2008 animated film Kung Fu Panda on 4K in March

Commissions Earned

According to retailers, the 2008 DreamWorks CG animated film “Kung Fu Panda” is coming to 4K UHD Blu-ray on March 12th distributed by Universal Studios Home Entertainment.  The film, co-directed by John Stevenson & Mark Osborne, featured a voice cast that included Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Ian McShane, Jackie Chan, Lucy Liu, Seth Rogen, David Cross, and James Hong.  It’s certainly worth noting that (over the years since its release) this film has maintained a “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Tech specs for the release include a 2160p video presentation in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio with HDR10 form of high dynamic range and Dolby Atmos sound on a BD-66 disc.  The release will be a “combo pack” with its Blu-ray Disc counterpart included and a digital code (copy) of the film.  That Blu-ray is likely where you’ll get all of the original 2008 extras ported over.

You can now find the 4K UHD Blu-ray available for preorder at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online retailer Deep Discount.  The following bonus materials will be included with this release.

  • Secrets of the Scroll: Find out how Tigress, Viper, Monkey, Crane, and Mantis become the legendary Furious Five warriors in this short film.
  • Meet the Cast
  • Pushing the Boundaries
  • Learn the Panda Dance
  • Learn to Draw
  • Sound Design
  • “Kung Fu Fighting” Music Video by Cee-Lo
  • Do You Kung Fu?
  • Mr. Ping’s Noodle House
  • How to Use Chopsticks
  • Animals of Kung Fu Panda
  • Feature Audio Commentary with Directors John Stevenson and Mark Osborne

Sci-Fi Thriller I.S.S. is coming to Blu-ray in March

Commissions Earned

The 2023 science fiction thriller “I.S.S.” (short for International Space Station) is coming to Blu-ray Disc on March 12th via Decal Releasing, distributing for Bleeker Street.  The film, still in theaters, was directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite and the entire cast includes Ariana DeBose, Chris Messina, John Gallagher Jr., Masha Mashkova, Costa Ronin, and Pilou Asbæk.

The tech specs for the release include a 1080p HD video presentation in the 2.39:1 aspect ratio with DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless surround sound.  You can now find the Blu-ray available for preorder over at Amazon and Walmart.  This release will be region A locked. It appears it will contain no bonus material.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom on Blu-ray and 4K in March

Commissions Earned

The 2023 film “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is officially coming to 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray Disc on March 12th via Warner Bros. Home Entertainment.  The film, directed by James Wan, stars Jason Momoa, Patrick Wilson, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Amber Heard, Nicole Kidman, Randall Park, Temuera Morrison, Dolph Lundgren, and Martin Short.

The tech specs for the 4K release include a 2160p video presentation with Dolby Vision and HDR10 form of high dynamic range and Dolby Atmos sound.  The tech specs for the Blu-ray release include a 1080p HD video presentation and Dolby Atmos sound.  Both releases will contain a digital code (copy) of the film.  You can now find the 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray available for preorder at Amazon.  It’s worth noting that a “2-Film Collection” Blu-ray Disc set will be available, which is also available at Amazon for preorder. Also, retailer Walmart will be getting a 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook (pictured below) as an exclusive and it is now available for preorder as well.

4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook (Walmart Exclusive)

Commissions Earned

The bonus materials set to be included with both releases are listed below.

  • Finding the Lost Kingdom ​
    • Go behind the scenes as director James Wan reveals how he​ and the cast and crew pulled off their biggest endeavor yet, an epic sequel to​ the largest grossing film in the history of DC​.
  • Aquaman: Worlds Above and Below​
    • When the filmmakers set out to create a sequel that eclipsed​ the original in scale and scope, they knew they would have to send Arthur and​ the rest of the cast to all kinds of new wild and wonderful worlds both above and​ below the sea.
  • It’s a Manta World ​
    • Black Manta is more powerful than ever now that he has discovered the Lost Kingdom of Necrus and taken possession of the Black Trident. From inspiration to execution, filmmakers reveal how they leveled Black Manta up to the realm of supervillains​.
  • Necrus, The Lost Black City​
    • Ages ago the great battle for the earth took place here, in this legendary lost Atlantean city. Discover how the filmmakers created the Black City from its “surface city” concept and its inhabitants: Undead Necrusians (Zombies), to its execution​.
  • Escape from the Deserter World ​
    • From idea to execution, explore how the filmmakers created this​ barren desert landscape and the Deserter Prison, how its creatures and​ inhabitants were brought to life, and how they planned and executed the daring Orm “breakout” sequence.
  • Brawling at Kingfish’s Lair ​
    • The Citadel is the last frontier of the ocean, a deep trench filled​ with sunken old ships, stacked high like a rusty city. From concept to​ completion, discover Kingfish’s Lair, a bar within, where the worst of the worst​ hang out​.
  • Oh TOPO!​
    • The Tactical Observation and Pursuit Operative Octopus is a​ living legend and all-time fan favorite. Director James Wan and the filmmakers discuss​ the decision behind bringing TOPO back to the sequel and its promotion to​ Arthur’s on-screen sidekick.
  • Atlantean Blood Is Thicker Than Water
    • At its core, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is a movie about​ brotherhood. Explore how Patrick and Jason bonded over the new unexpected​ alliance between Arthur and Orm and came together both as characters and as​ friends on and off set​.

