"Phantom Halo" Review - Written by Abraham Phillips

Phantom Halo is a great little drama that leaves a lasting mark on your memory because of the wonderful acting throughout the film. That is one of its strongest realities. The direction also comes together as something to be mentioned. The plot is clichéd, predictable but still maintains a worthy example of a film that does what it needs to do through acting, direction and even story. A gambling addicted father, two brothers lost, and at an end, approaching desperate means.

This is put out by Arc Entertainment. This company releases a lot of films that tend to remain with you after watching. I recently viewed there film Freedom which I thought was an entertaining film.

The cast is what truly stands out. The ever wonderful Tobin Bell. The amazing young cast of actors Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Luke Kleintank, both are gifted and bring the characters to life in a believable fashion.

Samuel and Becket are characters that linger, and you find yourself really connecting with them, as the film goes about. Samuel, a comic book loving, Shakespearian spewing young man, and his masterly pickpocket brother, go about having to deal with their alcoholic and gambling father, as he pushes the limits, and is now in bad water with a loan shark. The brothers must strive and try to better the situation as one wrong turn leads to another.

Directed and written by a new comer to the movie making world, Antonia Bogdaovich. This is her first directorial feature film. For this being the first feature film, I felt she captured everything that needed to be, to create a memorable piece of cinema. I felt the storyline, and execution in capturing the actors and actresses worked, as if this was a veteran director. This won the 2015 Best Drama Award at the New York International Film Festival and also won for Best Director.

Thomas Brodie-Sangster is truly a gifted actor that has been standing out, and getting my attention in everything he does. From small screen, to big screen, to cartoon voice acting, which for all you cartoon lovers, he is the voice of Ferb, in the long running comical cartoon, Phineas and Ferb. Also he is most recently in the film adaptions of the popular Young Adult novels, The Maze Runner. He captures the role of Samuel in Phantom Halo in a perfect, flawless performance. I felt he was the strongest reality to the film. The whole movie comes off in a way that seems real. Another stand out performance is by Luke Kleintank, as Samuel’s brother Becket. Kleintank is also a performer that makes you feel his character, and brings that character to life through an amazing performance. Both actors play off each other’s skills. The DVD which I am reviewing has an audio of English 5.1 Dolby Digital. The audio and video are perfect, no flaw in that reality. The video is a 16x9 aspect ratio. Overall, the film is a solid watch and a great example of an underrated film that should be seen.

Review by: Abraham Phillips

My Rating: 4 out of 5

Official Trailer for the Upcoming Family Film "Molly Moon and the Incredible Book of Hypnotism"

Arc Entertainment recently released information for their upcoming release of "Molly Moon and the Incredible Book of Hypnotism". The upcoming family film stars Raffey Cassidy (Tomorrowland), Emily Watson (The Theory of Everything) and Dominic Monaghan (The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King).

"Molly Moon and the Incredible Book of Hypnotism" hits theaters in limited release and VOD on August 14th.

Plot Synopsis:

MOLLY MOON AND THE INCREDIBLE BOOK OF HYPNOTISM tells the story of a young orphan girl, Molly Moon, who comes across a book ‘Hypnotism, An Ancient Art’. Learning its lessons, she hypnotizes her way to stardom in London and becomes rich and famous. But little does she know that an unscrupulous man wants her book. He tracks her to London, kidnaps her dog, Petula and blackmails Molly. In order to get her dog back, she must rob Shorings Bank of all its jewels! And then she must find the friends she has lost from her hypnotic journey.

 "Molly Moon and the Incredible Book of Hypnotism": Official Trailer

Win One of Two DVD Copies of Arc Entertainment's Latest Release "Awaken"

Arc Entertainment recently send us over two DVD's of their latest release "Awaken" to give away to two lucky people. The film stars Jason London (Dazed and Confused) Daryl Hannah (Kill Bill movie series), Vinnie Jones (Snatch, “Galavant”), Edward Furlong (Terminator 2), Natalie Burn (The Expendables 3), Robert Davi (Die Hard), Michael Paré (Lincoln Lawyer).

Want to win a copy. You can send an email to facontest@gmail.com.  Please include "Awaken" in the subject line.

Contest ends on July 20th.

Open to U.S. residents only.

