The Pajama Game (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Doris Mary Anne Kappelhoff better know by her screen name Doris Day was an amazing singer and actress. But she was an even better human being. She starred in many great films over her career. On such film was The Pajama Game.

The film is being released on Blu-ray from Warner Archive Collection. It is so good to see this musical get the HD release it so richly deserves. Let's take a look at what is included in the Blu-ray release.

The film follows Sid Sorokin (John Raitt) who has been hired as the superintendent of the Sleeptide Pajama Factory in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He is hired to oppose the worker's demand for a pay raise. Little did he know he would fall in love with Katherine "Babe" William (Doris Day), a worker in the factory and member of the employee union's leadership.

This 1957 film is based on the 1954 stage musical that was based on the 1953 novel 7½ Cents by Richard Pike Bissell. What an amazing musical this one truly is. Doris Day shines in everything she does and this film is no different. You really find yourself rooting for her. The story is great and the music is such a great accent to the story. It is just a great film.

The film is presented in it's original widescreen format in 1.85:1 aspect ratio in a 1080p and in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. The picture is sharp and the colors are brilliant and the audio even though it is mono is crisp with no distortion. This is a tremendous upgrade from the DVD release. But Warner Archive Collection didn't stop their. They added some really cool special features. Take a look!  

Special Features:

* Deleted Song: Doris Day sings “The Man Who Invented Love” written by Richard Adler.

* Theatrical Trailer

* Song Selection: This is a menu select that allows you to jump to any of the film’s songs.

I have to say that the special feature of seeing a deleted song that was shot but never used as a bonus, wow that is very cool. It could have been lost for all time, but recently uncovered and now part of this release. Unbelievable! I really wished they would have used it in the film, but it is awesome to have it on this disc.

I have to say I am extremely impressed with this Blu-ray release. Our family has always been a fan of Doris Day and to have this Doris Day musical on Blu-ray is a dream come true. I can not thank Warner Archive enough for the time and love they put into this release.

If you love musicals or Doris Day this tremendous Blu-ray release is a must add to your collection. Head over to Amazon.com and order your copy today.

Out of 4 Film reels (4 being the best) Warner Archive's Blu-ray of The Pajama Game receives...

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Rough Night In Jericho (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Dean Martin is probably known for his ultra cool persona. He hosted his own variety show as well as the awesome celebrity roasts. But he was also an active actor in dramas, comedies, adventure films and yes even westerns.

In 1967 Dean Martin starred in the western Rough Night in Jericho. Kino Lorber Studio Classics, knowing that film fans love a little bit of everything have now released this western on Blu-ray 

The film follows corrupt former sheriff Alex Flood (Dean Martin) who controls everything in the wild west town of Jericho. Well everything except the stagecoach owned by tough-as-nails widow Molly Lang (Jean Simmons) and her right-hand man, Hickman (John McIntire). Former marshal Dolan (George Peppard), is hired by Lang to be her driver. But he wants to stay out of the war. Than he sees Flood's henchman Yarbrough (Slim Pickens) assault Lang, he realizes it is time to steps up against the corruption.

Rough night in Jericho is a rough, no nonsense, thrilling western. It is surprising how violent it is for a 60s western. Arnold Laven really directed a great underrated western here. Dean Martin, George Peppard and Jean Simmons really bring the acting chops to this film. Just amazing!

The film has been transferred in widescreen format in 2.35:1 aspect ratio 1080p and the audio is DTS-HD Master mono track. I have to say that the colors are deep and vibrant. The cinematography of the area shots of  Arizona and Utah. This picture is near flawless.

Now as awesome as it is to have an absolute stunning Blu-ray of this western, Kino Lorber always brings us more. Also on this release is English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing, The Theatrical Trailer, and a brand new audio commentary by Film Historian Samm Deighan. On this commentary he drops the knowledge about Dino, director Arnold Laven, Jean Simmons and so much more. Such great information!

Kino Lorber Studio Classics have done it yet again and given film fans another film that they need to add to their libraries. I think you are going to be impressed with the quality of the film print on this Blu-ray.

So if you are a fan of westerns of Dean Martin films this is an amazing Blu-ray to add to your collection. Head over to Amazon.com and get your copy today.



Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the Best) Kino Lorber's Blu-ray of Rough Night in Jericho receives...

