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Despite an irritating, tacked-on voice-over narration that somebody must have thought was necessary to make sense of the story (it wasn't), Last of the Dogmen is actually a very moving and magical film. Tom Berenger plays a Montana bounty hunter who helps an anthropologist (Barbara Hershey) search for the descendants of a Cheyenne tribe who disappeared in the 1870s. What the two find in a remote mountain stretch is an entire community of Cheyenne who have kept themselves cut off from the modern world. A Dances with Wolves parallel emerges as the white outsiders gradually fit in, but Last of the Dogmen stands up just fine without comparison to any other films. As in Kevin Costner's Oscar-winning movie, however, there are ways in which this film captures a similar sense of yearning, mystery, and loss. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (68)

I loved this movie!
This movie just sort of snuck up on me. I was having a bad day, and it was on TV, so I thought I'd give it a chance. And it turned out to be *just* the thing to pick me up from my doldrums.

A very, VERY sweet movie that is interesting, gripping, has some mystery, romance, and is fine for the whole family. Highly recommended.

Beautiful scenery (I always love beautiful scenery) and two wonderful main characters. Tom Berenger is a grumpy, reclusive and rather shy tracker who get sucked into a very unusual quest -- to find a lost Native American Tribe. He is wonderful in his roll -- he does "grumpy but lovable" better than most other actors I can think of.

Barbara Hershey is fantastic too. Beautiful, brainy, capable, dedicated and a perfect compliment to Berenger's character. I really admired her in this film.

I won't reveal too much of the plot here, but it is a delightful film, and I highly recommend it. Maybe a little on the longish side, but I wouldn't have it any other way. One of my favorite movies to date.

MAGICAL MOVIE
I don't usually watch westerns but when my father told me about this movie, and I saw the awe that filled his eyes, I knew I had to watch it. I did and I was enchanted by everything about it. I loved the performances of Tom Berenger as the tormented Lewis Gates, Barbara Hershey as the bookish anthropologist Lillian and especially, Zip, the scrappy little bob-tailed dog that had so much personality! I also enjoyed Wilford Brimley's narration throughout the movie - it was entirely believable because he is so down to earth. The story is slightly implausible, bordering on fantasy - a bounty hunter and an anthropologist find a "lost" tribe of Cheyenne Indians living in an incredibly remote area of Montana. But the movie is so well done you find yourself wishing it were true. The actors who potrayed members of the lost tribe - especially the man who played Lone Wolf - were extremely authentic without being caricatures or stereotpyes. And the music - this movie wouldn't be as good without that marvelous music. And last but not least, the scenery. The mountains, the rivers where the escaped convicts and later Lewis run for fresh water - made me wonder if such a place really exists. This is a must-have movie best viewed when you are in need of hope and a reason to feel good about the world. And sometimes I wonder if Lillian and Lewis "lived happily ever after" with that lost tribe. I sure hope so!

Excellent
I had purchased the VHS of this movie on a whim, thinking my husband would like it. He likes anything "Western". I found myself totally absorbed in this movie. The theme was different than I expected, but I was not disappointed. I would recommend viewing this movie to anyone with an interest in the West and its history. Tom Berenger is one of my favority actors, anyway.

Modern Day Western With A Century Old Feel
This review refers to the HBO DVD edition of "Last Of The Dogmen"...

"Last of the Dogmen" is a beautiful story that takes my breath away everytime I watch it. It's one of those films that even if you start out viewing it alone, pretty soon, you'll find the rest of the family gathered around simply because one glimpse of the scenery,one paragraph of the dialouge,one look at the story and it's got a hold on you.

It's a modern Western, with all the romantic adventure of one that may take place 100 years ago. Lewis Gates(Tom Berenger) is a bounty hunter hired to track three deadly criminals who have escaped deep into the "Oxbow" of the Montana wilderness. As he follows their trail, he begins to uncover a 100 year old mystery. One of the clues is an arrow that could only have been used by a tribe of Cheyennes that existed over a century ago.
He can't let go of what the possibilities may be and convinces the beautiful Dr Lillian Sloan(Barbara Hershey), expert in Native American culture, that there may be something incredible out there. Their search begins as they try to uncover the past, and what they find is a way of life too beautiful to be spoiled by modern day man and it is up to them to save it!

It's just an incredibly beautiful film that interweaves the search for the past with Gates' own ghosts from his past. The friendships formed,the evolving romance, the cinematogrpahy, the musical score, and the heartwarming story all combined for a wonderful film.
Even "Zip" the dog(played by "Zip"), will be tugging at your heart.Berenger and Hershey worked beautifully together, and Steve Reevis and other American Indian actors were not only wonderful but lent a great deal of realism and authenticity to the film...Bravo!

The DVD presents a wonderful widescreen picture, taking in all the majesty of the Rockies. The DD5.1 is very good. The sounds of nature and the modern day sounds of helicopters and such, are quite a contrast to behold in surround sound.The DVD also has some nice features. It may be viewed with the sound in either the Theatrical version, or the Director version. Both are in DD5.1, and the main difference I found was that the Theatrical version has the captivating narration by Wilfred Brimley,and the Director's version does not. There is the option of Director(Tab Murphy) commentary, and it also provides subtitles in English, French and Spanish for those needing them.There are other features that include, cast bios and costume sketches as well.

If you liked "Dances With Wolves", give this one a try. I can not say enough good things about it. If you have already seen it, you will enjoy it again on this DVD. It's for Western lovers, adventure lovers, romance lovers and anyone who just wants to get lost in a good story for a couple of hours.It is rated PG(there is some violence and mild langauge)

Happy trails and enjoy.....Laurie

A neglected gem of a movie
When this movie was released in 1995 alongside other competition, it flopped due in part to it's main idea, a movie about Indians. But it was never given a fair shot and by this review I hope to change that. The basic plot of the movie is very simple but very interesting. What if there was a lost pocket of Cheyenne in the wilderness of the Northwest? This question brings together two very well developed characters, Tom Berenger as a lonely tracker/bounty hunter with his sidekick dog Skip, and Barabara Hershey, a professor of Native American history. A relationship builds between the two and they are taken in by the native Americans. But, they leave a trail, and are followed by the local sheriff who hates Gates (Berenger's character) and would love to see him in the slammer. A lot of effort and thought was put into this movie, making it not only epic and romantic but also thought provoking and insightful into what we can and should do for the Native Americans. The question I mentioned above is asked later in the film, answered and ends with one of the most spectacular conclusions rivaling that of the Shawshank Redemption. The musical score by David Arnold who has worked on many films including the most recent James Bond movies, is very sweeping and majestic with a lot of romance. I loved this film and I would recommend it to pretty much anyone. ... Read more

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A heartwarming story of mistaken identity and idealism, director Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters) takes on the political establishment in this fresh, funny comedy. Kevin Kline (Sophie's Choice, A Fish Called Wanda) plays Dave Kovic, a sweet man with a big heart running an employment agency. Dave happens to be a dead ringer for the current president of the United States, and he hires himself out as an impersonator for parties and mall openings. When the real president has a stroke while in bed with an aide, his ambitious chief of staff (Frank Langella) decides to hold onto the White House by appealing to Dave's sense of patriotism and having him pose as the president. Soon, however, Dave is running the country in a way contrary to what the chief of staff would like, even as he finds himself falling in love with the unsuspecting first lady (Sigourney Weaver). The movie's unbridled optimism is its best asset, and it makes this a pleasant comedy worth seeing. --Robert Lane ... Read more

Reviews (55)

A Presidential Comedy!
Dave Kovic runs a job placement agency. On the side, he does Presidential Impersonations since he bares a strong resemblance to President Mitchell. But when Mitchell suffers a life-threatening stroke, Dave is asked to step in to temporarily fill his shoes. After testing the waters, Dave begins to enjoy the job and eventually tries to get something done...

