Trailer for "Insidious: Chapter 2" - Starring Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne

Insidious is a truly terrifying film, so I expect the same kind of thrills and chills from the sequel, Chapter 2, which is scheduled to be released on September 13 (yes, that is Friday the 13th!). You can read my review of the original film here.

Watch the trailer for Insidious: Chapter 2 below.

Retro DVD Round-Up: "Primal Fear" Starring Ed Norton and "Parenthood" Starring Steve Martin

Primal Fear (1996)

The Basics - Psychological thriller focusing on the alleged murder of a priest by a young man, Aaron Stampler (Ed Norton), who may be suffering from mental illness.

Reasons to Watch - The superb cast is led by Richard Gere, as Aaron's attorney, Martin Vail, and the aforementioned Ed Norton. The supporting cast features the considerable talents of Laura Linney, Frances McDormand and Alfre Woodard. The screenplay, by Steve Shagan and Ann Biderman, is fascinating and allows for character development of the principal characters, who are all complex.

The Bottom Line - The performances more than make up for the problems associated with the motives behind the killing of the priest and the endless and melodramatic sidebars that occur in the courtroom. Ed Norton is convincing as the unpredictable Aaron, who be smarter than the more established professionals he encounters. The extended run time is the result of a few unnecessary scenes with disposable minor characters, but overall, Primal Fear is a solid film.

Parenthood (1989)

The Basics - Ensemble comedy centering around an extended family whose imperfections make them likable, for the most part. The various characters struggle with divorce, gambling, adolescence, and the many problems associated with raising children.

Reasons to Watch - The talented cast is led by Steve Martin, who proves that he is still a wild and crazy guy. The supporting cast features fine work from Jason Robards, Mary Steenburgen and Diane Wiest and the younger cast members (at the time) include Martha Plimpton (Raising Hope), Leaf/Joaquin Phoenix and Keanu Reeves. The late Helen Shaw provides the emotional heart of the film, as Grandma.

The Bottom Line - Entertaining and well acted film that features relatable characters who are all being challenged to rise above their problems and find a way to keep the family unit together, with mixed results. Parenthood holds up well after nearly a quarter of a century and that can be partially credited to director Ron Howard.

"Rhapsody in Black: The Life and Music of Roy Orbison" by John Kruth

When I worked in music retail in the late 1990's and early part of the 2000's, I gained a new appreciation for Roy Orbison by listening to The Very Best of Roy Orbison compilation CD. That disc was kept in heavy rotation and could be heard throughout the store. While I was already a fan of the late singer for some time, I never realized the true power of his voice or the overall quality of so many of his recordings. My favorite Roy Orbison tune up to that point was the remake of "Crying," with Roy and K.D. Lang, and it remains a favorite, but his cover of "I Drove All Night" is his very best, in my opinion. The Very Best of Roy Orbison is one of those rare compilations that lives up to its name and every song is worth listening to over and over again.

Even though I am a longtime fan of Roy Orbison, I was not aware of the personal tragedies that he suffered and the questionable career decisions that he and his associates made during his decades long career. That information and much more is included in John Kruth's biography Rhapsody in Black: The Life and Music of Roy Orbison (Backbeat Books). The author details Orbison's early life and struggles with finding love and feeling accepted, as well as his unconventional first marriage to Claudette Frady and the peculiarities of his second marriage to Barbara Jacobs. In addition, every studio album that Orbison released is discussed in detail, from the high points of the early 1960s to the low points of 1970s and then a resurgence in the late 1980s, before the singer's untimely death.

Despite the considerable problems that he faced in life, Orbison is described as a very kind, yet sometimes distant person, particularly to those who did not know him well. Of course, he had an outlet for his heartbreak, which is reflected in many of his songs, which became big hits over the years, including "In Dreams," "Only the Lonely" and the aforementioned "Crying." I found it fascinating to learn how Roy Orbison would prepare to sing a new song by testing his vocals until he discovered the exact approach to take. He appeared to have an innate sense of what would work. In addition, the story of how he came to wear his trademark black sunglasses is interesting and somewhat amusing.

Roy Orbison's connection to other legendary music industry talents, including Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and his brothers in The Traveling Wilburys make for fascinating reading. In addition, the recording of Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night, which aired as a television special in 1988, recalls the amazing number of entertainers and fellow musicians who attended the event, which served to reignite Orbison's career. Indeed, he was a beloved figure who influenced many others during his long career.

John Kruth often refers to Roy Orbison as "the Voice" and deservedly so. His unique vocals and emotional delivery often conveyed heartbreak or sadness, but his fans loved those songs, perhaps because most everyone's heart has been broken at one time or another. Indeed, love and loss is relatable to almost everyone and few singers have ever expressed those emotions so honestly or powerfully as Roy Orbison. Perhaps that is why, a quarter century after his death, he is still remembered and revered by so many of his fans and peers.

Rhapsody in Black: The Life and Music of Roy Orbison is now available from Backbeat Books and includes 16 pages of photographs.

Alfred Hitchcock Blu-ray Singles Wave 1 Includes "Rope" and "Shadow of a Doubt"

Last year Universal Studios released a 15-disc Alfred Hitchcock box set, The Masterpiece Collection, featuring many of the legendary director's classic films. Those films are going to be released individually beginning October 1, 2013. The first five titles, part of "Wave 1," are listed below. 

