Reviews (13)

The best Tom Sawyer i ever saw.
This movie was playing at Radio City Music Hall back in the days of the movie/stage show formt. It was also presented in 70mm on that huge Radio City screen. I remember how impressed i was with that opening scene with the steam boat going down the river and you see Tom running thru the field and the music builds more and more. Wow,,,,what a great movie!I've seen many versions of "Tom Sawyer" but this one seems to be the best ever brought to the screen. Maybe because it's a musical. Whatever made this so successful back then you will not be disappointed by it's gradure and scope. A must for ever American kid and adult too. This is as red, white and blue as it gets and now must be the most politically incorrect movie ever made. (hehe) Buy it before some group puts a ban on it. Which should want you to buy this for the kids even more. They don't make them like this anymore.

Energetic, sunny adaptation
Made at a time when the inclusion of songs was all but compulsory for a family film, this musical adaptation nonetheless manages to translate the best aspects of Twain's book to the screen. The movie does an impressive job of creating a dramatic shape out of Twain's material. The book is a collection of episodes which form a composite portrait of Tom's character, and, for adult readers, offer a glimpse into a lost world; but there really is no narrative drive. The murder and Tom's subsequent dilemma about testifying in court are simply two episodes unconnected to the other events. In the book, the boys simply decide one day to form a gang of robbers and go live on the island. In the movie, the retreat to the island arises out of the boys' fear after having witnessed the murder, and it is only the guilt they feel while spying on their own funeral that makes them return home. The songs are not especially memorable, but harmless enough. The performances by the supporting adult cast are strong, particularly that of Celeste Holm as Aunt Polly. A splendid scene at the dinner table is a masterful fleshing-out of Twain's prose. Full of nice photography and beautiful scenery, this movie sparkles with joy and youthful optimism.

A national treasure! Please release on DVD.
I just re-watched this film and wow, what a treasure of a film!

With songs written by the famous Sherman Brothers (the brilliant Disney songwriters who did "Mary Poppins" et al.) and the charm of Johnny Whitaker as Tom Sawyer (1970's tv show"Family Affair") this is the best version of the classic Mark Twain tale I've ever seen on film. You really feel like you're right there in Hannibal, Missouri.

Great casting all the way around and a fantastic musical as well.

I originally saw this when I was about nine and it completely caught my imagination both then and now. I'd never forgotten several catchy songs from the film, such as "Free Bootin.' Great stuff all the way around.

My only complaint is that this film is not currently available on DVD, as I'd love to see and hear this treasure of a film in full visual and audio clarity.

whatever
this movie is like so the not so awesome.we are watching it in school(me go to mater dei academy)and when i go home my ears hurt so much from all the... singing.i wish it only had like no singing and like what is up with the charectors dos man it is like way out there if ya know what i'm sayin.so i would not like refer this to anyone.if yall wanna watch tom sawyer watch the one with jtt.

Jodie Foster is GREAT! The music is terrible.
I fast-forwarded through the really bad songs in this would-be musical. It is a lot of fun. The character of Tom Sawyer is great. He is both a bad kid and a great guy at the same time -- a mix not so common in America's world of truly evil and absolutely saintly characters. Not particularly deep, not particularly inspiring, but fun. ... Read more

Description

A feature film version of America's hit comedy concert tour, Blue Collar Comedy Tour The Movie stars renowned comedians Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall and fellow Blue Collar comics Ron White and Larry The Cable Guy. The film features live stand-up performances filmed at Phoenix's Dodge Theater as well as behind-the-scenes sequences highlighting the individual comedians. The number one comedy tour of the last two years, The Blue Collar Comedy Tour has grossed more than $12 million to date and produced a best-selling live album, The Blue Collar Comedy Tour Live, released in November 2001. ... Read more

Reviews (138)

A MUST-HAVE!!!
GET THIS MOVIE! This is the funniest movie you'll ever see! It tops even "Rat Race!" Jeff, Bill, Ron and Larry are hilarious even when they're not on stage! "He just made enough money to buy anything he wants in the store, and he gets the remote-controlled fart machine." LOL!!! Even if you're not a Jeff Foxworthy or Bill Engvall fan, you will absolutely LOVE this movie!! And Ron and Larry are HYSTERICAL!!! Ron's "Yesterday I was sitting in a beanbag chair naked eating cheetos" is an AWESOME opener and Larry's line, "I was seeing this girl for six weeks, then somebody took my binoculars out of my truck" is classic! Bill's cool when he talks about his family. "I was helping my wife fold clothes, I pick up this pair of skimpy underwear and I go, 'Hey, Hey! When are you going to wear these for me?' 'I can't, they're your daughter's.' I'm like, 'OOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWW!!' No No No!" HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! And Jeff's redneck words are very, very funny, too! "'Wijadija.' Hey, you didn't bring your truck wijadija?" 106 minutes of pure hilarity! Where else can you not only get more Bill Engvall "Here's Your Sign" gags, but also get Jeff, Ron and Larry telling one, too? And Bill telling a redneck joke? After seeing this movie and seeing that Jeff. Bill, Ron and Larry are all rednecks, I'm proud of the fact that I'm a redneck!

Everyone can find this filled with laughs
The Blue Collar Comedy Tour isn't just for rednecks or blue collar workers- this is fun and laughter for everyone. There are no cusswords or adult content to cut out so even teenagers can watch this. Funny comedian Ron White is like a 21st century country-style Dean Martin. The other 3 comedians ( Ron White included ) along with Jeff Foxworthy also serve up their fair share of comic lines and laughs. Most people have only heard of Jeff Foxworthy due to his name & longetivity( including me until this ) but once you've seen & heard this you will want to enjoy it over & over.Great that these four comedians decided to tour together,film it & release it on video & dvd for us to enjoy.
Even you are alone you may be laughing out loud.The Blue Collar Comedy Tour was recommended to me by an African-American so it wasn't offensive to him either as he thought it funny-This is definitely not just for rednecks but for everyone.This is not just southern humor-the comedy is universally appealing. Buy it,rent it,don't miss out.You don't have to have a job with a nametag on it to enjoy this one.It doesn't matter who you are- this one's funny.It't not covered in moles.No one will literally throw you out of a place.There's your sign-You might be a redneck but you don't have to be one to laugh at this comedy.

Just Buy It!!
My personal gaurantee--YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO STOP LAUGHING ONCE THIS MOVIE STARTS! Now, go buy it and quit wasting anymore of your time reading these reviews. P.S. I dont know where Ron(tater salad)White has been all these years but he is a super performer and in my opinion stole the show even though he was on the stage a much shorter time than the others. The cable guy is funny too! Git er Done!

White Trash Humor
If you like redneck, working-man humor, you'll get a kick out of this. Personally, my favorite performer is Ron White, and I thought Larry the Cable Guy's solo performance was irritating. Between the different performances, they have clips from a visit they did to a shopping mall, which are okay.

Not THAT good, but...
Call me a tough critic, but I can't bring myself to rave about this film in the way everyone else has.

My friends (who have no taste in comedy what-so-ever) love this film, so they watch all the time around me. I did find it to be funny and I found myself laughing at most of the "You might be a redneck if..." jokes, though I thought Larry the Cable Guy's nonsensical ramblings interspersed with shoutings of the expression "Git-R-Done" were terrifically unfunny.

