George Feltenstein joins the podcast to announce six October Blu-ray releases, including three highly-requested horror classics. George provides background on each film or TV series, the new HD master, and more clarification on the extras that will be included.  And he always drops some knowledge about what is being worked on for the future. There is no better way to learn about what is on the Warner Archive schedule than to hear directly from George.Purchase links are not yet available. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

The Stars Shine in our review of six new Blu-rays from the Warner Archive. To begin, George Feltenstein takes us through the intricate process of restoring the 1940 Technicolor epic "Northwest Passage," starring Spencer Tracy, discussing the hurdles of working with nitrate negatives and the impressive results. This cinema classic from King Vidor brims with adventure and beautiful landscapes that look better than ever.Our reviews continue as we spotlight Clark Gable and Norma Shearer's unforgettable performances in the 1939 MGM classic "Idiot's Delight." George explains director Clarence Brown's anti-war messaging and details the inclusion of both the international and American endings to the film.Next, we review the 1965 musical "Harum Scarum" starring Elvis in a comedy set in the deserts of Arabia. Gorgeous sets filled with beautiful women plus Elvis' trademark rock'n'roll songs make this a pop hit for Elvis fans.  Finally, we shine a light on three forgotten gems that deserve a second look.  We start with the 1995 period drama "The Stars Fell on Henrietta" starring Robert Duvall in an unforgettable performance and supporting actors Aidan Quinn, Frances Fisher, and Brian Dennehy.  Next, we highlight Sissy Spacek's powerful role in the 1985 film "Marie, A True Story." Directed Roger Donaldson, this film has a terrific script and a wonderful supporting cast that includes Jeff Daniels, Morgan Freeman, and Fred Thompson. And finally, there is the heartwarming 1994 Irish film "War of the Buttons," a gem of a family film that deserves a wider audience.Tune in for an episode brimming with film reviews, restoration insights, and a profound appreciation for cinematic history!  As always, we provide a full review of each film, a detailed explanation of the HD restoration, and background on all of the included extras.NORTHWEST PASSAGE (1940) IDIOT’S DELIGHT (1939)HARUM SCARUM (1965)MARIE: A TRUE STORY (1985)THE STARS FELL ON HENRIETTA (1995)WAR OF THE BUTTONS (1994) The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

