Home Video Exclusives

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Nuclear Apocalypse '80s Style Part I


This is one of the more different entries. I'm going to be showcasing a title and it's upgrade. Did not expect this to turn into a two parter. Surprise!

I'm going to be talking about the not sci-fi drama, "The Day After".



The ABC TV movie aired November 20th, 1983. It was a mega hit when it aired - well over a hundred million people were watching; this equaled 62% as in sixty-two percent of the entire nation was viewing it that night. It was a three hour presentation with limited commercial breaks (once the attack happens, no further commercials). Yeah.

The movie is decent enough, so what was the drawl?

Timing is everything. Let me give you some perspective...

This aired as the Cold War was ratcheting; America and the Soviet were talking about expanding nuclear capabilities. The U.S. was working on their space based missile shield system, "Star Wars". Which was pure BS, we didn't have the tech at the time to make it work - but the Russians didn't know. And spent billions upon billions trying to create their own competing system, it never worked. It couldn't work, not enough power could be generated for the orbital platform.

It was a laser system to shoot down missiles before they could do serious damage to America, multiple satellites to cover the nation, like under a dome. But those satellites could only shoot one or twice before the system got drained. Too much power for those long distance lasers. The technology wasn't up to the task. It was a ruse to get the Soviets to drain their resources. It worked.

Anyhow.

This movie came out when there were genuine fears that each day could very well be our last. At any time, we could be attacked and it's a war with no real winners. Death from the detonation. Lingering, suffering death from the radioactive fallout. The people who would be dying wished they were already dead. Seriously bad stuff, physical disintegration; hair and teeth falling out, unable to digest food, loosing muscle mass and so much worse.



That week's TV Guide issue.

I was in junior high when this aired. The movie was something that school staff felt needed to be shared. I didn't see it when it was broadcast. I saw it in school. Shown in our social studies class (on VHS, recorded on someone's VCR). They took it quite serious. Which is dark as hell, showing little kids mass devastation and deaths.

The movie was made to be as scientific accurate as possible. The director had a tough time with the network since he wanted to get more graphic; radiation sickness, but was told to pull it back. When it aired there was a warning, this program has disturbing scenes. And suggested that families watch it together to have a discussion about what to do should it happen.

No sh!t, this was something that frightened a lot of people. When it aired there were 1-800 numbers for hotlines to talk to a counselor about what was being shown.

It aired on a Sunday night. The following evening, "Nightline" had a lengthy discussion about the movie and what could happen. Host Ted Kopple had NASA scientist Carl Sagan, General Brent Scowcroft, ex-Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, ex-Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, professor of humanities Elie Wiesel and social commentator William F. Buckley Jr. to talk about the subject. This is something I would like to see today. I'm not a little kid and can now appreciate the discussion.

Imagine a room awash in gasoline and there are two implacable enemies in the room. One of them has nine thousand matches. The other has seven thousand matches. Each of them is concerned about who's ahead who's stronger.

- Sagan

The movie was the topic of in-depth discussions from Time and Newsweek magazines to TV Guide. The filmmakers touched a taunt nerve. Can't please everybody; critics at the time fell into two camps, mostly. One - this is nothing more than sensationalism. Two - this was too real; as in based on real possible events, but was way too graphic. The other subset of that, not graphic enough - hoping the movie could be used as a legit deterrent against nuclear war.

You could very well say that "The Day After" was one of the iconic films of the 1980s. It did so well, that PSO, Producers Sale Organization released the movie in Europe, theatrically - with six more minutes of footage. These were edits from deleted moments, not more graphic scenes. The film was screened for President Ronald Reagan on October 10th, '83. In his memoirs, he said the film left him greatly depressed.

I'm really touching the surface here - the impact this TV movie had on the media and people in power. It changed minds.

Okay. The details.



The film first came out on DVD on May 18th, 2004 from MGM Home Entertainment for $27.98.

This is the TV broadcast. Presented in full screen and had zero bonus features.

Man, MGM dropped the ball here. They could've at least included that "Nightline" episode as an extra. It would've been memorable. Nope. There's more, but I'll get into that in a few.

I will say that cover was excellent; certainly gets the point across and has rich colors.



Horrible cover here. Where's the umph? The TV movie was re-released on disc on August 8th, 2018 from Kino Lorber Inc. for $19.95 on DVD and $29.95 for Blu-Ray. This was a two disc special edition. It has both the TV broadcast (full screen) and theatrical (anamorphic widescreen) versions, both remastered.

Extras included commentary by film historian Lee Gambin and comic artist/writer Tristan Jones. And interviews with actress JoBeth Williams and director Nicholas Meyer on the making.

Both the DVD and BD have the same extras.

The Kino release is a genuine upgrade. I'm only going to show you a single example, but this encapsulates all that's wrong with the MGM release. Sure at the time, it was the only way to own it on disc. It looks like they were just going through the motions rather than making it a solid DVD.

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Counting Your Money, After The Is Done Part I


This time out we get to know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em; another brand new entry! We go back to the 1800s with "The Gambler".

"The Gambler: The Complete 6 - Film Collection" was released on home video on October 6th, 2020.



It streeted against "Valley Girl" (2020 remake), "The Secret Garden" and "Save Yourselves!".

This came in a transparent case with the wraparound printed on both sides. The inner has a Brady Hawks still (star Kenny Rogers) with zero data; no air dates nor synopsises. *shakes fist* What the hell?

There was no insert or slipcover issued. I ended up including an index card with all the air dates and networks.

- - -

Not an easy task - nope. But I did find it.

"The Gambler" continues to be a Wal-Mart unadvertised exclusive (no sticker on it indicating what it is); only when you look at their website do you get the information. Why? I don't know. Seems so counterproductive, wouldn't you want people - customers to know?

As I write this - there is no national release date announced.

The five DVD set streeted at the store on October 6th, 2020 and had a retail price of $19.99. It has since changed. There is no extras present... unless you count that other movie. I'll cover that in a few.

There's a story to be told I'll do that first.

- - - - - - - - - -

Rant.



I've been trying to buy this collection - in a different form for years. TimeLife had a box set with the first three releases in the franchise. It came with a bonus deck of cards. This was what I wanted and to buy the last two mini-series separately. I made so many attempts and they pretty much all failed - eBay. Two tries happen in earlier 2021.

Folks who have 'make an offer' listing, but don't want offers, why have it if you won't allow it? So this was a 'no go' for me. Now I'm glad it didn't happen. I wouldn't spent so much money collecting and later kicking myself for buying them all.

I did not know about this collection until September 3rd, 2021 - I was out of time at one of the stores when I saw it. Yeah, my jaw dropped. Bought my copy for $14.99; looking at the tag, the price was reduced in June of '21.

These TV movies and mini-series has been released, re-released and re-re-released over the years from TimeLife, Timeless Media Group, Echo Bridge Entertainment and now by Shout! Factory which by the way had bought TMG a few years back (but has yet to re-release their complete series sets).

So many different DVD releases these 2000s.



My plan was originally to get that TimeLife box and the last two mini-series from Timeless Media Group since EBE is well known for dropping bit rates to cram as much as possible on their discs. *nods*

As I wrote earlier, I'm so glad my previous efforts failed. This set is so convenient and value priced. Sway. The stupid thing, recently I was at my local Wal-Mart and saw it for sale. NOW! All these past months, nearly a year after the fact, it's now at my store.

