KINO LORBER STUDIO CLASSICS GIVES THIS FORGOTTEN SANDAHL BERGMAN CYBORG ACTIONER ITS BLU-RAY DEBUT!
Honestly Vault Dwellers, I never knew this movie existed until about a month ago, and I'm hoping to get my paws on it sooner rather than later now that Kino Lorber gave it the physical media release it deserves! The trailer definitely makes this one look like its a good time (low IMDB score be damned) and I could totally see myself double-featuring it with EVE OF DESTRUCTION (another killer female-cyborg on-the-loose film that doesn't get nearly enough love)! If you saw this movie once on VHS as a kid and kinda liked it, or never heard of it before (like me) then continue reading to get all the details of this new Blu-ray release!
Synopsis: Captured in a daring raid by ex-CIA agent Eric Mathews (Robert Ginty - THE EXTERMINATOR, EXTERMINATOR 2), the merciless terrorist hit-woman Samira (Sandahl Bergman - CONAN THE BARBARIAN) is brought to the U.S., where she undergoes experimental brain surgery. Transformed into an unstoppable bionic warrior, she returns to the Middle East, where she obediently wipes out all of her former comrades. But when a malfunction reactivates Samira's human memories, she launches into a frenzy of cold-blooded vengeance.
As she methodically terminates her CIA adversaries, only Mathews can halt her murderous onslaught! Directed by Allan Holzman (FORBIDDEN WORLD), PROGRAMMED TO KILL (a.k.a. THE RETALIATOR) is a gripping, futuristic action thriller that also stars James Booth (AVENGING FORCE) and a young Paul Walker (THE FAST & THE FURIOUS franchise).
Disc Specs: Rated R | Color | 91 minutes | Region A Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1) Audio - English 2.0 Mono (?)
Extras:
NEW! 2K RESTORATION FROM AN INTERPOSITIVE!
NEW! Audio Commentary by Director Allan Holzman, Moderated by Filmmaker Douglas Hosdale!
NEW! Interview with Screenwriter Robert Short!
Alternate Opening Title Credit
Theatrical Trailer (Newly Mastered in 2K!)
Reversible "Retaliator" Art and Spine!
Limited Edition O-Card Slipcase!
We are truly living in a golden age where almost anything is likely to get a Blu-ray or 4K UHD release, including obscure stuff that vanished after VHS went bust. So even if it isn't all that great (it at least has to be better than R.O.T.O.R., right?) I'm happy to see PROGRAMMED TO KILL getting a second chance at finding an audience over three decades after its theatrical release! Also known as THE RETALIATOR, this sci-fi actioner is currently available on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber Studio Classics and should cost between $15 - $18! Snap up a copy now from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or get it directly from KINO LORBER!
BEN COMBES' THROWBACK TO 80'S ACTION CINEMA IS COMING TO BLU-RAY DISC FROM ETR MEDIA!
With the success of several no-budget proof of concept trailers-turned hit indie films like KUNG FURY and TURBO KID, it was no surprise that other indie filmmakers would be inspired to do their own over-the-top takes on 80s action fare as well! Case in point, Ben Combes' 2018 fan favorite: COMMANDO NINJA! Available for free on YouTube for years (so you can try before you buy!), this irreverent love letter to films like KICKBOXER, COMMANDO, RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II, and others arrives on Blu-ray disc for the first time with some really cool bonus features!
Synopsis: 1986: John Hunter is a Vietnam veteran, half commando, half ninja, 100% American. He is forced back into action when his young daughter is kidnapped by a secret ninja organization, led by a Central American dictator who wants to create a new world order through time... Unfortunately for them, she is the only thing he would kill again for. Hunter will have to fight his way through an army of ninjas, vietcongs, punks, dinosaurs, mutants, one of his former commandos and a fully equipped private army. With the help of his old friend Hopkins, Hunter will have to combine the arts of ninjutsu and guerilla warfare to become the ultimate soldier and rescue his daughter.
Disc Specs: Not Rated | Color | 68 minutes | Region Free Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.78:1) Audio - English Dolby Digital 2.0
Extras:
Feature Length Making of Documentary
Hopkins: A Commando Ninja Short Film
Trailer
Character Biographies
Theme Song
COMMANDO NINJA is now available from Vinegar Syndrome's partner label ETR Media! The disc should cost between $20 - $28 and you can order it now from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from VINEGAR SYNDROME (which will also net you a limited edition slipcover if you act now)!
KINO LORBER STUDIO CLASSICS GIVES ROBERT CLOUSE'S OBSCURE MARTIAL ARTS ADVENTURE ITS BLU-RAY DEBUT!
Up until recently, I never even knew of the existence of GOLDEN NEEDLES, but having just watched the trailer, I can safely say that I need to grab a copy of this! Directed by Robert Clouse, the man who gave us such martial arts classics as ENTER THE DRAGON, BLACK BELT JONES, and GYMKATA, GOLDEN NEEDLES follows the exploits of various factions vying for the titular seven "Golden Needles."
If used correctly, these acupuncture tools will grant someone superhuman sexual prowess (and possibly eternal life). But if used incorrectly, the needles will cause instant, agonizing death! This movie looks like a total blast and has a fantastic cast - I think we all owe Kino Lorber a big thanks for scooping up this title and giving it a brand new 2K restoration! Never heard of this one yourself? Well Vault Dwellers, pull up a chair and let's you and I take a closer look at this new Kino release!