George Feltenstein joins the podcast to update us on some recent happenings with the Warner Archive and to announce six September Blu-ray releases, including a highly requested noir, a musical, and more Hanna Barbara.  George provides background on each film, the new HD master, and all of the extras that are included.  And he always drops some knowledge about what is being worked on for the future. There is no better way to learn about what is on the Warner Archive schedule than to hear directly from George.Purchase links are not yet available. Warner Archive Store">Warner Archive Store on AmazonSupport the podcast by shopping with our Amazon Affiliate linkDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Film noir aficionados and classic film lovers alike are in for a treat with our latest episode of "The Extras." Join us as George Feltenstein, a true cinema historian, shares his deep knowledge about Warner Archive's June Blu-ray releases. We start off with a gripping discussion on the film noir gem "Act of Violence," exploring its compelling narrative, Fred Zinnemann's expert direction, and the standout performances from Van Heflin, Robert Ryan, and Janet Leigh.Switching gears, we highlight Alfred Hitchcock's rare foray into comedy with "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," starring the brilliant Carole Lombard and Robert Montgomery. Discover the delightful chemistry between the leads and Hitchcock's unique touch on the screwball genre. Next, we celebrate the musical legacy of Ida Lupino with a deep dive into the 1947 film "The Man I Love." Uncover the fascinating story behind the film's original cut and the restoration of its missing six minutes of footage, including the song "Bill" by Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein II, and P.G. Wodehouse. We end with a review of the melodrama "The Shining Hour" (1938) from acclaimed director Frank Borzage and showcasing standout performances by Joan Crawford, Margaret Sullavan, and Fay Bainter.We provide a full review of each film, a detailed explanation of the HD restoration, and background all of the included extras.Purchase links:THE MAN I LOVE (1947)MR. & MRS. SMITH  (1941)ACT OF VIOLENCE (1948)THE SHINING HOUR (1938) The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Hear directly from George Feltenstein as he announces the Warner Archive's August Blu-ray releases, including a highly requested Hanna Barbera series and two MGM Technicolor musicals.  George provides background on each film, the new HD master, and all of the extras that are included.  And he always drops some knowledge about what is being worked on for the future. There is no better way to learn about what is on the Warner Archive schedule than to hear directly from George.TOP CAT: The Complete Series Blu-rayThree Little Words Blu-rayWords and Music Blu-rayBlack Belt Jones Blu-rayBoulevard Nights Blu-ray Warner Archive Store">Warner Archive Store on AmazonSupport the podcast by shopping with our Amazon Affiliate linkDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Today, we sit down with Danny Bilson, co-creator and executive producer of the 1990-91 series "The Flash," and The Flash himself, John Wesley Shipp, to review the recent Blu-ray release and to revisit their memories of the show.  This conversation is a real treat as Danny doesn't attend fan conventions so you'll hear things possibly revealed for the first time.  We discuss the suit, the writing and production, guest stars, why it was canceled, and the show's enduring legacy. This is an hour filled with remembrances and behind-the-scenes stories that Flash fans will love.Purchase the new Blu-ray on Amazon:THE FLASH: The Original Series (1990-91) Blu-rayMore podcast details:Discover how the high-definition upgrade has unveiled stunning details that were previously hidden, and learn about the pivotal choice to finish the effects on film, a decision that has preserved its quality for modern audiences. Join us as we tackle the nuts and bolts of superhero costuming with John Wesley Shipp’s firsthand experiences in the Flash suit. Hear about the suit’s practical challenges, from its weight to its heat retention, and the innovative solutions the team developed to maintain both comfort and visual appeal. John shares his initial reactions to seeing himself suited up as the Scarlet Speedster and reflects on the collaborative efforts that made his portrayal of Barry Allen so compelling.Explore the nostalgia and legacy of "The Flash" TV series with us, featuring insights into the show’s unique tone influenced by comic books and Tim Burton's Batman. Danny and John discuss the camaraderie among the cast and crew, the influence of film noir and literature on the show's style, and the impact of the guest stars, including the unforgettable Mark Hamill as the Trickster. Despite the series’ struggles with time slots and critical reception, its enduring charm and innovative spirit shine through in this Blu-ray release, highlighting its place as a pioneer in superhero television. Don’t miss out on this captivating exploration of a 90s classic. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Get ready to uncover the magic behind the iconic series finale of the 1990-91 TV show "The Flash" with exclusive insights from creators/executive producers Danny Bilson and Paul DeMeo. Recorded as an audio commentary in 2006, our episode promises to transport you back to Central City, offering a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories and creative decisions that brought the beloved hero to life. From the unforgettable performance of Mark Hamill as the Trickster to the evolution of the Flash's pilot, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the work that went into this groundbreaking show. We will reflect on John Wesley Shipp's experience in the titular role, the late-night shoots, and memorable stunts, including the iconic trickster rocket sled. Finally, our commentary wraps up with an emotional goodbye and a glimpse into the creative minds that shaped "The Flash." Enjoy as a podcast episode, or play as an audio commentary while you are watching the "Trial of the Trickster" episode on the new Blu-ray release from the Warner Archive.Purchase your Blu-ray on Amazon: THE FLASH: The Original Series Blu-ray (releases June 25, 2024)The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Animation historian Jerry Beck opens the vault to the newly launched MeTV Toons channel, airing on June 25th.  Get ready to be taken behind the scenes as we delve into the collaborative efforts between Weigel Broadcasting and Warner Brothers Discovery to create the only classic animation channel available for animation fans. Jerry gives us exclusive insights into the rich lineup of content, special projects he is involved with, and how to find the channel in your local area.Links:MeTVTOONS.com WebsiteTV Cartoons that Time Forgot Facebook PageAnimation Scoop WebsiteCartoon Research Website The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Join us as we review four new May Blu-ray releases with George Feltenstein of the Warner Archive.Ever wondered how a 92-year-old horror film could still send chills down your spine? Discover the turbulent production and masterful restoration of "The Mask of Fu Manchu," featuring Boris Karloff in his first major horror role with dialogue and Myrna Loy as his chilling yet captivating daughter. Learn about the meticulous process that brought this pre-code gem to life on Blu-ray, using a stunning 4K scan of the original nitrate camera negative.As we shift our focus to the 1960s, we explore Francis Ford Coppola's early works, including "You're a Big Boy Now" and "The Rain People." Hear how Coppola's vibrant depiction of New York City and his exploration of feminist themes mark the beginning of his illustrious directorial journey.  George also provides background on working with American Zoetrope on the new 4K restoration.To wrap up, we touch on the highly requested Blu-ray release of "Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island" and its sequel, celebrating their timeless appeal and continued fan adoration.Purchase links:THE MASK OF FU MANCHU (1932)SCOOBY-DOO ON ZOMBIE ISLAND (1998) and SCOOBY-DOO RETURN TO ZOMBIE ISLAND (2019)YOU'RE A BIG BOY NOW (1966)THE RAIN PEOPLE (1969) The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Hear directly from George Feltenstein as he announces the Warner Archive's July Blu-ray releases, ranging from a Scooby-Doo double feature to an often requested Spencer Tracy Technicolor film.  George provides background on each film, the new HD master, and all of the extras that are included.  And he always drops some knowledge about what is being worked on for the future. There is no better way to learn about what is on the Warner Archive schedule than to hear directly from George.Purchase links are not yet available. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