Something that must be understood. Came to learn this over the years. When the store has an exclusive release - for some bizarre reason it won't be carried at all their stores. I'm under the impression these things are regional as it were then become wider available. Again, I have no answer why.

- - -



I should, this is a generational thing. I'll start with some history. Okay - yeah. That second pix, going left to right. I'm pretty sure that's a terrible way to hold a rifle. One mistake, boom! You lost your noggin'.

This was a series of TV movies and later mini-series from CBS and NBC based around a popular song (written by Don Schlitz for/about his late father) by Kenny Rogers, "The Gambler" 1978. The song was a massive hit back in the day, crossing over from country music into pop on Billboard.

CBS needed filler content for the movie of the week and looked at the song as a potential project. I can image the talk about having Rogers in the lead. 'Man is not an actor, can he act? Oh screw it, people will tune in just to see how much of a train wreck this will be. Either way we make money on ratings.'

The stand alone TV movie aired on April 8th, 1980... and was a hit too. Which I can guess damn surprised network executives. Was this a one time deal? Curious they set into motion a sequel, but that didn't happen until 1983. Why the delay? Rogers had a singing gig; recording songs, going on concerts and producing his brand. He didn't have the free time to do another movie.

But the stars alined and "The Adventures Continues" was made; aired November 28th of '83. Once again This was a hit for the network. Proving this wasn't a one hit wonder. They wanted a third entry, but were met once again with the same, old problem - his schedule, but now with a new twist. This was becoming a thing for Rogers, so he wanted to make sure the next installment had an excellent script which got expanded and expanded - becoming a two part mini-series.

"The Legend Continues" was promoted by CBS in 1987 like it was nobody's business, partnered with McDonalds and Mercury (automotive). It had a larger cast with famous actors in various roles. A bigger hit than the last one. It aired in two parts on November 22nd and 23rd of '87.

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - September 21st, 2021


F9: The Fast Saga
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $34.99

Cruella
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $34.99

Unbreakable (2000)
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $28.99

A Clockwork Orange
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $33.99

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - September 28th, 2021


3 From Hell
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $19.99

Darling In The Franxx: Season 1
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DC combo $38.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Hope At Times Is About Surrendering And Moving Forward, Here Or Far From Home Part II


Sam Parkhill (Darren McGavin) used his notoriety as one of the surviving Zeus III crew members, like car salesman, Cal Worthington. An Amerian cowboy who help stop a murderer.

Man, you can barely make out the restaurant sign, Sam riding a rocket.

- - -



Before I forget to include. This is the original hardcover novel (first pressing) by Bradbury; published by Doubleday on May 4th, 1950, two hundred and twenty-two pages.

The book source that stirred so many imaginations.

- - -

Back on topic.



Near the very end of Part III; the Wilder family making new roots away from the world they once knew.

You can see what I mean about the image quality. The MGM DVD has an interlace problem. It can and does look pixelated at times, especially when you pause the image.

This is completely absent on the ]Kino release - as it should be. But now as said, too dark and in a shade of blue.

- - -



From Part III once more. Here is John's encounter with a Martian (Terence Longdon).

This is another example of how extreme ]Kino made their image. This was the last straw for me.

I decided not to get rid of that '04 DVD, it had image issues, but it had the better colors and you could make out what was going on.

And yeah, their eyes glow red. They really dropped the ball on this transfer. Isn't the point to be able to see what's going on? I don't understand why they thought that was good idea.

- - -



I have the CD soundtrack too. This came out in 2002 as a limited edition; only 3,000 copies made from Airstrip One Company. This has the score by Stanley Myers, but is not complete.

Additional music was done by Richard Harvey - due to rights (like Mars), those cues were not included. All and all it has thirty-six tracks. The main theme still saddens me.

All these years, decades - I still want it. The mini-series presented a future van. Add to the pile of weird choices - the sound effect for the vehicle was a jet engine. Why?



This would be so sway in Lego. Have a minifigs of Wilder and Spender in the front seats.

Can see this on my desk. I would buy it.

- - -



There is an oddity that isn't part of the Kino release; probably lost to time. In 1979, before the mini-series aired. The lengthy program was whittled down into a ninety minute feature.

It had a very limited theatrical release in France. What stories were omitted? We may never know now. Above is another promo image; not the French poster.

Had an extra image, decided to stick it here.



Yup. That's a ten year old; pre-famous Laurie Holden as Marie Wilder with her on screen mom, Ruth (Gayle Hunnicutt). Long before she gain fame as Andrea on "The Walking Dead".

There you go. Nothing too complicated and easy to complete.

Come back here on October 7th for the 7th Annual Limited Edition Horror! Spooky. Like breaking wind, unexpectedly...in crowed room. Indeed. See you then.

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Hope At Times Is About Surrendering And Moving Forward, Here Or Far From Home Part I


Since far too much work is yet unmade for next month's extravaganza - we have a simple, meat and potatoes showcase - another comparison. An upgrade? The mini-series adaptation of Ray Bradbury's classic - "The Martian Chronicles"...



Sorry about the res, this was the best I could find and work with. The other is the TV Guide advertisement.

The NBC TV reworking of the classic 1950 sci-fi novel aired in 1980 and was so-so received by critics and audiences. It was a six hour presentation, shown in three two hour installments; "The Expeditions" (January 27th), "The Settlers" (January 28th) and "The Martians" (January 29th). It was a jointed NBC and BBC production.

Over the decades the program has gain cult status; mix of odd decisions and 1970s kitsch. The mini-series was finished in '79, but didn't air until '80.

Blame Bradbury, he trashed the production during a press conference. The mini-series was scheduled for a September 1979 airing. Pulled.

The thing is - the author worked with screenwriter and fellow author, Richard Matheson on the adaptation. Both of their hands were in the teleplays. If he was unhappy - why didn't he do more to fix his woes? One of life questions that will go unanswered. Ray Bradbury died on June 5, 2012 in Los Angeles.

Because of him the network tried to minimize the damage and aired the mini-series months later.

The core - everything turning to crap. Earth nuked itself, WWIII. What remains of humanity finds a new home on the red planet, but it too is dying - there is no unity. We are becoming extinct, like the last inhabitants.

I saw this when it first aired. And became depressed by the conclusion. This will be such an uphill battle to save ourselves. If at all.

Part I takes place in January of 1999; the first manned mission to Mars - "Zeus"; a two man crew. Col. John Wilder (Rock Hudson) is the NASA project's director; depressed that he won't be going on that historic exploration. A project he's worked on for over ten years. The large rocket is launched, things are in motion. The shuttle craft detaches from the main craft and lands on the surface. A few minutes later, communication is lost. Unsure that happened and if a rescue is needed - a second expedition is set into motion.

"Zeus II" lands on Mars on April 2000. They transmit their success and searches for answers. They come across a massive anomaly. Why is there a 1970s town on the red planet? Just like the last mission, contact is lost; both expeditions were murdered by Martians. The second was far more humane. They don't want us. They don't want to know us.

