Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
“Training Day” is one of the best urban crime films thanks to excellent performances by Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke and an excellent soundtrack of Los Angeles rap. Warner Bros. have given the film a strong 4K transfer and excellent Atmos track.
Scream Factory has given Don Coscarelli’s “Bubba-Ho-Tep” a 4K UHD release. It is the only film that features Bruce Campbell as Elvis alongside Ossie Davis as JFK battling a mummy that preys on the elderly.
“Cloverfield” was destined to be a cult film. Its experimental narrative techniques set it apart from other creature features and other films in general. Paramount’s handsome steelbook edition brings the best out of the film in 4K.
“Top Gun: Maverick” gave theatrical audiences a reason to take a breath and eat some popcorn. It is a satisfying sequel and a loving tribute to Tony Scott. “Maverick” is our favorite film from 2022.
“A Christmas Story” is one of the best Christmas films, but it also is an exceptionally rendered coming-of-age film as well. Bob Clark’s classic film has been given an excellent 4K UHD upgrade from Warner Bros.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is the best holiday comedy ever made. Chevy Chase was never better than as Clark Griswold, and John Hughes’s script is exceptional. Warner Bros. has given the film a 4K release.
“Casablanca” is an emotionally rewarding and thrilling war time classic that deserves all the acclaim that has been heaped on it since its initial theatrical release. The 4K UHD from Warner Bros. earns our very highest recommendation!
“Pulp Fiction” is considered by many to be Tarantino’s greatest film. It is certainly his most influential and one of the definitive films of the independent movement of the Nineties.
“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2” flies in the face of convention to deliver one of the most over-the-top sequels ever made.
“The Funhouse” is a well made horror film from Tobe Hooper that is set apart by strong production design, its carnival setting, and Andrew Laszlo’s cinematography. Shout! Factory’s 4K UHD release is excellent.