DAVE is a sturdy comedy that gets a lot of mileage out of Washington DC. Kevin Kline is just perfect as the everyman Dave and even better as President Dave. When he throws out the first pitch at a professional game, the reaction is happy and real. He becomes the President we would like to see, one that puts the country above all else. That's something I've never seen in my lifetime. Sigourney Weaver is the hard-edged First Lady who Dave is soon allied. Charles Grodin is very funny in a supporting role as a DC accountant with a fear of the government. Frank Langella is the villainous Bob Alexander, puppet master for the 'acting' President. He sneers here as much as he did in DRACULA. But, much of the fun in Dave comes from the many Washington insider cameos. These, in addition to appearances by Larry King, Jay Leno, Leon Harris and Oliver Stone make the story seem feasible. (And for once, Oliver Stone's conspiracy just might be right...)

Ivan Reitman handles this comedy masterfully and the story is filled with heart and a couple nice twists. The DVD has a pretty good video transfer and a standard audio transfer. But, this was an early DVD release so it offers little extra (There is a mightily short making of doc). Dave itself is a fun film that might ironically restore some trust in our government.

Whimsy & Intrigue in the White House
This movie is one of those gems that quietly grows on you -- each viewing creating anticipation and appreciation for its wit and style. The casting is superb. Kevin Kline doesn't know how to give a bad performance. Frank Langella's brilliant characterization of the ambitious, power-hungry 'man behind the throne' is perfect, and a wonderful contrast to his long-ago role as the cad/seducer in Diary of a Mad Housewife.

This is definitely a movie to buy because it needs to be seen many times. The innumerable funny pearls in this movie alone are worth the price of the DVD. For Minnesotans, one of the slyest gags was Dave's gig early in the moview, imitating the President at the grand opening of Durenberger Motors in his home town. The movie was released around the time that David Durenberger (Minnesota's senior senator) was embroiled in an ethics scandal. A personal favorite moment was the scene where Dave (with the help of his accountant buddy played by Charles Grodin) pares the federal budget to save a homeless shelter for children -- the cabinet members bemusedly participating just like a family sitting around the kitchen table wrestling with its own budget. Priceless.

GOOD DEMOCRATS, BAD REPUBLICANS, SAME OLD STORY
The film "Dave" went through a script change. The story of a Presidential look-alike (Kevin Kline) who fills in for the secretly deceased real thing, the original story featured a Republican who brought his skills as a small entrepreneur to the job. Hollywood turned him into a Democrat, but kept his G.O.P common sense, such as when he and his partner look at the Federal budget and balance it by using the methods any small businessman would use. Naturally, pet liberal projects are all interjected while "Republican priorities" are given the heave-ho. You can search far and wide, and you will not find Hollywood films that openly portray a Democrat as the bad guy. I wrote a screenplay a few years ago called "A Murderous Campaign". It had all the elements of a great script. A beautiful porn star has an affair with a Democrat Louisiana Senator. She overhears him plotting the assassination of a political rival, but they find out she heard the plan. They try to kill her, so she goes into hiding and hooks up with a crusty old Washington reporter who is considered kooky because he has been accusing this Democrat of these crimes for years. A retired FBI friend of the reporter helps them. The Democrat announces a Presidential bid. The porn star uses her considerable charms and discovers that the Governor of New Jersey is the assassination target at a Statue of Liberty rally. She saves the Governor, and the plot is revealed, but the Democrat candidate goes into spin control. Nobody can really prove the plan. It looks like he will win the nomination, having weathered the politics of personal destruction. Finally, the porn girl and the reporter find the old father of the Democrat's chief of staff, a former Ku Klux Klansman who wants to get what he knows off his chest before passing from this mortal coil. He tells them about the drug smuggling operation the candidate has been running in the Louisiana Bayou. The reporter's FBI pal arranges a raid. They discover all the "smoking gun" evidence of a series of political murders going back years. The girl is re-united with her family, gets out of the porn business, the reporter wins the Pulitzer, and it is jail time for the Democrat. The end.
Creative execs who loved the verbal pitch when I simply described the Democrat as a "politician," a "candidate" or the "Senator" all passed when they read the part in the script that identifies him as an actual Democrat. Pamela Anderson would be perfect as the porn chick. I could see Denzel Washington as the reporter, and Gary Busey as the Democrat Senator. I was asked if I would change him to a Republican. My answer was that I wanted to maintain the realism of the story. See ya.

STEVEN TRAVERS
AUTHOR OF "BARRY BONDS: BASEBALL'S SUPERMAN"
STWRITES@AOL.COM

Light romantic comedy.
President Bill Mitchell is not exactly an ideal President. He looks after those who helped get him into office than the people and he is a philanderer. One of the ways that he keeps his amorous play a secret is to hire a lookalike to impersonate him. Now the man whom they have hired is Dave Kovic (Kevin Kline), a goodhearted man who likes to help people find jobs. After making his little exit, the real President suffers a stroke and is completely incapacitated. The corrupt and manipulative Chief of Staff, Bob Alexander, plans to use Dave to elevate himself to the White House. Unfortunately, he doesn't count on Dave enjoying himself in office, using his luck to make the country a better place and falling in love with the beautiful First Lady.

A fun Political Drama/Comedy!
DAVE is a great movie. It's fun to watch and is family friendly. At the same time, though, it has plenty of political jargon and Oval Office scenes to keep the political drama lover happy. DAVE follows a man who could pass as a twin of the President. He is recruited as a double for the Prez. for public appearances, but quite unexpectedly, gets a big promotion! Definately see this one. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Classic Paul Hogan Movie
As far as I am concerned this is a classic film that ranks up there with It's a Wonderful Life. It has it's sad moments but is for the most part upbeat and funny. It is Paul Hogan at his best. I just wish they would put it out on DVD. If you are a Paul Hogan fan you can't help but love this film.

Paul Hogan tries to play someone other than Mick Dundee
In 1986 Paul Hogan moved from being the spokesman for Australian tourism on the small screen to the surprise star of the surprise hit theatrical film, "Crocodile Dundee." Two years later he made "Crocodile Dundee II," and two years after that he made this comedy and married his constant co-star Linda Kozlowski. "Almost an Angel" is a better film than "Crocodile Dundee II," and certainly the most intimate of Hogan's first three films.

This time around he plays Terry Dean, an expert on security systems who was so good his criminal endeavors were easily recognizable who also took a turn at some creative attempts at bank robbery. The real story begins when Terry gets out of prison and becomes convinced that he has not only died but has been sent back to Earth by a heavenly being (who sure sounds and looks like Charlton Heston) with a chance to redeem himself. Since Hogan clearly believes this is what is going along, there is no reason for us not to go along for the ride.

