Description

Sexual thriller with Al Pacino as a young cop who must go undercover as a gay 'cruiser' in New York City. There's a homicidal homophobe on the streets, brutally killing gay men, and it's up to Pacino to stop him. Shot on location in several gay bars of the era. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Huh? What happened?
It is really bizarre watch one of the Corleones playing a leather daddy - but that's just what Pacino does (has he ever played any other part in all the films he's made?). But what is more bizarre is that this film was ever green lighted. It is based on a book that had to have been better than the tripe here. I've seen this movie several times; each time hoping that I will actually be able to figure out "who done it". Friedkin, who is typically an excellent director, leaves the ending open for question (in my opinion) and as such confuses the viewer. I have read that Friedkin did this on purpose, but I don't know why. When I want to watch a mystery film, I expect to have some resolution at the end. This films doesn't provide me with that satisfaction.

Further, this is a VERY violent and repugnant film, depicting a small segment of the gay community, but the casual viewer isn't aware of that fact. It's a dark, depressing, and angry film that seems to not know what it wants to say or how to say it.

A Great-Thinking Person's Thriller
Cruising showcases one of Al Pacino's greatest performances as a rookie police officer who is sent undercover to investigate a series of gay murders.

I have watched this William Friedkin-directed film several times and always walk away with a different interpretation as to the events that I had just witnessed: Is the Pacino character straight or gay? Does the Pacino character actually engage in any gay sex acts while undercover - or does he fake it (we never actually see him do anything). Does the Pacino character become a killer at the end of the film - or did someone else kill Pacino's next door neighbor, Ted? And was that Pacino going to a gay club at the end of the film, or was that a flashback?

The Pacino character undergoes a complex, emotional catharsis - but it is always unclear to me if it was for the better - or for the worse.

This is Friedkin's third best film. His best were The Exorcist, To Live and Die In L.A. - with The French Connection coming in fourth.

Sadly, Friedkin - once a great artist - has forgotten how to make films anymore (ever see Jade?). But at least we have those four great ones to remind future directors of how to craft a film.

Underated film
I first heard about cruising when I was watching a documentary on Al Pacino and I couldn't belive that I had never heard of it. The film looked very Dark and I couldn't wait to see it. I waited six whole months to see when eventually I spent twelve pounds to watch it on filmfour. I taped it so I could watch it again. I was stunned at how much people didn't like the film. The film was a very interesting study of the gay underworld and Pacino's performance as a gay undercover cop was great. Although it does have some unexplained parts. Like the part where the naked cop is slapping Pacino and a killer suspect. I've watched the film many times and I still can't work out the ending. The only thing I can think of is that Pacino is the killer.
Overall it was a great film with a few confusing moments.

Cruisin
I really liked this movie.My brother has it on vhs. I have all of Al Pacino's DVD's and would like to own this movie as well. Please release this one on DVD-I do not buy VHS. As each movie comes out on DVD of Al's-I buy it. I wait until it comes out on DVD.Please release it!

Thanks. I am a big fan of AL PACINO!

It's not supposed to be a documentary.
It's hard to tell what William Friedkin is driving at in this grim tour of New York City's leathers bars. Al Pacino plays a detective who infiltrates this fringe of the homosexual world to flush out a killer, and whose own sexual identity becomes blurred in the process. It starts out strong but ultimately is too confusing and clichéd to be called "good." ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Two episodes
It should be noted that this 95 minute video contains two episodes: "To Reign in Hell," (the episode described by the professional review) and "Orphans," one of the best eps of the series. The compelling stories, the consummate acting of Ron Perlman and Tony Jay, the beautiful sets, and the whole concept of B&B are all great reasons to own this video.

super
i think that this is the best show in the whole wide world. It was on the Sci-Fi channel but they took it off. I think they should bring it back because this show is so good and awesome and ragin'. Please e-mail me if you agree and don't say that this show no good b/c it doesn't ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Wonderful!
This is a great tape and has the first epiode the pilot Once Upon A Time In The City Of New York and is wonderful it is about how Catherine Chandler is attacked and Vincent finds her and brings her to his underground home to recover and soon a bond develops, a soul mate kind of love! I think this particular tape may only have the pilot but the tape we have also has an episode called A Happy Life and is about Catherine dealing with the anniversary of her mother's death. Both are great episodes but my favorite is the pilot episode! Linda Hamilton from the Terminator movies plays Catherine and Vincent is played by Ron Perlman. I highly recommend this video to fans of Beauty and the Beast.

