A Perfect Getaway DVD Review

A Perfect Getaway is a suspense thriller directed by David Twohy about a newlywed couple (Steve Zahn and Milla Jovovich) who chooses to go to Hawaii for a “relaxing” honeymoon getaway.  They get more than they bargain for when it is discovered that killers are on the loose going around murdering young married couples.  Could it be the rebellious hitchhiking couple that refused a ride on the way to the island?  What about their travel guide and his girlfriend (Timothy Olyphant and Kiele Sanchez)?  A Perfect Getaway Unrated Director’s Cut DVD is available December 29th from Universal Studios.

As the foursome travels through the Hawaiian landscape, the suspense builds as the young couple thinks that they might being led to danger by their navigators.  Subtle hints of danger are dropped throughout the story as they make their way through the island.

A Perfect Getaway is a mystery suspense movie that you know watching it has to have some diverging twist as a climax.  The story plays out in a way that almost suggests there is going to be a surprise waiting at the end.  The story centers on three couples so you know at some point, a reveal must take place.

There are some nice twists and turns in the movie, though they are presented in a way that is a bit confusing at first.  It is somewhat hard to figure out why the film takes the direction it does the last half hour.  On the plus-side, you are kept engaged in the action throughout, which is what a supenseful movie is supposed to do for you.

Steve Zahn is solid in a leading role that is a bit different than his normal zany characters in crude comedies.  Milla Jovovich (Resident Evil) is good.  Timothy Olyphant is the most appealing of the ensemble cast.  It is hard to pinpoint what it is about his acting persona that is intriguing but his mannerisms and style help him maximize his talents.  Overall, a good cast, and a nice (not great) story make  A Perfect Getaway a good thriller.  There is not much in the Unrated version that seems sensationalized.  There is moderate violence but certainly not over the top.

MPAA Rating: R/UR
Running Time: 98 minutes
DVD Release Date: December 29, 2009

Grade: B-

Director: David Twohy
Starring: Steve Zahn, Milla Jovovich, Timothy Olyphant, Kiele Sanchez

DVD Review by Neil of Movie Room Reviews

Paranormal Activity DVD Review

In one of the most anticipated horror movie DVD releases of all time, Paranormal Activity is available December 29th from Paramount Pictures Home Entertainment.  This amazing film was made for around $11,000 and the build up of enthusiasm among moviegoers led to a more than $100 million domestic box office take for the movie.

Written and directed by Oren Peli, Paranormal Activity is a chilling story about a young, middle-class couple who become increasingly disturbed by a presence that may or may not be demonic, but is certainly most active in the middle of the night, especially while they sleep. The DVD and two-disc Blu-ray include the original theatrical version of the film, plus an unrated version with a shocking alternate ending not seen in theaters.

Paranormal Activity Scare Kit Giveaway – Ends 1/9/2010

What makes Paranormal Activity intriguing to fans of the best horror movies is that it is filmed and developed in a natural, very unassuming way.  This, plus some effective viral marketing, helped convince some moviegoers that the movie was actually a real story turned into a movie. 

Katie (Katie Featherston) and Micah (Micah Sloat) are the main characters in the movie.  Katie appears to be the target of the demon that haunts them each night in various ways.  The movie plays out in a sequence of filmography in which the demon’s actions become more aggressive.  Initially, they hear sounds, then things are out of place, a powder test shows footprints, the camera shows a blanket move as though someone is getting into bed, and ultimately, physical contact is made.

Katie and Micah get progressively more scared, but while Katie insists on getting out, Micah wants to capture the important film.  Soon, though, it is Micah that tries to get them out of the house.  Will they figure out a way to pacify the demon?  What will be revealed in the final scenes in the movie, as the build up intensifies?  These are the key questions heading into the climax of Paranormal Activity.

While the cinematrophy was effectively done and the story was well developed as a low budget effort, Paranormal Activity was a bit disappointing given the hype – some big name critics have called it the “scariest movie ever”.  One of the challenges in waiting to watch the movie on DVD is that the hype surrounding the theater release and the word of mouth grows to unmatchable heights.  As the viewer, you are so geared for fear that you are somewhat desensitized to what actually plays out.

