Ubuntu 14.04.4 LTS hangs on boot after latest dist-upgrade in VMware

At Ubuntu Forums there's at least one thread showing that my issue is caused by the latest Ubuntu Kernel Update (linux-image-extra-3.19.0-51-generic):

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=2314723

Update:

@alexmurray filed a bug (which has been already confirmed) at https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/initramfs-tools/+bug/1550090

Please vote over there if you're affected (please don't create "me too" answers here).

Update:

Fixed by 3.19.0-51.58~14.04.1

I had the same issue and reverted back to the older kernel.

1. Hold Shift on boot up and select advanced options, then select an older kernel (Pay attention to what the latest kernel is). This will allow you to go into the Ubuntu desktop.

2. From there open up synaptic package manager. Locate linux-image-3.19.0-51-generic (or the latest kernel you have installed).

3. Right-click and select "Mark for Removal".

4. Apply and restart.