Beauty and the Beast - the dream lives on.
This first part to the series is the one so many people fell in love with and it is a must if you have never seen Beauty and the Beast before. For from that first episode so starts the relationship between the man beast Vincent Wells and the beautiful district attorney Catherine Chandler. From the very first this couple captured our hearts, especially Vincent, who soon had his own following - as everyone that watched the series wanted to take him home. Soon he became every woman's dream as to the perfect man, and it became apparent that outward appearances are not important, it is the beauty of the inner self that shines through any differences. That and the fact that Vincent has the most gorgeous blue eyes, gravelly sexy voice, a marvelous physique and a love of the finer things in life such as good music and literature. And Vincent made us review our own life and made us better people. Vincent was played to perfection by the man behind the makeup - Ron Perlman. And there is a marvelous chemistry that exists between Mr Perlman and Linda Hamilton the actress that plays Catherine Chandler, that made their roles oh so believeable. Buy it, watch it and you will be forever pleased that you did. There is a huge fan following for this show who are campaigning to have more episodes made and hopefully a movie too.

PLEASE release this on DVD
I grew up watching this show and loved every episode. I've been trying to find them for years. Ron Perlman is amazing as Vincent and the actor who played Father was everything a kid could want. You really rooted for Perlman and Hamilton. PLEASE release this series on DVD.

Dvd
This was one of the best shows out there... I highly recommend it being put on dvd

This Show Should Have Complete Season DVD Boxsets!
Beauty and the Beast is a great show and Linda Hamilton and Ron Perlman gave amazing performances as Catherine and Vincent. I used to watch Beauty and the Beast when it was on CBS and I also used to have this tape. There used to be reruns of this show on cable but it never seems to be shown anymore and I would like to see Beauty and the Beast put out on DVD in complete season DVD boxsets. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Stupid
Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid Stupid
And once more Stupid
2 thumbs down and a fart!

The Classic "Hard to Find" Horror Movie
This particular movie in the Stepfather series is kind of comical (like part 2). The actor portrays a "dorky" or "square" sort of a guy who is really a psychopath. This crazy guy receives plastic surgery to keep his cover and he moves to some "cornball" suburban neighborhood. He takes a job working as a gardener for some fat, trashy looking dude.

Of course, this psychopath does the whole Catholic church bit and tries to be normal and meets a new woman. He eventually marries this woman who also has a son. He tries to connect with the son but the son thinks the guy is a total nerd. Things soon go awry with this new family because Keith the "loony" (main character) has some weird "perfect family" image.

On one of his gardening routes he meets another woman (now we have Keith the "player") where he engages into some more intimate social contact. His boss catches on to this new deal and confronts the psychopath (the dialogue during this scene is absolutely hilarious and eventful). The boss soon realizes he made a mistake when he finds a rake swung into his chest and abdomen simultaneously. He looks like a pansy gardener but is really a vicious killer (what an original idea?!). I am sure you can guess what kind of organic material he uses for growing his flowers!

Anyways, there are a series of events that take place (the priest suddenly found dead, the two woman finding out about each other, the smart stepson on his "sleuthing" adventure, etc.) that all lead to a classic chaotic ending. I am an extreme horror fan and have spanned all elements of gore and mystification(some laced with comical "corniness," such as this flick, without detracting from the psychopathic intensity). This movie pops up in my mind much of the time and is so hard to find...unless your using amazon. Rent it or buy it if you can...you will not be disappointed if your a true horror fan!

Really Scary Movie.
I really liked this movie a lot. The movie was spine-tingling and there are lots of shock scenes here. The evil stepfather goes after a single mom and her disabled son after he had plastic surgery, so the FBI couldn't find him. Three's Company star Priscilla Barnes gives a really belivable performence as the mother.

Poor Sequel.
Unfortunantly, this third film in the Stepfather series dosn't feature Terry O'Quinn, the great actor who did a great job portraying the psychopath who marries and kills widows. However, this film just dosn't stand up in comparison to the other two films. Only watch if it's a slow Saturday night and there is nothing else to watch. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Bitter-sweet triumph
This video, although beautiful and astounding cannot be watched without seeing the episodes surrounding it: "What Rough Beast" , Ceremony of Innocence" , and " The Rest is Silence" . Once you have seen these Though Lovers be lost will steal your heart and capture your soul.

