LATEST ADDITIONS

It’s been quite a year for Sony. The Japanese brand has set new standards in the TV world, and introduced a whole new product category with its 4K TVs and projectors. And now it’s continuing this return to form with its latest mid-range projector, the VPL-HW50ES.

Ignoring the forgettable made-for-DVD sequels, this latest slice of …Pie picks up the story of the original characters as they return to their home town for a high school reunion. Cue a contrived and lacklustre comedy that fails in its goal of recapturing the charm and wit of the original film. This generous hi-def package serves up two cuts of the movie with richly coloured AVC 1.85:1 1080p imagery and front-heavy DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio. Extras include an audio commentary from the writers and directors, an on-screen cast commentary and much, much more.

Even the marvellous Elizabeth Olsen can't save this abominable remake of the Spanish-language thriller of the same name (reviewed in HCC issue 198). While it pulls off the same 'entirely shot in one take' style as the original version, it makes a total mess of everything else (particularly the climax). And while this Blu-ray's DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix proves satisfying, the clarity of the AVC 1.85:1 1080p only highlights the ugly digital photography which is plagued by extreme banding in areas of bright light.

Written and produced by Oren 'Paranormal Activity' Peli, this Hills Have Eyes rip-off follows a group of tourists who visit an abandoned town devastated by the Chernobyl meltdown, only to discover that they're not alone. While the film struggles to live up to its fascinating setting, this Blu-ray's AVC 1.85:1 1080p transfer and DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack at least make sure that it looks and sounds extremely atmospheric throughout. Meagre extras take the form of a deleted scene, an alternate ending, a short 'Chernobyl Conspiracy' video, a fake ad for 'Uri's Extreme Tours' and the trailer