Description

Walt Disney Pictures' TUCK EVERLASTING, a timeless and enchanting adventure about one girl's magical summer, will captivate audiences of any age. Young Winnie Foster, stifled by the formality of her proper life and domineering mother, escapes into the woods only to get lost. Soon she happens upon Jesse Tuck -- a boy full of life and adventure who's unlike anyone she's ever met -- and falls in love.The Tucks, a kind and generous family, have a powerful secret -- a spring that holds the magic of everlasting life. And now Winnie must choose to live life as she knows it or drink from the spring. It's a life-affirming adventure that will cast its irresistible spell over you again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (90)

"Captivating Tale of Love, Immortality, and Choices We Make"
Even though I teach middle school, I had not read this book. My students mentioned it often however, and as an instructor of Greek mythology, I became curious about the story when I learned its basic premise was immortality. (I have been told that there was much less a love interest between the teenagers in the book, however this emendation certainly lends a magical spark to the timeless story.) Upon seeing the movie, I can recommend it not only for its excellent treatment of this subject, but also as a film the whole family can enjoy and discuss afterward.

In brief, this is the story of those (the family Tuck) who would seek to live forever. Unlike the mythological Tithonius however, who was granted everlasting life without eternal youth, the Tuck family becomes immortal from the moment they drink of the mystical pool at the foot of an ancient tree--a tree that will lend a poignant and touching climax to the end of the film.

Suffice it to say, the acting is wonderful. High profile heavyweights such as Ben Kingsley, Sissy Spacek and William Hurt give predictable sterling performances. Victor Garber (Alias; Annie) is also excellent as the wealthy father. But Alexis Bledel (Gilmore Girls) as Winnie Foster is simply disarming. She is convincing and superb in her effort to balance her desire for love in a life outside of time, with her responsibility to live the life intended for her. The talent of the cast, as well as the curiosity of the storyline makes for few dull moments, and the conclusion left me with one wet Kleenex!

This is a beautiful film--from the scenery, to the music, to the performances, to the plot. Yes, it might be simplistic and predictable, but it would take a crusty old grinch to say that this ninety minutes wasn't thoroughly delightful, and time well spent.

In the end, the age-old questions remain--is immortality all we would dream it to be? Is it quantity, or quality of life that is important? Does living forever make one unique and privileged, or does it (as Tuck would say) make one merely a rock stuck in a mud bank beside a flowing stream? And where does love fit into this equation? Is being given the love of your life, or loving the life you're given the more appropriate choice? The answer is found in Winnie's final decision on whether or not to drink from the eternal pool--a decision I could not have made.

Much better than the Country Bears!
About 2 to 5 weeks ago, I was watched the Country Bears, and found it a bad film by Disney, and now they have made it up, they made and came with this movie called "Tuck Everlasting". Which is about a girl that meets teenageer that is 104, and I must say that for being 104, that Jessie Tuck looks better good for his age. The girl is 15 years old and her name is Winfred. The Tucks are immortal, becuase they have discorved a a pond, that makes them living forever, even if they fall, and don't get hurt, or shot but not get hit. As the movie opens, Winfred "Winnie" Foster (Alexis Bledel) has met a stranger in a yellow suit, who is looking for the Tucks. Her parents decide to send her to a school that would manners. She doesn't want to go and runs away from home, and his lost in the woods and she runs into Jessie Tuck (Jonathan Jackson), who tells her to get out of the woods and to go home. But she runs, and runs into Jessie's grumpy brother Miles (Scott Barrstow), who takes her to his mom (Sissy Spaey). Who tells Miles to get his father (William Hurt) from fishing, because "he'll" not what to do with Winnie. I would reccomend this movie to you on dvd, if you love movies in "letter-box" fromat, and if you don't, then you will have to settle for the video tape edition, but a word of warning, if you get this on dvd, there are trailers for other movies like George of the Jungle 2 and Inceptor Gadge 2.

Love this movie
I love this movie! it is a great film...maybe better then the book. i cried for hours after i watched this movie (which is a good thing) if you like sad movies you'll love this!!!

Tuck Everlasting
Tuck Everlasting sure is everlasting.The movie isn't completely terrible.It really explores life and death but it takes to long.The whole time I kind of felt bored.The plot is good but I don't think it or the book it was adapted from are all that great.Maybe this just isn't my kind of film but it just took forever to get to the climax and it was only 90 minutes.The acting definetly isn't Oscar winning; the only great performance was by Sissy Spacek.The dialogue is of course compatible to this kind of movie but I still didn't really like it.It was a little better than I thought it would be, though.If you are interested in living forever or dealing with death or your just a kid you may like it more than the rest of us out there.To add to everything else I didn't really like the time setting.Check this one out if you want to be bored.Young Winnie Foster, stifled by the formality of her proper life and domineering mother, escapes into the woods only to get lost.Soon she happens upon Jesse Tuck- a boy full of life and adventure who's unlike anyone she's ever met- and falls in love.The Tucks, a kind and genorous family, have a powerful secret- a spring that holds the magic of everlasting life.And now Winnie must choose to live life as she knows it or drink from the spring.

"Like the Tuck family themselves, this movie just goes on and on and on and on"
-- Larry Carroll, COUNTINGDOWN.COM

the story is a bit thin but some scenes are simply powerful
It was not as great a story or character development as I could have hoped for, but overall I was not dissapointed. The scenery was beautiful, the 2 main characters also were beautiful and they had some powerful scenes between them.

The scene of him helping her in the water because she cannot swim is one of the most romantic and touching few minutes of film I have ever seen. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Better Than The Book
As far as TV movies go, "Killing Mr. Griffin" is a pretty good teen-oriented suspense film and a definite improvement on the 1978 book Lois Duncan wrote. In the book, there's no main character to empathize with, but in the movie, Susan McConnell (played by Amy Jo Johnson) is the leading protagonist, who is targeted by a group of popular classmates and asked to assist them in a senior prank played on Mr. Griffin (Jay Thomas), the harsh English teacher at Del Norte High School. Things go wrong, though, when Mr. Griffin accidentally dies on them due to his heart condition, and now all six teens must try and cover up his death.

Most of the book's characters are the same in the movie, except for Tori and Bree (Mindy Spence and Jennifer Hammon), who are kind of a combination of Betsy Cline, the cheerleader in the book. Tori is probably the closest thing to Betsy, though--she's basically a blonde rah-rah. But in the movie, Tori is Mark Kinney's (Scott Bairstow) girlfriend, whereas in the book, Mark was pretty much a loner. He's also much more popular and charismatic in the movie--and not all that bad-looking either. ;)

The remaining two guys, Dave Ruggles (Mario Lopez) and Jeff Garrett (Chris Young), act as Mark's sidekicks, but Dave is more in the spotlight than Jeff, because he's the one to lure Susan into their kidnapping scheme. Michelle Williams from "Dawson's Creek" even makes a few appearances as Susan's close friend, Maya (another made-up character for the movie).

If you've read "Killing Mr. Griffin" by Lois Duncan, then you might want to give this movie a try. In my opinion, it's much better than the book. It's more organized plot wise, has good character development and a somewhat better ending. Rated PG-13 for some violence and sensuality.

