Tag: Ben 10

  • Win BEN 10 THE ULTIMATE ALIEN VOLUME 5: ULTIMATE ENDING on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 THE ULTIMATE ALIEN VOLUME 5: ULTIMATE ENDING on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, May 9th.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, May 9th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Contest Round-Up: 2011-08-17

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    Welcome to our weekly round-up of featured giveaways here at FRED. Every week, we’ll present a new clutch of DVDs, books, and other cool stuff you can take a shot at winning. All you have to do is click on the graphics below to be taken to their respective contest pages. And good luck!

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies each of OUTCASTS on both Blu-Ray & DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies each of WONDERS OF THE UNIVERSE on both Blu-Ray & DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies each of ZEN on both Blu-Ray & DVD.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ULTIMATE ALIEN: VOLUME 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of THE THOMAS HARDY COLLECTION on DVD.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of HORATIO HORNBLOWER: THE FURTHER ADVENTURES on DVD.

    In conjunction with New Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of THE BEST AND THE BRIGHTEST on DVD.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of DAZED & CONFUSED on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of ANIMAL HOUSE on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of THE BLUES BROTHERS on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with Thinkgeek, we’re giving away three (3) DOCTOR WHO: MY MYSTERIOUS DOCTOR posters.

  • BEN 10 ULTIMATE ALIEN: VOLUME 2 on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ULTIMATE ALIEN: VOLUME 2 on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, September 15th.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, September 15th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Weekend Shopping Guide 5/6/11: Four Lions

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the FRED Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    (Please support FRED by using the links below to make any impulse purchases – it helps to keep us going…)

    I’m going to go as far as to say that my favorite film last year was Chris Morris’s brilliant balance between satire, comedy, and drama – Four Lions (Magnolia, Rated R, Blu-Ray-$29.98 SRP) – which focuses on a motley quartet of English Jihadi suicide bombers. Yes, you heard me. Not since Dr. Strangelove has comedy been so dark, so relevant, and so pitch-perfect. Bonus materials include interviews, featurettes, and deleted scenes.

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    I’m a sucker for movie vehicle replicas, particularly when they’re diecast and well done, which the 1:43-scale Back To The Future Part II DeLorean ($24.99) being sold by the fine folks at Thinkgeek most certainly is. The detailing, even at this small scale, is exquisite, and it even comes packaged in an acrylic display case.

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    The unstoppable Ben 10 franchise continues with Ben 10 Ultimate Alien: Power Struggle (Cartoon Network, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP), as Ben reaches a final showdown and a bit of a twist of fate.. The 2-disc set contains 10 episodes plus an alien database feature.

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    It seems that Disney/ABC hasn’t only been licensing their TV catalogue to Shout Factory, as Lionsgate also has a pair of series they’re continuing on DVD, as well as a first season entry. The returning series are the 3rd season of the Jim Belushi juggernaut According To Jim (Lionsgate, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP) and the 5th season of fan-favorite Boy Meets World (Lionsgate, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP), while the new-to-DVD is the inaugural season of Eddie Murphy’s claymation family sitcom The PJs (Lionsgate Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP).

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    A ghost, a vampire, and a werewolf couple looking to conceive a baby… Yeah, we’re talking about the third season of the original UK version of Being Human (BBC, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$59.98 SRP). The 3-disc set contains all 8 episodes, plus cast interviews, deleted scenes, and a set tour.

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    Based on Raymond Chandler’s The Little Sister, James Garner stars as the famous private eye in Marlowe (Warner Bros., Rated PG, DVD-$19.95), which is the latest release from the fine folks at the Warner Archive Collection.

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    With all of the recent British Royal Family foofarrall, dive back into their distant past with The BBC Tudor Collection (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$149.98 SRP), which brings together a trio of the Beeb’s classic dramas focusing on that royal line, including The Shadow Of The Tower, The Six Wives Of Henry VIII, and Elizabeth R. Bonus features include pilots, interviews, and historical profiles.

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    When a shallow size zero supermodel dies in an accident and finds herself given the body of the recently-deceased Jane – a plus-sized attorney – you get Lifetime’s Drop Dead Diva (Sony, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP), whose second season is now available. Surprisingly, it’s an affable, often funny series, even though I’d much rather have just seen a show about Jane. The second season set contains featurettes, deleted scenes, and a music video.

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    Roy Clarke’s long-running (and recently ended) series gets another classic release with Last Of The Summer Wine: Vintages 1988 & 1989 (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$34.98 SRP), featuring more misadventures from those loveable geriatrics.

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    If you’re in the mood for a traditional BBC period drama (you know the type), you can now pick up the complete collection of Lark Rise To Candleford (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$179.98 SRP), the faithful adaptation of Flora Thompson’s ode to late-19th century rural England. The set contains all four seasons, plus behind-the-scenes featurettes.

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    If you’re a movie fan and would like some nice background music to play while you’re slogging through your work day, Stephen Edwards’ Piano Music From The Movies (Music For Moving Images, $9.99 SRP) – which features piano versions of 20 cinema themes & cues, from To Kill A Mockingbird to Little Children.

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    Fill another hole in your Hanna-Barbera animation library thanks to the fine folks at the Warner Archive Collection, who have added Frankenstein Jr. and The Impossibles: The Complete Series (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$29.95) to their on-demand offerings. The 2-disc set contains all 18 episodes.

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    Based on the best-selling books by Eric Hill, entertain your kids with the animated Spot’s Birthday Party (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$9.98 SRP), featuring 9 episodes of the rambunctious puppy’s adventures.

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    With his garish track suit and shady dealings, Greedo must have been from the Jersey of the Star Wars universe, and his shot by Han Solo visage is captured perfectly via Sideshow Collectibles 12″ Greedo ($89.99)Not only does he have his blaster (poor guy), but also swap out hands and the drink he never got to finish.

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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  • Contest Round-Up: 2011-01-14

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    Welcome to our weekly round-up of featured giveaways here at FRED. Every week, we’ll present a new clutch of DVDs, books, and other cool stuff you can take a shot at winning. All you have to do is click on the graphics below to be taken to their respective contest pages. And good luck!