Beauty & The Beast-Though Lovers Be Lost
I love all of the Beauty & The Beast episodes from the TV series. I have most on VHS. To Peggy Hendershot, I may have the ones you are looking for. I tried to never miss an episode!

Wonderful show
I have loved this show since it orginally aired. I used to have all of them, but moving so much, I have lost most of them. I would love to get the complete set if anyone can help me. This show really should be reaired. ecb612@hotmail.com

Though Lover's Be Lost
This is for Dawna and Peggy. I have 20 episodes on tape, and looking for more. I would be interested in sharing what we all have.
Tina
ldy8legs@aol.com

Great show, looking for all the videos
I was in my first year of middle school when this show came on and was absolutely enthralled. All the episodes were great, but I missed the last season (punishment for a bad report card, lol). Would desperately love to get the complete set from someone! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Can't Live with Him, Can't Live without Him
This episode deals quite seriously (and often in a lovely lyrical fashion) with the serious consequences (for Catherine) of her relationship with Vincent. On the 20th anniversary of her mother's death, Catherine is overcome with a sense of hopelessness about her life. The problem seems to be...Vincent. She must confront the fact that their relationship is closing her off from life possibilities for which she has always longed. As he tells her, "Our dream exists at the cost of all your other dreams." Her pain is so great that (in an extremely powerful scene) the superhumanly chivalrous Vincent gives her the breakup she so desperately needs (though doing so, for him, is akin to ripping his heart out of his chest). It is a breakup she could never, ever, bring herself to directly ask for. It takes time away from Vincent for Catherine to come to a realization of what in her life is indeed "worth everything." She makes her choice, and she and Vincent (and we) derive great joy from that decision. I've never (before or since) experienced such joy at the finish of an episode of a TV series!

Linda Hamilton is so good here that she gives us an empathic connection to Catherine that is stronger than Vincent's. "A Happy Life" is a thing of stunning beauty and power, and I don't think there is a significant misstep in it. This episode and the magnificent "Orphans" are by far the highest pinnacles of achievement for this series.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "A Happy Life" finished 1st out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "A Happy Life" 1st in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes.

One of the series finest episodes.
Twenty years after her mother's death, Catherine re-evaluates her life and her relationship with Vincent. Beautifully written and acted, Linda Hamilton gives an amazing performance as her character sinks deeper into despair as she is slowly torn between two worlds. This is a must-see episode for anyone who has watched (or is even familiar with) Beauty and the Beast.

Intro episode to a fabulous new version of an old faerytale.
A modern day woman is drawn into a world of fantasy and things that cannot be possible, yet are oh, so very real. Injured and left to die in Central Park, Catherine Chandler is rescued by Vincent, a very unique, gentle being, who brings her to his world, to heal. His world consists of a labyrinth of subterrean tunnels, peopled by those society has either discarded or left to die alone and in poverty. Here, Catherine learns the true meaning of caring, committiment, and love. She also learns that a person's looks are truly 'only skin deep', and it is ones soul which gives an inner beauty and strength which is both lasting and incorruptable. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Mixed Review - 4 stars, but really a 2
I have mixed feelings about this movie. I really thought when I bought it it was just going to be that first episode which started the tv series. I loved that first episode. But what I found was that it was a compilation of several episodes. It flowed smoothly, but I am really not a Linda Hamilton fan. I had only watched the show for Vincent - certainly not for Katherine who I might have liked if the character was played by someone other than Linda. Linda Hamilton played the role too crybaby dramatic and she always got on my nerves even back when I was watching the series. I just wish there was more Vincent in the movie instead of it being mostly her.

One of the most important television series ever produced...
And this is the first episode! Beauty and the Beast, the romatic story of a beast who loves in the tunnels beneath New York City, is a beautiful combination of Sci-Fi, fantasy, action and romance. The pilot episode is heartfelt and tender. What a great program. This is a show that changed many lives, and still does. See for yourself--do a search on the web. There are more fans now than there were 15 years ago when the show was still on the air!

