Friday, October 28, 2016

Sony Pictures Classics to Release Taylor Hackford's "The Comedian" with Rober DeNiro

Sony Pictures Classics announced recently that they have acquired North American rights to Academy Award winner Taylor Hackford's comedy, THE COMEDIAN. Written by Art Linson, THE COMEDIAN stars Academy Award winner Robert De Niro, Leslie Mann, Edie Falco, Harvey Keitel, Danny DeVito, Patti LuPone and Veronica Ferres. The film will have an awards qualifying run in 2016 and open officially in 2017.

THE COMEDIAN is produced by Hackford, Cinelou's Mark Canton and Courtney Solomon, as well as Linson Entertainment's Art Linson and John Linson. The film is executive produced by Cinelou's Scott Karol, the Fyzz Facility's Wayne Marc Godfrey and Robert Jones, Mad Riot Entertainment's Mark Axelowitz and Lawrence Smith, as well as Iain Abrahams, Peter Sobiloff, Dennis Pelino and Fredy Bush.

An aging comic icon, Jackie (Robert De Niro) has seen better days. Despite his efforts to reinvent himself and his comic genius, the audience only wants to know him as the former television character he once played. Already a strain on his younger brother (Danny DeVito) and his wife (Patti LuPone), Jackie is forced to serve out a sentence doing community service for accosting an audience member. While there, he meets Harmony (Leslie Mann), the daughter of a sleazy Florida real estate mogul (Harvey Keitel), and the two find inspiration in one another resulting in surprising consequences.

Thursday, October 27, 2016

In a Valley of Violence Rides in on DVD/BD on December 27

A mysterious drifter enters a forgotten town in the edgy action film, In a Valley of Violence, available on Blu-ray and DVD on December 27, 2016 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. From acclaimed director, Ti West (The Sacrament, The Innkeepers), and famed producer Jason Blum (Insidious, The Visit), the film stars Academy Award nominees; John Travolta (The People v. O.J. Simpson, Criminal Activities) and Ethan Hawke (Sinister 2, Maggie's Plan). The In a Valley of Violence Blu-ray and DVD include bonus content that takes viewers on a wild ride behind the scenes with an exciting inside look at the making of the film.

Ethan Hawke stars as Paul, a lone drifter who wanders into the forgotten town of Denton, Texas – dubbed by locals as the "valley of violence". There, he picks a fight with the wrong man, Gilly (James Ransone), the troublemaking son of the town's unforgiving Marshal (John Travolta).  As tensions arise between Paul and Gilly, an inevitable act of violence starts a disastrous chain reaction that quickly drags the whole town into the bloody crosshairs of revenge.  Only the world-weary Marshal struggles to stop the violent hysteria, but after a gruesome discovery about Paul's past...there's no stopping the escalation.

Kane Brown Sets December 2 "Kane Brown" Album Release

After previewing the news for fans recently, RCA Nashville/Zone 4 breakout recording artist Kane Brown today announced the release date, cover art, and track listing for his highly-anticipated debut album, out December 2nd. The self-titled album marks the first full length LP for the “viral sensation” [Noisey] and Brown’s next project since signing with RCA Nashville in January 2016.

Noted for “breaking country’s rules” [Billboard] and as “an artist to pay attention to” [Rolling Stone Country] Brown has been recognized as an “Artist To Watch” by Billboard, HITS and Huffington Post, and was recently selected to Ticketmaster’s first ever New Music Favorites series. Brown’s self-released EP Chapter 1, debuted in March 2016 at No. 3 on the Billboard Country albums chart, No. 9 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums all genre chart, and hit No. 1 on the iTunes Country Albums and iTunes Overall Albums charts, all prior to radio air play. His breakout co-penned single “Used To Love You Sober” was recently certified GOLD by the RIAA and his current single “Thunder In The Rain” marks Brown’s fifth song to be propelled to No. 1 on the iTunes Country Charts, prior to any radio air play, by his dedicated fan base.

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Disney's MOANA Motion Picture Soundtrack news update

Set for release on November 18, the Moana original motion picture soundtrack features seven original songs and a full original score, plus two reprises as well as two end-credit versions of songs from the film. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 23, 2016.

The diverse and dynamic team behind the film’s inspired music includes Tony- and Grammy-winning songwriter/composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, who counts among his credits Broadway’s Pulitzer Prize-winning and multiple Tony-winning “Hamilton” and the Tony-winning “In the Heights.” The creative team also includes three-time Grammy-winning composer Mark Mancina (“Speed,” “Tarzan” and the Oscar-winning “Training Day”) and Opetaia Foa‘i, the founder and lead singer of Te Vaka, a winner of numerous world music awards.