Terry meets up with Steve (Elias Koteas), a guy in a wheelchair and the next thing we know he is being taken home, meeting Steve's sister Rose (Kozlowski), and helping out at the center for the neighborhood kids. The formula is fairly obvious, but the point is not whether Terry is going to find his redemption but how he is going to pull it off. Ultimately the film's message (yes, there actually is one) is relatively simple: Terry succeeds because he has complete faith in himself. It does not matter that his faith is without a true foundation, because Terry is too busy moving mountains to notice his grand delusion is built on shifting sand.

Once again, Hogan's performance redeems a lot of the faults with the movie in which he is appearing. Since Hogan writes his own scripts he has the advantage of knowing exactly what works for his screen persona. Terry Dean is not as whimsical as Mick Dundee, but Hogan was clearly smart enough to try and get beyond that character. He was also smart to make a more intimate sort of movie, where the situation is what is out there more than the character. Hogan also knows how to set up his gags pretty well. "Almost an Angel" only made a fraction of the money by either of the "Crocodile Dundee" films, but it is arguably a better made movie.

Fine Comedy film with Fantasy.
A Professional Thief (Paul Hogan) dies in a Accident, he`s has been resurrected as a Probational Angel in Heaven, who has to help people are in Down Spirits and Disbelieve in God, in the search of Redemption.

This Charming Downbeat Comedy has fine performances by Hogan, Elias Koteas and Linda Kozlowski. Directed by John Cornell (Crocodile Dundee 2) has made himself a fine film here. Charlton Heston has a Cameo here as God. This film is a Geniune Well Made Movie. Super 35. Grade:B+.

This is a pretty Morbid topic for a film.
1990 was the year of the Ghost Films. Ghost, Always, and Flatliners. Very Morbid subjects for films with no plot and very bad acting. It's a shame Paul Hogan tried this with this film, playing a man who thinks He's an angel after a near death encounter. Charlton Heston's small part does not do anything for this film, except make you not want to see it again ever.

I like this movie.
Good movie to see if you are a Paul Hogan or Linda Kozlowski
fan. It is also one of those movies a viewer should see
twice, because the first time you don't know what is really
going on. Don't miss the ending, all is explained. I give it
four stars - not one of the best movies around, but one of my
own personal favorites. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A wonderful movie... 5 stars for sure
When I first saw this movie late at night a few summers ago on the Disney Channel, I loved it. Since then, it seems to get better everytime I watch it. I have recently gotten a dachshund, and we watch the movie together. My family loves it, and I would recommend it to anyone with a taste for good, quality, family entertainment. 5 STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great For The Whole Family
This movie was so funny it was about a big dog that hung around with Daschounds which are small dogs and they were so much smaller then him they would break things and get the big dog in trouble he he wanted to hang around with them so he would low crawl it is such a great movie if you have not seen it oh you are missing out you need to see it its wonderful

One Of Disney's Finest "Little Known" Efforts.
Released in the mid '60s, "The Ugly Dachshund" tells the story of Mark Garrison (portrayed by the very talented and likeable Dean Jones) and his wife, Fran (portrayed by the equally talented and likeable Suzanne Pleshette), and their pet dachshund, Danka.
One day, Mark arrives at the family vet's clinic to pick up Danka and her 3 newborn pups. Before leaving with the pups, the doctor is able to talk Mark into taking home a great dane pup as well. This really makes Mark's day since he has never really cared much for dachshunds, but has instead always longed for a great big "man's" dog. From there on out, it's war in the Garrison household as the great dane, Brutus, grows up and becomes the "scape goat" for a lot of bad behavior brought about by the 3 new dachshunds.
Poor Brutus, it seems as though he will never be completely accepted in a home that only has room for dachshunds.
However, in the end, after numerous misadventures and a few arguments with Mark, Fran is finally won over by the loyal Brutus' endearing warmth and charm.
It's a shame that virtually no one has ever heard of or seen this completely wonderful little "lost" Disney classic. "The Ugly Dachshund" is, in my opinion, and certainly most everyones' who has seen it, not only one of Disney's greatest films, but one of the best movies ever released...period.
If you loved "Lady and the Tramp", "101 Dalmatians" and "Old Yeller", you simply must see ... "The Ugly Dachshund"!!

A charming, entertaining flick!
Any dog-lover should love this movie about a man(Dean Jones) who longs for a manly dog while suffering with his wife's dachsund. When his wife's dog gives birth to a litter of dachsund pups, he slips in a Great Dane puppy to remedy the problem. The pup grows up thinking he too is a Dachsund, uncontrollable and unaware of his tremendous size and strength! This all proves difficult for Dean Jones to deal with when it comes to convincing his wife that Brutus, the Great Dane, is not out of control, and can even win the local dogshow! This is another wonderful Disney offering from the 60's, one of those lesser known Disney films that is worthy of a much larger audience! It's full of great comedy with a truly charming cast and set in a suburban community that one can really relate too!

Fun for the whole Family....including the dog
In a wonderfully charming way the life of the Garrison's is turned upside down by the arrival of three dachshund pups and a fourth 'blind passenger' who quickly outgrows the dachsies and turns out to be a Great Dane. Mrs. Garrison is convinced that there is no place for a Great Dane in a dachsie household and she urges Mr. Garrison to return the dog to the local vet, he reluctantly agrees but changes his mind when 'Brutus' proves to be an excellent watch dog as he chases a nightpatrol police officer up a tree mistaking him for a burglar. The three dachsie pups an their mother Danka create much havoc around the house and yet always manage to flee the scene at the last minute appearing like little angels and blaming the disasters on Brutus. As the yearly dogshow approaches Mrs. Garrison is on pins and needles training her showdog Chloe when Mr. Garrison decides to secretly enter the show with Brutus......

This movie is full of good whole-hearted fun and laughter. An absolute must for every dog lover. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great romantic comedy.
This was a fun James Garner at his romantic comedy best. I rank it #2 in that category. Natalie Wood is great oposite Garner. This is a comedy that uses some slapstick and mis-direction and coincidence to create the friction that make it fun.

I still prefer the Wheeler Dealers for sheer fun, but overall CC is a better movie, with a more interesting plot and co-star.

A Wonderful Classic
What is it about 1959? They made some great films including "The Miracle" my personal favorite of ALL times.But take a nice simple story, add some toe-tapping music, mix in brillant actors like Garner and Wood and you have the makings of a wonderful, memorialbe, teary-eyed classic film that will give you a smile on your face.The unfortunate thing is the likes of this will never be duplicated. Hollywood of today has lost all sense of real entertainment. BUY this one folks,,,,you won't be sorry. I just wish it would come out in DVD.

One of My All Time Favorites
Sitting in Washinton D.C. a week after the worst terrorist attacks in US history, this was the movie I wanted to see. Perhaps because it was a simpler time back then -- in my life and in the movie -- or because I have so many fond memories of Miss Wood, or maybe because I just needed a good cry.