Synopsis: From Robert Clouse, the sensational director of ENTER THE DRAGON, DARKER THAN AMBER, GAME OF DEATH, FORCE: FIVE, GYMKATA, and THE AMSTERDAM KILL, comes this suspense story of a priceless ancient Chinese statue that is pursued halfway across the world. The legend of the golden statue (which contains seven youth-restoring acupuncture needles) promises the owner health and incredible vigor... but can also deliver a painful death!
Disc Specs: Rated PG | Color | 72 minutes | Region A Video - 1080p Widescreen (2.39:1) Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono
Extras:
NEW! 2K restoration of the film!
NEW! Audio Commentary by critics Howard S. Berger and Chris Poggiali!
Radio Spots
TV Spot
Image Gallery
Theatrical Trailer
Newly Commissioned Art by Vince Evans!
Reversible Art
Limited Edition O-Card Slipcase!
Kino Lorber's GOLDEN NEEDLES is currently available wherever Blu-ray discs are sold and should cost between $15 - $18! If this seems like it'd be up your alley, you can order a copy right this very minute from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from KINO LORBER!
WANTED ON BLU-RAY: BRAINS SMASHER... A LOVE STORY (1993)
Rated PG-13 | Color | 88 minutes
While many of you reading this were introduced to Andrew Dice Clay through his stand up (gotta love those dirty nursery rhymes), or perhaps his lead role in THE ADVENTURES OF FORD FAIRLANE (which earned him a Razzy Award for Worst Actor!), my first brush with "the Diceman" was in the mid-90s when I caught BRAIN SMASHER... A LOVE STORY late one night on Cinemax.
Suffice it to say, I was looking for ahm.... other entertainment on that particular cable channel that fateful night, but what I found turned out to be so much better! In BRAIN SMASHER, Andrew Dice Clay is a nightclub bouncer who ends up battling ("We are NOT") ninjas to rescue a beautiful model and stop a martial arts madman from becoming (possibly) immortal! Directed by Albert Pyun (ARCADE, CAPTAIN AMERICA), this fun little romantic Action-Comedy quickly became a personal favorite in my early teenage years, but just as quickly vanished once the VHS-era came to a close.
We're now heading towards the 30th anniversary of this low-budget gem, and it still hasn't had a DVD release here in the United States (though it did briefly pop up on NetFlix around 2012), and doesn't seem to be high on anyone's list for a Blu-ray debut. So once again I find myself fighting the good fight and taking up the cause for a movie that deserves more love!
Synopsis: An adventurous botanist discovers a rare (and legendary) red lotus flower and mails it off to her supermodel sister Samantha Crain (Teri Hatcher), in Portland, Oregon. Hot on the trail of said lotus (whose petals can allegedly imbue anyone who eats them with special powers.... or immortality... or... something...) is a clan of murderous Shaolin monks (in Kato masks) who can catch bullets with their bare hands and hate being called ninjas!
"For the one millionth time: We are NOT Ninjas!"
With the monks hot on her heels, Samantha runs for her life and into Ed Malloy (Andrew Dice Clay), a nightclub bouncer dubbed The Brain Smasher. Not one to ignore a pretty face, the trash-talking, wise-cracking Ed is dragged into the chase and uses his innate ability to brutally knock people out to protect the beautiful Samantha. As Ed and Sam flee from the tenacious villains, they start to develop feelings for one another. Will their blossoming love survive the kung fu onslaught of the power hungry murder monks?! The only way to find out is to watch BRAIN SMASHER.... A LOVE STORY... if you can find a copy that is.
Availability: This movie has been out of print in the U.S. since it's (straight to) VHS release in the late-1990s. While is has received DVD releases in Australia and the UK, BRAIN SMASHER has never enjoyed a wide release. If you want to check out this film, you can order a DVD-R from VHSPS.COM for $15 or watch a VHS-rip on YouTube HERE.
Current Rights Holder: This may be an easy one to figure out Vault Dwellers - follow me down this little rabbit hole, won't you? BRAIN SMASHER was released by Vidmark Entertainment, a company that was created in 1984 to distribute films internationally. In 1988, they started producing their own movies, starting with the unexpectedly profitable DEMONWARP, and would eventually (by 1991) change over to Trimark Entertainment, which later merged with Lionsgate less than a decade later. Therefore.... unless Albert Pyun somehow got the rights to the film, BRAIN SMASHER is still with Lionsgate. So if you really want this movie on Blu-ray, you know who to bother first!
A new 2K (or 4K) transfer made from the original camera negatives.
Multiple audio options (i.e. Dolby Digital 2.0 and 5.1)
Director's commentary with Albert Pyun! Would be cool to have Andrew Dice Clay sit in on this as well!
Interviews with cast & crew: Primarily Andrew Dice Clay, Teri Hatcher, Albert Pyun, Tim Thomerson, Yuji Okumoto, and maybe one or two of the film's many stunt coordinators.