    In conjunction with Scribner, we’re giving away three (3) copies of Patton Oswalt’s ZOMBIE SPACESHIP WASTELAND.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DOCTOR WHO: MEGLOS on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DOCTOR WHO: THE DOMINATORS on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of THE SARAH JANE ADVENTURES: SEASON 3 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of SKINS: VOLUME 4 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Nickelodeon Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of iCARLY SEASON 2: VOLUME 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with History Channel Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of THE UNIVERSE: SEASON 5 on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with History Channel Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of TOP SHOT: SEASON 1 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ULTIMATE ALIEN: VOLUME 1 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Thinkgeek, we’re giving away five (5) STAR TREK: ENTERPRISE PIZZA CUTTERS.

  • Win BEN 10 ULTIMATE ALIEN: VOLUME 1 on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ULTIMATE ALIEN: VOLUME 1 on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, January 26th.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, January 26th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Weekend Shopping Guide 12/10/10: Bionic Bigfoot

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the FRED Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    (Please support FRED by using the links below to make any impulse purchases – it helps to keep us going…)

    They rebuilt him… Better… Stronger… Faster… And now, after an interminably long wait, The Six Million Dollar Man (Time Life, Not Rated, DVD-$239.95) has finally arrived on DVD. As if that weren’t enough, Time Life has delivered the complete 5-season run in one massive set, which includes all 3 pilot films, all 3 reunion films, the Bionic Woman crossover episodes, newly-recorded cast interviews, and alternate syndication edits of the pilots. All in all, it’s 40 discs worth of bionic fun… So plenty to keep you occupied during the long winter ahead.

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    As a child in the early 80’s I remember the magical joy of coloring pieces of thin plastic that, when cut out and put in the oven, would shrink and thicken into tiny little 2-D plastic figurines. Yes, I’m speaking of Shrinky Dinks ($4.99), and thanks to the fine folks at Thinkgeek, I’m able to introduce my nephews to the joy of heat-shrinky plastic.

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    In the mid-60’s, a trio of producers named Bob Rafelson, Bert Schneider, and Steve Blauner stepped from the surging counterculture and into the mainstream conservative milieu of Hollywood and crafted a definitive TV property with the manufactured pop band/TV show The Monkees. Seeking to move into films, they developed a decidedly unorthodox film for The Monkees written by good friend and Corman regular Jack Nicholson. After it bombed miserably, they hit paydirt with an era-defining film – Easy Rider. High definition version of both those films – plus the rest of their output (Five Easy Pieces, Drive, He Said, A Safe Place, The Last Picture Show, & The King Of Marvin Gardens) – in the box set America Lost & Found: The BBS Story (Criterion, Not Rated/Rated R, Blu-Ray-$124.95 SRP). In addition to the remastered films themselves, the set includes audio commentaries, documentaries, screen tests, outtakes, interviews, TV/radio spots, trailers, and a collectible booklet.

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    For decades, Fritz Lang’s silent masterpiece – a visual and conceptual feast that his inspired scores of filmmakers – has been a fractured film, with whole chunks of footage and sequences that were in the debut cut deemed lost forever. Well, never say never, as recent discoveries have allowed the fine folks at Kino to assemble the complete Metropolis (Kino, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$39.95 SRP), which they are making available in high definition. The print quality on some of the formerly lost material doesn’t quite match the sparkling extant footage, but that in no way negates the wonder of watching the film as it was intended to be seen, particularly after all these years. Bonus materials include a recording of the original score, a 50-minute documentary, an interview with the curator of the Buenos Airen museum where the footage was found, and the 2010 re-release trailer.

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    Earlier this year, Kino also began releasing its extensive Buster Keaton collection in high definition, with the result being a trio of must-have releases for any aficionado of cinematic comedy – Steamboat Bill Jr., The General, and a double-feature of Sherlock Jr. & Three Ages (Kino, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$34.95 SRP each). All four feature multiple score choices, featurettes, intros, and more.

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    When HBO’s brilliantly dark western Deadwood began its first season, the time period within the series was only a few weeks following the massacre of Custer’s troops in 1876. Into the lawless South Dakotan town rode two men – one a bitter ex-lawman, and the other a man looking to start a new life – and both ran afoul of the local heavy who owns half the town. What followed was an epic drama of operatic heights, and one you can watch in its entirety in high definition with Deadwood: The Complete Series (HBO, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$209.98 SRP). The 13-disc set features all 36 episodes, audio commentaries, featurettes, interviews, and an exclusive bonus disc with creator David Milch discussing the season’s conclusion, a historical featurette on the real Deadwood, a Q&A with the cast & creative team, the Al Swearengen audition reel, and a 360-degree tour of Deadwood.

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    Your perennial holiday viewing just got a high definition upgrade with the Blu-Ray release of The Original Christmas Classics box set (Classic Media, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$44.95 SRP), featuring the Rankin Bass specials Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty The Snowman, and Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town. Yes, you know you’ll be getting this.

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    Killing time between now and when the globe-trotting Cars 2 comes out next summer? Well, you can dip into brand new adventures featuring everyone’s favorite hillbilly tow truck in Cars Toon: Mater’s Tall Tales (Walt Disney, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$29.99 SRP), which features 9 short subjects, plus intros, featurettes, and more.

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    The complete runs of both the classic Batman and Superman animated series have already made their debut as box sets, as well as Justice League, so the last to get the treatment arrives with Batman Beyond: The Complete Series (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$99.98 SRP). The 9-disc set contains all 52 episodes, plus commentaries, retrospectives, a collector’s booklet, and a bonus disc with the documentary Secret Origin: The Story Of DC Comics and a trio of new featurettes.

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    It’s not really a brilliant series, but Gerry Anderson’s Space: 1999 (A&E, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$99.95 SRP) is one of those canon sci-fi series that everyone should see at least once, even if you might walk away wondering what all of the fuss is about. It does look better than ever in high definition, as you can now watch via the complete 1st season set, containing 24 episodes plus loads of bonus material, including commentaries, featurettes, documentaries, interviews, and much more.