What do you get when you team 3 STARS - COOPER, HEPBURN, & TAYLOR with 3 all-time great DIRECTORS in WYLER, ZINNEMANN, & MANN?  Three amazing films, of course, in "The Nun's Story," "Friendly Persuasion," & "Devil's Doorway."  George Feltenstein of the Warner Archive joins the podcast to review these three classics from the 1950s that now look better than ever in high-definition Blu-ray.  We go through the superb performances in each film, the keen-eyed direction from these film masters, and the fantastic restoration and package of extras that the Warner Archive has created for each release.Purchase links:THE NUN'S STORY (1959)FRIENDLY PERSUASION (1956)DEVIL’S DOORWAY (1950)  The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Film Historians Julie Kirgo and Alan K Rode join the podcast to traverse the dusty trails and moral complexities of the timeless Western "High Noon."  The new 4K UHD release from Kino Lorber is highlighted by their new  audio commentaries and we get a preview of their insights into what makes this film so enduring.  Along the way we explore screenwriter Carl Foreman and the Hollywood Blacklist, why Gary Cooper was the right choice for the part of Marshall Will Kane, Katie Jurado's portrayal as a strong, independent Mexican woman, Fred Zinnemann's direction, Floyd Crosby's cinematography, Dimitri Tiomkin's score, and the wealth of character actors that fill out the movie. Purchase links:HIGH NOON 4KUHDHIGH NOON BLU-RAYHIGH NOON: The Hollywood Blacklist and the Making of an American Classic - BookAlan K. Rode website Julie Kirgo Facebook The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

In this short Bonus episode, we catch up with Arnold Leibovit, the producer behind the restored Puppetoon series.  We discuss his recent Rondo Hatten award for the Best Blu-ray Collection.  And then he provides background on the upcoming Flights of Fantasy event at LA's Regency Village Theater, where Arnold promises an evening of restored cinematic wonders. Expect a 4K spectacle with "War of the Worlds," a vibrant array of Puppetoons, and a heartfelt nod to Ann Robinson's legacy, with the potential for surprise guests and Joe Dante's celebrated presence to add to the evening’s luster. We wrap up with a sneak peek at "Puppetunes Volume Four," which promises to continue the great preservation work of the previous volumes.Learn more or purchase tickets to the "Flights of Fantasy"Purchase The Puppetoon Movie Vol. 3 The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Hear directly from George Feltenstein as he announces the Warner Archive's June Blu-ray releases, ranging from a long-requested Alfred Hitchcock film to a 1990 TV series.  George provides background on each film or TV series, the new HD master, and all of the extras that are included.  And he always drops some knowledge about what is being worked on for the future. There is no better way to learn about what is on the Warner Archive schedule than to hear directly from George.Purchase links are not yet available. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

