Westworld

On February 24, Arrow Video presents the blockbuster science fiction western Westworld in its global 4K UHD debut. Director and writer Michael Crichton (author of the bestselling novel Jurassic Park) thrilled and scared viewers with what technology can do at an immersive amusement park. The Limited Edition release features a brand new 4K restoration from the original negative by Arrow Films, hours of special features, and newly commissioned extras. There is also a Blu-ray release.

Peter Martin (Richard Benjamin, Love at First Bite) and John Blane (James Brolin, The Amityville Horror) visit the futuristic Delos resort, which allows guests to fully experience life in medieval times, the Roman era, and the American West. Martin and Blane choose to be cowboys in Westworld, ready for a rip-roaring escape from reality. What sets Westworld apart from a family-friendly theme park like Disneyland’s Frontierland is that its employees are androids, designed to be fully indulged by the guests. The android locals won’t shoot back in a duel or resist being taken to bed. This proves useful as Martin and Blane repeatedly fire their six-shooters at The Gunslinger (Yul Brynner, The Magnificent Seven) to sharpen their showdown skills. It’s the holiday of a lifetime until something goes wrong with the park’s computer programming. Suddenly, the androids are no longer subservient to the humans. Can the duo survive the Old West when fantasy becomes reality and the Gunslinger finally draws on them?

Special features include a 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible); the original restored lossless 4-channel stereo, 2.0 stereo, and 1.0 mono audio options and an optional remixed 5.1 DTS-HD MA surround audio; optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing; a brand new audio commentary; a newly filmed conversation between actor Richard Benjamin and producer/screenwriter Larry Karaszewski (Ed Wood); brand new video interviews with actor James Brolin and producer Paul N. Lazarus III; a brand new video appreciation; an archival behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film; the pilot episode of the television series Beyond Westworld; the theatrical trailer; image gallery; a perfect bound booklet; double-sided fold-out poster; and six postcard-sized artcards.

Watch the trailer for Westworld here: https://youtu.be/ojDtMkYII_M?si=rSYpqv1nOO-LJdHa

Order Here: https://customers.mvdb2b.com/b2b/s/AV804  

Just Because...

Natalie Wood

Just Because I'm in the mood for something different, Just Because it's Friday & Just Because I am a big fan of Natalie Wood, here it is Natalie Wood being whimsical with something straight outta the citrus family! (Since the shot is Black & White I can't tell if it's an orange or a grapefruit, for practical reasons I'm going with orange)

For those of you who don't know me "Yes" Natalie Wood was my first movie star crush. I remember the moment it happened was seeing her in West Side Story for the first time. I was completely mesmerized by her beauty, charisma and talent. She was Maria!

Once I saw that I devoured everything thing she did. She was so heartbreaking in Splendor in the Grass. In Rebel Without A Cause she was teen angst incarnate. 

"Yes" I could go on, but I won't.

Enjoy your weekend, Just Because...

Natalie on Instagram -

https://www.instagram.com/nataliewood/ 

Michael's Musings

Lord Of The Wild Things
Michael Shinafelt

"Wild thing

You make my heart sing
You make everything groovy
Wild thing

Wild thing, I think you move me
But I wanna know for sure
So come on and hold me tight
You move me" - The Troggs, Wild Thing

A male witch is called a witch. Not a wizard, not a warlock, not a sorcerer, not a magician. Just a witch...the more you know

Will you be my freak on a leash? Think about it, but not too much

The John Hughes classic "Pretty In Pink" celebrates turning 40 with a return to theaters February 13 -16, yep in time for Valentine's Day

If they want to see you as the villain...Then strike a pose!

Sometimes even a Rock Star like you needs a break, that's all

Veronica Mars is currently on Netflix. Since I've never seen it I decided to give it a go. Yep, I'm hooked!

It's official I've lost 26lbs on my GLP-1. Started at 197 am down to 171, there's that.

Today is the most humiliating day in American History. At least until tomorrow.

Woman Crush of the Week - Rachel McAdams who just got her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Looking forward to seeing Sam Raimi's Send Help in which she stars opening next weekend!

"I don't know who I am" and other such dilemmas.

Pro Tip: Tell a coworker they swallowed too many kids and that's why everything that comes out of their mouth is childish. Let me know how it goes...

Dr. Wiggles Weiner Wagon, say that three times fast

They apologized, but I already mailed a piece of their hair to this lady in New Orleans, Ooops!

Consider this a warning: I found you in this lifetime and I will find you in the next.

