Team Umizoomi: Umigames (a J!-ENT Children’s DVD Review)

For parents looking for an animated educational children’s DVD but one that deals with mathematics for pre-schoolers and kindergartners, definitely give “Team Umizoomi: Umigames” a try!   It’s one of the better looking children’s series airing on television and this latest DVD features four fun episodes as Team  Umizoomi takes part in the Umi Games plus games at the boardwalk, going to the circus and even trying to help their friend Bot around the city.  For parents, this children’s DVD is recommended!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. NICKELODEON, NICK JR., TEAM UMIZOOMI and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. TM, ® & Copyright © 2011 by Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Team Umizoomi: Umigames

DURATION: 4 Episodes (96 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Full Screen, Dolby Digital

COMPANY: Nickelodeon/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED

RELEASE DATE: June 5, 2012

Written by Soo Kim, Michael Smith, O. Kevin Strader, Brian L. Perkins, Jennifer Twomey, Jeff Borkin, Sascha Paladino, Clark Stubbs

Produced by Soo Kim, Michael Smith

Executive Producer: Jennifer Twomey

Co-Executive Producer: Soo Kim

Associate Producer: Max Goodman

Supervising Producer: Michael Smith

Coordinating Producer: Amy Steinberg

Edited by Dave Courter, Anthony V. Orkin, Morgan-William Turner

Series Production by Linda Beck, Bruce Knapp

Featuring the voices of:

Ethan Kempner as Geo

Donovan Patton as Bot

Sophia Fox/Madeleine Rose Yen as Milli

Calling all UmiFriends!  Join Team Umizoomi on four mighty math missions filled with exciting games. Help Milli, Geo and Bot win the Super Sports Trophy at the Umi Games.  You’ll also play carnival games, search for a missing stuffed bunny, and help Bot on crazy skates!

Can you help Milli, Geo and Bot win the Super Sports Trophy at the Umi Games?  Find out in the latest children’s DVD “Team Umizoomi: Umigames”.

In 2010, Nickelodeon unveiled their new educational and animated children’s TV series titled “Team Umizoomi” and now the series second DVD has been released.

“Journey to Numberland” features Milli, Geo and Bot as they use their math powers to save the day! Featuring three episodes that help children in number identification, shape matching, measurement and more!

For those not familiar with “Team Umizoomi”, it is a children’s series that helps with their decision making, identification and math, “Team Umizoomi” takes place in Umi City where Milli, Geo and Bot would help people solve their problems by going on adventures and utilizing their Mighty Math Powers to keep Umi City running smoothly.

Six-year-old Milli Umi is known for her math skills, patterns and measuring and can change her dress to any pattern by singing her song “Pattern Power”. Her 5-year-old brother Geo loves to ride his Super Skates but also has math abilities and knows his shapes and he wears a shape belt that can create anything shape-based while singing his song “Super Shapes”.

Together they team up with their 32-year-old robot “Bot” who loves to sing and dance and his Belly Belly Belly Screen is how Team Umizoomi are able to communicate with the real world and friends who are in need.

And now “Team Umizoomi: Umigames” is the latest in the Team Umizoomi series to be released on DVD!

Included on this “Team Umizoomi: Umigames” DVD are:

• The Umi Games – Team Umizoomi is playing in the Umi Games!  But they must take on various robotic athletes.  Can you help them win?
  
• Boardwalk Games – Team Umizoomi will play in various boardwalk games, help Team Umizoomi play them.
• Crazy Skates - Bot accidentally put on crazy skates and he doesn’t know how to stop them.  Can you help Team Umizoomi save Bot?
• Carnival – Team Umizoomi attends the carnival and watch the bird show.  Help Team Umizoomi, so they can enjoy the carnival.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Team Umizoomi: Journey to Numberland” is fully rendered in CG with occasional appearances by real life kids who interact with the team. The series is presented in full screen format and the DVD is presented in Dolby Digital English Stereo. There are no subtitles but Closed Captions are included.

The series is among the newer series on “Nick Jr.” and is vibrant with colors and for the most part, PQ is very good!  In fact, it’s probably the most detailed animated children’s show on television right now.

As for audio, dialogue is easily clear and had no problems with video or audio during my viewing of the four episodes.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Team Umizoomi: Umigaes” comes with no special features.

“Team Umizoomi” has been getting a lot of buzz by many parents due to its colorful and detailed presentation, its music and for an educational children’s animated series, math is the series’ biggest feature, which is wonderful for the younger children who are learning math for the first time!

And it’s about time that Nickelodeon showcased a newer educational series (which I have to say, looks very awesome in character design and detailed colorful art backgrounds) that focuses primarily on math but also helping children in making decisions with the choices presented to them in each episode.  So, children will learn about numbers, shapes, counting, patterns and more!

With the release of “Team Umizoomi: Umigames”, the episodes are pretty fun as the theme is pretty much about games and features the characters visiting various areas, such as the Umi Games, the Boardwalk, the circus and also going around the city.  But if anything, you get four fun, educational episodes that your children will absolutely love!

For the most part, your young children will love this entertaining and colorful series and parents who want to encourage their children in learning math… “Team Umizoomi: Umigames” is highly recommended!

 

G.I. Joe: Renegades – Season 1, Volume 1 (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

It’s an animation made for a new generation of G.I. Joe fans.  This time, members of the G.I. Joe team are fugitives and are wanted by the US Govt.  Featuring a re-imagining of popular G.I. Joe and Cobra characters and a series filled with action, I really enjoyed the writing and overall style of “G.I. Joe: Renegades”. If you are a Joe fan and are open to a newer series, definitely give this DVD a try!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Hasbro Studios. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: G.I. Joe: Renegades – Season 1, Volume 1

DURATION: 13 Episodes (+/- 5 Hours)

DVD INFO: Widescreen (1:78:1), Dolby Digital 5.1 and Dolby Digital Stereo 2.0

COMPANY: Hasbro/Shout! Factory

RATED: General Audiences

RELEASE DATE: June 5, 2012

Directed by Randy Myers, Kevin Altieri, Scott Bern, nathan Chew, Scooter Tidwell

Written by Henry Gilroy, Marty Isenberg, Greg Johnson, Greg Johnson, Stan Berkowitz, Eugene Son, Dean Stefan, Alexx Van Dyne

Executive Producer: Stephen Davis, Jeff Kline

Line Producer: Phil S. Crain

Consulting Producer Therese Trujillo

Music by Jeff Eden Fair, Starr Parodi

Starring:

Jason Marsden as Duke

Matthew Yang King as Tunnel Rat

Kevin Michael Richardson as Roadblock

Natalia Cigliuti as Scarlett

David Kaye as Narrator

Tatyana Yassukovich as Baroness

Charles Adler as Cobra Commander

Charlie Schlatter as Dr. Mindbender

Nika Futterman as Lady Jaye

Johnny Messner as Flint

Khary Payton as Ripcord

Andrew Kishino as Storm Shadow

Clancy Brown as Destro

Kim Mai Guest as Jinx

Danny Cooksey as Young Snake Eyes

Keone Young as Hard Master

Brian Bloom as Zartan

Lee Majors as General Abernathy

Andre Sogliuzzo as Major Bludd

Stephen Stanton as Tomax

Greg Ellis as Breaker

When a spy mission against Cobra Industries goes awry, a group of young G.I. JOE team members is forced to hit the road as fugitives. Now the team members — DUKE, SCARLETT, ROADBLOCK, TUNNEL RAT, RIPCORD, BREAKER and SNAKE EYES — must use their wits and elite training to prove their innocence to the world before being caught by the authorities, the COBRA organization or, worse yet, another elite military team called the Falcons.

With exciting, action-packed storytelling, spectacular animation, G.I. JOE Renegades, produced by Hasbro Studios, boasts an incredible voice cast, including Charlie Adler (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen), Lee Majors (Six Million Dollar Man), Clancy Brown (Shawshank Redemption), Jason Marsden (Batman: The Brave and the Bold), Johnny Messner (Tears of the Sun) and Kevin Michael Richardson (The Batman).

“G.I. Joe: Renegades” is the latest action series from Hasbro Studios.

And similar to their successful “Transformers” series which features the main characters in different storylines with each series release, Hasbro Studios follows a similar trend after the TV series “G.I. Joe: Sigma Six” and the more adult-themed series “G.I. Joe: Resolute”.

While G.I. Joe has been a successful toyline since 1964 with its 12 -inch figure lineup, it wasn’t until the “G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero” 3.75 action figures were released that many children would flock to the toys and purchase the action figures, vehicles and playsets, thanks in part to the Marvel Comics comic-book series and the animated series which would begin in 1985.

Possibly the most unique aspect of G.I. Joe, unlike it’s Hasbro counterpart with “Transformers and “Star Wars” is that, while those series continues to attract a demographic of all ages, “G.I. Joe” is one of the most unique series where its collectors are adults who grew up with the “G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero” toys from its 1982 release or its re-appearance in the ’90s.

And while those who grown up with the toyline have introduced it to their children, many adults continue to show their passion for the toys and the animated series on forums and even a convention dedicate to G.I. Joe fans.

And with the second live action movie, “G.I. Joe: Retaliation” about to make its release (including the toyline), what better time than to get the children acquainted with the series and also get excited for the movie by releasing “G.I. Joe: Renegades” on DVD.  Shout! Factory will be releasing the first half of episodes “G.I. Joe: Renegades: Season 1, Volume 1″ in June 2012.

“G.I. Joe: Renegades” is possibly the most unique G.I. Joe storyline so far.  Mainly because the series begins with the Cobra Industries being seen as the good guys, while a small group of military officers from The Falcons form “G.I. Joe” which is led by Lt. Shana “Scarlett” O’Hara (previous series had featured Duke as the main leader of the team) and when things go wrong with an explosion at Cobra Industries, G.I. Joe is blamed for it.

The group is now wanted by the government and are being pursued not only by Cobra Industries but also by the Falcons.  The series focuses on the group as they visit different areas while they are on the run and trying to clear their names.

Only 26-episodes were created in the series and season 1, volume 1 features the first 13 episodes.

