Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

If your a big fan of the Broken Lizard comedy troupe, you’ll definitely enjoy their latest, hilarious comedy special on DVD featuring over 30 minutes of uncensored material not shown on television and also an extra hour of special features including a featurette showcasing Broken Lizard behind-the-scenes as they travel nationwide.  If you enjoyed the comedy from their films such as “Super Troopers”, “Beerfest” or “The Slammin’ Salmon”, definitely give this DVD a try!

Images courtesy of © 2010 Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved. COMEDY CENTRAL, BROKEN LIZARD and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Comedy Partners. TM, ® & Copyright © 2010 by Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored

DURATION: 78 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Widescreen, Dolby Digital, Color

RATED: Parental Advisory: Explicit Content Warning.  This program is recommended for mature audiences only.  It contains adult language and situations/

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

Released Dated: September 14, 2010

Directed by Jay Chandrasekhar

Co-Directed by Robert Barocci

Written by Broken Lizard

Executive Producer Richard Perello

Director of Photography: Robert Barocci

Edited by Brad Katz

Production Designer: Laura Fine Hawkes

Music by Tim Mosher & Stoker

Starring:

Jay Chandrasekhar

Kevin Heffernan

Paul Soter

Steve Lemme

Erik Stolhanske

Concert Film includes over 30 minutes of uncensored material not shown on Comedy Central. Nothing is off limits when Broken Lizard, the guys behind Super Troopers and Beerfest, unveil their uproarious night of stand-up comedy. Live from The El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, each group member takes the stage to discuss drugs, lust and everything in between, culminating with the origin tale of how they all met. Broken Lizard delivers their unique brand of outrageously raunchy comedy in one unforgettable night of stand-up.

The comedy troupe known as Broken Lizard have been entertaining the masses since the five friends formed a comedy group at Colgate University back in 1990.  The group which consists of Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske are known for films such as “Super Troopers”, “Beerfest” and member Jay Chandrasekhar directed the 2005 film “The Dukes of Hazard”.

Some may feel their humor is frat boy, wasted on alcohol good times style of comedy and that is no surprise considering that Jay Chandrasekhar assembled the troupe from members of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity and in the beginning, the group did quite a bit of live stand up comedy until they began to focus more on films and television starting off with Comedy Central’s “Is this On?” as the group wrote and were featured on the comedy short “Dante’s Levels of Hell”.

And after a few independent attempts at film, it was not until 2000 when the group worked on their first major film “Super Troopers” which was invited to Sundance and received a distribution deal at Fox Searchlight pictures and eventually became a cult-hit and cemented the comedy troupe’s success as the group would then work on “Club Dread”, “The Dukes of Hazard” and “Beerfest”.  The group recently finished their fifth feature “The Slammin’ Salmon” which was directed by Kevin Hefferman.

The comedy troupe recorded their live comedy special on January 28th at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles and the following segments are included on “Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored”.

• Backstage Pregame - Featuring the comedy group’s pre-game ritual before their live comedy performance.
• Steve Lemme Stand Up – Talks about he and his buddies enjoying their discussion of masturbation, his impression of Kevin Heffernan’s teddybear and more.
• Sue Boyle – Sure, we know of Susan Boyle but not Kevin Heffernan’s version of Sue Boyle.
• Paul Soter Stand Up – Paul talks about he and his friends disgusting habits and being married.
• Patrick Swayze – Steve Lemme and Kevin Heffernan talk about meeting Patrick Swayze for the first time.
• Erik Stolhanske Stand Up – Erik talks about he and his wife trying to have a baby and getting a sperm count and more.
• Jay Chandrasekhar Stand Up – Jay talks about having a threesome, smoking pot and talking to Indian tech support.
• Kevin Heffernan Stand Up – Kevin talks about doing full frontal nudity in a film and becoming “Bear of the Day”.
• How We Met – The guys tell a story of how they met each other at Colgate University.

VIDEO:

“Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored” is presented in widescreen and picture quality is good.  Camera angles are typically from behind the audience, front of the comedian, behind the comedian and also closeups of the audience reaction.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored” is presented in Stereo.  Audio is clear and you can hear the comedian clearly and also hear the audience laughing quite well. Personally, I chose to have my receiver set on stereo on all channels for a more immersive soundtrack but overall, audio is good and found no problems at all.

Closed captions are included with this DVD feature.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored” comes with the following special features:

• Super Troopers Sketch – (7:06) Featuring
• On the Road with Broken Lizard – (22:23) Featuring footage of the comedy troupe performing at various cities across the country and footage recorded behind-the-scenes and backstage.  Chapters on this featurette include:

- Jay Loves Everyone

- Soundcheck

- Blumpy

- Backstage in Milwaukee

- Erik’s Parrot Song

- Wonder Woman

- Backstage in Boston

- Backstage in Philadelphia

- Who’s On First on Steroids

• Backstage Pregame Long Cut and Outtakes – (11:23) Featuring the longer version of the backstage pregame plus outtakes from the special.

Rarely do you find comedy troupe DVD’s especially from Comedy Central and for many fans of Broken Lizard, this release is a special treat as you literally get to see five comedians doing stand-up comedy their own way, with their own personal style.

If anything, their comedy style can be seen as comedy targeted for inebriated college students or jokes that guys talk about with their friends and just get a kick out of it.  You know…jokes about farts, sex and masturbation.  Topics that are not for everyone but if you can find yourself laughing about a guy having sex with a ball or teddy bear, this DVD is for you.

With that being said, if one was to judge their comedy through films such as “Super Troopers, “Club Dread”, “Beerfest” or “The Slammin’ Salmon”, although not major theatrical hits, there are those who can’t stand their style of comedy and find it juvenile and moronic, while there is a group who digs their comedy and find them quite hilarious.

For me, I found “Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored” to be one of those shows that would be fun to be with your guy friends and not sure if my wife or her friends would dig it.  If anything, the guys of Broken Lizard are guys you picture yourself hanging out with and just joke around and talk about life experiences and joke about it.

Steve Lemme kicks things off with his discussion of masturbation and just exposing his friend’s crazy secrets such as Kevin Heffernan’s sex with his teddybear and Steve doing an imitation of that teddy bear.  Then you have Heffernan doing his impression of Susan Boyle as she discusses various sexual moves that she has not partaken in but each word that comes out of her mouth is so hilarious that it gets the crowd going.

Paul Soter then gets into discussions of his friends disgusting habits. From when they sleep or walk around naked, I don’t know how crazy things got with these guys at Colgate University but it’s hilarious when Soter gets into discussions about his comedy partners and the crazy things that they do.  I know some women might find these topic gross but for guys, you can’t help but laugh.

Probably one of the coolest stories was Steve Lemme and Kevin Heffernan describing their story of meeting Patrick Swayze, more like Steve Lemme scaring him off and acting a bit stalker-ish and thus receiving the wrath from Matt Dillon.  But it’s a hilarious story with a pretty cool ending.

Erik Stolhanske’s comedy definitely hits home to the married crowd, especially the guys who have tried to get their wive’s pregnant to no avail.  It’s a topic that some guys can relate to.  Guys who spend part of their life in trying not to get someone pregnant but in the times you do want it to happen, it just doesn’t happen.

Jay Chandrasekhar’s comedy was like hearing a hilarious story from a guy who’s wasted but nevertheless, funny dialogue especially when talking about Indian call centers and people from India having to pretend they are from the US yet their pronunciation of his last name just perfectly.  Definitely a funny bit.   And the night ends with Kevin Heffernan’s discussion of his full frontal nudity scene  and  all comedians getting together to discuss how they all met to end the performance.

When it’s all done, you wish there is more and fortunately there is about 40-minutes more of special features for people to watch including the group’s nationwide comedy tour and what goes on behind-the-scenes.

Overall, “Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored” is a hilarious DVD but it’s different compared to other Comedy Central DVD’s and the fact that you do get stand-up comedy routines from five individuals who have their own style of comedy, it definitely makes a more accessible comedy DVD.  And the fact that there are over 30 minutes of uncensored material not shown on Comedy Central included on this DVD, should make fans of Broken Lizard quite happy.

In the end, this DVD is definitely for their fans.  If you are familiar with their films such as “Super Troopers, “Club Dread”, “Beerfest”, “The Slammin’ Salmon” or even the “Dukes of Hazard” film, and you enjoyed the comedy in those films, more than likely you’re going to enjoy the comedy on “Broken Lizard Stands Up: Live, Extended and Uncensored”.

Grab yourself a beer, watch it with your buddies and have a good time!

Lewis Black – Stark Raving Black (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

Known as the angry Jewish comedian, Lewis Black is back with a hilarious Comedy Central DVD titled “Stark Raving Black”.  Ranting from everything  from politics to the iPhone being on crappy AT&T service, Lewis Black delivers in his latest special.  Also, included is a 70-minute documentary based on Black’s rise from his earlier career to becoming one of the most popular comedians in America.

Images courtesy of © 2010 Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved. COMEDY CENTRAL, and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Comedy Partners. TM, ® & Copyright © 2010 by Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Lewis Black – Stark Raving Black

DURATION: 80 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Color, Widescreen (16:9), DTS English 5.1 Surround, Dolby Digital English 5.1 Surround and English 2.0 Stereo.  Subtitles: English SDH

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED: Parental Advisory: Explicit Content.  Warning: This Program is Recommended for Mature Audiences Only. It Contains Adult Languages and Situations.

RELEASE DATE: June 15, 2010

Directed by Adam Dubin

Written by Lewis Black

Executive Producer: JoAnne Astrow, Mark Lonow

Producer: Benjamin Brewer, Jack Gulick

Associate Producer: Rachele Benloulou

Edited by Christine Mitsogiorgakis

Starring:

Lewis Black

Stark Raving Black Productions proudly presents the comedy of Lewis Black in 80 minutes of outrageous topical standup humor. Shot at the historic Fillmore Theater in Detroit, “STARK RAVING BLACK” features Lewis Black serving up his blistering social and political commentary on current events. The movie is the culmination of his very best material from his sold-out shows throughout North America and Europe in 2009. Also included is a 70-minute documentary on Lewis Black’s life and career titled “BASIC BLACK.” The documentary gives an intimate portrait of what it’s like to “lick every inch of the ladder” on the way to becoming one of the most successful comedians in America.

Lewis Black, the popular American stand-up comedian known for his angry rants, taking on politics and and religion and seen on Comedy Central’s “The Root of All Evil” and on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” for his “Back in Black” commentary segment.

Earning his Masters in Fine Arts at the  Yale School of Drama, Lewis Black is well-known for his intelligent take on politics and the absurdities of life, compared to comedic greats such as George Carlin and Lenny Bruce, Lewis Black is well-respected in the industry and having had his fair share of Comedy Central specials, Black returns with “Stark Raving Black”, a comedy film shot at the Fillmore Detroit in Detroit, Michigan on August 2009.  The DVD also features a 70-minute documentary titled “BASIC BLACK: The Lewis Black Story” on his life and career and most importantly how he became one of the most successful comedians in America.

Here is a chapter listing of what is included in “Stark Raving Black”:

1. Expectations
2. Democrats & Republicans
3. Mainstream Comedian
4. Vince Gill, Amy Grant & Me
5. Hitting 60
6. Birth & Death
7. Parents
8. The Economy
9. Greed
10. Alternative Energy
11. hope

VIDEO:

Lewis Black’s “Stark Raving Black” was shot in HD and is presented on DVD via Widescreen Format enhanced for 16:9 TV’s.  This film features a camera focused directly on Lewis Black, a camera behind him, one near the audience and we get closeups of the audience reaction to his jokes.  No dizzying cuts, editing was well done as well as lighting.  Black is not one of those comedians that does a lot of moving around the stage, so the shots are well-planned and you get a good balance of close-ups, full body shots and audience reactions.    Since the original source was in HD, picture quality is very good on DVD and I wouldn’t be surprised if “Stark Raving Black” receives a Blu-ray release in the near future.