Let's meet here:

https://www.instagram.com/michaelshinafelt/?hl=en

https://bsky.app/profile/michaelshinafelt.bsky.social 

https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelshinafelt  

Hump Day & Chill

Michael Shinafelt

"I will drive past your house

And if the lights are all down
I'll see who's around

One way, or another, I'm gonna find ya
I'm gonna get ya, get ya, get ya, get ya
One way, or another, I'm gonna win ya, I'll get ya, I'll get ya" - Blondie, One Way Or Another

Hey Minions, if you are seeing this the curse is lifted! Yay! 

It's time to Hump Day & Chill...I'm going to drink wine and listen to Blondie. 

Whatever you choose, we've earned it!

Time to get to it, enjoy 😎

Blondie on IG -

https://www.instagram.com/blondieofficial/?hl=en   

"A Place In Time"

Long Island, NY — Progressive rock quartet Dhärä return today with their expansive new single “A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)”, offering the next glimpse into their forthcoming full-length album Elemental Four, arriving January 11, 2026.

Known for their immersive instrumental storytelling and dynamic compositions, Dhärä continue to push beyond strict genre boundaries on “A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided).” The track unfolds with patience and atmosphere before erupting into driving rhythms, soaring guitar interplay, and a powerful sense of momentum—highlighting the band’s signature balance between precision, emotion, and scale.

The band shares: "This is the opening of our concept album Elemental Four. "A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)" introduces many themes that are heard throughout the album. This album is also a concert movie that features five ballerinas who perform modern lyrical dance to the music. Elemental Four is a journey of four entities whose world is shaken by a meteor which threatens their existence. They are separated by a great earthquake, and the only path to saving the planet and themselves is to unify and summon The Conduit, whose power can hopefully vanquish the threat."

Stream the new single here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dhr1/dhr-2 

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/bgegZtzrjJM?si=jRY9wnZdPoorjL5m

Pre-save the album here:  https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dhr1/elemental-four

Since forming in 2015, Dhärä have been steadily carving out a distinct voice within progressive and instrumental rock. Based in Long Island, New York, the band has released an EP, standalone singles, eclectic music videos, and even a coordinated custom light show—embracing a fully DIY ethos from recording and production to visuals and live presentation. This new single marks another step forward in what the band describes as only the beginning.

Critics have consistently praised Dhärä for their virtuosity, atmosphere, and cinematic approach:

“The way the song is sort of divided into two parts is really interesting, with a skyrocketing shift in dynamic and tempo about halfway through… There’s also a little bit more prog in Dhärä’s DNA, which might make people think more of projects like Skyharbor or The Helix Nebula.”
— Michael Whiteside, Deputy Editor, Fecking Bahamas

“The guitars in this track create an absolutely captivating atmosphere and an inspiring arrangement… irresistible riffs and melodies unfold, combined with intense drive and concentrated energy.”
— Indie Tapes Blog/Playlist

“Playful and versatile… incredible virtuosity… epic and exciting instrumental progressive rock without needing any vocals.”
— Zona Emergente

“Let the melody of this song sweep you away… a dreamlike opening that gradually envelops us in a tinkling, atmospheric soundscape.”
— End Sessions MX

“Awesome guitar work and spirit that captures a bit of a cinematic and melancholic atmosphere.”
— We All Want Someone To Shout For

Dhärä is comprised of four distinct creative voices whose differences fuel their sound: Chris Rodriguez (drums), Austin Sandick (guitar), Kay Tyagi (guitar), and Ryan DiPietrantonio (bass). Together, they focus on building immersive atmospheres while always serving the song—embracing instrumental music as a limitless medium for exploration and expression.

“A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)” is available now on all major platforms. Elemental Four arrives January 11, 2026. 

Listen & Follow Dhärä:
Main Website: https://www.dharamusic.com/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dharamusic
Bandcamp: https://dhara.bandcamp.com/album/dh-r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dharamusicny
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dharamusicny/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dharamusicny

Matin Luther King Jr.

In Honor & Remembrance...

Martin Luther King Jr. Day 

Martin Luther King Jr on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr.  

Walking in LA...

Photo:
Michael Shinafelt

Hit Rough Trade in the Sunset Junction (one of my favorite hoods in Los Angeles) section of Silverlake, CA the other day and while walking around the area I came up this slogan splashed a few times in various places throughout:

DON'T BE DUMB

IMO this statement has arrived somewhat on the tardy side. "Yes" it's late. However perhaps there is hope that collective consciousness will gain enough wisdom to perhaps salvage something from the wreckage.

IYKYK.

So keep on keeping and have a Sunday Funday!

Yeah, that's the ticket...

