Custard’s Pick of UK Blu Ray Releases 4th April 2011

It’s that time of the week again to see what films are being released in the UK next week. Anything worth picking up? Custard has a gander.

I know I am a day late. Sorry. But here are my pick of the new releases coming on Blu Ray for us week beginning 4th April :-

Megamind

Megamind

Packed with high-flying action and non-stop laughs, Megamind puts a whole new hilarious twist on the superhero movie. Super villain Megamind’s (Will Ferrell) dreams have come true when he conquers the city’s protector, Metro Man (Brad Pitt), gaining control of Metro City. But when a new villain (Jonah Hill) is created and chaos runs rampant, the world’s biggest “mind” and his comic sidekick Minion (David Cross) might actually save the day.

Lots of fun this one, great for all the family. Check out my daughters review of it here.

IMDb : 7.3/10

The American

The American

Academy Award winner George Clooney stars in the title role of this suspense thriller. As an assassin, Jack (played by Mr. Clooney) is constantly on the move and always alone. After a job in Sweden ends more harshly than expected for this American abroad, Jack retreats to the Italian countryside. He relishes being away from death for a spell as he holes up in a small medieval town.

While there, Jack takes an assignment to construct a weapon for a mysterious contact, Mathilde (Thekla Reuten). Savoring the peaceful quietude he finds in the mountains of Abruzzo, Jack accepts the friendship of local priest Father Benedetto (Paolo Bonacelli) and pursues a torrid liaison with a beautiful woman, Clara (Violante Placido). Jack and Clara’s time together evolves into a romance, one seemingly free of danger. But by stepping out of the shadows, Jack may be tempting fate.

I haven’t seen this film yet. I do love George Clooney in most things. It seems to get a real mixed bag of reviews, with either LOVE it or HATE it. Seems a bit of a Marmite film.

IMDb : 6.6/10

Somewhere

Somewhere

An intimate story set in contemporary Los Angeles, Somewhere is a witty, moving and empathetic look into the orbit of Hollywood actor Johnny Marco (played by Stephen Dorff).
We join Marco as he stumbles through a life of excess, living out of the legendary Chateau Marmont Hotel; he has a Ferrari to drive around in, and a constant stream of girls and pills to stay in with. Comfortably numbed, Johnny drifts along.
Following an unexpected visit from his 11-year-old daughter, Cleo (played wonderfully by Elle Fanning), their encounters encourage Johnny to face up to where he is with life, and confront the question that at some point we all must; which path in life will you take?

Filmed entirely on location, Somewhere reunites Sofia Coppola with her Lost in Translation editor Sarah Flack and production designer Anne Ross. Sofia’s brother Roman Coppola takes on the role of producer, whilst her father Francis Ford Coppola is executive producer. The films atmospheric soundtrack is written by Grammy Award winning French band “Phoenix”.

With Sofia Coppola behind the wheel you are expecting something good right? Well, it seems from the reviews of the film get yourself comfy its going to be a long slow affair. With drawn out scenes and lots of points being nailed home it may not suit everyone’s taste. I like Mr Dwarf, er I mean Dorff so the jury is out for me.

IMDb : 6.5/10

The Karate Kid

The Karate Kid

12-year-old Dre Parker could’ve been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother’s latest career move has landed him in China. Dre immediately falls for his classmate Mei Ying – and the feeling is mutual – but cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, Dre’s feelings make an enemy of the class bully, Cheng.
In the land of kung fu, Dre knows only a little karate, and Cheng puts “the karate kid” on the floor with ease. With no friends in a strange land, Dre has nowhere to turn but maintenance man Mr. Han, who is secretly a master of kung fu. As Han teaches Dre that kung fu is not about punches and parries, but maturity and calm, Dre realizes that facing down the bullies will be the fight of his life.

OK, we have to get over the fact that it is NOT karate but kung fu. We also have to forgive the Smith family for trying to take over the world with their children! The Karate kid reboot is actually quite a good watch. I enjoyed it, Smith is impressive for one so young, Chan is always good value. Although the report of his death is still trending on Twitter, we can confirm that it is a hoax!!

IMDb : 6.2/10

Some good ones in there, I may have to indulge myself.