Reviewed by Jason LockardMVD Visual since starting the label MVD Marquee Collection have released some great titles. Some of this years releases we have got the pleasure to review include; Getting even with Dad, Double Impact and The Illusionist. Well, now it is time for another film to be on the Marquee. This time it's Alec Baldwin's Shortcut to Happiness.
Shortcut to Happiness follows Jabez Stone (Alec Baldwin) a desperate writer who feels all hope is lost when his friend, Julius Jensen (Dan Aykroyd), gets published. In an attempt to get his work published, he meets a beautiful stranger (Jennifer Love Hewitt) who offers him fame and fortune in exchange for his soul, to which he readily excepts.
Jabez soon has everything he ever dreamed of. But with success comes, the curse of lost friendship. So Jabez asks to be released him from their deal, only to realizes she is has no intention of giving up that prize. So he Jabez must ask for help from the famed orator Daniel Webster (Anthony Hopkins).
This was a very entertaining little film. The cast was marvelously put together. And of course Jennifer Love Hewitt is great in anything she does. While it may not be true to the source material, it is a modern take on The Devil and Daniel Webster.
It is good to note that there is some profanity and sexual situations in this film. It's not overly bad, but I do suggest parents watch the film before letting the teens see it.
The film was plagued with financial difficulties. And during post-production the film which was to be Alec Baldwin's directorial debut was taken from him and directing credit was replaced with the pseudonym "Harry Kirkpatrick".
As for the MVD Marquee Blu-ray, the film has been transferred in HD 1.78:1 aspect ratio and audio in 2.0 English Stereo Sound. There is also English subtitles. I have to say the picture looks amazingly clear. There is little to no sign of grain in the picture. As for the audio it is crystal clear.
Now as for special bonus features, this is where the release falters where others have succeeded. The only bonus features on this release is the original theatrical trailer and trailers for other MVD releases, "Find me guilty", "The Illusionist", "Resurrecting the Champ" and "Winter Passing".
So if your a fan of Devil and Daniel Webster, Alec Baldwin or Jennifer Love Hewitt. This is probably right up your alley. Head over to MVDShop.com and pick up your copy of the Blu-ray and add it to your collection.
Audiences: Teens and Adults
Objectionable Material: Profanity and Sexual Content
Length: 106 Minutes
Genre: Comedy
Blu-ray Rating: B
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