If you're looking for a good time with friends and making you laugh is not a difficult task, this film is for you and you should order your copy immediately. This film is also perfect for anyone with a hickish background or roots in a redneck-dominated area.

If you appreciate more insightfulhumor and making you laugh is quite a challenge, I suggest you check out the brilliance of Ellen DeGeneres in 'Here and Now', her hilarious HBO special.

Other than that, this film was not so bad. It's definately worth at least one viewing, but you may want to get it at Blockbuster before you buy your copy here. ... Read more

Reviews (279)

Honor and Horror
The story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry is told in a solid and entertaining movie. The casting is brilliant, including the surprisingly good choice of Matthew Broderick, an actor I'm normally indifferent to, who is utterly believable as the scion of a wealthy Boston family who accepts a commission as Colonel in command of the first black regiment in the Civil War. Rounding out the cast are Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington, the two finest actors of ANY color working in Hollywood these days, and Cary Elwes in easily his best performance since The Princess Bride. If there is anything negative to say about this film, it is in the archetypical nature of several of the characters (I do not know how "fictionalized" the indivdual soldiers are) and a bit of, yes, "glorification" of what ultimately was one of the most horrific and wasteful events in history. But ultimately that is what makes honor and glory: sacrifice for the future. The tragedy should not be forgotten in the glory. So when you see this movie, let your heart swell for the glory and honor, and let your eye weep at the waste of human life.

A Movie for Warmongers and Pacifists alike
The Academy Award winner from 1989 stands out as a monumental film with stunning acting, crisp cinematography and one of the most realistic depictions of the horrors of war ever filmed.

Matthew Broderick is compelling as Robert Gould Shaw, the young and inexperienced commander of the 54th Regiment of Massachusetts, an all-black unit initially deprived of the right to fight but eventually allowed to prove its mettle in a pivotal battle of the Civil War. Morgan Freeman exudes paternal strength and wisdom as the eldest member of the platoon. Andre Braugher, Cary Elwes, Jihmi Kennedy, and a brilliant Denzel Washington (winner of "Best Supporting Actor" Oscar) make this film a genuine classic.

Making small but significant contributions to the film are Jane Alexander as Shaw's mother and veteran Raymond St. Jacques (his last role) as Frederick Douglas.

A further nod of praise goes to James Horner's masterful score. His music, along with the harmonies of the Boys Choir Of Harlem provides as glorious a background as is the inspirational story itself.

A Great American Movie!
This is one of the most historically acurate films about the Civil War. Not only that, it's one of the best acted and best shot movie in many years. Denzel Washington's performance is worth the Oscar he recieved. Matthew Broderick and Morgan Freeman are also exceptional. It's an unforgetable film about an event that changed the course of history.

HOTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST MOVIES I HAVE EVER SEEN!
Matthew Broderick is AMAZING buy it and you won't be disapointed.

American tragedy
For so long, the image of the Civil War has existed in the collective American mind as a series of sepia-tone Matthew Brady photographs: ghoulish and nightmarish landscapes littered with bodies and body parts. However, with the notable exceptions of his portraits of the field generals, there is a sort of anonymity to the corpses in Brady's works. In one of GONE WITH THE WIND's most powerful scenes, scores upon scores of wounded soldiers lie in the streets, until they appear to be one large, unidentifiable mass of pain--which was the filmmaker's point. Edward Zwick's GLORY was one of the first films to put a human face and individuality to those who fought and died in America's most brutal years. Based upon the true story of Boston's young colonel, Robert Shaw, and his efforts to allow his all African-American outfit (the "54th") to fight on the side of the Union, GLORY is one of those rare films that successfully combines history with movie-making.

Wonderful performances abound in this powerful film: Washington, Broderick, Freeman and Elwes all give their best efforts. But the real star of the show is the camera. The battle sequences, as other reviewers have mentioned, are horrific, as is the scene in the triage tent. (THIS MOVIE IS NOT FOR PEOPLE WITH WEAK STOMACHS.) But the scenes in between, the relatively quiet ones, have as great an impact. I especially have in mind the training sequences. In another director's hands, the scenes in which the troops begin understanding each other, and as the officers begin understanding their troops could have wound up a syrupy mess. Instead, their horrible predicament unites them in an unsentimental, yet sensitive manner. Zwick's camera-work throughout is exemplary, making GLORY one of the best films about America's most tragic episodes. ... Read more

Reviews (33)

realism for a change
I first saw this movie during it's original release at a seminar of the society of army pa's at Ft Bragg . The director showed the film to us courtesy of the vietnam veterans association . We were mostly veterans at the time as was the director . He explained thar realism was his primary motivating factor along with relating his experiences in vietnam . There are no exploding blood bags for special effects , his effects man went to L.A.'s E.R.'s to study real gunshot wounds and portray the same in the film and in addition all the actors carried real weapons and packs . The overall effect is one of stark realism . This looks and feels like a real documentary filmed for the troops being trained for combat in vietnam , not like a staged movie . This is the opinion of a veteran along with the other vets who saw it with me . If realism and a true feel for that war is what you are looking for then get or watch this film . No large budget movie has ever done this so successfuly as has this film .

If you want a real war movie, this is it... -Polar Bear 6
Realism... Blunt, emotional, realism... This film, dedicated to the men of the 101st, 173rd, and 82nd Airborne Divisions, in a matter of ninety-five minutes will take the viewer right into the world of the Long Range Recon Patrol soldier of the Vietnam War. The director is able to achieve this transport by presenting the action through the viewfinder of a combat motion picture camerman. Prior to his recognition for his work as a technical advisor on "Saving Private Ryan", Captain Dale Dye was injecting reality in to other movies, 84 Charlie MoPic being one of them. The attention to detail is phenominal. No Hollywood heroics here - just men in combat that live day by day, looking forward to going home. In a little over an hour and a half, the viewer meets, comes to know, and share laughs, fear, and heartbreak with the men of the patrol. Each man reminds us, whether through mannerisms, speech, or physical characteristics, of someone we know. The viewer will be greatly touched by this film - it will make you want to go out and thank a Vietnam veteran.

Not THAT close...
84 Charlie Mopic (USA 1989), directed by Patrick Duncan, is a Vietnam War film directed by a Vietnam veteran. Yet Duncan typecasts both race and culture-in this Vietnam film, both the Vietnamese and each leading characters are stereotyped. The absence of the Vietnamese is a common occurrence through modern Vietnam War films, according to David Desser's article, "Charlie Don't Surf". Also, each character is stereotyped to a similar subculture of the 1969 era, including an angry, militant black man, a racist, southern white man, and an adolescent with only drugs on his mind. 84 Charlie Mopic comes closer than The Green Berets or China Gate to being close to reality of the Vietnam conflict, but it still is not completely historically accurate.

84 Charlie MoPic great complement to The Things They Carried
When I taught high school English Literature I showed "84 Charlie MoPic" to students as a visual complement to the novel "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien. The film works great with the novel because there are things/ideas that you can identify in the film that are discussed in the book (e.g., some of the superstitions of soldiers).