Making-of-Featurette
Theatrical trailer & VHS Promos
BRAIN SMASHER... A LOVE STORY is a time capsule from the portion of my life when I was making that awkward transition from child to teenager, and was one of the numerous cult gems I discovered as my love of cinema grew with me. While it certainly isn't some long-forgotten classic that the world has unjustly ignored, Albert Pyun's little direct-to-video production is a lot of fun and deserves to be seen by more people - it's on the cusp of being a cult classic I tell ya! So if I've ignited your curiosity, or dredged up fond memories of this film, then please spread the word around and maybe, just maybe, we can convince the powers that be at (I'm assuming) Lionsgate to give BRAIN SMASHER a new shot at finding its audience!
THE SEQUEL TO KEITA AMEMIYA'S "ZEIRAM" IS NOW AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY DISC FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!
Acting as a followup to IRIA: Zeiram the Animation, ZEIRAM was a fairly decent live-action Japanese sci-fi flick that relied heavily on practical effects. The sequel (which I used to have on a bootleg VHS tape) upped the ante a bit, and to my knowledge, has never received a legit DVD release here in the States.
So imagine my surprise when I discovered that ZEIRAM 2 arrived on Blu-ray disc this past Tuesday through Media Blasters' Tokyo Shock label! This new disc contains both English & Japanese audio options and offers up a handful of special features, all at a relatively low price! Now if they'd just release the original ZEIRAM to Blu-ray, I'd be all set!
Synopsis: Upon successfully completing another important mission, the beautiful alien bounty hunter Iria returns to Earth. Along with her computer, Bob, and her assistant, Fujicrow, she is assigned a new android partner. Unfortunately, residing inside the android is the most cunning and evil combat life form known in the universe- a vicious Zeiram unit! When the android is damaged during combat, Zeiram emerges from hiding and begins to terrorize Iria and her comrades and soon becomes a serious planetary threat that must be stopped at all costs!
Disc Specs: Not Rated | Color | 107 minutes | Region A Video - 1080p Widescreen (?) Audio - English & Japanese
Extras:
The Making of Zeiram 2
True Story! - 82 Days with Amemiya Family
Zeiram 2 trailer
ZEIRAM 2 is now available wherever Blu-ray discs are sold and should only cost between $14 - $16! Add this oddball Japanese sci-fi actioner to your collection today - order yourself a copy from AMAZON or BULL MOOSE!
MASSACRE VIDEO BRINGS RICOU BROWNING'S FORGOTTEN EXPLOITATION CLASSIC TO BLU-RAY, FULLY UNCUT AND RESTORED IN HIGH-DEFINITION!
Ricou Browning's claim to fame was being the Gill Man in all of the aquatic scenes in the CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON trilogy, as well as being the creator of FLIPPER! But what many do not know is that Ricou (who directed family-fare like SALTY and the Gentle Ben TV Series) also directed a little film called MR. NO LEGS. I first heard about this movie from Hudson Horror Show frontman Chris Alo years ago, and listened in disbelief as he told me all about it. And now, thanks to the efforts of Massacre Video, this long lost gem is can continue to build up a cult following!
Synopsis: Double amputee, Mr. No Legs, may not seem much of a threat at first, but cross him and you’ll see why he’s Florida’s ruthless drug kingpin D’Angelo’s deadliest enforcer. With his unique martial arts mastery and shotgun-wielding wheelchair, Mr. No Legs is virtually unstoppable. But when a henchman kills the sister of a straight-shooting cop, D’Angelo’s whole enterprise may come undone, and threaten to bring No Legs down with it.
Director Ricou Browning brings us into a world full of double crosses, cover-ups, bloody bar brawls, and weaponized wheelchairs with MR. NO LEGS (aka KILLERS DIE HARD)!
Massacre Video proudly presents this wild, wheeled 70s crime story for the first time in HD, with a brand new 2K restoration from the only known 35mm film elements in existence!
Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 88 & 91 minutes | Region Free
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - LPCM Mono
Extras:
NEW! 2K Restoration from EXTREMELY RARE French 35mm Print!
English, French, and German Audio Options.
Uncut Composite from 35mm Print and Video Masters!
Extensive Stills Gallery.
Trailers for other Massacre Video releases.
Plus other Surprises....
Rescued from obscurity by the folks at Massacre Video, MR. NO LEGS (previously released in a now out of print Limited Edition Blu) is now ready to be rediscovered in this wonderful release that contains two cuts of the film, reversible cover art, and "other surprises." MR. NO LEGS should cost between $20 - $24 and is easily obtainable from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, and directly from MASSACRE VIDEO!
SHOUT! FACTORY GIVES THIS CULT CLASSIC ITS NORTH AMERICAN BLU-RAY DEBUT WITH A NEW AUDIO COMMENTARY & OTHER BONUS FEATURES!
Truth be told Vault Dwellers, I am fairly familiar with this movie, but I've never seen DANGER: DIABOLIK without a certain trio of silhouettes in the lower left side of my TV screen, lobbing insults at the film. Of course I'm talking about DANGER: DIABOLIK's appearance on the final (Mike era) episode of Mystery Science Theater 3000! Oddly enough though, I didn't really think this movie was truly bad enough to end up on the show, so I'm super glad to see it get a standalone Blu-ray release here in the States! If you enjoy Euro-crime thrillers and/or heist flicks, you may just want to check this one out Vault Dwellers!