Plot Synopsis:

A group of young adults wake up on a deserted tropical island in this suspenseful thriller about black markets and body parts. Billie, a skilled martial arts expert, had been searching for her missing sister, Rina, when she was attacked and dumped on an island. She finds others like her…fit healthy adults in the prime of life, with no idea why they’ve been kidnapped, then let go, only to be hunted down like animals. Billie searches for a way off the island and finds the horrifying answers to some of her questions… a human organ harvesting operation, that picks and chooses from the strongest and most fit survivors.

"Awaken": Official Trailer 

"Freedom" Review - Written by Abraham Phillips

Freedom clearly is a faith based film. If you don’t follow a Christian viewpoint then this movie might not be for you. I felt the acting was very strong. The sets, costumes and atmosphere all was historically right. This is based on a true story about two men, during different time periods. One a black slave, the other a ship Captain transporting slaves. Samuel is a slave, and it is the year is 1856. He and his family escape from there bondage using the Underground Railroad. Throughout this ordeal, they are hunted down like animals. Now Samuel has to fight his inner emotions as his anger and rage slowly start to overtake him. He must come to terms with the idea of Freedom or Revenge. You then are introduced to the year 1748. John Newton is a slave trader, who is taking a ship full of slaves to America. How this ties in is Samuel’s great grandfather was on that ship, and was saved in more than one way by Captain Newton, and Newton was saved in more than one way. The movie is deep and haunting, and very touching at times. The only real flaws with the film is the random characters singing and the script. This is not a musical put yet it is at times. These moments play out like an odd stage style reality. There are moments where the story seems to halt and make sure they press the subject of faith, melding in the pauses and melodramatic soap opera style acting, to make their point. Also the disjointed script jumps back and forth taking away any means to have the film flow with ease.

The strongest point to the film is there is a wonderful cast of actors and actresses. The amazing and underrated Terrence Mann. Mann is always a dynamic performer, and is someone that has great skill in the art form of acting. Also starring the utterly awesome David Rasche. Always a true treat to see perform. The amazing William Sadler, another underappreciated actor that knows how to create memorable performances. Also starring as your lead Cuba Gooding Jr., he does a great job in this role. Also one of the strong points of the film is the acting by Bernhard Forcher. He captures the part of Captain Newton with a flawless understanding of the character. The shining star of the film would go to Diane Salinger. Salinger along with Terrence Mann is perfection together. There two personas and moments in the film stand out in fantastic ways. Also starring Sharon Leal. She is vibrantly beautiful and perfected in the art of performing. Her character was grand.

Freedom is lovingly shot with beauty and creates an image of perfection in that department. The film was made on location in Connecticut which just adds to its ultimate appeal. And hands down the accolades would have to go to the cinematographer Dean Cundey who aced this reality, and created a very beautiful film in the idea of scenery. Really breathless is this setting.

Looking passed the over used religious angle, which I have nothing against, but when a film over uses it, or over states it, it’s like the film is trying to push it, or use it as a point, and ends up drowning the film. Freedom did that in too much of a melodramatic way. Thankfully the acting saved it from this reality. Something I have to mention, is this is the director’s first film, and for it being a first film, I am amazed even with its flaws. Peter Cousens, is an actor, and now has turned director, and did a really good job with the film. For a first time direction, with top notch actors and actress’ I feel this film is worthy to mention, even with all its flaws.

Something else that needs to be mentioned is the amazing music throughout the film, both perfection but yet also it’s odd, weird reality. Singing is placed in spots where the slaves are in groups or singing along with a traveling group of theater people. The music is great, I being a huge music lover, really enjoyed this aspect of the film and felt it was some of the strongest moments of the film, but also was its down fall. Not that the music was bad, because it wasn’t. It’s just that it really didn’t fit. I think it wanted to be a musical, but strayed from it, and yet still added that reality. The storyline is also it’s down fall. There is too much going on, and the back and forth between the subjects of slavery and Newton was too much for one film.

Now this has the Dove Faith Based Stamp of Approval for it being a Family Film. Now this reality is odd considering this film is rated R. There is violence throughout, and many subjects, and moments that might have the kids questioning or getting upset. I think the best choice is for the parents to watch it first, and then decide if the kids can handle it.

Over-looking the flaws and watching and experiencing the acting, sets, costumes, cinematography I feel I was satisfied and entertained with this historical true story. A great drama with yes over used religious antics and some melodramatic performing.