 

 

James Stewart and Doris Day star in the international thriller The Man Who Knew Too Much directed by Alfred Hitchcock. While vacationing in Morocco, Ben and Jo McKenna are suddenly immersed in a dangerous situation after a French spy dies in Ben's arms. Discovering that their son has been kidnapped and taken to England, the McKennas are caught up in a nightmare of espionage, assassinations and terror. Soon, all of their lives hang in the balance as they draw closer to the truth that leads to a chilling climax in London's famous Royal Albert Hall. Featuring the Academy Award® winning song “Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera)” sung by Doris Day, this remake of his own 1934 film is an unforgettable classic from the Master of Suspense.

Inspired by a real-life murder case, Alfred Hitchcock’s Rope is a shocking spellbinder starring James Stewart. Two friends (Farley Granger and John Dall) strangle a classmate for intellectual thrills and then proceed to throw a party for the victim’s family and friends - with the body stuffed inside the trunk they use for a buffet table. As the killers turn the conversation to committing the “perfect murder," their former teacher (Stewart) becomes increasingly suspicious that his students have turned his intellectual theories into brutal reality. Filmed in only nine different takes almost entirely on a single sound stage, the first color film from the Master of Suspense is a chilling look into the dark side of humanity.

Alfred Hitchcock’s Saboteur is a riveting wartime thriller following an innocent man who suddenly finds himself in a very deadly situation. After aircraft factory worker Barry Kane (Robert Cummings) witnesses his plant’s firebombing by a Nazi agent, he finds himself falsely accused of sabotage and killing his best friend. To clear his name, Kane begins a relentless cross-country chase that takes him from Los Angeles to Boulder Dam and New York’s Radio City Music Hall. The suspense builds to a climactic finale atop the Statue of Liberty that has become one of the most iconic scenes ever filmed by the Master of Suspense.

One of Alfred Hitchcock’s most chilling films, Shadow of a Doubt, was considered a personal favorite by the director himself. After her charming Uncle Charlie (Joseph Cotton) comes to visit in the sleepy town of Santa Rosa, his favorite niece and namesake, “Young Charlie” (Teresa Wright), begins to suspect him of being the infamous Merry Widow murderer. As she draws closer to the truth, a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse begins leading to a shocking climax in this riveting psychological thriller from the Master of Suspense.

Set against a picturesque New England backdrop, Alfred Hitchcock’s The Trouble With Harry is a dark comedy starring Edmund Gwenn, John Forsythe, Shirley MacLaine and Jerry Mathers. The trouble with Harry is that he is dead and, while no one really minds, everyone feels responsible. After Harry’s body is discovered in the woods, several of the local residents must determine not only how and why he was killed but what to do with the body. Featuring romance, humor…and several unearthings of the corpse, this quirky romp showcases a decidedly different type of story from the Master of Suspense.

Nielsen Ratings for the Week of August 19, 2013: CBS and NBC Dominate the Top Ten

Ratings for the week of August 19, 2013 (courtesy of Nielsen Media Research)

Total Average Viewers (in millions) by Network:

CBS - 6.12
NBC - 4.71
ABC - 4.08
FOX - 2.61
The CW - .89

Top 10 Shows (viewers in millions):

1. Under the Dome (CBS) - 10.64
2. America's Got Talent (NBC-Wednesday) - 9.35
3. 60 Minutes (CBS) (r) - 8.67
4. America's Got Talent (NBC-Tuesday) - 8.52
5. NBC NFL Pre-Season Game (NBC) (s) - 8.18
6. NCIS (CBS) (r) - 7.95
7. NFL Pre-Season (CBS) (s) - 7.68
8. The Big Bang Theory (CBS) (r) - 7.38
9. Big Brother 15 (CBS-Sunday) - 7.17
10. Two and a Half Men (CBS) (r) - 6.86

(r) = Repeat
(s) = Special

Remembering Julie Harris

Actress Julie Harris had an amazing six plus decade career in television, film and in the theater. While I am familiar with some of her films, such as The Haunting (1963) and The Dark Half (1993), I will always remember her as Lilimae Clements on the long running television series Knots Landing. Originally, Lilimae was not a likable character and flashbacks revealed how she always put herself and her music career ahead of her children, even refusing to help her pregnant daughter, Valene (Joan Van Ark), when she was being pursued by the dastardly J.R. Ewing (Larry Hagman) and his paid henchmen (Knots Landing was spun off from Dallas). However, during Harris's seven year stint on Knots Landing, she became the emotional heart of the show and came to develop a loving relationship with Valene, as well as earning the respect of her friends and neighbors. She could sing too, and was called upon from time to time to showcase her considerable musical talent on the series.

Julie Harris passed away on Saturday, August 24 at the age of 87.

Check out the videos below that showcase the work of Julie Harris on Knots Landing. The first is a compilation of scenes from the series and the second is an emotional scene featuring Alec Baldwin, who played her son, Joshua, and Lisa Hartman Black, who portrayed Cigi/Cathy.

Disneynature's "Bears" Trailer

Disneynature will release their latest documentary to coincide with Earth Day, Bears, on April 18 2014. Check out the trailer below.

Weekend Box Office Report for August 23-25, 2013: "The Butler" Leads, "We're the Millers" a Strong Second

Lee Daniels' The Butler topped the weekend box office for the second time in as many weeks, with an estimated $17 million, while We're the Millers (pictured above) continues to hold up well after three weeks, with $13.5 million and a solid second place showing. The three new wide release entries are all off to a weak start. The comedy The World's End, starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, captured fourth place, with an estimated $8.9 million, which is just slightly behind The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, with $9.3 million. Of course, The World's End is playing in less than half as many locations as The Mortal Instruments, and its per screen average is the highest of any film in the top ten, so it deserves recognition. The third new release, the horror fest You're Next, landed in seventh place, with just over $7 million.