The story is bittersweet, but there is a happy ending. The businessmen have hearts, and the mid-century architecture (McCall's penthouse) and Miss Wood's wardrobe are just superb.

Pretty Woman can't hold a candle to this one.

Before The Wheeler Dealers before Pretty Woman
Based on a book "Cash McCall ISBN: 0736605738" the plot is too close to reality. Much of it was reused again in "Pretty Woman ASIN: 0788821075." A tycoon James Garner learns that creation is more fun than destruction. However it take a beautiful woman (Natalie Wood) to help point him in the right direction.

This was an O.K. movie and a first for some things but it was not funny or inspiring or suspenseful or...

THEY DON¿T MAKE EM LIKE THIS ANYMORE
When Natalie Wood was in her prime, she was at the top of the biz, stunningly beautiful, sharp, but accessible. And no one played the all-american stud better than Jim Garner.

Call it a bedroom farce if you like but Cash McCall combines a lot of wheeling and dealing with a good old fashioned boy-meets-girl to make a very pleasing movie.

At first glance, McCall (Garner) is part playboy, part ruthless businessman, but we know better; that his heart of gold belongs only to Lory Austen (Wood), a woman he met last Summer, and he's thought of nothing but her since.

Standard fare, well done with attractive stars, that alone puts it in the upper 20% as far as I'm concerned. Enjoy it. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

And we'll have a real good time!
I've seen countless versions of Gypsy from movie to stage and have never been disappointed in any of them. For the film version Rosalind Russell, one of my all time favorite actresses shines bright as Mamma Rose. Critics tore her apart but they are nothing but want-to-be actors anyway. I know enough about theatre to see that Rosalind had everything it took for this part and next to Angela she is my next choice.For Louise, Natalie Wood also shines and has given this role all the class of a great Broadway performance. She's beautiful and next to West Side Story the role of Gypsy (Louise) is what i'll always remember her for.The movie production itself isn't bad. I would have liked it more if they stayed closer to the stage version but considering Hollywood they did do a wonderful job. The Stereo 5.1 Sound is breathtaking, the colors are sharp and the extras are very much appreciated but don't know why they just didn't edit them into this production.You won't be disappointed, you'll enjoy all the wonderful songs, wonderful production numbers and see really fine actors of yesterday at their very best. "And you'll have a very good time."

3 Stars for the DVD
I really was looking forward to this DVD. I had only seen this film on TV or pan-and-scan video and thought it missing something. I previewed my new version by checking out the opening and a couple of the bigger numbers and thought it seemed pretty good. Now, unfortunately, I have been only been able to get through about an hour of the movie in two sittings. I have always liked Rosalind Russell and Natalie Wood, and Karl Malden. But, I'm sorry, the musical numbers are flat out -- flat! No oomph, no guts -- I guess I'm just too familiar with the original cast recording which I have been listening to since it was first released on LP, and although I saw the less-than-musically talented Tyne Daly onstage in the role, at least the production sparkled and kept moving. I give the three stars for the DVD because it is an extremely good transfer. The wide screen looks great and the sound is not bad at all, but, again, it just doesn't make it. As Auntie Mame, Ros Russell is out of this world, but as Mama Rose, she seems more like Hyacinth in "Keeping Up Appearances" -- just goes rolling right along not even realizing anyone else is around. Maybe that's the way she and/or the director thought she should be. Oh, well!

You gotta get "Gypsy" if you wanna get ahead!
Buy this wonderful DVD issue of the 1962 "Gypsy" NOW! Fantastic color, film quality, sound...it's like seeing it for the first time. Wonderful stars and music. The two numbers "You Gotta Get a Gimmick" and "Let Me Entertain You" alone are worth the price. When Natalie takes those long legs to the runway, circling the stage performing the latter - whew - TOO hot to handle! "That's how burlesque was born!"

Gypsy -- A Disappointing Pleasure
As a longtime fan of the musical "Gypsy", inspired by the memoirs of the infamous stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, I was ecstatic to come across a copy of the 1962 movie version on DVD. Though the acting was superb and charming, the one of the key words in a movie-musical is "musical", which this movie certainly wasn't.

First off: hats off to Rosalind Russell, an excellent Mama Rose. Miss Russell portrays Rose as the ruthless but lovable dominating stage mother that she is. She gives an marvelous performance as Rose. Though there is controversy on whether her vocals were dubbed by another performer (a rumor which Russell vehemently denied until her death), who really cares? Even if it isn't her singing, you can clearly see her put in emotion into whatever song she is belting(or lip-synching).

Karl Malden, as the bumbling Herbie, Rose's boyfriend and manager for her two daughters, Louise and June, gives his all. He is extremely believable in his role, as well as comfortable. Though unfortunately most of his singing scenes were cut for the final movie, they can still be seen in two additional bonus tracks that were cut from the final product. His talents as a vocalist are clearly displayed, along with his happy-go-lucky stage presence.

The last true musical charmer in this movie is that of the character of Tulsa, who gave a charming and whimsical performance in the song and dance splendor of "All I Need Is The Girl". I became a true fan of this number after seeing him flit across the screen.

Though these few people bring a great musical quality to this movie, not much can be said for the others in it. Natalie Wood, who plays Louise, the awkward teenager who ends up becoming the stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, definitely made her evolution believable. Though her acting was fantastic, I can't say the same for her singing abilities. Let's just say that I finally realized why someone dubbed her vocals for "West Side Story". "Gotta Get a Gimmick", possibly one of the best showstoppers I've seen on stage (about three strippers that give Louise tips on how to become a stripper), was pathetic on screen. There was more shouting than singing, and I kept counting the seconds until the end of the number so I could pretend it never happened. June was somewhat talented as a singer, but didn't give much of a performance.

Though most of the acting was splendid, the music was not. I have to give this one a 3 for the movie overall, but a 4 for the acting.

Everything's Coming Up Rose!
I loved this version of "Gypsy." I was a part of a school production of the musical, so I decided to see what the movie version was like. There are several differences, but this movie has the same flare that the stage production does. The DVD has the two songs that are missing from the movie (they are located in the bonus features area) which I enjoyed very much. I only wish that they had been in the movie in the first place!

Rosalind Russell is WONDERFUL as Rose, a mother who wants to make her children, mainly her youngest, June, a star. She travels, along with her other daughter Louise (played by the wonderful Natalie Wood) and Herbie (Carl Malden). All three characters gave great performances. I always get a lump in the back of my throat when Herbie leaves Rose after she refuses to set a date for their marriage and tries to make Louise the star.

