The Dark Crystal (DVD)

darkcrystalIn the days before computer generated imagery (CGI) were used heavily in films, the use of puppets or in Jim Henson’s case, Muppets were one of the primary ways to bring fictional characters to life.

In 1982, Jim Henson released one of the most highly innovative movies of its time with the fantasy film The Dark Crystal. Although innovative and unique, the film did not fair very well at the box office primarily because E.T. the extra-terrestrial was released the same year and many parents were wary of the dark nature of Henson’s film.

Being just five years old during the actual theatrical release, most kids my age would have probably been afraid of the grotesque muppets in the movie, but instead of fear, I remember becoming instantly hooked to the film. It was one of the coolest things I had ever seen. I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw the evil Skeksis who looked like a bunch of old hunch backed vultures, to the details of the planet Thra, full of fascinating creatures and danger.

With the 25th Anniversary Edition released this month, I just had to get a copy. Digitally remastered, this film is packed with extras and commentary making it a worthwhile purchase for any fan of the movie. The younger generation may never fully appreciate this film because of the highly advanced movie making technology today, but for those of us who grew up in the 80′s, film’s such as these are timeless classics of joy.

Transformers (Theaters)

transformers_ver13Transformers was my favorite cartoon during my adolescence, and to finally see a live adaptation of it on the big screen was a dream come true for me. I had been eagerly anticipating its release since I read about its pre-production back in 2005.

The movie completely blew me away. I can honestly say that Transformers is the best cartoon to live action adaptation to date. I don’t know of another film of its genre that comes close. The film provided the perfect combination of comedy and action which was all rolled into one terrific nonstop thrill ride.

There were some film critics that said this movie lacked a good storyline. I say screw the critics! This is Transformers! If you want a long drawn out storyline, go and watch a love story or drama. This film was all about entertainment.

I thought Transformers provided enough of a plot to keep the the audience moving while focusing on what all the fans were in their seats to see. Autobots and Decepticons transforming and kicking some butt. The movie was full of it. From the beginning to end Bay made sure that we had our fill of transforming robots. The special effects in this film were cutting edge and I’m glad they did not try to cut corners in production. The robots interaction with the actors felt so seamless and realistic providing for some of the best fighting scenes I’ve watched in recent memory.

This is easily the summer blockbuster of 2007! Megan Fox was extremely hot and in the words of Optimus PrimeAutobots, ROLL OUT.

Synopsis:

Whereas the Earth is the home of a variety of organic-based lifeforms, the planet of Cybertron is the homeworld of a race of robots which have the ability to transform into other mechanisms, with each Transformer having its own unique disguise. The Transformers are divided into two separate camps: the good and just Autobots, who are led by Optimus Prime (whose disguise is a red 18-wheel semi truck); and the evil Decepticons, who are led by Megatron (who transforms into a gun; there’s a good deal of size-shifting involved with Megatron as well). With fuel supplies (called Energon Cubes) on Cybertron running low, both forces travel through space looking for a new source, which leads them to Earth, which from their perspective in rich in the minerals and chemicals they need. Disguising themselves as cars, airplanes, boats, etc. easily recognizable to humans, the Transformers engage in a secret war for control of Earth’s bountiful natural resources…

The only thing that was a bit disappointing was Bumblebee. He was my favorite autobot and he should have remained a Yellow Volkswagen. The Chevy was nice though. I also thought that Megatron should have been the supergun Starscream always held instead of the plane. ;)

Star Wars 30 Years=30 Covers

Wow, this is a pretty amazing collection. As a self proclaimed star wars geek, I just had to invite you all to check out these covers. I was born in ’77 the year Star Wars was first released so I always know what anniversary Star Wars is celebrating!

Empire magazine is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Star Wars with their biggest Force-related extravaganza yet.

To mark this very special event, Empire has embarked on its most ambitious issue ever. They are producing a whopping 30 exclusive covers to commemorate 30 years of Star Wars, showcasing a total of 30 great Star Wars characters.

Empire will be revealing a cover a day from today up until the magazine’s on sale date of May 24th — the eve of the official birthday of Star Wars. Make sure you check their site every day to see if your favorite character has made the cut plus look out for other special announcements about Empire’s tribute to the world’s greatest film franchise.

source: StarWars.com

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