Synopsis: The suave, psychedelic-era thief called Diabolik (John Phillip Law - THE GOLDEN VOYAGE OF SINBAD, SPACE MUTINY, BARBARELLA: QUEEN OF THE GALAXY) can't get enough of life's good – or glittery – things. Not when there are currency shipments to steal from under the noses of snooty government officials and priceless jewels to lift from the boudoirs of the super-rich.
The elusive scoundrel finds plenty of ways to live up to his name in this tongue-in-cheek, live-action caper inspired by Europe's popular Diabolik comics. He clambers up walls, zaps a press conference with Exhilaration Gas, smacks a confession out of a crime lord while freefalling with him from an airplane, and pulls off the heist of a twenty-ton gold ingot. Impossible? No, diabolical – DANGER: DIABOLIK, to be exact!
Disc Specs:
Not Rated | Color | 105 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono (?)
Extras:
NEW! Audio Commentary With Film Historians Troy Howarth And Nathaniel Thompson!
Audio Commentary With Actor John Phillip Law And Tim Lucas, Biographer Of Director Mario Bava!
Danger: Diabolik – From Fumetti To Film!
The Beastie Boys Music Video Body Movin’ With Optional Commentary By Adam Yauch!
Teaser Trailer
Theatrical Trailer
Shout! Factory's DANGER: DIABOLIK Blu-ray thankfully ports over all the extras from the previous Paramount DVD release, and tosses in that new audio commentary for good measure! DANGER: DIABOLIK will be available wherever Blu-ray discs are sold on Tuesday, May 19th and should cost between $24 - $30! If you want to get "Deep, Deep, Down" with John Phillip Law, order yourself a copy today from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY.
SCREAM FACTORY GOES ALL OUT FOR JOHN CARPENTER'S CLASSIC FANTASY-ADVENTURE, FEATURING HOURS OF NEW SPECIAL FEATURES SPREAD ACROSS TWO DISCS!
Scream Factory inches ever closer to owning the entire John Carpenter library with their impressive release of BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA! With its amazing cast, hilarious (and highly quotable) bumbling hero Jack Burton, and awesome score by John Carpenter (and The Coupe De Villes!), its no secret why this movie has been a longtime favorite all of us here at Vault HQ! While the transfer on this disc is the same as the previous 2009 Blu-ray release (as are a lot of the extras on disc one), Scream Factory really upped the ante by loading their 2-disc Collector's Edition (and Limited Edition Steelbook) with two new audio commentaries and a dozen new cast & crew interviews! (Are you drooling yet Vault Dwellers? I definitely am!)
Brace yourself gang, because it's time to run through the mystic night, through the rollin' fire, through the burnin' blade, through the crawling snakes, through the midnight flame, until they take us away! Cause we've got BIG TROU-BLE, IN LIT-TLE CHI-NA!
BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA (2-Disc Collector's Edition) with slipcover!
An exclusive 18” x 24” rolled poster of the new Collector’s Edition artwork by Laz Marquez!
A 7” green vinyl (via Sacred Bones) featuring music composed by John Carpenter and recorded by
John, Cody Carpenter, and Daniel Davies. The A-side includes the 2017
version of the main theme, "Porkchop Express" and the B-side contains a never-before-released recording of
"The Alley War," recorded by the trio in 2019. Limited to 2,500 copies and housed in a lavish slipcase
with new art by frequent Carpenter collaborator Chris Bilheimer!
BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA (2-Disc Limited Edition Steelbook)!
An exclusive 28.5” x 16.5" rolled lithograph of the new Steelbook artwork by Nat Marsh!
A 7” green vinyl (via Sacred Bones) featuring music composed by John Carpenter and recorded by
John, Cody Carpenter, and Daniel Davies. The A-side includes the 2017
version of the main theme, "Porkchop Express" and the B-side contains a never-before-released recording of
"The Alley War," recorded by the trio in 2019. Limited to 2,500 copies and housed in a lavish slipcase
with new art by frequent Carpenter collaborator Chris Bilheimer!
BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA (2-Disc Collector's Edition) with slipcover!
BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA (2-Disc Limited Edition Steelbook)!
An exclusive 18” x 24” rolled poster of the new Collector’s Edition artwork by Laz Marquez!
An exclusive 28.5” x 16.5" rolled lithograph of the new Steelbook artwork by Nat Marsh!
A 7” green vinyl (via Sacred Bones) featuring music composed by John Carpenter and recorded by
John, Cody Carpenter, and Daniel Davies. The A-side includes the 2017
version of the main theme, "Porkchop Express" and the B-side contains a never-before-released recording of
"The Alley War," recorded by the trio in 2019. Limited to 2,500 copies and housed in a lavish slipcase
with new art by frequent Carpenter collaborator Chris Bilheimer!
Egads! Those bundles are a bit rich for my blood (I personally settled on the plain ole steelbook!) but since we're in the thick of the Christmas season, any of these three packages could be an amazing gift for that BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA fan in your life! However, if spending $50+ is not an option, you can get the Collector's Edition of the film for between $23 - $28 from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY. The Steelbook costs between $25 - $30 and can also be obtained from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or SHOUT! FACTORY.
UPDATE [08/20/25]: Kino Lorber Studio Classics gave DEATH MACHINE its big Blu-ray debut on May 28, 2024! The two-disc set contains THREE cuts of the film, two new audio commentaries, plus other new and archival extras about the making of the film! You can order a copy now from Amazon.com HERE!