The last thing I have to mention is why you should see this film. Yes it’s flawed with story, and oddness, but there is one performer that brings this film to an excellent degree of amazing, at least his moments. That is the performance by Jubilant Sykes. He is the very essence of music performing. His voice is utterly amazing. His moments in this film, singing is the pivotal moments, and the must see moments. If you don’t like the movie, you will like Sykes singing, because his voice is a music god.

My Rating: If I was to rate it by its music, 3 out of 5. Rating it as a Film: 2.5 out of 5.

Film Arcade.net Is Giving Away a Three Pack of DVD's Courtesy of Arc Entertainment

Arc Entertainment recently send us over 3 pack of their latest releases on DVD's. we're giving away to one reader. Films included in the three pack are "Field of Lost Shoes", "John Doe: Vigilante" and "Zarra's Law".

Want to win this three pack of DVD's. You can send an email to facontest@gmail.com.  Please include "Arc 3 Pack" in the subject line.

Contest ends on July 15th.

Open to U.S. residents only.

Plot Synopsis:

FIELD OF LOST SHOES

Synopsis: Based on a true story of the American Civil War, culminating at the Battle of New Market, May 1864. A group of teenage cadets sheltered from war at the Virginia Military Institute must confront the horrors of an adult world when they are called upon to defend the Shenandoah Valley. Leaving behind their youth, these cadets must decide what they are fighting for.

Trailer: http://arc-ent.com/Details.aspx?id=ec9b7bc7-1809-e311-9060-d4ae527c3b65&pt=Family 

JOHN DOE: VIGILANTE

Synopsis: Frustrated with a failing legal system that allows violent criminals to go free, John Doe (Bamber) begins exacting justice the only way he know how – by killing one criminal at a time. Soon he becomes a media sensation and inspires a group of copycat vigilantes, but who is the real John Doe – a pillar of justice or a cold-blooded murderer?

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBqEysLcJ-s

ZARRA'S LAW

Synopsis: When one brother is murdered, the other, a retired police detective, finds himself pulled back into the criminal world he left behind to solve the mystery surrounding his younger brother's death. Starring Tony Sirico in the role of Tony Zarra, this film climbs to a violent conclusion, fueled by passion, family loyalty and revenge.

Trailer: http://arc-ent.com/Details.aspx?id=7b78de90-676f-e411-bad0-d4ae527c3b65&pt=Genre

"Private Number" Review - Written by Jim Herling

Private Number’s plot, being about a writer working on a novel who is slowly driven crazy by forces outside his control, had me instantly interested in the movie. It’s a plot I can certainly relate to, but that’s another story. As such, I really wanted to like Private Number (written and directed by LazRael Lison), and there are certainly parts of it that are good, they are far outshone by the bad.

As Private Number begins, Michael Lane (Hal Ozsan) is hard at work on a follow-up to his successful first novel. He’s a recovering alcoholic who has been sober for a year. His wife Katherine (Nicholle Tom) really wants to have a baby, but he isn’t ready. Michael’s Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor, Jeff (Tom Sizemore) is worried about him, and Sheriff Stance, sheriff of the small town they live in, doesn’t like or trust him, either because of Michael’s alcoholic past or because he keeps to himself too much; like a lot of things about this movie it isn’t ever really made clear. Michael starts getting phone calls in the middle of the night from a private number, and the calls are just different voices asking, “Remember me?” Katherine hears the phone calls too, so we know Michael isn’t hallucinating… until he starts seeing things, too. From that point Private Number begins to try to straddle the line between ghost story and psychological thriller, but unfortunately it alternates between falling too far to one side or the other to ever really achieve the best of both worlds effect that it seems to be going for. One thing I’ll say in the plot’s defense is that it keeps you guessing as to what’s really going on. It isn’t a spoiler to say that a murder is eventually discovered, and it’s Michael’s frantic search for the truth as his sanity unravels that pushes the action forward; while it does, it does a decent job of keeping you guessing as to who the killer is, but for me at least the reveal and fallout at the end is a complete copout.

While the plot has potential, the writing tends to be clichéd and the characters are mostly just caricatures: the mistrustful sheriff, the wise sponsor, the shrill wife, etc… The directing isn’t much better, with plenty of sketchy jumps and shots that obscure the action instead of highlighting it, while simultaneously making the whole thing seem more grandiose than it is, with extra lighting and sound effects that distract more than they do anything else. The acting is of a kind as well, with both leads being one-note and over-the-top. Sizemore and Nelson could have possibly changed things, but they were only in the movie for maybe five minutes each, and never simultaneously.

