Category: News

Crisis on Earth Dan DiDio: How 5G was a crisis too far

DC’s REAL Doomsday Clock: Dan DiDio, 5G, and the End Of The Trinity

By now, you’ve probably heard that Dan DiDio is out as the co-publisher of DC Comics. Heidi covers a lot of it:

The departure of Dan DiDio as DC Co-Publisher on Friday was both long expected and shocking. His exit was rumored many many times over the years, and every contract renewal was a will he or won’t he suspense movie.

Originally at ComicsBeat.com

Rob Salkowitz over at ICV2 notes that this could be the first clear sign of some major changes in direction since DC’s parent company, Time Warner (now WarnerMedia), was acquired by AT&T last summer.

DiDio was something of a polarizing figure because of the direction of DC’s publishing strategy over the past few years. That has led to a lot of speculation about what was behind the sudden move, and whether it’s related to specific issues like DC’s impending “5G” initiative or some pent-up dissatisfaction within the company over his leadership.

Originally at ICV2

But what is/was 5G? Rather than that new wireless spectrum that’s being talked about for phones and wifi, DiDio had something else in mind:

The basic idea has been floating around since the middle of last year, and is seemingly yet another response to flagging sales. The idea was sort of to Ultimatize DC: all of the main heroes would be replaced by new younger versions, a tried and true comic book procedure which ends up giving you a great wave of cheers when the originals return AND new refreshing characters with youthful appeal.

Originally at ComicsBeat.com

Rob goes into detail about some of the financial issues behind this, focusing on AT&T’s purchase of WarnerMedia for $85 billion, doubling their debt to $170-odd billion, making them the most indebted publicly-traded company in the world by a factor of at least two, and about $70 billion in BBB-rated debt is coming due in the next 4-5 years, which must be repaid on schedule to maintain investment-grade status for its bonds.

But Rob missed the giant concrete block suspended over the wizard’s head…and the thread breaks in 13 years.

Because in 2033, unless there’s a big change in legislation… Superman enters the public domain.

Followed by Batman, Sandman, and the original Captain Marvel in 2034; Robin, the Flash, Green Lantern, Dr. Fate, Hourman, the Spectre, and Johnny Thunder in 2035; and Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, and Aquaman in 2036.

What percentage of the overall value of DC Comics is made up of those characters? 50%? 75%? 90%??? Whatever it is, it’s a lot. And it’s going to start going away very soon.

Now, DC won’t lose all of that value immediately. But there’s not going to be a lot preventing anyone from reprinting those stories, or making new stories from them. Or new movies and TV shows. Heck, there won’t be anything preventing Marvel from publishing Superman stories.

My take on 5G is that Dan was trying to get out from under by creating new characters that could still be held under copyright, holding on to value for the company going forward. And now that Dan’s gone… what are they going to do?

Tick-tock… tick-tock…

Visually Stunning 1917 Arrives on Disc March 24

Universal City, California, February 20, 2020 – 1917, the critically acclaimed, multi-award winning action spectacle including Academy Award® winner for Best Cinematography arrives on Digital March 10, 2020 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-rayTM and DVD March 24, 2020 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.  Hailed as “One of the most extraordinary cinematic achievements of the year” (JoBlo), the universally acclaimed film combines groundbreaking film making, memorable performances, and an unforgettable insight into the human experience against the shattering background of war. Additionally an Oscar® winner for Best Visual Effects and Best Sound Mixing, 1917 is “a new war movie classic” (NY Post).

In 1917 at the height of the First World War, two young British soldiers, Schofield (MacKayand Blake (Chapman) are given a seemingly impossible mission. In a race against time, they must cross enemy territory and deliver a message that will stop a deadly attack on hundreds of soldiers—Blake’s own brother among them. 1917 comes to Digital, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-rayTM and DVD with bonus content showcasing the incredible craft and artistry behind the immersive feature, including a detailed look into the production design, how the film engineered a one shot, 360-degree format and interviews with the cast and crew.

In 1917, Academy Award®-winning director Sam Mendes (American Beauty, Spectre, Skyfall) brings his Golden Globe® and BAFTA award-winning directorial performance to a script co-written alongside Krysty Wilson-Cairns (“Penny Dreadful”). The film stars breakout actors George Mackay (Captain Fantastic, Pride, Sunshine on Leith) and Dean-Charles Chapman (HBO’s “Game of Thrones”). Accompanying Mackay and Chapman are standout performances by Mark Strong (Tinker Tailor, Kingsman, The Imitation Game), Andrew Scott (“Fleabag”, Sherlock, Spectre), Richard Madden (Netflix’s “The Bodyguard”, Rocketman, HBO’s “Game of Thrones”), Colin Firth (The King’s Speech, Kingsman, Bridget Jones) and Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock, Dr. Strange, The Imitation Game). The film was produced by Mendes, Pippa Harris (“Penny Dreadful”, “Call the Midwife”), Jayne-Ann Tenggren (SpectreExtremely Loud & Incredibly Close), Callum McDougall (Spectre, Skyfall, Casino Royale) and Brian Oliver (Rocketman, Black Swan).