A somewhat dark teen flick
With lots of star power (Scott Bairstow, Amy Jo Johnson, Michelle Williams, and more), Killing Mr. Griffin occasionally hits home because it contains realistic elements of teenage life--at any rate, the life of an awkward, smart, unpopular teenage girl, Susan, who is dying to be popular. Amy Jo Johnson plays this part well. After her teacher, Mr. Griffin, humilates her in class, Susan agrees to be part of a prank that is operated by some of the popular kids, including the guy she has a crush on. The kids want to humilate Mr. Griffin, like he humiliates his students. But the prank goes horribly wrong, and the students spend the rest of the movie living with the consequences of having to keep a terrible secret. Susan is especially haunted by what has happened. Her friend Maya (Michelle Williams) and her family suspect she is hiding something, and Susan is conflicted between doing the right thing and keeping her "good girl" image. It's a bit scary at times. Sometimes even a little *too* dark and edgy. It isn't the best film out there, but it is an interesting story and features talented actors, which more than make up for the dreariness of the plot.

Great page-to-screen adaptation
Lois Duncan's Killing Mr. Griffin was an interesting novel in its own right, but this made for television movie manages to improve on the original. Amy Jo Johnson, the pretty young actress many may recognize as the former Pink Power Ranger, stars as Susan McConnell. Susan is a good student, yet she is shy and awkward around the popular crowd. She is especially shy around Dave (former "Saved by the Bell" player Mario Lopez), the handsome jock she has a crush on. Mark, the leader of the group Dave hangs with, is bent on becoming student body president and the most popular guy in high school. After being humiliated by Mr. Griffin, the notoriously strict English teacher, Mark develops a plan to get revenge. They will kidnap Mr. Griffin as a prank to humiliate him as he has humiliated students. Susan is unwittingly sucked into the plan by her feelings for Dave and her desire to become popular. Dave is pressured into using Susan's obvious feelings for him to a nasty advantage. The plan to kidnap Griffin goes almost as planned...but then he dies unexpectedly, and things spin out of control. The climax of the film is better than that in the novel, with just enough suspense to keep viewers hooked. Overall, this movie was excellent, and serves as a grim reminder of what peer pressure is capable of. The only qualm I had was that it was not a theatrical release. Highly recommended.

Would you go as far as murder for payback?
Killing Mr. Griffin could as well be true. A lot of people would go through anything just to fit in. But could you lose everything you know and understand in the process? An understandable movie about Responsibility, and Mistrust in the way of fitting in.

Mr. Griffin is a strict teacher. Maybe too strict. Five seniors at the school Mr. Griffin teaches at think so. When revenge is the first thought that comes to mind, Mark, David, Jeff, Bree, and Tori set out to find a way to get back at Mr. Griffin for what he's done, but no one is volunteering for bait. When Susan McConnell is put under the spotlight for what seems a harmless prank, she decides to go for it. Besides she gets a couple of satisfactions to go with it. One, she gets to fit in. Two, she can get Mr. Griffin back at embarrasing her in class, and Three, she can hang out with David, the guy she has a crush on. When Susan sees what doesn't seem like an inoccent prank, she goes to where they have left poor Mr. Griffin tied up, and hostage. But Mr. Griffin isn't moving. He isn't even breathing. He's dead. After trying to figure out what happened to Mr. Griffin, the six are faced up against the biggest decision of their lives. Tell what happened, or keep it a secret.

An amazing story. The characters may have been mixed up a little bit, but it still made a great story. Lois Duncan did well with the book, but I think the movie was better. In the book you weren't as sorry for Mr. Griffin as you were watching the movie. Jay Thomas gave an awesome portrayal of the overlystrict Mr. Griffin. I think they kind of mixed Susan and her friend Maya up on accident. Susan was supposed to be the loner with glasses, and not exactly attractive. But Susan was very attractive in this movie. It was kind of hard to believe she couldn't get a boyfriend. Like someone said before, Tori and Bree were a split up of Betsie in the book, but I don't think Betsie was exactly that "I'm so cool" kind of girl in the book. The boys were portrayed great. Snobbish, not exactly serious.

A great movie to the book which I also recommend. This time I recommend the movie first. Than read the book. Either way, Mr. Griffin will die twice. 5 stars without a doubt.

UNEXPECTED SURPRISE
This NBC-TV movie surprised me. Writers Kathleen Rowell and Michael Angeli are very adept in creating both scenes and dialogue that seems realistic: the mousy girl who wants to be popular; the teens who find themselves Svengalied by a handsome rich boy; how a boy interferes in the relationship between two blossoming young women. And some really credible performances, mainly from Amy Jo Johnson, Scott Bairstow, and Mario Lopez.
Jay Thomas Mr. Griffin is a difficult character to empathize with, but in view of what teachers have to put up with in school, one can understand his cynicism. However, one cant' excuse his cruely in humiliating students in front of their classmates. He is also an extremist. But...he doesn't deserve what happens to him.
Bairstow as Mark gives us a teen of arrogant self-delusion; a narcisstic liar; and an obviously psychotic personality. Johnson and Michelle Williams are great in showing the special bond between two good friends.
There's not a lot of action in the movie, but it really doesn't need it; the key here is what happens when people's lives aren't important to the callow youths who can't accept the responsibility of their acts.
A sharp, tidy thriller. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Falling from the Oscar-winning glory of Dances with Wolves to the opposite end of the critical and box-office scale, Kevin Costner must have been deeply humbled when this three-hour postapocalyptic tale--his sophomore effort as a director--was greeted with a critical thrashing and tepid audience response. One of the most conspicuous flops of its decade, the 1997 release must have seemed like a sure thing on paper: a kind of futurist Western starring Costner as a charismatic drifter-turned-hero who leads the resistance against a military tyrant (Will Patton) by reviving the long-dormant postal system to reunite isolated communities in their fight for freedom. The movie bombed, but, like many audacious failures, it's got qualities that make it at least partially endearing, and its earnestness (although bordering on corny) keeps it from being entirely silly. Faint praise, perhaps, but Costner's ode to patriotism is occasionally stirring and visually impressive. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (197)

Dances with post-apocalyptic bandits
I finally caught this movie on cable television last night and described it to my husband as a science-fiction version of "Dances with Wolves." Interestingly, it was being shown as part of a week of Westerns, and basically that is what it is also. It's very long, just like Dances with Wolves, Waterworld and every book that David Brin (with whom I am acquainted) has ever written. So, if you enjoy long books and long movies, you're in luck. The movie is no classic, but it is nevertheless enjoyable and entertaining. Costner's acting is OK, Will Patton is a standard-evil-genius-villain-type, and Larenz Tate shines as Costner's sidekick. I think the premise is a worthy one, and even a believable one (if you find post-apocalypse believable to start with). The U.S. Postal Service is the one federal agency that everyone uses, that most appreciate (though they do gripe about it) and that was (I think) the first one founded. It has a simple, vital, helpful mission: to bind society together through communication. Therefore, it likely would be the first one restored, and Brin and Costner illuminate this premise capably.

POST-"apocolyptic"-MAN
It is difficult to review a film that you like, when every professional critic has slammed it. On the other hand, I have to believe I am not alone in my tastes, so, here is some praise for "The Postman", Kevin Costner's cinematic version of the great book of the same name, written by David Brin.

After the success of "Dances With Wolves", it's pretty clear that Costner has been trying to recapture that epic feeling. But where "Water World" was silly to the point of being a caricature of a sweeping drama, "The Postman" avoids the trap. The nemesis, General Bethlehem is played seriously by Will Patton and the situation in general is believable if not completely explained.