When I first saw MoPic I had tuned into a PBS airing after it had already started and believed it was actual footage for most of the film. I would try to replicate the feeling (and in a way pay homage to the film maker's efforts at versimilitude) by starting the film with the number countdown and deflecting their questions about "is this real?" until our subsequent discussion.

I highly recommend both "84 Charlie MoPic" and "The Things They Carried" individually and paired together.

Mopic is one of best Vietnam films
I caught "84 Charlie Mopic" by accident many years ago on late-night TV. The film, which simulates a long range patrol (LRP) into the Vietnam jungle filmed by an Army cameraman (hence the term, Charlie Mopic) was so dead-on that for quite a while I thought I was watching some long-lost documentary. The movie is low-budget, filmed in a herky-jerky style, and the actors are not recognizable names.

I was not in Vietnam, but "Mopic," a real sleeper, has to be one of the better presentations of what Vietnam ambush combat was like. The enemy is barely glimpsed, death comes out of nowhere, and long periods of wait and boredom punctuated by noise and terror. It is closer to the mark than the big-budget "Firebase Gloria" and "Hamburger Hill," which struck me as essentialy WW2 style combat movies transposed into the jungle. It may not be saying too much that "Mopic" anticipates the quick-shift, buzzy camera work in "Private Ryan" and "Band of Brothers", on a very small scale.

If you can find it, grab it. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

One of the most compelling tragic romances ever captured on film, Wuthering Heights is an exquisite tale of doomed love and miscalculated intentions. Though only half of Emily Bronte's classic tale of Heathcliff and Catherine was filmed by director William Wyler, it lacks for nothing.

The story begins when a Yorkshire gentleman farmer brings home a raggedy gypsy boy, Heathcliff, and raises him as his son. The boy grows to love his stepsister Catherine, with catastrophic results. Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon were perfectly cast as the mismatched lovers, with Olivier brooding and despairing, Oberon ethereal and enchanting. This won cinematographer Gregg Toland a much-deserved Oscar for his haunting and evocative depiction of mid-19th century English moors. (Quite a trick, as this was shot in California!) Though nominated for seven otherOscars, it won none of them, as it was released in 1939, one of the best years in Hollywood history and the same year as Gone with the Wind. Interestingly, the script was written by Charles MacArthurand Ben Hecht, best known for their witty 1931 flick, The Front Page. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (65)

How Can You NOT Like This Movie?!
You can never compare the movie to the book since a movie can't possibly incorporate ALL of the text from the author! William Wyler put together an excellent cast, fantastic, dark, moody scenes and beautiful music to turn out this brilliant film. The handsome and brooding Heathcliff (Laurence Olivier), the ravishing and haughty Cathy (Merle Oberon) along with the stoic, dull Edgar (David Niven)and the rebellious and pathetic Isabel (Geraldine Fitzgerald) turn this into one of the most romantic, haunting love stories ever.

This movie will forever be considered, for me, the epitome of the romantic film. When Heathcliff carries Cathy to the window to look upon the moors one last time as she's dying, my heart swells and tears fill my eyes. It's simply stunning!

An Incomparable Feat of Cinematic Storytelling
I had the good fortune of seeing this film on a big screen at a New York cinema in the early seventies. Viewing a master print in a darkened theatre was one of the all-time highlights of my movie-going experiences. Yes, this is a truncated version of the novel, which I would urge anyone who hasn't already done so to read. It is on my personal top ten list for greatest novels ever. In my opinion this film is far superior to GWTW, which took home the oscar for best-picture in '39. Basically this is due to the source material. Wuthering Heights is great literature. GWTW was a best-seller, but not what one could call great literature. Catherine and Heathcliffe belong in the same literary company as Abelarde and Heloise, Dante's Paolo and Francessa, and Romeo and Juliet. I cant think of anyone who could have been better cast as Heathcliffe than Olivier. Merle Oberon also made for a highly believable Catherine. Flora Robeson also delivers a flawless performance. This is William Wyler's masterpiece. I didn't know until reading some of these reviews that this was filmed in California. I was certain it had to have been filmed on the English moors. If you want to see genius at work, by all means buy the video or the DVD. And if you ever get the chance to see it on a big screen, seize the opportunity. I'm not ordinarily the sentimental type. I can only recall two occasions when I openly wept at the conclusion of a movie. The first was when I saw "Old Yeller" at about eight-years-of-age, the second when I saw Wuthering Heights. I have seen it about five times since and I'll be damned if it doesn't always have the same impact.

Pure movie magic
Does it really matter that this was released in 1939? What about the cheap production values, weak set construction, dated acting, primitive cinematography and low-budget sound editing? No, the fact is that it still can't be done better today. Olivier, Oberon, Niven and Wyler made a movie masterpiece that stands up remarkably well today despite numerous TV broadcasts and big budget remakes. The original is still the best. Watch for yourself. Within just a few minutes you won't be able to stop.

I am torn apart by my desire for you
"Not even you, Cathy, could keep us apart," says Heathcliff. And thus is the ill-fated romance of two childhood friends who end up with different paths in life yet are kept from true happiness because of the void left by the absence of the other. The passionate acting of the handsome Laurence Olivier is supplemented with a talented supporting cast, especially Geraldine Fitzgerald, who plays exquisitely the part of Isabella, the long-suffering wife of Heathcliff who wants her husband to love her as she is and who will never get her wish because he is consumed with passionate desire for her sister. Having read the original novel by Emily Brontë, I would consider this possibly the greatest romance I've ever seen as such passionate longing is rarely seen. "I cannot live without my life. I cannot die without my soul," says the tortured Heathcliff about his Cathy. 10/10. A+.

Olivier at his BEST.
Perhaps I'm biased...I'm absolutely in love with Laurence Olivier's performance in any given role--defintely my favourite actour. But along with Max DeWinter in Rebecca, this is his greatest role. After a string of unsuccessful Hollywood pictures, he lands as Heathcliff in Emily Bronte's classic pre-victorian novel. As I got from reading the book, the story is creepy + drawn out, yet a superb portrait of everything I believe it intended to be--the "unrequited love" between Cathy and Heathcliff. It's definetely my most favourite love story in literature, surpassing even that of Rhett + Scarlett. Olivier's performance is genius. Nothing short of that. The cinematography is a perfect capture as every frame captures the tale to perfection. I shudder to think of Vivien Leigh as Cathy...yes, Vivien would have to be my favourite actress, but I worry that it would've become trapped in the "Larry + Vivien" slot of time..tsk. No less, I enjoy Merle Oberon's performance, however it's not what makes this the grand film that it is. Watch this, if for nothing else, to see the greatest cinematic performance from the greatest actour of the century, and for haunting cinematography. The b/w photography only captures the mood moreso. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Billy the Kid is reimagined by director Sam Peckinpah as a kind of Old West rock star, a young man who wants to do his own thing but constantly runs up against the objections of the establishment--in this case, the cattle barons who run this part of the country. Peckinpah indulged in some quirky casting, including Bob Dylan as an outlaw named Alias and most of Kristofferson's band as Billy's gang. He also draws exceptional performances out of a cast of old veterans, including James Coburn as the reluctant Pat Garrett, R.G. Armstrong, Katy Jurado, and Slim Pickens, who has a terrific death scene to Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door." Look for this longer version (122 minutes); the shorter version is the one that MGM recut against Peckinpah's wishes, removing all the character development and Peckinpah's elegiac sense of the Old West in favor of action and violence. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (42)