As for “BASIC BLACK: The Lewis Black Story”, the documentary ranges from new footage to really older comedy video clips, so PQ definitely varies for the documentary.  But overall, the older scenes are watchable.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Lewis Black – Stark Raving Black” is presented in DTS English 5.1 Surround, Dolby Digital English 5.1 Surround and English 2.0 Stereo.  This is pretty good as most comedy DVD’s are presented in Dolby Digital Stereo.  Subtitles are in English SDH.

I was absolutely pleased with the audio and once again, because it was shot in HD, I wouldn’t be surprised if the film does receive a Blu-ray release in the future and the audio gets a lossless track.  Surrounds are good in bringing out the crowd reactions, center and front channel does a good job in bringing the dialogue out and dialogue is clear and understandable.   Rarely do you see comedy performances with a DTS soundtrack, so I thought that was pretty cool to see this audio feature included.  And if you have a modern home theater receiver, one may want to try to have stereo on all channels for a more immersive soundscape.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Lewis Black – Stark Raving Black” comes with the 70-minute documentary “Basic Black: The Lewis Black Story” featuring the life of Lewis Black.  Featuring never-before-seen footage from Black’s earlier career, interviews with friends, fellow comedians, his touring crew and also his family, from his love for food (and accidentally mistaking sand dollars for cookies) and more!  The documentary definitely is a wonderful inclusion on this DVD!

EXTRAS:

“Lewis Black – Stark Raving Black” comes with a slip cover.  Also, included is an insert which is folded up and is actually a poster for the “Stark Raving Black” film.

Lewis Black is one of those comedian’s that stays in your memory.  Similar to how Sam Kinison is remembered for his ranting comedy, Lewis Black is more on the intellectual side as he takes on politics, religion and the absurdities of life but once he begins his monologue, we see his transformation to a man in rage.

For those familiar with Lewis Black’s rants on the “Back in Black” segments from “The Daily Show with John Stewart” should know that Black has a lot to say about the nation’s politics and his disgust for both parties.  For fans of Lewis Black’s work, fans will be entertained by Black’s comedic presentation.  There is no signs of laughs waning with his performance, nor are their boring spots throughout the whole performance.  Black makes sure that with each topic he is discussing, the rhythm is right and the rants are perfectly timed.  He knows when to use it and the audience responds.   This is a man now in his 60′s and the year’s haven’t made him mellow, in fact, all the stupidity in the world ignites him even more.

When Lewis Black is asked by people that since President Bush has left office, what is he going to do?  Black is a logical performer and as if Bush’s leaving the office is going to end stupidity in America?  Lewis is also not afraid to let people know what he thinks about both Republicans and Democrats.

Black also talks about taking part in the USO Christmas tour and how he was chosen as entertainment for the troops and to make things more crazy, he had to follow Vince Gill and his wife Amy Grant (both are Christians) and for the first time in his life, he felt a taste of Christianity and he had to get away.

Black just doesn’t miss a beat as he talks about hitting 60, talking about the recession and economic times, having an iPhone and using AT&T’s crappy mobile service and more.  And even though Black is known for being a ranting madman, his comedy does make sense, it’s smart and hilarious and it makes him one of the unique comedians out there and his film “Stark Raving Black” definitely shows him at the top of his game.  No signs of slowing down and as long as their is stupidity in the world, Black will be there to call it like it is.

So, “Stark Raving Black” is an entertaining comedy DVD and what I found wonderful about this release is that his career is celebrated through the documentary “BASIC BLACK: The Lewis Black Story”.  Everything one would want to know about Lewis Black is in this documentary.   Classic clips from Black’s earlier years, discussions with friends and family about working with him when he first started and working with him today.  Fans of Lewis Black will want this DVD not only for his fine performance but also for the documentary.

Overall, “Stark Raving Black” is a wonderful Lewis Black comedy DVD.  If you are familiar with his style of comedy and have been enjoying his comedy for many years, this DVD is more than just a comedy film, it’s a celebration of Lewis Black’s comedy career!  Definitely recommended!

The Jeff Dunham Show (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

The controversial Comedy Central “The Jeff Dunham Show” starring comedian/ventriloquist Jeff Dunham and his puppets.  The series can be seen as hilarious and fun but also offensive and insensitive.  What it comes down to is that if you are a fan of Jeff Dunham’s comedy, you’ll definitely enjoy this DVD. Otherwise, if you are sensitive to racial caricatures and that style of comedy, this DVD is not for you.

Images courtesy of © 2010 Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: The Jeff Dunham Show

DURATION: 7 Episodes (154 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Letterboxed (2:35:1) – Enhanced for 16×9 TV’s, Color, French with optional English subtitles

RATED: Not Rated (Parental Advisory: Explicit Content. Warning: This program is recommended for mature audiences only.  It contains adult language and situations)

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

Released Dated: May 18, 2010

Directed by Matthew McNeil, Manny Rodriguez

Written by Ian Busch, Jason Mayland, Cece Pleasants, Jeff Dunham

Produced by Cathy A. Cambria

Senior Producer: Christine Reed

Segment Producer: Stephen Ashton Booth

Associate Producer: Tricia Horn

Starring:

Jeff Dunham

Penelope Hsu as Dr. Hsu

Elizabeth Ann Koshak

Brooke Hogan

Benji Madden

Joel Madden

Dr. Drew

You’ve seen Jeff Dunham and his characters on stage at his sold-out concert events. Now see what happens when they perform in front of a live studio audience and go into the real word. Watch as Achmed tries to join the Marines, Walter gives relationship advice to young couples, and Bubba J visits a firing range. Throw in the antics of Sweet Daddy Dee, Peanut, and José Jalapeño, and you’ve got the formula for another Jeff Dunham smash-hit DVD. Add this to your collection today!

Comedy Central is known for having shows that are provocative and “South Park” continues to be the flagship series of the network and still receiving notoriety today as it did when it first aired on television.  But in October -December 2009, comedian/ventriloquist Jeff Dunham was given his own sketch comedy show titled “The Jeff Dunham Show” which many Dunham fans were excited about but at the same time, those familiar with Dunham’s comedy, felt the show’s comedy touching upon racial stereotypes was going too far.

So, needless to say, this controversial Comedy Central sketch comedy show was shortlived and was not renewed to the dismay of fans of Dunham and his show.  But for those fans who can’t get enough of characters such as Walter, Peanut, Bubba J, Sweet Daddy Dee and Achmed the Dead Terrorist, can now rejoice as “The Jeff Dunham Show” will now be released from Comedy Central on DVD.

There is no doubt that Jeff Dunham is one of the more popular and controversial American comedians/ventriloquists out there. Dunham is one of the top grossing comedians in America, has had three specials on Comedy Central and his comedy DVD’s have also been quite successful with over four million DVD’s sold.  His YouTube videos have gone been viral and it would seem that Dunham having his own show was a great idea.

“The Jeff Dunham Show” is a sketch comedy show which features Jeff Dunham and sketches that revolve around his puppets:

• Walter - The older senior who is grump, a Vietnam War veteran, very conservative and also a racist.
• Peanut - A purple skinned “Woozle” who loves his women and is the show’s bad boy.
• Bubba J – The dumb redneck who loves his beer and NASCAR racing.
• Sweet Daddy Dee – Jeff Dunham’s manager who is black.  Calls himself a “Pimp” (Player in the Management Position) who tries to bring some soul into Dunham’s comedy act and has a negative view towards white people.
• Achmed the Dead Terrorist – The skeletal corpse of a suicide bomber and known for saying “I’ll kill you!”.

The following seven episodes (about 22 minutes each) from “The Jeff Dunham Show” are featured on a single DVD.  Here is a basic spoiler-free summary of each episode:

• EPISODE 1 – Walter and Jeff Dunham receive counseling but Walter has problems because the counselor is gay.  Achmed the Dead Terrorist promotes his stand-up comedy DVD, Peanut has a date with Brooke Hogan and Jeff takes Bubba J to a gun show.
• EPISODE 2 – Achmed the Dead Terrorist wants to have his own funeral, Walter gets his health examination but uncomfortable that Dr. Hsu is female and also Asian, Walter interviews the Good Charlotte band members Benji and Joel Madden.
• EPISODE 3 – Achmed the Dead Terrorist tries to become a US Citizen, Walter visits the tech guys for a day, Sweet Daddy Dee tries to bring some soul to Jeff’s comedy and Peanut creates his own health drink.
• EPISODE 4 – Peanut at Paramount recording studio to record a song with Jeff, Bubba J gets a health examination from Dr. Hsu and also a psychological exam and Achmed the Dead Terrorist goes to an adult sex store.
• EPISODE 5 - Sweet Daddy Dee and Jeff visit a Civil War Re-enactment, Achmed the Dead Terrorist records a ringtone, Walter visits a travel agent, Achmed the Dead Terrorist hits on a MILF and Bubba J does some drunk proofing on a home.
• EPISODE 6 – Peanut visits a choreography school, Walter gives counseling advice to couples, Achmed the Dead Terrorist goes to US Marines boot camp and Bubba J goes to the studio to record a ringtone.
• EPISODE 7 – Bubba J gets some counseling from Dr. Drew, Walter gives counseling advice to couples, Achmed the Dead Terrorist visits a preschool, Achmed the Dead Terrorist tries to hire suicide bombers at a job fair and Walter records a ringtone.

VIDEO:

“The Jeff Dunham Show” is presented in widescreen.  Because the show is sketch comedy, video quality differs from footage shot live and footage taped.  But for the most part, video quality is very good for this comedy series.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“The Jeff Dunham Show” is presented in Dolby Digital Stereo in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“The Jeff Dunham Show” comes with the following special features:

• Behind the Scenes – Featuring three segments of behind-the-scenes making of the following skits: Camp Pendleton (2:26), Achmed’s Funeral (1:45) and Comedy Central Promos (1:11) for the show.
• Unaired Sketch – (6:59) Featuring an unaired sketch with Sweet Daddy Dee helping out a German bar.
• Bloopers – (1:35) Bloopers from the skits and live segment of the show.

“The Jeff Dunham Show” is an intriguing comedy series.  Rarely do you get to see a comedy show with puppets, let alone with adult humor.  But the question is if one is able to stomach the humor that is seen on the show.

There is no doubt that fans of Jeff Dunham’s comedy series will enjoy this DVD release.  There are seven entertaining episodes that of course is so not politically correct and for the most part, it’s very interesting to see Jeff Dunham bring some life on these puppets that he has created.

But I can see how people can easily be offended by the show as there are many stereotypes that can be seen with each character. The jokes can easily be taken as very insensitive comedy and insultingly racist.  People with an open mind to jokes that deal with racial caricatures are not going to be offended but those who are sensitive to that type of material are not going to appreciate the series.  Despite the show’s higher ratings compared to other Comedy Central programs, some blame the critics who panned the series as the main reason for the show not being renewed.

In a way, because the show is taken outdoors to various locations and there are various sketches presented in the show, I can see how production costs can get into the way.  But I often wondered if some people who tuned into the first episode, cared enough for the puppets for another week.  Perhaps puppets are not something that viewers care to watch on a weekly basis and possibly, these characters reacting the same way to the material possibly just got old to viewers.

As for the racial caricatures, I wouldn’t be surprised if the comedy was offensive to various ethnic groups.  For example, here are some scenes that probably have touched a nerve.

Walter is your crotchety and conservative older man who is not open to homosexuality and has a disdain towards Asians.  In one sketch, he has a hard time communicating with an Asian American doctor because she’s Asian but when introduced to Chinese food, he starts enjoying it but then starts patronizing the delivery man when he starts questioning him about eating or cooking dogs. In another, he has a problem with a gay counselor giving him counseling.

In another sketch, Bubba J goes to sound proof a home and makes a remark about no need for Mexicans in the repair of a home.  Then probably the most offensive to many like a white man in black face is the puppet of Sweet Daddy Dee in which Jeff Dunham uses his own version of a Black man that is reminiscent of the minstrel black face shows.  And in another sketch featuring Akhmed going to a job fair trying to hire suicide bombers.

Needless to say, this is comedy not intended for the easily offended and because this show features puppets should not expect anything remotely close to Jim Henson’s puppets.  This is Jeff Dunham’s puppets going out and interacting with the real world and his Dunham’s comedy is striking hard on stereotypes and issues that are provocative and using stereotypical characterizations as a way to make people laugh.  No race, no sex is spared from the comedy.

The fact is that Jeff Dunham is a popular comedian, his specials have done very well in ratings for Comedy Central and his DVD’s have sold exceptionally well.  So, it was a unique move to give Jeff Dunham his own show.  There are popular comedians who have thrived and many who haven’t done that well when given their own show.   Dunham’s show went from 5.5 million viewers for its first show and then by the second, it lost half of its viewers and reading viewer comments of their impression of the first episode, there are viewers who enjoyed the not-so-politically correct humor and those who felt that the comedy’s racial caricatures were too much.

I can put myself in the shoes of viewers of both sides and see why one would enjoy the series and one who won’t.  I for one found certain sketches to be hilarious and thought the character of Walter to be quite an intriguing character that Dunham has created.  And for me, the character may be crotchety, conservative and has issues but it also reminds me of a boss I once had who was almost exactly a carbon copy and yeah, I couldn’t help but laugh.

Now, I have to agree with some viewers that Dunham goes a bit far with the puppet Sweet Daddy Dee and I can definitely see how the character would rub people the wrong way and yes, it is a stereotypical caricature.  But Dunham did something in which the character wouldn’t be perceived as racist comedy and that’s by using his Black puppet character along with many other African American people and joking around along with it.

But nevertheless, this is comedy that pushes the button.  I can easily remember the same with Eddie Murphy in the ’80s, Andrew Dice Clay in the ’90s and for those who have an open mind to comedy, there are many people who laughed along with these comedians and those who didn’t appreciate it at all.

Overall, I found the series to be quite hilarious at times and there were jokes that made me feel, “I can’t believe they did that”.  But at the same time, I have an open mind when it comes to comedy and I’m not easily offended.  So, if you are a big fan of Jeff Dunham and “The Jeff Dunham Show”, the DVD is worth picking up.  Otherwise, if you are easily offended, this DVD release is not for you.

Joe Rogan – Talking Monkeys in Space (A J!-ENT DVD Review)

Joe Rogan raw and uncensored!  If you are looking for a raw, testosterone-driven comedy performance on DVD, Rogan delivers!

Images courtesy of © 2010 Zuffa, LLC.   All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Joe Rogan – Talking Monkeys in Space

DURATION: 68 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Widescreen/Dolby Gigital

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED (Parental Advisory: Explicit Content.  Warning: This Program is Recommended for Mature Audiences Only.  It Contains Adult Language and Situations)

RELEASE DATE: March 30, 2010

Directed by Anthony Giordano

Produced by Chandra Keyes, Joe Rogan, Jeff Sussman, Dana White

Edited by Ron Crigler

Starring:

Joe Rogan

UFC color commentator and all-around badass Joe Rogan kicks his way into your living room with his brand-new comedy special, Talking Monkeys in Space. Filmed at the Southern Theatre in Columbus, Ohio, Rogan tackles everything from evolution to making babies to gay marriage.

For many people, Joe Rogan is recognized for his work on the sitcom “NewsRadio”, host of “Fear Factor”, “The Man Show” and providing color commentary for the UFC fights and host of “UFC Wired”.  But before he was seen on television, Joe Rogan was known for his comedy.

Rogan is one of the no-nonsense, tells it like it is type of comedian and along with his support of talking about marijuana to masturbation, he is also known to be critical of other comedians who plagiarize other comedian’s works.

Needless to say, Rogan’s style is off-the-cuff and with an energetic crowd at the sold-out Southern Theater in Columbus, Ohio, Rogan was on fire for his comedy special “Talking Monkeys in Space” which will be released via Comedy Central/Paramount on DVD on March 30th.

The tracklist for “Talking Monkeys in Space” are as follows:

1. Black President/Illegal Weed
2. Gray Hair on My Balls
3. I Made a Baby/Breast Milk
4. Pulling Out Doesn’t Work
5. Anti-Pot Talking Dogs
6. Pot is not For everyone
7. Pot Stops You From Doing Stupid Shit/Mount Everest
8. I Didn’t Come From a Monkey, I Came from Jesus/Evolution
9. Telepathy/Ted Haggard Got Cured of the Gay
10. Mormons/Gay Marriage/Chimp Prostitution
11. Tiger Escapes from Zoo, Frees  Person From Life
12. Dr. Phil and His Shitty Advice
13. Touching Yourself is Evolutionary, Don’t Blow Yourself
14. I’ve Been Caught Masturbating Twice
15. Onstage Q-A (#15-29)

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Joe Rogan – Talking Monkeys in Space” is featured in widescreen.  Lighting is well done and camera angles are well-placed as cameras are placed on front of the stage, middle of the aisle, above the stage, behind the stage (from an angle), a camera on the audience to capture their reactions and more.    Editing is well-done, no dizzying cuts as the camera is fixed on Rogan for a good length of time and not having to cut to every angle all over the venue.

As for audio, audio is in Dolby Digital and for the most part, Rogan’s dialogue is clear and understandable through the front channels.  Audience can be well-heard as well.  Personally, I preferred to have my home theater receiver set on stereo on all channels for a more immersive soundscape.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Joe Rogan – Talking Monkeys in Space” comes with the following special features:

• Behind the Scenes - (7:54) Joe Rogan talks about going on the road with his friends and having a great time.  Behind the scenes footage of the group hanging out and talking about going up on stage.  Featuring how Rogan and others release their stress and also interviews with the audience after the performance.
• Talking Monkeys in Columbus – (8:46) Joe Rogan visiting Columbus, Ohio and what went on while he was in the area.  What was happening before the filming of his live performance and more.

Joe Rogan is a pretty cool comedian as he is a no-compromise, tells us like it is type of guy.  For “Talking Monkeys in Space”, his routine went very well with the audience and everyone was quite supportive and laughing to the jokes.

Rogan talks about being an new father, growing older (ie. the gray hair on his balls), pot, people that piss him off such as Ted Haggard and Dr. Phil, masturbation, Ron Jeremy and more.

Needless to say, it’s been awhile since we’ve seen a comedian with a more direct, more raw type of delivery since Comedy Central’s Greg Giraldo “Midlife Vices” DVD.  He takes topics from his own life to current topics and has fun with it.  Granted, some may find his jokes to be offensive but personally, I found “Talking Monkeys in Space” to be enjoyable.  Rogan and the audience had a great time and it shows on the DVD.

It is important to note that compared to other Comedy Central DVD’s, Rogan’s comedy performance is the shortest at 40-minutes long.  But the comedian comes back for a Q&A session that lasts for about half-an-hour and to the questions are quite hilarious as people want to know about Rogan working on “Fear Factor” and working on “UFC” and like his comedy, Rogan tells it straight of how he feels about his co-workers (which he is very respectful) and also answers questions about pot and surprisingly, he is definitely well-versed as he gets into the technical specifics of how certain drugs affect the brain.  Rogan is a major supporter of medical and recreational use of cannabis and it’s definitely shows how passionate he is during his routine and his Q&A session.

But Joe Rogan is definitely a comedian that I definitely respect.  He loves comedy, he loves being a comedian but he dislikes comedians who taint the comedy scene and steals others material.  So, when you see him onstage, his jokes are not regurgitated material of things we heard before, his comedy comes from how he is and knowing how to make those topics funny. Granted, his jokes may be a bit too much for some…so if you are sensitive to jokes about masturbation and pot, “Talking Monkeys in Space” may not be for you.

But if you’re not too serious or sensitive and just want to laugh and have a good time, definitely give Rogan’s new comedy DVD a chance!

Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

Hilarious, sexy, fun and idiotic! If you are a fan of fantasy adventure TV series or film and also enjoy comedy with mature humor, “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition” is a fun and crazy DVD release worth checking out!

Images courtesy of © 2010 MRC II Distribution Company, L.P. and Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition

DURATION: 6 Episodes (162 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Widescreen, Dolby Digital

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED (Parental Advisory: Explicit Content.  Warning this Program is Recommended for Mature Audiences Only.  It Contains Adult Language and Situations)

RELEASE DATE: March 23, 2010

Created by Peter Knight

Directed by Alex Hardcastle

Written by Peter Knight and Brad Johnson

Producer: Mario Stylianides

Co-Produer: Katy McCaffrey

Line Producer: Donna Molloy

Music by Mark Thomas

Cinematography by Rob Kitzmann

Edited by Thomas M. Bolger, Liana Del Giudice, Simn Reglar

Casting by Nicole Abellera, Sarah Crowe, Zsolt Csutak, Jeanne McCarthy

Production Design by Grenville Horner

Art Direction: Csaba Stork

Set Decoration by Zoltan Horvath

Costume Design by Alexandra Caulfield

Featuring the voices of:

Sean Maguire as Krod Mandoon

Matt Lucas as Chancellor

Kevin Hart as Zezelryck

India de Beaufort as Aneka

Steve Speirs as Loquasto

Marques Ray as Bruce

Alex Macqueen as Barnabus

James Murray as Ralph Longshaft

Remie Purtill-Clarke as Cute girl

John Rhus-Davies as Grimshank

Krod Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire, Comedy Central’s first foray into the action-adventure fantasy realm, chronicles the deeds of the brave but emotionally insecure Krod and his ineffectual band of freedom fighters—Aneka, the lovely warrioress who uses her beauty (and body) to get she wants; Zezelryck, the sorcerer who’s more mouth than magic; Loquasto, Krod’s dim-witted (and poorly-shooting) servant; and Bruce, known more for his extravagant outfits than his prowess in battle—in their struggle against the evil Chancellor Dongalor (Matt Lucas, Little Britain USA).

With the popularity of shows such as “Xena”, “Legend of the Seeker”, “Merlin” and movies such as the “Lord of the Rings”, what if there was a comedy version based on those type of shows?

Well, a British/American comedy titled “Kröd Mandoon and the Flaming Sword of Fire” was created by Peter A. Knight and mature humor inspired by “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”, “Get Smart” and “The Simpsons”.

The name which is is derived from a nickname of a kid that was picked on back in Peter’s childhood (the name backwards is “dork”), “Kröd Mandoon and the Flaming Sword” is filmed in Budapest and six episodes were aired on Comedy Central and now the uncensored BBC version is featured on DVD and will be released on March 23rd.

“Kröd Mandoon and the Flaming Sword” is about a rag tag band of freedom fighters who are literally inept but somehow managed to get the job done.  The main characters of the series are:

The Freedom Fighters

Krod Mandoon (played by Sean Maguire, “The Class”, “Eve”, “Off Centre”) – The leader of the group of freedom fighters who has a powerful sword that has the ability to bursts into flame whenever Krod is in battle.  Is believed by General Arcadius to be “The Golden One” as written in prophecy.

Aneka (played by India de Beaufort, “One Tree Hill”, “The Basil Brush Show”) – Kröd’s girlfriend who is a pagan warrioress who uses her sex as a weapon.  But because Kröd is unable to deal with her openness with her sexuality, she breaks up with him.

Zezelryck (played by Kevin Hart, “Drillbit Taylor”, “Epic Movie”, “Scary Movie 4″) – A young warlock who seems like he doesn’t know how to use his magical spells at first.