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Official Worldwide Box Office Results for Weekend of October 23, 2016

The top 12 domestic USA weekend box office estimates, listed in descending order, per data collected as of Sunday, October 23, are below.
 
1. Tyler Perry's Boo! A Madea Halloween - Lionsgate - $27.6M
2. Jack Reacher: Never Go Back - Paramount - $23.0M
3. Ouija: Origin Of Evil - Universal - $14.1M
4. Accountant, The - Warner Bros. - $14.0M
5. Girl On The Train, The - Universal - $7.3M
6. Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children - 20th Century Fox - $6.0M
7. Keeping Up With The Joneses - 20th Century Fox - $5.6M
8. Kevin Hart: What Now? - Universal - $4.1M
9. Storks - Warner Bros. - $4.1M
10. Deepwater Horizon - Lionsgate - $3.6M
11. Magnificent Seven, The - Sony - $2.4M
12. Middle School:The Worst Years Of My Life - Lionsgate - $2.3M

"American Masters — Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You" Premieres 10/25, on DVD/BD Same Day

First Documentary About Legendary Showrunner, American Masters -- Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You, Premieres Nationwide Tuesday, October 25 on PBS Available same day on Blu-ray, DVD via PBS Distribution

Features Norman Lear, George Clooney, Jon Stewart, Amy Poehler, Mel Brooks, Lena Dunham, Carl and Rob Reiner, Russell Simmons and others.  Largely responsible for the explosion of bold American television in the 1970s, writer/producer Norman Lear's name is synonymous with the sitcom. The first documentary about the 94-year-old television legend, American Masters — Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You, premieres nationwide Tuesday, October 25 at 9 pm on PBS (check local listings). PBS Distribution will release the film on Blu-ray, DVD
the same day with additional bonus features.

With unprecedented access to Lear, his work and his massive personal archives, American Masters — Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You combines stories from his turbulent childhood and early career with his groundbreaking TV success (All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Good Times, Maude) and social activism. The documentary also features colorful stories from Lear's family, friends and collaborators, including John Amos, George Clooney, Alan Horn, Bill Moyers, Rob Reiner, Phil Rosenthal and Russell Simmons, as well as cinéma vérité moments with Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Jon Stewart, Amy Poehler and Lena Dunham Breaking down the fourth wall to create an evocative collage where past and present intermingle, Academy Award-nominated filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady (Jesus Camp, 12th & Delaware, DETROPIA for Independent Lens) reveal a psychologically rich man whose extraordinary contributions emerge from both his personal story and his own self-professed childlike view of the world. Just Another Version of You traces how a poor Jewish kid from Connecticut started writing for The Colgate Comedy Hour with Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, created All in the Family and became one of TV's most successful showrunners. All character-driven, with theatrical sets and live audiences, Lear's TV series changed not only the face of national television but the content of national discourse. Bringing provocative subjects like war, poverty and prejudice to 120 million viewers every week, Lear proved that social change was possible through an unlikely prism – laughter – and created some of the greatest moments in television history.
 

"I Am Bolt" Dashes to DVD on December 6

In cinemas around the world on November 28, I AM BOLT will give audiences a unique portrait of I AM BOLT the world's fastest man, Usain Bolt. With unprecedented access to the Olympic and sporting legend as he trains, travels, races and relaxes, the film also spotlights Bolt's other roles as best friend, teammate and son and will be available on DVD on December 6, 2016 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

With unparalleled access to all facets of his life on and off track, audiences will see for the very first time what being Usain Bolt is really like – from his grueling training schedule, major setbacks and challenges he faces in order to achieve his dreams on the global stage to his downtime with friends and family.

Featuring archive footage from Bolt's youth, in-depth interviews with those closest to him – his parents, best friends, agent, coach and fellow athletes – and fascinating footage shot by the man himself over a legacy-defining period in his career and life, I AM BOLT offers an intimate portrayal of a globally adored icon.