In the end, Private Number is a movie that had potential, but was overshadowed by a writer/director and cast that overdid absolutely everything. Unfortunately, I can’t rate potential, so this movie gets just one star out of five.

Arc Entertainment Announces DVD Release Date for "Freedom"

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for the upcoming DVD release of "Freedom". The film stars Cuba Gooding Jr., William Sadler, Sharon Leal, David Rasche.

No special features were announced.

"Freedom" hits retail on July 14th

Plot Synopsis:

Two men separated by time are united in their search for freedom in this gripping tale of slavery, endurance, despair, and redemption. In 1856, Samuel Woodward (Academy Award Winner® Cuba Gooding, Jr. - Selma, Lee Daniels' The Butler, Red Tails) and his family escape their cruel life on a Virginian plantation and begin a dangerous trek to Canada on the Underground Railroad. Over 100 years earlier, in 1748, Captain John Newton (Bernhard Forcher - "Grimm", "Supernatural", Boys of Abu Ghraib) is about to set off across the sea with a ship full of slaves. Both men are having struggles of faith and conscience, and both will be tested severely in their journeys. Woodward is relentlessly pursued by a slave hunter, Plimpton, and his two thugs. They will stop at nothing to capture the family, dead or alive. Newton will face sickness, sorrow, and a fierce storm that will endanger the entire ship. In the end, both men will be united by a bond that spans a century and will prove to be the ultimate gift of grace.

Arc Entertainment's Action Thriller "Awaken" Arrives on DVD

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for the upcoming DVD release of "Awaken". The film stars Jason London (Dazed and Confused) Daryl Hannah (Kill Bill movie series), Vinnie Jones (Snatch, “Galavant”), Edward Furlong (Terminator 2), Natalie Burn (The Expendables 3), Robert Davi (Die Hard), Michael Paré (Lincoln Lawyer).

No special features were announced at this time.

"Awaken" hits stores on July 7th.

Plot Synopsis:

A group of young adults wake up on a deserted tropical island in this suspenseful thriller about black markets and body parts. Billie, a skilled martial arts expert, had been searching for her missing sister, Rina, when she was attacked and dumped on an island. She finds others like her…fit healthy adults in the prime of life, with no idea why they’ve been kidnapped, then let go, only to be hunted down like animals. Billie searches for a way off the island and finds the horrifying answers to some of her questions… a human organ harvesting operation, that picks and chooses from the strongest and most fit survivors.

"Private Number" Makes a Haunting Call on DVD

Arc Entertainment recently released information for the upcoming DVD release of "Private Number". The film stars Tom Sizemore (BLACK HAWK DOWN), Judd Nelson (THE BREAKFAST CLUB), Nicholle Tom (“The Nanny”) and Hal Ozsan (“Dawson’s Creek”).

No special features were announced.

"Private Number" hits retail on June 2nd.

Plot Synopsis:

A series of sinister phone calls haunt an ex-alcoholic writer as he struggles to finish a novel. Efforts to trace the calls result in dead ends, leaving the author with no choice but to solve the mystery himself. As he pieces together scant information he discovers the local police are hiding details about a horrific serial killer. In his obsessive search for answers, he loses his grip on reality, and spirals downward into a maelstrom of violence and terror.

"John Doe Vigilante" Serves Up Some Justice on DVD

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for their upcoming DVD of "John Doe Vigilante". The upcoming film stars Jamie Bamber (“Battlestar Galactica”), Daniel Lissing (“Last Resort”) and Lachy Hulme (The Matrix Revolutions).

Special features on the DVD include Audio commentary with Kelly Dolen, Stephen M. Coates and Jamie Bamber; Behind-the-Scenes: Courthouse Explosion, Gang Fight and “I’m Not John Doe;”.

"John Doe Vigilante" hits retail on April 14th.

Plot Synopsis:

Frustrated with a failing legal system that allows violent criminals to go free, John Doe (Bamber) begins exacting justice the only way he know how – by killing one criminal at a time. Soon he becomes a media sensation and inspires a group of copycat vigilantes, but who is the real John Doe – a pillar of justice or a cold-blooded murderer?