G.I. Joe: Resolute focuses on the adventures of the following members:

• Duke (Sgt. Conrad Hauser) – A military officer who puts his teams safety first and is always willing to help people.  While Lt. Shana “Scarlett” O’Hara is the high ranking officer in charge of the group, because of his experience and many respect him, Duke is the team’s de facto leader.
• Snake Eyes – A ninja who has a mysterious connection with Scarlett.  He wears a mask and does not speak, due to the severe injuries he received after an altercation with ninja, Storm Shadow and a situation that happened in his past.
• Scarlett (Lt. Shana “Scarlett” O’Hara) – A military intelligence officer and the high ranking officer responsible for G.I. Joe.  She is excellent with computers and has a mysterious connection to Snake Eyes.  She was also trained by Snake Eyes.  She feels responsible for G.I. Joe becoming fugitives.
• Roadblock (Cpl. Marvin Hinton) – Known for his expertise in heavy artillery, he loves heavy metal and singing loud.
• Tunnel Rat (Private First Class Nicky Lee) – The team medic and EOD (bomb disposal) specialist.  Loves crawling in tunnels and sewers and is familiar with soil, insects and plants.  A Chinese-American who is very sarcastic.
• Ripcord (Private Wallace Weems) – Smart mouthed paratrooper who runs into major trouble in the first episode of the series.

Here is a brief spoiler-less summary of each episode of “G.I. Joe: Resolute – Season 1, Volume 1″:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 1 – The Descent, Part 1 – A new group consisting of military officers of the Falcons are on a mission and are known as G.I. Joe, their job…to investigate Cobra Pharmaceuticals.
• EPISODE 2 – The Descenet, Part 2 - After an explosion at Cobra Pharmaceuticals, the media has branded G.I. Joe as renegades and are now fugitives that must be captured.  Meanwhile, Flint, the leader of the Falcons is in charge of capturing G.I. Joe.
• EPISODE 3 – Rage – Tunnel Rat is kidnapped by Cobra Industries Scrap-Iron and is being used for testing on a suit made for James McCullen and M.A.R.S. Industries.
• EPISODE 4 – Dreadnoks Rising – G.I. Joe are now in a Kansas town where people are being terrorized by Zartan and the Dreadnoks.  The group try to help the locals.
• EPISODE 5 – The Package - The Baroness wants mercenary Major Bludd to assassinate a former Cobra employee, a man who goes by the name of “Breaker”.
• EPISODE 6 – Return of the Arashikage, Part 1 – The group stays at Snake Eyes dojo where they meet his first apprentice Jinx and learn about his connection to Storm Shadow.
• EPISODE 7 – Return of the Arashikage, Part 2- Snake Eyes and G.I. Joe go after Storm Shadow who has kidnapped Jinx.

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 8 – Busted - Duke is wrongfully imprisoned and G.I. Joe must break him out of prison.
• EPISODE 9 – The Enemy of My Enemy – The Joes infiltrate a Cobra stronghold, meanwhile Cobra unveils Cobra Commander and Destro.
• EPISODE 10 – Fire Fight – Cobra gives orders to Firefly to burn a resort town, meanwhile G.I. Joe and a firefighter named Barbecue try to stop him.
• EPISODE 11 – Homecoming, Part 1 – Duke’s family is being targeted by Cobra and we learn about the past between Duke and Flint.
• EPISODE 12 – Homecoming, Part 2 – With a few of the Joes captured by Flint, the remaining Joes have been branded “Springfield Four”.  Meanwhile, Storm Shadow returns.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“G.I. Joe: Renegades – Season 1, Volume 1″ is presented in anamorphic widescreen (1:78:1) and 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround and Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo.

I have to admit that I was not exactly captivated by the new look of G.I. Joe in “Renegades” as it was a major departure compared to the original and also “Sigma 6″ and “Renegades”.  In some way, it reminded me of a Japanese anime style used in the series “Hakkenden” but then I started to appreciate the look because it was different.  I figured with a storyline that was so different from any other storyline in the series, why not have a new look to differentiate it from other G.I. Joe lines and if that was case, the company succeeded.

The fact that “G.I. Joe: Renegades” has its own style, it’s starting to grown on me and love the fact there are many characters introduced but also seeing these new character designs for characters (both G.I. Joe and Cobra) that I grew up with and collected.  And I have to say that Hasbro also pulled off the animation to action figure very well (especially with the Storm Shadow action figure from “Renegades”).   Overall, video quality was good, but I do wish that Shout! Factory considered a Blu-ray release for “G.I. Joe: Renegades” as well.

As for the audio, I love the fact that “G.I. Joe: Renegades” utilizes the surround channels for the action sequences.  I didn’t really catch it before when the series aired on the Hub but obviously there was more dynamic range with the series on DVD and the audio sounds great!

SPECIAL FEATURES:

There are no special features on this DVD.

“G.I. Joe: Renegades”, a series for a new generation of G.I. Joe fans but also a series that is unique in the G.I. Joe universe as the storyline is outside of the American Hero canon, but yet paying homage to the original characters that older fans are familiar with.

While I know the look and style of the series will always be debated among G.I. Joe fans, especially older fans used to the original Sunbow series, I figured whether it was “Transformers” or “Star Wars”, there has been a look that went along with each series release and it’s a reality that G.I. Joe fans have to get used to. There will always be a new look for G.I. Joe with each television series release and it also supports the new toyline.

Part of the challenge that Hasbro has always had when it came to the look of G.I. Joe is that the hardcore fans want the remake of the original ’80s line using today’s newer technology, while trying to please these fans, they then release the toyline based on the animated series and it’s always debated online (ever since “Sigma 6″) between fans who like or dislike the new look.

With that being said, “G.I. Joe: Renegades” does utilize a different look that Joe fans will love or hate.  As much as I love G.I. Joe, I also realize that these animated series, while many adults watch them, Hasbro also needs to cater to a new generation of fans and I’m quite supportive of that.

I’m among those adults who still continues to collect G.I. Joes, but this time around, it’s a hobby that I share with my son.  I I have purchased the newer lines inspired from the animated series such as the “Sigma 6″ line, the “Resolute” line and also the “Renegades” line.

And with that being said, I’m always open for something new.  As much as I know there are G.I. Joe fans that want an extension of what they grew up with back in the ’80s and ’90s, I don’t know if we’ll ever that ever happening.  Things have changed so much with G.I. Joe that there is a need to bring in a new generation of audience, as well as toy collectors.

I enjoyed “Sigma 6″ but people felt it was too much like anime (which is interesting because the older ’80s Sunbow series was created in Japan) and the toyline was not the 3 3/4 that collectors were used to.  The “Resolute” line was a more adult version where characters die and while appreciated by fans, the timing of the animated release was right before live-action film and thus, “Resolute” was a quick transition and was never meant to be a long animated series to begin with.

So, “G.I. Joe: Renegades” is a new storyline not focusing on the past but using characters from the popular line and bringing them into a storyline that revolves around the G.I. Joe team being pursued by the U.S. Govt. and Cobra.  What I enjoyed about this series is the re-imagining of many characters, their new look to coincide with the series and this storyline with Cobra now part of society through it’s products, with G.I. Joe blamed for an explosion, you would never expect these guys of being the team “wanted” by the American government and also pursued by their fellow soldiers from the Falcon unit.

It’s an entertaining storyline and this first DVD release features the first half of the series and I look forward to the second half as Duke, Scarlett and the others try to show that Cobra is an evil organization and they are not guilty for the crimes that they are accused of.

Also, since the ’80s and early ’90s G.I. Joe animated cartoons, there really hasn’t been a series that tried to bring back characters from the past.  With Renegades, we have Flint and Mary J, Breaker, Law & Order, Steeler, Doc, Stalker, Tripwire, Barbecue  and even Major Bludd, Serpentor, Tomax and Xamot  appear in the first half of the series.  How cool is that!? And even more characters show up in the second half of the series and if anything, while a different storyline, at least Hasbro Studios have made the effort of bringing these characters back.

As much as I enjoyed the series, many including myself are wondering if there will be a second season. Internet reports say there will be, another said the series is done.  Unfortunately, unlike “Transformers” or “Star Wars” (which Hasbro is responsible for the toyline) in which different toylines, unfortunately with G.I. Joe, this is not the case.

Also, the “G.I. Joe: Renegades” is also facing a similar situation that “G.I. Joe: Resolute” had faced, and that is a second live action film (“G.I. Joe: Retribution”) being released and the “Renegades” toyline was either put on hold or ended completely as Hasbro focuses on the release of the movie-line figures.   So, is “Renegades” a series that is over?  Unfortunately, we won’t know until after this summer when the movie is over, to find out if Hasbro Studios has a new type of G.I. Joe series in the works or if “Renegades” is coming back or not.

And another possibly problem that the animated series had faced unlike the previous animated series which were seen on regular television, “G.I. Joe: Renegades” only aired on the digital/satellite channel, The Hub, and not everyone has access to it.

With that being said, I can only hope that older fans and newer fans will support all G.I. Joe animated releases.  “G.I. Joe: Renegades” is not the same series that many people grew up with back in the ’80s and ’90s but still, it’s a valiant effort for Hasbro Studios to continue the G.I. Joe line for a new generation, unlike myself and many others who had the comic books, animated series and toyline all at the same time.   And possibly the biggest difference is the price of toys today, G.I. Joes are nowhere near the price of what they were offered back in the ’80s or ’90s, or even 2009.   It’s a shame because the “Renegades” animates series not only was exciting for fans, the toys that coincided with the series was awesome and the Storm Shadow Renegades was one of the best G.I. Joe figures ever released.  So, for now… all I can only hope that with the many characters featured in the series, that Hasbro allows a second season to continue, so the toyline can continue as well.

As for parents, the series, for the most part, is safe.  These shows were on the Hub and there is a bit of violence as can expected (like the old series) with fighting and people shooting at each other. But nothing visually violent to the point where people are being killed and you see blood.  But parents may not want to show this to younger children who may enact what they see on television.

Overall, as a fan who grew up with the original series, comic books and 3 3/4 toyline, I welcome this new storyline but most of all, hoping that Hasbro can continue a series which a new generation of fans can watch and grow up with as well.

“G.I. Joe: Renegades – Season 1, Volume 1″ is recommended for past and present G.I. Joe fans!

 

The Secret World of Arrietty (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

I was captivated by the beauty of “The Secret World of Arrietty” and also found the story to delightful, lighthearted and enjoyable.   A more accessible, non-complex family film that once again, Studio Ghibli delivers!