After cutting his teeth as a director on 1994's DEATH MACHINE (more on that later!), Stephen went on to direct BLADE for New Line Cinema in 1998. The success of that film was followed by another project he wrote and directed (THE LAST MINUTE, which seems oddly prophetic in retrospect), and it seemed like he was destined for bigger and better things! Then in 2003 it happened: Stephen Norrington's directing career ground to a halt thanks to a little movie called THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN.
This production was nothing short of a perfect storm of awfulness: Stephen was saddled with a disgruntled Sean Connery (who was by all accounts, openly disdainful of Norrington on the set), experienced frequent studio interference (the Fox execs decided the movie needed hit theaters in the Summer, rather than its intended Fall release), and, in mid-production, he had to search for a new special effects shop to work on the film! So it came as no surprise that Norrington quit directing soon after. As for the film itself, it was a moderate commercial success but was savaged by critics, disowned by Alan Moore (no shock there), and the focus of a plagiarism lawsuit between 20th Century Fox and.... LARRY COHEN?! (Yup! True story!)
Since the entire LEAGUE incident Norrington's done some effects work (most recently in HARBINGER DOWN), but has yet to return to the director's chair even though he's been attached to several projects including THE CROW reboot and THE LOST PATROL (which are both apparently mired in development hell). Personally I think Stephen Norrington got a raw
deal, and I continue to patiently await his return to
filmmaking. But until that day arrives, lets take a look back to 1995 when DEATH MACHINE was released, and Stephen's future as a director was so bright he had to wear shades!
Jack Dante takes part in "Bring Your Warbeast To Work Day."
Synopsis: In the not too distant future, a mega-corporation called Chaank Armaments is working on "The Hardman Project," a weapons system that is supposed to turn average troops into cybernetic super soldiers! But when a test subject goes on a killing spree and murders a bunch of civilians, there is (unsurprisingly) a large public outcry. In steps Hayden Cale (Ely Pouget), the new CEO of Chaank, who wants to provide transparency to the public and shut down the project. She's met with stiff resistance from the board of directors and the Hardman Project's unhinged weapons designer Jack Dante (Brad Dourif). Shortly after Cale terminates Dante's employment with the company and locks down Vault 10 (where his latest secret invention is housed), things quickly spiral out of control.
A trio of "eco-warriors" (named Sam Raimi, Weyland, and Yutani) break into the building with the intention of hacking/bankrupting Chaank, but end up getting tricked into cutting open the mysterious Vault 10, thus unleashing Dante's mechanical monster called The Frontline Morale Destroyer (aka The Warbeast). The technological terror immediately begins hunting for targets (by "sensing" their fear) and mauls anyone unlucky enough to be caught in its path. With Dante holding all the cards, the would-be eco-terrorists and Cale must find a way out of the locked-down building, or discover a way to defeat the dreaded Warbeast that is running amok!
DEATH MACHINE was written and directed by Stephen Norrington and is, essentially, a well-funded and ambitious fan film. The Warbeast has a passing resemblance to the Xenomorphs Norrington helped create in ALIENS and ALIEN 3, plus many of the characters are named after directors (e.g. Carpenter, Raimi, Dante) or inspired by the ALIEN films (e.g. "Scott Ridley," Weyland, and Yutani). Not surprisingly, the effects are fairly well done (the Warbeast is a brilliantly nasty piece of work!) and Dourif steals the show as Jack Dante (a role that got him nominated for best actor at the 1995 Sitges Film Festival)!
I missed out on this movie back in the 90s (when it was released to VHS) but saw it years later (either on cable or DVD) and it immediately won me over! Sadly, DEATH MACHINE has been out of print (in the U.S.) since 2004, and much like its writer/director, is overdue for a comeback! Here's hoping to see a Region A Blu-ray release in 2020!
Availability: As is the case with the vast majority of titles I choose for this column, DEATH MACHINE is currently out of print. That being said, you can order new or used DVDs of the film from third party sellers on AMAZON and rent or buy DEATH MACHINE via Prime Video.
But for those of you who don't mind spending a little extra coin, you can obtain the Region Free German Blu-ray of DEATH MACHINE. This release comes in standard and limited editions: Both have the uncut version of the film, trailers, and an easter egg (i.e. a hidden featurette). The limited (to 3,000) edition is a three-disc set housed in a beautiful Digi-pack case with new artwork, and comes with both a Blu-ray and DVD copy of the film, plus a soundtrack CD!
You can pick up the standard release from AMAZON.DE or from DIABOLIK DVD! (Update: This disc is currently listed as out of stock!) The Limited Edition is a bit harder to track down, but it appears that DIABOLIK DVD still has some in stock!
Current Rights Holder: In Germany, Turbine Media has the distribution rights for DEATH MACHINE. Here in the States? Well.... DEATH MACHINE was released theatrically in 1995 by Trimark Pictures, and later on VHS by their now defunct Vidmark label. The DVD released in February of 2004 beared the Trimark logo as well, even though the company had already merged into Lionsgate in 2001. Therefore, one has to assume that Lionsgate currently has the North American rights to this film which means it could end up as part of the Vestron Collector's Series down the road!