BONUS FEATURES ON 4K ULTRA HD, BLU-RAYTM, DVD & DIGITAL:

  • The Weight of the World: Sam Mendes – Academy Award® winner Sam Mendes discusses his personal connection to World War 1.
  • Allied Forces: Making 1917 – Learn how the one shot, 360-degree format was executed and the pivotal role Academy Award® winner Roger Deakins served in bringing Sam Mendes’ vision to life.
  • The Music of 1917 – Composer Thomas Newman and filmmakers discuss the important role of the Academy Award®-nominated score.
  • In The Trenches – Go behind the scenes with the cast of 1917.
  • Recreating History – Filmmakers offer a detailed look at the production design challenges of recreating the First World War.
  • Feature Commentary with Director/Co-Writer Sam Mendes.
  • Feature Commentary with Director of Photography Roger Deakins.
1917 will be available on 4K Ultra HD combo pack, which includes 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, & Digital Code.

  • 4K Ultra HD is the ultimate movie watching experience. 4K Ultra HD features the combination of 4K resolution for four times sharper picture than HD, the color brilliance of High Dynamic Range (HDR) with immersive audio delivering a multidimensional sound experience.
    • 1917 4K Ultra HD is available with HDR10+™, providing a premium HDR picture quality. HDR10+ transforms your movie watching experience with incredible brightness and contrast for each scene, delivering brighter brights and deepest darks.
  • Blu-ray unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound.
  • Digital lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.
  • The Movies Anywhere Digital App simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-rayTM and DVD disc packages from participating studios and stream or download them through Movies Anywhere.  Movies Anywhere is available only in the United States.
For artwork, please log onto our website at www.uphepublicity.com

Website: https://uni.pictures/1917
Trailer: http://uni.pictures/1917Trailer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1917Film
Twitter: https://twitter.com/1917
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1917
#1917Movie

FILMMAKERS:
Directed By: Sam Mendes
Cast: George MacKay, Dean- Charles Chapman, Mark Strong, Andrew Scott, Richard Madden, with Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch
Music By: Thomas Newman
Costume Designer: Jacqueline Durran, David Crossman
Editor: Lee Smith, ACE
Production Designer: Dennis Gassner
Director of Photography: Roger Deakins, ASC ESC
Produced By: Sam Mendes, Pippa Harris, Jayne-Ann Tenggren, Callum McDougall, Brian Oliver
Written By: Sam Mendes, Krysty Wilson-Cairns

TECHNICAL INFORMATION 4K:

Street Date: March 24, 2020
Selection Number: 61209848 (US) / 61210170 (CDN)
Layers:  BD-100
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 16:9 2.39:1
Rating: R for violence, some disturbing images, and language.
Subtitles: English, French Canadian, Latin American Spanish
Video: 2160p UHD Dolby Vision/HDR10+/HDR 10
Languages/Sound: English (Dolby Atmos), French Canadian (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1), Latin American Spanish (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1)
Run Time: 1:59:00
TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAYTM:

Street Date: March 24, 2020
Selection Number: 61209847 (US) / 61210172 (CDN)
Layers:  BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 16:9 2.39:1
Rating: R for violence, some disturbing images, and language.
Subtitles: English, French Canadian, Latin American Spanish
Languages/Sound: English (Dolby Atmos), French Canadian (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1), Latin American Spanish (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1)
Run Time: 1:59:00

TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD:
Street Date: March 24, 2020
Selection Number: 61209846 (US) / 61210171 (CDN)
Layers: DVD 9
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 16:9 2.39:1
Rating: R for violence, some disturbing images, and language.
Subtitles: English, French Canadian, Latin American Spanish
Languages/Sound: English (Dolby Digital 5.1), French Canadian (Dolby Digital 5.1), Latin American Spanish (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Run Time: 1:59:00