Image courtesy of © 2012 GNDHDDTW. 2012 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: The Secret World of Arrietty

MOVIE RELEASE DATE: 2010

DURATION: 95 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition, English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio (48 kHz, 24-Bit), Japanese 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio Original Production Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Subtitles: English ESL, SDH, French

COMPANY: Studio Ghibli/Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

RATED: G

Release Date: May 22, 2012

Originally created by Mary Norton

Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi

Screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki, Keiko Niwa

Storyboard by Hiromasa Yonebayashi

Unit Director: Hiromasa Yonebayashi

Music by Cecile Corbel

Art Director: Noboru Yoshida, Youji Takeshige

Animation Director: Akihiko Yamashita, Megumi Kagawa

Sound Director: Hiroshi Kasamatsu

Producer: Toshio Suzuki

Production by Studio Ghibli

Featuring the following voice talent:

Mirai Shida/Bridgit Mendler as Arrietty

Ryunosuke Kamiki/David Henrie as Sho (Shawn)

Keiko Takeshita/Gracie Poletti as Sadako (Aunt Jessica)

Kirin Kiki/Carol Burnett as Haru (Hara)

Shinobu Ōtake/Amy Poehler as Homily (Arietty’s Mother)

Tomokazu Miura/Will Arnett as Pod (Arriety’s Father)

Tatsuya Fujiwara/Moises Arias as Spiller

Based on the acclaimed children’s book series “The Borrowers,” by Mary Norton, “The Secret World of Arrietty” is an imaginative tale of “little people” living furtively among us, and the unlikely friendship that forms when their hidden world is discovered. The heartwarming family adventure features beautiful, stylized animation and timeless themes of friendship, courage and determination.

In 2010, Studio Ghibli (the popular anime studio known for creating “Ponyo”, “Spirited Away”, “Princess Mononoke”, “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind”, “Castle in the Sky”, “My Neighbor Totoro”, “Kiki’s Delivery Service” to name few) released the film “The Secret World of Arriety”, a film adaptation of the popular children’s fantasy novel “The Borrowers” (1952) by English author Mary Norton.

The film broke records in Japan, surpassing it’s previous film “Ponyo”, opening on 1,522 theaters (a record for a Studio Ghibli film) and earn over $145 million in the box office.  The film is the 4th biggest earning anime film in Japan of all time and won “Animation of the Year” in 2011 at the 34th Japan Academy Prize.

“The Secret of Arriety” is a Studio Ghibli film directed by Hiromasa Yonebashi (“Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade”, “Ponyo”, “Spirited Away”, “Spriggan”) and a screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki (“Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind”, “Castle in the Sky”, “Howl’s Moving Castle”, “My Neighbor Totoro” to name a few) and Keiko Niwa (“Tales from the Earthsea”, “Ocean Waves”, “From Up on Poppy Hill”).

The US release would feature music and vocals by French singer and harper Cecile Corbel and would feature the voices of Disney Channel actress Bridgit Mendler (“Good Luck Charlie”, “Lemonade Mouth”), Amy Poehler (“Parks and Recreation”, “Saturday Night Live”), Will Arnett (“30 Rock”, “Arrested Development”), Carol Burnett (“The Carol Burnett Show”), David Henrie (“Wizards of Waverly Place”, “How I Met Your Mother”) and Moises Arias (“Hannah Montana”, “Astro Boy”).

“The Secret World of Arrietty” begins with a 12-year-old boy named Shawn (voiced by David Henrie), who has temporarily moved to his aunt Jessica’s (voiced by Gracie Poletti) home as he rests and waits to have heart surgery.  Meanwhile, as he stays at the home, he will be taken care of by the caretaker, Hara.

When he steps onto the lawn, he sees the family cat named Nina looking at something.  When Shawn goes to check, he sees a small girl hiding from him.

The young girl happens to be Arrietty (voiced by Bridgit Mendler), a 14-year-old borrower who was retrieving a plant to bring home to her mother, Homily (voiced by Amy Poehler). When her father Pod (voiced by Will Arnett) arrives from home, he tells the family that a new “being” (human) has moved into the house and Arriety tells her family that she had seen the boy when she was out.  But the parents warn her that the rule of a Borrower is that they must never be seen by a human and if they do, they must move away as humans curiosity can lead to trouble for them.

Because Arrietty has reached an age where she can now go on borrowing adventures with her father, her first mission is to retrieve a sugar cube and tissue paper.

And as Arrietty and her father go on a mission to retrieve those items, she does quite well, but while she is trying to get the tissue paper, Shawn who is laying down on his bed, looks directly at her and starts talking to her.  Shocked by this, Arrietty fails in her mission and now because Arrietty was seen by a human, her father warns her to not have communication with him ever again.

But feeling bad that she was seen by a human, what shocks her even more is that Shawn has stopped by to bring her the sugar cube that she had dropped.  As she tells her parents, her father begins to become concerned that because Shawn knows of their whereabouts, they will need to move.

Upset that Shawn has brought the sugar cube, she climbs up to Shawn’s room and tells him that she needs no help in “borrowing” and also tells him that they must stop communication.  But as the two talk, a crow tries to attack Arriety and she is saved by Shawn.

Meanwhile, the caretaker of the home, Hara hears the noises from Shawn’s room and attacks the crow.  When she asks him what prompted the crow to go to his room, he tells her that it must be building a nest but Hara suspects that perhaps Shawn has had contact with the little people and Hara would do anything to capture them.

VIDEO:

Magical, beautiful and everything that you can expect from Studio Ghibli. I was completely in awe when I watched “The Secret World of Arrietty”.  The painted backgrounds are so detailed, so beautiful to look at and of course, that Studio Ghibli style of character design.

In this day and age, we tend to put so much into CG animated films and whenever I watch a Studio Ghibli fan, I always find it amazing of how gorgeous their films are.  From the first animated film that I watched back in the early ’90s (which was “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind”) to the latest release of “The Secret World of Arrietty”, Studio Ghibli continues to show this creative style through this film. The hand painted backgrounds are absolutely beautiful, the character design continues that Studio Ghibli look and style that they are famous for and I was hypnotized, captivated and loving every minute of the film.

Presented in 1080p High Definition, detail can be seen on the painted backgrounds. Vibrant during the day scenes, amazingly detailed to the little kitchenware used by the Borrowers, its one thing I expected from Studio Ghibli and nothing less and once again, they have delivered.

There are no compression artifacts, edge enhancement, aliasing, banding or any problems in picture quality for “The Secret World of Arietty” whatsoever. This film looks absolutely magnificent on Blu-ray!

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“The Secret of World of Arrietty” is presented in English 5.1 DTS Master Audio (48 kHz/24-bit) and in Japanese and French 5.1 Dolby Digital.

First the good. As one can expect from the Japanese casting, the voice acting is fantastic and the English dub track is equally magnificent.

And you want an immersive soundscape? “The Secret World of Arrietty” delivers. From the ambiance of the home on top of the hills with nothing but nature, you can hear the birds chirping, the insects, Nina the cat growling, the breeze flowing through their, great use of directional sound.  Indoors, the same thing as the Borrowers, Arrietty and her father can hear the ticking of the clocks, the scurrying of the rats and its absolutely immersive.

While this film is not the type to use LFE, there are some moments that do use a bit of lower frequency sounds but for this animated film, dialogue and music is crystal clear and great use of the surround channels for ambiance.

The other positive is unlike “Ponyo” which Disney didn’t give the Japanese soundtrack a lossless audio soundtrack, with “The Secret World of Arrietty”, a Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is included.

As for the bad, there isn’t any.  Aside it not having as many action sequences compared to “Nausicaa”, “Spirited Away” and “Ponyo”, this is not one of those type of films.   But still, “The Secret World of Arrietty” sounds wonderful and fans should be pleased with the lossless soundtracks!

Subtitles are in English ESL, SDH and in French.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

If there was only one downer of this Blu-ray release, it is that”The Secret World of Arrietty” has very little special features.  Included are:

• Original Japanese Storyboards - Watch the entire film but this time with the video showcasing the original storyboards.
• Cecile Corbel’s “Arrietty’s Song” Music Video - The Japanese version of Cecile Corbel’s “Arriety’s Song”
• Bridgit Mendler’s “Summertime” Music Video – (3:01) Bridgit Mendler, voice actress of Arrietty in the US version, sings the film’s ending theme.
• The Making of “Summertime” – (2:02) The making of Bridgit Mendler’s music video.
• Trailers & TV Spots – The Japanese trailers and TV spots.

EXTRAS:

A DVD of “The Secret World of Arrietty” is included with this Blu-ray release. The DVD is in Widescreen (1:85:1) – Enhanced for 16×9 Televisions, English and French Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, with subtitles in English ESL, SDH and French.  A slipcover is included.

“The Secret World of Arrietty” is an enjoyable, delightful and non-complex film that is visually captivating and looks and sounds fantastic on Blu-ray!

While one of the things that people will notice is that the film has the Studio Ghibli quality in look and also in character interaction, this is a Hiromasa Yonebashi directed film and a film written by Hayao Miyazaki and Keiko Niwa.  It’s a film that is not complex, not about the environment, nor is it polemic film that is driving to drive a message to the viewer.  And is more accessible for younger viewers, compared to the more serious Studio Ghibli films such as “Spirited Away”, “Princess Mononoke”, “Grave of the Fireflies” or even “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind”.

But “The Secret World of Arrietty” is lighthearted and is pretty much on scale with other Studio Ghibli and Miyazaki films such as “Kiki’s Delivery Service”, “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Whispers of the Heart”.  Captivating and enjoyable films that is not entirely geared towards older viewers, a film that I can enjoy with my young son and other parents can watch with their families.  It’s essentially a family film and in some way, as a fan of Studio Ghibli films, I love the fact that the studio tends to change things up once in awhile.

I can understand if some people who prefer Studio Ghibli’s more epic storylines with a deeper message and I’m sure Studio Ghibli will continue to make those movies as they do with these lighthearted films, but with “The Secret World of Arrietty”, this is a film that I enjoyed because it’s touching, heartwarming and just overall delightful and no worries of complexity, it’s straight-forward and even my 9-year-old loved it!

And the Blu-ray is magnificent!  But not perfect.  Video and audio quality is fantastic, although this is not one of those action-intense films, the film makes up with its visual flair and ambiance.  The main low-point of this Blu-ray release is that there are not as many special features included.

Fortunately, this Blu-ray release comes with a DVD, so as summer vacation is around the corner, parents can use the DVD for those long commutes or something the children can watch during the summertime.

Overall, I was captivated by the beauty of “The Secret World of Arrietty” and also found the story to delightful, lighthearted and enjoyable.   A more accessible, non-complex family film that once again, Studio Ghibli delivers!

 

Bubble Guppies (a J!-ENT Children’s DVD Review)

Are you looking for a children’s DVD that is educational, fun but also helps promote school readiness?  “Bubble Guppies” is a newer Nickelodeon children’s educational TV series on DVD that will help your children with social skills, science, math, literacy and more!  Recommended for younger children entering pre-school or kindergarten!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Bubble Guppies

DURATION: 1 Movie + 2 Bonus Episodes (88 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Full Screen, Dolby Digital

COMPANY: Nickelodeon/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED

RELEASE DATE: April 24, 2012

Created by Jonny Belt and Robert Scull

Executive Producer: Jonny Belt, Robert Scull

Supervising Producer: Ellen Martin

Casting by Maria Estrada, Leslie Zaslower

Featuring the Voices of:

Zachary Gordon as Gil

Brianna Gentilella as Molly

Jelani Imani as Goby

Reyna Shaskan as Oona

Eamon Pirruccello as Nonny

Angelina Wahler as Deema

From meeting the Bubble Guppies for the first time to find his favorite Bubble Bite snacks to starring in a TV movie fairy tail, get to know the Guppies’ playful pet, Bubble Puppy!