Some people have compared Paranormal Activity to The Blair Witch Project, another made-to-seem real low budget horror flick.  However, the difference is that The Blair Witch Project leaves more of the ending to the imagination, whereas Paranormal Activity does have some closure.  Your real satisfaction with the Paranormal Activity DVD experience will be based on whether you can see what is to come in the end.  With all the Paranormal Activity spoilers telling you about the Paranormal Activity ending, it is hard not to read about the ending before you watch it.  If you do not see the final scene coming, you are likely to be more affected.

There is a Paranormal Activity Alternative Ending on the DVD release that is actually worth the watch.  Unlike some films with alternate endings, there is a distinct difference between the theatrical ending and the alternate.  The original is better, but the alternate does catch you off guard.

Paranormal Activity is Rated R for language based on a decent amount of F-words and others.  There are some modest sexual references, but it is up to the parent to decide whether the thriller fear factor is too much for your kids.  This movie is certainly capable of inducing nightmares in young minds that are under equipped.

MPAA Rating: R
Running Time: 86 Minutes
DVD Release Date: December 29th, 2009

Grade: B

Director: Oren Peli
Starring: Micah Sloat, Katie Featherston

Paranormal Activity DVD Review by Neil of Movie Room Reviews

Glee Season 1: Volume 1 DVD Review

The much anticipated initial DVD release of one of TVs hottest new series is available December 29th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.  Glee Season 1: Volume 1 Road to the Sectionals celebrates the first 13 episodes of the hit fox show about a high school glee club.

Loaded with musical numbers, “Glee” is both comedy sitcom and musical entertainment as presented by the students of William McKinley High School.  At one time a championship glee club, the school now lacks the same talent and enthusiasm it once had.  Idealistic Spanish teacher, Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison of “Music & Lyrics”) wants to change that and commits to turning his group of misfit singers and dancers into champions.

“Nip/Tuck” Ryan Murphy is the man behind “Glee”, which also co-stars the brilliantly talented Jane Lynch (The 40 Year Old Virgin).  Lynch plays the antagonistic leader of the schools cheerleading team who has taken up the role of opposition the glee and its leader.  Lynch is an excellent role player who seems to have been in every new TV and comedy movie out in the last year.

Jessalyn Gilsig (“Nip/Tuck”) is another of the more experience cast members of Glee, but the show also marks the launching pooint for many actors including Lea Michele, Cory Monteith and Chris Colfer. Along with the show’s first 13 episodes, Glee Season 1: Road To Sectionals DVD also comes with the Director’s cut of the pilot episode; exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes; audition videos from the talented cast and the hit music topping the charts at iTunes such as cast versions of Queen’s “Somebody To Love,” Heart’s “Alone,” Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Céline Dion’s “Taking Chances,” Rihanna’s “Take A Bow,” Carrie Underwood’s “Last Name,” Jazmine Sullivan’s “Bust Your Windows,” Kanye West’s “Gold Digger” and REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling.”.

“Glee” was a much hyped show that initially lacked a little punch in plot.  The show has always been strong on the music side as evidenced by the recently released Glee: The Music, Volume 2 CD.  However, it took a while for the characters to become intriguing and for the storylines to take grip.  During the first 13 episodes, you get to meet the key members of the ensemble cast and learn about the important relationship roles that drive the show.  You also see the developing stand-off between Will and Sue (Lynch).  The music is great and the shows are upbeat and funny with a nice blend of drama and comedy.

Glee Season 1: Road To Sectionals will be available on DVD for the suggested retail price of $39.98 U.S/$49.98 Canada.

MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 580 Minutes
DVD Release Date: December 29, 2009

Creator: Ryan Murphy
Starring: Matthew Morrison, Jane Lynch

DVD Review by Neil of Movie Room Reviews

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