Latest from Geek Vibes Nation
Geek Vibes Nation
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Frailty' 4K UHD Blu-Ray Review - Bill Paxton Crafts One Of The Finest Psychological Thrillers Around
Frailty, Bill Paxton's striking directorial debut — now in chilling 4K for the first time — centers on the God's Hand Killer, who terrorized a small Texas community with his axe-wielding butchery. Years after the murders, Fenton Meiks (Matthew McConaughey) walks into an FBI office with a shocking revelation: he not only knows who the killer is, but where the bodies are buried. Fenton recounts how his father (Paxton) received an angelic vision commanding the destruction of demons in human form, and enlisted Fenton and his brother, Adam, to aid in the divine purge. What the boys witnessed tested the limits of their minds and souls, fusing family, retribution, and redemption in horrifying, unsettling ways. For thoughts on Frailty, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required: Video Quality Frailty debuts on 4K UHD Blu-Ray with a 2160p/Dolby Vision presentation in 1.85:1 which allows the film to look absolutely spectacular. The previous Blu-Ray released in 2009 looks awful in comparison with its ancient, processed master. At long last, this gem from Bill Paxton is being treated with the proper respect, and the results are astounding. The new 4K presentation unlocks an invaluable amount of detail in the smallest facets of the rustic production design, clothing, and makeup effects. The increase in detail is a blessing in the exploration of textures, including the beads of perspiration on foreheads. Skin tones appear to be consistent throughout and show a notable amount of facial detail including stubble and blood splatter. Color refinement is another area of significant improvement in comparison to the Blu-Ray thanks to the implementation of Dolby Vision. Colors look more natural and complex, especially with such lush greenery around the farm. The most worthwhile upgrade comes in the handling of the contrast. With so much of this narrative occurring at night or in shadows, it would be easy to succumb crush and banding, which it often does in the standard Blu-Ray presentation. The 4K UHD Blu-Ray shows off with particularly deep black levels with digital noise nearly completely absent from the screen. The presentation also holds up with a firm handling of the highlights that show no evidence of blooming. This is an unbelievable 4K UHD upgrade that is not to be missed. Audio Quality This disc gets an upgrade with a phenomenal Dolby Atmos presentation that entrenches you in this spiritual nightmare. Sounds are faithfully deployed with the sharpest directionality from the more thrilling moments to the interpersonal exchanges. The effective score from Brian Tyler flows through you to make you feel more unsettled than ever. The sound design is not required to deliver an action-packed assault, but it is appropriately lively in order to make everything feel authentic. The low end gets activated more so when there are sound effects such as thunder or when visions are triggered. The mix here is respectfully expanded with noble engagement of all the channels, so those with a proper system should be pleased. Dialogue is presented clearly without ever being overwhelmed by any of the competing sonic elements. This track is often immersive, such as the sounds of rain coming down from the overhead channels. Lionsgate has made this audio experience really sing. Optional English, English SDH, and Spanish subtitles are provided. Special Features This release comes in an incredible new Collector's Set exclusively at Lionsgate Limited that is quite fetching in person. The set features a hard slip box case and a printed reproduction of director Bill Paxton's complete original shooting script, with handwritten notes throughout. Video of the release can be found at the top of this review. Father Figure: A new 34-minute featurette that weaves in both new and archival interviews with Bill Paxton, Matthew McConaughey, writer Brent Hanley, producer David Kirschner, producer David Blocker, Bill Paxton's son James Paxton, and more. In this piece, you get great insights into the production of the film, the directorial vision of Bill Paxton, the relationship between the performers, the music of the film, and more. Establishing Shot: A new seven-minute featurette that delves into the care put into the 4K restoration of the film. More Stories from the Frailty Set: Another new 19-minute featurette in which many of the subjects providing new interviews from the first piece relay more stories that could not fit neatly into that piece. There are great anecdotes about inviting James Cameron to watch the movie, Bill Paxton imparting acting wisdom to the young performers, and more. There is even a nice reunion between Matt O'Leary and Jeremy Sumpter. Teaser Trailer (1:04) Theatrical Trailer (2:07) Legacy Special Features: This new disc carries over the features from the 2009 Lionsgate Blu-Ray release. Audio Commentary #1: Director Bill Paxton Audio Commentary #2: Editor Arnold Glassman, Producer David