I admit there were a few moments that were too heavy handed, the most memorable when the Postman gallops back to snatch a letter from a boy's hand. Even so, I can forgive a little over enthusiasm when it is mixed with a stirring tale. I know that during times of war, rhetoric is grist for the mill and so, the character's obsession with the American way, is understandable, given that it no longer exists.

You see, civilisation has fallen. It's implied that nuclear weapons were used, perhaps even biological weapons. Whatever the cause, people survive precariously, huddled together in fortified towns dreading the next visit of the Holenist army. A band of thugs created during the last days of the war and now led by General Bethlehem towards some nebulous vision, who's only constant is that Bethlehem will be the one in power.

Enter stage left, an unlikely hero. Kevin Costner's character may have a name but it is not revealed during the film. At first he is known as Shakespeare because he is a wandering loner who is sometimes driven to produce one man, one mule, productions of the Bard in the hopes of winning a meal from his audience. His aimless existence is abruptly ended when he is roughly drafted into the Holenist army.

From the first he stands out from the crowd of beaten hopeless recruits and so is singled out for special torments and duties. The army life is brutal enough without having earned the enmity of your squad leader. One thing leads to another and escape presents itself for Shakespeare. Without food or any other protection he stumbles on the remains of an old mail van and spends a night huddled in its dubious warmth, kept company by the body of a US Postal worker.

Whether by chance, destiny or foresight, he dons the guise of a postman and scams his way into a local town. "The mailman's here. Lock up your dogs." So long starved of civilisation, the bedraggled townsmen clamour for news of the world, the government, the future. He has little choice but to answer their questions, with creative and plausible fictions. It is here that the wheels of fate start turning.

The idea he has created, of a new America, is too big for one man to control. The film takes us on a steamroller ride headed straight towards the Holenist army. People with hope demand action. The desire for action creates leaders. Leaders are often forced to carry out the will of the people despite a lack of talent, desire or knowledge.

In this case, a young man, self named Ford Lincoln Mercury, forces the Postman to become a symbol of civilisation and eventually the symbol of resistance. Ford's passion and his actions are resisted for a long time but eventually the Postman comes to share the myth. One man can stand up to tyranny, especially with the help of a few courageous friends and the trust of one strong willed woman.

Love this movie
Simply put, It should have won an oscar. Once you get past the slow start (which is necessary to explain the rest of the movie) it becomes so moving. Reminds me of the Pony Express...and our American determination to be free. Even more moving since 911.

Makes no sense
This movie made no sense to me. It seems like Costner tried to make a modern western and failed miserably. There are very few redeeming factors in this movie. I understand the concept behind it, but thought it was developed poorly. You can defenitly skip this movie and not worry too much about it.

Wow
I've always seen postmen as the unsung heroes of middle America. Finaly, a movie that pays the kinda respect that postal employees deserve. Costner does another wonderful performance in this future classic. Almost as good as waterworld! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Utterly Weird
I'm still trying to figure out what on earth that floating body was about at the very beginning, and that's just the START of the confusion. Dominique's character just wasn't likeable at all, and I had no sympathy for any of the characters. Henry Thomas was the best of the lot, although even his character was a bit strange.
Fortunately I didn't buy the DVD for this film - I bought it for the excellent short film in the extras. Any fans of 24's Carlos Bernard should watch it. The Director of Dead In The Water redeems himself with this little film, and despite being only 25 minutes long it is far superior to the main feature. Thought-provoking and intelligent. Worth buying the DVD just to see this!

1 star is too much
I got all excited when I saw dominique's name flash on the screen. I loved her since Lolita. But this movie just sucks big time. The very beginning was horrible and it got a little better after the murder but I saved myself from this horrible movie and changed the channel. I didn't care about the movie anymore.

Great summer movie
This is a good movie for anyone that wants to be amused and thrilled on a random day in the week. Good for watching with friends. I think the movie is done very well. Intriguing beginning that makes you ponder throughout the whole movie about the end. In short: Great movie! Great thriller!

THE BEAUTIFUL DOMINIQUE SWAIN IN A [not so good] MOVIE!!!!
ASIDE FROM DOMINIQUE SWAIN, THIS MOVIE IS A TOTAL WASTE. IT IS SLOW THROUGHOUT AND IT HAS A VERY WEIRD PLOT.
NOT WORTH A LOOK UNLESS YOU WOULD ONLY SEE IT FOR DOMINIQUE SWAIN.
THAT IS MY EXCUSE, AND ALTHOUGH THE MOVIE WASN'T GOOD, DOMINIQUE SWAINS' BEAUTY SHINES THROUGHOUT!!!!!!
THIS MOVIE SHOWS A TALENTED ACTRESS IN A [not so good] MOVIE!!!
BUT HEY...... IT'S DOMINIQUE, SO IT MUST BE WORTH A LOOK!!!

Utterly Poor
Boy, what a bust. On all counts. The story goes nowhere. The actors, who have all done good work in other films, have nothing to work with. As a suspense/thriller, which is apparently what it is supposed to be, it fails miserably on every level.

And the DVD itself? The only feature of interest is the writer/director's short film, with a commentary track, that is more interesting than the feature length film. Inexplicably, an alternate ending to the feature is included that not only has no audio (and it IS a dialogue scene), but makes no sense whatsoever in context with what we've scene in the finished film. And the Production Featurette? 3 or 4 minutes of raw video footage of a handful of scenes being shot.

Stay far away from this one, it's not even good for a laugh. ... Read more

Amazon.com

You wouldn't know it by watching the mostly ridiculous escapades on display in Wild America, but this comedy/adventure for young boys is marginally based on the true story of Marshall, Mark, and Marty Stouffer, three young brothers who successfully pursued their dream of becoming wildlife filmmakers. From their home in the South, the Stouffer boys embark on a cross-country trek to the West, where they hope to get rare footage from inside the dreaded Cave of the Sleeping Bears. Along the way they encounter cute British tourist girls, deadly alligators, a rampaging moose, and an Air Force fighter on a bombing range. In other words, Wild America is about as contrived as it could possibly be and still claim to be based on reality, but it is harmless enough for young viewers with its wholesome message about bravery, hard work, and family togetherness. Jonathan Taylor Thomas (from television's Home Improvement) leads the young cast of adventurers. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Three cute boys, 'N' loads of cute animals!!
I think the title kind of explains it all really. Three guys going off into the wild of America, on a mission to find a cave filled with a thousand bears, although being told that they sleep alone, the boys don't believe anyone, find the cave, and have loads of adventures along the way!! Jonathan Taylor Thomas played a great part in this movie and he really narrated it well too! As I live in the UK, I was lucky enough to see it while I was in America, I'd always liked Jonathan and Devon's films, and this was another one I HAD TO HAVE!!! I would also say that this is a great film for all the family, only recently has it been released in the UK, but I bought it in America, luckily I have an international VCR. This film is way cool. I would really reccommend it.

It could have been better.
Wild America isn't that wild. It still has good story elements too it, but you feel cheated when you realize the kids in the movie didn't go anywhere but to a bunch of unknown areas. So much for going across America. The actors fit the movie perfectly. Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Devon Sawa, and Scott Bairstow seem to be enjoying their roles as the three boys who hit the road to film animals. The music is ok and the cinematography is wonderful. I wish they would have seen more animals. The movie made me smile throughout, but many aspects of the movie could have been better. Their trip across so called "America" could have been extented greatly and the mystery man should have been removed. He's just a waste of time and talent by Danny Glover. The DVD version has the widescreen aspect and the original trailer, plus a bunch of info on the movie. The Movie is rated PG for Profanity and violence, mainly. The swearing is totally pointless and if it were gone, would have made a better movie overall for kids. Watch at your own risk.