Turbine Media's gorgeous 3-Disc Limited Edition that is shockingly light on extras.
Blu-ray Wishlist:
While I typically kick off my wishlist with mention a new 2K or 4K transfer, I have to say that the picture quality on the German disc is really good, so I'm perfectly fine with it being reused for a Region A release!
Every cut of the film: DEATH MACHINE has at least three different edits - the shortened theatrical version (approx. 99 minutes), the director's cut (111 minutes - which Stephen Norrington is apparently not a fan of?), and the unrated cut (122 minutes). Also, I'm not a hundred percent sure, but I think there's an even longer cut that runs at 128 minutes!
A Making-of Documentary - It would be very cool to have a feature-length doc that walked us through the inception and production of DEATH MACHINE. Naturally it should include interviews with Stephen Norrington, Brad Dourif, Ely Pouget, and various other cast & crew members!
An effects featurette on the creation of "The Warbeast!"
Audio commentary with Writer/Director Stephen Norrington and/or star Brad Dourif!
Poster & Stills Gallery
Trailers
Soundtrack CD
Next year marks the 25th anniversary of DEATH MACHINE's theatrical release so a North American Blu-ray could hopefully be on the horizon! And while we can own Stephen Norrington's directorial debut on Blu-ray thanks to the efforts of Turbine Media, I would still very much prefer a release specific to our region of the globe, especially if it is loaded with extras! And when that day finally arrives, you can be sure that I will shout it out from the top of the highest (digital) mountain!
ROLAND EMMERICH'S EARLY 90'S ACTION/SCI-FI CLASSIC MAKES ITS WAY TO 4K ULTRA HD DISC!
I like UNIVERSAL SOLDIER well enough (the pairing of JCVD and Dolph Lundgren was a brilliant strategy) but (Van) damn it... the resulting franchise is all over the place! There are currently three direct sequels (THE RETURN, REGENERATION, and DAY OF RECKONING), and two numbered sequels that were made for TV (BROTHERS IN ARMS and UNFINISHED BUSINESS), plus a remake is apparently in the works.
All of that madness aside, while I haven't seen it recently, I recall enjoying the original UNIVERSAL SOLDIER, and look forward to seeing it in a much higher resolution than the DVD copy I own. If you're a fan of this film and don't own it yet, or are the type that always needs the best possible version of the favorite movies in your collection (guilty as charged!), then this is be a must-own for you!
Synopsis: Soldiers Luc Deveraux (Jean-Claude Van Damme - BLOODSPORT, KICKBOXER, STREET FIGHTER: THE MOVIE) and Sgt. Andrew Scott (Dolph Lundgren - ROCKY IV, THE PUNISHER, RED SCORPION) killed each other in Vietnam. But their demise proves to be just the beginning for the U.S. government, which brings both men back to life decades later for a secret anti-terrorism program.
Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 102 minutes | Region Free
Video - 2160p Widescreen (2.39:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
Extras:
NEW! DOLBY VISION/HDR PRESENTATION OF THE FILM!
NEW! DTS-HD MASTER 5.1 AUDIO TRACK!
Audio commentary by Roland Emmerich, Dean Devlin, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Dolph Lundgren!
Audio commentary by Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin!
A Tale of Two Titans Featurette
Guns, Genes, and Fighting Machines Featurette
Alternate Ending
Behind the Scenes Featurette
Trailer
Lionsgate's 4K Ultra HD release of UNIVERSAL SOLDIER ports over the extras from the previous Blu-ray release, but boasts superior picture and sound! Is it worth the upgrade? Well that's entirely up to you! This disc is currently available wherever movies are sold and should cost between $16 - $18! Get your copy now from AMAZON or BULL MOOSE!
BREAKING GLASS PICTURES BRINGS UPCOMING INDIE REVENGE ACTIONER TO DVD AND VOD ON NOVEMBER 5TH!
Synopsis: Steve Calderon always stood on his own. In a family of cops, he was a rebel, in a world of discipline, he was a loose cannon. So, like all who stand alone, the lone wolf left the pack. When Steve returns home in the midst of his younger brother Joey’s investigation into the mysterious murder of two fighters; the case becomes personal when Joey is found brutally murdered.
With a sense of justice and revenge Steve knows what he has to do. Enter the underground world of no holds barred Bare Knuckle Brawling; run by the brutal Mereta Crime family where there is only one rule. There are no rules!
Stills & Trailer: (Click on images to enlarge them.)
BARE KNUCKLE BRAWLER arrives on VOD and DVD on November 5th, and should cost between $20 - $25! Not much is known about the physical release yet, but Breaking Glass Pictures' website lists "deleted scenes" as an extra on the disc! You can order BARE KNUCKLE BRAWLER today from AMAZON or BULL MOOSE!
YOU CAN STOP SCOURING EBAY BECAUSE CRAIG R. BAXLEY'S 1988 ACTION-COMEDY IS FINALLY BACK IN PRINT!
Originally released back on Blu-ray in 2013, ACTION JACKSON has been out of print for several years. (And going for ludicrous prices online!) Thankfully Warner Archive saw fit to bring it back, and I couldn't be happier! ACTION JACKSON was a movie I discovered back in my teenage years and I still love it! Carl Weathers is awesome as the tough-as-nails cop Jericho "Action" Jackson, plus the film features Craig T. Nelson as the crazed villain, and offers up both Vanity and Sharon Stone as eye candy! It's a fun action flick that harkens back to the Blaxploitation films of the 70s, and I for one cannot wait to revisit ACTION JACKSON in glorious HD!