Kirschner, and Composer Brian Tyler Audio Commentary #3: Writer Brent Hanley Anatomy of a Scene – Featurette Courtesy of Sundance Channel (25:58) The Making of Frailty (19:29) Deleted Scenes with Optional Director Commentary (8:28) Storyboard Gallery (3:02) Photo Gallery (1:35) TV Spots (0:48) Final Thoughts Frailty is a terrific directorial effort from the late, great Bill Paxton, who is likewise delivering some of his best work in front of the camera, as well. This psychological tale keeps you on your toes as you try to decipher whether the horror you are witnessing is man-made or from a higher power. The tension is sustained very well throughout, and every performance lends a significant amount of authenticity to the proceedings. Even with its acclaim, it is an underrated piece of cinema. Lionsgate Home Entertainment has released a 4K UHD Blu-Ray that sports a top-tier A/V presentation and a valuable section of special features in lovely packaging. This is as respectful of a tribute to Bill Paxton as you could wish for. Highly Recommended Frailty is currently available to purchase exclusively at Lionsgate Limited on 4K UHD Blu-ray. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: Lionsgate Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Geek Vibes Nation
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Bambi: The Reckoning' Review - Another Beloved Children's Story Twisted And Tortured Into A Shoddy Horror Film
The Twisted Childhood Universe returns with another horrifying reimagining of a famous story. This time, Bambi is on the chopping block, or, more accurately, Bambi the deer is now the hunter instead of the hunted. The preconceived notions about these films are deeply ingrained at this point. No one is expecting The Shining, or even Terrifier. These adaptations exist to subvert the classic children's stories and rework them into garish nightmares. Success is mainly in the eye of the beholder. To some, these movies are right on target as a fun and scary spoof. To others, a blatant degradation of public domain characters, all to make a B-grade horror movie. When it comes to Bambi: The Reckoning, it is the latter rather than the former. The only interesting part of Bambi: The Reckoning occurs at the beginning of the film. There is an accounting of what happened to Bambi and his mother. The depiction is stylized and almost gives an inkblot vibe, giving us hope that this retelling may have some substance behind it. And then the movie starts. Bambi goes mutant in this entry, because why not? The story is simple and debased. After the death of his mother, a grief-stricken Bambi goes on a deadly rampage, seeking revenge for the death of his mother. Following a car wreck, a mother, Xana (Roxanne McKee), and her son, Benji (Tom Mulheron), find themselves in Bambi's vengeful crosshairs and soon become hunted by the crazed deer. To its credit, Bambi: The Reckoning knows precisely what it is doing here. There is never an attempt to become a highbrow horror exploit or some provocative examination of grief and the bond between mothers and sons. However, that still does not absolve the film of its shortcomings. The script is too pedantic. There is an infusion of subplots and forced family drama to try to give the movie some weight. Characters make idiotic-horror-movie decisions, and Bambi is like the shark from Jaws, but on land. Galloping through the forest, terrorizing all in its wake, and owning the night. Bambi is vengeance, but the act feels like a one-trick pony show. Yet, the movie introduces a surprisingly different angle where, much like the Frankenstein monster, we begin to question if Bambi is a mere vengeful animal or a creature of misunderstanding. This element of humanity does lend the film some extra weight; however, the brief runtime prevents these elements from becoming fully developed story points, instead leaving them as mere elements. The movie waffles between being a traditional horror film and something a tad melodramatic; this is, after all, a retelling of Bambi. However, these tonal shifts only add to the confusing walk through the woods that is this movie. A film like this does not possess grand or even ambitious aims. In the same tradition of the Winnie the Pooh monstrosity, Bambi, in this course of events, is the epitome of a creature feature. Hellbent and unstoppable. Clocking in at an hour and twenty minutes, there is little excess fat on this story. However, the added elements, such as a quick commentary on animal cruelty and the strength of family bonds, are never given enough time to marinate and become mere cannon fodder to the plot. Perhaps, the film's biggest plus has nothing to do with the overall plot or trappings, but it is Bambi himself. The digital deer is surprisingly practical and realistic. For a creature feature, this monster is a stand-out. Even the gruesome kills in Bambi renderings are imaginative and bloody. Still, this is something of a ghost deer of a movie. We know it is there, but we never know where or what it is. Bambi: The Reckoning is currently playing in theaters courtesy of ITN Studios and Jagged Edge Productions.