Great all round film!
I first saw this film in 1999 I loved it.The first thing that grabbed my attention was the 3 brothers and their relationship throughout the film and how it changes.The storyline with the youngest brother marshall was great.The film is like an adventure story,the type you would of loved to have gone on! Traveling,being young,free and inexperienced at almost everything.its a bit like a coming of age film,finding yourself etc.This all sounds heavy but its not,the film is filled with humour from the brothers and all the other characters,the animals are great and some even get in on the humour too.The music even grabs me,the whole thing is a feel good factor of a film,one I would recommend anyone watching of any age.

Not Bad
Okay so I wouldn't say this is the best movie I've ever seen. But I still really enjoyed it. I liked how they showed the relationship between the three brothers. Sure they picked on JTT but they still protected him especially Devon Sawa. He was more protective of him than Scott Bairstow. I liked the end and How JTT showed there father that they needed to find there own dream and the permission to follow them. So I'd reccomended it to Brothers and children 10 and Up. Sure The animals looked fake but It was still enjoyable.

An enjoyable, interesting plot with well-done acting
I haven't seen this movie too often, but I really enjoy it every time that I do. Why? Because it is full of fun, adventure and mild comedy. The acting is wonderful, all of the three boys are terrific. However, this isn't necessarily a movie for younger children-it is geared towards pre-teens and teenagers. There is obscenities, implications, and alcholol use that isn't right for everyone.
But, it is mad up for in the interesting plot. I don't know how much of this is true, but I enjoy it just the same. ... Read more

Description

Two escapees from an 1830s penal colony try to make it to a friendchr(39)s encampment. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

One for the Lone Star State.
This film stars Kris Kristofferson and Scott Bairstow as two fugitives from Louisiana. They go on the run after killing one of the two sadistic bosses (who also happen to be brothers) of the prison camp. The other boss begins a Captain Ahab-type of pursuit after the two escapees. Kristofferson's character knows about the war for independence occuring in Texas and figures the best chance they have of escape is to join Sam Houston's army. Along the way, an Indian slave joins the duo and Barstow's character and her fall in love. However, the two must separate when they make a dash for Houston's camp.

Kirstofferson is perfect in roles like this one and Bairstow doesn't do too bad of a job either, though the change in his character was a bit difficult to believe initially. Also, Tom Skerrit makes a great supporting performance as Gen. Sam Houston.

The movie starts off on a quick and upbeat pace, but slows down not long after the two convicts escape. From there the tempo of the movie becomes rather unsteady until the lead characters meet up with Houston. Then on out the movie remains at an upbeat pace that's quite enjoyable to watch.

There are a few historical inaccuracies, but in some places the film is more accurate than some big budget films about Texan independence.

Overall, a simple little Western about Texas' fight for independence that is rather enjoyable to watch.

Flavorful Account of Birth of Texas!
The Turner cable-TV movie, 'Two for Texas' will undoubtedly be compared with 'James Michener's Texas', another made-for-TV production that covers much the same ground. But while 'Michener's Texas' suffers from attempting to tell too much, becoming bogged down in melodramatic elements, 'Two for Texas' is a lean, rugged adventure that uses famous characters (Sam Houston, Jim Bowie) in support of the story, instead of as its focus, making this a FAR more enjoyable film!

The story begins with a chain gang in Louisiana, in early 1836. When one of the sadistic 'bosses' is accidentally murdered, two convicts escape, and head for Texas, hoping to start a new life, serving under General Sam Houston. The older of the pair, Hugh Allison (Kris Kristofferson), in prison for killing a card shark, takes events as they come, with the easy grace of a 'survivor'; Son Holland (Scott Bairstow), the younger man, left Tennessee for adventure, only to be sentenced for ten years after being falsely accused of stealing a woman's purse. Hot-headed and naive, Holland is dependent on Allison's wisdom to survive.

The journey to Texas is reminiscent of Howard Hawk's 'The Big Sky', as the two frontiersmen share a series of adventures, culminating in 'ownership' of a young Indian girl (Irene Bedard), who has a brief affair with Holland before being sent back to her tribe.

The brother of the murdered boss relentlessly trails the pair, until they are 'rescued' by Houston's men. In the 'Texican' camp, they meet General Houston, portrayed with quiet authority by Tom Skerritt, and Jim Bowie (a miscast but likable Peter Coyote). Bowie and Allison are old hell-raising friends, and, in one of the film's more light-hearted scenes, recount a few of the more famous tales of the inventor of the famous knife! Bowie is leaving for the Alamo, but asks the pair to remain with Houston, as the Texas army trains for battle.

With the fall of the Alamo eminent, Allison and Holland decide to join their friend Bowie, but arrive too late; the mission is a scene of carnage, with hundreds of bodies scattered among the ruins. Watching Texans' bodies being unceremoniously burned, they encounter Susannah Dickinson (Karey Green), a survivor, and wife of one of the defenders, In semi-shock, she tells of the final assault, and the deaths of her husband, and Davy Crockett; her monologue is the film's highpoint. Carrying a letter for Sam Houston from General Santa Anna, she takes the men to the body of Jim Bowie (a sadly moving scene, as Allison retrieves Bowie's knife). The trio then return to Houston's forces, vowing revenge!

The story is not without historical flaws, particularly in its presentation of the historical Mrs. Dickinson, but the film never loses momentum, and benefits from Kristofferson's craggy charm, as the plain-spoken Allison. This is the kind of role he does best, and he plays it to the hilt!

'Two for Texas' is a welcome addition to the select group of films about the Alamo, and Texas' struggle for independence! ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Better Than The Book
As far as TV movies go, "Killing Mr. Griffin" is a pretty good teen-oriented suspense film and a definite improvement on the 1978 book Lois Duncan wrote. In the book, there's no main character to empathize with, but in the movie, Susan McConnell (played by Amy Jo Johnson) is the leading protagonist, who is targeted by a group of popular classmates and asked to assist them in a senior prank played on Mr. Griffin (Jay Thomas), the harsh English teacher at Del Norte High School. Things go wrong, though, when Mr. Griffin accidentally dies on them due to his heart condition, and now all six teens must try and cover up his death.

Most of the book's characters are the same in the movie, except for Tori and Bree (Mindy Spence and Jennifer Hammon), who are kind of a combination of Betsy Cline, the cheerleader in the book. Tori is probably the closest thing to Betsy, though--she's basically a blonde rah-rah. But in the movie, Tori is Mark Kinney's (Scott Bairstow) girlfriend, whereas in the book, Mark was pretty much a loner. He's also much more popular and charismatic in the movie--and not all that bad-looking either. ;)

The remaining two guys, Dave Ruggles (Mario Lopez) and Jeff Garrett (Chris Young), act as Mark's sidekicks, but Dave is more in the spotlight than Jeff, because he's the one to lure Susan into their kidnapping scheme. Michelle Williams from "Dawson's Creek" even makes a few appearances as Susan's close friend, Maya (another made-up character for the movie).

If you've read "Killing Mr. Griffin" by Lois Duncan, then you might want to give this movie a try. In my opinion, it's much better than the book. It's more organized plot wise, has good character development and a somewhat better ending. Rated PG-13 for some violence and sensuality.