Children love to sing and dance and a new children’s series on Nickelodeon have been catching the attention of young children.

The series is “Bubble Guppies” created by Jonny Belt and Robert Skull and features a group of mermaid pre-schoolers.  Similar to popular children’s series such as “Dora the Explorer” and “Blue’s Clues”, “Bubble Guppies” helps children with their social skills, science, math, literacy and more, as the pre-schoolers learn from their teacher (a fish named Mr. Grouper) and learn about stories in which the Bubble Guppies sing along too.

The series focuses on six kids, Molly and Gil (the main characters), Goby, Deema, Oona and Nonny who are taught by Mr. Grouper, an orange and yellow fish who tells the children a fairy tale.  Because the kids have a wild imagination, Mr. Grouper would tell a fairy tale in which the kids imagine themselves being part of.

With the release of the DVD “Bubble Guppies”, this brand new DVD features the film “Bubble Puppy’s Fantastic Fairy Tale!”, a TV movie in which Mr. Grouper tells the children a fairy tale about how a witch turns a Bubble Puppy into a frog and the children (Molly, Gil and friends) team up with famous fairy-tale friends in order to help everyone in the enchanted forest live happily ever after.

Also, included with this DVD are two bonus episodes featuring “Bubble Puppy”, as Gil wants to adopt a puppy but the Bubble Guppies must learn how to take care of a pet before bringing it home.  And the second episode is titled “Bubble Bites”, an episode about Gil wanting to buy Bubble Puppy some Bubble Bites but with one last box left at the store, Gil and Ms. Pinkytoe compete in a Bubble Bites biathlon.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Bubble Guppies” is presented in full screen, Dolby Digital English Stereo.  The series is created in 3D, while not as detailed when compared to Nickelodeon’s “Team Umizoomi” series, the series is still child-friendly as the characters are presented in an easy to watch, cute kid format as the children have big eyes and are often traveling in adventures.  It’s a colorful series that I’m sure children will love.  As for audio, audio is clear and understandable.  And with the many music tracks featured throughout the film and series, your young child will no doubt be dancing with the many musical tunes featured.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Bubble Guppies” comes with the following special features:

• Karaoke Music Videos – Featuring “Fairy Tale Pop Song” and “I’m So Mean”
• “Where’s Bubble Puppy?” Game
• Song Selection – Featuring the music (eight total songs) from the film.

“Bubble Guppies” is another wonderful entry for younger children and parents who are looking for an educational children’s DVD for their kids.  The series is targeted for both boys and girls and similar to “Dora the Explorer”, the series allows children to make decisions, improve their social skills, science, math and literacy.  And of course, the series features a lot of music.

If anything, this is a series that will appeal to children and for parents who want something new and different from the older and longer-running series featured on Nickelodeon.  I feel the series is also much more accessible because it features children in a school setting, having friends and of course, children of different ethnicities.  So, for parents trying to ease their children into pre-school or kindergarten, “Bubble Guppies” is a series that can do just that.

Overall, “Bubble Guppies” is fun and educational children’s series that parents will definitely want to look into for children around 3-5 years old.  This DVD features a film and two bonus episodes and I recommend it for your young children!

 

Pokémon the Movie 14: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

The 14th Pokémon film “Pokémon the Movie: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom” on DVD features two films, same plot but a different take on the featured legendary Pokémon.  A heartwarming family film full of action and fun that Pokémon fans of all ages will enjoy.  Definitely recommended!

DVD TITLE: Pokémon the Movie 14: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom

FILM RELEASE DATE: 2011

DURATION: 95 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Dolby Digital, English Stereo

COMPANY: Viz Media

RATED: A for All Ages

RELEASE DATE: April 3, 2012

Directed by Kunihiko Yuyama

Screenplay by Hideki Sonoda

Music by Shinji Miyazaki

Original Concept by Junichi Masuda, Ken Sugimori, Satoshi Tajiri

Character Design: Toshiya Yamada

Sound Director: Masafumi Mima

Director of Photography: Hisao Shirai

Executive Producer: Masakazu Kubo

Producer: Shigehiro Tanaka, Takemoto Mori

Anime Production: Oriental Light and Magic

Featuring the following voice talent:

Eileen Stevens as Iris

Ikue Ohtani as Pikachu

Jason Griffith as Cilan

Sarah Natochenny as Ash Ketchum

Nana Mizuki as Victini

Jimmy Zoppi as James, Meowth

Michele Knotz as Jessie

Rodger Parsons as Narrator

Alyson Leigh Rosenfield as Audino and Nurse Joy

Bill Rogers as Panpour, Pansear

Billy Bob Thompson as Burgh, Luke

Brittney Lee Hamilton as Georgia

Dan Green as Pierce

Darren Dunstan as Stephan

A Hero must choose: the Power of Ideals… or the Courage of Truth?

When Ash and his friends enter a battle competition in Eindoak Town, they meet the Mythical Pokemon Victini, who becomes their newest friend. But disaster strikes when the misguided wanderer Damon seizes Victini for his own plans! Can Ash prove himself a hero and earn the help of the Legendary Reshiram – or Zekrom – to rescue Victini and save Eindoak Town?

Two legends… and two versions of the story!

For those who are fans of “Pokémon”, especially when it comes to the video games, there are always simultaneous releases of the games.  While they appear similar in gameplay, there are often a change in Pokemon or setting.  But what if they treated the films the same way?

In July 2011, children and fans of “Pokémon” were treated to two different versions of the 14th “Pokémon” film.  One titled “Pokémon the Movie: Black – Victini and Reshiram” and the other “Pokémon the Movie: White – Victini and Zekrom”.  The plot of both film are the same, the major difference is one would focus more on the legendary dragon Pokémon, Reshiram or Zekrom.

While the film was a major success in the box office in Japan, in America, both films received a limited 2- day theatrical release in select theaters in December 2011 and it would be the first Pokémon animated film release since the 2002 film “Pokémon Heroes: The Movie”.  “Pokémon the Movie: White – Victini and Zekrom” would later air on the Cartoon Network in February 2012.

And now, both films will be released in a 2-DVD courtesy of Viz Media.

“Pokémon the Movie: Black – Victini and Reshiram” and “Pokemon the Movie: White – Victini and Zekrom” begin with either Reshiram or Zekrom, but the story begins with a man named Damon who had to save the village and called upon Reshiram or Zekrom (depending which version of the film was being viewed).

Meanwhile, Ash Ketchum and his friends Iris and Cilan arrive at the town of Eindoak Town.  The three spot two Deerling who are in danger of falling off a cliff and Ash goes to rescue both of them.  But while rescuing the two, Ash touches Victini and instead of falling off the cliff, somehow Ash was able to jump off the cliff to the other side, saving the Deerling.

Ash enters a cave and ends up inside the cellar of the town’s castle, the Sword of the Vale. And as Cilan provides Macaroons for Ash and Iris, unbeknown to Ash is that a hungry Victini is hiding and wanting some to eat as well.  And thus, taking his macaroons when he isn’t watching.

The group are escorted by Damon who brings them to the town’s festival and they meet Damon’s sister Carlita (who challenges Ash in a Pokemon battle) and their mother Juanita.  Meanwhile, the town sells merchandise of a legendary Pokémon known as Victini, but no one believes Victini exists anymore.   The trio are explained by Mayor Mannes that Victini is important tot he town as the legendary Pokemon once belonged to the king of the Kingdom of the Veil.  The kingdom was empowered by the Dragon Force, which brought harmony to the world.

But as the king’s sons were both bestowed each with Reshiram and Zekrom, the princes became enemies and thus a war took place between both sides, also pitting Reshiram and Zekrom against each other.  Both were wounded in combat and both legendary dragon Pokemon turned to stone in order to heal during a long sleep.

But the Dragon Force became unstable and destructive, so the king used the power of Victini to move the castle to its current spot in order to contain the Dragon Force energy and create a barrier.  Unfortunately, the King sacrificed his life and Victini was sealed inside the barrier to be protected.

And for Damon, his dream was to restore the dead kingdom’s valley using Victini’s powers and reunite the scattered People of the Veil, as it was his mother’s wish.  But while Victini has never been seen, Damon and Mayor Mannes have found one of the dragon Pokemon beneath the castle.

During a friendly battle between Ash and Carlita, somehow Ash is able to pull off some intriguing moves and Carlita wonders if Victini is actually helping Ash and sure enough, she sees Victini helping Ash’s Pokemon.

And eventually Ash and friends discover that Victini has been with them all that time and was responsible for eating the Macaroons and giving Ash and his Pokémon some of his power.  But Ash starts to learn that Victini has been all alone for hundreds of years and his dream is to go to the ocean, but unfortunately he is trapped due to the barrier.

So, Ash makes a promise to Victini that he will help it get to the ocean, but Damon also has his plans with Victini to use his power to restore the dead kingdom’s valley…but what Damon doesn’t know is that by doing so, it will once again unleash the destructive and unstable power of the Dragon Force.

Now it’s a race against time as Ash and friends must stop Damon from causing harm to Victini and the entire town.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Pokémon the Movie 14: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom” definitely improves in overall animation and CG with the latest film.   With each newer film, there is much better detail in the paintings and better use of CG.

If anything, more detail and vibrant colors, compared to the previous two Pokemon films, considering those the last two films, “Pokémon Movie 12: Arceus and the Jewel of Life and “Pokémon Movie 13: Zoroark – Master of Illusions” look fantastic.

Of course, with this being DVD, you are going to see mild artifacts and some banding but nothing to bothersome and I doubt the children will even care. It’s a beautiful looking film!

As for the audio, the audio is presented in 2.0 and 5.1 Dolby Digital. Dialogue is clear and understandable, special effects sound very good coming through the center and front channels. I don’t really recall hearing the surround channels being utilized all that much but for the most part, dialogue and music are quite clear.  It’s important to note that only the English dub is featured and the Japanese soundtrack is not included.

Subtitles are available in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Pokémon the Movie 14: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom” comes with trailer for both films.

As a father who has grown up with a child who enjoys “Pokémon” and having been in Japan during the time of the Pokemon merchandise explosion, it’s always intriguing for me to see how “Pokémon” remains innovative and how it manages to attract the attention of a new generation of young (and older) fans for over a decade.