Geek Vibes Nation
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Lord Of Illusions' 4K UHD Blu-Ray Review - Clive Barker Makes Magic A Reality In Bloody Supernatural Thriller
From best-selling author and celebrated director Clive Barker (Candyman, Nightbreed) comes a supernatural thriller that rips apart the boundaries between sanity and madness, and between the art of illusion and the terrifying forces of magic. Harry D'Amour (Scott Bakula, Quantum Leap) is a private detective on a seemingly routine investigation in Los Angeles. But Harry gets more than he bargained for when he encounters an enigmatic performer (Kevin J. O'Connor, Deep Rising) whose amazing illusions captivate the world … but are they really just illusions? Harry isn't so sure as he is thrust into a nightmare of murder and deception from the dark beyond. Famke Janssen (GoldenEye, X-Men) also stars in this thrilling supernatural mystery. Barker's illuminating Director's Cut is now presented in Ultra High-Definition with all-new Special Features. For thoughts on Lord Of Illusions, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required: Video Quality Scream Factory presents Lord Of Illusions on 4K UHD Blu-Ray with a stellar 2160p transfer in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio sourced from a new 4K restoration of the Original Camera Negative with Dolby Vision/HDR. This release contains Clive Barker's Director's Cut of the film, but the theatrical cut is not provided. There is also no accompanying Blu-Ray provided like the label typically provides. The film was previously released by the label on Blu-Ray in 2014 from a dated master. We do not have that release to compare the level of improvement, but we can say with some degree of certainty that this is the best the film has ever looked. The natural film grain remains faithfully intact and brings out all of the unique flourishes in the background. The grain resolves exceptionally with nothing ever feeling splotchy even within the shadowy environments. The deployment of Dolby Vision/HDR for dazzling and pinpoint color output elevates things to ideal levels when it comes to depth and nuance. Audiences can now discern much more shadow detail with figures properly defined instead of blending into the unformed background. Black levels are first-rate with nothing in the way of crush or banding present even in the dark corridors. Highlights are firm with no semblance of blooming in the brightest moments. This disc handles every subtle environmental change with ease. There are no egregious digital anomalies such as compression artifacts or any other such shortcomings. There are some cool, disgusting practical effects at play, but you will also spot some dated digital effects that do not hold up well. This is accurate to the source, though, and not an issue with the transfer. All specks of damage have been cleaned up thanks to the restoration. This presentation is a knockout from the team at Scream Factory. Audio Quality The 4K UHD Blu-Ray disc comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 and 2.0 Master Audio track which both accomplish everything you could want. The score from Simon Boswell has never sounded clearer and more full of life, and it is used deftly to establish the tone of the story. There is never a moment when it threatens to overshadow the competing sounds, and it maintains a respectable balance so that dialogue comes through crisp and clear. This narrative typically delivers a multifaceted approach to sound design that becomes very immersive with the surround mix. Both tracks provide a capable soundscape that accurately captures the artistic intent with a fidelity that is effortlessly translated. Environmental sounds such as fire and gasps from the crowd are rendered well alongside everything else. There do not seem to be any egregious instances of age-related wear and tear. Scream Factory has put forth a great effort for fans. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided. Special Features Audio Commentary: Director Clive Barker provides a very informative commentary track in which he discusses the film in minute detail from his motivations with the disturbing opening credits, his additions to the director's cut, and the journey to the ending. Flesh Is A Trap: Scoring Lord of Illusions – Interview with Composer Simon Boswell: A new 22-minute interview with the composer in which he discusses his background and career around the time of this production, working with Clive Barker, inspirations for the tone of the score, and more. Drawing Boards – Interview with Storyboard Artist Martin Mercer: A 12-minute interview with the artist who discusses getting involved with the project, working with Barker to bring his world to life, memorable moments, and more. A Gathering of Magic: An 18-minute vintage featurette that takes a look at the production of the film through interviews with writer/director Clive Barker, producer JoAnne Seller, and actors Scott Bakula, Famke Janssen, and Daniel von Bargen. Original Behind-The-Scenes Footage: A 62-minute collection of footage that shows some on-set interviews and attempts to create some of the most grotesque moments of the film. Deleted Scenes: A nearly four-minute