Vincent rescues Catharine and an epic romance is born
"Beauty and the Beast" was one of the most unusual and most beloved romantic fantasies every shown on network television. In the pilot episode, "Once Upon a Time in New York" (September 25, 1987), Catherine Chandler (Linda Hamilton) was a young attorney who was attacked and left to die in Central Park, only to be rescued by Vincent (Ron Perlman), a powerful but sensitive man-beast with the facial features of a lion. Vincent lived in the caverns and tunnels deep below Manhattan, where he had been raised by Jacob Wells (Roy Dotrice), the man he calls "Father." After nursing Catherine back to health, she returned to the surface world and became an Assistant District Attorney. Like the fairy table Catherine and Vincent fell in love, a result of which was a strong psychic bond: when Catharine was in danger Vincent would sense it and come to her rescue. This pilot episode sets the tone for the series, which is dominated by the marvelous performance of Perlman, who turned Vincent into the most romantic figure on television. The series only aired from 1987 to 1990 and failed to survive the departure of Linda Hamilton from the cast. "Beauty and the Beast" is one of those television series that is not on the air for a long time, but which burns very brightly. Final note: I always thought the name Vincent came from Don MacLean's song, which has the lyric, "But I could have told you Vincnt, this world was never meant for one as beautiful as you." Makes sense, right?

Splendid, heartwarming, suspensful
I was very interested in this show from the very first pilot show. Some shows you just know that it touches your heart and soul forever, and this one did it for me. I remember a time when these shows could take me back to a world that surrounded us in all kinds of emotions. We really need an escape sometimes because the real world is terribly insane right now. Beauty and The Beast gave me a great pleasure in my life and I will never forget it as long as I live!!!

The seasons with Catherine were masterpeices!
I am a huge B&TB fan. Though I know not where to buy any of the videos in stores I am in love with the theme. I have watched them over and over. The show gives me dreams and hopes. When the Diana series started I begin to fade away. I am not to fond of those, but Cat and Vince, Truely a work of HEART!! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Seige
I always enjoyed watching this show and this is one of my favoret eposides. When Vicents thinks he's losing Cathering it seem to tear him up on the inside. I wish this show was availble on DVD!!!!

Beauty & the Beast: Siege
We in England have had this series back in the Eighties but are unable to get VHS tapes over here.
WE can not see them because we use PAL system.
But if they were on DVD we would buy every single Episode ever made as we are AVID fans

Is Catherine Falling for Someone Else?
Vincent goes through considerable emotional agony in this episode as Catherine appears to be falling in love with the handsome, extremely wealthy businessman, Elliot Burch. Meanwhile Vincent tries to assist some old people who are being threatened with violence as they stand in the way of some big real estate development plans. He enlists Catherine's help in defending the old people. While the way in which Catherine's relationship with Elliot Burch is resolved is something of a cop-out, it does not detract much from the power of the ending, which utilizes a Shakespeare sonnet that one could think (if one didn't know better) was written for the series.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "Siege" finished 15th out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "Siege" 18th in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Movie Does Justice to Women
I disagree on many points with the 1 star reviewer of this noble film about women and their valiant contributions as war nurses during WWII.

I believe this movie had strong performances and that it is a significant one in how few movies portray a women's experience and view of war. For this reason, trashing this movie isn't fair. Sure, it isn't a "great" war film and some of the portrayals of Japanese aren't realistic and even laughable. However, I have to say that this movie clearly stated in the beginning it was a fictional account and was created in order to show how valiant many women acted during war. The one star reviewer was unfair in their assessment of this movie as a result. Acting needs to be considered when making such a review and he did not factor that in fairly in their overall rating.

I treasure this movie, especially Kristy McNichol's performance. This movie is between a 3-5 depending on how one chooses to view it. I give it a 5 because of its unique message and content, and because the acting was superb. Anyone who gives it under 3 stars perhaps is more upset at how men are portrayed in this film -- not a typical depiction in a war movie. Men are sometimes humiliated, but really they only humiliate themselves.

Heinous garbage
A pretty much unwatchable smorgasbord of prison camp cliches.

It's clear that someone watched Bridge Over the River Kwai a few dozen times, but managed to do so without learning anything from it. It wouldn't be quite so bad if the abuse of the women POW's by their Japanese captors (while undoubtedly reflecting reality, and probably underplaying it) hadn't been staged in such an exploitative way. Someone has shrewdly cloaked the film in lofty bookends (Susan Sarandon doing dramatized "congressional testimony") and given it an honorable-sounding title, but there's no denying that not far underneath the veneer of disingenuous respectfulness lies a "women-in-prison" movie.