And with the release of both “Pokémon” films, it’s another way to attract viewers to the films as “Pokémon Black/White” have done for those who purchased the Nintendo DS video game.  And considering the film made over $53 million in the box office, it goes to show that “Pokémon” is not slowing down any time soon and the momentum and excitement continues to thrive as it did many years ago.

While both films have the same story, the key difference is how it integrates Reshiram or Zekrom to the film.  Especially the activity of the character of Damon in trying to revive a world that is no longer there.  With that being said, for me, I enjoyed “Pokémon the Movie: Black – Victini and Reshiram” as it appeared to have a slightly different back story which I enjoyed more.  Once again, they are the same storyline, same ending but it’s different in terms of how Reshiram and Zekrom are incorporated into the film.

But what I enjoyed about the overall storyline is the character of Victini, definitely unlike other Pokemon who are great fighting Pokemon, if anything…Victini is just overall cute.  And it’s just fun to see how fun this Pokémon can be, may it be eating macaroons or helping Ash and his Pokemon.  But there is also an emotional side to this film as Victini was tragically left behind by its owner and he is stuck in town due to a barrier and you realize how lonely Victini has been all this time.  And you root for Ash and friends to help Victini, but at the same time knowing that Damon needs Victini in order to revive the town, and unfortunately it’s an ambition that can not only harm Victini but also the people that Damon wants to help.

As for parents who are considering buying this DVD for their child, there is really nothing violent about the storyline, while some younger children may find one scene where it looks like Ash got badly hurt (don’t worry, he was just exhausted).

As mentioned in the video quality section, the film looks absolutely vibrant and fantastic! I would not be surprised if “Pokémon the Movie 14: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom” someday receives a Blu-ray release because it looks so good… but as for the DVD itself, it does have its share of artifacts (as expected from a DVD) but nothing to disrupt viewing and for the most part, for the audience its intended for, I doubt they would even care. But this is the most beautiful Pokémon film by far and each year, the look of the films just continue to get better and better.

Overall, if you or your child (or if you are an adult fan) loves the Pokémon series whether on TV series, collectors cards or video games, I definitely recommend Pokémon the Movie 14: Black – Victini & Reshiram / White – Victini & Zekrom”.  You get both films in one release and for the most part, it’s a heartwarming family film worth watching and owning if you are a fan of “Pokémon”.

Definitely recommended!

 

Yo Gabba Gabba!: Super Spies (a J!-ENT Children’s DVD Review)

Looking for a fun and educational DVD for your children? Definitely give “Yo Gabba Gabba!: Super Spies” a try!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. NICKELODEON, NICK JR., and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. TM & © 2011 GabbaCaDabra LLC.

DVD TITLE: Yo Gabba Gabba!: Super Spies

DURATION: 4 Episodes (96 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Full Screen, Dolby Digital – English Stereo

COMPANY: Nickelodeon/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED

RELEASE DATE: April 17, 2012

Created by Christian Jacobs, Scott Schultz

Written by Scott Schultz, Christian Jacobs and Dan Clark

Executive Producer: Charles Rivkin, Nathan Berrett, Christian Demke, Jon Berrett

Producer: Justin Lyon

Irene Oncley as Line Producer

Ritamarie Peruggi as Supervising Producer

Samson Madsen as Associate Producer

Music by Scott Bucsis

Cinematography by Jay Lafayette

Edited by Jason deVilliers, Matthew Fackrell, Nathan Fackrell

Production Design by Bryan L. Anderton, Chris McDaniel

Featuring the voices of:

Biz Markie as himself

Lance Robertson as DJ Lance Rock

Erin Pearce as Brobee

Amos Watene as Brobee

David Crespin as Muno

Adam Diebert as Muno

Josh Baily as Muno

Christian Jacobs as Plex

Emma Jacobs as Foofa

Lindsey Kraus as Plex

Charme Morales as Toodee

Melissa Rossiter as Toodee

Mark Mothersbaugh as Himself

Featuring episodes with spies, mystery, outer space and much more with “Yo Gabba Gabba!: Super Spies”m the latest children’s DVD courtesy of Nickelodeon.

In 2007, Nick Jr. and Noggin began airing the children’s TV show titled “Yo Gabba Gabba! created by Christian Jacobs (lead vocalist of the Aquabatas), Christian Jacobs and Scott Schultz. The series has quickly become one of the more popular children’s show on television and even was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for “Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design/Styling”.

The show revolves around a character named DJ Lance Rock and his costumed character friends Muno (red and clumsy cyclops), Foofa (pink character with flower) , Brobee (an emotional, short green monster), Toodee (blue arctic cat dragon) and Plex (the smart robot) that come out of his boom box and come to life when he takes them out.

While DJ Lance Rock oversees his friends in their small kingdom, the characters learn an important lesson with each episode and everyone participates in a musical song and during each break is a short sketch or animation. And each episode is known to have a special celebrity guest.

“Yo Gabba Gabba!” is an educational children’s show teaching children right from wrong, team work and more.

The episodes featured on this DVD are:

• Super Spies – A bad spy named Bateman steals Gabba Land’s balloon art and now the group has to recover the artwork.
• Mystery (EPISODE 38) – Foof has disappeared! Toodee and Plex go on a search to find Foofa. Featuring Ladytron.
• Space (EPISODE 39) – DJ Lance Rock and friends go to outerspace to since with the stars and aliens. Featuring Electrocute.
• Big (EPISODE 37) – Feeling frustrated that he is the youngest person i the group, what happens when Brobee accidentally switches places with DJ Lance?  Featuring Jem & the Yo Dazzlers.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Yo Gabba Gabba!” is a series featured in full screen and a series shot indoors and is not animated but characters in costume and some skits are animated. The show features plenty of colors and characters that children will easily gravitate too. Audio is presented in English Dolby Digital Stereo.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Yo Gabba Gabba!” does not come with any special features.

“Yo Gabba Gabba!” is a fun children’s series that can help children with their decision skills but also teaching them about team work and also singing and dancing along to music.

While every “Yo Gabba Gabba!” episode does have its fair share of music and singing, this DVD focuses on mystery.  “Super Spies” deals with teamwork as the team try to recover stolen artwork, “Mystery” features teamwork as Toode and Plex must find Foofa, “Space” is about space exploration and “Big” features a storyline of why being young isn’t so bad.

In some ways, “Yo Gabba Gabba!” is similar to “Blues Clues” in which the host DJ Lance Rock looks towards the audience to help out the Gabbaland group, similar to “Backyardigans”, “Dora the Explorer” and “Go Diego Go!” in that the characters go on adventures and similar to “Sesame Street” in that a musical guest can be seen performing a song and you get various non-Gabbaland segments (animated or musical-based).

If there was one thing that I am a bit critical about Nickelodeon DVD’s thus far is that I wish there were more special features (in this case, there are no special features on this DVD at all), possibly DVD-rom content or games but other than that, you do get four episodes and the DVD’s are typically sold at a low price, so they are very affordable and very good, safe, educational children’s episodes.

If you are a parent looking for a fun, educational DVD for the children,  I definitely recommend “Yo Gabba Gabba!: Super Spies”.

 

The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinity Gauntlet – Season 2, Volume 3 (a J!-ENT Children’s DVD Review)

For the children and the young at heart, “The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinity Gauntlet -  Season 2, Volume 3″ features seven hilarious and action-packed episodes as the squad is split up and sent to various portals to take on other enemies and meet other Marvel heroes/villains.  Fun, crazy and cool!  “The Super Hero Squad Show” is definitely recommended!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Marvel. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinity Gauntlet

DURATION: 150 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: 16×9, Dolby Digital 2.0, Closed Captions

COMPANY: Shout! Factory

RATED: N/A

RELEASE DATE: April 17, 2012

Directed by Michael Gerard, Mitch Schauer, Patty Shinagawa

Written by Eugene Son, Matt Wayne, Mark Hoffmeier, Nicole Dubuc, Stan Berkowtiz, Charlotte Fullerton, James Krieg, John Rozum and Michael Ryan

Supervising Producer/Producer: Cort Lane

Music by Guy Michelmore

Edited by Dan Gutman

Casting by Jamie Simone

Featuring the voices of:

Tom Kenny as Iron Man

David Boat as Thor

Steve Blum as Wolverine

Travis Wilingham as Hulk

Charles Adler as Dr. Doom

Alimi Ballard as Falcon

Mikey Kelly as Silver Surfer

Grey DeLisle as Ms. Marvel

Tara Strong as Scarlet Witch

With Galactus defeated and Dr. Doom moping behind bars, Super Hero City is finally safe — that is, until Thanos goes in search of the powerful Infinity Gauntlet! Although they are without their comrade-in-laughter, Silver Surfer, the Super Hero Squad — Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Wolverine and Falcon — must once again come together to take on any villain that threatens the peace and safety of the Marvel universe . . . no matter where it might take them!

With the popularity of Hasbro’s “Marvel Super Hero Squad” action figure line (featuring the popular Marvel superheroes in super-deformed style), an animated series was created as a comedic parody of the Marvel characters and various storylines that were popular in the comic book series.

Created for children, “The Super Hero Squad Show” debuted on the Cartoon Network in 2009 with the second season “The Infinity Gauntlet” airing on television in 2010-2011.

And now, the third volume of the second season will be available on DVD courtesy of Shout! Factory.  The second season features special guest voice talents Michael Dorn (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”), Mark Hamill (“Star Wars”), Katee Sackhoff (“Battlestar Galactica”) and George Takei (“Star Trek”).

In the second season of “The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinite Gauntlet”, Thanos has taken the six infinity stones from Adam Warlock and now with this amazing power, can rule the world.   As Dr. Doom and other villains including our heroes of the Super Hero Squad trying to beat Thanos to no avail., Thanos’s ego takes over and leaves him open to being outwitted by the Silver Surfer.

As the Silver Surfer is able to take away the Infinity stones/glove from Thanos, after slipping on the powerful glove, unfortunately the power transforms the Silver Surfer into the Dark Surfer and he becomes the villain.

And now, the Dark Surfer has sent Iron Man, the Hulk, Thor, Wolverine, Falcon and the Scarlet Witch into alternate dimensions and must take on new opponents of that world.

“The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinity Gauntlet -  Season 2, Volume 3″ on DVD includes the following episodes:

• EPISODE 40: Fates of Destiny! – Thanos completes his collection of the Infinity Stones but is outwitted by the Silver Surfer.
• EPISODE 41: The Ballad of Beta Bill!  - Thor is sent into a portal by the Dark Surfer and meets with a Korbonite janitor named Beta Ray Bill.
  