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    It’s certainly not as well-known or well-loved as shows like Space: 1999 or Thunderbirds, but completionists are sure to rejoice at the arrival of Gerry Anderson’s Space Precinct (Image, Not Rated, DVD-$49.98 SRP) on DVD, even if it plays like a low budget Alien Nation.

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    As the little Fockers will be making their way to the big screen shortly, it makes sense that Blu-Rays of Meet The Parents and Meet The Fockers (Universal, Rated PG-13, Bly-Ray-$26.98 SRP each are making their way to shelves, both of which contain featurettes, deleted scenes, audio commentaries, and outtakes.

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    We’re now into the second season, and I’ve pretty much written off Parks And Recreation (Universal, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP) as an awkward, failed comedy that still hasn’t discovered what it wants to be, outside of another Office. Which is a shame, because the cast deserves so much better. The 4-disc set contains all 24 episodes, plus deleted scenes, featurettes, and bloopers.

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    Most people think of Romeo + Juliet or Moulin Rouge when they think of Baz Luhrmann and over look the dance-happy Strictly Ballroom (Miramax, Rated PG, DVD-$19.99 SRP), but it’s actually his most straightforward and watchable. Bonus materials on the new special edition include an audio commentary, featurettes, and a deleted scene.

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    It’s been a long string of single-disc releases leading up to the release of Spongebob Squarepants: Season 6 Part 2 (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$29.99 SRP), whose 2 discs contain 23 episodes, featurettes, and shorts. So yes, your kids can be fully immersed in Spongebob this holiday season.

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    Beginning after his emigration to the Big Apple in 1971, Lennon NYC (A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP) looks at the new, post-Beatles life John Lennon forged for himself as a husband and a father, making music infrequently. Packed with rare footage and new interviews with Yoko, Elton John, David Geffen, and more, it’s a unique look at an artist in the city he came to love.

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    The Warner Archive has decided to celebrate the holidays be bringing together the holiday episodes of everything from The Courtship Of Eddie’s Father and Alice to Mama’s Family and Dr. Kildare in the Classic TV Christmas Collection (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$29.95). The 4-disc set contains 10 episodes total.

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    The Warner Archive Collection continues to release titles no sane fan would ever think they’d eventually get their hands on, and I’d say the complete animated spin-off of The Dukes Of HazzardThe Dukes (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$29.95). The 4-disc set contains all 20 episodes.

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    In an attempt to further turn themselves into Spike, the History Channel’s Human Weapon (History Channel, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$49.95 SRP) pairs a martial artist and an ex-football player on a journey to learn different forms of combat, from karate to stickfighting, while also journeying across the globe and manhandling relics. Oh, and there’s CGI! The set contains all 16 first season episodes.

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    I’ve become less and less interested in seeing Tom Cruise on screen in recent years, and was hoping that the True Lies-esque bit of a blast thrill ride Knight And Day (Fox, Rated PG-13, Blu-Ray-$39.99 SRP) would win me back over, but instead I got an amiable enough actioner about a small toen girl (Cameron Diaz) who gets mixed up with a fugitive super-spy (guess who) that leaves practically no impression after it’s over. Bonus materials include a clutch of featurettes.

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    After Santa and his canine BFF travel to New York and the big man loses his memory, it’s up to the doggie to make sure Christmas is achieved in the saccharine sweet The Search For Santa Paws (Walt Disney, Rated G, Blu-Ray-$39.99 SRP). Well, I’m sure the kids will eat it up… Or at least be babysat by it. Bonus materials include a featurette, a music video, and a the standard DVD.

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    You know how long it’s been since Rush Hour (New Line, Rated PG-13, Blu-Ray-$24.98 SRP) – the action flick that made household names out of Jackie Chan & Chris Tucker – came out? Long enough that there’s a blurb from both Ebert and Siskel on the cover of this new high definition release. Doesn’t seem like it should be that long ago, does it? Well, here it is, sporting audio commentaries, featurettes, music videos, a trailer, and more.

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    For every surprisingly enjoyable bad idea like Pirates of the Caribbean comes a misfire dud like The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (Walt Disney, Rated PG, Blu-Ray-$39.99 SRP), which takes How To Train Your Dragon’s Jay Baruchel and makes him the new apprentice to sorcerer Nicolas Cage, who’s channeling both Keanu Reeves’ Neo and a drunken drifter. I’m sure you’ll eventually catch this film on cable, entirely by accident, and when you do – you might want to change the channel. Bonus materials include featurettes, deleted scenes, outtakes, and more.

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    Real-life lovers Drew Barrymore and Justin Long have gone down the path of many actor couples by immortalizing their relationship as an onscreen duo, with their particular vehicle being Going The Distance (New Line, Rated R, Blu-Ray-$35.99 SRP), about a bicoastal pair of lovers who decide to make a go of their long distance relationship after a summer fling in New York City. Bonus materials include an audio commentary and behind-the-scenes featurettes.

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    Rob Reiner shoots straight down the middle with his amiable adaptation of young love novel Flipped (Warner Bros., Rated PG, Blu-Ray-$35.99 SRP), about a pair of 7th graders who are coming to realize that they love each other in a “destined to” kind of way – Well, actually, the girl knew since second grade, but through a twisty path, the boy comes to fall for her as well. Bonus materials include behind-the-scenes featurettes.

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    It’s no Ben 10, but Cartoon Network’s Generator Rex (Cartoon Network, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP) is certainly constructed to try and hit all of the same buttons with the kids, right down to a super-powered kid – in this case, a 15-year-old boy/weapon made of nanites – fighting the big bad world. The 2-disc set contains 9 episodes.

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    Part of me cringes to say this, but I’ve begun to think that YouTube sensation Fred Figglehorn is this young generation’s Pee Wee Herman, particularly after seeing the feature-length Fred: The Movie (Lionsgate, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP), which finds the gratingly-voiced teen attempting to find his former-neighbor-but-just-moved-to-a-new-house crush, Judy, while avoiding neighbor bully Kevin. It’s not nearly as funny or polished as Pee Wee’s Big Adventure, but it does play to the a lot of the same absurdist man-child qualities. Bonus materials include an audio commentary, featurettes, and more.