Further below, after the break, you can find the trailer and the official announcement about the upcoming home video releases of the film.

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Dream Scenario with Nicolas Cage on Blu-ray February

Commissions Earned

The 2023 film “Dream Scenario” is coming to Blu-ray Disc on February 27th via Lionsgate Home Entertainment, according to retailers.  The film, written & directed by Kristoffer Borgli, stars Nicolas Cage, Lily Bird, Julianne Nicholson, Jessica Clement, Tim Meadows, Dylan Baker, Kate Berlant, Dylan Gelula, and Michael Cera.  It’s certainly worth noting that this film is “Certified Fresh” over at Rotten Tomatoes.

You can now find the Blu-ray available for preorder over at Amazon.  The tech specs and bonus materials for the release have yet to be detailed but stay tuned for an update on that soon.  You can expect 1080p HD video in the original 1.85:1 aspect ratio as well as lossless surround sound, likely in a 5.1 configuration.  Below, after the break, you can find the trailer for the film.

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1979 film Over the Edge comes to Blu-ray in March

Commissions Earned

The 1979 film “Over the Edge” will be making its debut on Blu-ray Disc in North America on March 5th via Shout Select (Shout! Studios).  This release will be spine number 156 in the Shout Select series.  The film, directed by Jonathan Kaplan, starred Michael Eric Kramer, Pamela Ludwig, Matt Dillon, Vincent Spano, Harry Northup, Andy Romano, and Ellen Geer.

This comes from a “NEW 2K scan from the interpositive” according to the press release.  Tech specs for the release include a 1080p HD video presentation in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio and lossless Mono sound.  You can now find the Blu-ray available for preorder over at retailers Amazon and Walmart.  You can also order the Blu-ray directly from Shout! Studios.  The bonus materials set to be included with this release have just been announced and are listed below.

  • NEW “Watch Out For Children – Making Over The Edge” – Interview With Director Jonathan Kaplan
  • NEW “Coming Of Age – Writing Over The Edge” – Interview With Screenwriter Charlie Haas
  • NEW “My Father Told Me – Scoring Over The Edge” – Interview With Jonathan Kaplan About His Father, Composer Sol Kaplan
  • “Wide Streets + Narrow Minds” A 7-Part Retrospective Documentary
  • Audio Commentary With Director Jonathan Kaplan, Producer George Litto, And Writers Tim Hunter & Charlie Haas
  • Audio Commentary With Actor Michael Kramer And Journalist Mike Sacks
  • Isolated Music And Effects Track
  • “Destruction: Fun or Dumb?” – The Full Educational Video Excerpted Within The Film
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • German Theatrical Trailer
  • UK VHS Promo
  • TV Spots

The Color Purple musical on 4K and Blu-ray in March

Commissions Earned

The 2023 musical remake of “The Color Purple” is officially coming to 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray Disc on March 12th via Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. The film, produced by Oprah Winfrey, Quincy Jones, & Steven Spielberg, was directed by Blitz Bazawule and features a cast that includes Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, H.E.R., Halle Bailey, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Louis Gossett, Jr., David Alan Grier, Deon Cole, and Ciara. It’s certainly worth noting that this film is “Certified Fresh” over at Rotten Tomatoes

The tech specs for the 4K release include a 2160p video presentation in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio with Dolby Vision and HDR10 forms of high dynamic range and Dolby Atmos sound. The tech specs for the Blu-ray release include a 1080p HD video presentation in the same aspect ratio and also Dolby Atmos sound.  Both releases will include a digital code (copy) of the film. You can now find the 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray both available for preorder over at Amazon. You can also find the 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray available for preorder at Walmart as well via these links.  Bonus materials set to be included with the releases are listed below.

  • Creating The Color Purple: A Bold New Take on the Beloved Classic
    • Join the director, Blitz Bazawule, filmmakers and cast on their high-stakes, high intensity, heart-stopping, and awe-inspiring odyssey to bring Alice Walker’s beloved novel to life.
  • Hell Yes! The Iconic Characters of The Color Purple
    • The cast, producer Oprah Winfrey, and director Blitz Bazawule explore the characters – their personalities and intricate interpersonal dynamics, as well as their relatability and lasting impact – and how the actors connected and grew as performers.
  • In The Flow: Creating The Color Purple’s Biggest Musical Moments
    • Rehearsal footage reveals what it took director Blitz Bazawule, producer Scott Sanders, Quincy Jones, the cast, and the music team to push through the stumbles and missteps and hone all the rough edges to get each musical number exactly right.
  • A Story For Me: The Legacy of The Color Purple
    • The cast and filmmakers discuss the importance of Alice Walker’s novel – its timelessness and how it has touched so many, from book to landmark 1985 film to 2005 Broadway musical – and what it means for them to be a part of this bold new film.