• EPISODE 42: Days, Nights and Weekends of Future Past! – Falcon and H.E.R.B.I.E. are sent to an alternate reality where the Scarlet Witch is an evil emperor.
• EPISODE 43: This Man-Thing! This Monster! – Iron Man is sent into a portal and is stranded in a world of monsters and meets Man-Thing and Werewolf by Night.
• EPISODE 44: The Devil Dinosaur You Say!- Wolverine is sent into the portal by Dark Surfer and is in a land of dinosaurs and encounters the High Evolutionary.
• EPISODE 45: Planet Hulk! – The Hulk is thrown into a portal and ends up on Sakaar and is captured by the Red King and must fight in gladiator games.
• EPISODE 46: 1602! – After being thrown into a portal by Dark Surfer, the Scarlet Witch ends up in Marvel 1602 universe.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinity Gauntlet -  Season 2, Volume 3″ is a vibrant series in which the characters are presented in super-deformed format (shrunken down characters) and based on the popular Hasbro toy series.  The character designs and the animation style is so unlike any other animated series in America that it’s not only refreshing but it’s also quite intriguing and fun.

The animation is well done and the series looks very good on DVD.   This is one of those children’s animated series that even adults would wish it was on Blu-ray because it looks so good.  The art backgrounds are wonderfully painted, characters are well-shaded and it’s just a colorful, vibrant animated series.

Audio is presented in Dolby Digital and there are closed-captions included.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

There are no special features.

There is no denying that there is a charm to watching Marvel characters in super-deformed format.

Popular in Japan and are typically hilarious takes on characters, the creators of “The Super Hero Squad Show” really go all out in making a child-friendly animated series that even adults can watch and laugh at.   Every morning, my son would watch “The Super Hero Squad Show” and noticed that his cousin is often playing the video game on the PC, so I can imagine the allure to this series.  It’s unlike the other Marvel animated series which are action-packed but “The Super Hero Squad” tends to mix in action along with plenty of comedic humor.

As a long time Marvel fan, you can’t help but laugh at the situations that the characters are in.

For example, when Dr. Doom is unable to get his way and get the Infinity jewels from Thanos, he starts throwing a tantrum.  Another situation is when Captain America goes to Doc Samson for a psychiatric visit and the tables are turned and Captain America ends up listening to Doc Samson’s problems.  Another features hero Beta Ray Bill as a janitor.  Or when Thanos twists Wolverine and Iron Man into spaghetti and Wolverine complains about his foot being in an area, only to be told by Iron Man that it was his own foot and then seeing this twisted up Wolverine.  You just don’t see a tough hero like Wolverine in such a position and that’s what makes this series so interesting, the freedom the writers have to explore and have fun.

And for this season, the thought of Silver Surfer as this dark, maniacal villain is rather interesting.

But for fans of the series, part of the enjoyment is seeing so many Marvel characters in an episode outside of the main characters of the Super Hero Squad.    In this latest volume alone, you see Beta Ray Bill, the Stranger, Captain America, Man-Thing, Werewolf by Night, Dracula, The Living Mummy, Doc Samson, Ellen, Moon-Boy, Devil Dinosaur, High Evolutionary, Adam Warlock Red King, Korg to name a few.

Overall, “The Super Hero Squad Show” is an entertaining children’s animated series that children and also the young at heart will enjoy.  It’s a fun series full of humor and action and if your child enjoys this series, I can easily recommend “The Super Hero Squad Show: The Infinity Gauntlet -  Season 2, Volume 3″!

 

The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride – Special Edition (a J!-ENT Children’s Blu-ray Disc Review)

If you were a big fan of the “The Lion King”, the sequel “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” continues the storyline with your favorite characters but also a passing of torch as we are introduced to Simba’s daughter Kiara.  A fun family film that looks and sounds even better on Blu-ray!

Image courtesy of © Disney. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: The Lion King 2: Special Edition

FILM YEAR OF RELEASE: 1998

DURATION: 76 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (1:78:1), English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio,French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish Subtitles

COMPANY: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

RATED: G (for General Audiences)

Release Date: March 6, 2012

Directed by Darrell Rooney, Rob LaDuca

Screenplay by Flip Kobler, Cindy Marcus

Produced by Jeannine Roussel

Music by Nick Glennie-Smith

Edited by Peter Lonsdale

Art Direction by Fred Warter

Featuring the following voice talent:

Matthew Broderick as Simba

Neve Campbell as Kiara

Jason Marsden as Kovu

Suzanne Pleshette as Zira

Andy Dick as Nuka

Robert Guillaume as Rafiki

James Earl Jones as Mufasa

Moira Kelly as Nala

Nathan Lane as Timon

Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa

Lacey Chabert as Young Vitani

Cam Clarke as Simba (singing voice)

Edward Hibbert as Zazu

Michelle Horn as Young Kiara

Ryan O’Donahue as Young Kovu

The king of animated films reigns in this final chapter of The Lion King trilogy, now breathtakingly beautiful for the first time in a 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack! Experience the power of “Upendi”—which means “love”— as Kiara, Simba’s strong-willed daughter, seeks adventure away from her father’s watchful gaze. Timon and Pumbaa can do only so much to protect her, especially when she encounters an intriguing rival, Kovu, a cub who is being groomed to lead Scar’s pride.

Disney has had many successes since Walt Disney created the popular animation studio back in 1923.

With the success of their live action films and their PIXAR 3D animated films, still to this day, “The Lion King”, the 32nd film in the Walt Disney Animated Classics remains as the most successful animated film for the legendary company earning over $862 million in the box office (created with a budget of $45 million) and in terms of overall animation, it’s the fifth highest grossing animated film of all time and the #1 highest grossing film when it comes to hand-drawn animation.

The film earned two Academy awards plus a Golden Globe for “Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy” and is the #4 animated film on the American Film Institute’s “10 Top 10″ list.

“The Lion King” made its debut on Blu-ray (2-disc) courtesy of a Diamond Edition on Oct. 4, 2011, as well as a 3D Blu-ray (4-Disc) and also an 8-disc “The Lion King” trilogy box set which included both direct-to-video films “The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride” and “The Lion King 1 1/2″.

And now in March 2012, both films will be released on Blu-ray separately.

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” is the 1998 direct-to-video sequel to “The Lion King” and begins with the announcement to all the animals in Pride Land of the birth of Kiara, the daughter of Simba and Nala.

We then see how Nala grows older and becomes more curious about life outside the Pride Lands and overprotective towards his daughter, Simba has Timon and Pumbaa watch over and make sure she doesn’t enter the “Outlands”.  But Nala manages to escape from Timon and Pumbaa and meets another young lion named Kovu (who has a resemblance to Scar).

The two start to tease each other and have fun but immediately, their fun is halted when Zira (the wife of Scar) comes.  But immediately, Simba and a group of lioness from the Pride Lands are there and as Simba tries to get his daughter, he reminds Zira and her pack that they are exiled from the Pride Lands and they should not be in their area.  She tries to argue that they have hardly any food but Simba refuses to listen, and thus Zira’s thirst for revenge toward Simba for Scar’s death (note: events from the first film).

We learn that Kovu was hand picked to be Scar’s successor and since he was young, he has been trained to hate Simba.  But seeing how Kovu has developed a friendship with Simba’s daughter Nala, this may be the opportunity her pack needs for revenge.

The story then progresses years later when Kiara is now an adult and she is on her first solo hunt.  When Nuka and Vitani (Scar’s children) tries to trap Nala in a fire, Kovu rescues Kiara from danger.

Despite not wanting anything related to Scar back into the Pride Lands, he is indebted to Kovu for saving his daughter and thus, Kovu is allowed into the Pride Lands.  But while Kovu is allowed into the Pride Lands, Simba is bothered with nightmares of his father dying but also Kovu betraying him and leading him to his own demise.

And immediately, Kovu starts to learn from Nala about having fun but also learning about “love”, something he never knew about in the Outlands.  Meanwhile, and Nuka and Vitani are spying on Kovu and seeing if he will attack Simba, he doesn’t and this begins to cause concern for Zira.

Seeing overtime how Kovu treats Kiara with kindness and love, he begins to soften up to Kovu.  And the day he decides to let Kovu into his life (after the two take a long walk), Zira and her pack surround Kovu.  She thanks Kovu for trapping Simba and Simba feels that Kovu has betrayed him and his family.  Kovu tries to explain that he has nothing to do with it but it’s too late as the pack begin their attack on Simba.

Will Simba live through the ordeal?  What will happen to Kovu and his relationship with Kiara?  Find out by watching “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride”.

VIDEO:

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” is presented in 1080p High Defiition (1:78:1) and this 1998 direct-to-video sequel holds up well in 2012.

Each time I have watched a Disney animated classic on Blu-ray, suffice to say, there are no disappointments. Each release has been spectacular when it comes to picture quality and with the Blu-ray release of “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride”, we are in somewhat different territory.  Where the original “The Lion King” was a film (and had a much higher budget and more people assigned to the film), the film looked incredible on Blu-ray and the third direct-to-video film, “The Lion King 1 1/2″ benefited for being a much more recent release (using recent technology and thus having more detail when it comes to the CG artwork), “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” looks good especially when it comes to the grass and surroundings.

But for the characters, they are less detailed.  Colors are still vibrant and for a direct-to-video sequel, the 1998 animation still holds up very well today, but it is quite evident that the film has its share of a little banding and less detail when compared to the other two films.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” is presented in English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and also includes a French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital.  Similar to the first and third film in video, the second film doesn’t have a mix that is totally immersive but there is enough going on in action that there is a good use of LFE and surround channels.  There is no doubt that this sequel tend to use much more music than the previous two films but I felt the music was not as strong or memorable compared to the original film.  Again, this is a direct-to-video sequel, so I was not expecting Elton John to return, but for the most part, dialogue is crystal clear and the overall lossless soundtrack is OK.

The soundtrack is also presented in French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital.  Subtitles are presented in English SDH, French and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride: Special Edition” comes with the following special features:

• Timon & Pumbaa’s Insectapedia - (5:30) New to Blu-ray is this segment as Timon and Pumbaa talk about the insects in the wild.
• Only One – (5:42) An animated and musical short featuring a young African community who begin making kites.
• Timon & Pumbaa: Find Out Why - (7:33) Pumbaa explains to Timon of “Why is there lightning and thunder? Why do we sneeze? Why don’t pandas live in the desert? Why is there wind? And why does an airplane fly?”
• Proud of Simba’s Pride - (15:02) A short featurette featuring the crew and the cast about the sequel and the development of “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride”.
• “Love Will Find a Way” Music Video - A Music video of “Love Will Find a Way” featuring Kenny Lattimore and Heather Headley.