"Zarra's Law" Lays the Law on DVD

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for their upcoming release of "Zarra's Law". The upcoming film stars Brendan Fehr (“The Night Shift,” “Roswell”), Erin Cummings (The Iceman), Nick Sandow (“Orange is the New Black”), Tony Sirico (“The Sopranos,” Goodfellas), Burt Young (Rocky movies).

No special features were released at this time. "Zarra's Law hits retail on 1/13/2015.


Plot Synopsis:

Retired cop Tony (Tony Sirico) finds he is unable to forget the murder of his younger brother, who was in the mob. He’s outraged when he finds out the man he holds responsible is getting out of prison after only two years. He needs to find answers fast and if necessary, seek revenge, Italian-style. Joined by his attorney nephew, Gaetano (Brendan Fehr), he infi ltrates the seamy world of organized crime and gets lost in a labyrinth of greed, dead ends, and lies. It’s only at the violent conclusion that he discovers the shocking truth that threatens to kill him.

"Field of Lost Shoes" Review - Written by Abraham Phillips

Field of Lost Shoes (2014)

Starring: Starring: Lauren Holly, Tom Skerritt, Luke Nemward, Jason Isaacs, Keith David, David Arquette, Zach Roerig, Gale Harold, Mary Mouser, Josh Zukkerman, Nolan Gould, Max Lloyd, Sean Marquette, Erik Aude, Courtney Gains, Werner Daehn, Parker Croft, Alexa Yeames, William Flaman, Brandi Nicole Feemster, Michael Krebs

My Review:

This is based on the true story where a group of young teenagers, cadets defended The Shenandoah Valley against General Grant’s Union forces. Over 200 young men of the Virginia Military Institute give support to the main troops already fighting. This showcases the emotional ordeal through seven friends who must fight and defend. This battle would change each of them. All of them faced a new reality of war in their young lives.

If you know me I am a huge history buff, specifically when dealing with the subject matter of The Civil War. Living in Tennessee the once bloody horror filled battle fields are all around me. Monuments and so on can be found everywhere in Tennessee and I have been to countless of them. When I got word of this film I was excited because I love Civil War cinema. This is a passionate, emotional and truth filled film that left me with respect for this movie.

A true winner on the subject. Amazing recreations of the battles and amazing costumes. The movie places you there in the battle and creates an eye opening experience as you get to know these characters and the ultimate reality they face head on. You as the viewer can’t help but feel the tragic ordeals and the suffering but most of all the emotional makeup of each one of these characters become a part of you.

The storyline is so believable and displayed through actions and character chemistry that is able to make you apart of the battle and the emotional aftermath of this horrible war. Directed strong in the reality setting. The movie is able to flow on screen as if another time and another place. You the viewer are planted smack in the middle of a different time and of different beliefs but most of all the inner in-depth reality of a moment in history that forever stains the history of America. The Civil War was a harsh and destructive death bed of tears and agony. Thousands upon thousands perished in a bloody ordeal that killed brother, fathers, mothers and destroyed families as they fought against each other in unrelenting savagery and pain. This film shows a personal side to this reality in history that should never be forgotten.

What makes this film truly stand out and ultimately becomes a part of the viewer is the feel as if it’s real. Its production and set up gives a stamp of historical concepts. It’s a film that showcased detail and the ultimate love for showcasing this horrible moment in American history. It gave an outlet to a subject that is never old because of the reality that America fought itself, on its own land.

Something that stands out is the direction and cinematography. Sean McNamara directed a film of war and the emotional side of war. He was able to craft a film that seemed so real and so personal and so in-depth into a part of history that never gets old in telling or showcasing what happened. He created a nice, tight, structured film that displays everything it needed to do and yet did so much more as the film unfolded. McNamara had vision of what he wanted to do and accomplished it.

The next powerhouse would have to go to Brad Shield. His cinematography is excellence and crafts itself on screen that makes a total splash and ultimate control of the film. All the sceneries and shots, small and long are truly memorable in that it places you there among the horrors and the personal emotions of each character. The direction is by a veteran of Hollywood both small and big from producing and writing to directing.