Outstanding Western
This is a stunning Western by any count, whether its the exhausted 70's patina (strangely similar to Easy Rider), Coburn's whiskey-soaked degenerate ambiance, or Peckinpah's inspired and artful trademark mayhem (yes, it even has children playing on a hangman's noose). Forget about Dylan's "Peas ... corn .. carrots" scene, which is completely idiotic and funny only in a 1973 "I'm stoned on brownies and watching Dylan read vegetable cans, wow man" sort of way. Dylan could actually have provided his soundtrack and been done with it. Because that soundtrack is crucial to the lasting and laconic mood of the film. The image of a wounded Chill Wills going to his knees for death while Heaven's Door plays in the background is far too poetic for words. That scene will stay with you for a very long time. As Billy, Kristoffersen has somehow mutated into a baby-faced Jim Morrison lookalike. Coburn is a grizzled and cynical character, hard nosed and out for himself. "I aim to be rich, old, and happy, in that order." The mood throughout the film is fated, inevitable, manifest destiny, "just doing my job." Billy/Kristoffersen is the single character who fights the inevitable: "Times might change, not me." Dozens of great lines in this film. A unique ambiance. Interesting twists and characters. Definitely a keeper.

Did I rent the wrong version?
While recently reading Howard Sounes' "Down the Highway - The Life of Bob Dylan," I rented this movie at my local video place. The "baby-faced" Kris Kristofferson is well worth the price of rental. Dylan's performance is one long wry wink at the Western genre. I watched the movie three times and still never heard Bob *SING* "Knockin' on Heaven's Door." Sure, there's a haunting instrumental version accompanying Chill Will's death walk to the creek bed, but I thought I remembered Bob singing it in the theatrically released version?

this needs to be on DVD!
This is a wonderful Western. Extremely stylish. Both Colburn and Kristofferson are cooler than cool. You might also want to check out the Last Days of Frank and Jesse James. It lacks Peckinpah's style and is a tv movie, but it's on DVD and Kristofferson is great as Jesse James.

Jack Elam at his best
The portrayal of Alamoosa Bill by Jack Elam is a classic. It's a shame The Kid has to shoot him, but it's the exclamation point of Elam's skill as an actor. The soundtrack is superb. Rita Coolige is in her prime. See it!

Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid
One of the best Westerns out there! I just love Rita Coolidge. I've got this movie on Letter Box Laser Disk, but I just can't wait till the DVD arrives! How much longer must we wait?? ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Fine miniseries based on the Nevil Shute novel
When a young Englishwoman, after WWII, inherits money, she soon decides to return to Malaya, where she was sheltered in a village after being captured by the Japanese, and build the villagers a well. Before winding up in the village, she, and other captive women and children, were forced to march from town to town by the Japanese, who did not know what to do with them. They meet Joe Harmon, an Australian soldier, who steals food for them, and is crucified by the Japanese and left for dead.

While in Malaya, she learns that Harmon survived, and goes to Australia to find him. Meanwhile, Harmon, who had thought she was a married woman when they met in Malaya, had learned otherwise, and gone to England to seek her out. They eventually meet up in Australia, and she determines to marry him and to make his town in the Outback into "a town like Alice"--a modern town, like Alice Springs.

Wonderful performances by all, great scenery, very faithful to the book. I should add that they added a bit of conflict near the end--Jean enters a bar, which is forbidden by the local mores, and Harmon rages at her and they nearly separate. Unneeded, to my mind. Also, when her trustee, Noel Stachan, takes her to the opera, he announces that it will be something light and in English. It is "The Pearl Fishers", which is neither.

Fine production, very watchable over and over!

WONDERFUL STORY, GREAT ACTING, POWERFUL
This has got to be the utimate love story. This movie shows that there doesn't have to be a lot of sex to show two people in love.

Based on Neville Shute's book, it is a story that encompasses four cultures and the struggles within those cultures and of a love that endures despite many hardships and time and distance.

Bryan Brown and Helen Morse are captivating in their roles as Joe Harmon and Jean Paget, two people who meet in the trying circumstances of war and are separated by fate but reunite again only to endure the hardships of the outback of Australia.

Beautiful scenery and wonderful acting make this a must see movie. Although long, it is a don't miss movie.

re Mr Greenbaum's comments
I have loved this movie for a long long time, ever since it was first shown on TV as a miniseries (in Australia). I think all the previous reviews are accurate, except Mr Greenbaum's comment that the scene where Joe Harmon chastises Jean about going into the Pub is not really necessary. I can only presume that Mr Greenbaum is not Australian; if he was, he would know only too well that even until about the late 1960's, no decent female would even think of entering the public bar of a Pub; that was forbidden; if a woman wanted to have a drink in a pub, she went to the "Ladies Lounge". I was born in 1954 and even though things have changed dramatically since then, I still am not confortable being in the public bar of a pub. So, I think that scene is very true and accurate for the times and a man would have spoken severely to his wife/girlfriend for going into that part of a pub.

Again, this is a wonderful move and I can only hope it is soon released on DVD as my VHS copy is damaged and VHS copies are no longer available in Australia.

a town like alice
brilliant in all aspects. Please bring it out on DVD

One of my all-time faves
Joe Harmon (played by Bryan Brown) rocks! And so does this whole movie, based on Nevil Shute's superb novel of the same name. It starts well, picks up speed, and gets better and better. During WWII, Jean (who is her family's only survivor) is force marched back and forth across Malaysia by the Japanese, who don't know what to do with a bunch of English women and children. As their group dwindles from starvation, fatigue, malaria and dystntery, Jean becomes the leader of the little group, and she negotiates a deal with the headman of a small village whose men have been taken off to fight in the war: if the village will shelter them, the surviving English will work in the rice fields.
But it was during the months of wandering that Jean met Joe Harmon, an Austrailian prisoner of war who steals food for her, is crucified and left for dead by the Japanese.
After the war, when Jean is back in England, she comes into her family's money, and she has a dream: to return to Malaya to build a well for the village women. To her amazement, she learns that Harmon actually survived: when the Japanese could not grant him his last wish, they were honor bound to save his life. Jean goes back to find him at the same time he, having just discovered that she wasn't married when he met her (a deception she fostered for her own protection), flies to England to look for her. The two planes cross.
But, as with most good love stories, they meet - and things are awkward and stilted. When he knew her, her hair was loose and tangled, she was barefoot and wearing a sarong, and she had an orphan child balanced on her hip. Now when he sees her, she's an English lady - and he's still just a bloke from the outback.
Oh, I'm telling too much. Suffice to say that Jean's attempt to resume their former easy and relaxed relationship while in Australia's Great Barrier Reef is spectacularly successful, and she's faced with spending the rest of her life in the desolate and lonely outback. Alice Springs, the nearest thing to 'civilization,' is too far to go, so Jean determines to spend her small fortune turning her little nowhere town into a place from which the young people will no longer flee in frustration. In short, she creates the world in which she wants to live and raise Joe's and her children.
It's so, so, so, so good, one of those videos you'll have to buy. Trust me on that. ... Read more

Reviews (62)

Great Movie, Bad DVD
First of all, the previous reviewer is mistaken, this is NOT a Disney movie but a Don Bluth movie (the one who also made An American Tail). This is a great movie, like An American Tail, and has a great score composed by James Horner and played by the London Symphony Orchestra (with the King's College Choir). The animation is pretty decent, some of the scenes (like the one near the end where Spike and Ducky slide across a shallow pool of water) are very nice. The story is pretty basic, but enjoyable for kids and adults (I saw this as a teen in the theaters). The characters are mostly very cute and charming, especially Ducky and Petri.