Loquasto (played by Steve Spiers, “No Heroics”, “City of Vice”) – A servant/slave of Kröd who is a member of the pig-like race known as the Grobble.  Uses a crossbow as his weapon but doesn’t know how to use it accurately and ends up hurting Krod.  Despite his inability with a weapon, he has a strong smell and taste.

Bruce (played by Marques Ray, “Nick Cannon Presents: Short Circuitz) – The flamboyant gay man and lover of Mandoon’s late mentor General Acadius.

General Arcadus (played by Roger Allam) – Mandoo’s late mentor and lover of Bruce.  Appears in spirit form to help Kröd Mandoon.

The Antagonists

Chancellor Donold David Dongalor (played by Matt Lucas) – The Sociopathic Chancellor.  He and Kröd trained as warriors and both developed a rivalry towards each other.  He kills people who try to get in his way or anyone who annoys him.

Barnabus (played by Alex MacQueen) – The right-hand man of the Chancellor.  He is the voice of logic for Dongalor.

“Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition” contains the first five episodes of the TV series extended and uncensored.  It’s important to note that the second episode “Golden Powers” is combined with the first episode, thus the first episode on the DVD is 54 minutes instead of 28 minutes.

Here is a brief synopsis of each episode:

• EPISODE 1 – Wench Trouble – Kröd and friends try to save General Arcadius, his mentor and leader of the resistance against the evil Xanusian Empire.  Krod learns from Arcadius that he is “The Golden One”.
• EPISODE 2 – Our Bounties, Ourselves – Chancellor Dongalor puts up a bounty on Kröd and his gang’s heads.  Thus the group must fend off bounty hunters.
• EPISODE 3 – O Biclops, Where Are Thou? Kröd is nominated to an Elite Resistance Council but he first must get a precious gem away from a deadly cyclops.
• EPISODE 4 – Succubi: The Dawn’s Early Light – Kröd is given a mission by Ralph’s warlock Grimshank to light a beacon that will alert resistance leaders that Dongalor is planning to activate the eye.
• EPISODE 5 – The Thrilla in the Villa – Kröd and the gang sneak into Ralph’s palace when they think Grimshank is working for Dongalor.  Meanwhile, Dongalor plans to unleash the Eye of Gulma Grymna.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition” is presented in widescreen.  The series is primarily shot outdoors and benefits from the outdoor lighting.  Location shots in Hungary are absolutely beautiful and costume and production design are well-done for the series.

Audio is presented in Dolby Digital English stereo.  Dialogue is clear and understandable.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition” features the following special features:

• Behind the Scenes with Kevin Hart – (4:35) Kevin Hart gives us a hilarious behind-the-scenes look at the making of “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire” from costume and set design and more.
• Cast Interviews – (10:45) The cast talk about their characters in relation to the series and their feelings of playing the character.
• Outtakes – (7:22) Bloopers from “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire”.
• Alternate Opening Sequence – (2:22) An alternate opening that introduces the freedom fighters.
• Deleted Scenes – (3:52) A total of five deleted scenes.
• Extended Scenes – (8:20) A total of nine extended scenes.
• Hunt the Hungarian – If this is turned on, if one presses enter on their remote at the right time during an episode, you can access easter egg screen test footage.

“Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition” is a hilarious series and contains the sexual humor that you would expect from a Comedy Central driven series.

Granted, the humor of the series will be a positive and negative depending on the viewer.  For those who love TV series such as “Merlin”, “Legend of the Seeker” or “Xena” and those who enjoy the dramatic elements and action sequences as well,  may not find those deep moments in “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition”.  Especially as the main dramatic element is probably Kröd worried about how many men Aneka has slept with, her sexual tactics and how many cartwheels she does while not wearing underwear.  But the series manages to have some fun during the action sequences as the gang of freedom fighters are often in danger’s way.

There is plenty of humor but to some, the gags may seem offensive to some.  There is a controversy with the character of Bruce as the gay community found the flamboyant gay character as offensive.  Series creator Sean Maguire said the producers expected a backlash when it comes to a stereotypical character.  So, it depends on the viewer and how sensitive they are to the jokes.

Overall, “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire” is a naughty and humorous series.

It’s quite interesting to have a fantasy series with the main character to be quite inept and the majority of the gang being useless to near idiotic but somehow they manage to get the job done.  In someway, one can see the inspiration from a series such as “Get Smart” and “Monty Python’s Holy Grail” in this series.  But what it all comes down to is one’s sense of humor.

For those wondering about the sexual part of the series, there is no nudity or any obscene language in this television series but there is simulated sex featured especially in the fourth episode of this DVD.   If anything, the series definitely utilizes the beautiful India de Beaufort throughout the series.  Her character of Aneka is a sexual pagan who loves sex and uses it as a weapon.  Despite her love for Kröd, it’s part of her nature and her tradition.  And thus the sexual humor in the series.  So, probably not a series you want to watch around the children.

Personally, I found “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire” to be a fun, humorous series that never gets too serious.   And for me, it was good to see something this crazy and different for a change for Comedy Central.

I don’t know where the future is for “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire” or if there will be any more episodes but for the most part, if you enjoy fantasy adventure series and mature humor, definitely give “Kröd Mandoon and The Flaming Sword of Fire: Special BBC Edition” a chance!

SOUTH PARK: THE COMPLETE THIRTEENTH SEASON (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

The 13th season of “South Park” features more of those “that’s so f’d up!” and hilarious moments with episodes making fun of dead celebrities of 2009, Somalian pirates, the Jonas Brothers, Kanye West and more.  If you are easily offended, “South Park” is definitely not for you.  But if you are open to provocative comedy that pushes-the-button, then definitely check out season 13!

Images courtesy of © 2010 Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: SOUTH PARK: THE COMPLETE THIRTEENTH SEASON

DURATION: 308 minutes (14 episodes)

BLU-RAY DISC INFORMATION: Widescreen, Dolby Digital, English Stereo

RATED:  Not Rated (Parental Advisory: Explicit Content, Warning: This program is recommended for mature audiences only.  It contains adult language and situations)

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RELEASE DATE: March 16, 2010

Created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone

Featuring the voice talent of:

Trey Parker (voice of Eric Cartman, Stan Marsh)

Matt Stone (voice of Kyle Broflovski, Leopold ‘Butters’ Stotch, Kenny McCormick)

Mona Marshall (voice of Sheila Broflovski, Linda Stotch)

April Stewart (voice of Liane Cartman, Sharon Marsh, Britney Spears, Wendy Testaburger, Principal Victoria, Michelle Obama)

Kyle McCulloch (voice of Gary)

Adrien Beard (voice of Token Williams)

All fourteen uncensored episodes from South Park’s thirteenth season are now available in this exclusive three-disc set. Roll with the boys as they save the economy, the whales, and a bunch of dead celebrities all while discovering the joys of Fish Sticks. For them, it’s all part of growing up in South Park!

Since 1997, “South Park” has been a controversial but yet a longest running, highest rated hit for Comedy Central.

With 195 episodes broadcast and a 14th season about to begin on March 17th, the animated series which features the children of South Park, Colorado featuring the characters of Stan Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, Eric Cartman and Kenny McCormick and friends continues to be a series that dares “going there” and being as provocative as ever.

In the thirteenth season of “South Park”, the series utilizes topics that were popular in 2009.   From celebrities such as the Jonas Brothers, the death of Michael Jackson, the Somalian pirates, America’s economy and more.

Here is a brief synopsis of what is included on “South Park: The Complete Thirteenth Season” on DVD:

DISC 1:

• Episode 1301 – The Ring – Kenny is dating a girl who is known to give oral sex but in this case, she will do anything if he takes her to a Jonas Brothers concert.
• Episode 1302 – The Coon – Cartman wants to become a superhero and thus he takes on the identity of “The Coon”.  But when another person starts donning the costume, becoming a superhero and calling himself “Mysterion”, Cartman who is jealous, will do all he can to stop Mysterion.
• Episode 1303 – Margaritaville – South Park is having to deal with the failed economy and thus Randy urges the town to adopt anti-consumerism.
• Episode 1304 – Eat, Pray, Queef - “The Queef Sisters” becomes a big hit on television, even pre-empting “Terrance and Phillip”.  But the men in America are put off when women queef, while the women feel they are not doing anything different when men fart.
• Episode 1305 – Fishsticks – When Cartman and Jimmy create a joke about “Fishsticks”, Kanye West is offended when people use the joke on him and call him a gay fish.

DISC 2:

• Episode 1306 – Pinewood Derby – Randy wants Stan to win first-place in the Pinewood Derby Race but when he uses a high-powered magnet to propel him to outer space, the car is seen by an alien who takes matters to his own hands.
• Episode 1307 – Fatbeard – With Somalian pirates making off with millions of dollars, Cartman thinks these pirates are the same type of pirates of the past and he, Ike and Butters become inspired to join the Somalians.
• Episode 1308 – Dead Celebrities – Ike is being contacted by dead celebrities who are unable to crossover because of Michael Jackson not accepting his own death.  So, the boys try to help Ike (possessed by Michael Jackson).
• Episode 1309 – Butters’ Bottom Bitch – When Butters get his first kiss with a girl for $5, he comes up with an idea to make money by creating a kissing business and ends up becoming a pimp.
• Episode 1310 – W.T.F. – When the kids go to their first WWE match, they are inspired to create their own wrestling federation for South Park’s rednecks.

DISC 3:

• Episode 1311 – Whale Whores – The Japanese are killing all the dolphins and whales and Stan decides he will not take it anymore and do something about it.
• Episode 1312 – The F Word – The kids of South Park want the bikers out of their town because they think they are gay and thus they start to use the derogatory gay word to describe bikers and thus trying to change the term to describe bikers.
• Episode 1313 – Dances with Smurfs – Cartman becomes the new announcement kid at school and uses the platform to talk about anything he wants.
• Episode 1314 – PEE – The kid’s spend a day at PiPi’s Spash Town but then disaster strikes and Cartman blames the minorities.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

It’s important to note that for this season, I am reviewing the DVD edition and not the Blu-ray version.  While  “SOUTH PARK” is not exactly a series you are looking for extreme special effects or action scenes, for this latest season there is a little bit more detail and texturing and plenty of vibrant colors.

As for audio, audio is presented in Dolby Digital.  If anything, the Comedy Central intro really puts your front speakers for a challenge with its heavy bass.  But overall, dialogue is clear and again, this is not a series where you would expect any major uses of audio.  But dialogue is clear and understandable.  Music segments definitely are heard quite clearly and more pronounced.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“SOUTH PARK: THE COMPLETE THIRTEENTH SEASON” comes with mini commentaries for each episode by Trey Parker and Matt Stone.  These commentaries are short (about five or more minutes long) as they discuss the episode.  Outside of the commentaries, featured on disc one are:

• Inside XBOX: A Behind-the-Scenes Tour of South Park Studios - (4:36) XBOX’s Major Nelson interviews the people behind-the-scenes of the production of “South Park”.
• Deleted Scenes – (7:14) Featuring several deleted scenes from various episodes.

“SOUTH PARK” is one of those series that I’ve watched since my college years that I can’t seem to stop watching.  No matter how far the series goes, how offensive the series may get, I don’t really get upset.  It’s because the series is known for pushing the button and taking things as far as Comedy Central will allow them.

Granted, this is a series that pushes the button and people not familiar with “South Park” are going to get offended.  These episodes are uncensored and are filled with plenty of profanity and some with violence and blood and a series targeted for mature audiences.  You do not want children watching this series.

A lot of the episodes from the thirteenth season has generated plenty of comments of “oh, crap…that is so f’d up”. From the first episode of the thirteenth season with Kenny wanting oral sex from his girlfriend, you know where this season is headed and Trey Parker and Matt Stone try to use the topics of that year and run with it and see how far they can go.  From jokes on the Jonas Brothers, to celebrities that died in 2009, the failed economy, kids becoming pimps, the slaughter of whales/dolphins, even Cartman singing Lady GaGa’s “Poker Face”… A lot of crazy situations this season and plenty of topics the crew had to work with that year and it all comes down to one’s sensibilities and if they have an open mind to comedy that has been offensively funny for the last 13 years.