After Louise discovers that she is very successful in her new profession--stripping, she changes her name to Gypsy Rose Lee and leaves her mother behind. Rose then goes on to sing the greatest song of the movie, 'Rose's Turn.' Rosalind Russell does a great job with the song, even if her voice is a little scratchy. Her acting was superb. I have always loved the ending (which I will not give away for those who have yet to see the movie). If you're a musical fan, rent this movie. You will not be disappointed! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Director Sam Fuller's biggest success of its time (and, superficially at least, his most conventional film) is the 1953 noir effort Pickup on South Street. Candy (Jean Peters) has her purse picked on the subway by small-time thief and ex-con Skip (Richard Widmark), neither of them realizing that the purse contains microfilm bound for Communist spies and that they are being watched the whole time by Federal agents. The New York police and the Feds catch up with Skip and try to cajole him into turning over the microfilm, but as he's one of Fuller's "outsider" antihero protagonists, the patriotic angle cuts no ice with him. He plays both sides against the middle when he finds out that the Communists are involved, hoping to make a big score off the deal, but eventually he comes around when he realizes that he's smitten with Candy. Finally Skip plays ball with the authorities, but is it out of his love for both his friend Moe and Candy, or is he swayed by the patriotic urgings of the FBI, or does it just come from some inner core of decency? You decide. When Skip is asked, "Do you know what treason is?" he smirks, "Who cares?"; when the Feds try to appeal to his patriotism, he sneers through several layers of Sinatra cool, "Are you waving the flag at me?" Pickup is set almost entirely in the garbage-strewn alleys, grimy subways, seedy waterfront dives, and gloomy streets of New York City; it's marked by extremely lengthy takes and fluid, mobile camera work. The closing scene when Skip tracks down another character in the subway and administers a brutal beating to him is one of the more violent scenes you'll find in '50s film noir. --Jerry Renshaw ... Read more

Reviews (20)

"You know people who know people."
"Pick Up On South Street" is yet another great film from cult director, Sam Fuller. Pickpocket Skip McCoy (Richard Widmark), a three-time loser, is on probation for only a week when he picks the wallet from a woman's handbag on the subway. He thinks he's lifting money, but he actually steals microfilm--copies of classified government documents containing a patent for a chemical formula. The woman, hard and mouthy, Candy (Jean Peters) is unaware of the true nature of the envelope she is about to pass to a communist agent. She thinks she's just doing her old boyfriend, Joey, a favour.

Soon Candy's ex, the police, and communist agents are all looking for Skip. Everyone--sooner or later--contacts the best snitch in town, Moe (Thelma Ritter). Moe's dread of being buried in Potter's field when she longs for a fancy plot in Long Island ensures that she'll sell information--after all, "every extra buck has a meaning of its own." Moe may have her price, but she doesn't do business with 'commies.' The film emphasizes the idea that thievery is one thing, but treason is a different matter. In the film, the criminal characters (Skip, Moe, and Lightning Louie) all live on the fringes of society in out-of-the-way dives and hovels. Their survival is based on not being too picky about how they make ends meet, so they have a certain tolerant co-existence with each other.

This film works so well due to the fine characterizations. There's Skip--he's not fussy who buys the film--and the whole patriotism argument just doesn't matter as far as he's concerned. The police detective in charge of the case isn't exactly an old friend, and so Skip's not about to hand over the stolen film. This is my personal favourite of all Sam Fuller's films. On the surface, it may seem that Fuller is paying court to the fear of Communism with this film's plot. But protagonist Skip McCoy isn't part of the society he's suddenly supposed to respect and protect. He's on the outside looking in, and his "what's in it for me attitude" leads him to make some tough choices. He's not a patriot--he's a survivor. Candy is as hard as nails--she's hardly naive or innocent, but even she's shocked to find herself mixed up with Communists. Thelma Ritter in an Oscar nominated role for best supporting actress is amazing. Her scenes are incredible. I love the scene when Moe questions the police detectives about Skip's technique. Also the amazingly violent subway chase was brilliantly executed. This Criterion DVD contains many extras that make the extra expense worthwhile for the film aficionado. There's an interview with Sam Fuller and trailers for his films (some of them are now sadly out-of-print). For the Sam Fuller fan, this Criterion DVD package is both fascinating and essential--displacedhuman

top-level film noir
Better than most film noir entries, Samuel Fuller's PICKUP ON SOUTH STREET explores the life of a pickpocket who gets in over his head. Skip McCoy picks a pocket on the subway, and gets classified government documents for his troubles.

The police convince a woman to help them find Skip and the microfilm, and heavy drama ensues. Thelma Ritter is especially good as the informant. Today her acting would be considered over-the-top and unconvincing, but for the time, it was a standout performance. Widmark is excellent as the pickpocket, with his portrayal only rivalled by his work in KISS OF DEATH (also a must-see film noir).

As a landmark film for Widmark and Ritter, as well as for director Samuel Fuller, PICKUP ON SOUTH STREET is a must-see for fans of 1940s cinema and film noir.

ken32

missed opportunity
Made during the height of the cold war hysteria,
this film gets sidetracked by mindless red baiting.
It also descends into cheesy melodrama on a couple of
occasions marring the pacing of the movie. It's too
bad but pickup doesn't live up to its reputation as
top notch noir.

A 1950's classic
For those who appreciate the fine acting of Thelma Ritter, this film is a must-have (along with Alfred Hitchcock's "Rear Window"). Her portrayal as the informant is a classic role for one of the best supporting actresses Hollywood has ever seen.

Richard Widmark also lends one of the greatest performances of his career, right up there with his roles in "Kiss of Death" (1947) and "Judgement at Nuremburg" (1961). The Criterion release provides a magnificent restoration of this underrated film noir gem.

I am rather baffled as to the clueless wonder at Amazon.com who tagged this motion picture with an NC-17 rating. Either that person didn't see the film, or the lights are on but nobody's home. "Pickup on South Street" isn't a skin flick. It is one of the greatest dramatic thrillers of the 1950's.

Get this DVD on Criterion. It's an essential classic for any serious film collector.

A top notch film noir
Skip Mc Coy (Richard Widmark) is a person without colective importance; a rough pickpocket , a scroungy pretty gangster who sneeks a look into a woman's handbag, turns up some microfilm and finds himself dealing with communist agents.
This is a well made film, with a lot of issues. Moe (Thelma Ritter)overtakes this role as a street peddler who sells information.
A film which reveals as a few, the sordid and sinister underworld linked with the spy world which is blackmailed by a pedestrian thief.
Fuller's view is incisive, bitter and ironical. Nevetheless the film has unforgettable funny situations.
Thelma Ritter was a very talented actress and bowever, she never won an Academy Award ; but her shinning presence gives to the clever script that touch of class and outrageous fierce character; and of course don't forget adding the charismatical performance of Richard Widmark.
One of the most imaginative and powerful film noir made in any age. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Harmless early 80's racial comedy
Segal is Walter Whitney, an easy-going yet privileged Angelino who is enjoying the easy-going life of an executive reached after years of hard work. A very-pre everything Denzel Washington is Roger Porter, the son of an African American woman who was once the love of Walter's life. When a righteous Walter realizes that Roger is his son, he's a bit shocked, but tries to assimilate him into his family anyway. Unfortunately, Walter didn't consider...anything, and soon he's on the outside, cut off from his wife (Susan St. James) and cozy job, with no choice but to assimilate to Roger's way of life. Soon, the former exec is waiting at street corners for day-jobs, or getting arrested by cops. Through it all (actually most), he's still the same old Walter, feverishly wondering how he'll get back to what he lost.