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    As always, it’s rather pointless to criticize the Twilight movies, as the rabid, massive audience care’s not what anyone has to say about their beloved pap-fest, and the same rule applies to Eclipse (Summit, Rated PG-13, DVD-$26.99 SRP), which features more shirtless wonder for teens and 40-somethings. The 2-disc set contains audio commentaries, a 6-part making-of documentary, deleted/extended scenes, music videos, and a photo gallery.

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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  • Contest Round-Up: 2010-11-03

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    Welcome to our weekly round-up of featured giveaways here at FRED. Every week, we’ll present a new clutch of DVDs, books, and other cool stuff you can take a shot at winning. All you have to do is click on the graphics below to be taken to their respective contest pages. And good luck!

    In conjunction with Adult Swim, we’re giving away two (2) copies of VENTURE BROS: SEASON 4 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Shout Factory, we’re giving away two (2) copies of THE LARRY SANDERS SHOW: SEASON 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Shout Factory, we’re giving away two (2) copies of LEAVE IT TO BEAVER: SEASON 4 on DVD.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS WITH LEWIS BLACK on DVD.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of WWII 360 on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of HOW THE EARTH WAS MADE: SEASON 1 on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of EARTH AND SPACE on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DOG THE BOUNTY HUNTER: THE WILD RIDE COLLECTION on DVD.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) prize packs containing all five (5) of the following Lifetime movies on DVD: THE HAUNTING OF SORORITY ROW, HUSH LITTLE BABY, STILL SMALL VOICES, DEVIL’S DIARY, and THE GATHERING.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE VOLUME 9 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of GENERATOR REX: VOLUME 1 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Warner Bros Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of V: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON on DVD.

    In conjunction with Comedy Central, we’re giving away one (1) copy each of BO BURNHAM: WORDS WORDS WORDS on CD & DVD.

    In conjunction with Hear Music, we’re giving away two (2) copies of PAUL McCARTNEY & WINGS: BAND ON THE RUN on CD.

  • Win BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE VOLUME 9 on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE VOLUME 9 on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, November 24th.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, November 24th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Contest Round-Up: 2010-10-07

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    Welcome to our weekly round-up of featured giveaways here at FRED. Every week, we’ll present a new clutch of DVDs, books, and other cool stuff you can take a shot at winning. All you have to do is click on the graphics below to be taken to their respective contest pages. And good luck!

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of SECRET AGENT AKA DANGER MAN on DVD.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BATTLE 360: THE COMPLETE SEASON 1 on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of PATTON 360: THE COMPLETE SEASON 1 on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with A&E Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of THE REAL NATIONAL TREASURE on DVD.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 9 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Adult Swim, we’re giving away three (3) copies of TIM & ERIC AWESOME SHOW GREAT JOB: SEASON 4 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Scholastic Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS on DVD.

    In conjunction with Scholastic Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of RALPH S. MOUSE on DVD.

    In conjunction with Walt Disney Home Entertainment, we’re giving away three (3) copies of PHINEAS & FERB: A VERY PERRY CHRISTMAS on DVD.

  • Win BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 9 on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 9 on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, October 27th.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, October 27th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Contest Round-Up: 2010-09-23

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    Welcome to our weekly round-up of featured giveaways here at FRED. Every week, we’ll present a new clutch of DVDs, books, and other cool stuff you can take a shot at winning. All you have to do is click on the graphics below to be taken to their respective contest pages. And good luck!

    In conjunction with Chronicle Books, we’re giving away a copy of DAY & NIGHT signed by writer/artist Teddy Newton.

    In conjunction with New Line Home Video & in celebration of the individual release of the Lord Of The Rings trilogy on Blu-Ray, we’re giving away a Lord Of The Rings Prize Pack

    In conjunction with Fox Home Entertainment, we’re giving away three (3) copies of SIMPSONS: THE COMPLETE 13th SEASON on DVD.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of MacGRUBER on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of THE OFFICE: SEASON 6 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Universal Home Video, we’re giving away five (5) copies of PARENTHOOD: SEASON 1 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Paramount Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of PETTY BLUE on DVD.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 8 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Fox Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of WALL STREET on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of CLATTERFORD: SEASON 3 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DOCTOR WHO: THE CREATURE FROM THE PIT on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DOCTOR WHO: THE KING’S DEMONS on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DOCTOR WHO: PLANET OF FIRE on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE: VINTAGE 1985 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of SKINS: VOLUME 3 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of WONDERS OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of LARK RISE TO CANDLEFORD: SEASON 3 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of DALZIEL & PASCOE: SEASON 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of JUDGE JOHN DEED: SEASON 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of SHERLOCK HOLMES (1964-1965) on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of BEING HUMAN: SEASON 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of PREHISTORIC PARK on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of TOP GEAR 13 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Walt Disney Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of CAMP ROCK 2: THE FINAL JAM on Blu-Ray/DVD.

    In conjunction with Warner Bros. Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of THE BIG BANG THEORY: SEASON 3 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Walt Disney Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of PRINCE OF PERSIA: SANDS OF TIME on Blu-Ray.

    In conjunction with HBO Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BILL MAHER: BUT I’M NOT WRONG on DVD.

    In conjunction with Adult Swim, we’re giving away three (3) copies of TIM & ERIC AWESOME SHOW GREAT JOB!: SEASON 4 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Fox Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of JUST WRIGHT on DVD.

    In conjunction with History Channel Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies each of AMERICA: THE STORY OF US on both Blu-Ray & DVD.