"Zeus III" lands on Mars June of 2001, the final effort by Earth to venture on Mars. This time lead by Wilder. They find the remnants of the pervious attempts and have one of their own going rogue. It ends with John having to kill one of his oldest friends, Jeff Spender (Bernie Casey) from assassinating the rest of the crew. Spender's reason is both profane and mysterious - what did he finds out there while seeking, alone? What made him go homicidal?

Part II takes place in February 2004. "Zeus III" returns to Earth; Mars becomes the next boom. A feet of ships arrive to Mars to colonize. Rich and poor seeking to make their futures on the red planet. The settlements is headed by Wilder who is doing his best to keep a balance. An effort that echoes Spender's final words. The ships were designed to be stripped and repurposed. This creates a city that grows and grows with each new dispatch.

Two years later, things start to go wrong. Nations have laid claim to areas, extensions of those countries. Those spots become disputed. It become heated. Folks know war is coming. And many, most - return to Earth to be with their families and to return to get their loved ones OFF the planet, return to Mars. The efforts of so many were in vain, the nations of Earth nuked themselves over Martian property rights.

Part III takes place in November 2006. Hoping that something or some people could be saved (his younger brother and his family); Col. Wilder returns to Earth - finds only devastation, no survivors. He returns to Mars to be with his family who didn't evacuate. What follows is various survivors, existing separately; some are seeking others. And others who are content to fade away.

What John wanted so badly, only hinted by Jeff was seeing a Martian. He does. But it's one dead person talking to another.

What happened? Martians were nearly all killed off from chicken pox brought by one of the Zeus missions. It ends with John destroying what remains of the working space crafts and heads out with his family to rebuild (if possible) and consolidate the new 'Martians'. There was some hope, but what was presented was bleak. I'm giving you the basics, so much more happens.

At times the production (sets and costumes) appears to be campy and so 1970s disco culture. It's a pocket of that time and quite bizarre. The future has so many leisure suits. I liked it; counting - I have bought this three times over.

- - -



The first was the 1989 laser disc box set from Image Entertainment. Three double sided discs presented in CLV. Sure, UPC# 014381637069. This was a pricey thing, a $99.95 price tag. Can't recall how much I paid. But I knew places which had discounts. So it was something less. I bought it new, not used.

There is something here I will address, but that will be in a few - picture issue.

Curious, I looked about; turns out some are asking for $29.98 for this LD set.

- - -



This came to DVD on September 7th, 2004 from MGM Home Entertainment for $19.98.

There were no extras and like with the LD this is presented in full screen. This was a two disc set.

I bought my copy in October of 2007; yes, I'm that anal. The copy wasn't great (picture wise), but this was the last home video release that wasn't on VHS.

- - -



It would take fourteen year until the next re-release. This was remastered with a lite extra (an interview with actor James Faulkner who played a Martian in Part I).

Kino Lorber Inc. on June 26th, 2018 put out the mini-series on DVD ($24.95) and Blu-Ray ($34.95), both as two disc sets.

For unknown reasons, this remastering, the image is both darker and hued in blue. That laser disc also had the mini-series presented in a shade of blue, but not that dark. The '04 DVD showed the program with a red tint on Mars and was brighter. I much prefer this imagery, easy to see what's going on and colors too.

The Kino release has a double sided wraparound; you could pick which cover art you wanted to display as seen above. That's nice, few titles give that kind of option. Good for them.

That's the stats. Now the meat of this post...

- - - - - - - - - -

From left to right is the MGM and ]Kino DVDs.



Col. John Wilder confronting Zeus III's archaeologist, Jeff about what he did and what is yet to come.

As you can see the differences. Colors is muted in the '18 release and is presented darker. But the resolution is much clearer.

What happened? The U.S. flag on Wilder's coat (and other crewmen) have forty-eight stars. What happened to those two missing states and which were they? *nods*

- - -



Another example of how dark they made the image.

John visits one of his friends after Earth nukes itself. One of his former crew who had spent his savings to open a burger joint on a high traffic road for miners and colonists. Would've been a huge success - if the apocalypse hadn't hit.

[JohnIan101]

Target - October 5th, 2021


Space Jam: A New Legacy
Exclusive packaging and character cards; BD/DVD/DC combo $26.99

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - October 5th, 2021


American Psycho
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $19.99

Space Jam: A New Legacy
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $34.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Hope Is All But Forlorn Once You Mess With The Reaper Part II


Those numbers do not include worldwide tallies and home video receipts. It is a strong franchise. I'm surprised this hasn't happened yet. This is one of those things that should be annual, every Halloween.

Granted number five didn't do so well, but I blame four - it was so far from canon that fans were ticked off. It was like the filmmakers decided to make a movie without seeing the other features first. Seriously WTF?



Not gonna go into the story; most people have seen the first movie, repeatedly. No joking - it has become a modern classic. Events shown made audiences ponder what they would do in that situation; fight or surrender?

Indeed.

By the way, I still stand by my idea made years ago from "Final Destination 2". William Bludworth (Tony Todd) told Kimberly (A.J. Cook) the truth: only a new life can break the chain. A new life, that was never meant to exist. A new life, CREATED by two people who should already be dead.

This new life is not on Death's List, an anomaly. The solution; reboot the program (as it were) to accommodate the new entry - chain broken. Fate becomes unknown to the survivors once again, their lives returned. Something I had forgotten or perhaps it just lingered in my subconscious. It DID happen!

There was a setup in the first film that was axed. In one of the deleted scenes; Clear took a pregnancy test and found out she was pregnant with Alex's child. Had the two survived the birth of their child, reboot. Yeah, that's a spoiler.

It was on the table, but dropped.

Anyhow, my ranking best to worst...

"Final Destination 2"
"Final Destination"
"Final Destination 3"
"Final Destination 5"
"The Final Destination"

YES, I feel the second film is superior to the first. It explored the mythology and had strong characters that we were quite sympathetic. Plus it followed the events from the last film to a logical conclusion. It made sense and wasn't disrespectful to fans.

Plus the disaster was quite reality based. I've seen that on the road, a big rig hauling logs. Didn't think too much about it then, now I'm very conscience of what might happen.... the traffic disaster.

*snap*

- - - - - - - - - -

Tangent.

Too sexy!!! The next wave of attention getting Halloween costumes for your inspiration.



These two are both creative and accent femininity without being too slutty... well just the right participation.

For your delight - "Sexy Peanut". Heels and cane not included. Simple and yet quite iconic in easy recognition. Though she is missing one piece - a monocle. Would be cool if there was purse that looked like a jar of peanut butter, that would complete the costume.

Next is "Cruella Intentions". Oh yes, it's sexy "Cruella De Vil" - taking a page from the "Batman" legacy, Two-Face. You get everything here minus the wig, boots and stockings. This 'puppy' is nearly a hundred dollars. Like with the other, it's missing a handbag; need a plush dalmatian... gutted into a purse. How cruel. And yes, those fishnet stockings and wig are a must.

- - - - - - - - - -

Recommendations.

History repeats, but with a twist. This time out I'm only showcasing four Halloween suggestions for three weeks. I may give two for week four since it hits four days before Halloween. You should already know what to watch.