We're peeling back the curtain on Warner Archive's March releases, with a special nod to the unexpected Blu-ray revival of the classic TV Western "Colt .45."  Next we review the John Ford and John Wayne western "3 Godfathers" (1948) and its redemption story for the outlaws.  Three modern classics are next, with the timely "The Little Drummer Girl," (1984), the inspiring "Stand and Deliver," (1988), and the action-comedy "Money Talks" (1997).  We jump back to the 1920s  with a review of the delightful silent double feature "The Boob/Why Be Good" and a hint at future silent film releases. We wrap up with director Raoul Walsh's "They Drive By Night" (1940), which is loaded with terrific performances by classic Hollywood favorites George Raft, Humphrey Bogart, Ann Sheridan, and Ida Lupino. We provide a review of each film,  the restoration, and all of the extras to help you decide if you want to add it to your physical media collection.Purchase links:COLT .45 (1957-1960) THE COMPLETE SERIES Blu-ray3 GODFATHERS (1948)  Blu-rayTHEY DRIVE BY NIGHT (1940)  Blu-rayTHE BOOB and WHY BE GOOD? (1926/29) Blu-raySTAND AND DELIVER (1988) Blu-rayMONEY TALKS (1997) Blu-rayTHE LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL (1984) Blu-rayIf you pre-ordered the MONEY TALKS Blu-ray you may have received a disc with 2.0 instead of 5.1 audio. If that is you, send an email to the following address to request a replacement disc:  avdefreturns@alliedvaughn.com The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Scott McGee is TCM's Senior Director of Original Productions and co-programmer of the TCM Classic Film Festival.  He joins the podcast to talk about the 30th anniversary of TCM and how the network is celebrating this milestone event through short documentary videos and on-air programming.  He also previews the 15th TCM Classic Film Festival.  This year's theme is "Most Wanted: Crime and Justice in Film" and Scotthighlights some of the films and stars that will attend.  We also discuss the films that are programmed for the 100th-anniversary celebrations of both Columbia Pictures and MGM Studios.  If you plan on attending the festival, this is a great preview of what you can expect.  If you can't attend, you'll still enjoy our celebration of TCM's 30th anniversary and the network's continued mission to preserve and celebrate classic cinema.Link to video:  The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship: 30 Years of TCMTCM Classic Film Festival website with ticket and programming informationTCM Website The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Animation historians Jerry Beck and George Feltenstein of the Warner Archive  join the podcast to discuss the LOONEY TUNES COLLECTOR’S CHOICE VOL 3 Blu-ray, which released on March 10, 2024. We talk about the selection process, discuss a few key restorations, and preview some of the 25 cartoons to give you an idea of what you can expect.  Cartoons discussed in detail in the podcast include "Honeymoon Hotel," "Mr. and Mrs. Is the Name," "Cinderella Meets Fella," "Pre-Hysterical Hare," "Riff Raffy Daffy," "War and Pieces," Wet Hare," "Mexican Joyride," and more. If you’re a fan of Looney Tunes or Warner Bros. Animation, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.Note: Hare-Breadth Hurry is on LTCC Vol. 2Support more Looney Tunes Collector's Choice releases by purchasing Volume 3 right away!Available on Amazon:LOONEY TUNES COLLECTOR’S CHOICE VOL 3 Blu-ray Also available:LOONEY TUNES COLLECTOR’S CHOICE VOL 2 Blu-ray LOONEY TUNES COLLECTOR’S CHOICE VOL 1 Blu-ray  The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

This Warner Archive 15th Anniversary BONUS episode is chocked full of listener calls of appreciation for George Feltenstein and the Warner Archive. Each story shared in this episode is a thread in the rich tapestry of our collective film heritage—a heritage that Warner Archive has been meticulously weaving for 15 years, bringing joy, inspiration, and a sense of community to movie buffs everywhere. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

George Feltenstein joins the podcast for a brief update to the Warner Archive April release schedule. Three films -  'Friendly Persuasion,' 'The Nun's Story,' and 'You're a Big Boy Now' are now moving from April 30th to a May 14th release. The other three titles - 'The Mask of Fu Manchu,' "The Rain People,' and the 'Scooby-Doo Zombie Island' double feature will still be released on April 30th.  George also announces the unexpected treat of 'Devil's Doorway' arriving ahead of schedule on April 30th, and he provides background on the film, the restoration, and the extras that are included.Pre-orders will be posted when available. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

George Feltenstein joins the podcast for a celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Warner Archive.  George retraces the early history and honors several Warner Bros executives who initiated the concept and development of WAC.   He recalls the launch event on March 23, 2009 with Debbie Reynolds.  And he shares his gratitude for the devoted fans who have championed Warner Archive's mission, propelling it from a fledgling DVD on-demand service to an industry leader revered for its Blu-ray collections and commitment to restoration excellence.We then end the podcast with some of the many heartfelt phone calls left by Warner Archive devotees sharing what the archive means to them, and their appreciation of George Feltenstein and the staff at the Warner Archive. The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv