1 Day @ A TIME! Season 2 Episode 3

1 Day @ A TIME the Christian Sitcom! You can watch Episode 1 here. & Episode 2 Here.

In this episode "Virginia Today" Betty Jones is set to direct an episode of the community TV show, but the scheduled host became sick and Betty asks Pastor J to fill in.

We hope you enjoy it!
JASON

Flashback Friday #3

  On this episode of Flashback Friday Jason "Pastor J" Lockard talks one of his favorite 70's Saturday Morning Shows, Sid and Marty Krofft's Land of the Lost.

Do you enjoy this show? What is your favorite Saturday Morning shows from yesteryear. Let us know in the comments below!

Blu-ray Review: Genesis II / Planet Earth

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Gene Roddenberry a name any fan of science fiction will know at a moment's notice. He was the visionary behind the TV classic Star Trek. A prolific writer and creator. In 1970's he created and wrote two sci-fi made-for-tv movie scripts dealing with a man from the past finding himself in the future. Yeah it has been done before, but why not again?!

Now the fine folks at Warner Archive is making sci-fi fans dreams comes true by releasing these two made-for-TV films available on a double feature Blu-ray.  Let's take a look at these two films.

Movie Rating:

****=Don’t Miss it!
***=Worth a look.
**=An Ok way to spend an evening.
*=You haven’t missed anything.


Genesis II (1973) Dylan Hunt is a NASA scientist who is working on "Project Ganymede",  a suspended animation system for astronauts on long-duration spaceflights. As a test he is put in a state of hibernation. During this test a massive Earthquake occurs burying the lab. He is awoken in the year 2133 by an organization called "PAX" (the Latin word for "peace"). Dylan soon finds this world is different than the one he was used to. ***


Planet Earth (1974) Dylan Hunt now 22nd century and working with PAX. He and others are trying to locate missing doctor, Jonathan Conno. But is soon captured and sold as a slave. Where women rule the land and men are slaves called Dinks. He helps in a male rebel movement. ***

These are very entertaining 70's sci-fi TV movies. Gene Roddenberry does an masterful job as always weaving a story with real issues. Alex Cord as the first Dylan Hunt and John Saxon as the 2nd both did an exceptional job as the lead, in their respective films. It was so cool seeing Ted Cassidy (Lurch on Addams Family TV Series) as Isiah.

These films were pilot movies to test for a possible series. I kind of wished they would have made it to series. It would have been cool to see more adventures of Dylan Hunt. Sadly all we can do is dream about what might have been.

As for the transfer Warner Archive has preserved both films 1.33:1 aspect ratio while the resolution is in 1080p. I hate stretched images and thankfully the did not do that. The audio is in English 2.0 Mono DTS-HD MA. There is also English Subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. A very nice bonus for those who need it.

I am so impressed with the quality of these two film prints. They look and sound crisp and clean. The colors are bright and vibrant. There is no real signs of damage to the prints, as far as I could see. This is a very nice little double feature of sci-fi action adventure from the mind of the legendary Gene Roddenberry.

I think fans of 70's Sci-fi and Gene Roddenberry will find this an absolute must add to their collection. I highly suggest heading over to Amazon.com and get your copy today. Be sure to check out the large catalogue of Blu-rays and DVDs at WarnerArchive.com.

 

Out of 4 Film Reels we would score Warner Archive's Blu-ray release of Genesis II and Planet Earth....

(2 Movies on Blu-ray for the {Price of 1. That is a total win!)

Top 7 (Movie Thrillers)

  On this new feature here on RetroGRADE we will count down our TOP 7 favorites. Today is the Top 7 Movie thrillers.

Let us know when you would like us to cover in a Top 7 List. We may just take your advise. Now enjoy today's TOP 7 Movie thrillers.

4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review: Pitch Black

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Arrow Video is great to bring cult films to movie fans deluxe edition Blu-rays. And they have given Vin Diesel's first starring role and the role that put him in the hearts of action film fans, Pitch Black it's time to shine.