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Giant from the Unknown (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

In the 1950s and 60s sci-fi horror B-Movies were all the rage. Teens loved to go to the theaters or drive-ins and watch young people fight monsters and creatures from outer space. It was their favorite form of entertainment, thus the reason there are so many B-Movies from the 50s and 60s.

One of those cheesy Sci-fi horror films was released in 1958 and was titled Giant from the Unknown. This film was released on DVD before. But now for the first time ever this 50s B-movie has been restored in 4K and is on deluxe Blu-ray from The Film Detective.

The film follows the events of the mountain town Pine Ridge, California. Citizens are worried when there are a series of livestock mutilations in nearby Devil's Crag. Dr. Frederick Cleveland, his daughter Janet and a scientific researcher Wayne Brooks look for ancient artifacts of a giant 500-year-old Spanish conquistador. Bust when a lightning storm brings the giant who was preserved in suspended animation back to life, no one is safe from his rampage.

This film is typical 50s sci-fi horror. From the writing, acting and the make-up created by Jack Pierce, known for his Universal Pictures' classic monster makeup for Boris Karloff's Frankenstein (1931), The Mummy (1932), and Lon Chaney Jr.'s The Wolf Man (1941).

These B-movies were not made to create conversations of deeper issues. These were just made to take audiences on a fun and exciting ride. And I have to say that Giant from the Unknown still to this day accomplishes that goal.

The film has been transferred in 1.85:1 widescreen aspect ratio and in 1080p with DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track. It was taken from a new 4k scan of the original 35mm negative. In my humble opinion there is just the right amount of film grain and no real damage to the film print at all. The term "in glorious black and white" used to be used. Here the black and white really does look glorious.

Now the amazing restoration would be enough for me to call this a must own. But The Film Detective went above and beyond and added great bonus features in this release. Take a look at what is included.

BONUS FEATURES:

* Audio Commentary with Author/ Historian Tom Weaver and Guests Audio Commentary with co-star Gary Crutcher
* 'YOU'RE A B-MOVIE STAR, CHARLIE BROWN' - An all-new interview actor/screenwriter Gary Crutcher
* 'THE MAN WITH A BADGE: BOB STEELE IN THE 1950'S' - An all-new interview with author/film historian C. Courtney Joyner
* Collector’s booklet with still gallery and liner notes by Tom Weaver
* Original Trailer

As a huge fan of 50s sci-fi horror films this is a great film I am so glad I had the opportunity to add to my collection. I am proud to display this amazing Blu-ray and can't wait to experience the 50s sci-fi goodness over and over again.

If you are a fan of 1950s sci-fi horror films as much as I am. This Blu-ray release from The Film Detective is a must own. Head over to Amazon.com and get your copy today.

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) Film Detective's Giant from the Unknown Blu-ray receives...

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Sudden Fear (DVD Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Film Noir is a movie term used to describe stylish crime dramas. These kinds of film were extremely popular in the 1940s and 50s. They were easy and cheap to make and they brought in great money. That is way there are so many from this era.

The great Joan Crawford starred in many a film noir over her illustrious career. One such film was 1952s Sudden Fear. Now Kino Lorber has released the Cohen Film Collection's 2K restoration of this classic on DVD.

The film follows acclaimed playwright Myra Hudson (Joan Crawford) who fires Lester Blaine (Jack Palance), a slick actor from her latest play. Soon after they fall in love and marry. After the honeymoon, Myra hears a recording of Lester and his lover, Irene (Gloria Grahame), plotting her murder to gain her inheritance. Initially broken my this revelation she soon devises a plot for revenge.

Director David Miller put together a true film noir master piece. And Joan Crawford and Jack Palance are exceptional on screen. No wonder they were nominated for Oscars, even if they didn't win. Those nominations were well deserved. Gloria Grahame is an amazing supporting actress in this film as well. This is a true thrilling piece of cinema that will have you on the edge of your seat to the crazy climax.

This film has been re-mastered and restored in 2K. It is presented in it's original full screen format and in 2.0 audio. The film has never looked and sounded better than in this new restoration. I am glad this film got this 2K treatment. It is a flawless restoration. It truly does deserve it.




As for DVD bonus features, there is English Subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. And an absolute amazing audio commentary by Jeremy Arnold the author of Turner Classic Movies: The Essentials: 52 Must-See Movies and Why They Matter. He dives into why he loves this film so much, and I agree with him 100%.

