E!'s The Royals to DVD in August

Audiences everywhere are in for a royal dose of temptation as E!’s first scripted dramatic series, The

Royals: The Complete First Season, arrives on DVD (plus Digital) on August 18, 2015 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. From the creator of the hit TV series One Tree Hill, The Royals is already a smashing success, amassing an audience of 5.4 million viewers for the premiere episode. The series ranks as the top new scripted series in cable for the year (excluding spin-offs) and will return in its second season this November. Starring Elizabeth Hurley (Austin Powers franchise) as the seductive and scheming Queen Helena, the scandalously fun and deliciously devious series features a sexy cast, including William Moseley (The Chronicles of Narnia franchise), Merritt Patterson (TV’s “Ravenswood”), Vincent Regan (300) and newcomer Alexandra Park.

Set in modern-day England, The Royals follows the lives of a fictional British Royal family that inhabits a world of opulence and regal tradition catering to any and every desire – a world that also comes with a price tag of duty, destiny and intense public scrutiny.

The Royals: The Complete First Season DVD includes all ten episodes from the first season, as well as three behind-the-scenes featurettes. The 3-disc DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $39.98.

"Live in Hyde Park" by Jeff Lynne's ELO announced for Video Release

On September 11, 2015, Eagle Rock Entertainment, in association with the BBC, will release Live In

Hyde Park by Jeff Lynne’s ELO on DVD and  Blu-ray  [MSRP TBA]. This video release offers fantastic value with a full-length concert and feature-length documentary on the same disc. The show from Hyde Park in the UK includes ELO’s hits “Mr Blue Sky,” “Sweet Talkin’ Woman,” “Livin’ Thing,” “Evil Woman,” “Telephone Line,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” “Showdown,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” “10358 Overture,” “Can’t Get It Out Of My Head,” “Strange Magic,” and many more!

The Electric Light Orchestra, led by one of rock’s most iconic songwriters and producers Jeff Lynne, is one of the most successful bands of all time with global sales of over 50 million albums. In September 2014, Jeff Lynne’s ELO headlined BBC Radio 2’s “Festival In A Day” in London’s famous Hyde Park. It was the first time in almost 30 years that the band had performed on a festival stage. Jeff Lynne said, “It seemed like the entire 50,000 were singing and clapping along, which carried on for the whole night. The Hyde Park concert turned out to be one of the most memorable shows ever for me”.

The critics agreed, with The Times (UK) saying it was “near perfect” in their 5-star review and the Evening Standard (London) marveling that “ELO still have the power to flick switches” in their 4-star review. Neil McCormick of the Telegraph (UK) noted how “fifty thousand grown men and women sang along in joyous rapture to some of the greatest pop music ever heard.”

I AM BIG BIRD Soundtrack Out July 31

Varèse Sarabande will release the I AM BIG BIRD – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack on CD July 31, 2015. The album features the original music composed by Joshua Johnson (WE MUST GO, additional music THE MAZE RUNNER).

“Though Big Bird exists on Sesame Street, this film is not a Sesame Street film; it is a film about Caroll, the character Big Bird, and the love between Caroll and his wife Deb,” said Johnson.

This heartwarming doc chronicles the life of Caroll Spinney, the man who has been Sesame Street's Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch since 1969. For over 4 decades, Caroll's characters have been cherished by generations of children. At 81 years old, the tenacious and enthusiastic performer has no intention of slowing down.

"The music is the perfect accompaniment to the emotions throughout the movie,” said Spinney. “My wife Deb and I listen to the soundtrack on our travels."

"American Girl : Grace Stirs Up Success" Soundtrack Releasing

American Girl: Grace Stirs Up Success will be released on June 23 by  ABKCO Records through its Little World Records imprint. This marks the second time time Little World has teamed up with American Girl to release a music CD soundtrack for a direct-to-video title based on its popular Girl of the Year series for girls ages 8 and up (American Girl: Isabelle Dances Into the Spotlight was released last summer). The new album features music from the live action film, which will be  available on HD Digital June 9 and on Blu-ray and DVD June 23 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment.