Sunday, October 23, 2016

El Alma de Puerto Rico by Ecos de Borinquen CD Released by Smithsonian Folkways

With El Alma de Puerto Rico (the soul of Puerto Rico), the Grammy, and Latin Grammy-nominated ensemble Ecos de Borinquen offers up its second Smithsonian Folkways album that is overflowing with pride in the island’s jíbaro creole folk traditions. The soulful, signature sounds of Miguel Santiago Diaz’s sung poetry in the ten-line décima verse form are cradled in the progressive instrumental arrangements by Ramón Vásquez Lamboy for two cuatro guitars, six-stringed guitar, güiro rasp, and bongo. The crystal-clear voice of Yezenia Cruz, Santiago’s disciple, adds sonoral dimension to this timeless yet contemporary rendition of deep Puerto Rican tradition. 59 minutes, 40-page booklet with bilingual notes.

The album is the 46th in the Smithsonian Folkways Tradiciones/Traditions Series of Latino music albums, produced with support from the Smithsonian Latino Center.

Friday, October 21, 2016

A MAN CALLED OVE Arrives on DVD/BD on December 27

Sweden’s official entry for the best foreign language film at the 89th Academy Awards, A  MAN CALLED OVE arrives on DVD, Blu-ray on December 27, 2016 (preorder November 22, 2016) by Music Box Films Home     Entertainment. Based on the international best-selling novel by Fredrik Backman, A MAN CALLED OVE is the film adaptation written and directed by Hannes Holm, which tells the story of an ill-tempered, easily-provoked old man whose world is shaken in ways he never would have imagined.
A MAN CALLED OVE (official trailer below) is one of Sweden’s most successful domestic films of all time and will be one of top grossing foreign language art house releases in the US this year with over 200 engagements in all major markets and a projected box office of nearly $2 million. A MAN CALLED OVE is also one of the best reviewed films of the year with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 92%.

With his irresistible adaptation and sterling direction, filmmaker Holm finds the beating heart of his source material, while Swedish star Rolf Lassgård, whose performance won him the Best Actor Award at the 2016 Seattle International Film Festival, affectingly embodies the lovable curmudgeon Ove.

Thursday, October 20, 2016

"Kicks" Jumps in on DVD/BD on December 6

A boy and his two friends venture into the tough streets of East Oakland to retrieve a pair of stolen sneakers in the edgy drama Kicks.  The gritty tale from Focus World, available now on Digital HD and On Demand, comes to Blu-ray and DVD on December 6, 2016 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. The Blu-ray and DVD feature bonus content, including interviews with the cast as well as an official photo gallery that gives viewers an in-depth look inside the film's unique style – which earned it the Best Cinematography award at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival – and a deeper understanding of the story.

15-year-old Brandon (Jahking Guillory) longs for a pair of the freshest sneakers that money can buy – to help him escape the reality of being poor and picked on by everyone. Working hard to finally get the Kicks shoes, he finds they have made him a target after they are promptly snatched by a local hood. Brandon and his two best friends embark on a dangerous and exciting journey where nothing is as simple as it seems in this unique and memorable coming-of-age story. The cast includes Mahershala Ali (Marvel's Luke Cage).        
        

The film will be available on Blu-ray and Digital HD with UltraViolet and DVD.
  • BLU-RAY unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6x the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound. 
  • DVD offers the flexibility and convenience of playing movies in more places, both at home and away.
  • DIGITAL HD with UltraViolet lets you watch movies anywhere, on any device. Users can instantly stream or download movies to watch on iPad, iPhone, Android, smart TVs, connected Blu-ray players, game consoles and more.
BONUS FEATURES ON BLU-RAY, DVD AND DIGITAL HD
  • Kicks: One-on-One – The cast discusses the story at the core of Kicks.
  • Photo Gallery
TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY:Street Date: December 6, 2016
Copyright: 2016 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Selection Number: 62174463
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 2.40:1
Rating: Rated R for violence, drug/alcohol use and language throughout, and sexual content-involving teens
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles 
Sound: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1/Dolby Digital 2.0
Run Time: 1 Hour 27 Minutes
TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD:Street Date: December 6, 2016
Copyright: 2016 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Selection Number: 62174468
Layers: Dual
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Rating: Rated R for violence, drug/alcohol use and language throughout, and sexual content – involving teens
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles 
Sound: English Dolby Digital 5.1/Dolby Digital 2.0
Run Time: 1 Hour 27 Minutes


Chuck Berry, at 90, Announces a New Album

Chuck Berry, the artist who codified the sound, rhythm and language of rock and roll, celebrated his 90th birthday this week with the surprise announcement that he will release a new album; titled simply ‘CHUCK’,  in 2017 on Dualtone Records (an Entertainment One Company). Comprised primarily of new, original songs written, recorded and produced by the founding rock and roll legend, ‘CHUCK’ is Berry’s first new album in thirty-eight years. It was recorded in various studios around St. Louis, MO and features Berry’s longtime hometown backing group - including his children Charles Berry Jr. (guitar) and Ingrid Berry (harmonica), plus Jimmy Marsala (Berry’s bassist of forty years), Robert Lohr (piano), and Keith Robinson (drums) - which has supported him for over two decades on over two hundred residency shows at the famed Blueberry Hill club. More details about ‘CHUCK’ and other Berry-related events will be revealed in the coming weeks.