Here are the Top Ten Weekend films, according to early estimates (numbers are in millions):

 1. Lee Daniels' The Butler - $17.0 (Weinstein Company)

2. We're the Millers - $13.5 (Warner Bros./New Line)

3. The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones - $9.3 (Sony/Screen Gems)

4. The World's End  - $8.9 (Focus)

5. Planes - $8.6 (Disney)

6. Elysium - $7.1 (Sony/TriStar)

7. You're Next - $7.05 (Lionsgate)

8. Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters - $5.2 (Fox)

9.Blue Jasmine - $ 4.3 (Sony Pictures Classics)

10. Kick-Ass 2 - $4.27 (Universal)

Coming Soon: "Songs From Scandal" - Soul Classics Featured in Hit TV Series

SONGS FROM SCANDAL: MUSIC FOR GLADIATORS -

SOUL CLASSICS FEATURED IN THE HIT TV SERIES SET FOR RELEASE SEPTEMBER 3RD, 2013 VIA STAX RECORDS

LOS ANGELES, CA - The twists and turns of the American political system have long been turned into storied tales of deception, turmoil and mystery chronicling the dark underbelly of American culture. This year’s hottest political thriller, ABC’s Scandal, is a vivid example. But it was not just power, politics and drama that inspired writer, creator and executive producer Shonda Rhimes (Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice) to bring this story to life – the classic soul music of the 1970s was a dynamic and influential force as well. 

 

Stax Records, a division of Concord Music Group, has partnered with ABC Studios to release Songs From Scandal: Music For Gladiatorson September 3^rd, 2013. This 12-track collection features the iconic 1970s music heard throughout Seasons 1 and 2 of the smash hit television drama and coincides with the highly anticipated DVD release of Season 2, also on September 3^rd.

 

Shonda Rhimes also contributed the album’s extensive liner notes, which detail the passion and attitude of the music that fueled the creative process: “During those four days [of writing the Scandal pilot], the soundtrack of my writing was the funky, delicious music of the 1970s.”

 

The perfect companion piece to Seasons 1 and 2, this soundtrack allows true ScandalGladiators to experience the full spirit of the show. The set features iconic tracks from Booker T and the MG’s (“Green Onions”), Sly & The Family Stone (“Everyday People”), The Staple Singers (“Respect Yourself” – RAC Remix), Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell (“You’re All I Need To Get By”), and KC and The Sunshine Band (“Get Down Tonight”), just to name a few.

 

“It’s the music that came after they killed Jack and Bobby and Martin and Malcolm,” stated Rhimes in the liner notes. “It’s the music after Nixon disappointed a nation, it’s the music of the sexual revolution and the feminist movement.” And it’s this musical style that Rhimes and music supervisor Alex Patsavas chose to reflect the fierce determination of the series’ characters and storyline.

 

With fans eagerly awaiting the premiere of the third season on October 3^rd, 2013, there is no better time to celebrate this unique era of American music. Creator Rhimes concludes: “For those of you who heard this music the first time around, welcome home. For those of you who are hearing it for the first time, pleased to meet you. Put on your headphones and give this music a listen. And become a Gladiator in a suit.”

Songs From Scandal: Music For Gladiators Track list:

1.      War – Edwin Starr

2.      Green Onions – Booker T. & The MG’s

3.      Everyday People – Sly & The Family Stone

4.      I Can See Clearly Now – Johnny Nash

5.      Tell Me Something Good – Rufus and Chaka Khan

6.      Get Down Tonight – KC and The Sunshine Band

7.      I Believe In You (You Believe In Me) – Johnnie Taylor

8.      Respect Yourself (RAC Remix) – The Staple Singers

9.      Crazy – Bettye LaVette

10.  You’re All I Need To Get By – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

11.  I Think It’s Going To Rain Today – Nina Simone

12.  The Light – The Album Leaf

New in Theaters: "You're Next" - Oh, the Horror! (Comedy)

About half way through a screening of the new film You're Next I was convinced that it would be one of the worst I had ever seen. The majority of the acting was really bad, the attempts at drama fell short and resulted in several laugh out loud moments (look, she's about to run outside!) and that music!? Has a horror porno ever been made? If not, the score would be perfect for it! You're Next centers around a family gathering to celebrate the 35th anniversary of parents Paul (Rob Moran) and Aubrey (Barbara Crampton), who arrive at the family estate, which has been vacant, to prepare for the event. Almost immediately, Aubrey hears a strange noise and Paul goes to investigate, only to be interrupted by his son Crispian (A. J. Bowen), who has arrived with his much younger girlfriend, Erin (Sharni Vinson). As the family and their significant others begin to arrive, the party begins, but before dinner can be eaten, the family is attacked from the outside of the house with crossbows and from inside the house with axes and knives.

One by one the guests fall, as the three intruders wearing masks of a lamb, a tiger and a fox unleash carnage. But why? Well the answer to that question is more interesting than the first part of the film may lead you to believe. Indeed, there are a few clever twists to this blood soaked gore fest that may have viewers rooting for the demise of the more annoying and unlikable characters. While the three killers have a relatively easy time knocking off many of the guests, they are unprepared for Erin, who happens to be a survivalist behind her petite, but formidable frame. She shares her backstory about a paranoid and overprotective father who must have seen the future that Erin would face, because she needs as much strength and aggression that she can muster to fight off the three killers....and their accomplices.