Starring Virginia Madsen (“Witches of East End,” Sideways) and Olivia Rodrigo, the heartwarming film brings to life the story of Grace Thomas, an inventive, enthusiastic nine-year-old girl who is full of  big ideas. A planner at heart, Grace finds the courage to step outside her comfort zone during a trip to Paris that broadens her perspective and challenges her to try new things. Back home, Grace uses her newfound courage and culinary skills to start her own French baking business with her two best friends. When she learns her beloved grandparents’ bakery might close, Grace and her friends combine their talents to mix together some great ideas that, ultimately, lead to many sweet rewards.

FURIOUS7 Bursts onto Home Entertainment in October

The unstoppable global franchise built on speed delivers its best, biggest and boldest film yet as Furious 7 blasts onto Blu-ray and DVD on October 13 2015 (for library and rental retailers) from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Grossing over $1.5 billion worldwide at the box office, Furious 7 tears up the screen with more gravity-defying stunts, adrenaline-fueled fight scenes and pulse-pounding action than ever before. The Blu-ray features the all new extended edition with even more explosive thrills, along with the official music video of the chart-topping "See You Again" performed by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth and over 90 minutes of exclusive bonus features, making an indispensable addition to the Fast franchise collection.

The entire Fast & Furious cast unites in purpose for an epic international adventure, hunted by a vengeful assassin from Abu Dhabi to London to Tokyo and the Dominican Republic as they try to retrieve a highly advanced piece of espionage technology, and rescue the gifted hacker who created it.  Furious 7 also bids a touching farewell to Paul Walker, an integral member of the Fast family. 

The film reunites franchise favorites Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Elsa Pataky and Lucas Black and introduces newcomers Jason Statham (The Expendables franchise, The Transporter), Djimon Hounsou (Blood Diamond, Gladiator), Tony Jaa (Ong-bak), Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones), Ronda Rousey (The Expendables 3) and Kurt Russell (Poseidon, Escape From New York).   

 

FUNimation Entertainment Signs Distribution Deal with Universal Pictures Home Entertainment

FUNimation Entertainment and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment have reached an exclusive multi-year distribution services agreement.  will manage distribution of FUNimation's entire DVD and Blu-ray line, as well as sales in the USA and Canada.   John Morici, Managing Director, U.S. and Canada, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, and Mike DuBoise, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, FUNimation, jointly made the announcement today.

This agreement will allow FUNimation, North America's anime market share leader, to continue delivering on its commitment to serve anime fans everywhere and to expand its leadership in home entertainment. "Pairing Universal's 'best-in-class' home entertainment distribution infrastructure with FUNimation's superior anime properties, along with our marketing, production, and fan engagement capabilities, effectively positions our companies for enduring success," said Gen Fukunaga, CEO and founder of FUNimation. "We believe this new strategic agreement will create an important opportunity for us to strengthen our physical distribution business."

"We're excited to partner with FUNimation, the premier anime company in both the United States and Canada. They have a proven track record for marketing a compelling slate of titles as evidenced with such recent releases as 'Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods,' 'Attack on Titan,' 'Cowboy Bebop,' 'Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign,' and their upcoming theatrical release of 'Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F','" said Morici.  "We are pleased to enter into a distribution services partnership with this talented group and look forward to our collaboration."

"Thomas & Friends: Sodor's Legend of the Lost Treasure" on DVD and Blu-ray!

Shiver me timbers! Surprises await Thomas and his friends as they dig up their most daring adventure yet. Unearthing an old pirate ship, Thomas is on the hunt for Sodor's lost treasure. When Will Thomas track down the treasure in time or will Sailor John set sail with it?  Join Thomas & Friends™ in this explosive movie adventure!

Thomas rocks the boat with some new friends, trouble soon rushes in.

With two all-new friends, the latest feature-length film from the beloved franchise, Thomas & Friends: Sodor's Legend of the Lost Treasure – The Movie, debuts on DVD and Blu-ray Combo Pack with DVD, Digital HD and Ultraviolet debut on September 8, 2015, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment and Hit Entertainment. 