The development of the cardboard characters (Sarandon is the "loyal earth mother" to daughter-figure Kristy McNichol's "sullen rebellious one with a heart of gold") intrudes only as frequently as absolutely necessary to get us as quickly as possible from one rape, beating, or humiliation to the next. (The highlight(?), I guess, being when McNichol and Sarandon are forced by the "evil guard" to repeatedly slap one another across the face -- I'm sure that happened all the time in WWII prison camps.)

Since it was made for TV, we have to get by without the nudity, shower scenes, and lesbian love scene normally found in this sort of adventure; I guess we'll have to wait for the director's cut.

The Japanese are played to caricature as either socially inept, ridiculously "honorable," or insanely and stupidly mean; it's an amalgam of stereotypes.

Both McNichol and Sarandon do the best they can with what they've been given and McNichol, particularly, triumphs repeatedly over the bad dialogue and murky photography; she's worth ten times whatever they paid her.

An awful movie, of interest only to fans of McNichol or Sarandon.

Girlfriend made me watch it.....
I am am glad she did. Not only should "women everywhere" be inspired by the valor the women potray in this movie, but men should be inspired as well. Based on a true story, this movie will truely entertain, and make you realize that not only men fight wars. (Plus it should get a few "good guy" points from your girlfriend!!)

A powerful story of WWII, as seen through the nurses' eyes.
I saw this movie on television years ago, and was so impressed I have been looking for it ever since. Thank goodness for Amazon.com!! :) ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Most Romantic Halloween!
Vincent (without a costume!) crashes a Halloween party. He does so in the hope of meeting the guest-of-honor, a writer named Brigit O'Donnell whose work has meant a great deal to him. Vincent and Brigit hit it off quite well, "escape" the party, and movingly communicate about the things that are very important to them. They do run into Catherine along the way. Some bad folks are after Brigit, and the episode mixes gritty violence with romantic elements. It is a powerful episode, and Brigit O'Donnell is one of the most compelling guest characters the series ever created. There is a beautiful romantic finish between Vincent and Catherine.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "Masques" finished 5th out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "Masques" 6th in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes.

Vincent meets a woman whose book has strengthened him.
On Halloween (Samhain) the one night a year when Vincent can walk "our" world in relative safety, he attends a party, hoping to meet Bridgit O'Donnell, a writer whom he admires. There, Catherine sees him, and follows he and Bridgit when they leave, which sets in motion a chain of events both despairing and enheartening. ... Read more

Reviews (185)

A fine fast-paced, junk food movie
I spent my hard earned cash for a matinee fully expecting to watch a big, loud, dumb, mindless and escapist action packed film filled with gun-fights, fist fights, stuff blowing up, mean Euro-trash villains (in this case a real slimy Gaul), a team made of devoted experts, decent enough acting and a few funny lines as well as a passable performance by the young Mel Gibson-like Colin Farrell and I have to say, my money was well spent.

SWAT has the potential to be the TOP GUN for special police forces. SWAT contains TOP GUN'S romanticized vision of ripped warrior bodies performing great feats of physical skill. Like TOP GUN'S Navy Pilots and their super sonic jets, this super Police force expertly manipulates specific technology to defeat the forces of evil. A warrior's complete and total command over the tools of the trade- guns, cars, clubs and each other makes such films work as effective recruitment tools. Who wouldn't want to be part of such an expert team?

SWAT embraces all the required clichés befitting a proper action/cop picture: the[rear-end] chewing by-the-numbers captain, the hardened veteran (played with the usual strength and charisma by the always excellent Samuel L. Jackson), the roguish rebel, the tough female partner, the shapeshifting turncoat and the family man as sacrificial lamb.

If someone wants a decent action-adventure, no thinking required, entertaining junk food movie that provides temporary satisfaction, SWAT serves the bill.

This movie stinks
Collin Farell can't act for sh....

I saw this movie one a VCD...think god I didn't pay 8 bucks for a ticket for this crap in a box...

What a dumb film...Samual L. Jackson saved it....Movie sucked pretty much.....Horrible casting...Worst then Phone Booth...Acctually Phone was worse then this........they both suck pretty much...

I wish i could give it a -000000/5...

Worst movie I've seen last summer...

Later...

Saw it for the first time on TV last night....Bad Film!
I skipped this one in theater because it looked cheesy and man is it ever. Colin Farrel and Sam Jackson's talents are wasted in this mess of an action movie and the dialogue and realism of SWAT is below-average at very best. Don't even rent this stinker, catch it on cable for free.

Slickly produced mainstream action fluff
Based on the 70's cop drama TV show, S.W.A.T. is pure slickly produced mainstream action fluff of the highest degree. Beginning with a rebellious and disgraced SWAT member (Colin Farrell) who is picked to join a new squad (which includes Michelle Rodriguez, LL Cool J, Brian Van Holt, and Josh Charles) by a fresh out of retirement sergeant (Samuel L. Jackson). Soon afterward, the head of a European drug cartel (Unfaithful's Oliver Martinez) is captured and offers 100 million dollars to whoever breaks him out of prison, and the crew ends up having their hands full when anyone and everyone comes out of the woodwork to claim the bounty. The film looks great and his some great action scenes, and the cast is nicely assembled, but it's an ultimately shallow experience. If you're a mainstream action fan, this is worth a look, but there's better, more character driven action films out there that are more than worth your time.

aight
this movie was very tight. and this movie is also better than you got served. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Looking for this tape
Hello, I'm a new fan of this series and I'm trying to get this episode on tape without spending a fortune. If you can help please leave a message at this site. I will check back. This is a great series, I think they should rerun it!

Vincent and Catherine Attend a Wedding
A friend of the tunnel dwellers is being forced into an arranged marriage with a man she doesn't love, and kept away from the man she does love. For helping her out the tunnel dwellers face the wrath of an organized crime faction from Chinatown. For invading the tunnels the criminals face the wrath of Vincent. Through watching a couple in love battle obstacles to achieve their union, Vincent and Catherine have occasion to ponder the circumstances that keep THEM apart, not least of which at a wedding where they pay a lot more attention to each other than to the bride and groom. "China Moon" finishes strongly with an emotional scene between Vincent and Catherine (not unusual for the series).

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "China Moon" finished 32nd out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "China Moon" 22nd in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes.

Set in Chinatown, this episode involves love and salvation.
This story centers around Lin, the daughter of a Tunnel Helper, when a Tong leader insists she will marry not the man she loves, but his son. When the son is accidently killed, Vincent must defend his world from an invasion of vengeful murderers, men will stop at nothing in their quest to retrieve Lin, one way or the other. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

"I Hate You! I Hate You!"
So says Catherine to Vincent after she falls under the influence of a nefarious voodoo practitioner who has plans for her that definitely seem hazardous to her health. All of this leads to a lively rescue, and eventually, some intensely passionate eye contact between our favorite couple. "Dark Spirit" is certainly watchable enough, but it seems much less substantive than most of the episodes.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "Dark Spirit" finished 42nd out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "Dark Spirit" 36th in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes. ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Acting? Hell, No. Action? Hell, Yeah!
First of all, this movie is not getting five stars for its acting, its plot, its writing or its cinematography. Those basically don't exist. This film is about action, not acting, though some of the cast occasionally slips up and really does act, especially people like William Forsythe and Jerry Orbach, who apparently can't entirely help themselves. "Out For Justice" is a Steven Seagal vanity piece, plain and simple, and doesn't pretend to be anything else. In that sense, it succeeds in its purpose admirably well.

Seagal portrays yet another hero sporting a ponytail to hide his emerging bald spot. His traditional squinty-eyed grimace is used at all appropriate times, namely whenever he's trying to convey emotion, whether it be outrage, anger, sorrow, affection or desire. It's great how the viewer is left constantly guessing as to how poor Steven feels; it's highly doubtful that even he knows, so how can he be expected to show it to others? Acting is not this guy's forte, and it really shows when he's in a scene with real talent like Orbach or Forsythe. Those poor actors just don't know how to roll over and play dead so Steven can really shine. Not to worry, though, because it's in the fight scenes where Seagal gets to flex his muscles---on his body, not his face---and there's nobody who can kick tail quite the way he does.