“This record is dedicated to my beloved Toddy,” said Berry, referring to his wife of 68 years, Themetta Berry. “My darlin’ I’m growing old! I’ve worked on this record for a long time. Now I can hang up my shoes!”

“What an honor to be part of this new music,” says Charles Berry Jr. “The St. Louis band, or as dad called us ‘The Blueberry Hill Band,’ fell right into the groove and followed his lead. These songs cover the spectrum from hard driving rockers to soulful thought provoking time capsules of a life's work.”

Elvis Costello Cancels Pittsburgh Concert

Elvis Costello has cancelled his November 1st concert
date at Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts in Pittsburgh, PA because of an ongoing strike by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Heinz Hall is the Orchestra's home venue and Pittsburgh is one of the locations of Baker & Taylor's AV  administrative operations.

Costello released the following statement:

"I regret to inform you that our "Imperial Bedroom & Other Chambers" concert at Heinz Hall cannot go ahead, as I am unwilling to cross an AFofM picket line during the current strike by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

I hope that the dispute will soon be settled honorably and amicably and that The Imposters and I will have the opportunity to perform at Heinz Hall before too long.

We send our apologies to ticket holders and all our friends in Pittsburgh with thanks for your understanding and support of live music wherever it is heard.

Respectfully. Elvis Costello."

Ticket holders will receive their refunds via point of purchase.

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Laura Cantrell Announces USA Dates to Promote "Laura Cantrell At the BBC" Release

Over the past 16 years, Laura Cantrell has been a familiar presence on the international Americana music scene. The Nashville-born, New York-based artist has developed a loyal audience at home and in the UK through consistent touring, and numerous media appearances including radio interviews and sessions for BBC Radio, most notably with Bob Harris and the late John Peel, who famously championed her debut album, Not The Tremblin’ Kind, and described it as, “My favourite album of the last ten years and possibly my life."

Her new release, Laura Cantrell At The BBC, out now, compiles the best of her UK radio performances from 2000-2005, including several previously unreleased songs, and traces the arc of Cantrell’s rise as an Americana artist on the airwaves of the venerable British Broadcasting Corporation.

Following tours of the U.K. in the first half of 2016 Cantrell has confirmed a run of U.S. dates including New York's Joe's Pub Oct 23.

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Bruno Mars' "24K Magic" Album Arrives on November 18

Critically-acclaimed international megastar Bruno Mars has unveiled today his first piece of solo music in nearly four years. Written and produced by Shampoo Press & Curl, “24K Magic” (pronounced twenty-four karat magic) sees Bruno bringing the bounce to his newest single, which is now available for streaming and download at all DSPs. The multi-GRAMMY-winning Mars has also announced his highly-anticipated third studio album - also dubbed 24K Magic - will arrive on November 18th.

“24k Magic” is accompanied by a brand new music video directed by Bruno Mars and longtime collaborator Cameron Duddy. The clip - complete with jet skis being ridden through the famous Fountains of Bellagio - can be viewed below from B&T.

The two-time Super Bowl Half Time Show veteran performer will return to SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE for his fourth appearance next Saturday, October 15th.

From the creator's of Gruffalo Comes "Stick Man" on November 8

Martin Freeman (“The Hobbit,” “Sherlock”) voices Stick Man, Hugh Bonneville (“Downton Abbey”)
voices Santa, and the story is narrated by Jennifer Saunders (“Absolutely Fabulous”). Also helping bring Donaldson’s alluring and bouncy rhymes to life in this heartwarming family treasure are Rob Brydon (“The Huntsman: Winter’s War”), Sally Hawkins (“Paddington”) and Russell Tovey (“Being Human”).

