audiences (including The Grudge, Dark Water), Pulse was originally purchased by Miramax in 2001 to make way for a re-make. Eschewing gore and easy shocks for a harrowing tone unique to his cinema, writer/director Kiyoshi Kurosawa has made a dense and complex film whose metaphysical and psychological resonance will last long after the chills have subsided."

Official Pulse Web Site

Pulse DVD Specs:
Pulse - R for some violent images
Runtime approx. 119 minutes
Japanese, 2.0 Stereo
1.78:1 Widescreen (Enhanced for 16x9 Televisions
Subtitles: English and Spanish
Closed-Captioning
Special Features (not rated): The Making-of Pulse: behind-the-scenes footage and Theatrical Trailer

Pre-Order Pulse On DVD from DVD Empire

Review: Waiting (B)

Waiting (2005)
Directed by Rob McKittrick
Starring Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris, Justin Long, Luis Guzmán, & Chi McBride
MPAA: R
Grade: B

Review by Bobby Nashville

Waiting is crude and rude. It's also pretty funny.

If you have ever worked in a restaurant, then you know that the number one rule is: never mess with people who handle your food. It's amazing how many people don't know this rule, or think they don't need to heed it. But believe me, it's a wise rule to follow.

Waiting is a slice of life film, showing what it's like to work at a restaurant. The angry customers, the sleazy co-workers, the mindless bosses, the disgusting in-jokes - if you've ever worked ina restaurant or bar, you know the story. In Waiting, Monty (Ryan Reynolds) takes a new worker under his wing and teaches him the ins and outs of Shenanigans, the local eatery. The co-workers play a sick game where they surprise each other by showing their genitals. If one looks, the other gets to kick them in the ass. A lot of the movie revolves around "the game" and although its kind of stupid, it does bring along a few laughs.

Waiting is a crude little comedy that somehow works, largely through the acting of Ryan Reynolds, Luis Guzmán and Justin Long. These guys constantly rag on each other and you can't help but find it funny. Waiting is a pleasant surprise.

Buy Waiting On DVD From DVD Empire

Winter Passing Features Deschanel, Harris & Ferrell

DVD Confidential just received a quick heads up about a very interesting film hitting theaters on February 17th. It's called Winter Passing and it stars Zooey Deschanel (All The Real Girls), Ed Harris (Glengarry Glen Ross, A Beautiful Mind) and Will Ferrell. Here's more information on the movie, direct from Yari Film:

"A dramatic comedy by award-winning playwright Adam Rapp, Winter Passing charts the fractious reunion of an estranged father and daughter. Struggling twenty-something actress Reese Holden (Zooey Deschanel) has been promised a small fortune for publication of love letters written by her legendary, but reclusive father, novelist Don Holden (Ed Harris), to his late wife, also an acclaimed writer and Reese's mother. In search of these letters, Reese journeys from New York City back home for the first time since her angst filled childhood, she arrives to find her father in flagrant disregard of his own health and living with two younger housemates: Shelly (Amelia Warner), a former grad student of Don’s with a maternal streak and the other, Corbit (Will Ferrell) a would-be Christian rock musician. Though no angel herself, Reese does not approve of her father’s ad-hoc "family" and does her best to rattle the arrangement they have set up. Little by little, Reese comes to appreciate her unlikely new siblings and as secrets are revealed, Reese comes to terms with her father, their shared past and hopeful future."

Official Winter Passing Web Site

Coming To DVD: Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till

We are excited to pass on some breaking news regarding the acclaimed documentary The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till. According to ThinkFilm Home Entertainment, the film will be released on DVD on February 28th. This looks very interesting and we promise to pass on a review for this DVD very soon. In the meantime, here is the official info on The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till, direct from the studio:

"The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till is a documentary investigating the murder and subsequent injustice surrounding Emmett Louis Till’s death. Many consider this case to be the true catalyst for the American Civil Rights Movement.

In August 1955, Mamie Till-Mobley of Chicago sent her only child, 14-year old Emmett Louis Till, to visit relatives in the Mississippi Delta. Little did she know that 8 days later, Emmett would be abducted from his Great-Uncle’s home, brutally beaten and murdered for one of the oldest Southern taboos: addressing a white woman in public. The murderers were soon arrested but later acquitted of murder by an all-white, all-male jury. However, Emmett did not die in vain. His horrific, senseless death sparked national media attention when his mother insisted on having an open casket funeral. Her decision was controversial but her reason was simple: “I want the world to see what they did to my son.” Till’s death sparked the Black Resistance of the South which later became known as the American Civil Rights Movement. Scholars and historians have studied the murder of Emmett Till ever since, and the case has even made its way through African-American folklore. Even after five decades, people continue to be fascinated and troubled by the murder of Till. Many books have been written revealing the incongruous facts surrounding the influential case and controversial jury decision.

But…the true story had never been revealed.