This was sort of a lost-gem-in-the-rough. The script isn't sure whether to make Walter and Roger rivals (in which each would at least subconsciously be out to prove who's better at living his way) or a true father&son team. The flick starts out with a running gag that Walter is actually a descent guy whose achievements have incidentally led him to be surrounded by incredibly bigoted people (they haven't affected him, but they haven't revealed their own darker side...yet). Once Walter is cast out from Brentwood, that joke disappears, and Segal is trapped in a fish-out-of-water story - consigned to a car without breaks, and a wreck of an apartment. (Other jokes include Walter's disgust when he realizes that his black son can't play basketball). Though weak, it's still fun. If Segal and Washington don't work well with each other, they still bring some fun to the table - especially Denzel Washington's disarmingly cheery outlook, now against the grain of his more recognizable seriousness. "You can teach me to build a model airplane", he suggests, "I can teach you how to pick a lock." Jokes like that should cater to the worst in you, but Washington's delivery reminds you it's all in good fun.

A Terrific Movie
This is a funny wonderful film that can be viewed a thousand times and you never get tired of it!

Fun movie with great chemistry between the two leads
I've always enjoyed the great comic talents of George Segal however what is not commonly known is the fine dramatic skills that he also possesses as seen in such fine dramatic roles as "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf". "Carbon Copy" came late in Segal's incredibly successful run of comedies through the 1970's and early 80's that included hits such as "The Duchess and the Dirty Water Fox, "A Touch of Class","Who is killing the Great Chefs of Europe", and "Fun with Dick and Jane". This film fittingly involves a comic story with many serious undertones and is an early very fine effort in depicting white and black relations in film.

Carbon Copy", tells the story of a very successful white business executive (George Segal) who appears to have it all, the great house, top job, beautiful wife and all the luxuries that money can buy who one day comes face to face with the son he never knew he had (Denzel Washington in a terrific movie debut). The major problem here is however that the son is not only the result of a previous love affair but black as well which would not sit well with his upwardly mobile lifestyle and snobby family. The resulting situation once his son is introduced to his family has both funny and sad repurcussions as Segal sees his whole world crumble before his eyes and he finds himself out of a job, homeless, with no money, sharing a rundown apartment in a "bad neighbourhood" with his son and being reduced in a very comical scene to shovelling horse manure to earn a few bucks for food. Along the way much soul searching is done by both father and son as they realise the other is not naturally the enemy and that colour should not be something that necessarily should keep them apart.

The chemistry between the two leads, the more experienced George Segal and a young Denzel Washington is terrific and they are in turn very funny together as seen in the scenes when driving in Washington's beat up old car and in the scene when they are booking into the cheap motel for the night, and touchingly dramatic as they slowly discover more about each other and decide to try at a life together as father and son. The rapport between them is terrific and both play off each other to great effect.It is easy to see that Denzel Washington, one of today's finest actors was destined for great things even at this early stage in his career. He is perfectly natural and delivers a refreshingly honest performance as th eyoung black man trying to find his roots. His performance is a mixture of frustration, curiosity and comic ability. He has you alternately laughing and crying which is the sign of true talent indeed. While definately a light comedy "Carbon Copy",does however deliver an important message about race relations and perceptions while not deliberatly pointing the finger at either racial group for being distrustful of the other. Many significant points on how we should view people are delivered in among the great comedy moments in the film.

Being a big George Segal fan there is much to like in "Carbon Copy". While not his greatest film he still displays that wonderful comedy delivery that charmed audiences in the 1970's and 80's. It's only a pity that he didn't continue in films at a later period rather than moving fulltime into television. I highly recommend "Carbon Copy", for an enjoyable hour and a half that will also get you thinking in a subtle way about how people do actually relate to each other. Enjoy the highjinks of white father and black son as cultures collide in "Carbon Copy".

Light hearted clean comedy
This movie was very entertaining! It is a must see for all Denzel Washington and George Segal fans.

A BLAST!!
My family had this video for a few years, and I can truly say that it is one of the best movies I have ever watched. The movie itself is fun, but yet shows the ups and downs of a father son relationship in a prejudiced society.

There are also a lot of funny one liner, like when the main charchter refers to his son as being "Hickory Bronze", the same colour as a car, or when her learns the hard way, that being black does not mean you can play B-Ball.

I great movie for ALL members of the family.
Highly recommended ... Read more

Amazon.com

Approved by J. Edgar Hoover himself, this idealized telling of the FBI's origins spans the years between Hoover's appointment in the '20s and the Red Scare of the mid-'50s. Beginning with an investigation that showcases the talent and resources available to the FBI, dedicated agent Chip Hardesty (Jimmy Stewart) tells new recruits how the agency was streamlined into a professional crime-fighting organization. Using his personal life story as a backdrop, Hardesty takes the new men (and the viewer) through cases involving gangsters, land grabs, and Communist spies. Vera Miles plays Hardesty's dedicated wife, while Murray Hamilton helps out as gung-ho fellow agent Sam Crandall. Lots of pro-Hoover PR and propaganda, but it never gets in the way of the action or family drama. Interestingly, the history of the Hardesty family is almost as good as the history of the agency.--Mark Savary ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Pure Malarkey
The USA got along fine for 150 years without a national police force before the Congress in its wisdom tapped a mentally unbalanced lawyer and career bureaucrat to run the Federal Bureau of Investigation. To his credit, J. Edgar Hoover did introduce modern scientific method to the practice of criminology, but activities of the FBI's field agents have been a fiasco from the word go. Unintentionally, from the producers standpoint, you get some sense of the FBI's relentless bungling in this film, a dramatized "history" of the agnecy, in which the Bureau is usually a day late and a dollar short, crossing wires with local law enforcement officers at every turn and making big noises about very small accomplishments. Murray Hamiltion delivers a monologue about the necessity of a police state that is truly despicable. It's a shame that James Stewart, a genuine patriot and conservative, lent his reputation to this tripe.

Great movie despite the flaws
This movie is a view of the FBI that was approved by J. Edgar Hoover himself, so it has lots of propaganda and at least two major errors -the famous Kansas City massacre of the FBI agents was erroneously attributed to Pretty Boy Floyd and there was no proof that Ma Barker was in the Barker gang. Nevertheless, it's lots of fun. High drama, a good script and famous criminal names move the story along. It slows a bit when the James Stewart character has family problems, but that's okay. It has a slam-bang beginning and even a great musical score. Everybody in the movie is terrific.

The Early Days Of The FBI
1959 film which chronicles the early days of the Federal Bureau of Investigation through the eyes of one it's g-men, played by Jimmy Stewart. Film starts with the small scale cases that agents were assigned to, such as an investigation of financial thieves in the 1920's. Film continues from the 20's all the way into the 1950's, covering such topics as the famous era of gangsters in the 1930's, exposing German operatives in South America during WWII, and tracking down Russian Spies in America during the first full decade of the Cold War, the 1950's. The FBI Story covers the evolution of the agency and the emotions of a family towards their father's dangerous job in the FBI. Good movie, that does well at explaining the happenings in the film. Film gives good insight into how the FBI operated back then, using occasional narration alongside the story.