As expected most can be found in your local video rental shops (if they still exist, my store closed this year due to the...). Few can be found in stores. The best bet is to find them online, cheaply, through Ebay or Amazon's resellers marketplace, purchase used/new DVDs or BDs. Or pawn shops or even second hand stores - good hunting.

Some are on Netflix and such streaming services. And YouTube too. *wink*

"Howl" (2015)
The red eye train from London to Eastborough (England) comes to a halt due to an impact with a deer, leaving the train's fuel line damaged. The conductor leave the engine to assess the damage - he never came back. Joe Griffin wasn't suppose to be onboard the Alpha Trax train; he was forced into a double shift. He and the tea-trolley girl, Ellen are the only company staff left, it was a skeleton crew. What starts off as a light mystery and inconvenience turns into a bloody nightmare. The radio is busted, the antenna torn off - miles away from Eastborough in the rain, isolated in the woods. The passengers and crew are being stalked by werewolves. It's up to their collective resources to last the night if they can stop bickering. To make matters worse, one of the passengers has been bit - and it's a full moon. The film was originally shot in 3D, but the home video release (DVD) is 2D. In a way, it feels like a reimagining of "Night Of The Living Dead" (1968), the good way.
Our Alchemy, LLC - 2016 - NR

"Let's Be Evil" (2016)
Jennifer Ryan is running out of funds to care for her ailing mother. She is pleased to be accepted as a chaperone, a high paid job for "The Prosperity Project". Her task is nothing more than a glorified baby sitter for a group of gifted children for a few weeks. The location to her surprise is far underground, below city hall in Los Angeles. Jennifer finds two more chaperones, Tiggs and Darby. The complex in near pitch black. It is the use of VR goggles that illuminates the surroundings which comes with an A.I. assistant, Ariel. Paranoia slowly grows as Jennifer experiences glitches with her goggles. An increasing number of discontinuities that lead to a violent conclusion, the children have gone rogue - homicidal. She and her friends attempt to leave the bunker. This is available on DVD and BD+DVD combo. Spoiler... since the ending is repeatedly misunderstood. Those glasses illuminate what's there AND (hacked) allow only what is wished to be seen; rendered invisible right in front of you. Understand?
Shout! Factory LLC - 2016 - NR

"The McPherson Tape: UFO Abduction" (1989)
This title was listed in "Limited Edition Horror" 2017 as 'find where you can' - the situation has changed. Now there is a limited edition official DVD. Thought to be lost in a warehouse fire, it has been found and remastered. This is the original found footage alien abduction film - shot on cassette. The Connecticut family here is the Van Heeses, NOT McPherson - that is the name of the family in the 1998 remake; aired on UPN (January 18th, 1998); both produced by Dean Alioto. In short, a family who lives out in the sticks has a 'Fourth Kind' encounter in the worst possible way. No help is coming because of their isolated home. You can cut the dread in this flick. Excellent stuff.
POV Horror - 2019 - NR

"The Shallows" (2016)
One of the few films that can be said in the same breath as "Jaws" (1975). Medical student Nancy Adams has gone to Mexico to surf the beach her mom did when she was pregnant with her. It was an effort to find the elusive location, but she is successful. She went into medicine to help her ailing mother, but lost her to cancer. Surfing this secluded beach is her way to honor her memory. But it becomes the single worst decision in Adams' life. Not long into her activity she is attacked by a great white shark, nearly killing her. She swims onto an exposed rock ledge above the waterline. Her adversary does not give up easy - two hundred yards from salvation, the shore - might as well be two hundred miles. Her sanctuary is vanishing - the tide is rising; soon the shark will be able to gobble her. Injured and losing blood, Nancy attempts to reach a nearby buoy which becomes her last stand against the ferocious beast. It is a tense, determined, one on one drama; human vs. nature.
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment - 2016 - R

- - - - - - - - - -

Just Because.



Many guys (myself included) and some gals were wooed the lovely Ms. Ali Larter. She's what you expect the 'girl next door' to look like - your friend first and something more if mutual. Plus she has this hippy chick vibe going on, a free spirit. You have no idea how much work was done for that image.

The original image had so many 'issues'. Cleaned it up, did restorations and modded the colors and contrast. Still not happy, but it's much better here.

Shaken? No? Well... there more chills coming next week - "Limited Edition Horror" presses on, mowing over - aiming at your direction like a rabid critter with laser focus. It wants to greet you - with distress in a missing limbs kind of way. See you then.

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Hope Is All But Forlorn Once You Mess With The Reaper Part I


[An earlier version of this PT was originally posted on May 21st, 2015 on JoBlo's "DVD, Blu-Ray & Home Theater Discussion" forum.]

It was the perfect camping spot. The area had just enough of a clearing for the truck and RV tow. Daylight was coming to an end for the day. The sky was crimson fading to dusk. You had heard of this place from a friend who didn't venture this far, but was planning to do later - before the snow came. It was a smile that you get to claim camp first.

The truck remained hitched for practical reasons. You had made a slow and precise turn so that when the weekend was over you can drive straight - back to civilization. Once done, you had gotten out and admired the scenery, taking in a great breath. It was inspirational poster worthy. Out of habit you gave the propane tanks a check and climbed in the RV - door closed and locked. Locked just in case you may get an unwanted, criminally minded hiker. Far from civilization, but not that far from misdeeds.

The place was packed with all the stuff to be self-sufficient and comfortable. Water tanks full. Gray and black tanks empty. This was your first RV tow. And this excursion was more than just taking a break, enjoying nature - it would be a test. A test to see if you could make this more than a weekend joy stay. Could this be made into a permanent tiny home; parked in some RV park - even taking out the toilet and modding it with a residential unit. Not that hard to do... just need to be motivated. Is it worth it?

You wanted this to be an evaluation, your thoughts - alone. So Hannah wasn't present. She did want to go. She did want to spend the time, 'roughing it' for a weekend. As much of it as having all the city convenience within feet of each other as roughing it. But a random family issue came up and that was okay. She says, she'll be there, "next time". In way this makes this experience, exclusive - yours alone.

As Friday descended into darkness, you had a hankering for pasta. Most of the proposition was hand made, even modding the canned sauce. And grating a brick of cheddar into a fine shred. Water was boiling, hydrating the pasta. Cooking on the other induction was some sausage for greater flavor.

WHAT?!

For a second you saw something from the uncurtained window. It was an instant. Red. A pair of... reds. You stopped cooking and turned on the outside lights from the wall switch. Nothing. Just trees moving slightly from a breeze. You stood there, eyes seeking movement. Some beats later, turned the lights off to save power. While they are LEDs, they are still floodlights after all. It was the smell that snapped you back. The pasta is ready.

You pull out the drainer and contemplate what... what was imagined; red glowing eyes? The various parts were assembled. A full plate and delicious, Hannah would've loved it. Hell, she does when you cook for her. Nobody is here. Why not? You bellowed a loud burp. It was satisfying. Before another thought could happen - you heard it, unmistakable, a roar. The first thought wasn't about those red eyes, but about a grizzly. Winter hadn't hit yet, would not go into hibernation for a few more weeks.

You hit the outside lights once more - and there it was. A damn brown bear, standing upright as if ready to pounce on the RV. Not expecting such a sight, you jumped back, tripping over onto the floor. A second roar happens, but was cut off in mid-howl, wet almost. You got back up, looking at the window, the beast was still there; part of it at least. You could see because of the temperature change, steam coming off the open carcass.