The film follows the crew of a commercial transport ship that get's marooned on a planet full of bloodthirsty creatures that only come out to feast at night. But then, they learn that a month-long eclipse is about to occur. Their only hope to survive is the hardened criminal Richard B. Riddick. Who just happened to have his eyes 'shined' while incarcerated giving him the ability to see in the dark.

Pitch Black is a thrilling and action packed scifi ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. There is a lot of sci-fi violence and there is a good amount of profanity as well. So it is good to keep in mind this is not for the kids and teens. This is a mature audience release.

Arrow Video has restored not only the theatrical release but the Director's cut of the films in 4K. The audio is the original DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround. There is also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing on both cuts. Looking at this release in comparison to the older blu-ray releases, there is no comparison. These films picture is stunning! The picture is crisp and the sound is clear. This is one amazing restoration.

But as with all Arrow Video releases they wouldn't be an Arrow Video release without bonus features. And Boy did they go all out on this release. Take a look.

SPECIAL EDITION CONTENTS

Brand new 4K restoration by Arrow Films of the Theatrical and Director s Cuts of the film, approved by director David Twohy

4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible)

Original DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround on both cuts

Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing on both cuts

Archive commentary with director David Twohy and stars Vin Diesel and Cole Hauser

Archive commentary with director David Twohy, producer Tom Engelman and visual effects supervisor Peter Chiang

Nightfall: The Making of Pitch Black, a newly filmed interview with director/co-writer David Twohy

Black Box: Jackie's Journey, a newly filmed interview with actor Rhiana Griffith

Black Box: Shazza's Last Stand, a newly filmed interview with actor Claudia Black

Black Box: Bleach Bypassed, a newly filmed interview with cinematographer David Eggby

Black Box: Cryo-Locked, a newly filmed interview with visual effects supervisor Peter Chiang

Black Box: Primal Sounds, a newly filmed interview with composer Graeme Revell

The Making of Pitch Black, a short behind-the-scenes featurette

Pitch Black Raw, a comparison between early CG tests and the final footage

Additional behind-the-scenes making of footage

2004 archive bonus features, including an introduction by Twohy, A View Into The Dark, and Chronicles of Riddick Visual Encyclopedia

Johns Chase Log, a short prequel narrated by Cole Hauser detailing the character s hunt for Riddick

The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury (in 16:9 widescreen with DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio), an animated short film directed by Peter Chung that acts as a bridgepoint between Pitch Black and The Chronicles of Riddick, featuring vocal performances by Vin Diesel, Keith David and Rhiana Griffith reprising their roles

Dark Fury bonus features including Bridging The Gap, Peter Chung: The Mind of an Animator, A View Into The Light, and a pre-animation version of the film

Slam City, a motion comic from the film s official website

Into Pitch Black, a TV special offering an alternative non-canon glimpse into what happened before and after the events of the film

Raveworld: Pitch Black Event footage

Theatrical trailers, sequels & video game trailers

Image galleries

Reversible sleeve featuring newly commissioned 'night' and 'day' artwork by Luke Preece

If this is what is to come from Arrow Video for the Ultra HD Blu-rays we are all in for some physical media treats. I am looking forward to what is ahead. It was very noce to see them add the Dark Furyt animated short film to this release. I am hope with that addition, we will get a Blu-ray of The Chronicles of Riddick. That would be Epic.

So if you are a fan of Vin Diesel or Sci-fi films. I highly suggest the Arrow Video release of Pitch Black. Pitch Black now available at Amazon on Blu-ray or 4K UtraHD.

Out of 4 Film Reels we would score Arrow Video's 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release of Pitch Black....

(With all these bonus feature it deserve more.)

1 Day @ A TIME! Season 2 Episode 2: It's In The Bag

Last week we debuted 1 Day @ A TIME the Christian Sitcom! You can watch Episode 1 here.

In episode "It's In The Bag" Betty Jones finds a brown paper bag in one of the pews after service. What is inside has Pastor J shocked.

Thanks and We hope you enjoy it!

JASON

If Video Doesn't Load Click Here to view the Video.

IDW EXPANDS EXECUTIVE TEAM AND ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONS

One of the leaders in the comic book industry recently expanded their executive team and announced promotions. Take a look at the IDW Publishing press release below.