Further below, after the break, you can find the trailer and details about the upcoming home video releases of this film.

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Disney film Wish comes to 4K and Blu-ray in March

Commissions Earned

The 2023 animated film “Wish” is officially coming to 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray Disc on March 12th via Disney.  The movie, directed by Chris Buck & Fawn Veerasunthorn, features a voice cast that includes Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk, Angelique Cabral, Victor Garber, Natasha Rothwell, Jennifer Kumiyama, Evan Peters, Harvey Guillén, Niko Vargas, Ramy Youssef, Jon Rudnitsky, and Della Saba.

The tech specs for the 4K UHD Blu-ray release include a 2160p video presentation in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio with HDR10 form of high dynamic range and Dolby Atmos sound.  Tech specs for the Blu-ray include a 1080p HD video presentation in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio and DTS-HD 7.1 Master Audio sound.  Both releases will come in the form of a “combo pack” with the 4K getting its Blu-ray counterpart, the Blu-ray getting its DVD counterpart, and a digital code (copy) of the film included with each.  You cannot yet find the 4K UHD Blu-ray or Blu-ray available for preorder at Amazon or Walmart.

UPDATE:  It’s certainly worth noting that there will be a 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook available as an exclusive at retailer Walmart (pictured below), which is now available for preorder.

Be on the lookout for updates on all of those preorders.  It’s starting to remain unclear if the 4K SteelBook will be the only 4K physical release of the film, to be honest with you all as an editor.  Stay tuned.

4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook (Walmart Exclusive)

The bonus materials set to be included with the releases are listed below.

  • Sing Along With The Movie
    Sing along with your favorite songs while watching the movie with on-screen lyrics.
  • Featurette: Once Upon A Studio
    Beloved characters from Disney Animation’s 100 years come together for an unforgettable reunion.
  • 100 Years In The Making– The Inside story on the making of Wish
    • What Makes Disney, Disney
      Learn what makes a Disney film and its characters so distinct, memorable and beloved. Discover how Asha and WISH are quintessentially Disney — from the extraordinary challenges Asha must overcome, to the magical, Kingdom of Rosa
    • The Wish Equation
      What is a wish? Join the filmmakers for a surprising conversation as they break down the “Wish Equation,” discuss the “rules of magic,” and describe the role music plays in Disney films. Then hear Julia Michaels’ own original demo of “This Wish.”
    • Looking Backward To Go Forward
      Walk the aisles of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library as the filmmakers “draw” inspiration from 100 years of animation. Learn about the “Pinocchio test,” and how Wish’s design blends new technology with classic techniques.
    • Where Dreams And Reality Collide
      Discover the times and places that were the inspiration for Rosas and helped build the world of this original fairy tale.
    • Asha Means Wish
      Learn all about Asha, from her inspired design to her boundless determination and generosity. Uncover the subtle symbolism in her jewelry, and dive into her dancing skills. See how she’s imperfectly perfect and what makes her a memorable Disney hero.
    • The Return Of The Disney Villain
      You’ll love to hate King Magnifico when you uncover his secrets. Find out what makes him the classic Disney villain — and why he doesn’t wear a crown.
    • Star Is Born
      Uncover early concept drawings to see how Star evolved into Asha’s lovable wish facilitator. Learn about Star’s sparkles, and why Star can communicate with Asha and the other characters.
    • Those Who Stand Beside Me
      Learn more about Asha’s closest allies, Dahlia and Valentino. Find out which of Snow White’s seven companions served as inspiration for Dahlia, and how Valentino breaks one of the rules of Disney animals.
    • When Wishes Come True
      Get to know the kids inside the filmmakers as the creators of WISH reflect on what Disney movies meant to them growing up, and what it’s like being part of the Disney legacy today.
  • Featurette: WISH D-Classified
    WISH is filled with references and nods to other Disney films from the studio’s 100-year legacy. From hidden Mickeys to more subtle tributes, you may have caught many of them, but check out this “D-Classified” piece for ones you may have missed.
  • Featurette: Outtakes
    Step inside the recording booth with the brilliant and talented actors of WISH for some creative fun as they bring their characters to life.
  • Featurette: Deleted Song “A Wish Worth Making”
    Directors Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn introduce this poignant song sung by Saba Sabino (voiced by Victor Garber) expressing what it’s like to be reunited with your one true wish.
  • Deleted Scenes – Check out some scenes that didn’t make the Final Cut.
    • Magnifico’s Secret
    • The Wishing Tree
    • To Rosas
    • Finding Flazino
    • Valentino Is A Star
  • Song Selection– Jump to your favorite musical moments, with on-screen lyrics.
    • At All Costs
    • This Wish
    • I’m A Star
    • This Is The Thanks I Get?!
    • Knowing What I Know Now
    • This Wish (Reprise)

Further below, after the break, you can find the home video trailer and the official announcement regarding the home video releases of the film.

Read more

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