Watchmen Limited Series Set for June Home Video Release

BURBANK, CA (February 13, 2020) – Fans can dive even further into the alternate world that has captivated audiences since its debut when Warner Bros. Home Entertainment releases Watchmen: An HBO Limited Series on Blu-ray ($44.98 SRP US/ $49.99 SRP Canada) and DVD ($39.99 US SRP US / $44.98 SRP Canada) June 2, 2020. Featuring all nine riveting one-hour episodes – plus over 90 minutes of bonus content, including two never-before-seen special features exclusive to the Blu-ray and DVD. Created for television and executive produced by Damon Lindelof (Lost, The Leftovers), Watchmen drew 1.5 million Viewers in its series premiere, becoming the second-highest rated HBO original series debut of the past three years, only behind Big Little Lies. The show is also currently “certified fresh” with a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Set in an alternate history where “superheroes” are treated as outlaws, Watchmen embraces the nostalgia of the original groundbreaking graphic novel of the same name, while attempting to break new ground of its own. Watchmen reunites Lindelof with Academy® and Emmy® Award-winning actress Regina King (The Leftovers, Southland, If Beale Street Could Talk) leading the cast as Angela Abar/Sister Night. The series also stars Emmy® Award winner Jean Smart (Legion, Dirty John), Don Johnson (Miami Vice), Tim Blake Nelson (O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Leaves of Grass), Hong Chau (Homecoming), Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (Aquaman), Andrew Howard (Bates Motel), Jacob Ming-Trent (Ray Donovan), Tom Mison (Sleepy Hollow), Sara Vickers (The Crown) and Dylan Schombing (Sharp Objects), with Academy Award® winner Louis Gossett Jr. (An Officer and a Gentleman), and Academy, Emmy® and Tony® Award winning actor Jeremy Irons (The Lion King, Reversal of Fortune).

Produced for HBO by White Rabbit in association with Warner Bros. Television, the series was created for television by Lindelof based on characters co-created for DC by Dave Gibbons.  The series is executive produced by Lindelof, Tom Spezialy, Nicole Kassell, Stephen Williams and Joseph E. Iberti.

“The critical accolades for Watchmen have not slowed down since the series premiere,” said Rosemary Markson, Senior Vice President Marketing, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. “We are thrilled to release Watchmen: An HBO Limited Series on DVD and Blu-ray with even more exclusive new content for fans to enjoy.”

9 ONE-HOUR EPISODES

  1. It’s Summer and We’re Running Out of Ice
  2. Martial Feats of Comanche Horsemanship
  3. She Was Killed By Space Junk
  4. If You Don’t Like My Story, Write Your Own
  5. Little Fear of Lightning
  6. This Extraordinary Being
  7. An Almost Religious Awe
  8. A God Walks Into Abar
  9. See How They Fly

EXCLUSIVE BLU-RAY/DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Hooded Justice
  • The Colossal King – Adrian Veidt

ADDITIONAL SPECIAL FEATURES

Jumanji: The Next Level Finds its way Home in March

4427623_jumanji_nl_2019_4kuhd_outersleeve_frontleft-1-300x358-2687534CULVER CITY, CALIF. (February 11, 2020) – Return to the mysterious and sprawling world of Jumanji with Dwayne Johnson (Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw), Jack Black (Goosebumps), Kevin Hart (Ride Along) and Karen Gillan (Avengers: Endgame) when JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL comes to Digital March 3 and 4K Ultra HDTM, Blu-ray and DVD March 17 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

Helmed once again by Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle director Jake Kasdan, JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL, crossing over $700 million at the global box office, brings the fan-favorites back into the game, along with Jumanji newcomers Awkwafina (The Farewell), Rory McCann (TV’s “Game of Thrones”) with Danny Glover (Sorry to Bother You) and Danny DeVito (Dumbo).

JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL catches up with Spencer (Alex Wolff), Fridge (Ser’Darius Blain), Martha (Morgan Turner) and Bethany (Madison Iseman) three years after their first adventure in Jumanji’s mystical video game world. When Spencer goes missing inside the game ahead of the group’s planned reunion from college, his friends, along with his grandfather (Danny DeVito) and his grandfather’s friend (Danny Glover), once again inhabit the avatars of Dr. Bravestone (Dwayne Johnson), “Mouse” Finbar (Kevin Hart), Professor Sheldon Oberon (Jack Black) and Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillan) to rescue him. As they return to Jumanji, they discover that nothing is as they expect. With more action and surprises, the players will have to brave parts unknown and unexplored, from the arid deserts to the snowy mountains, in order to escape.

The bonus materials for JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL include a gag reel, several behind-the-scenes featurettes, in-depth scene breakdowns, a brand new jingle and more! The 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD also include a fully interactive collectible map that employs Augmented Reality to bring Jumanji to life via smartphone. The experience provides up to ten minutes of gameplay and allows users to create their own 8-bit Avatar, navigate a series of mini-games and much more!

JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL has a runtime of approximately 123 minutes and is rated PG-13 for adventure action, suggestive content and some language. The IMAX® Enhanced 4K Ultra HDTM edition features digitally remastered content presented with High Dynamic Range and DTS:X® audio for a more immersive at-home entertainment experience.