If you are easily offend, then “South Park” is definitely not for you.  But for those who have been long time fans, we enjoy the series and enjoy seeing how far Parker and Stone can go. “SOUTH PARK: THE COMPLETE THIRTEENTH SEASON” goes even farther than previous seasons and pushes the limit of what can be shown on cable television.  And again, each episode is featured in its uncensored glory on Blu-ray and DVD.

Definitely prepare for some surprises in this thirteen season of “South Park” and even more of the “oh, crap that’s really f’d up!” moments and yet another entertaining, humorous and provocative season of  “South Park”.

Sinbad – Where U Been? (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

We often hear about comedians during their peak years but for Sinbad, the man has kept audiences entertained for decades and this latest Comedy Central DVD “Where U Been?” shows that the man has shows no signs of comedic decline!  From tears running down the eyes of the audience from laughing so hard, this DVD features one of the best, if not the best Sinbad comedic performance I have seen. Also a chance to see the comedian jam musically as well.  Highly recommended!

Images courtesy of © 2010 Afros & Bellbottoms Productions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Sinbad – Where U Been

DURATION: 90 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Widescreen, Dolby Digital Stereo

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED – Explicit Content.  Warning: This program is recommended for mature audiences only.  It contains adult language and situations.

RELEASE DATE: February 23, 2010

Directed by Chuck Vinson

Executive Produced by Sinbad, Brian Volk-Weiss

Produced by Jay Chapman

Co-Produced by Maria Rivera Savoy

Edited by Brenda Carlson

Music Coordinator: Joann Tominaga

Starring:

Sinbad

Greg Phillinganes

Alex Allen

Trevor Lawrence

Gemi Taylor

Alex Al

Gary Bias

Patches Stewart

Reggie Young

Stephanie Spruill

Fred Dinkins

Dawnn Lewis

Darryl Phinnessee

Judith Hill

Lamont Hook

Legendary comedian Sinbad is back in this brand new live concert special.  Packed with over 45 minutes of material not seen on Comedy Central (not even by his momma).  This exclusive special edition DVD is a must-own for any true comedy/funk music fan.  Get your copy today…and I am not talking about the bootleg version.

I have been watching the comedian Sinbad for years.    From winning “Star Search” back in 1985 and seeing him on television from “A Different World”, “The Sinbad Show” and the host of “Vibe”.

But for a comedian who has been on television for nearly two decades, when you haven’t been seen for several years, people start to question if you’re dead and in the case of the comedian, rumors filled the social media realm and Wikipedia that the comedian has died.  That was until Dec. 2009 when the comedian was featured in the media for his tax problems.

Fortunately, the comedian hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down.  In fact, Sinbad’s latest Comedy Central DVD “Where U Been?” is a sign that there are comedians that still can entertain and get the audience going crazy after a performance.

As his Comedy Central performance will be airing on television, the DVD features 45 minutes of material not shown on television.  This latest performance is actually one of the best performances I have seen from Sinbad and that is watching him perform his comedy routines for years.

Sinbad goes into his routine about where he has been all these years, to his financial problems but easily transitions to that he’s no different from millions Americans who are facing hard times during the country’s economic slump.  From topics of President Obama, to relationships, taking questions from the audience especially from the ladies of what problems they have with their men and so much covered on this DVD.

The comedy chapters for this DVD are:

1. Intro
2. Things U Don’t Know About Me/We Have a Black President
3. My People Coming in Late/Revealing Truth (High Yellow)
4. Keepin’ It Real/Times are Tight
5. Men Quit Going to Strip Clubs/Why Women Hate Us
6. Marriage is Work/Old Men Dating Young Girls
7. Growing Old Together/I Can’t See
8. Audience Questions About Men and Women
9. Men Training to be Husbands/My Mom Worked My Dad
10. Ladies What Are U Mad About?
11. Men are Simple/Men Snoring
12. Men Share Menopause/Men are Messy
13. Sex Changes After Marriage
14. Grown Kids At the House/Kids Change Everything
15. We Can’t Wait ‘Til You Have Kids/My Father Cured My A.D.D.
16. I Hate Taking Kids to Sports Practice/Quit Trying to Look Young
17. I Am Falling Apart/Medical Marijuana
18. Christian the Lion/Living with Nature
19. Little Pocket Dogs/Immigration
20. How to Get a Job/My Young People
21. At 53 Years Old U Don’t Care/At 17 Years Old U Are Not Ready
22. The Customer Is Not Always Right
23. I Am Not a Thrill Seeker
24. Bringing the Band Out
25. Let’s Get It On
26. Ol’ school
27. Hollywood Swinging
28. Word Up

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Sinbad – Where U Been?” is featured in widescreen.  Various camera angles featuring closeups of Sinbad, behind the stage, side of the venues,  close up of the audience, just capturing the energy and mood of that evening.  Editing is well done, no dizzying several second cuts, you get various camera angles but giving your eyes enough time to enjoy the performance.

The camera angles on the audience shows people who are just laughing hysterically and getting into the performance.  This is what I love seeing, where the audience is just digging the comedy, some looking like their guts are going to bust and even some with tears coming down their eyes because they are laughing so much.   This is rare to see on a Comedy Central comedy DVD and definitely a major positive for this DVD release!

Audio is in Dolby Digital stereo.  The performance is front channel driven but for those with modern home theater receivers can easily set the audio for stereo on all channels for a more immersive soundtrack.  Sinbad’s vocals come out crystal clear, the audience laughing can be heard very well and of course, the ending music performance sounds magnificent.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Sinbad – Where U Been?” comes with the following special feature:

• Behind the Scenes with Sinbad – (17:54) Sinbad talking about how people have asked him where he has been despite performing at a different city every weekend.   Also, performing with various musicians and preparing for the music segment of the DVD.

After watching “Where U Been”, you literally come to realize why Sinbad is a legend.  And before anyone starts thinking, old school comedian that you watched in the ’80s and ’90s, don’t even think that because Sinbad may be on top of his game then but the man is still on top of his game now.  You can feel that energy with the crowd that night.   There are many Comedy Central DVD’s that I’ve reviewed and not many can keep that energy between the comedian and its audience for 90 minutes.  The audience was literally on their feet and just into the performance.

The comedian doesn’t have to launch into any shock value jokes, he knows his demographic and knows that there are young and old in the crowd and he keeps it real, keeps it fun and makes sure that people are being entertained.

To end the performance, Sinbad and big name musicians take to the stage to play some music and even get the crowd going with their rendition of Cameo’s 1986 hit “Word Up!”.  Big surprises with “Another World” actress Dawnn Lewis showing up, talented keyboardist Greg Phillinganes along with many other talented musicians and also Michael Jackson “THIS IS IT” background singers Darryl Phinnessee, Judith Hill and Lamont Van Hook singing on backup for this special as well.

Just a lively, energetic performance by Sinbad.  Hilarious and fun and definitely a magnificent performance worth watching.   As mentioned, I have seen Sinbad’s performances but this is one of the best comedic performance from him that I have seen.  Especially to see the crowd so into the performance and as mentioned, tears running down the eyes of the audience because they are laughing uncontrollably.  It’s one of those comedy performance nights that you just wish is captured on camera and in this case, that magic that night was.   Just awesome!

“Sinbad – Where U Been?” is Sinbad at his best, showing that over two decades later, he still has it and definitely a highly recommended Comedy Central DVD!

The Sarah Silverman Program – Season 2, Volume 2 (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

Hilarious, fun and just all out insane!  “The Sarah Silverman” program may not be for everyone but for those who want to watch one of the most crudest, craziest TV shows currently on cable television, definitely give this DVD a chance!  A solid DVD release with special features galore!

Image courtesy of © 2010 Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: The Sarah Silverman Program – Season 2, Volume 2

DURATION: 220 minutes (10 episodes)

DVD INFORMATION: Full Screen, Dolby Digital

RATED: Not Rated (Parental Advisory: Explicit Content Warning: This Program is recommended for mature audiences only.  It contains adult language and situations)

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RELEASE DATE: February 9, 2010

Directed by Wayne McClammy, Rob Schrab

Written by Dan Harmon, Rob Schrab, Sarah Silverman, Dan Sterling, Dan Fybel, Rich Rinaldi, Jon Schroeder, Harris Wittels, Eric Falconer, Chris Romano, Eric Schaar

Executive Producer: Rob Schrab, Heidi Herzon, Dan Sterling, Sarah Silverman

Producer: Chris Romano, Eric Falconer, Erin O’Malley, Jon Schroeder, Todd Barry

Associate Producer: Stephanie Meurer, Denise Pleune, Megan Murphy, Chris Smirnoff

Music by Adam Berry

Cinematography by Rhet W. Bear

Edited by Larry Block, Jeff Siebenick

Casting by Jeanne McCarthy, Nicole Abellera

Series Production Design by Michael Whetstone

Series Art Direction by Mark Satterlee

Series Set Decoration by Jane Shirkes

Series Costume Design by Paula Elins

Starring:

Sarah Silverman as Sarah Silverman

Laura Silverman as Laura Silverman

Brian Posehn as Brian Spukowski

Steve Agee as Stee Myron

Jay Johnston as Officer Jay McPherson

Join Sarah Silverman and friends for the second season of her critically acclaimed Comedy Central series. Watch as she gets high for the first time, drives into Osama bin Laden (or at least people she believes look like him), suffers from bed-wetting and becomes homeless. Had enough yet? Well she also mocks the institution of marriage…by marrying her dog. Disgusted? Offended? Think we’re lying? Then watch now and see for yourself!

Since 2007, “The Sarah Silverman Program” has been a staple of the cable network Comedy Central and the ultimate satire of wholesome television programs.  Definitely not politically correct and not for the serious minded, “The Sarah Silverman Program” is set to start its third season on television.

With the first six episodes of season two of “The Sarah Silverman Program” was released back in Oct. 2008 and now the remaining ten episodes of the second season will be released on DVD on Feb. 2010.

The series revolves around an immature woman named Sarah and her relationship with her family and friends.  The main characters of the series are:

Sarah Silverman – (played by Sarah Silverman) The immature, potty-mouth, childish and insensitive young woman who acts on impulse.  Unemployed and takes care of her dog Doug.

Laura Silverman – (played by Laura Silverman) The younger sister of Sarah, who works as a registered nurse and feels that its her duty to take care of her unemployed young sister.  Laura is dating Officer Jay McPherson.

Brian Spukowski – (played by Brian Posehn) Sarah’ gay neighbor who is dating Steve and loves pot.

Steve Myron – (played by Steve Agee) Sarah’s other gay neighbor who is dating Bryan and loves pot.

Officer Jay McPherson – (played by Jay Johnston) A police officer who is dating Laura Silverman and can’t stand Sarah.

“The Sarah Silverman Program – Season 2, Volume 2″ consists of ten episodes spread out on two DVD discs.  Here is a list of episodes with spoiler-less summaries:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 13 – High, It’s Sarah – Sarah and Brian get stoned and realize that they can accomplish good things when they are stoned.
• EPISODE 14 – The Mongolian Beef - Sarah is not thrilled that her Russian ancestors were raped by Mongolians and decides to sue the Mongolians for causing them distress (and giving Laura Asian features).
• EPISODE 15 – Making New Friends – Sarah decides that she needs new friends, so he dumps them.  Meanwhile, Steve’s use of marijuana causes him to have an interesting condition.
• EPISODE 16 – Patriot Tact – Sarah keeps driving into people with beards, fearing that they may be Osama Bin Laden.