Sodor's Legend of the Lost Treasure is a spectacular new adventure that takes Thomas to a new part of Sodor and on a curious quest that introduces a host of new characters; and the stellar voice cast bringing them to life. New engine Ryan will be voiced by 2015 Best Actor Academy Award winner Eddie Redmayne (The Theory of Everything, Les Misérables, Elizabeth I), while John Hurt (Harry Potter, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy) will assume the part of Sailor John and Jamie Campbell Bower (Harry Potter, Twilight) will voice trusted sail boat Skiff.

The release of Thomas & Friends: Sodor's Legend of the Lost Treasure is part of the celebration of 70 years of friendship for Thomas & Friends in 2015.  This year, the Number 1 blue engine celebrates friendship with fans around the world with new content, partnerships and activations.

Columbia Records to Release "Miles Davis at Newport 1955-75..." Box Set

Miles Davis' 20-year association as an artist at impresario George Wein's renowned Newport Jazz Festival is a thriving tradition that will be celebrated with the release of MILES DAVIS AT

NEWPORT 1955-1975: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL. 4. The four-CD box set, comprised of live performances by Miles' stellar band lineups in 1955, 1958, 1966, 1967, 1969, 1971, 1973, and 1975, in Newport, Rhode Island, New York City, Berlin, and Switzerland, will be the lynchpin for a 60th anniversary commemorative weekend of events at this summer's annual Newport Jazz Festival (July 31, August 1 & 2). Ahead of the festival, MILES DAVIS AT NEWPORT 1955-1975 will be available everywhere on Friday, July 17, 2015 60 years to the date since Davis' breakthrough performance at Newport in 1955, through Columbia/Legacy Recordings, a division of Sony Music Entertainment. Fans are now able to pre-order the 4-CD set bundled with a poster exclusively from MilesDavis.com (http://smarturl.it/miles_newport_d2c ). The set is also available for pre-order on Amazon (http://smarturl.it/miles_newport_amzn).

The newest entry in Columbia/Legacy Recordings' critically-acclaimed Miles Davis Bootleg Series, NEWPORT 1955-1975 clocks in at 296 minutes, nearly four hours of which is previously unreleased. From Miles' debut performance at NJF in 1955 (a hastily arranged jam session featuring Thelonious Monk and Gerry Mulligan, that immediately led to the trumpeter's Columbia signing), to his final public perform­ance of the '70s in 1975 (at Lincoln Center during NJF-NY, the singular "Mtume" named for Miles' favored percussion­ist of that decade), the box set traces the ascendance of Miles' music as the ne plus ultra of jazz. The full-length concert performances alone of Miles' famed "Kind Of Blue" Sextet (with Cannonball Adderley, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, Paul Chambers, and Jimmy Cobb), and 'second great quintet in '66 and '67 (with Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams) represent templates that reverberate in jazz and popular music to this day.

Teen Beach 2 Film Soundtrack Out June 22

Walt Disney Records will release the surf-rock/pop soundtrack for "Teen Beach 2," the anticipated Teen Beach 2" which  premieres on Friday, June 26 (8:00 pm, ET/PT) on Disney Channel USA.

surf and song sequel to "Teen Beach Movie," the Disney Channel Original Movie that ranks as the second highest-rated cable television movie of all time.  "

 The soundtrack will release on June 22 and includes a blend of contemporary- and 1960s-inspired songs performed by the cast, an end credit song performed by Hollywood Records' artist R5, one song performed by Hollywood Records' artist Sabrina Carpenter, three bonus tracks and a radio version of Ross Lynch's "On My Own" (written by Grammy Award-winning songwriter Evan Bogart, Riker Lynch, Rocky Lynch, Ross Lynch and Ellington Ratliff).

A fantastical music- and dance-driven story designed for kids, tweens and families, "Teen Beach 2" picks up at the close of summer. With surf season over and high school back in session, laid-back Brady and studious Mack's relationship is headed for a wipeout when they receive a surprise real-world visit from their 1960s silver screen friends, Lela and Tanner, who have remarkably departed "Wet Side Story," quickly followed by their 1960s bikers and surfer friends led by Butchy, Cheechee and Seacat.  Knowing first-hand that the "real" world and the movie world don't mix, Mack, Brady and all of the "Wet Side Story" friends must quickly devise a plan and use the magic of Lela's necklace to get everyone back to their movie world before it's too late.