Filmmaker Keith Beauchamp has produced a documentary unfolding a drama that has haunted society for the last 50 years. He reveals the end product of nine years of research and investigation, hoping to finally bringing justice to a family and a nation’s agony. The true story is being told for the first time, redefining the way we think and feel about the American Civil Rights Movement.

Unlike any other work produced on the Till case, The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till reveals unprecedented accounts by first-hand eyewitnesses, many of whom are speaking out for the first time. This documentary is an historical and investigative journey aimed to inform and educate all walks of life.

On May 10, 2004, the United States Justice Department reopened the investigation into the murder of Emmett Louis Till, citing Beauchamp’s film as the main impetus and starting point for their investigation."

Official Web Site For The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till

Pre-Order The Untold Story Of Emmett Louis Till On DVD from DVD Empire

Loggerheads Coming To DVD March 22nd

Loggerheads, a Sundance Film Festival favorite and Outfest Award Winner is coming to DVD March 22nd. The DVD will feature several interesting extras, including:

- Commentary Track by Writer/Director Tim Kirkman
- Interviews with Bonnie Hunt and Kip Pardue
- Digital Story Boards and Photo Gallery
- Deleted Scenes
- Original Theatrical Trailer
- Letterbox - 16x9 - Motion Menu

The film has won several awards, including:

OFFICIAL SELECTION - 2005 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL, DRAMATIC COMPETITION
WINNER - BEST FEATURE FILM, GRAND JURY PRIZE, OUTFEST 2005 (LA)
WINNER - BEST FEATURE FILM (AUDIENCE AWARD), 2005 NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
WINNER - BEST FEATURE FILM (AUDIENCE AWARD), 2005 FLORIDA FILM FESTIVAL

Here is the official synopsis on Loggerheads, direct from the studio:

"The terrific “Loggerheads” is a hauntingly beautiful tale of love, loss and the longing for connection. Anchored by nuanced and inspired performances, “Loggerheads” is a true emotional heart-tugger that stars Kip Pardue, Bonnie Hunt, Tess Harper and Michael Learned and is written and directed by Tim Kirkman (“Dear Jesse,” “The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me”). Deftly interweaving three stories – each on Mother’s Day weekend, the film beautifully depicts the lives of characters who are ultimately driven by their hearts and souls to deal with the repercussions of their past actions and to make things right again, no matter how difficult.

“There is so much that is tender and true in ‘Loggerheads’”, The New York Times extolled during the film’s theatrical release. “A warm, loving film…leaves a deep impression,” noted the Los Angeles Times, while TV Guide awarded the film four stars and Roger Ebert raved “thumbs up!” The movie, named one of the year's 10 best by the Village Voice, won the Best Feature Film awards at Outfest, Nashville and Florida Film Festivals and as an official Selection at the Sundance Film Festival.

The structurally sophisticated “Loggerheads” is set in North Carolina, the home of the filmmaker, in three locales and time periods from 1999-2001. Mark (Pardue) is a young drifter who has shown up in the seaside community of Kure Beach, ostensibly to study the nocturnal loggerhead turtles and work against their distinction. He is virtually penniless but obviously well brought up and intelligent. His plight – the local police don’t care for vagrants – touches a local motel owner (Michael Kelly), who is mourning the drowning of his lover and arranges free lodging for Mark.

Elsewhere, in Eden, Elizabeth (Harper) struggles to stand up to her stern preacher husband (Chris Sarandon) over their estranged son, who was banished from their lives since they’ve learned he was gay. They are religious conservatives with an interest in keeping up appearances, and who cut themselves off from others who don’t share their same values and experiences. She ultimately must decide whether to break with both her husband and the church to do right by her son.

Meanwhile, Grace (Hunt) has returned home to Ashville live with her mother (Learned), still haunted by the child she was forced to give up for adoption years earlier. She embarks on a difficult search to find her child despite the state’s sealed records.

The stories, all seemingly separate, eventually tie together as relationships and personal history slowly begin to fall in place, offering a powerful, heartbreaking and keenly-observed look at middle American intolerance – to ultimately devastating effect."

Pre-Order Loggerheads On DVD from DVD Empire

Saw II Valentine E-Cards

Here are some Valentine’s goodies from Lionsgate in celebration of the Saw II DVD hitting stores February 14th 2006: 4 Valentine "e-Cards" each featuring a special clip straight from the Saw II DVD Bonus Materials, check it out:

Saw II Card 1
Saw II Card 2
Saw II Card 3
Saw II Card 4

For those not in the know (how could that be?) here is the official synopsis on Saw II, straight from the studio:

"Jigsaw is back. The brilliant, disturbed mastermind who wreaked havoc on his victims in last year’s Saw is back for another round of horrifying life-or-death games. When a new murder victim is discovered with all the signs of Jigsaw’s hand, Detective Eric Mason begins a full investigation and apprehends Jigsaw with little effort. But for Jigsaw, getting caught is just another part of his nefarious plan. Eight more of his victims are already fighting for their lives – and now it’s time for Mason to join the game…"

"From Twisted Pictures and Lions Gate Films comes Saw II, starring Donnie Wahlberg, Franky G, Glenn Plummer, Beverley Mitchell, Dina Meyer, Emmanuelle Vaugier, with Shawnee Smith as Amanda, and Tobin Bell as Jigsaw. Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, the film is produced by Gregg Hoffman, Oren Koules and, Mark Burg, and executive produced by SAW director James Wan, Saw’s writer and co-star Leigh Whannell, Stacey Testro, Peter Block and Jason Constantine. Saw II is written by Whannell and Bousman."