Visit Sunset Junction on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunset_Junction

Current Mood

The Only Erika That Matters, Erika Jayne

While scrolling through Social Media I happened upon this, I assume, candid image of Erika Jayne of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills.

Upon seeing it I had all the feels of my Current Mood. "Yes" this is how I am feeling at present and this is actually the kindest way I can express it. Trust me if you wanted me to share my actual thoughts you would bear witness to a way harsher form of self expression, indeed.

Kudos to whoever captured this image of Erika and a feel good shout out to the diva for giving zero f#cks about it.

Hope your Current Mood is more stellar than mine, don't forget to brush your teeth...

Toothbrush Drop!

Erika on IG -

https://www.instagram.com/theprettymess/?hl=en 

Guess What? I Love You

At forty-one, musician MIKE MAIMONE never imagined he would become a widower. In GUESS WHAT? I LOVE YOU (Fox & Quill; February 10, 2026), Maimone chronicles the profound love story he shared with his late husband, legendary publicist Howard Bragman, whose groundbreaking career empowered countless public figures and everyday people to live more openly and authentically.

Written with candor, warmth, and emotional precision, GUESS WHAT? I LOVE YOU weaves together humor, heartbreak, spirituality, and healing. The memoir offers an intimate portrait of a relationship sparked by unexpected magic on a hookup app, deepened through a months-long phone courtship, and culminating in a life-changing first weekend walking hand-in-hand through New York City. Maimone captures not only Bragman’s larger-than-life public persona, but also the tenderness, vulnerability, and emotional generosity known only to those closest to him.

“Revisiting the hospital experience was the hardest part,” Maimone reflects. “I cried a lot while putting those moments on the page.” At times, the process was so excruciating that he admits he questioned why he put himself through writing the book at all.

A recurring thread throughout GUESS WHAT? I LOVE YOU is Maimone’s transformative “Year of Yes,” a period marked by openness, surrender, and the courage to release control over both life and career. Guided by Bragman’s mentorship and hard-earned wisdom, Maimone discovers balance, renewed creative clarity, and a healthier relationship with success; insights that resonate far beyond the entertainment industry.

Music remains central to Maimone’s storytelling. A lifelong album artist, he approaches the memoir with the same emotional intentionality that defines his songwriting, carefully shaping tone and narrative across each chapter. The accompanying album, also titled Guess What? I Love You, serves as a true companion piece, deepening the book’s emotional impact. Songs such as “Paranoid in Paradise,” “So Hard to Let Go,” and “Big Kiss” echo moments on the page, while the stories behind the music add rich new layers to the listening experience.

Throughout his journey, Maimone invites readers—especially those navigating grief—to embrace connection, remain open to unexpected possibilities, and allow themselves to experience the full spectrum of human emotion.

Visually, the book’s cover reflects the spirit of the story itself. Featuring illustrated cake pops (a symbol of joy discovered amid loss), the artwork honors a love story that didn’t unfold as planned, but was deeply meaningful, fully lived, and profoundly transformative. 

Michael's Musings

Shiny Happy People
Michael Shinafelt

"Everyone around, love them, love them

Put it in your hands, take it, take it
There's no time to cry, happy, happy
Put it in your heart where tomorrow shines
Gold and silver shine

Shiny happy people holding hands
Shiny happy people holding hands
Shiny happy people laughing" - R.E.M. "Shiny Happy People"

To think we survived a pandemic for this, that's all

Saw David Lynch's Mulholland Drive again on Tubi. The older I get the more linear the film becomes. IYKYK!

Thought of the Day: Am I polarizing enough?

Speaking of others is easy, facing the battles they have won is another story. Indeed...

I've gotten a tattoo for every decade of my life since my twenties. Currently deciding on what I should get for my 60th. Any suggestions?

FYI I'm done adulting, let's be dragons, the more you know

This is not a safe space for your hatred. You can choke on it. Disrespectfully.

Smile, Laugh, Talk, Drink, Dance, Eat A$$, carry on.

Woman Crush of the Week - Hunter Schafer in the role she was born to play Jules Vaughn. Can't wait for Season 3 of Euphoria to drop April 12th! 

Rewatched some episodes of The Comeback with Lisa Kudrow on HBO yesterday. What a brilliant show!

When a Ford worker is held to a higher standard than the President of the Unites States, discuss.

"The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are" - Carl Jung

My toxic trait is knowing the truth before I ask because I wanna see how good you lie. What's yours???

I'm feeling quite ______ the blank is yours to fill in

Let's fill it in together here -

https://www.instagram.com/michaelshinafelt/?hl=en

https://bsky.app/profile/michaelshinafelt.bsky.social

https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelshinafelt   

Hump Day & Chill

Look! It's A Zuni Fetish Doll!