What did that? Better yet, where is the rest of the bear? The quick instinct is to get the frack out of Dodge. But that means going outside, exposed to... well to - whatever did that - so you could get back in the truck and drive away. Right now, that's not an option. You slowly move to the other side of the tow to see out of that window. There you stood for well over a minute - no movement seen. Then you felt and heard the crash.

Hard to believe we have hit the seven year mark. Welcome the Seventh Annual "Limited Edition Horror" - 2021! Four weeks of horror theme, multi-part Past Tense entries, one each week of October. With a possible bonus entry, if you're 'good'.

'21 kicks off with a modern classic that pits a unwitting seer against Death itself; a race to stay one step ahead of supernatural assassination. No mistake, that is what's happening. The Grim Reaper is setting things into motion to murder those who fail to heed his 'list'.



The motion picture opened on March 17th, 2000. It was made with a budget of $23,000,000 (estimated) and grossed over $53 million during its U.S. theatrical run; counting foreign receipts it made $112,880,294. The film opened number three at the box office, the following week it remained at number three.

The feature opened against "Mission To Mars", "The Ninth Gate" and "American Beauty".

This originally was not issued a slipcover, but came with a foil wraparound. Please note, later pressings replaced it with a regular (matted) wraparound. First pressing also came with a single page insert; chapter listings, the other side mirrored the DVD's cover. Yeah, this came out when discs used to be gold colored, not silver.

This streeted on September 26, 2000 for $24.95.

Just so you know, that poster was released as a lenticular, not too many studios do that. Look at it one way see the cast, shift a bit, and you see them with skulls. I wish I had one.

- - -

I can not pin down the exact date for this exclusive. But I can tell you the month and year.

Wal-Mart offered the sole exclusive, a slipcover - years after the fact, a decade in fact.



This was part of their annual Halloween movie sale. It came out in mid September 2010 for $7.50.

As I've said in these pages; Wal-Mart has a long history of trying to trick people into buying older titles, disguised as new ones. Their modus operandi is new slipcovers.

For that holiday; most had a card stock sheet/flat covering the front (shrink wrapped). A few had 'actual' slipcovers; "Final Destination" was among the exceptions for "Halloween Movie Night" offerings.

That would've been that, an exclusive slip, but it doesn't end here. No. You see, somebody was asleep at the wheel.

The new slipcovers/flats mirrors their wraparound. It's easy to see what's what. But for this particular DVD they got it quite wrong.



Under the slip was "The Final Destination" (a.k.a. 'Final Destination IV') from 2009. It's a head scratcher why nobody noticed that the movie they were putting slipcovers onto looks entirely different.

I wonder how many people bought this thinking it was the first film and got home disappointed.

Being the total anal person that I am - and since the original didn't - I have that slipcover on the correct title.



Since you might be curious, above is the cover from the correct DVD.

- - - - - - - - - -

Rant.

Man it doesn't feel like it. This year marks the 21st anniversary that launched a franchise. So I got a bit curious and did some looking and basic math.

Kerr Smith who played Carter Horton was twenty-seven years old, playing a high school student.

Ali Larter as Clear Rivers was twenty-three as a high school student.

Devon Sawa who played Alex Browning was twenty-one as a high school student.

You know when you feel it. You know when it hits you, there's no mistaking when you fall. You don't anticipate it. And you can't calculate it. It just comes crashing through your walls.

- Ocean Lab

Man, we are lucky to have this movie. It began as an episode of "X-Files". The screenplay was written by James Wong and Glen Morgan with Wong directing it. The men are "X-Files" alumni; both had written fifteen episodes each and were co-executive producer on the series.

Does make me wonder what it would look like as a hour show. How far would Mulder (David Duchovny) have gone to save the students and would it be Sully (Gillian Anderson) who pulls him back - don't mess with Death; let it happen.

Would have made interesting television. Sway.



This was the flick that launched the long running film series. Currently stalled on the fifth movie, "Final Destination 5" (2011). New Line Cinema has yet to announce a sixth installment. At one point in September 2013 there was pitch to have the next one set in Middle Ages by franchise producer Craig Perry. He even did a concept trailer on YouTube, "Final Destination 6: The Dark Age", nothing came of it.

If you know how; "_cbiOv7s2Hw". It's still there (as of writing), checked. It's a mashup of over twenty different scenes from television and movies. He did a decent job.

Anyhow, these movies do make money; U.S. box office...

"Final Destination" (2000) - $53 million on a budget of $23 million
"Final Destination 2" (2003) - $46 million on a budget of $26 million
"Final Destination 3" (2006) - $54 million on a budget of $34 million
"The Final Destination [4]" (2009) - $66 million on a budget of $43 million
"Final Destination 5" (2011) - $42 million on a budget of $40 million

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - October 12th, 2021


Inglourious Basterds
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $25.99

Free Guy
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $34.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Distant Envious Eyes Welcome The Drama Part II




The limited edition soundtrack has eleven tracks; score by Leith Stevens with bonuses.

1. War Machine Sound FX Edit
2. Main Title Film Version
3. The Meteor
4. Interlude
5. The Martian Heat Ray
6. Heat Rays Aftermath
7. The Morning After The Attack
8. Escape From The Farm House
9. Exodus From Los Angeles/Finale
10. “War Of The Worlds” Alternate Version
11. War Machine Sound Effect

Track one is just an edited version (sixty seconds) of track eleven - runs forty-five minutes. It's the War Machine sound effect on a loop.



There is another CD soundtrack from Intrada in 2012. That has the most complete score, not highlights (and is going for $300.00 today, checked). This "limited edition" CD is really just a novelty. Buyer's remorse? Fuzzy. It's interesting.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tangent.

Since this is a science fiction entry, might as well go with sci-fi sexy costumes.



One of these is better than the other.

Above left is "Sexy Space Commander", a budget costume for $27.90. Guessing it is intended for single use; comes with a white romper and sweetheart neckline, silver spaghetti strap and detachable hood with clear blue mask. Arm sleeves, shoes and thigh highs stockings not included. Sure on the right woman - can be sexy. It just feels like it was bought at Hot Topic.

Next is "Blast Off Sexy Movie Character", sells for $69.00. Sixty-nine! High cut vinyl, mock neck body suit is zipped. Comes with metallic harness, garter belt and "galaxy visor". Silver knee high boots not included which make the costume work. This outfit will make you hot and howt. You're gonna sweat in vinyl. She better be touched by baby powder. And would look amazing on the right girl, exposed cleavage. Sway.

- - - - - - - - - -

Recommendations.

Four more offerings for Halloween! You may have to hunt to see - don't expect them to be available on streaming services.