The weapons used by various characters, including a meat tenderizer, to dispatch their victims is sometimes amusing, which helps to offset the grisly ways in which many of them die. Yes, You're Next is akin to torture porn (and again it has the perfect music!), but the interesting second half grabbed my attention and gave me someone to root for, which I never imagined would happen. I was completely invested in the film as it reached its pulse pounding conclusion, thanks in large part to the performance by Sharni Vinson, who proves that smart and capable people, like her character, Erin, can be used effectively in horror films. I never imagined I would recommend this film after seeing the first half, but I suspect fans of the horror genre will appreciate the effort put forth here, as well as those who can get past the blood and gore to enjoy this better than you might expect effort from director Adam Wingard and writer Simon Barrett.

New on DVD and Blu-ray: "Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright"

 

The latest Scooby-Doo adventure taps into contemporary popular culture and the overabundance of talent shows that now infiltrate the airways all year long. In the new original movie Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright, the Mystery Inc. gang travels to Chicago where Fred and Daphne are participating in the hit TV show Talent Star. In fact, the duo have been chosen as finalists and will perform live and compete with several other singers and musicians. Not to be outdone, Shaggy and Scooby formulate a plan to impress the producer of the show so that they too can be a part of the action. Good luck with that. The talent competition is being held in an old opera house that is home to a phantom (or two, or three), who plans to disrupt Talent Star by causing problems for many of the contestants.

 

The blending of the old (the Phantom of the opera) with the contemporary (television talent competitions) is nothing new for Scooby-Doo and the gang. For instance, the voice talents include Frank Welker, who has portrayed Fred for decades, and he is joined by Mindy Cohn (Velma), Grey DeLisle (Daphne) and Matthew Lillard (Shaggy), who have made the classic characters their own in recent years. The talented guest stars who lend their voices include Wayne Brady, Vivica A. Fox and John O'Hurley.

 

Music has been a staple of various Scooby-Doo series and films over the years and this music centric entry features four songs that are performed as part of the talent competition and range from the silly "Homewrecker" to the romantic "I Love You," which is one of the songs performed by Fred and Daphne and serves to further their ongoing would be romance. The animation is vibrant and colorful and the adventure is classic Scooby-Doo, complete with a variety of suspects and several red herrings. There are also familiar nods to the history of the series with the usual tongue in cheek delivery.

Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright is now available from Warner Home Video in a Blu-ray + DVD + Ultraviolet Combo Pack.

 

For additional information go here.

 

Watch a clip from Scooby-Doo! Stage Fright below.

 

Nielsen Ratings for the Week of August 12, 2013: CBS Continues to Dominate

Ratings for the week of August 12, 2013 (courtesy of Nielsen Media Research)

Total Average Viewers (in millions) by Network:

CBS - 5.37
ABC - 4.12
NBC - 4.06
FOX - 3.70
The CW - .96

Top 10 Shows (viewers in millions):

1. Under the Dome (CBS) - 10.36
2. America's Got Talent (NBC-Wednesday) - 9.51
3. America's Got Talent (NBC-Tuesday) - 8.79
4. CMA Music Festival (ABC) (s) - 8.30
5. NCIS (CBS) (r) - 8.09
6. 60 Minutes (CBS) (r) - 7.43
7. The Big Bang Theory (CBS) (r) - 6.71
8. Unforgettable (CBS) - 6.57
9. Big Brother 15 (CBS-Sunday) - 6.48
10. NFL on FOX Preseason 2 (FOX) (s) - 6.47

(r) = Repeat
(s) = Special

New in Theaters: "Kick-Ass 2" Starring Aaron Johnson and Chloë Grace Moretz

Not having watched the original Kick-Ass, I went into the screening of its sequel, Kick-Ass 2, with an open mind and only one expectation - that the performances from the mostly younger cast members would be serviceable. That expectation was met and, frankly, the performances are one of the few reasons to watch the film. The story centers around Dave Lizewski (Aaron Johnson) and Mindy Macready (Chloë Grace Moretz), two high school teenagers who also happen to be super heroes/vigilantes known as Kick-Ass and Hit Girl, respectively. After a brief retirement, Dave is back in the game and joins a team of "everyday" heroes called Justice Forever, led by Colonel Stars and Stripes (Jim Carrey). However, their combined strength may not be enough to defeat Chris D'Amico, who becomes a super villain (whose name is rather vulgar and sounds like Mother Focker) after accidentally killing his mother. Chris forms his own team, which includes a seemingly unstoppable Mother Russia (Olga Kurkulina).

Meanwhile, Mindy's father, Marcus (Morris Chestnut), realizes that she is still acting as a super hero and makes her promise to quit, which she does. She tries to lead a normal life by making new friends at school and thinks about dating. However, after being embarrassed by her new "friends," Mindy seeks revenge, which gets her suspended. Shortly thereafter, someone close to Dave is targeted and killed by Chris's team, who then attack Dave, Mindy and their friends at the funeral. This prompts Mindy to once again become Hit Girl and join forces with the other so-called heroes to take down the villains in an extremely violent clash.

As a life long fan of the superhero genre, I appreciated the comedic take on the subject matter, from the obvious comments about the form fitting outfits, especially the ones worn by the males, to the appropriately over the top performance by Christopher Mintz-Plasse, as the evil villain. In addition, Aaron Johnson's low key, but confident, performance is impressive, as is Chloë Grace Moretz, who is formidable for her age and size. The youngsters elevate the material, but not nearly enough for me to recommend the film. While some viewers may find the violence troubling, I found it hard to take seriously in a film such as this one, when tongues are planted firmly in cheeks. However, I hope parents/guardians would not allow younger children to see Kick-Ass 2, which more than earns its "R" rating. Finally, the gross out gags are completely unnecessary and do not look remotely realistic. They serve only to diminish what little the film has going for it. With that being said, it appears that a third installment may be on the way, pending box office approval.