There's a little more "Chill" in today's Hump Day & Chill than per usual. Here to give it to us is the Zuni Fetish Doll from Trilogy Of Terror.

You know the one that terrorized Karen Black in her apartment? Yeah, that's the fetish!

This sexy beast appears in the third and final story titled Amelia here's the synopsis for the uninitiated: 

Story 3: Amelia

"Amelia lives alone in a high-rise apartment building. When Amelia tells her overbearing mother she is cancelling their evening plans in order to see her anthropologist boyfriend on his birthday, and that she bought him a wooden fetish doll in the form of a misshapen aboriginal warrior with pointed teeth and a spear, her mother hangs up. A scroll with the doll claims that the gold chain adorning the doll keeps the spirit of a Zuni hunter named "He Who Kills" trapped within. As Amelia leaves the room, the gold chain falls off."

Hump Day & Chill and remember to treat your Zuni Fetish Doll well!

Trilogy Of Terror on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trilogy_of_Terror  

Excalibur

Also on February 24, the medieval epic fantasy Excalibur makes its world premiere on 4K UHD. Director John Boorman (Deliverance) brings you the definitive cinematic telling of the life and enduring legend of King Arthur, not seen in previous family friendly movies about Camelot. The Limited Edition release features a brand new 4K restoration from the original 35mm negative by Arrow Films presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.66:1 for the first time on home video, hours of special features, and newly commissioned extras. There is also a Blu-ray release.

The wizard Merlin (Nicol Williamson, The Exorcist III) acquires the powerful sword Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake for Uther Pendragon (Gabriel Byrne, The Usual Suspects). The magical weapon allows Uther to be recognized as the King of the Britons. During a feast, Uther begs Merlin to cast a spell that will allow him to sleep with a duke’s wife. Merlin agrees, but only after being promised the king’s future child. Months later, Merlin claims the newborn. When Uther attempts to reclaim the baby, he is ambushed, and before dying, he drives Excalibur into a stone. Legend foretells that only the next true king can free the sword. Merlin places the child, Arthur, with Sir Ector to be raised as a squire. During a tournament to determine England’s new ruler, a grown Arthur (Nigel Terry, The Lion in Winter) unknowingly pulls Excalibur from the stone and is crowned king. He gathers extraordinary knights to his legendary Round Table at Camelot, but his reunion with his magical sister Morgana (Helen Mirren, The Queen) ushers in dark times for his reign. To restore the kingdom, Arthur sends his knights on a perilous quest for the Holy Grail. Among the warriors clad in shining armor are Patrick Stewart (Star Trek: The Next Generation), Liam Neeson (Taken), and Ciarán Hinds (Miami Vice).

Special features include a 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible); restored original lossless mono and DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio options; optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing; two brand new audio commentaries; archival audio commentary by director John Boorman; The Making of Excalibur: Myth into Movie, a never before released 48-minute documentary directed by Neil Jordan (The Crying Game); newly filmed interviews with director John Boorman, actor Charley Boorman, co-writer Rospo Pallenberg; creative associate Neil Jordan and others; the 120-minute TV version of the film; a retrospective documentary with cast and crew interviews; trailers; image galleries; a perfect-bound booklet; double-sided fold-out poster; and six postcard-sized reproduction art cards.

Watch the trailer for Excalibur here: https://youtu.be/knJQxaO5Bt4?si=xAFuREUygUzTSNON

Order Here: https://customers.mvdb2b.com/b2b/s/AV806

How Do You Say De-Gorgeous???

Jennifer Lawrence

On a rare Mommy night out, Jennifer Lawrence magically appeared at last night's Golden Globes award show.

Looking drop dead gorgeous is a Givenchy naked floral dress she was the head turner for the to do last night IMHO.

Nominated for her turn in Die My Love (if you haven't seen it check it out) she was still 100% authentically Jennifer Lawrence.

This Mother of two still knows how to work it!

Jennifer on IMDb -

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2225369/  

Golden Globes

It's Golden Globes Sunday. I'll be watching mainly to see Nikki Glaser execute her hosting duties. Also for the spectacle of it all naturally.

Hit the list of nominees below.

Enjoy! 

https://goldenglobes.com/nominations/2026  

In Dreams

Naomi Watts
Mulholland Drive

"It'll be just like in the movies. Pretending to be somebody else."

"Hey, pretty girl, time to wake up."