"The Autopsy Of Jane Doe" (2016)
Sheriff Sheldon Burke and his deputies discover a house where a couple were brutally butchered; news has broken - media frenzy surrounding the murders. That's bad enough, but it gets worse... uncovered in the basement is a third body; buried in a shallow grave. The dead woman is... nearly flawless; no marks or blood - in her mid-twenties. Her tongue was severed (not found), lungs burnt and joints were shattered, but there is no bruising on the Jane Doe. Odder still her eyes are milky white along with a tied bell on her ankle. Burke wants answers by morning to prevent a panic or worse. The Sheriff drops the mystery on experienced coroner, Tommy Tilden - an emergency autopsy. Tilden is helped by his son Austin who was planning to leave early, a movie date with his girlfriend. But opts to stay and help his dad on the rush job. Things go very bad for them. This person didn't die... from anything pedestrian. The more they probe, the deeper the rabbit hole goes; impossible and inexplicable happenings occur. Is she really dead? The body goes missing and stalk the men - that bell is their only warning. This is a low budget feature confided to a single location concerning - a woman significantly OLDER than mid-twenties. Hint; the foundation of that house dates back to the Salem witch trials. A slow, creepy and intense feature. Sadly both the DVD and DVD/BD combo have no extras.
Shout! Factory LLC - 2017 - R

"Damnation Alley" (1977)
World War III has happened. The result is a devastated Earth (knocked off its axis) - much of it a wasteland. Isolated from the destruction is an Air Force base. The personnel have supplies, but low on morale. General Lander, base commander has shut down, barely present, leaving the men to their own accords. Two years later - Major Eugene Denton has completed a pet project with help from Lt. Tom Perry. Before they can make their announcement, the place erupts in a blaze. The main station with bunkers has fallen from a lit cigarette which started a fire that cascaded onto the fuel tanks. Boom! Horsing around outside before the explosion, friends Sgt. Tom Keegan and First Lt. Jack Tanner become the only survivors. The separate motorpool building was left untouched. What Denton was going to make known was the creation of two apocalyptic, all-terrain vehicles - the "Landmaster". For some time after the disaster, they were able to pick up a faint, weekly automated broadcast; something, something, 'Albany, New York'. No reason the stay; Denton, Perry, Keegan and Tanner head off across America in their twelve wheeled, armed tanks to the East Coast. They pit stop in Las Vegas and add two more survivors; a young French woman, Janice and an abandoned boy, Billy. No reason to stay either - they join in on their odyssey. Along the way are attacked by mutant cockroaches and mountain men who want Janice and their wheels. It's a journey to reach Albany, a trek they made in a round about way - testing the limits of their tank. This is best known for the apocalyptic RV, it has become an iconic sci-fi vehicle. Silly and cheesy at times, but played serious. This is available on DVD and Blu-Ray.
Shout! Factory - 2011 - PG

"Siberia" (2013)
Not a movie, but a short run supernatural TV series (drenched in dread and atmosphere), ran for twelve weeks on NBC, but failed in the ratings, not well known. Not even a cult series. Many have called this a mashup of "Lost" and "Survivor" which is what it is, the best of both. "Siberia" is a reality TV show where sixteen contestants are blindfolded and dropped in the middle of nowhere in the Siberian region of Tunguska. The goal is to be the last one standing; survive the winter as people did in the early 1900s and win half a million or split among the few who endured. No modern amenities - their suitcases and packs were not given; only what they are wearing is what they have. There are no rules, trust no one. The show breaks down early when one of the Russian camera men comes into the settlement, bloody. Production shuts down as they reveal one of the contestants has died from injuries from a fall. After serious debating - the competition is agreed to continue. One of them searches for answers and discovers the location; there was no fall, he died from being torn apart as seen by the bloody stains. Things get much worse when a serious injury occurs and discovering, there is no help coming. The exit, the forfeit button is fiction. And the occurrences are not part of the show. This game wasn't a game, this is an experiment by unseen hands to explore the phenomena of the area. The harsh weather is the least of their worries. They are the third iteration. It appears that the two other 'contestant' groups were killed. The DVD is titled "Season One", but it's really 'The Complete Series'. There was no season two and it ends on a cliff hanger. It's a well deserved trip. The actors were not given scripts, their interactions look genuine since they were all role playing, only given character personalities and plot points. The result is natural actions. Highly recommend; clues to what's going on were sprinkled in the early episodes - none, spoon fed. Many blink and miss it moments with serious twists. It will keep you guessing and bitch slap your suspicions, repeatedly. There's even a bit of time travel and alien abduction mixed in.
Lionsgate - 2014 - NR

"Willy's Wonderland" (2021)
Hayesville, Nevada - a quiet (unnamed) drifter gets his wheels popped from a misplace police spike strip. He doesn't have the money to fix his car. The loner is approached by Tex Macadoo who offers him a deal. He owns the abandoned, family theme restaurant - "Willy's Wonderland". He wants to reopen the establishment, but is short on workers at the moment. Tex's trade - spend the night and clean the place up and he'll pay the auto repairs. They shake hands and the nightmare begins. The drifter discovers that he's been locked in the place, unsure if this was to keep the eatery from vandals since the place has various graffiti - he does his agreed task and cleans up the restaurant. What the loner doesn't know, this is a con. He's not expected to survive. The locale's animatronic mascots are in fact alive, the result of demonic possessions. This is nothing less than a blood sacrifice, one of many over the years. Helps somewhat comes from local teens who want the place burned down, they know the business is evil. But due to bad luck and stupidity become trapped with the loner. How many will survive the night? This movie was heavily influenced by the jump scare video game, "Five Nights At Freddy" (2014). One of the most Nicolas Cage's Cages movies. As if all his eccentricities were given a green light, the result is the right mix of crazy and cheese... and blood, lots of gore. This is available on DVD and Blu-Ray.
Screen Media - 2021 - NR



Odd to think we almost got this - filmmakers were going to the novel for the War Machines. Above left is early concept art for the alien ships. The used - manta ray design was so different and has become iconic.

Limited Edition Horrror continues next week with more trepidations. Could be nothing more than a panic attack... or NOT! Or perhaps indigestion - whatever.

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Distant Envious Eyes Welcome The Drama Part I


The crash wasn't enough to bring the tow unhinged from the truck. But shook everything inside and like a quake - many of the objects and even chairs were toss about. The place was well crafted, still in one piece. You were on your hands and knees waiting for the next thing to happen and it didn't - at least a couple minutes of nothing.

A silent and slow rise to your feet. Turn the floodlights back on? Even for a moment? Did the lights make... whatever that was angry? It was dark, can't see anything. You hung for a few beats next to the switch. But flipped it 'on'. Looking out the main window, you saw nothing but forest. The same with the next window and the next.

Coming to the bedroom, you saw the dent first and then the window, blood draining down. What happened? You moved towards it and through the crimson saw on the ground, the other half of that bear. Half isn't quite accurate. There was a large bite mark in the area where the other part would've been. Something had killed the beast, broke it into two and threw half of it at the RV?

There is no way around it. It has - had happened. Again it popped in your head - 'turn the lights off', now beyond saving battery life. The floodlights were off once more. Then another thought came - shut the curtains in the dining area. Once more just as they were pulled, you saw them in the distance.

Red glowing eyes, looking at you. Thoughts ran in your mind. Was this some kind of creature? Or something else... supernatural. You were thinking that as you looked down and saw the used pot with some lingering pasta in it. And a somber conclusion - you didn't tell anyone where you were going. You wanted some 'me' time to test run the tow. You are alone - here, no cell signals, no distractions. No help coming.