BLU-RAY AND DIGITAL BONUS MATERIALS:

  • Gag Reel
  • “Rhys Darby Wants To Jingle”: How do you top Jack Black and Nick Jonas’s unforgettable theme song for the first one?  Everyone’s favorite Non-Player Character, Rhys Darby is ready to take it to the next, next level.
  • “Body Swapping: Snapping Into Character”: “In the latest Jumanji adventure, the avatar roles are turned on their heads with new characters and hilarious performances.”
  • “Back Together: Reuniting the Cast”: Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan and Jack Black are back and better than ever as they share their excitement to reunite.
  • “Level Up: Making Jumanji: The Next Level”: From breathtaking scenery, wild adventure, new characters and more- go behind the scenes with the cast and crew as they take Jumanji to the Next Level.
  • “Scene Breakdown: Ostrich Chase”: Jump in your dune buggy and go inside the epic ostrich chase scene as the filmmakers and visual effects team breakdown the creation of this memorable scene.
  • “Scene Breakdown: Mandrill Bridges”: Moving rope bridges, giant mandrills and incredible stunt work make the mandrills attack one of the most adrenaline pack parts of this film.  In this scene breakdown, see how they pulled it off.
  •  “Awkwafina Cat Burglar”: To prepare for her roles as a pickpocket, Ming Fleetwood, superstar Awkwafina got a little too method behind the scenes.
  • “NPC Confessions: Jurgen The Brutal”: Being the bad guy isn’t all glory.  Jurgen The Brutal gets real in this candid confessional.
  • “Grow Up:” Danny DeVito and Danny Glover help Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart get in touch with their inner grumpy old men.
  • “Telenovela”: Kevin Hart gets lost in translation in this melodramatic promo.
  • “VFX Pre-Vis: Zeppelin Battle”: Compare the detail of the visual effects pre-visualization reel and the final picture breakdown of the thrilling Zeppelin battle.
  • “VFX Pre-Vis: Ostrich Chase”: Track the progression from pre-visualization to finished scene in a side by side comparison of the ostrich chase.
  • AR GAME: The 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD include a collectible map that is fully interactive, employing Augmented Reality to bring Jumanji to life through a smartphone, allowing users to create their own 8-bit Avatar, navigate a series of mini-games and much more!

DVD BONUS MATERIALS:

  • “Body Swapping: Snapping Into Character”
  • “Back Together: Reuniting the Cast”
  • “Level Up: Making Jumanji: The Next Level”

Little Women Make a Home on Disc in April

CULVER CITY, CALIF. (February 11, 2019) – Nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Greta Gerwig’s fresh, unique and modern adaptation of the timeless Louisa May Alcott masterpiece LITTLE WOMEN comes home on Digital March 10 and Blu-ray™ and DVD April 7 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.
The Blu-ray, DVD and digital releases will take viewers even deeper into the beloved story of Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth with over 45 minutes of fascinating bonus features. See how Writer/Director Greta Gerwig led this modern adaptation of a literary classic with a magnificent new cast, incredible art direction, elaborate costumes, set pieces and how she took inspiration from the real-life Orchard House where Louisa May Alcott lived and wrote LITTLE WOMEN.

Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a LITTLE WOMEN that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March, reflects back and forth on her fictional life. Gerwig’s take on the beloved story of the March sisters—four young women each determined to live life on their own terms—is both timeless and timely. Portraying Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth March, the film stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh and Eliza Scanlen, with Timothée Chalamet as their neighbor Laurie, Laura Dern as Marmee and Meryl Streep as Aunt March.

In addition to earning the praise of critics worldwide with a Rotten Tomatoes “Certified Fresh” rating of 95%, the film has been honored with an Academy Award for Best Costume Design plus five nominations including Best Picture, Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay), and Best Music (Original Score). Saoirse Ronan’s transcendent performance earned her a nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role, while Florence Pugh’s nuanced and insightful take on the character of Amy earned her a nod for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. LITTLE WOMEN is only the third Best Picture nominee in history to have been written, directed and produced entirely by female filmmakers.

LITTLE WOMEN has a runtime of approximately 135 minutes and is rated PG for some thematic elements and brief smoking.

BLU-RAY, DVD AND DIGITAL BONUS MATERIALS

  • A New Generation of Little Women: The superb cast recreated the beloved world of the March family with realism, humor and vulnerability
  • Making a Modern Classic: The film combines its modern elements—kinetic camerawork and overlapping dialogue—with the historically authentic bespoke costumes, sets and locations
  • Greta Gerwig: Women Making Art: Go behind the camera with Writer/Director Greta Gerwig, discover her process and how she applied her own style to the story
  • Hair & Make-Up Test Sequence: A lovely showcase featuring the outstanding costumes, hair and make-up crafted for the film
  • Little Women Behind the Scenes: Take a quick look behind the scenes on the set of LITTLE WOMEN
  • Orchard House, Home of Louisa May Alcott: Find out more about Louisa May Alcott and visit the real-life Orchard House in Concord, MA