In addition to featuring this charming tale, the DVD includes a behind the scenes documentary about the transformation of the delightful book into a captivating film. In this 20 minute video, viewers are treated to a look into how the design of the characters and environments came about, and the creation of the beautiful film score. The documentary also includes wonderful insights from Julia Donaldson, director Jeroen Jaspaert, composer Rene Aubry, and many others.

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Bruce Springsteen enjoys international No. 1 book, Top Five album success with 'Born to Run' & 'Chapter and Verse'

Bruce Springsteen’s 'Born to Run' autobiography was the top-selling book in multiple countries last week, earning raves from fans and critics worldwide. ‘Chapter and Verse,’ the audio companion CD to the gripping 528-page memoir, is 2016’s highest-debuting artist compilation, entering the Billboard 200 albums chart this week at No. 5.

'Born to Run' topped the New York Times Best Sellers list in the US and also debuted at No. 1 in the UK/Ireland, Canada, Germany, Denmark, and Sweden. ‘Chapter and Verse’ bowed in the Top 10 in 16 countries besides the US, with No. 2 debuts in the UK, Ireland, Australia, Sweden, Austria, and Italy. The album's No. 3 debut in Portugal gave Springsteen his highest chart entry there in more than a decade.

Springsteen’s public appearances to support 'Born To Run' have been epic and emotional, with than 2,000 fans packing the Barnes & Noble near Highway 9 in Freehold, NJ, on the book’s release day, September 27. After greeting more than 1,000 fans at NY’s Union Square Barnes & Noble, Springsteen was interviewed by Apple's Senior VP of Internet Software and Services Eddy Cue for a SoHo Apple Store event that streamed live on Facebook. Tickets for Springsteen’s meet-and-greet at the Philadelphia Free Library sold out in nine minutes. In Los Angeles, fans began lining up outside The Grove shopping center three days early. Ticket demand for his appearance at Powell’s Books in Portland, Ore., crashed the store’s website.

Saturday, October 8, 2016

"Life & Songs of Emmylou Harris:An All-Star Concert Celebration" on CD/DVD/BD on November 11

For four decades, Emmylou Harris’ music has had a profound influence on countless musicians and  On November 11, 2016, Rounder will release The Life & Songs of Emmylou Harris: An All-Star Concert Celebration, created and produced by Blackbird Presents. The set will be released in multiple configurations, including Blu-ray, DVD, CD, and various combo packs and is available for immediate preorder. Pre-order now through Baker & Taylor.

On January 10, 2015, a remarkable and diverse assemblage of artists, including Mary Chapin Carpenter, Chris Coleman, Shawn Colvin, Sheryl Crow, Rodney Crowell, Steve Earle, Vince Gill, Patty Griffin, Chris Hillman, Iron & Wine, Alison Krauss, Kris Kristofferson, Daniel Lanois, Martina McBride, the Milk Carton Kids, Buddy Miller, Conor Oberst, Herb Pedersen, Shovels & Rope, Mavis Staples, John Starling, Trampled by Turtles, Sara Watkins, Holly Williams, Lucinda Williams, Lee Ann Womack and Emmylou Harris herself gathered together at Washington, DC’s DAR Constitution Hall to honor one of the most distinctive and deeply-admired musicians of our time. The house band, led by co-musical directors Buddy Miller (guitars) and Don Was (bass), featured Sam Bush (mandolin, banjo, fiddle), Audley Freed (guitars), Fred Eltringham (drums), Matt Rollings (keyboards), Greg Leisz (pedal steel, lap steel), and Sara Watkins (fiddle, harmony vocals).

Writing in Rolling Stone, Jonathan Bernstein observed that “The breadth and variety of the evening’s lineup — scrappy and elegant, mainstream and indie, legendary and freshman — reflected the many artistic dividing lines that Harris has straddled throughout her entire career.”
songwriters, and has inspired legions of loyal fans throughout her extraordinary career.

Rolling Stones Set December 2 for Release of "Blue & Lonesome"

On 2nd December 2016, the Rolling Stones will release Blue & Lonesome, their first studio album in over a decade. Recorded in just three days in London, England, Blue & Lonesome takes the band
back to their roots and the passion for blues music which has always been at the heart and soul of the Rolling Stones.

Blue & Lonesome is available in various formats and will be released on December 2nd by Polydor Records. It was produced by Don Was and the Glimmer Twins and is available now for pre-order from B&E

The album was recorded over the course of just three days in December last year at British Grove Studios in West London, just a stone’s throw from Richmond and Eel Pie Island where the Stones started out as a young blues band playing pubs and clubs.