If you are a fan of film noirs, Joan Crawford or Jack Palance, Sudden Fear is the perfect storm. You can add this film noir classic to your collection today by heading over to Amazon.com.

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the best) The Kino Lorber DVD of Sudden Fear receives...

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Room For One More (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Cary Grant is the epitome of Hollywood class. When you look at Cary Grant you think class! He just carried himself in they way. In his films he explored every aspect of genre. From Drama to Comedy. Action to fantasy. Thriller to adventure.

In 1952 Cary Grant joined his than wife Betsy Drake to star together in a comedy-drama, entitled Room For One More. Now Warner Archive has given this 50s gem of a film a Blu-ray release this film so richly deserves.

The film follows the Rose Family. A New Jersey family headed by parents Anna and George and their three children. Life is good, but it about to get a little stressful when Anna decides they should adopt two orphans. One a suicidal girl who was abandoned by her mother and the a boy with an orthopedic disability.

This film was based on a 1950 autobiography of the same name by Anna Perrott Rose. This was an amazing little film. A very great mix of comedy and drama. The film is filled with heart and it will have you laughing one minute and shedding a tear the next. It is a roller coaster ride of a film I loved every minute of it.

The film has been transferred in it's original full screen format but is presented in 1080p ad the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. The film looks absolutely stunning on Blu-ray. They say "shot in glorious black and white", the whites a bright and the darks are deep. The picture is crisp and clean. There is no signs of damage to the print what so ever. I am so glad this film was given the HD love by Warner Archive.

Special features included in this Blu-ray release are; English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. There is also a theatrical trailer and 2 classic cartoons Operation Rabbit and Feed the Kitty.

If you are a fan of good family comedy-dramas or of Cary Grant. You are going to want to add this release to your collection. And don't say I have to many Cary Grant films cause there is "Room for One More". Head over to Amazon.com and get your copy. 

* This Blu-ray will be released on 1/26/2021.

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) Warner Archive's Room for One More Blu-ray receives....

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Captain Newman M.D. (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

In the 60s many films were made with stories revolving around the war armies soldiers and the effects of combat. Some were real dramatic takes on war, where others we a little more lighthearted. 1963's Captain Newman M.D. lies a little somewhere in between.

Kino Lorber Studio Classics have recently released some great war pictures, The Train, The Secret War of Harry Frigg and Beach Red. Now Captain Newman M.D. gets it's turn to shine on Blu-ray!

The film follows Captain Josiah Newman (Gregory Peck) a doctor in charge of a neuropsychiatric ward, at an Army Air Corps hospital in Arizona. The hospital is horribly understaffed, so Newman does what he needs to do to help of his staff accomplish their tasks. At the facility Newman is generally given six weeks to cure them or send them on to another facility.

This film was far ahead of it's time. It was one of the first films to explore the issues of service men face like PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome also known as "Battle Fatigue"), "Battle Neurosis" and "Shell Shock." It is very difficult to bridge between the horrors of war and comedy. M*A*S*H* did it very well and on most accounts I think this film achieve what it set out to do.

Director David Miller really bring a realistic look to war and it's effect on people. Showing that sometimes you got to laugh through trouble or it will drive you insane. The cast is tremendous starring the legendary Gregory Peck, the amazing Tony Curtis and beautiful and talented Angie Dickenson. Than there is amazing supporting cast featuring Bobby Darin, Eddie Albert, Robert Duvall, Dick Sargent and Larry Storch. Such a stellar cast.

The film is presented in widescreen format in 1.85:1 aspect ratio and in 1920x1080p. The audio is DTS-HD master audio 2.0. I was really impressed with the film transfer here. There is no damage to the picture and the audio was crisp. It really looks and sound pretty amazing! There is also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.




As for the special features there is the Theatrical trailer and trailer of other Kino Lorber releases. Than there is the brand new Audio Commentary by Film Historian Samm Deighan. She talks about everything from the screenwriting aspect of trying to balance drama and comedy. The amazing cast including a lot of background information about the great Eddie Albert, which was a highlight!

If you enjoy M*A*S*H* I think Captain Newman M.D. is going to be a film you are going to want to check out. It is truly as they say "just want the doctor ordered". If you would like to get a copy of this amazing Blu-ray release head over to Amazon.com and get your copy today!

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) We would score Captain Newman M.D. Blu-ray release..