Little Boy Arrives from Universal Home Entertainment in September

A heartwarming tale of a child trying to achieve the impossible and bring his father home from war, Little Boy will be available on Blu-ray and DVD on September 15, 2015 for libraries and rental retailers from Universal Pictures

Home Entertainment.

From executive producers Roma Downey (TV's The Bible, Touched by an Angel) and Mark Burnett (Son of God, TV's The Bible), Little Boy will charm and inspire the whole family with its poignant story of the indescribable love between a father and his son. Starring Academy Award nominees Emily Watson (The Theory of Everything) and Tom Wilkinson (Selma), Michael Rapaport (Boston Public) and Kevin James (Paul Blart: Mall Cop), this instant cinematic classic captures the wonder of life through the eyes of a seven-year-old child and reminds us of the power of faith, hope and love in the face of adversity. Certified and declared "a winner!" by the Dove Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting wholesome family-friendly films, Little Boy "is a movie you must not miss!" (Edwin L. Carpenter, The Dove Foundation)

WHERE HOPE GROWS Arrives August 25

Experience the power of faith, courage and friendship when the moving drama Where Hope Grows arrives on Blu-ray (plus Digital HD), DVD (plus Digital) August 25 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. Receiving 5 out of 5 Doves from The Dove Foundation, Where Hope Grows is an uplifting tale of an ex-baseball player who finds salvation when he befriends a grocery-store clerk who has Down syndrome.

Theatrically released in 2015, and written and directed by Chris Dowling (Rock Slyde), the heartwarming film features touching performances from a stellar cast including Kristoffer Polaha (TV’s “Ringer,” TV’s “Life Unexpected”), Billy Zabka (The Karate Kid), Brooke Burns (Shallow Hal, TV’s “Baywatch”), Kerr Smith (TV’s “The Fosters,” TV’s “Dawson’s Creek”), Michael Grant (TV’s “The Secret Life of the American Teenager”), Alan Powell (The Song) with Danica McKellar (TV’s “The Wonder Years”) and introducing David DeSanctis as “Produce.” Calvin Campbell (Polaha), a former pro baseball player with a self-destructive streak, has his faith in God restored when he meets Produce (DeSanctis), an inspirational man with Down syndrome. As their friendship develops, Calvin is reminded that hope grows in the most unlikely places.

Northmen - A Viking Saga to Hit Theatres With Brief DVD/BD Window

Anchor Bay Entertainment today announced the release of the highly-anticipated, action-packed Viking film NORTHMEN - A VIKING SAGA.   The film will be released in theaters by Starz Digital on July 31, 2015, and on DVD, Blu-ray on August 11, 2015. Directed by Claudio Fäh (Hollow Man II and Sniper: Reloaded), NORTHMEN - A VIKING SAGA stars Ryan Kwanten (“True Blood”), Tom Hopper (Starz’ “Black Sails,” “Merlin”), James Norton (Belle, Rush), Ed Skrein (“Game of Thrones,” the upcoming The Transporter Refueled), Charlie Murphy (Philomena) and Johan Hegg (front man of the metal band Amon Amarth). The film was written by Matthias Bauer and Bastian Zach. 

NORTHMEN –A VIKING SAGA tells the story of a group of Vikings in the ninth century who sets sail for Britain, aiming to plunder the rich monasteries in the northern part of the island. But a storm smashes the ship to pieces on the rocks off the coast of Scotland, the only part of Britain without any Viking settlements. Soon thereafter, the daughter of the Scottish King falls into their hands and the Vikings see this as an opportunity to demand a large ransom. The King immediately sets his 'wolfpack', a group of mercenaries well known for their savagery, on the Vikings. The “Northmen” with their hostage now have to force their way through the rough highlands, where they meet the brave and mysterious Christian monk Conall (Ryan Kwanten). Having the wolfpack close on their heels, a desperate race against time begins. A battle over life and death...