And YET, this DVD sucks really bad and no one should buy it. This DVD is NOT widescreen or anamorphic at all. It's pretty shameful when EVEN Disney is making their DVDs widescreen. Furthermore, there are absolutely NO extras on this DVD. I would have especially appreciated to have trailers, tv spots, audio commentary by Bluth (or others), making of feature, etc. At the very least, widescreen and a trailer. Yes, this is a children's movie, but that doesn't mean it has to be fullscreen! It doesn't take much to put in both full and widescreen versions either. The same goes for "The Secret Of NIMH," another Bluth film given the fullscreen treatment.

BOYCOTT THIS ANNOYING DVD AND DEMAND THAT THEY RELEASE A WIDESCREEN COLLECTOR'S EDITION OF THIS REALLY GREAT MOVIE!!

You'll be happy you did!

THE FIRST WILL ALWAYS BE THE BEST!!
The first Land Before Time will always be the best. To me, Part 4 was the best sequel.(I only saw Parts 1-5). This movie descends from being a "family dinosaur" movie. First of all, it tells the simple story of a baby dinosaur being left alone in a touching and vulnerable way. The hatching scene is still memorable. Then, it transits into a whole different thing. Different dinosaurs of different species come together to make the track to the Great Valley. They all had different personalites: a likable pterdactyl trying to learn to fly, a happy-go-lucky water dinosaur, a dominating triceratops, a simple spiked dinosaur, and a brontasaurus who brought out the best in everyone. Also, it seemed to be interesting of how they would trap Sharp-Tooth, and how they had names for all the dinosaurs like"long neck". It's so, how do I say, cute? They have all different kinds of adventures, and a great lesson in friendship.

I still can't understand how so many sequels were made. What's so different about them? Sequels 2-4 were good, but after that the plots were all just deja vu. It's always about dinosaurs, or change, or metoers, or whatever. It sounds like they just teach the same lessons over and over: the benefits of friendship. If you liked this movie, you might want to see Parts 2,3,and 4. See, the sequels just ignore the plots of the last, and start a big cliche all over agian. I hear they'll be a part 8. It should be called The Land Before Time: Enough Already!

So, please see the land before time,one of the most decent animated films I've ever seen. It'll be worthwhile. I guarentee.

Amazing
george lucas and steven speilburg film. The first one is the best. Great music, great narrator, awsome story line. All kids will love this.

outstanding
This movie is definitely a five star movie. Everyone should watch this movie and I know they will enjoy it as much as I do. I own ever movie that has came out and I can watch them over and over.

I was born the year it came out
This movie was one of the first movies that I saw. It was one of the best movies and is still today. I have seen all of them except the newest one. This movie is a classic. you should buy it for your kids. Happy anniversy! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

A phenomenal hit when it was released in 1989, Field of Dreams has become a modern classic and a uniquely American slice of cinema. It functions effectively as a moving drama about the power of dreams, a fantasy ode to our national pastime, and a brilliant adaptation of W.P.Kinsella's exquisite baseball novel Shoeless Joe. Kinsella himself found the film a delightful surprise, differing greatly from his novel but benefiting from its own creative variations. It is the film that cemented Kevin Costner's status as an all-American screen star, but the story resonates far beyond Costner's handsome appeal. As just about everyone knows by now, Costner stars as Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella, who hears the mysterious words "If you build it, he will come," and is compelled to build a baseball diamond in the middle of his cornfield. His wife (Amy Madigan) supports the wild idea, but a reclusive novelist (modeled after J.D. Salinger and played by James Earl Jones) is not so easily persuaded. The idealistic farmer is either a visionary or a deluded fool, but his persistence is rewarded when spirits from baseball's past begin appearing on the ball field. Past and present intermingle in the person of "Moonlight Graham" (superbly played by Burt Lancaster), an unknown player who sacrificed his dreams of baseball glory for a dignified life as a small-town physician ... but what all of this means is unclear until the film's memorably heartfelt conclusion. A meditation on family, memory, and faith, the film balances humor and magic to strike just the right chord of thoughtful emotion, affecting audiences so deeply that the baseball field created for the production has now become a mecca of sorts for dreamers around the world. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (149)

One of Costner's Best Movies
This ranks as one of my favorite movies of all time. You don't have to be a baseball fan to appreciate the nostalgia and warm heartedness this movie brings to the big screen - well little screen in the case of the DVD. It's part ghost story, part fantasy, part nostalgia. It's also about redemption and the fulfillment of dreams.

The story begins when Ray Kinsella, a reluctant Iowa farmer, although he won't admit he's reluctant, starts hearing a voice telling him "build it and he will come." Ray dreams, ponders and finally plows under many acres of his crop to build a baseball field on his farm, against all rational logic. And the magic begins. This magic takes Ray on a strange quest in search of a '60s radical holed up in a New York City apartment writing children's books played by James Earl Jones - to tell why would spoil the movie. But suffice it to say Jones ends up with one of the most memorable "speeches" in the movie about the nostalgia of baseball.

It's hard to really do justice to the plot without spoiling the movie but it will at times give you chills and in the end is very uplifting.

Grand Slam
On the surface, Field Of Dreams, seems like it belongs as an epidsode of The Twilight Zone. The cynic in me takes it one step further, and says, "there's no way I can buy into this sentimental hockum". As I watched the film for the first time, all of those concerns melted away, leaving me with a sense of wonder...normally reserved for children

Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) is inspired by a voice he can't ignore that will take him on a journey that will change his life forever. Supported by his wife Annie (Amy Madigan), Ray begins his special quest by turning a portion of his cornfields into a baseball diamond. Along the way he meets reclusive activist Terence Mann (James Earl Jones), the mysterious 'Doc' Graham (Burt Lancaster) and even the legendary 'Shoeless Joe' Jackson (Ray Liotta).

Adapted from W.P. Kinsella's novel "Shoeless Joe", director Phil Alden Robinson, has created a fine tribute to the sport of Baseball, the fans who love the game, and more importantly, it's a metaphor about father's and sons everywhere. Aside from a handfull of films, I don't really think of Kevin Costner, as a good actor. As Ray though, he gives one of the best perfomances of his career, ideally capturing the sense of wonder I talked about earlier. Of course it doesn't hurt that James Earl Jones and Burt Lancaster are there to back you up. Both men add so much to the film, giving a sense of realism and warmth, that may have seemed artificial had lesser actors been cast. As Joe Jackson, Liotta is very effective and I had forgotten just how good he can be in a non gangster/bad guy role. For more on the life of Joe Jackson and the World Series scandal that rocked the sport, be sure to watch Eight Men Out, another winner. Field Of Dreams also boasts one of composer James Hornor's best scores.