CAST AND CREW
Director: Greta Gerwig
Written By: Greta Gerwig (based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott)
Producers: Amy Pascal, Denise Di Novi, Robin Swicord
Executive Producers: Adam Merims, Evelyn O’Neill, Rachel O’Connor, Arnon Milchan
Cast: Saoirse Ronan (Ladybird), Emma Watson (Beauty and the Beast), Florence Pugh (Midsommar), Eliza Scanlen (TV’s “Sharp Objects”), Laura Dern (TV’s “Big Little Lies”), Timothée Chalamet (Call Me by Your Name) with Chris Cooper (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood) and Meryl Streep (The Post)

SPECS
Blu-ray: Feature: 1080p High Definition 1.85:1 | Audio: 5.1 DTS-HD MA
DVD: Feature: 1.85:1 Anamorphic Widescreen | Audio: English 5.1 Dolby Digital

All-New Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge Video hits in April

BURBANK, CA (January 30, 2020) – One of the most popular videogame franchises in history comes to animated life in Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge, an all-new, feature-length film produced by Warner Bros. Animation in coordination with NeatherRealm Studios and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. The film arrives from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment on Digital starting April 12, 2020, and on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD on April 28, 2020.

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge will be available on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (USA $39.99 SRP; Canada $44.98 SRP), Blu-ray Combo Pack (USA $24.98 SRP; Canada $29.98 SRP), and DVD (USA $19.98 SRP: Canada $24.98 SRP) as well as on Digital. The 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack features an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc in 4K with HDR, a Blu-ray disc featuring the film in hi-definition, and a digital version of the movie. The Blu-ray Combo Pack features a Blu-ray disc with the film in hi-definition, a DVD with the film in standard definition, and a digital version of the movie.

Based on the worldwide hit game created by Ed Boon & John Tobias, Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge spotlights the once-in-a-generation tournament between the champions of Outworld and Earthrealm – a competition that will ultimately determine the fate of Earth and all its citizens. Lord Raiden, protector of Earthrealm, must gather the greatest fighters of his realm to defend it from the evil Shang Tsung in the battle to end all battles – Mortal Kombat!

Joel McHale (Community, The CW’s upcoming Stargirl) and Jennifer Carpenter (Dexter, Batman: Gotham by Gaslight) lead a stellar cast as the voices of Hollywood star-turned-fighter Johnny Cage and all-business warrior Sonya Blade, respectively. The voice cast also includes Jordan Rodrigues (Lady Bird, The Fosters) as Liu Kang, Patrick Seitz (Mortal Kombat X, Agrretsuko, Naruto: Shippuden) as Scorpion & Hanzo Hasashi, Steve Blum (Cowboy Bebop, Star Wars Rebels) as Sub-Zero, Artt Butler (Her, Star Wars: The Clone Wars) as Shang Tsung, Darin De Paul (Overwatch, Fortnite) as Quan Chi, Robin Atkin Downes (The Strain, Batman: The Killing Joke) as Kano, David B. Mitchell (Mortal Kombat 11, World of Warcraft franchise) as Raiden, Ike Amadi (Mass Effect 3, Mortal Kombat 11) as Jax Briggs, Kevin Michael Richardson (Family Guy, The Simpsons) as Goro, Grey Griffin (The Loud House, Young Justice, Scooby-Doo franchise) as Kitana & Satoshi Hasashi, and Fred Tatasciore (Robot Chicken, Family Guy) as Demon Torturer.

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge is directed by Ethan Spaulding (Batman: Assault on Arkham, Justice League: Throne of Atlantis) from a script by Jeremy Adams (Supernatural, Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans) based on the videogame created by Ed Boon and John Tobias. Rick Morales (Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders, Batman vs. Two-Face) is Producer, and Jim Krieg (Batman: Gotham by Gaslight) is co-producer. Executive Producer is Sam Register. Ed Boon (NetherRealm Studios) is Creative Consultant.

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge is a riveting, no-holds-barred action-fest that delivers all the authentic combat, drama and humor fans expect coupled with edgy animation and an outstanding voice cast,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Senior Vice President, Originals, Animation, and Family Marketing. “This film is unlike anything Warner Bros. has produced before, and fans should be prepared for the thrill ride of their lives.”

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge Special Features

4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and Digital

  • From Epic Game to Extreme Animation – Mortal Kombat co-creator Ed Boon and the filmmakers reveal the creative process behind adapting the best-selling game to an all-new animated film.
  • The Weapons, Wardrobe, and World of Mortal Kombat Legends – The artists reveal the design challenges of animating the world of Mortal Kombat, from authentic armor to wildly imaginative weapons and fantasy settings.
  • The Savage Sound Design of Mortal Kombat Legends – This hard-hitting audio exploration reveals the art of designing the sonic language of the fight scenes.
  • Mortal Kombatants – Dive deep inside the cast of characters to reveal their unique abilities, signature moves and backstories.
  • Filmmaker Commentary – Producer Rick Morales and screenwriter Jeremy Adams sit down for an insightful audio commentary that reveals the process of creating a compelling animated film based on one of today’s most popular fighting games.