Director/Screenwriter - Jeff Wadlow

Hardcover Spotlight: "The Ocean at the End of the Lane" by Neil Gaiman

Short and sweet. In less than 200 pages, acclaimed author Neil Gaiman has crafted another memorable story featuring elements of the fantastic that are weaved into the reality (or perceived reality) of childhood and long forgotten memories. Indeed, memories are fleeting and are sometimes blocked by our subconscious mind if they are too painful to deal with. But what if there was another explanation for those missing memories or the ones that seem to ebb and flow, seemingly at will. Could there be supernatural elements at work in our lives? They certainly are present in Gaiman's thoughtful and descriptive latest effort The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

The story centers around an unnamed middle-aged protagonist who ventures to his childhood home, in Sussex, England, for a funeral. The visit brings back many memories that have been seemingly absent for many years and speak of a bizarre and frightening adventure that he experienced as a child. The majority of the story is set in the distant past, when the youngster encounters malevolent forces that threaten his life. However, with the help of a local family, the Hempstocks, he is well protected, but not completely immune to the darkness. The youngster experiences the death of his beloved kitten, the suicide of a man who was staying with his family and the possible death of a young friend. That is a great deal of trauma for any child to experience in the short term, but he is also exposed to a battle between good and evil and is caught in the middle of a struggle that threatens to take his life because of his direct link to one of the antagonists.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane features mature themes, including child abuse, infidelity, mortality and considerable violence. Of course, readers familiar with Gaiman understand that he does not shy away from the dark side of life (or death), but there is a sense of hope that the protagonist will somehow find the strength to overcome his situation. Children are resilient, usually more so than adults, so perhaps it is fitting to tell the story through the eyes and mind of a youngster who has no choice but to mature rapidly when his world is turned upside down and his stability is threatened.

The author also relays an interesting suggestion about the necessity of men in certain households, which gave me pause while reading this vividly descriptive and fascinating book. As descriptive as Gaiman's prose is, some details are left out, perhaps on purpose. I suspect he understands and respects the intelligence of his audience to fill in the gaps with their own creativity. Of course, using your imagination should not relegated to those of a similar age as the young protagonist, but sometimes adults seem to lose their playfulness and imagination along the way. Perhaps an underlying purpose here is to encourage readers to uncover their own memories of childhood and relearn how to use their imagination and be children again, if only for a brief time. In any event, The Ocean at the End of the Lane is another outstanding effort from the sublime Neil Gaiman.

Weekend Box Office Estimates: Lee Daniels' "The Butler" is Number One

As the summer movie season draws to a close, many films are under performing, including The Smurfs 2 and Elysium. Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters is also off to a slow start, but its overseas take is expected to be much greater, similar to the first installment, Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief. Even newly released films are having a tough time, including Jobs, which opened with under $7 million, and Paranoia, which failed to crack the top ten. However, Lee Daniels' The Butler (pictured above) is off to a strong start and captured the top spot, with an estimated $25 million. In addition, the comedy We're the Millers is nearing the $70 million mark in its second week of release and only dropped about 30% from its debut, making it very profitable for Warner Bros. and New Line.

Here are the Top Ten Weekend films, according to early estimates (numbers are in millions):

 1. Lee Daniels' The Butler - $25.0 (Weinstein Company)

2. We're the Millers - $17.8 (Warner Bros./New Line)

3. Elysium - $13.6 (Sony/TriStar)

4. Kick-Ass 2 - $13.6 (Universal)

5. Planes - $13.1 (Disney)

6. Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters - $8.4 (Fox)

7. Jobs - $6.7 (Open Road)

8. 2 Guns - $5.6 (Universal)

9. The Smurfs 2 - $4.6 (Sony/Columbia)

10. The Wolverine - $4.4 (Fox)

DVD Recommendation: "The Company You Keep" Starring Robert Redford

Robert Redford directs and stars in a movie tailored for an adult audience in The Company You Keep. The character driven and extremely well acted film features a superb cast and tells the story of former dissidents from the Vietnam war era, who may now have to pay for their crimes, which include murder. Attorney Jim Grant belonged to the group, although he switched identities years earlier. However, you never know when the past may come back to haunt you and soon Jim finds himself in an unsettling situation after the arrest of one of his former cohorts, Sharon Solarz (Susan Sarandon). Making things more difficult is an eager young reporter, Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf), who works for (gasp!) a print newspaper and is determined to learn more about their organization, known as The Weather Underground.

Jim is spooked, so he takes precautions to protect his young daughter, Isabel (Jackie Evancho), since the child's mother passed away unexpectedly not too long ago. He relies on his brother, Daniel (Chris Cooper), for help to shield her from the mess that his life is about to become and he signs over custody rights, so that Isabel can stay with Daniel. Jim then goes on the run and visits many old friends from the past, some are happy to see him, others are not. His goal is to locate a former lover, Mimi Lurie (Julie Christie), who can exonerate him, but she may not be willing to help. In the meantime, Shepard is beginning to unravel the mystery and may just be able to help Jim, instead of leading the police to his doorstep.

Robert Redford has assembled an amazing group of actors, including Richard Jenkins, Brendan Gleeson and Nick Nolte. They all play important roles in the engrossing screenplay by Lem Dobbs and even though screen time is limited for some of them, including Susan Sarandon, they all make the most of it. Clearly, The Company You Keep is aimed for a mature audience, some of whom may remember the rebellion that occurred throughout the decade of the 1960s and beyond and may be able to relate to the characters on some level. Others, like myself, will find enjoyment in seeing so many familiar and talented faces from start to finish. I felt like I was at a reunion of sorts, even though I did not really know anyone. The Company You Keep is an underrated gem that features not only a nod to the past, but also showcases young talent, including Brit Marling, Anna Kendrick and the aforementioned Shia LaBeouf, who delivers a strong performance as a nosy, but well meaning, reporter. If you missed this one in theaters, rent or stream it on DVD.