Friday, October 7, 2016

Jungle Book Collector's Edition Revealed for November 8 Disney Release

Get lost in the jungle with collectible packaging, spectacular 3D and new bonus features!

Beginning November 15, the collector's edition of Disney's live-action epic adventure "The Jungle Book"—Jon Favreau's stunning reimagining of Walt Disney's animated classic—will be available for your library to own just in time for the holidays. "The Jungle Book" Collector's Edition offers more than just the bare necessities with collectible packaging and a three-disc set containing the original theatrical release on Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, and DVD, along with originally released bonus features and five never-before-seen extras.

The Collector's Edition provides fans with unprecedented access to "The Jungle Book" production through exciting new bonus features, including a performance of "The Bare Necessities" by Bill Murray (voice of Baloo) and jazz greats Dr. John and Kermit Ruffins, an inside look at the collaboration between director Jon Favreau and renowned composer Richard Sherman on a new version of the classic song "I Wan'na Be Like You," a fascinating feature exposing the visual effects magic behind some of the movie's most memorable moments, an early animatic of the scene where Mowgli meets Kaa, and a global celebration as Mowgli and Baloo sing "The Bare Necessities."

Anne of Greeen Gables Set for November 8 DVD Release Date


PBS Distribution announced today it is releasing “L.M. MONTGOMERY’S ANNE OF GREEN GABLES” on DVD.

“L.M. MONTGOMERY’S ANNE OF GREEN GABLES” the classic Lucy Maud Montgomery story tells the tale of Anne Shirley, a precocious young girl taken from an orphanage and placed in the care of the uptight Marilla Cuthbert and her brother, Matthew. The conservative Marilla has a profound effect on the adventurous Anne and creates a journey of learning and personal engagement that has resonated with generations since L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables was first published in 1908. The book remains an iconic work of Canadian literature and has sold more than 50 million copies worldwide and been translated into 20 languages.

“L.M. MONTGOMERY’S ANNE OF GREEN GABLES” will be available on DVD November 8, 2016. The run time of the program is approximately 90 minutes, and the SRP is $19.99. The program will also be available for digital download.  

Directed by John Kent Harrison and based on the original script by Susan Coyne, this adaptation, filmed in Canada, stars critically acclaimed, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Martin Sheen. Sheen – who has appeared in blockbuster films ranging from Apocalypse Now to The Amazing Spider Man, and played the President of the United States in the multi-Emmy Award winning series “The West Wing” – portrays Matthew Cuthbert, one half of the brother-sister couple who care for Anne Shirley.

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Jonatha Brooke's Midnight.Halleluja, Set for October 21 Release

In 2010, after releasing eleven solo albums to ever-growing acclaim, beloved singer-songwriter Jonatha Brooke put her career on hold to care for her mother, who suffered from dementia. Midnight. Hallelujah., her first new studio recording since her 2008 album The Works.
Following her mother’s passing in 2012 Brooke developed a one-woman musical, My  Mother Has Four Noses,  based on the experience, which ran Off-Broadway in New York City to rave reviews. Now, on October 21, Brooke will release

Produced by Brooke along with Mark Hornsby, Phil Naish, and Eric Bazilian, the songs on Midnight. Hallelujah. touch on themes of faith, love, and addiction:

"This album is down to the bone for me. I'm grappling with spiritual crisis on songs like "Mean Looking Jesus" and "Midnight Hallelujah.." My years shepherding my mother through the darkest valleys forced me to face down my own mortality, my fears and anger. And yet I'm still talking to her on "Light Years." There's redemption here too. Love really does triumph in the end. "Really Really Love" and "You and I" are the happiest most uptempo songs I've ever ventured! And then songs like "Alice" and "Put the Gun Down" are the most topical personal songs I've written in quite a while. Given the political climate these days, I just couldn't avoid having an opinion."

"Building Star Trek" Out on DVD November 1 from PBS

PBS Distribution announced today it is releasing the Smithsonian Channel original special “BUILDING STAR TREK” on DVD. When Star Trek debuted on September 8, 1966, the world was introduced to a number of alien concepts, such as hand-held communication devices, desktop computers, space shuttles, touch screens, and more. Star Trek’s visionary creator Gene Roddenberry conceived of a world so unique that the series would go on to have a profound legacy in television history.