Great FBI movie
This is definately the best movie made about the FBI. Stewart is as always, great, in a role made just for him. The movie follows Stewart and his carrer through the Bureau. It starts in the 20's, and goes through until the 50's. He solves famous cases, fights the Ku Klux Klan, fights gangsters, and still manages a family. Vera Miles is great as his wife, with Murray Hamilton as his best friend and fellow agent. This is one of the best depictions of the Bureau, showing its' victories and always giving credit to its' agents. It shows the coruage and bravery of the agents and the men who help out in their labs. The film is definitely the best depictoin of the FBI in film history.

G man James Stewart
Here, the real life Air Force General and decorated war hero plays the part of a true blue FBI Special Agent who rises through the ranks to become an instructor at the FBI Academy. J. Egdar Hoover actually did a thorough background investigation of James Stewart to make sure he was the kind of morally upright straight American who was suitable to play the part of an FBI Special Agent. Needless to say, James Stewart passed with flying colours. An uncritical view of the FBI and their exploits from prohibition to WW2 and beyond. The most touching part is when his wife leaves him because she can't take the stress of being a Special Agent's wife and worries about his safety. Later, she returns when she realises how much her children miss him. James Stewart is superb in this role playing the patriotic, idealistic straight American hero who stands for Truth, Freedom and the American Dream. This movie is based on the book of the same name about the Bureau. As the FBI motto goes, Fidelity, Bravery, Integrity. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Real GOOD BUY!
Niven, Brando and sweet Shirley does good performance.
Every time I see this film it makes me laugh.
It really is a kind of movie to watch on Friday night!

Hilarious!!!
This movie was fantastic, and that is hard to get from me, since I don't usually enjoy comedies. Brando and Niven both play very well together. I would certainly reccommend this movie.

Silly Story, But Fun
This movie was funny. This film is also the perfect example of how critics can mislead viewers. Is this a great movie? Well not really, but it is quite entertaining. Marlon Brando plays Freddy Benson, a American Army officer who uses false stories about his sick grandmother to take advantage of women. David Niven plays Lawrence Jameson, a British man who pretends to be royalty to take advantage of women. The two eventually collide in a battle of the players to see who is better. Their subject is Janet Walker(Shirley Jones), a sweet American woman they both meet. The plot of this film is very simple and even repetitive at times. However, Brando and Niven make it work. Both are hillarious and they have great chemistry. Jones is clearly out of her league with these two, but she tries. Indeed the films great weakness was the lack of punch at the conclusion. It just ended. Where it failed Dirty Rotten Scoundrals succeeded. It was based on the script for Bedtime Story and is a better film. Watch this film, enjoy it, and then see Dirty Rotten Scoundrals, and enjoy it more. The critics should agree with that.

MUCH Better Than "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels"!
See this movie AND THEN see "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," a remake of "Bedtime Story." I think you'll agree that the remake is inferior and the original is FAR funnier. I cry with laughter every time I see the scene in which David Niven whips Marlon Brando!

Who was that wise moviemaker who said, "Don't remake GOOD movies; remake BAD movies"? Sam Goldwyn? In any event, "Bedtime Story" DIDN'T need to be remade. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A VERY POWERFUL MOVIE
What a powerful cast of actors for this movie! I'm a great Farrah fan, but the fact that this movie is based on a true murder makes it all the more sensational. It is a long movie, but well worth watching all in one sitting-I did not get bored-in fact, I kept thinking about the real people involved in this case.

Great Movie
This is an all time classic movie. I have seen it several times on TV and would like to own it on video -- If you get the opportunity to see this movie -- Don't pass it up!

Best murder mystery in Texas, We want the video!
My sister lived in Houston at the time I read the book. We became obsessed with it. Rode by Joan Hills house and Ash Robinson's in River Oaks. Went to the Avalon Drugstore where Joan shopped. I am a horse trainer and the fact that she was involved with horses made it more real to me! We are planning to go to Houston soon and visit her grave and bring flowers. May Joan Hill rest in Peace and where is John Hill anyhow?

I've never forgotten it, have seen it three times!
It's haunting AND it all happened. It makes you wonder how many other deaths are really murder. I want to buy it, so I can watch it when I'm in the mood to be afraid all over gain.

It was one of the best movies I have seen.
I like any thing with Sam Elliott in it. Some of the looks he gives sends chills up my spine. Andy Griffith was good in it to. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

A Great '80's Comedy. A Must-See!
Hey, movie lovers! If you like 80's movies, you must see this 1988 comedy! It's about a 16 year old dude named Les (Corey Haim, The Lost Boys) who wants nothing more in the world than a driver's license. Unfortunately, he thinks he knows everything about driving and doesn't need to study for his test. Is he right? No way!
The most beautiful girl in his school (Heather Graham, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me) has just asked him out on a date. There's only one problem: He doesn't have a license! Does that stop him? No! He sneaks out in the middle of the night in his grandpa's '72 Cadillac, thinking nothing can possibly go wrong. He tries his best to keep anything from happening to it, which he finds out is almost impossible!!
This movie was filmed in 1987, and released in the summer of 1988. It also features Corey Feldman (also from the Lost Boys) and is a great comedy, and a must-see! Unfortunately, its out of print on VHS, but hopefully it will come back, and on DVD! You gotta see it!! It has GOT to be the best 80's movie ever made!!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhahahaha!!!
Corey Haim & Corey Feldman in the same movie!!!! OH MY!!!

Yeah, if you're a fan of either there is NO DOUBT you'll love this movie. But even if you don't its still pretty darn hilarious.

Plot: A 16yrs kid Les(Corey Haim) goes out for his driving test and well...Miserably fails. Afraid of telling his parents he lets them believe he passed until his mom finds the "Failed" paper in him clothes while doing the laundry. But that night he still ends of driving in order to take out this babe(Heather Graham). More or less to impress her.

Does'nt seem to interesting, but it ONLY get's better. Not to mention Corey Feldman gives this hilariously stupid speech about why kids have the right to drive after waiting 16yrs. And IF you have seen any of his teen movies before you know where this is headed.

Has some great scenes including a drunk lunatic. Hey and Carol Kane is a plus. It is a shame its out of print. They should put it on DVD. It may be an 80's movie, but I think in one way or another us teens can relate to it.

Enjoy!

God Bless ~Amy

The best 80's movie ever
I hope that they put this movie on DVD because it is the best 80's movie ever. It was made when Cory Haim and Cory Feldman were at there all time best. Put this movie on DVD

put this movie on dvd
i think movie like this one an other need to be put on dvd license to drive i like that movie alot make you laugh all the way though it wish they make more movies like this one like lot of the older movies should be put on dvd

