This week’s releases include the realization of a long lost vision; a toy uprising; every episode of an animated musical; an intense drama in high-def; …
This week’s releases include the realization of a long lost vision; a toy uprising; every episode of an animated musical; an intense drama in high-def; and a few sci-fi classics. Bobbleheads: The Movie (DVD) The story begins with a fun introduction to a family under a lot of stress as the parents prepare for an important business venture and their eldest daughter is tasked with caring for her infant sibling. The bobbleheads watch from the sidelines, hoping everything will work out for their owners and they can get back to being their happier selves. However, an impromptu family trip leaves the house empty and the toys to fend off duplicitous intruders. That’s where it all becomes a bit muddled. Overlooking the fact that these bobbleheads are conveniently without traditional bases, enabling them to move around more freely, the whole “Home Alone” schtick just falls flat. Cher is undoubtedly the highlight of the film, though her appearance is a bit unusual. There are no special features. (Universal 1440 Entertainment) Collateral (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray & Digital copy) Director Special features include: commentary by director Michael Mann; deleted scenes with commentary; making-of featurette; “Shooting on Location: Annie’s Office”; “Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx Rehearse”; and “Visual FX: MTA Train.” (Paramount Home Entertainment) The Last Starfighter (Blu-ray) While kids were still obsessed with video games in the ‘80s, they were usually standing in front of a large arcade machine trying to get their initials on the high score list. Alex is an expert Starfighter player, spending most of his spare time and spare quarters on the game. After the best game of his life, he receives an unexpected visit from a recruiter… for an intergalactic air force, scouring the galaxy for the best pilots. Alex’s initial reaction is understandable, but it all works out as expected. But one of the things that sets this film apart is it was one of the earliest pictures to extensively use CGI for its special effects. While the scenes are still somewhat rudimentary, it’s quite exciting to see the early rendition of a digital space opera.