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge will also be available on Movies Anywhere. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can access all their eligible movies by connecting their Movies Anywhere account with their participating digital retailer accounts.

BASICS

4K Blu-ray Languages: English, Spanish, French

4K Blu-ray Subtitles: English, Spanish, French

Blu-ray Languages: English, Spanish, French, German

Blu-ray Subtitles: English, Spanish, French

DVD Languages: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese

DVD Subtitles: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese

Running Time: 80 minutes

Parasite, nominated for 6 Oscars, Comes to Disc Jan. 28

Win a Copy of Parasite Blu-ray & HD Digital Bundle

191329123386_bluray_ws_3doring_clr-1-300x437-4483191The South Korean film Parasite seemingly came out of nowhere and has become a surprise hit, garnering six Academy Award nominations after winning the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Film. Better, it began a dialogue about classes and stereotypes that continues until today.

The film has been out digitally and hits physical discs tomorrow. Our friends at Universal Home Entertainment have made a copy of the Blu-ray and Digital HD bundle available for giveaway.

In order to win, please tell us about a time when you felt your life suddenly being taken over by forces beyond your comprehension.

Your entry has to be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m., Friday, January 31. The decision of the ComicMix judges will be final. The contest is open only to North American readers.

Proclaimed as “wickedly clever” (GQ) and “the definition of a must-see experience” (The Atlantic), PARASITE is a riveting, genre-bending thriller that combines masterful filmmaking with a fresh look at class discrimination, making it “a flat-out masterpiece” (Deadline). Hailed as “the best work yet from master filmmaker Bong Joon Ho (Okja, Snowpiercer)” (AwardsCircuit), who directed and co-wrote the film alongside Han Jin Won (Okja), fans can now delve deep into the mind of Bong, and the symbolism behind PARASITE with an exclusive Q&A bonus feature with the acclaimed director. The captivating PARASITE has made history as the first Korean film to be nominated for an Oscar®. It has garnered six Oscar® nominations including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best International Film, Best Production Design, and Best Editing, a 2020 SAG Award®nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture and was the winner of the 2020 Golden Globe®for Best Foreign Film. Additionally, the film has racked up over an astonishing 100award nominations to date.

BLU-RAYTM, DVD & DIGITAL BONUS FEATURES:

Q&A with Director Bong Joon HoPARASITEwill be available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital. Blu-ray unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound.

Digital lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.

MOVIES ANYWHERE is the digital app that simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-ray and DVD disc packages from participating studios and stream or download them through Movies Anywhere. MOVIES ANYWHERE is only available in the United States.

Surprise Hit Knives Out Comes to Disc in Febraury

SANTA MONICA, CA (January 22, 2020) – Rian Johnson’s Academy Award®-nominated (Best Original Screenplay) and Golden Globe®-nominated (Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy [Ana de Armas], Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy [Daniel Craig]) whodunnit with an all-star ensemble cast exposes its secrets when Knives Out arrives on Digital February 7 and on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand February 25 from Lionsgate and MRC Film.

Written, produced, and directed by filmmaker Rian Johnson (Star Wars: The Last JediLooper), and produced by Ram Bergman (Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Looper) and Johnson through T-Street, the film is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes™ at 97% (as of 1/21/20) and has received awards from AFI, National Board of Review, New York Film Critics, Philadelphia Film Festival, The Hollywood Critics Association, Rotten Tomatoes’ Golden Tomatoes Awards, and more. Knives Out stars Daniel Craig (James Bond franchise, Logan LuckyThe Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), Chris Evans (The Avengers franchise, Captain AmericaGifted), Ana de Armas (Blade Runner 2049War DogsKnock Knock), Golden Globe® winner Jamie Lee Curtis (1990, Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy, “Anything But Love”), Oscar® nominee Michael Shannon (2008, Actor in a Supporting Role, Revolutionary Road), Golden Globe® winner and Emmy® nominee Don Johnson (1986, Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Drama, Miami Vice; 1985, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, Miami Vice), Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe® winner Toni Collette (1999, Actress in a Supporting Role, The Sixth Sense; 2010, Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy, United States of Tara), LaKeith Stanfield (Sorry to Bother You, Get Out, Atlanta), Golden Globe® nominee Katherine Langford (2018, Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Drama, 13 Reasons Why), Jaeden Martell (ItIt: Chapter 2St. VincentThe Book of Henry), and Oscar®, Tony Award®, and Emmy® winner Christopher Plummer (2011, Actor in a Supporting Role, Beginners; 1974, Actor (Musical), Cyrano; 1997, Actor (Play), Barrymore; 1977, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series, The Moneychangers NBC World Premiere The Big Event; 1994, Outstanding Voice-Over Performance, Madeline). Adored by audiences and critics alike, Knives Out is full of mystery, suspense, humor, and incredible performances from a star-studded ensemble cast.