HOWL-O-SCR​EAM at Busch Gardens Returns With A TERROR-IFF​IC Plot

WILLIAMSBURG (August 15, 2013) – With less than a month to go until Howl-O-Scream® begins another haunting season, Busch Gardens® is lifting the veil and revealing the frightening tricks and treats guests will experience if they’re brave enough to enter the park after dark.

Starting Friday the thirteenth of September, Busch Gardens’ charming European villages are transformed – taken over by demons and creatures of unspeakable horror – into four Terror-tories™. With the introduction of Terror-tories, transformed lands where spirits and fiends walk amongst the living, Busch Gardens has introduced a whole new immersive aspect to Howl-O-Scream. France, Italy, Germany and England will be transformed into an over-the-top thematic experience that transports guests to another time and place full of startles and frights.

Chart a course through the haunted waters in Italy, flee the flames of burning France, avoid becoming a vampire’s dinner in Germany or hunt for Jack the Ripper in London’s East End. In this immersive experience, guests are the main characters whose fates are linked to the creatures roaming through the dark side of the gardens. Pirates, demons, vampires and Jack the Ripper himself await, so beware or become their latest victim.

Keep a weather-eye open in Cut Throat Cove™, Howl-O-Scream’s newest haunted house where bone-chilling surprises lurk at every turn and mutiny is afoot in this pirate-themed attraction.

Looking for a little liquid courage? Stop by Demon Drinks, Pirate Baarrrrgh™, Open CASKet™ and the Inoculation Station for drinks that are frightfully good. Or reserve a spot at one of three immersive dining experiences at Blood Banquet™, Fright Feast™ and Buccaneer Galley. Then check out one of Howl-O-Scream’s signature shows. Night Beats™, Dig It Up! and Fiends are all returning to entertain and terrify audiences for the 2013 season.

Parents and guardians of young children should heed this warning. At the stroke of 6 p.m., the ghouls and haunts come out to play and Busch Gardens becomes a seriously scary place. Guests are advised to consider the park’s elevated scare factor when deciding to visit Busch Gardens with young children during Howl-O-Scream.

Howl-O-Scream begins Sept. 13 and continues to terrify weekends through Oct. 27. For more information and a complete operating schedule, visit www.howloscream.com/va or call (800) 343-7946.



Howl-O-Scream® is an immersive experience that transforms Busch Gardens® into a much darker place. The descriptions below provide additional insight into Howl-O-Scream’s new immersive Terror-tories™, thematic shows, dining experiences and haunted houses.

NEW Terror-tories™

·         Ripper Row® (England): Things are looking a bit unsettling in England; a murderer is on the loose plucking unsuspecting victims from the city streets to satisfy his grizzly curiosity. No one knows what Jack the Ripper looks like or who he will strike next. Authorities hunt furiously among the crowds in search of the killer nabbing anyone who looks at all suspicious. Keep your head down and your wits about you or you might not make it out alive.
 
·         Vampire Point™ (Germany): Even vampires need a vacation once in a while and Vampire Point™ is the perfect destination for bloodsuckers. Watch your step and your neck or you might end up the main course. Dawn is hours away, your last salvation lies in escaping the vampire village before the inhabitants sink their fangs into you.

 

·         Demon Street™ (France): Paris is burning. Can you escape before the city is engulfed in flame? Let the smoldering ruins light your way, but beware, fiery fiends lurk around every corner ready to put you on the coals. The smell of a burning inferno fills the air and rumor has it unsuspecting souls will be roasted on a spit. It’s about to get very hot in Paris, stay cool or you may find yourself going up in smoke.

 

·         Ports of Skull™ (Italy): The Jolly Roger has risen over a ship graveyard filled with lost souls doomed to haunt the vessels they once sailed. Chart your course through Cut Throat Cove™ or cozy up to the Pirate Baarrrgh™ for a swill ‘o the grog, but keep a weather eye open or you may find yourself keel-hauled by cut-throat buccaneers.

 

Haunted Houses

·         NEW Cut Throat Cove™: Heed the warning: Abandon hope all ye who enter. Cut Throat Cove™ is the haven for bloodthirsty, dangerous rogues – where the scurvy dogs, buccaneers and scoundrels go for shelter. Proceed with caution. Alas, something has gone terribly wrong. Within this macabre market, the pirates have been slaughtered and mutiny is afoot. The way out lies with the buried treasure and the blood-curdling screams you hear just might be your own.
 

·         Catacombs: Through a ruined cemetery filled with statues lies a tunnel that leads to an underground city. Its history is more terrifying than that of France’s worst revolutions. Deep within these tunnels lie mile after mile of bones—the final resting place for those who are buried here. But all is not as quiet as it appears. As guests venture forth into the dank, dripping corridors of rat infested remains, the voices of the dead begin to speak, and some have taken shape.

·         Bitten: Suspicion, darkness and mind-numbing fear surround the “Bitten” house which is set in Eastern Europe in the late 1800s. Full of legends and lore of vampires and the undead that preyed on the innocent, this manor sits by the road upon which all travelers must pass but few return.