Sean McNamara directed Field of Lost Shoes with a quality of respect for the subject. He has been a part of my movie loving life since I was a small little kid. Producing some of my favorite TV shows and directing them also. From Kid films to kid shows and beyond he has a talent in capturing the performers in the way he wishes them to own their parts. I think he did this low-budget war film justice with his direction.

The film takes place in 1864 in Virginia. The locations, costumes and weapons bleed from the past into a present film. You as the viewer watch a certain part of the Civil War unfold as if it’s before your eyes. Dave Kennedy and Thomas Farrell wrote a script that came to life. They were able to build the characters and the situations. Both of them also produced the film.

One of the true stand out realities to the film is the overall acting by all involved. I have to pin point Luke Benward who plays the character of John Wise. He is such a talented young man and always is able to capture his characters to a clarity of understanding and always gives them a personal emotional concept as if the character is real. I have watched him grow up in cinema from a small little boy in We Were Soldiers, until now as a young man.

One of my favorite acting performers of the day would have to go to Jason Isaacs. Always a true treat to see his craft at work. Always an amazing performer. He is able to hold the viewer in every performance. His roles never lack. Even if the movie stinks, his characters always stand out. The role of John C. Breckinridge is no different. He owns the character in this movie and sticks out as one of the memorable moments.

This also stars many acting veterans to the film world the amazing Tom Skerritt. Always a true treat to see. He is one of the great performers in all of cinema. The stunning much underrated powerhouse Keith David. I have grown up watching him in countless cinema both small and large. The one and only beautiful Laruen Holly and someone that has grown on me in showcasing his dramatic acting David Arquette with the likes of movies like The Grey Zone and now Field of Lost Shoes. Also starring the wonderful talented Gale Harold who is a true underrated powerhouse of acting. He creates perfection in his many performance and the role of Major Charles Semple is no Different.

This has an amazing cast of young actors that know how to hold an audience through their performances and actions that they make seem real. With the combining of direction and the civil war time reality, the movie showcases itself a memorable piece of War Cinema, yet it becomes a drama in the reality of each of these people’s lives and the torment and horrors of this ghastly war of innocence slain because of a horrible stain in history.

This is what I would call a low-budget Civil War film that try’s it’s hardest to become something inside the greats of this style of cinema. I think the ultimate judge to this film is going to be in the eyes of the beholder. Those who love Civil War cinema and historical moments in this horrible yet necessary war will enjoy this low-budget film. I feel each watcher of the movie is going to take something from it. Some will absolutely love and some will not. You as the watcher can tell, that it’s a low budget film at times but I over look this reality because the story works. The reality of history displays itself in a believable reality that the viewer can’t help but feel for these young troops.

There have been negative reviews on this film where reviewers say it has no standing against other Great War films like Gettysburg or Gods and Generals and so on. I think this generation and a lot of the reviewers out there just don't get this reality of history anymore and the importance and ultimate heartbreak that this war was. I feel we have lost the understanding that the Civil War was a battle of fathers, sons and average people fighting. Most of these men, mainly young took up the gun to defend or fight for what they believe in. These were not hardened war trained individuals. This where boys, young men and many died. First off there was more to this war than Gettysburg. Yes Gettysburg was a main part of the war but it was just a fraction. Field of Shoes showcases one of the other battles. The Civil War was about many areas being defended. These young men held, fought and defended. This movie gives a voice to individuals that bled but ultimately fought and held their own. Most of comments have been Civil War reenacter’s will like this movie and that’s about all. I beg to differ, yes they will love it but the lover of history, the researcher of Civil War, and the true movie enthusiast I feel will enjoy it.

I enjoyed this film. It’s a low-budget film that held its own and created a memorable piece of cinema.

My Rating: 3 out of 5

Review by Abraham Phillips

Civil War Film "Field of Lost Shoes" Hits DVD in December

Arc Entertainment recently released DVD information for their upcoming release of "Field of Lost Shoes". The upcoming film stars David Arquette, Luke Benward, Max Lloyd-Jones, Zach Roerig, Lauren Holly, Mary Mouser, Nolan Gould, Jason Isaacs, Tom Skerritt.

No special features were announced at this time. "Field of Lost Shoes" hits stores on December 2nd.

