Posted in: No Huddle Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 9th, 2015
"It's New Orleans; there's always something bad coming."
When you have the highest-rated drama on television, there is a temptation to milk it for all that you can. We've seen it happen with both the Law & Order and CSI franchises. The results tend to be mixed, with some capturing and even exceeding the popularity of the original. Others never quite seem to connect and are gone while their mother ship is still on the air. It's too early to tell if NCIS: New Orleans will fall in the former or latter category.
Posted in: Disc Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 8th, 2015
What a great time it was to be a teen in the late 1970’s. No, I’m not referring to disco music. It was a great time to go to the movies. It was the culmination of the perfect date, and Hollywood was riding the beginning of a trend that remains alive and healthy today. I’m talking, of course, about the slasher film. You could argue that Hitchcock started the ball rolling in 1961 with Psycho, but it would be decades before that film would find its true audience and plethora of imitators. Although The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Halloween came before Friday The 13th, can it be argued that any horror film franchise is as widely known?
Posted in: No Huddle Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 8th, 2015
"Let's Be Careful Out There!"
Hill Street Blues turned television on its head. It featured an incredible-sized ensemble cast. The use of so many characters was a considerable risk. Would the writers be able to provide us with enough meat for each to care what happens to them? The answer was a resounding yes. We cared. We cared so much that Hill Street Blues broke the standing record for Emmy nominations and wins before its seven-year journey ended. Bochco used stories that carefully intertwined each character in a tapestry that never quite ended.
Posted in: Disc Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 5th, 2015
"1836, Republic of Texas. The Mexican territory is home to thousands of US settlers. Tensions rise as Comanche and Kawakawa fight to keep their lands. Outlaws roam free, and slaves are caught in the crossfire. Mexican General Santa Anna battles to reclaim the land. US President Andrew Jackson is hesitant to intervene, and Texas has no choice but to declare itself an independent nation... The Alamo in ashes, pioneers, Tejanos, Indians and soldiers have no choice: fight or die."
Houston, we have a problem.
Posted in: Contests by Gino Sassani on September 3rd, 2015
Our buds over at XLrator Media have given us 2 copies of their latest film Five Star to give away. It's a rather unique mix of fiction and documentary style that delves into the culture of New York's street gang world. Written and directed by Keith Miller the film stars James "Primo" Grant and John Diaz.
To win a copy, just follow these simple instructions.
Posted in: Tribute by Gino Sassani on September 1st, 2015
"One … two… Freddy’s coming for you, three… four… better lock the door, five… six… grab your crucifix, seven… eight better stay up late, nine....ten … Never Sleep Again."
Our nightmares just got a little less vivid on Sunday. That's because we've lost the man who has so expertly painted them for almost 40 years. Of course I'm talking about Wes Craven. For most of my life he was the Master of Horror.
It didn't start with Freddy Krueger. I guess you could say it began with 1972's The Last House On The Left. But it was certainly Freddy Krueger and A Nightmare On Elm Street that made Wes Craven a household name, and one that more than a few folks likely cursed over the years for disturbing their dreams.
Posted in: No Huddle Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 1st, 2015
There was a new cowboy in Dallas, and he wasn’t throwing touchdown passes. But Walker was almost gone before he could really get started. After just four episodes, the show’s production company suffered financial collapse, and the show was rescued at the last minute by CBS Productions, who would continue to run the show for its nearly decade-long run. For nine years Norris brought us the ultimate Texas Ranger in a formula cops-and-robbers show. The show often became a parody of itself but maintained a solid viewership throughout. Hell, Norris even sings the theme song.
Posted in: Disc Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 1st, 2015
"Once upon a time, there was a majestic king, who lived with his noble brother in a colorful kingdom where music and art were celebrated. The king did not foresee having a child, but he lived in an enchanted land where all things were possible. In time, he was blessed with a beautiful baby daughter for whom he wished only peace and happiness. Still, the king had demons who pursued him."
If you're a fan of The Vampire Diaries, you need no introduction to Klaus Mikaelson and his family of original vampires.
Posted in: No Huddle Reviews by Gino Sassani on September 1st, 2015
"Book 'em Danno."
It's been 30 years since we last heard that phrase. Still it persisted in the modern lexicon along with the term Five-0, which is still shouted in high-crime areas in cities all over the country whenever a police presence is felt closing in on the bad guys. Hawaii Five-0 ended in 1980. That's when Tom Selleck took over the sets and production crew on Hawaii to work as Magnum P.I. until 1988 when it all closed down for good -- or did it? Wouldn't you know it, the show has been resurrected and become the hottest drama on television.
Posted in: Contests by Gino Sassani on August 31st, 2015
Our good friends over at Entertainment One are releasing The Surface on DVD this week. Lake Michigan is the setting for this tale of two men lost in the violent waters who will have to work together if they hope to survive. Sean Astin and Mimi Rogers star along with Chris Mulkey. We've got 2 copies to give away to a couple of lucky stiffs here at Upcomingdiscs.com.
To win a copy, just follow these simple instructions.