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Tremors (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Sci-fi/horror films in the 90s were just flat out cheesy good. They were off the wall and crazy and film fans couldn't get enough of them. One 90s cult classic was Tremors.

Tremors was so popular that it spawned a boatload of additional films and a short-lived tv series as well. Now Arrow Video is giving this cult classic an epic Blu-ray release.

The film takes place in the small town if Perfection, Nevada (population 14). When handymen Val (Kevin Bacon) and Earl (Fred Ward) are tired of their jobs and are about to leave the town behind, things get strange and only stranger. They find half-eaten corpses on the road, phone line aren't working and they run into a female scientist who has evidence of unusually strong seismic activity in the area. Come to find out there is something under the ground in Perfection and it's hungry for the people!

This is a very fun well acted and directed sci-fi horror film. But for someone who has never seen it, it is good to note there is a fair amount of monster violence, sexual dialogue and profanity. So parents beware this film is for adults.

The new 4K restoration from the original negative has been approved by director Ron Underwood and director of photography Alexander Gruszynski. The film is presented in widescreen format in 1080p and DTS-HD MA original theatrical 2.0 stereo, 4.0 surround & remixed 5.1 surround audio options. The film has never looked this good ever! It is remarkable how good this film looks on Blu-ray. There is also some English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

For fans of this film an absolute remarkable restoration of this film in 4K would be enough to make this a purchase. But Arrow Video has really went above and beyond and beyond and made an epic release. They have loaded this release with so much goodies it will take you days to go through it all! Take a look at what is included.


DISC 1 FEATURE & EXTRAS
* New audio commentary by director Ron Underwood and writers/producers Brent Maddock & S.S. Wilson
* New audio commentary by Jonathan Melville, author of Seeking Perfection: The Unofficial Guide to Tremors
* Making Perfection, a brand new documentary by Universal Pictures interviewing key cast and crew from the franchise (including Kevin Bacon, Michael Gross, Ariana Richards, Ron Underwood, Brent Maddock & S.S. Wilson, among many others) and revisiting the original locations
* The Truth About Tremors, a newly filmed interview with co-producer Nancy Roberts on the film's rocky road to the screen
* Bad Vibrations, a newly filmed interview with director of photography Alexander Gruszynski
* Aftershocks and Other Rumblings, newly filmed on-set stories from associate producer Ellen Collett
* Digging in the Dirt, a new featurette interviewing the crews behind the film's extensive visual effects
* Music for Graboids, a new featurette on the film's music with composers Ernest Troost and Robert Folk
* Pardon My French!, a newly assembled compilation of overdubs from the edited-for television version
* The Making of Tremors, an archive documentary from 1995 by Laurent Bouzereau, interviewing the filmmakers and special effects teams
* Creature Featurette, an archive compilation of on-set camcorder footage showing the making of the Graboids
* Electronic press kit featurette and interviews with Kevin Bacon, Michael Gross and Reba McEntire
* Deleted scenes, including the original opening scene
* Theatrical trailers, TV and radio spots for the original film + trailers for the entire Tremors franchise
* Comprehensive image galleries, behind-the-scenes stills, storyboards + two different drafts of the screenplay

Disc 2 Features
* Extended hour-long interviews with Ron Underwood, creature designer Alec Gillis and more!
* Outtakes w/ optional introduction and commentary by S.S. Wilson
* Three early shorts by the makers of Tremors

Now as amazing as all these disc features are Arrow Video didn't stop there they also added a 60-page perfect-bound book featuring new writing by Kim Newman and Jonathan Melville and selected archive materials. A Large fold-out double-sided poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Matt Frank + Small fold-out double-sided poster featuring new Graboid X-ray art by Matt Frank. Six double-sided, postcard-sized lobby card reproduction artcards. And a Limited Edition packaging w/ reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Matt Frank

Arrow Video has really done something special with this release. Not since the Gamera Collection have I seen a Blu-ray release like this. Arrow Video deserves a lot of love for making this release such an epic one for fans of 90s sci-fi / horror cinema.

If you are a fan of Kevin Bacon, 90s sci-fi cinema or scif-fi/horror movies Arrow Video's release of Tremors is an absolute must own. This release will give you days of enjoyment with all these bonus features.

So I highly recommend you head over to Amazon.com and get your copy today. You won't regret this purchase.

Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) Arrow Video's Tremors receives...

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