Bring it on the DVD
This is one of my childhood favorite movies and I'm surprised that it's not released on DVD and there are other movies that wasn't half as good as this movie that are released on DVD's, this is one of the underrated teenage comedies of the 80's and this movie is about a 16 year old Les Anderson (Corey Haim) who is trying to get his driver's license and he wants to go out on a date with the beautiful Mercedes (Heather Graham and this was her film debut) and he wants to impress his friends Dean (Corey Feldman who puts in a great performance) and Charles (forgot who played him), later at the party Mercedes asks Les out for a date that night and he is ecstatic and that was the day when he has his driving exam but things didn't turn out the way it plans for Les cause he failed his driver's exam and he lies to his parents (Richard Masur and Carol Kane who also put on great performances) that he passed and Les's father is a guy reaching middle age that is trying hard to deal with insanity and the parent's find out about him failing his driver's exam and the father grounds him for 2 weeks, later that night Les sneaks outside in his grandfather's classic 1972 Cadillac Sedan Deville out for a joyride and picks up Mercedes and goes out for a thrill of a lifetime, but unfortunately Mercedes gets all drunk and he picks up his friends Dean and Charles and what happens later on in the movie is frightening but hilarious and it'll make you cringe and laugh at the same time, but I won't spoil the details. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Fond memories
I remember watching this movie when I was a kid. It was really funny with a cute side to it. I definately reccomend watching it if you think you've already seen every good comedy movie out there. It is a definate must see. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Underrated comedy
After reading a couple of reviews saying this film is very mediocre, I didn't have very high expectations on it, so I was surprised to see how funny it actually is. The actors are doing a fine job and there are some really fun scenes. One of the funniest scenes is the one where Maggie (Doris Day) and Waldo (Robert Morse) are sleeping and Maggie's husband, Peter (Patrick O'Neal) is trying to talk to them and Maggie says "Oh, hello, Peter, so you're here" every time he wakes her up. It's overall a very entertaining movie that certainly is worth watching. Have a nice video night!

Interesting Movie
I own all 39/39 of Doris Days Movies and I bought this one a few weeks ago. And I didn't remember all of it since I hadn't seen it in a few years. And I will say one thing I wasn't to happy.

Margaret (Doris Day) is a famous actoress on the Broadway Stage is famous for her roles as a virgin storms out on her Husband Peter (Patrick O'Neal) when she finds out he was fooling around with a nother women Roberta Lane (Lola Albright). And then she accidentally gets mischarged of having some relationship with Waldo Zane (Robert Morse) who went into her vacation house when she was in it and fell asleep right next to her. This movie takes place when the Lights Went Out notice the Title Of The Movie. I can see why this was never rated as one of Miss Days best movies it catches her in a bad role. This movie had some of the funniest people in Hollywood wich include.

Terry-Thomas - Ladislau Walichek
Steve Allen - Radio Announcer
Jim Backus - Tru-Blue Lou
Pat Paulsen - Subway Conductor
Randy Whipple - Marvin Reinholtz
Earl Wilson - Himself
Ben Blue - Man with a razor
Parley Baer - Dr. Dudley Caldwell
Dale Malone - Otis J. Hendershot, Jr.
Robert Emhardt - Otis J. Hendershot, Sr.
Harry Hickox - Detective Capt. Percy Watson

Great Cast Corny Movie.

Strange things happen in New York City Blackout!
Robert Morse (How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying [1967]) plays an accident-prone man that puts everything in prospective. In exactly 12 hours, New York City will experience a black-out, this November 9, 1965, that changed this man's life. He narrates to you exactly where he will be. While he walks the street, near-accidents could happen to him, but he escapes danger within seconds. This man has just managed to steal a load of cash from his executive workplace. Just as there is a blackout, he can't get an airplane flight out. Doris Day's performance is blacked-out, so show cancelled. Then she catches her boyfriend with another woman. She goes back to Connecticut. The Theif is trying to get to Boston. The paths of these two have been repeatedly crossing this black-out night, but they are about to meet under safe, unusual circumstances. Cast includes: Terry-Thomas, Patrick O'Neal, Steve Allen, Jim backus, and Pat Paulsen.

Not Doris Days Most Funny
I had never heard of this cute little Doris Day movie until I found it on Amazon. I would like to give it 3 stars, but as a Doris Day fan it moved to 4 stars. It's not as funny as her others, but it is Doris Day and that's good enough for me!

Low-Wattage Script Turns Day to Night
It was only a matter of time before some one turned the the famous 1960s New York City blackout into a bedroom farce--but this script would have been better left in the dark. Day is always entertaining to watch, and supporting players Robert Morse, Terry-Thomas, Steve Allen, and Jim Backus also give their all, but they can't charge up this mishmash of misguided comedy. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Chandler gets my Vote any Day
AWAY ALL BOATS is a great WWII film set in the Pacific. Jeff Chandler gives one of his best performances ever as the Captain. He was the best choice for this role because it brought out his best qualities. He is a thinking man's Captain in the best tradition of the genre. There is also a lot of WWII jargon that has been lost from films for many years now. They don't make them this way now days. Our loss.

DVD is less than average
I saw this DVD at a local retailer at a discounted price and couldn't resist the bargain. It's a total waste of money. The picture qaulity is pretty good, but it's a pan and scan transfer, the sound is mono and not that great, and there are no special features save the usual French + Spanish subtitles and scene index. Typical GoodTimes style disc.

A Study in Naval Leadership
This is a story of a ship, its captain and crew, as they are melded into one. Chandler is great (I agree with other reviewers: we lost him way too young), but it is the story that is fascinating.

As the son of a WWII Chief Petty Officer, I was glad to see that the film captures the Chiefs as the "backbone of the Navy."

It is a must have for a WWII film library.

A great Clint Eastwood film!!
Can you find him? Mr. Eastwood plays a bit part in this pretty good WWII movie. I gave it 5 stars because I think everyone should see it at least once.

# 1 reviewer has it right, good for a rainy day
I was a great fan of Jeff Chandler when I was young. I did not even see this movie until years after his death. He was underrated as an actor, and died way to young (at 42 of blood poisoning following surgery in 1961). Men will probably appreciate this as a "war film" more than women. Women will only appreciate it if they were fans of Chandler in their youth. Most people don't know about him. He is all but forgotten today, and was in the mid-fifties one of the highest paid actors of his day. Check out the tribute sites to Jeff Chandler on the web, and buy Esther Williams new bio "Million Dollar Mermaid" due out Sept. 14. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

THE SKIN GAME
received the video and am very happy with it -- very fast
moving - james garner is a big favorite of ours - always
gives a great performance. LOVE IT!

Casting Could Not Have Been Better
Garner and Gossit play off each other with the rythm and wit of a fine orchestra. I can't think of any reason to give this 4 stars instead of 5 other than the fact that there have been so many GREAT movies that I'm not sure where the cut off should be. Perhaps slightly above this fine film, or perhaps I'm wrong and it qualifies for the 5 star level. In any case, if you have not seen this movie, do so by all means. It is highly entertaining.

The tittle says it all
Garner and Gossett Jr. have the perfect scheme pre-civil war south and by selling and reselling they make a fair living. Naturally things go wrong.
This movie is a great surprise if you have not seen it. It is like seeing the first of any great movie idea. Remember the first Starwars? Or Support Your Local Sheriff (1969) ASIN: B00004WZR1." Later you are jaded and already used to the type of movie. This is one up on Garner's character in Maverick (1994) ASIN: 6304406061. And Louis Gossett Jr. excels as he did in Enemy Mine (1985) ASIN: 6300248100 wher he is still on the other side of a larger Mason-Dioxin line.

Better tape your ribs before watching this one.

An excellent study of white-black relationships 150 years ag
I was impressed by the willingness of the producers to use the attitudes and language true to the era. Lou Gossett is superb as the "slave" as he switches from groveling chattel to Garner's equal and Edward Asner as the sadistic bully. ... Read more