The circumstances surrounding the death of crime novelist Harlan Thrombey are mysterious, but there’s one thing that renowned Detective Benoit Blanc knows for sure—everyone in the wildly dysfunctional Thrombey family is a suspect. Now, Blanc must sift through a web of lies and red herrings to uncover the truth. From acclaimed writer-director Rian Johnson comes this suspenseful, twist-filled whodunnit with an all-star ensemble cast including Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Toni Collette, LaKeith Stanfield, Katherine Langford, Jaeden Martell, Christopher Plummer, and more.

Take home Knives Out and immerse yourself in the mystery with special features including audio commentary and in-theatre commentary by filmmaker Rian Johnson, two never-before-seen deleted scenes, the eight-part “Making a Murder” documentary, the “Rian Johnson: Planning the Perfect Murder” featurette, a Q&A with the director and cast, and so much more. Experience four times the resolution of full HD with the 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack, which includes Dolby Vision, bringing entertainment to life through ultra-vivid picture quality. When compared to a standard picture, Dolby Vision can deliver spectacular colors never before seen on a screen, highlights that are up to 40 times brighter, and blacks that are 10 times darker. Additionally, the 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack features Dolby Atmos, which will transport viewers from an ordinary moment into an extraordinary experience with moving audio that flows all around them. Fans will feel like they’re inside the action as the sounds of people, places, things, and music come alive with breathtaking realism and move throughout the space.

The Knives Out 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99, and $29.95, respectively.

4K UHD / BLU-RAY / DVD / DIGITAL SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Audio Commentary by Writer-Director Rian Johnson, Director of Photography Steve Yedlin, and Actor Noah Segan
  • In-Theatre Commentary by Rian Johnson
  • Deleted Scene: “Bicycling Accident” (with Optional Audio Commentary by Rian Johnson)
  • Deleted Scene: “Don’t Do Anything Rash” (with Optional Audio Commentary by Rian Johnson)
  • “Making a Murder” Eight-Part Documentary
  • “Rian Johnson: Planning the Perfect Murder” Featurette
  • Writer-Director and Cast Q&A
  • Marketing Gallery
  • “Meet the Thrombeys” Viral Ads

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Moves in Feb. 4

CULVER CITY, CALIF. (January 22, 2019) – Put on your comfiest cardigan and spend some quality time with Academy Award®-winner Tom Hanks when he takes on the role of a lifetime as childhood icon and broadcast legend Fred Rogers in A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, coming to digital February 4 and 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD February 18 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

The 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and digital releases are loaded with bonus features sure to please both longtime fans of Mister Rogers and newcomers to the Land of Make-Believe, including over 15 minutes of additional scenes, an adorable blooper reel, an all-new featurette starring Daniel Tiger, filmmaker commentary and a behind-the-scenes look at the work that went into bringing this heartwarming and inspiring story to life.

Tom Hanks portrays Mister Rogers in A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, a timely story of kindness triumphing over cynicism, based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Tom Junod. After a jaded magazine writer (Primetime Emmy® Award-winner Matthew Rhys) is assigned a profile of Fred Rogers, he overcomes his skepticism, learning about kindness, love, and forgiveness from America’s most beloved neighbor.

“Hanks is amazing” in the role that has earned him an Oscar® nomination for Actor in a Supporting Role—his sixth career Academy Award Nomination. He stars alongside Rhys, Screen Actors Guild Award®-winner Susan Kelechi Watson and Oscar®-winner Chris Cooper under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Marielle Heller (Can You Ever Forgive Me?The Diary of a Teenage Girl).

The film has achieved nearly universal praise, earning the designation of “Certified Fresh” from RottenTomatoes.com and receiving raves from critics, including Rolling Stone’s Pete Travers, who calls A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD “irresistible,” Pete Hammond of Deadline who says it’s “the movie we need right now” and FOX-TV’s Jake Hamilton who calls it “the most heartfelt and uplifting film of the year.”

A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD has a runtime of approximately 109 minutes and is rated PG for some strong thematic material, a brief fight and some mild language.