"I want you to go back to work tomorrow. You were recasting the lead actress anyway. Audition many girls for the part. When you see the girl that was shown to you earlier today, you will say, "this is the girl." The rest of the cast can stay, that's up to you. But that lead girl is not up to you. Now, you will see me one more time if you do good. You will see me two more times if you do bad. Good night."

"In dreams, I walk with you
In dreams, I talk to you
In dreams, you're mine, all of the time
We're together in dreams, in dreams"

Beautiful Dreamers...Everyone...

Mulholland Drive on Rotten Tomatoes -

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mulholland_dr  

MacArthur Park

Kristi Noem

"MacArthur's Park is melting in the dark

All the sweet, green icing flowing down
Someone left the cake out in the rain
I don't think that I can take it
'Cause it took so long to bake it
And I'll never have that recipe again
Oh, no"  - Donna Summer, MacArthur Park

TGIF!

MacArthur Park on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MacArthur_Park_(song) 

Michael's Musings

"Things That Make You Go, Hmm"
Michael Shinafelt

"Things that make you go, hmm

Things that make you go, hmm
It's the things that make you go, oh, oh, oh
The things that make you go, hmm
Things that make you go, hmm
It's the things that make you go, hmm, hmm, hmm" C + C Music Factory and Freedom Williams

Expect the unexpected then tame that beast

Now who on earth would want to harass poor Dottie Hinkle? IYKYK

Alcohol has taught me when I'm drunk I will walk anywhere. Sober me complains about walking for 10 minutes.

Me walking into 2026 still a bitch. It's a New Year not a miracle.

If today isn't your day remember a year has 365 days, that's all

Always leave when it gets disrespectful, the more you know

Hug me until it stops feeling innocent, that's the ticket

Today's challenge: Say three nice things about Nicki Minaj

Woman Crush of the Week - Amy Madigan for her Critic's Choice win as Aunt Gladys in Weapons. Brilliant! 

It's pretty disgusting that Trump has no achievements of his own that he has to steal another man's memorial

Can't wait for you to have your _____ in my mouth. The blank is yours to fill in

Gavin Newsom proposes renaming all toxic waste  sites after Donald J Trump

Being both crazy and self aware is interesting because I know what I'm about to do is insane but I'm gonna do it anyway, there's that

For those about to seize the day, I salute you!

Seize it with me here -

https://www.instagram.com/michaelshinafelt/?hl=en

https://bsky.app/profile/michaelshinafelt.bsky.social

https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelshinafelt  

Hump Day & Chill

Watch Out! There's a lizard warning in effect from 4 am on Saturday to on Sunday. Look who's crossing it the most famous lizard of all time...Godzilla!

Thus let us Hump Day & Chill to the King of the Monsters and his legend. 

Here's the synopsis of the original 1954 movie:

"After a dinosaur-like beast - awoken from undersea hibernation by atom bomb testing - ravages Tokyo, a scientist must decide if his similarly dangerous weapon should be used to destroy it" 

Godzilla on 1954 on IMDb -

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0047034/   

Wine, Women & Dementia

Seeking healing and comfort in community, a dementia family caregiver roadtrips the U.S. to swap caregiver stories with others who share this journey. The uplifting documentary Wine, Women, & Dementia is a universal story of the end of life journey through the unique perspective of dementia family caregivers. 

This inspiring documentary follows the journey of former dementia family caregiver and filmmaker, Kitty Norton, as she embarks on a cross-country RV adventure around the U.S. Her mission: to meet the dementia family caregiver friends who, despite physical distance, supported and inspired each other through virtual connections.

Meeting in person for the first time, the caregivers share intimate, humorous, and heartfelt stories of their care experiences. Through illuminating interviews over bottles of wine, viewers gain vivid insights into the realities of dementia - from diagnosis to death and heartbreak to humor. It's a physical and emotional trip as the caregivers process and compare their experiences, illustrating that however isolated they are, they are not alone. And that community, regardless how far away, can have miraculous effects to benefit a tough, tough journey.

Director Kitty Norton also authored the popular family caregiver blog, Stumped Town Dementia.

Perfect for Awareness Holidays: National Caregivers Day (February 20), Caregiver Appreciation Day (March 3), Mother's Day, Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month (June), World Alzheimer's Month (September), and National Family Caregiver Month (November).

A one hour version was featured on PBS. Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-aE11n6XjZc

Order Here -

https://mvd.cloud/share/sales/20260105021538.html  

Current Mood

I don't know about all of you but I've been feeling quite shall we say amorous. 

So this slogan definitely conveys my Current Mood.

It's time to grab hold and bring it.

Why? Because innocence is an overrated virtue.

 Hugs in Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hug