  • Win BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 8 on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 8 on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, October 13th.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, October 13th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Weekend Shopping Guide 7/2/10: Transform & Roll Out

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the FRED Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    (Please support FRED by using the links below to make any impulse purchases – it helps to keep us going…)

    After a pair of, to be blunt, piss-poor films from Michael Bay, the Transformers franchise has finally been beautifully redeemed in video game form with Transformers: War For Cybertron (Activision, PS3-$59.99 SRP, XBOX-$59.99 SRP), which brings players to the frontlines of the struggle between the Autobots and Decepticons on their home planet, that instantly brings players back to the franchise’s 80’s glory. Spinning off from the higher-end graphics-intensive consoles, the Wii version has been rechristened Transformers: Cybertron Adventures (Activision, $49.99 SRP) and takes advantage of the Wii’s unique controller. On the handheld side of things, the Nintendo DS gets not one, but two different titles – Transformers: War For Cybertron – Autobots & Transformers: War For Cybertron – Decepticons (Activision, $27.99 SRP each), with each taking the player on one side of the war.

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    It was only a matter of time, really, before we got a 3-D webcam, allowing you to stream in red/blue anaglyph, as well as take still photos. And guess what? The Minoru 3-D Camera ($59.99) even looks pretty nifty.

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    As much as it’s been talked up, I had high expectations for Hot Tub Time Machine (MGM, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$39.98 SRP) – which is not to say it’s a bad comedy, but it’s certainly not anything I’d watch again. The gimmick – of the titular hot tub transporting a group of friends back to their mid-80s heyday and giving them a chance to take their lives down a different path – is a strong one, and so is most of the act, but it never quite gels into something comedically transcendent. By the way – can we give Clark Duke back to whoever dropped him off? Is it too late to do that? Bonus materials include behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, and the theatrical trailer.

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    Comics fans will delight in the rare and rarely seen artifacts to be found in The Golden Collection Of Klassic Krazy Kool Kids Komics (IDW, $34.99 SRP), a wonderful tome containing comic book stories from the golden age featuring art from the likes of Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko, Wally Wood, Carl Barks, Dr. Seuss, Walt Kelly, Frank Frazetta, and more.

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    Interested in how the planet we’re living on came to be? Sure you are! Find out more via How The Earth Was Made: The Complete Season Two (History Channel, Not Rated, DVD-$39.95 SRP). The 4-disc set contains all 13 scintillatingly revelatory episodes.

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    I’m sure fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of Ben 10 Alien Force: Volume 7 (Cartoon Network, Not Rated, DVD-$14.98 SRP), which contains the next 7 episodes in the story arc, plus the by-now usual alien database feature.

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    The main reason for watching The Closer (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP)? That it keeps J.K. Simmons working steadily. Oh, and Kyra Sedgwick’s fine, too. But J.K. Simmons! That’s the closer. The 5th season set contains all 15 episodes plus deleted scenes, an interactive map, and a gag reel.

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    The new film is right around the corner, but let’s travel back to the days of Arnie fighting an alien deep in the jungle with the high-definition arrival of Predator (Fox, Rated R, Blu-Ray-$29.99 SRP). The “Ultimate Hunter Edition” features an audio commentary, text commentary, featurettes, deleted scenes, outtakes, and more.

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    The wonderful parts don’t quite make for a transcendent whole, but there’s plenty of fun to be had in Pretty Bird (Paramount, Rated R, DVD-$22.98 SRP), about a trio of eccentric inventors (Paul Giamatti, Billy Crudup, and David Hornsby) who team up to create a rocket belt company. However, realizing their vision is a nicely awkward affair.

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    War may be hell, but sometimes war is just tedium. So what do you do when that tedium takes place on a distant world, and it’s not even real? You use the animation of the game Halo and create the online viral sitcom Red Vs Blue (New Video, Not Rated, DVD-$59.95 SRP). This 6-disc box set collects the entire “Blood Gulch Chronicles”, plus audio commentaries, featurettes, deleted scenes, PSAs, outtakes, and more.

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    I’m sure the books are a cracking good read and the concept of a teenager who learns he’s the son of the Greek god Poseidon is fun, but director Chris Columbus manages to bring his flat direction and visual style to Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief (Fox, Rated PG, Blu-Ray-$39.99 SRP), which brings inevitable comparisons to the first Harry Potter flick, in both story and execution, which is a shame. The kids will probably enjoy the sound & fury. Bonus materials include featurettes, deleted scenes, and more, plus a bonus standard DVD.

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    If you’ve ever been interested in how the planet we live on has shaped human events, look no further than the documentary How The Earth Changed History (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP), which does exactly that over the course of five hours. The sole bonus feature is an interview with presenter Iain Stewart. A Blu-Ray edition ($34.99 SRP) is also available.

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    SyFy series fans will have a pair of new sets to pick up – the complete first season of Warehouse 13 (Universal, Not Rated, DVD-$49.98 SRP) and Eureka: Season 3.5 (Universal, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP). Warehouse 13 contains audio commentaries, featurettes, deleted scenes, and a gag reel, while Eureka sports audio commentaries, podcast commentaries, deleted scenes, and an effects featurette.

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    It’s seems like its taken ages since its solicitation for it to come out, but old school Disney comics fans can finally get a beautifully sculpted maquette of Goofy’s peanut-powered, longjohn-clad superhero alter-ego, Supergoof ($124.99). The edition is limited to a ridiculously low 200, so snap this up as soon as you can, and let’s hope Electric Tiki and Sideshow give us a definitive Carl Barks Scrooge McDuck.

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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  • Contest Round-Up: 2010-06-25

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    Welcome to our weekly round-up of featured giveaways here at FRED. Every week, we’ll present a new clutch of DVDs, books, and other cool stuff you can take a shot at winning. All you have to do is click on the graphics below to be taken to their respective contest pages. And good luck!

    In conjunction with Warner Bros. Home Video, we’re giving away a copy of THE TOM & JERRY DELUXE ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION on DVD.

    In conjunction with Warner Bros. Home Video, we’re giving away a copy of THE CLOSER: SEASON 5 on DVD.

    In conjunction with MGM Home Video, we’re giving away a three (3) copies of HOT TUB TIME MACHINE on DVD.

    In conjunction with BBC Home Video, we’re giving away a two (2) copies each of HOW THE EARTH CHANGED HISTORY on both Blu-Ray & DVD.

    In conjunction with History Channel Home Video, we’re giving away two (2) copies of HOW THE EARTH WAS MADE: SEASON 2 on DVD.