 

Join Disneynature's MONKEY KINGDOM in September on DVD/BD

From Disneynature, the studio that brought you Chimpanzee and Bears, comes MONKEY

KINGDOM, releasing on DVD and BD September 15, 2015.  Directed/Produced by Mark Linfield (Disneynature Chimpanzee & Earth), Monkey Kingdom is a spectacular tale set among ancient ruins in the storied jungles of South Asia. Maya, a clever and resourceful monkey, finds her world forever changed when she welcomes her son Kip into her colorful extended family. As Maya strives to keep Kip safe through unexpected and sometimes perilous adventures, amazing footage captures all the magic and surprises of their magnificent world. Maya and her family will make you laugh and warm your heart as she realizes her dreams for her son’s future. 

And, for every Blu-ray Combo Pack sold during first-week sales, Disneynature will make a donation to Conservation International in your honor to help protect endangered species in their natural habitat, supporting conservation project across Indonesia, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka.

Kenneth Branagh's "Cinderella" to BD/DVD

Celebrate Disney’s “Cinderella,” a modern classic that shines with beauty, imagination…and magic! Despite being mistreated by her stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and stepsisters, a spirited Ella (Lily James) resolves to take charge of her fate. Add a royal ball, a Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham-Carter) and a glass slipper, and suddenly – magic becomes reality!

The Kenneth Branagh directed CINDERELLA arrives on Blu-ray combo (w/ DVD) and DVD on September 15, 2015 via Disney Home Entertainment. For this release there will be over 12 minutes of additional scenes. Extras include an Alternate Opening, plus the "Frozen Fever" theatrical short!

Celebrate Disney's "Cinderella," a modern classic that shines with beauty, imagination...and magic! Despite being mistreated by her stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and stepsisters, a spirited Ella (Lily James) resolves to take charge of her fate. Add a royal ball, a Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham-Carter) and a glass slipper, and suddenly; magic becomes reality!

See the alternate opening and Mr Branagh comments, below.

Legendary Actor, Christopher Lee, Passes at 93

Sir Christopher Lee, who has starred in almost 300 movies including 'The Lord of the Rings', 'Star Wars', 'The Man with the Golden Gun', 'Dracula' and 'The Wicker Man', passed away on Sunday, 7th June.  

Born on 27th May 1922, Lee served in the Royal Air Force as Intelligence Officer during WWII. He was attached to the Special Operations Executive and the Long Range Desert Patrol (the precursor of the SAS), as well as Popski's Private Army. His missions remain classified to this date. He was decorated for distinguished service and held the rank of Flight Lieutenant.

After demobilization in 1946, Christopher Lee entered the film industry in 1947. As a member of Rank's "Charm School", he made his screen debut in the Gothic romance 'Corridor of Mirrors', directed by Terence Young that same year. Most recently, he reprised once more the role of Saruman in 'The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'. This was to be his last major role.

Lee was due to start work in the drama 'The 11th' later on this year, with Uma Thurman about the lead-up to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on America. Sadly, this was not to be. At 8.30am GMT on Sunday morning, Lee died in London of natural causes. The previous day, he had been with his family laughing and joking as usual and watching the cricket. Despite his advanced age, his death was totally unexpected.

Anchor Bay to Distribute Uncensored "Aquarius" in the USA on Blu-ray, DVD

Anchor Bay Entertainment, a leading distributor of STARZ original series and other TV/independent feature film
content, and the home entertainment division of Starz, announced today the acquisition of North American Blu-ray and DVD distribution rights to the uncensored director’s cut edition of Tomorrow Studios’ new NBC series “Aquarius” from distributor ITV Studios Global Entertainment. This will be the first time the uncensored director’s cut version will be available in North America, in addition it will feature extra material including extended scenes and more.

“We are deeply committed to continually adding great content to our growing library, and ‘Aquarius’ is a terrific addition,” said Bill Clark, President of Anchor Bay Entertainment. “We look forward to this new partnership, and our hope is that the distribution of ‘Aquarius’ will lead to a long and prolific relationship between ABE and ITV Studios Global Entertainment.”