Synopsis: Like a blast from a .44 magnum, Carl Weathers (PREDATOR, The ROCKY series) makes ACTION JACKSON a hero who delivers the goods with charisma and excitement. He plays Detroit police Sergeant Jericho Jackson, pitted against the brutal thugs of ruthless auto tycoon Peter Dellaplane (Craig T. Nelson - POLTERGEIST, THE INCREDIBLES), who’s out to murder his way to political power. Jackson’s also involved with Dellaplane’s beautiful wife, Patrice (Sharon Stone - TOTAL RECALL, FATAL ATTRACTION) – and his mistress, Sydney (Vanity - THE LAST DRAGON, NEVER TOO YOUNG TO DIE). Framed and hunted by his fellow officers, Jackson sets up a desperate showdown that hurls ACTION JACKSON toward a heart-stopping climax.
Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 96 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.77:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, Spanish Mono 2.0, & German Dolby Digital 2.0
Extras:
None.
While I'm pleased to see ACTION JACKSON back in print, and at a reasonable price (this re-release currently goes for between $14 - $19), I feel like a little extra effort could have went into this disc. I mean they couldn't even include a trailer? Regardless if you're a fan of this movie, rejoice and order a copy now from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, or DIABOLIK DVD!
WATCH SONNY CHIBA DESTROY HIS OPPONENTS WITH HIS BARE FISTS IN GLORIOUS HIGH-DEFINITION!
Back when DVD was just starting to catch on with consumers, I stumbled across a few double-feature discs featuring THE STREET FIGHTER, its sequels, and several other Sonny Chiba flicks (i.e. THE BODYGUARD and DRAGON PRINCESS). Needless to say, I was blown away by the ultra-violent world of mercenary Terry Tsurugi, one of cinema's greatest unsung anti-heroes! And now all three of the classic films are together in one set, with new 2K transfers and extras! I can't wait until this one arrives in the mail gang!
Synopses: Meet the meanest and most lethal karate master ever to rule the streets. He's Sonny Chiba, one of the greatest martial arts actors to ignite the screen. In THE STREET FIGHTER, Chiba stars as Terry Tsurugi, a mercenary who has been hired by both the yakuza and the mafia to kidnap a wealthy heiress, but when he isn't paid, a violent clash will ensue.
Chiba is back in RETURN OF THE STREET FIGHTER. This time Tsurugi is hired by the mob to kill two informants, but when he realizes one is an old friend, he refuses, and now he is the one being hunted. When Tsurugi is double crossed by the Ôwada clan, he takes off with something they want in THE STREET FIGHTER'S LAST REVENGE. Soon he is being chased by a group of deadly assassins.
Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 91, 83, & 84 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (2.35:1)
Audio - English and Japanese Audio tracks (2.0?)
Extras:
DISC ONE
NEW! 2K Scan Of The Original Film Elements Of The Uncut Version (91 minutes)!
Two English Dubs – The Theatrical Dub And The New Line Home Video Dub!
NEW! Street Fighting Man – An Interview With Star Sonny Chiba!
NEW! Cutting Moments – THE STREET FIGHTER Trailer – An Interview With Filmmaker Jack Sholder!
U.S. Theatrical Trailer
Japanese Theatrical Trailer
Still Gallery
DISC TWO
NEW! 2K Scan Of The Original Film Elements Of The Uncut Version (83 minutes)!
U.S. Teaser Trailer
U.S. Theatrical Trailer
Japanese Theatrical Trailer
Still Gallery
DISC THREE
NEW! 2K Scan Of The Original Film Elements Of The U.S. Cut (80 Minutes)!
NEW! 2K Scan Of The Original Film Elements Of The
U.S. Cut With Standard Definition Inserts From The Original Japanese Cut
(84 Minutes)!
U.S. Theatrical Trailer
Japanese Theatrical Trailer
Still Gallery
Yowza! New HD transfers of the uncut versions of all three films, Japanese & English audio tracks, and a few new (and super cool) extras? How could you NOT want this set?! Shout Select's THE STREET FIGHTER COLLECTION is now available and should cost between $34 - $45! Embrace the Chiba and pick up this set today from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY, which will also net you a super cool 18 x 24 rolled poster! (While supplies last!)
"DEADLY FORCE" AND 1995'S "SCREAMERS" ARRIVE ON BLU-RAY DISC FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME!
I have yet to watch DEADLY FORCE, but it seems to fit thematically with Scream Factory's latest Collector's Edition releases of 10 TO MIDNIGHT and COBRA. I haven't seen SCREAMERS since it premiered on cable (on Cinemax if memory serves) well over a decade ago, but I have been meaning to revisit it. Sigh.... guess it's time to pick up that second job I've been thinking about so I can buy these.
DEADLY FORCE (1983)
Synopsis: The X-killer is too insane to be caught. But one ex-cop is just crazy enough to try. Los Angeles is in the clutches of terror as a killer stalks the streets. Seventeen people have died and the only clue is an "X" carved in the forehead of each victim. Enter Stoney Cooper (Wings Hauser), a former police-officer-turned-private-detective. He's super-tough, rebellious, and angry and vows to bring the psychopath responsible for the "X-murders" to justice.