Plot Synopsis:

Based on a true story of the American Civil War, this film shows the bravery of a group of teenage cadets who were called upon to defend the Shenandoah Valley against General Grant’s (Tom Skerritt) Union forces, under the leadership of Captain Henry DuPont (David Arquette). 274 young men from the Virginia Military Institute are ordered to provide support for the more seasoned troops in the strategic battle. When the Confederate soldiers are outnumbered, General John C. Breckenridge (John Isaacs) makes the agonizing decision to send the young men into the melee. A band of seven friends, each with their own set of values and feelings about the war, soon come together as one when faced with the most shattering moments of their young lives.

"Fields of Lost Shoes": Official Trailer

"Lullaby" Review - Written by Abraham Phillips

Lullaby (2014)

Starring: Amy Adams, Garrett Hedlund, Jessica Brown Findlay, Terrence Howard, Richard Jenkins, Daniel Sunjata, Jennifer Hudson, Anne Archer

Plot: A man who's estranged from his family receives word that his father has chosen to take himself off life support within 48 hours.

My Review and Thoughts:

This is a wonderful and emotional film. It grabs at the heartstrings. It makes you think. It makes you fall in love with a wonderful cast of dynamic characters that are flawlessly performed on screen by an all-star ensemble of a cast. I think this was directed wonderfully. I believe the storyline came together in a believable fashion. I think the viewer becomes a part of the overall story. You can relate to the characters. You seem to meld into the mindset and the actions and the emotional reality of the story. The storyline is something we all can become a part of and relate to and feel like we have gone through it or know someone that has gone through it.

It shocks me that this movie has got such bad ratings. The critics are absolutely wrong on this one. This is a touching story. A wake up call so you can say what needs to be said and done before it’s too late. Like I say this is a film that is a true drama that needs to be seen. It's almost as if coming to a point in your life when you realize what needs to be done, has to be done now, there's a deadline and it makes you experience that reality.

It's a heartwarming and sad and funny at times film. Nice originality and a relatable cast, relatable story and a flow of the direction, we all can become a part of. The film is very fresh. It seems like it's a moment of everyday life that you come in-sync with at what's taking place. At times you laugh, you’re moved through an emotional journey of life and death and choices.

What needs to be talked about is the acting performances by Garrett Hedlund and Richard Jenkins. Flawless and I mean absolutely extraordinarily flawless. The whole cast works and is amazing. Your main character is Jonathan played by Garrett who starts out on an airplane inbound for New York. His dad, played by Jenkins wishes to end his life by pulling the plug which is the only thing keeping him alive. Jonathan’s sister Karen played wonderful by Downtown Abbey’s actress Jessica Brown Findley is filing a petition with the court to stop her father from doing so. So begins the journey and depressing reality and the ultimate struggle coming to terms with hard choices and also the ability to let go. The film displays itself in memorable moments and an acting flare of choices and reality and a gifted scenario of what true love is and the ability to understand family.

This is directed and written by an actor and producer Andrew Levitas. This is his first feature film that he directed and wrote and in my viewpoint, he aced it. I can't wait to see future films because he truly owned it and created an amazing fresh, sad, emotional and yet truly touching and poignant film.

Life is too short. Make sure you tell what needs to be told and love. Appreciate the ones around you.

I recommend this film. Jenkins is such a god of performers. Garrett Hedlund is priceless. Amy Adams is stunning. Terrance Howard is brilliant. Jennifer Hudson shines and the whole cast performs and works off each other in thoughtful ways of emotions and laughter.

Reviewed by: Abraham Phillips

My Review Rating: 4 out of 5

Heartfelt Drama "Lullaby" Heads into Way to DVD

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for their upcoming DVD release of "Lullaby" The film features an all star cast that includes Garrett Hedlund (Tron: Legacy, Inside Llewyn Davis, Pan), Academy Award Nominee Richard Jenkins (The Visitor, Eat, Pray, Love), Academy Award Nominee Amy Adams (American Hustle, Her, The Fighter), Jessica Brown Findlay (Winter's Tale and PBS's “Downton Abbey”), Academy Award Nominee Anne Archer (Clear and Present Danger, Fatal Attraction), Academy Award Nominee Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow, Iron Man), Academy Award Winner Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls) and Jessica Barden (Hanna).

No special features were announced at this time. "Lullaby" hits stores on July 27th.