A somewhat dark teen flick
With lots of star power (Scott Bairstow, Amy Jo Johnson, Michelle Williams, and more), Killing Mr. Griffin occasionally hits home because it contains realistic elements of teenage life--at any rate, the life of an awkward, smart, unpopular teenage girl, Susan, who is dying to be popular. Amy Jo Johnson plays this part well. After her teacher, Mr. Griffin, humilates her in class, Susan agrees to be part of a prank that is operated by some of the popular kids, including the guy she has a crush on. The kids want to humilate Mr. Griffin, like he humiliates his students. But the prank goes horribly wrong, and the students spend the rest of the movie living with the consequences of having to keep a terrible secret. Susan is especially haunted by what has happened. Her friend Maya (Michelle Williams) and her family suspect she is hiding something, and Susan is conflicted between doing the right thing and keeping her "good girl" image. It's a bit scary at times. Sometimes even a little *too* dark and edgy. It isn't the best film out there, but it is an interesting story and features talented actors, which more than make up for the dreariness of the plot.

Great page-to-screen adaptation
Lois Duncan's Killing Mr. Griffin was an interesting novel in its own right, but this made for television movie manages to improve on the original. Amy Jo Johnson, the pretty young actress many may recognize as the former Pink Power Ranger, stars as Susan McConnell. Susan is a good student, yet she is shy and awkward around the popular crowd. She is especially shy around Dave (former "Saved by the Bell" player Mario Lopez), the handsome jock she has a crush on. Mark, the leader of the group Dave hangs with, is bent on becoming student body president and the most popular guy in high school. After being humiliated by Mr. Griffin, the notoriously strict English teacher, Mark develops a plan to get revenge. They will kidnap Mr. Griffin as a prank to humiliate him as he has humiliated students. Susan is unwittingly sucked into the plan by her feelings for Dave and her desire to become popular. Dave is pressured into using Susan's obvious feelings for him to a nasty advantage. The plan to kidnap Griffin goes almost as planned...but then he dies unexpectedly, and things spin out of control. The climax of the film is better than that in the novel, with just enough suspense to keep viewers hooked. Overall, this movie was excellent, and serves as a grim reminder of what peer pressure is capable of. The only qualm I had was that it was not a theatrical release. Highly recommended.

Would you go as far as murder for payback?
Killing Mr. Griffin could as well be true. A lot of people would go through anything just to fit in. But could you lose everything you know and understand in the process? An understandable movie about Responsibility, and Mistrust in the way of fitting in.

Mr. Griffin is a strict teacher. Maybe too strict. Five seniors at the school Mr. Griffin teaches at think so. When revenge is the first thought that comes to mind, Mark, David, Jeff, Bree, and Tori set out to find a way to get back at Mr. Griffin for what he's done, but no one is volunteering for bait. When Susan McConnell is put under the spotlight for what seems a harmless prank, she decides to go for it. Besides she gets a couple of satisfactions to go with it. One, she gets to fit in. Two, she can get Mr. Griffin back at embarrasing her in class, and Three, she can hang out with David, the guy she has a crush on. When Susan sees what doesn't seem like an inoccent prank, she goes to where they have left poor Mr. Griffin tied up, and hostage. But Mr. Griffin isn't moving. He isn't even breathing. He's dead. After trying to figure out what happened to Mr. Griffin, the six are faced up against the biggest decision of their lives. Tell what happened, or keep it a secret.

An amazing story. The characters may have been mixed up a little bit, but it still made a great story. Lois Duncan did well with the book, but I think the movie was better. In the book you weren't as sorry for Mr. Griffin as you were watching the movie. Jay Thomas gave an awesome portrayal of the overlystrict Mr. Griffin. I think they kind of mixed Susan and her friend Maya up on accident. Susan was supposed to be the loner with glasses, and not exactly attractive. But Susan was very attractive in this movie. It was kind of hard to believe she couldn't get a boyfriend. Like someone said before, Tori and Bree were a split up of Betsie in the book, but I don't think Betsie was exactly that "I'm so cool" kind of girl in the book. The boys were portrayed great. Snobbish, not exactly serious.

A great movie to the book which I also recommend. This time I recommend the movie first. Than read the book. Either way, Mr. Griffin will die twice. 5 stars without a doubt.

UNEXPECTED SURPRISE
This NBC-TV movie surprised me. Writers Kathleen Rowell and Michael Angeli are very adept in creating both scenes and dialogue that seems realistic: the mousy girl who wants to be popular; the teens who find themselves Svengalied by a handsome rich boy; how a boy interferes in the relationship between two blossoming young women. And some really credible performances, mainly from Amy Jo Johnson, Scott Bairstow, and Mario Lopez.
Jay Thomas Mr. Griffin is a difficult character to empathize with, but in view of what teachers have to put up with in school, one can understand his cynicism. However, one cant' excuse his cruely in humiliating students in front of their classmates. He is also an extremist. But...he doesn't deserve what happens to him.
Bairstow as Mark gives us a teen of arrogant self-delusion; a narcisstic liar; and an obviously psychotic personality. Johnson and Michelle Williams are great in showing the special bond between two good friends.
There's not a lot of action in the movie, but it really doesn't need it; the key here is what happens when people's lives aren't important to the callow youths who can't accept the responsibility of their acts.
A sharp, tidy thriller. ... Read more

Reviews (197)

Dances with post-apocalyptic bandits
I finally caught this movie on cable television last night and described it to my husband as a science-fiction version of "Dances with Wolves." Interestingly, it was being shown as part of a week of Westerns, and basically that is what it is also. It's very long, just like Dances with Wolves, Waterworld and every book that David Brin (with whom I am acquainted) has ever written. So, if you enjoy long books and long movies, you're in luck. The movie is no classic, but it is nevertheless enjoyable and entertaining. Costner's acting is OK, Will Patton is a standard-evil-genius-villain-type, and Larenz Tate shines as Costner's sidekick. I think the premise is a worthy one, and even a believable one (if you find post-apocalypse believable to start with). The U.S. Postal Service is the one federal agency that everyone uses, that most appreciate (though they do gripe about it) and that was (I think) the first one founded. It has a simple, vital, helpful mission: to bind society together through communication. Therefore, it likely would be the first one restored, and Brin and Costner illuminate this premise capably.

POST-"apocolyptic"-MAN
It is difficult to review a film that you like, when every professional critic has slammed it. On the other hand, I have to believe I am not alone in my tastes, so, here is some praise for "The Postman", Kevin Costner's cinematic version of the great book of the same name, written by David Brin.

After the success of "Dances With Wolves", it's pretty clear that Costner has been trying to recapture that epic feeling. But where "Water World" was silly to the point of being a caricature of a sweeping drama, "The Postman" avoids the trap. The nemesis, General Bethlehem is played seriously by Will Patton and the situation in general is believable if not completely explained.

I admit there were a few moments that were too heavy handed, the most memorable when the Postman gallops back to snatch a letter from a boy's hand. Even so, I can forgive a little over enthusiasm when it is mixed with a stirring tale. I know that during times of war, rhetoric is grist for the mill and so, the character's obsession with the American way, is understandable, given that it no longer exists.

You see, civilisation has fallen. It's implied that nuclear weapons were used, perhaps even biological weapons. Whatever the cause, people survive precariously, huddled together in fortified towns dreading the next visit of the Holenist army. A band of thugs created during the last days of the war and now led by General Bethlehem towards some nebulous vision, who's only constant is that Bethlehem will be the one in power.