 

·         13: Your Number’s Up: For 13 long years, the dark tower was locked away from the world—existing only in the nightmares of those who had dared to experience Howl-O-Scream’s first and most terrifying maze. But now the seal has been broken. The tower is open once more and on the 13th floor, your darkest phobias and fears lurk in the shadows. Are you brave enough to face them or is your number up?

 

·         Dead Line: Deep underground, construction of the newest line of the Pompeii Metro was moving smoothly until an ancient pipe was accidentally struck. At first, it seemed like steam. Then the mist became thicker, more sinister. Now the strange gas is leaking quickly, and everyone trapped inside is infected. The difficult decision was made to cut off all communication to the outside world. The Dead Line is off the grid.

 

·         Root of All Evil™: The seeds of evil have been sown. Venture if you dare into a decrepit greenhouse. Experiments here have not gone as planned and evil has taken control. Botanists, landscapers and staff all poisoned by the very plants they created. In this maze of foliage, you are ripe for the pickings.

 

Dines

·         NEW Blood Banquet™: Visit Count Vlad’s hotel and meet a variety of paranormal characters for an all-new interactive dining experience. This one-of-a-kind spooky atmosphere paired with unexpected twists and turns offers guests the chance to sink their teeth into a whole new way of dining. With an eclectic menu, haunting music and an atmosphere to die for, Blood Banquet™ is otherworldly.

·         NEW Fright Feast™: The laboratory lights are on and the electricity is crackling. Dine with the surgeon, his assistant and their kooky monster at Freakenstonia Castle. The slab is just as hot as the food and the drinks are flowing faster than an I.V. drip in this riveting, entertaining and live-action experience.

 

·         NEW Buccaneer Galley: Arrgh matey!  The galley cooks have prepared a buffet fit for a buccaneer. Join the lovely hostess as she and her cutthroat crew serves up a captain's feast – pirate buffet-style.

 

Bars

·         NEW Demon Drinks: On Demon Street™, everything is sizzling. Join the club, beat the heat and throw back a cold one. The Demon Drinks’ DJ and his too-hot-to-handle hosts are happy to serve guests as they fan the flames of fun.

 

·         NEW Pirate Baarrrgh™: Ahoy scallywags, when the gale winds blow through the creaking yardarm, it's time for dead men to tell tall tales at Pirate Baarrrgh™. Grab a swill o’ the grog stolen from Davy Jones’ locker and mingle with the likes of Peg Leg Pete, Billy Bones and Blackbeard.
 
·         Inoculation Station: No appointments necessary for the shot of a lifetime with your favorite fiends in pink. Get your prescription filled – the famous test tube shot and photo op are always in stock.

 

·         Open CASKet™: The dead are alive and so is the fun at the Open CASKet™ bar. Hang around, watch your neck and toss back a specialty libation served by the coolest vampires this side of the Rhine River.
 

Shows

·         Dig It Up!: Relics long forgotten and buried in the vaults of the Museo di San Marco have recently been dug up, dusted off and brought to life through song. Cavemen, Egyptians, Romans, and even an alien encounter make their musical debut in this eclectic energy packed anything goes at Halloween show
 
·         Fiends: The wacky doctor and his manic nurses are creating the ultimate Fiend, and there’s not a bad seat in the lab. The voltage is high, and so is the fun as they sing, dance and bring you along on the operation of a lifetime.

 

·         Night Beats™: Things that go bump in the night sing, dance and transport you on a musical journey. From the devilish sounds of the roaring '20s to vamping it up with the music of today, this show is filled with dazzling dance numbers, sizzling singers and a barely live band that will leave your heart … beating.

Classic Monsters Wave 2 Blu-ray: "Dracula," "Frankenstein," "The Bride of Frankenstein" and "The Wolf Man"

The following Blu-ray releases are scheduled to drop on September 17 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment

Synopsis: The original Dracula, starring Bela Lugosi, launched the Hollywood horror genre and defined the iconic look and frightening character of the famed vampire. Towering ominously among the shadows of the Carpathian Mountains, Castle Dracula strikes fear in the hearts of the Transylvanian villagers below. After a naive real estate agent succumbs to the will of Count Dracula, the two head to London where the vampire hopes to stroll among respectable society by day and search for potential victims by night. The inspiration for hundreds of subsequent remakes and adaptations, this classic film directed by Tod Browning is the signature adaptation of Bram Stoker’s story with its eerie passion, shadowy atmosphere and thrilling cinematography.

Synopsis: An unforgettable masterpiece, the original Frankenstein stars Boris Karloff as the screen’s most tragic and iconic monster in what many consider to be the greatest horror film ever made. Tampering with life and death, Dr. Frankenstein (Colin Clive) pieces together salvaged body parts to bring a human monster to life. The mad scientist’s dreams are shattered by his creation’s violent rage as the monster awakens to a world in which he is unwelcome. Featuring groundbreaking makeup by Jack Pierce, director James Whale’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s masterpiece novel blends themes of horror, isolation and compassion, and remains one of the most shocking movies of all time.

Synopsis: In one of the most popular horror films of all time, The Bride of Frankenstein, Boris Karloff reprises his role as the silver screen’s most misunderstood monster who now longs for a mate. Continuing exactly where the original left off, the critically acclaimed sequel introduces Dr. Pretorius (Ernest Thesiger) as a deranged scientist who forces Dr. Frankenstein (Colin Clive) to help him create a companion for the monster. Once again directed by James Whale and adapted from Mary Shelley’s classic novel, the sequel features outstanding makeup and special effects, instantly making the Bride of Frankenstein (Elsa Lanchester) one of the most recognizable monsters of all time.