*****************************************************************

Blake Kobashigawa Named Vice President of Sales, IDW Publishing 

Joseph Hughes Promoted To Director Of Creative Affairs, IDW Entertainment

 

Marisa Stotter Elevated to Manager of Creative Affairs

 

SAN DIEGO / LOS ANGELES, CA - September 10, 2020 - IDW Publishing (IDWP) and IDW Entertainment (IDWE), divisions of IDW Media Holdings Inc. (OTC PINK: IDWM), an integrated media company today announced that Blake Kobashigawa has been named Vice President of Sales, IDWP. Joseph Hughes has been named Director of Creative Affairs, IDWE, and Marisa Stotter has been elevated to Manager of Creative Affairs, IDWE.   

 

“Blake and Joe, both of whom enjoyed tremendous success at one of the comic industry’s most storied operations, DC Comics, are the perfect choices to fill their respective crucial roles at IDW,” said Nachie Marsham, Publisher, IDWP. “Blake is an innovative team-builder with a history of seeking out new business and strengthening existing relationships. Joe has impeccable taste, strong industry relationships, and a passion for both creators and the creative. We’re privileged to have them on board.” 

 

As IDWP’s new Vice President of Sales, Kobashigawa will be responsible for developing the company’s sales strategy, initiatives, campaigns and overall business objectives across all markets. 

 

Kobashigawa previously spent more than seven years at DC Comics, working in multiple capacities including sales, marketing, business development and product development for the book trade, mass, digital and direct-to-consumer markets. At DC Comics, he spearheaded the Essential Graphic Novels program, and led its international book and mass market initiatives.

 

“My childhood dream was to work in comics and I’ve been a lifelong fan. So, coming back to this industry that I love so much with this incredible opportunity at IDW is more than I could have ever hoped for,” said Kobashigawa, VP, Sales. “I’m beyond excited to dig in and expand IDW’s reach with comic shops, book stores and mass market retailers, as well as librarians and educators.”

 

Since leaving DC in 2018, Kobashigawa has worked as the Head of Industry Operations at Merchbar.com, the world’s largest direct to consumer marketplace for official music merchandise.

 

Hughes moves up from an editorial role with IDWP to IDWE’s Director of Creative Affairs. He will be responsible for working across the business to develop strategy and hone creative for IDW’s translation of its extensive IP library into TV, film, podcasts and digital media. He will manage creator talent for all IDWE projects, identify and recruit creators to pitch new comics for publishing consideration, and work with creative affairs and development to identify and curate titles to pitch to external talent.

 

During his time with IDWP, Hughes successfully developed and oversaw significant titles including Star Trek, DuckTales, Samurai Jack and Sonic the Hedgehog while building and maintaining relationships with major industry licensors. Hughes previously served as Editor-in-Chief at ComicsAlliance. During his tenure, the site received the Eisner Award for Journalism, the industry’s highest honor. Before being an Editor-in-Chief, Hughes worked at DC Comics as a Direct Sales Representative and later as an Assistant Editor at the Vertigo imprint. He was previously a Manager at Forbidden Planet in New York.

 

“Transitioning from publishing to the entertainment side of IDW is extremely exciting for me,” said Hughes, Director, Creative Affairs. “This new position allows me to focus on all of my favorite aspects of the business — working with the best creative minds in the industry, bringing to life IDW’s library of beloved titles and discovering new and novel stories to transform into diverse media for fans to enjoy.”

 

Stotter moves from Senior Coordinator to Manager of Creative Affairs, IDWE, where she will support the translation of library titles with media rights into their optimal ancillary format including tv, film, podcasts and other digital media. 

 

“We’re thrilled that Marisa will expand her role at IDW to bring more titles from our active library to the screen and highlight new stories and voices,” said IDW VP of Creative Affairs, Veronica Brooks. 

 

Before joining the IDW team, Stotter was Coordinator of Scripted Television for Conde Nast Entertainment. She started her career producing and directing the documentary She Makes Comics. 

 

“I’ve been a comic book lover ever since I can remember so when I landed in the IDW family, I couldn’t have been more excited. I’m looking forward to my expanded role with the company,” said Stotter, Manager, Creative Affairs.