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 17 – Pee - Sarah has a bedwetting problem when she sleeps, so she decides to stop sleeping.  Meanwhile, Brian’s beard gets stuck on an escalator.
• EPISODE 18 – There’s No Place Like Homeless – Sarah loses her keys to get into her home, so now she lives her life as a homeless person.
• EPISODE 19 – Fetus Don’t Fail Me Now – Sarah thinks she’s bloated when in fact, she’s nine months pregnant.
• EPISODE 20 – I Thought My Dad Was Dead, But It Turns Out He’s Not - Sarah’s dead father reappears into her life and together they start up a rock band.
• EPISODE 21 – Kangamangus – Sarah wants to leave a legacy of herself, so she creates the slang “Ozay” and tries to make it popular.
• EPISODE 22 – Vow Wow – Sarah makes an announcement that she is engaged to her dog Doug.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“The Sarah Silverman Program – Season 2, Volume 2″ is presented in full screen.  Picture quality for the series is good.  Audio is featured in Dolby Digital and is front and center channel driven.  Dialogue and music is clear and understandable.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“The Sarah Silverman Program – Season 2, Volume 2″ comes with the following special features:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 13 – High, It’s Sarah Audio Commentary - Audio Commentary by Wayne McClammy and Steve Agee.
• EPISODE 14 – The Mongolian Beef Audio Commentary - Audio Commentary by Sarah Silverman, Laura Silverman, Rob Schrab and Daniel Sterling.
• EPISODE 15 – Making New Friends Audio Commentary – Audio Commentary by Wayne McClammy and Steve Agee.
• EPISODE 16 – Patriot Tact Audio Commentary - Audio Commentary by Sarah Silverman, Laura Silverman, Rob Schrab and Daniel Sterling.
• 125 Slates – (1:01) Featuring all 125 slates.
• Steve & Sarah: Welcome to the Blog – (:50) Sarah Silverman and Steve Agee promoting the blog.
• Trailer – (1:11) The trailer for Comedy Central’s “The Sarah Silverman Program” season 3.
• Lazer Rage – (3:35) The making of the episode “I Thought My Dad Was Dead, But It Turns Out He’s Not”.
• Mark Cohen – (3:07) A featurette about Mark Cohen playing Max Silverman.
• Season 2B – (1:43) The crew and cast talks about season 2B which was caused because of the writer’s strike.
• Steve’s Videos – (3:39) The making of Steve’s video for the episode “Mongolian Beef”.
• Working with Garry Marshall – (2:54) The cast talks about working with Garry Marshall for the episode “High, It’s Sarah”.
• The New Friend Song – (3:15) The making of the “Making New Friends” song.
• Finding New Friends – (4:01) The cast talks about “High, It’s Sarah”.
• The Show Gets High – (3:46) The making of the episode “Patriot Tact”.
• Eggnog Brothers – (2:05) How the “Eggnog Brothers” was developed and used for the episode “Patriot Tact”.
• Being a Mermaid – (3:58) The making o f the mermaid sequences for the episode “Pee”.
• Trapped on an Escalator – (2:48) How Brian’s beard gets stuck in an escalator for the episode “Pee” and how he was sick when the show was filmed.
• Trapped in the Bathroom – (3:27) Brian Posehn and Steve Agee talk about “Fetus Don’t Fail Me Now” and how the idea of the bathroom episode came up.
• Sarah’s Baby’s Birth – (4:24) The making of the episode “Fetus Don’t Fail Me Now”
• The Fake Words – (4:05) The crew talks about Sarah Silverman creating words in the series and where these words came from.

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 17 – Pee Audio Commentary - Audio Commentary by Sarah Silverman, Rob Schrab and Daniel Sterling.
• EPISODE 18 – There’s No Place Like Homeless Audio Commentary - Audio commentary by Brian Posehn, Steve Agee and Jay Johnston.
• EPISODE 19 – Fetus Don’t Fail Me Now Audio Commentary – Audio Commentary by Sarah Silverman, Rob Schrab and Daniel Sterling.
• EPISODE 20 – I Thought My Dad Was Dead, But It Turns Out He’s Not Audio Commentary - Audio Commentary by Wayne McClammy and Steve Agee.
• EPISODE 21 – Kangamangus Audio Commentary - Two audio commentaries.  One with Brian Posehn, Steve Agee and Jay Johnston.  And the other by Rob Schrab and Daniel Sterling.
• EPISODE 22 – Vow Wow Audio Commentary - Audio Commentary by Rob Schrab and Daniel Sterling.
• Webisode for Fantastismart – (2:23) Commercial for Fantastimart’s special deals.
• Webisode for Sarah’s Magic Purse – (4:19) Sarah uses her magical purse to create things from her purse.
• Webisode for Steve and Brian – (3:16) Steve and Brian and their friends are abducted by aliens.

“The Sarah Silverman Program” is quite an interesting, hilarious and definitely not a politically correct series as it parodies wholesome comedy shows.  Easily creating a unique comedy TV series will either make one feel that its hilarious, crazy and fun or unfunny, immature, insensitive and f’d up.  But if you are watching Comedy Central programming and have enjoyed series such as “The Dave Chappelle” show, “South Park” or even “Drawn Together”, more than likely, you’re not going to be hurt or shocked by the content seen on “The Sarah Silverman Program”.

The second part of the second season is even crazier than ever. It seems that the writer’s strike gave the writers of the show enough time to craft some imaginative ideas and pushing the boundaries more than ever.  From Sarah taking drugs in order to do good, to suing Mongolians for the rape of her ancestors and making friends with a random group of people, Sarah getting married to her dog.  Insane!   Each episode is so hilarious and you can’t help but laugh at the various things you see.  From Sarah pulling down her pants and making sounds by putting a can under her crotch, Steve’s big man boobs getting caught in a window, Brian’s beard getting caught in an escalator or both guys just farting on objects to see what kind of fart smell they can produce.  So crazy!  So hilarious… Jokes featured on each episode that can be seen as so wrong but yet, you can’t help but keep watching!

As for the DVD release of “The Sarah Silverman Program – Season 2, Volume 2″, although only having ten hilarious episodes, both DVD’s are full of special features.  Every episode has audio commentary and in addition, special features that go into the making of these episodes and how the ideas for the episodes came to be and more.  So, there is a lot of content included on this latest DVD series to keep fans happy.

Alas, “The Sarah Silverman Program” is not for everyone.  If you are serious-minded, dislike dumb jokes, fart jokes, insensitive jokes, etc.  this show is not for you.  But if you do enjoy these Comedy Central shows that push the button, “The Sarah Silverman Program” is one of the craziest, wildest shows showing on cable television.

Overall, a solid Comedy Central DVD release!

Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

Obnoxious, offensive, controversial… But If you can look past all that, ‘Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box” uncensored is absolutely fun and hilarious!  Packed with a board game, drinking game and more, this box set is definitely one of the wildest and craziest DVD box sets to come from Comedy Central.

Image courtesy of © 2009 Comedy Partners. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box

DURATION: 36 Episodes (790 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: Full Screen, Dolby Digital

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED (Explicit Content, Warning: This Program is Recommended for Mature Audiences Only.  It Contains Adult Language and Situations)

RELEASED: November 17, 2009

Created by Dave Jeser and Matthew Silverstein

Directed by Dwayne Carey-Hill, Frank Marino, Peter Avanzino, Rich Moore, Stephen Sandoval, Ray Claffey, James Purdum

Written by Dave Jeser, Matthew Silverstein, Jordan Young, Erik Sommers, Elijah Aron, Reed Agnew, Bill Freiberger

Executive Producer: Dave Jeser, Matthew Silverstein, Bill Freiberger

Produced by Jonathan Kimmel, Claudia Katz, J. Michael Mendel, Kara Vallow

Co-Produced: Erik Sommers, David Lewman, Craig DiGregorio, Joe Liss

Associate Producer: Elise Belknap, Jeff Goldstein, Joe Goyette

Animation Producer: Dina Benadon

Music by Eban Schletter

Edited by Damon P. Yoches, Jim Miley

Casting by Dawn Hershey

Featuring the voices of:

Adam Carolla as Spanky Ham

Jess Harnell as Captain Hero

Abbey McBride as Ling-Ling

Jack Plotnick as Xandir P. Whifflebottom

Tara Strong as Toot Braunstein/Princess Clara

Cree Summer as Foxxy Love

James Arnold Taylor as Wooldor Sockbat

Jason Huber as Gash

Jimmy Kimmel as Mrs. Ham

The Drawn Together gang is back and this time they’re bringing the party home with them. In addition to reliving your favorite episodes from all three seasons of basic cable’s most-offensive animated reality show, you and your friends can now play as each of the characters in The Drawn Together Board Game!, partake in the Get the DT’s Drinking Game, or show your inner wild child by participating in the Drawn Together Truth or Dare Game. Once you own this collection, you won’t even have to leave your basement to have a kickass party!

In 2004, Comedy Central unveiled their new animated show that would be as controversial as the network’s flagship animation “South Park” and feature adult dialogue, violence and things that were typically seen as taboo on television was featured on the series.  The series ran for three seasons long and a total of 36 episodes completed before its cancellation in 2007 (supposedly due to the show’s controversial nature and production cost).  But no worries for fans as there is a trailer in the set which advertises a theatrical version of “Drawn Together” and is planned for release on April 2010.

Despite the cancellation from TV, for many fans of the series, the long awaited extended and uncensored complete series of “Drawn Together” is now available on DVD.  And let’s just say that fans who have never purchased the individual seasons will find this DVD box set quite wild with his hilarious and wild special features but it also comes with a “Drawn Together: The Board Game”, “Get the DTS Drinking Game” and “Drawn Together: Truth Or Dare”.  Inside the slip case is a fold out board game (two kinds) for “Drawn Together”, cardboard cutouts for the board game, dice and Q&A cards.

Comedy Central’s “Drawn Together” parodies VH1′s “Surreal Life” where animated characters are put together in a single home and must live together for a certain amount of time while millions of cameras are viewing their every move.

The main characters of “Drawn Together” are:

Princess Clara: Loosely based on popular Disney-like princesses who love to sing, Princess Clara is a racist (even though she doesn’t know it).

Wooldoor Sockbat: Loosely based on Spongebob Squarepants, Wooldor is an extremely annoying character.

Foxxy Love: A mystery solving musician who loves being a tease and being sexy to her castmates.  Likes to be topless and naked at times.

Toot Braunstein: Loosely based on the classic animated character Betty Boop, Toot is fat, has low self-esteem and likes to cut herself with blades.  She wants attention but never gets it because she’s quite disgusting.

Ling-Ling: Loosely based on Pokemon’s Pikachu.  Ling-Ling is an Asia battle card fighting monster and tends to be the feisty one of the housemates.

Xandir: A totally gay video game character and adventurer.  Discovering himself through his new friends.

Spanky Ham: A prankster pig who likes to fart, pee and defecate anywhere he wants.

Captain Hero: Loosely based on Superman.  A not-very-smart hero who underestimates his own strength and powers (like spying on the female housemates while they take a shower and not knowing what the negative health effects of his x-ray vision has on them).

The following episodes are featured in “Drawn Together” Seasons 1-3.  The following are spoiler-less summaries:

SEASON 1:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 1 – HOT TUB – The eight characters for “Drawn Together” meet each other for the first time.  But Clara and Foxxy don’t get along because of Clara’s racist comments.
• EPISODE 2 – CLARA’S DIRTY SECRET – After Clara and Foxxy engage in a kiss, Toot convinces Clara that she may be pregnant but we learn that Clara has been cursed.
• EPISODE 3 – GAY BASH – Xandir comes out of the closet.
• EPISODE 4: REQUIEM FOR A REALITY SHOW – The producers of “Drawn Together” challenge the housemates to win food.
• EPISODE 5: THE OTHER COUSIN – Captain Hero dates Clara’s mentally retarded cousin.  Meanwhile, Toot, Xandir and Wooldoor learn how pleasuring it is to lick Ling-Ling.