Synopsis: “Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright." In 1941, The Wolf Man introduced the world to a new Universal movie monster and the mythology of the werewolf was redefined forever. Featuring a heartbreaking performance by Lon Chaney Jr. and groundbreaking make-up by Jack Pierce, this story of a cursed man who transforms into a deadly werewolf when the moon is full has not only become a masterpiece of the horror genre, but of all time.

Nielsen Ratings for the Week of August 5, 2013: "Under the Dome" Continues to Dominate

Ratings for the week of August 5, 2013 (courtesy of Nielsen Media Research)

Total Average Viewers (in millions) by Network:

CBS - 5.51
NBC - 4.18
ABC - 4.17
FOX - 2.56
The CW - .94

Top 10 Shows (viewers in millions):

1. Under the Dome (CBS) - 10.42
2. America's Got Talent (NBC-Wednesday) - 10.26
3. America's Got Talent (NBC-Tuesday) - 9.39 
4. The Bachelorette (ABC) - 8.94
5. 60 Minutes (CBS) (r) - 8.62
6. The Bachelorette: After the Final Rose (ABC) (s) - 8.31
7. NCIS (CBS) (r) - 7.96
8. Big Brother 15 (CBS-Sunday) - 7.14
9. Unforgettable (CBS) - 6.88
10. Big Brother 15 (CBS-Thursday) - 6.61

(r) = Repeat
(s) = Special

Singer-Songwriter Sheila Swift To Release Her Much Anticipated EP "The Striving Is Over"

Photo and information courtesy of Miles High Productions.

"The Striving is Over" is now available on iTunes

August 13, 2013 (Los Angeles, CA): Six years after her highly praised album, "The Shape of Things," the release of two singles, and a recent 5-week tour in Europe, Sheila Swift is ready to release her much anticipated EP, "The Striving is Over." In this new EP, Sheila proves that she is not just a one trick pony coming from "Daisy", but a well-rounded, all natural musical artist.

 

"The Striving is Over" is Sheila Swift's most personal album yet. The EP presents three original tracks by Swift, written throughout her life, that have been long waiting to be released. The musically talented songwriter uncovers herself in this album, presenting songs inspired during personal life experiences. In her EP, each track delivers its own uplifting positive message.

 

The songs on the album cover themes such as tension in marital life, letting go of the past and moving forward, while remembering the good things in life and reconnecting to one's own roots. Sheila Swift proves her artistic creativity by adding a natural flow in the order of tracks in "The Striving is Over." Track after track, the three song EP tells a story. From the first track to the last, the emotional and powerful lyrics that Sheila's vocals give life to depict defining moments for her.

 

In "Stay," the beautiful, acoustic guitar solos build while harmonizing with Swift's powerful vocals. There is no doubt her southern roots are portrayed in this EP. Swift intertwines a touch of arousing country with rock into the other tracks, "Let Go" and "Home." It is in both of those tracks where Swift releases positive and inspiring messages to her listeners. Lyrics such as "you got to let it go," encourages moving forward in life. In addition, Sheila depicts fond memories of the south in "Home," a reminiscence of her life growing up in the south, with "take me home." Each track, with its very own personal touch and artistic expression, portrays Sheila's love for music and life.

 

Following "The Striving is Over", Sheila Swift has more musical endeavors up her sleeve with a vinyl album release scheduled by the end of the year.

 

Sheila Swift has evolved into a fully-fledged rock singer, largely leaving behind the pop-rock leanings of her previous work in favor of a more pure rock sound which shines through on the new material. Sheila played at the South By Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas, as well as a showcase at House of Blues Houston and has finished a 5 week European tour in Germany and the Netherlands, with guitarist Ben Jarrad, where ecstatic fans described her as a mix of Gwen Stefani and Neil Young. A multi-talented artist, Sheila also incorporates her passion for the arts in her music.

"Simpsons Comics Colossal Compendium: Volume One" by Matt Groening

The Simpsons are back in another trade paperback that collects material from various comic book releases focusing on the first family of Springfield. Simpsons Comics Colossal Compendium: Volume One (Harper Design), by Matt Groening, features a strong emphasis on gaming in several short stories, including a nod to World of Warcraft. The hi-jinks kick off with a two part story centered around a visit to the Springfield Fair, titled "Midday on the Midway," which finds Bart using his powers of manipulation to trick the adults around him, while Homer ends up with a pumpkin on his head. In other words, it appears to be business as usual for the dysfunctional family.

The most amusing short story featured here is "How Sweet it Ain't," which focuses on how to improve the quality of food choices in school cafeterias. Of course, the kids want what is bad for them, but that does not stop European chef Darcy Michael from trying to change their habits. However, Bart has a plan to outwit Darcy and enlists Homer in his mission to eat as much junk food as he wants to, while earning money in the process. Other stories center around Radioactive Man, an alternate reality, and a tribute, of sorts, to the titular family in "The Simpsons Save the World."

This 176 page effort is larger than previous collected Simpsons releases and includes two page interlude stories featuring The Spectacular Spider-Pig, among other characters. There is more of an emphasis on Bart and Homer in the various stories, but Lisa, Maggie and Marge all play important roles, too. Who else can keep the guys in line? The typical sights gags, topical humor and laugh out loud moments, which are hallmarks of the television series, are an integral part of this collection. As a result, this effort will likely appeal to established fans of The Simpsons, but is also accessible to new readers. Finally, the Simpsons Comics Colossal Compendium: Volume One also includes a papercraft project, featuring The Android's Dungeon & Baseball Card Shop, with step by step instructions on how to build a 3D replica of the building. Future Simpsons volumes will include additional Springfield landmarks that will allow readers to build their own town.