Pre-Order Saw II On DVD from DVD Empire

Have a bloody good Valentine’s Day everyone!

Streets Of Legend Movie Poster Winner

Congratulations to Big Al, the winner of the Streets of Legend movie poster. Al, it's on the way!

Want to be eligible to win free schwag every month from DVD Confidential? Then sign up for our Monthly Newsletter. It's a great way to stay up to date on indie, art house and cult films. Plus, you just might win a DVD or poster.

Review: Thumbsucker (A-)

Thumbsucker (2005)
Directed by Mike Mills
Starring Lou Taylor Pucci, Vincent D'Onofrio, Tilda Swinton, Vince Vaughan, Benjamin Bratt, Keanu Reeves and Kelli Garner
MPAA: R
Grade: A-

Review by Sebastian Francis Kennedy

Director Mike Mills ventures into Todd Solonz territory with the slightly unsettling, yet ultimately satisfying feature film, Thumbsucker. On the surface, the story concerns a teenager's addiction to sucking his thumb. However, this addiction is merely a symptom of a larger problem - the teen yearns to fit in, but can't. His family is slowly disintegrating into chaos, and he feels powerless to change it (or himself). He decides that he "wants to change". The film is remarkably well balanced, directed and acted. It is one of the best indie films to hit the U.S. in quite some time.

In Thumbsucker, Justin Cobb (played well by Lou Taylor Pucci) is a high school teen that still sucks his thumb, and is for the most part, a loner. His parents (played by Tilda Swinton, recently of Broken Flowers and Vincent D'Onofrio, (who seems to be in everything these days) are both struggling with their own roles as adults. They refuse to allow their son to call them "Dad" or "Mom", for fear that it makes them feel old. They have trouble dealing with Justin's issues, and finally he takes control of the situation himself by pushing them to allow a doctor's diagnosis to stand. He is put on Ritalin and begins a remarkable transformation.

Thumbsucker features some fantastic acting performances, most notably by Swinton, Taylor Pucci and Vince Vaughan (Wedding Crashers), who plays Justin's debate coach. This is a film that, in tone, reminds me somewhat of American Beauty. It thoroughly dissects the strained relationships that are pushed to the limit when people transform. Director Mike Mills skillfully juggles numerous story threads through the film and in the end, the movie is powerful, uplifting and of course, very enjoyable. Don't miss this one.

Waiting Comes To DVD Feb 7th

One of last year's wildest comedies is finally coming to DVD. Waiting (the Unrated version) will be released on DVD February 7th. Here are the cool DVD features to check out:

Waiting DVD Unrated Version:
- The Works: All Access Interactive Video Commentary
- Sending It Back: The Real Dish on Waiting Tables
- “That Little Extra” Documentary
- Expanded Telestrator Commentary
- Deleted Scenes
- Outtakes
- Alternate Takes
- Spanish Subtitles
- 5.1 and 2.0 Dolby Digital Audio
- English Closed Captions

Here is the official Waiting Synopsis, direct from Lionsgate Home Entertainment:

"A hilarious comedy about frustrated waiters, stingy tippers and dicey food, Lions Gate Films’ Waiting… stars Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris and Justin Long as young employees battling boredom at Shenanigan’s, a generic chain restaurant.
A waiter for four years since high school, Dean (Justin Long) has never questioned his job at Shenanigan’s. But when he learns that Chett, a high school classmate, now has a lucrative career in electrical engineering, he’s thrown into turmoil about his dead-end life.

Dean’s friend Monty (Ryan Reynolds) is in exactly the same boat, but he couldn’t care less. More concerned with partying and getting laid, Monty is put in charge of training Mitch (John Francis Daley), a shy new employee. Over the course of one chaotic shift, Mitch gets to know the rest of Shenanigan’s quirky staff: Monty’s tough-talking ex-girlfriend, Serena (Anna Faris), Shenanigan’s over-zealous manager, Dan (David Koechner), and head cook Raddimus (Luis Guzman), who’s obsessed with a senseless staff-wide competition known only as "The Game"...

Featuring crazy busboys, unsanitary kitchen antics, and lots of talk about sex, Waiting… is a hysterical, behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant industry, and an affectionate ode to those lost, and thoroughly unproductive, days of youth.

Check out the Official Waiting Web Site for awesome new additions like a Dane Cook/Andy Milonakis/Ryan Reynolds/Luis Guzman soundboard - check out hilarious jokes straight from the film!!!"

Pre-Order Waiting On DVD From DVD Empire