    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 7 on DVD.

  • Win BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 7 on DVD!

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    In conjunction with Cartoon Network Home Video, we’re giving away three (3) copies of BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE: VOLUME 7 on DVD.

    Contest ends at 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, July 7th.

    CLOSED! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

    Official Rules

    No member of FRED Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    One entry per day, per person.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, July 7th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Weekend Shopping Guide 4/2/10: How To Train Your Astro Boy

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the FRED Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    (Please support FRED by using the links below to make any impulse purchases – it helps to keep us going…)

    Jerry Seinfeld cites it as the primary influence for his own show, and anyone who views The Abbott and Costello Show (E1, Not Rated, DVD-$59.98 SRP) will clearly see the precedent it established for a comedy set in New York City and almost entirely about unique characters and everyday events, rather than your typical sitcom fare. It was also anchored by an amazing comedy duo who managed to reinvent themselves for the small screen without falling into the trap of other comedians making the transition, who seemed to believe they were back on a vaudeville stage rather than pioneers on a brand new medium. I can’t recommend this 9-disc complete series set comprising the 2-season run of the show highly enough, which also feature Lou Costello’s rare home movies, interviews with the duo’s children, the 1978 TV special “Hey Abbott!”, the complete “Who’s On First?” routine, and the Abbott & Costello short film 10,000 Kids and a Cop.

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    You know, sometimes work is dragging your spirits down, you’re sitting at your desk tired and dejected, and you know there’s only one thing that could possibly lift your spirits – Drumming. And with the USB Drum Kit ($29.99), you can drum away at your desk, then quickly stash the drum pad away when you have to go back to being, you know, productive.

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    It’s got its flaws, but I did enjoy Guy Ritchie’s amped up but still faithful take on Sherlock Holmes (Warner Bros., Rate dPG-13, Blu-Ray/DVD-$35.99 SRP), starring Robert Downey Jr. as the master detective and Jude Law as his faithful sleuthing companion, Dr. Watson. The plot is almost besides the point, as it’s a hit-the-ground running Victorian buddy movie with plenty of action and detective work. As far as bonus materials go, you get a behind-the-scenes featurette.

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    Granted, there’s something inherently underwhelming about watching footage intended for IMAX presentation on a home theater setup, but there’s no denying that there’s some beautiful footage to be found in the self-explanatorily titled IMAX: Under The Sea (Warner Bros., Rated G, DVD-$27.98 SRP). Bonus materials are limited to a behind-the-scenes featurette. For a better HD view, a Blu-Ray edition ($35.99 SRP) is also available.

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    I’m not going to claim it’s a good film – or even that it’s not mostly boring – but yes, the original Clash Of The Titans (Warner Bros., Rated PG, Blu-Ray-$34.99 SRP) is a guilty pleasure for the odd sequence here and there, be it Medusa, the Kraken, or that mechanical owl, Bubo. Full remastered and presented in high definition, the new special edition adds an interview with Ray Harryhausen and a monster gallery.

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    It’s not the next season set, but iCarly fans can spin a collection of two TV movies and a pair of episodes contained in iCarly: iFight Shelby Marx (Nickelodeon, Not rated, DVD-$16.99 SRP), one of which is the titular Shelby Marx showdown starring Victoria Justice. Bonus features include behind-the-scenes featurettes and the pilot episode of Big Time Rush.

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    The 5th season of Deadliest Catch (Image, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP) is the last full season to feature the Captain Phil Harris, who passed away this past February as filming on the new season was ongoing. Even 5 seasons in, the show is still compelling viewing, and a continual reminder that I could never imagine myself doing anything quite as crazy dangerous. The 5-disc set contains all 16 episodes, plus 5 additional episodes and more.

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    I was a fan of his work on Newsradio, but I’ve never really gotten into Joe Rogan’s stand-up comedy. For those who have, he’s released a brand new DVD – Joe Rogan: Talking Monkeys In Space (Comedy Central, Not Rated, DVD-$14.98 SRP), which also include additional footage and featurettes.

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    Criterion continues to release classic flicks that you don’t even know you want in your collection until you sit down to view them. One such impressive flick is Nicholas Ray’s Bigger Than Life (Criterion, Not Rated, Blu-Ray-$39.95 SRP), a 1950’s thriller that finds patriarch James Mason prescribed the then-experimental drug cortisone, which turns the mild-mannered head-of-the-family into a violent despot. Bonus materials include an audio commentary, an interview with Ray, a video appreciation, and more.

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    If your kids walked out of the theater eager for some mighty Viking dragon-training action, you can let ’em get into to early onset cosaplying with the How To Train Your Dragon Viking Battle Pack (Spin Master, $19.97 SRP), which comes with a battle helmet, axe, and shield. The How To Train Your Dragon toy line is available exclusively from Wal-Mart.

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    You’d be wrong if you dismissed the documentary The Story Of Math (Acorn, Not Rated, DVD-$59.99 SRP) as a dry exploration of the fundamental role of mathematics in life, the universe, and everything – because, in actuality, it’s a glorious celebration of that most pervasive of forces.

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    No, I should not be surprised that, after the massive financial success of the first film, there would be Alvin & The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (Fox, Rated PG, Blu-Ray-$39.99 SRP), but there you go – it’s here. It’s also expanded the live action Chipmunks world with the arrival of the Chippettes, in addition to reducing the role of Jason Lee’s David Seville to a virtual walk-on part. The 3-disc special edition features a clutch of featurettes, music videos, and a standard DVD edition of the film.

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    Even when they’re not brilliant, I still enjoy a Nick Hornby film, and I enjoyed An Education (Sony Classics, Rated PG-13, Blu-Ray-$38.96 SRP), which stars Carey Mulligan as a young student who may let her plans for higher learning get derailed by a love affair with an older man (Peter Sarsgaard) in 1960s Britain. Bonus materials include an audio commentary, featurettes, and deleted scenes.

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    With the release of the 8th season of Hawaii Five-O (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$49.99 SRP), we’re only 4 seasons out from finally being able to put a bow on the complete run of Steve McGarrett’s crime-busting in the Aloha State. The 6-disc set contains all 23 episodes.