I don't really know why I never picked up the Collector's Edition of the DVD. But after watching the Anniversary Edition 2 disc set, all I can say is, I'm glad I waited. The remastered picture and 5.1 sound very clean transfers and work well on either my TV, or, my speaker enhanced PC. The audio commentary with Robinson and the film's director of photography John Lindley is very good. Both men are well spoken, never dull, and clearly respected the source material In keeping with the father/son themes I spoke of, I especially enjoyed "...Passing Along the Pastime" - memories of father and son baseball as recounted by the director, star, and major league baseball players. The newly discovered deleted scenes are mostly throwaway stuff that was wisely cut. I was surprised to learn while watching "The Diamond in the Husks", that the baseball set made for the film still exists, and attracts tourists every year. We also get to visit the Minnesota home town of Moonlight Doc Graham. "A Look Inside Field of Dreams is a new 90-minute documentary on the film and its lasting appeal. Also included is a 48 minute segment of the Bravo channel series "From Page to Screen" on the movie. The "Field of Dreams Roundtable", with Costner and former baseball players, including Bret Saberhagen talk about the state of the game and the film. Trivia buffs will really like the topper to the set, fun facts about America's stadiums.

Field Of Dreams is not your typical "sports" movie. Indeed, it's much more than that...Even though, I never had the chance as kid to pitch baseballs with my dad, the movie allows me to dream that I can...

Sentimental nonsense
Sports fans tend to be both nostalgiac and sentimental and sports movies tend to fall into the same trap. This movie is a perfect example of why sports, and especially baseball, rarely makes for great cinematic subject matter. Corny, predictable and manipulative- perhaps baseball fans might enjoy it, but I can't imagine anyone else sitting through it.

It was you. -- No, it was YOU.
When I attended the Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa, we were given one rule: "Never write about Christmas, the circus or baseball." The reasoning was that these three topics were just too ingrained in the American psyche, they were too iconic, and that they had been used too often. Well, I'm glad that Ray Kinsella (author of the book "Field of Dreams") and screenwriter Phil Alden Robinson didn't attend the Iowa Writers' Workshop.

FIELD OF DREAMS is a marvelous examination of America's infatuation with baseball and a moving exploration of family loyalties. Ray (as sensitively played by Kevin Costner) has a loving wife (Amy Madigan, making it look so easy) and a doting daughter, but something is missing. A voice tells him that he must build a baseball field in his corn crop (in Iowa!). When he does, the apparition of Shoeless Joe Jackson (Ray Liotta) shows up to play. What follows is a series of baseball adventures on and off Ray's baseball diamond, as well as in and out of the present day. Eventually, it becomes apparent that what was missing in Ray's life can only be addressed through baseball, and through a cultural icon from his past, played by the ubiquitous James Earl Jones.

When everything is resolved, there's a bit of throwaway dialogue that, in reality, is very moving. "It was you," Ray tells Shoeless Joe Jackson in reference to the voice he'd heard early in the film. "No, it was YOU," Jackson replies, indicating that
Ray's conscience prompted the entire adventure. Don't let anyone tell you that FIELD OF DREAMS is just a baseball movie. That would be like someone telling you that baseball is just a game.

1989 Classic And Kevin Costner's Best Film
On DVD, the movie is loaded with extra features including commentary, interviews, trailer, etc. This was on Channel 7 last week. Kevin Costner stars as a suburban family man who is hearing voices. "If you built it they will come". The voices keep changing their messages and lead him in pursuit of the gathering of baseball legends who have passed away. The goal is to establish a "field of dreams" a baseball park with old pros playing and a magic working on its audience. And it did for many people when this movie was released in 1989. Too many, it was a movie about hope, following your dreams and persistence. Kevin Costner is doing a terrific performance and is perhaps doing his greatest role. He was merely a romantic lead in the early 90's "The Bodyguard" with Whitney Houston and he was not as committed in "Dances With Wolves" which though the right kind of movie for him was not as interesting enough a character as he is in this movie. Other than this movie, his only fine role was in J.F.K. In this film, he plays a dedicated and persistent dreamer who discovers that indeed dreams come true if you hold fast. A great job by all the actors, including James Earl Jones (the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars) as the hermit and elusive author Terrence Mann, who wrote books in the 60's advocating love and peace. He is supposedly modeled after J.D. Salinger. The chemistry between James Earl Jones and Kevin Costner, especially in the scene in which Costner attempts to pursuade him to join him to a baseball game is exceptional. Magical and unexpected things start to happen as the voices carry him onward through his mission, including a trip back in time to 1972. Bring the magic home in this remarkable DVD. It's as much an adult's movie as it is for the whole family. It's almost a Disney film. Five stars. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

One of the Better B Terror Films
I saw this when first released at the theater. It was a great terror movie. The tension runs throughout the movie as a group tries to escape a planet that prays upon their fears. One scene with a giant caterpillar and a scantilly clad lady was rather erotic. A good movie for fans of movies like Hellraiser and Phantasm. Erin Moran even does a decent job of acting.

Forbidden Planet meets Event Horizon
This is a strange little film. The poster art shows a scantily-clad woman being menaced by monsters. This is not really accurate. This is a psychological terror as opposed to a more overt monster film.

Things are ruled by The Master, a red-glowing figure. He hand picks a rescue team to journey to a distant planet. There they find little to rescue. For some reason they blow up the bodies they find. But soon they are targets of things that appear and disappear from all sensors.

For much of the movie the characters explore a huge alien pyramid where they each have to come face to face with their worst fears. I particularly liked the warrior who had a breakdown because his crystal throwing stars broke.

In the end we learn more about The Master, who he is, how he became The Master, and what he has been up to with this mission.

There are monsters. There is gore. There is even a little suspense. There is an impressive cast (Ray Walston, Erin Moran, Robert Englund, Zalman King). But somehow it just doesn't really come together as well as it should have. To many of the fears involved monsters even though Erin Moran's character was claustrophobic. Fans of bad movies will want to watch this one at least once.

Alien rip-off!
This movie is an obvious rip-off of ALIEN. However , unlike alien, it just does not measure up. The acting and dialogue are absolutely horrendous and The soundtrack has a cheesy 70s sci-fi style. The special effects are pretty good (considering...) and they resemble ALIEN very closely (the corridors, the planet's surface.....). Unfortunately this film just does not draw you in and it makes you lose interest in it fairly quickly. Overall: MEDIOCRE.