Once again the roar happened. This RV isn't impervious - it will break with enough force, you need to take actions now, while time is still on your side. What can be used as a weapon or a makeshift weapon? Something lite enough to be carried if you had to flee from the truck and tow. Then another thought surfaced - you know how you came here. But what lies in the other direction? Sure the blanket answer is 'forest', but that's more than just a word.

Lost in the forest is a real thing and here, now - running in that direction; might as well slice open your wrists, you're dead. You are in this thing's backyard. So no matter what happens, you need to run or go for the truck, rush out in the same direction you drove in. Your mental plan is interrupted, it is howling once more.

But this time it sounded a lot closer. Dread. Fear. You take comfort that Hannah isn't here. Safe in her place, probably reading one of her books. You hope to see her again.

Half a bear thrown. Half a bear thrown. It's gonna be a long night.

Welcome to week two of "Limited Edition Horror" 2021; a two parter! In this brand new entry we are revisited by a classic invader from the deep space by way of "War Of The Worlds: A Video Scrapbook"...



I have very limited info - damn impossible to find. Can't even give you a street date. The website (store, fanboy merchandise) Monsters In Motion hosted a special screening of the 1953 motion picture to coincide with the 2005 Steven Spielberg remake. Don't ask. I can't find the screening date.

So I can't tell you much. This was not issued a slipcover nor insert. And is in fact a DVD-R with printed label, not some cheap ink jet glued on. And all the content inside appears to have come from somebody's VHS copy. Plus the audio on one - is messed up. The last bit I have is that this came in a red DVD case.

- - -

That website's exclusive could be bought in person at that screening and once again much later.

Paid $14.99 (not including shipping and tax) in late July 2020 from their website. They had earlier been going through their inventory to make room, getting rid of older products. And had discovered they still had a box remaining of this DVD and CD soundtracks from their event. Both are limited editions (same price). I'll cover that CD in a few.

Warehouse Find - We found a big box of stuff from a special screening of War Of The Worlds that was hosted by Monsters In Motion back in the early 2000's. We have a limited supply of DVD's and CDs from this event and we are now making them available to you!

- Monsters In Motion email advertising; September 5th, 2018

Yes. I forgot about the items for nearly two years then it popped back in mind. Do they still have them for sale? Yes. Yes they do, bought both.

Understand - at time time, I thought I was ripped off, a copy or bootleg. I've had some bad experiences with the site, they sell bootlegs; DVD-Rs and CD-Rs. The other merchandise is real; toys, books, model kits and figurines. I had to do the research and discovered, no - I have the real deal.



There was no pressed discs and it was in fact a website exclusive, under their banner "RetroFlicks". Interesting. The disc is unrated and region free.

It has three parts - all together the disc is 45:24 minutes long, presented in full screen in what appears to be from a VHS transfer; not that great, but watchable.

"Effects Outakes" is just that and has unrelated music - added since the footage is silent. So this is in stereo. Ranges from poor to fair. No remastering. You can find much of this footage in the 2020 Criterion release... remastered.

"Photo Gallery" is a slide show with sixty-nine images with info/trivia screens. And like with the above has added music, also in stereo. These pictures cover story boards, behind the scenes pixs and promotional images from varied sources. No remastering either.

"TV Pilot" is what most people bought this DVD scrapbook for. And looks the worst of the lot. A few generations, video cassette transfer. No remastering at all. Audio comes out from the left side only (was always in mono). This is less a pilot as it were an extended concept trailer; a good chunk of this presentation was done with conceptual artwork. The rest was done with actors in front of blue screens with models, optically merged. Only a tiny bit of the set were built for the actors.



I did some work on the bridge image, two shots stitched together. Man, you can see poor this is. The scrapbook is the only way to see the 'pilot' on DVD. The concept trailer is narrated by Leslie Nielsen (uncredited).

Sure, this is not really part of the 1953 film. It takes place in an alternate Earth (technologically advanced). The world has no nations, a globalist paradise. Farming of the seas is used to feed the masses (not limited to fish) and no child is born without government approval. This is when the interstellar battle happens.

Our war with the aliens took decades. Decades. We could not win the fight, but had victory because of a virus that effected the invaders. They died. The aliens who were not effected, retreat back to their mother ship, leaving Earth to reorganize.

Not wanting a second attack - Earth built six hyperspace vessels to find their home world. Force them to surrender or take the fight to them. We would've followed the crew of "Pegasus", ship number five. It is in effect, a one way mission; multi-generation crew, fifty men and women with various reasons to go after the extraterrestrials.

Pegasus is under the command of Col. James Anderson. Disaster hits them, no more communications with Earth or even the other hyperspace ships. Alone in deep space. They find their home world and discover they are plotting the next wave.

We get some aliens, humanoid cave men (yeah) and their underground base - that's it. As said, only some minor sets were built and all the costumes were repurposed from other TV productions. It needed a lot of work. But this project was to gain investors, proof of concept.

Their big deal was getting production designer Matt Jefferies from "Star Trek" (1966) to create the tech for the show. Don't know how much he accomplished other than some model work on the alien world. *shrugs* The concept trailer is 14:07 minutes long.

So? The woman on the bridge - is that part of the elevator or does she have braces? Polo survivor? And their space ship looks like a left over from Gerry Anderson.



This pilot is not on the 2005 "Special Collector's Edition", nor the '20 "Criterion Collection" releases (DVD and Blu-Ray). Can only find it here on disc. The pilot was made in the mid 1970s, produced by George Pal. The same Pal who produced the '53 movie.

I wish it was remastered, it's a real bit of lost sci-fi history. Well that's not 100% true. It can also be found on YoutTube - also not remastered.

Okay. At that special screening for the film they sold the scrapbook DVD and a limited edition CD soundtrack with sound effects. The idea is to add this to your model kit with a sound chip. Added value to your Martian War Machine model or statue.

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - October 19th, 2021


Old
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $34.99

Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/DC combo $34.99

Apocalypse Now: Final Cut
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD $19.99

Injustice: Gods Among Us
Exclusive steelbook; 4k BD/BD/DC combo $34.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - He Knows Kung Vamp-Fu Part II


So we didn't get another with Snipes, but we did get two TV attempts to wash our fanboy eyes.



First was in 2006, aired on the former channel, Spike TV for thirteen hour episodes. This was a direct sequel to "Trinity" with Kirk "Sticky Fingaz" Jones as Blade. Bought my DVD from Best Buy on a pricing error. I want to say about fifteen dollars when it should've been $39.98 (from New Line Home Entertainment; four discs).

Adaptation was decent, entertaining enough. Does feels like we got 'discount' Snipes; a rapper cosplaying Blade. *shrugs* Goyer co-wrote the pilot and served as executive producer. This co-stars Jill Wagner as vampire hunter Krista Starr. In 2011 she would star as Kate Argent on "Teen Wolf" (for MTV) as a werewolf hunter.

Anyhow, the last was in 2011 with "Blade: The Animated Series" for another former channel, G4; twelve half hour episodes. Harold Perrineau voices Blade; Perrineau best known as Michael Dawson on the former TV series, "Lost". This too is on DVD (from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment). As you can see from above, it was anime. I haven't seen it yet, but do own two disc set.