There's no sense describing the plot, which is as flimsy as wet toilet tissue, but there's plenty of mayhem for those who like their action movies hot, bloody and raw. The film bogs down whenever Steven's character tries to make nice, such as in the scenes where he's chatting with a puppy. Fortunately, such interludes are few and far between, and do little to distract from the main point of this movie, which is to show off Seagal's creative use of expletives, martial arts and found objects like pool cues and meat cleavers. No, this is definitely not a chick flick or an intellectual exercise designed to make the viewer think; what it is, is action, designed for the testosterone crowd. Go into it with very low expectations of it being anything other than an adrenaline rush and you'll be fine. A good movie to watch with beer and chips---just don't look for it to be anything remotely like "Under Siege" and there'll be little disappointment.

a power house. pure adrenaline.
FIRST HE WAS ABOVE THE LAW. THEN HE WAS HARD TO KILL. THEN HE WAS MARKED FOR DEATH. NOW STEVEN SEAGAL IS OUT FOR JUSTICE. HE IS A COP. IT'S A DIRTY JOB. BUT SOMEBODY HAS GOT TO TAKE OUT THE GARBAGE. AND STEVE DOES. HE HAS TO TRY TO STOP A MADMAN WILLIAM FORSYTHE BEFORE IT IS TO LATE. VERY GOOD ACTION SCENES AND SEAGALS MOST GRAPHIC MOVIE. RATED R FOR STRONG VIOLENCE,STRONG LANGUAGE,AND BRIEF NUDITY.

ANOTHER ONE OF SEAGAL'S FILMS FROM THE GOOD OL DAYS
A BROOKLYN COP [SEAGAL] GOES AFTER THE MURDERER OF HIS PARTNER. HAS PLENTY OF GOOD ACTION TO SPARE AND IT HAS A VERY GOOD VILLAIN, WHO'S PLAYED BY WILLIAM FORSYTHE. THIS IS ANOTHER REMINDER OF HOW GOOD STEVEN SEAGAL'S MOVIES REALLY WERE BACK IN THE EARLIER DAYS OF HIS CAREER. SEAGAL FANS SHOULD DEFINITELY TRY TO GO OUT AND BUY THIS ONE. THIS IS REALLY WORTH OWNING.

Gino on a mission!!
This movie is definately action packed with it's share of violence. Steven Seagal is wonderful as a "Brooklin born" cop willing to go the extra mile to catch a killer. This movie is well written because it shows the viewers that even policemen have difficult jobs going after bad criminals, even if it is a friend. I thought that this movie was one of Steven Seagal's best!I would encourage any fan of his to definately add it to your collection!

That's for Bobby!
I find it appropriate to review this, one of Seagal's best films and a classic in the genre. His career now a shell of its former self, Seagal proves with 'OFJ' that he used to deliver the goods.

I used to think there wasn't much to making a good Seagal film. How hard can it be? But his recent efforts, which have gone straight to DVD, prove that some talent is required to make a satisfying rogue-cop-on-a-mission flick.

Seagal plays Brooklyn cop Gino Felino (I'm not kidding) whose partner is blown away on the streets (18th Avenue, we're told over and over) by the crack-smoking lunatic Richie, played with aplomb by William Forsythe. Using his acute knowledge of 'the neighborhood', Gino sets off on revenge, killing several dozen people before the suitably ultraviolent finale.

The film has many things going for it. Firstly, Seagal attempts a Brooklyn accent and an overall Brookln persona which is priceless to watch. Second, the violence is top notch. It starts off strong with a pimp being put through a windshield after insulting Gino's Italian-American heritage. The violence then escalates as Gino uses tried-and-true methods of interrogation such as the old cue-ball in the bar towel, shots to the family jewels, the snapping of wrists, and good old fashioned Smith and Wesson. Thirdly, William Forsythe is amazing as Richie, proving that he will throw himself into a role totally and completely. His fat man waddle, crazy crooked mustache, and berserker behavior make him a great villain. Think about it--Seagal versus a fat character actor doesn't sound like much, right? But Forsythe is game and makes the film fun to watch.

What else? The film is totally foul-mouthed, full of off color humor and a message that is morally dubious at best.

OFJ also has a crop of familiar faces. Jerry Orbach, plays ::gasp:: a cop. Gina Gershon appears as Richie's sister. John Leguizamo appears in a two second bit during a cheesy montage sequence. Julianna Margulies plays one of Richie's hook-ups. B-movie babe Shannon Whirry appears in a revealing outfit.