Galaxy of Terror might be cheesy but it's fun LOL
Well what can I say ? this was made in 1981 .... it features Erin Moran ( Joanie from Happy days ) and it also has Rober englund playing a small part . the ONLY reason to see this movie is ONE) to see Erin Moran get constricted until she pops ( and I mean POP! ) and for the massive amounts of Blood and gore ...... and the movie was also somewhat prophetic in that Robert Englund has to fight himself , and the evil self looks like none other than FREDDIE!!!!!! then there's the fact that MR. Titanic Terminator James Cameron is the executive Prod. for this flick ( if you doubt me get it and watch the Credits . SO .... if you're looking for a brainless but fun Horror flick ... this is it .... but if you're looking for an artsy space "Film" ..... keep going . ... Read more

Amazon.com

Jennifer Jones plays the legendary French peasant who claimed to have dialogues with the Virgin Mary at a Lourdes grotto in 1858. The script handles the visitations as an article of truth (Linda Darnell plays the Virgin), which helps move the drama forward, though much of the story concerns the conflicts that arise in the community after Jones is told the grotto contains healing waters. Made by Henry King (The Snows of Kilimanjaro), the film is gorgeous to look at and sensitively directed; and Jones (who won an Oscar for Best Actress) is radiant in the lead. Whatever one's religious persuasion, this is a strikingly handsome Hollywood production to be enjoyed. The film also earned Academy Awards for cinematography and score. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Wonderful, But Still Missing...Something
This is a wonderful, even classic, adaptation of Franz Werfel's haunting, heartbreaking story of the Lourdes apparitions. The cinematography is excellent, the characters are handled with respect and realistic flair, and Jennifer Jones seems to be channeling Bernadette Soubirous in convincing fashion. The film's flaws? Sentimentalism in some cases bogs it down, especially when the angelic choirs start to sing lauds as the 'vision' makes its appearance. Corny to the extreme, if you ask me. The initial moment of the apparition was a stark and frightening one for Bernadette, according to the gathered records of the incident(s), not an experience accompanied by cheery seraphic warblings. This scene should have been filmed in a stark manner, to capture the surprise, abruptness, initial terror, and realism of the experience. Secondly, the actual Virgin Mary figure (played by a somewhat plumpish Linda Darnell) is also a bit garish: she resembles any of the cheesy, cheap, grotesque plaster "Mary" lawn ornaments that are the hallmark of Catholic kitsch.This stereotypical Mary is an unfortunate cop-out. The film makes no attempt to capture the haunting dignity and true historical nature of Bernadette's visitor, whom the seeress herself described in early testimony as "ou petito damizelo"--a "little pixie-girl," no more than 13 or 14 years of age and certainly not maternal in any way whatsoever. What the film DOES successfully capture is the impact of the many miraculous, mysterious events that descended upon a real town, among real people. It also captures a glimpse of the special, undeniable love shared between Bernadette and the enigmatic being who revealed herself only (and perhaps with a wistful sense of irony) as 'the Immaculate Conception.' A fine, fine film and worth owning for anyone of pure heart.

INSPIRING FILM - DISMAL TRANSFER
"The Song of Bernadette" is a film that by all accounts should distill into a religious pot boiler. And yet there is something haunting, awe inspiring and yes, even stirring about this tale of a child, Bernadette Soubirous (Jennifer Jones) who, after witnessing visions of the Virgin Mary, begins to have miracles performed in the small French town of Lourdes. Jones is angelic, tenderly conveying the warmth, innocence and poignancy of someone truly touched by the hand of God. Anne Revere is cast as Bernadette's non-believer mother. Vincent Price turns in a wicked performance as the town magistrate who, weary that Bernadette's claims will insight religious fervor, threatens the child with imprisonment unless she ceases with her visions. Charles Bickford and Gladys Cooper give outstanding performances as the skeptical priest and nun who come to believe that Bernadette is divinely inspired. Truly, this is a film that requires a whole box of Kleenex to get through. It is haunting, stirring and overall life affirming.

However, the transfer from Fox is poor, even though it improves upon previous VHS and Laserdisc versions. Though the B&W picture exhibits sharpness and better balancing of the gray scale the image is digitally harsh and suffers from an excessive amount of film grain. Aliasing and shimmering of fine details is evident throughout. Pixelization is another down fall. The audio has been cleaned up and is well presented.
Extras include a Jennifer Jones Biography, an audio commentary, a Movietones trailer, some Fox promotional stuff for other movies in their classic series, a restoration film to video comparison that proves that at least some work was done on the transfer before sending it out to DVD and this film's original theatrical trailer.

The Song of Bernadette
This movie had a deep and profound impact on me when I first watched it on television as a young teen. It is beautifully done a real tribute to film making. The acting is outstanding and I fully believed and empathized with young Bernadette as portrayed by Jennifer Jones. I was a protestant at the time I first watched the movie. The effect it had on me sent me on a journey that eventually lead me to Medjugorje and then to becomimg Catholic. I strongly would recommend this film to everyone. It is beautiful, moving, very touching, a profound experience for all who have an open heart.

Excellent
Written by a Jewish man, The Song of Bernadette, is wonderfully brought to the big screen. Typical of old black and white "Hollywood". Very well acted, full bodied characters. A great family movie.

Universal Thematic Appeal
The Song of Bernadette begins with the classic quote, "For those who believe in God, no explanation is necesary. For those who don't, no explanation is possible."

That having been said, one need not be religious to enjoy this film. What makes the movie so enjoyable is that it contains man's universal struggle with religion and his sense of meaning. Vincent Price does an excellent job of portraying the fatalistic expert, while Church officials are accurately protrayed as questioners - but not outright denyers - of the possibility of miraculous events.

Jennifer Jones is fantastic, and accurately portrays the reported humble nature of St. Bernadette.

Definitely one to see at least once. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

this is Elvis Presley at his best and with the best
i've seen all Elvis's movies, but Flaming Star is the one film whereby his talent as an actor in a dramatic role comes forth highly convincing on the screen. John McIntyre and Delores Del Rio; superbly cast as parents of two brothers who through racial conflict pull apart, then rejoin to save the life of the other. A classic western with Steve Forrest at his best and Barbara Eden in a role you can't easily forget. Too many great actors to mention here. This movie, which I do hope will be on DVD, is not shown enough on t.v. movie networks and i believe has never received the recognition it so deserves. Elvis should have won an academy award for his portrayal as Pacer. to me, there is no other Elvis movie but Flaming Star. Get your hankies out girls; toward the end of the film, when Pacer (Elvis) rides into the hills in search of the "Flaming Star".

How much violence does it take to screw up a movie?
Parents: this film was rated from the parental rating: Objectionable for children.

Elvis Presley stars in this almost gory film. Which takes Elvis into Western movies.

Elvis Preseley plays an indian in Flaming Star. His character name is Pacer Burton.

His mother (Dolores Del Rio) is killed by a white man (Douglas Dick).

And leaves home. This is not one of Elvis best movies. I am a big Elvis Presley fan.

I have seen a lot of better movies that Elvis Presley was in. Like Jailhouse Rock. He tries to prove that he can do a lot more than singing.

And in a lot of movies, he sings. But I don't see how any Elvis Presley fan whould enjoy this movie.

I'm giving this movie 2 stars for one reason. A. He doesn't sing very much in this movie. There are two songs in this movie (and none are sung after the first 10 minutes).

He ties his brother (Steve Forrest) to a horse and joins other indians.

This movie was oringally written for Marlon Brando. And dropped out of the movie and Elvis takes his place.

I might have given this movie more than two stars if more songs was added. If Elvis wasn't suppose to sing in this movie the songs should have been cut.

this is Elvis Presley at his best and with the best
i've seen all Elvis's movies, but Flaming Star is the one film whereby his talent as an actor in a dramatic role comes forth highly convincing on the screen. John McIntyre and Delores Del Rio; superbly cast as parents of two brothers who through racial conflict pull apart, then rejoin to save the life of the other. A classic western with Steve Forrest at his best and Barbara Eden in a role you can't easily forget. Too many great actors to mention here. This movie, which I do hope will be on DVD, is not shown enough on t.v. movie networks and i believe has never received the recognition it so deserves. Elvis should have won an academy award for his portrayal as Pacer. to me, there is no other Elvis movie but Flaming Star. Get your hankies out girls; toward the end of the film, when Pacer (Elvis) rides into the hills in search of the "Flaming Star".