When innocent people are at risk ... when the police are powerless ... when nothing else will do ... your only recourse is DEADLY FORCE.
Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 95 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - ?
Extras:
None.
DEADLY FORCE debuts on Blu-ray on Tuesday, January 29th and should cost between $19 - $23! Order yourself a copy now from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY.
SCREAMERS (1995)
Synopsis: The year is 2078. The man is rebel Alliance Commander Col. Joseph Hendrickson (Peter Weller), assigned to protect the Sirius 6B outpost from ravage and plunder at the hands of the New Economic Bloc.
His state-of-the-art weaponry are known as Screamers: manmade killing devices programmed to eliminate all enemy life forms. Screamers travel underground, their intent to kill announced by piercing shrieks. They dissect their victims with sushi precision, then eradicate all traces of the carnage. They are lethal. Effective. Tidy.
And somehow, they are mutating – self-replicating into human form – and slaughtering every beating heart on the planet. Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 108 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - ?
Extras:
NEW! Northern Frights – An Interview With Director Christian Duguay!
NEW! Orchestrating The Future – An Interview With Producer Tom Berry!
NEW!More Screamer Than Human – An Interview With Co-writer Miguel Tejada-Flores!
NEW!From Runaway To Space – An Interview With Actress Jennifer Rubin!
BENJAMIN COMBES' HILARIOUS TRIBUTE TO THE ACTION FILMS OF THE 1980S HAS REACHED ITS CROWDFUNDING GOAL!
COMMANDO NINJA is an ultra-violent action-comedy in the same vein as 2015's Kickstarter-funded indie hit KUNG FURY. Featuring time travel, a muscle-bound hero that waves of machine gun-toting foes cannot seem to hit, and lots of over-the-top action and practical effects, COMMANDO NINJA has rapidly become one of my most anticipated films of 2018!
Synopsis: A Vietnam Green Beret Vet that is "Half Commando, and Half Ninja," (Eric Carlesi, who bears a striking resemblance to actor Karl Urban) goes on a quest to rescue his daughter, who has been abducted by a secret Ninja Organization, led by a Central-American dictator, who wants to create a new-world order... through time...
COMMANDO NINJA's crowdfunding goal has recently been met, and (as of my posting this) has fifteen more days left to reach its stretch goals which include: Stickers, an animated scene, action figures, a release of the film's soundtrack, and even a COMMANDO NINJA video game! If any of that sounds enticing, or if you just want to secure an official poster, t-shirt, and/or Blu-ray (once the film is completed), CLICK HERE to make a pledge!
What's that? OH! Yeah, you're not quite sold on the film right? Well I suppose the only way to win you over is for you to witness COMMANDO NINJA in all its glory! Scope out the (what is essentially a proof of concept) trailer below, and prepare to be dazzled!
Apparently the majority of COMMANDO NINJA is completed, so we shouldn't have to wait too long to see this ode to COMMANDO, PREDATOR, RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II, and various other 80s Action classics! Currently, the digital download of the film is anticipated for a June release, while the Region Free Blu-ray is expected in November!
To keep up to date on the status of the film, be sure to like its Official Facebook Page. For more information about COMMANDO NINJA's director, visit his website, and scope out his YouTube Channel!
SHOUT! FACTORY BRINGS THE ACTION-PACKED PREQUEL TO "BLACK & WHITE" TO NORTH AMERICA ON AUGUST 4TH!
I'm a sucker for Asian action cinema, so this looks like something I'll def have to check out! And since this is the prequel, then one has to wonder if a North American release for the original BLACK & WHITE will be far behind.
Film Synopsis: They're the last hope to save Harbour City... if they don't kill each other first.
When a maverick cop and a gangster headed for retirement team up, sparks will fly and heads will roll in BLACK & WHITE: THE DAWN OF ASSAULT! Suspended detective Wu finds himself back in the thick of things when he crosses paths with Triad member Xu, who's looking to unload a stash of hot diamonds.
When Xu's deal turns into a shoot-out and the diamonds go missing, the cop and the criminal reluctantly join forces to retrieve them. Before long they find themselves not only to be the hunters, but the hunted as their mission escalates into something bigger and more dangerous than they'd ever expected!
Delivering blockbuster movie entertainment, BLACK & WHITE: DAWN OF ASSAULT puts its own spin on the classic buddy cop formula, filling this outrageous actioner to the brim with over-the-top stunts, government conspiracies, and weapons of mass destruction.
Blu-ray Specs:
Color | 142 minutes | Not Rated | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (2.35:1)
Audio - Dolby Digital 5.1 and 2.0 (English dubbed / Chinese & Mandarin w/ English subs)
Special Features:
The Making of BLACK & WHITE: DAWN OF ASSAULT.
Original Theatrical Trailer.
BLACK & WHITE: DAWN OF ASSAULT will be available on Blu-ray and DVD on August 4th wherever discs are sold. You can get yourself a copy directly from SHOUT! FACTORY's online store, or pick it up from AMAZON.COM! Scope out the trailer below to see if this is something you'd want to add to 'your personal movie collection!