Highly recommended to the action fan. Required viewing if you hail from Brooklyn. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Master of the Unknown!!!!!!!!
Two begins from another dimension; two sorcerers with immeasurable powers. One has sworn to destroy the Earth; the other has vowed to protect it. Their timeless battle has crossed over from the fourth dimension and only one man will reign in the end...
Doctor Mordrid (JEFFREY COMBS) is the chosen guardian who can protect the Earth from eternal darkness; Kabal (BRIAN THOMPSON) is his vengeful enemy whose implacable wrath has escalated with time. Kabal has arrived on Earth and is planning to use his infinite powers to unleash a horde of hellish demons to devour and destroy humankind.
Bound by hate and a mystical amulet that holds the powers of life and death, the immortal wizards will meet for the last time. Their centuries-old rivalry has matured into the ancient struggle of good versus evil. Now, their battle takes on majestic proportions as Mordrid and Kabal give life to prehistoric skeletons and begin their final conflict...

A pleasant, goofy little movie
This is a movie, not a book. Doctor Anton Mordrid is a wizard protecting Earth while moonlighting as an apartment building owner and lecturer on the Occult. Jeffrey Combs plays Mordrid with obvious enthusiam. Combs is a terrific actor who deserves some mainstream success. He can currently be seen on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as Weyoun. This film has good acting, a female lead who is NOT a mindless bimbo, only one scene with nudity, and decent special effects. Give it try. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Born to Run review
If you're a race fan this is the movie to have. Forget about those hi-strung imports, this one is All American muscle. I have watched it over and over, it never gets old. My blood pumps a little faster every time I see it.

racing galore
filled with cool racing scenes and Grieco's wanna be James Dean attitude. though I think Grieco ripped off Dean's red jacket. some scenes are lame as hell. the lead actress is hot(fogot her name) but she is hot hot hot. Born To Run is for the dragracing fans and fans of the cars and the ladies, yeah. fun for a while. the ending is good to.

If you like car racing : yes; otherwise: no
This is a very polished high gloss movie with Richard Grieco as a racer kid. The storyline to me was quite boring. Maybe you like it more if you are into car racing. Grieco still has one of his better appearances in this one.

A very good movie for people who like hotrods?
This movie was action pack and keep me on edge of my seat! I wish they would make a sequel to it? So people would know if they built another beautiful car? This movie was excellent a must see movie?

wog the mennie
i love this movie..i thought it was a great popcorn flick. we pick up some hotdogs form the vendor and raced right home to watch this movie. i think there are too many referneces to satan and the power of politications in this moive. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Catherine wonders if Vincent is "the bad guy"
A vigilante reported to have beast-like features is on the prowl in New York's subway trains. Catherine has suspicions the vigilante may be Vincent. There is some interesting interaction between Vincent and Catherine very early in their relationship, as Catherine doesn't seem to be fully comfortable with him (this was the 2nd episode to be broadcast). The "villain" in this episode is a little more complex and interesting than most.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "Terrible Savior" finished 40th out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "Terrible Savior" 35th in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Melancholy Remembrance of Things Past
Catherine is introduced to a new hire at the District Attorney's Office. One evening she sees him go to the tunnel entrance in Central Park. It turns out that the man (named Devin) was Vincent's closest boyhood friend. He has returned after a decades-long absence from the tunnels. Making extensive use of flashbacks, this well-crafted episode gradually reveals to us details of Vincent's relationship with Devin, and details behind friction between Devin and Father. We learn of childhood dreams, never realized. The final shot, a flashback moment involving Vincent and Devin, is quite moving.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "Promises of Someday" finished 11th out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "Promises of Someday" 20th in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Father, Looking for a Lost Love, is Charged with Murder
Father receives a message from Above, and tells Vincent he must venture there briefly. The message has led Father to believe that the love of his life, a woman named Margaret with whom he hasn't communicated in decades, is looking for him. When Father doesn't soon return to the tunnels, Vincent enlists Catherine's aid in finding him. Catherine finds that Father is in jail and charged with murder. Father, in seeking out the source of the message he received, has inadvertently managed to FRAME HIMSELF for the murder of Margaret's lawyer. Catherine goes to great lengths to clear him of the charges and help bring about a bittersweet reunion between Father and Margaret. The episode achieves some emotional power, with regretful thoughts over lost opportunity. Vincent and Catherine, witnessing this, must wonder if THEIR opportunity will be lost.

In 1998 I conducted a poll among Beauty and the Beast fans asking them to rate the 44 episodes of the first two seasons on a 1-to-10 scale. 31 fans participated. "Song of Orpheus" finished 16th out of the 44 episodes.

I placed "Song of Orpheus" 19th in my own personal 1-through-44 rank-ordering of the episodes. ... Read more