A Good Movie
Barbara Eden is Great in the movie playing Steve Forrest's character's girlfriend.Elvis sings the theme song and in the square dance scene he sings a song though he doesn't sing any other songs after that.The movie is a western drama and a good movie.Dolores Del Rio is in the movie also.Directed by one of the best directors Don Seigel who directed Clint Eastwood.The DVD has the original movie commercial.

A billion, trillion stars!
For the star to end all stars, Elvis, this movie is greatness among a movie career that's, well, not so great. Finally on DVD, with beautiful picture quality, I adore this movie. There is no cheese here.
This is not chock full of songs, this is not a musical, and the few musical numbers here are well-done and in context. You don't get a cheesy 1960's sounding song in this 19th century western, the songs actually sound like they belong. Again I must stress, there are only a few songs and they don't take anything away from, rather they add TO the film. That man could sing, but surprise surprise, he could also act.
He is a halfbreed. Part white, part Native American. Constantly he is torn between loyalties, but moreso from this deep desire to remain fair to all in his life. The scenes of tenderness are of the utmost affection, and the scenes of violence express the real anguish of such a life. I'm not exaggerating when I say that sometimes when I watch this movie I feel as if I'm spying on a 19th century scene, it's that convincing, friends.
There is such a magical quality about this movie. It's so different from anything Elvis had done before or since that it almost seems like he would have done the film for free...he loves what he's doing and puts his soul into it.
Note that Col. Parker scoffed at the idea of "his boy" Elvis doing a "political" film like this. The Colonel was not one who liked to stir the pot too much when he felt the mixture was just right. This is one of few occasions where Elvis went ahead and did what he thought was the right project. If anyone is curious, check into the numerous films that were offered to Elvis and refused by the Colonel. Least of which was the now legendary 1968 'Comeback' Special in which Elvis both re-invents and re-establishes his throne as the King of Rock and Roll. The Colonel wanted the 1968 special to be a cheesy xmas show with Elvis in a tuxedo singing to snowmen and Santa (which would have probably been the colonel in a red suit). What a disaster and a loss that would have been.
Anyway - Elvis shines like the bright star he is in Flaming Star. Absolutely terrific, wonderful movie that I can't say enough good things about. I have not one complaint except that there weren't more cast from this dye. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This first part of the critically acclaimed 1976 television miniseries focuses on the early lives of Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt, concluding on their wedding day. The story is mostly told in flashback, as the first lady receives word of the death of President Roosevelt and, while making funeral preparations, reflects on her life with him. Distant relatives in the wealthy and sprawling Roosevelt family of New York, young Franklin and Eleanor met several times during their childhood, and much of the action in this installment of the drama utilizes young actors, including Mackenzie Phillips, who plays Eleanor at the age of 14. Playing the main characters as young adults, Edward Herrmann and Jane Alexander are brilliant in portraying the great American love story, as the privileged yet socially awkward Franklin finds himself completely captivated by the brainy and conscientious Eleanor. The miniseries was based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning book by historian Joseph P. Lash, and interspersed with the human drama are vignettes out of American history, such as cameo appearances by Eleanor's uncle Teddy, whose enormous personality suits his job as president of the United States. Eleanor and Franklin won 11 Emmy Awards, and its intelligent screenplay and fine acting have aged very well, making this a thoroughly enjoyable film. --Robert J. McNamara ... Read more

Reviews (1)

excellent look at the real Eleanor Roosevelt
the actresses portraying Eleanor in this film were well picked to play the part, Eleanor is portrayed as a real woman not just a political figure with no feelings- it kept my attention the whole 3 hours 22 min of the entire movie VOL1 & 2 included ... Read more

Reviews (2)

GREAT MOVIE!!
I'm not a Tom Cruise fan but this gets two thumbs up! Saw it twice in the theater, and am gonna buy it on DVD and watch it again!!

Micheal Mann will do it again
I know this movie will be awesome this is a Micheal Mann movie. Just look at the list of movies he's made Manhunter, Heat (one of my all time favorites), The Insider (another one of my all time favorites), and Ali. In all Micheal Mann's movies there are alway's awesome plot's, plot twists and performances. Ten years ago Tom Cruise was an awesome bad guy in Interview with the vampire, and again Tom Cruise will be awesome as a bad guy. I know Jamie Foxx who is always good, and Mark Ruffalo will put on good perfomances. So be ready for a night on the town. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Sweet childhood film
Quite simply, this is one of the best childhood films I have ever seen. It has so much continuity, integrity and lyricism in presenting its subject, a little boy, that the film becomes a sweet parable on maturity, idealism, love, affection and god knows what else. This is one of the most thoroughly satisfying movie experiences I have had, and the director, Steven (sex, lies and videotape) Soderbergh, knows the subject inside out (in fact, he adapted the movie for the screen). The hero is the viewer's vicarious link to the events of the 1930's, when this movie takes place, and his performance is one of the most unaffected child performances you are likely to enjoy. Look at the photography, listen to the music, enjoy this movie, because this is one of the few pictures that I've seen that evokes the period of its subject so completely, that immerses the viewer in its young hero's trivial ( or life- threatening) dilemmas with such deftness . This is a movie to be praised for its depth of discernment of that tumultuous time period when "half Missouri would work for fifty cents" END

An excellent film!
This is one on the finest films I have ever seen. And I am sure that many people can relate to the movie. Jesse Bradford does an excellent performance, and it's a shame that this film has not been given greater recognition.

A Surprising Gem
One of the more overlooked Steven Soderbergh movies, but perhaps one of the best, this little film wisely portrays an appealing and poignant coming-of-age story in a late-twenties America. Although the plot brings nothing new, this movie is still very well-crafted, suceeding in every element. The acting is uniformely great, the score is compelling, the directing is captivating and the colour texture of the scenes is memmorable. Soderbergh manages to tell a bitersweet tale, both funny and sad, remaining believable and true-to-life from beginning to end. The last scene in particular is an excellent mix between hapiness and melancholy, providing and adequate ambiguous resolution. Jesse Bradford is excellent as the confused smart kid in trouble, offering an honest and very convincing performance. Frankly, I think this movie is much better than some overrated films ..., the more well-known titles that turned Soderbergh into a big name director.

A solid cinematic experience.

a dvd that totally should be released!!!
I remember seeing this movie on STARZ when I was younger. I loved it so much. The way the characters were portrayed made me want to see it over again and again. After seeing the movie I found out my grandma had the book. It is also really good. I have been searching for this movie on dvd for a long time. I finally decided to search a query again on here and see that it is pending to be released.

The movie is both comical and dramatic. Aaron has to fend for himself while his mother is in an institution, his brother at camp, and his father is selling useless stuff during The Depression.

Aaron strives so hard to do the best he can and well I can't spoil the movie for everyone....SO RELEASE THE MOVIE ON DVD!!!

UNAPPRECIATED MASTERPIECE
A movie you won't forget (worth 6 stars!), about a little boy growing up in St. Louis during the Depression (only the movie is for adults). Experience the overwh