Enter stage left, an unlikely hero. Kevin Costner's character may have a name but it is not revealed during the film. At first he is known as Shakespeare because he is a wandering loner who is sometimes driven to produce one man, one mule, productions of the Bard in the hopes of winning a meal from his audience. His aimless existence is abruptly ended when he is roughly drafted into the Holenist army.

From the first he stands out from the crowd of beaten hopeless recruits and so is singled out for special torments and duties. The army life is brutal enough without having earned the enmity of your squad leader. One thing leads to another and escape presents itself for Shakespeare. Without food or any other protection he stumbles on the remains of an old mail van and spends a night huddled in its dubious warmth, kept company by the body of a US Postal worker.

Whether by chance, destiny or foresight, he dons the guise of a postman and scams his way into a local town. "The mailman's here. Lock up your dogs." So long starved of civilisation, the bedraggled townsmen clamour for news of the world, the government, the future. He has little choice but to answer their questions, with creative and plausible fictions. It is here that the wheels of fate start turning.

The idea he has created, of a new America, is too big for one man to control. The film takes us on a steamroller ride headed straight towards the Holenist army. People with hope demand action. The desire for action creates leaders. Leaders are often forced to carry out the will of the people despite a lack of talent, desire or knowledge.

In this case, a young man, self named Ford Lincoln Mercury, forces the Postman to become a symbol of civilisation and eventually the symbol of resistance. Ford's passion and his actions are resisted for a long time but eventually the Postman comes to share the myth. One man can stand up to tyranny, especially with the help of a few courageous friends and the trust of one strong willed woman.

Love this movie
Simply put, It should have won an oscar. Once you get past the slow start (which is necessary to explain the rest of the movie) it becomes so moving. Reminds me of the Pony Express...and our American determination to be free. Even more moving since 911.

Makes no sense
This movie made no sense to me. It seems like Costner tried to make a modern western and failed miserably. There are very few redeeming factors in this movie. I understand the concept behind it, but thought it was developed poorly. You can defenitly skip this movie and not worry too much about it.

Wow
I've always seen postmen as the unsung heroes of middle America. Finaly, a movie that pays the kinda respect that postal employees deserve. Costner does another wonderful performance in this future classic. Almost as good as waterworld! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Lonesome Dove - Tale of the Plains
While this video is not the same quality as the original movies, it is the TV series and get's much better as the series continues. I can only hope other episodes are made into videos...
I enjoyed the series, it is light entertainment...

Lonesome Dove - Tales of the Plains.
This is probably one of the worst western videos I have ever seen.The story is pathetic and the acting the same,the location did not seem authentic and was based in a very small area. It is very sad that creative people like Suzanne De Passe and Larry McMurtry can be connected to something as poor as this. There,is of course,no comparison with the rest of the Lonsome Dove Collection which were superb. I think the only way the above two people can make amends for this is to make an epic film of "Comanche Moon" with real top actors and so finish the Lonesome Dove Collection. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Another Great Adventure...................
In this movie Jack has gone back to San Francisco and his friend Henry is mining his claim and caring for White Fang.
This story is mixed with Native American spiritualality and mysticism. They are in need of the white wolf (White Fang, or is it Henry?) to lead them to the caribou they are in need of to prevent starvation among their people.
This sequel is very entertaining with beautiful scenery.
A great family film.

Disney made this up.
I've read White fang and there is no mention of Myth of a White Wolf. Disney had to have a sequel, so they made up this story.

Great Family Movie
I have watched this movie a number of times and still find the story to be interesting. The simplicity and predictability of this movie makes it a great movie for younger elementary children, but there is enough plot and action to keep the family entertained. I enjoy the Alaskan setting and the images of the Haida village. There is a love story woven in with the young hero's role of finding the caribou and saving the village, but neither plot goes into anything overly sentimental or complicated.

I have used this movie in a fourth grade classroom to have them identify the main characters, the setting, the problem(plot), and the solution: things that are found in any good story, be it written or in a movie. They enjoyed the movie and it worked well for the assignment. This is a great family movie because it contains these basic story elements and does it well, making it watchable again and again.

White Wolf
All I can say is that this was a brillent movie. I'm glad i saw the 2nd White Fang first. The first one was a big turn off to me. The story is about a young man who is having some dificultly understanding the native americans beliefs. With the Help of White fang a a native american girl Henry begins to understand thier ways, but he is soon to discover that the native Americans life is in danger and only he and white fang can save them.

A little to lovey-dovey
White Fang-- Story about a wolf dog taken from the north, trained to be sled dog, goes into fighting rings, finds love

White Fang2: Myth of the White Wolf-- Movie about the master of White Fang, and an indian girl. White Fang is around a little.

White Fang2 had little to nothing about our all time favorite wolf-dog White Fang. It is mainly about his master, falling in love. I kept waiting for at least one scene with White Fang! The first movie was more like it.

This was a little boring, I don't really recommend it unless you like a lot of boring flirty romance, and little wolf. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Eeek! Bugs!
Okay, so this wasn't the greatest film I've ever seen, but I didn't expect it to be. The editing seemed patchy to me, and the dialog got tedious at times. So why three stars? Well, sure it's loaded with clichés and plot holes, but the concept is pretty cool and seeing the monster(s) in action was fun -- very clever idea. Besides, half the fun of watching a cheesy horror film is in laughing at the inconsistencies -- for instance, it cracked me up to watch one of the actors very, very carefully remove a vial of nitroglycerin from its padded container, only to have the other actor (after carefully carefully closing the lid) toss it into the truck. Obviously, this is special horror film nitro, created to explode only in proximity to a monster.

I was particularly confused by one scene, which I am about to describe in detail, so if you want to watch the film, you might want to stop here.

Our Heroes are huddled around a dead tree, waiting for the Horrible Monster to appear. We hear it approaching, we see it (gasp! it's hideous!), it can't cross the barrier of gasoline Our Heroes created, but then it rears back and seems to fling killer ants OVER the barrier at Our Heroes! Yikes! Fade to black, cut to next scene as Our Heroes awaken, yawn, stretch, and everyone is fine. One of Our Heroes has even been sleeping while sprawled comfortably on the sand, away from the protection of the gasoline barrier. I was so confused that I watched the scene a couple more times. Where did the Horrible Monster go? What happened to the killer ants? Why the heck didn't the thing just step over the gasoline? Did it just run away? Perhaps the gesture that I interpreted as ant flinging was actually a fist shaking, "oh if I could get over there you'd be SO eaten alive" gesture of frustration. Ah, B-horror films, what would life be without you?

The Ants Go Marching...
This is a slick little film. The B-Movie plot is backed up by location shooting and some high-grade special effects.

Three prospectors are out in the Namib desert. They get an interesting reading that looks like a volcanic pipe but can't be. While there si no hope of diamonds, they still check it out. They find a large mound surrounded by poles, fetishes and other occult-looking warnings. They break open the mound, one is sucked in, and the rest are not heard from again.

Meanwhile the company they work for is having some hostile-environment-survival software trouble. The designer is sent against his will (he is a code man and not a field person). He soon finds himself dropped in the middle of nowhere by a cab.

We quickly meet the rest of the cast that includes a militant who seems only interested in being mean enough to be hazardous to the operation. The programmer also has a nifty new prototype device that can detect water from up to 100 feet away ("so will a good stick" declares the militant). The cast then sets out to find the missing guys from the movies opening and to deliver supplies to another facility.