Sure, "Trinity" has a stinger after the end credits; Blade in his car, off to his next adventure. But feels like an outtake slapped on.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tangent.

The next wave of Halloween costumes for attention is here. Indeed!



Both of these are somewhat muted, yet quite feminine. Bold even in it's simplicity.

First is "Sexy Squirrel" - sells for $44.99. Two items; squirrel hoodie (form fitting) and the acorn purse. The tail is part of the hoodie. Glad to see the theme purse is included, furry boots are not, but DO complete the effect. Could add gray fishnet stockings. What does she have under that? Could be booty shorts, a g-string or nothing at all, that rascal.

The drawback - does not have any open cleavage, her chest is covered by fur. So this is an outfit that would be great on a cold night. But... it is white, so it could get dirty easy, especially when eating.

Next is "Sexy Mail Delivery" outfit. It sells for $59.99. You get a functional mail bag/purse, button short sleeved shirt, matching skirt and hat. Sadly no knee high stockings. Shoes are anything you want; basic sneakers can do the trick. There are few variants to this idea: "Postal Honey", "You've Got Mail", "U.S. Mail Service" and "Precious Cargo Sexy Postal Delivery" costumes, the last with a USPS theme.

What's the patch? The outline of a stripper, striking a pose in red and white - with the text "United States XXXpress Service". *wink* On the right women, can be sexy while demure. There's not a lot of skin showing, like with the squirrel, mostly legs. Granted she could unbutton her top for greater effect.

- - - - - - - - - -

Easter Eggs.

Haven't done one of these in a long while; studios have really dropped the ball on hidden extras. Well, this came out in '04. There are three eggs. These are from the DVD edition. Don't know if they're on the Blu-Ray.

Disc 1 - Main Menu -> highlight "DVD-ROM/Online Features", press down; highlight New Line logo - ENTER.

Disc one credits, menu.

- - -

There are two here; behind the scenes on the making of Blade caught, hanging upside down and disc two credits, menu.

Disc 2 - Main Menu -> highlight "Inside The World Of Blade Trinity", press up; highlight the Q like symbol - ENTER.

Disc 2 - Main Menu -> highlight "DVD-ROM/Online Features", press down; highlight New Line logo - ENTER.

- - - - - - - - - -

Recommendations.

Last full suggestions; next week is far too close to Halloween. You should already know what you're going to be watching. As said last outing - don't expect them to be available on streaming services; act accordingly.

"It Stains The Sands Red" (2016)
Las Vegas - the zombie apocalypse has begun; exotic dancer, Molly thinks she has it made; fleeing with a rich guy, Nick in his sports car. Racing away from the city on the highway far from the carnage - towards salvation, a distant airfield for a flight out of the country. Her hopes get squashed when their car gets stuck in the sands, becoming nightmarish when Nick is murdered, devoured by an undead as Nick tries to get the car freed. With no recourse, Molly runs into the desert blind, a general direction - hoping to reach that private flight before it takes off. But her situation grows dire still, that same living dead fellow is now pursuing her; a one on one horror drama. It never rests and won't stop till it gets her.
MPI Media Group - 2017 - NR

"Remote Control: 25th Anniversary Edition" (1988)
The 1980s; Cosmo works for his friend Georgie at "Village Video" - a Los Angeles video rental shop inside a refurbished, multi-leveled, ex-movie theater. While helping one of his regulars, Allegra; he meets a woman of interest - Belinda Watson. She's looking for a romantic French feature. He can't find it. She leaves. But leaves with her possessive boyfriend Victor, not before seeking his current want. Victor has his sights on a new video title, "Remote Control". The VHS that Allegra snagged; a tense moment, but she wins. As she checks out, he looks at the computer monitor and sees her home address. It is these two random people that set off a string of events that take Cosmo, Belinda and Georgie into a cosmic home video conspiracy. Aliens from the Polaris star system want Earth, but do not have the numbers to take the planet over. So they've opted to use our tech against ourselves - VHS cassettes. Reality altering videos which insert subliminal, ultra violent messages. All those who see it become homicidal; this is how they plan on reducing our numbers. This leaves the trio as Earth's last and only hope, an improbable invasion. At times quite meta. This has been released by the director himself on his website; DVD and BD - remastered in 2k, region 0. This was the movie starring Kevin Dillon before he did the horror classic, "The Blob" ('88) remake.
JeffLiebermanDirector dot com - 2013 - R

"Shadow In The Cloud" (2020)
August 8th, 1943 - Allied Air Force courier, Flight Officer Maude Garrett has been assigned to "The Fool's Errand", a B-17 bomber; New Zealand to Samoa. For her it's a delivery of a confidential, top secret package. For the crew this assignment is shuttling needed transponders. Over the ocean events unfold that test the crew and Garrett. The bomber has been discovered by Japanese fighters. They're being hunted, but this isn't the worst of it. They're also being hunted from within, a stowaway. A thing of rumor and military myth. This is not some cute and furry mogwai - this is an old school... gremlin - and it is sabotaging the flight on violent pursuits. Garrett will go to extreme lengths to keep her parcel protected and crew alive - all the while being shot at by enemy aircraft. Over the top at times and utterly popcorn gold from cinematography to pounding synthwave soundtrack, a throwback to 1980s horror. On DVD and Blu-Ray with zero bonuses.
Vertical Entertainment, LLC - 2021 - R

"Witches In The Woods" (2019)
Five friends take a shortcut; a snow boarding trip to a ski resort. Their SUV becomes stranded due to an accident, no help and no cell service - nobody knows they're there. Night brings a sudden temperature drop, left with no choice but to run the engine to keep the heater on. But their problem isn't what's happening outdoors, but rather what's going on inside. The group starts to unravel from the stress. And is one of their own having a mental breakdown? These woods were cursed a century earlier, the result of an allege witch execution. Is this just auto fever or dark forces in the forest, a possession? Was even the car crash an accident? Before dawn, the friends will be greeted with violent decisions and circumstances which will test their bonds, transforming into... a witch hunt. This is available on DVD and BD, but sadly no extras.
Shout! Factory LLC - 2020 - NR

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*Wojciech Kilar's "The Hunters Prelude" plays in the background*



Thought I'd include this, a hardcover graphic novel - "Bram Stoker's Dracula"... with Bela Lugosi as the immortal. Often covers are made to get your attention, but the inside artwork is lacking. Nope, not here; what you see is exactly what you're getting. I was damn impressed, this was a labor of love. And presenting Lugosi as Dracula was an excellent idea, surprised this wasn't done earlier.

This has been out since November 3rd, 2020; two hundred pages from Legendary Comics. Get it. If you're a horror fan, you won't be disappointed. As of this writing - can be found at Amazon for twenty-two dollars.

By the way, one of the early iterations of "Trinity" had Rachel Van Helsing from the "Tomb Of Dracula" comic books. But when Goyer learned about "Van Helsing" (2004), he opted to remake the character as Abigail Whistler.

Just so you know - this entry was suppose to be part of the 1st annual "Limited Edition Horror" in 2015. But one thing and another kept it from happening.

The end is near. One more week left of LEH. One more week of banes. Come back here next Thursday for the finale. Bring your holy water and spirits or a bottle of spirits, your choice. See you then.