4K ULTRA HD, BLU-RAY, DVD AND DIGITAL BONUS MATERIALS

  • Over 15 Minutes of Additional Scenes
  • Blooper Reel
  • Tom Hanks as Fred Rogers
  • The People Who Make a Neighborhood: The Making Of
  • Dreaming Big, Building Small: The Puppets & Miniatures
  • Daniel Tiger Explains: Practice Makes Perfect
  • Filmmaker Commentary

CAST AND CREW
Director: Marielle Heller
Written By: Micah Fitzerman-Blue & Noah Harpster
Producers: Youree Henley, Peter Saraf, Marc Turtletaub, Leah Holzer
Executive Producers: Bergen Swanson, Noah Harpster, Micah Fitzerman-Blue, Edward Cheng, Howard Chen
Cast: Tom Hanks (Cast Away), Matthew Rhys (The Americans), Susan Kelechi Watson (This is Us) and Chris Cooper (Little Women)

SPECS
4K Ultra HD: Feature: 2160p Ultra High Definition 1.85:1 | Audio: 12.1 DST:X MA
The IMAX® Enhanced 4K Ultra HD™ edition features digitally remastered content presented with High Dynamic Range and DTS:X® audio for a more immersive at-home entertainment experience.
Blu-ray: Feature: 1080p High Definition 1.85:1 | Audio: 5.1 DTS-HD MA
DVD: Feature: 1.85:1 Anamorphic Widescreen | Audio: 5.1 Dolby Digital

Latest Dragonheart film, Vengeance, Arrives in Feb.

SYNOPSIS: Lukas (Jack Kane), a young farmer whose family is killed by savage raiders in the countryside, sets out on an epic quest for revenge, forming an unlikely trio with a majestic dragon and a swashbuckling, sword-fighting mercenary, Darius (Joseph Millson). Helena Bonham Carter voices Siveth, the ice breathing dragon who was once banished from the kingdom for failing to save the king’s life. Compelled by the young man’s cause, she emerges from hiding, using her fantastical powers on the trio’s adventurous journey which brings revelations and rewards beyond vengeance. Dragonheart: Vengeance is an exciting action-adventure filled with fantasy and humor that will thrill the entire family.

Complete your Dragonheart library when the all-new five-Movie Collection is available on DVD on February 4, 2019. Now fans can experience the legendary fantasy franchise with all five movies in one complete must-own set including, DragonheartDragonheart: A New Beginning, Dragonheart 3: The Sorcerer’s Curse, Dragonheart: Battle for The Heartfire and Dragonheart: Vengeance.

BONUS FEATURES on BLU-RAY™, DVD AND DIGITAL

  • A New Legend – Take an intimate look at what sets this film apart from previous installments of the iconic Dragonheart franchise, and how filmmakers and cast came together to make this fantasy epic.
  • Creating Siveth – Siveth is a dragon unlike any we’ve seen before. In this piece, we get a peak behind the curtain into Helena Bonham Carter’s process for breathing life into this unique character.

Universal 1440 Entertainment’s Dragonheart: Vengeance will be available on Blu-rayTM, DVD, Digital and On Demand.

  • Blu-ray TM delivers a pristine HD picture and theater-quality surround sound.
  • DVD offers the flexibility and convenience of playing movies in more places, both at home and away.
  • Digital lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.
  • Movies Anywhere is the digital app that simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-rayTM and DVD disc packages from participating studios and stream or download them through Movies Anywhere.

FILMMAKERS:
Cast: Joseph Millson, Jack Kane, Arturo Muselli, Carolina Carlsson, Tam Williams, Richard Ashton, Ross O’Hennessy, Fabienne Piolini-Castle and Helena Bonham Carter as Siveth
Casting By: Gillian Hawser, CDG, CSA
Music By: Mark Mckenzie
Costume Designer: Oana Păunescu
Edited By: Chuck Norris
Production Designer: Dan Toader
Director of Photography: Matthew Weston, FNF
Based on Characters Created By: Patrick Read Johnson and Charles Edward Pogue
Line Producer: Hester Hargett-Aupetit
Produced By: Raffaella De Laurentiis
Written By: Matthew Feitshans
Directed By: Ivan Silvestrini

TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY™️:
Street Date: February 4, 2020
Selection Number: 63206353 (US) / 63206354 (CDN)
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 1.78:1 Widescreen
Rating: PG- 13 for sequences of violence and action, and some bloody images
Languages/Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, English Dolby Digital 2.0, French European DTS- Digital Surround 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, French Canadian, French European Subtitles
Run Time: 1 hour 36 Minutes

TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD:
Street Date: February 4, 2020
Selection Number: 63210093 (US) / 63210009 (CDN)
Layers: DVD 9
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 16:9 1.78:1
Rating: PG- 13 for sequences of violence and action, and some bloody images
Languages/Sound: English Dolby Digital 5.1
Subtitles: English SDH, French Canadian, French European Subtitles
Run Time: 1 hour 36 Minutes