Now that we have everyone alone in the desert, we can run into the title horror. When the missing men have been found they look to have been dead for far longer than they have. Then their bones are stolen. The nifty water detector seems to react to the creatures presence. It seems to be small things that pull together into a larger form around the bones they have stolen.

We later learn that the beasties seem to be ants and have been around and feared for a very long time. The original victims had disturbed their nest and their queen. They are now on the move to find a new safe location.

Many of the characters are very two-dimensional but that was expected. Some are typical in this sort of movie, like the programmer who may be brilliant in the computer lab, but is totally helpless in the field. We also have the tough truck driver and the take-charge female love-interest.

All in all it was a pretty well-done film with the plot being revealed steadily throughout the film. The creature(s) was(were) interesting although the ending could have used a little more explanation when the cab returns to the middle of nowhere. An original and fun movie.

Don't waste your time
In a nutshell, this was long, boring and just plain stupid. I kept waiting for the movie to get interesting... after a while, I was just plain waiting for it to be over. When you find out what the "Bone Snatcher" turns out to be, you're either going to be highly disappointed or die laughing hysterically. You're also going to be kicking yourself for wasting your time and money like I did.

Okay, but not scary
I thought from the reviews that this movie would be better than it was. It looks like a movie that was made for the Sci Fi Channel. It's okay if your flipping through channels for something to watch, but I wouldn't spend money on it. It's not scary or even tense. I think the person who wrote wow must have been in the movie or had a friend in it. I don't see anyway anyone could watch this movie and say wow. I try to see every horror film I can. I don't scare very easy, but I don't think even a child would be scared by this one.

WOW!
I picked up The Bone Snatcher on the cheap in a discount movie bin. Was I ever blown away! Sure the movie has its influences, but there are some original concepts and story going on here. Wonderfully filmed and scored with a fantastic ambient soundtrack, this is another one of those movies that plays it smart by building up the story, characters, and action instead of throwing constant mindless THINK FOR YOU action in your face. A good cast, with a careful use of CGI that is original and even remarkable. This is the best ant movie I know of. Brings me back to the well written ant movie PHASE 4 (1974). In fact, though these two movies are of a different nature and were written for viewing crowds of a different time period, they do compliment each other. The Bone Snatcher is a fine movie that has rewritten the ant invasion concept. Well done! ... Read more

Reviews (12)

i liked it
this movie was cool. all cause it gots some sort of smart elements in it. but others might think differently. i think that dominique swain was just really great, meredith monroe's cool--she doesn't say much in the movie, she does a lot of thinking---and mia kirshner's character is just all over the place. it's a cool flick. not bad to watch, hey it's better than terror toons!

Great movie to me
This movie is filled with most things that the real life college scene is all about, well except for the attempted murder part. However, that can happen, and that's what the movie is about. It stars Mia Kirshner as the poor girl who gets taken in by Meredith Monroe's character and her followers Rachel True and Dominique Swain. Even though there's lots of improvements needed for this movie, it's still a great movie to watch. It's just fun to watch. Recommend it if you're bored.

Taye Diggs Owns
New Best Friend is one of those films that grabs your attention and maintains your suspicion all the way through until the incredible ending. The screenwriting is nothing short of miraculous and Taye Diggs' ability to capture the role of the school detective is truly awe-inspiring. Why Diggs' wasn't up for an Oscar is beyond me and others of his extensive fanbase. If you want an example of acting at it's finest, tune into the scene featuring the drug dealer and witness the intesity Diggs' displays. While the rest of the acting is rather lackluster, Diggs' performance pinpoints him as the obvious catalyst of this marvel of the modern film making industry.

A great movie for a hot date!
A poor girl who falls in with rich girls suffers an overdose, and the local sheriff wannabe is brought in to investigate. The rich girls are young and very attractive, especially when they're partying in their spaghetti-strapped dresses. And the poor girl, played by Mia Kirschner, is no slouch in the looks department herself with her dark features and jet black hair.

Mia eventually ingratiates herself with all of the friends; smoking, drinking, and doing drugs - and sharing dark secrets - like when she and Dominique Swain discover that both of them had been molested by their fathers when they were ten-years-old, which causes them to bond by exploring each other's mouths with their tongues, pawing at each other's clothes, and then falling asleep in each other's arms soon afterwards.

Mia then uncovers that Rachel True, a gorgeous fair-skinned black girl, is bulimic; and Mia offers to help her quit when she's ready. Rachel is touched, but rather than make it with Mia, she shares a deep soul kiss with Ms. Swain to continue an on-going relationship with Dominique (who is bisexual).

Dominique is on a roll, but the only girl among her circle of friends she doesn't kiss is Meredith Monroe, who plays Hadley, the story's main character - and main suspect! Meredith looks a lot like Natasha Henstridge ('Ghosts of Mars'), so watching her is definitely easy on the eyes. The most risque thing she does in the movie, though, is get naked (from the back) with her boyfriend in bed. But her performance as a seemingly innocent and helpful best friend is excellent.

Besides Meredith, another fine appearance is made by Taye Diggs as this Southern college town's interim sheriff. He approaches his task with sensitivity and determination, and it is through his eyes - and the flashbacks that he's told - that we get to enjoy the girls' divulged sensuality.

Taye solves the crime, and one of the girls is brought to justice. She ends up behind bars at the movie's end - while we see Dominique, asleep and naked in bed - and lying between both her own boyfriend and another girl! (Gee, I don't remember college life to be this good!)

This movie is well produced - and well paced - and Dominique (who I loved in 'Lolita') is definitely fun to follow. This would be a great film to share on a really hot date. Enjoy!

Taye Diggs in a southern accent doesnt cut it
this movie is a great waste of time. with its annoying litle rich brat kids and one of them kills their new best friend and Diggs incestigates with the worst soutern accent in the world, plus he shouldnt of been in this whole mess. with a bitchy cast and a nowhere story, this'll please those people with less than zero brains ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Three cute boys, 'N' loads of cute animals!!
I think the title kind of explains it all really. Three guys going off into the wild of America, on a mission to find a cave filled with a thousand bears, although being told that they sleep alone, the boys don't believe anyone, find the cave, and have loads of adventures along the way!! Jonathan Taylor Thomas played a great part in this movie and he really narrated it well too! As I live in the UK, I was lucky enough to see it while I was in America, I'd always liked Jonathan and Devon's films, and this was another one I HAD TO HAVE!!! I would also say that this is a great film for all the family, only recently has it been released in the UK, but I bought it in America, luckily I have an international VCR. This film is way cool. I would really reccommend it.

It could have been better.
Wild America isn't that wild. It still has good story elements too it, but you feel cheated when you realize the kids in the movie didn't go anywhere but to a bunch of unknown areas. So much for going across America. The actors fit the movie perfectly. Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Devon Sawa, and Scott Bairstow seem to be enjoying their roles as the three boys who hit the road to film animals. The music is ok and the cinematography is wonderful. I wish they would have seen more animals. The movie made me smile throughout, but many aspects of the movie could have been better. Their trip across so called "America" could have been extented greatly and the mystery man should have been removed. He's just a waste of time and talent by Danny Glover. The DVD version has the widescreen aspect and the original trailer, plus a bunch of info on the movie. The Movie is rated PG for Profanity and violence, mainly. The swearing is totally pointless and if it were gone, would have made a better movie overall for kids. Watch at your own risk.