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    You wouldn’t think that a series about the legal maneuvering of a maverick High Court judge would be very appealing, but it is in Judge John Deed (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP), which stars Martin Shaw as the titular man who uses his intellect to make sure justice is served. The 3-disc set contains the entire first season plus the pilot episode.

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    Did you know that Steven Seagal is a deputy of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in Louisiana? Yes – that Steven Seagal. Well, if you’re still doubting me, take a look at Steven Seagal: Lawman (A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$19.95 SRP). The complete first season set contains all 13 episodes, plus additional footage.

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    The penultimate 6th season of Sabrina The Teenage Witch (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP) found our supernatural lead firmly ensconced in Boston’s Adams College, hiding her powers from her roommates (including childhood crush Soleil Moon Frye), and trying to have a normal life. The 3-disc set contains all 22 episodes.

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    While Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous sleuth is the one most-remembered, the detectives that populated the works of other contemporary writers are presented in the second volume of The Rivals Of Sherlock Holmes (Acorn, Not Rated, DVD-$59.99 SRP), which features another 13 episodes of deduction.

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    For the pre-schoolers in your life, there’s a pair of new Nick releases sure to keep them occupied while you try and get a moment of peace – The Backyardigans: Escape From The Tower and Nickelodeon: Go Green! (Nickelodeon, Not Rated, DVD-$16.99 SRP each), which features a clutch of environmentally-themed shows.

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    Originally intended as its swan song, the strong viewer numbers of 7th Heaven‘s 10th season (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$49.98 SRP) instead made it the penultimate outing of the Camden clan. This 5-disc set contains all 22 episodes, but zero bonus features.

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    Still with the single disc, no-set releases, fans can now pick up Ben 10: Alien Force Volume 6 (Cartoon Network, Not Rated, DVD-$14.98 SRP). The disc contains a quartet of episodes, plus another installment of the alien database.

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    Watch as a family grabs hold of a tragedy and rides it back into the limelight as The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty (A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP) finds the remaining Jackson brothers in a reality series that makes for awkward viewing, to say the least.

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    Want to see what the girls of Jersey Shore will turn into in 20 years time? Pick up the crass, clueless Real Housewives Of New Jersey (Bravo, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP) and see the sordid, vapid fate time and money has I store for them. The 1st season set contains all of the episodes, plus the reunions, additional footage, and a director’s cut.

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    Over the last year, I’ve fallen in love with the work of Hot Toys, which is distributed here in the States by the fine folks at Sideshow Collectibles. Much to my surprise, I also greatly enjoyed the recent CGI Astro Boy feature. So, what do you get when you combine the two? Hot Toys brilliant Astro Boy Vinyl Figure ($64.99). Standing 12″ tall, it captures Astro in the final stages of his construction, suspended by cables. The sculpting, as you can see, is simply incredible. You know you want to get it, too.

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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  • Weekend Shopping Guide 12/4/09: Faster Than A Speeding Bullet

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the Quick Stop Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    (Please support Quick Stop by using the links below to make any impulse purchases – it helps to keep us going…)

    Not as noir-riffic as their take on Batman, Bruce Timm & Paul Dini still delivered a definitive version of the Man of Steel that trumps all but the original Donner film – and it can all be yours with Superman: The Complete Animated Series (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$53.98 SRP). Bonus features include audio commentaries and featurettes, plus an exclusive disc with an all-new retrospective. My one gripe? Warners cheaped out and used the abysmal double-sided discs on 3 of the 7 contained within. Haven’t you realized that they’re an abomination, Warners? Please. Stop using them.

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    If last year’s 20th anniversary set featuring the collectible Crow T. Robot figurine was anything to go by, I’d recommend snatching your copy of the limited edition Mystery Science Theater 3000: XVI (Shout! Factory, Not Rated, DVD-$64.99 SRP), sporting a snazzy Tom Servo figurine, before they’re long gone – which will probably be pretty darn fast. The set itself contains the episodes The Corpse Vanishes, Warrior Of The Lost World, Santa Claus, and Night Of The Blood Beast. Bonus features include Turkey Day ’95 intros, a retrospective on Santa Claus, an interview with Warrior director David Worth, and trailers.

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    It’s quite rare to encounter a new sitcom that I not only like, but swiftly fall in love with. Well, I can now add Better Off Ted (Fox, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP) to that exclusive list. Imagine if you combined the sensibilities of both Newsradio and Arrested Development and set it in the headquarters of an oppressively omnipresent megacorporation – and there you go. Hell, it’s even a little bit Brazil. Just get the first season, and devour all 13 episodes.

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    Get the bad taste of the US remake out of your mouth by re-watching the second (and final) season of the original UK Life On Mars (Acorn, Not Rated, DVD-$59.99 SRP), which still holds up as one of the televisiual highlights of the last few years. The 4-disc set features all 8 episodes, plus behind-the-scenes footage, a documentary, and a featurette on the show’s finale.

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    I got exactly what I expected from Four Christmases (New Line, Rated PG-13, DVD-$29.98 SRP) – a largely by-the-numbers, inoffensive, lightly enjoyable holiday romp starring Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon as a couple whose cancelled getaway flight leaves them having to attend the quartet of Chrismtases thrown by their divorced parents. Mild hilarity ensues! A Blu-Ray edition ($35.99 SRP) is also available, with identical bonus materials.

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    Lionsgate has just dropped a boatload of their catalogue titles into the high definition arena, with one big highlight for me. There was a time when it seemed Monster Squad (Lionsgate, Rated PG-13, Blu-Ray-$19.99 SRP) would never even make it to DVD, and here it is in snazzy Blu-Ray with a full port of all of the DVDs special features, including audio commentaries, featurettes, deleted scenes, and more. Also making their Blu-Ray debut are Mel Gibson & Robert Downey, Jr. in Air America, Stephen King’s Cujo, the still-awkward Angel Heart, the cult favorite Near Dark, and the original My Bloody Valentine (Lionsgate, Rated R, Blu-Ray-$19.99 SRP each).