EXTRAS:

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride: Special Edition” comes with a slipcover case and a DVD version of the feature film. The DVD is presented in widescreen 1:66:1 aspect ratio, English, French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and subtitles in English SDH, French and Spanish.

For those who grew up watching “The Lion King” and enjoyed the film and are now adults with their own children, “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” is a fun family film as it continues the storyline of Simba and friends.

Rarely do we see Disney creating sequels for their popular animated films but in 1998, knowing how successful “The Lion King” was, it was a no-brainer for Disney to create a film, albeit a direct-to-video film with the characters.

When I first watched “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride”, I found the film to be enjoyable and entertaining.  But this was the first time I watched it since 1998 and for the most part, the film manages to hold up very well, but I felt some of the music felt a bit aged and also was not as memorable as the first film.  But I suppose that it’s hard to complain since this is not a theatrical film but a direct-to-video film.  And compared to other direct-to-video animated films, you have to give credit to Walt Disney Studios for going all out in creating a film that looks gorgeous, featuring plenty of music but also a film that features the characters that fans of the first film will remember and will be excited to see.  But most importantly, a passing of the torch to a new generation as the film focuses on Simba’s daughter, from child to young adult and her finding her first love, Kovu.

While both “The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride” and “The Lion King 1 1/2″ were released as part of a Blu-ray set last year, I’m actually happy that Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has decided to release these two direct-to-video films on Blu-ray individually. And I am quite pleased of how gorgeous the film looks on Blu-ray. Typically one doesn’t put too much stock into direct-to-video animated films but in the case of “The Lion King 1 1/2″, the film looks absolutely vibrant and beautiful look at. Granted, the losless audio is not as active and pronounced as the original film but it’s still very good.

Overall, “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride – Special Edition” is an enjoyable family film, while not as great as the first film, the direct-to-video sequel manages to hold up quite well on its own.

And for those who were fans of the original film who never saw the direct-to-video films and were in awe of the Blu-ray release of “The Lion King”, I definitely recommend purchasing the other two direct-to-video films as they look great on Blu-ray but also are important to have for collector’s wanting to own the trilogy.

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride – Special Edition” is recommended!

 

The Lion King 1 1/2: Special Edition (a J!-ENT Children’s Blu-ray Disc Review)

If you thought the original “The Lion King” looked amazing on Blu-ray, the second direct-to-video film “The Lion King 1 1/2″ looks vibrant and gorgeous in HD!  While it is not essential to watch this film, it’s still a fun family film focusing on Timon & Pumbaa and life before and after they met Simba.

Image courtesy of © Disney. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: The Lion King 1 1/2: Special Edition

FILM YEAR OF RELEASE: 2004

DURATION: 76 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (1:66:1), English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio,French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, Subtitles: English SDH, French and Spanish Subtitles

COMPANY: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

RATED: G (for General Audiences)

Release Date: March 6, 2012

Directed by Bradley Raymond

Screenplay by Tom Rogers, Roger Allers, Irene Mecchi, Raymond Singer, Evan Spiliotopoulos

Produced by George A. Mendoza, Jason VanBorssum

Associate Producer: Michael Paxton

Music by Don Harper

Edited by Joyce Arrastia

Production Design by Dennis Greco

Art Direction by James Gallego

Featuring the following voice talent:

Nathan LAne as Timon

Ernie Sabella as Pumbaa

Julie Kavner as Mom

Jerry Stiller as Uncle Max

Matthew Broderick as Adult Simba

Robert Guillaume as Rafiki

Moira Kelly as Nala

Whoopi Goldberg as Shenzi

Cheech Marin as Banzai

Jim Cummings as Ed

Edward Hibbert as Zazu

JAson Rudofsky as Flinchy

Matt Weinberg as Young Simba

Hilarity reigns in the motion picture comedy-adventure that takes you waaay back to the beginning before Simba’s tale began…now more fabulous than ever for the first time in a 2-disc Blu-ray Combo Pack!

From their uniquely hysterical perspective, Timon and his windy pal Pumbaa—the greatest unsung heroes of the savanna—reveal where they came from, how they helped Simba save the Serengeti and what really happened behind the scenes of The Lion King’s biggest events.

Disney has had many successes since Walt Disney created the popular animation studio back in 1923.

With the success of their live action films and their PIXAR 3D animated films, still to this day, “The Lion King”, the 32nd film in the Walt Disney Animated Classics remains as the most successful animated film for the legendary company earning over $862 million in the box office (created with a budget of $45 million) and in terms of overall animation, it’s the fifth highest grossing animated film of all time and the #1 highest grossing film when it comes to hand-drawn animation.

The film earned two Academy awards plus a Golden Globe for “Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy” and is the #4 animated film on the American Film Institute’s “10 Top 10″ list.

“The Lion King” made its debut on Blu-ray (2-disc) courtesy of a Diamond Edition on Oct. 4, 2011, as well as a 3D Blu-ray (4-Disc) and also an 8-disc “The Lion King” trilogy box set which included both direct-to-video films “The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride” and “The Lion King 1 1/2″.

And now in March 2012, both films will be released on Blu-ray separately.

“Lion King 1 1/2″ is the third film of “The Lion King” series, made in 2004 and focuses primarily on Timon and Pumbaa.  Because this is a direct-to-video film and previous voice talent have gotten older since the making of the original “The Lion King”, a few changes were made for casting such as Matt Weinberg as young Simba instead of Jonathan Taylor Thomas and Rowan Atkinson as Zazu.

Created in a “Mystery Science Theater 3000″ style, both Timon and Pumbaa are watching a film of “The Lion King 1 1/2″ as it features their back story before and after they met Simba.

The film begins with Timon wanting more responsibility as a meerkat but because he tends to get into trouble, he nearly gets his meerkat group killed when he fails to alert them that hyenas have arrived to their village.  While his mother is quite supportive of him and his Uncle Max tends to be quite critical of him, Timon becomes an outcast to the other meerkats.

Timon meets a mandrill named Rafiki who tells him that he must find his place in the world via Hakuma Matata and next thing you know, Timon goes to Pride Rock where he meets Pumbaa for the very first time.

Both Timon and Pumbaa have no family and thus, they become best friends to each other.

As the two are able to find a new home and live life via Hakuna Matata, the storyline then shifts to when both Timon and Pumbaa meet Simba for the very first time and begin to raise him.

The film shows a connection to the original “The Lion King” film but also shows how Timon is not so appreciative of Nala coming in and taking away Simba from them.  As Simba heads back to the Pride Lands to confront his uncle Scar, will his good friends Timon and Pumbaa be there with him?

VIDEO:

Each time I have watched a Disney animated classic on Blu-ray, suffice to say, there are no disappointments. Each release has been spectacular when it comes to picture quality and with the Blu-ray release of “The Lion King 1 1/2″, once again viewers are receiving a quality product as this film looks fantastic on Blu!

Forget the fact that this is a direct-to-video film, the detail of this animated film is impressive, vibrant and beautiful!

Presented in 1080p High Definition (1:66:1), the first thing you will noticed about “The Lion King 1 1/2″ is how vibrant the film is. The colors are spectacular, the black levels are nice and deep and the colorful visuals are just breathtaking. There were times where I was expecting to see some banding, especially the gradient pink to purples in the background but for the most part, the film looked awesome with no problems whatsoever.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“The Lion King 1 1/2″ is presented in English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and also includes a French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital. If you thought the video was awesome for “The Lion King 1 1/2″, the lossless soundtrack was good.  I’ve noticed a good use of the LFE and also the surround channels, but compared to “The Lion King”, it’s not as active and pronounced.   A big difference is that there was good use of ambiance of the Pride Lands in the original film, for “The Lion King 1 1/2″, most of the audio comes to play during the action and music sequences.  But for the most part, the audio for  “Lion King 1 1/2″ was OK but not super active compared to the first film but is expected as this is a direct-to-video release.

Subtitles are presented in English SDH, French and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“The Lion King 1 1/2: Special Edition” comes with the following special features:

• Timon & Pumbaa’s Vacation Safari - (4:57) Featuring Timon and Pumbaa showcasing video of animals that live in the wild.
• Deleted Scenes – (11:44) Director Bradley Raymond and Producer George Mendoza explain the segments that did not make the final cut.  Note: The seven deleted scenes are presented as sketches or artwork.
• Timon: Behind the Legend – (4:04) Peter Graves does a mockumentary of Timon’s childhood and features interview with Timon, his mother, Uncle Max and Pumbaa.
• Before the Beginning: The Making of Lion King 1 1/2 - (15:02) Director Bradley Raymond and Producer George Mendoza give viewers a chance to see the making of “The Lion King 1 1/2″ with interviews with the crew who were responsible in making the film.
• “Grazin’ in the Grass” Music Video  - (3:12) A Music video of “Grazin’ in the Grass” sung by Raven Symone.

EXTRAS:

“The Lion King 1 1/2: Special Edition” comes with a slipcover case and a DVD version of the feature film. The DVD is presented in widescreen 1:66:1 aspect ratio, English, French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and subtitles in English SDH, French and Spanish.

For those who grew up watching “The Lion King” and enjoyed the film and are now adults with their own children, “The Lion King 1 1/2″ is a fun family film as it focuses on the two crazy characters of the original film, Timon and Pumbaa!

The film goes into the past of how these two characters met, but how Timon’s life was prior to meeting Pumbaa and Simba, but also showing the audience of what took place during the time Simba lived with both of them.

While it is a direct-to-video film and is not essential to watch, if you are a fan of “The Lion King”, it’s a wonderful addition to the series and also giving fans more storylines involving the characters from the first “The Lion King” film.

While both “The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride” and “The Lion King 1 1/2″ were released as part of a Blu-ray set last year, I’m actually happy that Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has decided to release these two direct-to-video films on Blu-ray individually.   And I am quite pleased of how gorgeous the film looks on Blu-ray.  Typically one doesn’t put too much stock into direct-to-video animated films but in the case of “The Lion King 1 1/2″, the film looks absolutely vibrant and beautiful look at.  Granted, the losless audio is not as active and pronounced as the original film but it’s still very good.

Overall, “The Lion King 1 1/2″ is a great family film and for parents looking for an animated film on Blu-ray for their children to watch. Also,”The Lion King 1 1/2″ Blu-ray release also comes with the DVD version of the film.

And for those who were fans of the original film who never saw the direct-to-video films and were in awe of the Blu-ray release of the original film, what best now to watch the two than on Blu-ray!

“The Lion King 1 1/2: Special Edition” is recommended for children and families!

 

Victorious: The Complete Second Season (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

Enjoyable, fun and crazy! If you enjoy Nickelodeon’s “iCarly”, definitely check out “Victorious: The Complete Second Season” featuring 12 fun episodes!