“BUILDING STAR TREK” follows the conservation team from the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, led by Dr. Margaret Weitekamp, as they attempt to restore and conserve the original 11-foot, 250-pound model of the U.S.S. Enterprise from the original series. The program also tracks the progress of Brooks Peck, the charismatic curator of Seattle’s EMP Museum, as he attempts to rebuild a model of the original U.S.S. Enterprise’s bridge by using authentic set pieces and props.

 “BUILDING STAR TREK” will be available on DVD November 1, 2016. The run time of the program is approximately 92 minutes, and the SRP is $19.99.

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

40th Anniversary of The Band's "Last Waltz" Dances in on November 11


On Thanksgiving Day 1976, The Band took the stage for the very last time at the Winterland Theatre in San Francisco. The concert, aptly billed as The Last Waltz, has become one of the most revered performances of all time. For the show, Rick Danko, Levon Helm, Garth Hudson, Richard Manuel, and Robbie Robertson were joined by an all-star group of music pioneers, including Eric Clapton, Neil Diamond, Bob Dylan, Ronnie Hawkins, Dr. John, Joni Mitchell, Van Morrison, Muddy Waters, and Neil Young, among others. The evening was captured on film by director Martin Scorsese. Released theatrically in April 1978 to critical acclaim, The Last Waltz is still considered by many to be the greatest concert film ever made.

Rhino will celebrate THE LAST WALTZ with four new 40th Anniversary Editions, including the pairing of the audio and video for the first time. All formats will be available November 11 except the Collector's Edition, which will be available December 9.

• 40th Anniversary Edition (2-CD, $19.98) - Original soundtrack with newly re-mastered
audio from the original master tapes on two CDs.
• 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition (4-CD/Blu-Ray, $64.98) - Complete audio from the
concert, including rehearsals and outtakes, plus The Last Waltz film on Blu-Ray.
•  40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Vinyl (6-LP, $119.98) - Complete audio from the
concert, including rehearsals and outtakes, pressed on 180-gram vinyl for the first time and
presented in an ornate lift-top box.
•  40th Anniversary Collector's Edition (4-CD/2-Blu-Ray, $259.98) - Limited to 2,500
copies, this version includes:
o Complete audio from the concert.
o The Last Waltz film on Blu-ray.
o Second Blu-Ray disc including a rarely seen interview from the 1990s with Martin Scorsese
and Robbie Robertson, photo gallery, and 5.1 audio mix of the original album.
o 300-page book, bound in red faux-leather with a full replication of Scorsese's shooting script,
rare and previously unseen photos, set sketches, three foldout storyboards, and a foreword by
Scorsese.

Jason Bourne Arrives on DVD / BD on January 3

Matt Damon (Bourne Franchise, The Martian) is back and this time it's personal in JASON
BOURNE, the action-packed fifth installment of the blockbuster franchise, coming to 4K Ultra HD on December 6, 2016, and on Blu-ray  and DVD on January 3 2017, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (delay due to Uni's Rental Ready holdback policy).  Nearly a decade since fans last saw the former operative, the explosive return brings Jason Bourne into a whole new era, revealing key secrets about Bourne's origins to a new generation. The 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD  include commentary from the cast, filmmakers, stunt performers and fight coordinators, plus behind-the-scenes features that take viewers inside the making of the film's intense stunt choreography and one of the wildest car chases in Bourne history.

"Matt Damon returns to his best role ever," touts Max Evry (COMINGSOON.COM) in JASON BOURNEPaul Greengrass, the director of The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum returns for the next chapter of Universal Pictures' Bourne franchise, which finds the CIA's most lethal operative drawn out of the shadows.  Damon is joined by Academy Award winner Alicia Vikander (Ex Machina, The Danish Girl), Vincent Cassel (Black Swan, Irreversible) and Academy Award winner® Tommy Lee Jones (Captain America: The First Avenger, No Country for Old Men), while Julia Stiles (The Bourne Supremacy, The Bourne Ultimatum) reprises her role in the series.

Hell or High Water arrives on DVD / BD on November 22

Academy Award winner Jeff Bridges (Best Actor, Crazy Heart, 2009), Chris Pine (Star Trek), and Ben Foster (Lone Survivor) star in the acclaimed action thriller Hell or High Water arriving on 11/22.

When a desperate father (Pine) learns that the bank is going to take his family’s land, he and his ex-con brother (Foster) are left with no choice. They decide to rob the bank’s branches, putting themselves in the crosshairs of an aging Texas Ranger (Bridges) in a riveting story of crime, punishment, and brotherly love.

Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD (plus Digital) arrives November 22 from Lionsgate and CBS Films. From the writer of Sicario, Hell or High Water is a modern western about two brothers who turn to crime in order to save their family farm from the clutches of the bank. Hailed as one of the year’s best films since it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, the film has since gone on to garner a stellar 98% “Certified Fresh” critics’ score, and equally impressive 91% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

The Hell or High Water home entertainment release’s special features include three all-new featurettes including “Enemies Forever” which provides an intimate look at the characters of the film; “Visualizing the Heart of America” which tells the story of the film’s setting and how filmmakers utilized real locations to bring the story to life; and “Damaged Heroes” an exploration of the outstanding cast performances. The home entertainment release also includes a Filmmaker Q&A, and exclusive footage from the Hell or High Water premiere. Hell or High Water will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

Monday, October 3, 2016

IL VOLO Releases "Notte Magica-A Tribute to The Three Tenors" CD

Following the success of their July 1 2016 concert in the magical setting of Piazza Santa Croce in Florence, Italy, IL VOLO release their new album Notte Magica – A Tribute to The Three Tenors  with special guest, the legendary Plácido Domingo.

Available now, the new album gives fans around the world the chance to re-live and experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.

In support of the new album, IL VOLO performed "Nessun Dorma" during the live finale of Season 11's America's Got Talent (NBC)They earned a standing ovation, along with heartfelt compliments from Simon Cowell and record viewer ratings. Plus, People.com just premiered IL VOLO's new live video "Granada" – view it below.

For Notte Magica, Maestro Domingo conducted the orchestra of the famous Teatro Massimo di Palermo in eight pieces, and he also joined IL VOLO to sing "Non ti scordar di me."  Maestro Marcello Rota alternated with Maestro Domingo as the conductor. The members of IL VOLO Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto and Gianluca Ginoble – performed songs that encompassed popular Neapolitan, Italian, and international music, blending in complete harmony with songs from famous musicals and renowned classical opera arias.

NOT FANCY, Anjelah Johnson's Comedy CD out October 21

Comedy Dynamics will release Anjelah Johnson: Not Fancy stand-up comedy album on CD format on October 21st.   
 
Not Fancy was filmed at the City National Grove in Anaheim, California and the show still streams exclusively on Netflix. The special includes Johnson's take on learning Spanish, marriage, her in-laws and jobs that she doesn't have.  Onion AV Club raves about Not Fancy, "Anjelah Johnson is unapologetically herself…. She's being her authentic self, and that authenticity makes her comedy visceral and personal."
 
"Anjelah is one of the most exciting and watchable comedians out there. She makes being Not Fancy sound exactly the opposite." - Decider
 
Johnson's years of experience in the comedy scene includes her infamous viral video, "Nail Salon," her work as a series regular on MADtv with her fan favorite character Bon Qui Qui, and her commercial spots for a variety of brands, movies, voice-overs, and serving as spokesperson for the Texas chain Taco Cabana.   She has appeared on the shows The Shield, Ugly Betty, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and others all while touring with her stand up comedy.  Johnson has starred in such films as OUR FAMILY WEDDING, ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKQUEL, MOM'S NIGHT OUT and ENOUGH SAID. Born and raised in California, Johnson began her career as a professional cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders.  

Royal Wives at War, on dvd October 18


PBS Distribution announced today it will release “ROYAL WIVES AT WAR” on DVD. In a series of dramatized monologues set in 1967, Elizabeth the Queen Mother (Emma Davies, Emmerdale) and Wallis Simpson (Gina McKee, The Borgias) look back at events that led King Edward VIII (Nick Waring, The Merchant of Venice) to give up the throne for the woman he loved. Combining dramatic reconstructions, archives and a chorus of acquaintances and biographers, ROYAL WIVES AT WAR tells the intimate and moving story of two strong women and the friction that characterized their relationship.
 

ROYAL WIVES explores not only the scandalous love story, but also the emotional impact of the post-abdication fallout: how Wallis regretted a marriage she now couldn’t avoid and how Elizabeth, miserable at becoming Queen Consort, schemed to ostracize and exile both Edward and Wallis. Upon the outbreak of war, the British government was forced to step in, banishing the Windsors to the then-sleepy backwater of the Bahamas. Elizabeth became the power behind the throne during the war years while Wallis lashed out bitterly from afar. “ROYAL WIVES AT WAR” is a BBC production with PBS.