Press Release:

ARC Entertainment brings you the heart-felt drama LULABY. Written and directed by acclaimed fine artist Andrew Levitas (Hellbent, Beauty Shop), the film stars Garrett Hedlund (Tron: Legacy, Inside Llewyn Davis, Pan), Academy Award Nominee Richard Jenkins (The Visitor, Eat, Pray, Love), Academy Award Nominee Amy Adams (American Hustle, Her, The Fighter), Jessica Brown Findlay (Winter's Tale and PBS's “Downton Abbey”), Academy Award Nominee Anne Archer (Clear and Present Danger, Fatal Attraction), Academy Award Nominee Terrence Howard (Hustle & Flow, Iron Man), Academy Award Winner Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls) and Jessica Barden (Hanna).
LULLABY will be available on DVD for an SRP of $20.99 on July 29, 2014.

Estranged from his family, Jonathan (Hedlund) discovers his father has decided to take himself off life support in forty-eight hours' time. During this intensely condensed period, a lifetime of drama plays out. Robert (Jenkins) fights a zero sum game to reclaim all that his illness stole from his family. A debate rages on patients' rights and what it truly means to be free. Jonathan reconciles with his father, reconnects with his mother (Archer), sister (Brown-Findlay), and his love (Adams) and reclaims his voice through two unlikely catalysts - a young, wise-beyond-her-years patient (Barden) and a no-nonsense nurse (Hudson). Through this intensely life affirming prism, an unexpected and powerful journey of love, laughter, and forgiveness unfolds.

Action Thriller "Beyond the Trophy Makes its Debut on DVD

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for the upcoming DVD release of "Beyond the Trophy". The upcoming film stars Michael Madsen, Eric Roberts and Tommy "Tiny" Lister.

No special features were announced for this release at this time. "Beyond the Trophy" hits stores on June 3rd.

Plot Synopsis:

BEYOND THE TROPHY tells the story of men’s obsession with power and how far they will go to claim the “prize”.  Two rival gangs in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, led by Gino (Robert Miano) and Cole (Michael Madsen), are vying for control.  Danny (Michael Masini), an LAPD undercover police detective, goes deep into gangland to infiltrate one gang to bring down both. Along the way, he becomes entangled with the beautiful and seductive Angela (Ali Costello), whose relationship with her husband Jake and mob leader Gino makes her the focal point of an intoxicating romantic equation-with deadly consequences. Her dream is to escape the wrath of evil abusive men, and find the love she never knew.

Family Film "Angels in Stardust" Hits DVD Stores in March

Arc Entertainment recently send us over information for their upcoming DVD release for "Angels in Stardust". The family film stars Alicia Silverstone (Clueless), AJ Michalka (Super 8), Billy Burke (Twilight movies, Revolution). 

No Special Features were announced at this time. "Angels in Stardust" hits stores on 3/25.

Plot Synopsis:

Vallie Sue (AJ Michalka), a young teenager with big dreams, lives in a desolate, gritty little town, built on the site of an old drive-in movie theater. The townspeople and her own mother (Alicia Silverstone) barely pay attention to her, but she finds solace from a mystical cowboy and a former enemy. With their help, she finds the courage and strength to reach her potential without losing her heart.

Indie Western "Sweetwater" Rides its Way to DVD and Blu-Ray

 

Arc Entertainment recently send us information for the upcoming DVD and Blu-Ray release of "Sweetwater", which played at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. The film stars Emmy and Golden Globe nominee January Jones (TV’s Mad Men), Academy Award nominee and Golden Globe winner Ed Harris (Pollock, A History of Violence) and Jason Isaacs (Harry Potter series).

No special features were announced for this release. "Sweetwater" hits stores on 12/31.

Plot Synopsis:

ARC Entertainment announces the release of Sweetwater, starring Emmy and Golden Globe nominee January Jones (TV’s Mad Men), Academy Award nominee and Golden Globe winner Ed Harris (Pollock, A History of Violence) and Jason Isaacs (Harry Potter series). Directed by Logan Miller (Touching Home), Sweetwater is available on DVD for an SRP of $20.99 and Blu-ray for an SRP of $24.99 on Dec. 31, 2013.

In the late 1800’s, a beautiful former prostitute (January Jones) is trying to build an honest life with her husband in the rugged plains of New Mexico. When she catches the eye of a sadistic and powerful religious leader (Jason Isaacs), her life is violently turned upside down. She embarks on a bloody course of vengeance with the assistance of a renegade sheriff (Ed Harris) who has violent tendencies of his own.