“Anchor Bay has a great reputation and wealth of experience in the home entertainment space, making them the ideal partner for us,” said Greg Johnson, Executive Vice President of Distribution for the Americas for ITV Studios Global Entertainment. “Our expectations for ‘Aquarius’ are extremely high and we are confident Anchor Bay will help us reach our goals.”

Starring David Duchovny, Claire Holt, Emma Dumont, Grey Damon and Gethin Anthony, the upcoming NBC drama, set in 1967, follows a decorated World War II veteran and homicide detective (Duchovny). When the daughter of an ex girlfriend goes missing, he enlists the help of an undercover officer (Damon). Unknown to them, their investigation will lead them to Charles Manson. Writer John McNamara serves as executive producer with Marty Adelstein, David Duchovny, Becky Clements and Melanie Greene. "Aquarius" is produced for NBC by Tomorrow Studios, a partnership between Marty Adelstein and ITV Studios.

The WILD KRATTS are Back on DVD with "Super Sprinters"

PBS Distribution announced the release of two stories from PBS KIDS’ popular WILD KRATTS series on the new DVD “SUPER SPRINTERS.”  The Kratt Brothers are always on the move, and in this DVD, that is never truer!  In “Cheetah Racer,” Chris and Martin think that cheetahs can travel faster than any other creature or vehicle over the rough African savannah, but Aviva and archenemy Zach Varmitech challenge this and compete to build a ground racer that can travel even faster. The speed theme continues with “Falcon City.” In this episode the brothers fly with the world’s fastest animal, the Peregrine falcon. The brothers discover that Varmitech and his Zachbots are threatening to destroy a Peregrine falcon’s nest located on a city building. Can Martin and Chris pull off a high flying rescue?

In each episode of WILD KRATTS, creature teachers Chris Kratt and Martin Kratt take kids and their families along on extraordinary animal-powered adventures. The show transforms the Kratt Brothers, creators of the award-winning KRATTS’ CREATURES and Emmy-winning ZOBOOMAFOO, into animated versions of themselves, allowing the real-life zoologists to visit wild animals in their little-seen habitats and showcase key science concepts along the way. WILD KRATTS airs weekdays on PBS KIDS (check local listings).

UNFRIENDED Makes Its Way to DVD/BD

For a group of teenage friends, a devastating fate lurks on the other side of a computer screen in Unfriended, the first in a new generation of found-footage thrillers coming to DVD and Blu-Ray, September 8, 2015, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment for public libraries and "rental" retailers due to Uni's 28 day holdback policy.  Unfriended is a startlingly contemporary nail-biter from two modern masters of mayhem, executive producer Jason Blum (The Purge, Ouija, Sinister) and producer Timur Bekmambetov (Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, Wanted).

What starts as a seemingly innocent online prank produces a sequence of events that spirals out of control. During a routine group video chat, high-school friends are terrorized by an unseen figure. The anonymous intruder implicates each of them in the death of an acquaintance, revealing damning secrets and transforming trusted allies into wary adversaries. Forced into a sordid "game," the teens try to figure out who is behind the mysterious threat, but all signs point to a power from beyond the grave. Playing out in real time almost entirely on a computer screen, Unfriended features a rising young cast that includes Shelley Hennig (Ouija, "Teen Wolf"), Moses Storm ("The 4 to 9ers: The Day Crew," "About a Boy") and Renee Olstead ("The Secret Life of the American Teenager," "Still Standing").

Sony Pictures Animation Announces "Open Season : Scared Silly"

Continuing one of its most successful franchises, Sony Pictures Animation today announced the upcoming release of OPEN SEASON: SCARED SILLY, the fourth installment in the titled series. This latest production brings back Elliot, Boog and all of the beloved woodland creatures in a brand new comedy adventure, with David Feiss (head of story on the original Open Season and creator of the popular TV series Cow and Chicken) directing and John Bush (The Simpsons, Family Guy) producing.