glimpse at some footage that didn't make the final cut in an unfinished form and commentary from Clive Barker. Photo Gallery (15:53) A Note from Clive Barker: A two-minute text screen message from the director. Theatrical Trailer (1:05) Final Thoughts Lord Of Illusions is somewhat more straightforward for a Clive Barker film, but that does not mean it does not have an edge to it. The gritty film noir about deadly illusionists has many disturbing moments that fit right in line with the output from the filmmaker, and even the presence of some dated special effects does not undercut this. Despite our general appreciation of his work, we are not sure if Scott Bakula was the right choice for the lead, but all of the character actors are suitably memorable. It is a mixed bag of a film, but it is well worth the journey into madness. Scream Factory has provided the film with a 4K UHD Blu-Ray release that boasts a first-rate A/V presentation and a welcome collection of special features. Recommended Lord Of Illusions (Collector's Edition) is currently available to purchase on 4K UHD Blu-Ray. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: Scream Factory has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Geek Vibes Nation
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
‘Happy Gilmore 2' Review - Insanely Silly And Heartwarming Fun
Take this with a grain of salt, but upon closer analysis, Netflix's Happy Gilmore 2 reveals a comedy that is smarter than it seems. For one, the original Happy Gilmore was about challenging the elitism of a stuffy, purist golf culture that needed a shake-up. A sort of lowbrow Caddyshack—if such a thing is possible—it was a blue-collar redemption story where talent and heart mattered more than etiquette. Which brings me to my point about Happy Gilmore 2: it revives that same working-class story in a setting the titular character once brought to golf—a world that has now gotten way, and I mean way, out of hand. Sandler is back with a sensibility only he can bring to the screen. This time, however, he has cleverly satirized commercialization and the modern evolution of golf. Particularly, the marketing of sports often clashes with tradition. Oh, and the movie happens to be funny, insanely silly, and heartwarming fun. The story picks up years after Happy Gilmore's (Adam Sandler) successful golf career. He's now married to the love of his life, Virginia (Modern Family's Julie Bowen, reprising her role from the original—a recurring theme in the film). They have five kids together, including four rough-and-tumble boys. Their youngest, Vienna (You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah's Sunny Sandler), is an aspiring ballet dancer. Oh, and John Daly hilariously lives in Happy's garage. Happy wants to retire, but Virginia believes he won't be—well, happy—without the game he loves. However, after a family tragedy, Happy quits golf, turns to drinking, and loses all his money. Happy now works at a grocery store to support his family (and apparently John Daly). That is, until Vienna accepts a prestigious ballet academy in Paris. Great, right? Well, hold on, because the tuition bill of over $300,000 is too much for them to afford. That is, until Frank Manatee (Benny Safdie—Sandler, rewarding him for directing Uncut Gems) approaches Happy with the deal of a lifetime. The CEO of Maxi Energy Drink wants to sponsor a new kind of game: Maxi Golf. The vision resembles characters from a Mad Max movie, and the courses resemble gigantic mini golf on steroids. Frank wants to make Happy the face of his brand of chaos in a gentleman's game. The real question is whether Happy will be able to find his stroke again to make his daughter's dreams come true. Happy Gilmore 2 was directed by Kyle Newacheck (What We Do in the Shadows). Working from a script from Sandler and Tim Herlihy, who cowrote such golden-age Sandler comedies as Billy Madison, The Waterboy, and The Wedding Singer. The movie tells a sweet story about family while honoring the original in multiple ways. For instance, all Happy's Boys do the same shtick he did on the job when he was on the golf course. An underlying theme is the love for his wife, Virginia, showing the performer's growth as a storyteller. Many will point to an overemphasis on nods to the original and star cameos. However, new ones like Bad Bunny, John Daly, and Travis Kelce steal the scenes they are in. Also, Ben Stiller and Christopher McDonald are comedic gems reprising their roles. However, Sandler always makes his films a family affair. He brings in relatives of members who have passed away, while also using special effects to create poignant cameos for those who have passed on. That is what makes Happy Gilmore 2 worth watching for the nostalgia factor alone, with Sandler bringing back everyone in some shape or form. For one, he returns to his comedic style, but also demonstrates his maturity by honoring those who gave him a helping hand. Not to mention the audience that always lent their support. The movie is a legacy sequel that is so much fun, you forget the controlled comedic chaos of it all, let go, and enjoy the experience for what it is. Happy Gilmore 2 is now available to stream exclusively on Netflix.