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 6: DIRTY PRANKING NUMBER 2 – Clara asks for Spanky’s help in pranking the pizza delivery guy and that is learning how to make a giant poop on a pizza.
• EPISODE 7: THE ONE WHEREIN THERE IS A BIG TWIST, PART 1 – The housemates are ticked off for being exploited on “Drawn Together” and now they go on strike.

SEASON 2:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 8: The One WhereIn There Is a Big Twist (2) – The housemates crash in a deserted island and are greeted by “Survivor” host Jeff Probst.
• EPISODE 9: Foxxy Vs. the Board of Education – Foxxy gets in trouble for not having a Mystery-Solving license and so, she must go back to school for it.
• EPISODE 10: Little Orphan Hero – Captain Hero discovers that his parents aren’t really dead and that his home planet didn’t explode.
• EPISODE 11: Captain Hero’s Marriage Pact – Captain Hero receives a vist from his ex-girlfriend UFG (Unusually Flexible Girl) who reminds him of their pact that when she turns 30, they would get married.
• EPISODE 11: Clum Babies – Wooldor has hit puberty, problem is that he can’t stop playing with himself which leads to him having “clum babies”.
• EPISODE 12: Ghostesses In the Slot Machine – Is there a poltergeist in the house?

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 13: Super Nanny – Captain Hero despises the word “Super” and when he sees a woman on TV called “Super Nanny”, he challenges her.
• EPISODE 14: Terms of Endearment – Captain Hero keeps using his x-ray vision to spy on the ladies in the shower but the effects of his x-ray vision has given Foxxy a brain tumor.
• EPISODE 15: Captain Girl – Wooldoor becomes Captain Hero’s sidekick, Captain Girl.
• EPISODE 16: A Tale of Two Cows – Toot gets invited to her Fat Camp reunion but because her housemates can’t stand her, they don’t want to go with her.
• EPISODE 17: Xandir and Tim, Sitting In a Tree – Reporter Tim Tommerson comes to visit the house and gets close to Xandir.
• EPISODE 18: The Lemon-Aids Walk – Captain Hero is not very good at sports but he wants to prove he can do it, so he takes part in an AIDS walk.
• EPISODE 19: A Very Special Drawn Together Afterschool Special – Xandir wants his housemates to roleplay in order to try out ways he can tell his parents that he is gay.
• EPISODE 20: Alzheimer’s That Ends Well – Clara gets a makeover on her “octopussoir”.  Meanwhile, housemates think that Toot is too old and try to put her into an old folks home.
• EPISODE 21: The Drawn Together Clip Show – The best of “Drawn Together”.

SEASON 3:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 22: Greeks & Freaks – Captain Hero thinks the Greek family next door is a Greek fraternity.
• EPISODE 23: Wooldoor Sockbat’s Giggle-Wiggle Funny Tickle Non-Traditional Progressive Multicultural Roundtable – Clara is worried that Wooldoor’s children show will breed nothing but homosexuality.
• EPISODE 24: Spelling Applebee’s – Foxxy decides to enter a house spelling bee and Captain Hero discovers Clara’s secret sexual fetish.
• EPISODE 25: Unrestrainable Trainable – Captain Hero discovers the identity of the giant attacking the city.
• EPISODE 26: N.R.A. y Ray – The house is robbed and Captain Hero decides to get a gun but the thief happens to be a relative of Foxxy.
• EPISODE 27: Mexican’t Buy Me Love – Captain Hero wants to be cool members of the house.
• EPISODE 28: Lost in Parking Space, Part I – Clara tries to preach about the upcoming rapture to her housemates and alienates them.

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 29: Lost in Parking Space, Part II – Can Foxxy escape the Hot Topic dungeon of torture.
• EPISODE 30: Drawn Together Babies – The Drawn Together babies kill their babysitter and try to cover it up.
• EPISODE 31: Nipple Ring-Ring Goes to Foster Care – Ling-Ling is put in foster care when it is revealed he is three years old.
• EPISODE 32: Foxxy and the Gang Bang – Foxxy has memories of being gang-raped and now she wants revenge.
• EPISODE 33:  Breakfast Food Killer – Wooldoor is selected as a new cereal mascot after the previous beloved mascot is murdered.
• EPISODE 34: Charlotte’s Web of Lies – Spanky Ham tries to seduce Charlotte the stalker and Captain Hero tries to love his archnemesis.
• EPISODE 35: The Elimination Special, Part II: The Elimination – Briank Dunkleman hosts a musical special to decide who will be banished from the house forever.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Drawn Together” is presented in full screen and one of the interesting aspects of the show is that each character is featured in various animation styles such as some characters using a visual style similar to older animation, Clara sports a Disney-style of animation and soft edges, Spanky Ham has a bolder stroke around his character, while Ling-Ling looks similar to Pikachu of the “Pokemon” series and Wooldor’s character design looking similar to Spongebob Squarepants.  Toot has that Betty Boop style of grayscale animation and for the most part, it’s the unique differences of each character design and their behavior that makes “Drawn Together” such a fun show to watch.   Animation is colorful and vibrant and this series is something that you don’t typically see in today’s television, let alone on “Comedy Central”.

Audio is featured in Dolby Digital and English stereo.  Scene is front channel driven and for the most part, audio is clear and understandable.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box” comes with the following special features:

SEASON 1:

DISC 1:

• Audio Commentary for “Hot Tub” - Audio Commentary by Matt Silverstein, Dave Jeser, Cree Summer (voice of Foxxy Love), Tara Strong (who plays Toot), Jess Sarnell (who plays Captain Hero).
• Audio Commentary for “Clara’s Dirty Secret” - Audio Commentary by Matt Silverstein, Dave Jeser, Abbey McBride (voice of Ling-Ling), Jack Plotnick (voice of Xandir) and director Dwayne Carey-Hill.
• Audio Commentary for “The Other Cousin” – Audio Commentary by Cree Summer (voice of Foxxy Love), Jess Sarnell (who plays Captain Hero) and director Pete Avanzino.
• Drawn Together: The Board Game – Let’s Watch!
• Truth or Dare – “Gay Bash”
• Get the DT’s Drinking Game – “Requiem for a Reality Show” – A drinking game featuring two modes – Trainable Version and Expert Version
  

DISC 2:

• Audio commentary for “The One Wherein There is a Big Twist, Pt. 1″ – Featuring commentary by writer Bill Freiberger, Supervising Producer Jordan Young, a stranger named Carlos that they found at Home Depot and Abbey McBride (voice of Ling-Ling).  A very interesting commentary as the guys find a stranger to watch the show and give commentary.
• Audio commentary for “Super Nanny” – Featuring commentary by series creator Matt Silverstein, Abby McBride (voice of Ling-Ling), Jess Harnell (voice of Captain Hero) and director Peter Avenzeno and creator Dave Jeser.
• Deleted Scenes – (5:11) Featuring deleted scenes from the series which feature scenes that are a bit raunchy.
  
• Censored/Uncensored Game – A “Drawn Together” trivia game
  
• Four Never-Before-Seen “Last Week on Drawn Together” Segments – (1:19) Four never-before-seen “Last Week on Drawn Together” (note: These have nothing to do with previous episode’s but nevertheless are quite hilarious/insensitive and more than likely controversial – example: The housemates go to Toot while she’s sleeping and beat her with socks filled with soap).
  
• Karaoke Sing-Along – Featuring karaoke sing-along-mode for “Black Chick’s Tongue”, “Ling-Ling Lament”, “Ling-Ling Battle Song” and “La La Labia”.

SEASON 2:

DISC 1:

• Audio Commentary for “Clum Babies” - Audio Commentary by series creator Matt Silverstein, Abbey McBride (voice of Ling-Ling), writer Elijah Aron, Kurt Vanzo (sound editor)
• Karaoke Sing-Along – Featuring karaoke sing-along-mode for “Shit Sandwich”, “Sunshine”, “School House Rock”, “God is Watching” and “Crashy Smashy”.
• Get the DT’s Drinking Game – “Clum Babies” – A drinking game featuring two modes – Trainable Version and Expert Version
• Behind-the-Scene Interviews: Featuring four interviews which include:
  

- Creator’s Confessional – (4:53) Featuring “Drawn Together” creators Dave Jeser and Matt Silverstein.

- Captain Hero – (2:37) Featuring voice actor Jess Harnell.

- Foxxy Love – (3:17) Featuring voice actress Cree Summer.

- Ling-Ling – (3:36) Featuring voice actress Abey McBride.

DISC 2:

• Audio Commentary for “Terms of Endearment” - Audio Commentary by series executive producer Matt Silverstein, Tara Strong (voice actress of Toot and Clara), executive producer Bill Freiberger, producer Mike Mendel, executive producer Dave Jeser  and Jess Harnell (voice actor for Captain Hero).
• Potential Annoying Commentary for the audio commentary for “Terms of Endearment” - Audio Commentary by series executive producer Matt Silverstein, Jordan Young (Supervising Producer), Ian (Writing Assistant), Abbey McBride (voice of Ling-Ling), Dave Jeser (executive producer)
• Audio Commentary for “A Very Special Drawn Together Afterschool Special” - Audio Commentary by series creator Matt Silverstein, Abbey McBride (voice of Ling-Ling), writer Elijah Aron, Kurt Vanzo (sound editor)
• Behind-the-Scene Interviews: Featuring four interviews which include:
  

- Princess Clara – (3:19) Featuring voice actress Tara Strong.

- Toot Braunstein – (3:45) Featuring voice actress Tara Strong who also does the voice of Toot.

- Wooldor Sockbat – (4:22) Featuring voice actor James Arnold Taylor.

- Xandir P. Wifflebottom – (4:22) Featuring voice actor Jack Plotnick.

SEASON 3:

DISC 1:

• Audio Commentary for “Greeks and Freaks” - Audio Commentary by series creators Dave Jeser and Matt Silverstein, composer Eban Schletter, writer Jordan Young, writer Elijah Aron and writer Reed Agnew.
• Audio Commentary for “Lost in Parking Space, Part I” - Audio Commentary by David Jeser and wife Lisa Jeser, writer Jordan Young and producer Mike Mendel.
• The DT Movie: Red Band Trailer – A red band (mature) trailer for the “Drawn Together” film coming out in April 2010.
• Karaoke Sing-Along – Featuring karaoke sing-along-mode for “Pledging Days”, “No Easy Way Out”, “Scumma Bumma”, “Drawn Together Babies”, “Face the Balls” and “Fire the Load”.
• Get the DT’s Drinking Game – “Wooldoor Sockbat’s Giggle-Wiggle Funny Tickle Non-Traditional Progressive Multicultural Roundtable” – A drinking game featuring two modes – Trainable Version and Expert Version

DISC 2:

• Audio Commentary for “Drawn Together Babies” - Audio Commentary by series creators Dave Jeser and Matt Silverstein, James Arnold Taylor (voice of Wooldor), Peter Avanzino  (supervising director) and Director Frank Marino.
• Audio Commentary for “Breakfast Food Killer” - Audio Commentary by series creators David Jeser and Matt Silverstein, James Arnold Taylor (voice of Wooldor), Abbey McBride (voice of Ling-Ling), Peter Avanzino (supervising director).
• Promos – “Drawn Together” promos for season one through three.
• Comedy Central Quickies – Shorts for South Park’s “Leprechaun” and The Sarah Silverman Program’s “Date With God”.

When it comes to “shocking” films or television, I’m pretty much open to watching most things and willing to give it a try.  Especially moreso if it revolves around comedy.   I watched the season premiere of “Drawn Together” and personally I was shocked to see how crazy and so not-politically correct this series was.  But you know, despite the controversial topics from incest, rape, masturbation, sex, homosexuality, obesity, suicide, racism and just so many other things happening on this series, it’s easy for one to say that this is just one “f’d up” animated series.