Images courtesy of © 2012 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. NICKELODEON, VICTORIOUS and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. TM, ® & Copyright © 2012 by Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Victorious: Season Two

DURATION: 12 episodes (Duration: 312 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Full Screen Format, Dolby Digital (English Stereo), Closed Caption

COMPANY: Nickelodeon/Paramount

RATED: G

RELEASE DATE: March 18, 2012

Directed by Steve Hoefer, Adam Weissman

Series Written by Dan Schneider, Jake Farrow, Matt Fleckenstein

Producer: Sean Gil, Joe Catania, Bruce Rand Berman

Associate Producer: Aline Robey, Irene Oncley, Erin Braun

Executive Producer: Dan Schneider

Music by Michael Corcoran

Cinematography by Mike Spodnik

Edited by Nancy Morrison, Andrew Hirsch, Patricia Barnett

Casting by Krisha Bullock, Leslie Zaslower

Production Design by Harry Matheu

Set Decoration by Jason Howard

Series Costume Design by Kristin Dangl

Starring:

Victoria Justice as Tori Vega

Leon Thomas III as Andre Harris

Matt Bennett as Robbie Shapiro

Elizabeth Gillies as Jade West

Ariana Grande as Cat Valentine

Avan Jogie as Beck Oliver

Daniella Monet as Trina Vega

Michael Eric Reid as Sinjin

Eric Lange as Mr. Sikowitz

Lane Napper as Lane

Season 2 of Victorious shines even brighter as the students re-audition for their spots at Hollywood Arts, get ready for their first-ever prom, and drive a giant cupcake through the streets!  Put your hands together for more music, more drama, and hilarious behind-the-scenes bloopers!

In 2010, from the executive producer of “Drake & Josh”, “iCarly”, “Kenan & Kel” and “Zoey 101″ came a new Nickelodeon series titled “Victorious”, starring actress/singer Victoria Justice (known for her role as Lola Martinez on “Zoey 101″) as Victoria “Tori” Vega.

“Victorious” focuses on Victoria “Tori” who has been accepted at Hollywood Arts High School, after taking her sister Trina’s (played by Daniella Monet) place in a showcase. While Trina is known more for her drive to become an actress, her sister “Tori” has talent that she is not too conscious about and now trying to fit in her new school.

“Victorious” features the following characters:

• Tori Vega (played by Victoria Justice) – Tori is a normal high school teenager who didn’t know she had much talent until she was discovered and now taken into the prestigious Hollywood Arts High School.  She has since become a big heart of her group and participating in many activities.
• Trina Vega (played by Daniella Monet) – Tori’s older sister who doesn’t have much talent, is seen as unusually weird, vain and very outspoken.
• Andre Harris (played by Leon Thomas III) – Andre is Tori’s musical partner and good friend.  An accomplished musician and dancer, he is often helping out Tori with her problems and working with her in creating songs.
  
• Robbie Shapiro (played by Matt Bennett) – Robbie is often seen as the unusual nerd because he hangs out with a dummy named Christopher Cane.  As many think he is an expert ventriloquist, he talks to his dummy as if it’s a real person and it appears his dummy has a mind of its own and treats Robbie badly.
• Jade West (played by Elizabeth Gillies) – Jade is Tori’s viral and gets very jealous when Tori usurps her in auditions or affects her events.  Jade is also into dark things and likes seeing people in misery.  She hangs out with the group but often seen mocking Tori.  Tori is dating Beck.
• Cat Valentine (played by Ariana Grande) – Cat is a naive girl and her mind is often in lala land.  She is a good singer but often surprises her friends because she’s often in her own world.
• Beck Oliver (played by Avan Jogia) – The cool member of the group that is dating Jade.  He is often the person that has to calm Jade down when she is bad.

Other Characters:

• Mr. Sikowitz (played by Eric Lange) – A hippie teacher at Hollywood Arts High School.
• Lane (played by Lane Napper) – The logical minded adult at Hollywood Arts High School.
• Sinjin (played by Michael Eric Reid) – A student who does the lighting and helps out the group during their performances.  Often seen trying to get closed to the girls and often rejected.

With the DVD release of “Victorious: Season Two”, included are 12 episodes featuring Tori Vega as she continues to embrace her musical and acting talent at Hollywood Arts High School.  Watch as the rivalry between Tori and Jade starts to heat up.  What happens when a guy that Tori likes, uses her?  And what happens when the students at Hollywood Arts tries to win a Ke$ha contest?

It’s another crazy, fun and entertaining season of Nickelodeon’s “Victorious”.

“Victorious: Season Two” features the following episodes (spoilerless summaries):

Note: Episodes listing on this DVD is not going by episode series #, but is going by production code #.

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 22: Beck Falls for Tori – Tori auditions for a film but finds out later that it is for a stunt double.
• EPISODE 28: Helen Back Again – Hollywood Arts High School has a new principal and it’s Helen (from “Drake & Josh”) and she wants to redo student auditions at Hollywood Arts. Special Guest: Yvette Nicole Brown
• EPISODE 26-27: Locked Up (TV Movie) – Tori and the group are invited to perform at Festus’ home country in Yerba, but unknown to the group is that Yerba is a very dangerous country.
• EPISODE 30: Tori Gets Stuck - Tori and Jade compete in getting a role in the play “Steamboat Suzy”.  Meanwhile, Robbie is rushed in the hospital and the only person that can donate blood is Tori.  Will she jeopardize her role to help him?
• EPISODE 30: Tori Tortures Teacher - It’s Sikowitz’s 10th year anniversary teaching at Hollywood Arts but as Tori tries to celebrate the occasion, she may be making him more depressed.
• EPISODE 31: Jade Gets Crushed - Is Andre developing a crush for Jade?  What are these feelings he is having?

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 29: Who Did It Trina? – Trina is hurt during a performance and it may be sabotage.  The members of the group are interrogated by Lane. Special Cameo Appearance by “iCarly” actor Nathan Kress.
• EPISODE 21: Beggin’ On Your Knees - Tori falls for Ryder Daniels, a popular guy known for using girls at Hollywood Arts High School.
• EPISODE 23: Ice Cream for Ke$ha - It’s an ice cream contest and whoever can spell Ke$ha will win a special concert at their school. Special Guest: Ke$ha
• EPISODE 25: Prom Wrecker – When Jade’s performance is canceled due to prom, Jade wants revenge by sabotaging the prom (which Tori is the coordinator of).
• EPISODE 32: Terror on Cupcake Street - The group are taking part in a cupcake float for a parade, but the float gets stuck in the bad part of town.
• EPISODE 34: Blooptorious - Featuring the puppet Christopher Cane interviewing the stars of “Victorious” and showcasing their bloopers.

VIDEO, AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Victorious: The Complete Second Season” is presented in full screen, Dolby Digital (English Stereo). The series is shot via Digital and the picture quality is very good on DVD. I didn’t notice any major artifacting or digital noise. But for the most part, fans should be pleased with the video and audio.

There are no subtitles but closed captions are included.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Victorious: The Complete Second Season” comes with the following special features:

• “Seven Secrets” with Victoria Justice - (22:40) Learn more about the actress who plays Tori Vega on “Victorious”.  Victoria Justice talks about coming from Hollywood, Florida to Hollywood, California and having her own show.  Many more fun facts about the actress!
• Behind The Scenes - (:54) Behind-the-scenes of the cast of the “Victorious” two-episode special “Locked Up”.

A fun and entertaining series, the second season of “Victorious” has definitely improved since the first season and actress Victoria Justice continues to shine!

When I saw Victoria Justice appearing on “iCarly” last year, I had the feeling that Nickelodeon or even Dan Schneider was planning to use the actress for a new show and I was right. Victoria Justice who had starred on “Zoey 101″ and had short roles in various Schneider-related series has her chance to not just showcase her acting but also singing.

And here we are with “Victorious” season two.  The cast has since gotten better with their chemistry and Victoria Justice is much more confident playing the lead character and more comfortable in her performance this time around.

The episodes are still fun, silly and enjoyable.  I do enjoy the way the writers integrate the characters in each episode and for the most part, the writing has gotten better.  For the majority of this season, “Victorious” focuses a lot on Victoria Justice taking on a variety of roles.  May it be a singer, a prom coordinator, writing her own play, making her own music, there was definitely a great utilization of the lead actress, while the supporting cast also have plenty of scenes as well.

As for parents who are wondering if this is fine for children, for older children, I can say yes as there is no scenes that caused me to rethink of having my own son watching the series. But the series does focus on teenagers and it’s a teen-driven comedy series. I didn’t see any violence but kids who like to mimic what they say on TV, it’s up to parent if they feel that the show is appropriate.

There are some questionable scenes that parents may object to.  One features Cat Valentine accidentally receiving emergency calls on her cell phone and in her naive way, she loves the attention from the calls but doesn’t really call 911 to get them help.  Another scene that parents may not want their children to watch is “Tori Gets Struck” which features Tori donating blood and when Robbie accidentally drops the bag, the blood explodes on both characters.  Definitely something that may freak out younger viewers.

But I personally didn’t find anything wrong with older children watching “Victorious” and they may enjoy the music especially the comedy presented in the series. For the most part, these episodes are safe and are intended for young teens or older children.

And as for the series, this is not a musical show in the sense of shows like “Glee”.  It’s a different type of series that takes on teen issues, friendships and wacky situations.  The show is primarily about Tori Vega and while others may display their musical or acting chops, its a series about Tori and friends. No one breaks out in song or dance unless the situation calls for it but if anyone is doing any singing, it’s Tori Vega and sometimes her very crazy sister Trina.

I found the series to be fun and wacky at times. You have the teen drama, the teen angst and crazy moments, especially when it features ventriloquist Robbie Shapiro and his bad attitude dummy, the spaced out Cat Valentine or Tori’s bratty older sister Trina.  I did notice that this second season featured less of Beck Oliver and shorter appearances by Tori’s sister Trina and the episodes tend to focus on storylines that revolve around Tori, Andre, Jade, Robbie and Cat.

As “Victorious” is on its third season, it’s important to note that this is the complete second season of “Victorious” (whereas the first season was released in two DVD volumes).

Overall, “Victorious” is a fun and enjoyable series and with the second season, the episodes continue its fun, crazy hijinks and good music. Victoria Justice has really developed to be a pretty solid actress with a solid voice.  So, I pretty much like how her character has been developed in these last two seasons.  Also, with the other characters itself, although I felt the writers are playing the naivety of Cat Valentine a bit too much and when there are no laughs but silence, it seems quite a bit awkward.  But the acting is much better for this second season, especially as the talent are now settled in.

If you are a fan of “Victorious”, this DVD of “Victorious: The Complete Second Season” is recommended!

 

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