OPEN SEASON: SCARED SILLY opens with Elliot telling a campfire story about the legend of the Wailing Wampus Werewolf that lives in Timberline National Forest. Domesticated Boog is terrified by the story and decides to "chicken out" of their annual summer camping trip until he knows the werewolf is gone. Determined to help Boog overcome his fears, Elliot and their woodland friends band together to scare the fear out of Boog and uncover the mystery of the Wailing Wampus Werewolf. 

Says Director Feiss, "My affection for these characters has only grown since we introduced them in Sony Pictures Animation's first feature.  We're having a lot of fun bringing them back for a new adventure—it feels like a big party with old friends."  Most recently, Feiss—whose prolific career began as a story artist for Hanna-Barbera—directed four mini-movies for the home entertainment release of Sony Pictures Animation's Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2, entitled Steve's First Bath, Super Manny, Attack Of The 50ft Gummy Bear and Earl Scouts.  See more Mr Feiss below.

"A Boy Named Charlie Brown" Soundtrack Releasing in June

Varèse Sarabande will release Rod McKuen Performs and Conducts All His Songs From A BOY NAMED CHARLIE BROWN And Selections From THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE, ME NATALIE And JOANNA on CD June 23, 2015. The album includes liner notes written by McKuen shortly before he passed away earlier this year.


“Writing music for films is hard work but an all-together lovely occupation,” said McKuen. “Some of my most cherished moments have been spent in screening rooms timing scenes for cues and on Russian, British and Hollywood sound stages making music with many of the world’s best musicians.”

The statistics involving Rod McKuen’s career and work are staggering. He recorded over two hundred albums and is the recipient of 63 gold and platinum records worldwide. His three-dozen books of poetry have been published in eleven languages, sold 65 million copies and made him the most widely read poet of his time. The songs he wrote and composed have accounted for the sale of over 100 million records for such diverse artists as Frank Sinatra, Madonna, Johnny Cash, Petula Clark, Perry Como, Chet Baker, Andy Williams, The Kingston Trio, Dusty Springfield, Johnny Mathis and Barbra Streisand.

"5 Flights Up" Announced for DVD & Blu-ray from Universal Home Entertainment

An inspiring story about love, life and real estate unfolds in 5 Flights Up, coming to DVD and Blu-ray on July 7, 2015, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

Academy Award-winners Morgan Freeman (The Shawshank Redemption, The Bucket List) and Diane Keaton (Annie Hall, The Godfather) star as a happily married couple who plan for the future in the rapidly evolving landscape of New York City.

After 40 years in the same apartment, Ruth (Diane Keaton) and Alex (Morgan Freeman) have decided to cash in on their sought-after Brooklyn home. Enlisting the help of Ruth's real-estate-agent niece, Lily (Cynthia Nixon), they're about to embark on a whirlwind weekend they never imagined. As a series of unexpected events unfolds and offers on the apartment pour in, the pair find their unwavering love tested in surprising ways—and ultimately discover a whole new lease on life!

 

Lionsgate Signs Deal for USA Rights to "The von Trapp Family - A Life of Music" Film

Just in time for the 50^th anniversary of the worldwide box office blockbuster The Sound of Music, Lionsgate ,  has acquired all USA distribution rights to Tele Munchen Group's The von Trapp Family -- A Life of Music, the two companies announced today.

Award-winning Dutch filmmaker Ben Verbong, who has earned acclaim with family films such as The Girl with the Red Hair, The Slurb and Mr. Bello, is directing, and Eliza Bennett (Broadchurch, Nanny McPhee), Matthew Macfadyen (Anna Karenina, Three Musketeers) and Academy Award nominee Rosemary Harris (Spider-Man 1-3, Tom & Viv) are starring in the film currently being shot in Salzburg and surroundings as well as Bavaria.

The von Trapp Family has been cherished by generations of fans ever since The Sound of Music conquered global audiences and earned five Academy Awards in the 1960's.  One of the most successful motion pictures of all time, the film will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year with the release of The von Trapp Family – A Life of Music, based on Agathe von Trapp's autobiography "Memories Before and After the Sound of Music," which tells the story behind the legend. The screenplay was written by Christoph Silber (Good Bye Lenin) and Tim Sullivan (Letters to Juliet).