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    No, I will not say it’s a good film, but there’s a lot of goofy fun to be found – at least my young nephew did – during Night At The Museum: Battle Of The Smithsonian (Fox, Rated PG, Blu-Ray-$39.99 SRP), which brings Ben Stiller back as night watchman Larry Daley, as the magical exhibits that came to life during the original film get transferred to the massive archives of the Smithsonian… And wouldn’t you know it? More hijinks! Bonus features include audio commentaries, deleted scenes, featurettes, a gag reel, and a DVD copy of the film.

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    A truly groundbreaking comic performer and television innovator that should be required viewing for anyone claiming to have an affinity for comedy gets a nice introductory set via Spike Jones: The Funniest Show On Earth (Infinity, Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP). The 3-disc set is packed with classic bits and over 60 songs, plus 2 never-aired pilots.

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    If you go into Funny People (Universal, Rated R, DVD-$34.98 SRP) expecting another laugh-a-minute Apatow flick like 40-Year-Old Virgin or Knocked Up, you’ll probably be surprised and a bit disappointed to learn it’s actually a tale *about* funny people – comedians – in particular one played by Adam Sandler, who is given a second chance and decides to address some issues in his life, particularly the girl that got away. Bonus materials include an audio commentary, a production documentary, featurettes, deleted scenes, prank calls, a gag reel, and more. The Blu-Ray edition ($39.98 SRP) features additional deleted scenes and prank calls.

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    Packed to the hilt with guest stars like Steve McQueen and Walter Matthau and hosted by its titular master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock Presents: Season 4 (Universal, Not Rated, DVD-$30.99 SRP) keeps the quality level up across its 36 episodes, all of which are well worth a spin. There’s also a bonus featurette, “Fasten Your Seatbelt: The Thrilling Art Of Alfred Hitchcock”.

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    Maybe one day someone will find the closet that the real Robert Rodriguez has been locked in for the past few years. In the meantime, the Pod-riguez is delivering tepid kiddie cinema like Shorts (New Line, Rated PG, DVD-$28.98 SRP), which could have been a rollicking tale of kids finding a magic, wish-giving rock but is instead a tepid affair marked by occasional flashes of what could have been. Bonus materials include a behind-the-scenes featurette and a mini-cooking school short. A Blu-Ray edition ($35.99 SRP) is also available, with identical bonus materials.

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    If I had my druthers (which I do), I’d like to ignore that Torchwood ever existed as a Doctor Who spin-off and focus entirely on The Sarah Jane Adventures (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP) as a worthy extension of the Who-niverse. Because it is. Made for the BBC’s children’s channel, it’s a fun, fast, but thoughtful and character-driven show. Don’t believe me? Check out the second season set, where everything comes together and gels. Bonus features include interviews, galleries, audio clips, TV spots, trailers, and more.

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    Animation makes the transition to live action with the made-for-TV Ben 10: Alien Swarm (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$19.97 SRP), which finds Ben taking on an alien menace intent on dominating the Earth. Bonus features include a making-of featurette and a music video. A Blu-Ray edition ($29.99 SRP) is also available, with identical bonus materials.

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    Pull out all of the teeth of the original and make the sense of “Gotta keep the franchise churning” palpable, and you’ve got the not-terribly-interesting Terminator: Salvation (Warner Bros., Rated PG-13, DVD-$28.98 SRP). Further muddying the franchise’s continuity by flash-forwarding to the middle, Christian Bale era of humanity’s last hope, John Connor, and forcing him to keep safe the life of his own father. Yeah, it’s a mess. The 3-disc Blu-Ray edition ($35.99 SRP) features an extended director’s cut, a picture-in-picture exploration with director McG, and a pair of behind-the-scenes featurettes.

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    It’s a little bit House, a little bit Chicago Hope, and a little bit Grey’s Anatomy – it’s Mental (Fox, Not Rated, DVD-$49.98 SRP), about the new Director of Psychiatric Services at Wharton Memorial Hospital, Dr. Jack Gallagher, his quirky colleagues, and his unorthodox methods. The 4-disc set contains all 13 episodes, plus an alternate pilot and a featurette.

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    The lawyer with the golden briefs returns with the second volume of it’s 3rd season – otherwise known as Perry Mason Season 3: Volume 2 (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$49.99 SRP). The 3-disc set contains 12 episodes of high stakes legal wrangling.

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    I’ve become quite tired of Michael Cera, so I was pleased that Paper Heart (Anchor Bay, Rated PG-13, DVD-$29.98 SRP) is really a “documentary” about fellow Gen-Z’er Charlyne Yi’s search for love – a concept she doesn’t really believe in, at least in the fairytale, Hollywood sense. But yes, there is some Cera here. Bonus features include featurettes, interviews, deleted scenes, and musical performances. A Blu-Ray edition ($39.98 SRP) is also available, with identical bonus features.

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    In the mood for a middling little horror flick that’s at least an improvement over channel surfing? Wondering whatever happened to Thora Birch & Brittany Murphy? Well, you’ll find them both in Deadline (First Look Studios, Rated R, DVD-$28.98 SRP), about a screenwriter (Murphy) who retires to a Victorian house in the country after having a breakdown, hoping to finish her screenplay. Instead, she finds disturbing videotapes of the couple that used to own the house, and… well… you know where this is going. Ooooooooo. Bonus materials include behind-the-scenes footage. A Blu-Ray edition ($29.98 SRP) is also available, with identical bonus materials.

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    What happens when you team up two of the most pigmentally-challenged humans on Earth and give them superpowers? You get Jim Gaffigan & Conan O’Brien (voiced by Gaffigan) in Pale Force (New Video, Not Rated, DVD-$14.95 SRP), an animated series where the pair face off against their archnemesis Lady Bronze. Bonus features include Gaffigan’s appearances on Late Night and making-of featurettes.

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    Guy Ritchie has been a scattershot writer/director over the years, but the film that put him on the map – Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels (Universal, Rated R, Blu-Ray-$26.98 SRP) is getting its high-def release, carrying over the featurette and expletive compilation from the last standard edition DVD release.

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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