It’s one thing for “South Park” to be so controversial back in the 90′s but creators Dave Jeser and Matthew Silverstein pulled no punches with “Drawn Together” but it’s because they handle topics that people are sensitive too but twist it with humor with these animated characters and quite literally take it to an unprecedented level for a television show is what I find quite intriguing.  When I caught the first episode of “Drawn Together”, I was hooked because it was so out of left field, you never know where the creators are going with the series.

For example, with Clara and Foxxy.  I figured, OK…they will be focusing on race relations between a white woman and an African-American.  But sure enough, things went even farther when the two started making out.  Even going further when we see Clara and her father smooching together.  Because of that inbred family, she has a cousin that is mentally retarded and sure enough, we see Captain Hero attracted to her sexually.   Those who see this and take it so seriously, will just say…”This is wrong!”.  We know it’s wrong, everything about the show can be seen as “wrong”. But with Comedy Central and many comedians, they take what’s wrong in their society, some comedians take things from their own ethnicity and try to make it humorous.  “Drawn Together” takes a lot of things in reality that are not funny but use these odd animated characters to make it funny.

But the show is not meant for children, it’s meant for adults and it all comes down to the viewer…is this animated series for you?   Because if you are easily offended, “Drawn Together” is not for you.  But if you are wanting a series that is so different, so wrong but yet is so hilarious, then “Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box” is definitely for you.

The series is packed with audio commentary, games, karaoke and more!  I thought that it was so hilarious to see the creator’s try something different with their audio commentary such as finding a guy named Carlos from Home Depot and made him take part in a commentary of a series he has never seen before.  Never expected that to happen.  And the humor within the creators and the cast, you can tell “Drawn Together”, despite the controversy, it was a series that they were passionate about.

I personally enjoyed this series when it aired on Comedy Central and now watching this set, I can easily say that fans will enjoy “Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box” because outside of the 36 episodes, the amount of special features and the kind of special features included is totally insane.  Seriously, the commentary and special features included is absolutely wild and crazy.  Also, the board game included is pretty well-thought out and also a drinking game and truth or dare game is also included.

Overall, “Drawn Together: The Complete Series – Party In Your Box” is definitely a fun and highly recommended set for fans of the series.

Dane Cook – ISolated INcident (a J!-ENT DVD Review)

Dane Cook returns with his latest comedy DVD “ISolated INcident”.  Ranchy, raw, blunt, hilarious and real!  If you are a fan and want to see a side of Dane Cook that you never saw before, “ISolated INcident” is definitely a comedy DVD worth checking out.

Image courtesy of © 2009 Superfinger Entertainment Galaxy, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

TITLE: Dane Cook – ISolated INcident

DURATION: 55 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: Dolby Digital

COMPANY: Comedy Central/Paramount

RATED: NOT RATED (Contains Coarse Language, Not Recommended for Children)

RELEASED: November 17, 2009

Starring

Dane Cook

After his last two highly rated specials and multi-platinum selling albums, Dane reinvented his act and took it to the stage in front of 400 people at the Laugh Factory in Hollywood. This intimate show was performed in a nightclub atmosphere where Dane shared the audience’s energy in a real-time performance, without a safety net. Here, he showcases a darker and more personal set with cutting edge material that pushes the envelope.

Dane Cook has been one of the most visible comedians that have emerged from Comedy Central’s “Premium Blend” and “Comedy Central Presents”.

Cook has had tremendous success with his comedy album and DVD releases, has hosted “Saturday Night Live” and appeared on films such as “Good Luck Chuck”, “Dan in Real Life”, “Employee of the Month” and “My Best Friend’s Girl” include roles where he played the lead character.

Known for his “observational humor” style of comedy, Dane Cook returns with “ISolated INcident” featuring a performance at The Laugh Factory in Hollywood. The routine is more intimate with a club-like setting and Cook wanted the special to be natural and reel, so if he messes up…then he messes up.  From the moment he walks into the venue and the moment he walks out, he keeps it live and real. Even the comedian himself says that he felt good about his performance that he doesn’t even need to watch the special.

Dane Cook’s comedy routine for “ISolated INcident” features a first half that showcases his observational humor but also a personal-style in which Cook talks about President Obama and him being social media savvy, his parents (who both passed away) and his haters but the second half then gets extremely raunchy as Cook talks about having sex, revealing his fetishes and more.

For the most part, if you are familiar with Cook’s comedy, he has a casual but blunt style of delivery.   His routine discusses of although supporting African-Americans, Caucasians having that little racism in them to asking the female audience about their version of “cock blockers” and giving them the name “twat swatters”, to a more personal but comedy take on having to take care of his father who is dying and seeing his deceased mother’s cell phone # and wanting to give her a call but afraid that she may pick up.  And of course, wanting to adopt a Black child.  You have the more observational humor style of his comedy through the first half of his routine and then it changes to become a more raunchier act about him having sex with women and learning about the kinkier side of the comedian.

What is most impressive of this DVD are the special features because you get to see footage of Dane Cook during 30 live performances via “30 Premeditated Acts” which shows the comedian at his best and his absolutely worst (the worst features him in a negative moment not even doing a routine but making fun of the audience and definitely seems like he’s in an uber-cranky mood) which the director calls it a “cringe moment”.  According to Cook,  he says that he does in order to release his negative energy before a major performance a few times a year.  Yikes!

Also, included is “Isolated Interview” in which you learn how on the making of “ISolated INcident”, days before recording for the DVD, everything that can go wrong…went wrong.    And for the most part, viewers of this DVD watching both bonus features will be surprised about what took place behind-the-scenes (in one case, a group of a talkative female group that was a bit unnerving to Cook definitely caught the attention of a person not in the mood for their banter and the lady according to Cook, was punched).

Needless to say, “ISolated INcident” is an interesting comedy DVD as Cook is performing in a more intimate club setting but special features that really give the viewer a chance to see how he really is as a person and what goes on his mind during those good and bad days as a comedian.

The track listing for “ISolated INcident” are as follows:

1. Intro
2. Obama
3. Self Assassination
4. Vernacular
5. Pissed Off
6. Twat Swatters
7. Banter #1
8. Mom and Pops
9. Haters
10. Adoption
11. Syncing Feeling
12. W.W.Y.D.I.??
13. Interracial Tail
14. Remote Location
15. Push and Pray
16. Big Shot
17. Rigmarole
18. Role Play
19. Hidden Gems
20. Peanut Butter Smack

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Dane Cook – ISolated INcident” is featured in widescreen and is shot at The Laugh Factory in Hollywood.  Dane Cook wanted a club-setting and thus, instead of a large and wide theater, you get a more personal performance as we see Dane performing in front of 400 people.  Light is well done but the stage is quite small with the audience very close to him during the performance.  We see mostly full body shot and closeup of Dane Cook and a direct light shining on him.  When Cook is talking to the audience, we see a picture-in-picture like display on the front of the audience, so it was interesting to see that perspective for a comedy DVD.

Unlike the typical comedy DVD’s with constant editing for various angles, there is a single camera right on Dane Cook since there are not many cameras in the tight space around the club.  But for the most part, the single camera shot for this venue works perfectly.

Audio is featured in Dolby Digital.  Audience can be heard laughing quite well but most of all, Dane Cook’s dialogue and delivery is clear and front channel driven.  I preferred to set my receiver with stereo on all channels for a more immersive soundtrack.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Dane Cook – ISolated INcident” comes with the following special features:

• 30 Premeditated Acts: (58:43) Definitely the most interesting special feature I have seen in a Comedy Central release (especially the longest).  In this feature, Dane Cook talks to people who filmed his special and they discuss the various 30 acts shot on film and the filmmaker showing Dane Cook the various jokes.  You get to see how Dane Cook has his different days depending on his mood and the positive and negative side to the comedian.  You also get to see the good and the bad of his audience interaction during his routine and even interviews with the audience.   You usually don’t see these type of special features on Comedy Central DVD’s, so this was pretty awesome to see.
  
• Isolated Interview: Never-Before-Seen Interview with Dane: (27:21) An interview with Dane Cook as he talks about the filming of “ISolated INcident” but also learning about the problems that happened behind-the-scenes and the worst things that could happened…happened.  Very interesting and surprising details of what happened during the filming of this special.
  

Dane Cook is definitely one of the more popular and well-know comedians to emerge from Comedy Central’s specials.  Not many are able to release a DVD and then get featured on major films as a lead, so it goes to show how far he has come since his appearing on the network back in 1998 for Comedy Central’s “Premium Blend”.

With that being said, Dane Cook is definitely one of those comedian’s that you either love the guy’s comedy or you hate it.  Needless to say, he has his share of haters and in fact, for “ISolated INcident”, the comedian goes into that in his comedy routine and even goes into the one hater who wrote him and told him that his parents died to get away from him (obviously, something he uses for his jokes but what a messed up thing to say), granted karma came back when Cook reiterates a similar joke when the hater apologizes and writes about his father dying.  Which Dane says that it’s good to go down the low road once in awhile.

From him reading the negative comments or websites made about him and how it screws his mind up at times to also discussing the loss of his mother and father.  And once you feel bad for him, he manages to know how to push you away and literally make a joke out of it.  It’s what Dane Cook does well.  His observational and casual style of comedy is blunt and at times, it can be in-your-face.  Although the more darker side of Dane Cook can be seen in his “30 Premeditated Acts” special feature, you do get to see that hilarious and fun side to his routine as he gets the audience involved in his special.  Where it seems his conversational comedy with the audience members can lead to problematic situations, Dane Cook manages to make it all work out for the best in his special (it’s not always like that, again referring to what you will see in the special feature “30 Premeditated Acts”).

His comedy routine is a mix bag of sorts especially if you heard his comedy albums or his specials before.   I’ve found myself laughing to a lot of jokes and just saying “man, that is so wrong!” but its his style that has made him popular with a lot of his fans.

For “ISolated INcident”, audience reaction for the most part was good but it depends how one reacts to comedy that centers around racism, rape, sex and the death of his parents.   There are subjects that may seem a bit taboo for some but it works for Dane Cook and that’s why you have audiences and even comedians who split down the middle of those who support his comedy and those who trash it.  So, for those who are familiar with his comedy will definitely enjoy this release while those not too familiar with it, I recommend checking out YouTube and other video sites to see if his comedy suits your taste.

But what I found quite interesting and also pretty cool were the two special features included on the “ISolated INcident” DVD.  Both features are something that you will never see on a comedy DVD from Comedy Central.  Most comedians have deleted scenes from a special performance to highlights from other acts but in this case, “30 Premeditated Acts” is watching Dane Cook for 30 performances…the good and the bad.  When he’s good, he feels great but when he’s feeling bad, if you’re in the audience, good chance that he will pick you out in the audience and have fun with you.  Sometimes it’s hilarious but sometimes that negative energy which he said he is trying to “purge” can be a bit callous and rude. But that was the intention of showing how various acts differ and how things change with his comedy routine.

For “Isolated Interview”, it was good to hear from Dane Cook talking about the positives and the negatives of shooting “ISolated INcident”.  It appears there was quite a bit of mishaps that happened during the filming of the special and things went wrong.  But how he was able to turn a negative experience and just turn out a positive performance was pretty awesome.

Dane Cook’s “ISolated INcident” is a fun and hilarious comedy DVD.  A DVD featuring newer comedy material that will definitely surprise you but depending on your taste in comedy, it’s either going to make you laugh or make you think “man, that is so messed up!”.  As mentioned, the two special features are something you just don’t see on Comedy Central-related DVD’s, so for the most part, it was a good glimpse to see all the challenges that took place during each filming of his act and how different they truly were and how different he was on those days.

Overall, If you are a fan of Dane Cook, “ISolated INcident” is a solid DVD worth checking out!

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