Great all round film!
I first saw this film in 1999 I loved it.The first thing that grabbed my attention was the 3 brothers and their relationship throughout the film and how it changes.The storyline with the youngest brother marshall was great.The film is like an adventure story,the type you would of loved to have gone on! Traveling,being young,free and inexperienced at almost everything.its a bit like a coming of age film,finding yourself etc.This all sounds heavy but its not,the film is filled with humour from the brothers and all the other characters,the animals are great and some even get in on the humour too.The music even grabs me,the whole thing is a feel good factor of a film,one I would recommend anyone watching of any age.

Not Bad
Okay so I wouldn't say this is the best movie I've ever seen. But I still really enjoyed it. I liked how they showed the relationship between the three brothers. Sure they picked on JTT but they still protected him especially Devon Sawa. He was more protective of him than Scott Bairstow. I liked the end and How JTT showed there father that they needed to find there own dream and the permission to follow them. So I'd reccomended it to Brothers and children 10 and Up. Sure The animals looked fake but It was still enjoyable.

An enjoyable, interesting plot with well-done acting
I haven't seen this movie too often, but I really enjoy it every time that I do. Why? Because it is full of fun, adventure and mild comedy. The acting is wonderful, all of the three boys are terrific. However, this isn't necessarily a movie for younger children-it is geared towards pre-teens and teenagers. There is obscenities, implications, and alcholol use that isn't right for everyone.
But, it is mad up for in the interesting plot. I don't know how much of this is true, but I enjoy it just the same. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Eeek! Bugs!
Okay, so this wasn't the greatest film I've ever seen, but I didn't expect it to be. The editing seemed patchy to me, and the dialog got tedious at times. So why three stars? Well, sure it's loaded with clichés and plot holes, but the concept is pretty cool and seeing the monster(s) in action was fun -- very clever idea. Besides, half the fun of watching a cheesy horror film is in laughing at the inconsistencies -- for instance, it cracked me up to watch one of the actors very, very carefully remove a vial of nitroglycerin from its padded container, only to have the other actor (after carefully carefully closing the lid) toss it into the truck. Obviously, this is special horror film nitro, created to explode only in proximity to a monster.

I was particularly confused by one scene, which I am about to describe in detail, so if you want to watch the film, you might want to stop here.

Our Heroes are huddled around a dead tree, waiting for the Horrible Monster to appear. We hear it approaching, we see it (gasp! it's hideous!), it can't cross the barrier of gasoline Our Heroes created, but then it rears back and seems to fling killer ants OVER the barrier at Our Heroes! Yikes! Fade to black, cut to next scene as Our Heroes awaken, yawn, stretch, and everyone is fine. One of Our Heroes has even been sleeping while sprawled comfortably on the sand, away from the protection of the gasoline barrier. I was so confused that I watched the scene a couple more times. Where did the Horrible Monster go? What happened to the killer ants? Why the heck didn't the thing just step over the gasoline? Did it just run away? Perhaps the gesture that I interpreted as ant flinging was actually a fist shaking, "oh if I could get over there you'd be SO eaten alive" gesture of frustration. Ah, B-horror films, what would life be without you?

The Ants Go Marching...
This is a slick little film. The B-Movie plot is backed up by location shooting and some high-grade special effects.

Three prospectors are out in the Namib desert. They get an interesting reading that looks like a volcanic pipe but can't be. While there si no hope of diamonds, they still check it out. They find a large mound surrounded by poles, fetishes and other occult-looking warnings. They break open the mound, one is sucked in, and the rest are not heard from again.

Meanwhile the company they work for is having some hostile-environment-survival software trouble. The designer is sent against his will (he is a code man and not a field person). He soon finds himself dropped in the middle of nowhere by a cab.

We quickly meet the rest of the cast that includes a militant who seems only interested in being mean enough to be hazardous to the operation. The programmer also has a nifty new prototype device that can detect water from up to 100 feet away ("so will a good stick" declares the militant). The cast then sets out to find the missing guys from the movies opening and to deliver supplies to another facility.

Now that we have everyone alone in the desert, we can run into the title horror. When the missing men have been found they look to have been dead for far longer than they have. Then their bones are stolen. The nifty water detector seems to react to the creatures presence. It seems to be small things that pull together into a larger form around the bones they have stolen.

We later learn that the beasties seem to be ants and have been around and feared for a very long time. The original victims had disturbed their nest and their queen. They are now on the move to find a new safe location.

Many of the characters are very two-dimensional but that was expected. Some are typical in this sort of movie, like the programmer who may be brilliant in the computer lab, but is totally helpless in the field. We also have the tough truck driver and the take-charge female love-interest.

All in all it was a pretty well-done film with the plot being revealed steadily throughout the film. The creature(s) was(were) interesting although the ending could have used a little more explanation when the cab returns to the middle of nowhere. An original and fun movie.

Don't waste your time
In a nutshell, this was long, boring and just plain stupid. I kept waiting for the movie to get interesting... after a while, I was just plain waiting for it to be over. When you find out what the "Bone Snatcher" turns out to be, you're either going to be highly disappointed or die laughing hysterically. You're also going to be kicking yourself for wasting your time and money like I did.

Okay, but not scary
I thought from the reviews that this movie would be better than it was. It looks like a movie that was made for the Sci Fi Channel. It's okay if your flipping through channels for something to watch, but I wouldn't spend money on it. It's not scary or even tense. I think the person who wrote wow must have been in the movie or had a friend in it. I don't see anyway anyone could watch this movie and say wow. I try to see every horror film I can. I don't scare very easy, but I don't think even a child would be scared by this one.

WOW!
I picked up The Bone Snatcher on the cheap in a discount movie bin. Was I ever blown away! Sure the movie has its influences, but there are some original concepts and story going on here. Wonderfully filmed and scored with a fantastic ambient soundtrack, this is another one of those movies that plays it smart by building up the story, characters, and action instead of throwing constant mindless THINK FOR YOU action in your face. A good cast, with a careful use of CGI that is original and even remarkable. This is the best ant movie I know of. Brings me back to the well written ant movie PHASE 4 (1974). In fact, though these two movies are of a different nature and were written for viewing crowds of a different time period, they do compliment each other. The Bone Snatcher is a fine movie that has rewritten the ant invasion concept. Well done! ... Read more

Reviews (197)

Dances with post-apocalyptic bandits
I finally caught this movie on cable television last night and described it to my husband as a science-fiction version of "Dances with Wolves." Interestingly, it was being shown as part of a week of Westerns, and basically that is what it is also. It's very long, just like Dances with Wolves, Waterworld and every book that David Brin (with whom I am acquainted) has ever written. So, if you enjoy long books and long movies, you're in luck. The movie is no classic, but it is nevertheless enjoyable and entertaining. Costner's acting is OK, Will Patton is a standard-evil-genius-villain-type, and Larenz Tate shines as Costner's sidekick. I think the premise is a worthy one, and even a believable one (if you find post-apocalypse believable to start with). The U.S. Postal Service is the one federal agency that everyone uses, that most appreciate (though they do gripe about it) and that was (I think) the first one founded. It has a simple, vital, helpful mission: to bind society together through communication. Therefore, it likely would be the first one restored, and Brin and Costner illuminate this premise capably.

POST-"apocolyptic"-MAN
It is difficult to review a film that you like, when every professional critic has slammed it. On the other hand, I have to believ