"As a native Austrian, I am especially proud to bring the real story played by such a great cast together with such a prestigious partner as Lionsgate, one of the leading and prestigious US media companies which I was significantly involved in," said Tele Munchen Group Chairman Dr. Herbert G. Kloiber.

 

CAILLOU Helps Out, Releasing June 16

PBS Distribution announced today it is releasing seven stories from PBS KIDS’ popular CAILLOU series on the new DVD “CAILLOU HELPS OUT”.  Caillou loves to help out! From helping his dad make pizza to learning the importance of tidying up the classroom, Caillou realizes that lending a hand and working together makes everything easier and more fun.



Lovable four-year-old Caillou has a boundless imagination that makes every experience an opportunity for fun and play. By sharing in his incredible adventures, children can “make believe” along with Caillou and find new ways to understand and enjoy the world around them. CAILLOU is designed for preschoolers and focuses on role-playing and “make-believe.” CAILLOU airs weekdays on PBS KIDS (check local listings) and is produced by DHX Media.

  

 

 

“CAILLOU HELPS OUT” will be available on DVD June 16, 2015 and available from Baker & Taylor's AV team. The run time is approximately 60 minutes and the DVD has a SLP of $12.99.

June is "Entertainment Ratings Awareness Month"

EMA has declared June to be “Entertainment Ratings Awareness Month.” As part of “Entertainment Ratings Awareness Month,” EMA, Entertainment Merchants Association,  is encouraging all libraries and retailers of videos and video game products to emphasize the motion picture and video game ratings, as appropriate, to their patrons / customers.

“Entertainment Ratings Awareness Month” is declared annually to promote the use of entertainment ratings by encouraging stores and libraries  to review their ratings and labeling education and enforcement policies, reemphasizing those policies to their staffs, and educating their customers about the movie and video game ratings systems and library/store policies.

“Retailers are committed to assisting parents in making informed decisions about what videos and video games are appropriate for their children,” noted Mark Fisher, President & CEO of EMA. “Entertainment Ratings Awareness Month affords us an opportunity to highlight this function and ensure that its importance is communicated at all levels in the retail environment.”

Baker & Taylor is a proud member of EMA.

Every Secret Thing Arrives on DVD in August

Anchor Bay Entertainment has announced the home video release of Academy Award Nominee Amy Berg’s (West of Memphis, An Open Secret) narrative feature debut, EVERY SECRET THING. Written by Nicole Holofcener (Enough Said) and produced by Academy Award winning actress Frances McDormand (Fargo), the film features an all-star cast that includes Diane Lane, Elizabeth Banks, Dakota Fanning, Nate Parker, Common and newcomer Danielle Macdonald. The suspenseful drama was released in theaters on  May 15th and will arrive on DVD on August 4, 2015.
From the producer of Foxcatcher and based on the novel by New York Times best-selling author Laura Lippman, EVERY SECRET THING is a gripping psychological thriller about the chilling consequences of the secrets we keep.  Detective Nancy Porter (Banks) is still haunted by her failure to save the life of a missing child from the hands of two young girls.

Music from the PBS Series, POLDARK , Out June 9

Sony Classical is delighted to announce the release of Poldark – music from the hit BBC period drama TV show. With original score by Anne Dudley, the soundtrack album will be available on June 9. The TV series will begin airing nationally on PBS starting on June 21, and will be released on DVD and Blu-ray on July 7, 2015.

With weekly viewing figures approaching 9 million, Poldark is the hottest new drama series on British TV. Based on the novels by Winston Graham and adapted by Debbie Horsfield, Poldark is set in the late 18th century. Lead character, Ross Poldark – memorably played by Aidan Turner (The Hobbit) - returns from the American War of Independence to his beloved Cornwall, having spent three years in the army to avoid charges of smuggling, leaving behind his sweetheart Elizabeth. Alas, he finds his world in ruins with his father dead, his house wrecked and his sweetheart engaged to his cousin. How will he move on from this destruction?