Geek Vibes Nation
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
Paramount To Release The Epic Conclusion 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning' On 4K UHD Blu-Ray
Paramount Home Entertainment has officially announced that the final installment in the action franchise Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning will be available to own on 4K UHD SteelBook, 4K UHD Blu-Ray, Blu-Ray, and DVD on October 14, 2025. The film will also be available on Digital platforms on August 19th. The film is directed by Christopher McQuarrie, and it stars Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, alongside an ensemble cast including Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Vanessa Kirby, Esai Morales, Pom Klementieff, Henry Czerny, and Angela Bassett. Fans who purchase the film can take a deep dive into the breathtaking production with behind-the-scenes interviews, exclusive commentary, and deleted footage not seen in theatres! Get the details below! Synopsis: Our lives are the sum of our choices. Tom Cruise is Ethan Hunt in MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – The Final Reckoning. Special Features BEHIND THE SCENES Taking Flight— Tom Cruise and director Christopher M c Quarrie take you through the biplanes stunt. Witness them push things to the next level to capture these incredible flight sequences. Tom Cruise and director Christopher M Quarrie take you through the biplanes stunt. Witness them push things to the next level to capture these incredible flight sequences. To The Depths— Dive in with Tom Cruise and director Christopher M c Quarrie to explore every detail of the water tank/moving gimbal, the special masks/water suits, and the rigorous planning and execution of this one-of-a-kind stunt. Dive in with Tom Cruise and director Christopher M Quarrie to explore every detail of the water tank/moving gimbal, the special masks/water suits, and the rigorous planning and execution of this one-of-a-kind stunt. To The North— Journey with the cast and crew to see how they filmed in extreme conditions to create the breathtaking sequence in the high Arctic of Svalbard. Journey with the cast and crew to see how they filmed in extreme conditions to create the breathtaking sequence in the high Arctic of Svalbard. Through the Mine— Explore the Middleton Mine as the team highlights the risks, challenges, and practical elements to pull off this incredible action sequence. Explore the Middleton Mine as the team highlights the risks, challenges, and practical elements to pull off this incredible action sequence. The Score—A behind-the-scenes look at the original music composed for the film. EDITORIAL CONTENT Deleted Footage Montage with Optional Commentary by Director Christopher M c Quarrie— Director Christopher M c Quarrie shares some of the stunning, never-before-seen deleted shots that did not make the final film. Director Christopher M Quarrie shares some of the stunning, never-before-seen deleted shots that did not make the final film. Olifants River Canyon with Optional Commentary by Director Christopher M c Quarrie— Director Christopher M c Quarrie details the difficulties of shooting the dangerous, low level flying sequence through the Olifants River Canyon in South Africa. Director Christopher M Quarrie details the difficulties of shooting the dangerous, low level flying sequence through the Olifants River Canyon in South Africa. Biplane Transfer with Optional Commentary by Director Christopher M c Quarrie and Tom Cruise—Tom Cruise and director Christopher M c Quarrie discuss the challenges of filming the highly technical and extremely dangerous biplane transfer stunt at high altitudes. COMMENTARIES Commentary by Director Christopher M c Quarrie and Tom Cruise— Enjoy a compelling, in-depth discussion with Christopher M c Quarrie and Tom Cruise. Enjoy a compelling, in-depth discussion with Christopher M Quarrie and Tom Cruise. Commentary by Director Christopher M c Quarrie, Editor Eddie Hamilton, and First Assistant Director Mary Boulding— Experience the film with riveting insights and analysis from these acclaimed filmmakers. Experience the film with riveting insights and analysis from these acclaimed filmmakers. Commentary by Composers Max Aruj and Alfie Godfrey, and Score Producer Cécile Tournesac—Hear from the artists who enhance the action with thrilling music. PROMO SPOTS Parachute Burn— Watch Tom Cruise earn a Guinness World Record for the most burning parachute jumps by an individual. Snorri Rig Camera— Survival is in the details. See the unique camera set up for Tom as he does his parachute jump. Jump Flip— Witness Tom's epic jump. Long Wing— See Tom hang on to the wing of the biplane mid-flight. STILL GALLERIES Tom Cruise (Biography included) (Biography included) Christopher M c Quarrie Collaboration Supporting Cast ISOLATED SCORE TRACK Before we let you go, we have officially launched our merch store! Check out all of our amazing apparel when you click here and type in GVN15 at checkout for a 15% discount! Make sure to check out our podcasts each week including Geek Vibes Live, Top 10 with Tia, Wrestling Geeks Alliance and more! For major deals and money off on Amazon, make sure to use our affiliate link!
